In Touch
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with Melton, Rendlesham & Woodbridge Volume 9 • Issue No. 5 • September 2019
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I’ve just been home to see my family in Ireland and to spend some time on the farm with mum and dad. We had an influx of cousins which, despite the constant cooking, was a lot of fun. It was lovely to see all our children playing together, with the occasional squabble as I suspect there might have been when we were young. Back then, my cousin Eilish and I spent many long summers torturing my older brother with water balloons and nettles (don’t ask!). We even carved his name and the name of a certain girl on a roadside tree for all to see. Needless to say that didn’t go down very well, with either of them! Things have changed a lot since then and what struck me most this time was how quiet everywhere seemed to be. Our local town used to be a thriving metropolis (at least in my mind) but now it’s a bit downtrodden with a few too many boarded-up shops. A number of big employers have either closed down or moved elsewhere in recent years and where jobs go, people are forced to follow, in many cases moving abroad to Australia and Canada. I don’t know exactly when things started to slide so badly, but I’ve returned to Suffolk with renewed determination to support local producers, local manufacturers, local shops and bars and restaurants and local events. Without our support they simply can’t survive and thrive and ultimately we all lose out. We are forced to travel further to shop, we struggle to find employment close to home, our children leave to find jobs elsewhere and, as in my home town, a general lack of ‘vitality’ sets in which may be difficult to overcome. We may not know what the future holds, but we all have spending power and how and where we choose to spend our money will impact the local economy. Every penny we spend locally is an investment in our community, in our children’s future, in the look and feel of our towns and villages… I know I’d rather spend time in a bustling town or village with a mix of shops and cafes and restaurants, where activities are well attended, where people are confident about the future and where ‘community’, the natural outcome when residents and neighbours enjoy where they live, is strong. It’s in our hands to make it so and I’m proud to edit a series of magazines which celebrate community and enable local employers to share their wares. I also believe it’s important to know what’s happening in our local communities, to keep abreast of local developments and to know what’s what and who’s who. So make a cup of tea, sit back and enjoy.
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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 • Shotley, 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 • Westerfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall
NEWS QUAY TIME AT QUAY CHURCH HALL On Wednesday 17 July, Quay Time, a monthly meeting for those who welcome the opportunity to chat with others over tea/coffee and cake, met as usual on the third Wednesday of the month in the church hall. Attendees saw actors playing the part of Mrs Edith Pretty and Basil Brown, the people behind the discovery and development of Sutton Hoo into a site of national and international archaeological importance. In character, the actors took part in a mock question and answer session at which ‘Mrs Pretty’ explained how, prompted by her travels as a young woman and family background, she started a small excavation by employing local archaeologist Basil Brown. Her instinct was reinforced by one of her family seeing a vision of a warrior on horseback on one of the mounds. ‘Basil Brown’ described how he started the work and, by day three, had found the rivets outlining the ship and how the dig progressed from there. The Ipswich and British Museums supported the ensuing activity and the priceless nature of the site and its artefacts soon became apparent, leading to speculation that it was the burial site of Raedwald, the King of the East Anglia. ‘Mrs Pretty’ said she donated the treasures to the nation where they remain, to this day, at the British Museum. Quay Time is a joint Woodbridge and District Lions Club and Woodbridge Quay Church project and the next meeting is on Wednesday 25 September. For further information, call Keith or Wendy Palmer on 01394 384414 or Stella Benton on 01728 561379.
RAINBOWS BRING CUPS OF KINDNESS TO WINIFRED FISON HOUSE On a sunny Saturday in June, the two Woodbridge (St Mary’s) Rainbow Units potted up some planters and scattered wildflower seeds at Winifred Fison House in Melton. They were joined by residents, and the front entrance was transformed with lots of colourful blooms. The girls also gave ‘thinking cups of kindness’ – a flower with a poem in a pot decorated with bright squares, just like Elmer, the Elephant. Stories of the past, present and future were shared, then cake and squash consumed. Real community spirit was evident, not least by the sponsors and contributors: Jewsons of Woodbridge, Robertsons Boatyard, Flagship Housing, Notcutts, Dobbies, Royal Botanical Gardens Kew, #Grow Wild, Kathy Fraser, Rita Alkins, Ros Champkin and Girlguiding Seckford District.
