Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm The practice will be closed for
practice will be closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm
Beccles Duck Race 2025 - Stay tuned!
In previous years, the Duck Race in Beccles has been fronted by youth groups in the town, with the majority of profits made being kept by the group.
Whilst the format may be a little different going forwards, the same principle will apply.
We are therefore calling out for organisations to come forward if they wish to be involved. This could be a fantastic opportunity to raise funds for your voluntary
group or school but commitment is required. Please email Helen on: events@beccles towncouncil.gov.uk for further information.
Waveney Windows
Here to serve Lowestoft and beyond!
Waveney Windows has had a presence in Homebase Lowestoft spanning the last 30 years and we were so very sorry to hear it would be closing at the end of 2024. Whilst we look for alternative showrooms, we want to reassure our customers that we will very much be continuing to serve the Lowestoft area and beyond.
Gary Slaymaker (our Design Consultant covering Lowestoft and the surrounding area) will continue to service this area, visiting customers in the comfort of their own home and guiding them through the process and pricing, just as he has done for many years.
Gary has lived in the local area for over 40 years and his in-depth knowledge of this has proven invaluable in giving customers insight and guidance as to what will look right alongside honest advice and guidance on the process and pricing. Whether you are looking for windows, doors, or conservatories, Gary will continue to be on hand to
help bring your vision to life. We hate companies which hard sell and so are grateful to have Gary in place with his professionalism and sincerity which our customers appreciate so much. He explains options and pricing in simple, clear terms so our customers have peace of mind before, during and once the project has been delivered. Thank you for your continued support and understanding. We're committed to staying your number one provider in the region, and we look forward to serving you as always!
Reliable Roofline Professionals. A family-run business with over 40 years experience 07947 320568 enquiries@eafgltd.com www.eastanglianfasciaandgutteringltd.com 208573
Doing a martial art has so many benefits
Doing a martial art has so many benefits! For children, it builds confidence and focus, teaches respect, and helps maintain their health. For adults, it's good for the mind, the body, and the spirit, with the bonus of staying fighting fit all your life!
ICENI Taekwon-do's trispiralled logo represents those three elements in our training. We help to instil a confidence and inner strength in our students for their oncoming challenges of modern day life. They learn how to fight and defend themselves, using both hands and feet, and the training makes them stronger and fitter. Training in a dojang as a large group helps release stress, and re-kindle life's energy, building
friendships and indomitable spirit.
All martial arts help with general wellbeing, physical development of strength and power, along with fitness and flexibility for all ages. It also gives an awareness of possible situations arising around you. So a correctly taught martial art helps develop a positive mind set, builds confidence, a maturity of attitude, and the capability to react with a controlled response if needed.
ICENI Taekwon-do classes are of mixed ages: Juniors, Adults & Veterans. Book a free trial in the New Year! You'll be made very welcome. To book a free trial, just visit: www.icenitaekwondo.co.uk
Bungay Primary School
The members of Bungay Primary's School Council and ASSET Arrows were invited to attend the academy's Food Summit at Hope Church, Ipswich.
The event provided a wonderful opportunity for them to learn about food sustainability, healthy eating, and the importance of supporting local food systems, and lead on social action projects in their communities! Our very own chair of governors, Mrs. Payne, also attended the event and was so proud of how well the pupils represented our school.
Gary Slaymaker
Beccles Town Council
Iceni Taekwon-do
EAST ANGLIAN FASCIA & GUTTERING LTD
Harleston Choral Society
Academy's choir of Carl Orff Carmina Burana on June 28th. See: www.harlestonchoral. org.uk for more information about HCS (and our 25th anniversary), or contact Caroline Rodbourne, via email: caroline@ rodbourne.org.uk or calling: 01986 782545 or Jo Curry, by emailing: jo.curry@sky.com or calling: 07768 544005.
Bungay Camera Club Presentation Evening 2024
Bungay Camera Club held its end of year presentation and chip supper evening at Broome Village Hall on November 23rd. This well-attended event was also the final club competition of the year, known as the 'Annual Competitions'. It's an opportunity for club members to showcase their photography skills before the club closes for the Christmas break. Each entrant is allowed to submit up to three colour print images, three monochrome print images and three projected digital images (PDIs).The images are then passed on to an accredited judge to be viewed at leisure.
The judge for this competition and evening was Mr. Mike Lloyd, a member of neighbour friendly rivals Beccles Camera Club. Mr. Lloyd made his selection of a '1st place', '2nd place', 'Highly Commended' and 'Commended' images and provided a written critique of how he came to the final placement decisions.
Mr. Lloyd commentated: "I was honoured to be asked to
judge the Annual Competitions for Bungay Camera Club. Having judged here before, I knew that I'd be seeing some varied, imaginative high quality images both printed and PDI's. There were a number of striking images making the selection of awards a difficult decision. I found looking at the club's images a rewarding experience that is likely to inspire my own photography."
Following the fish and chip supper and well-supported raffle, the presentation of club trophies and certificates took place, covering the winners of the Yearly Competitions and the Annual Competitions.
