The Stradbroke Monthly - October 2022

5 days a week BSEVC Buses for Stradbroke!

Covid-protected, door to door for work, hospitals and medical appointments, social clubs and activities, visiting relatives and friends, shopping, school or college. Even more helpful now with higher fuel prices.

Under 16 years: £1 per journey

Registered carers free when supporting a passenger. A range of places including Diss, Harleston. Ask about others when you book. To book: 01449 614271 Lines open 9am-4pm, Mon-Fri www.bsevc.co.uk Please use the bus!

Cllr Richard Smith, Suffolk County Cabinet Member for Economic Development,Transport Strategy and Waste says: “…..‘use it or lose it’ applies because if people do not use buses… they become economically unviable…The loss of a bus service can have a highly detrimental effect on those who rely on it.” “Passengers are the lifeblood of any bus service which is why I ask that if you have a journey to make… then please consider using (the bus)… less vehicles on the roads also means cleaner air and the reduction of carbon emissions… of benefit to us all. “

Toni

Wisbey

Citizens Advice Mid Suffolk

“I’ve got loads of problems with my house that I’ve been putting off fixing - a faulty boiler, a window that won’t shut properly, broken light fittings. The list goes on! I want to sort it out but I’ve had bad experiences with dodgy builders in the past. How do I find someone I can trust?”

Making home improvements can be stressful, but there are a few steps you can follow to help it go smoothly.

First, find a Trading Standards ‘approved trader’. It’s also worth checking if they’re a current member of a trade body. Trade bodies have codes of practice and can help resolve problems if things go wrong. Ask who they’re registered with and then check the trade body’s website. For any gas and electric fixes, only use certified traders - it’s dangerous to use someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing. You can check the Gas Safe Register at gassaferegister.co.uk for a list of traders and use a registered electrician from electricalcompetentperson.co.uk who can certify their own work.

It’s always helpful to get references or recommendations where possible. Ask your friends, family or neighbours if they know of anyone they’d recommend. You can also ask the person you hire for examples of work they’ve carried out in the past. Try to avoid contractors who won’t give referencesit’s a sign they could be dishonest.

When you find someone, ask for a written quote - this is different to an estimate. A quote is legally binding and the tradesperson can’t change it without a good reason - for example, if you ask for extra work to be done. It’s worth comparing quotes from several contractors to make sure you’re getting a fair price.

Next, get a written contract. This should cover exactly what you’re paying for and everything you’ve agreed on, including timings, payments, who will pay for materials and any subcontractors if needed. When it comes to payment, it’s best to opt to pay in stages rather than upfront. Try to pay by card if you can - this can give you extra safeguards if something goes wrong.

Finally, make sure your trader is fully insured. Keep copies of receipts and your written contract. These will be important as evidence if things go wrong. It’s also helpful to take photos of any problems if they arise.

If you have a problem with a contractor and you’re not sure what to do, call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

Citizens Advice Mid Suffolk can provide advice on other issues, 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

Local Churches

Stradbroke Baptist Church

Laxfield Road, Stradbroke, Suffolk, 01379 388 744

You are most welcome to join us this October at the Chapel:

Worship Services: Sundays: 10:15 Worship Service

Thursdays: 13:30 Share & Prayer Time (Meeting at #2 Woodfields, New Street)

Friendship Lunch: Wednesday 12th October commencing at 12:30pm Reservations please to Bruce before the Tuesday 11th.

Monday Mardle: (A warm space)

Every Monday between 9am – 4pm in the Chapel Hall Drop in for a cuppa, come along with your little ones for some socialization, (Parent and Toddlers play area) have a light lunch with your friends, (Lunch donation £2:50 including vegetarian options) take part and have some fun with Rummikub, scrabble, chess or other board games. We also have puzzles and some general reading materials. You are welcome to pop in at any time throughout the day and stay as long as you like… The heating is on us!…Something for everyone to enjoy!

Something to Ponder Say a prayer for the nation’s new leaders…

1Timothy 2:1-6

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people.

A Prayer for King Charles III

Everlasting God, we pray for the new King. Bless his reign and the life of our nation. Help us to work together so that truth and justice, harmony and fairness flourish among us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A Prayer for Liz Truss, Prime Minster

Lord of all mercy, we pray for the leadership of our nation, that our Prime Minister, Liz Truss may be guided by your counsel, lead with integrity and govern with grace. We pray her wisdom would come from you and that she would seek justice, love mercy and walk humbly before you. May your will be done in the United Kingdom as it is in heaven. Amen

Please let me know if I/we can pray for you or your loved ones. For further information on any of the above please contact me. Grace, mercy and peace to all, Bruce 01379 388 744 or 07484 219 265 or psalm34.8@yahoo.com

Stradbroke Good Neighbours

Stradbroke Good Neighbours are continuing to take people to hospitals and Drs etc. We can have help from porters at the hospital if needed. Good Neighbours. 07749445531

Jane Gemmill and the GN Committee

Borderhoppa

Borderhoppa, a registered not for profit charity, provides a range of community services in south Norfolk and north Suffolk.

