The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

The

2021

FELIXSTOWE

MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO THE GEMS OF FELIXSTOWE DURING COVID-19

DOWNLOAD THE FELIXSTOWE APP FOR REGULAR GOOD NEWS IN FELIXSTOWE

£5

1

Felixstowe at your fingertips

THE FELIXSTOWE APP NOW AVAILABE TO DOWNLOAD | APP STORE | GOOGLE PLAY STORE

WEEKLY NEWS | UPDATES | EVENTS | LISTINGS | OFFERS

AND NOW YOU CAN SEND YOUR STORIES AND PHOTOS TO US DIRECTLY THROUGH OUR APP!

DOWNLOAD TODAY 2

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Contents Page 3 Editor’s Note

Page 44 Poetry in Motion

Page 4-5 Message from the Mayor of Felixstowe

Page 45 The Chamber of Commerce

Page 6-9 Coping with COVID: Inspiring stories

Page 46-47 The Bus Shelter Page 48-51 Art Meets Poetry

Page 10-11 Local Game Developer Page 52-53 Aaron Gwynaire In the Garden Page 12-13 Page 54-55 142 Gallery Local History Page 15 Page 56-59 Local Lad The Big Dip for Breast Dean Wales Cancer Page 16-17 Page 60-61 BASIC Life Charity Young Photographer Page 18-20 Page 62-63 Kim’s Blog Creativity and Humour Photo of the Year Page 64-65 Page 21 Local Photographers Landguard Fort Page 22-23 Local Poet Penny Parker

Page 66 SET Maidstone & Caulston Schools

Page 24-25 The Big Food Blog

Page 67 The Online Print Gallery

Page 26 Book Review Page 28-29 Joan’s Walk Page 30-31 Local Opera Singer Christina Johnston Page 32-34 Local Artist Ashley Peck

Page 68 Perceiving the World Through Imagination Page 69 Paddle Boarding in Felixstowe Page 70 Level Two Page 71-87 Community Listings

Page 35 Local Singer/Songwriter Page 89-97 MJ Soul What’s On Guide Page 36-37 Page 98-100 Litter-Free Felixstowe Just for Fun Page 38-40 Page 101 Health & Fitness with Order your copy Superhero Fitness Page 102 Page 41 Index & Directory New Public Art Project Page 42-43 The Winter Bee

2021 EDITION

I would like to wish you a sincere Happy New Year - not quite the usual welcome to our annual edition, but one I think we all need!

There are an abundance of memories from 2020 we hope will quickly fade away, but... I am truly astounded with the legacies, contribution, resilience and resourcefulness the Felixstowe people have shown in these tough times. The gems of Felixstowe shone brighter than ever and I am honoured to dedicate this 2021 edition to them all.

To adapt to these times we are proud to have launched The Felixstowe App which is full of regular good news, updates, events, listings, and more.

Our offers section of the magazine has moved onto the app, so you can now get access to local discounts throughout the year. You can even directly send us articles and photos through the app so you can stay in touch with us and recommend content any time.

I wish you all the very best for 2021.

May it bring you happiness, success and good health.

TheEditor

Cover photo credit: Jay Saddler from Sugar & Spice Photography Email: info@thefelixstowemagazine.com Facebook: @thefelixstowemagazine Twitter: @felixstowemag Instagram: @thefelixstowemagazine Website: thefelixstowemagazine.com © 2021 Birdy Publications Ltd (T/A The Felixstowe Magazine). All Rights Reserved. Address: 7 Bell Yard, London, WC2A 2JJR. Company number 08881555. Publisher: Birdy Publications Ltd. The views expressed by individuals in any letter or article are included at the discretion of the publishers are not necessarily the views of the Editor or publisher. Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this magazine and the statements contained herein are believed to be correct, the Editor and publishers of this publication will not hold themselves responsible for any inaccuracies. Inclusion of advertisers in this magazine is not necessarily a recommendation but we do hope they give a good quality service. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the publishers and contributors.

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021 3

Town Council A message from the Mayor of Felixstowe I am delighted to have been asked to contribute to this year’s edition of The Felixstowe Magazine. May I take this opportunity to wish you all a happy and healthy 2021. I do appreciate that we face numerous challenges before emerging from the recent challenging time, apart from the health concerns some people will be waiting for confirmation that they still have a job and businesses will be assessing their viability. There were, however, many positives that did emerge, such as; the strengthening of our sense of community spirit; the way organisations (both established and new) responded to provide incredible support and continue to do so; the adaptability of independent shopkeepers who resolved to ensure their businesses survived; and, of course, the way we each individually responded to the ever-changing situation, which in no-doubt helped to contribute to the low number of cases we have had here in Felixstowe.

I would also like to recognise the incredible commitment of the staff from our surgeries, community hospital and care homes who particularly in the early stages of the pandemic 4

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

found the whole experience very challenging. I hope they never have to experience that level of demand again.

With encouraging news about the future, we must now be optimistic and I hope that businesses across the town will be able to forge ahead with increased confidence and that restrictions and lockdowns are confined to the past. I appreciate that it may take months to fully recover and there will be a big role for the incoming Business Improvement District (BID) to bring in initiatives to attract more people to the town and buck the trend experienced by so many others.

The staff at Visit Felixstowe really came to the fore during the pandemic,

pro-actively promoting the businesses in the town centre and along the sea front, the feedback I have received has been both positive and appreciative. If we build on the work of Visit Felixstowe the BID should prove to be a positive step in slowly recovering from this very challenging period. Anything that attracts more people into the town must be welcomed.

proves to be a success for everyone involved on the project.

I was able to attend the soft launch of Beach Street at the beginning of December where Charles and Johnny Manning continued with their ambitious plans even during the pandemic. I was very impressed with the layout. Even though they have some finishing touches, Beach Street provides an opportunity for smaller businesses to operate at affordable rates. I hope the venture

I believe we do have a lot to look forward to in Felixstowe this year. There are a number of ambitious projects being led

by East Suffolk District Council which, when complete, will make the town even more attractive for residents and visitors.

Beach Street is just one aspect of rejuvenating that area of Felixstowe - the new cafĂŠ at Martello Park will be completed during the summer of 2021, the Spa Gardens in that area will also see improvements making the whole length of the prom a very inviting area.

I wish you all the very best.

Mark Jepson

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

5

FELIXSTOWE

Coping with Covid

Felixstowe community spirit shone brighter than ever!

COVID brought out the best in us.

From every corner of Felixstowe, the community spirit shone brighter than ever! Though difficult times, we wanted to share with you some highlights from 2020 that truly warmed our hearts.

marathon music at the start. Heidi ran to raise invaluable funds for the MND (Motor Neurone Disease) Association. She lost her father, Peter Comley, to MND in 1992. Heidi said, “I've run in both the coldest and the hottest London Marathons on record but never in conditions faced on Felixstowe seafront on Sunday.”

London Marathon

On the day, Heidi’s husband, David, cycled with her and family and friends stood in awful conditions for over 4 hours on the prom with an endless supply of jelly babies and flapjacks.

Coronavirus edition

Heidi raised over £3300. If you’d like to make a donation, here’s the link for you. http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/heidib

Local Children Fundraise for Children in Need On Sunday 4th October 2020, local lady Heidi completed her 11th London Marathon. This London Marathon was somewhat different to the others as instead of a (usually) warm, sunny April day in London with the streets lined with cheering crowds, she ran it on a cold, wet, and extremely windy October day in Felixstowe.

It was the 2020 Virtual London Marathon.

This was a marathon like no other! There weren't the crowds, the 40,000 other runners, or the bands which line the route, and no one played the signature 6

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

The Federation of Fairfield Infant and Colneis Junior in Felixstowe raised over a whopping £1600 for Children in Need!

The school’s Just Giving page can be visited here: https://www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/2020fairfield-colneis

Music & Dance for the NHS & to Spread a Little Happiness

SJ Summers Butchers Just ÂŁ20 Pictured clockwise, local singer, Jax, spreading cheer through her singing, while Sandra, a talented saxophonist shows her gratitude to the NHS and other service/ care providers. And Just Jay Dance puts on online dance workouts and workshops for everyone to get their groove on!

Lockdown Birthdays and even a Wedding!

1lb Bacon 1lb Stewing Beef 1lb Chicken Breast 1lb Pork Steaks 1lb Mince 1lb Sausages 1 Dozen Large Eggs

ÂŁ50 Feast

Joint of top side or rolled rib 2 1/2lbs leg or shoulder of pork 5lbs Mince 2lbs Chicken Breast 2lbs Stewing Beef 2lbs Bacon 1 Dozen Large Eggs

01394 282 408

111 High Road West Felixstowe, IP11 9AJ

Turners Plumbing & Heating

Boiler Service & Breakdowns - Power Flushes All Plumbing Work - Landlords Certificates Gas Central Heating - Bathroom - Small Jobs Welcomed

Contact us now on: 01394 613131 07720 498557 / 07860 717332 www.turnerscarpentryfelixstowe.com

Turners Carpentry & Joinery

Friends, family and neighbours help to celebrate a lockdown birthday with true Felixstowe spirit, while this gorgeous couple celebrate a unique lockdown wedding!

Specialists in all aspects of Carpentry & Joinery All types of windows and doors supplied/fitted Extensions/Alterations & loft conversions

Contact us on: 01394 613131 / 07720 498557 / 07860 717332

www.turnerscarpentryfelixstowe.com

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

7

Local Crafters and 3D Printers Make Visors, Masks & Thank-you Bags

The 3D printing community raise over ÂŁ6000 to print over 5000 PPE visors, while kniters, crocheters, dressmakers and crafters make thank-you bags, headbands, masks, scrubs, gifts and more!

A Song of Hope

Felixstowe Harmonies create a moving tribute online, to all affected by COVID-19, collectively writing the lyrics and composed by Musical Director, Chandra Grover.

7 Year Old DJ

Spreads Happiness

Amelie learns a new skill mixing records and DJing live for her growing fanbase!

The Felixstowe Book

Festival Went Virtual

Despite all odds the much-loved Felixstowe Book Festival was a roaring success!!!

8

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Felixstowe Helps to Celebrate Gradma’s 100th Birthday Tara Shows a Little Care Goes a Long Way When a family couldn’t visit their Grandma, Lenora Bailey’s grave to celebrate her 100th birthday, the Felixstowe community got together to help by laying flowers upon her grave for the beloved Grandmother of two.

Making Children’s Books Accessible

The Felixstowe Book Dragon provides a book lending service and “Wild Libraries” little sheltered areas around the town with a collection of books for people to take.

Fun Halloween Online Competition

Paul Caustom won with these awesome pumpkin carvings!

Together with Felixstowe Helping Hands, Tara volunteered time to help the vunerable and those isolated at home. A true local gem!

Sharing a Smile & Some Happiness with Strangers

Sometimes the simple things make the biggest effect. The lovely Catherine Bond, who simply sat in the Spa Gardens with her friendly canine pal, Morgan, to greet strangers and help spread a little happiness.

A smile truly is like a bunch of flowers and with this simple gesture, Catherine and Morgan added to Felixstowe’s shining sense of kindness, friendship and care!

There are so many more stories to share, so please download our app to read these stories in detail.

You can download The Felixstowe App from the App Store or Google Play Store. Or go to www.thefelixstoweapp.com/download.

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

9

MADE IN FELIXSTOWE

Neyyah - A New Online Game Felixstowe game developer, Aaron Gwynaire, tells us about his latest brainchild I’m currently developing a first person point-n-click adventure puzzle game called Neyyah. It is very much influenced by the original Myst and Riven games, and has been in development for just over two years. I design everything in the game, from concept and story through to all the graphics, sound and music elements too. Neyyah began its life while I was living in Western Australia, and continues to grow and develop nicely, right here in Trimley St. Mary, with at least another two years in development.

I started getting into game design when I was about fourteen, and continued learning a lot about 3D modelling throughout high school and college.

Starting with a basic 3D modelling program called Anim8or, I already had a background in working with clay and so I was able to get to grips with modelling in virtual space very quickly. I found 3D modelling to be such a fantastic way of 10

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

expressing creativity, but mainly with the focus of creating realistic looking fantasy worlds. I developed various game ideas throughout high school, then in 2011 I developed a concept called Portals: Journey to the Pearl Islands, which gave birth to the story of Neyyah.

2012 came along, and I moved to Australia, where I pursued more of a music career. But in 2018, I wanted to return to my game development roots. I took the concept of Portals and evolved it, and at first came up with a game idea called Beyond. I was going to develop Beyond using the tools I had been used to back when I started game development (Anim8or, Adventure Maker) but soon became very aware of the potential Blender 3D modelling software had to offer. It changed everything at that point.

The rendering looked so realistic, and I felt like I could create something that really met the visual bar of my biggest influence, Riven (Cyan 1997).

Neyyah was born, and I haven’t looked back since.

‘‘

I create all the graphics in Blender, using 3D modelling and rendering the art using an engine in Blender called Cycles. Neyyah uses pre-rendered graphics, so you won’t need a top of the range PC system to run this game, while the graphics remain very realistic as it uses a rendering technique called path-tracing.

Although the game uses a slideshow format (you click to move forward, left or right, look up or down, zoom in/out, etc) there are also full motion video sequences, showing the player moving through the environment in certain scenes, up and down ladders, through archways, opening doors and moving through to the areas beyond, etc. I incorporate these rendered images/animations into a game engine called Visionaire Studio 5. Adventure Maker had been the old engine I was used to, but support was lacking for the engine by the time I returned to it in 2018, so I was recommended the Visionaire Studio route.

It’s a fantastic tool for point-n-click game development, particularly for Broken Sword and Monkey Island games, but can be tweaked to be set in 1st person (Myst / Riven) style of perspective.

As a solo developer, it’s very important to have a clear goal and vision when developing a project on this scale; planning everything out, keeping track of the story, puzzles, etc. However, what’s really fun is when the game evolves more and more along the way, whether that be with story and narrative elements or even the game world itself. As well as the art side of development, I also compose and produce the music and sounds for Neyyah.

This will be the final phase of Neyyah’s development. This is a whole other world in the design process. I have delved into music and sound design before for Neyyah throughout development at certain stages, creating test builds, which are available to see as playthrough showcases on my Patreon page. The sounds really bring the graphics to life.

What I find interesting is how sound can also take that screen to screen or slideshow navigation from something static to something fluid and alive.

You feel more immersed inside the game.

Regarding music, it is a case of picking certain key areas of the environment where music can enhance the experience, enrich the atmosphere and bring out more of the narrative. I find some spots in the game world only need sound, while others need the music to give it that extra flavour.

I take a lot of influence from architecture that shouts volumes in terms of culture and story, and for Neyyah, it isn’t just a puzzle game.

Nothing is arbitrary. Everything links seamlessly together… the environment with the puzzles, the characters with the world… Everything exists for a reason, and it’s these kind of games which enable the player to feel really immersed in the world they’re in. Neyyah relies strongly on visual observation and logic, taking your time to explore and piece together the mysteries that surround you.

Currently, Neyyah is available to wishlist on Steam as well as support on Patreon, where there are some great rewards for patrons.

I currently work as a carer for Westminster Home Care, working in Felixstowe and Walton, while developing the game outside of work in all the spare time I have. It’s been a very rewarding journey, with a lot of hurdles and challenges faced a long the way. Overcoming these challenges has built the game stronger, and it’s great seeing how far it’s come along so far. I am very excited for the next couple of years ahead in its development.

To find out more check out these links: patreon.com/defyrealityentertainment Facebook: DefyRealityEntertainment Twitter: NeyyahGame The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

11

Bringing

Beauty to

Felixstowe Felixstowe’s unique pop-up gallery on Hamilton Road

The 142 Gallery on Hamilton Road began in February 2019 when Lisa Berry, Toby Mayhew and Drew Whitemore took on the site, at the junction with Gainsborough Road, vacated many months before by the Wine Boutique.

The three of us began by painting everything white, then exhibiting our own work whilst working in the space. Then we quickly got to know various artists with connections to Felixstowe, who made it clear to us that another focal point for art enthusiasts was eagerly welcomed. Since opening, the gallery has generally had a different artist, group project or event in it every week (except during the first lockdown).

12

As well as the original three, the gallery has been greatly helped by the supportive and mostly voluntary efforts of other artists, especially Victoria Petchey, Mikaela Rackham and Caroline Burgess. We like to say that 142 Gallery is essentially ‘run by artists for artists’, with the sentiment that we can achieve much more creatively and in terms of making connections with art enthusiasts generally, if we pool our efforts.

left mostly to the critics and the public. We encourage artists at 142 to engage with the public by being actively creative, sharing their processes in the space... generally to make their show more of an ‘event’ than a passive exhibition. At the same time, we are keen to create a venue with enough quality facilities to be able to make artworks look their best, and to draw in artists and visitors from beyond the local area.

We place more emphasis on the nurture and support of creative energy than on becoming ‘arbiters of art’, which might be

We welcome engagement and ideas from anyone interested in exploring creative possibilities through artwork. One way to

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

get involved is through our “Open Call” exhibitions. The next is in February on the theme of ”Wings”. Anyone is welcome to submit up to two pieces they have created.

142gallery.art is now a registered community interest company. Profits made are put back into the gallery’s efforts to help make every artist's week as inspiring as possible for artists and visitors alike. We’re confident that 142 can play a part in helping Felixstowe’s artistic community to thrive... and we have all enjoyed feeling welcomed into that community.

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

13

14

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Every Cloud Random ramblings by our local lad Boy what a year. But on reflection it’s something we could have either regretted like that impulse purchase of the book ‘Living a Tempestuous Life’ by Ann Widdecombe or those stilettos by the manufacturers of Crocs.

Or as so many people did, took it as a time to embrace the beautiful things in life we had taken for granted. Mercifully I believe it was time that allowed the human race to reflect and discover; something that’s ordinarily so scarce these days.

For instance once the first lockdown was relaxed a little my partner and I decided to explore the charming countryside we have surrounding us here in ‘The Stowe’ more. So many fellow residents were posting exquisite photographs of wild deer and pastures blanketed by flowers on social media and we wanted a taste of that. Therefore we decided to venture out as budding Sir Attenboroughs.

Donning our Plus 4s and Deerstalker hats we laced up the walking boots, clipped on the tin mugs by the carabiners and headed outdoors. This was the best thing we could have done. We discovered nearby areas of unparalleled beauty and tranquillity which we just never knew existed and best of all we had time to soak it up.

Wildlife spotting didn’t start so well, however, as we wasted 2 hours one day silently observing a mammal we couldn’t identify.

Hiding in the scrub and flicking through the pages of Chris Packham’s ‘Nature Activity Book for the under 12s’ (it was the only title we could have a next day delivery on) we failed to ascertain what this extraordinary beast was. We gathered if we waited long enough it would move to return to its lair or in search of sustenance and we would get a more advantageous view of it. It turned out that it was a discarded fur-lined moccasin

slipper laying under a blackthorn bush and was going nowhere.

We’ve done better since though.

Experiencing the joy of watching wild otters playing in rivers. Wondering at the beauty of Kingfishers darting from outcrops of trees and admiring majestic Buzzards above our heads riding on thermals.

This downtime didn’t just open our eyes to surrounding, natural beauty but also exposed hidden skills.

I for instance discovered those idle doodles I used to scribble out could be transferred to watercolour paintings. Having at last some spare time on my hands I could finally perfect my washes and the expression of detail. Learning to plaster wasn’t so successful, as we now have a portion of interior wall that resembles a Betty Crocker Fudge Brownie. Even then the upside to the latter resulted in a new-found and deep appreciation for professional plasterers.

I’m aware many people lost someone dear during this terrible period or personally fell foul of the unseen invader. My heart goes out to you.

But I truly and sincerely believe we as a race learned some precious lessons during this appalling period that we must never forget.

The humour (you’re the judges of whether or not that’s a fair definition) and flippancy I sprinkled amongst this piece is my way of dealing with life and to hopefully bring the merest smile to a face that hasn’t witnessed one for a while.

Enjoy life my friends, it’s onwards and upwards from here.

Local lad, Dean Wales The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

15

The BASIC Life Charity

SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY EVERY STE

Local charity providing needed aid and support The BASIC Life Charity have been meeting the needs of Felixstowe, Walton, Trimley and Kirton residents for over 20 years.

In addition to the two traditional charity shops, in Walton and Felixstowe town centre, the charity has emerged as one of the most dependable in times of crisis.

We have assisted innumerable local individuals and groups over the years and continue to do so through these difficult times.

During the pandemic lockdown BASIC were the only charity to keep its shops open (as emergency resource centres) and were the focal point for those in need of food and support. Requests for assistance were received 24 hours a day and the average response time throughout was less than 30 minutes.

OUR PARTNERS

16

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Among many innovative and new initiatives, the charity were the inventors of the much-acclaimed BASIC Community Pop-up Shops.

