In Touch with Gt Blakenham - April 2016

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with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead Volume 6 • Issue No. 6 • APRIL 2016

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Blue tit by Peter Cutts Fundraising concert in aid of the Osiligi Project in Kenya.

An evening for all the family with members of the College’s jazz band and Prep School pupils also performing.

with East Anglia’s Premier Big Band

HORN FACTORY

Friday 22nd April 2016 7.30pm - 10pm at St Joseph’s College Senior School, Belstead Road Ipswich IP2 9DR Tickets £14 (£7 under 16’s) Including Food (Bread, Cheese & Chutney) Licensed Bar serving Beer, Wine & Soft Drinks

Book online @ www.redrosechain.com

Profits from this event will be donated to the St Joseph’s College Developing World Project, assisting their students to run a two-week summer school in Kenya.

Trusted by local families since 1925 47 St Helens Street 01473 257242 283 Norwich Road 01473 232837 Meredith Greengrass Stowmarket 01449 612765

The East of England Co-op has been your local funeral service for 90 years.

We are not part of the national Co-operative Funeralcare chain based in Manchester.

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR In a month when many of us will celebrate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s 90th birthday I will also be thinking about another wonderful lady who has had an incredible impact on those who have known and loved her, my husband’s Grandma Ida. Sadly she is no longer with us but I think of her often and invariably find myself smiling when I do.

Ida wasn’t just a perfect grandma, she was the life and soul of the party. There are too many stories to recount here, but Daniel often talks about playing Sardines with his then 83-year-old grandma who deviously abandoned the search and hid herself away in the shower, patiently waiting for her grandchildren to realise the game had taken an unexpected turn!

Ida was the first older person I ever developed a genuine relationship with and I can honestly say she changed me for the better. She stirred both my curiosity and my respect. Meeting someone who was born 70, 80 or 90 years ago can be fascinating if you take the time to get to know them. In doing so you too will come to appreciate the fact that age in itself is a mark of achievement! Just imagine how many challenges and changes an 80-year-old has encountered and overcome, how many moments of despair and possibly even heartbreak they may have endured.

The technological revolution is one of the most significant challenges my generation has encountered. Ida faced and overcame far more serious challenges and still had a twinkle in her eye at 90. Perhaps we need to remind ourselves now and again just how lucky we are (most of the time) and to acknowledge that a lack of interest in or respect for older people speaks volumes about our own character.

Enjoy the celebrations and take a moment to consider how you might like to be treated when you ‘are old and grey and full of sleep’ (WB Yeats).

In Touch

with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead

In Touch with Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead is 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: blakenham@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.

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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 Baylham, Gt. & Lt. Blakenham & Nettlestead is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

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NEWS THE STERLING SUFFOLK GLASSHOUSE PROJECT You may have heard recently that the glasshouses are no longer to be supplied with heat from the Energy from Waste Facility in Great Blakenham.

Fulfilling planning conditions, particularly archaeology, has taken longer than expected. Uncertainty as to whether the glasshouses will be ready to take heat by the current government subsidy deadline of March 2017, has resulted in the decision to not undertake the necessary but costly adaptation of the Energy from Waste plant.

Despite this, the participants remain determined to deliver a green and environmentally friendly project, growing tomatoes using sustainable energy sources.

Inability to take heat from Suez/SCC is disappointing, but has some positive effects. It enables Sterling Suffolk Ltd to phase the glasshouses which helps the investment profile, reduces the training demand and relieves the time pressure. We intend to commence preparatory work on site by the end of the year.

The overall shape of the project will not change. The scheme always envisaged stand-by boilers to deal with Energy from Waste facility shutdowns. These boilers will become the primary provision.

The glasshouse design will have the same external appearance but will utilise the most up-to-date energy efficiency features. This will reduce the demand for heat.

A mixed portfolio of heat sources is highly likely to include: Biomass boilers Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) Biomass CHP Additionally, roof mounted solar panels will be able to supplement grid power in providing the electrical needs of the glasshouses and driving the ground source heat pumps.

Biomass boilers, GSHP, biomass CHP and PV cells all attract renewable support. In aggregate, these changes provide a business case which can match the one based on heat supply from the Energy from Waste facility.

These changes do not rule out future connections to the Energy from Waste facility. The glasshouse project will be a significant district energy node, capable of linking to other providers and consumers.

Cliff Matthews, CEO Sterling Suffolk

2016 HERO RIDE Is anyone interested in cycling to the Imperial War Museum for breakfast on July 3 as part of the 2016 Hero Ride? A group of us are leaving in the ‘wee small hours’ to be part of this Help for Heroes fundraiser.

As things stand at the moment we have a van and driver to return with the bikes (no cycling back unless you want to!) and some of the team are organising a return coach.

This is not a race but a social cycle with a few laughs chucked in along the way I’m sure, and regular grub stops to keep everyone fully fuelled.

Please contact me if you fancy the idea. It’s a special year for me as its 25 years since I was involved in the first Gulf War so I know what a difference organisations like Help for Heroes make.

Andy White 01473 830135 / 07854 876722 / wandywhite216@aol.com

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NEWS BIRTHDAY TEA PARTY AT BAYLHAM VILLAGE HALL Sunday, April 24 at 3pm Join us in celebrating the Queen’s birthday Tickets £6 Please book in advance from

BAYLHAM PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL Clive Jones has had three trips to China and Tibet and has visited many areas, including the Great Wall, and taught in a school in Beijing. He will be giving a talk on his experiences on Tuesday, April 19, in Baylham church at 7.30pm. Do come along and hear him.

Tickets are £5, including refreshments. Contact Wendy: 01473 832885

Wendy (01473 830615) or Petrova (01473 831134)

LITTLE BLAKENHAM PARISH COUNCIL THE QUEEN’S 90th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS In April Queen Elizabeth II will become the first reigning British monarch to reach the age of 90.

Little Blakenham Parish Council would like to celebrate this milestone by holding a party in June for residents of the parish.

The parish council is asking for volunteers to plan and organise this event.

If you would like to be involved, please contact Janet Gobey, the parish clerk: littleblakenhampc@outlook.com / 01473 833520.

STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • Coffee ‘n’ Cake networking Friday, April 1, 10am-noon, at Needham Market Community Centre. You’d be “foolish” to miss it!

• Networking Breakfast Friday, April 15, 6.45am, at Stowmarket Golf Club Book online at: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk Coming in June, our latest in the Learn, Laugh and Loiter series will be all about taking care of your customers. Watch out for details. Sign up for our e-newsletter via the website for updates on all our activities.

