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with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market
Volume 4 • Issue No. 3 • JANUARY 2017
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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I spent some time chatting to one of the mums from the school gate recently, a woman I’ve admired from afar for some time as she always has the biggest smile. Of course she’s always surrounded by other mums, as happy, engaging people tend to be. I’ve imagined how wonderful her life must be, how much fun it would be to be her for a day, how lovely it must be to begin each and every day with delight, as surely she much do. Or so I imagined. As it turns out I was completely wrong. As we chatted and I learned a little more about this remarkable woman, I came to realise how lucky I am. Her life has been, and continues to be, challenging, even heartbreaking, in ways I never hope to experience. And yet she faces each and every day with a smile. I know I don’t, as no doubt my work colleagues can attest. It’s all relative you might say, but is it possible that I’ve simply developed a selfish streak and forgotten to appreciate what I do have? In Ireland I’d be called a me-feiner, someone who thinks only of themselves, the nastiest put down you can get on Irish soil. Have I adopted a less cheerful persona simply because it’s easier or, and this may be the crux of it, because it has become a bad habit? Now I don’t think I’m a miserable sod, but I do have a tendency to see the dark side first, which possibly explains my addiction to Leonard Cohen. Perhaps it’s a trait I’ve inherited, perhaps it’s cultural, perhaps it’s just who I am, but right now I’m determined to fight it. I know my worries won’t disappear overnight, but how I deal with them might make them easier to bear. My insecurities may be deeply embedded (I am 47 after all), but I’m keen to see how others react when I present a happier face to the world. I know we all have days when all we want to do is keep our heads down and do what we have to do without interruption or interference, but wouldn’t it be interesting to see how others react if you reach out, maybe starting tentatively with a smile. Let’s do this experiment together in 2017 and hope we all have a wonderful, happier, more fulfilling and smilier year. Happy New Year from my colleagues and I here at Mansion House Publishing
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Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market
In Touch with Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market 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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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 Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter & Needham Market is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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IN TOUCH WITH . . . • Hadleigh • Stowmarket • Capel St Mary • East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford • Kesgrave & Rushmere • Sproughton & Burstall • Claydon, Barham & Henley • Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Brantham • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Bramford, Offton & Somersham • Woodbridge & Melton • Gt. & Lt. Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead • Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St. Martin • Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone • Ipswich East, Broke Hall, Ravenswood & Warren Heath • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Pin Mill, Holbrook, Woolverstone & Erwarton
NEEDHAM MARKET SOCIETY
THE ROUND TOWER CHURCHES OF EAST ANGLIA A talk by Stuart Bowell
Wednesday, January 25, 7.30pm In the Burton Room at Needham Market Community Centre All welcome, non-members £2
MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE Life Through the Eyes of East Anglian Artists art exhibition Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-4pm, until March 11 This popular exhibition features paintings, drawings and watercolours by well-known 19th and 20th century artists from our region, many of which have never been publicly displayed before. The pictures will be complemented by artefacts from the museum collection to connect what we see with how we live now and in the past. Lisa Harris, collections and interpretation manager, says: “The exhibition will cover farming and country life including harvest and the wool trade, as well as taking a look at the coastal economy and transport in the countryside.” Some of the artists may be familiar such as John Moore, Arthur James Stark and brothers Thomas and Edward Robert Smythe from the 19th century and the drawings of 20th century artists Anna Airy and Harry Becker. All have connections with East Anglia and the works have been selected to illustrate the living and working conditions of local people. The works that feature in this exhibition are selected from the private collection of the late Harold Day, author of many books on East Anglian art who began collecting in the early 1960s. Many of the oil paintings are presented in their original frames and most have never been on public display before. This exhibition represents a unique opportunity to see these beautiful pictures in the historic Abbots Hall, alongside examples of the real life objects selected from the Museum of East Anglian Life’s own collection.
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A Shepherd Boy, oil on canvas by John Duvall
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NEWS
Pupils from Bosmere CP School at Millennium Memorial Needham Market on November 11 with Peter Down (left) and Jim Darrah RBL Standard Bearer (right)
RECORD POPPY APPEAL COLLECTION IN NEEDHAM MARKET AND DISTRICT The Poppy Appeal district which includes Needham Market, Creeting St Mary, Creeting St Peter, Baylham and Akenham, has produced another record collection of £7,100, surpassing the previous record of £6,375 set two years ago.
The Royal British Legion collaborates with other military charities, and also with the NHS, social services and housing associations to establish the most appropriate form of care for each individual injured serviceman/ woman and their families.
Peter Down, chairman of the Needham Market Branch of the Royal British Legion, which organises the Poppy Appeal in the area, expressed his grateful thanks to the generosity of all members of the small communities which make up the poppy district. He also thanked the hotels, pubs, shops and other outlets who hosted collection boxes and the volunteer cashiers who processed the full cans, banked the money, then analysed the results to assist planning for next year’s appeal.
Advice and assistance is provided to eligible cases, irrespective of age, who may, due to injury, illness or changes in personal or family circumstances, find themselves having difficulty in coping with daily life. The ways in which help is provided are many; ranging from mobility aids, such as electrically powered scooters, or grab handles to assist getting around the house, to help with food or basic furnishings and debt management for those in financial difficulties. Those seriously injured in recent conflicts may be referred to specialist services such as Battleback (for sports-based physiotherapy) and personnel rehabilitation centres. Nationally, the Royal British Legion spends £10,000 every hour of every day in support of those in need; equivalent to £240,000 per day or £1.6million per week and has helped beneficiaries to access £49million in benefits, war pensions and armed forces compensation. In 2015 over £300,000 was received by beneficiaries in Suffolk.
Volunteer Poppy Collector Lillian Chester (right) of Needham Market is congratulated on her 46 years of service and May Aldred (left) of Creeting St Mary is congratulated on her 33 years The long service of 12 poppy sellers in the district, who between them have sold poppies for over 390 years, was recognised at an awards ceremony at Creeting House on November 27. Peter explained the role of the Royal British Legion in providing care in a wide range of ways for the injured and their dependents among the community of the Armed Forces. “The wonders of medical science are saving the lives of battlefield casualties who years ago would have been lost, but the equipment and support services are expensive and, since some of those injured (both physically and mentally) are still in their 20s and, it is hoped, may now have a full life span, this need for care is likely to continue into the foreseeable future.” Anyone who has served in the British Armed Forces or Reserves and drawn at least one week’s pay is eligible for assistance from the Royal British Legion, as are their immediate dependents.