These break the traditional food bank rules and allow food collected from supermarkets and others to be redistributed without any kind of means test or referral.

The idea has caught the imagination of many senior figures including Bishops, M.P.’s and others. The charity has been involved in round table talks in Westminster to explain how the idea can be expanded further.

We now run four BASIC Community Pop-up shops per week in Felixstowe with an additional evening once a fortnight.

In more recent times we have moved into supporting the people of Ipswich with the same model. For a small, independent charity this is quite a project, but we now operate from six different locations in the town covering most places of extreme need.

EP OF THE WAY

This project has not affected the food supply to Felixstowe where a combination of the pop-ups and the shops provide unprecedented support for a community.

The prices of items in the shops have remained the same for over 20 years and we know that those suffering from hardships are able to purchase extremely good products on a regular basis with minimal cost.

Our aim is to continue to support the people of Felixstowe and the surrounding areas with new ideas and initiatives in the coming years.

At the same time, we shall develop into other towns and areas in a considered way while maintaining our roots as The Felixstowe Charity.

Graham Denny | Founder

You’re not just a drop in the ocean...

WHAT YOU DO MAKES A DIFFERENCE AND CREATES RIPPLES YOU MIGHT NOT SEE. #BETHECHANGE THE FELIXSTOWE MAGAZINE www.thefelixstowemagazine.com

The BASIC Life Charity Head Office: 27 Schneider Close, Felixstowe, IP11 3SS 01394 674810 - basiclife@live.co.uk basic.org.uk - FB: The BASIC Life Charity

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

17

Kim’s Online Blog Hits the Mag This lovely local lady gives us her spin on using creativity to tackle the ups and downs of life, and her gorgeous humour to handle mental health issues.

So, I’ve been asked to write an article for the special 2021 edition of The Felixstowe Magazine, wow, what an honour!

fall asleep and peace would return and my heart would burst with love and pride for them all over again.

Well, what can I say about 2020... it was certainly a year like no other wasn’t it?

Spending a vast majority of the year in lockdown wasn’t on anyone’s ‘to do’ lists in January.

2020 kicked off the series of lockdowns, but it wasn’t all doom and gloom. It was challenging for sure, but there were certainly plenty of things worth remembering.

In our house, we’re trying to plan for the year a head, filling in calendars and diaries with key dates through the year, working out when we were due to have all our kids together and thinking of things we might be able to do with them. The year was very different from what we had planned, but as a family we muddled through and made the best of things, like everyone else did.

For those of you who might not have read my blogs on The Felixstowe App (available on the App Store or Google Play Store), I have many creative outlets to help with with mental health issues. Anything from diamond painting, to baking and sewing.

In 2020, I dived into this creative world more than ever! Three of my lovely friends have welcomed their first babies into the world, who were all recipients of their own handmade blankets - Luna had a Harry Potter themed blanket which I was particularly proud of.

As such, there’s been lots of time to spend with my little “childerbeasts” - a new collective nickname for my little ones.

They grow up so quickly and often once they start school, it’s so hard to find that quality time with them. That’s not to say there weren’t many days I’d have happily sold them to a passing circus (although I think even they would have travelled back to return them!) but then they would 18

Kim

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

With all the creativity, I was approached to write my first article for The Felixstowe Magazine. I know this magazine really champions local people and has a passion to raise awareness for the great things the community do, so it was really lovely to be recognised and given the

Kim’s handmade children’s cushion covers

opportunity to share my stories and artwork (like diamond painting), which has helped me so much with mental health and sharing my stories with humour and a realistic view on life has been quite therapeutic actually. I must have done an ok job of that first article, because I was then asked if I’d ramble on at you guys on a regular basis... and so my blog was born! Sorry, you’re stuck with my ramblings now!

2020 was also the year I started taking my daughter, Miss Phoebe, to do the junior park run, and realised just how out of shape I am!!! I’ll have you know 2km is a long way, but obviously I had to let her beat me, just for her self confidence, honest! Mind you, I think most of the nation soon found out how out of shape we were when we started trying to followJoe Wicks simple online PE lessons!

Phew, they were full-on weren’t they?

2020 was definitely a year where we all came to realise community spirit does still exist. One lovely memory I have is my wonderful neighbours turning up in their family groups, socially distanced, outside

Kim’s wonderful “childerbeasts” with homemade winter warmers

my home on Miss Phoebe’s birthday to sing happy birthday to her. Her 5th birthday was spent recovering from pretty serious surgery on her head followed by months of her hair falling out, so she was particularly upset to then be in lockdown for her 6th birthday and once again unable to see her friends or have a party. She was pretty overwhelmed at the time but loves watching the video back. It really touched me that my neighbours did something so simple but so thoughtful for her.

Felixstowe’s wider community spirit also came into play with the forming of Helping Hands. I met a lovely gentleman further down my road through that initiative.

I would get his shopping when my husband, Nick, was home from work to gave me a break from the house and the childerbeasts. Across Felixstowe, people were matched up with those who needed help, which was incredible!

I was called upon again when Toby’s Nursery suddenly faced closure with just 2 weeks before the start of the September term. (Never had I realised how much my

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

19

Kim’s handmade mask extensions

sanity was holding onto this one date where both the kids would be able to return to school for the first time since March 2020, until the moment it looked like it wasn’t going to happen!). But Felixstowe rallied once more, parents were sharing petitions which had phenomenal success in less than 24 hours, local radio picking up the story and councillors getting involved, and thankfully the nursery was saved and both my little lovelies got to have their longawaited first day back at school! Bliss!

Obviously it was a much quieter year in the “Kim’s Cakes n Cookies” kitchen (my home bakery), with so many gettogethers, christenings and weddings having to be cancelled. But among the few orders that could go ahead, I was able to do one wedding cake for a lovely bride, and also make her wedding invitations.

And who could forget that it was the year I broke my bottom!!! I mean seriously...that really could only happen

Handmade blankets

Kim’s little one with handmade winter warmers

in a year like 2020 couldn’t it? And if you’re not sure what I’m talking about, pop onto the app, search my name and have a read of my first blog.

So, onwards to 2021, what do we hope or think it will bring? Well, I certainly hope it will bring a marked improvement and hopefully we never see another year like the last one.

I hope to be able to find lots of time for my various crafting pastimes this year. Who knows, maybe even more than I managed last year.

I sincerely hope it will include being able to get together with friends and family more. As I’ve said in the past, I like being in my little world and don’t always want to ‘people’ but wow, have I missed being able to if I’ve wanted to!

Whatever it brings, I wish health and happiness to one and all, and a hope that as life does eventually return to normal we don’t lose sight of the community spirit this period has seen flourish!

Kim xx Facebook: @KimsCakesnCookies

THINK BRIGHT ABOUT YOUR ADVERT from just £90 per year - info@thefelixstowemagazine.com

20

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Landguard Fort Photo by Katy Wright

Thanking visitors and volunteers for all their support The team at Landguard Fort is grateful for the opportunity to offer a space for all ages to enjoy fresh air, history and connect with their family or support bubble. We appreciate the visitors who were able to come and experience the fort during our short 2020 season.

Our dedicated team of volunteers quickly adapted to the Covid safety measures put in place to keep everyone safe. Our one-way system has actually improved visitors’ experience, which is the reason we do what we do! We are confident we have a safe environment for all to enjoy even our furry friends!

We are positively looking ahead to this year’s season and planning to open during the February half-term holiday. Initially, we will open at weekends between February and October, accepting advance tickets only. Our booking system www.landguard. com (powered by SeeTickets) is quick and easy to use and saves time checking in when you arrive.

As well as thanking our wonderful volunteers we would like to say special thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Felixstowe Town Council for their funding assistance this year, enabling us to cover the costs of the equipment and services needed to reopen our big green gates.

Join us this year. You will be amazed as you Discover, Explore and Enjoy! all that we have to offer at Landguard Fort, Felixstowe.

OUR SUPPORTERS

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

21

LOCAL POET

Penny Parker This local lass kept us entertained during these troubled times with her beautiful poetry.

Introducing, the lovely Penny Parker...

I’ve never really excelled at anything, I’m just your normal average person. I’m a single mum with two lovely grown up daughters. I have a part-time job and I volunteer mainly for guide dogs as a puppy raiser and fundraiser, but I’m happy to help anywhere that needs it really.

I’ve always loved to write though and mostly when I see or hear something that touches my heart or makes me laugh, my brain starts working out words that rhyme.

Sometimes my brain takes over and wants to rhyme way too much!

There is always a notepad by my chair or next to the bed. There’s even one in the car, because I’m never sure when I’m going to need to write. I’m a definite rhyme freak as far as poetry goes, I know it doesn’t have to but to me it’s not poetry if it doesn’t.

I always dreamt of writing a book of poems and sent many off to magazines.

I even wrote a series of stories about fire engines that were all in verse but after plenty of rejection letters I gave up and only wrote a few for friends or family.

Then because being a puppy raiser you go through such a torrent of emotions I began to write again, about the antics of puppies, about saying goodbye and so much more. I began posting them 22

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

on social media and they became so popular I had to set up a group to post them in, so that people could always find them. I suddenly started to get requests from guide dog owners and other puppy walkers who wanted poems about their dogs past and present. I got requests for poems about birthdays and about people who had passed on, to be read at funerals and I even wrote a best man’s speech for someone too!

More and more people asked if I would put them in a book that they could buy, and there was that dream again, but publishing was expensive and as I wanted the proceeds to go to guide dogs, it was proving difficult.

That’s when a friend said he could get it sorted out, designed and ready for press if I could get the funding. Thanks to two local firms “Goldstar” and “Prologic” I got the sponsorship and my first book went to print, quickly followed by book two.

What followed was a whirlwind of emotion, excitement to see my dream realised, sadness that my Dad wouldn’t see it and many hectic hours of packaging, labelling and posting. My books have travelled the world, the poems in them have been read in schools, youth groups and homes.

It’s an amazing feeling knowing that all those words running riot in my head are actually being read by so many.

Book three came out shortly after and all are based around dogs, obviously, and the sale of them has named three guide dogs so far, another massive achievement.

The recent pandemic of course meant the words again were spinning, trying to put smiles back on people’s faces but keep

the seriousness intact. Once again people enjoyed my poems and shared them all across social media.

Many asked for them in a book but with so many businesses struggling and people losing their jobs, now is not the best time to look for sponsorship to go to print, but

that won’t stop me writing (or typing these days). I’m not sure my brain will ever stop rhyming enough to let me stop even if I wanted to, which I don’t.

Penny Parker FB page: Through the Eyes of A Dog Book orders: Penny.parker@btinternet.com

Tissue warning for those with sensitive eyes!

My best friend.

He sees the world through old mans eyes, A fog that never clears, I try to move the obstacles, just watching brings the tears.

He walks with only tiny steps on legs that always shake.

I worry that he’ll miss the step and then a bone he’ll break.

The stairs take so much longer for him to reach the top, Each tread is a new challenge, but you can’t tell him to stop.

He likes to take his daily walks but we have to go his way, It takes us ever longer, he gets slower every day.

I’m not sure if he hears me as he wanders off the track, But he always smells the biscuit so he’ll keep on coming back.

He likes to sleep beside me somewhere near my feet, He’d like to sit right near me but he can’t get on the seat.

He still knows when it’s six o’clock for breakfast or his tea, He knows when family’s coming and he’ll hurry out to see.

He likes to gently paddle or sleep out in the sun He likes to take a slower pace, he doesn’t like to run.

One day I know he’ll tell me that he’s heard the angels call The rainbow bridge is ready but he’ll hate to leave us all.

But until then we’ll just enjoy each day and what it brings Spend our lives together and do our favourite things.

I know he’s getting older but he’s not giving up, He’ll always be my best friend, to me he’s still a pup.

Copyright 2017 Penny Parker

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

23

The Big Food Blog For our 2021 edition, our Big Food Blogger is the brilliant Lisa Williams from Stennetts Community Cafe

Chocolate

Cupcakes or Cake

Ingredients 3 cups of self-raising flour 2 cups of sugar ½ a cup of cocoa 2 teaspoons bicarbonate of soda 1 tea spoon salt 2 teaspoons vinegar 2 teaspoons vanilla (optional) 2/3 cup oil 2 cups water Method

This is my go-to chocolate cake mix as it’s quick and easy and tastes really good, this is also a vegan recipe as there are no eggs or dairy used in it.

The vinegar is the secret ingredient but don’t worry - you won’t taste it.

This recipe makes approximately 36 cupcakes, 2 good size tray bakes or 2 round tins.

24

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Put all ingredients into a bowl. Beat on low speed to combine. Beat it on high speed for a couple of minutes until lump free and glossy. Pour the mixture in either your cupcake casings or your cake tins. Cook on 160-180 degrees for approximately 15 minutes for cupcakes or 20+ minutes if you opt to make a cake.

Top Tip: use a large ice cream scoop to put mixture into cupcake cases.

Chocolate Butter Cream There’s no chocolate cake or cupcakes without chocolate butter cream!

Use real butter if you can.

Ingredients 4oz or 125g salted butter (if using butter soften it gently) 8oz or 250g icing sugar 2 tablespoons of cocoa 1-2 tablespoons hot water

Policeman’s Boiled Fruit Cake

Method Put softened butter and half of the icing sugar into bowl with 1 tablespoon of hot water. Beat on low until combined. Then add all of cocoa and rest of the icing sugar. Beat on low until combined. Add more hot water if needed. Beat while adding the hot water a little at a time until light and fluffy.

Top Tip: dip your knife in hot water to spread butter cream.

Ingredients 12oz or 350g mixed fruit 4oz or 100g sugar 4oz or 100g butter/marg ¼ pt water 1 egg 8oz or 225g self-raising flour 1 teaspoon mixed spice Method Put fruit, sugar, butter/marg and water in a pan, simmer slowly for 20 minutes or until puffed up. Allow to cool. Then add egg, spice and flour. Turn into a 6 or 7 in greased tin. Bake for 1½ hours at 150-160 degrees.

This was named Policeman’s Boiled Fruit Cake by my mum and was one of her favourite recipes We had a friend who was a policeman and so we used to go over and help with the barbeque at Martlesham Police Headquarters on family day. They held a produce competition and we used to enter. One year they gave this boiled fruit cake recipe and mum came first! After that it was always known as Policeman’s boiled fruit cake. It’s easy to make and keeps well in a tin for several days

Pastry Ingredients

250g butter and 250g lard 500g self raising flour 500g plain flour Method Rub in the fat and flour, (a rubbing action between you thumb and fingers). When it looks like breadcrumbs and there are no lumps, add 250ml water mix gently, do not over mix. Leave to absorb the water and rest.

Top Tip: this may seem a lot of water but trust me it’s the perfect amount to make an easy to work with pastry The Big Food Blog The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

25

Book Review

A book review of Playing Nice by JP Delaney

What if a stranger came to your home and told you that your child wasn’t really yours?

That he was switched at birth with the stranger’s son? In the book “Playing Nice”

by JP Delaney, this is exactly what happens.

When stay-at-home dad Pete Riley opens the door of his small house in London one ordinary morning, he thinks the gentleman ringing the bell is looking to buy or possibly sell something. He has no idea that after this encounter, his life and that of his family will never be ordinary again.

“Playing Nice,” published in 2020, leads readers through a myriad of emotions, from sadness and fear to anger and disbelief.

The characters they think are charming and perfectly normal may actually be the ones who are the most evil. And those telling Pete not to worry, that everything can be worked out, may be the most conniving of all.

Who knows what really goes on in people’s minds, or for that matter, behind closed doors? Many have secrets, and keeping these secrets from getting out may be worth killing for. But could these everyday, welleducated parents really go to that extreme?

Why yes, because at least one is what psychiatrists would label a psychopath.

While Pete and his partner Maddie try to deal with the nightmare of possibly losing their 2-year-old child Ben, they also face the unimaginable consequence of not being able to raise their own birth child. The situation may force this once 26

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

ordinary couple to do things they never imagined. And it may make the other couple do even worse.

Also, can evil genes be inherited? Ben, even as a toddler, has shown himself to exhibit some of his “real” father’s less-than-admirable traits. If they do manage to hold onto Ben, how can they prevent him from following in his father’s footsteps?

Readers will be taken on a wild ride as the two couples battle to keep not only what’s rightly theirs, but also what isn’t.

Who will win, and who will lose, possibly even paying with their own life?

JP Delany is a pseudonym for an author who has written under many different names. His New York Times bestsellers include “The Girl Before,” “Believe Me,” and “The Perfect Wife.” To find out more about him and his books, go to: www.jpdelaney.co.uk/.

Written by Susan Baldani author of articles about small town life, décor, books and food for various magazines across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. suebaldani@yahoo.com www.mywritingwall.com Twitter @mywritingwall

We are all born free. We all have our own thoughts and ideas.

We should all be treated in the same way.

Youth

LEARN HUMAN RIGHTS THE FUTURE DEPENDS ON IT ™

for Human Rights International

For more information about free audiovisual products and publications you can use to make human rights a reality in your community visit YouthforHumanRights.org

© 2009 Youth for Human Rights International. All Rights Reserved. The Youth for Human Rights International logo is owned by Youth for Human Rights International and is used with its permission. Item #C6233-ENG.

C6233 YHRI PSA Teacher Posters.indd 1

5/14/09 6:48:09 PM

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

27

Joan’s Walk in Allenby Park 102 laps by her 102nd birthday, Joan was an inspiration during the first lockdown of 2020.

Here’s Joan’s story...

There is a new tree in Allenby Park, with a plaque: ‘Planted by Felixstowe Town Council in honour of retired nurse, Joan Rich. On her 102nd birthday Joan completed her mission of walking 102 laps of this park to raise funds for the NHS during the 2020 coronavirus pandemic.’

On display in Joan’s house are certificates from Felixstowe Town Council, the Royal British Legion, Felixstowe Branch, and a wall plaque awarded by the Royal Military Police, congratulating Joan.

Joan, who worked at Felixstowe General Hospital, started her walk for NHS Charities on 22nd April 2020, the day Allenby Park gates re-opened. When she saw the ‘LOVE NHS’ motif in the grass, Joan wanted to help. The only way was to follow Captain Tom’s lead. Her daughter, Diane, set up a JustGiving page announcing Joan’s aim 28

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

to complete 102 x 560 metre circuits of Allenby Park, before her 102nd birthday in September, walking over 35 miles(56km).

The target was a modest £1020.

To start with, national lockdown meant that the park was empty. Joan often thought of her twins playing there. She was moved by children supporting her. Saffron Rose(8) did a sponsored silence. Lily(8), Sam(6), and Jane(5), sponsored by their grandfather, completed weekly challenges - obstacle courses, trampolining, cycling, running, scooting 10k or 5k distances. Louis(10), gave Joan a painting, Starry Night, the product of an on-line lockdown art class. The blues in the sky go with Joan’s kitchen and the moon-yellow matches the handle on her favourite cup. The painting means more to Joan than Van Gogh’s original ever could.

When Joan walked on the anniversary of the founding of the NHS, she said, ‘I’m 30 years older than the NHS and I want to make sure it lasts longer than me!’ She remembered her nursing duties, in the 196070s, and walking in Allenby Park to retrieve patients who had absconded there. Once more she walked the park to do her bit!

Sarah Ann Gray, of Bumba Fitness, ran a special online Zumba Class to raise money for Joan’s cause.

On the 75th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day Joan decorated her walker with bunting made

by Millie(13). Cassandra Aitchison surprised Joan with park-bunting and KEEP GOING JOAN! posters, designed by Colouring Heroes and coloured in by local children. The Candy Girls made a special VE Day dedication and tribute to Joan on their Facebook site and in lockdown conditions, recorded A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square.

Joan remembers VE and VJ Day in 1945, having served in the Women’s Army Corps in Nottingham, then the Military Police in the Middle East, where she helped rehabilitate POWs returning from camps in Japan, only to find some were Suffolk friends from her Ipswich Bicycle Club days.

Television and news interest gathered momentum. BBC Look East showed a message from Captain Tom Moore: ‘Sending very best wishes to you and one piece of advice - tomorrow is another good day.’

National newspapers followed Joan’s progress, and the East Anglian Daily Times had regular features. Local social media platforms with The Felixstowe App, The Felixstowe Magazine, Felixstowe Nub News and Felixstowe Live supported too, as well as othe local magazines. Residents, neighbours, friends, local shops, especially The Works and Morrisons gave encouragement. Mayor, Mark Jepson, walked with Joan ten times, and was very supportive, as was Councillor Darren Aitchison.

BBC Radio Suffolk, Three Counties Radio, and BBC 5 Live told Joan’s story. It regularly featured on Rob Dunger‘s Felixstowe Radio show. Rob even brought his own 102-year-

old mother, Wynnie, to join Joan on her 75th circuit. Joan couldn’t believe anyone was interested. ‘I’m just an ordinary person,’ she said, ‘doing an ordinary thing: walking.’

