www.stradbrokemonthly.co.uk
May 2020
No.462
The COVID-19 Stradbroke Noticeboard STRADBROKE
SEE PAGE 12 FOR MORE INFO
Help from Good Neighbours during the Coronavirus trouble.
Whilst we hope neighbours and friends will help each other the Good Neighbour Volunteers would like to offer help to any residents who need to Self Isolate or are Social distancing. We could deliver essentials:food, medication etc to your doorstep. Information on the website or phone GN phone :07749445531 SEE PAGE 3 FOR MORE INFO
STRADBROKE POST OFFICE Monday 14:00 – 17:00 Tuesday 14:00 – 17:00 Wednesday Closed Thursday 09:00 – 13:00 14:00 – 17:00 Friday 14:00 – 17:00 Saturday 09:00 – 13:00 Sunday Closed facebook.com/StradbrokeCourthouse/ SEE PAGE 12 FOR MORE INFO
The Stradbroke Village Website Facebook Page is continuously updating latest news and information to residents of Stradbroke. See the feed on the News page on www.stradbroke.org.uk or www.facebook.com/Stradbrokeweb #CV19INFO Mid Suffolk District Council has suspended brown bin garden waste collections. They have also requested that residents DO NOT HAVE BONFIRES the smoke & fumes can be very dangerous for neighbours with COVID-19
Stradbroke and Fressingfield Doctors Surgeries This information is from the Doctors Website. For up to date information always check the website at https://www.fressingfield-medical-practice.co.uk/ PHONE LINES – There is unprecedented demand on our phone lines, please bear with us. You can reach us on any of the phone numbers below: 01379 586456 or 01379 586227 or 01379 388313 or 01379 384220 If you are presenting with either a new cough or fever, please follow NHS England advice and selfisolate. DO NOT COME TO THE PRACTICE IF YOU HAVE EITHER OF THESE SYMPTOMS go to http://111.nhs.uk for full advice For your safety we have measures in place to restrict the number of patients in the waiting room, Dispensary & Reception areas at any one time For all telephone consultations the doctor or Juliet & Carol will contact you on the day of your appointment as near to your appointment time as possible by telephone. Be aware that the clinician may be delayed. If following this telephone conversation it is felt that you require a face to face appointment they will arrange this with you. Lots of people are asking if we are open as normal for medication collections - we are - just please ensure you provide the 4 working days notice. The dispensary at Fressingfield will close between 1pm and 2pm every day. The dispensary at Stradbroke is operating a “one in, one out” system. Please continue to order your medications in the normal way – online or posting them through our letterboxes. It is unsafe practice to take medication orders over the telephone. Both Medical Centres have letterboxes on the outside of the buildings. Please do not order more medications than you need as we will be unable to provide double issues or medications that are not yet due. The NHS have told us “Practices should not change their repeat prescription durations or support patients trying to stockpile: these actions may put a strain on the supply chain and exacerbate any potential shortages” If you are unable to collect medications, your families, neighbours and friends can pick up medications for you if you provide them with consent to do so. If you do not have anyone that can help you there are now a number of volunteer schemes.. Many of you will be aware of the Stradbroke Good Neighbours scheme - 07749 445531 who will be able to help you. Please ensure the person collecting your medications has your full name and address and if you are under 60 the details of the relevant box to tick on the back of the prescription.
