EyeMagazine Dec Jan

ISSUE 525

DECEMBER 2025 / JANUARY 2026

What’s inside Young Artist Award exhibition Sean Sibthorpe Q&A Church & Council news Local business features What’s On EyeSpy

FOR THE PEOPLE OF EYE AND DISTRICT

EyeMagazineSuffolk

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 2

be well barn SUFFOLK

Your local health & wellness centre

Focus on your health, fitness, and well-being. Explore a range of classes, suitable for all ages and abilities, and discover our sustainable, private-hire fitness and spa pods.

Pay-As-You-Go or Membership

www.bewellbarn.co.uk Redlingfield • IP23 7QP 01379 831 565 • hello@bewellbarn.co.uk

café & bar

Our café, bar and terrace are open to all. Join us for food, drinks and live music nights, or consider private function hire for your next event.

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3

EYE COMMUNITY CENTRE

Tickets £5 in advance from the Handyman or pay (cash only) on the door. Film trailers and more information can be found on the website:

www.cinema-at-eye.org.uk Sponsored by Caféye Part of registered charity no. 1012697

Friday 23 January 2026, 7.30pm

(15)

Old tensions resurface when former bandmates who were former lovers reunite for a private show at the island home of an eccentric millionaire.

2 02I5 F & JAN C H O C EYE O MAGAZINE L A T E | RD ECEMBER I E , G T UARY S H2026 O P| PA GE &4 C A F E

SHOP Handmade chocolates,

greetings cards, baby gifts, jewellery, accessories & homeware

OPENING TIMES

CAFÉ

9am-3pm Wednesday-Saturday

Serving tea, coffee, cakes

9am-1pm Tuesday

4 BROAD ST, EYE IP23 7AF 01379 870688

www.cocoamama.co.uk

and hot chocolate in our

courtyard, heated barn or takeaway

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 5

H

Contents

ello and welcome to the December and January issue of The Eye Magazine.

Christmas and New Year isn't always a time of celebration.

For many it can be a lonely 3 Cinema at Eye time and many people can 6 The Bank Arts Centre feel isolated. Let’s be kind and 10 Chef Sean Q&A check in on each other and our 13 Lucy's News neighbours.

E Y E MAGAZI N E | N O V E MB E R 20 24 | P AGE 5 14 Council News Wishing you all health and 17 Nature Notes happiness.

20 Eye Town Moors PHONE A HELPLINE 27 The car is at the door 28 Natural Christmas cheer NHS 111. eating is on,day. jumpers from United and Call 111 – 24 hours every 33 EyeKingdom Archives and coats out and the Commonwealth. We will 37 Dove River Church Samaritans – for everyone November has remember them.

40 Eye Opportunity Group definitely arrived. With it we Call 116 123 Sunday 10th November 3 Cinema at have the beautiful autumn 43 Eye & District Twinning Meet at fire station at 10.30am 6 Lest we for Campaign Against Living colours and sparkly, frosty Association if in parade. Set off at 10.45am, morning and starry nights.

8 The Fabric Miserably (CALM) 45 toEmbracing mental march town hall. Service at 12 Council Ne Call 0800In 58 58 very full Eye well-being this 58 month’s the memorial and last post and 13 Lucy’s New Magazine we have lots of minutes at 11am.

Then 48 silence Regular events Mind's support line on 0300 lovely ‘save the dates’ coming set off to the church for service 17 Meet Cllr. R 52 What's on 102 1234. up This is a safeready space in December, for for till about 12pm.

18 Eye Town M Christmas lotsmental on in Eye in 54 Fun activities & EyeSpy 21 Nature Not you to talk aboutand your November too. health. Advisors are trained to 26 The timing remembra Many thanks to all the regular listen to you.

With late night shopping on the 5th of December, Eye will be buzzing. I'd like to give special thanks to Bruce Salter, the owner of The Handyman who works tirelessly to make it a huge success every year.

Did you know that shopping locally has so many benefits for our town?

H

H-ON & T SHOPPING

51% of people think a vibrant high street is important when choosing where to live, and 32% are shopping more locally than they were five years ago.

December Almost 40% of money spent locally stays in the community, supporting local merchants and at 5pm their communities. Shopping ch-Onlocally can lead to a smaller environmental footprint due 6pm to reduced transportation needs. So, let’s use all our shops in Eye so we don't lose them.

Conte

contributors and those who 29 Dove River have written in this issue. We 30 We need v Wendy Aiken have some really interesting 34 Eye Bowls C EDITOR, EYE MAGAZINE articles for the lead up to 38 Health & Fi Remembrance Day. Eye always editoreyemag@gmail.com 41 Embracing has a great turn out for the well-being Remembrance parade and 42 Regular ev church service, where we can all come together and we unite 45 What’s On across faiths, cultures and Outflux | Printed by Healeys Print Group Photography by Wendy Aiken | Magazine design

by Sharon Teague, 50 Fun Activiti Wendy Aiken backgrounds to remember 50 EyeSpy EDITOR, EYE MAGAZINE the service and sacrifice of

Contact us

the Armed Forces Community EVENTS AND EDITORIAL CONTENT

editoreyemag@gmail.com

Please email the editor at editoreyemag@gmail.com by 5 January

by Wendy Aiken | Magazine design by Sharon Teague, Outflux | Printed by Healey for content toPhotography appear in the February issue. Entry to the regular events listing is free, don’t forget to include date, time, location, event AND EDITORIAL description, contact information andEVENTS a photo if you have CONTENT one.

Contact Us To book an advert please email our accounts department at

Please email the editor at editoreyemag@gmail.com by for content to appear in the December / January issue. En regular events listing is free, don’t forget to include date, t event description, contact information and a photo if you

ADVERTISING

acceyemagazine@gmail.com. For new adverts please ask for our ADVERTISING Rate Card. All adverts must be paid for in advance.

To book an advert please email our accounts departmen acceyemagazine@gmail.com. For new adverts please a Advert artwork should be sent to advertisingeyemag@gmail.com us on Facebook All adverts must be paid for in advance. by 5 January for Follow content to appear inRate theCard.

February issue.

Photo courtesy of Clive Stevens

Follow us on Facebook for more local content EyeMagazineSuffolk

for more local content EyeMagazineSuffolk

Advert artwork should be sent to advertisingeyemag@gm by 5 November for content to appear in the December/Ja

The Editor reserves the right to amend or omit any copy submitted without notice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure The Editor reserves the right to amend or omit any copy submitted without notice. Whilst every effort is m accuracy, CRAFT no liability can be accepted for loss or damage error orfor inaccuracy in caused the printing of any accuracy,caused no liabilityby canany be accepted loss or damage by any error or inaccuracy in the prin CAROL MINIATURE advertisement copy in the Eye Magazine.advertisement or editorial copy in the Eye Magazine.

SINGING STALLSor editorial DONKEYS

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 6

The Bank Arts Centre YOUNG ARTIST AWARD 2025 & NEW CAMPBELL GALLERY

Y

oung creativity is thriving at The Bank as it’s Young Artist Award returns for it 4th year.

The Award was launched in 2022 to provide a platform for creative students based in EastAnglia and formally recognise those who are dedicated to developing practical skills in the Arts. This annual event includes a group exhibition at The Bank, featuring the work of over 50 students from High Schools and Colleges across Suffolk and Norfolk, and awards evening to present commendations, prizes, and opportunities to support their continued development in creative disciplines.

The Award continues to grow each year and we are proud to now be working with six partner schools - Abbeygate Sixth Form College (Bury St Edmunds), Debenham High School, Diss High School & Sixth Form, Hartismere School (Eye), One College (Ipswich) and West Suffolk College (Bury St Edmunds). It is a real privilege

to visit end of year showcases and see the work of so many dedicated and skilled students across GCSE, A Level and Foundation courses.

To make the event extra special, this year’s Young Artist Award is the first exhibition taking place in our newly renovated Gallery.

The project was made possible

by The Abbey Foundation - honouring the estate and legacy of prolific local artist Peter Campbell (1931-1989).

Alongside the foundation’s aims of recording and archiving Peter’s life and works, they approved the project to support The Bank as a cultural and community asset. The project

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 7

has seen a significant redesign and full renovation of the space, transforming it into a Gallery to provide our community with inclusive access to the visual arts and creative opportunities.