We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe
Tue 10 September is the advertising and editorial deadline for the October edition
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NEWS JETTY LANE UPDATE
MAKE SHIP HAPPEN FUNDRAISER SETS SAIL
More than 200 people kick started a £1 million fundraising campaign to reconstruct a Saxon ship by sponsoring some of the 3,500 metal rivets needed to hold it together. On July 27, Jetty Lane Chair Caroline Page and Project Manager Cordelia Richman finally signed the formal 125-year lease at peppercorn rent and in August Jetty Lane became a registered charity. “We are ready to fly,” says Caroline. “What a long way we have come since that very first public meeting in January 2017 when the concerned people and dispossessed youth and community groups of Woodbridge came together to discuss the problem of the – recently condemned – Woodbridge Youth Centre and agreed to look at rebuilding. “There is a 70-year history of youth clubs, and community provision on that site, supported by wonderful volunteers. There has been a youth centre in exactly that place since 1949 – when Cherry Tree Road was still a muddy track. If we add together our 125-year lease to that past 70 years we are looking at an astonishing 200 year provision for the young people and community groups of Woodbridge. What a wonderful legacy for the town. This is history in the making.” The centre is called Jetty Lane because that’s the original name for the Woodbridge road that was rechristened ‘The Avenue’ in the 1940s and will be a landmark centre for young people, burgeoning artists and the wider community that will benefit both current and future generations of Woodbridge. It will be modern, vibrant, future-proofed, inclusive and welcoming to everyone, whatever their age, health or background. “We couldn’t have got where we are without the magnificent support of lovely people and community groups. Donations are always gratefully received – cheques should be now made payable to Jetty Lane CIO,” says Cordelia. Woodbridge Kuk Sool Won Martial Arts Club was one of the groups left homeless when the old building was demolished in 2017. Since then the club has had to move twice. Now, although the hall in Sutton where they are currently housed is lovely, the location is far from ideal. Keen to return to their base in Woodbridge, the club has made a commitment to make their home at Jetty Lane once the centre opens in 2022. Sensei Paul Taylor teaches three classes per week with people of all ages and abilities, up to and including black belts. Once at Jetty Lane he hopes to provide even more classes so everyone can benefit from the camaraderie, increased confidence and fitness that learning a martial art can bring. The trustees at Jetty Lane CIO will be glad to welcome Paul as an ‘anchor tenant’ – this benefits both parties as we can prove to funders that the centre will be used, and Paul knows that his club will be housed in a purpose-built centre in the heart of Woodbridge. Paul can be contacted via Facebook or at: pauldtaylor@hotmail.com If you are part of a community group that would like to hire space at Jetty Lane, if you need an office or if you’re interested in sponsoring an emerging artist, please register your interest by contacting Cordelia at: cordelia@jettylane.com
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The crowdfunder – Make Ship Happen – will allow a team of archaeologists, historians and shipbuilding experts and volunteers to build a full-size reconstruction of the seventh century Sutton Hoo ship. It allows members of the public to ‘own’ different parts of the ship through sponsorship – with the first assets being offered up at a launch event held at The Longshed in Woodbridge, jointly sponsored by The Angel, Woodbridge and Adnams Ghost Ship. Philip Leech, chairman and director of the Sutton Hoo Ship’s Company, which is responsible for the build, said: “The first phase of the donation programme allows people to sponsor one of more than 3,500 numbered metal rivets that will hold the ship together. Different parts of the ship – the keel, the planks and the stem and stern – will then be offered up for sponsorship. “The launch event was extremely well attended and there was a lot of excitement about what we have planned. So much so that we had a staggering £7,000 worth of donations from people who came to find out more about what was involved.” A sum of £2,000 was raised with the auction of rivet number 2,000 – the rivet positioned right at the tip of the ship and the only one which, due to its location, has to be inserted upside down. This went to Roger Michel, Director of the Oxford Institute for Digital Archaeology. He said: “It’s a very exciting project and I was very pleased to be there at its launch.” The build is likely to take around two years to complete and will involve teaching a number of volunteers traditional building methods so the reconstruction is as authentic as possible. All that was left of the mysterious ghost ship, buried beneath the sand of Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge, Suffolk, for 13 centuries was an impression of the rotted-away ship’s timbers. But plans have been produced digitally from the measurements taken at the excavation back in 1939 which revealed an early medieval burial ground that included the grave of Raedwald, an Anglo-Saxon king. Mr Leech added: “The build is a serious scientific endeavour and an example of experimental archaeology which is carried out by replicating or approximating the feasibility of ancient cultures. This is done by employing a number of methods, techniques, analysis and approaches based upon archaeological source material – in this instance raising a ghost ship based on the indent left by the original vessel. Everything will be carefully recorded so we can learn from the construction.” The ship will be created using wood supplied by the Crown Estate and involve a number of volunteers who have been taught traditional building methods. Once built, it will be tested at sea with a full crew of up to 40 rowers. If it looks possible, the team will erect a mast and see how well it sails. To sponsor one of the rivets for £20 please visit: www.makeshiphappen.co.uk Philip Leech is pictured (second from right) with (from left) Simon Steel, Joe Startin and Jacq Barnard. Picture supplied by Prominent PR.
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News / OUT & ABOUT STREET COLLECTION IN WOODBRIDGE ABF The Soldiers Charity wishes to thank the people of Woodbridge for their kindness and generosity shown during the collection for the charity held on 24 July, which raised the splendid sum of £323. This money will be used to help the rising number of army families, Second World War veterans, widows, children, the disabled and those affected by recent and current military operations. The funds raised in Woodbridge will, therefore, do a great deal of good in relieving their distress. Ian White, Secretary, Suffolk Committee, ABF The Soldiers Charity
WOODBRIDGE RIVERSIDE TRUST Going with the Flow – Tides and the Deben Estuary Most people know about tides on beaches – washing away sand castles or stranding jelly fish. But have you thought about why tides happen and the impact tides have in rivers, sometimes miles away from the sea? To explore these questions, Woodbridge Riverside Trust has commissioned an ambitious project, Going with the Flow – Tides and the Deben Estuary. Over the half-term holiday, October 16-27, a 10-day programme of demonstrations, activities and talks will take place in the Woodbridge Longshed. This is a broad subject and the trust is delighted to be working with nine other local organisations and to have funding support from Suffolk Coasts and Heaths AONB Sustainable Development Fund, DanceEast, Woodbridge Arts Society, the Institute of Physics, Draindoctor and Suffolk Cottage Holidays. For information and to book: www.woodbridgeriversidetrust.org/event
COUNCILLOR CAROLINE’S COLUMN
FASHION SHOW RETURNS TO WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY Leading clothes shops from Woodbridge’s Thoroughfare are again combining to produce a fashion show at the library. The catwalk will be set up among the bookshelves for Holly Blue, Ninni Noo, Laura Jane and Sweet Dreams to display their latest autumn fashions. The event will take place on Wednesday 2 October with doors opening at 7pm and the show itself starting at 7.30pm. Guests will be able to enjoy a welcome drink on arrival – all part of the ticket price of £8. Before the show starts and during the interval, guests will be able to browse best buys from a number of shops with stalls including Silver Sun, The Woodbridge Emporium, Tilley & Grace and the Lounge Hair and Beauty Salon. Many of the shops will also be donating raffle prizes so there will be the chance of winning something special. Entry will be by ticket only which are available from the service desk in Woodbridge Library. Last year’s inaugural event was a sell-out, so be sure to secure your ticket soon.
