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with Melton, Rendlesham & Woodbridge Volume 8 • Issue No. 9 • JANUARY 2019
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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!
Melton InTouch with & Woodbridge Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk
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Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial.They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Melton & Woodbridge is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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NEWS
COULD YOU BE A YOUNG SHADOW TRUSTEE? Community Action Suffolk has launched an appeal to identify a new Young Shadow Trustee who will have a pivotal post in contributing to how the organisation is run, and how it portrays the county’s youth contingent. It is the first time CAS has chosen to include a dedicated Young Shadow Trustee on their board, and comes as part of the organisation’s desire to reflect more diversity. A Suffolk-based programme to support young trustees has been in place since last year, led by CAS, and now sees a total of 10 younger persons in place with the region’s charities. Charities in Suffolk with an existing Young Shadow Trustee include the University of Suffolk Students’ Union, Suffolk Mind, Suffolk Artlink and St Elizabeth Hospice. The person for the newly created Community Action Suffolk role will need to be between 18 and 25, and will be prepared to offer around four hours per month. They will not be able to vote in their position, but will develop leadership skills, increased knowledge in business and finance, and will receive training and mentoring. Meetings are mainly held in Ipswich and travel expenses should be covered. Janet Perry, Youth Volunteering Development Officer for Community Action Suffolk, said: “Since Community Action Suffolk has been leading the Suffolk Young Trustee Programme in the county, we’ve received such great feedback from charities about the benefits of having a clear youth perspective as part of their team.” She added: “The issue about diversity on boards is a concern in the sector at the moment, and all organisations in the UK are starting to recognise that they must do more to change the perception about ‘who’ can be a trustee. People of all ages and from all walks of life can bring insight to our causes and social enterprises. The more we reflect the breadth of our communities, the better we’ll be able to serve them through the charitable work that goes on across the county.” Anyone interested in an informal discussion about this or another young trustee placement should contact Janet, by emailing: janet.perry@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk For more about Community Action Suffolk, please go to: www.communityactionsuffolk.org.uk For more about the Suffolk Young Trustee Programme go to: www.communityactionsuffolk.org.uk/volunteering/young-leadership-project
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NEWS JETTY LANE APPOINTS DR AMY MALLETT AS NEW DIRECTOR The team at Jetty Lane CIC have appointed Dr Amy Mallett as a new director to assist in the completion of their plans to replace a community facility in Woodbridge, disused for years, with a new progressive arts and youth centre. Amy said: “I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to contribute to the Jetty Lane project. The new community, arts and youth centre will be a fabulous resource for Woodbridge.” A Suffolk-born artist, Amy offers a unique personal perspective on the Jetty Lane project as a musician, composer and researcher. Amy offers a wealth of hands-on arts-based community project experience having worked with organisations including Snape Maltings, Dance East, The Pimlott Foundation, StartEast, The Pacitti Company, English National Ballet, LifeWithArt and The Amber Trust. Jetty Lane Project Manager Cordelia Richman continues: ‘’Having advertised on the national Arts Council website, we were excited to receive Amy’s application. She has a wealth of relevant experience and plenty of enthusiasm for the project. We’re so pleased to have found her.” Currently, Amy heads two community singing groups, The Unscene Singers (for visually impaired adults) and Sing to Beat Parkinson’s East Suffolk, as well as exhibiting an impressive back catalogue of collaborations on workshops, exhibitions and performances with local acclaimed creatives. In 2017 an All-Party Parliamentary Group on Arts, Health and Wellbeing published a comprehensive report on creative health, finding the benefits of participating in the arts to be invaluable to all members of society. By offering opportunities to engage in a wide range of creative activities, Jetty Lane will inevitably nurture and connect individuals from all areas of the community, strongly supported by Amy’s knowledge of the sector. To learn more about Jetty Lane or to donate to the project, visit: www.jettylane.com
The ‘Old Charmer’ to whose aid a lady rushed recently when he fell over and broke his nose just outside Woodbridge Station would like to express his considerable gratitude to that lady. She nipped his nose, stemming the rush of blood and magically produced tissue after tissue. She also, with others who I also thank, got an ambulance and two medics to me within 10 minutes. Unfortunately it was necessary that I spent those 10 minutes lying face down on the ground. As a result I wouldn’t know any of my kind rescuers were I to meet them. Thank you very much all you kind people. Yours sincerely, Roy Joslin
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PILATES CLASSES Weekly classes for all levels resume on Monday, January 7 at Hasketon Village Hall (The Victory Hall), Hasketon, Woodbridge IP13 6JD. There are five classes a week to choose from. To find out more contact Louise Nightingale: 07775 776039 / Louise.nightingale@outlook.com
COUNCILLOR CAROLINE’S COLUMN I was thinking, as one does, of the coming year. Will I remember to write ‘2019’ in my cheques? Will I any longer be writing cheques? What joys, what sorrows might be hiding round the corner? Each new year brings all sorts of new challenges. And the worst is probably the pressure to make New Year’s resolutions. I mean to say, what a faff! And how many of them ever stick? But we make resolutions because a new year is a new beginning and we like to think that we could try to be a better person than we were before. Which, when you think of it, is really good. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could never shout at the cat, walk five miles every day, be nicer to our children, learn to cook, respond positively to criticism... If we could be the kind of superhuman who never, ever ever… The truth is that recognising how you would like to improve is half the battle – and it needn’t be on January 1 (after years of trying I gave up smoking one Bonfire Night long ago, but it was many failed January 1 resolutions that led up to it). The other thing I was thinking was how our resolutions and our wishes change over the years. When I was young, they were all about me. But, growing older it was how things would affect my family that made the difference. I couldn’t give up smoking for myself (nor – I fear – did I want to), but when I thought of my little children without a mother, it pushed me to act. And very grateful I was to them for causing me to see the light! After a while your worries and concerns extend beyond your family and you think of the lives and needs of people outside your immediate circle, and how your actions could affect them. You’d like the world to be a good place for your grandchildren, for your neighbour’s grandchildren and even for the grandchildren of people you don’t know. Warren Buffett, one of the richest men in the world, still lives in the same house he bought in 1958. Why change what suits him? More than 99 per cent of his wealth is pledged to charity. But he says: “This pledge will leave my lifestyle untouched.” He points out that many people giving small amounts are forgoing real pleasures – he and his family forgo nothing. What a generous-spirited man! To be generous is much, to be generous-spirited is more. What I love in Woodbridge is that there are so many people around whose greatest wish is the future happiness of the people around them, whatever their age or background. What better resolution can there be than that? Happy New Year! Suffolk County Councillor Caroline Page
