In Touch with Westerfield December 2019

Craciun Fericit

Feliz Navidad

In Touch

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with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham

Mubarak

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Sung Tan Chuk Ha

Volume 10 • Issue No. 1 • DECEMBER 2019

uon Natale

Milad Mubarak

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Merry Christmas

Fröhliche Weihnachten

Glaedelig Ju Gleðileg jól

Chuc Mung Giang Sinh

Rôômsaid Jôule

Boas Festas

Nollaig Shona Joyeux Noël Wesolych Swiat Sretan Bozic Merii Kurisumasu Zalig Kerstfeest

Lesimkha Gëzuar Krishlindjet

Zalig

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In Touch online:

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR I’m going to return to a previous subject this month because it’s constantly on my mind. Every time I drive, every time I walk down a busy street or stand in a queue, and very occasionally at home, I’m struck by how impatient we have become. Almost everyone (and I include myself here) is so terribly busy, we seem to live our lives at a rate of knots. It’s utterly exhausting, but also brings less attractive qualities – such as insensitivity and selfishness – to the fore.

This morning I witnessed three incidents of poor behaviour – one by a driver outside my son’s school, the second at the Co-op where a terribly important person huffed and puffed in obvious annoyance behind a lady who was struggling to find the correct coins to pay for her coffee, and the third at a pedestrian crossing when not one but two drivers ignored the couple waiting to cross. Not major incidents I know, and I don’t intend to draw major conclusions based on one bad morning, but am I the only one who thinks we have become a little less caring of others in our day-to-day lives?

NEWS STOP! CAMPAIGN SEEKS POSITIVE SOLUTIONS The public consultation on proposals to build a bypass north of Ipswich has closed, having garnered an impressive 4,000 responses. The 500 people who attended the march through Ipswich to oppose the road have packed their placards and drums away. But the Stop! Campaign has certainly not stopped!

The petition against the road, which would devastate precious countryside and hasten climate change, continues to grow. The first 5,000 signatures were presented to Parliament by MP Dr Dan Poulter in October, but many thousand more are needed. If you have their permission, you can add your friends’ and family’s names to the online petition (even if they don’t live locally). Why not send them an email today?

The Stop! Campaign has taken out full-page adverts in both the East Anglian Daily Times and the Ipswich Star making the case for alternatives to the road. Meanwhile Birketts Solicitors in Ipswich have agreed to represent the campaign in the legal fight against the bypass: there is an enormous amount to challenge.

Often it’s the little things which make the difference, a polite wave when a driver gives way, a smile and a thank-you to a shop assistant, holding a shop or office door open, being a little kinder to a driver who may be unfamiliar with the road or just not as quick to react…

My granddad was known to say: “Please and thank you will take you around the world.” It’s not entirely realistic, but the connotation is clear. Christmas can be a hectic time and the extra stress and expense may create additional frustrations when we’re out and about, but let’s resist the urge to snap back.

What’s five minutes either way? You’ll get there in the end and do it without getting stressed or upsetting someone along the way.

Kindness is a quality we all need to embrace a little bit more and it’s entirely free to give. Perhaps my granddad wasn’t so far off the mark after all.

And on that note, my colleagues and I here at Mansion House Publishing wish you and yours the very best for the Christmas Season and the New Year.

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins T: 01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: sharon@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.

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T: 01473 400380 E: advertising@intouchnews.co.uk DISTRIBUTION

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ColourPlan Print: 01473 400379 E: steve@colourplan.co.uk 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 Westerfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd as part of the In Touch series of magazines.

Several events have been held, most recently a grand jumble sale in Hasketon where a wonderful turnout helped to raise £1,800 in campaign funds. Regular drinks evenings are planned too: keep an eye on the website.

The next phase of the campaign aims to Start! Ipswich Moving by finding real, sustainable solutions to the traffic issues in and around the town. Our villages hold such a wealth of talent and energy that a 20-strong research team is now investigating these solutions in detail. They would love to hear your thoughts; email: research.stopbypass@gmail.com To all of the volunteers, researchers, marchers, petition-signers and jumblerummagers who make the campaign possible, thank you – together we can Stop! this road and protect our precious environment, both local and global.

The Stop! Team

In Touch Titles • S towmarket & Stowupland • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew • Melton & Woodbridge • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall & Warren Heath • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit • Needham Market & The Creetings •S hotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton & Woolverstone • Martlesham • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford & Stratford St Mary • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone & Washbrook • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead •W esterfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe

Wed 4 December is the advertising and editorial deadline for the January edition

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS LARGE OR SMALL Book your stall (£7.50 each) today for the Barley Mow Christmas Fayre at Witnesham on December 22 by calling: 01473 785395 The fayre will open at noon with Santa’s Grotto to keep the children happy, a variety of stalls for last minute Christmas presents or extra treats, food and horse and cart rides.

BOXING DAY WALK This year’s traditional Witnesham/Swilland Boxing Day Walk will this year leave from the Lower Rec car park, near the Barley Mow, at 11am. Everyone is welcome as are dogs, on a lead please, and the walk will be roughly 60 to 90 minutes long on a circular route of local paths and tracks. Those who wish may retire to the Barley Mow afterwards where there will be a warm welcome.

Please make sure you wear adequate footwear as it’s likely to be a bit wet and muddy in places. If in doubt about the weather or any other question, just ring me.

Jerry Hindle: 01473 785669

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NEWS ASHBOCKING NEWS

RECORDER’S REPORT

The timing of this edition should be helpful. If you read it within a few days of it being delivered, you won’t have missed the Ashbocking Christmas Bazaar in the church on December 7 from 10am to 3.30pm. For newcomers, or busy people who haven’t investigated the area, the church is situated on Church Road, off Hemingstone Road, turning to the right, almost opposite the BMW garage.

