www.stradbrokemonthly.co.uk
December 2021/ January 2022
No.478
Merry Christmas and a very happy and healthy 2022 to all our readers!
Christmas Lights and Carolling! All of Stradbroke are welcome to join Lights in the churchyard on 5th Dec from 4pm will give us all a chance to meet safely to celebrate Christmas coming. The church will be open for children’s crafts, serving mulled wine, hot chocolate and biscuits. The star will shine out from the top of the tower and lights in the tree outside. Join us for all of this and singing of carols outside around the tree! Susan Loxton
Stradbroke’s Christmas Walk 2021 The Rangers are back! You are invited to join us for the traditional evening 3-mile-round-trip torchlit Christmas Walk from the Stradbroke Sports and Community Centre to Battlesea Hall on Tuesday December 21st. Upon arrival at Battlesea Hall, by kind permission of Adrian Lawson, you will enjoy a glass of Mulled Wine and a Mince Pie. As the weather will be cooler and the way possibly muddy, please wear suitable clothing, footwear and bring a torch which we hope you will use a little as possible in order to enjoy the beauty of a hopefully moon and starlit night! Unfortunately, you will not be able to bring your dogs, as there are working dogs on the farm. We want you to be aware that you will be walking at your own risk but know it will be a really enjoyable evening. We will be meeting at the Stradbroke Sports and Community Centre at 6pm prompt and there is no charge. It would be helpful if you could let us know beforehand if you wish to come along. Dennis Merritt 388382 and Roger Turkington 384248
Stradbroke Baptist Church
Local Churches
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Laxfield Road, Stradbroke, Suffolk, 01379 388 744 Warmest greetings to you and your loved ones. You would be made most welcome to join us: Sundays 10:15am Worship Service (19 December – Morning Carol Service) Thursdays 1:30pm Prayer & Share th
Christmas Activities Due to the current COVID-19 situation we have decided not to go ahead with any additional Christmas activities for this year. Something to ponder this Christmas season… ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’ The following carol by Charles Wesley, published in 1739, is considered by many hymnologists to be among the top three or four best hymns ever written and remains one of the most popular even to this day. I encourage us all to spend a little time reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas as summarized from scripture in Wesley’s masterpiece. (Based on the scriptures from Luke 2:1-14.) Hark! The herald angels sing, … The first stanza contains: the angel’s Message… “Glory to the newborn King; Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!” Joyful, all ye nations rise, … and what our response should be… Join the triumph of the skies; With th’angelic host proclaim, “Christ is born in Bethlehem!” Hark! the herald angels sing, … The refrain allows us to express our own praise to God for “Glory to the newborn King!” the glorious gift of Jesus, the Saviour. Christ, by highest Heav’n adored; … The second stanza tells us who Jesus really is… Christ the everlasting Lord; Late in time, behold Him come, Offspring of a virgin’s womb. Veiled in flesh the Godhead see; Hail th’incarnate Deity, Pleased with us in flesh to dwell, Jesus our Emmanuel.
Hail the heav’nly Prince of Peace! … The third stanza tells us what Jesus came to do… Hail the Sun of Righteousness! Light and life to all He brings, Ris’n with healing in His wings. Mild He lays His glory by, Born that man no more may die; Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth. In Wesley’s carol we find two old-fashioned words we rarely use today: the first word in this song, “Hark!” (to pay close attention, or, to listen!), the second word is “Hail!” (to acclaim, salute, acknowledge, to praise enthusiastically!). This Christmas season, will you Hearken to the Lord and Hail Jesus as your King, Saviour and Lord? We would like to wish you all a Happy Christmas and a peaceful year ahead! from all at Stradbroke Baptist Church - 01379 388 744 or 07484 219 265 or psalm34.8@yahoo.com
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Local Churches
All Saints, Stradbroke Revd Canon Susan Loxton 01379 388493, Church warden Peter Chetwynd 384069 If you have any questions about Baptisms, Weddings or Funerals, or any questions about the Faith, please contact Revd Canon Susan 5th Dec 10.30 am Café church Gift giving 19th Dec 8.30 am BCP Holy Communion 19th Dec 4.00 pm Carol service 24th Dec 11.15 pm Holy Communion 2nd Jan 10.30 am Café church, coffee and biscuits to start 16th Jan 8.30 am BCP Holy Communion 6th Feb 10.30 am Café church, coffee and biscuits to start For other services each week across the Benefice, see church noticeboard. The church continues to be open for private prayer every day from 10am to 4pm Short, informal prayer time each Monday at 10 am in The Rectory. Everyone is welcome to join us. Also find us on our website: sancroftbeneficechurches.org Gift giving service, 5th Dec, 10.30 at Café church is our traditional time to think more of others who have little or nothing themselves. Bring an unwrapped gift for a child or an adult that we will donate to the Salvation Army Gift Appeal. These will be given to those they know are in need this Christmas time. Lights in the churchyard on 5th Dec from 4pm will give us all a chance to meet safely to celebrate Christmas coming. The church will be open for children’s crafts, serving mulled wine, hot chocolate and biscuits. The star will shine out from the top of the tower and lights in the tree outside. Join us for all of this and singing of carols outside. Carol service on 19th Dec will be inside with candle lights. Our traditional service of carols and readings will be safely monitored with space enough in our large building. Do join us to share the joy of Christmas. Want to help at any time in the church? Check out the porch notice board for detailed lists of jobs and skills that we would warmly welcome. There is a wide range needed: arranging flowers, cleaning away cobwebs, polishing brass, taking photos, sharing church history, stitching panels, making coffee, clearing grass and weeds outside, reading in a service time, preparing children’s activities in information trails or crafts and anything else that would keep the church right and welcoming for everyone in the village.
