The Hadleigh Remembers project began in 2014, marking the centenary of the Great War with a simple but powerful aim: to uncover the stories behind the names etched on Hadleigh’s war memorial. Each name represents a life once lived here among us; a son, a brother, a neighbour; who left the quiet streets of our town for the
What started as a project to research the men of the Great War has grown to include those who fell during the Second World War. The stories discovered along the way have been both remarkable and deeply moving. They remind us that behind every name lies an
person from an ordinary Hadleigh family, caught up in extraordinary times. Some were barely more than boys; others left behind young families. All were at www.hadleighww1.com.
To bring these memories closer to home, the Royal British Legion has created a series of storyboards that will be on display in St Mary’s Church from 5 to 13 November. If you can, take a few moments during Remembrance Week to visit the church, read their stories and
Help us give a present to every patient this Christmas
we need your help to make it our best yet.
Each year, we aim to give more than 550 gifts to every in-patient
well as children, because everyone deserves to feel remembered at
In previous years, our patients have received tartan blankets, toys and pamper items. These thoughtful gifts bring comfort and
helping to deliver them too.
To make it happen, we need to
Present Drop lets you choose a ‘gift’, write a festive message, and even add an image such as a family photo or your company logo. Every donation helps us make someone’s
How to get involved this Christmas:
• Present appeal to promote your local business.
• Hold a festive bake sale and use the donations to buy a gift.
• them to friends and family.
•
•
•
• Hold a ‘Secret Santa’ tombola and sell tickets.
These are just a few ideas, but we know our amazing supporters always us spread some festive cheer this year.
17100 Community News Magazines are delivered to homes during the first week of each month in Lavenham, Kersey, Bildeston, Chelsworth, Boxford, Milden, Edwardstone, Groton, Whatfield, Monks Eleigh, Brent Eleigh, Elmsett, Hintlesham, Polstead, Newton Green, Raydon, Hitcham, Holton St Mary and other outlets in these areas.
We warmly welcome all your contributions of articles, letters, sports reports, events and photographs, just email or send to the address below and it will appear in the next issue.
Deadline for copy is the 18th of each and every month
special, please visit visufund.com/my-wish-christmasappeal-25 or scan the QR code to donate a gift. Every donation, starting from just £2, helps us give a present to
Christmas crafts at the country threads group
fabrics and an endless number of seasonal topics on which to focus your skills. In addition to traditional wreaths
padded boxes. The wide variety of colours makes them an ideal choice of gift for any family member. These and their many other decorative gifts will be displayed and on sale at the
To
mix of merchandise knowing that the money raised is supporting the Hospice’s invaluable work. There is also an opportunity to enjoy some light refreshments before or after shopping.
If you enjoy doing crafty things why not join this friendly like-minded group? You can continue with your own projects or work on a seasonal 01473 824398.
Stour Valley Arts & Music concert in East Bergholt
Sunday 23 November 2025 at 4pm
St Mary’s Church East Bergholt CO7 6TG
Programme: Debussy, Petite Suite
Charles Owen and Katya Apekisheva – Piano Four Hands
One of the most highly acclaimed piano duos performing today,
are passionate advocates for the wide range of four hands and two piano repertoire. In parallel with their extensive solo careers, they have been performing together around the
Tickets: £18 – children 17 and under free with paying adults. Season tickets are available at £54 per person. Booking: online at www.svam.org.uk or direct from svamtickets@ door.
occasionally unexpected changes occur
Generously supported by Jane Jewell Next event:
Stour Valley Arts & Music is a registered charity – Charity Number: 276640
A genuine case from Sudbury &
A client came in with a query about her own with no outside assistance.
recently occurred. The daughter replied that she had claimed a carer’s The adviser was immediately supplied with the answer. In addition to
With the daughter claiming a carer’s allowance, that independence had been removed and the premium was no longer an entitlement for the mother, but instead formed the daughter’s carer’s allowance. It wasn’t
The solution was simple. The mother could continue to claim the premium, but the daughter would have to forfeit the carer’s allowance. It
Bildeston Carpet Bowls Club
Hello everyone, it is Brenda here with a little information about the club. We have had a good start to the Winter League. So far we have won two matches, drawn one and lost one. But, we still have some tough
FESTIVE CHRISTMAS LUNCHES
Available 24th November –23rd December 2025
Celebrate the season in style with our indulgent festive lunch. The perfect way to gather with friends, family, or colleagues.
Enjoy a choice of beautifully crafted seasonal dishes from Traditional Roast Turkey with all the trimmings to elegant Fish and Vegetarian creations followed by indulgent Festive Desserts and freshly brewed coffee with mince pies.
Tables of 6+ require a £10 deposit per person.
A 12.5% discretionary service charge applies.
To book call 01473 652334
If you are interested in having a go, or if you already are a Bowls player,
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Orchard Barn News
Learning from the past how to build a greener future
After three years we have nearly completed the shingles on the roof of our new teaching space! If anyone has helped in the past with shingle
please let Sarah know. We are always looking for new volunteers. The following activities are coming up if you would like to try something new:
• On alternate Thursday mornings there will be the opportunity to learn how to transform old tools by sharpening and resetting traditional carpenters’ saws.
• In December we will be creating a new biodiversity habitat on our site to help nature recover.
• In January there will be free training in the wonderful crafts of hedge-laying and pole lathe use - both using traditional skills and hand tools.
All our activities provide a great form of exercise, and you will make new
so we will be enjoying our tea and lunch breaks inside. Bring your own refreshments/drinking water and remember to dress appropriately!
www.orchardbarn.org.uk, call Sarah on 07766 054042 or email her sarah.orchardbarn@gmail.com
BRENT ELEIGH, Nr. LAVENHAM, SUDBURY, SUFFOLK
Delightful Dual Registered Nursing and Residential Home offering care to 34 residents
All rooms are well appointed with en-suite facilities Nurse Call System: Passenger Lifts: Various Public Rooms: High standard of 24 hour personal care.