Having spent time in Tenerife during October and the beginning of November, I have little to report. Certainly the firework display again took place at the Barley Mow and as far as I know everything went well. I will record on actual numbers once I have the information at hand.

If you missed breakfast, or don’t want to prepare lunch, coffee, tea and soft drinks will be on offer, accompanied with yummy savouries and cakes. Also this year we are doing hot soup with a roll. That’s lunch sorted!

There will be loads of items to get you opening your purses and wallets: toys, books, nearly new condition goods, hand-made gifts, Christmas decorations, bric-a-brac, jewellery and art work. There’s a special tombola this year – not to be missed! We’d just love to see everyone from Ashbocking there and, of course, folk from nearby villages and beyond. It will be a ‘not too early start’ for your Christmas 2019!

This month will see Ashbocking parishioners involved with the Neighbourhood Plan and consultations regarding the planning application for 28 houses at Green Farm. I hope, if you had views on either topic, you attended the meetings on Wednesday 6 November. It is also advisable to make your opinions known to the planning authority.

Speeding through our village continues. We have 30mph signs throughout, and a sign that lights up telling you about your actual speed. It may be time to reintroduce the ‘speed gun.’ This will require volunteers, training and commitment. If you are interested in getting this up and running again, please contact the parish clerk either by email or by phone.

No volunteers, no speed gun! At this point can I repeat the request from our parish chair, and one that has been made on several occasions in the past, – please do not allow your visitors to park vehicles with wheels on the footpath. Out of common decency, if nothing else, it needs to be possible to push a pram, buggy or wheelchair along a footpath.

Our thanks to all involved with Halloween this year. The parents seemed to enjoy it as much as the children! At least one household provided apples this year. Could this be the start of a ‘Healthier Halloween?’ (Humbug!)

I would like to thank everyone who gave so generously during my early collection call for the poppies. I don’t normally call during the third week of October and promise not to be so early next year!

What I can confirm is that the Barley Players will hopefully be performing a pantomime at the end of May next year depending on whether the play can be casted. The auditions will likely be Thursday 16 and Monday 20 January with casting made the same night and rehearsals starting the following Monday. Confirmation of these dates will be published in the next edition of In Touch. The pantomime is Cinderella Twist with a subtitle of Girl from the West County.

We will be looking for actors, singers, musicians, sound and lighting experts, stage builders, costume dressers, make up, back stage, front of stage help, etc. Get involved, the am dram club needs your help and if you get involved I’m sure you will enjoy it. Not acted before, don’t worry you will be a natural.

Not sung in public before? We can help.

Look out for the dates and come along. I can guarantee you will not regret it!

Steve Henley, Witnesham Village Recorder By the time you read this, Swilland and Witnesham Parish Council will have met to discuss whether or not to follow Little Bealings’ lead in deciding that it no longer has confidence in its elected county councillor, Robin Vickers.

This is as a result of his decision to support a route for the Ipswich Northern Bypass in opposition to the views of his electorate.

I can record that Mr Vickers did not attend our meeting to discuss the proposal. Whether our parish council, and indeed all other parish councils, follow the lead made by Little Bealings remains to be seen. I will be recording the results of that discussion in the next edition of In Touch.

Steve Henley

Liz Stegman

CODDENHAM ENTREPRENEUR LAUNCHES FORTNUM & MASON FOR DOGS A Coddenham woman has told how her devotion to her elderly dog inspired a luxury gift service for pampered pooches.

Karen Rhodes was watching a TV show about upmarket department store Fortnum & Mason and realised pet owners might be searching for similar for their animals. The 41-year-old was already running her dog walking company, Suffolk Dog Services, but was considering changing her business to spend more time with Collie Cross Bailey (14).

She said: “I was watching and thinking about the luxury hampers Fortnum & Mason create for humans and how there might be many dog owners who would like the same. I googled ‘luxury dog hampers’ and there was nothing out there, so I decided to create them myself.

It meant I could care for Bailey at home as he became less active. “He means the world to me and I wanted to spend the time we have together making his life as full as possible. Launching the hampers in October

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means I’m still doing something I’m passionate about, helping dogs, while supporting Bailey.

“And as my chief product taster, Bailey gives the paws up to all the treats and goodies going into the hampers so he’s really happy about my new business too.”

Karen researched and sourced safe, healthy and natural products from other independent UK based businesses as it was important that her hampers contained the very best treats. Prices start at £35 and each environmentally friendly gift box has a selection of treats, accessories, enrichment toys and grooming products, and all items are re-usable or recyclable.

Karen, who lives with husband Bill, is still walking dogs, but her new venture means more time at home with Bailey. She’s also hoping to support animal, veterans and services charities as her husband was in the army for 22 years.

Karen said: “I recently donated a hamper to the Animal Star Awards which recognised people doing extraordinary things for animals and the veterans and services charities are very close to my heart. While the hampers are for people who want to pamper their pets, it’s lovely to be able to do something to recognise the unconditional love they give us too.”

To find out more about Karen’s hampers, visit: www.luxurydoghampers.co.uk

In Touch online:

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NEWS A WINTER WONDERLAND CONCERT On Friday 13 December, Suffolk Constabulary Male Voice Choir and the Birkbeck Singers present Winter Wonderland, a concert featuring winter themed melodies, light choral and traditional songs. The concert, which is in aid of ActivLives and Fresh Start New Beginnings, is at the Methodist Church, Black Horse Lane, Ipswich IP1 2EF at 7.30pm. Tickets costing £10 each are available from: 01449 672600 / scmvc@scwade.eclipse.co.uk For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/y5bneldu

WESTERFIELD CLUBS & ORGANISATIONS Art Class A weekly class for newcomers and improvers. To book a place or for more information contact Lisa Ann Puhlhofer: 01473 878734 / 07834 280287 Westerfield Bowls Club Members enjoy playing outdoors from April through to the end of September. Our teams compete in local leagues as well as playing friendly games against other clubs. For further information contact Tony Baker: 01473 411347 Village Coffee Mornings Every Wednesday at 10am. Everyone is welcome.

