In Touch News with Elmswell December 2018

In Touch

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with Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell,

Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit Volume 2 • Issue No. 9 • DECEMBER 2018

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I hate winter! There, I’ve said it. I’ve tried to appreciate the positives but I spend every long dark evening longing for spring, which for me starts on February 11. For this reason I love Christmas; it gives us something to look forward to and brings family and friends together with time to relax. Of course it can be an expensive time and requires a huge amount of planning, but somehow it’s always worth it.

So bring it on I say! Let’s embrace this time to relax and to enjoy the company of those we may not see as regularly as we’d like. This year I’m determined to make Auntie Mary smile, even if I have to spend all day working on it.

I’m going to find the perfect non-gift for the impossible aunt who says she doesn’t want or need anything, until she doesn’t get anything of course.

I’m going to make the bread sauce nobody eats just so my brother can’t complain that it’s not the same without it! I’m going to discuss the timings with absolutely everyone so nobody comes to the table saying ‘I wish I’d known we were eating this early as I wouldn’t have had that fifth mince pie for breakfast’. I’m going to serve custard, brandy butter, ice cream and cream with the Christmas pudding so mum, my husband, my brother and my nephew have no cause to complain, and for those who always say ‘I don’t really like Christmas pudding’ I shall be serving chocolate mousse.

My approach to Christmas present shopping has changed over the years.

Where once I might have spent hours online looking for something unusual or quirky, this year I’m focused on finding more thoughtful gifts; this requires a hands-on approach so it’s local shops and markets for me this year. I’m taking the same approach with my son. We’ve been influenced by TV ads for the latest gadgets and plastic monstrosities in the past; recent mistakes include Boom Boom Balloon Game, Chippies Robot Dog, Zoomer Dino Robot Dinosaur and Hot Wheels Ultimate Garage. This year I’m determined to find things I know he will enjoy well into 2019 and I’ll be having a word with Father Christmas too.

I hope this month doesn’t cause unnecessary stress in your home. Please do support local businesses and local markets in the coming weeks and together we can look forward to a Happy New Year.

InTouch

NEWS NEW MONEY FOR OLD NEWTON Christmas Bonanza Weekend at Old Newton Village Hall Old Newton Fundraising Group and Old Newton Under Fives present a Christmas Bonanza Weekend on Friday and Saturday, December 7 and 8, a festive feast of shopping and entertainment for all at the village hall in Church Road, Old Newton.

Featuring stalls from local organisations and artisan traders selling gifts, novelties, soft toys, seasonal food and produce, handy crafts, greetings cards, cosmetics, health and skincare products, fresh flowers, stationary and jewellery to name but a few.

The hall will be open from 6-8pm on Friday evening and again on Saturday afternoon from noon-4pm with a Christmas Market theme, mulled wine, sausage rolls, mince pies, refreshments and musical entertainment.

A raffle, to be drawn on Saturday, will also run throughout the event with a £50 cash first prize. Proceeds go to the organising charities, Old Newton Under Fives and the Old Newton, Dagworth and Gipping Village Hall.

The hall is about to undergo an exciting renovation project in the coming year with the plans already approved so please come along and support this event, organised by the village for the village, and enjoy some local festive cheer while helping to raise much needed funds.

Woolpit and District Museum The museum was very pleased to take part in the poignant exhibition held in St Mary’s Church, Woolpit to mark the centenary of the Armistice. In response to the many people who have asked, yes, I am planning to organise the biographies of the 25 Woolpit casualties into booklet form and hopefully this will be ready when the museum reopens in April.

with Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, The doctor in Woolpit during the First World War was Dr Orby Russell Morgan

Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit

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Wood. He practised in the village from circa 1893 until the late 1920s, so would have been well known to probably all the men who died. Two of them worked for him as gardeners; when one married in 1915, Dr Wood lent his motor car to convey the wedding party to and from the church. He took an active interest in Woolpit School and is frequently mentioned in the school log book, usually in connection with a kind act or donation.

These are a few examples of his generosity.

• 27 December 1899: “Dr O R M Wood gave the children a cinematograph and lantern entertainment.”

• 22 January 1915: “Dr Wood sent in a case of oranges for the children.”

• January 1917: “Dr Wood with his customary kindness gave the children a conjuring entertainment in the Institute.”

• June 1919: “Dr Wood is providing prizes for an exhibition of wild flowers to be held in the Institute.”

• When a celebration was held in the village to mark the signing of the peace treaty in July 1919 a Punch and Judy show and jugglers were “specially procured from London by Dr Wood”.

An article in the Bury Post of 9 March 1917 tells us that on the previous Sunday a wooden tablet bearing the names of 13 men from the parish who had “laid down their lives for their country” was dedicated by the rector and placed on the wall of the institute. It was the gift of Dr Wood. Sadly, another 12 names had been added by the end of 1918.

Dr Wood then played a major role in 1920 when the institute was renovated and extended to become a permanent memorial to all 25 men, giving “a very large amount of time, labour and financial aid” to the project (Bury Free Press, 24 July 1920). In the speech he made at the dedication service, Dr Wood quoted from an article in The Times: “We can but keep alive the memory of the dead by doing something for the living.”

His portrait hangs in the large function room in the institute to remind us of the important part he played in Woolpit village life for over 30 years.

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NEWS REMEMBRANCE EVENTS AT ST JOHN’S CHURCH

COUNTY COUNCILLOR PENNY OTTON THEDWASTRE SOUTH DIVISION

There was a Poppy Festival at St John the Divine Church, Elmswell from November 6-11 arranged by the Friday Ladies’ Lunch Club and The Friends of St John’s Church to commemorate the end of the First World War.

Including Thurston, Beyton, Hessett, Drinkstone, Felsham, Gedding, Rattlesden (also Onehouse, Buxhall, Harleston, Shelland and Gt Finborough)

The village War Memorial is within the church, attached to the wall of the South Aisle. It names those men who returned from the First World War and the 28 soldiers and one sailor who lost their lives, as well as those who died in the Second World War. There were 29 silhouette figures placed around the church. These stark, black silhouettes, individually named, mentioning their regiment and date of death were made and generously donated by Jonathon Noy of Eastern Frames, Haughley. They were reminders of the men’s tragic deaths and were appreciated by visitors, some of them being taken home by their descendants. Some of our visitors came from Essex, Cambridge, Kent, and Norfolk and there were family reunions, which was very rewarding for those of us who arranged the festival as well as for the families.

