Christmas Charity Magazine - Dec 2017

LOCAL HEROES CELEBRATING THE REAL LOCAL GEMS

CHRISTMAS CHARITY MAGAZINE 2017

EDITOR’S NOTE In every corner of the world there are unsung heroes who make a real difference to our community. The purpose of this special charity magazine is to dedicate our pages to some of our favourite local activities, people and groups that have selflessly given their time and skill to make a little difference. As we come closer to Christmas and the spirit of giving, I consider it an honour to showcase these incredible groups and individuals.

I would personally like to thank our advertisers and supporters who have sponsored pages to assist the production of this magazine. Without them we would not be able to celebrate these brilliant people on the level that we, at Birdy Publications, believe they deserve. So a huge thank you to our sponsors.

As we move closer to a new year, you might find these articles inspiring and perhaps they will motivate you to do something a little special to help others.

No matter how small or large the gesture, the ability, willingness and action to help another is the most valuable thing we can do.

On behalf of all of us at Birdy Publications, I wish you a wonderful Christmas season and an incredible beginning to your 2018.

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info@birdypublications.com

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Birdy Publications @birdypubs

Publisher: Birdy Publications Ltd. Copyright owned by 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.

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Sunil winning Coach of the Year Award and meeting Princess Anne

An incredible charity based on inclusion, passion and empowerment PACE is a voluntary organisation promoting the inclusion of young disabled people in sports and leisure activities.

Lekh Raj (father), Sunil and Krishna (mother and founder of PACE)

Established in June 2004, PACE aims to use a wide range of fully inclusive and adapted multi-sports and leisure activities as a means of challenging social exclusion and isolation, experienced by many young disabled people when they leave school. PACE also aims to develop skills such as confidence, communication, co-ordination, strength, self-expectation, social-skills, life-skills and experiences to empower members and give them greater control over their lives.

The charity believes sport and physical activity programmes should be available to all, regardless of ability levels and by adapting activities, members can participate in any one of them.

The charity aims to act as a resource for disabled children and young people by

More Boccia players

Reshad Saraj wins Boccia England athlete of the year award

PACE members and coaches, with family and friends

Ramandeep Mann - Bronze in the Heathcoat cup

Reshad, Sunil and Alex

PACE CHARITABLE TRUST providing advice and assistance, and organising programmes of physical, educational and other activities.

The charity provides opportunities for members to complete accredited training courses, such as Community Sports Leadership Awards (CSLA), First Aid, Safeguarding and Deaf Awareness courses.

As well as this, the charity provides opportunities for members to complete accredited coaching courses, such as FA Level 1 & 2, UK Athletics Level 1, Boccia Leaders Award, Adapting Sport and Physical Activity Award.

The vision of PACE is to see a world where disabled people have the same opportunities as everybody else.

Everybody has a right to live their life as they wish, without being limited by other people’s judgements, prejudices or expectations. PACE would like to see a society where people with disabilites

have the right to access education and training, providing them with skills, qualifications and experiences, just as much as non-disabled people. PACE would like to see more disabled people being provided with opportunities to develop their skills and lead independent lives.

Disabled people have the right to exercise their choice and control over all the decisions that affect their lives, who they want to see, where they want to go and what they want to do. PACE would like to see a society where disabled people have more control over these decisions, where their opinions are listened to and valued.

To find out more about PACE, contact: Krishna Birdy Project Coordinator and Trustee Tel: 07930 748 280 Email:Â krishna@pacezone.org.uk www.pacezone.org.uk

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REMEMBERING CHRISTMAS PAST I’m Caroline Putus. I live near Felixstowe, and my business partner, Elizabeth Aldridge, and I help you turn your family stories into a beautiful keepsake book.

We’ve been recalling our 60s childhood Christmases. It was my job to dress the Christmas tree: coloured lights with bulbs like torpedoes, silver lametta, fragile glass baubles. Do you remember Angel Hair, a strange, prickly substance a bit like cobwebs? It was made of glass fibre: no wonder it was prickly!

So many Christmas memories: delving into my rustling Christmas stocking full of

Local writers present a wonderful gift idea for your family to treasure pink and white sugar mice, tangerines, and little tin toys; dancing to the Beatles’ latest EP; dad in a party hat doing the washing up with a cigar in his mouth; charades and murder in the dark; cracking nuts in front of the open fire.

Christmases shared with grandparents, great aunts, cousins, aunties and uncles, many of them gone now.

Our grown up children still like to hear about those long-ago family Christmases, and that’s why Elizabeth and I started Family Stories: so that your family stories will never be forgotten. How will your Christmases be remembered? And who will remember them? Memories and pictures fade, so if you’d like a chat about how to pass on your own family stories for future generations, give us a call on 01394 448787 (Caroline) or 01473 214853 (Elizabeth) You can also visit us online at: www.myfamilystories.co.uk

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NOW HERE’S AN IDEA FOR A CHRISTMAS PRESENT! Christmas is a time for families to get together. Aunties and uncles, grandmas and grandpas, parents, children: it’s a time for the generations to have fun, chat, listen to all the family stories and reminisce over a festive glass or two. It seems like these family stories and memories will always be there. And yet, memories are so fragile and they fade with time. Suffolk based Family Stories solves the problem.

Run by friends Caroline Putus and Elizabeth Aldridge, Family Stories helps you tell your special stories and keep them safe in beautiful keepsake books that make unique presents.

84 year old George Madgwick from Felixstowe is so glad he told his story.

George says, “I always wanted to tell my life story but I thought, who would be interested in the life of George Madgwick? Well, it turns out my story has been a best seller! I started off ordering just three Family Stories books and because so many of my friends and family wanted one of their own,

I ended up with 20 books. I think around 150 people have seen and read them. My grandchildren’s partners all said they wish their grandparents had got books done too, and my kids said they’re so good I should have given them as Christmas presents.”

