As twilight descended over Ipswich, Suffolk Singers stepped forward to perform their latest concert, Night Into Day, in the impressive and atmospheric chapel of St. Joseph's College. The chapel provided a splendid setting for the concert, the first time that Suffolk Singers had performed at this venue.
Led superbly as always by Suffolk Singers' Musical Director, Claire Weston, the choir was in good voice in front of an appreciative audience.
Suffolk Singers were delighted to welcome once again The West Tones, a group of talented young singers from Woodbridge School where Claire is Head of Singing, who also performed several pieces. Both choirs were ably accompanied on the piano by Christine Whiffen.
The varied programme took the audience on a journey from night into day and then back into night again. The concert opened with pieces celebrating the coming of the new day, including 'O Radiant Dawn' by James MacMillan (a favourite of
Suffolk Singers'), first performed by the choir at the Menin Gate in Ypres, Belgium in 2017. The theme continued with several pieces contemplating the onset of day which included another Suffolk Singers favourite, Gerald Finzi's 'My Spirit Sang All Day' and the uplifting gospel song, 'Unclouded Day', arranged by Shawn Kirchner.
The concert's second half unfolded with three pieces reflecting on day turning to evening including 'Second Eve', a piece written in eight parts by Norwegian composer, Ola Gjeilo with complex harmonies and frequent key changes. Finally, the concert theme returned to night from whence it came with the choir performing another Suffolk Singers favourite, 'Sure On This Shining Night', written by American composer Morten Lauridsen.
Our special guests for the evening, The West Tones, beautifully performed four pieces to the delight of the audience. The first was Eva Cassidy's version of 'Over The Rainbow', followed by an arrangement of 'Autumn
Leaves', and 'You Raise Me Up', most notably recorded by Irish group Westlife. Finally, The West Tones showed their versatility with a lovely rendition of George Frideric Handel's aria, 'Ombra Mai Fu' from the opera Serse.
For the final piece of the concert, Suffolk Singers were joined on stage by The West Tones to sing 'Dream A Little Dream of Me'. A lovely end to a wonderful concert, beautifully performed by Suffolk Singers and The West Tones and expertly directed by Claire Weston.
The choir performs at various venues throughout Suffolk and have commenced rehearsals as they look forward to the next concert - 'Love Walked In' on July 5th in St. Edmund King & Martyr, the Parish Church of Southwold located at Bartholmew Green, IP18 6JA. Tickets for this event will be £15 available on the door but for advance sales, call 07843 840876, ask choir members, or visit: www.wegottickets.com/ event/658150. This promises to be another fine evening of good music in the superb setting of this well appointed church.
Inner Wheel Club of Woodbridge news
We were delighted to welcome District Chairman, Heather Hewson. Members were treated to a potted history of her life and her journey with and passion for Inner Wheel. President, Judy Hardcastle, then presented Heather with a gift from Woodbridge.
Football Club.
Recently, members have had afternoon tea at The Longshed, enjoyed a Knit & Natter session at Notcutts and were very busy at the Memory Café, where much fun was had by all.
The Memory Café is for anyone with memory loss and their carers, and it takes place on the last Wednesday of each month from 10:30am at Woodbridge
Members are looking forward to a coffee morning on May 7th, taking part in the VE Day Peace Celebrations in Elmhurst Park on May 10th, Knit & Natter at Notcutts on May 28th at 2:30pm, and also have opportunities to attend the District Committee Meeting, Club Officers' Assembly and the District Outing, which is to be held at Oxburgh Hall.
Woodbridge IW members meet at Ufford Park Hotel at 6:30pm on the first Thursday of each month. Find out more about the club and its aims and objectives at District 8 innerwheel.co.uk
Rendham Mummers
It's that time of year again when the Rendham Mummers come out of hibernation to put on another play.
The year is 1830 and the farm workers of Rendham have had enough of scrimping out a living. Sir. Archibald Badcock has just purchased a new threshing machine which will take even more jobs away. In desperation, the people rebel under the guise of Captain Swing. How will they
News from Framlingham & Saxmundham Cats Protection
The first week in June is designated as 'Volunteers' Week'. It's a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation to everyone who generously gives their time to support their communities, charities and other great causes. At Framlingham & Saxmundham Cats Protection, we want to thank all the amazing volunteers who help us care for our cats and support our branch. Their contributions mean a great deal to us, and we appreciate them not just during this week, but every single week of the year. We couldn't do what we do without
their incredible support! Our volunteers come from all walks of life and do so many different things (fostering cats, fundraising, transporting supplies, knitting adorable catnip mice and cosy blankets, making cat duvets, collecting food, handling inquiries, and so much more). We salute each and every one of them! If you're interested in joining our friendly and lively team, we'd love to hear from you! Send us an email at the address below or give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you!
Date for your diary:
• June 29th: Woodbridge Regatta,
Ferry Quay: Come and see us on our stand to support us and find out more about what we do.
Cat looking for a home: This pretty girl pictured is Dove. She's approximately sixyears-old and is a very sweetnatured, friendly girl who'd like to be an only pet. Dove is very affectionate and loves a lot of fuss in return. She's not had access to the great outdoors for a while, so is looking for a quiet home, away from busy roads and with a secure garden for her to start exploring again. See Dove and all the cats looking for new homes on our website: cats.org.
fare as they take on Sir and Lady Badcock. Druid spirits, drunken songs and feisty rebellion promise a lively night for all sensible enough to come along and celebrate the summer solstice with the famous Rendham Mummers. The performance of The Rendham Swingers will commence at 7:30pm at Sweffling White Horse on June 21st. Come early to ensure a seat, drinks available in the pub.
uk/framandsax#adopt-all
Website: cats.org.uk/ framandsax, email: enquiries@ framandsax.cats.org.uk, or phone: 01728 723499 for more information about adopting cats in our care, how to become a member of the branch, event dates, neutering, cat-care leaflets, how to become a volunteer fundraiser or fosterer, make a donation and other ways you can support us. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram.
Image credit: Hannah Parnell
Refurbished showroom at Dobbies Garden Centre, Woodbridge
We're
reflective of this.
