In Touch News with Stowmarket, January 2019 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

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& Stowupland Vol. 19 • Issue No. 2 • NOVEMBER 2013

FREE to STOWMARKET & STOWUPLAND 50p where sold Volume 24 • Issue No. 4 RESIDENTS • JANUARY 2019

Muntons volunteers help complete River Gipping improvements, p4

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Recently I spent time with an friend who is caring for her elderly dad. Sarah is exhausted, sad, stressed and worried, worn out from sleeping on chairs next to her dad’s hospital bed. She talked about the ongoing struggle to get the support they both need, the ever-changing nature of her dad’s condition and her fears for the future, but also of the people she calls ‘Angels’ who she has encountered along this difficult journey. These ‘Angels’ are few in number, but they stand out because they are so remarkable. One she particularly remembers is Sam. He operates the overnight tea trolley in A&E at their local hospital. A&E is never a pleasant place to be, particularly so at 3am, but when Sam arrived, pushing his tea trolley quietly so as not to disturb or agitate patients, my friend was amazed by his smile and the gentle manner in which he approached people. She watched him make his away around the room and was astonished by the effect he had. People returned his smile, grateful to have a hot drink and to chat for a moment to someone who actually looked happy to be there. As he approached, my friend prepared herself to speak for her dad, but Sam spoke directly to him. He said: “I have a cup of tea for you and something tells me you’d like it with sugar.” Her dad hadn’t said a word for hours, but to Sarah’s surprise he replied and he and Sam had a brief chat. When Sam departed with a smile and a wave, Sarah’s dad continued to chat into the morning. This one brief encounter had lifted his spirits and for a short time Sarah and her dad chatted about all and sundry. For this Sarah will forever be grateful to the ‘Angel’ with the tea trolley. I share this story because it has had such an impact on me. I have never been, and will never be, an ‘Angel’. I try to be positive, I really do, but it doesn’t come to me naturally. If I had to push a tea trolley around A&E at 3am I’d be more likely to leave a trail of despair. I dread to think what my work colleagues might have to say! When I’m feeling sorry for myself I think of Sam and my friend’s tears as she recalled her all to brief encounter with him. January is a difficult month for many people for many different reasons. Do you have the capacity to be an ‘Angel’ in someone’s life for a brief moment? I hope I do!

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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 •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge

NEWS LOCAL HOUSEBUILDER SUPPORTS NEW CLUB WITH £350 DONATION As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting local communities, Taylor Wimpey East Anglia has donated £350 to Stowmarket Town Short Mat Bowls Club. The club was established in May 2018 by residents of Stowmarket and surrounding areas. The donation made by Taylor Wimpey has gone towards four sets of club bowls in differing sizes and the materials needed for six scoreboards, which have been handmade by a member of the club. Commenting on the donation received, club chairperson Malcolm Bailey, said: “We’re very grateful to be receiving this funding from Taylor Wimpey and the costs of starting the club have been helped incredibly by this donation. “All of our members have a great love for the sport and we’re always looking for new members. Anyone who wishes to come along for a friendly game or taster session is welcome. On behalf of everyone at Stowmarket Town Short Mat Bowls Club, I’d like to say a big thank you to Taylor Wimpey for their generosity.” Caroline Carter, Sales and Marketing Director for Taylor Wimpey East Anglia, said: “We’re proud to be supporting Stowmarket Town Short Mat Bowls Club with our donation. Grassroots clubs like this are very important to communities and it’s our pleasure to be supporting them. It’s great to know that our funding is making such a difference to the club and its members.” The donation made by Taylor Wimpey to Stowmarket Town Short Mat Bowls Club is just one of the many contributions being made by the housebuilder towards community groups and facilities. If you’re interested in free taster sessions, including coaching and use of the club bowls, Stowmarket Town Short Mat Bowls Club practise at 1.30pm at Woolpit Village Hall on Monday, and from 7pm on Wednesday at Stowmarket Community Sports and Social Club. For more information contact Malcolm Bailey: malcolmisoutbowling@mail.com / 07517 567811

DID YOU SEE THE ANGELS? What a delight with a difference it was to see so many little knitted angels strategically placed round the town over the Christmas period. All hand-knitted and blessed by members of the Stowmarket District Methodist Churches, the angelic host adorned lamp posts, seats and letterboxes, in fact anywhere they could be attached and seen by people out and about in the town. Each containing a loving message, it was clear these tiny tokens were a free gift for anyone lucky enough to come across one. A big thank you and Happy New Year to all you kind knitters and to the recipients of the very special angels who have found a new home. Monica Gant

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NEWS MUNTONS VOLUNTEERS HELP COMPLETE STOWMARKET CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL RIVER GIPPING IMPROVEMENTS St Peter and St Mary’s Parish Church, Stowmarket Library and the Museum Enhancement works on the River Gipping at Muntons in Stowmarket have now been successfully completed following delays due to the unusually hot summer. The project designed to improve conditions for wildlife was organised by the Essex and Suffolk Rivers Trust and was funded by Defra’s Water Environment Improvement Fund (WEIF) with support from the Environment Agency, Muntons and PPG. Six woody debris mattresses and four flow deflectors were installed over two days by Environment Agency staff and volunteers. Information boards have been placed along the public footpaths running alongside the river bank explaining what has been done and why, allowing the information to be shared with the public. The six mattresses were made from bundles of brash tied together and kept in place by large wooden stakes driven into the riverbed. Four flow deflectors were also made from large branches and trunks placed at an angle into the river bank, which are designed to push the flow towards the centre of the river to help reduce the build-up of sediment, creating gravel beds ideal for spawning fish.

of East Anglian Life would like to thank everyone who was involved in or visited Stowmarket Christmas Tree Festival. We had amazing trees in all three venues and tens of thousands of visitors, including many who had travelled from different parts of the country especially to see the festival. It was fantastic to see so many town groups and organisations work together to make the Christmas Tree Festival such a community event. An enormous thank you goes to those who decorated the trees.

This was the 14th festival and it was impressive to see how the trees had so many new and original ideas being displayed amongst the traditional favourites. The dates for this year’s Christmas Tree Festival are 23 November 2019 to 4 January 2020. Decorating a tree is open to all groups and businesses as well as individuals and families. There is no charge to decorate a tree and the application forms will be available in the summer.

Melissa Abbott, one of the project volunteers from Muntons, explained: “Muntons is situated on a 46-acre site with trees and hedges needed to be kept tidy, so over the years there has been a build-up of tree trunks, branches and brash which proved very useful for this project. By the end of the two days the pile was considerably smaller although there is still plenty remaining to maintain the features over the coming years.” Andy Ward and Ben Norrington (pictured on the front cover / picture by Melissa Abbott) from the Environment Agency worked tirelessly on both days installing these features along the river, which will provide an excellent habitat for fish and invertebrates. As Naomi Boyle, Biodiversity Officer for the Environment Agency and designer of this project explains: “Historically woody material has been removed from our watercourses as part of routine river management. Now it is understood that timber, together with smaller twigs and branches, is an essential component of healthy river systems. Projects like this are designed to improve habitat density within the river and, during high flows. These structures create areas of slack water that provide refuge for fish and invertebrates.” Melissa Abbott concluded: “Organisations such as the Essex and Suffolk Rivers Trust play a vital role in keeping waterways as they should be and projects like this are in line with Muntons’ passion to protect the environment. We were very happy to get involved.”

