in Touch News with Westerfield - January 2017

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Volume 7 • Issue No. 2 • 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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with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham

In Touch with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham is published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Editor: Sharon Jenkins Email: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk

01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: westerfield@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

ADVERTISING Email: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk

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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 Kesgrave & Rushmere is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.

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NEWS WITNESHAM AND SWILLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL The 2016 music festival was held at the village hall on November 26 with the audience enjoying a cabaret evening.

More than 90 people, our biggest attendance yet, came along to enjoy a light hearted evening of entertainment. The inspiring programme was devised by our musical directors, Christine and Paul Laughlin.

The evening opened with a Shakespeare monologue by Barbara Butler, followed by Village Voices singing Mamma Mia and Money, Money, Money. Teresa Booth on clarinet and Ann Baker on piano then performed Fantasiestucke by Robert Schumann and I Got Rhythm by George Gershwin. Next Anthony Darell-Brown treated us to a humorous monologue by Stanley Holloway called Albert and the Lion and Jane Blondel got everyone singing along to the Oom Pah Pah song from Oliver.

Our latest new discovery is Anna (10) on piano with Laura (12) performing The Snowman, followed by Paul, Laura, Rose and Christine playing a bluegrass piece called Dusty Miller. The highly acclaimed Silbury Hill completed the first half.

After the interval Margaret Brinkley recited a poem called Abou Ben Adam which told the story of a man who wanted to be remembered as one who who helped his fellow man. In their second set, Village Voices performed You’ve Got a Friend and Crazy Little Thing Called Love and Skye Miller on ukulele enchanted us with three beautiful songs. What a voice!

Teresa Booth on saxophone returned with Ann Baker on piano to beguile us with Bewitched by Richard Rogers and All Things You Are by Jerome Kern. Evie Martin, an incredibly talented singer, stunned us with two songs, Clown by Emile Sande and Ain’t No Sunshine When She’s Gone by Bill Withers. We then had A Pensioner’s Christmas, a light hearted poem recited by Jacqui Lucas.

Silbury Hill returned for their second set and had us all singing along to Strawberry Fair as well performing some of their own material. Rose Johnson on guitar performed Georgia On My Mind, yet another amazing voice we have discovered in our village, and Sue Sturgess and Daphne Rose has us all in stitches with Rossini’s Cat Duet. Village Voices finished the concert with Making Whoopee, I’ve Got You Under My Skin and New York, New York.

This was a concert to remember for all the right reasons – truly amazing performances by all the artists, a packed village hall and we raised over £525 for the Woolverstone Wish Macmillan Nurse’s appeal.

My thanks to Christine and Paul Laughlin for putting together the programme, to John Lightfoot for his expertise in providing the lighting, to the audience and those who donated prizes for the draw, especially Richard’s Fruit and Vegetables who have always given us valuable support.

Peter Elmy

SUFFOLK DEMENTIA HELPLINE CALL 01473 353350 We are here to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The helpline can provide a listening ear as well as information and signposting to services that can help. The Suffolk Dementia Helpline can help anyone who is looking for practical support and is able to provide you with local information and get you in touch with organisations that can help.

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NEWS SWILLAND AND WITNESHAM GROUPED PARISH COUNCIL Report from the meeting held on Wednesday, November 16 at Witnesham Village Hall.

There had been a recent SCDC Call for Sites which was aimed at land owners. The parish council waits for the results in early 2017.

County Councillor Report Councillor Vickery reported that the B1077 culverts had been completed and a footpath issue had been resolved opposite the Moon and Mushroom Inn. Councillor Vickery read a response from Councillor Finch (cabinet member for highways) to Dr Poulter MP about the 40mph speed limit request for Gibraltar Crossroads on the B1078. The request was not supported by highways. Mr Hindle asked Mr Vickery to arrange an on site meeting with Councillor Finch to review.

Highways Mr Everett reported the double bend sign in Swilland was due to be installed by January 29.

A concern had been raised about the state of Wash Lane, Witnesham by a regular user. Mr Everett informed Councillor Vickery that he had submitted a recent enquiry to SCC Highways for a quote to replace the 30mph signs through the villages but this had been quoted at anything between £10k and £18k depending on the extent of works.

The chairman confirmed that this was unacceptable and asked for an option to repair and cut back hedgerows to at least improve what was already in place. Councillor Vickery confirmed that he would allocate £2k from his highway budget to assist with this work.

Councillor Vickery also reported that he would allocate £2.2K to assist in some repairs to the play area surfacing which had been quoted at almost £5K. District Councillor Report Councillor Whiting informed the meeting that the proposed merger of SCDC and Waveney District Council was due for December 12.

Councillor Whiting was involved in the Homeland House enforcement case and was supporting this. He was also able to allocate £1.5k from his budget towards the play area resurfacing which the chairman thanked him for.

Footpaths Mr Hindle had nothing specific to report, although he had noticed an increase in dog fouling on Footpath 41 at the top of Mill Lane, Witnesham.

He suggested that council should remind residents about the ‘clean up after your dog’ requirement.

Mrs Shaw reported that the footpath sign opposite the Moon and Mushroom Inn was lying on the ground by the post. Mr Hindle would arrange repair.

Planning Mr Wilks reported on recent planning applications and their progress with SCDC, including the following: • Spinney Cottage: Permitted • Tree Tops (brick wall retrospective application) • Hillbrow Farm (change of use) • Fynn Valley Golf Club: Permitted • The Barn Strugglers Lane: Refused • Land on Mow Hill: Withdrawn • Land opposite Burwash: Refused • Manor Farm: Appeal dismissed

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SAVID (Safer Village Driving) Mr Madge reported that the redevelopment of SAVID was in progress.

There was currently a collation of what traffic measures each member village has in place.

Playing Field Management Committee Mr Rush reported that the last PFMC meeting had included an enquiry regarding the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) in relation to development in the villages from headmistress Mrs Hubbard-Whitehead to possibly assist with a replacement classroom project. Mr Wilks had subsequently made enquiries to SCDC and awaited their responses.

Some of the vegetation adjacent to the play area and playing field was encroaching onto the pavement by the school. Clerk would arrange for this to be addressed.

Play Area Inspections Mr Stanley reported that the small crack on the slide at the Recreation Ground had not deteriorated.

Mr Rush reported he had a recent quote for the gate and post issue at the play area by the school of £155 inc. VAT which had been ordered.

