Ipswich24 Magazine - October 2022

The fun starts on Saturday 1st October, with the rocking vocals of Julie Nevada, in ‘Tina Live!’, simply the best tribute to Tina Turner currently touring. Next up, it’s ‘The Best of British TV Comedy’, on Sunday 2nd October, 2.30pm. This show features stars of classic sitcoms such as Hi-De-Hi, Dad’s Army, ‘Allo ‘Allo!, and Fawlty Towers. The immense combined talents of Jeffrey Holland, Sue Hodge, April Walker, Judy Buxton, and Debbie Hudd, with Keith Richards at the piano, promise an afternoon of fun and laughter.

The hilarity continues on Friday 7th, with Roy Chubby Brown. Adult jokes aplenty and 18+ recommended. Jammin’ is on the menu the very next night as ‘Legend: The Music of Bob Marley’ returns, by popular demand. On Thursday 13th

What’s on at the Felixstowe Spa in October

entertainment on the coast

October, Adult Panto Tour present the wickedly funny ‘Sinderella’. This show has a star-studded cast who rose to fame on Ru Paul’s Drag Race: Detox, Janey Jacke, Davey Hopper, David Potts, Sophia Stardust and Tiana Biscuit.

The Great Dublin Soul Revival comes to town on Friday 14th October, with The Stars from the Commitments performing “the best Soul review ever seen or heard”! Completing a run of three consecutive show nights, it’s ‘FastLove’: the world’s favourite George Michael Celebration and on Saturday 22nd October, ‘Legends of American Country’ promises a fantastic night of toe-tapping Country classics.

On Thursday 27th, at 2.30pm, Cirque Du Hilarious present a show full of things that go bump in the night! Starring CBBC’s Danny & Mick, ‘A Fright in the Museum’ follows what happens when a museum comes to life at the stroke of midnight, and chaos breaks out! The show is packed with hilarious comedy routines, magic, mayhem, slapstick and speciality acts.

Next up, on Friday 28th, ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ finalist Belinda Davids delivers a beautifullycrafted tribute to one of the world’s most revered singers. ‘The Greatest Love of All’ celebrates the musical legacy of Whitney Houston, and will have you feeling “A Higher Love”.

Finally: What better way to celebrate Halloween night than with The Addams Family? The

smash hit comedy musical features a full live orchestra, and features Hannah Gingell as Wednesday Addams. Nurse Hannah won the hearts of the nation with her beautiful voice on BBC2’s ‘The Choir’.

Tickets for all shows are available from the Spa Box Office: Tuesday to Sunday, 11am-4pm in person or by calling 01394 284962.

You can also select and book seats online, 24/7, at www.fxspa.co.uk

For another way to support the Spa and enjoy the panoramic sea views, their café, bars & restaurant are now open from 9.30am to 6pm every day. Ice creams, homemade cakes and a wide-ranging menu are all available to eat in or take away, plus a fabulous Sunday roast. Food is always served for two hours before every performance, with reservation advised on 01394 336336.

You can follow the Spa Pavilion on Facebook/ Instagram, for all the latest news and show updates. Alternatively, you can sign up to their email newsletter at www.fxspa.co.uk

From “ROCKtober” to “SHOCKtober”: Felixstowe Spa Pavilion have something for everyone this month. The award-winning seafront theatre recently announced their full winter season, with a very busy few months ahead. October is the busiest of them all, with no less than 13 shows.

INSIDE THIS MONTH OCTOBER

Arts:

Strictly

waltzes

what the Regent and Corn Exchange have lined up for the season, plus George Michael Tribute and Festive Fun at Eastern Angles.

Events Diary

Your day-by-day guide to the month of OCTOBER, including live music, boot sales, craft fairs and much more.

To get your event listed for FREE email us at listings@ipswich24.co.uk

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In Later Life:

Help and advice for the older generation (and their families). This month we ask “What is your retiree personality”? There’s help to avoid the retirement blues, activities and help with getting on the internet and staying safe.

Howl-o-ween:

Dog owners give your pooch a treat this October with a Halloween Party for them and you, plus lots of doggy treats.

At Home:

13

With the cost of living soaring we have advice on keeping fresh fruit and veg longer. Plus a warning if you intend to have a real fire this winter, as well as tips on preparing for a great garden next summer.

26-35

Ipswich24

If

On Thursday 13th October the author A. K. Blakemore will be appearing at the Ipswich Institute, as a guest of the Suffolk Book League.

A. K. Blakemore is the author of two full-length collections of poetry: Humbert Summer (Eyewear, 2015) and Fondue (Offord Road Books, 2018), which was awarded the 2019 Ledbury Forte Prize for Best Second Collection. She has also translated the work of Sichuanese poet Yu Yoyo (My Tenantless Body, Poetry Translation Centre, 2019). Her poetry and prose writing has been widely published and anthologised, appearing in the The London Review of Books, Poetry, Poetry Review and The White Review,

among others. The Manningtree Witches (Granta, 2021), her latest book, is set during the witch-hunting Puritan seventeenth century and won the 2021 Desmond Elliot Prize. Doors open at the Ipswich Institute Reading Room & Library 15 Tavern Street IP1 3AA at 7pm with the event starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets, £5 for Suffolk Book League members or £10 for non-members, can be obtained via the League’s website www.suffolkbookleague.org/

Suffolk Book League

Accidents Abroad

with LOUISE PLANT of Prettys Solicitors

Having sped by in a blink, the summer holidays are now over. Most of us will have enjoyed the holiday period without incident. Sadly though, some of us aren’t that lucky.

So, what happens and what should you do if you have an accident on holiday, particularly if you’re abroad? And which country’s laws and procedures would apply to your claim, if you wanted to pursue a compensation case for personal injury and loss?

The answer to that depends on the type of claim and the circumstances of your accident.

Were the injury and loss the result of a road traffic accident, a slip or a trip or a fall? In which country did it take place? Who are the parties to your claim - a private individual, a hotel or perhaps your tour operator?

Generally speaking, the rules are as follows:

1. - If the accident occurred during a package tour, then you can make a claim in the UK courts against the company that you booked the holiday with.

2. - If you were involved in a road traffic accident travelling in Europe or if you’re an employee driving as part of a business that has offices in the UK, then you can bring your claim in the UK courts.

3. - If the accident or incident was the fault of a UK national like you abroad, then again your claim can be brought in the UK courts.

4. - If, however, the accident or incident occurred in a foreign country and was caused by a foreign individual or company, then you will probably need to bring the claim in the country where the accident occurred, subject to its national laws.

5. - If you suffer an injury or loss while on an aircraft, claims work in the following ways:

6. - If the incident occurred on a domestic UK flight, you can make a claim using UK law.

7. - If the incident took place on an international flight that was part of a package holiday, then again you can claim against the tour operator or even the airline using UK law.

8. - However, if the accident or incident took place while you were on an international flight booked by yourself, things are not always clear cut – there may be a choice as to whether you can start your claim where the airline is based, the country that you purchased the flight in or the country where the flight ended.

Unfortunately, if you have an accident abroad, it isn’t always clear cut as to whether you can bring a claim for compensation for personal injury and loss in the UK. Even if you can, your claim may still be subject to the law of the country in which the accident occurred.

It is important that if you have suffered an injury abroad, you seek assistance from a lawyer as soon as possible who will be able to advise you as to whether you can bring a claim and, if so, in which court and what laws will apply. Prettys Solicitors LLP is a member of Galexy, an association of over 20 international lawyers. So, should you require the assistance of a lawyer from another country, we are able to assist you, whatever the situation or particular demands of your case.

• If you have had an accident or suffered personal injury and loss abroad, please contact Louise Plant on 01473 298293 or at lplant@prettys.co.uk

Arts & Crafts Fair returns

Good news! The KirtonArts and Crafts Fair isback again. It promises to be anothergreat occasion with opportunities to buyfrom a wide range of itemsfrom crocheted and knitted goodsto paintings, jewellery to stained glass,and so much more.

The stall-holders aretalented localartists and craftspeople. Admission (and parking) is free so drop by for coffee and cake or a light lunch;as usual bacon rolls will be available from 10am forthe early birds! Try your luck in the grand draw. All profits from the day will be donated to local charities including The Blossom Appeal.

Kirton Arts and Crafts Fair Saturday 22nd October from 10am – 3 pm at Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton, IP10 0PU

Why not come along, bring your friends and start your Christmas shopping early!

• For more information contact Julieon 01394448897 or emailjaygard35@gmail.com

Helping Hands wanted Celebrate National Poetry Day

Ever wanted to do a little something to help your local community but don’t necessarily have a great deal of spare time?

Working with others with a similar mindset can be a lot of fun and very rewarding.

Opportunities like this vary in type considerably, from for example, helping with a DIY project for a local charity, involvement with competitions to help develop the Youth, support for the less fortunate in our society and various fundraising activities . The list goes on.

The Rotary Club of Ipswich have some projects coming up when they could do with some extra help.

If you might be interested in finding out more about what they do and how they do it, they are having an open social evening on 27th October in Ipswich.

There will be no obligation and no pressure. They are all volunteers and do what they do because they enjoy it and enjoy the friendship that it creates.

• If this might be you, email to enquiries@ipswichrotary.org.uk.

Evening

A great variety of different readers, some fabulous therapists with relaxing pamper treatments plus shopping stalls for retail therapy!

Discount Tickets can be purchased online via www.ticketsource.co.uk/booking/t-yaaplva

First

A trio of Suffolk poets will help Woodbridge celebrate National Poetry Day at the Library on 6th October.

Derek Adams, a professional photographer, will read from his recently published collection of poems entitled Exposure in which he talks about the extraordinary and captivating life of Lee Miller, American photographer, model, artist’s muse and war correspondent. Some years ago Derek was the BBC Wildlife Poet of the Year.

Alexandra Davis teaches English and has had two poetry collections published, the most recent entitled Torches and Sparks in which her own poems reflect on and respond to the poetry of the First World War. The third poet is Julia Duke whose first poetry pamphlet Conversations was published last year. In part her writing is inspired by the landscape of Suffolk to which she moved after several years living in the Netherlands and then Wales.

This important contribution to Poetry Day takes place at Woodbridge Library from 7.30pm on Thursday 6th October. Tickets are £6 (students £3) which includes an interval drink and can be booked at the Library or by phoning 01394 330855. Later in the month comes the second in the new series of lunchtime concerts at the Library. The TrickerLilley Duo will play on Tuesday 18th October from 12.45pm to 1.30pm. Between them Dave Tricker and Steve Lilley make a lovely sound playing guitar, mandolin, ukulele and bouzouki. The event is free of charge. Just turn up and take a seat!

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WIN:Tickets to mega firework event

Remember, remember, the 5th of November! Organisers announce exciting line-up for this year’s Christchurch Park Fireworks in Ipswich!

Organisers of East Anglia’s premier musical fireworks display are excited to announce plans for Ipswich’s original, biggest and longest-running fireworks event taking place in the town’s historic Christchurch Park on Saturday 5th November 2022.

Enjoy a sensational fireworks display choreographed to a mega-mix of chart-topping hits, brought to you by regionally based Alchemy Fireworks Ltd, unique in the field of pyro-choreography in the UK.

There’ll be all the fun of the fair, street foods, a bar, fire performances, a roaring bonfire and incredible entertainment over three live-music stages.

New for 2022, organisers welcome “Jax&Co”; a Suffolk based Johnny Cash tribute band who’ll undoubtedly heat things up with their rendition of “Ring of Fire”!

Four Piece power-pop and dance-rock outfit, “Reno & Rome” also join the line-up alongside Ipswich singer Tori McKew. Tori recently worked on a song, “Destiny”, which featured in the top 10 of the UK commercial club charts.

Local singer and songwriter “Adam Thomas” makes a highly anticipated return to the event with his unique style, percussion and acoustic guitar; Adam gives a new edge and style to his live performances. Adam will share the stage with another local talent, “Chloe Spinks”. Chloe who goes by the stage name “C H

L O E” is an emerging singer- songwriter who has recently released her music video for “Best Friend”.

Ipswich Hospital Community Choir will be making their inaugural appearance with their wide-ranging repertoire, from classical to recent pop.

Not to be missed are the awe-inspiring fire shows by Ruby Flames Entertainment, who’ll be treating you to three performances throughout the evening.

Tickets go on sale from Saturday 1st October and are only available online at www.ipswichfireworks. com at a cost of £7.95 per child and £9.95 per adult. Children under 5 years old go free!

Gates open at 6:00pm with fireworks at 8:00pm and family fun through to 10:00pm.

— COMPETITION — Ipswich24 has got four family tickets for The Fireworks Spectacular in Christchurch Park, Ipswich on Saturday 5th November 2022 to give away to lucky readers. To be in with a chance of winning this amazing prize just send your answer to the following question, along with your name, address and a contact telephone number to: Ipswich Firework Spectacular Competition, Ipswich24, 12A Britannia Road, Ipswich, IP4 4PE or you can enter online at www.ipswich24.co.uk. The closing date for entries is Friday 21st October 2022.

Q How many live-music stages will there be at the Firework Spectacular in Christchurch Park?

n Jax&Co

n Reno & Rome

No Trick just a well-deserved Treat

You can feel it in the air Autumn is just around the corner! So Pennikkity Pots Ceramics Café is busy updating the studio and preparing for Half Term, Halloween and then of course Christmas.

The studio will be colourfully decorated and packed with seasonal items to paint offering the perfect place to entertain the family, relax with some friends or maybe just enjoy some quality ‘me time’. There is a great onsite café too, which you don’t have to paint to enjoy, serving delicious home-made cakes, scones and savouries plus fair trade Italian coffee locally roasted in Suffolk plus a great selection of teas and warming hot chocolate perfect on a chilly day, with seating inside and out.

This cosy little town centre studio and cafe is open every day (except for Wednesdays term time but open all week for school holidays) and is highly recommended. The friendly team are always on hand to guide you through the process, assist with hand and footprints and even Halloween

‘Bumpkins’ plus happy to offer helpful hints, tips and tricks to get the best results. Booking is advisable for painting with tables available at 10am, 12pm midday and 2pm, these are guaranteed for a minimum of an hour and a half. Booking can be made calling the shop on 01473 216865 or via their Facebook page ‘Pennikkity Pots Ceramics Café’. Alternately, you can just turn up and chance it too, if all the tables are taken the next available one will be reserved especially for you!

The following programme of events are planned so why not make a note in your diary and co0ntact the studio for full details:

- Friday 7th October – Late Night Opening for adults only Painting, Prosecco & Pizza

- Friday 21st October – Glass Painting Autumnal Lanterns adult evening workshop

- Friday 28th October – ‘Freaky Friday’ with haunting children’s clay workshops for aged 6 years upwards using air dry clay so you can take your masterpiece home on the day.

- Friday 4th November – Late Night Opening for adults only Painting, Prosecco & Pizza

- Friday 11th November – ‘Build a Boob Pot’ a fun evening of creativity, laughter, body positivity, breast health and a bit of bubbly!

- Friday 25th November – Seasonal Christmas ceramic painting adult evening workshop

With rising costs in our household bills we are all conscious of spending extra pennies right now but also remember a little self-care goes a long way and creative activities are very mindful and support our wellbeing. Don’t forget to cut out and use our great discount voucher!

