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Volume 7 • Issue No. 2 • DECEMBER 2016
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NEWS
A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I’ve just been informed that Auntie Sarah will be visiting Suffolk on December 3 and as it’s the perfect opportunity to get Christmas presents to that side of the family (all 11 of them) I’m now on a deadline! Thank goodness there are many, many Christmas markets and festivals coming up. They are a particularly useful place to find locally produced gifts for out-oftowners. I’m definitely focused on finding handmade gifts this year, possibly inspired by the beautiful Christmas Tree decoration I received from a close friend last year. It was one of my favourite presents and I’m secretly hoping she gives me another this year. I have been dropping heavy hints since June or thereabouts so I’m quite hopeful. There are many good reasons to shop local at Christmas, not least the fact that your spending will boost the local economy, save or indeed generate jobs, support local entrepreneurs and create a more vibrant and engaged community. There’s also the social aspect, the fact that you are more likely to find quirky, one-off items, maybe even try before you buy and get a better deal or some advice. According to a new study, UK shoppers are predicted to spend £73 billion this Christmas, with online sales accelerating to unprecedented levels. Apparently convenience, price comparison and avoiding crowds and queues are three of the main reasons why online shopping is so popular, but don’t assume than ‘online’ and ‘local’ are entirely contradictory. Most of our local retailers sell online so you can take advantage of the benefits of online shopping and support local business at the same time. For me, Christmas means cleaning the house from top to bottom (sad I know, but deeply embedded) and down ‘n’ dirty old style shopping with the crowds, the queues, the Christmas music, carol singers, hot chocolate, mince pies and a glass or two of mulled wine to soothe aching muscles. I can’t wait. On behalf of my colleagues here at Mansion House Publishing I wish you and yours a Happy and Peaceful Christmas.
In Touch
with Burstall & Sproughton
In Touch with Burstall & Sproughton 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: sproughton@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
01473 400380
Distribution Tree Martin Email: tree@intouchnews.co.uk
01473 400380
Printing Colourplan Print Email: steve@colourplan.co.uk
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 Burstall & Sproughton is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the “In Touch with . . . ” series of magazines.
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IN TOUCH WITH . . . • Hadleigh • Stowmarket • Capel St Mary • East Bergholt, Dedham & Flatford • Kesgrave & Rushmere • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Pin Mill, Holbrook, Woolverstone & Erwarton • Claydon, Barham & Henley • Manningtree, Mistley, Lawford & Brantham • Martlesham Heath & Old Martlesham • Bramford, Offton & Somersham • Woodbridge & Melton • Gt. & Lt. Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead • Westerfield, Witnesham & Tuddenham St. Martin • Copdock, Washbrook, Belstead, Bentley & Tattingstone • Ipswich East, Broke Hall, Ravenswood & Warren Heath • Needham Market, Creeting St Mary & Creeting St Peter
CPR TRAINING Thanks to the British Heart Foundation, Burstall now has a community defibrillator (in the red telephone box). We have also been provided with training equipment. This is BHF’s statement: •
Learn CPR and save a life. Teach CPR and save thousands.
•
Every year in the UK over 30,000 cardiac arrests occur out of hospital. That’s 30,000 opportunities to help save a life.
•
You are part of our Nation of Lifesavers, by learning CPR you will be arming your pupils with the skills that could help save lives in your society.
•
Currently in the UK just one in 10 people survive, however in countries like Norway, where CPR is more widely taught, almost four in 10 people survive.
There will be two free training sessions in Burstall Village Hall on Saturday, December 10. Classes of 10 students with each session taking about one hour. Times: 2-3pm and 3.30-4.30pm. If you are interested in learning CPR please contact Ann Burchnall: 652262 / ann.burchnall@gmail.com
SEND LOCAL CHRISTMAS CARDS FOR ONLY 25p Celebrating our 30th year, Ipswich Scouts are running their Christmas Post collection and delivery service. We collect and deliver cards to all IP1-IP5 areas as well as Westerfield, Tuddenham, Henley, Witnesham, Rushmere, Kesgrave, Martlesham, Pinewood, Grundisburgh, Gt & Lt Bealings, Playford, Claydon, Gt and Little Blakenham, Bramford and Sproughton. This year we are also including delivery to Felixstowe, The Trimleys and Kirton. Cards cost 25p each and will be collected between November 25 and December 8 for delivery before Christmas. All proceeds go to the groups involved. The local collection points are: • Changed collection point: CO-OP, Bramford • Sproughton Community Shop • Somersham Community Shop Cards and correct payment should be put in a sealed bag and dropped off at one of the above collection points. Rhona Clement, 4th Ipswich Scout Leader
IN TOUCH WITH . . .
JANUARY DEADLINE
2 DECEMBER 2016 is the final date for both advertising & editorial copy
www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton
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NEWS SPROUGHTON TODDLERS CHRISTMAS FAYRE 2016 Sunday, December 11 Noon-4pm in the Tithe Barn A combined event for Sproughton church and school. All the usual features such as: •
The Grand Draw for six Christmas Hampers (tickets now on sale) •
Bottle Stall and Tombola
It seems that the only way Sproughton Toddlers can continue next year is if enough parents, grandparents and helpers can reliably commit to regular but occasional supervision so that a rota system can be set up to share the supervisor role.
•
Refreshments all day long
There are two main tasks:
•
• •
Father Christmas in his grotto
Cup cakes and biscuits to be decorated
•
Christmas Stall and Iced Fruit Cake Raffle
Games of skill, guessing and luck to entertain you •
PLEASE READ THIS IMPORTANT MESSAGE Many readers will know that Tony and Rosie Wilcox have recently retired from their valued and long-standing roles running Sproughton Toddlers. In discussions between the parents, it is clear that we all lead busy lives and the obligations which having children or grandchildren bring mean that regular commitment to supervise the weekly sessions is not possible for any single individual or couple. The future of the group as an important social and learning activity for young children and parents is currently uncertain beyond the end of 2016.
Handbell Ringing and Carol Singing •
And much, much more!
ALL WE NEED NOW – IS YOU! There will be no Morning Market on December 10
•
Arriving at the Church Hall in Lower Street at about 8.45am, half an hour before the session starts at 9.15am to open up the hall and set out the room
•
Helping to clear away at the end of the session (currently 11.15am), ensuring the hall is left clean, tidy and safe for other users
There are other occasional ancillary jobs like maintaining a register, organising outings, obtaining supplies for refreshments and for restocking disposables like nappies, wipes and bags and reporting to the church’s annual meeting, but these can be separately undertaken by other volunteers if the group remains viable. In order to determine if a future is possible, a public meeting of interested people is being called for Friday, December 16 at 7pm. The meeting will be held in the Church Hall. Please make every effort to attend if you are a user of the toddler group, either current or potential, or an adult with time and the interest to get involved. It would be very helpful if you could let us know if you intend to be there by texting your name in advance to 07578 552324. It is important to stress that without a resolution to this dilemma, Sproughton Toddlers will close its doors at the end of this year.
