Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)
Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)
White fillings from £125 (Denplan £100)
White fillings from £125 (Denplan £100)
New patient exam £80 (Denplan £40)
Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)
Routine exam £50 (Denplan - included)
Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)
Chrome dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)
Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)
Chrome dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)
Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)
White fillings from £125 (Denplan £100)
Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)
Zirconia implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)
Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)
Zirconia implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)
Root canal treatment from £350 (Denplan £280)
Chrome dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)
Root canal treatment from £350 (Denplan £280)
Full mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236)
Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)
Full mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236)
Zirconia implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)
Root canal treatment from £350 (Denplan £280)
Full mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236)
LEISTON DENTAL CARE
LEISTON DENTAL CARE
98 High Street, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4BZ reception@leistondentalcare.co.uk
98 High Street, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4BZ reception@leistondentalcare.co.uk
Call Us: 01728 561873
Call Us: 01728 561873
Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm
Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm
The practice will be closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm
The practice will be
for lunch between 1pm and 2pm
Beccles Open Gardens
June 14th & 15th
Beccles Open Gardens returns this June with a weekend-long event.
A total of 18 gardens across the town will be open to visitors, each offering a unique glimpse into the diverse styles and approaches of local gardeners.
From landscaped plots to mature, wildlife-friendly spaces, the event is a treasure trove of inspiration for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor space. Whether it's managing a shady corner, dividing a garden into zones, or encouraging biodiversity, these gardens offer real-life solutions, and plenty of charm.
Visitors are welcome to stroll at their own pace, with refreshments including cakes and drinks available at selected gardens. It's a relaxing and informative way to spend the weekend, whether you're a keen gardener or just enjoy a good wander. Admission is £7 per adult, valid for both days. Tickets are available in advance from Beccles Books, Beccles Town Hall, and Beccles Library. The event is proudly sponsored by Durrants Estate Agents, with all proceeds going to local charities. All enquiries can be sent to: events@becclestowncouncil. gov.uk or by phone 01502 712109.
received and will help to ensure that the fête can continue to be the success that it is. There will be donation buckets available at each entrance to the site, and your donation will directly help to keep the fête going.
Come along for a great afternoon of fun and entertainment!
Planning for the event is already underway, so if anyone's interested in securing a pitch for a stall, please contact Stu on: 07708 837656.
LOCAL SERVICES DIRECTORY
Bramfield, Ringsfield and Brampton Primary Schools activities
The start of this summer half term has been very busy and we've made the most of the beautiful weather.
At Brampton, the children were really fortunate to have a visit from two orphaned lambs named Buttons and Finley! Prior to their visit, the children watched a video about looking after lambs and then they generated some lovely questions to ask the owners. We then wrote down the questions ready for our visit. The children absolutely loved meeting Buttons and Finley. They had an opportunity to stroke them and then they asked their questions and learnt how to look after them. After the visit, the children enjoyed making a fact poster about what they found out. What a great experience for the children, it was very exciting and we learnt so much!
Bungay Primary Bikeability
We're so proud of those of our Year 5's who took part in Bikeability recently. We are delighted to say that we received a full set of pass certificates back!
It was so much fun and will give our children the confidence to cycle in modern road conditions.
Ringsfield School Road Safety
We've also been learning about animals that come from eggs. We've seen the stages of tadpoles to frogs and been amazed by the changes they make so they can live on land. We met a snake named Tony and found out he sheds his skin and even got to hold him. Finally, we had a visit from some chicks and were taught lots of facts about them. We were very excited to hold them, even though they were very flappy. It's been a very busy and fun half term so far, and next we're looking forward to Tommy the Tortoise joining us for the day and a visit from the Waveney Beekeepers Group.
Bramfield Reception Class had the best day visiting all the animals at Broad Oak Farm. The children were superstars, listening carefully to all the adults and treating the animals with care and respect.
First, we did some pond dipping, finding out about all
At Ringsfield, the Reception and Nursery children are learning about the life cycle of plants and animals. We've been planting sunflower seeds, cress seeds and runner beans and learning how to take care of them. We've already observed the changes of a shoot appearing and roots forming.
the tiny creatures living in the water. Next, we went on a walk in the woods and searched for tiny treasures. Then, it was time to meet some of the animals. We met sheep, cattle including cows, calves and a big bull with a ring in his nose. We also met some lambs, kids, donkeys, ponies, ducks and ducklings and even some wonderful alpacas. The alpacas are not keen on being stroked but if you're patient enough, they'll give you a nose kiss! Finally we fed the chickens and collected an egg each. We also had a sit on some farm vehicles which was the highlight for lots of the children!
A huge thank you to all the staff at Broad Oak Farm for making our visit so memorable.
Holton Primary Sports
Day
On April 4th, Holton St. Peter Primary School and Sparkles Nursery took part in their yearly, and much anticipated, sports day.
This is always a great chance for the whole school community (pupils, teachers, and parents) to come together and enjoy a range of sporting and novelty events. These involved the sack race, archery, egg and spoon race and many more wonderful activities. It was a brilliant day of fun, physical activity, and friendly competition for our children of all ages.
Edgar Sewter Playschool & Out of School Club
Edgar Sewter Playschool is independently run and is open Monday to Friday during term time for funded and non-funded children in the term after their second birthday. We currently have limited spaces for the summer term and welcome new registrations for September. We have three intakes during the school year; in January, April and September with transitions visits into the school nursery during June and July.
Out of School Club runs for children from four years old, with
Breakfast Club from 8am and After School Club from 3:30pm onwards during term time. Holiday Club runs during half term and main school holidays and we welcome children from all schools.
We're rated 'Good' by Ofsted (October 2024). For further details, call: 07796 044277 or email: esplayschool@gmail.com to register, arrange a visit or book a place. For help with childcare costs, visit: childcarechoices.gov.uk
Hayley, Anthea, Yvonne & Stacey
Sunshine and smiles!