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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT EAST SUFFOLK TRAVELLERS’ ASSOCIATION Each year ESTA, the local public transport users’ association, invites its members and visitors to its website to complete a questionnaire about one or more local journeys which they make during a one-month period. The findings of the 2018 survey give a snapshot of customer experiences and what may need improving. We hope they will be helpful to operators and other decision-makers. The survey was analysed by ESTA president Rod lock. Some findings are detailed below but the complete report is available from: chaiman@eastsuffolktravel.org.uk Findings of train survey • 93 journeys were surveyed, divided equally between the Ipswich – Lowestoft and Lowestoft – Norwich lines and journeys beyond Ipswich to other East Anglian destinations and London Liverpool Street. • Almost 50 per cent of passengers walked to their station, as in the October 2017 survey, and slightly fewer used a car (13%). • In a reversal of October 2017, most journeys (75%) were made for leisure purposes. • Suggested improvements at stations included improved car parking at Beccles and Melton. • Punctuality was marred by three seriously delayed journeys incurring 305 delay minutes. Excluding these, the average delay on arrival was seven minutes, only slightly higher than in October 2017. • 52 per cent of people consulted a timetable poster or leaflet and 16 per cent a website. On the other hand, 22 per cent said they knew the times already – showing the importance of having a stable timetable that does not change too frequently. • The number of passengers (13%) using ticket vending machines will hopefully increase when more stations are so equipped, but those who did use them did not experience any problems. On the other hand, 27 per cent used a booking office, 22 per cent bought their ticket on the train and 19% went on line. It is in the interests of all passengers to have
more than one way of purchasing a ticket and that non-payment of fares is minimised. • Although 38 per cent of trains were reported as arriving late, only 30 per cent of passengers reporting these knew why they were late. Findings of Bus Survey • 61 journeys were surveyed provided by five different operators. • The majority (70%) were made by First Eastern Counties. With 18 per cent by Konectbus, seven per cent by Ipswich Buses, three per cent by BorderBus and two per cent by Beestons. • 18 different services calling at 30 different bus stops illustrated the wide coverage of the survey. • Roughly 50 per cent of the services departed on time and 50 per cent departed late be an average of 5.4 minutes. Two Konectbus services were cancelled. • 25 per cent arrived at their destinations on time, 18 per cent arrived early but 54 per cent were late by an average of 5.4 minutes. However, using the bus industry’s punctuality criteria, set by the Chief Traffic Commissioner, the average delay was only 1.9 minutes. • Congestion was reported by only four members. • Punctuality was similar to that in last year’s survey, when only 46 journeys were surveyed. • 59 per cent of journeys were for leisure, 16 per cent for commuting (e.g. between Wickham Market and Ipswich) and 16 per cent for business. • 85 per cent said bus drivers were helpful and courteous – a slight decline compared to the 2017 survey. • 11 of the 30 bus stops were reported as deficient in some way. • Everyone obtained a seat on the bus although one member had to stand for part of the journey on First’s service 64.
ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND WOODBRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET This month’s markets are on Saturdays 12 and 26 from 9am to 12.30pm at Woodbridge Community Hall as usual. For those of you who have resolved to eat healthily, we have loads of delicious fresh vegetables from Newbourne Farm, apples from High House and free range chicken from Sutton Hoo. For the rest of us, there is plenty of comfort food with beer from Old Felixstowe, quiches, cheese biscuits and cake from Pinewood Catering, bread from Artizan, Doodle Donuts and much more! Don’t forget that all our food is produced in Suffolk by people who cook in small batches and really care about what they do. Whatever you buy from the Farmers’ Market you will be supporting local businesses and your cash will circulate in the local economy and support it. Happy New Year and best wishes for 2019 from all of us! woodbridgefarmersmarket@gmail.com
Monday, March 11: A New View Down the River Deben Valley – Prehistoric, Roman and Saxon Archaeology along the East Anglia One Cable Route by archaeologist Andy Peachey Andy is an archaeologist who has been working across East Anglia for the last 15 years and over the last two years on a major project, the East Anglia One cable route. This is a corridor excavated along the Deben Valley, through the northern part of Martlesham, before passing over Ipswich to connect the new wind farm to the National Grid. He will talk about the amazing finds discovered during work for these wind farm cables. Earlier last year there was a lot in the press about the interesting and unexpected things unearthed by archaeologists, especially on a site close to Martlesham. These included an exciting array of new settlement evidence, including Roman and Saxon buildings, and an exceptional prehistoric monument, trackway and artefacts that may coincide with the earliest settlements and agriculture in the region approximately 4,000 years BC. This fascinating talk will be on Monday, March 11, 7.30pm at St Michaels Church Centre, The Drift, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. The venue is fully accessible with adjacent free parking. Light refreshments will be available. Further information about this event and the music fund please contact the Burrows family on 01473 625196 or visit: www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY Woodbridge Library will be closed on Tuesday, January 1. January 2-31: ArtLib Exhibition of photographs by Kieran Seymour January 2-19: Display by Eastern Angles Theatre Company for their Christmas show, The Fenland Screamers & Other Boggy Tales by Pat Whymark and Julian Harries. Book tickets now for Sir John Mills Theatre, Ipswich until January 5 or at Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge from January 9-19: 01473 211498 Book Group: Meets on the first Thursday of the month at 2pm. On January 3 we will be discussing This Must Be The Place by Maggie O’Farrell. January 4-18, 10.30am-12.15pm: Active Lives Singing Group. Feel your spirits lift and find a new confidence in singing. Improve your breathing, your circulation and have some fun! For more information contact Gina or Julie on 01473 345350 or visit: wwwactivlives.org.uk From Saturday, January 5: Sale of withdrawn children’s and teenage books. All proceeds to Woodbridge Library. Tuesday, January 8, 10am-noon: Realise Futures walk-in advice and guidance session for people with a learning disability and/or autism. Realise Futures can provide support, advice or information on housing, employment, benefits, training, money, travel, safety, health, bills/ letters, social. There is no need to book an appointment. To find out more about this service and what’s happening in your local area contact 07753 447607 / info@realisefutures.org or visit: www.realisefutures.org Saturday, January 12, 10.15-11.45am: Talk by well-being coach and three principles practitioner Mia Philips. For more information please visit: www.facebook.com/SC3PC Tuesday, January 15, 1-2pm: Visit by best-selling novelist Diane Setterfield. Diane is best known for The Thirteenth Tale, a dark and haunting novel which was adapted for television starring Olivia Coleman and Vanessa Redgrave. Her new book is entitled Once Upon a River and is a wonderfully atmospheric and intriguing gothic mystery set along the river Thames. Tickets will be £15 to include a copy of the book and £10 without. Call into Woodbridge Library or Browsers Bookshop to reserve your place. Saturday, January 19, 9-11am: County Councillor Caroline Page will be holding her surgery at the library. Tuesday, January 22, 12.45-1.30pm: Music at Lunchtime Concert by Anthony Awad (see page 10). Free IT help and advice: Available on Monday and Thursday mornings. Learn how to use a library computer or your own laptop, tablet or smartphone. Free one-on-one hour long tuition. Book your session at the desk or call: 01394 446510 Friends of Woodbridge Library: If you’re enthusiastic about libraries, would enjoy helping to organise library events and are willing to help with our fundraising activities, please ask a member of staff for more details. Citizens Advice Bureau: Someone from the CAB is available for help and advice every Monday, 10am-noon.
