Welcome to the first edition of the Town Council Newsletter for 2023. Christmas and the New Year festivities seem some time ago now, but I want to thank and congratulate the members of our community for once again organising the Christmas Event, which we all enjoyed on a cold, and foggy day back in December. The Leiston Events Group, Long Shop Museum, Creative Leiston all worked very hard, along with Sonny and Karl Cracknell who put the Christmas lights up around the town.
We went into this winter with concerns for the Economy and how the increase in Energy bills would impact. The Town Council are pleased to support the Long Shop Museum and the Leiston Library with their warm room initiatives.
Since my last Newsletter notes, sadly Councillor Phil Harle has passed away. Phil worked very hard for the Town Council and the community of Leiston and was a person who cared a great deal about people. He was well respected in our community and is a great loss to us all. Our condolences go out to Sandra and family.
Councillor Susan Geater retired from Leiston Surgery at the end of 2022. Susan had been at the Surgery since 1987 and
also at Aldeburgh Community Hospital since 1980, which in total is 42 years service to the community. I thank Susan for her service and wish her all the best in her well earned retirement.
I am pleased that the Town Council were able to invest in new play equipment at the Victory Road Park recently and upgrade the facilities for the younger children to enjoy.
The Skate Park upgrade contract has now been awarded, after a lot of input by the Town Council Asset Manager, Skate Park users and Councillors to get a specification prepared, based on the users knowledge, experience and future needs. I look forward to seeing the work progress in the near future.
The Town Centre Regeneration Masterplan, went out to consultation back in September last year and there was some valuable input from residents, which the design team have used in producing the Masterplan proposal. Councillors have been briefed on the output, this has been shared with the community and I hope you were able to comment through the consultation process and have some input into how the plan will shape the way the Town Centre will evolve over the next few years.
The Town Council Elections will take place in May as we come to the end of the last 4 years tenure. If you feel that being a Councillor is something you might like to commit to and have input into how the interests of Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council are managed, then you may wish to consider to stand for election. If you are interested and would like to know more about it, the Town Clerk and myself will
be more than pleased to provide further information for you.
All the very best. John
John Last BEM - Chairman Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town CouncilWould you like to sponsor one of this year’s hanging baskets? You will receive a certificate of recognition and your name advertised on our website, Facebook page and in our newsletter.
Your welcome to donate as much or as little as you like to help support making
the town flourish during the late spring and summer months.
If you are interested in sponsoring a basket, please contact Bev at office@leistontowncouncil.gov.uk or on 01728 830388.
There is a lot of information out there about the support available both nationally and locally to help you with the Cost of Living:
Check out the UK Government website to see what support is available to help with the cost of living and find out how to save money with our energy saving tips https://helpforhouseholds. campaign.gov.uk/
Check out Suffolk County Council website who have compiled information about the different support and advice. https://www. suffolk.gov.uk/community-and-safety/communities/healthier/ cost-of-living-support/help-for-households
East Suffolk Council are co-ordinating a programme of advice and support to help people in East Suffolk with the rising cost of living.
https://www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/community/squeeze/
The Town Council was sad to lose a colleague and friend with the sudden passing of Councillor Philip Harle in November 2022.
Phil was a public spirited person, always wanting to achieve the best he could for the people of this community.
No more so than in 2015, when Phil decided to stand for the Town Council and was elected in May of that year and took up office as a Town Councillor.
Phil, always wanted the best for his town, his community and the people he represented and that was always evident in any council matters or dealings he was involved in.
Phil cared a lot about people, he was a supporter of the Labour Party, but it was about what was right for Leiston and the community he lived in. He offered his support for many things including trying to bring a NHS dentist back to Leiston and to Dentaid visits to the town.
Phil was a keen supporter of how the town looked and took pride in supporting,
The family of Philip Harle would like to thank everyone who, following his passing in November, sent sympathy cards, flowers and messages of support. We have been overwhelmed by the love and kindness shown to us by friends, neighbours and
tree planting, bulb planting events and litter picking.
Phil’s dedication to duty, was very much apparent when he continued to attend Council meetings whilst not feeling too well.
You would find Phil attending Civic events as a Councillor even attending the Remembrance Parade and service, two days before his passing.
Phil was a well respected member of the Town Council and Community and will be missed by so many people.
We continue with our thoughts for Sandra and the family.
As a mark of respect it is hoped to run a Litter Pick Event in memory of Phil and hope that the Community will join with Councillors on such an occasion.
Cllr John Last BEMwork colleagues. Thank you also to everyone who attended Philip's memorial service and who gave donations in his memory which, to date, total £952.25; this will be used for the upkeep of our beautiful parish church.
Leiston Town Council are working closely with partners to open a Wellbeing and CONNECT Hub (working title) at the Waterloo Centre.
The aim is to provide a space for statutory partners and local voluntary groups to offer formal and informal sessions, drop in clinics and services to support the local community.
As a result the delivery of community based health and care support are used more efficient, more people will have access to and are supported by activity outside of statutory services.