Highways Improvement and Innovation Board A Highways Improvement and Innovations Board was established in June and has met three times. The board recently announced that Suffolk Highways will be piloting a new approach to prioritising pothole repairs over the winter, specifically for services coming out of the Ipswich Phoenix House depot. If successful, the new approach will be rolled out to other depots.

Elsewhere in the church there were poppies (made by ladies from the village and some from Australia) draped from the balcony and surrounding the font; other displays in the sanctuary represented animals during wartime, with purple poppies, saddles representing horses and decoy pigeons representing the homing pigeons which carried messages. There were yellow and red roses referring to the Minden Rose of the Suffolk Regiment on the drumhead altar.

Other displays featured the ‘lost aerodrome’ of Elmswell, women in wartime and the trenches with sandbags, a stretcher and some crutches.

The Garden of Remembrance in the churchyard was, as usual, available for people to place crosses in memory of loved ones. This year there were 27, the most there has ever been.

During the week children from Elmswell Community Primary School came to see the exhibition and showed great interest. On their return to school, one class made poppies and wrote messages on them to form a huge cross which was displayed in the church.

The Annual Service of Remembrance was held on Sunday, November 11 at which the attendance was the highest for many years. The choir sang Let Justice Roll Down Like a River, illustrated on the screens by a powerpoint presentation depicting scenes of war, famine, flood, etc. The Brownies read the lesson and a member of the Scouts recited In Flanders Fields. Binyon’s words and words from the Kohima Epitaph were spoken by Bryan Holmes and intercessions led by Jean Folkard. The service was conducted by The Rev Peter Goodridge.

Wreaths were placed on the War Memorial by representatives of the parish council, the Amenities Association, Elmswell Firefighters, Scouts and Guides, St John’s Church, Ladies’ Lunch Group and the Anglian Regiment.

This was a special week for all who attended and thanks must go to those who loaned photographs and other memorabilia for the event. Numbers of visitors to the exhibition exceeded the organisers’ expectations.

The new approach will mean more potholes in a single area will be repaired together, and potholes of 200mm width will also be included. The pilot aims to tackle more potholes at once, rather than later returning to the same area to repair nearby potholes. It will also aim to reduce the number of temporary repairs, which also have to be returned to at a later date. This should reduce the travelling time of maintenance crews and result in more potholes being filled.

The board has also been looking into improving the coordination of road closures, reducing the number of roadworks which overrun, and exploring ways for Suffolk Highways to work closer with town and parish councils.

A progress report from the board is expected at scrutiny later in the year.

Second Suffolk Children’s Home judged ‘inadequate’ A children’s home run by Suffolk County Council has been judged ‘inadequate’

by Ofsted following an inspection on October 3. This is the second council-run children’s home to receive an inadequate rating in the past two months.

Council signs up to 100% Nuclear Energy Deal At the council meeting on October 18, members of my political group put forward a motion calling on the council to recognise the benefits of renewable energy, commission a report into smart grids, and commit to ensuring at least 50 per cent of the council’s energy comes from renewable sources by 2025.

Unfortunately, the administration amended the motion to remove any clear actions or targets.

It was also revealed that the council have recently signed off on a 100 per cent nuclear energy deal for the next three years, to commence in March 2019. This represents a major step backwards for Suffolk County Council, whose current energy contract includes 18.7 per cent renewables.

Home to School Transport Following the decision to change the rule, I have been asked to sit on one of the working groups looking into any improvements/changes that could be made. I have been in touch with Helen Wilson to find out what ideas she is looking at to help her school.

New Home Care Operating Model At Cabinet on October 9, a new home care operating model was agreed. It was acknowledged that the previous model had not been a success and had caused unnecessary stress to both care providers and residents receiving home care. We were assured that ‘lessons had been learned’ from this previous experience and that greater care had been taken to develop the operating model in partnership with stakeholders.

Remembrance Sunday As this was the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War, I asked for a wreath to be presented to Thurston and Drinkstone churches on behalf of the county council, and laid one myself at the war memorial in Rattlesden.

Best Wishes for 2019. penny.otton@suffolk.gov.uk

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350 4

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE & CHARITY SHOP We are delighted with the response to our appeal for the Father Frost Special Delivery program. Many people have pledged to send a Christmas stocking to a Chernobyl child and we are very grateful for all the support given to us for this program. We will travel to Belarus on December 28 with the children who will have visited for December and spend nine days distributing all the stockings to disadvantaged children in outlying villages and in the children’s hospitals.

We are still looking for hosts for our 2019 program; although it seems a long way off much preparation has to be done both here and in Belarus to allow the children to come. Next year’s visit will be from June 30 to July 28 and we would ask that anyone interested about finding out more about the program gets in touch with us as soon as possible for an initial discussion.

A reminder about our forthcoming events: We are holding a Christmas themed Chocolate Bingo event on December 15 at Stowmarket Football Club. Tickets are already selling strongly so make sure to get yours in plenty of time. Tickets (£6 / £4 for under-10s) are available from our charity shop in Needham Market or directly from the football club.

The charity continues to enjoy your support and for that we are extremely grateful. Please remember, if you are having a clear-out before Christmas, all those unwanted gifts you have put away and don’t know what to do with make fantastic raffle prizes for our fundraising.

We regularly receive new donations to our charity shop in Needham Market and stock is frequently rotated so the shop is well worth a visit. We provide regular updates regarding new items of interest via our shop Facebook page so keep checking back there. Donations are especially welcome at this time of year as we may be able to use some items for the children who arrive in December, or those that we are taking presents to at the end of the year on our Father Frost program. We are starting to build a really good stock of eveningwear for that special big night out during the festive season. Why spend a fortune when you can pick up something ‘nearly new’ instead?

As always we are extremely grateful for your support of our children and we can assure you that every penny raised stays in Mid Suffolk to use for the benefit of our local link and the children and families we support in Belarus.

Elizabeth Parker, Link Chair CCLL Mid Suffolk

STOWMARKET CHORALE On Saturday, November 3, Stowmarket Chorale, formed in 1901, performed Handel’s Messiah in their first concert under recently appointed music director Tom Appleton. Although the choir has performed this piece before, Tom brought his own interpretation to this well-known music.

