In Touch ™© ™©
with Brantham, Lawford Manningtree & Mistley
Volume 9 • Issue No. 2 • DECEMBER 2018
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I hate winter! There, I’ve said it. I’ve tried to appreciate the positives but I spend every long dark evening longing for spring, which for me starts on February 11. For this reason I love Christmas; it gives us something to look forward to and brings family and friends together with time to relax. Of course it can be an expensive time and requires a huge amount of planning, but somehow it’s always worth it. So bring it on I say! Let’s embrace this time to relax and to enjoy the company of those we may not see as regularly as we’d like. This year I’m determined to make Auntie Mary smile, even if I have to spend all day working on it. I’m going to find the perfect non-gift for the impossible aunt who says she doesn’t want or need anything, until she doesn’t get anything of course. I’m going to make the bread sauce nobody eats just so my brother can’t complain that it’s not the same without it! I’m going to discuss the timings with absolutely everyone so nobody comes to the table saying ‘I wish I’d known we were eating this early as I wouldn’t have had that fifth mince pie for breakfast’. I’m going to serve custard, brandy butter, ice cream and cream with the Christmas pudding so mum, my husband, my brother and my nephew have no cause to complain, and for those who always say ‘I don’t really like Christmas pudding’ I shall be serving chocolate mousse. My approach to Christmas present shopping has changed over the years. Where once I might have spent hours online looking for something unusual or quirky, this year I’m focused on finding more thoughtful gifts; this requires a hands-on approach so it’s local shops and markets for me this year. I’m taking the same approach with my son. We’ve been influenced by TV ads for the latest gadgets and plastic monstrosities in the past; recent mistakes include Boom Boom Balloon Game, Chippies Robot Dog, Zoomer Dino Robot Dinosaur and Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage. This year I’m determined to find things I know he will enjoy well into 2019 and I’ll be having a word with Father Christmas too. I hope this month doesn’t cause unnecessary stress in your home. Please do support local businesses and local markets in the coming weeks and together we can look forward to a Happy New Year.
InTouch
with Brantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley
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We also publish In Touch with... •B eyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge
NEWS KICKSTART YOUR CHRISTMAS WITH SOME FESTIVE JUMPER FUN! St Helena is inviting local businesses and community groups to get creative this Christmas and do a dress down day with a difference! This December the charity would like people to dress up in their most Christmassy attire and donate to help local people face incurable illness and bereavement. Corporate Fundraising Manager Sarah Wilson said: “Some may just opt for a Christmas jumper, which is great, but we love a bit of festive cheer and we would like to challenge businesses and community groups to get as artistic as possible. “This is a great way to bring colleagues together over what can be a busy season for some industries. Businesses and groups can ask members to donate as much or as little as they wish and St Helena will provide a collection bucket to collect the much needed funds.” Nantmor Blinds are very pleased to be involved with St Helena by sponsoring their Kickstart Christmas campaign this year. Terry Feek, Director of Nantmor Blinds, said: “For some years now the extent of our donations to St Helena has been limited to having a collection box in our Clacton showroom and heavily discounting any blinds that we’ve installed into their premises. While we’ve been moderately successful with our showroom box – in one three-year period we’d raised over £1,100 – we felt more could be done. My personal experience with the work St Helena does in our community is that this is an absolutely invaluable service and, given the now competitive nature of charity fundraising, it was time we did more. We’re gearing up our social media and digital presence and, especially given that we’re now entering an exciting period of growth for our company, we felt it appropriate to support this most worthy charity.” Terry added: “I was also taken aback by our staff’s enthusiasm for supporting St Helena – we’re already talking about supporting the various fundraising events through the year and planning on engaging with our staff on these as team building exercises.” To get involved in Kickstart Christmas, please contact the team at: fundraising@sthelena.org.uk / 01206 931468
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NEWS BABERGH TAKES LEAD IN SIGNING MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGE Following a decision by councilors, Babergh will become the first district or borough council in Suffolk to sign the Local Councils’ Mental Health Challenge. Councillor Luke Cresswell put the motion to the meeting of Babergh’s Council on Tuesday, October 23, calling upon the council to sign the challenge and appoint both a member champion and identify a member of staff within the council to act as lead officer for mental health. Following an amendment, proposed by Babergh Leader Councillor John Ward and supported by Councillor Cresswell, that committed the council to appoint not one but two members of staff to act as lead officers, one for internal work with Babergh staff and one for work with communities in the district, the motion was passed unanimously. The Local Councils’ Mental Health Challenge aims to encourage local authorities to take a proactive approach to this critical issue and work to promote wellbeing and mental health in their districts. The member champion will be appointed shortly and their details will be available on the Mental Health Challenge website. Councillor Luke Cresswell, who proposed the motion, said: “I am delighted that this important issue received cross-party support and I hope we can build on this in the future. Babergh is taking the lead in Suffolk in signing up to this challenge and I hope to see other councils follow our lead: every council that signs up is another district that is prioritising mental health in their communities.” Councillor John Ward, Leader of Babergh District Council, said: “While as a district council Babergh is not directly involved with health or social care provision, there is much that we can do and are already doing to create an environment that promotes mental well-being. I was proud to be able to support this motion: as the first district or borough council in Suffolk to sign up to the challenge we can take a lead in showing just how we can change our district for the better by continuing to champion mental health in all our communities.” The Local Authorities’ Mental Health Challenge is run by the Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Foundation, AMHP, Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, Royal College of Psychiatrists and YoungMinds.
Colin Michael Rice, 51, passed away on 29 October 2018 surrounded by his family within the comfort of his own home. A celebration of his life was held at St Michael’s Church in Brantham on Thursday, November 22, followed by further celebrations of memories at The Crown, Brantham. To all those who knew him, Colin was a smart, kind and happy individual who never wanted anything else when he was surrounded by his wife and three sons, always wanting to help others without needing something in return. A proud, selfless person who had time for everyone. After the past six years, his family is and always will be incredibly proud of how he pushed through and didn’t let the cancer change him.
REMEMBRANCE DAY 2018 The centenary of the armistice that ended the First World War was commemorated in Manningtree Methodist Church on Sunday, November 11 with a two-minute silence to remember the sacrifice of those who gave their lives and the naming of the 59 from Manningtree, including 37 from Manningtree Methodist Church and School, who gave their lives in service of their country. In conjunction with Manningtree Museum, the church was decorated and had a display of pictures and information of each of those who died in the First World War. The service was led by The Rev Derek Lang and included the reading of a moving letter from the present Commander of Colchester Garrison, Lieutenant Colonel Steve Caldwell RLC and a poem by Lindsay Blay. In the Church of St Mary & St Michael, Mistley with Manningtree, the centenary of the cessation of hostilities in the First World War was marked with a display of nearly 200 poppies in a cascade from the pulpit to the floor. Visitors and members of the congregation were asked to add to the display by writing on the reverse of a poppy – a remembrance of someone in their family lost in the First World War, or who perhaps survived, and also those who served in conflicts since then, or maybe a prayer or a thought about war itself. These additional poppies are placed into the foot of the cascade. This display was dismantled on Monday, November 12 as part of the There But Not There campaign. For more information contact churchwarden Joy Baker: 01206 391918 / joylesleybaker@gmail.com
BRANTHAM PARISH COUNCIL The next meeting of Brantham Parish Council will take place on December 5. Come along to find out what your parish council is up to and to raise any questions/concerns. Find out more about Brantham Parish Council: www.brantham.onesuffolk.net The site includes copies of recent parish council meeting minutes, details of upcoming events and other items of local interest. The parish council meets on the first Wednesday of every month (except August) in Brantham Village Hall at 7.30pm. The public are welcome to attend. You can contact Brantham Parish Clerk at: 07702 490212 / clerk@branthamparishcouncil.co.uk You can also follow Brantham Parish Council on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/BranthamParishCouncil Parish Clerk Surgeries Brantham Parish Clerk holds monthly surgery sessions at Bake and Blossoms café so that parishioners and others can meet her, ask questions, raise concerns or even just have a chat and a cake. This is the perfect opportunity for you to get to know your parish clerk and chat through all those local issues that have been bothering you! The next surgery is on Tuesday, December 4, 10-11.30am.
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NEWS CONSTABLE COUNTRY PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP Flu Vaccinations Members of the Patient Participation Group (PPG) have provided help with flu days for the third year running. This year has been more complicated with five different vaccines, including a separate one for the 65s and over. Add vaccinations for shingles and pneumonia for eligible patients, and it gets even more complicated!
On the FIRST week to Christmas it would really assist, if tins of potatoes and veg were on your list. On the SECOND week to Christmas it would really help our bin if you could give some ham in a tin.