The awards evening taking place on Thursday 27th November and will see representatives from The Bank and The Abbey Foundation presenting students with numerous prizes and opportunities – including the “Community Choice Award” (voted for by visitors to The Bank! and “Young Artist Award 2025” with both recipients being offered the opportunity to have a solo exhibition at The Bank in 2026.

Our sincerest thank you to The Abbey Foundation, Go Large and The Arts Society, Diss, for their generous support, involvement and donations towards this year’s prizes; and to the Heads of Departments and teaching staff at our partner schools for your time and support in coordinating this year’s Awards Exhibition.

The Young Artist Award has become a highlight in our exhibitions calendar for

both our team and visitors.

Congratulations to all our featured students on your creative achievements the energy, innovation and exploration demonstrated in your work is inspirational, and we are very excited to support you on your creative pathways.

The exhibition is open until Saturday 20th December (during general opening: Wednesday to Saturday, 10.30am to 3.30pm).

The Bank Arts Centre is a volunteer-led, not-for-profit creative hub run by Eyes Open CIC. We host an eclectic programme of exhibitions,

live music, theatre, comedy, activities, workshops and classes alongside our family friendly café. www.thebankeye.org

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 8

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 9

PODIATRY AND FOOT CARE SPECIALIST

T HE WHO L E BO DY WAL KS

BETTER FEET • BETTER BODY • BETTER LIFE We see all types of foot problems and will tell you what you've got, if it can be fixed and what it will take.

We offer: • Podiatry, chiropody and reflexology • Gait scan technology foot assessments • Doppler ultrasound vascular assessment • Diabetic foot checks • Laser/Light therapy • Foot mobilisation for painful feet • Joya and YDA shoes • Specialist and luxurious socks

01379 870111 info@lifesole.co.uk 1 Church Street, Eye IP23 7BB www.lifesole.co.uk HCPC Registered, Member of the Royal College of Podiatry and The Institute of Chiropodists and Podiatrists

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 10

B USI N ESS FEAT UR E

Chef Sean T

&

his months Q&A is with local chef Sean Sibthorpe, if you have eaten at The Bank Arts Centre you will have enjoyed his wonderful food. I see Sean walking his little dog so many times a day and it always makes me smile.

Q. How long have you lived in Eye? A. I arrived in Eye roughly three and half years ago by chance.

Coming from Essex I was new to the area so it was a daunting prospect at the time. Although now, I am very happy to call Eye my home and could not imagine living anywhere else.

Q. What do you love about living in Eye? A. The people. From the first day I moved to Eye I found everyone I met to be very warm, welcoming, and helpful. I feel very fortunate to have settled in such a lovely community and made many good friends I grew up in a small village so for me living in Eye evokes a certain

amount of nostalgia from my childhood of living in such a tight nit community. Eye and the surrounding areas are a perfect setting for walking my dog and I never tire of the beautiful scenery whether that be strolling through the woods or just admiring the local wildlife.

Q. Where did you train to be a chef and how long have you been a chef?

A. I started out as a kitchen porter at the age of 14 working in a local Pub. After school I trained as a commis chef and progressed from there. I have had various roles over the last 30 years which have taken me from London, to the west country and France.

“ It is important to have your own personality on the plate”

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 11

Q. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

A. I enjoy the outdoors so I am often out walking with my little dog. My work keeps me very busy so on my down time I like to just relax to music, audiobooks or a good podcast and spending quality time with friends over a coffee and a nice piece of cake!

Q. What is your personal favourite dish?

A. I cannot say there is anything specific that I like to eat... I think a good meal is more about the company you enjoy it with. Just getting together with friends and family and diving into a big bowl of mussels those are the most memorable and enjoyable meals for me.

Q. Where do you get your inspiration for the menus/food you create?

A. As a chef you are not cooking for yourself so the menus, I come up with are always largely based on a particular demographic. However, it is important to have your own personality on the plate. I think a good meal is more about the company you enjoy it with so I tend to keep things simple. I do like to revisit old cook books and just think about the kind of foods my grandmother would serve up.

Q. Do you have a favourite season for food?

A. I would have to say winter because of the types of dishes one would eat at that time of year. I am a fan of good hearty stews and pies; you just cannot beat it on a cold winter’s day. I guess it suits my style of food. I am basically a lazy cook.

“I think a good meal is more about the company you enjoy it with”

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 12

Kooka Kleen

01379 629230 07928 321329

Advanced oven cleaning in your home

W: ovencleaningharleston.co.uk E: kookakleeninfo@gmail.com

Making ovens look new since 2004 No smell, No mess and No hidden costs Contact us today for a no obligation quote

Before:

After:

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 13

Lucy’s news

E

nergy efficiency upgrades now easier for listed buildings

Eye is lucky to have a large number of listed buildings, but they can be expensive to keep warm. A new initiative from Mid Suffolk and Babergh Councils – one of the first of its kind in the country – will now help owners of Grade II listed buildings to make their homes more energy efficient. Subject to certain conditions, you can now install secondary glazing on historic windows, or replace windows, without needing to apply for Listed Building Consent. Mid Suffolk and Babergh have been working with Historic England to pilot this change. For details of what’s permitted please see:

https://www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/ llbco Victoria Mill repairs On the topic of local heritage, in November repairs were completed to the remains of Eye’s Victoria Mill. The team repaired the mill’s brickwork, and installed a new signboard with information on the history of the mill. (Eye Archive and Heritage Group has further information on the mill’s

story.) You can find the mill between Millfield and the town allotments, if you’d like to take a look at this piece of Eye’s agricultural history.

Work is also being done to improve the biodiversity of this small green space. New hedges have been planted.

Plans are also being developed to allow the bee orchids and other wildflowers to flourish - thanks to neighbours who shared information about the wildflowers growing there.

Cost of living support This can be a difficult time of year for many, with energy bills and the cost of living still high. Please see https://www. midsuffolk.gov.uk/cost-of-living for information on the help that is available. You can also pop in to Eye Library on Friday mornings to speak to Citizen’s Advice and to staff from Mid Suffolk District Council. Support is there – please do reach out.

For District Council issues, please contact me and I will try my best to help: email lucy.elkin@midsuffolk.gov.uk or phone 07928 512590 For news and updates, find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CllrLucy See you soon, Lucy

(District Councillor for Eye, Occold and Redlingfield)

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 14

Council news

I

t is December! Well, actually, this is being written in the day after Remembrance Sunday.

It was heartwarming to see so many of the town's young people at the memorial as both participants and viewers. And despite it being a day of solemn remembrance, it was also a day of joy for so many proud parents and family members to see their children being a part of something so important. A special shout out to Bruce Salter for marshalling us all outside and in Church, Pinky Palmer at the Church for sorting who goes where, Sally Salter as star baker for the reception, Ruby Salter, Angela Rangecroft and Mary Ager for serving and washing up, Mike Smith for sorting the traffic and Steve Smith for ensuring our Town Hall Clock was bang on time!

Late Night Shop is 5th December with Christmas Lights switch on at 6pm.

Special welcome to all our new residents who may be attending for the first time. This is a fun for all ages community event and Father Christmas will be paying a visit! A reminder to bring some cash and to use the cash machine well before hand.

The queue has been known to get long and we all know the

up Magdalen Street. Shazan is also expanding its internal parking lot which will hopefully ease parking at Cross Street.

Management has told ETC that they are not planning on expanding operating hours in the foreseable future.

The Town Hall has had a much needed coat of paint inside and doors and sills will be next. The chapels at the cemetery have new roofs and soon the rose garden will be completed.

machine occasionally runs out on a Friday. We have been assured that this will be the best Late Night Shop to date!

Keep an 'eye' out for posters, social media and other adverts for festive events throughout the month and of course the Dove Players pantomine, Sing a Song of Sixpence Pence, in January!

Have you noticed any factory smells lately?

Shazan has had only one complaint (and it wasn't them) since installing the new odour scrubbers in June.

They are in the process of re-opening the other gate so HGVs won't be travelling as far

The Council remain in talks (along with the Brome Ave Residents Group and other parishes) with EcoSuffolk regarding solar farms. ETC will continue to work with Persimmon Homes to make Castleton Grange a desirable place to live with eventually flats and 2/3 bed houses going forward on Phase 3 (Policy Eye 8 of the Neighbourhood Plan).

The Suffolk Water Recycling, Transfer and Storage Project Consultation is still open until 10 December. Simply type Suffolk Water Network in to your search engine or go directly to suffolkwaternetwork.co.uk.