The audience heard the choir sing For unto us a Child is Born and Hallelujah, amongst others, interspersed by solo pieces such as Ev’ry Valley and The Trumpet Shall Sound by the soprano and bass soloists.

The choir was complemented by a string quartet, our regular accompanist on harpsichord and a trumpet player who took a prominent place in the pulpit. The fireworks display going on outside added some unexpected sound effects!

Under Tom’s guidance, the choir seems to have found a new energy and enthusiasm. Rehearsals are a lively affair, bringing the music ‘off the page’, which resulted in a moving concert. To their delight the choir received a standing ovation. Tom’s hard work with the choir has obviously paid off!

The choir will next be performing at The Apex in Bury St. Edmunds on December 1 for BBC Radio Suffolk as part of Children in Need, where they’ll be singing a selection from the Messiah and various carols. In March 2019 they will be back for a concert at Stowmarket Parish Church to sing Brahms’ Ein Deutsches Requiem in German.

For more information about the choir, please contact choir secretary Mary Payne: secretary@stowmarketchorale.org.uk

ROOKERY BOWLS CLUB Rookery Bowls Club and their volunteers are working very hard to help disadvantaged groups and individuals living in Stowmarket.

Carol Pybus and Chris Brooks have been recognised for their efforts working with a host of groups in the town.

At two separate events on Thursday, October 18, Mrs Pybus won Community Hero of the Year at the Stowmarket Town Council Stars Awards, while Mrs Pybus and Mr Brooks picked up the joint Mid Suffolk Volunteer of the Year award at the Babergh and Mid Suffolk awards event.

01449 760343 / www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE This month it’s all about Christmas! We’ve launched our reverse advent calendar to collect festive food donations for Stowmarket Foodbank. Buy one item a day, put it in a box and then bring your collection to the Christmas Lunch.

The December Coffee Morning will include a Christmas Bazaar on Friday, December 7 at Needham Market Community Centre starting at 10am for you to stock up on gifts or treat yourself.

Christmas Lunch will be at noon on Friday, December 14 at the Shepherd and Dog, Onehouse.

Don’t forget our second business exhibition MSBE2 on March 27 at The Mix in Stowmarket. Have you booked a stand yet? Do you want to ensure you get a goody bag? Sign up as a visitor to make sure.

To find out more go to: https://msbe.biz

The club visits three care homes and helps keep around 60 residents active each week, as well as working with several groups in Stowmarket, including the Dementia Action Alliance.

This summer, the club welcomed its first blind bowler, who now competes with sighted players and is entering the National Visually Impaired Bowls England Championship 2019 in Weston-Super-Mare.

The club has now launched a new ‘Happy Days Fun Club’ at its Finborough Road base on Tuesdays and Fridays. The sessions are open to people living with dementia, recovering from strokes or with disabilities.

Mrs Pybus said: “We are encouraging everybody, even those without any disability living at home, to come and join us for some fun, games, and activity and a cup of tea, biscuits and to meet new friends.”

The club is currently fundraising for specialised paving to allow those living with dementia, visually impaired and disabled in wheelchairs and their carers to visit in the summer.

They have a fundraising slot at Stowmarket Tesco’s Bags of Help for this month so please pop your tokens in for a good cause!

For more information contact Chris: 01359 241046 / chris@todd.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Sunday, December 16, 6pm Woolpit Room Christian Fellowship White Elm Road, Woolpit IP30 9SQ For more information call Phil & Jan Sparkes (01359 240502) or Margaret Cook (01359 240565)

MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE The team at the Museum of East Anglian Life is delighted to announce that they have been awarded a grant of £158,610 from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and Defra towards their Heritage Farm project.

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The grant will allow the museum to build a new attraction at the site, with new displays in a new building, an animal handling and learning area for visitors and better conditions for collections. New paths will make the site more accessible for all visitors.

The Heritage Farm will open in April 2019. As well as the new building at the heart of the attraction, there will be a brand new orchard and animals to meet, representing the key East Anglian breeds.

The museum’s director, Jenny Cousins, said: “We are delighted to have received this support. Together with a grant from Viridor and the money that the public have given, we will be able to create a new and exciting attraction at the museum. There will be hands-on activities available in all weathers and much better conditions for our collection. We’re really excited about the project!”

The grant has been awarded by the Rural Payments Agency as part of its Rural Development Programme for England. The programme seeks to support the development of tourism and recreational infrastructure, to create jobs and 16:33 growth in the rural economy.

LIVING WITH THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE An evening of Remembering, Reflecting and Support Closing Thoughts Victor Jack Friday, January 25, 7.30pm Woolpit Room Christian Fellowship White Elm Road, Woolpit IP30 9SQ For more information contact Phil & Jan Sparkes (01359 240502) or Margaret Cook (01359 240565). Free admission.

A JOLLY, JINGLING CHRISTMAS

What are you doing at 7.30pm on Tuesday, December 11?

Forget about sitting in your old armchair watching the same old TV programmes. Come along to the United Reformed Church, Stowmarket where you will receive a warm welcome from the Jubilee Ladies Choir, our conductor Simon Welham and accompanist Calvin Goymer.

For your evening’s entertainment we will be singing a selection of seasonal music. Tickets are £7 and include light refreshments. There will also be a raffle. Tickets can be purchased by ringing 01449 736374/723424 or at the door.

Why not take a look at our Facebook page where you can listen to our rehearsal and concert tracks?

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OUT & ABOUT STOWMARKET ARTISAN MARKET We had a great turnout at our November market with 20 stalls displaying a cornucopia of crafts and Christmas gifts.

The refreshments raised £220.52 for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, so thank you to everybody who turned out to support us.

Saturday, December 1 will see our last market of the season and again we will have 20 stalls offering some very unique gifts, ranging from inexpensive stocking fillers to one-off recycled lamps (all PAT tested with certificates), woodcrafts, jewellery, textiles, hats, pictures, book art, up-cycing and objet d’art plus much more. Do come and see us for your last chance before Christmas to get some handmade gifts from our talented artisans.

We are located at the Scout Centre, Milton Road North, Stowmarket.

Admission is free and the market is open from 10am-1.20pm. Accessible parking opposite and refreshments available.

Sue Delf: 01449 613224 Facebook: Stowmarket Artisan Market

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT NORTON SALVATION ARMY Do you have some free time?