Westerfield & District Gardening Club Meets at 7.15pm on the first Wednesday of the month • December 4: The Perennial Mr Potter with Brian Turlow & Christmas Buffet • No meeting in January

LIVE NATIVITY AT OTLEY COLLEGE Wednesday 11 December, 6/6.30-7.30pm Celebrate Christmas at Otley – experience the sights, sounds and story of Christmas complete with live nativity, music, refreshments and family-friendly fun.

Dress-up warm and bring yourselves and your wellies for an outdoor celebration of Christmas – see the sheep and other animals and smell the straw of the stable as we re-tell the Christmas Story with a difference.

Hot chocolate and marshmallows for all!

Suitable for all ages – everyone welcome but limited seating and it may well be cold!

Free entry, free parking and free refreshments.

Otley College, Charity Lane, Otley, Suffolk, IP6 9EY (Sat Nav Users use IP6 9NE)

CHRISTMAS EVENTS TALITHA KOUM At 7.30pm (not 6pm as previously advertised) on Thursday 12 December, Talitha Koum invite you to celebrate Christmas with carols, Christmas songs and short readings at a joyful service including a performance by Upbeat!

Ladies Choir.

On Wednesday 18 December, Talitha Koum will celebrate Christmas with carols, soup and mince pies from 5-6.30pm. All welcome. Drop in at any time.

ASHBOCKING, SWILLAND & WITNESHAM WI Come along to our December meeting for a talk entitled Father Christmas, Myths and Mistletoe by Mike Wabe.

There will also be some seasonal nibbles and Christmas tipple! The monthly members’ competition asks for ‘A Father Christmas’. Lots of scope!

We look forward to another WI year with the 2020 programme and a new president at the helm. Pat Bloomfield will give up her post at the November meeting after three years’ presidential duties. We give her a big thank you for looking after members so well.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 11 December is at 7.30pm in Witnesham Village Hall.

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For further details contact Michele Doick (252330) or Barry Reeve (251843).

Beavers, Cubs & Scouts 1st Westerfield Scout Group was founded in 1955. Using the village hall as its headquarters the group consists of: Beaver Colony Thursday, 5.45-6.45pm Boys and girls, 6-8 years old Beaver Leader: Jenny Kent, 01473 218501 / jennyk.kent1@gmail.com Cub Pack Tuesday, 6.45-8pm Boys and girls, 8-10½ years Cub Leader: Joan Gibson, 01473 785510 / gibsonjoan785@gmail.com Scout Troop Friday, 6.50-9pm Boys and girls, 10½-14 years Scout Leader: Peter Runnacles, 1473 785298 / peter@runnacles.plus.com If your child is interested in joining us please use the contact form on our website from where your enquiry will be forwarded to the appropriate leader: www.westerfieldscouts.org.uk Westerfield WI Lively meetings on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30pm.

• December 12: Christmas Party New members and visitors are always welcome. For details please contact Janet Phillimore: 01473 415749 Pilates Monday from 10.30-11.30am and Wednesday from 6-7pm. Beginners welcome and equipment provided. Please contact Kat: 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com Chi Kung Tuesday from 2.15-4pm and Thursday from 7.15-9pm, £12 per class, suitable for all ages. Contact Sally Askew: 01394 384013 / sally_askew@hotmail.com Yoga Thursday from 9.40-11am. Eighty minutes of yoga stretches and relaxation for all. Contact Caroline Glason: caroline@still-yoga.co.uk / 01473 464204 / 07746 860380 Please note that there is now an online calendar to check availability.

For more information visit: www.westerfield-village.co.uk

In Touch online:

Here for you every hour of every day Meredith Greengrass Ground Floor, Station Yard, Needham Market

01449 798267 www.eastofengland.coop/funerals

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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB

IPSWICH & DISTRICT PHILATELIC SOCIETY

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.

November 20 was a member’s social night which consisted of a one page competition, a static display, a prize draw and a member’s bourse – buying and selling of members items no longer needed.

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.

All those present had a good chat about philately and their chosen collections.

This ranged from early GB to QEII Machins, from China to Czechoslovakia and from USA to Second World War Hungary inflation stamps.

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

Members seem to collect a vast and varied range of topics, so why not come and join us? Information can be found online or contact our secretary, Mike Smith: 01473 403904 / michaelsmith1949@gmail.com

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

This month we meet at Kesgrave War Memorial Community Hall on Wednesday 4 December from 1-5pm.

A local dealer will be available with her stock for you to add to your collections.

Refreshments will be available. www.ipswichphilatelic.uk

DO YOU PLAY AN INSTRUMENT?

ICUSTEPS SUPPORT GROUP

We have three bands: Ipswich Hospital Band, St Peter’s Band and Saints Community Band. Join us and make new friends.

Some instruments are available for hire.

We meet at Bluebird Lodge Community Hospital, 100 Mansbrook Boulevard, Ipswich IP3 9GJ from 6-8pm on December 4.

www.ipswichhospitalband.org.uk / info@ipswichhospitalband.org.uk St Peter’s by the Waterfront, College Street, Ipswich IP4 1BF

For critical care patients on the road to recovery

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

DIARY DATES FOR WITNESHAM, SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING All events take place in the village hall unless indicated otherwise.