COUNTY & DISTRICT COUNCILLOR’S REPORT John Field’s Report to Gipping Valley: March 2016 Grants I have received further requests for locality funds to help local groups and have supported Bramford Bowls Club, St Peter’s 60+ Club in Claydon, Great Blakenham Parish Room, Gipping Valley Bowls Club and, last but not least, the Loraine Victory Hall.

Greenhouses It’s sad to see the plan to use waste heat from the incinerator halted. I feel the county has made little effort to push the Little Blakenham Common Greenhouse project ahead with speed to meet green subsidy deadlines. Its refusal to risk any public money has not helped.

The county talk about being entrepreneurial and risk taking but do not walk the walk. It is difficult to understand why combined heat and power schemes like this are such a success throughout Europe but not in Great Britain. The promise from Sterling Suffolk is the project will continue and Gipping Valley will still get 200 new jobs, but this county failure destroys the logic behind the associated planning decisions.

Devolution (probably signed by the time you read this) We now have Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridge involved, the latter reluctant to join but under government pressure to do so. The larger combined authority would benefit from Cambridge’s world-class organisations and university and become a major eastern economic powerhouse.

The draft shorthand view for leaders to consider is rather large so I won’t try to reveal all. In brief, proposals for an infrastructure investment fund of some £75m a year, devolution of transport

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budgets at £200m a year and a housing investment fund of £175m a year among other funds are beginning to look large enough to make the disruption of devolution worthwhile.

At last we are beginning to see some detail and where progress is being made.

One important question is how devolved power will be exercised. The government’s wish for an elected mayor is still something people appear to be quietly accepting but hoping will go away. The need for some form of democratic overview and constraint on a mayor appears essential. The proposal is that the current public leaders group, the leaders and chief executives of the current authorities and business leaders from the LEP will do the job. The council majority groups elect leaders so there is some democracy but will this be sufficient? I am not convinced.

Broadband We need to get on with the rollout plan to spend the £3.9m gained from high take up in the first broadband contract. The government has agreed with the EU that there must be a one-month consultation, finishing on April 8.

It must show that no commercial plans exist in the areas we plan to target. We may then complete the rollout plan contract with BT. A map on the website will shade out all areas of the 95% coverage currently planned: commercial, first public funded contract and all postcodes targeted with the public extension funding. Another colour will highlight the areas where the additional £3.9m will be re-invested to add a further approximately 2% coverage.

This map will change as plans are finalised.

The £30m Superfast Extension Programme is progressing. To date 35 cabinets have been enabled reaching more than 3,000 premises.

The target is 1,000 cabinets and 50,000 premises by the end of 2019.

Future of Specialist Educational Provision in Suffolk The recent Options Review produced a very large number of responses. These included a number of new options for specialist support centres, for residential provision in special schools, and alternative provision in pupil referral units. The next stage is for the county to develop formal proposals for consultation, taking into account the information, alternative ideas and suggestions collected in the review.

Consultation should occur in June and a decision in mid-September.

The EU Referendum June 23 is the date for a vital decision that will affect the lives of us all. A major problem will be presenting real information on a complex subject as clearly as possible. We must help people decide if a leap in the dark is justified by the belief that others dictate the compromises we currently make for the common good. Just shouting our personal prejudices or working for our own advantage will not help anyone come to a clear choice as to where our best interests lie.

The next two months will be noisy and confusing, but vitally important. I hope to help with clear information on our websites.

If you have queries please contact me: 01473 831306 /john.field@suffolk.gov.uk www.john.field@suffolk.libdems.org

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NEWS DAVID CARD, MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLOR

Covering the parishes of Barking, Baylham, Darmsden, Nettlestead, Offton, Somersham and Willisham Housing Growth There is mounting pressure for more new homes to be built across the country in general and Suffolk in particular. Information is emerging from the Suffolk Devolution bid that Suffolk is expecting some 70,000 more new homes to be built from now to 2031. Mid Suffolk have 3½ years land supply and so fall short of the government’s five-year target. While funding from central government block grant reduces, a new income stream is available called New Homes Bonus. Councils may receive about £1,000, paid annually for six years for each new home built. Another new income source is CIL developer payments that seek to raise about £10,000 per new home towards providing the community infrastructure necessary to support a sustainable lifestyle.

The Mid Suffolk Local Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) 2016 has been completed. Work is ongoing regarding the ‘clustering’ of parishes and the scale of developments envisaged by planners from each of these ‘clusters’. It is envisaged that the current level of home completions requires a 37% increase from around 400 to 550 new homes in Mid Suffolk each year till 2031.

Communities could wait and react to each individual planning application as it arises, or look proactively at what they want (or don’t want) now in their own neighbourhoods. Many communities already have plans.

These may need to be reviewed in the light of concerns about the impact this scale of housing growth may have for Suffolk.

Community Led Planning is an alternative and simpler scheme to the Neighbourhood Plans where communities may set out their aims for their parishes Affordable Homes to Rent One of my election address priorities sought to help younger residents onto the housing ladder. Mid Suffolk DC and their partners will shortly be offering brand new affordable rented homes. Three for rent properties are in the course of construction in Barking right now.

Anyone interested in a tenancy should register with Gateway to Home Choice: 01473 825757 / homechoice@midsuffolk.gov.uk / www.gatewaytohomechoice.org.uk Devolution The government’s Devolution Bill now has Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough still meeting behind closed doors to consider a bid. It is expected that this thinking will be made public shortly. Whatever emerges must bring tangible benefits to Suffolk. Ideas for an East Anglian mayor have featured in leaked newspaper reports.

For further information contact David Card: 01449 722267 / david.card@midsuffolk.gov.uk

GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH ROOM Hire rates for Great Blakenham Parish Room are very reasonable.

The main hall is approximately 42ft long and 19.5ft wide (13 x 8 mtrs) and is able to hold 100 people, or 60 if seated.

It is ideal for meetings, small parties and gatherings and can be hired between 9am and 11pm.

The kitchen is fully equipped with a fridge, oven, microwave oven, electric kettles, crockery and cutlery, perfect for making hot drinks and snacks.

There is a car park and small, grassed area with patio, to the rear of the hall.

For details of our fees, conditions of hire and to book please contact Paul or Jane Corbett: 01473 830201

www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham

SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE FACILITY Emissions We have been getting reports of ‘black smoke’, but would like to reassure local residents there is nothing sinister coming from our chimney – just the usual water vapour.