https://www.fressingfield-medical-practice.co.uk/
Local Churches
Stradbroke Baptist Church
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Stradbroke Baptist Church, Laxfield Road, Stradbroke, Suffolk Due to COVID-19 no services or events will be held at the Chapel until further notice. Home Worship – God willing, a ‘suggestion only’ Home Worship Service will be available each Sunday and Wednesday mornings. If you would like one of these for yourself or on behalf of others please contact me on 01379 388744 or by email at psalm34.8@yahoo.com. These can be emailed to all or hand delivered in Stradbroke. "you may unsubscribe from these at any time". I will be at the Chapel: Sundays 10-11:30am, Tuesdays 11:00-12:30pm, & Thursdays 2-4pm should you wish to come and pray, meditate, sing, or chat/have a cuppa at a safe distance. Until we meet again: “The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” ’ Bruce Francis - Pastor 01379 388744 07484 219 265 psalm34.8@yahoo.com
Waveney Food Bank
Our foodbank is a project founded by local churches and community groups, working together towards stopping hunger in our local area. We cover the areas in and around… Harleston, Diss, Eye, Botesdale, Banham, The Buckenhams, Long Stratton, Newton Flotman, Poringland, Brooke, Halesworth,Metfield, Beccles, Bungay, Laxfield, Stradbroke, Hoxne, Debenham, Framlingham and Wickham Market. How does a foodbank work? We know that crisis can strike anyone and we also understand how difficult it can be to think about walking through a foodbank door. That’s why our foodbank volunteers aim to welcome everyone who comes to the foodbank with compassion, kindness and a listening ear. MEETING YOUR NEEDS Your foodbank voucher will be exchanged for three days of emergency food. We want to make sure that we give you the right food to meet your needs, so please do let our volunteers know if you have any special dietary requirements or allergies, for example, gluten free, halal or vegetarian. PREPARING YOUR FOOD Whilst your food parcel is being prepared, a volunteer will offer you a warm drink and a biscuit. They will also be available if you would like to have a chat. Your food parcel will be packed into supermarket carrier bags. If you prefer to bring your own bags those can be used instead. PRACTICAL GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT Foodbank volunteers take the time to listen and support you. They are specially trained to know about local services and offer practical guidance so that you have access to the right support, helping you to break out of crisis. More Information : https://waveney.foodbank.org.uk/
Stradbroke Good Neighbours
Telephone: 07749445531 Do you need our help? For example, a lift to the surgery, or to a hospital for an appointment? Can we pick up a prescription for you? Change a light bulb? Check your smoke alarm? Then contact Good Neighbours. We only charge for mileage. Our friendly volunteers will be happy to help. We would appreciate at least 24 hours notice please. The Good Neighbour AGM will take place in the Club room at the Community Centre on May 11th at 10.30 am. All welcome.
Carol Darling & Jane Gemmill
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Local Churches
All Saints, Stradbroke Revd Canon Susan Loxton 01379 388493. Church wardens, Peter Chetwynd 384069; Karen Ruth 388762 If you have any questions about Baptisms, Weddings or Funerals, or any questions about the Faith, please contact Revd Canon Susan. There will be no services in church for the time being but we are working on ways to keep in contact and continue to worship in other ways. Follow this link to be part of worship even though we have to stay safe in our homes sancroftbeneficechurches.org gives daily spoken morning and evening prayers Our Facebook page @sancroftbeneficechurches will give you the current interactive YouTube link for a service of reflection, prayer and singing –only you will hear yourself! – ready for 10 am every Sunday If you are missing meeting for fellowship and chatting, or would have liked that opportunity in these dark and difficult times, think about joining our phone tree if you are not already linked in. Either call Revd Susan or Peter to be given a link.
All Saints Church Fundraising Committee
Not much to report this month. Pat Fill is in Hartismere Place Care Home after coming out of hospital. She has just celebrated her birthday and the committee wishes her well. The Art Exhibition has been cancelled due to Covid-19, but hopefully will take place later in the year. The sponsorship will be carried on until we hold the exhibition. I think we should thank both Susan Loxton and Bruce Francis from the church and chapel for sending out the details of the services on broadband. Much appreciated. M Ellis
From the Rectory…
Dear friends and neighbours These are strange times we are living in; however, I am so proud of the way so many people are helping their neighbours with getting shopping, prescriptions and chatting on the phone, as well of course all those who have been working non-stop during this time. Also, my heart goes out to all who are struggling with health, isolation, missing family and friends, the anxious and distressed. I can’t do much to relieve you of much of this, but I can do three things: • I can listen to you, I am at the end of a phone and if I am not in, I will ring you back. It doesn’t have to be about anything particular, but if you need to talk to someone, I can help. • If money is short and you are running out of food, I can help by arranging a delivery from the foodbank. • I can pray for you and those you love.
For any of the above you can contact me by phone on 01379 388493 or email revloxton@gmail.com. I know it is hard to ask for help but please don’t suffer on your own, we all need some help now and then. When I am struggling with something there are a few verses in the bible that I often turn to, I share them with you now: Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. I believe it. God loves you, even if sometimes he feels far away, he sees you and wants the best for you. So, brothers and sisters take heart, do what you can and leave the rest to God. And remember that day always follows night, sunshine comes after the rain, and we will soon meet again with friends and family, what a celebration it will be! God bless, Susan
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Parish Pump A key number for those in need of help during the COVID-19 crisis: HOME BUT NOT ALONE - 0800 876 6926
Odile Wladon (Clerk)
Mobile: 07555 066147 Email: stradbrokepc@outlook.com Website: https://www.stradbrokepc.org/ Mill Hill House, Church Lane, Wickham Skeith IP23 8NA The Clerk will continue to undertake Parish Council business and can be contacted using the details printed above.
