In Touch News with Woodbridge February 2019

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with Melton, Rendlesham & Woodbridge Volume 8 • Issue No. 10 • FEBRUARY 2019

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

NEWS

My husband believes there are two kinds of people; those who see the positives in almost everything, and those who always see the negatives.

If opposites attract, we must be the perfect couple, so when Daniel played this song by Kacey Musgraves I’m pretty sure he was making a point.

It’s called Miserable.

Your heart’s as heavy as the stones you throw Can’t see the flowers for the weeds you grow You blow your bubbles just to watch ‘em burst For you it’s always bad to worse And you can’t win unless you lose You try to tell me you want happiness But you ain’t happy unless You’re miserable Your neighbor’s dirty laundry’s cleaner And the wolf at your door’s always meaner The sky’s still grey when the sun’s around But you can’t set sail if your anchor’s down And you can’t win unless you lose You try to tell me you want happiness But you ain’t happy unless You’re miserable I’m miserable Can’t liven up for the both of us We have enough for the whole of us If misery loves company Then I can’t keep you company no more He got me good! I don’t think I’m this miserable, but when life is going well, I live in dread of what’s bound to come, and it’s bound to be bad! I think it’s an inherited trait, but it’s not one I want to pass on. Is it possible to change?

I sure hope so because my New Year’s resolution is to prove Daniel wrong!

Melton InTouch with & Woodbridge Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

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

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BEAUTY AND THE BEAST AT THE RIVERSIDE THEATRE The Company of Four presents Beauty and The Beast at the Riverside Theatre in Woodbridge from Saturday, February 16 to Saturday 23.

Join us somewhere in Paris as we watch Belle, the fearless book-bound heroine, fight off the unwanted affections of the biggest posers in town, Pierre and his loyal companion Henri. Follow her on a treacherous journey through the creepy forest in the hope that she will find her father, the loveable Professor. He is lost and stumbles into a castle of enchanted misfits and a terrifying beast. The castle and its occupants are imprisoned by a wicked spell cast by the disgruntled Enchantress. The only way for the Beast to become human once again is if he learns to love and be loved in return.

With the curse in place and time growing short, something must be done to break the spell. Although they are all intimidated by the Beast, Belle soon arrives to make a bargain for her father’s freedom and gives them reason to hope. Her trusty friends Madame I’ll Pour, Tick Tock and Crystal Chandelier watch anxiously as Belle and the Beast grow to understand and befriend one another.

Can the disgruntled Enchantress’ curse be broken? Will Belle find a way to break the spell? Come and experience this fantastic family pantomime, filled with fun and frolics for all generations.

Tickets (adults £15.50, concession £13.50, children £10, family £45) are available from The Riverside Theatre on 01394 382174 and at: www.cof4.co.uk Neil Thorpe (Beast) and Ellie Clarkson (Belle) are pictured on the front cover.

Here (pictured left to right) are Simon Hoyle (Henri), Carl Friar (Pierre), Neville Woolnough (Professor), Ellie Clarkson (Belle), Paul Leech (Madam I’ll Pour), Neil Thorpe (Beast), Hazel Watts (Crystal Chandelier), Freyer Marsh (Tick Tock) and Kerri-Ann Lees (Enchantress).

Photography by Charmian S Berry

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NEWS WOODBRIDGE ELECTS NEW HONORARY FREEMAN At a recent council meeting, Woodbridge Town Council was delighted to elect a new honorary freeman, Mrs Jean Wallace.

Woodbridge has a roll of 12 honorary freemen. The vacancy occurred after the sad passing of a previous freeman. The vacancy was advertised and a total of nine nominations were made. All freemen must live within three miles of Woodbridge and have given to the life of the town.

Mrs Wallace was nominated because of the contribution she has made to the community of Woodbridge through her work with St Thomas of Canterbury Roman Catholic Church, Churches Together in Woodbridge and Melton, Woodbridge Town Museum and New Horizons Lunch Club.

Mrs Wallace said: “I feel really honoured to have been elected as an honorary freeman of Woodbridge especially when you realise how much the other nominees do for the town.”

Town Mayor, Councillor David Mortimer said: “Vacancies to become honorary freemen are few and far between and are eagerly contested. It is testament to the work that Mrs Wallace does that she has been elected to this very small and elite band. I look forward to formally welcoming her as an honorary freeman in the spring.”

FREE HEARING CHECKS IN WOODBRIDGE The new year is a notorious time for making health-focused resolutions. One local business is offering the public the chance to resolve any difficulties they may have been experiencing with their hearing over the festive period.

The Hearing Care Centre offers award-winning hearing care services from 26 centres across East Anglia. They are encouraging those living in the local area to prioritise their hearing health in 2019 by holding a series of free Hearing Care Days, the most local being at their clinic at Framfield Medical Centre, Woodbridge between 9am and 5pm on Wednesday 13 and Friday 14 February.

During the event, the company’s expert team will be providing free hearing assessments (usually £20) along with complimentary professional advice about your hearing test results and discussing possible solutions that could help improve your hearing. All services are available by appointment only.

Managing Director and founder of The Hearing Care Centre, Karen Finch, said: “The first step towards better hearing is as easy as making an appointment.

From that point we will do all of the hard work for you. From your initial appointment, you could have hearing aids fitted as quickly as two weeks!”

To book an appointment call The Hearing Care Centre on 01473 230330 or for more information visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk

WINTER MIRACLE With the heavy frost one morning I thought the rose was finished – it looked as if it was trying to keep warm in the freezing cold. Then later on in the afternoon I saw the same rose and couldn’t believe how it had recovered and looked unscathed. The temperature had slightly risen and the frost had become water, but the rose still maintained its beauty – and its scent.

It’s amazing how something so delicate and fragile in hostile conditions can remain so perfect and untouched.

Janice Poulson is the unofficial photographer for St Mary’s Church, Woodbridge. She has built up an extensive photographic record of the architecture, flowers, events and people at St Mary’s Parish Church, Woodbridge over several years.

COUNCILLOR CAROLINE’S COLUMN I’ve started to be able to walk properly again – not at my past rate, just a mile or two at a time. But it’s a start. And today I cycled a whole mile (although it was only on an exercise bicycle). It feels wonderful! You don’t recognise how much you take your health for granted until you have to do without it for a bit.

Talking to a very wonderful neighbour who started her medical training just before the NHS came into being makes me very aware of how lucky we are. Healthcare for all, free at the point of delivery from the cradle to the grave. It’s such a recent phenomenon for us to take for granted, to dismiss, to complain about, to object to...

A long-dead family member was widowed on his honeymoon about 100 years ago. His new wife died of appendicitis a week after they were married.

There one minute, gone the next! It’s hard to believe the powerlessness and despair he must have felt, poor man, sitting weeping in his boarding house in Southend, surrounded by his newly bought wedding finery. Or the sheer anxiety of women anticipating the danger and expense of each and every birth. Poor families looking at their children and hoping that the measles and diphtheria would pass them over, or touch them lightly – and not expensively.

When any accident or illness a worker suffered would involve not only the loss of wages, but crippling medical bills – bills that would have to be paid whether they lived or died.

It’s still pretty much like this in many places in the world. In the US, the most powerful economy in the world, a chronic medical condition can bankrupt you. We are immensely fortunate.

I recently ended up in A&E on a Saturday night, accompanying my injured child who – incidentally – has a chronic medical condition that would make her uninsurable in the US. There had been an unpleasant accident at home.