Many others walked with Joan, including local children, artists, authors, former NHS staff, WRAC members, neighbours, friends, and on special occasions Royal Military Police from Goojerat Barracks, Colchester.

Nothing could have been better than Joan’s final lap, which she walked on her 102nd birthday in two parts; morning through the secluded tree path; afternoon the main park circle where she was greeted by a Guard of Honour from the Royal Military Police, and RMPA. Local children, some in NHS uniforms, cheered and waved flags. Mayor, Mark Jepson, with Councillor Darren Aitchison managed the media frenzy. As Joan neared the last few metres, trumpeter, Kevin Woollard, from Suffolk’s orchestra, Trianon, played Happy Birthday as a very fitting last post.

Asked by journalists, ‘What next?’ Joan said, ‘Thank you all for your kindness and donations. Home for a cup of tea, please!’

TOTAL RAISED: ALMOST £35,000 What next?

The book, Myth and Mischief in Allenby Park by Lesley Glaister et al. is dedicated to Joan. The short stories are set in Allenby Park. The book is stocked by Stillwater Books and profits go to the Suffolk Wildlife Trust.

Photos by Sean Saye The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

29

LOCAL OPERA SINGER

Christina Johnston Photographer: Arthur Koff

Who would have known that Felixstowe is home to such a prolific opera singer!

Despite having sung all over the world, this year was meant to be the busiest yet. I moved back home to Suffolk last year in the hope of making my name on home turf.

‘‘

I am a Coloratura Soprano and have been a soloist in Opera houses across Europe, Asia and South America since graduating from The Young Artists Programme in Prague in 2013.

I have had the pleasure of singing all over the world as ‘Queen of the Night’ from Mozart’s Magic Flute, ‘Olympia’ in Offenbach’s The Tales of Hoffmann, ‘Adele’ in Strauss’s Die Fledermaus, performing with Prague Shakespeare Company to performing for Presidents and Heads of State.

A most memorable event was when the Chinese President flew me to China to sing for the end of World War II celebrations. It was something I will never forget.

In 2018 I was nominated for a ‘Classical Brit award under 30 poll’ for my ‘Blessing’ album with The City of Prague Philharmonic which was incredible.

30

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

I had been asked by tenor, Jose Carreras (The Three Tenors), to sing alongside him for his Farewell London Tour with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, something I was incredibly excited to do!

My voice features on the new ‘Wonder Woman 1984’ film

However, despite all the production, the global pandemic stopped everything in a matter of days. All my work for the coming year, like many musicians, had gone. It was a very scary moment seeing all my work just disappear in an instant and not knowing when, if at all, it would come back!

I began thinking what on earth could I do to keep music alive and to keep singing, so

I volunteered in March to go around nursing homes to sing to the lonely residents who hadn’t seen their families in a while. It was wonderful to feel like I was helping somehow.

‘‘

My husband, Slava, who is also my manager, sat down with me to discuss what we could do to keep going. Something I have trained my whole life for surely couldn’t just be over because there were no stages to sing on?

We decided to create our own “stage.”

and go through the story and plot and sing all the different characters. From West Side Story, Les Miserables, Wicked, Frozen, Rocketman, The Sound of Music, Phantom of the Opera to name but a few!

We have a studio in our garden that we had planned eventually to turn into a recording studio. We decided we could do online concerts from home each week, create themes, even do whole musicals to entertain people in lockdown.

My husband wanted to learn so began weeks of research into streaming and the equipment we would need for this all to be possible.

He learned how to use the programmes for streaming and live video production. We researched the audio and other equipment we would need to make this possible and we began testing it all out. We had some help from wonderful friends, like Andrew Rayner in Felixstowe who came over to teach Slava and I how to use the equipment. It was trial and error but we wanted it to look as professional as possible so that people would feel they were watching a real live and fully interactive concert.

Unlike other artists who charge for online tickets, we decided to make them completely free and available to watch but if people would like to donate a ‘virtual’ ticket towards our work and the concerts, they can. As we have had no government help at all it is something that is keeping us going financially.

I have learnt so much about audio, recording and streaming over the past few months. It certainly has been a learning curve and one that has kept us both very busy each week.

We go live every Friday and each week have a different theme and often ask the audience to request what they would like to hear. Musicals have been very popular; I have done a different musical each week

We have now done more than 23 concerts!

I have learnt so much new repertoire and really enjoyed interacting with the audience each week!

I have also had the help of wonderful dress maker Clothing by Jinnie (based in Halesworth) and Lucy Quinn (Framlingham).

She made me the most beautiful replica of the dress from ‘My Fair Lady’ and then made me a special ‘Christmas dress’ too for my Christmas concert!

The audience is growing each week and I have discovered a new-found confidence in speaking.

As an artist it is wonderful to have feedback from the audience as I sing as without any clapping it’s hard to know if you have done a good job. But thanks to comments people can comment throughout the concert and interact with me. It is lovely to know that bringing people some online entertainment has helped a lot with mental health. Music is vital and I am really enjoying making a difference, however small.

It is something we would like to carry on with, perhaps doing them once a month instead of every week once we get back to a bit more normality and I can go back to being on a stage in the theatre again!

If you would like to follow my concerts each week the links are below: Facebook: thechristinajohnston Youtube: thechristinajohnston Instagram: christinajohnstonofficial If you would like to donate a virtual ticket: https://gf.me/u/yfpcz4 The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

31

LOCAL ARTIST

Ashley Peck Honouring unsung heroes through his passion for painting I have been painting aircraft for 4 years now, focusing mainly on the Second World War era and very early on I realised that there were a number of different aircraft that are rarely seen on canvas. These aircraft are regularly considered less than successful when compared to their more famous counterparts and often with few or no surviving examples, it seemed that they were slipping into obscurity. I always felt that this would be a shame as the bravery of the crews was at least on par with those who flew the more famous aircraft types of the era.

Over the past year I decided to try and create a small series of paintings depicting the lesser celebrated Royal Air Force aircraft of the Second World War to act as my own small tribute to the crews who flew and maintained them.

The first subject that I chose to tackle was the Avro Manchester. Taking flight for the 32

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Boulton Paul Defiant Mk.I N3437

first time in July 1939, the Manchester was a medium bomber that would be plagued by problems with its unreliable Rolls-Royce Vulture engines. Entering service late in 1940, the type would last only 16 months before being withdrawn. The 193 operational Manchesters flew 1,269 sorties with Bomber Command, dropping 1,826Â tons of bombs with 123 of the aircraft lost.

Avro would go on to develop a four engined variant of the Manchester, dropping the Vulture engine in favour of the Rolls Royce Merlin. This aircraft would become the venerable Lancaster of which 7377 would be built so although the Manchester itself was unsuccessful, without the aircraft that it lead to, the RAF would have looked very different in the later stages of the war.

Following on from the Manchester, my next painting was to feature the Boulton Paul Defiant. An often forgotten aircraft from the Battle of Britain. Fighting alongside the celebrated Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane, the Defiant appeared ungainly, slow and vulnerable. Unlike the other fighter aircraft of the period, Defiants had no forward firing weapons instead being equipped with a turret mounted

Boulton Paul Defiant Mk.I N3437

Fairey Battle Mk.I K9271

behind the pilot. The unusual armament arrangement initially caught the Luftwaffe unawares and on its best day, 29 May 1940, 264 Squadron claimed 37 victories in two sorties whilst flying the Defiant. However, the enemy quickly realised that the aircrafts turret could not fire forward leaving the crews open to head-on attacks. Losses quickly mounted and the Defiant would be moved to night fighter duties where it could focus on intercepting bomber aircraft, a role at which it was much better suited, shooting down more enemies than any other contemporary during the blitz.

The Battle’s deficiencies were highlighted by the ever-accelerating pace of aircraft development during this period and by the outbreak of war, it was already obsolete but would be forced to continue in front line service due to a lack of suitable replacement. Squadrons flying the Battle would often suffer loses of greater than 50%, which no doubt helped to earn it the unfortunate nickname, ‘the flying coffin’.

‘‘

The Boulton Paul Defiant is an excellent example of the experimental aircraft developments of this era. It would have been impossible to know what would be required of aircraft in the next war, and nearly everything was tested with varying degrees of success. The aircrafts operational success was limited and they have gone down in history as a very unique design, but a concept which was proven to be effective, when used correctly.

The next aircraft on my list was the Fairey Battle. A light bomber I had heard of, but knew very little about. As with my previous two paintings in this series, the Battle was a pre-war design. It initially appeared very promising and when introduced in 1937, it was capable of carrying twice the bombload over twice the distance of the bombers it replaced. Its early promise could largely be attributed to the fact that it was the first aircraft to enter service using the Rolls-Royce Merlin, an engine that would truly change the course of the war in Europe.

While I was painting this particular picture, I would spend a great deal of time trying to imagine how the crews felt fighting in an aircraft with such an awful reputation and combat record, knowing there was a very real chance that they would not return.

The Fairey Battle would earn one particular distinction when on 27th September 1939, K9271 of 103 Squadron would score the first official victory for the RAF against the Luftwaffe shooting down a Messerschmitt 109 over the Ardennes region of France.

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

33

Westland Whirlwind Mk.I P6984

‘‘

The fourth and final aircraft featured in this series was the Westland Whirlwind.

When it first flew in 1938, the Whirlwind was one of the fastest combat aircraft in the world and with four 20mm cannon in its nose, also one of the most heavily armed.

During the Battle of Britain, a drawback of the RAFs main fighter types was a lack of reliable heavy armament with the Spitfire, Hurricane and Defiant all being equipped with the smaller .303 inch weapons. The Whirlwind was designed to pack a bigger punch and fulfilled this role well. However, it was an aircraft developed around an engine that proved a little unreliable and eventually, unavailable when Rolls-Royce decided to focus on development and production of the more powerful Merlin instead.

Shortly after the battle of Britain, Spitfires would go on to finally be equipped with 34

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

reliable 20mm cannons therefore negating any advantage the Whirlwinds may have had. This, coupled with the lack of development of its engines, meant that the aircraft would enjoy only a very brief career flying with just 2 RAF squadrons before the last aircraft was retired in 1943.

The final airworthy example would be scrapped in 1947 and none survive today.

The Whirlwind really is a forgotten aircraft of the Battle of Britain era and as such, I felt it was more than deserving of a place in this series of paintings.

All of these aircraft (and many more) may have had their failings but it’s easy to forget that this was an age when an aircraft could be the fastest machine on the planet one day, and completely obsolete a few months later, such was the pace of technological development at the time. I thoroughly enjoyed finding out a little more about these aircraft and I hope that my paintings will serve as a small tribute to everybody who was associated with them.

The original paintings are available to purchase from: www.aviationpaintings.co.uk.

30% of any sales of these 4 pictures will be donated to the Royal British Legion.

FEATURING MJ SOUL

Love Will Find a Way Love is finding a way for Felixstowe’s singer songwriter, Mike Sorhaindo, following the recent release of a new single Mike moved to Felixstowe some 30 years after meeting his wife who is originally from Felixstowe. You might recognise his face as he managed Tesco on Hamilton Road for a few years.

The new single Love Will Find A Way, is by UK music artist HD (Benjamin Race), with lyrics and vocals by Mike, released by Ashwood Records label, and is available for download on iTunes and Spotify.

The jazzy and soulful track is proving popular with UK DJ’s and is racing up the UK Soul Network Charts being played on Jazz FM, BBC Radio London and numerous other UK and worldwide Soul stations.

Mike has played in many venues for private and corporate events, and has graced many a stage including the popular Ipswich Music Day Festival with his main band.

Since the pandemic hit, Mike entertained his fans live on Facebook with his unique blend of Soul, Funk and Reggae, and with well over 80,000 views from all over the globe he has even

tailored his backdrops with exotic locations such as New York Central Square, Dominican Waterfalls, Sandy Beaches and other destinations, to transport his audience.

“The warmth and gratitude that I have received during my online performances has strengthened my belief that music is a healer and can warm the very soul of the listener.

I guess this is the main reason we do it as musicians and entertainers, like Josh Locke and Shane Baxindale who are both local entertainers who have done similar things.”

MJ Soul has also been working and writing music with other musicians from an Ipswich based Project called The LIPSWICH Project. The Project brings together Ipswich musicians, artists and creatives to share essential mental health information and experiences through music and film, to benefit the wider community. https:// www.facebook.com/The-LipswichProject-1332482836908176 Find out more about MJ Soul: www.mjsoul.co.uk www.facebook.com/mjsoulsinger mjsoul@sky.com The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

35

Litter-Free Felixstowe An update from Felixstowe’s team of litter pickers Litter-Free Felixstowe (LFF) was formed in 2018 following David Attenborough’s inspirational Blue Planet series which highlighted the impact of plastic waste in the ocean. At that time, no one expected the small community group would grow in size to over 900 members who are committed to ensure that Felixstowe remains as litter-free as possible. This involves everywhere from the beach and town centre to parks and woodlands.

Activity stepped up throughout the challenges of 2020. Volunteers have been encouraged to collect equipment previously reserved for group activities which they will keep for the duration of the Covid-19 crisis to avoid any spread of the virus. Although working separately, by posting pictures to the LFF Facebook page people feel like they are acting together as a community. Throughout the past year, a number of ‘events’ over long weekends took place with hundreds of people, following government guidelines, 36

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

joined in to remove litter from local areas from the Ferry to Languard, the beach to the town centre, Old Felixstowe to Trimley.

It has been particularly encouraging to see the increasing number of children getting involved all wearing caps, hi-vis jackets and t-shirts displaying the LFF logo. Masks and other items of PPE have increased the litter challenge but as a result of the action by volunteers, Felixstowe has not seen the levels witnessed in other coastal areas and beauty spots across the UK. The group’s efforts have certainly not been confined to litter-picking. Members have been speaking to local restaurants and businesses to reduce plastic waste.

Education is key to spreading the message with a specially commissioned Litter-Free Felixstowe video involving young people being filmed. It is hoped that local children speaking about the environment will inspire others to get involved. In addition, two books aimed at 3-8 year olds have also been published to support the campaign and empower children to make a difference. The books: ‘Just One Child’ and ‘Just One World’ feature images of Felixstowe have been sold across the UK and in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, Canada and USA, India, Spain, Switzerland and Greece. Both are available

S.

“L

Plumbing And Maintenance No Job Too Small Mobile: 07572 023813 Phone: 01394 271480

JMWarnePlumbing@gmail.com

• Lo • Do •A

Jordan Warne 23 Highfield Road Felixstowe Suffolk IP11 7BZ

Co

Sco

COOKS WASTE KARE LTD Photo by Gillian Atacocugu

at Stillwater Books in Hamilton Road and through Amazon.

Over the summer months, Litter-Free Felixstowe launched a poster competition to encourage people to avoid littering.

The judges, local artist Bryony Graham, Mayor Mark Jepson and BBC Radio Suffolk’s Mark Murphy all commented on the high standard of entries including people from 8 years to 88 years. The winning posters together with Litter-Free stickers have been distributed to shops and businesses across the town in order to raise awareness. An exhibition of all entries was organised at Hamilton MAS on Bent Hill and children were given certificates to recognise their contribution. In another competition organised by Litter-Free Felixstowe in conjunction with Families Suffolk Magazine, Lauren Robinson aged 8, a pupil of Colneis school won a trophy for her contribution to inspiring others to get involved in litter-picking.

Together, it seems that the local community and visitors are united in keeping Felixstowe as litter-free as possible.

The group now has ambitious plans to get huge educational boards erected in strategic areas across the town and sponsor annual awards to encourage young environmentalists.

MINI - MIDI LARGE SKIPS

01473 715546/47 MAINTENANCE THINK & GARDENING

BRIGHT ABOUT YOUR ADSOver 10 years experience

• Rubbish removal etc.

• Grass cutting & hedges etc.

• Fence painting • Any other jobs considered • All painting & decorating • No job too big or too small

Te ww

Telephone Mick on 07931 859153

FROM JUST £90P/YR, CALL 07929 979073

RussellYOUR Taylor BUILD Felixstowe Professional AUDIENCE Painting & Decorating Service Over 25 Years Experience - Both Interior & Exterior For a Free Quote Please Ring:

Promote your business with us 01394 549029 • 07919 831764 info@thefelixstowemagazine.com 26 Leopold Road, Felixstowe IP11 7NP

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

37

Health & Fitness with Superhero Fitness Here’s Liam to help keep us in shape, mentally and physically What a year 2020 was!

I bet none of you could have predicted what we have endured with this pandemic.

With so many losing jobs, the inability to travel, share a hug with loved ones, going through life experiences differently to what we hoped, losing loved ones and friends, businesses having to close and our health being affected, it has been a difficult one to live with.

of course this has effected me also and having a baby this year has been amazing, but also caused its own types of challenges and anxiety during these times.

I am telling you now that it is perfectly okay and normal to feel like you are struggling as we will not always be on top of our game. I have difficult times with regards to motivation with my health and fitness sometimes like the rest of us. We are not all always going to be smashing life and meeting our own expectations.

‘‘

The impact it has had on our emotional health, physical health, mental health and well being is not to be underestimated. All of us are affected in different ways and some of us will find it more difficult to overcome certain situations than others, so we need to support each other and be understanding of what people may be going through.

As a business owner myself and personal trainer, I am a figure that people tend to look towards for motivation and help within the health and fitness area within their lives. My passion is to use my coaching skills to help people achieve their goals, train smarter and be more effective which I love doing. Seeing people progress and learn from what I have taught them by using various training methods is what I do, but I am also here to support clients and members.

Now, obviously last year was a difficult year for business owners and as a human being, 38

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

However, how do you manage yourself?

We as humans should always be prepared as best we can for what life throws at us.

When life throws a curveball at us, then how ready are we to deal with it?

Yes, a global pandemic may be a bit extreme but all we can do as people is manage the best we can.

So, what condition is your health in?

Excuses are easily found (and used), but can we start from a better starting point?

Can you or do you want to be in better condition?

Of course you do! Silly question really. To achieve a goal, it needs to be SMART: Specific Measurable Achievable Realistic Time based I am only going to mention Realistic because if I had to choose one of the above, then I would choose Realistic as the most common pitfall for many. Far too many of us are too hard on ourselves.

We set ourselves goals based on what we see in other people or what we think other people may be impressed with. But when it comes down to working at it, is doesn’t work for us. That is the problem with so many online fitness programmes now as it is general one-size-fits-all.

But what is realistic for you?

It could be very small to a very ambitious goal but if you need to set your

expectations lower to achieve something or take a step towards something then there is nothing wrong with doing that.

I like working with people and seeing them create good, positive habits. Good positive habits are what makes us achieve long- term success.

Are you constantly changing the things you do? Changing diets from week to week?

Looking for the best exercises to get you stronger faster or ripped?

My challenge for you is to start thinking of creating some good habits within your daily or weekly routine.

Each day or week is a step towards being healthier. Try and become healthier and fitter than you were the week before.

I am not going to suggest to you what habits you should do because all of us are different and have different commitments and circumstances. So start thinking what positive changes you can start making The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

39

within your life that help make you healthier and that you can sustain on a regular basis within your life.

What makes you happy? Do something that makes you happy on a daily basis.

Do you eat enough healthy foods?

Maybe commit to eating 10 portions of fruit and veg per day.

How well do you sleep?

Go to bed 9 hours before you intend to wake up on a couple of nights per week.

Be realistic.

Here are some regular goals I have within my life as I want to live my life a certain way and optimise my living.

DAILY • Drink a pint of water once I wake up • Green tea in the morning • Consume daily dose and fish oils if diet doesn’t reach its optimal amounts • Read or listen to a Bible verse • Foam roll to stretch my back, glutes and shoulders • Read affirmations before bed • Cold shower before I warm it up 40

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

WEEKLY • 70,000 steps • 2 x Strength workouts • 2-3 x Cardio workouts I am not saying you need to do these or similar things but these are habits that I like to incorporate that I KNOW are easily achievable for me and what I want and need to do.

If I don’t do them all on a daily basis, I am not going to lose sleep or cry about it. The foundations are in place and I get on with life the next day. In regards to exercise, I have the flexibility to make up a session if I miss it during the week.

Having that flexibility makes it even more realistic for me and I have a weekly accountability group within our gym members so we stay consistent. If you need to change habits or goals as time goes by, then alter them along your journey.

Having good habits will help you cope and manage life better. And after this last year, it is best to be prepared.

I wish you all the best this year.

Liam Hunn, Superhero Fitness 07825581958 www.superhero-fitness.co.uk Facebook: SuperFHIIT

New Art Project A new public art programme launching in Felixstowe this year.

Local art agency, Pier Projects, are excited to share news of a new public art programme that they will be launching in Felixstowe this year. Now in their fourth year, they have confirmed funding to work with communities on a programme of new artworks, events and a programme with young people until 2022.