The Waterloo Centre is an ideal location for this pilot project and will bring together a range of stakeholders including:
Integrated Neighbourhood Team (INT) who work across Health, Social care and professionals to deliver key health objectives to improve the wellbeing of residents and reduce the demand on services
CONNECT – who bring together the voluntary and community sector to work collaboratively by identifying localised priorities and solution.
Local Voluntary sector organisations including the Leiston Good Neighbourhood Scheme and Leiston Dementia Project.
The project will be employing a part time coordinator to run the Wellbeing Centre which is planned
to be open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10.00-16.00. It is anticipated that the Centre will be up and running by 1 April 2023. Alde Valley Students are currently helping design a logo and identifying a suitable name for the Centre.
We are seeking volunteers to help run the centre to provide a warm welcome. We are particularly keen to hear from anyone with lived experience of mental health who can help shape the plans going forward.
If you would like further information on the project, please contact the Town Clerk.
In May 2023, local elections will be held to choose councillors who will represent Leiston-cum-Sizewell for the next four years. If you are passionate about your local community, we need you!
Councillors make a huge difference to the quality of life for local people and how local issues are dealt with. We would like people from all backgrounds and experiences, who reflect the communities they serve, to put themselves forward for election.
Being a councillor is highly rewarding. No other role gives you a chance to make such a huge difference to the quality of life of people in your local area and to influence the way issues are dealt with locally.
Councillors play a vital role in ensuring their community’s needs are met by making sure that the voices of their residents are heard and representing their views accordingly. Councillors work closely with the communities in their area to improve the quality of life for all residents and they have responsibility for a wide range of issues such as the environment, prosperity, equalities and social inclusion.
Councillors are likely to be involved in a wide variety of duties including:
• Preparing for and attending meetings
• Speaking on behalf of the community
• Public consultation and campaigning
• Policy formulation
• Responding to enquiries
• Representing the council at other meetings
• Looking at the services the council provides
• Monitoring the performance of the council
Am I qualified to become a town councillor?
There are no formal qualifications that you need to become a councillor! However, you do need to meet some legal criteria to be eligible to stand for office. If you meet these criteria, have an interest in the future of local services, and feel passionately about your local area then you may be exactly what we need!
How long is the term of office?
The term of office for a councillor is four years, but there is the option to resign part-way through your term if you are unable to continue in your position. At the end of the four-year term you can either retire or stand again in the next set of elections.
Once you have decided to stand for election you will need to decide whether you wish to stand as an independent
candidate, or as a representative of a political party. If you are standing on behalf of a party then you will need to contact them to become a member of the organisation, if you are not already.
For further information https://www. eastsuffolk.gov.uk/elections/ how-do-i-become-a-councillor/
Vehicles parked on pavements can be difficult for people to get round and may force them onto the road. This is dangerous for everyone, but is a particular problem for blind and partially-sighted people, parents with pushchairs and young children, wheelchair users and others who use mobility aids. People with a vision impairment, particularly guide dog owners and long cane users, use the kerb as a navigation tool to know where they are in a street. According to the Highway code you must not park partially or wholly on the pavement, and should not do so elsewhere unless signs permit it. The Highways Act also state that if a person, without lawful authority or excuse, in any way wilfully obstructs the free passage along a highway is guilty of an offence and liable to imprisonment or a fine, or both.
Some examples of other things that can be difficult for people to get round and may force them in to the road are:
• Advertising boards
• Badly parked cycles, scooters, mobility scooters and prams
• Chairs and tables
• Goods for sale
• Plant containers
If you are interested, please make contact with the Town Clerk.
We look forward to hearing from you.
• Vegetation
• Wheelie bins
Some guidance on how much space ought to be provided for pavement users:
• A person with a walking stick requires 750mm
• A blind person with a long cane or assistance dog needs 1100mm
• A visually impaired person who is being guided needs 1200 mm
• A wheelchair user and a passer-by need 1500 mm
Leiston Library has always offered a warm welcome, but during these tough times, we are also a ‘Warm Space’. Everyone is welcome to come in, have a hot drink or a cuppa soup and a nibble, and spend some time here. There are local newspapers, free use of computers and WiFi and various activities anyone is welcome to join in with. We also offer free menstrual products on a no-questions-asked basis.
Every month we have a drop in session with the East Suffolk Financial Inclusion team. They are here to give advice and tips on how to save money, deal with debt, and access grants for all sorts of things – childcare costs, broadband, rent, pay as you go energy bills – just drop in. Their forthcoming sessions are (all Tuesdays): 21st February, 21st March and 18th April, 10-12. No appointment needed and they offer a brilliant service.
East Suffolk Council is here every Friday to help with any council enquiries too –10-4, just drop in.
We would love to see more people coming along to our groups – perhaps you’ve decided to try something new this year? Our Art for Fun group is for people interested in painting and drawing who don’t know where to start – or who want to have a go with a bit of support. We have a helpful and artistic volunteer who can give you ideas! Last Friday of the month, 10-12.