The new showroom showcases new french doors, flush windows at the front and casement windows at the sides and rear, all in Agate Grey (RAL 7038). In addition, we've included the latest style of UPVC door in French Grey as well as a composite door (two panel, two square) in Anthracite Grey.
The new roof incorporates a solid Ultraframe 380 on one half, and a Livin Room roof on the other half which features a pelmet and glass roof in Sunshade Blue. This has made a really nice feature
as it provides lots of natural light but has energy efficient glass ensuring the showroom stays cool in summer and warm in winter.
The Ultraframe 380 is an all year round conservatory roof and is a firm favourite with our customers. We adapted this for showroom purposes to demonstrate the versatility of the product and showcase both options.
Mark Woods (pictured) has been Sales Manager at our Woodbridge showroom for the last nine years. Over this time, he's taken a great pride in servicing customers across Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Ipswich and the surrounding area. He guides people through the process, from listening to what each customer's looking for to matching these with the right products to meet their requirements. He provides a range of options with a clear breakdown in costs enabling customers to choose exactly what they feel is right for them.
Mark is delighted to welcome new and existing customers to the impressive new showroom. Within the first few days of opening, Mark has already had one new customer purchase a Livin Room roof as part
of a complete conservatory refurbishment project with him, a direct result of seeing the new showroom first-hand! We consider this to be the success we'd hoped for, as it's a clear indicator that the quality of the products speak for themselves. Feel free to give Mark a call to book an appointment or just pop in when you're in the Woodbridge area! We look forward to working with all our existing customers as well as new!
History of Albert's Dairy
What's on at Saxmundham Library?
Regular Sessions & Services:
now called Meadow View) and this barn and six acres of land. He had three cows and milked them in this small dairy. This smallholding was purchased by Thomas Feavearyear who farmed at Town Farm in the late 1950's with Albert as a sitting tenant. He stayed there until he passed away in the mid 70s.
Meadow View was then renovated for Robin Feavearyear (son of Thomas) and Trudie, his wife. The barn had a variety of uses over the years, 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
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.
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.
• 5-a-side Chess: June 3rd, 10th & 17th, July 1st, 8th & 15th & August 5th, 12th & 19th, from 10:30am-12pm. A shorter, smaller and quicker version of the traditional game of chess. Getting people off their phones and communicating with others in the real world. Having meaningful encounters, broadening our understanding of each other, maintaining and improving mental health and wellbeing and in the process, helping others and helping to reconnect our society. The idea couldn't be simpler and yet couldn't be more important. Free, just turn up, play and chat!
• Alzheimer's Drop In: 4th Tuesday of each month from 10:30am-12:30am. How's your memory? Would you like to know more about improving your brain health? June 24th & July 22nd. Provided by Alzheimer's Society.
• Baby Bounce/Tot Rock: Tuesdays & Fridays from 9:30am-10am. Free sessions for parents/carers and babies/ toddlers with gentle songs and rhymes. Please note that there are no sessions during school holidays.
wanted to try writing? Come and join our self-run, friendly creative writing group and start a biography, poetry, fiction or anything you'd like. Take turns leading the group with writing tasks and ideas on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday afternoon of each month, from 1pm-3pm. All abilities and genres welcome. £1pp, incl. tea and biscuits. June 11th & 25th & July 9th & 23rd.
• Dementia & Long Term Health Condition Support Group: For those living with conditions, carers, family and professionals. All welcome for chat, tea and biscuits. 3rd Friday of each month from 11am12:30pm, June 20th & July 18th.
• East Suffolk Council Drop In & Digital Assistance: Every Wednesday from 10am-4pm. (Council Tax, housing, benefits, environment, leisure, planning, waste, etc). www.eastsuffolk. gov.uk
• Family History: Drop in sessions on the 2nd Tuesday each month from 2:30pm4:30pm. June 10th & July 8th. Our experienced volunteer can help you trace your family, learn how to search and take DNA tests.
5th & 19th. Suitable for ages 3-103.
• Mah Jong: Would you like to learn? Can you play already? Sessions run on 1st & 3rd Friday each month 2pm-4pm. If you're interested, please come along and learn the game with our experienced volunteers. June 6th & 20th & July 4th & 18th. Please note the group is currently full but if you're interested, please ask a member of staff to pop you on the waiting list.
• NHS Hearing Aid Clinic: For repairs, tubing and batteries. All hearing aid repairs/consumables will require an appointment by phoning 01473 286060. Batteries will be dispensed without appointment. 3rd Wednesday of alternate months, 1pm-3pm, July 16th. No sessions in April or June.
• Suffolk Constabulary Community Policing Team Drop In & Crime Prevention Information: Speak to the community policing team. Sessions run on the 4th Tuesday of each month 10:30am-12pm, June 24th & July 22nd.
SMILE Community Café
Free on Wednesdays?
The SMILE Community Café is a pop-up café, operating every Wednesday (9am3pm), in the main hall of the Saxmundham Fromus Centre, IP17 1AL.
Now in its 13th year, its popularity has been growing steadily. Most customers are now weekly regulars who come in to meet each other and socialise in a relaxed, unhurried and friendly modern environment.
The café is currently managed by a volunteer chief cook and six volunteers but (due to the café's success) we could really do with a volunteer assistant cook to help the chief cook with cooking simple snacks/light meals and supervising the café operations.
Training will be provided (if required) and recognition with a nationally recognised Health & Hygiene qualification - very useful, with an appropriate
reference, for any additional paid employment in any catering set-up.
To know more, please drop into the café, any Wednesday, and ask for Graham (chief cook). He'll show you round and answer any further questions you may have. Come and support your local community, and make new friends, every Wednesday! For more background information and news, please visit: smile-café.org.uk
Alberts Dairy
• Books, Banter & Biscuits Book Group: Discover the joy of reading with other likeminded, enthusiastic readers and book addicts. Lively discussions for the mind, meeting monthly on the first Wednesday of each month, from 2pm-4pm (June 4th & July 2nd). Currently reading 'Three Hours' by Rosamund Lupton.
