Summer is upon us and on my walks around the lanes and fields, across the greens and through the parks it seems that this year is a good year for the dandelions! They appear to be thriving everywhere. It is so easy to think of them as a weed and a nuisance in our gardens, but (in the right place) they are beautiful. Glowing golden drops of sunshine!
Once, many years ago, when I was at a very dark point in my life, I looked into the cold muddy waters of the river Thames and thought that those waters seemed, in comparison to my life at the time, an appealing place to be. I imagined jumping into oblivion and putting an end to my own seemingly disastrous and pointless existence. Yet, at the very moment I was having these thoughts the image of a small yellow flower came into my mind. It was just an ordinary little yellow flower, like a dandelion, yet its brightness shone in the darkness of my despair. I realised at that moment that there was beauty in the world. If there is beauty, I concluded, then somewhere there was a source of goodness and love which created beauty.
Bishop Mike our ex Bishop of Dunwich said, “flowers… they interrupt me, they take me out of myself” and he went on to say, “part of the language of God is beauty and beauty can interrupt our unending song of ourselves”. In my case that was so very true. The picture of the flower in my mind had interrupted my thoughts and taken me out of my own self-absorbed loathing into a place of hope. The way that beauty can fill us with a sense of gratitude and warmth… is that simply the way we are made or is it something through which God is speaking to us?
We are walking along a beach and we are suddenly struck with a sense of awe and wonder at a scene we have seen many times before. Or a piece of music, a painting, a poem, moves us to tears at its beauty. The smile of a baby melts our cold hearts. Why has it stuck us in that way? Are we just made that way or is it God speaking to us? Why, on that day as I dangled my life over the Thames, did the image of a flower appear to me?
All those years ago as the image of the dandelion took my breath away, interrupted my thoughts and took me out of myself, I turned to see the world in a different light. I was not a Christian then and I wondered for a long time why that image came into my mind at that moment. These days I have no doubt that I heard the language of God that day. These days I have to agree with Bishop Mike, one of the ways in which God talks to us is through the language of beauty. So often we see merely weeds and fail to notice the signs and symbols of God’s love; we don’t allow ourselves to hear God’s language and so we fail to acknowledge God’s signals of glory and of beauty which speak to us of love and of joy.
FRAMSDEN
Events proposed for Framsden Village over the next few months:
Debenham and Helmingham Benefice Church Services
June 2025
Sunday 1st June
Sunday 8th June
Sunday 15th June
Sunday 22nd June
Sunday 29th June
8.00am Aspall Holy Communion
9.30am Debenham family@church
8.00am Kenton Holy Communion
9.30am Debenham Holy Communion
Winston Morning Prayer
11.00am Framsden Holy Communion
Helmingham Morning Prayer
8.00am Aspall Holy Communion
9.30am Debenham Holy Communion
Framsden Morning Prayer
11.00am Pettaugh Holy Communion
Kenton Morning Prayer
6.30pm Winson Evening Prayer
9.30am Debenham Holy Communion
11.00am Winston Holy Communion
Pettaugh Morning Prayer
10.00am Winston Benefice HC
VE Day Community Celebration in the Village Hall and Gardens on Saturday, May 10th from 6pm – 9pm. Please bring your own picnics/nibbles!! Free entry. Licensed bar. Jazz Band playing from 6.30 – 8.30pm.
Curry Night on Friday, 6th June in Framsden Village Hall at 7.00 for 7.30pm. Bookings essential. Please phone Christine Schofield to book your place on 07377 670181.
Garden Party at Thornfield, Birds Lane on 8th June. 2.30pm – 4.30pm. Entrance £5.00.
Framsden Fete – Saturday July 12th. Time TBC. Hold the date! Further details to be announced shortly.
Also, with great pleasure, I’m pleased to confirm on behalf of Framsden Church that at long last our church flagpole has been renovated, and a flag now flies very proudly from the Tower. It really is heart-warming and such a treat, to see it the flag hoisted once again – many thanks to Richard Schofield, Keith Levett and Richard Green for helping with the project. Another church related event was that we ran a Coffee morning in the Village Hall on Saturday April 5th and raised £254.50 for church funds.
Thanks to all who supported the event. Christine Schofield
PETTAUGH
Well, Spring has sent us a few surprises with temperatures hitting unusual highs. The churchyard bloomed along with the weather from the snowdrops, to daffodils, violets, cherry blossom and recently cowslips. The grass always proves an annual challenge in the churchyard but with extra volunteers this year, it is looking well. Volunteers are always welcome to help with maintenance of the church and churchyard. Any offers of help are always most welcome. Please contact the Church Warden, Sheila 01473 890883.