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Letters of appreciation are regularly received by RBL from grateful recipients of help. For reasons of confidentiality we are unable to publicise details, but please be assured that the generosity of the public in supporting the work of the RBL is much appreciated. Needham Market and District RBL Branch seeks to involve school children in remembrance and the Poppy Appeal. “They are our next generation of citizens,” said Peter Down, “and it is important that they should understand the messages of remembrance.” Children from Bosmere County Primary School undertook projects on a theme of remembrance and participated in a service of commemoration at the Millennium Memorial on Armistice Day, November 11, when they laid sprays of poppies in company with Councillor Xy Stansfield, Mayor of Needham Market, and Lt Col Frank Lea, President of Needham Market Royal British Legion. The children recited the poignant poem In Flanders Fields. In parallel, children from Creeting St Mary Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School attended a service of commemoration in the Parish Church of St Mary, where they laid a cross of poppies and a wreath that they had made. Earlier they had been addressed by a member of the Royal British Legion on the significance of remembrance. He said that the children had been a most attentive audience and had posed some searching questions.
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NEWS SODS YOUTH THEATRE SEEKS NEW MEMBERS FOR ANYTHING GOES
MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCILLORS MIKE NORRIS & WENDY MARCHANT
Stowmarket Operatic & Dramatic Society’s youth section will perform the hit musical Anything Goes at The Mix on March 18 and 19 and are looking to recruit young performers in School Year 9-13 to join the cast.
CHRISTMAS IN NEEDHAM MARKET Firstly congratulations to the town council on the lovely natural Christmas Trees in the High Street, and the businesses, especially the Moore family who run the post office and now a café, for the Needham Market Street Fayre, which was a great success.
Anything Goes is a lively show full of comedy, song and dance. Set on Youth group’s recent production of board the SS American, it Guys and Dolls, by Meryl Bunce follows the antics of two stowaways, the passengers and the crew on the Atlantic crossing from New York to England.
GIPSY LANE LEVEL CROSSING Mike and Graham Oxenham were interviewed on BBC Radio Suffolk on a cold November 25 morning about progress of the use of the proposed culvert at Badley, the preferred option to replace the Gipsy Lane level crossing where there was a fatal accident some years ago. NON ENFORCEMENT OF DOUBLE YELLOW LINES There has been concern about this for some time, particularly at junctions with side roads in Needham Market High Street. Police resources have been reduced and parking enforcement is not one of their priorities, so local authorities are considering taking over this function by ‘decriminalising’ it. Mid Suffolk will be bringing a full report about this to their executive at the beginning of 2017. In the meantime it continues to be the responsibility of the police. Mid Suffolk Senior Officer Chris Fry has said he will bring this up with Civil Parking Enforcement Inspector Paul Sharp when they next meet.
SOD’s youth group meets every Wednesday during term time between 7 and 9pm at The Mix to rehearse and have fun. If you would like to join, please contact meryl@bunce.eu for further information. Younger members (School Years 5-8) are also welcome to apply to go on the junior group waiting list. YOUR CHANCE TO BE PART OF A STAGE MUSICAL If you’ve ever wanted to be part of a stage musical, this is your chance. SODS is about to cast its spring production of the Broadway hit Mame, and new members are welcome.
PROTRACTED ROAD CLOSURES Protracted road closures cause great inconvenience to motorists, causing missed appointments, lateness for work, extended journeys costing both time and money – and sometimes there seems to be no work going on at the ‘road works’. Wendy has asked if the ‘rent a road’ scheme used by the Highways Agency when contractors or utilities have closed major roads for road works could be adopted. If contractors and utility providers had to pay rent for the time they were closing the road for repairs, they would have an incentive to do the work more quickly.
Open read throughs will be held on Tuesday, January 17 and Thursday 19 at 7.30pm at Red SODS’ recent pantomime Gables on Ipswich Road. Sinbad and the Magical Mystery Open auditions will be held on Sunday, January 22 and the show will be performed at The Regal Theatre from May 10-13. If you are interested in joining SODS and taking part in this and future productions, either on stage or behind the scenes, please email stowmarketods@gmail.com, just turn up at a read through or visit: www.stowmarketoperatic.org.uk
STOWMARKET AND DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE New Year – new start? Meet and connect with other small businesses in the heart of Suffolk.
BUS STOPS AND BUS SHELTERS Specifically in Needham Market High Street, Stowmarket Road and Ipswich Road Because of the prolonged road works in Stowmarket Road, the contractor moved some of the bus stops without prior notice or adequate signage for bus users, which meant some people missed the bus they wanted to catch. This problem highlighted the bus stops and bus shelters on this route altogether. One of the bus users went to the trouble of doing a survey which has been copied to the town council and the SCC Highways Officer as some bus shelters are town council and some are county council. Wendy will forward it to the bus company who are involved in the bus stops.
The chamber holds two regular networking events each month, an informal coffee morning in Needham Market on the first Friday of the month (from February) and breakfast networking in Stowmarket on the third Friday of the month (from January). We don’t insist on membership nor do we operate a lock-out. To find out more about our support for businesses and book for our events visit: www.stowmarketchamber.co.uk
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PROPOSED BLOCK OF RESIDENTIAL FLATS ON LION BARN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE Mike and Wendy requested that this go before the planning committee meeting on Wednesday, December 21. Mike Norris: mike.norris@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720871 Wendy Marchant: wendy.marchant@midsuffolk.gov.uk / 01449 720965
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Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number
of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing
a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
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NEWS STOWMARKET CONCERT BAND Make music your New Year’s resolution 2016 was a year packed with concerts. We performed in a huge variety of places and joined with choirs, bagpipes, handbells and our own training band in the finale of the year, our Christmas concert.
