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with Melton, Rendlesham & Woodbridge Volume 9 • Issue No. 10 • FEBRUARY 2020
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR
NEWS
Have you noticed the days getting the teensiest bit longer? It’s barely perceptible but I’m sure the sky is a little bit brighter when I leave work than it was even a week ago. However, it can be a rather gloomy time of the year so this month I’ve set out to give you something to laugh at. I hope it works. The Funniest Joke of The Fringe award was introduced 12 years ago at the Edinburgh Fringe. The goal of finding the wittiest one-liners falls to an expert panel of 10 judges, comprising of the UK’s leading comedy critics. Last year’s winner was Swedish comedian Olaf Falafel. He took the title with the gag: “I keep randomly shouting out ‘Broccoli’ and ‘Cauliflower’ – I think I might have florets” Ten jokes made the 2019 shortlist. My favourites were: “Someone stole my antidepressants. Whoever they are, I hope they’re happy” Richard Stott “A cowboy asked me if I could help him round up 18 cows. I said, ‘Yes, of course. That’s 20 cows’” Jake Lambert “A thesaurus is great. There’s no other word for it” Ross Smith “After learning six hours of basic semaphore, I was flagging” Richard Pulsford “To be or not to be a horse rider, that is Equestrian” Mark Simmons Here are a few others which made the shortlist over the years but failed to win: “I’m sure wherever my dad is; he’s looking down on us. He’s not dead, just very condescending.” Jack Whitehall “I like to imagine the guy who invented the umbrella was going to call it the ‘brella’. But he hesitated” Andy Field “I’ll tell you what’s unnatural in the eyes of God. Contact lenses.” Zoe Lyons They say humour is subjective and I know (or have been told) mine is somewhat ‘dark’, but you can’t deny the beautiful simplicity of each of the jokes highlighted here, and the talents behind them. Oh just one more… “I’m not a fan of the new pound coin, but then again, I hate all change.” Ken Cheng
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In Touch Titles • Stowmarket & 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
ROBIN HOOD & THE BABES IN THE WOODS While you may think panto season is well and truly over, the award-winning Company of Four Musical Theatre Society are busy rehearsing and putting the final touches to their traditional family pantomime. It’s taking place at The Riverside Theatre in Woodbridge during February half term. With a 12 show run, there is still time to grab those tickets – but don’t leave it too late as their panto always sells out, especially the matinees! This year the well renowned company present their latest version of Robin Hood & the Babes in the Woods, an amalgamation of two traditional pantomimes. It’s a tale of two young children sent away to be looked after by Nurse Nellie who works for the evil Sheriff of Nottingham. When the Sheriff, who is obsessed with money and power, finds out the babes are rich he hatches a plan to capture them and steal their money, all while trying to wed the beautiful Maid Marian! Sadly, the Sheriff had not bargained for the stupidity of his guards, Ruff and Redy, or the heroic Robin Hood and his Merrie Mob of outlaws getting in the way of his plans. Olivia, a wise owl, will keep you up to date with the story throughout the show. This pantomime promises to be a fast paced, comical and colourful adventure not to be missed! Robin Hood & the Babes in the Woods opens on Saturday 15 February and runs every day (apart from Monday 17) to the 22. Performance times are 2pm and 6pm on weekends and 2.30pm and 7.30pm on weekdays (no matinee on Tuesday or Thursday). To book call 01394 382174. Robin Hood & the Babes in the Woods has something for everyone, music, laughter, fun and happiness – a fabulous treat for this coming February half term holiday. Picture by Charmian S Berry
WOODBRIDGE TOWN COUNCIL POTTER COMMUNITY CUP An annual award and a £50 prize is made to a person or organisation who has made an outstanding contribution to the life or name of the town during the preceding 12 months. Nominations are now invited for the 2020 award; the submission deadline is Monday 2 March. Submissions with supporting details should be forwarded to: Greg Diaper, Deputy Clerk, Woodbridge Town Council, Shire Hall Market Hill, Woodbridge IP12 4LP Or by email to: deputytownclerk@woodbridge-suffolk.gov.uk
We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe
Mon 10 February
is the advertising and editorial deadline for the March edition
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NEWS WOODBRIDGE ROTARY CLUB CAROL CONCERT On Wednesday 18 December, Woodbridge Rotary Club held their 68th annual carol concert on Woodbridge Market Hill. We presented the Christmas Tree to the people of the town and Father Christmas presented sweets to all the children present. Major Alan Hill of the Salvation Army officiated at the service, ably helped by Rotarian Ron Hepworth MBE who conducted the singing and welcomed Father Christmas. The Bull Hotel provided mulled wine and hot chocolate, carol sheets were handed out and a voluntary collection for EACH raised £1,000. Our big challenge year by year is the rising cost of putting on this event, which this year amounted to approximately £1,000. This included £300 for audio hire, £100 for first aid provision, £65 for hire of the Shire Hall and an amazing £366 for road closure, all of which the club had to absorb from its funds. Thank you to all who attended; see you all again this year.