• Citizens Advice: Every Wednesday 10am-12pm (available for support and advice). Free advice on housing, benefits, money, debt, immigration, relationships and employment. www. citizensadviceeastsuffolk.org. uk, 0808 278 7866, advice@ caes.org.uk.
• Creative Writing Group: Ever
• Friday Readers Book Group: Last Friday each month from 1:30pm. June 27th & July 25th. Read the chosen book, discuss and handout next book. Currently reading 'A Gentleman in Moscow' by Amor Towles.
• Home Library Service: Runs on the 1st Tuesday of each month. A service for those unable to leave their own home. Let us know if you, or someone you know who'd like this service (long/short term).
• Knit & Natter: A friendly, welcoming group. Suitable for all abilities, bring your art or craft projects. 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month, 2:30pm4:30pm. June 3rd & 17th & July 1st & 15th.
• Lego Group Sessions: 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month 11am12:30pm. June 7th & 21st, July
• TopTime: Every Thursday 10am-12pm. Something different every week for adults, lots of chatter, tea and biscuits. £1pp. Talks, crafts, games, quiz, bingo, play reading, singa-longs, health and activity sessions, etc. June 12th & July 3rd: Author, July 10th: Pearlies Variety Show, July 24th: SingA-Long, September 11th: Visit to Saxmundham Museum & September 18th: Author.
• Warm Space: Free hot and cold drinks and biscuits available, during opening hours. All donations of items (cup-a-soup, biscuits, instant hot chocolate, squash), or cash are very much appreciated to keep it running. Duplo, Stickle Bricks, wooden train and blocks, colouring sheets, board games and jigsaws available to use in the library. Jigsaws can also be taken home to do and we're happy to receive board game and jigsaw donations.
New solar energy project at Framlingham Technology Centre
Framlingham Technology Centre has taken a bold step forward in its mission to lead in Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) practices with the installation of a stateof-the-art solar panel system.
This project underlines the centre's commitment to reducing its environmental footprint while promoting a modern, sustainable workspace for its tenants.
The newly installed FTC PV Scheme comprises 125 highefficiency 420W solar panels, combined with a three-phase inverter and six Zappi 7kW EV chargers, enabling clean energy generation and supporting electric vehicle use. The system's projected to save an estimated 27,250kWh of energy annually, reducing carbon emissions by 7.5 tonnes of CO2e per year, a significant step in the centre's sustainability journey.
The initiative was made possible thanks to a £14,367.68 grant from East Suffolk Council, awarded as part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund which aims to kickstart the local economy. This investment supports the centre's broader revitalisation efforts, following extensive flood damage caused by Storm Babet in October 2023. Following a £720,000
refurbishment, the ground floor of the centre officially reopened last month.
Tony Stockman (Chairman of Framlingham Technology Centre) said: "As a leader in ESG practices, we're committed to making tangible, positive changes for both our community and the environment. Our new solar energy system is a cornerstone of this vision, allowing us to harness renewable power, reduce our carbon emissions, and set a benchmark for sustainable business operations. This initiative not only reflects our environmental values but also ensures we provide a forwardthinking workspace for our tenants. We're proud to take this step toward a greener future and look forward to sharing the realworld impact of this project as we gather data over the coming year."
Cllr Tim Wilson (East Suffolk Council's cabinet member for Economic Development & Transport) said: "We are committed to supporting, promoting and implementing green technology where possible and we are therefore delighted to support this initiative, which will enable the centre to benefit from clean energy and further its aims to become more sustainable."
LOCAL SERVICES DIRECTORY
(
start to the
The cricket season has started; two games in and it already feels like this is exactly what summer Saturdays were made for, grass stained cricket whites, fresh cut grass, clear blue skies and the sound of leather on willow.
Game one saw Saxmundham Sports CC travel to Ipswich and ES II. Batting first, Ipswich scored 186/5 with Gary Butler taking three wickets. The Saxmundham reply was steady with Gary Butler scoring 57 but unfortunately fell 31 runs short.
Game two saw another away game down the A14 at Felixstowe. Winning the toss, Saxmundham elected to bat on a perfect batting track. Another good opening partnership of 85 between Ray and Gary saw Saxmundham start well. The innings continued at pace with good contributions from Ray (45), Errol (31) and Rev (28) plus an unbeaten century from Gary (110no) help set Felixstowe
season
a formidable target of 267. Felixstowe never looked like reaching the target with some really tight bowling and ended up all out only scoring 79. Revanth taking his maiden five wicket haul for Saxmundham.
In scoring his century, Gary also passed the landmark of 4,500 runs for Saxmundham and become the all-time leading run scorer for Saxmundham. The club would like to thank The Poachers Pocket for once again being their main sponsor for the season.
Fixtures for June 2025:
• Sat 7th: Nacton II (a)
• Sat 14th: Dedham (h)
• Sat 21st: Boxted II (a)
• Sat 28th: Woodbridge II (h) For more information about joining the club, please contact Gary 07891 691431 or Niraj 07960 219653 or visit: www.saxcricket.co.uk
Gary Butler
ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH A LOCAL SPORTS CLUB? Please send over any game results, awards and other team news to: edit@micropress.co.uk
and
Blues announce new stand sponsorship
Leiston Football Club are proud to announce an exciting new stand sponsorship, with local company My Mortgage Planner.
The stand behind the far end of the Victory Road ground now adorns the branding of My Mortgage Planner, which has a new office in Saxmundham High Street, as well as an office in Ipswich, offering residential, buyto-let, commercial, bridging and development, covering all angles with regards property finance.
Peter Crawley (Director at My
Mortgage Planner) said: "I look forward to My Mortgage Planner and Leiston Football Club having a long-standing relationship, and I very much look forward to the continued success of both our business and the football club. I moved to Saxmundham in 2022 and love the area. I see Leiston FC as being an integral part of the local community, with football a great way of bringing people together."