VHMC Mrs Shaw had nothing to report. It had been observed by Mr Hindle that re-rendering of the village hall wall adjacent to the car park had been completed and the hall had been redecorated.

There was then an update from Mr Rush and Dr Nicol on how the village hall was managed in relation to parish council responsibilities and the need for long term planning of any capital projects which might need parish council support so that funds could be budgeted for in advance.

Clerk confirmed that a spare allotment plot had been advertised.

Clerk would be sending out tenancy renewal letters soon after the finance committee had decided not to increase the rent for this year.

Community Group Mr Rush formally expressed his thanks to Steve Henley and all the participants in the recent excellent production of Cripps, Cripps and Cripps.

Mr Hindle reported that daffodil planting had been a success in October at Weyland Road and Coopers Close.

Mrs Pace had made a few enquiries about a defibrillator after the council received correspondence in this regard. Mrs Pace would report back further and this could be an agenda item for the January meeting, or perhaps the APM in April.

Clerk: Mr Steven Barron: swill-witpc@outlook.com / 07719 176917

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT 1st WESTERFIELD SCOUT GROUP

CHORAL RESOLUTION

1st Westerfield Scout Group wishes to thank all those parents and friends who helped in the collection, sorting and delivery of Christmas cards this year and those who used the service we offered.

Ipswich Hospital Community Choir provides a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can join together in the pure pleasure of singing.

Our ever-expanding repertoire includes pop songs throughout the decades and show songs, most of which are sung in four or six-part harmony under the direction of our musical director, Nick Coleman.

We collected approximately 500 more cards this year and are pleased that we’re able to offer this service to our local community. We involved our Beavers, Cubs and Scouts as much as possible in the sorting and delivering and they seemed to thoroughly enjoy the experience.

We also wish to thank the following sites that were kind enough to allow us to have collection boxes on their premises: Anglesea Heights Nursing Home, The Barley Mow, Bethesda Eventide Residential Home, Christchurch Veterinary Service, Fynn Valley Golf Club, Henley Community Centre, Ipswich Sports Club, Kersey Solicitors, Ipswich Hospital Outpatients, Ipswich Hospital Diagnostics Unit, Ipswich School Staff Room, Laurel Farm Garden Centre, MHA Norwood Care Home, St John’s CEVAP School, St Margaret’s School, Swiss Farm, The Greyhound on Henley Road, The Old Stores in Tuddenham, The Railway at Westerfield, The Swan at Westerfield, Thomas Wolsey School, Tuddenham Fountain, Witnesham School and Westerfield Business Centre.

FUNDRAISING CONCERT FOR TEENAGE CANCER TRUST Presented by Suffolk Singers on Saturday, January 21 at 7.30pm at Woodbridge Community Centre.

A varied programme of easy-listening music to suit all tastes, also featuring Claire’s young singers and The Jam Sandwiches Jazz Group.

Tickets £12.50 from WeGotTicklets.com or 01394 279907. Informal table seating to include a light supper of savoury and sweet refreshments.

Please bring your own drinks.

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IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Wednesday, January 25, 7 for 7.30pm: The Railways of Durango and Germany, an illustrated talk by Graham Austin We meet at the Salvation Army Citadel, 558 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich – entrance via rear car park. Visitors welcome – £3.50 at door including tea/coffee.

Details from: 01473 414746/422145 www.idhts.co.uk

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We are in no way a formal choral society, rather a very relaxed and fun group. We are affiliated with Ipswich Hospital and are regularly asked to perform at hospital events. We also perform at community fetes, fundraising events and enter local and national competitions. Last year these included Ipswich Music Day, Ipswich Has Got Talent and Choir of the Year. We also took part in a very successful joint charity concert with the Ipswich Hospital Band which raised over £700 for the hospital’s Sunrise Appeal. On the first Wednesday of every month you’ll find us singing around the hospital wards as part of the national Kissing it Better initiative founded by Jill Fraser which looks to improve the patient experience during their stay in hospital.

You don’t need to have the voice of an angel to sing with us. All you need is a basic ability to hear the music. Members pay £1 voluntary subs each week, 10% of which goes to charity. Rehearsals take place each Wednesday in the Courtyard Restaurant at the hospital from 6.15-8pm.

We regularly welcome new members, but are always looking for more across all voice ranges.

If you’ve been thinking about joining a choir but haven’t got round to it yet, resolve to now. For more information and contact details visit: www.ipshospchoir.org.uk

IPSWICH BRANCH, SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Thursday, January 26, 7.30pm: Family Stories, Family Heirlooms, Family Black Sheep As on similar evenings in the past, members are invited reveal their favourite stories on one or more of these themes. If you have a tale to tell contact Howard on 01473 274300 who will help to set up your talk.

We will also try to help anyone with research so come along with details of your ‘brick walls’ and let’s see what we can achieve together.

We meet at the Co-op Education Centre where the pedestrian entrance is at 11 Fore Street, Ipswich IP4 1JW, and the car park entrance is in Waterworks Street IP4 1JG. Admission is £2 for society members and £2.50 for non-members, who are warmly welcomed. You can join the society at the meeting if you wish. Tickets are not required, just turn up and pay on the door.

For more information contact Howard on 01473 274300 or visit: http://suffolkfhs.org.uk

IPSWICH PHILATELIC SOCIETY Members will display parts of their collections on January 18 and on February 1 we have a talk from Jeremy Gaskell entitled The British and Foreign Treaty Ports in China.

We have a trip to Stampex in London on February 15, an outing we arrange every year. There are often spare seats on the coach so if any collectors would like to join us then feel free to contact us on 01473 723863.

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OUT & ABOUT 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. We meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre at 7.15pm.

Our next meeting is on January 17 when we welcome back the ever popular Mark Mitchels. Mark has a wide range of talks and this time will be telling us the moving story of Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, an Aldeburgh girl who became a doctor, established a hospital and finally ended up as mayor of the town.

On February 21 Ben Cowell, formerly regional director of the East of England National Trust, will be talking about his first year as director general of the Historic Houses Association and the challenges that face historic houses in private ownership.

Visitors (even if not National Trust members) are welcome for an £3 entrance fee. National Trust members and volunteers can join us for £8 per year (£12 per couple at same address).

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

All the girls wore yellow, her favourite colour.

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WESTERFIELD CLUBS AND ORGANISATIONS Westerfield Bowls Club The club has more than 50 members who enjoy playing outdoors from April through to the end of September. Our teams compete in local leagues as well as playing friendly games against other clubs. For further information contact Tony Baker: 01473 411347 Village Coffee Mornings Coffee mornings are held in the village hall every Wednesday at 10am.

