The Village Edition, April 2023

Competition winners get behind the wheel of Ed Sheerbin

Babergh and Mid Suffolk’s bin lorry naming competition winners have enjoyed the chance to get behind the wheel of Ed Sheerbin and Binnie the Pooh. Hosted at Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils’ Sudbury depot, winners were able to ‘drive’ a bin lorry, see it in action, and ask crews their burning bin and recycling questions. They also received a certificate with a picture of their named bin lorry, and a high vis vest to take home. Jason Alexander, who named the Bincredible Hulk and Mary Popbins lorries, said: “It’s been absolutely brilliant, one of the best things was seeing the children’s faces as they got to sit in the cabs of the new bin lorries. “I got to live a childhood dream as well by sitting in the cab of a bin lorry and it was fascinating to see how they all work.”

The 22 winning names were chosen by the councils’ waste team and crews at the end of last year, and the lorries began hitting the roads over the winter. They saw off over 400 individual name suggestions sent into the councils - with locals of all ages, from villages to towns, all getting in on the fun. Cllr Elisabeth Malvisi, cabinet member for environment at Babergh District Council, said: “Collecting your bin is one of our most visible jobs, so it was great to be able to give our competition winners an insight into bin crew life. It was great to see hundreds of you engage in the competition, and I hope the lorries, which run on special used vegetable oil, catch your eye as they pass by with important waste messages and catchy names.”

Tim Allen & Son Ti

Elmsett Community Indoor Market

Saturday April 8th 2023

The next Community Indoor Market will be on Saturday 8th April in Elmsett Village Hall, from 10am2pm. This market has been created to support the village and local artisan traders and all monies raised from pitch fees, after expenses, will be donated to St Elizabeth Hospice, Ipswich.

Please come and support your local community and artisan traders. Booked in to date are the following stalls: Love Refills, St Elizabeth Hospice stall, Jan’s Jams and Chutneys, Sharon’s Box Cards and glass ornaments, Mrs P’s upcycled lights and more, Sue’s bags, hats and fairies. Shirley’s Crafty Cushions and doorstops, Mick’s wooden items, Tropics with Sabrina, Jenny’s Jewellery, Pat’s Resin craft and polymer clay items, Claire’s cakes and goodies, Lisa’s upcycled fire extinguishers! Kerry’s Teku Crystal Creations and Laura’s apple cider vinegar, bracelets, keyrings and crochet items.

This month the refreshments will be provided by Elmsett School PTA in order to raise much needed funds to support the children’s wider educational experiences. We would love to see you, treat it as a warm space, a place to meet up with friends for a cuppa, plus maybe find some unusual and unique items to buy …. and don’t forget your recycling.

The Elmsett ECO group is also organising an Easter Woodland trail during the day, so there are lots of fun and activities to suit everyone at this month’s market.

Jan King

The Gareth Meredith Memorial Walk

Alan and Beryl Meredith invite you to join them on the Gareth Meredith Memorial Walk in memory of their late son who loved walking. The 5½ mile walk will start at Boxford Health Centre and end at its counterpart in Hadleigh. There is no signing up or joining fee but it is hoped that walkers will make a donation to the Hadleigh and Boxford Health Centre Charitable Trust instead. The collection is to show the family’s appreciation for the care and support the Practice gave Gareth during his many years of ill health.

17100 Community News Magazines are delivered to homes during the first week of each month in Lavenham, Kersey, Bildeston, Chelsworth, Boxford, Milden, Edwardstone, Groton, Whatfield, Monks Eleigh, Brent Eleigh, Elmsett, Hintlesham, Polstead, Newton Green, Raydon, Hitcham and other outlets in these areas.

We warmly welcome all your contributions of articles, letters, sports reports, events and photographs, just email or send to the address below and it will appear in the next issue.

Deadline for copy is the 18th of each and every month

Editor: Kelvin Avis 01473 823366 kelvin@keithavis.co.uk

To place an advert: Matt Barber 01473 823366 Mobile: 07799 313838 matt@keithavis.co.uk

It is important to emphasise that this is not a competitive event but rather an opportunity to remember Gareth and or just enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the beautiful countryside between Boxford and Hadleigh. Families and well behaved dogs (on the lead) are most welcome. The route will be clearly marked. Walkers will be expected to make their own way to the Boxford Health Centre where parking is limited. Participants walk at their own risk and will be expected to respect the countryside along the way. Comfort facilities will be available at the Hadleigh Health Centre.

If you have any queries about the walk please contact Alan Meredith 01473 822 433 or alan.k.meredith@btinternet.com

Could the Brett be Bretter

You may remember the headline from our April 2022 article read “Our River is in Safe Hands”. Well, a year later and with so much press around poor river health, HEAT is delighted to share its current findings and thoughts. In the last year through a group of committed volunteers and funding from our local council, 30 samples have been taken from 5 points in the Brett. The samples have been analysed for river fly invertebrate life and then scored using a recognised Environment Agency (EA) method. The Brett is averaging a score of 6-7 out of a maximum of 18. This is not fantastic but equally not a disaster, with the Stour further downstream only scoring between 2-3. The fact that the EA recognise this method, allowed HEAT to request an investigation at Chelsworth last summer.

The sampling team have also taken on measuring temperature, PH, Dissolved Oxygen, Conductivity, Nitrates and E.Coli to build up a baseline of data. HEAT is also very proud that they secured a 7x24 monitoring EA Sonde device along the River Walk, that measures a comprehensive set of river parameters with the data being publicly available. Last summer HEAT rolled up their sleeves to do some “heavy lifting” with significant removal of Himalayan Balsam, that if left, would destabilise the river banks. Also in the autumn, piles and piles of duck weed that reduces flow, oxygen levels and holds excess nutrients in the river were removed.

HEAT has continued to progress its objectives to work and learn with other entities such as other voluntary groups, Babergh (Reclaim the Rain project), Essex and Suffolk River Trust, EA, Town Council, Affinity and Anglia Water. In Feb HEAT had an extremely interesting visit to Hadleigh Sewage Treatment plant, gaining valuable insights, allowing appreciation that there are two sides to every story. River health is clearly an emotive topic nationally and locally so HEAT will be hosting a presentation and discussion on April 27th at 7.30pm at the Baptist Church on George Street, Hadleigh. Above topics will be presented in more depth and all are welcome to listen, discuss, or put your hand up for some volunteering.

For more informat ion visit our website www.hadleighheat.org or contact hadleigh.heat@hotmail.com

Cavendish Bowls Club are looking for new members

We are a very friendly bowls club and have bowlers at all levels, and will welcome you all. If you have not played before do come along and give it a try. Flat shoes are required and we have spare bowls for you to use. We meet every Wednesday evening at 6pm behind The Bull Pub in Cavendish. We also play in the Steeple Bumpstead Bowls League and play inter-club competions and more, we have 6 rinks, some of which are available during the week.

We are also having open days on 15th & 22nd April 2 pm - 5 pm

For more information please Contact Brian Titus 07793 394103 or e-mail brntitus@aol.com

Moving home in 2023?

What’s the risk of your transaction falling-through?

It is probably more likely than you think but your choice of conveyancer can make all the difference.

Give yourself the best chance of a successful completion on your home purchase or sale by working in partnership with Holmes & Hills Solicitors. Benefit from our successful completion rate that is 22% higher than the national average reported by Rightmove1

What number of property transactions fall-through? Rightmove report that, on average across the country, approximately 30% of property transactions fall-through2. It is a much higher percentage than most buyers and sellers expect it to be.