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Friends of Woodbridge Library Goodies: Show your support for your local library by carrying a cotton shopping bag bearing the Friends logo. It’s only £3. There is also a magnetic bookmark for £1. Meeting room and display boards available for hire • Community, charity, private groups: £10 per hour • Commercial, statutory groups: £15 per hour • Display boards: £10 per week • Staffed table display in the main library: £10 per half day Woodbridge Novelists: Meets the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 10am-noon. This is a reciprocal critiquing group for novelwriters who are working towards publication. For more information email: jane@bakwon.com Writers’ Workshop: Meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 5.30-7.30pm. If you like to write for pleasure, love words and have imagination, have you thought of joining Writers’ Workshop at Woodbridge Library? The group does homework on one fortnight and structure (plot, characterisation, etc) on the other. You can attend one or both sessions, but it is not a course – you are not taught to write. The workshop is free. Interested? To open doors to creative writing please email: jeannie@butterwicks.com Creative Writing for All: Meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 2-4pm. For more details contact: jeannie@butterwicks.com Knitting Club: Every Friday at 2pm. For all types of knitters, expert to beginner, come and share your knowledge or pick up some tips. Arts and Crafts Group: Meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 10am. Enables older people and their carers to take part in activities such as collage, card making, printing and modelling. Play Reading: Meets on the third Thursday of the month at 2pm. Come to listen or join in for an afternoon of light-hearted drama, comedy or mystery. All welcome. Games Club: Meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at 2pm. Now includes dominoes. Improve your vocabulary and exercise your mind muscles with Scrabble or practise strategy or balance with dominoes. Woodbridge Area Gamers: Meets on the second Saturday of each month from 1-5pm. For more information contact nigel@foden.me.uk / 07740 173091 or visit: www.boardgamegeek.com/guild/1150 ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN Every Wednesday 10.30-10.50am: Bookstart Baby Bounce – soothing songs and gentle nursery rhymes for babies and their grown-ups. 11.15-11.45am: Bookstart Tot Rock Rhyme and Rhythm – music, songs and action rhymes for toddlers with their parents and carers. Every Friday 10.30-11am: Bookstart Story and Rhyme Time Stories and more for young children accompanied by an adult. Every Sunday 10.30am-noon: Kid’s Club Craft Activities
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE MUSEUM AFTERNOON TALKS The November talk for the Friends of Woodbridge Museum was given by Lynette Burgess of Bawdsey Radar Trust which opened its newly refurbished museum in spring 2018 following the receipt of a Heritage Lottery Grant of £1.4 million. The audience learned of the development of radar from its earliest years, and the impetus given to its eventual operational success by pre-war funding to Robert Watson-Watt and his team in time to defend our shores from aerial attack in the Battle of Britain. A short video clip from the museum showing aerial shots of Bawdsey Manor and its coastline, complete with computer-generated graphics of the four 360-foot transmitter towers, completed the talk and brought home the importance of this site in our nation’s history. Our next meeting is on Friday, January 11 when Roger Bailey will present Teaching in Nepal – The Experiences of a Woodbridge Man in the Himalayas. All meetings are held in Woodbridge Community Hall at 2.30pm; friends £3, visitors £4. For further details contact Anne Merrett: 01394 385572
START 2019 BY EXERCISING WITH DANCE FOLKUS Our first dance of 2019 is in Woodbridge Community Hall on Friday, January 4, starting at 7.30pm. After all that Christmas food, get some heart pumping exercise by joining our friendly crowd in a ceilidh or barn dance. The nationally known festival caller Mary Panton will be in charge. She is an excellent, experienced, London-based caller with an extensive range of dances. Don’t miss this opportunity to dance with one of the country’s best traditional social dance teachers. The band will be our resident Dance Folkus ‘Come All Ye’ Band led by Harbour Lights. Local traditional singer Roger Middleditch will be entertaining us during the mid-evening interval. For many years Roger was a longshore fisherman operating from the boats on Aldeburgh Beach. He is a fine singer and sure to give us an amusing ditty or a sea song or two. Roger has been one of the lead singers in the local Quay Street Whalers group who have entertained Suffolk audiences with their range of old traditional pub singalong songs. New dancers wanting to attend can book a discounted place by emailing Dancefolkus@aol.com (no payment in advance) or you can simply come along on the night (entry £7 / students or children £3). Telephone Rob 01473 610951 if you need further information. Visitors to Woodbridge and new first-time dancers are always very welcome to attend our dances at Woodbridge Community Hall in Station Road IP12 4AU.
TAPAS ‘n’ TALES AT THE KINGS HEAD Join us at The Kings Head in Woodbridge on Wednesday, January 16 from 7.30pm for our bimonthly night of stories, poems, jokes, limericks, blog readings and any other word combinations you fancy. Entry is free. You can jump up and join in with one of our open spots, or just sit back and let us weave some words to entertain you! We are serving olives and bread for Tapas and the pub will be doing their usual pub grub. Our featured artist this month is the wonderful Essex based storyteller Hannah Brailsford, founder of Spinning Yarns Theatre. Her energetic and passionate tellings have delighted audiences across the region and beyond. Find out more at: www.facebook.com/groups/tapasntales We have the hat out for contributions (no obligation) and if we cover our costs we’ll share whatever’s left amongst all those who perform and would like a share. Come down, support us, bring your friends – and generally eat, drink and be merry!
LIONS’ CLUB OF WOODBRIDGE & DISTRICT We would like to thank everyone who supported our recent art show and sale which raised £430 to enable us to support local good causes. Quay Time, our joint venture project with Woodbridge Quay Church, presents an informal opportunity for people to meet over tea and cakes and to have a chat. Everyone is welcome, so why not pop along to the Quay Church at 2pm on the third Wednesday of each month. We continue to look for new ways to raise funds and would be happy to talk to any organisation that is running a local major community event for ways that we might be able to get involved. In the past, as well as running our own events, we have organised car parking, marshalled races and walks, organised litter picks and much more to support events being run by a number of other community organisations. Please contact us through our website: www.woodbridgelions.org.uk
EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of, or a volunteer for, the National Trust, we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you. We meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1JF at 7.15pm.
MUSIC IN THE LIBRARY One of the most pleasurable ways to spend a lunch hour in Woodbridge is to pop along to the library for one of its lunchtime concerts. These have been running for nearly four years and take place on Tuesdays at 12.45pm. The next concert in this series will be given by Anthony Awad. Anthony is a pianist, guitarist and singer with a liking for improvisation. He promises an intriguing mix of jazz, Queen and Elvis Presley! The concert is on Tuesday, January 22 from 12.45-1.30pm. There is no charge to attend, but donations for the work of the Friends of Woodbridge Library are welcome. Several excellent and enjoyable concerts at the library have been given by students of Woodbridge School. They will be giving a full evening concert in the library on Friday, February 1 at 7.30pm under the baton of the school’s head of music, Chris Milton. Tickets for this event are £8 (students £4) and include an interval drink. They are available from the library: 01394 330855
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Our next meeting is on January 15 when Mark Mitchels, arguably our most popular speaker, will be talking about the River Deben. Rivers were the old highways of England and along their banks stood the towns and villages which form the earliest settlements in our history. Mark will be taking us on a trip along one off the country’s most beautiful rivers, a journey through history showing how the landscape changed to support the needs of the people. On February 19 Marcia Whiting will speak on the life and works of Alfred Munnings. Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome; the entrance fee is £3. National Trust members/volunteers can join us for £8 per year (£12 per couple at same address). We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events. For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary at: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk
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OUT & ABOUT WOODBRIDGE ROTARY CLUB We had a successful charity walk around the town in conjunction with and with close involvement from five school PTAs. Approximately £450 was raised. Some accolades from the children: Charlotte (6): “I loved the walk, it was great fun. I didn’t know there were so many steps in Woodbridge. Nana cycled miles to keep meeting us.” Flora (6): “I loved the walk too. My favourite part was through the woods.”