Booking clerk: Mrs Anne Debenham, 01473 785798 WEEKLY EVENTS Mondays: Pilates Class from 7-8pm Tuesdays • Post Office at Witnesham Baptist Church, 12.30-4pm • Carpet Bowls Club from 7pm. Contact Mr Peter Elmy: 01473 785754 Wednesdays: Coffee, Conversation & Cake (3Cs) at Witnesham Baptist Church, 9.30-11.30am Thursdays • Post Office at Witnesham Baptist Church, 9am-12.30pm • Tai Chi Classes. Beginners’ class from 5.45-7.15pm and the regular class from 7.30-9.30pm. Contact Marc: 07860 471748 Fridays • Mums & Toddlers Group in Witnesham Baptist Church, 9.15-11.15am (term time only). Contact Mrs Jean Pearson: 01473 785478 • Pilates Class, 9.45-10.45am. Contact Kat: 07804 909083 / katspilates@live.com • Carpet Bowls from 2pm EVENTS IN DECEMBER Monday 2: Concert featuring Christine Laughlin’s piano and violin pupils in St Mary’s Church, Witnesham, 6.30pm. Retiring collection for charity.

Thursday 5: Village Voices meet in the Witnesham Baptist Church, 7.30pm.

No further meetings until 6 February.

Wednesday 18: Carols, soup and mince pies at the Hope Centre, Wash Lane, Witnesham, 5-6.30pm.

Thursday 19 • Mobile library visits the Green, Ashbocking, from 12.15-12.25pm.

• Join Village Voices to sing carols at Witnesham Nursing Home, 6.15pm start and Moon & Mushroom, c. 8pm.

Sunday 22: Carol Service at St Mary’s Church, Witnesham, 6pm.

Thursday 26: Boxing Day walk. Meet at 11am at the lower Recreation Ground in Witnesham. Wear stout shoes or boots. Dogs welcome.

FIND (Families in Need) Thank you to those who have already kindly donated boxes of biscuits or chocolates for FIND’s Christmas Hampers to be distributed to about 1,000 families who are in real need in our local communities.

It’s not too late to do so if you wish, but I should like to have them by Wednesday 4 December if at all possible to take to the centre in Hines Road, Ipswich. This will allow time to add your contributions to the food boxes, along with personal gifts, and then deliver them before Christmas. We shall be most grateful for any help you can give.

The Food Bank At last it’s good to be able to say that the newly refurbished Food Bank is now fully operational. On Saturday 9 November many of our volunteers helped to move the food from Hines Road to its site at Gainsborough Sports Centre on Brazier’s Wood Road, Ipswich. The building is larger than our previous one and this makes it easier for our volunteers to get on with their work.

Thursday 11: WI meets for their Christmas meeting with a talk by Mike Wabe on Father Christmas, Myths and Mistletoe, 7.30pm.

Our thanks go to so many groups and individuals: those who planned the refurbishment, Genesis PR for fundraising on our behalf, the suppliers of materials, the contractors and the many generous sponsors who have helped us over the last two years. Last, but not least, we are immensely grateful to East of England Co-op directors who have allowed us to stay at their premises in Hines Road until January so that we can complete our Christmas Hampers operation there once again this year.

Thursday 12: Talitha Koum’s Carols in Witnesham St Mary’s Church, 7.15pm

FIND Trustee Heather Cade, 5 Coopers Close, Witnesham / 01473 785464

Saturday 7: Swilland Church draw. From noon, soup and filled rolls available and various stalls. The draw will be at 1pm.

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In Touch online:

www.keepingintouchwith.com/westerfield

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OUT & ABOUT IPSWICH FLOWER CLUB CHRISTMAS DEMONSTRATION We would like to invite you to get in the mood for decorating your home with fresh flowers for the festive season. Our next meeting is on Monday 9 December when Brenda Tubb will present a demonstration entitled Another Fine Mess.

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 (01473 415749) or Stella Thornley (01473 711946).

The club meets regularly on the second Monday afternoon of the month except for January. We also have six Friday afternoon workshops during the year which are suitable for all standards.

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

On November 6 we enjoyed a lively and interesting talk by writer, lecturer and broadcaster Daniel Snowman on the impact the Hitler emigres had on British artistic and cultural life. The last talk before our winter break is Pantomime: A Very British Treat by Giles Ramsay on December 4. Giles is an independent theatre director and producer. He combines academic analysis with hands-on experience to bring a unique insight to the world of the theatre.

Our programme will resume on February 5 with a talk by Aliki Braine titled Same Old Same New. We meet at Tower Hall, Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew on the first Wednesday of most months. Meetings begin at 2pm and last about an hour, with refreshments available from 1.30-2pm. Guests and non-members are welcome provided we have available space. Exceptionally popular lectures will have a visitor limit of 20 so please contact Wendy Robbins in advance to check if there is available space: 01394 823807 For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

GIRLS HAVE FUN Are you aged between five and seven years?

Witnesham Rainbows meet on alternate Thursdays from 5.30-6.45pm in Witnesham Primary School.

Come and join us for crafts, cooking and lots of fun.

For further information contact Nyree: 07722 170394

GREAT BLAKENHAM OVER 50S CLUB Open to anyone of that age living in Great Blakenham and the surrounding area, we meet in Great Blakenham Parish Room on the second and fourth Wednesdays from 2-4pm. The £2 attendance fee includes the raffle and refreshments, and £1 extra when we have a game of bingo.

Our last meeting of the year is our Christmas meal on December 11 and we will reconvene on January 8, weather permitting of course. The programme for the new year hasn’t yet been finalised.

