In Touch news with Copdock - August 2016

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with Belstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook Volume 6 • Issue No. 9 • AUGUST 2016

Bentley Primary School (see page 27)

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR My parents celebrated their golden anniversary in June and, as you do at times such as this, we have talked at length about the trials and tribulations they faced over the years, some good, some not so. I’m proud their marri age was rock solid throughout, even when faced with tough financial times on the farm, a variety of health challenges, a rather rebellious teenage daughter and, in recent years, the collapse of the Irish economy which has impacted on everyone in one way or another.

Married in 1966 and parents for the first time in 1967, my mum and dad showed remarkable resilience when it may have been easier to walk away. Back then when farm machinery was either unavailable or unaffordable, farming was not for the fainthearted, but they were a formidable team. Mum was the ultimate survivor. She baked, she sewed, she kept a garden, she helped on the farm, she managed the books… she did what had to be done to make ends meet and she and dad were totally committed to giving my brothers and I every opportunity they had been denied. They also knew how to have fun. My mum could turn a Sunday picnic in the garden into an unforgettable adventure. That said I don’t ever want to eat ox tongue sandwiches again as long as I live.

Our annual daytrip to Kinvarra beach and the annual pilgrimage to Knock were the highlights of summers spent in the garden and on the farm. Every year I bought red heart-shaped sun glasses in Kinvarra and one of those little toy camera picture viewers in Knock and I was the happiest little girl in the world.

My life is remarkable different to theirs, but I suspect my everyday worries are not entirely dissimilar. Making my own butter or knitting socks aren’t realistic money-saving options for me, but, thanks to my parents, I do have a ‘pull your socks up and get on with it’ approach to most things, and this I’m grateful for in these rather disconcerting political times.

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NEWS

TATTINGSTONE FETE: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 This year’s fete is on Saturday, September 3 from 11.30am-4pm on the village playing fields where there will be free parking.

The fete will have a traditional theme with birds of prey, zorbs, bouncy castles, Punch & Judy and the dog agility team from Paws at Parham.

There will also be the Silver Spinners Majorettes, Tattingstone Tractors, vintage cars and greyhounds from the Greyhound Rescue Centre.

There will be music, a raffle, stalls with local produce for sale, fun and games including a penalty shoot out competition held throughout the day and not forgetting refreshments in the beer tent, a barbecue and a tea tent with homemade cakes.

Lucky programmes will be sold prior to and at the event with prizes of £50, £25 and £10. Profits from the fete will be used to support local village causes.

There is still time to book a stall if you have a product you would like to sell. For details, please contact: Andrea, andrea.mendel@manpower.co.uk Sue, suegipps@btinternet.com

with Belstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook

In Touch with Belstead, Bentley, Copdock, Tattingstone & Washbrook is published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

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COULD YOU MAKE A FIDGET QUILT? Fidget Quilts need to be lap size and can be made in material or wool with non-sharp items sewn on. These quilts help people with dementia, giving them something to feel and play with.

Holbrook and Shotley surgeries have been encouraging people to make these and two full boxes have been taken to the dementia ward at Ipswich Hospital. Suffolk Family Carers and Mothers’ Union would also like to help so that we can give theses to carers who are looking after someone at home or in residential or nursing homes.

I have been asked to co-ordinate this and I have some wool if anyone would like to make one. Once made they can be dropped off at Holbrook or Shotley surgeries or to myself. Just give me a call on 01473 780084.

Shirley Bruce

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NEWS THE COPWASH EYE CENTENARY OF THE FALLEN OF THE BENEFICE After the five who fell in the early days of the Battle of the Somme there are only two whose centenaries are recalled this month.

A Benefice Service was taken by the Bishop of St Edmundsbury on the Sunday and the church was full and the roof raised as the congregation sang the final hymn, For all the Saints.

Many thanks are due to all who supported, helped, provided food and, of course, to the flower arrangers who give so freely of their time and expertise. But most of all to Muriel Pearsons without whose inspiration and overall organisation there could have been no festival.

Second Corporal George Laws, RE who died on August 1 in the Somme lies in Dantiz Alley Cemetery, Mametz. He was the third son of John and Alice Laws of Railway Cottages, Sproughton Road, Ipswich. His father was the Bailiff at Boss Hall Farm. His brother Stanley was killed on the Ypres Salient on September 20, 1917, the same day that Copdock born William Henry Hewitt won the VC in another sector of the battle known as Passchendaele. His grave was visited and photographed by Peter and Jennifer Jones in 2002.

PTE Jacob Wyartt, 18 Battalion Australian Infantry was killed in action on August 5, 1916. He was born in Burstall in 1889, the son of Samuel and Naomi Wyarrt. He emigrated to Australia, becoming an Australian citizen before returning to Europe to fight for the ‘Mother Country’. He is commemorated on the Villers-Bretonuex Memorial in the Somme which was visited and photographed in 2008. th

ST PETER’S, COPDOCK PATRONAL FL0WER FESTIVAL Yet again the flower arrangers of Copdock and Washbrook, with the help of others from the Benefice, filled the church with wonderful displays on the theme of the Queen’s 90th birthday. Each window represented a decade of her 90 years, from the 1920s when she was born, though the wartime decade of the 1940s and the swinging 60s to the present day. Royal interests were also represented like horseracing with added binoculars and racing colours. Particularly skilful arrangements were the teddy bear, the tennis ball and the magnificent Royal Crown. On the Friday evening there was a preview with wine and nibbles and the Tattingstone choir regaled us with nine decades of popular songs

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Pictures by George Nicholson and Jennifer Jones

The money raised, just over £750, goes to the St Peter’s Heritage Trust for the maintenance of the fabric of the church and the Sunday service collection was given to the bishop’s charity fund.

FOUR NEW KNEEELRS FOR COPDOCK CHURCH

Bishop Martin also blessed four new kneelers given to replace two donated almost 30 years ago for Jack Hawke and the Mothers’ Union which at that time was led by his wife Bessie. Both kneelers were moth damaged beyond repair. The new kneelers were donated by Jack and Bessie’ daughter, Cynthia Capey and her family and are dedicated to Jack and Bessie, Marion and Russell Harrison and to Paul Fiske who was rector here in the early 1970s.

PATRIOTIC SUPPORT FOR WALES IN COPDOCK & WASHBROOK The Welsh Dragon flew boldly over the home of Alan Amphlett Lewis in the expectation of a Welsh victory in Euro 2016 semi-finals. Sadly in spite of nationwide British support it wasn’t needed for the final.

Incidentally the flying of the Union flag on the day of the referendum result was not a salute to Brexit, but in honour of Armed Forces Day.

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NEWS

BENTLEY FAMILY FUN DAY & FUN DOG SHOW Bentley Playing Field, Sunday, September 4

MBE FOR BENTLEY RESIDENT AND USAR TECHNICIAN JOHN BALL Essex Firefighter and search and rescue dog handler John Ball is set to receive an MBE for his services to national and international search and rescue.

Many thanks to all who have taken part and have come along to the Family Fun Day in previous years; the day has grown year-on-year into a great success.

John has been named in the Queen’s Birthday honours list in recognition of the prominent role he has played as part of international search and rescue missions and the wider role he has undertaken in enhancing and promoting the role of Search and Rescue Dogs throughout the world.

We are now planning this year’s Family Fun Day, organised by the Bentley Playing Field Society, and your organisation or club may wish to showcase themselves or raise some funds. Or you may be an individual willing to help on the day. If so please contact:

John and Search and Rescue dog Darcy have been working together since 2005 and have attended major incidents at home and abroad. They were part of the international rescue team following major earthquakes in Sumatra in 2009 and again in Nepal last year.

Jo Willis, 07733 98842 / David Telling, 07962 159542

John has also used the skills he’s gained as part of both the Urban Search and Rescue Team and the UK International Search and Rescue Team to help ensure that other countries have resources in place to deal with major disasters.

As one of the few fully qualified UK Search and Rescue Dog assessors he has travelled around the world helping to make sure that rescue teams are ready to join international efforts in countries which have suffered a disaster. Since qualifying in that role in 2010 he has shared his expertise with international teams including Malaysia, Japan, Austria and Qatar.

CELEBRATIONS AT THE BROOK INN The Brook Inn in Washbrook will mark the second anniversary of its community buyout with a day of fun at the pub on Saturday, August 13 including a barbecue and a live band in the evening. The fun is due to start at 4pm.

On learning that he had been awarded the honour, John said: “I am extremely proud and honoured to have been chosen for this award.