Everyone is welcome.

Westerfield & District Gardening Club The gardening club meets at Westerfield Village Hall on the first Wednesday of the month, starting at 7.15pm.

January: No meeting February 1: Plants for Difficult Spaces with Darren Brooks, Notcutts Everyone is welcome. For further details contact Barbara Bell (01473 231411), Michele Doick (01473 252330) or Barry Reeve (01473 251843).

Beavers, Cubs & Scouts The 1st Westerfield Scout Group was founded in 1955. Using the village hall as its headquarters the group consists of: Beaver Colony Thursday, 5.45-6.45pm Boys and girls, 6-8 years old Beaver Leader: Jenny Kent 01473 435711 / jennyk.kent@ntlworld.com Cub Pack Tuesday, 6.45-8pm Boys and girls, 8-10½ years.

Cub Leader: Joan Gibson 01473 785510 / joan_gibson785@yahoo.co.uk Scout Troop Friday, 6.50-9pm Boys and girls, 10½-14 years.

Scout Leader: Peter Runnacles 01473 785298 / peter@runnacles.plus.com If your child is interested in joining us please use the contact form on our website from where your enquiry will be forwarded to the appropriate leader: www.westerfieldscouts.org.uk Westerfield WI Lively meetings on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in the village hall with different speakers on a variety of topics. The membership is 42 at present.

January 12: Joanne Carrick, artistic director, Red Rose Theatre Company February 9: For the Love of Books by Isabel Clark New members and visitors are always welcome. For further details please contact Janet Phillimore: 01473 415749 Pilates Classes in the village hall on Mondays from 10.45-11.45am and noon1pm. Beginners welcome and equipment provided; £6.50 in advance/£8 drop-in. Please cotact: Kat 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com Chi Kung Westerfield Village Hall on Thursdays from 7.15-9pm, £12 per class, suitable for all ages. If you are interested please contact Sally Askew: 01394 384013 / sally_askew@hotmail.com Yoga Westerfield Village Hall on Thursdays from 9.40-11am. Eighty minutes of yoga stretches, breathing practices and relaxation. British Wheel of Yoga qualified teacher. £48 for block of six (£9.50 drop-in). Contact Caroline Glason: caroline@still-yoga.co.uk / 01473 464204 / 07746 860380 Please note that there is an online calendar to check availability of the village hall. For more information visit: www.westerfield-village.co.uk

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OUT & ABOUT ASHBOCKING, SWILLAND AND WITNESHAM WOMEN’S INSTITUTE Members and friends are looking forward to another exciting WI year with a variety of events taking place. Coming up in January is a talk by Mike McCarthy about the Active Ipswich Programme and in February we look forward to the Hidden Treasures of our Secret Sea told by Rob Spray, a deep sea diver.

A group of members and daughters gathered at Witnesham Village Hall on November 26 for a day making natural Christmas arrangements.

Everyone went home with a wreath for the door and a table decoration, thanks to demonstrations and personal instruction by Helen, a wellknown florist.

Guests and new members are welcome at our meetings on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm in Witnesham Village Hall. Come on, give WI a try.

DIARY DATES FOR WITNESHAM, SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING Events take place in Witnesham Village Hall unless indicated otherwise.

Booking Clerk: Mrs Anne Debenham, 785798 Parish Clerk: Mr Steve Barron has taken up this position from Mrs Bailey: swill-witpc@outlook.com / 07719 176917 WEEKLY EVENTS Monday •

Dance classes in term time from 3.30pm.

Contact Kelly Fear: 07799 130967

Tuesday • Post office open at Witnesham Baptist Church, 12.30-4pm • Drop-in Cafe at Witnesham Baptist Church, 2-4pm • Carpet Bowls Club from 7pm. Contact Peter Elmy: 785754 Thursday • Post office open at Witnesham Baptist Church, 9am-12.30pm • Carpet Bowls from 2pm • Tai Chi Classes, continuing class from 7.30pm. A new beginner’s class will start on February 2. Contact Marc for more details: 07860 471748 Friday • Mums and Toddlers meet in Witnesham Baptist Room, 9.1511.15am. All are welcome. Contact Jean Pearson: 785478 • Pilates Class, 10-11am. Contact Kat: 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com Sewing Classes: For information contact Kim Shaw: 785678 JANUARY Wednesday 4: Friendship Club meets from 2pm. All welcome for chiropody session with Jenny Cole, a registered chiropodist, but please book in advance with Heather (785464 / heather.cade@btinternet.com).

Also on offer are quizzes, plenty of conversation and refreshments.

Thursday 5: Village Voices resume their sessions in Witnesham Baptist Church Room at 7.30pm. Contact Christine Laughlin: 785138 Wednesday 12: WI meets at 7.30pm Monday 16: Ashbocking Parish Council at SWT HQ, 7.30pm Wednesday 18: Swilland and Witnesham Parish Council, 7.30pm Thursday 19: Village Voices, Witnesham Baptist Church Room, 7.30pm Thursday 26: Mobile Library in Witnesham at Weyland Road (9.5010.20am), at Swilland M&M (10.25-10.40am) and Sunset Cottage (10.45-10.55am)

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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 Ipswich bereavement support group meets every second and fourth Wednesday of the month from 1.30pm and 3.30pm at the Co-op Education Centre at Fore 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 Ipswich 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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OUT & ABOUT WESTERFIELD AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB Throughout 2016 our members have enjoyed presentations on a diverse range of topics ranging from how to get the best from their tomato plants, finding the right plant foods, the history of cottage gardens and the story of a plant hunter’s passion for plants becoming his job to talks by nursery owners on herbs, hostas and bonsai.

At the end of July we had an outing to Somerleyton Hall following by a talk from head gardener Anna Outlaw. We also visited Henstead Exotic Gardens, the subject of a talk at the end of 2015. In September we travelled to RHS Wisley Gardens for their flower show. Once again, members socialised at our annual BBQ on a lovely evening in July and took part in a Christmas quiz presided over by Matt Tanton-Brown.

Our 2017 programme is complete. The first meeting on February 1 is a presentation by Darren Brooks of Notcutts on the subject of Plants for Difficult Spaces. In March we have a return visit from Chris Bell from the BBC and Weatherquest on How to Forecast the Weather and in April yet another returning speaker, David Coop of Westland Horticulture, to tell us about the Unwins seed company.