New members are always welcome so if you would like to come along and see what goes on we will be pleased to see you.

OTLEY & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB We meet at Otley Village Hall at 7.30pm on the first Monday of the month.

Monday 2 December: Christmas Horticultural Quiz with our patron, Matthew Tanton Brown All welcome; join up or just come along. Admission is £1.50 for members and £4 for non-members. Annual membership is £10. To find out more, contact either Phil Pollard (07880 627984) or Jill Hempstead (07967 012636).

THE CHRISTMAS GIFT OF TIME Christmas is a time of goodwill and giving back, so why not gift a little of your time over the festive season and put the magic back into someone’s Christmas this year?

Many charities need a little extra help during the festivities and they rely on a legion of brilliant volunteers. There are many different ways that you can help and volunteering doesn’t always mean a long term commitment or lots of hours per month.

WAYS YOU CAN VOLUNTEER Fundraising Fresh Start New Beginnings have Christmas collections taking place throughout December in Ipswich and need people who can give up an hour or more to help us bucket collect and pack bags for Christmas shoppers.

Helping Out with Christmas Events Suffolk MIND has various roles available during November and December at their head office, Quay Place in Ipswich. These include event planners/administrators – helping out with Christmas preparations for the various events they are holding, Father Christmas – the name says it all, and Christmas Elfs – to help Santa in his grotto.

Volunteer at a Food Bank Food banks provide an essential lifeline for families living in poverty all year round, but especially at Christmas. FareShare has a number of voluntary opportunities on Volunteer Suffolk, including volunteering in their warehouses and helping distribute food. Look out in your local supermarkets for donation points for food.

Volunteer for a Local Good Cause There are so many small charities looking for reliable, friendly volunteers over Christmas and throughout the year. Search the Suffolk volunteering database at Volunteer Suffolk for the latest opportunities near you.

If you can’t volunteer, you can still help by making a donation to a Suffolk charity. You can support the Surviving Winter Appeal. Everyone in Suffolk over the age of 65 receives a non-means tested Winter Fuel Payment, whether they need it or not. Suffolk Community Foundation simply ask that if you don’t need it, you donate it. With 310 excess winter deaths in Suffolk alone, the Surviving Winter Appeal is quite simply a life saver.

There are many wonderful benefits of volunteering – and ways it can help achieve your new year’s resolutions. Did you know volunteering can lead to increased sociability, reduced loneliness and can get you out of the house? There are so many ways that you can make a difference and help a Suffolk charity or group.

To find a role to suit you visit: www.volunteersuffolk.org.uk If you are a charity or voluntary group looking for volunteers you can post your opportunities on the website too.

If you would like support around managing volunteers, please contact the volunteering team at Community Action Suffolk by emailing: volunteering@communityactionsuffolk.org.uk

Jackie Durrant, 01449 672690

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OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS CHRISTMAS AT BLUE CROSS REHOMING CENTRE Christmas is a special day for the team at Blue Cross pet charity rehoming centre in Wherstead.

The centre is closed to the public so the team get to spend the entire day with the cats and dogs on site – handing out presents that have been donated by members of the public to the pets, taking the dogs out on long walks and, of course, giving lots of fuss and treats to all.

Over Christmas there are usually around 35 dogs and cats on site to care for.

The team will feed them their breakfast, open presents and take the dogs out on a long dog walk in the nearby woods.

Among those working this Christmas will be Animal Welfare Assistant Susie Winship. Susie has worked the last six Christmas Days at the centre on Bourne Hill.

Susie, who lives in Suffolk with cats and dogs she fosters, said: “Many pets will be calling Blue Cross their home this Christmas so we are their family while they are with us. I love working at Blue Cross any day of the year but Christmas Day is especially wonderful. The cattery and kennels are all decorated and in the run-up to the big day we always get lots of presents dropped in for the animals from kind supporters. It’s a lovely way to spend Christmas Day, caring for beautiful cats, dogs and sometimes even kittens and it makes me happy to think they are all somewhere safe, warm and cared for on this special day.”

Blue Cross also provides a pet bereavement support service, with support over phone or email even available on Christmas Day itself for those who are grieving the loss of a pet. For more details of the service visit: www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-bereavement-and-pet-loss This Christmas Blue Cross is seeking donations to help its teams give moments that matter to pets this Christmas. To donate, text Moments to 70557 or visit: www.bluecross.org.uk/Christmas-news

HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL As Christmas approaches we are busy practising songs for our performance and making a range of festive crafts.

We’re also looking forward to a visit from Ben Austwick who will be playing his guitar to the children and helping them practise their Christmas songs.

The Rev Carl Melville will also be visiting us to share the Christmas story and bringing along props and outfits for the children to wear.

We wish everyone Happy Christmas and New Year.

Don’t forget that our Annual Quiz and Curry Night will be on Friday 7 February.

We are a small, rural, friendly setting based at Henley Community Centre.

We pride ourselves, on having a high ratio of staff to children and therefore providing the maximum care and learning for the children. Our highly trained staff continue regular training to build their knowledge further.

CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL Our annual WOW Event took place at the beginning of November.

The curriculum was suspended so that all students could take part in activities designed to stretch, challenge, motivate and equip them with essential life skills which will help them on their journey through high school and beyond.

Year 7 had a fabulous time camping at Mersea Outdoor Centre in Essex where they took part in adventurous activities such as the high ropes and assault course, as well as art, PE and drama activities, all designed to develop the four Cs: Confidence, Compassion, Challenge and Conscientiousness.

Years 8-10 ‘wowed’ us all with their productivity and commitment to their enterprise tournament. In teams of 20, students had to work together to create and design a school house system which was pitched to a panel of judges the following day.