There are so many deserving people in the emergency services so it was a huge surprise to me to discover that I was to receive an MBE. “It is important to remember that everything I do is part of a team effort and I could not have done this without the help and support of my wife Helen, our family and my colleagues at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and UKISAR. “Most importantly I have to thank Darcy. She has been a loyal and dedicated partner who has been at my side throughout this journey and I would not have been given this honour if it wasn’t for her. She is a truly remarkable dog and I am proud to work with her.”

Landlord Dave Clarke said it was important to mark the date of purchase without which Copdock and Washbrook would have seen their only pub close.

From: www.essex-fire.gov.uk

Mr Clarke said: “The pub is the hub of the community, but we also attract lots of customers from outside the area. The accent of the day though is to relax and have fun. Hopefully the sun will shine – but you never know after the summer we’ve had so far!”

The pub was bought from Punch Taverns in August 2014 in a communitybacked purchase after a successful £400,000 fundraising campaign.

The Brook Inn is a free house and has built a strong reputation for its gluten-free menu, being the only independent pub in the county to be registered with Coeliac UK.

As a near neighbour of Copdock church, may I respectfully ask the attendees who drive to services to park their cars in the car park provided.

With the frequent passing of the mini Tour de France most weekends, horseriders, walkers and other vehicles, it shows a lack of respect to these fellow road users.

Jacqueline Beecroft

We stopped to look at our favourite view It’s the little things that make a funeral special Here for you every hour of every day

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NEWS CAPEL SURGERY TRANSPORT SCHEME The scheme appears to be working well, with as many as four pick-ups in a week. We now have a number of volunteers who ferry people to and from both Capel and Bergholt surgeries. Looking at the pick-ups it becomes clear that something like 40% are from Washbrook and Bentley.

It would be good to welcome some volunteers from both villages to the scheme, if only to save the Capel volunteers from four journeys rather than just two.

If you are prepared to volunteer please contact me on 310992 and I will explain how the scheme works. More volunteers means fewer occasions individuals get called!

COPDOCK & WASHBROOK PARISH COUNCIL The parish council met on Tuesday, July 5 at the Church Room, Washbrook. The minutes from the June meetings were approved and can be seen on the village website.

A report was given by District Councillor Nick Ridley. The police no longer attend parish meetings.

Chris Yule

District Councillor Ridley reported the position on devolution is unclear.

All Suffolk councils approved, but four in Norfolk didn’t. A public consultation should start very soon. Babergh District Council need to appoint a new chief executive.

ANGLIAN WATER CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT

Developers for the land on the corner of Back Lane/Elm Lane gave a presentation. The parish council considered the planning application for the same development.

Water is a valuable resource and despite what it feels like sometimes, we are in one of the driest regions of the UK. With that in mind, it is very important to ensure we keep our river water as clean as possible to meet the ever increasing drinking water needs of the region.

Payments were raised and approved.

Alton Water Reservoir supplies more than 200,000 people around the Ipswich, Felixstowe and Shotley area with wholesome drinking water.

Anglian Water’s treatment works can treat up to 10 million gallons of water every day to the stringent drinking water standards set by our regulators.

A chemical that we find particularly difficult to treat is Metaldehyde, which is found in the most commonly used slug pellets. If Metaldehyde finds its way into water it can be very persistent and we have to dilute the water with other sources to bring levels down.

Over the last two years we have been working with local farmers to encourage the use of an alternative slug pellet ingredient called Ferric Phosphate, which isn’t an issue in water. Although agriculture covers three-quarters of East Anglia it is not the sole contributor of Metaldehyde in our watercourses. Ditches and drains connect to watercourses so it’s very important to consider your allotment and garden use of pesticides.

Ferric Phosphate pellets work just as well as Metaldehyde and stop slugs feeding straight away, sending them underground to die so you do not see the slug trails or slugs the next day. Ferric Phosphate based pellets are available at most garden centres so give them a try.

The council considered new speed proposals from Suffolk County Council Highways Department for Old London Road. These were looked upon favourably and it is hoped they will be implemented very soon.

The council is continuing to develop the Community-Led Housing Development Plan.

Thanks were given to residents who have voluntarily cut grass verges and areas near their own homes in the village to help keep the village tidy and safe.

Chairman Keith Armes With cuts in budgets, district and county councils are finding it difficult to maintain areas as before. You may have noticed grassed areas in the village are being cut more regularly and this is being carried out by residents who want to see our village remain tidy, safe and pleasant place to live.

If you feel you could help in this way, please do cut any areas near to your home to assist in keeping the village tidy. Thank you.

Gary Hodgetts, Catchment Advisor, Anglian Water 07802 856632 / ghodgetts@anglianwater.co.uk

SIGN UP AND GET CONNECTED WITH POLICE CONNECT Police Connect is a free messaging service connecting you to the very latest policing news for your area via email, text or phone.

Police Connect will provide you with localised information for a variety of situations, including emergency alerts, missing people appeals, crime reports, neighbourhood policing news and events.

To register, contact 101 and we will get a form to you or register online at: www.Suffolk.police.uk/policeconnect Suffolk Police supports the use of social media as a means of talking with and listening to the communities we serve. Our networks provide people with an alternative source of the latest information in real time, often accompanied by images or videos. Suffolk Police can also be found on Facebook, Google, Instagram and YouTube.

Officers in Hadleigh have recently joined social networking site Twitter and will be issuing regular updates about news, events, arrests and what’s happening in your neighbourhood. Follow us @HadleighPolice.

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The short updates, known as tweets, will give a better insight into police work and help build relationships alongside the day-to-day work carried out by officers. In addition to @SuffolkPolice, our main corporate account, we also have the district accounts providing information at local level, as well as some departmental accounts and personal ones of senior officers.

It is important to remember however that Twitter is not the place to report a crime or raise an issue you need to discuss in confidence: For non-emergency matters call 101.

In emergencies always dial 999.

Hadleigh SNT, Hadleigh Police Station, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh IP7 5AD hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk

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NEWS REPORT TO PARISHES, ALTON WARD: AUGUST 2016 DEVOLUTION FOR SUFFOLK (& NORFOLK?) If you’ve been following this in the papers you may have seen that all the councils in Suffolk have voted to remain in the process for now, but four in Norfolk have dropped out. With one of those being Norwich itself, it’s difficult to see how this can be made to work. Norwich and Ipswich had been specifically targeted for housing investment and I would imagine more changes will be required. The whole process has been rushed through to meet an election deadline of putting a mayor in place from next May. That rush has left some important matters like democracy, clarity, practicality and need unexamined.

The recent Chilcot report describes what happens (much more dangerously in that case) when these points are not properly considered.

It’s also possible that the whole idea will be reconsidered in the light of larger concerns and a leadership change at Westminster. Alternatively though, a consultation exercise starting now will take place and the matter forced through for a final decision from those councils still involved in October. That consultation may be taking the form of a survey from a polling company, so if you’re one of those contacted I’d suggest paying close attention to the wording of the questions. Tricksy, as somebody once said.

WHAT DOES A COUNCILLOR DO? PART 1: WARD & PARISHES I can only speak for myself here as we often have different responsibilities in council as a whole, but in the wards there should be a lot of common ground. Personally, I think the ward is the best bit of the job and where we can see some real results sometimes. Taking recent months as an example, this is a very rough list of the sort of thing we might be doing or dealing with.

Problem with an extension and getting planning permission for it,

problem with a planning application that a neighbour has made, street sign with the wrong name on it in the wrong place, need for residents parking sign, problem with business rates, changes made to discretionary housing benefit, help with rehousing and waiting list for housing, visiting local businesses (not just pubs), radio interview on planning and housing policy at 6.15am, speaking at planning committee as ward member on specific applications, dealing with the arrival of travellers and the subsequent clean up, fly tipping incidents, radio and TV interviews on strategic planning application, attending village functions (although I might be anyway), responding to a flash flood (boy, has it rained this year), Japanese Knotweed report, long grass obscuring highway, hedges and branches covering footpaths or roadway, rats causing problems and just going around keeping my eyes and ears open. There are limits to what we can do, but trying is always a start.

Every month I report to the parish council meetings on relevant Babergh activity and act as a liaison, and often an interpreter, a link over common concerns. We need to have a clear idea of the aims and objectives of both Babergh and the parishes and act as a bridge between them. So there are phone calls, emails and meetings where needed and you try to tie things together.

I don’t do surgeries as such. I’m here anyway, at the end of a phone, so I’ve taken to a roughly weekly ride around the village pubs, usually on a Sunday afternoon. Anybody who wants to can say hello or ask about something. I’m on a blue Claud Butler racing bike and there might be coloured socks as well. Feel free to come over and chat anytime.

