Halesworth & Southwold Community News - September 2023

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Happy 21st Birthday Reggie!

Celebrating the 800th anniversary of Halesworth becoming a town

On September 2nd, Halesworth town and park will come alive to celebrate the 800th birthday of Halesworth officially becoming a Market Town. A free community event made possible by Halesworth Town Council and UKSPF - High Street Event grant scheme.

Please send any editorial from your local groups, clubs and events for the paper to edit@micropress.co.uk

Thanks

There will be something for everyone to enjoy during the celebrations, head to the Market Place for a mini market, face painting, crafts, pop-up pub, pancakes, Punch and Judy, history walks and live music. Wonder through the thoroughfare to spot the shields on our discovery trail, admirer the colourful flags and join in the parade, led by East Angles Brass. Drop into the memorial garden for a program

Valerie’s

of plays and music.

Whilst the town park will be transformed into a Medieval Camp with hog roast and ales, archery, cookery demos, scribe writing, fashion shows, storytelling, music and have a go activities. To top it all off, ABC Skateboarding will be running a games/skate tourney at the skate park.

Just before the school broke up for summer, Halesworth

Town Council teamed up with Black Knight Historical to bring a little medieval history to the local schools. Starting off with an informative assembly providing valuable insights into the significance of coats of arms and their creation during medieval times. Armed with their newfound knowledge, the students returned to their classrooms to create their own unique coat of arms. The school were full of energy and

excitement and some wonderful designs were created by all. All entries were entered into a competition and a winner was picked from each class to receive a prize from Halesworth Toy Shop. You will be able to see all the children designs in the Library and Town during the 800 celebrations. Check out Halesworth 800 on Facebook for a full program of the days activities.

Update from Halesworth Town Council

The consultation for the Community Hub is now complete and thank you to everyone who filled in surveys and talked to us through the consultation for a new community hub in Halesworth.

The Executive Summary of the findings can be found on the Town Council website under the 'Community Hub' heading and the full report is available on request. From what you told us in the surveys, we have a clear idea of what people want to see. A community hub for Halesworth will serve the town and the surrounding area. It will be a welcoming and accessible place for all. It will provide a versatile space for a range of users and uses. This will include delivering local services and space to meet others. It will meet the gaps in community provision

and be environmentally and financially sustainable. This is part of the Town Council's five year ambition.

The Halesworth 800 celebrations are fast approaching and this will be a great day for everyone with lots of opportunities to have a go and get involved. There will be a free park and ride operating from the Campus site (old middle school), Harrisons Lane with the HACT bus giving rides into town. The Park will be the site of a medieval encampment with knights in combat and other historical figures. The event officially opens at 10am, there will be a ceremonial reading of the market charter at 10:45am in the Market Place and the activities in the Park open from 11:30am. You can take part in the Goblet Trail through town and spot the 10

golden goblets hiding clues for you to collect. In the arboretum (war memorial garden), there will be a life-sized Punch and Judy style play by Circle 67 celebrating the story behind the carvings on the Ancient House in the Thoroughfare. This has been specially written for this event. There will be many activities throughout the day in the Park, Arboretum, Thoroughfare and Market Place.

The Town Council are pleased to welcome two new members of staff: Jennifer Jenkins as our new Admin Officer for the Council and Philippa Salvoni as the Marketing Coordinator for Halesworth. The Town Council will also be saying goodbye to our long serving Town Clerk, Nick Rees as he takes early retirement from the middle of September.

News from the Halesworth & District Gardeners' Society

Our monthly meetings resume on October 12th at the Rifle Hall in Halesworth.

We are fortunate to have in this area many gems. One of these less familiar to many is Carlton Marshes and we are fortunate enough to have Kevin Marland to tell us all about it.

Kevin is one of the volunteer wildlife guides on the marshes who are out most days either meeting people or leading walks, he says: "Think of us as walking notice boards!"

He's been volunteering at Carlton for about seven years,

New Autumn displays at Halesworth Museum

initially on the education side, working with school groups to introduce them to wildlife, and as a guide since 2019.

Highly recommended for anyone interested in wildlife. Doors open at 7:15pm for a 7:30pm start. All very welcome, entry just £2 for non-members.

Further information about the club is available on our Facebook page and our noticeboard outside Coopers. Alternatively, please call our secretary Brian Hammond on 01986 872712.

Halesworth & District U3A

Halesworth and District U3A are looking forward to Super September! Our U3A will be participating in the celebrations for Halesworth 800 and the Heritage weekend. Look out for our "Then and Now" displays of photographs in shop windows and in Halesworth Library. We will be in I-Chameleon from August 23rd to 30th where we will have representatives on hand every day to tell you about our U3A and our local history group.

For Heritage Day on September 16th, our local history group will be leading walks along Chediston Street. Our guides will explain the history of many of the houses and who lived there in times past. The walks will last about one hour and are free of charge

The Halesworth U3A

Members' summer outing will be a tour of Great Yarmouth on September 13th. We will be visiting the historic centre and several museums, and the day will end with a visit to the

Venetian Waterways and gardens.

On September 19th, we look forward to welcoming noted local historian David Wollweber who will tell us what he has discovered about the Halesworth witches in his talk entitled "The Halesworth Witches of 1645". This puzzling tale of superstition and persecution represents David's preliminary historical research into the two men and six women (from Halesworth and the surrounding villages) who were accused of witchcraft in 1645.

The presentation will be at The Cut Arts Centre on September 19th, starting at 2:30pm. The event is free to members, guests are very welcome to come along on payment of £4 for a guest ticket at The Cut Box Office.

There's always something interesting to do with Halesworth and District U3A. More information about membership can be found at: U3Asites.org. uk/halesworth/welcome.

Please note: There's no monthly meeting or coffee hour at The Cut in August.

Treasures found in our local fields will take pride of place in a new display at Halesworth & District Museum.

The central case in our main room is being handed over to metal detectorist David Steadman, who will show a selection of his fascinating finds from Wenhaston and other nearby villages. Although he's based in Norwich, David mainly does his detecting in Suffolk, and the fields in a 10-mile radius or so of Halesworth have proved to be a particularly rich hunting ground.

He strongly believes that communities should be able to see (and sometimes even handle) the historical artefacts that have lain hidden in their soil for many centuries.

"It's great to be able to have a display here at Halesworth, instead of all the items just sitting in the house, where no one can see them." - David.

David's enthusiasm for metal detecting goes back around 38 years, when he bought his first machine. But his fascination with historical objects goes back even further. "As a boy, living in Gorleston, I liked to visit the Roman fort at Burgh

Castle. I used to wander around the grounds finding Roman coins. That sparked my interest. Then I read about metal detecting, and joined my local club."

Since then, David's success as a detectorist has gone from strength to strength, with many important finds now housed at the British Museum. One of his favourites is a Henry III farthing, which he discovered on a beach between Kessingland and Southwold. He recalls that day: "It was winter, freezing cold, and I heard a tiny signal from the detector. I brushed the ground with my foot, and there it was." He later learnt that no other coin like it had ever been found, and his discovery changed the accepted views on Henry III coinage. "The British Museum was very excited" he says.

David's finds will go on show in mid-September, in place of our temporary display of children's toys.

Museum Curator Brian Howard comments: "It's exciting to have such a wide range of interesting objects unearthed so close to Halesworth. We're always keen to see locally found artefacts."

Halesworth WI report

Dave Rich entertained members with tales of his life as a London taxi driver and the history of the London cabs.

Starting out with the horse drawn hackney carriages, through to the motorised versions up to the modern cabs of the day, many of which are now electric.

Dave gained his licence the hard way... Spending three years riding around the city on a moped to learn the knowledge which all London cabbies have (as they're

known for their ability to find their way around London without resorting to maps or sat navs).

He told us of the famous people who have been his passengers, Richard Branson, Julian Clary and many others. His longest journey (London to Exeter), his largest tip and his most expensive trip. We were surprised to hear that the cabs are now made in China and arrive in kit form from Shanghai to be built in Coventry.

Also in September, we'll have a new display on the 17th century witch hunts, and we will resume our 2023 series of museum talks.

On September 21st, Dave Wollweber (Museum Trustee) will give a talk celebrating Halesworth's 800 years as a market town, exploring the importance of markets in town development and looking at significant economic, social and political events in the past 800 years that have helped shape the nature of Halesworth.

Then on October 19th, Kevin Wooldridge will explain how LiDAR (light detection and ranging) aerial imaging

has uncovered evidence of past landscapes in Halesworth. Both talks will take place at the United Reformed Church, Quay Street, Halesworth, IP19 8EP, starting at 7:30pm (doors open at 7pm). Entrance costs £6 (£3 for Museum Friends). There's no need to book, just pay at the door.