A trick of the light can sometimes make this appear black, but if we were emitting anything we shouldn’t it would soon show up on our continuous monitoring system. To get black smoke, particulate levels would have to be high. In fact, they have been practically zero since we began operating.

Our emissions limits are set by the Environment Agency so that even if our emissions were right up to the limit all of the time there would be no impact on local people or the environment. During normal operations our emissions are well below the limit and the Environment Agency, who monitor the site, have no concerns about emissions from our chimney.

Shut-down We are preparing for a routine shut-down which will take place between April 10-24 to allow for essential maintenance and cleaning. Work on the two lines will be staggered, so waste will continue to be processed throughout this period. There should be no impact on the local community.

RIBA award We are delighted Gimshaw has been short-listed for a Royal Institute of British Architects award for their design of this facility. A record 25 projects have been short-listed in this region and the winners will be announced on April 14.

Suffolk Show SUEZ will be joining Suffolk County Council waste staff at this year’s Suffolk Show – see us there on June 1 and 2. www.sitatrust.org USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Evironment Agency: 0800 807060 SITA Trust: 01454 262910

SOMERSHAM/CHALLAIN-LA-POTHERIE VILLAGE LINK

The next visit to our link village of Challainla-Potherie in the Loire Valley area of

France will be during the first May Bank Holiday of the year, from Friday, April 29 to Monday, May 2, and there’s still time to join.

We travel by comfortable coach from Somersham to Challain where we stay with host families and all of our accommodation, food and entertainment is provided. There is always a good mix of English and French on these occasions and language does not present a problem. We welcome people from our surrounding villages to join with us. The cost is the price of the coach divided by all who go along, so the more who go the less cost.

It’s a fantastic group of people who go from our local villages and we’d love to have new people of all ages, either individuals or families, join our next trip. Over the time we have been going to Challain we have had all ages, the youngest being three years old and the oldest being 80, and everybody in between.

So if you’d like to know more please contact one of the following: Gill Fordham, 831529; David Haughton, 831511; Janet Hodge, 832296; Pat Woolhouse, 831080

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OUT & ABOUT GREAT BLAKENHAM CRAFT CLUB

DOGGY DAY

The club meets every Monday other than Bank Holidays in the Parish Room from 2-4pm. Members pay £2 a meeting to cover hall hire, refreshments, the workshop goody bag and weekly raffle prizes.

Great Blakenham Parish Room

Our March workshop was entitled It’s a Gift. Members were given a plain gift bag and an assortment of paper and embellishments to decorate it. An inexpensive present can be made to look so special in this way.

A day devoted to dogs and the goodies they like, toys they might like to play with and practical things like winter coats and nutrition advice.

Our programme for 2016 is below, but I give no clues as to the project.

April 4: Just a Note May 16: Fly Away Peter, Fly Away Paul June 6: Cats and Dogs July 4: Butterflies and flowers August 15: Always need storage September 5: Lovely in Lace October 3: New Baubles, Mind the Furniture November 7: Getting ready for Christmas December 5: Christmas Party

Saturday, July 16, 10am-3pm

There will be competitions for the waggiest tail (11-11.30am), cutest puppy (1-1.30pm), and best behaved dog (2-2.30pm). There will also be a doggie tombola and raffle with prizes for your pet.

Refreshments will be available all day, including morning tea, coffee and cakes, light lunches and afternoon tea and scones.

If you are interested in having a stall or attending this fun event, please contact Wendy Hooper: 07710 508792 / wendydhooper@gmail.com

There is currently room for new members; if are interested in joining us please get in touch. Although the club is all ladies at present gentlemen are welcome, but I cannot accommodate children.

Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

BRAMFORD ART GROUP We have now moved into the Loraine Victory Hall and at present we are able to invite more budding artists and beginners to join our group.

We meet every Wednesday from 10am to 12.30pm; the cost is currently £10 a month, so just £2.50 per session.

For further details please contact Ann Woolnough on 01473 743794 or come along and meet us any Wednesday after 10am.

Henley Community Centre Friday 3rd June 7:30pm Saturday 4th June 2:30pm & 7:30pm

01473833226

SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY SHOP A community shop for the local community, run by the local community The Playing Field, Princes Gardens, Somersham / 01473 833416 Opening Times: Monday to Friday 8am-6pm / Saturday 8am-1pm Hooray for the Vollies! Where would we be without the volunteers?

No shop for sure! The work they do in the shop is invaluable to our local community. They keep the shelves filled and they do a great job in welcoming customers to our lovely community shop. It’s not only volunteers who are needed to make a successful shop – it’s customers as well. So thanks to all of those who support us to make this worthwhile project the hub of the community, and if you haven’t yet been to the shop, do pop in and see the wide range of goods offered, you will be made very welcome.

Sadly, we have to report a break-in in February. Fortunately not a lot was taken, but damage caused to the fabric was considerable, and although insured, we now have to cover the excess cost. What a mean thing to happen when the shop is there for the community. Again, our lovely customers and volunteers have come to our aid and contributions have been coming in to help with the costs incurred, some as straightforward donations and some wishing to buy shares in the shop that is run as a Community Interest Company.

Talking of shares, it is possible to buy shares in the shop at a cost of £5 each. These are non-profit making shares which, unlike conventional shares, do not have an annual dividend paid since we are not allowed to do this under the terms of a CIC, but they are a gesture of support for the shop and help with running and maintenance costs. Please ask in the shop if you are interested.

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It’s been a pleasure to meet up with everybody during the winter months at the tea and chat afternoons, but now with the warmer weather arriving, the Coffee Caravan will be continuing its summer service with its tea, coffee, cake and information once a month on the green at Brook Way. So a chance to catch up with others for tea and a chat is there, and we will see everybody again in the shop later in the year. The Coffee Corner is there still of course, so if you fancy a hot or cold drink and a piece of cake do call by.

Seasonal produce will be in the shop during the summer, as well as the regular essential goods and household needs. Fresh bread and cakes, vegetables, eggs and meat and pies are all sourced locally, and in anticipating nice warm weather ahead the ice cream cabinet will be well stocked as well. Our new line of locally brewed beer is going well, also the cider and wine so come and try those if you haven’t already.

And remember, orders can be taken for bread, meat and cakes, so if you are wanting something regularly or for a special occasion you can order them.