Easter services were held in all of the benefice churches, plus the Sunrise Service at Crow’s Hall, which attracted 30 people at 5.30am! (See www.facebook.com/ debenhamandhelmingham for photographs.) Sadly the sun failed to turn up. St Catherine’s was decorated with many spring blooms and looked beautiful, and the service was well attended.
A reminder that family@church services are held in St. Mary’s on the first Sunday of every month, which is a very informal, friendly service at which children can take part in craft activities. A light breakfast is provided at 9.30am with the service commencing at 10am. All welcome.
Another reminder that the Parish Pantry is open every Wednesday 10am - 11am in Debenham Church. Just £3.50 to collect a bag full of groceries and it is open to all in our benefice. Also the Parish Cafe is open every Wednesday 10am - 11.30am in Dove Cottage for a cuppa, cake and chat, in the warm (for a donation only). All welcome.
The Annual Ride & Stride for Suffolk Historic Churches will be held on Saturday 13th September. Anyone wishing to take part can contact our local organiser, Ruth Crane (01473 890526) for details and sponsorship forms.
We have some dates for your diary for events at St Catherine:-
12th July 2025 Saturday - Cream Teas from 2pm - Hopefully in the Church Meadow.
4th October 2025 Saturday - Cheese and Wine 7pm - 9pm.
WINSTON
We wish Bob and Anne Page every happiness in the new home in Bramford and we welcome their son Will and his family to his parent’s home they have swapped homes. I would personally like to thank Bob and Anne for all the years they have helped to cut the churchyard, which is much appreciated. I’m sure they will visit Winston to see Will and his family.
It was lovely to hear our church bells being rung by the Suffolk Guild of Bellringers in late April.
The Annual Winston Quiz on April 11th was great fun, as always. Many thanks to Lynn and Richard for organizing the quiz, Lynn for half-time yummy cakes, Kate for
Debenham
and Helmingham Benefice Church Services
July 2025
Sunday 6th July
Sunday 13th July
Sunday 20th July
Sunday 27th July
8.00am Aspall Holy Communion
9.30am Debenham family@church
8.00am Kenton Holy Communion
9.30am Debenham Holy Communion
Winston Morning Prayer
11.00am Helmingham Morning Prayer
Framsden Holy Communion
8.00am Aspall Holy Communion
9.30am Debenham Holy Communion
Framsden Morning Prayer
11.00am Pettaugh Holy Communion
Kenton Morning Prayer
6.30pm Winston Evening Prayer
9.30am Debenham Holy Communion
11.00am Winston Holy Communion
Pettaugh Morning Prayer
her lovely soup and to Sandra for the raffle. £318 was raised for the schoolroom funds. The Easter Sunday service was well attended. Thank you to Rev Keith for taking the service and to all the flower arrangers who decorated the church.
We are planning the Winston Fete on Saturday 14th June, 2pm in and around the schoolroom. We would be very grateful for offers of cakes etc for the refreshments and the cake stall. If you are having a clear out please think of us for “white elephant” items and books. If she hasn’t seen or spoken to you yet, Sandra has draw tickets to sell, still only £1 per book and will write them for you if you let her know (01728 860040). Please bring cash to the Fete as we have no card machines. Free parking and entry. Thank you.
We will be holding the Benefice Service on Sunday 29th June at 10am. We look forward to a concert in the church by the Black Barn Singers, date to be confirmed.
Looking further ahead we hope to be holding a Pet Service, and our Early Bird Christmas Market which should take place on Saturday 15th November, 11am-3pm in the church and schoolroom. I understand some crafters have already been in contact with Kate, cmcbranch@btinternet.com, and have booked their tables! Sandra
HELMINGHAM
The Benefice Service which coincided with Mothering Sunday was well supported, a congregation with all ages enjoying the service Rev’d Susan Taylor and Rev’d Keith Rengert sharing leadership of a modern language service including Holy Communion with the benefice choir also present, The children were encouraged to help prepare a cake, to demonstrate how we are all made up of a variety of ‘ingredients’ forming a whole person. Following the service posies of spring flowers were handed out by the children, to mothers present and refreshments were served, which included the cake prepared earlier, to those who stayed to catch up with fellow members of the congregation.