Happy New Year from Stowmarket Carnival Committee. We are already gearing up for this year’s carnival and we want your input. There is a Facebook poll asking people what theme they would like this year. There is a choice off four: films, space, special occasions and video/computer games. If you’re not on Facebook and would like to vote please contact us by email: info@stowmarketcarnival.org.uk

SALVATION ARMY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM We had a busy year in 2018 with 21 call outs. We supported 1,745 Public & Emergency Workers, issued 2,640 hot/ cold drinks, made 141 loaves of bread into sandwiches and spent 442 ‘manhours’ at incidents. Co-ordinator Mike Baker stated that one of the year’s highlights was the honour for the group to receive a Where the Heart Is award from Stowmarket Town Council. The Where the Heart Is award is given to a person who has a ‘heart of gold’ and helps others without expecting any recognition or reward.

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE New Year – New Energy

Anybody with ideas or who would like to help with the carnival in any way please contact us using the same email address.

We hope you enjoyed your Christmas, have had time to relax and restore your energy levels and are ready for what the new year will bring.

Up-coming events will be advertised in In Touch and on posters around town.

Why not start your business networking with our breakfast networking at The Mix in Stowmarket at 6.45am on Friday, January 18?

Bingo has been up and running for six months and is on the first Saturday every month. We look forward to seeing you at Stowmarket Community Centre on January 5 at 7pm. Everybody is welcome. The fun day to pick the 2019 Carnival Queen, Prince and Princesses is April 6; venue to be announced closer to the time.

Don’t forget our second business exhibition, MSBE2, on March 27 at The Mix. Have you booked a stand yet? Do you want to ensure you get a goody bag? Sign up as a visitor to make sure. To find out more and book online go to: https://msbe.biz

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NEWS REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM: December 2018 District Councillor for Stowupland Ward Financial Monitoring The half yearly financial monitoring report was discussed by MSDC Cabinet in November. The general fund has a number of significant underspends and some overspends. There is also a current overspend on the housing revenue account which will need to be considered when planning expenditure for the rest of the current financial year. MSDC Performance Outcome Report A review of the performance of MSDC against targets for the various services provided is being considered at the December Cabinet meeting. Many of the targets are new and it is not yet possible to measure performance against them. One target which is not being met, and was not met last year, is the provision of facilities for disabled people to enable them to remain living at home safely. Only around £70,000 of a budget of £400,000 has been spent in the first half of 2018/19. This is particularly worrying; if people are not given the adaptions they need, they could end up in hospital or a care home solely because their home is unsuitable for their needs – or because they have been injured in a fall which could have been avoided. Babergh and Mid Suffolk Building Services (BMBS) Concern has been expressed in the past about the business plan agreed at the time that the BMBS housing repair service was set up. The service was found to be insufficiently resourced and the plan not fit for purpose. New staff were recruited some time ago and a new business plan has been developed and agreed by Cabinet. BMBS continue to deal with responsive repairs and planned maintenance works to all the council homes across both districts. The improvement in the management of the service has seen a reduction in the time that a council home has been unoccupied, cut by around 50 per cent from a year ago, and is now consistently down to less than three weeks. Five-Year Land Supply for New Housing Developments and the Joint Local Plan Staff continue their work to establish that MSDC has a five-year supply of land ready for new housing. The new Joint Local Plan is still being worked on and the draft document should be ready for consideration at the council meeting on January 24. This will set out the preferred strategic policies and site allocations to guide the development of both Babergh and Mid Suffolk. The next step will be public consultation on the plan. Proposed development of land adjacent to Gipping Road and Thradstones Meadow, Stowupland The statutory consultation period for this application has ended, but it’s not too late to send your comments to the planning department at MSDC or to me. I have received many concerns about this proposal and the parish council has submitted a full and detailed objection to the proposals. Personally, I am very unhappy that ‘grassy meadow’ as I call it has been included within the development site. Even though at this stage the developer does not propose to build houses on it, the value of the meadow as a quiet undeveloped open

space will be lost. If this proposal does go ahead, I would hope that ‘grassy meadow’ could be gifted to the parish with sufficient funds for it to be maintained as an area for peaceful pubic enjoyment. Such an action by the landowner would be a small recompense for the damage being done to the quiet rural landscape. No date has yet been set for the planning committee to consider the application. January or February is a likely timescale. The meeting will be open for the public to attend; if you would like to attend and/or speak, please let me know. Redevelopment of the former MSDC HQ site and the Middle School site in Needham Market Planning applications showing the proposals for these sites are currently being consulted upon and a decision should be made on each early in 2019. Together they will provide 135 new homes of which 41 will be for affordable rent or shared equity. This is planned to be a high quality development of energy efficient homes. A new retail store is also planned for part of the former public car park site in Hurstlea Road. Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) MSDC is planning to finance two PCSO posts to carry out parking enforcement and other duties around Mid Suffolk. The main reason for taking this action is the delay in bringing in a countywide parking enforcement scheme. The legislation required continues to be held up due to the parliamentary time taken up discussing Brexit. Stowupland Neighbourhood Plan The draft Stowupland Neighbourhood Plan is currently being assessed by an examiner appointed by MSDC. Following receipt of the examiner’s report, Cabinet will consider whether or not the plan can proceed to public consultation; this will be almost the last step before the plan is confirmed and becomes a significant document to be taken into account by MSDC planners when considering planning applications in the village. Suffolk Citizens Advice Suffolk County Council had announced that they were going to remove all the funding they provide to Citizens Advice by way of an annual grant. Fortunately, they relented and decided that the grant will be reduced by 50 per cent for 2019/20 and withdrawn completely from 31 March 2020. I hope that MSDC will provide some financial support for this vital service, especially as Universal Credit will add considerably to their workload. It is disappointing that the SCC grant is being reduced when the workload of the service is on the increase; any reduction in the service will impact most on the least well off and least able to access services. Keith Welham Keith.Welham@midsuffolk.gov.uk

bRAVO! THEATRE WORKSHOPS Our second festive turn was at Helmingham Hall on December 2 (pictured). We were contacted earlier this year and asked to sing carols at their winter market and illuminated garden trail. Again, it was a huge success and they have asked us to come back next year. We also did carol singing at Stonham Barns on Wednesday, December 19, a festive, fun night out organised by That’s Entertainment, one of their on-site shops.

The children had a busy few weeks preparing for Christmas with our annual variety show on December 14/15 and singing with Samantha Harvey at the Christmas Lights Switch-on in Stowmarket on Friday, November 23. What an honour it was to be on stage with such a star; the children loved it and so did the audience.

We’ve had fantastic LAMDA results this year thanks to all the students’ hard work. We’re also very proud of two of our students, Noah Sparkes and Eleni South, who were chosen from over 70 children to perform in The Sound of Music with Bury Operatic Society this year. If you would like to join in the fun, we meet every Friday evening at The Boys Brigade Hall, Combs Lane, Stowmarket. For more details, please contact Anna at bravotw@hotmail.com or visit: www.bravotheatreworkshops.co.uk.