Club Chairperson Mrs. Sue Grief, proposed a show of thanks and appreciation to Mr. Lloyd for carrying out his judging duties and for taking the time (along with his wife) to attend the presentation evening. Mrs. Grief also went on to thank club members who had turned out earlier in the day to prepare the hall and then working to ensure
a successful evening. Yearly Competitions
Trophy & Certificate winners: Colour prints:
• Joint 1st Place & Trophy Winners: Peter Nixon & Andy Wilson ARPS
• 2nd Place: Ken Warne LRPS
• 3rd Place: Edward Pond Monochrome prints:
• 1st Place & Trophy Winner: Andy Wilson ARPS
• 2nd Place: Peter Nixon
• 3rd Place: David Penrose LRPS PDI's:
• 1st Place & Trophy Winner: David Penrose LRPS
• Joint 2nd Place: Adrian Muttitt & Andy Wilson ARPS
• 3rd Place: Richard Roberts Annual Competitions Trophy & Certificate winners: Colour prints:
• 1st Place & Trophy Winner: 'Jordanian Boy' by Jane Murphy LRPS
• 2nd Place: 'The Grandmaster Contemplates' by Richard Roberts
• Highly Commended: David Penrose LRPS, Andy Wilson ARPS & Jane Murphy LRPS.
• Commended Images: Peter Nixon & Andy Wilson ARPS Monochrome images:
• 1st Place & Trophy Winner: 'Tudor Tinker' by David Penrose LRPS • 2nd Place: 'Let Us Pray' by Andy Wilson ARPS
• Highly Commended: Jane Murphy LRPS & Andy Wilson ARPS
• Commended Images: Ken Warne LRPS & Adrian Muttitt PDI's:
• 1st Place & Trophy: 'Juno' by Andy Wilson ARPS
• 2nd Place: 'Graveyard' by David Penrose LRPS
• Highly Commended: Ian Anderson, Richard Roberts & Andy Wilson FRPS
• Commended Images: Pam Anderson & Adrian Muttitt Bungay Camera Club meet every 2nd and 4th Wednesday evening in the month at Broome Village Hall. Doors open at 7pm with a 7:30pm start. Whatever your photography experience, from beginner to enthusiast, a friendly welcome awaits. The first two club meetings are free before deciding to join the club. For more information and to view the club members images and the programme for 2025, visit: www.bungaycameraclub.org
David Penrose LRPS with his winning monochrome print 'Tudor Tinker'
PDI winner: 'Juno' by Andy Wilson ARPS
LOCAL SERVICES DIRECTORY
WINTER LUNCH MENU
(AVAILABLE MONDAY-FRIDAY 12PM TO 3PM - EXCLUDES SCHOOL HOLIDAYS)
2 COURSES: £15 PER PERSON • 3 COURSES: £17.95 PER PERSON
STARTERS*
- ITALIAN VEGETABLE & ORZO SOUP WITH TOASTED BREAD & BUTTER
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Dr. Wil Harvey of the Blyth River Project opened the Suffolk Wildlife Trust (SWT) Blyth Valley & Southwold Wildlife Group talk by detailing efforts made by a group of volunteers to monitor the Blyth's water quality.
He explained that Earthwatch ranks East Anglia as having the most polluted river basin in Britain.
The Blyth is contaminated by a wide range of pollutants, including natural decay, agricultural runoff, road drainage, and industrial and domestic waste. Surprisingly perhaps, flea
Harleston & District U3A
Harleston & District U3A wishes you all a very happy New Year!
We'd like to invite you to the first of our 2025 monthly talks, on January 15th 2025 at 2pm, in St. John's Church, Harleston.
Trevor Scott (our Vice Chair) will be speaking about 'The English Windmill': The history of windmills, windmills in art, and their decline, restoration and conservation. Visitors are welcome, admission is £3, including refreshments. More information about this and all Harleston & District U3A's activities is on: harleston. u3asite.uk or you can contact Kim Poulton: 01986 788149.
treatments for pets are a serious addition.
Volunteers regularly test water at multiple sites, both upstream and downstream of the Halesworth sewage works. E-coli levels render the river unsafe for swimming, with much higher pollution downstream, where aging and insufficient infrastructure worsens the problem, and sewage outflow from Halesworth and Southwold adds significantly to the river's flow.
While there are efforts to reduce phosphate levels, reliance on storm overflows raises concerns about further degradation. The Project continues to monitor the river, hold Anglian Water accountable, and highlight these critical issues.
In the second part of the evening, Alan Miller (who retired from the Suffolk Wildlife Trust just as the Covid lockdowns struck) came up with a plan. He
invited Wenhaston villagers to record their garden birds, and send him their details. This was so enthusiastically supported, that he broadened the scope to include all forms of wildlife.
18-months later, the audit that resulted gave invaluable information, and the various local wildlife groups worked together to improve the local biodiversity. They have recorded over 80 "significant" trees, which are now on the database in Ipswich. They have planted over 13,000 trees so far; worked with local landowners to restore hedgerows and ponds; created wildflower corridors, and hedgehog highways, and last year started the 'Wilder Garden Trail', which will be open again next year. It was exciting to see how much can be achieved when a village works together, and good to know that volunteers can provide such important local knowledge.
Our next talk will be at
a different venue (due to maintenance work). We will be at the Reydon Sports & Community Centre, Wangford Road, Reydon, IP18 6PA, on January 9th, at 7:30pm. Simon Thompson will give an illustrated talk on the 'Birds of North Carolina'. Entrance is £4 to include refreshments, under 25's are free, and everyone is welcome.