Updates received from government agencies will be uploaded to the News section of the Parish Council website: https://www.stradbrokepc.org/latest-news and shared on the Facebook page. Suffolk County Council are regularly updating their COVID-19 information page on their website, which can be viewed at: https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/ Mid Suffolk District Council also have a dedicated page on their website for information you may find useful: https://www.babergh.gov.uk/features/our-covid-19-response/
Stradbroke Parish Council information:
The Parish Council is currently holding meetings “virtually” until further notice. Draft minutes will be uploaded to the Parish Council website as soon as they are available. Video recordings of both the Finance Committee and the Full Council meeting are available on the Parish Council’s Facebook page: facebook.com/StradbrokePC Details of all meetings which the Council will hold will be published on the Parish Council’s website: https://www.stradbrokepc.org/. A notice will posted be on the Facebook page when documents are uploaded to the website or meetings are called. Agendas for all Council committee and full meetings will continue be issued only on the Parish Council website (https://www.stradbrokepc.org/documents), and will not be posted on the noticeboard or be made available in the Post Office/Library until the current restrictions are lifted. Any comments the public wish to raise during the public forum section of a meeting can be submitted to the Clerk who will raise them at the appropriate time. Full guidance is given in the agenda. The Annual Parish Meeting and Open Event and the Parish Council’s AGM have been postponed. MEETING OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE – 6th April 2020 The Finance Committee met via video conference and reviewed documents for submission to the full Council for approval. The following were agreed: • Year-end Accounts for 2019/20 • Explanations on variances 2019/20 vs 2018/19 • Ringfenced Reserves • CIL Report • Asset Register In addition, a revised budget for the year 2020/21 was thoroughly reviewed and discussed. The revisions were recommended to the full Council for approval. Quotes for works were reviewed and recommendations for contractors required were submitted to the Council for approval. The Committee members agreed to dedicate a full committee meeting to reviewing quotes received for the works needed on the health centre to replace the water heaters and taps, and undertake urgent maintenance on the building.
MEETING OF STRADBROKE PARISH COUNCIL – 20th April 2020 Page 7
Planning Applications reviewed by the Parish Council at this meeting: DC/20/01198 – Land to the South of, New Street: Variation of conditions 7, 8 & 9 – NO OBJECTIONS DC/20/01337 – Pond & Meadow Cottages, Street Farm, Laxfield Road: Lawful development certificate – NO COMMENTS SUBMITTED DC/20/01415 – Barley Green Garage, Laxfield Road IP21 5JX: Outline planning for 6 dwellings – OBJECTIONS SUBMITTED Parish Council updates: · Councillors approved changes to the Standing Orders (to allow virtual meetings). · Councillors approved changes to the Financial Regulations (to delegate authority to the Finance Committee and increase the limit for emergency works). · To avoid breaching the Financial Regulations the Clerk will be issued with a multi pay card, this will enable the Clerk to purchase items for the Council without having to use her own card. · Councillors approved all the year-end documents submitted by the Finance Committee. · The Annual Governance Statement for the year 2019/20 was reviewed and approved. · Councillors reviewed the Internal Audit report and noted that no audit points were raised. · The figures in the Accounting statement were approved. · A revised budget for the year 2020/21 was agreed with changes made to include approximately £28,000 for works required at the Health Centre, these works are to be funded from the rent received and the contributions received from development in the village. · Councillors approved a response to the Joint Local Plan Scoping Report consultation for submission to Mid Suffolk. Thanks were expressed to Cllr Chris Edwards for the comprehensive piece of work produced. · The Clerk updated the meeting that work on the land registration continues. · Investigations into the ownership of land at Wilby Road obtained in a swap with Suffolk County Council, is on hold until SCC offices reopen. · The Councillors agreed contractors for the tree works and approved that the trees at the tennis courts should be cut back to the previous pruning height level with the fence. · The recordings of Parish Council meetings are available at: https://www.stradbrokepc.org/podcast · All Parish Council papers, accounts and information can be found at: www.stradbrokepc.org
From the Chair
Like everyone else the Council is getting used to the “new normal” and we have held two meetings by video conference this month. This has been an interesting experience for everyone! You can see how we got on by taking a look on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/StradbrokePC where we have posted videos of the meetings. A big thank you to all councillors for working together and to our clerk Odile for all her extra work to make this happen. We did have some important business to discuss. At this time we are all particularly aware of the importance of our local NHS services. Stradbroke is very fortunate to have its own doctors surgery and pharmacy that has been a real life-line during this crisis. Councillors agreed to budget the sum of £28,000 towards maintenance and improvement work at the surgery that will be undertaken once the current situation allows. This work will include replacing windows, flooring, taps, water heating and air conditioning. We dealt with several planning applications this month and have arrangements in place to ensure we can still scrutinise any applications through our Planning Committee via email and video conferencing. We won’t be having a meeting in May so our next scheduled meeting is 7.30pm on Monday 8th June. We expect this to be via video conference so keep an eye on our website http://stradbrokepc.org for full details. Members of the public can still take part in our online meetings by requesting a dial-in code from the clerk - our district and county councillors joined us in this way for our last meeting. I hope you all stay safe and well. James Hargrave, Chair, Stradbroke Parish Council
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Here’s my advert!