“It’s a great comfort to me to know, at my age, that my stories of my mum and dad, my childhood, my businesses, and my family life will never be forgotten. That’s why I called my book “Remember Me”. Caroline was so friendly and made telling my stories easy for me. I couldn’t be more pleased with my books. I wrote about things like swinging from lamp posts, pranks and being naughty, as well as my pirate ancestor and my philosophy in life. My books bring it all back to me and I’m so pleased my children and grandchildren love them, too. I gave them straight away: I couldn’t wait for Christmas!”

Contact Caroline on 07742 22 1115 or Elizabeth on 01473 214853 for an informal chat about your special family stories, or visit www.myfamilystories.co.uk 7

G N TI ’S ICE

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“So much fun for all the family.

Come and enjoy some ice skating this Christmas!”

The synthetic rink is provided by Felixstowe Town Council and sponsored by the East of England Cooperative.

Grand opening by the Mayor of Felixstowe on Wednesday 20th December at 11am.

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There will also be rides for smaller children and stalls serving food and drinks.

Great Eastern Square, Hamilton Road, Felixstowe.

Admission free (including free skating).

01394 282086. www.felixstowe.gov.uk

BASIC LIFE CHARITY For most of us Christmas is an exciting time but we know for others it can be a lonely, painful time. Thankfully, as always, the community look after each other and once again we’re so pleased to be able to provide presents to those who might need to know that they are loved by their neighbours.

Our shoe box appeal is going really well and we’ve received a whole mountain of boxes ready to pass on. The boxes cover all ages and we’re sure they will make a massive difference in somebody’s life.

There’s still time to fill one if you haven’t already.

We ask that the boxes are filled with small gifts which can be passed on – we love the idea of including a picture from a child.

In addition, if the appropriate sex/age of the recipient can be marked on the outside of the box we can make sure it goes to the right person.

In November we wrote to fifteen nursing, care and retirement homes in and around our town and asked if the managers could advise how many people in their care would be alone and unlikely to receive visitors. We are sure we can make Christmas 2017 a special one for them.

A brilliant local charity, providing financial, practical and general support We’ve teamed up with Felixstowe Lions and will have a stall on the Triangle on 2nd December where we will be collecting seasonal food for our Christmas sacks.

Funds raised from the stall holders on the same day in Hamilton Road will also come to BASIC to enable us to offer more support to local people in the year to come. A special thanks to Sharon Iannuzzi and Sarah Gooch for their part in this.

Pop-up Shops We were delighted to see so many people visiting our new pop-up shop at Trimley Free Church which is held every Monday at 11am. We’re hoping to build a real community there so if you want to take advantage of the food at just £1 a bag or even just want to make new friends why not give it a go! Our other two pop-up’s are offering Christmas meals to customers – both taking place 19th December.

We wish you a happy and peaceful Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

All at BASIC. 9

BOXING DAY WALK FOR CANCER A dedicated husband, Ian Grimshaw raising money in memory of his beloved wife, who he lost to cancer Tell us about why you did your Boxing Day Walk I lost my lovely wife, Juliet in October 2015, after initially being treated for gall stones in August. When the pain had worsened, Juliet was admitted to A&E in mid August.

When we were told Juliet was suffering with cancer we were knocked sideways, but we were given hope by being told there was lots that could be done. Sadly, just two days later, we were told that all that could be done for Juliet was to be made as comfortable and as pain-free as possible in the time she had left.

Juliet was then admitted to Somersham Ward where her care was second to none. Like most people, I had no idea that Somersham Ward relied on charitable donations to raise money for specialist equipment and giving extra care to patients. Juliet’s wish was to pass away at St Elizabeth’s Hospice but, because the end came so quickly, Juliet was too ill to be transferred.

Juliet lost her short, but brave battle against cancer and passed away on 8th October 2015.

I decided, then, that I would do what I could to raise funds for Somersham Ward Support Group to enable them to continue to do the great work they do.

The walk was just the first event. In the near future I hope to organise a charity quiz night, coffee mornings and, hopefully,

Stuart (left) and Ian (right) arriving at Somersham Ward

a charity football match all in aid of Somersham Ward Support Group.

Can you share the experience of the walk?

It was 10am on a bright, but extremely windy Boxing Day morning. Juliet’s brother, Stuart Gosling, did the walk with me. We were dropped off at The Ferry Boat Inn by Stuart’s wife, Liz and daughter, Emma. Our goal was to walk from Felixstowe Ferry to Somersham Ward in Ipswich Hospital, in memory of my wife and to raise funds for Somersham Ward Support Group, who cared for Juliet during her final days.

We set off along the sea wall – against the wind! We ascended the steps at Brackenbury and the temptation to quit when we reached the top was almost overwhelming! But in no time at all we reach The Orwell Hotel.

Our walk took us up through the Trimley’s. At Station Road, Liz and Emma appeared with their friends, Sue and Charlotte, who brandished warm mince pies and brandy. Although we passed on the brandy, the warm mince pies were gratefully received.

At the entrance to Goslings Farm, a former Walton Surgery colleague of Juliet’s welcomed us with her husband.

They emerged from their car, two shot glasses were produced and home brewed “sloe whiskey’ was poured in each one. Gratefully, we drank and the warmth it gave us was immediately felt.

“Take the bottle!” we were told. Simple kindness often means the most!

After following the A14, the Levington Road was the longest and most boring leg of the walk. Emma decided she would walk with us for a while at this point, which was a great help to us as we laughed about the games we played on Christmas Day. Stuart’s son, Charles, appeared and more encouragement was gratefully received. We reached the end of Levington Road to join Felixstowe Road. A three-seater settee had been dumped in the undergrowth and the temptation to put our feet up had to be ignored!

In no time we reach the Sheppard & Dog and a weight was lifted as we realised we were close to the end.

At St Augustine’s and Stuart’s old mate Dave Hollis, joined us and walked as far as Foxhall roundabout. As Dave left us, Molly appeared to joins us for the last leg.

At 1.30pm, we finally arrived at our goal!

It took us three and a half hours, just under thirteen miles, and the elation we felt masked the aching bones and blisters.

We took a quick photo at Somersham Ward but didn’t want to hang around as it’s a busy ward and their patients are much more important than two middleaged men with a point to prove.