As part of the programme, two artists will be commissioned to create new works that respond to the town. Pier Projects will be seeking to form a Community Panel, made up of local residents that will be brought together to select one of the artists.

These plans build on three previous projects that took place on the promenade, at Landguard Fort, Level Two Youth Project and on Felixstowe’s high street with artists Caroline Wright, Anna Brownsted and Adam Bridgland. A wooden sculpture ‘Upon Every Wave our Wellbeing Rides’

by Adam Bridgland, remains visible in Old Felixstowe in front of the Martello Tower and the golf course.

Natalie Pace and Louise Stratford of Pier Projects said, “2020 has been hugely challenging, impacting us all mentally, physically, socially and financially. Art can have a huge role to play in helping us all process what is happening to us and around us. We want to support people’s wellbeing by offering opportunities to be involved and shape these artistic projects, forging connections between people that have been limited, develop creativity whilst also supporting tourism to the town.”

In the meantime, they are re-launching two initiatives to help keep conversations and inspiration going and want you to take part: • ‘Slow Socials’ events which aim to bring together creatives in the town and beyond (online initially) • Artist Support Sessions, which are free online mentoring or feedback sessions.

Topics may include portfolio review, next steps, scoping new opportunities, writing applications to galleries or funders.

More information will be shared at an ‘Open Hut Weekend’ at a seafront beach hut to discuss the plans, subject to social distancing measures.

This work has been supported by Arts Council England, the Artists Information Company (A-N) and Suffolk County Council through Enabling Communities Fund.

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

41

The World of the Winter Bee Janice and Phil have been beekeepers for over 25 years.

Coming from Essex where they inherited 12 hives from an old German neighbour, here’s their story of beekeeping and the start of local organic beeswax products.

It was just over 25 years ago when our neighbour came knocking at the door one Sunday lunchtime, tears in his eyes as he said, “Phil, I’ve had the worst morning of my entire life.” Considering he had been through the war I was concerned about what had transpired.

He said, “I’ve been up with the bees all morning and I’ve had to tell them I can’t look after them anymore.”

“Oh dear what’s going to happen to them?” I asked.

He looked me in the eye and replied, “I’ve told them you’re the new beekeepers.”

“I don’t think so, Franz!” I replied.

He turned and marched down the path, looked over his should and said, “Once they have been told who their new keeper is, I can’t go back on my word.”

42

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

So here we are over 25 years later with hives kept in North Felixstowe. Having saved so much beeswax, we thought we would start a little business producing candles. We now have 12 different varieties in 3 sizes, everything from face and body moisturiser, two different lip balms, wood polish, leather balm and firestarters.

Here’s a few interesting things you may not have known. I get asked a lot at this time of year, “How are the bees?” or “What are the bees doing now?” So I thought I’d give you some insight into the world of the winter bee.

Long story short they go into a light sleep state called torpor which helps them conserve energy. Essentially, they’re not keen on the cold and when it gets too cold they’re not able to fly, so they huddle

together in their hive and keep their home and each other warm.

The queen bee reduces, and may stop laying eggs. Any that she lays are few to ensure there’s new life entering the hive.

The worker bees who normally live for 6 weeks in the summer will live for months throughout the winter as they’re not flying so much so not getting worn out.

The huddle is made up of 3 layers. In the centre resides the queen bee and her eggs. Surrounding the queen and her brood are older worker bees. Then the younger workers are on the outside of the huddle (or cuddle!) and these outer bees use their wing muscles to create friction, which in turn adds warmth to the hive.

The honey that the bees worked hard to produce is consumed throughout the winter. If there is a day that’s around 10 degrees then they’ll fly out to go to the toilet and to investigate if there is any forage yet (pollen and nectar). If not, it’s a quick toilet break and back inside!

There’s of course a lot more to it but that’s the basic story of a honey bee in winter.

I quite like their philosophy - cuddling up with my family in the warmth on a cold day although not so keen on having to go to the loo outside!

the top layer of wax that covers the cells, the cappings, must be removed from each hexagon-shaped cell.

Bees use propolis (derived from resins and essential oils from local plants and pine trees) to "glue" together the wooden frames in their hive, and that must be scraped off so the frames can be separated.

The beeswax, which contains some honey, bee parts, and other impurities, must be melted and filtered or strained.

Most beeswax is gold or yellow but can also be in shades of orange and brown.

The colour of the wax is in most part determined by the type of plants the bees collect nectar from. Beeswax has a delightful, light fragrance of honey, flower nectar and pollen.

If you wonder why beeswax is so expensive, consider this; • It has been estimated that bees must fly 150,000 miles to produce one pound of wax.

• Bees must eat about six pounds of honey to secrete a pound of wax.

• For every 100 pounds of honey a beekeeper harvests, only one to two pounds of beeswax are produced.

Beeswax is a by-product of honey production.

It makes wonderful lip balms, hand lotions, hand creams, moisturisers. It’s also a great medium in cosmetics, wood finishes, waxes, leather polishes, and also for waterproofing products, and dental molds.

Beeswax makes superior, slow burning candles and burns more beautifully than any other wax. When lit it exudes a rich sweet fragrance of honey and pollen.

Each batch of beeswax has its own unique scent - a prized combination of the flowers and plants that fed its parent hive. Underneath the sweetness, look for notes of wild flowers, clover, avocados, or herbs. It’s truly magnificent.

It is impervious to water and unaffected by mildew. It has a melting point of 62 to 64 degrees celcius and should only be heated using a double boiler as it is flammable when subjected to fire and flames. It is pliable at 37.8 degrees celcius.

I hope this explains a little more about the Honey Bee and their adventures during winter. If you’d like to see more about the organic beeswax products we source, feel free to check out our online sites below.

Beeswax is produced by the female worker honey bees. The wax is secreted from wax glands on the underside of the bee's abdomen and is molded into six-sided cells which are filled with honey, then capped with more wax. When honey is harvested,

Keep well.

Phil

Facts about Beeswax

www.felixstowehomehoney.co.uk Instagram: @felixstowehomehoney FB: @FelixstoweHomeHoney Twitter @felixstowehomeH The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

43

Poetry in Motion Mai Black from Suffolk Writers Group shares her lockdown experiences I’m very lucky to live within walking distance of the Orwell Estuary. Even when we were only allowed out for sixty minutes a day, I had just enough time to cross through Bridge Wood, follow the path down to Orwell Country Park and get a quick glimpse of water shining through the trees before returning home.

Taking the same route every day, I found myself composing little poems along the way to add variety to my trip. I think composing a poem is a bit like meditation in that you have to focus on one thing and clear your mind of all other thoughts. It really helps to lighten the spirits and gain a deeper appreciation of things you might not have previously noticed, such as tiny wild flowers in the long grass, speckled lichen on tree bark or droplets of dew shining on a spider’s web.

I am not alone in this. I’ve been leading creative writing classes for ten years and up until now most people wanted 44

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

to write novels, autobiographies and short stories. Recently however, I’ve had a lot of enquiries from those wanting to try their hand at poetry, so I started running a group. Each week, we read aloud a famous poem and then take it in turns to ask a question or share an idea about it.

This is followed by a writing task for people to finish off during the week.

We’ve had a great mix of people attending the group – some experienced poets and some enthusiastic novices. I think that adds to the relaxed, mutually-supportive atmosphere.

This year I’ll be running another ten-week course. It takes place on Monday mornings 10.30am to 11.30am and will be repeated Monday evenings 7.30pm to 8.30pm. The theme will be ‘Nature Poetry’ and will feature poems by Robert Frost, Gerald Manley Hopkins and Siegfried Sassoon. We’ll all meet up via Zoom which takes a little bit of getting used to but it’s nice that nobody has to travel and it makes sharing work much easier. Quite a few people prefer it to meeting up in person.

If you or someone you know might be interested in Mia’s courses or groups, visit: www.suffolkwritersgroup.com or email me at suffolkwritersgroup@gmail.com.

Felixstowe Chamber of Commerce Local businesses proving to be ingenious and resourceful The lockdowns have been a heavy blow to the Felixstowe business sector, already struggling to try and recoup losses suffered during the previous lockdowns and the drastic reduction in the tourist trade.

Fortunately, however, many “independent” enterprises and other businesses in the town have risen to the occasion with innovative take-away schemes, as well as new online services, with several retailers also providing free deliveries for online orders placed by their loyal local customers.

Felixstowe Chamber of Trade and Commerce members have been helped and supported during these difficult times, with weekly newsletters containing up-todate details of all the Government’s grants and regulations, as well as links to the various loans and grants designed to help businesses stay afloat.

One member from the retail sector upon reading one of the newsletters was alerted to, applied for and secured a New Anglia Growth Hub grant that is enabling him to diversify his business to boost his profit margins. Another member, who provides companies with various training courses and lost all her business during the first lockdown, has managed to transfer her courses online with great success and now has bookings through to winter.

Members from the Chamber’s hospitality sector have also been striving to provide the best possible services available under the circumstance to customers, including regular Sunday roasts and other meals, with free home delivery in some cases.

The Chamber, which is an independent voluntary organisation, has been able to continue operating online with regular committee meetings and networking opportunities, with guest speakers via the Zoom video conferencing app, thanks to a grant from the East Suffolk Council’s Business Association Development fund.

This has enabled the Chamber to set up and run its online operations with success.

“We hope the ingenuity and resourcefulness already displayed by many local businesses will ensure that they are able to survive these hard times to help re-establish a thriving town centre in the future,” said a chamber spokesman.

For further information, see: www.felixstowechamber.co.uk

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

45

The Ipswich Bus Shelter The impact of lockdown on The Bus Shelter in Ipswich CIC The Bus Shelter is out of our geographic preference when it comes to featuring charities, but our die-hard readers will know that we are massive supporters of The Bus Shelter in Ipswich. Battling homelessness is a huge task and we’re honoured to share with you this update from one of our favourite Suffolk charities...

46

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Lockdown has had a huge impact for many organisations and we certainly have felt the strain massively here at The Bus Shelter.

Lockdown meant that both of our “pre loved” shops, both in Trimley and Ipswich had to close and with lockdown in full force meaning all major events and festivals did not go ahead we have lost around £8,000 in direct funds during the pandemic, which for us as a local organisation, is a huge amount.

Not only does having our shops closed mean that we lose financial support, but it means that we are not able to provide the support we do in our shops. These shops are community hubs, not just for

the homeless, but for anyone in need of support and not having our doors open to people who need us more than ever in these difficult times has been incredibly hard for us.

The need for food parcels began to rise at a pace we did not expect. We went from providing around four or five food parcels a week to at its peak around eighty to ninety food parcels a week being needed in our local area. These food parcels take around twenty minutes each to prepare and are then delivered to the person’s door. We have been inundated by people needing us to help them and for some we really have been a lifeline to them in a period of real crisis. At such a difficult time for so many we have been pleased to be there to help and support so many people, but of course this work all takes time and provision to help us keep going as well.

Another huge part of the work we do is the face-to-face outreach support we provide.

This is where we go out and check on those who are still living out on the streets who are incredibly vulnerable. This work has not stopped throughout lockdown.

The only problem we had was that we were unable to take any passengers on our buses throughout the pandemic. This has been incredibly hard for us as we know there are people out there still needing shelter and somewhere safe to sleep. Our outreach programme means we are out in Ipswich every Wednesday and Saturday evening and this has continued throughout lockdown to continue to provide hot drinks, food, sleeping bags and support, advice and practical help as well as emotional support. As the Director of The Bus Shelter Ipswich CIC, my job does not and has not stopped during lockdown. We are on call 24/7 and the need for this around the clock provision has been proven during the last few months.

During the lockdown period we have been incredibly lucky to receive donations from many of our local shops that support us, and we have been busy sorting these donations to sell in our shops and online.

Some of our volunteers have helped to advertise stock for us to help raise money

and sell our items online in a safe way.

Over Christmas 2020 we helped a family of six who have four children by providing them with presents and food so they could enjoy their Christmas and did not have to go without.

We have also recently been busy creating a new, larger space for our food parcels to be prepared and stored as the demand has increased and we found we did not have enough room, but this new area has cost us in materials to build within our base at Ipswich. As the demand grows, we must grow with it to ensure we can continue to support our community. We are struggling to finance these changes and have put out appeals for local businesses or individuals to support us by donating £50. By donating £50 to us we will put their company name or individuals name on our food bank thank you wall to celebrate everyone who has helped us help others.

The work we do is such a community effort and it really does go full circle; we need people to help us to enable us to help those in need. If you feel you would like to make a donation to The Bus Shelter Ipswich to ensure we can continue to carry out all of the work we do or follow our progress, then please feel free to contact us using the details below.

With thanks and wishing you all the best, Director, The Bus Shelter Ipswich justgiving.com/crowdfunding/tiffersbus www.facebook.com/tiffersbus The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

47

Art Meets Poetry Artists and poets join in a beautiful and unique creative collaboration Creativity and collaboration during the various lockdowns of 2020, brought together a global network of poets and writers who were invited to explore the interpretation of their works through the medium of abstract art!

This is quite a special story for us as our dear friend, Furrah Syed, a London-based artist and educator was about to have a packed year of exhibitions, workshops and various other art-based events, but as so many other creatives experienced, COVID-19 hit the world and things didn’t go as planned. You may be wondering why we’re featuring a Londonbased artist, so allow our editor to explain: “Before I stepped into the life of a magazine editor, I used to be more involved in the art scene. Being a British Punjabi, I was always inspired by my heritage and the western world - my art teachers at Deben High School in Felixstowe were possibly one of the main reason I was involved in the arts so much. Those teachers were truly brilliant.

They encouraged prolificacy in expression.

While exhibiting in London I met Furrah and her husband in 2009. I immediately warmed to the couple and was blown away with Furrah’s vision as an artist. Furrah’s purpose is to make art accessible to all, and as such, 48

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

her work is incredibly textured to allow for the visually impaired and blind to experience her work through touch. This aspect of Furrah’s work resonated with me a great deal. A close cousin of mine (much like a sister) was born with severe cerebral palsy, a lifelong condition that affects movement and co-ordination. It's caused by a problem with the brain that develops before, during or soon after birth. Interacting with my cousin as I grew up and watching her master various forms of tactile communication with others was fascinating to me. With such restriction of control in her muscles, she was still able to use her eyes and subtle arm movements, aided by her family and carers, to communicate. I was astounded. And to this day, I am humbled by the power and intimacy of “small” perceptions brought about by the smallest of sensory experiences. It goes to show that despite all odds, experience and communication of any level can produce a huge impact. And I think we can all relate to that on so many levels given the past year we’ve had.

For this reason, I am delighted to feature Furrah’s project in our 2021 special edition of The Felixstowe Magazine.”

In response to the devastation the world was met with from March 2020, Furrah really wanted to offer an artistic distraction for people who were online on various social media platforms, whilst stuck at home during the lockdowns. Furrah’s concept was to explore how a poet would respond

‘

to one of her abstract paintings in the form of a poem. As our editor mentioned, Furrah’s art is very much focused on texture, movement and colour, specifically colour energies. She knew how people reacted to her vibrant works so this idea of poetry and art synergy really excited her. Immediately the second concept emerged: how would she respond to a poem in the form of an abstract painting?

‘‘

Growing up with a passion for literature, Furrah felt a strong emotional response to a huge variety of poets and writers in her time.

Inspired by this concept, she contacted a few friends who were poets and writers. The response from them was astounding. Each fell quickly in love with Furrah’s concept and so Art Meets Poetry was born.

As the collaborations could be done online, there was no need to meet in person or display the results at a physical exhibition.

This allowed Furrah to collaborate internationally with creatives from UK, Ireland, Brazil and India.

“I have so much gratitude for all the wonderful creatives who have collaborated with me so far. This is an ongoing project and I’m delighted to work with authors such as Ruth Padel, Beverley Glick, Danielle Lima, Jenny Mitchell and currently Lynne Franks OBE. This project will continue to grow and evolve and I plan to collaborate with more creatives this year.”

Being active on all social media platforms and being interviewed on BBC Radio London, Furrah has reached a worldwide audience resulting in wonderful and enriching engagement and creative conversations.

For Furrah, one of the most elating results of this project has been making an impact on

those who previously were not that interested in art or poetry: “A good friend of mine told me that because of Art Meets Poetry, she really immersed herself into the concept of how an artist would make specific markings on a canvas in response to a particular line in a poem and she could actually understand it. She went through all my collaborations to date, and loved getting into the head of both the artist and the poet. This has led her to discover other poets and see poetry in a new and more accessible light. Hearing this was priceless and made the whole project worthwhile!”

There are plans to have Art Meets Poetry published as a book and be covered in a TV documentary next year.

Furrah’s art is driven by her passion to make art accessible to all. She effortlessly breaks down barriers making art a more inclusive experience rather than only for those who are highly educated in the subject. Her vibrant abstracts offer a multi-faceted way to interact with them: they can be viewed in any of four orientations, they change with the light and they can be experienced using the sense of touch.

Furrah’s desire to make art accessible to all is what inspired her to create her Art Appreciation Workshop for the Blind and Low Vision, which she has delivered globally to many art and educational institutions such as MOMA Wales, MCA in Sydney, Vision Australia, and Hong Kong Association for the Blind, to name a few.

“Art is an enriching experience that can take your troubles away just for a few moments.

Whether I’m creating or just looking at a piece of art, it has really saved me in many a difficult time!” – Furrah Syed On the next page are examples of a few collaborations. To find out more about Furrah’s art practice please visit: www.furrahsyedart.com Instagram: @furrahsyedart Facebook: Furrah Syed Art Twitter: @FurrahSyed Linkedin @FurrahSyed The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

49

Art Meets Poetry Collaborations...

Painting: “Carmine” by Furrah Syed Poem: “Pulse” by Danelle Lima, in response to “Carmine” A pause My attention captured in that narrative of an elaborate universe displayed on canvas As I now attempt to put in print A great deal has been achieved A long way to gradually start feeling part of an almost private world Consumed by colours that glow brightly in details That give me answers And blaze a trail to that vital flame that is unseen and lies beneath the surface Though skeptical of what it might be I am riveted by a spectacle of swirling messages of unknown hope That comes from the flawless chaos inherent to existing things Succinctly evoking my senses through such a hypnotic beauty and truth I feel immune to the perils of losing myself I feel the simple joy of being alive if into memories I delve.

50

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Painting: “Julius” by Furrah Syed Poem: “Spending Moments” by Sunny Bansal (aka Pankh) in response to “Julius” The sun sets on the day to make way for a beautiful night The hours slip away The more you try to hold on tight The more you roam in the memories of the time when you were weak uncover you will, the treasures unseen for the value only increases once they’re antique Be it memories or be it gold Everything gains it’s value Once it’s past its life once it’s old Alas! For we should’ve cherished when we still were young and lived utmost for now the sighs are old and turbulent but here’s to the next in good spirit, a toast Love and be loved life has its days numbered and few reminisce the moments spent the only currency that should matter to you.

Poem: “Human Fire” by Ruth Padel ‘Music should strike fire in the heart of man.’

(Beethoven to Bettina von Arnim, 1812) You spend mornings composing, tossing away old drafts in crumpled balls, then plunge into veins of forest. The notebook swings in your pocket. Inspiration springs from shadow, thistle-chandeliers, red nipples of wild haws. You are Prometheus the benefactor, stealing flame to give to humans. A Shiva ray creating and destroying. You are defiance, a golden razor, a regatta. Lucifer falling and flickering with the discipline of firebreak.

Melody and rhythm flow from the molten blue of summer hills.

But there’s a coppery stain on the rising moon. You know creation comes with pain. The stolen gift draws punishment in its wake and ends in the rock, the vulture and the chain.

You stride on through the woods. You believe in freedom. Human fire, created out of clay.

Painting: “Prometheus” by Furrah Syed in response to “Human Fire”

Painting: “Xavier” by Furrah Syed Poem: “Taking Cover” by Ruth Padel in response to “Xavier” I would love to be part of it.

To get out of lockdown, soar into the kiss and shadow of the fern among secret embryros of chlorophyll and fallen trees with their thousand temblors of life to come.

I would love to be back with the waiting stillness and dark caves of green.

A human soul, asking humbly to be let in.

I promise to stay hushed among the leaves while a sambar comes to drink at the pool, a tiger passes in her watchful velvet and the leopard calls, or a coppersmith bird.

I am besieged, like everyone, in a frozen world of disease that threatens us all remembering the jungle as a falling feather remembers the wing.

www.furrahsyedart.com Instagram: @furrahsyedart To find out more about Furrah’s art practice and the Art Meets Poetry project, please visit:

Facebook: Furrah Syed Art Twitter: @FurrahSyed Linkedin @FurrahSyed The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

51

IN THE

Garden Felixstowe’s gardening twins share their expert knowledge and experience John Evelyn, a member of the court of Charles II, is best known as a great 17th century diarist, alongside Samuel Pepys, who co-founded The Royal Society and was one of England’s great horticulturists.

