October 2019

www.stradbrokemonthly.co.uk

October 2019

No.456

Suffolk Libraries Day on Saturday 12th October @ Stradbroke Library

Come and celebrate Suffolk Libraries Day with us on Saturday October 12th at the Court House! (see inside front cover for details).

Our Triptych for the Court House Café wall will be on display to see but you can still sign up and sponsor us on the day by having your name written into the artwork (if you haven’t already), that celebrates the success of the Library, Post Office and Court House Café, in the Court House building and will hang on the wall for posterity.

You can become part of the history of Stradbroke!

The Court House Café will be open from 9.15am serving refreshments. There will also be craft stalls, Christmas cards for sale and a raffle with some wonderful prizes.

I would like to say my special thanks to some amazing people: Hannah Weeks, Christine Cooper, Kay Edwards, Denise Clarke, Trugy Browning for coming on board with this project for Suffolk Libraries Day. I sometimes have great ideas but it takes a team of truly dedicated, inspirational people to bring those ideas to reality.

The Book Journey Challenge In the lead-up to Suffolk Libraries Day (7-12th October), Suffolk Libraries have challenged themselves to send a book by a local author to all 44 of our libraries, from Bungay to Haverhill. The book will cover a total distance of 323.9 miles! Stradbroke Library’s part of the journey will be on Thursday 10th October. It will arrive at Stradbroke by Tandem at 11 o’clock and be picked up by Skinner’s Pet Foods van to take it to Eye Library. Please come and give Sue and Tony Hutt a cheer when they arrive on their tandem to deliver the book from Debenham Library and then cheer it off, when Skinner’s Pet Food van takes it on its journey to Eye. The café will be open, so you can have a coffee if you want too.

Maureen John, Library Manager

Volunteers & sponsors needed for Festive Fun Event

Free Festive Fun Event 8th December from 3pm at All Saints Church, Stradbroke.

Would anyone like to volunteer at the event either by helping with the children's activities or donating some Xmas food (sausage rolls, mince pies or fairy cakes) Or red wine (to make some mulled wine). Please message either Sue Childs (email: iandschilds@btinternet.com ) or Karen Ruth (email: budtogether@gmail.com) Would any local businesses like to sponsor the event or donate money to it? We will advertise any sponsors at the event.

Sue Childs

Anyone For Chess?

My name is Josh Francis, a local resident attending High School.

As part of my community service work for the silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award I would like to begin and run a Chess Club in the village. I would be happy to teach those new to the game, coach novices and take on the challenge of playing experienced players. Depending on the level of interest a Chess League could be formed along with tournaments from time-to time.

The Court House have kindly given permission to use their premises. The first meeting is planned for Thursday, 3rd October at 7:30pm. If you are interested, would like to know more, or assist me in starting or running the club please contact me: 01379 388 744 or bruceinphp@yahoo.com Josh Francis

Sponsored Page

Local Churches

Stradbroke Baptist Church

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Stradbroke Baptist Church, Laxfield Road, Stradbroke, Suffolk Stradbroke Baptist Church Laxfield Road, Stradbroke You would be most welcome to join us this October for our regular activities: Worship Sundays 10:15-11:15 Prayer Meetings Thursdays 13:30 Friendship Lunches Wednesdays 12:30 on the 9th & 23rd – All Welcome!

Thank you on behalf of TWAM (Tools with a Mission) for your kind and generous donations. A full update of tools and support raised will appear in the November issue.

A couple of thoughts for autumn…

Notice how the trees do not cling to their leaves.

Autumn is about releasing the old to make way for the new.

Autumn leaves Jesus doesn’t…!

Mercy, peace and love to you all, Bruce Francis 01379 388744 or 07484 219 265 or bruceatsbc@outlook.com

Local Organisations Stradbroke Good Neighbours

Telephone: 07749445531 Do you need our help? For example, a lift to the surgery, or to a hospital for an appointment?

Can we pick up a prescription for you? Change a light bulb?

Check your smoke alarm?

Then contact Good Neighbours. We only charge for mileage.

Our friendly volunteers will be happy to help.

We would appreciate at least 24 hours notice please.

Carol Darling

Bordahoppa

Need help with transport? Borderhoppa buses are available to people of all ages who are unable to use ordinary bus services either because of mobility difficulties or because there isn’t a bus service for them to use.

Our door-to-door dial a ride service can take you shopping, to medical appointments at GP surgeries, dentists etc. or to visit a friend or relative or attend a local club.

Our regular members outings are very popular. We have trips to the seaside, garden centres, shopping trips, boat trips and pub lunches.

If you would like to find out more about the great service we provide please call us on 01379 854800 or visit our website www.borderhoppa.org

Stradbroke Community Land Trust

Things are moving. The Trust is applying for grant funding and we're looking at our options for the future for trust homes in the village. To help understand what a Community Land Trust does, please take a look at our website featuring a really great video from the National Community Land Trust Network - http://www.stradbrokeclt.org.uk SCLT

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Local Churches

All Saints, Stradbroke

Revd Canon Susan Loxton 01379 388493. Church wardens, Peter Chetwynd 384069; Karen Ruth 388762 If you have any questions about Baptisms, Weddings or Funerals, or any questions about the Faith, please contact Revd Susan.

Services: 6th Oct 10.15 Village service at the Baptist Church 13th Oct 8 am HC said service 20th Oct 11 am HC followed by coffee and tea.

27th Oct No service in All Saints 27th Oct 10 am family@church in Fressingfield 3rd Nov 11 am Family service followed by coffee and tea.

Invitation to take a PEW: Feeling concerned about everything that’s going on? Want to share good news for a change? Come along to Stradbroke Church at 7pm on the third Tuesday of every month to Pray in Earnest for the World (PEW) and share more positive news. Tuesday 15th October; Tuesday 19th November Weekly prayer time Mondays, 10 am at The Rectory. All are welcome to join us, to listen to others prayers of praise, thanksgiving, asking help or to offer your own for the village, friends and families.

Historic Churches Trust Stride Thanks from Jennifer and Karen to everyone who sponsored our footpath walk in support of HCT and All Saints church. We managed without injury! Karen on her first time walked 20 miles, Jennifer completed the full 26 again; Stradbroke – Fressingfield – Weybread – Mendham – Withersdale Street – Metfield, and back!

All Saints Church Fundraising Committee

We have had a quiet September but have a Jumble Sale with stalls on 5th October 10-11.30 in the Community Centre. £1 entry including coffee and biscuits. We are having a Xmas Hamper again and any items to be given to Julie Ward or M Ellis. This will be drawn on November 23rd at our Coffee & Craft event. October 11th is the church Cash Bingo in the Community Centre. All welcome at 7.30pm. On October 18th we have a Cheese & Wine Supper in the Community Centre. £8 a ticket. 7.30pm. More details of other events next time. We are now arranging events for 2020 so any ideas would be helpful. Once again, thanks for your support.

Mary Ellis

From the Rectory…

Dear friends and neighbours As I was preparing services for harvest, I came across these words from As a man thinketh by James Allen: ‘every thought-seed sown or allowed to fall into the mind, and take root there, produces its own blossoming sooner or later into act, and bearing its own fruit of opportunity and circumstance. Good thoughts bear good fruit and bad thoughts bad fruit.’ St Paul in his letter to the Galatians said they should not let their lives be ruled by the flesh but by the spirit of God because ‘the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.’

It is all too easy to allow ourselves to become negative or bitter when we have been hurt, lost a loved one, experience illness, a disability or disappointment. But bitterness, unforgiveness and negativity breed or bear the fruit of pain and suffering. That is why the Christian faith is strong on forgiveness, forgiving others and ourselves not just for our actions done or left undone, words spoken carelessly or without love, but also our thoughts towards others and even ourselves. God loves to forgive us and wipe the slate clean so we can pick ourselves up and make a new start, trying to live better.

God bless, Susan

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Parish Pump

STRADBROKE PARISH COUNCIL Next full Council meeting will be on 14th October 2019 at 7.30pm, PC Clinic Tuesday, 22nd October 2019 (2.15pm); both at the Court House Meeting Of Stradbroke Parish Council – 9th September 2019 Planning Applications supported by the Parish Council: DC/19/03847 – Variation of condition 2 to permission DC/18/02634 to allow for changes to the approved plans. 15a Woodfields, IP21 5JQ Parish Council updates: • Councillors congratulated the Clerk on the recent completion of the CiLCA qualification.