Special thanks are due to the following for their help in raising sponsorship money and their support: Café Nero, Hamilton Road Felixstowe Scissor Trix, Hamilton Road Felixstowe Walton Surgery, Felixstowe The Grove Surgery, Felixstowe.

Well done Ian! Somersham Ward Support Group really is a fantastic charity.

They provide equipment and home comforts for their patients and rely on charity donations to allow them to do the remarkable job they do.

Please take a look at their website to catch up on all the good they do and make a donation www.somershamward supportgroup.org.uk.

CANCER CARE WITH BRENDA SHELLEY Here’s a little insight into Brenda’s life Before retirement, Brenda Shelley taught in a local high school and was also an associate lecturer with the Open University. After such a busy working life, she wanted to find some meaningful voluntary work to occupy her retirement years.

Her love for the NHS and her experience as a carer led her to work in Ipswich Hospital in the Cancer Information Centre. She now works there, meeting patients and their carers and providing them with both a listening ear and resources.

In addition to her work in the centre, Brenda is an accredited tutor on two Macmillan HOPE (Help Overcoming Problems Effectively) courses: one for patients and one for carers.

The patients’ course, which is for people who have completed their treatment, helps patients to develop skills so that they can move on and accept a new ‘normality’. There are sessions on fatigue, sleeplessness, diet, exercise, body image, communication, mindfulness, relaxation and visualisation exercises. Participants find this very helpful, to meet other patients and to share experiences. The carers’ course also provides an opportunity for carers to come together and talk about their experience and allows them to develop skills to deal with the stresses and strains involved in such caring.

The Information Centre also offers a wide variety of activities for anyone affected by cancer such as art workshops and a book group, which are open to both patients and carers.

One lady who Brenda has helped is Eileen.

Endured two bouts of cancer, on each occasion the centre has been a huge support for her personally and physically. It took a while for her to cross over that threshold to get help, however, when she finally made the decision, she was overwhelmed by the friendliness and indiscriminate kindness she received. To her, the centre is now part of her family; the volunteers, the staff and fellow patients all have each other to learn from, to confide in and to sometimes simply just have a cuppa with. As well as the 12

incredible HOPE course, which turned her life around, there are also complementary therapies like reiki, counselling and some forms of massage.

There’s also the ever popular Book Group run by Brenda. Many cancer patients find their memory and focus suffer due to the illness and also the chemotherapy, so the Book Group is a great help to improve these abilities. Eileen says it’s helped her hugely.

For those of you who are worried about your own treatment, who don’t know who to talk to, who don’t know what to talk about in regard to your treatment, or perhaps you are a friend or family member of a cancer patient, Eileen has this to say to you, “I really do encourage you to pop in to the centre and meet Brenda and the staff there. They are truly magnificent people and I certainly would never be where I am today if it wasn’t for them. The people here have accepted me into their hearts. It’s a sanctuary here and once you step over the threshold, you’ll find friends for life.”

Matthew and Rosemary

A BEARDED HERO From hairy to hairless, owner of Goodchild’s Heating raises money for motor neuron disease Matthew Goodchild decided to take a year out and go travelling to Asia, New Zealand and Australia. Before he left one of his friends challenged him to grow his beard until he came home. He accepted the challenge and as his aunty, Rosemary Garrod, suffers from the disease, Matthew decided to do this while raising money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. Smashing his target of £1000, Matthew organised a charity beard-shave-off night to raise even more money. It was a very successful night that also turned into a head shave as well!

De-hairing begins!

The start of the de-bearding was quite emotional and the whole evening was a big success. A big well done to Matt! www.mndassociation.org An epic result!

Image courtesy of alexjamesphoto.com

MAKING TRACKS FOR DRUG-FREE WORLD Biker and drugs educator, Stewart Cambridge, has combined his two passions by having his motorbike decorated with the colours and insignia of Foundation for a Drug-Free World, an award-winning, international organisation devoted to drug education and awareness.

The motorbike made its debut when Stewart unveiled it, fully kitted-out, at his favourite racetrack, the world famous East Anglian racetrack at Snetterton.

He explained how Foundation for a DrugFree World supplies teaching aide materials to educators for free, a campaign called The Truth About Drugs which gives the raw information on what drugs do, covering 14

each key drug specifically and containing frank interviews with ex-users. These are the materials that were used in the 15-strong marathon team, running the 600-mile Marathon for a Drug-Free UK tour. The multi-marathon travelled from Brighton to Edinburgh with Big Brother runnerup, Adam Kelly, stopped off in schools, colleges, community groups and police stations, to give talks and free educator’s kits. Stewart hopes to use his motorbike to reach youth and get the message out about drug awareness. “The bike attracts so much attention. So hopefully when students see it parked up in their school it will pique interest.

Down-to-earth knowledge about drugs is vital to raise responsibility among youth and it can be done in a way that captures imagination.�

Joining in on the creativity are the likes of musicians Dave Press and The Elias Brothers, with their street gig. Pictured here are members of Foundation for a Drug-Free World, general public, friends and business people, uniting to bring a creative touch to drug awareness and make a difference in their area. With public signing up to pledge a drug-free life, booklet distribution and facepainting, the events are always fun and informative.

Anyone interested in drug education or who would like to get their own Truth About Drugs materials can visit the website. www.drugfreeworld.org

BLAKE AINSLEY

Meet Blake an 8 year old year old boy, but he is act

A brave little lad and his two brothers fighting a rare hereditary disease

Hereditary multiple exostoses - also known as diaphyseal aclasis, is a rare medical condition in which multiple bony spurs or lumps (bone tumours) develop on a child.

Exostoses are typically benign. However, in some instances these tumours become malignant and require frequent monitoring.

Blake has an extremely severe case of this rare 1 in 50,000 bone condition, and is prescribed oral morphine for his pain relief.

Blake’s younger siblings, Ashton aged 5 and Max aged 1, have also been diagnosed with the same illness. Treatment for all three children is ongoing and the only treatment centre is the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh. Unfortunately for Blake and his family, there is no government funding available towards travel and accommodation expenses for the 800-mile round trip.