One of his first books A Guide to Salads published in 1699 extolled the medicinal benefits of salad crops and wholesome vegetables. In 1652 he began to create a garden at Sayes Court in Deptford inspiring him to write Elysium Britannicum, a history of garden management, and Sylva, about tree cultivation. Both books were to aid the restoration of the landscape following the Civil War. He was a great practitioner of the art and science involved in gardening and should be much celebrated today for his great work.

Gardening may be an obsession for some or perhaps it is a newfound pastime 52

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

following the challenging times of 2020.

Tackling an overgrown garden, an unkempt allotment or just tidying an unloved patch of garden, connects us with nature which has enormous benefits to our wellbeing.

Evergreen shrubs give substance to the garden. They are useful for screening or windbreaks when trimmed to form a hedge. Deciduous shrubs have the benefits of flowers and seasonal leaf colour. Select shrubs with scent and berries to encourage wildlife. Cotinus coggygria Golden Spirit, makes a good alternative to the more popular purple leaf varieties of this deciduous smoke bush. Prune in autumn to keep them in shape. Coprosma and Corokia, originating from New Zealand, are small-leafed evergreens.

They are easy to trim and their foliage looks pretty in a vase with flowers.

In winter the white flowers of Helleborus Niger (Christmas Rose) bloom from December onwards and appear before the Galanthus (snowdrop) and the yellow stars of Eranthis hyemalis (aconite). The large yellow flowers of trumpet daffodils herald spring along with their dainty cousins, the scented flowers of Narcissi

Jonquilla and Narcissi Cyclamineus. The multi-headed Tazetta Narcissi Avalanche flowers early and Geranium in April – good fragrant varieties for pots. The scented late blooming Narcissi Poeticus (Pheasant Eye) has a yellow centre edged with red surrounded by pure white petals. They look particularly good in grass with cowslips and should be planted in the autumn.

Convallaria majalis (Lily of the Valley) with highly scented white bell-shaped flowers appear in April and May and like shade.

Two more popular rhizome plants are Ophiopogon nigrescens (black grass) and Liriope muscari which has purple or white flowers from late summer onwards.

Sweet peas, originating in 1699 from Sicily also have a wonderful scent. Lathyrus odorata Matucana is an old variety and has dark magenta and purple tinged flowers. Black Knight, Charlie’s Angel and Nimbus have good scent. They like to scramble so make an obelisk from bamboo canes and keep cutting the flowers to ensure a long flowering period.

Collect some seed pods and sow seeds in pots either in the autumn or spring.

We were brought up on a farm with an orchard of old apple trees including Bramley, Cox’s Orange Pippin and D’Arcy Spice, two pear trees, Comice and Conference, a Victoria plum and a greengage tree.

More fruit trees were planted, such as Discovery, Spartan, Ingrid Marie, James Grieve, Worcester Pearmain and Egremont.

The blossom looks pretty in the spring, encourages pollinators, and what is better than harvesting and eating the fruit? Fruit trees can be bought grafted on dwarf stock or grown as cordons if space is limited. Young fruit trees need formative pruning to create a good shape and should be pruned in winter before Christmas to encourage production.

Those belonging to the Prunus genus, like cherry, plum and apricot, should be cut back in midsummer to reduce the risk of silver leaf fungus.

White flowers look good against a backdrop of green. Two of the best scented flowering shrubs are Philadelphus Belle Etoile with its white flowers and maroon centre and Syringa Madame Lemoine, a double white

and considered the most fragrant lilac.

Mrs Sinkins, a white Dianthus introduced

by Mr Sinkins in 1868 and named after his wife, has the strongest scent of any ‘pinks’.

Digitalis purpurea Albiflora (foxglove) has white spires in May and June attracting bees and Agapanthus Snowy White flowers in July. Gaura lindheimeri has lovely star shaped white flowers on arching stems which flower all summer long. This increasingly popular perennial from South Africa enjoys hot sunny conditions and needs only a simple cut back in spring.

Two worthy bulbs with white flowers in April and June respectively are Leucojum (Snowflake) and Camassia Leichtinii Alba.

Nerine bowdenii (see photo) is an autumn flowering bulb from South Africa and when planted partly visible in a dry and sunny position, gives a showy display of pink, scarlet or white flowers when their leaves have faded away. If your clump becomes dense, dig it up in spring to separate into a lesser number of bulbs and replant.

The top selling tulip, Queen of Night is deep velvet maroon and looks stunning whereas Red Riding Hood Double, an earlier flowering variety, has large red flowers with marbled lines on its leaves and is shorter in stature. Tulip bulbs are considerably cheaper than they were in the 17th century when John Evelyn was busy writing his diaries and books as the world was gripped with tulipmania causing a tulip buying frenzy with single bulbs selling for a fortune.

With all the time we have at home, we hope you can enjoy your gardening with more knowledge and vigour.

Heather and Vivian Pratt 01394 283976 - t.wins@hotmail.co.uk The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

53

FELIXSTOWE

History

54

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Bathing machines line the West beach in 1911.

Credit: Thank you to Justin Grimwood for providing these photos from his personal collection postcards.

The Felixstowe of Magazine - 2021 55

Breast Cancer Charity Makes A Splash With The Big Dip

Wild Swimming to Raise Funds for Women Coping with Breast Cancer To kick-start 2021, and shake off the Christmas cobwebs, local breast cancer charity, Little Lifts, has launched an invigorating fundraiser encouraging wild swimmers to take part in The Big Dip Challenge.

Little Lifts, which launched in 2017, provides complimentary Little Lifts boxes to women facing chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment. Each Little Lifts box is full of thoughtfully selected items to not only help alleviate some of the physical side effects that some may experience, but many of the items simply provide a dose of emotional support for women during their treatment.

One lady who received a Little Lifts box was Emma Hollis from Felixstowe. Emma’s breast cancer diagnosis came out of the blue. The news was a lot to process at first but after feeling touched by the support, care, and 56

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

kindness she received from friends, family, medical staff and Little Lifts, she was able to cope with the treatment and path ahead. This is her story…

Emma first discovered a lump in her breast during a bath one night. Having had a breast cyst in the past, she was aware that a cyst might reoccur. She also knew that it was still advisable to have any lump checked out. She was referred to Ipswich Hospital by her GP where she had biopsies of the lump and lymph nodes, and was told that the suspected cyst was in fact breast cancer, and had spread to her lymph nodes.

Receiving the news was a shock, “I was absolutely surprised. It didn’t feel like it was happening. I felt like I was watching someone else going through it. I waited 10 days to see if it had spread and that was harder than any of the treatment. I found it a real struggle. My main concern was that I didn’t want people to feel sorry for me or treat me any differently.”

“I found it quite tricky. I’m a control freak so I always like to find a way around things.

But you can’t learn a crash course in oncology. As an independent person you

have to put trust in other people, into the hospital staff – what else can you do?”

As her treatment progressed, Emma realised that she wasn’t alone on the rollercoaster, and that in fact, she could steer things herself a bit too. She said, “I thought to myself, I don’t have to wait until I’m ill, there are things I can do to make things better for me.”

After her tumour and lymph nodes were removed, her lymph nodes tested negative for cancer. Emma underwent another operation to remove further lymph nodes, which also tested negative, indicating that the biopsy itself had removed all of the cancer positive lymph nodes. After 28 sessions of radiotherapy and six rounds of chemotherapy, she continues to take Tamoxifen.

Emma navigated her diagnosis with support and gratitude. She said,

‘‘

I stayed quite positive. I guess I was worried that if I didn’t stay positive it would get on top of me.

Counselling was amazing. Friends and work were brilliant – people get you through it. I didn’t appreciate the kindness in strangers ’til this happened. It’s not all been negative for me. I’ve done some great workshops and courses, accessed some great information, and of course, receiving a Little Lifts box made a big difference too.”

Emma was incredibly sick with chemotherapy, and she also experienced chemical burn on her hands and feet. She had an allergic reaction to her dressings, and soreness around her mouth. She told us that she wasn’t able to watch TV or read books because of the brain fog, but when she received her Little Lifts box she was delighted.

Top: Founder, Oa Hackett. Below: Little Lifts contents

“I was absolutely stunned, it made me emotional, and actually I’m emotional now thinking about it. It was just so thoughtful. It wasn’t just full of leaflets, it was one of the kindest things I’ve ever seen. Really amazing.”

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

57

“There were things I hadn’t even thought of like the plastic cutlery, but oh goodness did it come in handy. I loved the lollies and lolly cards, and spices. I liked the fact it was such a variation – to help with eating, amazing moisturisers, which were absolutely brilliant. I’d been using really basic stuff and it was so nice to have something to pamper yourself with.”

‘‘

The thought that had gone into it. It also gave me some practical tasks to support my health, that felt empowering... to have a box of resources at my disposal. I used absolutely everything.

She concluded, “I’ve been incredibly lucky with the outcome I’ve had. I’ve been absolutely blown away by support, care and kindness as well as all the medical treatment and science. Compassion and kindness is amazing. I feel very well and lucky and humbled.”

Since the pandemic, the charity has been working hard to keep funds afloat.

Founder of Little Lifts, Oa Hackett said, “We know that taking on a physical and mental challenge can really help to improve health and wellbeing, which is why we thought the start of 2021 would be a good reason to take to the waters.”

Oa added, “Swimming outdoors in midwinter might not be everyone’s cup of tea, and it must be taken seriously, but actually it’s a great time to challenge yourself and tend to your wellbeing all whilst supporting women with breast cancer. It’s great to see so many wild swimmers are joining in. I’ve been out swimming myself this month and I have 58

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

noticed what an invigorating and positive impact it’s had on my wellbeing already.”

Participants are invited to take a ‘Big Dip’ as a one-off or there’s an invitation to swim weekly or even daily, the options are down to the individual as, due to social distancing, this is not a group activity like traditional charity Dips are usually.

It costs £15 to register and those who take part in the Big Dip will receive their very own Little Lifts’ Big Dip Calendar to track their swims, a choccy treat to keep their energy up, and the first 100 people to register will also be sent a limited edition Little Lifts swimming cap!

Participants are encouraged to involve their friends and family to sponsor the challenge.

Individuals can set up their own fundraising page online: https://littlelifts.enthuse.com/ fundraising/start#!/ Kirsty Turner from Norfolk has already raised over £1000 for The Big Dip Challenge. A year ago Kirsty was half way through her chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer.

She received a Little Lifts box at the start of her treatment. She told us, “Receiving my box was like a bright jewel in this otherwise very bizarre time. The box was filled with useful things and little luxuries but most importantly was a reminder that I wasn't alone on this journey. To say thank you, I'm going to try and complete 15 sea swims in January, although if the weather takes a turn for the worse, I'll try in rivers, or as a last resort, in the kids pool in the back garden!”

Speaking of her love of wild swimming, she said, “I get such a buzz out of the cold water, it's so intense, you're really 'in the moment' and I think of nothing else when I’m there, and the zing you get afterwards lasts all day. I get a great sense of personal achievement from doing something so seemingly nuts in inclement weather and dark seas (whilst being very careful). I am encouraging others to try cold water 'dipping' too, and also importantly, to understand how to do it safely. It's like nothing else, and the endorphin release is fab, but it’s essential to take all the proper precautions and to research it carefully

before you embark on your cold water adventures.”

To find out more and to register go to: https://www.littlelifts. org.uk/events/littlelifts-big-dipchallenge/ For those wanting something slightly less exhilarating yet equally as active, Little Lifts has also this week launched Little Lifts’ Big 30 - Let’s get moving! The charity is encouraging people to do 30 minutes of exercise every day for 30 days. Whether it’s walking around the block, going for a run, star jumps while watching TV or doing steps on the stairs – as long as you’re moving for 30 minutes, it counts. Participants will receive your own Little Lifts Big 30 calendar in the post to record their activities (UK only) and they can choose the day they start the 30 day challenge. £10 for adults, 16 & under £5 – sign up fee includes calendar to track daily 30 min activities.

Event info: Let’s get moving with the Little Lifts’ Big 30! https://www.littlelifts.org.uk/events/littleliftsbig-30-lets-get-moving/ So, whether you’re doing your Dip at The Dip, by the Pier, in your garden pool, or you’re star-jumping to entertain the kids or doing lunges while watching TV, you are all welcome to join in!

Gordon Rodwell Funeral Directors Serving Suffolk In your time of need, we’ll take care

of all the funeral arrangements Call us 24 hours a day • Dignity Funeral Plans with Trust Fund • Complimentary Legal Services Membership • Arrangements can be made at your home if preferred

Gordon Rodwell Funeral Service, 79 St. Andrews Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 7BW

Tel: 01394 671999 The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

59

1 2

Young

The

PHOTOGRAPHER 2021

60

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Supporting Young Photographers

Congrats go to Isaac Vesey (aged 11) for this beautiful shot of mushroom at the Grove! It’s the simple things in life that make us smile the most and noticing the everyday beauty of nature always wins us over.

Well done, Isaac!

Honourable mentions: 1. Millie Wilcox (age 13), 2. Molly Bailey (age 15). Photographers are welcome to join our Facebook group: @FelixstowePhotographers.

1

2

Photo of the Year OUR 2021 COMPETITION

A stunning photo captured by Michael Clarke, entitled “Washed Up” To next year’s competition, simply email us or join our facebook group: Felixstowe Photographers.

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021 62 enter

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

63

Felixstowe Photographers HONOURABLE MENTIONS FOR THE 2021 PHOTO COMPETITION FACEBOOK GROUP: @FELIXSTOWEPHOTOGRAPHERS

James Gleeson

Carl Earrye

64

David Wilson

Nick Murrell

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Carl Earrye

Trish Thomas

Nick Murrell

Hana Studnicka

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021 Liss Duffield

Trish Thomas

Becky Knights

65

J

SE T Maidstone & Causton School Forming a strong community, to ensure each and every child will enjoy, achieve and thrive We offer a secure environment from Reception through to Year 6 where children are happy to learn. We have a tailored curriculum, wide enrichment programme and Thrive programme.

We pride ourselves on the pastoral care we give to each and every one of our students, developing and supporting them when they join and throughout their time at our school.

We work closely with our children’s families to form a strong community, so we can ensure each and every child will enjoy, achieve and thrive throughout their time with us, ensuring they are ready for high school when they leave us at the end of Year 6 and laying the foundation for the skills they will need in life.

Catering for Reception and Years 1 and 2, SET Maidstone is based on a site with a large playground, trike track and grass garden area. There are three main play areas that include a wide variety of play equipment including our tyre park, dino wall and trim trail.

From Year 3 children move up to SET Causton, which is set in spacious grounds, including a forest school area, regularly used by children from both sites, a playground and a large field. There is a wide variety of fitness play equipment to suit all year groups, to promote active play.

We are proud of our libraries at both sites, these are used to effectively promote a love of reading in school and enhance the children’s learning.

Thrive rooms are located at both sites, and are used daily to support individuals and groups; to engage them in developing their social skills through the use of sensory and nurture activities.

Our website is full of information, including our prospectus, so you can read about our warm and friendly School in detail. You can 66

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Mrs Lucy Thompson, Head of School with children from SET Maidstone & Causton School

Photo credits and copyright: Seckford Education Trust

also find us @SETMandC on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates.

If you have any further questions about our School and admissions, please contact: SET Maidstone Infants School call 01394 283375 or email maidstoneadmin@maidstoneandcauston.org SET Causton Junior School call 01394 283374 or email caustonadmin@maidstoneandcauston.org www.maidstoneandcaustonschool.org.uk Reception admissions applications are via Suffolk County Council and must be made by 15th January 2021.

The Online Print Gallery A place for artsists, photographers, family and friends Felixstowe is known for its array of artists and photographers and while each may have a devoted following of their own, no one gets more excited about their work than family and friends.

And so, for creatives and their family, friends and fans, The Online Print Gallery was born.

For most creatives trying to make a living out of their work, there are three things that, by survey, always stand in the way - three things, that The Online Print Gallery solves: • A COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE of marketing, sales, reproduction and distribution, • A HASSLE-FREE print and delivery service to buyers.

• AN ONLINE COMMUNITY of creatives and fans of art and photography.

With these services in place, artists and photographers gain the freedom to focus on what they love best - creating!

On the other hand, family and friends might like gift ideas that capture the work of the creatives amongst them. For them The Online Print Gallery provides:

• AFFORDABLE & QUALITY beautiful art and photography reproduction suitable for all budgets from fine art to budget posters.

• FUN gift ideas, including mugs, blankets, postcards and more, that encapture the works they love the most.

The Online Print Gallery is not just a website, but a culture of creative minds and spirits who want to share their ideas and work with everyone, no matter what budget fans of art and photography have to hand.

Felixstowe artists and photographers are all invited to publish a portfolio of their work. To find out more connect with us. www.theonlineprintgallery.com Instagram: @theonlineprintgallery Facebook: @theonlineprintgallery Online community: https://www.facebook. com/groups/topgcommunity The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

67

LOCAL POET

Graham Thompson Perceiving the world through imagination and the passion of writing My name is Graham and I’ve lived in Felixstowe for 40 years. I have been visually impaired since the age of nine following the removal of a large brain tumour. I love writing poetry and a few years ago won a prize in a competition run by Suffolk Council.

IMAGINE Imagine a world without any light, no sunny days, just the dark of night.

Imagine being unable to see the faces of the ones you love, not being able to see down below nor up above.

Imagine not being able to see this amazing world of ours, blind to the beauty of animals, trees and flowers.

Imagine not being able to see the written word, having to rely on memory and what you’ve heard.

Imagine not being able to see your way around, and crossing busy roads just by using sound.

Imagine not being able to see your favourite TV, and missing the beauty of a Christmas tree, But if you are blind, you need not despair, for there is a light we all can share.

The special light Jesus offers to each and every one, passed down with love from The Father to Son. Graham Thompson

68

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Local Paddle Boarder Laura Ayling Something a little more unusual to encourage an adventure in the great outdoors!

I have always enjoyed being on or in the water but this summer was the first time I had tried paddle boarding as I saw that it had become really popular. The second I tried it, I loved it!

Two of my coastguard friends have their own paddle boarding club in Southend and I realised that we didn’t have an “active” group in Felixstowe for it!

I set up a page so that everyone in Felixstowe and the surrounding areas could join, learn new skills and meet new people.

It’s just so much fun to go out when it’s calm. It’s pretty refreshing when you fall off - I’ve taken a few photos while I’ve been paddle boarding near the pier and on the River Deben. My favourite is with my puppy Bramble, on his first time paddle boarding with me.

Paddle boarding is really great fun and if you’d like to join our Facebook community please visit: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/316332689584744/

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

69

Level Two Youth Project Supporting and promoting the wellbeing of young people and families Established in 2001, Level Two started as a small youth club on the seafront in Felixstowe. Over the years it has evolved into a comprehensive youth service offering a variety of essential services to promote the welfare of young people.

“The service we provide is more important than ever,” says project manager Shez Hopkins. “The mental health of children and young people has taken a real hammering and the ripples out on families are huge.”

The effects of Covid-19 disproportionately affect the young, as routines, structures and relationships are interrupted at a critical moment of self-development.

“It is so important to ensure children and young people are as well-resourced as possible to manage their own challenges,” Shez says. “This means that they do not put stress on statutory services which are really hard to access at the moment.”

Level Two’s primary services are mentoring and counselling, though the project offers support in a number of ways, providing supportive relationships and positive experiences designed to enhance the personal and social development of young people in Felixstowe and surrounding areas.

70

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Our 1-1 Mentoring programme gives young people an opportunity to share their worries and concerns, while exploring any issues they are currently facing. “Our mentoring is there as a support service across all levels – from someone not feeling very good about themselves to serious mental health conditions,” Shez explains. “We want to intervene early as a preventative measure.”

Our Counselling service is very much a listening therapy – a service that Level Two is committed to by recently expanding the Team in direct response to need. When the pandemic hit, Shez and her team invested in technological infrastructure to provide counselling services remotely.

“We are being as creative as we can with remote services such as WhatsApp group chats and Zoom sessions with quizzes, games, activities and discussions that young people can interact with.”

Level Two is also the only sexual health service provider in Felixstowe. “We work with Terrence Higgins Trust to provide free condoms, chlamydia screenings and information on sex and relationships. We host a weekly drop-in session at Felixstowe School.”

The project has developed positive working relationships with local education facilities and has dedicated youth workers in all schools in Felixstowe. Level Two also has two minibuses – one for transporting young people to events and another bespoke youth bus.

For info please visit www.leveltwo.org or contact Shez Hopkins on 07724356723

Community listings & Useful Contacts...