They had to consider how it would benefit the school and work in relation to competitions, sports, rewards and uniform, as well as coming up with names, colours, logos and designing their new website page.

Year 11 demonstrated great maturity and focus as they prepared for the next step of their education/training. They spent a day at a college/ sixth form of their choice and took part in a Learning About Work Day. Employers from local businesses were invited into school to act as mentors, working with small groups and teaching them about employer expectations when applying for jobs. Year 11 impressed our visitors with the way they conducted themselves throughout the day.

I would like to say a special thank you to all our guest speakers who worked with students across Years 8-11; your support was vital in making WOW Week the success it was.

Now that the festive season is upon us, I hope you will be able to join us at our Mince Pies and Music event on Monday 16 December from noon-2pm and our Christmas Concert on Tuesday 17 December at 7pm.

Tickets for both are on sale at reception. The PTA is also holding a Quiz Night on Thursday 5 December, 7pm at the school. To book your table please email: admin@claydonhigh.com 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 Ms Maéve Taylor www.claydonhigh.co.uk Claydon High School, Church Lane, Claydon IP6 0EG

We provide an extensive range of resources and activities to suit all ages and abilities, ensuring all levels of development and play within the EYFS are explored.

Parents play the most important role in children’s lives so we work closely together to ensure we work in partnership. We also hold stay and play sessions each term that are very well supported by parents/carers.

We currently have spaces available. We accept eligible 30hr funded children (the codes must be in place the term before they are needed). Children can join us from the age of two and we accept government funded and fee paying children. We are open term time only, from 9am-3pm.

We have a well-supported Facebook page that provides lots of information and you can see what the children have been doing. It’s also another way to contact the setting directly.

For further information please call 01473 833848 during session time (9am-3pm) or email me at: enquiries@henleypreschool.com Bridget and the team

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2019 NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

Image: foyer.photography

JOIN US FOR A NEW YEAR’S EVE TO REMEMBER

Tuesday 31st December, 7pm - 1am

With dancing in the Café to the SERIOUS Hat Band MEAL & PARTY TICKETS: Delicious three course meal on tables of ten in the Terrace A late night sharing cheese board per table Cost: £67.50pp FVGC Members: £60pp

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Cost: £25pp for entry from 9pm Glass of Prosecco included DRESS CODE: Cocktail

TO BOOK T: 01473 785267 A: Fynn Valley, Witnesham, Ipswich, IP6 9JA W: fynnvalleyterrace.co.uk E: enquiries@fynnvalleyterrace.co.uk

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SCHOOLS / SPORT WITNESHAM PRIMARY SCHOOL We have been enjoying lots of fun learning at Witnesham, including European Day of Languages when each class dressed in the colours of the flags of different European countries. We learned a Spanish song in assembly and the children had some fantastic experiences and activities throughout the day, including tasting European food and learning Flamenco dancing.

Many children participated in our poetry competition. The judges were very impressed with the standard of the entries and the winners from each class were presented with a prize in assembly.

Class 1 have been looking at signs of autumn and continue to enjoy ‘Welly Wednesdays’ where we use the forest area of the school and participate in some outdoor learning. We have made mud faces on the trees, have loved getting messy and found some really creative ways to use natural materials to make faces. The children all enjoyed dressing up for Halloween and had fun with lots of Halloween activities and learning a Halloween song.

Class 2 have been finishing their rainforests topic and made some fantastic rainforest pictures which are on display. The children are now enjoying looking at toys from the past and rehearsals for the Class 1 and 2 Nativity are in full swing.

Class 3 have started learning about world climates as they begin their new topic for this term. They started by thinking about what was below their feet.

The children then moved onto learning about volcanoes and cyclones which

were incorporated into their dance lessons where they put together rhythmic pieces which represented these natural occurrences.

Class 4 have been exploring different versions of the Beowolf story and have begun writing their own versions. The children are excited to have started new topics this week such as space and extreme earth. They have discussed different things they we would like to find out and will work on these throughout the topic.

Soon we have a whole school social day which includes exploring our similarities and differences as individuals, understanding what makes a friendship and how to resolve conflicts or disagreements, understanding rights and responsibilities within society, working co-operatively and collaboratively and exploring jobs within society.

We have also had some visitors in assembly to talk to us about the different jobs they do. The children have enjoyed these visits and have asked some really interesting questions.

We continue to celebrate the children’s’ achievements in our Friday afternoon assembly. Children are presented with certificates including Writer of the Week, maths certificates and our new Star Signer Certificate. Children are congratulated for not only their achievements but also for persevering with things they may find difficult to begin with and their resilience in problem solving.

BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB Festive Fun on the Tennis Court – #GOHITIT It’s great to see our courts in consistent use even at this time of year for winter league matches, mini tennis squads, adult cardio squads and ladies tennis. We’ve come a long way in just a couple of years and now have more than 100 members. On court tennis activities continue throughout the winter (weather permitting) so why not come along and have a go yourself?

For Juniors (Monster Smash and Mini Tennis)

serving and rallies along the way and everyone enjoyed the food and prizes.

Our Mini Tennis squads have also now resumed on Tuesdays with Mini Tennis RED (ages 5-7) from 4-4.45pm and Mini Tennis ORANGE (ages 8-11) from 4.45-5.30pm.

For Adults Winter league matches are now underway so if you are interested in some team tennis please contact Graham, our team captain, on 07981 842517 to discuss. Ladies tennis group runs at 6.30pm every Tuesday and cardio tennis takes place on Thursday evenings at 7.10pm. Or why not come and join us for a hit and a minced pie at our Christmas Tennis 3s event on Sunday 15 December (see events listing on our website for details) Club Awards Massive congratulations to our adult and junior annual club award winners who were nominated by their fellow players or coaches in recognition of their effort and determination in improving their tennis skills over the last year.