• Councillors noted the outcome and recommended resolution of a Councillor code of conduct complaint recently reviewed by Mid Suffolk.

• The Planning Committee will be responding to the consultation on Mid Suffolk’s proposed Joint Local Plan and will approve the wording of a joint statement to be submitted by a number of neighbouring councils.

• The maintenance working group have repainted the railings and gates at the cemetery, and will look at how to improve the noticeboard at the junction with Wilby Road.

• The footpath warden, Dennis Merritt, would like to hear from anyone who has any information about the footpath network in Stradbroke.

• A maintenance company has been identified for the play parks.

• A road safety audit of the Hoxne Road is underway.

• Mirrors on the road. Advice from Suffolk County Council was noted: We will not agree to requests for mirrors to be placed on roads we maintain. They can increase risk and reduce safety because they: • reflect light and interfere with a driver's vision • reduce the ability to judge an oncoming vehicle's speed • create an unreasonable dependence on the mirror • distort or restrict the driver's view if dirty • are an easy target for vandals • could cause damage to users of the road if the glass is broken If you want to put a mirror on private land, the landowner must agree and planning permission may be necessary.

• 101 Telephone Number: Advice from the Police was noted: “the alternative method of crime reporting which can be done on-line from the Suffolk Constabulary website using this link https://www.suffolk.police.uk/contact-us/report-something/report-crime. This is for the same crime types as the 101 number, i.e. Non-urgent, previously occurred crimes / incidents. Anything being observed in real-time where somebody’s’ welfare or property is at risk should always be notified to police using the 999 telephone number. If you’re in doubt whether to use 999, do so anyway & let the call taker determine the urgency. Should somebody wish to update police about an existing or on-going investigation, this too can be reported on-line” • Litter Picking: Advice from Mid Suffolk was noted: “Litter picking of areas beside roads should be carried out with extreme caution, due to the risk of being struck by vehicles. Litter picking should be restricted to only where there are wide verges or pavements, suitable for pedestrians, and should be carried out facing oncoming traffic. It is essential that volunteers are visible to road users, for that reason, hi-visibility waistcoats must be worn and litter picks should only take place in clear daylight. Volunteers should not attempt to clear litter from the carriageway.”

The recordings of Parish Council meetings are available at: https://www.stradbrokepc.org/podcast Dates for Committee meetings will be added to the home page of the Parish Council website when agreed.

Odile Wladon (Clerk) Mobile: 07555 066147 email: stradbrokepc@outlook.com www.stradbrokepc.org Mill Hill House, Church Lane, Wickham Skeith, Suffolk IP23 8NA

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Dirty Oven??

Friendly & Helpful Service From Adie

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Here’s my advert!

· ·

Want to advertise in The Stradbroke Monthly?

Here’s the low down...

· · · · ·

How long can I have my advert in the Monthly?

·

Advertisements are taken for a full year 01 April to 31 March.

How much will it cost?

Charges are dependent on the location of the advertiser as follows: Stradbroke based: Quarter page £52 pa Eighth page £37pa Non Stradbroke based: Eighth page £47pa Sponsored Inside Front Cover Page £25 per edition Flyers and Inserts are not accepted.

What if I put my advert in mid year?

Payment for adverts listed part way through the year is on a pro rata basis. Invoices are, thereafter, sent annually for payment in advance. If the space is no longer required please inform the Monthly as soon as possible!

-

Rachel Lead

KFRP (Adv), LCSP (Phys), Cert Ed

Remedial Massage, Reflexology Touch for Health – Kinesiology rachelpbck@gmail.com www.ukkinesiology.com 01379 388031 07733 105752

Please send your advert to editors@stradbrokemonthly.co.uk

Email: marty@martynorris.co.uk

W.I.

Organisations

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September 2019 Meeting Of Stradbroke W.I. Gill welcomed us all plus our lone male visitor, brave fellow, to the meeting and we started the proceedings with our usual rallying chorus of Jerusalem. Our hostesses Pat and Roz were thanked in advance and hope, we love our refreshments, the birthday posies were presented, and some general business dealt with. Gill also thanked all on behalf of Iris Knowles family for the great effort and attention shown for the catering of the wake after the funeral, it was all greatly appreciated and of course we were happy to help. Business done Gill introduced our speaker for the evening Bob Lloyd. Bobs title is Town Crier for the Fine City of Norwich and he made a grand entrance in full scarlet uniform and regalia, a splendid tricorn hat with the traditional ostrich feathers, a long stick and a brightly polished bell which he rang, he says softly, um, and crying Oyez Oyez Oyez. The entrance was impressive as was the introduction which he spoke in rhyme catching our attention and making us laugh with him. Introductions over Bob gave us a brief personal history of himself and his uniform designed by his own fair hands with buttons bearing the crest of Norwich City Council and explaining that the ostrich feathers signified that he was an educated person who could read and write, as ostrich feathers were traditionally used for making quills to write with. A brief history of his, dare I say, calling told us that it began with the first Spartan Runner who brought messages to the Greeks and developed down through history as the person who spoke and brought news on behalf the king to all his subjects in the days before wifi and newspapers. He would post notices on poles or trees, attend hangings and floggings and had a place at all ceremonial events in his area. Just a note to say the Criers wife usually came with him and carried and rang the bell in preparation for her husbands’ grand moment of proclamation, some could be heard muttering at this point. Bob interspersed his stories with some entertaining rhymes about his work and activities and we enjoyed hearing how he had taken redundancy from the Post Office and moved into his present work which also includes him being an M.C. and Toast Master at weddings, very smart, a driver of limousine wedding cars, school runs and not surprisingly given his penchant for red clothes, he plays Santa Claus at Notcutts each Christmas, a happy man. The talk closed with a poem of farewell and a loyal toast to the Queen. Lovely evening thanks Bob. Oh yes and our brave male visitor survived with a smile ,good lad.

Next month we have a talk on the benefits of wool so ladies come and join us on October 10th at the community centre 7.30pm. No knitting needles required.

Many thanks, Prue Rush

Life In The Legion – R.B.L. Stradbroke Branch

September Meeting. Bernard Mills paid tribute to Mrs Susan May Doy, a Branch friend, whose funeral was held at Southwold. Mrs Doy was the former Mayor of Southwold, a staunch supporter of the RBL. He also thanked Joyce Cooper, the Branch Standard Bearer, for her exemplary ceremonial duties at recent events. He introduced the speaker Mr Geoffrey Robinson, Local Historian, author and leading light of Worlingworth Local History Group. His subject ‘Buffalo Bill’s Wild West’, and his visit to East Anglia in 1903’.

Mr Robinson, set the scene. Buffalo Bill was a Legend in his own time, and an American hero and idol even up to present. He was born in 1846, and settled with his parents in Kansas Territory, where, his father was a strong supporter of the anti-slave trade, died. Young Bill found a number of occupations, such as:- a messenger for a wagon train, a soldier in the American Civil War, a civilian Scout for the US Army in the Indian Wars, a hunter of Buffalo to feed the railwaymen, and a thespian in a theatrical show. He had certainly been involved in many exploits, which became more exciting each time they were related. He married Louisa Frederica. He knew many important people, and was a friend of Wild Bill Hickok amongst others. His Legend grew, through Ned Buntine’s stories in the New York Weekly. His Wild West shows, enhanced his standing. He gathered a large cast around him of cowboys, Indians, sharpshooters, fine horse riders and back room staff. Sitting Bull, Annie Oakley, Frank Butler were all hired by his theatrical agent, Nathanial Salsbury, a clever publicist. In 1887 Cody was invited to put on a show for Queen Victoria, which was a rollicking success. He toured all over USA and Europe and in 1903 came to East Anglia. His troop set up and took down the arena and paraphernalia all in one day at each venue. Much was carried by railway.

There were hundreds of horses, actors, and followers. The arenas held an audience of up to 10,000. (A number of our local grandfathers made the journey to be astonished by the spectacle of gun battles, sharp shooting, trick riding and the like.) The two venues discussed were, Ipswich, and South Denes Great Yarmouth. An area Geoffrey knows well. An authentic film of exciting action at Ipswich was shown.