Dare you enter the fort of horrors?Little

Tickets are now on sale for the hugely popular Little Fort of Horrors at Landguard Fort (Felixstowe, Suffolk) this Halloween.

On the 500th anniversary of the sinking of the notorious pirate ship ‘Black Raider’ off the shores of the Landguard Peninsula, the evil Pirate King Blackbeard and his motley crew of cut-throats will rise again to take their bloody revenge on those that are brave enough to visit the fort.

Get ready for a scary night of shocks and surprises on Friday 28th and Saturday 29th Octoberas you scream your heart out with the live actors, special effects and spooky atmosphere at one of the most haunted places in Britain.

Entry to Blackbeard’s Bloody Revenge is by ‘timed ticket’ - and you can book a 10 minute arrival time slot between 7pm and 10.30pm. Book now, all tickets are £15.00 per person. Note, there is no admittance to anyone under 14 years of age.

Nicola Barker, General Manager of Landguard Fort said, “We are so thrilled that our popular Halloween event is returning for 2022. With Pirate King Blackbeard and his crew back from the dead for revenge, who knows who you might meet in the dark and eerie passageways and rooms of the fort. Come prepared for screams and shocks at the Little Fort of Horrors”.

• Full details and to book tickets at

www.landguard.com/whats-on/ little-fort-of-horrors

As October’s days and nights grow cooler, you may get the urge to hide under a blanket and binge watch Halloween flicks, hot chocolate in hand.

But take time to step outside and explore nature this Halloween because it’s about to reveal a strange, slimy, creepy-crawly, and sometimes hooty world.

Families can meet some of Halloween’s most spooktacular wildlife this month at RSPB nature reserves across the country, at their fun-filled family events. To find your nearest RSPB Halloween event,

Spookiest Species of the Month: Funky Fungi

Even some of the names of fungi read like a Halloween film list:dead man’s fingers, yellow brain or ‘witches butter’, elbow patch crust, devil’s tooth, and doll’s eyes. Fungi come in all shapes and sizes, a rainbow colours, and they underpin life on earth.Here are the RSPB’s top five fungi facts:

Animal, Plant or Mineral? Fungi don’t fit into these categories; they are a separate kingdom. There are over 15,000 species of fungi in the UK and only about 4000 of these are mushrooms and other large fungi that we easily spot in nature. You’d need a microscope to see the rest.

Strange fruit– mushrooms are the fruit of the fungi organism. The main part of the fungi grows underground and is called the mycelium, made up of a web of fine threads called hyphae.

Bit whiffy – some fungi emit foul smells in a sticky, stinky substance on the outside of the mushroom, like the aptly named stinkhorn. These punchy perfumes attract flies and insects that land on the fungi, spreading the fungi’s spores when they fly away.

Supporting life on earth - fungi break down millions of tons of organic waste such as leaf litter and deceased animals. The decayed matter fungi then produce feeds plants, animals, and releases nitrogen and phosphorus into the atmosphere, essential nutrients in nature.

down plastic in a matter of weeks rather than the decades it takes to naturally breakdown. Although there are a few fungi that can be eaten, some fungi are poisonous so it’s best not to touch or pick them. Instead, learn where you are most likely to discover them at anRSPB reserve near you. Help children get excited about the fungi by taking part in ourFabulous Fungi Wild Challenge.

Other wildlife that may go bump in the night near you – boo!

Bats – we have 18 species of bats in the UK, but thankfully you don’t need to wear garlic around any of them. Take a walk at dusk and watch their jagged silhouettes dart and dive as they catch insects on the wing, filling up for hibernation. Common pipistrelle’sare our most seen bat and only weigh as much as a 20 pence coin. Don’t be fooled by their small size, they eat up to 3000 gnats in one night.

Spiders and mini beasts – wriggling, creeping, and crawling, the world of insects is fascinating. The bug safariWild Challenge is a fantastic way to discover the different species hiding in our gardens, parks, and cities. Search under damp logs, stones, and crevices in walls. Look out for spiders’ webs bejewelled with morning dew drops.

Life Savers – the discovery of thePenecillium mould in 1928 by Alexander Fleming lead to the development of a commercial antibiotics, which has saved countless lives. Fungi are also important in tackling climate change; aspergillus tubingensisfungi breaks

The RSPB also has a range of Halloweeninspired pin badges, featuring mushrooms to mice and birds to bats.

• You can explore and buy the collection here:ebay.co.uk/str/rspb

Festive Crafting

With the nights ‘pulling in’ thoughts now turn to activities to keep us busy during the coming months.

Christmas is on the horizon and now is the time to begin crafting either for a gift or to decorate your home.

‘Crafty’ kits are always a popular choice for gifts if you would rather give this instead of a completed object. At Craftability they have a huge selection of kits starting from under £5. These would be perfect to keep your young (or not so young) recipient from playing on their computer or phone!

The seasonal workshops are now beginning. These along with Craftability’s ‘regular’ ones mean that you can join them, learn something new, chat, have coffee and ultimately take home something you have made yourself.

If you just need supplies for whatever your preferred medium Craftability have something for everyone. The staff are knowledgeable, helpful and always willing to ‘go the extra mile’.

As ever, they look forward to seeing you and a reminder that the opening times remain at Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 4pm.

Notes from the farm Half Term at Baylham House Farm

It is always a pleasure to visit the farm and just before we move to weekend opening through November and December it’s going to be even more fun.

For the Spooky Spectacular over Autumn half term week Baylham House Farm are open every day and each child will be able to have a go at the Halloween activities.

It may seem that the farm is quiet at this time of year but it is now that they prepare for the lambing season next year. There are already some groups of ewes running with rams for lambs in February, while others are still waiting to meet ‘the ram of their dreams’ to lamb over Easter.

With pigs and sheep, goats and cows, chickens and ducks – the farm is a great place to entertain, educate and enthral.

Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm is six miles north west of Ipswich, off the B1113 between Great Blakenham and Needham Market. The farm is open every day from 10am to 5pm. With entry prices at £8 for adults, £7 for concessions, £4 for children (aged 4-16) and under four’s free, it would be difficult to find a more entertaining and better value attraction in Suffolk. There will be an additional charge of £1 for carving a pumpkin.

For more information visit the website at www.baylham-house-farm.co.uk, check out Facebook or call 01473 830264.

The Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group presents “Under-standing and Making the Most of your old Photos”by Stephen Gill on Monday 17th October at 2.30pm. HybridZoom and In Person

Over the years, Stephen Gill has gained a vast amount of both practical and academic experience, plus qualifications including Fellowship of the Royal Photographic Society and being awarded Accredited Senior in Imaging in the Creative Industries. He was introduced to photography, when he was about seven, by a family who valued family photography, and from whom he inherited thousands of images, examples of which now appear on his website atwww.photo-consult.co.uk. He started photorestoring in the days of working directly on the negative or print, and has years of experience

managing a national digital restoration service.

His talk this afternoon, entitled “Understanding and Making the Most of your old Photos”, encompasses a lot about dating and knowing what’s going on within your photos — with tips and ideas from his two books, one due out by

Autumn with the Suffolk owls

As the evenings draw in and the early mornings freshen, Suffolk’s wildlife prepares to hunker down for the autumn.

At the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, the popular flying displays have drawn to an end allowing some well-deserved down time for the birds who have thrilled visitors throughout the summer. All owls and other birds of prey need to moult out feathers and grow new ones once every year, so this rest period offers the ideal opportunity to do so.

In the wild, birds will damage feathers by catching them on branches or trees and may snag them when moving around their nest sites. Any damage must be repaired annually in order that the birds’ flight and hunting abilities are not compromised. Similarly, the sanctuary’s resident birds will spoil feathers flying between perches and turning around in nestboxes, so, just like the wild

October, which you can order via his website. This will be both Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group first “hybrid” talk — so over Zoom AND physical — as well as our first at our new venue Saxmundham’s Fromus Centre.

Family History Federation speaker Stephen Gill will be talking to us over Zoom for this afternoon. Attendees over Zoom themselves should bookin the normal way, pleasebefore 5pm on Friday, 14th October. In-person attendees can just turn up (at £1.00 for Members, £3.00 for visitors, and with free tea/biscuits), but should be aware that this is the NEW Fromus Centre building, behind Saxmundham Library, Fromus Centre (behind Library), Saxmundham Hub, Street Farm Road, Saxmundham, IP17 1AL — NOT in Seaman Avenue, which closed in November last year.

birds, they need to restore complete plumage to ensure that their condition and dexterity remains intact.

Despite the flying season coming to an end, visitors to the sanctuary can still see birds in flight throughout the autumn and winter months. Birds still need to be exercised by the falconers on a daily basis and the latter are always happy to engage and chat about individual birds and the techniques they employ to build strong bondswith them.

The trust that exists between bird and falconer is, of course, the foundation on which all activities at the centre are built and is the most fundamental requirement for happy birds and humans!

As well as watching the exercise sessions, visitors can enjoy two meerkat feeding sessions daily - at 11am and 2pm.

Every aspect of the large sanctuary site is available throughout the year including the Woodland Walk which is home to the meerkats and red squirrels, the Sensory Garden which offers a space for relaxation and quiet contemplation and the children’s play area which is fully equipped with double width slide, multi-person swing and wheelchair accessible roundabout. A unique gift shop offers owl souvenirs as well as pocket money gifts for children.

• For further details, please phone 0345 680 7897 or contact info@owl-help.org.uk

Epic fantasy: The Chronicles of Atom & Luna

Epic fantasy tale The Chronicles of Atom & Luna is heading on tour this autumn. The magical children’s adventure from Funnelwick Limb, by poet, writer and broadcaster Murray Lachlan Young, follows young heroes Atom and Luna on a fantastical journey through nature and time.

When Atom and Luna, who have been left home alone, are saved from starvation by an unexpected visitor Iffley Sney, it leads to a series of magical events. When Iffley falls terribly ill, only the twins can save him, and on a journey that will change their lives forever, they must head into the forbidden forest to seek out Old Mother Redbeard.

This production stars Becca Bindang, Farrell Cox, Alex Scott Fairley and Fran Burgoyne.

Ahead of the tour, audiences can start getting inside the world of Atom and Luna with innovative free digital content available from Funnelwick Limb’s website, www. funnelwicklimb.com. Six audio tales delve into the world of the show and a unique, playable augmented reality storybook game gives players the chance to enter the forbidden wood themselves and seek out Old Mother Redbeard.

The Chronicles of Atom & Luna will be at the Sir John Mills Theatre, Ipswich on Thursday 13th October. To book tickets the Box Office on01473 211498 (Monday - Friday: 10am - 2pm) or visit www.easternangles.co.uk

at STONHAM BARNS PARK on the A1120

COVID-Secure

October at Stonham Barns

with the attractions and activities to keep you entertained there are many events for you to go along and enjoy. On Saturday 1st the Legends Sports Bar is hosting a Magamatch Darts Tournament with special guests Keith Deller and Russ Bray. Sign up now. The winner receives £750.

Saturday 22nd sees the return of the Glamtastics, a fabulous 70’s cover band, wear your tartan trousers or your flares for a great night of live music and dancing.

On Saturday 29th the Saxon & Viking Festival returns showing all things Saxon & Viking with re-enactment displays and battles, living history camps, torchlight parade, live music, and refreshments. Don’t forget every Sunday see if you can find a bargain at the Stonham Car Boot and in the theatre, you can go along for an Open Mic afternoon and also see the talented Breeze Redwine performing, check the website for more details.

There are many other activities at Stonham Barns Park which will keep you busy, shopping in the

retail village with over 40 shops and businesses selling gifts, crafts, books, pictures & frames, crystals, clothes, toys, furniture, hair & beauty treatments, homewares, holidays, hot tubs, antiques, sweets, a post office, convenience store, garden centre and lots more.

If you are feeling hungry, there are two great places to eat, the Bistro with its fabulous home cooked food

Lulu for the Record

‘Lulu – For The Record’ will be at the Ipswich Corn Exchange on Friday 27 October 2023.

From Shout to James Bond, from To Sir With Love to The Eurovision Song Contest; Lulu is a bona fide British music legend. On the eve of the 60thanniversary of Shout, she’ll be touring the UK for the first time since Autumn 2019 with her most intimate show to date.

For The Record will combine remarkable stories and stunning clips with song. The show will be a chance to get to know the star who has entertained legions of fans across 60 glorious years.

Lulu says, “I’m excited to be sharing my story and my music with my first tour in four years. It’s been an incredible story and I’m looking forward to telling that in For The Record. This is a completely different show to anything I’ve ever done before.”

The show will feature stories from Lulu’s remarkable career – from being friends with The Beatles to marrying a Bee Gee, from winning the Eurovision Song Contest to enjoying a colossal hit with Shout, from her relationship with David Bowie to the wonder of Relight My Fire, her Number One with Take That. There’ll be exclusive photography and video footage as well as incredible songs from a pop icon, whose star continues to burn bright.

Tickets from £38.50. VIP and meet & greet options also available.

Tickets for Lulu – For the Record at the Ipswich Corn Exchange on Friday 27 October 2023 can be obtainedat www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/ lulu-for-the-record-2/

and the Teapot Tea Room with speciality tea, coffee and delicious homemade cakes and pastries.

Plus visit the Owl Sanctuary with over 90 different birds of prey. Paint your own at The Teapot Pottery or purchase a beautiful hand-crafted teapot. Play a round of adventure golf or try the golf simulators in the Golf Park or spend a few hours fishing in the fully stocked lakes. For the younger ones in your family take a visit to Tumbledown Soft Play Barn with Sensory room or let them jump and play on the FREE bouncy

pillow, enjoy a train ride, or visit the traditional fairground.

With so much to offer why not stay for a holiday or short break.

Bring your own tent, caravan, or motorhome, hire a fully furnished bell tent, the cabin, or fully furnished static holiday home, even purchase your very own holiday home to use 11 months of year.

This is a ‘dog friendly’ site and open seven days a week. Whether you visit for the day or stay for a holiday, you will find lots to keep you busy.

• For more information visit their website: www.stonhambarns.co.uk or their social media pages.

October Events

Four Comedy Legends in one night

Buckle up for a comedy rollercoaster ride that will leave you breathless from rolling in the aisles as these four comedy legends set out on a mission to put the laughter back into the lives of the whole country.

New Zealand Sensation Jarred Christmas is one of the most innovative and exciting stand-ups on the UK circuit. A sought-after headliner famed for his quick-witted spontaneity, masterful skills of improvisation and energetic storytelling. A dynamic onstage persona combined with the ability to improvise with anything that’s thrown his way makes Jarred’s comedy sizzle with originality.

Mike Gunn’s history is as interesting and entertaining as his comedy. A misspent youth and a series of grim jobs cultivated his cynical outlook on life and a perverse desire led him to the world of stand-up. A self-confessed pessimist, he describes himself as “not a natural choice for a career in laughter”. His lugubrious comedy has been described as ‘drier than a dead man’s bones’. His reputation for being a bit unfriendly, a touch dark and even morose is not true. In real life he’s loving, warm and philanthropic. Just a bit misunderstood.