The boating lake and the newly-restored Venetian Waterways at Great Yarmouth

David Steadman holding one of the new exhibits, a 13th/14th century griffinshaped pommel for a sword or dagger.

An update from Halesworth Angel Bowls Club

It seems strange to report that 60% of the outdoor season is over. Halesworth Angel Bowls Club made an uncertain start with a number of accomplished players leaving but membership

swelled after an open day in April. Novices with a leavening of more experienced players have not disgraced themselves in two area leagues and are looking forward to a bigger involvement next season.

The club ran a very successful Gala Day on July 9th. Over 20 bowlers took to the green to battle it out in a friendly challenge organised by Mick Burnside. A number of interested spectators

watched the proceedings. The weather wasn't kind and the competition had to be shortened to 10 ends. Surprise, surprise!

Two of the oldest members (Ron Davis and John Wakefield) were overall winners and Gary Lindsay won the prosecco for the nearest to the jack in the spider.

Fabulous food was organised by Sandy Lindsay and there was a wonderful raffle. Jan Cheese and Liz Headley, new to the game this season were awarded the prize for showing the most improvement. The occasion was so successful that we are holding Super Sunday Roll Up at 1pm on August 27th where registered club members will compete in an Aussie Pairs tournament.

In memoriam

Maurice Gilbert

The funeral of Maurice Gilbert took place at Blythburgh Parish Church on July 18th and he was laid to rest at Halesworth Cemetery.

U3A ukulele band with Sue, our Vice-Chair

Halesworth branch of Cancer Research

We hired the I-Chameleon shop for a week in July for the first time. We didn't quite know what to expect or how successful it would be, but we had a great time and it was very successful even though some of the shop volunteers and customers got a little damp at times.

cancer, or better, less-invasive treatments. We'd like to thank everyone who baked for us on Saturday. The cakes and savouries we received were amazing and totally delicious and sold out very quickly. Thank you Phyllis, Gill and Paula for coping with the rush of customers.

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The shop was very busy and the extra stalls we had outside each day proved very popular, especially the Friday plant stall with Jane Bastow, the Saturday cake stall and an outstanding performance by the U3A ukulele band on Tuesday morning. The ukelele band not only raised £147.51, but lifted everyone's spirits with their colourful shirts and lively music.

Thank you to Jane Bastow from The Laburnums for agreeing to have a very successful plant stall for us. Jane opens her garden several times a year so please look out for this and go along and enjoy her garden.

who offered to help. You are a brilliant team. We have a bit of a rest in August, but on September 1st, we are having another new event! The Old Hall Café and Maize Maze, Southwold are hosting a 'Maze by Torchlight' evening for us from 6:30pm-9:30pm. As it's a Friday and still school holidays, we hope that lots of children will come to enjoy the experience. They will have the use of the play equipment (weather permitting for some of the attractions) included in the entrance fee.

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Thank you to the U3A ukulele band for giving up their time and entertaining us so beautifully. Thank you Sue for suggesting this.

Our committee and volunteers will have some stalls and we hope to have some simple fun games for everyone to enjoy. The café will be open serving light snacks and drinks.

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Thank you so much to everyone who visited the shop during the week and supported us. You raised a magnificent £2,162.80. The committee and volunteers are truly grateful for your generosity and continuing support for all of our fundraising activities.

Blyth Road Industrial Estate, Halesworth, IP19 8EN

Thank you to Durrants Estate Agents for making our week in the shop so much easier and for their generous tombola prize donation.

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Maurice experienced and achieved so much in his 95 years. He lived a very active life and loved all sports, but particularly tennis and bowls. He dedicated lots of his time playing bowls for Halesworth Angels and Sole Bay Southwold and had much success. Maurice also enjoyed many holidays over the years with his late wife Joan and they travelled to many places around the world. For the last six months of his life, Maurice was a resident at Chevington Lodge and this is where he passed away peacefully. He will by greatly missed by all of his family, including his three daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Having the shop gave us the opportunity to talk to people and sadly so many people spoke of their families being affected by cancer. The work done at Cancer Research is so important as they continue to develop new tests...

A huge thank you to Bob and Maggie, Woodside Farm, we absolutely couldn't have even thought about having the shop with out your input. You made it all possible. Thank you to all the people who gave us donations during the week.

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They are extremely generously donating all the entrance fees to us so come along and enjoy a fun evening and don't forget your torches.

For more information please contact Dawn Davis (Chair) on 01986 873640.

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Finally from me, thank you to all the committee members and volunteers who helped during the week and I am so sorry that I had to disappoint some of you

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Closeboard Fencing Components: Feather Edge, Cant Rails, Gravel Boards and Rebated Capping

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Sheet Material: OSB & Plywood Machine Round Stakes

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Pear Tree Fund and Dee's Den charity shop

The Pear Tree Centre in Halesworth continues to offer support, information, counselling, complementary therapies and benefits advice to anyone who's been diagnosed with a life-changing illness, their families/carers and those who have been bereaved.

If you're interested in accessing our services, you're welcome to drop in and speak with a member of staff or contact us via email or phone. We also work alongside the statutory and voluntary sector to help provide extra equipment and enhanced care in the last days of life. Our aim is to offer emotional, physical and practical support to meet the individual needs of the person and their family, and to give them a choice of where they receive their care as they near the end of their life.

The team at the centre are also able to support young people aged between 12-18 who are dealing with their own or a family member's life-changing diagnosis or who are coping with bereavement. As well as this, we work alongside schools and other statutory and voluntary services, whilst providing one-to-one and family support as well as counselling and group therapy.

Many thanks this month

go to Jacqui Piper for her kind donation, and to Jenne Foulger and Ian Last for their kind contribution following their charity open studios and afternoon teas.

Still to come in our calendar:

• September 1st: Annual Golf Day at Halesworth Golf Club. (There's still time to enter our Golf Day, please contact Ted Edwards on 07949 418816 if you'd like to sign up).

• September 16th/17th:

Henham Steam Rally.

• October 18th-25th: Annual pop-up shop at iChameleon, the Thoroughfare, Halesworth.

• December 14th: Coffee morning at Holton Village Hall. Following the success of our 'Hopes and Dreams' project (a reminiscence project for people with dementia and their carers), we're running another group starting in the new year. Over the course of nine sessions, you will explore your lives from childhood to the present day with fun, music, laughter and new friendships along the way. At the end of the project, you'll have made a book about your life to enjoy and share with your family. If you're interested in joining this group, please contact The Pear Tree Centre for further information.

Dee's Den Charity Shop: With our disappointing summer weather so far, we've now reduced our summer stock, ready hopefully for the weather to improve and the sun to shine!

You are all welcome at Dee's Den to come in and browse for that special bargain!

We're open: Monday and Thursday 10am-1pm, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday open until 2pm and on Wednesday, we're open until 3pm.

Come and take a look!

We have clothes for all ages, shoes, sandals and accessories, jewellery, belts, games, jigsaws, toys and books galore. We also have bedding, curtains, bric-abrac, glassware, kitchenware, pictures, photo frames, plants and homemade jam and marmalade.

Thank you Jenny and Anne.

Our £1 clothes rail of reduced items is outside (weather permitting) with a 50p rail of children's clothes, our bargain basket of bits and pieces and also reduced priced books.

We welcome donations of clean saleable items. Small donation amounts can be dropped off at the shop when we're open. We particularly need more bric-a-brac. So, if you're turning out cupboards and drawers, please consider

donating to us. If there are lots of donations, please deliver on a Monday or Thursday morning to the sorting end of the shop where we have extra volunteers on duty.

If you're unable to deliver, we can collect.

We have an amazing team of willing volunteers who work in the shop, donating their time to the charity. If you're interested in volunteering, do call in and leave your number, so we can get in touch with you. A special thank you to Valda, for your themed displays in the chimney insert in the shop, always a point of interest.

To contact Dee's Den, please phone Nikki on: 07733 668221.

If you're interested in receiving our monthly newsletter (which includes a diary of upcoming events and information about how the money raised for us is used), please visit: www. peartreefund.org. To contact The Pear Tree Centre, email: info@peartreefund.org or call: 01986 899655.

Salvias really come into their own at this time of year.

Autumn is in the air

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They made it! On July 24th, Giles Scoble (son-in-law of our patron, Paddy Cox) and his friend Simon Taylor completed their cycle ride from St. David's in Wales to Lowestoft Ness, an unsupported run of over 450 miles.

(off the B1117 in Ubbeston, near Laxfield)

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(off the B1117 in Ubbeston, near Laxfield)

Their journey went very well, though on Saturday 22nd, they had to cycle 107 miles in continuous rain. On Sunday 23rd, they were greeted by a large group of family, friends, and members of the Halesworth Dementia Carers Fund (HDCF) committee. So far, they've raised

well in excess of £3,000. Half will go to Pancreatic Cancer Action and the other half is coming to HDCF. We are so grateful to these two incredible riders for undertaking such an epic journey to support our work.

