In Touch
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with Melton, Rendlesham & Woodbridge Volume 9 • Issue No. 4 • AUGUST 2019
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR When I roll out of bed in the morning I immediately head to the kitchen, put the kettle on and switch on the TV news. I like to know what’s happening in the world before my day begins, but it’s often quite depressing and sometimes makes me quite grumpy. By the time I get into the car to drive to work I need an antidote, which I usually find in music. However, earlier this week I switched on just in time to catch a programme on Radio 4 called The Pleasures of Brecht, a celebration of the simple joys in life and the story of Brecht’s much-loved poem that described them. Brecht’s poem, Vergnügungen, is a list of pleasures, moving from “the first look out of the window in the morning” via showering, swimming, the dog and “comfortable shoes” to “being friendly”. As I listened I began to consider the simple pleasures in my own day to day existence and my mood soon lifted. Predictably that first cup of tea topped the list, closely followed by my son’s face when I catch him watching something funny on TV. I also include a perfectly boiled egg, a free checkout at the supermarket, the smell of dinner cooking when I get in from work (rarely happens), discovering someone has emptied the dishwasher (never happens but I’m hoping my husband reads this), a perfectly chilled glass of white wine at the end of a productive day, chatting with friends, finding £5 I didn’t know I had, dark chocolate, an unexpected smile from anyone, running into a friend I haven’t seen for a while, finding the perfect pair of jeans, meeting someone who inspires me, hitting a deadline, new socks, clean windows, feeling included, cake… I could go on and on, but every day since I’ve identified new pleasures (and been forced to accept that I am a chocoholic) which I would probably have ignored if this hadn’t been on my mind. And that’s the point. We rarely take the time to appreciate the simple things in life but when we do we are likely to find much to be thankful for. I’m still going to watch the news, I want to be socially and politically aware, but I’m determined to acknowledge and appreciate the simple pleasures because it makes me happier. I hope you can make a list and that it gives you lots to be thankful for, especially when the news gets you down. I wonder how many lists begin with a perfect cup of tea!
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.
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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
NEWS DEBEN MACMILLAN CHALLENGE ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS TO GET ACTIVE
Suffolk businesses, schools and community associations have come together to challenge residents to get active on and around the River Deben in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support between 24 August and 8 September. The launch of the Deben Macmillan Challenge was announced at the Longshed in Woodbridge with renowned broadcaster and presenter of the film Life on the Deben, John McCarthy OBE as a principal speaker. More than 100 people attended the event including the Mayor of Woodbridge Eamonn O’Nolan, Mayor of Felixstowe Nick Barber as well as representatives from Deben Rowing Club and headline sponsor Ufford Park. With a fundraising target of £25,000, the Deben Macmillan Challenge is set to attract families, friends and sports club members to walk, run, cycle, swim, sail or paddle on or around the River Deben during the fortnight. Suffolk residents are being encouraged to set a challenge of their choice and will be able to collect stamps from cafes and inns in the local area using a Deben Macmillan Challenge passport booklet. Businesses involved in the stamp scheme include Ufford Park Hotel and 15 other local cafes and inns. The passport booklet will be available free of charge in each location and participants who collect all 16 stamps will be able to enter a prize draw. In addition to the headline sponsorship provided by Ufford Park, the Deben Macmillan Challenge is being supported by AMS (Outsourcing) Services, Spirit Yachts, East Suffolk Council, This is Suffolk, Meadow Lodges, East of England Co-op, Fenn Wright, Ipswich Building Society, M&C Engineering and The Anchor Woodbridge. Every year, almost 5,000 people in Suffolk find out they have cancer and there are at least 28,300 people living with cancer in the county. From the moment people hear the news they have cancer, Macmillan is there. Cancer can affect every part of someone’s life, not just their health. Macmillan receives no government funding and relies on generous donations from the public. Do something amazing today – donate or volunteer for Macmillan. For information, support or just someone to talk to, call 0808 808 00 00 or visit: www.macmillan.org.uk Suffolk residents can find out more about the Deben Macmillan Challenge on the JustGiving page at: justgiving.com/campaign/debenmacmillanchallenge Pictured (l-r) are: Adrian Smith from Deben Macmillan Challenge, Andrew Spencer from Deben Rowing Club, Anne Henderson, John McCarthy OBE, Debbie Radcliffe from Ufford Park, Louise Smith from Macmillan Cancer Support, Mayor of Felixstowe Nick Barber, Mark Sargeantson from Deben Macmillan Challenge, Alexandra Haswell from Macmillan Cancer Support, Mayor of Woodbridge Eamonn O’Nolan. Photo credit: Chris Flavin
We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe
Saturday 10 August is the advertising and editorial deadline for the September edition
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DEMENTIA TOGETHER CALL FREE 08081 688 000 email: SRYC. DementiaTogether@nhs.net visit: www.dementia-together.com 3
NEWS SET SAIL FOR AN ISLAND ADVENTURE THIS SUMMER Nature lovers young and old can discover more about Suffolk’s only island this summer with the RSPB’s annual Havergate Adventure being held from 10-12 August. Run by the RSPB Woodbridge Local Group, the Havergate Adventure offers an amazing opportunity for people to come and explore Havergate Island, its lagoons and salt marshes and encounter some of the wildlife that calls it home.