Our service allows people of all ages without access to other forms of transport to carry out everyday tasks such as shopping, attend GP appointments, visit friends and relatives or to attend a local club/community group. The door-to-door dial-a-ride service has been providing a successful and reliable service since 2002. We also run regular outings for members throughout the year including trips to the coast, gardens, shopping trips, boat trips and pub lunches.

If you are a member of a local not for profit community group, you can hire the minibuses for outings. Go to destinations of your choice, visit your favourite places and enjoy shopping trips.

For a copy of the 2022 outings leaflet and for any other information regarding the services we provide please call the office: 01379 854800

email: adminborderhoppa@btconnect.com or visit our website: borderhoppa.org

Local Churches

All Saints, Stradbroke

Revd Canon Susan Loxton 01379 388493, Church warden, Peter Chetwynd 01379 384069

If you have any questions about Baptisms, Weddings or Funerals, or any questions about the Faith, please contact Revd Canon Susan Services:

2nd Oct 10.30 am Informal village service, coffee and biscuits before and afterwards.

16th Oct 10.30 am Holy Communion, coffee/tea afterwards For other services across the Benefice, see church noticeboard.

6th Nov 10.30 am Informal village service, coffee and biscuits before and afterwards

Also find us on our website: sancroftbeneficechurches.org for all the activities across the benefice.

Village service

The 1st Sunday of the month is changing slightly; there will be an informal village service. A time to meet and catch-up with each other over coffee, simple worship and time to talk again afterwards. Everyone is welcome, whether a regular worshipper or wanting to connect with others in the village.

Holy Communion this month will be at 10.30 am on the 3rd Sunday.

All Saints Church Fundraising Committee

The jumble sale on 24/9/22 raised £188.67. Many thanks to all who helped and supported us. We are now arranging a Xmas Craft Fair in the Community Centre on October 29th. Do come and support this with lots of different stalls. We are now collecting items for the Xmas hamper to be drawn out at the Xmas Bingo on Dec 9th. Any items most acceptable. Our next church cash bingo is on October 14th. Do come and support us, the more that attend the bigger the prizes. Many thanks to those who did the cycle Ride and Stride for the church, and also to those who manned the church on 9th Sept. The next cake stall is on October 1st. M Ellis

From the Rectory

Dear Friends and neighbours, What a strange and in some ways unsettling few weeks we have had. The Queen’s death has affected so many people, even if they don’t consider themselves royalists. I wonder if the last few years with all the uncertainty and strangeness of the pandemic and lock down has taken its toll on us in more ways than we know. Also, grief attaches itself to other grief, and some things we grieve about seem to be small and inconsequential but like any hurt or loss, they affect us. Growing older and not being able to do what we once did, illness, losing a job, something that has sentimental value, and not forgetting our much loved pets.

Many of us try to take care of others, but sometimes we forget to take care of ourselves. Take some time this month to stand and stare, take time to reflect on your life; the things that have caused you joy and pain. Maybe talk it over with a friend, or your vicar or pastor, it is definitely worth talking to God about. As we remember Queen Elizabeth the second, let us remember that it was her faith in God and the model of Jesus that gave her strength, joy, hope, and a full life even with her life of service. We could do worse than follow her lead.

God bless, Susan

Parish Pump

Next full Parish Council meetings are scheduled for: 10th October 2022

Due to the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II, the September meeting was cancelled. Urgent matters were dealt with under the scheme of delegation.

Planning Applications responded to:

DC/22/04031 – Erection of two storey rear extension (following demolition of existing). 56 Westhall. The application was supported with a recommendation that Mid Suffolk grants permission.

DC/22/04268 – application for Lawful Development Certificate for an existing use (Town & Country Planning Act 1990). Conversion and continued use of redundant farm building into 3 dwellings known as Cuckoo’s Barn, Heron’s Mill and Buttercup Dairy. Bullocks Hill Farm South, Pixey Green, IP21 5NG. Recommendation that Mid Suffolk refuse the application and a request that a full planning application is submitted.

DC/20/04491 – Erection of garage/garden store. Neaves Cottage, Laxfield Road IP21 5HX. An objection was submitted, with a recommendation that Mid Suffolk refuses permission. DC/20/05126 – Outline planning application. All matters reserved, access to be considered. Residential development of up to 80 dwellings (inc. affordable dwellings) provision of a new school car park and bus drop area, land for a new pre-school facility, public open space, upgrades to Mill Lane and associated works. Land South of Mill Lane, Stradbroke. Reaffirmed previous support of the application with recommendation that Mid Suffolk grant permission. Additional comments were submitted.

