In Touch with Stowmarket December 2019 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

Craciun Fericit D S MEAD

ALL BUILDING, CAVITY WALL & LOFT INSULATION WORK UNDERTAKEN

30 years experience

Mubarak

Tel: 01449 745769 Mob: 07803 173000

Feliz Navidad

In Touch with Stowmarket

™©© ™

& Stowupland

Vol. 19 • Issue No. 2 • NOVEMBER 2013

Nollaig Shona D

Sung Tan Chuk Ha

Volume 25 • Issue No. 3 • RESIDENTS DECEMBER 2019 FREE to STOWMARKET & STOWUPLAND 50p where sold

uon Natale

Milad Mubarak

Merry Christmas

Fröhliche Weihnachten

Glaedelig Ju Gleðileg jól

Chuc Mung Giang Sinh

Rôômsaid Jôule

Boas Festas

Nollaig Shona Joyeux Noël Wesolych Swiat Sretan Bozic Merii Kurisumasu Zalig Kerstfeest

Lesimkha Gëzuar Krishlindjet

Zalig

EXPERIENCE CINEMA PICTURE QUALITY IN YOUR HOME. Tuned by Hollywood professionals, see all the dramatic highlights, shadows and breathtaking colour in incredible detail. Join us in store for a demo and experience OLED for yourself.

Stannards Ltd, Tavern street, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1PJ

Free car parking T: 01449 612077 Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re open late on Fridays - until 7pm 2

In Touch online:

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I’m going to return to a previous subject this month because it’s constantly on my mind. Every time I drive, every time I walk down a busy street or stand in a queue, and very occasionally at home, I’m struck by how impatient we have become. Almost everyone (and I include myself here) is so terribly busy, we seem to live our lives at a rate of knots. It’s utterly exhausting, but also brings less attractive qualities – such as insensitivity and selfishness – to the fore. This morning I witnessed three incidents of poor behaviour – one by a driver outside my son’s school, the second at the Co-op where a terribly important person huffed and puffed in obvious annoyance behind a lady who was struggling to find the correct coins to pay for her coffee, and the third at a pedestrian crossing when not one but two drivers ignored the couple waiting to cross. Not major incidents I know, and I don’t intend to draw major conclusions based on one bad morning, but am I the only one who thinks we have become a little less caring of others in our day-to-day lives? Often it’s the little things which make the difference, a polite wave when a driver gives way, a smile and a thank-you to a shop assistant, holding a shop or office door open, being a little kinder to a driver who may be unfamiliar with the road or just not as quick to react… My granddad was known to say, “Please and thank you will take you around the world”. It’s not entirely realistic, but the connotation is clear. Christmas can be a hectic time and the extra stress and expense may create additional frustrations when we’re out and about, but let’s resist the urge to snap back. What’s five minutes either way? You’ll get there in the end and do it without getting stressed or upsetting someone along the way. Kindness is a quality we all need to embrace a little bit more and it’s entirely free to give. Perhaps my granddad wasn’t so far off the mark after all. And on that note, my colleagues and I here at Mansion House Publishing wish you and yours the very best for the Christmas Season and the New Year.

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins T: 01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

ADVERTISING

T: 01473 400380 E: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk DISTRIBUTION

Tree Martin: 01473 400380 E: tree@intouchnews.co.uk PRINTING

ColourPlan Print: 01473 400379 E: steve@colourplan.co.uk Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Stowmarket & Stowupland is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the In Touch series of magazines.

In Touch Titles • S towmarket & Stowupland • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew • Melton & Woodbridge • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall & Warren Heath • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit • Needham Market & The Creetings •S hotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton & Woolverstone • Martlesham • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford & Stratford St Mary • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone & Washbrook • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead •W esterfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe

Wed 4 December is the advertising and editorial deadline for the January edition

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

NEWS STOWMARKET BELLS UPDATE Here is a beaming Josh Arbon handing over a cheque for £225 to Roy Pettitt for the Bells Project. This generous donation was made in memory of Josh’s grandfather, Mike Arbon, who passed away shortly before Josh’s birthday. Josh decided to collect donations in lieu of birthday presents. Many of you will recall Mike as a prominent member of the community who was active in fundraising for local good causes. Josh said: “I am very happy to have been able to donate money to an area that was incredibly close to my granddad’s heart.” A huge thank you to Josh and watch out for our Ding Dong Merrily on High tree at the Christmas Tree Festival in St Peter & St Mary’s Church.

STOWMARKET CHRISTMAS LECTURE The 2019 Christmas lecture is being held at St Peter and St Mary’s Church during Stowmarket Christmas Tree Festival. This was an idea of the late Mike Arbon and he had contacted writer and broadcaster Anne Atkins to come to Stowmarket. Anne is now booked and the title of her lecture is As Beautiful as You. This will be a celebration of difference and acceptance. Anne will be joined by her son Alexander and through an interview style format she will talk about Asperger’s syndrome, her latest novel, her son and why she chose an autistic hero for her novels. There will also be a Q&A session after the lecture and Anne’s books will be available to purchase. The lecture will be held at St Peter and St Mary’s Church on Thursday 12 December at 7.30pm and will cost £10 for adults. Light refreshments will be included in the price. The proceeds of this evening will go to Kagera, our link Church in Tanzania, which was very dear to Mike. Tickets are available from the church office, open weekdays from 10am to 1pm, or from: parish@btconnect.com / 01449 774652 Find out more about Kagera at: http://www.kageradiocese.info

FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN FOR THE BEREAVEMENT TRUST Two local mums will be running not one, but three marathons in seven weeks to raise vital fund for The Bereavement Trust. The charity provides a National Freephone Helpline, operating every evening of the year without exception. They provide a much-needed listening service to those who have been bereaved. To assist their fundraising efforts they will be holding a Christmas Fete on Saturday 7 December from 10am-noon at 1st Combs Scout HQ. Amongst other things there will be face painting, a raffle, a teddy tombola and a present wrapping service. They are also holding a festive baking competition with a category for both adults and children. Entries will be judged on the day by a panel and there will be prizes for the winners. We look forward to seeing (and tasting) your best festive themed bakes. Free parking is available at the venue. To follow their journey visit www.marathonmums.co.uk or drop them a line at: hello@marathonmums.co.uk

NEWS SANTA’S COMING TO STOWMARKET! With his helpers from Stowmarket Lions Club Santa has now given us his travel plans for December as below: Friday 22 November, 5.30-7pm

Stowmarket Lights Switch-On

Wednesday 27 November, 6.30-7pm

Combs Ford Lights Switch-On

Sunday 1 December from 4.30pm

Stowmarket, Lavenham Park

Monday 2 December from 6pm

Stowmarket, Combs Ford

Tuesday 3 December from 6pm

Stowmarket, Thirlmere & Treeview

Wednesday 4 December from 6pm

Stowmarket, Recreation Ground

Saturday 7 December, 9am-3pm

Stowmarket Town Centre

Sunday 8 December from 4.30pm

Stowmarket, Cedars Park South

Monday 9 December from 6pm

Stowmarket, Cedars Park Central

Tuesday 10 December from 6pm

Stowmarket, Cedars Park North

Wednesday 11 December from 6pm Onehouse Thursday 12 December from 6pm

Needham Market South

Saturday 14 December, 9am-3pm ASDA Sunday 15 December from 4.30pm

Needham Market North

Monday 16 December from 6pm

Stowmarket, Chilton Hall

Tuesday 17 December from 6pm

Stowmarket, Chilton Hall East

Wednesday 18 December from 6pm

Stowupland

Saturday 21 December from 9am-3pm ASDA Santa and Stowmarket Lions wish you all a very Merry Christmas. All proceeds to Lions’ Charities.

VOLUNTEER DAY SUCCESS

WETHERDEN FIREWORK DISPLAY Despite the weather doing its very best to disrupt this long established annual event, the Wetherden Firework and Bonfire display was as big, colourful and vibrant as ever with hundreds of visitors enjoying the spectacle and side shows. An hour before the gates opened it was a very different affair – rain slanting in almost horizontally, display team members, stall holders and fire builders huddled under gazebos wondering what kind of madness this was – the ground sodden, the fire a huge soggy mound and the rain dripping from the tents in bucket loads. However, there was a slight brightening in the southern sky and everyone held their nerve! The optimism was rewarded with a break in the torrential rain giving at least a chance for the display to go ahead. The evening wasn’t without hiccoughs though. The fire team had to work relentlessly. Having got the fire started, it really looked as if the soaking wet wood wasn’t going to play ball and was in serious danger of not properly igniting until the team got to work and finally the whole thing exploded into life. The fireworks team was equally challenged – a large number of the fuses had become damp and refused to light properly, requiring the fully qualified team to push their skills to the limit to ensure that the display was its usual spectacle. As well as the wonderful sight of the fire and fireworks, the whole event has other benefits – the Scouts ran a superbly organised burger and hot dog stall, the junior football team ran a busy glo-stick stall and The Chequers (Gt Blakenham) mobile bar did a roaring trade in mulled cider and wine. If you are a member of a local organisation and have an idea for a stall that doesn’t impinge on any of the existing ones, please don’t hesitate to contact the committee for next year. The committee would like to thank the generosity of those who gave freely to the bucket collection. However, there was a gap between the income and the cost of the event of about a £1,000. Hopefully visitors will bear this in mind when making their voluntary contributions next year. Unfortunately the firework company would not accept any of the out-of-date Euros, dog tag or golf markers that were so kindly donated! So many thanks to all – the amazing bonfire team who did such an amazing job, the Scouts, football club and Chequers for running their stalls so well in adverse conditions, the first aid team (happily redundant all evening), the firework display team, but mostly, to the wonderful crowd who turned out on such an inclement night to make the display the huge success it was.

