In Touch News with Stowmarket March 2019

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Vol. 19 • Issue No. 2 • NOVEMBER 2013

FREE to STOWMARKET & STOWUPLAND 50p where sold Volume 24 • Issue No. 6RESIDENTS • MARCH 2019

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I hope you value the fact that we aim to produce a monthly magazine with a balance of advertising and editorial content, providing essential information about products and services we all require and supporting local business in doing so, while also providing relevant local news which enables residents to engage with the local community and keep in touch with local news and events. As editor I juggle this rather delicate balance very carefully and encourage readers to support the advertisers who enable Mansion House Publishing (MHP) to design, print and deliver the magazine every month and to support an enormous range of fundraising activities and charities.

You’ll find quite a few in this edition and I hope you can support the efforts of those who make them happen.

One which I’d like to highlight this month, and which we have made a commitment to support until the project has been completed, is The Blossom Appeal, a Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals charity set up to develop a £2.5 million Breast Centre at Ipswich Hospital. The new centre will bring all elements of breast care at Ipswich Hospital under one roof and provide an environment where patients can be imaged, biopsied where necessary, and see their clinician in one appointment without the need to get dressed and undressed several times. There will also be new dedicated clinics for men and young people.

We’ll provide regular updates, promote fundraising events and let you know how you can help. Right now they are looking for people to open their gardens in 2019. All types and size of garden are welcome. You choose when to open.

Simply ask visitors for a donation to view your garden and sell refreshments, plants or crafts to boost your fundraising. Register your garden at www.colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk/opengardens or for more information contact: charity@esneft.nhs.uk / 0300 770 1369 To find out more about The Blossom Appeal please visit: www.colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk/breast

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APRIL DEADLINE 10 MARCH 2019 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

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NEWS I LOOKED EAST AND I LOOKED WEST A major Irish music festival for Stowmarket It has been announced that a major traditional Irish music festival is to take place in Stowmarket this spring.

Funding has been confirmed from Culture Ireland (an Irish organisation which funds professional Irish musicians appearing in the UK) and from Stowmarket Town Council for the festival which will take place over the weekend of April 26-28 this year.

The festival will feature top fiddle, accordion, flute and uilleann pipes players from the west of Ireland, who will perform at concerts in the John Peel Centre as well as giving dance workshops and presentations in various other venues in the town, plus of course lively music sessions in pubs.

The weekend is dedicated to the memory of one of the great Irish fiddle players, Julia Clifford, who learned her music at home in Co Kerry in an area known as ‘Sliabh Luachra’. Julia moved to London where she became very well-known and made many recordings, before finally settling in East Anglia where local musicians met and played with her, including the festival organisers.

The festival will be a celebration of her life and music and is appropriately named after one of her tunes, I Looked East and I Looked West, showing her journey from Sliabh Luachra to East Anglia.

Organisers Katie and John Howson say: “This is the largest Irish traditional music festival to be held in the eastern counties and will attract many visitors to Stowmarket, a town which has great facilities for such a festival and hopefully it will give a boost to many local businesses.”

Katie and John (from Haughley) are pictured below with Michael Sheehy (from Rickenhall) taking a break during a music session at the Willie Clancy Festival in Co Clare (photo Colm Keating).

The organisers would be pleased to hear from any who would like to sponsor an event or advertise in the programme.

Tickets are now on sale from www.katiehowson.co.uk where more information can be found as well on Facebook: @ilookedeast Contact can be made on: ilookedeast@gmail.com

TOWN GRANT BRINGS BRAHMS TO STOWMARKET! Stowmarket Chorale was delighted recently to receive news of the success of their grant application to Stowmarket Town Council. The £500 grant will help fund the society’s concert of Brahms’ popular Requiem, Mendelssohn’s Hear My Prayer and pieces by Purcell and Britten to take place on Saturday, March 30 at 7.30pm at Stowmarket United Reformed Church. Tickets are £15 (children/students free) from the website or on the door.

Members of the 65-strong choir meet to rehearse every Wednesday evening at Chilton Primary School, enjoying the well-known benefits of singing – physical and mental health, wellbeing, social cohesion, and downright fun! They put on three or four concerts a year, hiring professionals to take the solo and instrumental roles, and enable the residents of Stowmarket area to enjoy high quality live classical music on their doorstep.

Find out more at: www.stowmarketchorale.org.uk

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NEWS STOWUPLAND CHILDREN BENEFIT FROM A BRIGHT NEW PLAY PARK Stowupland Village Hall Management Committee secured a £24,500 grant from Biffa Award, a multi-million pound fund that helps to build communities and transform lives through awarding grants to community and environmental projects across the UK as part of the Landfill Communities Fund.

The project, which was awarded funding under Biffa Award’s Recreation theme, set out to regenerate the much-loved village play park in Stowupland.

Over the years the wooden equipment had deteriorated, resulting in some pieces being removed completely. The plan was to install bright new challenging equipment for a rapidly growing village.

STOWMARKET BELLS PROJECT We are currently planning events for the next few months, including a quiz, special speakers and one of the more unusual bingo sessions, each with good things to eat.

Looking ahead, there will be a sale at Hillside Community Centre on April 13 which has grown to include a mini version of the incredibly successful plant sale we ran there last year. Only a few stalls, but our keen plants people are already preparing some interesting offerings.

As ever, if you would like to suggest, or even better lead an event to raise funds we would be delighted to hear from you. Contact us at: stowmarketbellsproject@gmail.com

The play park is situated between two schools and was well used, but the equipment was failing. The community wanted to see it regenerated with some new modern and exciting equipment.

The new play park offers opportunities for children up to 13 years of age to play and learn together. New picnic benches allow families to spend time together in the play park.

Mrs Reeves, Village Hall Trustee and Parish Councillor Project Leader, said: “The grant has enabled us to provide a vibrant, challenging play facility and meeting place for the local community and visitors.”

Councillor Jerry Voden, Chairman of Stowupland Parish Council, said: “Play parks and open spaces in our villages are vital for children to learn to play together and be adventurous. The new play park offers amazing facilities for residents, visitors and children.”

Mrs Gurney, grandmother and resident said: “A big thank you to all those who have worked hard to up-date the Stowupland playpark. Their efforts are very much appreciated by the young children who use the park and by the parents and grandparents who accompany them. The new equipment is vibrant with colour and is exciting for the children, as there are new rides as well as apparatus to test their co-ordination and balance. The ball park is superb for the older children to practice their ball skills.”

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Friday, March 1, 10am-noon: Coffee and Networking Needham Market Community Centre, School Street, Needham Market Friday, March 15, 6.45am: Breakfast The Mix Stowmarket, Suffolk To book online, follow the link at: https://stowmarketchamber.co.uk/networking-events Don’t forget MSBE2 (Mid Suffolk Business Exhibition) will be back on March 27 at The Mix. Find out all about it and reserve your visitors’ goody bag at: https://msbe.biz

Gillian French, Head of Grants at Biffa Award said: “It’s great to have improved this well-loved space in the village. It’s so important that children have a safe place to play outdoors and the new equipment looks fantastic!”

STOWMARKET POPPY APPEAL The 2018/ 2019 Poppy Appeal currently stands at £38,803.29 which again is more than at the same time last year. While a greater awareness was created by the First World War Armistice centenary commemorations, nevertheless our thanks must go to the general public and all our supporters for their exceptional generosity.

Over 100 individual collectors were out for many hours over the Remembrance fortnight at supermarkets, in town and house to house, 130 outlets held a static tin during the Remembrance period and a further 14 outlets retain a collecting tin all year round. All deserve grateful thanks for their voluntary support.

Recently, the individual collectors gathered for the annual social and awards evening. Bethany Willis, a local fitness instructor and beneficiary of the Royal British Legion, told her interesting and inspiring story and then presented the main awards. Councillor Lt Col Barry Humphreys MBE represented the Mayor as Patron of Stowmarket Poppy Appeal and presented the awards for the Centenary Poppy Window Competition (winner Style at Stow, runner-up British Heart Foundation shop and in third place St Elizabeth Hospice shop).

Councillor Humphreys also presented the Malcolm Ranson Award which goes to an individual or outlet annually for exceptional work in relation to the appeal. This year, congratulations go to worthy recipient Sue Priest.

The RBL Club in Tavern Street will be holding a quiz to raise funds for Stowmarket Poppy Appeal on Saturday, March 30 from 7.30pm. All welcome.

