In Touch News with Hadleigh December 2018

In Touch

™™© ™ ©© ™©

with Chattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Raydon, with Hadleigh Layham & Holton St Mary Volume 1 • Issue No. 5 • FEBRUARY 2016 Volume 4 • Issue No. 3 • DECEMBER 2018

Skiphire www.collins-skiphire.co.uk

For a fast, efficient & price friendly local service

01473 327596

orders@collins-skiphire.co.uk

Merry Christmas M an

from

i ng sionH ousePublish

MarksAndMann_Ipswich_88mm145mm_Mar2018.ai 1 12/03/2018 11:31:56

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

With you every step of the way Ipswich - 01473 396 296

99-101 Penshurst Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 8QB

www.marksandmann.co.uk

Wixfield Park

The Street, Great Bricett, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP7 7DW

T PARANGE H E EXCCHEM LE* S ILAB AVA

Fully Residential Park Exclusively for the over 55’s At Tingdene Parks, we take the time to make sure that you get the home of your dreams by offering superior modern living exclusively for those starting their new lifestyle at 55.

Located in the heart of Suffolk’s beautiful Constable Country, Wixfield Park is an established park with a community feel for semi-retired and retired residents. It is situated on the edge of the attractive village of Great Bricett, next to open countryside and within easy access of local amenities.

01933 551 613 I tingdene-parks.net *Call for further information.

2

In Touch with Hadleigh

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

with Chattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Raydon, Layham & Holton St Mary

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380

Send editorial copy to: hadleigh@intouchnews.co.uk

Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

Advertising Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380

Distribution Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380

Printing Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk

01473 400379 Disclaimer:

The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. © In Touch with Hadleigh is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

In Touch with Hadleigh

We also publish In Touch with...

•B eyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •B ramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham •C apel St Mary •B arham, Claydon, Henley & Whitton •B elstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook •D edham, East Bergholt, Flatford & Stratford St Mary •B aylham, Gt & Lt Blakenham & Nettlestead • I pswich East •K esgrave & Rushmere St Andrew •B rantham, Lawford, Manningtree & Mistley •M artlesham Heath & Old Martlesham •N eedham Market & The Creetings •C helmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone •B urstall & Sproughton •S towmarket & Stowupland • Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin, Westerfield & Witnesham •M elton & Woodbridge

In Touch with...

JANUARY DEADLINE

11 DECEMBER 2018 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

NEWS the Arthur Gaell for Apprenticing Foundation We are delighted to be able to say that we were able to make grants to two deserving applicants in October, one who is serving an apprenticeship at an estate agency in Hadleigh and one who is an apprentice artworker.

We are hugely grateful to the Mayor of Hadleigh, Councillor Peter Matthews, who has chosen the Arthur Gaell for Apprenticing Foundation as one of his charities to benefit from his fundraising while he is in office. This was completely unexpected and so completely wonderful. Thank you Peter.

Our main criteria, as laid down by the founder of this charity way back in the mists of the 17th century, is that grants will only be made to those living within the IP7 postcode. Their apprenticeship can be anywhere, so long as they live in IP7.

Many people appear to think the IP7 postcode is limited to Hadleigh so we would like to change this perception and invite applicants from: Aldham & Aldam Tye, Ash Street, Bacon’s Green, Bildeston, Bird Street, Brettenham, Chelsworth, Cobblers Corner, Cook’s Green, Cross Green, Drakestone Green, Elmsett, Great Bricett, Greenstreet Green, Hadleigh, Hadleigh Heath, Hitcham, Kersey, Kersey Tye, Kersey Upland, Kettlebaston, Layham, Lower & Upper, Lindsey, Lindsey Tye, Milden, Monks Eleigh, Monks Eleigh Tye, Naughton, Nedging, Nedging Tye, Oaks Tye, Raydon & Lower Raydon, Rose Green, Semer, Shelley, Stackyard Green, Swingleton Green, The Woodlands, Water Run, Wattisham, Wattisham Airfield, Wattisham Stone, Whatfield, Wicker Street Green, William’s Green, Wolves Wood.

So anyone who is looking to start employment or undertake further training while you are in employment, and would appreciate some assistance with outfits, clothing, tools, instruments and books, just let me know and I will send you an application form. It’s that simple.

We are heading inexorably towards Christmas and the New Year so why not encourage someone you know to give themselves a present and get some assistance from us.

Have a very happy festive season. Our next meeting is in January and we look forward to hearing from you.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU ?

We are happy to invite applications from anyone who has finished their education and is looking for assistance into an employed apprenticeship. We will also consider ongoing in-employment training. You must be resident in the IP7 postcode area (see above).

Application forms can be obtained from: jessicanevard@btinternet.com / 01473 822671 All applications will be discussed by the trustees at their quarterly meetings (January, April, July and October) and all applicants will be informed of the trustees’ decision at the earliest opportunity following the relevant meeting.

HOW CAN YOU HELP US ?

We are a very small charity and are happy to remain so. However, if we are to help apprentices and those continuing their training, we also need support. We are not currently looking to undertake any formal fundraising (we simply do not have the time or manpower), but if any businesses or charitable benefactors in the IP7 postcode would consider offering us any form of funding, we would love to have a conversation with you.

Again, please contact Jess Janas at: jessicanevard@btinternet.com / 01473 822671 If you have any questions at all do, please, get in touch.The trustees thank you for your interest so far and hope to talk further with you.

Jessica Janas (Chair), Brian Lazenby, Richard Whiting, Richard Finch and Matt Paisley

3

NEWS PLANS SUBMITTED FOR FUTURE OF FORMER BABERGH OFFICES Babergh District Council have submitted Planning Applications for 78 new homes in Hadleigh, with proposals to develop both the former council offices on Corks Lane and the former care home at Angel Court.

The Planning Applications, validated and available on the council’s Planning Pages website, propose to build 53 dwellings on the site of the former Corks Lane offices, with an additional four homes proposed just across the River Brett at Bridge House, along with 21 flats at the former Angel Court site.

Bridge House

Corks Lane 3D view

Visual

Visual

The five listed buildings on the Corks Lane site will be repaired, refurbished and converted into residential accommodation to retain their distinctive presence on the site. In addition the office pavilions, constructed in the 1970s, will be converted into apartments rather than demolished, maintaining the backdrop to Hadleigh Cricket Ground. These proposals have been drawn up in consultation with heritage consultants to ensure the proposals cause the least possible harm to the buildings.