The Easter Sunday Family Service was well attended and led by Veda Berriman. An informal service emphasising the new beginnings that the Easter season bring. Congratulations and best wishes to Lizzie Blower and Joe Trower who were married at St Mary’s on April 26th, also Rachel Cornes and James Turnball who will be married
The Secret Gardens of Kenton
Sunday 8th June 2-6pm
* Teas and Cakes * Plant Stall *
Tickets £8 available on the day from Kenton Church (iunder 15s free) Contact Vic Woodgate 01728 861118
Strawberry Tea at Aspall Hall Gardens
(IP14 6PD)
Sunday 29th June 2.00-4.00pm
* Display of Morgan cars * Bric-a-brac *
* Plant Stall * Raffle * Cake Stall *
£8 inc scones & jam, strawberries & cream
Tickets available from Webster's Newsagents (plants and bric-a-brac to Jean Ward 01728 860121)
All funds raised in aid of Aspall Church
Please bring a picnic blanket and chairs!
20th, 21st, 22nd June
St Mary’s Church in Debenham will host its 48th Art Exhibition in June. Everyone is welcome to join this prestigious event and be immersed in the artistic talent showcasing original art, prints and greetings cards. There will be something there to suit all budgets. The exhibition will open on Friday evening with a party atmosphere. You will be able to mingle with the artists, wander around the artwork, enjoy beverages provided by local businesses, and be entertained by the sound of live music. The Church will be alive with the happy noises of artists and visitors enjoying the artwork. Saturday and Sunday also offers the chance to wander quietly around the exhibition where you can be transformed into a world of creativity within the sanctuary of the beautiful 12th century church.
It really is a celebration of creativity and talent and is a date in the diary that must not be missed. Debenham is a welcoming and picturesque village in the heart of Suffolk. Visitor and exhibitor information is available now on the website (below).
Fri 20th: 10.30am – 8pm Sat 21st: 10.30am – 6pm
Sun 22nd: 11am – 4pm (music and drinks Friday 6-8p,m FREE ADMISSION!
www.stmarysartex.org.uk
Winston Fete
Saturday 14th June 2-4pm
Old School Room Winston
* Good old-fashioned games * Tombola * Teas and Cakes *
* White Elephant * Prize Draw *Live Music *
* Plants * Books *
CASH ONLY (no card
machines)
Free entry, free parking
on June 7th.
If you think you might like to join the bellringing band, the friendly team would be pleased to welcome you. Go along to Helmingham Church, on their practice evening, held on the 3rd Friday of each month. Taster sessions and training will be given to newcomers, anybody with past experience will be made most welcome too. For more information message Tess on 07805 511993 and she will get back to you to answer any questions you may have.
Helmingham Primary School & Nursery
At the end of our Spring term the children were involved in an afternoon on the Easter Story working in small groups to produce gardens which were shared with parents at the end of the day – as well as some Easter Cakes!
Children have represented their class at competitions outside school. Albert took part in a Science competition at an award ceremony at Southwold where he was able to discuss his model with our CEO and representatives from The Ogden Trust. Levi travelled to represent the school at a Cross Country competition at The Royal Hospital School.
Our final Spring outing for the whole school was a trip to ROARR – the dinosaur park in Norfolk. A celebration for all the work the children have done on this topic this term. Both classes have been involved in making 3D models. We couldn’t have asked for a better day, the sun shone and the delight on the children’s faces as they turned the corner to see a life sized Triceratops who then turned and opened its mouth to call out!! Just amazing. Lots of facts for the children to find out, a map to follow and gain points for a medal at the end. The mini bus was very quiet on the way back with lots of sleeping children.
The Summer School Production with Henley School for KS2 is Oliver with a twist! As you move round classes you can hear the children humming the tunes, which are very catchy! Music assemblies and singing clubs are all focussing on this production.
Our Learning Pi (Personal Improvement) platform is up and running now and it is a
Debenham and Helmingham Benefice Church Services August 2025
delight to see what the children get up to at home and on their fabulous adventures that link with the development of our learning characteristics. Parents can just snap a picture, upload to the platform and link to the learning immediately.
At the end of May together with our partner school Henley we devote a whole week to Outdoor Learning – really engaging in all activities outside as we focus on links to our curriculum and enhance the learning of the children. The children will move between schools using all the areas available to them.
The first week of June we will be practising for Sports Day at the end of the week, with lots of house encouragement and opportunities for all to take part.