POPPING IN FOR A CHINWAG COULD MAKE YOUR DAY! Most of us love a good old natter over a cup of tea and Age UK Suffolk has recognised this with their continuing series of Pop-Up Chinwags – monthly social groups for older people in community venues. The latest Chinwag to ‘pop up’ is in Woodbridge and will be held every first Friday of the month at Woodbridge Community Centre between 10am and noon. The event is free and is open to anyone in Woodbridge and surrounding areas who would like to come along, make new friends, enjoy some light entertainment and, if wanted, take the opportunity to find out about support services that Age UK Suffolk may be able to offer. The groups are all about encouraging social inclusion and are a simple format of lots of tea (or coffee), entertainment and refreshments. Although the groups are free to attend, there is usually a tombola, so you may even bag yourself a bargain! Come along on your own, with a family member or friend, or as a group. All of the groups are dementia friendly so if you are someone living with memory challenges or are supporting a friend or family member, it’s a great opportunity to relax and have fun for a couple of hours. For further details, contact Tracey: 01473 298683 / tracey.evans@ageuksuffolk.org
WOODBRIDGE SPRING CLEAN 2020 This year’s Great British Spring Clean runs from March 20 to April 13 and for the fifth year, Transition Woodbridge plans to organise several litter picking events during that period in Woodbridge and Melton. In 2016 a group led by Transition Woodbridge and Woodbridge WI organised a litter pick over a March weekend as part of the Keep Britain Tidy campaign to Clean for the Queen. Enthusiastic volunteers turned out to remove an appalling amount of litter from our streets, roadside verges, car parks and open spaces in several areas around the town. Sadly, litter continues to be a problem. There are many individuals who regularly pick up litter on their daily walks and the rubbish walks led by Jason Alexander (each month on every fourth Sunday) encourage more people to help clean up the town and the river side. The Great British Spring Clean litter picks give even more folk the chance to get together to show the love they have for our town and remove the cigarette butts, car park tickets, bottles, cans, sweet and crisp packets, take away food and drink containers and dog poo bags that others carelessly drop. We all hope that one day soon everyone will want to do the right thing and put litter where it belongs – in the bin. Until that happy day please look out for the posters about the Great British Spring Clean litter picking events in Woodbridge and Melton. To register your interest email to springcleanwoodbridge@gmail.com and check out the Transition Woodbridge website where you can find further information on Jason’s walks: www.transitionwoodbridge.org.uk We also hope to join forces with Woodbridge Sea Scouts for the third time this summer for a river clean. It is so important for the health of our rivers and seas and all marine life that we treat our River Deben with respect and do not allow our rubbish to get into it.
ECO CRACKERS GO WITH A BANG! Kyson Primary School and their PTFA have been working really hard to cut down on plastic use in school and at school fundraising events. Having discovered that it’s entirely possible to find eco-alternatives to festive favourites, like Christmas crackers, the headteacher, Year 4 pupils and a PTFA army made more than 400 paper crackers for the school Christmas lunch. They were all plastic free and fully recyclable and worked just as well as normal crackers. The children had lots of fun opening them and really hope the ‘plastic-free’ message travels far and wide this year.
ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE SITUATION IN SYRIA AND THE YEMEN? Would you like to know more about these complex situations and the work being undertaken in the UK and internationally on peacekeeping and conflict resolution? Woodbridge resident Ashley Meyer plans to set up a branch of the United Nations Association (UNA-UK) for Woodbridge and Suffolk Coastal. UNA is a completely non-party political organisation.
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The initial plan would be to hold at least three public meetings a year where expert speakers would be invited to discuss these issues. Following these meetings, the branch might decide to give support to specific initiatives. An inaugural meeting is planned for March. If you would you like to support this initiative please contact Ashley: 07960 923125 / ashley.meyer@sky.com
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NEWS LOVE YOUR HEARING February is a month when love is in the air and The Hearing Care Centre is encouraging the public to truly connect with their loved ones by taking action against hearing loss. The Hearing Care Centre offers awardwinning hearing care services from 27 centres across East Anglia. They are encouraging those living in the local area to hear to their full potential by holding two Hearing Care Days at Framfield House Surgery, Woodbridge between 9am and 5pm on Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 February. During the event, the company’s expert team will provide free hearing assessments (usually £30), along with complimentary professional advice about your hearing test results and 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: “Hearing loss not only impacts an individual’s quality of life – it can also put strain and stress on relationships. Hearing aids can help you to become fully present in conversations with your loved ones and truly connect with them by sharing quality time together. The first step towards this is simply booking a hearing assessment.” To book an appointment call The Hearing Care Centre on 01473 230330 or for more information visit: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk
EAST SUFFOLK TRAVEL ASSOCIATION East Suffolk Travel Association is to hold its next public meeting on Saturday 15 February in Quay Street Church at 2pm. ESTA is the independent voluntary organisation for local train and bus users and the first part of the meeting will be devoted to reports of its recent actions and discussion of issues facing public transport users in eastern Suffolk. The meeting will hear reports of recent ESTA meetings with Greater Anglia and Network Rail and of ideas proposed by ESTA for bus service improvements. We shall also welcome Mrs Claire Kendall as guest speaker. Claire is the East Suffolk Lines Community Rail Partnership Officer and will describe the work going on to promote the lines to Lowestoft and Felixstowe. ESTA Chairman Trevor Garrod commented: “Public transport has been in the news a lot in recent months – with cuts to some local bus services but also with a period of delays and cancellations as 30-year-old trains were being replaced by modern trains, built in Switzerland and able to run either as diesels or as electrics. The new year has seen improvements in the reliability of the trains and it is important now to look ahead and see how trains and buses can play a bigger part in our system of transport.” www.eastsuffolktravel.org.uk
INTERESTED IN MAKING A REAL IMPACT ON YOUR COMMUNITY? The Disability Advice Service (East Suffolk) is looking for a new dynamic chairperson to lead our trustee board. Are you looking for a challenge? Do you have great communication skills and experience of running organisations and managing people? Are you available to share your expertise and give time and commitment to this important voluntary role? It’s a hands-on role with a flexible time commitment of around four half days a month, including some evening meetings. Disability Advice Service (East Suffolk) (DAS) is a small charity based in Martlesham Heath providing advice and advocacy to disabled people in East Suffolk. We welcome applications from all sections of the community to enable us to have a diverse trustee board that reflects our clients and community. Interested? For an application form or an informal discussion about the role, contact Isobel Abbott at: isobel.daisy@btinternet.com The closing date is Monday 10 February.