Red Gables in Stowmarket held a Volunteer Day last month with more than 20 local organisations represented, including Age UK Suffolk, St Elizabeth Hospice, BSECV, The Mix, EACH, Suffolk Family Carers and the Museum of East Anglian Life. It was a great opportunity for potential volunteers to chat and find out about the organisations and the variety of volunteering opportunities available in the Stowmarket area. Amongst the visitors was Stowmarket Town Major, Paul Ekpenyong, who spent time speaking with the various organisations attending. He is pictured with Red Gables Manager Martyn Burnside and Sue Vincent. Feedback on the day from organisations and visitors was very positive. Since the event we know of at least four organisations who have signed up new volunteers with more in discussions with potential volunteers. The aim of the event was to encourage more people into volunteering and to support local organisations that rely on the work of volunteers to continue to offer their services. We are very pleased with the outcome of the event. The Volunteering Team at Red Gables Stowmarket are available every Thursday morning from 10.30am to 12.30pm at our drop-ins. Or email volunteering@redgables.org.uk if you have any queries about volunteering in your local area.

Bob Taylor Electrician is proud to sponsor Stowmarket Town Under-9 Youth team

In Touch online:

advertorial

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed

double glazing? If you act now you can avoid these problems. Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solutionâ&#x20AC;Ś Just replace the glass!! If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly

experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.

Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors. Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Andy Kerridge and he services the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, East Bergholt, Capel St Mary Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

NEWS FROM FLOOR-LESS TO FLAWLESS Battisford Village Hall celebrates £32K renovation Earlier this year, Battisford Village Hall benefited from new flooring – replacing rotten joists with a new surface and underfloor heating, new panelling and complete redecoration. The work was made possible by grants from Mid Suffolk District Council, Suffolk County Council, Battisford, Combs and Ringshall Parish Councils, Stowmarket Town Council, The Geoffrey Burton Trust and the National Lottery. The hall, in Straight Road, is already home to a number of local clubs and organisations, including Battisford Pre-school, the village snooker club, carpet bowls club, gardening club and yoga classes. The refurbishment means that now even more users can enjoy the modern facilities. A recent open day gave representatives from all the groups a chance to celebrate together with visitors from Battisford History Group, Battisford Parish Council and the local church. Mid Suffolk District Councillor Dan Pratt – ward councillor for Battisford and Ringshall – was also among the guests. Dean Williams (pictured on the right with Councillor Pratt), Chairman of the Battisford Village Hall Committee, said: “Everyone has worked so hard to ensure that our village hall remains at the heart of our community. On behalf of everyone who uses the hall, I’d like to thank all our supporters – in particular those organisations and individuals who helped us fund the work and to our local volunteers who put so much into keeping Battisford a busy and thriving rural village.” For enquiries/bookings contact: 01449 674852

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Friday, December 7, 10am-noon: Coffee and Networking Needham Market Community Centre, School Street, Needham Market Friday, December 13, noon: Christmas Lunch The Shepherd & Dog, Lower Road, Onehouse, Stowmarket IP14 3BX To book online follow the link at: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk/networking-events

bRAVO! THEATRE WORKSHOPS bRAVO! Theatre Workshops have been on stage at Ipswich Regent Theatre again, alongside nine other schools from around East Anglia. On Sunday 11 November, more than 300 children danced and sang the night away in a show which was a treat for the hundreds of spectators. These shows offer such an exciting opportunity for small groups to perform on a large stage in a venue that would otherwise be unavailable to them. It was a varied, high energy show from start to finish and the talent and hard work that everyone had put in was very clear to see. Forty-nine children from bRAVO! Upper School took part and will be performing the same two routines later this month at Sadlers Wells in London. bRAVO! Principal Anna Damigella said: “I’m so proud of everyone, my students have worked so hard and they danced their socks off, their performance was fantastic. I love to see them on stage enjoying the whole experience, well done to them and to all the other schools involved.”

DISTRICT COUNCILLOR REPORT: NOVEMBER 2019 Councillors Rachel Eburne and Keith Welham, Haughley, Wetherden and Stowupland Ward New Corporate Plan The Joint Strategic Plan (2016-2020) has been refreshed by the cabinet members of Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils. The new corporate plan includes both a vision and a mission statement and is summarised with a graphic representation. This was discussed at the October council meeting, where the Green Group proposed an amendment to include an all-encompassing theme of environmental sustainability which should underpin all activity within the council. This was rejected by the administration. Environment Task Group A cross party group of councillors from Babergh and Mid Suffolk Councils has now formed and agreed a programme of meetings to address the climate emergency and hopefully come up with some strategies for the councils to adopt in due course. Housing Mid Suffolk is planning to deliver two completely affordable housing developments on the middle school sites in Needham Market and Stowmarket. Both developments will include homes for affordable rent, social rent and shared ownership. Over the last four years Mid Suffolk has built and acquired enough homes to just about keep pace with the loss of properties to the Right to Buy Scheme.

December. MSDC will be sending out the Notice of Parliamentary Election on Friday 8 November, with a request that copies be displayed on parish noticeboards. The issue of the Notice of Election signals a pre-election period which restricts some activities. All MSDC council and cabinet meetings will be cancelled, as will overview and scrutiny committee meetings. Next meetings will be in January. More free swimming for youngsters MSDC will be running free swims over the Christmas holidays, from 20 December to 5 January inclusive, at Stowmarket and Stradbroke to help promote healthier and active lifestyles in the district. Joint Local Plan Officers are currently working through the submissions made to the Preferred Options (Regulation 18) Consultation. All submissions can be viewed on the MSDC website. The timescale for further steps in the process to adoption of a Joint Local Plan have not yet been confirmed. Planning Applications Land south of Gipping Road, Stowupland: This application is currently expected to be considered by committee on 11 December.

Neighbourhood Plans Both Thurston and Haughley Neighbourhood Plans have now been adopted by Mid Suffolk and form part of the district’s planning policy.

Pooles Farm, Stowupland: Conversion of Atcost Barn to dwelling – this is a new application. The proposal is similar to the earlier application which was approved.

General Election As you will be aware, a General Election has been called for Thursday 12

Keith Welham: keith.welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk Rachel Eburne: rachel.eburne@midsuffolk.gov.uk

In Touch online:

Make your house an Anglian home

Call now and discover our latest offers.

Contact your local sales consultant: Guus Hamel on

07766 100156 anglianhome.co.uk 1259

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

#26parks

Your New Lifestyle Awaits

Enjoy safe and stress-free senior living at Wixfield Park. A stunning new and exclusive development of eight homes within the picturesque Suffolk village of Great Bricett. 2 cou

rses

ÂŁ18 Call 01933 427 813 to book your park visit today.

.95

www.tingdene-parks.net

In Touch online:

NEWS SANTA AT HOME

THE REGAL IN DECEMBER

Get ready for a magical, unforgettable experience at the Museum of East Anglian Life this Christmas with Santa at Home on the weekends of 30 November and 1 December, 7 and 8 December, 14 and 15 December and 21, 22 and 23 December.

Christmas is finally upon us, which at the Regal means one thing… pantomime! Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society bring their new take on the classic Little Red Riding Hood to the theatre from December 3-8 and tickets will be in short supply so don’t leave it too late.

With a little bit of magic, Santa has transported his living room from his home in the North Pole to the museum, ready to meet children and hear their Christmas wishes. Meet Pudding, Santa’s top elf, and receive a special gift with a personalised experience for your child.

We very excited to have a midnight premiere of Star Wars: The Rise of Jedi, but don’t worry, we’ll also be screening it for the following two weeks at more sensible times!

There’s no queuing, book your timeslot and turn up ready to be whisked away to meet Santa. While in Abbot’s Hall you can have a go at hunting for the elves, or visit the Christmas trees as part of the Stowmarket Christmas Tree Festival. Children are £6 and you can add an additional child to the same timeslot for £4. Please answer the name and age questions so we can personalise the experience. Tickets are available from the museum shop or online at: www.eastanglianlife.org.uk/santaathome

THRIVE@THE MIX It’s so exciting to be a couple of months into a new school year. Over the last 12 months, Thrive@The Mix has provided more than 6,000 hours of support to young people from seven of our local secondary schools. Our passion is to enable young people to unlock their potential and build their best future. At The Mix we believe in young people, all young people, all the time. We believe they have immeasurable worth and are valuable, exceptional and unique. A typical day at Thrive might start with a growth mindset leadership challenge. This could involve exploring our strengths and potential through activities, working as a team to overcome a problem, reflecting on pushing ourselves out of the comfort zone or discussing how to regulate our emotions. Our young people work alongside local businesses in personalised projectbased learning to develop their skills, experience and leadership ability. Scorpion Martial Arts Academy is leading a second year of skills and mindset development with some of our young people, resulting in them achieving their yellow and orange belts. The Meadland’s Men’s Shed team have enabled some of our group to design and build a mud kitchen for Abbot’s Hall Primary School. Our students have learnt so much from these experiences – both practical and employability skills as well as developing their own personal skills and self-confidence. Feedback from one of our parents: “Thrive opened my son’s mind to possibilities – gave him the chance to try different vocations and develop new skills… Our family life is now so different. He is safe and settled, happier and more in control of himself. He has good plans for his future and a strong support network.” We love working alongside businesses in our community to support our young people to thrive – if you have any project ideas, skills you would be keen to share as a volunteer or questions about what we do – please get in touch.