A blooming spring at Edgar Sewter Nursery
Spring has well and truly sprung at Edgar Sewter Primary School Nursery, and our classrooms have been buzzing with the joyful energy of our three and four-year-olds!
Our exciting topic, 'Sunshine and Sunflowers' has brought a burst of yellow and brightness to our learning.
The term blossomed right from the start with a special parent share afternoon. It was heartwarming to see little hands and grown-up hands working together, planting tiny sunflower seeds filled with the promise of summer.
Over the Easter holidays, these precious seeds were lovingly cared for in homes throughout our community. The children returned with beaming faces, proudly presenting their young seedlings, ready to find their new home in our nursery's outdoor area. Since then, eager eyes have been watching with anticipation as the tiny plants reach for the
sky, with our little ones taking on the important task of watering and ensuring they get plenty of sunshine.
Inside, our role-play area has transformed into a vibrant fruit and vegetable market. Our budding entrepreneurs have been busy weighing colourful produce, counting out pennies, and engaging in imaginative play as both shopkeepers and customers. This hands-on experience has been a fantastic way to develop their understanding of numbers and the world around them, all while having lots of fun!
Adding a splash of colour to the recent Bank Holiday weekend, the talented children of Edgar Sewter Nursery proudly exhibited their vibrant rainbow paintings at the Steeple End Art Exhibition. Their artwork brought a burst of joy to all who visited, and we were thrilled with the wonderful feedback received on their beautiful creations. It's been a truly wonderful
spring term at Edgar Sewter Nursery, filled with growth, discovery, and a strong sense of community spirit. We are incredibly proud of all our little learners and the sunshine they bring to our nursery every day. We eagerly anticipate watching our sunflowers grow tall and strong over the summer months! For families looking for highquality early years education, Edgar Sewter Nursery offers both 15-hour and 30-hour funded placements across the week, Monday to Friday. We also have our fantastic Out of School Club, providing a convenient Breakfast Club and additional after-school hours for working families. If you'd like further information or are interested in securing a place for September, please do get in touch. We're currently managing our waiting list for the new school year. Mrs Todd and the Nursery Team
Edgar Sewter Nursery has places available for a September 2025 start for children born between 01/09/2021 - 31/8/2022
We offer 15-hour sessions for all children. These can be taken in the morning, afternoon or can be spread across 2.5 days. Other session combinations are also negotiable. If you’re eligible for a 30 hours provision, then children can come all day.
We also have a payable Lunch Club with the option of a hot meal that all children can access.
There’s an on-site Out of School Club that enables parents to drop children off at 8am before Nursery or collect children at 6pm after Nursery.
Edgar Sewter Playschool is located within our building and offers childcare from 2 years old. These children receive a smooth transition into our Nursery class.
Please phone/email to request an application form: 01986 873194
Bramfield meeting the alpacas Brampton meeting Buttons and Finley
Ringsfield meeting Specks the chick
Bungay Library celebrates new look
An
The event showcased the library's larger and improved entrance, new furniture and 'Privacy Pod' and to thank everyone who contributed to the project.
The event marks the culmination of substantial building and improvement work at the library to transform it into a welcoming and accessible space for the whole community.
The project has been carried out by local builders, Sprake & Tyrell, thanks to £32,400 funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) via East Suffolk Council, £39,000 raised by The Friends of Bungay Library with support from local charities, in addition to £70,000 from Suffolk County Council.
The work has been ongoing over the past year and has involved totally reshaping the entrance area
to the library by creating a new foyer area with automatic doors.
This now provides better access for older or disabled customers and those with prams or buggies.
Sheltered canopy areas also provide 'parking' for prams and buggies, freeing up space inside the library.
There's also a storage facility for chairs, folding tables and other equipment making it easier to set up the main library space for meetings and activities. This will enable the library to host more events in future.
The new Privacy Pod will also be used by Barclays Bank for their customer drop-in sessions at the library and will be available for others to use when they want a quiet meeting space.
The new foyer also offers a better view to the library garden which is an accessible and attractive green space for everyone to enjoy. The plans also make the library more energy efficient with much improved
History of Albert's Dairy
Albert was a chap that we understand returned to Suffolk from Lincolnshire (having
insulation and energy saving lighting.
Christine Douglas (Chair of the Friends of Bungay Library) said: "We've been planning this project for some time and we're delighted it's now been completed with much improved access and a range of extra facilities for the community to enjoy.
We're sure the new seating and display spaces, as well as the private meeting area, will be popular additions to the many amenities previously offered.
We're very grateful to everyone who supported the project. Thanks must also go to the library staff who have maintained an excellent service through a spell of significant disruption while the work was carried out."
Cllr. Philip Faircloth-Mutton (Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities & Equality) said: "We were delighted to support the improvements at Bungay Community Library. These
upgrades have made the space more accessible and introduced fantastic new facilities that benefit the entire community. It's been wonderful to see this project come to fruition and deliver such positive outcomes for local residents."
Cllr. Mark Packard (East Suffolk Council's Cabinet Member for Planning & Coastal Management) said: "The
Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) uses housing developers' contributions to upgrade and improve community facilities. The Bungay Community Library has used a CIL grant to improve its foyer area and I encourage local residents to come and see what has been achieved and find out about the wide range of services the library provides for residents and their children."
smallholding was purchased by Thomas Feavearyear who farmed
to have received Funding from UK Government and Babergh & Mid Suffolk District Council Rural Business Growth Fund in order to diversify with our small farm and also encourage tourism to the area. This has enabled us to have solar panels and also finish to a higher standard. If this building was not put to good use, in time it would have fallen into disrepair and become "a blot on the landscape" which would have been visible from the highway. Naturally, sympathetic restoration of this building has enhanced it rather than harmed the intrinsic value of the countryside.
over the
had a variety of
including housing chickens, rabbits and a pet pig called Bruno. It became very dilapidated and Robin and Trudie chose to repair and renovate it once planning permission was granted, in order to provide a holiday let. We've been fortunate enough
We're so very lucky to live in this idyllic part of the country, once we decided on the holiday let route, we realised just how much was available right on our doorstep. We want to share this with everyone that comes to stay, so that they too may enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this part of Suffolk.