HERITAGE OPEN DAY WALKS WITH WOODBRIDGE ROTARY CLUB
So summer’s heat is over and we have now come to one of my favourite months of the year: September. The French revolutionaries renamed September ‘Fructidor’ in their calendar – and what a good name that is! September is a warm, generous fruit-filled time. A time when we have all the benefits of summer – long light days, vegetable patches reaching perfection, trees covered with apples, grapes on the vine, sloes on the thorn and rambling brambles everywhere. All the benefits of summer, but none of the negatives! The old saying is so true: “blessings brighten as they take their flight.” Would September be so glorious if it wasn’t signalling the downhill slide into the long nights and short grey days of winter? We celebrate it because it is glorious – and will shortly end. I think I may be particularly fond of September because I feel that I’ve reached the warm and balmy September of my own life. Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, and summer’s lease hath all too short a date. For me, the joys of youth are definitely overrated and every decade of age has left me happier than before. There are so many trials and pitfalls to face when you are young – so many insecurities both inside and outside yourself, so many threats to who you are and how you live and to all those you care about. You never ever stop worrying about your children, but these days I can stand back a bit and take the time to be more concerned about, for example, how the closure of children’s centres will affect the children of others – the Januaries and Februaries of our human year. When your own parents are gone, you can use everything you have gained from caring for them in the December of their lives to support the needs of others reaching the last months of their own human year. You may know I am chair of Jetty Lane, the charity that is building that muchneeded community youth and arts centre in Woodbridge. We finally signed the official 125-year lease in July and, planning agreed, are now fundraising for the build phase, hoping to open doors in early 2022. This September, I am really glowing to think of all the local generations it will serve – January to December – over the next century and beyond! Councillor Caroline Page
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Heritage Open Days (HODS) is England’s annual celebration of local history, architecture and culture, and this year celebrates its 25th anniversary. Coordinated nationally, but run with the help of thousands of volunteers, the September event is an opportunity for private owners to allow free access to properties and events which cast a light on what makes neighbourhoods and communities special. This year Woodbridge Rotary Club, on behalf of Woodbridge Town Council, is organising two history walks through the town as part of HODS in September. All the walks start from outside the Riverside Restaurant. Our thanks go to Mr Stuart Saunders for his support. The first of these walks is on September 14 (registration from 10am) and will visit all the places of Christian worship in the town. The club is very grateful for the co-operation of all the churches involved in providing a guide when each church is visited. The walk will also stop for a short talk by a member of the club at two of the old religious places in the town. The second walk is on September 15 (registration from 10am) and will visit five of the historic inns of Woodbridge, covering Tudor to Victorian times. At each inn, a member of staff will give a short talk about its history. One of the pubs visited, Ye Olde Bell and Steelyard, is reckoned to be the 13th oldest pub in England. The Kings Head, although a common pub name, for Woodbridge celebrates Suffolk’s saintly king – St Edmund. The final inn visited will be The Angel; there are records that sate that ale was served on these grounds in the 12th century, and ‘angels’ were not the ladies you might expect! Once again, the club would like to thank all the inns involved for their co-operation and participation in the walk. Rotarian Simon Holloway, who is organising the walks on behalf of the club, said: “Woodbridge is full of historic buildings and when looking at what was organised in other Suffolk towns last year for HODS, I felt that we need to start something as part of HODS to show the town off.”
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OUT & ABOUT MORNING MARKET & PLOUGHMAN’S LUNCH
SUFFOLK SINGERS AT ST MARY’S
Saturday 21 September, 10am-2pm St Mary’s Church Centre, 11 Market Hill, Woodbridge IP12 4LP Come along and select items from our stalls – books, produce, cakes, bric-à-brac and more – and then relax with a ploughman’s lunch (with cheese or ham) £3.50 and a drink All welcome – bring your friends and family! In aid of St Mary’s Church Funds
Already familiar to Woodbridge audiences, Suffolk Singers, under the superb musical direction of Claire Weston, will present a concert in the wonderful setting of Woodbridge Parish Church at 7.30pm on October 12. Tickets are £12 and can be obtained direct from Roger Robinson on 01394 279907 or online from: WeGotTickets.com Come and listen to this splendid mixed choir for an enjoyable evening as they perform a varied programme selected from their wide repertoire which ranges from early music by Byrd and Palestrina through to modern composers like Macmillan, Gjello and Whitacre, much of which is performed a cappella.
WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY September 1-30: ArtLib Exhibition – From Cloth to Clothing, textile art by Beth Taylor Thursday 5 September, 7.30pm: Poetry Night with Kate Foley & Pam Job. Kate, a local widely-published poet and president of Suffolk Poetry Society, and her friend Pam will read their own poetry with music performed by Sylvia Fairley (flute) and Val Seeley (piano). Tickets are £5, including an interval drink, and are available from the library or by phone on 01394 330855. Saturday 7 September, 10.15-11.45am: Talk by Well-being Coach & Three Principles Practitioner Mia Philips. For more information please visit: www.facebook.com/ccEHWB Every Wednesday from September 11, 2-4pm: Open Space Meeting Group. The aim of Open Space is to improve the wellbeing of those attending. It consists of two-hour weekly sessions within a library setting and is open to all. There’s no need to sign up; you can attend as often or as little as you like and feel free to come and go during sessions. Our timetables of discussions and activities are built from suggestions from groups and there is always colouring, word searches and games available, along with a hot drink and a biscuit. Saturday 14 September, 9.30am-12.30pm: Turning off The Stress Switch with Stuart Daniels Hypnotherapy. Techniques and hypnotherapy to ease stress and feel calmer. To book go to: www.stuartdaniels.co.uk/workshops Monday 16 September, 1pm: Author Martin Walker in Conversation. Author and journalist Martin Walker will be visiting us on one of his rare returns to the UK. Now living in Washington DC and in the Dordogne, France, Martin is much in demand in his role as a commentator on world affairs in the US, and as a much loved novelist, cookery writer and wine maker throughout Europe. Tickets are £10 and available from Browsers Bookshop. They include a copy of the new book The Body in the Castle Well (RRP£20). One additional ticket can be purchased at £10, without the book. Tel: 01394 388890
The singing of this award-winning choir has resounded in many prestigious venues including local churches and the cathedrals of Bury St Edmunds, Ely and Norwich, as well as in cathedrals abroad, notably Ypres and Ghent during a tour to Belgium last year when they were also privileged to sing at the Menin Gate’s Last Post Ceremony. In 2017, Suffolk Singers were proud to feature in the summer concert series at Norfolk’s Binham Priory. As ‘something completely different’ they have also performed at a concert alongside the singing group G4 and recorded for the SkyArts program on Constable with Richard E Grant as part of the series for Tate Britain. To learn more about Suffolk Singers and to access recordings from previous concerts visit: www.suffolksingers.co.uk Further dates for your diary are November 3 for an all-day workshop at Woodbridge School (more information will follow nearer the date) and a charity concert on January 18 in Woodbridge Community Centre. Picture taken by James Billings Photography of Ely
ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND Monday 14 October, 7.30pm: RSPB 70 years at Havergate Island by Steve Everett It’s 70 years since the RSPB took over ownership of Havergate Island, 267 acres of nature reserve in the River Ore, just below Orford. Join Steve for an illustrated talk about the history, wildlife and people who have shaped Suffolk’s only island over the years. The event takes place at St Michaels Church Centre, The Drift, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. Admission is £5 at the door. Light refreshments and raffle. The venue is fully accessible with free adjacent parking. Profit from the evening will go to the Roger David Burrows Music Fund which was set up in 2012 in memory of Roger David Burrows (1980-2012) by his family. With this music fund we are offering small grants to groups or individuals which we hope will inspire all abilities, adults and children in music making. Information about The Roger David Burrows Music Fund will be available on the evening. Grant Applications Applications are welcome from individuals and from groups. Application forms should be submitted to the address below by 1 January 2020. Grants will generally be of up to £150, e.g. towards the cost of instruments, music, music related equipment and musical activities.
Tuesday 24 September, 10am-noon: Health and Wellbeing Event. Walk-in advice and guidance from voluntary and statutory partnership organisations.
Further information and grant application forms can be obtained from the website or from The Roger David Burrows Music Fund, c/o The Burrows family, 17 Squires Lane, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich IP5 3UG.
www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/libraries/woodbridge-library
www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk / 01473 625196
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OUT & ABOUT RISQUÉ SONGS AT DANCE FOLKUS After a short summer break to play at folk festivals, Dance Folkus resume their regular first Friday English barn dances in Woodbridge Community Hall on September 6. If you haven’t been before, why not start attending this month? It’s fun, it’s active and it’s energetic. You actually get to hold hands with your partner! There’s a live band. Someone (a caller) runs through what you have to do for each dance and keeps reminding you what to do while you dance. Dance Folkus was originally set up to encourage young people to enjoy social dance. This accounts for the low cost of entry offered to students and younger family members. At least 70 people usually attend with all ages represented. Our caller for September will be Norfolk based Jill Parson. She has called for our dances before and has a range of fun and occasionally tricky dances. Come and dance, or play along with our resident Come All Ye Band led by Harbour Lights. Our ‘taster’ song spot will be Maggie Moore and Stan Bloor. (pictured). They hail from Mid Suffolk and have been performing together for many years, playing and singing a wide variety of songs including traditional, music hall and risqué comedy songs. However, their main loves are the songs, tunes and poetry of Lancashire, particularly those concerning the industrial revolution and the weaving and spinning industries. Maggie plays melodeon, piano accordion and hammered dulcimer, while Stan plays guitar banjo and ukulele. New dancers wanting to attend can book a discounted ticket by emailing Dancefolkus@aol.com (no payment in advance) or you can simply come along on the night (£7). Entry for students or children is £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 starting at 7.30pm.
Saturday 14 September, 9am-12.30pm Woodbridge Community Hall, Station Road Please come early for our lovely, cottage garden flowers as they’re in limited quantity and often sell out! We have one market only in September so this will be your only opportunity to snap up our delicious local fruit, vegetables, meat, cakes, bread, quiches, jam, chutney and more!
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE PROBUS DEBEN ROTARY AND DICTIONARIES FOR LIFE
At our August meeting, we enjoyed a superb talk from Peter Wain on the enigma that is Goseford, the ford where there are lots of geese. But where was it? Well, that’s the fascination. The fact that when the King required ships for his navy, Goseford produced more than Winchelsea, the principle port in the country, just shows what a huge organisation it was. One day all will be revealed. Our speaker on September 2 will be Fred Empson on the subject of medals, something which fascinates all of us. Thank you to Woodbridge Golf Club for the lovely fish and chips lunch. I wonder what we can look forward to next month. Have a look at our website and see what we do. There’s an open invitation to join us at any time. www.wodbridgeprobus.org.uk
Following a custom which has developed over the last few years, the Rotary Club of Woodbridge Deben was pleased to present Dictionaries for Life to Year 6 pupils at local primary schools. This year we presented dictionaries at Gorseland, Bawdsey, Melton and Heath Primary Schools. During the presentation the pupils were told how Rotary’s polio eradication scheme is helping to eliminate polio in affected areas around the world.
WOODBRIDGE CAMERA CLUB At July’s meeting, Peter Norris got up close to judge the 63 entries for our latest competition. The submitted prints were all of an exceptionally high standard, but Sue Garrod did it again with Brian’s Looking for Florence, leaving Graham Wood as runner-up with Hitting the Note. With 32 attending to witness the battle, a great night was enjoyed by all.
The photo shows the presentation at Gorseland School. If you would like more information about this, or any of the club’s activities, please contact Rotarian Martin Kenyon on 01394 386933.