If you would like to join our mailing list to get updates on what is happening in the shop, send an email to somershamshop@btinternet. com or fill in a slip, which can be found in the shop. This way you will be kept up-to-date on events, new products, and promotions. We have a Facebook page too, so have a look at that as well. Our other services include: the coffee corner, book exchange, a dry-cleaning service, vvillage diary so dates don’t clash, delivery to those with mobility difficulties and newspapers can be ordered for collection at the shop.

Management team: Lucy Barrett, 831890; Terry Fordham, 831529; Jenny Hitchcock, 832060; Peter Jousiffe, 833577; Anne MacFadyen, 831288; Steve Woolhouse, 831080

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OUT & ABOUT CLAYDON & BARHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE Claydon & Barham Community Centre has a hall with a stage that provides a versatile space for up to 120 guests. Also there is an adjoining members lounge which can be added to accommodate up to a further 60 people. There is also an additional room that is suitable for meetings, christenings and smaller parties. We have darts boards and a pool table available and offer viewing of major sporting events.

The had a full range of events in March, some organised by the community centre and other private events and bookings. The hall, lounge and Compton Room have seen a steady increase in bookings. This has included a number of fundraising events for Claydon Football Club, the Criticle Care Unit, the Air Ambulance, pre-school, and many others.

The community centre has helped to support these and a great many other organisations.

FUTURE EVENTS Saturday, May 7: Dolly Parton tribute act supported by Tim Staff. An evening of country music entertainment.

July 9: to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday this year we are holding a Gala Day at the club and in the school playing field.

At the annual general meeting of Claydon & Barham Local Community Trust Limited held on February 9, a motion was passed by the membership to increase membership subscriptions. There has not been an increase in these rates for more than 10 years and the motion was discussed at length. The resultant motion was approved and agreed to take effect at the next membership renewal, due by the end of June 2016.

The following was agreed: Single adult aged 18-60: £15 / Single adult over 60: £7.50 / Couple under 60/family ticket: £25 / Couple over 60: £12.50 Membership entitles you to a significant reduction in hall hire charges and also many of the community centre events are at a reduced cost for members. We have a wide and varied range of ales, ciders and lagers, both draft and bottled. Also available is Guinness and mild and our premium lager, San Miguel, is now on tap. We have pints of bitter starting from just £2.50 a pint, and lager from just £2.90.

Do you enjoy fundraising? Event organisation? Gardening? Building maintenance? Do you have a little spare time? You don’t need to have specific skills. If your willing and able to help then we would love to hear from you. We are here for you as a community and have been operating for over 30 years. We intend being here for at least another 30 years but need your help and support. If your interested in offering your help please contact Michelle at the community centre either by popping in, emailing or phoning. We look forward to meeting with you. Let us know what you want from the community centre and help us to provide it if you can. Help us to ensure it’s going to continue to be here for your children and your children’s children.

GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50S 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 the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham. 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 is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House and it has its own parking area behind the hall. It is fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within.

Our meetings for the next two months April 13: Social Afternoon including an occasional series A Walk Down Memory Lane April 27: Peter Banham will lead his interactive talk on Old Sayings and their Meanings May 11: Social afternoon May 25: Mrs Jane Paley with her lighthearted talk What do you know about tea?

We would be pleased to welcome anyone who would like to attend one of the talks. There is no obligation to become a member so do come and join us Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

GREAT BLAKENHAM 200 CLUB Thank you to all who have supported the 200 Club during 2015 − we raised £2,144 for the repair and preservation of St Mary’s Parish Church.

A very special thank you must go to the team of collectors who go out at the beginning of each year, regardless of the weather, to collect your £12.

Without them we would not raise nearly so much.

The winning tickets for January £25 295 Avril Howard £15 33 Wendy Dix £10 32 Niki Hill £10 103 Mrs Manning £5 56 Derek Ramsey £5 78 Mrs Mayhew

Facebook: Claydon Community Centre

The winning tickets for February £25 68 Mr McLevy £15 198 Pam Robinson £10 201 Colin Coombs £10 218 Helen Staff £5 184 Margaret Ny £5 171 Kevin Clarke

LITTLE BLAKENHAM VILLAGE HALL

If you would like to take part, and help maintain the beauty of our ancient church building, please contact Marion on 01473 830915. You only pay for the number of months remaining in the year.

The village hall is available for hire by individuals or groups at a rate of £10 for any period up to 24 hours, plus the cost of electricity (£1 coin meter).

ST GEORGE’S DAY DO

www.candbcc.com / 01473 831805

There is one large room with tables and chairs. The kitchen includes a selection of crockery and cutlery and there is a kettle, an urn and a small toaster oven. There is a toilet with disabled access.

Plenty of parking is available on the grass area next to the hall.

To make a booking or for further information, please contact Nathan Elvin: Nathan.elvin@btinternet.com / 07913 586188

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A St George’s Day event will take place in Great Blakenham Parish Room on Saturday, April 23, 6 for 6.30pm. There will be a quiz and traditional sing-a-long. Tickets cost £7 each and include a fish and chip supper and hot drink. Bring your own alcohol and soft drinks.

To book contact Jane Corbett (830201) or Wendy Hooper (846642).

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS CLAYDON PRIMARY SCHOOL GREAT BLAKENHAM’S GOT TALENT JUNE 18, GREAT BLAKENHAM PARISH ROOM

HAVE YOU GOT A HIDDEN TALENT? To get involved, contact Paul Corbett: 830201

4 EVER YOUNG MEN’S CLUB The 4 Ever Young Men’s Club meets at 10.30am on the third Wednesday of the month at The Crown in Claydon. We often have a guest speaker for an hour or so, along with a chance to sit and chat with old friends, meet new friends and learn of new interests and ideas.

The Crown very kindly accommodates us and provides coffee for our meeting, and some of us often stay for a spot of lunch afterwards.

If you would like to join us, contact Mike Biddle on 07805 507497 or just come along on the third Wednesday of the month – you will be very welcome.

MEET ‘N’ EAT LUNCH CLUB We meet at noon on the first Friday of each month at the Parish Rooms in Great Blakenham.

For only £3.50 we serve a selection of soups with a bread roll, homemade puddings with cream or custard and a cup of tea/coffee. In addition, we offer the chance to sit and chat with old friends, make new friends, play a game of bingo and have a bit of fun.

If you’re interested in joining us, telephone Sue Broomfield on 07890 512828 or Mike Biddle on 07805 507497, or just come along on the first Friday of the month – you will be very welcome.

JIGSAW EVENING The Friends of Bramford Church are holding a Jigsaw evening on Thursday, April 21 in Bramford Church Room, 7 for a prompt 7.15pm start.

This popular event will include refreshments and a draw.