Jarred Christmas, Paul Tonkinson, Ninia Benjamin and Mike Gunn will be relentless in their delivery to ensure that you have a great night. Individually, they are a major comedy force and collectively they will blow you away!

Jongleurs Legends will be at Corn Exchange on Saturday 8th October at 7.30pm. Tickets cost just £28 and are available from www.ipswichtheatres. co.uk or call the Box Office on 01473 433100.

Halloween costumes

So, fed up with the normal witch and ‘sheet over the head’ ghost costumes this Halloween?

A sensational live performer, Yorkshire man, marathon runner and former (double award-winning) Time Out Comedian of the Year, Paul Tonkinson has long upheld his esteemed reputation as one of the finest stand-ups the UK has to offer. With a unique and distinctive style, Tonkinson is noted for his effervescent physicality and skilful impressions, which bring alive exuberant, tender comic reflections on love, family and the day-to-day idiosyncrasies of 21st century living.

Ninia Benjamin is a tour-de-force of comedy… she’s outrageously rude but above all sidesplittingly funny. Ninia was catapulted to stardom as one third of BBC2′s 3 Non-Blondes and has appeared in various shows including Celebrity Masterchef (a terrible chef but very funny) but it’s on the live stage where her comedy talents really shine. According to Ninia…. “If I fink its funny, you’ll find it funny”.

Well, sorting out your costume doesn’t have to be ‘scary’ with a visit to Masquerade, the fancy dress and costume experts, in Earl Stonham, just outside Ipswich.

At Masquerade you can become just about anyone or any character you can think of, from a VooDoo Man, with a black frock coat and matching tie printed with bones, to Stephen King’s frightening clown from IT, Pennywise. This scary killer clown costume is the stuff of nightmares and can be worn with either, a mask and wig or with face paints.

Masquerade have many costumes

available to transform you into your favourite horror film villain, from Annabelle the terrifying porcelain doll, Pinhead from Hellraiser, Freddy Kruegar of A Nightmare on Elm Street fame to the much more fondly known Casper the Friendly Ghost, there really is something for everyone to be found amongst the many costumes on offer.

Clowns, witches, bloody suits, vampires, zombies and much, much more, think of a costume and Masquerade can supply it. Plus,

they also stock a wide range of accessories to complete your outfit, including wigs, masks, face paints etc.

Make sure you look a ‘fright’ this Halloween with a visit to Masquerade.

• For more information visit www.masqueradeshop.co.uk or telephone 01449 711109.

Doggie Howl-o-ween Party

The Good Dogg invite you and your canine companion to join them for their Howl-o-ween Party on throughout the day on Saturday 29th October.

You’re in for a real ‘treat’ with Halloween prizes to be won. Join in the fun with a Spooky Fancy Best Dressed Competition. Dogs love using their noses so the Snuffle for Apples Game is sure to get those tails wagging, and can you find the pumpkin hidden in store?

Fear not, if you can not make the 29th October as The Good Dogg will have plenty of Halloween treats available to buy throughout September and October.

At The Good Dogg is a pet lifestyle store and grooming salon they sell everything for eat, play, sleep, treat, groom, walk and wear, and are fully stocked with a variety of independent brands along with their

own line of beds and toys. The Good Dogg they source all of their products responsibly and try to offer the highest quality products for you and your beloved hound.

The Good Dogg offer 1-1 high quality dog grooming in an in-store purpose built salon where they groom dogs of all breeds, sizes and temperaments. If you have a nervous dog or a new pup they can work with you to introduce them positively into grooming with their calm and tailored approach.

They can also offer advice on nutrition, grooming and wellbeing for your dog, with The Good Dogg in store pet grocer stocking a range of natural grain free dry food and high-quality raw food they can help get your fussy dog on the right track.

With availability in their grooming salon for new customers. You can book a groom in store, call The Good Dogg or use their easy online booking system!

HOWL-O-WEEN

Visit The Good Dogg at 8 Church Street, Woodbridge IP12 1DH

www.thegooddogguk.com

Instagram: the_gooddogguk

Facebook: The Good Dogg

HALLOWEEN TREATS

In Conversation with Stacey Dooley

On the slopes

most recognisable

Stacey Dooley MBE, one of the mostrecognisable faces on British TV, has announced another UK tour following several sell outs.

‘In Conversation with Stacey Dooley’ takes in 15 dates and starts on Saturday 4thFebruary and visits Ipswich on Saturday 25th February.

The ‘Strictly Come Dancing Winner 2018’ heads back on the road to celebrate the publication of her, yet to be released, new book, ‘Are You Really OK? Understanding Britain’s Mental Health Emergency’, which explores the mental health crisis in Britain and its particular impact on young people, inspired by Stacey’s two most recent documentaries on mental health. In the tour show Stacey will open up the conversation about mental health in young people and challenge the stigma and stereotypes around it. Having worked in collaboration with mental health experts and charities, she will responsibly share stories of young people in the UK directly affected by mental health issues. The show will shine a light on life on the mental health frontline and give a voice to young people who are living with mental health conditions across the spectrum.

Stacey will also touch on related, broader topics which she has tackled in her documentaries – poverty, addiction, identity, the pressures of social media – and look back on the stand-out moments and interactions from her wide-reaching career. Join her for what promises to be a thought-provoking, inspiring and informative evening. Audiences will also get a chance to ask Stacey the questions, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Alongside her hugely popular BBC investigative series, in which she covered a diverse range of topics from across the world, the documentary maker and author of the Sunday Times bestseller,On the Frontline with the Women Who Fight Back, is also the presenter of BBC1’sThis Is My House; BBC2’sDNA; Glow Upfor BBC3, and W’sStacey Dooley Sleeps Over.

• In Conversation with Stacey Dooley will be at the Ipswich Corn Exchange on Saturday 25th February 2023. To book tickets at www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/

As we approach the winter snow-sports season it is anticipated to be one of the busiest! With many not heading to the slopes over the last couple of seasons demand is high, which has also pushed up prices.

If you are tied to the school holidays Deben Travel’s top tips would be to look at the week before Christmas or the first week of Easter although with ski conditions variable look out for the higher altitude resorts or those with a glacier for guaranteed skiing.

North America is better value than ever but be mindful of the lift pass prices where a six-day lift pass can cost in excess of £500 in certain resorts.

Beginners could consider more affordable resorts in Bulgaria, Slovenia or Andorra. With lots of ski to your door style accommodation and world class instructors these areas could be the perfect place to learn to ski or board.

Looking for something a little different? Although resorts in Norway and Sweden may not offer the range of skiing of its European neighbours, they overcome this with more wooden chalet style accommodation, cross country trails, snow shoeing, huskies and great opportunities to see the Northern Lights.

At Deben Travel they can pre book tuition, skis / board, boots and lift passes and guide your through all the ski jargon making sure you enjoy your time on the piste!

Whether you are looking for a chalet, apartment, lodge or hotel the team at Deben Travel can guide you through your options. They work with high end ski operators including Carrier and Elegant Resorts, North America specialists Ski Independence, Club Med offer all-inclusive properties whilst Mark Warner are family friendly. Inghams are one of the UKs largest ski operators with a great offering throughout Europe and Worldwide.

Deben Travel’s Director Lee has almost 30 years of skiing knowledge plus experience of working in a ski resort, “We know our stuff.” He said.

Visit Deben Travel at 25 The Thoroughfare, Woodbridge

Call 01394 615620

Click www.debentravel.co.uk

Email team@debentravel.co.uk

GOOD NEIGHBOURS

Rushmere Good Neighbour Scheme, and the local churches, invite you to The Scout Hall, Dumbarton Road, Ipswich, IP4 3JP every third Friday of the month starting from 21st October, from 2pm to 3.30pm. Warm Welcome are opening their doors for this free event to provide a warm safe space, to enjoy free teas and coffees, homemade cakes, and good conversation.

The aim of this new initiative is to encourage people that are lonely or isolated to come out, make new friends and enjoy being part of the Rushmere Community. We assure you of a Warm Welcome!

• For further information please contact Michelle on 07570 093 097 or michelle.msmljones@ntlworld.com

Strictly Ballroom

Baz Luhrmann’s smash hit musical ‘Strictly Ballroom’ is coming to the Regent Theatre, Ipswich from 9th January to 14th January 2023.

This new tour, directed by the fab-ulous Craig Revel Horwood, is set to sweep audiences off their feet once more. Former Strictly Come Dancing champion, Kevin Clifton stars as Scott Hastings and EastEnders star and Strictly Come Dancing finalist, Maisie Smith makes her musical theatre debut in the lead female role of Fran. Kevin and Maisie were previous champions of the Strictly Come Dancing Children in Need Special 2019.

The show is based on the awardwinning, global film phenomenon, ‘Strictly Ballroom’ that inspired the world to dance and spawned the smash hit TV series ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.

Craig Revel Horwoodsays, “I am absolutely delighted to be directing the amazing Kevin Clifton and the sensational Maisie Smith, together with our super talented cast in Strictly Ballroom The Musical - I know that they’ll all be FAB-ULOUS! Expect some sexy moves, sizzling costumes and a simply sensational evening!”

Kevin Cliftonsays, “I’m thrilled to finally be fulfilling my lifelong ambition to play Scott Hastings in Strictly Ballroom The Musical. When I was 10 years old I first watched the movie that would become my favourite film of all time. This is my dream role. I’m beyond excited to be performing with Maisie again – she’s amazing - and can’t wait to don the golden jacket and waltz all over the UK with her in this incredible show!”

Maisie Smithsays, “Dancing in Strictly has been a huge part of my life, and been so much fun. I’m absolutely delighted to be able to continue that journey in Strictly Ballroom The Musical. Not only do I get to make my musical theatre debut with my former partner in crime, Kevin Clifton, but I get to work with Craig Revel Horwood and Jason Gilkisonagain too - I can’t wait!”

Strictly Ballroom The Musical tells the beguiling story of Scott Hastings, a talented, arrogant and rebellious

young ballroom dancer. When Scott’s radical dance moves see him fall out of favour with the Australian Federation, he finds himself dancing with Fran, a beginner with no moves at all. Inspired by one another, this unlikely pair gather the courage to defy both convention and their families – and discover that, to be winners, the steps don’t need to be strictly ballroom…

Featuring a sublime cast of over 20 world class performers, Strictly Ballroom brings to life iconic songs, includingLove is in the Air, Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps and Time After Time with dynamic and joyous verve. The show will also feature some amazing new songs by internationally acclaimed artists including Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect.

This uplifting and courageous musical originated as a stage play that Baz Luhrmann devised with a group of classmates at Sydney’s National Institute of Dramatic Art in 1984. Eight years later he made his screen debut with ‘Strictly Ballroom’. In April 2014 Strictly Ballroom The Musical had its world premiere at the Sydney Lyric Theatre.

This unmissable kaleidoscope of glitz and glamour is a tonic for the soul and your will be toes tapping long after you leave the theatre!

Steve Hackett returns to the UK with hisGenesis Revisited - Foxtrot at Fifty + Hackett Highlightstour in September and October.

The tour will mark the 50th anni versary of the legendary Genesis albumFoxtrot which, in 1972, was pivotal in establishing the band as a major force in British rock.

Hackett also released Genesis Revisited Live: Seconds Out & More the live recording of his 31-date Sold Out 2021 Tour in September CD/ DVD, vinyl 25th November.- the live recording of his 31-date Sold Out 2021 Tour.

Guitarist Hackett joined Genesis in 1971, making his band debut on the Nursery Crymealbum which enjoyed a greater commercial suc cess in Europe than the UK. After extensive touring, the band were encouraged, by audience reactions, to further experiment with ever longer compositions and develop their abil ity to incorporate strong narratives. This, in turn, allowed frontman Peter Gabriel more opportunity to indulge in the theatrics which helped to raise the band’s profile.

The Steve Hackett Genesis Revisited - Foxtrot at Fifty + Hackett Highlights tour also promises more Genesis favourites and highlights from Hackett’s extensive solo catalogue.

The Steve Hackett Genesis Revisited will be at the Ipswich Regent on Tuesday 4th October.

• To book tickets visit www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/

Eastern Angles walk the family path this Christmas!

Think you know the story of Little Red’s journey through the woods to Grandma’s house? Think again. Eastern Angles invite audiences in Ipswich and online to join them forLittle Red.

An energetic retellingof a classic fairytale,Little Red is a family forest walk like none other. Complete with talking sheep, dancing trees and a banjo-playing jazz-singing Mr Wolfie, this fun alternative to the traditional panto will entertain all the family this Christmas.

Eastern Angles Artistic Director Ivan Cutting said, “It’s a cracking show, first created by Theatre Porto and was a smash hit in the North West. We have wanted to create a genuinely family show for ages, but never had the right slot in the year. Giving a rest to our wacky spoof this Christmas gives us the ideal opportunity to try our new path!”

Harvey Robinson, who played Mr Wolfie for Theatre Porto,

will be putting his wolf ears back on for Eastern Angles’ new production. Describing the show he said, “It’s very magical, very funny and the tunes are really addictive… it’s for adults and older kids so it’s a good one for not just little ones as well!”

With energetic music and fun nods to friends from across the fairytale world, Eastern Angles are inviting everyone from the youngest sibling to the oldest grandparent to join

them in theatre or online this Christmas.

Little Redperformances start at the Sir John Mills Theatre (Eastern Angles Centre) in Ipswich from 8th December until 7thJanuary. BSL and livestream performances are also available on selected dates.

• For more information and booking details on all shows head to easternangles. co.uk or phone the Eastern Angles Box Office on 01473 211498.

Two Sisters previews

On Wednesday 5th October 7.30pm Two Sisters Arts Centre have SATELLITES - a new piece of drama written and performed by Natalie Songer based on her search for information about her two GreatUncles during the 1940’s– one of whom was a leading figure in the space programme – the other who perished in a concentration camp.

On Friday 7th at 7.30pm there’s a jazz evening BLIND PASSION featuring singer Katriona Taylor, Peter Hammond on keyboard and Rob Palmer on bass in which she celebrates the music of blind artists such as Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Diane Schuur and José Feliciano.

Friday 14th October 7.30pm there is more drama with the welcome return of Giles Shenton (Three Men In a Boat) with his one man show OLD HERBACEOUS the a story of one man working at the same gardening job on a big country estate for all his working life. He sees the world change from a Victorian age through Edwardian to a modern world in 1970 when the play is set.

Sunday 16th October 7.30pm is an evening of blues with The Blue Note Collective featuring internationally renowned saxophone player Matt Telfer. And on Friday 28th October 7.30pm Two Sisters Arts Centre have a folk evening with singer/ songwriter BLACKSHEEP LAD and performance poet MIKE GARRY

Tickets available from the Box Office 01394 279613 or online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/ two-sisters-arts-centre

Thrilling Season at theRegent & Corn Exchange

Derren Brown, Sarah Millican and brand-new Cher musical feature in a thrilling autumn season at the Regent Theatre and Corn Exchange, Ipswich.

Two of Suffolk’s largest entertainment venues are preparing for a packed autumn season featuring some of the biggest names in comedy, music, TV and theatre.

Since their reopening last year, the Regent Theatre and Corn Exchange in Ipswich have welcomed nearly 200,000 audiences through their doors and the second half of 2022 looks to be just as busy. Variety is the spice of life, and there is something for every taste this autumn.