For further information, please contact Trudie on: 07949 672923.
(L to R): Sylvia Knight (Suffolk Libraries Chair and member of The Friends of Bungay Library), Christine Douglas (Chair of the Friends of Bungay Library) and Amanda King (Library Manager)
Outside the newly-improved library
Cake cutting with Sylvia and Christine
Adrian Ramsay MP marks VE Day
Adrian Ramsay MP, CoLeader of the Green Party of England and Wales and Member of Parliament for Waveney Valley, marked VE Day by attending the national commemoration ceremony at Westminster Abbey, followed by local events across his constituency.
Adrian Ramsay MP said:
"It was an enormous honour to represent the Green Party at Westminster Abbey to mark 80 years since the end of WWII in Europe. VE Day is a time to reflect on the significant sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace. As we commemorate that hard-won peace, I am reminded that we, as Members of Parliament, have a duty to promote and protect peace in the world today."
Later that evening, Adrian joined residents at events in Diss and Harleston to commemorate VE Day locally: "It was a privilege to attend VE Day events in Diss and Harleston, following the ceremony at Westminster Abbey. It brought home the fact that, at its heart, VE Day is about community and remembrance. 80 years ago, people across the country came together to celebrate the end of the war with their neighbours, while also mourning the fallen who made the ultimate sacrifice.
I was proud to stand alongside our communities in Diss and Harleston as they gathered once again in that same spirit. As we honour the past, it's also a moment to reflect on the enduring values of peace, unity, and resilience."
Making tax digital
What the HMRC letter means for you
Have you recently received a letter from HMRC and felt a slight flutter of panic? Don't worry, you won't be alone. HMRC has started sending out its first wave of letters to individual taxpayers likely to be affected by the next phase of Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax Self-Assessment (ITSA). Starting April 2026, selfemployed individuals and landlords with an income over £50,000 annually (income is defined as gross self-employment income plus gross rental income before express as shown on your tax return for the year ended 5th April 2025) will need to keep digital records and submit quarterly updates to HMRC. Not quite in that bracket? Don't relax just yet. From April 2027, the threshold drops to £30,000, and by April 2028, it's set to reach £20,000. In short, MTD is coming for a lot of people. If you're already using accounting software and keeping your records neat and tidy, you're likely in a good position. But if your current bookkeeping involves a shoebox full of receipts and a once-a-year panic, it's time to think about going digital or hiring someone who can help. The good news? Modern accounting software doesn't have to be a nightmare. Many platforms are designed with the non-accountant in mind, offering clear dashboards, mobile apps,
Suffolk Community Foundation
May 2025 update
ActivLives (£141,079)
"This funding will enable ActivLives to continue to deliver and grow our three existing falls prevention and BreatheFit sessions in Leiston and Saxmundham and working with local residents, develop new inclusive activities for older adults, to keep people active, connected and reduce loneliness and social isolation. The funding will also enable us to strengthen our presence in the Sizewell C area, widen our reach to other towns and villages to develop new preventative and social activities, that will help break down the barriers to participation and motivate and support older people with their physical, mental and emotional health. We look forward to meeting and working with more local residents and getting them involved in the ActivAble Project."
- Julie Stokes, CEO, ActivLives I Made This (£89,153)
"I Made This is excited to be able to deliver our stop animation project (for children with autism and other special needs) in the Leiston area thanks to the Sizewell C Community Fund. The grant will enable us to expand the work we've been doing in East Suffolk for the past 15 years. Our application was in part successful because of the support and advice from Suffolk Community
Foundation, whose guidance was invaluable."
- Paul Fitzgerald, Project Manager, I Made This Leiston Youth Club (£28,009.44)
"Leiston Youth Club's staff and members would like to thank the Sizewell C Community Fund for their support in funding the Youth Club and enabling it to remain open. Leiston Youth Club has been a part of our community for over 60 years. We're very pleased that we can continue to offer support and advice, as well as provide a safe place for the young people of Leiston and its surrounding areas to develop skills and friendships."
- Lucy Pickett, Senior Youth Worker Green Light Trust (£14,755)
"We're really pleased to receive funding from the Sizewell Community Fund and excited about our new partnership with the Wardens Trust. This funding will enable us to deliver naturebased activities for local people within a beautiful space at the Wardens Trust.
People will be able to come together in a calm and inspiring environment, engage in wellbeing and wood-crafting activities and have lunch around a campfire, which will be specially built. They will also be able to learn more about the Wardens Trust and volunteering opportunities should
Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund
and handy reminders. With regular use, you'll not only stay compliant but also gain a better handle on your business finances. Keeping on top of your numbers throughout the year can help you avoid those eye-watering surprise tax bills. Plus, it'll give you a realtime view of how your business is performing so you can make informed decisions rather than guesses.
HMRC will continue to release more guidance in the lead-up to implementation. In the meantime, we'll be working closely with our clients to ensure they're ready and fully compliant. If you've received a letter and you're unsure what to do next, please don't ignore it, take a few steps now such as exploring accounting software or speaking to your advisor.
It might sound like a big shift (and it is), but with the right tools and a bit of guidance, Making Tax Digital could be less of a tax headache and more of a fresh start for your finances.
For further information, please contact Chrissie Turnbull (pictured above) via email: chrissie.turnbull@ensors.co.uk
The information contained within this publication is given by way of general guidance. Specialist advice should always be sought in relation to your particular circumstances. No liability is accepted by Ensors for any actions taken without seeking appropriate professional advice.
they wish to do so."