Reduce the risk of your transaction falling-through Those using Holmes & Hills Solicitors' conveyancing services benefit from a 22% higher successful completion rate compared to the national average. This means your transaction has an increased chance of successfully completing when Holmes & Hills is advising and representing you in your property transaction. Why do property transactions fall-through? Your transaction might fallthrough for a number of reasons, including your buyer finding another property; a surveyor identifying issues with the property; or a buyer’s solicitor identifying issues surrounding matters such as rights of way, covenants, lease terms, easements, overage, options or boundary issues.

Why is Holmes & Hills’ successful completion rate 22% higher? Holmes & Hills has a large team of 22 property lawyers dealing with second-hand, new-build and shared ownership property across the country. The size of the team means there is unlikely to be an issue the team hasn’t seen and resolved before. Proactively identifying and resolving problems means we can keep your transaction on course, reducing the risk of your property transaction falling through and securing you a successful completion.

Benefit from fixed fee packages As well as an increased chance of your transaction successfully completing, Holmes & Hills provides fixed-fee residential conveyancing quotes with no hidden charges. When you obtain conveyancing quotations from other law firms you may find charges for completing Stamp Duty Land Tax forms, dealing with lenders and leasehold fees. With Holmes & Hills, these items are included within our legal fee. We give you a simple, transparent, fixed-fee quotation.

Partner with Holmes & Hills to secure your transaction By working in partnership with our clients, local estate agents, mortgage brokers, and financial advisors, Holmes & Hills' residential property lawyers will ensure a smooth transaction, whilst protecting your legal interests.

Call Holmes & Hills Solicitors on 01787 275275 and ask to speak to Paige Hornabrook or email advice@holmes-hills.co.uk.

1Holmes & Hills' successful completion rate is calculated using sample data for 526 residential property transactions started between July 2022 to September 2022 and is compared to the national average successful completion rate of 70.3% (provided by Rightmove, 13/02/2023).

2Rightmove data supplied on 13/02/2023.

Polstead Gardening Club

Our spring season of meetings is drawing to a close, coming up we have:

Tuesday 11 Apr at 7.30pm:

Container Planting for all year colour with Gavin Edwards

Summer Break

Tuesday 26 Sept at 7.30pm:

Lisa Matthews from Nature’s Citizen talking about the Polstead Project All meetings will be at Polstead Village Hall on the green in Polstead (CO6 5AL). Free to members. Non-members are welcome £5 (cash or cheque please). Includes a drink and nibbles.

Further information from: gardeningclubpolstead@yahoo.com

Hurd Carpentry & Building Ltd

Hurd Carpentry & Building Ltd was expanded in 2021 after more than 10 years of already being in the trade. In those years the company has built extensions, renovated barns, installed beautiful kitchens & bathrooms and created home offices. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional quality every time. If you would like to find out more, get in touch.

“It was a professional service from start to finish. Very pleased with the quality of work from Hurd Carpentry & Building Ltd. All completed by a team who were considerate and hard working. Highly recommend.” - Sam, Colchester Tel: 07584 317068 or 01449 706526

info@hurdcarpentry.co.uk / www.hurdcarpentry.co.uk

Lavenham Sinfonia

The Sinfonia’s exciting 2023 season is almost upon us with the first concert due to take place towards the end of the month. The season contains the usual 3 concerts in April, June and September but also a special memorial concert for Phyllis Urch in November.

The Orchestra is continuing with its strategy of inviting different guest conductors to lead each concert. This has worked well since the concerts restarted after the pandemic and the players and audience alike enjoy experiencing different interpretations of familiar pieces as well as different approaches technical styles of conducting.

The first concert is scheduled for 23rd April 2023 at 19:00 at the Church. The concert opens with Ravel’s popular suite “Le tombeau de Couperin” originally composed for piano in 1917, Ravel orchestrated four of the movements in 1919, these are Prelude, Forlane, Menuet and concluding with the Rigaudon. The suite brings together the dance music of the 17th Century as composed by Francois Couperin.

The opening piece will be followed by Manuel Ponce’s Concierto del Sur (Guitar Concerto composed in 1941 for the guitarist Andres Segovia who played the first performance that same year. The concerto is in 3 movements – an opening Allegretto, a slow Andante and a lively concluding Allegro Moderato e festivo. The soloist for the Sinfonia’s performance was to have been Giorgio Serci but sadly he has suffered and injury and is not now available. His place has been taken by Francisco Correa who trained Barcelona, and Paris before completing a Master’s degree in London graduating in 2015.

The concert concludes with Haydn’s final symphony No.104 in D Major “London”. Composed in 1795 it was first performed in London in May of that year directed by the composer. The symphony opens with a short adagio leading leading to the D Major opening theme. It is followed by a slower Andante that leads to the third movement which is a traditional but lively Menuetto and Trio. The symphony concludes with an exuberant finale in fast tempo and in sonata form. It is said to have been inspired by Haydn’s personal experience of London.

Vincente Chavarria returns after his successful debut with the Sinfonia last year to conduct the orchestra for this exciting concert.

Please do reserve the date for the concert which I am sure will be a great opening to the Sinfonia’s season containing a good mixture of well-known and lesser-known works.

Tickets are available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/lavenham-sinfonia. Do come and join us at Lavenham Church!

Registered charity No. 109175

Hadleigh Guildhall Clubs, Groups, & Associations

Are you looking for somewhere to ……

MEET, TEACH, LEARN, SHARE, TALK, DANCE, SING, EXERCISE! PAINT, SEW, CRAFT, REHEARSE, PERFORM, CREATE!

Whatever your activity, Hadleigh Guildhall has a space suitable for you. Situated in the centre of Hadleigh the Guildhall has a range of rooms perfect for Clubs Groups and Associations to use. Small groups of just 10 or 20 people are comfortable in the council chamber, larger groups in the Guildroom or Dining room, and the Grand Hall can accommodate over 100. Hire can be weekly, monthly, quarterly, or a single booking as a venue for a special meeting or AGM. Hadleigh Market Feoffment Charity offer discounted and preferential hire rates to Hadleigh residents or Hadleigh groups/associations. Rooms can be a clear space for exercise based activities or set out to your requirements with tables and chairs. Audio-visual, Public-Address system and stage are all available and the Garden can be used to enhance any activity, in addition a Bar can be provided if required.

Hadleigh Guildhall is a building of outstanding character, and an asset for the benefit of all who live in and around Hadleigh, why not see for yourself what it has to offer ?

Viewings are encouraged and most welcome. Contact the booking clerk on 01473 822544 or email info@hadleightownhall.co.uk

Hadleigh Old School Art for your home & garden

Hadleigh Old School, the events venue at 5 Bridge Street, Hadleigh IP7 6BY, presents three forms of decorative objects: garden sculpture, watercolour paintings and homewares across two weekends this April. Entry to the exhibition is free including the opening Preview night at 7pm Friday 14 April 2023, and continuing Sat 15 (10-5) Sun 16 (11-4), Sat 22 (10-5) Sun 23 (11-4).