999 called out a magnificent local First Responder (you know who you are) in five minutes. The ambulance followed promptly. An hour of expert medical care took place at the house before a transfer to the hospital, where we waited – longer than ever before because of the continuing squeeze on budgets – for good tempered, kindly, overworked, fast-moving people to attend to her injury.

Yes, it was certainly scary – but how much scarier would it have been if none these services existed? If we were looking around in the dark of a winter night for somebody to transport and help her. If we had to provide credit card details before a hospital would let her in.

Good health is a blessing, but the NHS is an even greater blessing, one that we should cherish, fund and respect properly. Where on earth would we be without our health service and all the wonderful people who work in it?

Councillor Caroline Page

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OUT & ABOUT POETRY IN MOTION There is a popular poem called Two Roads by Robert Frost. It tells of a place where one forest path branches into two and a choice has to be made about which might be the best path to follow. When we make our New Year’s resolutions we may be at a turning point in our lives, not knowing where a simple choice might lead us. Here, with hindsight, is a seasonal tale that illustrates the potential life-changing affect a simple choice might bring.

Megan Giles was in her sixth year at Bawdsey Primary School when the composer of The King’s River, Jana Rowland, visited her school to tell the pupils about the production that was to be held at The Longshed on Woodbridge waterfront. Little did she know that this would lead to something that would have such a positive impact on her life.

So what happened?

As Megan moved into her first year at Farlingaye High School she saw posters around the school inviting young performers to join in The King’s River. Megan was used to being in productions as she liked acting and dancing. She had grown up around creative people and performing arts.

Her grandmother had been a ballerina in Sadler’s Wells and given her some private tuition, so she felt very comfortable performing.

Megan decided to take part in The King’s River and really enjoyed it, particularly the dancing. She realised that this experience gave her something extra special: the chance to dance under the direction of professional choreographer Caroline Mummery. “It felt intimidating at the beginning,” Megan said, “but I found that to be taught by her was inspirational.”

Then the unexpected happened. Megan was encouraged to continue dancing and to audition for a place at DanceEast. Caroline told her that she should definitely try, so Megan did.

About 20-25 girls auditioned to be part of the Suffolk Juniors dance group at DanceEast; Megan was one of those chosen. She said that without the experience of The King’s River, she would have never had the confidence to audition. Megan felt that some of the others chosen had much more experience and training than she did. It wasn’t easy for her at the beginning, but she persevered. “DanceEast got me,” Megan said. “I’d dabbled before, but now I go to two classes each week and I arrive early just so that I have the room to myself to dance.” Megan is doing hip hop and contemporary dance.

So what have been some of the highlights? Since joining, the group was invited by Energise in Cambridge to be part of one of their interschool events. There were about 20 groups taking part. Megan was proud that her group did so well – with the feedback being that they were ‘tops’. And later, DanceEast held a summer showcase with Megan’s group being one of those participating. In these activities, dancers have input into the creative process and Megan particularly loves this aspect as it gives an opportunity to have input into the choreography, lighting and costume design.

What will this new year have in store for you? Will you look back in future years to a decision that you take now and think, that was my turning point?

Nancy Clay www.WoodbridgeRiversideTrust.org / www.DanceEast.co.uk

WOODBRIDGE COMPUTER CLUB Want to know more about computers, smartphones and the like. Want to keep up with your kids/grandkids?

Woodbridge Computer Club provides a drop-in facility for residents who would like help and support using their computers, smart devices for hobbies or for family purposes. We meet at Woodbridge Methodist Church, St Johns Street IP12 1ED on Saturday mornings from 10.30am-noon. Attendance is free, but tea and coffee are available at cost.

Contact: woodbridge.computerclub@gmail.com / 07889 512216

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Here at Jetty Lane headquarters we’re starting 2019 with all systems go! Our plans for the new community, arts and youth centre in Woodbridge are all coming together.

As some of you will remember, early in 2017 we were given the opportunity

by Suffolk County Council (who own the land where the old youth club used to be) to come up with a viable business plan to build a new centre. Otherwise it was highly probable that the land would be sold off to developers and lost to the community forever. We swung into action as fast as we could, writing a business plan, choosing a design for the building and incorporating as a community interest company as this was the quickest and easiest way to move forward.

Now that we have overcome several challenges and the broad outline of our plans are in place, we’re at a good point to revise and strengthen our position, making our plans more relevant, more detailed, more up to date.

The first item on our agenda is to become a charity and we are starting that process now with help from our ProBono partners, Larking Gowen Chartered Accountants. Once we’re a charity we’ll be able to claim Gift Aid on donations and the pool of grant-making bodies that we’re eligible to apply to for funding will be much bigger. We’ll keep you informed of progress.

Later in January we’re expecting a decision on our planning application currently at the district council: once this has been agreed we’ll be in a position to get down to designing the nitty gritty of the interior of the building.

Do we need to provide more storage space? Will people predominantly use the centre for fitness and sport or for arts and crafts, classes and meetings, playgroups, concerts, dance and drama? Should we provide showers?

These are important questions: the more information we can gather about the needs of the community, the better we can brief the design team. The better the design team is briefed, the more suited to the needs of the community the building will be, the more suited to the needs of the community the plans are, the more fit for purpose the building will be and the more it will be used.

We have already gathered some very useful data. Following our recent survey we know that out of 157 respondents, 70 per cent intend to get to the centre on foot and 20 per cent by bicycle. We offered a prize which could be entered by people who had completed the survey. This was kindly donated by Claire Lalaguna of SatelliteMPR and was drawn at the Christmas Showstoppers concert on December 15. It was won by June Cowles (pictured). June was delighted with her prize and chose to spend her voucher at The Table restaurant.

Some community groups have been enormously helpful and have already given us a firm commitment to say they will hire our facilities. They’ve also been clear about what they need. But we need more! We’re now launching another short online survey. This time we’re particularly keen to hear from young people up to the age of 25.

We’re offering two prizes: one for surveys completed by children 0-14 years old (with guidance by parents or guardians) and one for surveys completed by 15-25 year olds. We would love to hear from as many young people as possible. The survey can be completed anytime before February 15 at: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/JettyLaneYouth Do keep in touch. We’re always keen to hear comments and suggestions.

We’re keen to set up a volunteer fundraising team; if this is something you might be interested in joining, do let me know.

Project Manager Cordelia Richman: cordelia@jettylane.com

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OUT & ABOUT RIVER DEBEN ASSOCIATION power to appoint an adjudicator to hear any objections. The Secretary of State makes the final determination.

Over the last three years Natural England has been consulting and planning with Suffolk County Council to implement five stretches of the coastal path, representing 146 miles of pathway. However, 85 percent of the trail will be along existing rights of way, so using 116 miles of footpaths which are currently accessible. The proposed plans are scheduled for publication in summer 2019 with a further opportunity for consultation. Works will then begin to develop new parts of the trail where there are gaps and improve existing pathways and rights of way. Maps of the route will be published in 2020, with the route clearly waymarked as part of the England Coast Path.

Photograph reprinted courtesy of Natural England Our meeting on November 29 was well attended with over 150 members present. Giles Merritt, Lead Advisor for Natural England Coast Path Development in Norfolk and Suffolk provided a lively presentation about the England Coast Path with a particular emphasis on Suffolk and the River Deben.

Giles has worked on the England Coast Path for several years, most recently in Essex. His talk covered current routes by the Deben and the challenges faced by Natural England in implementing the plans, local progress and the options for the Coast Path between Bawdsey and Felixstowe Ferry.