Entry is £3 a person. Come either as a team of four, or as an individual − we can make teams up as necessary. Proceeds go towards the upkeep of the church building.

Stewart McGinty, Friends of Bramford Church

THE GREAT BURSTALL BOOK SALE The Great Burstall Book Sale is back by popular demand at Burstall Village Hall on Saturday, April 23, from 10am-4pm, with free admission.

Here is your chance to purchase paperbacks and hardbacks, fiction and non-fiction, all at knockdown prices.

As before, all proceeds will go to Bumblebee Children’s Charity.

Any queries, or for further information, contact Lesley Raby: 01473 652403

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February was a very busy month at Claydon Primary School with sports events, competitions, visitors and interesting topic work taking place throughout the school.

Each year group from Year 3 to 6 takes it in turns to attend a weekly swimming lesson for a period of approximately 10 weeks a year. February saw Year 4 enjoying and improving their swimming skills and they were thrilled to be joined by our friends from The Bridge School during one lesson. They thoroughly enjoyed games in the water together and out of the pool some of our pupils confidently used their knowledge of signing to communicate.

In addition, as part of their learning in Food and Nutrition, Year 4 pupils learnt about dairy products, tasted cheese and developed their skills by making coleslaw. To further support this topic, they also had an exciting visit from Tractors in Schools. Andy and Les showed the pupils the tractor while Brian and Sandra explained how the tractor is used during the farming year.

The tasting continued in Year 5 as part of their Greek theme when they (sometimes reluctantly) tasted Greek food products in preparation for developing their cooking skills and making their own Greek style dips.

Once the tasting had finished, excitement filled the air as several Year 5 and 6 boys left Claydon Primary School to participate in their first ever chess tournament at Whitton Community Primary School. As the first rounds got under way you could feel the nerves of all the children in the silent hall; tension filled the air. After a break for doughnuts (brain food apparently) the rounds continued. The boys were winning, drawing, losing and counting the much-needed points. However, as time ticked on nerves gave way to excitement and new friendships were formed.

Narrowly missing out on the gold place, our boys had, in true sporting style, battled well. Congratulations to our chess team.

December and January were quiet months for sports, with training and matches for football and netball continuing when weather permitted.

Due to the popularity of the Year 3/4 early morning golf club, January saw the second group of children start learning the sport. In February, some players from the Year 5/6 basketball club took part in the school games basketball tournament at Westbourne Academy. They played seven games, which were eight minutes long, one way. Games were played at a high pace and were very exciting with lots of baskets being scored. We won four games, drew two and only lost one. We were delighted to have finished in silver position. Jacob Chapman was selected by the school games organiser to receive a fair play award.

February also saw the Year 4 futsal club attending the school games competition at Inspire Suffolk. They had a great time playing five games, which were eight minutes long, one way. They kept to the ‘no goalkeeper’ rule and, although conceded goals, were able to display the ball skills they had learnt at training which meant all players were involved throughout the game. Every player was a ‘team player’, showing excellent attitude and sporting behaviour, with Luke Newton being selected by the schools games organiser to receive a fair play award.

At both of the aforementioned events, every player was a credit to the school, showing excellent attitude and sportsmanship so a huge well done to the players and a well done and thank you to the parents for their fantastic support.

We save our last thoughts for Year 6, who, as we write, are enjoying their week away at Hilltop. We hope the weather warms for you as it has been bitter here and we look forward to hearing about all your adventures on your return. Steady on the high-ropes staff – remember you’re not at young as the pupils are.

In Touch online:

WATCHDOG SEEKS VIEWS ON DIABETIC FOOT CARE SERVICES IN SUFFOLK Healthwatch Suffolk is working with a leading Consultant Physician of Diabetes and Endocrinology at the Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust Diabetic Centre to explore local experiences of using diabetic foot care services in Suffolk.

Good foot care is essential for people living with diabetes because it can prevent complications caused by high blood glucose levels including damage to nerves and blood vessels. In fact, active foot disease is a leading cause of amputation in the UK. That is why Healthwatch is keen to explore whether people at high risk of developing foot disease in Suffolk are receiving appropriate care. It is interested in your experiences about the full range of services that may care for your feet and this includes those accessed in GP practices, hospitals and in the community.

Andy Yacoub, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Suffolk, said: “Our aim is to ensure that these essential services are shaped by the experiences of people using them. This survey will help us to independently check that patients are receiving the right messages to help them manage their condition and that there is fair and appropriate access to foot care services across the county. If you have diabetes or know someone that does, please take part. It only takes a moment and your views could make a positive difference to care in Suffolk.�

To take part, visit: www.surveymonkey.com/r/suffolkdiabetes You can also contact Healthwatch Suffolk on 01449 703949 or by email to info@healthwatchsuffolk.co.uk to request a hard copy survey.

This survey will close on April 30, 2016.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham

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SCHOOLS CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL

CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL I would like to start this article by sharing the news that Claydon High School has been named in the top 100 non-selective state-funded schools in England for greatest sustained improvement. MP Nick Gibb, Minister of State for Schools, sent a letter to the school offering personal congratulations to the students and staff on this excellent achievement, which recognises sustained improvement in students achieving five or more A*-C GCSE grades, including English and Mathematics, between 2013 and 2015.

We are also celebrating news that the school has been invited to become a Leading Edge school.

Leading Edge is a programme which invites Claydon High School to join other high performing schools across the country to work locally, regionally and nationally to raise achievement through the sharing of proven ideas. There are currently more than 300 Leading Edge schools within the programme, representing some of the most outstanding and innovative practice nationally.

I am extremely pleased that the hard work and dedication of staff alongside the commitment and fantastic achievements of our students over this three-year period has been recognised. We will continue to strive for improvement and to deliver outstanding teaching and learning for our young people and these two accolades will support us in that aim.

We had a very European feel to our spring term with trips abroad to Paris and Salamanca in north west Spain. We are proud to be able to offer these experiences for our students and both trips were jam-packed with visits to famous landmarks, fantastic evening activities and delicious food,

providing a real opportunity for the students to immerse themselves in the cultures and practise their language skills. My thanks go to the staff for giving up their time and the students for their impeccable behaviour.

Other events last month included our annual fun run, an art exhibition featuring work from our feeder primary school students alongside Years 7-9 and a rock band session day featuring Ipswich-based singer songwriter Connor Ryan Adams. Connor and members of IEM (Industry Education in Music) worked with 50 students from Years 7-10 in small groups, helping them to compose original pop music. Students spent the morning rehearsing and performing their compositions and a winning group was then chosen to support Connor in a live performance on stage to a captive student audience. A fantastic Evening of Rock, Pop and Contemporary Music followed on March 23, showcasing our musical talent and allowing students to put into practice their newly-developed skills.