Eye Town Council would like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and holiday season as well as a very happy and rewarding 2026!

EYE TOWN COUNCIL, VOLUNTEER CENTRE, 20 BROAD STREET, EYE, SUFFOLK, IP23 7AF TOWN CLERK: Michelle Salazar | Tel: 07713 196251 | Email: townclerk@eyesuffolk.org OC

ULU

S - IN - COE

EYE

LU M

Website: www.eyesuffolk.org Facebook: eyetowncouncil

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 15

NORFOLK & SUFFOLK SELF STORAGE A140 Self Storage Warehouse, A140 Ipswich Road, Brome, Eye, Suffolk. IP23 8AW

Our self storage warehouse on the A140 at the Brome Business Park offers palletised wooden crate storage, the highest quality storage crates available.

Our wooden crates are designed to breathe preventing sweating and mildew and stand on a fixed wooden pallet raised off the ground stopping items drawing moisture and eliminating damp.

Our metal storage containers are custom built for storage with bamboo floors and 14 vents so your furniture can breathe inside without drawing moisture and damp, making them the perfect storage unit for your goods.

Personal storage Business storage Furniture storage Caravan storage Container storage

Storage rates start from just £9 a week including VAT with no deposit to pay Storage shipping containers from £20 a week including VAT 24/7 Access

www.a140selfstorage.co.uk | 01379 870407 / 07771 638999 | info@a140selfstorage.co.uk

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 16

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 17

Nature Notes Stocking up for Christmas Love them or loathe them, grey squirrels have firmly claimed their spot in UK nature, and possibly your garden. They’re clever, crafty and apparently have a sweet tooth.

When I lived in London, I’d bring our potted Christmas tree indoors each year, only to find half-buried chocolate bars in the soil—Kit-Kats, Mars bars, Crunchies. I’d ask myself how the hell are chocolate bars ending up buried in the pot with the Christmas tree? A few days later I saw a squirrel sneaking under the eaves of the corner shop. Moments later, it scampered up the garden fence with a Cadbury Whole Nut chocolate bar in its jaws. Turns out, this wasn’t just a nut-hoarder—it was a festive chocoholic. This squirrel was truly stocking up for Christmas.

Merry Christmas to you all.

Adrian Barnard | www.wildhaven.art

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 18

‘To Be Our Best.’

Is Your Child Starting School in September 2026?

Book a personal appointment to view the School on 01379 783376 or Email office@mellisprimaryschool.org Find out more about us by visiting www.mellis.suffolk.sch.uk Instagram: search for ‘mellisceprimaryschool’

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 19

• Water Softeners New Sales, Service and Repairs

• Drinking Water Systems • Boiling Water Taps • Salt Deliveries Tablet and Blocks

www.clarity-water.co.uk 01379 871020 info@clarity-water.co.uk T H E G A B L E S , E Y E R O A D, B R O M E , E Y E , S U F F O L K I P 2 3 8 A L

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 20

Community update The Eye Town Moors Woodland Society PHILLIP WILCOX-MOORE, CHAIR, EYE TOWN MOORS WOODLAND SOCIETY healthy and strong. The Healing Way path itself has become well established, with vegetation now completely grown through the plastic grid we installed, creating a natural, accessible surface. At our November work party, volunteers worked hard scything this area to help it remain as accessible as possible for all our visitors.

W

ow! It’s been another busy year down at the woods.

Looking back at our work from this time last year, we'd been clearing the ditches and maintaining the moat system, we’d planted native bluebells, and we'd welcomed three new anniversary trees from Rosedale Funeral Homes, which were planted along the Healing Way. The trustee team had also started building better relationships with the Environment Agency, Woodland Trust and River Waveney Trust to improve our understanding of the crucial role the town woods plays in managing flood water in our local area.

A year on, I’m pleased to report that those anniversary trees have settled beautifully into their new home and are looking

This year has brought many highlights worth celebrating.

Our community survey results provided invaluable insights that have helped shape our future plans (please look out

for a new survey in the New Year where we'll be seeking your views once again). Our woodland Easter egg hunt proved to be a great success and will certainly be repeated next year. We've also been successful with several grant funding applications, securing essential finances for long-term infrastructure improvements including new bridges, information signs, and additional seating throughout the woodland. None of this would be possible without our small but dedicated group of volunteers, and it's amazing what our team can achieve in just a few hours each month.

Looking ahead, I admit that some of our larger projects have taken longer to get started than I'd originally hoped.

However, I’m delighted to say that our new bridges have arrived and will be installed by volunteers in December. The pond restoration work and the viewing mound at the north end of the site are also planned and, fingers crossed, will have been started if not completed by the time you read this. Another really exciting and important piece of work completed this year has been a comprehensive survey of the woods, mapping the entire site and reporting on all our trees. This means we

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 21

can now schedule tree work and keep everyone updated about tree planting, felling, and general woodland upkeep. We have loads more exciting things planned for 2026, so please keep reading the brilliant Eye magazine for updates.

From all of us at the Eye Town Moors Woodland Society, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Here's to another year of progress, and community spirit in our beautiful and unique town woodland.

Finally, as our community continues to grow, so does our need for more volunteers. Our current numbers are reducing as life takes people in different directions, and we need your help to continue to manage the woods and help it thrive for future generations. So, whatever your experience, skills, or need, whether you're handy with tools, knowledgeable about trees, great with people, love being in nature, or simply want to be part of something meaningful and socialise outdoors, there's a place for you with us. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference so come and be part of the Eye Town Moors Woodland Society.

If you’re interested in getting involved, joining our volunteer team, or supporting our work, please contact Chris Willoughby (tollgate53@icloud.com) or Phillip WilcoxMoore (philwilcox2@gmail.com) for more information. The Eye Town Moors Woodland Society meets at 10am, at the west side of the Community Centre car park, on the third Sunday of every month.

Our next working party is scheduled for 21st December.

Nick Bobby Tree Services • Professional service • Stump grinding • Garden clearance • All aspects of tree work undertaken • Seasoned firewood • Competitive rates • Fully insured • Free quotations

www.nickbobbytreeservices.co.uk Call 01379 871459 / 07545 989081

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 22

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 23

EYE HANDYMAN IRONMONGERY + HARDWARE SHOP

From

to...

Opening hours: 7am to 4pm Monday to Saturday 8 Broad St, Eye IP23 7AF 01379 870030

Hardware & Tools Decorating & Paint Gardening & Seeds Pet supplies Electrical Light bulbs Kitchenware Stationery Key cutting Batteries .... and more!

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 24

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 25

• All Household Plumbing, Large or Small • Full Bathroom Installation • All Work Anglian Water Certified • 24 Hour Emergency Call Out

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 26

illuminarta

by Marcus Gilbert

BRIGHT IDEAS DESERVE BRILLIANT DESIGN

CREATIVE STORAGE SOLUTIONS TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS

Marcus Gilbert BA(Hons) Fine Art 07708 398338

Helping your business shine in print & online

info@illuminarta.com illuminarta.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN + ART | OUTFLUX.CO.UK

LVT, Carpets, Runners and Sisal We have moved to – 19 Church Street, Eye IP23 7BD

01379 870190

07850573366

OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 10AM – 4PM AND SATURDAY 10AM – 1PM

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 27

THE CAR IS AT THE DOOR

The car is at the door

Alfred King, born in 1891, had many tales from his 35 years working as a chauffeur at the very early stages of motoring in both Norwich, working for the Bishop, and in Eye, for the Tacon family. The chauffeur was also the mechanic, navigator, finder of fuel and occasional mind-reader. His story has been charmingly retold by his son Eric, who was himself a local historian, and includes his life as a child during the war in the villages of Brome and Oakley.

T

Mayor’s Sunday at Eye 1913: Sir Thomas Tacon in his Bianchi Mayor’s Sunday at Eye 1913: Sir Thomas Tacon in his Bianchi This is also the tale of a stately home, Brome Hall, built like a palace

with the proceeds theinfall which ledstory to theofowner being to the owner beingofput theof Calais, And it is the a car, a put in the Tower of London, to its requisition during WWII Tower of London, through to throughBianchi Tourer built in 1910, and finally its during demolition.

Just two families owned the Hall for 400 its requisition WWII and which has remained in the finally its demolition.

Just two Tacon family ever since. years before the Tacons.

