In Touch News with Shotley_AUGUST 2018 by steve@intouchnews.co.uk

In Touch

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with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone Volume 8 • Issue No. 9 • AUGUST 2018

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR The game has just ended! I’m utterly devastated but have spent the last hour trying (unconvincingly) to persuade my eight-year-old son it’s not the end of the world. It’s all falling on deaf ears just now, but hopefully not for long. We will pick ourselves up and we will come back, and next time we will have experience on our side. Well done boys. Football might not be coming home today, but you will be given a heroes’ welcome when you do. As a Galway girl I have experienced a similar degree of disappointment more times than I wish to acknowledge. So much of the summer (every summer) in Ireland revolves around GAA fixtures and it’s impossible not to get caught up in the excitement. We grow up playing hurling and camogie and the rivalry is intense, especially at club level. Every game is analysed and every move dissected ad infinitum until the next game. Then it starts all over again. Sport can be cruel, but when it’s joyful, there really is nothing quite like it. When you support a team, you become a member of an extensive community. Even though I’m 500 miles from home I feel proud when I fly the Galway flag. That sense of heritage, that wonderful belonging, will stay with me forever. I shall forever be a Galway girl. Of course I’m now also a Suffolk girl and I’ve been as caught up in the excitement of the World Cup as everyone else. Even if you’re not a footy fan, I hope you have engaged with the World Cup in some small way and that the feel-good factor stays with you for a long time. I also hope it inspires you to appreciate the value of shared experience and to seek out opportunities to spend time with others without the expense of a longhaul flight.

NEWS SHARE YOUR FIRST WORLD WAR MEMORIES Holbrook Society, together with All Saints’ Church, Vivo and Sam Lanier, is organising an evening of reflection and celebration to mark the 100th anniversary of the 1918 Armistice. It will be held in the church on Friday, November 9 as part of Holbrook’s weekend of commemoration. As with the highly successful evening we held in 2014, we would be delighted if anyone had letters, diaries, family stories or pictures related to the end of the First World War and/or its aftermath you are willing for us to share. We received an extraordinary variety of amazing material last time so our expectations are high! We are awaiting confirmation of dates, but will be in touch regarding the rest of the programme soon. The Holbrook Society Team

MACMILLAN FUNDRAISING: LONDON TO PARIS IN MEMORY OF EDDIE ROGERS On July 25, my dad and I will be embarking an on a crazy adventure, riding from London to Paris on our push bikes in loving memory of my late Uncle Eddie. That’s 310 miles in four days!

Whether you choose a sporting activity (either as participant or spectator), a coffee morning, a walk or a talk, there are opportunities aplenty in your local community and I hope In Touch motivates you reach out and grab the ball with both hands.

In Touch

Eddie (pictured) sadly passed away just before the New Year after a long two-year battle with cancer. He will be greatly missed by his wife Doreen, three children, Jason, Dean and Kerry, and their families.

with Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone

Although this brought sadness upon our family, I’ve found inspiration from the kindness of the Macmillan Nurses and carers to do what I can to help them to continue doing their amazing job.

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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 Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Shotley, Stutton & Woolverstone is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

Uncle Eddie was a true legend, he had numerous friends and everyone loved his cheeky grin and helpful nature. Eddie and his wife Doreen had been residents of Sproughton for over 50 years and Eddie was a well-known member of the local community.

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Eddie loved a beer or two and could often be seen at the Wild Man, British Legion and Bramford Bowls Club. Indeed, in the last few years Eddie became more and more involved in the bowls club and took particular delight in seeing his grandson Callum develop into a very promising bowler. So, in my own way cycling to Paris was the least I could do to play my tribute not only to this lovely, wonderful man, but also as a way of saying thank you to those wonderful staff at Macmillan who gave Eddie and the family such tremendous support during this sad time If you feel you would like to make a contribution to help us raise as much as possible then please go to my justgiving page via this link: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/missionforeddie Ronnie Bradford

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NEWS HOLBROOK AND SHOTLEY SURGERY Training Days Our next training afternoons will be on Wednesday, July 18 and Thursday, September 13. The practice will be open for patients to come in to collect or drop off prescriptions and book appointments or make enquiries at reception. However, there will be no clinical staff on site and our telephone lines will be switched over to the out of hours’ service on these afternoons to allow staff training. Please ring 111 for advice if your query cannot wait until the following day. In an emergency, dial 999. NHS 70 Tea Party We had hoped to hold a tea party in July to celebrate the NHS being 70 years old, but this was not feasible, despite offers of help from our patient group. For those patients who were interested, we’re hoping to hold another event later in the year and we will keep your names for this – we can always make an opportunity for cake! Development of our Shotley Premises The partners are considering extending the premises in Shotley by utilising

the existing loft space to provide admin offices. This will mean that we can use the downstairs space to provide rooms for a counsellor, phlebotomy services, GP training and other clinical practitioners. We have considered alternatives such as one new surgery for the whole of the peninsula, but lack of funding and transport issues ruled this out. We will be putting in a bid for this to be part funded by NHS England, but would welcome your views on this. Please put them in writing to me or email our generic email account so they can be collated: iesccg.holbrook-shotley@nhs.net Suffolk Federation GP+ Service As a practice, we belong to the Suffolk Federation GP+ Service which offers appointments until 9pm daily and all over the weekend, including bank holidays. These appointments can be pre-booked up to one week ahead so if this would enable you to see a GP or nurse practitioner, please telephone our receptionists at Holbrook or Shotley who can check availability and book your appointment. Clinics run from bases in Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe, Stowmarket, Leiston, Wickham Market and Haverhill. Practice Manager Julia Smith

BABERGH DISTRICT COUNCILLOR ALASTAIR MCCRAW REPORT TO PARISHES, ALTON WARD: AUGUST 2018 I was rather racking my brains for content this month. It’s not that nothing has been going on, but much of my part can be in the mundane, but necessary, areas of council. For example, I’m currently involved in looking at our Constitution (needs a bit of sorting out), our pre-application process in Planning (Is it working the way we hoped?), an extensive Staff Survey (the positives and the negatives), the Dedham Vale AONB (having just been appointed to its Joint Advisory Committee) and a host of matters that come before Cabinet, Council and Scrutiny. The aim is always to make things work, and then make them work better. It’s interesting, even absorbing, but hardly headline stuff. However this arrived.. IT’S PLANNING AGAIN! This morning Babergh released their Annual Monitoring Report with a real headline piece of news. As of July 11, Babergh believes it can demonstrate a Housing Land Supply of 6.7 years. For over a year now, we have not been able to do show the five-year target. Because of that developers have been able to insist that our own local policies have less worth than the national policy. That says ‘Grant permission’ for all ‘Sustainable Development’. Sustainable is a usefully broad term for their purposes as nobody has a solid definition of what it means. Effectively we, and you, have been in the position of having to accept government sanctioned bullying. Now we might have a better chance to ensure that permissions given are actually useful to our needs. I must sound some notes of caution though. I’m afraid it doesn’t affect permissions already given, including those with outline permission. Applications currently going through the process will be affected, as will future applications. This just brings the Planning Committee back to where we were in 2015 and 2016, when I seem to remember a lot of unwelcome permissions being granted. There are still plenty of financial and political incentives for councils to grant permissions all over the place. The national policy still calls for a PRESUMPTION in favour. The capitals are deliberate, if crude. In my opinion we now only have one hand tied behind our back. You can find the Annual Monitoring Report at: https://tinyurl.com/ybgzjs4j A brief scan tells me that more houses were actually built and there are