Are you looking to support your local community?

We are looking for some volunteers to help us run Tea and Toast, Toddlesong (our toddler group) and our Lunch Club.

Tea and Toast runs from 8.45-9.30am on Mondays in term time only; help is needed from 8am to set up.

Toddlesong runs from 9.30am on Mondays in term time only. We begin with singing nursery rhymes and songs, stopping at approximately 10am for snacks, which need to be prepared, and the children enjoy free play from 10.15-11.30am. All volunteers would need to have a DBS check and references.

Lunch Club is on Thursdays from 9am-2pm all year round. We are looking for help to set up tables, prepare food, serve food, wash and clear up.

For any more information on these volunteering opportunities please call 01359 240787 or private message us on Norton Salvation Army’s Facebook page.

Captains Andrew and Jackie Jarrold

DICK WHITTINGTON December 4-9 at the Regal Theatre, Stowmarket

Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society’s panto is creeping closer! Here are our junior rats trying out their costumes. Will they stop Dick becoming Lord Mayor of London? Come along and find out from December 4 at The Regal.

All tickets are £10 on Tuesday and Wednesday. Get your tickets from 01449 612825 or online at: www.regalstowmarket.co.uk

THE FROG & THE PRINCESS The Hut Theatre presents Norwich Puppet Theatre’s production of The Frog & The Princess at Drinkstone Village Hall on Sunday, December 9 at 2.30pm. Ticket £6.

Box Office: 01449 737101 A chance for children to bring mums and dads, aunts and uncles, grans and granddads to enjoy a wonderful show together as a Christmas treat. Suitable for age four up to 104!

BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET CATS PROTECTION This month we are hoping to re-home Pixie, a very pretty and tiny semi-longhaired tabby and white cat aged about two years. She is very sweet natured and loves fuss and attention. Pixie has come into our care as she did not get on with the existing cat in the household and has not lived with a dog. She has been used to living with children over six years of age. Pixie has been neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

If you are interested in giving a home to Pixie or another cat in our care please ring 01449 674584. For more information visit our website and our Facebook page. www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds

REINDEER RAMPAGE Christmas Eve was unusually mild this year, so Father Christmas turned out the reindeer into the paddock for some well-earned exercise before their great efforts the next day.

As reindeer are want to do, fun and games soon followed, with much chasing and rough and tumble. Blixen scurried after Vixen, who bumped into Dancer, who in turn sent Prancer flying and crashing into the paddock gate, which slowly swung open. Someone had forgotten to lock it!

The neighbour maintained a convincing rant and urged Father Christmas to be more careful, but was secretly glad because he didn’t really like Brussels sprouts anyway, and when he thought about it bit more, if there were no Brussels sprouts, at least they wouldn’t have to go through that incident with the fire brigade when Uncle Fred ate too many three years ago.

The whole incident had to be reported to Mrs Christmas, of course. “You really must be more careful with that sort of thing,” she said. “This could have been a costly mistake,” she added, while clutching the paddock gate key tightly in her pocket, just in case it should fall out, or worse, be seen

by Father Christmas.

Seizing their chance, the reindeer charged forth out of the gate and into the next-door neighbour’s vegetable patch. Within minutes, each reindeer was soon munching their way through the crop of Brussels sprouts, grown especially for Christmas dinner.

On seeing this, Father Christmas’s neighbour flew out of his back door and yelled to Father Christmas to collect his animals immediately before they caused any more damage, which Father Christmas did as quickly as possible, fearing that he would be liable for the costs as he was responsible.

Buttermarket, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ED Telephone: 01449 613101 • Fax: 01449 615087 Email: info@gudgeons-prentice.co.uk

Gudgeons Prentice wish all our clients and everybody we work with a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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OUT & ABOUT HAUGHLEY ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Vice-chairman: Mr Tim Hart Secretary: Mr Lewis Van Slyke “THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD” The branch commemorated the one hundredth anniversary of the Great War in a poignant way which I am sure the families and soldiers from 100 years ago would be proud.

On Friday, November 9 members from the branch attended a service at the church with the children from Crawford’s Primary School. The graves of Reynolds, Hayward and Moss each had a cross placed on them by a member of the school. After the service we joined the children for lunch at the school were Year 6 served us.

Over 250 people joined us on Remembrance Sunday to remember those who sacrificed their today for our tomorrow. Joined by the Scouts, parish council, Palmers Bakery of Haughley and many other local groups, we marched from the post office to the church, giving a dignified eyes right as we passed the memorial.

Once all were seated the Service of Remembrance began with The Rev Brin Singleton welcoming the congregation. During the service each name on the memorial was read out by our president, Major A Morris AAC. As each name was read out a candle was distinguished and a poppy laid at the altar.

Mr Buttle recited the Epitaph with much emotion amongst the well-knitted community of today.

Following the service, Standards gathered at the rear of the memorial where wreaths were placed by village organisations at the foot of the memorial.

Afterwards the branch members gathered at the Cedars Hotel for lunch.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Our next meeting is on December 4 at the Scout Hut and our first meeting in 2019 will be on February 5.

To view our latest newsletter and calendar of events visit: www.britishlegion.org/branches/Haughley Or find Haughley Royal British Legion at: www.thehaughleywarmemorial.wordpress.com

HAUGHLEY WAR MEMORIAL PROJECT Recent events to commemorate the end of the First World War have focused people’s minds to remember those who fought in the Great War and in the Second World War which, in a short space of time, will become a distant memory. This is why we would like to document these before it’s too late for future generations.

We would like more information on those who served and died in the First World War and sadly don’t have any photographs of Ernest Ruffles, William Baldry, Walter Elmer, Edward Harrison, John Elmer, William Goode, William Pearson, Percy Keeble, Harold Kemp and Herbert Harrison whom we would like to remember.

With regards to the Second World War, we would like to know more about those who served, particularly Tom Bevan, Herbert Coleman, J Brown, Reginald Frances, John and Ron Golding, Ben Green, John Clarke and Reginald Jolly. We have no details at all of J Brown, or even a photo of John Clarke. Are there others who should be remembered?

We need recollections of what happened and what went on in Haughley in the Second World War, for instance who was stationed here, what precautions were taken, e.g. ARP, Home Guard, evacuees, as well as what events took place, prisoners of war, bombings and so on. Photos would be particularly helpful which can be copied, but anything would be gratefully appreciated.