Giles explained that the England Coast Path was supported with extra funding from the government in 2014 with the target for completion in 2020. The path has a statutory framework going back as far as 2009.

The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 established a coastal access duty to create a long-distance walking route around the English coast (the England Coast Path) which should be accessible to the public on foot. Natural England is charged with its delivery and must adhere to the Coastal Access Scheme which ensures that a balance is struck between the interests of those who own the land and the public in having new access rights over the land.

It’s a challenging balancing act. Factors which must be taken into consideration include: • for the public: proximity of trail to the sea, views, safety and continuity of the path • for private interests: operational needs, income, privacy and change of use

Naturally, members wanted to know how specifically the proposal would affect our river. The Marine and Coast Act provides specific statutory discretion called ‘Estuary Discretion’ which applies to the Deben. Deciding whether to apply estuary discretion includes the following considerations: • staying in touch with an estuary ‘feel’ • the economic cost of maintaining and developing a path along meandering reaches of river • the distance up the estuary walkers may need to travel to cross the river • extent of “excepted land” e.g. ports, industrial estates • features of interest which would make an estuary route attractive to walkers • the existence of a ferry route A major additional factor is the protection from disturbance of wildlife, particularly in areas where there has been no footpath in recent use.

The three main gaps in the Deben Estuary route are: Waldringfield to Martlesham, around Sutton Hoo and Ramsholt to Bawdsey.

A number of people expressed a strong preference for Natural England to use the foot ferry between Bawdsey and Felixstowe Ferry, rather than have a path around the estuary. A year-round on-demand service for the ferry had been piloted in the winter of 2017/2018 with support from the AONB and other public and community bodies.

Suggestions were made that Natural England should contribute to the cost of running the ferry year-round, but Giles explained that ferry costs were not within the remit of the England Coast Path budget.

The Act also enables Natural England to respond to coastal change through proposing ‘roll back’ which will allow the path to be moved back if the coastline changes.

Giles is meeting key landowners and stakeholders such as the AONB Unit and working closely with Suffolk County Council to establish the best way forward. He also intends to meet the Environment Agency to assess flood risk issues.

Over the five year period 2015-2020 Natural England aims to have completed 65 stretches (2,700 miles) so the timetable is ambitious, but Giles says that Natural England are on target for completion within the time frame of 2020. The programme is required by the Marine and Coastal Access Act to undertake extensive consultation (with local interest groups, landowners and statutory and environmental bodies) on proposed routes and plans.

The decision on estuary discretion has yet to be made. As with all Suffolk stretches, a restriction on what is called ‘spreading room’, or directing the path onto saltmarsh and mudflats, will apply which will protect a very precious characteristic of the Deben. Publication of final routes on Natural England’s website is likely to be spring/summer 2019 and hard reference copies will also be lodged in local libraries.

The plans, maps and routes also have to be approved by the Secretary of State. Any objection raised must be discussed further with objecting parties.

These views must also be passed to the Secretary of State, who has the

The launch of the completed path in 2020 will follow the final report and it is likely that local walking groups will then seek to promote the walks as part of their programme.

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OUT & ABOUT ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND Monday, March 11: A New View Down the River Deben Valley – Prehistoric, Roman and Saxon Archaeology along the East Anglia One Cable Route by archaeologist Andy Peachey Andy is an archaeologist who has been working across East Anglia for the last 15 years and over the last two years on a major project, the East Anglia One cable route. This is a corridor excavated along the Deben Valley, through the northern part of Martlesham, before passing over Ipswich to connect the new wind farm to the National Grid.

He will talk about the amazing finds discovered during work for these wind farm cables. Earlier last year there was a lot in the press about the interesting and unexpected things unearthed by archaeologists, especially on a site close to Martlesham. These included an exciting array of new settlement evidence, including Roman and Saxon buildings, and an exceptional prehistoric monument, trackway and artefacts that may coincide with the earliest settlements and agriculture in the region approximately 4,000 years BC. Many very unexpected finds were discovered close to Martlesham and were featured on BBC4’s Digging for Britain on 12 December 2018

.

This fascinating talk will be on Monday, March 11, 7.30pm at St Michaels Church Centre, The Drift, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. The venue is fully accessible with adjacent free parking. Light refreshments will be available.

For further information about this event and the music fund please contact the Burrows family on 01473 625196 or visit: www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk

WOODBRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET Woodbridge Farmers’ Market will be held on Saturdays 9 and 23 February, 9am -12.30pm at Woodbridge Community Hall.

All of the food and drink on sale has been grown, raised, preserved, baked, roasted, fermented and made in Suffolk. We sell high welfare meat, freshly picked vegetables, local apple juice, jams, chutneys, fudge, coffee, ale, chocolates, quiches, cakes… the list goes on.

If you are interested in low food miles, high quality food, keeping money in the local economy and supporting local businesses then we could be the place for you to do some shopping!

We’re always interested in hearing from potential new stallholders. Any enquiries, please contact: woodbridgefarmersmarket@gmail.com

WOODBRIDGE MUSEUM AFTERNOON TALKS Work has now finished in the new museum. The archives and exhibits have been moved into the building and the displays are being assembled. This is a very exciting time and all is on target for the opening on April 6. The large exhibition area is open plan which will make the chronology of the displays much clearer. The large windows give a wonderful panoramic view of the river and over to Sutton Hoo. The Friday talks continue on Friday, February 22 when Peter Booth-Smith will present a talk entitled The Great Gold Rush, the rush that changed the history of America.

On March 22 Julie Murray will present The History of Notcutts.

For further information on any of the above please contact: 01394 385572

DANCE FOLKUS WELCOMES SOUND TRADITION & POLLY DARE The monthly barn dance/ceilidhs at Woodbridge Community Hall are becoming very popular with dancers of all ages. On Friday, February 1 we welcome the effervescent Surrey caller Polly Dare. Polly is a dancer herself and is a member of Magog Morris and Boxhill Bedlam so she knows a thing or two about dancing. She has called with many well-known English bands so expect a lively evening. The band for the evening will be our resident Dance Folkus ‘Come All Ye’ Band led by Harbour Lights. (Advanced warning: Stumpy Oak will be the guest band for the March ceilidh) We are also delighted to have the fabulous Sound Tradition (pictured) for our taster song spot. Sound Tradition is an a cappella folk foursome singing in glorious harmony. Their varied repertoire ranges from lively chorus songs to lilting ballads, from medieval times to the modern day, always with an ear for the English folk tradition. They have supported such luminaries as Martin Carthy, Dave Swarbrick and Roy Bailey, but also enjoy the main stage in their own right. They hail from East Anglia and have a reputation that has gained them bookings at clubs and festivals across the country. Don’t miss them.

New dancers wanting to attend can book a discounted place by emailing Dancefolkus@aol.com (no payment in advance) or you can simply come along on the night (entry £7). Students or children are £3 at the door.

Telephone Rob 01473 610951 if you need further information. Visitors to Woodbridge and new first-time dancers are always very welcome to attend our dances at Woodbridge Community Hall in Station Road IP12 4AU.

MARTLESHAM BRASS Making music fun in East Anglia Thank you to everyone who gave so generously to our Christmas carolling collections. The grand total raised was £2,389.24, which will be divided between our three chosen charities: The Stroke Association, Tiffers – The Bus Shelter Ipswich CIC and Martlesham Community Responders.