We have two sessions on Thursday
mornings for babies, under 5s and their grown ups. ‘Me Myself & Baby’ is a Stay and Play session for parents and babies. Drop in between 9.40 – 10.20 for this friendly group run by Suffolk Libraries in partnership with Suffolk Mind. It offers a chance to meet other parents, fun for little ones, plus signposting to support if it’s needed. It’s followed every Thursday 10.30-11.00 by our baby and toddler songs and rhymetime session, ‘Wordplay’. Just drop in and enjoy – grandparents welcome too.
For children and families we have a colouring drop in on Saturdays, 11-12, and a Lego drop in on Sundays 10.15-11.30.
Our familiar services are running as usualour fantastic selection of books for adults and children, audio books, reservations from all around the county, PC use, printing, scanning and photocopying.
Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates and other news. If you have any suggestions for groups or activities do let us know.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
The Suffolk Climate Change Partnership, which is made up of all the Local Authorities in Suffolk, have purchased several thermal imaging cameras which they are loaning out to community groups to carry out surveys in their areas for free.
Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council has booked a camera for Tuesday 11/04/2023 to Monday 24/04/2023 working with Net Zero Leiston https://www.netzeroleiston.info/
Our aim in running the project is to raise awareness about insulation, and if possible, help you to improve the energy efficiency of your house. This could mean a reduction in fuel bills, better health and reducing the total amount of carbon dioxide that we emit into the atmosphere.
Thermal imaging works by detecting the infrared radiation emitted by a building and using it to determine the temperature of the surface of walls, windows, doors, roof etc. Objects at different temperatures emit varying amounts of infra-red and the infra-red camera translates these differences into an image with different colours representing cool (blue/purple) to hot (white/red) temperatures.
Infra-red radiation cannot pass through glass and so the camera cannot see through your windows, doors, or walls. This means that a thermal imaging survey will not invade your privacy, and what we are seeing in the images is only the outside surface of the house. Glass
reflects infra-red radiation, so any shapes you may see in pictures of the windows will be due to reflections from outside.
A thermal image of the outside surface of your house is useful because it can show areas which maybe conducting heat from the inside to the outside of the house. Ideally insulation, either in a cavity inside the walls or in a layer in the loft, should minimise the heat loss through the walls or loft. However, if there are gaps in the insulation, or places where it has been bridged by a conducting structure, then we will see a hotter pattern on the outside surface. Similarly for windows and doors, we can see in the image if there is a poor seal around them that is letting warm air escape, or if they are poorly insulated (e.g. single glazed windows).
What can you learn from a thermal imaging survey?
If your house is relatively new, already has insulated cavity walls and double glazing and feels warm – you might not learn much, except to get an even warmer glow after confirming your house is well insulated!
If your house is older and seems difficult to keep warm - you might learn exactly where the heat is escaping and get some ideas about where to insulate.
A thermal imaging survey might
• identify places which might have draughts
• detect whether cavity wall insulation is patchy or missing
• detect areas with less loft insulation (although roofs are tricky to image with the camera)
If you would like us to include your house in the
survey please contact us on 01728 830388 or by email townclerk@leistontowncouncil.go.uk
Groundwork East have worked with us for several years are offering free impartial advice to householders which I am sure would be welcomed by many within our communities.
All the householders have to do is to either call them on 01473 350370 to go through some simple questions about their home or complete the home audit checklist here: https://www. surveymonkey.co.uk/r/SuffolkHomeEnergyAudit
The outcome will be impartial tailored advice for their property type or signposting where
appropriate, to the ‘Warm Homes Suffolk’ scheme.
This impartial advice could really help if anyone is considering investing in renewable energy for their home and/or want advice on how to insulate their home properly.
I’m hoping you could promote this ‘Home Energy Advice Service.’ Suffolk Climate Change Partnership are also supporting and promoting this via:
https://www.greensuffolk.org/low-impactenergy/
A chilly, bright morning in late October greeted volunteers from the community and Leiston Youth and Community Angling Society for a bulb planting and wildflower seed sowing session at Haylings Pond.
Thanks to the efforts of LYCAS volunteers, a once overgrown and untidy section of the
meadow, close to ‘The Prom’ had been cleared to make way for native bulbs and a wildflower meadow area. It is hoped that the warm months in early winter will have given the bulbs and seeds a good start. We will all watch with interest to see how this area develops and hope that our residents enjoy the added interest to our hidden gem, Haylings Pond. Many thanks to Gary Whiting and his team of volunteers for helping to make this happen and to our residents who gave up their Saturday morning to help.
With recent local events, Alde Valley Academy decided to further educate its pupils on the dangers of knife crime. The school welcomed PCSO Justin Winn, from Suffolk Police to the school to speak with all year groups about Knife Crime - a topic of a growing concern. They took the time to explain how important this crime is and how it hugely affects victims and the communities. The students were shown a PowerPoint about Knife crime and heard from real families who had been the victims of it. There was an opportunity to ask questions at the end followed by some smaller group work, where students empathised about the impact of knife crime on the victim, the perpetrator and their families.