Andy Crisp (Leiston FC Chairman) added: "We thank Peter and My Mortgage Planner
for their support, and are thrilled their new livery on the stand looks so resplendent. We love working with forward-thinking community-spirited businesses like My Mortgage Planner, who see what we're trying to do here at Leiston FC. A successful local company working with a successful local football club is, for us, a perfect combination." leistonfc.co.uk
My Mortgage Planner can assist with all your mortgage and house buying needs. mymortgageplanner.co.uk
Skipper
Seb signs new deal at Victory Road
Leiston skipper Seb Dunbar has signed a new contract at Leiston Football Club ahead of the 2025/26 season.
The Blues defender, 32, who is closing in on almost 450 appearances for the Victory Road side and was out of contract this summer, admits to being "really happy" at his new deal and can't wait to go again.
I'm happy to have signed a new deal. The club wanted me to stay, and I have a good relationship with everyone there, so it's naturally the right decision for us all."
Saxons invade land, coast and forest!
A great turn-out of members saw The Saxons running in a number of local fixtures and runs, contending with sand, tree roots and wind at the Ipswich Twilight 5k, the Heritage Coastal 10k and Half Marathon and the Rendlesham parkrun.
All saw some fantastic running and new personal bests from seasoned runners and first timers!
At Rendlesham Forest parkrun (May 3rd) the Saxons dominated, with more than 20 runners and others in supporting roles.
As part of the 'Saxons on
Westhall Charity FC
"I wanted to stay," he said. "I want to play at the highest level possible and, for me, around Suffolk Leiston is the best club.
Dunbar had a stuttering start to last season with injuries taking their toll. But by the second half of the campaign, he was back to his best with a string of impressive performances. Blues fans will certainly be glad to know their skipper is staying.
"I feel really fit now and just want to keep enjoying playing my
football and pushing myself and the team," he added. Dunbar joins Eddie Jackson and Cameron Rayworth who have all signed new deals at Leiston in the past few weeks. Meanwhile, early bird season tickets are on sale now and there's been a good uptake in them so far. Early Bird offers are available until midnight on Friday, June 6th.
If you'd like to buy one, contact Keith Swain on 07914 762528 or email: keith_swain@hotmail.com
cake
and
We raised an incredible £835 and had great attendance on the
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. 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
Leiston Football Club
Leiston Football Club
Framlingham Gala Fest returns!
The historic Framlingham Gala Fest celebrations take place over the weekend of May 24th to 26th under the walls of the iconic Framlingham Castle.
This year's event is a colourful red, white and blue themed event to include the VE Day 80 year celebrations.
May 24th starts in the morning with a family friendly duathalon (run and cycle event) at the Sports Club on Badingham Road, Framlingham and then continues into a relaxed music event in the afternoon with children's games and family entertainment. Cost of entry to the music event is £8 in advance or £10 on the day.
The evening concludes with an excellent Queen Tribute Band 'Works of Queen'. On May 25th, Framlingham hosts a craft fair at the Community Rooms in the heart of the town.
English Heritage has generously granted free entry between 10am and 4pm to the castle for those with an IP13 9 postcode.
Framlingham Sports Club holds a free acoustic music event on the patio throughout the afternoon.
May 26th is the Grand Framlingham Gala with a parade starting at 12:30pm, led by the Young Gala Stars meandering through the town centre and finishing at the Castle Meadow
under the walls of the iconic Framlingham Castle. There then follows an afternoon of free family entertainment and colour in the show ring at the Castle Meadow with children's races and local acts performing.
The craft fair is still open to all throughout the day and Stocks Fair is in residence throughout the weekend on the Castle Meadow.
The afternoon closes at 5pm with the Grand Gala draw with some amazing prizes to win.
The whole event is produced by a group of hard working volunteers with two aims; the drive to keep the iconic event in the Framlingham calendar for
many years to come, and to make the whole weekend a community event with any profits going to the Framlingham Sports Club charity for maintenance and
improvements to the sporting facilities offered by the Sports Club. Full details are available on: framlinghamgalafest.co.uk
Saddle up at North Manor
25
years of hooves, heart, and home in the heart of Bramfield
For 25 years, Valli Hayes has been teaching the community and their children to horse ride and looking after their horses and ponies, which is quite an achievement when you realise how many riding centres have closed due to the expense of running, the insurances required, vets and feed bills, making life hard in this line of business.
learning to groom and tack up etc.
Everything was done to get the school up and running again.
Riding lessons are available for adults and children (12-stone weight restriction). They also run The British Horse Societies Pony Stars awards scheme aimed at helping children discover and develop their love for ponies.
This is available for £50 for a two-hour session and covers being taught the basics of horse care, with a classroom session, followed by practical sessions,
Back in 2023, Valli was hit by another blow, when (due to the excessive rain) the stables flooded. The water got to 18 inches deep at some points and the horses had to be rescued from flooded fields. The stables flooded, as well as the office, destroying a lot of important paperwork. A lot of equipment got ruined, walls had to be moved, and they had to run dehumidifiers to try to dry out the damp. Many people would consider calling it a day at this point, but not the team at North Manor; They donned their wellies and cleaned, repainted, fixed buildings, re-built a new pole barn and shavings shed as well as re-doing the car park...
North Manor Equestrian Centre is not only a riding centre, but they also offer Livery services for horse owners, with full, DIY and assisted options. However, they specialise in offering a livery service for first-time horse owners to help and assist. There's a backup service of Emily (Valli's head girl) also offering a freelance service to DIY liveries for holiday cover.
During the summer holidays, the school run in-house shows, 'Own A Pony' day and jumping sessions... Everything to keep
staying in a little lodge she has at the stables (pictured below), with kitchen and bathroom facilities on-site, a pub down the road and use of excellent stewardship riding tracks around the area. As well as being a short drive to Dunwich Forest and Sizewell Beach to name but a few of the fantastic places to ride.
Valli, Emily and the team look forward to welcoming the future equestriennes of the future! north-manor-equestrian.co.uk
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
• Earn your own money: Get paid for each paper delivered!
• Stay active: Enjoy fresh air and exercise while doing your route/s.
• Community: Doing a paper round gives you an active role in your local community.
