In Touch News with Kesgrave June 2019

In Touch

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with Kesgrave & Rushmere

Volume 9 • Issue No. 8 • JUNE 2019

Taken in Old Bunkenham by Ben Green, P16

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A WORD FROM THE EDITOR So football season has ended! I’m not exactly a fanatic, but since Jack started playing our weekends are planned around his fixtures (insofar as we ever have a plan). I have spent many, many, many cold and blustery mornings on the sidelines since last September and now it’s getting a little warmer, it all stops and cricket takes over! I propose a swap; winter cricket and summer football. Perhaps I’ll start a petition.

Camogie (women’s version of hurling) was always my game, but it’s interesting being the parent rather than the player. Mostly I just want Jack to be safe, but a win always makes for a better weekend. When we lose, the post-match analysis goes on and on and on... Every move, every injury, every tiny transgression is discussed adinfinitum and then re-enacted just to prove the point. I feign interest, but usually I’m more focused on defrosting my fingers and toes. All that aside I will miss my Saturday mornings with the mums and dads who turn up whatever the weather.

We’ve become quite good friends, as have the boys, and it’s fun to spend time with people who share a common interest, some more vocally than others!

I suppose that’s why I get so many submissions from groups and clubs eager to welcome visitors or participants, and I hope those of you looking to connect with others find what you need within these pages. For some the opportunity to enjoy a cup of tea and a chat may suffice, while others might want to find a new hobby or try a new activity. Getting fit might be your priority or you may want to expand your knowledge of a particular subject by attending talks and demonstrations. Finding people with a similar mind-set, who share your interest and welcome you with open arms is, and I mean this sincerely, life-changing. I’ve seen it happen with my mum. She started playing bridge about five years ago and has made so many new friends as a result. In the last two years she lost one of her best friends to cancer and another moved away to live near her family. Without her bridge ‘gang’ mum would be lost and just as they have supported her through difficult times, she has supported them.

If you’re feeling a bit isolated or lonely, I hope you find someone or something in the following pages which encourages you to reach out. And if you know someone who would enjoy or benefit from an opportunity to get out and about, perhaps you could be the one who makes it happen. As I could now that my Saturday mornings are mine again for a little while.

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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 FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS AND STRAWBERRY CREAM TEA All Saints Church, Kesgrave on Saturday 25 (10am-5pm), Sunday 26 (noon-5pm) and Monday 27 May (10am-5pm) Do you love flowers, strawberries, cream teas and our beautiful county of Suffolk? Then please join us over the late spring bank holiday weekend as we celebrate Our Suffolk with over 30 themed flower arrangements, a children’s ‘Bring & Display’ garden, strawberry cream teas and plenty of home-made cakes.

Entry is £2 for adults with children free.

For further information please phone Helen (07825 004585) or see our Facebook page: Our Suffolk Flower Festival

FAREWELL CONCERT FOR ORWELL SINGERS’ MUSICAL DIRECTOR Gloria Wilson, musical director of The Orwell Singers, will be retiring from conducting the choir this summer after 22 years.

During her time as musical director, the choir has performed in the Sainsbury’s Choir of the Year competition and at the Suffolk Festival. The choir has also appeared on the classical stage of Music in the Park in Ipswich and has carried out concerts for local organisations in aid of charity and been hired to sing at weddings. Some of the highlights of the past 22 years have been joint concerts with the Barry Male Voice Choir from Wales and West End Singers in Southampton. The choir has also travelled abroad to Germany, France, Belgium and The Netherlands to perform concerts.

Gloria’s farewell concert with The Orwell Singers will be on Saturday, June 1 at 7.30pm at St Michael and All Angel’s Church, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. The music will encompass the last 22 years of music making. Entrance of £8 can be paid at the door and will include refreshments.

The choir is seeking a new musical director and new members. If you are interested or would like more details please contact: 01473 635955 / d.sharman@btinternet.com

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DEMENTIA Together Call Free 08081 688 000 email: SRYC. DementiaTogether@nhs.net visit: www.dementia-together.com 3

NEWS RUSHMERE ST ANDREW PARISH COUNCIL

2019 NEW ANGLE PRIZE SHORTLIST ANNOUNCED Family, growing up and the impact of change in uniquely East Anglian communities are themes which permeate the six books on the shortlist for the 2019 New Angle Prize for Literature. The competition, organised by the Ipswich Institute, aims to celebrate and encourage excellence in the regional literature of East Anglia.

There is an open entry format with no separate categories and the Judges have selected six varied works from an entry of thirty-five entries from which the £2,000 winner and £500 runner-up will be chosen. The competition is kindly sponsored by Gotelee Solicitors and Scrutton Bland accountants.

The shortlist consists of three novels; All Among the Barley by Melissa Harrison, Devoured by Anna Mackmin and The Great Level by Stella Tillyard; a volume of poetry with Esther Morgan’s The Wound Register; and two non-fiction works, Low Country, Brexit on the Essex Coast by Tom Bolton and Self & I by Matthew De Abaitu.

The ultimate prize-winners will be announced at a presentation dinner to be held at Hintlesham Golf Club on Wednesday 3 July. This event, hosted by Leslie Dolphin from BBC Radio Suffolk, is an opportunity to meet the shortlisted authors and listen to the Judges’ review of all six books. Suffolk Libraries are running a Readers’ Choice competition in conjunction with the New Angle Prize and the winner will also be announced at this event. Tickets are £30, which includes a three-course meal with wine and full details are available from Ipswich Institute.

01473 253992 library@Ipswichinstitute.org.uk Twitter: @PrizeNewAngle www.ipswichinstitute.org.uk/new-angle

MARTLESHAM SURGERY

New Play Equipment Look out for the installtion of a new all-inclusive roundabout at Broke Hall Recreation Ground on Salehurst Road which was secured through funding from the Enabling Community Budgets of Councillor Mark Newton and former Councillor Deborah Dean of East Suffolk Council. This roundabout will allow wheelchair users to enjoy the play area alongside their friends and family.

Parish Councillors going Walkabout On 13 May parish councillors, the clerk and assistant clerk, James Baker from The Greenways Project and Peter Ross, the Countryside Manager at Suffolk Coastal Norse, spent the morning walking around the Sandlings and Mill Stream Local Nature Reserves to check on any work that needs doing or any improvements that could be made to these beautiful areas. We will let you know of any future plans.

Another local area of beauty and nature is Chestnut Pond in Rushmere Village. We are pleased to report that an information board funded by the Suffolk County Council Locality Grants of Councillors Robert Whiting and Paul West is nearing completion and will contain information on the history of the pond and local wildlife.

Vacancies for Parish Councillors Would you like to represent your community and shape the future of the parish? There are currently two vacancies for parish councillors in Rushmere St Andrew. The parish council makes decisions about services such as allotments, play areas and the lawn cemetery. The parish council also looks after the parish assets, plans events and comments on planning applications in the parish, as well as working with other service providers such as the district and county council.

If you can spend just a few hours a month (most meetings are in the evening) and feel you could make a difference to what goes on in our parish, please do get in touch.

For more information or to apply for this rewarding role, please contact the parish clerk, Mrs S Stannard: sylvia.stannard@rushmere-st-andrew.org.uk / 01473 711509 Rushmere St Andrew Parish Newsletter The next issue of the Rushmere St Andrew Parish Newsletter will be posted through your doors the week beginning 24 June. We have changed the newsletters to summer and winter issues instead of spring and autumn, just in case you were wondering where your issue was! It will also have a new name!

Practice & Patient Group (PPG) News

For details on what’s happening in the parish of Rushmere St Andrew please visit: www.rushmerestandrew.onesuffolk.net

We have been a bit quiet over the past couple of months because we’ve been busy welcoming five new members to our group – a big thank you to all our members, new and existing. We’ve also been working on an exciting new project.

KESGRAVE HELP CENTRE COFFEE MORNINGS

As a PPG, we were delighted to obtain funding to run a series of three falls prevention programmes over the next year, which could help up to 24 patients.