Year 9 student commented, “It was very educational, beneficial and interesting. Another student commented, “We are very thankful to have been given the opportunity to learn more about being a police officer. It was really great that students were able to ask questions and contribute to the discussions”.
They also arranged a police lunchtime drop-in. During this time, pupils could have conversations with the police officers about knife crime. One parent
commented, “With what’s going on around the area lately, I’m really glad the police and Alde Valley Academy are educating their students on this problem”.
Miss Whatling, PSHE Lead, commented, “Hopefully this has made an important impact on the students and will shape/ influence their future behaviour, should they ever find themselves in a knife related situation”.
The Year 10 PSHE drop down day took place on November 10th, 2022, During the day, the students rotated around a carousel of 4 sessions, taken by both staff and external agencies.
Topics looked at included a session covering basic First Aid, the recovery position, delivering CPR and the use of
- where pupils were able to get some practical experience using the CPR dummies.
The Schools Mental Health Team looked at happiness and well-being, helping our students to identify with factors affecting anxiety and low mood, plus providing 5 ways to well-being and techniques to cope with these feelings. ‘Make a Change’ then tackled healthy and unhealthy relationships as well as consent, which produced some excellent thought-provoking discussions. Finally, students were spoken to about the importance of knowing their own bodies and the techniques for screening and selfexamination, vital for early detection.
Feedback from both staff, students and parents was very positive and has hopefully equipped the Year 10 with some
invaluable information to help them deal with situations in the future.
The Year 11 PSHE drop down morning took place early in December, with the students rotating round sessions dealing with coping with exam stress, relationship issues such as domestic abuse, coercive control and safety scenarios looking at a variety of age-related issues, how to deal with them and most importantly, where to get help, plus a sensitive session covering the topic of FGM, honour based violence and forced marriage.
Mr Mayhew, Headteacher, commented “Our PSHE curriculum covers a diverse range of subjects in order to support our young people to make the right choices to make them happy and healthy. We really appreciate the support received from external agencies”.
As part of the Notcutts 125 year celebration, they are distributing 125 trees to all areas of the county and beyond. Mr Andrews kindly nominated Alde Valley Academy to receive some of the trees.
Lead Ambassadors from the school along with Mr Ayling (site supervisor) received and planted the trees along the student walkway in the front of the school.
Mr Mayhew, Headteacher, commented “Our sincere thanks go to Mr Andrews and Notcutts for their generosity”.
Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council are excited to be working alongside Betongpark this February, to redevelop and extend Victory Recreational Ground Skate Park. The project in total will cost £140,000 and is being funded in co-operation with East Suffolk Council and Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council.
A team of dedicated people from Leistoncum-Sizewell Town Council and the local skaters have been working hard to secure the right skate park company to work with and after fierce competition, Betongpark won the contract and have created an amazing design to redevelop the current skate park.
Since 2012 Betongpark has worked passionately to design and construct unique spaces for skateboarding and urban activities. Founded originally in Oslo, Norway before establishing a second office in London, England, Betongpark is recognised as one of Europe’s industry leaders in skate park design and construction.
The key to their success is deep roots in the skateboarding community. From the team in the office to the crew on site, they are 100% skater run, operated and built. As life-long riders themselves they cherish and
understand these unique environments, not merely as a sporting arena but as a meeting place for subcultures to thrive. The spaces we create aim to inspire and educate.
To enable Betongpark to design a park that the skaters will really want and use, it was important that the skaters got involved in choosing what they wanted to see in the park,. After a few meetings and talking to skaters at their Skate Jams a list was formed!
From here Betongpark have developed an outstanding design addition to the current skate park, the design will include a bowl, which will include a 6ft and 4ft depth, rolled edges and a ‘snake run’ flow in and out of the bowl. This will lead into the old park as well as a new plaza area, which will feature a ledge, flat bar rail and a challenging stair set!
This unique design is not seen in any skate parks near-by and I’m sure when complete will offer hours of fun for all skaters of all abilities.
Work on this design will begin in February, so if your walking through Victory Recreational Grounds do check out what is happening.
Hi, my name is Dan Webz and I am a Full time skateboarder/ Content creator from Leiston in Suffolk. We have recently been preparing for our local skate park on Victory Recreational Grounds to have a full HD remaster thanks to the amazing folks at Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council.
The skate park itself will be receiving a much needed upgrade, however the old park that the new obstacles will be added to, has seen better days.
I feel like we are already extremely blessed to have what we have, but in regards to safety / ease of use, there are a few sections of the older park that could do with a nice bit of TLC. Now while we do have a generous budget for the additional obstacles, its difficult to say if we will have the left over funding to fix up the issues with the old park.