Meetings take place in Westerfield Village Hall at 7.30pm on the first Wednesday of the month, February to June and September to December. In July we have our BBQ. There are no meetings in August or January. Ample free parking adjacent to the hall. Visitors made very welcome.

Contacts: Barbara Bell, 01473 231411; Michele Doick, 01473 252330; Barry Reeve 01473 251843

ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND The art exhibition and sale we held in November was very successful and we are grateful for the support we received.

On Monday, March 6, back by popular demand, we present another evening with Elizabeth Talbot MRICS.

SUFFOLK PHOENIX BRASS As another year of banding draws to a close, we consider what 2017 has in store for us.

The band has regular commitments year on year, but the environment we find ourselves in has changed considerably from just a few years back.

We are asked to play at fetes and parks, but sometimes the alarm bells go off when we mention a small fee and the band is no longer needed.

This happened a number of times during 2016. The band is a self-funding organisation and has to cover its costs. We have ongoing fixed expenses just to keep playing. Brass bands have in the order of 25 players and many thousands of pounds worth of instruments and equipment, so a small fee is not unreasonable.

We are always amused by the requirement to have public liability insurance. You never know – a member of the public may trip over an instrument case!

We are sure 2017 will be a challenge. We already have a number of dates in our diary and if you would like us to play for you, or would like to join us for a blow, please contact Bob on 01473 438821.

GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50S CLUB The Great Blakenham Over 50s Club is open to anyone of that age living not just in Great Blakenham, but anywhere in the surrounding area. We meet from 2-4pm on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the Parish Room, Stowmarket Road, Great Blakenham. The cost per meeting is £1.50 which includes whatever activity is programmed for the afternoon, refreshments and raffle. On afternoons when we may play a couple of games of bingo the tickets are £1 each. Members take it in turns to make the tea.

The Parish Room is the building with a green door more or less opposite the Chequers Public House and it has its own parking area behind the hall. It’s fully accessible for anyone in a wheelchair and has disabled facilities within.

In November we had a social afternoon led by Brenda and at our Getting Ready for Christmas meeting our contribution to the wreaths and angels festival at St Mary’s Church was finished.

Elizabeth is the auction room director of T W Gaze in Diss and has appeared on many television programmes such as Bargain Hunt and Flog It. Join us at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath at 7.30pm.

Paul Warne, one of our members, had also carved an angel to be included in the festival and held a competition to guess how long the project had taken, from conceiving the idea through choosing the wood and undertaking the carving. The answer was 25 hours though most members thought it would have taken considerably longer.

Further details from: 01473 625196 / www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk

ORWELL FLOWER CLUB We held our open meeting at Kesgrave Community Centre on Thursday, October 27. This was a complete success as it was a new venue for our club. Everybody who attended enjoyed the light and airy hall. The demonstration was excellent and enjoyed by all who attended.

The club meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew. Our demonstration starts at 7.15pm, but the doors open by 6.45pm to allow you to browse at our sales table and buy tickets for the displays created in the demonstration which are raffled at the close of the meeting.

Our next meeting is on January 26 when Sandra Adcock, a new demonstrator from Martlesham, will present Tales of the River Bank.

Annual subscriptions, due at the AGM in April, are £37. Visitors are always welcome at £4 per meeting.

For further details please contact the secretary, Delcie Corbett: 01473 623371 / gil.corbett@btinternet.com

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We were also pleased to welcome two new members to the club, Alison Milton and Cindy Newson.

At the time of writing, members were due to meet for Christmas Lunch at The Chequers on December 7 and for a social afternoon and tea party on December 14.

Our programme for the new year has not yet been finalised, but we will be meeting on January 11 and January 25 (weather permitting). New members are always welcome, but if you would like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you.

Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

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SCHOOLS WITNESHAM SCHOOL CELEBRATES SUCCESS ONCE AGAIN On October 11, 2016 an Ofsted inspector visited Witnesham Primary School. Following observations in all classrooms, interviews with the headteacher, pupils, parents and governors, the inspector concluded: “This school continues to be good.”

In reaching this judgement the inspector made the following statements: • • • • • • •

Pupils at the end of Key Stage 2 make good progress A growing proportion of pupils are exceeding expected progress in reading, writing and mathematics Pupils say that they like to come to this ‘amazing school’ The early years is a strength of the school A growing proportion of pupils are exceeding the progress expected of them All adults have high expectations of good behaviour and as a result, behaviour is a strength in the school Governors are experienced and astute

The headteacher, Mrs Hubbard-Whitehead, said: “I am pleased Ofsted has recognised that our school continues to be a good school and that the hard work and commitment of all staff and governors has been recognised. Our pupils are a delight to work with and we are supported by parents who really care about their child’s education. One parent stated that ‘Witnesham has nurtured our children to love school and to feel confident about themselves.’. What more can we say!”

START THE NEW YEAR AT BRIGHT STARS

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.

Would you like a fun start to your week? Mondays aren’t always people’s favourite day, but if you are a baby, toddler or pre-schooler who would like a cheerful start to your week we would love you to come along with your parents, grandparents and/or carers to join us at Bright Stars.

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.

We meet at 10.30am on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term time at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath.

Each session is full of fun children’s activities such as singing and Bible stories for children, crafts and games. The half hour sessions are free and are followed by refreshments and a chance to chat and play until approximately noon.

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.

Why not come and visit us? You are welcome to turn up on the day, but if you would like further information please contact us on the numbers below. We look forward to welcoming you. Our session dates for the spring term are January 9 and 23, February 27 and March 13 and 27.

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

For further information please contact Jennie Fidler (07584 420729), Sonya and Maureen Burrows (01473 625196) or Sue Lambert (01473 624130).

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Bridget and the team

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SCHOOLS THE OLD SCHOOL HOUSE NURSERY, HELMINGHAM The children have now packed away all the nativity costumes for another year. They had great fun with angels getting up spontaneously to dance to Twinkle Twinkle, a shepherd who took a lion to the stable and gifts wrapped in Spiderman paper for the kings.

Not a dry eye in the house!

Combined with this event, our committee ran a Christmas Fayre with mincemeat, cards and decorations all made by the children, together with a brilliant draw and refreshments for the parents.

We finished off the term by supporting Wear a Christmas Jumper Friday when all the children came in amazing variations from Robins and Elves to the most popular Peppa Pig Does Christmas. All the staff supported this excellent cause and it was even better as it coincided with our Nursery Christmas dinner with crackers and ice cream trees.