- Helena Harris, Head of Operations, Green Light Trust Leiston & District Swimming Club (£88,030)
"We're incredibly thankful to have been awarded this funding. It will allow us to grow and enhance the club, which in turn will enable us to expand the programs and opportunities we can provide for people in Leiston and the surrounding communities. The funding will be used to provide dedicated equipment for all of our members, relieving the burden on families, offering extra pool time to enable more opportunities to swim, all the way to being able to offer a new Masters program for adults and providing dedicated support to all of our volunteers. We believe this will help more individuals and families get involved in the sport, supporting both their mental and physical wellbeing."
"As a club run entirely by volunteers, we were initially nervous about applying, since we had no prior experience and no dedicated staff to handle the application process. But the support we received from the team at Suffolk Community Foundation was outstanding and made everything so much more manageable."
- Buddy Lamb, Volunteer & Committee Member
My father's dementia story
By his daughter, Tessa Summers
My father, John Ellis was officially diagnosed in November 2023 with mixed dementia and alzheimer's but as many of us know, the warning signs started much earlier. My husband and I came home from living abroad in 2013, so he lived next door to us for many years.
In my dad's case, the dementia was gradual. Apart from being a little forgetful at first, he managed well but there were a few incidences. A keen golfer, he decided to dry his golf shoes in the microwave, which I hasten to add is not a good idea. The rubber-soled shoes melted! On the plus side, they did not have metal spikes and at least the smoke detectors were working!
He rubbed shower gel directly onto his face because it said on the label "moisturising for the skin".
Keys, glasses and wallets were getting mislaid on a daily basis. It was always someone else who had moved them apparently. One time (thanks to an Apple air tag), I found my dad's wallet in the freezer. One morning I saw him climb out the bedroom window because he'd locked all the doors overnight and couldn't find the keys, quite agile for someone in their 90s and luckily his house was single story! Scammers and con artists (mostly over the phone but sometimes the computer) were also a constant threat.
His sleep patterns got worse, going to bed earlier and earlier and getting up earlier and earlier, sometimes so early it was before we'd even gone to bed at night!
He'd get dressed, pack a suitcase, sometimes all trousers and nothing else, sometimes with food and a knife and fork and sometimes just shirts and framed photographs, incidentally never any underwear. Often, he'd come into our house in the middle of the night or walk past our kitchen door and set the dog off barking.
One morning at around 4:30am, the dog was barking
louder than normal so my husband got up and looked out the window and said "there's a police car outside". I said "haha pull the other one" but then he said "no there really is!" I jumped out of bed and went next door.
My dad had flagged the police car down wanting a lift to the airport to fly back to England. From the police records (an out-of-date shotgun licence) they thought he lived a quarter-mile away so tried to drop him off there, only to find he didn't live there so brought him back to the end of our drive where they'd picked him up and to his house! Who knew that the Suffolk police were so active at four in the morning!
On another occasion, he told me he'd qualified for the semi finals of the World Snooker Championships (which was on TV at the time). I'd never seen my father play snooker ever so said "oh stop joking dad" to which he got a little cross and said "I am serious". So going along with it, I told him not to worry and that I'd phone to tell them he couldn't get to Sheffield tomorrow, so would like to withdraw. Another time, he wanted help with the cufflinks on his smart dress shirt to which I said "Oh dad why are you wearing that?" To which he replied "I need to stand in at the presentation for that man", pointing to the TV, he was watching Wimbledon. After the snooker episode, I said: "Are you playing tennis then?" To which he replied, "oh don't be so silly, I just need to stand in for that man with the black hair."
"You mean Alcaraz, who's 21?"
He said: "yes, I'm going to dye my hair!"
It's always important to look on the funny side while looking after somebody with dementia. Dad became quite well-known on the local village WhatsApp towards the end. Physically and particularly for his age, he was incredible and would often wander off without telling me. Sometimes to Wissett Church
Join Framlingham's Phoenix Singers this summer for a night at the opera!
(about a mile away) sometimes as far as Halesworth (3 miles away), getting lifts off concerned drivers. He told them he had important documents to sign in town! People were very kind and often invited him in for coffee.
One such time was when he was looking for accommodation for the British Army near Chediston Church. The kind but concerned couple, still smile when they think of my dad and that their cosy cottage was suitable for officer billeting.
Dementia is a cruel disease.
My clever, successful self-made businessman father would not have liked the fact that he needed help putting on his clothes the right way around. He'd answer the phone with the TV remote and yes, try to turn on the TV with the phone! Before dementia, he was the one who had helped both me and my brothers with practical and financial advice. He was always there for us. A cool head in a crisis with unconditional love.
I'm pleased to say that right to the end, he still had a good sense of humour and an amazing quality of life thanks to Halesworth Dementia Carers. His diary was busy with Memory Café Tuesdays, Singing with Friends Wednesdays, Creative Art on Thursdays but above all, Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund (HDCF) offered warmth and friendship and a feeling of belonging.
Earlier this year, I attended a course/workshop with dad which was funded by HDCF and held at the Pear Tree Centre. It was called 'Remembering Yesterday, Caring Today'. On the final Saturday, they asked the carers to write a living testament to their husband, wife, mother or in my case, father about how much they meant to them.
Dad died on March 27th, 2025 and I am very grateful now that I got this opportunity to tell him how loved he was and how lucky I was to have him as my father.
The choir will be stepping into the role of the opera chorus, whilst a quartet of up-andcoming opera stars will perform dazzling arias and showpieces to conjure up a night at the opera. The evening will be a glittering exploration of operatic music, featuring fabulous arias, duets, trios and choruses from operas by Purcell, Mozart, Bizet, Verdi, Puccini.
Hop to it!
Following Ipswich's success with Pigs Gone Wild, Elmer's Big Parade and the Big Hoot, St. Elizabeth Hospice has announced its fourth art trail, Hop to it! Suffolk 2025. This year, the trail will also extend to neighbouring 'satellite locations' including Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Beccles, and Lowestoft for the first time.
The whole event kicks off on June 21st and lasts through until August 29th. It'll raise money for St. Elizabeth Hospice, which provides essential services far and wide across Suffolk.