In light of this the Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council has offered me the
opportunity to raise some extra money for this goal. The council has offered to double any funds we raise up to a maximum of £2,000. So if we raise £2,000 we will have £4,000 to fix up the old park. This money will go to good use, fixing cracks, sorting out rusty copings and if we have any left over perhaps even a nice paint job.
What’s more the wonderful guys at Betongparks are willing to show any volunteers how to smooth concrete, buff out cracks and other great tips on how to look after our skate park, all free of charge - a great opportunity not to be missed by any future skate park designers or builders out there!
So, whether you’re a skate park mum/ dad, scooter extraordinaire or love to skateboard just like me, we would absolutely love it if you could help us reach our goals. To donate you can either Scan the QR code or go to www.crowdfunder.
co.uk/p/leistonskatepark
Your chance to be a part of something BIG
Fri 10th Feb at 5.00pm
Sat 11th - Sun 19th Feb at 3.00pm
PG -
Fri 10th - Thurs 16th Feb at 7.15pm
PLANE 15 -
Fri 17th & Sat 18th Feb at 7.15pm
Sun 19th Feb at 6.00pm
Mon 20th & Tues 21st Feb at 7.15pm
Wed 22nd Feb at 3.00pm
Thurs 23rd Feb at 7.15pm
12A -
Mon 20th Feb at 7.15pm
Tues 21st Feb at 3.00pm
Wed 22nd Feb at 7.15pm
Thurs 23rd Feb at 3.00pm
Leiston Film Theatre
Sun 26th Feb at 7.30pm.
On what would have been the George Harrison's 80th Birthday, Beatlemania is back, as The VOX Beatles take you on a magical musical mystery tour of 2 hours of Beatles classics. All performed with original musical instruments and authentic costumes, covering the time line of the world’s greatest ever band. Having performed at the legendary Cavern Club and toured the world celebrating the music of John, Paul, George, and Ringo, it's going to be an evening to remember.
Tickets: £17.50, Conc. £16.50
NOW BOOKING - 01728 830549
www.leistonfilmtheatre.co.uk
Live entertainment at Leiston’s iconic Film Theatre is to benefit from a series of major stage improvements, designed to enhance the shows for audiences and ease the effort of producing performances at the venue.
The upgrades include new stage safety flooring and automated stage tracking and have been made possible, thanks to a grant from Suffolk County Councillor T.J. Haworth-Culf, investment by Leistoncum-Sizewell Town Council and match funding from the Leiston Film Theatre Support Club.
The new stage safety flooring has been kindly sponsored at a cost of £1,968 by Suffolk County Councillor T.J. HaworthCulf, who recognises the efforts of everyone involved in keeping Suffolk’s oldest cinema going. “As a regular visitor to the Film Theatre, I’m only too aware of the endeavours that the management, Town Council and Support Club make, to ensure that the venue not only provides an excellent all-round experience, but has initiative to constantly improve that experience further.” she said.
The new automated stage tracking has cost £21,350 and has been funded by Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council, with match funding from the Leiston Film Theatre Support Club. The new system will enable scenery to be easily raised and lowered via a series of electronic winches.
Previously, these tracks had to be raised manually and could be extremely heavy and problematic. Lesley Hill, Chairman of the Leiston Film Theatre Support Club, is pleased that the club have been able to offer financial support and said “The Club is delighted that Councillor Haworth-Culf and Leiston Town Council have supported this phase of our ‘Behind the Scenes’ project which was launched in 2015.”
The Leiston Film Theatre Support Club was formed in 1992 and have raised in excess of £122,000 to provide financial assistance towards the many improvements made at the venue. The club has recently celebrated it’s 30th Anniversary and their grand draw raised an impressive £802. The Club currently has 265 members, with membership costing £6.00 per year. For further details about the Club and membership details, please visit the club’s website at: www. leistonfilmtheatresupport.club, or pick up a membership form from the Leiston Film Theatre box office.
The Club is always looking for committee members and helpers. If you would like to learn more, please contact Lesley Hill, Chairman, LFTSC on 01728 830514.
For further details about what’s on at Leiston Film Theatre, please visit: www. leistonfilmtheatre.co.uk, or find them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
fundraising and support that the Club provides for Suffolk’s iconic cinema.
A vital source of support for one of the country’s oldest surviving cinemas is facing an uncertain future, as a number of long serving committee members have recently announced that they will be stepping down at the end of February.
Leiston Film Theatre Support Club was formed in 1992, as an independent group to raise funds to improve the facilities and interior décor of the Leiston Film Theatre, through numerous fund-raising activities and social events.
The Club have provided outstanding financial assistance towards the many improvements made at the venue over the past 30 years, totalling £135,000, and as the Club celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2022, several long serving committee members intend to step down from their various roles at the Club’s Annual General Meeting in March 2023.
Between them, these six members have served a remarkable 126 years on the committee and will leave the organisation with the sincere appreciation of the Club’s few remaining committee members, Film Theatre management and Leiston-cumSizewell Town Council, for their remarkable achievements over the past 30 years.