Enquiries to: Matron: Mrs Judy Carne RGN, RMA Proprietor: Mrs. E. P. Knight RGN, RM Telephone 01787 247340 / 247495 www.laxfieldhouse.co.uk
DELIVERER REQUIRED
To deliver ‘The Village Edition’ in Lavenham We deliver the magazines to your home and ask you to deliver them within 2-3 days.
100% delivery reliability is expected. For further details ring or email matt@keithavis.co.uk
Learning from the past how to build a greener future
Friends Of Lavenham Library
BUMPER CHRISTMAS RAFFLE!
Win
treats! plus an extra surprise for little ones!
Thursday 4th December.
So don’t delay and buy yours today!
Other activities to enjoy at the library: What is Indoor Kurling? It is a team sport
which have bearings on the bottom, towards a circular target with the goal of getting the stones closest to the center. It is designed to be accessible to people of all ages and abilities and promotes concentration, balance, and coordination
– 4 pm for this fun indoor adult activity that helps to improve strength and mobility with refreshments and chat included!
Baby Bounce/Tot Rock: on Thursday afternoons between 2pm - 3pm
those new to our session, we have approx. 30 minutes of songs where you and your little one can join in with bells, shakers, scarves and mirrors followed by half an hour of playful activities for little ones and a well-earned cuppa & chat for adults. There is no need to
“Exciting News” We have Rebranded, same place same faces
Now 50% OFF our rejuvenating facial – Get your autumn glow
Jane Pearson, owner of has been encouraged to to rebrand after having had her health food shop name for over 13 years! The new name is taken from the success of her inquality ranges of essential oils, sustainable ethical vitamins, food
The shop order in service remains the same so anything you may need from food types to personal care that's not on the shelves can be ordered in for your convenience. The friendly professional team are still here to support you and can help with wellness solutions for your health, mind, face and body,
Nature’s Temple Beauty was launched after adapting the shop layout in 2020 to provide beauty, holistic and complimentary treatments.
nearly 30 years ago, but some of you will only have seen her happily serving in the shop! She has always attended trade shows keeping skills up to date, and most recently
removal and skin rejuvenation including vascular lesions and acne scar treatment.
Having previously owned and worked in a busy and very popular salon
to welcome clients.
Jane feels very privileged to be working alongside a mature experienced team of self employed therapists who allow the treatment range to be very extensive.
Bamboo massage and sculpting facials amongst the list. To celebrate the rebrand, Nature’s Temple are giving away a - pop in to claim your freebie!
Salon and shop opening hours:
EXPERTSINLAWSINCE1764 N C
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21st – 23rd November 2025
There’s something truly special about mornings, the scent of mulled wine in the air, and feeling the county itself is beginning to sparkle. This year, the festive season begins in
4 pairs of tickets to give away to lucky readers!
Hintlesham Hall’s historic house and picturesque gardens, the fair shopping, and magical memories. Over 150 festive stallholders from from handcrafted gifts, home décor, and festive wreaths to locally
while supporting local makers and small businesses. This event is truly
The event is designed to delight all the senses. The gardens will be transformed with twinkling lights, charming festive stalls at every turn. Inside the beautifully decorated,
gifts galore. Whilst there are many more seasonal stalls throughout
chocolate, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and hearty seasonal food, ideal for warming up after a stroll through the aisles.
Entertainment runs throughout the weekend, adding an extra layer of festive sparkle. Live performances from local choirs and acoustic
LED performers and Evie’s owls will also be in attendance. Of course,
for photo opportunities with guests throughout the event.
Organisers promise a premium shopping experience that captures the essence of the season. “We wanted to create something that feels truly magical,” says Darren Perry, owner of Prestige County Events. “Hintlesham Hall is one of
we love bringing together so many talented stall holders each year for this amazing event”.
Whether you’re browsing for gifts, indulging in festive treats, or simply
So wrap up warm, gather your loved ones, and step into a world of Hintlesham Hall is ready to welcome you for a weekend of the ultimate
For your chance to win a pair of free tickets, email tickets@
Dark deeds at the Queasy Pines Sanatorium. Holmes & Watson risk more than their health to investigate!
Holmes has booked Watson a two week stay at a health spa, high in the Sproughton
Though Watson insists he doesn’t require steam baths and carrot soup, Holmes persuades him to “take the well rested and refreshed. But something is amiss at Queasy Pines Sanatorium. Having no contact with the outside world except phone, post, telegram and carrier pigeon, Watson must wait for Holmes’ visit to tell him of the mysterious disappearances at Queasy Pines and its strange one
region for many years now with their unique brand of music theatre.
Ground’s trademark sparkling wit, ingenious staging and hilarious
"One of the best things on the road in East Anglia right now, the everinventive Common Ground…pathos, humanity and dry humour. A proper treat." - Libby Purves www.commongroundtc.co.uk
Learning and Growing Together
Electricitythe children made a series circuit which through, for example a torch. They also made a parallel circuit which provides more than one path for the electricity tree lights.
inspiring vocabulary that they could use to create atmospheric poetry. Some super work!
Landscaping -
America class the children looked at landscapes and how to sketch them starting with the horizon, then sketching the foreground and background, and
hatching and shading.
Map Reading - In Geography, Asia class have been learning how to read grid references and starting to look at
They had a great time, although they found it challenging!
Asia class made the most of the glorious sunshine recently and took their art books outside to create landscape drawings focussing on their own perspectives. Some lovely work was achieved.
Africa class have been working hard in computing. They got to play around using the paint app helping to improve their mouse skills.