On June 21st, all hares (two large and around 17 smaller) will appear around Woodbridge and other towns. The large ones will be in prominent open areas and the 17 smaller ones in various shop windows around the town. They will form a trail for families and individuals to follow. A free app will be available to help with
Put the date in your diary now to join the Phoenix Singers for 'Opera Stars' on July 5th, 2025 at 7pm, at Framlingham College Theatre.
Art Trail
this. Anglia Rail are promoting travel to all the towns involved. Woodbridge Town Council has sponsored one of the large hares, which comes with two small ones. Like all the other hares, these have been painted by professional artists. Their themes remain a secret until their arrival! Woodbridge Youth Council from its budget, has paid the £100 sponsorship fee for each of the primary and secondary schools in Woodbridge to be involved, each now having a small hare painted for display round the town. As a further commitment, Woodbridge Youth Council have committed to raising £2,000 as the Town Council's contribution to St. Elizabeth's. This will be through a two-day Craft & Gift Fair in the Shire Hall and Market Place, on June 21st and 22nd, indoors in the Shire Hall and outdoors in the Market Square.
'Women's Lives on the Farm' by Dr. Janet Few
Talk on June 16th, at 2:30pm in the Fromus Centre, Saxmundham.
A look at the role of our female rural ancestors. This presentation considers the many skills that our female rural ancestors would have needed to master, both in the farmhouse and on the land.
Other women were paid for their agricultural work or undertook piece work to boost the domestic economy, and the type of work that they might undertake will also be investigated. Janet Few is an experienced and well-known British family, social and community historian who has lectured at conferences across the English-speaking world and at sea. She's an author of both historical fiction and nonfiction, as well as many magazine articles. In addition, she's worked with the UK 'Who Do You Think You Are?' TV programme. As an educator, Janet runs online genealogy and social history courses for Pharos Tutoring & Teaching. She's currently serving as the President of the Family History Federation and is actively involved in several other family history organisations.
For Janet, the joy of genealogy lies in the context and she
believes in the importance of understanding the history of the places in which our ancestors lived and the social history of their time.
The talk takes place on June 16th at 2:30pm, in person at the Fromus Centre, Saxmundham, IP17 1AL (behind the Library) and, for members only, on Zoom. Janet will be speaking to us on Zoom. No need to book, just turn up, £1 for members, £3 for visitors, including tea/coffee/ biscuits. Good, free car-parking. Only members can take part in our meetings on Zoom (which are free), but it only costs £8 for a year's membership. avsfhg.org.uk/membership
Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group
Dr. Janet Few
Woodbridge Town Council
Ensors Accountants
J C WOODPRODUCTS
JUNE 1ST
Quiz at the Hall
Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm-10pm. Gather friends/ family & come test your general knowledge at our friendly & competitive quiz evening. Teams of up to 6 people. £6pp.
JUNE 2ND
Forget-Me-Nots
Beccles Public Hall
2pm-4pm. Relaxing afternoon for folk with dementia & family/ friends. Live music followed by tea & cake for just £2pp. You're welcome to join us. Further info, contact Jenny: 01502 714828 or 07528 373117. We look forward to your company!
JUNE 3RD
Il Barbiere di Siviglia
- Met Opera (U)
Fisher Theatre, Bungay
7:15pm. Be transported to the sun-drenched streets of 18-century Seville as Bartlett Sher's witty production comes to the big screen. Tickets: £14pp.
JUNE 3RD - AUGUST 18TH
2nd Special Exhibition of the 2025 season
Beccles & District Museum
Beccles Fires & Fire Brigades will run from June 3rd-Aug 18th. The exhibition will cover some notable fires & their consequences, with a look at how the town's organised itself to tackle the fires that impact peoples lives & businesses from the 1586 Great Fire of Beccles through to current day. Museum's open 1:45pm-4:30pm every Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat until Oct 30th. Registered charity, run by volunteers. Admission free, donations welcome. www.becclesmuseum.org.uk
JUNE 3RD - 10TH
Book Fair
Fisher Theatre, Bungay
10am-3pm (& from 6:30pm on show nights). Hundreds of top quality pre-loved books, most £2 or less, incl. wide range of novels, children's books & nonfiction, displayed in the Fisher Gallery. Come browse & pick up a bargain! Fresh stock added
during the week. Book donations welcome, please drop them into the box office. Every penny raised goes to the Fisher.
JUNE 4TH - 8TH
Russell's International Circus!
Beccles Quay Roll up, roll up! Russell's International Circus makes a special return visit to Beccles!
A brand new show for 2025!
Breathtaking 2hr performance jam-packed with mesmerising aerial displays, jaw-dropping stunts, world-class comedy & much more! Showtimes: Weekdays 6pm only, Sat 3pm & 6pm, Sun 12pm only.
JUNE 5TH
Singing & Piano
St. Mary's Church, Bungay 1pm-1:45pm. Presented by Alistair Bamford & Alain Judd. Coffee & tea from 12:15pm. Variety of songs, incl. by Claude Debussy, Gerald Finzi & Duke Ellington. Entry by donation.
JUNE 5TH
The Room Next Door (12) Beccles Public Hall
2pm-4pm. Challenging subject matter is handled sensitively in this thoughtful drama, as 2 old friends (a war reporter & a writer) are unexpectedly reunited under difficult circumstances.
£7pp (incl. tea/coffee & cake)
JUNE 5TH
A Streetcar Named Desire - National Theatre Live Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7pm. Gillian Anderson, Vanessa Kirby & Ben Foster lead the cast in Tennessee Williams' timeless masterpiece, returning to cinemas. Tickets: £14pp.
JUNE 5TH
Dr. Strangelove
- National Theatre Live Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm. Steve Coogan plays 4 roles in the world premiere stage adaptation of Stanley Kubrick's comedy masterpiece, Dr. Strangelove. An explosively funny satire, about a rogue US General who triggers a nuclear attack. £14pp.