AVOID THE FESTIVEOVERINDULGING SYNDROME The Christmas season is nearly upon us, time to relax and enjoy a variety of food and drink. Overindulging is easily done with all the fun. An average UK person might consume as much as 6,000 calories just on Christmas Day, far more than the daily intake guidelines of 2,000 calories for women and 2,500 calories for men. It’s easy to see why some start off the New Year a bit heavier.

Furthermore, overindulging is not limited to Christmas Day alone as celebrations can begin much earlier in December. An average person consuming an extra 500 calories per day might easily see an increase in weight of 5lbs by the New Year.

So, what can be done to ensure we can still rightfully enjoy ourselves over Christmas but don’t end up being too heavy in January?

First up, get your portion sizes right. Aiming for a plate that is around one third vegetables is a good start and helps reaching the five-aday target. Try to cook for the shortest required time without excess water to retain as many nutrients as possible. Vegetables are a great source of dietary fibre so can be beneficial for digestion and gut health too, so maybe give the Brussels sprouts a moment of your time this year.

How about avoiding the offerings at work and Christmas parties?

Well you could always try other festive foods like satsumas at work instead of the communal office chocolates or mince pies. The average mince pie can contain about 250 calories, before it’s covered in cream or brandy butter.

If you have a work party, it’s easy to forget those excess calories in alcoholic drinks that soon add up. Instead of focusing on sweet cocktails or creamy liqueurs, consider alternating with a glass of water, calorie free drinks or using low calorie mixers and unsweetened fruit drinks if you cannot give up your mixer drink so easily.

When it comes to shopping for the big day, make a list and stick to it as best as possible. Avoid tempting aisles where you can and try not going overboard. Alternative festive snacks could include plain popcorn, pretzels, and veggie crudités with low-fat dip.

Whether setting up your own buffet table, or attending another, try to encourage one table visit, using smaller dessert sized plates, avoiding the high saturated fat offerings like sausage rolls and quiche, in favour of fruit, skinless turkey and veggie crudités.

For the big day itself, if you are going for the traditional turkey, great – it’s a good protein source and low fat, so long as you remove the skin before tucking in. Around the rest of the plate, try dry roast potatoes with a non-stick baking sheet or use an oil spray instead of smothering them in goose fat. You can try your gravy using veggie stock instead of meat juices, accompanied by a fruit-based stuffing with bread sauce made with low fat milk.

It does take discipline to manage the festive calories. If you feel your festive eating habits have got a little out of control and you need some specialist help to reverse it effectively and efficiently, consider seeing a qualified nutritionist or dietician.

Gavin Moore RD, BSc, UKAD HCPC Registered Dietician Sports and Performance Nutritionist PhysioFixx Physiotherapy Clinic

Please contact me at: acsargent48@gmail.com / 07958 961724

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HAYWARDS SOLICITORS

FOR ALL YOUR FAMILY’S LEGAL NEEDS We offer Fixed Fees at Competitive Rates

Telephone: (01449) 613631

email: enquiries@haywards-solicitors.co.uk www.haywards-solicitors.co.uk @HaywardsLaw on Twitter Free car park available for use by clients 7 - 9 TAVERN STREET STOWMARKET IP14 1PJ

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FURBABIES HOLIDAY BOARDING FOR GUINEA PIGS AND RABBITS

• At Furbabies we have over 20 years’ experience working with Guinea pigs, rabbits and small pets.

• Our log cabin is fully insulated and heated to keep your pets cosy.

• Good quality hay, fresh veggies and toys for your pets to play with.

• Qualified with a distinction in City & Guilds Pet Care Trust in animal management, plus a first-class honours as a Rodent Health Advisor, specialising in Guinea pig diseases and treatments, which included a two day practical at the Guinea pig hospital in Cambridge.

• Visit Facebook.com/angienice.54 to view our video link showing you around the Furbabies log cabin.

• We are also listed on Findpetboarding.com for more information, photos and reviews.

• We are insured with Pet Plan Sanctuary.

• The cost of each hutch is £6.00 per day including day of arrival and departure.

• No additional charges for Christmas.

FREE WEBCAM ACCESS available in your pet’s hutch so you can watch them on your smartphone and even TALK to them too!

To enquire or make a booking call 01359 258944 12

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Out & ABOUT ELMSWELL HISTORY GROUP

STOWMARKET BRIDGE CLUB

Last month, Kelvin Dakin gave us a very informative talk on Fisons, the Ipswich and Bramford fertiliser company. Started on land first developed in the mid-1800s as a local flour mill (as so many of them did in those days), it progressed to become a huge company selling agricultural fertilisers all over the world and being listed on London’s Stock Exchange. We were shown some super old pictures of barges and their workforce plying their trade up and down the river, to and from Ipswich Docks, as well as having the often hazardous manufacturing process explained to us in some detail.

A number of members took part in the Felixstowe Congress in early October. Two teams in the Swiss teams of four competition, both containing Stowmarket members, tied for first place; David Willson and Simon Riley made up half of one of one winning team while Norman Less was a member of the other. David Willson and Simon Riley came top in the qualifying heat of the Pairs Championship and a very creditable seventh in the final with Sam and Bim Wilson coming tenth. Jan Wynne and Jim Sawyer came seventh in the Consolation Final with John Heath and Caro Hunt eighth. New Stowmarket members Alison and Conrad Simons won the Really Easy Pairs.

To round off the first part of our 2018-19 season of monthly talks on all things historical in East Anglia, we have: Thursday, December 13: The True Story of Hereward the Wake of Ely, told in words and music by The Penland Phezants. Hereward the Wake’s daring commando raids against the Norman Conquest, gloriously crowned by his will o’ the wisp escapes along secret fen paths is the stuff of legends, and this riveting re-telling of the tale, based on contemporary Latin sources later compiled by 12th century monks, contains much more actual history than other national legends, as well as the added thrill of romance and magic!

As is usual for our December meeting, we will have our traditional delicious seasonal buffet to enjoy with mulled wine, and three chances to win a prize in our free prize draw of vouchers from local shops. As always, attendance is by pre-purchased ticket only; if you would like to join us please ring 01359 242601 as soon as possible (members £3 / visitors £5).