On Saturday, February 9 Martlesham Brass are delighted to welcome Katrina Marzella, solo baritone with Black Dyke Band, to perform in a concert with the main band. The concert is at 7pm in St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3SL. Tickets are £4 each (primary school children free) and are available from: www.martleshambrass.co.uk, by calling 07544 962205 or on the door.

We would love to hear from new players, young and old, with or without experience. Our aim is to encourage anyone who feels they would like to play in a brass band to come and have a go! If you would like to join us, or if you already play or have previously played a brass instrument and would like to come along and meet us, please contact us via the website or use the contact details below.

Publicity Officer Liz Howard e_m_howard@talk21.com / 01473 625617 / www.martleshambrass.co.uk

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CONSERVATIVE WOMEN’S ORGANISATION AGM The AGM of the Conservative Women’s Organisation (CWO) will be held in the Deben Annex of Woodbridge Community Hall (IP12 4AU) on Friday, February 22 at 11.45am. Our guest speaker is Mr Andrew Fane OBE MA FCA, Chairman of the Suffolk Preservation Society, who will speak at the conclusion of the meeting.

There will be a sandwich luncheon with wine, tea or coffee for £5 per person.

Should you want to attend and stay for lunch please contact Yvonne Holdcroft: 01394 610548 / yvonne.holdcroft@gmail.com

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/woodbridge

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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY Friday, February 1, 7.30pm: Evening concert by pupils from Woodbridge School, featuring the school’s chamber orchestra and chamber choir. Both these groups will be performing in Germany shortly afterwards so we will have a preview of their programme. This is bound to be a delightful evening.

Tickets are £8 (students £4) and are available from Woodbridge Library either in person or by phoning 01394 330855. The ticket price includes an interval drink.

February 1-28: ArtLib Exhibition by Blaxhall Art Group, an informal group who meet in Blaxhall Village Hall on Thursday mornings to enjoy the companionship of painting and drawing together.

From Saturday, February 2: Sale of donated DVDs and CDs. All proceeds go to the Friends of Woodbridge Library.

Tuesday, February 5, 10am-noon: Realise Futures walk-in advice and 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 07753 447607 / info@realisefutures.org or visit: www.realisefutures.org Book Group: Meets on the first Thursday of the month at 2pm. On February 7 we will be discussing The Poison Tree by Erin Kelly.

Saturday, February 9, 10.15-11.45am: Talk by well-being coach and Three Principles practitioner Mia Philips. Mia explores how our experience of life is created via the three psycho-spiritual principles of mind, consciousness and thought.

We will also be discussing these ideas every third Tuesday afternoon from 4.15-5.45pm, and look forward to seeing you on Tuesday, February 19, welcoming in particular young people and their parents/carers (£7 per person, or for adult plus child/young person). For more information please visit: www.facebook.com/SC3PC Saturday, February 16, 9-11am: County Councillor Caroline Page will be holding her surgery at the library.

Saturday, February 23, 10.30am-2.30pm: Sutton Hoo Roadshow. This visit is one in a series hosted by Suffolk Libraries while the world famous site is closed for major development work.

To ensure that people can continue discovering the story of the Anglo-Saxons who buried their king in Suffolk, the Sutton Hoo Roadshows will include a chance to see the stunning replica artefacts including the famous Sutton Hoo helmet, buckle and shoulder clasp.

Free IT help and advice: Available on Monday and Thursday mornings. Learn how to use a library computer or your own laptop, tablet or smartphone.

Free one-on-one hour long tuition. Book your session at the desk or call: 01394 446510 Friends of Woodbridge Library: If you’re enthusiastic about libraries, would enjoy helping to organise library events and are willing to help with our fundraising activities, please ask a member of staff for more details.

Friends of Woodbridge Library Goodies: Show your support for your local library by carrying a cotton shopping bag bearing the Friends logo. It’s only £3. There is also a magnetic bookmark for £1.

Citizens Advice Bureau: Someone from the CAB is available for help and advice every Monday from 10am-noon.

Meeting room and display boards available for hire • Community, charity, private groups: £10 per hour • Commercial, statutory groups: £15 per hour • Display boards: £10 per week • Staffed table display in the main library: £10 per half day Woodbridge Novelists: Meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 10am-noon. This is a reciprocal critiquing group for novelwriters who are working towards publication. For more information email: jane@bakwon.com Writers’ Workshop: Meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 5.307.30pm. If you like to write for pleasure, love words and have imagination, have you thought of joining Writers’ Workshop at Woodbridge Library? The group does homework on one fortnight and structure (plot, characterisation, etc) on the other. You can attend one or both sessions, but it is not a course – you are not taught to write. The workshop is free. Interested? To open doors to creative writing please email: jeannie@butterwicks.com Creative Writing for All: Meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 2-4pm. For more details contact: jeannie@butterwicks.com Knitting Club: Every Friday at 2pm. For all types of knitters, expert to beginner, come and share your knowledge or pick up some tips.

Arts and Crafts Group: Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 10am. Enables older people and their carers to take part in activities such as collage, card making, printing and modelling.

Play Reading: Meets on the third Thursday of the month at 2pm. Come to listen or join in for an afternoon of light-hearted drama, comedy or mystery.

All welcome.

Games Club: Meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at 2pm. Now includes dominoes. Improve your vocabulary and exercise your mind muscles with Scrabble or practise strategy or balance with dominoes.

Woodbridge Area Gamers: Meets on the second Saturday of each month from 1-5pm. For more information contact nigel@foden.me.uk / 07740 173091 or visit: www.boardgamegeek.com/guild/1150 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN Every Wednesday 10.30-10.50am: Bookstart Baby Bounce – soothing songs and gentle nursery rhymes for babies and their grown-ups.

11.15-11.45am: Bookstart Tot Rock Rhyme and Rhythm – music, songs and action rhymes for toddlers with their parents and carers.

Every Friday 10.30-11am: Bookstart Story and Rhyme Time Stories and more for young children accompanied by an adult.

Every Sunday 10.30am-noon: Kid’s Club Craft Activities.

A NEW WAY OF LOOKING ROUND HARKSTEAD CHURCH If you visit St Mary’s Church, Harkstead, you will now find a new sort of church guide on the table just inside the door, the Arts Society Children’s Trail.

the graffiti in the church porch, or trying to decide what a fragment of a medieval wall painting represented.

Part of a national initiative by the Arts Society, Harkstead’s trail is an illustrated sheet of 13 questions for children about the interior of the church which guides them round the building looking at the architecture, history and furnishings. Accompanying adults use a corresponding answer sheet to share with the children.

The trail was devised by Ipswich based Orwell Decorative and Fine Arts Society (ODFAS), with the help of the Rev Canon Liesbeth Oosterhof and members and friends of the church.

At the launch, parents and grandparents brought children along to try out the trail. They spent some time going round the church carefully examining fixtures such as the font, the pulpit and the altar, studying

The Harkstead trail will now be added to the Arts Society national register, which includes a number of other churches in Suffolk.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/woodbridge

Typically these trails are aimed at children aged between eight and twelve to encourage them to explore churches, but they can be enjoyed by all ages.

To find out more about Children’s Trails, email: info@orwelldfas.org.uk

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OUT & ABOUT EVOCATIVE WORDS AND MUSIC Some men never think of it.

You did. You’d come along And say you’d nearly bought me flowers But something had gone wrong …

So begins Wendy Cope’s poem Flowers. It’s just one of several much-loved poems to be read by actress Rohan McCullough in an evening of Evocative Words and Music, the music aspect being some delicious pieces played on the clarinet by her brother, Andy McCullough, accompanied by pianist Andrew Leach.