This year the practice was concerned about potential problems with the supply of vaccines for each session. A brand new supplier had been awarded the contract by NHS England and there were worries about having enough of each vaccine to meet demand. Unfortunately vaccines ran out for certain groups at the second flu day in East Bergholt. Many patients were understandably upset by this, but it was beyond the control of the practice.
On the THIRD week to Christmas to help with season’s nosh, some salmon would be great as it’s so posh! On the FOURTH week to Christmas what would really be so good is a traditional and fruity Christmas pud.
Missed Appointments In October there were 133 missed appointments, which equates to 22 hours of wasted clinical time. Most of these are blood tests and appointments with the practice nurse or doctors. Now that repeat text reminders can be sent to patients closer to the appointment date, hopefully the number of missed appointments will reduce.
On the FIFTH week to Christmas some custard would be great to pour over the pudding on the plate. On the SIXTH week to Christmas there might be special buys like a box or two of lovely mince pies. On the SEVENTH week to Christmas special biscuits would be good to have with tea after the Christmas pud.
Getting an Appointment PPG members are currently monitoring the availability of appointments by ringing the surgery at set times during the day, Monday to Friday, from early morning to late afternoon. We are keeping a record and will discuss the results at our regular monthly meetings.
On the EIGHT week to Christmas some nibbles and some chocs, especially if they were in a box. On the NINTH week to Christmas some crackers and some toys to give some fun to little girls and boys.
Regular Blood Tests We know that there are still issues with getting appointments for blood tests at both surgeries. Please let us know if you are experiencing difficulties and we will take this up with the practice. Christmas and New Year The run up to Christmas is often very busy. As the weather turns colder and the coughs and colds start, you can, in the first instance, ask pharmacists for advice. Please also remember that the receptionists will do their very best to get an appointment for you, but they may need to offer alternative appointments with the GP+ service if it’s very busy. Also don’t forget that there is a volunteer driver service to take you to appointments at either of the two surgeries in Capel St. Mary and East Bergholt. Just ask the receptionist when you book your appointment. New Development in the Area We are frequently asked what plans are in place to accommodate additional patients from new housing. In the longer term the practice will need to review the facilities available at both surgeries in order to plan for the future of health care. It may be, for example, that practices will be asked to provide accommodation for outreach clinics for the merged Colchester and Ipswich hospitals. This issue will be kept under review by the practice and the PPG. Kathy Pollard, Chair Constable Country Patient Participation Group constablecountryppg@gmail.com / 01473 311384
MISTLEY PARISH COUNCIL The unapproved minutes of the Full Council meetings are displayed at the noticeboards near the Rigby Avenue/Harwich Road bus stop and outside Mistley Post Office in the High Street. The approved minutes of all meetings can be accessed online at: www.essexinfo.net/mistleypc/parish-council/meetings Dates of next meetings at 7.30pm in Mistley Village Hall Thursdays, December 6 and 27: Planning Committee Monday, December 10: Full Council
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On the tenth week to Christmas we would like to thank you all for your generosity throughout the year. Your help has meant that we have helped individuals and families in 2018 and now we can make sure that they have a better Christmas because of your help. Happy Christmas to you all.
DEATH CAFÉ The next Peninsula Death Café will be on Sunday, January 6 in The Compasses, Main Road, Holbrook. We meet for an hour and a half from 10.30am. We are very grateful to The Compasses for allowing us to use their lounge where we were made very welcome in November with tea, coffee, fresh scones and muffins. For more information about the Death Café contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777 / jane.gould@btinternet.com
FRIDAYS@THEHUB Next-door to the Mogul 10am-12.30pm: drop-in with free coffee, tea, biscuits and toys for little ones 10am-noon: Community Banking with Colchester Credit Union The Colchester Credit Union, a community bank run by volunteers for the people of Tendring and Colchester, offers straight-forward banking services: • • •
Saving by standing order or cash (no amount is too small) Withdrawals by cheque, by bank transfer or in cash (cash withdrawals over £50 need notice) Loans at reasonable rates for regular savers
Tendring District Council supports Colchester Credit Union (CCU) and pays the membership fee for new joiners. All CCU members can apply to volunteer for the Credit Union and gain useful work experience. Regular saving, even a small amount, is prudent for every household, whether on a tight budget or comfortably off.
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NEWS MANNINGTREE TOWN COUNCIL The minutes of Manningtree Town Council meetings are available on their website, on the two town noticeboards (one at the Co-op Fiveways store and one beside the library) and at the clerk's office by appointment: 01206 390285 www.manningtreetowncouncil.org.uk
Lawford Parish Council You can read council minutes on the parish council noticeboards and at: www.essexinfo.net/lawford-parish-council Minutes can be collected from the parish office by prior arrangement as the offices are not open to the public.
LAWFORD – WHAT’S IT ALL ABOUT? For the last few years Lawford Parish Council has combined the Annual Parish Meeting with a ‘Clubs and Societies’ evening, a chance for local people to discover what goes on in our village. Next year, we are planning something along the same lines, but with an extra ‘ingredient’. Lawford Life: Monday 15 April 2019 Lawford Parish Council is asking local clubs and societies, crafters and small businesses to come together at the Annual Meeting to promote themselves, acquire new members and promote what Lawford has to offer. Last year we had a variety of stallholders, from ‘The Hub’, Debbie Millar Dance, the bowls club, local history group, First Responders and many others. This year the meeting is being held at the Venture 2000 Centre on Bromley Road on Monday, April 15 from 6.30pm, when the formal meeting starts. The stalls will be open from 7pm. Refreshments will be served by your parish councillors, a chance to meet, possibly for the last time, your councillors as there is a council election in May 2019. The parish meeting is about your parish; if you live in Lawford or the surrounding area do please come along. If your club would like a table at this free event please contact Lawford Parish Council for an application form. Spaces are limited and the parish council hope to arrange a varied evening for you all. Contact details: 01206 395898 / lawfordpc@btconnect.com Lawford Parish Councillor Julie Langstone
MISTLEY RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB Mistley Rugby Union Football Club will be holding their annual Christmas Fair on Sunday, December 2 between 10am and 2pm. There will be a wide range of stalls giving inspiration for that perfect Christmas gift. Refreshments will be available as well as homemade cakes, a tombola stall and a raffle, with lots of prizes for all ages. There will be face painting and other interesting ideas for the children, a real family event. Free entry and free parking. For more information contact Kelly: floss_kelly@hotmail.com / 07889 219913
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NEWS BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR ALASTAIR MCCRAW REPORT TO PARISHES, ALTON WARD: Taylor Wimpey Exhibition in Brantham By now we’ve had the opportunity to see proposals for housing here. The event was very well attended with a constant stream of people. Questions were asked and useful information obtained. Much was about the general intentions, time frame, access and the effect on individual properties. I hope that some of you were, at least slightly, reassured that we can talk to the developers. Keeping lines of communication open is going to be vital. Suggestions were listened to as they have a vested interest in making things work. Now a formal application will be being prepared and submitted. That application will contain a lot of detail, but the parish council and myself are well placed to examine it fully. You should be kept fully informed at each stage. The public consultation can be expected around the New Year. It might come to a committee as soon as early spring. I was told that in 2019 we’ll see enabling works to get ready. The access points both north and south, Amy’s Roundabout and the route to the station all require work to be done as an existing condition. Attention is needed in the woods between Merriam Close and Decoy Pond. I’ll be looking to minimise adverse impacts in all this. Again, it is in the owners’ interest to co-operate with the community. Taylor Wimpey are looking at September as a possible start point. Homes and Homelessness Strategy Babergh are carrying out a consultation on these, closing at noon on December 7. They’re not really very complicated. The four areas of focus are: • Increasing new homes delivery (but the right homes in the right places) • Increasing housing options for older households and those requiring accessible homes • Ensuring current housing stock is fit for 21st century living • Supporting the most vulnerable households to find and sustain a home This is our ‘wish list’. It’s what we will use to guide the council in what it encourages developers and any partners to provide. As I’ll explain, the actual delivery of homes is not much within our control. The Homelessness Strategy summarises what we’re already doing under the Homelessness Reduction Act. A council’s responsibilities in this area have been raised. Six months in and expecting a doubling of workload, we’ve found an even larger amount to do. I’m glad to say that we seem to be rising to the challenge, but it’s never going to be easy.
