To attend please call 03300 290 955 or visit careuk.com/suffolk Join our
Staying connected: A guide to dementiafriendly conversations
Wednesday 18th February – 2.30 – 4pm at Davers Court care home
Join us as we explore how to communicate more effectively with people living with dementia. Together, we’ll learn simple, practical ways to stay connected - helping to build understanding, ease frustration, and create more meaningful moments in everyday life.
You’ll also be able to pick up a free copy of our new guide, full of practical tips to help you communicate more easily and confidently with your loved ones.
Welcome to the February issue
With winter still very much with us but the days slowly getting longer, February is a good moment to pause, take stock and enjoy what’s happening locally. And if you celebrate it, don’t forget Valentine’s Day on February 14th.
Inside this issue, you’ll find a lovely mix of community stories and seasonal inspiration. We share highlights from the New Year Plant Hunt, where local walkers joined a nationwide citizen science project to spot plants flowering in midwinter – a simple activity revealing big changes in how our climate is shaping the natural world. You can read more about what was found, and why it matters, on page 36.
On page 40, we feature the local Repair Café, part of a global movement helping to fix broken items and preserve the stories and memories attached to them, a heart-warming reminder of the power of community and kindness.
And there’s plenty to enjoy at home too: try our Peppered Fillet Steak recipe on page 42 for a special Valentine’s treat, and keep little ones busy with a sweet Love Bug craft from Michelle at Crafty Foxes on page 48.
Have a fantastic February, take care, and we’ll see you again in March!
Gemma
www.amplifydesign.co.uk
Jeremy Editor jeremy@burystedmundsdirectories.co.uk
Peppered Fillet Steak
Bluestone Paving & Decking
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY
Opening
07792 603204
Monday
Thursday 8am, 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7pm Moreton Hall Community Centre
Saturday 7am, 8.30am & 10am
Southgate Community Centre
Tuesday 5.30pm & 7pm New Bury Community Centre
01842 820001 Wednesday 5.30pm Westbury Community Centre
Yes, the big Southgate family day of entertainment is back on Bank Holiday Monday 4 May. All of the attractions and activities are completely FREE thanks to the support of our local councillors
including the Abbeycroft climbing wall. The year 1&2 football competition is back as is the Rock Choir. Southgate Church will be running a refreshment tent, puppet shows and a load of games.
Coach Trip
TO LONDON
Saturday 16th May
Leaving Home Farm Lane bus stop, Macebearer at 9.00am
Leaving Embankment in the same area that we drop off at 7.00pm
Cost £23
Jackie will be taking bookings from Tuesday 2nd March with payment for tickets.
If your charity, organisation, or business would like to be involved please get in touch. Or if your group would like to participate in the arena displays. Put the date in your diary now.
BINGO at 7pm
Friday 6 February
Friday 13 March
(Good luck guaranteed!)
VALENTINE’S DANCE
Friday 13th February
Boogie the night away with the splendid Marrakesh Band. Only £10!
See poster opposite for details.
Anita4Bowen
• Quality treated fencing supplied & erected
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• Galvanised gate furniture
• Concrete & wooden posts
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• All types of fence panels available (treated)
• Old fencing cleared
• Excellent quotes returned promptly
• Professional, tidy & reliable service
PLUMBING
WALL
PUMPS
Acupuncture
Alexander Technique
Bowen Technique
Counselling
Craniosacral
Fertility
Fertility
Food Intolerance
Homeopathy
Hypnobirthing
Hypnotherapy
Life
Massage
Medical Herbalist
NLP
Nutritional
Osteopathy
Personal Training
Pilates
Psychotherapy
Reiki
Reflexology
Thermal
Shiatsu Trauma
Youth
Anxious, stressed, low or depressed?
We’re here to help you
We offer free mental health support in Suffolk to people aged 16 or over.
You can self-refer for talking therapy (without seeing your GP) and access a large range of online workshops by visiting our website or giving us a call.
0300 123 1503
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MOBILE HAIRDRESSER
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Moreton Hall WI
We started the meeting by toasting the New Year with non-alcoholic prosecco and, once the business of the meeting was completed, we turned our attention to discussing the shortlisted resolutions for 2026 which covered a diverse range of topics.
We welcomed Andy McGowen (Vice Chairman) and Melanie Soames
(Chairman) of Moreton Hall and Eastgate Residents Association who updated members on the results of the Big Listen project, which had been conducted in 2025 to find out more about what matters to local residents.
Andy and Mel went on to outline the Residents Association projects and priorities for the current year which was followed by a
l Hedge Trimmers
l Turf Cutters to Strimmers
l Lawn Scarifiers
l Rotavators
l Stump Grinder
l Power Tools
l Timberwolf Chipper Shredder
l Access Platforms
l Scaffold Towers
l Concrete Mixers to Sanders
l Mini Excavators to Rollers
l Disc Cutters to Lighting Towers
l Carpet Cleaners
l Wallpaper Strippers
l Concrete Breakers Thurston Road, Great Barton, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP31 2PJ
Our February meeting will be on Wednesday 4th February at 7.30pm at The Moreton Hall Community Centre when Tony Whittingham from Larkwood Lakes will be our speaker.