Film Show: Our next film (to be shown on September 20th) will be 'The Englishman who went up a hill but came down a mountain', starring Hugh Grant. As usual, the film will commence at 2pm sharp, and admission is by £5 donation.

We do thank everyone who turns up to support our film shows.

i-Chameleon Shop: This will be open from July 31st to September 6th. We would be most grateful for donations of things we can sell, but please, no clothing or shoes.

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Summer is drawing to a close and autumn is just around the corner... What a perfect time to think about your garden successes and mentally plan for next year. It's also around now that you can start harvesting some seeds from your favourite plants. Why buy packets of seeds every year when you can simply collect them from your own plants or those of your friends?

Thrifty tip for the month is: Save seeds from summer flowers. Growing plants from your own seeds is satisfying and exciting. Not only is it easy to do, but it saves a bit of cash producing flowers for the garden that you can share with friends.

Always collect seeds from healthy plants on a dry day. Pick seed heads as they turn from green to brown then lie them in a tray in a greenhouse or on a warm windowsill or airing cupboard until the seedpods open easily. You will need to remove husks and other debris before storing. To store seeds until spring, use small paper packets, label them and keep in an airtight container. Some seeds are easier than others. For instance, columbines, love-in-the-mist, poppies and foxgloves you can simply tip, shake or split the seed capsule onto a piece of paper and collect the seeds. Smaller, finer seeds that are harder to extract can be rubbed through a fine sieve over a piece of paper. Seeds are often collected as a kind of plant insurance policy.

Some plants (like Salvias) are not completely hardy, so it's good to save some seeds in case your original plants don't survive the winter. Salvias really come into their own at this time of year though, when their spikes of flowers combine beautifully with other classic later bloomers such

as Asters. And Salvias tick a lot of boxes: Drought tolerant, low maintenances, pest and disease resistant as well as being loved by pollinators. They grow best in full sun and well drained soil and as a general rule, the smaller the leaves, the more drought and wind tolerant they are. Relative newcomer Amistad (with rich purple flowers that show from May through to November) has quickly become a best seller; the inimitable 'Hot Lips' with its red and white flowers is a hardy, compact, scented, bushy plant; whilst 'Viola Klose' has radiant violet flower spires and is an excellent alternative to Lavender. Asters, like Salivas, also have long flowering period. Sometimes known as Michaelmas Daisies, Asters are much loved by pollinators and gardeners alike due to their daisy-like flowers and late-season colour. Most are perennials lasting years in borders and beds. However, during prolonged dry spells, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) suggests additional watering as the height of an aster can vary from year to year according to the amount of water it has received.

September jobs on the RHS Gardener's Checklist:

Plant spring-flowering bulbs. Pot up Christmas hyacinths.

• Leave perennial seedheads for wildlife.

• Lift tender plants and pot up, overwinter in cool place.

• Harvest and store potatoes. Harvest apples. Sow winter salads. Bring house plants indoors.

• Divide alpine plants.

• Create some autumn interest containers.

Halesworth Area Community Transport

Summer events happening at Halesworth Library

It's been a very busy summer at the library so far and our summer holiday events are going very well. It's not too late to join in!

'Ready, Set, Read' summer reading challenge

All children aged 4-11 years are encouraged to take part in the challenge, to read six books, collecting stickers and prizes as they read. It's lots of fun and there are treasure hunts and activities in the library for our younger readers. Children can still sign up for the challenge which runs until September 10th.

Hoppa news

Halesworth Area Community Transport would like to welcome our new Driver Trainer, Chris Chapman, who joined us earlier this year to oversee the training of new drivers and refresher courses for existing drivers. Chris joins us from Southwold and is a driver and trainer for Sole Bay Community Bus.

What we'd like now is to have more drivers come and join us to help deliver our regular services around Halesworth and Holton, as well as the many Community Hires we are asked to provide to a wide variety of destinations.

As summer moves into autumn, there's always other demands on drivers' time, including holidays and family duties, as children and grandchildren return to school and college. Having several drivers enables us to fulfil our regular schedules, and offer numerous local groups a chance to enjoy social activities near and far. We'd especially like drivers

who are happy to do late evening hires as many of these continue after midnight and can be difficult to resource. If you're still working and feel you can't offer the time to drive the morning Hoppa, these weekend evening hires may be more to your liking.

To find out more about driving the Hoppa, either for the regular schedule, or for oneoff Community Hires, please contact the office at: Halesworth Area Community Transport, Railway Station, Station Road, Halesworth, Suffolk, IP19 8BZ. You can call: 01986 875900, email: office@hactbus.co.uk or visit: www.hactbus.co.uk.

Finally, remember that even though the Hoppa is a regular bus service for all, passengers can phone ahead and request a pick-up or drop-off if they have problems getting to the usual route. We may not be able to meet all requests, according to the time required, or distance from the normal route, but we will do our best.

The celebration for children who have completed the challenge will be held on September 21st from 4pm-6pm.

We still have tickets left for our summer holiday activities for children aged 3-11 years.

Our Wednesday afternoon events have been very popular and well-attended. There are still tickets available for the following events. Tickets are £1 per child and booking is essential, just pop along to the library for more information and your tickets.

• August 23rd, 3pm-4pm: The Tricky Twister Magic Show and Balloon Twisting Workshop.

• August 30th, 2pm-4pm: Horsey Antics with Redwings Horse Sanctuary.

'Blank Pages' project:

There are spaces left on the final sessions of our 'Blank Pages' project, a series of creative workshops for 10-16 year olds.

Teenagers from 10-16 years old have been having fun in the library at our free creative workshops as part of the Blank Pages project! The days run from 10am-3pm, include lunch and snacks and are open and free to

all students. Our final workshops are with Poppy Stevens (a spoken word poet and theatre artist) and are on August 21st and 25th. Visit: www.suffolklibraries. co.uk/whats-on/annual-events/ blank-page for more information and to book your place.

PAWS-itivity

Raising Pounds with Hounds:

Our library Labrador has arrived! This summer, every library in Suffolk has a dog sculpture for you to enjoy. Suffolk Libraries is a charity and PAWSitivity is our latest and biggest fundraising campaign.

The Labrador reflects the library as warm and welcoming to everyone, non-judgemental and always there when you need them. Our Labrador is called 'Readador' and has been decorated by artist Marjoke Henrichs, who is best known for her book illustrations including 'Ready! Said Rabbit'. Readador (who's been supported by the Friends of Halesworth Library) celebrates the joy of reading and all the little dogs have their noses buried in her books. Pop into the library to meet our Labrador and find out more about PAWS-itivity.

Regular activities:

• Wordplay: For babies, toddlers, parents, and carers on Tuesday mornings from 10am-11:30am. Young and old can make new friends and enjoy music and games together.

• Family Fun: Looking for something to do with the children at the weekend? Look no further than our children's activities on Saturdays 10am4pm and 'Family Fun Time' on Sundays from 11am-12:30pm. All are welcome to drop in for

board games, craft activities and Lego.

• Knit & Natter, Craft & Chatter: We host a friendly and inclusive group for all who enjoy making and socialising. The group meets upstairs at the library every first and third Tuesday afternoon, our next get-togethers are on September 5th and 19th from 2pm-4pm.

• Time Out: There's lots to enjoy at our Time Out sessions on Wednesday mornings, 10am11:30am, and it's a good place to meet new people. Join us for crafts, chat, and free refreshments.

• Citizens Advice East Suffolk: Offer free drop-in advice sessions on 1st and 3rd Tuesday mornings in the library office. The next sessions are on September 5th and 19th from 10am-12pm. Come along and take advantage of their free

advice and support during these difficult times.

• East Suffolk Council: Drop-in for digital advice, Tuesdays 10am-4pm. Drop in for help with online Council services, energy bills, benefit applications etc.

• Barclays Bank Drop-in: Weekly drop-in session from 9am-5pm every Wednesday, offering help with money management, finances, business support and home loans. Working alongside the Friends of Halesworth Library we offer a wide range of activities: Events organised by the Friends of Halesworth Library:

• Sociable Sundays: September 10th and 24th from 10:30am12:30pm. Drop in to enjoy a hot drink, cake and a chat. A pleasant way to spend an hour or two and make new friends.

£1 suggested donation. No need to book, just turn up.

• Board Games Café: September 25th from 2pm-4pm. There are lots of games to choose from, both old favourites and ones you may not have seen before! No previous skill required. Come along and enjoy tea and cake and a guaranteed fun afternoon. £1 suggested donation. No need to book, just turn up.