Judy: Back by popular demand, legendary performer Judy Garland arrives in London in the winter of 1968 to perform a series of sold-out concerts. Le Mans ’66: Car designer Carroll Shelby and driver Ken Miles battle corporate interference, the laws of physics and their own personal demons to build a revolutionary race car for Ford and challenge Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. The Good Liar: Career con artist Roy Courtnay can hardly believe his luck when he meets well-to-do widow Betty McLeish online. As Betty opens her home and life to him, Roy is surprised to find himself caring about her, turning what should be a cutand-dry swindle into the most treacherous tightrope walk of his life. The Aeronauts: Pilot Amelia Wren and scientist James Glaisher find themselves in an epic fight for survival while attempting to make discoveries in a gas balloon. Midway: US soldiers and pilots help change the course of the Second World War during the Battle of Midway in June 1942. The US and Imperial Japanese naval forces fought for four days. Frozen 2: Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven leave Arendelle to travel to an ancient, autumn-bound forest of an enchanted land. They set out to find the origin of Elsa’s powers in order to save their kingdom. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker: The surviving Resistance faces the First Order once more in the final chapter of the Skywalker saga. The Addams Family: An animated version of Charles Addams’ series of cartoons about a peculiar, ghoulish family. We’re very pleased to be welcoming back Neil Sands with his Christmas Memories show and the ELO Experience are joining us for their third visit. We’d like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

THE JUBILEE LADIES CHOIR Join the choir for our Christmas Concert on Tuesday 10 December at 7.30pm at the United Reformed Church, Stowmarket. Entry will be free. There will be a retiring collection for our chosen charities – Parkinson’s UK and Crohn’s & Colitis UK. There will also be a raffle and light refreshments. Follow the choir on Facebook.

To find out more, look up Thrive on The Mix website or contact at: kirstie. land@themixstowmarket.co.uk

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

Providing Health Care to the Community for over 35 years.

Are you in pain? Chiropractic may help with many problems including lower back pain, neck pain and related headaches as well as arm and leg pain.

STOWMARKET CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CLINIC

Michael T E Bailey Doctor of Chiropractic Registered with the General Chiropractic Council

7 Stowupland Rd Stowmarket IP14 5AG

Tel/Fax 01449 612620 www.michaelbailey.net

In Touch online:

NEWS CRUSHING THE MYTHS OF ICE! One of the most common questions asked in clinic is whether to apply ice or heat to an injury. In the first 24-36 hours after injury you definitely don’t want to be using heat, as that can increase bleeding and inflammation. In that first 24-36 hours we want to cool the area. Out comes the bag of frozen peas then! Ever thought about how they help? Is there a more effective way of applying ice, how long should we leave it on and does ice reduce swelling and pain? Well let’s crush some myths about applying ice, or cryotherapy as it’s otherwise known. Starting with the widely accepted concept that ice reduces swelling; to achieve reduction in swelling, the injured tissue temperature needs to be lowered to 5-15 degrees Celsius. Achieving this temperature significantly decreases cell activity, thereby reducing swelling in the injured area. However, factors such as depth of the injured tissue, the amount of body fat (fat has excellent insulating properties) and the length of time ice is applied affects how quickly such a desired temperature can be achieved if at all possible. It is worth pointing out that there is good evidence suggesting ice does not directly reduce swelling. In fact, reduced swelling is a secondary effect of ice application as people are able to move better as a result of less pain which moves more fluid from an injured area. Not all ice packs are created equal. The real benefit of applying ice is to reduce nerve conduction velocity, which reduces the rate nerves send threat messages about an injury to the brain. To achieve this, surface skin temperature needs to be 10 degrees. Crushed ice wrapped in a bag and applied directly to the area of injury will reduce the surface skin temperature to 10 degrees in about five minutes, allowing early mobility and reduced pain. Other types of icing, for example gel packs or frozen peas, do not get the skin temperature lower than 13 degrees, which unfortunately is not low enough to be optimal. Applying any form of padding, for example bandages and dry towels, is ineffective. There is thinking that applying padding will protect the skin from frostbite/ice injury, however dozens of studies involving direct application of ice without padding recorded no skin injuries. Injuries are more likely to occur when ice is applied for over 60 minutes at a time or in instances where people fall asleep. So five minutes at a time ever half an hour should be nice and safe. With that said, ice application is not recommended for anyone with cold allergy or certain cold hypersensitivity conditions like Raynaud’s disease and hemoglobulinemia. Also ice should not be applied over an area with impaired circulation, active deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or near a chronic wound. So after injury, crushed ice in a plastic bag quickly applied directly to the skin for five minutes is the best way to apply ice. Ice gels and frozen peas are great if the main aim is to avoid the mess of cleaning up slippery pools of water all over the floor! If you want to be a little safer, cover whatever cooling you are using in damp cloth. Sylvester Dengzee MSc MCSP HCPC Senior Physiotherapist PhysioFixx Physiotherapy Clinic

STOWMARKET CONCERT BAND This has been another successful year for the band with over 30 bookings for our various ensembles playing at a wide variety of events. Our dectet have performed at their own events, our training band held their own concert and our main band performed around the county, including the reforming of our Oompah Nights. Please see our website for full event listings; there are 12 more events this year. We are now looking forward to a range of Remembrance and Christmas events culminating in our own Festive Brass concert at Stowmarket’s URC on 14 December at 7.30pm. This is always a great night, peeking back at favourites from the year and getting you in the Christmas mood with some cracking festive selections. Tickets are just £6/£3 and are now available from members or by contacting us at: info@StowmarketConcertBand.org.uk / 07527 901746 We are currently open to recruit the next batch of trainees. Our trainees have the benefit of a number of our main band members being available to lead the training band, as well as group and one-to-one tuition and preparation for music exams if desired. A number of our trainees have also graduated to the main band. If you would like to learn a brass instrument, or look to continue or revitalise an old interest, please do contact us. Next year is already warming up for us with a number of bookings confirmed. A particular one to watch out for is our VE Day Concert in Stowmarket on May 2, jointly performed with the Wattisham Military Wives Choir, and all in aid of the Royal British Legion. If you would like to book a group for 2019 please do contact us as soon as possible to secure your space in our calendar.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS AT OLD NEWTON METHODIST CHURCH CHRISTMAS CAFÉ CHRUCH

Sunday 15 December at 10.45am Coffee and nibbles on the go from 10.15am A different, informal way of celebrating Christmas CHRISTMAS COFFEE MORNING

Tuesday 17 December at 10.45am Meet up with old and new friends in a Christmassy atmosphere with festive refreshments CAROLS & CANDLES

Sunday 22 December at 6.30pm A celebration of our Lord’s Nativity in poetry and prose, story and song in our beautifully decorated and candlelit chapel, followed by a Christmas Finger Buffet Supper Old Newton Methodist Church, 66 Chapel Road, Old Newton, Stowmarket IP14 4PP

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

OUT & ABOUT NEEDHAM MARKET SOCIETY Our meetings are held once every two months in the Burton Room at Needham Market Community Centre’s at 7.30pm. Annual membership is £7.50, but visitors are always welcome for a fee of £3.

STOWMARKET CRAFT MARKET The weather didn’t favour us in November and unfortunately the downpour caused quite a bit of chaos. However, we carried on regardless. Just 17 days prior to this event I gave birth to a beautiful little girl, so a bit of rain wasn’t going to put us off. With 20 amazing stalls, we had our busiest month ever and offered a fantastic range to customers. If you braved the weather I’m sure you wouldn’t have been disappointed. Every year the Scouts fundraising committee donate what they raise during the November market and this year they managed to raise more than £100 for the British Legion, which was amazing considering the awful weather! Thank you to those that came and supported our event and weren’t put off by the weather. Also it cannot go unmentioned that we wished one of our longest running stallholders a happy 80th birthday! We made sure didn’t go forgotten and a little sing song was rightly had! Happy birthday Jill from all of us at Stowmarket Craft Market! Our next market will be the last opportunity to visit us this year. Once again we will be open for the extended hour to give you one last opportunity to visit and find that perfect item or gift. All of our stallholders offer unique items you won’t find in any high street store, handmade and crafted by local people. We have knitted and crocheted items, an array of textile stalls from clothes to table clothes and pillows to bags, turned and laser cut wooden items, macrame creations, upcycled items and gluten and dairy free food options too. Metalwork, candles and so much more! The perfect gift is waiting. Open to the public from 10am-2.30pm on Saturday 7 December, located in Stowmarket Scout Centre, Milton Road, IP14 IEX. (past/behind the library on Church walk). Our Facebook page is a great place to get information about stallholders, directions and upcoming events. Search for Stowmarket Craft Market. For more information please contact Sherilee Hawkins: stowmarketartisanmarket@gmail.com

The committee has taken an active part during the year in contributing to town matters relevant to the aims of the society in protecting the character and architectural unity of the town. In addition, 2019 has been a busy year for the committee who always enjoy the pleasant task of putting together the programme of meetings and events which our increasing membership appears to appreciate. Over the year we have covered archaeology, traditional Morris dancing, hat making in Needham Market and a couple of Suffolk murder mysteries. In addition, a visit by more than 20 members to see the glorious roof of Huntingfield Church was a wonderful experience. We now look forward to our first 2020 meeting on January 22 when our old friend Roy Tricker will regale us with stories of Suffolk’s eccentric clergy. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! For further details, please phone Andrea: 01449 721056

STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Sunday 1 December: 5 or 10 mile walk from Needham Market for lunch at Abbotts Hall in the Museum of East Anglian Life. Park and meet at Needham Market Railway Station at 10am / GR. TM 091548. Return by 12.20 or 14.20pm train from Stowmarket or walk back. Leader: 07800 847709 Sunday 8 December: 4.5 mile circular walk at Nacton and Levington. Park and meet at Nacton Picnic Site at 10am / GR. TM 220392. Leader: 07736 573243 Sunday 15 December: Short walk from Cedars Hotel, Stowmarket. Park and meet at The Cedars at 10am / GR. TM 057577. Leader: 07519 164931 Sunday 22 December: 5.5 mile walk in the Sutton Hoo area. Park initially at Melton Picnic Site at 10.30am / GR. TM 287505. Leader: 01473 717239 Sunday 29 December: 5 mile circular walk at Needham Market. Park and meet at Needham Market Railway Station at 10.30am / GR. TM 091548. Leader: 01449 771724

STOWMARKET LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Monday 16 December: A play Wot Annette Wrote Performed by the committee, this is a comical play based on a theme chosen by Annette and acted by us. Our amateur status and inability to learn the lines in time are likely to makes it even funnier. The play will be followed by our usual Christmas refreshments, when we ask that those attending bring a small plate of food to share. Monday 20 January: The History of a Finborough Road House by Geoff and Jill Marchant Meetings are held at 7.30pm at Hillside Community Centre, Stowmarket IP14 2BD. Members £1, non-members £3.30. For further details contact Jeannette Baldry: 01449 675271 www.stowmarket-history.co.uk

March Accounting & Taxation Services Ian Coombes FCCA MBA

• FREE initial consultation to discuss any tax, accounting and general business issues • Payroll, Auto Enrolment,VAT, Self Assessment, and full accounting service • Personable and professional tailored support • Fees agreed in advance • Out of ofﬁce hours service available Individuals, self employed and limited companies

Please call Ian on: 01449 740285 / 07939 837939 E: ian@marchconsultingltd.co.uk

ALLERGY THERAPIST at Woolpit

(Brickfields Business Park) Testing for food, environmental and chemical sensitivities – as well which can cause unpleasant symptoms and illnesses.

For an appointment contact Helen Parsons Dip Allergy Therapy, Food Studies Cert.Ed, B.I.A.E.T.

Tel: 01531 670746

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday 4 December: Round Tower Churches of Suffolk and Norfolk by Stuart Bowell There are a variety of theories as to why some churches have round towers, but it is known that these are very early structures, some predating the Norman conquest. The vast majority of these towers are found in Suffolk and Norfolk. Stuart is a member of the Round Tower Church Society. There will also be a fundraising treasure hunt and seasonal fare.

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB We don’t hold a meeting in December, but will enjoy our Christmas celebrations at Stowmarket Golf Club instead.

The next meeting will be on Wednesday 5 February when David Lilley will talk about Stowmarket Operatic and Dramatic Society. We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ. There is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available. Admission is £1 for members and £3 for non-members. For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386

SUSTAINABLE FESTIVE SPIRIT AT ORCHARD BARN The festive time of year is renowned for massive amounts of waste, whether it’s excessive packaging, plastic decorations or unloved gifts that never get used. Our ancestors didn’t do things this way and we don’t have to either. As part of our recent green woodworking course, volunteers have been learning skills to create beautiful items that can be gifted to their loved ones, or sold to someone else who appreciates the love and care that goes into making one-of-a-kind gifts that combine beauty and functionality. Several of our volunteers have been making spoons, bowls, dibbers, benches, plant labels, mallets and more from locally sourced wood, some of which has been given to us to sell in order to benefit the ongoing environmental education at Orchard Barn. We aim to guide visitors, volunteers and trainees to reduce their carbon footprint one step at a time to live more sustainable lives. Buying a handmade gift, made from truly sustainable, zero waste materials is our idea of festive spirit, alternatively you could give the gift of learning a skill with a voucher towards one of our courses, a great way to encourage sustainability. If you’d like to find out how you can get involved and make or buy a handmade gift at Orchard Barn, visit our website or drop in between 10am and 4pm on a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or whenever our gate is open (IP14 2LY). www.orchardbarn.org.uk

STOWMARKET WILDLIFE GROUP The Stowmarket group meetings in 2019 covered a very diverse range of subjects centred on the plants and animals of Suffolk. The speakers were informative and often amusing, revealing much about what goes on around us, which is so often unnoticed. Atendance was good, and one attracted the biggest audience since the group was established. The wildlife walks were also popular and most enjoyable. The programme of events for 2020 is established, and starts after the Christmas and New Year break. Brocks and Foulmarts, an illustrated talk with Darren Tansley Wednesday 26 February, 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall Darren, an Essex Wildlife Trust River Catchment Coordinator, will talk to us about the changing fortunes of these animals from the 1500s to the present day, their folklore, ecology and prey. From tiny weasel to elegant pine marten he will uncover fascinating facts and new discoveries. Admission is £2.50, children free. Please pay on arrival. Hearing loop available on request. Hedgerows, Herbs and Medicines, an illustrated talk with Martin Sanford Wednesday 29 April, 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall. A look at some common plants of Suffolk hedges and waysides, their use for foods and medicine and how we use them sustainably. John Thompson 01449 676471 / swtstowmarket@gmail.com

FATHER CHRISTMAS AND GDPR Father Christmas was confused, But then it didn’t take much. “I really can’t understand this GDPR business, and all that,” he said to no-one in particular. “What am I supposed to do about it?”

“So, when you receive all of the letters from the children requesting what they would like for Christmas, you will need to keep all of their data safe and store it in a proper way – not just leave it on your desk in a big heap like you normally do for everyone to read!”

“Why?” said Mrs Christmas, who happened to be listening. “What is the problem? I thought it was all fairly straightforward?”

At last, Father Christmas finally understood what GDPR meant and what he had to do. Now, in addition to their presents, every child can look forward to receiving a privacy notice setting out all of their rights and how the data from their letters will be stored!

“Well, it really is confusing,” said Father Christmas. “I mean, surely GDPR stands for Gnome Delivered Present Requests, and everybody knows that elves are my assistants, not gnomes!” “Are you being serious?” said a rather taken aback Mrs Christmas, not really believing what she was hearing. “I am,” said a defiant Father Christmas. “You would think they would be able to get a simple thing like that right!” Mrs Christmas took a deep breath and got ready to explain. “That isn’t what it means at all,” she said in her most patient voice. She then went through, in quite simple terms, what it actually meant, and how Father Christmas needed to make sure that any data he received is dealt with in the proper way.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

Gudgeons Prentice would like to wish all of our clients and the people we work with a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Buttermarket, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ED Telephone: 01449 613101 • Fax: 01449 615087 Email: info@gudgeons-prentice.co.uk

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET CHORALE

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT MONDAY CLUB

At the end of November, Stowmarket Chorale performed their Christmas concert at the United Reformed Church, excerpts from J.S. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, and it was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone, and a great start to the Christmas season. During December, the choir will be singing carols at the Icanho Centre in Stowmarket and holding a sponsored carol sing to boost choir funds.

We are now looking forward to Christmas with various activities planned. We will have an evening making Christmas decorations and this year we are making snowmen. On another evening we will be making Christmas cards so on both evenings members will have something to take home with them.

Looking forward, the choir have planned an exciting programme to keep them busy. They have arranged a Singing Day in Woolpit Village Hall on February 8 when members and other singers will sing Verdi’s Requiem. That promises to be an amazing experience and will begin to prepare the choir for their appearance at The Apex in 2021. Stowmarket Chorale has stepped up their advertising and promotion efforts, which is paying off because the choir continues to grow with new members and ticket sales are better than ever. The choir has a website and a Facebook page. Choirs are gaining in popularity due to the knowledge that singing is said to be hugely beneficial for many reasons, including the feel-good factor of taking part and creating something beautiful with a group of like-minded people. This fortunate choir will enjoy learning the music of Faure’s Requiem in the spring term, which they will perform in Stowmarket on 21 March 2020. Future concerts include Will Todd’s Mass in Blue and Handel’s Messiah. For further information contact secretary@stowmarketchorale.org.uk

The highlight will be our Christmas party with music supplied by Yesterday. This is our main Christmas event, but we will also have a Christmas evening with music, games and refreshments. A visit to Ipswich is being organised to see Aladdin at the New Wolsey Theatre on February 1 next year. We are a club for adults with learning difficulties and meet each Monday from 7.30-9.30pm at the Community Hub in Crown Street, Stowmarket. We are run entirely by volunteers and new members and helpers are always very welcome. If you would like further information, please contact Lilian Fidler on 01449 672123 or just come along on a Monday evening.

STOWMARKET SUGARCRAFT CLUB Our November meeting was well attended dispute the awful weather. Our demonstrator was Glenda, our chairlady. Her subject was Iced Biscuits for Christmas, but was in fact a sneaky way to get the members using royal icing.

www.stowmarketchorale.org.uk

Using a whole array of royal icing techniques, we saw how to create biscuits looking like holly and berries, poinsettia flowers, pine cones, robins, bows, stars and baubles. Once we had seen how to do the biscuits, Glenda produced a biscuit base and arranged the iced biscuits into a Christmas wreath.

1ST MID SUFFOLK BOYS’ BRIGADE AND GIRLS ASSOCIATION

A different demonstration from our usual topics, but enjoyed very much by our members.

We have had a great start to the year with the cream tea we hosted in October a definite highlight. The children baked delicious scones which were served to our guests on beautiful vintage china. Thank you to Green Farm Vintage China Hire who supplied everything we needed, from teapots to glassware for the jam and cream, free of charge. This means every penny of the £161 we made will go into funding activities for the children. We now look forward to Christmas and have lots planned for the Combs Ford Light Switch-on event at the BB Hall on Combs Lane on 27 November. We meet on Wednesday evenings for ages five to 18 and currently have spaces; if you are interested in joining email: bb1stmidsuffolk@yahoo.co.uk

Our meeting in December will be our Christmas party which means we’ll have a really enjoyable evening; you can’t go wrong with good food and company.