DUE TO COVID-19, PLEASE CHECK WITH THE ORGANISATION OR GROUPS AS DETAILS MAY HAVE CHANGED

Town Council & Politics Felixstowe Town Council Town Hall, Felixstowe, IP11 2AG 01394 282086 www.felixstowe.gov.uk Town Clerk townclerk@felixstowe.gov.uk Deputy Town Clerk debbie.frost@felixstowe.gov.uk Mayor’s Secretary lorna.monsen@felixstowe.gov.uk Planning Administration Officer celia.page@felixstowe.gov.uk Cemetery/Allotments sue.faversham@felixstowe.gov.uk Administration Assistant sarah.morrison@felixstowe.gov.uk Felixstowe Town Mayor Cllr Mark Jepson mayor@felixstowe.gov.uk

Councillors (by ward) Mick Richardson Marshes Ward 07946 028517 mick.richardson@felixstowe.gov.uk

Nick Barber Coastal Ward 07876 757268 nick.barber@felixstowe.gov.uk

Steve Gallant Coastal Ward 01394 276336 steve.gallant@felixstowe.gov.uk

Doreen Savage Coastal Ward 01394 285895 doreen.savage@felixstowe.gov.uk

Steve Wiles Coastal Ward 07986 566225 steve.wiles@felixstowe.gov.uk

Darren Aitchison Coastal Ward 07479 556736 darren.aitchison@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Conservative

MAP OF WARDS

Seamus Bennett Coastal Ward 07818 664751 seamus.bennett@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Liberal Democrats The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

71

Graham Newman Port Ward 07802 397905 graham.newman@felixstowe.gov.uk

Sharon Harkin Coastal Ward 01394 671758 sharon.harkin@felixstowe.gov.uk

Mark Jepson Coastal Ward 01394 278622 mark.jepson@felixstowe.gov.uk

Margaret Morris Walton Ward 01394 274345 margaret.morris@felixstowe.gov.uk

Mike Deacon Walton Ward 01394 211146 mike.deacon@felixstowe.gov.uk

Kimberley Williams Walton Ward 01394 284180 kimberley.williams@felixstowe.gov.uk

Andy Smith Port Ward 01394 283283 andy.smith@felixstowe.gov.uk

Stuart Bird Port Ward 01394 275128 stuart.bird@felixstowe.gov.uk

Tracey Green Port Ward tracey.green@felixstowe.gov.uk

72

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT FOR SUFFOLK COASTAL: Dr Therese Coffey MP therese.coffey.mp@parliament.uk 02072197164

Political Parties Labour Branch Secretary - Mark Jones postmarkjones@gmail.com www.felixstowelabour.org.uk Conservatives Chair - Graham Newman Chairman 07802 397 905 chairman@suffolkcoastalconservatives.org.uk suffolkcoastalconservatives.org.uk Liberal Democrats Chair - Harry Dangerfield contact@eastsuffolk-libdems.org.uk eastsuffolk-libdems.org.uk Green Party Cllr. John Matthissen 01449 258894 john@suffolkgreenparty.org.uk suffolkcoastal.greenparty.org.uk UKIP www.ukip.org

Transportation

Museums & Theatre

Great Anglia (train services) 0345 600 7245 contactcentre@greateranglia.co.uk www.greateranglia.co.uk felixstowe-bus-train-times.co.uk

Felixstowe Museum

Felixstowe Bus Service (First Ipswich Buses) First Ipswich Customer Services (Operates Routes 72, X7, 75, 76, 76A, 77, 77A, 978) 045 602 0121 firstsouthuk@firstgroup.com felixstowe-bus-train-times.co.uk Felixstowe Road Train (seafront) www.facebook.com/Felixstowe-RoadTrain-2357840377564990/ Ipswich to London Coach National Express Coaches 0871 781 8181 (Mon to Sun 8am-8pm) (Option menu calls 13p per minute + network charge) www.nationalexpress.com Harwich Harbour Foot & Bicycle Ferry

Viewpoint Road, IP11 3TW 01394 674355 (answerphone) felmuseum@btopenworld.com felixstowemuseum.org fb: @FelixstoweMuseum Palace Cinema Crescent Road, IP11 7BG 01394 282787 boxoffice@palacecinemafelixstowe. com www.palacecinemafelixstowe.com fb: @ThePalaceCinemaFelixstowe Spa Pavilion

01728 666329 chris@harwichharbourferry.com www.harwichharbourferry.com FACTS

Undercliff Road West, IP11 2DX Box Office: 01394 284 962 Restaurant, Bar & CafĂŠ: 01394 336 336 fb: @SpaPavilion

01394 282857 or 270339 The Portakabin, Garrison Lane Car Park, Felixstowe, IP11 7SH admin@factsbus.org.uk www.factsbus.org.uk

Costume hire Felixstowe Musical Theatre A very extensive wardrobe available for hire to other groups, or individuals wanting fancy dress at very reasonable rates.

01394 270328

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

73

Arts & Performance

Music in Felixstowe

Felixstowe Art Group

With over 130 members from Felixstowe and the surrounding areas, the aim of the group is to build a community of artists and facilitate learning and development of skills as well as being a social group. We meet every week for painting sessions and also have demo evenings twice a month.

If you are interested in joining then please fill in the contact form on this website or call into our Bent Hill Gallery.

Membership is £20 a year (with a reduced rate for students). Member benefits include entitlement to display paintings in the gallery and in the annual exhibition as well as attending weekly painting sessions and free entry to the twice a month Tuesday evening meetings. If you would like to see if the group is for you before joining then do come along to one of our Tuesday evening talks (£2 for non-members). www.felixstoweartgroup.org Orwell Art Group Kirton and Falkenham Performing Arts Kirton & Falkenham Performing Arts - KAFPA - stages two productions each year and also gets involved in other village events.

We are in Suffolk, a few miles inland from Felixstowe. New members are very welcome and we very much appreciate our regular and loyal friends and audiences.

Chairman, Jack Cade 07802 937154 or enquiries@kafpa.org.uk. www.kafpa.org.uk Felixstowe Sewing School A crafty and sewing haven in Felixstowe run by Amanda Bowden, (BTEC Distinction, BA Hons Fashion, PGCE) this small and very friendly sewing school offers classes, and lessons for the beginner and novice.

07787 981 493 amanda_bowden18@hotmail.com www.felixstowesewingschool.co.uk 74

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

We embrace most genres of music and also host a very popular lunchtime series given by young Suffolk musicians.

01394 670633 www.felixstowemusic.com Felixstowe Music Theatre Starting in 1966 and affiliated to N.O.D.A (National Operatic and Dramatic Association).

Over the years we have supported many charities and produces award winning shows. www.felixstowemusicaltheatre.co.uk The Company of Four 07781 997517 info@cof4.co.uk www.thecompanyoffour.co.uk Orwell Connection Choir The Orwell Connection Choir enjoy meeting weekly on Tuesday evenings from 7.30 - 9.30pm at the Convent in St John’s Road, Felixstowe. We sing a broad range of music from musical hits to excerpts from popular sacred works. We perform concerts throughout the year at many venues in Felixstowe. fb: Orwell Connection Choir orwellconnectionschoir@gmail.com Felixstowe Live Gig Guide fb: Felixstowe Live Gig Guide Felixstowe Harmonies A 45-strong vocal harmony group which performs songs from the light classical repertoire, folk, jazz and blues to pop, swing and songs from the big band era. felixstowe.harmonies@gmail.com www.felixstoweharmonies.co.uk

Charities, Service Organisations & Support BASIC Life Charity An acronym for Business And Service In Christ, BASIC endeavours to provide encouragement and support to those in our community who may be less able than ourselves and to enable people irrespective of their race or religion to be provided with the BASICs of life: Shelter, Food, Education, Recreation and Spiritual guidance. BASIC has two retail shops in Felixstowe and Walton.

Felixstowe Shop & Deliveries 17 Hamilton Road, IP11 7AJ 01394 272618 Walton Shop & Head Office 312 High Street, Walton, IP11 9QJ 01394 279400 basiclife@live.co.uk www.basic.org.uk British Heart Foundation 78 Hamilton Road, IP11 7AF 01394 282339 www.bhf.org.uk RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution)

Boost

A small charity based in Felixstowe, existing to pioneer partnerships between faith and education. We work relentlessly to show love, hope and change to the young people with whom we work. www.boostfelixstowe.org.uk Salvation Army With Life Together Groups at various times and locations. Our Community Centre is open throughout the week from 10am 3pm to help assist with with everything from running our Food bank to help with signposting. We also employ a youth worker who helps run youth projects throughout the year, as well as regular groups such as Young Dreamers, our performing arts group for 11-25 year olds that take part in evening concerts to full scale productions.

Felixstowe Corps, Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk Lions Club Providing humanitarian need, youth programmes, supporting the local community, health initiatives, partner projects and more.

Our volunteer lifeboat crews provide a 24hour rescue service in the UK and Ireland, and our seasonal lifeguards look after people on busy beaches. Our Flood Rescue Team helps those affected by flooding.

7 Grasmere Avenue, IP11 9SG Judy Jones - Hon secretary 01394 282090 njones500@aol.com www.rnli.org.uk

@lionsclubfelixstowe Level Two Youth Project To promote the welfare of young people (age 7-25) living in Felixstowe and surrounding villages, through supportive relationships and positive experiences, designed to enhance their personal and social development.

54 Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL 01394 272521

Inspire Suffolk A local charity running courses for 16-25 year olds to build confidence, skills and support them into work, education and more, and sport activities for children. www.inspiresuffolk.org.uk The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

75

John LeVay Care Information Centre A wonderful centre used by many in Felixstowe, which provides support, advice and information for patients and their carers living with, and beyond, cancer.

Call Louise or Julie on 01473 715748 Felixstowe Dementia Action Alliance The Felixstowe Dementia Action Alliance aims to make Felixstowe a Dementia Friendly Community. We will do this by engaging with local businesses and organisations to raise awareness of dementia. We will liaise with people with dementia and their carers to deliver person centred outcomes in a timely fashion.

Helen Greengrass: 07717 150993 fxtdaa@gmail.com Befriending scheme The Befriending Scheme provides friendship and learning opportunities for vulnerable people (16yrs+), including those with learning disabilities, mental health needs, older people, and other isolated groups. We also provide lots of volunteering opportunities with extra support for those who need it.

Felixstowe Listening Service A service of Inspire Counselling and Training and has been active in Felixstowe since 2012. Since we began over 120 clients have received our support whilst many churches, groups and individuals have undertaken training in aspects of pastoral care, listening skills and counselling. We believe that we have equipped many people to provide constructive and effective care for others and that the outworking of this is being demonstrated in the community.

01473 217694 contact@inspirecounselling.org.uk www.inspirecounselling.org.uk Coastwatch Felixstowe Coastwatch has over 60 highly trained volunteers who man the lookout in twos or threes helping to keep our beaches and inshore waters safe.

01394 670808 www.coastwatch-felixstowe.co.uk Walton Parish Nursing

angie.bentley@thebefriendingscheme.org.uk 01787 371333 info@thebefriendingscheme.org.uk www.thebefriendingscheme.org.uk/Felixstowe Memory Café For people living with dementia and their carers to come along and meet everyone.

We would like to encourage anyone who is interested to help either as a volunteer, or as potential sponsors to pop in and meet us.

We can show you around, introduce you to the new facilitator Tony Lazell, and demonstrate to you how important this facility is for people living with dementia in Felixstowe.

For refreshments purposes if you would like to pop in please let us know. We were formally known as Synergy Cafe. fxtdaa@gmail.com Salvation Army, Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL The Parent Hub https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/children-families-and-learning/the-parent-hub/ Social Services 0808 800 4005 Open Monday to Thursday, 8am to 5:20pm and Friday, 8am to 4:20pm. Calls are free from landlines and most mobiles.

76

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Walton Parish Nursing is a Christian charity who support people in the Walton community towards whole person healthcare. This is care for the person’s overall well-being, incorporating body, mind and spirit. Walton Parish Nursing is “owned” and supported by three churches in the Walton area of Felixstowe: Maidstone Road Baptist Church, Seaton Road Methodist Church and St Mary’s Anglican Church.

Lorna - 07969 901001 John - 07909 888703 Wendy - 07925 255223 contactus@waltonpn.org.uk www.waltonpn.org.uk

Positive Pals Positive Pals is a friendly, self help group based in Felixstowe for those suffering with ME (Myalgic Encephalopathy/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and Fibromyalgia and their carers. Although based in Felixstowe we welcome members from across the Felixstowe peninsular. We currently meet once a month in the local community centre where we enjoy a good chat over tea/coffee with the occasional invited speaker or outing. Because we are all in the same health situation we can offer genuine understanding, support and a listening ear for those in need or just a friendly chat over drinks.

01394 279840 info@positivepals.org www.positivepals.org Felixstowe Opportunity Group Felixstowe Opportunity Group is a local charity which was founded in Trimley in 1990 by a dedicated group of mums with children with special educational needs.

Our main aim is to advance the education and development of babies and children with special needs and to support their siblings and their families.

Groups & Clubs Felixstowe Society Chairman - Jan Garfield chairman@felixstowesociety.org www.felixstowesociety.org Felixstowe Walkers Join us for a healthy walk amidst wonderful scenery. All walks start at 10.30am (unless otherwise stated) and last for about one hour. www.felixstowesociety.org Kirton and Trimley Community Action Group fb: @KirtonLandGrab 07725 837518 contact@kirtontrimleycag.com www.kirtontrimleycag.com Old Felixstowe Community Association Pauline Varden 01394 278105 secretary@oldfelixstoweca.org.uk www.oldfelixstoweca..uk Felixstowe Bridge Club

oppgroup@btinternet.co.uk 01394286399 fb: @FelixstoweOpportunityGroup Felixstowe Household Waste Recycling Centre Closes on Wednesdays, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Carr Road, IP11 3UT www.greensuffolk.org/recycling/HWRC/ felixstowe-hwrc/ To report fly tipping: 01473 433000 environmental.health@ipswich.gov.uk 01473 432099 recycling@ipswich.gov.uk Citizens Advice Bureau We provide free, confidential and impartial advice and campaign on big issues affecting people’s lives. Our goal is to help everyone find a way forward, whatever problem they face.

0333 358 3970 www.felixstowecab.org.uk

We are a small, friendly club that meets on Tuesday afternoons at the Suffolk & Felixstowe Bowls Club. The club is situated between Platters Road and St Edmunds Road.

You might like to contact the Club Secretary in advance. Please come along and join us. You will be made very welcome.

01473 727537 www.bridgewebs.com/felixstowe/ Felixstowe Scribblers Formed around forty years ago, our Writers Circle is based in Felixstowe, Suffolk. Meetings are held at The Room at the Top in Felixstowe Library, normally on the first and third Tuesday of each month commencing at 7.30pm and finishing by 10.00pm.

Check the weblog for details of meetings.

Due to the implementation of room hire charges, membership fees now apply.

There is an annual fee of £25.

07976931811 barry.darnell@ntlworld.com The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

77

Felixstowe Photographic Society

The society has been established since 1948 for the advancement of Photography as an Art and a Science through the mutual assistance and friendly criticism between its members. The society welcomes anyone who has an interest in photography, where we provide a friendly atmosphere combining monthly and annual competitions with guest speakers, members’ workshops and demonstrations.

U3A East Suffolk The University of the Third Age (U3A) in East Suffolk is a thriving cooperative offering educational, recreational and social activities for its members, who are in their ‘third age’ — the time after they have finished working full-time or raising a family and have the time and opportunity to pursue their interests or try something new. Most members are located in the south-eastern area of Suffolk including Ipswich, Felixstowe, Woodbridge, Saxmundham, and surrounding towns and villages.

Secretary on 0300 123 3913 www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk Deben Flower Club

info@felixstowephotographic.org.uk www.felixstowephotographic.org.uk Felixstowe Old Peoples Welfare Association (F.O.P.W.A.) The Senior Citizens Centre

An “open house” to the over 60’s - both resident and visitors to Felixstowe. It is not a Club, so you don’t have to “join” or pay a membership fee, to be able to come in.

It is provided as a haven for Senior Citizens to rest, have some tea/coffee or other light refreshments, meet or make new friends, use our Wi-Fi facility or just sit quietly in the company of others. Come by yourself or with someone else and stay for a few minutes or a few hours. We do not provide any medical or respite care services.

78

Flower arranging clubs and societies joined together in 1959 and formed the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) with help and advice from the Royal Horticultural Society.

The Association has been a unifying and guiding influence to thousands of men, women and juniors whose love of flowers has opened up a new world of creativity.

Sue Cooper secretary.nafaseast@gmail.com 01406 370243 Church Hall, Rectory Lane, Kirton, Ipswich IP10 0PU www.nafas.org.uk

We have tried to create the atmosphere of a friendly and welcoming lounge - so no organised activities.

The Felixstowe Master Mariners The object of the Club is to maintain and foster, locally, social and professional comradeship amongst Master Mariners, and to afford the opportunity for discussion of matters nautical and general interest, to sponsor selected projects of special nautical interest, and, for that purpose, to meet regularly at luncheon or dinner, at a place selected by the Committee.

01394 278061 richolland1@btinternet.com http://fopwa.onesuffolk.net/senior-citizenscentre/

Secretary Tim Thompson secretary@mastermariners.uk mastermariners.uk

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Felixstowe and District Horticultural Society

For Children & Youth Kirton and Falkenham Parent and Toddler Group £1.50 per family.

Kirton Church Hall 07807 983119 fb: @Kandftoddlers Trimley Tots

Caroll Wallace - Secretary 01394 272695 info@felixstowehorticultural.co.uk http://felixstowedistricths.onesuffolk.net/ Speakers of Felixstowe A club dedicated to helping people improve their confidence and enhance their speaking skills.

Keith - Secretary 01728 604174 www.felixstowespeakers.org.uk Felixstowe Conservative Club Membership, snooker, BT Sports & SKY Sports, music, bingo, Quiz Nights, pool, poker, bowls, bridge and whist, darts, function room hire.

28 High Road West, IP11 9JB 01394 282633 info@felixstoweconservativeclub.org.uk www.felixstoweconservativeclub.org.uk The Felixstowe Area “N” Gauge Model Railway Group

Everyone has a lovely time and the children look forward to coming. Also there is the opportunity to form friendships between the parents so everyone gets to know one another. We look forward to the future and pray that this important part of our outreach continues.

St Mary’s Church Centre 07969 901001 lorna@waltonpn.org.uk Felixstowe Nursery School Felixstowe Nursery School is a small private nursery taking children from two to five years. It has been in its present location since 1987. During this time we have seen hundreds of happy children pass through our care.

Ambulance Hall, Ataka Road, IP11 9DH 01394 213732 info@felixstowenursery.co.uk www.felixstowenursery.co.uk Old Felixstowe Nursery We aim to enable children to realise their full potential in every aspect of learning and development through stimulating play within a friendly, happy and caring environment.

The group is essentially a gathering of likeminded modellers, with the aims of sharing ideas and information, and the opportunity to combine skills on larger projects.

01394 277211 www.felixstowengauge.org.uk

At Old Felixstowe Nursery we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality pre-school education available. As a long established nursery we are very well resourced and have experienced preschool/nursery nurses who will work closely with your child. We encourage each individual child to be the best they can be.

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

79

Old Felixstowe Nursery The Grounds of Kingsfleet School Ferry Road, IP11 9LY 01394 275466 oldfelixstowenursery@btinternet.com www.oldfelixstowenursery.onesuffolk.net/ Felixstowe Twins Club 94 Maidstone Road, IP11, UK felixstowe.twin.club@gmail.com www.twinsclub.co.uk Little Hoppers 01394 286998 07504984768 littlehoppers@live.co.uk www.little-hoppers.co.uk The Oaks Nursery We are located in The Oaks Children’s Centre in Grange Road, Felixstowe. Our nurturing ‘home from home’ environment is carefully designed to encourage children to learn independently in a safe, secure environment that promotes equality and values diversity.We provide all meals and promote healthy eating.

Our cook prepares a healthy home cooked lunch for the children using fresh ingredients.

01394 694752 info.oaksfelixstowe@alpha-nurseries.co.uk Twinkle Toes Pre-School Our aim is to provide a caring and safe environment where each child can express themselves as an individual.

07763 816224 twinkletoespreschool.weebly.com/ Little Kickers

It’s an approach that has bagged us numerous awards and helped us expand globally over the last 12 years. And like all our Kickers, we never stop learning. We’re continually improving and updating our classes, based on feedback and input from child health specialists as well as our network of over 1,500 football coaches worldwide.

Brakenbury Sports Centre, High Rd E, IP11 9JF 01394 200327 cwest@littlekickers.co.uk 80

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

St Andrew’s Pre-School We are a committee run pre-school offering high quality sessional childcare for children from 2 - school age.

