In touch news with bramford feb18

In Touch

™© ™©

with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham Volume 8 • Issue No. 4 • FEBRUARY 2018

Image by Ashton Wyss

MMAd_InTouch_Jan2018.ai 1 11/01/2018 14:11:32

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Fall in love this Valentines and find your dream home Ipswich - 01473 396 296

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

www.marksandmann.co.uk

2

In Touch online:

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I simply can’t avoid writing about words and language this month as unusual words and phrases seem to be coming at me from all directions.

I have just spent a week in Ireland where ‘press’ meaning ‘cupboard’ and ‘yoke’ meaning just about everything else, including people (as in “yer man with the féasóg is a right yoke”) are common parlance, but I’ve also just finished a book by Mike Smith from The Waterboys in which he writes about many of the Irish musicians and writers he has worked with. One is a poet from Co Galway called Tomas McKeown who had a habit of running his hand over his bald head and saying “once there used to be waves, now it’s all shore”. How lovely is that?

On my desk I have a word calendar which I received from one of my lovely colleagues. It introduces a new word every day. Today it’s ‘palisade’, but my favourites so far have been ‘algid’ meaning cold and ‘wiseacre’ meaning one who pretends to knowledge or cleverness, otherwise known as a smart aleck. I think we all know a wiseacre or two!

And just last night a wonderful clip about strange words the Irish use popped up on Facebook. ‘Haymes’ is one we all use to describe getting something wrong, as in ‘he made a haymes of it’, particularly used at hurling matches! Another I might use more frequently is ‘banjaxed’ meaning broken or in a bad way, as you might be after a ‘night on the lash’.

‘Me feiner’ literally translates as ‘me myself’. To be called a ‘me feiner’ is the ultimate insult, meaning you have no thought for anyone but yourself, commonly used to describe politicians in Ireland.

I’ll leave you with a wonderful phrase I spotted on a poster at Dublin Airport: Dance as if no one’s watching, sing as if no one’s listening, and live everyday as if it were your last.

In Touch

with Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham

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: bramford@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 Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

We also publish In Touch with...

• NEW Beyton, Drinkstone, Elmswell, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit •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 •C hattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon •M elton & Woodbridge

NEWS DO YOU NEED ASSISTANCE WITH TRANSPORT? BSEVC, a registered charity, provides community transport in the Bramford area for health appointments, shopping, visiting friends and relatives or they can connect you with a local bus service or train for an onward journey.

Vehicles are accessible so are ideal for those who are wheelchair users, but the service is open to everyone who is unable to use public transport. For more information contact BSEVC at bookings@bsevc.co.uk / 01449 614271 or visit: www.bsevc.co.uk

THEFTS FROM CHURCHES There has been a distressing rise in thefts from churches in the last few months. This may mean that our churches are not unlocked as often as we would like them to be. We will always unlock if we know that someone wishes to come in to pray, so please don’t hesitate to contact us just to make sure that the church will be open when you need it to be. You can either email or phone and we will be pleased to help you. If you are near the church and you see anything suspicious please don’t hesitate to let us or the local police know at once.

The Rev Jenny Seggar 01473 748914 / revjseggar@outlook.com

GET ACTIVE AND STAY FIT Now that the Christmas and New Year festivities are over, this is a great time to increase your fitness levels and find a new you for the New Year. Have you been thinking you would like to feel more energetic, regain strength in your muscles and suppleness in your joints? Perhaps you would like to improve your posture and balance and reduce the risk of falls? If you would, there are two local classes to help you get active and stay fit. On Mondays we are at Ascension Hall, Larchcroft Road, Castle Hill from 11am-noon and on Tuesdays at Henley Community Centre from 2-3pm.

The classes are low impact exercise to music with a focus on building stamina, strength and balance. The sessions start with a gentle warm-up, are easy to follow and finish with stretching and relaxation. You may be pleased to know you would not need to get down onto the floor during the classes.

As well as the physical benefits, exercise is known to be a great way to lift mood as our bodies release chemicals into the blood stream which give us the feel-good factor. Research shows that keeping active is crucial in maintaining good memory and our ability to reason as we age.

The classes are run throughout the year on a pay on the day basis. For more information please call Julia on 01473 620511.

This month’s cover image is the first in our ‘My Life in…’ series and was taken by Ashton Wyss on his walk to Bramford Road when the bus to town was unavailable.

In Touch with...

MARCH DEADLINE

10 FEBRUARY 2018 is the final date for both advertising and editorial copy

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

3

NEWS WE ARE LISTENING: HAVE YOUR SAY ON ST MARY’S GATHERINGS HIGH TEA WHETHER TO CREATE A NEW COUNCIL CHRISTMAS PARTY Babergh and Mid Suffolk residents have until Monday, February 5 to submit their comments on draft proposals to create a new council in the heart of Suffolk.

Due to a change in circumstances, it was decided by our most dedicated organiser and support team, to depart from the traditional Christmas lunch and replace it with an afternoon high tea party.

The engagement, which was launched on Monday, December 11, asks residents and businesses in both districts to comment on proposals to dissolve both Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils and form a new, single council to cover the area.

This departure appeared very warmly received as a change and enjoyed by all. Getting this underway with customary professionalism was our resident hand-bell ringing team, namely Margaret Dakin, Barbara Kinsbury, Brenda Ransome and Sue Withell under the direction of Kelvin Dakin. They played a selection of favourite carols which quickly motivated all into the party atmosphere. Their wonderful contribution was very well received and rewarded with much hearty applause.

Responses can be submitted online through a survey, directly via email to one.council@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk or in writing to the councils.

All of the views submitted will help inform a detailed business case, which will be drafted and considered by councillors later in the year. Every response received will be anonymised and attached, in full, to the business case.

An independent telephone survey of 4,000 residents is also being carried out by ComRes. This is a survey of a representative sample of residents in Babergh and Mid Suffolk by age, gender, geography, socio-economic grade and ethnicity. The anonymised results of this survey will be publicly available and will also inform the production of the business case.

Councillor Nick Gowrley, Leader of Mid Suffolk District Council, said: “We in Mid Suffolk have always worked hard to deliver the services our residents need, and with local government funding changing so radically over the coming years we need new and innovative ways to keep doing that. Our residents and businesses know best what support they need, and this is just the opportunity for them to tell us. With only three weeks left it’s time for everyone to take part.”

Councillor John Ward, who became Leader of Babergh District Council in January 2018, said: “There has already been a lot of debate and publicity about these proposals, but much of that has focussed on whether there will be a local referendum. I have resolved that aspect by making clear my commitment to holding a local referendum once a business case is available for residents to consider. This current engagement offers the chance to have your say on the future of public services in our area and what is most important to you. How people respond to this engagement and what they say will shape the future of local government and I encourage everyone to take the time to let us know their thoughts over the next three weeks.”