We are now excited to be back at nursery with all the excitement of playing with our much loved toys – in particular the castles and knights, dressing-up, Mega Blocks and Brio railway, supported by puzzles and an updated graphic area. Our new wooden train in the garden will invite the children to decide where they are going, what they are going to do and, of course, taking turns to be the driver.

Wrapping up warm to go outside helps the children to learn to do up their coats and put on hats and gloves. Wellingtons pulled on the right feet and their shoes stored safely in the cubby holes with their names on.

All such excellent skills for life. The smiles on the children’s face as they succeed are priceless.

CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL Once again it gives me enormous pleasure to share with you the events, activities and news in school, particularly as the month of December is always full of festivities and celebrations.

On Friday, December 9, students from across all year groups travelled to France, visiting the Christmas market in Lille. This was a great opportunity for students to explore and practise their language skills in surroundings that interest and engage them while providing an excuse for some early Christmas shopping. The city of Lille hosts one of the most famous Christmas markets, with more than 50 stalls selling traditional and regional crafts, cuisine and gifts, along with a variety of festive music, lights and entertainment.

Families, friends, governors, teachers and students were treated to a feast of music on the evening of December 13 at the school’s A Very Merry Christmas concert. The evening featured more than 20 separate performances, involving more than 70 students across all year groups.

There were string, brass, guitar, ukulele and woodwind ensembles as well as solo instrumental performances, choral pieces, rock band numbers and the inimitable staff choir. It was a magical evening and the dedication, commitment and hard work from students and staff was certainly evident. My thanks and congratulations go to all involved.

Students never cease to amaze me with their generosity, kindness and creativity and this is never more evident than when they design and create the most amazing Christmas hampers. Thirty large festive themed hampers (ranging from igloos to reindeer) were filled with food and essential items and then donated to a local charity called The Chapman Centre, part of IHAG (Ipswich Housing Action Group) who provide relief for people in the community suffering from extreme financial poverty or homelessness. I am always impressed with the special effort our students make and would like to thank parents and carers for their help and contributions from home.

On Wednesday, December 14, Year 11 students took part in a Learning about Work Day. Employers from local businesses were invited into school to act as business mentors and to work with small groups of students for the day, teaching them about employer expectations when applying for jobs. In preparation for the day, students were asked to find an apprenticeship and complete an application form and these were forwarded to the employers before the day. Having spent the morning taking part in ice-breaking activities, a workshop related to writing letters of application and a paired task, our guest business mentors then put students through nerve racking job interviews for the posts that they had already applied for. The day concluded with the distribution of certificates for the students who had been selected as successful candidates for the job from each group. Year 11 impressed our visitors with their maturity, participation and the way they conducted themselves throughout the day. Many employers commented that they would have no hesitation in considering some of our students for future employment and also noted how smartly dressed they were.

Ex-Year 11 students who left us in the summer returned to Claydon High School on the last week of term for a presentation evening where they were presented with their GCSE certificates and special subject achievement awards, recognising individual commitment and progress.

It was really lovely to spend the evening with them and to hear about how they are getting on in this next phase of their lives. I am extremely proud of all aspects of their success and achievement and wish them all the very best for whatever the future brings.

To book a visit, please contact: 01473 890950

If you would like to visit the school and see us in action, please come along to one of our open mornings. The next one is on Wednesday, January 18. To book a place please contact my PA, Mrs J Pedersen: 01473 836110

Happy New Year!

Headteacher Sarah Skinner

Share the fun and learning at the Nursery by visiting: www.theoldschoolhousenursery.com

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SPORT IPSWICH RAVENS VOLLEYBALL In November there was a record entry at the Suffolk six-a-side series held at Maidenhall Sports Centre, with seven teams in each of Division 1 and Division 2. Diss II and Suffolk University both entered teams for the first time in Division 2 as well as Ipswich Ravens Women, showing how this popular sport is growing in our region.

DIV 1 RESULTS Ipswich Ravens 21-17 Diss Ipswich Ravens 21-17 Stowmarket II Ipswich Ravens 21-13 Bury Stowmarket III 21-14 Ipswich Ravens In Division 2 we entered a team which would have been all women had it not been for a small injury to one of our ladies. We were delighted to be able to field a ladies team at this level for the first time, showing a good return on the efforts we have been putting into developing our women, many of whom were complete beginners only a year ago.

Although we lost all our games to finish sixth out of seven teams, we grew in confidence as the tournament went on.

DIV 2 RESULTS Ravens Women 11-21 Stingers Stow Aces 21-11 Ravens Women Suffolk Univ 21-17 Ravens Women Ravens Women 19-21 Diss II

In Division 1 the Ravens continued our improvement from last month with a solid performance. Three wins and one defeat left us in a creditable third place out of the seven teams. Captain Chris Giles said: “Our performance was much improved from last month. We really earned our three wins with some sublime hitting from chief hitter Ugis, backed up by good all round teamwork.”

BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Greetings guff lovers. In keeping with the time of year I thought I’d share my Christmas list with you.

I bought Donald Trump a candy floss machine to ensure he has a ready supply of hair for those public speaking engagements to come. Teresa May got an Oxford English Dictionary to discover once and for all whether Brexit really means Brexit. Boris Johnson got an innovative stab proof vest which activates and protects the back if Michael Gove is around.

Norwich City’s entire First Team squad get a dog each so that just once this season they can see if it’s possible for them to hold onto a lead.

Ipswich Town squad got a tour of Google headquarters with special emphasis on the rear entrances so they can discover what the back of the net looks like.

I got Nigel Farage a CD of his favourite song, I Never Can Say Goodbye by Gloria Gaynor and The Highways Agency got a special gift of a brand new correctly calibrated wind gauge which doesn’t trigger an Orwell Bridge closure the next time a passing sparrow suffers flatulence (after sitting

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Ipswich Ravens hold club practice sessions every Saturday from 2-4pm at St Alban’s School, Rushmere. We are actively seeking new members and will welcome anyone, male or female, experienced or complete beginner, and any age from 13 upwards. Qualified coaches run the sessions with a mixture of training drills and friendly games, making them very enjoyable while helping participants to improve their skills and fitness.

If you are interested in joining this growing sport, visit www.ipswichravens.org.uk or call/text 07508 351875. on the A14 for two-and-a-half hours I had to self censor that one to make it fit for public reading). HRH The Queen got a B&Q over 60’s club card (other retailers are available) as she may need some discounts on paint in the next couple of years.