BIGGEST CONCERT YET FOR WOODBRIDGE CHOIR Woodbridge Combined Care Homes Choir along with Saxmundham Free School, St Mary’s Primary and Barnabas Pre-School held a wonderful concert at the Methodist Church in Woodbridge on Wednesday 26 June, which was thoroughly enjoyed by an audience of all ages. Featuring residents, relatives, friends and staff of Seckford Almshouses, Jubilee House, Woodbridge Lodge and Grove Court Care Homes, the choir joined forces with students in this lovely concert that was open to all the community. All of the choirs worked well together and complemented each other perfectly. The singers’ ages ranged from two to 99. The audience was treated to a selection of favourites with songs such as Cheek to Cheek, L-O-V-E, The Sound of Silence, Make you Feel my Love, Que Sera, Sera, Country Road, Who Wants to be a Millionaire?, with a finale of Sing. And of course the audience joined in too! The Combined Care Homes Choir is funded by Comic Relief and was launched in February 2018. The choir offers care home residents, their families and staff the chance to participate in and enjoy a shared interest and the opportunity to sing and perform, as well as to meet people from other care settings who may be experiencing situations similar to their own. Sarah Kopferschmitt, Head of Care at Seckford Care said: “We are proud to work in collaboration with Grove Court and Woodbridge Lodge for the Care Homes Choir. The choir has given residents of care homes around Woodbridge the opportunity to indulge their interest in singing in an open and friendly setting with other likeminded people. To have the opportunity to sing alongside other choirs and perform in public has been very enjoyable for all involved.” Photo Credit: Helen Landon. Copyright: Seckford Foundation
Now in its 31st year, the adventure starts with an exhilarating 20-minute boat journey from Orford Quay to the island. Once ashore, visitors explore the island alongside an RSPB volunteer guide who will be on hand to help spot them some of the birds, animals and insects living on Havergate including the avocet – best known as the bird featured in the RSPB logo. To make sure visitors don’t miss any hidden treasures, binoculars are available to hire for free on the day. At the end of the adventure, visitors can buy homemade cakes, snacks and refreshments to enjoy along with a well-earned sit down, before heading back over the water to Orford. This fun and fascinating wildlife event will be taking place on Saturday 10, Sunday 11 and Monday 12 August, with guided tours leaving every half hour from 9.30am until 1.30pm from Orford Quay. Advance bookings only and tickets are £15 for adults and £5 for under-16s. To book your tickets visit: www.rspb.org.uk/havergateisland Picture credit: Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com)
CUBS TEND TREES AT MELTON REC The Melton Treewarden’s efforts were boosted by extra manpower when, one Tuesday evening in June, the Cubs of 5th Woodbridge Sea Scouts Group came to Melton Recreation Ground to hold their weekly meeting and do a spot of community service. More than 100 saplings, which in years to come will provide nuts and fruit and shelter for small birds, had been planted during the winter and had sprung into leaf. Now they were being threatened by the vigorous annual growth of nettles, docks and thistles around them, along a narrow strip of land between the recently-reclaimed football pitch and the edge of Burkes Wood. Around 20 boys and girls aged eight to 10 wielding gardening gloves, garden forks and watering cans attacked the undergrowth which in the space of a single month had grown taller than the saplings, and taller than the Cubs themselves! A few hands were stung and arms prickled, but the little trees were given back their growing space before being watered with water drawn from a muddy rill, at the cost of a few wet feet. Finally, the Cubs fitted card collars (which they had previously cut from shoe boxes and similar packaging) around the bases of the saplings, to hold back the next attack from the wilderness. Repeat operations will be necessary for a year or two, but once the saplings get their heads above the vegetation they should be able to fend for themselves and the area will become an impenetrable (hopefully) small nature reserve. Many thanks to those who helped. Lindsay Dann, Melton Treewarden
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NEWS WHERE CAN I LAUNCH MY SURFBOARD? The bi-annual River Deben Association talk was delivered by David Kemp, Coastal Team Leader, Environment Agency (EA) to an audience of over 100 members. When a flood is forecast, the key time is the preparation within the 24 hours before the storm arrives. His fascinating account took us through the EA’s planning in the East Anglia Incident Room while preparing for the surge of 5 December 2013. The EA Incident Room (based in Ipswich) is concerned with a range of issues, including shipwrecks, radiation, drought, foot and mouth outbreaks and flood management. Through constant analysis of tides and data, its forecasters must take into account the strength of the surge, whether its timing coincides with high tide and a phenomenon that occurs in the North Sea called ‘amphidromic points’ – which operate like spokes of a wheel, with waves spinning off the spokes, contributing to the surge. Suffolk has 12 flood alert areas and 40 flood warning areas. Particular areas of concern along the Deben include: Bawdsey Ferry, Martlesham Creek, Methersgate, Felixstowe Hamlet and Shottisham. Communication A major task is communicating with the public. An increasing issue is the effect of social media, for example members of the public may go out looking for floods. Before the flood surge in 2013, one man wanted to know the best place to launch his surfboard! Sometimes road blocks are needed to maintain safety. Countdown: the day before the surge At 6am on the day before the surge, the tidal data is analysed to assess the impact on different areas. The evening news cycle begins by 4pm so that communities understand the likely impact on their area. Many people won’t evacuate without their pets. The day of the flood – 5 December 2013 By 6am a severe flood warning is issued, which results in increasing press queries. By 9am the Cabinet Office is briefed. Pumps and barriers are deployed. 2pm is the last forecast where the team can take action. VIP visits are arranged, which need logistical support. As the surge passes through, staff have already been deployed to the coast to observe and monitor actual tidal flow and flight observations are organised. By 5pm the press are clamouring for news and the first press conference is held in Wells – the first area to be hit. At 7.30pm the tide arrives with the increased power of the surge; it takes seven hours and 45 minutes to pass through the area. Although there was damage, there was no loss of life within East Anglia. The future The rising sea levels in the last 10 years mean that there is an increased risk of low level flooding. More resources will need to be deployed to minimise damage, but compared with the Netherlands we should consider ourselves lucky. In the event of severe flooding, their nearest point of safe evacuation is to Germany.