A PLEA FOR HOSPITALITY If you are aged 40 - 74 and have not had a stroke or been diagnosed with heart disease,
Aged 40cholesterol, to 74? Find outpressure, aboutkidney yourdisease FREEorNHS Health Check high high blood diabetes then you are eligible for NHS health Evena free though youcheck. might be feeling great, if you’re over 40 you might be To arrange the check contactstroke, your registered GPdisease, practice who will be ableor to dementia. make an at risk of heart disease, kidney diabetes A for you. Alternatively, you can alsoreduce contact OneLife arrange the sure freeappointment NHS Health Check can help you theseSuffolk risks toand make you on (01473) 718193. thatcheck youforstay healthy. Having the health check will better prepare you www.healthysuffolk.org.uk/healthchecks for the future and will enable you to take steps to maintain and improve your health. What will happen at the check? The check will take 20-30 minutes and will involve the health professional asking you a few simple questions regarding your family history and lifestyle. They will also check your height, weight and other details, as well as test your blood pressure and complete a simple blood test to check your cholesterol level. After the check they will talk you through your results and explain to you what they mean, giving you personalised advice on how to lower your risk and maintain a healthy lifestyle. You may also be prescribed further treatment or medication to help maintain your health.
A Russian friend who teaches English to adults in St Petersburg is planning to bring a group here next summer and I have the task of finding accommodation for them in local households. The dates are expected to be from around July 9/10 for two weeks. The request is for bed, breakfast, a packed lunch and an evening meal. They are coming in order to learn more about our country and culture, improve their English, and because they genuinely regard a visit to this country as ‘the trip of a lifetime’. If you think you might be able to help in any way, please contact me for more details. Thank you. The Rev Tony Wilcox, 58 Sproughton Court, Sproughton IP8 3AJ 01473 461561 / tony.wilcox@caringhandsru.org
HELP FUND A REAL CHRISTMAS TREE AT ALL SAINTS
Arrange your NHS Health Check If you are aged 40-74 and have not had a stroke or been diagnosed with heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, kidney disease or diabetes then you are eligible for a free NHS health check.
Dear Friends In 2014 we had a generous donation in response to a plea to help with purchasing a real Christmas Tree for All Saints Church Sproughton. The tree provided a beautiful backdrop to the Advent, Christmas and Epiphany festivities that we hosted.
To arrange the check please contact your registered GP practice who will be able to make an appointment for you. Alternatively, you can also contact OneLife Suffolk to arrange the check for you on 01473 718193.
If you are willing to help with sponsoring a smaller tree (6-7ft) for beside the altar in 2016, or you have a Christmas tree growing in your garden that you would be prepared to donate, we would be very grateful. Please contact The Rev Annette (807674) or Michael Earey (742766).
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NEWS SPROUGHTON PARISH COUNCIL The parish council’s last full council meeting was held on Wednesday, November 9. Draft and agreed minutes can be found at http:// sproughton.onesuffolk.net/parish-council and on the noticeboards on the village green (Lower Street) and Hadleigh Road.
Grants awarded by the parish council Recent awards have been £200 to Sproughton Senior Citizens Club and a conditional grant of £1,000 to Sproughton Parochial Church Council towards project funding for church hall improvements.
The next scheduled council meeting is on Wednesday, December 14, starting at 7.30pm in the Barley Room at Sproughton Tithe Barn, Lower Street. Meetings normally conclude by 9pm. Members of the public are always welcome to attend. County Councillor Dave Busby and District Councillors Nicholas Ridley and Barry Gasper are normally in attendance to give reports of their recent activities and to answer queries and question.
Children’s play area on the playingfield Maintenance works funded by the parish council to play equipment to the tune of circa £3,000 have now been completed. As this item goes to press, the council has just received the annual maintenance and safety inspection report for the play area; it’s fit for purpose and safe.
Vacancies still exist for parish councillors There are seven councillor seats remaining vacant on the council. With so many vacancies, there is every possibility that the community could miss out on funding opportunities as certain project funding criteria requires councils to have something called The General of Competence which is associated with membership/vacancy numbers. The use of money raised from local development through the Community Infrastructure Levy could be restricted. It also means that we are limited in what we can actually cope with beyond our statutory duties. So please consider putting yourself forward for membership. Your community needs you. 2017/2018 parish council draft budget and precept Your council is currently in the process of setting and agreeing its budget and precept (the amount to be raised through council tax) for the next financial year, starting April 2017. It is considering setting a budget of £56,820 which is likely to equate to virtually nil percent change in Council Tax precept on the current year. The council plans to approve its budget at its December meeting. The amount of precept that this will require will not be known until Babergh advises what the Council Tax base for Sproughton will be in January 2017.
Parish defibrillator The council has resolved to provide a defibrillator for public use and has approved a budget of £1,500 for purchase and installation. The council are seeking to site it adjacent to Lower Street at the east end of the Tithe Barn. Recycling collections by Babergh / SCC Recent changes to dealing with recyclable materials now means that clothing will not be collected for recycling and that such items should now be taken to charity shops. Also bottle tops should not be disposed of separately, but should be reattached to the bottle (plastic milk bottles) after the air has been squeezed out. Noticeboard The existing parish council noticeboard opposite Chantry Park gates on Hadleigh Road has come to the end of its life and is to be replaced with an aluminium design similar to that adjacent to the bus shelter on Lower Street. Wolsey Grange and Snoasis All remains quiet on the Wolsey Grange proposal front. Although Babergh Planning Committee resolved to grant permission over 10 months ago, the planning permission has technically still not been issued.
Community led development plan During May/June this year volunteers distributed the parish council’s survey questionnaire to every household in Sproughton in order to gain views and facts about the community in order to begin to develop a plan for the village. Eleven per cent of distributed forms were returned completed (63 forms). While this is a reasonable number, the council is looking to increase the number of returns and will over the next few weeks distribute some more survey forms by calling on households. A good number of volunteers have come forward to process the returned survey forms and begin developing the plan.
On another front, the Snoasis proposal has been reignited – submission of details have been received by Mid Suffolk and in due course the parish council will receive details of the application for comment. Mid Suffolk advise that they ae not likely to consider making a decision on the application until spring 2017.
Date for your new 2017 diary Ninth Annual Sproughton Beer Festival: Weekend of May 13 and 14
Please call between 9am and 5pm weekdays only. In an emergency outside these hours, you can contact the chairman.