All Saints Church Fundraising Committee
We raised £240 at the craft fair in November. Thanks to all the stall holders who supported us. On November 20th we have a book and puzzle sale in the church with also a stall, raffle, coffee and cake. This is when the magnificent Xmas Raffle will be on show with ticket sales. After this the hamper will go into the Bakery where you can buy a ticket. It will then be drawn out at the Christmas Bingo in the community centre on Dec 10th. Our Christmas Cake stall is on Dec 4th, 8.30am onwards. Hope to see you all at these events after this the books will be dispersed as we can no longer keep them. Thanks to everyone who has supported us during a very difficult time and the committee wish everyone a Happy Christmas and New Year. Next Bingo is on Friday 14th January 2022. Mary Ellis
From the Rectory
Dear Friends and neighbours, I confess, I find Christmas very difficult – I love nativity plays, carols and getting together. But not the encouragement to spend lots of money on food, drink and gifts, causing some people to ruefully count the cost in January. It doesn’t add up for me because the reason for Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Christ Jesus, who came to earth to show us God’s love. He came to bring light into darkness, joy into sadness and life in its fullness, not gifts we don’t need. I heard a story about a woman who asked all her friends and family to send her a candle for Christmas and give money they would have spent on a gift to charity. She had a room full of candles reflecting the love of friends and family – and the knowledge that the money had gone to those in need. Christmas is a time to celebrate because the story is full of hope for ordinary people, like you and me. Hope to see you on the 5th when we do a little celebrating together around the Christmas tree. God bless, Susan
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Chiropodist/Podiatrist Surgery at Stradbroke, by appointment only. Call 01379 384126/ Mob 07985 377891 Diploma of Podiatric Medicine 25+ Years experience HCPC registered - No CH18193
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Parish Pump
Next Parish Council meeting: 13th December in the Court House starting @ 7.30pm There is a vacancy on the Parish Council which Councillors are hoping to fill via co-option. If you are interested in the role, please contact the Clerk (details below). Planning consultation decisions reached by the Parish Council: DC/20/05126 – Outline planning application (access only considered all other matters reserved) - Residential development of up to 80no. dwellings Land South of Mill Lane, Stradbroke SUPPORT – with comments regarding drainage and flooding, and in combination effect of development on highways. DC/21/05808 - Demolish existing house and rebuild. Marsh Farm, Mill Lane IP21 5HW SUPPORT Planning outcomes issued by Mid Suffolk: DC/21/05021 – 6 Wilby Road IP21 5JN GRANTED DC/21/05210 – Land South of New St – non-material change: porches to be GRP finish in white with tiles to match main roof where pitched porch provided. APPROVED DC/21/05424 – Corner Cottage, Church Street IP21 5HS. GRANTED DC/21/04387 – Land South of New St. Discharge of condition - surface water drainage scheme. REFUSED DC/21/04384 – Land South of New Street. Discharge of condition – Sustainability and energy. APPROVED DC/21/05376 Land adjacent West Winds, Drs Lane. Discharge of condition 4 (landscaping scheme). AGREED EXCEPT FOR adjustment to allow for provisions of condition 3 (pedestrian access). DC/21/05022 - Oakfields, Battlesea Green GRANTED – no lighting
Parish Council updates: • The Parish Council awaits a decision from the Community Centre Trustees on whether they wish to take ownership of part of the tennis courts. The Trustees are investigating the ownership/responsibility of the adjoining ditch before reaching a decision. • The Council are considering responses to a number of consultations: Lorry Review, DEFRA re burial regulations and MSDC 5 year land supply draft statement. • Councillors approved increases to fees for the cemetery and minor changes to the rules and regulations. • Transfers to and from Reserved Funds were approved. • Following the annual inspections, Councillors approved the removal of the wooden fitness equipment around the playing field with a view to updated equipment being investigated and the removal of one of the goal posts at Westhall. • The Parish Council will lead on the Queens Green Canopy project as part of the Jubilee Celebrations. • Councillors noted the balance of CIL held by the Council is £24,954 with £16,636 allocated to improvements to the Health Centre. • Councillors approved CIL expenditure to upgrade the pavilion at the Bowls Green at the Wilby Road site. • Upgrades to the Cricket Club practice area will be investigated as either a CIL or S106 project. • Grit Bin – County Councillor Gould will be approached to assist with funding for a bin. • Personnel Committee will meet ahead of the budget review meeting of Finance Committee. Odile Wladon (Clerk) Mobile: 07555 066147 Email: clerk@stradbrokepc.org Website: https://www.stradbrokepc.org/ PC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StradbrokePC Address: Mill Hill House, Church Lane, Wickham Skeith, Suffolk IP23 8NA
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From The Chair..
We welcomed Helen Long to her first meeting as a councillor at our November meeting in the Court House. A revised planning application for the site behind the Primary School (land South of Mill Lane) was discussed by the Council. We noted that this application now complies fully with the neighbourhood plan and voted to recommend acceptance to Mid Suffolk. Councillors asked Mid Suffolk to pay particular attention to ensuring that drainage of the site was fully considered in the conditions made especially the risk to any neighbouring properties. If this planning application is accepted, then it will provide land for a new nursery building just behind the primary school as well as a new car park and bus drop off area for the school and nursery. It will also secure the current primary school playing field which the school currently leases. 15 affordable homes for rent will be built. The proposed mix of house sizes is 13% one bedroom, 38% two bedroom, 30% three bedroom and 19% four bedrooms. This housing mix complies with our STRAD3 neighbourhood plan policy, and we hope that it will help enable local first-time buyers and younger families to obtain housing in Stradbroke. We expect the application to be considered by Mid Suffolk District Council’s housing committee shortly. It was great to see a large crowd for the remembrance ceremony at the War Memorial this year. Last year only wreath layers were able to be present, but this year there seemed to be even more people than usual present for the ceremony. Whilst Covid continues to affect daily life it is good that more events are now able to take place and we look forward to this continuing in 2022. Our next meeting is on Monday 13th December at 7.30pm in the Court House, meetings can also be seen on the Council’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/StradbrokePC As this year comes to an end, I’d like to say a big thank you to all councillors and our clerk for their hard work this year keeping the work of the Council going. Our best wishes to all in Stradbroke and beyond for a very Happy Christmas and New Year. James Hargrave, Chair of Stradbroke Parish Council
Climate Action: Thank you, Stradbroke!