Following on was the actual tea with a vast choice of food, a warming tipple of Sherry and, of course, no party would be complete without crackers and customary paper hats. It was at this point our most loyal band of helpers stepped in, namely Judy, Sue Mancell, Sue Withell, Kate, Sheila Heath and Rosmary, all with responsibilities for their respective designated tables, ensuring all guests were well nourished before journeying homewards!

After tea, our next guest was Mr Warner, a most talented woodcarver who most kindly brought along a comprehensive selection of his completed work.

Obviously this must have taken up hours of his free time, and I was most impressed with the exhibit shaped like a stalk of wheat, with a mouse climbing up to enjoy a snack. Hopefully at some other date we will be privileged to enjoy further samples of this craftsman’s work.

Final entertainment was provided by Sue Withell at the piano playing a number of requested popular carols which provoked some very hearty singing, and as on previous occasions was much enjoyed. Well done Sue! On behalf of all gathering friends and with great pleasure I extend our most sincere and grateful thanks to all involved in providing us with such an enjoyable day.

Unfortunately, since writing this, very sad news has been received of the untimely passing of one of our regular members, Mrs Daphne Fisher.

We express to her family our most sincere heartfelt condolences in their irreplaceable loss.

Dennis R Page

Additional information, including how to have your say online, is available at: www.babergh.gov.uk/the-council/onecouncil www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/the-council/onecouncil Anyone wishing to respond by post can send their responses to: One Council Engagement, Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road Ipswich IP1 2BX

You’re invited to make an appointment at our Wherstead Park office to discuss:

Powers of Attorney Wills

Probate Court of Protection * We also offer a range of other services

Our out of town Ipswich location is very convenient for parking and has Contact us for an appointment today: excellent disabled access. www.ellisonssolicitors.com enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ 01473 556 900

SATURDAY, MAY 12 The Wheelie Team are making progress with planning for the 2018 event. We want to enhance all the elements and build on our first year’s success.

We do need people to help in all sorts of ways, both as participants and volunteers (planning or on the day volunteers). Please get in touch and register your interest.

Contact Terry if you are an organisation, individual or trader and would like to run your own stall, if you would like to join the Wheelie Team as a volunteer or if you would like to perform on our stage: 07833 089148 / wheelievehiclebookings@aol.com If you have a vehicle (or anything with wheels) you would like to show, contact Andy: wheelievehiclebookings@aol.com / 07833 089148 We will tell you more about our attractions in future bulletins.

Visit us on Facebook: Wheelie Fun Day

Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336

4

In Touch online:

 

BRAMFORD & DISTRICT SOCIAL CLUB 71-73 The Street, Bramford IP8 4DX. Tel: 01473 745198

Thurs 1st Sat 3rd Thurs 8th Sat 10th

QUIZ “BITS AND PIECES” 60s BAND C/W WITH THE DAVE DRAIN BAND VALENTINE DINNER DANCE 2 COURSE DINNER. MUSIC BY ANDREW SPALL AND MEL STEVENS AND THE CLASSICS. TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Thurs 15 QUIZ Sat 17th CURT N ROD POPULAR 60s DUO Wed 21st PSYCHIC NIGHT th

WITH STEPHANIE CARR RSPCA, SUFFOLK BRANCH FUND RAISER TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Thurs 22nd BINGO Sat 24th TRAVELLING LIGHT BAND



 

 

(Formerly known as Bramford RBL Club)

Entertainment for February



 



Every Sunday night Bingo at 8pm

We have a snooker room, pretty outside seating area and hot drinks available at the bar – so come and join us for coffee or beer.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford







  



 



 

   

  

   

 

    







  



 

 





 

 

  





 

 

 













 

 

  



REGULAR DARTS, CRIB, LINE DANCING, KARAOKE, POOL AND SNOOKER NIGHTS DURING THE WEEK. MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE NOW



 

 

   

5

NEWS BRAMFORD FLOWER SHOW This year’s flower show will be on Saturday, July 7. The photograph theme for adults will be The Good Old Days and we hope to have a lot of entries.

SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP

A COMMUNITY SHOP FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY, RUN BY THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

BRAMFORD COFFEE MORNING The coffee morning will be on Saturday, February 17 at Cherryfields, Gippingstone Road, from 10am to approximately 11am. Tea, coffee and cakes are on sale, together with a wide variety of preserves and pickles sold for charity. Other stalls are often also to be found. This is a good chance to chat and meet fellow villagers, so why not join us?

BRAMFORD OPEN GARDENS Are you proud of your garden? Would you like the opportunity to show off your skills and hard work?

Bramford Church is planning an open garden event in late spring early summer to raise money for the church.

The size of your garden is not important; anything from acres to a pretty courtyard is suitable.

If you are interested and would like more information please contact me for more details.

Terry Hunt 01473 747600 / 07720 852299 telboy@btinternet.com

The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416 OPENING TIMES Monday to Friday: 8am-6pm Saturdays: 9am-1pm Happy 2018 to all our customers and volunteers; we look forward to seeing everybody in the shop in the coming year. Many thanks to all the volunteers who gave of their time to keep the shop open over the Christmas and New Year period, your efforts were much appreciated.

Our Tea and Chat afternoons continue and we have two more to go in 2018: Wednesday, February 28 and Wednesday, March 28, 2-4pm. Come along for a hot drink, a piece of cake and a chance to meet up with others for a chat during the cold weather.

Also going well is the Petrolheads afternoons when those with an interest in all things motor driven meet for a chat and cup of tea and biscuit on the first Wednesday of each month in the Coffee Corner. This is also held between 2 and 4pm, so if this is your thing you will be very welcome by other likeminded people Volunteering in the shop is an excellent way to meet new people and learn new skills. It’s also an excellent way to gain work experience to put on CVs for anybody wishing to join the world of work or going forward with education. We always welcome new volunteers, so if you are recently moved to our locality, recently retired, or have a bit of time on your hands and wish to get to know more people our community shop is an excellent facility for providing a heart to the local community and a place to meet up with other people.

Of course the main purpose of the shop is to provide our customers with good quality, reasonably priced, produce. We aim to support local producers and to that end we offer an excellent range of fresh local produce, eggs, bread, pies and cakes, all produced within a very short distance from us. Goods can also be pre-ordered so that you can be sure that what you require is there. We also have frozen foods and a whole range of other household goods. Our other services are there for all to use, please come in and you will be greeted by our friendly volunteer staff.

• Orders can be taken for regular or one-off meat, bread, cakes…

• The Coffee Corner is a good place for a relaxing chat • Find something new to read in the book exchange • A dry-cleaning service, at present collected on Tuesday mornings • We also promote reuse and recycling in the shop and are always happy to receive reusable plastic carrier bags and egg boxes • Newspapers and magazines can be ordered for collection at the shop • Delivery service for those with mobility problems So, not only a good place to shop and find local produce, meet up with people you haven’t seen in ages, but it also gives real heart to the local community.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Management Team: Lucy Barrett, 831890; Sue Browne, 831321; Terry Fordham, 831529; Peter Jousiffe; Anne MacFadyen, 831288; Steve Woolhouse, 831080

6

In Touch online:

ADVERTORIAL

Cloudy2Clear Announce Trusted Trader Partnership Consumer champions Which? have now joined the thousands of customers who recognise that Cloudy2Clear Windows really are a business that you can TRUST. The company which specialises in repairing windows which are steamed up, broken or damaged by replacing the panes – not the frames has received the coveted ‘Which Trusted Trader’ status after going through a rigorous accreditation process entirely focussed on customer service.

Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number

of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle.

Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing

a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!

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

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

7

NEWS SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM BURGLARIES Recently across the county there have been a number of dwelling burglaries.

Please don’t make it easy for them. Burglars look for homes with no signs of life. Leave a light on, or the radio, or better still both. Think of PIR lighting for the outside which may alert you or your neighbours. There are a number of preventative measures you can take.

Remember to lock your doors, windows and gates. Make sure your valuables are not in view, are secured safely somewhere within your home, or placed in a place that you wouldn’t necessarily think to look for such items.

Burglar alarms and cameras are also good deterrents.

Marking your property and/or taking photos of valuables is also useful to you and to us should the worst happen. Keeping a note of serial numbers may help us reunite you with your items in the event of a burglary and the items being found.

Don’t forget the outbuildings either. These can be alarmed and should be secured at all times.

Theft from Motor Vehicles Unfortunately this type of crime is also very easy if you haven’t secured your vehicle. If your vehicle is left insecure you will probably not be covered on your insurance if items are stolen. Remove tools overnight, secure the vehicle and leave nothing that may entice someone to break in.

You can register your items/valuables at: www.imobolise.com Until next month, if you any queries or questions please contact Hadleigh SNT at Hadleigh Police Station, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh IP7 5AD / hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk EMERGENCY: CALL 999 NON-EMERGENCY: CALL 101 FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @HadleighPolice POLICE CONNECT: suffolk.police.uk/policeconnect

SnOasis PARISH ALLIANCE (SPA)

CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFELINE & CHARITY SHOP On December 29 we were up at 4.30am to get ready to take the children to the airport for their journey home. Unfortunately the flight was a really early one and we had to make allowances for the weather conditions and possible delays on the roads.

While all of the children were obviously looking forward to seeing their families again, there were a few tears at the airports as we said goodbye to one of the best groups of children we have had visiting us. There was nothing other than lots of fun and great enjoyment during the month, both for the visiting children and the families who hosted them.

The children enjoyed everything, no matter how small and each new experience was greeted with appreciation and delight. These children came from some of the poorest families and I am sure we have given them memories that will last a lifetime.

We are now looking towards the summer group visit and would appeal to anyone interested in supporting our work to think about us now rather than waiting until the summer as we have to make our preparations a soon as possible in advance of the children’s arrival.

The children will be with us for four weeks from July 1 to 29. Children will be aged between eight and 10. We are asking for donations of good quality second-hand clothing for the summer group for age range seven to 11 years.

The children arrive with only the clothes they are wearing so both summer and winter clothes are appreciated.

For further information about our program or to donate clothes for the children please email or call me and I will be happy to provide further details.

We also have a very active presence on Facebook both for our visiting children’s activities and for our charity shop based in Needham Market.

For those of you who have friends and families who may be interested in hosting but are not local to Stowmarket, we do have links covering the areas of Cambridge and Norfolk and we would be happy to provide details of the local contacts for these areas and indeed any other area in the UK where we have representation.

In the autumn of 2016, Onslow Suffolk Ltd put in an application to Mid Suffolk District Council for SnOasis Reserved Matters to be considered – Planning Application no. 4494/16.

For full details visit: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning It’s important to be aware that this is not a renewal of the original planning approval for SnOasis, which remains in place. Reserved Matters cover the detail of such topics as design, appearance, transport, drainage, ecological mitigation, etc.

Our questions and comments about Reserved Matters were summarised in a document which was submitted to MSDC in the summer as the comments from the SPA and all its member parishes, giving the comments extra weight because they come from a significant number of local communities, representing over 11,000 registered voters. The SPA member parishes are Baylham, Barham, Bramford, Claydon and Whitton, Great Blakenham, Little Blakenham, Needham Market, Nettlestead and Somersham.

As you are no doubt aware, Onslow Suffolk have finally submitted the missing information for the SnOasis Reserved Matters application. By the time you read this, the deadline of February 2 for comments will be very close. If you haven’t commented, please do so as quickly as possible – this may be our last chance to give our views. Follow this link to the application: https://tinyurl. com/yabaywx7 Once this stage is over, the council’s Planning Committee will consider the application. Whatever the outcome, the SPA will continue to monitor the progress of the application and activities at the site. We will keep the focus on the needs and concerns of residents who will be affected by whatever eventually happens with the site.

For further information, please email SPA clerk Janet Gobey: snoasispa@icloud.com SnOasis Parish Alliance Chairman Steve Plume

8

Here we see the children when they arrived in Minsk airport. When they landed I got a phone call from Tanya, our interpreter, who put her phone on hands free and all the children shouted out loud, “we miss you all, come and see us in Belarus”.

We are very aware that there are now more charitable causes than ever all needing support. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supports us, you may think you only do a little but without you we could not survive.

Link Chair Elizabeth Parker, 01449 760343 www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

9

NEWS SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY Want more Suffolk energy-from-waste facility news?

You can now sign up for our twice-yearly e-newsletter. The e-newsletter is packed full of news, from how much waste we have processed to visitors we have welcomed on site. If you would like to receive these then sign up at: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/suffolkefwnewsletter Paper copies of the newsletter are available on request by calling 01473 839149.

If you would like to keep in touch more regularly, Suffolk energy-from-waste is now tweeting site updates and tips on how to reduce, reuse and recycle your waste. Follow us on Twitter @suffolkefw.

Come and have a look around The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility is holding a series of open days in February and March which will include a tour of the facility and time to explore our visitor centre. Places are currently available on the following days: • Tuesday, February 6, 10am-noon • Thursday, February 15, 2-4pm • Tuesday, March 20, 6-8pm There are 20 spaces on each day and you must pre-book. To book your place, please email suffolkefw@sita.co.uk with your preferred dates and we will confirm your place by email. If you would like to come but cannot make these dates, you can email us to register your interest and we will let you know when the next open days are planned. We also organise trips for interest groups and schools so get in touch if your group or class would like to come and have a look around.

Recycle your electrical items Have you treated yourself to new electrical items in the January sales?

Remember that here at the energy-from-waste facility we only take the rubbish that’s left over after recycling. Your old electrical items contain precious metals and must not go in your black bin, but they can be reused or recycled.

If your electrical item is still working you can take it to a local charity shop or to the reuse point at your local recycling centre. You can also find a new home for these items online via sites like Freecycle, Preloved and Gumtree. If your electrical item is broken and no longer working you can recycle it at your local recycling centre.

Any questions?

If you have any queries about our operations, please do not hesitate to contact the facility on 01473 839149.

OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS To book a visit: 01473 836 821

Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 SUEZ Communities Trust: 01454 262910

IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 5 Route 5 MIP/5A MIP/5B MIP/5C MIP/5D MIP/5E MIP/5F

MIP/5G MIP/5H MIP/5I MIP/5J MIP/5K

Town/village Location Sproughton Church Lane Sproughton Wild Man Bramford St Mary’s Close Bramford Paper Mill Lane Great Blakenham, Chequers Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park Baylham Post Box Claydon Crown Claydon Edinburgh Gardens Barham Bacon Road Bramford Packard Place

Time 9.10-9.25am 9.30-9.45am 9.50-10.05am 10.10-10.25am 10.35-10.55am 11-11.15am 11.25-11.45am 11.55am-1pm 2.05-2.20pm 2.25-3.50pm 4-4.30pm

2018 DATES: February 13, March 13, April 10, May 8, June 5, July 3 & 31, August 28, September 25, October 23, November 20, December 18

Please note that Mobile Library Route 13 stops off at the Sorrel Horse in Barham from 11-11.10am on the following dates: February 23, March 23, April 20, May 18, June 15, July 13, August 10, September 7, October 5, November 2 & 30, December 28

10

In Touch online:

NEWS COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT JOHN FIELD’S REPORT TO GIPPING VALLEY: JANUARY 2018 Last month’s celebration of gas main work completed without a major road closure at Hackneys Corner appears to have been a bit premature. They will be back in early April, hopefully conscious of the need to minimise disruption on this important route.

and People. Secondly, to offer Suffolk as a pilot area for the introduction of a nationwide plastic bottle Deposit Return Scheme. This scheme would improve recycling rates, reduce costs and reduce harm to our environment and wild life.

On a more positive note, the 50 mph speed limit on the B1113 will be extended from Pound Lane to the start of the 40 mph limit at Bramford.

This is to cover the entrance to the Greenhouse project and the Water Park.

Labour asked the council to offer support to the 35,000 women in Suffolk who are suffering from changes in state pension age. The chief executive will write to the government calling on them to reconsider transitional arrangements. Secondly, they asked the council to improve the delivery of high needs services for children and adults with autistic spectrum disorders and ADHD. The council agreed, and proposed that it should be a priority for the newly-formed Care, Health and Wellbeing Cabinet Committee.

School Travel Consultation A consultation on the revised proposals for home to school transport will run until February 28. There are several options including ‘no change’, but the cabinet wish to cut to the statutory minimum of transport to your nearest school. See: www.suffolk.gov.uk/schooltravel Schools The planning application for the extension to Claydon Primary will be considered by the county in January. It is designed with two phases going to two-and-half and then three form intake to ensure it can accommodate children from the new houses in Great Blakenham and a sensible number in Barham.

Planning The Pigeon outline planning application 1856/17: Land off Norwich Road Barham and Claydon for 300 houses was updated on December 22 and is getting close to the point where it will go to committee. All documentation is available on the Mid Suffolk website.

The proposals include land for a new primary school to supplement Claydon Primary. This would be necessary if all the developments proposed for Barham and Claydon went ahead.

Early Years Funding After last month’s opposition concern, SCC is changing the Early Years funding for 2018-19. The key proposals are that SCC will retain 3.8% of the three- to four-year-old allocated funding down from 6.3% in 2017-18 and the hourly base rate for three to four year-olds will increase from £3.87 to £4.

The distribution of the disadvantage funding will change to an hourly rate from a lump sum per eligible child. The SEN inclusion fund will go to those supporting SEN children. In 2017-18, all received an added four pence per hour.

To achieve this SCC will need to shift towards digital information for families and revise training for providers.

Outbreak of Unanimity Just before Christmas the council unanimously agreed two Lib Dem, Green and Independent Group motions and two from the Labour Party.

LDGI wishes were to sign up to the Woodland Trust’s Charter for Trees, Woods

Scrutiny of the Broadband Programmes We involved the county officers in the Suffolk Broadband project, a senior rep from the government and BT people responsible for the East of England. At a pre-meeting, the Scrutiny chair and I met the minister and the full broadband team.

We established the programme is behind schedule, but that after robust action by Suffolk BT resources have been increased to get back on track by April. The project is moving from current technology, Fibre to the Cabinet, which involves copper wires for the final stretch to your home or business to Fibre to the Premises, FTTP. This gives you 50 to 300 Mbit / Sec depending on the depth of your pocket. It is also good news that the current technology can be upgraded easily.

FTTP is clearly more future proof, more comparable to broadband as installed by advanced economies like Singapore and better suited to the smaller villages where small groups of remote houses must be served.

We emphasised the need to make more use of self-dig, like the successful example in Baylham, to get cables to remote locations. Communication and order processes also need an upgrade so that people know when higher speeds are available and can place the necessary orders with their ISP without a challenge to their perseverance.

Scrutiny of Highways (again) There was evidence of improvement. The number of potholes fixed by permanent repairs continues to increase and councillor requested schemes are getting done. But we still need to keep a close watch on the contract.

I hope to see the Great Blakenham Zebra in place by the time you read this.

Fingers crossed!

If you have any queries, please phone me on 01473 831306 (you will need to say your name and press #) or 07545 423808 or email me at: john.field@suffolk.gov.uk I do have Twitter (@JohnFieldjd) and Facebook (fieldjd) accounts and my website is at: www.johnfield.suffolk.libdems.org

Dad always gave her roses. With their help, today was no different Here for you every hour of every day

01473 858517

or visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

11

OUT & ABOUT St Mary’s Church, Burstall

COFFEE MORNING AND CAKE SALE Burstall Village Hall Saturday, February 24, 10am-noon Coffee and Cake, Raffle and Tombola, Bric-a-Brac

BRAMFORD COMPUTER CLUB In February the Monday group (7.30-9.30pm) will only meet on Monday 26, and the Wednesday group (10am-noon) will meet on Wednesdays 7, 21 and 28. The club will be closed on Monday 12 and Wednesday 14 for the school half-term holiday. Membership is £1 per school year and £3 per two-hour session. All meetings take place in the upstairs room of the Methodist Church. Broadband and refreshments are available. There is no set programme; our aim is to help you to get the most out of your computer.

Why not give us a try?

BRAMFORD LOCAL HISTORY GROUP On Thursday, February 15, Bob Merrett will be talking to us about Thomas and John Clarkson who were heavily involved in the anti-slavery campaign, hence Clarkson Street in Ipswich. It should be a very interesting, although possibly disturbing evening.

The meeting will be in the Church Room at 7.30pm as usual. Visitors are welcome £3.

BRAMFORD CRAFT & CHATTER GROUP This month we meet on Tuesdays 13 and 27 in the Parish Room from 9.30am to noon as usual. Anyone interested in crafts or Scrabble is welcome £2).

BRAMFORD TREFOIL GUILD Our December meeting was a lovely Christmas meal at the Blakenham Chequers. This was really enjoyed by the members who attended. Our January meeting was our annual meeting where we discussed the past year and elected a new committee for 2018.