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE MANIFEST THEATRE Our Christmas get together is on Saturday, December 15 from 7.30pm. Enjoy a fun quiz, seasonal nibbles and other exciting things! Tuesday, December 11, 7.30pm: Christmas Concert at The Manifest Theatre, 2 Oxford Road, Manningtree CO11 1BP If you enjoy listening to traditional and popular music, come along to listen to the amazing Grace Notes Community Choir performing a varied programme including favourite Christmas songs. For tickets, please contact Sue Halsey on 01206 230426 (from 5pm) any day or email davehalsey@supanet.com with your contact details and ticket requirements. Ticket are £5, plus £2 for nonmembers which will cover theatre membership for 2019.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT WITH SPECRTUM LADIES CHOIR Specrtum Ladies Choir will be holding a Christmas concert at Manningtree Methodist Church on Sunday, December 2 at 2.30pm followed by festive refreshments. Tickets are £6 from 07867546484.
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Planning in General The above two items dovetail together. We can produce strategies for an ideal world. The actual world we live in has a different feel. Our strategies will inform and feed into our own planning policies. Babergh & Mid Suffolk are in the middle of producing a Joint Local Plan. The policies in should be used to decide planning applications for years to come (mind you, they said that about the 2013 Core Strategy!). But there are currently three levels of planning policy in England and Wales. The National Policy (NPPF) set by the government, and overwhelmingly in favour of granting permissions. The Local Policy (Babergh’s current Core Strategy), which must conform to the NPPF, but can be more focussed on local needs and specify for them. Neighbourhood Plans (Stutton are preparing) which can further define on a highly local basis. However, they must conform to the two higher levels. These are not a means of stopping development but of making it fit better. Planning decisions often come down to ‘Yes with conditions’ (usually lots of them) or ‘No’. If no, then only the applicant may appeal against the decision. If yes, the applicant has a massive amount of leeway on when to actually do something. They often sit on them, having already increased the value of the land massively. We can’t produce delivery, in English law. A strategy is a good thing to have, but it doesn’t make things happen. A Ward of Awards There’s been some local recognition for Alton recently. Stutton Community Shop won the Babergh Community Group of the Year Award, a deserved accolade for all the volunteers involved. Brantham is the 2018 Most Active Large Village in Suffolk (again: also won in 2014), succeeding Shotley. And the Tattingstone Wheatsheaf is still the current Ipswich & East Suffolk CAMRA Pub of the Year. I like to be able to keep you in touch as much as possible, so please consider joining the Facebook group. It has the huge advantage of being immediate. It is likely there will be a relaunch of the group shortly. Meanwhile, have a Merry Christmas. Alastair McCraw 07812 564188 / alastair.mccraw@babergh.gov.uk Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw & Harriet Steer (a joint open group)
MANNINGTREE LIBRARY Family History Taster Session The fourth Thursday of the Month from 4pm. • Research your family history • Pick up hints and tips • Access to free library resources Basic Computer Coaching Tuesday mornings from 11am and Thursday afternoons from 4pm. • Need help with online banking, setting up an email account, creating a CV, Blue Badge applications, booking flights or any online services • General hints and tips on using computers, tablets and laptops Adult Craft and Knitting Group First Tuesday of the month from 2-4pm. A casual group for everyone. Bring along your own project and share ideas with other crafters For bookings and further information visit Manningtree library or telephone Essex Libraries: 0345 603 7628
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OUT & ABOUT SHINE A LIGHT – CAROLS AT CHRISTMAS Saturday, December 22, 4.30pm at Pond Cottage, Heath Road, Bradfield CO11 2XD Please join us for Christmas fun at our fundraising event in aid of SHINE, the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus charity which has supported our daughter Emilia. Sing some (choir-led) carols and enjoy traditional mince pies and hot mulled wine/fruit juice. No ticket required; just turn up. For enquiries phone: 07545 704759 Families are welcome. Please bring a torch, warm clothes and an umbrella. Donations to be collected on the day, or donate via: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/shinecarols18 www.shinecharity.org.uk
CONSTABLE SINGERS Our Christmas music will be performed at Dove Close, Capel St Mary on Friday, November 30 at 7pm, at a charity event at Bypass Nurseries in Capel St Mary on Friday, December 7 at 5.30pm, the Christmas Bazaar in Constable Hall, East Bergholt on Sunday, December 9 between 11am and 4pm, and on Sunday, December 9 at The Cross Inn, Bromley at 6.30pm. We welcome new singers, especially sopranos, to join us; no audition, words provided, first session free. We sing to enjoy ourselves at Lambe School in East Bergholt each Thursday of the month from 7pm, apart from the second Thursday when we meet at the Congregational Hall in East Bergholt. We sing music from the musicals and various popular songs. We currently have members ages 16 to 80. For more information, contact Mel (01206 298628) or Yvonne (01206 298428).
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Stratford St Mary Church CO7 6LS Launch Party Friday, December 14, 7.30pm / Tickets £5 Afternoon Tea Saturday, December 15, 2.30-5pm Enjoy beautifully decorated trees Sample the best of SSM’s bakers Join in with Carols Creative gifts also available
BRANTHAM AMATEUR THEATRICAL SOCIETY Presenting Off to Treasure Island, a swashbuckling adventure by Lisa Butley, at Brantham Village Hall from February 20-23 with evening performances at 7.30pm and a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets (£9 / children £6) available from December 1 at Bakes & Blossoms and at: www.ticketcource.co.uk
ACORN VILLAGE CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE Come and join us at the Acorn Village Christmas Carol Service on Thursday, December 20 at 11am in the Oakroom at Acorn Village. Everyone is welcome to join the friendly and relaxed Carol Service. With music from the Sounds Alive Christian band, this is a service for all with a chance to reflect on the year and sing along to some well-known hymns and Christmas songs.
EVENTS AT MISTLEY PARISH CHURCH Mistley Parish Church is the venue for two very attractive musical events in December. First on December 1 at 2.30pm, Stour Choral Society’s Christmas Concert (see page 13). Followed on December 5 at 1.45pm and again at 7pm when four local primary school choirs and musicians combine for the Magic of Christmas Music. Admission on December 5 is free, but a ticket is required which can be booked at 01206 395263.
We at Acorn Village would like to thank you for all of your support this year to help raise vital funds for adults with learning disabilities by supporting the charity shops, events, using the onsite coffee shop, buying pre-loved furniture, using the facilities in the creative craft centre, donating items or by financial donations. Acorn Village would not be the place it is today without you! Visit our website and social media pages for more events coming up. www.acornvillages.com
BRANTHAM BOX OFFICE Film Night Wednesdays at Brantham Village Hall Doors open at 7, film starts at 7.30pm Wednesday, December 19 WHITE CHRISTMAS
ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET The next market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, December 8, 9am-12.30pm. Come and get those hard to find Christmas presents and hear the carol singers. Of course we will also have all your favourite market stalls; fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items which make ideal presents.
Tickets cost £5 in advance from Bakes and Blossoms café, £5.50 on the door, £3 for under-16s Refreshments available on the night Facebook.com/BranthamBoxOffice
East End Butchers are pleased to be the market’s resident meat supplier. If you would like to place on order with them it can be collected at the market each month. Their number for orders is 01206 392190. Come along to mingle with your friends, have a cup of coffee and a bacon buttie and enjoy the lovely venue. New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777
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OUT & ABOUT A CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS Saturday, December 15, 6.30pm at St Mary’s Church, Hadleigh Come and join Hadleigh Choral Society for traditional carols (with some for the audience to join in), readings and Christmas songs by Serendipity. The concert is free, but there will be a retiring collection in aid of the Ansell Memories Cafe run weekly for people living with dementia and their carers.
STOUR CHORAL SOCIETY Stour Choral Society will perform The Manchester Carols, an inspired collaboration between composer Sasha Johnson Manning and Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, at Mistley Parish Church on Saturday December 1 at 2.30pm. A collection of 12 carols, linked with a gentle, entertaining narration, these carols are for everybody, for the believer and non-believer, for people of various faiths and simply for the curious. The concert will also include a selection of audience participation traditional carols. Solists: Jemima Whatling (Soprano) and Gary Griffiths (Baritone) Conductor: Duncan Archard (Duncan’s last concert as conductor) Accompanist: Stephen Smith
EAST BERGHOLT HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
Tickets are £10 and available from SCS members, 01206 392820 or Howell’s Hardware Shop, High Street, Manningtree.