PETER’S PEDAL POWER PACKS A PRETTY PENNY A Suffolk cycling enthusiast who pedalled almost 300 miles on a penny farthing has raised close on £10,000 for dementia charity. Peter Berry, 54, who was diagnosed with early onset dementia at the age of 50, completed his six-day charity ride on Friday 28 June – along with a team of support riders – having taken in the counties of Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk and, briefly, Essex. He was cheered over the finish line by friends and supporters in his home village of Friston, where the ride had begun the previously Sunday. Peter, who is currently featuring on the Channel Four documentary The Restaurant that Makes Mistakes, undertook the challenge to raise awareness of early onset dementia and to raise funds for the national charity, Young Dementia UK. “It was wonderful to see how well supported we were all along the route,” said Peter. “People were really generous and it’s clear that this is an issue which touches so many people. Cycling is a passion for me and so to be able to make a difference and to raise money by doing something I love is a real privilege for me.” Despite his diagnosis, Peter is determined to live life as fully as he can and hopes that this will provide inspiration for those living with dementia and their families. “To receive a diagnosis of dementia can feel devastating – not just for the individual but for their family as well. It can be a really lonely place which is why charities like Young Dementia UK are so important for the listening they offer as well as for the practical advice.” To sponsor Peter, go to: www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/PeterBerryFourCounties
SPONSORSHIP REQUESTED TO MAKE LONGSTANDING ANNUAL EVENT VIABLE The 68th Open Air Carol Service will take place on Wednesday 18 December, an annual event which takes place on the Market Hill in Woodbridge. At the conclusion, Father Christmas arrives and hands out sweets to all the children in attendance.
significantly. Consequently Woodbridge Rotary Club is appealing to local businesses for help by way of sponsorship which will be acknowledged on associated print or digital media.
Woodbridge Rotary Club organises the service as a way to thank those who have supported them in their fundraising activities throughout the year. No charge is made to attend, however there are opportunities for those who attend to make a voluntary contribution to charity, normally a local charity that helps and supports young people.
As Robin Pivett, Chair of Woodbridge Rotary Club, explains: “If more of our costs are covered we will be able to donate more to local charities. In previous years we have been able to cover our costs and make a large donation, but this is becoming increasingly difficult and unlikely to occur in the future if we don’t receive any help. It would be a great shame after 67 years if the open air carol service was no more.
The event is becoming extremely costly to stage; this year sees an additional cost of over £300 as the club is no longer able to put its own road closures in place. Like many other charitable organisations, it has to engage a traffic management company to do this on the club’s behalf.
“If you feel you can help in some small way it would be helpful to know by November 1 in order to ensure your details are included in our publicity.”
This is a great shame as it means the amount donated to charity will fall
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If you are able to help, please contact Robin at: r.pivett128@btinternet.com / 07775 715733
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NEWS ANGLO-SAXON AXES
COUNCILLOR CAROLINE’S COLUMN
A crowd of curious onlookers had gathered to watch the first green-oak log to be split as part of the preparations for the reconstruction of the Sutton Hoo burial ship. The AngloSaxon ship will be constructed using as authentic methods as possible and this means splitting the planks from trees by using axes and wedges, as the original builders didn’t use saws. The effort of the Ship’s Company in moving the log, in driving the wedges and controlling the process under the expert guidance of Damian Goodburn was greatly appreciated by a stream of people understanding for the first time the efforts and skills of the Anglo-Saxons who built this magnificent craft for their king. All morning the anticipation grew as the sound of heavy mauls drove the wedges deeper into the wood until with a resounding crack the log yielded and cheers rose to the rafters of the Longshed.
I love travelling by bus for so many different reasons. For starters, the convenience, the view and the company.
Halving the log was only the beginning, for each half had then to be split once more and the resulting quarters riven again and again to produce the slender boards needed for further work. Planks produced in this way have special durable qualities that sawn timber does not possess. The AngloSaxons understood this, even though today the majority of people do not. The many present-day observers at the event were intrigued. This is what the activities in Woodbridge Riverside Trust’s Longshed are all about – activity to educate, to involve and to entertain. Their St Ayles skiff was being rowed on the river by the people who had constructed it. The beautifully-built Hoo Kanoo made by young people from Just 42 was being admired. Sae Wylfing was afloat and some of its re-enactors were active in the Longshed showing how to make items in metal, wood, stone, leather and bone. There is a wide range of interests to become involved with in the Longshed. Why not read more on the websites? www.SaxonShip.org www.WoodbridgeRiversideTrust.org www.WoodbridgeWaterfront.co.uk
FREE HEARING CARE EVENT IN WOODBRIDGE The Hearing Care Centre is holding a free hearing loss awareness event to encourage the residents of Woodbridge to prioritise their hearing health. Hearing loss affects one in six people in the UK and it takes 10 years on average before those who have noticed a loss in their hearing choose to seek help. Research has also proven that other than a reduced quality and experience of life, hearing loss can also lead to cognitive decline resulting in conditions such as depression and dementia.