Rain E Days is the name of garden sculptor Peter Day. Peter’s medium is predominantly steel, and he also uses natural stone and wood to enhance the pieces, with works fashioned from materials new, reclaimed and recycled. He will be creating a sculpture trail throughout the grounds of Hadleigh Old School, with two dozen works displayed in the walled garden and in the wilderness. A graceful metallic form could enhance your garden and give it a contemporary feeling – some titles may convey the spirit of the artworks: ‘Harmony’, Cherish’ and ‘Allium’. Leslie King is a Hadleigh artist working in watercolour. The framed pictures are characterised by what may initially seem like abstract groups of boldly coloured blocks and dashes, on reflection they may appear to be impressions of places and moments. Leslie explains “I hope to convey a love of nature, hope and our emotional world”. 20 works will be displayed in our rear gallery space overlooking the garden, including both small and medium-sized pictures, ideal for your wall space. The work “Dream of Spring” is illustrated in our advertisement.

Msika Home bring their international fabric brand to our main hall. They specialise in sourcing beautiful handmade textiles created via traditional methods, with a classic yet contemporary design, for example inspired by travel along the ‘Silk Road’. Our event will feature framed textiles as well as unmounted works – so presenting you with options to enhance existing furniture or hang straight on your walls. Cultural influences range from that of Uzbekistan to Turkey, and Mexico to Ghana, always with a bold use of colour. Please email hadleigholdschool@gmail.com with any queries

Sheila Porter

Passed away 10th February 2022

A year has passed. Our love for you will never die. Michael, Asa, Rick and Sonia and Grandson Dylan.

Friday 14th April from 7pm Saturday 15th & 22nd 10am-5pm Sunday 16th & 23rd 11am-4pm

Ebony’s Blog Life at The Shelley Centre

There is renewed activity from the Fund Raising committee at the Centre, here’s a quick overview of what’s happening: Firstly, there is the Sale of preloved and vintage clothes on Saturday 1st April at The Duchy Barn, The Drift, Dedham, from 10am4.30pm. Proceeds will go towards Cancer Research UK and The Shelley Centre. Then in May comes the Coronation weekend. We shall be opening on Monday 8th for a Volunteering Day. Anyone who wants to take part in voluntary work (as suggested by King Charles for his celebrations) will be welcome here with us. We have lots of jobs which need doing, and no doubt there will be cake! Talking of cake, keep the Hadleigh Show date free, Saturday 20th May, because we shall be having our plant and cake stall as usual. I know we horses, even yours truly, cost quite a bit to keep going. We are what make The Shelley Centre work so it’s important to us to keep asking for financial support. Sorry if you are inundated with similar requests; it happens. At least we make do with one set of shoes each, none of the football shoes, rugby boots, PE kit, dancing and hockey stuff you parents have to fund! We don’t beg for treats either, so all in all we are an economical bunch. Here are two of the workers, Tilly and Belle, earning their keep on a Friday afternoon, back in March. The other photo is of equipment used in our lessons to allow people of all abilities to participate fully. It was a kind volunteer called John who made the large, clear animal pictures to hang beside the alphabet markings in the arena. We need another volunteer to repair the alphabet letters that stay out there in all weathers. Any offers? See you on May 8th perhaps? Website:

Telephone: 01473 824172

Lavenham Carpet Bowls Club

We have returned from our cruise. Whilst we were away the Carpet Bowls Club has been going from strength to strength with new players coming along to give it a go!

I thought prospective players might like to see one of the carpets, with the block that sits in the middle. The bowls, which are much smaller than Crown Green Bowls, have a bias in them which allows the carpet bowls to go round the block when bowled fairly slowly, so not a lot of strength or force is needed to do this. Bowling heavier usually produces a straight bowl and can be useful but can reduce the natural bias. The lack of excessive strength needed, plus the constant 'dry' weather makes Carpet Bowls an ideal and fun pastime. So, if you think it might be something you would like to try, come along to Lavenham Village Hall on Wednesday afternoon sessions at 2pm, or Thursday evening at 7.30. First 2 sessions are free to see if you would like Carpet Bowls and us.

Marilyn Beatham – Club Secretary

Bildeston Primary School

Learning and Growing Together

Music in Reception Goldcrest Class have had great fun learning how to play the Glockenspiel as part of their music lessons. They had a great time playing along to nursery rhymes.

Taste Testing in Kestrel Class

Following their lesson where they studied vegetables the children tasted two of those vegetables made into soup - butternut squash and carrot and coriander. Very tasty! The class are really enjoying watching their seeds grow ready for planting which include lemons, peppers, potatoes and some beautiful sweet peas – our canes are ready for them to grow onto!

Kestrel Class Visit The Wellcome Genome Campus undertakes genome and biodata research. They provide bioinformatics services to the world and they deliver vital training in genomics and biodata to scientists and clinicians. The children learned all about the Campus, about DNA, made their own DNA bracelets and got to talk with and ask the scientists at Wellcome lots of questions. They also looked around some of the buildings and one of the labs where testing takes place. A super interesting day!

World Book Day Congratulations to everyone who brought in a potato decorated as their favourite book character, not any easy task! Children also brought their favourite book into school and they were able to enjoy the pleasure of reading in lots of different areas in the school. Staff enjoyed going into other classes to share their favourite books with the children. To coincide with World Book Day, we were delighted to have the author, Steve Skidmore visit us at Bildeston! Steve has been writing books for over twenty-five years and has produced over 230 titles. The children enjoyed workshops and a really interactive day sharing a writers’ enthusiasm for books.

The Great Fire of London This term KS1 are learning about The Great fire of London! The children have been exploring being a fire fighter, painting pictures of the fire, looking at wheels and axles by making their own cars and building London landmarks. They even recreated the houses on Pudding Lane!

If you are considering Bildeston Primary as a school for your child, we would welcome a visit. Please phone the office on the number below. We would love to meet you.

Bildeston Primary School Newberry Road, Bildeston, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP7 7ESTelephone: 01449 740269 Website: www.bildeston.suffolk.sch.uk

Planning and enjoying your retirement

Pensions can appear mystifying, but they are just a savings account like any other, with a couple of special features.

In most circumstances HMRC will make a contribution to your savings every time you do. This is even true if you are self-employed (subject to certain conditions).

My top tips for this month

Before retiring: Pensions can be one of the most tax-efficient and flexible ways to save. To maximise their benefits annual reviews with a qualified Financial Adviser are essential.

At retirement: You will have multiple options available to you, and making the wrong decision could be detrimental to your future financial security. It is vital you engage with an expert at this stage to ensure you fully understand the impact of your choices.

Post-retirement: Did you know you could boost your wealth by maintaining a pension? If you are in a position to be able continue to pay into the account, you may be able to access advantageous tax breaks.

Contributions could qualify for income tax relief. In addition, the fund may be exempt from inheritance tax, and could grow without capital gains tax.

If you would like guidance through the retirement minefield call us. We are here to make a difference to your future.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.

The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. Tax relief is dependent on individual circumstances.

Joel Runnels-Moss DipFA Director

07852 374908 01473 824986

Joel.Toucan@SJPP.co.uk

Carrier’s Restaurant

Wish you were a million miles from the hustle and bustle? Would you enjoy a breath of peace and tranquillity in our stunning environment? Well look no further. Come for a break from “the real world” to Hintlesham Hall’s magnificent restaurant, terraces and gardens. There are different dining options available to suit all….

The restaurant offers a menu full of options and flavour, perfect for any formal and informal occasion from birthday celebrations to family meals out.