While the former car park and Bridge House site across the river could include: 2 four bedroom houses 2 five bedroom houses

The open space immediately north of the River Brett, which forms a popular route for walkers, will also be retained as far as possible and continue to be publicly accessible. The plans include both maintaining as many of the existing trees on the site as possible, with replanting proposed to ensure there is no net-loss of trees.

The proposals for the Angel Court site, on Angle Street in the town centre, would see 21 flats built, all of which would be affordable housing. The flats would include: 7 one bedroom apartments for affordable rent 2 two bedroom apartments for affordable rent 8 one bedroom apartments for affordable home ownership 4 two bedroom apartments for affordable home ownership

Vehicles accessing the Corks Lane site will continue to use Corks Lane, while those visiting the Bridge House site will use the current entrance route to the car park, meaning future use of the site will be via the same routes that were used by Babergh staff when the offices were operational.

Under the plans submitted, in total the former Corks Lane site will offer: 20 one bedroom apartments 19 two bedroom apartments 8 three bedroom apartments 1 four bedroom apartment 3 three bedroom houses 2 four bedroom houses

4

The proposals were drawn up by Purcell Architects following public consultation earlier this year.

Councillor Frank Lawrenson, Babergh District Council Cabinet Member for Assets and Investments, said: “Hadleigh is a beautiful town in a stunning part of our countryside, and everyone agrees that leaving sites empty in the long term does the town a disservice. By bringing both the former office site in Corks Lane and the former care home site at Angel Court back into use, these proposals will help Hadleigh continue to be the thriving market town we all know, while also helping meet the real housing need there is in the town.”

The proposals will now be considered by Babergh District Council’s Planning Officers before going to Babergh’s Planning Committee in the New Year.

In Touch with Hadleigh

Babergh District Council Waste and Recycling

Christmas & New Year Bin Collection Schedule 2018-2019

Please ensure your bins are presented by 6.30am on the day of collection

Refuse

Recycling

Refuse

Usual Collection

Monday 24th December Tuesday 25th December Wednesday 26th December Thursday 27th December Friday 28th December Monday 31st December Tuesday 1st January Wednesday 2nd January Thursday 3rd January Friday 4th January Monday 7th January Tuesday 8th January Wednesday 9th January Thursday 10th January Friday 11th January

Revised Collection Monday 24th December Thursday 27th December Friday 28th December Saturday 29th December Monday 31st December Wednesday 2nd January Thursday 3rd January Friday 4th January Saturday 5th January Monday 7th January Tuesday 8th January Wednesday 9th January Thursday 10th January Friday 11th January Saturday 12th January

Change

None 2 days later 2 days later 2 days later 3 days later 2 days later 2 days later 2 days later 2 days later 3 days later 1 day later 1 day later 1 day later 1 day later 1 day later

There will be no brown bin collections over Christmas and New Year (between 24th December and 4th January) Please refer to brown bin collection calendars available on: www.babergh.gov.uk for details.

From Monday 14th January 2019 normal waste and recycling collections resume.

Waste Services: 0300 1234 000 (option 4) email: Recycling@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk

W E

“WE SPECIALISE IN DOUBLE GL A ZING REPAIRS, CALL FOR YOUR FREE CHECK UP”

ER TT BE NE IR YO E PA AN ER RE AN TH T TH OU

Mr Misty ‘The Window Doctor’ is a family run business that prides itself in exceptional customer care.

We promise easy service from start to finish.

DOES YOUR DOUBLE GLAZING STEAM UP? WE REPLACE JUST THE GLASS AND NOT THE FRAMES AT A FRACTION OF THE COST FOR NEW WINDOWS.

FAQs SYMTOM: I HAVE GAPS IN OR AROUND MY WINDOWS AND IT IS CAUSING A DRAUGHT. DIAGNOSIS & SOLUTION : THIS COULD BE THE HINGES WHICH CAN BE REPLACED OR THE FRAME HAS A GAP AROUND THE EDGE WHICH CAN BE RE-SEALED. SYMPTOM : I FIND IT HARD TO LOCK MY DOOR OR WINDOW.

PROBLEMS WE SOLVE

ELIMINATE WINDOW CONDENSATION BROKEN WINDOW PARTS BROKEN GL ASS SECONDARY GL A ZING TO BLOCK OUT NOISE LOCKS

DIAGNOSIS & SOLUTION : THIS COULD BE A NUMBER OF PROBLEMS AND COULD BE AS SIMPLE AS A SMALL ADJUSTMENT TO YOUR HINGES.

FAULT Y HINGES DRAUGHTY WINDOWS

FREE PHONE : 0800 25 45 111 FOR YOUR FREE CHECKUP

WWW.MRMISTY.CO.UK

In Touch with Hadleigh

5

NEWS BABERGH TAKES LEAD IN SIGNING MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGE

HADLEIGH BOXFORD PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP (PPG)

Following a decision by councilors, Babergh will become the first district or borough council in Suffolk to sign the Local Councils’ Mental Health Challenge.

Going away for Christmas or relatives visiting? Students coming home for the festivities? Before all the bags are packed, please make sure you and your guests check your prescription medication and some just-in-case medications so you can chill out and enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.

Councillor Luke Cresswell put the motion to the meeting of Babergh’s Council on Tuesday, October 23, calling upon the council to sign the challenge and appoint both a member champion and identify a member of staff within the council to act as lead officer for mental health.

Following an amendment, proposed by Babergh Leader Councillor John Ward and supported by Councillor Cresswell, that committed the council to appoint not one but two members of staff to act as lead officers, one for internal work with Babergh staff and one for work with communities in the district, the motion was passed unanimously.

The Local Councils’ Mental Health Challenge aims to encourage local authorities to take a proactive approach to this critical issue and work to promote wellbeing and mental health in their districts.

The member champion will be appointed shortly and their details will be available on the Mental Health Challenge website.

Councillor Luke Cresswell, who proposed the motion, said: “I am delighted that this important issue received cross-party support and I hope we can build on this in the future. Babergh is taking the lead in Suffolk in signing up to this challenge and I hope to see other councils follow our lead: every council that signs up is another district that is prioritising mental health in their communities.”