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R FO LL EE RE CA R HU VD F OC D D BRAN

OUT & ABOUT

Wixfield Park Great Bricett, Ipswich Suffolk IP7 7DW

Not for the first time in November I found myself with tears in my eyes. Hearing The Last Post always does that to me. Both my grandfathers fought in that war to end all wars and were witness to the extraordinary heroism and colossal waste of life that walked hand in hand. Today’s young generation don’t know war, but too many know battle. They battle against addiction, bullying, abuse and low self-esteem. Some feel there is no one on their side, no one advocating for them, no one walking with them. At The Mix we want our young people to know we will walk with them through their teenage years – whether those years are full of fun and joy or whether they’re marked by hardship and pain. We want them to write stories with their lives that allow them to look back at battles won, at growth achieved and the journey they took to reach their full potential.

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In September we had a fantastic celebration event at which we reflected on the impact of our work. We were able to celebrate stories of young people who we had walked with; one can be seen on our YouTube channel (search ‘The Mix Stowmarket’). We also reflected on the myriad of things we are involved in such as: our growing partnership with Stowmarket High School (where we have a staff member for two days a week); Thrive, our alternative education provision designed for young people who are struggling with school; and our coaching which has been so oversubscribed that we have taken on extra staff to cope with the growth. Everything we provide costs money and requires partnerships, so as well as all our applications to trusts and grant funders we’ve been building relationships with local businesses who have been hugely supportive. On top of that we held our first fundraising ball which was very successful. With all this said we are committed to growing the impact of what we do in 2019. You could be an essential part of that growth by joining us as a volunteer or a supporter. If you are interested in exploring opportunities, please email us at: volunteering@themixstowmarket.co.uk Happy New Year to you all from The Mix! CEO & Commercial Director Dave Pepper

FEATURED ROLE: FRONT OF HOUSE TEAM The Mix is a Youth Work Charity based in the centre of Stowmarket. We believe in Young People. All Young People. All of the time. We strive everyday to provide the opportunities, services, support and challenge that Young People want and need, so that they can discover their true value and build their best future. We are seeking a volunteer to join our Front of House team. This person will be the first point of contact for all visitors – young people, families and the general public. A crucial role at potentially a crucial time in people’s lives. Someone who can learn all that happens in and around the building and give people the information that they need. It will also involve supporting the team with the smooth running of the building. The role is suited to someone who has an ability to make people smile, while offering a warm welcome to The Mix. Every day is different at The Mix, so an adaptable nature and a good sense of humour are really helpful. If you think this could be you, we’d love to hear from you. Contact volunteering@themixstowmarket.co.uk or pop in and fill out an application form. “We must BE the difference we wish to see in the world”

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OUT & ABOUT STOWE SCHOOL OF DANCE 2018 was an extremely busy and successful year for all pupils at Stowe School of Dance. Over the course of the year pupils were given the opportunity to take Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) demonstration classes, class awards and examinations at both graded and vocational levels, achieving excellent results. Pictured are some of the school’s vocational students on their examination day at DanceEast. Owing to the diverse system of examinations and assessments that the RAD offers to its registered teachers, the school’s pupils from as young as three up to adulthood and into retirement can all gain a sense of achievement. The fact that Dame Darcy Bussell’s signature is on all the certificates is an added bonus. In addition to RAD ballet examinations, Stowe School of Dance also offers Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (ISTD) modern theatre and tap examinations, including the adult popular tap tests and in March 2018 gained 100 per cent success with most pupils achieving merits and distinctions. In November 2018 the school were invited to perform at The Regal Theatre, Stowmarket as part of the Royal British Legion’s Remembrance Festival where they performed an historic tour through 100 years of dance to commemorate the end of the First World War. Over 50 pupils took part receiving amazing positive reviews. Stowe School of Dance’s classes are held in the United Reformed Church, Stowmarket. It offers classes for children in ballet (from two-and-a-half years), modern theatre (from four years) and tap (from four years) up to vocational level and classes for adults in ballet and tap. As well as examinations, all pupils are given the opportunity to perform at the school’s biennial show. Therefore, whether pupils are dancing for fun or want a career in dance Stowe School of Dance has something to offer everyone. For more information please contact Miss Fiona Drew, Registered Teacher of the RAD, RAD Teaching Diploma, AISTD, DDE (Imperial Ballet, Tap Dancing and Modern Theatre)) at 01449 616623 / fionajdrew@hotmail.co.uk or private message via the school’s Facebook page.

STOWMARKET AND NEEDHAM MARKET LIBRARY UPDATE Both libraries will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, but open as usual otherwise during the festive period (the libraries are closed on Mondays anyway) so if you didn’t get the book or DVD you wanted for Christmas why not come in and borrow it? Stowmarket Library’s next big event is on Wednesday, February 13 when it hosts a Sutton Hoo roadshow. There will be a talk for adults from 11am-noon and a family roadshow and activities for children from 10.30am to 2.30pm with a chance to see and handle amazing artefacts and replicas from Sutton Hoo and learn all about the site and its current development. Stowmarket Library will also soon be hosting a new Visitor Information Point (VIP) so local people and tourists can access more information about the local area. If you need any more info about this please visit: www.babergh.gov.uk/news/councils-to-support-new-visitor-informationpoint-network (https://tinyurl.com/y9pc6d5l) If you’re part of a local group or charity and are looking for a meeting room or other facilities, Stowmarket Library also has two small meeting rooms with capacity for up to 12 people, as well as the option of using the library for events out of hours. There is a projector and Wi-Fi and facilities to make refreshments. The cost is £5 per hour for community, charity and private bookings and £7.50 per hour for commercial and statutory bookings. If you’re interested, visit the Stowmarket Library web page or call the library on 01449 700549.

STOWMARKET ARTISAN MARKET Many thanks to all our customers who have supported us throughout 2018. We started the market three years ago and the number of stallholders and customers has steadily grown with November and December 2018 being our best months to date. It is great to see people appreciating our range of handmade items, each one being unique. Each month we try to have an eclectic mix of stalls to suit all tastes. Jill’s Novelty knits raised £250 with the sale of hand-knitted poppies for the British Legion. She varies the design each year. The refreshments have become a prominent feature of the market and has established its own customer base with many people dropping in for a bacon butty. Many thanks to the Scout Fund-raising Committee and their delicious array of cakes. Our next market is on Saturday, March 2 so we look forward to seeing you then. Check out our Facebook page in the new year for further dates and times.

Saturday, January 19 from noon at Woodfield Bowls Club Bowls Green, Lockington Road Stowmarket IP14 1BQ

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ALLERGY THERAPIST at Woolpit

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OUT & ABOUT STRONG AT SIXTY… AND BEYOND As we get older we slow down and it’s not so important to exercise, right? Wrong! In fact it could be argued that exercise is more important for the older adult than it is the younger adult. It is estimated that we lose 10 per cent muscle strength with every decade, meaning by the time we are in our mid-70s we have lost half our strength. Strength is how much force our muscles can generate. We need strength in our muscles to get out of a chair or climb stairs. A loss of strength can impact many of our day-to-day activities, hobbies and our independence as we get older. Sadly, it doesn’t end there. We become less flexible, our metabolism slows down and our bone density also reduces with age. A slowed metabolism often leads to storing more fat and makes it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight. Our bone density reduces due to a loss of calcium and other minerals, meaning bones can become more fragile over the years. This can particularly affect women after the menopause due to hormone changes. It can seem like getting older doesn’t sound like much fun, but simply exercising can have huge benefits. Using weights to strengthen, not only maintains muscle mass but can also increase it in the over 60s, mitigating the effects of muscle loss with aging. Cardio-vascular exercise can help prevent a large number of common conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or stroke. Balance exercises can help lower risk of falls. And there is more! Exercising regularly has been shown to benefit our brain function, having better focus and decision-making skills. Exercising is also linked to improved sleep, reduced levels of anxiety and stress and promoting self-esteem.