Other matters: Zurich were agreed as the Council’s insurers on a 5 year long term agreement. Payments due in month were made. Due to the funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II, the planned open evening was cancelled and has been rearranged – details below.

OPEN MEETING – HEALTH CENTRE REFURBISHMENT

An open evening will be held at the Court House on Thursday, 13th October from 7.00pm to 8.30pm.

The event is to allow residents to discuss with Parish Council representatives the proposed works at the Health Centre and the possibility of a Public Works Loan being taken to fund these. A dedicated page will be available on the Parish Council website from Monday, 3rd October with responses accepted up to the evening of 13th October.

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 IP23 8NA

From the Chair…

Like most people in the country Queen Elizabeth II has been on the throne for my entire life. It has been very strange indeed hearing people declaring ‘Long Live the King’ and hear the new words to the National Anthem since she sadly died earlier this month. Travelling around East Anglia during the morning period it was striking to see flags across the country at half-mast. Here in Stradbroke our Flag Deck Party once again did us all proud and we could even see the flag flying half mast at night! Thank you to everyone involved in marking this historic event in the village.

Like many organisations the Parish Council cancelled its September meeting due to the period of national mourning, and we were able to deal with the business of the council by using the agreed scheme of delegation with the clerk acting on behalf of the Council, following advice from councillors.

We also rescheduled our open meeting on Health Centre refurbishment. This will now take place at the Court House on Thursday 13th October from 7pm to 8.30pm. We will also make the information available on the Council’s website from Monday 3rd October at https://www.stradbrokepc.org/ You can also respond to the consultation there until 13th October. The next Council meeting is on Monday, 10th October 7.30pm at the Court House.

James Hargrave, Chair of Stradbroke Parish Council

SPC Climate Change Group

Energy Saving Leaflets

Winter is coming. There are still some Groundworks home energy-saving leaflets. Contact me at antoinettewisbey@gmail.com and I will send leaflets by email. Or, leave your details (name, telephone) in Stradbroke Library and I will get a copies for you.

Swifts

I have heard many people’s observations of swifts in the village this summer, which may indicate more swift families in Stradbroke! They are now in Africa, but will be back next spring. Thank you to all who have helped put more boxes in the village.

Community Energy Stradbroke Parish Council and Stradbroke Community Land Trust, together with UK Community Works and Suffolk County Council, are applying for grants to enable a geophysical survey on Stradbroke solar power potential.

Protect Wildlife In Winter With Less Work

To help all insects, worms and other wildlife, gardening sites advise to leave leaves on flower beds. Please don’t dig (unless making a planting hole), as this releases carbon and destroys the structure of essential AM fungi (arbuscular mycorrhiza), essential for health, root growth and nutritient transmission to plants. We need worms to enrich the soil especially after the drought conditions of summer. Keep flower stalks uncut as homes for insects and seeds for birds. Keep all good and “bad” insects as they eat each other and then the birds eat them!

Lastly, please don’t cut back ivy till spring, as it provides essential flowers for bees and berries for birds all over the winter.

Toni Wisbey

Here’s

How long can I have my advert in the Monthly? Advertisements are taken for a full year 01 Sept to 31 August. 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! Please send your advert to editors@stradbrokemonthly.co.uk

Stradbroke

Organisations

Stradbroke Court House and Library News

We now have a very good selection of Charity Christmas Cards on display in the library, as well as our usual Greetings Cards. Do come in and have a look, there are some lovely designs. We also will be having our usual Christmas Hamper Raffle, so come and sign your name in a square, £1 per go. You might be our lucky winner and you will be supporting us at the Court House to help support our community.

There will be a ‘Let’s Talk About Dementia’ event with Angela Hodge from Care UK, in the Café room at the Court House on Friday 28th October from 10 until 11.30 am. She will shine a light on some aspects of dementia, that you are often not told about, as well as why a loved one might be behaving differently and what you can do to support them.

The next Friday Friends Café is on Friday 7th October from 10-12pm Our Craft & Natter Group meets every Tuesday at 2pm

The Monthly Book Group meets on the last Thursday in the month at 2.30pm Call in for more information at the Library. If anyone is interested in joining our volunteers who run the Court House Café please pop in and see us. We need cake makers/café staff to help keep our popular Community café going, we open Thursday and Saturday mornings. Maureen John Library/Post Office Manager

Radio Stradbroke

Radio Stradbroke has returned to a more normal broadcasting pattern, after suspending live shows as a mark of respect following the death of Her Majesty the Queen. The 'Home Service' shows no signs of slowing down, and we are in demand for outside broadcasts, providing the PA/music for the fireworks display at Archbishop Sancroft High School in Harleston on Friday 4th November. Talking of OBs, 'Stradbroke Music Day' returns in 2023 on Saturday 8th July, following this year's event turning enough profit to ensure we can hold the event again. More news as decisions are made. Thank you to everyone who supported the 2022 Music Day to make it possible, and for listening to your Community Radio Station. Michael Hugman