Alastair McCraw: 07812 564188 / alastair.mccraw@babergh.gov.uk Facebook: Alton, Alastair McCraw and Harriet Steer (a joint open group) Harriet Steer: 07545 961629 / harriet.steer@babergh.gov.uk

CONSTABLE COUNTRY MEDICAL PRACTICE Patient Participation Group and Patient Feedback Over the last year there have been many changes at the practice. In addition to changes in the partnership and other staff, we have also changed our appointment system. Some changes take a while to have an impact on how the practice is perceived as some patients only occasionally have a need to visit the practice. However, we hope that our policy of always offering a same day face-to-face or telephone appointment is reassuring and patients understand they can contact us at any time of the day if they need access to a clinician.

We want to continue to improve the service we offer and our interaction with patients is key to helping us understand what works well and where we can improve. I thought it may be useful to summarise how you can improve your interaction with the practice.

Most importantly, please ensure we have up-to-date contact details for you, including home and mobile telephone numbers and an email address. You can update these via our website (click on ‘update contact details’ on the home page) or by filling in a form available from reception.

This will enable us to send appointment confirmations, notifications of test results and other important information we feel you should be aware of. Note that your details are strictly confidential and will only be used for practice purposes.

We are further developing our website to ensure that information you need is available. It contains PPG minutes and contact details, news items including regular practice updates, information on our appointment system, and the facilities to register as a new patient and provide feedback. Our aim is to improve the website over the coming months

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to ensure it contains up-to-date and useful information. We will also be introducing a Twitter feed to inform patients of incidents, such as power cuts, or events such as flu clinics.

The PPG has been operating for over a year now and we are lucky to have such an active PPG. We meet monthly and discuss the day to day operation of the practice, new developments and any problems which come to their attention. The PPG is also proactive in helping the practice address wider health issues. They recently organised a very successful presentation on diabetes by Dr Gerry Rayman, and will be organising further events in the year ahead. Their contact details can be found on the website and they welcome feedback on how the practice is performing.

The PPG has provided feedback cards for patient use with collection boxes at Capel and East Bergholt. We also have Friends and Family Test feedback cards available, and patients can provide feedback via our website and on NHS Choices. We welcome all feedback, though we hope patients will tell us when they have had a good experience, not just when they have experienced a problem.

Training Days A reminder that the practice will be closed from 1pm on the following dates for staff training: Thursday, September 15 and Wednesday, October 12. On these afternoons the doors will be closed so please ensure any prescriptions are picked up well beforehand. If you phone the practice the recorded message will ask you to ring 111 for medical assistance if your problem cannot wait until the next day.

Practice Manager Pete Keeble

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NEWS REPORT TO PARISHES: DODNASH WARD HOLBROOK AND SHOTLEY SURGERY DISTRICT COUNCILLOR JOHN HINTON I have just been re-reading my March 2016 offering. One of the subjects was ‘change’. Well we certainly have some change now. Contrary to all the establishment predictions the ordinary citizen voted for ‘change’ and to leave the EU. Now we must first sort out a leadership situation and then sit down with the rest of Europe and sensibly sort out the legal and administrative mess that is the EU. I originally thought we could instigate change from within. Cameron’s failed ‘negotiations’ persuaded me otherwise. Now it appears that our departure will produce some change, in that other countries in the EU are realising that perhaps we are right and that they should leave. Change is certainly the flavour of the occasion.

Something else that should change is the almost fanatical headlong charge towards ‘devolution’ at, it appears, any price. I missed the vote at Babergh, I was on a ferry in the Bay of Biscay, but it apparently went the predicable way so my comments would have fallen on stony ground. No financial costing, no details of structure, no idea how to replace potential EU funding, mentioned a lot, commuters somehow erased from the transport network (according to the figures)… there were so many things to discuss, not least our relationship with North Essex.

Planning confrontation still appears to be alive. We even have a separate organisation to group potential challenges from parish councils together to add weight to their concerns. I agree it’s the only apparent method to have your voice heard, but it should not be necessary. Councils and their individual councillors should listen and consult before the event, not afterwards as a tick box exercise. Across Europe as well as here in the UK the voice of the people is getting louder and the ‘establishment’ has to listen and not just dismiss questions and concerns as dissent The recent Babergh Joint Monitoring Report highlights the key ‘facts’ influencing the council’s decisions: 157 new homes built last year (makes 144 in East Bergholt look like the ‘need’ for the whole district) shop vacancies up by 8%; employment down (those in work); unemployment up.

So where will the demand for new homes come from? As I highlighted at the annual council meeting, the increase in business rates income for last year was approximately £1,600, hardly enough to fund a council increase in staff numbers which was also ignored in the debate.

Listen, consult and discuss before decisions are made. As the old saying goes: “There is a reason why you have two ears and only one mouth!”

Enjoy what I hope is the arrival of the summer, and my ears are always listening!

Councillor John Hinton

Training days Our next training afternoon will be on Thursday, September 15 when we will be shut from 1pm. There is no training in August. Please ring 111 for advice if your query cannot wait until the following day. In an emergency, dial 999.

Norfolk Diabetes Prevention Study Thank you to the 99 patients who have signed up for this study. It’s not too late to join and follow up letters will be sent shortly. To reassure you, the searches were set up by the NDPS and imported into our system and we sent the letters directly. No information has been shared with NDPS by the practice. If you have any concerns about shared data, please ask for a copy of our Sharing Information Sheet or download one from our website.

Surgery Fund Colin Redmonds undertook the Orwell Walk to raise money for the practice’s Surgery Fund on Sunday, June 26. Karen and I saw him off at 7am and hoped the rain would hold off. He raised more than £600 and money is still coming in so huge thanks to Colin for doing the walk on our behalf and to all those who kindly sponsored him.

Fidget quilts We have taken 15 fidget quilts to Shirley Bruce in Chelmondiston for distribution to local dementia and Alzheimer’s sufferers. If you’d like more information, please ask for me at reception or see page 3.

Clarification about Saturday opening We open for pre-booked appointments and collection of repeat prescriptions on Saturday mornings from 8.30-10.30am. Although our receptionists are on duty the phone lines are switched to 111 so if you try to ring the practice you will get diverted.

Music in our waiting rooms We have now purchased an additional set of CDs to provide a greater variety of waiting room music. We provide the music to help with confidentiality and used to have a number of regular CDs, but this meant we had to have two licences (PRS and PPL) at each site costing around £800 a year. We have been trialling licence-free music, but only had a limited number of tracks so hope the additional tunes will help provide more variety.

Flu clinics Hopefully we will get some summer sunshine soon, but no doubt this will be quickly followed by our annual flu vaccination clinics. Watch this space next month for dates to save in your diary. Those over 65 will automatically be entitled to a free flu vaccination. Those under 65 with an eligible condition will receive a letter. Please register your mobile number with us so we can send you a text reminder too.

Practice Manager Julia Smith

ST ELIZABETH HOSPICE The coffee morning on June 25 raised £179 for the hospice with the weather staying dry, a great relief after all the wet days we had in June. Many thanks to all those who supported the event and a big thank you to my helpers on the day – Shirley, Linda and the two Margarets.

After holding coffee mornings and afternoon teas for the past 12 years I have decided not to run any more so would like to say thank you to all those who either helped, donated raffle prizes or supported the events in any way.

Linda Morrison, Capel St Mary Hospice Rep

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT BENTLEY PARISH COUNCIL

CAPEL LIBRARY

Brief summary of the meeting held on Thursday, July 7

This year’s Summer Reading Scheme is well in progress with the children enjoying the theme of Roald Dahl characters. Many children are progressing well with reading six books throughout the holiday season.

Please could we ask that you come and see the volunteers during the following times:

Six council members attended the parish council meeting at Bentley Village Hall on Thursday, July 7, following a meeting of the Playing Field Society.

A written report was received from County Councillor Gordon Jones and District Councillor John Hinton gave a verbal report.

At the public session, congratulations were offered to Mr John Ball who had been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday honours for his work with his dog Darcy in international Search and Rescue missions.

Attention was drawn to the overgrown state of footpaths at present, and it was suggested that residents might help by taking secateurs with them if using footpaths.

Attention was also drawn to the proposed extension to the Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB to include Dodnash and Long Martin Woods in the parish. Three councillors agreed to attend the public meeting to discuss proposals on July 26 in Lawford.