The Local Authorities’ Mental Health Challenge is run by the Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Foundation, AMHP, Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, Royal College of Psychiatrists and YoungMinds.

We’re not asking you to prepare for every illness imaginable, just a small bag with the most necessary pills and medicine. After all, nobody wants to be taken ill during the festive season. It might be easy enough to pick up a domestic remedy over the counter, but some medicines may be limited to prescription only. The same goes for allergy meds and asthma remedies; bring them with you!

If you need to travel with your prescription medication, use a pill organiser.

Keeping the medicine you need well stocked and at the ready means you won’t have to interrupt your celebrations with a trip to the doctor or the pharmacy.

Could it be lonely this Christmas?

Loneliness is a reality for too many people today. It can affect anyone of any age and background. Across our communities there are people who can go for days, weeks or even a month without seeing friends or family members.

Although estimates for the number of older people who spend Christmas alone can vary – in Hadleigh we estimate 1,300 over-65s face the prospect of Christmas alone – research and anecdotal evidence is clear that Christmas is a particularly painful time for anyone, young or old, who experiences loneliness throughout the year.

This Christmas we want to change that, but we need you. We’ve come up with a few simple things you can do to help tackle loneliness, and make everyone feel more connected at Christmas.

The Christmas Present Trust. If you know of someone in the community who cannot be with family or friends on Christmas Day call 01473 829246 to arrange an invitation to Christmas Dinner.

Take the time to talk with an older person. You could be out shopping, at the pub or out for a walk. But just say a simple hello and it could make a difference to someone who’s lonely.

Take the time to call the friends and family that you won’t see this Christmas.

A ten-minute phone call can have a big impact.

Deliver a Christmas card to your neighbour and stop for a chat. Start a conversation and make a connection.

Share a mince pie moment by baking or buying some mince pies and sharing with your friends and neighbours.

Spare chair at your table? Know a neighbour who might be alone? Invite them to join you for Christmas dinner.

Hosting a Christmas party? If there’s anyone in your community who might be alone, send them an invite. The more the merrier!

HELPFUL NUMBERS Age UK: 0800 169 6565 The Silver Line: 0800 470 8090 The Mix: 0808 808 4994 Merry Christmas to all from the members of the Hadleigh & Boxford PPG.

PHOENIX BRASS CHRISTMAS CONCERT Saturday, December 8, 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Raydon In aid of Church Funds Tickets including wine and light supper £10; available from: 01473 310320

6

In Touch with Hadleigh

advertorial

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement. Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter.

A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed

double glazing? If you act now you can avoid these problems.

Now, you may think you need to replace the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution… Just replace the glass!!

If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118.

We will send out our highly

experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.

Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Andy Kerridge and he services the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, East Bergholt, Capel St Mary Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas.

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

FREE YOUR FINANCES WITH EQUITY RELEASE? Our local team has over 60 year’s combined experience in equity release matters. Unlike many national equity release firms, we have full in house financial planning capability. All our staff are based at our office in central Ipswich enabling us to fully support you through the whole process from initial consultation (always at our expense), through a thorough viability assessment and then application and processing to a successful completion.

Our experienced personal injury lawyers handle accident claims arising out of incidents at work, home, on the roads, on holiday or in a public place in the UK or abroad.

You will receive professional dedicated support throughout every part of your claim to help you recover the damages that you deserve.

Contact us 01473 232121 enquiry@prettys.co.uk

www.prettys.co.uk

Williams Farrall Woodward Priority House, 8 Turret Lane, Ipswich IP4 1DL 01473 231644 equityrelease@wfw.co.uk • Cash or Income from an Equity Release scheme could restrict the borrowers’ eligibility for State Benefits.

• Equity released will reduce the value of the estate and could leave nothing to pass on as an inheritance.

• Home Reversion plans and Lifetime Mortgages are complex products. To understand the features and risk, please ask for a personalised illustration.

• Williams Farrall Woodward is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority – FCA 175614.

7

In Touch with Hadleigh

PR534 Personal Injury Advert (InTouch) v3.indd 2

09/05/2018 16:33

NEWS REPORT TO PARISHES, MID-SAMFORD WARD: NOVEMBER 2018 BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR SUE CARPENDALE Question and Answer Sessions The council leader and deputy will be in Capel St Mary Library on Saturday, December 17 from 10am-noon to meet local residents.

New Housing Strategy 2019-2024 Consultations Sitting alongside the emerging Local Plan – adoption of which could now be as far away as spring 2020 – are two new strategies for housing, one of which will try to reduce and prevent homelessness. They are joint documents with Mid Suffolk. The ‘vision’ is for residents to be able to live in affordable, high quality homes that enable people to build settled, safe and healthy lives in sustainable and thriving communities.

There is a strong link between housing provision and the Joint Local Plan (JLP.) We don’t yet know which sites will be allocated or where, but it is likely that the A12 and A14 corridors will be significant targets.

Babergh must now deliver 420 completed new homes per year, 73 of which should be ‘affordable’. Its best performance to date is well short of that, despite the thousands of permissions already granted.

Government has changed its definition of affordable in its revised NPPF and now includes homes for purchase and tenures other than social rent. Between 2014 and 2036, there will also be a need for an additional 1,273 private rented homes and 1,125 households requiring sheltered housing (106 of them ‘enhanced’ sheltered).

The population in our districts is expected to increase by 16,600 by 2036 (from 2018) with the number of jobs to rise by 10,090. By then, a third

of the population in this area will be over 65. Some residents worry that their present homes will not be suitable for them in ten years’ time. As the population ages, there will be different demands on services and facilities, especially housing, transport, medical and social care.

Sixty-nine per cent of Babergh’s population live in rural areas.

House prices remain high at 10 to 11 times the level of average wages, making parts of the district unaffordable for many to buy. This means an increased demand for affordable home options. The lack of affordable new homes for local people in villages causes out-migration of young people.