Groundwork East Green Champions spoke to nearly 400 households in November. Thank you! We really want to reduce our bills and carbon footprint. Many of us told Groundwork we would be able to do much more with support from government energy schemes. Green Champions will be back in a few months to update on Stradbroke’s progress in saving energy. Important: If you did not see the Green Champions, please help Suffolk County Council in their climate change work for households by taking the 5 minute Groundwork survey: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/greensuffolkbefore a Advice sheets on cutting bills and energy are available at Stradbroke Library a More help for individuals, households organisations www.greensuffolk.org/at-home/ a Generate your own energy: www.greensuffolk.org/renewables a Calculate your familys actual carbon imprint: www.greensuffolk.org/at-home/carbon-footprint a sarahgill@groundwork.org.uk (07720) 098980 Stradbroke Parish Council Climate Change Group - antoinettewisbey@gmail.com
Catalytic Converter Marking
A Wisbey
The theft of catalytic converters from petrol cars continues, with our part of the county having been targeted especially hard over the summer. The precious metals used in the CAT are what criminals are after and the methods used to remove a converter are quick & silent, giving owners little or no warning somebody is interfering with their car. When Police stop vehicle occupants and find catalytic converters, it makes the process of identifying them as stolen much easier if the converter is security marked. It means, not only is an arrest more likely, the owner of the converter can be traced, a statement taken and a successful conviction more likely. Halesworth Safer Neighbourhood Team offered a free catalytic converter marking service during November. We were supported by Barley Green Garage, on the B1117 between Laxfield & Stradbroke, where the marking took place and we will be repeating the service during 2022. Watch the Halesworth Police Facebook page where details will be posted and also listen to Park Radio on the first Monday of the month where Community Engagement officer, PC Simon Green will be sure to provide details of forthcoming events. Park Radio broadcast on 107.6 FM & 105.2 FM. Alternatively, listen live on-line from their website at https://www.parkradio.co.uk For further information about catalytic converter security, go to the Suffolk Constabulary crime reduction, 'First Principle', page from our website https://www.suffolk.police.uk/ Criminals will not take the usual precautions when stealing a catalytic converter such as using axle stands. If you see somebody working underneath a car and believe it to be suspicious, dial 999. Simon Green, PC 187, Community Engagement Officer
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KFRP (Adv), LCSP (Phys), Cert Ed
Remedial Massage, Reflexology Touch for Health – Kinesiology One-One and Group sessions available via Zoom rachelpbck@gmail.com www.ukkinesiology.com 01379 388031 07733 105752
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Friendly & Helpful Service From Adie
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Organisations
W.I.
We were delighted to welcome Paula Baker from Suffolk Prickles the Hedgehog Rescue centre. With a selection of photographs we were introduced to Baldrick and Primrose and a charming selection of adult and baby Hedgehogs. Unfortunately all the hedgehogs we saw were at Suffolk Prickles a rescue centre for injured and distressed animals where they were treated, fed and watered and taken care off until they could be released back to where they came from as it is an area they would be familiar with. Many of us were aware of Hedgehogs in our gardens and we were given advice on the best food to leave for them, plus fresh rain water if available. November is the month of our annual meeting and the necessary activity and financial reports were quickly dealt with. We are still solvent but the pandemic has had an effect on our activities and funds. Election for the committee regretfully did not produce any new volunteers and from the committee Gwyneth Harris was elected president for the next 12 months. Congratulations to her. Our 13th January meeting at members request will be at 2.00pm and will comprise a discussion on the list of resolutions put forward by fellow members. A silent auction will follow with tea and cakes. We welcome friends old and new at this and subsequent meetings. Gwyneth Harris
Stradbroke Court House and Library News
Happy Christmas 2021 Everyone From All Of Us At The Court House!! We have Charity Christmas Cards and a Christmas Hamper Raffle, so do come and support what we do at the Courthouse and raise money for good causes. The Court House Cafe is now open with its normal opening hours every Thursday and Saturday mornings. It is a vibrant, lively Café with lovely homemade food and very good coffee. We have started an informal Craft & Natter group at the library on Tuesday afternoons from 2 to 4pm. If anyone is interested in joining the group please call in at the library (01379 384465) and let Maureen know or ring Maureen (07507802360) or Candice (0779569105). It would be an opportunity to bring your own craft and get to know other like-minded people in our community or to just come along and socialise. Craft packs can be provided if needed for a small fee and refreshments are provided. Our Thursday Afternoon Book Group is now up and running again. Our meetings are held on the last Thursday in the month. Next meeting Thursday 30th December. New members welcome. Our next Friday Friends Café is Friday 3rd December from 10-12pm and will be held on the first Friday in the month onwards, we will still be supporting families that have been affected by dementia but would also like to invite anyone to come along who might just like some friendly company and chat. There will always be someone understanding to talk to about support and advice if you need it. For more information, please contact Maureen 01379 384768 or mobile 07507802360 or call in at the Library/Post Office. Christmas stamps are on sale at the Post Office and we always have our gift tokens that can be used in loads of high street stores or online. Perfect for those who you don’t know what to buy for Christmas and birthdays. COLLECT YOUR COVID 19 LATERAL FLOW HOME TEST AT STRADBROKE LIBRARY. Call in and ask. Maureen John, Library/Post Office Manager
Radio Stradbroke