• Develop responsibility: Learn punctuality and reliability as you deliver papers on time to the right places.
• CV: Having a paper round looks great on your CV for the future, showing potential employers that you’re a hard-working, reliable person!
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
Blooming lovely in the garden
June
With longer and brighter
you can use your garden or patio as a great extension to your home, whether it's in the countryside or in a smaller, but equally treasured, urban environment. June may not be the hottest month, but it has plenty of sunshine along with the summer solstice on June 21st when we say goodbye to spring and welcome summer.
Nothing shouts summer more than fragrant flowering roses. Roses are one of the oldest flowers in the world, and have been referenced in literature, music and art for centuries. They're much loved by gardeners as a hardy, long-lasting plant and come in all shapes, colours and varieties.
When planting roses in your garden, you should consider the look and feel of what you'd like to achieve, from creating excellent focal points to framing certain areas of your garden or outside space. They give a fantastic show throughout the summer months and are relatively easy to grow.
Roses need only an initial feed at the beginning of spring and then a regular feed after each flowering.
The occasional soaking during dry summer days will help to maintain plant health and vigour and if you lightly dead head throughout the growing season, they'll continue to flower into the autumn.
There are many types of roses and varieties including shrub roses, the classic hybrid tea and old English roses that offer an exquisite fragrance. They can grow in most settings; large and small gardens, contemporary or traditional spaces, flower beds or traditional borders and are perfect for planters and containers.
When choosing what to plant with roses, make sure you pick companion plants that are a good fit, so ones that thrive in the same sun exposure, soil type and have similar growing needs. Most roses
require full sun, well-drained soil and plenty of breathing space to maintain good air flow around them and prevent black spot and other fungal diseases. Avoid companion plants that are prone to taking over the garden and that will eventually crowd out your roses and deprive them of light and air.
Many companion plants can help ward off pests and improve the soil. Nepeta (also known as catmint) has aromatic foliage that fends off aphids and many other garden pests whilst attracting bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects. Alliums also keep aphids at bay and attract beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps and hoverflies. For ground cover, you could plant some hardy geraniums (Cranesbill), they're low growers and form a living mulch, protecting rose roots. Rose petals can be used as a herbal tea. Pink Rosa x Damascena (pictured above) or Rosa rugosa are commonly used for making rose tea - other varieties may be more bitter in taste. Rose tea has natural antiinflammatory properties and can also potentially enhance sleep and mood because roses contain l-theanine, an amino acid that has been shown to help alleviate anxiety and improve sleep.
But gardens aren't just about roses...
Here are some top tips from the RHS for June:
• Plant up summer hanging baskets and containers
• Use water wisely to keep your plants thriving
• Pinch out sideshoots on tomatoes
• Harvest lettuce, radish, other salads and early potatoes
• Hoe borders regularly to keep down weeds
• Mow lawns once a week, but consider leaving some areas uncut for wildlife
• Plant out summer bedding
• Stake tall or floppy plants
• Prune many spring-flowering shrubs
• Shade greenhouses to keep them cool and prevent scorch
Celebrating 150 years of education at Aldeburgh Primary School
Aldeburgh Primary School is proud to announce '150 Years of Education'. In 1875, Aldeburgh Primary School first opened its doors to the local children of Aldeburgh. It supposedly catered up to 130 boys and girls, and 200 infants.
Aldeburgh Primary School is a part of the East Anglian Schools' Trust (EAST). EAST (established in 2019) consists of four secondaries, five primaries and a special school. EAST aims to create a stronger future for schools and by working together, continuing to provide fantastic learning opportunities for students, whilst retaining individual schools' strong sense of identity.
To mark this wonderful achievement of '150 years of Education' at Aldeburgh Primary School, on June 20th, the children and staff will be delving back in time to experience life at school in the Victorian era.
Using expertise from The Long Shop, who will be bringing teachers from the Victorian
past to life, pupils will be able to experience how lessons were taught and what happened if you misbehaved!
The Long Shop, from Leiston, have carefully tailored a lesson plan for each of the different classes at Aldeburgh to give all the children a unique insight into Victorian schools. There will be chalk and slate writing, maths by abacus, not forgetting Victorian playground games. All the children will be dressed up and will also get a chance to do some Victorian cooking, from one of our local chefs.
Rounding up the day of celebrations will be Aldeburgh Primary School's 'Playground Party', where there will be Victorian singing, Maypole dancing, fair games and a photo exhibition of days gone by at the school. The children will all also have the chance to enter the 'Victorian Sponge Cake Competition' and 'Design Queen Victoria's New Crown', followed by the officially unveiling of the '150 Years of Education' plaque
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 of the links below or dropping your donation in to Chinnys where we'll make sure it's paid into the fund for you.
tobyclaudechenery .muchloved.com
by our special guest. Mrs. Norman (Head of School) comments: "It's a pleasure to be the Head at Aldeburgh Primary School during this remarkable celebration. Our school has a rich history and strong ties to the community. We've been lucky to have educated generations of the same families, reflecting our deep roots within the community. We're a small school that provides big opportunities for our students. I'm looking forward to celebrating in style on June 20th, 2025, with our current and former students and staff members."
If you previously attended Aldeburgh Primary School as a pupil or as a member of staff and would like to join in the celebrations, please do contact Mrs. Hannah Everett-Spearing on: ald.admin@eastmat.org or 01728 452150 for more details.
we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support.
Trev,
www.c-r-y.org.uk /toby-chenery
Leiston Community Defibrillator trustees appeal
Volunteers are urgently being sought to set up a charitable trust to care for a 24-hour Community Public Accessible Defibrillator site (CPAD) in Leiston, known as Leiston Community Defibrillator.
It's located at Leiston Family Hub in Waterloo Avenue and is currently the sole responsibility of the Primary Guardian who established the site in July 2017 after feeling there was the need for another CPAD site in the town.