With the imminent retirement of committee members, the Club is urgently seeking volunteers to come forward to join their committee to continue the important
Lesley Hill, who is herself standing down from her role as Club Chairman, is hopeful that new members will come forward, or that the Club can be restructured to continue offering assistance to the Film Theatre. “I very much hope that people will come forward to continue the invaluable work the committee has already undertaken and provide additional improvements to further enhance the Film Theatre for the future.”
Film Theatre Manager, Wayne Burns, believes that the Club’s valued members will want to see the Club prevail in some form. “The retiring committee members have my sincere thanks for all that they have done for the Film Theatre and we couldn’t have achieved most of our improvements without them. It’s very apparent that our loyal customers want to show their support to their cinema of choice and they see their membership to the Support Club as a small annual contribution to aid the cinema. We will do what we can to encourage some form of membership fund raising scheme to continue” he said.
The Support Club’s Annual General Meeting will be held at Leiston Film Theatre on Saturday 4th March at 10.30am, with complimentary tea and coffee served from 10.00am.
Anyone interested in learning more about the Support Club committee and how they may get involved, should contact Lesley Hill on 01728 830514.
Get a fresh perspective on history at The Long Shop Museum
Our 2023 Season opens on Sunday 26th March
Full details, including our special events, are on our website.
www.longshopmuseum.co.uk
The Community Hub at The Long Shop Museum is open every Monday & Wednesday, from 10am to 4pm.
We’ve hot drinks & biscuits, books, games, puzzles & wi-fi.
So, why not drop in for a seat and a cuppa if you’re out and about, or meet up for a chat with friends?
Leiston Makes Space for Wildlife will be holding another Big Dig event in March
The Big Dig Event will be at the Community Orchard. Keep an eye on the Town Council website and Facebook page for the confirmed date of the Big Dig.
www.leistontowncouncil.gov.uk facebook.co.uk/leistontowncouncil
What a fantastic year it was for the band in 2022. It was definitely our busiest and most successful year since the pandemic, and so good to be out playing again at such a wide variety of events.
It was certainly the year for royal events with the band playing at various engagements to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the very sad passing of the Queen in September which led to the succession of King Charles III where the band were extremely honoured to play at Ipswich Town Hall to mark the Proclamation on behalf of Suffolk to an audience of over 10,000 people!
Whilst things are a little quieter now, the diary is already getting booked up for the year head and another royal event in May
with the Coronation of King Charles III. Our first engagement of the year will be a concert at Woodbridge Community Centre on Saturday 4th February 2023 at 7pm to mark 140th anniversary of Woodbridge Salvation Army, with all proceeds going to their food bank.
To keep up to date on what’s happening with the band and where we will be playing next, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook or go to our website at www. leistonband.org.
Don’t forget, if you play brass or percussion, we would love to see you. Alternatively, if you are interested in learning to play, we have a training band which would be a great place to start. To find out more information, please contact our Musical Director, Peter Gray on 07388 868247.
The LYCAS Bailiffs and volunteers have had a busy Autumn and Winter so far delivering the remaining activities of the fishing programme, along with maintenance of Haylings pond. Most of the maintenance work has involved cutting back excess growth around the ponds margins, ready for next Spring. Some of the volunteers also helped clear the area for the new wildflower meadow, putting up fencing and sowing seeds.
The final fun angling competition of the year was the annual children’s Christmas match and despite the cold weather, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm or quality of fishing. The winners received tackle shop vouchers and all
participants got a selection box.
Following the Christmas competition the pond froze due to the cold snap, therefore fishing was temporarily curtailed. The committee were very sad to see so much debris thrown onto the ice while the pond was frozen, in the shape of branches, fencing, bricks and bottles. The committee strongly asks anyone who did this not to do it in the future. When the pond melted, all this debris had to be removed by the bailiffs, which is a difficult task and anything that gets missed, or sinks can be a hazard to the fish and other wildlife residing in the pond.
In the coming weeks, the committee will be getting things ready for the coming season, which promises to be even more successful, building on the previous years positives.
If you would like to become a member, or find out more about LYCAS, please contact any of the bailiffs via the details on the notice board at Haylings pond or pop into Saxmundham Angling Centre.
Our wish is to have fun, try something new, make friends and be proud of your whatever you achieve, so why not come and try guiding whether you are a child or an adult.
What we offer is a programme of exciting, adventurous activities and badges, there’s a huge range of activities to try, plenty of badges to earn and loads of ways to develop new skills.
Girls can work toward a range of amazing awards to mark their achievements. Our range of awards inspires girls and celebrates their achievements all of them take time and commitment to achieve, which is why they’re something girls can be really proud of. Our congratulations to two of our Brownies who have achieve their Bronze Award.