The surgery identified those who are at higher risk of falling as a result of muscle weakness, poor balance or other long-term health conditions. The PPG then hosted an information event on May 16 to explain more about what’s involved. If you were invited to attend but couldn’t come on that date, it’s not too late.

The first programme starts in September and there will be two more to follow. If would like to find out more, please get in touch with Lynne Marsh, the practice manager, at the surgery. Leave a note for her at the surgery or email: lynne.marsh@nhs.net If you are interested in joining the PPG or would like to know more about what we do, please leave your contact details with reception marked ‘FAO PPG’ or email: MartPPG@gmx.com

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We are very pleased that our coffee mornings are still proving popular. These are held in Kesgrave Community Centre every Thursday morning between 10am and noon. Our afternoon tea at Dobbies (was Wyevale) was extremely enjoyable. Thirty-four people attended and the service was excellent; no doubt we will return again sometime this year. We are looking forward to our next outing to The Hut in Felixstowe.

Our coffee mornings are open to all local residents, which includes some people from Rushmere St Andrew. If you would like to come along for a friendly chat and, of course, tea, coffee and biscuits you will be very welcome.

There is no membership fee to pay and you can come any time you want. We do have several men, but not as many as we would like owing to the fact that some have moved away or into homes. Every week we have a raffle, a fish and chip lunch each month, plus a monthly game of Hoy (similar to bingo). If you think you may like to come along please call in and have a chat with our volunteers.

Sue Snoulten

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NEWS / OUT & ABOUT KESGRAVE TOWN COUNCIL Kesgrave Neighbourhood Plan Public Consultation June - July 2019 The Kesgrave Neighbourhood Plan and supporting documents have been prepared by the community to establish a vision for the future of our town and set out how it will be realised through planning and controlling land use and development over the next 17 years. It has been in progress for almost two years with input from organisations, via public meetings, etc.

We are now in a position to put the draft plan to public consultation. Any comments will then be considered before the plan is submitted to East Suffolk Council which will take it forward to an independent inspector.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

The public consultation will begin in early June for a period of eight weeks.

The Neighbourhood Plan will be available on the town council website and in print at Kesgrave Town Council office.

Sunday, June 9: Cycle Sportive, Suffolk 100 Registration for the 100 mile route opens at 7.30am, at 8am for the 63 mile route and at 8.30am for the 45 mile route. To enter visit: www.sportiveuk.co.uk/suffolk-100-sportive-bike-event

As part of the consultation process, there will be an opportunity to ask questions at Kesgrave Fun Day on Saturday 8 June from 11am and at Kesgrave Markets in June and July. There will also be drop-in sessions at the Kesgrave Town Council; dates and times to be confirmed.

Saturday, June 15: Mum2mum Market 2-4pm, £2 admission on the door. Buy top quality pre-loved baby and children’s clothes, toys, books and equipment. For more information call Katharine: 07903 585334

Comments need to be sent in writing to Kesgrave Town Council either as a letter or email; comments can only be made by Kesgrave residents, businesses and community organisations based in or with a direct interest in Kesgrave.

Responses will therefore need to include your address which will not be used for any other purpose.

Friday, June 21: Free Monthly Social & Friendship Group Organised by Age UK Suffolk, the group for ages 65+ meets on the third Friday of every month from 2-4pm with entertainment and refreshments provided.

For further details please call Age UK Suffolk: 01473 298683

Storm Hannah fails to daunt Kesgrave Litter Pickers Now in its third year, it was heartening that there was less litter and that so many young people attended. The town council would like to thank all the volunteers, councillors and members of staff who supported this; we estimate the number of people taking part was at least 50.

Saturday, June 22: Teddy Bears Big Picnic Over The Rainbow Children’s Charity are organising a Teddy Bears Picnic celebrating Suffolk Day, 1-4pm for ages seven and under. Free picnic with face painting and much more. To book your place call: 07867 335916

Up and coming dates for your diary: Saturday 8 June: Kesgrave Fun Day Saturday 15 June: Kesgrave Market Monday 19 August: The Senior Citizens Outing Booking forms for this very popular day out will be available from the town council office from 17 June.

Friday, December 13 and Saturday, December 14: Christmas Party Nights We are now taking bookings for our Christmas Party Nights (over 18s only) on December 13 and 14. Tickets are £29 and include a glass of fizz or a soft drink on arrival, a fabulously festive buffet and a disco and photo booth. To register your interest or to reserve a table (6-10 per table) please email: jo@kwmcc.co.uk

Town Council Opening Hours: 9am-1pm Mon, Tues & Fri / 9am-3pm on Wed

For further information on KWMCC activities or events, or to book a function room, please contact the centre on 01473 612648 or: visit www.kwmcc.co.uk

01473 625179 / www.kesgravetowncouncil.org.uk

Kesgrave Community Centre Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave IP5 1JF

LOCAL MARKETS ARE SUPER Supermarkets are amazingly efficient at keeping their shelves stocked.

Their vast range of products is supplied by thousands of businesses from all over the world. Did you know, each individual item is identified with the supermarket’s own SKU, unique stock keeping unit number? These numbers enable managers to identify exactly which products and pack sizes bring in the most profit. The large supermarket chains have about 90,000 SKUs and an individual store can carry up to 2,500. Interestingly Aldi, classified as a “disrupter” in the industry, carries only about 2,000 SKUs overall and this means it can manage stock levels more efficiently.

What matters to you most of all when you buy food for your table? Many of us have little choice but to buy food based on value and convenience.

These days the packaging, food miles and sustainability come into the equation. Locally sourced items have extra appeal because they help the local economy. Did you know that local businesses return about 50 per cent of their income to the local economy but only about 14 per cent is put back by businesses with headquarters elsewhere?

Martlesham Heath Country Market is a tiny co-operative run by locals for locals. Our bakers and makers live nearby: we are your neighbourhood market. Contrasting with supermarkets, we offer a small range – but everything on our tables is hand-baked, home-grown or stitched or

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knitted or shaped or painted. You can meet the wood-turner, the ace cake maker, the artist and quilter. Choose jams and preserves made by an award-winner. Feel the smooth wooden bowls made from a neighbour’s tree. Delight in the local scenes and animals brought to life on our artist’s cards. Buy honey from local bees; they say it supports your immunity to pollens nearby.

Now you can save money and time by choosing from our new family menu selection at prices from £2.80 per person for two courses, £4 for three. Starters, mains and desserts for four people or more are available to order, just choose what you want for a big social get-together or for a regular family meal. Order it and collect it from our market, ready to heat and eat. You only buy what you need and you can bask in the pleasure of knowing that your meal is freshly made to the high standards of our artisan cooks.

Our popular Country Market is in the Martlesham Heath Pavilion IP5 3PL from 9-11.15am every Tuesday morning – cash and card payment, just half-a-mile from Aldi and Tesco and parking’s free.

It couldn’t be easier.

Want to join us? We still need more cooks and craftspeople. Call in or phone Margaret Gayfer: 01473 623849

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OUT & ABOUT MARTLESHAM DEMENTIA GROUP Brain injury charity Headway Suffolk runs a monthly social support group for people living with dementia in Martlesham. It takes place every fourth Thursday of the month at St Michael’s Church Centre, The Drift in Martlesham from 11.45am to 3.15pm. The person with dementia must be accompanied by a carer.

The group partake in a variety of stimulating and engaging games and activities. It costs £6.50 per person, which includes a fish and chip lunch and refreshments. The next group meeting is on Thursday 27 June.

Find out more at: www.headwaysuffolk.org.uk/dementiamartlesham Can you volunteer some time to help us?

The group relies on the goodwill of volunteers to help in the kitchen, with preparations and tidying away, as well as engaging clients in discussion and with various activities, such as indoor games, cognitive exercises and singing.