Rachel Oakley PAO Stowmarket Poppy Appeal – EJD59

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NEWS REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM: FEBRUARY 2019 DISTRICT COUNCILLOR FOR STOWUPLAND WARD Budget Proposals and Council Tax for 2019/20 The final budget proposals for the next financial year will be on the council agenda for a decision towards the end of February. This is the meeting for opposition groups to put forward alternative budgets or seek changes to the Conservative administration’s budget. Despite a projected underspend of just over £1.6 million, the council is proposing an increase in Council Tax of two per cent. The council is also proposing further borrowing of around £25 million to invest in commercial properties; this is in addition to £25 million borrowed and invested in commercial properties such as a car showroom, industrial units, a coffee shop, a restaurant and an M&S store in places like Harlow, Milton Keynes, Peterborough and Brentwood. I will join with other members of the Green Party opposition group to resist borrowing further huge sums of money, and ask for the commercial properties to be sold and the proceeds used to build homes for sale and rent. There is an urgent need for energy-efficient high-quality homes to help alleviate the housing shortage. Every new home built will bring in income through New Homes Bonus, Council Tax and rents and help to meet our commitments for housing completions and providing homes for social rent.

council; but there had been no discussions with the parish council. The delay will give the opportunity for suitable terms to be agreed so that the meadow is gifted to the village with a commuted sum to pay for ongoing maintenance, as set out in the officer’s report.

Neighbourhood Plan Congratulations to Jackie Ward and her working group for completing the Neighbourhood Plan and a successful outcome of the Independent Examination. The next step is for the MSDC Cabinet, on March 4, to approve the plan so that it can proceed to the referendum stage. This is the time for residents to vote for the plan to become a formal planning document. This is a critical step and it’s very important that every resident looks at the plan and, hopefully, votes in favour so that we have a defence against predatory developers wishing to turn more of our village into mass housing. Look out for details of the plan and how to vote; the likely date is May 4 to coincide with the district council elections.

Bloor Homes Development at Trinity Meadows I met with representatives of Bloor Homes to discuss the amount of mud and grit on the A1120. Their contractor sweeps the road regularly, but material has been washing into gully gratings and, instead of flowing away, the water runs down the edge of the road. Bloor Homes have agreed to clean out the gullies closest to their site and, if the road can be kept clear, the gullies will collect the water and prevent it from running down the hill.

Proposed development of land adjacent to Gipping Road and Thradstones Meadow, Stowupland This application was to be considered by Planning Committee on January 30, but for a number of reasons a decision has been delayed. The officers will need to redraft their report taking into account the advanced stage of preparation of the Neighbourhood Plan. The original draft of the report contained a condition that the meadow be transferred to the parish

Footpath alongside Gipping Road I inspected this footpath with a planning enforcement officer and the site manager from Bloor Homes. We found evidence of glass and pottery fragments in the material under the sandy top layer. Some of these fragments work their way to the surface and are a danger, especially if anyone should fall over. I have asked Bloor Homes to come up with a solution to the problem.

Proposal to build four dwellings on land off Gipping Road, adjacent to the private road to Columbine Hall I met with the planning officer dealing with this application and he feels that there are grounds for refusing the application. Consequently I haven’t called the application in for a committee decision. I hope that the application may be withdrawn or, if not, a refusal is issued and that the applicant will not subsequently appeal.

District Council Elections This is my last report before the district council elections in May. Due to the Council Ward Boundary changes, Stowupland will become part of an enlarged ward with Haughley, Wetherden and Old Newton. The ward will elect two councillors. My colleague, Rachel Eburne, who currently represents Haughley and Wetherden, and I will be candidates for the new ward. Elections will take place on Thursday, May 2.

Keith Welham Keith.Welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk

CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE Easter Chocolate Bingo April 6 is our Easter Chocolate Bingo. Do remember that this was sold out in 2018 so get your tickets early! It’s not your normal Bingo! Using a big screen, all Bingo numbers are called by celebrity voices such as Michael Cane, Victor Meldrew, Ozzie Osborne and others. Prizes are given for one line, two lines and a full house and everything is chocolate related, though not all edible!

There are six games played, cards for games one to five are £1 each and for game six they are £3 each as the full house prize is £100 cash! During the interval a hot meal is provided followed by scrummy deserts. There will also be a free competition with a prize for the winners. We have a magnificent raffle – all Easter and Chocolate themed of course.

If you want a really good family night out, where children are welcome, a full bar is available and you get fed as well, all for only £6 (£3 for under10s), tickets are available from our charity shop on Coddenham Road in Needham Market or from: 01449 760343 / 07974 424374 Can you help us to help our children?

As many of you may know, the children arrive with only the clothes they

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are wearing. We are busy collecting nearly new items which we give to the children on arrival. They take clothes not only for themselves, but also for siblings at home. If you have any children’s clothing, particularly for ages six to 13, which you would like to donate we would be extremely grateful. We are now collecting clothing for all ages as any surplus to requirements for the summer group will be taken to the social shelter in Belarus, a home for children who have been removed from their parents care. The children can be in the home for up to six months while a decision is reached as to whether they can be returned home or will go on to be fostered or adopted. Donations can be left at the charity shop or call the number below to arrange collection.

If you are interested in finding out more about the charity in general, or maybe you would like to help in our charity shop we would love to hear from you. Please do get in touch.

Thank you to everyone for your support as always.

Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / enquiries@ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk / www.facebook.com/ccllmidsuffolk

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OUT & ABOUT THE REGAL IN MARCH

THE MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE

We’re putting the final touches to our plans for the theatre’s refurbishment and expansion project. Pop in towards the end of the month and see our vision to safeguard the future of the Regal.

Art on the Farm Exhibition, March 30 – November 17

We have some great new films showing this month, but we’ve also got back a few of the big winners from last month’s Oscars, just in case you missed one!

Green Book: A working-class Italian-American bouncer becomes the driver of an African-American classical pianist on a tour of venues through the 1960s American South. Nominated for 5 Oscars. (2 hours & 10 minutes) Can You Ever Forgive Me?: When once successful author, Lee Israel falls out of step with current tastes, she turns her art form to deception. Nominated for 3 Oscars. (1 hour & 46 minutes) Bohemian Rhapsody: The story of the legendary rock band Queen and lead singer Freddie Mercury, leading up to their famous performance at Live Aid. Nominated for 5 Oscars. (2 hours & 14 minutes) A Star is Born: A musician helps a young singer find fame, even as age and alcoholism send his own career into a downward spiral. Nominated for 8 Oscars. (2 hours & 16 minutes) All Is True: A whimsical look at the final days in the life of renowned playwright William Shakespeare. (1 hour & 41 minutes) Stanley’s War: Stories of love, loss and sacrifice, following the lives of Suffolk people during the First World War One. (1 hour) Instant Family: A couple find themselves in over their heads when they foster three children. (2 hours) Fighting with my Family: A former wrestler and his family make a living performing at small venues around the country while his kids dream of joining World Wrestling Entertainment. (1 hour & 48 minutes) The Aftermath: Post World War II, a British colonel and his wife are assigned to live in Hamburg during the post-war reconstruction, but tensions arise with the German who previously owned the house. (1 hour & 48 minutes) Alita: Battle Angel: An action-packed story of one young woman’s journey to discover the truth of who she is and her fight to change the world.

(2 hours) Captain Marvel: Carol Danvers becomes one of the universe’s most powerful heroes when Earth is caught in the middle of a galactic war between two alien races. (2 hours & 12 minutes) The Lego Movie 2: It’s been five years since everything was awesome and the citizens are facing a huge new threat: Lego Duplo invaders from outer space, wrecking everything faster than they can rebuild. (1 hour & 46 minutes) The Kid Who Would Be King: A band of kids embark on an epic quest to thwart a medieval menace. (2 hours) How To Train Your Dragon 3: When Hiccup discovers Toothless isn’t the only Night Fury, he must seek the Hidden World, a secret Dragon Utopia before a hired tyrant named Grimmel finds it first. (1 hour & 44 minutes) During March we have live country music on stage from The Indians & John McNicholl, we’re also looking forward to an afternoon of swing music with Simply Swing.

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New for 2019, this free to visit exhibition can be found in Abbot’s Hall at the Museum of East Anglian Life from the end of March. Featuring original paintings by East Anglian artists, this exhibition has drawn together works to celebrate the new Heritage Farm project at the museum. Included are pictures of the famous Suffolk Punch horse, Red Poll cattle and Suffolk sheep. Most of these works date from the 19th century and illustrate how the museum is building up the heritage aspect of the new farm project, which will open in May this year Looking at these paintings of large animals alongside the pictures of both domestic and wild animals, we can understand how important the natural world was in those days. Adults and children will benefit by connecting with the animals on the heritage farm, learning about the food chain, how it can be organically produced and the treatment of livestock with consideration.