U11 Girls Football Event - A super morning of football for the U11 girls’ team last Thursday.
and we played six matches against schools from Ipswich. Goal of the day goes to Grace! Well done girls!
If you are considering Bildeston Primary for your child, please phone
The deadline for applying for your child’s reception class place for
Hadleigh Choral Society's Autumn Concert
unforgettable evening of very special music featuring masterpieces choruses guaranteed not to disappoint!
bassett horn.
Tickets are £18 or free for those in full time education, and are available
And dance the night away!
Summer Holiday, but we here at Hadleigh Productions are inviting you Trev. There will be snacks and a bar serving soft drinks. Tickets are only £5 for those aged 4-18. Under 4’s come in for free, and all children must
The second party is from 8:30pm to half past midnight. This is for all ages; there is a fully licenced bar and snacks, and music will again be provided by DJ Trev. We also have a cabaret with the wonderful Sabrina under 18s and £20 for adults.
hadleighproductions@gmail.com
Christmas at Hollow Trees Farm
available to order now.
Village! Head to our website for more details. www.hollowtrees.co.uk
Opening Hours: Sunday Closed
Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9 am to 5.30 pm Tuesday 9 am to 7.00 pm
Thursday 9 am to 8.00 pm
Saturday 8.30 am to 4.00 pm Tel
Caring for Every Tail, Wing &
By the team at JAWs, Paws & Claws Pet Care ‘BECAUSE DOGS NEED FRIENDS TOO’
beautiful neighbouring villages are more than just a place — it’s a community. A place where neighbours look out for one another, where our local green walks and connection to nature. And it’s in this
peace of mind that their animals are being treated as part of that same community, with respect, care, and professionalism.
Professional Dog Walking You Can Trust: We all know how important regular walks are — not just for a dog’s physical health, but also their mental wellbeing. But busy schedules, work demands, or unforeseen events sometimes make daily outings challenging. That’s where we step in. Our dog walking service is structured, reliable, and tailored. Whether your dog enjoys a gentle stroll, needs a lively adventure, or something in between, our walkers are experienced, insured, and passionate about making each walk enriching.
We get to know each dog’s personality, energy level, and preferences — from the shy and cautious to the bold and boisterous — ensuring every outing is a positive, safe experience.
Exclusive-Use Dog Activity Field: our and explore safely.
countryside, it’s ideal for solo sessions, group walks, or dogs that prefer a calm, private environment.
walking clients and behaviour training services, so every dog can enjoy
Our clients love it — and it’s not hard to see why. Open skies, fresh air, and a safe environment make it a dog’s dream come true.
Safe, Comfortable Pet Transport: Ourpurpose-built pet transport vehicle ensures your pet’s comfort and safety every step of the way. Whether we’re collecting dogs for their daily walks, taking pets to day, our vehicle is equipped with secure crates, ventilation, and safety systems — providing complete peace of mind.
It’s just one of the many ways we go above and beyond to make our care convenient, reliable, and professional.
Drop-In Visits — Because Every Pet Matters: We often hear, “But answer is absolutely yes.
drop-in visits for all animals — walking dogs, feeding cats, cleaning cages, refreshing water, providing company, or simply making sure everything’s as it should be.
When you’re working late, away for the day, or away for the weekend, those drop-in visits keep your pets happy, safe, and cared for — and you can relax knowing someone local and trusted is keeping an eye on things.
More Than a Service — A Local Promise: What sets us apart is not just what we do, but how and where we do it. Based right here in Hadleigh, we understand the area, the local villages nearby and the community, and our clients’ needs. We’re not a franchise or a distant business — we’re neighbours who care deeply about animals and about
them.
aid trained, DBS checked, and continually updating our skills to meet the highest standards in pet care.
Beyond daily walks and visits, we also boarding, behaviour support, and pet transport — providing everything under one trusted, local name.
Our gallery of happy clients says
to cosy home visits and sleepy post-walk naps — we’re proud to share the moments that make what we do so special. and peace of mind for their owners.
Extending the Paw to Our Community: We’re not just here to serve; we’re here to belong. You’ll often see us out walking on the Railway Walk, at the Riverside, or around Hadleigh and its local village green spaces — so please do stop us for a chat! We’re always happy to talk about training tips, pet behaviour, or local pet-friendly spots.
We’re also passionate about supporting community events and responsible pet ownership — because our local pets deserve the very best.
Thank you, Hadleigh and its local village communities, for welcoming us so warmly. Whether your pet is four-legged, feathered, scaled, or somewhere in between, we promise to treat them as one of our own — with integrity, kindness, and local pride. Get in touch:
• Visit www.jawsandpawspetcare.co.uk
•
• Because at JAWs, Paws & Claws Pet Care, every animal deserves the best — from whiskers to wagging tails.
Physiotherapy • Clinical Pilates
• Acupuncture • Sports & Swedish Massage • Paediatric Physio
Hadleigh Physiotherapy Limited
The Clinic, 111 George Street, Hadleigh, Suffolk IP7 5BP Telephone: 01473 810185 Email: enquiries@hadleighphysio.co.uk www.hadleighphysio.co.uk
Hadleigh Bowling Club moves indoors for
the winter
(though a couple of people obviously don’t read their emails …)
champions and with a playing membership continuing to run at over prefer to play in the regular friendly roll-ups several times each week well with two wins. pieces of expensive green equipment, thanks to some careful supplier plus the noticeable impact of solar panels. And of course arrange it for you:
FALL INTO AUTUMN
French’s Care Haven
Hello to our readers, I hope as always you have been keeping well.
Time moves on and life changes, that seems be the case for our animal rescue, as we need to look for a new home and move again for the third time! The current owners of the
us so far, we thank them for six happy years and wish them well in the future.