This is always a busy time of year for Radio Stradbroke. In chronological order, we will be providing the PA for the Christmas Lights switch on at All Saints Church on Sunday 5th December, at 4pm. Rising star Breeze Redwine will be providing some festive songs in the Church at 3pm. On Christmas morning, Marty Norris will be broadcasting 'Marty's Christmas Crackers', as usual. He would love you to join him! Looking further ahead, plans are being drawn up for an event on Sunday 5th June 2022, celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, so watch this space. What is definitely happening is 'Stradbroke Music Day' on Saturday 9th July 2022, featuring 'Planet Abba'. Again, we will keep you posted. Thank you for all your support of www.radiostradbroke.co.uk in 2021. Michael Hugman
Stradbroke Good Neighbours
Stradbroke Good Neighbours are now offering lifts to hospitals and Drs etc. We can only take one passenger sitting diagonally opposite the driver and masks and hand gel will be provided. We can have help from porters at the hospital if needed. Good Neighbours 07749445531 Jane Gemmill and the G N Committee
Over 60s
We are looking forward to our Christmas Lunch and Entertainment on 2nd December. Let’s hope next year we can all enjoy our usual meetings and outings. Our first meeting after Christmas will be Thursday January 20th , all newcomers welcome. We send our best wishes to everyone for Christmas and the New Year. Email: carole.sach123@btinternet.com Carole Sach
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Organisations
Stradbroke Village Archive
On the Hunt Stradbroke Village Archive is on the hunt for information about an artist who was born c1788 and died probably 1851. His name was Stephen Smith. He owned land in ‘Barlow Green’ and lived there for most of his life. He married Emma Humphries in 1815 and together they raised their family there. Emma pre-deceased Stephen within the period 1841 to 1851. This ten-year period saw the death registration of eight local women, all with the same name - Emma Smith. We are hoping there may be some Stephen Smith artwork still hanging on walls and/or hiding in attics in the village. As an addition to this: Stephen and Emma Smith’s youngest daughter, named Naomi, went on to become a house servant to an important London doctor in Hanover Square. Naomi met and married her husband, Henry Fryer, and she lived a long and happy life. We know she was proud of her Stradbroke roots and spoke about her childhood often. The Diss Express reports in 1937 that she had celebrated her 100th birthday when it was discovered that she was in fact 101. Oops! This error occurred because she was born before national registration and her daughter had struggled to find any relevant records of the event. How times have changed!! Naomi Fryer died in her 101st year We are also on the hunt for any old pictures of the Butchers Arms on the Wilby Road. Thank you. Source: www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk www.ancestry.co.uk, www.stradbrokearchive.org.uk, www.freebmd.org.uk Stradbroke Village Archive wish everyone, A Merry Christmas and a Healthy, Happy, and Peaceful New Year
Ann Readman, SARA
Stradbroke Allotment Newsletter
Now that Autumn is well amongst us, we have finished harvesting the beans and some vegetables for the freezer. It is so rewarding to have your own vegetables that you have grown on your plate for Christmas. We have been holding some very successful workshops up in the black barn on the allotment. We have made bags and cushion covers printed with nature and lots of exciting items by needle felting. Basket weaving was a great success , so a Christmas willow wreath one will be held sometime in late November DTBC. We are so lucky to have Hedgehogs on the allotment. Hedgehogs are on the decline, due to the loss of habitat. When you are going to have a bonfire, please make sure that you either move it from the original site or shake it and check there are no hedgehogs nesting within it. A lot of hedgehogs come to grief in this way. If we all think about how to garden for wildlife, these super friendly (but can be noisy) little garden companions could be on the rise again. If you are interested in making a hibernation house for these super little beasties, or you have concerns regarding hedgehogs., just type into google The British Hedgehog Preservation Society and everything you need to know is on there. Well another season comes to an end and the preparation of the soil for next year begins. If you are interested in renting an allotment and join our lovely gardening community, you can contact Mary Thompson on 01379 384737 to see if one is available ,or to be put on our waiting list. Happy digging, Mary Thompson
Stradbroke Village Show
Stradbroke Church Village Show of Flowers, Vegetables and Produce will be held at the Commhunity Centre on Saturday 23rd July 2022. Potatoes for the bucket competition will be on sale at the cake stall in Church Street in March 2022. The classes you can work on during the winter are the following handicraft and photo exhibits: Class 61 - Crochet Class 62 - Knitted Soft Toy Class 63 -Knitted Baby Jacket Class 64 - Embroidery or tapestry Class 65 - A picture in pencil, watercolour or oils, max 8” x 11” Class 66 - Greetings Card made by exhibitors Class 67 - Photograph 7” x 7” max of Village Scenes Class 68 - Suffolk Landscapes Class 69 - Open Choice Class 72 for children - photo of pet animals Full details will be available at the Cake Stall in March. Any enquiries to Roly Copping on 01379 384839. Many thanks to everyone who exhibited at the Stradbroke Show, also thanks for raffle prizes and generous donations. Roly Copping
Borderhoppa
Everyone at Borderhoppa would like to wish all of our passengers and supporters a very merry Christmas. We have lots of great outings booked for 2022, pub lunches, trips to garden centres, the seaside and much more. Our 2022 outings leaflet will be available from early December. If you would like a copy, please contact us on 01379 854800 or email adminborderhoppa@btconnect.com. We look forward to seeing you in 2022! Borderhoppa
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01379 677 770
Antique Restoration
Ian Brown LCGI
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Forthcoming Events
Rustic Barn Craft And Gift Shop
The Rustic Barn at The Old Lion Queen Street Stradbroke, will be holding a late night shopping event, with mulled wine and 10% off all sales, going towards pancreatic cancer. Do come along on Thursday the 2nd of December, between 6pm and 9 pm, to look for that unusual Christmas present Mary Thompson
Syleham and Wingfield village hall (IP21 4LT)