St Andrews Church Hall, St Andrews Rd, IP11 7EB manager.standrews.preschool@gmail.com secretary.standrews.preschool@gmail.com 01394 278326 or 07815200925 www.standrewspreschoolfelixstowe.co.uk Tiddlywinks Day Nursery At Tiddlywinks we work from the early years foundation stage (EYFS) which is a statutory framework that sets the standards for learning, development and care for children from birth to five. We operate out of two buildings one which is on the ground floor of the house with two play rooms, toileting area and main kitchen which make up the main nursery for children aged 2 to 4 years.

108 High Road, Trimley St Mary, IP11 0SU 01394 274130 tiddlywinksdaynursery@hotmail.com Fairfield Infant School and Colneis Junior School Our staff and governors work hard to make sure that the two schools work together to nurture, challenge and inspire all our children to give and achieve their best both now and in the future. We are very proud of all our children’s success and delighted to celebrate the steps they take during their time with us.

We value the support of parents as our partners in children’s education and we aim to work with you to provide the best possible education for the children at Fairfield and Colneis.

Fairlfield: 01394 283206 fairfieldoffice@fairfieldandcolneis.co.uk Colneis: 01394 284052 colneisoffice@fairfieldandcolneis.co.uk www.colneisjunior.co.uk Maidstone Infant School A warm welcome to Maidstone Infant School and Nursery! Here we want children to be secure, happy and to learn. This is important if they are to benefit and achieve during their learning journey.

01394 283375 maidstoneadmin@maidstoneandcauston.org www.maidstoneinfants.org.uk/pages/

Trimley St Mary Primary School Situated in the village of Trimley St Mary on the outskirts of Felixstowe. Our larger than average community school dates back to 1904 and has grown as the village has grown with a strong sense of belonging care and support.

Our school is a friendly and welcoming setting, fostering strong community links, which works closely with families and other agencies to support all children to achieve and be successful in their own right.

01394 284130 office@trimley.net http://trimley.net/ Langer Playgroup

Colneis Girl Guides Colneis Division consists of two districts; Felixstowe and Walton, and Orwell and Deben.

We have a brand new division headquarters in Felixstowe which is within walking distance of all the local amenities. Within our Division we have a Division Ranger unit, 4 Guide units, 7 Brownie units and 5 Rainbow units. http://girlguidingsuffolk.org.uk/contact-us/ 356 (Felixstowe) Squadron - Air Cadets One of the best, if not the best, Youth Organisation in Felixstowe. Lots of things going on and lots of opportunities to take part in. Have a look at our Facebook page for updates on some of our recent activities and pictures. You don’t have to join the Royal Air Force or go flying if you don’t want to! We have a lot going on, so I’m sure you’ll find something that will challenge you!

Carr Road, IP11 2TP 01394 673419 www.356atc.co.uk 7th Felixstowe Scout Group

St Edmund’s Hall, Langer Road, IP11 2HL 07961 825637 or 01394277966 07961825637 langerplaygroup@gmail.com The Play Pit We are a privately owned nursery and maintain the highest of childcare standards which include the National Guidelines.

01394 276005 penny.conway@theplaypit.com susan.spaulding@theplaypit.com www.theplaypit.com Felixstowe Academy We have a clear vision for the Academy and believe very much in developing each and every one of our students so that they can achieve their true potential. We provide the opportunities for success; we develop in our students the skills that they will need in the future; we help them develop as individuals but emphasise their place within the community, helping them to think about and care for others; we guide our students to enable them to become independent learners and good team members.

We are one of four groups in Felixstowe but we are the only group with outdoor space which we use for traditional scouting skills. The group is well founded and offers scouting for children from the age of six to fourteen when they have to move on to an Explorer Unit. www.7thfelixstowescouts.org.uk Felixstowe Sea Scouts 07590 019593 stevepocock1066@yahoo.co.uk fb: @felixstoweseascouts

01394 288228 office@felixstoweacademy.org www.felixstoweacademy.org The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

81

Churches Churches Together in Felixstowe

Felixstowe URC Church 51 Orwell Road, IP11 7NZ 07563 767537 www.felixstoweurc.org.uk St Mary’s Church Walton High St, Felixstowe IP11 9DS 01394 670090 www.stmaryswalton.org.uk St Andrews Church St Andrews Road, IP11 7EB 01394 670940 St Peter & St Paul Church

Its strength comes through people from different traditions finding new ways to work and worship together. We come together for a few events each year, as well as supporting each other in prayer throughout the year. churchestogetherfelixstowe.org St John’s Church Orwell Road, IP11 7PW 07814 949828 Christ Church Grange Farm Ave, IP11 2XD 01394 282204 www.christchurchfelixstowe.org.uk Trinity Methodist Church 26 Hamilton Road, IP11 7AN 01394 275047 www.trinity-methodist-church-felixstowe.co.uk Bethesda Baptist Church Cavendish Road, IP11 2AR 01394 270187 www.bethesdafelixstowe.com Felixstowe United Reformed Church 47 Orwell Road, IP11 7NY 01473 214206 www.felixstoweurc.org.uk Seaton Road Methodist Church Seaton Road, IP11 9BT 01394 282023 www.seatonroad.org.uk River of Life Church 2 Carr Road, IP11 2FS 01394 273700 riveroflifechurch.net Maidstone Road Baptist Church 18 Maidstone Road, IP11 9ED 01394 276774 www.mrbcfelixstowe.org.uk 82

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Church Road, IP11 9NF 01394 670940 www.oldfelixstoweparish.org.uk Temple of Light 28 Beach Road West, IP11 2BQ 07886 534931 www.templeoflightfelixstowe.com Ranelagh Road Christian Fellowship Ranelagh Road, Felixstowe IP11 7HA 01394 284439 www.ranelaghfellowship.org.uk Convent of Jesus & Mary 63 Orwell Road, IP11 7PP 01394 282386 www.stjosephsrjm.com Saint Edmund’s Church Langer Road, IP11 2HR 07814 949828 St Felix Catholic Church 8 Gainsborough Road, IP11 7HT 01394 282561 https://stfelixfelixstowe.uk/ Trimley Free Church 182 High Road, Trimley St Mary, IP11 0SS 01394 276171 Trimley Methodist Church High Road, Trimley St Martin, IP11 0RL 01394 282023 https://eangliamethodist.org.uk/trimley

Festivals, Events & Markets Art on the Prom

style clothing. With vintage DJ, pop-up cafe and an exhibition of clothing, fashion accessories. You can also participate in sewing and crafting workshops with a vintage feel by employing wonderful teachers.

For website support and tickets: support@festivaloffabric.co.uk Festival enquiries: Amanda Bowden amanda_bowden18@hotmail.com 07787 981 493 www.festivaloffabric.co.uk

info@artontheprom.org 01394 671033 info@artontheprom.org www.artontheprom.org

The Ipswich to Felixstowe Car Rally Up to 500 vehicles can participate in the event, starting in Christchurch Park, Ipswich.

The vehicles make a 10-mile (16 km) journey to the promenade of Felixstowe, where they line up and remain there for a large part of the day. Traditionally held on the first Sunday in May, the vehicles assemble in Christchurch Park at Ipswich from 8.30 to 10.30am, then start to leave for Felixstowe at 11.00am, where they are displayed along the promenade during the afternoon (from about 12pm onwards).

Suffolk Open Studios Suffolk Open Studios is a collaborative organisation run by artists for artists and art lovers.

Felixstowe in Flower

Art on the Prom is one of Felixstowe’s largest free community event organised by a small group of volunteers. We are grateful to them and our sponsors for their backing.

If you would like to be part of the great team that helps to make this event such a success, please contact us at:

Ipswich Transport Museum enquiries@ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk www.ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk

www.suffolkopenstudios.org Felixstowe Carnival General Enquiries: contact@felixstowecarnival.org Procession Enquiries: procession@felixstowecarnival.org To provide entertainment: entertainment@felixstowecarnival.org Stallholder enquiries: traders@felixstowecarnival.org To volunteer: volunteer@felixstowecarnival.org www.felixstowecarnival.org Trimley Carnival trimleycarnival@mail.com fb: Trimley Carnival www.trimleycarnival.co.uk Festival of Fabric Bringing together specialist retailers with a love for and expertise in fabric, haberdashery, dressmaking, knitting and sewing patterns, vintage sewing machines, knitting and crochet accoutrements all under one roof.

Shop for anything needed to make vintage

A festival for the whole community in transforming the town with flowers each summer. Whether by entering one of the floral competitions (which include gardens, floral containers, commercial premises, residential homes, public houses, hotel and guest houses, tallest sunflower, or school-led projects such as painting, grow-bags and environmental displays), or by sponsoring floral baskets or prizes, Felixstowe in Flower encourages people of all ages to care for their environment. sue.faversham@felixstowe.gov.uk The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

83

Rob’s Spiritual Awareness A non-profit for good causes. Series of events held monthly with healers and stall holders robert.lummis@ntlworld.com Bart’s Bash

Community Markets and Table-Top Sales Drop in to our Community Markets for bargains and refreshments, on the second Saturday of each month. All markets are in the Community Centre, 10am to 12pm, admission is free. www.oldfelixstoweca.org.uk 01394 278105 secretary@oldfelixstoweca.org.uk

A global sailing race taking place at 100s of venues, with 1000s of sailors in 100s of different classes of boat around the world. Known as ‘The Largest Sailing Race in the World’, the Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club invite you to be part of this. Open to all sailing clubs, yacht clubs, schools, universities, scout groups, sea cadets, windsurfing clubs, individuals and any venue globally. Bart’s Bash gives the sailing community a united opportunity to remember Andrew ‘Bart’ Simpson, a double Olympic medallist who tragically lost his life whilst training for the America’s Cup in 2013. www.bartsbash.com Felixstowe Book Festival Now going into our fifth year, Felixstowe Book Festival has become one of the highlights of the East Anglian Arts Calendar.

Meg - Festival Director meg@megreid.co.uk 01394 279783 www.felixstowebookfestival.co.uk

Christmas Tree Festival As well as seeing a display of decorated Christmas trees from various charities and organisations, you can browse charity stalls.

The Christmas Tree Festival opening includes a short Carol Service. Refreshments will be available each day.

Salvation Army Church Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL www.felixsa.org.uk www.christmastreefestivals.org/felixstowe/ Christmas Lights Switch on Event With children’s parade, music, and so much more, this event is organised by the Felixstowe Lions Club. fb: @lionsclubfelixstowe Christmas Craft Market With a variety of stalls full of local crafts with that special festive spirit.

To book a stall please contact Sarah: felixstowechristmasmarket@gmail.com Christmas Day Dip

Mannings Sunday Market Felixstowe’s well-established Sunday Market with a variety of stalls.

1 Platters Rd, Felixstowe IP11 2DL For pitch enquiries call Marian: 07901 962322 www.manningsamusements.co.uk Felixstowe Country Market A wide range of preserves, garden produce, homebakes and crafts up for sale. All goods are home made to the highest standards.

Tea and coffee also available. Every Friday morning between 10am and 11am.

Felixstowe Trades & Labour Club 182 High Road West, IP11 9BB 01394 282108 ftalc@outlook.com www.ftalc.co.uk 84

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Are you brave enough to take the plunge?

Join us and hundreds of fabulous supporters on Felixstowe Seafront on Christmas Day morning. In aid of St Elizabeth Hospice it takes place on Felixstowe sea front on 25th December at 10am. It’s fun, a great way to start your day and importantly helps us care for patients 365 days of the year.

Tickets are priced at just £13 until registration closes. See website for details. We all meet on Felixstowe sea front in front of Mannings Amusements. stelizabethhospice.org.uk/christmas-day-dip/

Hall Hire

Sports

Old Felixstowe Community Centre Ferry Road, IP11 9NB 07494 599265 www.oldfelixstoweca.org.uk

Felixstowe Leisure Centre Community sports and leisure hub with soft-play area, indoor bowling green and swimming pools.

St Marys Church Hall 1 Cage Lane, IP11 9BH 01394 670090 www.stmaryswalton.org.uk

75 Undercliff Road West, IP11 2AE 01394 694600 www.placesleisure.org/centres/felixstoweleisure-centre/

Felixstowe Town Hall Undercliff Road West, IP11 2AG 01394 282086 www.felixstowe.gov.uk

Brackenbury Sports Centre Our classes are social, fun and a really good workout. They range from low impact to the more intense and guide you through every step with our fantastic instructors. You can enjoy it with a friend or meet new people each week.

Conservative Club 01394 282633 info@felixstoweconservativeclub.org.uk www.felixstoweconservativeclub.org.uk St Edmund’s Parish Hall Langer Road, IP11 2HN 07814 949828 Felixstowe Trades & Labour Club 182 High Road West, IP11 9BB 01394 282108 www.ftalc.co.uk

High Road East, IP11 9JF 01394 270278 www.placesleisure.org/centres/brackenbury-sports-centre/centre-activities/ classes/ Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club

Seaton Road Methodist Church Seaton Road, IP11 9BT 01394 282023 www.seatonroad.org.uk St John’s Church, Felixstowe Orwell Road, IP11 7PW 07814 949828 Trinity Methodist Church 26 Hamilton Road, IP11 7AN 01394 275047 www.trinity-methodist-church-felixstowe.co.uk

A friendly and relaxed environment.

Felixstowe has a thriving and welcoming indoor bowls club situated on the first floor of the Felixstowe leisure centre. Competitive bowling for ladies and men takes place during the day and in the evenings.

Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club Ferry Road, IP11 9RZ 01394 283785 https://ffsc.co.uk/

Felixstowe Leisure Centre Undercliff Road West, IP11 2AE 01394 694600 www.felixstoweibc.com

White Horse Pub 33 Church Road, Old Felixstowe, IP11 9NF 01394 277496 bookings@thewhitehorse-felixstowe.co.uk www.thewhitehorse-felixstowe.co.uk

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

85

Felixstowe Rifle Club

Felixstowe Walkers Join us for a healthy walk amidst wonderful scenery. All walks start at 10.30am (unless otherwise stated) and last for about one hour. The Felixstowe Walkers are part of The Felixstowe Society and regular walkers will be expected to become members of the society. Annual membership is £7, or £10 for two adults at the same address.

Details of membership send a SAE to: Hilary Eaton, Treasurer 102c, Queens Road, IP11 7PG felixstowewalkers@hotmail.co.uk

The club was formed in around 1900 as the Felixstowe Rifle Club and used the Army Ranges at Landguard Common (now part of the nature reserve). During World War 2 it became Felixstowe Home Guard Rifle Club. At that time it used the present site with the permission of Mr Clement-Smith and the Drill Hall in Garrison Lane. In 1955 the title was changed back to Felixstowe Rifle Club (FRC) which was the beginning of the club as it is today.

Felixstowe Rifle Club High Street, IP11 9UB 01394 283974 www.felixstowe-rifle-club.co.uk Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club The only links golf course in Suffolk and one of only 246 true links courses in the World. secretary@felixstowegolf.Co.Uk andrew.Robinsonpga@yahoo.Co.Uk Ferry Road, ​IP11 9RY 01394 286834 www.felixstowegolf.co.uk Felixstowe Lawn Tennis Club For all abilities, ages & aspirations We have 9 grass courts available during the summer season and 9 floodlit courts (3 acrylic, 3 macadam and 3 artificial grass) for play throughout the year, all overlooked by a spacious clubhouse. We offer a number of regular club sessions for members, including Tuesday evenings (6:30pm) and Sunday mornings (10am).The club has mens, ladies and mixed teams in the Suffolk league, A Friday Night League for all ages and abilities and runs an extensive coaching program for adults and juniors.

37 Bath Road, IP11 7JN 01394 282940 https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/felixstowe lawntennisclub 86

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Felixstowe Runners We are a friendly local running club with about 200 members in Felixstowe and surrounding areas. We welcome new members of all standards. We organise three road races each year – the Kirton 5 mile (part of the Friday Five series), the Coastal 10 (a 10 mile race along the seafront in Felixstowe) and the Martlesham 10K. In addition we have many less formal events in and around Felixstowe. We also have a very active junior section, meeting on Wednesday evenings.

Chairman: chairman@frr.org.uk http://frr.org.uk/ U3A The University of the Third Age (U3A) in East Suffolk is a thriving cooperative offering educational, recreational and social activities for its members, who are in their ‘third age’.

Contact us on information about our sports activities and membership.

0300 123 3913 admin@u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk https://www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk/ Felixstowe & Walton United Football Club Felixstowe & Walton United are a semi-professional football club playing in the Isthmian Bostik North Division, which is level Four of the National Football League.

4A Dellwood Avenue, IP11 9HT 01394 282627 President: Dave Ashford 07850 618940 dave@dhashford.co.uk www.felixstowefootball.co.uk Felixstowe & Corinthians Cricket Club Dellwood Avenue, IP11 9HT 07738 199152 / 01473 781963 rjones@suffolkcricket.org https://fandc.play-cricket.com/

Felixstowe Rugby Coronation Sports Ground Mill Lane, IP11 2LN 01394 270150 www.felixstowerufc.co.uk Felixstowe Hockey Club

Medical Grove Medical Centre Grove Road, IP11 9GA 01394 283197 www.grovemcfelixstowe.nhs.uk Walton Surgery 301 High Street, IP11 9QL 01394 278844 felixstowe.suffolkgeneralpractice.co.uk Felixstowe Community Hospital Constable Road, IP11 7HT 01394 458820 Howard House Surgery 31 Orwell Road, IP11 7DD 01394 282706 www.howardhousesurgery.co.uk

A friendly club that welcomes players of all ages and abilities. We have been established as a club in the coastal town of Felixstowe since 1905 (3 years before hockey was introduced as a sport into the Olympic Games in 1908). The club plays all of its matches on all-weather pitches, with home games being played at the Felixstowe Academy (Maidstone Campus) in Felixstowe.

Felixstowe Community Hub Maidstone Road, IP11 9EF www.felixstowehockeyclub.co.uk Felixstowe Badminton Club The club has two men’s teams, two mixed teams and a ladies’ team in the Ipswich & District Badminton League.

07788 233063 clarehazelwood@hotmail.co.uk Brackenbury Sports Centre, High Road East, Felixstowe, IP11 9JF.

Haven Heath Grange Farm Avenue, IP11 2XD 01394 670107 www.havenhealth.nhs.uk Orwell Clinic (iCaSH Suffolk) The family planning center in Ipswich also serving Felixstowe.

Lindbergh Road, Ipswich, IP3 9QX 0300 300 3030 www.icash.nhs.uk East of England Coop Pharmacy 189 Hamilton Road, IP11 7DT 01394 282325 Hado Pharmacy 135 Hamilton Road, IP11 7BL 01394 286277 NHS 111 NHS 111 is much more than a helpline – if you’re worried about an urgent medical concern, you can call 111 to speak to a fully trained adviser. Depending on the situation, the NHS 111 team can connect you to a nurse, emergency dentist or even a GP, and can arrange face-to-face appointments if they think you need one. NHS 111 advisers can also assess if you need an ambulance and send one immediately if necessary.

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

87

Felixstowe’s Community App FELIXSTOWE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

EVENTS & DIRECTORY A DIRECTORY OF ALL KINDS OF EVENTS AND COMMUNITY LISTINGS OF LOCAL GROUPS AND ORGANISATIONS

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS DOZENS OF EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES TO HELP YOU IN THESE DIFFICULT TIMES AND ENCOURAGE YOU TO SUPPORT LOCAL.

ADVERTISING A POWERFUL AND AFFORDABLE WAY TO ADVERTISE TO THE TOWN, INCLUDING ADVERTORIALS AND PUSH NOTIFICATIONS TO APP USERS!

DOWNLOAD TODAY 88

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

What’s On in Felixstowe FELIXSTOWE’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE EVENT GUIDE IN PRINT DUE TO COVID-19, PLEASE ENQUIRE BEFORE ATTENDING

Mondays

A V A GO Art Group

Felixstowe Community Choir

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club 7am-10pm (Mon-Fri) Felixstowe Leisure Centre 01394 694600 Parent & Toddler Group (term-time only) 10am-11.30am Parents/carers enjoy a chat whilst the children play together. There are organised activities for the children, drinks and biscuits.

Salvation Army, Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL. 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk Felixstowe Old People’s Welfare Association 10am-4pm (Mon - Fri) At Senior Citizens Centre Broadway House Orwell Road 01394 278061 BASIC Pop-Up Shops @11am - 12noon Trimley Welcome Hall, 182 High Road, Trimley St Mary, IP11 0SS. And every second and last Monday at 7pm at Christchurch, Felixstowe.

Visitors simply buy a bag for £1 (a maximum of 2) and help themselves. There are absolutely NO questions or qualifications - simple.

Everybody is welcome.

01394 276171.

1.30-4.30pm For pros and amateurs.

Refreshments incl. £2.