Easter Egg Hunt and New-born Lambs, April 6-22 Looking for activities to keep the kids entertained in the Easter holidays? Try out the Museum of East Anglian Life’s Easter trail. Hunt high and low across the museum site to find the eggs and win a prize!

The arrival of spring also sees the museum welcome the new-born lambs, with public feeding sessions that allow you to get up close to these adorable new additions (see website for details). www.eastanglianlife.org.uk In other exciting news, international guest experience design agency Katapult has announced plans to work with the Museum of East Anglian Life.

As winner of Katapult’s Helping Hands Project competition 2019, the museum will receive up to £10,000 in design support to help create a brand new guest experience – the National Museum of Food.

The Museum of East Anglian Life has committed to transforming itself into the National Museum of Food, “a museum which looks forward and back to engage the senses”. Katapult wanted to be an integral part of that transformation, helping to put guest experience at the heart of the new museum.

This is the second year Katapult have run their Helping Hands Project, a charity giveaway supporting destination-based charities in the leisure, culture and tourism sectors. Choosing their charity partner for the year involved a voting process that assessed the scope of the project, positive impact and values fit.

“The chance to work on creating the National Museum of Food is a real gift.

Just like us, the team at the Museum of East Anglian Life want to put guest experience right at the centre of their vision. We know this will be a stand-out project that leaves a wonderful legacy for everyone involved.” Kelly Herrick, Strategy & Development Director, Katapult “We are looking to create an innovative and environmentally-aware visitor experience which engages all the senses and speaks to people in a way which is directly relevant to their lives, inspiring and exciting them and leading to change in ideas and actions.” Jenny Cousins, Director, Museum of East Anglian Life

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OUT & ABOUT bRAVO! SCHOOL OF ROCK

REHEARSALS BEGIN AT STOWMARKET OPERATIC AND DRAMATIC SOCIETY Rehearsals have begun in earnest for Stowmarket Operatic and Dramatic Society’s spring production of the Mike Harding play, Last Tango in Whitby.

The play tells the story of the recently widowed Pat who is determined to enjoy herself on a charabanc trip to Whitby. However, the weekend takes an unexpected turn when Cupid’s arrow strikes and Pat’s friends are far from happy about the unfolding events!

Director Tory Bolger says: “Things have started well, our casting is now complete, and we are working hard to put on a fantastic show for our audiences.”

You can be assured this will make for an enjoyable evening out.

bRAVO! School of Rock students performed in their first ever-live concert in February. The school opened last summer and after starting music lessons eight months ago, the students were ready and raring to go. The entire school, ranging in age from six to 16 years, performed various songs, from Little Mix to Led Zeppelin. Playing together as a band for the first time in public was such a thrill for the students and they put on an amazing show. The parents who came to watch had such a treat and they all loved it.

We have lots of live festivals and performances coming up this year so keep an eye out for us. You can follow us on Instagram.

We meet every Saturday morning at The Boys Brigade Hall in Stowmarket and teach guitar, base, drums and singing. If you are interested in coming along, please call 01449 675395 or visit: www.bravotheatreworkshops.co.uk

You can see Last Tango in Whitby between May 15 and 18 at the John Peel Centre in Stowmarket.

If you would like to get involved with SODS, whether it be treading the boards or working back stage, contact us via: www.stowmarketoperatic.org

STOWMARKET CONCERT BAND Our main band and our training band enjoyed a fantastic 2018, with around 40 bookings and events, including concerts with up to 400 people present, one of which raised £2,250 for our chosen charity, and all polished off with our annual Christmas Concert at URC which was packed again. We thank our supporters in the town for coming along to our events – we love a brass band and hope you’ve enjoyed seeing us around the area. Thanks also to those who book us for their events, regular or one-off; we continue to enjoy a great variety of events and venues. We are also very grateful to have received a grant to help fund additional uniform jackets for further new members.

OLD NEWTON FLOWER FESTIVAL & ART EXHIBITION Saturday 15 and Sunday June 16 Old Newton is holding a flower festival and art exhibition over the weekend June 15 and 16 between 11am and 5pm.

The flower festival will take place in St Mary’s Church. The theme for the floral displays will be Art and Artists.

The 2019 calendar is getting busy already, with a number of concerts, weddings, bandstands, fetes, marches and services booked.

Our training band and various other ensembles within SCB are currently preparing for their showcase concert at 2pm on May 12, followed the next week by our main band’s Bavarian-style Oompah beer-night at 7.30pm on May 17. Both of these events will be at Stowupland Village Hall. Look out for tickets available soon; contact us via Facebook, email info@stowmarketconcertband.org.uk or call 01449 677924.

If you hope to book one of our brass groups for your event, we can cater for a wide range of situations. Please do contact us as soon as possible to secure your date in our calendar, or see our website for further information: www.stowmarketconcertband.org.uk

The art exhibition, featuring work by local artists, will be in the village primary school. Art work will include paintings, photography and textiles.

Through both days refreshments will be served in the school and will include ploughman’s lunches and tea and cakes. In addition there will be a raffle and a produce stall outside the church.

To draw the festival to a close on Sunday 16, there will be a Songs of Praise service at 6pm.

Entry to the event is free, but donations towards the upkeep of the church will be most gratefully received.

Parking will be available at the church (IP14 4PJ), the school (IP14 4PJ) and also at Old Newton Village Hall (IP14 4ED).

Contact Libby Brooks: 01449 775334 / familybrooks@btinternet.com

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OUT & ABOUT MONTHLY INDOOR MARKETS AT CHAMBERLIN HALL Monthly Indoor Markets are held at Chamberlin Hall, Bildeston IP7 7EZ. The hall is a sizeable venue with ample parking and hosts a range of stalls offering cakes, jams, pickles, game, crafts, beauty, homewares, fashion and much more.

We offer refreshments throughout the event which runs from 10.30am to 2.30pm.

Interested stallholders should contact Jayne at: chamberlin.indoormarket@gmail.com Future dates are March 7, April 13 and May 11.

Do come along and see what we have to offer.

RAFT RACE 2019 This year’s Raft Race theme, Now what will it be?

We thought long and hard, And decided on REALITY. What’s that about?

Cry voices one, two and three.

Your idea is probably different, To what it means to me!

We’ll give you some ideas, And hope that you will see.

The way some things exist, Can be plain, as plain can be.

Perhaps you’ll ‘Bake a cake’, Or ’Sew like a Bee. You could talk ‘like a Geordie’, Or someone from ‘TOWIE’.

Will you sink like ‘Jedwood’?

Or ‘swim like Tom Daley’?

Put your ‘Strictly’ shoes on, Or a dandy ‘Ice Dancer’ be.

Perhaps you’ll eat bugs, Like a famous ‘Celebrity’.

Especially if ‘King of the Rafts’, Is what you want to be.

If you want ‘Stars in your Eyes’, or an ‘X-Factor’ Judge be.

Be a ‘Top Model’ with a ‘Voice’, Or a contestant from ‘B.B’.

It’s really not that hard, We hope that you can see.

You can get lots of ideas, From stuff on the TV. So, the date for your diary, Is June Twenty Three.

There’ll be plenty of rafters, Who will fill us with ‘Glee’.

Food stalls and drink stalls, Support a group or charity.

Because Needham Lake at 1.30 Is DEFINITELY the place to be.

Find us on Facebook: needhamraftraceblog.wordpress.com

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THRIVE@THE MIX What a year! Thrive, The Mix’s alternative education provision in Stowmarket, has been open for just over 12 months and in that time we have provided more than 2,000 hours of support to young people from six 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 our comfort zone or discussing how to regulate our emotions.

On Thursdays our young people work alongside local businesses in personalised project-based learning to develop their skills, experience and leadership ability. This term Touchline, based on Charles Industrial Estate, has supported our students to design and develop a brand which has resulted in students manufacturing, advertising and selling their own clothing range. Feedback from students, schools and Touchline has been more than enthusiastic. Jamie Warner, MD and owner of Touchline, said: “We were given the opportunity to be in the company of some totally switched-on young people who all created some very unique designs for this project. They have truly proven that they can and will ‘thrive’ and that the future can be an exciting place for them. It has been a pleasure to have worked with them all.”

The Meadland’s Men’s Shed team have enabled some of our group to design and build a go-kart – every last detail of it! Our students have learnt so much from these experiences – both employability skills as well as developing their own personal skills and self-confidence.

We love working alongside businesses in our community to support our young people to thrive. If you have any project ideas or skills you would be keen to share as a volunteer, or questions about what we do, please get in touch.