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB Monday 9 December: Ray Giffin Trophy (Wildlife) / Judge: Nigel Rea Monday 13 January: Inspiration by Tony Bramley Wednesday 29 January: Tripod Competition v Framlingham & Wymondham / Judge: Harold Mousley LRPS AFIAP. At Stowupland Village Hall, 3 Church Road, Stowupland IP14 4BG. New members are always very welcome. You don’t have to be an expert photographer; all you need is a camera and a real interest in using it. Regular meetings are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, usually on the second and fourth Monday of the month between September and June. We start arriving at around 7pm for a 7.30pm start. We’d love to see you there, so why not join us? www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net

Take the right direction with expert financial advice I provide a comprehensive wealth management service, offering specialist face-to-face advice tailored to you. My services include: • Investment Planning • Retirement Planning

• Inheritance Tax Planning • Intergenerational Planning

For further details please contact:

Amanda Dossett T: 01449 768768 | M: 07808 549876 E: amanda.dossett@sjpp.co.uk W: www.amandadossett.co.uk H2SJP31532 04/19

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

STOWMARKET CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 2019 This year there will be over 450 fantastic Christmas trees on display throughout the Christmas Tree Festival in Stowmarket Town Centre. They are decorated by local groups and businesses as well as individuals. It It is is aa community community event event by by the the community community for for the the community community so so please please do do have have aa look look and and be be amazed. amazed. There There is is no no entrance entrance charge charge although although donations donations are are encouraged. encouraged.

DATE

ST PETER & ST MARY’S ST PETER ST MARY’S PARISH&CHURCH

PARISH CHURCH

Refreshments available when the church Refreshments available when the church is open to see the Christmas Trees

ABBOT’S HALL HALL ATABBOT’S THE MUSEUM AT THE MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE

OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE

is open to see the Christmas Trees

Sat 30 Nov

10am-4pm: Open to see the trees

Sat 30 Nov

10am-4pm: Open to see the trees

10am-4pm: Open to see the trees, museum 10am-4pm: Open to see exhibitions, Santa at Home, the trees, museum family trails Santa and activities. exhibitions, at Home,

STOWMARKET STOWMARKET LIBRARY

Open toLIBRARY see the Christmas Openand to see Trees usethe theChristmas library on Trees and where use thetimes library on the days are listed. the daysCoffee whereavailable. times are

listed. Coffee available. 8.30am-4pm

8.30am-4pm

Sun 1 Dec

Mon 2 Dec

Mon 2 Dec Tue 3 Dec

Tue 3 Dec

Wed 4 Dec

Wed Thurs45Dec Dec Thurs 5 Dec Fri 6 Dec Sat 7 Dec

Fri 6 Dec

Sun 8 Dec

Sat 7 Dec Mon 9 Dec

Sun 8 Dec

Tue 10 Dec

Mon Wed 9 11Dec Dec Tue 10 Dec Wed 11 Dec

9am: Communion Service 10.45am: Family Service 9am: Communion Service 12.30-4pm: Open to see the trees 10.45am: Family Service 6pm Stowmarket Churches Together 12.30-4pm: to see the trees Advent CarolOpen Service 6pm Stowmarket Churches 10an-4pm: Open to see the Together trees Advent Carol Park Service 6pm: Cedars & Combs Ford 10an-4pm: Open to see the trees Primary Schools 6pm: CedarsOpen Park & 10am-4pm: toCombs see theFord trees 6pm: Chilton & Wood Ley Primary Primary Schools Schools 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees

6pm: Chilton & Wood Ley Primary Schools

10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 6pm: Abbots Hall Primary School and Stowmarket Concert Band 10am-4pm: 10am-4pm: Open Open to to see see the the trees trees 6pm: Hall Primary Noon:Abbots Communion ServiceSchool in the and Stowmarket Concert Bandaccess to see Memorial Chapel (limited 10am-4pm: the trees) Open to see the trees 6pm: Trinity CEVA and Creeting Noon: Communion Service in theSt Mary CEVAChapel Primary Schools Memorial (limited access to see School children in church until 11am the trees) 11am-4pm: see the trees 6pm: TrinityOpen CEVA to and Creeting St 10am-4pm: Open toSchools see the trees Mary CEVA Primary 7pm: Brass Christmas SchoolSimply children in church untilConcert 11am 9am; Communion Service 11am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10.45am: Family Communion Service 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 12.30-4pm: Open to see the trees 7pm: Simply Brass Christmas Concert School Concert until 11.30am 9am; Communion Service 11.30am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10.45am: Family Communion Service School Concert until 11.30am 12.30-4pm: Open to see thethe trees 11.30am-4pm: Open to see trees School Concert until 11.30am 9.30am-1pm & 3-4pm: Open to see the 11.30am-4pm: Christmas TreesOpen to see the trees School Concert until 11.30am Little Fishes Carol Service at 10am with 11.30am-4pm: Open to see theSchool trees limited access to see the trees. Concert 1-3pm. Refreshments 9.30am-1pm & 3-4pm: Open toserved. see the

Christmas Trees Little Fishes Carol Service at 10am with limited access to see the trees. School Concert 1-3pm. Refreshments served.

www.eastanglianlife.org.uk 10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov

10am-4pm: Open to see the Christmas Trees, museum exhibitions, family 10am-4pm: Open to see trails and activities. the Christmas Trees,

RED GABLES The grounds are open all The daygrounds to visit are andopen enjoyall daydecorated to visit and enjoy the trees and the gardens. the decorated trees and

the gardens.

If visiting after dark, please bring a torch. If visiting after dark,

please bring a torch.

The decorative lights will be turned off mid-evening.

family trails and activities.

For information or to book Santa at Home visit: For information or to book www.eastanglianlife.org.uk Santa at Home visit: 10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov

RED GABLES

10am-4pm

8.30am-6.45pm

museum exhibitions, family For or to book trailsinformation and activities. Santa at Home visit: www.eastanglianlife.org.uk For information or to book 10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

Santa at Home visit: www.eastanglianlife.org.uk 10am-4pm: 10am-4pm: See See Tue Tue 3 3 Dec Dec

8.30am-5.45pm

8.30am-5.45pm 8.30am-5.45pm

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

8.30am-5.45pm

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

8.30am-6.30pm

10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov

8.30am-4pm

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

8.30am-6.30pm

10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov

8.30am-4pm

10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov

10am-4pm

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

8.30am-6.45pm

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

8.30am-5.45pm

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

8.30am-6.45pm

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

8.30am-5.45pm

10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov

10am-4pm

In Touch online:

STOWMARKET CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 2019 DATE

ST PETER & ST MARY’S PARISH CHURCH Refreshments available when the church is open to see the Christmas Trees

Thurs 12 Dec

Fri 13 Dec Sat 14 Dec Sun 15 Dec

Mon 16 Dec Tue 17 Dec Wed 18 Dec Thurs 19 Dec

Fri 20 Dec Sat 21 Dec Sun 22 Dec

Mon 23 Dec Tue 24 Dec Christmas Eve

Wed 25 Dec Christmas Day Thurs 26 Dec Fri 27 Dec Sat 28 Dec Sun 29 Dec

Mon 30 Dec Tue 31 Dec Thurs 2 Jan Fri 3 Jan Sat 4 Jan

10am-4pm: Open to see the trees Noon: Communion Service in the Memorial Chapel (limited access to see the trees). 7.30pm: East of England Co-op Funeral Services Christmas Carol Service 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-12.30pm & 3-4pm: Open to see the Christmas Trees 9am: Communion Service 10.45am: Morning Worship 12.30-4pm: Open to see the trees 4pm: Christingle Service 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees Noon: Communion Service in the Memorial Chapel (limited access to see the trees) 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 9am: Communion Service 10am: Family Communion Service 12.30-4pm: Open to see the trees 6pm: Town Carol Service, collection to the Mayor’s chosen charities. Refreshments provided by Stowmarket Town Council. 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 6pm: Crib Service 11.30pm: Midnight Communion Service 10am: Christmas Family Communion Service See website for opening times or phone: 01449 678623 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 9am: Communion Service 10.45am: Communion Service 12.30-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees 10am-4pm: Open to see the trees

ABBOT’S HALL AT THE MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

STOWMARKET LIBRARY

Open to see the Christmas Trees and use the library on the days where times are listed. Coffee available.

8.30am-5.45pm

RED GABLES The grounds are open all day to visit and enjoy the decorated trees and the gardens. If visiting after dark, please bring a torch. The decorative lights will be turned off mid-evening.