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COUNCILLOR CAROLINE’S COLUMN January 25 is Burns Night, the night when English supermarkets are suddenly flooded with haggis and everybody talks knowledgeably of ‘neeps’ and ‘tatties’. Whisky is drunk, haggises are addressed and people sing Auld Lang Syne and stumble over takin’ a right guid willie waught in the second verse. (Apparently a guid willie waught is a goodwill drink, in case you were wondering). Auld Lang Syne must be Burns’ best known work, sung right across the globe and on many occasions. Even by about a billion people in China – although there it is known as You Yi Di Jiu Tian Chang. All in all, quite an achievement for the Ploughman Poet of 18th century Ayrshire. But almost as well-known is Burns’ poem To a Mouse, which starts “Wee, sleekit, cowering, timorous beastie…” This describes the panic and despair of a poor field-mouse who, having prepared for winter in its snug nest, has suddenly had home and livelihood destroyed – accidentally – by a plough. The mouse is forced into the icy winter with no chance of being able to replace its home or store of food, despite all its care and forethought. But of course this isn’t just a poem about a mouse, for it’s not only mice who might meet with sudden disaster despite careful planning. The best laid schemes of mice and men go oft awry, Burns concludes. Misfortune, need, poverty and disaster do not occur to people because they court it. Misery can come out of thin air and flatten you. Loss of jobs, illness and family breakup are common causes of homelessness today snd the average weekly income of households at food banks is only £50 after paying rent, with one in five people having no money whatsoever coming in in the month before they were referred. A main issue is that people applying for Universal Credit have to wait at least five weeks – and often longer – before receiving money. Some are offered an advance payment, but this is a loan that must be paid back, often kick-starting debt. This is not a problem of somewhere else. In this brave new decade, 137 local people are relying on the wonderful food bank – run by the Salvation Army at Woodbridge. This includes 30 families with children. Sad but true. Even more sadly, the need for donations is growing. The Salvation Army is wonderful: they don’t judge and don’t turn people away. Unlike other food banks they don’t have a maximum number of times that people can ask for food. To support this essential work, I will be working with Woodbridge Farmers’ Market to run a food bank collection point on the second and fourth Saturday morning of every month. Please help! Be part of somebody’s happy New Year. Suggestions: tins of potatoes, vegetables, soup, baked beans, spaghetti, hot dogs; tins of rice pudding, fruit, etc.; tea bags, instant coffee, cereal, powdered/tinned milk, toiletries such as toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sanitary towels, moisturiser, hand cream and deodorant. Councillor Caroline Page
SCHEHERAZADE SUPPER Raising money to repair St Mary’s Church, Dallinghoo Friday 13 March, Dallinghoo Jubilee Hall, 7 for 7.30pm Chef Ruth Quinlan offers a delicious three course meal of simple, tasty Middle Eastern dishes including dips, patties, bread, salads, a choice of gently-spiced beef or crispy onion tamarind lentils, a fragrant dessert and traditional mint tea. Tickets £27.50 from: 01473 737700 / JeremyQ@tiscali.co.uk Number limited; avoid disappointment by booking soon! Cash bar.
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OUT & ABOUT RIVER DEBEN ASSOCIATION The River Deben Association invited Nic Bury, associate dean and professor of aquatic toxicology at the University of Suffolk, and Jane Herbert, project officer at the Essex and Suffolk Rivers Trust, to speak at their November meeting. Nic identified current challenges, including that fact that sewage plants are struggling to deal with micro and pharmaceutical pollutants which end up in the river, contraceptive chemicals which enter the sewage system which are linked to intersex in fish, pollutants which can lead to a reduction of the fish population and the increased use of insecticides which has led to a decrease in insects. The disposal of unwanted medicines by flushing them down the toilet adds to the problem of increased toxins. Microfibres are creating an increasing threat and we are only now beginning to explore the detrimental consequences. 700,000 micro plastic particles are extracted from one fleece jumper alone on its first wash. These micro particles bind together and are ingested by river organisms. The solution is dilution because the river is a natural protective agent against pollution. Even so, the chemicals and microfibres end up in the river sediment. Nic encouraged local authorities to analyse mud from dredging and take action. Moreover, the benefits of dilution are now being significantly challenged by the reduction in water levels caused by increased siltation of the river which diminishes the capacity to dilute pollutants. Practical steps to improve the Deben Jane explored the current status of the river and the practical steps we can take to protect it. The Deben, as defined by the EU Water Framework Directive, has only a moderate quality status (further details and criteria available at: https://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning). The river doesn’t have a higher rating because the fish population is not as plentiful and the level of phosphates is too high, which may be due to untreated discharge and farm run-off. If the sewage system is overloaded (e.g. after heavy rain) it is designed to overflow into rivers rather than into people’s homes. What you can do: • Only put dirty water down the sink (not oils, fats, food scraps, etc.) • Don’t put wipes, cotton buds, etc. down the toilet • Don’t put cigarette ends down the drain or in the gutter • Return unwanted medicines to the chemist • Ensure washing machines and bathrooms are plumbed into the sewerage system, not the rainwater pipes • Clear up dog mess to avoid it being washed down the gutter straight into the river • Use appropriate pesticides and fertilisers and encourage councils to reduce reliance on chemicals in parks • Wash clothes less; polyester has micro plastic fibres too • Follow the yellow fish campaign which is active in this area • Encourage companies to reduce plastic packaging and minimise your use to essential items Challenges and choices: Consultation deadline April 2020 Jane encouraged everyone to read the Environment Agency’s consultation document, or just the part in which they are interested. You can find it at: https://consult.environment-agency.gov.uk/environment-and-business/ challenges-and-choices Its key themes include water levels and flows, chemicals, invasive species, modification of channels and various pollutants.