WI

A very sad and sombre evening awaited us as our Dear Queen Elizabeth II had sadly passed away this afternoon. A one minute silence was observed in recognition of our late Monarch and her membership of the WI. Roz was in the chair in Gwyneth’s absence, and after the usual formalities, Toni highlighted various items in the SEFWI News, including a Crewel Embroidery workshop by Gwyneth, and a Lino cutting workshop by Patricia, both to be held in the Community Hall on 5th November. A 60th Anniversary card for Joy and her husband was circulated for signature. Roz then introduced Barbara McElroy who gave us a very interesting and informative talk on ‘Apples’ - a miscellany. This included the history and folklore of apples as well as the various types available. Roz gave the expression of thanks. Refreshments followed, served by Jane and Carol and the raffle was drawn. After what will be a very sad week ahead, we can all reflect on our own lives and loved ones, and give thanks for what we all have. The next meeting is on Thursday 13th October at 7.30pm when the talk will be ‘the Haunted History of British Pubs’ by Edmund Nicholls. All prospective new members are most welcome to attend this meeting.

Lorraine Dunn

Lottery Bonus Winners

38 D Pennycate £50, 19 M Davy £25, 9 J Chetwynd £25, 15 A Naulls £25, 51 No winner £50 next week. £144 donated to village organisations. M Ellis

Reliable

Experienced in working with people living with Dementia, understanding of Parkinsons, depression, loneliness isolation in old age. I strive to ensure you are treated with respect and dignity at all times, especially whilst you are receiving your care and treatment. I have the experience and knowledge to devise the right care and support plan best to suit you and your needs.

Stradbroke Village Archive

The Scene - Monday 13th October 1862, Stradbroke. The Coroner’s Court is holding an inquest on the death of Mr Lionel Staff following an incident the previous week in which, “. . . . the deceased was in charge of a waggon of furniture, and just after passing Hoxne Workhouse he stopped the waggon, and asked a man named George Spooner the way to Wilby. While they were talking the waggon was standing still, when a pony and gig came up from the near side. Spooner said he did not hear it till it was nearly upon them, nor did he hear anybody call out, and when he turned his head the pony and gig were not more than two yards off.”

“Mrs. Rice was driving, and at the time when Spooner looked round, she was in the act of pulling up as well as she could. As soon as deceased saw the pony and gig, he laid hold of the bridle of the near shaft horse of the waggon, and attempted to draw it towards him, and at that moment the shaft of the pony gig knocked him down. Spooner had sprung into the hedge to save himself, and the gig passed between him and (the) deceased. Mrs. Rice screamed out, which startled the pony, and the wheel of the pony gig went over the shoulder of the deceased, and the pony gig passed on. Directly the pony gig passed, the waggon and horses started forward, and the front waggon wheel passed over the leg of the deceased, and another wheel over his thigh. All this happened so rapidly that it was impossible for Spooner to give any assistance. Deceased was removed to the Union House. There was not sufficient room for the pony gig to pass on the offside, but there was room on the near side, and if the deceased had not drawn his horses to the near side, the gig would have passed through clear. From the evidence of Mrs. Rice it appeared that she saw a clear path on the near side of the waggon, and not room enough on the off side, and as the waggon was standing still she attempted to pass by the near side, and no accident could have happened if the horses had not been moved as she was in the act of passing. The man died on the Friday after the accident of congestion of the lungs, caused by the injuries he had received. Other evidence was given, proving that Mrs. Rice was driving at a moderate pace, and a verdict of "Accidental Death" was returned, no blame being attributed to Mrs. Rice, who pulled up as soon as she could get the pony to stop, it being frightened.”

This report was from The Ipswich Journal dated 18th October 1862. The Coroner’s Court was most likely The Queens Head Inn, and George Spooner was most likely the school Master teaching the children of The Hoxne Union Workhouse. Source: www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk, www.ancestry.co.uk, Ann Readman, SARA

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 is 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

Royal British Legion

We currently meet at the Royal Oak in Laxfield on the second Thursday of the month at 11.30 am. We meet in Laxfield because many years ago our meeting place in Stradbroke priced us “out of the market” and our Laxfield Publican Member offered us a “free house”. We have stayed in Laxfield, but have moved Pubs, but still on the “free house” basis. There is a popular mis-conception that you have had to have been in the Military Services in order to be a Member. Not so. Anyone over 18 can be a Member (we do not like Criminal Record however) and the cost is currently £18 per annum. The aims are – To raise money for our Beneficiaries , to be Companions to one and other, and to Remember those who have given their lives for their Country. Stradbroke Branch has been in existence since May 1921, having been formed right at the start of the Legion, and to me it would be a great shame if the Branch were now to close. One criticism made to us “that you meet in the daytime, I work so cannot attend”. Although we have a Royal Charter which largely tells us “why and what”, where a Branch Meets, how often and at what time is down to the Members. Our current Membership (29) is ninety percent retired, hence the preference for a daytime meeting.