PHOTOGRAPHER’S IMAGES PUT INTO PERSPECTIVE At the November meeting , John Wrigley judged over 63 images presented for the Perspective Competition. After viewing and critiquing them all, 16 were held back for final deliberation.
On our charity bike ride, The Rough Stuff, 188 riders took part in the off-road event which was great success and enjoyed by all from young children to over-70s. Some remarks from entrants:
The winner was Graham Wood with Reflection of St Pauls (pictured), with runners-up Barrie Henderson, Richard Brown and Philip Wade. John commended the high-quality images entered and had his work cut out to choose a winner.
Ian: “Excellent signage all the way round. GPS was spot on. Organisation was quick and efficient and the after event food was excellent.”
Members look forward to our next meeting on January 15 when Kevin Sawford gives an illustrated talk entitled An East Anglian Photographer’s Year. Visitors welcome.
Luke (8): “It was brilliant. The trail was awesome. The sign posting was great. My legs ached a bit afterwards though! Daddy fell into a ditch.” Our jazz concert with Phoenix Jazz at Woodbridge Community Hall was a great event raising money for the Jetty Lane Project, a fantastic potential building in Woodbridge.
WOODBRIDGE PROBUS We enjoyed a lovely Christmas lunch at Seckford Golf Club on December 3; our thanks to the staff for a splendid meal and service. Our first meeting in 2019 is on Monday January 7, which is our AGM. This is an important meeting where we need to tie up our data protection and organise our move to our new home at Woodbridge Golf Club, so we are asking as many members as possible to attend. Our meeting on February 4 will be at Woodbridge Golf Club when Edward Rees from Scottish Power Renewable will talk about East Anglia One, a massive array of 102 wind turbines which will deliver an enormous 714 megawatts of electric power. Two 73km underwater cables will deliver power to Bawdsey, from where underground cables under the Deben and round Ipswich will then terminate at Bramford where it is fed into the National Grid. A fascinating talk, which I look forward to very much. We look forward to you joining us for lunch. You’ll find all the details on our website or you can contact our chairman, Ray Hooper: 07512 792454 www.woodbridgeprobus.org.uk
WOODBRIDGE COMPUTER CLUB Want to know more about computers, smartphones and the like. Want to keep up with your kids/grandkids? Woodbridge Computer Club provides a drop-in facility for residents who would like help and support using their computers, smart devices for hobbies or for family purposes. It is also a space to meet likeminded people with whom to share knowledge in an informal relaxed and supportive environment. We meet at Woodbridge Methodist Church, St Johns Street IP12 1ED on Saturday mornings from 10.30am-noon. Attendance is free, but tea and coffee are available at cost. For further information contact: woodbridge.computerclub@gmail.com / 07889 512216
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SPEAKING MADE EASY AT SPEAK EASY Happy New Year! Here’s a New Year’s resolution you can enjoy keeping, with our help and support. Join us at Speak Easy at Martlesham, your friendly neighbourhood speakers’ club, to improve your public speaking in 2019. We’re holding a special open evening on Thursday, January 24, your chance to find out what happens at a speakers’ club and if it’s for you. Speak Easy is a Toastmasters International club. TI has spent nearly 95 years devising and refining the best ways for all of us to develop. If you improve your public speaking it also boosts your confidence and helps you become a better leader. TI recognises this. There are leadership projects and opportunities as well as speaking projects, all within Pathways, TI’s new educational framework. There are online and downloadable learning materials to guide and challenge you. You’re in control of how far and how fast you progress. We meet every Thursday fortnight at the Richards Room in Martlesham (the Tesco). Our meetings include impromptu speaking, formal speaking and evaluation. Evaluation is a vital part of how Toastmasters’ clubs operate. When you evaluate someone else speaking you not only help them, you also help develop your own speaking through empathy and understanding. For further details or queries please call our VP membership on 07968 372563 or get in touch via: wwwspeak-easy.org.uk (select Contact Us ). If you can’t make the open evening, you’re very welcome at any club meeting. You can check directions and club meeting dates online. Speak Easy at Martlesham is all about learning to speak in a friendly, encouraging and enjoyable environment. We look forward to meeting you in 2019!
ORWELL DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY Orwell DFAS does not meet in January so our next lecture will be on Wednesday, February 6 when Andrew Spira will deliver what we are sure will be a fascinating talk entitled The Art and Architecture of St Petersburg. Orwell DFAS meets at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU, on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing promptly at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins before the day on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT CRAFTERS UNLIMITED
MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY
Happy New Year to all our crafting members past and present.
Monday, February 11: The History of the Catholic Church in Kesgrave by The Rev Chris Brighten
Crafters Unlimited is a craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a light hearted atmosphere with refreshments, we meet on the fourth Thursday of each month in Rushmere Village Hall from 7.30-10pm. Thursday January 24: Fabric Owl (Emma) Thursday February 28: Rolling Penny Card (Emma) New members are always welcome. For more details contact Emma: 01787 373850
IPSWICH & DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB We were delighted to welcome the Mayor of Ipswich, Councillor Jane Riley, to our last meeting and particularly encouraged to hear that she is focussing on finding out more about smaller voluntary groups in the town – like us of course! She kindly presented the quilt which we raffled in aid of Light House at the Women’s Voices, Women’s Vote event to the winner – as it happened, our own newest member. December meant a Christmas meal together. We exchanged greetings with our Friendship Clubs in France and Denmark. We share many concerns with them. This Christmas we sent a donation to Arras towards an event they are hosting on domestic violence. Naested has a long history of working for trafficked women and we recently organised a lunch in aid of a similar project set up by our club in Poole. Our meeting on January 9 has the odd title Knowing Me, Knowing You. For the benefit of new members, we are going to spend the evening introducing ourselves and explaining more fully what Soroptimism is all about. If you are interested why not come and listen in? Just phone our secretary Joyce on 01394 615659.
Meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion at 7.30pm. Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.
U3A GEARS UP FOR THE NEW YEAR With the arrival of the New Year, East Suffolk’s lively U3A programme is a feast for the lively minded and includes a wide variety of topics to stimulate interest and discussion. Thursday, January 3, 10.30am: Salvation Army Hall, Felixstowe IP11 7EL The Art of Theft (Fraud in the Art World) by Richard Ellis. Why art is stolen, how criminals use it and why it is forged. Friday, January 18, 10.30am Woodbridge Community Hall IP12 4AU Land of the Pharaohs by Chris Parfitt. Aspects of the time of the Pharaohs and life in Egypt today through visits to Cairo, Aswan and Luxor. Monday, January 28, 2pm Kesgrave Community Centre IP5 1JF Oliver Cromwell: Magic, Mystery and Myth by Tony Diamond Thursday, February 7, 10.30am Salvation Army Hall, Felixstowe IP11 7EL The Campaign for Votes for Women by Joy Bounds. Phases of the campaign from the mid-19th century to the end of the First World War.
AN EVENING OF TESTIMONY AND SONG
U3A promises a warm welcome to existing and potential members. You’ll find membership details online or you can call the membership secretary on 0300 123 3913.