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

STOWMARKET CRAFT MARKET Stowmarket Craft Market has been running for the past three years as ‘Stowmarket Artisan Market’ and has become a regular event for locals to enjoy. Initially it began with only a handful of stalls and now prides itself on being fully booked with an ever-growing waiting list.

It ended 2018 with one of its most successful years yet. 2019 is beginning the year under new management and with a new name. This was decided in a bid to rid any confusion and welcome even more local custom.

Our first market in March will welcome back many of our regular stallholders as well as a few new ones. The Scouts fundraising committee will be continuing to serve tea/coffee as well as cake and their very popular bacon rolls.

The markets are held on the first Saturday of the month at Stowmarket Scout Centre, Milton Road, IP14 1EX (located behind the library at the bottom of Milton Road) from 10am-1.30pm. Admission is free.

For more information contact Sherilee at: stowmarketartisanmarket@gmail.com

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11

OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET BOYS BRIGADE BAND After a very successful 2018 season, the Boys Brigade Band is looking forward to many return events for 2019. Among the many we have been asked to attend are Bury St Edmunds Scouts St George’s Day Parade, Mendlesham Street Fayre, Stowmarket Carnival, the Suffolk Show Parade of RBL Standards, and Haughley Fete after a gap of several years.

Later in the year are the events around Remembrance weekend with parades in Stowmarket and Hadleigh and with all the good comments made to the band members it’s something we all look forward to.

If you would like to be part of this band, contact or call into the Boys Brigade Hall in Combs Lane on a Thursday evening from 7pm or speak to any band member. Full training is given and we welcome members from middle school ages upwards.

SUFFOLK LIBRARIES ANNOUNCES SECOND YEAR OF SKULDUGGERY

Don’t miss our ever-popular event with great people, great tunes, great dancing… and the beer is great too at only £3.50 a pint.

Saturday, March 23, 7.3pm-late at The John Peel Centre 7.30-9.30pm: VINYL SHARE Two hours of your vinyl being played by our DJ. Bring a couple of your favourite tracks and we’ll do our best to play them.

9.30-late: VINYL PARTY Dance the night away! Our own and guest DJs playing more requests and classic vinyl from all genres.

Suffolk’s newest crime festival returns for a second year from April 2629. Guests this year include Stella Duffy, Sophie Hannah and crimewriting duo Nicci French (Nicci Gerrard and Sean French). Talks range from writing murder mysteries to discussions on how to get involved in crime fiction. There will also be a talk on how to self-publish and supportive guidance on how to take those first steps into getting your book to print.

£3 admission in aid of The John Peel Centre

Tickets will be on sale online and at Stowmarket Library from March 1. Individual author talks are £5 unless otherwise stated; full day £20 or £25 including buffet lunch; Saturday and Sunday ticket £35 or £45 including buffet lunches.

No vinyl? No problem, we’ve got loads!

For more details on this event, please visit: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/events-activities/skulduggery-in-stowmarket

WORK ALONG THE RIVER GIPPING After closure of the Stowmarket Navigation in 1934 there followed many years of neglect, which resulted in the navigation becoming impassable and in some places, little better than an open drain.

The River Gipping Trust was formed just over 10 years ago to help preserve the historic heritage of the Stowmarket Navigation by restoring the structures that enabled navigation of the River Gipping from the centre of Stowmarket to the docks in Ipswich and to care for the flora and fauna of The Gipping Valley. Over the last few years, members of the River Gipping Trust have put in tens of thousands of hours of volunteer work along the river. Much restoration work on the four locks between Needham Market and Baylham has been done, but there is still much more to do. Three of the locks are virtually complete, ready for lock gates. The Trust is hoping to complete work on the fourth (at Pipps Ford) this year, so it too will be ready for lock gates.

Over the next couple of years the Trust is planning to build a new footbridge across the river near Baylham and thus restore the original footpath route alongside the river bank (its current route is away from the river, next to the railway line). Discussions with the landowners to build the bridge, with a permissive path to it are ongoing, and the Trust needs to raise the necessary funds for the bridge material. Our team of volunteers will carry out bridge installation works. Work has already commenced on the permissive path alongside the river leading to the bridge.

Scared of missing out? Advance tickets available at the same price at the JPC box office.

So, join us for a unique night in an environment like no other! Get into the attic, dust off your records and bring them down to the iconic John Peel Centre for Creative Arts in Stowmarket and have a boogie.

Find us on Facebook: The Vinyl Lounge at the John Peel Centre

BACTON & COTTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Tuesday, March 19, Bacton Village Hall: Gravestones and Curiosities in Suffolk Churchyards Robert Halliday has roamed Suffolk seeking unusual stories and historical events. Among others he has written unique studies of famous people’s gravestones and the history of gravestones in Suffolk.

Members £2, non-members £3.

NEEDHAM MARKET SOCIETY The society had a merry old meeting in January when Mike Garland and Mick Reeve came to talk, dance and make music in the English Morris Dance tradition. We learned that although Morris dancing and the music could be traced back at least to medieval times, it had fallen into disfavour until the Victorian revival towards the end of the nineteenth century. Now, of course, the traditional dances (and new) are a great source of fun and entertainment all over the country. Mike explained his costume as he donned it, with bells the final touch, and did some sprightly dancing accompanied by Michael on his button accordion.

On July 19 we plan to make a visit to see and hear about the amazing church roof at Huntingfield. This will be under one’s own steam by car, or limited places by mini-bus. We are happy to take provisional bookings. There will be a small fee, but information about tickets and times will be circulated later.

Our next meeting is at Needham Market Community Centre on March 20 at 7.30pm when Adam Green will talk on hats and hat making. Adam is a designer of wonderful theatrical hats. All are welcome, visitors £3, annual membership £7.50.

Find our more at: www.rivergippingtrust.org.uk

The committee has submitted comments to MSDC concerning the proposed plans for the former MSDC site and land, namely; objecting to additions to the modern block attached to Hurstlea House, the alarming disappearance of the historically important horse pond under a block of flats, and the lack of detail concerning the fate of the gates and pillars which perhaps once formed the entrance to the park and are now at the car park entrance.

Facebook: River Gipping Trust

For any further information, please contact Andrea Davies: 01449 721056

If you would like to join our work party please contact Martin Bird on 01394 380765.

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Monday, March 18: Bring and Show Evening. Members share their own collections. Please bring along any local history items you would like to share with the group.

Monday, April 15: The Archaeology of the East Anglian ONE Cable Route

by Andy Peachey. A new off-shore wind farm has required the instillation of a new underground power cable along the valley of the Deben, which has allowed archaeologists to observe an unparalleled slice through a landscape that has hitherto seen little investigation, before the land was restored to its original state.

The investigations have revealed a striking array of archaeological finds that will change the way the history of this part of east Suffolk is viewed, Including a vast Neolithic monument with a wooden trackway that dates back to the beginning of agriculture in Britain, field systems and occupation that began in the Bronze Age and continues to be reflected in the landscape today, and lost Roman farming communities that continue to become an early Saxon village.

Meetings are held at 7.30pm at Hillside Community Centre, Stowmarket IP14 2BD. Members £1, non-members £3.50.

For further details contact Jeannette Baldry: 01449 675271 www.stowmarket-history.co.uk

STOWMARKET MEADLANDS MEN’S SHED On Tuesday, January 29, Stowmarket Meadlands Men’s Shed was privileged to welcome Chris Booth FRCS, the Clinical Director of CHAPS (The Men’s Health Charity), to deliver a presentation at the shed about our health in general, with an emphasis for the need for regular PSA testing. Following the success of this presentation the shed are investigating the possibility of introducing additional health presentations during our social Tuesday sessions e.g. diabetes and dementia. We are also attempting to establish links with our local healthcare practitioners. It is a known fact that men don’t go to the doctor or nurse unless their condition is critical, so hopefully we can bring professional practitioners to talk to us about the need to take appropriate action when required.

Due to our regular articles in the In Touch, we are receiving more membership interest in the workshop. Please feel free to come along for a hot drink and a natter to see whether this workshop would be for you. You don’t require any particular skills and we are a friendly group of people.

After our presentation in January we were delighted to be awarded a cheque for £200 from the Rotary Club of Stowmarket Gipping Valley.

This money will pay for our waste bins to be emptied for a year. The cheque was presented by Jeff Stern and received by Alan Page.

Jeff Stern said: “This is the start of closer collaboration between the Rotary Club of Stowmarket Gipping Valley and the Meadlands Men’s Shed as both organisations have similar aims, but different methods of getting people together in fellowship.”

Please contact us on – contact@stowmarketmenshed.co.uk / 07894 548706 – or like our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MeadlandsMensShed Or pop in to see us at the workshop on Monday mornings, Wednesday afternoons or Saturday mornings. We will be pleased to see you and welcome men and women.