Geoffrey gave an insight into Cody. He was indeed a man of the Wild West, who had a wide variety of skills and exciting experiences. Truth and fable are mixed, but he was a great showman who gave the masses pleasure, was a fair employer and a loyal American. He founded the town Cody in Wyoming, where there is the Buffalo Bill Historical Centre. He is revered by Americans and by his many admirers across the world. He is buried on Lookout Mountain in Colorado. The Chairman thanked Geoffrey for his fascinating talk. Thanks go to Maureen John for the venue. The winter meetings will now be held at the Royal Oak at Laxfield at 1130hrs. The next is on 10th October – Speaker:- Rev Mandy Jenkins, Hospital and Forces Chaplin. For information about the RBL contact:- Bernard Mills mills.laxfield@gmail.com RGW.R G Warne MBE DL

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Organisations

Stradbroke Primary School

We are back into the swing of things after the summer holidays and life in school is as busy as ever! We would like to welcome all our new families to the school, particularly those joining us in Reception. We are so happy to have you as part of our school community and look forward to seeing you grow throughout your time with us.

Even though it feels like a long way away, we have planned our intake days for our Reception 2020 cohort. The first one of these will be held on Tuesday 8th October from 9:30 – 10:30am and anyone who is planning to come to our school or who would just like a look is more than welcome! If you would like more information then please do give us a ring on 01379 384415 or pop in to see us. We would love to give you a tour of our school and answer any questions you may have. Coming up this term we have lots to look forward to. Our Year 4 and 5 children are off for a two-night residential trip to The Horstead Centre near Norwich in October and are very excited about all the activities planned. Make sure you take a look at our website to see what we get up to! Jupiter class are heading to Framlingham Castle in October and Venus class are preparing for a trip to Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse to learn more about the Victorians.

We also have a Reading Café for parents coming up at the end of September and are looking forward to our annual Language and Culture day where the children love learning about new cultures as part of our wider curriculum.

Hannah Hunt, Head of School

Stradbroke High School 2020 Prom

We are raising money for Stradbroke High School year 11, 2020 Prom. The year 11 students work so hard for their GCSEs and we would like to celebrate with an end of school prom. We are looking for any year 11 parents and pupils who would like help with fundraising ideas and events. We are also looking for any donations (wine, chocolate, smellies, vouchers etc) to use in raffles and to make up hampers. If you have any donations or you have some ideas and would like to help with Fundraising please contact Debbie Richards d.richards346@btinternet.com or Katie Eagle katiejoyeagle@icloud.com 077604 05295 Katie Eagle

Stradbroke Court House and Library News

Well done to all those children that completed the Space Chase Reading Challenge. You did really well to read 6 books during the summer holidays.

The next ‘Friday Friends’ Café is on Friday October 4th 2019. These café sessions are dementia-friendly but open to everyone, so come along and meet people for a friendly chat.

There is usually someone on hand for anyone needing advice and support.

Hope to see you all on Suffolk Libraries Day....

Maureen John Library/Post Office Manager

Over 60s

In September we had a very interesting and enjoyable trip to the Transport Museum near Lowestoft Our October meetings are 3rd Oct, when we will be playing kurling, cards and scrabble along with our usual raffle and mini auction. And on 17th Oct we will be playing hoy.

Then on Saturday 19th October we shall be holding our annual sale and coffee morning.

With homemade cakes and produce, gifts ,drinks raffle, Christmas cakes, hamper stall, 50/50 stall for the children’s hospice , bric-a brac, toys, and more, also teas coffees, and biscuits.

Do try and come along to support us, starting at 10.30am.

Lastly on Wednesday October 23rd we have a trip to Bury St Edmunds. Leaving the community centre at 10.00am there may be a few seats available. If interested ring Carole on 388577.

Joan Grimes

Friends of All Saints Church - Clock Update

The observant amongst you will have seen the Notice of Faculty.

Jack Haward, horologist, has been instructed to do the repair; we will “lose” the clock for about three weeks.

After the repair has been completed and the clock back in place it will mean our diligent clock winders, Richard and Karen Ruth, won’t have to partially wind it everyday, as they have been, because of its broken teeth! You mechanics will understand this. Thanks to Ian Coote, the Diocesan Clock Advisor, the village donors, and to Guy McGregor, SCC, Julie Flatman, MSDC, and Suffolk Community Foundation, for their financial help and advice.

We now push on with the Heritage Lottery Fund application for the major construction work - and I’ve also learnt that the oil tank is split - any suggestions about Church Heating would be welcome - I can hear the sighs/groans!

Margaret Streeter Chairman, FOASS

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KENT SKIPS

My Care at Home - My Care at Home is a family run business covering the rural communities in Suffolk. We provide Personal Care and Companionship, Respite Care and Dementia Care in your own home. Our commitment is to provide ‘high quality care’, which we deliver through our greatest asset, our staff and the training that they receive. We only employ people who love to care. Your care package could be a one off arrangement, ad-hoc or on a regular basis. Request a Brochure or book an appointment on 01449 763086.

Find us on Facebook or visit our website www.mycare-athome.co.uk We are also recruiting NOW We need exceptional people who love to care.

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Organisations

Stradbroke Village Archive

The Catchpoles and The Ivy House.

In 1849 John Catchpole married Margaret Thurston, moved to Stradbroke and started a Wine and Spirit business.

That business would continue in their family for at least a further 77 years. John and Margaret both died during the 1890s leaving their son Stanley, to carry on. The 1911 census return was filled in by him at the age of 56, in which he declared that he had been married to his wife Alice (nee Taylor), for 19 years and that they had no children. We know through a trade journal that he was still trading in 1925 but by September 1926 he had sold his property and moved away. The next time we see Stanley was on the 1939 ‘Eve of War’ register which shows him living in Melford, Suffolk and a widower. Stanley died in 1940 at the age of 85. The records show the family ran their business from the same place on the Wilby Road, which was named through time as the Ivy Cottage, the Ivy Inn and then the Ivy House. It is still possible to find flagons bearing the Catchpole name.

Source: Stradbroke village archive, ancestry.co.uk, freebmd.org.uk, British newspaper archive.

Ann Readman, SARA

SAGA

Jobs for this month: Harvest outdoor tomatoes: pick the entire trusses of any fruit that are left and move them indoors or into a greenhouse to ripen. Pull up the plants and compost them unless they show signs of blight, in which case they should be burnt.

As the weather becomes colder, pigeons are likely to attack winter brassicas like cabbage and Brussels sprouts.

Protect plants with fleece or netting.

Pumpkins and winter squashes need to be harvested before a hard frost. Make sure the skins are firm, then cut the fruits and leave them in a bright warm place such as a greenhouse or conservatory for 10 days to “cure” before they are stored in a dry, cool but frost free place.

Parsnips keep perfectly well in the ground, and you will be glad of them when there are few other vegetables around. It’s always been said that they taste sweeter after a few hard frosts.

Keep earthing up the stems of Brussels sprouts, cabbage and other brassicas to give them support as they become increasingly top-heavy. Cut off any yellow leaves.

Ivor Hyde

Stradbroke Surgery - Flu Clinics for Over 65s

Information for patients of Fressingfield & Stradbroke Medical Centres: Seasonal Flu Clinics For 2019 The Information Below Is For Patients Aged Over 65: Flu Clinics For Over 65s Only (or if you turn 65 before 31/3/2020) (PLEASE DO NOT ATTEND THESE CLINICS IF YOU ARE UNDER 65 – WE WILL NOT HAVE THE VACCINES FOR THE UNDER 65s UNTIL LATER IN OCTOBER)

Stradbroke Medical Centre Saturday 5th October Please Attend The Clinic As Follows: 8:30am to 9am Those with a Surname that starts with – A 9am to 9:30am Those with a Surname that starts with – B 9:30am to 10am Those with a Surname that starts with – C 10am to 10:30am Those with a Surname that starts with – D, E & F 10:30am to 11:00am Those with a Surname that starts with – G & H 11:00am to 11:30am Those with a Surname that starts with – I, J, K & L 11:30am to 12noon Those with a Surname that starts with – M & N 12noon to 12:30pm Those with a Surname that starts with – O, P, Q & R 12:30pm to 1pm Those with a Surname that starts with – S & T 1pm to 1:30pm Those with a Surname that starts with – U, V, W, X, Y & Z Refreshments will be provided at the clinics. Further information about the delay with receiving the vaccine for those eligible patients aged under 65 is on our website: www.fressingfieldmedicalcentre.co.uk

Lottery Bonus Winners

38 D Penycate; 45 D Richards; 8 D Cracknel; 28 C Mayhew. £48 to Contact Club, £48 to church

M Ellis

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Antique Restoration

Ian Brown LCGI

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Council Notes From the Chair...