In the Bleak Midwinter Frosty Wind Made Moan…
Occasionally U3A may have to make last minute changes to so please see the website for the most up-to-date information.
… but not at Woodbridge Quay Church where we warmly invite you to attend An Evening of Testimony and Song featuring Paul Jones from The Manfreds and acclaimed West End/TV actress Fiona Hendley. So why not forsake Countryfile (or put it on record) and venture out to hear about Paul and Fiona’s lives as Christians in the entertainment industry? They will also share some songs with us so we guarantee it will be uplifting, enjoyable and inspiring. The event takes place at Woodbridge Quay Church, ‘The Church with the Hands’ in Quay Street IP12 1BX on Sunday, January 27 at 6.30pm, but doors will open at 5.30pm for a cuppa and light refreshments. Admission by ticket only; suggested donation £5, but free tickets are available. For tickets, please contact Penny Hull: 07856 794155 / pennyhull59@gmail.com Tickets are also available from the Quay Church Office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays (access via atrium door through window display in Quay Street), and from Woodbridge Violins, 26 Market Hill, Woodbridge IP12 4LU. Jacqueline Tricker
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I’m sure many of you will have passed the small Catholic Church in Kesgrave on your way into Ipswich. But are you aware of the story of two exceptional families and a tragic accident that resulted in the building of the church? The church, which is still in private ownership, has some of the most amazing stained glass windows made by an artist who was one of the finest stained glass designers of the Arts and Craft Movement in the first half of the 20th century. Come along and find out more!
www.a3aeastsuffolk.org.uk
IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY Our last meeting in December was at Kesgrave Community Centre where we were able to purchase material from Sarah Brooks. We also took the opportunity to have some festive refreshments and a good time was had by all. Our January meeting is at the same venue, also in the afternoon. Roger Swindells, a society member and a dealer, will talk about thematic collecting and there will be opportunity to purchase material from his extensive stock. The centre will be open from 1-5pm. In February we return to our normal venue, Cedarwood Primary School, and evening meetings (7 for 7.30pm) with a members’ display evening on Wednesday 6 and our annual competition on Wednesday 20. We are also arranging a trip to London Stampex on February 13 for £20 per person; there are some seats available if you would like to attend. Visitors are welcome; for further information contact Mike Smith – 01473 403904 / michaelsmith1949@gmail.com or visit: www.ipswichphilatelic.uk
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OUT & ABOUT THE FALL AND RISE OF REGINALD PEREGRINE
DEBEN YACHT CLUB We will be starting the year with a bring-andshare lunch on New Year’s Day. As the tide isn’t very suitable for sailing at Woodbridge, we’re opting for a walk beforehand for anyone who isn’t too tired from the night before.
The Peregine Falcon will be the star of the show when local birder Steve Piotrowski gives a talk entitled The Fall and Rise of Reginald Peregrine at Woodbridge Community Hall on Thursday, January 17 at 7.30pm. The talk has been organised by Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Woodbridge Group and chairman Phil Smith said: “As the title of Steve’s talk suggests, this impressive bird of prey is making a comeback after years of persecution, with breeding pairs regularly seen in urban areas of Suffolk. It will be fascinating to find out more about these birds from Steve, who is an experienced bird watcher and an engaging and entertaining speaker.”
There are three talks lined up at the club and the first on Tuesday, January 29 is called August 1939: A Suffolk Lad Sails to The Baltic. This is by Julia Jones, author of The Cruise of Naromis. It starts at 7.30pm and there will be refreshments. Non-members are very welcome to attend the winter talks, which are free but there may be a voluntary collection for charities supported by the speakers.
Admission is £3 for adults with children under 16 free. There will be a raffle and light refreshments will be served during the evening. For further information please contact: 01473 625630 / swtwoodbridge@outlook.com JANUARY EVENTS AT FOXBURROW FARM Tuesday, January 15, 10am-2pm: Go Wild Home educated activity day for unaccompanied children aged 6-12. £7 – please book. Saturday, January 19, 10am-noon: Young Wardens Practical conservation skills for ages 11-16. £3 – please book.
The working party are busy with lots of different jobs to get everything improved and mended for the new season. Also, the sailing program is being planned and promises lots more of the fun had last year. If you like boats or would like to sail, do join us! www.debenyachtclub.com
Booking: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org / 01473 890089 Foxburrow Farm, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1NA
DEBEN FLOWER CLUB Why not come along to our meeting on Tuesday, January 8 in Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane Kirton IP10 0PU at 7.30pm? Our demonstrator will be Shirley Perkins from Leigh-on-Sea in Essex with a floral demonstration entitled Nice to See You. Visitors are always assured of a warm welcome. There will be a bring-andbuy stall for any unwanted Christmas presents you may have and the floral designs will be raffled at the end of the evening so you may be lucky enough to be taking away a design to brighten your home. Tea and coffee will be available and an opportunity to see the flowers at close quarters and to ask any questions you may have. For further information please contact: wa@sandlings.co.uk / 01394 411422
LEISTON & DISTRICT PHILATELIC SOCIETY The society will meet on Wednesday, January 23 at 7.15pm for a members’ display evening. All are invited to show items from their collections. Refreshments available. Club membership is £5 payable in September (50p for students up to the age of 18). All meetings are held at Leiston United Church Hall, 45A High Street, Leiston IP16 4EL. New members are always welcome.
BRIGHT STARS Fun activity sessions for pre-school aged children with parents, grandparents, friends, family and/or carers on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term times from 10.30am-noon at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. Sessions are free and usually based on a theme. They normally include singing, games, crafts and Bible stories, followed by refreshments and more play. Just turn up; no need to book. The session dates for the spring term are: January 14 and 28, February 11 and 25 and March 11 and 25. For further information please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196
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RECREATIONAL BADMINTON IN WOODBRIDGE Badminton is one of England’s most popular sports. It’s as popular as tennis and has far more participants than rugby, cricket or basketball. Worldwide it is said to be the second most popular sport with about 220 million players. There is recreational badminton at Woodbridge School most Fridays from September to April. The sessions are for those who wish to play for enjoyment and exercise without taking the competitive element too seriously. It’s certainly very much more fun than going to a gym and there’s no need to brave the winter weather. With six courts available, beginners and inexperienced players can be catered for. There is no coaching, but guidance on aspects such as scoring is available if required. Rackets are available to borrow. The sport is suitable for a very wide range of ages; there’s even a national competition for players over 70. The badminton at Woodbridge School is suitable for ages 14 to 65 and over, but those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Players are offered a free initial session. There is no joining fee or membership requirement: sessions from 8-9.30pm are just £3 (£1.50 for students). The first session in 2019 will be on January 11. To enquire if places remain available, contact Peter Webb: 01394 386452 / peter@suffolkbadminton.co.uk Partly because of the success of recreational badminton at Woodbridge, Suffolk has been selected by Badminton England as one of three counties to lead the way in increasing the number of people playing badminton. The initiative is a partnership between Badminton England, Suffolk Sport, Suffolk Badminton Association, local leagues, community badminton networks and the Ipswich Badminton Performance Centre.