Along with the support of Graham Denny, founder of The BASIC Life Charity, Blake and his family have been able to fundraise for travel expenses as well as raising awareness of the disease.

Blake is a real inspiration to his friends and family. Despite being in constant pain and requiring a wheelchair for long distances, he rarely feels sorry for himself and will always try his very best at anything that is asked from him. Academically, Blake is very intelligent and spends a lot of time reading and writing.

Blake is a role model to both his younger siblings, who have also been diagnosed with the disease, and his family hope that with his strength and determination to succeed, both Ashton and Max will also cope as well as Blake does.

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Blake recuperating after one of his many surgeries in Edinburgh’s Royal Hospital

If you feel you would like to the help the family please feel free to stop by the BASIC Life Charity shop to donate or visit The Basic Life Charity’s Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/BlakesAppeal/

boy who lives in Felixstowe. At first glance Blake looks like a fit and healthy eight tually suffering from a very rare debilitating bone condition.

Blake, Max and Ashton

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COULD YOU BE A BEFRIENDER?

Our sense of wellbeing can depend on many different things, but having a support network and/or people you can talk to is so important to our emotional and mental health - everyone needs a friend or friends.

The Befriending Scheme is a registered charity that works across Suffolk to provide friendship and learning opportunities for adults (16yrs+) from vulnerable groups, including those with mental health needs and older people, to our members with learning disabilities.

Below are some local people in the Felixstowe area who would love to find a volunteer befriender to enjoy mutual interests and activities, e.g. shopping, gardening, going to the cinema, a walk or just having a chat over a nice cup of tea!

C is in his late 40s. He enjoys swimming, the theatre, shows, the zoo and getting out and about. C would like to meet someone to go for a drink and a chat, possibly a day trip to the beach.

B is 18 and enjoys TV, games, movies, bowling and DVDs. B would like to meet up with someone to go around town, to the pier and generally boost confidence. B has 18

Could you be a one-to-one volunteer, offering regular support to a local person? communication difficulties so would need someone patient and understanding.

R is a man in his 90s who enjoys international news, sports and any branch of the military services. He would like to meet someone for company and a chat.

If you, or anyone you know, might be able to share a few hours a week or month to help C, B or R or another vulnerable person in your local community, please do get in touch. Full and ongoing support is given and out of pocket expenses are covered.

To find out more, please contact us: Tel: 01787 371333 Web: www.thebefriendingscheme.org.uk Email: info@thebefriendingscheme.org.uk Thank you so much, you could make a real difference to someone’s life while enriching your own.

A quick wave before he sails off again!

Next generation sailors

Our skipper for the event: Local legend Pete White, who was 505 world champion 1973 in Hong Kong

Felixstowe’s 2014 winner, Simon Rowell! Photo by Holly Brookes

BART’S BASH IS WHEN THE WORLD GOES SAILING… TOGETHER A global sailing race taking place at 100s of venues, with 1000s of sailors in 100s of different classes of boat around the world Open to all sailing clubs, yacht clubs, scout groups, sea cadets, windsurfing clubs, individuals and any venue globally that can host a race and is ecouraged to take part.

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.

The annual fundraising and participation campaign promoted by the Andrew Simpson Foundation (ASF) hit records in the Guinness World Record for largest sailing race in 24 hours with over 27,000 sailors taking to the sea!

Each individual event is organised by a venue which is the organising authority for all activities at their site.

Above are photos from previous year’s events in Felixstowe Ferry.

Find out more at www.bartsbash.com

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DECEMBEARD

Beards are taking on bowel cancer this Christmas with this innovative campaign.

Beating Bowel Cancer’s Decembeard campaign asks men to grow a beard for the month of December to raise awareness of bowel cancer and raise funds for the charity to help them support all those affected by the disease.

During their lifetime men are 35% more likely to be diagnosed with bowel cancer than women.

Decembeard is a fun campaign in aid of a very serious cause. Each year in the UK more than 40,000 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer and 16,000 each year die from the disease. But it doesn’t have to be that way because 90% of those diagnosed at an early stage can be successfully treated. That’s why awareness of the disease and its symptoms is crucial in improving survival rates and such an important part of the Decembeard campaign.

Over the last five years thousands of men around the UK have supported the campaign. The awareness it has raised has undoubtedly saved lives and the funds raised for the charity have enabled them to provide support services to a great many bowel cancer patients and their families.

Around 110 people are diagnosed with bowel cancer every day, that’s someone every 15 minutes. But thousands more people are diagnosed each year, so the charity is 20

once again asking men to become a Decembeard champion to help them harness the power of the beard.

If you’re willing to go grizzly throughout December, dye or decorate your existing face fur or hold a ‘beardy’ event in the local area, please check out Decembeard.org today and join the hairy band of brothers taking on bowel cancer beard by beard.

5 facts about beards that you might not know: • On average, a man’s beard will grow 5.5 inches per year.

• A man who shaves spends roughly 3,350 hours of his life in the bathroom.

• During the Middle Ages, anyone who touched another man’s beard was considered offensive. The act was grounds for a duel. The beard was a sign of virility and honour.

• 55% of men around the world can be seen sporting a beard or facial hair.

For more information about bowel cancer, visit: www.beatingbowelcancer.org

• Prehistoric men grew beards for three reasons: warmth, protection and intimidation.

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BE A SANTA TO A SENIOR

Nikki, Gill Bishop, and Jackie wrapping presents

With Christmas not too far away, here is a lovely concept, which you can join in on to spread the festive spirit at a time when others may not have someone to share it all with.

At-home care company, Home Instead Senior Care began this brilliant gift-giving where they joined forces with many organisations in Felixstowe including Queen’s Road Day Centre, The Salvation Army, HOPE Trust, The Hand in Hand Club, Parkinson’s Society and Age UK Suffolk, in order to identify local older people who otherwise might not receive a gift at Christmas.

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Spreading the festive spirit! will allow us to reach out to older people in our community who, perhaps, don’t receive as many visitors as our clients and who would really appreciate knowing that local people are thinking about them this Christmas.”