What could be nicer than a brief morning stroll to a bus stop, hopping on a bus and then basically leaving all the hassle of travel to someone else? No worries about jams, parking, the stress of driving. I’m writing this article on the dramatic top deck of a 64. This morning I read all my papers for an important meeting on my favourite 71. I read and write endless emails on the wonderful 800 that shoots me home so fast. And the bus needn’t just be your mobile office. I’ve read book after book on Suffolk buses: Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, Janet Evanovitch, Dick Francis, Tove Jansson, Arthur Ransome, Dervla Murphy, Cao Xuexin. People, real and imaginary, past and present, and from all over the world can accompany you on your travel. Not that you have to have your nose in a book. What can beat the delight of viewing the town at upper-storey level? What a joy is it to see Suffolk countryside from a little rural bus, winding through cow-parsley lanes, looking at fields of wheat all golden and poppy-speckled in the midsummer sun. And if you travel on the lovely – sadly, all-too-likely-to-be-axed 71 – you get classical music too. And then, there’s the company. On a bus there’s always someone to talk to. Your fellow-travellers are such a mixture; it’s seldom you are not amused or interested by something that somebody says or does. On the bus from Woodbridge I’ve discussed windmills with a world expert, talked primary education with a man who was spending his retirement raising money to build schools in Africa, and listened to a woman alerting me to the loss of an old people’s club and urging me to act. I’ve recited W.B. Yeats with an Irish traveller, watched with delight as a swarm of pre-nursery children managed to board and negotiate sitting down with their best friends, talked ballet with an elderly dancer, and given my phone number to many pleasant, harried middle-aged women with tales ranging from carer woes to domestic violence to housing difficulties. On a bus we can share problems. Sometimes we can help to solve them too! I’m surprised that more Suffolk people don’t rely on the bus, turning away towards cars and isolation as quickly as possible. Yet this year there was 150 per cent rise in bad accidents involving cars and cyclists. Climate change has been upgraded to an imminent climate emergency. Traffic gets slower and slower. The answer is surely not to build – and fill – yet another big road. A northern route won’t help the morning commute into Ipswich. Getting people out of the one person/one car mind-set is the only way to stop our towns getting hopelessly gridlocked in rush hour. Let’s put our funds and support into friendly buses instead! Remember, it really is smarter by bus. Councillor Caroline Page
The Hearing Care Centre, a family-run business with 26 centres across East Anglia, will hold two special Hearing Care Days at Framfield Medical Centre on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 August. Complimentary hearing assessments will be on offer at the event, as well as professional advice from The Hearing Care Centre’s award winning team to help you hear to your full potential. Karen Finch, founder and lead audiologist at The Hearing Care Centre said: “Hearing loss is a real issue in the UK. More often than not it’s a gradual process, it’s not always easy to tell if you’re losing your hearing. Therefore it is so important to have your hearing assessed on a regular basis to intervene at the earliest stage possible.” To find out more information or to book an appointment, call The Hearing Care Centre on 01473 230330 or visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk/framfield
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OUT & ABOUT ORWELL DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY
EXPERIENCE PRAYER WEEKS Experience Spring, refreshed and revived – isn’t that something that most of us would welcome. St Mary’s Church, Woodbridge has recently tried to do just that, inviting people to explore new ways into prayer with their Experience Spring Prayer Weeks. The church was filled with a variety of prayer stations, with topics such as Forgiveness, Healing, Belonging, Togetherness, Hopes and Dreams and Giving Thanks – something for everyone.
Our talks, which cover a broad spectrum of art, resume on September 4 following a short summer break. The door will open at 1.30pm on September 4 when tea, coffee and a 20th anniversary cake will be served. The AGM will start at 2pm and Anne Haworth, a lecturer at the V&A, will present a talk entitled Porcelain for the Chinese Emperors at 2.30pm. On October 2 Louise Schofield will talk about her archaeological adventures in Albania. We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. With the exception of September 4, meetings begin at 2.05pm and last about an hour, with refreshments available from 1.30pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have available space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 so please contact Wendy Robbins in advance to check if there is available space: 01394 823807 For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY Monday, August 12: Duleep Singh – The Story of an Indian Prince in Rural Splendour at Elvedon in Suffolk by Stephen Govier The fascinating story of an Indian Sikh Prince living in splendour in a large Suffolk house, a story of pomp and ceremony with a tinge of sadness. How did he fit in with the British aristocracy, and what became of him? Meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion and start at 7.30pm. Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.
Although the event was set up with the children of St Mary’s School in mind, there were multi-sensory prayers that all ages could relate to: the scent of Oil of Frankincense reminding us of the power of healing, and the sight of bubbles floating high into the air representing our worries and concerns being lifted from us and carried away, Just two examples of a wide range on offer. Pupils from St Mary’s School and the Abbey School visited the church and explored the prayer stations in small groups. As a final act of worship, they coloured in outline pictures of flowers, leaves and insects that were then placed in praise on a giant poster of the Lord’s Prayer (pictured). The completed collage was presented to St Mary’s School as a reminder of this very special time. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and there is no doubt that this has been a good experience for both the teams of people who worked together to prepare the prayer spaces and the pupils, visitors and members of the congregation who made time to take part. As one visitor wrote in the book, ‘probably the most active church I have seen for a long time!’
A SUMMER OF STORYTELLING IN THE LONGSHED Justine de Mierre
CRAFTERS UNLIMITED For those who don’t know us, we are a craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a light hearted atmosphere with refreshments. We meet at Rushmere Village Hall from 7.30-10pm on the fourth Thursday of each month. August 22: Paper Folding September 26: Christmas Shaker Cards October 24: Knitted Lace Crackers and Wreathes November 28: Crystal and Beaded Angels New members are always welcome. For more details contact Emma: 01787 373850
ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND Monday 14 October: RSPB – 70 years at Havergate Island by Steve Everett, volunteer guide, photographer and presenter for the RSPB at their Havergate Island and Minsmere Reserves. This talk will be held at 7.30pm in St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath with more details to follow in the September edition. For further information about this event and the music fund visit: www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk
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Stories of rivers, seas and voyages will captivate audiences at a series of workshops in Woodbridge this summer. Woodbridge Riverside Trust has arranged professional storytellers to run 10 one-hour workshops for families during the school holidays.