Don McLeanbrings a brand-new tour to Ipswich in September, celebrating the 50thanniversary of his much-loved American Pie Album. Also celebrating a 50th anniversary is rock stalwart Steve Hackett as he honours 50 years since the legendary Genesis album Foxtrot.

For those after something a little more ‘classical’, the Regent Theatre hoststhe London Symphonic & Philharmonic Film Orchestrawith two special concerts showcasing the music of Harry Potterand The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit. Rock and metal fans can expect hits from Pink Floyd, Metallica, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and more asThe Rock Orchestraperforms a packed set list in stunning, candlelit surroundings.

Music lovers can also expect Bellowhead, Marti Pellow, Will Young, Jools Holland, The Proclaimers,Show of Hands, Boyzlife,Anastacia,Saxonand many more.

Need a laugh? There’s always plenty of top-notch comedy to guarantee an evening of giggles. The autumn season features the Queen of British comedy Dawn French, alongsideAl Murray, Ed Gamble and Jimmy Carr. Award-winning writer and comedianAdam Kayshares brand new stories from his forthcoming book. Star of the Royal Variety Performance and Have I Got News For YouChris McCauslandbrings his new show ‘Speaky Blinder’ to the Corn Exchange.

November sees a fiercely fabulous and brandnew musical take to the Regent Theatre stage. The Cher Showtells the story of Cher’s meteoric rise to fame in a dazzling glitter fest, directed by Arlene Phillips and choreographed by Oti Mabuse. Tickets start from only £15. Looking for something a little different? Multi award-winning master of psychological illusion Derren Brownreturns to Ipswich with his brand new show, and Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick will delight animal lovers of all ages with an evening of love, hope and healing.

Yotam Ottolenghi and Noor Murad, the team behind the Ottolenghi Test Kitchen (OTK) take audiences through their latest cookbook and explore ways in which everyday ingredients can be transformed. Ipswich can also expect another night of endless extravaganza as all 12 queens from Series Three ofRu Paul’s Drag Racebring glittering performances and incredible production values to the stage in October. Family favourites include a very special adventure withPeppa Pigin a live show full of laughter, games and music in September. Rod Campbell’s classic children’s bookDear Santais brought to life at the Corn Exchange in December with Santa and his cheeky Elf!

The season concludes in traditional festive fashion with this year’s spectacular family pantomime,Peter Pan. Ipswich-favourite Mike McClean stars alongside West End legend Darren Day as Captain Hook and Eastenders and Dancing on Ice star Matt Lapinskas.

Cllr Sophie Connelly, Portfolio Holder for Culture at Ipswich Borough Council, says, “We have a great lineup for the autumn season at both The Regent Theatre and at the Corn Exchange in Ipswich. From comedy to cookery and from music to dance we have the full range. All we are missing is you. Look at our website and you will find events of interest to book and you can find out more - oh yes you canabout our panto, Peter Pan.”

Fastlove: A Tribute to George Michael

Fastlove – the show that promises to get the “boom-boom-boom-boom back into your heart” – is coming to Felixstowe.

The production is the UK’s most successful George Michael tribute spectacular – it has toured 21 different countries and has been seen by more than 300,000 concertgoers worldwide. Local music lovers are invited to join an unforgettable evening enjoying all the global superstar’s million-selling hits.

The show’s all-new Everything She Wants tour is now on the road and, according to Canvey Island- based show producer James Taylor, it is “packed with crowd-pleasing anthems”. “They’re all performed impeccably live on stage - from the Wham classics of the new pop revival to the chart-topping success of the Eighties album Faith, plus the awesome tunes of the Nineties and Noughties.

“This is a spellbinding experience you don’t want to miss. You’ll be getting up (to get down) to all your favourite songs.”

The set list includes all of George’s number one hits: ‘Careless Whisper’, ‘Freedom’, ‘Faith’, ‘Father Figure’, ‘Outside’, ‘Jesus to A Child’, and many more - including, of course, the “boom-boom-boom- booming” ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go’.

“Relive the dynamism, passion, flair and the unique sensitivity of George Michael in this incredible concert sensation,” says James.

*Disclaimer: This show is not affiliated with or endorsed by George Michael or his estate.

• FASTLOVE: A Tribute to George Michael will be at the Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe on Saturday 15th October at 7.30pm. To book tickets contact the Box Office om 10394 284962 or online at www.fxspa.co.uk

Derren

Cher Show

Ipswich Hospital receives top Cancer Care Award

Ipswich Hospital has scooped a national award for its commitment to patients living with incurable blood cancer.

The hospital’s haematology team was recently presented with the Myeloma UK Clinical Service Excellence Programme (CSEP) Award in recognition of its outstanding care and dedication to patients with myeloma, an incurable blood cancer which claims the lives of 3,000 people in the UK each year. Staff were praised for their efforts to improve patients’ quality of life and eagerness to adapt and truly listen to their needs.

The accolade, awarded by charity Myeloma UK, recognises hospitals’ commitment to raising the bar for treatment and providing compassionate and personalised care to patients.

Jayne Chappels, Haematology Clinical Nurse Specialist at Ipswich Hospital, said, “The Ipswich Hospital myeloma team are delighted to receive the Myeloma UK CSEP award for clinical excellence. We feel it also acknowledges the teamwork between haematology and the wider hospital services such as the laboratory and research teams, palliative care, orthopaedics, and radiology.

“As a team we aim to provide the best care for our myeloma patients from diagnosis onwards. We are very proud that Myeloma UK has found our services to be of a high standard and that it is acknowledged that our patients are receiving high quality care. All members of the team work exceptionally hard to ensure high levels of care, from consultants, nurse specialists to ward, clinic and day unit staff.”

Myeloma is especially hard to spot as its symptoms are often vague and dismissed as ageing or other minor conditions.

By the time many patients are diagnosed their cancer has often advanced and they require urgent treatment. This can significantly impact their chances of survival and quality of life.

Monica Morris, Clinical Practice Services Senior Projects Officer at Myeloma

UK, said, Myeloma is a complex cancer which can be challenging to manage so we were extremely impressed by the team’s willingness and ability to adapt and offer bespoke care. They always go the extra mile to understand individual patients’ needs and make sure they feel safe when they’re at their most vulnerable.

“For example, patients who need a bone marrow biopsy, a procedure usually carried out by a doctor, can choose to have it done by nurse Jayne Chappels, with whom they feel very comfortable. Not only does the new nurse-led service for bone marrow biopsies provide comfort for nervous patients who benefit from the continuity of care Jayne is able to offer, but it has actually helped to reduce delays.

“Patients can also receive their stem cell transplants directly at Ipswich rather than travel to a larger hospital as is often the case, which allows them to be cared for closer to home and in a familiar setting.”

Tracey Bantoft, from East Ipswich, was in end stage kidney failure “with less than a day to live” when she was rushed to A&E at Ipswich Hospital and diagnosed with myeloma in December 2018. She credits the team at Ipswich for saving her life. “When I got to A&E I was in end stage kidney failure with less than a day to live – that’s what they told me,” said the 52-year-old. “I was in a really bad way, but everyone has been brilliant with me. My care, I would say, has been second to none. I can phone for anything I want to know and they answer any question I have. All the nurses in the day unit know me by name.”

Tracey started suffering from pin and needles in her hands and up to her elbows in March 2018. When she became unable to move her arm she consulted her GP and was diagnosed with carpal tunnel and frozen shoulder.

She saw a physio for her shoulder, which helped to some extent. But despite undergoing two carpal tunnel surgeries privately in November, her symptoms only worsened.

Eventually a doctor at her GP practice ordered a blood test. That night Tracey received an urgent phone call telling her to go to A&E as soon as possible. By the time she was diagnosed with myeloma, Tracey, then 48, had holes in her ribs, hip cradle and left arm. She spent Christmas and New Year in hospital. Unfortunately, she didn’t respond to treatment as well as she’d hoped and relapsed twice in quick succession.

She started her third round of treatment in September 2020 and has been in remission ever since.

“I didn’t think I would still be here now to tell you the truth,” she added. “I am so fortunate to have this team and to live so close to the hospital.”

n The team at Ipswich Hospital showing its Myeloma UK award

n Tracey Bantoft with her partner Guy

inlaterlife

Eastenders actress and Strictly Come Dancing 2021 champion, Rose Ayling-Ellis has helped to unveil the very first Barbie doll with behind-the-ear hearing aids.

Following this hugely positive step for those within the deaf and hearing loss communities, Audiologist Katie Ogden, Training Manager of hearing aid provider ReSoundNorth-West Europe, gives her expert advice on what to expect from new hearing aids, alongside tips on how those new to the devices can adjust to life wearing them:

What should you expect?

Hearing aids can open up wearers to a world of sound they’ve previously been missing, and providea fulfilling hearing experience that benefits their life physically, mentally and socially.

It’s important to be prepared for an adjustment period, because the minute you start wearing your new hearing aids, you are effectively learning how to hear again.

At first, sounds may appear too loud, things can sound different and you might even feel really tired, due to your brain having to process sounds and stimuli that it hasn’t received for a period of

time. The key is to be patient, hearing aids really are life-changing.

Adjusting to wearing new hearing aids

Take breaks

It’s important to introduce your hearing aids slowly and take regular breaks, because it can become overwhelming, especially when hearing aids flood your ears with sounds you weren’t hearing before. Start by wearing them for a few hours a day at first, and then slowly increase the number of hours you wear them.

Start in a quiet area

The best way to get yourself used to your new hearing aids is by wearing them in a quiet space that you feel comfortable in, such as your own home. This will help you to get reacquainted to familiar noises, and identify sounds you haven’t heard for a while, like the newspaper rustling when you turn the page, or even your own or loved ones’ voices sounding different.

Read aloud to yourself

Hearing yourself speak may seem strange to you at first when wearing hearing aids, so it’s important to get yourself used to the sound of your own voice again and in some cases train yourself to speak at an appropriate volume. A good way to do this is by reading aloud to yourself.

Practice locating sounds

Cremated remains... what next?

We are very lucky to work with some excellent crematoria and their professional staff, who treat every loved one with whom they deal with dignity and great care. They make sure that, after the cremation, the remains are very carefully gathered together and placed in a receptacle to await collection.

Sometimes families will pre-arrange for the remains to be scattered or interred at the crematorium itself, in which case the crematorium staff will do exactly that, in a dignified and respectful manner. But many families request that their loved one’s cremated remains are picked up by our staff and returned to the branch office from which the service was arranged.

At the branch, all cremated remains are moved into the Sanctuary, our designated area specifically reserved for their respectful and safe storage. The branch staff will then contact the family, or next of kin, and inform them that their loved one is ready to be picked up at their convenience.

We understand that for a great many people, picking up the ashes of their loved one can be challenging. We’re more than happy to look after their loved one’s until they’re ready; however, we do recommend that they don’t leave it too long.

Once a family picks up the cremated remains, or gives instructions, there are lots of options, including interment, scattering, disposal at sea, launching in a firework and a range of keepsakes, from containers and paperweights for ashes, to stunning jewellery.

• If you have any further questions then please take the time to explore our website, or talk to your local branch –

www.hunnaball.co.uk

When starting out wearing hearing aids, you’ll be able to hear a variety of different sounds you couldn’t before, so it’s important to learn how to locate which direction they are coming from. You can do this by sitting somewhere busy like a morning train, or a bench in the city centre and trying to listen to someone’s conversation close by or a dog barking, to focus on where each specific sound is coming from.

Watch TV with subtitles

Listening to the sound of words at the same time as reading them is a good way to train your brain to connect the words to the sound your ears are hearing. An enjoyable and easy way to do this is by watching a TV programme or film you like with the subtitles on, so you can help to train your brain, then once you’re comfortable, you should be able to turn the subtitles off.

Adjust to more challenging environments

Once you’re used to sounds at home and the familiar voices of family and friends, you can start wearing your hearing aids in more challenging environments. This can be anything from work, social events, shopping on the street, or even by visiting restaurants, to help adjust your ears to different environments and filter out unnecessary background noise.

www.resound.com/en-gb/hearing-aids

We’re often asked about what happens to cremated remains following a funeral service.

Start living the future you planned for…

Escape from the maddening crowds and stresses of everyday living and start living the lifestyle for you. With a huge choice of beautifully appointed park homes, we will have one to suit all your requirements.

With a range of services available from our superb Bespoke design your own home service to our Market Leading 100% current value part exchange with NO AGENT FEES to pay, choosing our parks is the easy part.

Kurling morning surprise guest

Ipswich MP, Tom Hunt, visited the Ipswich Oddfellows for a game of Kurling and to find out more about Oddfellows.

Branch chairman, Teresa Marrable, and secretary, Lynne Wyatt explained how the Ipswich branch is part of one of the largest friendly societies in the UK, with over 450 members locally. Through friendship and social events, they help members get more enjoyment out of life, and offer care, advice and support in times of need.

Teresa said, “It was good to see Tom and have a chat but members think he will need to come again, to get a little more practice with the Kurling, and next time he could also try his hand at Boccia!”

Retirement Rebel - Finding myself through adventure is a truly inspiring story of adventure and ageing written by Siobhan Daniels.

Approaching retirement and frustrated with her job, Siobhan Daniels made a BIG decision: to start living life on her own terms. Rather than hiding from life’s challenges, she bought a motorhome and drove off to find them.

Retirement Rebel is Siobhan’s honest and uplifting story of how one woman stepped off the merry-go-round of life, slowed down and started enjoying the journey. Of how she sold up, packed up and hit the roads of the UK with no real plan, embarking on a positive-ageing adventure and hoping to inspire women across the country with her message that retirement could actually be the start of life’s adventures.

With no shortage of mishaps and hardships along the way –not least being commanded to ‘stay at home’ during the Covid lockdowns, despite always being at home wherever she was –Siobhan’s story can inspire us all. Her message is that we can make simple lifestyle changes to feel happier and more fulfilled. Because at the end of the day, age shouldn’t be a barrier to having an adventure.

Tom Hunt said, “Social organisations like the Oddfellows have a real sense of community. Throughout the pandemic, I have been amazed at how the Branch kept in touch and offered a huge amount of value to so many members. For me what is most striking about the Oddfellows is that it is a society which is very much about the people.

“Visiting the Branch recently I was struck by it’s ethos; to forge friendships and help each other in any times of need. Through your brilliant social events like curling, quizzes and even cruises, the Oddfellows continues to show the real value in company andgetting to know new people. The connections created by your members offer someone to turn to through the ups and downs of life. The importance of organisations like the Oddfellows cannot be underestimated and it was a real delight to come and visit. I look forward to meeting many of your members again soon.”.

Member Nadia Cenci who accompanied Tom said, “Oddfellows has been a godsend to my stepdad after the death of my mum. I started taking him to the Thursday morning sessions to get him out of the house and meet people and ended up joining myself because I could see the benefits. There are so many fun things to do that there’s bound to be something enjoyable for all and we have such laughs together. I champion the organisation with anyone that I feel would benefit. Recently I have also received help and support because of my stepdad’s ill health through wider membership benefits. Priceless friendship and support all in a small yearly amount. I was pleased to accompany Tom so that he could also see what I see for the people of Ipswich”

Kurling and Boccia sessions are every Thursday at 10am at 37 High Street Ipswich. All welcome. £2.50 per session. Refreshments are included.

