In Touch with Bramford February 2020 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

In Touch

™© ™©

with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham Volume 10 • Issue No. 4 • FEBRUARY 2020

Taken at Packard Place by Beryl Sims

BRAMFORD & DISTRICT SOCIAL CLUB WHAT’S ON IN FEBRUARY

71-73 The Street, Bramford IP8 4DX. Tel: 01473 745198

CHELSEA FRANCIS

Sat 1st Thurs 6th Sat 8th

MISS 60s SHOW

QUIZ 2 SHADES OF GREY

60s DUO

VALENTINE’S DINNER DANCE WITH BOB WHITING AND SHOOT THE DRUMMER

Sat 15

Thurs 20 Sat 22nd Wed 26th Thurs 27th Sat 29th th

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

QUIZ BONNIE DIAMOND AND Co. KARAOKE BINGO THE BOOTLEG BEE GEES! TICKETS ON SALE NOW! COMING IN MARCH!

A NIGHT WITH ITFC LEGEND JOHN WARK THURS 12TH • TICKETS ON SALE NOW

• Sunday lunches 12-3 pm • Thursday lunches 12-2pm • Bar meals Friday evenings • For all food enquiries please contact Suzi Q on 07824830152

We have a snooker room, pretty outside seating area and hot drinks available at the bar – so come and join us for coffee or beer.

• Sunday lunches 12-3 pm • Thursday lunches 12-2pm • Bar meals Friday evenings • For all food enquiries please contact Suzi Q on 07824830152

REGULAR DARTS, CRIB, KARAOKE, POOL AND SNOOKER NIGHTS DURING THE WEEK. MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE NOW. We have a snooker room, pretty outside seating area and hot drinks available at the bar – so come and join us for coffee or beer.

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR

NEWS

Have you noticed the days getting the teensiest bit longer? It’s barely perceptible but I’m sure the sky is a little bit brighter when I leave work than it was even a week ago. However, it can be a rather gloomy time of the year so this month I’ve set out to give you something to laugh at – I hope it works. The Funniest Joke of The Fringe award was introduced 12 years ago at the Edinburgh Fringe. The goal of finding the wittiest one-liners falls to an expert panel of 10 judges, comprising of the UK’s leading comedy critics. Last year’s winner was Swedish comedian Olaf Falafel. He took the title with the gag: “I keep randomly shouting out ‘Broccoli’ and ‘Cauliflower’ – I think I might have florets” Ten jokes made the 2019 shortlist. My favourites were: “Someone stole my antidepressants. Whoever they are, I hope they’re happy” Richard Stott “A cowboy asked me if I could help him round up 18 cows. I said, ‘Yes, of course. That’s 20 cows’” Jake Lambert “A thesaurus is great. There’s no other word for it” Ross Smith “After learning six hours of basic semaphore, I was flagging” Richard Pulsford “To be or not to be a horse rider, that is Equestrian” Mark Simmons Here are a few others which made the shortlist over the years but failed to win: “I’m sure wherever my dad is; he’s looking down on us. He’s not dead, just very condescending.” Jack Whitehall

COULD YOU HELP A LOCAL CHARITY? Suffolk Family Carers is based on Hill View Business Park in Old Ipswich Road, Claydon. We provide information, advice, guidance and support for anyone who is caring for a friend, family member or neighbour. The person they are caring for may be ill, have a disability, a mental health issue or be elderly and frail. How can you help? We have various volunteer roles available including admin and telephone support. You can even volunteer from your own home! What do we offer? Training and support for your volunteer role, out-of-pocket expenses, the opportunity to meet new people, and to make a real difference to the lives of family carers. Who do I contact? If you are interested or you would like to find out more, please call 01473 835450 or email us at: volunteer@suffolkfamilycarers.org

“I like to imagine the guy who invented the umbrella was going to call it the ‘brella’. But he hesitated” Andy Field “I’ll tell you what’s unnatural in the eyes of God. Contact lenses.” Zoe Lyons They say humour is subjective and I know (or have been told) mine is somewhat ‘dark’, but you can’t deny the beautiful simplicity of each of the jokes highlighted here, and the talents behind them. Oh just one more… “I’m not a fan of the new pound coin, but then again, I hate all change.” Ken Cheng

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins T: 01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

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ColourPlan Print: 01473 400379 E: steve@colourplan.co.uk Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd

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ALLOTMENT PLOTS AVAILABLE Bramford Parish Council has vacancies at the Station Field and Duckamere sites. For further information please contact John: 07835 433031

In Touch Titles • Stowmarket & Stowupland • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew • Melton & Woodbridge • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall & Warren Heath • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit • Needham Market & The Creetings •S hotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton & Woolverstone • Martlesham • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford & Stratford St Mary • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone & Washbrook • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead •W esterfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe

Mon 10 February is the advertising and editorial deadline for the March edition

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

SOMERSHAM/CHALLAIN-LA-POTHERIE VILLAGE LINK We are planning to visit Challain-la-Potherie in the Loire Valley on the weekend of the last spring bank holiday, Friday 22 to Monday 25 May. This will be the 20th year of the link between our villages and many longstanding friendships have been made over the years. New people travel with us each time, many of whom go on to make new friends themselves, both in France and locally. We travel by coach from Somersham to Challain and stay with host families where food and entertainment is provided. There is always a good mix of English and French on these occasions and language does not present a problem. We welcome people from our surrounding villages to join us. The cost is determined by the number who travel, so the more who go, the cheaper it is. A fantastic group of people go from our local villages and we’d love to have new people of all ages, either individuals or families, on our next trip. Over the time we have been going to Challain we have had all ages, the youngest being three years old and the oldest 80, and everybody in between. So if you’d like to know more please contact one of the following. Gill Fordham: 831529; David Haughton: 831511; Janet Hodge: 832296; Pat Woolhouse: 831080

NEWS RICHARD STEWARD 3 October 1938 to 25 October 2019 We would like to thank all friends, neighbours and family for their love and support on the sad loss of Richard. Richard would have been so touched by the number of people who joined us at the chapel and afterwards at the village hall. Your generous donations amounted to £500 which will be shared between The British Heart Foundation and Heartbeat East Suffolk. Thank you all, your kindness and support is very much appreciated From Rosemary and family

BRAMFORD PARISH COUNCIL Ah, bliss! The days are lengthening and the temperatures rising... well, here’s hoping, as I’m writing this in the mid-January gloom. Still, it’s nowhere near what one of our intrepid street cleaners had to endure recently, having trekked to Everest Base Camp in minus twenty degree temperatures, raising thousands for charity in the process. Congratulations Gilly on your incredible accomplishment and for the continued work you and Mark do around the village, come rain or shine. It’s looking unlikely that a meeting with Suffolk County Council representatives to discuss bus-service options will come about any time soon, but councillors remain committed to an opportunity being provided for local residents to point out the effects on the village, especially as proposed housing development applications refer to a bus service into Ipswich as one of the ‘selling points’. Now the general election and Christmas holidays are over it’s hoped we can, once again, enlist the assistance of our county councillor, John Field. The end of the financial year approaches, indicating a busy period for our clerk as she prepares for the internal and external audits. The subsequent annual parish meeting is due to be held on April 27, with tea, coffee and biscuits being served from 7pm at the Parish Room. This is an opportunity for local residents to find out what the parish council has been up to and, more importantly, put forward suggestions on what you’d like to see happen in your community. Of course, you don’t have to wait till April. Please feel free to contact our clerk at: bramfordparishcouncil@btinternet.com / 01473 747433. As spring approaches the allotment-holders will be out in force. If you’re interested in renting a plot please contact the clerk via the details above.

Wheelie 2020 will be on Saturday 13 June. Planning is underway and we aim to repeat our successful format with a vehicle show, live music, trade and local stalls, children’s games and activities, hot and cold food and bars. As we expand, we need more volunteers on the day, if only for a couple of hours. Please get in touch. If you have a vehicle (or anything with wheels) you would like to show off, please contact Andy: 07833 089148 / wheelievehiclebookings@aol.com. If you would like to run your own stall or table top sale, please contact Terry: 07733 226898 If you would like to perform on stage, message Craig by visiting our Facebook page: Wheelie Fun Day