The Housing Strategy therefore sets out nine key aims. In essence they are to ensure: provision of homes which are affordable for local people and the local economy; a wide and varied choice of good quality, sustainable homes of different sizes, types and tenures; prevention of homelessness and rough sleeping; a council which is an effective social landlord; homes in sustainable environments with jobs and community facilities, green space, transport links and infrastructure; best use is made of the private rented sector; communities are vibrant and well connected; residents are able to live healthily, safely and as independently as possible; strong relationships are built between the council, residents, developers and partners to deliver housing, infrastructure and services appropriately. The consultation closes on 7 December 2018. sue.carpendale@babergh.gov.uk

BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR FENELLA SWAN Homes and Homelessness Reduction Strategy Consultation Launched Babergh and Mid Suffolk district councils have developed a draft Homes Strategy covering the period 2019-24. It lays out how the councils aim to increase the number of new homes being delivered in their districts.

This strategy also aims to increase housing options for older households and those requiring accessible homes and to ensure the existing housing stock is fit for 21st century living.

The councils have also worked together on a Homelessness Reduction Strategy, covering the same period, which aims to reduce homelessness in both districts and support the most vulnerable Babergh and Mid Suffolk residents in finding and sustaining a home.

These draft documents, including priorities for action, have been developed with and informed by the views of a wide range of partners at consultation events held earlier this year. These have helped to shape and inform the priorities in the draft strategies, based on our understanding of local, current and future housing market challenges.

Both strategies are now open for public consultation, which runs for six weeks, closing at noon on Friday, December 7.

Information, including how to take part, is available at: www.babergh.gov.uk/housing/homes-strategy The strategies will be amended in light of the feedback received, before being taken to the Full Councils of both Babergh and Mid Suffolk in February 2019.

8

Strategic Property and Land Investment Fund At the council meeting in October, Babergh District Council members voted to establish a Strategic Property and Land Investment Fund of £3million to be funded from borrowing as required. This is to enable the council to act immediately when opportunities are available for strategic purchases. The allocation of this dedicated fund will provide the council with the opportunity to react and secure strategic properties and land within the district.

The ability to act quickly with authority is particularly important when properties are sold by auction or by way of other restricted timescale methods such as best bids with a set completion date. For example, if a key piece of property within a regeneration area were to be listed for sale at auction, the council would need the ability to act quickly to acquire it. Failure to do so could result in a lengthy and costly compulsory purchase order process to enable the regeneration to come forward, or alternatively would result in the inability to deliver the proposed regeneration to the detriment of the wider community.

Some other councils have also recently adopted this process and following benchmarking with similar councils, £3million was agreed as the most appropriate amount to allocate to this type of fund. A review will be carried out after the first year to measure the success of the fund and enable the funding allocation to be reviewed to ensure it is appropriate moving forward. fenella.swan@babergh.gov.uk

In Touch with Hadleigh

In Touch with Hadleigh

9

EST.1881

REEMAN DANSIE Auctioneers & Valuers

We Welcome Consignments For 2019

Please call one of our experts to arrange a valuation - Tel. 01206 754754 8 Wyncolls Road, Severalls Business Park, Colchester, Essex CO4 9HU Tel : 01206 754754 Fax : 01206 754750 Email : auction@reemandansie.com Web : www.reemandansie.com

10

In Touch with Hadleigh

OUT & ABOUT HADLEIGH COMMUNITY CHOIR Hadleigh Community Choir presents a Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 8 at 7.30pm in the United Reformed Church, Market Place, Hadleigh IP7 5DL. Come and help us celebrate the festive season with a selection of Christmas songs old and new, plus other inspiring pieces to vary the mood.

Tickets (£8 including refreshments / children under 12 free) are available from Keith Avis and The Idler or phone John (01473 823791) or Stella (01473 823477).

Please join us at the afterglow for drinks and nibbles

SING OUT SATURDAYS – SING YOURSELF FREE IN 2019!

LIBRARY LIFE: OPEN (NEARLY) ALL HOURS It’s that time of year again to send good cheer and happy wishes to all (not that we shouldn’t be doing that all the other months!). But there is something about Christmas which gives us the imperative to take the time and make a bit more of an effort to get in touch with those we care about.

At the library, it is lovely to chat to people and hear how their Christmas plans are taking shape. Many are busy writing and sending cards to those they don’t see often, there are preparations being made for visits both near and far and food arrangements are already in the planning!

But, this season can also be a very lonely time for some; perhaps missing loved ones who are no longer around, or maybe knowing very few people to speak to daily. At your local library, everyone is welcome. Whether it’s to browse a selection of books to borrow to keep you busy over the holiday, to rent a DVD to share with the family or enjoy on your own, to use the computers to get in touch with friends and family far away, or just to be in the warm, near people and to spend a little time reading the newspaper, we enjoy seeing each-and-every one of you.

Hadleigh Library is closed on Tuesday, December 25 and Wednesday, December 26 and open as usual from Thursday 27. We will be closed on Tuesday, January 1.

Have you always wanted to sing, but never got around to it? Do you love to sing but want to do more? Are you fed up with formal choirs and too much commitment? Do you want to sing yourself free and have fun?

Help is at hand!

Singing leader extraordinaire Chris Rowbury runs regular singing gettogethers in Hadleigh. These fun and friendly mornings of song are open to anyone who wants to sing. They take place every third Saturday of the month.

Sing Out Saturdays run from 10.30am to 1pm at the Ansell Community Centre, Market Place, Hadleigh IP7 5DL. The first session of 2019 is on Saturday, January 19. Simply turn up on the day – no commitment needed and you don’t have to come every month. Sessions cost only £9 per person including refreshments.

Everyone is welcome and no experience is necessary as Chris teaches all songs by ear. Every month there are new faces and new songs. You can hear recordings of the kind of songs covered at www.singoutsaturdays.co.uk and you can also find full venue details and future dates there.

Sing Out Saturdays are open to all: men and women, experienced singers and complete beginners alike. No musical experience is necessary and there are no auditions or solos. Chris will soon have you singing in beautiful harmony even if you think you can’t ‘sing’.

Our free drop-in craft session for children will be on Sunday, December 23 from 10.30am-2.30pm as usual.

If you haven’t yet joined the library, perhaps that can be your Christmas present to yourself. It’s free to join and without spending a penny you have access to thousands of books, audio books, e-books, newspapers and magazines and our computers. But more than that, you can become part of the community there, which is probably the best present of all. www.jenny-may.com

A CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS Saturday, December 15, 6.30pm at St Mary’s Church, Hadleigh Join Hadleigh Choral Society for traditional carols (with some for the audience to join in), readings and Christmas songs by Serendipity.