At the time, there was just one at the East of England Co-op store in Sizewell Road. There's now a total of four, the others are at Haylings Pond in Haylings Road and Sizewell Sports & Social Club in King George's Avenue. The Waterloo Avenue CPAD site was installed with the permission of Suffolk County Council who own the building. The project was completed through receiving grants and public donations, with the assistance of Leiston-cumSizewell Town Council who kindly looked after the funds. All the monies raised were used to purchase the defibrillator, the cabinet, and a 10-year worry-free consumables package.
The defibrillator is registered with The Circuit (The National Defibrillator Network) and it's been deployed by East of England Ambulance Service Trust 18 times. It has been used once. There are currently three people caring for the site, the Primary Guardian and two Secondary Guardians. With the 10-year worry-free consumables package due to end in June 2027, fundraising needs to begin in earnest to ensure that there will be funds in place for purchasing further consumable items. In order to be able to do this, a charitable trust needs to be set up. A minimum of three trustees are required; a chairperson, a secretary, and a treasurer. However, The Charity Governance Code suggests a board of at least five, but no more than 12 trustees is typically considered good practice. Currently, there are just two people wishing to be trustees. If you'd like to become a founding trustee, please contact Linda Hawes by email: linda.hawes1@ btinternet.com or call: 01728 833903. For further information see: facebook.com/leiston. community.defibrillator
Pink Rosa x Damascena are commonly used for making tea
In memoriam
Again,
Claire, Jane, Gareth, Matti, Adam, Sal, Lenny, George, Jessie and Molly ♥ Forever in our hearts ♥
Summer Skincare
How to keep your skin safe in summer months
As the wonderfully warm weather rolls in and we spend more time outdoors, it's important to remember that summer can be tough on your skin.
While a golden tan might look appealing, the long-term effects of too much sun exposure include premature ageing, pigmentation, sunburn, and even an increased risk of skin cancer. Fortunately, with the right skincare routine and a few smart habits, you can enjoy the sunshine safely!
• Always Use Suncream: Your number one skincare essential during the summer is suncream. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 and reapply it every two hours (or more often if you're swimming or sweating). Don't forget easy-to-miss areas
like your ears, neck, hands, and the tops of your feet. A lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that doesn't clog your pores is ideal for everyday use on your face, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
• Moisturise & Hydrate: Sun exposure and heat can dry out your skin, so keeping it hydrated is key. Use a moisturiser that suits your skin type and look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera for a refreshing boost as these ingredients help with hydration. Drinking plenty of water is also really important to keep your skin (and body) healthy from the inside out.
• Stay Shady: While suncream is essential, it shouldn't be your only defence. Wear a wide-
brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and lightweight clothing that covers your skin when the sun is strongesttypically between 11am-3pm. Sitting in the shade and avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours will reduce your risk of sunburn and skin damage.
• Don't Forget After-Sun Care: If you do catch too much sun, after-sun products with cooling ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile can help soothe and calm irritated skin. Store your after-sun gel or moisturiser in the fridge for an extra-refreshing feel.
• Be Kind to Sensitive Skin: Summer can trigger flare-ups of skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, or heat rash. Choose gentle, fragrance-free products
and avoid harsh exfoliants or retinol-based treatments if your skin is irritated. Look for calming ingredients like oat extract, niacinamide, or thermal spring water.
• Check Your Skin Regularly: Make a habit of checking your skin for any new moles or changes to existing ones. If anything looks suspicious (such as irregular borders, colour changes, or unusual size) see your GP for a professional opinion.
Skincare in the summer is all about protection, hydration, and prevention. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy the sun while keeping your skin healthy and safe. After all, your skin's your body's largest organ, look after it, and it will look after you!
- Mr I. Paraskevopoulos BchD Msc RAAD - Mr W. J. Hendriks BChD (Stell) - Mr Anis Jaleel BDS (Lond) LDS, RCS (Eng) Excellent dental care for you and your family with a focus on prevention rather than cure. Our whole team is committed to making your patient journey as pleasing and comfortable as possible.
JUNE 1ST
Romeo & Juliet
Framlingham Castle
6pm (gates open). Show starts 7pm. Suitable for all. Chapterhouse Theatre Company brings the bard's beloved tragedy to the open air in timeless style. BYO rugs/low-backed seating. Tickets from: £15.40pp. Book: www.shorturl.at/lfS3o
JUNE 2ND, 9TH, 23RD & 30TH & JULY 7TH
iPad & iPhone Course
Saxmundham Library
10am-12pm. For those that can do the basics on their Apple devices. We'll be improving your confidence, learning new things, refreshing memories & answering questions over 5 weeks. £60pp. Booking essential with payment before the course (card/cash in the library).
JUNE 3RD
Met Opera: Il Barbiere di Siviglia
Aldeburgh Cinema
7:15pm. 215 mins. Be transported to the sun-drenched streets of 18th-cent. Seville as Bartlett Sher's witty production comes to the cinema! Tickets from: £10pp.
JUNE 3RD, 10TH, 17TH & 24TH
Tuesday Market
Market Hill, Framlingham
Our smaller weekday market held each Tuesday. You'll find friendly, long-standing regular traders as well as 1 pitch space shared between our casuals so this will vary each week.
JUNE 4TH, 11TH, 18TH & 25TH
Meet Up
Knodishall Methodist Church
2pm-4pm. Every Wednesday.
A small, friendly, group who get together to play board games, maybe quiz, chat, laugh & definitely have a cup of something, maybe even cake! You're invited to join us. No need to book, just come along & have fun. For more info, call Margaret: 01728 830034.
JUNE 5TH
'The Low Carb Approach' Saxmundham Library
2pm-3pm. For people with type 2 diabetes & pre diabetics. Free chat & support with Dr. Chris Barclay. Provided by Sax. Health.
WHATS ON?
JUNE 7TH
Farmers' Market
Snape Maltings
10am-2pm. Perfect opportunity to discover the best Suffolk producers. Treat yourself to an array of fresh local fare incl. cheese, chocolates, gin, juices, fruit & delicious artisan bakes.