Reading the magazine last month we had some conflicting views expressed on how to make the village a better place to live. Two things struck me reading the articles. Firstly it is clear that people really care about the village. Nobody bothers arguing about things that they don’t care about. Secondly we should take pause to reflect on what a pleasant place Stradbroke is to live.

We are fortunate to have some amazing buildings, people are friendly in the streets and crime levels are lower than many places.

Of course this doesn’t mean problems don’t exist and it is the job of the many councils and other public bodies to deal with things in their own area. Obvious examples are that the police deal with crime and Suffolk County Council deals with the roads.

It can be really confusing sometimes to work out just who is responsible for what and this is something the Parish Council can help with. Our clerk Odile Wladon is always happy to help find the right organisation to help with an issue so please do email her at stradbrokepc@outlook.com or call 07555 0566147 and we will do our best to help.

Speaking of the clerk I would like to congratulate Odile on passing her CiLCA (Certificate in Local Council Administration). Odile received a lot of very positive feedback on the quality of her work and we are very fortunate to have her working on behalf of the council and village. Well done Odile!

The next parish council meeting is on Monday 14th October 7.30pm at the Court House and as ever members of the public are very welcome to attend.

James Hargrave, Chair of Stradbroke Parish Council

Letters to the Editor Maria, Toby, Ellie and families would like to thank everyone for their kindness and support received following the very sudden death of Rusty. Donations in excess of £2000 have been split between The Fire Fighters Charity and East Anglian Air Ambulance and memorial bench will be placed at the Fire Station.

Maria Smith Stradbroke Youth Football Club would like to say a big thank you to all those people that attended the memorial match, either to watch, play, donate or help on the evening of Friday 30th August. A grand sum of £617 was raised, a memorial trophy will be purchased and the club are in discussion with the family how to spend the remainder in Rusty's memory.

Sharon Muttock Once again, thanks to all who Rode & Walked in the Historic Churches Ride in Stradbroke on 14th September and also those who manned the church, without your help we would be lost.

M Ellis Today. 17th September at 0900hrs, I am sitting reading the paper in my lounge on Laxfield Road. So far since getting up at approx. 0700, I have counted the movements of 4 Tractors and Trailers going backwards and forwards loaded with (maize) for the Anabolic Digester at Barley Brigg Farm, Laxfield Road. (Lawsons Farm). We are getting approximately 1 - 2 every 5 minutes, all (I would estimate) going a lot faster than the 30mph speed limit!

We shall soon have the tankers removing the liquid surplus and once again tractors and trailers removing the solids.

I have lived here for 39 years, but have never had so much agricultural traffic going past at speed as we have now. I am a Farmer’s son and have grown up in the countryside, but we now have to have our front windows shut all the time to try to cut down on the traffic noise.

The traffic congestion and the speed of which these vehicles travel through the village is horrendous - never mind extremely dangerous. I don't have an answer to these issues, but I do suggest strongly that plain clothes Police covertly monitor the speed etc. of these tractors/artic units and trailers.

Many a time I have stood in the village centre and watch one of these vehicles careering through at break neck speed. Please do something about this before someone is hurt or worse killed.

I am sure if a notice requesting views on this subject, were to be put in the Parish Magazine, you would get an instant response not only from residents along Laxfield Road, but the whole Village.

Yours respectfully, Mark Peacock

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The Original Stradbroke Village Website!

Now in its 18th year the Stradbroke Village Website brings you news, views and information about Stradbroke. A place to talk to the village. Post your village group updates, local events, lost & founds and items for sale!

MARK BANCROFT PAVING SERVICES

Specialist in all types of paving and hard landscaping, driveways, patios, ornamental garden walls, water features, drainage and fencing.

Pressure washing of drives and patios.

Family run business with over 25 years experience.

Fast friendly professional service.

Fully insured and all work guaranteed.

For a friendly visit with a free quotation call Mark on: 01379 677027 or Mobile 07768636618

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Forthcoming Events

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Stradbroke cinema

On October 17th we will be showing ‘Rocketman’. An epic musical fantasy about Elton John’s breakthrough year. We watch shy piano prodigy, Reginald Dwight, transform into the international superstar. Taron Egerton gives a fine impersonation of the singer alongside some great performances by Jamie Bell, Stephen Graham and Richard Madden (lately from ‘Bodyguard’) as his devastatingly handsome lover and manager, John Reid. We are raced through the glory days of the 1970s - astronomic record sales, ridiculously high platform heels, coke and booze, fame and fortune. A thrilling extravaganza of song, dance and glamour but also showing the dark side of excess. You will have read in the September edition of the Monthly that Learn: will be holding a pilot matinee screening of a classic film here on November 13th. There will be a short discussion before the film which will be ‘Kind Hearts and Coronets’ and we hope you will be able to come along. There will be tea and biscuits and possibly cake!

Doors open at 7pm and the film starts at 7.30pm. The bar is open before the start and during the interval when ice creams will also be on sale. Entrance is £5.50 for adults, £3 for 16s and under and everyone is welcome Full details can be found on the Village website that is at www.stradbrokeonline.org.uk Roger Turkington and Jane Merritt

Stradbroke Sports and Community Centre Autumn Supper

Come and join us for a warming Autumnal Feast at the SSCC on November 9th at 7.30pm. You will have a choice of a Meat or Vegetarian Casserole served with Green Beans and Crusty Bread followed by a Seasonal Pudding with Custard. Tickets will cost £8 and are available from any Committee Member. Please let us know your choice of casserole when buying your tickets which will be limited. All proceeds will go towards purchasing a Dishwasher for our Main Kitchen.

Jane Merritt - 388382

Learn: Matthew Hopkins – Witchfinder General

A talk by Mark Mitchels - Learn: is delighted to offer another absorbing illustrated talk by Mark Mitchels – this time on the infamous East Anglian Witchfinder General. This will take place on Wednesday, October 15th at 2.00pm Stradbroke Community Centre. The cost will be £8.00 including refreshments. Mark has informed us that this will be one of his last talks so do not miss this opportunity to experience a truly engaging and thoroughly researched session. Tickets on the door but please contact me with any queries or if you would like to be added to our newsletter circulation for other Learn: events. Chair of Learn: Gillian Rennie-Dunkerley gillianrenniedunkerley@hotmail.com or 01379 384248 or 07730011951

A Sidecar Named Despair!

Common Ground Theatre Company Presents: A Sidecar Named Despair!

By Pat Whymark & Julian Harries. Touring East Anglia to 26th October 2019 07807 341364 / enquiries@commongroundtc.co.uk Take a ride up the comedy freeway with a tale of mobsters, missing gems and a mashed-up motorbike. “Lively and most entertaining...The play has a wonderful flow...These talented actor-musicians often chop and change characters with ease. The humour is great and there are plenty of ‘one liners’ to add to the chuckles" Dick’s quiet suburban life is shattered when his brother Julian returns suddenly from The States, for “health” reasons. But his shady American “associates” have unfinished business with him, putting both their health at risk. Their dad’s old motorbike and sidecar, which Dick has been restoring, might come in handy as their getaway vehicle! Following our acclaimed 2018 touring production of The Mariner, we present a black comedy (with original music by Pat Whymark) starring Julian and Dick Mainwaring - reprising the characters they created for Common Ground's 2013 comedy, Stuff In The Attic (“Pat Whymark’s latest play is very funny indeed” East Anglian Daily Times, “Good music and plenty of well-judged comic touches” In Suffolk, “Moments of pure farce alternate with real conflict” What’s on Stage). Expect "The Odd Couple" versus the Mob! Running time - 2 hours (including interval). Suitable for ages 10+ TOUR SCHEDULE Laxfield Village Hall (IP13 8EW), Thursday 3rd October, 7.30pm, Adults £10. 21 yrs & under/unwaged £7, 07807 341364 / Book Online Syleham & Wingfield Village Hall (IP21 4LT), Thursday 10th October, 7.30pm, Adults £10. 21 yrs & under/unwaged £7, 07807 341364 / Book Online www.commongroundtc.co.uk, Julian Harries & Pat Whymark, Common Ground Theatre Company 07807 341364 commongroundtc@btinternet.com Julian Harries & Pat Whymark

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Forthcoming Events

Quiz night for Stradbroke Allotments

Stradbroke Allotment is holding a fundraising quiz! Saturday 30th November at Horham Community Centre.