The main band has performed a variety of pieces from old band favourites like Trailblaze, traditional band tunes like Floral Dance through to brand new arrangements written for us like Fairytale of New York. We have welcomed new players during the year, but also said goodbye to our conductor Adrian Waite who has retired (although we did resurrect him at Christmas for one last goodbye). In the capable hands of long serving band member Richard Chapman, we begin working on our 2017 programme which is sure to feature a mix of new pieces and band classics. We are now looking for our next intake of learners in our training band. No musical knowledge is needed and there is no age limit (minimum to be around eight years old but can discuss). We have a range of instruments available including cornets, trombones, baritones, tenor horns and even baby tubas, so if you are interested, get in touch with us and come along and try something out. For more details visit www.stowmarketconcertband.org.uk, email trainingband@stowmarketconcertband.org.uk or call Melanie Blanchard on 07809 709419.
IPSWICH AND DISTRICT SOROPTIMIST CLUB Happy Birthday Lighthouse! Over 12 months many local organisations are arranging events to celebrate 40 years of Women’s Aid in Ipswich. We are now busy preparing our birthday present, a day at the university with key note speakers, stalls and displays. The focus will be on equality. How far have women come in the 40 years? What still remains to be achieved? We hope to range from the abuse and discrimination experienced by the women whom Lighthouse and similar organisations support to a wider review of the barriers to progress in our whole society. Please note the date: Friday, February 10. Full details will be advertised at the beginning of the new year with booking via Eventbrite. We have just received greetings from our twin club in Arras including an invitation to visit them in the autumn. Our speaker on January 11 will update us on the work of the Citizens’ Advice Bureau. If you would like to know more about our club or would like to visit us, please call Jackie: 01473 659314
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NEWS REPORT FROM KEITH WELHAM, DECEMBER 2016 District Councillor for Stowupland and Creeting St Peter In many ways, 2016 has been a difficult year for local councils and Mid Suffolk has had many difficult issues to tackle. The lack of a five-year supply of land for new housing development has resulted in a number of applications receiving consent, often on appeal, which would not have been approved if MSDC could have demonstrated that sufficient land were available. This problem will not go away until BDC and MSDC have an approved Joint Local Plan and land with consent comes forward rather than being held in the expectation that land prices will rise. Banking land rather than releasing it ensures house prices remain high. An imaginative change in policy is required if we are to address the shortage of homes to rent and buy at affordable prices. This will need councils to take a greater role in developing new homes. The closure of the Needham Market offices and move of staff to Endeavour House in Ipswich looks set to take place between May and September 2017. It has been confirmed that there will be just one staffed public access point in Mid Suffolk which will be in Stowmarket. I have asked that the chosen location be easily accessible for anyone not relying on a private car; it needs to be close to bus stops and have parking for blue badge holders. MSDC is planning for further cuts in funding from central government, but the council has failed to spend much of the expenditure budgeted for the current financial year. One of the budgets very badly underspent is for housing adaptations. Many of our tenants have not received the adaptations they need because assessment and implementation takes too long. I hope that in the new year we will be able to focus less on devolution and the move to Endeavour House and more on delivering services to our residents. At the November council meeting we debated the district council’s Asset & Investment Strategy. The council has agreed to borrow up to £25 million to invest mainly in commercial property in order to make a profit which is then used for delivering council services (so-called ‘profit for purpose’). The reasoning behind this is that central government is reducing the amount of grant they give councils over the next few years
and councils need to fill this ‘funding gap’ in order to keep providing the same services. Neighbouring Babergh District Council has also agreed to borrow up to £25million, giving a maximum total fund of £50million. (It should be noted that if the full £25million loan is taken, MSDC’s total borrowing will be in excess of £100million. This is in the context that Mid Suffolk’s own annual net budget is around £10million.) The councils are currently working to agree what structure will manage these investments – such as a joint board or some type of holding company. Green Party councillors have expressed a concern that this takes us away from what the council’s purpose is and that, if we have the money to invest, some should be invested in providing housing to rent and to purchase in the local area. I would like to see the council buying land that has planning permission and developing it to provide the homes our residents need. A second concern: does the council have the necessary expertise to manage a property portfolio? The council may need to involve more consultants with the potential result that decisions taken are quite removed from public accountability and transparency. Our group proposed that the majority of the funds available should be invested locally but the Conservatives, who outnumber the opposition groups, voted against. They are failing to take the opportunity to provide homes and jobs for our residents and income for MSDC because they believe that a greater income can be obtained elsewhere. Surely investing locally is a win-win and would show our faith in the local economy and help our residents. Will 2017 bring a new devolution offer for Suffolk? Mid Suffolk voted unanimously in favour of opening up discussions on a possible deal for just Suffolk or, perhaps, incorporating South Norfolk and Broadland, both of whom are in favour of devolution. I have asked that if discussions do take place, more emphasis should be given to community benefits, rather than solely financial and business benefits. These are important, but I was concerned that the previous deal did not include objectives around social care, health and wellbeing and protection of the environment. Keith Welham keithwelham48@aol.com / 01449 673185
CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S LIFE LINE In November we held a Ginormous Jumble Sale which lasted approximately three hours. With the majority of items selling for between 20 and 50 pence we managed to raise almost £900. What a fantastic result! There were stalls inside and out at Creeting St Mary Jubilee Village Hall with people queuing long before opening time to get in.
Financial circumstances are immaterial, age is not a barrier and single parents will be considered. Families may or may not still have their own children at home. Hosts are able to follow their own occupation and interests as the children meet Monday-Friday from 8.30am-4.30pm and helpers are on hand to collect or look after children at other times if needed.
It has to be said that although the sale was only for three hours there were many, many more hours spent in preparation, collecting and storing the donations and sorting them into categories.
We are also asking for donations of good quality secondhand clothing for the summer group for age range seven to 11 years. The children arrive with only the clothes they are wearing so both summer and winter clothes are appreciated.