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec 10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov

8.30am-6.30pm 8.30am-4pm

10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov

10am-4pm

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec 10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec 10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec

8.30am-6.45pm 8.30am-5.45pm. 8.30am-5.45pm

10am-4pm: See Tue 3 Dec 10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov 10am-4pm: See Sat 30 Nov

8.30am-6.30pm 8.30am-4pm 10am-1pm

8.30am-6.30pm 8.30am-4pm 10am-4pm

8.30am-4pm 8.30am-5.45pm 8.30am-6.30pm 8.30am-4pm

If you are inspired by the Christmas Tree Festival or Christmas Trees in general, we would love you to put your thoughts into a story, poem or prose, or draw or paint a picture. We are planning to publish the best. Hand your work in at the library, the church or the museum. For the latest information and opening times visit www.stowmarketparishchurch.co.uk or phone 01449 774652/678623

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT At the time of writing, a number of Remembrance Commemoration events have taken place including the Poppy Appeal launch at Stowmarket United Reform Church, the Armistice Dinner at the RBL Club and the Festival of Remembrance at the Salvation Army Citadel in Violet Hill Road. All events were well attended and enjoyed by everyone. The Poppy Appeal was launched by Beth Willis, a veteran and an ambassador for the Royal British Legion. The annual Armistice Dinner was attended by over 40 people. The Festival of Remembrance was held on Saturday 9 November in the presence of the Festival Patron, Stowmarket Town Mayor, Councillor Paul Ekpenyong, and it proved to be a great afternoon with superb entertainment provided by Cara Lee School of Dance, all very talented young people, followed by The Stowmarket Concert Band who, once again, provided an excellent set. The Service of Remembrance, led by the Ministers of Churches Together in Stowmarket, followed. These are all great events and if you haven’t attended any of these activities in the past you should place them in your diary for next year and come along. I’m sure that once you attend them, they will all become an annual event in your diaries. We have the Remembrance Parade to go, which you will hear more about in the January edition. A reminder that we are always looking for volunteers and one area we would like to concentrate on is our social media, including capturing images, so if this is an interest of yours we would love to hear from you. Contact our secretary on 07860 120695. The only thing left for us to do, on behalf of the president, chairman, committee and all the members of the Branch, is to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and all the very best for the New Year. ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION With December being a time for family and friends to come together, Stowmarket RNA will be holding its annual Christmas get-together on Tuesday 17 December, which promises to be its usual mix of fun and laughter. At this year’s December gathering we are delighted to be handing over a cheque for £800 to SERV (Suffolk & Cambridge) which we raised at our Trafalgar Night Dinner in October. SERV are a charitable organisation who provide a free service transporting blood products, donated breast milk and patient samples to the NHS and local Air Ambulances, and we are delighted to be able to support this cause.

vice-chairlady, gave thanks to Sue for the way she has settled into her role; she is doing a sterling job. We also learned that the Poppy Curtain, which members contributed to with their knitted poppies, is in storage and will be used again on special occasions. The award of the rose bowl, for the most points for the competitions held, were first Gloria, second Muriel and joint third Carole and Lynda. Coffee mornings continue at the museum – more information to follow. Sue will be representing us at the National AGM 2020, which will be held in Winchester at the end of January. During our AGM we had a short break where we played Call My Bluff. Lynda, Shirley and Sue read out some definitions and members had to guess who was telling the truth. A lot of fun was had; Audrey and Brenda were victorious and were awarded chocolates. After the raffle and singing of the National Anthem, the meeting closed. The meeting on December 18 will be our Christmas dinner at the RBL Club. Entertainment will be provided by Tyler Kemp. ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION STOWMARKET BRANCH Well, I think we are able to mention the ‘C’ word now as, by the time you read this, it will be December. We send our best wishes for Christmas and the New Year to In Touch readers. Since our last report we have been involved with the Remembrance Commemorations in town. Our standard was proudly paraded at the Festival of Remembrance and we took part in the march through the town and the Remembrance Sunday Service in the parish church. Following the service, the parade re-assembled and marched to the Memorial Gates for the wreath laying ceremony. On Monday 11 November we were represented at the Armistice Day Service in the Market Place. On that same afternoon we took part in a little service of Remembrance at Chilton Meadows Nursing Home. There will be a Christmas Fayre in the Royal British Legion Club on Saturday 7 December from 11am. Our Branch are pleased to support this and will be having a stall along with many other organisations and individuals. Seasonal refreshments, such as turkey and cranberry and pork and apple baps, will be available along with mince pies and mulled wine. Please try to support this event.

Looking ahead to 2020, we will continue to foster close ties with the town, Stowmarket Royal British Legion and other service associations, and to uphold our core values of Unity, Loyalty, Patriotism and Comradeship. Branch meetings are on the third Tuesday of each month at the Royal British Legion Club in Stowmarket at 7.30pm.

Our Branch do not meet in January so our next meeting will be on Wednesday 5 February. We are always pleased to welcome any prospective new members. If you would like further information, please contact our secretary on 01449 676871.

Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year to you all.

Don’t forget we have plenty going on at the club, so come along a join in. Upcoming events for your diary are as follows:

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WOMEN’S SECTION (STOWMARKET) Our AGM was held on October 15. Maggie, our president, gave the opening address, followed by Sue, our chairlady. A summary of events over the last year included two successful jumble sales, several outings and various speakers. Sue thanked the committee, who are all continuing in their roles, for their hard work. We also have a new Chaplain, Rev Canon Pauline Higham. The food bank has done really well, and it is hoped that contributions will continue. The collection of 5p coins towards a buggy at the National Memorial Arboretum is to continue. The theme of our Christmas tree at the church for this year’s festival is Angels from the Realms of Glory. Thanks go to Gloria who has been busy knitting angels. Brenda gave a detailed account of our bank balance. Shirley, as

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

RBL CLUB

Sat 30 Nov: Turkey and Tinsel Xmas Dinner with live music from G&T Tue 10 Dec: Christmas Bingo – eyes down at 12.30pm Thu 12 Dec: Christmas Luncheon Fri 20 Dec: Christmas Party and grand Christmas draw with buffet and disco Mon 23 Dec: Christmas Disco and buffet for people with additional needs and their support workers. Tue 31 Dec: New Year’s Eve Party, live music from Tyler Kemp For more information on these and other activities please visit: http://branches.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/stowmarket

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET This month we are looking for a home for Susie and Sally, beautiful brown semi-longhaired sisters who are about five months old. They are a very friendly pair who love a fuss and just love to play. They will need regular grooming to keep their coats looking beautiful. Susie and Sally are not used to living with young children or with a dog. They are neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. If you are interested in giving a home to any of the cats in our care please ring 01449 674584. More information can be found on our Facebook page and at: www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds

WOOD LEY PRIMARY SCHOOL It’s been another fun packed month of learning at Wood Ley Primary School. Since the last article we have had a visit from an owl, another author visit, a group of drummers from Ghana come to work with us and we’re been learning lifesaving skills. A representative from Stonham Owl Sanctuary came to teach everybody all about owls, how they live and what they eat. They brought Darwin the owl with them who was on his best behaviour and was thoroughly loved by everyone. Author Grant Strong visited the school and talked to all the children about using their imagination to write. The children came up with some fantastic ideas for stories. We might well have the next J K Rowling in our midst! We kicked off the new half term with an amazing visit from the Kakatsitsi master drummers from Ghana. They showed us their traditional drumming and dancing and carried out workshops with all the children! A great time had by all with some real cultural learning going on.

If your cat hasn’t been neutered and your circumstances mean that you need help towards the cost, please ring Margaret on 01284 851055 and leave a message. Your call will be returned as soon as possible. Our Admissions and Lost & Found number is 01449 615500. Thank you for continuing to leave cat food in our food collecting baskets in both Needham Market Post Office and Cedarwood Vets in Stowmarket. Special thanks to the management in both locations for their help. FUNDRAISING EVENT Our final fundraising event for this year is a stall in Needham Market Community Centre on Sunday 1 December, 10am-3.30pm. We will be selling Christmas cards and calendars and will also be having a tombola. A very Happy Christmas and a Purrfect New Year to you all.

Finally, having learned what to do in an emergency situation, how to carry out CPR, how to get someone into the recovery position and how to bandage up cuts, nearly 90 children in Years 5 and 6 are now lifesavers! We can’t wait to see what fantastic learning opportunities are coming.

ST PETERS & ST MARY’S PRE-SCHOOL The glitter is out and being sprinkled everywhere. We have made the angels to decorate our tree for the Christmas Tree Festival. Our theme is Hark the Herald Angels Sing. Now it’s time to decorate the pre-school and make some decorations to take home. We have been learning through stories this term and now we’re focused on

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

practising our nativity, the last story of the term. With a little help from #hideandseekinstowmarket it has been great fun finding the various books that have appeared at pre-school. We always have time to read another story. The children have also had fun taking the books to hide with their parents, so be sure to look out for them on your travels. We still have a few spaces; contact us at: 07803 290272 / stpeters.stmaryspreschool@gmail.com Finally, we would like to wish you a very Happy Christmas to you all.

Caring is at the heart of everything we do... Together we respect, with compassion we care, through commitment we achieve

Barking Hall

Hillcroft House

Uvedale Hall

Part of the Healthcare Homes Group

Barking Hall, Barking, Near Needham Market, Suffolk IP6 8HJ

Hillcroft House, Finborough Road, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1PW

Uvedale Hall, Coddenham Road, Needham Market, Suffolk IP6 8AX

Tel: 01449 720793

Tel: 01449 774633

Tel: 01449 722250

Specialising in general nursing, dementia and end of life care.

Specialising in dementia care.

Providing residential care.

ď&#x201A;&#x201A; HealthcareHomes

healthcarehomes.co.uk 22

Barking Hall, Hillcroft House and Uvedale Hall have been rated Good in all areas by CQC (2019)

Good

In Touch online:

SCHOOLS / SPORT CHILTON COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL KS1 Transport Topic Years 1 and 2 have been learning all about how transport has changed over time. They have specifically been learning about Vikings, which included an afternoon where parents and guardians were invited into school to help our pupils make Viking longships from recycled materials. Year 6 Food Bank Visit On Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16 October, Year 6 spent the afternoon at our local food bank learning all about how the charity works and what they do to support those in need. Previous to this, we had been asking all of our pupils for food donations to contribute towards our Harvest Festival, which was in partnership with the food bank.