The concert is free, but there will be a retiring collection in aid of the Ansell Memories Cafe run weekly for people living with dementia and their carers.

Based in Woodbridge, Chris Rowbury has 30 years’ experience of teaching songs. He is a patient, charismatic teacher with a relaxed style laced with plenty of humour. He will get you singing in wonderful harmony in a matter of minutes.

Can’t commit to a weekly choir? Sing Out Saturdays are the ideal solution.

And it’s good for you too. Recent research has shown that singing in a group has many health and social benefits.

Find out more at www.singoutsaturdays.co.uk or contact Chris at: chris@singoutsaturdays.co.uk / 01394 610486

DEMENTIA Together Call Free 08081 688 000 email: SRYC. DementiaTogether@nhs.net visit: www.dementia-together.com In Touch with Hadleigh

11

12

In Touch with Hadleigh

OUT & ABOUT The Friends of St Mary’s Church, Hadleigh

ANNUAL MEETING Saturday, December 8 at 5pm Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served

Margaret will talk about the research and preparation for her book, including information (from the documents) on the church in the medieval period. She will also sign copies of her book.

VILLAGE LINK CLUB Wednesday, December 12, 10am at Tattingstone Village Hall: Life as a Tudor Housekeeper Instead of our usual raffle, please bring a small wrapped present if you would like to take part in our tombola. Also bring a small plate of food to share with tea/coffee after the talk.

The club aims to bring communities together and we have over the years attracted members from many villages, men and women of various ages. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month from 10am-noon. I would like to welcome back any former members and to see new members from all local villages, either as visitors or members in readiness for our 25th anniversary celebration in 2019.

Chairman Linda Evans: 01473 311262

SUFFOLK BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT (SBS)

ROTARY CLUB OF HADLEIGH Following World Polio Day, members of the Rotary Club of Hadleigh planted 1,000 purple for polio crocus corms outside Partridges. We are looking forward to seeing the flowers in the spring; watch out for them and know that they represent the endeavours of Rotary to raise awareness of eliminating polio.

November was a busy month for The Rotary Club of Hadleigh. On November 2 our president and our secretary attended the Chamber of Commerce to listen to MP James Cartlidge discuss with local businesspeople how to improve industry in and around Hadleigh. Entrepreneurs could benefit from joining Rotary by exchanging ideas with likeminded Rotarians at our regular meetings.

On November 5 we also attended the Hadleigh Steering Group where we watched the latest video on Health and Wellbeing in Hadleigh. It was amazing to see just how much good work the Steering Group does. The Rotary moto of ‘Service above Self was evident here; the philosophy of unselfish volunteer service was seen throughout the meeting.

November 11 was Remembrance Sunday and the parade through Hadleigh High Street was, as usual, brilliantly organised by the Royal British Legion.

There was a short ceremony at the war memorial where The Rotary Club of Hadleigh was able to lay a wreath alongside many others.

David Simpson, our district governor, visited us on November 13 and talked of the benefits of Rotary and encouraged us to continue to recruit new members. It was also a pleasure to welcome Hazel Cooley and introduce her to our club and to Rotary.

Preparations are now underway for Christmas, our Santa’s Sleigh is being smartened up and Rotarian David Stokes is arranging for Santa to be available for the children through some of the streets of Hadleigh and outside Morrison’s.

The Rotary Club of Hadleigh meets twice a month at lunchtimes in The George, High Street, Hadleigh and if you would like the opportunity to serve your local community and enjoy good company you would be most welcome to attend a meeting to find out what we do.

For more information please contact Linda Humphries: 07905 061399

‘Easing loss through group support’ Recently bereaved or experiencing a delayed reaction?

Are you in need of help and support?

Why not join a small group sharing bereavement issues?

Groups are led by an experienced facilitator creating a warm, safe environment in which to explore the many aspects of loss.

Groups are held in Hadleigh (afternoon) and Capel S Mary (evening) and are free to Suffolk residents For more details or to reserve a place contact Patrick or Margaret: sbsg246@gmail.com / 07469 201337 / 01206 299832 www.suffolkbereavement.org.uk

HADLEIGH & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB After an extremely successful and eventful year for the club, we end with our traditional end of season celebration – the Christmas Quiz on Monday, December 10. We have new question setters for 2018 so we are all looking forward to the challenge! As well as the quiz we shall also be enjoying drinks and a buffet supper and awarding the annual prize to the overall champion of the monthly competitions.

We are starting the evening at Hadleigh Town Hall at 7.30pm. Our first meeting of 2019 is on Monday, January 14 (more details next month), so until then, Merry Christmas.

I am pleased to say the club now has an email address so if you want to get in touch just type: hadleighgardenclub@gmail.com

In Touch with Hadleigh

STOUR VALLEY U3A Our meeting on November 14 featured Davis Simmonds, a National Trust speaker and volunteer, introducing The Coast of East Anglia. The East Anglian coast is full of contrasts and has much beauty, history and wildlife. His presentation focused on National Trust coastal properties in Essex and Suffolk.

We don’t have a speaker meeting in December, but hold our popular Christmas Lunch, this time at the Best Western Hotel in Copdock on Wednesday, December 5. This is always a very popular event so early booking is advised.

On Wednesday, January 9 Sally Dearman will present Woman Can Fly. This is the story of one women’s journey from jumping out of a landing window, then out of planes, to becoming a civil pilot and the first women through the RAF’s fast-jet flying trains system.

Each month The Coffee Grinders meet at The Lambe School, Gaston Street, East Bergholt CO7 6SD from 10am to noon. This meeting especially welcomes new members and gives all members the opportunity to meet the activity group leaders and the committee while enjoying a cup of coffee. The next meeting is on Friday, December 28.

Our main purpose is to encourage lifelong learning for those who are no longer in full time employment and emphasis is always placed on making learning active and fun as well as helping in developing friendships.

For further information please visit www.stourvalleyu3a.org.uk where membership secretary Gillian Gibbs may be contacted.