On March 10 our Reporters Club joined selected Year 8 students to take part in the BBC School Report Day. Students gave up timetabled lessons to produce an online newspaper based on events in and around school. Students also represented the eastern region as one of six schools nationally who were invited to participate in a live radio broadcast for a pop-up radio station based in Birmingham. This was broadcast as an online radio show via the BBC School Report webpage.

Please do visit www.claydonhigh.co.uk where you will be directed to the online newspaper.

It’s hard to believe that we are now half way through our Easter break and that there is only one more term left in this academic year. We have lots to look forward to when we return, including rehearsals for our forthcoming production of Grease the Musical in July. The cast has been announced and students are very excited. More information will follow but if you would like to be involved in sponsoring our show, then please contact Nikki McGuinness: nmcguinness@claydonhigh.com If you would like to visit the school to see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Friday, April 29. To book a place please contact Mrs J Pedersen, the headteacher’s PA: 01473 836110

CLAYDON MUMS ‘N’ TOTS GROUP Calling all mums, dads, grandparents and carers with children 0-4 years old! Are you looking for somewhere to entertain your children and make new friends at the same time?

Each week we have a different theme at our arts and crafts table where the children can make and create something amazing to take home and show the family.

Claydon Mums ‘n’ Tots meet every Tuesday (term time) from 1.15-3pm in Claydon & Barham Village Hall. We charge just £1.50 a family (one adult and children) which includes a drink and a biscuit for both the adults and children.

There is a great selection of toys and activities to stimulate the children and help them let off some steam.

We always end our session with a sing-a-long to round off the play.

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The children were all very excited about their Easter break and the fact that the Easter Bunny may have brought them some chocolate to eat.

We are hoping that everyone will be fully rested and ready to greet the summer term when we open again on Monday, April 11. We are also very excited as some of the pre-school children will be going on our organised coach trip to Easton Farm Park on Thursday, April 14. Let’s hope it’s a sunny day.

We will once again be running our summer holiday club on each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 3.30pm for children aged two to eight years old.

This will start from July 26 until September 1. Prices are £20 for a full day (bring a packed lunch) and £12 for either a morning (9am-noon) or afternoon (12.30-3.30pm) session. For more details or to book spaces please contact the administrator – details below.

Don’t forget to get your applications in now for places in September 2016.

The pre-school is open Monday to Friday from 9am-3.30pm during term time. Children can start from the age of two until they go to Reception. Session fees are £9.60 and we offer a lunchclub (noon-12.30pm) for £1.60.

We are happy to accept childcare vouchers and we offer two-year funded places for any eligible children.

We also run a holiday club in the Easter – further information can be obtained by contacting the administrator.

For more information regarding any of the above or just to find out more about Claydon Pre-school please contact the administrator, Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk

CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL 100 CLUB No 36 Linda Harman £19.80 No 37 Elizabeth Cropton £9.90 No 5 Julie Last £3.30 New members are welcome at any time.

Entry is just £1 a month and the draw takes place on the last Friday of each month from September through to July.

We will meet on April 12, 19 and 26 and new faces are always welcome.

The more entries we get the greater the prize money and all money raised is used to enhance the lives of our children within the pre-school.

So why not come along, have a cuppa and meet some people in your area? We look forward to seeing you and your little ones soon.

For an entry form please contact Nadine Harrison: 01473 831857 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk

In Touch online:

SCHOOLS / SPORT CLAYDON & BARHAM YOUNG FAMILIES Claydon and Barham Young Families is a Mothers’ Union project that has been run by Mothers’ Union members and supporters for 24-years. We welcome mums, dads, carers and grandparents from Claydon, Barham, Great Blakenham and the surrounding villages with babies or children under five.

Entry is just £1.50 a family. This month we meet on April 14 and 28, 9.30-11.30am, in Claydon and Barham Village Hall.

At our regular sessions we welcome anyone with babies or children under five for imaginative play, storytime, songtime and lots of fun.

Families can enjoy a different craft activity with a theme where children can be creative and try out different materials to produce an individual masterpiece. Playdough and all sorts of toys that encourage children’s imaginative play and physical and social development are available.

We also share songtime for a bit of noise.

For parents/carers it’s a good opportunity to meet others with pre-school children or babies. There is also a prize draw for the children.

Thank you to everyone who took part in the 25th birthday quiz which raised valuable funds for our group. Congratulations to our winner Sue Sergeant. I hope everyone had fun with it.

BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Greetings guff lovers. Now that the referendum mudslinging is in full swing, to the extent where we are almost afraid to shout “Out!” when Nick serves, I can reassure you all that this load of guff is an EU referendum free zone, so feel free to look ‘in‘ without trepidation (this may be trickier than I thought).

We will seek to persuade the present committee to remain in post at the club’s AGM, and persuade new members to leave the comfort of their sofa and join us on the courts. We are a small village club offering three courts (two floodlit), and we regularly compete in all local leagues.

We also hold club sessions for those who want to play social tennis. These are on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings throughout the spring/summer.

Any new members will be welcome − of any standard − you cannot be worse than yours truly. If you are at all curious please contact the treasurer on 464598 or log on to: www.bramfordtennisclub.onesuffolk.net On the winter league front there are mixed fortunes for our pairs as Nick and Graham require another win to ensure that they stay ‘in’ the division, whereas Graham’s sons Matt

We are fast approaching the outdoor season and look forward to bowling on our newly rejuvenated green at Crowley Park. The schedule for the season is as follows.

We start with the club spring clean on Friday, April 8 at 9.30am. Everybody is welcome, the more the merrier.

Why not come along and join in the fun? You can make friends and enjoy some valuable play. Hope to see you there.

The opening drive is on Saturday, April 16 at 2pm, Sunday 17 if too wet, and the first league matches are the week beginning Monday, April 25.

Michelle

Finally, we sadly lost one of our honorary members this week when Corrinne had to have her beloved Labrador Boycie put down.

For many years he was a familiar sight at club sessions, spectating while his owner was playing.

Even when old and arthritic he was faster around the court and retrieved tennis balls better than myself and had more hair than many players of a similar age. No doubt he is still chasing tennis balls somewhere up there.

