Hadleigh Community News, October 2023

Preparing for the future – finds the past

When removing the current ancient Vestry floor of St Mary’s Church, to make way for a newer version, builders uncovered several interesting artefacts. Amongst the varied collection of coins, stones and bone pieces was a silver halfpenny dated 1344. This hammered coin would have been in circulation during the ‘Florin’ issue period of 1344-1351. It was struck when the Black Death wiped out an estimated one third of the population. Other readily identifiable items in the collection include shells, and various coins; Victorian halfpennies (1874 – 1891), George V and VI pennies plus obsolete currency from the 1950’s. Several other interesting shapes and objects have yet to be identified.

The collection will eventually be on display in the Sacristy. The new Vestry floor will be Ancaster stone laid in an attractive diagonal pattern. Conservation experts are currently restoring the wood panelling in the same room to enhance the original geometric designs.

Follow the St Mary’s write up each month to keep up to date on the plans to prepare St Mary’s not only for future worship but also daily community activities in comfort.

● Supply, install and maintain tailored alarm systems

Save St Mary’s (Hadleigh)

Community Project Update

Vestry Storage:- Work started earlier than anticipated which is excellent news. The floor has been dug down to prepare for an updated version in Ancaster stone. It was clear that the original floor had been much lower than previously thought. A further few inches down revealed an amazing collection of items including a silver halfpenny circa 1344 (see front page for details). Other items are being checked for their historical significance.

Heating and Lighting:- Various electrical specialists met with the Renewal Group to determine where tubes, pipes and cables will go to facilitate the upgrade in power needed for the proposed heating/lighting chandeliers. Their findings are eagerly awaited.

James Cartlidge MP Fundraising:- James Cartlidge recently participated in the (SHCT) Suffolk Historic Churches Trust’s annual Ride and Stride event. He cycled a staggering 55 miles visiting 24 churches in his constituency along the way. Provisionally, sponsorship is £1030. This will be divided equally between SHCT and St Mary’s. Sincere thanks to James for his noble effort and generous contribution.

Future Church Events, Pop-Up Lunchtimes and Café Church:- Are you joining in St Mary’s version of the last night at the Proms on 21st October? Don’t miss out on this light-hearted evening of classical music with some singing and definitely flag waving. Tickets are available from Little Ginger Bee, Avis’s or Jim Wilding (james4margaret@gmail.com / 07419 325713).

The pop-up lunchtime gatherings from 2pm to 5.30pm on Wednesdays are very popular and enjoyed by an increasing number of Hadleighites and their families. Attendance at the Café Church on Friday mornings is growing with the added attraction of a monthly Craft Fair. All these activities are in addition to the quieter times for worship and prayer. How the town would benefit if these same facilities were improved to meet modern day needs and expectations.

Please do come along and support the many varied events and activities at the church. These are open to all members of the community. Alone or with family and friends you can be sure of a warm welcome.

Hadleigh and District Angling Society

17100 Community News Magazines are delivered during the first week of each month to homes and businesses in Hadleigh, Sudbury, Bildeston, Boxford, Chelsworth, Milden, Edwardstone, Groton, Hitcham, Kersey, Monks Eleigh, Long Melford, Whatfield, Elmsett, Hintlesham, Polstead, Lavenham, Newton Green, Holton & Raydon

We warmly welcome 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: Jason Holder 01473 823366 comnews@keithavis.co.uk

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

Hadleigh and District Angling Society held their second Open Day of 2023 on Saturday 19th August. Despite a change of date due to adverse weather the event proved as popular as ever with a good attendance. On the day we also welcomed a number of juniors from our friends at The Gipping Angling Preservation Society who enjoyed a match and the hospitality of our open day. Many thanks to The Hadleigh Thrift Shop, whose generous donation enabled us to purchase items for the anglers to use and refreshments for all attendees. Also to Snowy’s Bait and Tackle for their continued sponsorship of the event.