JUNE 7TH
JUNE 6TH
Friday Supper Club Flint Vineyard, Bungay
6:30pm-8pm or 8pm-9:30pm. Delicious food in a barn & a glass of Flint with friends. Seasonal 2-course dinner designed by our chef, Alex. £39.50pp. www.flintvineyard.com
JUNE 6TH
HEY Rock & Roll
Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm-10pm. Step back in time & relive the golden era of music at a sensational show celebrating the greatest hits of the rock & roll era! £15pp.
JUNE 6TH
The Total Who Show
Fisher Theatre, Bungay
7:30pm. 2hrs of hits & classics by The Who, by Johnny Warman's Magic Bus, feat. musicians who have performed with Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend & John Entwistle from the band itself. Tickets: £20pp.
JUNE 7TH
Discovery Tour
Flint Vineyard, Bungay 2pm. Classic vineyard & winery tour with a member of the winemaking team, ending with a tasting of our range. Optional grazing board lunch. From £25pp. www.flintvineyard.com
JUNE 7TH
An Evening of Clairvoyance
A Bit on The Side, 14 Upper Olland Street, Bungay Doors open 6:30pm. 7pm start. With Caroline Brewster. Tickets: £22.50pp incl. buffet & soft drinks. 07734 207913.
JUNE 7TH
Spring Evening Concert
All Saints Church, Alburgh, IP20 0DA
7:30pm. The Mirliton Flutes will be playing a wide variety of music to suit all tastes. Tickets: £15pp, children under 12 free. Drinks & canapes served during interval. Box Office: 01986 788815. In aid of All Saints Church funds.
Bootleg Boss: Bruce Springsteen Tribute Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm. UK-based 7-piece band performing classic Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band songs. £15pp.
JUNE 7TH
The Paul Simon Story Fisher Theatre, Bungay
7:30pm. Performed in tribute to Paul Simon as one of the best songwriters of his generation & blends an engaging narration, exceptional musicianship from the 5-piece band & authentic renditions of the best of his songs. Tickets: £19.50pp.
JUNE 7TH
James Keelaghan
Canopy Theatre, Hungate Church, Beccles
7:30pm. Canadian folk singersongwriter James Keelaghan will showcase his rich repertoire of historically inspired & emotionally resonant songs. Tickets: £15pp.
Book: www.shorturl.at/Gb4Ys
JUNE 7TH
Living History Walk
The Bear & Bells, Beccles
7:30pm. Enjoy a summer evening walk around Beccles & discover its past, buildings, trades & people. A host of characters from bygone days come to life! Walks take approx. 90mins & start/finish at The Bear & Bells in Old Market. Tickets: £5pp must be purchased in adv. from Saxons, located in SPORTSTORE, New Market. Children under 12: £1. Under 5's free.
JUNE 8TH
Beccles Triathlon Fest 2025 Beccles Lido
A celebration of sport, perseverance & community spirit. Whether competing, cheering from the side, or volunteering, you're part of something special. All races start & finish at Beccles Lido. The Triathlon sells out each year, so book today! 3 fantastic ways to test your limits (Triathlon, Aquabike & Aquathlon). Welcoming both
A Complete Unknown (15) Fisher Theatre, Bungay 6pm. Charting the rise to fame of the young Bob Dylan (Timothée Chalamet) during the years after his arrival in NYC in 1961. Meal & film: £19pp. Just film £7pp.
JUNE 12TH
Violin & Piano
St. Mary's Church, Bungay 1pm-1:45pm. Presented by Dylan Latham & Mihaly Gyorfi. Coffee & tea from 12:15pm. Recital of sonatas by Edvard Grieg & Antonin Dvorak. Entry by donation.
JUNE 12TH
Norfolk FWAG Farm Walk Bedingham Hall Farm, Bungay, NR35 2DD 5:30pm-9pm. Join us for a Norfolk Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) farm walk, hosted by Louise Bond, winner of the Ian MacNicol farm conservation award 2025. Walk features various stops & talks from experts, sharing advice & thoughts on environmental farming practices. Norfolk FWAG Members free, non members: £10pp. Book: www.shorturl.at/iw5Rt
JUNE 12TH
A Night with Janis Joplin (12A) Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7pm. This multi award-winning show is an extraordinary musical journey paying homage to Janis Joplin & her biggest musical influences. Tickets £14pp.
JUNE 13TH, 14TH & 15TH
Dorothy in Wonderland
Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm on Fri 13th & Sat 14th & 2:30pm on Sun 15th. Presented by Spotlight Musical Theatre Group. Magical story where Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man & Lion meet Alice, The Mad Hatter, March Hare & all the characters in Wonderland! Can Glinda save the day & help Dorothy & Alice return home? Tickets from £12pp.
JUNE 14TH & 15TH
Beccles Open Gardens
Various Beccles locations
10am-4pm. 18 gardens open to the public across the weekend. From wildlife-friendly spaces to newly landscaped plots. A perfect chance to gather ideas or simply enjoy a relaxing stroll with refreshments along the way. Tickets: £7pp (valid both days) available from Beccles Books, Town Hall & Library. Sponsored by Durrants Estate Agents. All proceeds to local charities. Enquiries call: 01502 712109 or email: events@ becclestowncouncil.gov.uk
JUNE 16TH
Forget-Me-Nots
Beccles Public Hall 2pm-4pm. Relaxing afternoon for folk with dementia & family/ friends. Live music followed by tea & cake for just £2pp. You're welcome to join us. Further info, contact Jenny: 01502 714828 or 07528 373117. We look forward to your company!
JUNE 18TH
A Visit to Earsham Hall Bungay, NR35 2AN 2:15pm-5pm. The visit includes ground floor tour of the Hall, a walk through the gardens, tea on arrival, finishing with full Afternoon Tea. Tickets from: £36pp. Book: shorturl.at/pdYE5
JUNE 19TH
Piano, Singing, Poetry & Painting St. Mary's Church, Bungay 1pm-1:45pm. Presented by William & Victoria DrewBatty, with Mike Davison & Jo Shepherd. Coffee & tea from 12:15pm. Special recital, celebrating the sea! Entry by donation.