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Simon Curl, Chairman Sproughton Parish Council, 01473 747114 Sue Frankis, Clerk to the Council, 01473 463852 / pc@sproughton.suffolk.gov.uk
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ADVERTORIAL
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Group Managing Director Marcus McGee believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering the highest standards possible at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has misted up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type of frame, and with a new 25 year guarantee. But it’s not just about saving people money, although that obviously helps. Whilst a number
of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus on customer care as much as they should do, we make sure we turn up when we say we will, do the job the customer requires and leave their house as clean as a whistle. Locally Cloudy2Clear service the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, Hadleigh, Stowmarket & surrounding areas and manager Andy Kerridge agrees that this approach is a major factor in his success. ‘The truth is that it’s not just the personal satisfaction that I get from doing
a good job but also it makes good business sense. I get a huge amount of business from friends and family of people I’ve done work for, which just goes to show how much a little bit of effort is appreciated as both my customers and, obviously a body as nationally important as Which? now recognise.’ So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Andy a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
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NEWS SPROUGHTON MILLENNIUM GREEN
ONE HUNDRED YEARS AGO
First, a big thank you to the 60 or so people who turned out for our last quiz night on October 29. It was a very successful event, raising well over £200, much-needed funds for the maintenance and upkeep of the green.
According to a magazine, the Sunday School had an afternoon of games, prizes and food in the Church Hall on December 28, 1916. The names of eleven scholars who had never missed a session or turned up late were put on a shield.
The success of the night encourages us to consider similar events next year – watch out for notices in In Touch, posters around the village and fliers through your letterbox. Come along to join in the fun and help keep our Millennium Green safe and pleasant to use. It will soon be time to renew your 100 Club tickets for next year and we’ll be sending reminders to our subscribers in the next few weeks. Thank you to all those who continue to support us by taking part in the monthly prize draw for £40. The 100 Club is the mainstay of our fundraising and there is always room for a few more people. If you value having a village green as a breathing space and for community events like the fete and fireworks, why not consider joining our 100 Club? Just £1 a month (that wouldn’t buy you a single cup of coffee) gives you the chance to win a £40 cash prize. You can get full details from me (01473 741410), John Webb (01473 742788) or any of the other directors.
The weather at Christmas 1916 was rather dismal, but the parishioners enjoyed watching the comings and goings of the wedding of Captain Charles Erskine Stuart and Mary Helen Edith Churchman, the daughter of Lt. Col. Arthur C Churchman (later Lord Woodbridge) of Abbey Oaks, on December 30. The organist, Mr Ching, had arranged an augmented choir who sang well. The church was decorated with flowers and plants by Mr Notcutt. Several wounded soldiers from Maryland attended the wedding. On January 2, 1917 where was tea and entertainment in the Church Hall for the wounded soldiers at Maryland. They received gifts of socks, soap, writing pads and sweets. The money for this event came from various subscriptions from the people of Sproughton.
One of the fundraising options we are currently considering is a cash bingo evening. It’s been a while since anything like this was done locally. It would be helpful to have an idea what support there might be for this idea. Let us know at the numbers above, by emailing kenseager511@ gmail.com or texting 07578 552324.
CHRISTMAS CRAFT & GIFT FAIR SUCCESS
Finally, on behalf of our small but enthusiastic team of directors, thank you for your valued support in 2016. Have a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year.
The Christmas Craft and Gift Fair held in the Tithe Barn, Sproughton on Saturday, November 5 raised £215.66 for Sproughton Community Shop and £800 for St Elizabeth Hospice.
Ken Seager
Sue and Zoe wish to thank everyone for their support and help.
Doreen Bradbury
Remembering together this Christmas For over a decade, the East of England Co-op Funeral Services have brought people together at Christmas to celebrate and remember the lives of those close to them, who are no longer with us. This December, they will be hosting a number of carol concerts across the region, as well as collecting messages and memories to place on special ‘Trees to Remember’ at their funeral branches, raising money for local hospices. Andrew Dawes, Head of the East of England Co-op Funeral Services, said: “Having been supporting generations of local families for over 90 years, we understand that Christmas can be particularly difficult for those who have lost someone dear to them. “Tree to Remember is an important part of the ongoing support services we offer bereaved families in the local community. Our trees have collected thousands of memories of those who left a special mark on our lives. This Christmas we invite you to share your own message or memory, and look forward to welcoming you to one of our carol concerts or services.” The very first East of England Co-op funeral branch opened back in 1925 and there are now around 50 branches across the region. As a local, independent business they 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. This Christmas the East of England Co-op will be hosting carol concerts on Wednesday 7th December at 7.30pm at the John Peel Centre in Stowmarket and Thursday 8th December at 7pm at the Bobby Robson suite at Ipswich Town Football Club. All are welcome to attend, with performances from the Ipswich and Norwich Co-op Band, Love to Sing Community Choir and the Co-op Singers.
www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton
Carol Concerts Free Admission
Wednesday 7th December 2016 7.30pm, The John Peel Centre Stowmarket Led by
Paul Bowen Featuring Co-op Singers
Thursday 8th December 2016 7pm, Ipswich Town Football Club The Sir Bobby Robson Suite, Portman Road, Ipswich Led by
Tina Hayward Featuring Love to Sing Community Choir Ipswich & Norwich Co-op Band
Join us to remember loved ones this Christmas To book your place call Stowmarket 01449 612765 Ipswich 01473 257242
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NEWS SPROUGHTON COMMUNITY SHOP: Something for everyone A Happy Christmas to all our readers! So what are we stocking that can help you in your quest for Christmas gifts and feasting? Of course we are offering our famous bespoke hampers. These really are the gift for the person who feels they have everything already, or for the person you simply can’t think of anything for. You can choose how much you want to pay, and for a modest fee the basket will be wrapped beautifully. If you don’t want to, or haven’t got the time, we can choose the contents either to a theme (diabetic, gardening, Suffolk, afternoon tea, fair trade, all things chocolate) or just by putting in delicious specials. Of course, the contents of a hamper don’t need to be 100 per cent edible, which brings me on nicely to the wide range of Traidcraft gifts we stock. There are beautifully carved wooden trivets, bread warming baskets, candle holders made of cinnamon bark which smell delightful when warm, the ever popular Easter Island spectacle holders, and any number of small items for small people. Should you find yourselves at a loss for wrapping paper and string we have a wide range of decorative papers as well as coloured tissue paper and a range of coloured strings made from recycled saris, which is tough and attractive. If you want to give a present of money, why not put it in a hand made paper envelope decorated in gold, or wrapped in a gold printed paper scroll? If your gifts need posting there are padded envelopes, glue and address labels of various kinds. The Christmas card you wish to include can also be found on our shelves. We stock stamps too. I haven’t said anything about Christmas feasting yet. If you are very quick you can order your Christmas turkey or preferred meat now, all reared locally. Your order must be in by December 5. Some people like smoked chipolatas with their goose, and our local dry cured bacons enhance the flavour of the Christmas bird as well as making
an excellent breakfast. There’s Suffolk Blue and Suffolk Gold cheese from Coddenham, along with Hawkston and Shipcord from Baylham to add to the feasting. There are also some mini Christmas cakes in the Traidcraft range, with marzipan and icing, just the right size to fulfil the festive brief without hanging around until February. If you want something really crisp and very local, we have a wide range of heritage apples from Stowmarket in stock. Pitmaston’s Pineapple is a small and very sweet yellow apple, Russets and Coxes we know and love, but have you tried a Manningtree’s Pearmain? As ever, many thanks to our loyal volunteers who have given the village the precious gift of their time, and to our customers without whom we should grind to a halt. CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES Saturday 24: 9.30am-12.30pm Christmas Day: Closed Boxing Day: Closed Tuesday 27: 10am-1pm Wednesday 28: 10am-1pm Thursday 29: 10am-1pm Friday 30: 10am-1pm Saturday 31: 9.30am-12.30pm Sunday 1: Closed Monday 2: Closed Wednesday 3: Closed Thursday 4 onwards: Business as usual The shop-sponsored Family Halloween Disco (see above) in the Tithe Barn was a great success. Thank you to everyone who attended or helped.