We meet at Constable Hall, Gandish Road, East Bergholt CO7 6TP at 2.15pm. Annual membership is £12 which entitles members to attend meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, except in December.

13

SCHOOLS ROBIN’S NEWS LAYHAM PLAYGROUP We’ve have had lots of fun taking a closer looks at some of our favourite stories. We have looked at the weather, our environment, colours, shapes and sounds, animals, our families and our homes. Some of our favourite books have been The Bear Hunt, Winnie the Witch, Dear Zoo, Stick Man and The Gruffalo.

We would like to say a big thank you to our friends at St Andrew’s Church who invited the children to have a look at their wonderful Remembrance display. The children discussed how the poppies reminded them of soldiers, and the jobs the soldiers do to help and keep us save.

We look forward to sharing with our friends from St Andrew’s again at our carol service.

If you are interested in seeing Layham Playgroup for yourself and would like to arrange a visit, contact us at: admin@layhamplaygroup.co.uk / 07999 866419 Ladybird Toddler Group takes place every Wednesday morning during term time from 9.30-11am and is open to all children from birth to five years. We have a range of toys and activities ranging from a quiet baby area to role-play, small world, playdough and crafts.

Fu ll, p a rt-tim e a n d s e s s io n a l c a re fo r c h ild re n a g e d 3 m o n th s to 11 ye a rs .

Baby Bears In the Baby Bears room we are continuing to use our unique outdoor sleeping area. On colder days we have been snuggling up in our sleeping bags and cosy blankets. We have chosen to continue through the colder weather to help build up the Baby Bears immune systems and to release stress. We are lucky to naturally fall asleep to the sounds of children playing and the birds singing.

Through the next few weeks our older Bears will be focusing on baking while learning turn taking skills and developing their fine motor movements. Our younger Bears are learning to walk and control their own movements, so lots of time outdoors will be accessible to provide large spaces to develop their gross motor skills.

Toddling Tigers The Tigers have started back at Forest School this term and have been exploring the wonderful autumnal season. They have made ‘leaf snakes’, found a frog, relaxed in the hammock, listened out for birds and used binoculars to try and find them! They have been learning new boundaries and responding to the sound of Debbie Duck’s whistle. The Tigers have also enjoyed talking about the colours of the leaves and covering Kimberley with them! The Tigers found hidden puppets and used them to create stories by giving them names and telling us what happens next.

Gruffalos This month is flying away in a flurry of fireworks! We celebrated Bonfire Night with hotdogs around the campfire at Forest School. This led on to exploring the festival of Diwali. Diwali, The Festival of Lights, provides a great opportunity to explore different cultures and celebrations. We created Rangoli patterns and made lanterns and Diwali sweets too.

The children asked lots of very thoughtful questions about the Diwali celebrations we watched on the computer.

We are continuing to promote curiosity and intrigue in the room.

Another area we have introduced is a self-service painting station.

The children have access to the three prime colours which are in pump dispensers. They take a jam jar lid and put in the paint required and a re able to mix and experiment with the paint to creating the shades.

They then select the size of paintbrush they wish to use and the paper of their choosing. This simple act of painting is promoting independence, a ‘can do’ attitude, problem solving and decision making, all before they even get creative with the paint! All these skills are valuable life skills that will hopefully be carried with them throughout their time as Gruffalos. As you read this we are excitedly preparing for Christmas and, of course, our nativity.

If you would like further information about Robin’s Childcare please contact us on 01473 310767 and we will be more than happy to help.

Fo re s t S c h o o l

Ofs te d Re g is te re d

Gra n t

Fu n d in g Te le p h o n e : 01473 310767 Ag e 2, 3 a n d in fo @ro b in s c h ild c a re .c o .u k 4 ye a rs www.ro b in s c h ild c a re .c o .u k Th e S t r e e t , C a p e l S t Ma r y 30 Ho u rs Ip s w i c h , S u f f o l k Gra n t IP 9 2 E G Fu n d in g

14

In Touch with Hadleigh

LoveChristmas your stay.

The Marquis.

Christmas Day 6 course set menu £130.00 per person

Christmas Parties Join us during November & December to celebrate the festive season with family, colleagues and friends.

4 course set menu £38.00 per person

New Year’s Eve Our New Year’s Eve à la carte menu will include a number of special dishes that we will be carving at your table.

Live music in the upper restaurant and fireworks at midnight.

Burns’ Night

Come along with friends and enjoy a traditional Burns’ Night supper Friday 25th January 2019

5 course set menu £60.00 per person

Tel: +44 (0)1473 377 977 Email: info@themarquissuffolk.co.uk www.themarquissuffolk.co.uk In Touch with Hadleigh 19040 Marquis - In touch mag Dec2018.indd

1

15

27/11/2018 14:30

16

In Touch with Hadleigh

SPORT HADLEIGH UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB Annual Firework Display We were blessed by fine weather for our annual firework display on November 2. Thanks go to all the volunteers who helped set up on the day and worked hard on the night to make sure things ran smoothly. But the biggest thanks go to the 1,200 spectators who turned out on the night to make the night a success. We hope to do it all again on November 1 this year.

First Team News October 23 saw us overcome Brightlingsea Regent Res in the League Cup and we have been drawn away to Long Melford on November 21 (more on this next month). The next match saw us suffer a 4-1 defeat at home to Gorleston, but we had better luck with our trip to Norfolk to play Norwich Utd as we battled hard to bring home all the points winning 2-1. Our next match on November 10 saw us host league leaders Histon, who ran out 4-0 winners on the day. Tuesday 13 saw us host Bury Town who play in the Bostik North League; this was a Suffolk Premier Cup match. Bury arrived thinking it was a case of “we just turn up and the game is ours”. Wrong! We took the game to Bury from the start, taking the lead on 15 minutes when Kieran Turner fired in an angled shot. Bury pressed for the equaliser, but we created plenty of chances, scoring again just on half time when Romario Dunne fired in a powerful free kick over the defensive wall and past the static Bury keeper.