Woodbridge
Bin it? No way!
This month’s cover image, Woman’s Best Friend by Kirsteen Crossan, won first place in the digital images section of Woodbridge Camera Club’s exhibition in August. Bin it? No way!
Woodbridge
ORWELL DECORATIVE Examples of repairs: & FINE ARTS SOCIETY
What do you do with
What do you do with
A CD player that no longer
A CD player that no longer
Examples of repairs:
opens? -A toaster
that no longer works A toaster that no longer -Hem that’s come down works? -A lamp with a broken switch A sweater with moth
toaster that no Our -A talks cover a broad spectrum of art and are delivered within longer works A toaster that no longer a relaxed and come welcoming environment. Meetings usually begin at -Hem that’s down works? -A lamp withrefreshments a broken 2.15pm, with available from 1.30-2pm. However, on Aswitch sweater with moth withRepair tea, coffee and September 4 we celebrate our 20th anniversaryRepair Café is The Cafe holes? runAnne by volunteers cake from 1.30pm, our AGM at 2pm, and a talkisby Haworth, a repairing broken items who assistEmperors in the lecturer at the V&A, entitled Porcelain for the together, Chinese at professional repairing advice, encounters and 2.30pm. of broken items inspiration opens?
Repair Café is The Repair Cafe
holes?
is run by volunteers who assist in the repairing advice, encounters and of broken items inspiration for a voluntary Costs? contribution. repairing broken items together, professional
A voluntary contribution
Scheduled talks up to the Christmas break
for a voluntary
Costs? contribution.
A voluntary contribution
October 2: Archaeological Adventures in Albania with Louise Schofield Supported by: Come too! Runs within The Hub community cafe
The Hub
community December 4: Pantomime: A Very Britishcafe Treat with Giles Ramsay Do join us!
Do join us!
First Monday of every month (from Sept 2019) 10 am-12 Midday Location Date St Johns Church Woodbridge, IP12 1HS
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November 6: The Hitler Emigrés; their impact on British Artistic and Come too! Runs within Cultural Life with Daniel Snowman
We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. With the exception of September 4, ofand every (from meetings First begin Monday at 2.15pm lastmonth about an hour,Sept with2019) refreshments am-12 Midday available from 1.30pm. 10 Guests and non-members are welcome Locationwe St Johns Church Woodbridge, IP12 1HSlectures will Date provided have available space. Exceptionally popular Address ... to ... hrs have a visitor limit of 20 so please contact Wendy From Robbins in advance Place Extra information Hosted by St Johns Church and Transition Woodbridge to check if there is available space: 01394 823807 Extra information
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• FURNITURE • ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES •Appliances TOYS • BICYCLES ETCETERA - Furniture -news Electric & Domestic - Toys• etc ForCLOTHES theClothes latest events and please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE SOCIETY As the saga of the re-development of the council offices on Melton Hill drags on, Woodbridge Society has continued to voice its opposition to the plans. In line with the society’s objective of promoting the conservation, protection and improvement of Woodbridge and its environs, the society’s planning group has energetically pointed out how the plans presented to the council bore little relationship to those presented for public consultation, and how unsatisfactorily the planning and commercial processes have been conducted. Writing in the society’s latest newsletter, the chairman, Alan Vaughan, argues that, “The site should be remarketed on terms much closer to the consensus plan” – a plan that received widespread support in the town. Another aspect of the society’s activities has taken place during the summer. Visits to places of interest included a guided tour of Columbine Hall (pictued) by its present owners, a walking tour of Framlingham and a visit to Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury to view the Masters of the Golden Age exhibition, as well as the house, garden and permanent collection. Looking ahead, the society’s programme of talks begins on October 2 with a talk by Helen Fairweather, the chief executive of Headway. Her talk is entitled Brainy Dogs and is about a project in association with Hollesley Bay to train rescue dogs to become companions to people with brain injury. This is followed on November 6 with a talk by Joanna Carrick, artistic director of Red Rose Chain theatre company. Meetings are held in the hall of the Abbey School (entrance off Cumberland Street) at 7.30pm. Visitors are very welcome.
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. After our summer break we recommence on September 17 when Roger Hermiston will give a talk entitled Churchill – Myth and Reality in the Second World. Roger, a writer of contemporary history books, will examine how Churchill, arguably this country’s greatest ever leader, led the country to one of its greatest triumphs, and, in doing so, distinguish the truth from the popular fiction surrounding him. We continue the Second World War theme on October 15 with a talk by Russell Bowes entitled Digging for Victory, when beautiful flower gardens were transformed into vegetable patches. We meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre IP5 1JF at 7.15pm. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome; the entrance fee is £3. National Trust members and 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: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk
RAF BAWDSEY I was interested to read the article by Geoff Moss headed RAF Bawdsey Reunion in the August issue, but I hope you will not mind, and I’m sure Geoff will not, if I point out a couple of errors in Geoff’s splendid article. The opening line stated that RAF Bawdsey closed in 1986, when the correct date should be 1991. Also the Bawdsey Reunion Association formed many years earlier: I know it existed in 1979 with its annual reunions, and had been formed earlier by personnel who served on the station in 1952. I assumed command of RAF Bawdsey in January 1985 and had the unenviable task of closing the station down. The official closing ceremony, a very moving occasion, took place on Bawdsey Quay at the end of March 1991. Robert Watson Watt and his team of boffins moved into Bawdsey Manor from Orfordness in 1936 to develop the successful initial research into a brand new system of detecting aircraft approaching UK shores. Initially called RDF it soon became RADAR. Rapid progress and success meant that in 1937 Bawdsey Manor became RAF Bawdsey, the world’s first operational radar station. Hence its motto: First in the Field.