For more information, email: swtblythvalley@gmail.com
Penny Mansfield
MALINDI CARE SERVICES
MALINDI CARE SERVICES
Meadow a couple of years ago will get a copse of new life at its base. Come and help plant these trees on the Green on the mornings of January 22nd and 29th. Get in touch for details on: thegreen@ halesworth.net or ring Nicky: 07715 047391. We provide gloves and tools, you just need to bring a drink and nibble for a break. For general information about the Green, have a browse on our website: millenniumgreen.halesworth.net Last but not least, White
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Halesworth Millennium Green
SWT - Blyth Valley & Southwold Wildlife Group
Aerial view of the River Blyth, between Walberswick and Southwold Bridge. We're hoping to have an informal celebratory gathering at the Bridge once it's
Suffolk Singers
strike a chord for charity this January
Once again, Suffolk Singers were thrilled to receive such a great reception from a healthy audience at their Autumn Joy Concert in mid November.
St. Michael's Church in Framlingham were very pleased to have been at the centre of this memorable occasion as music from the 16th-20th century was enjoyed in the brilliant acoustics of this great building. Our most fondly respected and talented Musical Director, Claire Weston, not only meticulously prepared us but also treated the audience to a performance of "Caro Mio Ben" by Giuseppe Giordani (Giordanello), which created
an atmosphere of calm and poignancy.
December saw Suffolk Singers start preparations for our fourth annual charity concert collaborating with FIND. Established in 1990 by founder Maureen Reynel MBE, FIND offers help to those that are deprived of a minimum standard of living, by providing food parcels, household items, furniture and other essentials. FIND's services are more essential and relevant now than they've ever been, and Suffolk Singers are very pleased to have the opportunity again to help to raise much needed funds to allow FIND to continue
their inspirational work.
Suffolk Singers are a choir much appreciated for beautiful blended singing, regularly performing concerts across Suffolk, other parts of East Anglia and beyond. At our recent AGM, it was noted that we are currently made up of members in their 20's, 30's, 40's, 50's, 60's, 70's and indeed 80's. Something to be proud of and to be celebrated.
The choir will bring their usual wide ranging programme of music from across the centuries.
No doubt there will also be a few surprises to keep the audience entertained.
So cast off those post-
Christmas blues and join Suffolk Singers as we team up with FIND for our spectacular annual charity concert! January 18th 2025 at 7:30pm at Woodbridge Community Hall, IP12 1AU. Tickets are £15 each and available from the ticket line: 07843 840876, through choir members and at www.wegottickets.com (booking fee applies). Advanced booking advised as the concert usually sells out. Tickets include a light supper, but please bring your own drinks.
We hope to see you there but, in the meantime, here's hoping you have had an enjoyable festive season!
Christmas Day Swim 2024
Come and join Blyth Valley Rotary for a fun swim on the beach below Gun Hill in Southwold at 10:30am on Christmas Day! We can't wait to see you! The swim will take place on the beach below Gun Hill, Southwold at 10:30am. Parking can be found within 200 yards on Ferry Road. You will also find public toilets here. There's a stepfree pathway to the beach. The nearest postcode is IP18 6HF. The What3Words location is /// access.nicely.dries.
Blyth Valley Rotary Club has been organising the Christmas Day charity swim for 12 years now and in that time, they've raised a total of £38,441! A big thank you to everyone who has supported!
The 2024 Christmas Day Swim is Sponsored by Stay in Suffolk.
Register:
To register, scan the QR code with your smartphone or visit: www.shorturl.at/0C9cM. If you don't wish to register in advance, you can still register on-the-day, but please arrive in plenty of time to allow registration, it will be busy. Registration starts at 9:30am and swimmers enter the water at 10:30am.
To take part in the swim you
must be registered. Registration costs £15pp in advance or £20pp on the day. Online registration will close at midnight on December 23rd. For this, you'll be covered by the Rotary insurance policy and receive a wristband that you can exchange for a medal at the end of the swim. (All of this money will go to the chosen charities. Costs are covered by our sponsors). You do not need to make a pledge! Unlike other charity events, you're not required to pledge a minimum amount of sponsorship. It's simply a flat rate to register. However, you're welcome to raise sponsorship if you wish.
On the day: If you have pre-registered, please go to the pre-registered table to check in and collect your wristband. If you have not registered, please arrive in plenty of time and go to the registration table to register and collect your wristband.
Terms & Conditions:
By registering, you agree to the following terms and conditions:
• All swimmers must be 16 years or older on the day of the swim.
• All swimmers must attend a safety briefing prior to entering the water.
• Only registered swimmers will
Halesworth WI report
We had a large audience for our Annual General Meeting and Cindy Lawes (our WI advisor) led us through the details and voting with good humour. Molly Page is our President
for the next year, a popular choice. Members then chatted and socialised over refreshments before
Finding light in loss Support for the season
I can't believe Christmas is almost upon us again! I'm sure that the older I get, the quicker time seems to fly.
For many, Christmas can't come soon enough. For others, it can be a very stressful time of year. Difficulties within families can be magnified and those already struggling financially may feel that the burden becomes heavier.
For those who are bereaved, Christmas can be yet another painful reminder of all that has been lost. There is no right or wrong way to grieve and there is no timescale for grief. Whether our loss was recent or years ago, grief can still surge on special days.
Grief expert Dr. Bill Webster calls this a "temporary upsurge of grief". Sometimes it can be triggered by hearing a particular song that reminds us of our loved one, or carrying out a family tradition. Often there seems to be no reason at all for these surges, they can hit us at the most unexpected moments and fill us with sadness.
Christmas can be a time when we experience these upsurges of grief. It is important to be kind
to yourself, there's no rule book.