Romario Dunne scored our third goal with another wonder strike as he lobbed the ball in over the static keeper with the ball going in off the underside of the bar. Bury pulled a goal back with 15 minutes to go, but it proved too little too late as we won 3-1 and secured a place in the quarter-finals to be played in the New Year. On the player front, Kane Munday, who joined on loan from AFC Sudbury, has returned to his home club as his loan spell has ended Reserve Team News Four matches played and four wins. The first was a 4-1 home win against Haverhill Rovers Res, followed by a trip to the Essex Sunshine Coast to play Holland FC, returning with a 2-1 victory. This was followed by a short trip to Whitton Utd Res, returning again with a 2-1 victory. November 10 saw them in Cup action as they travelled to Rushmere to play Westerfield Utd Res in the second round of the Suffolk Senior Res Cup. This, by all accounts, was a tough match, but we ran out winners (3-2) thanks to a Shane Murphy hat-trick. We now meet Trimley Red Devils Res in the next round on February 16. In player news, we are sorry to see Garry Burdett leave as he wishes to try his hand back at a higher level and we wish him well.

Under-18 News Three matches played with one win, one draw and one loss, plus one postponed. October 24 saw us host Stowmarket Town. This match saw fast and furious play throughout as both teams went all out for the win, but it was Stowmarket who clinched the win with a late goal to win 3-2. Our scheduled match on November 1 at Felixstowe fell foul to the weather as we suffered heavy rain all day. On November 7 we hosted a powerful Walshamle-Willows side (one of the teams looking to win the league). This match was

reminiscent of the Stowmarket match, 0-0 at half time, but Walsham took the lead on 56 minutes. We battled back with Curtis Harvey levelling on 71 minutes and Jaryd Challis putting us ahead on 80 minutes, leading to a tense last ten minutes as Walsham looked to level. We hung on to take the points and remain top. November 15 saw the return league fixture at Walsham.

This time the honours were even with a 2-2 final score and a splendid all-round team performance by the Hadleigh players with Ryan Chidlow and Jaryd Challis our scorers. This draw was not enough to hold on to top spot (at time of these notes) as other results saw us drop to third spot with matches in hand.

Veterans News The Veterans had a rest in November to recover their fitness, but are back in action in December.

FORTHCOMING MATCHES First Team December 1: Hadleigh v Norwich Utd December 8: Whitton Utd v Hadleigh Utd December 15: Hadleigh V Haverhill Rovers December 22: Kirkley & Pakefield v Hadleigh December 26: Hadleigh v Stowmarket Tn (Boxing Day 11am KO) December 29: Long Melford v Hadleigh January 5: Gt Yarmouth Tn v Hadleigh Reserves December 1: Cornard Utd v Hadleigh Res December 8: Hadleigh v Whitton Res December 15: Stowmarket v Hadleigh Res December 22: Hadleigh v Wivenhoe Tn Res Under 18s (midweek matches) December 5: Hadleigh v Ipswich Wanderers December 13: Needham Market v Hadleigh Veterans (Sunday matches) December 2: Hadleigh v Diss Heywood December 16: Kedington v Hadleigh New Year’s Eve Family Disco The club have a Family Disco taking place on New Year’s Eve from 7-30pm1am. Tickets (£6 / under 16s £2) are available from Donna Ramsey on: 07435 396427 Finally, Hadleigh United wishes everyone a Happy Christmas and New Year.

Millfielder www.hadleigh-utd.co.uk Facebook: Hadleigh United Football Club-Official

SUFFOLK ROCKETS NETBALL CLUB At the beginning of November our five junior teams started their season in the Colchester League. So far we have played three-week’s worth of games and have had a ‘mixed bag’ with some wins and some loses. Our teenies team, Celestial Rockets, are doing amazingly well considering many of the girls in this team have only been playing netball since September. Our teams consist of Celestial Rockets (School Years 5, 6 7), Cosmic Rockets (School Years 7 and 8), Apollo Rockets (School Years 7 and 8), Saturn Rockets (School Year 8), and Galaxy Rockets (School Years 9 and 10). We have had an abundance of Year 7 and 8 girls this season, which is fantastic as this is the age most girls join their school netball teams.

On November 3 we entered an U14 team into the National Clubs competition.

This competition is a high standard of play and sees the biggest clubs in Suffolk compete to go through to the regional round. Our girls played fantastically and had good wins over Christchurch and Cockfield. The girls came fourth out of six teams. Although we didn’t go through to the next round, the players did amazing in their first ever National Clubs and we are so proud of them.

Halloween fell on our training night, but that didn’t stop us having our own ‘spooky’ fun! We ran a competition for the best Halloween training outfit and, as per usual, the adults went all out, although one outfit had to be ‘deflated’

In Touch with Hadleigh

before our match play! This is why we have so much fun at Rockets. It’s not just about Netball, but having a laugh and socialising with friends!

We are still looking for a sponsor for either our U12 or U15 teams. Your business would be advertised on our kit and a write-up and a link would be posted on our website. If you would like to enquire further please email the address below. Suffolk Rockets is becoming a huge part of Hadleigh with 58 junior players and 31 adult members. Sponsorship would support us to buy more kit and also equipment for both the junior and adults to use in training.

Thank you to Simarco Worldwide Logistics who have sponsored Apollo Rockets and Saturn Rockets this season, and to The George in Hintlesham for sponsoring our two adult teams to have match bibs.

Head Coach Hayley Greenhill: suffolkrocketsnc@hotmail.com Facebook and Twitter: Suffolk Rockets NC www.suffolkrocketsnetballclub.weebly.com

17

ON THE GRAPEVINE / church news OVER £1,000 OF PRIZES UP FOR GRABS IN LOCAL CHRISTMAS PRIZE DRAW One local family-run hearing care company has announced details of a charity Christmas Prize Draw, giving the local community the chance to win one of twelve prizes with a combined value of over £1,000.

The Hearing Care Centre, which has 26 centres across Suffolk and Norfolk including two locally at Upper Brook Street and Two Rivers Medical Centre in Ipswich, is holding its annual Christmas Draw in aid of deafness charity, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, with the winners being declared on Wednesday, December 19.

The charity delivers expert training for Hearing Dogs which provides invaluable emotional support to their deaf recipient. New found owners gain confidence, independence and companionship.

This year to celebrate their 20th anniversary, The Hearing Care Centre have pledged to raise £20,000 for the charity, with many fundraising initiatives having taken place this year, including quiz nights, a pudding club and a huge drive to collect 20 pence pieces.