Visitors are always welcome. For more information contact Alison on 07557 005343 or Gwen on 07768 175235.
A family run business based in Bury St Edmunds with over 50 years’ experience. Our ethos is built on an excellent reputation.
We are able to supply and fit fencing, sheds and gates for all property types.
07857 487867
Saleitems
FEBRUARY
List items FOR SALE free of charge to Moreton Hall and Southgate Residents, email: studio@burystedmundsdirectories.co.uk
BATH LIFT
Very good condition. Have receipt when bought. £90
Tel: 01284 767738
Do you have any nearly new or unused items that are of no use to you, other than creating unnecessary clutter? Why not try to recycle them and gather a few extra pounds in the process? Please include: Brief description of the item, the price and your telephone number.
PLEASE NOTE:
The publisher can take no responsibility for the claims made by sellers regarding the goods for sale, nor are they liable for any claim with regards to the item or any payment transactions between buyer & seller.
PANASONIC 37" SMART TV
10 yrs old, unable to be updated but can be used with a Firestick. £25
Tel: 07960 449938
K.MART WEIGHTED HOOP
VGC. £10
Tel: 07960 449938
WALL UNIT
Free on collection. Good condition Tel. 07706 937852
�eeling
Local author publishes five novels to help animals
Local author Levity Brown has turned her storytelling into a fundraising opportunity by publishing five quirky, unique novels.
The books, written under the pen name of Levity Brown between 2010 and 2012, were penned as an attempt to save a Norfolk library from closing. The stories proved very popular, but a move to Bury St Edmunds meant she shelved the books for over 10 years.
Then, a chance meeting with a local company that supports authors led to the five books finally being published.
“Each story has a twist to it,” Levity explains. “I always describe them as the What if… elements. What if you could alter the course of history? What if you could live in a better world? And so on. A good story is a great place to go on a rainy day, and I have loved writing these books.”
“The five novels were always intended to entertain and also do some good in the world, so the profits from the books will be going to animal charities. I love animals, so it seems fitting that sales of my books will go to help find new homes for unwanted pets.”
Well known locally, Levity Brown already has interest from several businesses in the area, who want to hold copies of her books.
The five novels by Levity Brown
Make 2026 a year to remember…
with My WiSH charity’s challenge events
How about making this the year that you take on a challenge? We have something for everyone when it comes to ticking some of those life goals!
National Three Peaks
(June or September)
Take on Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon in just three days. You will trek 22 miles, ascending a total of 3,050 meters as you conquer the three highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales.
Skydive
The ultimate challenge! Sign up for our annual skydive on Saturday, 13 June at Beccles airfield. You will experience the thrill of freefalling 13,000 feet in just 40 seconds, all while making a real difference.
Yorkshire Three Peaks (July)
What a way to experience beautiful Yorkshire. You will cover 24 miles in one day, with over 1,400 meters of ascent, as you conquer Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough in 12 hours.
London to Paris cycle ride
(July or September)
Take on one of Europe’s most iconic cycling challenges and ride from London to Paris in an unforgettable journey.
And of course, if these physical challenges aren’t your thing, we are now taking team bookings for our Grow Your Dough challenge for 2026. You gather a team; we give you £50, and you have three months to see how much you make it ‘grow’.
To sign up to any of our events, please go to www.wishcharity.co.uk/events or email us at fundraising@wsh.nhs.uk to find out more.
Welcome to... Hardwick Primary School
Spring is just around the corner and this month we celebrate some fantastic initiatives by volunteers from the Friends of Hardwick Primary School (FoHPS).
Firstly they part-funded, with the school, Before and After School Club, the whole school visit to the Theatre Royal to
see the brilliant pantomime Rapunzel, and also in the festive spirit, introduced Santa to every class to give a present to all the children.
Finally, there was the amazing spectacle of the children, staff, parents and carers taking part in the Elf Run round the school field at the third
attempt when the weather eventually improved.
Huge thanks to all the brilliant fund-raising sponsorship that made over £1,000 which will benefit initiatives across the school this year.
Hayley Clarke, Headteacher 01284 755 424
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Latest news from
Cupid’s arrow lets loose in February, bringing an extra spring to romance and all things heart shaped.
Those living with chronic lifelong conditions, such as Lymphoedema and Lipodema, can find that taking care of themselves is also heart shaped and does reap positive benefits to their health and well being.
Whether its grabbing a quiet moment with a cuppa, enjoying a hobby or time spending with family and friends, it gladdens the heart and brings us lasting brighter moments to savour.