Turning to the tennis club, I decided to stick with the CD theme. Nick and Graham got Stuck in the Middle With You by Stealers Wheel to reflect their league position, Adam and Matt got Amy Winehouse’s Our Day Will Come which will be very apt should they beat the old fellers above in the local, and the floodlit team got Baby It’s Cold Outside by Dean Martin in honour of their all-weather endeavours to come.

JOKE OF THE MONTH A man goes into a bakery which has a sign saying ‘2 rolls £1’ in the window. “Excuse me, how much is one roll?,” he asks.

“75p,” replies the baker, thinking he will have some fun. The customer says: “in that case I’ll take the other one!”

More guff next month, Mick Russ

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ON THE GRAPEVINE SUFFOLK HIGHWAYS – WELL PREPARED FOR THE COMING WINTER MONTHS

Suffolk Highways are well-prepared to keep the county’s roads clear of ice and snow over the coming winter months.

The county’s highways depots have once again been filled with more than 24,000 tonnes of salt. These stocks will remain topped up throughout the winter period to ensure we are prepared for any prolonged periods of severe weather. Suffolk has eight highway depots spread across strategic locations in the region, in Ipswich, Brome, Halesworth, Lowestoft, Melton, Rougham, Depden and Mildenhall.

Suffolk Highways have 38 gritters and three mini-gritters which treat more than 1,200 miles of Suffolk’s road network in under two and a half hours. During harsh conditions these gritters can be deployed to treat a further 850 miles of the network. Suffolk Highways also have around 100 approved winter service drivers supporting this service.

Highly skilled Highways staff continuously monitor conditions from six weather stations across the county and have access to a further five in neighbouring counties. This allows Suffolk highways to plan for winter weather and make the crucial decisions over when it is necessary to salt.

When ice or snow is forecast, salt is used to treat all A and B roads and roads which provide access to 24-hour fire stations, Accident and Emergency hospitals and main bus and rail stations. Details of the council’s gritting routes can be viewed at: www.suffolk.gov.uk/gritting Councillor James Finch, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “Our drivers have undertaken training so they are familiar with their routes and we have successfully completed our first gritting runs of the winter season. The new mini-gritters we have this year will allow us to treat some of the narrower urban roads in the county, where full size gritters sometimes have problems getting through when there are parked cars.

“Suffolk Highways are stocking 1,100 grit bins and 1,300 grit heaps across the county. Last year we treated the county’s A and B Roads 60 times and used just over 9,000 tonnes of salt. We are therefore confident that we have plenty of salt in our depots to ensure that we are ready for whatever the winter may bring.

“During the summer we carried out a proactive surface dressing treatment to 2.5million square metres of the highway network which has reinforced the road surface to stand up to the severe weather inflicted in winter months, and prevent potholes and cracks appearing.

“If you spot any issues on the roads during the winter months such as faulty streetlights, potholes, or grit bins which need re-filling, we urge you to report these to us. We rely on reports from the public to put us in the best possible position to be able to respond quickly and effectively to any highways issues. I would also urge drivers to make sure your vehicle is prepared for the frosty and icy conditions during the winter months, with particular attention to the condition and pressure of your tyres.

Drive with extra care and always allow more time for your journey.”

To report a highways issue or defect, such as a pothole or faulty streetlight visit: www.highwaysreporting.suffolk.gov.uk Follow us on Twitter @suff_highways for updates on salting and gritting across the county this winter, or keep up to date with all the latest information at: www.suffolk.gov.uk/gritting

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ON THE GRAPEVINE TRANSFORM YOUR KITCHEN WITHOUT MESS OR UNNECESSARY EXPENSE It’s Your Furniture, based near Woodbridge, specialises in transforming and restoring kitchens, bringing a fresh look to your home without the mess and expense of ripping out existing units.

Their service is tailor-made to your specifications and taste.

Not only can you change the appearance of tired or dated kitchen doors and drawer fronts with bespoke finishing options, such as French polishing or painting, you can bring your own personality into the space.

If you prefer to replace rather than refinish door fronts, It’s Your Furniture is able to offer handmade replacement solid wood or wrapped doors and drawer fronts. Or perhaps you’d like to add a made to measure island or install a pantry cupboard?

To finish your kitchen transformation, new handles and worktops can also be fitted, along with the installation of new sinks and taps.

Whatever you’re hoping to achieve, the team at It’s Your Furniture is skilled in all aspects of painting and polishing, delivering bespoke finishing services and made-to measure craftsmanship to make your kitchen look like new.

Give your kitchen a new lease of life. Call It’s Your Furniture on 01473 350466 to arrange a free, no obligation, home visit.

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.

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?”

BESPOKE REFURBISHMENT, RESTORATION AND PAINTING

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.

BEFORE

AFTER

Give your kitchen or furniture a new lease of life. Refurbishing can

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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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MID-SUFFOLK FENCING

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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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CHURCH NEWS CHURCH NEWS FROM SWILLAND AND ASHBOCKING What does the expression ‘touching base’ mean to you?

From the amount of communication devices that young and old alike use today, it’s quite obvious that touching base is important. We keep in touch in order to share thoughts, to express our feelings, to hear other points of view and nurture our growth to maturity.

Just consider how many of you use telephones, mobile phones and iPads to chat, voice-mail, Skype, Facetime, text or email. Keeping in touch with family and friends is clearly important. But, what about keeping in touch with your Maker, and by this I mean God? ‘Touching base’ to me means centre-ing myself, being at peace and at one with God. Prayer is the key, yet there are many ways of praying just as there are many modern forms of communication. We need to discover and practice the form that works best for us, remembering that communication is a two-way process: speaking and listening.

One such tried and tested form of prayer, particularly helping us to ‘listen’ to God and recognise His voice, is called Lectio Divina. The process may initially seem foreign, frustrating even, but certainly worth persevering when one recognises God’s voice speaking directly to you.

Choose a short passage of Scripture and read it slowly in a gentle manner.

Savour each portion of the reading, constantly listening for the ‘still, small voice’ of a word or phrase that somehow stands out in your mind.

slowly repeat it to yourself, allowing it to interact with your inner world of concern, memories and ideas. Do not be afraid of distractions.

Memories or thoughts are simply parts of yourself that, when they rise up during Lectio Divina, are asking to be given to God along with the rest of your inner self. Allow this inner pondering, this rumination, to invite you into dialogue with God. Now pray. Whether you use words, ideas or images (or all three) is not important. Interact with God as you would with one who you know loves and accepts you. Give to God what you have discovered during your experience of meditation. Give to God what you have found within your heart.