THE PERFECT TURKEY One thing that bothers many cooks over the holidays, no matter how well organised, is serving the best traditional main course, specifically turkey and its white meat. However, this season, let it go! You’ve got it in hand now. The easy-peasy instructions are a doddle once read through and understood first. For this recipe, I have taken special precautions to be sure the bird is prepared and cooked thoroughly, but ends up so tender it’s a delight to serve and something to be proud of. First, pick a turkey allowing half a kg per person, and add a bit more for leftovers. You will need a wire rack that will fit in or on a pan big enough to hold the bird and take juices, although there shouldn’t be too much. You will also need a meat thermometer or food temperature gauge (such as is used at the shop). Make sure the area you work in at the sink is clean and sterile (using only those safe for food areas), and any food or utensils far away from the possibility of any splatters from rinsing off the bird. Preheat the oven to 300°/150°/gas mark 2 while you rinse off and dry the bird with paper towelling. There shouldn’t be any cleaning on standard birds, just a rinse-off. If it has been frozen, please be sure it is completely thawed with no ice before starting, Do this the safe way by allowing one day in the refrigerator for every 2.5kg. So, if your turkey weighs 10kgs, it would need to thaw in the refrigerator for four days. It is also best to start cooking the turkey when it has reached room temperature, but do not let it sit around for ages as that will allow bacteria to grow. Using 2-3 dessertspoons of vegetable oil, grease the bird inside and out. Do not use any seasoning at all at this stage. Truss up
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both ends, using skewers and string to hold the legs in place and close up the neck. Place the bird breast-side down on the wire rack, also oiled, which has been placed in or on the pan. Make sure it is large enough to catch all the drippings. Put all of it in the preheated oven. Do not at any stage cover the turkey with foil, a lid or anything else. Do not open the oven door to check. Follow the temperature and time guide shown below. To determine how long, use this guide: Small: 5kg or less at 40-45 minutes per kg (equivalent to 10lbs or less at 20-25 min/lb) Medium: 5-8 kg at 40 minutes per kg (equivalent to 10-16lbs at 18-20 mins/lb) Large: more than 8 kgs at 30-35 minutes per kg (equivalent to 16lbs or greater at 15-18 mins/lb) At about an hour before ETD (Estimated Time of Doneness), turn the turkey over – breast side up. You may wish to sprinkle seasoning on at this time. Finally, test with the food tester or make a hole in the thickest part of the breast just big enough for the meat thermometer. It is done when the internal temperature has reached 85° (185°) and should be nicely browned on the outside, tender and succulent in the inside. Allow it to rest for 20-30 minutes before serving on a hot platter. Enjoy! Best wishes for a happy season, Mary Bright Basan Questions or comments? Email: ms.bb@talktalk.net Birds and meat can be ordered in advance through Sproughton Community Shop: 01473 747768
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NEWS OFFER ACCEPTED The campaign to save our beautiful, oak-beamed local is on the verge of success. Our offer on the Duke of Marlborough has been accepted. The Duke of Marlborough is set to be the fifth community-owned pub in Suffolk, and one of approximately 50 across the country. The individual and collective effort has been aweinspiring. It has involved 22 months of hard work following closure of the pub at Christmas 2014. Around £300,000 has been raised in shareholdings and loans: just enough to make our offer. Dr Sarah Caston, who started the campaign says: “Massive thanks to everyone who’s helped the campaign over the past two years. It has been a long haul to get to this point, but the support has been amazing, and we’re now nearly there. We really can make sure that 500 or 600 years of hospitality at the Duke don’t come to an end now.” So what now? The process of purchasing the pub begins. Exchange and completion have to be agreed. There’s all the conveyancing to be done. Things always take longer than expected, but we want it to happen as soon as possible, and not too far into the new year. There’s loads to do before then including: • Raising more money • Keeping people informed • Gaining more willing hands and (free-of-charge) professional support Raising more money We are able to buy the pub only by the skin of our teeth. Funds are still desperately needed to get the business on its feet. Buying shares is the best way you can help. Why not join the 230 great people who have already invested in this way, or increase your holding if you are one of them? At the same time as saving a precious community asset, you can benefit from 30% tax relief through the EIS scheme. Any questions, just get in touch. Keeping people informed We will be holding a public meeting in the village hall in the near future – we will put up a sign and put a note on the website when a date is set. The meeting will include an update on the purchase, plans for managing the business short and long-term and an opportunity to share ideas. All are welcome – please spread the word. Gaining more willing hands and (free-of-charge) professional support If you, or any of your friends, family or contacts have professional expertise that you would be willing to give, please let us know. This might include things as diverse as support with: • Buying the pub and meeting statutory obligations to get it up and running • Overseeing or providing building, decorating, garden improvement works • Researching collective-buying and service and goods providers • Setting up volunteer employment contracts • Fundraising, marketing, website • Customer services We are looking at setting up an operations/management committee: please let us know if you have relevant commercial experience and would be interested in one of the crucial roles. There must be a great team to make this thing work. And of course there are all the everyday jobs too – which are every bit as important. Just let us know what you’d like to volunteer to do. Here’s to 2017 – and an open Duke of Marlborough. James Batchelor-Wylam, chair of Save the Duke: 07789 691434 www.savetheduke.net
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COUNCILLORS SHORTLISTED FOR NATIONAL AWARDS On Tuesday, November 1, Babergh and Mid Suffolk members joined other representatives from across the UK to pay tribute to the best and most innovative councillors in the country. The councillors gathered in London for the LGiU’s Councillor Awards. This seventh annual awards scheme is the only national showcase honouring the hard work of councillors from across the country. The winners were selected by a judging panel made up of local government experts and councillors. One Babergh member and one Mid Suffolk member were shortlisted for awards out of more than 200 submissions: Councillor Jennie Jenkins, leader of Babergh District Council and member for Leavenheath, was shortlisted for the LGiU award for Leader of the Year and Councillor Gerard Brewster, Mid Suffolk District Council Portfolio Holder for Business Growth and Increased Productivity and member for Stowmarket (South), was shortlisted for the LGiU award for District Councillor of the Year. Sadly neither received the award for their category, but the evening offered a chance to meet with outstanding councillors from across the country and learn how other authorities are meeting the challenges all local government is facing. Councillor Jennie Jenkins said: “The LGiU puts us in touch with other councillors across the country and it was an honour to be shortlisted from such a vast pool of women and men working hard for their communities.” Councillor Gerard Brewster said: “Being shortlisted for District Councillor of the Year was a great experience and I want to thank the LGiU for the work they put into the awards.”