To join the Friends of Halesworth Library you will need to complete a membership form, which can be obtained by emailing: friendsofhalesworthlibrary@ gmail.com or by phoning the library. Further details of all our activities are available from the library, by email: halesworth. library@suffolklibraries.co.uk or phone: 01986 875095. We look forward to seeing you!

Our new Driver Trainer, Chris Chapman

Readador

Neat Feet

HOOKER HOUSE

DENTAL PRACTICE

Serving

Meet Carole, our recentlycrowned "Woman of the Year"

Carole always felt like the "short, dumpy friend", having had weight issues for as long as she could remember.

This was exacerbated in 2019 after taking early retirement and then being diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumaticia, an inflammatory disorder needing a daily dose of steroids and strong painkillers too!

Quay

Carole before (top left) and after her amazing weight loss, posing with her 'Woman of the Year' certificate

Feeling tired and spaced out with the medication, Carole struggled with walking any great distance. Further health problems with shingles, sciaticia and Piriformas Syndrome added to Carole's misery,

severely impacted family life and her weight ballooned!

Carole heard about the OneLifeSuffolk referral scheme, fitted the qualifying criteria and was able to join our friendly morning group with 12 weeks free slimming!

We always ask if there's a particular reason why they've joined: Carole wanted to be able to be able to bend over and paint her toenails without getting breathless!

She discovered that by joining Slimming World, she could eat real family friendly food (and lots of it!) without having to count a single calorie. She could still socialise with family and friends, enjoy meals out and, through staying to group each week, learn lots of helpful hints and tips to help her weight loss journey and find out more about herself as a slimmer too.

With the support and encouragement from the group, Carole is now close to achieving her Personal Target weight, being almost four stone lighter and now enjoys being able to paint her toenails! She's also looking forward to her forthcoming holiday and is hoping passport control will query her passport photo as she now looks nothing like the one taken two years ago when she had to renew it!

The

For

For more information about the 12-week free referral, please visit onelifesuffolk. co.uk and follow "Adult Weight Management".

If reading this has encouraged you to get started on your own weight loss journey, then come along to one of our friendly Halesworth groups. We meet at the Rifle Hall, Halesworth, IP19 8LR, every Tuesday - 9:30am, 5:30 and 7pm and I'd love to support you.

For more information, including details of joining offers please contact Bev Hansey 07912 849995 or just come along to the Rifle Hall on the day, just before the times listed. No booking required.

Slimming World

Norfolk Open Studios

An audience with Mark Murphy MBE

BBC Radio Suffolk legend, Mark Murphy MBE, is helping to raise funds for a local community radio station in October, when he makes a rare appearance, telling the fascinating story of his incredible career.

The event is being held at Sizewell Sports and Social Club in Leiston, on October 27th at 7:30pm.

Mark left BBC Radio Suffolk in April, due to cuts that will seriously effect BBC local broadcasting. He did so after 33 years of successful and awardwinning broadcasting.

During his time at the station, he's presented the Breakfast Show for 17 years, won Sony Radio awards, fronted several highly-successful campaigns and in 2021, was awarded a welldeserved MBE. He was involved in several campaigns, with his 'Don't be a Tosser' campaign helping to raise the profile of the state of litter on the roads and the 'Treehouse Appeal', that led to the development of the Ipswich Children's Hospice, has always been his highlight.

Mark's tell-all evening will

cover his Hospital Radio days and big break in joining Radio Suffolk in 1990, to winning awards, reporting on powerful local news stories, campaigning, and saying farewell to those 4am alarm calls! The talk will be followed by an opportunity for the audience to ask Mark questions.

In addition, the evening will also include a special appearance by hilarious Revd. Paul Pitt, who appeared on Mark's show every Sunday morning, for a humorous conversation about the week's events.

The event has been organised to raise funds towards Alde and Blyth Community (ABC) Radio's new studios. The community station was launched in April, 2021 as a weekend-only service initially and is planning to extend into weekday evenings soon and eventually becoming a full sevenday service.

For more information about the station and its programming schedule, visit: www.abcradio. co.uk. Tickets for Mark's talk

(£10) are limited and available from the Sizewell Sports and Social Club by calling: 01728 830025.

Local artists to welcome visitors into their studios

Makers and creators from across South Norfolk are preparing to open their studio doors to share their creative processes.

The artists will be opening their studio doors as part of Norfolk Open Studios. The free event will see more than 165 artists taking part throughout the county and in South Norfolk, more than 20 artists will be sharing and selling their work. Artists will be at work in their

studios, garages, spare rooms, garden rooms, community spaces and schools sharing how they work. Artists at all stages of their careers will be taking part, from school and college students through to emerging artists and established and professional creators and makers.

Visitors will find painters, ceramicists, print makers, woodworkers, sculptors, textile artists, jewellers, photographers, furniture makers, metal workers

and lots more throughout the varied landscapes of Norfolk.

Sculptor Andy Jarrett (pictured above) is based in Rockland St. Mary, he said: "I take part in Norfolk Open Studios because it's such a wonderful and profound arts event. It's part of my yearly calendar, and it's also an important income for me as a full-time artist. I'm very excited about taking part in this year's event, it's a real highlight for me, I have regular customers who I've built up a really good relationship with and I also get to meet lots of new people. I also love being part of the wider artist community and I have taken part for many years now. I make sculpture for garden spaces, mainly in steel, inspired by nature. My studio is central to my practice, it's an exciting and authentic space with lots going on, a visual treat with lots of sculpture to see, it's my experiment lab!"

Art Trails will also be in place across the county, allowing visitors to enjoy several studios and local attractions in one day.

In South Norfolk, the Langley School is taking part with an exhibition of current work from both the Senior and Prep Schools, set in the Senior School Art Department. One art trail has been organised by artists, the Boudicca Way Art Trail will take in five

artists throughout Framingham Earl, Stoke Holy Cross, Brooke and Woodton.

Throughout the duration of Norfolk Open Studios, artists will be offering additional events, demonstrations and workshops to share their skills and practice. In South Norfolk, there will be a textiles workshop, introduction to acrylics, autumn acrylics workshop, mark making and stitching event and a clay and ornament workshop.

Studios are free to visit and much of the work will be for sale. All details, including studio opening days, directions, art trails and additional events and demonstrations, can be found in the Norfolk Open Studios brochure and on the event's website.

The Arboretum Gallery in Heckingham will be hosting a South Norfolk preview exhibition. Open between September 2nd and 10th, a visit will reveal a showcase of the artists taking part in the South Norfolk area. The Arboretum Gallery is a collaborative project from a group of furniture makers looking to promote their own designs and the use of native and local timbers, with a focus on contemporary furniture. Brochures can be picked up from Tourist Information Centres, libraries, cafés and various art venues across Norfolk.

Norfolk Open Studios will take place between September 23rd and October 8th. A preview exhibition will take place between August 15th and 20th at The Forum in Norwich, showcasing artwork by this year's Norfolk Open Studios artists from across the county. Enjoy an exciting and diverse exhibition and plan for your Open Studios visits. For more information, visit: www.norfolkstudios.org.uk

Image credit: Luke Witcomb

Sculptor, Andy Jarrett (Rockland St. Mary) creates metal figurative and abstract sculptures for garden spaces and interiors.

BACT seeking weekend volunteer drivers for growing transport demand

Beccles Area Community Transport (BACT) are receiving a growing number of requests for transport at the weekends. The organisation provides transport for people who cannot easily access public transport, whether that be due to a lack of provision or for accessible reasons.

Many of these requests are for medical and hospital appointments to local medical centres and both James Paget and Norfolk and Norwich University hospitals.

Volunteer drivers are also needed to transport passengers to their surgeries/pharmacies for Covid vaccinations and blood tests.

Do you have spare time in your day to take someone to attend such appointments? Not all journeys are for medical purposes. Maybe you could find time to take someone to visit their loved one in a nearby nursing home or hospice? BACT also have young people who are keen to attend groups and sports clubs and partake in activities such as football and rugby training.

Volunteer drivers are often extremely busy throughout the week. With the growing number of weekend requests, it's proving challenging to fulfil the demand with the current resources.

Debbie Blowers (Manager) said: "We are mindful of people being forced to cancel and postpone vital appointments due to a lack of transport. We have wonderful volunteers who volunteer a lot during the week, so we can't expect them to give up more of their time at weekends. Just doing one transport run in a weekend can help us enormously without intruding too much on a person's weekend."

BACT Volunteer Drivers all receive training and receive a mileage allowance. They require an enhanced DBS certification, which is managed through BACT. Drivers can opt to use their own vehicles or those belonging to BACT.

New Volunteer Driver, Mike Orves said: "My time with BACT has really given me a great deal of satisfaction. One of my first passengers was a lady who I took to the hairdressers. When I picked her up, she looked so happy to see me and to show me her new hair-do. The smile on her face will stay with me for a long while. It gave me a real sense of satisfaction that I had played a part in making that person so happy."