To take place in St Mary’s Parish Church, Woodbridge on Friday, March 15 at 5pm, the recital will include music by Albinoni, Walton, Kreisler, Verdi, Rachmaninov and others, with poems by Betjeman, Manley Hopkins, Belloc, Kipling, Edward Thomas and by Wendy Cope.

Tickets (£10 to include a glass of fizz) are available from Woodbridge Violins or St Mary’s Church Shop, Market Hill. Proceeds to the Friends of St Mary’s Church Building Repair Fund.

Rohan began her acting career in the original cast of Hair, followed by parts in films by David Hare and Derek Jarman. She has performed with the RSC, at the Edinburgh Festival and at many West End theatres. She is most noted for her one-woman plays, with which she has toured the world, most recently as Clementine Churchill in My Darling Clemmie. She has given poetry and prose recitals with Sir Derek Jacobi, Edward fox, Robert Powell, John Julius Norwich and Sir John Mortimer. As a narrator, she has performed with leading symphony orchestras in London and the USA. Andy McCullough, a well-known Woodbridge resident, studied the clarinet in Vienna and at the Royal College of Music. He has played in orchestras of the BBC, the London Symphony, the English National Opera and the City of Birmingham Symphony, under conductors including Rattle, Abbado, Previn and Mackerras. He taught at the Royal College of Music and at Eton College, and was an examiner for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.

Since moving to Woodbridge, he has established a series of house concerts.

It should be a lovely evening – do come along and support us!

SING YOUR HEART OUT IN 2019 Do you love to sing but joining a choir feels too daunting? Or is it more commitment than you’re looking for? Choirmaster Chris Rowbury has come up with the perfect solution, a six week Singing Safari staring at Kyson School on Thursday, February 14.

Take your voice on an imaginary journey around the world. Learn songs from cultures where singing comes as naturally as speaking. Build a new choir from scratch in just six weeks. Even better, there are no auditions, no sheet music and no solos.

Chris teaches all songs by ear and says: “I believe that everyone can sing.

Come along and give it a go. The more the merrier!”

The Singing Safari will stage a one-off performance on Saturday, March 23 at St Mary’s Church. With a charge of £35 for the whole project, this is a fab chance to get your voice heard. You can even try before you buy: come to the first session to see if you like it before paying. www.chrisrowbury.com / Chris: 01394 610486

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PRESENTS SURGE BY JAYNE LINDILL Horizon Theatre presents an evening of local entertainment with welcome drinks, acoustic music and a play written to mark the 65th anniversary of the East Coast floods.

East Coast, January 31, 2018. A huge storm is brewing. Forecasters are predicting conditions not seen since the catastrophic night of January 31, 1953, when a storm surge and floods killed more than 300 people and made thousands homeless.

Steve Drury, born in the middle of that tempestuous night 65 years ago, is facing his own crisis. As his wife, Annie, organises a party to celebrate his milestone birthday and his retirement, he’s trying to come to terms with a future without the job that he loves and which has defined his very existence. But the real cause of his anxiety is his older sister, Maggie.

Rendered mute by the trauma of that terrible night in 1953, she’s deeply disturbed by the arrival of this new storm. It arouses memories and emotions that have been submerged for a lifetime, and threatens to split open the past, revealing long held secrets and unleashing feelings of guilt, grief and loss with devastating consequences.

Jayne Lindill, who was born and brought up in Suffolk and now lives in Felixstowe, wrote Surge as an original piece of drama for Horizon to perform at Ferry Fest Felixstowe 2018. It received great acclaim, and the company is now touring the play to towns and villages in February, at the time of year when the floods devastated the Suffolk coast.

The evening starts at 7.15pm with welcome drinks and acoustic music performed by cast members, and an exhibition about the floods compiled

by Jean Macpherson and Bev Boyce, Felixstowe residents who are writing a book to coincide with the 70th anniversary of the floods. Jean and Bev are interested to hear from people who have memories and information about the floods. The play starts at 7.45pm and lasts approximately 80 minutes.

Performance Schedule February 7: Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club February 8: Shotley Village Hall February 13: Ansell Centre, Hadleigh February 14: Waldringfield Village Hall February 15: Church Hall, Lower Road, Sproughton Tickets £5 on the door or from: 07864 084423 / jaynelindill2@btinternet.com

ROTARY CLUB OF WOODBRIDGE DEBEN December was a busy month for the Rotary Club of Woodbridge Deben.

Our annual Carol Concert took place at Woodbridge School on December 6 where a capacity crowd were once again entertained by the school chamber choir, Martlesham Brass Band and readings by our president, Tom Griffin, as well as joining in enthusiastically with the programme of carols.

Santa’s sleigh did four runs around Martlesham Heath and a morning in the Thoroughfare, the latter supported by carol singing by members of Woodbridge Choral Society. Our thanks go to them, and to everybody who supported these events, which between them raised around £3,000.

This will enable us to continue our support of various local, national and international charities.

The Memory Cafe, run in conjunction with Woodbridge Rotary Club and Woodbridge Inner Wheel, resumes after the Christmas break on Wednesday, January 30. We look forward to greeting memory loss sufferers and their carers between 10.30am and noon at Woodbridge Football Club on the last Wednesday of every month.

Our annual Golf Day will take place at St Audrys Golf Club on Thursday, July 18; more details in due course.

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A play inspired by the 1953 East Coast Floods

by Jayne Lindill & Horizon Theatre

An evening of local entertainment and original drama Feb 7: Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club Feb 8: Shotley Village Hall Feb 13: Ansell Centre, Hadleigh Feb 14: Waldringfield Village Hall Feb 15: Church Hall, Lower Road, Sproughton Welcome drinks, live acoustic music from 7.15pm Tickets: ÂŁ5 on the door or call 07864084423 email:jaynelindill2@btinternet.com

www.keepingintouchwith.com/woodbridge

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CELEBRATING 40 YEARS UNDER THE SAME NAME AND OWNERS

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REEMAN DANSIE Auctioneers & Valuers

Antiques & Fine Art Sale Tuesday 12th & Wednesday 13th February 2019 Commencing at 10am on both days Viewing Saturday 9th February 9am-1pm Monday 11th February 9.30am-6.00pm and morning of sale from 9am

Part of an exceptional collection of Victorian and Edwardian animal themed decanters being offered for auction in this sale

Please call one of our experts to arrange a valuation - Tel. 01206 754754 8 Wyncolls Road, Severalls Business Park, Colchester, Essex CO4 9HU Tel : 01206 754754 Fax : 01206 754750 Email : auction@reemandansie.com Web : www.reemandansie.com 16

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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE & DISTRICT LIONS

WOODBRIDGE ART CLUB

Woodbridge Lions Club would like to thank everyone who contributed so generously to our street and store collections in the run-up to Christmas, and special thanks to Tesco Martlesham Heath and Suffolk Coastal District Council for their kind permission to hold collections. In total we raised £1,091 which will help us to continue to be able to support local good causes.

After a very busy and memorable anniversary year in 2018, the art club is taking a break during January while the premises are being redecorated inside and out, though some activities will continue.

Proceeds were as follows: Tesco Martlesham Heath, December 7: £323 Tesco Martlesham Heath, December 12: £164 Woodbridge, Turban Centre, December 15: £255 Sleigh Ride, Warwick Avenue & Bury Hill, December 19: £199 Sleigh Ride, Peterhouse, December 20: £150 As with all funds raised from the public, these proceeds will be returned to the community in a number of ways, chiefly through the Christmas Parcels project and Quay Time, our joint venture with Woodbridge Quay Church.