Members discussed a planning application for a change of use of agricultural buildings at Bentley Plants Ltd to include a club room for a gun club, and increased parking provision. This proposal was strongly opposed.

The meeting also agreed to respond to National Rail networks proposed footpath crossing closures through the footpath warden, Mr Allan Cribb.

Other decisions included progressing enquiries about the potential provision of allotments for the village and further discussion regarding traffic calming measures through the village.

The council noted with pleasure the forthcoming opening of Bentley Community Stores on July 14 by Clare, Countess of Euston, Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk.

Tuesday:

10am-noon & 2-4pm

Wednesday:

10am-noon

Thursday:

10am-noon

Friday:

2-4pm & 5.30-6.30pm

Saturday:

10am-noon & 1.30-2.30pm

Sunday:

10.30am-12.30pm & 1-2.30pm

Many thanks for being patient in waiting for your turn when we are busy.

No regular clubs meet during the summer holidays. Watch out in September all you Baby Bouncers, book club readers and Minecrafters for the dates for return!

We are once again accepting good quality used books for our book sale trolley so if you are having a clear out do think of donating them to us.

Jungle Book Film Showing Friday, August 12, doors open at 10am and the film starts at 10.30am.

Tickets are £4 per child with siblings at £3.50. An ice lolly will be provided.

All under eights must be accompanied by an adult. The duration of the film is 105 minutes. Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

The Friends of Capel library are holding an Astronomical Event at St Mary’s Church hall on Saturday, September 10 at 7.30pm. Advance tickets for adults and children over 12 are £4 or £5 on the night. Children under 12 are free but must be accompanied by an adult. Limited places so book early.

Don’t forget that we also sell book tokens and postage stamps.

Opening times Tuesday:

9.30am-12.30pm & 2-5.30pm

Wednesday:

9.30am-12.30pm

Thursday:

9.30am-12.30pm

Friday:

2-5pm & 5.30-7.30pm

Saturday:

9am-3pm

Sunday:

10am-3pm

Telephone: 01473 311699

FRIENDS OF CAPEL LIBRARY We now approach the summer holidays and the Summer Reading Challenge. Currently we are looking further ahead and hoping to establish a community cinema in 2017.

In September we shall have an astronomical event – watch out for the posters advertising this.

Note too that there will be advantages to being a member of the friends when we organise these events.

I mistakenly suggested that the first prize in our 100 Club was £25 last month. We need a few more members to reach that level! This month’s winners are Di Barker £15, Alison Stewart £5 and Clive Powell £5.

Chris Yule

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OUT & ABOUT TEA & COMPANY

MAKE A WISH COMES TO BURSTALL

Monday, August 15 at Wenham View, Dove Close.

All welcome to come along from 2.30pm. £1.50 for tea/coffee and homemade cakes Raffle Supported by The Capel Ladies Fundraising event at Burstall Village Hall on Saturday, August 13 The Make a Wish Foundation has been close to my heart since I was a child. It brings back very fond memories of fun and outings the whole family enjoyed at a time when hospitals and treatment were a daily occurrence. Today, now that I have established my own business with the help of the Prince’s Trust, I am able to give back to this worthwhile charity that made all the difference to me.

EAST BERGHOLT HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

I am once again holding what is becoming an annual craft fair in Burstall Village Hall. The prize draw this year has been donated by Barrett & Coe to raise much-needed funds for Make A Wish. They have generously donated three vouchers worth £160 for a family photography gift experience and this alone I hope will raise a lot of money for Make a Wish. Tickets are only available on the day.

This year I ring the changes by offering taster workshops ranging from making polymer clay beads and animals to fabric printing with ink pencils and a chance to create and design a Zentangle drawing to start your own mindfulness colouring book. The Craft Loft will also be holding workshops over the summer holidays for children to experience the range of crafts available. See the website for the timetable and programme or to book a craft party.

East Bergholt High School Sunday, September 18 9.30am-noon Admission 50p Refreshments available Free Car Park PITCHES In advance: cars £5, with trailers £7, domestic vans £10 On the day: cars £6, with trailers £8, domestic vans £11 No traders Gates open 8.30am for sellers ( 01206 298122

As a young ambassador for the Prince’s Trust this year, my aim is to inspire and motivate people, on this occasion your inner craving to learn something new and be creative. Many people have seen The Craft Loft at local events and perhaps wondered what it’s all about. Now is your chance to come along and get a taste of what it has to offer and to support a worthy charity at the same time.

So what are you waiting for? Here’s your invitation to come along and find out what we do, enjoy some homemade cake (yes, made by me) tea/ coffee, and browse the many other craft stalls taking part.

For more details on booking a space on the taster sessions please contact me at: alison.mayston@gmail.com I look forward to seeing you on Saturday, August 13, 10am-4pm.

Alison Mayston

www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock

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OUT & ABOUT OPEN DAY AT BLUE CROSS ANIMAL REHOMING CENTRE There will be an open day at the new Blue Cross Animal Rehoming Centre, Bourne Hill, Wherstead IP2 8NQ on Saturday, August 27, noon-4pm.

This an opportunity to see behind the scenes of a working animal rehoming centre.

As well as refreshments there will be various stalls. Entry is free but donations will be gratefully received.

Further information can be obtained from Ian Hendry, vice-chairman of the events and fundraising committee: 01449 767747

PENINSULAR PIX NEWS With July’s two films firmly under our belt, we now take our annual break in the month of August, when traditionally the Pen Pix team take a wellearned rest from showing brilliant films to even more brilliant audiences.

During the past year we have had some real blockbusters that have seen Tattingstone Village Hall bursting at the seams with our regular patrons and, I’m happy to say, many new customers.

When we return in September why don’t you give us a try and enjoy a great night out? Pen Pix is not just about seeing a film, it’s a social night out with a film and a glass of wine, all from as little as £4. Up to 120 people a month can’t be wrong.

When we return in September it will be our annual event in aid of our nominated charity, The Ipswich Diabetes Centre. Over the past four years we have collected more than £1,000 for the charity with our Peter Ward Memorial Movie. I will give more information in next month’s article on what film we will be showing and what Peter Ward means to us at Pen Pix. We, the team at Pen Pix, really hope that all of you have a very enjoyable summer with your families, whatever you are doing. Thank you to everybody who has supported us over the last 11 years, and we hope to provide you with entertainment over the next 11 years and further.

BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET

Saturday, November 26 in aid of Tattingstone Church Travel by coach from Tattingstone to Bath Anticipated departure 7am and return by 10pm Seats £39 Trip is dependent upon sufficient numbers booking If you wish to book please email: lyn_tomlinson@btinternet.com So Much More Than a Dance Class Any Age & Ability Very Welcome No Partners Required

Shimmy, Shake, Wiggle & Giggle to Dance Fitness Fun

"Strictly" style Dance-a-cise

St Mary's Church Hall

The Street Capel St Mary every Thursday 10am & 7pm spaces are limited to reserve yours

Call Janet on 07506 350 455

classes also in: - Brantham - East Bergholt - Hadleigh - Nayland, & - Stratford St Mary

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janet@fundancing.co.uk www.fundancing.co.uk FunDancing.Suffolk FunDancing

In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock

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The very best, natural healthy sleep…guaranteed

All these activities and more from July 26th - 28th and August 16th 18th 23rd and 25th Activities include: • • • • • •

Rounders Football Inflatables

Skating Basketball Badminton

• • •

Football Table tennis And a lot more other fun activities, just ring for further information

Contact us on our website for more information or questions that you may have - www.eastbergholtsportscentre.co.uk Or call us on 01206 299340

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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH MOBILE LIBRARY ROUTE 15 Route 15 Town/village

Location Time

MIP/15A Washbrook

Pearson’s Way

MIP/15B Washbrook

Brook Inn Car Park 10.45-11.15

MIP/15C Washbrook

Fenn View

11.20-11.40

MIP/15D Burstall

Telephone Kiosk

11.50-12.15

MIP/15E Elmsett

Rose and Crown

12.40-13.05

MIP/15F Whatfield

Wheatfields

14.05-14.50

MIP/15G Hintlesham

Timperleys

15.05-16.00

9.50-10.40

2016 DATES: August 17, September 14, October 12, November 8, December 7

BENTLEY CARPET BOWLS BEETLE DRIVE Saturday, September 3 at 7.30pm in Bentley Village Hall.

Tickets £5 including refreshments, a glass of wine or fruit juice. Raffle.

Tickets available from Veronica Howe (310344) or any club member.