The story of a chauffeur by his son, the late Eric Dennis King 1990 he story of a chauffeur by his son, the late Eric Dennis King 1990. Edited

by Christine Tacon 2024.

Alfred King, born in 1891, had

families owned the Hall for 400

And it is the story of a car, a Bianchi Tourer built in 1910, which has

years before the Tacons.

Edited Christine 2024 many talesby from his 35 years Tacon remained in the Tacon family ever since. working as a chauffeur at the very early stages of motoring in both Norwich, working for the Bishop, and in Eye, for the Tacon family.

The chauffeur was also the mechanic, navigator, finder of fuel and occasional mindreader. His story has been charmingly retold by his son Eric, who was himself a local historian, and includes his life as a child during the war in the villages of Brome and Oakley.

This is also the tale of a stately home, Brome Hall, built like a palace with the proceeds of the fall of Calais, which led

ScanScan QR code order £10+£3 £1p&p 0+£3 p& p QR to code to order Visit www.thecarisatthedoor.co.uk

Visit www.thecarisatthedoor.co.uk

Email picturemakinghero@gmail.com

Email picturemakinghero@gmail.com

All profits go to Brome and Oakley All profits go to Brome and Oakley churches andCemetery Eye Cemetery chapel churches and Eye Chapel

ISBN 978-1-3999-9497-2 ISBN 978-1-3999-9497-2

SWITCH-ON & LATE-NIGHT SHOPPING

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 28

I

Starts at 5pm

t’s that social and celebratory time of year. Get out in the community, and into the spirit in and around Eye. Whether making your own treats, or buying local crafty gifts, there are plenty of wholesome and sustainable ways to warm the cockles.

2

Eye Christmas Light Switch-on Friday 5th December, 5.30-7.30pm.

Outdoor craft stalls and loved local businesses open up their doors for late night shopping, with exciting pop ups like Jimmys Xmas Bar at Cocoa Mama Chocolatiers, and wreath making with Fleurs Artisan.

3 4

Venture a little further outdoors with the family to make your own Christmas reindeer at Dunwich Heath December 6th and 20th.

5

Nordmann Fir Trees for sale at Kings Farm on the 5th, 6th and 7th December. For every tree purchased, they plant three new saplings.

There is also a rental option - hire a living, potgrown tree for the festive season and return it afterward to be replanted.

6 7

Switch-On at 6pm

1

2

SHOPS OPEN

FUN FAIR

FOOD & DRINK

CAROL SINGING

CRAFT STALLS

Photo courtesy of Clive Stevens

1

3

Friday 5 December

Tasty gifts for your loved ones The Food Hub Cookery School on the Kenton Estate near Debenham, have numerous cookery classes on offer including pasta, patisserie and themed cuisine nights.

Visit English Antiques for a truly unique and timeless gift. This pretty re-usable perfume casket would befit any discerning dressing table.

9

8

Christmas paint palette ‘Midnight Ivy’ roots the scheme with its intriguing depth.

It’s bluey tones are complimented by ‘Norfolk Flint’, or green tones highlighted by ‘Crab Apple’.

For a neutral base, pair with ‘Winter Acorn’ and add a warm, luxurious contrast with ‘Boleyn Rose’.

From Fenwick and Tilbrook, Attleborough.

12

13

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 29

5

by local interior designer JEN COOPER

www.nifti.co.uk 4 6

This Harrods ham stand from Green Door Decorative would add an extra special kind of décor to your Christmas spread, along with these desert knives. Keep your eyes peeled for their cute charity Christmas cards, too.

You’ll not be stuck for help with your Christmas shopping in Cocoa Mama Chocolatiers, with the most delicious offering of Christmassy chocolate truffles. The gift shop is full of stocking fillers; like these quirky ‘song a day’ notebooks, and St. Eval dinner candles in an assortment of colours.

If you want to wrap up the beautiful smell in Blackbrook Interiors, this cracker candle set by the Botanical Gift Co. is just the thing.

Freshen up your tree decor with these elegant smoky green glass baubles, and encourage creativity through this useful ‘Guide to a Handmade Christmas’ book.

The Bank Arts centre are currently running their ‘Young Artist award’ exhibition. Very impressive, and well worth a look. Perhaps have a hearty lunch from their varied food menu whilst you’re there!

10

Keep those toes warm with this lovely selection of bamboo socks in Dream On.

11

There’s always something to help with your craft projects at The Fabric Shop like these natural festive ribbons, great for adding a bit ‘extra’ to your gift wrapping.

14

15

House your homemade preserves in classic Kilner jars, and be ready for those last minute baking jobs with some paper cake cases, both available at The Handyman.

The Families Together Charity Shop have a vast selection of board games and playing cards to keep the family entertained during the Christmas break.

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 0

N A I L S 4 N9 A9 I0 L4 S1 4 9 9 0 4 1

s - Hot and Cold Food Cakes and Treats m Teas - Afternoon Tea

serving locally sourced food and drinks. d crafts for sale from local artisans.

Eye Love

POP UP SHOP FRIDAY 5TH DECEMBER from 5.30pm Part of the switch on and late night shopping event

at LIFE & SOLE

Grab your Eye Christmas cards and the full range of merchandise whilst stocks last

T E C T E C DOGS WELCOME

www.eye-love.info

L L

day | 7 Church Street, Eye | Tel. 07932 013985

NAILS

Drinks - Hot and Cold Food - Cakes and Treats Cream Teas - Afternoon Tea Traditional English Tearoom serving locally sourced food and drinks.

B Y

M O B I L E

N A I L

M E G

T E C H N I C I A N

I N S T A G R A M : @ N A I L S B Y M E G . U K 0 7 5 8 4 9 9 0 4 1 1 E y e , D i s s , H a r l e s t o n a n d S u r r o u n d i n g A r e a s

Open 9am to 4pm | Wednesday-Sunday 7 Church Street, Eye IP32 7AR Email: artizan.tearoom@gmail.com Tel. 07932 013985 DOGS WELCOME

MOBILE NAIL TECHNICIAN

M M

A wide variety of arts and crafts for sale from local artisans.

INSTAGRAM: @NAILSBYMEG.UK 07584 990 411 Eye,Diss,Harleston and surrounding areas

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN A DVERTORIA L UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 1

A health and fitness centre near Eye is offering corporate memberships creating the opportunity for people to work, and work out at the same venue.

Be Well Barn, in Church Road, Redlingfield, is offering business owners and workers the chance to work from beautiful surroundings and transform their health at the same time.

The stunning site set amidst the countryside offers personal trainers, fitness and wellness classes from Tai chi to yoga, gym equipment, hot tubs, saunas, a steam room and massage.

Alex Taylor-Grout, co founder of the pet food company Fettle, says: ‘‘It’s really useful for us to have team meetings here.

“Our team love the change of scenery, and having a different space helps them become more creative.’’

The Fettle owners are delighted with the facilities at Be Well Barn that can inspire them and their colleagues, rating the discreet fit pods with gym equipment and spa pods with hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms, their favourites.

Sarah Edwards, co owner with her husband Will, says: ‘‘When we started Be Well Barn we were aiming to provide a variety of health, wellbeing and fitness activities for our local community in a tranquil setting overlooking beautiful countryside. ‘‘It is now lovely to see that there are many remote workers who are also looking for a change of scene away from being in their house or offices 24/7.’’

For more details please call Be Well Barn 01379 831565, email hello@bewellbarn. co.uk or visit bewellbarn.co.uk. Come and see us and enjoy our café and bar too, open to non members 7 days a week.

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 2

John Duckmanton

Your local bricklayer 07930 430586 / 01379 788113 cnpcrig184@live.com

Everyone needs an Odd Job Man Pictures & Shelves hung Shed repairs Holes filled Posts repaired Window & door locks replaced In fact small jobs are my speciality

Tel Jim 07947 367050

Richard Walpole Roofing

Specialist Cleaning Services Carpet

Hard Floor

07984 648 296

Upholstery

01379 678 806

info@crystalclean.services www.crystalclean.services

Lowgate Garage Services

RWR

T: 07747 784742

Unit 1 Occold Hall, Occold

tel 01379 678161 mob 07483 452656

Call us and we will collect/deliver your vehicle free of charge

Open 8:00am - 5:00pm Mon-Fri Out of hours call Dave 01728 627 757 All types of work on all models Pre-MOT checks and preparation Tyres, exhausts, batteries, wheel alignment, diagnostic scanning Reasonable rates Estimates free

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 3

Eye Archives

“We are always interested in family connections, so do contact us - details above - if you have any pictures or written information which helps to tell the story of Eye.” Scouts’ presentation at the Town Hall in 1913

A

s our task of cataloguing the material in the Eye Archive draws to a close, we are now able to display some sections of it on our website www.eyearchive. org.uk.