Home Instead also worked in partnership with Marks and Spencer in Felixstowe, who organised a ‘Be a Santa’ Christmas tree in their store last December. The tree was decorated with gift tags and included the types of gifts older people would welcome.

Generous members of the community were able to pick a gift tag and donate that particular item. Home Instead then beautifully wrapped the gifts and delivered them to older people across Felixstowe just in time for Christmas.

“We were delighted with the way in which members of the local community embraced this scheme last year, as a result we received 280 presents! I’d like to say a big thank you to Marks and Spencer in Felixstowe who have agreed to having a tree in their store again this coming Christmas, and to all the organisations involved for their help in identifying older people who may really benefit from this scheme. We really enjoy running ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’ and will strive to make it even more successful this year!”

Owner of Home Instead, Chris Lye, said, “We provide care to older people in their own homes. Our clients are assured of regular company from their caregivers but we are hoping that ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’

You too can be part of the ‘Be a Santa to a Senior’ scheme. To find how call Home Instead Senior Care in Felixstowe call on 01394 618002 or visit: www.homeinstead.co.uk/ipswich.

CHRISTMAS PARCELS The Woodbridge Lions Club has run this project for over 20 years and is one of the ways the Lions contribute to the local community. Each year they distribute up to 200 parcels of seasonal groceries to families, couples and those living alone, for whom Christmas might otherwise be just another day. The heartfelt letters and cards sent in, demonstrate how gratefully these parcels can be received, whilst the growing demand on foodbanks for day-to-day provisions speaks for the continued value of the project.

The sheer logistical challenge of the project is daunting: ordering and collecting all the groceries, assembling 200 parcels which are packed according to the needs of individuals, couples and families, then delivering across the wide geographical area supported by the Club, an area which extends from the town boundaries of Ipswich and Felixstowe to include not just Woodbridge, but also Rushmere St Andrew, Kesgrave, Wickham Market, Framlingham, Bawdsey and Orford. Although demanding, projects such as this bring the members of the Club together as everyone contributes and share a few laughs as

Another fantastic club helping those in need over Christmas the parcels are packed. The Christmas Parcels represent a significant call on our resources. Proceeds from the Martlesham road races in October will contribute and the Lions will also be raising funds via street and store collections and once again travelling around Woodbridge with Father Christmas as he makes his preliminary rounds in mid-December.

The Woodbridge Lions take a break from the fundraising and preparations with a Christmas meal, an opportunity to relax with colleagues and partners, enjoying a traditional meal, a few stories and some dreadful carol singing before the final hectic few days.

Woodbridge Lions Club 0845 8332820 secretary@woodbridgelions.org.uk www.woodbridgelions.org.uk 23

MAKE AGGY WAGGY Aggy the Lhasa Apso dog commemmorating herowner’s life with a touch of charity “My name is Aggy. I’m a Lhasa Apso dog.

My life suddenly changed this year. Until February I was living with my best friend in the world called Diane Fedida. I know she wasn’t well because she went to hospital a lot and was often sad. I tried to make her feel better.

One day I moved to a different house with different people. I was sad and my tail was down. I saw Diane one more time, she was in St Elizabeth Hospice. I was allowed onto her bed. I was so happy to see her again.

She stroked me and said ‘Goodbye’… she meant goodbye for ever. I miss her.”

Diane was well known in Felixstowe as a musician and violin teacher – many children and some adults were lucky enough to take their first steps in creating music with Diane.

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A few years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer which spread to her bones last year. She knew her cancer was terminal; she had to give up teaching and spent a lot of her time at home with me who brought her such joy in her last days.

So, I fundraised and raised awareness for Cancer Research in my own little way.

To see how visit: www.facebook.com/ makeaggywaggy and watch my video.

Cancer is devastating – not only for the person but for those around them (including their pets.) More than 1 in 3 people in the UK will develop it. Cancer Research does groundbreaking work into prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Money is needed to make these advances.

People have been amazing and my story even went national! My video and story went on Cancer Research UK Facebook page. I was also ’The Star Guest with a Tail’ at the Ipswich Race for Life; so even with my little legs I made great strides.

What’s more my tail is up and wagging again, showing there is life and hope

for those left grieving after such a loss and for those getting that dreaded diagnosis.

I would like to thank everyone who has helped me – I think my Diane would be proud and happy that such efforts have been made to help others.

WOOF!

Aggy with Diane

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FELIXSTOWE COASTWATCH EYES AND EARS ALONG THE COAST

From our lookout atop Martello Tower ‘P’ at Martello Park on the seafront, watchkeeper volunteers continually monitor the beach and inshore waters for potential hazards and signs of beach users and vessels in distress.

One of over 50 lookouts run by the National Coastwatch Institution, who now has a new patron in the Princess Royal, Felixstowe Coastwatch operates all year round with the help of about 60 dedicated local volunteers.

On a typical 4-hour shift, we use a variety of aids including high-power binoculars, vesseltracking computer systems and VHF radio equipment to identify and log commercial and leisure craft, record weather measurements and watch the beach, all while keeping one ear on five radio channels for relevant activity.

Several of our dedicated volunteers this year have worked hard to introduce two new services for users of Felixstowe beach and inshore waters. The first is a live streaming webcam, useful for beach visitors and 26

mariners alike. The second is a fullyfeatured weather station displaying both live and historical data. Both these fantastic new tools can be easily accessed from the home page of our website at http://www.coastwatch-felixstowe.co.uk/ Visit the website to read more about Felixstowe Coastwatch and the work we do to keep our beach and inshore waters safe. You will also be able to keep up-todate with our successful annual events such as our music evening, ‘Live at the Ferry!’, and the fun Quiz Night.

Finally, if you are interested in joining us as a watchkeeper, we are always on the look-out for new volunteers who are willing to work through our comprehensive training programme to become fullyfledged watchkeepers, and contribute to the safety of our lovely town.

Remember to check for the flag on the lookout atop the Martello Tower – if it’s flying, we are watching!