If you would like to make a referral or want to volunteer, please contact Maureen Howes: 01473 712225 / maureenhowes@headwaysuffolk.org.uk

KESGRAVE LIBRARY Sunday Crafts (10am-noon) in June Sunday 2: It’s nearly summer and time for the beach. Make a paper plate seahorse to decorate.

Sunday 9: Next Sunday is Father’s Day. Create a Papa Bear card for someone special.

Sunday 16: Create a peg aeroplane as a Father’s Day present.

Sunday 23: Design your own pipe cleaner finger puppet to take home.

Sunday 30: Create a jazzy lolly to celebrate it being officially summer!

Activities are free. Parents must stay with under eights. There’s no need to book – just turn up and have a go.

Free BookStart sessions – every Thursday including holidays.

Tot Rock: 9.45-10.15am / BabyBounce: 10.30-11am Free Storytime Sessions – every Friday 9.45-10.15am including holidays.

The session combines stories and rhymes. All welcome.

OTHER LIBRARY EVENTS FOR JUNE Lego Club: Every Tuesday afternoon (term time) 3.45-4.45pm. Parents must stay with under eights. The themes this month are Free Play, Space, Tractors and Suffolk Show. No need to book. Just pop along! This is a free activity.

PLAY QUIZGO Sunday, June 9, 7.30pm at Kesgrave Social Club on Edmonton Road Maximum six per team, £2.50 each Licenced bar, food available in the interval For further information contact Carol Negus: 07922 155181

THE ROGER DAVID BURROWS MUSIC FUND Back by popular demand, Amazing Archaeological Discoveries – Prehistoric, Roman and Saxon Archaeology along the East Anglia One Cable Route by archaeologist Andy Peachey Join us at St Michael’s Church Centre, The Drift, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL at 7.30pm on Monday 24 June. Admission by ticket only with light refreshments and a raffle. The venue is fully accessible with adjacent free parking. For tickets (£5) please send a stamped self-addressed envelope to The Burrows Family, 17 Squires Lane, Martlesham Heath IP5 3UG with cheques payable to ‘The Roger David Burrows Music Fund’.

Further information about the event and the music fund: 01473 625196 / www.rogerdavidburrows.co.uk

MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB COFFEE MORNING Saturday 15 June, 10am-noon 14 Gayfer Avenue, Kesgrave In aid of Suffolk Search and Rescue Coffee, Tea, Scones and Cakes Raffle, Tombola and Various Stalls

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Knit and Natter: Wednesdays 5 and 19 at 2.30pm. Just £1 with tea, coffee provided. Welcome to all new members.

Afternoon Book Group: Thursday 6 at 2.45pm. Currently reading Force of Nature by Jane Harper.

Evening Book Group: Thursday 20 at 7pm. Currently reading The Word is Murder by Anthony Horowitz.

If you are interested in joining any of the groups, please ring or speak to a member of staff NEW FOR JUNE 2019 Sofa Storytime: Monday 10, 10-11am IT Drop-In Sessions: Monday 17, 9.30am-noon Macmillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning: Monday 24 from 10am Summer Reading Challenge Volunteers Needed Are you interested in volunteering to help staff at Kesgrave Library run this year’s Summer Reading Challenge? The theme this year is Space Chase. The challenge runs all through the summer holidays for primary school aged children. If you are interested, please speak to a member of staff who will explain what the reading challenge entails and the process involved to become a volunteer.

Library Closure for Refurbishment The library will be closed on Monday, June 17 as we are having the children’s shelving refurbished. We will be open as normal from Tuesday 18. Sorry for any inconvenience Maggie Lusher, Kesgrave Library Manager, Kinsey House, Kays Close, Kesgrave Tel: 01473 626103 www.suffolklibraries.co.uk OPENING TIMES Monday: 9am-noon Tuesday: 9am-noon & 2.30-5pm Wednesday: 2.30-6pm Thursday: 2.30-8pm Friday: 9am-noon & n & 2.30-6pm Saturday: 10am-5pm / Sunday: 10am-3pm

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OUT & ABOUT OAK TREE LOW CARBON FARM

MARTLESHAM HISTORY SOCIETY

Oak Tree Low Carbon Farm in Rushmere St Andrew has always been ahead of the curve. It pioneers new ways of farming that benefit both people and the planet. It provides freshly harvested food to more than 50 local households using organic growing methods which support abundant wildlife at the farm.

Back in 2012 when it was set up, few people understood the need to be lowcarbon. Today, thankfully, we are more aware of climate change and the need to urgently reduce our greenhouse gas emissions.

Monday, June 10: Ipswich Friars by Elizabeth Serpell

Being part of the farm’s Community Supported Agriculture Scheme is one way to reduce your carbon emissions compared to buying supermarket food shipped from far flung places and grown using a cocktail of artificial chemicals. At Oak Tree you will be able to enjoy freshly harvested local food – and you will know where it is grown, how it is grown and you may even wish to help grow it yourself! It seems Oak Tree Low Carbon Farm may finally be coming of age as more people move to low-carbon living.

The good news is that the farm is expanding its membership so that more people can become part of its scheme. And this expansion has come about thanks to generous funding from District Councillor Stuart Lawson’s Enabling Budget. The farm has been able to invest in new equipment to expand and improve its food growing and is very grateful to Councillor Lawson for his support.

You can find out more about the farm’s Community Supported Agriculture Scheme at the farm’s open day on Saturday 22 June between 10am and 4pm. The farm will also welcome special guests Ipswich Wildlife Group on the day. Ipswich Wildlife Group is a charity which encourages people to help local wildlife. Martin and the team will bring bird boxes, bug boxes, hedgehog homes and much more. You will be able to make your own wildlife home or buy a ready-made one and IWG can provide advice about how to support wildlife in your garden or place of work.

Farm tours and refreshments will also be available and the event, of course, takes place as part of the Suffolk Day Big Weekender. More details can be found online or contact Sue Hall: hello@the-oak-tree.co.uk / 07954 289490 www.the-oak-tree.co.uk

MARTLESHAM HEATH AVIATION SOCIETY Friday, June 7, 7.30-10pm: From Fast Jet to Wobbly Head Presented by Sally Dearman Cumming In October 1984 parachutist and private pilot Sally Dearman Cummings flew herself into Royal Air Force Cranwell for Initial officer training. Following six years’ service as a fighter controller she transferred to the pilot branch, becoming the first woman through the RAF’s fast-jet flying training system, later retraining as a rotary (helicopter) Search and Rescue pilot.

Did you know that Ipswich was home to a number of communities of friars and other religious orders before the Reformation? Who were they, where did they live and what remains to be seen of their houses? Interested, then come along and find out.

Meetings are held in Martlesham Heath Pavilion and start at 7.30pm.

Admission is £2.50 and meetings are open to all.

ICUSTEPS SUPPORT GROUP For critical care patients on the road to recovery

We meet at Bluebird Lodge Community Hospital, 100 Mansbrook Boulevard, Ipswich IP3 9GJ from 6-8pm on: July 3, August 7, September 4, October 2, November 6 and December 4.

For more information email outreach.event@ipswichhospital.nhs.uk or visit: www.icusteps.org

MOZART’S MUSES AT ST ANDREW’S RUSHMERE Award-winning vocalist, international cabaret entertainer and local broadcaster Fiona Jessica Wilson will be bringing her one-woman show Mozart’s Muses to St Andrew’s Church, Rushmere St Andrew on 22 June for the final leg of its Suffolk tour. The acclaimed one-act drama, which explores the powerful 18th century women who inspired Mozart and features some of his most beautiful melodies, lasts approximately an hour and will start at 8pm, preceded by a complimentary glass of wine and nibbles from 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £12 and are available from Alan Loader on 01473 727274 or at the door. Do join us for what promises to be a most enjoyable evening!

PLAYFORD CHURCH FETE & OPEN GARDEN Saturday 15 June

We meet at Martlesham Heath Community Centre on Felixstowe Road. Entry is £3 for members and £4 for non-members.