St Edmunds Hall Langer Road 01394 275690 Arts Award & Young Dreamers (term-time only) 6-9pm Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

7pm At the Orwell Hotel Hamilton Road £4p/p on the door felixstowecommunitychoir.org.uk Ballroom Dance Class 7-9pm Beginners and intermediate dance classes. £10 per couple.

Trimley St Martin Memorial Hall 01394 282285 07801 933173

Tuesdays

The Felixstowe Master Mariners

Bridge Club

6.45-10pm Rubber Bridge Partners.

Broadway House Orwell Road Call Ron on 01394 277085

(every third Tuesday) A luncheon meeting at Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club. secretary@mastermariners.uk www.mastermariners.uk The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

89

Look-out! Prayer meeting 9-10am Morning prayer meeting at the hall (in the Lounge).

All welcome.

Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk Felixstowe Opportunity Group

Felixstowe and District Horticultural Society

Baby & Toddler Group (Term time only) 10-11.45am £1 per family at the United Reformed Church.

Deben Flower Club (Second Tuesday of the month) Kirton Church Hall. £4.

448415/ 286626.

(Every second Tuesday) £2 for guests Old Felixstowe Community Centre 01394 284647

Dance Lessons

Oasis Café

9.30am-12pm For children from birth and for their siblings. £1.50.

Maidstone Campus of the Academy 01394 286399 www.facebook.com/FelixstoweOpportunityGroupFog Lunch’n’Munch 10am-2pm Light refreshments and lunches served to members of the public by a team of supported volunteers. All welcome.

Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

90

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

10am-3pm (Tuesday-Friday) We serve freshly ground coffee, tea, soft drinks, cakes, afternoon tea, scones, snacks, and light lunches. Serving quite possibly the best cheese scone in Felixstowe!

Affordable prices and plenty of room for buggies and pushchairs. Our cafe is run by a team of volunteers from across our church and community.

For info, contact Hilary our Cafe Manager Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

Children’s and adult beginners and intermediate.

St. Edmund’s Hall Langer Road 07757 217456 Community Cafe

(Tues, Thurs and Friday) 10am-3pm Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

Knit and Natter at Crafty Coffee

10am-12noon Take along any project you are working on and meet others in a sociable environment. All welcome!

Drinks and cakes available.

Admission free.

(Note - not running during school holidays.)

1B Hamilton Road IP11 7AX 01394 270224 BASIC Pop-Up Shops

The Felixstowe Area Social Club for Retired Persons

(2nd Tuesday of each month) 2pm Old Felixstowe Community Centre, Ferry Road. Call Stephen or Carol Cox on 01394 809794.

Cuppa Book Club (1st Tuesday monthly) @7pm Cuppa, 81 High Road West IP11 9AA. Run in conjunction with the Felixstowe Book Festival, the Cuppa Book Club will focus on authors attending the Festival in 2020. Admission free. Refreshments available to purchase. 01394 279783. felixstowebookfestival.co.uk.

Felixstowe Scribblers @7.30pm ‘The Room at the Top’, Felixstowe Library, Crescent Road IP11 7BY. Long established writers’ group that was formed over 40 years ago. A variety of homework assignments are set to be read out at the following meeting, with feedback provided. New members welcome. Annual fee of £30, or £5 per meeting. Refreshments.

Felixstowe Harmonies 7.30-9.30pm (during school term) Seaton Road Methodist Church IP11 9BT felixstowe.harmonies@gmail.com. felixstoweharmonies.co.uk t: @FelixstoweChoir fb: @felixstoweharmonies Anglo Scottish Dancing

Orwell Connections Choir 7.15pm The Choir started in 1986, we are a happy friendly group of singers, to enjoy singing together and to perform charity concerts. Come and join us, no auditions required.

The Convent, 63 Orwell Road.

07570 110660 orwellconnectionschoir@gmail.com @11am - 12noon Saint Phillips Church Hall, Felixstowe, IP11 2LP. Visitors simply buy a bag for £1 (a maximum of 2) and help themselves. There are absolutely NO questions or qualifications - simple.

Everybody is welcome.

01394 670090 - St Philips

Ladies Fellowship 7.30pm This Christian-based fellowship meets under the leadership of Bev De’Asha on the second Tuesday of every month.

Women of any age or faith are made welcome to the wide range of activities.

Salvation Army, Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL, 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk. felixsa.org.uk.

7.30-9.30pm £3 per session (first one free).

Term starts 10th Jan throughout year excluding school holidays.

Contact Libby Wragg 01473 721270 Trinity Methodist Church Hall 26 Hamilton Road IP11 7AN

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

91

Wednesdays

Oasis Café 10am-1pm We serve freshly ground coffee, tea, soft drinks, cakes, afternoon tea, scones, snacks, and light lunches. Serving quite possibly the best cheese scone in Felixstowe!

Affordable prices and plenty of room for buggies and pushchairs. Our cafe is run by a team of volunteers from across our church and community.

For info, contact Hilary our Cafe Manager Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk Pushchair Pitstop

Friends Together

Coffee Morning

1.30-3pm Friends Together meet weekly from 1.30 for tea and coffee, with guest speakers or other activities starting at 2pm. We offer a varied programme, which includes Christian music and a Christian “thought” in every meeting. Men and women of any age are most welcome to attend.

Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk Street Dance

(Every third Wednesday) 11.30am-2.30pm Pop in for a free coffee and a cake. Nappy change and a natter. Bring and take baby and toddler clothing toys and more. Everything is FREE! St Edmund’s Church Langer Road Contact Penny on 07901 950768.

92

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Thursdays

10-11.30am An opportunity to have a chat over coffee and cake.

Christine Gage organises these sessions, and is always looking for volunteers to help serve or bake a cake.

Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk English Language Classes for ladies 10am-12noon (term-time) Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk Felixstowe Twins Club

6.30-7.30pm For 9-16 years old. £4.

Brackenbury Sports Centre.

07549130959 justjaydance.co.uk Variations Choir @7.15-9pm The Function Room Conservative Club 28 High Road West IP11 9JB 01394 276478

10am-12noon Felixstowe Academy, Maidstone Road IP11 9EF felixstowetwinsclub.co.uk

BASIC Pop-Up Shops @11am - 12noon St Peter & St Paul’s Church, Church Road, Felixstowe IP11 9NF. Visitors simply buy a bag for £1 (a maximum of 2) and help themselves. There are absolutely NO questions or qualifications - simple.

Everybody is welcome.

01394 670940.

Felixstowe Opportunity Group

1-3pm For children from birth and for their siblings. £1.50.

Maidstone Campus of the Academy 01394 286399 fb: FelixstoweOpportunityGroupFog Kirton and Falkenham Parent and Toddler Group

1-3pm £1.50 per family.

Kirton Church Hall 3 Church Lane Kirton IP10 0PU 07742 227877

Noah’s Ark

2-3pm (2nd Thursday of the month) Informal time of singing and story time for pre-school children Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk Over 50’s Walking Football in Felixstowe

6.30-7.45pm Each session is £3 payable to Brackenbury. If you are interested, all you need is a pair of trainers, jogging/ sports bottoms. In winter this group plays under floodlights.

New members to groups are welcome Brackenbury Sports Centre High Road East IP11 9JF 01394 270278 Felixstowe Con Club Bridge Club 7-10pm Playing rubber and duplicate on alternative weeks. Tuition can be made available for those interested.

Call Don on 01394 282959

Speakers of Felixstowe

(2nd Thursday of the month) 7.30pm A warm welcome awaits.

Landguard Room Marlborough Hotel The Felixstowe Area ‘N’ Gauge Model Railway Group 7.30pm

Great St. Farm High Road Trimley St. Mary 01394 277211 felixstowengauge.org.uk Photographic Society 7.30pm

All welcome. FREE. Broadway House, Orwell Road.

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

93

Felixstowe Fit Club

8.15pm-9.30pm Fun activities to help you lead a healthy active lifestyle. Your 1st week is free!

Then only £1 each week.

St Philips Church Hall Wadgate Road IP11 2LP www.felixstowefitclub.co.uk or call/text Jamma on 07850214463

Fridays

Felixstowe Country Market

Baby & Toddler Group (Term time only) 10-11.45am A relaxed group for mothers, parents and carers with babies and toddlers. £1 per family.

United Reformed Church 47 Orwell Road IP11 7NY Stories in the Middle

10.15-10.45am Story time with songs and crafts for pre-school. Free.

Felixstowe Library Crescent Road 01394 694880

Get Active Stay Fit

1.30-2.30pm Low impact exercise to music for over 50’s Old Felixstowe Community Centre 01473 620511 Chair Based Exercise 2.45-3.45pm Increase mobility and strength Old Felixstowe Community Centre 01473 620511 Strength and Balance Class

Positive Pals

9.30-11am Homemade preserves, eggs, garden produce and crafts.

Trades and Labour Club High Road West 01394 272003 www.country-markets.co.uk Songs and Rhymes for Babies and Tots 9.30-10am and 11.30am-12noon Free but ticketed.

Felixstowe Library Crescent Road 01394 694880

94

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

(last Friday of the month) 10-30am-12.30pm An ME and Fibromyalgia self help and support group.

A friendly, welcoming group.

Felixstowe Community Centre Ferry Road Contact Liz or David 01394 279840 info@positivepals.org

4-5pm Old Felixstowe Community Centre.

01473 620511

Salsa & Latin Class

Saturdays

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club

Felixstowe Old People’s Welfare Association 9.30am-12.30pm Pop in for a cuppa. Meet old and new friends and relax.

Senior Citizens Centre Broadway House Orwell Road 01394 278061 Saturday Market

6pm-7pm (Beginners) 7.15pm-8pm (Intermediates) Get fit dance. Our new beginners Salsa & Latin classes. We’ll start with Salsa and Argentine. No partner required. £4p/person.

Old Felixstowe Community Centre Ferry Road IP11 9NB 07807464655

8am-8pm (Sat & Sun) Felixstowe Leisure Centre 75 Undercliff Road West IP11 2AE 01394 694600 Baby Ballroom Lesson 9am £3 St. Edmunds Church Hall Langer Road 07757217456 Parkrun

10am-12noon (every second Saturday exc.

June). Raffle, cake, jewellery, and more. Free entry.

Felixstowe Community Centre Ferry Road Café

Rob’s Spiritual Awareness Centre

(First Friday of the month) @7-10pm Open to all faiths, denominations and beliefs. £2.

Trimley Welcome Hall Trimley High Street robert.lummis@ntlworld.com

9am Felixstowe Prom (meet at the Pier) A 5km timed run, register once online before you run.

Open to all. Free entry. www.parkrun.org/felixstowe

10am-11.30am (1st Saturday of the month) Come and share time together over bacon/cake/ hot drinks.

Salvation Army.

Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

95

Scrapbooking Club Saturday

(2nd Saturday of month) 10am-4pm A crafting club.

Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

Prayer Meeting 10am Salvation Army.

Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk Morning Worship and Sunday School 10.30am Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk Litter-Pick with Litter-Free Felixstowe

Sundays

Evening Worship 5.30 pm Tea and coffee are served after both worship services.

Salvation Army.

Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

Dance Classes

10-11am 4-7year olds: Ballet and modern dance.

11am-12pm 8-12 year olds: modern and street dance class. £5p/person.

Brackenbury Sports Centre High Road East 01394 270278

96

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

11.30am-1pm This group was created to ensure we tackle the issues of litter across the town to ensure that no plastic waste ends up in the sea. It is a local response to the global crisis in our oceans - we want to protect wildlife and the entire Eco-system. We want to act as a community and inspire everyone including residents, visitors, businesses, shipping lines and hauliers to take action. We will be organising litter-picks to include beaches, parks, woodland & hedgerows and grass verges.

Let’s make Felixstowe the UK’s first Litter-Free town - let’s do this together. Various locals.

Join our facebook group for details:@Litter-free Felixstowe

Felixstowe Sunday Market 9am Manning’s Amusements Sea Road IP11 2DN Sunday Lunch with

The Felixstowe Area Social Club for Retired Persons (bi-monthly) 2pm New members welcome.

Old Felixstowe Community Centre, Ferry Road

Call Stephen or Carol Cox

01394 809794 Jazz East at The Alex 8-10.30pm The Alex 123 Undercliff Road West www.jazzeast.vpweb.co.uk.

Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that event details are correct, please check with the organisers when attending for the first time.

With thanks to Visit Felixstowe and all organisations for their event information.

To submit an event for the magazine email us at: info@thefelixstowemagazine.com.

PROMOTE

YOUR EVENT

HERE

CONTACT US 07929 979 073 thefelixstowemagazine.com The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

97

WIN A MEAL FOR TWO

129-133 HAMILTON ROAD FELIXSTOWE, IP11 7BN

FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A DELICIOUS MEAL FOR TWO WITH A DRINK EACH AT PREZZO, ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:

01394 672588

Why is it called a Policeman’s Boiled Fruit Cake?

Email your answer by 30th December 2021 to: info@thefelixstowemagazine.com

PREZZORESTAURANTS.CO.UK

WIN A MEAL Bombay Nite FOR TWO For a chance to win a delicious two-course meal for two at the famous Bombay Nite, simply answer this question: What is the light sleep statecalled that bees do in the winter?

Email your answer, full name and phone number to: info@thefelixstowemagazine.com. Closing date is December 30th 2021. Winner will be notified by email.

285 High Street, Walton, IP11 9DZ

01394 272 131 01394 270 136 www.bombaynite.co.uk 15% off All Takeaways

Not including drinks and not applicable on Friday or Saturdays. * THE ELUSIVE ANSWERS FOR EACH COMPETITION QUESTION ARE SOMEWHERE IN THIS ISSUE OF THE MAGAZINE - SO READ THOROUGHLY... *

Where in Felixstowe

1

2 98

3 The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

4

QUIZ QUESTIONS 1. What is the most common colour of toilet paper in France?

2. If you dug a hole through the centre of the earth starting from Wellington in New Zealand, which European country would you end up in?

3. Henry VIII introduced which tax in England in 1535?

4. What is the correct term for a question mark immediately followed by an exclamation mark?

11. French artist Aquabouse paints cows with what material?

12. In 1978 an Iowa judge dismissed a drink driving charge for what obscure reason?

13. In which country are there six villages called Silly, 12 called Billy, and two called Pratt?

14. Native to the Caribbean, what sort of animal is the mountain chicken?

15. What nickname was given to Rembrandt’s The Night Watch after being over-restored in the 1940s?

16. True or false: You can sneeze in your sleep 17. Who invented the word vomit?

5. The average person does what thirteen times a day?

18. Which European country has 158 verses to its national anthem?

6. Coprastastaphobia is the fear of what?

19. Which country has the most tornadoes by area?

7. What were the first ice hockey pucks made out of?

20. What is Scooby Doo’s full name?

8. It’s illegal in Texas to put what on your neighbour’s Cow?

21. What is the collective noun for a group of unicorns?

9. Which bird is nicknamed The Laughing Jackass?

22. Where was the fortune cookie invented?

10. Who entered a contest to find his own look-alike and came 3rd?

23. What is the cross between a donkey and a zebra known as?

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

99

WALK IN THE PARK 7 A man pushes his car to a hotel and tells the owner he’s bankrupt. Why?

6

9

9

2

7

2

3

1

2

8 1

3

8

7

4

6

5 8

2

3

4

7 9

7

3

5

5

2

2 7

1

9

6

4

1sudoku.com

n° 15247 - Level Easy

SO SO...

2021 Joke Did you hear about the cheese factory that exploded in France? There was nothing left but de Brie.

Answers Quiz Answers 1. Pink 2. Spain 3. A beard tax 4. Interrobang 5. Laughs 6. Constipation 7. Frozen cow dung 8. Grafitti 9. Kookaburra 10. Charlie Chaplin 11. Cow dung 12. Too drunk to sample 13. France

14. Frog 15. The Day Watch 16. False 17. William Shakespeare 18. Greece 19. England 20. Scoobert Doo 21. A blessing 22. San Francisco 23. Zeedonk

Where in Felixstowe 1. Trees at Trimley Marshes 2. Cannon at bottom of Garrison Lane 3. Forecourt statue at Harvest House 4. Mini golf on Seafront

5 6

8 7 7 3 2

7 9 3 3 6

5

8 5 1 6 3 3 9 2

1 1sudoku.com 1sudoku.com

9

8 9

4 6 5

5 8 7 2

7

1

4 6 8

1 1 6

3 9

1

7 9 8 4 5 2 8 9

8 4

3 9 9

6 4 6 6 9

2

7 6 2 3

n° 215509 - Level Medium n° 116776 - Level Easy

TOUGH AS NAILS! 4 8 7 9

6 6 2

5

3 6

7 7 8 2

8

Play these sudoku puzzles on your mobile and find their solutions by flash n° 15247

5

7

2 8

7

1

5

7 4

7 4

9

3

n° 116776

4 5 7

9 8

Page 1/1 - Check the solutions, print more sudoku puzzles for free

3 6

100 The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021 1sudoku.com

1sudoku.com

5

9

Brainteaser: He’s playing Monopoly

n° 128265

8 3

8 9 7 2

7 5 1

3 8 1

9 3 5 5

1 9 7 8 8

2

n° 52478 - Level Evil

n° 28309 - Level Medium

NOW YOU CAN GET EVEN MORE GREAT NEWS A N D OFFERS STRAIGHT TO Y O U R D O O R !

The

The perfect on-the-coffee-table or pop-it-inyour-bag sized seasonal magazine bringing you quality news, features, an abundance of local discounts, a comprehensive list of events and so much more!

2021

FELIXSTOWE

Have the convenience of getting your very own annual copy of The Felixstowe Magazine straight to your door. Simply subscribe using the form below or giving us a call.

MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO THE GEMS OF FELIXSTOWE DURING COVID-19

DOWNLOAD THE FELIXSTOWE APP FOR REGULAR GOOD NEWS IN FELIXSTOWE

For just £5 (plus £2 P&P) per year not only do you have a huge variety of exclusive offers from Felixstowe businesses SAVING YOU LITERALLY HUNDREDS OF POUNDS, but you also get all the latest news and hundreds of event listings so you don’t miss out on the great things Felixstowe has to offer.

£5

1

‘‘

At the heart of the community

So grab a pen, complete and send the form below with your payment, or give us a call and we’ll set your subscription up over the phone.

Have a question?

No problem, drop us an email: info@thefelixstowemagazine.com

POSTED STRAIGHT TO YOUR DOOR ORDER YOUR 2021 EDITION NOW

£5 ONLY (+ P&P)

ORDER BY PHONE TO ORDER YOUR COPY, SIMPLY GO ONLINE TODAY OR GIVE US A CALL:

thefelixstowemagazine.com 07929 979 073 The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

101

COMMUNITY INDEX TOWN COUNCIL & POLITICS

71

TRANSPORTATION

73

BUSINESS DIRECTORY App The Felixstowe App............Inside front cover Butchers SJ Summers......................................................7 Carpenter & Joiner

MUSEUMS & THEATRE

73

Turners Carpentry & Joinery..........................7 Electrician

ART & PERFORMANCE

74

P.A.H. Electrical...............................................7 Exclusive Offers

CHARITIES & SUPPORT

75

The Felixstowe App......................................88 Exhibition

GROUPS & CLUBS

77

142 Gallery....................................................14 Foot Care

FOR CHILDREN & YOUTH

79

Ooh! Sore Feet?............................................37 Funeral Services

CHURCHES

82

Gordon Rodwell Funeral Service................59 Human Rights Education

FESTIVALS, EVENTS & MARKETS

83

Youth for Human Rights................................27 Plumbing & Heating Turners Plumbing & Heating..........................7

HALL HIRE

85 Restaurant Bombay Nite.................................................98

SPORTS

85

MEDICAL

87

Prezzo.............................................................98 Skip Hire

102 The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

Cooks Waste Kare Ltd..................................37

A GET GREAT LOCAL MAG STRAIGHT TO YOUR DOOR OR ON YOUR PHONE WITH OUT APP!

2021

E W O T S X I L E F INE

The

Z A G MA ATED DEDIC

TO THE

GEMS

OF F

WE ELIXSTO

ID-19

G COV

DURIN

£5

1

P FOR STOWE APSTOWE D THE FELIX DOWNLOA GOOD NEWS IN FELIX R LA REGU

The perfect on-the-coffee-table or pop-it-in-your-bag sized annual magazine

To purchase a copy simply go to: www.thefelixstowemagazine.com OR DOWNLOAD THE APP

The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

103

Every year...

BRINGING YOU THE BEST OF OUR TOWN

- O N LY W I T H THE FELIXSTOWE MAGAZINE W W W. T H E F E L I X S T O W E M A G A Z I N E . C O M W W W. T H E F E L I X S T O W E A P P. C O M SUBSCRIBE NOW

ISSN 2632-2552

9

772632

255004

104 The Felixstowe Magazine - 2021

01