U3A OPEN DAY East Suffolk U3A starts its new season with an open day on Friday 6 September, 10.30am to 12.30pm at Kesgrave Community Centre. If you’re interested in finding out what U3A has to offer, then come along with an open mind. 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 join and to contribute to. As usual, U3A has also lined up a variety of talks on a wide range of topics in the coming year. Monday 16 September, 10.30am-12.30pm, Woodbridge Football Club Hatches, Matches and Beyond: Curious Tales from the Suffolk Parish Registers by Sarah Doig
Thus, having to close this unique RAF station in its wonderful setting on the Deben estuary, and with a remarkable history spanning over 50 years, was indeed a memorable and most sad occasion.
Monday 30 September, 10.30am-12.30pm, Kesgrave Community Centre Village Schools: The History of Village Schools and Their Valuable Role in Educating Children by Sheila Wright
Perhaps I may be allowed to take this opportunity to wave the flag for the award winning Bawdsey Radar Museum, as mentioned by Geoff. Visitors can follow the work of the boffins in developing radar, which played such an important part in the RAF’s victory in the Battle of Britain in 1940, and which today influences many aspects of our daily lives. Located in Watson Watt’s old Transmitter Block on Bawdsey Manor’s estate, this excellent museum is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from 11am-4pm. Admission – adults £7, children 5-18 £1, under-fives free, concessions £6.50. The museum is an inspiration for children as well as adults – do go and have a look.
Thursday 3 October, 10.30am-12.30pm, Salvation Army Hall, Felixstowe Antiques Roadshows: Insights of a Provincial Auctioneer by Steve Lester
Squadron Leader Derek Rothery President RAF Bawdsey Reunion Association
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Thursday 10 October, 2-4pm, Market Hall, 29 High Street, Saxmundham A History of Art through Portraits: A Short History of Portraiture from the Middle Ages to the Present Day by Tania Harrington U3A promises a warm welcome to existing and potential members. Membership details are available online or from the membership secretary on 0300 123 3913. Occasionally U3A may have to make last minute changes so please see the website for up to date information www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk
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BAWDSEY RADAR museum April, May, June & October
Thursdays, Sundays, BH Mondays
July, August & September
Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays, BH Monday
open 11 am - 4 pm last admission 3.30pm Adults Children 5-18 Under 5 Concessions
£7 £1 Free £6.50
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charity no:1125600
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OUT & ABOUT
SCOUTS JET OFF FOR ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME Unit 18 Iceni and Unit 19 Teagulls from Suffolk left on July 20 to fly off to the World Scout Jamboree in North America. The Scouts from Suffolk joined 5,000 others from across the UK, and 40,000 more from nearly every country in the world for two weeks of activities and skills development, while – best of all – making new friends at one of the most truly international events on the planet. The UK Scouts flew to New York for 24 hours in the Big Apple. The city was taken over by the Scouts getting to know each other, seeing the sights and learning to navigate the big city, before they travelled to the Jamboree site in wild and wonderful West Virginia. The World Scout Jamboree includes opportunities for Scouts to learn new skills with other young people from across the globe. They will experience high adventure in a community of new residents from nearly every country in the world. Jo Cracknell, Unit 18 Leader, said: “I can’t believe we are actually here about to jump on the plane, the airport is full of Scouts. I have been counting down the days until we leave and finished packing two weeks ago. The people I am going with have become my closest friends and I can’t wait to make friends with Scouts from all over the world! We have skills to share, food to taste, it’s going to be awesome.” As well as being a fantastic opportunity for young people, the event is an amazing chance for adult volunteers such as myself to take part in activities and learn new skills they can use in other aspects of their lives. Groups from Deben District included 1st Kesgrave, Raedwald Explorer Unit, 5th Woodbridge and 1st Rendlesham. Chief Scout Bear Grylls said: “Scouts from Suffolk are travelling 3,800 miles to wild and wonderful West Virginia, USA for the 24th World Scout Jamboree. These are some of our brightest and best and every one of them will be an ambassador for the Scouts, the UK’s largest mixed movement, helping prepare girls and boys with skills for life. “World Scout Jamborees only happen every four years and tens of thousands of Scouts attend each one. They are incredible festivals of peace, friendship and adventure. Young people will make friends for life with people from over 150 countries, experience different food, language and culture while learning new skills. It will be the journey of a lifetime. The 2019 Jamboree, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico, is set to be one of the biggest and most exciting yet. The theme is Unlock A New World – focusing especially on how we can create a sustainable world together.” Mark Pearson
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE ART CLUB
DEBEN FLOWER CLUB
The club exhibition continues every weekend and bank holiday through the summer. There are always new pieces to see as club members change pieces every month.
Our new season begins on Tuesday 10 September with a demonstration by Adele Kent entitled Top Hat and Tales.
In exciting news, we plan to have a new photography section! The first meeting to plan the programme is at 3pm on September 12. Photography used to be part of the club, so we welcome its return. More information can be found at: www.woodbridgeartclub.org.uk
MOTH TRAPS AT FEN MEADOW There will be a chance to learn more about moths when Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Woodbridge Wildlife Group open a moth trap in Fen Meadow, Woodbridge at 8am on the morning of Saturday 7 September. “This event has been organised in partnership with the Friends of Fen Meadow and we will be setting up the trap the previous evening,” said Phil Smith, chairman of the Woodbridge Wildlife Group. “We will have a local expert joining us to help us identify the moths trapped, and I think that this will be a very interesting early morning event. Visitors will find us at the top end of the park near the gate to the cemetery.” Booking is not required and all are welcome. The event is free but donations to Suffolk Wildlife Trust are welcomed. Visitors coming by car are advised to park in Portland Crescent and walk along the cemetery fence to the Fen Meadow gate.