We have lots of exciting plans
will continue caring for all of the horses and donkeys that have come to us over the years and we look to develop and expand our charity to be more involved as a community environment, by continuing to support local people when times are challenging for them and giving a purpose to those in need, working alongside of our lovely rescued animals is a wonderful healing method.
Willowtree Sanctuary must have had a crystal ball, as earlier this year they came to visit and loved the work we do, along with the excellent care we give our animals.
some money to buy our own land. This money is held in trust and is only to buy land. It cannot be used for anything else, as they want to secure our future and stop the overwhelming stress and upheaval of having to keep relocating from rented land.
up to approximately a 10 mile radius around Hadleigh / Polstead. We love the area and want to keep all our helpers/volunteers and the people we support with us, as well as our local supporters who come to our open days and fund
I need your help; Do you own land and can sell to us? Do you know and contact me if you have any ideas or know of someone to approach, or if you are in a position to sell.
needed monies for the move, as it is going to be a huge challenge and will need an army of helpers, along with the cost of taking everything down, moving it all and putting it back up. If you can help with any of this please call me and if possible can you share this information and look out for our Go fund me page, when it comes up on our website and
NOVEMBER EVENTS and CLASSES
4th November 1.30pm to 2.30pm – Find Your Flow with Anne-Louise Hall - Stretch, breathe and move freely to the sound of uplifting tunes for 45 enriching minutes. £10pp
12th November 7.30pm to 8.30pm – Soundbath/immersion with Louise Carpenter - Using sound in a healing, therapeutic and creative way using hand-made high frequency instruments. £20pp
17th November 8.15pm - Women’s Circle with Anna Salisbury – a gentle, welcoming space where women come together to pause, breathe, and connect. £15pp
20th November 10am to 11am – Women’s Circle with Anna Salisbury – a gentle, welcoming space where women come together to pause, breathe, and connect. £15pp 22nd November 10am to 2pm - Gina’s Women’s Circle Workshop details to follow
STUDIO CLASSES
Tuesdays 9.30am to 10.30am - Dancercise with Linda McPhearson 7pm to 8pm – Yoga with Caitlin £10pp (no classes 4th November)
Wednesdays 6.15 am - Yves Studios - Conditioning @ CEN 5.30 pm – 6.30 pm – Yoga with Caitlin £10pp (no classes 5th November)
Thursdays 9 am – Yoga with Cailtin £10pp (no classes 6th November) 7pm – Running Class meet outside CEN – Yves Studios 6.30 pm – 7.30 pm – Self-protection class with Liam Bye £25pp 7.30 pm – 8.30 pm – Meditative class with Liam Bye £25pp
Fridays 6.15 am - Yves Studios - Conditioning @ CEN
Limited places - Booking essential for all events and classes Book online @ www.cenbeauty.co.uk or call 01473 798982
All events and classes held at The Studio – CEN Beauty & Wellness Studio, 58a High Street, Hadleigh IP7 5AL
ALB-Framing
If your picture needs framing, contact me!
I’m a member of the Fine Art Trade Guild, who themselves created the standards and guidelines for art framing together with picture printing. I continually work to these requirements.
Home or office visits are available. Following discussions about your requirements, in situ you’ll see the various framing options.
At Gudgeons Prentice, our team of expert solicitors are here to support Stowmarket and the surrounding areas with a wide range of professional legal services, and have been since 1821.
RESIDENTIAL CONVEYANCING COMMERCIAL SERVICES WILLS & PROBATE MATRIMONIAL & FAMILY
Hadleigh P. J. B. Wilson BDS, LDS, RCS G. SINGH BDS (Hons) MSc & ASSOCIATES
• EVENING & SATURDAY MORNING APPOINTMENTS
Children’s Appointments Available
The Hadleigh Historian: Fifteen years and still going strong.
The Hadleigh Historian has now completed its 15th year. Despite editor and chief contributor has never missed the printer’s deadline for the magazine’s 90 issues.
“When my mobility stopped me volunteering after 16 years as archivist at Hadleigh Archive, I needed something I could do at home. As I had folders and boxes full of research about
idea of a two-monthly magazine.
The Hadleigh Historian does not regurgitate well-worn stories: it brings to light new research and encourages other historians to people to share their memories of the town.”
The magazine has put Sue in contact with all sorts of people for all sorts of reasons. She receives telephone calls and letters, for example, from someone enquiring about the history of their house or wanting an argument settled about when a particular event occurred. When a 10th anniversary edition was planned for 2020, Sue invited nine friends interesting in local history to join her in showing the wide variety of subjects that the history of the town can encompass.
times as Sue has been able to identify Thorpe as Hadleigh Hamlet, a piece of land gifted to Hadleigh in a 10th century by a queen. Also
the magazine have also revealed a man who was buried twice, another who died twice and a woman who was born in Hadleigh but died in a
Sue has returned to giving talks. Her very successful Old Hadleigh Picture Shows being examples not only of her historical knowledge
Hadleigh Vestry Book Project, which launches Tales from the Vestry centre entitled Widdershins and Up the Towers
Hadleigh Society
A fun evening is promised when the popular Harbour Lights Trio Society on 3rd December. Their songs draw heavily upon East Anglian gems to provide a varied and entertaining programme. They play concertinas, melodeon, ‘cello, guitar, banjo and harmonica and have performed at many local concerts and festivals.
Derek Simpson started singing and playing Anglo
at The Harbour Inn, Southwold
a retired gamekeeper and well-known local character, hailing from Blaxhall area, has been referred to as a ‘living legend’, sings good story.
Brought up in the north of the county in Oulton Broad and Bungay, the late sixties. He was also in Ticklers Jam and played folk clubs and festivals all over the country.
A 8pm Wednesday, 3rd December, Hadleigh Guildroom, churchyard
Hadleigh Old School presents Fine Art in November and Theatre at Christmas
at 5 Bridge Street is transformed into an art gallery for paintings by Janie Pirie. Then, in December returning to the guise of a please secure your tickets via Ticketsource.