Pat Caddick has stood down after four and a half years as chairman. Thanks go to her for her hard work at the helm. Our new chairman is Linda West and I know she will put her all into carrying on the good work.

This month we meet on February 5 at 2pm. We will be telling the meeting about our holidays and hobbies. I wonder what kind of hobbies we will be hearing about.

If you would like to join our meetings please come along to the Guide and Scout HG in Ship Lane, Bramford on the first Monday of every month at 2pm. Once again, a very happy 2018 to all.

24th Ipswich Scout Group is holding their monthly jumble sale on Saturday, February 17, 1-3pm at 24th Scout HQ 330a Bramford Road, Ipswich (beside the Railway Bridge). Come and bag a bargain.

GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB Open to anyone living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. The club meets from 2-3pm every Monday (other than bank holidays) in Great Blakenham Parish from February to December.

The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House. The building is fully accessible with parking at the rear.

Members pay £2 per meeting to cover hall hire, refreshments, the monthly workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes. Alternatively, if you would just like to come and bring your own project to work on, enjoy our company and make new friends without doing the workshops the charge is £1.50 per meeting. Members take it in turns to make the tea.

The club will restart on Monday, February 5 and the programme for 2018 is as follows:

BRAMFORD WI Our first meeting of the year had a Scottish theme and everyone who took part in the kurling did very well considering they were being watched, which made it very nerveracking. We also enjoyed some very tasty soup; our thanks to the chefs who made it.

Our next meeting is on Monday, February 12 at 7.30pm. Our speaker, Amanda Sutherland, will tell us about her interest in craftwork and how she came about doing it.

The competition is Make a Heart for a Loved One and it can be crafted in anything. This will keep you all busy until our next meeting!

February 5 Charity Projects with a visitor from the craft group at St Elizabeth’s Hospice with ideas on how we can help them March 5

A Taste of the Orient

April 9

Take a Piece of Card

May 1

Layers for the Lads

June 4

Bag Ladies

July 2

Felting

August 6

It’s a Jungle out There

September 3

No Tune on this Accordion

October 1

Christmas Stockings

November 5

Christmas Card Making

December 3

AGM and Christmas Party

Do come and join us; we will be very pleased to see you.

If you have been interested in our entries to the magazine over the past year and think it all sounds interesting, there is currently room for new members so if you would like to join us please get in touch. Although the club is all ladies at present gentlemen who would like to learn crafts are welcome.

Unfortunately I cannot accommodate children.

If transport is required please contact Janet: 741331

Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

ST MARY’S CHURCH GATHERING Every third Tuesday in the month, 2.30-4pm, in the Church Room.

12

In Touch online:

OUT & ABOUT GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50’S CLUB

SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS’ CLUB

The club is open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet from 2-4pm on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in Great Blakenham Parish Room. The cost per meeting is £1.50 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea. The Parish Room, which is fully accessible and has parking at the rear, is the building with the green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House.

By the time you read this we will have completed our festive celebrations with our meal at The Wild Man on January 17. The only remaining meal out during the 2017/18 financial year will be on April 18 immediately before the 2018 AGM, details of which will be published in advance.

Our meetings started again on January 10 when members were given the sad news that June Vale had died. June was one of the founders of the club with Shirley Scott and although she had stood down as the organiser, she continued to attend and support the club and will be greatly missed.

At the AGM, club members will appoint a committee for the next 12 months; if you consider you can help by joining up with six other members to benefit the running of the club, please put you name forward. I regret to inform you that committee membership does not involve a salary.

I look forward to seeing all of you on April 18.

John Bates

At the meeting we talked about New Year’s resolutions, their origin and history together with their relevance to modern life. Our meetings for February will be on Wednesdays 14 and 28, the programme for which is still being finalised.

IPSWICH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB

New members are always welcome, but if you would just like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you.

Probus clubs are for retired or semi-retired business gentlemen. The primary objective is to provide fellowship between members and to share similar interests in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

SOMERSHAM WI As the winter weather continues into February, we are looking forward to warming ourselves with Megha Bikkanavar and her talk entitled India: One Country, Many Worlds on Monday, February 19 at 7.30pm in the village hall. Having had a couple of talks on Turkey and South Africa last year we know that speakers providing an insight into other countries are always popular. We are hoping that Megha will be able to bring us the colours and spices from this amazing country.

The programme for 2018 is full and varied with plenty of hands-on evenings: March 19: T’ai Chi April 16: Suffolk Lavender Farm May 21: WI Resolutions and Craft Evening June 18: Flower Arranging We look forward to seeing you, but don’t forget we have moved to the third Monday of the month!

As always, all our information is on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/SomershamIWI – and on posters locally.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

We meet monthly at the Masonic Hall in Soane Street, Ipswich on the last Wednesday of each month for lunch, followed by talks and lectures on a variety of subjects. In addition we hold social events including outside visits when we invite our spouses, partners and friends to join us.

If membership appeals to you, please contact our secretary, Ken Stanley, for further details: 01473 274898 / probus174@gmail.com

SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB The next meeting is on Monday, February 12 when Chris Parfitt, a very well-known speaker, will give a talk entitled Flowers and Traditions of Bhutan. This will take place in Offton and Willisham Village Hall at 7.30pm.

We have several good speakers lined up for 2018. Membership is only £8 per person per year, and visitors or guests can come for £1.50 per meeting. If you would like more information please contact: 01473 254941/830600 Christine Barrell

13

ON THE GRAPEVINE EAST ANGLIA ONE OFFSHORE BECOME A BEANSTALK READING HERO WINDFARM PUBLIC INFORMATION DAYS IN 2018 Could you help transform the prospects for a child through the power of books and stories?

Local literacy charity Beanstalk has launched a new campaign for 2018 to highlight the extraordinary difference members of the community in Suffolk can make by volunteering in primary schools to support children who struggle with reading. The work Beanstalk’s ‘reading heroes’ carry out will improve the lives of children that need extra help to prevent them from falling behind at school and to bring enjoyment into reading.

The East Anglia ONE offshore windfarm developer, ScottishPower Renewables, is inviting local communities to attend a series of public information days in Suffolk to find out more about its upcoming programme of work to install cabling under railways, roads and rivers to connect the windfarm to the national grid.

In the early stages of planning the East Anglia ONE project, ScottishPower Renewables took the decision to connect the offshore windfarm to the national grid at Bramford using underground cables, rather than constructing pylons. Along the 37km route between Bawdsey and Bramford there are approximately 20 locations where Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is required for crossing under waterways and important infrastructure. HDD is an advanced drilling technique, which will help to minimise disruption and reduce environmental impacts.

Residents are invited to find out more about ScottishPower Renewables’ plans by attending public information days. One was held in January with two to follow in February: • Tuesday, February 13, 4-7.30pm Martlesham Heath Pavilion, The Drift, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL • Tuesday, February 20, 4-7.30pm Claydon & Barham Village Hall, 8 Norwich Road, Claydon IP6 0DF Joanna Young, Stakeholder Manager for ScottishPower Renewables, said: “East Anglia ONE is progressing well, with construction underway at the onshore substation in Bramford. To help connect the cables we have planned a Horizontal Directional Drilling programme of work.