Our workshop is on the Stowmarket Meadlands Recreation Club car park (Postcode IP14 2PR).

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB STOWMARKET SUGARCRAFT CLUB On January 14 David Steel gave our members a very interesting talk on People Pictures. His ideas and tips on taking portraits, wedding pictures, street photography, carnivals and people in general made for an enjoyable and informative evening.

Our first meeting of the new year was well attended with members coming to see Glenda, our chairlady, doing the demonstration as is usual for our January meeting. This means we don’t have a problem with visiting demonstrators getting to us if the weather is wintery.

On January 28 we welcomed Framlingham and Wymondham Camera Clubs for our annual tripod competition. The results were very close:

Glenda demonstrated a sponge cake made to look like a rose, not by putting a flower on the top but actually turning the whole sponge into a large flower.

This proved to be a lovely cake that could be achieved with a little practise and surprisingly didn’t require any specialist equipment so was of interest to novice cake makers and experienced old hands. It was a pleasant evening with lots of chat and laughter.

Stowmarket Framlingham Wymondham

Prints

152

148

145

PDIs

148

146

156

TOTAL

300

294

301

Well done to the winners, Wymondham, and thank you to both clubs for making the journey to Stowmarket on such a bad evening. We would also to thank Alan Sarsby for stepping into the breach as judge when the judge booked for the event was unable to make it at the last minute.

Monday, March 11: Open Competition 4 to be judged by Frank Blyth CPAGB BPE1 Monday, March 25: As I See It, an interactive talk with Roy Fidler Monday, April 8: Colin Stubley Shield (Portraiture) & A/V Trophy / Judge: Andy Wilson LRPS Monday, April 16: Granville Foulger Trophy, East Ipswich Camera Club / Judge: Vic Hainsworth ARPS DPAGB You don’t have to be an expert photographer to be welcomed as a member of the club. All you need is an interest in photography. Our aim is to encourage you to develop your interest and skills, as well as to provide a place to meet a range of friendly people who share your interest.

New members are always very welcome at the club. All you need is a camera – any camera – and a real interest in using it. Our members use DSLRs, mirrorless, compacts and bridge cameras.

Regular meetings are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD, usually on the second the 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?

For more information visit: www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net

Our speaker in February was an old friend of the club, Linda Garnham. Linda is a nationally known demonstrator and competition judge and highly regarded in the sugarcraft world. She has demonstrated for us many times and her visits are much anticipated.

Visitors are always welcome so please come along if you are interested.

For more information either contact Glenda on 01449 615382 or visit: www.stowmarketsugarcraft.co.uk

STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday, March 6: Caravans by Geoffrey Kay Geoffrey has made a Reading type caravan. This illustrated lecture tells the personal story behind the research and the making – and the search for a suitable horse!

Wednesday, April 3: Suffolk Cloth Industry by Dr Nicholas Amor South Suffolk villages such as Lavenham and Long Melford are well-known as centres of wool production in the Middle Ages. The talk looks at the heyday of this local industry. Dr Nick Amor is chairman of the Suffolk Institute of Archaeology and History and an honorary fellow of the University of East Anglia. He is author of Medieval Ipswich: Trade and Industry and From Wool to Cloth: The Triumph of the Suffolk Clothier.

Wednesday, May 1: Inn Signs by John Goodhand John’s hobby is photographing inn signs. In this introduction to the subject he looks at their meaning and origin.

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 visitors.

For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386

VILLAGE GREENS I expect that we all have an image of what a village green is – a grassed meadow or field, with perhaps somewhere to sit and enjoy the day, or play games and participate in recreational activities.

A recent case, however, has highlighted that a village green can be something quite different.

This case was centred on an area of land adjacent to the River Stour in neighbouring Essex. Here, a wharf was used for loading and unloading cargo, but it was also used by members of the public.

There is a legal definition of what constitutes a village green. One of the criteria for defining a village green is that it must be used without the owner’s consent for “lawful sports or pastimes”.

Therefore, it is not necessarily what the land looks like which determines whether it is a village green, but more what is has been used for, and whether there has been permission to do so from the owner. There is certainly no requirement for it to be a grassed meadow or field – though of course many are.

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In this case, the area of industrial land was used by members of the public for over 20 years for the purpose of walking, taking dogs for a walk, and perhaps socialising.

This case also illustrates that in order for land to be classed as a village green, the activities carried out by members of the public do not necessarily have to be substantial.

The owner of the land tried to argue that this use was with implied permission, which failed. It was decided that there has to be something more positive than mere tolerance, in order for the owner to have given consent.

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

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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

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

Providing Health Care to the Community for over 35 years.

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

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OUT & ABOUT HAVE THE LAST LAFT WITH YOUR BACK PAIN Recently one of my patients said their friend had slipped a disc. There was no formal diagnosis; they just they heard and felt something pop in their back. The truth is discs will never slip! Poor education to many health practitioners in the past has meant that they have in turn poorly educated their patients about what’s actually going on with their backs.

People often misconceive that their discs are free floating in the back and can easily move like a Frisbee. Really we shouldn’t even call them discs – calling them ‘living adaptive force transducers’ (LAFTs) would be a much more accurate description of them.

LAFTs blend into the spinal bones above and below them and are super strong – it’s really difficult to actually damage them and there is no way they can slip out of place. Their job is to help transfer load across and along the spine and act like a pneumatic cushion which allows us to bend and move in lots of different directions.

The mere wording ‘slipped disc’ gives rise to connotations of discs popping out of place and sliding to places where they shouldn’t be. One patient even once told me they thought that it must have slipped down into their leg as their pain had travelled down the leg.

These strong adjectives can often be enough to stop people moving properly and create a lot of fear and anxiety.

Some wear and tear within our body is a perfectly normal process as we get older – you wouldn’t expect a 30-year-old car to look as good as it first came off the production line, but it can still work really well. Sometimes we can cause some damage to a LAFT and they can release chemicals that irritate nerves, but there are also lots of other tissues we can also injure or irritate around the back too.

WOMEN’S SECTION ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, STOWMARKET Our first meeting of 2019 was on January 16 at the RBL Club. There were 24 members and some apologies. After the exhortation we were asked to remember those who had passed away during the previous year in our silent tribute. Sue then welcomed Julie Moore, our speaker and demonstrator for the evening. Julie works at the library and brought along some books no longer in their system and demonstrated the art of book folding. We were then all able to have a go, either at a ‘star’ using a hardback book, or a ‘candle’ using paperback books. The silence was notable as everyone concentrated on their measuring and folding. There wasn’t time to finish so we were able to take them home to complete. Julie then judged our efforts with Sheila M first, Muriel second and Carole P third. Shirley thanked Julie for what was a very enjoyable evening.

Minutes of the previous meeting, which was in November, were read out and also our new treasurer, Brenda Mc, presented details of our bank balances.

Our stall at the RBL table top event in December was very well supported and added to our funds. Sue thanked members who had contributed to the box for donations to the Foodbank. This will continue. Membership cards are now being sent out.

Our March meeting will have Lynda demonstrating and members participating in making Easter cards.

JUMBLE SALE We are holding a Jumble Sale on March 9 at 2pm at Hillside, Combs Ford. Any donations for any of the stalls will be most welcome, and help on the day too.

We meet on the third Wednesday of the month at the RBL Club and new members are always welcome. You don’t have to be ex-service related as the meetings are open to all ladies. We have a varied programme and outings which include an all-day mystery trip, a fish and chips evening and also a day out in August.

Lynda Farr

Although very painful and very debilitating, all back pain issues have the potential to get fully better. The majority of people who have back pain can get better and return to a full life of doing everything they wish to.

In the early stages of back pain, keeping moving as you are able to within your pain limits is vital to keep the joints and muscles supple and help prevent them getting lazy and weak where they will give you less support and protection for the rest of your back.

An assessment to identify the cause of the problem and to advise you on the best course of action is very sensible. You can then do things that will assist Mother Nature in getting you recovered quicker and know that you are not doing things that could make things worse.

Some treatment to loosen up joints, muscles and help reduce your pain can be very beneficial if you are suffering from back pain.

Most importantly, be reassured that your back is super strong and you don’t need to fear it if it gets painful at times in your life.

Robert Grainger MSc MCSP MHPC CSCS Sports Physiotherapist Practice Principal PhysioFixx Physiotherapy Clinic

STOWMARKET BRANCH It’s hard to believe that we are writing for the March edition of In Touch.