TRADITIONAL VILLAGE

TATTINGSTONE Saturday 3rd September 11.30am - 4pm

Birds of Prey Bouncy Castles Dog Agility Punch & Judy Zorbs Tractors Beer Tent

Shooting Range Silver Spinners Majorettes Greyhound Rescue Centre Ice Cream Bell ringing LOTS OF Barbecue FUN FO Tea Tent

Local produce for sale, exhibitions by local artists, children's races, raffle, tombola and lots more

R ALL THE FAMILY

FREE PARKING

www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock

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OUT & ABOUT COPDOCK WITH WASHBROOK MORNING MARKET 10-11am on the first Saturday of each month in the Church Room on The Street.

Bric-a-brac and freshly made cakes and sausage rolls.

ST MICHAEL’S, MONTHLY MARKET The next monthly market at St Michael’s, The Church on the Park, Woolverstone is on Saturday, August 13, 9am-12.30pm.

A chance to buy a whole range of products from local people including fruit, vegetables, cakes, bread, meat and an interesting range of handcrafted items.

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

EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION If you are a member of or a volunteer for the National Trust, we invite you to get more out of your membership by joining our association where a warm welcome awaits you.

We meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre at 7.15pm. Our next meeting is on September 20 when our speaker will be Hugh Belsey, a renowned art historian who was curator of Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury for 23 years. He is a lecturer, book reviewer and a contributor to the TV programme Fake or Fortune. Hugh has travelled extensively throughout the world visiting galleries and unearthing many unexpected treasures. In his talk he will be sharing some of his discoveries, so it promises to be an interesting evening.

On October 18 architectural historian Dr Simon Bradley will be exploring the life and work of Sir Nikolaus Pevsner.

Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome for an entrance fee of £2. National Trust members/volunteers can join us at half the normal price (£4/£6 for a couple at the same address) for the rest of 2016. We publish three newsletters a year for members and enjoy interesting day outings and other events.

For more information, including details of future events and outings, contact our membership secretary: membershipesnta@gmail.com / 01473 723761 www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk

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COPDOCK & WASHBROOK WOMEN’S INSTITUTE JUNE MEETING The Suffolk Show went well despite the weather and our entries gained very respectable scores and good comments. Many thanks to Liz Stowe and our team for their generously-given talent and time.

Linda Evans from Capel St Mary WI was our representative at the annual meeting of the National Federation of WIs, and she joined us to give a report on the day. It was an enjoyable, friendly, informative and constructive meeting which included the voting on the 2016 Resolutions.

Each year the WI membership suggests and votes on resolutions for campaigns to which the WI as a whole can give targetted support. The WI has a powerful voice and over the last 100 years has vigorously and successfully campaigned on a wide variety of causes. The campaigns passed at the 2016 annual meeting were: •

Avoid food waste, address food poverty

•

Appropriate care in hospitals for people with dementia

Our speaker, Pip Wright, presented a talk entitled Watery Places. Pip gave us a beautifully illustrated talk on walks near the lesser known waterways of East Anglia. He had many amusing anecdotes and with an engaging delivery gave us a huge amount of information. He has written several books and if they are half as enjoyable and informative as his talk, then I would fully recommend them.

The weather was pleasant for the Annual Strawberry Evening when members gathered to eat bowls of strawberries and cream and other delicacies and enjoy a few quizzes and a lot of chatter.

The subject of this year’s most challenging quiz was the flags of The Commonwealth, which had been arduously coloured in by the president, but which few seemed to recognise! A good evening much appreciated by the members.

There are many good reasons to join the WI. We enjoy a wide variety of interests and outings, there are plenty of opportunities to be involved with the campaigns supported by the WI, to learn new skills or improve existing skills or just come along to the meetings for companionship and interesting speakers. You can come to three meetings as a visitor to see what goes on before deciding if you would like to join. All visitors and new members are warmly welcomed.

We meet on the third Tuesday of each month (excluding August) at the village hall. The next meeting is on September 20 when our speaker will be Heather Prince on the subject of folk art. Please arrive around 7.15 for a 7.30pm start.

Sandra Howard

CRAFTERS UNLIMITED A craft club for people who like to try different crafts in a light hearted atmosphere, we meet on the first Monday of the month (excluding bank holidays when it’s the second Monday).

Monday, August 1: Book folding plus other projects with the committee Monday, September 5: AGM plus evening project Samples of each project are displayed the month before and other projects are available.

Saturday workshops (10am-4pm) and Monday meetings (7.30-10pm) take place in Wherstead Village Hall. Contact Ann (01473 780298) or Jill (01473 713534).

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AKENHAM CARPENTRY & JOINERY Fitted kitchens, bedrooms, offices, windows, doors, staircases etc in any timber • Kitchen fitting service available on your own units • All interior and exterior carpentry • Competitive rates

NO VAT

Mobile: 07790 370030 Email: dalewatts@btinternet.com Stowe Veterinary Centre

Moreton Hall Veterinary Centre

Ipswich Veterinary Centre

The Mustard Pot Veterinary Surgery

The Old Tea Room Veterinary Surgery

54 Bury Road, Stowmarket

2 Boldero Road, Bury St. Edmunds

Scrivener Drive, Ipswich

Coddenham Road, Needham Market

Station Road, Elmswell

Tel: 01449 613 130

Tel: 01284 747 000

Tel: 01473 555 000

Tel: 01449 722 198

Tel: 01359 241 761

www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock

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Ipswich Office Appointments at your convenience enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com 01473 556 900 Wherstead Park, The Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2BJ Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336

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OUT & ABOUT BENTLEY TUESDAY CLUB

STOUR VALLEY U3A

On June 14 we had a return visit by The Co-op Ladies Choir who, as always, entertained us with a wide variety of songs from various shows, included a selection to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday. At the end of the afternoon, a special tea had been laid to mark this occasion which the 70 odd members and friends present thoroughly enjoyed.

On Wednesday, July 13 Brian Cornell, a former Thames lighterman on the River Thames, talked on The Thames Watermen and Lightermen. This was a most interesting first-hand account of the operating practices of the Port of London in the post-war era.

Our second meeting in June should have been a visit by Canine Partners but this had to be cancelled at the last minute as their speaker was unavailable. Consequently, we were extremely grateful to Tom Crowley from Blue Cross who kindly stepped in at the last minute. He gave a most interesting and informative talk on how the organisation started up to the present day with the opening of their new premises at Wherstead.

Our two meetings in July take place after the copy deadline date so will be reported in the next edition.

On August 9 Maria King will entertain us on her keyboard, and on August 23 Charlie Haylock will be present An Eccentric Look at Surnames. Both meetings will take place at 2.30pm in Bentley Village Hall and everyone is welcome to join us.

BENTLEY TUESDAY CLUB Invite you to a talk by Charlie Haylock entitled AN ECCENTRIC LOOK AT SURNAMES Tuesday, August 23 at 2.30pm in Bentley Village Hall Tea and biscuits, raffle, admission £1

BENTLEY TUESDAY CLUB CHARITY FASHION SHOW BY EDINBURGH WOOL SHOP In aid of East Anglian Air Ambulance Tuesday, October 4 at 2.30pm in Bentley Village Hall Tickets £3, includes tea/coffee and cake Available from Margaret Blackmore (310655) and Veronica Howe (310344) Donation of draw prizes will be most welcome

STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB On July 6 Lewis Tyler talked to us about The River Gipping Trust and on July 20 David Brown presented a talk entitled The Land of the Dragon. Our popular summer lunch took place at the Venture Centre on Sunday, July 17.

No meetings take place in August and our speakers on September 7 and 21 are respectively Tom Hodgson with What the Papers Say and Francis Boardman with The Battle of Waterloo.

Our club endeavours to be simple in structure, free of the constraints and obligations of service clubs and involve members at minimal cost.

The club is directed primarily to providing fellowship between members who are compatible with each other and to providing the opportunity for development of acquaintances. New members are welcomed. We meet at St John Ambulance HQ, Manningtree CO11 1EB on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 10.30am.

For further details please contact our secretary Brian Rolfe: 01206 393665

www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock

We don’t have a speaker meeting in August but hold our popular summer dinner on Friday, August 5 at the Constable Hall.

On Wednesday, September 14 Dr John Ashdown-Hill FSA, FRHistS, historian, writer and lecturer will talk on The Mythology of Richard III. He will explore the traditional mythology and modern myths which have emerged since the discovery of his remains in 2012. Was he a usurper?

How many did he kill? Who was really responsible for finding his remains?