Many of the participants were new to fishing and feedback received on the day was positive from all those who attended, with a request for some further coaching. We will be holding a coaching event on Saturday 14th October at Bullocky Fen, Layham. Spaces are limited and you will need to book in for 9.30 – 11.00 or 11:15 to 12:45.

For more details please contact Mark Snowling on 07766 140624 or Snowy’s Bait and Tackle on 01473 823043

It’s spooky... ...how easily we sell properties in your area

HALLOWEEN NIGHT

Saturday 28th October

Optional fancy dress Prize for best dressed chosen by our resident DJ Disco from 9pm till late

Book a table now –all welcome.

CHRISTMAS DAY BOOKINGS

ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT - BOOKING UP QUICKLY

Book online or pop in and pick up our Christmas Festive Menu

Book your festive works party, friends’ get togethers or that special treat - call us now!

We can cater for your group get togethers, just give us a call for more information.

Family Friendly • Well behaved dogs welcomed 01473 805794

90 High Street Hadleigh, Ipswich IP7 5EF

Kings Head

Hadleigh@kingsheadhadleigh

Champion Cyclists of the Future

Well done to all the young riders who took part in Hadleigh Cycling Club’s Summer Race League and congratulations to all the winners and runners-up! We’re truly delighted to see the progress all our riders have made over the course of the season, especially as a few of them had never ridden unaided!

“I'd like to thank Roger, Mike, Rickaby, Lucy and Kate for their commitment in supporting our Junior programme throughout 2023,” said Benson, Club Secretary and Coach. “The amazing feedback I received from riders and parents was not a surprise. And of course, massive thanks to Crockatt Garage for jump-starting our Junior programme by sponsoring the special edition of the HCC t-shirts!”

While the Junior Club is taking a break until next year, there are many exciting opportunities for our youngsters over the next few months, including the eagerly awaited Eastern Cyclocross (CX) season.

It was terrific to see the pros racing along our bunting-laden High Street on Stage 5 of the Tour of Britain. Fans and casual spectators, who lined the street, got to see a genuine cycling superstar, Wout van Aert who went on to win the Tour. And Hadleigh looked great on the telly.

On the downside, we were unable to deliver the Gayford Flyer Sportive this year because of a shortage of volunteers. Apologies to all those who had entered. Details of the route can be found on our website, and we would encourage you to ride the route at your leisure. Whilst 30 miles sounds daunting to a novice cyclist, you’re never more than 10 miles from the town on the circular routes.

The Club runs a social ride on Sundays usually starting at 9.00am from The George and there is a café stop. The rides are weather dependent so, if in doubt, check our Facebook page @hadleighcyclingclub X/Twitter @HadleighCycling Instagram @hadleighcc or www.hadleighcyclingclub.co.uk

Playstation Pre-School

As we welcome in the new school year with a lot of new children and families, we’d also like to wish all the children who have left us all the best with their new journeys in Hedgehogs Nursery, or wherever they may have moved on to. We hope you have had a lovely, positive start and we can’t wait to see you around the nursery growing up.

The children are settling in well here with us, they are getting more confident in their playing with each other and generally doing really well all-round. We are starting to focus on vehicles and different modes of transport. We like to focus these topics on our everyday activities, so this will be reflected in all areas or our playing, role play, small world, story time and our crafts. Whilst we have the opportunity to reach out to all our parents and carers, we’d like to remind you we are a charitable run nursery. With this being said we would like to ask any parents/carers who are interested in becoming committee members to please speak to a member or staff at drop off/ or pick up or email us. We like to have at least 60% of committee members to be our parents. This isn’t a huge commitment; we just ask you attend a few meetings throughout the year and put forward any ideas or any opinions you have.

To finish our newsletter, we’d like to take the time to recognise and thank the great work Sarah has done, being our secretary over the last several years as she has now stepped down from this position. So, Sarah thank you so much for everything you have done, you will be so very missed, we hope we’ll still see you around.