JUNE 7TH
Mindfulness & Mandalas
Wickham Market Library
1pm-3pm. Finding your innerself through meditation & art. 7 sessions starting today. Reset your focus via meditation & art workshops on attitudes of mindfulness with aromatherapist & mandala facilitator, Gianina Dragomir & homeopath & mindfulness teacher, Jean Powis. Individual sessions £30pp, 7 sessions £170pp. To book, email: powis.dfamilyj@btinternet.com or call: 01473 737717.
JUNE 7TH
Peppa Meets the Baby (U) Woodbridge Riverside Cinema
2:30pm & 5pm. 65mins. Join Peppa Pig & her family at the cinema as they get ready for their biggest adventure yet: welcoming a new baby!
JUNE 7TH
Backstreet
Sizewell Sports & Social Club
3pm-6pm. Rock cover band playing live. Free entry. Restaurant open all day. JUNE 7TH, 14TH, 21ST & 28TH
Saturday Market Market Hill, Framlingham
Our main market of the week, held every Saturday. A varied selection of stalls with friendly long-standing regular & casual traders. More info, email: towncouncil@framlingham.com
JUNE 11TH
Bereavement Café
Imogen Holst Room, The Red House, Aldeburgh 2pm. Join us in beautiful & peaceful surroundings for our monthly Bereavement Café, run by trained volunteers. A welcoming space for those coping with loss to gather, meet, talk & find comfort & support in shared experiences. Free event, booking essential. Book at: www.shorturl.at/tcGaF
JUNE 18TH
JUNE 14TH
JUNE 11TH
A Streetcar Named Desire (15)
Aldeburgh Cinema
7pm. Gillian Anderson, Vanessa Kirby & Ben Foster lead the cast in Tennessee Williams' timeless masterpiece, returning to cinemas. Tickets from: £10pp.
JUNE 12TH
'Where are the fellows that cut the hay?'
Saxmundham Library
10am. Talk with Robert Ashton. An ode to rural life, charting traditions of the past, how they were lost & why we need to reconnect. How have farming methods become less ethical, sustainable & natural over time?
What are we doing today to reverse that change?
JUNE 13TH
A Reading of Chekhov Thorington Theatre
3:30pm-4:30pm. Presented by Britten Pears Arts. A reading of the short story that inspired this year's Aldeburgh Festival Opera, in Thorington's enchanting woodland setting. Tickets from: £10pp.
JUNE 13TH
Indie Pop
The Pumphouse, Aldeburgh 6pm. Immerse yourself in heartfelt melodies, wistful indie pop & captivating folk/pop tunes with this night of local bands & songwriters. Tickets: £25pp, under 30s half price.
JUNE 13TH
Quiz Night
Saxmundham Market Hall
6:30pm for 7pm start. Do you have what it takes to be the ultimate quiz champion? Teams of up to 6, £30 per table. Call Justine 07368 214377 to book your table.
JUNE 13TH
Aldeburgh Festival Opera:
A Visit to Friends I Snape Maltings Concert Hall
7:30pm. The world premiere of Colin Matthews' first opera, with a libretto by William Boyd, based on an intriguing Chekhov short story. An opera about love. Or, more accurately, about love's frustrations. Sung in English.
Fram Writers:
Suffolk Authors Book Fair
Castle Community Rooms
10am-4pm. Come & meet a showcase of Suffolk Authors. Free entry & free parking, with tea, coffee & homemade cakes by Wilby WI. More info, email: russellwebb@live.co.uk
JUNE 14TH
The Chocolate Fireguard Experience Sizewell Sports & Social Club 3pm-6pm. 70s glam rock. Free entry.
JUNE 14TH
Aldeburgh Festival Opera:
A Visit to Friends II Snape Maltings Concert Hall 4pm. A 2nd showing of Colin Matthews & William Boyd's 1st opera, based on an intriguing Chekhov short story. An opera about love. Or, more accurately, about love's frustrations. Sung in English.
JUNE 15TH
Aldeburgh Festival Service
Aldeburgh Church
10:30am-12pm. New music by featured composers Helen Grime & Daniel Kidane is at the heart of the annual Festival Service, held in the original spiritual home of the Aldeburgh Festival. Free event.
JUNE 15TH
Fu & Betts-Dean:
Solitude with Schubert Britten Studio, Snape Maltings 2pm. A beautiful Schubert recital with stars George Fu & Lotte Betts-Dean in which grief mingles with consolation, combined with a film exploring the loss of a loved one.
JUNE 16TH
'Women's Lives on the Farm' talk by Dr. Janet Few Fromus Centre, Saxmundham 2:30pm. Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group talk. A look at the role of our female rural ancestors, considering the many skills that our female rural ancestors would've needed to master, both in the farmhouse & on the land. Open to all. Members £1pp, visitors £3pp (incl. tea/ coffee/biscuits)
Free Family History Advice
Aldeburgh Library, IP15 5EG 2pm-4pm. Interested in family history? Want to track down ancestors? On the 3rd Wednesday of the month, members of the Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group are at the library to offer free advice & guidance. No need to book, just drop in!
JUNE 19TH Qi Gong Saxmundham Library 2:15pm-3:30pm. Gentle exercise support for anyone on their cancer journey & their carers. Free sessions with a very understanding, supportive & qualified tutor. Just turn up!
JUNE 21ST Summer Market
The Hill, Wickham Market 9am-2pm. 35+ stalls selling hand-crafted gifts, homeware, jewellery, pottery & flowers, artisan food & drink plus ice cream van, face painting & Community Choir performing. A wonderful opportunity to celebrate summer!
JUNE 21ST
Coffee Morning & Mini Summer Show
United Free Church Hall, Framlingham 10am-11:45am. Raffle, refreshments & plants for sale. Incl. entry displays from the Framlingham Rainbows & Brownies. Entry is free, non-members are welcome to exhibit. Details of class schedule available from: rogerandgwenetheridge78@ gmail.com or call: 01728 724406.
JUNE 21ST & 22ND
Bluey: Let's Play Chef (U) Woodbridge Riverside Cinema 2:30pm on the 21st & 3pm on the 22nd. Bluey at the cinema! 1hr-long treat for fans of Bluey to enjoy, made up of 8 episodes from the TV show's 3 series, all based around the fun of food!