If you, like me, would like to see the Branch continue, give me a ‘bell and I will be delighted to hear from you. You can get me on 01986 798414, or alternatively by e-mail at mills.laxfield@googlemail.com. By the way , the Legion is very modern, it lives by the Computer!

Bernard C Mills, Chairman, Stradbroke & Dist RBL

Forthcoming Events

Stradbroke Cinema

On October 20th we will be showing Operation Mincemeat. An excellent cast including Colin Firth, Matthew MacFadyen, Kelly MacDonald and Johnny Flynn playing out the true story of an Allied Intelligence Operation that was one of the greatest deceptions in warfare. A high-stakes plan with its execution riddled with fumbles, twists and reversals that ultimately succeeded in allowing troops to land in Italy during WW2 with minimal resistance. A thrilling heist with plenty of action Our forthcoming films are – November The Outfit and December Top Gun: Maverick Doors open at 7pm and the film starts at 7.30pm. There will be an interval half way through the film, ice-creams will be on sale and the Bar will be open. Tickets will be on sale from October 1st via the online booking system£5.50 for adults, £3 for 16s and under. Please use our online booking system, if you can, as it helps us when setting up for the Cinema. If you are unable to do so, tickets will be available using card/cash payments on the door and also at the Bar. Full details of all our forthcoming films can be found on the Village website at www.stradbrokeonline.org.uk Gillian Rennie-Dunkerley and Jane Merritt

The Stradbroke Strollers

We are a community-led informal Walking Group who meet every Thursday. 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. We enjoy a cup of tea, coffee and cake in the Stradbroke Court House Café afterwards. Most Mondays, meeting at the Baptist Chapel at 10am, we challenge ourselves to a longer walk of around 6 miles, enjoying light refreshments in the Chapel afterwards. Please contact Dennis or Sam for details. Unless it is really raining or blowing a gale, we will be walking! Everyone is welcome, whatever your age or abilityall you need are sensible shoes and clothing – and we look forward to seeing you on either day. Please be aware that you will be walking at your own risk but we know they will be really enjoyable walks, whatever the distance! For more information contact Dennis Merritt

Tel: 01379 388 382. Email: dennis_merritt@hotmail.com Sam Hackett

Tel: 01379 388 872. Email: sam.hackett@btinternet.com

Circle Dancing

D Merritt

Circle Dancing group - this is suitable for most age groups and no partners are required. We meet from 2pm4pm on alternate Tuesdays. Come and watch or join in at Stradbroke Community Centre. For more information please contact Thelma 870720 or Vivienne 384118

Rummikub Club, Scrabble or Chess anyone?

The Rummikub Club (Mondays 2-4pm in the Chapel Hall) All are welcome to come along between 2-4pm each Monday afternoon. Patient teachers are available to help anyone who wishes to give the game a try. Currently up to 12 meet each Monday to play. Come along and have some fun, a cuppa and a chat. For further information please contact Bruce Francis on 01379 388 744 Anyone for Chess or Scrabble? (Mondays 2-4pm in the Chapel Hall) All are welcome to come along between 2-4pm each Monday afternoon. Come and give your brain a workout and spend some time with neighbours and friends over a cuppa. For more info contact Bruce Francis 01379 388 744

Common Ground Theatre presents The Raven

Common Ground Theatre Company present our Autumn Tour... The Raven An excursion into the weird and wonderful mind of Edgar Allan Poe, adapted by Pat Whymark. If any writer of the last two hundred years can lay claim to “making the darkness conscious” it is surely Edgar Allen Poe.

An excursion into the weird and wonderful mind of Edgar Allan Poe through his short stories; the gothic intensity of “Ligeia”, the palpable malevolence of “The Cask of Amontillado”, the sumptuous imagery of “Mask of the Red Death”, and Poe’s most famous poem of loss and madness, “The Raven”. Glimpses of the man and his life are revealed in his own words, and in those of his critics, contemporaries and friends.

Presented in cabaret style, with filmed elements and original live music played by our company of actor-musicians, Common Ground celebrates the work of this remarkable and innovative artist. Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over.

The show will be performed at Laxfield Village Hall on Saturday 1st October and at Syleham & Wingfield Village Hall on Wednesday 12th October, both performances commence at 7.30pm.