Diary dates: 4th Dec Expletives - punk band - Syleham and Wingfield village hall 8pm 11th Dec Coffee/ Open event, Syleham and Wingfield village hall 10 – 12 17th Dec Quiz evening, Syleham and Wingfield village hall, 7.30 31st Dec New Year's Eve celebration with Jukebox John, Syleham and Wingfield village hall 8pm 21st Jan Quiz evening, Syleham and Wingfield village hall, 7.30 22nd Jan Pre-Burns night celebration, Syleham and Wingfield village hall. Coffee and open event on Saturday 11th December - Pop in between 10 and 12, and be nosy, come and use the wifi, come for a game of pool, come for a coffee/ tea and a chat.... Fundraising Quiz evenings have been arranged - Fri 17th Dec iao village hall funds, Fri 21st Jan for Eye Opportunity Group, both will be 7.30 for 8pm start, teams of 4, fiver per person, bring your own snacks or buy crisps and chocolate at the bar. Raffle. As always, there'll be Mars bars for the team with the lowest score!! Monthly times to get together continue with Coffee and cake on the 1st Tuesday 10 - 11.30 (in conjunction with Syleham church), J's Meadow 2nd Thursday 10 - 12, Coffee and craft on the last Thursday 1.30 - 3, All are very welcome to drop in to these small events. Syleham and Wingfield Sports and Social club volunteers open the bar each Tuesday and Friday from 8pm - come along to Open mic on 1st Friday, Purple Star karaoke on 2nd Friday, Bingo last Friday (no Bingo in Dec) Live Music continues on Saturday 4th December when the Expletives make a return visit - expect Jam, Ramones, Pistols, Stranglers! Pay 7 on the door. Doors 8pm. SWSSC bar will be open from 8pm as usual Friday 24th December and Tuesday 28th December. Celebrate the New Year with us from 8pm 'til 1pm, leading us into 2022 will be Jukebox John, burger van in attendance, tickets for SWSSC members 5, non-members 7.50 from the bar on Tues & Fri evenings or contact Donna (see below) or text Julie 07929794636 Pre Burns night celebration on 22nd January 2022 - Haggis and other Scottish specialities. Scottish Whiskey tasting. Raffle (SWSSC annual membership is only 3.50/ 3.00 concs) Booking for our village hall can be made via Donna 01379668361, 07876487294, donnamariegoose@hotmail.co.uk Julie Thompson
Stradbroke Cinema
We haven’t been able to finalise our films for the Spring Season but we are hoping that we will be able to show James Bond’s No Time to Die early in the New Year. No need to watch it on the small screen or drive for miles just come to Stradbroke Cinema for a spectacular evening seeing it on the big screen with surround sound too! On December 16th we will be showing The Father. Award-winning Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Colman star in this powerful portrayal of an 80 year old defiantly and mischievously living alone in London rejecting all offers of care. His daughter, Anne, becomes increasingly frustrated - how can she cope with him? A warm, real life film that is heart-breaking and poignant but showing these 2 actors at the height of their skill. British cinema at its very best Doors open at 7pm and the film starts at 7.30pm. It is no longer mandatory for you wear a mask during the performance but if you feel more comfortable doing so then please wear one. There will be an interval half way through the film, with ice-cream on sale and the Bar will also be open. Tickets will be on sale from December 1st via the online booking system - £5.50 for adults, £3 for 16s and under. If you are unable to use our booking system, tickets will be available using card payments on the door and at the Bar - but we will never refuse cash! Full details can be found on the Village website that is at www.stradbrokeonline.org.uk Roger Turkington and Jane Merritt
Lottery Bonus Winners
19 A Naulls £25 17 R Copping £25 19 R Ward £25 £96 donated to village organisations
56 No Winner Rollover to next week
M Ellis
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The Original Stradbroke Village Website! Now in its 19th year the Stradbroke Village Website brings you news, views and information about Stradbroke.
MARK BANCROFT PAVING SERVICES
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OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 07:00-20:00 Saturday 07:00-18:00 Sunday 07:00-14:00 Phone number 01379 388547
Discount for Mid Suffolk based groups and businesses!
Forthcoming Events
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Contact Club
The contact club takes place every Tuesday in Stradbroke Community Centre. We are open from 10.00 am for coffee and a chat, we play cards, bingo etc. There will be a small charge of £1.00 to help our funds. If you would like to stay to lunch which is served at 12.00, it’s an extra £2.00. The Contact Club has been running 20 years to help the older community contact one and other, but is more important now than ever after the isolation we all faced through the Covid Pandemic. If you would like to join us on a Tuesday please contact myself. We would be happy to welcome you. stella.goddard@yahoo.com or 01379 384704 Stella Goddard
Common Ground Theatre Company touring East Anglia Common Ground Theatre Company’s 2021-22 Xmas Tour Sherlock Holmes Meets Count Dracula by Pat Whymark Call 07807 341364 or book from our website - www.commongroundtc.co.uk
Lady Emilia Adwater engages the services of Sherlock Holmes to investigate the disappearance of her head butler and other domestic staff in her neighbourhood, down in deepest Suffolk. The disappearances coincide with the arrival there of the mysterious Count Dracula who has moved into nearby Carhorn Abbey. Dr. Watson, masquerading as a life insurance rep. is sent to assess the situation, and on his return to Baker Street starts behaving rather strangely. Sherlock Holmes faces his most dangerous adversary. Will he get to the bottom of the mystery, before the Count can carry out his dastardly plan to infiltrate British high society? Can he save the London season from becoming a ravening gorefest? It's a case he can really sink his teeth into! But will the effort of solving it drive him completely bats? Created by the writing team best known for their hugely successful Christmas shows for Eastern Angles, don’t miss this classic comedy mystery peppered with Common Ground’s trademark sparkling wit, ingenious staging and hilarious songs. Running time - 2 hours (including interval). Suitable for adults and older children. TOUR SCHEDULE (NEAREST TO STRADBROKE) and PRICES: Full: £14 U21s/UC: £10 John Peel Centre, Stowmarket Tuesday 21st December, 7.30pm Wednesday 22nd Dec, 4pm & 7.30pm and Thursday 23rd Dec, 4pm 01449 774678 /johnpeelcentre.com The Corn Hall, Diss Saturday 1st January - 4pm & 7.30pm 01379 652241 /cornhall.co.uk See website for other dates and locations. Proceeds to Essex Air Ambulance, supported by The Rotarians of Kelvedon Hatch & Villages www.commongroundtc.co.uk Julian Harries & Pat Whymark