lots of outstanding permissions. Thirty-six per cent of the houses built were ‘affordable’, although 80 per cent of market value isn’t that affordable for most. Work on our new Joint Local Plan progresses. I intend to be fully involved in that. More communities are now looking at Neighbourhood Plans in an effort to take some measure of control of planning issues in their own backyard. We have an ageing population and that trend can be expected to continue for around 10 years. And, finally, 90 per cent of our employment businesses are ‘micro-businesses’ with nine or fewer employees. If you’d like to understand more about the planning process and how it works (or is supposed to) I recommend this document, our Statement of Community Involvement: Planning Issues, currently out for consultation. Appendix 1 might give ideas of previous suggestions. Even if you don’t want to comment, it’s a very useful summary that I wish I’d had years ago. https://tinyurl.com/y75vb3ag Brantham Regeneration Area I’m sorry to say that Brantham residents can expect to see some activity here. UK Power Networks are being contracted to replace overhead power lines with underground cable from the Lower Playing Field along the south side of the Temple Pattle area. I also understand that Taylor Wimpey will be the principal housing developer. This is just emerging, but there will be ample opportunity for the public, parish council and myself to become involved before a full public consultation takes place. My personal aim is to keep things rational, polite and civilised. I think the PC feel the same way. When feelings run high, feel free to give me a call. I know that blasting off on social media is very satisfying, but it’s preaching to the choir really. In the meantime, I’ll keep you posted on Facebook and during my travels. There’s still a long way to go. The blue Claud Butler (and a train to Halesworth) took me to the Women’s Tour successfully. It’s the only way to go to a bike race. Representing Babergh (nobody noticed much though!) at the Southwold finish, I found that Suffolk got a lot of credit from that stage. I can always be contacted as below. Alastair McCraw 07812 564188 / alastair.mccraw@babergh.gov.uk Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw & Harriet Steer (a joint open group)

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NEWS SHOTLEY PARISH COUNCIL, JUNE 2018 Shotley Parish Council Community Awards 2018 This year these much deserved awards went to:

to act as noise/visual barriers for the neighbouring properties, will be done at a later stage.

Mrs Jill Nunn for being at the helm of the original Shotley Walking Club for the past 24 years and paving the way for new ventures. Jill decided to retire this year so the timeliness of her award could not have been better.

UKPN also accept that there was some movement to the sheet piles during the drilling stages and will be carrying out coastal protection reinforcement to the affected area in line with the existing Marine Management Licence and subject to the relevant permissions.

Mrs Jane Crapnell for her invaluable help and support to vulnerable people in our community, from taking them to hospital appointments to looking after them in their time of need. Jane is a one in a million lady and how telling was it that Jane was unable to receive her award because on the day of the annual meeting she was helping to look after a friend! Mr Alan Nunn who most of our parishioners will have met either on a Wednesday or a Saturday morning at the Chelmondiston waste disposal facility. We mustn’t forget that had it not been for Mr Nunn coming forward to help Chelmo and Shotley Parish Councils keep this facility open when the powers that be decided to close it down, we probably would have lost it altogether. Alan not only opens and closes the gates and organises the disposal of all the waste, he also physically sorts through it and does his bit for the environment. To Jill, Jane and Alan, on behalf of our parishioners, a huge heartfelt thank you for all you do. People like you make a huge difference to communities and make this world a better place! If you know of a little gem in your community who quietly goes about their business, please do let us know so that we can see their name here next year and say a big thank you! Storm damage to the Coastal Path and Phase 3 Coastal Erosion Protection-update Following a number of meetings with statutory bodies and the general public, an independent group has now been formed to progress these matters. The group is in the process of formally constituting in order to be able to apply for external funding and to have the existing Marine Management License transferred over. Councillor Rob Green has been appointed as PC representative and will act as liaison between the parish council, who own part of the land in question, and the group. The parish council has also agreed to fund the initial set up costs that the group may incur. Felixstowe-Shotley-Harwich high voltage electricity improvement scheme – River Stour Directional Drill at Whinny Queech, Shotley UK Power Networks will be returning to Whinny’s Queech very soon in order to reinstate it to an acceptable and usable standard. To this effect they will install a replacement fence (1100mm in height and consisting of 180mm x 80mm posts with three rails of 100mm x 40mm) and will also lay top soil and drill grass seed in the affected areas in time for the school holidays. Further landscaping, such as the planting of replacement trees

General maintenance matters The parish council has already carried out some maintenance to the path between Mole End and East View Terrace (route to school), but unfortunately our contractor was unable to cut back the hedges and verges further due to bird nesting restrictions. The parish council is concerned that in some areas the lack of maintenance by SCC has an added risk factor as it impedes either safe walking or safe driving and will be looking at what can be done about this. We would like to say a big thank you to the volunteers that help look after our village. Although we respect that you wish to remain incognito, we would like to make sure you know just how much your efforts are appreciated by us all. Plastic waste on our foreshore The parish council was hoping to run a beach clean event in June in conjunction with the primary school, tying it in with curricular activities and the added bonus of activities and rides on the farm, courtesy of our Councillor R Wrinch. However, the primary school would prefer it if the event was organised outside of school times so that the supervision of the children is totally a parental responsibility. To this effect we will decide on a new date at the next PC meeting and will advertise widely so that as many of our parishioners as possible can join us. Watch this space! Play areas Kingsland and Lloyd Road could definitely do with a revamp and we’ve been quietly putting funds away since 2006 for this, so now would be a good time to start looking at what further funding our existing pot can attract and what we can afford. I have been asking for various quotes for equipment, including a gym trail and more age inclusive provision, but the whole process is demanding and we need your help. We need to complete funding applications, carry out consultations, seek further quotes… If you are a parent, grandparent, young adult or just someone who would be willing to be part of a Play Areas Provision Working Group, please do get in touch. For these and any other parish matters, please contact us at 01473 788248 / shotleypc@btinternet.com or visit: shotley.onesuffolk.net Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer Dina Bedwell

Shotley Rose, every Tuesday from 11.30am-1pm Do you feel like the weekend has dragged? Are you fed up with your own company or new to the area? Come along and enjoy a free cuppa and some friendly chat. #dontbeonyourown Meet Up Mondays Suffolk @meetupmondaysSu www.meetupmondays.org.uk

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NEWS SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM Hello, I’m Pc 1397 Dave Wright and I am your new Community Engagement Officer (CEO). I’ve been a police officer with Suffolk Constabulary for 12 years, having spent all that time on a response team based in Ipswich, and I am very much looking forward to this new and challenging role and I look forward to meeting you while I’m out and about. Just to explain a bit about my new role within the community, on June 18 Suffolk Constabulary introduced nine new Community Engagement Officers to cover Suffolk. As a CEO, I will work alongside your existing Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) in tackling locality based crime, anti-social behaviour and problem solving key local issues. I will be visible and accessible with the aim of strengthening engagement within communities and will work with partners and the voluntary sector, highlight and promote public events, develop and support volunteering opportunities, support crime prevention initiatives and ensure timely information is provided to the public using various forms of digital media such as Twitter and Facebook.

from the Ipswich West, East and Central SNTs are all working together to target the hot spot areas that were identified last month with these hot spot areas being patrolled regularly by officers on both foot and in vehicles. If you want to keep up-to-date with the latest policing news in your area, why not subscribe to Police Connect? Police Connect is a messaging service connecting you to the very latest policing news for your area via email, text or phone and there is no charge for this service – all messages you receive are free. You can register to receive information about the issues that most matter to you and be among the first to be alerted by police in the case of an emergency affecting your area. You can choose to receive regular updates on crime and public appeals, safety advice and meetings and events. There is the option to receive information about a range of specific interest areas – such as ‘rural’ or ‘rivers and coastal’ – as well as updates for business owners and news from your Police and Crime Commissioner. To find out more and to register for this service visit: https://www.suffolk.police.uk/services/police-connect

I will be using the Hadleigh SNT Twitter account to post updates, but I also have my own Facebook page which can be accessed from the main Suffolk Constabulary Facebook page by typing ‘Ipswich West & Hadleigh Police’ in the search box. I can also be contacted at: CEOipwesthadleigh@suffolk.pnn.police.uk

If you have any quires or questions please contact Hadleigh SNT at Hadleigh Police Station, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh IP7 5AD

July saw the start of Operation Parkland, the Constabulary’s initiative in South Suffolk to tackle anti-social behaviour and associated criminality in the summer months. Officers from your local Hadleigh SNT, along with those

Non-Emergency: Call 101

SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL Our next auction is on Saturday, September 15. Book lots with Jim Catling (01473 788499 / james.catling@yahoo.co.uk) or Norman Bugg (01473 787358).

Hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk Emergency: Call 999 Follow us on Twitter@ HadleighPolice Police Connect: Suffolk.police.uk/police connect

ST MICHAEL’S MONTHLY MARKET The next market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, August 11, 9am-12.30pm. We are having another Pet Market this month so please bring your dogs, donkeys, etc. Of course we will also have all your favourite market stalls; fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items.

Lots cost £1 and can be delivered to the hall from 9am-6pm on Thursday, September 13 or at a different time by arrangement. Viewing takes place on Friday, September 14, 9.30am-6pm. On Saturday the hall will open at 8.30am. Refreshments are available. Schedules are available on Friday and Saturday. The minimum lot bid is £2.

East End Butchers are pleased to be the market’s resident meat supplier. If you would like to place on order with them it can be collected at the market each month. Their number for orders is 01206 392190. Come along to mingle with your friends, have a cup of coffee and a bacon buttie and enjoy the lovely venue. New stalls welcome. Contact Jane Gould: 01473 780777

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NEWS DISTRICT COUNCILLOR DEREK DAVIS – BERNERS WARD Shotley, Erwarton, Chelmondiston, Woolverstone and Freston Latest figures released show Babergh District Council now has a 6.7 year land supply, ahead of the government’s five-year land supply requirement.

I read with interest your article by District Councillor Derek Davis, page 6 July issue. Would you be so kind as to publish the following by way of an informative follow-up. How to avoid district council’s unreasonably overriding parish council and residents views on planning matters Local Plan reviews and the A Green Future review Council’s across the country are already in the process of drawing up new Local 2036 Development Plans which identify existing and future housing development sites and boundaries affecting us all. This is the largest review ever undertaken and is being driven by the government to meet national and local housing demand via the planning system in an open and consultatively planned manner. Within this review will be an overriding consideration to Preserve and Enhance Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) linked to the government’s other largest national review ever of AONBs. It’s called A Green Future: Our 25-year Plan to Improve the Environment, which also contains an overriding consideration to ‘Preserve and Enhance AONBs’. Local Government Planning Probity Rules and Local Council Charters for Planning Probity As a result of the above National and Local Plan reviews and national and local housing demand, we will all shortly see a huge surge in house building and some of you may feel helpless as to what you can do to control it! District Planning Councillors, Parish Planning Councillors and residents may feel the overriding need to meet national and local housing demand, but of course they will in future be able to look at their respective village, town or district wide council published Local Plans and see where, when and the volume of housing can be met in a planned way and it will be clear there are overwhelming alternative sites to meet housing demand other than on AONBs. Indeed it may be that some AONBs can be extended and enhanced and grants may be available. There will of course be many other national and local planning documented policies to follow (drainage, highways, landscaping, layout, design, etc.), normally these will be advised in any particular case by the professional planning officers in each district council in an openly consultative and accountable way such as on the district council website. The whole process is designed to minimise the opportunity for aggrieved residents/parties to consider a decision to be ‘Unlawful, Unreasonable or Unfair’. Indeed, ideally a councillor will take the earliest opportunity to research, consult and declare a ‘predisposition’ to ‘approve or reject an application’ with sound open and good planning reasons for debate about their ‘predisposition’. It is of course ‘unlawful, unreasonable and unfair’ for a councillor to keep quiet and avoid open accountable discussion about their ‘predetermined position’ to ‘approve or reject an application’. I sincerely hope readers will find this article a useful reference point in future and will take time to research their present and future published Local Plan and the future published A Green Future document. David Martin

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Since April last year the council was unable to show it was building enough homes and that meant its local policies carried less weight in planning considerations and the National Planning Policy Framework took precedence. However, 331 dwellings were built in Babergh last year, 102 per cent of its target of 325, while up to April 1, 2018, 4,377 planning permissions were outstanding, which means the council can calculate it has a core strategy based land supply of 6.7 years. Now that Babergh can demonstrate a five-year Housing Land Supply, the council will have greater control to implement the local policies district councillors have previously endorsed, and puts the council in a stronger position to refuse inappropriate proposals. This is an important development and should be good news for protecting and conserving areas on the peninsula, and indeed the wider district. I know there have been times when we as planning committee members have dealt with applications local residents were very unhappy with, but we had to be mindful of the over-riding national policies. While not quite open season for developers, it certainly made it easier for them to put forward applications they may not have considered doing so a couple of years ago. Applications will still come forward, and we still need some housing, but we will be better placed to ensure what is approved are the right sort of homes, in the right places, in line with our own policies. The new figures will not affect those applications, whether full or outline, where decisions have already been made (before July 11). Although I have now stepped down as a full-time member of the planning committee to focus on ward matters, my Cabinet role, as well as a seat on the Audits and Standards committee and my full-time employment, I will still be sitting at the occasional meetings making decisions when needed as a substitute for my fellow Independent group members when they can’t make it. If you have an issue you would like to discuss please contact me at: derek. davis@babergh.gov.uk / 07824 167196 My Facebook page is: Derek Davis-Your Independent Councillor

SHOTLEY PENINSULA GOOD NEIGHBOUR SCHEMES A HELPING HAND WHEN NEEDED The Shotley Peninsula Good Neighbour Schemes are an important support network in our villages. They are run by volunteers under the umbrella of Community Action Suffolk. They can be contacted for assistance over a range of activities, including shopping, pet care, trips to hospitals and surgeries and collecting prescriptions. We are supported by parish councils and voluntary donations. All volunteers have been DBS and reference checked and are simply people in the community who don’t mind being asked for a helping hand. The contact phone is held by a rota of volunteers who ask volunteers in turn if they are free to help with a particular task. It is for all to use – all of us at some point are glad to be able to call on a neighbour for help. Please contact the Good Neighbour Scheme for your village: Chelmondiston and Pin Mill: 780408 Harkstead and Lower Holbrook: 328326 Shotley and Erwarton: 07799 873881 Stutton Support Network: 327753 Tattingstone: 07895 052086

NEWS / OUT & ABOUT JAMES CARTLIDGE, MP FOR SOUTH SUFFOLK At this time of year South Suffolk really does explode into vibrant natural splendour. It’s the open gardens season, with flora and fauna to the fore, and a chance for all of us to enjoy Suffolk at its best. A personal favourite is heading off on my bike along narrow rural backroads, to have the immense pleasure of seeing a hare or two scampering ahead in the distance. Then there is the still open water of the Stour, where whole stretches lull along seemingly unchanged from when Constable painted there. The constituency is spoilt for choice if you want to sample the best of the open gardens tradition. It would be remiss of me to pick a favourite, though I understand Chelsworth is one of the longest running in the whole country. But I do very much admire those who go to such trouble to throw open their home turf for people to marvel at from far and wide. On the matter of fauna, I am delighted to be the RSPB Parliamentary Species Champion of the Turtle Dove. This migrant species, once a staple of Suffolk’s summer skyline, has declined by more than 95 per cent across the UK since 1970, partly as the unavoidable result of changes in farming methods. I recently attended an RSPB visit in Boxford to see the work that a local farmer is doing to provide improved habitats to try to tempt these birds to land and nest in our area. The reversal of species decline, as with the majority of the issues facing our country, depends on heightened awareness, particularly in terms of educating the next generation. Therefore, I was pleased to donate an owl box – kindly made for me by a talented RSPB volunteer – to Bentley Primary School on the launch day of their Beast, Birds and Bugs club. Beyond education, the protection of our wildlife relies on action at national and international levels. As such, I was delighted that the government recently banned the sale of ivory products in the UK, a crucial step towards ensuring the future of one of the world’s most endangered animals. I hold regular advice surgeries offering help and support to local people. Please see page 14 for my contact details.