Ignore pressure from others and do what you feel you can manage.
At Rosedale, we offer ongoing monthly friendship groups to all who have completed our eight week bereavement support group. At this time of year, they are busy organising their annual Christmas get-togethers. Though each person in this group is bereaved (some recently, others many years ago) there is a still a desire to come together, share a meal and celebrate the season.
It's an important reminder that grief and new life co-exist. We can be grieving, yet also allow ourselves to experience enjoyment without feeling guilty.
Everyone, no matter our circumstances, has a need for community, joy and celebration. There's much comfort and hope to be found in knowing that we're not alone and that the present and future can hold happy times.
Every year, Rosedale offers a complimentary Christmas candle to anyone who's bereaved. At 11am on Christmas morning, we invite the collective lighting of the candles and time to pause and think about our loved ones. It can be comforting to know that
we're not alone in our grief.
Rosedale also extends a warm welcome to all (no matter how long ago the bereavement or which funeral director was used), to our Christmas Services of Remembrance happening throughout December in Norfolk and Suffolk. These services provide another opportunity to come together, pause and remember our loved ones at this special time of year. Details can be found on our website: www. rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk or by calling in to your local branch. If you would like some help with your bereavement, details of our upcoming bereavement support groups can also be found on our website. They are free and are open to everyone. These groups begin again in January and take place throughout the year at locations across Norfolk and Suffolk. Call: 07901 888 122 to reserve your place. This article was written by Sarah Howard, Rosedale Funeral Home Bereavement Support Facilitator
be covered by our insurance and will be allowed to take part.
• Swimmers must not exceed a maximum of 10 minutes in the water.
• Swimmers must not exceed a distance of 10 meters from the shoreline or go beyond their own depth, whichever's shorter.
• The organisers reserve the right to cancel the event at any time due to adverse weather/ water quality issues. Any such decision will be communicated no less than three hours before the event via our website and social media sites.
• If swimmers have any doubt about their health/level of fitness, they must seek medical advice before participating.
The organisers accept no responsibility for health issues arising from swimming in cold water and swimmers take part at their own risk.
• Swimmers are advised to wear footwear whilst in the water to prevent the risk of cuts to the feet.
• Swimmers must ensure they make adequate arrangements to safeguard their property when in the water. There is no secure storage provided.
• Changing facilities are not provided.
• The organisers accept no
liability for lost items. An accompanying partner is recommended.
• Any entrant who's believed to be under the influence of alcohol/ drugs will not be allowed to enter the water.
• Swimmers must obey the instructions from the lifesaving personnel and Marshalls.
• Fancy dress is allowed and even encouraged. However, if it's deemed inappropriate, the swimmer will be asked to correct their appearance.
• No item will be allowed in the water if it's considered dangerous to other swimmers.
(ie sharp items etc)
For more info, email: info@blythvalleyrotary.co.uk
If you'd rather not take part in the swim but would like to make a donation, please visit: www.shorturl.at/xWh6I
Scan here to register
Santa Paws Appeal 2024
We're asking people to come together again this year to spread a little joy and kindness to our furry friends in need by donating to our Santa Paws Appeal! With the holiday season fast approaching, many cats and dogs will find themselves abandoned and homeless, relying on the compassion of animal rescue homes that are already overwhelmed with pets in need. We really want to help make a difference for these vulnerable animals and their dedicated rescuers who are usually volunteers, by raising funds and collecting essential items such as food bedding and toys. How you can help:
• Collect items: Donations of pet food; dry and tinned, cat and dog. Bedding, blankets, toys, treats and other supplies to help keep these animals comfortable and cared for this Christmas and through the cold months ahead.
• Spread the word: Share information of our appeal with family and friends to help reach as many people as possible. Bedding, blankets, toys etc don't need to be brand new, it's a great opportunity to clear out your cupboards for the benefit of a very worthy cause and will be welcomed by the local rescue homes.
Together, we can ensure that every animal feels the warmth of
• Donate: Every contribution (big or small) goes directly towards providing food and supplies for local rescue homes during this very busy time and will help them get through the cold weather.
love and support this Christmas! To donate money, you can follow this link: www. wangfordvetclinic.com/charity to our donation page where you can give anything from £1 upwards. You can also scan this QR code.
Rosedale Funeral Home
Wangford Veterinary Clinic
Rehearsal at St. Botolph's Church, Culpho. Photographed by Hannah Parnell Photography
Suffolk Singers
J C WOODPRODUCTS
Painters and Decorators
Allen's Clean Sweep
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
A Christmas message from the Community News
Once again, it has been an interesting and often challenging year across our towns and country as a whole.
We're a local community publication, but naturally, our thoughts go out to those who have been, and are still being affected by conflict in Gaza, Ukraine and across the world. We have seen communities pull together to do what they can to help, be it donating aid parcels, campaigning for peace or fundraising. We all hope for a swift and peaceful end to these terrible wars.
At home, we've once again experienced continued pressure on household budgets. Again, communities have come together to support those most in need with food banks and warm rooms amongst other local resources and initiatives. Please do continue to donate and support local causes where possible.
Ipswich Town back in the Premier League following back-to-back promotions. Not yet halfway through the season and though currently in the relegation zone, there have been plenty of encouraging performances giving us hope that they may well enjoy next season in the topflight too. C'mon you Tractor Boys!