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Want to advertise in The Stradbroke Monthly? Here’s the low down...
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How long can I have my advert in the Monthly?
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Advertisements are taken for a full year 01 April to 31 March. How much will it cost? Charges are dependent on the location of the advertiser as follows: Stradbroke based: Quarter page £52 pa Eighth page £37pa Non Stradbroke based: Eighth page £47pa Sponsored Inside Front Cover Page £25 per edition Flyers and Inserts are not accepted. What if I put my advert in mid year? Payment for adverts listed part way through the year is on a pro rata basis. Invoices are, thereafter, sent annually for payment in advance. If the space is no longer required please inform the Monthly as soon as possible!
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Rachel Lead
KFRP (Adv), LCSP (Phys), Cert Ed
Remedial Massage, Reflexology Touch for Health – Kinesiology rachelpbck@gmail.com www.ukkinesiology.com 01379 388031 07733 105752
Please send your advert to editors@stradbrokemonthly.co.uk
Email: marty@martynorris.co.uk
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Dirty Oven??
Friendly & Helpful Service From Adie
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Organisations
Stradbroke Archive
In 1999 the call went out to anyone who was interested in the village past to meet at The Priory Coach House just to talk about the history of the village. For those who were there, it was a special time, when the seeds of the Stradbroke Local History Group were planted. Separately and around that time, in celebration of the new millennium, Suffolk Records Office presented the village with a set of approximately 150 printed photographs of Stradbroke known as the Webb series. They are housed at the library and are there for anyone who wishes to look at them, and believe me, they are well worth the time. These pictures were produced from glass plates now held at Ipswich. A few of the images were mounted in frames and now hang at the Community Centre. Stradbroke has been more than blessed with superb photographers. Our earliest photographer (active c1861 1880) was Henrietta Ryle who was the wife of the vicar. Without her pictures we wouldn’t have a graphic record of the opening of the school or the refurbishment of the church. Seeing Revd .J C Ryle in his tall hat, standing in the middle of the village with others is a treat we can only thank her for. Sadly, she was always behind the camera and so we have no photograph of her. Henrietta took photographs as a pastime. She was followed by William Girling (active c1885-1904). William was a different kind of artist. This was a living. He had a studio at his grocer shop and took many of the portraits that were so popular of that time. He did go out and about as well and recorded the social history of his era but it’s the study of people that stands out. Harry Webb (active c1895-1954) follows. Harry was the village postmaster. Again, photography was a passion which lasted his lifetime William Girling and it’s Harry’s work that captures moments in time which are not only pleasing to look at but are used so often in understanding the progression of events. His pictures have become tools. As postmaster he was probably best placed to know and to see changes and events that possibly others just accepted. Harry died in 1954 by which time the amazing talents of Geoffrey Smith (active c1950-1990) were rising. Cameras were now portable in the true sense of the word and Geoffrey was never far away from his. Prolific is the only way to describe his output. This was his hobby but that undersells his talent. Whenever something was happening in the village, Geoffrey was there recording the Harry Webb event. We have him to thank for those early pictures of the modern school, fetes, weddings, and of course, Marty’s schooldays disco! Now, almost everything is digital. Not a moment in time is missed. Whatever happens a record is made by someone/anyone who has a phone and is present. Often those huge numbers of photos end up on social media such as Facebook or Instagram. Somehow, we need to make sure that a more permanent record is kept. We are seeing some stunning images of Stradbroke from Jon Wilson - mainly landscapes or skyscapes – and we should find a way to hold on to all these photographs for the future. Anyway, that meeting of the history group back in 1999 has produced, over the years, an archive of images which can be viewed at www.stradbrokearchive.org.uk Geoffrey Smith This month we have needed to isolate. We stay indoors. Time to catch up on everything, look through outstanding archive ‘stuff’. The Ipswich Journal of 1886 was a good read. No really! The board of the Hoxne Union workhouse met. The ‘paupers’ had moved to Eye in 1871 but there was something called ‘the pest-house’ still in use. The discussion was about the use of this facility for a serious outbreak of smallpox and scarlet fever in the area. Questions were asked about preparations