Heveningham Hall Events Return
Our Christmas Market Event has grown in popularity so this year it will be bigger and better. This will be held on Saturday 4 December and run from 12pm till 8pm. To add to the Christmas feel, there will be a synthetic ice skating rink and a train ride across to see Father Christmas in his grotto. This event will now be moved to the Orangery at the back of the Hall. No date has yet been set for the Country Fair. To protect your wellbeing, we will be working with Environmental Health to ensure we are compliant with COVID 19 guidelines. All proceeds from our events go to Heveningham Hall Country Fair Trust, registered charity number 1095403 Mike Stephens
Children’s Society Coffee Morning
Wednesday 12 January 2022, 10.00 – 12.00 at Thirkettle Cottage, Queens Street. Everyone welcome, especially our box holders. We will use the day to empty this year’s boxes and send the contents to the Society. Anyone willing to hold a box for the coming year will be most welcome to join us. Alison Hackett 388872
Join us for Elf Day
Elf Day at The Good, The Bad And The Hungry in Wingfield on Thursday the 16th December from 11am to 2 pm. Raffle prizes gratefully received. Contact us on 384408. In aid of the Alzheimer’s Society. Sharon Clements
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Sports Roundup
Stradbroke Cricket Club
Cricket is receiving a bad press, lately. Terms like 'Institutional Racism', 'Bullying', and 'Sexting' replacing batting, bowling, and fielding! It is, then, a good time to remind everyone that Stradbroke Cricket Club is fully inclusive to all ages, regardless of gender, race, or sexual orientation. If anyone feels that they have been excluded, please speak up now. I am sure that this has not been the case, but a few weeks ago so did the ECB and Yorkshire CCC. With player numbers declining, we need to hear from you if you are a lapsed cricketer of any age, or want to take up the game. Also, if you have friends/family abroad who know someone who wants a Summer's cricket at Stradbroke, to ring me on 07796-465347. Being a good player is not important, but holding a coaching badge, or wanting to get qualified, is. Have a think. The Suffolk County Board has noticed problems also. I attended a very positive meeting about the decline of cricket in rural areas, specifically East Suffolk, recently. There is no magic wand, but we share similar problems, and hopefully can work through them together. I know it is obscenely early, but can we wish you all a Happy, Peaceful, and Safe Christmas, and thank you for your support in 2021. Michael Hugman
Stradbroke Tennis Club
Latest information with regards to exercise for all ages since the start of lockdown in Suffolk are not great. Do you sit indoors with the windows shut and the heating on despite there being ample opportunity to participate in exercise. The Tennis Club has three all-weather courts that are playable throughout the year. It is very easy for you, family and friends to hire a court and enjoy some exercise which is good for your health and mental wellbeing. To hire a court simply contact Everyone Active on 01379 384376. You can book a court at a time that is convenient on any day of the week. Courts are available at £8.00 an hour for adults and £4.00 an hour for under-16s. So why not come and have a game you never know you might enjoy it!! The Tennis Club AGM is on Friday 28th January 2022 at 7.30pm in the Clubroom at the Community Centre. At the meeting the future of the Club for its members will be discussed and agreed. It is vital that members take the opportunity to attend to express their views. A copy of the agenda for the meeting and a covering letter will be sent to all members asking them to make every effort to attend the meeting. The Tennis Club wishes everyone an enjoyable Christmas and are looking forward hopefully to a more active new year for everybody. Kevin Holmes, Secretary Stradbroke Tennis Club
The Stradbroke Strollers (formerly The Stradbroke Walking Group)
We are a community-led informal Walking Group who meet every Thursday and are back with our new name! Please come along and join us for a friendly, gentle 45 minute -1 hour walk and chat around this beautiful Village, meeting outside the Stradbroke Court House at 10.30am. Longer walks can be arranged too, as long as we have enough Walk Leaders. Unless it is really raining or blowing a gale, we will be walking! Everyone is welcome, whatever your age or ability - all you need are sensible shoes and clothing – and we look forward to seeing you and enjoying a chat with a cup of tea, coffee and cake in the Stradbroke Court House Café afterwards. Please be aware that you will be walking at your own risk but I know it will be a really enjoyable stroll. For more information contact Dennis Merritt Tel: 01379 388 382. Email: dennis_merritt@hotmail.com
Circle Dancing
The Circle Dancing group has been meeting for over 10 years to enjoy learning and practicing circle dances from around the world. We are now seeking new members to join us in the new year, commencing on 4th January 2022, for light exercise and enjoyment. This is suitable for most age groups and no partners are required. We meet from 2pm - 4pm on alternate Tuesdays. Come and watch or join in at Stradbroke Community Centre. For more information please contact Thelma 870720 or Vivienne 384118 Vivienne Goffee
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Registered childminder and qualified Montessori teacher. Set in the beautiful hamlet of Wilby. Full and part-time places available for all ages. Open 8am–6pm Tuesday to Friday all year round. For all enquiries, contact Stephanie on: Phone: 07787154143 Email: stephanie.a.harvey01@gmail.com
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News & Views
Chicken Cooperative needs you!
The Chicken Co- Operative needs you. Would you like to help us care for our free range chickens at the allotment. It would entail you letting the chickens out and putting them away, in return you keep any eggs. We also jointly pay for the chickens feed and regularly clean them out. We would love anyone with an interest in chickens to please get in touch, some people have been doing the chickens for a number of years and would now like a break. Sue Childs 01379 384502 Sue Childs
Reduce, reduce, reduce !