Julian Harries, Common Ground Theatre Company

PAVING

Forthcoming Events

Heveningham Hall Fireworks

Heveningham Fireworks on 5th November, gates open at 4.30 pm. Featuring Scouting for Girls, The Kopycat Killers and The Cinelli Brothers. Tickets available online only at heveninghamfireworks.com

Email: fireworks@heveninghamhall.co.uk Heveningham Hall Country Fair Trust 1095403 Postcode: IP129 9AT

Mike Stephens, Publicity

Produce Market and Crafts

This venture by the Allotments Group will continue on Saturday 15th Oct, 10 – 12 noon Coffee/Tea and cakes also available. As well as food produce stalls there are different craft stands by local people. This will be the last Produce Market until next year. Allotments Group

Anglia Leisure Courses

Autumn 2022 Programme at Stradbroke Community Centre

Friday 28th October - Supernatural Suffolk by Stephen Poulter

Friday 18th November - Barnardo's Foster Children in Suffolk from 1890 to 1960 by Peter Davidson

Wednesday 7th December - Our Jolly Wassail. A Christmas entertainment by Chanter's Jigge Course: 9th October for 5 weeks - An Historic tour of Suffolk Course by local historian Stephen Poulter For further details and booking information see: www.anglialeisurecourses.co.uk

Alan Jeffery, Programme Coordinator, Anglia Leisure Courses

Syleham and Wingfield Village Hall

Wednesday 12th October 'The Raven' Common Ground Theatre 7.30

Saturday 29th October Jumble Sale 2 'til 4

Carpet Bowls has started at Syleham and Wingfield village hall - please contact Joyce on 01379 668 102 for details or call in at the village hall on a Monday evening.

Volunteers from Syleham and Wingfield Sports and Social club man the bar on a Tuesday and a Friday evening, and are available for your event booked at the village hall.

Come and join us on a Tuesday evening when the bar is open, board games are available, some will be playing cards, join those that use the main hall for some informal gentle jive, play pool or just have a chat.

There's a pattern of activities on the Friday evening when the bar will be open, board games and pool are available 1st Friday is usually Open Mic, come along to take part, to listen, to be the audience.

2nd Friday there's Purple Star Karaoke (free entry), raffle, come along to sing, to listen, to encourage.

3rd Friday is Quiz night, raffle, always MARS BARS for the lowest scoring team!

Last Friday there's Bingo! which raises funds for locally nominated charities and good causes. Apologies - the raffle prizes have not got any better despite the bad publicity!

There will be a Jumble Sale on Saturday 29th October, from 2pm 'til 4pm, teas, raffle, free entry, Contact Donna for details or if you need any donated items collected. We will continue to meet at 1.30 pm on the last Thursday of the month for half an hour of gentle chair based exercise, followed by coffee, chat and craft. Please join us when you wish, whether you prefer to come to just the exercise or just for a cuppa - or both. The village hall is warm and welcoming. No special clothing is needed for the exercise, just something comfy, our local instructor is experienced with all ages and abilities. Our village hall is available for bookings - do you need somewhere for your child's birthday party, or a family celebration, or a disco, party, meal or meeting. Contact Donna to come and look around, or to book. donnamariegoose@hotmail.co.uk or 07876487294

Live Theatre

Common Ground Theatre are making their return to our village hall with an adaption, by Pat Whymark, of The Raven described as 'an excursion into the weird and wonderful mind of Edgar Allan Poe. Common Ground are a Suffolk based music-theatre touring company. If you haven't attended a Common Ground show before, you really are missing out! - do come and join us on Wednesday 12th October at 7.30. Please use 07807 341364 or the Common Ground website for bookings https://www.commongroundtc.co.uk/autumn-tour

Thank you, Julie

Sports Roundup

Stradbroke Cricket Club

Nature's way of redressing the seasons is taking longer in 2022, but it is good to see some greenness returning to the playing field. The upside of a long dry Summer is that the Cricket Club played 21 games this year, not one of them was affected by rain. The downside of uninterrupted matches is that we have often been second best. Our league season ended with two more defeats; a very close one against Woodbridge, followed by a ritual hammering from Champions, Boxted, when despite conceding 263 runs, heads did not drop once, which says a lot for the spirit within the Club. A relatively easy win in our annual friendly against Laxfield followed. The season concluded with two T20's against the Presidents XI. In the first the Club scored 121 for 2(Gilbee 49, Hugman 33). Brian Wilikinson made 36 in reply, then Ben Flatt (29*) which included a dubious third run to secure a tie. In the second, Danny Lummis made 37 in the Presidents 93 for 7. Wise (32) set up the reply. Perrin took the game to the last ball, only to be bowled, the match ending in a genuine tie. This was a prologue to Presentation Evening. The trophy winners were: 'Player of the Year' - Steve Perrin, who also won 'Leading Run Scorer' with 413. James Gilbee with 14 was 'Leading Wicket Taker', while Will Banks won 'Champagne Moment' for his 'Ball of the Century'. 'Clubman of theYear' went to Matt Wise for his unstinting work getting a team together every week.