Professional performer Justine de Mierre will run six workshops on Tuesday afternoons in July and August, bringing both local legends and international tales to life. Audiences can expect stories including a wildman from Orford, river dragons from China and piratical skulduggery from Italy. She will also perform some ‘extreme storytelling’ where she improvises a brand-new story on the spot from audience suggestions. Playwright and screenwriter Peppy Barlow and Rosie Walker, live interpretation officer at Gressenhall Farm Museum of Norfolk Life, will run four workshops at the end of August ranging from stories about the River Deben to the Odyssey and brand new tales. The sessions, which are being sponsored by Suffolk Cottage Holidays and The Arts Society Woodbridge, will be held in the John Gibbins Gallery at the Longshed with audience numbers of no more than 40 people. Tickets will cost no more than £3 with dates and times to be confirmed. To book go to: www.woodbridgeriversidetrust.org/events
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE THEATRE COMPANY AUDITIONS FOR AUTUMN MUSICAL
CRAFT, GIFT AND MAKERS MARKET Do you sell crafts and gifts, or make your own to sell? The popular Craft, Gift and Makers Market in Woodbridge on Sunday 13 October is going to be even bigger this year, with live demonstrations and music adding to an already successful event.
This November, The Riverside Musical Theatre Company (RMTC) will be staging a musical production of The Slipper and The Rose at The Riverside Theatre in Woodbridge. The Slipper and The Rose was originally a 1976 British musical film which was adapted for the stage by Philip Burley in 1984 and retells the classic fairy tale of Cinderella.
We are looking for new makers, crafters and gift sellers to expand the range of original and interesting items on offer.
RMTC are looking for male and female musical theatre performers required for principal roles, cameo roles and ensemble to appear in this production.
The range of goods is enormous – everything from home décor, natural clothing, eco-friendly products, fine jewellery, stained glass, hand-thrown pottery, hand-made chocolates, original art work, hand-made cards, decoupage, Christmas decorations and other Christmas goods, jams, cakes and more. If you make it, bake it or sell it, you can bring it to the Makers’ Market!
Auditions will be held on Sunday 30 June at The Riverside Theatre from 10am (for registration) until 1pm. All performers must be age 16 by the 31 August 2019 to be considered for this production. Those attending will be learning one of the ensemble songs from the show, Position and Positioning, so are asked to wear something they can move in. Joint directors Samantha De Vita and Martin Warden said: “We are really excited to have the opportunity of staging this charming musical. With its romantic score by Richard and Robert Sherman, it is a real story about two people in love. Enhanced by wonderful tunes, it is a story very much aimed at the family audience, retaining at the same time the enchantment and wonder that the Cinderella story has always held.”
If you make or sell anything, this is an ideal time to showcase your products to a new audience, and to bring in some early Christmas orders.
For more details or if you are interested in taking a stall or demonstrating your craft, please contact Siobhan Horner: shivgalvin@hotmail.com / 07879 561042 The cost is £25 for an 8ft table plus chairs (or you can bring your own table/ stand, etc. to fit in that space). Additional half units are £12.50, or full units at £25. Or you can share your 8ft space if you would like.
Rehearsals will commence at the end of August / beginning of September. If you are interested in auditioning and would like additional information please email: RiversideMusicalTheatreCompany@gmail.com
The venue is Farlingaye High School, Ransom Road, Woodbridge from 10am-4pm.
This production is by arrangement with Stagescripts.
RAF BAWDSEY REUNION
SUTTON FETE AND FUN DOG SHOW
RAF Bawdsey was a busy radar station for many years until its closure in 1986. Eventually the Bawdsey Reunion Association was formed and a reunion took place each year in Bawdsey Manor.
The biannual Sutton Fete will be held on the Recreation Ground in Old Post Office Lane, Sutton IP12 3JQ on Sunday 18 August from noon-4pm. As well as the Fun Dog Show, for which the varied classes (pippies to older dogs) will be held during the afternoon, there will also be barbecue food, a white elephant stall, a selection of crafts (in the hall), a wheelbarrow raffle, a cakes and bakes stall, a coconut shy, the children`s corner with plenty of games, a car boot sales area, a grand raffle drawn at the end of afternoon, plants by Katie’s Garden Nurseries, an ice cream van and refreshments – teas, coffees, filled rolls, scones and cakes which will be on sale the whole of the afternoon. Plus other stalls, making it a great afternoon out for all the family! Pitches for the car boot sale area must be booked in advance by phoning 01394 410331.
Attendance figures dwindled over the years, age related no doubt, but thanks to the committee and its administrator, Doreen Calver, the event was promoted in various HM Forces sources and 80 people attended this year’s reunion on June 1. PGL, who specialise in providing activity holidays for school aged children at Bawdsey Manor, kindly allowed us to use the manor for the second year running, a very kind gesture on their part. Members started to arrive at noon to be supplied with refreshments and the opportunity to find ‘old’ friends from the past. A welcome speech was made by Derek Rothery, who was the C.O. when the station closed. He thanked all involved for arranging the day and in particular PGL for allowing us to use the splendid facilities. This was followed by a lovely cold buffet accompanied by drinks. Several then visited the Transmitter Block, a museum well worth a visit with lots of information regarding radar. After afternoon tea friends old and new departed. On a personal note, I served 20 out of my 24 month’s National Service at Bawdsey. It was a fantastic station and locality. On my demob I decided stay in the area and found employment, eventually married and settled in Woodbridge. I met with Ray Rabbett (pictured left) and Rosemary Bilsby (centre) at the reunion. We had served together in 1960-61 and it was good to see them both.
WOODBRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET This month’s markets will be held on Saturdays 10 and 24 August, 9am-12.30pm at Woodbridge Community Hall. Throughout the summer we will have very locally grown strawberries, raspberries and other soft fruit, all manner of the freshest, most delicious vegetables from Newbourne, quiches, cakes, bread, jam, chutney, fudge... all sorts of treats! We also sell high welfare Sutton Hoo Chicken and other meat AND strong coffee and fresh waffles at our market cafe – not to be missed!