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NEWS SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM
SUFFOLK ENERGY-FROM-WASTE
As we look forward to Christmas 2016 and the New Year 2017, I have a few wise words which I hope you will take the time to read.
Suffolk staff crowned operational team of the year
We all know how stressful and expensive Christmas shopping is and that children and friends look forward to receiving gifts from us. Don’t let theirs and your Christmas be ruined by opportunist thieves who stumble across open doors and windows, cars or sheds, to find neatly wrapped Christmas presents. If you go out make sure your house is secure, lights have been left on and valuables are out of sight. Cars on driveways should be locked and any valuables put in the boot. Why make it easy for someone else to enjoy your hard work and money? Use timer switches at home to give the impression of someone being in now that the nights are darker sooner. Try not to leave presents wrapped and visible from a window. The less incentive there is, the lower the risk you have of a break in to your property. If you are considering making expensive electrical purchases, consider marking them with a security pen and photographing their serial numbers for your records. www.immobilise.com is a free property registration service and a very powerful tool in the fight against crime. We would encourage you to register your valuable and identifiable possessions on this website. Please remember to include make, model and serial numbers where possible. It may be this winter that we experience snow flurries as well as ice cold temperatures. Make sure that you are prepared for this if using your car on the roads. Make sure your fluids are topped up, think about a blanket or warm clothes in the boot in case you get caught in a road closure. It is also worth having your tyres checked by a garage to ensure they are legal and safe to use on the roads. Decent tyres can be lifesavers, and bad ones could cost you your licence. Many people get caught out by sudden changes in road conditions; be prepared to drive slower and plan well ahead for your journey. Suffolk Police will again be taking a zero tolerance approach to alcohol fuelled crime and anti-social behaviour this Christmas. Please drink sensibly when out, have designated drivers; you will not want to be the person who is arrested on Christmas Eve and has to spend the following day in police custody. Remember you can now follow the Safer Neighbourhood Team at Hadleigh on Twitter @HadleighPolice. Finally, from all officers and staff at Hadleigh Police Station we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful, prosperous New Year. Until next month, PCSO 3173 Julia Bignell, Hadleigh SNT, Magdalen Road, Hadleigh IP7 5AD Email: hadleigh.snt@suffolk.pnn.police.uk For emergency calls 999 / non-emergency calls 101
The Suffolk energy-from-waste facility has won two more national awards – one for the building and the other for the team running it – and is in line for a third. The Peel People’s Cup is awarded by the CIWM (Chartered Institution of Wastes Management) to the best operating team of the year. It is recognition that a successful waste operation is heavily dependent on its staff – the people at the sharp end who play such a critical role in the success of the operation. Plant manager Paul Leighton said: “We have won a number of awards for different aspects of this project, from its design and construction to its many environmental features, which help make it one of the greenest buildings in the country. But a fantastic building is nothing without a great team to run it. In our first year of operation we met or exceeded all of our targets, and that’s down to the great staff we have here. I am delighted this superb team effort has been recognised with this national award.” Last month the site, which was designed by Grimshaw, won the top prize for sustainability in the Blueprint Awards 2016, which celebrate the very best in world architecture and design. The site was one of eight short-listed, including the Theatre Royal in York, the refurbishment of a building at the University of Brighton and projects in Malaysia, Denmark and Australia. It is also a regional finalist in this year’s Civic Trust Awards, which recognise outstanding architecture, planning and design in the built environment. A total of 16 buildings from the eastern region are included in the regional finalists list including two colleges in Cambridge and a hospital in Welwyn Hatfield. All regional finalists go through to the national/international competition, with winners being announced on December 15. USEFUL NUMBERS Site offices: 01473 839149 To book a visit: 01473 836812 Environment Agency: 0800 807060
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Route 5 Town/village Location MIP/5A Sproughton Church Lane MIP/5B Sproughton Wild Man MIP/5C Bramford St Mary’s Close MIP/5D Bramford Paper Mill Lane MIP/5E Great Blakenham, Chequers MIP/5F Great Blakenham, Blue Leighs Mobile Home Park, MIP/5G Baylham Post Box MIP/5H Claydon Crown MIP/5I Claydon Edinburgh Gardens MIP/5J Barham Bacon Road MIP/5K Bramford Packard Place DATES: December 20, January 17
Time 9.10-9.25am 9.30-9.45am 9.50-10.05am 10.10-10.25am 10.35-1055am 11-11.15am 11.25-11.45am 11.55am-1pm 2.05-2.20pm 2.25-3.50pm 4-4.30pm
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Do you have a desire to make a difference? Care your way to a career If you think a career in care may be for you, a family member or a friend, please email carejobsinsuffolk@suffolk.gov.uk to receive an information pack and find out how to apply for jobs across the county and in your area.