I know what will cheer you all up, it’s joke of the month: A father collects his son from school and asks him what he has done today. “Well they gave out the parts for the school play today and I got the part of a man who has been married for 20 years,” said the son. “Congratulations son,” said the father, “keep it up and perhaps next year they will give you a speaking part.”

I won’t ask you to vote on that one, more guff next month.

Mick Russ

NEEDHAM MARKET BOWLS CLUB

This month we would like to wish a happy birthday to Calliope who celebrates in April.

For more information contact me on 01473 833788 or check our listing on netmums.com

and Adam have no fears of falling ‘out’ of the league, having attained a greater points tally than their father.

For the first time this year we are holding meet and greet days on Saturday, April 23 and 30 at 10am. These will enable anyone interested in joining NMBC the opportunity to talk to mem-

bers over a cup of tea/coffee and biscuits as well as trying out bowling under the supervision of qualified coaches – bowls will be provided. The club provides opportunities for social bowling for those who do not wish to bowl in league matches.

Our annual home friendly with Dovercourt is on Sunday, May 8 with the away match on Sunday, July 17.

Our family and friends barbeque is on Saturday, May 14 at 2pm so bring your family and friends.

This is open to non members.

Contact Pat Hadden (01743 831308) or Alistair Bailie (01449 720759).

Advertise for

£25

*

a month

Please call 01473 400380 * excludes VAT

www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham

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SPORT CLAYDON FC Claydon FC Under 12s Claydon U12s are looking for new players as we move from 9v9 to 11 a side in September as U13s for the 2016/2017 season. Claydon U12 currently play in the SSYL Division 2 on a Saturday morning. If you are interested in coming along for a trial, please contact Dave Martin: 01473 832441 / 07976 216386 Claydon FC Under 10s

out by the physical style of play from the Whites and although Claydon had the ‘Tiger’s share’ of the possession a goal just would not come. As the game wore on it came down to pressure from the Tigers, a good ball into Owen saw him dispatch it past the ‘keeper for 1-0 and that was all it needed as the Tigers ran down the clock.

The Dragons were up next against the Yellows and the style of play suited the Dragons more, better passing from the team and being a little more accustomed to the game meant that there was less space for the Yellows.

The Yellows did break down the Dragons and came out narrow winners.

The final game was a reduced time Dragons v Tigers and over the 19 minutes and 47 seconds of play, the Tigers came out winners with a 0-2 win.

Claydon FC U8s: Goalkeepers required

U10 Tigers celebrating a goal by Owen against Stanway Villa White As there were no league games this week, we took the chance to have some more 9-a-side games as we prepare for next season. We invited up our good friends from Colchester Stanway Villa and they brought two teams up, the Yellows and the Whites.

The first game was Claydon Tigers v the Yellows. We had played before and it was a super game with some very skilful football. This game was to be much the same. Both teams were looking to play good passing football and for a long period it seemed a stalemate in the midfield.

Claydon put together a super move from the midfield to play the ball in behind the Yellows defence and Oliver ran from the right on to the ball, only one thing was in his mind and he fired in past the keeper for 1-0 Tigers. Substitutions were made at the half way mark and the Tigers kicked it up a gear. Good work from Archie saw him grab his first goal for the Tigers, quickly followed by a second for a superb brace. The Yellows got one back after a mazy run from the forward. As the Claydon defence backed off he pressed on and chipped Alfie to grab one back. The Tigers held firm though and took the win.

The Under 8s are looking for two goalkeepers as they move into next season and Under 9s football. If you or someone you know is a keen goalkeeper and would like to train midweek and play on a Saturday morning then please get in touch with admin@claydon-fc.co.uk with your contact details and Richard will get in touch with you.

CLAYDON FC PAVILLION UPDATE Work on the club’s pavilion and changing facilities is moving forward with pace as the team have replaced the old roof with a fantastic new waterproof one and started on the internal changes to bring about a new social area. Over the next few weeks the outside cladding with be fixed to the building and the remainder of the internal changes will be started.

The club are very grateful to the SITA trust who made all of these changes possible via their grant.

The Dragons went into their first proper 9-a-side game against a strong Whites team and although there were some great moments of play from them, the Whites grabbed five goals over the period of play. There are a lot of good points that can come out of this for the Dragons. They put up a great show against a side that has played 9-a-side before, and with some coaching on offside and positioning will do fine.

The Tigers went up against the Whites in the next game and this was to be a very close game. The passing play of the Tigers was being cancelled

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In Touch online:

CHURCH NEWS ST MARY’S CHURCH, GREAT BLAKENHAM Priest-in-charge: position currently vacant Churchwardens Judith Williams, 01473 832423 / Jane Corbett, 01473 830201 AGM The church annual general meeting will be held in the church on Wednesday, April 6 at 7pm. Everyone is welcome to attend. This meeting is your opportunity to ask questions about the past year and to make suggestions for the coming year that will help to further our ministry. We are always looking for new people to join the Parochial Church Council.

COMMUNITY COFFEE MORNING The next community coffee morning in the Parish Room will be on Saturday, April 9 from 10am-noon. Come and join us for tea/coffee, homemade cake and a chat. All welcome.

We hold a community coffee morning in the Parish Room on the second Saturday of each month.

DOGGY DAY Great Blakenham Parish Room and garden on Saturday, July 16, 10am-3pm. A day devoted to dogs and the goodies they like, toys they might like to play with, and practical things like winter coats and nutrition advice. See page 9 for more details.

If you are interested in having a stall or attending this event, please contact Wendy Hooper: 07710 508792 / wendydhooper@gmail.com ST GEORGE’S DAY We are having a St George’s Day event in the Parish Room on April 23, 6 for a 6.30pm start. There will be a short quiz, a raffle and a traditional sing-a-long. Tickets are £7 and include a fish and chip supper and hot drink. Bring your own alcohol/soft drinks.

To book tickets please contact Jane Corbett (830201) or Wendy Hooper (846642).

GREAT BLAKENHAM’S GOT TALENT We hope to hold a Great Blakenham’s Got Talent event on June 18 and we would like to hear from you if you have a talent that you could share. If you are interested please contact Paul Corbett: 01473 830201 PRIEST VACANCY The vacancy has now been advertised in the Church Times and also on the diocese website. Hopefully by the time you read this, applications will be coming in. Interviews will take place on April 14 and 15. Please remember in your prayers all those considering applying for this role and all involved in the selection process, pray that the right person will be found to lead our parish to grow in faith.