01473 274300 / www.mhas.org.uk As part of events to celebrate Suffolk Day, a special free two-house guided walk of Martlesham Heath Airfield site, looking at what remains of this extensive airfield with associated stories and descriptions, will take place on Sunday, June 23 from 10.30am. Meet at the Control Tower Museum (free and easy parking) behind Parkers Place, off Eagle Way. Wear sensible shoes, well behaved dogs welcomed. The museum will be open when you return.

Martlesham Heath Control Tower Museum is now open every Sunday afternoon from 2-5pm.

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Supporting the St Elizabeth Hospice Garden Trail with Stonham Barn Owls making a rare road trip and a Blue Cross Dog Show (does your dog have the waggiest tail?). Dogs must be on leads.

Gardens open from 11am-7pm, fete from 2-5pm with all the usual stalls, tea and cake, music and a cake and biscuit decorating competition (details on website). £5 entry, under-18s free.

For more Information and to purchase tickets go to: www.playfordhall.com

In Touch online:

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OUT & ABOUT ORWELL DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS SOCIETY Our talks throughout the year cover a broad spectrum of art and are delivered within a relaxed and welcoming environment.

June 1 will be our last talk before the summer break and is titled The Age of Jazz. We are looking forward to meeting the guest speaker, Sandy Burnett, a musician and broadcaster whose varied career embraces broadcasting, conducting, playing double bass and communicating his passion for music.

For over a decade Sandy was one of the core team of presenters on BBC Radio 3. This included hosting the breakfast show and live broadcasts from the Proms and Edinburgh Festival. He recently won silver in the Specialist Music Category of the PPI Radio awards.

Our talks will resume September 4 when Anne Haworth will present a talk entitled Porcelain for the Chinese Emperors. The talk will be preceded by our Annual General Meeting We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. The meeting begins at 2.05pm and lasts about an hour with tea and coffee are available from 1.30pm.

For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

BROKE HALL WI Friday, June 14: Active Lives with Julie Stokes Friday, July 12: Silver and Gem Stones with Marianne Brame Friday, September 13: Hats and the Art of Flower Making by Magdelaine Snowden We meet at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm) on the second Friday of the month at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich IP3 8TH. For more information contact Sue (01473 414746) or Cynthia (01473 726068).

KESGRAVE CO-OP WOMEN’S’ GUILD On Tuesday, April 16 we had great fun playing Bag Beetle as our speaker was unable to come until later in the year. The speaker for April 30 also cancelled, but Colin Hopper stepped in with a wonderful talk on Old London Bridge. His drawings illustrating the bridge were superb and the history was fascinating.

We have three events for your diaries this year. On Tuesday, July 16 there will be a fish and chip lunch at the Felixstowe Hut. Tuesday, August 20 is a mystery tour followed by afternoon tea and on Friday, September 13 we have a coach trip to the Cambridge American Cemetery, followed by a visit to a large garden centre and shopping area nearby.

NEXT MEETINGS Tuesday, May 28: Sarah Waterson from The Hunnaball Family Funeral Group will be giving a light-hearted presentation on the changing face of funerals.

Tuesday, June 11: Karen Kenny, one of our regular speakers, will give a gardening talk entitled Water, Water. Very appropriate after the hot summer of 2018!

Tuesday, June 25: We are holding a fun quiz evening and hope our friends from the Felixstowe Guild will join us.

Tuesday, July 9: David Murton will take us for a fascinating insight into the mysteries of our universe. We will explore the stars, the planets and much more.

Tuesday, July 23: Our birthday tea and celebration before we break for the summer, with live entertainment by local singer Paul Fosker.

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OUT & ABOUT SPRINGFIELD FOLLIES After another successful panto at Kesgrave Community Centre, Springfield Follies are having a change of venue for their summer show.

U3A IS OPEN TO ALL The title may be a bit misleading. U3A, or University of the Third Age, is in no way a university! It’s a members’ run group of older individuals who want to get as much as possible out of life. There’s no entry qualification and no barriers. All that U3A asks is that you come along with an open mind, be prepared to join in and contribute to one or more of the many activities on offer. And the range of activities is huge, with everything from walking to knitting, astronomy to Spanish, scrabble to Shakespeare.

The speaker programme includes talks on different topics at various venues.

Upcoming ones are listed below.

The U3A Open Day on Friday 6 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Kesgrave Community Centre gives members and potential members notice to see what is on offer for the coming year.

Friday 24 May, 10.30am at Woodbridge Community Hall The Boy who Burned the Barn by Jonathan Belsey An account of a crime in 1844 that resulted in transportation

Thank You For the Music, inspired by the music of ABBA and the Mamma Mia films, will be performed at Castle Hill Church, Dryden Road, Ipswich IP1 6QF on Saturday 15 June at 7.30pm and on Saturday 22 June at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

The show features singing, dancing, gymnastics, comedy, magic and much more and is suitable for all ages. All tickets are £5 and available from: 07780 344247, www.springfieldfollies.org, 2nd Stop Charity Shop on Ropes Drive and on the door. This year we are raising money for Tiffers, The Bus Shelter, Ipswich.

In memory of former Springfield Follies member Nik Moore who was tragically killed in the Soho nail bombing 20 years ago on his way to see Mamma Mia.

PORTAL WOODLANDS CONSERVATION GROUP At our AGM on 9 April, all our existing committee members were re-elected and George Pennick was crowned this year’s winner of the Nature Explorers Award in recognition of his contribution to conservation in the parish of Martlesham. Well done to George!

The meeting was rounded off with a fascinating talk by Duncan Sweeting on badgers in the Suffolk area.

Monday 10 June, 2pm at Kesgrave Community Centre IP5 1JF Annual General Meeting U3A promises a warm welcome to existing and potential members.

Membership details are available online or call the membership secretary on 0300 123 3913. www.a3aeastsuffolk.org.uk

MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB We have two meetings planned for June before our summer break.

On 6 June Elaine Whitmore will give a talk entitled The Mary Rose – Past, Present and Future and on 20 June we will hold our AGM followed by light refreshments.

Our coffee morning will raise money for Suffolk Search and Rescue who use specially trained dogs to help find missing persons. It will be held on Saturday 15 June at 14 Gayfer Avenue, Kesgrave from 10am-noon. There will be coffee or tea, scones and cakes plus a raffle, tombola, various stalls and competitions. Do come along to help raise money for this very worthwhile local charity.

Later in April, our volunteers cleared brambles, saplings and other young shoots from the southern tumulus (Bronze Age Burial Mound) before the new spring growth had become too vigorous. They also reinforced the dead hedging around the tumulus which had been broken down by walkers who fail to respect the importance of conserving this ancient monument which has the same protected status as Stonehenge.

Wildlife continues to abound in the woods, with a notable show of bluebells this year, as well as seasonal butterflies, such as the orangetip, and an uncommon sighting of a pair of treecreepers.

DATES FOR THE DIARY

IPSWICH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB

Volunteer Work Morning (all ages) Sunday 16 June, 10am-noon Meet at the Education Area Tools, training and light refreshments provided All welcome; no need to book

Join us on the last Wednesday every month (excluding July & August) for a three-course lunch followed by an interesting speaker and a prize raffle. On the second Wednesday we meet for coffee and a chat.

Nature Explorers (ages 11-18) Saturday 20 July, 9-11am Please book a place via our email below

In July and August, and at Christmas, our wives, partners and friends are invited to join us. They also accompany us to theatres, shows, musicals and trips to places of interest in East Anglia and beyond.

Annual Glow Worm Survey and Bat Walk Friday 28 June. All welcome, no need to book. Meet at the Control Tower at 9.15pm, finish around 10.30pm. Bring warm clothes and a torch. Subject to weather.

For more information contact Doreen Boar: 01473 622768

Why not come and meet other gentlemen, all retired or semi-retired and from a wide range of careers, interests and backgrounds?

Our objective is to provide fellowship for members and their families.

Prospective new members are always welcome and there is no requirement to have belonged to any other organisation previously.