when it was clear the disease was coming. The board also looked at the water problem for the Union. There had been a problem of the sewage leaking into the drinking water which was obtained from a well which had partially collapsed and although the repair had been done the argument was that the wrong type of clay had been used and the problem not solved. It was noted that the water from the ditch on the other side of the road was so much better. The Board discussed isolation, doctors, and always, who covers what cost. Further on they ask why a drunk child had been sent to an asylum when he was sane, and they ask for acceptance of an apology given by one of the Board for swearing! All we must do – the Stradbroke of 2020 - is stay at home and not light bonfires! SARA Ann Readman
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KENT SKIPS
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Organisations
Stradbroke Court House and Library News The Post Office is open as normal during lockdown: Monday: 2-5pm Tuesday: 2-5pm Wednesday: closed Thursday: 9am-1pm, 2-5pm Friday: 2-5pm Saturday: 9-1pm Sunday: closed Stradbroke Library All Suffolk Libraries are currently closed and the book request service is cancelled at present, so you cannot order anything in. However as the Post Office is open, you can still take books out on your library cards in Stradbroke library and return them, as long as we still have some on the shelves. All overdue charges incurred from 17th March onwards have been suspended. Some small person has left a very sweet mummy kangaroo with a baby in its pouch behind in the childrens’ section of the library. If this is yours please come in and pick it up as they want to go home. Court House Cafe The Court House Café is closed until further notice. Rest assured we shall re-open as soon as possible when we feel it is safe to do so. Maureen John Post Office/Library Manager
Lottery Bonus Winners
41 C Howes; 11 F Lloyd; 25 G Cooper. £24 donated to Over 60s club, £48 donated to White Hart Bowls Club. The lottery will cease to run until I am able to collect again when we get over the lockdown. M Ellis
Radio Stradbroke
Agreeing to broadcast seven days a week, rather than one, has proved to be a successful leap of faith for Radio Stradbroke. From conservatories, living rooms, bedrooms, loft, & home offices, our 'Home Service' runs daily from 10am to 2pm, incorporating local news as well as the best music. It is designed to keep everyone up to date with local shops, businesses, & services, their opening times, & how you can help them. If you fit into any of these categories, get in touch by email on studio@radiostradbroke.co.uk telling us what is going on with you. We can then let villagers know. 'Home Service' started on March 25th, with lockdown extended, we will be here for a while yet. Log on to www.radiostradbroke.co.uk every day. Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far. Finally, a decision on whether 'Stradbroke Music Day' takes place on July 11th, will be made at the beginning of June. We all need something to look forward to! Michael Hugman
Radio Stradbroke DJ’s now broadcasting daily from home –L to R Richard Pierce, Kim Bannon, Owen Hargrave Listen in at radiostradbroke.co.uk 10am—2pm daily.
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Poppies & Daisies Tearoom
Antique Restoration
Ian Brown LCGI
Come and visit our vintage style tearooms in the heart of Stradbroke. We offer classic Afternoon Teas, Cream Teas, Over 30 Loose Leaf Teas, Homemade Cakes & Scones and Hot & Cold Food Served all day
Poppies and Daisies 2 Town House, Church Street, Stradbroke, IP21 5HT Tel; 07921512052
Find us on Facebook & Instagram
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Poems to the Editors
If We Had Known (And a curse to all carpers!) If we had known the world was round, The sailors would not have set forth to drownOff the edge of the flattened disc, Just past the choppy Bay of Bisc. If we had known the wax would melt On the wings of Icarus, no doubt We would have flown off into space And left this old world, post haste. If we had known a little sooner, That there was to be virus, Coruna, (Oh carping pundits, who ‘know’ the score, Before honest men who battle at the fore. If you had the know and been our leaders, I wonder who would have be left to feed us, Keeping us safe, and guarding the Nation, Whilst you were safe inside your location?) If you had known the world would be, From China to the Sargasso Sea, Full of vile virus paying its deadly callsTell us what would you have done,- Know it alls? If we can cease wasting breath, and do our best With what we learn, know, and guess, We can beat this challenge, pulling together, With energy, solidarity, and decent endeavour. So let’s say ‘Thank you’ to all who care, Neighbours, friends, and the volunteer, Leaders, nurses, carers, food purveyors and all, Bin men, bankers, services big and small. Let’s not forget too, those who have, gone. -Quietly released without a song.And thank our God for our own set fate. Be kind to this world, before it is too late!