My family and I have decided to try to live through a British winter with minimal central heating usage. That doesn’t mean no heating whatsoever, we are very lucky to have a log burner, and if the temperature heads below zero for any prolonged period of time, then one of my frozen digits will be selecting the ‘Run programme’ option on the central heating controller. Why are we doing this? To see if we can; to see if we really need central heating or whether we could actually do away with the boiler one day which would be a huge reduction in our environmental impact as a family (there will, of course, be economic benefit too). I am the first generation of my family to live their entire life in centrally heated homes. My mum was in her thirties before she lived in her first one. Her mum, my grandma, never did. My mum, when young, lived with her parents in a Victorian terraced house which was single skinned (one brick thick walls), had three floors, with one room on each floor, plus cellar, in the middle of the steel works. One fire only, downstairs in the sitting room, where they lived their lives. An old-fashioned coal fired range provided heat for the room, cooking and water in the over-sized kettle. A cold tap in the lean-to slop kitchen provided water. The loo was in the yard outside. If my mum and grandma could live in an uninsulated, crudely built Victorian steel workers terraced house then surely, we can in a relatively new, double glazed, well insulated home. As my mum would have said, “We’ll see”. We are documenting our journey through the winter on Facebook. Follow us by searching for 'Reducing central heating' usage written by Helen Ball. Here is an extract from Thursday 4th November: 'Yesterday evening we had an appointment in Stowmarket which necessitated a car journey. I felt decadent and guilty as I turned up the heat in the vehicle and adjusted the fan to warp speed. I wondered if the vehicle uses extra fuel to generate heat for the passengers or whether the heat from the engine is recycled for our temperate comfort. Maybe someone could tell me. I mentioned my car heating usage to one of my friends, who knows about our no central heating experiment, this morning in the playground. She laughingly said that when she sees me driving round the village in the depths of winter, she will suspect that it is for the luxury of some warm air. I giggled. She shouldn’t be putting ideas of cheating in my head.' Email: helen_c_ball@hotmail.com Helen Ball
BSEVC Buses Covering Ipswich and Mid Suffolk
Door to door for work, medical appointments, social activities, shopping, school college Fares from £2.50. To book: 01449 614271 Lines open 9am-4pm, Mon-Fri Book ahead! Socially-distanced small bus available in Stradbroke Wednesday to Friday. Please ask BSEVC if you want Monday and Tuesday services so they can log your request and inform Suffolk County Council of the demand. A Wisbey
The Dogs Trust
Your local Dogs Trust branch at Snetterton would like to briefly make you aware of a few services that we provide free of charge: The first, our Canine Care Card scheme, is a free service for dog-owners whereby, in the event of their death or illness, we will look after their dog, providing them with all the care they need until we can find a responsible, loving new home for them. This is often a great concern to the elderly, as their dog may be their only friend and companion – Dogs Trust can give them peace of mind, knowing that their canine companions future is safe, should the worst happen to them. Every year, we care for more than 14,000 dogs at our nationwide network of rehoming centres and we never put down a healthy dog Secondly I wanted to make you aware that we provide free talks to local community groups. I cover the whole of the East Anglia region, to talk about the varied work of Dogs Trust, where we come from and where we hope to be in the future. There are no speaker fees or travelling expenses so please let me know if you believe that your local club would be interested. If anyone has any further queries, or would be interested in booking in a talk, please contact me by emailing emily.matthews@dogstrust.org.uk or phone 01953 497912. Emily Matthews
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Etheridge Nurseries Laxfield Road, Tel: 384204 Mob 07881 440140 Hand made Holly Wreaths ready now Home grown and Local Christmas Trees in stock now. Potted Trees, Cut trees from 4ft -9ft tall Norway and Nordaman Our Shop is full of Local Produce Fruit and Vegetables. Local Potatoes Local Sprout Stalks Please check our Facebook Page Etheridge nurseries.
Passmore Weeks & Richardson
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Painting and Decorating by Ron Rankin - 25 Years Experience For All Your Domestic & Commercial Property Maintenance & Decorating Competitive Prices - Professional Standards Reliable & Experienced - Highly Recommended Advice & Quotations With No Obligation Tel: 01379 388243 Mob: 07762 326226
For your Lawnmower & Small Engine Repairs and Servicing Tel: Phillip Cleveland on 388306
Goddess Beauty is a beauty and skin clinic based in Stradbroke. Annabel has over 10 years experience in the beauty industry. Offering the highest quality products and treatments including: Manicure Pedicure Bio sculpture gel Waxing Spray Tan Environ Skincare Jane Iredale Skincare Make Up Lynton lasers - a medical grade IPL system for hair removal and skin rejuvenation I can help with acne, pigmentation, thread veins, port wine stains and much more. For more information check out our website www.goddess-beauty.co.uk Call 07535656044 39 Westhall, Stradbroke
eMail: johnbedwell18@yahoo.co.uk Web:www.angliansalt.co.uk For all your salt supplies of: Hydrosoft tablet & granular salt, pure dried vaccum salt, de-icing salt. Also we stock tablets & granular in 10kg bags. Please contact us for competitive prices either collected or delivered. Tel 01379 854061 Fax 01379 854 804 We offer free delivery to all Stradbroke residents.
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Service and repairs to all cars, light commercial and 4x4’s Specialists in vehicle diagnostics Free local collection and delivery Courtesy car available Prompt attention assured Competitive rates
Open 8:00am - 5:30pm Mon-Fri, 8:00am - 12 noon Saturdays Barley Hall, Laxfield Road, Stradbroke, IP21 5NQ Located on the B1117 1 3/4 miles outside Stradbroke towards Laxfield.
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Hammond Garden & Countryside Services Matthew Hammond
Felix Cottage Horham, Eye Suffolk IP21 5EG Tel: 01379 384643
E J BROWN Builder
Specialising in Conifer reduction. All hedge work and garden clearance. Any size lawn mowed. Rough grass cut & strimmed. Hedges and trees supplied and planted. Small tree work - pruning/felling Lawns turfed and seeded All types of fencing Patios and paths laid. Free estimates, all jobs considered.