You can explore through time by viewing the lists of items we hold about the many interesting characters who worked to serve the community of Eye – Mayors, Clergymen, Artists, Craftspeople, Shop Owners and many more.

We also have lots of details about the buildings of Eye from the Town Hall and Churches to shops, places of entertainment and people’s homes. We can even tell you who lived in your house before you, or the history of the land your new house stands on.

Once you have seen something that sparks your interest you can then come and view the items in the files at the Michael Burke Wellbeing Centre. The office is open on Fridays and

at other times by appointment, but please let us know when you want to come so that we can prepare for your visit. If you have a particular interest in Eye, past or present, and don’t see it in the current sections of the catalogue on the website, then do get in touch, we may be able to find you something to

help your research. We will be revising what we put up to view through time, so keep looking.

Our work continues as we receive material from people interested in the Archives. We spoke to Steve Smith at the Heritage Day in September and he sent us these old photos, and others for the collection.

Albert Smith, haulier, far right standing with his son Albert Smith at Eye Railway Station c. 1920s

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 4

Hubbard Gardening SERVICES

• Landscaping • Grass Cutting • Mower Servicing Contact: • Tree Surgery • Garden Maintenance M Hubbard 07901 903 837 • Hedge Cutting hubbardgardening@gmail.com • Fencing Work

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 5

Serving Eye, Harleston, Diss, Framlingham and the surrounding areas since 2004 We offer a range of services to suit your individual needs • •

• • • •

Funerals tailored to your needs and budget Full estimates given at time of arrangement Pre-Paid Funeral Plans available Direct Cremations Support Groups Memorials

We provide an efficient but friendly service through our professionally qualified staff 24 hours a day • Chestnut House,

•

Denmark House, 1 & 2a Carmel Works, Park Road, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4AS Tel: 01379 831332

•

Moore House, 8 Fore Street Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9DY Tel: 01728 723448 (Formerly Moore Bros)

12 Progress Way, Eye, Suffolk, IP23 7HU Tel: 01379 871168 •

Ley House, 11a London Road, Harleston, Norfolk, IP20 9BH Tel: 01379 851253

See our customer reviews at

www.susanwhymark.co.uk Email: susan@susanwhymark.co.uk

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 6

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 7

Dove River Church LIGHT AND HOPE BY ADRIAN DAVIES

I

t’s amazing how little changes make a big difference. We move the clocks back one hour in October and it changes the whole feel of each day. It can even affect how we view the months ahead.

The sudden change to shorter days and longer nights can impact us in a negative way, making everything that little bit harder to do because we don’t feel as happy and positive when surrounded by darkness.

We long to get back to those summer evenings of sunshine.

It’s like we don’t feel as hopeful as we were before that hour change, but you can’t stop the seasons changing!

It seems that light and hope are connected in some strange way that causes us to feel more hopeful when it is lighter. If that is the case, maybe we can find something that will bring these two things together in our lives, that doesn’t depend on how long the sun shines.

The Bible is a book that tells us who God is and what He is like.

It’s like God’s autobiography, a way for us to get to know Him and how He wants to be part of our lives. In those pages we find a link between light and hope which might explain a bit of why we feel like we do at this time of year.

In the book of John chapter 8 verse 12 it says that Jesus is the light of the world and if we follow Him, we will not walk in darkness but have the light of life. Then in 1 Peter chapter 1 verse 3 it says

that through Jesus being alive today, we have a living hope as we follow Him. What is the link? Jesus.

Jesus is light of the world and a living hope. This truth of living in the light of Jesus, is there to give us a different focus and outlook when life is a bit darker.

As we look out over the world today, we see so much darkness; wars, crime, floods and so many countries struggling financially, to mention just a little of what is happening.

This type of darkness impacts our hope levels too, but in the middle of all this, the truth that

Jesus is light and hope stands firm, a truth that has existed for so long, helping people as they build that truth into the foundation of their lives.

As we shift our focus to the celebration of Jesus’ birth maybe it’s time to allow the light and hope that He brings to be more than a nice thought or a reason to party, but a truth that becomes part of how we live our lives today. Who knows, maybe just as one little change to the clocks affects us, how much more will a change in how we see Jesus, bring a new level of light and hope to who we are and how we live.

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 8

• Door to door dial-a-ride service • Weekly members outings throughout the year • Group hires for not-forprofit organisations BORDERHOPPA OUTINGS FOR DECEMBER 2025 Mon 1st Cherry Lane Garden Centre, Pulham - £8 Thurs 4th Lunch at Wortham Tea Rooms - £8 Mon 8th Thetford Town / Garden centre - £15 Thurs 11th Lunch at The White Horse, Stoke Ash - £8 Mon 15th Highway Garden and Leisure - £15 Mon 22nd Borderhoppa Christmas Lunch at The Jolly Farers – Price TBC Borderhoppa Outings for January 2026 Mon 5th Cherry Lane Garden Centre, Pulham Market – Dial-a-Ride Thurs 8th Bury St. Edmunds Town - £18 Mon 12th Highway Garden & Leisure – £15 Thurs 15th The Four Horseshoes, Thornham – Dial-a-Ride Mon 19th Waitrose Café & Wymondham Garden Centre - £15 Thurs 22nd Notcutts Garden Centre, Norwich - £15 Mon 26th Stoke Ash White Horse – Dial-a-Ride To book or for more information please call 01379 854800 or visit our website www.borderhoppa.org

Dance with Jane Fridays 2-3pm Eye Town Hall £5 If you don’t use it, you lose it!

To avoid aches and pains as we grow older, we need to keep it all moving apparently. If you enjoy music, friendship and a bit of a boogie at your own pace, then Dance With Jane could be for you. Dancing to a huge variety of music, we work on balance, strength and memory. I have learnt over many years of teaching dance, since retiring from a professional career of treading the boards, that retired adults don’t like commitment! With this in mind, my class is ‘drop in if you can!’ I started the class to make sure I, myself, had a good hour of exercise every week, with no excuse, and I do feel better and stronger for it.

We all work at our own pace at Dance with Jane, enabling the session to be mixed ability, with a chair each, incase we need to sit down! I have seen marvellous progress amongst my pupils over the last two years and this makes my fundraising class very rewarding.

All profits go to LILAC Ladies (Ladies in League Against Cancer)

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 3 9

To advertise or volunteer with deliveries, please email the editor at editoreyemag@gmail.com

Tastefully refurbished 2 bedroom cottage in Eye town centre Sleeps 4. Perfect for visiting family. Parking, & garden space.

Available for short lets.

Call Mark on 07585 301160

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 0

Eye Opportunity Group

T

he Opportunity Group is a support group for families with children who have additional needs.

If your child is having difficulties, our staff have many years of experience and will be able to help: we run play activities for the children and offer multi-faceted support to parents and carers. We have been running successfully now for 42 years.

If you would like to know more about what we can offer, please ring: 01379 870975.…or have a look at our new website: www.eyeopportunity.org Thank you to all who have made donations to our group or supported our events – as a local charity we value your support.

We were delighted to receive £1,493.82 from Eye Primary School, who held a Mini-Marathon to raise this amazing amount. Well done everybody!

The money has gone towards some lovely new swings, the repair of our raised bed and Wendy House, a new bubble machine, as well as a visit from wellbeing mini-donkeys. Thank you also to

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 1

volunteer Paul Hume who kindly carried out the carpentry repairs in our outdoor play area.

We are also grateful for generous ‘local’ donations from Janet and Alf Chambers, CafeEye, Cocoa Mama, English and Continental Antiques, Peter Barter, Diss & District Rotary Club, Justine Love, Chloe Farfull, Wendy Aitken Photography, Lloyd Turner, The Fox & Goose and The Woolpack.

If you shop online, please remember to use our fundraising website easyfundraising.org.uk/eog Shop with any of over 3,300 well-known retailers via the easyfundraising website and a percentage of what you spend is passed on to the Opportunity Group at no additional cost to you. Retailers include Amazon, M&S, Vodafone, eBay, Tesco, Viking and many more.