GIPPING VALLEY COUNTY & BLAKENHAM DISTRICT COUNCILLOR JOHN FIELD 2020-21 County Budget Proposals Proposals will be agreed by full council on 13 February. Services are expected to cost £545.4m and income to be £550.8m including Council Tax, with an extra £13m grant from the government for social care. The £5.4m surplus will be used to fund a £1.8m increase in reserves, an extra £0.5m for Highways and a £3m Suffolk 2020 fund. There are no major cuts to services proposed. However, the budget relies on £7.2m savings from transformation programmes, and a further £12.3m from ‘mitigations and savings’, a major challenge! Council Tax Council Tax will increase by two percent plus another two percent increase for social care. Suffolk 2020 Fund The Suffolk 2020 fund of £3m is for projects focused on carbon reduction, road safety, natural environment, built environment, innovation and use of technology. All projects must be capable of delivery within 12 months, before the next county election. They must have a clear economic, social or environmental return on investment and not involve recurring expenditure. We don’t yet know how this funding will be allocated, or who can bid for it. Citizens Advice In last year’s budget, Suffolk County Council announced that it would be removing its £368k grant to Citizens Advice. Scrutiny recommended this cut be phased in, half in 2019-20 and half in 2020-21. In the event, the CCG’s stepped in to fill the 2019 gap. The budget proposals for 2020-21 include a £120k grant for Citizens Advice which will remain in place for three years. There is a view in the Conservative group that CAB must be re-organised on the lines adopted in the west of the county and a determination to force them to do that. It remains my view that Citizens Advice is a high value service delivering much from skilled volunteers and in doing so reduces spend by many government bodies. It gives effective debt management advice and helps people to secure benefits they are entitled to. Future bus projects The council is planning to bid for around £20 million from the Department for Transport for a pilot electric bus pilot scheme to start within 18 months in the Bury St Edmunds area. First new SEND units announced In January 2019, Suffolk County Council agreed to spend £45.1m on additional schools and specialist units for children with SEND. The first 10 units, providing 168 spaces, are due to open in September 2020. Mid Suffolk budget proposals 2020-21 Mid Suffolk’s budget for 2020/21 proposes a 1.66 percent Council Tax increase worth £109k, and an increase in the tax base which will raise £76k. As opposition group we have presented proposals involving action on the environment, house building, planning enforcement and highways input to planning. The administration has so far agreed to reserve £500,000 for each of the next two years to fund many of the environmental proposals via the Climate Change Working Group. If you have any queries, please ring 07545 423808 or email: john.field@suffolk.gov.uk

If you would like to help in any way, please contact Terry: 07733 226898 / wheelieenquiries@btinternet.com

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NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY Come and have a look Are you interested in finding out how your waste is used to generate electricity for the national grid? We’ve just announced a series of open days for 2020 which are free of charge and available to anyone interested in finding out more about waste and the facility. We have places available on the following dates: March 25 at 2pm, April 8 at 6pm, April 15 at 2pm and June 3 at 10am. There are up to 20 spaces available each day and pre-booking is essential. To book a space email suffolkefw.uk@suez.com or call 01473 839149. SUEZ Communities Trust SUEZ Communities Trust provides funding for projects that support community and environmental improvements. In 2019, the trust awarded in excess of £60,000 to projects local to the Suffolk energy-from-waste facility. Funding is available to projects within close proximity to any SUEZ sites that meet certain criteria. If you know of any local projects that could be deserving of funding, for more information about the trust and how to apply visit: www.suezcommunitiestrust.org.uk We’re on Twitter Did you know that Suffolk’s energy-from-waste facility is on social media? For more frequent facility updates, fun facts and all the handy tips you could ever need about rubbish, recycling, and food waste, follow us on Twitter at: @suffolkefw Any questions? If you have any queries about our operations, please don’t hesitate to contact us: 01473 839149 / suffolkefw.uk@suez.com OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01934 524013

RIVER GIPPING TRUST The trust’s new footbridge planning application across the river at Baylham has been delayed by a request from Natural England to undertake a preliminary ecological appraisal report into the hibernating and breeding of bats around the bridge vicinity. This has been extended to consider the impact on otters and water voles. The trust has commissioned Graven Ecology to undertake this appraisal and we look forward to working with Graven to improve the wellbeing of bats, otters and water voles along the river. The trust are contributing to the TCV’s I Dig Trees campaign to plant more than one million native trees by planting 50 trees along the banks of the River Gipping. These trees were planted early in the new year along the south (sunny side) of the river at locations where there is currently little or no shade from the sun. We have noticed large areas of reeds, silt and aquatic weed growth along the river at these open locations, with much more free flowing open water where the river gets some shade. If you would like to see canoes and boats along the River Gipping, you may wish to consider signing a petition raised by British Canoeing. Of the 42,700 miles of inland waterways in England, only 1,400 miles can be paddled uncontested. British canoeing wish to change this. Go to www.clearaccessclearwaters.org.uk/petitions-map or click on the link on our Facebook page. There was much flooding along the River Gipping when it burst its banks. This photo shows the towpath under water alongside Pipps Ford lock. There are many more photos of the river in flood on the River Gipping Facebook page.

SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416 OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday: 8am-6pm / Saturdays: 9am-1pm A COMMUNITY SHOP FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND RUN BY THE LOCAL COMMUNITY We’re well into 2020 now and looking forward to greeting all our customers throughout the coming year. Many thanks to all the volunteers who gave their time to keep the shop open over the Christmas and New Year period; your efforts were much appreciated. We very much welcome new volunteers in the shop. It’s an excellent way to meet new people and learn new skills. It’s also an excellent way to gain work experience to put on CVs for anybody wishing to join the world of work or going forward with education. If you’ve recently moved to our locality, are recently retired or have a bit of time on your hands and wish to get to know more people, our community shop is an excellent place to meet with other people and provide heart to the community. Our Meet up Mondays are thriving and welcoming lots of people each Monday morning between 10 and 11.30am. It sprung from the Coffee Caravan project and provides information as well as a hot drink and a chance to meet up with others for a chat during the cold weather. The Petrolheads afternoons in the Coffee Corner on the first Wednesday of each month from 2-4pm are also going well. If this is your thing you will be welcomed by other like-minded people. The main purpose of the shop is to provide our customers with good quality, reasonably priced, produce. We support local producers and offer an excellent range of fresh local produce (eggs, tomatoes, bread, pies, cakes, etc.), all produced within a very short distance from us. Goods can also be pre-ordered to ensure what you require is in stock. We also have frozen foods and a whole range of other household goods. Our other services are there for all to use; please come in and you will be greeted by our friendly volunteer staff. Regular or one-off orders can be placed for meat, bread, cakes, etc. The Coffee Corner is a good place for a relaxing chat and you might even find something new to read in the book exchange. Dry-cleaning is collected on Tuesday afternoons and newspapers and magazines can be ordered for collection. We even offer a delivery service for those with mobility problems We also promote reuse and recycle and are always happy to receive reusable carrier bags and egg boxes. Sproughton Community Shop is a great place to shop, find local produce and keep in touch. It also gives real heart to the local community. Hurrah for our shop, we look forward to seeing you there. Management Team: Lucy Barrett – 831890; Sue Browne – 831321; Mary Carter; Stephen Bullard; Janet Hodge – 832296; Peter Jousiffe; Anne MacFadyen – 831288

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OUT & ABOUT BRAMFORD COFFEE MORNING BRAMFORD WI We will meet at the Loraine Victory Hall on Monday 10 February at 7.30pm. This month Andrew Wiltshire will present talk which should keep us laughing all evening, True Tales of Humorous Hassle. It’s about true life and travel challenges and sounds like an evening to look forward, particularly if you’re down in the dumps.

The coffee morning on Saturday 15 February will be in Cherryfields, Gippingstone Road, Bramford, from 10-11am. Tea, coffee and cakes will be on sale, together with a variety of pickles and preserves. There will also be a stall selling cards, calendars, etc. This is an excellent chance to meet and chat with fellow villagers, so we hope to see you there.

The competition will be an unusual or rare red item.

ORWELL PROBUS CLUB We meet for lunch at Ipswich Sports Club on Henley Road on the second Thursday of each month and usually a speaker entertains us afterwards. Probus clubs provide an opportunity for active retired or semi-retired gentlemen to attend regular meetings and enjoy the camaraderie of likeminded people who appreciate similar interests. We have social events, outings and holidays which, of course, include spouses, partners and friends. If you think Orwell Probus Club could be for you, please contact Chris Flint, for further details: 01473 226996 / mailto@1878.me.uk

FUN QUIZZES AT BRAMFORD CHURCH ROOM Our next quiz evening is Thursday 6 February, starting at 7.30pm in Bramford Church Room, followed by Thursdays 5 March and 2 April.