Our first two talks of the new year are:

On November 9 club members will take part in a nationwide simultaneous pairs competition in aid of Children in Need. On November 23 the club is holding a teams of four competition in which members of other clubs are invited to take part, while on December 16 the duplicate pairs session will be accompanied by festive drinks and bites.

Stowmarket’s final position in the county summer league for teams of eight depends on the result of one outstanding match, but whichever way that finishes Stowmarket while finish mid-table, a creditable position for one of the smaller clubs.

Visitors and new members are welcome. For more details contact Arthur Winchester on 01449 612105 or visit: www.bridgewebs.com/stowmarket Mervyn Pearson

STOWMARKET RAMBLERS

January 10: Bury’s Corn Exchange, Past and Present, an illustrated talk by John Orbell. Our speaker’s father worked at the Corn Exchange for many years, so he can remember going there as a boy and has researched a great deal about the varying fortunes of this magnificent Grade 1-listed building which opened for business in 1862 in the centre of our lovely market town.

His book on the subject will be available for sale that evening.

Sunday, December 2: 6 mile walk around Stowmarket via Harleston Church.

Park and meet at Stowmarket Football Club at 10.30am / GR. TM 046596.

Leader: 01449 612093

February 14: The Story of East Anglian Almshouses, an illustrated talk by Sarah Doig. This is a welcome return of local well-regarded historian and writer on her newest topic of research, which should give us some interesting insights into this fascinating subject, beginning with the monks in the Middle Ages right through to 1853 when the Charity Commission was founded, and including mention of our very own almshouses in Elmswell.

Sunday, December 16: Short walk around Thornham Estate. Park and meet at Thornham Walks Centre car park (fee payable) at 10.30am.

Leader: 07919 350170

New members are always warmly welcomed at our meetings – just come along to Wesley Hall on the second Thursday each month for our prompt start at 7.30pm. You don’t need to become a member to attend, although it is financially advantageous for you to do so if you plan to attend more than five of our 11 meetings per year.

Sunday, December 30: 10 or 6 mile walk along Felixstowe Prom. For longer walk park and meet at Landguard Point Visitors Centre (GR. TM 284322) at 10am and for shorter walk park in town where legal and meet at Felixstowe Pier at 10.50am. Lunch at one of the Felixstowe Ferry cafés or bring a picnic.

Leader: 01449 781917

We wish you all the very best for the Festive Season and New Year.

STOWUPLAND LOCAL HISTORY GROUP

www.elmswell-history.org.uk / 01359 242601

WETHERDEN REMEMBERS Wetherden History Group has produced a book to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the 1918 Armistice and it is dedicated to the men of Wetherden who served.

The research started back in 2014 with a list of the 88 men on the Wetherden Roll of Honour which was published in July 1917. Of those, thirteen had already given their lives for the great cause, two were prisoners of war and three were reported wounded. They were the sons, brothers or husbands of people living in Wetherden at that time. The book tells the stories of those men and of another 57 we discovered had connections with Wetherden and who served in the Great War, 1914-1918.

Of these 145 men, 16 are remembered on the Wetherden War Memorial and another 16 are remembered on memorials elsewhere.

Sunday, December 9: 5 mile walk in Dedham Vale followed by Carol Service at Lawford. Park and meet in the car park near Red Lion pub in East Bergholt at 10am / GR. TM 068347. Leader: 07519 164931

Sunday, December 23: 4.5 mile walk in Great Barton village and countryside. Park and meet at Great Barton Village Hall (opposite garage on A143) at 10.30am / GR. TL 894670. Leader: 07795 574762

Wednesday, December 5: The Angel Roofs of East Anglia by Michael Rimmer Angel roofs – elaborate timber structures adorned with carvings of angels – were often too difficult for Reformation iconoclasts to reach. As a result, they comprise the largest surviving body of major English medieval wood sculpture. Michael Rimmer’s talk will show the artistry and architecture of these inaccessible and little-studied medieval artworks and explain how they were made and why. Small contributions of festive fare will be very welcome.

We meet at 7.30pm in Stowupland Village Hall IP14 4BQ where there is plenty of space to park. Visitors are always welcome and refreshments are available.

Admission is £1 for members, £3 for non-members.

Please note that we do not meet in January but have an exciting programme in store for 2019. For more information, contact Judy Clarke: 01449 615386

STOWMARKET & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB There will not be a meeting in December, but instead the club’s Christmas Party will take place on Wednesday, December 5 at Stowmarket Golf Club

The book is £10. For more information contact Pat Tuffin: 01359 240396 / tuffinswetherden@tiscali.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT / SPORT STOWMARKET MONDAY CLUB Stowmarket & District Monday Club continues with its activities in the run-up to Christmas. We enjoyed an evening of Hoy, followed by a craft evening. This involves making Christmas tree decorations for members to take home. This was organised by Linda and Thelma. Craft evenings are always enjoyed by the members and we will have another evening before Christmas to make cards.

We will also have an evening of music, with entertainment provided

by Slightly Soiled. This will involve dancing and singing along with the band. On another evening we will have a quiz compiled by Liz. To finish off the session we have a party and Christmas evening when our friends Yesterday will be with us again. We then have a three-week break, recommencing with a disco on January 14.

Happy Christmas everybody!

ELMSWELL BOWLS CLUB I begin this article written on November 5 with an apology to Pam Riches and Joan Davies. Included in the November issue were the results of our in-house competitions and for the Ladies Targets, Joan Davies was shown as runner-up when it should have read Pam Riches. Apologies ladies.

Recently we held our annual dinner at The Crown in Stowupland where we received a warm welcome, good food and the staff attended to our every need. Thank you to all at The Crown from all of us. After the meal it was time to hand out our competition awards to all those worthy winners, but on this occasion an extra prize was given. This was to Nick Chamberlin with the gratitude of all members for his very hard work to produce an excellent green to play on. Many senior and/or county bowlers from a wide area gave high praise and the comment that it was one of the best they had played upon during the season. Then it was on to the raffle with a wonderful assortment of prizes. Thank you to everyone.

This month we have our AGM and we hope to have three teams participating in the Stowupland Village Quiz. Shortly afterwards we will have our Christmas Party. In between times we are working hard on our clubhouse, green and surrounding areas in preparation for next year as time quickly passes.