Our annual Monster Smash parent/child doubles competition was a great success with 16 family doubles teams taking part. We saw some excellent

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To find out more at about any of the items mentioned above please visit: www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/BramfordTennisClub www.facebook.com/BramfordTennisClub/ Coaching enquiries: carl.douglas@talk21.com / 07553 966380

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CHURCH NEWS CHURCH NEWS FROM SWILLAND & ASHBOCKING The Meaning is in the Waiting?

So how are you with presents? And I don’t mean do you like them (I think that most people do), but if you were to get one that was intended for a specific date (birthday/Christmas) what do you do?

SERVICES THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

You see some people are very good, they’ll place it somewhere safe and not touch it until the day. Others are more inquisitive and just can’t wait for a rattle, shake or general explore through the wrapping paper. I have this theory that in most families there are examples of both kinds of people.

Tuesday 24 December • 9.30am, Holy Communion, Swilland

But what’s the point of waiting to find out what it is (except if it’s what’s expected). Waiting changes our attitude to something. Sometimes our attitudes mature, sometimes not, but they will certainly change.

If the receiver is excited about a present, they might live with that excitement for a number of days. And of course, waiting need not be just passive – trying to hold yourself back – but active preparing and anticipating. You see Advent both looks ahead and looks back, and unlike many earthly presents we can both prepare and to anticipate while looking back.

The Anglican priest and Welsh poet RS Thomas wrote the poem Kneeling and for me it’s a great metaphor. That last line ‘The meaning is in the waiting’ intrigues me. I find myself searching back through the poem looking for how Thomas sees God, then running forward to see how it links up. Back and forth I go trying to understand and perhaps that’s the point.

Sunday 15 December: 11am Carol Service, Swilland Sunday 22 December: 4pm Carol Service, Ashbocking

• 11am, Holy Communion, Ashbocking WHAT’S ON – DECEMBER 2019 Sunday 1 • An informal reflective Advent Service followed by tea, 3.30pm at Burgh Schoolroom. All welcome.

• Toy Service, 11am at Grundisburgh Church, Monday 2 & 16: Knit and Stitch, 10am at the home of Linda and John Pollard of Hawthorns, The Green, Ashbocking Monday 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30: Grundisburgh Bridge Club, 7.30pm at Grundisburgh Parish Rooms Tuesday 3: Baby Café, 9-10.30am at Grundisburgh Parish Rooms Wednesday 4: • SWAPSHOP, 10-11am at Grundisburgh Parish Rooms

In waiting not for God but on God we are waiting and searching and in that our ideas mature, we become prepared and receptive. Waiting and preparing, meeting God not in our own hurried moments but God’s timelessness changes the agenda. The meaning is indeed in the waiting.

• Hobbies Group, 10am-noon, at Clopton Village Hall

Mark Cresswell

Friday 6: Ashbocking Coffee Morning, 10.30am at the home of Janice Williamson of No. 10 Nelson Close, The Green, Ashbocking

Kneeling – RS Thomas Moments of great calm, Kneeling before an altar Of wood in a stone church In summer, waiting for the God To speak; the air a staircase For silence; the sun’s light Ringing me, as though I acted A great rôle. And the audiences Still; all that close throng Of spirits waiting, as I, For the message.

Prompt me, God; But not yet. When I speak, Though it be you who speak Through me, something is lost.

The meaning is in the waiting.

YOU'RE INVITED TO OUR

Wednesday 4 & 18: Going Deeper Homegroup, 10am at Manor Farm, The Green, Ashbocking

Saturday 7 • Grundisburgh Coffee Morning, 10.30am at Grundisburgh Parish Rooms • Ashbocking Christmas Bazaar, 10am-3.30pm at Ashbocking Church.

Refreshments available all day including soup and rolls, cake and tea, coffee and soft drinks. There will be stalls with books, nearly new, clothing and toys, as well as bric-a-brac, hand-made gifts and jewellery.

Come and find the treasure on the map or draw a winning ticket on the tombola, try your hand at guessing the weight of the cake and buy some gifts for Christmas.

• Swilland Christmas Draw from noon at Witnesham Village Hall. We will be serving a light lunch of soup and filled rolls, mince pies. The draw will commence at 1pm. There will also be cake, book and gift stalls.

Sunday 8 & 15: Grundisburgh Sunday Club (ages 2-7 / contact: Jenny:jonje@talktalk.net) and Discovery Club (7+ / contact: sandra@thecresswells.me.uk), from 10.45am Grundisburgh Parish Rooms.

Monday 9 & 23: Otley House Group, 1.45-3pm at the home of Penny Clark of Cherry Bank, Otley Wednesday 11: Ashbocking Bible Study Group, 7.30pm at the home of Linda and John Pollard of Hawthorns, The Green, Ashbocking Thursday 12: Tiddlywinks, 2.30pm in Grundisburgh Upper Room Saturday 14: Burgh Soup Lunch, noon-1.30pm in Burgh Schoolroom.

Soup and bread £4, seasonal dessert £2. Raffle prize of a Christmas themed hamper in aid of Ipswich Night Shelter.

Charity Ln, Ipswich IP6 9EY

Celebrate Christmas at Otley – experience the sights, sounds and story of Christmas complete with live nativity, music, refreshments and family-friendly fun.

Dress-up warm and bring yourselves and your wellies for an outdoor celebration of Christmas – see the sheep and other animals and smell the straw of the stable as we re-tell the Christmas story with a difference.