INDOOR CAR BOOT SALE
NEW YEAR’s CONCERT
East Bergholt High School Sunday, February 24, 10am-noon
From Bach to the Beatles with Elmtree Music
Admission 50p / Refreshments Available Free Car Park
St Lawrence Church, Bradfield Saturday, January 19 at 7.30pm
Tables £5 in advance, £7.50 on the day
Piano, Harpsichord, Guitar, Brass, Woodwind and Voice
Doors open 9am to set up ( 07776 291445
Tickets (£10) from 01255 870681 / normabarrow@btinternet.com Interval Refreshments
MANNINGTREE & DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
Proceeds to St Lawrence Church and Rotary Supported Charities
On October 8 we enjoyed a very informative evening learning how to put our images to music and add sound effects with Keith Leedham FRPS, EFIAP, FIPF. Our first competition of the season on October 25 was Open Colour which attracted a good number of very high standard images, including Stinking Iris Seedpod by Ann Laverock (below) one of the winning entries. All the winning images can be viewed on our website. December meetings are a competition entitled Dereliction and Decay on December 6 and our Christmas social on December 13. Meetings are held twice monthly on the second and fourth Thursday evenings at 7.30pm at the St John’s Ambulance Centre, Station Road, Manningtree CO11 1EB. A number of informal rookie club evenings are also arranged where members can refresh their skills and share experiences. New members are welcome to join us or may attend initially as a visitor. Please contact our secretary for details: 01206 393751 / madps@post.com www.manningtreeanddistrictphotographicsociety.co.uk
TEA & SUPPORT Tea & Support, the friendship and self-help group formed some five years ago for those who have been bereaved or are living alone, meets on the third Wednesday afternoon of each month from 2-4pm, normally in the Church Hall, New Road, Mistley. We have a talk or activity followed by an opportunity to chat over tea and home-made cake. Several times a year we have an outing to somewhere local for either lunch or afternoon tea. To cover our costs for transport we ask our members for a donation of £1 each per meeting attended. Please note we don’t have a meeting in December, but members of Tea & Support are warmly welcomed to the Community Christmas Lunch on Wednesday, December 12 (please note that this is not the third Wednesday). For further information please contact Joy or John Baker on 01206 391918, or for transport please call Paskell’s on 01206 396709. The 2019 programme will be available after Christmas.
COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS LUNCH 2018 We’re drawing closer to this event and at the time of writing (November 10) already have 55 names on the list! This year the event will be held on Wednesday, December 12, 12.45 for 1pm and will offer the traditional, home-cooked, full Christmas Lunch with wine, desserts, coffee and mints, plus carol singing to round off the afternoon. A vegetarian alternative will be available on request, as will transport if booked in advance. We are open to anyone in the local community, especially those living alone, the elderly or infirm. Most of the ingredients for lunch are locally sourced, except the wine which has already been purchased in France. The generosity of our suppliers and helpers means we can still offer the lunch at cost price – just £5 per person. Please contact Joy and John Baker on 01206 391918 to secure your place. We can only cater for 75 people, so call us today!
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OUT & ABOUT MANNINGTREE FIT CLUB Open to anyone looking to lead a healthy active lifestyle. Every Wednesday evening from 7-8pm at Mistley Village Hall. Contact: Bridie 07403 316735 / Tanya 07920 76245 Follow us on Facebook at: Manningtree Fit Club
LAWFORD WEA: WILDLIFE HAVENS OF THE UK Discover a range of wildlife habitats, flora and fauna found in the UK, shown through seasoned slides, including landscapes, nature reserves, birds and insects. Explore cliff dwelling seabirds and plants of the south coast, orchids and butterflies of the Kent Downs, wildlife and nature reserves of the New Forest, East Anglia, the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands and islands. Nine afternoon sessions (2.30-4pm) with tutor Alex Bass, starting on Monday, January 7 at Manningtree Methodist Hall, South Street, Manningtree CO11 1BQ. The course fee is £49.28; if you receive certain benefits you may be entitled to a free course. Book today: enrolonline.wea.org.uk / 0300 303 3464 / 01206 547405
STOUR VALLEY LADIES PROBUS CLUB Stour Valley Ladies Probus Club meets at The Haywain, Bentley Road, Little Bromley at 10am on the first and third Thursday in each month, except August. The first meeting in the month includes lunch and the second is a coffee morning. At each meeting there is a general interest speaker. The aim of our club is to encourage interest and fellowship among our members, all of whom are retired and have a lively and informed outlook on life. New members are welcome and anyone interested in attending a coffee morning should contact our president, Jill Nicholls: 01206 393680
STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB Recently we were privileged to have Sally Chicken introduce The Regeneration of Shotley Pier. Sally is one of a committee focused upon bringing Suffolk’s only railway pier back to life and unfortunately were recently refused planning permission for their plans. Peter James talk about The Great Essex Earthquake and Jo Harrison’s talk entitled Going Underground were also much enjoyed by members. Our December meeting features Brantham’s famous quizmaster Paul Oliver presenting his now famous Christmas Quiz with a valuable prize for the winner! We hold our New Year Lunch at The popular Haywain on February 6 when our spouses and Probus widows join us for what will be an enjoyable event and a tasty meal. Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs and involve members at minimal cost. The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other and the opportunity for development of acquaintances. New members are welcomed. We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB at 10.30am. For further details please contact speaker secretary Dave Carman: 01255 880202
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MANNINGTREE ROTARY CLUB PLASTIC BAG FREE CAMPAIGN The campaign by Manningtree Rotary Club to see the end of the use of plastic carrier bags is moving forward. We have had a lot of support from members of the public and now have the full support of Manningtree Town Council. Just a thought: when you are out shopping and grab that plastic bag, take it home, put your shopping away, put it in the waste bin, think, is that the end of the story? Not quite! They tell us that the humble plastic shopping bag gets an average of 12 minutes use, but the majority of them will be around for 100 years. So please support us by not buying or accepting plastic bags (including used) from businesses in town. Thank you. Ruth Stocks, the Mayor of Manningtree, is pictured showing her support for our campaign.
STOUR VALLEY U3A Our meeting on November 14 featured Davis Simmonds, a National Trust speaker and volunteer, introducing The Coast of East Anglia. The East Anglian coast is full of contrasts and has much beauty, history and wildlife. His presentation focused on National Trust coastal properties in Essex and Suffolk. We don’t have a speaker meeting in December, but hold our popular Christmas Lunch, this time at the Best Western Hotel in Copdock on Wednesday, December 5. This is always a very popular event so early booking is advised. On Wednesday, January 9 Sally Dearman will present Woman Can Fly. This is the story of one women’s journey from jumping out of a landing window, then out of planes, to becoming a civil pilot and the first women through the RAF’s fast-jet flying trains system. Each month The Coffee Grinders meet at The Lambe School, Gaston Street, East Bergholt CO7 6SD from 10am to noon. This meeting especially welcomes new members and gives all members the opportunity to meet the activity group leaders and the committee while enjoying a cup of coffee. The next meeting is on Friday, December 28. Our main purpose is to encourage lifelong learning for those who are no longer in full time employment and emphasis is always placed on making learning active and fun as well as helping in developing friendships. In the main, membership is drawn from communities in the lower Stour Valley and adjacent areas including Brantham, Capel St Mary, Dedham, East Bergholt, Holbrook, Lawford, Manningtree, Raydon and Stratford St Mary. We are affiliated to the ThirdAge Trust, have over 260 members and 21 groups. For further information please visit www.stourvalleyu3a.org.uk where membership secretary Gillian Gibbs may be contacted. We meet at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 which entitles members to attend meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, except in December.