HOLBROOK PARISH COUNCIL Key points from the meeting held on May 21 Nomination of Chairman and Vice-Chairman It was agreed that Councillor Ambrose and Councillor Sawyer would continue for another year in their existing posts as chairman and vice-chairman of Holbrook Parish Council. It was also agreed that the council would have representatives on the Village Hall Committee, Alton Water User Group, Emergency Planning Group, Suffolk Association of Local Councils, Shotley Peninsula Tourism Action Group and The Police and Parish Forum. Reade Field Project An inspection of the play area equipment has been scheduled and quotations are being obtained to improve and add to the current facilities available. Full minutes of this and all other meetings are available on the parish website or by contacting the clerk: holbrookparishclerk@outlook.com / 07999 583017 Future meetings: August 20 and September 17 http://holbrook.suffolk.cloud

HOLBROOK SOCIETY Friday, September 7: Foraging – Food for Free! Vivia Bamford of Sciapod Dairy will inspire us to forage in the Suffolk countryside. November 9: Peace Concert in the Church November 24: Christmas Shopping Trip to Norwich Please note we have to increase our charge from £3 to £4: hall fees increased a year ago as have other expenses and to continue to absorb these costs would endanger our financial stability. We hope you will understand.

GHOSTS, GALLOWS & GANGSTERS Shotley & Erwarton WI Wednesday, August 15 Join us on our outing to London and hear stories of crimes and punishment and ministerial ghosts. Start at Whitehall and St James’ Park, then a guided coach tour through the Kray’s East End and stopping at the Ripper’s Spitalfield. Blue Badge guide, coffee and biscuits included. Minimal walking. Coach (with wheelchair access) leaves Shotley at 8.05am. Other pick-ups are in Chelmondiston and the Oyster Reach. Price £36. Contact Lin Howell (01473 787429) or Jo Lee (01473 787311) for tickets

STUTTON FEST! Stutton C of E Primary School is hosting Stutton Fest on Saturday, September 29, 4-6pm. There will be live music, tombola, a raffle, lucky dip, cream teas, tug-of-war, hair and face painting, Pimms and a beer tent, children’s stalls, a barbecue and more. We look forward to seeing you there!

OLYMPIA HORSE SHOW Friday, December 21 Departing at 9am from The Red Lion Chelmondiston. Other pick-up points to be arranged. Come and enjoy a full afternoon program. There is also shopping at the various trade stands. Departing when the afternoon finishes Price £65 inclusive of ticket and coach travel Please contact Shirley for booking with payment by August 20: 01473 780084

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OUT & ABOUT THE OSILIGI TROUPE COMES BACK TO HARKSTEAD! The Osiligi Troupe of Maasai Warriors is coming back to Harkstead Church in October. If you were there when they last came in 2013, you will know what a treat is in store. For anyone else, it’s a chance to experience and enjoy the diverse culture of the Maasai. Their tribal music and dance is incredible – mesmerising to hear, fascinating to watch, and includes the spectacular jumping for which the tribe is famous. The troupe has been raising money for their village community in Kenya on tours to this country since 2007, and we are delighted to welcome them back. They are giving two performances: Friday, October 5 at 7.30pm and Saturday, October 6 at 3pm. Tickets at £10 including refreshments are available from Sally Wilden (01473 327140 / sally.wilden@gmail.com) or Eleanor Soar (01473 327166 / eleanor.soar@gmail.com). It’s an unforgettable opportunity – not to be missed. People who saw them last time still talk about it!

SUNDAY EVENING MUSIC & SONG Chelmondiston Methodist Church, Main Road, Chelmondiston IP9 1DZ July 29, 6.15pm: Elmsett Fellowship Brass Band Mike Stock will bring a thought for the day August 5, 6.15pm: Christian Country & Gospel Mary Sagar will lead this evening’s worship and bring God’s message in song and word. Congregational participation in songs and hymns of Mary’s choice. August 12, 6.15pm: Peninsula Singers We are pleased to welcome back the local choral group again this year for a feast of song. The Rev Andrew Sankey will lead our thoughts. August 19, 6.15pm: The Masson Family The Norfolk-based family of Lynda and daughter Sarah will sing the old favourites, and Ian will give a brief message. The grandchildren may join us again! August 26, 6.15pm: Male Voice Choir A local group of male voices will lead tonight’s Music & Song bringing God’s word in songs and the word. Speaker: The Rev Andrew Sankey. A welcome to all who would like to share in this exciting programme of Music & Song.

BELSTEAD VILLAGE MONTHLY MARKETS A market is set to take place in Belstead Village Hall from 9am-noon on the first Saturday of every month to raise vital funds to support refurbishment of the kitchen and ladies toilet. With an extensive range of tables, a raffle and refreshments, the market is the perfect place to meet with friends for a chat over a cuppa and a piece of cake while supporting this essential local amenity. You can also support Macmillan who will have a table laden with homemade goodies for sale. If you can sew, make or create and would like to hire a table (£10) please contact: 07981 335859 / market@belsteadvillage.co.uk

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SHOTLEY FLOWER AND VEGETABLE SHOW Schedules are now available from Norman Bugg (01473 787358) for the show on Saturday, September 1. Entry is 20p per exhibit. Prize details are in the schedule. This is our 40th show so despite the difficult growing conditions, let’s make it a special one.

SHOTLEY OVER 60S This month we meet on Thursdays 16 and 30 from 1.50-4pm. There is no meeting on August 2 as we are going to Felixstowe for a fish and chip lunch, then to the Spa for a show entitled Seaside Special. This show is at Cromer, but is coming to Felixstowe for one day only. For that reason, we won’t be having a meeting, but there are a few seats left for the show; contact Norman on 01473 787358 if you are interested. A few weeks ago when The Rose hosted the Tuesday morning get together, a gentleman from the Co-op had a chat to me and subsequently came to our meeting on July 5 where he presented to us a large box of tea bags and six large jars of coffee, which our club was very grateful for. If you would like to come to one of our meetings to see what we do, you will be very welcome. Lifts are always available. Contact Norman and Eileen on 01473 787358.