Richard Bassett (Volunteer Driver) added: "I have enjoyed the whole experience. From

Reydon Show 2023: A spectacular celebration of creativity and produce, despite the weather!

walking in to the BACT office followed by basic formalities and liaising with amazing office staff to starting to drive a few months ago. Not once have I regretted my decision. I recognise every aspect is as good as can be from advising BACT of the hours I am available for on a weekly basis, to the kindly consideration and organisation of the office staff. Above all, I am enjoying the getting about and stimulation of company I wouldn't have otherwise met.

Passengers, who are not strangers for long, often remark on how very useful community transport is. So, I never regret a moment, quite the opposite!"

If you'd like to find out more, please call: 01986 896896 or visit: www.bactcommunity transport.org.uk

This years Reydon Show was brilliantly attended with lots of people entering across the categories and large numbers coming to see all the lovely entries. With last year's heatwave well behind us, we had a great number of entries across the fruit and vegetable classes, though the heavy rain made some of the cut flower classes tricky! The categories that were less weather-dependent proliferated and it was amazing to see all the baked goods, art, photography and handicrafts. The kids creativity was delightful

Halesworth Harmony

and we'd encourage even more children to enter the free kids' categories next year. They can enter any arts and craft including 3D models and Lego! There will also be new kids cookery and gardening categories next year. So, when you are planning your 2024 planting or embarking on some arts and crafts remember the first Saturday in August will be the Reydon Show next year!

2023 trophy winners:

• Ernest Moyse Memorial Trophy, Most outstanding exhibit in flower classes: K Eagles.

• Challenge Cup (Open), Most

Our re-launched choir!

Concerned that the name "Halesworth Community Choir" did not fully reflect the type of choir that we are, we have re-launched ourselves as "Halesworth Harmony". We sing an eclectic mix of world music in three or four-part harmony. We're also fortunate to have worked with, and commissioned, contemporary British composers. Our professional musical director encourages us to sing to a high standard.

We are a friendly and supportive choir, welcoming all singers without an audition. There's no need to be able to read music as songs are taught by ear and recordings are available for home practice. We perform locally at a range of community

events and also organise our own concerts at The Cut Arts Centre in Halesworth and at other local venues, sometimes in collaboration with other choirs or musical groups.

The choir meets approximately fortnightly on Sunday mornings, 10:30am-12:30pm, usually at The Cut. There's an interval to chat and make new friends.

Our autumn term starts on September 3rd for choir members taking part in the Halesworth Heritage Open Day on Saturday September 16th. This involves a short performance at 6:15pm on the Millennium Green. If you'd like to come and see us, we'd love to meet you.

We're also actively seeking more members to join us to learn

points in vegetable and fruit section: C Akers.

• Garden News Shield (Reydon residents only), Most points in vegetable and fruit section: C Akers.

• Charlie Martin Cup (Reydon residents only), Runner-up in vegetable and fruit section: C Wigg.

• Fitzgerald Cup, Most points in flower section: Kay Eagles.

• Frances Moyse Memorial Trophy, Most outstanding exhibit in vegetable classes: Roger Webb.

• Silver Plate, Most points in cookery classes: C Livermore.

• Reydon Show Trophy, Best exhibit in adult handicraft: C Clark.

• Reg Belcher Trophy, Most points in handicraft: C Clark.

• Copperwheat Trophy, Best exhibit in pot plant classes: Y Eady.

• Reydon Parish Council Shield (Reydon residents only), Best exhibit in cookery classes: N Horton.

• Sam Adamson Cup, Best exhibit in photography classes: C Horton.

• Dillon Gibbon Trophy, Most points in photography classes: P Harrild.

a new programme of songs for a concert next year. Rehearsals start on Sunday 24th September, 10:30am-12:30pm, at The Cut.

We look forward to welcoming

you to a free taster session. For more information and details of rehearsal dates, please email: halesworth.harmony@ gmail.com.

Halesworth's 'Super September' filled with events!

September is going to be a busy month in Halesworth! A packed line up of events kicks off with the Halesworth 800 celebrations and ends with a thought-provoking climate action conference.

Halesworth 800

September 2nd

The Town Council is organising a fun day to celebrate Halesworth's 800th birthday (the signing of the Market Charter 1223). There will be lots going on: Medieval re-enactors in the park, knights, archery, an executioner, storytelling, music, plays, street entertainers, a parade through the town using banners designed by local schoolchildren, trails round the town, stalls in the market place, competitions, face painting, a Punch & Judy show and much more besides... including a re-enacting of the signing of the Market Charter.

Halesworth Heritage

Happening

September

9th, 10th and 16th

Halesworth Heritage

Happening 2023 (our contribution to the national Heritage Open Days (HODs) festival administered by the National Trust) takes place over the weekend of September 9th-10th, followed by a full programme of events on September 16th. Following hard on the heels of Halesworth 800, this is very much a time to celebrate our town's heritage and history.

The national HODs group has this year chosen 'Creativity

Unwrapped' as its theme and many of our events celebrate this, beginning with an open house event and 'Inspired by Walpole Old Chapel', an exhibition of artworks relating to the Chapel as well as a creative workshop.

On September 16th at The Cut, we will be screening a selection of films of the town's past from the Halesworth Museum archives. We hope this event might encourage Halesworth residents to dig out their own home movies to add to the archive. Whether it

be sporting or arts events, festive occasions, local industries or anything else that in some way captures a moment in time in the town's life, the museum would love to hear from you.

We are staying outdoors for much of our programme with fascinating guided and self-guided walks and tours, culminating in 'Twilight songs and evening stroll'. On Millennium Green, the Halesworth Community Choir will greet the twilight with songs of Vaughan Williams and then volunteers from the Green will unwrap a walk through some of the less travelled areas on the Green. Look out for moths and bats along the way and if we're really lucky the Green's resident owls might be hunting.

St. Mary's Church plays a big part in the HODs day on September 16th with guided tours, exhibitions and talks. It will be open 9am-5pm with light refreshments available.

The church will be the setting for displays from Halesworth Camera Club, Beccles Camera Club and examination and coursework by pupils of Bungay High School; art from Artbox Exploring the imagination and Mencap The voice of learning disability and Lark Images photography and handmade books inspired by nature by Chris and Valerie Wheeler.

There will also be a display of original art work from Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll to Alice Through the Pillar Box, by local artist, writer and philatelist, Gerald King, from his imaginative creation of the stamps and postal history of Wonderland. At 2pm, Gerald King will answer questions about his work.

The St. Mary's programme continues throughout the day with bell ringing, guided tours, a visit by the Repair Café, an exhibition of English royal heraldry for coronation year and, at 3pm, Alan Greening will give a short talk on the regeneration of St. Mary's, discussing the effects

of the ingress of rainwater on the fabric of the building.

See the Halesworth Heritage Happening brochure enclosed with this copy of Community News for the full programme.

Regeneration of St. Mary's Church: Exhibition of Proposals

September 9th-October 1st

You are invited to visit St. Mary's to give your views, opinions and suggestions during the exhibition of the vision, challenges and proposals. The PCC, Friends and Steering Group are working to re-establish the interior of St. Mary's as a regionally significant, aweinspiring, community hub of heritage.

The building will be expected to express spirituality, sanctuary and creativity generally. It will reference the town's brewing history and Blyth Valley location specifically, incorporating the Hookers with their Kew connection, George Lansbury's efforts for social justice and the Buxton anti-slavery campaigns.

Five major projects will be incorporated: heating, lighting and insulation; kitchen, toilets and storage; flooring; a suitable organ that is sustainable; and heritage care, including the bells, the ringing chamber and tower repair and maintenance.

On completion the aim will be a regionally significant, low maintenance and environmentally aware, accessible and provisioned, central exhibition space and performance venue, not too far from car parking and public transport, part of the thriving market town of Halesworth.

Autumn Gardens

September 9th

11am-4:30pm

Halesworth in Bloom are pleased to announce a small selection of Autumn Gardens open to view. From an extensive waterside garden to a pretty modern courtyard garden, come and enjoy their early September colours. Free Garden Guide

Maps (including opening times and accessibility info) will be available from the Library or the Angel. No entry charges, donations welcome on the day. With many thanks to those generously opening their garden gates.

Halesworth to Southwold

Narrow Gauge Railway

Open Day

September 10th

10:30am-4pm

Blythburgh Station

The Halesworth to Southwold Railway opened in 1879 and closed in 1929. It connected the growing resort of Southwold, and the villages along the Blyth Valley, with the main line at Halesworth, using engineering creativity to choose a very unusual three-foot gauge, to provide satisfactory freight and passenger provision while keeping costs down.