It’s not necessary to assess the quality of your Lectio Divina as if you were ‘performing’ or seeking some goal. Lectio Divina has no goal other than that of being in the presence of God by praying the Scriptures. Why not try touching base right now?

“And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:9-10.

The Rev Wendy Gourlay SERVICES THROUGHOUT JANUARY

Do not expect lightning or ecstasies. In Lectio Divina, God is teaching us to listen, to seek Him in silence. God does not reach out and grab us, but gently invites us ever more deeply into his presence.

Sunday, January 8: Epiphany Worship, Ashbocking, 11am

Now ponder. Take the word or phrase into yourself. Memorise it and

WHAT’S ON ACROSS THE CARLFORD BENEFICE

Sunday, January 15: Family Service, Swilland, 11.30am January 4: Hobbies Group, Clopton, 10am-noon January 9: Knit and Stitch, Burgh Schoolroom, 10.30am-12.30pm. Details from: 01473 735544 January 10: •

Burgh PCC in the schoolroom, 10am

•

Boulge PCC, 2pm

•

Grundisburgh and Hasketon PCC at Grundisburgh School, 7.30pm

January 12: Tiddlywinks group for toddlers and carers, Grundisburgh Upper Room, 2.30pm January 17: BBC Bible Book Club, Grundisburgh, 10.30am January 18: Going Deeper Homegroup, Manor Farm, The Green, Ashbocking, 10am January 19: •

COSA Pastoral Committee meets at Karin’s

•

Hasketon Community Lunch, 12.15pm

January 26: •

Tiddlywinks, 2.30pm

•

COSA PCCs meet at Clopton Village Hall, 7.30pm

January 28: In Harmony Singing Day at St Andrew’s, Melton, 1.30-5.30pm Otley Hall Retreat Day Programme 2017 Our programme of retreat days and workshops is now available to book, and includes some inspirational leaders and wonderfully thoughtful titles. We begin the programme on April 1 with a day led by The Rev Carl Melville and Emma Haggar titled A Taize Music Workshop.

To view the full list of leaders and dates please visit: www.otleyhall.co.uk Contact: events@otleyhall.co.uk / 01473 890264

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CHURCH NEWS

BBC / BIBLE BOOK CLUB

FANCY A COFFEE?

A small group – those of faith, agnostics and atheists – interested in the historical context of Christian literature. We meet in Grundisburgh on the third Tuesday of just four months each year and our next meeting is on January 17 at 10.30am.

Ashbocking: Friday 6 at the home of Adine Shrankel, 50 Church Lane, Ashbocking IP6 9LG, 10am-noon

We will be discussing The Nativity by Geza Vermes. Why not get a copy and start reading now? We would be very pleased to have you come along.

Please let us know if you would like to join us: paulwiffen222@btinternet.com / 01473 738474

Grundisburgh: Saturday 7 at Grundisburgh Parish Rooms, 10.30-11.45am Otley: Thursday 12 at the home of Karin Upson, 16 Spring Park, Otley, 10am Clopton: Wednesday 18 at the village hall, 10am-noon Swilland: There is no coffee morning this month. The next one will be Saturday, February 4 at 1 Church Lane, Swilland at 10am

WITNESHAM BAPTIST CHURCH We welcome you to worship at 11am each Sunday.

Sunday, January 1: Morning Service with The Rev John Riddell including Holy Communion Sunday, January 8: Pastor Andrew including a Baptismal Service where someone is declaring their faith in Jesus, followed by a bring and share lunch. Please join to witness if you can at 11am.

Sunday, January 15: Morning Service with the Team Ministry Sunday, January 22: Morning Service with The Rev Norman Tharby Sunday, January 29: United Service We welcome all families to our new ‘Family Time’ on Sundays at 9.30am every week.

EVENTS Every Tuesday: Drop-in Café, 2-4pm. Everyone is welcome to call in for tea and friendship.

Combine a visit to the post office with a cup of tea.

Varied Church Open House, 7.30pm Friday: Babies and Toddlers group, 9.15-11.15am. Contact Jean: 01473 785478 Monday, January 9: The Munch Bunch Lunch Club, noon-2pm. Light lunch and good company. Contact Karen: 01473 251787 Wednesday, January 11: Prayer Fellowship, 2pm Wednesday, January 25: Bible Study, 2pm Saturday, January 21: Crown Him with Many Crowns at Colchester Road Baptist Church, 7pm The church is open from 9am-5pm for prayer and listening every Tuesday and Wednesday. At other times please contact Pastor Andrew.

may seem little, I believe that if we believe in God then we have more than we think.

In the Bible there is much said about prayer – that activity of speaking to God. Through prayer we can tell God of our concerns, fears, hopes and aspirations for ourselves, family members, friends and country or world.

While confidence in government listening to my concerns might be low, I am totally confident that my prayers are heard by God and answered, not always as I would like or expect but none the less they are answered.

As Christians we are encouraged in scripture to pray for our leaders so that they may hear God’s word and act upon it appropriately. With this in mind I encourage all of you who do fear for what the year ahead might produce, to pray for the world leaders that they will understand God’s will and act in ways to help others in other countries as well as their/our own. We may be of different races, gender, countries and culture, but ultimately we are all God’s creation, thus we are brothers and sisters.

Isn’t there something basic within us that we want to care for our families? So let’s pray that those in leadership around the world will view each other as brothers and sisters and act in love when making decisions that affect all.

Pastor Andrew Can you offer your hand for international friendship?

Welcome an adult international student into your home and make the world a little friendlier. Adult international students can be lonely and would love to spend a few days with you, learning about British culture and telling you about their own country. Hosting is a voluntary position suitable for all ages throughout the year with HOST, a charity set up in 1987. To find out more please call 020 7739 6292 or visit: www.hostuk.org

The post office is open on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings in the conservatory.

Pastor: Andrew Croft, 07851 060482 Secretary: Anne Camp, 3 Acre Close, Witnesham / 01473 785448 www.witneshambaptist.org.uk As we go into this New Year I guess it will be very interesting to see how things pan out with a new president taking up residence in America and the expected triggering of Article 50 for us to leave the European Union. That’s without other countries having elections for presidents and governments. So potentially unsettled and worrying times ahead.