No doubt, times are tough and our new government will be working hard to support families, businesses and communities across the country. But, as always seems to be the message here, we should be glad to live and work where we do. Our little corner of the world is a place where friends, neighbours and colleagues are there to look out for each other, offering a shoulder to lean on, an ear to bend, or just a friendly face when needed.
However, there have been lighter moments this year too. The blue half of East Anglia will be enjoying watching
To keep the yellow half of East Anglia happy (there's no bias here), Norwich continues to push for promotion from the Championship and though performances have been inconsistent, they will be there or thereabouts come the end of May. Who knows, we may well have an East Anglian derby in the Premier League next season.
As we move towards the end of 2024, hopefully you're looking forward to spending time with family and friends this Christmas, along with some delicious food and drink! As you finish your Christmas shopping, and with the January sales around the corner, please do continue to support the fantastic independent businesses within our community. They are the lifeblood of our towns and villages so let's make sure we support them where we can.
Finally, we'd like to take this opportunity to wish you all a fantastic Christmas and healthy and happy new year. See you in 2025!
David, Karen, Polly, Kasey & Gemma (the Community News team)
Performances at 2:30pm, 6pm & 7pm. A swashbuckling, fun-filled family pantomime packed with amazing special effects, glittering sets, outstanding costumes & a little bit of fairy dust!
Tickets from: £14.50pp.
DECEMBER 13TH & 14TH
The Tonics Live Duo
Waveney House Hotel, Beccles 3-course meal followed by entertainment by The Tonics Live Duo 80's nights. £45pp. More info, email: enquiries@waveneyhousehotel.co.uk
DECEMBER 14TH
Carols in the Square Exchange Square, Beccles
11am. Spread the joy & reason for the season with the power of song! Join our community sing-a-long of cherished Christmas carols.
Arranged by Beccles Christians Together
DECEMBER 14TH
Carols
Henstead Arts & Craft Centre
12pm. Carols from the Old School Henstead Choir.
DECEMBER 14TH 'Winter Folk'
Canopy Theatre, Hungate Church, Beccles
7:30pm-9:30pm. Peter & Jane, Silver Moon & The Goslings perform an evening of original, contemporary, classic & traditional seasonal songs. Tickets from 0333 666 3366. In aid of the weekly food bank run by Hungate Church.
DECEMBER 14TH & 15TH
Victorian Christmas Event
Henstead Arts & Craft Centre
10am-4pm. Local crafters in the courtyard, Santa in his Grotto. Georgie Deyn jazz singer from 2pm-3pm & Afternoon Tea from 3pm-5pm (bookings only).
DECEMBER 15TH
Beccles Choral Society & Waveney Concert Band
St. Michael's Church, Beccles
4:30pm. A concert of popular Christmas music & favourite carols for choir, band & the audience.
Tickets: £15pp. Under 16s free. From: 07586 959326, Beccles Bookshop, ticketsbeccleschoral@gmail.com & on the door.
DECEMBER 15TH
Community Carols at Candlelight Service
Beccles Salvation Army, Blyburgate
6pm. With the Brass Band & visit from Father Christmas! Experience an evening filled with beautiful carols, inspiring messages, & the gentle glow of candlelight that symbolises peace & hope. For more info, call 01502 716881.
DECEMBER 17TH
Drop In
The Hive, 5 Taylor Square, Beccles (where Laura Ashley used to be)
10am-11:30am. You're warmly invited to come & join Life Church Beccles for a cuppa & chat.
DECEMBER 17TH
The Nutcracker RBO
Fisher Theatre, Bungay
6:45pm. Join Clara at a delightful Christmas Eve party that becomes a magical adventure once everyone's tucked up in bed. Tickets: £14pp.
DECEMBER 17TH
Castleton Brass Band
Christmas Concert
Pulham Market, Diss
7:30pm. Pulham Market Christmas Concert. A diverse repertoire of Christmas hits. Under the direction of newly-appointed conductor Sam Salmon, the band will perform a selection of works that showcase their exceptional talent & passion for brass band music.
DECEMBER 19TH
'Bungay Belles' with Cellist Natasha Holmes for Bungay Christmas Lights
St. Mary's Church, Bungay
1pm-1:45pm. Entry by donation. Tea & coffee from 12:15pm. Carols & festive tunes, accompanied & led by William D-B, with Cellist Natasha Holmes. Only rehearsal will be at 12pm on the day! If you'd like to join in with this special Christmas event, email: fieldsartistic@gmail.com
DECEMBER 20TH & 21ST
Lee Vasey
Waveney House Hotel, Beccles
3-course meal followed by entertainment by Lee Vasey Live (9-piece band). £50pp. More info, email: enquiries@waveneyhousehotel.co.uk
DECEMBER 20TH-31ST
Beauty & The Beast Pantomime Fisher Theatre, Bungay
Performances at 1pm & 5:30pm. Family pantomime that's a tale as old as time. Join Belle as she ventures into the enchanted castle, home to the fearsome Beast & his silly staff. Can true love break the spell of the wicked enchantress before the final petal falls or will the brash hunter steal Belle's heart away? BSL signer present at the 1pm performances on December 20th & 30th. Tickets from: £10pp
DECEMBER 21ST
Christmas Party with The Toonics The Dove Inn, Alburgh Music starts at 8pm. Hurry if you want to book a Christmas meal ahead of the music (6pm-8pm) as there's now limited space! All welcome to join us. Free entry!