There is plenty of time for anyone residing in the area or close surrounding districts who may be interested in trying their hand in the grand game of bowling to contact us. We will give a warm welcome to our genuinely happy club, one of the oldest established in Suffolk. People of the younger age group, established players and anyone willing to give it a go should contact our secretary, Graham Newman, who will be more than happy to speak with you: 01359 240846 Elmswell Bowls Club wishes In Touch and its readers a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful, healthy New Year. Finally, a thank you to In Touch for the assistance shown us over the past months.

David Begg

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STOWMARKET TENNIS CLUB It’s up! Our winter airhall, or ‘dome’, was successfully installed on October 19 after a very long day. Over a dozen volunteer members came along to lend a hand, but a particularly huge thank you to David Stamp and Carol Clements for working right through until tea time to get the job completed.

It’s a wonderful facility which enables three of our five courts to be virtually winter-proof and have uninterrupted play right through the coldest, wettest months of the year. Let’s just keep our fingers crossed that if any snow comes our way we only get a couple of centimetres!

Competitive play is in top gear at the moment with many of our members involved in the Ipswich & District Winter League. Each match involves home and away ties so any home advantage is balanced across the fixture. We have particularly slow, bouncy macadam courts here but some clubs, such as David Lloyd, have incredibly fast carpet. It often takes quite a while to ‘tune in’ to the different surface and often the only way to be totally at ease is to play for an hour or two every day for a week. Not possible when you’re visiting the away club for just one match, but something the pros do regularly before starting a tournament. Good luck to all our doubles pairs as they chase wins and promotion for next season.

The coaching program is also firing on all cylinders. The juniors are enjoying eight weeks of ‘open’ style coaching focussing on performance fundamentals – court position, footwork, targeting the shots, recovery, etc. Often it gets a bit too cold inside the dome to slow down and work through the nuances of technique so instead the sessions open up and we get the players moving constantly which keeps everyone nice and warm.

Adult disco tennis is now on Saturdays only from 9-10am, which is a great way to start the weekend, burn a few calories (or pre-burn a few ready for the weekend!) and no tennis experience is required. The class is a superb way to try a bit of tennis, chase a load of balls, all while some fantastic disco tunes drive you along. Brand new faces get the first session for free so why not give it a bash?

Lots going on, loads of activity, so all you have to do is get in touch. See you on court.

Senior Club Chris Cunningham chris@chriscoaching.plus.com / 07761 142372

STOWMARKET CRICKET CLUB The annual end of season cricket match and awards saw Stowmarket Cricket Club celebrate a third successive promotion, its first team playing next year in Division Three of the Two Counties League.

As well as an enjoyable cricket match, our main sponsor, Andrew Bingham of Andrew Bingham Independent Funeral Services, presented the awards to seniors and juniors, the winners including Dale and Ady Watling, Clive Witherly, Paul Bird, Nick Pyke, Mike Ives, George Tillbrook and Ashley Lilley.

We welcome players of all ages and abilities. Please consult our website or contact Clive Witherly for further details: wgg51@btinternet.com

In Touch online:

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Norton Salvation Army

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CHURCH NEWS ELMSWELL BAPTIST CHURCH Ashfield Road, Elmswell IP30 9HG www.elmswellbaptist.org.uk Along with many churches throughout the country, we commemorated the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War with our annual Service of Remembrance.

Special features this year were the cascade of knitted poppies over the front porch and the gift of two silhouette figures of a sailor and soldier of the First World War (kindly donated by Trisha and John Noy of Eastern Frames at Haughley.

Our thanks to all the ladies who knitted the poppies and to Trisha and John for the silhouettes.

Our services and activities for December are: Monday, December 3: Ladies Friendship Group annual Nosh and Natter evening where the ladies invite their menfolk for a meal and entertainment

by Gavin Milnthorpe.

Thursday, December 13: Food and Friends Christmas Lunch at noon. Contact Jackie to book your place: 01359 245918 Wednesday, December 19: join with us and our friends from St John’s Parish Church and musicians from the Norton Salvation Army for carol singing at Crown Mill Elmswell, and for refreshments afterwards at our church in Ashfield Road.

Christmas Eve at 5pm: join us for our annual Carols by Candlelight service followed by hot mince pies and tea or coffee.

Our services in December start at 10.30am and will be led by: December 2

Rev Barbara Challis (inc. Communion)

December 9

Stephen Spurgeon (All-Age service)

December 15 The Congregation (we each take a part in the service) December 23 Stephen Spurgeon December 24 Stephen Spurgeon (Carols by Candlelight at 5pm) December 30 The Congregation (we each take a part in the service) On behalf of everybody at Elmswell Baptist Church I wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year and thank you for taking the time to read these reports and notices.

WOOLPIT ROOM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

St Mary’s, Woolpit and All Saints’, Drinkstone SERVICES FOR CHRISTMAS CHRISTINGLE SERVICES Sunday, December 2 Me, You and Christingle 2 All Saints Church, Drinkstone Sunday, December 9 Christingle Service St Mary’s Church, Woolpit Both services in aid of the Children’s Society.

CHRISTMAS ACTIVITY AFTERNOON Saturday, December 22 St Mary’s Church, Woolpit, 2-3.30pm Crafts, stories and activities For more information please contact Rev Ruth: 01359 242244 / ruthfarrell391@googlemail.com FAMILY CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Sunday, December 23 St Mary’s Church, 3pm Followed by refreshments NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS With The Tudor Rose Singers Wednesday, December 19, St Mary’s Church, 7.30pm Come and enjoy a traditional Carol Service and capture the mystery of Christmas through traditional readings and music Followed by mulled wine and nibbles MIDNIGHT EUCHARIST Monday, December 24, 11.30pm at St Mary’s, Woolpit CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS A quiet service of Holy Communion on Christmas Morning 9am at St Mary’s, Woolpit FAMILY COMMUNION FOR CHRISTMAS 10am at All Saints’, Drinkstone Don’t forget to bring a present or two!

THE CRIB SERVICE Fun for all the family on Christmas Morning 10am at St Mary’s, Woolpit Sunday, December 30 Benefice Communion Service at St Mary’s, Woolpit

White Elm Road, Woolpit IP30 9SQ We are a group of ordinary people who want to worship and praise God, thank Him for all His love and seek to share His love with others in our daily lives. We invite you to join us in any of the church’s activities – you will be very welcome.