It used many wagons and coaches with the Cleminson's patent flexible wheelbase, a creative invention which allowed lightweight rolling stock to traverse sharp curves. Also creative (in engineering and in aesthetic terms) were the tramway-style coaches which allowed access without a platform, and the double-armed signals which were safe but lowcost.

On September 10th, the Halesworth to Southwold Narrow Gauge Railway CIO will be opening Blythburgh station which is gradually being restored by volunteers from total dereliction. The last original railway building (the award winning Goods Shed) will be open, and a display of found artefacts for archaeology on the site is inside. The restored main line and sidings, and the adjacent platform as well as the restored foundations of the station building, can be examined. This day will also mark the launch of our battery-electric locomotive into service - it will be the first time any locomotive has operated on the railway's main line since 1929 (the loco is operational but

still under restoration). We can't provide rides yet!

There will also be a large live steam model railway, and in the adjacent Village Hall more model railways, a display of the work done and planned, railway books and DVDs, and light refreshments. There is some parking on-site with an overflow parking area a short walk away. The entire event is free (including the tea, coffee and cake) donations are gratefully received. Sleepers for the restored track in the station can be sponsored on the day and sponsors' names will be permanently displayed. Blythburgh Station can be found off the A12 in Blythburgh village, turn opposite the White Hart pub.

Climate Action Conference

September 29th-October 1st

St. Mary's Church

This three day event will explore how climate change will impact Halesworth and surrounding villages, and what we as communities and individuals can do about it. The weekend begins with a panel discussion on September 29th, 6:30pm-9:30pm) alongside an exhibition showcasing local projects both large and small.

September 30th will be a day of workshops and exchanging ideas with topics including regional policy and plans by church, state and trusts; active community projects; and real life examples of practical changes that we can make at home. The conference winds up on October 1st with Celebration of Creation, a church service at St. Mary's. This will be followed by 'wild picnics' and closing entertainment.

A word from our Latitude competition winner!

We ran a competition in May and June across our social media accounts and website to win tickets to this years' Latitude festival. We had over 700 entries! Thank you to everyone who entered! The lucky winner was Leah Knee. She had an amazing time and sent us in this message:

"We had a great Latitude weekend! Our highlights were Pulp, Jarvis Cocker was absolutely fantastic! Along with Sophie Ellis Bexter, the Proclaimers and Ikarus. We also loved the comedy tent, in

particular Ed Gamble and Kerry Godliman. Another highlight was lake swimming and all the different stuff going on in the trailer park. We danced into the earlier hours at Massioke followed by Club De Fromage. A great weekend, luckily not spoilt by the amount of rain on Saturday! Once again - thanks for tickets!" - Leah Knee

Make sure to keep an eye out on our social medias to see any other competitions we run in the future. You've got to be in it to win it!

www.yourcommunitynews.co.uk

PRIVATE

It's no secret that at Community News, we love our high streets and are proud to champion the many fantastic local businesses you will find when you have a wander around our towns and villages. The high street is the backbone or our local economy and plays a vital role in our sense of community.

The Community News has

been celebrating our local businesses for more than 50 years and we won't stop! With changing trends, our independent, artisan, boutique retailers, producers and suppliers need our support as much as ever. There are many great reasons to leave your car at home and shop locally, here are just a few:

• Support the local economy. For every £1 spent at a local independent business, research shows that between 50p-70p comes back into the local economy.

• Create jobs. Small local businesses provide vital employment opportunities locally and often pay more than national chains.

• Independent means interesting and individual.

Buying from a small business means you are buying stock that has been hand-selected by the owner and is often made locally.

• Online isn't always better... or cheaper! Shop around and always ask at your local store, you may be surprised by what they are able to offer. You can also see, feel, try on and test whatever it is that you are buying.

• Make a day of it. If you fancy a break from the shopping, stop off in some of the superb cafés, pubs and restaurants that our towns have to offer.

• Support friends and family. The chances are you will know, or even be related to business owners in your town. By shopping locally, you are supporting them and their

suppliers. Local retailers are more inclined to source local produce and use local suppliers so the businesses you buy from my

Recap:

• Keep more money going around the local economy.

• Get the best possible customer

service. • Benefit from

• Enjoy the help and advice of business owners.

• Find unique items not available in larger stores.

• Help your community thrive for years to come.

Year 6 trip to London

Update from Wenhaston Primary School

This will be our last update this academic year. Thank you as ever for your support of our school and I hope you enjoy reading. If you ever want to have a look around the school, you are always welcome!

Performing Arts Show:

Our 'Performing Arts Club' simply amazed everyone with an outstanding evening of music, dance, comedy and musical theatre on July 15th. Everyone absolutely loved the show and we were so proud of all that the children achieved. A massive thank you to Miss. Chambers who organised and choreographed most of the evening. It was simply stunning. I would strongly recommend looking into a ticket for next year's show. Honestly, I cannot describe just how brilliant this was.

Sports Day Success!

Sports Day proved to be a resounding success, with our whole school community joining forces to make it a memorable event. Our children, displaying commendable determination

and sportsmanship, worked hard and competed with the right spirit. It was heartwarming to witness older students encouraging their younger peers, fostering a sense of belonging within our school. We must also extend our gratitude to the PTA for providing refreshments and to Mr. Sanders for his exceptional work in organising the event. Lastly, a round of applause to the parents who participated in the races! What fun!

Year 6 trip to London:

Our Year 6 students embarked on an exciting journey to London near the end of term, exploring the sights and indulging in good fun. They thoroughly enjoyed the experience, although it is worth mentioning that by the end of the day, they were quite tired! We appreciate the efforts of the staff who made this trip possible and ensured the safety and enjoyment of our students throughout. It's also important to mention Pepyn and Lessey who made a contribution to the trip which brought the overall cost

down considerably!

Battery Recycling Initiative:

We are delighted to announce that our school has become a battery recycling point. If you have old batteries, you can recycle these with us at the office.

ASSET awards and

Pepyn and Lessey:

I am delighted to inform you that Wenhaston charity Pepyn and Lessey were proudly recognized for their outstanding community work at an Academy Trust awards ceremony a few weeks ago. If you reside in Wenhaston, please remember that they are available to provide support and assistance towards the education of Wenhaston children.

DT project in Oak Class:

Our DT work has continued to develop this term following the success of our spring term soup kitchen. During this time, generous donations were made by our guests which have enabled us to make some much needed updates to our tool supplies for the woodwork side of our DT curriculum. We purchased new

saws, bench hooks, sandpaper and of course the timber. Special thanks to Huws Gray in Halesworth for a helpful discount on this.

This term, Seedlings Class have been making 'toy town' style wooden building blocks for small world play and Oak class have designed and made their very own wooden photo frames. The children have learnt valuable skills including measuring and ,marking out, cutting and shaping, assembling and of course finishing and decorating. They have leant the importance of things such as accuracy when attempting things such as mitre cuts and of course safety when handling tools.

We were lucky enough to have a visit from local photographer Molly of 'MollyRuby Photography' come to do a photoshoot of the children with their friends, so that they have a lovely picture to put in the frame too. This has proven to be another great hands on piece of practical learning for all involved.

Performing Arts Show on July 15th

Martlesham Heath Aviation Society monthly meeting

On September 1st at 7:30pm, we welcome Chris Turland who will present an illustrated talk about the Flying Flea and other strange (and sometimes downright dangerous) aircraft that have taken to the air over the decades.

Some were probably designed and built in garages and small workshops, and should have stayed there!

RSPCA Open Day and Fun Dog Show

A few probably made it to the Armament and Aircraft Experimental Establishment (A&AEE) at RAF Martlesham Heath before being roundly rejected.

All our Martlesham Heath Aviation Society meetings take place at Martlesham Heath Community Centre, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Heath, Suffolk, IP12 4PB. Entry is £3 for members

and £5 for non-members, who are always welcome. You can join the Society on the night, if you wish.

It takes place from 7:30pm to 10pm. Just arrive early and park behind the largest hall, which is adjacent to the Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Heath.

For more information, call Howard King on 01473 274300 or email: howard.king1@outlook.com.

Common Ground Theatre's autumn tour… Perfect for those spooky October evenings!

This year, Suffolk-based Common Ground Theatre (run by Pat Whymark and Julian Harries) offers a Gothic murder mystery set in "Belle Epoque" Paris, with live music in the cabaret style of the period.

A series of strange happenings have the authorities baffled. Several men have disappeared under mysterious circumstances, with no connection between them other than that they were last seen in the vicinity of the notorious Pigalle district. With no leads,

Ensors Accountants

the police ask retired detective, Jean Tellier to take one last case. Sensing danger around every street corner, in every dimly lit café, in every dark doorway, Tellier begins by interviewing the proprietors and staff of the local bars and nightclubs, including the notorious Hellgate Club. The tour kicks off at The Headgate Theatre, Colchester on September 29th, and tours all over Essex and Suffolk until October 29th. For tour details and bookings, go to: www.commongroundtc.co.uk

Financial focus on...