DECEMBER 21ST & 22ND
Santa Henstead Arts & Craft Centre
9am-10am: Breakfast with Santa (bookings only) & 10am-4pm: Santa in his Grotto.
DECEMBER 23RD
Festive Christmas Day!
The Venue, Sir John Leman High School
9:30am-2:30pm. For ages 5-10 yrs-old (siblings welcome). Family Festive Roller Skating from 9:30am-11:30am (skates available to hire). Christmas Party Games, Arts & Crafts, Christmas Film! (If staying for full day, please bring a packed lunch) £18 per child for full day or £5 per child for just rollerskating. Booking required. Limited spaces. To book, call 01502 712039, email: thevenue@sirjohnleman.co.uk or contact us via Facebook.
DECEMBER 23RD, 30TH & JANUARY 2ND & 3RD
Christmas Filmmaking Workshop
Blyburgate Hall, Beccles
10am-2pm. This December & January, The Offshoot Foundation is hosting 4-day filmmaking workshops for eligible young creatives aged 8-16. Lunch provided! Dive into animation, movie trailers, music videos & more! Hands-on training in filmmaking. Free for children on free school meals, ensuring accessibility & inclusivity for all. Limited spaces available! Book now: www.eequ.org/experience/9423
DECEMBER 25TH
Christmas Day Swim 2024 Beach below Gun Hill, Southwold 10:30am. Join us for a fun swim on the beach! Sponsored by Stay in Suffolk. The charities we're supporting this year are; Southwold RNLI, Sole Bay Care Fund & The Little Princess Trust. You must be registered to take part. Registration is £15pp in adv. or £20pp on the day. Online registration closes on December 23rd at midnight. (All of this money
goes to the charities. Costs are covered by our sponsors). It's simply a flat rate to register, you don't need to make a pledge. However, you're welcome to raise sponsorship if you wish. On-the-day registration starts at 9:30am. Swimmers enter the water at 10:30am. More info, email: info@blythvalleyrotary.co.uk
JANUARY 9TH
'Father Brown & The Curse of the Christmas Fairy' Diss Corn Hall
Performances at 4pm & 7:30pm. Presented by Common Ground Theatre Company. The Suffolk village of Dangleford is hanging by a thread! A series of poison pen letters, signed 'The Christmas Fairy', threaten to expose corruption at the heart of village life. Father Brown must use all his wits to stop the midwinter madness snowballing into a snowball of terror! Tickets: £10pp-£16pp, 01379 652241 or www.thecornhall.co.uk
JANUARY 10TH
The Wit & Songs of Noel Coward
Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm. Pianist & entertainer, Peter Gill presents a tribute to the wit & song-writing skill of that most English of Englishmen, Noel Coward, who said of himself "I'm an enormously talented man & there's no point in denying it". Tickets: £15pp.
JANUARY 11TH
Edwina Hayes
Canopy Theatre, Hungate Church, Beccles
7:30pm. Edwina brings together English folk, Americana & the rich Northern singer/ songwriter tradition to create a sound that's truly her own. Tickets: £14pp. 0333 666 3366.
JANUARY 15TH
'The English Windmill' St. John's Church, Harleston 2pm. The 1st Harleston & District U3A monthly talk for 2025! The history of windmills, windmills in art, & their decline, restoration & conservation. Visitors welcome, admission: £3pp, incl. refreshments. Further info on: harleston.u3asite.uk or contact Kim Poulton on: 01986 788149.
JANUARY 18TH
Sounds like the 80s!
Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm. Just like that old school disco, you'll be singing the night away! All your mixtape favourites in a show where the hits keep coming! Grab those neon legwarmers, big shoulder pads & shell suits out of the back of the cupboard. Join us for a fantastic night! Tickets: £17pp.
JANUARY 22ND-25TH
Jack Off The Beanstalk
Beccles Public Hall
Following their record-breaking run of 'Sinderella', The Adult Panto Company are back! The Trotts are in town & Jack is preparing to mount the huge stalk (not for the 1st time!) to do what it takes to save his village from being crushed by the giant! This strictly adults only production brings a whole new meaning to "it's behind you!" Join a fabulous cast of hilarious performers for a night you won't forget! Tickets: £18pp.
JANUARY 24TH
The ELO Encounter - Blue Sky Tour Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. The greatest tribute to Jeff Lynne's Electric Light Orchestra is here! An all live show featuring soaring strings, striking vocal harmonies & playing all the much loved songs from ELO's hit-filled library. Tickets: £20pp.
JANUARY 25TH
Burns Night Supper
Alburgh Village Hall
Doors & bar open 6pm. Starts 7pm. Includes 3-course meal. Entertainment by Miss Kitty. Ticket only admission (£18pp). Limited tickets available. Book early to avoid disappointment. Box Office: 01986 788934. Proceeds to All Saints Church, Alburgh.
JANUARY 25TH
'Song Sung Blue' The Music of Neil Diamond @ Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. A show paying tribute to the music & career of Neil Diamond, paying homage to Diamond's vocal range, guitar playing & heartfelt stage presence in a show, jam-packed with timeless songs & ballads. Tickets from: £12pp.
JANUARY 25TH
Sarah McQuaid Canopy Theatre, Hungate Church, Beccles 7:30pm. Award-winning artist. Irish traditional music & contemporary as well as old-time Appalachian folk. Tickets: £12pp. 0333 666 3366.