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WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY February 3-26: ArtLib Exhibition of Pencil Paintings by Rosario Zinna Thursday 6 February, 6pm: Life on the Deben (see p10) Tuesday 18 February, 10am-noon: Tony the Turtle Patchwork Class with Annabelle Reynolds. Make a delightful small toy using the English paper piecing method. Stuffing not included. Cost £12 (includes all materials, use of all equipment plus a complimentary cup of tea or coffee). To book contact: 07753 960227 / annabellerey4textiles@gmail.com Tuesday 25 February, 12.45-1.30pm: Music at Lunchtime (see p10) Wednesday 26 February, 9.30am-noon: Get Help to Get Active Dropin Session. OneLife Suffolk’s Get Help to Get Active service is designed for ‘inactive adults’ doing less than 30 minutes of moderate activity per week and living with a long-term health condition. Its aim is to support and encourage individuals to increase their levels of physical activity by offering three levels of support. Starting from self-care signposting to psychologically informed behaviour change sessions, dependent on the person’s needs. The team at OneLife Suffolk understand that being physically active can be very challenging, particularly if you are faced with a long-term condition. They can provide the tools and information to enable you to gradually increase your activity levels, in a safe and effective way. Wednesday 26 February, 7.30pm: In Conversation with Novelist Liz Trenow This popular novelist talks about the inspiration for her latest book, set around the development of radar at Bawdsey during the Second World War. Liz is the author of several historical novels including The Last Telegram, The Forgotten Seamstress and The Poppy Factory. Her first two books were inspired by her family’s story as silk weavers in Suffolk. She worked as a journalist on regional and national newspapers, BBC radio and television news, before writing fiction. Her latest novel is a gripping romantic drama centred on real-life events at the top secret, wartime research station near Felixstowe. It tells the story of the people behind the discovery of radar. Tickets are £12 and include a copy of Under a Wartime Sky (RRP £7.99), and are available from Browsers Bookshop: 01394 388890 Saturday 29 February, 7.30-8.45pm: Pilgrim: The Search for Lost Love by Dominic Shea and Andrew Leach. Pilgrim is a folk tale of an everyman abandoned by his true-love. At its heart is the idea of love as a journey, not a possession. It is a pilgrimage to the Eden of True-love’s garden. Pilgrim encounters False-love, the celebrity Fairy Queen, and his own destructive other self. Constantly challenged, he endures until finally united with True-love. This dramatised reading, with music, celebrates the story and its possibilities through references that are timeless, yet contemporary. Truth and lies cross each other in stories of what we want, and what we believe can make us whole, or give us meaning. Pilgrim is a broken love story, redeemed by love. Doors open at 7pm for pre-performance drinks. Tickets are £8 each and available in person from Woodbridge Library, on 01394 330855, or direct from Terry Sheppey: 07412 628828 / tsheppey@precisiontexts.com
WOODBRIDGE & DISTRICT LIONS Woodbridge Lions Club would like to thank everyone who contributed so generously to their street and store collections in the run-up to Christmas with special thanks to Tesco Martlesham Heath and Suffolk Coastal District Council for their kind permission to hold collections. In total we raised £887, which will help them to continue to be able to support local good causes. Proceeds were as follows: Tesco Martlesham Heath, 6 December: £312 Tesco Martlesham Heath, 10 December: £270 Woodbridge, Turban Centre, 21 December: £305 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 the Quay Time joint venture with Woodbridge Quay Church. For more details or to contact us, please call 0345 8332820 or visit: www.woodbridgelions.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT FILM AND JAZZ EVENTS AT THE LIBRARY This month film director Tim Curtis will be showing previously unseen film shot for Life on the Deben at Woodbridge Library. The film, followed last autumn by the book of the same title, has rapidly become a local favourite. Inevitably, though, some scenes ended up on the cutting-room floor. Some of these will be shown at a special event on Thursday 6 February at 6pm. Tim will introduce the previously unseen footage and he and Nick Cottam will talk about the creation of the extremely attractively produced book that now complements the DVD. Refreshments will be served and there will be plenty of opportunity to question the creators and the book will be on sale. Tickets for this special event are available from the library (01394 330855) at £5 each. Later in the month, local four-piece band Pick ‘n’ Mix will perform lunchtime music at the library. On Tuesday 25 February at 12.45pm, Tim, Chris, Ian and Steve will play an eclectic mix of jazz classics, pop and country music. The four friends have played together and with other local groups for many years – you may have seen them at garden parties, pubs and country fairs. Their assortment of old favourites and the occasional lesser-known piece will set toes tapping. As ever, lunchtime music at the library is free.
WOODBRIDGE MUSEUM On December 6, David Stannard gave us a fascinating talk entitled Spoyle’d by the Rage of the Sea, an account of North Sea storms through the ages which have wreaked havoc on our coastline. The list ranged from pre-Conquest accounts to the recent storms of the present day. The talk went on to show how these storms have inspired any number of organisations, created to mitigate their disastrous effects. UPCOMING TALKS 21 February: Woodbridge Myths and Misconceptions by Bob Merrett 20 March: Fate and Arthur Ransome’s Boat, Nancy Blackett by Mike Rines 12 April: Woodbridge Tide Mill Past and Present by Nigel Barrett 15 May: Keep Taking ye Tablets by Liz Wood Following on from its successful first season in its new home by the river, Woodbridge Museum will be open at the weekends throughout the winter months. It will open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11am until 3pm. We had a pleasingly good number of visitors over the holiday period, but the numbers may have been even higher if the tourist signposts around town didn’t still direct people to the Market Hill site. It has been requested that the signs should be altered several times, but as yet nothing has been done about them. We are already taking bookings for the next day school on 7 March. The subject this time will be The Long Armistice: Britain 1919-39. The lectures will be given again by Dr Andrew Lacey. For further information about Friday talks and the next day school, contact 01394 585572.