Our outdoor exhibition in Whisstocks Place in August was so successful we may repeat it this summer. The new taster sessions for people who wanted to try their hand at various activities proved so popular we will definitely run some more, starting with one for those who were unable to get a place on the first course.

The year ended in mid-December with the annual Christmas party, which saw the club room packed with members enjoying themselves.

The gallery will open again at Easter for our 51st summer exhibition, hung on newly painted walls. We look forward to seeing old friends and welcoming new visitors.

Keep up with club news at: www.facebook.com/woodbridgeartclub

For more details or to contact us, please call 0845 8332820 or visit: www.woodbridgelions.org.uk

EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of, or a volunteer for, the National Trust, we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you. We meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF at 7.15pm.

Our next meeting is on February 19 when Marcia Whiting, Curatorial Associate of the Munnings Museum, will speak on the life and works of Sir Alfred Munnings. Sir Alfred, born and educated in Suffolk, is famous for being one of England’s finest painters of horses. Possibly less well known, he was also a significant artist of the Great War. In her talk Marcia will be paying particular attention to his collection at the Munnings Museum in Dedham.

On March 19 Nick Collinson, General Manager for East Suffolk National Trust, will talk about the properties in East Suffolk, with particular reference to Sutton Hoo. The meeting will be preceded by a short AGM Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome; the entrance fee is £3. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 per year (£12 per couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events.

For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary at: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk

INNER WHEEL CLUB OF WOODBRIDGE The club rounded off 2018 with Christmas Lunch at Seckford Golf Club, at which members donated money to charity in lieu of sending Christmas cards.

A chilly Thursday evening in January saw our first meeting of the new year.

An informative talk by Max Pemberton on exploring the Irrawaddy River was accompanied by slides, giving us a visual journey through Papua New Guinea and Myanmar (formerly Burma.) Max was able to give us a brief history of Myanmar, pointing out how much control the military have had since the country became independent in 1948. Beautiful architecture was very much in evidence in his pictures of the many temples.

Plans for this year include a Soup Lunch to celebrate International Inner Wheel Day, with any profit going to Shelterbox.

Our annual Quiz Night will be held on Friday, March 8 at Woodbridge Community Hall at 7.30pm. For further details or to enter a team, please contact Deirdre Rothwell: 01394 386381

www.keepingintouchwith.com/woodbridge

ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY Our first next lecture of the new year will be on Wednesday, February 6 when Andrew Spira will deliver what we are sure will be a fascinating talk entitled The Art and Architecture of St Petersburg.

On Wednesday, March 6, Doug Gillen will present a talk entitled Hidden Canvasses: Street Art and the City.

So why not join us and enjoy good company and interesting talks? We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing promptly at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm.

Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space.

Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins before the day on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space.

For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY Monday, February 11: The History of the Catholic Church in Kesgrave by The Rev Chris Brighten I’m sure many of you will have passed the small Catholic Church in Kesgrave on your way into Ipswich. But are you aware of the story of two exceptional families and a tragic accident that resulted in the building of the church?

The church, which is still in private ownership, has some of the most amazing stained glass windows made by an artist who was one of the finest stained glass designers of the Arts and Craft Movement in the first half of the 20th century. Come along and find out more!

Meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion at 7.30pm. Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.

LEISTON & DISTRICT PHILATELIC SOCIETY In February the society will meet on Wednesday 27, from 7.15pm at the United Church, High Street, Leiston. Parking in the nearby Solar car park is now restricted, but there is a council car park on Sizewell Road which is free after 6pm. The meeting is the club’s competition evening, giving everyone a chance to see the collections of other members.

New members are always welcome. Membership is £5, payable in September (50p for students up to 18 years) and refreshments are available.

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OUT & ABOUT U3A 2019 PROGRAMME GETS INTO ITS STRIDE We’ve seen in the new year and have long since forgotten all those ambitious and potentially life changing resolutions – except for one! Our U3A members are continuing their quest for knowledge with stimulating and lively new topics to discover and debate.

The U3A spring programme is as interesting as ever, with a variety of speakers examining the truth behind controversial First World War leader Marshall Haig, the impact of the US Army on Suffolk soil and helping us separate the fact from the fiction surrounding St Edmund.

Thursday, February 7, 10.30am at Felixstowe Salvation Army Hall The Campaign for Votes for Women by Joy Bounds Phases of the campaign from the mid-19th century to the end of the First World War Thursday, February 14, 2pm at Saxmundham Market Hall, IP17 1AF Overpaid, Oversexed and Over Here by Ian McLachlan The social and cultural impact of the ‘friendly’ invasion of the US Army Air Force in East Anglia Monday, February 25, 2pm at Kesgrave Community Centre, IP5 1JF St Edmund in History and Legend by Dr Sam Newton An assessment of the accounts in the Anglo Saxon Chronicles, the history of Danish East Anglia and the rise of the cult of St Edmund U3A promises a warm welcome to existing and potential members. All details of membership are available on the website. Alternatively call the membership secretary on 0300 123 3913.

Occasionally U3A may have to make last minute changes so please see the website for the most up-to-date information. www.a3aeastsuffolk.org.uk

MELTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Melton from the Air We are fortunate to have David Mortimer giving a presentation on his work as an aerial drone photographer on Wednesday, February 13. David was recently commissioned to take a number of aerial photographs of Melton and will be showing these photographs, contrasting the changes to the village in recent years.

David will also discuss his drone equipment and the training and regulations involved in using drones safely in the UK. Doors open at 7.45pm for an 8pm start at Burness Parish Rooms, 38 The Street, Melton IP12 1PW. All welcome; members free, visitors £3.

For further information email: mlhs.sec@aol.com / www.mlhs.btck.co.uk

Speak Easy at Martlesham Join us at Speak Easy at Martlesham, your friendly neighbourhood speakers’ club, to improve your public speaking in 2019.

Did you miss our open evening on January 24? Yes, we know you were intending to come, but something came up. Never mind – guests are welcome at any of our club meetings. There are two meetings in February: Thursdays 7 and 21.

Speak Easy is a Toastmasters International club. TI has spent nearly 95 years devising and refining the best ways for all of us to develop. If you improve your public speaking it also boosts your confidence and helps you become a better leader. Toastmasters International recognises this. There are leadership projects and opportunities as well as speaking projects, all within Pathways, TRI’s new educational framework. There are online and downloadable learning materials to guide and challenge you. You’re in control of how far and how fast you progress.

We meet every Thursday fortnight at the Richards Room in Martlesham (alongside Felixstowe Road, behind Tesco). Our meetings include impromptu speaking, formal speaking and evaluation. Evaluation is a vital part of how Toastmasters’ clubs operate. When you evaluate someone else speaking you not only help them, you also – through empathy and understanding – help develop your own speaking.

For further details or queries, please call 07968 372563 or get in touch via: www.speak-easy.org.uk (select Contact Us) Speak Easy at Martlesham is all about learning to speak in a friendly, encouraging and enjoyable environment. We look forward to meeting you.

PLAY QUIZGO Play Quizgo with Ipswich & District Kidney Association on Sunday, February 17, 7.30pm at Kesgrave Social Club, Edmonton Road IP5 1EE. Maximum of six per team, £2.50 each. Licenced bar, food available at interval. www.quizgo.net

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In Touch online:

For you, your family and your business

01394 388605 Offices in Woodbridge, Ipswich, Hadleigh and Felixstowe www.gotelee.co.uk www.keepingintouchwith.com/woodbridge

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OUT & ABOUT CRAFTERS UNLIMITED Happy New Year to all our crafting members past and present.