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OUT & ABOUT HADLEIGH COMMUNITY CHOIR’S WINTER CONCERT 2016
Hadleigh Community Choir will present its annual winter concert at 7.30pm on Saturday, December 3 in Hadleigh United Reformed Church, Market Place, Hadleigh. Tickets are now on sale (£8 each, children under 12 free) from Keith Avis Newsagents and The Idler bookshop in Hadleigh High Street. The choir will be singing a mix of songs and carols with additional performances by choir soloists. We will again be inviting our audience to join in a Christmas carol sing-along; words will be included in the programmes. After the concert everybody is welcome to the ‘afterglow’ in the Ansell Room with wine, soft drinks and festive fare, all included in the ticket price. There will also be an opportunity to enter our now famous and popular prize gift draw. A proportion of profits will be shared between The Christmas Present Trust and Hadleigh Dementia Action Alliance. We look forward to seeing you there. For more information call Josie or Nik: 01473 824462
SPROUGHTON SENIOR CITIZENS CLUB Unfortunately, last month’s report did not appear in the Sproughton and Burstall edition of In Touch due to a rare error by the editor, for which her apology was gladly accepted. The mystery outing on October 12 again had problems. There were too many calls picking up passengers, taking over two hours to reach Felixstowe, where the driver had to take a two-hour rest to avoid exceeding his driving limit before proceeding to Southwold. True, there was a diversion on the return journey, but the coach didn’t reach Bramford until 6.45pm, one and three-quarters of an hour behind schedule. If similar trips are planned for next year the club will hire a small coach, picking up only club passengers or their guests. The final outing of 2016 is to see Christmas Matinee Nostalgia at The Corn Exchange at 2.30pm on Monday, December 12. Transport by shared taxi has been arranged for the eight members and three paying guests attending. Twelve members have taken up the option of lunch at Sproughton Wild Man at 12.30pm on the same day as an alternative. The last club meeting of 2016 will be held on Wednesday, December 21. Members are requested to bring a plate of sandwiches or nibbles and to wear a party hat. I will supply the sherry, soft drinks and music. The first club meeting of 2017 will be held at the church hall on January 4 at 2pm. The annual New Year’s Lunch will be held on Wednesday, January 18 at noon. The venue and any further details will be announced at the club when known and also published in the January edition of In Touch. A normal club meeting will take place after lunch. Members are requested to save used postage stamps for charity and pass them to Betty Game. Please leave a margin around each stamp. The committee and members of Sproughton Senior Citizens’ Club wish all readers a happy and warm Christmas. John Bates
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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS COUNTRYSIDE WALKS The group went to Blacksmiths Corner in Belstead for the Sunday walk in November. The tress and bracken were just beginning to change colour and there were quite a few people out enjoying the autumn air. For the midweek walk the weather was changeable and several of the group decided not to go Felixstowe as the rain began to come down. Four hardy people met at Manor End, put up their umbrellas and walked along the prom to the pier café. Half way along the sun came out. The next walks will be on Sunday, December 11, meeting at Faerland at 2.15pm for a local walk. For the midweek walk, please meet at the church at 10am on Tuesday, December 20, destination possibly Felixstowe.
JIGSAW PRE-SCHOOL SPROUGHTON The children are very busy with Christmas activities, rehearsing for the nativity play and getting very excited about the Christmas party. We are all hoping that Santa can find time in his very busy schedule to pop in and see us. Jigsaw is open from 8am-3.25pm each weekday during term time, offering quality care, learning and fun for children from age two to school age. If you are interested and would like to find out what we can offer you and your child, or to book a space for your child, please contact either Rosemary or Sharon on 01473 745716 or email info@jigsawsproughton. org.uk and we will pleased to help. We accept two, three and four year government funding including the ‘golden tickets’ for two year olds. We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the staff and committee at Jigsaw.
CLAYDON PRE-SCHOOL The children are all getting into the festive spirit with lots of activities going on. They are enjoying lots of Christmas themed activities as well as practising their singing and talking for their Christmas Nativity. They are all getting really excited for December 25 and looking forward to a well-earned break. Our Christmas Nativity is taking place on Wednesday, December 7 and the children will be able to have lots of fun at their Christmas Party on Wednesday, December 16 from 4-6pm. A big thank you to everyone who supported our Christmas Fayre on Saturday, November 12; a great time was had by all. Also, a big thank you to everyone who helped organise such a great event. The pre-school is open Monday to Friday from 9am-3.30pm during term time. Children can start from the age of two until they go to Reception. Session fees are £9.60 and we offer a lunchclub (noon-12.30pm) for £1.60. We are happy to accept childcare vouchers and we offer two-year funded places for any eligible children. We also run a holiday club in the Easter and summer holidays for two to eight year olds. For further information contact the administrator, Lisa Read: 01473 831648 / admin@claydonpreschool.co.uk
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CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL Our annual WOW Week took place at the end of October and was very rewarding for all year groups. Year 7 had a fabulous time at camp, taking part in adventurous activities such as the high ropes and assault course as well as art, science and drama activities, all designed to build confidence and encourage creativity, curiosity and teamwork. Years 8-10 impressed us all with their talent, fresh ideas and commitment to their film based enterprise tournament. In teams of 15, students planned, produced and pitched a film trailer of their choosing. Guest judges and experts in the film industry were invited in to support the event and choose an overall winner of the prestigious WOW Week Cup. Students had to assign themselves roles and were scored on innovation and vision, teamwork, quality of approach to the task and their results. I would like to thank the University of Suffolk, Suffolk New College, Dan Theophani, Camera on Films and local filmmakers Sam Travis and Ana Garcia Rico whose support was vital in helping this event to be the success it was. Year 11 demonstrated great maturity and focus, impressing our business guests and the outside agencies they visited during WOW Week, preparing them for the next step of their education/ training. They spent a day at a college/sixth form of their choice, a day at the Suffolk Skills Show at Trinity Park and a day in school listening to talks from guest speakers and completing application forms and CVs in preparation for a Learning about Work Day on Wednesday, December 14. Well done to everyone for their positivity and hard work over the three days. I am pleased that Claydon High School can develop innovative approaches to teaching and learning and I hope to be able to provide more stimulating experiences beyond the classroom that engage, excite and challenge students. Now that the dark nights are upon us and we are moving swiftly into the festive season, I hope you will be able to join us at our Christmas concert, A Very Merry Christmas, on Tuesday, December 13 at 7pm (tickets on sale at our reception). Our talented students are busy preparing some wonderful vocal and instrumental pieces for your enjoyment. The PTA is also holding a quiz night on Thursday, December 8, 7-9pm. For more details, please email Rebecca: becca48@ntlworld.com GCSE Drama students are busy rehearsing for their Christmas panto which will tour to local residential care homes, French students are looking forward to visiting the Christmas Markets in Lille (despite the 3.15am start) and the whole school is currently busy creating fabulous Christmas hampers which will be donated to a local charity for the homeless. 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. Please telephone my PA, Mrs J Pedersen, to book a place: 01473 836110 Finally, I would like to thank staff, parents, carers, governors and the wider community for their support this term and wish everyone a Happy Christmas. I look forward to keeping you updated with all our news in the New Year. Headteacher Sarah Skinner
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SPORT