Our herb and vegetable garden, which is now in full swing once more, producing a mass of vegetables for the Kitchen including: Fine Beans, Broad Beans, Sugar Snaps, Heritage Carrots, Courgettes, Swiss Chard, Kohl Rabi, Cavolo Nero, Curly Kale, along with a variety of Salads, Herbs and Fruits appearing on our seasonal menus. Why not enjoy a cocktail or two in-front of the open fire in one of our lounges or outside on the terrace.

Hintlesham Hall, Ipswich, IP8 3NS. Tel: 01473 652334

www.hintleshamhall.com

St Edmundsbury Male Voice Choir

Charity Concerts

St Edmundsbury Male Voice Choir (SEMVC) is a registered charity that sing for good causes across Suffolk and the surrounding area. Formed in 1988 by four teachers, St Edmundsbury Male Voice Choir currently numbers approximately 60 members drawn from Bury St Edmunds and its surrounding villages and as far afield as Ipswich, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. We rehearse at Howard Community Academy, Beard Road, Bury St Edmunds IP32 6SA every Thursday from 7.30 pm–9.30 pm (during term time) and are always on the lookout for new members.

Why not come and hear us at our forthcoming concert on 22nd April at 7 pm at St Botolphs Church, Queens Street, Colchester, CO2 7EE, Appearing with Chorus Iceni a well-known ladies Acapella Group and world champion senior barbershop quartet, One Foot in the Stave. The concert is in aid of raising money for domestic violence victims within the South Suffolk and North Essex area as well as secondly raising money to update the neo-natal wards for both Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals.

Concert tickets available at £13 per person online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/St-Edmundsbury-Male-Voice-choir Visit our website https://www.semvc.com/ for full information.

BOXFORD CHURCH FUNDRAISER

THE LONDON TRIOS - HAYDN

Friday 21st April at 7.30 pm

St. Mary’s Church, Boxford

Violin Rhianwen : Flute Mary Blanchard : ‘Cello Edward Gold

Adults £10; Under 18s FREE www.ticketsource.co.uk/boxford-concerts

Boxford Post Office or on the door

H INTLESHAM H ALL SUFFOLK

CARRIER’S RESTAURANT

FINE DINING TO EVERYDAY DINING

Eat al fresco weather permitting and enjoy our wonderful gardens

Monday – Saturday

Two course lunch, glass of wine & coffee @ £31.50 per person

Three course lunch, glass of wine & coffee @ £38.50 per person

Sunday Lunch

Two course lunch @ £29.50 per person

Three course lunch @ £36.50 per person

Tea & Coffee £3.50

Book lunch or Dinner with us and receive a complimentary aperitif, quote Spring 23 (valid until 31st August 2023)

HINTLESHAM HALL

Hintlesham, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3NS Reservations Tel: +44(0)1473 652334

www.hintleshamhall.com

07543 426401

Hadleigh and Boxford Patient Participation Group (PPG)

As Covid is no respecter of persons, it’s not surprising Practice staff has also been laid low and often obliged to stay home. Whilst every effort is made to maintain normal service there were times in March when this was very difficult. Let’s hope that by the time this edition comes out everyone is feeling better and able to return to work.

The Practice is also enduring ongoing renovations, sanctioned by the landlord, which may cause some unavoidable disruption especially the works vehicles in the car park. Please be patient patients while the face lift continues. It will all be worthwhile. The High School Art Department has kindly agreed to grace the newly painted room with their students’ work.

The fallen tree near the surgery car park has been reported to the landlord and will be dealt with asap. There is another new defibrillator in Hadleigh. A joint effort with The Hadleigh and Boxford Medical Centre Charitable Trust, London Hearts, The Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service and Probus all contributing to its appearance on the outside wall of the Hadleigh Fire Station. The last free training session, supporting the use of these machines, was on March 11th. In total over 120 attendees attended the classes. Sincere thanks to the Hadleigh First Responders team for giving their time and the benefit of their expertise at each session. Thanks, too, to Jonathan Harvey of Abbeycroft for generously allowing us to use the Social Room. The NHS has launched a Compassionate Companion scheme in the hope that some caring citizens will give their time and support to those who need it. See below for further information.

Via James Cartlidge, the PPG has received a somewhat obscure reply from the Department of Health and Social Care or DHSC. Their Email is designed to reassure us that all is kosher with the procurement process for the contract to manage our personal information on the much enlarged NHS data base. It also confirms the future safety and security of the information in their care. There was no indication when the system or plans for its acquisition would be openly discussed in Parliament. Only time will tell if our fears are well founded or not. Another reminder to check your medicine before you walk out of the Pharmacy. If you wait until you have left the chemist any excess medicine you return will be wasted. Have you collected the info you need from the Practice Reception to start booking your doctor’s appointments on line? If you need help to log in etc., Babergh D.C are offering free IT classes on first Thursday of the month In the Hadleigh Library. This will go some way to reducing the number of telephone calls.

Subject to confirmation, a Covid booster clinic will take place on 29th April. Local availability of vaccine will determine who is invited to attend. The Practice is in the hands of NHS procurement for that information. I am recruiting car park volunteers. The PPG will be helping with the Gareth Meredith Memorial Walk on Sunday 16 July’23. See details elsewhere in this magazine. Finally, with Easter coming there will be a lot of chocolate around. As life is nothing without a little guilty pleasure now and again why not indulge, in moderation, and choose a healthy option? Dark chocolate is a fantastic source of antioxidants which protect your body from all kinds of nasty health issues. HAPPY EASTER.

www.hadleighhealth.co.uk

www.facebook.com/Hadleigh-Boxford-Group-Practice

PPG Chair: Jan Devey 01473 827 091 Email: devey@btinternet.com www.compassionate-communities.co.uk/compassionate-companions

Contact: Dr Crockett. lindsey.crockett@nhs.net or 07443 020291

(leave a message)

Winston’s Wheels Disabled Dog Charity

Are holding a Spring Fair

on Saturday 15th April between 10am and 2pm at Newton Green Village Hall, School Lane, CO10 0QS

Tombola, Linens, Handbags, Art Corner, Pet Goodies & much more Refreshments from 50p. Free entrance & parking

Jazz at Monks Eleigh Village Hall

The Wendy Kirkland Trio with Roger Beaujolais

A swinging mix of keyboard, guitar and vibes

Saturday, 27th May 2023

Doors and bar open: 7.00 pm – free nibbles

Show starts: 7.30 pm

Tickets: £20.00 available from: sarah@sarahbennettjazz.com or 0771 821 5775

Also available on the door (cash please!) Raffle + ample parking!

Proceeds to the Monks Eleigh Community Shop

Accounts Assistant Required

This is expected to be a full-time role within our small business services department. The ideal candidate will already have experience in the following areas:

•Business record keeping, including the preparation and submission of VAT returns

•Preparation of accounts for sole traders, partnership, and small limited companies

•Preparation and submission of payrolls on behalf of clients

The role would suit an individual who will either be qualified with the Association of Accounting Technicians, or working towards this qualification.

Salary – Subject to experience and qualifications

Email CV to info@walterwright.co.uk

It’s Nearly Showtime...