Next year’s reunion will be on Saturday 6 June, again at The Manor in Bawdsey. For more information contact Doreen Calver: doreen.bawdseyreunion@btinternet.com
We look forward to seeing you.
www.bawdseyradar.org.uk
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Geoff Moss
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY
POETRY LIVE AT THE LIBRARY
Summer Reading Challenge – running until September 7 Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, this year’s theme is Space Chase, an out-of-this-world adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. Children taking part in the challenge will join our super space family, The Rockets, for a thrilling mission to track down books nabbed by mischievous aliens! Space Chase will feature bespoke artwork from top children’s illustrator Adam Stower and will celebrate adventure, exploration, reading and fun!
Two well-known local poets will be reading their work at Woodbridge Library in early September.
The Summer Reading Challenge takes place every year during the summer holidays. You can sign up at your local library, then read at least six library books of your choice to collect special stickers and other incentives along the way – all for free. There’s a website to add to the fun too! Throughout August: Sale of withdrawn adult fiction. All proceeds go to Woodbridge Library.
Kate Foley, President of the Suffolk Poetry Society, has published ten collections of poems and is well-known across Europe for her live performances and workshops, often with artists from other disciplines. She is a former head of English Heritage’s scientific and technical research laboratories and is a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries. Pamela Job is also well-known internationally. Her poetry has been published in magazines and anthologies and she recently won first prize in the Cornwall Contemporary Poetry Competition. She co-produced an anthology of new poems on the theme of conflict to mark the centenary of the outbreak of World War I and another on the theme of reconciliation published in 2018.
August 1-31: ArtLib Exhibition of photographs by Kieron Seymour including seaside, nature and portraiture.
Kate and Pamela will be supported by music from Sylvia Fairley and Val Shelley. The event takes place on Thursday 5 September at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £5 (which includes an interval drink) and can be purchased from Woodbridge Library in person or on 01394 330855.
Book Group: Meets on the first Thursday of the month at 2pm. We will be discussing Conclave by Robert Harris on August 1. Please come along if you have read this book and would like to join in the discussion.
WOODBRIDGE & DISTRICT LIONS CLUB
Friday, August 2, 9.30am-noon: Cloth Nappy Library. Suffolk Cloth Nappies are a small team of volunteer parents who want to support local families choosing to use reusable nappies on their children. Suffolk Cloth Nappies offers free hire kits, so if you are thinking of trying cloth nappies then come along to Woodbridge Library. Hiring a kit will assist families to find the right nappies for their children, and to show them how simple the whole process is. The volunteers are happy to answer questions and provide information and resources. No need to book, just turn up. Wednesday, August 7, 1-2pm: Wild About Writing Storytelling Workshop by Dramatic Impact. Wild About Writing is a new writing competition for ages seven to 13. Write a story inspired by nature and you could win a £25 book token and see your work published in the EADT Suffolk Magazine. Come along to this fun workshop for ideas and inspiration to help you get started. The workshop is free to attend but please book with staff at Woodbridge Library as places are limited. Tuesday, August 13, 10am-noon: Realise Futures walk-in advice & guidance session for people with a learning disability and/or autism. To find out more about this service and what’s happening in your local area, contact Realise Futures: 07753 447607 / info@realisefutures.org Wednesday, August 14, 10am-noon: Veterans’ Coffee Morning. Open to veterans, serving personnel and families. Come along and meet like-minded people for tea, coffee and a chat. Organised by The Matthew Project – Outside the Wire. For more details contact: 01603 626123 / otw@matthewproject.org Caroline Page will not be holding a surgery at the library in August. www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/libraries/woodbridge-library
Woodbridge and District Lions Club has continued its busy schedule of fundraising events. The club held a hugely successful Pig Race Night at Hacheston Village Hall at the end of May with all funds raised in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospice. The evening raised just over £800, but the club decided to round this up to £1,000 and club president Roy Benton presented the cheque to Louisa Smart from EACH at our July meeting. Woodbridge Regatta is our main summer fundraiser and we are pleased to report that a total of just over £1,100 was made at this year’s event, which will be used for the benefit of local charities and good causes. We would like to thank all the members of the public who supported us by sponsoring ducks for our Duck Dive event, both from our sales in Woodbridge Thoroughfare over the preceding two weeks and on the day. The lucky Duck Dive winning numbers were: first prize 928, second 1389, third 430. All prizes have been claimed and special thanks to the winners of the second prize who kindly decided to donate their winnings to charities.