Crafters Unlimited is a craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a light hearted atmosphere with refreshments. We meet on the fourth Thursday of each month in Rushmere Village Hall from 7.30-10pm.

Thursday February 28: Rolling Penny Card (Emma) New members are always welcome. For more details contact Emma: 01787 373850

IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY Our January meeting was held at Kesgrave Community Centre where our member Roger Swindells displayed and talked about his thematic collections and winning competition entries. Afterwards we were able to purchase material from Roger`s extensive stock as he is also a dealer who attends local stamp fairs.

During February we have two competition nights and also a visit to Stampex in London. Lynn Roberts will be our speaker at Cedarwood School on the evening of March 6. Lynn will display and discuss her collection of Albania.

On March 20 we have another afternoon meeting at Kesgrave Community Centre with Graham Booth who will talk about Cayman Island Postal History.

The hall will be open from 1pm.

Looking forward to April, we have two big events. On Wednesday 17 we have our annual auction, and on Saturday 27 we have a stamp fair at the community centre. This year we are also hosting Spring Stamp Essex so you will be able to view competition entries from across Suffolk and Essex as well as buy and sell with quality dealers.

For further information contact Mike Smith: 01473 403904 / michaelsmith1949@gmail.com www.ipswichphilatelic.uk

DEBEN FLOWER CLUB The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 12 at 7.30pm in the Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP10 0PU. The evening will take the form of a demonstration by club members. This will be an informal event with members and visitors having the opportunity to move around the hall and ask questions of those producing the arrangements.

Tea and coffee will be available and there will be stalls selling good quality books. There will also be a raffle of the flower arrangements.

Visitors (£5) are always assured of a warm welcome. Please telephone 01394 411422 if you would like further information.

Wildlife Gardening There will be a chance to find out how to make your garden more wildlife friendly when Cathy Smith gives a talk on wildlife gardening at Woodbridge Community Hall on Thursday, February 21 7.30pm.

This talk has been organised by Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Woodbridge Group and Chairman Phil Smith said: “We don’t all have the space to dig a pond or sow a wildflower meadow, but there are still small changes we can make in our gardens to create a potential haven for a wide range of species. I invite people to come long and find out more about this fascinating subject.” Admission is £3 for adults with under16s free. There will be a raffle and light refreshments.

For more information, please contact: 01473 625630 / swtwoodbridge@outlook.com EVENTS AT FOXBURROW FARM Tuesday, February 12, 10am-2pm Activity Day for Home Educated Children, ages 6-11 Booking essential / £7 Saturday, February 16, 10am-noon Young Wardens, Practical Conservation Activities Unaccompanied 11-16 year olds Booking essential / £3 Saturday, February 16, 2-4pm Family Forest Schools Afternoon Spend the afternoon in the woods engrossed in wild art, den building, woodland crafts and fire lighting, 18months+ Booking essential / children £4, adults £2 Tuesday, February 19, 10.30am-12.30pm Family Tracks and Trails Morning Follow footprint trails and discover who made them Accompanied over-fives Booking essential / children £4, adults £2 Wednesday, February 20, 10am-2pm Wild Tots: Forest School activities and Wild Play for under-fives led by experienced practitioners. Older siblings welcome but activities will be aimed at those aged 18 months to five years. Booking essential / accompanied children £5, older siblings £2 Wednesday, February 20, 2-4pm Volunteer Recruitment Afternoon Drop in and find out about volunteering with the Wild Learning team and enjoy a coffee and cake.

Thursday, February 21, 10am-noon Family Bird Box Building: Build a bird box and make a bird feeder to take home, accompanied children aged three plus Booking essential / £10 per box Friday, February 22, 10am-2pm Treasure Hunt Activity Day: Find the clues and solve the mystery to find hidden treasure and claim your reward, unaccompanied 6-11 year olds. Booking essential / £7 Wednesday, February 27 – Wednesday, April 3, 10am-2pm Weekly Wild Tots Sessions: Forest School activities and Wild Play for under-fives led by experienced practitioners, 18 months to five years Booking essential: £5 per session if booking week-by-week or £4 per session as a block To book call 01473 890089 or visit: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/events Foxburrow Farm, Near Woodbridge IP12 1NA

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SCHOOLS / on the grapevine SPRING TERM AT BRIGHT STARS Fun activity sessions for pre-school aged children with parents, grandparents, friends, family and/or carers on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term times from 10.30am-noon at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL.

LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR WINS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Sessions are free and usually based on a theme. They normally include singing, games, crafts and Bible stories, followed by refreshments and more play. Just turn up; no need to book.

The session dates for the spring term are: February 11 and 25 and March 11 and 25. You are welcome to come along to any of our mornings; just turn up, no need to let us know in advance.

For further information please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196

ST MARY’S EXPLORE THE ROMANS! By school reporters: Scarlet, Henry and Isabella

The founder and managing director of one of East Anglia’s leading hearing care companies has been honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by one of the UK’s leading health governing bodies.

Karen Finch, owner of The Hearing Care Centre which has local clinics in Woodbridge, Wickham Market and Framlingham, was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her work in the audiology profession at the British Health Trades Association (BHTA) Excellence Awards – an annual celebration of success in the healthcare marketplace.

This award comes at a pivotal point for Karen because this year marks the 20th anniversary of The Hearing Care Centre. From humble beginnings in 1998, Karen now employs a team of almost 30 employees and provides top-level hearing care from a network of 26 centres across East Anglia. Karen was commended by the BHTA for her dedication to the high quality of her team and investment in the people that she works with, allowing them to develop their own careers, and helping all of them to make a success of the business.

We love going on educational visits at St Mary’s. On this particular school trip, we went to Colchester Castle and learnt about all the Romans and Celts in Britain. We saw lots of artefacts including Roman coins. There were lots of Roman games to play; everybody thought that creating your own mosaic was fun (it was also a little tricky as well!).

We dressed up as Celtic villagers and we also tried on some Roman helmets with padding.

Colchester Castle is built on top of the Temple of Claudius. We saw a model of the original castle complete with toilets. One of our favourite parts of the day was exploring the spooky dungeons!

Karen was also recognised for the work she does in the local community to promote hearing health, and the company’s fundraising for many local and national charities including Hearing Dogs for Deaf People who help to transform the lives of the deaf.

Karen was overcome with emotion when she was presented with the award: “Being recognised by a peer group like the BHTA is incredibly validating for me and our entire team at The Hearing Care Centre. The entire board was involved in the decision process and I truly appreciate that the BHTA takes a thoughtful approach to highlight the audiology sector professionals.

We were allowed to go underneath to the vaults of the Temple of Claudius which is around 2,000 years old. We were told a story about how the Romans were trapped in the temple when is caught fire. The doors were opened and the Celts invaded and killed the Romans.

“As I think of other Lifetime Achievements recipients who preceded me, and the impact they’ve had in their health organisations and in the wider community, I am very grateful to rank among them. But I do hope they don’t think I have achieved everything I want to achieve – I’m not ready to go home and retire. I’m not done yet!”

Daisy said: “It was a brilliant day because we got to learn a lot more about the history of the Romans and Celts and it put us to the test too.”

Karen is pictured with Falklands Veteran Simon Weston CBE and Lord Chris Rennard MBE.