As spring arrives Tomlinson Groundcare are starting to think about the upcoming shows. These have always been important to us, our founder Robert Tomlinson was a true showman who was never happier than when he was at a local or county show meeting new and existing customers. Sadly Robert passed away in 2019 but his legacy and ethos remain at the core of the company today. Although the internet provides plenty of information, there is nothing like face to face communication and that is why the company is planning to attend the East Anglian Game Fair at Euston Park on 22/23rd April, the South Suffolk Show at Ampton racecourse on 14th May, the Hadleigh Show at Holbecks Park on 20th May and the Suffolk Show on the 31st May and 1stJune at Trinity Park, Ipswich. John Deere has always been our main franchise for ride on lawn mowers, tractors and utility vehicles but over the years other franchises have been added these include AL-KO, ECHO, EGO, Charterhouse, Billy Goat, Pellenc, Dennis/Sisis, Grillo, SCH, Team Sprayers D.W.Tomlin and Weibang. We stock chainsaws, blowers, strimmers, hedge cutters, chippers, scarifiers, sweepers etc. Full details can be found on our website www.tomlinsongroundcare.co.uk

If you are not planning to attend any of the shows above or you’d prefer to visit us, you are very welcome at our premises at Buxhall. We have a large purpose built showroom with an extensive range of machinery plus a parts, merchandise and toys department. Set in 20 acres you can try machines before you buy. We can also bring ride on machines to your premises for you to test.

Our experienced sales team Adrian and Paul, have a wealth of experience and knowledge to assist you in selecting the right machine. They can advice you on how to achieve the desired results in your garden, grounds or sports fields. Whether you are looking for battery or petrol powered mowers or up to 115hp tractors why not contact Tomlinson Groundcare for a friendly chat on 01449 736060.

For service or repairs please call the same number

unwitting gardener

Spring is in full pelt with all its colour and its fragrance, and summer feels within touching distance. But the most important garden jargon to know at this time of year is the terms ‘hardy’ and ‘tender’. ‘Hardy’ means the plant can withstand frosts; ‘tender’ means it cannot.

Important to know especially in the earlier half of the month when night-time temperatures can still plummet, wiping out summer bedding and grow-yourown plants bought too early. The good news is that April is a great time of year for getting hardy plants established in the garden ahead of fabulous summer displays – you will even have your fingers crossed for some April showers to help them settle in! Bridge Farm Plants in Monks Eleigh has an extensive selection of cottage garden perennials, roses, alpines, herbs and shrubs which can all go straight out into the garden now, and are all plants that should give years of pleasure. Ranges are clearly marked to help you find what you need, with guidance to make sure you buy the plants that will do well for you, whether you need something for shade, something for dry soil or maybe something for a planter.

Knowledgeable staff can give you any extra advice you need, so you get the right plants for the right places. With plants supplied by Katie’s Garden near Ipswich, requests can be taken for larger quantities or for varieties not in stock, so it is always worth asking if there is something you had your heart set on. Later into April the lean-to of Bridge Farm Plants begins to fill with those longed-for “early bird” patio & basket plants, alongside starter vegetable and salad plants, and your hanging baskets can be expertly refilled for collection in May or June.

Find out more at www.bridgefarmplants.co.uk or better yet visit the nursery, on the Corn Craft site, making sure you bring your voucher for a free Suffolk-grown perennial plant!

BOOK SALE

Sunday 14th May 2023 11pm to 4pm

Layham Village Hall, Lower Layham IP7 5LY

St. Andrews Church Plant Sale and Cream Teas 2-4pm

Proceeds to the church

Adult Fiction: thriller, crime, detective, romance - well known authors. Non-Fiction: Many categories. Specialist interest books from a private collection. Children’s Books: All ages.

Profits from book sales to Layham Village Hall (Charity Number 294007) towards upkeep of the hall. £1 entry, children free. Cash only please.

April is a glorious time of year in the garden…and a dangerous time for the

Hadleigh Garden Club

Our AGM in March was very well supported and it was great to get two new volunteers to join the committee. The members will bring fresh ideas and hopefully help the club continue to flourish. Annual membership remains £12. The meeting was followed by a brilliant talk from Jo Hull, shown on right of this picture with her business partner Carla Hammersley.

Jo and her husband Dave have survived many traumatic set backs while setting up their nursery, previously Applewood Acres in Bentley. They now run Benton End Flower Farm on the outskirts of Hadleigh…appointments only.

Growing cut flowers for sale at local markets and used in workshops they plan to expand this year. You may remember Jo selling her salad bags on Hadleigh market but Covid disrupted those plans. She is so enthusiastic and comes back after knockbacks even stronger.

She says “Plant dreams…Grow miracles” - Good luck with their future plans…hard work and the love of flowers will carry them to success.

Due to Easter falling the second weekend in April our meeting is moved to Monday 17th Chris Wiley will be talking on Sweet Peas. The competition is three tulips mixed or the same. Do join us as hopefully spring will be with us and the wet and frosty conditions of March a distant memory.

As usual we meet at 7.30 pm in the Guildhall, £2 member /£4 guests. A warm welcome awaits plus raffle, a cuppa and natter

Hadleigh Flower Club

For our March meeting we had a floral demonstration held by Doreen Robinson, entitled “Embracing Colour”. She was a newly qualified demonstrator and this being only her 2nd demonstration. She gave us a lovely evening filled with lots of fresh spring flowers and colours.

Our next meeting will be an extra special one and not to be missed, as it the committee doing the demonstration, their title is “Childhood Memories”. Tuesday 11th April, Hadleigh United Reformed Church, arrival 7pm for 7.30pm start. On the 18th April 2023 we will be holding a Spring Luncheon at Monks Eleigh village hall, 12pm for 12.30pm. There will be a fashion show, stalls, and a raffle. We will be giving a donation from the event to The Shelley Centre for Therapeutic riding, which is a great local cause. If you are interested in coming along and would like a ticket, they are £17.50 and include a drink on arrival, a two-course lunch and tea/coffee, then please call Jenny on 01473 822971/07786 721807. We look forward to seeing you soon.

News from Whatfield CEVCP School

Acorns Class (Reception, Yr1 & 2) Acorn class had an educational visit to Christchurch Mansion which formed part of our history topic this term. We had a lovely time making butter, learning how to wash clothes the Victorian way, looking at how toys have changed and learning how to walk and sit correctly!

We have also been looking after flowers in science, placing them in different environments such as in complete darkness, or having no water to see how it will affect their growth, they have been documenting the changes that they are seeing. We have been using the school instruments and laptops to create beets and rhythms.

Saplings Class (Yr3 & 4) As part of our Geography topic we have been studying mountains. The children recreated mountains using Papier Mache. We had a mixture of creations ranging from dome, volcanic and plateau. We were also very fortunate to have two parent visitors in school who kindly shared with us their hobbies. Children were very lucky to have a try at playing the cello and to dress up in some 1940’s costume! We have been very active, learning to play tennis and doing gymnastics in our PE sessions.

Oaks Class (Yr5 & 6) Oaks were very fortunate to visit the Genome Science Centre in Saffron Walden. We learnt that there are 3.2 billion letters in a human DNA sequence and it took 13 years to originally map it, but now with modern technology they can do the same task on computers in half an hour. We were able to have a go at making our own DNA bracelets.

We have completed our bikeability assessment, and have enjoyed dancing to Dolly Parton as part of our dance module and enjoyed the outside spaces whilst reading on World Book Day.

If you are considering Whatfield Church of England Voluntary Controlled Primary as a school for your child, do please get in touch with us. We would welcome a visit after school hours due to Covid-19. Please phone the office on the number below or email us. We would love to meet you.