CHRISTMAS DINNER & STAY AT WOODHALL MANOR Enjoy fabulous food, fine wine, creative cocktails and dreamy desserts in our fabulous Ballroom complete with art deco styling, music and dancing. Grab a glass of bubbly and get ready to be transported back to the 1920s – think Flapper dresses, Hollywood glamour and fabulous feathers!

• Fabulous Roaring 1920s theme • Sparkling welcome drink • Speech from guest charity speaker • Raffle and draw • Wonderful 3-course Christmas dinner • DJ and dance • Christmas crackers and games

Thursday 7th December 2017 DINNER & DANCE

£50 +VAT

DINNER & DANCE WITH STAY & BREAKFAST

For information and bookings, call 07929 979 073 or email hello@neyuu.com

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Local lady tells her tale of dyslexia and determination to become a published author Tell us about yourself, Anna.

Seven years ago I moved from the USA to this beautiful town. Growing up with dyslexia, I’ve broken through those barriers and have become very passionate about writing books for children and working with children with similar difficulties.

What are your books about and what has inspired the stories in them?

I created the Smokey book adventure series based on my family’s pets. Smokey, who plays the lead character, is a white Welsh Mountain Pony, whose best friends are Portia and Balou. The animals have very individual characteristics - Portia is a very posh Persian Cat who knows she is beautiful and frequently gets into scrapes. Balou is a happy-go-lucky Hungarian Vizsla Dog, who is always there as a good friend to everyone. Each of the stories demonstrate the strength and support that friendship brings to a relationship. This is something that I was very aware of when working with young children as it gave them confidence and helps them to interact with one another.

The books are beautifully illustrated with new characters being brought in for the different adventures. As you enter the book you will see the portraits of Smokey, Portia and Balou, who were the inspiration for these stories and to whom the books are dedicated, in return for their love and loyalty.

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Tell us about your other work.

I have been very fortunate to have been working with the Woodbridge Macmillan Cancer Support Committee over the last year - a remarkable group of women who I feel very honored and privileged to have been able to have worked with.

I have known so many people who have died from this dreadful disease that I wanted to try and help in any possible way that I could.

ANNA LOUISE TAYLER What is your goal as an author?

I hope I can inspire people - with these stories of friendship and my achievement of publishing these stories, despite my dyslexia. No matter how difficult it was, I was determined to write them. For this reason I want children and adults to never ever give up on anything they try and aspire to do.

Do you have any books you’re particularly proud of?

I’m proud of all of my books; Smokey and the Disappearing Fish, Smokey and the Mystery of Rabbitina, and Smokey and the Secret of Christmas Magic.

Any claims to fame?

I think Smokey is the one with a claim to fame with his yellow sunglasses! He is the star and always will be in my eyes!

Where can readers find your work or contact you?

Readers can find all my work online and are more than welcome to contact me using the details below.

07934 196877 annalouisetayler@aol.com www.altayler.co.uk twitter: @smokeyadventure facebook: @smokeyadventure

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GEMMA GOODE

Photo by James Fisher courtesy of CalAid

AND PAUL GRIFFITHS

Gemma Goode and partner, Paul are just an ordinary couple from Felixstowe, but what they did is completely extraordinary.

Many people wonder how they can help refugees from Syria. Together, Gemma and Paul worked with the grassroots organization, CalAid and co-ordinated collection points in Felixstowe, where local people could donate any unwanted items of clothing and other things that will be of great use to the refugees. The couple ran donated items to the CalAid London depot.

Gemma and Paul also collected money at various locations throughout town. The money raised was used to buy the more essential items with the aim to source these from local charity shops, and so supporting more local causes.

Many donators wrote a note of support, which were distributed along with the donations and documented so people can 30

Spearheading support for refugee crisis really see their donation has made a difference.

Gemma and Paul were overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness shown by others. The mission was to provide what ever human beings has the right to - food, shelter and safety.

In total the charity CalAid raised over ÂŁ155,000! Further information on CalAid can be found on their website: www.calaid.co.uk.

Hart (right) finishing the full marathon in just over 8 hours

RUNNING SNOWDONIA In aid of a wonderful cause close to the hearts of the Birdy household, 2 Birdys ran the Snowdonian Trail Half Marathon, while their cousin all the way from California ran the Full Marathon. The challenge was to raise awareness for PACE, our featured sponsored charity in this magazine.

PACE Charitable Trust (see pages 4 & 5) is a voluntary organisation promoting the inclusion of young disabled people in sports and leisure activities. This charity is especially important to Suki, Bal and Hart as their younger cousin, Kavita suffers from cerebral palsy.

Seeing that provision in the community for disabled young people to socialize and mix with their peers was lacking, Kavita’s mother, Krishna, founded PACE. Now twelve years on, PACE is growing strong and provides that much-needed support for young people as well as parents and carers.

Suki, Hart and Bal celebrating the end of a grueling run

Suki and Bal often spent their afternoons training on Felixstowe’s seafront, while Hart ran through Yosemite mountains. Not only did the trio raise muchneeded funds for PACE, they also raised awareness on the charity and are set to run more marathons to continue to support this wonderful cause.

To find out more about PACE, contact: Krishna Birdy – Project Coordinator & Trustee Tel: 07930 748 280 Email: krishna@pacezone.org.uk www.pacezone.org.uk Couple Suki and Bal at the finish line

CAROLINE STAFFORD TURNING TRAUMA INTO TRIUMPH...

Local mum raises awareness and money for Meningitis Now Caroline Stafford ran, hobbled and crawled her way through the London Marathon to raise money and awareness for Meningitis Now. So why this charity?

In 2012, when her son was eleven she thought her son had flu, but when she tried to wake him, he was unconscious. With her partner she rushed her son to hospital to be told he had Bacterial Meningitis.

He was in intensive care for 48 hours. It was touch and go whether he’d survive. He had fits while in hospital and such a high temperature. He was on an antibiotic drip for a couple of months. After lots of love and care he was lucky enough to make a full recovery. He’s been so lucky as he’s gotten through unscathed, but there are a lot of children, adults and babies who not so lucky; with Bacterial Meningitis you can lose limbs and hearing.