Skin care is important at all times of the year!
During this cooler time of year, with the wearing of more layers and the central heating on, looking after and protecting your skin is a most important.
Lymphoedema and Lipoedema can cause the skin to become dry and itchy, making cracks and breaks more likely, which can increase the risk of infection. This can usually can be prevented
by using moisturising creams and lotions both regularly and often. Your lymphoedema specialist can suggest which creams might be best for you.
USEFUL HINTS AND TIPS:
Keep your skin clean and dry. Use soap-free cleansers that don’t dry your skin. Wash with warm water every day. Carefully dry in between fingers or toes of the
2026 LSS MEETINGS
March 23rd, June 8th, August 3rd, October 5th and December 7th
7pm – 9pm in Room 2 at Moreton Hall Community Centre. There is no joining fee or referral needed. Do come along and find out more about living with, and managing, Lymphoedema and Lipoedema in a relaxed and friendly setting, along with enjoying a cuppa and slice of cake.
limb that is at risk of lymphoedema to prevent fungal infections.
Moisturise gently every day with an unperfumed cream or oil to help your skin stay in good condition.
When applying moisturiser, the last stroke should be downwards (in the direction of hair growth) to prevent the moisturiser blocking the hair follicles.
For further details on LSS and the West Suffolk Lymphoedema Service: LSS email: lssuffolk@gmail.com Facebook: LSS@lymphoedema West Suffolk Lymphoedema Service: wslymphservice@wsh.nhs.uk T: 01284 712732
For further details on Lymphoedema and Lipoedema: British Lymphology Society website: www.thebls.com Lymphoedema Support Network (LSN) website: www.lymphoedema.org Macmillan website: www.macmillan.org.uk
Winter blooming is on the increase
Jillian Macready BWMG Trustee
Every January people around the UK wrap up warmly and head outside for the New Year Plant Hunt (NYPH). This citizen science initiative invites everyone, wildflower enthusiasts and those just walking off Christmas, to record the plants in flower on their patch. It’s a brilliant way to connect with nature, and a meaningful exercise to help scientists discover what these blooms reveal about our changing climate.
Nine plucky souls braved the wintery weather, walking round the Crankles and No Man’s Meadow, up through the Churchyard and round the Charnel house. They continued on to St Mary’s church and all the way to the railings on Crown St. It was a maiden
walk for this kind of survey, and the consensus was that we will repeat it next January, encouraged by a decent performance; coming about 368 out of nearly 2000 surveys logged on the BSBI website.
The NYPH began fifteen years ago by the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland, (BSBI). It has flourished since, with thousands of records submitted annually from parks, verges, churchyards, and open spaces. This year, nearly 26 thousand unique plant records were logged with nearly 700 different plant species.
As this was our inaugural plant hunt, we can only use it as a baseline for future years but a clear trend is emerging over the UK; participants are spotting more and more plants in bloom during winter. While some variation is always expected because of weather conditions, regional differences and locations surveyed, the trend suggests a genuine shift in flowering patterns across the UK.
A leading factor accounting for this increase is climate change. Britain’s winters are, on average, becoming milder and wetter, with fewer frosts. This enables more plants to extend their flowering season or begin flowering earlier. The ‘urban heat island’ effect, where towns and cities are warmer than the surrounding rural areas, can further accelerate these changes.
The three most commonly found plants are daisies, dandelions and groundsel. We ticked off all three, identifying 21 flowering species in total. Most of the flowers we found appeared in the second half of the morning, as we moved closer to the urban
areas, demonstrating, quite clearly, the urban heat effect. So next year we will check the town’s verges, pavements and walls for signs of blooms; no doubt smashing our record of 21 species!
Flowering is triggered by temperature and daylength, so milder winters can upset these signals, such as being caught by late frosts or being out of sync with their usual lifecycle; not to mention the effect it has on our pollinators and birdlife. More on that another time.
While 70 to 80% of flowers recorded are common or widespread species, each year
www.burywatermeadowsgroup.org.uk
still brings surprises. A winter flowering violet in Scotland or a butterfly orchid in Cornwall highlights the unpredictable nature of Britain’s flora in a changing climate. Our most unusual find was probably hedge cranesbill, a geranium, as it’s rarely recorded on the NYPHs. It was flowering on one of the gravestones near St Mary’s church.
The project is a hopeful example of community action and engagement with nature, helping scientists track and respond to environmental change. Why not join in next year and see what’s flowering round you by checking our website.
EVERYBODY NEEDS FRIENDS
Having good hearted friends with a little compassion can boost mental and physical health.
Over the years it has become abundantly clear how bringing like minded people together and meeting on a regular basis can create belonging and how close knit relationships can develop.
You begin to notice the little things that slowly grow and become established into a pattern over time. You also become to realise how heart-warming being amongst these people really is.