Our Branch doesn’t meet in January so February was our first meeting in 2019 when we were very pleased to welcome one of our own members, Bob Bailey, as our speaker. Having been involved, for several years, with Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline, Bob and his wife have opened their house to some of the children brought over by the charity for a holiday.

The first part of Bob’s talk was to explain what happened at the time of the Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster in 1986. He then went on to tell us of his experiences when visiting Belarus with the charity to help very needy families.

Bob was able to help with some electrical work along with many other jobs.

He was absolutely shocked by the poverty being experienced in the villages and the visit to the Children’s Cancer Hospital very traumatic. He entitled his talk The Real Belarus. It made us feel very grateful for what we have here.

The meeting on Wednesday, March 6 will be our Annual General Meeting.

We have a full programme of speakers booked for 2019 and have several outings in the pipeline including a visit to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre at RAF Coningsby with a hanger tour, the Thursford Collection with a behind the scenes tour and a Waveney Valley river trip from Oulton Broad. A group of our members will be going on a holiday in May to the Isle of Wight.

We are always pleased to welcome any prospective new members. We meet on the first Wednesday in the month at the Royal British Legion Club at 7.30pm.

If you would like further information, please contact our secretary on 01449 676871.

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OUT & ABOUT ROTARY CLUB OF STOWMARKET GIPPING VALLEY Members of the Rotary Club of Stowmarket Gipping Valley visited the Meadlands Men’s Shed to hear a talk given by retired consultant urologist Chris Booth. Chris is the Clinical Director of CHAPS Men’s Health Charity.

He established the Department of Urology at Colchester General Hospital in 1984 and it became as a regional cancer centre in 2006. His main aim is to raise awareness of prostate cancer, cardiovascular risk assessment, AAA screening (abdominal aortic aneurysm) in men and provide free tests at various locations throughout Eastern England. He also campaigns for better NHS services devoted to male health issues.

After the talk the Meadlands Men’s Shed represented by Alan Page was presented with a cheque for £200 by Jeff Stern of the Rotary Club so that the waste bin can be emptied weekly for the next 12 months. Also in the photo are Men’s Shed treasurer Bill Bowden and chairman Barry Salmon.

Although it is called the ‘Men’s Shed’, female members are also very welcome.

The Men’s Shed organisation was started in 2013 and had 30 sheds dotted in various parts of the UK. They are now growing at between six and nine a month. The Stowmarket (Meadlands) Men’s Shed is a place where members feel at home and pursue practical interests with a high degree of autonomy.

Members share the tools and resources they need to work on projects of their own choosing at their own pace and in a safe, friendly and inclusive venue.

They are places of skill-sharing and informal learning, of individual pursuits, community projects, of purpose, achievement and social interaction. A place of leisure where all come together to work.

Jeff Stern said: “This is the start of closer collaboration between the Rotary Club of Stowmarket Gipping Valley and the Meadlands Men’s Shed as both organisations have similar aims, but different methods of getting people together in fellowship.”

The Rotary Club meets every other Thursday evening at the Cedars Hotel, Stowmarket and if you want a taster of what they are about, whether you be young or old, male or female, you would be very welcome. For more information contact Richard Tingey: richard@tingeys.co.uk

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB This month’s meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 27 at 7.30pm at Woolpit Village Hall, when Dulcie Lofting from King’s Lynn will give a demonstration entitled Renaissance. Her arrangements will be raffled at the end of the meeting, when refreshments will be served.

Our January meeting involved a demonstration by Vicki Hease entitled Twiggy Foam-Free Design. This was followed by hot homemade soup provided by members of the committee, before club members tried their hands at Vicki’s design, which just required an empty plastic bottle, some twigs and tulips. There was lots of laughter and a fun time was had by all. Why not come along and see what inspires you?

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS STOWMARKET RAMBLERS Sunday, March 3: 8 mile circular walk by Alton Water. Park and meet at Lemon Hill Bridge, Tattingstone at 10am / GR. TM137378. Leader: 07736 573243 Sunday, March 10: 6.5 mile walk via Bradfield St Clare. Park and meet at Bradfield St George Village Hall at 10am / GR. TL913592.

Leader: 01449 673131 Sunday, March 17: 5 mile walk in the Botesdale area. Park in the street in Botesdale and meet at the War Memorial at 10.30am / GR. TM048758.

Leader: 07905 282420 Sunday, March 24: 5 mile walk near Pin Mill. Park and meet at the pay and display car park at Pin Mill at 10am / GR. TM2063769. Leader: 01449 672168 Sunday, March 31: 10.5 mile walk around Shotley peninsula and by the Stour and the Orwell. Park and meet at the Red Lion Pub, Chelmondiston at 10am / GR. TM204371. Please bring a picnic lunch. Leader: 01379 783658

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT MONDAY CLUB The club continues with its programme of activities. After a New Year disco we enjoyed an evening of wood craft with Ed Walker. The members were able to make stands for pot plants and bird feeders which they very much enjoyed.

Another new activity organised by Ian was decorating and making paper aeroplanes. The evening culminated with a competition to see whose aeroplane would fly the furthest.

We had a craft evening to make Valentine Cards and then enjoyed a Valentine’s Dance with Yesterday supplying the music.

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 me on 01449 672123 or just come along on a Monday evening.

Lilian Fidler

COURSES AND WORKSHOPS AT ORCHARD BARN IN 2019

STOWMARKET WILDLIFE GROUP Bradfield Woods Winter sees the coppice season in full swing at Bradfield. Here woodlands warden Giles Cawston talks about what is a special time to be in the woods.

“The intensity of work in the wood really builds in late autumn, with the annual coppice season beginning on November 1. Coppicing is an ancient form of woodland management that relies on the resilience of our native broadleaf tree species to vigorously regrow after being cut during the winter months. Although, as I write, we are working from first light to last, it is a special time to be in the woods and continues a great Bradfield tradition. The hardest thing about coppicing is knowing what to cut and what to leave to become future ‘standards’ (the larger trees in the woods).

“The first job is to cut the hazel understory, which is bundled up and sold as coppice product. The next job is the felling of the larger timber trees which we cut and split into firewood, this is then sold during the spring and summer.

The last job is the building of the dead hedge to protect the precious spring regrowth from deer, rabbit and hare.

“Coppicing has been carried out in Bradfield Woods for at least 800 years and working, or even just walking, does make you feel connected to all that social history. But even better than that, we also know by managing the wood in this way we are helping the wildlife that depends upon this unique habitat.”

Wednesday April 24, 7.30pm: Urban Buzz Ipswich by David Dowding Ipswich has already come a long way in its journey to improve the local open spaces and parks so that the public can gain more enjoyment from them.

David from Buglife will tell us about Urban Buzz, a project that brings an exciting new twist to this with the creation of lots more pollinator habitats, colour and life in key areas across the town.

The talk will take place at Stowupland Village Hall. Admission is £2.50 including refreshments. The complete 2019 programme can be downloaded from: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/wildlifegroups

ST PETER AND ST MARY’S PRE-SCHOOL

We have planned an excellent range of courses and workshops at Orchard Barn this year.

Some are offered free and for others there is a charge to cover our costs. All courses are taught by well-known experts in their fields. Here is a selection of those taking place in the early months of the year: March 5: Restorative Fruit Tree Pruning Thanks to Orchards East and the Heritage Lottery Fund this workshop is free.

March 15-16: Hurdle Making Make and take home a Suffolk gate hurdle.

April 4-6: Shave Horse Make and take home a wooden shave horse, an item of equipment that will last for many years.

April 9: Introduction to Timber Framing This popular course covers the techniques and tools used in traditional timber-framed constructions.

Further details of these courses and workshops, including information on how to book, can be found at: http://orchardbarn.org.uk/courses Orchard Barn, situated in Bildeston Road, Ringshall, provides opportunities for volunteers to experience and develop skills in a delightful rural setting.

These include organic gardening, maintaining the Orchard Barn site, orchard and pond maintenance, woodwork and administration. If you would like to know more, or if there are other skills that you would like to offer to Orchard Barn as a volunteer, please email: carole.orchardbarn@gmail.com

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This is another busy term at St Peter and St Mary’s Pre-school. We have lots of events to celebrate such as Chinese New Year, Valentine’s Day, Shrove Tuesday and St Patrick’s Day to name but a few. We are also looking at different occupations and people who help us. We will be exploring these themes through role-play, craft and various other activities.

To bring it all to life we will be having visits from the fire brigade and a nurse.

We have already had a very exciting visit from ‘The Edge’, a very active rescued hedgehog along with his rescuers. They explained to us that they will feed him up until it’s time for his release back into the wild in the spring time.

The children had a prickly stroke, watched him turn into a ball and helped make his bed out of ripped-up newspaper. Great fun was had by all.