Membership from £25 per year. For free information pack please contact Lynne 01473 251867 or email lynne.wyatt@oddfellows.co.uk

forLooking friendshipalocal group?

Siobhan Daniels is a retired television and radio journalist who worked for the BBC for thirty years. In 2019, after selling most of her possessions and putting her old life into storage, she hit the road in her new motorhome to begin a retirement less ordinary, travelling the country defying stereotypes and spreading a positiveageing message. As well as working for the BBC, she has written for or been featured in a variety of magazines and newspapers, including The Guardian, Daily Telegraph and Yorkshire Life, and she gives talks to Women’s Institute groups. Siobhan lives wherever she parks her motorhome. Find out more at shuvonshuvoff.co.uk

Retirement Rebel by Siobhan Daniels is available at all good bookshops.

OddfellowsIpswich

Sohal Healthcare fully appreciates the dire current financial climate and the severe impact it is having on everyone, and an obvious consideration is when contemplating placing a loved one into private residential care. So this is why we have decided to do our part by offering a 12-month placement for the price of 11 – a huge financial saving.

Sohal Healthcare are a family-owned company, that have been providing care for the elderly and for those living with dementia for over 20 years. Their cultural values are very much based upon the concept of offering a ‘home from home’ environment, to minimise the stress and anxiety that comes from having to place a loved one into the hands of a care home and the obvious levels of uncertainty that this can have upon family members.

Their vision is for residents to treat the home just as their own, where friends and family can visit anytime, and always made to feel welcome. To decide for themselves daily what they would like to do and to be supported to do so in all aspects from care to social activities. In every way they are looked after by a dedicated team, from care assistants to a skilled creative activities coordinator.

Sohal Healthcare exists to be recognised as being “The Care Home of Choice” when having to make that agonising placement decision, from being warm, welcoming, and approachable, to regularly communicating with family members as to the wellbeing of their loved ones. “At Sohal, we listen, we learn, and we evolve, we are a family that cares for and supports the elderly members of your family”

We are hiring

Care Assistants (Nights & Days)

Salary: £10.25 per hour

Supporting people with personal care such as washing, personal hygiene, dressing and assisting with meals.

Completing current and appropriate documentation which includes daily record keeping, charts and care plans.

What we are looking for from you:

Experience in a care environment either in a care home, as a home care worker or caring for a loved one would be ideal, however if you have a caring and kind approach and the desire to work in elderly care - we would love to hear from you.

Senior Care Assistants (Nights)

Salary: £11.25 per hour

The role will include ordering administering medication, liaising regularly with visiting professionals, medical services and service user’s families. You will be leading a team of care assistants and will be expected to set an example in supporting people with personal care such as washing, personal hygiene, dressing and assisting with meals. Completing current and appropriate documentation which includes daily record keeping, charts and care plans.

What we are looking for from you:

Experience as a Care Assistant is essential for this role.

Experience as a Senior Care Assistant is spreferred, but not essential as full training for the role will be given. The successful applicant will have an NVQ Level 2 in Health and Social Care (or equivalent) and will be working to work towards achieving their Level 3 award.

What’s your retired personality type?

n Retirees fall into one of five main personality types, with being a ‘short break Steve’ most common. Research of 1,000 adults who have retired in the last 10 years revealed 30 per cent like to make the most of the opportunity to explore other cities and countries. Almost three in 10 identified as a ‘care-a-lot Carol’, loving nothing more than looking after the grandkids, pets or even neighbours’ plants. A further quarter saw themselves as a ‘green-fingered Gary’, a gardening enthusiast who keeps their lawn in pristine condition all year round. While 17 per cent of adults fall into the ‘active Annie’ category, due to their love for fitness. And 23 per cent identify as a ‘foodie Frankie’, adults who will engineer any excuse to have lunch out with friends.

Regardless of their personality traits, 29 per cent claimed to live a more active life since retirement than they did while working with little time left for prepping meals.

Many retirees can’t cook from scratch - A spokesman from food delivery brand Parsley Box, which commissioned the research as part of their ‘bringing you more time for the things you love’ campaign, said, “We’re all different and that’s what makes life, and retirement, fun.

“The research in our eyes puts the conversation beyond doubt that the years following deciding to retire can be some of the most interesting and fulfilling of your life.

“And with so many plans in place, it can often be difficult to fit everything in, with the research highlighting how many opt against much cooking from scratch to their busy lifestyle.”

Due to such full calendars and varied plans, 49 per cent find themselves unable to find the time to cook meals from scratch on a regular basis. While a third said they rarely cook from scratch at all, preferring other options such as eating out, or delivered meals to fill the void. And interestingly, 18 per cent do not ever cook from scratch at all.

A desire to enjoy quality food sees more than a quarter (26 per cent) eating out weekly or more, with a further one in six making a fortnightly trip to explore new dishes. According to 78 per cent, quality food is important to their current lifestyle, with retirement bringing more opportunity to sample the best dishes on offer.

It also emerged 56 per cent believe keeping active is the key to retirement and 37 per cent reckon it’s essential to try new things to keep their later years interesting. While 76 per cent think the perception of retirement has completely changed in the last 20 years, with age no longer seen as a barrier to doing things, leaving older people more active than ever before. While 54 per cent cite older adults now having grown up in a more modern age as the reason for the shift.

One retiree who would fall into the ‘active Annie’ category is 74-year-old Rajinder Singh, better known as the ‘Skipping Sikh’.

Singh was awarded an MBE for raising £15,000 for the NHS following a series of viral videos during the initial Covid lockdowns, and now teaches skipping and hula hoop to school children.

Rajinder Singh, speaking as part of the Parsley Box campaign, added, “I love cycling, running, walking, meeting people - that’s my hobby. “I’m running this October for charity, and I’m doing it because it makes me happy; if you are fit, you can go and help others.”

Have you got time to Be A Friend?

This winter it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom… at Communities Together East Anglia they know that it’s not just paying the bills which can make you anxious but also feeling isolated and lonely as the nights draw in…

What better way to ease in to the autumn and winter season than by becoming a BeAFriend volunteer for them. Having a lovely telephone conversation to look forward to, a meet up for a coffee and chat, writing a letter or digitally connecting to your new friend, can bring a sense of purpose and a welcome distraction from negative thinking.

Communities Together East Anglia’s clients are generally 65+ and are looking for someone be their friend. The service ensures that they match people to their interests and location however, you can be located anywhere if you simply want to call and have a natter.

Training is provided and ongoing support and they’ll fit into whatever you feel you can manage – it is very rewarding and demonstrates community awareness and engagement. It can be a journey of discovery about yourself and your purpose in life which may lead to informed career choices and greater experiences.

Those who already volunteer are surprised at how little time is required to make a difference. You may be a mum, a college attendee, part-time worker, retired or just have a bit of time to create change. It doesn’t have to be a major commitment but can be hugely life-changing.

In addition to BeAFriend Communities Together East Anglia also support individuals with community transport, have a rickshaw riding service in Stowmarket, have a programme of community activity and engagement events for people aged 65+ and family carers and support older people to get online.

• Contact them at volunteering@communitiestogether-ea.org or visit www.communitiestogethereastanglia.org or call for a chat on 01449 707030.

3. Green-fingered Gary

Retirement Blues

It takes just over a year for boredom to set in for retirees, a study has found.

Getting used to life with no set routine, a huge amount of spare time and staying at home with their partner every day gets too much for some.

One in 10 admitted to being bored of retirement and itching for something to do after just five months away from work.

Research of 1,000 retirees aged 45 and over, commissioned by National Citizen Service (NCS), revealed the reality of retirement, with many describing it as ‘boring’, ‘lonely’ and ‘quiet’. A further 27 per cent said retirement has left them with more spare time than they anticipated.

Due to this, over two thirds believe if they were to work part-time they would have more of a sense of purpose.

Tony Hannan, workforce develop ment manager at NCS Trust said, “As our young people gain confi dence, skills for life and give back to their local communities, we see the life-changing impact the programme has on both the NCSers and the team who support them to discover who they are and what they can do.

The research also revealed nearly one third of retirees would now con sider working part-time, with 40 per cent saying the reason for this would be to meet more people.

However, if they were to go back to the world of work, the majority of Brits would like to do something com pletely separate to their previous job and one quarter would want to learn a new skill. A further four in 10 would consider working part-time in order to get out of the house and 30 per cent want to help others. Workplace banter and the company of employ ees were revealed as things retirees miss most about full time work.

NCS lead Chris Tolley, 54, a retired senior detective at Metropolitan Police, said, “Having retired after 30 years in the police, I wanted to put the skills and experience I’d gained throughout my career to good use by using my free time to continue giving back to my community.

“Police officers and other public servants tend to retire earlier than others, and it can be a shock to the system.

“I now lead NCS programmes, work ing with young adults to help them achieve their full potential and find success.

“It’s important to keep mental stimu lation going and putting our skills to use in a different way – and there is nothing more satisfying than feeling you have benefited young adults and encouraged cohesion, mobility and engagement for society as a whole.”

www.ncsyes.co.uk

Tips on getting online

with GLORIA HUNNIFORD

Nearly half of over 65s are ‘uncomfortable’ using the internet –and would rather do the weekly food shop, pop to the bank and book a holiday with a travel agent in-person.

A poll of 1,987 adults aged 65 and over revealed 45 per cent don’t feel completely confident when using the internet. As a result, 40 per cent of those would rather run errands face-to-face than online. But this leaves them worried they are ‘missing out’ on all the internet has to offer and the money it could save them.

It also emerged 42 per cent of older people who have reservations about going online feel forgotten in a ‘digital first’ world.

The study was commissioned by Vodafone UK Foundation, which has teamed up with consumer champion, Gloria Hunniford, and national charity, Independent Age, to launch ‘Hi Digital’– a programme designed to help the over 65s develop their digital skills, save money and feel more connected.

Gloria Hunniford commented, “At long last, I feel incredibly lucky I’m relatively comfortable online – but I absolutely understand older people’s concerns.

“There are so many benefits to taking the plunge – from making financial savings, which are so vital at the moment, to keeping in touch with loved ones and feeling less isolated.”

Of those who believe they’d benefit from learning online skills, 41 per cent feel they’ve been held back from doing so because they didn’t know where to look for help according to the OnePoll study.

It also emerged 54 per cent of those who have expressed doubt about fully embracing the digital world said it was due to concerns about scamming and online security. Others worry about not knowing how to fix something if it goes wrong and finding the pace at which the digital world changes too hard to keep up with. Currently, only 26 per cent feel very comfortable claiming benefits digitally, and just 45 per cent could confidently book a doctor’s appointment or order a prescription online.

Nicki Lyons, UK corporate affairs and sustainability director at Vodafone UK Foundation, added, “Our everyone.connected campaign is helping people access the connectivity, devices and skills they need to live life to the full. “We understand why many older people aren’t comfortable online and wanted to create a programme especially for them.

“We hope to reach 50,000 older people and give them the confidence to unlock financial savings and feel more connected to their loved ones.”

Gloria Hunniford’s Top 5 tips for getting online

1. Be patient and take your time: don’t expect to feel comfortable and good at it right away.

2. Get help from a person or organisation you trust if you’re unsure how to get started.

3. Work through the helpful Hi Digital modules to give you a good starting point to feeling more comfortable surfing the internet and keeping safe online.

4. Be aware of online scams and fraud, but don’t let this deter you exploring the benefits of being online.

5. If in doubt, shout it out - there are many trusted organisations out there with people to can help you with your concerns about your online safety.

David Button

Independent Funeral Directors

At David Button Funeral Directors, we make sure your loved one’s final farewell is as perfect as possible. You will see the same member of staff who will guide you every step of the way and if you can’t come to us, we will come to you.

A traditional inclusive cremation at Seven Hills or Ipswich Crematorium £3,225. Our fees are available to view on our website. Pre-paid funeral plans are also available.

Every Monday

Suffolk Carers Natter: A chance for family carers aged 55+ to come along and enjoy some “you” time, The Unity Centre, Meredith Road, Ipswich, 10am-12noon. 01449 707030

Woodbridge Citizen’s Advice, Woodbridge Library, 10am-noon. Independent and provides free, confidential and impartial advice Tea Dance. 2-4 pm, at Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich. 01473 422427.

Every Tuesday

Carpet Bowls at Martlesham Community Hall, Felixstowe Rd, 1.30-4pm. £2 per session (first 2 free) inc. tea and biscuits. Contact Sheila 01473 636608 – or just turn up!!!

Memory Lane Cafe, The Meeting Place, Limerick Close Ipswich IP1 5LR 11-2pm. For people living with dementia and their carers. Contact Tina on 07742 300293

Charity Bingo Night, Woodbridge Community Hall, Station Rd, Woodbridge, 7.45pm9.45pm. More information call 01728 660766

Craft Group. The Salvation Army, Queensway 10-12noon. £1.50. Refreshments & lunch available at extra cost. Call 01473 710721

Co op Senior Singers, friendly group. No audition required. 10.00-11.30am at the West Suffolk College, formerly the Co-op Education Centre, Fore Street, Ipswich. Contact Vera on 01473 879817.

Arts & Crafts Group, Castlehill Community Centre, 1.30-3.30pm. Everyone welcome, £2 per session. Info on 07951 779271

Every Wednesday

Lunch Club, The Salvation Army, Queens Way 12.30. Main course, dessert and cup of tea £5. Everyone welcome. Please call 01473 710721 to book in advance.

Anyone for Bridge? Woodbridge Library 3.455.15pm, £2 per person to cover room hire Community Cuppa. Social group for over 65’s. The Meeting Place, Limerick Close, Ipswich, 2-4pm. (Every 3rd Wednesday).

Every Thursday

Co op Senior Singers. Come and join a friendly group who sing a wide variety of songs for pleasure and friendship. No auditions required. All welcome aged 55 plus. We meet from 10-11.30am, during term time, at the West Suffolk College, formerly known as the Co-op Education Centre, Fore Street, Ipswich. Parking at the rear. For info call Vera Manning on 01473 879817.

Kurling and Boccia. Ipswich Oddfellows, 37 High St Ipswich, 10am Bingo Club, Dumbarton Road Hall, 2-4pm, entrance fee £1. Info: Chris on 01473 404190

Every Friday

Art for fun, The Salvation Army, Queens Way 10-12noon. £2.50 per session. Refreshments and lunch available at extra cost. Everyone welcome. Info call 01473 710721

Chess Club at Woodbridge Library, 4.30pm. Contact library for further info

Knitting Group, Woodbridge Library, 2pm4pm. For all types of knitters

Short Mat Bowls, Pinewood Community Centre, Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich, 10am-12pm. Contact 07785 236726 or 07808 628945

Every Saturday

HMS Ganges Museum, Shotley. 1000s of artefacts, open 11am-5pm (from Easter until end of October). Free parking & entry. www.hmsgangesmuseum.com

Every Sunday

Parham Airfield Museum, 11am-5pm, free admission & parking, WW2 artefacts, unique museum about Britain’s secret resistance army with replica, underground bunker, new exhibition hall, tea room and picnic area. www.parhamairfieldmuseum.co.uk

Car Boot, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Rd, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

HMS Ganges Museum, Shotley. 1000s of artefacts, open 11am-5pm (from Easter until end of October). Free parking & entry. www.hmsgangesmuseum.com

R.A.F. Martlesham Heath Control Tower Museum. Explore the fascinating history of an airfield that went from 1917 through two World Wars and txo the Jet Age. Open 3rd April-27th Oct, 2-4.30pm. Located behind Parkers Place, off Eagle Way, Martlesham Heath IP5 3UZ

Mannings Weekend Market, Mannings, Felixstowe Seafront, 9-5pm.