RSPCA SHOP OPENs IN STOWMARKET It’s looking to be an up and down end of the year for your local RSPCA branch. Bad weather and drainage problems have delayed completion of Project Winston, the new kennels at our Martlesham Animal Centre, but on a brighter note, our new Stowmarket shop opens at Unit 6, Meadow Centre on December 15. We’re looking for volunteers and donations so if anyone is looking for an opportunity to help, please contact Julie, our manager, on 01449 259036. The good weather had to come to an end at some point, but the onset of proper autumnal winds and rain has put back completion of our new kennels until the new year, and talks with the Environment Agency have revealed our waste water and drainage system needs to be upgraded. The new treatment plant will add up to £150,000 to the original cost of the build, so our fundraising efforts have redoubled to meet the need. We’ve started a Helping Paws buy a plaque sponsorship scheme for anyone who would like a permanent commemoration of a beloved pet or person at the animal centre. For more information on the scheme or how to make a donation, please go to: www.ipswich-rspca.org.uk The RSPCA Suffolk East & Ipswich Branch has its animal centre at Martlesham, but helps animals across the area, including Stowmarket and its environs.

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT ROYAL BRITISH LEGION CLUB Stowmarket and District Royal British Legion Club will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Thursday, January 24 at 7.30pm at 8 Tavern Street, Stowmarket.

The World Health Organisation recommendation for physical activity for adults over 65 is the same as adults of 20. This demonstrates how important exercise is as we get older. The recommendation is 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week. This is about half an hour five times a week or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week, or a combination of the two. This will improve heart and lung function and lower the risk of chronic disease. Strength training is recommended twice a week. Exercises will involve lifting, pushing and pulling using weights or resistance to improve muscle mass, bone density and co-ordination. Beginning a program can be difficult, but a qualified physiotherapist or personal trainer can design a program of simple exercises, targeting the correct muscles in a safe way to prevent injury and improve function. Our bodies are very good at adapting to the demands we place on them and within a few weeks you will notice changes such as being able to lift more weight or manage more exercises. The key to remaining strong at 60 and beyond is to stay active. The more activity you do the more benefits you will experience. Sometimes people have health conditions that limit the amount of activity that they can do. In these cases be as physically active as you can and remember help is always available. Claire Reach MCSP HCPC Senior Physiotherapist PhysioFixx Physiotherapy Clinic

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OUT & ABOUT HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM SIMPLY BRASS

THE REGAL IN JANUARY

Looking back, 2018 was another extremely successful year for Simply Brass. Playing at many local events including Gig at the Glad and Stowmarket Remembers, as well as our own gala concerts, and who could forget the extremely successful trip to Bandstand on the Beach as part of the Aldeburgh Festival of Music. We packed a lot in!

The weather may be awful, but it’s definitely worth putting down that mince pie, putting on your winter coat and paying us a visit as we’ve got some fantastic films on screen over the festive period and into the New Year. Mary Poppins Returns: starring Emily Blunt, Colin Firth, Meryl Streep and Dick Van Dyke. Decades after her original visit, the magical nanny returns to help the Banks siblings and Michael’s children through a difficult time in their lives.

Looking forward, 2019 isn’t going to be any quieter. We’ve already been invited back to Aldeburgh and have our first booking for Christmas 2019. We are also looking to strengthen our ranks. We have a few instruments needing owners to play them, particularly in the lower end, so if you fancy having a go at baritone, euphonium, trombone or even Eb bass why not start the New Year with a new challenge? We provide the music, uniform, tuition and instrument so all you need is enthusiasm (and £5 per month towards running costs). We’d love to hear from you so please don’t be shy. Contact us as simplybrassstowmarket@gmail.com or give our musical director, Ian Harvey, a call on 07738 752862.

Ralph Breaks the Internet: voiced by John C Reilly, Sarah Silverman and Gal Gadot. Six years after the events of Wreck-It Ralph, Ralph and Vanellope, now friends, discover a Wi-Fi router in their arcade, leading them into a new adventure.

Wishing all our members, friends and supporters a very Happy New Year.

Aquaman: starring Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Nicole Kidman and Dolph Lundgren. Arthur Curry learns that he is the heir to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, and must step forward to lead his people and be a hero to the world. The Old Man and the Gun: starring Robert Redford, Sissy Spacek, Tom Waits and Casey Affleck. Based on the true story of Forrest Tucker and his audacious escape from San Quentin at the age of 70 to an unprecedented string of heists that confounded authorities and enchanted the public.

WOMEN’S SECTION ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, STOWMARKET Twenty-seven members attended our meeting on November 21. Brenda is taking over the role of treasurer and thanks were given to Josie for breaching the gap. Thanks were also given to Liz who carried our Standard on numerous occasions during November.

Holmes and Watson: starring Will Ferrell, John C Reilly, Kelly Macdonald and Ralph Fiennes. A humorous take on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic mysteries featuring Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson.

Dan from Dan’s Coaches gave us as insight into his programme for 2019. Some of the ladies have been on outings with him and say that he offers a very friendly service with lots of local pick-up points. He also very kindly gave Sue a ticket for an outing which was auctioned and won by Maureen. Thank you Dan. Rachael Oakley gave us an account of the 2018 Poppy Appeal. The final count is still taking place. Her thanks went to the local schools for their valued contribution, including Combs Ford School whose plaque for the remembrance of the animals killed in the First World War is now on the Memorial Gates, Sue Priest for stepping in to help when she wasn’t available, and to everybody who knitted poppies for the curtain. It was a magnificent sight trailing down from the side door onto the sward of grass and graves. Also to the poppy sellers and everybody else who helped with the appeal. Sue said that she would be bringing a box to each meeting for people to donate items towards the local food bank, items like part baked bread as this had a long shelf life, or toiletries and washing products. She also said she will have a board onto which members could pin any unwanted vouchers from stores and supermarkets which might not be useful to them but could be to others. We then held a bring-and-buy sale including a delicious array of cakes from Liz which quickly sold. Maureen conducted a quiz which was enjoyed. The competition was for a Christmas ornament: first was Josie, Sue was second and Gloria third. Next year’s programme is not yet available, but Diane Moorewill show us the art of book folding at our meeting on January 16. Our meetings at held at the RBL Stowmarket on the third Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm. Everybody is welcome. We wish all our members, both past and present, a very Happy New Year, Lynda Farr

Creed 2: starring Michael B Johnson, Sylvester Stallone and Tessa Thompson. Under the tutelage of Rocky Balboa, heavyweight contender Adonis Creed faces off against Viktor Drago, son of Ivan Drago. Mortal Engines: starring Hera Hilmar, Hugo Weaving and Robert Sheehan. A mysterious young woman named Hester Shaw joins forces with Anna Fang, a dangerous outlaw with a bounty on her head, and Tom Natsworthy, an outcast from London, to lead a rebellion against a giant predator city on wheels. The Favourite: starring Olivia Coleman, Emma Stone and Rachel Weisz. In early 18th century England, a frail Queen Anne occupies the throne and her close friend Lady Sarah governs the country in her stead. When a new servant Abigail arrives, her charm endears her to Sarah. Bumblebee: starring Hailee Steinfeld, John Cena and Justin Theroux. On the run in the year of 1987, Bumblebee finds refuge in a junkyard in a small Californian beach town. Charlie, on the cusp of turning 18 and trying to find her place in the world, discovers Bumblebee, battle-scarred and broken. We’ve got some brilliant Event Cinema on screen during January, with an encore screening of The King and I from the London Palladium, Andre Rieu’s New Year Concert from Sydney and The National Theatre’s The Tragedy of Richard Second. www.regalstowmarket.co.uk