VILLAGE LINK CLUB Our next meeting will be on Wednesday, August 8 when our talk will be Special Music Box Eggs on Display by Jasin Kermee. Future talks will include Collecting Hobbies – Or Obsession, Fused Glass Demonstrations & Sales, Remnants of War, Life as a Tudor Housekeeper, Acorn Village – History to Present Day, The Mystery of Going Underground, My Life as a Live Drawing Cartoonist Comedy Impressionist and Life as a Thames Waterman/Lighterman. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month in Tattingstone Village Hall at 10am. Following the speaker we have refreshments (when there is time for a chat with other members) and a raffle. New members and visitors are welcome to join us. Roger Felgate: 01473 311684

ALTON BELLES WI Have you ever met a real spy? Not like 007, but an unassuming little old lady! Our speaker, Harare Mata Hari, shocked us all. At first glance who could have imagined that this old lady had played such an important part in the torrid and unsettling time when Rhodesia became the new independent Zimbabwe. Her motto was Aware, Alert, Alive, as this was what was needed to stay alive in these turbulent times. After telling us a bit about her life as a spy, she went on to show us how this motto can be just as relevant today. She demonstrated how we could stay safe just by being aware of and alert to danger. She demonstrated and taught us several moves that we could use to overcome an assailant that did not require great strength or agility. I think we all feel a little safer now. We have no meeting in August, but several of our members are off to Helmingham Hall to view the gardens and to partake of a cream tea. Our next meeting is on September 20 at 7.30pm in Tattingstone Village Hall, when we welcome Karen Kenny to tell us about The Magical Mystery of Herbs. We are a very friendly group serving villages around Alton Water, so why not come and join us? For more details phone Tamzin (328670) or Jane (327865). We look forward to hearing from you.

OUT & ABOUT SHOTLEY CHURCH HERITAGE 700 CLUB CHELMONDISTON 100 CLUB We are pleased to announce that the 100 Club is now a 100 plus club! The next draw will be on the first Sunday in September and as the number of participants has risen, the first and runner up prize money will go up to £110 and £55 respectively. We wish to thank everyone who has joined so far for their contribution and their enthusiasm. It really is appreciated. If you haven’t joined yet, it’s never too late. Please talk to Fiona on 01473 780965.

SHOTLEY AND ERWARTON WI

June Draw Winners 1: N Bugg (094) £25 2: Mrs J Stiff (056) £20 3: Mrs E Bugg (095) £15 4: M Warren (104) £8 5: Mrs G Edwards (143) £7 It is now 18 years since the 700 Club was set up and it has raised between £15,000 and £20,000 for repairs and improvements for the church. New members are always welcome at a cost of £1 a month, which can be paid at three, six or 12 monthly intervals. To join, contact Norman: 01473 787358

RSPB VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES Do you enjoy the outdoors? Want to make a difference for nature? Like being around people? Then you’re the perfect person to get involved with the RSPB’s wildlife garden in Flatford, near East Bergholt in Suffolk. We’re looking for people to help us welcome visitors to the garden for the summer months. This is a voluntary position, working as part of a friendly team. The role will involve the following: • Opening the garden in the morning • Being a smiling face to welcome and talk to visitors • Occasionally helping with children’s activities, such as pond dipping and owl pelleting • Some general simple tasks such as topping up bird feeders and tidying paths

For our June meeting we left our normal venue and drove in convoy to St Mary’s Church in Shotley, where Tim Crosbie gave a talk about the history and architecture of our church. St Mary´s is a strange building, looking more like a stone barn, built in the 14th century in what was then the centre of the village. When it was built it would have consisted of a nave, steeple and chancel. The chancel was rebuilt in the 18th century and two aisles were added in the 15th century either side of the nave, using the original Y shaped windows and stone. Stone was scarce in Suffolk. The stone, septaria, is building material which appears in many buildings around Suffolk, including Colchester Castle and Erwarton Church. It is formed from riverbed clay and is far from ideal. It tends to crumble, sizeable bits fall off, it leaches salt and attracts water. You will not be surprised to learn that during the 17th century the steeple collapsed. Now there is a little rhyme one soon learns when living in Shotley: “Shotley Church has no steeple, drunken vicar, rotten people.”

• Locking up at the end of the day You’ll be part of a team of volunteers who work on a flexible rota system, so you can give as much or as little time as you like. You will be fully trained and supported by staff and existing volunteers. This is a great opportunity to spend time in a friendly environment and a beautiful landscape, while knowing that you’re helping to really make a difference for nature. The garden is open to the public every day between 10.30am and 4.30pm, and is free to visit. For more information please visit: www.rspb.org.uk/flatford So if you’d like to find out more, please contact Clare for an informal chat: 01206 391153 / clare.westley@rspb.org.uk We’re looking forward to hearing from you!

STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB

After the collapse the people collected the funds to rebuild it, but unfortunately the vicar ran off with the money. I suppose ‘rotten people’ because they refused to make another collection. Since that time the church has been without a steeple.

John Field introduced us to The Treasures of Ipswich on July 4 and we held our summer buffet at the popular Haywain on July 18 when our spouses and Probus widows joined us for an enjoyable event and a tasty meal.

St Mary´s has an amazing ceiling, one of only seven in the world – a false hammerbeam roof. This construction of wooden vertical and horizontal beams and braces is designed to give the illusion of space. Finally we all decanted back into our cars for business and refreshments in the village hall.

We don’t meet in August and return on Wednesday, September 5 when Tracey Mackneww of the Giggly Pie Co will present her life story. Then on Wednesday, September 19, David Ablewhite will return to tell us about The Other Prince William. Norman Jacobs talks about Pie ’n’ Mash & Prefabs on October 3 and two weeks later on October 17, Sally Chicken’s talk is on The Regeneration of Shotley Pier.

We still have some spaces left on our coach for the Ghosts, Gallows and Gangsters outing to London on August 15 (see page 12). This explores crime and punishment and the darker side of the city, including the Krays’ and the Ripper’s East End, price £36. If you are interested in joining our WI we would love to see you at one of our meetings held in Shotley Village Hall at 7.15pm. Give us a try, we are a friendly bunch. Our next meeting is on September 19 when Izzy Ixer will be demonstrating yoga. For more information contact Jo Lee: 01473 787311

Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs and involve members at minimal cost. New members are welcomed. We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB at 10.30am. For further details please contact speaker secretary Dave Carman: 01255 880202

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OUT & ABOUT SOCIAL SEW-AND-SO’S July’s meet-up was quite quiet with holidays and something on TV to do with football! With a nice small and compact group of five of us, we were treated to seeing some silk painting. The colours looked fantastic! Poppies were being knitted, a bag being continued from last month, more unfinished objects (UFOs) from a rather large box full of UFOs were completed (the box is like a Tardis, it is still nowhere near empty!), and a ‘modern’ quilt were also on the go.

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The next few dates for your diaries are: August 4, September 1, October 6, November 10 and December 1. We meet at Harkstead Village Hall, currently from 9am-noon, but when the weather turns around October, we plan to stay open for longer. Come and join us for a tea/coffee with your craft project(s), or just pop in and be nosey! If you don’t know which project to bring, just fill your car and bring them all. Look forward to seeing you all. For further details, please contact Sarah: 01473 328692

SHOTLEY PENINSULA BRANCH A big thank you to Christine and Tony for hosting our annual garden party where fun, faith and fellowship was enjoyed. We were blessed with a lovely sunny afternoon, cream teas were served and a donation of £60 was sent to the Mothers’ Union Diocesan fund for the Summer of Hope appeal. This appeal could make a difference to many vulnerable people and communities, for example to provide education to children living in refugee camps in Northern Uganda where equipment is scarce, to provide support workers to coordinate a programme, provide school books and stationery. This month’s meeting is on Wednesday, August 1 at 2pm in St Andrew’s Church, Chelmondiston. This is our annual Wave of Prayer service, followed by refreshments and our usual social time. Everyone is available to join us for an opportunity to pray, sing and share with each other. We look forward to welcoming you! Should you require a lift please contact Christine (780621), Thelma (787660) or Pam (780796) who will be pleased to arrange.