Our Rainbows, Brownie and Guide units Spring term has lots of activities from First Aid (what to do in an emergency), DIY (how to use Tools), Home skills (Cooking on a budget), Crafts (from around the World, Music, Torchlight Treasure Hunt as well as quizzes and games. We look forward to Celebrating World Thinking Day with all our units together for the first time in 3 years, covid no longer restricts us. Everyone will renew their promise and celebrate guiding around the world whilst having fun at our merry-go-round of funfair games.
Summer term plans are already underway for residential events of Sleepover’s and County Camp.
We cannot offer all these opportunities without our dedicated team of adult volunteers who give their time and skills freely. Our wish is for your help to become the next generation of Leaders; our units need you. Guiding has a new Leadership Development programme which is split into three areas, you can learn at your own pace, with much of it online through the Guiding Learning Platform, you will join a unit and be assigned a mentor to support you.
The opportunity is here for girls and adults today, register at Girl Guiding UK, https://go.girlguiding.org.uk/join-us/joinas-member/
Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Unit Helpers, Leaders of Leiston and Knodishall Units
The Society was pleased to welcome a distinguished guest to their Christmas social and quiz event held in the afternoon of 14th. December at the United Church Hall, Leiston.
Cllr. John Last BEM, Chairman of Leiston Town Council was formally welcomed by the Society's Honorary Chair, Michael Simons, and introduced to the members and their guests. Cllr. Last was then shown around the various philatelic exhibits taken from members collections, and also a display of Christmas Island stamps through the ages. Cllr. Last was also invited to take part in the quiz. Later in the afternoon, members and guests were invited to partake of the excellent buffet and wine provided by the Society for the occasion, and afterwards Cllr. Last presented the prizes to the winner and runners-up of the quiz.
In his closing speech, Cllr.Last thanked the Society for inviting him along, and said how much he had enjoyed the event, even though he had only be able to answer a
few of the quiz questions ! He went on to say how important it was for him to keep abreast of the activities of local Society's and Clubs in the area, and wished all present a very Happy Christmas..
The Society's honorary chair, Michael Simons, thanked Cllr. Last for attending the meeting and showing such a keen interest in the Society's activities and also gave his seasonal greetings to all present.
The meeting closed about 4pm.
The Society has been active in the Leiston area for more than 50 years and now has more than 45 members covering a wide area, however, new members are always welcome. The Society's monthly meetings, displays and competitions will continue through 2023 until June, and meetings will recommence in the autumn after the summer break.
Further information about the Society can be obtained from Alan Martin on 01728 832455 or e-mail: andy.soutar@ btinternet.com
Would you like to grow your own fruit and vegetables but don’t have a garden or the time to work on a whole allotment? The Community Allotment gives you the chance to take on a small area to try out for free and we provide tools and seeds. The purpose of the allotment is to encourage people who are new to growing and this year it is even more important with everyone facing rising bills and food costs. We can help you get started and there is a group session on Wednesday mornings from around April to October if the weather is kind.
Even if you don’t want to grow anything but would like to get involved in other ways, we would love to hear from you. It’s a beautiful spot to sit in nice weather. We
would be grateful for any help you could give as it’s quite a big site and needs a lot of watering and maintaining. We are all volunteers trying to do something for the benefit of local people so if you could spare the odd hour to do a bit of weeding that would be fantastic.
February is the start of the seed sowing season so now is the time to think about getting involved. We are having an open day on Saturday 25th March between 10am and 1pm (weather permitting) so do pop along and we can show you around. The allotment is located at the north-east end of the Valley Road allotment site near the railway bridge. The nearest entrance is the last track on the right before the bridge on Valley Road. Or you can come along the track from King George’s Avenue with Charles Adams Close to your right.
If you would like to find out more, do call us on 07724 777465 or email leistongoodneighbour@gmail.com. Or just pop a note through the Leiston Town Council door with your phone number and one of us will call you.
The Leiston Works Railway (LWR) are pleased to announce they are holding a Quiz Night on Friday 3rd March 2023 at Knodishall Village Hall starting at 7.00pm.
All proceeds are in aid of the LWR, which is relaying the industrial railway line that connected the two Garrett factories in Leiston.
During the evening there will be a supper as well as a draw. Please note that you will need to bring your own drinks. Teams are a maximum of six people with the cost being £7.00 per person. Teams must be booked in advance.
For more details and to book a team, please contact Jim on 07800500278 or Stephen on 01728 831902.
Since Lockdown the Deben District is now once again fully functioning and the Leiston Scout group has seen a large increase in members in all sections- Beavers - Cubs - Scouts. At the end of last summer we held our first camp for over 2 years at the Sizewell Christian Hall for all our sections where we had a number of activities over the two days. This year there is a District Camp being held at Henham Park (home of Latitude festival) where over 500 young people from all sections will be camping and enjoying activities. The World Scout Jamboree is being held in South Korea
FRIDAY 3rd MARCH 2023
7.00PM
AT KNODISHALL VILLAGE HALL
TABLES OF UP TO SIX PEOPLE
£7.00 PER PERSON
(INCLUDES SUPPER)
BRING YOUR OWN DRINKS
DRAW
TO BOOK A TEAM TELEPHONE JIM ON 07800500278 or STEPHEN ON 01728 831902
(TABLES MUST BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE)
this summer and one of our leaders Marcus Burch is assistant leader with the Suffolk contingent of 36 Scouts attending this event.