QUIZ NIGHT Sunday 2 February from 7.30pm at Kesgrave Social Club, Edmonton Road, Kesgrave IP5 1EE Doors open at 7pm Bar and food available Teams of up to six players, £2.50 per person All proceeds go to Ipswich & District Kidney Association For more information contact Carol: 07922 155181
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YOUNGER DANCERS TRY OUT DANCE FOLKUS Our second dance of 2020 is on Friday 7 February. The caller will be the ebullient Nicki Acott from Hacheston, so expect some lively dances and little time to rest. The Dance Folkus ‘CAY’ band led by Harbour lights will be playing some great tunes for dancing. The number of band members on stage reached 15 at our last dance, but we would be happy with a few more. We have been getting increasing numbers of younger people attending, so why not join them in a fun, fitness conscious, social evening out. The dance runs from 7.30-10.30pm so it’s a good place for groups to start a night out before moving on to some late-night revelry, if you’re not too tired! Our special song spot guest is Hollesley’s wizard anglo concertina player, Alan Day. Alan has been at the forefront in promoting concertina playing through his concertina.net website and organising compilation CDs showcasing the best national and international players. He is a well-known player both in Suffolk and Sussex and has performed in bands such as The Biggest Trio in the World, Rosbif and GIGCB. He performs music hall songs, recites monologues and plays English and Breton music as well as some of his own compositions. This is your chance to hear a local anglo concertina maestro. New dancers can book a discounted ticket via Dancefolkus@aol.com or 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 first-time dancers are always very welcome to attend our dances at Woodbridge Community Hall in Station Road IP12 4AU. Tickets can also be booked online at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/woodbridge-dance-folkus
INNER WHEEL CLUB OF WOODBRIDGE What an excellent start to the New Year! At our January meeting, Chris, our president, welcomed our guest speaker, Rick Chapman, a master craftsman jeweller. Rick told us of his Goldsmith Company apprenticeship years, working at Asprey in London making exquisite jewellery for select clients before eventually setting up a family business – now based in Woodbridge – with his wife, who is the designer, making bespoke items for personal clients. Commissions can include making items from scratch or redesigning and resetting existing jewellery. An increasingly popular innovation of the business is a Make Your Own Wedding Ring course. Rick gave us an insight into the design and making process, explaining the hallmarking and assaying systems, and how nothing is wasted. His skill and passion for his craft was evident, and he concluded by showing us a couple of beautiful pieces he had made for his own family. Deirdre Rothwell warmly thanked him on behalf of us all. Later in January we will be celebrating International Inner Wheel Day with a social get together over a soup lunch. We will be supporting the St Elizabeth Hospice Quiz at the end of January and then gearing up for our own big Charity Quiz Night on February 28 at Woodbridge Community Hall at 7.30pm with teams of four to six people. For more information and to book a table, please contact Deirdre Griffin: 07711 103610 / griffindeirdre4@gmail.com For more general information about our club, please visit: www.woodbridgeinnerwheel.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE WI
SPEAK EASY AT MARTLESHAM
For Woodbridge WI, 2019 ended with a splendid party, delicious food and fiendish quizzes. The year had been filled with interesting speakers from Tools with a Mission for Africa to a ukulele band, when we all sang along to songs of the 60s and were amazed at how many of the words we remembered.
One place where you are sure of a warm welcome during the cold winter months is Speak Easy at Martlesham Speakers’ Club. Members of all ages and all walks of life come to enjoy evenings of speaking to improve their skills and confidence within a friendly, sociable and encouraging atmosphere. Each meeting provides opportunities for members to take on roles and give short speeches as well as enjoying the huge variety of subjects they hear about in speeches during the evening.
Several outings were arranged, the most notable being that to Jane Kemble’s outstanding collection of vintage clothes, all displayed in room settings. Several members also went to the exhibition at Christchurch Mansion and the Women 100 exhibition at Ipswich Art Gallery. The book groups, coffee mornings, sewing club and garden group continue to thrive with much laughter and enthusiasm all round. Our last meeting was on January 8 when our guest speaker was from the Fisherman’s Mission. If you are interested in joining us, we meet at the Methodist Church in St John’s Street on the second Wednesday of every month (except August) at 7.30pm. Please contact our president for further information: 01394 610596
ORWELL DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY We are delighted to confirm that our new season of talks will commence on Wednesday 5 February. Our talks cover a broad spectrum of art and are delivered within a relaxed and welcoming environment. If any of the talks interest you and you would like to know more, please come and meet us. We are always happy to welcome new people. The guest speaker on February 5 is Aliki Braine. Her talk is titled Same Old Same New. Aliki questions whether old masters help us understand modern works. Her resumé includes her role as associate director for the University of the Arts London. She regularly exhibits her photographic work internationally. The guest speaker on Wednesday 4 March is Shawn Kholucy. Shawn explores the driving force behind the architect and designer R R Ashbee and is talk is titled R R Ashbee – What Made Him Do It. We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Meetings begin at 2pm and last about an hour, with refreshments available from 1.30-2pm. 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
WOODBRIDGE PROBUS Our AGM on January 6 was a meeting with much sadness as members learnt of the sudden death of our secretary Ray Hooper on New Year’s Day. Ray was a former chairman and served Probus in several capacities for many years. Anything you needed organising, you went to Ray knowing it would be in safe hands. He also ran our excellent website. We stood in silence to his memory and our thoughts are with his wife Susan and the family. Roger Brown, our treasurer, assured us that we had a healthy balance. Erik Crichton, our new chairman, outlined the coming year’s activities, presented a list of speakers for 2020 and gave a vote of thanks to Tom Zabel, our outgoing chair, for an excellent year’s service. All the existing committee members agreed to continue. Our next meeting is on Monday 4 February when a speaker from Co-Op Estate Planning will present a talk entitled Tax, Care and Toy Boys, A Will is Not Enough. Planning and protecting what you have worked hard for has never been more important. Do have a look at our website or you can call Howard Davies at 01394 385023. Come and have lunch; we would like to meet you. We are a friendly lot! www.woodbridgeprobus.org.uk
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If you are 18 years or over and would like to improve your confidence, public speaking or leadership skills (both formally and informally), why not come along to Speak Easy at Martlesham Speakers’ Club yourself? Meetings are held on alternate Thursdays, 7/7.15-9.30pm at The Richards Room, Martlesham Community Hall, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham IP12 4PB (behind Tesco). The next Speak Easy at Martlesham meetings in 2020 are February 6 and 20 and March 5 and 19; subsequent dates continue fortnightly. For further information please contact Margaret Stanway: 07979 373934 / president@speak-easy.org.uk Or visit: www.speak-easy.org.uk / Facebook: SpeakEasyMartlesham
MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY Monday 10 February: The Treasure of Ipswich by John Field Did you know that Ipswich is full of architectural treasures of historical importance? If not, come along and find out about the town’s mediaeval churches, mansions and halls, its important legacy of Victorian buildings, nationally and locally listed buildings and the many features and artefacts of local, national (and even some of international) importance. Meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion and start at 7.30pm. Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.