CPSG welcomes all genders and ages (18+), whoever you are never be afraid to come in and join us to see what we are all about.
Coming together can build into a meaningful relationship. It is what you get out of it that matters as when you become long term ill you certainly know who your friends are. Friends are essential and loneliness can be bad for your health. Be open to communication and connecting with others.
Having people that understand your pain and that are there for you when you need it, is vital. Just a listening ear can make all the difference.
DIARY DATES
Positively Crafty – Thursday 5th February from 1.30pm to 4pm
Coffee Morning – Monday 9th February from 10.30am at The Dragonfly Hotel
CRAFTING…
…is a creative activity you can lose yourself in, especially when your pain dominates your day and you feel fatigued all the time. Engaging in this can positively impact on health and wellbeing. Positivity can affect mood, reduce anxiety, improve memory and concentration, raising self-esteem. Crafting with friends can be uplifting, you feel part of something and after quiet nurturing you learn to trust and share with the people who care. Come and join in and see.
Looking after ourselves is vital for our health and happiness and that means starting with yourself.
CPSG Meeting – Thursday 19th February from 2pm-4pm Both meetings are held at Southgate Community Centre
Zoom – Virtual Coffee Morning Saturday from 10am
info@chronicpainsupportgroup.co.uk Or
Repair Café: It’s about the stories
It’s not just fixing toasters and teddies
We started a Repair Café in Bury St Edmunds nearly 3 years ago and joined a movement of around 4000 cafés worldwide.
When we started, we imagined people would bring in their sick toasters and hedge trimmers and leave able to trim their hedge and enjoy a piece of toast afterwards.
Quite a range of volunteers run the café: the repairers, café staff and front-of-house. We were all surprised by two things: 1, the variety of things people bring to our door and 2, the stories behind those items.
Some examples of those stories - just from the last café. Steve and Hilary brought in their alarm-clock radio which used to wake them
up with a recording of their 29-year-old son Jack’s voice back from when he was four. They were heart-broken when the clock failed. But - a few moments in the hands of Mikey one of our volunteers - and a loose connection was re-soldered. Suddenly a voice from the past yelled ‘Hello lazy bones it’s twenty past eight time to wake up”. The emotions ran high. There were tears.
The other lovely story was one of generosity. Alastair, one of our long-standing repairers fixed a mobile “Christmas Village” decoration. The reindeer moved again, the lights lit and the tunes played. Mary the owner of the decoration said her children had out-grown it and would Alastair like it for his own family. Maybe no tears this time, but I had a surprise bout of hay fever in January…
Bin it? No way!
Book in here https://tally.so/r/3lyvqo or email repair.cafe.bse@gmail.com.
Time: 11am-2pm
Date: 14 March 2025
Place: Bridge Community Church, 68 Queen’s Road, IP33 3EW
Mikey with Steve and Hilary
Peppered Fillet Steak with Parsley Potatoes
Serves two, so why not push the boat out on a prime cut of beef, great for a romantic night in.
Ingredients:
3 large red-skinned potato, peeled and cut into large cubes
2 tbsp olive oil, plus a drizzle extra
1 garlic clove, minced
Small bunch flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
2 beef fillet steaks (each about 140g/5oz)
1 tsp cracked black pepper
Small knob of butter
Watercress
Salad, to serve
Method:
Tip the potatoes into a pan of water, bring to the boil, simmer for 2 mins, then drain. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan. Add the potatoes and sizzle gently for 20 mins, tossing occasionally, until golden and crispy all over. When the potatoes are cooked, add the garlic to the pan and fry for 1 min more. Finally, toss through the parsley, season with sea salt and set aside.
Meanwhile, rub the steaks with a drizzle of oil, then press in the black pepper. Heat a griddle pan until hot, and cook the steaks to your liking (2½ mins each side for medium rare, 3½ mins for medium, 4½ mins for well done). Leave steaks to rest for 5 mins, then top with a knob of butter and serve with the potatoes and some watercress salad.
LATEST NEWS
Welcome to Moreton Hall & Eastgate Ward Residents Association. Our next meeting is Monday 16th March, 7pm. Where you can find out what is happening on your estate and meet the committee, other residents and councillors for the ward(s).
The Mission Mistress Memorial
Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress 42-97082 came down in Home Covert, on what is now Moreton Hall estate, killing five of the crew and injuring four. The memorial was such an amazing Community event on Tuesday 6th January 2026. More than a hundred came on the day. We have had huge praise and thanks from Vice Air Marshall David Murray, a great accolade. Thanks to all those involved and those that supported the event, including families of the crew.
Moreton Hall Wildlife Champions
Thank you to Jim Sherlock one of our Committee Members who was on Suffolk Sound, Karen Cannard’s show, discussing the activities and benefits of helping the wildlife on Moreton Hall.