If you wish to join us, as a guest initially, or require further details, please contact our secretary, Malcolm Kemp: 07711 689130 / secretary.ipswichprobus@gmail.com

www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

New volunteers of all ages and abilities are always welcome. No experience needed. For further information, please contact us at pwcg.martlesham@gmail.com / 01473 612632 or visit our website or join our members’ Facebook Group by messaging Duncan Sweeting.

Chairman Stephen Corley www.pwcg.onesuffolk.net

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OUT & ABOUT PLAYING BRIDGE AT A BRIDGE CLUB Have you always wanted to play bridge at a bridge club, but have always managed to find a way of talking yourself out of it? Or have you played at a bridge club and stopped going because you found it a bit intimidating?

It has become clear to us at Ipswich and Kesgrave Bridge Club that we need to offer a way for people to make the transition from completing a bridge course and/or from playing regular social bridge to playing in a club environment. We know from talking to the students who attend our courses that most want to join a club but are wary of doing so – worried that they will not be good enough.

If you think this is you, we are creating an opportunity to play on Thursday nights with people who also feel they are in this category. This will start in July. If you want to join us, check on our website as we get closer to July for further details or contact me at: greencj06@hotmail.co.uk www.bridgewebs.com/ipswich

KESGRAVE CANASTA CLUB Meets at the Royal British Legion Hall on Ropes Drive at 7.30pm and welcomes new players.

This month we meet on Wednesday, June 19 and then July 17.

For more information contact Barbara Rose: 01473 622017

SUFFOLK HERITAGE AVIATION GROUP Foxhall Road, Kesgrave, Ipswich Open from 11am-4pm every Sunday and bank holiday until October. Come along and see our exhibition of the history of Suffolk aviation. Full size replica of Edith Cook’s Bleriot, and many other interesting exhibits. Tearoom and picnic area, free admission and parking.

For further information contact Colin Durrant: colindurrant113@yahoo.com / 01473 677517

FREE FLOWER ARRANGING TASTER DAY

On Saturday 14 September, Ipswich Flower Club will be holding a free workshop with Adele Kent as the tutor at St Augustine’s Church Hall from 10am to 3pm. You will make two flower arrangements during the day with a break for a packed lunch. If you would like more details or to book a place, please phone Stella on 01473 711946.

We would also like to invite you to our next meeting on June 10 when Brenda Eyers will present a demonstration called Bursting Out All Over.

The meeting starts at 2pm at St Augustine’s Church Hall on Bucklesham Road. There is a visitor’s fee of £5. You will be warmly welcomed if you just turn up, or for more information please contact Janet on 01473 415749. The demonstrator on 8 July will be Shirley Perkins whose presentation is entitled Nice To See You. Ipswich Flower Club meets on the second Monday afternoon of the month. We also have six Friday afternoon workshops during the year which are suitable for all standards. The workshop on 28 June will be a tapestry/pave arrangement and will be tutored by Janet Phillimore.

If you are interested in the workshop which will cost £5, please phone Stella on 01473 711946 for more details and to book a place.

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OUT & ABOUT MARTLESHAM BRASS Making music fun in East Anglia You can catch the intermediate band at Kirton PCC Church Fete on Saturday 8 June from 12.45pm, and the main band at St Elizabeth Hospice Suffolk Remembers event on Felixstowe Seafront on Friday 21 June from 8.30pm.

We would love to hear from new players, young and old, with or without experience. Our aim is to encourage anyone who feels they would like to play in a brass band to have a go! If you would like to join us, or if you already play or have previously played a brass instrument and would like to come along and meet us, please email join@martleshambrass.co.uk or use the contact details below.

Publicity Officer Liz Howard: e_m_howard@talk21.com / 01473 625617. www.martleshambrass.co.uk

I always think of June as strawberry season and the first month of summer.

Let’s hope the weather thinks so too! The generally warmer weather and longer sunny days mean that watering is a regular demand on your time from now on. I find if I hoe or ‘tickle’ the ground with a fork before watering it helps the water to get into the ground. Watering later in the evening also means there’s less chance of the water evaporating.

ALL SAINTS SUTTON FLOWER FESTIVAL

Gloria, my tortoise, is back to roaming the garden for the summer and can be quite useful when it comes to eating up any spare salad and veg like thinned out seedlings or over ripe tomatoes.

This is the year for All Saints Church in Sutton to hold their biennial flower festival. The festival will be held over two days, Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 June. The church will be open for viewing from 10am to 6pm on both days and the festival will end with a Flower Festival Songs of Praise on the Sunday evening at 6.30pm.

There should be plenty of harvesting going on now including: peas, broad beans, lettuce, raddish, beetroot, spring onions, cabbage, rhubarb and strawberries. But Asparagus should be finishing by the end of the month.

Add some fertiliser around them to help with next year’s crop.

The theme of the festival this year will be Let’s Celebrate.

This theme gives the flower arrangers terrific scope for their arrangements. There will be 14 arrangements; some will be based on annual events, such as anniversaries, while others will interpret special places or events.

Light refreshments will be served both days. Do come along and visit All Saints Church at Sutton IP12 3DT.

ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCING Join us ar St John’s URC Hall, Cowper Street, Ipswich on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 8pm. For more information contact: Helen at howefamily96@yahoo.co.uk / 01473 717979 John at johnaadams1942@gmail.com / 01473 710406

IPSWICH RSPB LOCAL GROUP Ipswich RSPB Local Group has a full programme of walks over the summer. These are free and include: Upper Hollesley Common for nightjars, Rushmere Common and Foxhall, Landguard Nature Reserve, The Grove, Felixstowe, Wrabness and Christchurch Park. Walks are expertly led and there is always someone willing to help those less experienced with bird identification. Details of all walks including date, time, meeting place (we always use map references for these to avoid confusion) and suitable clothing can be found by contacting us in any of the ways set out below.

It’s also the time to plant out veg that you may have grown from seed or bought as seedlings: beans, leeks, pumpkins, sweetcorn, sprouts, courgettes, cauliflowers, celeriac, squashes, outdoor tomatoes and cucumbers. I was given some unusual/novelty seeds for Christmas including red spouts, purple carrots and yellow courgettes so will be interested to see if the seedlings produce some brightly coloured produce!

Unfortunately, this is the season for pests like thrips, aphids and blackfly so keep a watchful eye. Soapy spray – like diluted washing up liquid – is very effective and very cheap.

We don’t have any spare plots at the moment, but do contact us if you’d like to go on our waiting list. Contact our membership secretary, Angela Brown: 01473 612283 / membership@kesgrave-allotments.org.uk Sally Peckham

DEBEN FLOWER CLUB On Tuesday 11 June at 7.30pm Linda Kingcott from Leigh-on-Sea in Essex will present a demonstration entitled The Green Man and Friends in Kirton Church Hall, Church Lane, Kirton IP10 0PU. Visitors are always assured of a warm welcome so why not join us for a fun and entertaining evening? The beautiful floral designs will be raffled at the end of the evening and coffee and biscuits will be served.

Indoor meetings recommence in September with Costa Rica Explored with Ian Barthorpe, RSPB Minsmere Visitor Experience Officer who will be well known to many. Talks take place on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm in Rushmere St Andrew Church Hall, The Street, Rushmere IP5 1DH between September and April (inclusive). You don’t need to be a member of either the national organisation or local group. Charges, which include refreshments, are £5 for non-members and £2.50 and £2.30 (concessions) for members of the local group. Young people under 16 (who must be accompanied) are free.

Further information for both indoor and outdoor meetings can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/groups/ipswich, on Twitter @IpswichRSPB, RSPB Ipswich Local Group on Facebook or by calling 01394 809236.

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ON THE GRAPEVINE ONE BIG FUN DAY New RSPCA event at Earl Stonham Join the RSPCA Suffolk East & Ipswich Branch at a lively new event to raise money for the animals in our care. Taking place at Earl Stonham Village Hall (Forward Green, IP14 5HJ) on Sunday, June 16, our One Big Fun Day includes a fun dog show, refreshments, raffle, tombola, bric-a-brac and various other stalls.