PLAYING FIELD NEWS Here’s the latest update on what the Playing Field Management Committee (PFMC) have been doing recently. Highlights as follows: Maintenance We’ve purchased (and hopefully installed by the time you read this) a new litter bin to replace the one that was set alight. The new bin is more in keeping with the existing ‘field furniture’, but if you look closely you’ll see it’s made out of recycled materials (mainly old plastic), but you really wouldn’t know. It’s amazing to know that this type of specialist kit is made locally in Ipswich by Realise Futures CIC (the new name for Whitehouse Enterprises). Having seen what they make in the way of garden furniture and how different it is, it’s well worth giving them a look and seeing what else they do: www.realisefutures.org That wasn’t a planned ‘plug’, but honestly they were very helpful and they do good things, so why not! The damaged sign on the front gate has been replaced. We realise vandalism is one of the occupational hazards of running a playing field, but hopefully it will stay as intended for a while now. Clubhouse and changing room development No change from last month. Although we’re doing things in the background, expect it to be quiet on the update front till the new year. Sproughton Club update The last Super Saturday of the year will be Saturday, December 10. The club will open from 7pm as usual. All welcome. Please note, there will be no club night in January. Volunteers – the big ask (as usual!) As you’ll by now know, the playing field is run by Sproughton residents for the benefit of the village by way of the Playing Field Management Committee. Lending your support would be really helpful, so if you think you can help please get in contact. Damian Lavington, chairman, PFMC 01473 809512
CLAYDON FC New pitch opened After many months of hard work by the volunteer team, we opened our new Under 7’s and Under 8’s pitch at Blue Circle on Saturday, October 29. Councillors John Whitehead and James Caston took the first kick-off before a number of superb games from the Under 8 squad after which the Under 7s took to the pitch to show their skills. Claydon FC would like to thank Claydon and Whitton Parish Council for the initial grant for this work, those who attended the summer training camp which raised funds, Will at Parker Pitches for his hard work and, of course, the many volunteers at the club who raked dirt, removed stones and pulled weeds. This is another huge step forward in our facilities at Blue Circle. Clubhouse opening The revamped and revitalised Claydon FC clubhouse was formally opened on October 29 and the phase one facilities were put to their first use at the senior game in the afternoon. A newly refurbished common area and kitchen have allowed us to host post match food at the club and make the game day experience even better. The space will also allow for the junior teams to host awards days and other communal activities. A huge thank you to the Suez Community Trust for the grant for this work which has seen the building transformed and will provide a fantastic environment for all club members. Summary of Senior Section match notes from roving reporter KK League Div 1, September 24 v Old Newton We showed glimpses of what we are capable of and the tempo of the game changed when we introduced Driver. Within five minutes Blackman
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SPROUGHTON BOWLS CLUB We held our AGM on October 25, a full report of which will be available soon at: www.sproughtonbowlsclub.com The meeting selected new officers – Club President Kate Sarginson, Chairperson David Biggs and Club Captain June Laws – as well as a new management committee. By the time you read this we will have played the first of our winter indoor friendly matches, but more have been arranged with the full list as follows: November 26: Ipswich and District December 4: Colchester January 14: Sudbury February 4: Mid-Suffolk February 18: Sole Bay A pre-Christmas social evening has also been arranged for December 3. John Thompson is progressing with plans for the 2017 summer tour to Weymouth which departs for eight nights on August 30. John is still looking for a few more people to join the tour. Please contact him direct or email: sproughtonbowlsclub@outlook.com Merry Christmas to all. scored a diving header making it 1-0 at HT. We pushed on with Kirby scoring making it a final score of 2-0. Junior Cup First Round, October 1 v Barham Athletic There are lots of connections between the two clubs and there was a large vocal crowd in attendance, but as a consequence of the game we found ourselves £120 worse off following a number of bookings and sending off. The 10 remaining lads on the pitch were a huge credit to the club, but we lost in extra time 1-2. League Div 1, October 8 v Benhall This was a tough game and after initially going 2-0 up we ended sharing the points with a 2-2 draw. Reserves, October 8 v Felixstowe Rangers Primary Cup Brillo’s young side performed very well, however run out 2-0 losers. League Div 1, October 15 v Hoxne Another very tough match against table toppers Hoxne saw us weather an early storm to win 3-2, gratefully taking all three points. Reserves v Benhall Res, October 15 Our Reserves went down 2-1 to Benhall with young Aidan Brame breaking his arm and the Benhall keeper breaking his collar bone. We wish both a speedy recovery. League Div 1, October 22 v Trimley Missing some key players, we still managed to name a half decent starting 11. It became clear early on that we were dominant and went in at half-time 3-1. Rudge fired in second and our fourth in the second half for us to take the points with a 4-2 victory. www.claydon-fc.co.uk www.facebook.com/ClaydonFootballClub
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CHURCH NEWS THE NORTH SAMFORD BENEFICE Sproughton with Burstall, Copdock with Washbrook and Belstead & Bentley with Tattingstone For parish queries please contact: The Rev Annette Shannon, The Rectory, Glebe Close, Sproughton IP8 3BQ revannettes@aol.co.uk / 01473 807674 Benefice Administrator Hayley Purnell
northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com / 07713863023 Dear Friends December is probably my busiest month of the year. I enjoy getting ready for Christmas, but I know some of my friends hate it. I love the preparation work, all the special services and the mass of social events. I look forward to the children’s nativities, delight in the community spirit, particularly the anticipation at the midnight service, and even welcome the challenge of completing the jobs at home ahead of the big day. I am excited by the sight of Christmas decorations, the carols, the tastes, the smells, the sounds, the sights and the feelings of Christmas. My special joy this year will be sharing Christmas with our first grandchild, Isaac. It’s a time for sharing and joyfulness tinged only by the shadows of empty seats of people no longer able to gather with us and help us to celebrate. We often hear predictions about the decline of organised religion, but at Christmas pews and chairs get filled. More than a million people attended a Church of England Christmas Service last year. In the six small churches in this benefice the numbers of attendees doubled, if not trebled from a normal Sunday congregation. And we suddenly saw the church as it actually could be. The energy was wonderful. I think people who come to these services are genuinely happy to be back in church and that some even promise themselves that they will come back again more regularly in the New Year. But by the time it gets round to that other things are in their minds. What brings people into church at Christmas? In many ways it is probably a cultural thing with singing carols as much part of Christmas as mince pies and Christmas trees. There is also perhaps a sense of belonging originating from the familiar nativity story and other Bible passages. But I also think that there is a sense of wonder deep in all of us, even in those who don’t believe. Ambivalence towards the Christmas story becomes a reflection of a spectrum of belief, rather than people simply being believers and non-believers. It is also true that many of our parishioners have a real relationship with their local church even if they don’t regularly attend or profess to a faith. The lack of regular attendance is sad because it means there is very limited opportunity for a framework of discussion around faith, but it is a matter of some rejoicing that people still want that touchstone – they want to come back, even if it’s only temporary at Christmas. Whatever brings people to church at this season I am delighted and hope that we can all enjoy a warm atmosphere, the awesome architecture, vibrant singing and a sense of belonging… after all the Christmas story is all about gathering as a family and of welcome. Dear God, please bless this Christmas season with peace, joy, and love. May the happiness of Baby Jesus’ coming be felt in every home. Amen With love and prayers The Rev Annette Wishing all our parishioners a peaceful Christmas and Happy New Year Blessings from North Samford Benefice www.facebook.com/northsamfordbenefice Sproughton Christmas Fayre: Sunday, December 11 in Tithe Barn from noon Copdock Christmas Fayre: Saturday, December 3 in the Church Room from 10am Grand Draw, cakes and pastries, jams and preserves, books, Christmas gifts, decorations, refreshments and mulled wine. Proceeds to St Peter’s Church, Copdock.