Whatfield CEVCP School, Rectory Road, Whatfield, IP7 6QU 01473 823309, admin@whatfield.suffolk.sch.uk

French’s Care Haven

Hello to our readers, I hope you have all been keeping well. One of our photo’s this month is of Lucy our therapy dog sitting with one of our 3 month old rescue kittens. Lucy has a heart of gold and loves people and all animals and birds, she is the perfect girl to give those in need, her one to one therapy. The other is our Lady who has a cheeky look in her eye in this photo. We did get a response to our request for tall metal cabinets, I would like to thank David for the cabinets from his office in London and Emma who gave from her work place in Ipswich and Brian for going to collect the ones Emma’s workplace donated to us in Ipswich. Now we need to clear all the feed room out, so the animal’s rugs and equipment can be put away in these metal cabinets and kept away from animal intruders that destroy everything. I would also like to thank Mrs McIntyre for a donation she sent in the post which paid for two of our ponies to have trims from the farrier. Also a thank you to Cherry, we could do with more people like you Cherry. A lady called Diana contacted me and Sharon as she sadly had lost her horse and wanted all their belongings to come to us, to keep or sell, thank you Diana that was nice of you to think of French’s.

I am still looking for someone who has a few hours to spare a week, to help us with fencing and general maintenance, please call me if you can help. This year if you are looking to do a sponsored bike ride, a walk or anything you enjoy doing to keep fit and help a charity, please consider French’s. Last year we had a wonderful lady Pamela who rode her bike for 80 miles when she reached 80 years old and Pamela raised a super amount of £800 for our rescued animals. We totally depend on lovely people like Pamela, we also had Debbie who raised money as a scarecrow at an event, some of the money Debbie raised was donated to French’s. I would love to hear from you if you can help us and let me know what you plan to do, so that I can let locals know what you are doing and how they can sponsor you.

Our Charity are looking forward to the Monks Eleigh Fete and dog show this year on 3rd June from 1pm-5pm, we had a stand at this event last summer, it was a great day for us and all the people who came along to the Fete, it is nice to be invited back. If you hold any events where we can have a stand please let us know, then our Charity can help by promoting your day and of course let all those people out there who are unaware of us at French’s, know that we exist. Please call Sharon if you have an event this year that we could attend, on: 0799 9051401 or email Sharon: frenchs.100club@gmail.com

French’s is a charity on your doorstep, can you help, either with time, donations, or sponsorship. You are welcome to come along and meet our animals.

Call me for an appointment. Jann on: 07747755556 or email: jann.turner@hotmail.co.uk www.frenchscarehven.org.uk

Kersey Table Tennis Club

We are a small and friendly club and welcome players of all abilities. The purpose of the club is social and recreational. We do not play competition. We operate from Kersey village hall on Thursday evenings between 7:30pm and 9:00pm. Our fees are: Adults £2.50 for one hour or £3.00 for the full session, Juniors (under 18) £2.00 irrespective of duration.

Contact: Adrian Blyth 01473 827805 (amblyth1@gmail.com)

News from Lavenham Library

Thank you for helping us to celebrate Suffolk Libraries Day in March Suffolk Libraries is a charity which runs the library service in Suffolk and this is our annual fundraising event. At Lavenham we held a raffle with a variety of donations from local businesses and our Friends Group who support the library with fundraising. We do not have the total amount raised at the time of printing but will let you know in the May edition.

Easter holiday activity for children

We are holding an African Drumming Workshop on Thursday 13th April 3.00pm – 4.00pm which costs £2.00 per child (accompanied by an adult).

This activity is suitable for primary aged children and due to the limited numbers will need to be booked and paid for in advance either by emailing lavenham.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk by telephoning 01787 247729 or by coming into the library and speaking to a member of staff.

Tot Rock Bring your tots and join us in the library for a fun session of active songs and rhymes for under 5s held every Thursday from 2pm-3pm during term time. The session involves 30 minutes of singing activities followed by half an hour of ‘Stay and Play’ where refreshments and chat can be enjoyed. Indoor Kurling Join us every Friday afternoon from 2.30pm – 4.00pm for this fun indoor adult activity that helps to improve strength and mobility with refreshments and chat included!

Top Time Group Top Time is our sociable drop-in group for all adults. We hold fortnightly Tuesday meetings from 2.30-4.00pm. We provide a wide range of talks and activities.

Lego Club Held every Saturday between 11am – 12pm. A drop-in session for children of all ages.

Lavenham Library, Lavenham Village Hall, Church St. CO10 9QT Tel No: 01787 247729 www.suffolklibraries.co.uk

Email: lavenham.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk

Hadleigh Orchestra

Hadleigh Orchestra, in conjunction with St Mary’s Church, Hadleigh, are planning on putting on a ‘Last Night of the Proms’ concert on 21st October 2023. We are looking for enthusiastic singers of all abilities to join us for a fun evening of making music together, with the classic Proms items, including Land of Hope and Glory, Jerusalem, and Rule Britannia. We will also be performing the choral works, Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah, and Faure’s Cantique de Jean Racine. There will be a rehearsal to include singers on Monday 16th October and again on the afternoon of the concert.

It would be great to have a mixed group of singers

– if you are interested in coming along please scan the QR code for more details.

We are also keen to welcome new players to the orchestra, preferably Grade 4 standard or above. The orchestra meets on a Monday evening at Beaumont School, 14 Durrant Rd, Hadleigh, IP7 6GD from 7.30-9.15pm.

If you are interested please pop along on a Monday evening (term-time) or get in contact via our website, http://hadleighorchestra.uk/ You will be assured of a friendly welcome amongst a group of friends who simply enjoy making music together.

CHAMBERLIN CLOSE, BILDESTON, SUFFOLK, IP7 7EZ Tel: 07716 921514

Latest News from Chamberlin Hall

Chamberlin Hall is a local community hall situated just off the main high street in Bildeston. The Hall is a large venue and offers lots of facilities and services open to the public and available to hire for business or pleasure.

Over the last few months, we’ve been really busy making improvements to our facilities having been awarded a community grant from Babergh Mid-Suffolk District Council – big thanks to the council and the grant team for their support in applying for and securing a grant. We have been using the project budget wisely and have managed to invest in a lot of improvements to the facilities and services we provide – these include improving our website and marketing, investing in new projection equipment and new commercial catering equipment amongst other things. We have also upgraded our lighting, heating and have had tinted film added to the windows – all of these initiatives have not only improved the quality of the facilities but also made a significant contribution to reducing our carbon footprint. It’s been a lot of work but we’re really pleased with all the improvements we’ve been able to make to our facilities and are now starting to see the benefits for our customers. This was only phase one of our ambitious improvement plans – we’ll keep you posted on further developments.

Our highlight from last month was hosting The Kicks for one of our live music nights – great night, great music, and lots of dancing – we’ll be running this event again! (Photos on the website!)

Coming up during April, in addition to all our regular events, clubs and classes, we’ll be getting the Karaoke out on 1st April, Bingo on the 8th and one of our favourite events – Easter Family Disco on 13th April – open to all ages with music, food, games and chocolate – and the bar is open for the adults!

In May we are working in partnership with Bildeston’s Sports Pavilion and BNatural community teams to host a King’s Coronation Party – Picnic at the Pavilion – on Sunday 7th May at the sports field in Bildeston – we’re planning a chilled afternoon with live music, dog show, bar and BBQ and some crafting activities for the kids and much more – fingers crossed the weather will be fine by then!

Looking further ahead, preparations for our annual beer festival which will take placed on 14th, 15th and 16th July are well underway and the beer and cider menu is taking great shape!