Drawn To Nature showcases the work of professional botanical and wildlife artist Janie Pirie. Janie is known for her meticulously detailed and vibrant works created primarily with coloured pencils. Based on Artists. Janie occasionally also works in watercolour and is known for creating striking paintings with a delicate technique and rich colour intensity. Subject matter includes the produce grown in her own
Art collectors are welcome to attend the preview at 6pm on
rsvp to hadleigholdschool@
avoid disappointment. The show weekend with public opening on
exhibition represents a return to the venue for Janie Pirie following on from her previously successful – this new show
bring the beauty of nature into your home. There will be an opportunity to meet the artist-in-residence across the weekend, as Janie Pirie creates
depend on what produce is in season – as we went to press it was gourds. Alternatively the live demonstration could be the artist undertaking a challenge such as capturing the shape of hen’s eggs. Janie has also recently completed a major composition
art gallery in person!
is a humorous festive mystery where Holmes and Watson investigate happenings at the Queasy Pines Sanatorium, featuring songs, clever staging, and a mysterious one-legged superintendent. It is suitable for ages 8 and up, with a running time of two hours: there is a licensed bar doors open 1 hour before curtain-up i.e. serving from 6.30pm for evening shows and 3pm for matinee
DRAWN
www.commongroundtc.co.uk or search by venue on Ticketsource
We warmly welcome all your contributions of articles, letters, sports reports, events and photographs email comnews@keithavis.co.uk
GETTING T O Roger Kennell – The B
family, they have been part of Roger’s life since birth.
company were instrumental in the construction of many of the dwellings on the newly emerging housing estates in the area now known as Holland-on-Sea. His father, also a builder, married the local farmer’s daughter and ten years later in 1943 Roger was raid. Although his formative years were dominated by post-war austerity, he had a happy childhood. The busy summers, with an winter months.
His school days were blighted by acute shyness. It didn’t help being left-handed in a righthanded world. Roger never realised why he had such
dip-pens designed for righthanders hands as these were handed out from a box each day. At secondary school, the drawing board and tee-square were also only designed for right-handers so Roger had to draw cross-handed. As the educational system did not recognise this natural phenomenon, no explanation
adjusted to the equipment he was given.
In keeping with the family’s long association with the construction business it was not surprising that all family members had a trade. Roger wanted to be a bricklayer and help build houses for families to live in at the seaside. An apprenticeship helped him gain both
the town of today. A new industrial estate, and then private house residents.
Dymond. It was he who ignited Roger’s interest in local history and relying on the status quo. Thus started his interest in local history and his personal documentation of Hadleigh past and present. Roger had long wished to advance his building career, but his continuing shyness was proving to be a barrier. Then in 1982 the
his delight he successfully conquered his shyness to pass on his own practical skills and enthusiasm to his newly employed young apprentices. One of his trainees actually represented Great Britain in the World Skill Olympics.
recommended him for a position as a Senior Training Advisor for
O KNOW YOU
Brick Man of Hadleigh
some smaller occupations.
In 2002, when he had just enthusiastically embarked upon the implications, it proved to be a wise choice as, happily for him and Hadleigh, he is still with us and in his early 80s. Given Roger’s interest in local history and his own extensive documentation of the town’s eventful past, it was not surprising that in 2008 he was invited to become the Hadleigh Local History Recorder
keeping a record of happenings and events in the town and submitting these to the repository for the county’s history
share his knowledge with others by giving over 1,350 presentations to clubs, groups and societies. Retirement from these public appearances freed up time for further research, recording and volunteer work at the Hadleigh Archive. Thus the observations and documentation of life in Hadleigh is there for posterity.
always held a special place in his heart. He has been an altar server for over sixty years. He was a founding member, now Trustee, of the
this iconic Grade 1 listed building not only for its architectural community space for future generations.
Roger acknowledges his family move to Hadleigh over 60 years ago was the best thing that ever happened to them. Although, through shyness, girlfriends and marriage passed him by he has many good friends. He is content with his life in Hadleigh as it feels “pleasant, right
association with bricks and brickwork has “The Brick Man of Hadleigh”. He admits it would be an appropriate epitaph - but not yet!
ALLOTMENTS AVAILABLE IN KERSEY
The Nightingale Trust run the allotment site in Kersey Village. We will soon have plots available for hire. Have you ever wanted to grow your own fresh vegetables, fruit, flowers etc? Now is your chance.
The allotments are situated behind The Bell, within beautiful and peaceful countryside. The rent is £30 for a half plot, and £40 for a full plot - cheaper than a gym membership and better for you!!
For more information, please contact Natalie Blyth 01473 827805 - 07487 816966 - nablyth1@gmail.com
ANDREW’S Quality Butchers
Hadleigh
Christmas Orders now being taken.
Come in store and receive tailor-made advice for your family’s best Christmas from one of our expert team.
For a small Christmas or a large Christmas, we can cater for all.
Christmas at Andrew’s since 1994 74 Hadleigh High Street
FATHER & SON TEAM WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE ALL INTERIOR & EXTERIOR WORK UNDERTAKEN
P PLLEEAASSE E CAALLL L F FOOR R A F FRREEE E QUUOOTTE E
CHRIS - 07717 059370
PAUL - 07880 727630
chris.harman1990@gmail.com
contact@constructionone.co.uk 01473 807 754 Victoria House, Market Place, Hadleigh
Deep Dive into Doughnut Economics
Deep HEAT is a discussion group, where people who support HEAT can explore the science and economics of climate change in more depth.
At a recent Deep HEAT session we explored the concept of Doughnut Economics. Doughnut Economics is an alternative model of economic thinking developed by British challenges the traditional obsession with endless GDP growth and instead focuses on creating an economy that meets everyone’s needs within the limits of the planet’s resources.