EAST SUFFOLK ASSOCIATION FOR THE BLIND An independent and voluntary charitable organisation promoting the welfare of blind and visually impaired people in East Suffolk since 1914. Membership is free. We also hold a social on the last Wednesday of every month at Stutton Community Hall from 2-4pm when we provide entertainment, afternoon tea and a raffle, and twice a year we have a lunch at a local hotel. If you would like to join us, contact Ian, our community support worker, for more information: 01473 788380 We are always in need of volunteer drivers to assist us with our monthly social event. If interested please contact Barbara McDonald: 01473 328907 We are holding a Coffee Morning at Stutton Village Hall on Saturday, September 1, 10am-noon. Enjoy coffee and cakes, a raffle and a silent auction for a magnum of Champagne. All welcome, admission is free.

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OUT & ABOUT CRAFTERS UNLIMITED A craft club which meets on the first Monday of the month (except for bank holidays when it’s the following Monday). Saturday workshops (10am4pm) and Monday meetings (7.30-10pm) are held in Wherstead Village Hall Meeting Rooms. Monday, August 6: Ribbon Dragon Fly Greeting Card with Jill Samples of each project are displayed the month before and other projects are available. Contacts: Ann 01473 780298 / Jill 01473 713534

SCOUTING SUMMER I imagine that by the time you are reading this two weeks of the summer holidays have gone already. The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts have no doubt already used the words “I’m bored” and “There’s nothing to do”. Well, as a parent of three children I can honestly say that I have heard those words so many times, and my children are 19, 16 and 13. They are never too old for this solution though: playdough. Please find below a tried and tested recipe. You will need 8tbsp plain flour, 2tbsp salt, 60ml of warm water, food colouring and 1tbsp vegetable oil. Place the salt and flour into a mixing bowl, stir. Then in another bowl add the wet ingredients together. Then mix wet and dry ingredients together into a pliable dough. When finished playing with it, place in a zip lock sandwich bag and keep in the fridge for up to two days. If you are very adventurous you could make up lots of different coloured playdough. So what are you waiting for? Get out those pastry cutters and rolling pins! The leaders and I have had our planning meeting and what fantastic sessions we have planned for the September to December term. If you have a child/ren aged between five and three-quarters and 14 and you would like them to join the Scouting movement, please contact Jane: 01473 787416 Have a fantastic summer and hope to see you all in the autumn term. 1st Shotley Leaders

PENINSULA POETRY EVENING Our July meet-up was spent at my home, with the England game on silent in the background and snacks bought by some, with tea and coffee on hand for those that wanted it. It was a really lovely, homely evening and many, many poems were read. They were: My Family by Karen Smith, For a Child Expected by Anne Ridler, On the Birth of a Child by Su Tong Po, Walking Away by Cecil Day-Lewis, Father by Edger Guest, State the Nation by SA Kennedy, Two Children by Spike Milligan, Now I am Two by SA Kennedy, Challenges Ahead by SA Kennedy, Family from Crewe by Albert Smith, My Auntie Helen by Karen Smith, Families by Albert Smith, I’ll Be There by Louise Cuddon, Holding Hands by Rose Kelland, Cousin Kate by Christina Rossetti, From the Prophet by Kahlil Gibran, Separation, translated from Chinese by Arthur Whalley, Prayer before Birth by Louis MacNeice, Tesco Men by Brian Daldorph, The Lady of the Home by Richard Murphey, Mother of a Sunday by Jane Chevous, Lover and Husband by Lord Byron, The Passionate Shepherd by Christopher Marlowe, A Good Little Girl by A.A. Milne, Nicole by Rose Kelland, Lord Ullin’s Daughter by Thomas Campbell, Family by Ann Graham and Granny by Spike Milligan. Thank you to Jane Connell-Smith, Rose Kelland, Carrie Wheeler, Lin Howell and Karen Smith for joining me and making it such an enjoyable evening. Our next poetry evening is on Wednesday, August 8, and the (optional) theme is `messages`. We hope to see you there! Sharon

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OUT & ABOUT 1ST HOLBROOK BROWNIES All you need is a net, a bowl, a magnifying glass and being with your Brownie friends to have a thoroughly enjoyable evening in the sunshine. A wonderful array of watery creatures were spotted and inspected during our pond dipping evening. However, the Brownies were especially excited when two newts were discovered. Another adventure saw our Brownies venturing up (and down) the steep steps of Holbrook Church. It was well worth the effort as the girls had great fun ringing the huge bells. Thank you to the Holbrook bell ringers for a lovely evening. Once we were safely down we tried out a few versions of our Harry Potter songs in advance of our September sleepover. We really do need to get a better action for ‘nasty’ Voldemort though! The Brownies had the chance to let off plenty of energy as they slid, climbed and chased at Chantry Park. It is always particularly enjoyable to watch the girls creating their own fun and even more so watching them help each other to have fun. We have been so lucky this term to have beautifully warm, sunny evenings, but for our visit to Jimmy’s Farm we appreciated the cool shade of the woods. Firstly, Peter from Jimmy’s Farm taught us how to identify trees and then we were off to the woods for some very serious mini beast hunting with the farm’s antique spoon and creating fabulous woodland pictures. If your daughter or ward (aged between seven and 10) would like to enjoy a variety of activities, take part in new challenges, make lasting friendships and, above all, have lots of fun, please register your interest on Girlguiding UK. We have a waiting list so to avoid disappointment, register before they are of age; it’s never too soon!

SHOTLEY ERWARTON AND DISTRICT BRANCH, THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Commemorating 70 (official) years of Service and exServices support in Shotley, Chelmondiston and Erwarton On 10 August 1918 the Shotley and Erwarton Branch of the Royal British Legion was formed and since that day has helped many in the villages of Shotley Street, Shotley, Shotley Gate and Erwarton. Chelmondiston was absorbed by the branch several years ago and the Legion Branch has since helped in Chelmondiston where a need has arisen. Help ranged from a bunker of coal and Christmas food parcels to house alterations for disabled persons and debt counseling via Welfare Support (now called Poppy Support). Some of this can be found in the Legion book Keeping the Faith, which despite its clerical sounding name is about the history of the RBL. The Branch has supported the parishes at Remembrance with services and parades as well as the supply of wreaths, both for Remembrance and funerals for Service and ex-Service parishioners. The Legion Branch has also supported the commemoration of national events including the upcoming 100 anniversary of the Armistice, the centenary of the RAF, the 90th anniversary of the formation of the RBL in 2011, the 2007 Royal Netherlands Ambassadors visit (with the new branch secretary being surrounded by several ex-Naval personal and former Airborne soldiers and Airmen and downing a triple measure of undiluted rum ration) and other commemorative events. Below we see a picture from the VE & VJ Parade in 2015. This year the branch is supporting the Civic Commemorative Concert at Shotley Village Hall and encouraging parishioners of the three villages to become involved either in person, by donation, of by simply making poppies for the concert mast (for more on this visit the Branch website).

ORWELL DECORATIVE AND FINE ARTS SOCIETY We are now taking our usual summer break, but why not join us when our new season starts on Wednesday, September 5, when Rosalind Whyte will be giving a talk entitled 250 Years of the Royal Academy.