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SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE WOODBRIDGE CRUISING CLUB The mark one eyeball is still the ‘go-to’ navigational aid despite the plethora of electronic gadgets available to the modern mariner. So many collisions at sea could have been avoided or at least mitigated if the navigator had looked out of the window rather than relying solely upon a television screen. This was the message in Martin Bransby’s stimulating talk to the club in midNovember. Martin is head of research and development at Trinity House and spends his life inventing, testing and refining electronic navigation aids. This equipment certainly improves the task of ascertaining your position at sea, but his point was that it’s always worth looking out of the window to check the information on the screen. It was a most informative talk which sparked many questions and gave much food for thought. The club AGM at the beginning of the month passed without any major upheavals. Commodore Freeman Lynn gave his ‘state of the nation’ address and made presentations to the season’s prize winners and others who were retiring after giving many years of service to the club. Steph Heenan took over as secretary and Graham Bryant has taken on the role of property officer from Richard Bull.
CALL FOR ARTISTS 2019 Suffolk Open Studios have launched their 2019 Call for Artists, inviting artists and galleries living and working across Suffolk to join next year’s programme. Earlier this year, more than 100 artists opened their studios to the public and enjoyed the many advantages of taking part, including reaching new audiences and showing their work in the comfort of their own studio; receiving valuable feedback by interacting directly with potential clients; and the chance to meet and collaborate with fellow artists in their area. Artists and galleries also benefit from valuable publicity through their profile on the Suffolk Open Studios website and Facebook page, and inclusion in the printed directory, distributed free of charge to tourist centres, art venues and visitor attractions throughout the county. Members are also guaranteed a place in the annual Suffolk Open Studios Annual Showcase Exhibition at the Apex Centre in Bury St Edmunds, running from 25 February – 1 April 2019. This year’s show proved extremely popular and drew favourable comments from across the art community.
To commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War, Daphne Warwick organised a memorial evening to recreate the mood of the country at that time. There were displays mounted around the room of memorabilia and mementos illustrating exploits undertaken by friends and family involved in the hostilities, and readings of contemporary poetry and prose together with anecdotes and memories of the time from relations and friends. There were light-hearted accounts as well as harrowing depictions of the sufferings, not just of those fighting at the front but others who served in different roles or waited at home for news. All were very sensitively read by club members to a quiet and reflective audience. People dressed in the styles of the day: a major back from the front (or at least within sight of it) came in full uniform, together with a sailor, undoubtedly from below deck and still sporting his sou’wester. There were nurses with a wounded hero, agricultural workers from reserved occupations, well-to-do citizens, and some not so well, and a few females in fancy flappers frocks. It all helped to create an authentic atmosphere. The food too was of the time: corned beef hash with vegetable pie followed by jelly and blancmange with evaporated milk (which most of us hadn’t eaten since school). It was a gentle reminder of the deprivations imposed by rationing – although in our case there were seconds! Furthermore, there was music on the piano and gramophone, which prompted singing and eventually some couples took to the dance floor. In an early December talk, Philip Leach gave us an update on progress and plans for building the replica Viking ship in the Longshed at Whisstocks and explained some of the philosophy behind the project. Built in AD 624 and 90ft long, it was probably the largest ship in the world at that time and was a monumental feat of boatbuilding. Modern materials and machines would make it a lot easier today, but the team is keen to keep as faithful to the original construction as possible. To this end many experts from all over the world have become involved in the project which will hopefully start next year. More information can be found at: www.saxonship.org
Run by volunteers, Suffolk Open Studios is open to all Suffolk artists and galleries regardless of the media in which they practise. Members open their studios free of charge to the public from 11am-5pm over the first five weekends of June, choosing to open on as many or few weekends as they wish. Many join together to form their own local artists’ trails; anyone unable to include their own studio can still take part by renting space with other artists and forming their own artists’ hub. For more details visit: www.suffolkopenstudios.org Cally James, Suffolk Open Studios Chair, commented: “This year’s programme was a great success. In many cases, visitors travelled significant distances both within and from outside the county; several make it regular date in their diary to see what their favourite artists are working on now. Suffolk is rightly celebrated for the depth and breadth of its artistic heritage and it’s a pleasure to be making the talent and achievements of our resident artists available once again to the public.” Artists and galleries wishing to take part in next year’s programme can do so by completing the online membership form at: www.suffolkopenstudios.org/membership Early applications are encouraged in order to guarantee a place in the printed directory.
DEMENTIA Together Call Free 08081 688 000 Information and support for people who are curious, concerned about or living with dementia, their carers, and health and social care professionals in Suffolk.
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ON THE GRAPEVINE BE YOUR OWN BOSS IN 2019 Both women have a teaching back ground and decided to set up Wild Play as they strongly believe that children and adults need time to play outdoors, away from the digital world. They encourage children to learn through outdoor play in a woodland setting. Denise and Heidi attended MENTA’s free Start Right workshops led by expert trainers who helped them explore the business world, legal structures, marketing and book keeping. Funded by the European Regional Development Fund, the three, four hour Start Right sessions are held on a regular basis by MENTA in Ipswich, Bury, Norwich and Dereham. The Wild Play team commented: “MENTA’s Start Right workshops are relaxed, informative and invaluable; a real ‘must’ for anyone creating a new business. They are also a great way to begin your networking journey!”
‘Be your own boss!’ is a statement everyone has come across. You read it, hear it and see this declaration online, on the radio and television – but is it really worth considering as a viable work option? Of course, being employed has its advantages – a certain amount of stability, usually a regular income and fixed holiday, but even then, more people are weighing up whether being self-employed would give them the flexibility they yearn and additional prospects. Denise Winder and Heidi Franklin set up Wild Play Ltd in 2018. They originally met at antenatal classes and being outdoor types, they endeavoured to get their own children outdoors.
Leanne Castle at MENTA said: “Many people are deciding to be their own boss. Yes, there are downsides, however if a business idea is researched thoroughly and there is a good marketing strategy planned then a business can really thrive and flourish.” Established in 1984 MENTA provides business advice, training, bespoke social media support; networking opportunities, a virtual office service and easy term office unit options. The MENTA Team are passionate about helping start up, emerging and existing businesses to thrive. For more information go to www.menta.org.uk, call 01284 760206 or follow them on social media at #mentabusiness. To find out more about Wild Play visit: www.wildplayltd.co.uk
VOLUNTEERING WITH HOME-START Home-Start met Lauren and her family shortly after their new baby was diagnosed with brain damage. Lauren and her husband were completely overwhelmed with the emotional and practical demands of caring for a baby suffering with multiple seizures and being unsettled day and night, while also trying to juggle the needs of their other children. Life was turned upside down for the family with hospital appointments, admissions and the worry of an unknown future. Their Health Visitor referred them to Home-Start Suffolk, who introduced them to Ruth, a trained Home-Start volunteer. Ruth visits Lauren and the children once a week, providing support when Lauren’s husband works late. Having Ruth there to share the load enables all of the children to get vital one-on -ne attention: reading, playing or doing school work. Mum or Ruth cook dinner and they all sit together while Ruth holds or sings to the baby. Lauren’s evenings are less chaotic and easier to manage with Ruth’s help.
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Lauren says she felt “immediately at ease” with Ruth and found it easy to talk to her when she was having a difficult week. Although the family’s situation is the same, her visits have allowed the family time to adjust and explore what ongoing support is needed and available to them. Home-Start in Suffolk has family support volunteering opportunities all across Suffolk. Although we value parenting experience, you don’t have to have children or grandchildren of your own to help. You just need a little time and a willingness to make a difference. By joining our team, you will receive accredited training, ongoing support and friendship. Our volunteers support a family on a weekly basis for between two and four hours. If you think you could give some of your time to support a Suffolk family, please contact Fiona on 01473 621104. By giving the gift of time, you will help to change the lives of families in Suffolk.