We currently have spaces on our committee, if you would like to join us. For more information, please phone 01379 870975.

26 CASTLETON WAY, EYE, SUFFOLK IP23 7BH. TEL: 01379 870975 email: eyeopportunitygroup @btconnect.com www.eyeopportunity.org

“We run play activities for the children and offer multi-faceted support to parents and carers, we have been running successfully for 42 years.”

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 2

With it coming up to Christmas, I want to do more shopping online, but there’s been things in the news about delivery problems. I'm worried about not receiving things on time or packages being lost. What should I do if my parcel goes missing?

When you’re online shopping, it’s not always clear whom to contact if things go wrong.

As a customer your contract is with the seller that you bought the item from. It’s the seller’s responsibility to make sure the item is delivered to you. They should chase the courier to find out what happened to your order if there’s a problem.

If your parcel hasn’t arrived: • Check the delivery address you gave the seller, to make sure it’s correct.

• Then contact the seller and ask where your order is.

• If the seller claims they've delivered it or doesn't know where it is, you can ask for a redelivery. You might be able to get a refund in some circumstances where the delivery time was essential, and you let the seller know ahead of time.

Citizens Advice Mid Suffolk can provide in depth advice on this issue and much more, including debt, finances, employment, benefits and family/ relationships.

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you can ask the seller to deliver the item to you again if the item wasn’t delivered either by an agreed date, or within a reasonable time - usually within 30 days. If the new delivery fails to come within a reasonable time, you can ask the seller for a refund.

You can contact them by phone on 01449 676060, visit in person at Milton House, 5 Milton Road South, Stowmarket IP14 1EZ or use the contact form at midsuffolkcab.org.uk/ contact-us

• And they left your package with a neighbour or in a certain place because you told them to, it’s not the seller or Royal Mail’s responsibility if it gets lost.

Opening hours are Monday-Thursday 9.30am – 3.30pm and Friday 9.30am – 12.30pm.

Another problem people face is when parcels get left in different places, for example outside or with a neighbour.

If your item was delivered by Royal Mail:

• If they leave it somewhere you hadn’t instructed, it’s the seller’s responsibility if it gets lost. You should contact the seller to ask for a redelivery or a refund.

If the item was delivered by a courier: • Check your terms and conditions or account details - they might include other places for delivery, like your porch or a neighbour’s house. If you agreed to them, it’s not the seller’s or courier’s responsibility if your order has gone missing. However, if you did not agree to this, then it’s the seller’s responsibility if your order goes missing.

If you ordered something from a private seller or you’re still having trouble after trying the tips above, you can find out more via the Citizens Advice website at https://www. citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/

EYE TO EYE DIRECTORY An updated version of the Eye-to-Eye Directory is now available, and can be obtained by emailing mail@eye-to-eye.co.uk It contains details of local clubs, societies, charities and services available in our community

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 3

Eye & District Twinning Association of each other’s language, and there are various apps which can help with translations.

Do you have children learning French or German at school?

Hosting a French or German family could open new opportunities for both you and your children and help them with their studies.

H

ello, have you just moved to Eye and are looking to make new friends? Do you have an interest in France or Germany and would like the opportunity to travel there and explore?

The Eye & District Twinning Association is looking for volunteers to act as hosts for our visitors from Pouzauges and Meitingen. The visit will take place from Thursday 14 May Sunday 17 May 2026.

We are always looking for new members to join in the fun and activities. Several of our current members took part in the first visit 37 years ago and have developed strong friendships over the years with their French families, which is an indication to how much fun twinning can be. You do not have to be fluent in French or German to take part. It is amazing how hosts and guests can communicate with only a rudimentary knowledge

We are currently working on an exciting programme of events and for those who are new to twinning and would like to know what their commitment as a host would entail, then the programme is likely to be as follows: • Thursday 14 May – welcome reception at 17.00 followed by an evening meal and overnight stay with host family • Friday 15 May – a programme of visits during the day at one of two destinations. The evening meal and overnight stay with host family • Saturday 16 May – In the morning, there will be various fun activities planned in Eye. Lunch and afternoon to be spent with host families.

• The Saturday evening meal will start at 18.00 in the Town Hall to which hosts are invited. After the meal, a night of dancing and having fun until Midnight • Our Twinning guests will depart on Sunday 17 May. If you would like to get involved with our celebrations by hosting visitors from Pouzauges and

Meitingen, or would like to find out more about the visit, then please contact us. If you are new to twinning, it would be very useful to know how many visitors you are willing to host - would you prefer to host a couple only or a whole family? Please fill in a hosting form and send back to Nancy. The form is available on the Eye and District Twinning Asscociation facebook page.

Email us or ping us on whatsapp and we can send it over.

In return for hosting, you will get the opportunity to visit either Pouzauges in France or Meitingen in Germany and meet your new friends in their hometown.

For any questions please contact: Andy Farrow, Secretary, Eye & District Twinning Association Tel: 01379 870103 - WhatsApp: 07973 493471 Email: eye. twinningassoc@gmail.com .

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 4

Makeover Days A Day of Pampering & Style What you get: A new hairstyle Make-up lesson Beautiful gel nails Expert fashion styling Delicious lunch Relaxed photoshoot 10% discount on the day

dream on logos

£150 Before

After

Book online: www.dream-on.co.uk/makeover-days

Gift Vouchers AVAILABLE ONLINE OR IN-STORE

Dream On, 13 Castle Street, Eye, IP23 7AN | 01379 678483

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 5

EMB RACING M ENT AL W E L L - B EIN G

Finding light in the darkest days

by Anne Beckett-Allen, Director of Rosedale Funeral Home and Mental health First Aid Instructor

C

hristmas is often described as the “most wonderful time of the year”, but for many, it can be one of the hardest. If you’re grieving, lonely, or simply running on empty, the festive season can highlight what’s missing rather than what’s there.

at home at 10am on Christmas morning. I’ll be doing that myself. It’s a small, simple act that creates a shared moment of remembrance across our communities. It’s a way to pause and feel connected - to remember those no longer with us and to be thankful for those who still are.

Every advert and song tells us to be joyful and sociable, but for some, those bright lights can feel like a spotlight on pain. I know people who quietly dread December and breathe a sigh of relief when it’s over - and that’s perfectly okay. It doesn’t make you a Scrooge; it just means you’re human.

Then comes January, when the decorations come down and the days feel long and grey.

For many, that’s when the low mood really hits. If that sounds familiar, try building in small, manageable habits — a short walk outside, turning out a drawer or cupboard, a call to a friend, rewatch a favourite feel good film, or a few minutes of quiet with a cup of tea in your favourite mug. Little things really do help.

Grief has a way of creeping up at Christmas. It might be the first one without your special person or the tenth, but those little moments can still catch you off guard — an empty chair, a missing name on a card, or a song that suddenly brings tears. There’s no right or wrong way to face it. Some people find comfort in keeping traditions the same, others change things to reflect life as it is now. Do what feels right for you, and don’t feel you have to join in with everything.

At Rosedale, we understand that Christmas can be complicated.

That’s why we host Christmas

Services of Remembrance - a space for anyone who has experienced loss to come together, take a breath and remember. The candlelight, the music, the shared memories - it’s not solemn, but it is gentle, and full of love.

Standing alongside others who understand can bring comfort in a way that words can’t.

If you can’t attend in person, we invite you to light a candle

And don’t buy into the “new year, new you” pressure. Just getting through the day is enough.

Healing and hope don’t arrive with fireworks at midnight — they come gradually, like the first snowdrops pushing through the cold ground.

So if Christmas feels difficult this year, take comfort where you can. Light a candle, talk about the person you’re missing, and remember you’re not alone.

There’s a whole community quietly holding the same light.

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 6

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 7

6th & 7th December - 10am – 4pm WINGFIELD BARNS CHRISTMAS MARKET Over 22 exciting stalls, the local artisans and vendors will be showcasing everything from handmade ornaments and festive décor to cozy knitwear and unique gifts that you won’t find anywhere else. Pizza, coffee, mulled wine and mince pies available.

Saturday 13th December 7.30pm CHRISTMAS QUIZ Our popular quiz night returns, so grab a team of 4/6 and book your table via the email or phone number below. Bar open. Tickets £5pp inc nibbles on the table.