Doors open 7:00pm for 7:30pm sit down! Teams of max 4 at £5pp. A fantastic luxury hamper for the winning team. Nibbles, raffle and bar! Please show your support and come along to support this event.

Booking is essential! Contact Darren on 07584162646.

Emma Ward

Radio Stradbroke

Further proof that Radio Stradbroke is very much a Community Internet Radio Station, is the news that we will be providing the PA at Archbishop Sancroft HS fireworks display, the SAGA quiz at Horham, & the Christmas lights switch on at All Saints Church. To be able to help out at all these events & keep us on the air, costs money, so we would be grateful if you could support us at our Annual Pop Music Quiz on Saturday 5th October at the Community Centre @ 7:30pm. Teams of 4, entry £5 per person (inc light refreshments). There will be a bar & a raffle. To book a table, ring me on 07796-465347, or turn up on the night. Keep helping us to help you. Also, don't forget our weekly 'Sunday Sessions' at 10 am on www.radiostradbroke.co.uk. Thank you.

Michael Hugman

New Year’s Eve Celebration

Saturn Discos would like to give advance notice and invite you all to bring in the New Year at Stradbroke Sports and Community Centre on Tuesday December 31st at 7.30pm. There will also be a late Bar and Raffle. Tickets are £14 and £7 for under 12s, including a buffet supper and available now – 01379 678666 or 07800 968648. Look out for the posters and celebrate the start of 2020 in style!

Walter Reeve – Saturn Discos

Roughcast Theatre Company presents Bloody Poetry

Roughcast Theatre Company presents Bloody Poetry by Howard Brenton Touring Oct 28th – Nov 9th. Originally staged at the Royal Court in 1987, Bloody Poetry explores the relationship between the poets Byron and Shelley and their wives and lovers. We jump from Switzerland to Italy by way of London, Bath and Dover Beach, from 1816 to 1818 to 1822 – the year that Shelley drowned, mourned by those closest to him, among them the now Lord Byron and his widow, the author of Frankenstein, Mary Shelley. It’s an exciting mix of Romanticism and radicalism, leavened with a fair dose of humour too.

Oct 28 Old King’s Head, Brockdish, Nov 1 Wingfield Barns, Nov 2 Garboldisham Village Hall, Nov 7 Laxfield Village Hall, Nov 8 Fisher Theatre, Bungay Nov 9 New Cut Arts, Halesworth.

Tickets £10/£6 (students) Performances start 7.30pm. Not suitable for young children. For further information tel 01379 586745 or visit www.roughcast.co.uk Pat Parris

Make, Do & Friends

Suffolk Artlink's new programme for older people in rural areas brings creative workshops and events to the villages of Mid-Suffolk and Babergh, providing you with an opportunity to share and learn new skills whilst enjoying a cuppa with friends and neighbours.

Venue: Wingfield and Syleham Village Hall, Hoxne Road, IP21 4LT Accessibility: There is parking outside, flat access, sessions on the ground floor and accessible toilet.

Dates: Wednesday 9th October 10.00am – 12.30pm Photography Wednesday 23rd October 10.00am – 12.30pm Mosaic Wednesday 6th November 10.00am – 12.30pm Ukulele beginners All workshops are run by professional artists, with materials and refreshments provided – and it’s all absolutely FREE. For more information or to book your place, please contact Carrie Phoenix, carrie@suffolkartlink.org.uk or by calling 01986 873955. www.suffolkartlink.org.uk

Autumn Supper

An autumn supper will be held on Saturday 12th October 2019 at Wilby Coronation Hall Time: 7 for 7.30pm. There will be a bar and raffle.

Hot Main Course, Selection of Delicious Puddings and Coffee and Mints Tickets - £12.50 each are available from: Priscilla 01379 388034, Alex 01379 384010, Barbara 01379 384589. In aid of St. Mary’s Church, Wilby. A Very Warm Welcome To Everyone.

Alex Gwyn

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Registered childminder and qualified Montessori teacher.

Set in the beautiful hamlet of Wilby.

Full and part-time places available for all ages.

Open 8am–6pm Tuesday to Friday all year round.

For all enquiries, contact Stephanie on: Phone: 07787154143 Email: stephanie.a.harvey01@gmail.com

—

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Forthcoming Events

Laxfield Produce, Craft and Flea Market

Laxfield Produce, Craft and Flea Market on Saturday 5th October 9.30am -12 midday inside All Saint's Church and in the Royal Oak and outside on Church Plain.

Last month's Market was successfully incorporated within the Laxitude weekend event with some stallholders being accommodated in their large marquee, this month it returns to normal with stalls inside the Church, inside the Royal Oak and outside on Church Plain, linking the two.

There will be lots of stallholders as usual, ranging from local items such as free-range eggs, first class welfarefriendly meats, cakes, bread and bakes including gluten and dairy-free, hand-crafted gifts, artworks, hand-made cards, vintage items and collectibles. Plants and bulbs ready for autumn planting, garden items and turned wood.

Also planning to attend are jewellery makers, makers of hand-made soaps and candles, lampshades, childrens clothes, and lots more, usually 30+ stalls.

Refreshments will be available in the Church, and in the pub where breakfasts, bacon butties and teas/coffees and lunches will all be on offer.

This month we have some entertainment too – with the return of the popular 'Tanglethread'.

This lively Market is very popular with stallholders and customers alike, so there is always a waiting list for indoor stall space, but do contact Catherine Cawood on 01986 798852 for info on availability.

The Laxfield Produce, Craft and Flea Market welcomes you on the first Saturday morning of every month – A Suffolk Market run by lovely friendly people -looking forward to seeing you there!

Carolyn Nichols

Syleham and Wingfield Village Hall Events

Wednesday 9th October - Make, Do & Friends - Suffolk Artslink FREE 10 - 12.30 Fun Photography session for beginners/ improvers - Please book for this session as places limited. Bring your own digital camera (couple to borrow) Call Suffolk Artlink 01986 873955 or email info@suffolkartlink.org.uk Thursday 10th October 'A Sidecar named Despair' Common Ground Theatre at 7.30 a ride up the comedy freeway with a tale of mobsters, missing gems and a mashed-up motorbike. Book via the Common Ground website www.commongroundtc.co.uk Adults 10, U21/ unwaged 7 Sunday 13th October - 3 - 7pm, Sunday afternoon opening - Come along for a chat, play pool or darts, the new digital juke box, bar open.

Wednesday 23rd October - 10 - 12.30 - FREE Suffolk Artlink Craft activity - Mosaic - Design and make a minimosaic decoration with artist Jac Campbell.

Their leaflet says - Come along for a friendly welcome, some tea & cake and a chance to try out something crafty right on your doorstep. Each session is led by a professional artist.

Saturday 26th October - 70s Disco - 8pm Pull on your tank top and flares - really?!?!? or just come as you are, and enjoy the nostalgia and the great music.

Bar open, raffle, bacon rolls to purchase. Fiver on the door/ Free for Sports and Social club members Sunday 27th October - 3 - 7pm, Sunday afternoon opening - Come along for a chat, play pool or darts, the new digital juke box, bar open.

Syleham and Wingfield Sports and Social club have entered a team into the Diss Independent Pool League. The season runs through the Autumn and Winter months. If you're interested in playing Pool please pop to the hall on Tuesday evening and ask, join us, have a go.

SWSSC opens regularly on Tuesday and Friday evenings from 8pm throughout the year. 1st Friday of the month there's Open Mic, 2nd Friday there's Karaoke, Last Friday of the month we run Bingo for locally nominated charities and good causes. Membership of SWSSC is 3.50 for the year, 3.00 for concessions - speak to someone on the bar for more details.