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Stowmarket Are you, or someone close to you living with epilepsy? A local group meets at The Willow Tree, 101 Ipswich Street, Stowmarket IP14 1BB On the second Friday of every month from 10.30am to 12.00pm The next meeting is on Friday 11 January 2019 (no meeting in December) If you want to meet and chat, please come along and find out more. All welcome. For more information please call Jayne on 07954 038 001 or Will Butterworth, Epilepsy Action central England manager on 07770 837 970 or email: wbutterworth@epilepsy.org.uk

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OUT & ABOUT JOIN THE WI – FIND OUT WHAT YOU’RE MISSING! Early Birds WI are a morning group that meet on the third Monday of the month at Cedars Park Community Centre, Pintail Road, Stowmarket IP14 5FP. We meet between 10am and noon and within this time we have a variety of activities from cooking, craft, visiting speakers and community projects. Our age group varies from 30-80, so there’s something for everyone. We are a very friendly group. Every month we have a raffle, a trading table for members to sell various items, refreshments and time to catch up and natter. We also run a monthly outing and lunch club which is optional, but gives extra opportunities to socialise. Suffolk East Federation of WIs will be celebrating its centenary during 2019, with lots of extra activities taking place. Your first meeting is free so why not come along and see what you’re missing out on? Our next meeting is on Monday, January 18 when Brian Heard will present a talk entitled Hong Kong and the Triads. Brian is a former ballistics officer with the Royal Hong Kong Police. We look forward to welcoming you to Early Birds WI. Facebook: Early Birds WI Stowmarket / Email: earlybirdswi@hotmail.co.uk www.sefwi.org.uk / 01473 251632

Red Gables Volunteer Drop-in

SUFFOLK BABIES IN STOWMARKET Suffolk Babies is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company that provides continuity, support and education from pregnancy through to pre-school. We are passionate about caring for and supporting families, especially mothers, at a time which can be lonely and challenging. Through our classes you can build lifelong friendships with a group of people, all with children of a similar age, who will travel with you along the way through pregnancy, babyhood and beyond. We are also here to help you build your confidence as a parent. Our aim is to empower you to have the confidence to trust that you are the expert on your own child. Our classes are totally inclusive and we welcome everyone from any background. Our baby classes include movement, massage, music, yoga, sensory activities, relaxation and fun, all appropriate to your baby’s age. Stowmarket baby classes are on Tuesday mornings at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside and we offer: • Munchkins Baby Massage – for babies from six weeks to five months. • Explorers Sensory Baby Yoga – from four months to when they start becoming mobile.

At Red Gables Volunteer Drop-in we have many varied volunteering roles with local charities.

• Moving Onwards – for moving babies (shuffling, rolling or crawling)

For more information contact Sue – 01449 673947 / sue.redgables@gmail.com – or drop-in on Thursday between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

All Stowmarket classes are run by Gemma, a mum of two who is passionate about supporting families through this life changing experience and helping build networks of friendship for supporting one another. Have a look on our website for more information or to book a place on a course: www.suffolkbabies.co.uk

Assistant Manager Robert Horn

STOWMARKET SUGARCRAFT CLUB The November meeting was well attended as members were keen to see club member Roger demonstrate how to crystalise fresh fruit and boil sugar to make proper fondant icing to ice fancy cakes, éclairs and cream slices, all of which we got to sample. All diets went out of the window for the evening. We all agreed it was a very informative and interesting evening. A big thank you to Roger.

• Moving Upwards – for confident walkers through to two and a half

We are a social enterprise and any profits we make are channelled into providing free antenatal education and support to new parents. Therefore, anyone who books on one of our courses is making a donation towards the running of our free Essential Preparation for Birth Workshop (from 24 weeks of pregnancy) Contact Gemma at: Gemma@suffolkbabies.co.uk www.suffolkbabies.co.uk / www.facebook.com/suffolkbabiescentre

In December we supported our member Alison to do a cake sale for her church. Circumstances meant she couldn’t manage to run the table this year and as Sheila, our previous secretary, had also done this sale every year before she sadly passed away we agreed to help Alison and to run it in Sheila’s memory. Such hard work, so many cakes, but great fun for those of us who manned the stall. I’m delighted to say we raised £375, a credit to all who donated cakes. The tree is up in the tree festival in Stowmarket Church and we’re absolutely delighted with it. Decorating our tree is always a happy time for those of us who are lucky enough to do it and we feel it really heralds the Christmas season. In January I will demonstrate how to make a cake decorated to look like a rose, something we haven’t seen before. If you would like more information please contact me on 01449 615382. Finally, to all our members and friends, I take this opportunity to wish you all a happy and healthy New Year. Glenda Price

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CAMERA CLUB On November 12 Jamie Hall gave a talk entitled Lifting the Lid on How. James took us through his journey to being a photographer, right from the very first photograph he shot. It was an interesting, encouraging and enlightening evening enjoyed by our club members. We hope to invite Jamie back in the future to learn about his amazing worldwide photography experiences

STOWMARKET LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Monday, January 21: Some Bury Street Folk, From 1900 to the Early 20th Century by Jeannette Baldry Bury Street is one of the oldest streets in the town. The talk will include businesses and professional people such as a corset factory owner and a pub landlord with a criminal record, a children’s home and the ordinary folk who lived and worked there.

On November 26 we welcomed George Buxton to judge our OPEN 2 competition. He gave constructive comments and appropriate marks to the large number of prints and projected images entered with the highest mark given to several entries.

Meetings are held at 7.30pm at Hillside Community Centre; members £1, non-members £3.50.

NEXT MEETINGS

www.stowmarket-history.co.uk

For further details contact Jeannette Baldry: 01449 675271

Monday, January 14: People Pictures by David Steel DPAGB Monday, January 24: Tripod competition v Framlingham and Wymondham to be judged by Harold Mousley LRPS AFIAP Monday, February 11: Open Competition 3 to be judged by Mike Lloyd Monday, February 25: Earth & Skies by Barry Freeman ARPS DPAGB You don’t have to be an expert photographer to be welcomed as a member of the club. All you need is an interest in photography. Our aim is to encourage you to develop your interest and skills, as well as to provide a place to meet a range of friendly people who share your interest. New members are always very welcome. All you need is a camera – any camera – and a real interest in using it. Our members use DSLRs, compacts and bridge cameras. Regular meetings are held at Stowmarket Community Centre, Hillside, Stowmarket IP14 2BD, usually on the second and fourth Monday of the month between September and June. We start arriving at around 7pm for a 7.30pm start. For more information visit: www.stowmarketanddistrictcameraclub.onesuffolk.net

PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR SODS’ SPRING PLAY With the panto season for SODS over, we are now looking forward to spring and our production of Last Tango in Whitby. Written by Mike Hardy, this play tells the story of the annual trip of a group of mainly senior citizens who spend a weekend in a hotel in Whitby. They all seem to be good friends who have been regularly enjoying this trip for a few years. However, this year is tinged with sadness as Pat is recently widowed and trying to make the best of the weekend. Pat’s weekend takes an unexpected turn when Cupid arrives in Whitby, but her friends are not too happy with the unfolding events. The play will be performed at The John Peel Centre from May 15-18. If you are interested in auditioning or finding out more about the production and about SODS, we will be holding pre-audition meetings on Tuesday, January 22 at the Boys Brigade Hall and on Thursday, January 24 at Earl Stonham Village Hall, with the main auditions on Sunday, January 27 at Red Gables, Stowmarket. It is advisable to attend both pre-auditions if possible. All are welcome! For more information about SODS, please visit: www.stowmarketoperatic.org.uk

END DRY JANUARY WITH FREE GIN AT CEDARS PARK WI Cedars Park WI had a great 2018 with lots of interesting activities and speakers. Our 2019 programme is now planned and we would love to welcome new members and guests to join us. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month at Cedars Park Community Centre and are open to women of all ages and from anywhere! Visitors are always welcome with no obligation to join up. Membership is £42 a year which gives access to 11 meetings plus many other local and national events and monthly magazines. Membership is pro-rata for joining during the year and there is a visitor fee of £4 – with the exception of Freebie February! This year we welcome the Gin Lord on Wednesday, February 6 to take us through the wonderful world of gin, offering free tasters and information about on the spirit which has gripped the nation. If you fancy coming along, please do – bring a friend or two and give us a go! There will also be a blind tonic tasting challenge and our usual raffle. Meetings start around 7.30pm and the building is fully accessible, there is ample parking and a bar on site for refreshments. If you would like further details you can visit our Facebook page or contact us at wi.cedarspark@gmail.com. You can also find details of our programme here for the rest of the year which features a variety of meetings, such as selfdefence, creative writing, cabaret fitness and balloon modelling!

BACTON & COTTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Tuesday, January 15, 7.30pm at Bacton Village Hall: Carnival, Drama and Popular Protest Kate Jewell will tell us how people let off steam in the 14th and 15th centuries, including the staging of plays to make a specific point, also to point out problems and to criticise the nobility. Very similar to today! Members £2, non-members £3.

TESCO FOOD COLLECTION On the weekend of December 1 and 2, Tesco held a food collection at Tesco Stowmarket in partnership with FareShare and The Trussell Trust and would like to thank the Mayor of Stowmarket and the Lions Club of Stowmarket for all their support. We would also like to thank everyone who made a donation, especially the customer who donated a trolley full of food to help feed those in need at this time of year.

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET BRIDGE CLUB STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Please note that the group does not meet in January. We look forward to the following talks in the earlier part of 2019. Wednesday, February 6: Medieval Drama by Dr Kate Jewell Dr Kate Jewell returns for her third talk to our group. Previously she has looked at mediaeval rituals and popular entertainment. Now she will be exploring drama in the Middle Ages, such as mystery plays. Ordinary folk used these performances to protest against injustice and to make social comments. Kate studied the performance of medieval plays in the area around Bury St Edmunds for her MA at the University of East Anglia. Wednesday, March 6: Gypsy Caravans by Geoffrey Kay The speaker has made a Reading type caravan. This illustrated lecture tells the personal story behind the research and the making – and the search for a suitable horse! Wednesday, April 3: Suffolk Cloth Industry by Dr Nicholas Amor South Suffolk villages such as Lavenham and Long Melford are well known as centres of wool production in the Middle Ages. The talk looks at the heyday of this local industry. Dr Nick Amor is chairman of the Suffolk Institute of Archaeology and History and an honorary fellow of the University of East Anglia. He is author of Medieval Ipswich: Trade and Industry and From Wool to Cloth: The Triumph of the Suffolk Clothier. We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ. There is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available. Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members. For more information, please contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386

DEMENTIA Together Call Free 08081 688 000 email: SRYC. DementiaTogether@nhs.net visit: www.dementia-together.com

Members played in a national simultaneous pairs competition held in support of Children in Need on November 9. Members pitted their bridge expertise against 840 pairs from 53 clubs throughout Britain. The top pair at the club was John Heath and Caro Hunt who came twenty-fifth nationally while the second pair, Jan Wynne and Jim Sawyer, came twenty-ninth. The competition raised £131. The club’s final match in the County Summer League for teams of eight (Division 1) was played on November 29. Stowmarket lost to Clare Bridge Club by 49 to 31, a better result than it looks considering that the Clare team contained members with county and national team experience. Stowmarket finished in fifth position in the league, a creditable result in view of the fact that the team was drawn from a wider pool of members than in previous years. The club welcomes visitors and new members. Times of play and venue can be found online, but if you need a partner or further information contact Arthur Winchester: 01449 612105 www.bridgewebs.stowmarket.co.uk

NEW AFTER SCHOOL GROUP FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED CHILDREN Red Gables in Stowmarket provides the perfect venue for a new after school group for visually impaired children age five and upwards. It is held on the first Wednesday of each month from 5-7pm. The group is run by local sight loss charity West Suffolk Sight who are based in the Disability Resource Centre in Bunting Road, Bury St Edmunds. WSS was first established in 1936 to provide services and support for blind and visually impaired people living in West and mid Suffolk. The new group has been set up in response to requests for a group for visually impaired children, where they can meet up and play with other visually impaired children. It also gives parents the opportunity to share experiences, information and advice. Each session has a themed activity and tea is provided. There is no cost for the sessions and siblings are welcome to come along too. For more information on the children’s group, please contact Amanda Eaves: 01284 748800 / a.eaves@westsuffolksight.org.uk

LET RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY – FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS In one of my articles a few months ago, I looked at the various statutory requirements that apply to the paperwork and other documents that must be put in place when a residential property is let by a landlord to a tenant. Residential properties that are let in this way are subject to relevant five safety legislation.

Where property is let with gas appliances, those gas appliances must comply with the relevant rules and regulations, and must be serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, or annually. There must be a gas safety check annually on each gas appliance and flue. There are further requirements that apply, in that a record of gas safety checks must be kept for at least two years, and a copy given to the tenant within 28 days of the checks having been completed.

All landlords of residential properties must ensure that a smoke alarm is installed on each storey of the property which is used wholly or partly as living accommodation. A carbon monoxide alarm must be installed in any room that is used and contains a solid fuel burning combustion appliance.

Any electrical equipment supplied by the landlord must meet the stated requirements for the safety of domestic products – and equipment must be marked with the CE symbol.

Often, a property will be let unfurnished. However, where property is let with furnished items, those items must meet the fire resistant standards that apply. In general, these regulations will apply to all persons who supply furniture and furnishings with accommodation. A landlord must ensure that any furniture complies – the evidence for which will usually be the label inserted on it by the manufacturer.