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Carlonie did the marathon for those people - to support those that have battled meningitis and raise awareness so people know how to notice the signs.

Through the help of the Felixstowe Road Runners, Caroline successfully completed the London Marathon with her partner and raised over £2000 for Meningitis Now. During Caroline’s training she gained a great deal of support from locals. She also said that people told her stories of their own experience to do with meningitis - all unique and extraordinary. www.meningitisnow.org

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BRAVE THE SHAVE AND GO CLUB BALDY! 16

After recently being diagnosed with ovarian cancer, local lady, Beth Manister (above left) decided to try and make a small difference. Through stellar defiance, Beth gathered friends, family and colleagues to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, by braving the shave and joining CLUB BALDY!!!

Having raised over £7000, Beth continues to triumph over adversity with humour, courage fun and friendship.

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Pictured here are the fabulous members of Club Baldy so far: 1. Beth with friend Rodge Wingfield 2. Nephew Ritchie Hicks 3. Nephew-in-law Matt Berry 4. Nephew Dale Hicks 5. Big brother Ian Manister 6. Beth with younger brother David Manister 7. Friend Adrian Patterson 8. Friend Jools Teape 9. Nephew-in-law Sam Harden 10. MSC colleague Dave Plumpton 11. Brother-in-law Jim

12. Friend Mark Lambert 13. Friend Lee Ellis (also raised £480 for Movember) 14. Friend Bruce Read 15. Beth’s hero, 12-year old Rory Gillespie-Gardiner 16. MSC colleague Brad El Menbaoui 17. Friend Sally Harris 18. MSC colleagues Celia Petersen and Jude Rouse 19. Friend Charlie Burton 20. Friends Barry Gillespie and Carl Reddings

Help Beth raise more funds by making your donation at: justgiving.com/fundraising/beth-manister 20

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SANTA’S LITTLE HELPER An adorable story of how father and daughter express their take on Christmas giving As my children got older we grew to love Christmas for a different reason. It started one year as we passed a homeless man on the streets. We wanted to do something for him, so we bought a meal for him with a hot drink. When we had a fiver spare and it was especially bad weather, we would try to help someone. The years went on and it soon became a family joke that it was what Dad did at Christmas every once in a while.

Later we wanted to add a little mystery to how we give to those in need, so we came up with the idea of Santa’s Little Helper, Felixstowe. We wrote a simple card with a message explaining that we understood the predicament they were in and that we wanted to help. Three days before Christmas, with a Christmas card in hand, Olivia, my daughter (pictured above), lead us up the front path to a stranger’s house, knocked on the door and recited a verse that she had practiced again and again and that would become her tagline.

“Hi, I’m Santa’s Little Helper, I’ve got a present for you.”

Later, we put scratch cards into Christmas cards with a little message. We would head off to town and deliver a dozen or so through people’s doors that we thought might need a little luck over the holiday period. No signature inside or name of where it had come from apart from ‘SLH’, it all added to the magic of Christmas knowing that these people would probably chat at work or online about it and the mystery would deepen as only a select few knew what we were doing.

As we were walking through town that day with the remaining cards, Olivia picked 34

out a lady that was walking towards us.

“Give one to her”. An absolute stranger going about her Christmas shopping, which Olivia picked because she looked sad. I checked with my daughter if she was certain and she was adamant it was the lady, so quickly we rehearsed what Olivia would say and we were off chasing a lady down the street. When we caught up with the lady, I told her I was trying to teach my daughter the joy of giving at Christmas, that Olivia had picked her out of the crowd and that she had something to say to her. Olivia then went into her rehearsed line, “Hi, I’m Santa’s Little Helper, I’ve got a card for you,” handed over the card and turned to walk away. The lady’s face was a picture, full of surprise and confusion and said it was a wonderful thing to do. We walked away knowing that the surprise was inside the card. It was an amazing feeling, both of us giggling to each other and filled with an enormous sense of fulfilment. We spent the next 2 hours picking out random people to give these cards to. Best afternoon ever!

Our last ‘victim’ was an incredibly busy lady that had a face like thunder as she approached. Olivia pointed and said “Her!” I asked her if she was sure as the lady looked a bit moody. “Yes, her.” came the reply. Ok I thought to myself, this might not go well... I stopped the lady with a sincere apology, explained that Olivia had picked her out of the crowd and the lady just stared with ferocity at me. Then, slowly, she turned to Olivia and her fierce look

softened. SLH repeated her tagline and she handed over the card. We made our escape as sharply as possible and headed back to the car park to get out of the cold.

We managed to get about 300 yards away when a Christmas hustle and bustle was broken by a deafening cry of “STOP!” The lady came running over to us, tears in her eyes and declaring what a wonderful and amazing little girl Olivia was. She told Olivia that she was having the worst Christmas ever and that SLH had made her day, her week and her Christmas. She told Olivia how special she was. It was amazing, incredibly satisfying and simply PERFECT. The beam of pure happiness on our mystery lady’s face was only eclipsed by the love and joy in the eyes of Olivia.

This was our calling at Christmas time. If we are honest, after 3 years now, I think we get more from the day spent giving out Christmas cards with scratch cards in them than the people we give them to.

That day gave us the drive we needed to take SLH to the next level. The following year, (after a family consultation, seeking advice from Mandeep and talking to a number of suppliers I knew in the area) we set up a Facebook page which was anonymous where local people could nominate someone that needed a little help at Christmas, needed a pick me up after a tough time or just deserved a little treat because of what they do. It took off really well. In 2015 we probably helped about 30 families ranging from entire Christmas packages (food, drink, presents and

decorations) to a pamper session at the local hair salon for a Mum who always put others first.

We received a message from a son that was living away and was unable to see his parents due to being disabled. The mother, in her 80’s was the sole carer for his father and as getting out became more difficult, she felt more and more cut off from the rest of the world. I agreed I would take something round and wrote what I hoped would be a letter of encouragement and explained that she was still in a lot of people’s thoughts and that we cared.