With the increase in numbers we are looking for more volunteers to join our team in all sections, maybe you were once a Scout and would like to get involved again, there is no age limit but you must be 18 years of age. It does not matter if you cannot commit to every week as job sharing is an option, going into uniform is not essential. If you would like any further details then please contact; leistonscouts@aol.com or steve.burch@ suffolkscouts.org.uk - 07889799415
The Greenkeepers have been busy throughout the winter on the green every few days, to ensure the green will be in peak condition for the 2023 season.
Another change will be the new playing shirts, a mix of blue with the LTAA badge amended to include the icon of the game of bowls.
Worry that the club could fold last year has been long forgotten as confidence grew throughout 2022 as new bowlers joined, young, youthful and very keen. Again this year the enthusiasm is catching, more new players are promised and the influx from last year all polishing their woods so as to be ready for the new 2023 season.
Have you ever thought about trying to learn
the skills, line & length, sounds to technical, you will get the basics in first few weeks. Come and join us.
Coaching, equipment all available free to assist you to learn the game.
No joining fee, £30 general members under 60, Old Age pensioners £25. juniors (under eighteen) £10- family four or more £75, all yearly subscriptions.
Contact – Richard Battle 07841647166, Craig Alexander 07759918387, Bing Boast 07889451703 or bingboast1941@gmail. com, or visit the green, just past LTAA Club house, most evenings April /September, green open second Sunday in April.
A welcome awaits you, fresh air, moderate exercise, good social interaction a fun game with many benefits.
https://www.szcworkstracker.co.uk/track-a-project/
Suffolk Police:101 (ask for Leiston SNT)
Email: leistonaldeburgh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk
101 is the police number to report any non emergency.
Tel: 01728 830526
Main Street, Leiston, IP16 4ES
Email: sec.leistonsurgery@nhs.net
DOCTORS: Dr Blades, Dr Maggs, Dr Qureshi, Dr Barstow, Dr Calfa,
Public Defibrillator: Outside Co-op (Sizewell Road), Children’s Centre (Waterloo Avenue), outside the LTAA function room and Haylings Pond. Other defibrillators are available (when open) in the Community Centre, the Library, the Film Theatre and Alde Valley Academy (outside reception).
Community Car Service: Tel: 831215
Job Centre: Tel: 401004
Library: Tel: 831252
Long Shop Museum: Tel: 832189
Leisure Centre: Tel: 830364
Citizens Advice: Tel: 832193
LEEWAY: Tel: 0845 2142171
(Domestic violence & abuse service)
CRUSE : Tel: 01394 670770
(Bereavement Care)
The Ferns: Tel: 01473 668974
(Sexual Assault Referral Centre)
Leiston Primary School: Tel: 830745
Alde Valley Academy: Tel: 830570
SCotC Tel: 07767114770
(Suffolk New College on the Coast)
Leiston Good Neighbour Scheme: Tel: 07724 777465 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
leistongoodneighbour@gmail.com
Leiston Children’s Centre: Tel: 642930
LFT Support Club: (Leiston Film Theatre) Tel: 831714
Leiston Scouts: (Steven Burch) Tel: 832479
Leiston Guides, Brownies, Rainbows:
(Vicky Taylor) Tel: 07530697826
Leiston Youth Club: (Lucy Pickett) via Facebook
Leiston WI: (Judy Geater) Tel: 831628
CYDS: (Stuart Watson) Tel: 830716
CATS: (Accessible Transport on demand) Tel: 830516
Leiston Worry Tree worrytreeleiston@gmail.com
Leiston Swimming Club: (Matt Dye) Tel: 833266
Email: mathew.dye@btopenworld.com
PISCES Disabled Swimming Club: Tel: 648270
Rose & Sweet William: (Ann Bayley) Tel: 831219
The Band of Royal British Legion: Tel: 833458
Email: secretary@leistonband.org
SAMARITANS Helpline: Tel: 08457 909090
Leiston Town Pastors: Tel: 603221
E-mails to any Town Councillor should be through townclerk@leistontowncouncil.gov.uk
Ms. Helen Greengrass: Email: townclerk@leistontowncouncil.gov.uk
RFO & ASSETS OFFICER
Mrs. Hannah Everett-Spearing: Email: assets@leistontowncouncil.gov.uk
ADMIN ASSISTANT
Mrs. Beverly Kemp: Email: office@leistontowncouncil.gov.uk
Address: Council Offices, Main Street, Leiston, IP16 4ER Tel: 01728 830388
OFFICE OPENING HOURS:
& Tuesday: 09:00 - 13:00 & 14:00 - 16:00
Wednesday: Closed Thursday & Friday: 09:00 - 13:00