A really big shout out to thank Angela Osborn and Heather Dickinson who worked so hard for months in advance to prepare for this event. A big thank you also to those helpers who came along on the day and donated their time to help process all the sales. We could not have done this without you all. We are now looking towards the summer group visit and would appeal to anyone interested in hosting to get in touch now as we have to start processing the invitation to the authorities in Belarus by January 2017. The children will be with us for four weeks from July 2-30. All that is needed is a minimum of a mattress to sleep on and a loving home with people who care.
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For further information about our program or to donate clothes for the children please email or call me and I will be happy to provide further details We are very aware that there are now more charitable causes than ever all needing support. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supports us; you may think you only do a little but without you we could not survive. May 2017 bring you everything you wish for. Link Chair Elizabeth Parker 01449 760343 / enquiries@ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk www.ccllmidsuffolk.org.uk
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OUT & ABOUT THE REGAL IN JANUARY Rogue One: A Star Wars Story; adventure starring Felicity Jones and Forest Whitaker The Rebellion makes a risky move to steal the plans to the Death Star, setting up the epic saga to follow. Moana; animated adventure voiced by Dwayne Johnson and Nicole Scherzinger Brand new from Disney Animation. A young woman uses her navigational talents to set sail for a fabled island. Joining her on the adventure is her hero, the legendary demi-god Maui. Sully; fact based thriller starring Tom Hanks and Aaron Eckhart Directed by Clint Eastwood, the story of Chesley Sullenberger, an American pilot who became a hero after landing his damaged plane on the Hudson River in order to save the flight’s passengers and crew. A Street Cat Named Bob; drama starring Luke Treadaway and Anthony Head Back by popular demand. Based on the international best selling book. The true feel good story of how James Bowen, a busker and recovering drug addict, had his life transformed when he met a stray ginger cat. Arrival; thriller starring Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner After aliens land on earth, a linguist is recruited by the military to assist in translating the communications.
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Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them; adventure starring Eddie Redmayne and Colin Farrell Back by popular demand. The adventures of writer Newt Scamander in New York’s secret community of witches and wizards seventy years before Harry Potter reads his books in school. A United Kingdom; drama starring Rosamund Pike, David Oyelowo and Jack Davenport Prince Seretse Khama of Botswana causes an international stir when he marries a white working class woman from London in the late 1940s. Allied; thriller starring Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard In 1942, an intelligence officer in North Africa encounters a female French Resistance fighter on a deadly mission behind enemy lines. When they reunite in London, their relationship is tested by the pressures of war. Snowden; thriller starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Melissa Leo The NSA’s illegal surveillance techniques are leaked to the public by one of the agency’s employees, Edward Snowden, in the form of thousands of classified documents distributed to the press. Passengers; adventure starring Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt A spacecraft traveling to a distant colony planet and transporting thousands of people has a malfunction in its sleep chambers. As a result, two passengers are awakened 90 years early. Collateral Beauty; drama starring Will Smith, Keira Knightly, Kate Winslet and Helen Mirren Retreating from life after a tragedy, a man questions the universe by writing to love, time and death. Receiving unexpected answers, he begins to see how these things interlock and how even loss can reveal moments of meaning and beauty. Birth of a Nation; historic drama, starring Nate Parker and Armie Hammer Nat Turner, a literate slave and preacher in the antebellum South, orchestrates an uprising. Silence; historic drama starring Liam Neeson and Andrew Garfield New from director Martin Scorsese, in the 17th century two Jesuit priests face violence and persecution when they travel to Japan to locate their mentor and propagate Christianity. Monster Trucks; adventure starring Jane Levy, Lucas Till and Rob Lowe Tripp is a high school senior with a serious passion for monster trucks and builds his own, using bits and pieces of scrapped cars. What he never expected was that he would find an actual monster in his truck!
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HOW A BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP COULD HELP YOU Wherever you are on your grieving journey, one of the East of England Co-op Funeral Services’ bereavement support groups could support you in coming to terms with your loss. Your local group offers a safe place to acknowledge your emotions with others who understand what you’re going through. Experienced Bereavement Support Counsellor Rebecca Louis runs regular support groups in towns and villages across Suffolk. You are invited to attend as many sessions as you would like, for as long as you feel you need to. The Stowmarket bereavement support group meets on the last Thursday of every month from 10am to 12pm at Café 52 on Crowe Street. Rebecca also works on a one-to-one basis, meeting people where they feel comfortable, whether that is in their own home or in a local café or quiet space.
We’re here for you, for as long as you need us If you’ve lost a loved one, our bereavement counsellors are here to help It’s the little things that count www.eastofengland.coop/bereavementsupport
As a local, independent business, the East of England Co-op only operate in the Eastern region and are owned directly by their members. Because they are the local Co-op, they work hard to support the community by helping local groups and initiatives as well as partnering with good causes and charities all year round. For a friendly, informal chat about your local bereavement support groups in Stowmarket or to find out details of all East of England Co-op bereavement support groups across Suffolk please contact Rebecca on 01473 231460 or email bereavementsupport@eastofengland.coop
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SCHOOLS HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL Happy New Year! We hope you all had a wonderful time at Christmas and New Year and are ready to start 2017 refreshed and rested. Towards the end of last term we had an Ofsted Inspection and we are pleased to announce that we were rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted. This is a fantastic achievement, with Bridget and the team working incredibly hard, and continuing to do so, to keep our standards of practice and care at such high levels. We attended the Henley Christmas Fayre on Saturday, December 3 and had a fantastic day. Thank you to everyone who came and supported us, either setting up, manning the stall or simply participating in our games. All funds raised will go towards improving and buying new resources for the children. We would like to welcome all new children and families who are joining us this term. We look forward to having you in setting, and making new friends with the wonderful children already with us. It’s that time of year again when we host our annual quiz and curry night. This year’s quiz and curry night will be on Friday, February 17, so pencil it in your diary. It really is a great night; friends, brain teasers and home-cooked scrumptious curries, what more could you want from a night out. Look out for further details and how to book tickets. We are a small rural pre-school situated in the light and airy Boughton Room within Henley Community Centre which is less than a 10 minute drive from Great Blakenham and Claydon. There is a large car park on site making drop off and collection of your child a safer and easier experience.