Ipswich Transport Museum Old Trolley Bus Depot, Cobham Rd, Ipswich open 11am until 4pm Large collection of vehicles, manufactured and/or operated, in Ipswich and the Ipswich Engineering Collection. Also extensive collection of transport and engineering memorabilia. Tea room, gift shop. For info 01473 715666 or www. ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk

Fri 30th Sept to Sun 2nd Oct

Barnfest Country Music Festival, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns. co.uk or call 01449 711111

Sat 1st Oct

Megamatch Darts Tournament, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

Voices in Celebration! Suffolk Constabulary Male Voice Choir and Love to Sing Choir at Community Hall, Station Rd, Woodbridge, 7.30pm. Tickets £10, 07934 169721

Sun 2nd Oct

Stonham Car Boot, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

Wed 5th Oct

Talk: The History and Restoration of Church Organs, Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Rd, Ipswich, 7.30pm. More info 01473 274300

Fri 7th Oct

Talk: The story behind the German Messerchmitt. MHAS meeting, Martlesham Heath Community Centre Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Heath, 7.30pm

Sat 8th Oct

Live Music: Simply Jackson, Michael Jackson Tribute. Licensed bar, cooked food 7-9pm, £3 Members, £6 Non-members. Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Road, Ipswich, IP1 4AB, 8-11pm.

Table Top Sale, raffle, cakes, free entry, St Matthews Church, Ipswich, 9am-noon, iao FIND and drop-in shop

Sun 9th Oct

Stonham Car Boot, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

Tues 11th Oct

Talk: Beach Bonkers, Kate Osborne, Landguard Ranger. Old Felixstowe Community Centre, Ferry Rd, Felixstowe, 7pm

Wed 12th Oct

Talk: The Crystal Palace and The Great 1851 Exhibition at Broadway House, Orwell Road, Felixstowe IP11 7DD, 7.30pm. For full details, visit felixstowefhs.onesuffolk.net

Talk: Emergency Calls and Listener Calls, organised by OWLS (Older, Wiser, Lively, Seniors). Presented by Rachel Sloane. St Raphael Hall, Ipswich, 1.45pm. Call 01449 737107 for more information.

Thurs 13th Oct

Bike Nights, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. Call 01449 711111 or www.stonhambarns.co.uk

Murder Mystery. At The Hold, 7-10pm. Put your sleuthing skills to the test as a murder is announced. Tickets £5/£4 Cons, booked in advance, includes welcome drink. 18 years and older. www.suffolkarchives.co.uk

Ipswich RSPB Group Indoor Meeting. ‘Mighty Eagles, Raptor Migration in Batumi, Georgia’. Talk by Chris Courtney, Rushmere St Andrew Church Hall, The Street, Rushmere. 7.30pm. Contact 07887 770942. All welcome.

Fri 14th Oct

Live Music: Tim Staff, Country & Western. Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Rd, Ipswich, 8-11pm.

Sat 15th Oct

Charity Concert, Suffolk Singers, Woodbride Community Hall, 7.30pm, Tickets from www.WeGotTickets.com or 01394 279907

Quiz Night. Kirton Church Hall, 7pm. Tickets must be booked in advance at £7 each (tables upto 6). Please contact Debbie Doggett on 01394 448415 or email wa@sandlings.co.uk

Sun 16th Oct

Stonham Car Boot, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

Copdock Medals & Militaria Fair. Copdock Community Hall, Old London Rd, Copdock IP8 3JD. 9,30am-2pm, admission £3, U16s Free. Quality dealers from Waterloo to WWII. More info 07733 474905 or 07810 311977

Craft Fair, Whatfield Village Hall, 10-4pm. Wide variety of stalls, raffle, refeshments. Talk: History of RAF Tibenham and the Kassel Raid. Ipswich Citadel, Salvation Army, 558 Woodbridge Rd, Ipswich, 7.30pm. By Ipswich & District Historical Transport Soc. Adm £2.50, non-members £4, all welcome

Tues 18th Oct

Ipswich RSPB Local Group Midweek Walk around Bourne Park area Ipswich. Meet at 10.30am at Stoke Park Drive car park. Map ref TM152419. Approx 2 hrs. Contact 01473 258791. All welcome.

Wed 19th Oct

Community Cuppa. Social group for over 65’s. enjoy a cuppa and chat and find out how the Later Life Community Team can help

you or your community. The Meeting Place, Limerick Close, Ipswich, 2-4pm. (Every third Wednesday). More info from Tracey 01284 334516

Fri 21st Oct

A Warm Welcome at The Scout Hut, Dumbarton Road Ipswich IP4 3JP. You are invited to join us every 3rd Friday between 2-3.30pm. Teas, coffee, home made cake and good conversation is on offer for free. If you need any further information please contact Michelle Jones 07570 093097

Sat 22nd Oct

The Glamstastics, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

Coffee Morning, 10am-12 noon St Mary’s Church Room, Bramford. Bacon rolls, hot dogs, scones, sausage rolls etc. Sale of books, jigsaws, DVDs and more. iao church maintenance

Model Railway Exhibition, Trimley Memorial Hall, High Rd, Trimley St Martin IP11 0RJ, 10-4pm. Adult £4, child £2, U5s free. Lots of layouts, stands and refreshments. Disabled access and free parking. Info 01394 284398

Songs for the Earth Concert, Museum St Methodist Church, Black Horse Lane, Ipswich, 7pm. An evening of music and words featuring The Orwell Singers. Info 07768 911512

Arts & Crafts Fair, Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton, 10am-3pm

Sun 23rd Oct

Early Christmas Craft, Art & Gift Fayre Northgate Sports Centre, Sidegate Lane West, Ipswich. Over 60 stalls selling locally made arts & crafts. 10am-4pm, £1 admission. Stonham Car Boot, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

Thurs 27th Oct

Bike Nights, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

Fri 28th Oct

Family History drop-in session with Felixstowe Family History Society, Broadway House, Orwell Road, Felixstowe IP11 7DD, 10.15am-noon. For full details, visit felixstowefhs.onesuffolk.net

Live Music: Kevin Barry, Country & Western. Licensed bar, cooked food 7-9pm, £5 Members, £6 Non-members. Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Road, Ipswich, IP1 4AB, 8-11pm.

Sat 29th Oct

Saxon & Viking Festival, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns. co.uk or call 01449 711111

Halloween Disco, Fancy Dress with prizes. Licensed bar, cooked food 7-9pm, £2 Adults, Children FREE. Rosary Conservative Club, Bramford Road, Ipswich, IP1 4AB, 7-11pm.

Sun 30th Oct

Stonham Car Boot, Stonham Barns Park, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT. More info go to www.stonhambarns.co.uk or call 01449 711111

*Submissions listed subject to space availability. –No responsibility can be accepted for cancellation of events, if in doubt contact the event organiser before travelling.

Best Before Dates Scrapped

Store vegetables in water

For lovers of crunchy salads, precut carrot and celery sticks placed into a glass jar filled with cold water will keep in your fridge for weeks without becoming soggy or limp.

Supermarket chain ASDA has made the decision toscrap best before dateson hundreds of its fruit and vegetable products in a bid to reduce food waste and help households across the UK likely to be struggling with the ongoing cost of living crisis. The change, that came into effect in September, after reports from the Waste Resource Action Programme (WRAP) found the average British household throws away £60 worth of perfectly edible food and drink each month.

Below, Brean Horne, a personal finance expert at NerdWallet UK, outlines some of the ways shoppers can ensure they reduce the amount of food waste, as well as tips on ways to prepare any fresh produce to prolong the shelf life: Understand how best to extend the quality of your favourite items

There are many ways to keep some of your favourite fruit and vegetables fresh. And although they may seem a little unorthodox, these tried and tested methods can help prolong the shelf life of goods for days and even weeks.

- Bananasproduce a type of gas called ethylene which essentially causes it to ripen itself. So storing them on a hook where there is greater air circulation will help to lower the amount of ethylene in one area, and reduce how quickly both they and other fruits in your fruit bowl ripen.

- Mushroomscan be notorious for turning slimy after a matter of days, just removing them from the container, wrapping them in paper towels and in a plastic or paper bag can help prolong their desired texture ahead of consumption.

- Fresh garlic should not be refrigerated as it will only last a few weeks, as opposed to months in a cool, dry kitchen cupboard.

Many avocado fans often find a leftover half turns brown too quickly, and water storage can also work to prolong their freshness. Submerge any leftovers into a large glass, and cover with cold water. This should pause further ripening and keep the item as fresh as when you cut it for up to 72 hours.

Use vinegar to keep soft berries fresh

Already a hugely popular and cost-effective alternative to many cleaning products, vinegar can also work wonders when it comes to keeping soft berries longer.

In order to avoid compromising on the flavour of the berries, the most commonly recommended method of the vinegar bath is to mix 1 cup of vinegar with 3 cups of water in a large bowl. Then submerge the berries before draining and rinsing under cold water to extend their ripeness for days or even weeks.

Don’t store potatoes and onions together

Despite complimenting each other perfectly in endless amounts of recipes, did you know that potatoes and onions are true enemies when it comes to storage options and should always be kept apart in cupboards and vegetable drawers?

Like bananas, onions also emit ethylene gas, which potatoes are sensitive to. As well as this, both potatoes and onions release

moisture, which can lead to faster spoiling when sat side by side. In order to keep both potatoes and onions fresh for as long as possible, store them separately in a dry and cool area that boasts good air flow.

Remove cheese from plastic wrappers

Cheese is a living thing that has the ability to age, breathe and even sweat. As a result of this, when stored in wrapped plastic, it can no longer take in oxygen, and suffocates, which can result in a compromised flavour and - in some cases - causes harmful bacteria to grow.

To avoid your favourite Cheddar, Parmesan or Red Leicester going off before you’ve had time to use the block in its entirety, simply wrap in a piece of baking paper around 3 times the size of the cheese, before storing in the fridge.

Swap fresh for tinned or frozen goods where possible

Despite the common belief among consumers that ‘fresh is best’, the

more cost-effective tinned or frozen alternatives are often just as healthy, with the same quantity of fruit and vegetables counting towards your much-needed ‘five a day’.

As well as the financial benefit of frozen and tinned items costing less than fresh (especially when purchased out of season), making the swap will also mean the risk of wastage is significantly reduced, as the items can be kept for months, or even years, without going off.

Check the temperature of your fridge

Theoretically it might make sense that a colder fridge would keep produce fresher for longer, but this is certainly not the case. A fridge temperature of 37 degrees Fahrenheit will keep your items fresh for as long as possible, with no ice crystals able to form, or bacteria able to breed on raw meats.

www.nerdwallet.com/uk/ credit-cards/

WIN: New Book

The TREE in my GARDEN

In RHS The Tree in My Garden, award-winning wildlife author and RHS Ambassador Kate Bradbury reveals the amazing effect planting just one tree in your garden can have – and dares to imagine what would happen if every gardener up and down the country did the same.

Combining practical gardening advice, stunning illustrations, fascinating scientific research, reflections on the cultural importance of different species and evocative accounts of how vital trees are for countless forms of wildlife, RHS The Tree in My Gardenwill leave readers in no doubt that every garden needs a tree.

To help you make the best choice for your own garden, or to learn more about the trees around you, this book features a compendium of 50 key species, including those that produce berries, fruits and blossom, each one beautifully depicted by French Illustrator Lucille Clerc and packed with information about each tree’s appearance, care needs and the wildlife each supports.

Highlighting the urgent need for trees to be planted to help save the planet, Kate stresses that rather than feeling hopeless, gardeners can join together and help make a difference. “If everyone of us planted a tree in our gardens tomorrow, that would be 22 million more trees in the UK, each one absorbing carbon dioxide while providing food and homes for wildlife, not to mention giving us something nice to look at.”

Kate also provides a personal insight into the trees she has planted in her own garden which have provided inspiration for the book, including“a gorgeous rowan” (Sorbus aucuparia), a Midland hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata) and a silver birch (Betula pendula), explaining she fell in love with the

trees as soon as she planted them, and her love for them continues to grow, as they grow.

She says “A tree is a remarkable thing. From root to branch, through the seasonal cycles of blossom

and fruit, to the glorious displays of deciduous autumn colour, a single tree can transform a garden and captivate us year after year… so plant a tree, watch it grow and become part of something bigger!”

— COMPETITION —

Ipswich24 has got a copy of The Tree in my Garden to give away to one lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize just send your answer to the following question, along with your name, address and a day time contact telephone number to: Tree Book Competition, Ipswich24, 12A Britannia Road, Ipswich, IP4 4PE or you can enter online at www.ipswich24.co.uk The closing date for entries is Friday 28th October 2022.

Q. What nationality is the illustrator of the book, Lucille Clerc?

Real Fire Switch = RISKS

Three out of five residents who plan to enjoy real fires this autumn may be putting their properties at risk. Research from Aviva finds one UK adult in 10 plans to light a fire or stove in their home, rather than using central heating this year.

However, the study suggests that within this group, only two fifths are taking certain precautions to ensure their fires are safe and suitable for their region.

Just over a third of people who plan to use fires to heat their homes ensure their chimney is swept at least once a year, while shockingly just 41% make certain their chimney is not blocked or capped off.

- Check the rules for your region. If you live in a smoke control area you will be more limited on what you can burn. Your local authority should be able to advise for your area and you can find out more about smoke control rules at Gov.uk

- Donʼt use your fire as a bin. Not everything is suitable for burning. For example, plastics can release dangerous chemicals when burned and aerosols are likely to explode. So stick to the items meant for your fires and stoves.

- Be careful how you dispose of your ashes. Ashes and embers can hold their heat for many hours, so be sure that you donʼt tip them in the bin too soon. If you need to move them, put them in a metal container outside until you are sure they are cold throughout.

Content by: Hannah Davidson, Aviva, Senior Household Underwriting Manager

Portal Woodlands Conservation Group

A similar number say they only burn “proper” fuels on their fire rather than any household rubbish, while the same proportion check that their fuel is suitable for their fireplace or stove. Less than half have checked that their chosen fuel is suitable for the area in which they live.

Hannah Davidson, Senior Household Underwriting Manager for Aviva, says, “It is a real concern that people could be putting so much at risk by not taking simple fire safety steps.

“Homes, possessions and sadly lives can be put in jeopardy if chimneys are capped or arenʼt swept properly - or the wrong type of fuel is used. Weʼd urge people to take action now to make sure fireplaces and stoves are safe and suitable if people plan to use them this year.

“Itʼs understandable that people are looking for alternative ways to heat their properties, but itʼs vital that people put a few checks in place first, to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a real fire without worry.”