JUNE 19TH, 20TH & 21ST
Shrek The Musical Jr. Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm (extra 2pm performance on 21st). Presented by The Fisher Youth Theatre Group. Bringing to life the world of Shrek, live on stage in an unforgettable production to melt hearts of all ages. Tickets from: £9pp.
JUNE 20TH
'Songs & Sonnets for a Suffolk Summer Solstice' Caedmon Evening Wrentham Chapel 7pm. Celebrate all things seasonal & our wonderful county with music, word & song. Join us for spontaneous performances, brought along by some of the audience, with a light buffet, wine & fruit juice in the interval. No charge, but donations for the upkeep of this historic chapel will be gratefully received.
JUNE 20TH
Oasiz Live!
Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm-10pm. Morning Glory 30th Anniversary 2025 UK Tour. One of the UK's most authentic Oasis tribute bands. Be quick, this is expected to sell out! Tickets £15pp.
JUNE 21ST
Cèilidh Barn Dance
Clinks Care Farm, Toft Monks 6pm-10pm. This fundraising event is a real barn dance with professional folk musician
John Ward & his Cèilidh band 'Skiphire'. A great night out that's guaranteed to get you moving on the dance floor! Food, hog roast or BBQ is incl. in the price. Tickets from: £7pp. shorturl.at/Ks8YX
JUNE 21ST
Daniel Sinclair:
Comedy Hypnosis & Mind
Reading Mentalism Show
Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm-9:45pm. Prepare for a night of wonder as one of the UK's top hypnotists & renowned mindreader/mentalists brings you 2 unmissable shows. Tickets £18pp.
JUNE 26TH
Classic Piano Recital St. Mary's Church, Bungay 1pm-1:45pm. Presented by Veronica Wilson & Rachel Warren. Coffee & tea from 12:15pm. Entry by donation.
JUNE 27TH
Women in Rock
Beccles Public Hall
7:30pm-10pm. Celebrating the sensationally strong female leaders of rock, incl. Blondie, Suzi Q, Janis Joplin, Heart, Joan Jett, Pink, Kiki Dee, Bonnie Tyler, Cher & many more! A show you don't want to miss! Tickets £24pp.
JUNE 27TH
A Night at the Musicals - Ellie Foulger Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Expect to hear some of your favourite West End & Broadway hits, as Ellie takes you through her incredible journey in the world of theatre. Tickets from: £12pp.
JUNE 28TH
Summer Fête
All Saints Church, Alburgh - On the Playing Field (IP20 0BZ) 1:30pm. A traditional fête with something for everyone. Jormungandr Viking reenactment group will be demonstrating their skills. Try axe throwing & archery! Cream teas, tombola, raffle, cakes, books, plants, vintage cars & tractors & much more! In aid of All Saints Alburgh Church funds.
JUNE 28TH Gary Delaney & Support Acts Beccles Public Hall 7pm-9:15pm. Mock The Week & Live At the Apollo star Gary Delaney returns to headline Shaft Of Wit's Big Comedy Club Night, joined by comedians, Carl Donnelly & David Eagle, & a top MC. Tickets £24pp.
JUNE 28TH
Harleston Choral Society 25th Anniversary Concert
Harleston Sancroft Academy 7pm. Singing Carl Orff Carmina Burana with professional soloists & orchestra, & the school's choir. Further info about HCS can be found on: harlestonchoralsoc.org.uk & from Joint Chairs; Caroline: caroline@rodbourne.org.uk & Jo: jo.curry@sky.com
JUNE 28TH
Wicked (PG) Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), a young woman ridiculed for her green skin, & Glinda (Ariana Grande), a popular girl, become friends at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. After an encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads... Tickets: £7pp.
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.
•
Beccles weather report
3.5C cooler than the next lowest maximum.
23.5C (
30th,
with 21.4C (70F) in April 2024.
• Minimum temp: 0.6C (33F) on the 7th, compared with 2.0C (35F) in April 2024.
• Average max. temp: 15.82C (60F) in 2025. 14.22C (57F) in 2024. 13.40C (56F) on average.
• Average minimum temp: 5.59C (42F) in 2025. 6.40C (43F) in 2024. 4.60C (40F) on average.
• Mean temp: 10.71C (51F) in 2025. 10.31C (50F) in 2024. 9.00C (48F) on average.
• Air frosts: Nil, compared with nil in April 2024.
• Rainfall total: 0.35", compared with 2.52" in April 2024.
• Most rainfall on one day: 0.24" on the 15th.
• Wind direction, mainly from: South-east 8 days, north-east 6 days, east 6 days and north 4 days. April 2025 was somewhat milder and drier than the longterm average.
It was the warmest April in terms of mean temperature since 2014 and also the highest average maximum for the month since 2011. This was much to do with many relatively mild days for this time of the year as 17 days achieved 15C or better. 20C or more were recorded on the last four days, including the warmest day of 23.5C on the 30th, which was April's highest temperature since 2018 (three days that month surpassed 2025 maximum). There was really only one chilly day this April, the 9th recorded a maximum of only 8.8C, nearly
)
Long sunshine hours were reported in East Anglia, some stations recorded their sunniest April on record. March and April combined had around 200 hours duration above long-term average generally. Because of this, there were many clear starry nights which at this time of the year led to large variations between daytime and night-time values on a number of days. The average difference for the month was 10.2C, while the most extreme example occurred on the 11th being 18.7C (maximum 19.5C, minimum 0.8C). Although an air frost was not recorded during the month, there were a few near misses on the nights of the 6th (+1.3C), 7th (+0.6C) and 11th (+0.8C). Even later in the month the nights of the 25th (+3.3C) and 26th (+4.0C) were distinctly chilly. As a result, the average minimum temperatures although above normal by one degree Celsius was somewhat more modest than the 2.4c Celsius difference on daytime temperature.