MANNINGTREE POETRY GROUP The next meeting of Poetry Plus will take place at 7.30pm on Tuesday, December 11 at the Red Lion, South Street, Manningtree. All those interested in poetry are invited to attend either to listen to the spoken word or to read poetry themselves. Some people will be reading their own poetry and some will choose to read the work of other poets. There is no admission charge. To keep up-to-date please visit: www.poetryplus.org.uk
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A warm welcome guaranteed Bentley Road, Little Bromley, CO11 2PL www.thehaywain.co.uk | 01206 390004
BREAKFAST |LUNCH | DINNER | FUNCTION ROOM HIRE Enjoy a meal in front of our fire in the pub, in our private dining room or our large function room - Perfect for parties and corporate events
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OUT & ABOUT VILLAGE LINK CLUB Wednesday, December 12, 10am at Tattingstone Village Hall: Life as a Tudor Housekeeper Instead of our usual raffle, please bring a small wrapped present if you would like to take part in our tombola. Also bring a small plate of food to share with tea/coffee after the talk. The club aims to bring communities together and we have over the years attracted members from many villages, men and women of various ages. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month from 10amnoon. I would like to welcome back any former members and to see new members from all local villages, either as visitors or members in readiness for our 25th anniversary celebration in 2019. Chairman Linda Evans: 01473 311262
ARDLEIGH WEA The 10-week spring course, The First World War by Roger Cooke, begins at Great Bromley Village Hall (Parsons Hill, Great Bromley CO7 7JA) on Thursday, January 17, 2.30-4pm. The course will explore the causes and course of the most bloody battlefield war in history. The course fee is £54.75 and you can book online at: http://wea-essex.org.uk Alternatively, just turn up for the first week and see if it is the course for you. For more details contact Jill Frostick: 01026 250263 / jill@frostick.net John Terry: 01206 397101 / john@terrys.org.uk
ORWELL DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY Join us at 2.15pm on Wednesday, December 5 when Libby Hornet will give a fascinating multi-media talk entitled Bread & Circuses – Fun, Frolics and Freak Shows. Libby, a well-known freelance art historian, curator, film producer, lecturer and writers, will combine art (Laura Wright, Georges Roualt) songs, music, photographs and quotes from writers and poets in her presentation. We hope to meet you at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew. Entrance by donation / £6. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
LAWFORD & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY Brian Carline was an excellent speaker at our latest meeting. A former headteacher, he knew how to keep the audience focused while he gave out many tips about growing vegetables, flowers and fruit. He also knew the importance of humour to keep us interested. Many of his tips were completely knew to us, but were the result of his own experiments, e.g. diluted Listerine will remove and deal with rust on your Fuchsias. (I wonder how that came about!) Anyway it was a very interesting evening and I think quite a few people will be using his methods in future. We don’t meet in December or January, but the committee has already organised next year’s speakers. We always welcome ideas and comments from members so if you have any for 2020 please speak to one of the committee. Take some time over the next couple of months to reassess your garden and perhaps plan some changes. Write them down somewhere you will find them again. Taking some photographs is very handy, as is reading magazines and books (gardening ones obviously). The committee of LDHS wish all members and friends a very Happy Christmas and New Year and look forward to seeing you in 2019.
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ON THE GRAPEVINE
WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR THE STARS OF BABERGH AND MID SUFFOLK AWARDS The winners of the Stars of Babergh and Mid Suffolk Awards have been announced following a night of glamour and celebrations on Thursday, October 18.
Community Project of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Inspire Suffolk’s Princes Trust Team at Stowmarket Finalist: Search for the Stars
The finalists gathered at St Mary’s Church in Hadleigh for a star-studded event to celebrate their outstanding efforts in the community. The awards received over 150 entries and the church was packed with businesses and individuals who have all played a vital role in making the districts what they are today.
Sporting Achievement of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Sudbury Cricket Club Finalist: Kelly Mires, Hadleigh Stars Gymnastics
FULL LIST OF WINNERS AND FINALISTS Business in the Community Award – Babergh Winner: Manish Patel, Shotley Stores Winner: Mukunthan Thurairajah (Muku) Business in the Community Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Cabbages & Kings and the Mix Finalist: Orbital Media Business Growth Award – Babergh Winner: Suffolk Market Events Finalist: Hollingsworths Store & Butchers, Chelmondiston Finalist: Stour Sort & Sparkle Business Growth Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Ocala Finalist: C&K Meats Ltd Community Group of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Stutton Community Shop CIC Finalist: Ansell Memories Café Community Group of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Information Line Volunteers – Suffolk Family Carers Winner: Talk & Support Volunteers – Suffolk Family Carers Community Spirit of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Joes Golf & Activity Park Finalist: Shotley & Erwarton Good Neighbour Scheme Community Spirit of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Redgrave Community Society Finalist: Radio Stradbroke Best Community Achievement Award – Babergh Winner: Team Together Tuesday Finalist: Kernos Centre (KERNOS) Best Community Achievement Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Courthouse Café Volunteers Finalist: Stradbroke Good Neighbours Community Project of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Lavenham Community Land Trust Finalist: Diane Chase & Audrey Lorford, producers of Hintlesham & Chattisham, The Story of Two Suffolk Villages
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Sporting Achievement of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Mark Trent, Scorpion Martial Arts Academy Finalist: Tim Carr, Claydon FC Community Champion of the Year Award – Babergh Winner: Norman Bugg, Community Volunteer Finalist: Janet Dicks, Hollywood, Ansell Centre, Hadleigh Community Champion of the Year Award – Mid Suffolk Winner: Irene Davis, Community Volunteer Finalist: Roger Rehan, Founding Trustee of Mid Suffolk CA Finalist: David Goodlad, Community Volunteer Volunteer of the Year – Babergh Winner: Will Hunt, Cornard Dynamos Finalist: Jane Snowdon, Community Volunteer Volunteer of the Year - Mid Suffolk Winner: Carol Prybus & Chris Brook, Stowmarket Rookery Bowls Group Special Recognition – Babergh Winner: Caroll Reeve, Lavenham Community Volunteer Special Recognition - Mid Suffolk Winner: Kat Terry, Community Volunteer Overall Star – Babergh Winner: Will Hunt, Cornard Dynamos Overall Star - Mid Suffolk Winner: Redgrave Community Society Councillor Julie Flatman, Mid Suffolk District Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “Last night was about celebrating the real heroes and heroines who’ve done so much in our districts. We feel so proud to be able to offer these awards to recognise such outstanding achievements. We couldn’t have done it without any of our nominees or sponsors so well done to everyone involved.” Councillor Margaret Maybury, Babergh District Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “We’ve been able to celebrate those who do amazing things throughout our towns and villages, often unnoticed. This exciting and important work helps our communities thrive and makes a big impact in out districts. The look on people’s faces last night when they received their awards made the event and I’m sure that the happiness and memories will resonate long after the music and lights went down. Congratulations to all.
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IN-HOUSE PRODUCTION AT OUR FACTORY
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SCHOOLS / SPORT MANNINGTREE HIGH SCHOOL Manningtree High School marked the 100 year anniversary of the end of the Great War by creating a display in which the entire school community were involved. Every student and member of staff was given a poppy on which they wrote a personal message. Some students researched their family history and dedicated their poppy to a relative who was killed in action. The 800 poppies were joined by silhouettes of soldiers created by the technology department. Some students chose to plant white, black and purple poppies to reflect all those who had been affected by war. The display shone in the evening sun and then the ghostly presence of the soldiers appeared at night silently guarding the display. Staff, students and parents commented on how effective and moving the display was.
THE APPRENTICE BECOMES A MASTER By providing apprenticeships, companies are developing skills in the labour market. With those newfound skills, important to the apprentice is whether the firm then goes on to offer opportunities. Natural food ingredient producers EDME are committed to bringing aboard young people with the right attitude, helping them to realise their potential and offering them career opportunities. Jordan Peck was given an apprentice role in the EDME laboratory, working four days a week, with a fifth reserved for studying at a local college. His studies concluded, he has now been appointed as a full time, fully qualified lab technician. “Apprentices have a lot to learn when they first start,” says laboratory manager Gavin Mulligan. “On top of all the technical skills and quality control processes, there’s the more general – but still crucial – stuff about how organisations work, who the customers are and how we meet their expectations. “Jordan has shown a real commitment and ability to learn, and during his apprenticeship proved that he could become a valuable member of the team. We’re very happy to have seen him progress. His promotion is testament to his hard work. It also shows that apprenticeship programmes can work really well when you have the right candidates and the right training in place.” Jordan is part of the team that ensures every last ounce of wholegrain or gluten-free flour, and every last malted flake leaving the gates meets the highest of food standards. On top of this, in his expanded capacity, he will be investigating and testing new and existing EDME products - and working on innovating processes and formulations. Says Jordan: “You’re on a steep learning curve when you’re an apprentice – and although I’m never going to stop learning, I feel like I’ve earned my keep. It’s fun being trusted enough to be given an element of control when you’re still young. I’ve now got quite a lot of responsibility and will definitely be taking that very seriously. But that shouldn’t stop me from enjoying it!”
BRANTHAM FOOTBALL CLUB Brantham Athletic is a local football club which runs a senior section, junior section, Sunday and ladies teams. Our home ground is Brantham Leisure Centre, New Village, Brantham. Since November’s issue the joint managers of the 1st team have moved on to pastures new and we now have a new management team in place with Ben Swann assisted by senior players Craig Hughes and Jack Sibbons. We wish them well in these roles. Congratulations to the club’s management for a seamless transition. On the field results have been very mixed for all three senior sides, but the performances have been good and it is hoped that results will start to improve. The 1st team at present sit in sixth place, but with games in hand. I will remind supporters that the 1st team have a home match on Boxing Day, kicking off at 11am at the leisure centre, WE hope to see you there. Forthcoming home matches will be publicised on the website and on Twitter. As soon as fixtures are received they will be published. There is also a thriving junior section with ages ranging from Under-7 to Under-16. Our Sunday teams play their matches on Sunday mornings at the leisure centre whilst our ladies team play on Sunday afternoons at the centre,
EDME creates nutritious flours and flakes for the bakery and wider food industries, and is the first in the UK to supply gluten-free flours at less than five parts per million. As the company’s managing director Metin Fevzi points out, this means rigorous quality controls and meticulous attention to detail. “We ask a lot of our team members at every level and want to see them broadening their skills and developing their capabilities. Jordan has done just that. Congratulations to him on his new appointment.”