“This involves innovative engineering practices and ensures that we won’t impact on train timetables and minimises road works. The largest drilling operation will allow us to install 700 metres of cable underneath the Deben. We would welcome anyone who wants find out more to come and speak to our project team at the public information days.”

For over 40 years Beanstalk has recruited, trained and supported reading helpers in primary schools to provide one-to-one support where it is crucially needed. Many children in Suffolk still leave primary school not having met the expected standards of reading which can lead to all sorts of problems in later life.

By working with children who have either fallen behind with their reading, lack confidence, or struggle with their fluency or comprehension, Beanstalk’s reading helpers can make a significant difference to their future prospects.

Their one-to-one sessions twice a week with the children they support will help them progress while also helping to encourage reading enjoyment. In 2016-2017 Beanstalk reading helpers supported approximately 840 children in the East of England with their reading.

“Beanstalk reading helpers really are local heroes within our communities and do so much more than just read. They develop confidence, self-esteem and very importantly help make reading fun and enjoyable. We regularly hear from volunteers who have had ‘breakthrough’ moments with a child because they found a particular book, poem or story which captivated that child’s interests. These moments are often the turning point for a child and happen as a result of regular and consistent reading opportunities,” explains Jo Burns, Area Manager for Beanstalk East of England.

Fraser Simpson has been a Beanstalk reading helper in the area for four years: “Firstly and very quickly after I started with Beanstalk I learnt that working with children is fun. I then realised that I got as much out of the sessions as the children. More recently I have learnt that the Beanstalk sessions have helped make a real difference to children’s performance in the classroom and at home.

“I would recommend anyone to consider volunteering. If you enjoyed reading bedtime stories it is very likely you would enjoy helping children find joy in reading and language. It is not teaching in a formal sense and it is not just about reading. If you enjoy playing Scrabble or doing crosswords, these are great activities to introduce children to, have fun with and develop their language.

“I would say as a Beanstalk volunteer you are going on a voyage of discovery with children to find what it is that they really enjoy amongst literature, poetry, word games, crosswords etc. The eventual rewards of finding you are regularly beaten at ‘Hangman’ or having a child ask to take their book home so they can continue reading, are immeasurable.”

Once trained by Beanstalk, reading helpers on the Beanstalk Reading 321 programme work with three children at a local primary school and spend 30 minutes with each child twice a week, during term-time, for at least one academic year. Each session is meant to be relaxed, informal and fun.

By having this one-to-one time with each child the reading helper can help tailor resources to the child’s interests and develop reading skills in a fun and engaging way.

If you would like to become a Beanstalk reading hero in 2018 and would like to help children in your community reach their full potential please: Visit: www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk Call: 0845 450 0307 Email: info@beanstalkcharity.org.uk

14

In Touch online:

ON THE GRAPEVINE NEW RURAL CRAFT COURSES AT ORCHARD BARN New craft courses are planned over the coming months at Orchard Barn near Battisford as the centre’s handmade craft room takes shape.

As a tree and wood orientated enterprise it was decided to make a start with a spoon carving course on Saturday, March 10.

What better way to spend some time than learning new skills carving small pieces of greenwood into beautiful and functional spoons?

Much of the greenwood is sourced from Orchard Barn’s own orchard, so with apple pruning coming up the bigger pieces will be saved for carving. The smaller sticks are greatly enjoyed by one of volunteer’s pet rabbits and the rest are chomped up and converted into compost for the vegetable garden.

Upcycling, repurposing and recycling are central to everything that Orchard Barn does.

If you are interested in spoon carving, restorative orchard tree pruning or compost making please have a look at our courses by visiting: www.orchardbarn.org.uk/calender If you’re interested in volunteering and helping develop the rural craft course programme please email: sarah@orchardbarn.org.uk.

GOOD NEIGHBOURS Are there people living in your community who would benefit from a Good Neighbour? A Good Neighbour Scheme is a group of people who help others in their community. This could be by giving a lift, checking a smoke alarm, changing a light bulb, fixing a tap, tidying a garden, or perhaps befriending someone who is lonely or new to the village. It is run by a group of local residents who want to help their neighbours enjoy a better quality of life.

IPSWICH MUSIC DAY

Each scheme is operated via a phone (normally a mobile) which is held in turn by a core group of volunteers. A duty period is usually one week but can be negotiated between members of the volunteer team. Anyone who needs help can call the number and speak to the duty officer, who will locate a suitable volunteer.

APPLICATION

Would you like to be involved with setting up or volunteering for a scheme?

Are you already involved with a similar scheme and would like some support and to be part of a network?

Community Action Suffolk can support you in setting up a scheme, we can provide you with all the advice and guidance you will need.

Please contact Good Neighbour Scheme Development Officer Sally Connick: 01473 345359 / 07884 563370 / sally.connick@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE 01473 353350

Here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help. www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

S U N D A Y 1 J U LY 2 0 1 8

S NOW OPEN

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS MONDAY 26 MARCH 3PM a p p ly at i p s w i c h . g o v. u k / i p s w i c h m u s i c d ay

f @ipswichents

15

SCHOOLS / SPORT CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL

BRAMFORD PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP

Hard to believe we are nearly half way through the first half of spring term. The children have been enjoying their time again with lots of crafts and managing to get outside to play as well, even if they have been wrapped up well to do it!

The spring term is now well under way and all of the children have settled in well after the Christmas break.

As we are now open throughout each of the school holidays we will have the option to take children up to five years old for additional sessions during these weeks, subject to availability. The next bookings are for February half term (Monday 12 to Friday 16) and the Easter Holidays (Tuesday 3 to Monday, April 16 inclusive). Please contact the administration assistant for more details.

Don’t forget that from September 2017 the government are introducing an additional 15 hours funding for working parents of three and four year olds. This means that parents who both earn the equivalent of 16 hours at National Minimum Wage (£115.20 per week) or more per week and less that £100,000 per year (or just one carer if a single parent) will be eligible to claim up to 30 hours of funding. You can register at Childcare Choices to see if you are eligible and also register for the Government Childcare Vouchers Scheme. If you are using the 30 hours you must provide your 30 hour code (given once registered) to use and your National Insurance Number. Once we have checked these details you can book sessions (subject to availability) for the following term.

If you would like an application form or any further information please contact administration assistant Lisa Read: Claydon Pre-school, Old Scout Hut, Thornhill Road, Claydon IP6 0DZ / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk / 01473 831648

CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL The spring term has started with a flurry of activity, especially our Year 11 students who are already undertaking more internal exams in preparation for the real thing in the summer.