Living the freelance dream

If you work as a contractor and have your own company, or you are considering taking the plunge, it is vital to understand the off-payroll working (or "IR35") rules and how they impact your tax position.

The tax treatment of freelance contractors continues to be a hot topic and there have been several high-profile cases in recent years, some involving celebrities.

What is off-payroll working?

Many freelancers choose to operate through their own limited company (a so-called personal service company or "PSC") instead of working directly for clients. There are possible Income Tax, NIC and cash flow advantages to operating in this way, rather than working for the client as an employee. The client also stands to gain by not incurring employer NICs.

When the government introduced the IR35 rules over 20 years ago, it was amid concerns that PSCs were (in many cases) being used to disguise the fact that individuals were effectively working as employees of their clients while enjoying the tax advantages available to genuine self-employed contractors.

Am I caught by IR35 and what are the consequences?

In essence, the off-payroll working/IR35 rules are simple. You need to ask one question: "If I was engaged directly by

Stunning final social at Sibton Church

The RSPCA Open Day and Fun Dog Show will be happening on Sunday September 3rd from 11:30am-3:30pm at the RSPCA Animal Centre, 2 Mill Lane, Martlesham, IP12 4PD. Entrance fee is £1 for adults and 50p for children under 12. No admittance to unaccompanied children under 14. There is parking available at the Community Centre and disabled parking only at the Animal Centre.

In addition to our friendly fun dog show, we will be having an RSPCA tombola, raffle and games, RSPCA branded goods, pet accessories and bric-abrac stalls. Craft stalls include animal-themed novelties, soaps, chutneys and jams, pyrography and watercolour art.

Ben & Arlo's Pet Bakery will be offering handmade natural dog and cat treats. Hedgehog rescue and Animals Asia will also be there. We'll be offering refreshments and a BBQ.

Dog Show timetable:

• 1pm: 'Crossbreed with Character'.

• 1:15pm: 'Happiest Hound'.

• 1:30pm: 'Young at Heart' (dogs aged 8+ years).

• 1:45pm: 'Second Chance' (any rescue dog).

• 2pm: 'Fabulous Female'.

• 2:15pm: 'Marvellous Male'.

• 2:30pm: 'Kids & K9s' (young handlers up to 14 years old).

• 2:45pm: 'Best in Show'.

All times are approximate and subject to change.

Registration is from 12 noon.

The Deben Players present 'Crushing Grapes'

Come and join us at La Petite Chapelle, a vineyard in Southwest France. The sun is shining, the grapes are ripening, and we're all set for an amusing week chez Jim and Maggie Hudson, the vineyard owners, who rent out their home every year to holidaymakers, or squatters as Jim fondly refers to them.

Judging is from 1pm.

Prices are ₤2.50 per class or three classes for ₤6 (per dog).

First, second and third place prizes and 'Best in Show' prize are sponsored by Skinner's Pet Food at Stradbroke.

All proceeds will go to the RSPCA Suffolk Central Branch to help animals in need in the local area. For more information, please email Mary Taylor on: mary.taylor@rspcasuffolkcentral.org.uk.

The last of the season's social events will be on October 14th. Enjoy your vintage favourites at a 50's and 60's gig with 'Del & Jeremy & Stephen', a popular tribute band. They perform between 7pm-10pm at St. Peter's Church, Sibton (IP17 2NB). It will be the final fling of the season. Tickets will be on sale before the event from The Weavers Tea Room and Peasenhall General Store priced at £10, also online through Eventbrite. (www. eventbrite.co.uk). There will be a licensed bar selling beers, soft drinks and wine. Food will be by Cheryl's Suffolk Catering. The evening is organized by the Friends of St. Peter's Church, Sibton.

Summer sailing at Deben Yacht Club

was not such a great idea. Next to arrive are Ellie and Rob, a couple of honeymooners, who are staying in the annexe next door to the house. Opposites attract but are they really a perfect match?

my client and my company did not exist, would I be treated as an employee?" If the answer is 'yes', then you fall within the IR35 rules, which will broadly ensure that you end up paying the same amount of tax and NICs as you would as an employee.

Unfortunately, establishing whether you'd be treated as an employee or self-employed can be very difficult. A host of factors need to be considered, making this a notoriously grey area where it pays to seek expert advice. HMRC also provide an online Check Employment Status for Tax tool, often referred to as 'CEST'.

At worst, you could be caught by IR35, so you face the same tax liability as an employee, but with none of the legal rights of an employee, including entitlements to holiday and sick pay.

What has changed recently?

The latest rule-change in 2021 put the onus on medium and large private sector businesses to determine the IR35 status of contractors they engage with. Many larger businesses err on the side of caution to ensure they are compliant, which can produce unfair outcomes for genuine contractors.

Under the short-lived Liz Truss government, plans were afoot to reverse the 2021 rule changes (and earlier changes aimed at the public sector) but for now it

appears they are here to stay.

What are the takeaways?

Always examine your IR35 status critically and take professional advice where needed to ensure that your income is taxed correctly. It is also essential to review the position as your circumstances change. If you need any guidance on this topic, please do get in touch with us.

Dan Waring and Martyn Wildney (pictured below), Ensors Accountants LLP

Please note: This information is given by way of general guidance only, and no action should be taken based solely on the information contained herein. No liability is accepted by Ensors Accountants LLP for any actions taken without seeking appropriate professional advice.

Tess, Martin and Sally are the first to arrive. The holiday was booked to celebrate Sally's silver wedding anniversary but a couple of weeks ago her husband, Barry, text her to say the marriage was over. Sally has decided the holiday must go ahead anyway. Tess and Martin are beginning to realise that this

Throw in Claude the French handyman, a visit from Maggie's unpleasant relatives, a couple of wine tasters who could change Maggie and Jim's fortunes and Barry the wayward husband turning up unannounced, and the scene is set for an entertaining week.

Nibbles are included in the ticket price and there is a bar available.

www.debenplayers.net/tickets À bientôt!

Upcoming talks at Woodbridge Museum

The Friends of Woodbridge museum resume their monthly Friday talks in the Woodbridge Community Hall in September. All talks begin at 2:30pm.

'Ipswich Public Transport History' by Dave Carson

September 8th: A digital presentation of Ipswich's public transport history from the town's horse trams (1880-1903), electric trams (1903-1926), trolleybuses (1923-1963) and their replacement by diesel buses (1950-1964).

'Antarctic Sketchbook' by Claudia Myatt

November 10th: In December 2021, Claudia spent five weeks travelling to South Georgia and Antarctica as an Artist in Residence for Friends of Scott Polar Research Institute. In this talk, she'll share her sketchbooks and adventures as a guest of the Royal Navy on board icebreaker HMS Protector.

'The Worlingworth Feast Painting' by Geoffrey Robinson

The summer months are a great time to introduce people to sailing. 'Discover Sailing Day' in July went very smoothly thanks to organisation by Thomas Yeung and a team of volunteers. There were lots of smiling faces from the more than 60 participants who took the opportunity to get out on the water. We are fortunate to have a great team of RYA accredited sailing instructors led by Steve Scholey. In August, they ran a successful dinghy sailing course which included both adults and youngsters.

On the final day of the course, Steve reported: "We were out in a whole range of weather but the trainees came back smiling". Steve himself demonstrated capsize practice in a downpour and got properly soaked. It has been the same story throughout the last month with the weather being against our sailors, however the sun has come out again in mid-

August, so there at hopes for good weather for our Regatta. At Deben Yacht Club, we enjoy being part of the water sports community in Woodbridge and this year has seen joint events with the 5th Woodbridge Sea Scouts and the Deben Cherub fleet. In August, the Woodbridge Coastal Rowing Club held a social evening at the Club. On a lovely sunny evening, their members were able to take turns rowing one of their skiffs and then enjoy a 'bring a dish' meal on the veranda. Up and coming sailing events in September include a down river flotilla and the popular Sullivan Cup which sees dinghies sail as far as the mouth of the river. The annual Macmillan Coffee Morning is on September 29th from 10am to 12pm. This is open to everyone. You do not have to be a member. Come for coffee, tea and delicious homemade cakes in return for a donation to Macmillan Cancer Support.

Dan Waring

'From malt to music' by David Edwards

October 13th: An illustrated history of Newson Garrett's Snape Maltings, and how it came to become one of the world's leading cultural centres through the vision of Suffolk composer Benjamin Britten and his partner, tenor Peter Pears.