If we had only known?
RGW. 2020
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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
Specialist in all types of paving and hard landscaping, driveways, patios, ornamental garden walls, water features, drainage and fencing. Pressure washing of drives and patios. Family run business with over 25 years experience. Fast friendly professional service. Fully insured and all work guaranteed. For a friendly visit with a free quotation call Mark on: 01379 677027 or Mobile 07768636618
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Message to families about school travel
Is your child eligible for SCC funded school travel? If they are, you will need to opt-in by 31 May 2020 to receive travel for the start of the 2020/2021 school term. If your child already receives SCC funded travel you still need to opt-in every year. If your child is starting secondary school in September 2020 and they are eligible for SCC funded school travel you will be contacted by the 30 March 2020. You will need to opt-in if you would like your child to use this service. If your child is starting primary school in September 2020 and they are eligible for SCC funded school travel you will be contacted by the 15 May. You will need to opt in if you would like your child to use this service. For more information on the SCC school travel policy and getting your child to school please visit; www.suffolkonboard.com/optin
Here Together: Today And Tomorrow
St Elizabeth Hospice launches urgent appeal for support While preparing to cope with the impact of Coronavirus on its end of life care and bereavement services over the coming weeks, St Elizabeth Hospice has launched an urgent appeal to the public to support their local hospice in light of all fundraising events being postponed and all 31 retail shops closing. The clinical staff at St Elizabeth are working in partnership with the NHS and partners at speed to significantly expand our services both in the community and at the hospice in response to Coronavirus, whilst continuing to care for patients with non-Covid end of life and palliative care needs. A new rapid response co-ordination centre has been created in the past week to cope with the expected increase in demand for clinical advice and end of life care in the community, doubling the capacity of the hospice’s existing OneCall telephone advice helpline. Last year, the hospice cared for over 3,000 Suffolk patients and their families at a cost of £10.5m, of which 75% was raised by the community through the shops and local fundraising – income-generating activities which are now impossible due to social distancing and self-isolation. Chief Executive Ru Watkins has called on the local community to support the hospice’s new “Here Together” appeal to highlight the role of St Elizabeth at the clinical frontline of the current pandemic and to make sure that its end of life care can continue unaffected when the crisis is over: “Every family who has come into contact with our consultants, doctors, nurses, carers and volunteers over the years knows how dedicated they are to our local community. We are still here with our patients delivering the care they need today so ask everyone to support our efforts together.” With all fundraising events postponed or cancelled, many supporters are looking for alternative ways to support the hospice. As local supporter Wendy Goddard says, “St Elizabeth Hospice was there for me and my family when my daughter Zoe sadly passed away and their support was outstanding. Last month I was due to hold a Charity Night for 300 people to raise funds to support the hospice but sadly this has had to be postponed. I would ask you to do what you can in this time of need to support our local hospice together.” The “Here Together” appeal is being launched across the hospice’s social media platforms to raise awareness of St Elizabeth’s frontline role in continuing to care for some of Suffolk’s most vulnerable patients throughout the pandemic and our shared commitment as a community to protecting its vital services today and tomorrow. To donate to the appeal, visit the hospice Just Giving appeal page https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/SEHCoronavirusAppeal or call the hospice on 01473 723600. To find out how to get involved or fundraise for us then please contact your local representative, Community Fundraiser Jo Beattie. Tel: 07827 835 695 Email: joanne.beattie@stelizabethhospice.org.uk Jo Beattie
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Sports Roundup
Stradbroke Cricket Club
Normally, by the time you read this, I would be reporting on the Cricket Club's opening match, how successful our annual Horse Race Evening had been, and plans to start Junior coaching at the Club, as well as in Schools. As it is, Horse Race Evening is postponed until a later date, Schools are closed, there is more birdsong than children laughing, while the only thing moving from one end of the cricket pitch is the tumbleweed. True, the grass has been cut, a stoic gesture to make it look a little like Summer, but the Committee's main task this month has been to put an emergency funding application together for the ECB, the result of losing vital fund raising, match fees, and sponsorship. We are all aware that cricket is well down the food chain, but we are determined not to let Coronavirus defeat us, the toughest fixture we have ever taken part in. Michael Hugman