Part of a series of RSPCA events happening nationwide on the same day, you can find out about the animal welfare and rehoming work we do and enjoy yourself at the same time!

Entrance is free, and the event opens at 11.30am. Dog show registration starts at noon and judging from 1pm.

CLASSES 1pm: Crossbreed with Character 1.15pm: Happiest Hound 1.30pm: Young at Heart (dogs 8 years +) 1.45pm: Second Chance (rescued dogs) 2pm: Fabulous Female 2.15pm: Marvellous Male 2.30pm: Kids & K9s (young handlers up to 16 years old) 2.45pm: Best in Show All proceeds will go to the RSPCA Suffolk East & Ipswich Branch to help animals in need in the local area.

Contact Mary Taylor: mary.taylor@rspca-ipswich.org.uk www.rspca-ipswich.org.uk

PETER’S FOUR COUNTIES CYCLE CHALLENGE Suffolk-born Peter Berry (54) was diagnosed at the age of 50 with early onset Alzheimer’s and has used his passion for cycling to raise awareness of the condition, particularly in younger people. Last year he cycled from Aberystwyth to Aldeburgh, a total of over 360 miles, and raised in excess of £6,000. This year he has challenged himself to do the Four Counties Cycle Challenge on Sunday 23 June to raise money and awareness for YoungDementia UK. Together with friends and anyone else with a life-changing condition, Peter will cycle across four counties, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and Norfolk. Of course, Peter, being Peter, is not content with cycling across four counties and intends to do the entire challenge on a Penny Farthing!

Please make a special effort to arrive at various points along the route and cheer Peter, Deb, Jan, Mark and Mike on their journey. Any cyclists who wish to get involved may do so by giving a donation of £5 to join in with the ride.

They will start it Friston and make their way down Yarmouth Road into Melton Street and on into Woodbridge, turning left at the traffic lights, following South Road past Elmhurst Park and The Riverside Theatre on Ipswich Road and on to Kesgrave and Ipswich. If there’s anywhere along this route that’s convenient for folks to gather, please get your friends together to cheer them on their way.

Peter’s fundraising target is £1,000. If you’d like to support him you can make a donation at: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/PeterBerryFourCounties

NATURE’S VALUE PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITIONS Come and admire Nature’s Value as captured by the best and brightest entries in the Suffolk Marine Pioneer Photography Competition. The exhibitions are being held to help illustrate the importance of the natural world in supporting our day-to-day lives, in what is now called ‘natural capital thinking’. They are supported by Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and are free to browse.

The Longshed Mezzanine, Woodbridge IP12 1FP Saturday 8 June: 3-6pm Sunday 9 June: 10am-4pm Monday 10 June: noon-6pm Tuesday 11 June: noon-6pm Wednesday 12 June: noon-6pm Ipswich County Library, Northgate Street, Ipswich IP1 3DE June 17-29: Viewing available during library opening hours

Good luck Peter. You truly are an inspiration.

FELIXSTOWE BOOK FESTIVAL Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 June The Felixstowe Book Festival is now one of the most important events in Suffolk’s calendar and Jackamans Solicitors is proud to have been a co-sponsor since the beginning. Now in its seventh year it is thriving, and continues to increase in the number and range of its events; broadening its appeal to individuals of virtually any age and reading taste.

The festival offers a varied literary programme which includes authors’ events in four Felixstowe venues; a pop up festival on the seafront, at our historic fort and museum, and on the two rivers which border the town. This year there will also be a special package of writing workshops – being promoted to writing groups nationally – to attract aspiring writers to the festival. This will increase the festival’s profile and encourage a range of audiences from a larger geographical area. Last year more than 1,000 tickets were sold and this year the number is likely to increase.

There is an exciting range of author events for both adults and children.

The speakers include well-known and respected writers covering a wide range of genres and also debut novelists and those from writing groups.

To demonstrate the festival’s diversity, authors include former politician Alan Johnson, Alison Weir (author of Anna of Kleve: Queen of Secrets) and Esther Freud (festival patron) and half-sister Annie Freud discussing Annie’s poetry. Children’s events are incredibly diverse and include Hotel Flamingo Drawalong with Alex Milway, Sutton Hoo Roadshow, Operation Buried Treasure with Ally Sherrick and Calling Mission Control.

Spoilt for choice, you will have the pick of at least three speaker events each hour from early Saturday morning until Sunday evening. This format creates a warm and vibrant festival atmosphere. If you haven’t attended Felixstowe Book Festival before – or any book festival – do give this one a try!

Taken in Beccles by Lorna Townsend

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For further information and to book your tickets, please visit: https://felixstowebookfestival.co.uk

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ON THE GRAPEVINE IPSWICH & DISTRICT HISTORICAL TRANSPORT SOCIETY Ipswich & District Historical Transport Society (IDHTS) is seeking to appoint a replacement chairperson. The current chairman, Martyn Hunt, is retiring after holding this position since September 1996.

The volunteer position is open to anyone, preferably with a transport interest. You will head up a buoyant and very successful local society with an extremely supportive committee.

Recently the society appealed successfully for a replacement secretary and subsequently appointed David Kerridge.

Interested parties should contact Martyn Hunt (01473 422145) or David Kerridge (01473 424904).

QUESTIONS ON CASH With Independent Financial Adviser Nick Plumb Alan from Ipswich asks: “I have been reading an article about Corporate Bond funds. It has been suggested that the banks mis-sold a lot of these instead of equity investments during the bear market, and they were pushed as a low risk investment, when in fact, there are risks with these investments just like stocks and shares. Are Corporate Bonds a good or bad investment?”

It depends what you want them to do for you Alan. Although Corporate Bond funds can be a good way of preserving your capital against a falling stock market, their main benefit is for those investors who require an income.

One of the easiest ways of investing into a Corporate Bond fund is through a collective investment like an OEIC or Unit Trust. The funds can also be purchased within an ISA wrapper if you have not used your ISA allowance, which is particularly useful if you are looking for income, as a Corporate Bond ISA will produce a more tax efficient income than an Equity Income ISA. From 6 April 1999, the amount of tax that could be reclaimed by ISA fund managers on dividends from equity-based funds was reduced from 20 to 10 per cent. This was reduced to zero from 6 April 2004. However, the tax reclaim on Corporate Bond funds is still 20 per cent, which means your ISA manager can reclaim all of the tax deducted back from the Inland Revenue. That makes them very attractive if you want a tax-efficient income from your money.

One of the best Corporate Bond funds available if you need an income is the M&G High Yield Corporate Bond fund. This is a low to medium risk fund, which invests in a broad mix of bonds offering a higher than average yield. The fund has no bid/ offer spread, initial charges or plan fees and has a low annual management charge of just 0.65 per cent per annum of the ISA fund value. The current natural income yield from the M&G High Yield Corporate Bond Fund is around 4.1 per cent net of investment charges, which can be paid monthly or quarterly as a tax-free income.

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 IP6 8JP, email nickplumb@aol.com, or telephone Nick on 01473 830301.

Nick’s comments and answers to reader’s questions in this column are provided only as a general guide and do not constitute personal financial advice. Any readers who require advice on their own situation should contact Nick to arrange a no-obligation complimentary initial consultation to discuss their own position. Plumb Financial Services are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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ON THE GRAPEVINE / SCHOOLS SUFFOLK’S ANSWER TO FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS Dance Folkus welcomes sixpiece Capstan Full Strength (pictured) who will perform at our taster song spot on Friday, June 7. Capstan Full Strength is a Suffolk based harmony group originally formed in 1998 to sing shanties. They have performed at shanty festivals in the Netherlands, France, Ireland and the famous Krakow festival in Poland. They are regular hosts at the Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival and have sung many times at the Harwich Shanty Festival. They have performed for the last three years as guests at FolkEast and are the hosts for the local Hacheston Song and Ale Weekend held in May for the last three years. They offer a powerful broadside of sound and now feature songs of the sea, land and work.