Martyn Wildney

December 8th: In 1810, King George III was celebrating his Golden Jubilee. In Worlingworth, the parishioners, encouraged by Lord Henniker, the principal landowner, held a magnificent feast to commemorate the Golden Jubilee. Henniker commissioned an artist or artists to record the event on canvas. That painting hangs in the nave of the church

today and this talk explains the history and the relevance of the event to the nationwide celebrations.

News from the museum:

Whilst carrying out an inventory of the artefacts held by Woodbridge Museum, we have come across the pictured notice dated 1872 which we thought might be of interest.

The surveyors referred to in the notice are names we regularly come across as they were all involved in Woodbridge life. The notice was printed by J. Loder, again another well-known Woodbridge gentleman. Those were the days! Imagine what would happen if the highways authority issued such instructions now!

Oaklands House Care Home

Later life can be enjoyed in style at our hotel-style care home, where a happy and homely atmosphere prevails. Our warm and experienced care team always put residents’ wellbeing at the heart of everything they do.

Call

Halesworth care home opens new sensory garden for its residents

Castlemeadow Care's Highfield House care home have opened their own sensory area for residents to enjoy.

The home on London Road in Halesworth provides residential care including support for people living with dementia. Through input and discussions with the residents, Highfield House have dedicated an area of the garden and turned this into a sensory garden. A sensory

Edgar Sewter Playschool and Out of School Club

Our summer holiday club runs until August 25th and we have welcomed children from four to 12 years from many local schools as well as Edgar Sewter to make new friends exploring craft, dens, games, face painting, water play, outdoor potions and traditional mud pies and ever popular fascinating African land snails! We are now taking bookings for October half term.

Breakfast and after school clubs resume on September 6th, from 8am-9am and 3:30pm-6pm.

Our playschool will be open Monday-Friday during term time for children from two to three years old offering

funded and non-funded places with affordable fees and we welcome registrations as soon as possible for September and beyond.

We're a registered charity and run independently within the main Edgar Sewter Primary School. We are Ofsted registered, have been established over 20 years with a small team of caring, qualified staff and follow the Early Years Foundation Stage and Playwork Principles. Please email: esplayschool@gmail.com or ring: 07796 044277 to book a place/register for playschool, breakfast, after school or holiday club.

garden is a green space which has been designed to appeal to as many of the senses as possible.

At Highfield House, sensory planting has been designed for people living with dementia, as colour, touch and scent can calm and ground, and inspire the recollection of distant memories and sensations. The sensory garden is a place where the residents can build their concentration, motivation, and

confidence through gardening and social interaction with the addition of level walkways, handrails and seating meaning its fully accessible for all users. It was officially opened by resident Ralph Wright with fellow residents, family, and staff in attendance. A special thanks to all who were involved with making the sensory area possible and all to all who worked hard to make the day special.

News from Halesworth Volunteers

We are having a very busy summer at Halesworth Volunteers. The Community Larder has had lots of visitors, hospitals are trying to catch up on their waiting lists and so the Car Service is at full capacity and our events are busier than ever. Our monthly quiz at the White Hart raised the most funds it has ever done and our Well-being Lunch had 22 attendees. So it's all systems go at Halesworth Volunteers!

Community Car Service:

If you're struggling to get out and about, our Car Service can help. Our team of volunteer drivers will not only get you from A to B but give you a helping hand with your shopping if you need it. We're very busy, so do bear with us but our volunteers always do their best to get you where you need to be.

We'd like to thank everybody who has donated to the Larder over the summer, it really makes a difference. Remember, the Larder is open to everyone, so do pop in and see us. The Larder is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10am to 11:30am at St. Mary's Church Hall.

Community Lunches: Our partnership with St. Mary's Church goes from strength to strength, not only do we run the Larder in partnership but we also organize monthly Community Lunches in the Church. So if you fancy some sandwiches, cake, quiche, a cuppa and a natter, do please come along. Everyone is welcome. The Lunches take place on the last Wednesday of the month from 12:30pm.

of daily life. You buy your own lunch but there are games and a little chat.

Latitude 2023: Huge thanks to the volunteers who staffed the Halesworth Volunteers AIR Hub at Latitude this year. A great time was had by all, even the people who camped overnight in the pouring rain.

Monthly Quiz: Nigel hosts his very popular quiz at the White Hart on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Come for a fun-filled evening with snacks provided by Vicky and her team at the White Hart. The Quiz starts at 8pm and everyone is welcome.

And finally...

August mowing and raking on the Green

Haymaking on the Green

ML & RJ THICKITT TRADING AS

ML & RJ THICKITT TRADING AS

KCLARKE BUTCHERS

Tel: 01986 784244

KCLARKE BUTCHERS

Fax: 01986 784646

email: kwclarkesorder@gmail.com

The Halesworth Community Larder: We've had some wonderful gifts of fresh fruit and vegetables, meats and household staples and some very generous cash donations too.

Wellbeing Lunches: We are working in partnership with the Wellbeing Service to host a lovely lunch at Chinny's on the first Tuesday of the month. The lunches are for anyone who would like to get out and about but who would benefit from a calm, supportive environment away from the hustle and bustle

If you need a little bit of help and support, or you have a friend or neighbour who you think would benefit from a bit of friendship or the chance to get out and about, please give us a call and we can tell all the ways that we can help. From walking your dog to taking you on a trip to the Garden Centre, we are here to help. Please don't hesitate to call: 01986 875600.

Haymaking is underway on the Holton Road side of White Bridge. If we don't cut these meadows, the coarser grasses and commoner plants dominate and the rarer wildflowers and creatures who live among their roots will die out. On the Holton Road side of White Bridge, in the meadows called Folly Meadow, Poplar Meadow and Orchard Meadow, we can hope to see adder's tongue fern, common spotted orchids, ragged robin, alder buckthorn, slow worms and grass snakes, toads, lizards, Norfolk Hawker dragonflies, bats etc... but these can't flourish if we allow the ranker growth and scrub to get established. So if you love to see these plants and animals on your walks through the Green, and if you can spare an hour or two on a Wednesday morning, meet the volunteers at 9:30am at the gate

at Arthur's Wood, just off Quay Street down the little track from the railway bridge. Meanwhile, remember that the Community Orchard is for scrumping. Apples and plums are getting ripe - the birds get nearly all the cherries - and you're welcome to take them. Do keep letting us know of any exciting sightings. Have a look on (millenniumgreen. halesworth.net) for news and information, photos, wildlife records, history and geology. You can contact the Green directly on: thegreen@halesworth.net

LOW ROAD, BRAMFIELD

Email: sharmangary4@gmail.com

LOW ROAD, BRAMFIELD

'Our FamOus barbecue packs' £39.99

LARGE BBQ PACKS: £44.99

'Our FamOus barbecue packs' £39.99

4lb flavoured chicken

4lb Flavoured Ribs

4lb flavoured ribs

4lb Flavoured Ribs

4lb Flavoured Chicken

4lb sausages

4lb Flavoured Chicken

Emmie Jarvis Dog Walking Services

Norfolk and Suffolk

Dog walking & pet sitting services

Wedding Dress Exhibition

x10 beefburgers

4lb Sausages 10 Beef Burgers

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x5 pork & apple burgers

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Small Barbecue Packs £9.99

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4 items, 16 piece x4 pieces of flavoured chicken

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Call or text: 07809 167894

Over 40 wedding dresses through the decades will be on display at a wedding dress exhibition being held in St. Mary's Church on September 9th, from 10:30am to 4pm and Sunday 10th from 10:30am to 3pm.

All barbecue meat available loose including...

x4 pieces of flavoured ribs

All barbecue meat available loose including...

Fresh Flavoured Ribs, Chicken & Burgers

x4 sausages x4 beef burgers

Fresh Flavoured Ribs, Chicken & Burgers

Also Salads, Pickles and Sauces

Also Salads, Pickles and Sauces

6oz STEAK BURGERS: £1.60 each

Traditionally reared local beef lamb pork and poultry

Refreshments will be available all day and light lunches available from between 12pm and 2pm. There will also be a 'guess the weight of the cake' game, raffle and a wedding-themed quiz.

On Sunday 10th, there will be a Service in the Church.

Traditionally reared local beef lamb pork and poultry home cooked hams and home cured gammons

Traditionally-reared local beef, lamb, pork and poultry, home-cooked hams and home-cured gammons

OPENING HOURS

Monday to Friday 8am-5pm. Saturday 8am-1pm

Mon-Fri 7am-5pm & Sat 7am-1pm

Admission to the exhibition is free, but donations are welcome, in aid of St. Mary's Church funds. Wedding flowers from a previous wedding (supplied by Victoria Uff, Worlingworth) will also be on display.

Castlemeadow Care

Resident Ralph Wright cut the ribbon with help from Sammy the dog alongside residents and staff.

Halesworth Millennium Green