Stradbroke and District Bowls Club
Hello everyone, As you will appreciate due to the corona virus there is little to comment on a part from the sincere wish that you are all coping with the difficult restraints placed on us all with the lockdown. At times like this we all appreciate the kindness and help that we all give to each other, and of course the medical teams at the surgeries, and the shops that are opening where possible to keep us supplied with the essentials. As with all other clubs and organizations we look forward to when we can get back to normal day to day living and to physically get back together. Regards to you all, Roy Lee (on behalf of the committee of the club)
Tennis Club
At this time of the year the Club would normally be sending out invitations to members to renew their membership. Due to the Covid19 pandemic and guidance with regards to social gathering and self-isolation the Club has decided to renew all current membership for a further year without payment in the hope that members will be able to play later in the year. As Everyone Active is currently closed Non-Members will not be able to hire courts until the Centre reopens. Should you require any further information with regards to the Tennis Club please give me a call on 01379 384557. Stay safe. Kevin Holmes Secretary Stradbroke Tennis Club
Stradbroke Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre
Everyone Active are offering lots of information and advice around maintaining a health lifestyle during lockdown. If you have Facebook, their Facebook page—https://www.facebook.com/eaStradbroke/ is full of useful links and ideas.
Letters to the Editors
I would like to say a big THANK YOU to Radio Stradbroke for daily keeping me and everyone else in the village informed and in touch with life through these difficult days. It really is appreciated. I listen every day, and enjoy most of the music but it's the chat from the DJs that is very welcome. May I also thank those people who, like me, are itching to lite a bonfire, for resisting and just not doing it. Ann Readman.
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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 and Views
MSDC Small Business and Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Funds
Businesses across Babergh and Mid Suffolk can access financial support during the COVID-19 crisis in the form of Government grant funding. These grants are not loans and will not need to be repaid. All qualifying businesses are being asked to complete a short online form to confirm payment details and eligibility. Businesses are able to claim only one of the following grants. · £10,000; if the rateable value of the business premises is £15,000 or less, or · £25,000 if the rateable value is greater than £15,000 but less than £51,000 Businesses are now starting to receive these grant payments. If you have not been contacted by us and believe your business is eligible, please use the online form to submit your details. BE AWARE: We have reports of companies contacting small businesses and charging a fee to apply for these grants on their behalf. No local authorities are charging a fee and all qualifying businesses are entitled to access the grant. If you are unsure whether you qualify or have any queries, please contact the Business Rate Team.
Government COVID-19 support for business
To help businesses navigate the financial support available, the Government has launched a new ‘support finder’ tool for businesses and self-employed people. The finder tool will ask business owners to fill out a simple online questionnaire and they will then be directed to a list of all the financial support they may be eligible for which could include: · a Coronavirus Job Retention Schemes · deferring VAT and Income Tax payments · a Self-employment Income Support Scheme · a Statutory Sick Pay relief package for small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) · a 12-month business rates holiday for all retail, hospitality, leisure and nursery businesses in England · small business grant funding of £10,000 for all business in receipt of small business rate relief or rural rate relief · grant funding of £25,000 for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses with property with a rateable value between £15,000 and £51,000 · the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme offering loans of up to £5 million for SMEs through the British Business Bank · a new lending facility from the Bank of England to help support liquidity among larger firms, helping them bridge coronavirus disruption to their cash flows through loans · the HMRC Time To Pay Scheme The Government is continuing to update its COVID-19 Business Support website. More information and support is available from the New Anglia Growth Hub, where trained advisers can provide guidance and support on a range of matters. In addition to Government packages, businesses and SMEs are being advised to speak to their banks about support and financial packages that may be available to help them during this difficult time. Go to https://www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/features/support-available-for-businesses-in-babergh-and-mid-suffolk/ for more information.