Rev. Susan will be popping in before she goes away to take assemblies in each class and we celebrate Pentecost and the Church’s birthday on Tuesday 10th June walking down to the church for singing and readings before sharing some Birthday Cake! Big thank you to Mrs Veda Berriman who is joining us at St. Marys, Framsden. Do please join us on this afternoon and support your local school children - we start at 2.30 pm finishing at 3.15 pm.
If you would like to come and visit us – see our Outdoor Classroom and Forest Schools
in operation then please give us a call, we would love to show you around. 01473 890267 or email us on office.helmingham@gfpschools.org.
Helmingham Primary School Car Park
A Fundraising clothing bin has been placed in the car park adjacent to the road side at Helmingham School. Please denote any unwanted clothes and shoes to help raise money for the school. Very many thanks.
DEBENHAM
Parish Pantry
Every Wednesday morning, 10am to 11am in the church. Collect a bag of groceries for £3.50.
Parish Café
Every Wednesday, 10am to 11.30am in Dove Cottage. Hot drinks, cake and chat, for a donation only.
Family@church
A family friendly service for the young and not so young. On the first Sunday of each month, 9.30am breakfast, 10am service.
The Corner Café
Open every Thursday from 4-6pm (ages 11-17)
Venue: Dove Cottage, Debenham
Serving a range of different drinks including coffees, iced coffees, bubble tea. Different flavours of muffins, doughnuts and other snacks available at affordable prices.
A cosy chill place to hang out with your mates or even to just relax alone. Wifi available.
Now with air hockey table!
The Forge Church Holiday Club
The holiday club runs from 23rd-25th July with a BBQ type event on the Sunday after church.
Waveney Foodbank
A collection box for Waveney Foodbank is in the church porch. Debenham Co-op also has a box for collections (Stowmarket Foodbank).
Meet up Mondays
10am-2pm in Dove Cottage. Lots of activities including jigsaw puzzle exchange, refreshments, games, crafts and books. Dogs welcome.
Debenham Library
Books, DVDs, WiFi, Computers, Printing/photocopying/scanning, A4 Laminating, CDs, audiobooks, downloadable music/audiobooks/eBooks, free reservations, drinks for sale. The room is available for hire outside opening hours.
Suffolk Libraries: Mobile Library Routes (every 4 weeks)
Aspall Church, Thursdays 1145-1210
Framsden Village Hall, Thursdays 1400-1415
Pettaugh, Old Bull, Fridays 1535-1555
See www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/visit/mobile-libraries for more information.
Debenham Shed
The next workshops will be as follows, 10am-2pm:-
• Friday 13 June: Decoupage with John Ellam
• Saturday 12 July Sewing (provisional)
• Fri 12 September to be arranged.
If you are interested in attending please email crafts@debenhamshed.org.uk or one of the telephone numbers below.
What is Debenham Shed? A place to make things by yourself, with guidance or with others. It could be in metal, cloth, wood or plastic. We have lots of tools and sourcing materials. You may want to repair or make new the limit is your imagination. It is also for social connecting and friendship building, sharing skills and knowledge, and of course a lot of laughter. Debenham shed is open to all.
Debenham Shed is at 2 Fields Farm, Low Road (IP14 6BJ). We are open on Monday mornings 9am-12pm, Fridays 10am-5pm and normally the second Saturday morning of each month. Membership by the year, half-year or PAYG. Chairman: Rob Davies 07952 556152 Treasurer: Tony Hutt 07906 614328. Visit our website at www.debenhamshed.org.uk (sign up to newsletters on the Contact page) Email info@debenhamshed.org.uk. Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ DebenhamShed. Registered Charity 1212367.
Debenham Green Team
On the first Saturday of each month, outside The Lion from 9am-11am, we collect Tetrapak cartons, plastic flower pots and contact lens packaging, as well as the items below. We have containers for pens, dental products and corks, at the back of the church. Also old candles for recycling. River sampling takes place monthly. Join the mailing list at debenhamgreenteam@gmail.com or look at the website
www.debenhamfuture.com. See the events coming up at www.facebook.com/ DebenhamGreenTeam..
Debenham History Society
See https://thedebenhamarchive.net for the current series of programmes, as well as an extensive archive of information, photographs, publications, etc and to join their mailing list. Publications archived now included Debenham Parish Magazine, a Debenham Village Guide of 2002 and this magazine.
Editor’s notes
The Copy deadline for the next Together magazine (September to November) is 25 July, and is normally published about two weeks later. Quarterly, A5 format. 700 copies are printed and collated on Rizograph stencil copier, distributed free by members of Winston church. Send copy to the editor by email, email attachment (Word or Publisher formats preferably); Adobe PDF format may be suitable. Photographs do not reproduce well but graphics are usually OK. If you can’t do any of these send the copy in the post.