The main part of the evening will be our regular first Friday barn dance format. Our caller will be Trevor Beckford who joins us from over the border in Brooke, Norfolk. This will be Trevor’s first visit to Dance Folkus. With his enthusiastic style, our audience should expect plenty of different dances in the evening.

The dance band will be led by local ceilidh band Harbour Lights, with additional musicians making up to 12 people in the Dance Folkus ‘Come All Ye’ Band. New dancers wanting to attend can book a discounted place by emailing Dancefolkus@aol.com (no payment in advance) or you can simply come along on the night (entry £7). Students or children are £3 at the door. Bring your own drink! If you need further information contact Rob on 01473 610951. Visitors to Woodbridge and new first-time dancers are always very welcome to attend our dances at Woodbridge Community Hall in Station Road IP12 4AU from 7.30pm.

HEDGEHOG NURSERY AT GORSELAND PRIMARY SCHOOL As the warmer weather has come in, so has our interest in discovering those miniature monsters that live in our gardens! Minibeasts have been located and observed underneath logs, tyres and even underneath our mud pit. We also discovered of a tunnel, which led to all sorts of questioning and thinking about who, or what made it.

We are getting ready for our super sports day, practising ball skills, jumping, balancing and having a go at running in a straight line.

Our forest adventures still continue and each week we discover something new to become curious about. We made fairy houses, nests, mud sculptures and found objects that have been left over from when the airfield was still active!

Our growing garden is coming along well, with all the little sunflowers getting stronger for the school allotment. Some of us have been to the allotment to help grandparents to plant up tomato and cucumber plants. We are certainly a green-fingered bunch! We also have our very own beanstalks to plant up and hope to go looking for giants!

The oldest Hedgehogs are getting ready for their big move to their schools in September with dressing up in school uniforms, looking at books about school and being involved in lots of other fun things that involve big school.

HEATH PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY This term we have journeyed into the realms of superheroes. Our first adventure took us into the past as we discovered historical heroes, learnt how to be brave and gallant knights, daring princesses and majestical dragons. The children were getting quite excited wanting to unveil their surprise role play area and had a magical time in Rapunzel’s tower and reading the traditional tale of The Princess and the Pea. We have read fantastical comic capers of storybook superheroes and the famous super spud Supertato. Our role play has become a lair for our superheroes where children have enjoyed dressing up and saving the day with their super powers and trusty sidekicks. The children have loved defeating the evil pea, discovering potato mashers at the tuff spot and have created some beautiful watercolour super veggie paintings, ripped paper Supertato collages and real life mini-me Supertatos and Super Carrots. Writing speech bubbles in the comic book style has brought the children’s characters to life.

Next, we will be discovering the real life superheroes living in our community.

The children will learn what it’s like to be a vet and care for animals and will be invited to bring a pet (a toy one of course) into school.

NURSERY SPACES – SEPTEMBER 2019 Our school nursery is full at the moment, but we are accepting applications and allocating places for September 2019, although places are filling up fast.

If you would like to find out more about our fantastic, teacher-led school nursery and see us in action, you can call the school office on 01473 622806 and arrange an appointment for a guided tour at a time that is convenient to you.

Nursery Teacher Helen Whatley

HEATHLANDS COMMUNITY PRE-SCHOOL Heathlands is a well-established, committeerun pre-school situated in the grounds of Broke Hall Community Primary School. We can offer funded places for eligible two year olds and for all other children the term after their third birthday.

Breakfast and afterschool clubs our also available. We are pleased to accept applications for September 2019 and beyond.

UPCOMING EVENTS Monday, June 17, 7.30pm: Open Evening for perspective pre-school children Saturday, July 13, 10am-1pm: Summer Fair – everyone welcome Our theme this term is Around the World and we have transformed our playroom into a travel agents and are looking at different cultures and places around the world. Our playhouse is now a fully operational farm shop and the children are enjoying selling different produce.

We have all enjoyed learning new skills during our Skills and Cultures week and been learning musical instruments, singing, Bollywood dancing, Zumba and ended the week with a Kinder Carnival.

Nursery Lead Teacher Mrs T Haig

Our open evening is a great chance for parents of prospective pre-school children to hear what we have to offer, visit the setting and meet the team.

If you are interested, please telephone Marie Fennell on 01473 417517 to book a place.

Hedgehog Nursery is open Monday-Friday from 7.30am-6pm for three and four year olds. If you would like more information please contact the school office on 01473 623790 or visit: www.gorseland.net

Our summer fair is open to everyone, please come and join us for the usual fun of the fair. We have a fancy dress competition for best dressed superhero and princesses – we look forward to seeing you there!

If you are ‘curious’ and have a three or four-year-old, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the school office to arrange a visit.

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● Stainfree & Wool Carpet ● Luxury vinyl tiles ● Vinyl ● Woven & Natural Flooring 01473 626 097 | info@debencarpetsandflooring.co.uk Unit N Bristol Court, Betts Avenue, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich, IP5 3RY www.debencarpetsandflooring.co.uk @Debencarpets /DebenCarpetsAndFlooring

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Life | Land | Business

Whatever life brings we’re always here for you We're Walking for Parkinson's Join Us Glemham Hall, IP13 0BT Sunday 9 June 2019 1.5, 3.5 and 5.5 mile routes To register go to: parkinsons.org.uk/walkglemham19 0344 225 3691 Parkinson’s UK is the operating name of the Parkinson’s Disease Society of the United Kingdom.

A charity registered in England and Wales (258197) and in Scotland (SC037554). © Parkinson’s UK

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SCHOOLS / SPORT SUMMER TERM AT BRIGHT STARS

ANYONE FOR CROQUET? Ipswich Club Open Day, Sunday, June 9

Fun activity sessions for pre-school aged children with parents, grandparents, friends, family and/or carers on the second and fourth Mondays of each month during term times from 10.30am-noon at St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath IP5 3PL. Sessions are free and usually based on a theme. They normally include singing, games, crafts and Bible stories. After each session we have refreshments, when the adults can chat and the children can play until approximately noon.

The next session dates for the summer term are June 10 and 24 and July 8.

Just turn up, there’s no need to let us know in advance.

For further information please contact Sonya and Maureen Burrows: 01473 625196

THREE BEARS PLAYGROUP The children are busy changing the role play area into a garden centre, making paper flowers and selling things to their friends. Outside our seedlings planted at the gardening workshop are all growing well and looking good, so we are busy potting on and planting out into our vegetable bed and looking forward to eating those strawberries.

We had some live caterpillars arrive and the children are watching and learning about their journey to become butterflies. It’s all very exciting.

Ipswich Croquet Club has been a part of Ipswich society for over 100 years, and more recently has produced world and national champions. This year two of its juniors have been selected for the World Schools Championships.

Once a sport rated second only to cricket in this country it remains an enthralling game combining physical skill with mental agility. Today croquet is played as much for fun as competitively by people of all backgrounds and ages. In 1900 it became the first Olympic sport to include women.

To celebrate this great sport the club is holding a free entry open day on its lawns at Fynn Valley from 10.30am to 3.30pm. This will be a great day out and for many a chance to try something a little different.

All the equipment will be provided and club members will be on hand if required to show you the ropes. All you need is a pair of flat-soled shoes.

Cakes and refreshments will be available at the pavilion, and the fabulous new Café Terrace will be serving food and drink including a great Sunday lunch which is well worth booking (01473 785267).

For further information visit: www.ipswichcrochetclub.com

MARTLESHAM CARPET BOWLS

Our woodwork station is up and running this term with children learning about how to use the tools safely to make and create.

Thank you to everyone who brought instruments in for our orchestra week and especially to Zoe who came and shared her musical knowledge and skills with us. We all really enjoyed your visit.

We are sorting admission for September 2019. If you are interested in a place for your child at a fantastic setting with amazing staff, contact us now.