JANUARY 31ST
Angelos Epithemiou Beccles Public Hall
7pm. Live comedy. Angelos is the awardwinning character creation of Dan Renton Skinner, who shot to fame on the cult TV game show Shooting Stars with Reeves & Mortimer earning cult status among fans. Absolutely hilarious from the moment he walks on stage. Tickets from: £22.50pp.
Got an event you'd like to promote to our thousands of monthly readers? If so, please email the details over to: edit@micropress.co.uk to be included in our 'What's on?' section.
This loaf cake is full of warming spices and zesty flavours, making it an ideal centerpiece for a festive gathering!
• Serves:
Ingredients:
• Zest of x2 oranges
• Juice of x1 orange
• 100g dried cranberries
• 50g mixed peel (optional)
• 2 tbsp milk
• Emergency repairs
• Re-pointing
• Subsidence & cracks
• Lead flashing
For the glaze:
• Juice of x1 orange
• 75g icing sugar
• Handful of fresh cranberries (optional)
Instructions:
• Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin with baking parchment.
• Mix the batter: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, adding a spoonful of flour with each to prevent curdling.
• Add the flavours: Sift in the remaining flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently fold into the mixture. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, dried
• Full home re-design & refurbishment service to suit your needs
• Non-slip surfaces, paths & walkways
Beccles weather report
November's tale of two seasons
This summary is compiled from the records of Stephen Bartholomew of Beccles. November 2024
• Maximum temp: 17.0C (62F) on the 24th, compared with 16.0C (61F) in November 2023.
• Minimum temp: -2.0C (29F) on the 20th and 21st, compared with -2.4C (28F) in November 2023.
• Avg. maximum temp: 10.24C (50F) in 2024. 10.34C (54F) in 2023. 10.49C (50F) on average.
• Avg. minimum temp: 5.08C (41F) in 2024. 4.40C (40F) in 2023. 5.00C (41F) on average.
• Mean temp: 7.66C (45F) in 2024. 7.37C (45F) in 2023. 7.75C (45F) on average.
• Air frosts: 5, compared with 4 in November 2023.
• Rainfall total: 2.37" compared with 4.09" in November 2023. 30-year average: 2.42". 2024's total: 98% of the average.
• Most rainfall on one day: 0.60" on the 18th
cranberries, and mixed peel. Add milk to loosen the batter if needed.
• Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Leave the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Prepare the glaze: Mix the orange juice and icing sugar until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake. Decorate with fresh cranberries if desired for an extra festive touch.
• Serve & Enjoy: Slice the cake and enjoy it with a cup of mulled wine or tea for the perfect Christmas treat.
• Wind direction (mainly from): North-west 9 days, south-west 5 days, south 3 days and west 3 days.
November 2024 was an average month in respect of both temperature and rainfall. As ever, this did not tell the whole story.
The first 14 days of the month were mild for the time of year, only 2 days had failed to achieve double figures by daytime. Average maximum temperature during this period was over 1C higher than the overall long-term average for the month. Even more impressive were the night time levels, Minimum during this period fell no lower than 7.0C of which two nights (1st and 3rd) achieved 10.0C. Average
minimum was over 3C higher during this period.
This general mildness can be associated with a dominant anticyclone placed to drag up mild air from more southerly locations. Thereafter, the 2 faces of Autumn revealed themselves within the space of just a few days. The week commencing 18th turned out to be the coldest Autumn week. It culminated in a short period of snow on the 20th, which fortunately did not cause too many problems here. The 21st was the coldest day, maximum just 2.0C, 4 of the 5 night air frosts were also noted within this period. However a dramatic change was in place shortly afterwards. Storm "Bert" created many problems to the North and West of us, a byproduct of the former tropical air were maximums of 14.6C on the 23rd and 17.0C on the 24th. 18.7C achieved at Santon Downham in the west of the county was the highest recording anywhere in the country on the 24th. The 17.0C here was the latest achievement of such a temperature on my entire record and not far short of the mildest November day, 18.2C on 01/11/2020.
The first 14 days were not only mild and cloudy but mostly dry, just 4 of the month's 14 rain days noted. In fact, 0.20 inches on the 12th was the only notable fall of 0.28 inches of rain recorded.
The significant change came with the front which introduced colder air but also a showery west to north-west air stream during the early evening of the 17th until the 22nd. The wettest day of the month, 0.60" on the 18th was noted during this period.
The return to initially milder conditions was heralded by a warm front with periods of rain on the morning of the 23rd which remained in place until the 27th. The 2nd-wettest day 0.56" on the 26th included.
The eventual 2.37" total was almost comparable with long-term average following 2 excessively wet November readings in 2023 (4.09") and 2022 (6.33"). Year to date to the end of November, rainfall amounted to 27.48" and has already exceeded the long-term average for the whole year. The excessive nature of the rainfall during the last 17 months from July 2023 continues to exceed previous records with 51.17" or equivalent to exactly 2 years average.
Autumn 2024 (Sept, Oct & Nov)
• Average maximum temp: 15.2C (0.2C above 1981-2010 average)
• Average minimum temp: 8.45C (0.75C above 1981-2010 average)
• Mean temp: 11.8C (0.4C above 1981-2010 average)
• Rainfall total: 8.61"(127% of 1981-2010 average)
The Autumn season was slightly milder than the long-term average. Each month this Autumn reflected this trend. There were few highlights, other than the very late achievement of 17.0C on November 24th which followed a distinctly chilly 2.0C maximum noted just 3 days earlier. The coldest November day since 2010. This season overall pales in comparison with the very warm Autumn of 2023, which was the 3rd-warmest on my record.