After a busy and fun packed first term we are proud to say that our hard work paid off when a surprise visit from Ofsted resulted in a much improved “Good” rating. We are lucky to have fantastic supportive parents and carers and would like to thank everyone involved for your ongoing support. We had many exciting activities in the lead up to Christmas. We had a cosy Christmas role play area set out with a fireplace, stockings, Christmas Tree, tinsel and flashing fairy lights. The pretend presents were hugely popular and the children enjoyed putting them in a giant hessian sack and dragging them around the hall. Lots of decorations were being made on our craft table (we got through quite a lot of glitter) and our children were eager to practice their songs for our Christmas sing-along on December 13. We have also started our ‘stay and play’ sessions on Monday mornings from 9.30-11am for parents and carers of under fives. Our session times are 9am-12.45pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Our opening hours are increasing in the New Year, details to be confirmed soon. If you are interested in your little one joining our pre-school please contact Steph on 07778 816223 or pop along to our ‘stay and play’ session. You are very welcome.
We have both grant-funded and paid sessions available for two to five year olds. Lunch club is also available (noon-1pm). You don’t need to live in the Henley School catchment area to come and play with us – we have children from Ipswich, Claydon, Great Blakenham, Needham Market and other surrounding areas. If you would like to come and join in the fun, please ring 01473 833848 during session time any weekday morning or afternoon before 3pm. Out of hours, or if you wish to leave us a message, please ring the pre-school mobile on 07979 468467 or visit: www.henleypreschool.co.uk Bridget and the team
JIGSAW PRE-SCHOOL (SPROUGHTON) AT NEEDHAM MARKET We hope you all had a lovely Christmas and we look forward to seeing you all in the New Year. If you are looking for childcare in 2017, please give us a call and we will do our best to help with the days and sessions that you require. Jigsaw is open from 9am-3pm during term time for children between the age of two and school age. You are very welcome to use your Golden Ticket with us or claim your three- and four-year-old funding. Please contact us at 01449 722717 / info@jigsawsproughton.org.uk or visit: www.jigsawsproughton.org.uk
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SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE SCORPION MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY The last colored belt exams of 2016 in kickboxing and universal karate saw close to 100 junior and senior students tested on their fitness, basic and advanced techniques, sparring, self defence and katas (patterns). At the end of each exam, new belts and certificates were handed out to all of those who were successful. A very big thank you to the grading panels and to those that came along to help during the exams. The week before the coloured belt exams, Master Hannah Povah ran a first aid training session for both junior and senior students. Hannah is a community First Responder and a 4th dan master in universal karate. The Scorpion Academy will be celebrating it’s 27th year in 2017 and the Universal Freestyle Karate Kickboxing Association (UFKKA), which was started in 2004 to run alongside the academy, is currently recognised by over 150 worldwide martial arts organisations. Consequently all grades issued by the Scorpion Academy are recognised the world over. The Scorpion Academy is pleased to offer all new students one month of free training. Tuition is available in kickboxing, muay thai, universal karate and mma. Separate junior and senior classes ensure that you receive the very best in training from very knowledgeable and skilled blackbelt instructors and masters. For further details please contact Mark JR Trent: 07708 644162 / scorpionacademy@live.co.uk www.scorpionacademy.co.uk www.ufkka.org.uk
STOWMARKERS JUNIOR NETBALL CLUB Stowmarkers Juniors would like to wish a very happy New Year to all our players, parents and local companies that have supported us over the past year, we are truly thankful. As we go into 2017 there have already been some changes within the club. Our Saturday morning junior session has moved venue from Stowupland Sports Centre to Needham Market Community Centre. As it is outdoors our players will need to wrap up warm these coming months. On the positive side, all our training sessions are now at the same venue, although I think we may be bringing copious amounts of hot chocolate with us to training. Remember the Saturday morning sessions for beginners are 9-10am and the Wednesday sessions for advanced/league players are from 7-8pm. For more details visit: www.netballclubstowmarkers.wordpress.com
BURY ST EDMUNDS AND STOWMARKET CATS PROTECTION This month we are looking for a home for Buddy, a very handsome boy who came to us when his owner died. We know little of his history other than that he lived in a multi-cat household. Unfortunately, Buddy has some issues which mean he needs a special home and an experienced owner. The problem is that, for whatever reason, he is very nervous and is wary of people. This makes him unpredictable and can give his fosterer a swipe. He has improved since he’s been with us, but is likely to regress in a new home initially. He needs an owner who is understanding and patient and who will give him time to adjust and recognise that he may never be a ‘lap cat’. Buddy is neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. If you would like to know more about Buddy or any of the cats in our care please ring Marina on 01449 674584. For more information visit our Facebook page or: www.cats.org.uk/bury-st-edmunds If your cat hasn’t been neutered and your circumstances mean that you need financial help towards the cost please call Margaret on 01284 851055 and leave a message. Your call will be returned as soon as possible. Our recent Christmas Fayre in Needham Market raised £1,223.52. Thank you so much for supporting this very popular event in many different ways. Our 2017 Spring Fayre is taking place in Great Barton Village Hall on May 20, 1-4pm. Admission is free, but donations of cat food will be appreciated. We look forward to seeing you there.