November sees us welcome The Expletives 23.11.19, as well as live jazz from Morphology 30.11.19 and Sunday opening 3 -7pm, 10.11.19 & 24.11.19. Look out for details…

Julie Thompson

Stradbroke Walking Group

Stradbroke’s free Community-led informal Walking Group meets every Thursday. Please come along and join us for a friendly, gentle 30-45 minute walk and chat around this beautiful Village, meeting outside the Stradbroke Antiques Centre (Queen’s Head) at 10.30am. Longer walks can be arranged too, as long as we have enough Walk Leaders. Unless it is really raining, we will be walking! Everyone is welcome, whatever your age or ability - all you need are sensible shoes – and we look forward to seeing you and enjoying a chat with a cup of tea, coffee and cake in the Stradbroke Antiques Centre afterwards. For more information contact either Annie Groves or Dennis Merritt Tel: 07557 633 824. Email: annie.groves@suffolksport.com or Tel: 01379 388 382.

Email: dennis_merritt@hotmail.com Dennis Merritt

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Etheridge Nurseries Laxfield Road,Tel: 384204 Mob 07881 440140 Large Selection of Bulbs. Tulips Daffodils Hyacinths Crocuses etc.

Autumn Bedding Plants. Polyanthus Stocks Sweet Williams Pansy Wall flowers. All ready now.

Lavender Yew Box and Laurels available now. Hedging orders are now ready too take.

Compact Tractor for Hire Rotavating or Flail mower.

Home Grown and Local vegetables available now.

Tomatoes Lettuce Sweetcorn Beetroot Runner Beans etc We have a Huge Selection of Home Grown Pumpkins ready for you.

Passmore Weeks & Richardson

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Sports Roundup

Stradbroke Cricket Club

Another cricket season is 'in the book', which given the pleasant weather we have experienced, is a shame, as is the fact that we have found some late season form, remaining unbeaten in the League sine mid July, with four wins & a tie in our last 5 games. Fittingly the Presidents Match brought the curtain down in dramatic fashion. Needing two to win off the final ball of the season, the Presidents XI scampered one run to leave the scores level. Although they can't read this, many thanks to those players, past & present who travelled some distance (Belgium, Nottingham, & London) to take part, & be present at the Presentations afterwards. Skipper Matt Wise was voted 'Player of the Year', also getting the 'Leading Run Scorer' Trophy with his 436 runs. James Gilbee, with 19, retained his 'Leading Wicket Taker' Trophy Richard Pierce-Saunderson won the 'Champagne Moment' for his fielding mishap, while the Flag Deck Trophy for 'Clubman of the Year' went to the President, Don Lummis. Having just reached 80, his enthusiasm for the Club plus his unsung work behind the scenes, drew the biggest round of applause.

Thank you for continuing to support your local Cricket Club.

Michael Hugman

White Hart Bowls Club

Waveney League Results Shotford away won Connaught B Away Won We finished 2nd in the Waveney League.

Friendly against Stradbroke and District in the Ellis Cup lost.

Well done to all who got through to the Waveney finals and to Mike Grigg for winning the 4 wood singles.

We are now at the end of the bowls season and now the fund raising starts with the bingo, we look forward to seeing you there. The results from our finals day will be announced in the magazine after our bowls dinner and presentation.

Lynn Ruth

Stradbroke Tennis Club

Despite the summer season coming to an end social play afternoons on Mondays and Thursdays between 1.30 and 4.00 will continue over the winter months. So if you would like a game why not come and join us.

Courts are also available for hire through Stradbroke Swim and Fitness Centre (01379 384376) at £8.00 an hour for adults and £4.00 per hour for juniors. Currently courts are only available for hire for daylight hours until repair work has been completed on the floodlights. For any futher information about the Tennis Club or details of membership please give me a ring on 01379 384557.

Kevin Holmes, Secretary Stradbroke Tennis Club

Stradbroke Badminton Club

Stradbroke Badminton Club has started its new season at the High School, Wilby Road. We play on Tuesday nights from 7.30 - 10pm in the school hall (entrance down the left hand side of the school buildings) and all are welcome.

We are a friendly club and do have a mens team in the Ipswich league. For further information please contact Keith Lead on 01379 388031.

Keith Lead

White Hart Bowls Club Prize Bingo

Friday 25th October 2019 at 7.30pm in Stradbroke Community Centre to raise funds for Stradbroke White Hart Bowls Club. Many excellent prizes, raffle, and refreshments. Plus a flyer to win a Hamper.

Julie Ward

Sponsor Page 2 with your own article or advert!

Page 2 is a Sponsored Page, allowing any individual or organisation to request the page for their article or advertisement! The cost of ‘sponsoring ‘ the page will be £25 - this guarantees the whole of the inside front cover page and would give contributors the opportunity to include their own graphics and pictures, laid out to their own design!

It will be possible to request the page some time in advance, but to give fair access the page will not be blocked booked by the same individual or organisation/company for more than two consecutive months. The page will be available on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, but can be booked ahead of time, with payment securing your space in the magazine.

If you would like to reserve Page 2 contact

editors@stradbrokemonthly.co.uk

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Painting and Decorating by Ron Rankin - 25 Years Experience For All Your Domestic & Commercial Property Maintenance & Decorating Competitive Prices - Professional Standards Reliable & Experienced - Highly Recommended Advice & Quotations With No Obligation Tel: 01379 388243 Mob: 07762 326226

For your Lawnmower & Small Engine Repairs and Servicing Tel: Phillip Cleveland on 388306

eMail: johnbedwell18@yahoo.co.uk Web:www.angliansalt.co.uk For all your salt supplies of: Hydrosoft tablet & granular salt, pure dried vaccum salt, de-icing salt.

Also we stock tablets & granular in 10kg bags.

Please contact us for competitive prices either collected or delivered.

Tel 01379 854061 Fax 01379 854 804 We offer free delivery to all Stradbroke residents.

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Sports Roundup

Stradbroke and District Bowls Club Hello everyone, the following details the results of games played since our last report and further info regarding the clubs activities.

Games played until end of season Aug 12 SL Stradbroke lost against Wenhaston Sep 02 WL Stradbroke lost against Gissing [Away] 13WL Stradbroke won against Pulham Market 03 SL Stradbroke won against Sweffing 14WL Stradbroke won against Thorndon 05 Stradbroke won against White Hart [Ellis Cup] 20 WL Stradbroke lost against Diss A 27 SL Stradbroke won against Leiston 28 SL Stradbroke won against Halesworth 29 WL Stradbroke lost against Gissing [Home] 31 Stradbroke won against Scole [Waveney Plate Final] SL Saxmundham 2 woods / WL Waveney 3 woods Stradbroke came fourth in both the Saxmundham and Waveney leagues well done to all who took part in the games and for winning the Waveney Plate final. This has proved to be a very rewarding year for the captains and team members.

In club competiton results: John Dann shield: Winner Sandra Theobald R/up John Dann/ Pam Lewis Mens 2 wood: Winner Michael Last R/Up Bruce Francis Ladies 2 wood: Winner Pam Lewis R/Up Mary Ellis Mixed 4 wood: Winner June Alderton R/Up Michael Last Bowls for Bingo: The session held on the 13 Sept yielded a profit of ÂŁ145 and our thanks to all who attended the club is very grateful for your participation.

We have now come to an end to the season and hope that next will be as successful as this one has been. Future events during the close season will be the AGM and the Annual dinner, details will be announced as to the dates to all members. Thank you very much for your time in reading this report as always if you have any questions with regards to our club give me a call on the following number.

Roy Lee [01379 384729]

News and Views Become an On Call firefighter in Stradbroke

On-call firefighters are a vital part of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, working in small towns or villages from home or their place of work. You could be called out on average 2 or 3 times a week for a couple of hours.

It's not a problem if you aren't available all of the time.

When can you apply?

The next recruitment window opens on 7 October to 29 November 2019.

You can still register your interest in becoming an on-call firefighter.

Download on-call recruitment pack at https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/suffolk-fire-and-rescue-service/working-forsuffolk-fire-and-rescue/how-to-become-an-on-call-firefighter/ You'll need to: a be 18 or older, and live or work within 5 to 8 minutes (or possibly up to 10 minutes) of a fire station. a have enthusiasm, willingness to work in a team environment and a desire to support your local community. a have consent from your employer to be available when you're working.