At the heart of Doughnut Economics is a simple but powerful visual: a doughnut-shaped diagram. The inner ring represents the social foundation; the minimum living standards everyone needs to live well. This includes access to food, water, health care, education, income, people are living in deprivation. The outer ring represents the ecological ceiling; the environmental boundaries we must not exceed if the Earth is to remain stable and habitable. These include climate change, biodiversity loss, ocean causes environmental breakdown. between the two rings. Within this zone, everyone’s essential needs are met without overshooting the planet’s ecological limits. Raworth argues that the goal of economics should shift from growth to balance: designing systems that allow people and nature to thrive together. This means measuring success through well-being, equity, and Amsterdam, have started adopting Doughnut Economics as a guiding framework for local policy, aiming to reduce environmental impact while improving quality of life.
an economy is successful not when it grows endlessly, but when it enables prosperity for all within the means of our living planet.
Get out in the fresh air, stretch your legs, and discover new paths –completely free,with no membership or pressure. Just join a walk when
Why walking works wonders:
• Boosts mood, energy and sleep
• Strengthens heart, joints and muscles
Weekly walks continue all year round, weather permitting, with varying good company, and don’t let the shorter, colder days keep you inside. Everyone is welcome!
• Produced using your own image or photo for the front of the card
• Your personalised greeting inside
• Printed with a full colour front, black inside
• 350g quality smooth white board
• Creased and folded
• Supplied with matching peel and seal envelopes
Energy-from-waste visit
We welcomed our pupils’ families and community members to our
wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together; we even had a visit
who enjoyed a cuppa and cake too. We are pleased to announce we raised £145.00 for this worthy cause. It’s been a busy start to the year with class trips and residential visits for all the children.
To support their learning and understanding of waste management
at Great Blakenham. The children were able to visit behind the scenes and saw how our waste is used to generate electricity. In their visitor centre they took part in interactive sessions, learning about waste management and sustainability.
Dunstone Optometry
Robins Class – Castles as a Home
learn about a They participated in workshops to learn about what it was like to live in a castle. The had the opportunity to visit the exhibitions, dress up as Romans and explore and the castle, even the roof!
Owls Class – Norfolk Lakes Residential
They had the opportunity to learn new skills and try activities in their purpose built indoor activity centre and enjoy time on the water raft building and kayaking.
Elmsett Primary has invested in the future of its education!
• We have made a series of improvements designed to enhance learning, strengthen safety, and celebrate its rural setting – all part of a commitment to giving pupils the very best start in life.
• investment, including:
•
• refurbishment works which have included repainting classrooms, school hall, recarpeting key areas, and repainting the outside of the school in keeping with its Victorian heritage
• investment in technology, including touch-screen laptops, new interactive whiteboards and iPads, supported by a broadband
imaginative play the creation of a new outdoor learning and social area for Years 5 and 6
improvements show our commitment to combining modern facilities about creating a safe, inspiring environment where every child can thrive.
Pupils are enjoying new opportunities for outdoor learning, faster access to digital resources, and a brighter, more welcoming learning environment.”
“This is an exciting time for Elmsett. Families can see the investment
Our Open Morning – Wednesday 12th November
We look forward to welcoming you to discover more about our school and what makes our school such a fantastic place to learn and grow. We awelcome visits throughout the year, please contact the school
elmsettschool.co.uk
Caring Through the Seasons
The Heartbeat of Hadleigh
By City on a Hill Care
If autumn had a sound, it would be the quiet hum of kettles brewing,
much like a good cup of tea, should warm the heart, steady the soul, and never be rushed.
As the days grow shorter and the scarves come out, our team leans into the season with the same warmth and dedication that has become our
see it in the small things: a carer adjusting a blanket before the morning chill sets in, a shared joke that lights up a room, or a neighbour dropping
a calling. Our carers bring professionalism wrapped in personality, and compassion sprinkled with humour. After all, kindness is easier to give
community visits that remind us all why Hadleigh is more than a place , it’s a family. We’re proud to be part of a town that values togetherness, resilience, and good company.
So as the weather cools, let’s keep the warmth going. Wave to your
care, much like autumn, is most beautiful when shared.
Speaking about caring, we have care services ranging from day sit ins, companionship, live in care and so much more, which can be tailored to
With love and light,
Because even on cloudy days, we’re built to shine.
The column may look the same but the info varies each month, so please take time to read on.
FIRE ALARMS
CCTV
Watching out for your home or business 365 days a year
Viewable on the go with mobile app
Help available 24 hours a day
Supply, install and maintain tailored alarm systems
BAFE SP203-1 accredited FREE system design and quotation
Vaccinations:- 1,624 vaccinations were given for the second clinic in October were not available when this column went to print. vaccinations/nhs-vaccinations-and-when-to-have-them
of patients with an appointment. If you are visiting the area for any other reason please avoid using these dedicated spaces. However, should you is full, you can register your car inside the waiting area and that will give
EXTINGUISHERS
Water, Foam, Powder, CO2 and new ‘All Fire’ extinguishers
BAFE SP101 accredited Training & Refresher courses available
INTRUDER ALARMS
Commercial and domestic alarm systems
NSI Gold accredited alarm installer across, Essex and Suffolk FREE System design & Quotation
email: info@abacusfas.co.uk www.abacusfas.co.uk
Blue badge holders do not have to pay but must clearly display their badge.