The Branch committee and officers would like to thank all who have helped in the past, present and in the future. It has been a glorious and eventful 70 years so far! And no, the Branch treasurer and I were not at its inauguration, but we hope others will take up the mantle when we move on. Please remember you do not have to have been in the Armed Forces, Regular or Reserve to join the RBL. You just need the wish to help those who gave a blank cheque, with no restrictions, to the country and said “I will Serve.” Branch Chairman Brian Ives

In 2018, The Royal Academy of Arts celebrates its 250th anniversary. We will look at the position of artists in London before and after the formation of the academy in 1768 and some of the characters involved, including the first president, Sir Joshua Reynolds. Like any important institution, the academy has been embroiled in intrigue and controversy over the course if its history and no scandal or outrage will remain unexposed! We shall be holding our second informal study day at Rushmere Village Hall on Friday, September 7, when the subject will be Feisty Ladies – Women Travellers from Victorian Britain. Roger Mitchell, the speaker who made last year’s study day so memorable, will once again be entertaining us with a fascinating look at those intrepid women from days gone by. We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Talks last about an hour, commencing at 2.15pm, with tea and coffee served from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have enough space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 spaces. Please contact Wendy Robbins in advance on 01394 823807 to check if there is available space. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

SHOTLEY WHIST DRIVE Our whist drives for August are on Thursdays 9 and 23, both 1.50pm to 4pm. We play 12 games of whist before refreshments, mostly home-made cakes, and a draw, followed by 12 more games. We pay out on various games and as this has been going well for over 20 years, we do very well. In fact, we are the only whist drive in the peninsula to survive. If you require any more information, please contact Norman or Eileen: 01473 787358

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SCHOOLS / SPORT 1ST SAMFORD VALLEY SCOUT GROUP

STUTTON C OF E PRIMARY SCHOOL What a difference a year makes! This time last year we were very concerned about the future of our school – but now: • we have a fantastic Ofsted inspection report, which endorses the hard work and dedication of our staff, governors, parents and the school community • the future of the school is secure, having become a part of ASSET Education • we are planning events for the future • we are most definitely a growing school! The KS2 trip to Aylmerton Field Study Centre was again very successful. Mud-walking across the River Glaven to Blakeney Point and seeing the seals is always one of the highlights of my year! We postponed our Stutton Fest because of England’s success in the World Cup! It will now take place Saturday, September 29 (4-6pm). Our summer camp took place on the school field. Staff, families and friends of the school enjoyed a fantastic evening of music and rounders in the dark! What a great way to celebrate a very successful year. We had a busy end of term with a visit to Frinton beach, demonstrating our various skills during sports day and ensuring that our Y6 leavers had a great send off. Looking ahead – we will be contributing to the Vote100 celebration, celebrating 100 years since women gained the right to vote, as well as joining forces with the village community on Friday, September 28 for the Macmillan Coffee Morning. We have enjoyed working more closely with Stutton Toddler Group and are looking forward to welcoming the Rising Fives from Stutton Young Explorers into our school three mornings a week.

We have all been enjoying the warm evenings to get out and about around the peninsula. Beavers have been down to the allotments to grow tomatoes and other veggies, we completed our sponsored bike ride and have had our fake camp involving cooking on an open fire, putting up tents and making beds. This is all in preparation for our real camp at Hallowtree at the end of the month. The Scouts have had a busy few months. At the end of last term we were invited by the Royal Hospital School to use their climbing wall where the Scouts received expert instruction from school staff. The Scouts had a very positive experience and we thank the RHS and staff for allowing us this opportunity and looking after us so well. This term we have continued our adventurous training by kayaking every week at the Cattawade. The Scouts have developed some good kayaking skills and some are taking part in a two-day canoe trip down the Stour from Sudbury to Cattawade in a couple of weeks time. Unfortunately, due to a shortage of qualified leaders, this is the only camp the Scouts will be doing over the summer holiday, but we have plans to attend the District Camp in September and also Winter Camp in 2019. Our Scout numbers are around 20 plus, but there is always room for more young people. If you are, or know of, a young person who is interested please get in touch. Similarly if any adult or young adult is looking for a rewarding challenge to drag you away from the TV, PC or games consul on Friday evenings (Scouts) or Wednesday evenings (Cubs) please get in touch. Scouting is a truly worthwhile and rewarding contribution to our local community. As our founder Baden Powell said: “The real way to gain happiness is to give it to others.” If you are interested in volunteering to help with Cubs, Scouts or in a more behind the scenes role as group treasurer, we would love to hear from you! Please contact juliawalshaw@hotmail.com who will put you in touch with the one of the group leaders.

I referred to the importance of creating memorable moments for our children in our last In Touch article; this often involves taking them out and about. It is during these times when we rely on our children’s positive attitudes and behaviour. We have received some heart-warming feedback from various people and organisations throughout this year, the most recent received from a member of the Bikeability team: “I just want to say how delightful it has been to work with your pupils. Small things, such as always patiently raising a hand when they wished to ask a question, made them a pleasure to teach. It was great fun to work with a bunch of children whose strengths had been identified and emphasised. The school has a particularly friendly, welcoming atmosphere that is apparent as soon as one steps over the threshold.” One of our newer parents posted the following feedback on our internal school blog after our summer camp: “What an awesome school, filled to the brim with wonderful people – so happy to be a part of it. Thank you for making us so welcome.” Thank you to everyone who has supported Stutton Primary School this year. Your support has been so very much appreciated. Onwards and upwards! Anne Clarke http://stuttonprimary.school

What an idyllic river we have the good fortune to live so close to! Club members enjoyed their annual BBQ in beautiful weather. This particular event is normally beset by wind and rain, so this year was really special. This is a time for partying and cruising to other beautiful spots on the East Coast including Walton Backwaters, Brightlingsea, Wrabness and the Deben. On our own patch, we will be enjoying a wine tasting and BBQ in August. For more action and entertainment visit: www.pmsc.org.uk / Facebook: PMSCSocial

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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS

SHOTLEY CARPET BOWLS CLUB A new season in the winter league begins with our first roll-up on Monday, August 20. We will be hoping for some new members this season, so why give it a try? It’s good fun with a friendly atmosphere and tea and biscuits thrown in. For more information contact Paul Catchpool: 01473 788829

EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB Pre-season training got under way in the July heat, inspired by England’s first ever penalty shootout victory. The First Team season kicks off on August 18, with the Reserves following on August 25, and the A team on September 1. We are delighted to announce that recently retired from playing stalwart Andrew Peck, has agreed to take over as A Team manager. We are always looking for people who can help the club as committee members, whether it be on the playing side or just in the background. If you would like to sponsor the club in some capacity we would also be delighted to hear from you. Club strips, dugouts, banners or boards on matchdays are all potential exposure for your business while supporting a local organisation. Steve Butcher: stevebutcher55@btinternet.com

Large groups at Neptune We recently have had some very large groups at Neptune. We were very lucky to receive a grant from the ANOB for 10 additional small buoyancy aids. This has enabled us to increase the size of the groups, especially with primary schools, enabling youngsters to become aware of the natural beauty of the river and surrounding area, during taster sailing sessions.

TWO RIVER BENEFICE SERVICES ST PETER’S, STUTTON August 5

8am

Holy Communion

August 12 9.30am

Holy Communion

August 19 9.30am

Holy Communion

August 26

Informal Service

11am

The groups were:

ALL SAINTS, HOLBROOK

Bramford Junior School: We had 31 pupils afloat very enthusiatic comments from pupils and staff a repeat visit has been requested.

August 5

August 12 10am

Matins

Scouts: We had two groups of 22 Scouts throughout the Saturday session. Again this went very well and future visits requested.