Sunday 14th – Saturday 20th December 10-3pm ART EXHIBITION 'ARRAY’ Showcasing a group of artist (paintings and sculpture) Private View 13th December 3pm - 8pm.

Artists: Phil Robbins, Emma Withers, Gus Farnes, Will Barras, Maxwell Paternoster, Shema Ladva, Adam Bartlett and Lewis Campbell.

Thursday 18th Decemeber 7.30pm CLASSIC CINEMA IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE "Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings." Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) is now considered one of the greatest films ever made — and a timeless Christmas classic that reminds us of hope, kindness and the beauty of community.

What’s on this December and January at Wingfield Barns Tickets £5 wegottickets.com/ event/681482 or call 01379 384505.

Saturday 20th December 7.30pm CHRISTMAS CAROL Step into the magic of Christmas as Mat Jones brings Charles Dickens’ beloved seasonal classic to life in a breathtaking one-man performance. With nothing but his voice and physicality to weave the story, Mat seamlessly transforms into every character, from the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge to the haunting Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. Tickets £21 - book via www.ticketsource. co.uk/vintage-verse/t-jzamkqv Tuesday 20th January 10-12pm RURAL COFFEE CARAVAN ‘“Making a difference to rural communities throughout Suffolk.” Join us at our mobile pop-up Info Café — a cheery and welcoming space where you can relax, enjoy coffee and cake, and connect with others in your community. Donations appreciated Thursday 22nd January 7.30pm CLASSIC CINEMA – BRONCO BULLFROG “Real people. Real lives. Real

East End.” Barney Platts-Mills’ Bronco Bullfrog (1969) is a landmark of British cinema — a raw and honest portrait of working-class youth in London’s East End. Following Del, a young apprentice, and his girlfriend Irene, the film captures their hopes, frustrations and quiet rebellion against the world around them. Tickets £5 wegottickets.com/event/682113 or call 01379 384505.

Saturday 31st January 7.30pm AN EVENING OF (VERY) OLD RADIO Join us for an evening of laughter and fascinating stories as British Comedy Awardwinning writer and comedian Paul Kerensa (Miranda, Not Going Out). Discover how the BBC began — from its quirky origins to the broadcasting legends it created — in a show that informs, educates, and entertains in true BBC style.

Tickets from £12.50 – book via www.wegottickets.com/ event/680530 Please go to our website www. wingfieldbarns.com and follow the links.

For more information contact office.manager@ wingfieldbarns.co.uk 01379 384505

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 8

Regular events

MONDAY

1st Eye Cub Scouts Every Monday during term-time from 6.45-8.15pm for boys and girls aged 8-10½ years old at Scout Headquarters on Wellington Road.

Juliet Grimes juliet@eyescouts.org.uk Ladies Fitness Football 6-7pm at Eye Community Centre. No need to know anything about football, just the ability to kick a ball and have fun. Any questions contact Kev Crispin on 07857662528 Multiple Sclerosis Society Coffee Mornings Every second Monday in the month at the Michael Burke Centre 10.30am-1pm, £1. Just drop in. Share experiences and learn more about MS. Contact Sue.Childs@groups.mssociety.org.uk tel 07518 288378 Strength Training At Eye Community Centre. 9.30am. Over 60s Strength Training. Contact Faye on 07885 659360.

TUESDAY

1st Eye Scouts Every Tuesday during term-time from 6-7.30pm and 7.30-9.15pm for boys and girls aged 10½-14 years at Scout Headquarters on Wellington Road.

Juliet Grimes juliet@eyescouts.org.uk

1st Eye Squirrel Scouts Every Tuesday during term-time from 4.455.30pm for boys and girls aged 4-6 years at Scout Headquarters on Wellington Road.

Juliet Grimes juliet@eyescouts.org.uk Carers Café at Hartismere Place Starting on the 7 January 2025. First Tuesday of the month from 11am-12.30pm. Free monthly support group to meet other carers in a relaxed and friendly environment, whilst enjoying complimentary refreshments including soup and a roll. For more information or to book a place please call Angela at the home on 01379 873950 Dove Social Club Over 18s Tuesdays in term-time only come in for a chat and relaxing afternoon in the Dove Hall, Dove Lane from 2-4pm. Jonathan and Jenny Pooley 01379 870173 / 07816 090857 Elderflower Club Last Tuesday of the month at Eye Community Centre 2-4pm. Time for chatting, laughter, tea and cake. All welcome - friends and helpers. Local lifts available. Tricia Brown 01379 871959 Eye Bridge Club Weekly duplicate sessions on Tuesdays in Eye Town Hall. Please be seated by 12:45 for 1pm start.

Mike Barr 01379 870853

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 4 9

Eye Garden Club Every second Tuesday in the month at 2pm. The venues vary, but they are usually at the homes of our members. Tricia Brown, 01379 871959..

Little Doves Toddler Group Baby and toddler group for parents/grandparents in term time 9.15-11.15am in Dove Hall Sing for Wellbeing 1st Tuesday of the month, 7.30-9pm The Hexagon.

01379 678483, clare@theblossomcharity.co.uk Teresa Marsh Dance Classes For beginners at the Community Centre 8-9pm Well-Being Walks (Onelife Suffolk) First Tuesday each month 1½ hr easy pace walk.

Meet 10.30am Pennings Nature Reserve, IP23 7NH. Book online: onelifesuffolk.co.uk search well-being walks. Maryanne Henderson.

Email: outdoorseye@gmail.com

WEDNESDAY

1970s Music Club Wednesday evenings at Eye Community Centre from 7.30pm-11pm. October 1st & 15th, November 5th & 19th, December 3rd & 17th.

1st Eye Beaver Scouts Wednesday during term-time from 5.30-7pm

for boys and girls aged 6-8 years old at Scout Headquarters on Wellington Road. Contact Juliet Grimes 01379 668088 or juliet@eyescouts.org.uk 1st Eye Brownies Wednesday during term time from 6.15-7.30pm at The Stoke Ash Centre. Helen Soper helenj.soper@talktalk.net 1st Eye Guides Wednesday during term time 7.15-8.45pm at The Stoke Ash Centre. Louise Clifford eyeguidessuffolk@ gmail.com 1st Eye Rangers Wednesday during term time 7.15-8.45pm at The Stoke Ash Centre. Louise Clifford eyeguidessuffolk@ gmail.com 2nd Eye Rainbows Wednesday during term time from 5:30-6:30pm at The Stoke Ash Centre. Helen Soper helenj.soper@talktalk.net Art Group at The Bank Every Wednesday 10am-1pm. Weekly drop-in group. Bring your own materials and meet likeminded creatives!

Barclays Bank Here to help at Eye Library 10am-4pm (no cash or print facility)

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 5 0

Regular events cont.

Kettlebell Training by R Fitness Wednesday 9am at The Pennings. Contact Richard Balaam 07970 328052.

THURSDAY

Eye Arts Guild Every Thursday at Eye Bowls Club 10am-12.30pm for practice and tutored sessions with outdoor sessions in summer. Contact Harriet Bowes hb.challinor@gmail.com Eye Women’s Institute 2nd Thursday of month at 2pm, Eye Community Centre. Lynn Clark (Secretary) 07736 407195

Box Fit by R Fitness Wednesday 6.40pm (term time) at Dove Hall.

Contact Richard Balaam 07970 328052.

Busy Bees Knit & Natter Weekly on Wednesdays, alternating between The Bank Arts Centre 1.15pm-3.15pm and The Michael Burke Wellness Centre 10am-1pm. Friendly drop-in group. All abilities welcome. £2 per person. 07931 538548 busybeesknitandnatter@gmail.com Chair Stretch and Balance Wednesdays at 12pm. 1st Eye Scout Hut. £12.

Contact Michaela info@michaelawindsor.com Dance with Jane Wednesdays from January 2026. Simple stretch and dance for all ages and abilities 2-3pm in Town Hall Eye. £5 drop in. Please use back door.

Call 07714006470 for info or just turn up!

Eye Country Market Every Wednesday in Eye Town Hall (excluding January), usual hours 10-11.30am. Everyone welcome. Sally Sparrow 01379 873315 Eye Karate and Fitness Club All ages and abilities welcome. Juniors 6-7pm, adults 7-8pm Eye Saints Community Boules Club Come and join us on Wednesday and Sunday between 10am and 12noon on the playing fields at Eye Community Centre Contact. Ian 07528 907114 or Eira eirajane@btinternet.com 07974 420206 Folk Night at The Bank Monthly 2nd Wednesday 7.15-10pm. Bring your own instruments and take part, or enjoy listening. £3 contribution requested.