WILL MONTH IN SUPPORT OF SUFFOLK AGE UK Did you know that two thirds of the UK population do not have a will? Whatever your age, making your will is a vital part of planning for your family’s future and ensuring that when the time comes, your family are supported and comforted by the fact that your wishes are being carried out. Throughout February, Suffolk Age UK have partnered with 12 Suffolkbased solicitors, offering a will making service with the fee being donated to Suffolk Age UK. Each solicitor will have a fixed charge for their will making service, that is a lower price than their usual fee, and the full amount will be donated to the local charity, making a huge difference to supporting local older people with vital services. Solicitors taking part in this year scheme are from all across the county, and include Atkins Thomson, Blocks Legal, Christchurch Solicitors, Fosters, Goodwin Cowley, Gotelee, Gross & Co, Haywards, Jackamans, Michael Smith & Co, Norton Peskett and Watkins Stewart & Ross. The scheme will launch in January 2017 with appointments available to book throughout February. For full details about the scheme and how to take part call 01473 359911 or visit: www.ageuksuffolk.org If you would like to find out more about how you can support Suffolk Age UK, or about the services that the charity provides, call 01473 359911 or visit: www.ageuk.org/suffolk
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ON THE GRAPEVINE SUFFOLK YOUTH OFFENDING SERVICE RECEIVES NATIONAL AWARD Suffolk Youth Offending Service (SYOS) has been awarded an Evidence Based Practice Award for their Enhanced Triage programme at this year’s National Youth Justice Convention. The award ceremony, hosted on November 29 by the Youth Justice Board, recognises and promotes effective practice in working with young people. The award comes in recognition of the youth triage and diversion programme which was piloted in Suffolk in 2015. SYOS delivered the programme in partnership with Suffolk Constabulary to divert young offenders (aged between 10 and 18) away from the youth justice system, whilst also delivering interventions to address the underlying causes of their offending. The joint approach allows young people and their families to be visited at home within 48 hours of a referral being made, meaning that a decision and appropriate work with the family could begin very quickly after the initial police contact. The aims of Suffolk’s triage and diversion programme are: •
To reduce the number of first time entrants to the youth justice system
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To reduce re-offending rates
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Provide earlier and more effective engagement with victims and increased levels of victim satisfaction
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Avoid additional cost to the youth justice system
Young people diverted as part of the programme do not receive a formal outcome for the offence committed (for example a caution or court outcome), but instead voluntarily engage with a planned programme to address their offending. This work often includes support for parents and access to a variety of other services to ensure that the young person is receiving the available support, such as education or training and appropriate health services. In 2016 SYOS achieved the Restorative Service Quality Mark from the Restorative Justice Council, an independent assessment that the service delivers safe and effective restorative justice practice. Analysis of the pilot carried out by the Centre for Justice Innovation, evidenced that over six months, in the north of the county, there was a net benefit of 57k. Councillor Gordon Jones, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said: “I am thrilled that Suffolk Youth Offending Service has received this award in recognition of their stellar work with the youth triage and diversion programme. Working in partnership with Suffolk Constabulary has meant that SYOS and police officers have been able to make joint decisions about the best outcomes for the young people they work with. This has ultimately sped up the
Youth Offending Officer Vicki Grice
process, allowing young people to be referred and assessed much quicker than before. “Since 2013/14 Suffolk has seen an almost continuous reduction in the number of young people entering the youth justice system for the first time. We have seen a 28% reduction over the last year and Suffolk has consistently achieved a lower rate than the national average. We are confident that this figure will continue to drop, following the success of this partnership.” Sergeant Darren Oxbrow who leads the project at Suffolk Police, said: “I am delighted that the work of youth triage and diversion programme has been recognised by the Youth Justice Board. Our work with the Youth Offending Service has enabled us to provide outcomes that are more dynamic and effective when dealing with young people who are involved in low level crime. “Early intervention is often the key in stopping lives spiralling in the wrong direction. Understanding that children and young people can make mistakes but that this needn’t blight their future opportunities is central to this project. We are mindful that any interventions are proportionate and appropriate to the crime. “By giving young people the opportunity to choose again, to make better supported choices, future re-offending really can be prevented, enabling young people to continue to pursue their goals and aspirations. The programme offers better outcomes for the suspect, improves victim satisfaction and ultimately reduces reoffending. Something we should all be proud of.” More information about the work that SYOS do and details of who to contact if you have concerns about a young person’s behaviour or risk can be found at: www.suffolkyos.co.uk
GET UP AND GLOW FOR ST ELIZABETH HOSPICE St Elizabeth Hospice’s biggest event of the year, the Midnight Walk, is back for its 11th birthday event and if you sign up before the end of January you can save £5.
and we hope it will be as successful as 2016 which raised an incredible £220,000 for the hospice, making a huge difference to our patients and their families.
The hugely popular event, which saw a record-number of people taking part in May earlier this year, will return on May 20, 2017 and back by popular demand is the neon theme.
“The neon theme proved very popular. It was fantastic to watch Ipswich glow last year and we wanted to bring that back again to the town.”
However, this year’s Midnight Walk will have a few alterations, with a brand new start and finish location – the Cornhill in Ipswich town centre. There are also two brand new routes – a six mile and a 12 mile – both of which will pass the hospice on Foxhall Road so all walkers will have the opportunity to hang a personalised tag on the Tree of Remembrance. Catherine Sheppard, St Elizabeth Hospice’s events and challenges fundraiser, said: “We are very excited to launch the Midnight Walk 2017
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All participants will receive an exclusive Midnight Walk 2017 T-shirt, medal and a hot chocolate at the finish line. You can save £5 and register for just £10 with the early bird offer before January 31, 2017. From February 1 registration will be £15. Be part of Suffolk’s biggest celebration of life and sign up now at: www.midnightwalkipswich.co.uk To request a paper form contact: 01473 707043 / midnightwalk@stelizabethhospice.org.uk
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ON THE GRAPEVINE SAVE TIME AND MONEY WHEN BUYING YOUR HEATING OIL If you are one of over 46,000 households in Suffolk which is off the mains gas network, you could be saving money on your oil heating bill thanks to a local social enterprise.