August 19

8am

Holy Communion

10am

Informal Service

RYA Dinghy Instructor Course

August 26 9.30am

4pm

Afternoon Tea

Holy Communion

ST MARY’S, WHERSTEAD August 5

No service

August 12

11am

Holy Communion

August 19 No Service August 26 11am

Informal Service

ST PETER’S, FRESTON August 5

11am

Matins

August 12 No service August 19 11am This five-day course is one of the largest we have run at Neptune with 12 candidates. The majority had been with us at Neptune from beginner to now potential instructor. This is a recognised teaching qualification. The course is run by RYA coaches and an additional third party coach will assess the candidates and agree who has been sucsessful. A critical part of the course involves the candidates demonstrating their skills by instructing beginners and also giving a presentation and written papers. We were very pleased that Chelmondiston Primary School agreed to us using 24 of their pupils to act as guinea pigs. The additional instructors will enable us to continue to operate using the new young instructors who have been through the Neptune system. This is extremally satisfying. Again, the use of the additional buoyancy aids made this possible. Additional schools taster sessions to be arranged. We intend to get other peninsula schools on taster sails as we did last year – this has to be arranged. Book now for summer courses Our summer courses are filling up fast. There are still vacancies available. For information and booking details visit: www.neptunesailing.org.uk

www.keepingintouchwith.com/shotley

Holy Communion

August 26 No service ST MICHAEL’S, WOOLVERSTONE August 5

10am

Holy Communion

11am

Café Church

August 11

9am-12.30pm

Monthly Market

August 12 11am August 19

11am

August 26 11am

Worship the Woolverstone Way: Pet Service Morning Prayer Holy Communion

THE PENINSULA BAPTIST CHURCH Pin Mill Road, Chelmondiston IP9 1JE We invite you to join us on Sunday morning at 10.30am or Sunday evening at 6pm. FIND US, FIND COMMUNITY, FIND LIFE Contact Dave Kelland: 01473 788441 / 07970 312705

CHURCH NEWS CHELMONDISTON & HOLBROOK METHODIST CHURCHES

could share in the worship, I felt part of the family. We have one Father God. Wherever I have been, I have found people with whom I can worship and discover new brothers and sisters in Christ.

R&R AND HOLIDAYS I am a bit of a workaholic. Some may question the word ‘bit’, but I love my job and I get paid to do it (not a huge salary, but enough). As someone from Workaholic’s Quotes puts it, “If loving your job qualifies you as a workaholic, then yes, I am one for sure!”

If you are off on holiday soon, enjoy, be who you are without pretence, even get to know the real you and not the mask you put on at times, and I invite you to discover God all around you.

I trained as an engineer, after four years I became a chartered engineer – I loved my job – but I also loved the volunteering I was doing in the church. I probably worked over 40 hours per week as an engineer and over 20 hours a week as a volunteer. In 1978 (40 years ago), I went back to university and was trained as a church leader. I now do over 50 hours per week for the church and probably an additional 20 hours volunteering for the church or community. I still love the opportunities. I am privileged to be able to say I have loved all the very different places where I have worked as an engineer, minister and volunteer (Coventry, Northampton, Bristol, Zimbabwe, The Wirral, Downham Market and now Suffolk). I also love holidays and rest and recovery periods. I am planning for a holiday and then planning to go part time in September and planning a sabbatical next year. I could be retired, but many retired people I know are busier in retirement. I’ve got many volunteers in my churches who are retired, and they are so busy they wonder how they had time to work. So I’m going to work part time, to give me some extra hours for visiting and supporting our extended family, to read books from my extensive library, to write to explore the countryside, to research my family tree, perhaps even get the garden into better shape. I saw on the internet that mind mapping is now being used for holiday planning, people listing those things that are important and linking them so that it happens. I haven’t done that yet, but meeting family and friends, exploring this amazing world, worship as well as rest and recovery are all part a parcel of who I am and will also be part of the holiday. I know I am in Cornwall on the first Sunday and I will know a handful of people worshipping there. On the second Sunday, it’s unlikely I will know anyone except the one we worship, Jesus. When I worked in Sweden as a student engineer, I didn’t even know the language on the first Sunday I went to the local church, but I

Rev Andrew Sankey, Minister at Chelmondiston & Holbrook Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 AT CHELMONDISTON METHODIST Sunday 5 10.45am Worship with Rev Michael Allen 6.15pm Music & Song – Country & Gospel / Mary Sagar Sunday 12 10.45am Worship with Mr Roger Fern 6.15pm Music & Song – The Peninsular Singers / Rev Sankey Sunday 19 10.45am Worship and Communion with Rev Andrew Sankey 6.15pm Music & Song – The Masson Family Sunday 26 10.45am Worship with Mr Harry Chicken 6.15pm Music & Song – The Male Voice Choir / Rev Sankey Lay Pastor and Outreach Worker Rachael Wainwright: 01473 603616 AT HOLBROOK METHODIST (HCT Holbrook Churches Together) Tea and Chat (HCT): Mondays, 2.30-4pm Home Groups: Not meeting in August Saturday 4 10-11.30am Coffee Morning Sunday 5 10am Worship with Rev Michael Ayden 6.15pm At Chelmondiston (see above) Sunday 12 10am Worship and Communion with Rev Sankey 6.15pm At Chelmondiston (see above) Sunday 19 10am Worship with Mr Mike Castle 6.15pm At Chelmondiston (see above) Sunday 26 10am Worship with Mr Chris Jowett 6.15pm At Chelmondiston (see above) Please see the noticeboard on the front of the chapel for all events in November. For more information about Messy Church, Tiddlers and Family Live (HCT) contact Alicia Holmes: ajnholmes@gmail.com / 01473 658478

SHORELINE BENEFICE ST ANDREW’S CHELMONDISTON

ST MARY’S HARKSTEAD

August 5

9.15am Holy Communion The Rev Canon L Oosterhof

August 5

9.30am Holy Communion The Rev D Newton

August 12

9.15am Holy Communion with Harkstead The Rev T Crosbie

August 12

9.15am Holy Communion at Chelmondiston The Rev T Crosbie

August 14

10am Tuesday Midweek Communion The Rev Canon L Oosterhof

August 19

9.30am Holy Communion with Chelmondiston The Rev Canon L Oosterhof

August 19

9.30am Holy Communion at Harkstead The Rev Canon L Oosterhof

August 26

9.30am Holy Communion The Rev Canon C Chapman

August 26

9.30am All-Age Family Worship Mrs C Ward

ST MARY’S SHOTLEY

ST MARY’S ERWARTON

August 5

10.45am Shotley Family@Church Mr A Coulson

August 5

11am Holy Communion BCP The Rev Canon L Oosterhof

August 12

10.45am Holy Communion The Rev Canon L Oosterhof

August 12

4pm Special Songs of Praise & Tea The Rev Canon L Oosterhof

August 19

11am Holt Communion BCP at Erwarton The Rev Canon L Oosterhof

August 19

11am Holy Communion BCP with Shotley The Rev Canon L Oosterhof

August 26

10.45am Holy Communion with Erwarton The Rev T Crosbie

August 26

10.45am Holy Communion at Shotley The Rev T Crosbie

Please check church websites and noticeboards for any changes to services.

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ROYAL HOSPITAL SCHOOL HOLBROOK CHORAL SOCIETY

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Have you ever sat in the audience during a performance of Handel’s ‘Messiah’ and thought, ‘I wish I was singing’?

Have you ever listened to Mozart’s ‘Requiem’ and wondered ‘wow, where could I sing that’? Well, search no more!

Holbrook Choral Society are a friendly, sociable group of people who enjoy singing and making music together. You can be assured of a warm welcome - all you need to do is turn up to rehearsals at the Royal Hospital School Music School on Monday evenings. The first rehearsal back after the summer holidays is Monday 17 September at 7.30pm.

Previous experience of singing is useful, but we welcome beginners. We have all levels of ability in the choir - so don’t feel intimidated if you want to just turn up and have a go! WE DO NOT AUDITION NEW MEMBERS!

For more information please contact the Music School music@royalhospitalschool.org or 01473 326222