We all agree it was a very exciting and educational day.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/woodbridge

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SPORT WOODBRIDGE CRUISING CLUB

DEBEN YACHT CLUB

Well, we’re past the shortest day and looking forward to another sailing year, but before that there’s still much going on at the club to lighten the remaining dark days of winter.

The programme for this year is nearly complete and it’s promising to be a busy season. In the spring we intend to run two sail training courses for club members; the courses will both be held on four separate days over four weekends.

Early December saw the inaugural film night complete with usherettes and ice creams. A throw back to our teenage years except that seating was round tables and there was no back row! Nonetheless it was a great success and is destined to become a regular feature.

The Christmas season kicked off with the commodore’s party which was more of a cabaret night than a party. The commodore, Freeman Lynn, orchestrated the event which involved many and various members reciting their favourite party pieces around a sumptuous meal.

The array of talent in the club is amazing; it must be down to those endless hours spent waiting for the wind to drop and the tide to turn, but poems, songs and tales were in abundance, including a very convincing impersonation of Joyce Grenfell by Ruth Metzits. There will be further opportunities for aspiring performers at the musical evening planned for February.

The Boxing Day tradition of mince pies and mulled wine was, as usual, very popular and then we got to New Year’s Eve when the commodore, fresh from a visit to Dublin and no doubt benefiting from the relaxing effect of a few bottles of Guinness, assumed the role of DJ. Much of the music dated back to the advent of rock ‘n’ roll so members were able to twist and jive the night away. There were no fancy dress costumes this time, much to the relief of at least one member, but we were able to relive our teenage years. Though not exactly dancing in the dark, dimmed lights and no glasses produced a similar effect. Midnight came amid a deluge of champagne, a quick chorus of Auld Lang Syne followed by the Hokey Cokey, and 2018 was over. Long live 2019!

Suspicion of gold smuggling and piracy surrounded the demise of a 19th century training schooner was the subject of a Sunday talk by master mariner Peter King. Built in 1832 by an English yard, the 80ft ship was bought by an Irishman and put into service for the construction of lighthouses around the Irish coast. However, her ‘sharp’ hull form made her rather impractical so she was sold and went to the South Pacific, trading coconut oil around the islands, a course Peter himself would follow some 120 years later.

IMPROVERS: This is for people who already have a little sailing experience and want to improve their skills and acquire more experience. Sessions will be on Saturdays, April 20 & 27 and Sundays, May 5 & 12.

BEGINNERS: This is aimed at people who have no sailing experience and want to learn the basics of getting afloat in a boat for the first time. Sessions will be on Saturday, May 18, Sunday, May 26, Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 9.

Starting times will vary because of the tide. Each session will last about five hours, with a short briefing in the clubhouse, and we will try to maximise the time we spend afloat. Most work will be done in the club’s Wayfarers so you will be paired with another trainee and looked after by a qualified RYA dinghy sailing instructor. For those who are interested there will be an opportunity to sail in a single-hander. All activities will be supervised by a RYA Senior Instructor and a crewed support boat. The cost of each course will be £95 per person.

If you are a DYC member (or plan to be) for 2019 and you are interested in doing one of our courses, get in touch and we will send you full details and an application form. We expect places to fill up quickly so don’t hang about!

Contact Steve for more details or if you want a chat first: scholey@ntlworld.com / 07929 751003 To do a sail training course at DYC you need to be a member. Membership starts from just £31 for a cadet/student (under 18). For ages 18-25 it’s £47, £94 for adults and £141 for a family which covers two adults and their children. For any questions about membership or to join, please contact our membership secretary Frances Alexander: 01394 385221 Membership is open to all, you don’t need to own a boat or even know how to sail. Club dinghies can be hired when our safety boats are on patrol and under-18s can use club boats for free. The club operates on a self-help basis so members take their turn at some of the club’s many volunteering opportunities; galley duties, manning the safety boats and being officers of the day. Parents of cadets are very welcome to help, especially at Lazy Sailing!

Again her hull worked against her and further sales in 1858 and 1861 found her on the North American west coast carrying citrus fruit, a trade for which at last she was well suited. However, this was the time of the American Civil War and after setting a southerly course from Los Angeles in June 1861 she was not seen again until appearing in an insurance company ledger where she received a payout of $8,000 in the astonishingly short time of three months since reported missing!

For information about the club visit: www.woodbridgecruisingclub.org John Warwick

Our second winter talk is on Thursday, February 21 when Commodore Graham Seabrook is giving a talk at the club about his recent three-month trip to Nepal volunteering with Raleigh International. The talk will start at 7.30pm and there will be refreshments. Talks are free and non-members are very welcome.

For more information about talks please contact Jane Bradburn: 01394 446008 / j.bradburn16@btinternet.com

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In Touch online:

ON THE GRAPEVINE QUESTIONS ON CASH Your questions answered by Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb Paul from Stowupland is just one of many people who has contacted me to ask what can be done about poor performing ISA funds. He writes: “I have around £60,000 in a stocks and shares ISA with Legal & General and a cash ISA with Barclays Bank. The stocks and shares ISAs have lost over £4,000 in the last six months and have never produced any significant growth, and the rates I am getting on the cash ISA, is awful.

I wondered if I could move them?”

Yes. If you are unhappy with your stocks and shares ISA investments, you can move them to another fund manager while keeping the money within a taxefficient ISA wrapper. To do this, you instruct a financial adviser to effect an ISA transfer. You can also move a cash ISA into a stocks and shares wrapper, by the same ISA to ISA transfer process.

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

However, before you rush out to do this, you should first investigate whether you could make an internal fund switch into other funds within your existing ISA provider’s range. Legal & General offer quite a wide choice of investment funds within their ISA range, and this would normally be the most costeffective way of changing the investment funds within your ISA. However, this may not be an option if you are invested in a structured product ISA or if your ISA does not have access to the full fund range. It may therefore be just as cost effective to switch to a new fund manager altogether.

If you do wish to transfer, then you may wish to consider using an investment platform to hold your ISAs on. An investment platform is an online service that allows you to hold, manage, and track all of your investments in one place.

Using a platform means that you only have to give one instruction to one provider and you only receive one statement. You can use a platform to buy new investments, or to consolidate a number of different plans that you already hold into new wrappers. There can also be savings in charges when you have your investments all held on the same investment platform.

Platforms also allow you to invest in a wide range of investment funds from many different providers which ensures a wider spread of assets and less volatility, and less dependence upon a single fund manager. A platform will usually provide access to a range of managed portfolios and multi-asset or multi-manager investment funds, which give you access to a wide spread of investment in line with your identified attitude to risk, with the bonus of professional investment management of the fund at a competitive cost.

At the moment, I would suggest that a good combination would be to access the Brewin Dolphin Managed Portfolio Service or MPS through a platform such as Novia Financial.

The Novia platform has very competitive charges and gives you online access to your investments 24/7, and the Brewin Dolphin Managed Portfolios have a good track record over the last five years, with a low annual management charge of 0.36 per cent per annum, including VAT. They are available to investors with a risk profile of anywhere between cautious and high risk and there are no initial or entry charges for people transferring ISAs into the Brewin Dolphin MPS when it is held on the Novia platform.

So, if you are unhappy with the performance of your existing ISAs, an ISA to ISA transfer could be the answer – but remember to take independent advice first.

Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser. Send your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham, Suffolk IP6 8JP, email them to nickplumb@aol.com, or telephone Nick on 01473 830301.

Nick’s answers to reader questions in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require specific advice should contact Nick to arrange a complimentary initial meeting to discuss their own position and requirements.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/woodbridge

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