We meet at 7.30pm on the second Tuesday of each month in Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP10 0PU. Visitors are welcome for just £5; should you wish to become a member the annual subscription is £35 which can be paid in two installments if you wish. You will always be assured of a warm welcome and time to chat and make new friends over a cup of coffee or tea after the demonstration. Quiz Night Deben Flower Club is holding another of our very popular quiz nights on Saturday 12 October in Kirton Church Hall, 7 for 7.30pm. Once again this will be a light-hearted evening and will include a ploughman’s supper. Why not join in the fun and bring along a team of six? If you don’t have six people for your team you may be asked to share a table with other club members. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are £8 each including supper. Please bring your own drinks and glasses. For further information please contact: 01394 411422 / wa@sandlings.co.uk
WOODBRIDGE FLOWER CLUB
Contact: 01394 387433 / swtwoodbridge@outlook.com EVENTS AT FOXBURROW FARM Wednesdays from 4 September, 10.30am-noon Weekly Wild Tots – Forest School activities and wild play for ages one to four. Tuesday 17 September, 10am-2pm Go Wild in the Week – activities for home educated children aged 6-11. Saturday 21 September, 10am-noon Young Wardens – practical conservation and naturalist skills ages 11-16. Saturday 21 September, 2-4pm Family Forest School – wild art, den building and fire lighting. Sunday 4 October, noon-4pm Family Apple Day – apple ID, juicing and tasting, walks, games, crafts, donkey rides, music, dance and refreshments. No need to book. Booking: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/events / 01473 890089 Foxburrow Farm, near Woodbridge IP12 1NA
August gave us a super trip to Hyde Hall for the flower show and a visit to Helmingham Hall to see the wonderful gardens where we also enjoyed a cream tea as part of the NAFAS 60th anniversary celebrations. Our next meeting, on September 4 at 2pm, is at Martlesham Village Hall and will be a workshop on hand tied bouquets.
AUTUMN TERM AT BRIGHT STARS MARTLESHAM IN BLOOM Monday 4 November, 7.30pm: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle – Not a Waste of Time! by Sharon Lockhart
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.
Sharon is the Information and Education Manager from FCC Environment who operate the Household Waste Recycling Centres in Suffolk. FCC is a national company involved with many aspects of waste recycling.
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 event takes place at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. There will be light refreshments and a raffle. Admission is £4 at the door. The venue is fully accessible with free adjacent parking.
The autumn term dates are September 9 and 23, October 14 and 28, November 11 and 25 and December 9. Just turn up, there’s no need to let us know in advance.
For further information please contact J Maureen Burrows: martleshaminbloom@gmail.com / 01473 625196
For further information please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196
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on the grapevine SUFFOLK LIBRARIES LAUNCH THE FIRST EVER CELEBRATION OF THE COUNTY’S LIBRARY SERVICE Suffolk Libraries is a charity which was launched to run Suffolk’s library service in August 2012. Seven years on and all 44 libraries continue to be focal points for the local community. Highlighting this, over the past four years the number and range of events and activities in libraries has increased with the number of people attending them rising by 29 per cent. Suffolk Libraries also runs a mobile library service, two pop-up library services and the county’s prison libraries. Bruce added: “Our success story is down to the hard work of our staff and people in the community who continue to support us and champion our libraries. Suffolk Libraries Day will raise awareness that we are a charity and need to raise more income as we’re likely to face many challenges in the future. We’ve had some great support for the Book Journey already and there’ll be lots of opportunities for local people to get involved in Suffolk Libraries Day events so if you have any ideas or want to support us please get in touch.” Pamela Holmes, author of the Huntingfield Paintress, added: Suffolk Libraries has officially launched a day of celebration to generate support for the county’s library service. The first ever Suffolk Libraries Day will take place on Saturday 12 October, at the end of National Libraries Week. Suffolk Libraries Day will see special events take place at all 44 libraries with the aim of showcasing everything libraries have to offer the community. The day will also raise funds to support the county’s library service. During the week leading up to Suffolk Libraries Day a Book Journey Challenge will also take place with Suffolk businesses coming together to get the book from Bungay to Haverhill, visiting all the county’s libraries in between. The book will cover a total distance of 323.9 miles with companies sponsoring each leg and transporting the book in a range of quirky and inventive ways including an American muscle car, a tractor, tandem and vintage coach. Many major Suffolk companies have signed up so far including Adnams, Ipswich Buses, Hughes, Care UK, EO, East of England Co-Op, Exterion Media, Scarlett and Mustard, Ryan’s insurance and Realise Futures. The chosen book for the Book Journey is The Huntingfield Paintress a historical fiction novel by Pamela Holmes which is set in Suffolk. Bruce Leeke, CEO of Suffolk Libraries, said: “Suffolk Libraries Day will be a fantastic opportunity to highlight the huge impact our libraries have on making Suffolk such a great place to live. All our libraries are thriving community hubs that are there for everyone. The exciting diversity of our offer continues to drive people to our sites, especially for events and activities.”
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“I was thrilled that my book was chosen to be part of the Book Journey. I went to school in Suffolk and have given talks in several of the lovely local libraries in the county so I’m very proud to support this campaign to highlight the value of libraries to their communities.” Ashley Shorey-Mills, General Manager of Hughes Smart, said: “Hughes are supporting the Suffolk Libraries Day book journey, because we feel as a Suffolk company who started out in Lowestoft nearly 100 years ago, we need to support our local services. The work Suffolk Libraries do in engaging with their local communities and offering services that go way beyond just books is fantastic, and so when we heard about this event, we knew we wanted to be involved as much as we could. Suffolk is an incredible place, and it’s going to amazing to see the support from the people of Suffolk as this book travels across the county.” Andy Wood, CEO of Adnams PLC, added: “The writer Sidney Sheldon once wrote that ‘Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve, and contribute to improving our quality of life.’ We totally agree and this is why we are proud to support Suffolk Libraries Day and the other great initiatives that support learning through our Adnams Community Trust.” On Suffolk Libraries Day itself there will be a wide range of activities taking place in libraries with the mobile library service joining in too. Activities across the county confirmed so far include a sponsored readathon at a local school, a children’s disco, a sponsored walk/bike ride between the three libraries in Saxmundham, Leiston and Aldeburgh, a photography competition, LEGO building session and a battle of the bands event.