HISTORY AND HAUNTINGS: U3A’S FEBRUARY’S PROGRAMME As the new year gets underway, U3A members are braving the winter weather to attend speaker meetings on topics ranging from the story of Crystal Palace and the Great Exhibition, the development of the English language to the history of afternoon tea! U3A is aimed at older people who want to get as much as possible out of life. There are no entry qualifications, no barriers to joining and lots of activities to get involved in. New members are welcome. Monday 27 January, 2-4pm at Kesgrave Community Centre Suffolk Ghosts and Hauntings: A stimulating selection of ghost stories, haunted houses and frightening apparitions. Presented by Robert Halliday. Thursday 6 February, 10.30am-12.30pm at Felixstowe Salvation Army Hall The U3A Story: How it all started. Presented by Leslie Stringer. Thursday 13 February, 2-4pm at Saxmundham Market Hall Crystal Palace and the Great Exhibition: An account of the design and building of Crystal Palace, a description of the exhibits and the importance of the exhibition. Presented by Dr Geoffrey Kay. Monday 24 February, 2-4pm at Kesgrave Community Centre The History of Spoken English: An in-depth look at how our English language came into being, from the Angles, Saxons, Vikings and Normans. Presented by Charlie Haylock. Thursday 5 March, 10.30am-12.30pm at Felixstowe Salvation Army Hall Everything Stops for Tea: A history of tea and a look at favourite afternoon tea destinations across East Anglia. Presented by Eve Regelous. For membership details visit: www.a3aeastsuffolk.org.uk Occasionally U3A may have to make last minute changes so please see the website for up to date information.
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OUT & ABOUT LEISTON & DISTRICT PHILATELIC SOCIETY The society, which is now celebrating its 50th year, will meet at the United Church Hall in Leiston from approximately 7.15pm on Wednesday 26 February. This will be the society’s competition evening and bourse. Membership of the society is £5 per annum (50p for students up to 18 years) payable in September. New members are always welcome. You may be interested to learn how our society started. In 1970, a small group of four to five stamp collectors came together to share their interest in stamp collecting and decided that it would be a good idea to meet on a regular basis to further discuss the hobby. Initial meetings were in the Red Cross hut in Kitchener Road and at the library in Main Street, Leiston, but later moved to the Constitutional Club in Waterloo Avenue. By 1997 the society had a formal programme and was inviting speakers to come and display and talk at meetings. In 2005, the venue was changed to the United Church Hall where the society continues to meet to this day. The society now has almost 50 members with a catchment area stretching from Rayden, near Southwold in the north to Felixstowe in the south. A display stand about the society and its activities, and items about stamp collecting in general is at Felixstowe Library in February, but will be in Woodbridge Museum for the whole of July. We hope that local residents will take the opportunity to visit and view the display.
WOODBRIDGE CAMERA CLUB
WOODBRIDGE WILDLIFE GROUP There is an opportunity to learn more about badgers when Adrian Hinchcliffe from Suffolk Badger Group gives a talk entitled Badgers – the Eurasian Marmite Mammal at Woodbridge Community Hall on Thursday 20 February, starting at 7.30pm. The talk has been organised by Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Woodbridge Wildlife Group and chairman Phil Smith said: “The badger is an iconic species and this promises to be a fascinating talk”. Admission is £3 for adults, with free entry for under-16s. There will be a raffle and light refreshments will be served during the evening. There’s no need to book. but for further information please contact Phil Smith: 01473 625630 / swtwoodbridge@outlook.com EVENTS AT FOXBURROW FARM Saturday 1 February, 10am-noon Weekend Wildlife Club Ages 6-11 / £3 / booking essential Wednesdays 5 and 12 February, 10.30am-noon Wild Tots: Forest School activities and wild play for under-fives £5 per child / booking essential Saturday 15 February, 10am-noon Young Wardens, practical conservation skills Ages 11-16 / £3 / booking essential Saturday 15 February, 2-4pm Family Forest School 18 months+ / children £4, adults £2 / booking essential Tuesday 18 February, 10.30am-12.30pm Tracks and Trails Family Morning Ages 3+ / children £4, adults £2 / booking essential Wednesday 19 February, 1-3pm Bird Box and Feeder Making for Families Ages 3+ / £10 per nest box / booking essential Friday 21 February, 10am-2pm Activity Day: The Hunted and Hunting Ages 6-11 / £7 / booking essential
Woodbridge Camera Club finished off the year with a Christmas meal at The Riverside. This annual event included a Christmas card competition judged by manager Stuart Saunders. Club chair Robin Garrod won for the third year running. When thanking Stuart for his prize, Robin teased members they must try harder next year. Members are now working towards the print competition Dusk till Dawn on 18 February.