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ON THE GRAPEVINE
Since May 2017 StartEast has supported over 340 cultural businesses across Norfolk and Suffolk by delivering over 3,500 hours of networking events, workshops, webinars and one-to-one advice sessions. StartEast: building the cultural economy is a major regional economic development initiative which is managed by Norfolk County Council in partnership with Suffolk County Council and on behalf of the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership Cultural Board. It is delivered by the New Wolsey Theatre and funded by Arts Council England Creative Local Growth Fund and the European Regional Development Fund. StartEast supports creative sole traders, established SMEs and start-ups working in various art-form areas, such as performing arts, outdoor arts, dance, music and literature. It also supports technical roles in the sector such as, for example, stage management. The project has invested over £250k in grants to support the growth of StartEast businesses, including attendance at international festivals and trade fairs to reach new markets and secure new contracts. Laboratory Media Education Paul Weston attended Music Tech Fest in Sweden in September: “We have joined support networks that were previously unknown to us, attracted the interest of a major international technology developer and gained new knowledge, skills and technology that we will use in our work in the region.” Ellie Bowers-Jolley, co-Founder of The Come and Sing Company, describes the project’s impact: “We wouldn’t be where we are today if it wasn’t for StartEast. We have amazing branding, tech and company clothing thanks to the grants, and the support and knowledge in our one-to-ones, seminars and workshops has helped us to explore how our business can grow.” The cultural sector is an important employer in the New Anglia region and a higher proportion of people work in the sector in New Anglia than the national average. The cultural sector has exhibited strong growth in recent years and continues to do so. An interim evaluation report by BOP Consulting has revealed that StartEast has been particularly successful in attracting early stage and start-up enterprises and there is some early evidence that the support is having an impact in changing the attitudes, aspirations and behaviours of participants. Over 90 per cent indicate they have more ambition for their business, are more motivated to grow and feel more motivated and enthusiastic as a result of the StartEast support. Suffolk County Councillor Paul West said: “Suffolk County Council is
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proud to play a major role in developing and delivering the New Anglia LEP Cultural Board and the important work it carries out. One of our key commitments to Suffolk people is to promote inclusive growth in the area. By working with our partners in Norfolk County Council and local leaders of the cultural sector across the two counties we can have a real impact on the growth of this particular sector. “I am delighted with the achievements of StartEast. By focusing on building our small cultural businesses we are not only promoting economic growth but also adding significant value to the quality of life here in Suffolk.” There is early evidence that StartEast is helping businesses feel more connected, develop a clearer vision, set financial goals and generate new opportunities for their businesses. A positive uplift in turnover for participants is something that will be explored in more detail in the final report next year. “We know that the use of business support by arts and entertainment businesses has declined significantly since 2010. The StartEast programme is delivering high quality, much needed support to the cultural sector in New Anglia, support that would not otherwise be available. “StartEast encourages creative practitioners to focus on how they can make a living out of their practice. This is distinctive from many other artist support programmes.” BOP Consulting StartEast funding was awarded to Norfolk County Council, of which £609,773 is from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) on behalf of the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership Cultural Board. The funding released an additional £500k, already awarded to Norfolk County Council from Arts Council England’s Creative Local Growth Fund to support the initiative. One of nine national projects supported through the first round, it was one of only three to be awarded the full amount available through the fund. The initiative is enabling a step-change in the capacity, ambition, impact and economic contribution of our regional cultural sector which is one of the New Anglia LEP’s ten priority growth sectors. The programme is leveraging the strong partnerships already established between Norfolk and Suffolk’s cultural sectors – including 12 Arts Council England National portfolio organisations, the New Anglia LEP and other key growth sectors. For further information about StartEast please visit: www.starteast.co.uk
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ON THE GRAPEVINE HEADWAY SUFFOLK DEMENTIA GROUP Headway Suffolk runs a monthly social support group for people with dementia in Martlesham. It takes place every fourth Thursday of the month at St Michael’s Church Centre, The Drift in Martlesham from 11.45am to 3.15pm. The person with dementia must be accompanied by a carer. The group partake in a variety of stimulating and engaging games and activities. It costs £6, which includes a fish and chips lunch and refreshments. The next group meeting is on Thursday, January 24. Find out more at: www.headwaysuffolk.org.uk/dementiamartlesham The groups rely on the goodwill of volunteers to help in the kitchen, with preparations and tidying away, as well as engaging clients in discussion and with various activities, such as indoor games, cognitive exercises and singing If you would like to make a referral or want to volunteer, please contact Maureen Howes: 01473 712225 / maureenhowes@headwaysuffolk.org.uk
MARTLESHAM HARD OF HEARING GROUP An independent social group for people with any type of hearing loss. Partners and hearing dogs welcome. Our group meets from 10.30am to noon on the first Thursday of the month at Martlesham Pavilion. We charge £4 per session and frequently have a speaker. Last year we had everything from a local historian speaking to us about Prettys corset making in Ipswich to running a bed and breakfast in Colchester, as well as a lady who told us about her trip to Iceland (the country, not the shop!). We always have time to chat over coffee/tea and biscuits. We are very sociable and always welcome new people to the group. The pavilion has an excellent hearing loop and a lady voluntarily text types so even people with the most severe hearing loss don’t feel left out, something lots of people with hearing loss suffer. There is also free parking.
LOCAL QUIZ NIGHT RAISES OVER £2,600
Why not give us a try – we would love to see you?
Regarded as one of the region’s biggest quiz events, a local family run hearing care company held their bi-annual quiz night which managed to raise an incredible amount for charity.
For more information please contact Steph Moon: 07741 310480 / steph.moon@hhas.org.uk
The Hearing Care Centre hosted their sixteenth quiz fundraiser in Kesgrave on Sunday, November 25. Presented by local entrepreneur Steve Flory, the evening was supported by 200 guests who enjoyed nine rounds of tough trivia, with five teams taking home cash prizes. The event sold out in less than a week which just goes to show its popularity. Thanks to generous support from local businesses, ticket sales and a bumper raffle, in excess of £1,600 was raised on the night. This was then boosted with an extra £1,000 from the team at Barclays in Ipswich, taking the total to over £2,600. This event was all in aid of Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, a charity close to the hearts of The Hearing Care Centre. Karen Finch, Managing Director and founder of The Hearing Care Centre, expressed: “Hearing Dogs give many deaf people confidence, independence and companionship. I want to give a huge thank you to everyone who helped us support this great charity.”
CEREMONY OF CAROLS
SAMARITAN BOOKSHOP When you find after Christmas that you have no more room on those bookshelves to accommodate all those generous gifts, and you need to do a cull of the shelves, the Samaritan Bookshop will be pleased to receive your unwanted books. Collections can be arranged for larger amounts of books. To arrange a collection ring Janice on 01473 287727 and we will find a date and time to suit you. If, however, you are searching for a sequel, or looking for fresh inspiration visit the Aladdin’s Cave, otherwise known as the lower floor of the Samaritan’s Shop in Carr Street, Ipswich, where you’ll find a veritable treasure house of books on almost any subject.