Three Bears Playgroup, Wilkinson Drive, Kesgrave IP5 2ES 01473 635255 / threebearsplaygroup@btconnect.com www.threebearsplaygroup.org.uk

We held our annual dinner on April 11 at Woodbridge Golf Club. Twenty-four members and guests attended, and we were very well looked after. Thanks to Judith Longman and Bob Wellington for organising the customary after dinner quiz.

The club competitions have now been completed. Most have already been reported, but in the two remaining finals Bob Wellington beat Vic Harrup in the Men’s Singles, and Vic Harrup beat Gordon Levett to take the Club Championship.

KESGRAVE CRICKET CLUB Our senior teams got off to a good start in 2019 with the 1st Team winning two out of three matches and the 2nd Team winning their only match. Notable batting performances so far are Matt Oliver (83), Mike Worne (58no, 36 and 34), Steve Worne (55) and Danny McCall (35). Bowling performances of note are: Andy Thompson (4 for 16), Connor Betts (4 for 43 and 3 for 51), Shah Jahangir (3 for 12) and Nathan Pryke (3 for 35).

Our junior coaching is going well on Sunday mornings with more than 40 signed up and around 30 youngsters signed up for our all-stars (Years 5-8) sessions. This is our future and part of the club we are very proud of.

Following on from our success in becoming Second Division champions, we played a friendly match against Bealings, who ended the season as Third Division champions. It was an enjoyable evening that provided the opportunity for both teams to be presented with their trophies (pictured).

The AGM took place on May 7 and was attended by 28 members. The officers were re-elected unopposed. Four committee members stood down this year, with special thanks going to Judith Longman who has served on the committee for 17 years. Peter Mullett, Dave Seggers and Nigel Abbott were also thanked by the chairman, who hoped they would still continue to take an active role in supporting the club. New members on the committee are Sharon Clarke, Diana Gaskin and Eddie Manning.

For fixture details and more information please visit: www.kesgravecricketclub.org.uk

We still have a few vacancies at the club and would welcome new members.

We meet at the community hall on Old Felixstowe Road on Tuesday and Friday afternoons from 1.30 to 4.30pm and on Tuesday evenings from 7.30 to 10pm. In a session we play a number of friendly games, with a break for tea and biscuits. No previous experience is necessary, it’s not physically challenging and the club provides all of the necessary equipment. Just turn up or contact our secretary, Ian Hunt – 01473 611947 / douglas.benger@btinternet.com – especially if you plan to come along on a Tuesday evening as there may be a league match.

Dickie Bard

Doug Benger

Attention Ladies: Our Women’s Softball Cricket Festival will take place on Friday, June 7 at 6pm. Details and online sign-up form can be found on our website. Please try and get a few friends to come along and have some fun.

The bar will be open and there will be a barbecue too.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/kesgrave

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SPORT / CHURCH NEWS KESGRAVE & NORTHGATE ASSOCIATED KARATE CLUB Massive congratulations go to our club member Ruby Hunt who won a gold medal in Cyprus at the prestigious World Karate Federation Youth League K1, karate’s equivalent of the world premier league, on Sunday, May 5.

Ruby had to win five tough fights for the gold medal, beating Cyprus 11-1, Russia 2-1, Greece 6-2, Russia 3-0 and USA 4-3. She fought in the 12-13 year old -42kg category and received a black eye along the way for her trouble.

Ruby has a busy year ahead defending her title as English and British Champion and competing for a place in the England team going to the World Championships in Chile this October! Good luck Ruby – we will keep you all posted with her achievements.

We would also like to say a huge thank you to one of our club sponsors, ISElectrical. Not only have they made a generous donation to club funds, but have also donated a large number of club branded water bottles which we now have for sale on our website. The proceeds help boost club funds further! We are truly very grateful for your continued support.

If you think you would like to try karate then why not come along a give it a go? The first lesson is free. Check out our website for class times and locations or contact us for more information: admin@northgate-karate.co.uk / 01473 622707 www.northgate-karate.co.uk

By the end of June we’ll be half way through the year and I’m wondering where that time has gone. The passage of time is something we, as humans, all feel and it sometimes seems that there is not enough of it for what we have to do. For God there is no passing of time as He stands outside time and space, He was, is and always will be. We believe that God created us out of love, that He loves us still and that He wants to be with us beyond our time on earth. This is our hope and where we place our faith and find our peace.

Here at the Ark our members come from all walks of life, educational, legal, medical, financial and those working in caring and industry, but we are all aiming for the higher calling which is to love God and to love people, whoever and whatever they are. Jesus said “it’s easy to love those who love us”, but what about those in our society who are not in the mainstream, living at the margin and on the outside.

What God wants from us is to show His love in action by reaching those lost souls and being an example of His love to everyone we meet. That’s what we want to demonstrate as a church community. So it’s not about just sitting in church on a Sunday, although worshipping, praising and thanking God is important, it should be much, much more than that. It must be a day by day commitment to follow Jesus no matter what. Want to know more then maybe we’ll see on Sunday.

Join us on Sunday mornings at 11.30am (Adult Sunday School and Children’s Church, 10.30am) at The Ark Church, The Drift, Nacton Road, Ipswich IP3 9QR. You can contact us via email at: arkipswichuk@gmail.com We can also be found on Facebook and on Twitter @arkipswich or online at www.arkipswich.co.uk where you’ll find latest updates on our ‘What’s Happening at the Ark’ page.

BIXLEY FARM CHURCH AT TOWER HALL Moving into June we are looking forward to Pentecost on June 9, a festival where Christians celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is the third part of the Trinity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit that had been promised by Jesus (John 14:26).

The account in Acts 2 reports that after Jesus ascended into heaven, Jesus’ followers were gathered together and the Holy Spirit “filled the whole house where they were sitting” and “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them”. Through this infilling the apostles had a greater confidence and understanding, enabling them to share the message of the Gospel to all nations and languages.

Now that we are entering the month of June, we are halfway through the year. How time flies! As I write, I am reminded of a quote by Francis King: “On this June day the buds in my garden are almost as enchanting as the open flowers. Things in bud bring, in the heat of a June noontide, the recollection of the loveliest days of the year, those days of May when all is suggested, nothing yet fulfilled.”

Once again it reminds us of God’s love to us in creation. We live our lives by the months as they come and go. We know that spring follows winter, summer follows spring, the autumn follows the summer and winter follows autumn. We pray that the seasons will continue, even though we know climate change is a real threat to the world. May we be comforted by the fact that our God is in control of the world.

OUR USUAL SERVICES

Bixley Farm Church has two sister churches and together as Mission Ipswich East (MIE) they are welcoming Glen Scrivener, a prolific author, filmmaker and evangelist to Ipswich for a week from June 9-16 to share the message of the Gospel. All events can be found at: www.mie.org.uk

Sunday: 10.45am and 6.30pm

You are welcome to any event, but we especially invite you to the evening event at Tower Hall on Friday, June 14 called Love Story where we will be hosting a three course meal and Glen will be sharing something of God’s story from one of his books. There is no charge to attend and all are welcome.

Wednesday 2.30pm: Friendship Hour on the second Wednesday of each month 2pm: Rag Tag Club on the first Wednesday of each month. To find out more please ring Myrna: 01473 728361 7pm: Art & Craft Group

MIE is also hosting a Community Shared Lunch on Sunday, June 2, 12.302.30pm at Tower Hall. All are welcome, including families and there will be activities for children. Bring a plate of food to share, come and have a cuppa and a chat with people from your local community.

As always you are welcome to our weekly service each Sunday at 4pm at Tower Hall.

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Monday 6.15-7.30pm: FFaF Children’s Club for School Years 2-6 7.15pm: Spring for Youth

Thursday 12.30pm: Luncheon Club Friday 9.15am: Rushmere Ducklings for Babies & Tots Saturday 10.30am-noon: Meeting Point Coffee Morning (fourth Saturday) Minister: The Rev Heather Marsden / Secretary: Mrs Jean Cutting 01473 721455 / www.rushmerebaptist.org.uk

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