Jen Eastwood on 01787 211853 or jen.eastwood8@gmail.com
It’s never too late. If you still haven’t got round to registering with the Practice’s online triage system, why wait until you need to use it? You can register via one of the following websites www. hadleighhealth.co.uk/anima or www.nhs.uk/nhs-app
If you have no digital access or you encounter any problems you can still telephone the surgery; a care navigator will help you. 01473 822 961
Please note Anima is available from 6a.m. each day but as before it is not necessary to set an alarm for that time. All requests will be dealt with when the surgery opens. Patients in the know will tell you how promptly they have been contacted once their request has been submitted.
in the upstairs room of the Hadleigh Library. The next session will take
communitiestogether-ea.org
Outside Medicine Chest: This impressive machine sited in the Patients’ medicine from the Practice’s dispensary. This optional service will
bags of medication. If you would like to know more next visit.
Medicine Wastage: Statistic for medicine wastage are mind blowing. A report by the Department of Health estimates that unused medicines cost the worth of medicine returned to pharmacies, £90 million worth of unused prescriptions being stored in homes and £50 million worth of medicines
medication can vary and audits have shown that around half of all the medication returned had not even been opened. By reducing the amount
of medicines being wasted each year, we could increase the available funding for other desperately needed health services. Do you contribute to the statistics by over ordering or hoarding your medication? Please remember to check your medicines before you leave the pharmacy and return any unwanted items. This will go some way to
Doppler Machines: Happily, these new leg reading machine are in situ so patients will no longer have to travel to Ipswich Hospital for this service. The hope is that the machines will also be used preventatively so that future lower limb problems can be avoided.
nearest ‘out of hours’ duty doctor or visit www.111.nhs.uk
PPG Chair/ Art Work:- Jan Devey deveys@btinternet.com 01473 827091 or 07881 798999
and Leisure
Pool & Leisure. This is a social event for all standards of players, it’s fun and it’s a great friendly group. Play is mostly doubles and occasional singles games. We have three tables and bats and balls are supplied by the leisure centre. We have players of all ages who come along and enjoy playing table tennis. Why not give it a try, pop along and say hello and pick up a bat and play.
Are you a good listener? Do you have parenting experience or valuable life skills and a few hours a week to spare?
to support local families going through tough times. Just a little of overwhelmed or isolated.
Home-visiting volunteers are at the heart of what we do at Homefamily once a week, in their own home. This might mean being a listening ear, helping with daily routines, or simply showing up with kindness and understanding. It’s all about being a trusted, reliable presence when it’s needed most.
interests, and availability - including telephone support, group based opportunities.
and a desire to help.
We provide full, free training and ongoing support. Volunteering is network of like-minded people.
• Give back to your community
•
• Be part of something that truly matters You can change a life – including your own. Get started today out more.
Ebony’s Blog
Life at The Shelley Centre
I begin this report of the goings on announcement. There is a major problem brewing. This concerns the number of volunteers who help out at Shelley. The ponies and riders are completely reliant on
supported by the team of volunteers to care for the horses, run the riding sessions and raise funds to keep us going. As time goes by, volunteers do drop out for all sorts of reasons: some move out of the area, some have additional family commitments, others have health problems and so on. Lately, we have lost a number of volunteers, and this is putting pressure on those remaining.
Although experience of working with horses is welcome this is not necessary – many of our and you will join a team who are great fun and will give you a warm school term time with a morning and afternoon slot that volunteers perhaps come along to experience a session and meet the human and
The photo of the happy two sisters, Hannah and Arinna on our largest
Thomas, illustrates the enjoyment our riders get from their sessions. It would be heart-breaking if we couldn’t continue doing this for them due to lack of helpers.
We have recently welcomed two new ponies to the team Sausage and Tiny Tim. Sausage began life as a show cob. At 16 hands high, this six year old bay gelding will be one of our bigger horses, suitable for our adult and taller children to ride. He has settled in really well and loves attention. He is now being ridden by an able-bodied rider in sessions to get used to all the props and toys we use with our disabled riders. Tiny Tim is a grey roan, 12.2hh cob pony. He has a lovely friendly and inquisitive temperament is is learning how to become more patient when waiting in the yard! He has passed his initial assessment is is beginning to join sessions under supervision. It should not be underestimated how special our RDA horses are – they have to put up
which is why it takes time and patience to introduce new horses into the team.
To remind you, our next fundraising event is the Christmas Bingo on 22
Tickets available on https://the-shelley-centre-for-therapeutic-riding. sumupstore.com/
If you aren’t able to come to our fundraising events but would like to support us whilst you are buying things from some of your favourite
POLSTEAD FILMS THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND
“A lovely, offbeat and very British comedy” “A delight and just the right side of zany” Friday 21st November, 2025
Polstead Village Hall – Doors open 7pm
An eccentric lottery winner, who lives alone on a remote island, dreams of getting his favourite musicians back together. His fantasy turns into reality when the bandmates accept his invitation to play a private show at his home on Wallis Island.
(Apologies for having to postpone our September screening, the release date was changed, but it’s a terrific film and worth waiting for.)
Tickets - £5. Email: polsteadfilms@gmail.com to reserve or buy in Polstead Community Shop. All proceeds in aid of Polstead Village Hall Charity No. 304933
WORLD-CLASS JAZZ FORTNIGHTLY AT STOKE-BY-NAYLAND HOTEL CO6 4PZ
Doors open 7.30 pm - Music 8.00 pm - Ends 10.30 pm approx. WED 12th November 2025 8pm Price £20
JOHN ETHERIDGE'S BLUE SPIRITS TRIO
John Etheridge – Guitars, Pete Whittaker – Organ, George Double – Drums WED 26th November 2025 8pm Price £30
DEREK NASH'S SAX APPEAL
Derek Nash – Alto Sax, Matt Wates – Alto Sax, Gary Plumley – Tenor Sax Vasilis Xenopoulos – Tenor Sax, Bob McKay – Baritone Sax, Neil Angilley – Keys, Phil Scragg – Bass, Mike Bradley – Drums
To be held on the 13th November 2025 at 6.15 pm
All are welcome
Hadleigh Food Stories
HEAT has been gathering stories about food from people who grew up in and around Hadleigh during the 50s, 60s and 70s. These stories are fascinating and show just how much things have changed, for good and bad, in 2 generations.
more important than people’ tellers’ accounts remind us how changes in work, technology what we eat today.