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THE CELLPHONE & FAX SPECIALIST
TGA Communications Ltd Purchase your new cellphone from TGA Communications at competitive prices Enquiries welcome 7am to 7pm days a week. We also sell secondhand equipment & part-ex welcome. WE OFFER A FULL RANGE OF CELLULAR PHONES INCLUDING Motorola - Panasonic - Mitsubishi - NEC - Nokia Professional After Sales Service Hire of Equipment (including European use of GSM) For further details: Brundish Rd, Wilby Tel: 01379 388156 Fax 01379 388109
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It feels like everything is getting more and more expensive and with Christmas coming up, I'm really worried about how I'll manage. My partner and I would love to treat our kids but we’re keen to avoid huge debts. Do you have any advice? Christmas can be costly for many of us and we know lots of people are struggling already this year. There can be a lot of pressure to spend more than you can afford, so here are a few key things to remember as we head into 2022. Be realistic and budget accordingly Work out how much you can afford to spend – and stick to it. There’s nothing wrong with managing expectations, and suggesting things such as spending limits, secret Santas or maybe even that you don’t need to swap gifts.
Don’t forget the everyday bills Remember that the rent or mortgage, utility bills, food bills and other existing debts still have to be paid – the consequences can be severe if they’re not. Even though it’s Christmas, it’s not worth starting the New Year being behind on your bills Tempted by Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL)? While it can be tempting to split payments, make sure you have a plan for how to pay the money back - particularly if your circumstances or income were to change. If you're using BNPL repeatedly or using multiple BNPL options, make sure you know how much you owe in total. Make sure you understand what you’re signing up for, how you’ll make the repayments and what will happen if you can’t pay on time. Buy safe to be safe Whatever the deal, whatever the temptation, don’t buy from unauthorised traders and don’t borrow from unauthorised lenders. These could put you at risk of unscrupulous collection methods – including threats and harm, unsafe products and unexpectedly high interest rates. You may also not be protected by Financial Conduct Authority rules Shop around Try as many different places as possible to find the best price. Buy what you want and not what other people say you need. Be wary of extended warranties; the cost of a repair could be less than the cost of the warranty. Get help if you’re struggling Citizens Advice Mid Suffolk can provide advice on this or any other issue, including debt, employment, benefits and family law. You can contact them on 01449 676060 or use the contact form at midsuffolkcab.org.uk/contact-us. For more information and our opening hours go to midsuffolkcab.org.uk. Jaz Last, Community Officer Citizens Advice Mid Suffolk
Please send all articles to editors@stradbrokemonthly.co.uk The Stradbroke Monthly team encourages readers to submit letters to the Editor expressing their opinions, comments or insights regarding any of the material that appears in the magazine. The team will publish letters that reflect the diversity of opinions of our readers, but cannot publish all letters received. The Editor retains the right to edit published letters for clarity and length. Letters should include the writer's name and be clearly marked ‘FOR PUBLICATION’. The advertising contact for new and existing adverts is editors@stradbrokemonthly.co.uk for all your advertising enquiries. Submission Guidelines can be downloaded from stradbrokemonthly.co.uk Handwritten Submission? Articles can also be left in the library and will be collected at 10am on the Saturday after the final submission date. However, it makes our job much easier and more accurate if articles can be submitted via email. If you do not have access to email you can use the computer in the library and the Library manager will happily help you to submit your article.
PLEASE MENTION THE STRADBROKE MONTHLY WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS!
Village Diary December 2021 1st Radio Stradbroke on air from 10 am at www.radiostradbroke.co.uk, and every day 2nd Court House Café open – and every Thursday (see page 10) 2nd Stradbroke Strollers meet outside Court House – and every Thursday (see page 18) 2nd Rustic Barn Craft And Gift Shop late night shopping event in Queen Street (see page 14) 3rd Friday Friends Café at the Court House (see page 10) 4th Court House Café open – and every Saturday (see page 10) 4th Expletives - punk band at Syleham and Wingfield village hall (see page 14) 4th Christmas Cake Stall, 8.30am onwards (see page 4) 5th Christmas lights switch-on at the church (see front page) 7th Contact Club meet in Community centre, and every Tuesday (see page 17) 7th Craft & Natter at the library from 2-4pm and every Tuesday (see page 10) 10th Christmas Bingo iao All Saints Church Fundraising Comm, Community Centre (See page 4) 11th Coffee/ Open event at Syleham and Wingfield village hall (see page 14) 13th Parish Council meeting in the Court House (see page 6) 16th Elf Day at The Good, The Bad And The Hungry (see page 17) 16th Stradbroke cinema showing The Father at the Community Centre (see page 14) 17th Quiz evening at Syleham and Wingfield village hall (see page 14) 21st Christmas walk from Community Centre (see front page) 30th Thursday Afternoon Book Club in the Library (see page 10) 31st New Year's Eve celebration Syleham and Wingfield village hall (see page 14) January 2022 4th Circle Dancing in Community Centre – new members welcome (see page 18) 12th Children’s Society Coffee Morning (see page 17) 13th WI meet in Community Centre at 2pm (see page 10) 14th Bingo iao All Saints Church Fundraising Comm, Community Centre (See page 4) 18th Circle Dancing in Community Centre (see page 18) 20th Over 60s meet in Community Centre (see page 10) 21st Quiz evening at Syleham and Wingfield village hall (see page 14) 21st **Submission deadline for the February edition strictly by this date** 22nd Pre-Burns night celebration at Syleham and Wingfield village hall (see page 14) th 28 Tennis Club AGM in the Club Room at the Community Centre (see page 18)
Useful Phone Numbers Fressingfield and Stradbroke NHS Medical Centres Fressingfield Medical Centre. Tel: 01379 586456 / 586227 Stradbroke Medical Centre. Tel: 01379 388313 / 384220 www.fressingfield-medical-practice.co.uk Samaritans: 116 123 24hours Citizens Advice: 03444 111 444 9am – 5pm weekdays Shelter: 0344 515 1860 8am - 8pm weekdays, 9am - 5pm weekends ACAS: 0800 470 0616 24hours Relate: 0300 0030396 BOOKING appt. Monday-Thursday: 8am to 8pm, Friday: 8am to 6pm, Saturday: 9am to 1pm Universal Credit: 0800 328 5644 Chemist 01379 870 233 (Eye) 01379 642 436(Diss Boots) Norfolk And Norwich University Hospital 01603 286 286 Ipswich Hospital 01473 712 233