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

Our main purpose is to encourage lifelong learning for those who are no longer in full time employment and emphasis is always placed on making learning active and fun as well as helping in developing friendships. We have a wide range of groups including language study, country walking and computer studies and visits to gardens, churches and historic buildings.

In the main, membership is drawn from communities in the lower Stour Valley and adjacent areas including Brantham, Capel St Mary, Dedham, East Bergholt, Holbrook, Lawford, Manningtree, Raydon and Stratford St Mary. We are affiliated to the ThirdAge Trust and have more than 230 members and 21 groups. For further information please visit www. stourvalleyu3a.org.uk where membership secretary Val Pretty may be contacted.

BELSTEAD CAMEO There were 20 at our June get together where we were joined by Garry from the Coffee Caravan and County Councillor David Busby who arrived bearing gifts of jigsaw puzzles. Garry brought his usual array of useful local information along with a large chocolate cake. At CAMEO we have leaflets available, but Garry has many more and will always be able to provide answers or directions to an appropriate source for anyone who would like information on local services and amenities. He is always happy to help and I would recommend him as a font of knowledge.

Sheila Hardy gave us an amusing and interesting informal talk about the process of getting a book written and published. Her new book is Women of the 1960s, which should bring back memories for many.

There will not be a CAMEO get-together in August, but we will resume in September when we hope to participate in the Macmillan Coffee Morning fundraising campaign.

The aim of Belstead CAMEO (Come And Meet Every One) is to provide an opportunity for residents to meet each other for tea, coffee, refreshments and chat on a drop-in basis. The club is not-for-profit and there is no charge, but a small donation towards refreshments is much appreciated.

Non-residents are very welcome at a charge of £1 – the set-up costs were part funded by the parish council so in fairness we need to levy a small fee for anyone not paying council tax to the parish.

Belstead is a friendly village and we want to increase this community spirit, both on personal and business levels. We aim to promote all types of local interests and have noticeboards showing events, along with information on businesses and charities. You would be amazed at the wealth of talent and scope of business in our small village. It’s always good to know that somebody in the village has recommended the businesses whose cards and information we display.

We meet from 2.30-4.30pm at Belstead Village Hall, usually on the third Monday of the month (excluding July and August).

Sandra Howard

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS VILLAGE LINK CLUB

BELSTEAD GARDEN CLUB

Marianne Braime will present a talk on silver and gemstones on August 10. This will be followed by a fish and chip lunch for club members.

The club visited Kings Seeds at Kelvedon in June, a very informative and interesting evening.

Future talks this year: A Naval Sailor’s Life is a Merry Life (with music); Creative Story Writing; Pavements We Walk On; Nothing Like a Dame; Dedham, Lavenham and the Cloth Trade; Chaplin of the Methodist Homes; Wolves, Dogs and Us; Easter Parade; The Building of Bury Tower.

One tip: water seedlings with tap water and not rainwater due to pollutants that damage them when very young.

Meetings are held in Tattingstone Village Hall on the second Wednesday of every month 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

SUMMER FAMILY ACTIVITIES AT FLATFORD WILDLIFE GARDEN

Wednesday, August 17 is our annual social evening with three open gardens in the village and a cream tea in the hall to which all are welcome.

Hope to see you there, Marilyn Wosahlo

BENTLEY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY ANNUAL SHOW Saturday, August 20 from 2.15pm in Bentley Village Hall.

Sales table, tea and biscuits, raffle.

All welcome.

TATTINGSTONE CEVC PRIMARY SCHOOL We are nearly at the end of another busy school year where lots of exciting events have taken place, but with just a couple of weeks to go there is a still lots happening. To see what we get up to visit: www.tattingstonecevcpschool.co.uk A Penny Race was held and subsequently won by the Black House team raising £160. Excitement was high at the school barbecue with lots of children jumping on the bouncy castle, lovely prizes being won and hot dogs and burgers being consumed. The children did well thinking up and running their own stalls. Thank you to the PTA for organising the event and to everyone who supported the school. The amount raised was just over £1,000.

Photo by Sharon Barker If you’re looking for something for the children to do during the long holidays that involves them being outside in the fresh air and engaging with nature in beautiful surroundings, look no further than RSPB Flatford Wildlife Garden. Playing outside helps children to develop resilience, confidence and problem-solving skills. The RSPB also believes that it helps to nurture a feeling of connection with nature and hopefully a sense of responsibility about what happens to it in the future.

Here at the garden we are running family activities every day during the school holidays, with a programme that changes from week to week. Bug hunts, wormeries, nature trail challenges, making bird feeders, planting wildlife-friendly plants to take home and craft activities are all on the list.

No need to book, just turn up and join in. We open at 10.30am and the gates close at 4.30pm. There is a small charge that includes all activities available on the day, and there is a discount for RSPB members.

If you haven’t visited us for a while, you’ll find that some new features have been added to the garden since last year. In among the lushly filled beds and borders you’ll find new additions to the family trail, such as log piles to rummage in, a child-sized nest box, a wonderful living willow tunnel to race through and a joyous roly-poly hill to roll down. So, all this set in the peaceful surroundings of the garden that slopes gently down towards the Stour, with plenty of places to picnic, means that there’s something for everyone. We look forward to seeing you.

For more details, please visit: www.rspb.org.uk/Flatford

In the last couple of weeks of term the whole school will have taken part in the Jump Rope for Heart fundraising event, the school production of The Tudors, Sports Day and a day trip to Rendlesham Forest. Additionally, Puffins (Years 1 and 2) and Ducklings (Reception) will have visited Alton Water where they pond dipped, sailed the boats they made in design and technology, sketched scenes of the area, led by Julia Temple, and studied the geography and history of Alton Water.

Our new Reception children have had their induction visits and met their ‘buddies’ from Years 5 and 6 who will look after them when they start school in September. All the children have had a transition day in their new classes, with the new Reception children coming in for the morning and lunchtime.

The Year 6 children who are moving on to Holbrook Academy have enjoyed two transition days, experiencing a range of different lessons in preparation for September. On the last day of term, in our Leavers Service at the church, we will be saying a sad farewell to another outstanding set of children and wishing them well in the next stage of their learning.

Thank you to all in the community who have supported our children in some way over the last year. We look forward to sharing another exciting year with you in September.

Diary dates September 5: Children return to school November 1: School Open Day Co-opted Governor Rebecca Wallis

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SCHOOLS ROBIN’S NEWS Baby Bears

Toddling Tigers The Toddling Tigers have been exploring water using their senses of touch, taste and smell during water week. Melting ice and printing with ice cubes has been so much fun. Water week has no limits.

We have been splashing and experimenting each day using different tools to create bubbles and the perfect splash.

Gruffalos Well another pre-school year has flown by and as we enjoy our summer holidays it will not be long before we welcome new children to the Gruffalo room and our existing children become our grown up Gruffalos.

The Baby Bears had fun making lots of insects using their fingers, hands and feet for National Insect Week.

A parent from Robin’s kindly built us a new pergola in the Baby Bears garden which looks fab and we are currently making lots of pretty crafts to hang from it. It makes a lovely cosy, shaded area for the babies to chill in when playing in the sun becomes too much.

As you read this we are also getting creative for our new ‘under the sea’ display to go with our water week. What a busy summer we are having.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock

At the end of term we said goodbye and good luck to our Gruffalos who are heading off to school in September. As always it is a time of mixed emotions, we feel so proud of how far these children have come as they prepare to spread their wings and of course we will miss them lots too. Some of them have been with us since they were babies. We would like to wish our leavers, existing and new Gruffalos a wonderful summer and see you all soon.

If you would like any information about Robin’s Childcare please contact Vicki on 01473 310767, visit www.robinschildcare.co.uk or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

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Summer Sale Now On

furniture

£399

£399

Sale price RRP £599

£375

Sale price RRP £599

Only available at the Stonham store

Cane sofas

from

£299

Sale price RRP £529

£89

Sale price RRP £139

furniture www.harpersfurniture.co.uk

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£549

Only available at the Ipswich store

Sale price RRP £769

York solid oak slat bed

Sale price RRP £549

£299

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SCHOOLS BENTLEY CEVC PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FETE Thank you to everyone who supported the PTA summer fete. We were very lucky with the weather with just a couple of showers towards the end of the proceedings. The children performed the Zumba dance they had been practising at school to open the event and thoroughly enjoyed getting involved with lots of activities including tug of war and hay bale rolling.

Thanks to the support of our families and the community, the PTA are pleased to announce that the fete made a total of £1,582.79. Thank you and well done to everyone involved.