Hot chocolate and marshmallows for all! Suitable for all ages – but limited seating and it may we be cold! Free entry, free parking and free refreshments. well

11th DECEMBER 6PM for 6:30PM until 7:30PM

for More information visitwww.light-wave.org/events for more information visit light-wave.org/events

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Monday 16: Monday House Group, 7.30pm at the home of Malcolm and Sandra Green Wednesday 18: Clopton Coffee Morning, 10am-noon at Clopton Village Hall Messy Church Please note that there is no Messy Church in December.

Live Nativity at Otley College: Wednesday 11 December, 6 for 6.30pm until 7.30pm. Free entry, free parking and free refreshments.

In Touch online:

CHURCH NEWS CAROL & CHRISTMAS SERVICES Carol Services Ashbocking, 22 December, 4pm Boulge, 13 December, 7pm Burgh, 22 December, 5.30pm Clopton, 24 December, 6pm Grundisburgh, 22 December, 7pm Hasketon, 22 December, 5.30pm Otley, 21 December, 6pm Swilland, 15 December, 11am

If you would like to take part in one or our crib services in Hasketon, Otley or Grundisburgh on Christmas Eve, please let Clare know: 01473 735183 / revclaresanders@tiscali.co.uk We need Mary, Joseph, an innkeeper, Kings, star bearers and lots of angels and shepherds. Some costumes are available, but we may not manage to clothe all the angels and shepherds!

Christmas Eve Grundisburgh Midnight Mass, 11.30pm Christmas Day Ashbocking, 11am Boulge, 11am Burgh, 9.30am Hasketon, 9.30am Otley, 9.30am Swilland, 9.30am

Children’s Crib Services

Grundisburgh Crib Service, 24 December, 4.30pm Hasketon Christingle, 15 December, 9.30am Hasketon Crib Service, 24 December, 3pm Otley Crib Service (at the Barn), 24 December, 4.30pm

Upbeat! Christmas Concerts, St Mary’s Church, Grundisburgh Friday 6 December, 7.30pm, featuring saxophonist Jonathan Farnhill Saturday 7 December, 4pm, featuring choir of Grundisburgh Primary School Tickets £8 (primary school aged children £5): 01473 735853 / 07834 984591 Supporting East Anglian Sailing Trust and Ormiston Families

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

WITNESHAM BAPTIST CHURCH We enter the time of Advent and this year we have two things to look forward to with anticipation or trepidation. The General Election on Thursday 12 December is probably the one we look forward to with trepidation. Who do we vote for, the candidate or the party, and which party? Are all parties the same, can any of them be trusted anymore? When thinking about these questions, what is first in your mind? Do you begin with the thought of what God’s thoughts or desires are? Do policy or promises align with God’s guidance as we find in scripture? Are those policies and promises based on love, care, concern and betterment for all?

DECEMBER 2019

These are tricky questions to answer as I’m sure all candidates would say their or their party’s policy are for the betterment of all. We all need to grapple with these questions and test them out according to party policies and scripture and then vote in line with our conscience.

Sunday 22 December: Combined Carols by Candlelight at St Mary’s Witnesham, 6pm

Hopefully it is with joyful anticipation that you look forward to Christmas!

This time of Advent can be stressful for many as there are concerns about money, have we enough to buy food let alone presents for family members.

When we are aware of neighbours or friends who may be struggling this Christmas, may we share with them especially our time. It has nothing to do with presents, but just being with others, perhaps sharing a simple meal, not necessarily a full-blown traditional Christmas meal.

Family Time Together: Every Sunday from 9.30-10.15am. All families, parents with children, are welcome for a special time together with craft, singing and stories.

Through this period many like to attend a carol service – locally there are a number to choose from. Centrally I ask you to think about the true meaning of Christmas. The clue is in the name – Christ – it is the time when we especially remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus. Jesus is the Christ, He is the Son of God, He is the only way for us to get into good relationship with God. Many will disagree with me about this and that is okay, but I am aware that some who do disagree will object to me and others speaking publicly or in schools about these things.

I am saddened by those who disagree and then want to promote their own thoughts as more ‘right’ than my belief and experience. Christmas is a season of ‘good will towards all people’ so, agree or disagree with others, but may we all accept that it’s not necessarily right or wrong, but different.

I invite you to join with us a fellowship over this Advent and Christmas season at any of the services or carol services noted in our dates list.

Happy Christmas, Pastor Andrew

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Morning Services begin at 11am (except when stated otherwise) Sunday 1 December: Morning Service, Pastor Andrew, including Holy Communion Sunday 8 December: Morning Service, Leanne Whale Sunday 15 December: Team Ministry Sunday 22 December: Morning Service, Pastor Andrew

Sunday 29 December: Joint Benefice Service at St Mary Magdalene’s, Westerfield

Monday 2 December: The Munch Bunch Christmas Lunch, 12.30pm. Please contact Heather for details: 01473 785321 Tuesday 3 December: Tuesday Craft Corner, 2pm. Open to all, just turn up; bring your own craft if you have one.

Every Wednesday: 3Cs Café, 9.30-11.30am for coffee (or tea), cake and chat – all welcome Fridays, 9.15-11.15am: Mums & Toddlers Group (last one 13 December) Wednesday 11 December: Prayer Fellowship, 11.30am Saturday 14 December: Mums & Toddlers Christmas Party Tuesday 17 December: Join us for Carol Singing at The Barley Mow, 7pm Wednesday 18 December: Carols at The Hope Centre, Wash Lane, 5-6.30pm In the church we have a collection box for FIND (Families in Need) and nonperishable food is very welcome. Outside there’s a clothes bank on behalf of the Salvation Army. We have bags you can use (please ask) or you can use your own. Thank you.

The post office is in our conservatory on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings. Please use this service to help keep it in the village.

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