JANUARY BRINGS THE SNOW – A CREATIVE GUIDE TO SURVIVING 2017
“…Freezing wet December, then Blooming January again!” From A Song of The Weather by Flanders & Swann
Community Action Suffolk (CAS) runs a community buying scheme which has purchased over 2.1 million litres of oil in the last year. In this time, households saved an average of £60, higher volume users such as community groups have saved £100 and rural businesses have saved £321. Despite recent record falls in oil prices, the scheme’s members have still made a collective saving of over £70,000 in the past year, as heating oil is purchased in bulk. Oil deliveries are then planned to provide an environmental benefit, with one oil tanker making a single trip to several members, rather than numerous single trips to the same area. Not only is the tanker’s fuel consumption is reduced, but so is the heavy traffic through rural villages. Natalie Lomas, resources officer at CAS, said: “Our members simply like the low prices that we get for them. Since the scheme started, our prices have been consistently lower than the average prices our members would have paid independently. “Members also appreciate the ease of the scheme, as they do not have the hassle of phoning around suppliers for quotes. We take orders from our members across Essex, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire and place bulk orders twice a month. We can also organise individual orders for members who miss a deadline, or find that they are running short.” Members are not required to place orders online in order to benefit from savings, as is often the way with similar schemes. This is one way in which the scheme prides itself with customer service. One regular customer recently commented: “Once again I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your colleagues for organising and providing this service, which continues to offer significant savings on heating oil purchases as well as proving to be very efficient in its operation and delivery, thank you.” As well as heating oil, the scheme also supplies members with Fuel Additive, Red Diesel, Gas Oil and LPG. Membership starts from just £20 per year and members have the option of placing orders via the website, by email, post or telephone. To become a member or for more information call 01473 345355 or visit: www.communitybuying.org.uk
Well, that’s it for another year. The turkey has been eaten, the tree is back in its box, the visitors have gone and the kids are back at school. January is settling in: cold, grey and gloomy. The summer holidays are an eternity away and long weeks of work stretch in front of you with seemingly no let-up in sight. Does this sound familiar? If so, then you’re not alone. The January blues are very common, so you’re definitely not the only one who feels like this. It’s time for you to take a little bit of time out… just for you. Did you know that taking up a creative activity can make a huge difference to your sense of wellbeing? More and more people are discovering this, and it goes some way to explaining the massive craft resurgence we’re seeing now. The cares of the outside world are forgotten for a while as you focus on whatever it is you are making; your mind can go quiet as your hands become active. For a while, you have a chance to be you. Not mum. Not wife. Not husband, father or son. Not employee or employer. You. Really you. “But I’m not creative,” I hear so many of you cry. I felt the same way. My school art lessons were pretty much all about drawing and painting, and nothing else. And I couldn’t draw. Still can’t if truth be told. I spent every minute of those classes feeling humiliated and embarrassed, and spent the next 20 years of my life thinking I had no creativity in me at all. I learned that creativity is about so much more than just drawing and painting, and I firmly believe that we are all creative at heart. It’s just about finding the right way to express what’s inside. My own particular passion is for making hand-stamped greetings cards. In this digital age, there is something so special about receiving ‘happy mail’ through the post, rather than just brown envelopes and junk. I love the fact that not only do I get to enjoy the creative process itself, but I put a smile on the face of the recipient. Sometimes that simple card can be the thing that makes that person’s day – they know someone is thinking of them and that feels good. Yes, January brings the snow, but it also brings the promise of a whole new, beautiful year to come. Why not let 2017 be the year that you decide to explore your creativity? You never know where it might lead… Becki Ritson Becki Ritson is an Independent Stampin’ Up! demonstrator and specialises in helping busy, stressed-out adults to unwind through cardmaking and papercrafting. You can contact her on 01473 622004 or 07799 011072, or via her website: www.sunshinestamping.com
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ON THE GRAPEVINE QUESTIONS ON CASH With Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb
Kate from Woodbridge writes: “I am a trustee to a life insurance policy taken out by my parents. The other trustee is the financial adviser who sold the policy to my parents. His company has recently gone into liquidation, he has disappeared and I understand that he is being sought by the police in regard to an investment fraud. I am obviously concerned about him being a trustee. Is there any way he can be removed and replaced?” The short answer is yes. Under section 36 of the Trustee Act 1925, as a trustee, you can replace other trustees in certain circumstances. These include: • If a trustee dies • If a trustee wishes to be discharged • If a trustee remains outside of the UK for more than 12 months • If a trustee refuses to act • If a trustee is unfit to act, i.e. if they are bankrupt It could clearly be argued in this case that the other trustee is ‘unfit to act’ and you should therefore write to the insurance company to explain the position and ask them to send you a deed of revocation and appointment of new trustees. If they do not have a pre-drafted form, a solicitor should be able to prepare the deed for you.
THE MACMILLAN MAMMOTH QUIZ The Macmillan Mammoth Quiz is back, now in its ninth year with a brand new, brain-teasing quiz for 2017. The Mammoth Quiz is Macmillan’s nationwide quiz. Simply put, it is the same quiz, being held on the same day, at the same time, throughout the country. The mammoth quiz even holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest simultaneous quiz. We need you to help make the 2017 Macmillan Quiz the biggest and best yet. Macmillan are looking for local groups and businesses across the UK to host a quiz on February 24 to raise vital funds for people affected by cancer. It’s a really fun and easy way to raise money for Macmillan, and you can hold your quiz anywhere from the local pub or bowling club to the office or school. It’s free to sign up to host a Mammoth Quiz. You will then be sent a welcome pack with your quiz and fundraising materials. All that is left for you to do is book a venue and sell tickets. There is also the Macmillan Mammoth Quiz website –www.macmillan.org.uk/mammoth – where you will find tips for organising your quiz, posters and tickets, a bit of information about Macmillan and even some sneaky samples. To register for your 2017 quiz pack, find out more about the Mammoth Quiz and start downloading sample questions and fundraising materials, please log on to www.macmillan.org.uk/mammoth or email: fundraising@macmillan.org.uk