JUNE 21ST
A Midsummer Night's Dream Thorington Theatre 7pm-9:15pm. Presented by Facsimile Productions. British Touring Shakespeare return with their hilarious new production. Suitable for all. Tickets from: £20pp.
JUNE 21ST & 22ND
Craft & Gift Fair - The Shire
Hall & Market Square
Raising money for St. Elizabeth's Hospice as part of the 'Hop to it'
Art Trail.
JUNE 22ND
Vintage & Classic
Vehicle Show
Sizewell Sports & Social Club Cars arrive 9am. Event starts 11am. All vehicles welcome, no booking required. Vehicle entry donation £1pp. Tea, coffee & cake stalls, outside bar, craft fair, BBQ, live music.
JUNE 22ND Nature Walk Thorpeness Meare, Leiston 10:15am (meet at the Meere). Suffolk Wildlife Trust walk led by Steve Massey. £5pp cash. No dogs. Suitable for children 12+. Call Steve or Zena to book, as places are limited: 01728 831231.
JUNE 23RD
Stevie Wishart: The Foliate Bosses
Building 7, Snape Maltings 4:30pm & 5:30pm. Composer & hurdy-gurdy player Stevie Wishart gives a live performance of her new work, commissioned to accompany Julian Perry's
major exhibition 'The Foliate Bosses'. Tickets: £8pp.
JUNE 24TH
Mélodies & Lieder
Aldeburgh Church 11am. Wonderful French & German song performed by 2 song duos, all recent alumni of the Britten Pears Young Artist Programme.
JUNE 26TH Qi Gong
Saxmundham Library 2:15pm-3:30pm. Gentle exercise support for anyone on their cancer journey & their carers. Free sessions with a very understanding, supportive & qualified tutor. Just turn up!
JUNE 26TH
Quiz - Thorpeness Pavilion 7:15pm for 7:30pm start. Teams of 6. £2pp. BYO nibbles. Bar available. Call Steve/Zena, 01728 831231, to book places. Spaces limited.
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.
Exciting times continue at Suffolk County Music Service!
We've completed the move of our admin base to Martlesham, and our team are very settled in the new building and taking the opportunity to enjoy the local walks; whether to the novelty of shops or on the well-maintained footpaths which lead in all directions!
Suffolk Youth Wind Band rehearsing in the Royal Hospital School's Jellico Room in April 2025 over the past academic year. The schools and their children are invited to Trinity Park Ipswich, the Apex in Bury St. Edmunds or London Road Baptist Church in Lowestoft where they spend the day rehearsing all together. Then in the afternoon, parents are welcomed in to watch the concert. WCET Fest runs from June 16th27th this year.
In April, we had a very successful Easter residential course at a new venue for us, the Royal Hospital School. This ended with a lovely concert in their chapel, with performances from Suffolk Young Strings, Suffolk Youth Wind Band and Suffolk Youth Orchestra. It was very well received by all who attended.
"I loved the concert and was so impressed with the young performers what talent they all have." - Liz Harsant, Chair of Suffolk County Council.
This month, we're really looking forward to the annual WCET Fest, which is a popular celebration of our whole class ensemble tuition, which has taken place in schools across Suffolk
We're also really pleased to say that following a raffle held at our Easter Concert, we've now exceeded our fundraising target for our St. Elizabeth Hospice campaign. Donations can still be made on the Suffolk County Music Service/St. Elizabeth Hospice Enthuse page www. shorturl.at/feHtz and our total can be viewed here too.
Please visit: suffolkcountymusicservice. co.uk, where you can learn more about the wide range of activities we offer your children and young people at different locations across the county. Follow us on our socials for more updates and find out how you can join in!
2 BULLARDS LANE, WOODBRIDGE, IP12 4HD
Tel: 01394 387728 Mobile: 07860 413994
eustonhall.co.uk/event-list
Get ready to rock as tribute bands announced for this year's SaxFest
The much-loved Saxundham Community Festival (fondly referred to as SaxFest by locals) is set to make a lively return on August 8th and 9th. Held at the Memorial Field, Rendham Road, Saxmundham, this year's event promises to deliver an electrifying mix of music, community spirit, and entertainment. A standout of the weekend will be the tribute acts, showcasing some of the finest impersonators in the business. From legendary rock gods to an iconic Swedish pop act, the bill has been created to entertain music fans of every generation. Revellers can look forward to a weekend packed with captivating performances, sing-along classics and pure nostalgic joy.
August 8th: ABBA Chique Tribute Festival-goers can sing and dance along to Sweden's biggest band, as a fabulous tribute act ABBA Chique, brings all the glitter, glamour and Waterloo-
worthy moves to the stage. With timeless hits and infectious energy, the performance promises to have the crowd reliving pop glory days! Will there be a The Winner Takes It All as they dance the night away?
August 9th: UK Queen with Alexander Koronka
The electrifying UK Queen
tribute act (pictured above) will have attendees experiencing Queen's glory days with flawless renditions of Bohemian Rhapsody, Don't Stop Me Now and other timeless anthems. Crowds can expect the full Mercury experience - soaring vocals, theatrical showmanship and irresistible sing-a-long moments.
Terry Barrow (Festival Director) said of this year's tributes: "We're so pleased to bring such incredible tribute acts to SaxFest this year! The ABBA and Queen tributes are real crowdpleasers, whether you're a Dancing Queen or a Champion ready to be rocked, there's something for everyone. These bands don't just
play the hits; they bring the full glam, energy, and nostalgia of the originals. So grab your friends and family, warm up those vocal cords, and get ready for a weekend of unforgettable tunes. You won't want to miss this!"
In addition to live performances, the festival will feature workshops, children's activities, fringe events, and community organisations offering advice on education, finance, health and wellbeing.
Now a staple of the summer calendar, SaxFest continues to bring the community together through its lively atmosphere and diverse programming. Whether a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, this year's festival offers something for everyone.
For more information, updates, and how to get involved, contact Hayley Shave at: hayley@saxmusicfest.co.uk or call: 07725 578439, you can also visit: www.saxcommunityfest.co.uk