Parking
Still an issue on many areas of the estate, please be conscious when parking, especially to ensure emergency vehicles & waste HGVs can access the roads.
Parks Maintenance
If you see any broken benches, equipment, maintenance or repairs that require attention, please email parks@westsuffolk.co.uk to report the problems.
Moreton Hall & Eastgate Ward
Teen Chill
Sessions are designed to give young people aged 11-16 the chance to get together in a safe environment. The best part is, you get to chose what you want to do! Further details to be confirmed, starting March 2026 at Moreton Hall Community Centre.
Community Litter Picks
There has been an increase in rubbish around the estate. We are trying to ‘Keep Britain Tidy’ where we can, if you want to come along for 1/2 hour / 1 hour please meet outside Moreton Hall Community Centre, 11am – Sunday 8th March, 14th June, 13th September, 6th December 2026 – some equipment is supplied.
As chairman, I am happy to raise any points from residents raised at the meetings and with local councilllors. But you can also direct any questions you may have to your local councillors:
• Book a consultation: We’ll set a time to discuss your vision, either in person or remotely if preferred.
• During our garden/ driveway design consultation, we'll discuss your ideas and budget, explore how you want to use your garden and its style, and provide you with some content to spark inspiration. We’ll also assess your garden's design potential, including its views, levels, and access.
• Constructing your vision - using measurements we took from our original meeting and the latest technology in building/ rendering software, we can create stunning visuals showing the potential your spaces have. We try to suggest the best products possible to satisfy your vision.
• At this stage, we can supply you with stills of the ongoing project, making sure you’re satisfied with certain elements of the design.
• Once perfected, the drawing can be converted into a walkthrough-style movie, showcasing every aspect of your project.
Experience your new project before any work commences. Being in the know is crucial when it comes to your landscape project, especially when it comes to cost.
Craft Corner
Welcome to my crafty column. Every month I share a crafty activity for you to try at home. Check out my facebook page for more info www. facebook.com/thecraftyfoxes or visit www.thecraftyfoxes.co.uk
Also I am running a mystery Mother’s Day make workshop at the Apex. So please book on to make your mum a surprise gift. www.theapex.co.uk
This months’ make is all about LOVE so find out below how to make this adorable love bug.
You will need a red plate or a white plate and paint, some black paper, a heart hole punch, scissors, glue stick, pipe cleaners, red beads and googly eyes.
Fold your plate in half and then cut using scissors
Draw around a glass on black paper and cut the circle out
Glue the circle on to the semi-circle plate body
Punch out black hearts and glue on to represent ladybirds dots
Cut two thin strips of paper to be antennas
Stick the two googly eyes on or cut out of paper
Michelle x
Cut two red hearts from the other plate and a semi-circle mouth
Glue onto the face to be cheeks and a smile
Cut your two pipe cleaners into 6 lengths
Thread beads on the bottom to be feet or punch red hearts out and glue them on
Glue them to the back of your love bug.
TOP TIP…
You could make another in reverse using red hearts on a black body. Then place them together on a shelf or on your bedroom door.
www.thecraftyfoxes.co.uk
BURY ST EDMUNDS
Cricket Club
Bury St Edmunds Cricket Club will be pleased to welcome new players of all ages and abilities to play cricket in 2026.
Winter coaching is already taking place at the Victory Ground Sports Centre on Sunday afternoons until late March, these sessions can be found on the clubs website please go to www.bsecc.co.uk.
The club will have coaching taking place almost every evening from mid-April to September.
The club has a growing ladies section with the emphasis on enjoying playing in a relaxed friendly environment.
We have several fully qualified coaches looking after junior players, boys and girls for all ages from age 5 and teams of all age groups up to an under 17 team.
We are particularly keen to attract players on Sundays to take part in the Hunts Bats League. The great advantage is playing Sunday cricket on one of the best grounds in East Anglia.
Anyone interested in joining please contact via the website or President David Barker at david@ejbarker.co.uk
Suffolk Cup Winners 2025
Creche available at all services
Services Events
SUNDAY 1ST FEB
9am: Holy Communion (No singing)
10.30am: First Sunday! (Our interactive Service for all ages)
SUNDAY 8TH FEB
10.30am: Morning Worship
SUNDAY 15TH FEB
10.30am: Ecumenical Morning Worship
SUNDAY 22ND FEB
10.30am: Morning Worship
SUNDAY 22ND FEB
2:00-4:00PM
Messy Church: Messy Fishing: for families children under 16 years, fun craft, food, Bible stories, & songs + it’s free.
SATURDAY 14TH FEB
Soul Food At Moreton Hall Pub
10.30am-noon. Come and think about life’s big questions over breakfast (sorry everyone has to pay for their own breakfast).
All welcome and you don’t have to be a Christian to join in the conversation!