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SCHOOLS / SPORT COMBS FORD PRIMARY SCHOOL Take a derelict garden, add some determination and vision, a pinch of community spirit and a growing need for more wrap-around care, and the result is a fantastic new space opened recently at the school.

Special thanks must also go to Nick Gowrley from Mid Suffolk District Council for the Locality Award given to support the project. Suffolk Town Council and Awards for All also contributed to the venture. A winter ball and charity auction in October with AJ’s Legacy boosted funds and a big thank you goes to the organisers and companies that contributed lots and all those who attended and bid to make the evening successful.

In 2016 the decision was made to refurbish an old portacabin on the site and since then it has been a fantastic space for Buttercups Nursery and Combs Clubhouse, a wraparound care and holiday club for the children of Stowmarket. This has been a tremendous success and was soon oversubscribed with a huge waiting list.

Headteacher Russell Clark says: “We are delighted to have received funding to enable us to provide the new wraparound care building. This will make a huge difference to the school and the wider community. We thank all those who voted and were involved in sourcing the funding so this worthwhile project could go ahead. We are looking forward to seeing the new building being used to its full potential”

The school recently competed with over 3,000 community projects around the UK to receive funding for another building as part of the Aviva Community Fund 2018. After galvanising the support of families, staff and friends of the school to vote for our entry, we were advised that we had made the final round. A surprise visit from Aviva revealed that we had won the funding – fantastic news!

Combs Ford Primary School, Glemsford Road, Stowmarket IP14 2PN 01449 613112 / admin@combsford.suffolk.sch.uk www.combsfordprimary.co.uk

STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB

SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY

So far, so good! We’ve had a little bit of the white stuff, but not enough to have us looking anxiously at the dome. Wonderful it may be, as it keeps us dry and out of the elements for five months, but heavy snow is what we don’t want during the winter. All our activity continues as normal from October through to April with the only noticeable change being a slightly longer warm-up and less bouncy tennis balls.

A busy year lies ahead for the Scorpion Academy with their three coloured belt exams, two blackbelt gradings held near Scunthorpe in North Lincolnshire, interclub sparring tournaments, British kata and sparring championships, seminars, fundraising, the Golden Mile charity run, Stowmarket Carnival and plenty of other promo events.

The coaching program continues to welcome new adult and junior players, with various easy entry points into fun tennis. The picture shows the Saturday morning Disco tennis session. There are many different groups to suit all ages and abilities with rackets available to borrow should you be trying tennis for the first time.

For the past 29 years the academy has been teaching universal karate and kickboxing to the local community and has taught quite literally thousands of children and adults.

With the spring weather hopefully not too far away, I’ve been arranging several ‘tennis demo’ assemblies around the town. So far there are dates arranged for Wood Ley, Combs, Abbotts Hall and Chiltern Primary Schools with a couple more to fit into the diary. Look out for these when they arrive because there will be a chance to get some information on the tennis club and to take part in the starter sessions during the week.

The big news in tennis land has been Andy Murray’s second operation. This was hinted at in the last issue and he has since revealed details of the ‘hip resurfacing’ procedure. Essentially the hip joint has been lined and capped with metal which we are hoping will prolong his playing career. The only outstanding questions are ‘how long will the recovery take’ and ‘for how long, if at all, will he continue to play’. Answers on a postcard please.

We’re nearing the end of the winter league campaign with the last few matches scheduled to be played right at the end of February. Soon after this we should know which of our pairs are being promoted or staying where they are for next season. The last time I looked there were Stowmarket pairs right at the top of their divisions so an early ‘well done’ to everyone and fingers crossed for a final push to grab those remaining handful of points.

If you’d like any information on getting started please get in touch with me. There will be an ideal group for you.

See you on court!

Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham 07761 142372 / chris@chriscoaching.plus.com

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

Head coach Mark JR Trent has taught martial arts and self-defence in many local primary, middle and high schools and offers his skills to all education, businesses, local clubs, groups and organisations. Please do contact Mark to discuss options.

In 2004 Mark started the UFKKWA (Universal Freestyle Karate Kickboxing Worldwide Association) with just a handful of local clubs as the first members. After lots of hard work and dedication we now have membership in 33 countries and have well over 200 world martial arts organisations.

Joining is absolutely free, as are all of the services offered. We welcome individuals, clubs, groups, associations and organisations to join and, best of all, you don’t have to leave your current group if you are happy. You can gain our worldwide recognition as well, so it’s a win win situation. Please email Mark for details.

Some people see the martial arts as just a way of punching and kicking and fail to realise the incredible benefits of training. You get fit, strong and flexible, more confident and focused, have a better retention rate, make new friends, set and achieve goals, train to become a blackbelt or kickboxing champion, learn how to defend yourself and much more.

Our classes run throughout the week with classes currently on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. We are pleased to offer all new members one month for free and we don’t have contracts or staggered grading fees like some martial arts clubs. We have a very fair and open policy.

Our instruction team are absolutely fantastic and have a wealth of experience between them. So on behalf of Master Andy Lewis (6th Dan Blackbelt), Master Josh Trent (4th Dan Blackbelt), Master Dave Fell (4th Dan Blackbelt) and instructors Mel Walmsley (2nd Dan Blackbelt) and Peter Izzard (3rd Dan Blackbelt) we are very much looking forward to meeting you.

Please contact head coach Mark JR Trent (8th Dan Blackbelt) on 07708 644162 or email: scorpion.ufkkwa@gmail.com Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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SPORT STOWMARKET CRICKET CLUB Stowmarket Cricket Club’s preparations for 2019 are progressing well in readiness for our first game of the season on Saturday, April 20 when following three consecutive promotions, our 1st X1 take on Brockley.

As well as looking to recruit players of all ages and abilities, our 1st X1 are also looking for a scorer. Training will be provided and expenses paid. For further information, please contact Clive Witherly: 01359 240019 / wigg51@btinternet.com Winter nets are booked at Ipswich School: • Sunday, March 3 (7.30-9pm) • Sunday, March 17 (7.30-9pm) • Sunday, March 31 (7.30-9pm) Weekly outdoor nets will commence on Thursday, April 4 from 6pm, weather permitting.

Youth Cricket Our youth season will start with a registration/fun evening on Monday, March 25 at 6pm.

Weekly coaching sessions will be held throughout the year on Monday evenings and competitive matches will be available throughout the season for all age groups.

I am also able to provide some ‘breaking news’ regarding the youth teams for girls and boys that we plan to run during 2019: • Under 9 (Pairs Cricket – Soft Ball) League • Under 11 (Super 8s – Hard Ball) League & Cup • Under 13 (Super 8s – Hard Ball) League • Under 15 (Super 8s – Hard Ball) League Respective age categories are taken from 31 August 2018.

Fixtures will be published once they are finalised in early March. Meanwhile, it is likely that our teams will play home games on: • Under 9: Sunday mornings • Under 11: Tuesday evenings • Under 13: Thursday evenings • Under 15: Monday evenings So why not join us for two Monday evening taster sessions in April, free of charge? Membership can then be completed for just £25.

For further information, please use the contact details above or go to our website.

STOWMARKET SWIMMERS CELEBRATE AT ANNUAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Swimmers and parents attended the annual presentation event at Mendlesham Community Hall on Sunday, January 13. This year we had a fantastic response to our request for trophy sponsorship, which resulted in an additional 32 new trophies being presented. The club now has 30 swimmers who will be swimming a total of 172 races at this year’s county championships being held at Ipswich Crown Pools from February 2-24.

The club will be hosting its Sprint into Spring meet on Saturday, March 23.

Warm-up starts at 1.30pm. It’s a great competition to watch and there will be a barbecue to help revive flagging competitors and spectators.

If you would like further information regarding sponsoring an event, please contact Louise Benedetti at: stowswimadvertising@gmail.com

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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS MEADLANDS INDOOR BOWLS CLUB

STOWMARKET DISABILITY FOOTBALL

This is my first article about MIDC and is mainly aimed at outdoor bowlers who haven’t tried indoor bowling and anyone who would like to try bowling, especially those looking for a sport/pastime in which to participate, bowls being an ideal sport for everyone whatever their age.

Stowmarket Disability Football team is looking to provide opportunities for local people with mixed disabilities from Stowmarket and surrounding areas to join the current team. Players must be 16 years and over to take part.

So who and where are we? We are the bowls section of Stowmarket Meadlands Recreation Club and our three lane rink is situated on Needham Road, Stowmarket (next to the Cedars Hotel). It is open seven days a week all year round from 10am to 10pm.