They have also been completing coursework and practical assessments in a range of subjects including music, drama, art, PE, DT, computing science, business studies, health and social care and leisure and tourism. It can be a stressful time, but lots of support is offered especially in the form of afterschool revision sessions. Later this month we are taking them on a Revision Bootcamp on Mersea Island in Essex. As well as learning some useful revision strategies they will attempt some challenging physical activities including high ropes and a climbing wall to prove to themselves that if they have a go – they will succeed! Hopefully in addition to returning home cold, tired and muddy they will feel more confident moving towards their exam season.

Year 9 are just starting out on their GCSE journey and made their choices of which subjects to study at our options evening. We offer a lot of career guidance throughout the school and it is always exciting to hear of their dreams and aspirations for their future careers.

Elsewhere in school the Readathon has proved very popular with students in Years 7-9 reading thousands of pages and hundreds of books and sharing reviews of what they have enjoyed. Reading is a lovely pastime and developing it as a lifelong habit is an excellent one to establish; research shows the more young people read the better their writing becomes and they are more likely to be successful across all GCSE subjects. In addition it is a relaxing hobby and the students who have also raised money to provide books for sick children in hospital have supported an excellent cause. Thank you to anyone who has supported our students with sponsorship.

If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, then please come along to one of our open mornings. The date of the next one is Monday, February 26. Please telephone my PA, Mrs J Saunders to book a place: 01473 836110 The term will remain busy into March and as we move towards some lighter evenings I hope everyone enjoys the arrival of signs of spring.

Headteacher Ms Maéve Taylor

16

We have lots of exciting things to look forward to this term. The children will be looking at Chinese New Year, sampling some Chinese food and making decorations. We will also be taking part in events relating to World Book Day and Sport/Comic Relief.

We are a small village pre-school that offers Early Years education to two, three and four year olds. We accept universal funding as well as two-year-old and extended 30 hour funding, if eligible.

Our availability for the remainder of this school year and next school year are very limited, but we welcome all enquiries, however far in advance.

If you are interested in your child joining us or would just like further information, please contact us: bramford.playgroup@btinternet.com / 01473 740782

BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Greetings Guff Lovers, in the absence of any news of league action over the festive period, and in celebration of regaining the column from that Mystic Mick, here are 10 things you may not know about our tennis club.

1 We were formed in the late 1970s by a keen bunch of villagers who wanted to play on hard courts instead of the old grass court which stood behind the village hall. Their hard work resulted in the facility you see today, three hard courts with floodlights.

2 We are one of the smallest clubs in the county (but beautifully formed).

3 We have a qualified coach (carl.douglas@talk21.com) who offers junior and senior coaching sessions (be gentle with him as he has been coaching Nick’s serve; the tranquillisers will help though).

4 All tennis club members are social members of the sports club which offers liquid refreshment in many forms (I have been informed) as well as quizzes, etc.

5 All club members have the option of entering the ballot for Wimbledon tickets (unfortunately Nick has had to withdraw this year due to age and ability).

6 Membership entitles unlimited use of the courts (except when league matches are scheduled) which can be booked online.

7 Club mornings are held on Sundays from 10am-noon and club evenings on Tuesdays from 6-8pm from April for social play and the chance to see Graham duck out of his round in the bar.

8 Non-members can play on a maximum of two occasions upon payment of a guest fee before being required to join. Guest fees payable to the treasurer; you will know him as he is usually driving a new Bentley at membership renewal time.

9 Nick is available for autographs, usually given in exchange for searching for lost serves in the meadow by the river.

10 The AGM is held in March or early April at the sports club, usually after the first club morning of the year. Now that water boarding is illegal we are having a bit more trouble forming a committee, but all volunteers are welcome. If you are interested in joining contact Clive Jones on 01473 574379, or look up Bramford Tennis Club on Clubspark.

JOKE OF THE MONTH A wife was complaining to her husband that he never took her out anymore.

The man protested: “How can you say that? Only last week you said how much you enjoyed it when I took you out for tea and biscuits”. “Yes I did,” said his wife, “but I didn’t enjoy giving blood beforehand though!”

Oh dear, things must improve next month, Mick Russ

In Touch online:

SPORT / CHURCH NEWS SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB Now that all of the Christmas and New Year festivities are done and dusted, thoughts are returning to the upcoming outdoor bowls season. Here at Sproughton Bowls Club the hard work continues behind the scenes to have everything ready in time for the green opening on April 21. Ray Ruffles and the team have spent a lot of time over the winter repairing the edges of the green among other things, and it’s already looking to be in great shape. The clubhouse is also receiving a spruce up from Michael Burch so all coming together nicely.

Following the opening weekend, we have friendlies booked against Copdock & Washbrook (April 24), Woodbridge (April 25) and East Bergholt (April 26) before the league season gets underway. We are also honoured to have been asked to host several area and county semi-finals and finals at the end of June and early in July which is a testament to the quality of the playing surface, again all down to the hard work of the greens team.

For information about our club and competition dates visit: www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com

SOMERSHAM BAPTIST CHURCH Life Explored @ The Duke We all want to be happy. Why is lasting happiness so hard to find? Life Explored is an exposé of the little gods that promise us so much happiness, yet deliver so little.

Life Explored is a seven session series featuring a combination of short films – shot around the world – and Bible interaction. As it explores the Bible story, Life Explored shows how our deepest desires for happiness can only be satisfied in one person, Jesus Christ. The best gift God can give us is himself.

For Life Explored sessions we will be meeting on Thursday evenings in the Marlborough suite at The Duke from 7.45-8.45pm. If you want to make a night of it, why not join us just before we start the sessions for food at 7pm (chilli £5)?

Session 1 in January was The Good God, but if you missed it you can catch up online. The remaining sessions are: February 1: The Trustworthy God February 8: The Generous God February 15: The Liberating God February 22: The Fulfilling God March 1: The Life-Giving God March 8: The Joyful God Our regular Sunday meetings of Worship and Fellowship: 10-10.30am: Prayer and Share 10.45-11.15am: Bible Study (Communion on the second Sunday) 11.30-12.30pm: Worship Service

BRAMFORD METHODIST CHURCH Minister: The Rev Derek Grimshaw 01473 805486 / dkgrimshaw@msn.com Steward: Ms R Palmer, 01473 831117 Please feel free to contact either of us with any queries. Baptisms, marriages and funerals by arrangement with the minister, who will also arrange Holy Communion for the housebound.

SUNDAY Morning Worship with Holy Communion: every second Sunday, 10.30-11.30am* Lighthouse Club: 10.30-11.30am (term time only) Families @ 4: informal get-together with afternoon tea, 4-6pm (once a month – please check diary). Come and go as you please.

This is not a service, but our minister usually joins us.

MONDAY Bible Study: informal look at issues that those present wish to discuss, every third Monday, 2-3pm TUESDAY Network/MWiB*: our ladies’ meeting, although gentlemen are always welcome, second and fourth Tuesdays of month, 2-3pm WEDNESDAY Computer Club: 10am-noon (term time only) Prayers and Laying on of Hands for Healing: second Wednesday of month, 7.30-8.30pm THURSDAY United Service at Cherryfields: first Thursday of month (very informal), 3-3.30pm* SATURDAY Coffee Morning: at the Methodist Church or at Cherryfields (see diary), third Saturday of month, 10-11am *Tea and coffee served afterwards DIARY FOR FEBRUARY 2018 Thursday 1, 3pm: United Service at Cherryfields Sunday 4, 10.30am: Morning Worship with Mrs M Watsham

Refreshments are served between meetings; come when you can and leave when you want.