So – if you fancy finding out more or joining in with any of our events, please come and see us or check out our website where you can always find out what is going on - and if you have any ideas on events or activities you’d like to see at Chamberlin Hall – please let us know – we’d love to hear from you!

www.chamberlinhall.org

Chamberlin Hall in Bildeston is a large village hall with fantastic facilities for clubs, classes, meetings, events and parties (including wi-fi, parking and licensed bar).

We host a lot of events for our local community and the facility is available to hire.

To find out more visit chamberlinhall.org

REGULAR EVENTS, CLUBS & CLASSESUPCOMING EVENTS

MONDAYS

Miss Lesley Dance Classes

CH Badminton Club

WEDNESDAYS CH Open Mic Night (Bar & Food) 7:30pm

FRIDAYS Pilates

CH Social Night (Bar & Food) 7pm

TUESDAYS Line Dancing Zumba

Carpet Bowls

THURSDAYS Zumba

Whistle & Wag Dog Training

MONTHLY CH Bingo CH Quiz Ladies Club

ALWAYS ON...

CH Indoor Bowls Club

• CH Snooker Club

APRIL

1st – Karaoke

8th – CH Bingo

13th –Easter Family Disco - 5pm start

MAY 7th, 12th, 25th –Bildeston Coronation Party (on the Sports Field)

13th –CH Bingo

JUNE

10th –CH Bingo

FUTURE DATES FOR YOUR DIARY...

8th July –CH Bingo

14th/15th/16th July –Chamberlin Hall Beer Festival, Bildeston

Hadleigh Swimming Club Merger

After many years of running as two successful swimming clubs, Hadleigh Dolphins and Sudbury Storms have joined forces and are soon to become ‘Hadleigh & Sudbury Swimming Club’. The club trains at both the Hadleigh and Sudbury pools with various sessions across the week catering for swimmers from a broad range of ages and abilities. We are always happy to welcome new swimmers to the club, from both locations and the many villages in between. Due to the successful amalgamation and expansion of the clubs, we are looking for new coaches to work alongside our current coaching team, delivering high quality sessions to help further stretch our swimmers. If this is of interest, please contact the club (hadleighscinfo@gmail.com).

The start of a new calendar year always brings much excitement with the Suffolk County Championships, held at Crown Pools, Ipswich. Twelve swimmers achieved the qualifying times for a total of 65 races between them. In addition to this we were able to enter relay teams for both males and females across every age group.

The County Championships started with the long-distance races, held at UEA Norwich. Byron Miller represented the club, competing in the 800m Freestyle. A fantastic swim, achieving 2nd place, a new PB and bringing home the club’s first medal of the Counties.

The following weekend saw the club represented by several swimmers across a multitude of events. Alexandra, Byron, Chloe, Christopher, Emma, Emily, Georgia, Nell, Olivia, Sebastian and Sophie swam in a host of different races. Several swimmers competed in more than one race in each session, demonstrating their competitive nature and determination. Many of the swimmers swam PB’s with some achieving Regional qualifying times. All swimmers finished in the top 10 for at least one of their events across the weekend.

The weekend saw medals for Sophie achieving silver in the 100m IM, silver in the 50m Freestyle, silver in the 200m IM, gold in the 50m Backstroke and gold in the 200m Backstroke. Byron achieved a silver in the 50m Butterfly. After a week of well-deserved rest, the swimmers were back in the pool ready to race again. The swimming club had another great weekend with swimmers making finals and achieving PB’s, again with some making the Regional qualifying times. The weekend brought medals for Christopher with bronze in the 50m Freestyle. Sophie walked away with bronze in the 100m Freestyle, silver in the 50m Butterfly and bronze in the 200m Freestyle. Chloe finished with a bronze in the 50m Butterfly.

The final weekend of racing saw two Hadleigh swimmers compete in the 400m Freestyle. Both achieving excellent PB’s and qualifying for the regional Championship later this year, fantastic effort from Byron and Emily. The County Championships finished in style with team relays. We were represented by a broad range of experienced swimmers and for some, their first experience of competitive swimming. All demonstrating great teamwork and determination. The female 10/11 team comprising of Alexandra, Evie, Olivia, Roseanna and Sophie came away with a gold in the Medley relay and a silver in the Freestyle relay.

During the Suffolk Championships swimmers accrue points, which are awarded for times achieved, with the top five races counting for each swimmer. The club had four swimmers finish in the top ten in the county for their age. Sophie (11yrs) finished in third place , Chloe (14 yrs) finished in tenth, Emily (16 yrs) finished in seventh place and Byron (12 yrs) finished in fifth.

All swimmers should be exceptionally proud of themselves for what they have achieved individually and as a team over the last four weekends. As a club we now turn the focus back to training ready for the next galas in March and April.

WHATFIELD CARPET BOWLS OPEN NIGHT

Come along and give it a try!!

Tuesday 4th April 2023 at 7.30pm

Whatfield Village Hall, Rectory Lane, Whatfield, IP76QZ

Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with us - This evening is a chance for you to have a go! We are a happy, friendly club looking for new members

Brass on the Grass

Saturday 15th July at 7.30pm

East of England Co-op Band

Open air concert at Burstall Village Hall IP8 3DU

Includes ‘Last Night of the Proms’

Adults: £12.50 & Families: £30 (2 adults & 2 children)

BBQ from 6pm

Tickets from Gillian on 07985 558014

In aid of St Mary’s, Burstall Church funds

News from the Station

Spring is my favourite time of the year. I don’t know about you but I feel like its been a long winter so I’m ready with open arms to welcome warmer days and longer nights. Unfortunately we are still having reports of antisocial behaviour regarding vehicles coming in. Officers from the Safer Neighbourhood team have had a few good results. 2 individuals have been caught drifting around a roundabout, they have been interviewed and reported to court. Another individual has been offered a retraining course over their behaviour witnessed in Morrisons car park.

On Friday 24th February I was outside Morrisons for a pop up engagement event. I was joined by our Assistant Chief Constable and Tim Passmore the Police Crime Commissioner for a while. Morrisons was the ideal location as many people from nearby villages also use the store as well as locals. Despite it being jolly cold, it was fantastic to speak to so many of you and find out if you have any concerns.

There are 3 Primary Schools and 1 High School in Hadleigh which means we often get complaints of inconsiderate parking during drop off and pick up times and near misses because children are not always road savvy and drivers are not paying attention. So how can make this better? By working collaboratively, drivers, parents, Schools, local residents, Police and Parking enforcement. If you live near a School then there has to be a common sense approach, you will know that certain times of the day it will be busy. If you are a parent driving your child to school, leave plenty of time, don’t rush. Do not block peoples driveways, do not park close to the ends of junctions and do not park on the white and yellow zigzag lines. If you are a driver, drive slower and be extra vigilant of your surroundings, some children have not learnt road safety yet and don’t realise the risks of running into the road. If you are a School, please continue to send the message to parents and get in contact with parking enforcement if it doesn’t improve. PCSO Jo Adams is often at different schools ensuring people are parking safely.

PC Katie Jarrett 582

Ipswich West and Hadleigh Community Engagement Officer

Hadleigh Cricket Club

The cricket season is drawing ever closer, and our senior sides have been working on their skills at our winter net sessions.