For further information please visit: www.woolpitroomfellowship.org Sundays: 10-11am followed by coffee & biscuits May we wish you all a very Happy Christmas as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.

The angel appeared to Joseph and said “[Mary] will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew ch1v21 See page 8 for CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT and LIVING WITH THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE.

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CHURCH NEWS Breakfast Church 3rd Sunday of the month

9am at St John’s, Elmswell

ST JOHN’S CHURCH, ELMSWELL Hello from St Johns!

Recap November has been, once again, a wonderfully busy month for St John’s. We are blessed to have so many volunteers and so many people dedicated to knowing Christ and making Him known. We had a beautiful Time to Remember service held to mark the passing of loved ones and to honour their memory and the Friends of St John’s did an incredible Armistice exhibition in the church (see page 4). We also had our amazing Christmas Fair (with a café, craft stalls, games, tombolas and, of course, Santa!), a moving Saturday film night and a Friday afternoon Messy Church – probably the messiest yet – not to forget the visit from Bishop Mike on Sunday, November 25.

Christmas!

We wish you all the most marvelous Christmas. Details of all our services are provided below.

“God became man; the divine Son became a Jew; the Almighty appeared on earth as a helpless human baby, unable to do more than lie and stare and wriggle and make noises, needing to be fed and changed and taught to talk like any other child… The babyhood of the Son of God was a reality.

The more you think about it, the more staggering it gets. Nothing in fiction is so fantastic as is this truth of the Incarnation.” Timothy J Keller, Hidden Christmas: The Surprising Truth Behind the Birth of Christ God bless you this Christmas and very best wishes for 2019.

We are seeing new faces at St John’s all the time. If you’re interested in why we do what we do, then come along! We look forward to welcoming you.

The Rev Peter Goodridge

News Do you enjoying singing? Why not join our 2018 community choir! There are two rehearsal dates this month, Mondays 3 and 10 at 7.30pm at the church. Everyone is welcome to join and we’ll be singing at the Carols by Candlelight service on December 16 at 6.30pm. It promises to be a great occasion. Spread the word!

www.stjohnselmswell.org.uk

Our new stainless-steel roof is up, we are watertight and it looks great. Thanks to everyone who supported this project. We have pictures of our new roof taken by drone! It looks fantastic.

Thank you to all who attended Remembrance Sunday. As well as it being an important occasion of remembering those have sacrificed so much in war, in excess of £700 was raised for the Royal British Legion. Thank you!

Carol Singing will take place on Wednesday, December 19 at 7pm at Crown Mill accompanied by the Norton Salvation Army band.

Refreshments will be available afterwards at the Baptist Church.

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01359 240512 / elmswellrector@gmail.com www.facebook.com/stjohnselmswell SERVICES AND EVENTS Sunday, December 2 9.30am Family Church 11am Holy Communion (BCP) Sunday, December 9 8am Holy Communion (BCP) 10.30am Parish Praise Sunday, December 16 9.30am Breakfast Church (breakfast from 9am) 11am Holy Communion 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Sunday, December 23 10.30am Holy Communion Monday, December 24 3.30pm Messy Nativity 11.30pm Late Night Communion (BCP) Tuesday, December 25 8am Holy Communion (BCP) 10am Christmas All-Age Celebration Sunday, December 30 10.30am Informal Communion (all-age) Sunday, January 6 9.30am Family Church 11am Morning Prayer with Holy Communion (BCP)

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CHURCH NEWS ST ANDREW’S NORTON & ST ANDREW’S TOSTOCK Part of the Benefice of Pakenham, Norton & Tostock, with Great Ashfield, Hunston & Stowlangtoft Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Katherine Valentine 01359 235095 / katherine@kavalentine.plus.com Sunday, December 2 8am Holy Communion, St Andrew’s Norton 9.30 for 10am family@church at Pakenham Sunday, December 9 9.30am Holy Communion, St Andrew’s Tostock 6pm Evensong, St Andrew’s Norton Sunday, December 16 3pm Carol Service, St Andrew’s Tostock 6pm Carol Service, St Andrew’s Norton To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

Sunday, December 23 9.30am Family Communion, St Andrew’s Norton 11am Morning Prayer, St Andrew’s Tostock Monday, December 24: Christmas Eve 3pm Crib Service, St Andrew’s Tostock

Children invited to dress as Shepherds, Angels & Wise Men 11.30pm Midnight Communion at Great Ashfield Tuesday, December 25: Christmas Day 9.30am Family Festival Communion, St Andrew’s Norton 10am Family Festival Communion, St Andrew’s Tostock Sunday, December 30 10am Benefice Communion, St Andrew’s Norton Christmas Countryside Church at The Croft, Tostock Monday, December 17: 10am Carole & Mince Pies An informal service of prayer and praise for everyone is held at The Croft every month. Come and sing your favourite hymns, chat with friends and enjoy the refreshments.

St Mary’s, Pakenham, 9.30 for 10am Sunday, December 2: Christingle Come at 9.30am to make your Christingle orange.

Breakfasty refreshments available from 9.30am and stay for a delicious Harvest Brunch afterwards! This service on the first Sunday of every month is run by the whole benefice and is the opportunity for all our villages and families to join together in worship and get to know each other.

Look out for the invitation coming through your door!

CAROL SINGING WITH THE SALVATION ARMY BAND St Andrew’s Church, Tostock on Thursday, December 20 at 7pm Come and sing your hearts out at this wonderful evening – wonderful refreshments too if past years are anything to go by! In aid of St Nicholas’ Hospice.

NORTON CHRISTMAS COFFEE MORNING Tuesday, December 18, 10.30am-noon Our Christmas Coffee Morning is at the home of Penny & Charles Mathieason, Street Farm, Woolpit Road Norton. Christmas raffle and mince pies! Come and enjoy a coffee/tea with old friends and make some new ones too! If you could bring a small Christmassy prize for the raffle that would be wonderful!

All welcome – see you there!

CHRISTMAS CONCERT BY NORTON SINGERS FROM NORTON SCHOOL Saturday, December 8 at 4pm in St Andrew’s Church, Norton Get ready for Christmas! Come and enjoy this fun concert of carols, Christmas songs and readings. Christmassy refreshments too! Donations in aid of St Andrew’s Church and The Children’s Society.

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