The prize draw has received generous support from local businesses including Fred Olsen Travel, Theatre Royal Norwich, Archant and Coes Department Stores.

On offer in the draw is a luxury break at The Swan Hotel in Southwold, a fivecourse tasting menu at Gordon Ramsay’s Maze Restaurant in London, a giant festive hamper, Hotel Chocolat goodies, travel vouchers and more.

Tickets cost only £1 and can be purchased online at www.hearingcare centre.co.uk/draw or in person at the company’s practice at 11 Upper Brook Street, Ipswich.

Come and meet us We are a family of ordinary people who love God and trust Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour. We would be delighted to welcome you to our Church office in George Street and to any of our services, activities, courses and events.

Sunday Services (live streaming) 10.30am: All Age Worship including crèche, teaching and activities for ages three-13 6.30pm: Evening Service Audio recordings of our services are available on our website, YouTube and as podcasts from iTunes.

If you are unsure what Christianity is all about but would like to find out, we regularly run free, friendly and informal Christianity Explored courses.

You will not be asked to read or pray aloud but will be given the opportunity to ask your questions.

Many people have found this course helpful.

Midweek Small Groups We have seven small groups meeting on two evenings (Tuesday and Wednesday) and one that meets Thursday daytime in the Chapel lounge and in homes around Hadleigh and the surrounding area for Bible study, fellowship and prayer.

FREE CAP Money Management CAP Money is a comprehensive yet surprisingly simple money management course that has received national recognition. It lasts three weeks to help you get, and then stay in control of your finances. Proven to be effective for thousands of people.

Baby, toddler, children and youth groups We have two-midweek groups. One, run jointly with our friends from the URC, is for babies and toddlers with their parents or carers and is called The Ark. It meets on Friday mornings from 9.30-11.30am. We also hold a group for young people in School Years 7-9 (Thursdays 7.45-9pm) called 7-Up!

Christmas Winter Wonderland Day Saturday, December 15, 11am-3pm A free event with games, crafts, refreshments and more for everyone Carol Services This year we have three Carol Services Sunday, December 16 at 6.30pm: service with contemporary carols Sunday, December 23 at 6.30pm: traditional Carols by Candlelight Service Sunday, December 23 at 10.30am: Family Nativity Service We encourage children to dress up as a nativity character and become part of the story.

Further Information and where to find us George Street, HadleighIP7 5BE (free parking in nearby public car park on Magdalen Road) Tel: 01473 829602 and speak to Chris. www.hadleighbaptist.org.uk / Twitter: @HadleighBaptist Facebook: HadleighBaptistChurch / YouTube: Hadleigh Baptist Church

18

In Touch with Hadleigh

church news CAPEL & ELMSETT METHODIST CHURCHES BE PREPARED These two words have been etched in my life from the days I was in the Scouting movement. Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout movement, was asked the inevitable question: “Prepared for what?”. His response: “Why, for any old thing!”. He wrote: “you are always in a state of readiness in mind and body to do your duty.”

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

Every week I work to deadlines – the most public is that on a Sunday morning I’ve got to stand up and preach to one of my congregations. I can’t tell them to come back tomorrow when I’m ready. Preparation includes studying the Bible passage, reading around the subject and praying through the message.

I was caught out once when I went to work in Zimbabwe. My family and I have travelled overnight and attended an English speaking service where we warmly welcomed as new missionaries. As I was going to be working in rural areas among the Shona people, I slipped into an afternoon service to experience their worship and observe. When they found out I was a minister I was invited to preach. I wasn’t due to preach for several weeks (language school was my first assignment), and I can’t remember what I preached, but I know I was unprepared. I learnt then that I must always be prepared to share a word from the Lord with people.

So many of my days don’t turn out exactly as scheduled. God surprises me with a person I meet, I have an interruption through a phone call or message that requires a visit, someone shares something of significance. I need to be ready to respond and discover God appointments.

For years the people of Israel had been told that Christ was coming and to look forward to his coming. Prophecies told the place of his birth, that he would be a descendent of King David, the manner of his birth and much more.

Yet when the moment arrived many failed to see it. The people thought they knew how God would work and were unprepared for anything else. It’s as though they had put God in a box. But God cannot be confined to a box. We should live our lives with a sense of expectancy. God is at work in many ways, constantly able to surprise us. Are we ready and willing to be surprised, are we ready to meet him in the lives of people we know. I’m sure most of us will prepare for Christmas with presents, food and drinks. We could easily miss the greatest gift God has prepared for us, a relationship with his Son Jesus Christ, after whom this festival is named.

AT CAPEL METHODIST Home Groups and prayer meetings on various days and times.

Sunday 2

Saturday 8 Sunday 9 Sunday 16

Sunday 23 Christmas Eve Christmas Day Sunday 30

10.30am 6.30pm 3.30pm 10.30am 10.30am 6.30pm 10.30am 7pm 9.30am 10.30am

Worship with Stephen Walker Prayer Messy Church Worship with Tom Boswell All-Age Worship – The story of Christmas Carol Service with Rev Sankey Worship and Communion with Rev Sankey Carols in the Precinct for All Worship with Rev Sankey Worship with Chris Jowett

The Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Capel Methodist apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 AT ELMSETT METHODIST Sunday 2 9.45am

6.30pm Sunday 9 9.45am

3pm Tuesday 11 3.30pm Sunday 16 9.45am

6.30pm Sunday 23 9.45am Christmas Day 10am Sunday 30 9.45am

Worship with Rev Jane Cassidy Circuit Service at Landseer Road, Ipswich Worship with Geoff Wilson / Café Worship United Worship at Salvation Army Hadleigh Messy Church Christmas Nativity Service Village Carol Service at St Peter’s Worship and Communion with Rev Grimshaw Family Celebration with Alicia Holmes Worship with Mr Luke Rokobuli

The Rev Derek Grimshaw, Minister at Elmsett Methodist 01473 805486 / dkgrimshaw@msm.com Lay Pastor Alicia Holmes 01473 831120 / ajnholmes@gmail.com

In Touch with Hadleigh

19

Quality blinds, shutters and awnings from your local Suffolk specialist.

No matter the shape or size of your windows. turnersblinds.co.uk | enquiries@turnersblinds.co.uk

01473 610830 / 01394 272732