The next few weeks will see a flurry of activity at the ground, as various parties come together to ensure that everything is place - from rolling the pitch to getting the nets ready for outdoor training. The new decking is looking fantastic, and we look forward to welcoming some of our valued sponsors and the local community to our first game of the season on 15th April, when it will be officially opened. The first XI begin their campaign against Mildenhall, and this kicks off a summer of cricket with a home match every Saturday. There is no fee to come and watch, and non-members are welcome.

If you have not visited the club before, come along to our open day on 7th April, 10-2 to see what we have to offer both on and off the field. We are also holding a junior information evening on Friday 21st April at 7pm. New for 2023, we are offering the opportunity to support the club by purchasing a social membership. For just £25 per person, you can enjoy discounted drinks at the bar, invitations to our social events and regular newsletter updates. Visit www.hadleighcricketclub.com, or email our Social Manager Claire hccsocial@gmail.com for further information.

We look forward to welcoming you to Friars Road soon!

POLSTEAD FILMS

LIVING

14th April at Polstead Village Hall

Doors open 7 pm

Bill Nighy gives one of the finest (not to say subtlest) performances of his career to date. A mesmerising drama scripted by Kazuo Ishiguro and set in 1950s London.

Tickets £4.50. Reserve by emailing polsteadfilms@gmail.com or buy at Polstead Community Shop (along with their scrumptious cakes).

Hadleigh and District WI

March was a busy month as all groups met. We assisted the Rotary on the 17th, 18th and 25 March in their collections for the earthquake disaster in Turkey and Syria. The Amblers will be going to Flatford Mill on the 5th April. Book Worms have booked out two books: The Death of Lucy Kyte by Nicola Upson and Thursday's Child by Nicci French. The Lunch Bunch are looking forward to meeting up at The Carriers Arms in East Bergholt on the 13th April. At the time of writing we are looking forward to Tools with a Mission coming to the meeting on 21st March to tell us about the wonderful work that they do. On the 19th April we are very much looking forward to a visit from the Hedgehog Rescue service. We are exploring taking a trip on the River Orwell in May. We have welcomed four new members. If you would like to come for a 'taster' evening contact Glenn Abbassi the Secretary on 07870 312409, or Sheila Webb the President on 01473 827554 and we will look out for you. We meet on the third Tuesday - 21st March- at 7.30pm in the Seminar Room above the Library on the corner of Duke Street.

The Suffolk Stitchers

The Suffolk Stitchers are very excited to announce that our speaker for April is Dot Ronaldson. Dot is a fun, quirky and inspirational textile and mixed media artist based in East Anglia. She is using lots of up-cycled materials in combination with stitch to produce wonderful pieces of art. All welcome. The meeting is on the 20 April, 7pm for 7.30 start at Monks Eleigh Village Hall. For more information, email thesuffolkstitchers@gmail.com

Monks Eleigh Whist Drive

Wednesday 19th April 7.00 pm at Monks Eleigh Village Hall

We play 18 hands of whist, stopping for refreshments after 12 hands, we are a small but sociable group. If you enjoy playing cards do join us, no experience of Whist needed. £3.00 to play. We hold a free bring a prize, win a prize raffle. Contact Angela on 01449 740414 for more details.

Hares Cross Country on home turf!

Hadleigh Hares Running Club held our annual fixture in the North Essex and South Suffolk Cross Country league around the hills of Hadleigh on the 19th February. On what was a beautiful sunny morning 267 senior runners took on our hilly 5 mile course with a further 120 junior runners completing our 1.5 mile junior route. Our junior Hares team of 20 all ran superbly and the club are extremely proud of their efforts on what is one of the most challenging courses they are likely to encounter. Our Junior runner of the day was Alice Bates. Overall our Juniors finished the season in 5th place in their league which is a fantastic achievement. A special mention must also go to out to Laila McNeill who finished third overall in the league standings for her age group. Many thanks go out to their coaches Jo, Steve and Sam for their continued support.

Our senior Hares team put in another great performance with 7 men and 7 ladies taking on the challenge with great results achieved. Huge congratulations to Aden Bell who came second male overall in the league. Our senior runner of the day was Nathalie Hooper with a special mention going out to her, Stuart Hunt, Victoria Tapp and Aden Bell who have completed all five league fixtures this season.

On behalf of the club we would like to thank everyone who helped to make this event such a success including our wonderful marshals as well as the Holbecks Estate, Michael Craske and Hadleigh United Football Club for allowing us to use their land and facilities once again to host our annual event. This event now brings the Cross Country season to an end but rest assured we will be back again next winter!

If you fancy joining a friendly supportive running club you can find out all about us and how to join at www.hadleigh-hares.co.uk

Ken’s SESAW News

Suffolk & Essex Small Animal Welfare Reg charity no 1124029

The garden is full of birdsong heralding the arrival of Spring but it’s so cold at the time of writing! Poor old Ollie (the Black) Cat is tantalised by the nesting birds he can only watch from the window as he recovers from a little accident. He has enjoyed being pampered but he’s getting restless now. The improvements outside are coming along nicely, thanks to our willing volunteers and a work party from the Colchester based branch of Informa. The team braved miserable weather to spruce up the site and were still smiling at the end of the day. A big thank you to all of them, please come back soon! Thanks are also due to Pets At Home in Colchester for choosing SESAW as the store’s official charity for 2023. We look forward to meeting customers in store during the year.

Although we are currently ‘hibernating’ to facilitate site improvements, emergency admissions have continued as circumstances force people to part with their family pets. If you are in a more fortunate position and looking for a new four-legged companion, please check our website or drop us an email with your details.

We have many cats and dogs including Boots, a Chihuahua Terrier cross. She’s very loving and needy, having been through a lot in her life and needs a special diet to keep her fit and well. She’s a real cutie, ready to walk into your home and be the one and only your heart desires. I hope the weather has warmed up by the time you read this from me, Kenny (the Boss) Chihuahua.

Suffolk & Essex Small Animal Welfare, Registered Charity No.1124029, Stoke Road, Leavenheath, CO6 4PP. Tel: 01787 210888, www.sesaw.co.uk

Hadleigh Walkers

Our walk on Saturday 8th April will start and end in Assington just off the A134 Sudbury to Colchester Road. We will meet at Assington Village Hall car park and depart at 0930. The Village Hall is situated on the Assington to Bures Road about 100m past the Assington Farm shop on the LHS (heading towards Bures). From the car park we will head towards Mill Fm, then Tiger Hill Wood, Fysh House Fm, past St Stephen’s chapel, Highfield Fm, Farthing Hall, Leavenheath Fm, Gedding Hall and back to the car park via Mill Fm

The distance of the entire route is a little under 8 miles and we should be back in Assington around 1300. We will have a short rest stop enroute, probably at St Stephen’s Chapel with its dragon views.

As usual, we aim to maintain a not-too-demanding 2.5 mph (4 km/hr). Walkers should be aware that any weather is possible so strong shoes or preferably walking boots should be worn as the ground may be muddy or rough in places. Everyone is welcome, including well behaved dogs. As usual, route maps can be requested from the web site. For further information about these walks go to www.hadleighwalkers.com or email us at hadleighwalkers@gmail.com

Kersey Open Gardens

Saturday, 10 June 2023 11.00 am to 5.00 pm

Adults: £5 (cash only), Under 16s: Free Back at last a chance to see Kersey’s beautiful gardens

Refreshments will be available in the Village Hall throughout the day.

Proceeds will be shared between St Elizabeth Hospice in Ipswich and Kersey Projects for community events

Contact us at: kerseyprojects@gmail.com for any further details

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