LEARN TO DANCE ARGENTINE TANGO
Gippeswyk Singers are welcoming in the New Year with special guests Martlesham Brass in a concert at St Michael & All Angels Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL on Sunday, January 6 at 7.30pm.
Starting on Monday, January 7, Richard and Mandy from Suffolk Tango are offering the chance to learn the elegant, evocative social dance of Argentine Tango.
Enjoy an uplifting evening of beautiful music including Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols and Brian Latchem’s An Abundance of Blessings conducted by Gippeswyk Singers’ inspirational musical director Geoff Lavery and accompanied by the talented young professional harpist, Anna Wynne. Martlesham Brass will perform on their own as well as joining the singers for a wonderful medley from The Sound of Music which will have the whole audience singing along!
The five-week introductory course aims to provide a solid foundation in the key elements of Argentine Tango in an enjoyable sociable environment. It concentrates on how to lead and follow the fundamental steps of Argentine Tango. The dance is improvised to the music so there are no long sequences to learn.
Tickets £5 at the door and in advance from choir members or: paulgalley@btinternet.com Gippeswyk Singers are supporting local charities FIND (Families in Need/ Food Bank Ipswich) and ICSRE (Suffolk Law Centre). 2019 Spring Concert Update Tickets for Verdi’s Requiem, a special collaboration between Gippeswyk Singers, Beccles Choral Society, Phoenix Singers, Lambeth Orchestra and four outstanding international soloists at Snape Maltings on May 11, are already selling well. Conducted by Geoff Lavery, the massed chorus and full orchestra will have over 250 musicians. Tickets (£25, £20, £15) are available from members of all three choirs, cherylcoutts468@btinternet.com or Snape Box Office: 01728 687110 www.gippeswyksingers.co.uk
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Our current dancers are of all ages, some coming with a background of ballroom, salsa or modern jive, but many have never attended dance classes before. Once you try Argentine Tango you will soon get hooked and an exciting range of dancing opportunities near and far opens up. After this course you will be able to progress into our structured courses for improvers and intermediates. Prior booking is essential, but there is no need to book with a partner as we will offer places as and when we can match followers and leaders. What is more, we always rotate partners during the class to speed the learning process and to make the evening more fun. Held at The Richards Room, Martlesham Community Centre from 7.30 to 10pm on Mondays from January 7, the cost is just £40 per person for the five-week course. You can apply via the online form at www.suffolktango.org.uk, or contact: Mandy@suffolktango.org.uk / 07766 694618
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ON THE GRAPEVINE SMALL INVESTMENT OF TIME, BIG IMPACT Supporting young people in rural Suffolk is the focus of a careers mentoring programme recently set up by the Woodbridge-based Seckford Foundation to run alongside its wellbeing mentoring programme. This careers mentoring focuses on skills and routes into the workplace while boosting the young person’s confidence when seeking employment. Both programmes follow a tried and tested structure which includes plenty of resources and support for mentors together with a clear start and finish point for mentees so they can actually see how far they have progressed, what they have achieved and what their next step might be. Could you listen? Due to the success of the mentoring programmes, Seckford Foundation is now searching for further volunteer mentors to join the team. It is a mutually rewarding programme for both mentor and mentee, often with tangible results being quickly achieved. No previous mentoring experience is needed as training and development is ongoing. All that is needed is some life experience, a non-judgemental attitude, a good listening ear and a desire to make a positive difference to someone’s life. Both mentoring programmes are funded jointly by the Seckford Foundation, The Prince’s Countryside Fund and Salvation Army, and they are available to young people aged 25 and under to access for free. Could you be the difference a young person needs? Find out at: www.seckfordspringboard.org.uk/can-we-help-you/mentoring 01394 615199 / 07831120873 / enquiries@seckford-foundation.org.uk The Seckford Foundation is a charity that promotes and supports the education and care of the young and the elderly in and around the town of Woodbridge and the county of Suffolk. For more information visit: www.seckford-foundation.org.uk
CO-OP FUNERAL SERVICES SCOOPS DEMENTIA CARE ACCOLADE East of England Co-op Funeral Services has won the Outstanding Dementia Care Innovation Category in the National Dementia Care Awards 2018, which recognises the vital role of innovation in developing high quality services for people living with dementia. Dealing with the loss of a loved one is often not easy, and when someone is living with dementia it can become more challenging for them, their families and professionals too. To enable better support for families through the arrangement and funeral of a loved one, the East of England Co-op Funeral Services has undertaken bespoke dementia-friendly training, the first comprehensive training of its kind and unique to the funeral services industry. The training was developed and co-facilitated by Sharon Harkin, Dementia Champion at the East of Enwgland Co-op, and Danuta Lipinska, Specialist in Ageing and Dementia Care, with input from East of England Co-op Funeral Services teams. Danuta said: “It was a delight and an encouragement to see and hear large numbers of compassionate, enthusiastic, open hearted and open-minded women and men who are passionate about their work. With an impressive range of existing humanitarian and specific funeral skills, we had a very positive interaction and enthusiastic engagement.” Andrew Dawes of the East of England Co-op Funeral Services, said: “To be awarded with this accolade is a true testament to our compassionate and dedicated teams, who go above and beyond to support those in our care.” The East of England Co-op was previously named the Large Dementia-Friendly Organisation of the Year in 2016, in recognition of its work towards becoming the leading dementia-friendly retailer in the region.
OWL SANCTUARY APPEAL TO GET OFF THE BEATEN TRACK Suffolk Owl Sanctuary has launched an urgent fundraising appeal to enable them to develop and maintain the wild owl nest box scheme it runs in conjunction with volunteers from the Thornham Owl Project throughout East Anglia.
“Two out of the five native species of UK owl are amber listed for conservation importance, meaning they are in population decline. Part of the reason for this is the lack of nesting sites due to the demolition of old barns and outbuildings, the loss of connected habitat and the depletion of old, hollow trees lost to elm disease.
With Britain’s owl numbers in decline, the charity’s work in providing siting, erecting and maintaining nest boxes in the remote areas favoured by wild owls is vital to ensuring the conservation of the region’s native species.
“All of the sites that I have visited are tucked away out of site, usually well off the beaten track and some distance from tarmacked roads. It’s often difficult to reach some of the nest boxes, especially when it’s wet! A serviceable 4x4 will enable us to site new nest boxes and maintain our existing network of 290+ throughout the region.
Critical to this work is a 4x4 off-road vehicle, which enables them to reach remote areas to install, maintain and monitor nest boxes for various species including Little Owls, Tawny Owls and the iconic Barn Owl.
“As a registered charity we rely on donations from visitors and supporters so we are appealing to local all wildlife lovers to give anything they can to help us continue this vital work to support the conservation of these beautiful birds.”
Sadly their old, well used off-road vehicle, affectionately known as Mabel, is no longer fit for purpose, so the Sanctuary is urgently appealing for donations to allow them to purchase a new off-roader. Steve Duffell, a falconer at the sanctuary who has hands-on experience with the nest box scheme managed by the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, commented:
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To donate please visit the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary website, call 03456 807 897 or send a postal donation to The Trustees, Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal IP14 6AT. www.owl-help.org.uk
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