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Hammond Garden & Countryside Services Matthew Hammond

Felix Cottage Horham, Eye Suffolk IP21 5EG Tel: 01379 384643

E J BROWN Builder

Specialising in Conifer reduction.

All hedge work and garden clearance.

Any size lawn mowed.

Rough grass cut & strimmed.

Hedges and trees supplied and planted.

Small tree work - pruning/felling Lawns turfed and seeded All types of fencing Patios and paths laid.

Free estimates, all jobs considered.

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Service and repairs to all cars, light commercial and 4x4’s Specialists in vehicle diagnostics Free local collection and delivery Courtesy car available Prompt attention assured Competitive rates

Open 8:00am - 5:30pm Mon-Fri, 8:00am - 12 noon Saturdays Barley Hall, Laxfield Road, Stradbroke, IP21 5NQ Located on the B1117 1 3/4 miles outside Stradbroke towards Laxfield.

Letter to the Editors...

Editors It was with great delight that I read Mr Torben Merriott’s witty, amusing and insightful letter to you in the September issue of the Stradbroke Monthly. I think you should offer him a monthly column as he has more of value to say than the elected representative on the penultimate page of your august organ ever has to say. And that really is the reason I am writing. In one letter full of truths which apply not just to this village, not just to local politics, but to the sorry state of our national politics, Mr Merriott has said more of substance than most of our elected representatives (of any persuasion) have said in a life-time of “serving” their electors - maybe that should read “in a life-time of lying to their electors.”

We live in uncertain times, and in such times it is vitally important for central, regional and local government to make every effort to continue funding local services. And yet we have politicians who were in charge of removing 20,000 police officers from the service throughout the country suddenly claiming that they’re the ones who will hire another 20,000 officers. This is blatant nonsense.

Similarly, however much we love the sense of community in villages like ours, it is not within our community’s remit to make life easier for government officials by ourselves undertaking those services which those agencies are tasked with providing to us, and which those agencies are actually tasked with funding.Remember back to when we had the protests to save our library – that was real activism, activism that brought with it results, activism that saw elected representatives scurry back to Endeavour House with their tails between their legs because they’d been shown the true effects of what their misguided money-saving policies would actually be.

To kowtow to government by setting up voluntary organisations that were at their height at the time of Abigail’s Party (and similarly socially divisive), where additional error interfaces and hierarchies are built into the social fabric of what actually is on the whole an egalitarian village, is evidently pie-in-the-sky thinking.

The best way, as Mr Merriott so eloquently says, is to put pressure on our county councillors and MPs to wake up and smell the coffee, to stop being party-political, and to make central government raise taxes for the rich to bring funding for local services back to the level at which they should be.

I very much look forward to Merriott’s Monthly Musings which must surely be the name for Torben’s new column.

Yours faithfully, Richard Pierce-Saunderson

Editors I was a little surprised to read Mr Torben Merriott’s letter in the September edition of the Stradbroke Monthly. As he is an exparish councillor, I would have thought he would have welcomed residents volunteering to improve the quality of life in our village.

We have many voluntary organisations in this village (far to many to list them all), whose contribution to the community makes Stradbroke the wonderful place that it is to live.

Mr Merriott might just want to take note of the following points.

Tidying up the village – we all know that Trevor does a superb job, but he is only paid for 8.5 hours work per week and his duties are mainly in the centre of the village. In other areas, it’s hard not to notice that signs are dirty and gutters are full of straw and vegetation. Trevor is also ably assisted by another resident, who originally for many years voluntarily picked up litter in the village (armed only with a black sack + rubber glove). Those residents who have visited the cemetery recently will have noticed that the gates and railings have now been painted – this job has been undertaken by the newly formed volunteer Working Party (with or without Hi-viz vests).

Neighbourhood Watch Area – there was an extremely effective Neighbourhood Watch organisation in the village for many years, which only disbanded because the coordinator wanted to stand down, and no other resident was prepared to take this on.

I don’t think you will find that members of any Neighbourhood Watch team consider themselves to be vigilantes, and certainly the police are always grateful for any feedback from these groups. Some residents are prepared to report incidents to a local coordinator, but are not happy to contact the police direct.

Spar Shop – just for the record, the owners of the shop successfully thwarted two previous raids on the shop. With regard to the recent raid – as a result of actions taken by the owners, one of the raiders was caught, convicted and given a prison sentence. Please note: Police advice is that members of the public should not ‘have a go’ Vandalism, drugs? - I don’t know about drugs, but there has been a certain amount of vandalism recently and the police stress the need for members of the public to inform them.

We all know that public services are being cut and I believe that our elected representatives are fiercely lobbying to try to maintain these services. For me personally, I would rather ensure that dwindling resources are prioritised and spent on items such as school

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buses / local transport etc, rather than, for example, cleaning local signs - especially when there are volunteers in the village prepared to do these jobs.

I have to stress that I am writing this letter as a local resident of 37 years, not in my role as parish councillor.

Pam Cane, Waterloo House, Church Street, Stradbroke Editors I would like to comment on a letter in last month’s magazine entitled “Tosh and BrushUp” The article, over 1000 words long, implied that I and my colleagues are vigilantes; that I am criticising the work of Trevor our street cleaner; that a neighbourhood watch scheme is not a deterrent but an encouragement to thieves; that vandalism and drug abuse are not our problem.

I refute these suggestions and am surprised that the editors approved such an article in the magazine. In response to these implied criticisms I would like to state the following.

At no time have I or any of my colleagues acted aggressively or with threatening behaviour, typical of vigilantes. Trevor does not clean all the streets in Stradbroke. Those that he is responsible for are well looked after; it is the rest of the village that could do with a similar cleaning. The neighbourhood watch scheme, (according to the police), is in fact the most effective crime prevention initiative ever! If anyone thinks vandalism is not an issue, then they should talk with some of the elderly families in Westhall who have kids banging on their doors and windows, and throwing dustbin lids and rubbish into their gardens. They are frightened and should not be intimidated in this way. Finally, If anyone thinks drug abuse is not a problem then tell that to the mother who phoned me almost in tears because her son was being groomed into taking Class “A” drugs.

In summary, I think it is irresponsible of the editors to publish an article of this nature, which belittles the work of a few volunteers who care about these issues. I would like to see an acknowledgement of the problems that some members of our community are facing as a result of vandalism and drug abuse.

If anyone witnesses any illegal activity then my advice is always “call the police on 999 immediately”. They are aware of the problems and will treat all calls seriously and in confidence.

Don Darling

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News and Views

Suffolk Constabulary News

2 X 12 =100. Proactive team hits 100 arrests.

Suffolk PCC, Tim Passmore raised the policing precept of our council tax in April.

An additional £2 a month increased a Band D precept by £24 in 2019/2020.

The result was Suffolk Constabulary’s team dedicated to cracking down on criminals, protecting local communities and tackling cross-border criminality which has hit the 100 arrest mark.

The Operation Sentinel team, active since late May, provides enhanced coverage of Suffolk’s road network to proactively disrupt serious and organised criminal activity as well as increasing police visibility.

105 arrests have been made (from 28 May up to 12 September), for a variety of offences including possession with intent to supply drugs, fraud offences, handling stolen goods, possession of offensive weapons, attempted robbery and failing to appear before court.

The team, comprising of (one sergeant and six constables), has been made possible by an increase in police numbers paid for by the PCCs decision to raise the Council Tax precept. The two teams who will provide the same service to the East and West of the county will be up and running very shortly.”

Suffolk Constabulary

The Surviving Winter Appeal Saves Lives!

In Suffolk 310 vulnerable people died from causes attributed to cold and poor living conditions, and it is estimated that 43,330 households in Suffolk live in fuel poverty. The Surviving Winter Campaign, led by the Suffolk Community Foundation with the East Anglian Daily Times, CAB and other partner charities and businesses, and last year, the Suffolk Surviving Winter Campaign heated over 700 homes of older vulnerable people. This year’s campaign will be launched in early November. Together we will achieve even greater success if we encourage people in Stradbroke, and the surrounding area, who need help, to contact their local Citizens Advice Bureau for help with their fuel bills or, for those who can afford it, the donation of all or part of their Winter Fuel Payment to help another. To donate to the campaign visit www.suffolkcf.org.uk or call 01473 602602. Anyone can make a donation too.