WOODBRIDGE PROBUS Our ladies summer lunch on Monday 1 July can be simply summed up as a lovely occasion on a lovely day and we send our grateful thanks to the staff of Woodbridge Golf Club who helped to make it such a success. Our illustration shows a Cog, a medieval cargo ship of the type that would have delivered our wine from the continent to the port of Goseford, a lost medieval port on the Deben. At our meeting on August 5, Peter Wain will talk about the port’s origins, its disappearance and its importance, a fascinating subject indeed. What could be better for a Monday than a social get-together, a lovely lunch and a speaker on this intriguing subject? Do have a look at our website where you’ll find lots of information, contacts and photographs. You are most welcome to join us for lunch and the talk, and perhaps you will decide to join the club. www.woodbridgeprobus.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT NEWS FROM DEBEN ROTARY All change at the top at the Rotary Club of Woodbridge Deben when, at our handover evening on Monday 1 July, Rotarian Chris Walker succeeded Rotarian Tom Griffin as president. We look forward to another enjoyable year of fellowship and community service. We have been out and about in the last few weeks at various events including Woodbridge Regatta, Melton Fete and Martlesham Village Day, where you may have seen our Rotary gazebo or had a go at our popular putting game. Our annual vocational award was presented to Anne Stevenson as a much deserved mark of appreciation for her long service with the British Legion Poppy Appeal. Anne was presented with the vocational service shield and a cheque. We were delighted when one of our members, Rotarian Peter Kidd, was awarded the British Empire Medal in the Queen’s birthday honours list. The award was in recognition of many years of community service with Rotary, and in particular Rochford House, mentoring and services to the village of Little Bealings. Our Memory Cafe, run in conjunction with Woodbridge Rotary and Woodbridge Inner Wheel, continues to flourish. We meet on the last Wednesday of every month from 10.30am to noon at Woodbridge Football Club. If you would like more details of this or any other aspects of Rotar, please contact Rotarian Martin Kenyon: 01394 386933
WOODBRIDGE CAMERA CLUB Woodbridge Camera Club is working toward the highlight event of its year, the annual exhibition of members work at The Longshed on Tidemill Way from August 9-11. For the second year Woodbridge Riverside Trust are allowing us to present our exhibition on the mezzanine floor in their prestigious venue overlooking the Deben Waterfront and Tide Mill. We are aiming to present more digital and printed images than last year’s amazing total of 120. They will be judged by Alan Sarsby, F25 Photography and Training. Last year’s print winner, Steve Stammers (pictured here receiving the winner’s mug), will be defending his title. We will also be displaying some of the images taken by members supporting other organisations such as Woodbridge Riverside Trust, Woodbridge Regatta, St Elizabeth Hospice and others. Robin Garrod
WOODBRIDGE ROTARY CLUB The end of June each year sees the handover to a new Rotary Club president. This year’s president, Sandy Hamilton, handed over the reins to Rotarian Jeff Dunn. Jeff has been a president of the Dovercourt Rotary Club so we should be in safe hands. In the past Rotary year Sandy saw the club distribute over £14,400 of charitable funds to worthy causes. These include: Banyan Tree, Bike Active, Dementia Friendly, Dictionaries 4Life, EACH, End Polio Now, Fresh Start new beginnings, Just 42, Lend with Care, Macmillan, Memory Cafe, Rotary Foundation, RYLA, Poppy appeal, Shelter Box, SSAFA, Woodbridge Shelter and other small grants.
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE ART CLUB
5TH WOODBRIDGE SEA SCOUTS
The club has had busy times recently, putting on an extra exhibition of Suffolk scenes to support Suffolk Day. This followed through to Woodbridge Regatta, and the club organised two art activities to celebrate. We now have two friezes of Hands joined across Suffolk and Boats on the River, which we hope we may be able to display in the Longshed at a later date. The plan is to film them and post them online. The club’s exhibition is ongoing every weekend until the end of September, from 10am to 5pm. It’s free and there are paintings, pottery and lace for sale. Part of the profits go to supporting the club. On August 3 the lace makers will be stewarding the exhibition and demonstrating lace making, so if interested in this craft come down to see them. The following weekend, August 11, the club will be having an Art Jumble Sale of art equipment, paints, frames, etc. This will be open over the weekend from 10am to mid-afternoon. The club continues to have its Wednesday evening sessions. Recently, a fascinating demonstration of the use of pastels by Jenny Mackay Windle inspired us to have a go the following week. Demonstrations and workshops will continue on Wednesdays through the summer. If you are interested in the club come and see us, or look us up: www.woodbridgeartclub.org.uk / Facebook
1ST WOODBRIDGE SCOUT GROUP
The past few months have been extremely busy for 5th Woodbridge Sea Scouts with five weeks on a reservoir practising sailing, kayaking, pulling and rafting with all sections taking part. We have supported another river clean with Transition Woodbridge and gone all out for the regatta. Volunteers turned out to help take part in a river clean organised by local group Transitions Woodbridge, a community-led group that aims to strengthen the local economy and prepare for a future with less oil and a changing climate. Together with the 5th Woodbridge Sea Scouts, supporters and organisers collected more than 11 bags of rubbish containing, among other things, a broom head, a length of carpet, pontoon polystyrene, fishing and nylon rope and cigarette butts. More than 30 people attended and covered various areas across the town including the other side of the river bank thanks to the sea scouts rowing over to help. Organiser Jane Healey of Transition Woodbridge said of the days result: “There were 26 bags last year so there’s been an improvement. I’m really absolutely thrilled, it’s different every time. Thanks to everyone who came and also to Jason of Rubbish Walks for recording the event.” 5WSS were chosen as the charity for Woodbridge Regatta and were able to collect donations along the river wall. This along with our annual BBQ, refreshments, cakes, raffle and boat rides raised in excess of £2,000, which will go towards the running cost of the group and our building renovation project. This was the first year we supplied boat rides to the general public which was very well supported by our Explorer section (14-17 year olds). The Explorers helmed the trips and helped manage the public. Explorer leader Jane Stone said: “The maturity and skills the Explorers have shown this weekend is amazing and makes us all so proud.”
First and foremost, a big thank you to everyone who supported us at our annual BBQ stand at Woodbridge Regatta this year. We raised over £600 for our group. The Scouts enjoyed building and participating in the annual raft race, entering two teams this year. They came a close(ish) second to Kesgrave Scout Group. We have had a very busy couple of months. The Beavers thoroughly enjoyed a sleepover at Blaxhall, getting up to mischief climbing trees and building dens in the woods.
Group Scout Leader Barrie Hayter said: “The generosity of our local businesses donating raffle prizes allowed us to raise £550 towards our renovation project. The event was so successful due to the hard work of the leaders, parents, grandparents and children.” 5th Woodbridge Sea Scouts operate from a building that was donated to the group in the 1970s. It is in need of major renovation to ensure the successful running of the group into the future.