THE PRINCE WHO SAVED THE DAY Having a daughter who is a Disney fan, I am becoming fairly familiar with the recurring theme that occurs in many well known fairy tales. Though the stories are not all identical, the theme that frequently occurs in one shape or another is that there is a person in need of help or trapped in some kind of dire situation, and only one person is able to help. More often than not, that person turns out to be a handsome prince who steps in to save the day, usually with an act of selfless true love.

On July 15 last year, a man in Felixstowe was suffering from a suspected heart attack. The Air Ambulance was called, and much to everyone’s surprise, when the helicopter landed, plain for all to see, was a prince.

The future king of England, Prince William, Can you imagine the surprise?

(Possibly not the best remedy for a heart attack.)

When I read about that incident in the East Anglian Daily Times, it reminded me of what Jesus did for us. Prince William could have spent his days last summer relaxing in the palace, being waited on hand and foot, but instead he spent his time working in service of others ministering to their needs in their greatest times of trouble. Likewise, Jesus, left his throne in heaven to come down here, to serve us. He forsook his rights as king to become a servant, and minister to our greatest need. Not only did He give of his time and effort for us, to teach us and guide us, He ultimately gave his life for us.

Can you imagine how much more sensational the story would have been in the newspaper last summer if Prince William had said to the man: “Sadly your heart is beyond cure. Your condition is fatal. You won’t make it through this trauma. Therefore, I will offer my life to you. You may take my heart and have it transplanted into you. You can have my life and I will take your death upon myself instead.”

This is the Gospel. It’s what the Bible tells us Jesus did for us.

“For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.

For one will scarcely die for a righteous person − though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die − but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5: 6-8 SERVICES Sunday: 10.45am at Great Blakenham (including Sunday Club for children); 6.30pm at Mickfield.

Wednesday: Fortnightly women’s meeting, 2.30pm; fortnightly prayer and Bible study, 10am.

Friday: Action Bible Club, meeting at the church, 6.30-7.30pm – games, crafts and stories for ages five to 12.

For more information contact: info@blakenhambaptist.org.uk 01449 720357 www.blakenhambaptist.org.uk

CONFIRMATION SERVICE There will be a confirmation service in our deanery on September 25. The venue and time is still to be advised. If you are interested in being confirmed or would like more information please contact Jane Corbett: 01473 830201

APRIL SERVICES April 10 Morning Prayer, 10am April 24 Family Service, 10am DATES FOR YOUR DIARY April 9 Community Coffee Morning April 23 St George’s Day event in the Parish Room, 6-6.30pm

www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham

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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 / stmarybramford@aol.com Assistant curate: The Rev Julian Fennel, 01473 833250 Assistant priest: The Rev Pat Wright www.stmarybramford.co.uk

When we do a trial run of a new service it is useful to have as many opinions as possible – especially those who are not regular members of the church, so please come along and give it a go, and tell us honestly what you think. Watch this space, and the church noticeboard for details of dates and times.

Morning Prayer at Bramford: 8.30am, Monday to Friday

If you wish to find out more about this don’t hesitate to ring either myself or the Rev Julian for a chat.

Wednesday morning quiet reflective Communion Services: 9.30am at the vicarage, unless otherwise advised.

Please check porch notices for any changes.

April 3 8am 10am 6pm April 7 3pm

Easter 2 Holy Communion Holy Communion with Prayer for Healing Evening Prayer

Little Blakenham Bramford Baylham

United Service at Cherryfields

April 10 Easter 3 8am Holy Communion 10am Parish Communion 5pm Five o’clock service

April 12 11am Communion from

Reserved Sacrament

Bramford Nettlestead + APCM Bramford

Blessings to you all.

Jenny Forthcoming fundraising events Thursday, April 21: We have a jigsaw evening, a fun evening with refreshments, a draw and a raffle – all for £3.

Saturday, April 23: Coffee morning, a very popular event and great for meeting friends and family.

PARISH REGISTERS

Baylham Care Centre

April 13 7.30pm

Healing Service

Methodist Church

April 17 10am 10am

Easter 4 Holy Communion Holy Communion

Bramford Baylham + APCM

April 19 2.30pm

The Gathering

Church Room

April 21 7pm

Jigsaw Evening

Bramford

April 24 8am 10am 10am

Easter 5 Holy Communion Family Service Morning Prayer

Bramford Bramford + APCM Nettlestead

Dear Friends As I get older I am constantly surprised at the speed that the year goes.

It is April and we are now nearly a third of the way through the year. We are well under way with the planning of the village fun day, and are even beginning to think a little about harvest, and Christmas (believe it or not).

Everything we do in the church takes careful and in-depth planning even the smallest things.

By this time I hope that we will be well on the way to adding a new service to our repertoire. We have been thinking for some time about an informal mid-week service, which I think we are nearly ready to trial, and as I write it is still in the planning stage. It’s aimed at those who need a little spiritual quiet and R&R following a busy day, and will be early evening, with the chance for some spiritual off loading, some quiet time in the peace of the church, coffee and a chat, and a little quiet worship if the mood takes. We are hoping to trial this later in may so watch this space.

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Looking forward a little further, we could do with help at the fun day, particularly setting up, putting away and manning stalls. Please let Stewart McGinty or Caroline Wolton know if you are available to help with anything on the day. It’s a great chance for the village to get together to play, to socialise and to get to know each other – it also acts as a useful fundraising opportunity for a number of organisations in the village, including the church.

Funerals February 10: Derek Rush February 12: Susan Cave March 2: Florrie Jones March 10: Peggy Shemming We extend to their families our sympathy and prayers Floodlighting of the Spire of St Mary’s Church If you would like to have the spire floodlit please ring Stewart on 01473 462231. The requested donation is £10 per week.

Cleaning rota: V Mather and K Orvis Flower rota: 16th W McGinty, 23rd Wedding 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.

April 3 Acts 5:27-32

First Sunday of Easter Rev. 1:4-8

White John 20:19-31

April 10 Acts 9:1-6(7-20)

Second Sunday of Easter Rev. 5:11-14

White John 21:1-19

April 17 Acts 9:36-43

Third Sunday of Easter Rev. 7:9-17

White John 10:22-30

April 24 Acts 11:1-18

Fourth Sunday of Easter Rev. 21:1-6

White John 13:31-35

May 1 Fifth Sunday of Easter

Rogation Sunday Acts 16:9-15 Rev.21:10,22-22.5

White John 14:23-29 or 5:1-9

In Touch online:

March Accounting & Taxation Services Ian Coombes FCCA MBA

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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 16 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380

www.keepingintouchwith.com/gtblakenham

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