Saturday 28 March from 11am-2pm Somersham Village Hall IP8 4QA Clothes – Toys – Books – Tombola – Refreshments – Raffle

BELSTEAD VILLAGE MONTHLY MARKETS A market takes place in Belstead Village Hall from 9.30am-12.30pm on the first Saturday of every month from March till December to raise vital funds to support the upkeep of the village hall. With an extensive range of tables, a raffle and refreshments, the market is the perfect place to meet with friends for a chat over a cuppa and a piece of cake while supporting this essential local amenity. You can also support our chosen charity at a table laden with homemade goodies for sale. If you can sew, make or create and would like to hire a table (£10) please contact: 07981 335859 / market@belsteadvillage.co.uk Belstead Village Hall, Grove Hill, Belstead IP8 3LU

Individuals and pairs are always welcome, or come as a table of four. It’s still just £3 per person with food included. Please reserve your table in advance as the number of tables we can accommodate is limited. All enquiries to David Thompson: 07711 388377

BRAMFORD LOCAL HISTORY GROUP This month Edward Packard is returning to tell us about the refugee Basque children from the Spanish Civil War, a subject that very little is known about (it’s not strictly local, but is history). The meeting will be at 7.30pm on Thursday 20 February in the Church Room. Visitors, who are always welcome, will be asked to pay £3.

GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB Open to anyone living in Great Blakenham and the surrounding area, we meet in Great Blakenham Parish Room every Monday from 2-4pm. The cost is £2 per week to include workshop materials, raffle prizes and refreshments. The club will reconvene on February 3 and our programme for 2020 is: February 3 March 2 April 6 May 4 June 1 July 6 August 3 September 7 October 5 November 2 December 7

A Little Light Reading Forever Flowerz Birds, Butterflies and Flowers Have a go at Bargello Prick and Stitch for Men The Vintage Look Sewing/Paper Mash-Up Wobble Wobble Christmas Tableware Christmas Card Medley AGM

For further information please get in touch with Jackie Durrant: 01449 672690

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BRAMFORD CRAFT & CHATTER GROUP This month we shall meet on Tuesdays 11 and 25 in the Parish Room from 9.30am to noon as usual. New comers welcome – no charge.

BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB The club will meet in the upstairs room at Bramford Methodist Church from 10am to noon on Wednesdays 5, 12 and 26 February. Please note there is no club meeting on 19 February as this is half term. The cost is £3 per two-hour session plus £1 membership per school year, payable from September. There’s no set programme but the club is here to help you get the best out of your computer. We have a very fast internet connection and refreshments (tea, coffee and biscuits) are always available. Why not give us a try?

OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS BRAMFORD TREFOIL GUILD We have just had our first meeting of 2020, which was our AGM. We had refreshments afterwards and then played Hoy Bingo. Time flies doesn’t it! Our next meeting is at the Guide and Scout HQ, Ship Lane, Bramford on Monday 3 February at 2pm. Visitors and new members very welcome.

SOMERSHAM & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB The next meeting will be held on Monday 10 February at 7.30pm in Offton and Willisham Village Hall. Matt Long from Riverside Bulbs will be giving a talk on dahlias. If you need any further information please call: 01473 254941/830600

SOMERSHAM WI Our meeting on February 17 should be really interesting. It’s entitled A Fisherman’s Mission and Andy Malcolm is coming to talk to us about all things fishing, including commercial fishing, fish and chips and more! We’ve already found out how we can reduce waste at our January meeting, and we look forward to a visit from a Wimbledon line judge in March. A few of our members are off to the Suffolk East Federation annual meeting in March and are looking forward to some fantastic speakers. Annual membership is £43, but you can attend as a visitor for just £4 three times a year. We meet on the third Monday of the month in Somersham Village Hall at 7.30pm. For more information about us please visit: www.somershamwi.wordpress.com / www.facebook.com/SomershamWI

SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB We will keep our fingers crossed for good weather this month. Unless you hear from us by telephone, meetings will be held as usual at 2pm each Wednesday for cards, tea and bingo.

GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50S CLUB Open to anyone of that age living in Great Blakenham and the surrounding area, we meet in Great Blakenham Parish Room on the second and fourth Wednesdays from 2-4pm. The £2 attendance fee includes the raffle and refreshments, and £1 extra when we have a game of bingo. This month we shall have a social afternoon on February 12 and on February 26 a visit by Patrick O’Mahony from The National Trust. Patrick will give a presentation on Ickworth House during the First World War, how world changing events affected an aristocratic family living in a stately home in rural Suffolk and the impact on the staff and villagers. His talk will be illustrated with moving personal histories and photographs. New members are always welcome so if you would like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you. Jackie Durrant: 01449 672690

CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL 100 CLUB Our last draw took place on 17 December 2019, earlier than usual due to the Christmas break. The winners were: 1: Brenda Bugg (93) 2: Emma Harman (57) 3: Emma Sheppard (2) Thanks to your support, £19.50 was donated to the pre-school. Half of all money given for the 100 Club goes to the pre-school and the other half is paid out in winnings. Membership is just £1 a month. You don’t need to have a child at the pre-school to be a member. Membership forms are available from the office or by email. Thank you to all those lovely people who continue to support us. We are very grateful.

CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL The spring term has started in earnest with Year 11 students undertaking internal exams in preparation for the real thing in the summer. It can be a stressful time but lots of support is offered, especially in the form of afterschool revision sessions. Later this month they will take part in a Revision Bootcamp on Mersea Island in Essex. As well as learning some useful revision strategies, they will attempt some challenging physical activities including high ropes and a climbing wall to build confidence and prove to themselves that if they have a go – they will succeed! Hopefully in addition to returning home cold, tired and muddy they will feel more confident moving towards their exam season. On 10 January, a group of Year 8 students took part in a creative workshop at the Guardian News and Media Education Centre in London. The Guardian is one of the biggest newspapers in the UK and their education centre provides a range of programmes to enable visitors to interact with the news and to get a realistic understanding of what it’s like to work in a busy news gathering organisation. Students had the opportunity to work together as an editorial team, writing front page and feature articles in a bustling and high-demand newsroom. Drama students from all year groups are being given the opportunity to experience live theatre during the spring season at the New Wolsey Theatre, with five separate trips planned. Students study drama at KS3; analysing and evaluating live theatre is also a key component of the GCSE course. We hope they enjoy the productions and experience a wide variety of skills and performance styles. This term will remain busy into March as we look forward to a number of activities and events including a rock band workshop, art exhibition, readathon, a trip to the Globe Theatre and a return visit from our Spanish exchange students. If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Thursday 5 March. Please telephone my PA, Ms J Saunders, on 01473 836110 to book a place. Headteacher Maéve Taylor

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SCHOOLS / SPORT HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL

CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL

We have been busy getting the garden ready to sow seeds so that we have lovely flowers and vegetables in the coming months. Our special waterproof clothing is well used as the children have been making mud pies and enjoying messy play in our mud kitchen. This allows them to develop their imagination and encourages them to talk about what they are doing. The excitement of being outside and involved in messy play gets young learners feeling even more confident about speaking and sharing their thoughts.

The children returned well rested from their Christmas break and we have welcomed some new children this term too.

We are a small, rural, friendly setting based at Henley Community Centre. We pride ourselves on the high ratio of staff to children, providing maximum care and learning. All our staff are highly trained and continue regular training to enhance their knowledge further. We provide an extensive range of resources and activities to suit all ages and abilities, ensuring all levels of development and play within the EYFS are explored. Parents play the most important role in children’s lives so we work closely in partnership with them. We also hold well supported stay and play sessions each term. We currently have limited availability for morning spaces but afternoon sessions are available. We accept eligible 30-hour funded children. These codes need to be in place the term before they are needed. Children can join us from the age of two and we accept government funded and fee paying children. We are open term time only from 9am-3pm. We have a well-supported Facebook page where you will find lots of additional information and see what the children have been doing. It’s also another way to contact the setting directly. For further information please call 07979 468467 during session time (9am3pm) or email our manager, Bridget Wyatt: enquiries@henleypreschool.com Bridget, Sarah and Kerry

We have lots of exciting things planned for this term such as Stay & Play sessions, Valentine’s Day crafts and Easter events. As we are now open all year (except bank holidays and Christmas) we can take children up to five years old for additional sessions during the school holiday weeks, subject to availability. If you would like to book days during the holidays, please contact the administration assistant for more details. We can take children who are entitled to 30 hours funding. Simply register at Childcare Choices to see if you are eligible. If you would like an application form or any further information please contact Lisa Read at: Claydon Pre-school, Old Scout Hut, Thornhill Road, Claydon IP6 0DZ / 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk

CLAYDON & DISTRICT BADMINTON CLUB Your new year may have started well but perhaps you are finding the gym a lonely place, despite being surrounded by like-minded souls. Why not change it up a bit for Fit February and get your exercise while still being in a very social atmosphere? Claydon & District Badminton Club is a social badminton club which meets on Monday nights from 7 to 9pm during school term time at Claydon High School Sports Hall. Although we are a popular club we still have some spaces available and you would be very welcome. As we have to pay for the use of the hall. Our fees are ever so slightly higher than if you booked a court for four people at the local sports centres but you don’t have to find three other people to play with and you get to play with a mixture of talents (each game has a different group). All the games are doubles and each has a different partner and opponents. Please do come along to meet us and have a few games. For more information, visit www.claydonbadminton.wordpress.com or contact our chairman, Dik Langan: 01473 831692 / claydonbadders@gmail.com

SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB MORE FUN FOR FOSS IN 2020 The Friends of Somersham School ended 2019 with its biggest committee for some time (14 parents and staff members in total) and a further £1,400 to add to the impressive 2018/19 total of more than £8,600. All the money FOSS raises is for the benefit of the pupils, improving their school environment and experiences, and FOSS are very proud to be able to support Somersham Primary School in this way. Events such as the Horrible Histories Silent Auction, the pumpkin carving competition and family quizzes help to support developments like the new patio area, the purchase of a new resources shed, iPads and equipement for the Forest School, visits to the school as well as trips away. A number of popular events are returning this year, with another murder mystery evening on Friday 6 March and family Chocolate Bingo on Friday 27 March. We also have plans to refresh last year’s new Easter Bunny Trail during the school Easter holidays.

Well, 2020 is upon us and the new outdoor season is fast approaching and, as ever, a huge amount has been going on behind the scenes at the green. Ray and his team have been busy top dressing, tining, slitting and cutting and the results are evident – the green looks fantastic and everything is looking good for our opening weekend on 18/19 April. More on that in the next issue. It’s not just the green that has been the subject of TLC. Numerous parts of the veranda roof have been replaced or repaired and the whole structure has been cleaned and re-stained. Ken has replumbed the outside taps to enable irrigation of the gardens and baskets to run independently, so expect an even better flower show during the new season. There are times when it rivals Kew Gardens! Grateful thanks to Albert and everyone else who contributes and works so hard. Other plans are afoot for the outside areas of the green – watch this space for details next time.

There’s lots more happening so watch this space for updates, visit our Facebook page or speak to one of the following to find out more:

It seems a long time ago but our dinner and dance at Bramford Golf Centre was a great night. Duo JimBob kept the dance floor packed all night so that everyone could work off a superb meal which was enjoyed by club members and guests alike. Highlights of the evening were the presentation of trophies and the handing over of the president’s chain of office from Mick Jones to Joy Mackie. Congratulations to Mick for a successful presidential year.

Chairperson Vicki Vincent: 07749 959830 Vice-chairperson Jennie Hutchinson: 07931 857471

The various leagues will be circulating fixtures soon and these will be added to the website as soon as we have them, so please look out for those.

www.facebook.com/fossnet

Full details of our club can be found at: www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com

Finally, we have set the date for this year’s summer fete – Saturday 4 July. Put it in your diaries now!

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

CHURCH NEWS BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH Minister: The Rev Derek Grimshaw; 01473 805486 / dkgrimshaw@msn.com Ms R Palmer, 01473 831117 Please contact either of us with any queries. Baptisms, marriages and funerals by arrangement with the minister, who will also arrange Holy Communion for the housebound. Sunday 10.30-11.30am: Morning Worship with Holy Communion every second Sunday 10.30-11.30am: Lighthouse Club for ages 5+ (first and third Sundays, term time only). Bible stories, painting, card making, biscuit decorating, etc. 4-6pm: Families@4, an informal get-together with afternoon tea provided and a children’s activity (see diary for theme). Come and go as you please. This is not a service but our minister usually joins us (once a month; please check diary). Monday 2-3pm: Bible Study (every third Monday) Tuesday 2-3pm: Network/MWiB, our ladies meeting, but gentlemen are always welcome (second and fourth Tuesdays from October-April and the second Tuesday from May-September) Wednesday 10am-noon: Computer Club (term time only) 7.30pm: Prayers for Healing (second Wednesday). Contact: 01473 831117