2 of the 3 Autumn months, September (3.01") and October (3.23") were somewhat wetterthan-normal. While November was almost on-par with the longterm average to make another wetter-than-average season. The wettest day of the year so far was recorded on October 1st (1.25"). However on the positive side, even though wetter, the 8.61" total for the season was a long way short of the excessively wet Autumn of 2023. The 13.21" last Autumn was the 2nd-wettest on my entire record.
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms & wet rooms
• Toilet repairs & replacements
• Shower repairs & replacements
• Disability access installs
• Unblocking
• Loft tanks repairs & replacements
• Ball valve repairs
• Cylinder repairs
• Immersion thermostat & element
• General DIY
• Hanging frames/mirrors etc.
• Flatpack furniture put together
• Wall mount TVs
• Installation of bath screens
• Silicone showers & baths
• Tiling
• Lifting & shifting furniture
• Small jobs
• Whether it’s a general tidy up or complete house clearance, we can help with both!
• Toilet & tap repairs and replacements
• Summer tidy ups
• Hedges & bushes trimmed
• Sheds & greenhouses supplied, installed and repaired
• Fences, Patios & Decking
• BBQ areas
• Garden planting schemes designed & built
• Specialised topiary supplied & planted
• Brickweave & Block paving
• Turf
• Windows repaired & replaced
• Hanging doors
• Wood flooring & panelling
• Kitchen flatpacks
• Boxing in
• High-pressure jetting
• Block drains
• CCTV surveys & investigation
• Treatment plants
• Soakaways
• Grease traps
• Gullies
• Guttering
• Land drains
• Full drainage installations
• All types of roof repairs
• Ridge replacement
• Lead flashing
• Flat roofing
• Chimney repairs, re-pointing & removal
Merry Christmas to all our members and supporters
Join
Peter Pan promises to be
swashbuckling fun filled family pantomime packed with amazing special effects, glittering sets, outstanding costumes... and a little bit of fairy dust! Don't miss out on our BIGGEST panto yet! Seize your tickets now and set sail for a Neverland adventure that's bound to captivate hearts of all ages. Act fast before they fly away! It's time to HOOK your
tickets today!
Peter Pan will be performed at Beccles Public Hall from December 13th to 30th. Tickets: £14.50-£16.50, Family Ticket: £58 (fee applies when booking online). www.becclespublichall.co.uk
Beccles Christmas Film Making Workshop
Join The Offshoot Foundation this December and January for four days of filmmaking fun at Beccles' Blyburgate Hall, NR34 9TF for ages 8-16 years old. Funded by Suffolk County Council and hosted by The Offshoot Foundation. Universal holiday club with SEND support. From 10am-2pm on December 23rd, 30th and January 2nd and 3rd.
What we'll do:
• Day 1 - Movie Trailers Workshop: How to film and use equipment. What is a movie trailer and a chance for them to make their own on iMovie.
• Day 2 - Animation Workshop: Show examples of animation and teach them the basics of stop-frame animation. Each child will work in a small team to make their animation which will include a voice over that they record.
• Day 3 - Music Video Workshop: Talk through types of music videos and split into groups to devise their music video. Using skills they have learnt during the week, they film, act, dance and possibly sing their music video.
• Day 4 - Finish: Time to finish any films they've yet to complete from the week or start a fresh project from their favourite activity.
As well as taking part in the activities, we'll play indoor games and run healthy eating activities. Alongside this, we'll be giving away Christmas hampers and there will be a Christmas Party on the final day.
Learning aims:
• Aim 1: To learn the basic skills of filming.
• Aim 2: To learn the basic skills of editing.
• Aim 3: To practice acting skills.
Food: We provide free lunches and will be in touch regarding our choice of sandwiches. Please do bring along a refillable water bottle.
Limited spaces available. To book, please visit: www.eequ.org/experience/9423
The Offshoot Foundation: Inspiring a new generation of filmmakers. The Offshoot Foundation is a registered charity and has consistently produced professional filmmaking workshops and projects for young people across the whole UK since 2008. These projects help develop confidence, leadership and teamwork skills through film making and creative media. We aim to empower, enthuse and inspire young people, to develop life skills and raise aspirations by using creative media to reach their full potential.
The local group of the RAF Association (RAFA) send our seasonal greetings to all our members and supporters in Beccles and the surrounding areas and we wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas with your families and friends.
The New Year will bring new hope and also challenges to us all, so do look after yourselves and especially the more elderly of our community. Please remember, they who are not so mobile may not get to speak to anyone for long
periods, so a friendly voice may be greatly appreciated. A very merry Christmas and a happy New Year to you all! President Brian and members of the committee, RAF Association, Beccles & Southwold Area RMG
Beauty
and the Beast
REDuck ProDucktions returns with a family pantomime that is a tale as old as time. Join Belle as she ventures into the enchanted castle, home to the fearsome Beast and his silly staff. Can true love break the spell of the wicked enchantress before the final petal falls or will the brash hunter Bouffant steal Belle's heart away?
'Beauty and the Beast' is 120 minutes in duration and runs from December 20th-31st with performances at both 1pm and 5:30pm. A BSL signer will be present at the side of the stage at the 1pm performances on December 20th and 30th (the relaxed matinee). Tickets are £15pp for adults and £10pp for under 18's. Book now at: www.fishertheatre.org