Michael Hugman

White Hart Bowls News

Our final results for this season.

Percy Dunnett Saxmundham away won

Percy Dunnett Dennington home lost.

Sun Bowl Hollesley away won

Sun Bowl final against Dennington played at Melton lost.

Ellis cup was won by Stradbroke White Hart, played at Stradbroke District, it was played in good spirits and a lovely spread put on afterwards by Mary, thank you.

For those who got through to the Waveney semi finals well done, Mike Grigg went through to the final but lost after a very close game. And we wish Margaret a speedy recovery after her fall at the semi-finals.

Our finals day was held on Sept. 18th, we had a very good turnout and we all enjoyed a lovely day, the results from this will be in the magazine after our presentation night.

Look out for our next bingo on Friday 21st Oct. and Friday 25th Nov. Our AGM is on 25th Oct. Webb room Stradbroke Community Centre at 7.30pm.

Also Roger, Carla and Alison Ward would like to say a huge thank you to the players and spectators for their support on 23rd of August when a match was played between Stradbroke White Hart and Fressingfield bowls club, to raise funds in the memory of Julie.

The White Hart had a convincing victory, but more importantly the green was filled with the sound of friendly banter and chat by both the players and spectators whilst enjoying the occasion. Delicious refreshments were laid on in the White Hart after the game, where the raffle also took place, and the proceeds of the evening amounting to £354 are to benefit the Woolverstone Macmillan Centre at Ipswich hospital where Julie made many friends with both staff and patients during her visits for treatment.

Both clubs are now hoping this will become an annual fixture, taking turns to host the event. Also a big thank you to all who donated draw prizes.

Lastly the White Hart Bowls Club would like to wish Maria Smith all the best for her London Marathon.

Lynn Ruth

Dazzle and Bark Dog Grooming

BasedinBrundish,Suffolk Fully

The Old Lion Tea Garden and Rustic Barn Gift Shop

I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported my little courtyard tea garden over the summer months. To the three ladies that come on a Thursday Pat, Angie and Vicky for being my guinea pigs on all my scones. Ally and the hairy dog who kept bringing her friends every time they came to stay and for Tracy who has brought so many people, that I just cannot keep count. Emma for her lending of utensils and great support throughout .Thanks also to Michelle who just stepped in every time there was a rush on and helped me in the tea garden and everyone else who was there for me. The weather is changing, so I will be bringing it to a close. I have great ideas for next year, especially for when it rains, so I hope to see you all again. My little Rustic Barn Gift Shop will be open on Thursday and Saturday mornings from 10 until 2 and Friday afternoons 2 until 4pm. Lots of exciting new items including my barrow of sweets. I will still be doing take away teas and coffees when the shop is open. Every second Saturday of the month, the shop will be closed as I will be selling my bakes and cakes and crafts at Stradbroke produce market inside the church. I will also be holding two Christmas evenings with mulled wine and minced pies for one of my charities close to me, so watch this space. I cannot thank you all enough for your ideas, laughter and support. Take care and keep an eye out for the board just in case it’s a lovely crisp day, where you can sit in the rustic cart lodge or garden wrapped in a blanket and sip hot tea and coffee. Hopefully see you in the Rustic Gift Shop sometime.

Much love, Mary Thompson

Empty Homes in Mid Suffolk

We need your help! Our Empty Homes Team wants to spread the messages about the help and support they offer to help turn empty houses into homes. Our website has been updated to provide a range of information on the support we can offer to empty home owners. See https://www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/housing/private-landlords-andtenants/empty-homes/ We have an easy way for anyone to now report empty homes directly to us. The form takes only a few minutes and can help us to identify where there are empty homes in our communities. We have an Empty Homes Renovation Loan that is designed to help owners of long-term empty properties return them to use and available to rent. It also helps reduce the level of empty properties in the local community and can provide affordable homes for rent. Any questions? Then please email us at housingstandards@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk

BSEVC Later Life Community Connect

BSEVC Later Life Community Connect - the trusted community group* Telephone Support Service - 01284 334516

Got a question, problem, need advice? Just want to chat?

BSEVC Later Life Community is designed to support, inform and advise people 65 or over. One local telephone number with a real person and friendly voice who is ready to help you or just chat. We can put you in touch with other organisations who can help and we have a regular follow-up process to check how you are and support.

Call us any day 7 days a week 10am 2pm.

*(BSEVC also runs Mid Suffolk community buses: www.bsevc.co.uk)

Letters to the Editors

Toni Wisbey

Thank you to everyone who came and bought cakes at my cake stall on the 17th September, I raised a whopping £340 for The Firefighters Charity/Run for Rusty (My Mum’s London Marathon run in memory of my Dad). Also thank you to everyone who baked cakes too! Ellie Smith

Helpers Needed - Free Festive Fun

If anyone would like to be involved in helping with the Festive Fun Event ,we will be holding a meeting at the Court House on Monday 17th October at 7.30pm to discuss this.