SOMERSHAM BAPTIST CHURCH The Glory of the Cross It hardly seems possible that we will soon be eating pancakes on Shrove Tuesday. Lent begins on 26 February (Ash Wednesday). Why is that important? It helps us focus on the cross and the love that God has shown in sending his Son Jesus into the world to be our saviour. Jesus is not simply an innocent victim; his death is the most glorious demonstration of God’s love to sinners. Such extreme love deserves our proper preparation. We have some free copies of Tim Chester’s book The Glory of the Cross, daily readings and prayers through lent. Just contact Mark and a copy will be delivered to you. You can view Tim introducing his book at: www.youtube/WZFIuoStCm0 You are welcome to join our regular meetings of worship and fellowship: REGULAR MEETINGS Sundays 10-10.30am: Prayer and Share 10.45-11.15am: Bible Study (Communion first Sunday) 11.30am-12.30pm: Worship Service

Thursday 3-3.30pm: United Service (very informal) at Cherryfields (first Thursday)

Refreshments are served between meetings; come when you can and leave when you want.

Saturday 10-11am: Coffee Morning at the Methodist Church or at Cherryfields (see below / third Saturday of month)

WEEKDAYS AT THE CHAPEL

FEBRUARY 2020 Sunday 2, 10.30am: Morning Worship, Rev S Yelland Thursday 6, 3pm: United Service at Cherryfields Sunday 9, 10.30am: Morning Worship/Holy Communion, Rev D Grimshaw Tuesday 11, 2pm: Network/MWiB, Rev D Grimshaw Wednesday 12: Prayers for Healing (see above) Sunday 16, 10.30am: Morning Worship, Mission in Britain Monday 17, 2pm: Bible Study Sunday 23, 10.30am: Morning Worship, Mr M Ellis Tuesday 25, 2pm: Network/MWiB – Powerpoint presentation of the Suffolk Coast with Mr and Mrs Howlett

Life Explored: 7-8.45pm on Thursday 6, 13 and 20 February There are seven Life Explored videos in the course. You are welcome to join us for a simple hot meal at 7pm, followed by the video at 7.45pm. Do come along and try it out. Friends and Neighbours: 7.45pm on Monday 17 February Lunch and Listen: Thursday 6 February at noon Pastor Mark Newcombe: 01473 831940 / 07958 830103 m.newcombe940@btinternet.com Edwin Mayhew: 01473 658100 Baptist Chapel, Chapel Lane, Somersham IP8 4QE Facebook: somershambaptistchurchsuffolk

Please note: Coffee Morning and Families@4 – to be advised

ST MARY THE VIRGIN BRAMFORD SERVICES IN FEBRUARY Sunday 2 Candlemas, Presentation of Christ in the temple 10am Communion Bramford 6pm Evening Prayer Baylham Sunday 9 Third Sunday before Lent 8am Communion Bramford 10am Communion Nettlestead 5pm 5 O’clock Service Church Room Tuesday 11 11am Communion by Reserved Sacrament, Baylham Care Centre Sunday 16 Second Sunday before Lent 8am Said Communion Bramford 10am Communion Baylham Tuesday 18 2.30pm The Gathering

Church Room

Saturday 22 10am Coffee Morning

Church Room

Sunday 23 Sunday before Lent 9am Communion Bramford Dear Friends, Soon it will be Lent, closely followed by Easter. Easter is not only a very important Christian festival, showing God’s love to us all, but is also the harbinger of spring and both aspects give us hope for the future.

The PCCs have been busy planning services, arranging the priests to conduct them and with other day to day duties as we try to carry on as normal without a vicar. I must admit that it’s enjoyable to welcome visiting priests, some of whom are old friends. We hope that during January the diocese will let us know their plans for our parishes as to a replacement priest. I am sure we will have quite a few discussions with them as nowadays replacing a priest isn’t as straightforward or easy as we would like. Be assured, the PCCs of our benefice will want the best for us all. Stewart, on behalf of the PCC PARISH REGISTERS Funerals 16 December: Denis Gilbert, Bramford We extend to his family our sympathy and prayers Floodlighting of the spire of St Mary’s Church 17 January: In memory of Philip Stewart on his birthday If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart: 01473 462231 Recycling of aerosol cans Unfortunately, the outlet we use to dispose of aerosol cans is no longer open to us so we have to cease collection. Thank you to those who have donated in the past. Cleaning Rota: V Mather & K Orvis

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