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SPORT DEBEN YACHT CLUB There were a record number of entries for Regatta Week (August 2-6) this year with 68 boats and 88 people taking part. Competitors with past links to the club came from as far away as Plymouth, Oxford and Chichester to join in the racing and meet up with friends and relations. There was a great atmosphere among those taking part, greatly helped by the excellent food provided by the galley team, the bar and excellent organisation of the event by Commodore Graham Seabrook and Frances and Stephen Alexander. Evening activities were organised by the club cadets led by Sam Fortmann and included a highly competitive game of rounders, a visit to Lazer Tag and an evening barbecue attended by 125 people.
ST AUDRYS GOLF CLUB One of the highlights of the golfing year for St Audrys ladies is the Charlottes Bowl competition. This was founded in 1991 by Bill Claxton in memory of his wife, Charlotte. While he was alive, he hosted the annual competition between ladies from Felixtowe Ferry, Fynn Valley, Rushmere, St Audrys, Southwold, Waldringfield and Woodbridge Golf Clubs. St Audrys has continued the tradition, although the competition is now held between just six clubs, with Waldringfield having closed.
The week began with light winds and sunshine – ideal conditions for sailors and spectators alike. However, on the final two days the wind arrived and provided extremely gusty conditions which tested sailors and safety boat crews. The final day of Regatta included fun races; a ‘crews’ race’ and a ‘two (or three) up in a topper race’. With the windy conditions this created a good deal of excitement and mayhem for the youngsters aboard the toppers. However, one team were sufficiently alert to call the safety boat to come to the aid of someone in trouble on a yacht and were commended for their prompt action by the Commodore. Among the wide range of dinghies taking part in the regatta were toppers, fevas, lazers, visions and wayfarers. These were grouped into three fleets for the races: fast, slow and toppers. Overall winners were; Michael Haines in the Fast Fleet, Ben Alexander with crew Jemima Alexander in the Slow Fleet and Kim Ford in the Topper Fleet with Torquil Morrison being the winning cadet. The overall yacht race winners were Roger and Diana Haines in a Hunter Medina. The prize for most promising young helm went to Henry Rich. Future events include a coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support on Friday 27 September from 10am-noon, open to all who wish to come along. Also, the club is supporting the Macmillan Cancer Support Challenge by holding a sponsored sail down river on Saturday 7 September.
MELTON BOWLS CLUB This year’s Melton Bowls Club Invitation Pairs Tournament, sponsored by The Cake Shop, Woodbridge, produced one of the closest contests for several years. The winners were Darrell Howard and Mark Baker from the host club, who finished with a great last game to go clear of the chasing pairs with 93 points. Eric Titshall and Mel Saggers took second spot with 81 points and Barry and Doreen Clamp just two points further behind in third place. The tournament, which attracted a full complement of 28 pairs, is played using Australian rules and a progressively increasing points system. This has proved so popular that the event has become a firm favourite in the tournament calendar With all of the teams having just one game remaining, the lead was held by the Howard and Clamp pairs, both on 55 points closely followed by 14 other pairs all within 14 points of the leaders. The result of the tournament hinged on whether the leaders would slip up in their final games. Saggers and Titshal, who were back in eleventh place before their last game, had a superb win over Ken Wright, picking up 37 points to set the field a target of 81 points. Graham Martin and Barry Clamp both had good wins against Bill Moss and Duncan Frost respectively, but not quite good enough to catch Saggers. Both finished equal on 79 points with Clamp taking third place overall on count back. Howard and Baker had an even better win over Keith Thornley, winning six of the seven ends and carding a total of 38 points to put them well ahead at the finish. After the games were completed, the tournament organiser, Peter Moyes presented prizes to the first, second and third placed pairs.
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This year, Woodbridge Golf Club Ladies had a stunning victory with Jill Scott, Jan Fawdry, Di Start and Ann Rayner scoring 78 points, eight points clear of Rushmere in second place.
WOODBRIDGE CRUISING CLUB By the time you read this, a sailing season which only just seems to have started will be nearing its conclusion. The last cruise to the ‘3 Waters’ starts on September 14 and culminates with the end of season dinner at Royal Harwich for which organisers Andy and Sue Larwood are expecting a record turnout. The cruise itself will take in the Rivers Orwell and Stour, as well as Hamford Water. They are all picturesque, but it’s a shame that despite being shown to be common land there is still no access onto the quay at Mistley, a town well worth a visit. It hasn’t been a bad year! There have been plenty of favourable winds and the cruises have mostly taken place as planned. Reports in the club magazine boast of yachts reaching speeds of seven, eight, nine and even 10 Knots, and skippers are on their honour that engines were not involved. But this is chickenfeed compared with the 40 Knots (getting on for 50 mph) claimed for the new boat built for Alex Thompson to sail in the next Vendee Globe (roughly French for ‘round the world’). Mind you, it cost in excess of £5m and stands over a metre out of the water on a giant foil. Would you want to be on that in the 30ft waves of the southern ocean? If you can get your thrills at six knots why would you go to all that expense for a few extra? But every year sees a few mishaps. In deference to the snowflake generation, the Boob Cup is no longer awarded, but it would be unfair to leave out the skipper who reversed at such speed that his rudder jammed, making steering impossible. He had to be lifted out of the water for matters to be corrected. Or he who thought that the whistling kettle was boiling only to find that this didn’t mean tea was ready but that the engine was overheating. There were one or two groundings and there was some confusion between left and starboard, but as the saying goes ‘worse things happen at sea’ and no great harm ensued. There’s still some mileage (or should it be ‘knottage’) left in the cruise programme, but plans are being made for the winter programme. Further information about the club and how to join visit: www.woodbridgecruisingclub.org John Warwick
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