Yet all the worrying we may do at the beginning of the year will change nothing and only cause us to become ill. One hopes that if we make our voices heard to government they will be listened to and taken into consideration when decisions are made. I guess that many often question ‘how much influence do I have in these situations’? While it

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

21

In Touch with WTW Ten Years Ago...

I remember the intensity of the weeks leading up to Christmas in 2006. My wife and my daughter had been issued with a personal alarm device to keep with them at all times. Ipswich had become a bit of a ghost town at night.

From 8th December we knew there was a serial killer on the loose in our town. Tania had been found by police divers. Gemma had been found six days earlier. We did not know how far this was going to go.

Over the next few days the bodies of three more young women had been discovered: Anneli, Annette and Paula. Anneli and Annette were mothers. They died without dignity, thrown down for others to find.

The whole neighbourhood was gripped with fear which lasted until the perpetrator was arrested just before Christmas although was not found guilty until February 2008.

But even during this time there were women still going out onto the streets around Portman Road and London Road at night. Were they stupid? No, they had no option. They had been caught up in drugs and their addiction meant that that though they’d do anything to get the money they needed for the next fix, for them there was

The Churches of the United Benefice of Westerfield and Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham

training and therapeutic facility, known as ‘Hope Centre’. Talitha Koum has a Christian ethos, though its clients are not selected on faith lines.

really only one thing they could do, and that was to sell their bodies. They took a risk and for a few it turned out to be fatal.

I don’t know what it’s like to be addicted at that sort of level. I’m fortunate that I have not been the sort of a life situation where temptation teams with pressure and opportunity to toy and rely on the addictive life-numbing and dignity-robbing power of drugs. I don’t know why these five women went that way, but if we condemn them to their fate then we have treated them less justly than their murderer.

Building has taken a long time, and not been without difficulties, fears and heartaches. We hope to see lives transformed. The memory of the five women who lost their lives ten years ago is ever present with those work and volunteer with Talitha Koum. We want to establish this place as a legacy to Gemma, Tania, Anneli, Annette and Paula.

Ten Years Later...

Paul Laughlin

On 30th November 2016 a ribbon was cut to mark the official opening of a centre that has been built for the purpose of helping women to manage recovery and build life-skills to enable them to get back into the real world.

The Talitha Koum (Jesus’ words, meaning ‘Get up, little girl’) charity is building a residential

CHURCH SERVICES January-February Day / Date

This information was correct at the time of going to press (early last month) occasionally it can be necessary to make changes—please cross reference with our website for the most up-to-date information at www.wtandw.org.uk

St Martin’s Tuddenham St Martin

St Mary’s Witnesham

St Mary Magdalene Westerfield

Joint Service at Westerfield

Joint Service at Westerfield

11am Service for New Year’s Day

1st January Second Sunday of Christmas

8th January The Epiphany

15th January Second Sunday of Epiphany

9.30am Family Communion

10am Morning Worship

11am Family Communion

10am Family Communion

11am Morning Worship

8am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Worship

5th February Fourth Sunday before Lent

22

10am Family Communion

22nd January

29th January

8am Holy Communion

9.30am Family Service

Third Sunday of Epiphany

Fourth Sunday of Epiphany

page 1 of 2

11am Joint Service at Witnesham Baptist Church

9.30am Family Communion

11am Joint Service at Witnesham Baptist Church

10am All-Age Worship

11am Family Service

11am Joint Service at Witnesham Baptist Church

11am Family Communion

In Touch online:

In Touch with WTW

The Churches of the United Benefice of Westerfield and Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham

Church Diary—January 2017...

Who’s Who:

Mothers’ Union—don’t meet in January but resume on 2nd February when Suffolk Constabulary’s PC Squirrell (Police Dog Handler) will talk to us (contact Ann Bennett 785685)

MINISTRY TEAM:

Benefice Youth Group—meet on Wednesday 11th and 25th January, 6pm (contact Julia 785497) Village Voices—Rehearsals Thursdays 5th and 19th January, 7.30pm in the back room of Witnesham Baptist Church (contact Christine 785138) Kingdom Kids—meet Sunday 22nd January in Witnesham Village Hall and then church (contact Gill Thorley 890821) Wednesdays—said Morning Prayer at Westerfield Church weekly at 9.30am (Holy Communion on the first week of the month)

Dress a Girl Each year the members of Westerfield, Tuddenham and Witnesham Mothers Union take on a project. This year’s project was making dresses for the ‘Dress a Girl Around the World’ charity. The photograph below shows some members with a few of the dresses.

We managed to make 26 in all different sizes. All the dresses were in the same style and made from a pattern provided by the charity, but in very different patterned materials, making them look individual. Each dress had a pair of underpants in the pocket, and anyone who couldn't sew provided money for ‘undies’. We thoroughly enjoyed making them and are now looking forward to next year’s project, yet to be decided.

page 2 of 2

PARISH PRIEST: REV’D ALAN FORSDIKE t: 01473 252904 e: Alan@wtandw.org.uk ASSOCIATE PRIEST: Rev’d Catherine Forsdike t: 01473 252904 e: Catherine@wtandw.org.uk To enquire about Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals, telephone or email Alan & Catherine Forsdike.

READERS: Paul Laughlin

01473 785138 Paul@wtandw.org.uk

Carol Rivett

01473 717404 Carol@wtandw.org.uk

ELDER Julia Farmer

01473 785497 Julia@wtandw.org.uk

CHURCHWARDENS: Tuddenham 01473 785296

Jim Punton Jim@wtandw.org.uk

Tuddenham 01473 785272

Monica Pipe Monica@wtandw.org.uk

Westerfield 01473 230188

Judy Northfield Judy@wtandw.org.uk

Westerfield 01473 251207

Loelia Brow Loelia@wtandw.org.uk

Witnesham 01473 785673

Derek Austin Derek@wtandw.org.uk

KINGDOM KIDS—WITNESHAM Gill Thorley 01473 890821

Gill@wtandw.org.uk

BENEFICE YOUTH GROUP Julia Farmer

01473 785497 Julia@wtandw.org.uk

Let Us Entertain You

Village Voices joined forces with several other local musicians for a highly successful evening entertaining Witnesham residents and friends on Saturday 26th November.

Details of Mothers Union meetings are available from Ann Bennett branch leader 01473 785685.

We currently have 21 members and new members are always welcome.

More information about the charity can be found at www.dressagirlaroundtheworld.co.uk/

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

The event raised £520 for ‘Woolverstone Wish’ the charity which raises money to refurbish the Woolverstone Wing of Ipswich Hospital (the wing which treats cancer patients).

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