WEDNESDAY 4TH, 11TH, 18TH, 25TH FEB
7pm: Prayer meeting on zoom
Please remember to contact church office for zoom link – 01284 725391
TUESDAY 3RD FEB
10am-12pm: Christ Church Crafters NEW GROUP
Bring your craft & ideas to share Painting, crocheting, knitting, all welcome
TUESDAY 10TH FEB
7.30pm: Pub Theology
See David Carpenter for more details
TUESDAY 17TH FEB
10.30am-12pm: Coffee Club
THURSDAY 5TH, 12TH, 19TH, 26TH FEB
10am-12pm – Decaf - for families/carers & living with dementia
11.15am-12.15pm –
Positive Steps strength & balance exercises with Parish Nurse Lesley
FRIDAY 27TH FEB
10.30am- 12pm – Stay & Play for family and carers of pre school children & babies interactive play, snacks and time to chat. £3 for a family with two children + £1 per additional child.
Acceptance
Written by Samantha Reid, A member of Christ Church
It’s an interesting thought, isn’t it; acceptance? I find this word quite intriguing especially when I have new friends who start to open up after many months or years of getting to know them, and them getting to know me.
I always feel privileged when people open up about things that they are not happy about themselves.
When I was in my late 30’s I suffered with a debilitating back problem which started with sciatica (a pain in the bum, literally, that went down my leg). It came from two slipped disc’s; which resulted in an operation called a double discectomy. I went from being very active, to only being able to lay down flat or stand up. I couldn’t sit without pain and was
so happy to recover from this, back to full active life. The only downside is a numbness in my left foot. It was strangely like a grief that I was missing my old self, and had to get my head round not being as good as I used to be.
Jesus sets many examples of acceptance. When he meets a widower, the blind man, the leper, he does not walk away from them, but shows others how to help them: so they can help themselves. Mainly we see this in the love that is provided, and the way Jesus shines a light for each of them to follow. Not all problems are solved, and even Jesus comes to accept the ultimate sacrifice which God asks of him to take away the sin of the world.
What I wanted was in the past not the present. When I realised, I could look forward to everything my body could do, rather than looking at the one thing it couldn’t do, I started to accept the numbness in my foot rather than grieve the past.
In fact, it was this pursuit of being able that re-ignited my running. This time round I was so appreciative that I could run, I didn’t need to run a marathon, or even a 5k race, I just took pleasure in being able to get up and run. I had accepted my new self.
In February we have a big focus on love, so I pray that you love yourself, with all your changes that you may have gone through, and you can, and do feel acceptance.
As I walked round Glebe Lake at our nature reserve in West Stow on a wet and wild day in late January, I was pondering about my February article. A multitude of ideas sprung to mind but nothing really jumped out as particularly stimulating. Then the subject matter appeared right before me.
There it was, I have been building a range of habitats out of logs, branches, twigs, algae, leaves and reeds for our resident wildlife around the lakes over the last six years, so why not share some of these ideas with you, our wonderful readers. These structures work well at the lakes, but can be transferred into gardens and plots of land of any size. It’s just a matter of scale. You can do it yourself. All these habitats can house a multitude of organisms and plants. They are ideal for insects, mammals, birds, flowers, shrubs, trees, fungi and if you are very lucky reptiles. With a few of the basic materials mentioned earlier you can make one or more habitats in your own garden. You can tailor it or them to available space and your own wildlife interests. Some are as simple as a pile of reeds or logs hidden in a sheltered area, the former is ideal for grass snakes, the latter is great for insects, including some species of bees. With virtually no effort you can help your local wildlife.
Others habitats can be more complex, much like the two above. The dead hedge built from hundreds of thousands of logs, branches, and twigs runs along our border with the river Lark. It is now 100m long and has taken 6 years of constant construction. To a beetle this must look like the Great Wall of West Stow, not visible from space but to a tiny insect on a similar scale to it’s Chinese equivalent.
The other, a more recent addition to our lakes is The Great Pyramid of West Stow, once again, to a small organism a structure on a similar scale to the one in Giza. This new habitat is in it’s early days of construction, my imagination is running riot with this idea, who knows in a few years, this could be the ultimate bug hotel and accommodate thousands of organisms.
Finally, you can build your own bug hotel. This will take more time and more materials but is worth the extra effort. The one we built at the lakes as you see below was made from rotting planks and old posts.
We rescued these from our clubhouse decking which was recently upgraded. The resulting structure is a multi-storey bug paradise crammed with different materials to attract a range of organisms, it is also built on a pallet, providing ground level habitat for slow worms and snakes. The grandson of a friend helped with the construction and it is aptly called Max’s Hotel.
If you have time to build something similar to any of the above, please let me know and send photos, I would love to see what you have put together.
Pete Austin Electrician
Fully
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YOUR LOCAL CHURCH IN THE COMMUNITY CENTRE
We are not alone!