Sunday 11, 10.30am: Morning Worship / Holy Communion, The Rev D Grimshaw (Poverty Action Sunday)

Weekdays at the Chapel Lunch and Listen: Thursdays, February 1 and March 1, noon Friends and Neighbours: Monday, February 19, 7.45pm

Tuesday 13, 2pm: Network/MWiB, The Rev D Grimshaw

CONTACTS Mark Newcombe (Pastor) 01473 831940 / 07958 830103 m.newcombe940@btinternet.com

Sunday 18, 10.30am: Mr C Finbow

Edwin Mayhew, 01473 658100 Baptist Chapel, Chapel Lane, Somersham IP8 4QE

Wednesday 14, 7.30pm: Prayers and Laying on of Hands for Healing Saturday 17, 10am: Coffee Morning at Cherryfields Monday 19, 2pm: Bible Study Sunday 25, 10.30am: Morning Worship, Mr H Chicken Sunday 25, 4-6pm: Families @ 4, The Rev D Grimshaw Tuesday 27, 2pm: Network/MWiB, Mrs Annette Elliss from the Tourist Information Centre

‘Like’ us on Facebook: Somersham Baptist Church Suffolk

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

17

CHURCH NEWS

ST MARY THE VIRGIN BRAMFORD, ST MARY NETTLESTEAD, ST MARY THE VIRGIN LITTLE BLAKENHAM, ST PETER BAYLHAM Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Jenny Seggar 01473 748914 / revjseggar@outlook.com www.stmarybramford.co.uk Wednesday, 9.30am: Quiet Reflective Communion Service February 1

United Service at Cherryfields, 3pm

February 4 10am 6pm

2nd before Lent Parish Communion, Bramford Evening Prayer, Baylham

February 11 8am 10am 5pm

1st before Lent Holy Communion, Bramford Parish Communion, Nettlestead Five o’clock Service, Bramford

February 13 11am

Communion from Reserved Sacrament, Baylham Care Centre

February 14 Ash Wednesday 9.30am Communion, Vicarage 7pm Communion for Ash Wednesday with Healing, Bramford

To finish positively, it has already been a lively year. We have finally finished the building project at Baylham, hopefully by the time you read this, the organ will be well on the way to being put back in place and we hope to have a celebration and blessing service soon, and the Bell Project at Nettlestead has been started. St Mary’s, Nettlestead only has one bell which was cast in 1618. To celebrate its 400th anniversary, it has been lowered and is being refurbished and rehung, so we really hope that its lovely mellow sound will chime across the village again later this year.

Finally, believe it or not, Lent starts on February 14, so our Lent courses will begin on Wednesday 21 at 7pm at the vicarage. At time of writing I haven’t yet finished planning the Lent course, but will let you know as soon as it has been decided. We usually have a good evening sharing experiences and exploring different aspects of our faith. You do not need any experience to take part, and all are welcome, please do not hesitate to contact me if you wish to find out more.

Blessings, Jenny

February 18 10am 6pm

Lent 1 Parish Communion, Bramford Parish Communion, Baylham

PARISH REGISTERS

February 21 2.30pm

The Gathering, Church Room

May they grow in grace and the knowledge of God.

February 22 7.30pm

Lent Group 1, Vicarage

February 25 8am 10am

Lent 2 Holy Communion, Bramford Fourth Sunday Service, Bramford

Funerals November 17, 2017: Graham Wright, Little Blakenham December 21, 2017: Bert Brown, Bramford

February 28 7.30pm

Lent Group 2, Vicarage

Baptisms December 17, 2017: Sally Smith, Bramford December 29, 2017: Ophelia Verity Webb, Baylham

We extend to his family our sympathy and prayers.

Cleaning Rota: TBA Flower Rota: TBA

Dear Friends,

Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church December: In memory of Mr and Mrs Cracknell December: In memory of Mr W (Terry) Moffat January 16: In memory of Diana Curtis

There are several things I need to mention this month, some more positive than others. Firstly, the positive.

If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 per week.

Please check porch notices for any changes.

Many of you contributed to The Tabitha Project before Christmas and I am really pleased to report that we gave 18 gifts to those who you identified as being lonely in our communities, gifts which were given in person by the children involved in the project and which were much appreciated.

Loneliness is a huge problem in our community and it is up to us to spot those around us who might need encouragement to talk to others, or need our help. Thank you again. We were also able to give a couple of food parcels to families in need, from the donations that you made to us.

Watch this space for more Tabitha action later in the year.

Less positively, there have been a number of major thefts from churches in the area recently, so we may not be opening our doors on such a regular basis for prayer and reflection. I am sure that you will have heard that St Mary’s, Whitton had their safe stolen, and in fact two people have recently been arrested for that particular crime, but it is part of a growing

18

trend at the moment. If the church is locked when you want to go in, you only have to call at the vicarage and I will be pleased to unlock for you, and we will leave a number where other keys are available. I hope things will settle down soon and we will be able to leave the church open more regularly.

LECTIONARY Bible Readings for our Sunday Worship taken from the Revised Common Lectionary. It is good to share the reading of Scripture with Christians – both Catholic and Protestant – across the world.

February 4 Proverbs 8: 22-31

2nd before Lent Col. 1: 15-20

Green John 1: 1-14

February 11 2 Kings 2: 1-12

Sunday before Lent 2 Cor. 4: 3-6

Green Mark 9: 2-9

Lent 1 1 Peter 3: 18-22

Purple Mark 1: 9-15

Lent 2 Romans 4: 13-25

Purple Mark 8: 31-18

February 18 Gen. 9: 8-17

February 25 Gen. 17: 1-7,15,16

In Touch online:

Blockage? Drain problem?

Commercial or Domestic ➡ 24/7 Call out Competitive rates Call

07376 866 884 or 01473 748704 More details at: empdrainage.co.uk

Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning

Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation

call John Burch: 07870 347486

Tel: 01449 721441

MID-SUFFOLK FENCING

SPECIALISTS IN QUALITY TIMBER FENCING

SUPPLY • ERECT • REPAIR

TIMBER & STEEL GATES DECKING PATIOS WOODEN BRIDGES FREE ESTIMATES 31 Alexander Drive, Needham Market IP6 8XG

www.midsuffolkfencing.co.uk

YOU GROW IT I’LL MOW IT

GROUNDS & GARDEN MAINTENANCE We offer the following services all year round: Grass cutting • Garden clearance Fences & Gates • Patios & Paths Hedge Cutting • Tree Cutting Sheds • Summer Houses Digger & Dumper work

For a free quotation please call Nigel Coton 01449 721025 or 07801 515505

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

www.keepingintouchwith.com/bramford

19