CAPEL PLOUGH FOOTBALL CLUB There was a good turnout for the funeral of club official Ian Powell on Thursday, November 8 at Seven Hills Crematorium. Ian had worked for almost 40 years behind the scenes for the club that he loved and will be missed by all that knew him. Ian passed away knowing that the First team were top of the Senior Division in the Suffolk and Ipswich League, going top on October 6 after a thrilling 4-3 win away to Claydon thanks to goals from Joe Bigmore, Anthony Jackson and a brace from Shaun Webb. The team recorded a 2-1 win at Benhall St Mary with goals from Danny Garrard and Daniel Page, and despite defeats against Felixstowe United (3-2) and East Bergholt (3-1) they remained top of the league. The Senior Cup game away to Leiston St Margarets was won 3-0 with goals from Kieran Lawler and a brace from Sean Gunn, with the side travelling to play Haverhill Borough from the Eastern Counties League in the next round. Our young Reserve side are having a mixed season, winning 1-0 against Coplestonians A before losing 4-3 against Cockfield with our scorers Daniel Hudson-Smith and a brace from Jack Reddington. They then lost 1-0 against Benhall St Mary after a close game.
The 1st team play their home matches at the leisure centre, kicking-off at 3pm on a Saturday and at 7.45pm on a weekday evening. The A team play at Raydon. The Under-18s play on a weekday evening, 7.45pm kick-off.
Our Sunday morning side beat Greshams 5-2 with Abdul Kaium scoring three of the goals, but lost 4-0 against Felixstowe Rangers, then 2-1 against Shotley with Stirling Mayes our scorer, while our Veteran side were beaten 4-0 at Bacton, but bounced back beating Coplestonians 3-0.
www.branthamleisurecentre.com / Twitter: @branthamath
BOB THE PLOUGHMAN
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CHURCH NEWS BENEFICE OF EAST BERGHOLT AND BRANTHAM Rector: The Rev Canon Stephne van der Toorn 01206 392646 / revstephvdt@googlemail.com www.constablecountrychurches.co.uk SERVICES IN DECEMBER Sunday 2: Advent 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 11am Benefice Communion, Brantham 4pm Family@Church, East Bergholt Monday 3 10.30am St Michael’s and BYE Nativity Rehearsal, Brantham Wednesday 5 9.30am BCP Communion, East Bergholt Thursday 6 9am Christingle at School, East Bergholt 10.30am EBYE Nativity, East Bergholt
RAMBLING RECTOR FOLLOW THE STAR Speaking at an assembly recently I reminded the children that walking along a crowded area with your mobile jammed on the end of your nose is no way to show respect for other pedestrians. Coco and I have often been forced to stop completely because the person approaching us is as unaware of us as I am of them, but with less excuse. It amazes me that we can’t manage without our phones even while walking quickly along a busy street, and more worryingly while we are driving (which is an offence if it is a handheld gadget). My own need to check my emails 50 times a day if I am out and about must be confessed here. It does make you wonder how those wise men long ago travelled so far over field and fountain, moor and mountain without the assistance of Google Maps, leaving frank comments on the service they received at the Wayside Inn: “Delicious bean stew last night, pity about the bed bugs!”
Sunday 9: Advent 2 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 10am EBYE Nativity Family Service, East Bergholt 11am Communion, Brantham Monday 10 10.30am BYE Nativity, Brantham 9am-3pm All-day High School Rehearsal, East Bergholt Tuesday 11 6pm High School Carol Service, East Bergholt Friday 14 11.30am
Toddler Party, East Bergholt
Sunday 16: Advent 3 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 11am St Michael’s and BYE Nativity, Brantham 3pm Carols by Candlelight, East Bergholt Tuesday 18 9.30am East Bergholt Primary Assembly, East Bergholt Thursday 20 2pm Brooklands Church Assembly, Brantham 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight, Brantham Sunday 23: Advent 4 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 10am Communion, East Bergholt 11am Communion, Brantham Monday 24: Christmas Eve 3pm Christingle, Brantham 3pm Children’s Candlelit Service, East Bergholt 5pm Children’s Candlelit Service, East Bergholt 10pm Nearly Midnight Mass, East Bergholt 11.30pm Midnight Mass, Brantham Tuesday 25: Christmas Day 9.30am Christmas Communion, East Bergholt 9.30am Christmas Communion, Brantham Sunday 30 10am Benefice BCP Communion (Said), East Bergholt Sunday, January 6: Epiphany 8am BCP Communion, East Bergholt 11am Benefice Communion, Brantham 4pm Family@Church, East Bergholt Check the website for details. There is a BCP Communion every Sunday in East Bergholt at 8am, except between Christmas and New Year. Choral Matins is on the fourth Sunday in East Bergholt.
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Whatever the star was that they followed (and the debate is still open on this), it certainly brought them to their destination. A baby in a manger who would change people’s lives forever, if they let him. Not a megalomaniac with a hugely inflated opinion of himself with a need to call others names to make himself feel better, not someone wanting to get to the top no matter what the cost to others, not one who told the truth only when forced to do so. He was born in a stable, called us his beloved brothers and sisters, humbled himself even to death and embodied and lived the truth. Following this star is a good idea, even today! The Manningtree Foodbank is asking for food to make up Christmas parcels. We are asking for donations of mince pies, tinned ham, Christmas puddings, nice biscuits (description – not a brand name) and chocolate. Please could you leave them in the church porch in the basket provided by December 10? Thank you very much. Please do not donate baked beans! For some reason our thoughts automatically turn to them and there is a limit to the number of beans you can safely eat. Ask the wise men! Rev Steph
BIG CHRISTMAS CARD Instead of sending Christmas cards to people you will see anyway, why not sign the big card at the back of the church and donate the money you would have used on postage and stationary to Ipswich Night Shelter? Place your donation in an envelope marked Night Shelter and hand it in at church.
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CHURCH NEWS
Welcome to Manningtree Benefice, an all-age Anglican Church, meeting in St Lawrence Church, Bradfield, and St Mary & St Michael’s Church, Mistley. It’s December and therefore there’s a decent chance that you don’t really feel like you’ve got time to read this because you’ve got far too much to do, whether it’s shopping and planning and cooking and crafting, whether you can’t face Christmas in a world where fear and lies appear to be the order of the day, or whether you’re up to your eyes in worrying about how to make a Christmas out of impossible circumstances. Because let’s be honest – Christmas is hard work, and no amount of sparkling snow or working fairy-light bulbs or perfectly cooked sprouts or brilliantly chosen presents will make up for loneliness, worries or sorrows. We all sometimes find ourselves in our own silent night, with no certainty about what the morning will bring, which no amount of tinsel or carols will fix. But we have such good news: we have a God who cares about us, even in our darkest nights. He cares so much that he came to Earth to be with us, to meet us where we are and to stand with us in our bleakest moments. Even now, whatever you are facing, know that God gave up the glory of heaven because he loves you. Christmas means that even now, we can rejoice. So please join us this Christmas to worship, to wonder, to ask questions, and to listen for the angels. We will be holding lots of different services and events this Christmas, and you are so welcome to all of them... On Sunday, December 2, we will be collecting new, unwrapped toys to give to the Salvation Army for distribution in the Harwich area and beyond. If you’d like to kick off the Advent season by giving to children who otherwise might get nothing, please join us!
SERVICES FOR DECEMBER Sunday, December 2 10.30am Joint Worship with Communion & Treasure Seekers* at Mistley with toy collection, followed by lunch together 6pm Advent Sunday Service at Bradfield Sunday, December 9 10.30am Holy Communion (Common Worship) at Bradfield 10.30am Family Worship with Treasure Seekers* at Mistley 6pm Evening Prayer at Mistley Sunday, December 16 10.30am Holy Communion (Common Worship) at Mistley 10.30am Family Worship with Treasure Seekers* at Bradfield 6pm Carols by Candlelight at Mistley Sunday, December 23 8am Holy Communion (Book of Common Prayer) at Mistley 10.30am Morning Prayer at Bradfield 10.30am Family Nativity Service at Mistley 4pm Carol Service at Bradfield Christmas Eve 3pm Family Christingle at Mistley 3pm Family Crib Service at Bradfield 11.30pm Christmas Eve Communion at Bradfield Christmas Day 10.30am Christmas Morning Communion at Mistley 10.30am Christmas Family Celebration at Bradfield Sunday, December 30 10.30am Joint Worship at Bradfield
We will be holding lots of family-friendly services, including a family nativity on Sunday, December 23, where everyone gets an opportunity to dress up and be part of the Christmas story. On Christmas Eve, there will be a Christingle Service at Mistley, as well as a Crib Service at Bradfield where we will retell the Christmas story, and we will be celebrating together on Christmas morning with an all-age service.