IPSWICH & DISTRICT PHILATELIC SOCIETY The first meeting of 2020 was held at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Hall on Wednesday 15 January. The meeting featured a local dealer, Roger Swindells, who brought along a vast amount of his stock for us to peruse and purchase. His stock covers the entire world, but especially GB. He also had a standing display of one of his many thematic collections. This month’s meeting will return to Cedarwood Primary School on Wednesday 5 February from 7.30-10pm, where our members will show some of their own collections. Refreshments will be available, so why not come and join us? Information can be found online or by contacting our secretary, Mike Smith: 01473 403904 / michaelsmith1949@gmail.com / www.ipswichphilatelic.uk
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Tuesday 25 February, 10am-2pm Activity day for home educated children Ages 6-11 / £7 / booking essential Foxburrow Farm, Saddlemakers Lane, Melton IP12 1NA Booking: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org / 01473 890089
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 Monday of each month during term times from 10.30am-noon at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. Sessions are free and usually based on a theme. They normally include singing, games, crafts and Bible stories. After each session we have refreshments, when the adults can chat and the children can play until approximately noon. The spring season dates are 10 and 24 February and 9 and 23 March. Just turn up, there’s no need to let us know in advance. For further information please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196
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OUT & ABOUT / SPORT DEBEN FLOWER CLUB MEMBERS’ EVENING The next meeting is on Tuesday 11 February 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 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.
IPSWICH & DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB We have money on our mind – and we want to ask your help! What we are thinking about is our Educational Bursary Fund. This offers small grants to women whose lives have been overshadowed by a traumatic experience, but who, with the support of one of the local organisations with whom we partner, have worked through the pain and damage and are now ready to start out on a new life. Recently we have made several grants, ranging from buying a laptop for a woman setting off to university to study law to funding some training for another wanting to set up an online business selling the glamorous lingerie which she designs and makes herself. It is a real privilege, and a humbling one, to be able to offer some small help to such courageous women. Now our fund needs a serious top up. We are starting our fundraising effort with a quiz at Seckford Golf Club on April 1. Please book the date now and tell your friends. We would so appreciate your support. For more information please contact Joyce: 01394 615659
BADMINTON FOR BEGINNERS
With the advent of the new year, Woodbridge Cruising Club welcomes the new commodore, Phil Wadley. Phil has taken over from Freeman Lynn, whom thanks must go to for a successful tenure which saw many initiatives and a thriving membership. The Christmas festivities began in style with 80 club members enjoying a delicious feast at the Commodore’s Christmas party on Saturday 14 December. The dinners sung the praises of the galley crew who did a fantastic job. Entertainment was provided by club members. As sailing is infrequent during winter, the programme of Sunday talks continues. Captain Peter King gave an interesting, amusing and informative talk entitled Escape from Burma, the story of the civilian Last Ditchers in Burma (Myanmar) in the Second World War who stayed behind and destroyed the strategically important Burmese oil resources, before twice escaping under atrocious conditions. This was the fascinating tale of Peter’s father and his contribution in denying the Japanese the resources they had come to Burma for, which was crucial to ultimate Allied victory. There were amazing photographs of Burma in the years preceding and during the war, and characters from history such as Field Marshall Slim and Leslie Forster’s contributions were entwined with the personal story of Harry King. The Wednesday suppers continue at the clubhouse with up to 40 members enjoying home cooked food and conversation. Other winter activities are the weekly maintenance parties (with homemade cake), Thursday walks (followed by a pub lunch), Monday dancing and, of course, the bar is open to all members on Saturday and Sunday lunch times. Over Christmas there was a Boxing Day lunchtime event with mince pies and mulled wine. New Year’s Eve saw the usual party to welcome in the New Year, with dancing, a buffet and merriment for more than 60 club members, followed by a New Year’s Day walk along the river for 40 hardy souls (and dogs), with soup and drinks back at the clubhouse.
At this time of year it can be difficult getting some exercise without braving the winter weather or going to a gym. Playing badminton is a much more enjoyable alternative. A recent survey has revealed that 991,800 adults in England play badminton at least once per month so, although rarely seen on television, it’s a very popular sport to play. Suffolk Badminton Association has been running recreational badminton sessions in Woodbridge for several years. For those who have not played before or perhaps have only played at school, two of the six courts are going to be reserved for beginners. The emphasis will be on fun so there will be no coaching, although some guidance will be available on aspects of the sport. Rackets will be available to borrow and shuttlecocks will be provided. The sessions are on Friday evenings from 8-9.30pm in The Dome Sports Hall at Woodbridge School.
However, activities do not just revolve around food and drink. There is a range of Sunday talks, mainly on a nautical theme. Talks for the New Year include Sutton Hoo, Harwich Haven and the sinking of HMS Lolaire. There are other events such as a homemade curry night on February 1, a games evening and a live ceilidh band and caller on February 29. If all these whet your appetite and you want to join a friendly cruising club, do peruse the club website where full details are found. www.woodbridgecruisingclub.org
To encourage people to try badminton, first sessions are free; after that it’s just £3 (£1.50 for full-time students). There is no membership requirement so no membership fee. Players aged about 14 to 65+ are welcome, but those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To reserve a place or for further information, please contact Peter Webb: 01394 386452 / peter@suffolkbadminton.co.uk Other opportunities to play badminton locally may be found by visiting: www.suffolkbadminton.co.uk
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HMS Iolaire 1919
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ON THE GRAPEVINE
AUCTION TRENDS IN A SELECTIVE MARKET PLACE Following a record breaking sale in July last year, with a sales total of more than £265,000, Nigel Papworth from Diamond Mills & Co in Felixstowe reports on recent auction trends and a selective marketplace. It’s clear from recent results around the country that the market for Chinese porcelain and works of art is continuing to attract strong competition. There was a sale in early August in Bath where a Yongzheng celadon coloured vase was sold for £220,000. Here at Diamond Mills on 31 July 2019, a Doucai porcelain vase (pictured) went for £200,000 after brisk bidding at home and from abroad. However, other areas are attracting many buyers. Gentleman’s wrist watches by manufacturers including Rolex, Omega, Patek Philippe and others are achieving record prices. In the field of taxidermy, cases of stuffed fish, particularly by J Cooper & Sons of London, are much in demand, and a bow front case of three rudd by Cooper was sold recently for £1,350.