Daytime and evening league matches are played between September and April at the following times: • Birdie League, 3-wood Triples: Monday to Friday mornings, 10am-noon • Rivers League, 3-wood Triples: Monday and Friday afternoons, 2-4pm • Herbert Rampling Mixed Pairs (one male one female), 4-wood: Tuesday afternoons, 2-4pm • Alan Pile Mixed Pairs (any combination), 4-wood: Thursday afternoons, 2-4pm • Roll-ups (social bowling): Mondays at noon, Wednesdays at 2pm and Thursdays at 6pm • Freddie Dew (Drawn 3-wood Triples): Monday, Tuesday & Friday, 6-8pm, September to December

Players with disabilities like the opportunity to play and learn the game within their community in a safe and supportive environment, and playing a team sport will boost health, wellbeing and self-confidence.

Each session will be relevant and suitable to players’ individual needs. They will build on their physical skills (e.g. agility, balance, coordination, passing) in mixed activities and progress their development in stages. They will form new friendships, share ideas and support each other in a fun environment.

As a team we take part in weekly sessions, friendly games, festivals, and charity games throughout the year. Sessions are based at Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre Astroturf pitch on Friday evenings from 6-7pm from April to October every year, and are organised and run by a FA qualified football coach.

If interested in joining in the sessions please contact Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre on 01449 674980 or Laura Worsley on 07801 532059 for more details.

Please consult your GP before taking part in any physical activity.

STOWMARKET UNITED REFORMED CHURCH

• Ken Wright (Drawn 3-wood Triples): Monday, Tuesday & Friday, 6-8pm, January to April

Around midday on 31 January 1941, a stray German bomb exploded in Kensington Road with the resulting death of a lady and the destruction of the Congregational Church.

• Freedom League (Drawn Triples): Wednesday at 7pm. A relaxed format league played either 14 ends with 3-woods or 18 ends with 2-woods. A point is awarded for hitting the jack and team formations can be changed at any time. This is a very popular league.

Subsequently the building which stands in Ipswich Street was built, now known as the United Reformed Church.

• Village League (team of up to 9), 3-wood triples: Any evening, 8-10pm All free slots (daytime and evenings Monday to Friday and at weekends) can be booked via a diary located in the bowls hall.

We are open all year round and a summer league runs on Wednesdays from 10am-noon. All other slots are free to be booked by any member.

For further details, such as membership costs and rink fees, contact David: 01449 613144 / 07717 940270 I hope all this talk of leagues and formats hasn’t put you off as we are really just a very friendly bunch of people who enjoy bowling, so why not come and join us?

Our next article will be for our current bowlers with all the up-to-date league positions and any other interesting news.

David Hindley

As a congregation we don’t keep the anniversary of that event in our 400-year history, preferring to remember when our church was founded in the town. This year our anniversary service is at 10.25am on March 3, followed by lunch and an afternoon discussion. This special occasion in our calendar is celebrated by inviting a prominent speaker. This year we are especially pleased to welcome The Rev Nigel Uden, the moderator of our General Assembly who will be sharing this day with us.

In an earlier issue we promised news concerning The Wednesday Club. This is our group for ladies which this year meets at 2.30pm in our main hall. From March 6 they have arranged an interesting and varied programme of speakers.

The Rev David Atkins, a retired Anglican canon, starts the line-up with a talk entitled It Shouldn’t Happen to a Vicar. You will be made very welcome. The subscription for the year is just £12 payable at the March meeting.

As we continue the process to engage a new minister, please contact our church office if we can help you in any way: 01449 675045 / stowmarketurc@btconmnect.com www.stowmarket-urc.org.uk

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CHURCH NEWS COMBS AND FINBOROUGH GROUP OF CHURCHES Friday, March 1: 3-30-4.30pm at St Andrew’s, Gt Finborough, followed by tea Sunday, March 3: 11am at St Mary’s Church, Combs, within an all-age act of worship and preceded by bacon rolls, coffee and cakes Bible stories, games, craft activities and prayer for ages up to 11.

We have accepted a complete ring of eight bells free of charge from a redundant church in Yorkshire and so cast a new First World War memorial bell and a parish bell to complete the 10. The original four will be restored and hung ‘dead’ with an electronic mechanism so they can be chimed each week. The costs are significantly reduced and we await final permission.

In aid of the bell project, the annual Vintage Cycle Ride will happen on April 27 from the Punchbowl, Battisford so please look out for posters. An open air drive-in film screening is planned for the summer.

If you would like to join us at our Curry Night on Saturday, March 9 and/ or Lent Lunch on Thursday 28 (in aid of the Bishops’ appeal for Kagera) you would be most welcome. Contact: combsandfinboroughparishes@aol.com / 01449 673280

THE SALVATION ARMY Violet Hill Road, Stowmarket Saturday, March 2: Sunday, March 3: Wednesday, March 6: Sunday, March 10:

Saturday, March 16: Sunday, March 17: Sunday, March 24: Sunday, March 31: Wednesday, April 2:

7pm SA Football Quiz Evening 11am & 5.30pm Services 7.30pm Live lounge at Costa 11am Service / 4pm Messy Church 3pm Band visit to Chilton Court 10am Coffee Morning 11am & 5.30pm Services 11am Service / 4pm Café Church 11am & 5.30pm Services – Mothering Sunday 7.30pm Live lounge at Costa

WEEKLY EVENTS Monday 9.30-11.30am: Funky Monkeys (Parent & Toddler Group) Tuesday 10am: CAMEO (Come and Meet Each Other) Tuesday 2pm: Over Sixties Club Wednesday 5.45pm: Kidz Club (ages five plus) Wednesday 7.30pm: Live Lounge at Costa Coffee (first in month) Friday 7-9.30pm: Café at the Rec Saturday 10am-noon: Coffee Morning (third Saturday in month) We have interesting and varied activities during the week and well attended Sunday Services. For more information, please ring Jenny: 01449 614133

CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET Methodist/United Reformed Church, High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP What’s in a name? March 1 is St David’s Day and you may have imagined that my brother, who was born on that date, would be called David. But no, he’s John because the firstborn son in my family is ‘always’ called John. It’s traditional, and yes, can be rather confusing!

Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC): 01449 711798 The Rev Rita Carr (Methodist): 01449 612619

However, there’s something rather reassuring about traditions as they create a sense of continuity and can reassure us that even though everything around us appears to be chaotic all will be right with the world – or at least that part of it where traditions prevail and provide stability.

Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday

On March 5 many of us will take part in the age-old tradition of Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday as we enter the period known as Lent. The tradition of marking the start of Lent has been documented for centuries and many societies eat pancakes or other foods made with the butter, eggs and fat that would be given up in the Lenten season. Along with an emphasis on feasting, another theme of Shrove Tuesday involves Christians repenting of their sins in preparation to begin the season of Lent.

Lent, which starts on Ash Wednesday – the day following Shrove Tuesday – has its own traditions and is perhaps most associated with people giving things up for Lent. Perhaps you may be thinking of giving up something for those six or so weeks before Easter.

While it may be beneficial for your waistline or purse to not buy or eat chocolate, wine or suchlike, I wonder whether you may like to consider also ‘doing something extra’ during Lent. Perhaps something as simple as smiling at someone as you pass in the street, donating to the Foodbank each time you go shopping, encouraging someone when life is tough, thanking the person who serves you in the supermarket, picking up litter rather than passing it by, donating to a charity… You get the idea I’m sure.

Lent is a time to reflect, and I hope that it can be a positive time for you this year.

Oh, and let’s hope that on St David’s Day the daffodils will be in flower!

Rev Mary Playford

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Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am (including crèche and Sunday Club) 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 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 Moosical Moo: Sing, dance and play for 0-5s, Tuesday from 9.15am-noon in term time Osteo Stretch & Exercise: Tuesday 12.30-1.30pm Karate: Tuesday 6.30-8.30pm Karate: Wednesday 5.30-7.30pm (term time) Karate: Friday 6.30-8.30pm 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

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Building it right Thinking about…

Your council can help.

At Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, we have a dedicated, independent and impartial team with over 100 years combined specialist knowledge in the construction industry.

Our team can help guide you through that all-important alteration to your home, whilst ensuring you meet mandatory Building Regulations at a time to suit you.

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

Want more info or a quote? Speak to one of the team at: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/building-control/ or www.babergh.gov.uk/building-control/

KITCHEN SALE 25% off for a limited period

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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

• Building an extension?

• Making internal alterations? e.g. removal of walls • Converting your garage?

• Creating an annexe?

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

Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning

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

call John Burch: 07870 347486

Tel: 01449 721441

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

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AIRPORT TRANSFERS

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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

www.keepingintouchwith.com/stowmarket

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