*Treasure Seekers is our children’s programme for ages 3+
There will also be lots of traditional-style services, including Carol Services at both Mistley and Bradfield, a late-night Communion Service on Christmas Eve, and a Service of Communion together on Christmas morning at Mistley.
Associate Minister: The Rev John Brien 01206 397549 / brienfamily@btinternet.com
Please do join us for any and all of our services and events, and don’t forget to check the website and publications in and around the churches for more info and events. We wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a joyful New Year.
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All services are at St Mary & St Michael’s Church, Mistley (CO11 1ER) or St Lawrence’s Church, Bradfield (CO11 2US) unless otherwise stated. CONTACT INFORMATION Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Dom Turner 01206 391218 / 07934 717535 / dom@manningtreebenefice.co.uk
Associate Minister: The Rev Claire Scargill 01206 395417 / revclairescargill@gmail.com Church Office: Normally available at least 10am-1pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays / 07436 398801 / info@manningtreebenefice.co.uk www.manningtreebenefice.co.uk / www.facebook.com/ManningtreeBenefice
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CHURCH NEWS
HOLY FAMILY ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH Ipswich Road, Brantham CO11 1TB
Parish Priest: Fr Peter Raj 180 Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich IP2 0QQ / 01473 684963 www.stmarksparish.org.uk SERVICES FOR DECEMBER Sunday 2 First Sunday of Advent 9am Mass Tuesday 4 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 9 9am
Second Sunday of Advent Mass
Tuesday 11 9.20am Eucharistic Adoration 10am Mass Sunday 16 Third Sunday of Advent 9am Mass Tuesday 18 9.30am Morning Prayer 10am Mass Sunday 23 Fourth Sunday of Advent 9am Mass Monday 24 Christmas Eve 5.30pm Mass, St Mark’s, Ipswich IP2 0QQ 8pm Mass, Holy Family, Brantham CO11 1TB Tuesday 25 Christmas Day 9am Mass, Holy Family, Brantham CO11 1TB 11am Mass, St Mark’s, Ipswich IP2 0QQ Sunday 30 The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph 9am Mass The weekly newsletter, with weekly mass times, is always displayed in the cabinet by the front door. Catholic Commentary Probably many of us are already thinking about and preparing for Christmas, some with eager anticipation, others with a little dread. The church season of Advent beginning on Sunday, December 2 anticipates Christmas by getting us in the mind to reflect on the incarnation which together with Christ’s death and resurrection is the basic premise of Christianity; this is God’s amazing love and action for humanity and the
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world. Fully explored; Christianity is a grand narrative that gives meaning to existence and guidelines for life. On the basis that each person is known and loved by God, a high value is placed on the dignity of every individual and from this comes the modern emphasis on rights. But the individual does not exist apart from others; he/she is a member of a nation and a family and much of Jewish/ Christian teaching is directed at social life, how people can and should live together in peace. If we are looking for a slogan for Christmas we can do no better than to use the traditional one: peace on earth and goodwill to all. Happy Christmas to all readers of this page in In Touch. Events & Diary Dates The 100 Club draw took place on Sunday, November 18 at Holy Family when three lucky winners shared a £156 prize pot. The next draw takes place on Sunday, December 23 at Holy Family, Brantham. The club, set up to support the life and mission of our parish, has grown from strength to strength since its launch. New members are always very welcome and the newsletter, that includes an application form, can be found at the rear of the church or onlne at: www.stmarksparish.org.uk Every last Thursday of the month a Bring & Buy Coffee Morning takes place at Viv & Wyn’s home, Paddock Gate, Whitehorse Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TR from 10.30am-noon. We are raising funds for a new carpet for the parish room and all are very welcome to join us. There will be no December event and the next one will be on Thursday, January 31. Supporting our Local Hospice All parishioners are asked to collect used postage stamps, all year, not just at Christmas, and place them in the box at the rear of the church to help support the outstanding work of our local hospice. The Sick & Homebound Please let Fr Peter know of anyone who is ill at home or homebound so that they can receive appropriate pastoral care. If you or someone you know is going into Ipswich Hospital and would like the ministrations of the church while there please inform Fr Peter or leave a message on Deacon Clive’s answerphone on 01206 396319. All are very welcome to attend Holy Family services; it’s not necessary to be a Catholic and enquiries about the Catholic faith are always welcome. Please contact the presbytery, as above, or a local person whom you know is a Catholic.
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CHURCH NEWS MANNINGTREE METHODIST CHURCH
LINK LINE CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES
South Street, Manningtree CO11 2JB
“For the truth of God’s Word and The Light of The Gospel
Minister: The Rev Tom Osborne, 01206 396654
Un-denominational / meeting at Ogilvie Hall, Wignall Street, Lawford CO11 2JE (unless otherwise stated)
Sunday Services at 10.15am with visiting and outside preachers Sunday, December 2: Start of Advent The Rev Tom Osborne with Holy Communion
Our Worship Services are held on the second Saturday monthly (except in May when it’s the first Saturday) in addition to other events.
Sunday, December 9: To be arranged
Saturday, December 8 From 9.30am: Advent Cafe/Oasis Coffee Morning & Sales Event and Link Line Annual Christmas Party incorporating Link Line Vehicle Fund Gift Day Note: There is no Cafe/Oasis Event in January Sunday, December 16: Supportive Outreach 3pm: Songs of Praise at Fingringhoe Methodist Chapel Friday, December 28: Link Line Prayer Fellowship 10am: The Irwell Suite, Venture Centre, Bromley Road Services and Events re-commence on Saturday, January 13
Sunday, December 16: 3pm Carol Service (no morning service) December 24: Christmas Eve 11.30pm Holy Communion, The Rev Tom Osborne December 25: Christmas Day 10.30am Holy Communion. The Rev Tom Osborne Sunday, December 30: Mrs Maggie Woods Welcome Wednesdays: Bible Study on the first Wednesday of the month at 2.30pm, Holy Communion at 2.30pm on the fourth Wednesday, activities with tea and coffee on the second and third Wednesdays. COMING SOON Sunday, December 2, 2.30pm: Manningtree Methodist Church is delighted to host a return concert by Spectrum ladies choir with Philip, Rachael and Jemma. Tickets £6 including light festive refreshments. Raffle in aid of the Christmas Appeal. Tickets can be booked with Maggie on 07867 546484 or available on the door. ALSO MEETING ON OUR PREMISES Monday Workers Education Association, nine lectures in autumn and spring, 2.30pm Stour Choral Society (Sept-June), 7.30pm Tuesday: Women’s Guild, 7.15pm Wednesday Gentle Fitness Class, 9.15am Art Painting Group, 10am-noon Manningtree & District Chess Club, 7.30pm Museum & History Group (bi-monthly), 7.30pm Treasurer: Mr John Holmes Church Bookings: David Shearmur, 01206 395263 One-hundred shoeboxes collected at Manningtree Methodist Church for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child have been sent on their way to Eastern Europe and the near East. Boxes were donated by many generous and kind-hearted local people in the Tendring and South Suffolk area to bring some happiness to girls and boys in need.