“Everyone grew their own fruit and vegetables. You had to. It took up a lot of time and we had less leisure time. It was hard
a choice. The world as it was.”
“Before tractors, cart horses were more important than people.”
“I started growing things at an early age. It was part of our family culture.” “ We had chickens too. My grandfather grew food for the
“Growing food was a social activity, it grew communities. We swapped between families.”
They told stories of their mother’s work. to support the family. She sowed and harvested sugar beet by hand.” “Mother cooked a midday meal every day. We always had a pudding.” Looking back:
We had more time. “Today the role of women has changed. Household roles are looser, and they have less time as they are working.”
“Food was a bigger part of the household budget then (33%) now it is much less and property is more expensive. Food is a lot cheaper today.” “Growing food
“I worry about children today. We had more freedom.” “It takes a village to raise a child.”
the mind as well as the body and connects with being a hunter-gatherer.” “What is progress? We are no longer going forward. Where does happiness come from?”
Thanks to Jimmy, Dorothy, Heather, Paul and Austin for sharing their stories. If you have stories to tell about food we’d love to hear from you. Please contact hadleigh.heat@hotmail.com Thank you to Hadleigh Society for providing the photos.
Haymaking with horses (Hadleigh Archives)
Women picking sugar beet
Tales From The Vestry:
was governed from this building by Sue Andrews and Roger Kennell in Hadleigh was renovated both inside and out. Some form of publication was considered to be appropriate to record the vestry’s history, the building work undertaken and to celebrate its new
people interested in local history formed Hadleigh Vestry Book Group to tell the story of the building and its importance to the town. Since erection of the vestry towards the end of the 15th century, as well as being a place of security for church administration, the building gave its name to the group of unelected men who met there to govern Hadleigh from 1600 until 1869. The Vestry was responsible for many aspects of town life: for example, providing poor relief and managing
The story of the building and the people who met there is told in four parts: architectural heritage, church administration, civil administration and creation of the ‘new’ vestry. Tales from the Vestry
centre of the town entitled Widdershins and Up the Towers (see advertisement to the right).
Hadleigh Evening WI
This report is being sent while our President, Sheila Webb, is still in the US where she celebrated her birthday with her two daughters and their families, and had an unscheduled stay elsewhere in Texas. Our Treasurer and Bookworms and Refreshments ladies were also abroad. The remaining three of us on the committee fortunately constituted a quorum.
our WI.
- minding our very enjoyable second Thursdays in the month.
Our speaker in October was Eric Punaks who entertained us with The Library. If you would like to come as a visitor, please contact the
We
Lavenham Carpet Bowls Club
Towards the end of the year we play inhouse competitions for those members who would like to enter and get their
We usually start with a trophy which was donated by a previous President of the by the Lassies against the Lads, and usually hotly contested each year. Last year the lasses were victorious, but this year the Lads won. Well done John J, the team, was Derek initially, but when
USED VEHICLES FOR SALE
We will now have a short break in the in-house competitions, as our who is also a member are busy settling into their new home.
But we still have our usual sessions on Wednesday afternoon at 2pm and Thursday evening at 7pm, and new members are always welcome. All equipment is provided as well as tuition, if needed. If you have never played before, I would recommend the Thursday evening session is a good place to start.
Look forward to seeing you – Marilyn Beatham.
Building a community... A community workshop?
to strength, growing in membership, activity and community impact.
are planning to develop a local site and create a purpose-built community workshop. This new facility would not only secure the longother like-minded community groups to enjoy.
The proposed workshop, studio and kitchen will be ideally suited for a wide range of hands-on and creative activities including; arts and crafts, woodworking, model-making, woodturning, needlecraft and knitting, repair cafe, mindful-making, cooking lessons, adult education and more.
that such a facility can bring. It will foster community spirit, support lifelong learning and help improve the wellbeing of everyone involved.
Hadleigh Hares
On 21 September, Joel Bamsey and Sam Ashdown took
to be the biggest test of the day, but runners were rewarded with a sweeping downhill stretch along the River Orwell and under the Orwell Bridge.
Sargent, Geraldine Suckling and other runners for the scenic Dublin
reputedly one of the largest enclosed parks in a European capital city. Local parkrunners warned them about the hills, but they turned out to be no three delivered fantastic performances – and all achieved personal bests for the distance.
achieve a new personal best for this distance – congratulations!
Saxons 5, a sold-out multi-terrain race celebrating the Saxons Running carrying a slight injury, and both runners enjoyed the friendly and wellsupported event. 13 October turned out to be a busy race day for the Hadleigh Hares. injuries earlier in the year, Stuart has worked hard through cross-
a pot of the famous Tiptree jam!
completed the Givaudan Ashford runners through the town, starting it was a particularly nostalgic race — a return to her roots.
Race, an undulating route along quiet country roads. Elaine was thrilled to achieve a PB, beating her previous time from 2012, while Sam had an overall.
And don’t forget – if you’d like to join Hadleigh Hares, you can try the club for one month completely free, with access to as many sessions hadleigh-hares.co.uk or email secretary@hadleigh-hares.co.uk. And if running isn’t for you but you’re interested in coaching, we’d love to hear from you too!
Hadleigh Naturalists Society Autumn Programme 2025
Monday 3 November 7.30pm
Consider the Lillies of the Field – Adrian Knowles
Monday 1 December Visitors £3
BIC YCLE S BICYCLES WAN T ED WANTED
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Patricia 07939 792878
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