NEW ARRIVAL The children and staff alike are very excited about the newest member of the Bentley Primary School family. Limpy, one of our chickens, has successfully hatched a chick.

As the father is called Fluffy, the chick is currently being called Flump. Flump hatched on the Friday evening before the summer fete and appears to be doing well. Our sincere thanks to the Coopers who have lent us a run and house at very short notice for this unexpected arrival. The Coopers have a long history with the school and their continued support is very much appreciated.

SPORTS DAY Sports Day 2016 was a resounding success.

We didn’t get drenched and the events, new and old, proved very popular. We even had a record number of participants for the ladies and gentlemen’s races and the very cute toddler race. We are all so proud of the children in our school, every single one of them gave it their all in every event they took part in. The scores were the closest they have been for many years and congratulations go to the red team who just pipped the yellows to the post to become this year’s winners. Well done to everyone.

DOGS ON THE SCHOOL FIELD The only downside to sports day was that we found dog poo on the school field right near where some of the events were set to take place.

We would respectfully remind everybody in the community that dogs are not permitted on the school field in the interest of the children’s safety and wellbeing. Thank you in anticipation for your cooperation in this matter.

GRANT RECEIVED We are very pleased to confirm that we have received a grant from Councillor Gordon Jones for hi-vis vests and reflectors for the pupils.

Councillor Jones visited us a couple of months ago to have a look round our wonderful little school and to talk about future plans. He was particularly interested in the local visits that we take part in and the school’s commitment to the environment. To help with our plans to introduce more walking to school weeks and hopefully a ‘walking bus’ he has kindly donated some money from his locality budget. We would like to thank Councillor Jones for his support.

PLEASUREWOOD HILLS In recognition of all their hard work, pupils in Years 5 and 6 were taken on a trip to Pleasurewood Hills this term. There were plenty of shrieks and laughter and our pupils represented themselves and the school very positively. This annual event is heavily subsidised by the PTA to lessen the cost to parents and we would like to thank them for their contribution again this year and all the other trips they have contributed to over the school year. The PTA are an extremely hard working group of people but need more members to share the load. Please speak to one of the existing members if you can spare your time and support. Thank you.

EXCITING PLANS The end of the school year is always busy and this year has been no exception. The upper end of the school, Years 4 to 6, is planning an exciting trip to parliament and other sights in London, including Westminster Abbey. This is a massive undertaking as we are taking all pupils from Years 4, 5 and 6 from both here at Bentley and also Copdock Primary. Not to be outdone, the rest of the pupils from both schools will be heading to the beach at Felixstowe for the day. These trips are just two of a number of exciting trips and events that have been taking place this term and come at the end of an exceedingly good year for the school – with a strong Ofsted inspection and SIAMS inspection (inspection for church schools) and our numbers swelling. We look back on the year with a huge smile and a well done to all the children, families, community members and staff who make this school such a special place.

FINAL FAREWELLS Of course, the school would be nothing without our wonderful, hardworking and caring pupils and at this time of year, we find ourselves saying a teary farewell to our Year 6 pupils as they prepare to transition to high school. Olaf, Tommy, Remmi and Ruben have all contributed to our successes this year and we wish them all the very best as they take their next step in their education. We hope Bentley will always hold a special place in your memories.

CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL We are all really grateful for our well-earned break and are going to enjoy what sun we can get. It will be really exciting in September to say hello to all our new starters. There are still a few spaces available so if you are interested in joining us please speak to the administrator or send us an email.

Our open event was really successful and a big thank you to everyone who was involved, either helping out or just coming to look around.

Summer Holiday Club There are still spaces available for some days. Please call us on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday between 9am and 3.30pm if you would like to book a day. The club for ages two-to-eight and will run until September 1. It’s £20 for a full day (bring a packed lunch) and £12 for either a morning (9am-noon) or afternoon (12.30-3.30pm) session.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock

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 (noon12.30pm) 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 at Easter and in the summer holidays for two to eight year olds – further information can be obtained by contacting the administrator.

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

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SPORT BENTLEY BOWLS CLUB

EAST BERGHOLT UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB

We are now half way through the season and have had mostly good weather, although one game had to be rescheduled due to rain.

The club held its AGM in June. Martin Peck was elected as the new chairman to succeed Tony Moss.

In the Samford League we are still doing very well, winning all our games.

Let’s hope it continues. In the Triples League, we’re not doing so well, only winning three of our nine games.

We have played our club triples competition with John Alexander, Mark Boyland and Martin Porter the winners.

We have had a donation from the Ipswich Lions in memory of Peter Bumphrey, who was one of our members, and have bought some new mats, score cards holders and a spare Jack. Many thanks to them.

Our Friday night roll ups continue from 6.30pm. If you would like to come along and try the game you would be most welcome.

Lillian Calvert, 311756

BELSTEAD CARPET BOWLS CLUB The summer league is progressing after a slow start. We started with a visit from Stutton and a reasonably comfortable 8-2 win got our programme up and running.

A run of away games followed, the first of which was at Brantham. In past seasons this hasn’t always been a happy hunting ground so we were very pleased to come home with a 7-3 win. Bealings was our next port of call and while there was some good bowling in the match we were too strong for what was their second team and we won 8-2.

Continuing our travels, the return match with Stutton produced some close games with the result of two games not being decided until the last ends. With both clubs winning one we ended with a 6-4 win.

The last game in this report was at Copdock where we have had some very close games and this year was no exception when a last end win ensured us of a 6-4 win.

So with five wins from five matches things are looking good but there is still some way to go in the season.

Pre-season training got under way on July 4 at Gandish Road. New players always welcome. The new season gets under way in August.

Fixtures subject to change. Please refer to http://tinyurl.com/hlv54p6 and chose the appropriate competition to confirm.

Events currently scheduled September Quiz Night November Race Night We are always looking for people who can help the club as a committee member, 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 offer exposure for your business while supporting a local organisation.

EBUFC is a community club with very strong village traditions. The majority of the players either live in or have links to the village. Please come along and give us a look sometime.

Steve Butcher, stevebutcher55@btinternet.com

BENTLEY CARPET BOWLS Rick Seal Trophy On Wednesday, June 8 we held our home match against Capel St Mary for the Rick Seal Cup. This is an annual event when we encourage all club members to play. This year we won all four mats after some very close games and won the cup back from Capel St Mary.

After the matches were played we had a very nice tea followed by a raffle.

Thank you to everybody who so generously donated prizes for the raffle.

At the end of the afternoon we were able to donate £111 to Cancer Research UK. This amount was raised from fees to play and the raffle.

A very happy afternoon was had by all and we look forward to playing away at Capel St Mary in six months time.

Friendly match against Harkstead Carpet Bowls Club On Tuesday, June 28 we held a friendly match against Harkstead Bowls Club. It was great to play a game when all pressure was off and we could all enjoy the game. The meaning of ‘friendly’ was slightly forgotten on occasion, but there was lots of friendly banter from the sidelines. Both clubs won two matches, but Harkstead were the overall winners on shots. Well done Harkstead.

We concluded the evening with refreshments a raffle and lots of chatter.

We now look forward to playing Harkstead away later in the month.

Jill Mills, chairperson Also see BENTLEY CARPET BOWLS BEETLE DRIVE on page 19.

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In Touch online:

CHURCH NEWS THE NORTH SAMFORD BENEFICE

Sproughton with Burstall, Copdock with Washbrook and Belstead and Bentley with Tattingstone

Suffolk Historic Churches Trust Bicycle Ride September 10, 9am-5pm

For parish queries please contact:

Harvest Services

The Rev Annette Shannon The Rectory, Glebe Close, Sproughton IP8 3BQ revannettes@aol.co.uk / 01473 807674 Benefice Administrator Hayley Purnell northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com / 07713 863023 Friends, Some years ago, we took our church away for the day. Not far, just to the coast where we borrowed a church building and included in the day’s programme a couple of sessions of discussion, prayer and thought about the future of our church. Eddie Vass, who at that time was responsible for finding ministers for a string of independent churches around the country, came to lead us.

He told us how he had attended some kind of conference-cum-festival as one of the speakers. As he sat waiting his turn to speak, God spoke to him, and they were not comfortable words. “Eddie,” God said. “I called you to run a lifeboat station. You have joined a yacht club.”

There’s nothing wrong with a yacht club. But as a picture of a church, it stands for an organisation that exists primarily for the benefit of its members. It can be difficult to get into, but membership brings benefits.