STOWMARKET CRICKET CLUB Stowmarket Cricket Club celebrated another successful season with an excellent evening at Stowmarket Golf Club. Ashley Lilley, pictured (below left) with Andrew Bingham, our main sponsor, received the Young Player award as well as the second eleven Bowling Cup. Other award winners were Adrian Watling, Paul Blake, Nik Mayhew, Craig Watling and Mike Ives. Clive Witherly, still playing every week and serving the club in many capacities over 50 since making his debut and pictured at Lord’s cricket ground with first eleven captain Paul Blake, was nominated by the club for the Heartbeat of the Club award. Without people like Clive, clubs like ours could not survive and flourish.

We are extremely pleased with this feedback: “It was lovely to have a visit from your pupils. The ones who visited the food bank were so well behaved; they were very polite, asked fantastic questions and listened very well. You must be very proud of them. Thank you for the kind donations: we received 80kg from your school.” Year 3 and 4 Anglo Saxon Day

SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY

On Tuesday 29 October, Years 3 and 4 took part in an immersive learning experience with Pearce The Anglo Saxon. Pupils got to explore the life of Anglo Saxons, which included building an Anglo Saxon shelter, role play exercises, playing an Anglo Saxon board game and exploring mock artefacts. The afternoon also consisted of the children building a Viking longship, acting out Viking attacks, learning about the Battle of Hastings and making their own Bayeux Tapestry. It was a successful day enjoyed by all. Breakfast Club We offer a breakfast club to all our pupils, which is supported by Kellogg’s. Breakfast is regarded as the most important meal of the day, but research shows that one in every seven children skip this meal, which has a negative impact on their ability to learn and develop within their school day. Our breakfast club allows for those pupils to have a healthy breakfast as well as allowing them to enjoy fun activities before school.

We had a marvellous turnout of juniors dressed in spooky masks and outfits at our two Halloween parties. The first was at our Tuesday training session at our Needham Market Community Centre Dojo, followed by our Stowmarket Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre Dojo party at our Thursday class. Lots of fun and games and, much to the delight of the children, Nerf gun fun plus lots of sweets. The academy is actively collecting for Stowmarket Food Bank and all donations are welcome. December has us holding karate and kickboxing interclub tournaments, a children’s Christmas party and a senior’s social night out. We teach karate and kickboxing throughout the week and specialise in teaching realistic self-defence. Enrolling your child in our classes will increase their fitness, confidence and leadership skills, and help them to make friends, learn anti bullying techniques, train to blackbelt level and become part of an amazing team. We also welcome seniors over the age of fourteen to join us and gain all of the above. For further details contact Mark Jr Trent 07708 644162 / scorpion.ufkkwa@gmail.com

To celebrate 20 years of Kellogg’s supporting breakfast clubs within schools, they have awarded Chilton Primary School with a £1,000 grant to enhance the club in order to keep supporting those children using this service. Chilton Primary School were selected for this award due to the announcement from Kellogg’s that they were to double their investment in those schools supporting breakfast club in 2019.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

SPORT / CHURCH NEWS INORI AIKIDO Last month, students from Inori Aikikai Aikido Dojo in Woolpit took a trip to Romania to train with worldrenowned Aikido teacher Christian Tissier shihan. Tissier sensei started training in Aikido as a child in France, back in 1962, and at just 18 years old, he made the move to Tokyo, training for seven years at the Aikikai Hombu Dojo, the headquarters of Aikido. In January 2016 he received the highest rank for a non-Japanese teacher – 8 Dan Aikido Aikikai. His courses are always extremely popular worldwide, and this one in Romania was particularly well attended.

STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB After a weather-induced delay lasting a couple of weeks, we installed the winter dome on Tuesday 29 October. Much to the relief of everybody involved, we can now play right through the winter in lovely dry, wind and frost-free conditions. There’s no snow on the horizon just yet so I’m sleeping soundly for a while. Those of you familiar with playing inside the ‘bubble’ will know to add an extra layer or two as it can get rather chilly in there until fully warmed-up.

To make the most of this popularity, the venue was set to be the excellent Musubi Dojo in Cluj-Napoca, in the middle of Transylvania. Remarkably, nearly 150 people stepped on the tatami on this occasion.

New players or visitors are reminded that although the conditions inside are ideal for winter tennis, it can be a surprise when first entering to feel how low the temperature can be. Still, once we’re running around and in full flight it certainly helps keep us cool. Many thanks to the large number of club members who volunteered their time to get this fantastic facility up again for another season. All the teams, club players and social players can now look forward to guaranteed tennis for the next five months.

“The three days were very intensive and we covered a lot of basic and clear techniques adapted to both beginners and advanced students. Tissier sensei pays attention to every single detail and re-emphasised the importance of body movement, foot work, the general attitude and good posture, the centre line (axis of action), connection and communication with the attacker. It was great to meet up again with many others we have practised with and been students of Tissier sensei over the years who travelled from France, Holland, Germany, Belgium, Slovenia, Hungary, Bulgaria and all over Romania to share in this fabulous weekend seminar!

I’m sorry to report that our club president, John Reed, passed away recently. He was instrumental in moving the club to its current site when ASDA was built, and for campaigning long and hard to get LTA support for our winter dome. John can be credited for laying the foundations for the club into its modern era and we all owe a huge debt of gratitude for his years of hard work and commitment to the club. It’s a particularly sad time for the club as his wife Jill passed away a few weeks previously. The memorial service for John was held at Buxhall church on Saturday 9 November.

“We can also see what an incredible amount of effort is needed to organise these important aikido events. A big thank you to Dorin Marchis sensei and Romanian Aikikai Aikido Foundation for doing such an amazing job!” Domo Arigato Gozaimashita

Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham

If you have never tried Aikido, it’s a dynamic Japanese Martial Art suitable for men and women of any age, size and build. The art focuses on using the attackers’ movement against them and includes a combination of emptyhanded techniques, along with weapons including sword, staff and knife, all practised in a safe and friendly environment. Regular classes run at Woolpit Village Hall on Thursday nights and are taught by sensei Adrian Munteanu, 4 Dan Aikikai, Fukushidoin. Sensei Adrian is Coach Level 1 & 2 qualified, DBS checked and first aid qualified. Sensei Adrian: 07793 658748 / inoridojo@yahoo.com Facebook: @Inori Dojo / www.inoridojo.wixsite.com/aikidosuffolk Pictured left to right: Katie Dickinson, Manu Lacouture, Christian Tissier Shihan, Adrian Munteanu, John Chapman.

NEWS FROM STOWUPLAND BOWLS GREEN We expected our article in the November issue to be our last until next year, but circumstances have changed and we write now to inform all interested parties that our bowls club has entered a new era. With immediate effect, the club is now known as Stowupland Bowls Club. This was agreed after meetings and discussions with our trustees and the local council. All other aspects remain the same and once further information is available this will be relayed to one and all, but you may have to wait until next spring.

chris@chriscoaching.plus.com / 07761 142372

STOWMARKET GOSPEL HALL There are plenty of great things to enjoy at Christmas with good food and good company, but don’t forget that Christ is the most important part of Christmas. Carols and Bible readings bring us the central message of Christmas that God sent His Son to be our Saviour. There are some great opportunities for you and your family to enjoy the Christmas story. Our Christmas Trailblazers for children is on Saturday 14 December. As always, it runs from 10.30am to noon and we’ll be singing carols, doing crafts and listening to the Christmas story. On Sunday 15 December we have our Family Carol Service. This is at 4pm and we hope that the children will be helping us with the singing and readings. There will also be some refreshments and time to chat at the end. Everyone will be very welcome and we will be delighted to share in making your Christmas a special time.

Re-naming the club may prove to be of more interest to local residents who would like to try their hand, so do please contact us at any time during the following months. Our chairman, Frank Boxall (01359 244591), or our secretary, Graham Newman (01359 240846), would be delighted to hear from you and to explain what we are all about. During the close season we will be holding a selection of fun nights for our bowls and social members. Before we know it the next season will be upon us. We wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and a healthy and happy 2020. David Begg: 01359 242025

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

Christmas Chocolate Bingo! Saturday 7th December Fantastic Family Night Out Needham Market Community Centre Doors open 6.30 pm - first Game 7.30 prompt Full Bar: Entry £6.00 – under 10’s £4.00

To include Supper with dessert Bingo with a real difference! Six exciting games Chocolate related prizes and raffle £££££ Final Game Cash £££££ Tickets on sale in shop or call 01449 760343/07974 424374

Credit Card Payments accepted

A Charity event for Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline. Registered Charity Number 1014274

In Touch online:

CHURCH NEWS STOWMARKET UNITED REFORMED CHURCH The shops are telling us that Christmas is fast approaching. As you read this, Stowmarket town centre will be alight with anticipation in the air. We also enjoy this time of year, decorating the church – our theme this year is Bells, Stars and Snowflakes – and hosting all types of sessional events. The church is normally open each weekday between 10am and 12.30pm. We especially look forward to remembering our Lord’s birth with our weekly Sunday services at 10.25am focusing on the theme of Advent, the highlight for many being the performance by our children of their nativity presentation on Sunday 15 December. On Sunday 22 another popular service is Carols by Candlelight at 4pm. We greet Christmas Day with a service at 11.30pm on Tuesday 24 and continue with a Family Service on Christmas morning at 10.25am, both led By William Glasse. As reported in the last issue, 2020 will be an exciting year as we welcome The Rev Robert Sheard as our minister from July. Robert is currently ministering in Lincolnshire. He is married with a teenage daughter.