Vicky Beckley

Teeing off to raise £5,000 of charity cash

A campaign to raise vital funds towards the running costs of an innovative resource centre for people with life-limiting illnesses has been given a £5,000 boost thanks to the generosity of local golfers.

The Pear Tree Fund, formerly known as Halesworth Community Nursing Care Fund, hosted its fifth annual golf day at Halesworth Golf Club on Friday (6 September). Around 100 golfers took to the fairways to take part in the main competition, a putting contest and raffle, which together raised a total of £4,800.

The money will go towards the running costs of the Pear Tree Centre, which is being built on land next to Cutlers Hill Surgery in Halesworth and is due to open later this year or early in 2020.

The centre will bring a full range of holistic services closer to home for people in south Norfolk and north east Suffolk who have cancer or other life-limiting illnesses. This includes benefits advice, support for children and families, complementary therapies, help understanding a diagnosis, counselling and bereavement support.

The Pear Tree Fund is now raising money towards the centre’s running costs of around £140,000 a year.

To find out more about the centre and how you could support the charity, visit www.peartreefund.org Liz Hearnshaw

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Airports - Cruise Terminal Long Distance Days/Nights Out Local Journeys Reliable, Professional, Friendly Service Competitive prices (fixed fares) Same fare day and night (apart from Christmas and New Year) Contact: Ian Phone: 07825 001270 (7am - 9pm) Email: iansprivatehire@gmail.com

THE CELLPHONE & FAX SPECIALIST

TGA Communications Ltd Purchase your new cellphone from TGA Communications at competitive prices Enquiries welcome 7am to 7pm days a week.

We also sell secondhand equipment & part-ex welcome.

WE OFFER A FULL RANGE OF CELLULAR PHONES INCLUDING Motorola - Panasonic - Mitsubishi - NEC - Nokia Professional After Sales Service Hire of Equipment (including European use of GSM) For further details: Brundish Rd, Wilby Tel: 01379 388156 Fax 01379 388109

Keeping in touch: Dan Poulter, MP

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At the time of writing this month’s article, Parliament has returned after its summer recess and I am especially delighted to welcome our new Chancellor, Sajid Javid’s first Spending Review. In his inaugural speech on the steps of No 10, our Prime Minister pledged to level up education funding and I am delighted that the Chancellor’s Spending Review honours that commitment.

We have fantastic schools here in Central Suffolk and North Ipswich and they have historically lagged behind their counterparts in London and other cities in terms of funding. I have long campaigned for more money for our schools here in Suffolk and this new funding boost will finally go some way to closing the funding gap and ensuring that each and every child here in Suffolk can have the very best start in life with access to a good education.

Overall, school funding is set to increase by £7.1 billion by 2022/23 – that’s £4.1 billion above inflation when compared to 2019/20 funding levels. The Chancellor has also pledged to ensure that schools, such as those here in Suffolk, which have been historically underfunded will benefit the most.

Under the new plans, secondary schools in Suffolk are set to receive a minimum of £5000 per pupil from next year, and primary schools are set to receive a minimum of £3750 per pupil next year, rising to a minimum of £4000 per pupil the following year.

I regularly visit schools across Central Suffolk and North Ipswich and funding is almost always on the agenda, with the need for our schools to be able to plan and forecast budgets in advance. I regularly feedback these comments to the Department for Education and I am heartened that in his Spending Review, the Chancellor has committed to providing a full three-year resource settlement for schools, helping to provide stability and confidence in budget planning.

I was also especially pleased to hear that teacher’s starting salaries are also set to rise, meaning that we can attract and retain more top graduates into teaching here in Suffolk, helping our children and young people to thrive and enjoy an outstanding education with the next generation of inspirational teachers.

I work hard to support our schools here in Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, lobbying for more money in Parliament and visiting schools to meet with pupils and teachers when I’m back in Suffolk. It’s only right that rural schools, such as ours in Suffolk, get their fair share of funding. Whilst this latest cash injection is welcome news, I will continue to work hard to support our schools and to make sure that they get the funding they deserve.

For more information, please visit my website www.drdanielpoulter.com

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Village Diary

September 29th Radio Stradbroke on air from 10 am www.radiostradbroke.co.uk 30th Rummikub Club from 2 – 4.30 pm and every Monday at the Court House 30th Learn: New Autumn Courses at Eye Bowls Club 30th ‘Tiny Talk Baby Signing’ at the Court House at 10.30 am and every Monday October 1st Jumping Beans for babies/toddlers/children under 5, and every Tuesday 1st Contact Club meet in Community Centre and every Tuesday 1st Stradbroke Badminton Club meet @ High School, and every Tuesday (see page 22) 2nd Table tennis in the Community Centre at 7.30pm, and every Wednesday 3rd Court House Café 9.30am-12.30pm, and every Thursday 3rd Over 60s meet in Community Centre at 2pm (see page 10) 3rd Stradbroke Walking Group meet at 10.30 am and every Thursday (see page 20) 3rd Chess Club at Court House from 7.30pm, all welcome (see front page) 3rd Common Ground Theatre at Laxfield Village Hall (see page 17) 4th ‘Friday Friends’ dementia friendly café in Court House (see page 10) 5th Court House Café 9.15am-12.15pm, and every Saturday 5th Laxfield Produce, Craft and Flea Market from 9.30 am (see page 20) 5th Flu Clinics for Over 65s at Stradbroke Medical Centre (see page 12) 5th Radio Stradbroke Pop Music Quiz at 7.30pm in Community Centre (see page 18) 5th All Saints Church Fundraising Committee Jumble Sale (see page 4) 6th Radio Stradbroke on air from 10 am www.radiostradbroke.co.uk 8th New Intake Day for 2020 at Stradbroke Primary School (see page 10) 9th Baptist Church Friendship Lunch at 12.30pm (see page 3) 9th Suffolk Artlink activities at Syleham & Wingfield Village Hall (see page 20) 10th Book Journey Challenge at Stradbroke Library (see front page) 10th Common Ground Theatre at Syleham & Wingfield Village Hall (see page 17) 10th WI meet in Community Centre (see page 9) 11th All Saints Church Fundraising Committee Cash Bingo in Community Centre (see page 4) 12th Suffolk Libraries Day at Stradbroke Library (see front page) 12th Autumn Supper at Wilby Village Hall at 7pm (see page 18) 13th Radio Stradbroke on air from 10 am www.radiostradbroke.co.uk 13th Sunday afternoon opening at Syleham & Wingfield Village Hall (see page 20) 14th Stradbroke Parish Council meeting at Court House, 7.30 pm (see page 6) 15th Learn: talk on Witchfinder General at 2pm (see page 17) 17th Over 60s meet in Community Centre at 2pm (see page 10) 17th Stradbroke Cinema presents ‘Rocketman’ (see page 17) 18th **Deadline for submissions for October edition strictly by this date** 18th All Saints Church Fundraising Committee Cheese & Wine Supper (see page 4) 19th Over 60s annual sale & coffee morning in Community Centre at 10.30am (see page 10) 20th Radio Stradbroke on air from 10 am www.radiostradbroke.co.uk 22nd PC Clinic at 2.15pm in Court House (see page 6) 23rd Suffolk Artlink activities at Syleham & Wingfield Village Hall (see page 20) 23rd Over 60s trip to Bury St Edmunds (see page 10) 23rd Baptist Church Friendship Lunch at 12.30pm (see page 3) 25th White Hart Bowls Club prize bingo in Community Centre (see page 22) 26th 1970s Disco at Syleham & Wingfield Village Hall from 8pm (see page 20) 27th Radio Stradbroke on air from 10 am www.radiostradbroke.co.uk 27th Sunday afternoon opening at Syleham & Wingfield Village Hall (see page 20) November 1st Roughcast Theatre Company at Wingfield Barns (see page 18) 6th Ukelele for Beginners at Syleham Village Hall 10am (see page 18) 7th Roughcast Theatre Company at Laxfield Village Hall (see page 18) 9th SSCC Autumnal Supper at 7.30pm (see page 19) 30th Stradbroke Allotments Quiz night at Horham Community Centre (see page 18)