The Cubs have enjoyed a crabbing competition at Woodbridge Quay, a litter comb at Bawsdey Beach, racing around Sutton Heath on their bikes, trying to find lollipop sticks (sadly no lollipop on the end much to their disappointment) and learning pioneering skills, including how to make rope and tie a bowline which is used in rescues. The Scouts have also been preparing for their autumn expedition. They were challenged to each spend £1 on food at a Co-op and to cook on the trangia back at the Scout hut. The results mostly consisted of a combination of sausage, tomato puree and pitta bread. We also held our annual AGM and family games night at Hollesley. We are always interested to hear from adults who wish to help out in one of the sections of the group. General enquires can be submitted via our website, Facebook page or by emailing: adam.scouts@outlook.com www.1stwoodbridgescouts.com / Facebook
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OUT & ABOUT / SPORT WOODBRIDGE FLOWER CLUB Our well-attended July meeting began with some retail therapy and a lucky dip, followed by a delicious lunch. We were then delighted by a wonderful afternoon’s entertainment with Julie Knights and her assistant Kay Vettes. While regaling us with tales of her many antics, Julia made wonderful arrangements in a number of base colours. As each arrangement was incorporated into its place, a stunning display was revealed to the sound of linked music and some fabulous moves by Julia.
DISCOVER TWO LOCAL WILDLIFE RESERVES DURING AUGUST Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Woodbridge Wildlife Group offers you a chance to visit two contrasting local Suffolk Wildlife Trust Reserves during August. On the evening of Friday 9 August, the group are holding a Bat and Deer evening walk at Captain’s Wood Reserve in School Road, Sudbourne IP12 2BE starting at 8pm. Parking for this walk will be at Sudbourne Village Hall. “There are many things to enjoy on a visit to this reserve,” said Phil Smith, chairman of the SWT Woodbridge Wildlife Group. “It’s a woodland habitat of ancient trees where deer roam freely and seven different species of bat are known to feed amongst the trees. I hope we will be able to help our visitors spot some of these as well as enjoying the atmosphere of this very special reserve. Dogs are not permitted on this reserve. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy shoes as it may be wet underfoot in places” Then on Saturday 24 August, there’s a chance to experience the power of nature when the group lead a Waders and Flutterers walk around the Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Hazelwood Marshes reserve starting at 2.30pm. Participants should meet and park in the reserve car park which is off the A1094 as you enter Aldeburgh (post code IP17 1PG). Phil Smith said: “This reserve was changed forever in December 2013 when a tidal surge swept in salt water which removed the river wall and flooded the reserve. It will be fascinating to see and hear how the reserve, which is now in transition to a salt marsh, is coming alive again with a different set of birds, plants and invertebrates. Dogs are not permitted on this reserve. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy shoes and bring binoculars.” Both walks are free and there’s no need to book. Donations to Suffolk Wildlife Trust appreciated. For more information: 01473 625630 / swtwoodbridge@outlook.com There are many events for all ages at Foxburrow Farm this month, starting and ending with family night walks on August 2 and 29. To explore the schedule, visit: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/events
DEBEN YACHT CLUB
Julia was heartily thanked by East of England Chairman Leslie Firman and East Suffolk Group Chairman Pat Stammers and Julia’s arrangements (19 in all) were taken away by the lucky raffle prize-winners. At our next meeting is on August 7, members will celebrate the 60th anniversary of NAFAS with a special afternoon tea and a visit to Helmingham Hall.
WOODBRIDGE CRUISING CLUB We didn’t need the BBC forecast to tell us that the weather was unsettled because following the breathless calm for the first cruise, gale force winds meant the trip to Ramsgate and Dover had to be cancelled and diverted to Brightlingsea. No castle with wartime tunnels to explore, but with the consolation of a jolly good Indian restaurant. We are promised that the jet stream, which apparently is the cause of the problem, will have shifted to its normal position in time for the main body of the club’s summer programme and, if this materialises, the flotillas setting out in late June and July for Lowestoft and Southwold, the Rivers Crouch and Roach, and the south coast should have some cracking sailing. Unfortunately some overlapping of the cruises means skippers have to make choices, but with an increasing number of boats wanting to take part in cruises and limitations on numbers that marinas will take, it does provide an alternative at a busy part of the season. At least the weather was good for Woodbridge Regatta and the club was full of visitors, welcomed in by the strident strumming of the club’s ukulele band and the acoustic accompaniment of the Flotsam singers. During the afternoon other musicians performed, including 10-year-old Scarlet who gave a very polished performance on her pink ukulele, and with home-made tea and cakes and an open bar there was a temptation to linger.
What to do with single use plastic? The club youngsters found the answer – fashioning rafts out of plastic bottles and bags. They then tried to race them on the yacht pond with mixed success. The winning raft, built by Ralph Fortmann, was a beautifully balanced craft made out of two plastic bottles for the hull, a plastic bag as a sail and a plastic keel. Something to do with the kids this summer, but make sure you take your plastic home with you! The raft race was just one activity at the Junior Regatta held on Sunday 7 July. There was also a Race Round the Island in dinghies which was won by Freddie Simpson. Thanks to Sam Fortmann, Steve Finch and Jo Marsters for organising the event. The flotilla has continued to prove popular with a near perfect sail down to the Maybush at Waldringfield at the beginning of July. This is a great opportunity for members who have done our sailing courses to practice their skills in a relaxed and fun way. The summer is a great time to get out on the water and the Club Regatta takes place from August 2-6. We hope there will be a good number of entries. It is an open event so sailors from other clubs can join in. The club continues to prove popular with lots of new members and the launch of a successful On Board courses for youngsters. For information about membership contact membership secretary Frances Alexander: 01394 385221
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The garden at the front of the clubhouse continues to attract admirers and is a tribute to the members who tend it with such care and skill. The plants here and in the gardens at the back, which are viewable only to members, are all thriving and give a bit of light relief to the otherwise rather dull brick flood wall. The Wednesday night barbecues have started again, but so far the cold, damp evenings have only enticed the hardiest of members. After all nobody likes a soggy sausage, even less a limp lettuce. But if the forecasters are right, and we are due for a massive heatwave, the more tender members will no doubt be encouraged from their cosy beds. John Warwick
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