Molly was married with two children, aged 13 and 10. She was 41. One day her husband Steve was praying for her and says that he distinctly felt God saying to him: “Don’t worry, I am going to heal your wife”. That’s weird, thought Steve, she isn’t even ill!
However, a few months later, Molly went into hospital for a routine eye operation and the surgeon refused to treat her. Instead, he sent her to A&E for tests. That night she was diagnosed with Myeloid Leukaemia. Doctors told her that she had very little time to live.
But Molly was determined to think positively, and so she covered the walls of her hospital room with bible verses. She told everyone that God had used her eye check-up to get her into hospital, just in time.
After a few days, she was transferred to one of the best cancer hospitals in the country. Which, given their waiting lists, amazed some of the staff. After tests, the hospital talked to Molly about the possibility of having a bone marrow transplant. However, they
said that only a sibling’s bone marrow would match hers; but that even then, there was still only a 25% chance of success.
Molly only had one sister and so doctors analysed her bone marrow. It turned out to be a perfect match. The medics said that it was a miracle. And it was. Because gradually Molly’s hair and eyebrows grew back. And slowly, she began to get better.
Throughout her time in hospital, everyone noticed that Molly had a big sign next to her bed. It read ‘Leukaemia is not my God’.
I don’t know what 2026 holds. However, I do know that at the end of Matthew’s Gospel,
Jesus promised his followers that he will always be with them. I hold onto this promise, especially during life’s more challenging seasons. And so, even in testing times, I keep praying, keep reading the bible and keep trusting God. Which enables me to recognise the signs that he is still with me. When my mother died recently, I experienced an inner strength that enabled me to persevere and a peace that surprised me.
I don’t know what this year holds for me, or for you. But whatever we have to face, I believe that God will be right there with us. Because we are never alone.
Rev Mike Simm Minister of Southgate Church
What’s on in
FEBRUARY
Sundays 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd February
10.30am Morning Worship services with groups for children of all ages Service on 15th February includes Holy Communion
Mid-week Communion Service, Wednesdays at 1.15pm in Church Centre.
Friendship Club, for older people
Meet in the Church Centre at 2.30pm on Thursdays: 5th February –An Afternoon’s Entertainment with Tim Lovejoy. 19th February – Southgate Cinema. A relaxing afternoon watching a film.
Sunday 1 March @ 3pm
Taize Service.
This is a special event presented by the singers and musicians of Diss United Reformed Church, and will last about an hour.
Even if you don’t normally worship at Southgate – come along and experience something beautiful, gentle and uplifting.
Refreshments will be served after.
Thursday Club
Meet on 26th February at 7.00pm to watch and sing-along with a film. All ladies welcome.
CoffeeStop, Mondays, 10am to 12noon in Church Centre Free Coffee, Tea, Cake and Chat.
During term time, the following midweek groups meet in Church Centre:Liquid, for young people in school years 8 to 13, Mondays 7pm to 9pm Southgate Parent & Toddler group, Wednesdays 9am to 11am. Youth Club, for school years 5, 6, 7, Thursdays 6.30pm to 7.45pm
DRIVEWAYS, PAVING & FENCING
Local authority approved drop kerbs and access. Tarmac driveways • Shingle • Tar • Block paving
All fencing • Patios and paths • Concrete pads Footings • Drainage • Fully insured.
For a free quote, call Darren 07766 024137
What’s on
Please note: all correct at time of going to press, but please check for updates directly with the venue.
Cinema
Is This Thing On? (15)
Release date: 30 January 2026 Running time: 121 minutes
As their marriage quietly unravels, Alex seeks new purpose in the New York comedy scene while Tess confronts the sacrifices she made for their family — forcing them to navigate co-parenting, identity, and whether love can take a new form.
Cast: Will Arnett, Bradley Cooper, Laura Dern, Sean Hayes, Amy Sedaris, Andra Day.
Find out more at: www.cineworld.co.uk
Music
The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars
Wednesday 11 February 2026
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club return to The Apex with a stunning new collection of music, narration and projected archive images and footage, celebrating Ronnie Scott’s ‘Soho Songbook’.
Since it’s humble beginnings as a basement music bar where musicians would jam, through to the internationally acclaimed music venue it is today, Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club has showcased the music of some of the world’s greatest and most influential artists. Hosting landmark performances from the likes of Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck and Michael Bublé.
Tickets: £30 including £2 booking fee
Find out more at: theapex.co.uk
Theatre
Glitch: The True Story of the Post Office Scandal
Tuesday 10thWednesday 11th Feb
Pam Stubbs has been subpostmistress of Barkham Post Office for over twenty years, respected and loved by the community.
But when unexplained discrepancies start appearing in her accounts, Pam soon finds herself at the heart of the biggest miscarriage of justice in English legal history.