Although in most cases, Chinese art is out performing Japanese and high quality Japanese items can do well. We recently sold a fine Japanese Meiji period fan with gold lacquered sticks and guards for £1,800. Strings of amber beads, in particular older yellow butternut examples, are also selling around the country in the hundreds to the thousands depending upon the quality and size. Items which appear to have fallen out of favour include modern China figurines, tea sets and dinner services, reproduction prints and most modern dark brown furniture. However, some modern furniture is still in demand, including light or beech-coloured Ercol and light oak items of Thomas Mouseman of Kilburn Furniture. Recently a pair of carved elephant and mouse oak bookends sold for £10,000 in the West Country. An important factor in all markets seems to be the quality of items rather than the age. For further information or to arrange a valuation, contact Nigel at: 01394 282281 / nigel@diamondmills.co.uk www.diamondmills.co.uk
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ON THE GRAPEVINE
EVERYBODY NEEDS GOOD NEIGHBOURS… Throughout the county Community Action Suffolk’s Good Neighbour Scheme Development Officer has supported community minded individuals and groups to setup, or maintain a network of over 30 Good Neighbour Schemes, and this number is growing all the time! A Good Neighbour Scheme is a voluntary initiative setup and run by a group of local residents who want to help people living in their locality to enjoy a better quality of life by offering them sup port with every day tasks, or a friendly face to chat to. They help older people, those who may be lonely or isolated, people living with disabilities, single or young parents, and those temporarily in need of a little support due to illness or injury… basically anyone in need of a little help, or friendly support from their community to get on with living their life! Good Neighbour Scheme volunteers provide a trustworthy & friendly face and helping pair of hands, with some carrying out simple tasks such as grass cutting and light bulb changing, to others offering transport to social activities and medical appointments, or befriending.
QUESTIONS ON CASH
With Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb Alan from Diss is concerned about his role as a trustee. He writes: “My father left a significant sum of money in trust for the benefit of my son, who will inherit in four years time at age 21. My uncle, who was joint trustee with my aunt, died last year and I was appointed as a replacement trustee. I am concerned that the money is invested in shares. Do we have the right to cash these in and invest the money elsewhere?” As a trustee, you have a difficult and often thankless role. Although you don’t own the trust assets, you have to look after them as if they were your own. The Trustee Act 2000 states that trustees must show due care and diligence in the management of trust assets. When dealing with large sums of cash, it is essential that trustees take professional advice on investing the money. The traditional approach of just slapping everything into a portfolio of stocks and shares is not really an acceptable investment strategy.
Each scheme’s offer is unique to its community, but with the same overarching aim to build a stronger and more resilient community where people know each other and help out where needed… it’s old fashioned neighbourliness and community spirit, but in the modern age!
Tax efficiency is a very important consideration for trustees. The dividends produced from stocks and shares held in a trust fund attract income tax at the trustee rate, which is currently 45 percent. There are much more tax efficient investments available for trust money, such as single premium investment bonds. These are particularly trustfriendly investments where regular withdrawals of the capital can be taken within certain limits to produce an ‘income’ for the beneficiaries without any immediate payment of tax. If you ignore these investments in favour of less tax efficient options, you must be able to show good reasons why.
The Suffolk Good Neighbour Scheme Network project is supported by the National Lottery’s Community Fund, who provided Community Action Suffolk with funding to place a Development Officer in post to support communities throughout Suffolk to develop their own schemes. Your Good Neighbour Scheme Development Officer can guide you through the steps towards setting up a scheme in your community and will provide support as needed along the way.
You also have a responsibility to meet regularly to review the trust and to take professional guidance on the management of any assets. If it is a discretionary trust, you should be able to demonstrate that you have exercised your discretion in making decisions and that you regularly review those decisions. Examples might be how the income from the trust is distributed and who receives it. Minutes of all the trustee meetings should be kept in writing.
The benefit of bringing a Good Neighbour Scheme to a community can never be underestimated and it makes a real difference to those most in need, particularly the elderly or vulnerable!
Generally speaking, unless you have experience and professional qualifications, DIY investment management is not a good idea. Unless the trust assets are being actively managed by a financial adviser or discretionary fund manager, you may not be able to demonstrate that they are being professionally managed. That could again leave you open to allegations of negligence or even breach of trust. In this case, the beneficiary is your son, so it is unlikely that this will happen, but you should still take care and make sure you are protected.
Some GNS also host events such as coffee mornings, afternoon teas, lunches and Christmas parties, or get involved with supporting the running of, or helping to provide transport to their local events, Meet Up Mondays or Rural Coffee Caravan visits, in order to provide much needed social opportunities, to help bring their community together and fight loneliness and isolation.
If you’re interested to find out more about setting up a safe and sustainable Good Neighbour Scheme, or about existing schemes near you, get in touch with Community Action Suffolk’s Good Neighbour Scheme Development Officer Jane Arkley-Crouch, via phone 01473 345429 or email: jane.arkley-crouch@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk
I would recommend that you and your aunt should seek the advice of an independent financial adviser, who has experience of advising trustees and management of trustee investments. He or she could review the current investment arrangements and offer some guidance on re-investment and ongoing management of the trust assets within more tax efficient investment wrappers. Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb Financial Services. Post your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham IP6 8JP, email nickplumb@aol.com, or telephone Nick on 01473 830301. Nick’s comments and answers to reader’s questions in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require advice on their own situation should contact Nick to arrange a no-obligation complimentary initial consultation to discuss their own position. Plumb Financial Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
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Are you a PTA or Friends of Schools/PRUs or community group such as Brownies, Scouts or a youth project? Would you like ÂŁ1000 to help children and young people be a part of a project about reducing sugar in their diet? Find out more at: www.suffolkcf.org.uk/grants/sugar-reduction-fund or contact Suffolk Community Foundation and ask about Sugar Reduction Fund on 01473 602602 or info@suffolkcf.org.uk
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SUFFOLK HOW ARE YOU?
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