As SLH and I drove up to the address, it became apparent that this was not a poor family by any stretch of the imagination. The house was set in Old Felixstowe with lovely views of the countryside and golf course.

We rang the bell, knocked on the door and waited as we could see there was someone inside. No answer. As we knew it was an old lady, we left the present on the doorstep with the card and returned home, texted the son to tell him we had delivered and that the present was outside the front door.

After a few hours we received one of the most wonderful messages of thanks from the lady explaining that we had lifted her spirits and that she truly loved our wonderful gesture. This delivery in particular reaffirmed the belief in me that it doesn’t matter what your financial status is, loneliness and depression doesn’t care. The gift we gave that evening was a potted plant and a letter from the heart. The smallest of gestures can make the world of difference to someone’s life.

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AN INSPIRING LITTLE GEM SOPHIA HEEROMA

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“You may remember our story last year about this incredible little lady. Here’s an update from Sophia’s mum” Our beautiful Sophia was born at Ipswich hospital in October 2013. Soon after birth, Sophia was diagnosed with a rare skull condition, Craniosynostosis. The condition is caused by plates in the skull joining together too early, this in turn caused bossing to her forehead and her face to bend. We were immediately transferred to Great Ormond Street for further tests. Once they had seen Sophia, we were told that the only way to correct her condition was through surgery.

However, they had more bad news. Sophia also has a rare chromosome disorder, which will give her physical and learning delays.

Sophia had her surgery in 2015 and it was a complete success. We could now concentrate on her chromosome disorder and find the help we needed. Ipswich hospital gave us amazing support and put us in contact with the Child Development Centre. They put together a team of specialists to assist with Sophia’s physical and mental development.

Whilst testing Sophia we found that she also had Global Developmental Delay and possible Autism.

We are now in 2017 and Sophia’s progress has been slow but positive. However she still has the mental age of about 9 months. She has learned to walk, climb and babble. Sophia is such a happy little girl and is very determined, every day there are small progresses and we are delighted. She started school last year at Thomas Wolsey and they have been fantastic. There she has all the help she needs to further develop. But Sophia also has fun with swimming and music therapy. All the development services are now arranged around her at her school. This has been a brilliant solution for Sophia, giving her instant help when she needs it.

Sophia and her family recently went on holiday to Spain. This was a very stressful and worrying time for us, as we had never taken her abroad before. We didn’t know what to expect, however we didn’t need to worry. Sophia loved every single minute of it. Here’s to the next one!

I have also been doing a lot of fundraising for Great Ormond Street by baking and some walking events in London, my most recent one being a 25km and 16 bridges trek with my dad. From all the events I have raised some great funds for Great Ormond Street. I’m already looking to take part in more fundraising walks next year.

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GIVE A BUG A HOME Not just limiting our charity magazine to promote only those that help our fellow homo sapiens, but spreading the love to the little guys who help to make the world go round.

This is a brilliant group doing their part to stop the decline of wildlife populations. Set up

by Dr Adrian Cooper from the Felixstowe’s Community Nature Reserve, the goal is to encourage garden, allotment or window box ownersto set aside some space, which is friendly to wildlife. The collective benefit of all that space will create a wonderful patchwork - a community nature reserve - right across the town.

Here are just 8 wildlife-friendly plants that Dr Cooper recommends we can grow to give friendly bugs a home: Barberry - Its autumn berries will be greatly appreciated by many types of small birds.

The nectar will also be appreciated by butterflies and moths.

Firethorn - Birds love the berries. Insects adore its nectar.

Foxgloves Bumblebees love foxgloves. So do many other insects and with insects, there will be birds to feed on them!

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Local group bringing wildlife to our town Thyme - These seeds are tiny! So plant with care! Beetles and invertebrates love thyme. Bees love the nectar!

Lavender - It always grows best in sunny and sheltered spots, such as the corner of a patio. In flower, they are a magnet to bees and butterflies.

Ice Plant - They are ideal if you forget to do the watering because they are drought tolerant! Their nectar is much loved by bees, hoverflies and butterflies.

Buddleja / Butterfly Bush - Moths love buddleja. Bats love to eat moths. During the day, bees and butterflies will enjoy your buddleja too.

Evening Primrose - The flowers open in the evening, hence its common name.

As such, moths will love it. Bats will want to feast on the moths.

STENNETTS COMMUNITY POP-UP CAFÉ

The lovely Andrew

On the July 9th 2015 Lisa Williama from Roseberry Cottage Enterprise Ltd, opened the doors to The Stennetts Community PopUp Café. Set in the heart of Trimley St Mary, at the Pavilion of The Trimley Red Devils Football Club, on Stennetts Park. The café is not just any normal pop-up café – it sets the bar for having community at its heart. With free parking and a playground for children this is a perfect place to relax and at the same time, support those with learning difficulties and special needs.

The ever smiling, Mot

An idea to support and welcome those with disabilities into a working environment who otherwise are housebound, really rely on such services.

The purpose is to support people to live a fulfilling and independent life. Lisa’s vision was to create a pop-up café and lunch club, which serves good food and provides work-based training and opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and people disadvantaged within the workplace, within their local community.

The model for this cafe works so well - people that come to work with Lisa become very independent and interact and participate with the community. It’s all about presence in the community and to live an ordinary life. It helps people to achieve more respect and have a valued social role.

Lisa’s father has an allotment close to the café so most of the vegetables used are fresh and organic. In winter hot lunches are made and delivered to local residents who can’t come to us.

If you are interested in having a placement in The Stennetts Community Pop-Up Café, then just contact Lisa who will be more than happy to talk to you.

Lisa’s mum, Diane Meadows, was a big inspiration to her. She used to run up a local charity called the Felixstowe Friendly Visiting Service. They’d go out once a month from April – December to do something nice, like afternoon tea or nice walks. For the elderly

Phone: 01394 671554 or email: lisa.meadows1@btinternet.com.

Victoria Hall Pavillion, Stennetts Field, Stennetts Close, Trimley St Mary.

Open 10am – 3pm Weds and Thurs facebook: Roseberry Cottage

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