All Suffolk County Council COVID-19 Advice and Information
Please use this link here, which is kept up to date, and can be accessed off the Suffolk CC Webpage https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/
Suffolk County Council Service Changes
Advice and information concerning changes in SCC services is available here: https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/service-changes/
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Etheridge Nurseries Laxfield Road, Tel: 384204 Mob 07881 440140
Thank you for all your support over this difficult time. Larger selection of local vegetables & fruit. In our Farm Shop. Ready now Vegetables, Bedding & Hanging Plants. Baskets made up to order. Fruit & Vegetables delivered to your door. Please email wint532@hotmail.co.uk. Orders over ÂŁ25 for plants & compost can be delivered
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
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
Dan Poulter, MP
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As I sit to write this month’s article, we find ourselves living in incredibly challenging circumstances. Never in peacetime has a Prime Minister or his Government been faced with such difficult decisions. From the very beginning of this crisis, our Prime Minister and Government have been led by the advice of our world-leading scientists. We all need to recognise that our NHS, like any other health service, has only a limited number of doctors, nurses and specialist equipment. So, the more people who become sick at any one time, the harder it is for the NHS to cope. This is why it is so important to delay the spread of the disease and reduce the number of people needing hospital treatment at any one time. I really cannot stress enough the importance of our Prime Minister’s message to Stay At Home, Protect Our NHS and Save Lives. Here in Suffolk, we have a great track record of coming together to help those in need and to support each other and I’m pleased to be able to share details of a new Suffolk-based community service supporting those in need during the COVID-19 outbreak. Called “Home, but not alone” the service connects people who want to volunteer in their communities with neighbours who are most in need. Volunteers can sign up via a free app, ‘Tribe Volunteer’ and the phone number for those in need of genuine help is 0800 876 6926. Lines will be staffed from 9am to 5pm 7 days a week. I would like to personally pay tribute to all our outstanding NHS staff working tirelessly around the clock, in incredibly challenging circumstances, caring for those not only affected by COVID 19, but also who are still needing care under normal circumstances. I would also like to put on record my thanks to our local council staff, our teachers and school workers, police, transport workers and everyone doing their bit in our communities to help and look out for each other. I am incredibly proud of everyone rising to the challenge and helping to support those in need in our communities. These are unprecedented times in our generation and I also know that a great many of you will be worried about your jobs, our schools and money. I’m doing my very best to keep my website up to date with helpful and current information, so please do check there if you have any queries – www.drdanielpoulter.com By the time this article goes to press and finds its way to you, matters may well have progressed further, but the best advice I can offer is stay at home, help to protect our NHS, help to stop the spread of COVID-19 and save lives. For more information please visit www.drdanielpoulter.com
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 librarian will happily help you to submit your article.
PLEASE MENTION THE STRADBROKE MONTHLY WHEN CONTACTING ADVERTISERS!
Village Diary May 1st Radio Stradbroke on air from 10 am www.radiostradbroke.co.uk and every day 22nd **Deadline for submissions for June edition strictly by this date**
Web Links for up to date COVID19 Lockdown information Radio Stradbroke The Home Service—Daily 10-2pm—music and information. Send messages to friends and share info. www.radiostradbroke.co.uk or on the free TuneIn app (Search Radio Stradbroke)
Home But Not Alone Suffolk urged to rally together as new local COVID-19 app and phoneline launched to connect volunteers and people who need help. The free app, called Tribe Volunteer, can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The telephone number for those in genuine need of help is freephone 0800 876 6926 and will be staffed from 09:00 to 17:00, seven days a week.
Stradbroke Good Neighbours Whilst we hope neighbours and friends will help each other the Good Neighbour Volunteers would like to offer help to any residents who need to Self Isolate or are Social distancing. We could deliver essentials:- food, medication etc to your doorstep. Information on the website http://www.stradbrokeonline.org.uk/facilities/services/good-neighbours/ or phone GN- 07749445531
Stradbroke Village Website Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Stradbrokeweb (and on https://www.stradbroke.org.uk/your-news), for National COVID19 news as it happens and messages from local businesses and services giving updates on what is available.
Stradbroke Parish Council https://www.stradbrokepc.org/ and https://www.facebook.com/StradbrokePC/ Stradbroke Parish Council are sharing information about local services and advice for residents. Keep checking the sites for online Parish Council Meetings info.
Mid Suffolk District Council https://www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/
Suffolk County Council https://www.suffolk.gov.uk
NHS Coronavirus Advice https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
Government Coronavirus: What you need to do https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
BBC Explainers—Your COVID19 Questions https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/explainers
The Stradbroke Monthly https://www.stradbrokemonthly.co.uk—all current and archive Monthly’s online. The Stradbroke Monthly is currently available online only at http://stradbrokemonthly.co.uk