Aviva has the following advice for people planning to use real fires or stoves:

- Get your chimney swept regularly. Frequency depends on the type of fuel you are burning and how often you use your stove or fireplace, but The National Association of Chimney Sweeps recommends at least once a year.

- Check your policy terms. Some insurance policies state that chimneys must be swept at specified intervals to minimise any fire risks, particularly if a property has a thatched roof. If this isnʼt done and a fire occurs, customers could risk a claim being declined.

- Ensure your chimney isnʼt capped off or blocked. A fire should not be lit if the associated chimney is “capped” – a technique used to prevent heat escaping and dirt and debris getting in if a chimney isnʼt in use. Similarly, a fire should not be used until any blockages are cleared, for example, birds may have made a nest in or on the chimney if it hasnʼt been in use for a few months.

- Check which fuels can be burned on your fire or in your stove. Wood burners are designed differently to multifuel stoves which tend to incorporate a raised grate to allow air in to help coal burn. Fuels tend to burn at different temperatures and too much heat can damage a burner.

Like many other woods in our area, Portal Woodlands has had a hard time during the recent drought. The trees have invoked their coping mechanism by shedding leaves, in the same way they do in the autumn. This has left the woods looking rather peculiar, with a summer green canopy above a ground covering of discarded brown leaves.

The the next Volunteer work morning is Sunday 16th October from 10am to Noon, meeting at the Education Area. Please bring your own gloves, refreshments and, if possible, tools. Please visit https://pwcg.onesuffolk. net/volunteer-work-mornings/ for full details of how the operating of the volunteer mornings work.

New volunteers of all ages and abilities are always welcome. No experience needed.

For further information, please contact us at pwcg.martlesham@gmail.com, phone: 01473 612632 or visit the website: pwcg.onesuffolk.netor join the members’ Facebook Group by messaging Duncan Sweeting.

Keep it fresh, longer

Supermarket chain ASDA has made the decision toscrap best before dateson hundreds of its fruit and vegetable products in a bid to reduce food waste and help households across the UK likely to be struggling with the ongoing cost of living crisis.

The change, that came into effect in September, after reports from the Waste Resource Action Programme found that the average British household throws away £60 worth of perfectly edible food and drink each month.

Brean Horne, personal finance expert atNerdWallet UK, outlines some of the ways that you can ensure you are reducing the amount of food waste in your home, as well as tips on ways to prepare any fresh produce to prolong the shelf life: Understand how to extend the quality of your favourite items

There are many ways to keep fruit and vegetables fresh. And although they may seem a little unorthodox, these tried and tested methods can help prolong the shelf life of goods for days and even weeks.

- Bananasproduce a type of gas called ethylene which essentially causes it to ripen itself. The gas is produced throughout the banana, not just at the stem like some incorrectly believe, so storing them on a hook where there is greater air circulation will help to lower the

amount of ethylene in one area, and reduce how quickly both they and other fruits in your fruit bowl ripen.

- Mushroomscan be notorious for turning slimy after a matter of days, but removing them from any container, wrapping them in paper towels and in a plastic or paper bag can help prolong their desired texture ahead of consumption.

- Despite what many assume, freshgarlic should not be refriger ated as it will only last a few weeks, as opposed to months in a cool, dry kitchen cupboard. Also never store in airtight containers as it will rot.

Store vegetables in water

For lovers of crunchy salads, precut carrot and celery sticks placed into a glass jar filled with cold water will keep in your fridge for weeks without becoming soggy or limp.

Many avocado fans often find a leftover half turns brown quickly, and water storage can also work to prolong their freshness. Submerge any leftovers into a large glass, and cover with cold water. This should pause any further ripening for up to 72 hours.

Use vinegar to keep soft berries fresh

Vinegar can work wonders when it comes to keeping soft berries of all kinds fresher longer. The most commonly recommended method of the vinegar bath is to mix 1 cup of vinegar with 3 cups of water in a large bowl. Then submerge the berries before draining and rinsing under cold water to extend their ripeness for days or even weeks.

Don’t store potatoes and onions together

When it comes to storage potatoes and onions should always be kept apart in cupboards and vegetable drawers.

Like bananas, onions emit ethylene gas, which potatoes are sensitive to. As well as this, both potatoes and onions release moisture, which can lead to faster spoiling when sat side by side. In order to keep both potatoes and onions fresh for as long as possible, store them separately in a dry and cool area that boasts good air flow.

Remove cheese from plastic wrappers

Cheese is a living thing that has the ability to age, breathe and even sweat. Thereforee, when stored in wrapped plastic, it can no longer take in oxygen, and suffocates,

which can result in a compromised flavour and - in some cases - causes harmful bacteria to grow.

To avoid your Cheddar, Parmesan or Red Leicester going off before you’ve had time to use the block, simply wrap in a piece of baking paper around 3 times the size of the cheese, and store in the fridge.

Swap fresh for tinned or frozen goods where possible

Despite the belief that ‘fresh is best’, the more cost-effective tinned or frozen alternatives are often just as healthy, with the same quantity of fruit and vegetables counting towards your much-needed ‘five a day’.

As well as the financial benefit of frozen and tinned items costing less than fresh (especially when purchased out of season), making the swap will also mean the risk of wastage is significantly reduced, as the items can be kept for months, or even years, without going off.

Check the temperature of your fridge

Theoretically it might make sense that a colder fridge would keep produce fresher for longer, but this is certainly not the case. A fridge temperature of 37 degrees Fahrenheit will keep your items fresh for as long as possible, with no ice crystals able to form, or bacteria able to breed on raw meats.

www.nerdwallet.com/uk/credit-cards/

Canyouaffordtolosemoney?

It’s widely known that your house can lose heat through both the windows and your roof.

This heat loss can, not only add pounds to your energy bills, it also isn’t that great for the environment either.

So, what can you do?

It does not cost the earth to be energy efficient at Eastern Counties Home improvements Ltd.As they do not produce dramatic television campaigns, they can supply energy efficient windows for a much lower cost than many of the national double-glazing companiesand are the perfect place for roofing solutions.

Eastern Counties is a registered installer of the Sarnafil Roof Assured roof ing system. A unique 1 ply membrane with a 40 year plus life expectancy and all installations carry a 15 year manufacturer’s material guarantee. Sarnafil products were first developed in Switzerland in 1958, primarily for use on commercial and industrial buildings. Designed to cope with temperatures ranging from -30°C to 120°C and to withstand all weather conditions. Sarnafil flat roofing provides perfect roofing solu tion for homes and extensions, conservatories, balconies and terraces, dormers, porches and garages. Available in a range of colours, the weather resistant hard-wearing membrane pro vides value for money and can

Flower Club

As well as an exciting demonstration David will be bringing along his beautiful wire sculptures for sale. These would make wonderful gifts so why not start your Christmas shopping early!

Visitors are always welcome £6.00 Tea coffee and biscuits will be available after the demonstration and David’s arrangements will be raffled.

Quiz Night

The Club hold another of their popular quiz evenings on, Saturday 15th October at 7pm in Kirton Church Hall. Take along your favourite drinks, snacks, and glasses, there will also be delicious cakes, tea, and coffee for you to purchase during the interval. Tickets must be booked in advance and are £7.00 each, tables of up to six people. Payment required when booking. Please contact Debbie Doggett on 01394 448415 or email wa@sandlings.co.uk to reserve your place.

improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Single glazed windows, or those installed before April 2002, could be losing heat and therefore money.

Switching to energy efficient windows can save energy and reduce your heating bills by up to £461.00 per year

A staggering 25%-30% of heat lost from houses is through the windows, from the homeowners point of view lost heat equates to lost money and to the environment it means more carbon is released as a result of higher fuel use. Replacing wooden windows with energy efficient A rated PVC-u windows could save you a small fortune on your heating costs as well as reducing noise, draughts and condensation

Windows are now rated in the same way as electrical appliances with an A, B, C etc rating to indicate energy usage. The energy rating is determined the ‘U’ Value which is a measure of how well heat passes through a material. The lower the ‘U’ Value the greater the resistance to heat flows and therefore the better the insulating qualities.

Eastern Counties Home improvements Ltd’s well engineered A rated windows achieve a U Value of 1.4W/m²K and will reduce energy consumption while looking good for years to come. They provide A rated energy efficient windows for no additional cost so you can minimise your impact on the environment while both saving money and enhancing the appearance of your home.

For more information about A rated windows and how it installing them in your home can help save you money on your heating bills or how the Sarnafil Roof Assured roofing system can enhance your home contact Eastern Counties Home improvements Ltd for a free no obligation quotation 01473 206299 or 01206 252393

Deben Flower Club’s next meeting will be on Tuesday 11th October in Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP10 0PU at 7.30pm when the demonstrator will be David Wright from Norfolk with a theme of “20/20 A Vision”.

Don’tskimp oninsurance

An insurance expert has cautioned householders in the East of England against cutting corners on home insurance as a way of coping with the cost-of-living crisis.

Anderson Fossett, of insurance broker Lycetts, has spoken out following a YouGov survey that revealed 11 per cent of Britons would cut back on premiums and policies if the crisis affected their family budget.

“At a time like this, you need all the protection you can get, and economising on vital cover could leave you shouldering a heavy financial burden,” he said.

Inflation currently stands at 9.4 per cent – the highest in 40 years – and the Bank of England predicts it could hit 12 per cent by the autumn.

“In light of such rises, it is essential to check contents insurance policies. Items may have increased in value since purchase, and the sums they are insured for may not reflect their true value,” Fossett said.

“To avoid being underinsured, it is advisable to arrange a revaluation of significant items.

“Similarly, it is worth examining any building insurance policies you may have, with your insurer. The supply shortage and inflated prices of building materials caused by the combination of the pandemic, the conflict in the Ukraine and inflation, may mean that repair and rebuild costs exceed expectations. This should be reflected in the policy.”

Woodbridge Tide Mill has installed a micro-generator inside the Mill to demonstrate electricity generation from hydropower.

The purpose is to educate and provide activities around STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) themes for the many KS1, and KS2-3 students who visit the Mill.

The micro-generator takes its energy from the Crown Wheel Lay Shaft in the Mill. It is coupled to outputs such as phone chargers, a light bulb and a voltmeter so visitors can see the electricity generated. Key Stage 1,2, and 3 students will have accompanying materials to explain the process, the importance of sustainable energy sources and hands-on activities are planned such as simple circuit building.

Tide Mill Education Lead: Heather Sheehan comments, “I am delighted that we can use this generous grant to expand our educational offering. It is paramount that educators begin to teach children the importance of renewable energy sources and sustainability and these sessions will support teachers to do just that.”

Woodbridge Tide Mill Charitable Trust Chair, John Carrington adds, “The Trustees of Woodbridge Tide Mill have declared a Climate Emergency and stand alongside Woodbridge Town Council and East Suffolk District Council in their ambitions to help build awareness of the importance of adopting sustainable energy sources. This project has been part funded by the Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Amenity and Accessibility Fund to whom the Trustees are most grateful.

“We hope this project will show visitors sustainable ways that energy can be generated and reconsider existing behaviours to think about what changes they may be able to make to conserve the natural surroundings as well as consider how their lives can be enhanced”.

Fossett pointed out that as well as potentially ending up thousands of pounds out of pocket in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, those who choose to let contents insurance lapse entirely could find their risk profile adversely affected in the long-term.

“A homeowner may be regarded as financially irresponsible when attempting to start a new insurance policy at a future date,” he added. “This could mean higher premiums.”

“It is important to seek advice from an experienced insurer or broker and review your current insurance before contemplating making any changes to your arrangements.

“Short-term savings could result in long-term loss.

“Insurance offers security against the unexpected. You cannot second guess the unexpected, but you can take all possible precautions to minimise the damage it can cause.”

Start now for perfect summer

Gardening guru, Kate Turner, has released a series of tips and tricks to ensure you have a garden to make the neighbours green with envy by spring.

The key to an abundant and blooming outdoor space is not neglecting it during the colder seasons - spring gardens are made in autumn.

Kate Turner’s top tips include planting trees, bulbs, and shrubs, as well as bringing citrus plants indoors, composting old summer annuals and feeding and seeding your lawn before winter. She also recommend native trees and shrubs as they are most likely to attract wildlife, especially species that have berries and flowers, like holly or mahonia.

The tips come after research of 2,000 people who grow plants, commissioned by gardening experts, Miracle-Gro, found 31 per cent are proud of their gardens during spring and summer but let them grow out during autumn and winter.

Advice for indoor plants is to feed them less, as the longer dark days kick in, and move them closer to a light source, like a windowsill, while keeping them away from radiators or draughts. To ensure a lush lawn and a thriving garden in summer, sow grass seed, deadhead your plants and protect the soil with mulch during the autumn and winter months. And make the most of a garden during the cooler months by adding vivid colour with plants - chrysanthemums and dahlias will flower up until last frosts, and Scandinavian Hygge style elements, such as fire pits and warm blankets will keep people cosy after the summer ends.

Kate Turner for Miracle-Gro said, “There are rumours in the gardening world that say music helps your plants grow, with classical being their favouritewith only seven per cent of the UK are aware of this and play music to their greenery, I suggest that you don’t rely on this to help your plants this autumn and use more practical methods.

“Lawns need help to recover from the dry summer, autumn soil is warm and moist, so will encourage roots to grow strong ready to bounce back in

the spring, don’t leave the work until spring as the damage will be harder to repair and will take longer.

“Adding a mulch to the soil will help suppress weeds and protect summer stressed plants get through the winter.

“You should be caring for your houseplants and indoor plants differently in each season, including reducing feeding in autumn for all plants apart from those that flower, such as orchids.

“That’s why we’ve created this interactive map of the house and garden to show everything you need to know about indoor and outdoor plant care in the autumn, if you get this right now, it will set them up for a great spring and summer.”

Despite Kate’s recommendations, it seems this isn’t common knowledge, as 57 per cent don’t prepare their gardens in the autumn ready for the warm weather and less than half (43 per cent) don’t feed or treat their lawn at all, no matter the time of year.

And 76 per cent only enjoy gardening in the spring and summer, with two in five blaming this on the colder temperatures.

But 42 per cent have regretted letting their garden overgrow in the darker months as it led to embarrassment for 51 per cent because of how messy and unkept it looked, while 62 per cent said it took a lot of time to get it back to normal.

The survey also found 15 per cent of have tested out some interesting tactics in a bid to keep their gardens happy, including talking to their plants, with 21 per cent having even sprinkled them with eggshells in the hope of giving them a helping hand.

On this, Kate advised adding eggshells and coffee to top your soil may help ward off slugs, but it’s something that should be done in the warmer months and won’t help them through the winter.

While one in 10 have tried getting rid of weeds with vinegar - which is something that Kate definitely doesn’t recommend and suggests using a non-glyphosate weedkiller.

But almost half (46 per cent) aren’t confident when it comes to taking care of their gardens, lawns or indoor plant collection during different times of the year, with 26 per cent unaware what products should be used.

However, one in five of those polled via OnePoll would use their garden more if they knew how to take care of it in the colder seasons. And it’s not just the outdoors which gets neglected , as only eight per cent care for their houseplants in the autumn and winter.

Jayne Horswill, spokesperson from Miracle-Gro said, “The research shows over half of plant owners don’t do much, if any, planting, or garden care during autumn, but unfortunately, it’s not surprising.