Glitch is an inspirational true story, based on the experiences of Pam and her colleagues. The play was created with sub-postmistresses and masters affected by the events, key members of the legal process.
Find out more at: theatreroyal.org
Theatre
And Then Come The Nightjars
Friday 6th March - Saturday 21st March
A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds In-House Production. Written by Bea Roberts. Directed by Owen Calvert-Lyons.
A tender, frank and funny play about a West Country farm struggling to survive the Foot and Mouth pandemic.
South Devon, 2001. Disease ravages the countryside, pyres are lit on the horizon, and dairy herdsman Michael is trapped as his farm becomes a battleground for his business, his heritage, and his friendship with local vet Jeff. Ten years on and the battle scars are as evident on their relationship as they are on the landscape.
Bea Roberts’ play And Then Come The Nightjars charts the struggle of one farm amidst a crisis that saw the slaughter of four million animals and the postponement of a General Election. The play was joint winner of the inaugural Theatre503 Playwriting Award.
“A right little cracker, a small but beautifully observed two-hander about a dying way of life and male friendship that spans 12 years… a savagely funny and sad play” – Guardian
Find out more at: theatreroyal.org
Theatre
Tom Gates
Wednesday 18 February 2026
Music Man In The Mirror: A Tribute to Michael Jackson
Based on the bestselling books by Liz Pichon, Tom Gates EPIC Stage Show comes to The Apex bringing alive the illustrations and music that makes Tom Gates hugely popular around the world!
With catchy tunes and hilarious performances, this fantastic new stage show brings the best of the brilliant world of Tom Gates into one live show!
Starts: 12.30pm and 3.30pm
Tickets: £18.50, Child £17.50, Family ticket £68 (max 2 adults)
Find out more at: theapex.co.uk
Thursday 26th
February
A Thriller of an evening, celebrating the legendary music of the KING OF POP.
This is the “Man in the Mirror” – The brand new must-see, electrifying tribute concert to Michael Jackson.
Starring CJ, one of the world’s greatest Michael Jackson Tribute Artists and supported by a talented cast of performers and musicians who capture the essence of Michael Jackson’s unique style and charisma like no other, in this scintillating production that will keep you on the edge of your seats.
Find out more at: theatreroyal.org
THE 19TH HOLE
BY ADAM TRETT, PGA PROFESSIONAL GOLF COACH
Email: adamtrettpga@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: Adam Trett - ADT Golf Coaching
Welcome back to the 19th hole. January has been a cold start to the new year with some snow on the ground. However, the first month of the year is done and we are one step closer to spring. As a golfer we know what that means… we are one month closer to seeing Augusta National in all its glory.
That being said we still have plenty of time to action our goals and plans for your golf game this year. If you have set some goals for your game this year the one piece of advice I would give you is make them achievable, it would be great to have to reset them a numbers of times throughout the year rather than never achieve them.
COACHES CORNER: HOW FAR DO YOU REALLY HIT IT?
Do you know the ACTUAL distances you CARRY the golf ball with each club in your bag? If the answer is NO or even if you’re guessing, then maybe it’s time to get these distance recorded for the season ahead.
GAP TESTING THAT’S JUST GOOD PLAYERS ISN’T IT?
The answer to this is NO! Gap testing gives every golfer a better understanding of their own game, and allows them to make better plans on the course with more confidence.
WHY ONLY MEASURE CARRY DISTANCE?
It’s so important to know how far you carry a shot through the air as this will allow you to plan shots and avoid hazards on course. These numbers can then be adjusted to suit the ground conditions you find yourself playing on. Summer firmer conditions or winter softer conditions will see less or more rollout from your carry distances.
DO YOU YOU USE A MEASURING DEVICE ON COURSE?
If you do then using your numbers from a gap test will allow you plan your strategy on each hole much better, avoiding hazards or laying up to favourite yardages. Making the most use of the measuring device you have on course to help you navigate your way round better.
DOES THE WEATHER AFFECT MY YARDAGES?
YES, the weather will affect your yardages. However, by knowing what your yardages are you can then adjust for the season or conditions you find yourself playing in much easier.
TOP TIP: If you are a person that plays in bad weather maybe complete this process in full waterproofs or multiple layers to see how much this alters your numbers.
DON’T FORGET THE SHORT GAME!
This process is not just for full swings. Your wedge shots are so
I hope this edition of the 19th Hole has helped, as always if you would like any advice or help with your golf game please get in contact. Here’s to a great month of golf, and I will see you in March for maybe the start of warmer games of golf.
important when it comes to scoring well as you want to take advantage of those good tee shots.
So covering your shortened swings with these clubs is so important, and will make decision making on these shots so much easier.
If this has been helpful and you’re thinking about completing this process before the season starts, please feel free to email me and I will help to complete this testing for you or put you in contact with a local PGA Professional that can help you with this.