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Buttermarket, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ED Telephone: 01449 613101 • Fax: 01449 615087 Email: info@gudgeons-prentice.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET & DISTRICT MONDAY CLUB We now settle down to our normal activities after the hectic activities in the run-up to Christmas. After a three-week break we start on January 14 with a disco supplied by Jane and Julian. We then have an evening of making various items from wood. On this evening we will have the expertise of Ed Walker to guide us. It will be an interesting evening for us to look forward to. This will be followed by paper aeroplanes and a Bingo session, and later by Valentine Card making ready for the big day. We are a club for adults with learning difficulties and meet each Monday from 7.30-9.30pm at the Community Hub in Crown Street, Stowmarket. We are run entirely by volunteers and new members and helpers are always very welcome. If you would like further information, please contact me on 01449 672123 or just come along on a Monday evening. Lilian Fidler

STOWMARKET RAMBLERS

At this time of year we look back on our achievements in 2018 and strengthen our plans for 2019. 2018 was a great year at Orchard Barn. We made steady progress at reinstating the mediaeval Suffolk timber-frame longhouse and have almost completed the shingle roofing of the additional craft room. We opened new vegetable beds and enjoyed excellent harvests from the polytunnel that was erected at the start of the year. This year we plan to make further improvements to the barn to grow the range of activities that we can offer. We will also increase the number and scope of courses that we provide. New volunteers joined us in 2018 and we hope to welcome more in 2019 to help with organic gardening, site maintenance and work in the woods, as well as administrative roles.

Sunday, January 6: 5 mile walk on the high ground above Barrow. Park with courtesy in Church Road, Barrow and meet near the post office at 10am / GR:TL760643. Leader: 01449 673131

If you would like to know more about volunteering, please contact Carole Brown, our volunteer co-ordinator: carole.orchardbarn@gmail.com

Sunday, January 13: 5 mile walk to Stowupland and Creeting St. Peter. Park and meet at the Retreat car park in Thorney Green, Stowupland at 10am / GR:TM066599. Leader: 01449 771724

We are looking forward to what promises to be an exciting and fulfilling year at Orchard Barn.

Sunday, January 20: 6 mile walk through Sproughton parks and riverside. Meet and park in Church Lane, Sproughton at 10.30am / GR:125450. Leader: 07919 350170 Sunday, January 27: 5 mile walk in the Nowton Park area, Bury St. Edmunds. Meet in the car park in Nowton Park at 10.30am / GR:TL865623. Leader: 07519 164931

SUFFOLK PLANT HERITAGE EVENTS Saturday, January 26: All My Own Work – The Essex Garden of Lady Bing by Jan Michalak. Members free, guests £5. Saturday, February 23: Tales from a Norwegian Garden by Tommy Tonsberg. Members free, guests £5. Saturday, March 23: Special Event Bulbs for all Seasons by Anna Pavord. Members £8, guests £15. Tickets must be purchased in advance from Isobel Ashton: 01284 754993 Saturday, April 27: Looking Back at English Garden Daffodils by Sally Kington. Members free, guests £5. All talks are held in Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ at 2.30pm.

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB Jenni Baker of Harleston will present a demonstration entitled The Feminine Touch when we next meet at Woolpit Village Hall on Wednesday, February 27 at 7.30pm. New members and visitors are always welcome. For further details, contact Carla Firman: 01449 672719

ONE YEAR ENDS AND ANOTHER BEGINS

We wish our supporters and all readers a very happy and healthy 2019. www.orchardbarn.org.uk

BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET This month we are hoping to rehome Marmaduke, a handsome semi-longhaired boy who is just over 18 months old. Unfortunately he has come into our care as he has been frightened by neighbouring cats. He is quite timid at the moment, but once he gains confidence he is very affectionate and loves fuss and attention. He will need time and patience to settle into a new home and we hope to find him one which doesn’t have many neighbouring cats. He has lived with a cat friendly dog and older children and is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. If you are interested in giving a home to Marmaduke or another cat in our care please ring 01449 674584. For more information visit our Facebook page or: www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds If your cat hasn’t been neutered and your circumstances mean that you need help towards the cost, please ring Margaret on 01284 851055 and leave a message. You call will be returned as soon as possible. Our admissions and lost & found number is 01449 615500.

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS CROWN PET CARE Twenty-two year old Ryan Stiff has always loved animals. When he experienced anxiety attacks and bullying, animals were Ryan’s coping mechanism. He held a number of animal care jobs, including volunteering at Field of Dreams charity farm in Thurston, working in a pet shop and working at a doggy day care. Recently however, Ryan’s life changed for the better. In May 2018 he was able to use the knowledge gained in previous roles to start his own business, Crown Pet Care, a hotel for small pets which he runs from his home. He explains: “Currently I look after most commonly kept small pets, including rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles. I was able to use the money saved from my other jobs to have an aviary built in my garden to house some of the larger animals, and to buy some cages for smaller ones. I also bought a large number of books on different pets for reference.” So far Ryan has boarded a variety of pets, each with their own personality quirks. These have included a dancing and talking African Grey Parrot, some curious and surprisingly active tortoises, an acrobatic chicken which liked to sit on top of the coop, a bearded dragon, budgies and rabbits. “Stuart, the baby Netherland Dwarf Rabbit, was easily the tamest and gentlest animal I have looked after. My own rabbits always get excited to see the new guests. I treat every pet as if they were my own, and part of the family. I view this business as a way for pets to have nice holidays too, and reassure their owners.” Ryan is so much happier now than he used to be. He has received fivestar reviews, recommendations and praise from pet owners. “I never feel anxious now, I feel a sense of fulfilment and pride knowing that I am helping the local community, and their pets of course.” Ryan is currently taking bookings for 2019. If you are interested in boarding your pet at Crown Pet Care, contact Ryan at: 07496 269736 / ryanstiffcrownpetcare@gmail.com For more information visit: www.crownpetcare.co.uk www.facebook.com/crownpetcare

COMBS FORD PRIMARY SCHOOL Many thanks to Marks & Mann for supplying our new sports kit for use in competitions. We continue to compete in local school contests, Tag rugby, dodgeball and cross country, and with our sparkling new kit we hope to continue our success! At a recent assembly Mark and Charmaine presented the new kit to the school. It’s been another busy autumn term where the children have enjoyed dressing up for our Victorian Day. There were games, washing with wooden dollies and mangles, as well as experiencing a typical school day of the era. In addition there has been a shadow puppet workshop where the children designed and made their own puppets and put on a performance at the end of the day. In other classes there have been First World War commemorations and an Indian Day with cooking! Still to come are the super Christmas plays by Reception and KS1. All the songs are learnt and costumes created (there are even aliens this year). Rock Steady visit the school every week to work with children and end the year with a rock concert for parents. Our fantastic choir performed at the Christmas Tree Festival at St Peter and St Mary’s Church where our beautifully decorated tree resided, and again at St Mary’s Church in Combs for the School Carol Concert. Finally, check out our new look website at for all forthcoming and past events, as well as all the information you need about our school. All at Combs Primary would like to wish all our children and their families best wishes for a happy and healthy 2019. Combs Ford Primary School, Glemsford Road, Stowmarket 01449 613112 / admin@ combsford.suffolk.sch.uk www.combsfordprimary.co.uk

CHILTON COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL Pupils from Chilton Community Primary School in Stowmarket were able to kick-off the new term in style following the delivery of a free Premier League Primary Stars kit for their football team. The school was awarded the free Nike kit, consisting of 15 football shirts, shorts and socks, after their successful online application through the Premier League Primary Stars website. Premier League Primary Stars is available to primary schools across England and Wales and uses the appeal of the Premier League and professional football clubs to inspire girls and boys aged 5-11 to learn and be active. Richard Scudamore, executive chairman of the Premier League, said: “The Premier League Primary Stars kit and equipment packs provide a fantastic boost to schools at the start of the new school year. We hope that coupled with the free downloadable online resources, we can inspire children to do their best in the classroom and on the sports field.” Pupils have taken part in local tag rugby competitions and a football tournament. Players Lexie and Lauren said: “We looked smart and it gave us confidence to wear our new kit. It helped us look like a team and work together and we knew who to pass to. Although we didn’t win the competitions we did win our final football match 1-0.” Mr Canham, sports coach at Chilton, said: “The kit looks smart and the children have felt really proud wearing it to represent their school at both Tag rugby and football competitions. With the new kit bolstering their confidence, the football team won their first ever game.”