You pay a subscription and enjoy privileges. You may get to know knowledgeable and, perhaps, well-connected people. It can be run to suit its members’ preferences, comfort and convenience. The club exists for the enjoyment, pleasure, interest, benefit and relaxation of its members.

A lifeboat station, on the other hand, exists entirely for the benefit of people who are not its members. All who belong there work together as a team in the serious business of saving lives. Those who make up the crew of the lifeboat lay their own lives on the line in order to rescue people who are lost and in danger, and bring them back and set them on firm ground.

Another nautical simile, beloved of some Christian folk, is the ‘workingship-not-a-cruise-liner’ contrast. We’ve all got a job to do, we don’t carry passengers. True enough, but it misses an important point; what job is it doing? It would be easy to slip into the comfortable assumption that it was just about maintaining the ship and keeping it afloat.

The lifeboat exists to save lives. That presupposes that there are lives that need saving. Jesus said: “The Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost” (Luke 19.10). Saving the lost is his passion and he calls us to share it.

So ask yourself: is our church preoccupied with its traditions, its furniture and its fundraising, or are its priorities to listen in prayer, to learn more of God’s purposes, and to find ways of communicating the Good News to the people round about? Is it a yacht club or a lifeboat station?

The Rev Tony Wilcox We have a Facebook page where services and events are updated: www.facebook.com/northsamfordbenefice Bentley Evening Prayer Fridays, August 5 and 26, September 2 and 23, all at 6.30pm in the church Burstall Show August 6 in the village hall – flower show and fete with refreshments all day Baptism Party August 28 at The Rectory for our baptism families from the past three years, 3-5pm

September 25: 11am at St Mary’s, Belstead followed by lunch in the village hall September 25: 11am at St Mary’s, Bentley followed by lunch October 7: 6.30-7pm Copdock Harvest Supper at St Peter’s / Harvest Service in the church on October 9 October 9: 10am Harvest Service at All Saint’s, Sproughton followed by brunch in the church hall October 9: 11am Harvest Service, St Mary’s, Burstall followed by lunch October 9: 6pm Harvest Service at St Mary’s, Tattingstone followed by Harvest Supper Teddy Bear Parachute Jump and Paper Aeroplane Competition September 11 at 3pm at All Saint’s Church, Sproughton. £1 entry, refreshments available.

FROM THE REGISTERS Weddings Michael Vaughan & Anne Sheldon – Sproughton Allan Jolley & Sally Keeble – Sproughton Burial of Ashes Anthony Lambkin – Burstall Baptisms Shayla Stacey – Copdock Presley Stacey – Copdock Sienna Stacey – Copdock AUGUST 3 Bentley Home Communions, 10am 4 Bentley Coffee & Company, 10am

5 Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm 6 Burstall Show 13 Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am 17 Copdock Home Communions, 10am 26 Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm 28 Baptism Party at the Rectory, 3-5pm 30 Copdock PCC Meeting SEPTEMBER 1 Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm

Bentley Coffee & Company, 10am 2 Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm 3 Copdock Morning Market, 10am 5 Ministry Meeting at The Rectory, noon 7 Bentley Home Communions, 10am 10 Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am

SHCT Cycle Ride, 9am-5pm 11 Teddy Bear Parachute Jump, 3pm 14 Churchwarden’s Meeting, Copdock Church Room, 1pm 21 Copdock Home Communions, 10am

Tattingstone PCC Meeting 23 Bentley Evening Prayer, 6.30pm 24 Sproughton Beetle Drive, 7.30pm 25 Belstead Harvest Service at 11am followed by lunch in the

village hall 25 Bentley Harvest Service at 11am followed by lunch Services continued on the next page

www.keepingintouchwith.com/copdock

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CHURCH NEWS SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE AUGUST 5 6.30pm Bentley Evening Prayer AUGUST 7 9.30am Burstall Holy Communions 10am Bentley Family Service 10am Copdock Morning Prayer 10am Tattingstone Morning Prayer 11am Sproughton Holy Communion AUGUST 14 9.15am Sproughton Croissant Church 9.30am Burstall Family Service 10am Copdock Holy Communion 10am Bentley Family Service 6pm Tattingstone Evensong AUGUST 21 9.30am Burstall Family Service 10am Copdock Simply Sunday 10am Bentley Holy Communion 6pm Sproughton Evensong 6pm Tattingstone Evensong

AUGUST 26 6.30pm AUGUST 28 9.30am 10am 10am 10am 10am 11am SEPTEMBER 2 6.30pm SEPTEMBER 4 8am 10am 10am 10am 9.30am 11am

Bentley

Evening Prayer

Burstall Bentley Belstead Copdock Tattingstone Sproughton

Matins Family Service Morning Celebration Family Service Holy Communion The Fourth Sunday

Bentley

Evening Prayer

Copdock Bentley Copdock Tattingstone Burstall Sproughton

Holy Communion Family Service Morning Prayer Holy Communion Holy Communion Holy Communion

Please submit church letters and copy for the September edition of In Touch to Hayley Purnell by August 4: northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com

CAPEL AND HOLBROOK METHODIST CHURCHES HOPE FOR OUR NATION Last month I spoke about the need for reconciliation and healing after the results of the football and the referendum would be known. Briefly the football had an inspirational and spirited performance by the Welsh team. The dismal failure of the English team has already cost the job of the manager, and I expect there will be more recriminations. Success in other sports has been welcome.

All this is marginal in comparison to the ugly and disturbing mood in the nation after the referendum vote. In the referendum campaign, language was at times vicious and unacceptable and things said have left a slow acting poison in people’s minds that will be difficult to deal with, and both sides in the campaign bear some responsibility. Few are really happy with the result. A significant number of voters on the leave side now regret voting that way as some of the promises of Brexit have now been dismissed as mistakes or lies. The leaders of Brexit had made no real plans for the future – not expecting to win – and are now stepping back from the front line. The remain voters are angry, not just because of the lies, but also that the campaign became a personal battle between two factions of the Conservative party. This led to the majority support from Labour, Lib Dems and the Scottish National Party being side-lined.

The contrast in voting behaviour of the young and the old leaves the young feeling penalised.

British society normally copes with robust discussions without breakdown in relationships. A spirit of tolerance and politeness has underlined society for years. The referendum and its aftermath has shown that is a very thin veneer with many cracks allowing the poison of racism, discrimination and victimisation of groups to seep out and appear acceptable. It is not acceptable and the Methodist Conference meeting in London in July calls on us to: • Challenge racism and discrimination • Not to demonise or leave vulnerable the foreigner, the immigrant and the refugees in danger of victimisation • Work for the common good of the whole community • Hear the voices of the marginalised and alienated and offer real hope and healing for the future Ordinary people like us may feel unable to make an impact on the national scene, but we can make a difference at the local level and that is where it needs to start, sometimes in our own families. We can have

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discussion and disagreement without using vicious, hurtful and hateful language. We need to ensure a root of bitterness is not allowed to grow.

We all need to stop and think about the words we use and what impact they have on the hearer and those to whom they may be repeated. Let us be those who offer hope and reconciliation and offer an optimistic view of how Britain can develop and still play a role on the world scene.

The Rev Andrew Sankey Minister at Capel and Brantham Methodist Churches 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG apsankey@gmail.com / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 AT CAPEL ST MARY METHODIST Sunday 7 10.30am Worship with Rev David Thompson

6.30pm Prayer Stations Sunday 14 10.30am Worship with Rev Chris Jowett Sunday 21 10.30am Worship with Rev Andrew Docherty Sunday 28 10.30am Worship and Communion with

Rev Andrew Sankey

7.30pm United Prayer Time at Methodist Church AT HOLBROOK METHODIST What’s on in August (HCT Holbrook Churches Together) Mondays, 2.30-4pm: Tea and Chat (HCT) Sunday 7 10am Worship with Mr Geoff Wilson Sunday 14 10am Worship and Communion with Rev

Michael Ayden Sunday 21 10am Worship with Mr Brian Loader Sunday 28 10am Worship with Mrs Diane Sawyer FESTIVAL OF MUSIC & SONG, CHELMONDISTON METHODIST CHURCH A variety of styles of music and song, 6.45pm followed by refreshments Sunday, July 31 Peninsula Singers – a local choral group Sunday, August 7 Elmsett Fellowship Brass Band Sunday, August 14 The Masson Family – singing the old favourites Sunday, August 21 Mary Sagar – singing Christian Country and Gospel Sunday, August 28 Male Voice Choir – a local group

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ROYAL HOSPITAL SCHOOL HOLBROOK CHORAL SOCIETY

E R

A

U R

C E R

G

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I

!

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 19 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