We thank all who attended and contributed in various ways to our very happy and successful Harvest Thanksgiving Service on October 13. Freewill offerings amounting to £147.58 were forwarded to the Manningtree & District Food Bank At our Prayer Fellowship on October 26 we welcomed Mr Tim Abbott, Director of CYO (Colchester Christian Youth) outreach who gave us an indepth appraisal of the work and witness that is being put in place within the schools in Colchester & District, together with news of a new branch being set up at Manningtree Senior School in April Tours & Holidays Our new schedule of mini bus day excursions will be published shortly. NOW BOOKING Christian Holiday to Eastbourne (five days), departing Monday, September 23. There are a few places left. Christian Heart & Home: Our mobile resources unit is available to visit churches and Christian Fellowship Groups within a 17-mile radius of Colchester. Call our office for details. Group Catering Services: 07812 582754 (office hours only) Mini Bus Fellowship Tours: 01206 272064 (Mon-Fri) Soldiers & Airmen’s Scripture Readers Association Representative: 01255 504050 Mini Bus Support, Pastoral Needs (including hospital transport or home visitation): 01206 272064
KEY TO LOVE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Where Jesus is Love and Love is Jesus COME AND WORSHIP THE LORD JESUS WITH US – ALL ARE WELCOME Hear the teaching of our saviour and King, lively praise and worship every Sunday at 11am at the Ivell Suite at The Venture Centre 2000, Bromley Road, Lawford CO11 1AH. Do you need someone to listen or in need of prayer? Please contact David and Rosie: 01206 615228 / 07787 572977 info@thekeytoloveministries.co.uk www.keytoloveministries.com
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CHURCH NEWS CAPEL & BRANTHAM METHODIST CHURCHES BE PREPARED These two words have been etched in my life from the days I was in the Scouting movement. Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout movement, was asked the inevitable question: “Prepared for what?”. His response: “Why, for any old thing!”. He wrote: “you are always in a state of readiness in mind and body to do your duty.” Every week I work to deadlines – the most public is that on a Sunday morning I’ve got to stand up and preach to one of my congregations. I can’t tell them to come back tomorrow when I’m ready. Preparation includes studying the Bible passage, reading around the subject and praying through the message. I was caught out once when I went to work in Zimbabwe. My family and I have travelled overnight and attended an English speaking service where we warmly welcomed as new missionaries. As I was going to be working in rural areas among the Shona people, I slipped into an afternoon service to experience their worship and observe. When they found out I was a minister I was invited to preach. I wasn’t due to preach for several weeks (language school was my first assignment), and I can’t remember what I preached, but I know I was unprepared. I learnt then that I must always be prepared to share a word from the Lord with people. So many of my days don’t turn out exactly as scheduled. God surprises me with a person I meet, I have an interruption through a phone call or message that requires a visit, someone shares something of significance. I need to be ready to respond and discover God appointments. For years the people of Israel had been told that Christ was coming and to look forward to his coming. Prophecies told the place of his birth, that he would be a descendent of King David, the manner of his birth and much more. Yet when the moment arrived many failed to see it. The people thought they knew how God would work and were unprepared for anything else. It’s as though they had put God in a box. But God cannot be confined to a box. We should live our lives with a sense of expectancy. God is at work in many ways, constantly able to surprise us. Are we ready and willing to be surprised, are we ready to meet him in the lives of people we know. I’m sure most of us will prepare for Christmas with presents, food and drinks. We could easily miss the greatest gift God has prepared for us, a relationship with his Son Jesus Christ, after whom this festival is named. AT CAPEL METHODIST Home Groups and prayer meetings on various days and times. Sunday 2 Saturday 8 Sunday 9 Sunday 16 Sunday 23 Christmas Eve Christmas Day Sunday 30
10.30am 6.30pm 3.30pm 10.30am 10.30am 6.30pm 10.30am 7pm 9.30am 10.30am
Worship with Stephen Walker Prayer Messy Church Worship with Tom Boswell All-Age Worship – The Story of Christmas Carol Service with Rev Sankey Worship and Communion with Rev Sankey Carols in the Precinct for All Worship with Rev Sankey Worship with Chris Jowett
The Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Capel Methodist 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 AT BRANTHAM METHODIST Sunday 2 11am Sunday 9 2.30pm Sunday 16 11am Sunday 23 11am Sunday 30 11am
Worship and Communion with Rev Gardner Christmas Songs of Praise United Service with East Bergholt Congregational, Rev Gardner Carol Service with Martin Ellis Worship Arranged Locally
The Rev Ian Gardner, Minister at Brantham Methodist 34 Medway Road, Ipswich IP3 0QH ig.gardner@ntlworld.com / 01473 411507
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Meeting at Old St Michael’s School on Trinity Road, Manningtree UNIQUE The Christmas ads are out in force! And they are all trying to be the unique one, the one that stands out and somehow causes us to want to buy everything we can from that store. I wonder if John Lewis or Coca Cola will capture out hearts most this year. Or maybe some less well-known company will come up trumps! But it makes me wonder if anything is truly unique these days. Our lights are mass manufactured in the Far East and even our trees look alike. However much time we spend choosing one, the only real difference is whether you have the six footer or the seven footer. We debate if it will fit in and which way around to put it, but in truth each way it looks about the same and the real question is how long will the needles last! Is anything unique? Even when we go to a funeral one of the most chosen songs is I Did It My Way. In the profession of individuality we are all the same! In life and death has there ever been a truly unique person? Actually that is what Christmas is all about. This is when we remember and celebrate a truly unique moment in human history, when one person embodied two natures. No-one has done this before or since. Jesus Christ, the baby of the Christmas account, is truly unique. He was obviously human and not an alien and yet he was so obviously different. Strange and wonderful things, a truly unique set of things happened from before the moment of His conception. His mother was a virgin at the time of His conception and birth. Both she and the man who would be a dad to the baby Jesus, were visited by angels who explained what was going on. The night of His birth was remarkable, more angels and shepherds and soon after a visit by oriental Magi who had travelled from far away to visit him. Certainly unique even the full meaning of all this was not clear straight away. However, as time went on His uniqueness remained and Jesus proved that not only was He a man but He was also God. His humanity was His second nature, He has always been God and at Christmas we remember when God Himself came to earth and took on humanity. One man two natures! God Himself present with us! That is the great meaning of Christmas. Yes Jesus is God’s present to us and just like the Christmas adverts we at Trinity want to proclaim that to you and see your heart captured by it. But we don’t want to part you from your cash or give you something temporary that will be thrown away in the New Year, or at best put away until next year. We proclaim to you the unique life-changing truth that God, your Creator God who made you, has also visited you and the reason for that visit was to give you the most glorious good gifts. Why not come to church this Christmas and hear Jesus proclaimed again and discover what joy it is that Jesus is present with us? Our Bible teaching will be from Matthew’s Gospel. Matthew was an eyewitness of Jesus and recorded what he saw and heard. If you haven’t been to church before, or for a while, our 5pm service is the best place to start. All ages welcome and refreshments follow. The Church family meet regularly on Sunday at 10am to pray, followed by our worship service. There’s always a warm welcome, an all-age programme and refreshments follow. On Sunday, December 2 we will move our service to the ballroom at Ironside Walk and begin at 4.15pm. This Advent Carol Service will be quite traditional, but suitable for all. If you would like us to pray for you please call and leave a message on the answerphone: 01206 393745 There a number of other events during the month including Meeting Place (Tuesday 4), Youth Work (Mondays 3 & 10 / all School Years), Home Groups (as announced) and Prayer Meetings (Tuesdays 4 & 18). Please check the calendar for full details. www.trinity-manningtree.org.uk
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CHURCH NEWS ST MARY’S CHURCH, LAWFORD Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Simon Heron, 01206 392659
Services for December Sunday 2 8am Holy Communion BCP 10.30am Holy Communion Sunday 9 8am Holy Communion BCP 10.30am Family Service 3pm Cyclist & Ramblers Carol Service Sunday 16 8am Holy Communion BCP 10.30am Holy Communion 6.30pm Candlelit Carol Service
To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380
Sunday 23 8am Holy Communion BCP 10.30am Morning Worship Monday 24: Christmas Eve Noon Crib Service 4pm Crib Service 11.30pm Midnight Communion Tuesday 25: Christmas Day 10.30am Family Communion Sunday 30 No services at Lawford 10.30pm Benefice Service at Little Bentley Coming Events Saturday, December 8: Christmas Singalong, 3-5pm at Lawford Church SOME OF OUR REGULAR GROUPS Art Club: Fortnightly on Thursday afternoons Choir: Friday Practise Coffee & Cake: Fourth Tuesday of the month Edward Bear: Parents, grandparents, carers with babies and toddlers, Monday mornings from 9.30am in term time Handbells: Every Monday House Groups: Daytime and evening Ladies in Friendship Together: Fourth Monday of the month Messy Church: Every half term, parents and children together Pastoral Care: Upon request Solo Club: Third Wednesday of the month Support in Loss: Second Tuesday of the month Sunday School and Extreme: Sunday mornings during service Details from the rectory (01206 392659) or at: www.lawfordchurch.co.uk LOVING GOD – LIVING LIFE
CATHOLIC MASSES Saturday at 6.30pm, St Mary & St Michael’s (Anglican) Church, Mistley Sunday at 8.50am in St Mary’s (Anglican) Church, Ardleigh Wednesday at 9.45am in St Mary and St Michael’s, preceded by Morning Prayer Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Ardleigh is served by the Parish of St John Payne, Greenstead, Colchester. The Parish Priest is Father Jon Ravensdale: 01206 870460 / sjpchurch@btinternet.com Also resident in the parish are Father Michael Rear (01206 392695) and Father Mathias Odigbo.
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