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CHRISTMAS SERVICES Bentley Christingle with a visit from Father Christmas, December 4, 10am Copdock Nativity, December 11 at 10am in St Peter’s Church Belstead Carols, December 18, 6pm Copdock Carols, December 18, 6pm Tattingstone Carols, December 18, 6pm Sproughton Carols, December 18, 6.30pm Bentley Nine Lessons and Carols, December 18, 10am Burstall Carols, December 18, 4.30pm Sproughton Nativity, December 24, 3pm Bentley Crib Service, December 24, 3pm Tattingstone Crib and Christingle Service, December 24, 4pm Copdock Midnight Mass, 11.30pm Sproughton Midnight Mass, 11.30pm Tattingstone Midnight Mass, 11.30pm FROM THE REGISTERS Baptisms Crystal Whiting-Woodhouse, Sproughton George Blackwell, Copdock Weddings Alfred Taylor and Sophie Tibbitts, Belstead Burial of Ashes David Prangle, Bentley Terence Rose, Copdock Keith Marston, Tattingstone DIARY DATES DECEMBER 1 Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm Bentley Coffee & Company, 10am 3 Copdock Christmas Market, 10am-12.30pm Tattingstone Morning Market, 10am-noon 4 Bentley Christingle, 10am 6 Ministry meeting, 7.30pm 7 Bentley Home Communions, 10am 10 Sproughton Monthly Market, 10am 11 Sproughton Christmas Fayre, Tithe Barn, noon Burstall Christingle, 9.30am Copdock Nativity, 10am 15 Bentley Mulled Wine and Carols, 7.30pm 18 Burstall Carols, 4.30pm Sproughton Carol Service, 6.30pm Tattingstone Carol Service, 6pm Belstead Carol Service, 6pm Copdock Carol Service, 6pm Bentley Carol Service, 10am 19 Sproughton Christmas Experience, 9.15am 24 Sproughton Nativity, 3pm Bentley Crib Service, 3pm Tattingstone Carols and Crib Service, 4pm JANUARY 4 Bentley Home Communions, 10am 5 Bentley Coffee & Company, 10am Burstall Community Lunch, 12.30pm Epiphany School Service, Sproughton 14 Benefice planning meeting, Burstall Village Hall, 8.30am 18 Copdock Home Communions, 10am 25 Burstall Approval of Accounts 28 Wedding Preparation Day, 9.45am-3pm Continued Over... Sproughton Burns Night, 7pm
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CHURCH NEWS SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE December 4 8am 9.30am 10am 10am 10am 11am
Copdock Burstall Bexntley Copdock Tattingstone Sproughton
Holy Communion Holy Communion Family Service Morning Prayer Holy Communion Holy Communion
December 11 Noon 9.30am 10am 10am 6pm
Sproughton Burstall Copdock Bentley Tattingstone
Christmas Fayre Christingle Nativity Holy Communion Evensong
December 18 10am 10am 10am 11am 4.30pm 6pm 6pm 6pm 6.30pm
Belstead Copdock Bentley Sproughton Burstall Belstead Copdock Tattingstone Sproughton
Holy Communion Simply Sunday Carol Service Holy Communion Carols Carols Carols Carols Carols
December 24: Christmas Eve 3pm Bentley 3pm Sproughton 4pm Tattingstone 11.30pm Copdock 11.30pm Sproughton 11.30pm Tattingstone
Crib Service Nativity Christingle and Crib Service Midnight Mass Midnight Mass Midnight Mass
December 25: Christmas Day 9.30am Burstall 10am Bentley 11am Sproughton
Holy Communion Holy Communion Holy Communion
January 1 10am
Belstead
Benefice Service
January 8 9.15am 9.30am 10am 10am 6pm
Sproughton Burstall Copdock Bentley Tattingstone
Croissant Church Family Service Holy Communion Holy Communion Evensong
Church letters and copy for the January edition by December 4 please to Hayley Purnell: northsamfordbenefice@gmail.com
CHRISTMAS CHURCH DECORATIONS We shall be decorating the church for Christmas on Friday, December 16 and Saturday 17 from 10am-1pm each day. There is a list of the places to be decorated on the board in the porch. All help will be very welcome. Doreen Bradbury
VILLAGE CONTACTS LIST
Details for organisations and activities in Sproughton Allotments
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Parish Council
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Almshouses (Cooper Trust)
Ken Sheppard
01473 743122
Parish Council Chairman
Simon Curl
01473 747114
Badminton Club
June Jackaman
01473 745246
Parochial Church Council
Jan Hart (sec)
01473 740434
Jean Mardon
01473 461568
Playing Field Committee
Damian Lavington
01473 809512
Burial Ground
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Lunch Club
Sheri Walne
01473 602717
Bowls Club Chairman
Mike Snell
01473 748848
Quilters
Julie Hodges
01473 226004
Brownies
Debra Last
01473 741773
Ramblers
Doreen Bradbury
01473 210008
Carpet Bowls Club
Bob Jones
01473 744093
01473 740629
Children’s Play Area
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Reading Room and Caretaker’s Gwen Moore House Charity
Church Hall Booking
Jill Quadling
01473 464336
Senior Citizens Club
John Bates
01473 743476
Community Shop
Rosalind Lavington 01473 747768
Sports & Social Club
Mrs G Studd
01473 747017
Craft Group
Julie Hodges
01473 226004
Football Club
Mrs G Studd
01473 747017
Footpath Warden
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Jigsaw Pre-school
Rosemary Laflin
01473 745716
Millennium Green Trust
Ken Seager 01473 741410 07578 552324 / keseager@sky.com
Mother and Toddler
Sam Pateman-Gee
www.keepingintouchwith.com/sproughton
01473 464595
Sproughton CEVC Primary School, Karen Read (head) 01473 742182 Suffolk Guides
June Webb
01473 742778
Tennis Club
John Tallent
01473 402307
Tithe Barn Bookings
Sue Frankis
01473 463852
Tower Captain (church bells)
Ralph Earey
01473 743812
Tree Warden
Sue Frankis (clerk)
01473 463852
Village History Recorder
Doreen Bradbury
01473 210008
23
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