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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS ELMSWELL BOWLS CLUB The end of yet another interesting year which means, amongst other things, that we are now much closer to the start of the 2019 bowling season. Preparation of the green is well under way and the usual annual work in the pavilion is ongoing, but should be completed early in the new year.

AIKIDO: TRADITIONAL JAPANESE MARTIAL ART Two local clubs are running beginners’ courses in January for six weeks. The first to kick off is Inori Aikido based in Woolpit Village Hall. Their course begins on Thursday, January 6 and then every following Thursday. Hot on their heels is Satomi Kai Aikido with another six-week course starting on Sunday, January 20 at Stowmarket Leisure Centre, then every following Sunday.

This brings us to the time in bowling when clubs are seriously seeking new members and we are no exception. Anyone either already residing in or a newcomer in the Stowupland area, albeit an established bowler or novice, and interested in taking up the sport with us, should make contact with either our chairman, Frank Boxall, on 01359 244591 or secretary, Graham Newman, on 01359 240846. Our club was established over 100 years ago in the village of Elmswell, but we transferred to Stowupland in March 2018 and are extremely pleased that we did so. We are regarded as a very friendly club and have amassed many new friends these past months. We can supply woods and footwear so please think about giving it a try. We also have DBS certificate holders onhand should any youngsters be interested.

Both clubs have a programme covering, amongst other things, how to fall safely, posture breaking, basic techniques, joint immobilisation, throws, sword and staff.

We held our AGM in November and a Christmas Party on December 1. Both were well attended.

So shake off those post-Christmas blues and start the new year on a positive note!

Elmswell Bowls Club extends warm New Year wishes to all its members and friends locally and in Elmswell. In conclusion, we thank all those local people who were instrumental in suggesting we use this facility and for their ongoing support.

To book or find out more contact either: Inori: jambunorig@gmail.com Satomi Kai: aikido@precepts.co.uk

STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB

STOWMARKET UNITED REFORMED CHURCH

As this drops onto your doormat we may well be in a fairly quiet spell at the club. Some of the regular activity takes a short break over Christmas and the New Year; Winter League pairs have a couple of weekends rest before embarking on the home run and the coaching program also rests, the last day being Saturday, December 22 with a return to action on Monday, January 7. So far we have been very lucky with the weather with conditions inside the dome more than comfortable once running around. I’ve issued a few starks warning though to prepare players for the depths of January and February when temperatures can dip below freezing inside the dome. Still, not a problem once we’re moving and the courts also remain absolutely dry which is the biggest bonus.

On behalf of the fellowship, a happy and peaceful New Year to you all.

The professionals are also on a break with the final event of the year, as usual, being the senior’s event from the Royal Albert Hall. Players such as Tim Henman, Pete Sampras, Pat Rafter and even older players like McEnroe, Leconte and Bjorkman show us how talented they are well into the later years. The players on the main ATP and WTA circuit will have a couple of warm-up events in Australia at the beginning of January ready for Australian Open. Temperatures on court can reach 40 degrees which makes our current weather even harder to tolerate.

Christmas Eve: Join us as we see in Christmas Day, starting at 11.25pm

For us, this year sees us looking for a new minister, but making sure that should you need our services we shall still be available. The team will continue to arrange christenings, weddings and funerals. Please contact our church office at our Ipswich Street premises between 10am and 1pm, Monday to Friday, or contact us at: 01449 675045 / stowmarketurc@btconnect.com Christmas Services Sunday, December 23: Family Worship at 10.25am and Carols by Candlelight at 4pm Christmas Day: A short family service at 10.25am, celebrating the birth of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ Between January 18 and 25 we shall once again be hosting Churches Together in Stowmarket week of prayer for Christian unity. Each morning session, commencing at 9.30am, will be led by a different church with the theme for 2019 being Only Justice. You will be made most welcome. Why not come and see what’s on at the URC?

If you’re looking for ways to trim the ‘Christmas tummy’ then we have lots of ways to get you into fun tennis. There are hitting groups for men, ladies and juniors of all ages, plus the spectacular Disco Tennis every Saturday morning from 9-10am. Perfect for getting the weekend started with a bang and burning some calories while making new friends along the way. If you’d like any information about getting started get in touch with me. See you on court! Senior Club Coach Chris Cunningham 07761 142372 / chris@chriscoaching.plus.com

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CHURCH NEWS THE SALVATION ARMY Violet Hill Road, Stowmarket Sunday, January 6:

11am & 5.30pm Services

Wednesday, January 9: 7.30pm Live lounge at Costa Sunday, January 13:

11am Service / 4pm Messy Church

Saturday, January 19: 10am Coffee Morning

7pm Fundraising Charity Concert

Sunday, January 20:

11am Service

6pm United Church Service at New Life Church

Sunday, January 27:

11am Sunday School Prize Giving

4pm Café Church

WEEKLY EVENTS Monday 9.30-11.30am: Funky Monkeys (Parent & Toddler Group) Tuesday 10am: CAMEO (Come and Meet Each Other) Tuesday 2pm: Over Sixties Club Wednesday 5.45pm: Kidz Club (ages five plus) Wednesday 7.30pm: Live Lounge at Costa Coffee (first in month) Friday 7-9.30pm: Café at the Rec Saturday 10am-noon: Coffee Morning (third Saturday in month) We have interesting and varied activities during the week and well attended Sunday Services. For more information, please ring Jenny: 01449 614133

MAKE A DIFFERENCE THIS VALENTINE BY LEAVING AN EVERLASTING GIFT The Leave an Everlasting Valentine Gift Will Month is being supported by Jackamans Solicitors (Ipswich), Ross Coates Solicitors (Ipswich) and Norton Peskett Solicitors (Halesworth), who have kindly offered their services to offer people the opportunity to make a basic single or mirror will in return for a suggested donation to Cancer Campaign in Suffolk. The aim is to raise awareness of the importance of making a Will, as well as highlighting the work of the charity, and is a special way to make a difference and celebrate Valentine’s Day in February.

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Around 60 per cent of people in the UK do not have a will and planning for later life is essential! People are living longer and with ever-changing family lives; second marriages, extended families, civil partnerships, long-term care needs, lasting power of attorney, funeral costs, inheritance tax… Choosing who you want to leave your gifts to is ever more important so your wishes are fulfilled as complications can arise which can become costly. Making a will gives peace of mind and ensures families and loved ones are cared for in the future. It also gives people the opportunity to leave a lasting gift to a charity that will make a difference to others as well as reduce the inheritance tax bill for the beneficiaries. Karen Hare, Chief Executive of Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, said, “We are delighted that Jackamans Solicitors, Ross Coates Solicitors and Norton Peskett are supporting the Leave an Everlasting Valentine’s Gift scheme by giving their time and offering a will writing service for a donation to our charity. All the monies raised stays in Suffolk to help before, during and after cancer.” For more information contact CCiS on 01473 211884 / fundraiser@cancercampaigninsuffolk.co.uk or visit: ww.ccisuffolk.org

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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