Following two consecutive wetter-than-average Aprils, this time, the month returned to the drier trend. Over the last 21 years, only six had been wetterthan-average. 12 of the remaining 15 can be classed as very dry, recording less than an inch total. This month, only 0.35" total was the driest since April 2022 (0.28") and the 7th driest April on my entire record. Nil in 2007, 0.18" in 2009, 0.19" in 1996, 0.22" in 2011 and 0.32" in 1976 were the lowest totals otherwise. For comparison, this year to-date
rainfall at 30th April 2025 now totals 3.93" against 10.79" at this time last year.
There were only five rain days noted during the month. 0.24 inches on the 15th was the wettest day. Considerable dry spells throughout March, April and continuing into May are now becoming very concerning.
11 days (February 28th-March 10th), 6 days (March 15th-20th), 20 days (March 24th-April 12th) and now 11 days and counting (April 22nd-May 2nd). The unseasonally warm spell has continued into May. The 1st achieved a maximum temperature of 25.5C, the warmest day so early in the month on record and also the equal highest May recording (with 21/05/2020 and 07/05/2018) since 27.0C achieved on 08/05/2018.
Summer Skincare
Keeping your skin safe in summer months
As the warm weather arrives and we spend more time outdoors, it's so important to protect your skin. While a golden tan might look nice, too much sun can lead to premature ageing, pigmentation, sunburn, and even skin cancer. Luckily, a good skincare routine and a few smart habits can help you stay safe in the sun:
• Use Suncream: Choose a broadspectrum SPF 30+ and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Don't forget spots like ears, neck, hands, and feet. For your face, opt for a lightweight, noncomedogenic formula.
• Hydrate & Moisturise: Sun and heat can dry out your skin. Use a moisturiser with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated inside and out.
• Stay Shady: Suncream isn't enough on its own. Wear a hat, UV sunglasses, and light clothing during peak hours (11am–3pm). Stick to the shade when you can.
• Soothe with After-Sun: If you get burnt, aloe vera or chamomile-based after-sun products can help. Store them in the fridge for extra relief.
• Care for Sensitive Skin: Heat can trigger flare-ups of rosacea, eczema, or rashes. Use gentle, fragrance-free products and avoid harsh treatments. Look for calming ingredients like oat extract or niacinamide.
• Check Your Skin: Regularly inspect moles for changes in shape, colour, or size. If anything looks odd, see your GP. Summer skincare is all about protection, hydration, and prevention. Look after your skinand it'll look after you!
THE HANDY TEAM
Euston Hall tours & garden access 2025
Experience the charm and history of Euston Hall during its Open Hall & Garden Days in Euston, Thetford.
Scheduled across three periods (19th-22nd June, 25th31st August, and 13th-19th September), these special days invite visitors to discover the grandeur of the Hall and its beautiful surroundings.
Guided Hall tours run daily at 10:15am, 11:15am, and 12pm. Tours must be booked, and visitors are encouraged to arrive 10
minutes prior. These informative tours offer a rare chance to explore the historic interiors of Euston Hall and to stroll through its serene Gardens and Pleasure Grounds. The experience also includes a visit to St. Genevieve's church, all steeped in centuries of heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful day out, with refreshments available in the Tea Rooms, Euston Hall promises an enriching and memorable visit. eustonhall.co.uk/event-list
J W Body Repairs
In memoriam
Toby Claude Chenery
We'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped and supported us since losing our beloved Toby.
To Faith at Rosedale and all the team, Dominic the Vicar, Jason, Gwen, Simon and everyone at St. Mary's, Sandie for the catering, Hetty from the Copy Shop, Karina from Halesworth Florists, all the staff at Chinnys and those who just came to lend a hand, we can not thank you enough for helping us to honour Toby's life and to give him the tribute he deserved.
To everyone else who came to the service, sent cards, food, flowers, made donations, or has just shown us love and kindness, we have truly been overwhelmed and thank you really doesn't seem enough.
On Monday 24th February
Toby went to bed a fit, happy and healthy young man and sadly passed away in his sleep.
Losing Toby has had a profound impact not only on us as a family but also the wider community. It's our intention to continue raising money in Toby's memory for
Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) and to fund a CRY screening day in our community to try and do whatever we can to promote the charity and raise awareness of the amazing work they carry out.
At the moment, the total raised stands at £9,775 which is amazing and beyond what we thought was possible. However to fund a screening day, we need to raise £10,500 and hope to achieve this with a number of fundraising events over the coming months.
Please keep an eye out on Facebook and Toby's CRY Memorial page for details. If you haven't already and wish to do so, it's still possible to donate towards Toby's fund using either
tobyclaudechenery .muchloved.com
of the links below or dropping your donation in to Chinnys where we'll make sure it's paid into the fund for you.
Again, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support.
Trev, Claire, Jane, Gareth, Matti, Adam, Sal, Lenny, George, Jessie and Molly ♥ Forever in our hearts ♥
www.c-r-y.org.uk /toby-chenery
Westhall Charity FC
On April 19th, Westhall Charity Football Club held a charity football game over at Spexhall Football Club's pitch.
This game was to raise money for Ilketshall St. Lawrence Primary School and it was an incredible day with games for children, a penalty shootout, cake stall and raffle.
We owe a huge thank you to all the players, referee, supporters, local businesses that donated prizes, our photographer Ian Hart, Spexhall FC, the Huntsman and Hounds, our kit sponsors and our match sponsor Home Bird Cleaning Services.
We have two matches to go this year, so if anyone wishes to support these or play in any event, please get in touch with Westhall Charity FC via our Facebook page or Will Bird via email: will_bird1989@hotmail.com July 27th: Sizewell Sports & Social Club, charity TBC August 31st: Spexhall FC, charity TBC
We raised an incredible £835 and had great attendance on the day and followed on to the Huntsman & Hounds pub for drinks and a BBQ which was a great end to the day. The match was played out between 30 of our players split up, with some travelling from as far as Norwich to be a part of the day. It was a very fun game. It ended 5-1 to the greens and was very entertaining from good football to funny moments.