“People can find it less appealing to spend time outside caring for plants in autumn and winter, not just because of the cold, but because this is the time of year when many plants lay dormant, however the garden can still be bursting with colour and scent at this time of year if you care for it properly.

“Learning how to keep your garden happy and healthy through the colder months is the key to unlocking the year-round potential of your green spaces.

“We should be proud of our gardens no matter the season and caring for them little and often can save a lot of time in the long run, as well as providing visibly improved results - not to mention the mental health benefits of being out in nature and daylight during the darker and colder months.”

summer garden Online security

A recent Treasury Committee report has warned of analarming growth in UK fraud. It has been revealed there has been a surge in consum ers being targeted with fake online adverts, impersonation scams and dodgy crypto investments.Nick Drewe, money-saving expert at WeThrift, has issued some crucial tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of online fraud.

Set strong passwords

Kate Turner’s top autumn gardening tips

1. Don’t stop gardening - spring gardens are made in autumn. Autumn gardening is about having hope and optimism and showing what can be in a couple months’ time

2. This is the time for the best-scented shrubs – these attract the pollinators while also keeping your garden smelling like and oasis. This is great for mental health too, when you need a moment to stop and breathe in the scent.

3. Early autumn is all about trimming your lavender and rosemary plants.

4. Autumn is also great for foraging and collecting fruits and nuts such as blackberries and hazelnuts, these are wonderful additions to a garden and best time to plant is late autumn.

5. Move all citrus plants inside during Autumn preparation. Citrus can often flower during the colder months so will benefit from a light feed but be careful not to overwater. Do check the underside of leaves for any pests and make sure they are not in a draught.

6. Dig up and compost any old summer annuals – replace them with beautiful autumn and winter flowering plants such as violas, pansies, bellis daisies, wallflowers and cyclamens.

7. Add instant cheer to last through to winter by planting colourful autumn containers with a mix of small shrubs, dwarf conifers and annuals such as winter pansies. There’s also time to add some colour with plants such as chrysanthemums, asters, crocosmias, sedums, Japanese anenomes and nerines.

8. Autumn is the key time to plant bulbs in prep for spring – they are a much cheaper planting option than flowers and are very low maintenance. If you have a lawn, scatter daffodil bulbs into it and plant where they fall. Come spring you will have a Wordsworth worthy drift of cheery yellow.

9. Sow hardy annuals ready for an earlier showing next spring (such as calendula, sweet peas and linum).

10. Lawn care is key - Autumn is the best time to start lawn care including repairing and feeding and sowing seed. Also, keep leaves off the lawn as they fall, don’t wait till all have come down at once.

11. Any plants still flowering lots (such as dahlias, asters and chrysanthemums) can still benefit from regular deadheading and feeding. Use a liquid feed weekly until the cooler weather comes in. For larger flowering shrubs apply a continuous release feed that will last all season long.

12. Trim trees and shrubs to give them shape and to remove any branches overhanging paths and the lawn. Don’t go mad, aim for an open shape rather than a drastic cut.

13. Don’t prune roses but you can trim the tips off larger ones and climbers to stop them rocking in the wind, this also applies to buddleias.

14. Feed the soil– weed and clear leaves from borders and add mulch in a thick layer onto moist soil. No need to dig it in either. This protects roots from winter cold, keeps weeds down and adds nutrients to the soil.

15. Plant evergreen shrubs to add structure and to brighten up the garden when other plants go dormant. Big glossy green leaves can really help brighten up a dark winter corner (such as a fatsia japonica, acuba japonica and skimmia japonica).

16. Plant shrubs and trees now. Autumn is the best time as the soil is still warm and rain is more frequent. They will get their roots down in the soil without having to worry about supporting large leaves and flowers.

17. Start to plant bare root roses – cheaper and more variety and you will have earlier flowering.

18. Plant for wildlife – look for shrubs with berries that will not only add bright reds and yellow into your garden but will feed the birds during the colder months.

19. Don’t put your garden furniture away, embrace the Scandinavian Hygge where they make the garden work for them all season long. Add fire pits, waterproof cushions and blankets with outdoor lighting to keep you in the garden. Cinema nights with a projector and bonfire parties are great ways to use the space

20. Mini beast hotels are great to make in the autumn with the kids prepping for hibernation in the winter – these are great for bees, butterflies, ladybirds and other insects. These work best in a well mulched area of the garden and near something flowering or with berries.

To avoid hackers finding their way into your accounts, make sure you set yourself a strong password that is not obvious. A strong password is at least eight characters in length and includes a mixture of numbers, special characters, as well as a mix of upper and lowercase letters. Do not use the same password for all of your accounts.

Install the latest security soft ware for your devices

Keeping your computers and mobile devices up to date is one of the best ways to protect yourself against any online threats. If you know that you’ll forget to manually do this from time to time, set up automatic updates.

Make sure your internet connec tion is secure

Your home Wi-Fi should always be protected with a password. Look out for phishing emails

Online scams typically start with phishing emails and adverts that trick users into disclosing sensitive confidential information. That said, don’t click on any links or pop-ups from sources that you are not famil iar with. The same thing goes for

websites, there are plenty of fraud ulent sites to be wary of.

Do your research on a company

If you are purchasing car insurance or booking a company, do a bit of research on the company that you have come across. As well as in vestigating their website, check out their social media profiles and look into the reviews and ratings.

Keep it private and personal on social media profiles

When it comes to working out pass words, hackers tend to target social media profiles to retrieve personal information. These days, it’s com mon for passwords to be some one’s birthday, address or mother’s maiden name.

Shop safely

When shopping online, always check the website address to make sure you are on a legitimate site. The address should begin with ‘https.’ and there should be a locked padlock symbol that appears on the URL bar. As well as this, sign up to Verified by Visa or MasterCard Secure Code when given the option.

www.wethrift.com/

Expert warns people of leaving

With around 32.5 million cars on the road in the UK, motorists who park in a frustrating manner - or cause damage to other vehicles - are not uncommon. But if you react by leaving a strongly-worded note on the offending driver’s windscreenas seen on countless social media posts - you could be committing an offence yourself.

Graham Conway, MD atSelect Car Leasing, says you potentially leave yourself open to libel action, or being accused of damaging the car you leave a message on.

Mr Conway reveals, “When it comes to perceived behaviours on the road or in car parks, responding in an aggressive manner - either verbal or physical gestures, or by leaving notes - is rarely a recipe for a pro ductive conversation. While leaving a note on a motorist’s car to vent

your anger might be tempting, we’d urge people to think twice.If you touch someone else’s car, perhaps when lifting up a windscreen wiper to leave your note, you could be accused of damaging or scratching that person’s vehicle.

“If the motorist you’re targeting drives for a living, you could also end up defaming them, or their business, by making accusations about the way they behave which could cause reputational damage. That’s particu larly true if the note you leave is clear and visible for others to read.

“What you should do when confronted by any sort of poor behaviour on the road is to remain calm and stay non-aggressive so there’s no escalation of conflict.”

Thoughts echoed by Dominic Smith, of Patterson Law, the UK’s largest road traffic offence legal specialists.

He says, “If the note was threaten ing, or abusive - especially if that abuse was racially, religiously or sexually motivated - then that might be an offence.If you are going to leave a note, leave-out threats.”

Responding to what you see as poor driving by accelerating, braking or swerving your car suddenly is also a big no-no. Mr Conway adds, “Not only will this aggravate other drivers, but you will also put yourself at risk, reducing your own car control. Stay calm and continue to drive sensibly so as not to make the situation worse.”

If you’re involved in an accident, you should also be as factual as possible when making notes about the incident, so that you can support any insurance claims.This includes noting down the date and time of the incident and any other important information which may be helpful when arguing your case.

If there is an accident, whoever may be liable, you must report the matter

to the police as soon as possible and in all cases within 24 hours. Reporting it online or by telephoning 101 is not enough.

DON’T block someone who has parked on your driveway

There is no criminal law against a stranger parking on a driveway without the homeowner’s consent, however a driveway is part of private property so therefore by driving on it the motorist would be trespassing. However, if someone parks on a driveway and another driver blocks a car in, this can be classed as a crim inal offence if you cause obstruction to the public highway. But if you do anything to the offending vehicle, you could also be committing a crim inal offence. This includes, causing damage, moving it or deploying a wheel clamp. If the vehicle is caus ing an obstruction on the road, you can call your local authority and have it towed.

www.selectcarleasing.co.uk/

‘aggressive’ notes on vehicles Changes to motorways?

She said she is “prepared to look at” introducing a German-style system of smart motorways, where sections of many autobahns have no mandatory speed limits.

Graham Conway, Managing Director atSelect Car Leasing, says he’d tentatively welcome an increase in motorway speed limits on certain sections of the highway - but has grave concerns about how it might be implemented. He says, “While there’s an argument to say that some sections of the UK’s motorway network might justify a speed limit hike, a blanket 70mph lift has the potential to be absolutely catastrophic.

“There are many cars on the roads today that are not adept when travelling at increased speeds on motorways.“And then there’s the issue of tailgating.

“Despite the recent ‘Don’t be a Space Invader’ campaign launched by National Highways, tailgating remains an enormous problem in the UK. You can witness dangerous instances of tailgating almost every single time you get behind the wheel.

“The National Highways’ own stats suggest that tailgating is a factor in 1 in 8 crashes on the road network.

“And, in my view, lifting the motorway speed limit will only exacerbate endemic tailgating problems in the UK, particularly as you’ll have huge disparities in how fast vehicles are willing to travel.

“Cars that get too close to the car in front not only make the driver feel targeted and intimidated but they can also lead to severe collisions, as the tailgater won’t be able to react and stop in time if the car in front brakes suddenly.

“Any lifting of the motorway speed limit would need to be accompanied by a concerted national clampdown on tailgating offences, because, right now, the issue isn’t being addressed sufficiently.”

A recent Select Car Leasing survey showed that tailgating was the number one ‘fear’ among UK drivers when they get behind the wheel.

Almost a third of respondents (32%) to a national, independent survey said ‘drivers driving too close behind me’ was their biggest road-related fear.

Leaving an aggressive note on someone’s car could see you falling foul of the law - and this is what you need to know about it.

PM Liz Truss hints she could scrap motorway speed limits and pledges to ban smart motorways.

Almost half of the 2,000 car owners polled admitted they don’t know everything their car can do. And of those who activated a new feature, 38 per cent “accidentally triggered” it, while 44 per cent were alerted to the hidden extras by family or friends. It also emerged that although 49 per cent cite safety reasons in their consideration of high-tech features when buying a new vehicle, 36 per cent feel “confused” by them.

It also emerged that more than a quarter of drivers don’t use the features in their car because they simply don’t know how to. Unsurprisingly, 85 per cent believeit’s important that someone explains a car’s abilitiesto them when buyinga new model, and eight in 10 would like to have access to a tech guru to answer their questions after apurchase. But despite 46 per cent claiming to love their current car, four in 10 said it doesn’t have their ideal specification.

A fifth of those polled via OnePoll also thought their car became obsolete too quickly, because of technology constantly evolving.

The survey was commissioned by the nearly new vehicle retailer Motorpoint [https://www.motorpoint.co.uk/], which has also created a video showing some of the useful features and hidden spec gems on the forecourt. These include Skoda’s concealed ice scraper and umbrella, Honda’s Magic Seats and the Ford Puma’s MegaBox. As demonstrated on the Jazz model, Honda’s Magic Seats flip upwards like cinema seats to allow transportation of tall or bulky items in the cabin. While Ford’s Puma has a similar party trick, as the MegaBox under the boot floor increases the boot’s capacity and height, making it one of the largest in the small crossover class. Also highlighted was the centre row of seats in the seven-seater Peugeot 5008, which enables three child seats to be installed side-by-side via individual ISOFIX points.

Some fun automotive ‘Easter eggs’ emerged on the forecourt, including MINI’s Disco Mode, Vauxhall’s hidden shark emblem and the Jaguar E-Pace cub logo that features on the windscreen of Jaguar’s small SUV.

The research also revealed that when buying a new set of wheels, reliability is the most important factor, closely followed by good fuel economy and low servicing costs. And when it comes to standard features, more than half want a lot of boot space, while 47 per cent prioritise a good heating and ventilation system. Other essential requirements include adjustable seats and a heated windscreen.

However, almost six in 10 have discovered features in their current car that they didn’t know about when they first got it, while 27 per cent stumbled on these features in the manual. But these discoveries weren’t made instantly, as one in five drivers admitted it took them almost two years to discover some of their car’s hidden gems.

The research also showed that not understanding their carimpacted drivers’ confidence, as 51 per cent believe their driving would be betterif they knew more about what their vehicle can do.

Mark Carpenter, CEO at Motorpoint, said, “When it comes to technological upgrades in our daily lives, we tend to think about phones, laptops – or even kitchen appliances, but the motoring industry has also had something of a revolution when it comes to car specification.

“Buying a car is a big investment, so it’s important people have access to the right knowledge at the point of purchase. Access to an expert who can demonstrate key features before signing on the dotted line and during the handover can make all the difference.”

Mark Carpenter added, “We wanted to share some of our favourite features that make some cars great to live with, but also to highlight the need for good advice when buying and during ownership.

“Ensuring your car meets all your requirements means it’ll be better value and more enjoyable in the long term.”

n Ford's Focus with Daniel Ford

Golf is in turmoil. In the last nine months the sport has been thrown into chaos, as golfing superstars are at war with each other. As a result for this month’s article I thought that I would attempt to break down what is going on.

For those of you that aren’t golf fans I will try and explain this simply. For years there has only been one major golf tour, this is the PGA (Professional Golfers Association) tour in which players have toured round the United States every year playing in the various states. This year though a new tour has been launched fronted by ex-golfer Greg Norman and backed by a significant amount of money from Saudi Arabia. This tour has offered eyewatering prize money to players in order to persuade them to switch allegiances, for example, in a tournament played in September of this year the minimum amount a player could earn was $120,000 and that was just for taking part!

Initially the new tour didn’t ruffle too many feathers, most of the players who decided to move were those who were near the latter end of their career or who had been relatively unsuccessful in their golfing careers. This all changed though when players such as Patrick Reed and Dustin Johnson moved across, these were players still pretty much in their prime and both of them were major winners too. Suddenly the LIV tour had serious momentum and this led to a fractured relationship with the PGA tour which banned any LIV players from playing on the PGA tour, this effectively meant that players now had to choose between the two.

There were further shocks to the PGA tour when Cameron Smith who had won the Open championship (arguably the biggest major championship of the year) only a month ago defected across, this followed the news of Henrik Stenson being stripped of his status as European Ryder Cup captain after his decision to do the same. These players faced some harsh words from those players remaining on the PGA tour most notably Rory McIlroy who repeatedly spoke out against these individuals in his press conferences.

Currently for me golf is walking towards disaster, it has gone from having one magnificent tour to two relatively average ones. The issue is that at the end of the day money talks and for those players that have made the move they are making more money whilst having to play less golf so it is an easy win. What will be interesting is first of all to see if these players are allowed to compete in the major championships, and if they are then whether they are competitive. If they are not then we will find out what these players value more, money or major wins?

www.randadriveways.com

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