Charles from Great Blakenham asks: “I recently applied for an insurance policy so that my family would have a lump sum if I died. I have received a letter from the insurance company telling me that following underwriting the premium has been increased from £29 per month to £48 per month on medical grounds. My bank, who arranged the policy for me, has refused to tell me why. How can I find out?” In reality Charles, your bank are not hiding anything from you. They simply cannot tell you why you have been rated as medical information is confidential and your bank are not told the reasons for the rating by the insurance company. The insurance company can only discuss this with you personally or with your doctor, with whom they would have corresponded to obtain medical information, with your consent of course. Give the insurance company a call to ask why you have been rated. If they will not discuss their decision over the phone, write to their chief underwriter. They must reply to your written request for information. You may also wish to speak to your doctor to find out what information was provided to the insurance company. Nick Plumb is an Independent Financial Adviser and Practice Principal at Plumb Financial Services. Post your questions to Nick at Plumb Financial Services, Baylham Business Centre, Lower Street, Baylham, Suffolk IP6 8JP, email nickplumb@aol.com or telephone Nick on 01473 830301. Nick’s opinions and views in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require advice should contact Nick to arrange a complimentary initial consultation to discuss their own position and requirements. Plumb Financial Services is regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
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On 24 Febuary 2017 take part in Macmillan’s nationwide quiz and help raise vital funds for people affected by cancer. Macmillan are looking for individuals, groups and businesses to host their nationwide quiz. Everything is provided for you including questions, answer sheets, invitations and posters For more information macmillan.org.uk/mammoth or email fundraising@macmillan.org.uk
Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). MAC16371_Event_2
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CHURCH CHRISTCHURCH, NEEDHAM MARKET (Methodist/United Reformed Church) High Street, Needham Market IP6 8AP Ministers The Rev Mary Playford (URC): 01449 711798 The Rev John Boardman (Methodist): 01787 372738 Sunday Morning Worship: 10.30am, Including crèche and Sunday Club Service of Holy Communion: Second Sunday WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES IN CHRISTCHURCH HALLS Tiddlers (for mums and toddlers 12 months to four years): Monday, 9.30-11am (term time). Contact Hannah: 07969 482360 Scrabble Club: Monday, 2-4pm. New players please contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Knit for Peace: First Wednesday, 2.30-4pm. Contact Sheila Norris: 01449 720871 Women’s Fellowship: Second Wednesday, 2.30-3.30pm. Contact Linda Hills: 01449 721258 Christians Together Ecumenical Group: Every Thursday, 10am. Contact Ann Devereux: 01449 721575 Coffee Morning: Second Saturday, 10am-noon, always with a selection of cakes for sale OTHER REGULAR BOOKINGS Weight Watchers: Monday, 7-9pm Moosical Fun for your Little One: Sing, dance and play for 0-5s Tuesday morning during term time. Contact: suzi@moo-music. co.uk / 07944 033723 Karate: Wednesday – juniors 6.30-7.30pm (term time) / adults 7.30-8.30pm Rainbow Guides: Thursday, 5.30-6.30pm (term time) Brownies: Thursday, 6.30-7.30pm (term time) HALL LETTINGS: There are spaces available for hire. To arrange a visit to view or for further information: 07851 742847 CHURCH CONTACT: Ann Devereux, 01449 721575 www.christchurchneedhammarket.co.uk
NEEDHAM MARKET EVANGELICAL CHURCH A THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH Perhaps January isn’t everyone’s favourite month, with its cold days and perhaps a depressing bank balance after a big spend at Christmas, but it does have its more optimistic side. After all, we’re into a new year, the days are beginning to lengthen and there are signs of early spring flowers to be seen. Some of us may have even booked our summer holidays, giving us something to look forward to. On the other hand, we may feel the future is full of uncertainty, anxiety and loneliness. Instead of hope, there are doubts and fears. Daily news broadcasts telling us about the plight of refugees from war-torn regions do nothing to brighten our horizon. We can feel very vulnerable in the face of trouble. The last place that most people in Britain look for comfort is the Bible, but in spite of that, it does say “The word of our God stands for ever” (Isaiah chapter 40, verse 8). In all the uncertainties of life, God’s word, like God himself, always remains certain, always true, always reliable. Those who build their lives upon this foundation will find that when the storms of life, and more particularly the storm of God’s final judgement, breaks upon them, they will not be shaken, but will be safe. What part does the Word of God have in your life? Peter Kinley REGULAR MEETINGS Sunday Services: 10.30am and 6.30pm Bible Study and Prayer Meeting: Tuesday at 7.30pm All very welcome For further information, if you require transport or would like a home visit, please contact Peter: 01394 271645 / phone or text 07570 558072 / peterkinley60@gmail.com www.needhamchurch.org.uk
SPECIAL CHRISTMAS HOME WORSHIP We had a special Christmas Home Worship on Monday December 1 with Christmas decorations up and mince pies and Christmas cake with our tea or coffee afterwards. The Rev Diane Williams from the parish church lead the worship, with Christmas readings and carols and a discussion of which part of the Christmas story we like the best: the Wise Men travelling following a star to worship and give gifts to the new born king, the angel bringing the message to Mary that a Saviour was to be born, later an angel telling Joseph in a dream that they should flee to Egypt to avoid King Herod’s wrath and jealousy, or maybe the humble shepherds on the hillside listening to the message from the heavenly host and making haste to see Him who was born to be King. What is your favourite? Our January Home Worship will be about the Wise Men, illustrated with a DVD, with suitable hymns and readings. We meet at 10am on Monday, January 2 at 137 High Street, Needham Market. All welcome – this is an outreach group. Wendy Marchant
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LOCAL SERVICES
MID-SUFFOLK FENCING
SPECIALISTS IN QUALITY TIMBER FENCING
SUPPLY • ERECT • REPAIR
TIMBER & STEEL GATES DECKING PATIOS WOODEN BRIDGES FREE ESTIMATES 31 Alexander Drive, Needham Market IP6 8XG
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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 Dry Foam Upholstery Cleaning
Dry Carpet Cleaning Professional Local Service For a FREE no obligation quotation
call John Burch: 07870 347486
Tel: 01449 721441
To advertise in this section, which appears in 17 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380
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HUGE RANGE IN STOCK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY LOWEST PRICES IN EAST ANGLIA GUARANTEED! BEDS Singles from £79, Doubles from £110 MATTRESSES Singles from £50, Doubles from £89 SILENT NIGHT MATTRESSES Singles from £99
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CHARRINGTONS FURNITURE WAREHOUSE
www.charringtonsfurniturewarehouse.co.uk charringtonsfurniturewarehouse@gmail.com 01449 675845 Open: Monday to Saturday, 9am - 5pm; Sunday, 10am - 4pm
Charringtons Yard, Stowmarket, IP14 1EQ (near the train station / the old coal yard)