Friendship Group Every Thursday 10am-12pm. Michael Burke Centre.

Contact Joan Gilbey 07855191741 Mat Pilates Thursdays 6pm & 7pm at 1st Eye Scout Hut. £12.

Contact Michaela on info@michaelawindsor.com Pickleball Ever wondered what Pickleball is all about?

Why not give it a try on Thursdays 5.15-7.15pm, Hartismere School Dance studio. All ages welcome.

First session is free. Contact John or Steph on 07904910284 / jsdakin@sky.com

FRIDAY

Cinema at Eye 4th Friday of each month except December.

7.30pm at Eye Community Centre.

Kit Brinkley 07947 414968 Citizen’s Advice Mid Suffolk Face to Face Advice Sessions Drop-into Eye Library Free every Friday morning 9.15am-12.30pm.

01449 676060 or advice@midsuffolkcab.org.uk Dance with Jane After Christmas moving to Wednesday. Simple stretch and dance for all ages and abilities 2-3pm in Town Hall Eye. £5 drop in. Please use back door.

Call 07714006470 for info or just turn up!

Explorer Scout Unit Every Friday during term time from 7.30-9.30pm for boys and girls aged 14-18 years old at Scout Headquarters on Wellington Road.

Emma Tamsett emma@eyescouts.org.uk

EYE MAGAZIN E | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 5 1

Open Church Dove River Church. You are welcome to pop in 9:30-11:30 on Fridays, in term time for tea/coffee and a chat. Toys are available for little ones.

SUNDAY

Ballroom and Latin Dance Eye Community Centre 7.30-10pm once a fortnight.

Theresa 01379 308516 or mobile 07709565875 Eye Archives You are welcome to come to see the archives at the Michael Burke Wellbeing Centre on a Friday, 10am-12pm. Contact Anne Willoughby 01379 870298 for details.

Eye Bach Choir Rehearsals every Fridays during term time 7.309.30pm. Eye Town Hall. New members welcome.

Enquiries: membership@eyebachchoir.co.uk Eye Cricket Club Seniors Seniors nets Fridays from 6:15pm until dark starting on Friday, May 3 and subsequent Fridays. New members welcome to come along.

Contact Ross Stannard 07590994001 Eye Karate and Fitness Club All ages and abilities welcome. Juniors 6.307.30pm. Adults 7.30-8.30pm Hartismere Hospital League of Friends Coffee and Chat 2nd Friday in the month, 10am-12noon and 1-3pm.

Coffee, Craft and Chat Last Friday of the month, from 1.30pm-3.30pm.

The Michael Burke Well-being Centre. Beverley Goddard 01379 388682

Bereavement & Support group 2nd Sunday of the month from 2-4pm at The Hexagon. Presented by Susan Whymark Funeral Services. 01379 871168.

Bootcamp by R Fitness Sunday 9am at Eye Scout Hut. Contact Richard Balaam 07970 328052.

Eye Saints Community Boules Club Come and join us on Wednesday and Sunday between 10am-12noon on the playing fields at Eye Community Centre. Contact Ian 07528 907114 or Eira 07974 420206 Eye Town Moors Woodland Society Volunteer Day 3rd Sundays at Eye Town Moors and Woodlands 10am-12noon. Meet by car park.

Chris Willoughby 01379 870298.

Ss Peter & Paul Church Sung Mass is held every Sunday at 10.45am at Church Street, Eye. Please check the website: www.eyeparishchurch.org for additional services.

Waveney Wanderers First Sunday of each month usually setting off at 10.30am from a local meeting point and cycling at a fairly gentle pace, usually includes a pub lunch.

Contact: georgie.lopham@gmail.com

TELL US ABOUT YOUR REGULAR EVENTS IN EYE Please email the editor at editoreyemag@gmail.com by 5th of the month, for content to appear in the following issue.

EYE-TO-EYE: YOUR WHAT’S ON GUIDE VIA EMAIL

If you would like to be kept informed of additional events or changes to existing ones between magazine issues, sign up to receive Eye-to-Eye an email service that offers information about events or incidents of potential interest to residents of Eye and surrounding areas. To sign up email your name and postcode to join-eye-to-eye@outlook.com

EYE M AGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 5 2

What’s on

Adult Art Classes with a difference!

Has it been a long time since you have been creative? Miss picking up a paint brush? Allow your creativity to shine through!

All levels welcome, all materials, tea, coffee & biscuits provided. £10.

Each week a different theme and style. Wednesdays 10am-12, Stoke Ash Village Hall IP23 7EW. (New classes starting Monday mornings. Please register your interest) Contact Claire 07958 675 765

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 5 3

SWITCH-ON & LATE-NIGHT SHOPPING Friday 5 December Starts at 5pm Switch-On

SHOPS OPEN

FUN FAIR

FOOD & DRINK

CAROL SINGING

CRAFT STALLS

Photo courtesy of Clive Stevens

at 6pm

EYE MAGAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 5 4

Fun activities Quick crossword no 17,328

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10

11

12 13

14

15

16

17 18

19

20 21

22

23

24

7 Former soldiers (2-10) Across 8 Latest FBI two (anag) – struggle to 1 Dramatic setting of ancient Rome? outsmart opponent (6,2,4) (12) 13 Means to resume football game 9 Shining (5) (4,4) 10 Releases (from an obligation) (7) 16 Experienced individual (3,4) 11 Nonsense (slang) – musician Peter 17 UK’s smallest bird of prey (6) (4) 19 Volley of gunfire (5) 12 Wine and soda water (8) 21 From a long way away (4) issue.

14 Answer Come to annext end (6) 15 Hungarian-born actor Bela ___, d.

1956 (6) 20 - 5(8)Broad Street, Grade ll* Listed building 18 No. Zip, perhaps 20 Unoccupied (4) 22 Bad feeling (3,4) 23 Incriminate – game of snooker (5) 24 Typical commodity – in tarot decks (anag) (5-2-5) It’s called a Urine Deflector, designed to deter the public Down from urinating on the building.

2 Feeble chap (7) 3 Sell – bird (4) 4 Commercial connections – I upset (anag) (3-3) 5 Retired professor’s title (8)

No.21

Where in Eye is this?

Fun fact

ACROSS 1 Dramatic setting of ancient Rome? (12) 9 Shining (5) 10 Releases (from an obligation) (7) 11 Nonsense (slang) – musician Peter (4) 12 Wine and soda water (8) 14 Come to an end (6) 15 Hungarian-born actor Bela ___, d.

1956 (6) 18 Zip, perhaps (8) 20 Unoccupied (4) 22 Bad feeling (3,4) 23 Incriminate – game of snooker (5) 24 Typical commodity – in tarot decks (anag) (5-2-5) DOWN 2 Feeble chap (7) 3 Sell – bird (4) 4 Commercial connections – I upset (anag) (3-3) 5 Retired professor’s title (8) 6 Often-yellow gemstone – and 1969 Hitchcock film (5) 7 Former soldiers (2-10) 8 Latest FBI two (anag) – struggle to outsmart opponent (6,2,4) 13 Means to resume football game (4,4) 16 Experienced individual (3,4) 17 UK’s smallest bird of prey (6) 19 Volley of gunfire (5) 21 From a long way away (4)

Eye Spy

Solution no 17,327

D I D D L E A C A C E A A D U A R O S A C E A L Y R I H T I L I V O I L A R O S E B E T Y O S U P E R F L UOU E N A N S E D U C E R L I M

EYE M A GAZINE | D ECEMBER 2 02 5 & JAN UARY 2026 | PA GE 5 5

We have been gently guiding families in the Eye, Diss, Harleston and surrounding areas for many years. We have over 40 years of service between us.

We are a family run funeral home offering a 24 hour personal service. We will guide and support you through the funeral arrangements.

We are independent of national groups.

• Home Visits • Funeral Finance • Direct Cremation • Affordable Choices

YEARS

63 Victoria Road, Diss IP22 4JE

A FA M I LY B U S I N E S S

11 Exchange Street, Harleston IP20 9AB

01379 640810 (24hrs) 01379 853999 (24hrs) www.rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk

• Pre-paid Funeral Plans • Personal Touches • Bereavement Support Groups and Resources

­