At the Festive Fun Event we are planning to have lots of fun games and festive crafts and we will have plenty of nice food. If you feel you can help in any way on the day then please come to the meeting. Alternatively you can let us know; Sue Childs 07518 288378 or Caroline Stebbing 07879 478157

Hammond Garden & Countryside Services

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.

Septic

Dr Dan Poulter

Conservative MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich

Summer is without a doubt my favourite season, not least of all because it means that I can spend more time at my home in Suffolk and enjoying all that we love about this great county. From the swathes of farmland, open skies and vibrant market towns to the local produce markets, village fetes and independent retailers, I particularly relish the opportunity to get out and about meeting so many of you and supporting our local businesses, community events and local food producers. So much work goes into the many school and community fetes that take place through the summer months, with community volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring everything to fruition. Thank you for all that you do to make our villages and communities so special. But as we now look towards the start of the new school term, for those starting school for the very first time, these are exciting and nerve-wracking times; not only for children but also for their proud parents and grandparents, many of whom I’m sure will be eagerly taking first day photographs of the smart new school uniforms and waving children off at the school gates, determined to put on a brave face.

For those moving up to secondary school, although daunting, this marks an exciting new chapter with greater independence and a whole raft of new activities and subjects to study, alongside existing friends and perhaps some new faces too. Regardless of age, it’s helpful to remember that everyone suffers from the same first day nerves – pupils, parents and teachers alike, but this is only natural and it’s ok to ask for help or guidance if needed. Remember – we’ve all been there. I am delighted to see that once again, so many achieved excellent grades as Suffolk’s outgoing GCSE, A level and vocational students celebrated their recent results. These fantastic results are testament to the sheer hard work and dedication shown not only by pupils but backed up by the help and encouragement of teachers and parents. I would like to offer my congratulations to all those involved and wish you all the very best with the next steps in your education or workplace journeys. For MPs, the end of the school summer holiday period also marks the return to Parliament following summer recess. So whilst I have very much enjoyed spending more time at home here in Suffolk over the summer, I’m also pleased to be back to business representing the people of Central Suffolk and North Ipswich in Westminster. That said, the people who live and work in Central Suffolk and North Ipswich always remain my principal focus, so do please get in touch with me if you need my help or contact my office if you would like to book an appointment at one of my regular advice bureaus.

For more information, please visit my website 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.

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October

1st Radio Stradbroke on air from 10 am at www.radiostradbroke.co.uk, and every day

1st Court House Café open – and every Saturday (see page 10)

1st Common Ground Theatre presents the Raven at Laxfield (see page 14)

1st Cake Stall iao ASCFC (see page 4)

3rd ‘Monday Mardle’ at Stradbroke Baptist Church – and every Monday (see page 3)

3rd Rummikub Club and Scrabble at Baptist Church, and every Monday (see page 14)

4th Contact Club meet in Community centre, and every Tuesday (see page 12)

4th Craft & Natter at the library from 2-4pm, and every Tuesday (see page 10)

5th Table tennis in Community Centre, 18:30-20:30 and most Wednesdays

6th Stradbroke Strollers meet outside Court House – and every Thursday (see page 14)

6th Court House Café open – and every Thursday (see page 10)

7th Friday Friends Café in Court House from 10am (see page 10)

10th Parish Council meeting (see page 6)

11th Circle Dancing at Community Centre 2-4pm (page 14)

12th Common Ground Theatre presents the Raven at Syleham (see page 17)

12th Stradbroke Baptist Church Friendship Lunch – all welcome (see page 3)

13th Open meeting for Health Centre Refurbishment at Court House (see page 6)

13th WI meet in Community Centre, new members welcome (see page 10)

14th Cash Bingo iao ASCFC (see page 4)

15th Produce market in All Saints Church (see page 17)

17th Festive Fun helpers meeting in Court House at 7.30pm, all welcome (see page 20)

20th Stradbroke Cinema showing ‘Operation Mincemeat’ (see page 14)

21st White Hart Bowls bingo (see page 18)

21st ***Submission deadline for the November edition strictly by this date***

25th Circle Dancing at Community Centre 2-4pm (page 14)

28th Talk on Dementia in Court House at 10am (see page 10)

29th Jumble Sale at Syleham & Wigfield village hall (see page 17)

29th Xmas Craft Fair at Community Centre iao ASCFC (see page 4)

November

1st Radio Stradbroke on air from 10 am at www.radiostradbroke.co.uk, and every day

4th Radio Stradbroke at Archbishop Sancroft for fireworks evening (see page 10)

5th Heveningham Hall fireworks display, gates open 4.30pm (see page 17)