THE SALVATION ARMY Violet Hill Road, Stowmarket IP14 1NE SERVICES & EVENTS IN DECEMBER Sunday 1

11am Service 6pm Churches Together Advent Sunday, Parish Church

Wednesday 4 7pm Carols for All Tickets available from Style at Stow, 15 Bury Street, Special guests & free hot chocolate from Emergency Unit Saturday 7

10am Band Carolling in Market Place

Sunday 8

11am Toy Service / 4pm Christmas Messy Church 3pm Band at Hitcham Village Hall

Monday 9

7pm Band at St Edmundsbury Cathedral Emergency Services Carol Service

Tuesday 10

7.30pm Live Lounge at Costa with Special Guest

Wednesday 11 7pm Young People’s Band at Mere View Home

In an open letter he writes: “Thank you all so very much for waiting that long for me to come and join you, this is so that our daughter Catherine can finish this part of her education which in main is her GCSEs. She would like to study further, possibly in Ipswich, if all goes well. I am looking forward to joining each one of you on our Christian journey together, and exploring how God is calling us to serve, and witness in each of your churches.”

Saturday 14

10am Band Carolling at Ipswich Asda 4pm Band at Onehouse Community Centre Carol Service

Sunday 15

11am Christmas Service by Sunday School 5.30pm Evening Service

We wish all readers an enjoyable Christmas and an invitation to all to come and see what’s on at the URC. You will be made very welcome.

Thursday 19

7pm Young People’s Band at Target Club

Saturday 21

10am Band Carolling at Stowmarket Tesco

Sunday 22

Young People’s Band to visit Care Homes (am 11am Service / 4pm Candlelight Service

Tuesday 24

10am Band Carolling in Market Place

Wednesday 18 7pm Band at Baylham Care Centre

Wednesday 25 10.30am Christmas Day Service CHRISTMAS SERVICES Sunday 15 December at 10.30am All-Age Christmas Service Sunday 15 December at 6pm Carol Service Wednesday 25 December at 10am Christmas Morning Service All events take place at Cedars Park Primary School We hope to see you there! For more information about our church please visit: www.cedarschurch.com Or contact us at: info@cedarschurch.com

Sunday 5 Jan

11am & 5.30pm Services

Christmas message from Major James Lloyd With Christmas around the corner, it seems like stores are lining their aisles with Christmas items, TV commercials have switched to the theme of giving and love, people are talking about gifts and Santas will soon be appearing. And why shouldn’t they, after all it’s that time, the meaning of the season, right? Yet, the very first Christmas seemed to do without all of these. The very first Christmas somehow started a frenzy without the power of TV, without candy canes, without Santa and without Christmas sales. Even more amazingly, the very first Christmas involved a poor couple, nobodies, who would lay the most precious child of all in a manger. (Luke 2:4-7) Today, let us remember the true meaning of Christmas... Peace on Earth, goodwill toward men, for the Saviour has come to show us how to love, and to give us the greatest gift of love. (John 15:13) Although some weekly activities are altered during December, our Sunday Services are well attended and everyone is most welcome. If you would like any more details or information, please ring Jenny on 01449 614133.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

CHURCH NEWS CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist/United Reformed Church, High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP Minister: The Rev Rita Carr (Methodist) 01449 612619 Everyone at Christchurch would like to wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas. However, Christmas isn’t a happy time for everyone and for many it won’t be peaceful either. Our world is in a troubled state and finding solutions to all the problems seems almost impossible. However you spend Christmas, whether with family, friends or even on your own, we hope you encounter peace, hope and joy this season. We can’t solve the world’s problems by ourselves, but there is something we can do. If we can smile and stay positive and try to see the best in people and situations, perhaps we can bring a bit of joy and happiness into our own little corner of the world. Who knows – it could spread and start an epidemic! SN We hope you can join us for some of our Christmas events. Sunday 1 December: Following our morning service, we will be open for refreshments and children’s activities, joining in with Needham Market Street Fayre. Saturday 7 December: Coffee Morning Thursday 12 December: Crib Service at 5pm Sunday 22 December: Carol Service at 4pm Wednesday 25 December: Christmas Service at 11am Knit for Peace will meet on December 4, but will not meet in January. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is January 18-25, with a United Service at Christchurch on January 19 at 10.30am. Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am (including crèche and Sunday Club) Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES IN CHRISTCHURCH HALLS Tiddlers: For mums and babies up to four years, Monday from 9.30-11.15am in term time. Contact Victoria: 07725 037026 Scrabble Club: Monday from 2-4pm. New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm. Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 (see above) Christians Together: 10am-noon. Contact Tony Leigh Pollitt: 01449 403105 Coffee Morning: Second Saturday, 10am-noon, always with a selection of cakes for sale. OTHER REGULAR BOOKINGS Weight Watchers: Saturday 8-10am Yoga: Monday 6.45-8.45pm / Wednesday 9.15-11.15am

Advent and Christmas are here. Please join us to celebrate this very special birthday at one of our Christmas services or events. Remember to look out for the #FollowTheStar events and activities taking place this Christmas Season. CRIB SERVICES A service to bless the crib in preparation for the arrival of Baby Jesus. St Mary’s Church Buxhall: 3pm on Tuesday 24 December St John the Baptist Church Onehouse: 3pm on Tuesday 24 December St Mary’s Church Combs: 3pm on Tuesday 24 December St Andrew’s Church Great Finborough: 4pm on Tuesday 24 December CAROL SERVICES St Mary’s Church Buxhall: Nine Lessons and Carols 6.30pm on Sunday 22 December King Charles the Martyr Church Shelland: Carol Service 10am on Sunday 22 December St Mary’s Church Combs: Carol Service 3pm on Sunday 22 December St Andrew’s Church Great Finborough: Carol Service 4pm on Sunday 22 December St Augustine of Canterbury Church Harleston: Carol Service 4.30pm on Tuesday 24 December COMMUNITY CAROLS Onehouse Community Carols at Onehouse Community Centre 4pm on Saturday 14 December Please come and sing some Christmas Carols accompanied by Stowmarket Salvation Army Band. Buxhall Village Carol Service at St Mary’s Church Buxhall 4pm on Sunday 15 December Please come and sing some Christmas Carols and hear the Christmas Story in With Love From God To You by the Bible Society. CHRISTINGLE SERVICES Everyone welcome; children to be accompanied by an adult. St Mary’s Church Little Finborough: 3.30pm on Sunday 29 December St John the Baptist Church Onehouse: 11am on Sunday 8 December St Mary’s Church Combs: 3pm on Sunday 8 December St Andrew’s Church Great Finborough: 3pm on Sunday 8 December MESSY CHURCH All children with accompanying adult welcome. St Andrew’s Church Great Finborough: 3.30pm on Friday 6 December St Mary’s Church Combs: 11am on Sunday 1 December with bacon Rolls from 10.30am

Moo Born Baby Massage: Monday 12.30-2.30pm

Please stay for refreshments after Christingle Services and Messy Church activities.

Moosical Moo for ages 0-5: Tuesday 9.15am-noon in term time

CHRISTMAS DAY

Osteo Stretch & Exercise: Tuesday 12.30-1.30pm

St Mary’s Church Little Finborough: 9am Holy Communion

Over Power Body Transformations Fitness Class: Wednesday 5.30-8pm

King Charles the Martyr Church Shelland: 9.15am Family Communion

Rainbow Guides: Thursday 5.30-6.30pm (term time) Brownies: Thursday 6.30-7.30pm (term time) Exercise Classes: Friday 9-10.30am HALL LETTINGS: There are spaces available for hire. To arrange a visit to view or for further information ring: 07851 742847 CHURCH CONTACT: Lindsey Gomez, 01449 722418 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk

St Mary’s Church Buxhall: 10.30am Family Communion St Mary’s Church Combs: 10.30am Family Communion St John the Baptist Church Onehouse: 10.30am Family Communion EPIPHANY SONGS OF PRAISE Benefice Service at Great Finborough Church: 3pm on Sunday 5 January For more details about any of our services or events please contact Revd Chris Childs: revcchilds@aol.com / 01449 673280 Revd Canon Pauline Higham: 01449 771791

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

ELECTRICAL Tel/Fax: 01449 612537 Your local electrical service contractor for expert advice

• Rewiring • New Installation • Testing and Repair Work • Supplier of Electrical Equipment Unit 5, Glebe Farm, Onehouse, Stowmarket

John Bull motors ltd Petrol and diesel MOT Testing Servicing, repairs & diagnostics

Unit 7B, Charles Ind. Estate, Stowmarket

Tel: 01449 774150 Fax: 01449 675898 johnbullmotors@btconnect.com

To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

In Touch online:

Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning

Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation

call John Burch: 07870 347486

Tel: 01449 721441

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

UP TO 16 PASSENGERS TRANSPORTED TO

AIRPORTS HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS SEAPORTS

32 YEARS EXPERIENCE FULLY LICENSED & CRB CHECKED.

FOR A FRIENDLY AND RELIABLE LOCAL SERVICE TELEPHONE: 01449 780359 24 HOUR ANSWERPHONE SERVICE ADVANCED BOOKINGS ONLY

COTTON CARRIAGES

Suffolk Foot Health Jane Robinson MCFHP MAFHP Calluses Corns Verrucas Ingrowing Nails Fungal Infections Athleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Foot Nail Trimming Diabetic Foot Care

HOME VISITS Mobile: 07916 143618

S J Wallace Builders Ltd Est. 1987

Specialising in Extensions, Kitchens & General Building Residential and Commercial Visit our website at

www.sjwallacebuilders.co.uk Tel: 01449 672997 Mobile: 07788 560482 FREE ESTIMATES To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380