Editor: Tony Hutt, Email: tony@tonyhutt.co.uk Tel (01728) 860173. 19 Priory Lane, Debenham, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 6QD.
Advertising payments to Kate Branch, The Red House, Winston, Stowmarket IP14 6LG Tel (01728) 861004 Email: cmcbranch@btinternet.com (payable to Winston PCC). 1/8 page for £20 p.a. (4 issues); ¼ page for £40 p.a.; ½ page for £80 p.a. Send advertising enquiries and advertising copy to Tony Hutt.
This magazine is published online at www.achurchnearyou.com/debenham and earlier copies are available at www.issuu.com/tonyhutt and http://thedebenhamarchive.uk
Debenham website and PC
Useful links
www.debenham.onesuffolk.net
Framsden PC www.framsden.onesuffolk.net
Framsden village www.framsden.org.uk
Winston website and PC www.winston.onesuffolk.net/parish-council
Pettaugh website and PC www.pettaugh.suffolk.cloud
Framsden Baptist Church www.framsdenbaptistchurch.org Forge Church (Debenham) www.forgechurch.com
Debenham United Reformed Church www.urcstowmarketandvillages.com
For Coffee, Cake, Lite Lunches & Hot Desks
At Bruford’s we are focussed on flavour, whether that be our locally sourced coffee, cakes or savouries and the experience you receive in our 400 year old coffee shop, in the heart of Debenham High Street.
Upstairs we have 7 hot desks, available to rent by the hour, day or longer, complete with high speed broadband.
Open 7 days a week – Mon – Saturday 8am – 4.30pm and Sundays 9am -1pm
www.brufords.uk
Telephone: 01728 582230
The Crowfield
Angela McMyn BSc Hons OT
Are you struggling with your mobility and independence? Do you want to enjoy your hobbies again and feel more connected to family and friends? I am a qualified Occupational Therapist with over twenty years of experience in the health service. Call me for a free initial consultation. Home visits, assessment and tailored rehab programmes designed to improve your quality of life. Optional report highlighting advice and suggestions.
Email: optimalot@icloud.com Phone: 0742 531 0407
Web: www.optimal-ot.co.uk
The Corner Cafe
Open every Thursday during term-time from 4-6pm (ages 11-17)
Venue: Dove Cottage, Debenham
Serving a range of different drinks including coffees and ice coffees
Different flavours of muffins and other snacks available at affordable prices. A cosy chill place to hang out with your mates or even to just relax alone. Wifi available.
A full range of curtains, blinds and cushions made to suit your individual requirements Traditionally made and hand sewn in Helmingham. For details, or to arrange a home visit, contact Miranda Millar on 01473 890253
Going away on holiday, worried about your animals, house security, and who will water the garden?
I am an experienced home sitter, and have looked after domestic pets and large animals. I was brought up on a dairy farm and kept sheep, horses, dogs and cats myself while working as a veterinary nurse for over 10 years. Going away needn’t be a stressful experience for you or your animals.
For details contact Jo Calver, Helmingham 01473 890770, email: jotheredhead68@gmail.com
CHAIR
traditional, antique and contemporary upholstery
recovers and rejuvenation of settees
banquette seating and window cushions
free fabric sample swatches and design work
email: hayley@chairlady.co.uk or WhatsApp 07730 582798 with a photo of your project
Based in Mickfield near Debenham Tel 07730 582798 www.chairlady.co.uk
Facebook: Chair Lady Instagram: chair.lady
HENRY ABBOTT
page
Together magazine carries advertisements as a service to advertisers who wish to promote their services or products to readers. This does not imply that the publishers of the Together magazine endorse or provide any guarantee as to the quality of the services or products advertised. It is the responsibility of the customer to make the necessary enquiries of any advertiser. For advertising rates see page 12.
Rector
WHO’S WHO IN THE BENEFICE
Revd. Susan Taylor 07990 959593 revsusantaylor@icloud.com
(Please note, my usual day off is a Friday and every third Saturday of the month.)
Ministry Team
Mrs Veda Berriman 01728 861363 veda.berriman@btinternet.com
Mr Mark Trevitt 01473 890568 mail@wheelertrevitt.co.uk
Rev Keith Rengert 07990 959593 revdkeith@gmail.com
Note: we now have a Ministry Team phone number: 07990 959593.