Parents can keep up to date with what is happening by joining us on Facebook. We have limited spaces still available for after half term please call or email us to check availability: 01473 824271 / playstationhadleigh@gmail.com

To find out more about us, check out our website www.playstationhadleigh.co.uk

COFFEE MORNING

SATURDAY 14TH OCTOBER 2023, 10AM - 11.30AM

Salvation Army Hall, Duke St, Hadleigh

Cakes & Bric-a-brac stall

ALL WELCOME

A new name, with familiar faces, has appeared on Hadleigh Market Place

Over the Summer of 2023 Architecture ONE, relocated their offices at 22 High Street in Hadleigh, due to growing business needs, and to provide additional welcoming space in which to work with their existing, and new prospective clients.

The move presented Founder Jonathon Bensley-Byham a unique opportunity to address a common customer need, architectural design and planning, together with a tried and trusted builder as a single service. An opportunity arose to partner up with a local highly experienced builder who had frequently been involved with Architecture ONE projects and customers, from this ONE Group was formed, opening their new premises in Victoria House.

The co-owners choose this location as it offers such a bright and airy space right in the centre of Hadleigh making it easy for clients to meet with the team to discuss their projects. The offices have presentation facilities, free parking and room for the company’s future growth.

ONE Group incorporates Architecture ONE established 2015, and Construction ONE established 2021. Company Owners Dale Cracknell and Jonathon Bensley Byham, who collectively share 35 years’ experience in the construction and architecture industries have combined and honed their skills by coming together to provide a bespoke one stop turn key service that covers all elements of design, architecture and construction.

Dale Cracknell of Construction ONE adds “this is an exciting time for us, we are delighted to have the combined the services of architecture and construction operate within the same office. ONE Group enables us to provide a seamless approach for our clients need in either architecture or construction or both as a complete service!”

To learn more about ONE Group East and its services, visit www.onegroupeast.co.uk.

BRENT ELEIGH, Nr. LAVENHAM, SUDBURY, SUFFOLK

Delightful Dual Registered Nursing and Residential Home offering care to 34 residents

All rooms are well appointed with en-suite facilities

Nurse Call System: Passenger Lifts: Various Public Rooms: High standard of 24 hour personal care.

Enquiries to: Matron: Mrs Judy Carne RGN, RMA Proprietor: Mrs. E. P. Knight RGN, RM

MEMBER OF THE REGISTERED NURSING HOME ASSOCIATION

St Mary’s C of E Primary School

The Hadleigh Historian

Issue 78 (October-November 2023)

Although I have spent many hours in Hadleigh Archive and Suffolk Archives at Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich, access to websites like Ancestry and British Newspaper Archives broadens the horizons for research into Hadleigh's past.

Rated ‘GOOD’ by Ofsted February 2020 and Early Years was ‘OUTSTANDING’

“The

“Children in the early years get off toa very good start”

“The teaching of reading is of high quality”

“Adults provide strong pastoral support and care”

“Children have many opportunities to develop their interests and enjoy learning in the classroom and outside”

“Children are highly motivated”

“Pupils are supportive of each other and show kindness and respect”

“Pupils are proud of their school”

‘OUTSTANDING’ SIAMS February 2017

'The shed, the suicide and the station house: a story of early policing in Hadleigh' is an example of the use of reports appearing in the local press. Believe it or not, until 1855, prisoners awaiting a hearing at Cosford Petty Sessions - held either at the White Lion or the George in Hadleigh - or awaiting transfer to the Gaol at Bury St Edmunds, were confined in a shed situated behind these two inns. Of course, the magistrates and rate payers complained about the situation. However, nothing was done until the death of a man from Shelley while in police custody. Hadleigh was then given a proper police station in High Street with two purpose-built cells. This building is now Hadleigh Library. The last part of 'Holbecks: its park and its people' has been reached, which relates how the house became the seat of the Rowley baronets. Ever supportive of events in Layham and Hadleigh, the two parishes in which the estate is situated, the park has been the home of Hadleigh Farmers' Agricultural Association's May Show for many years. Local publications ‘Layham War Memorial: the stories behind the names’ (2014) by Mike Woods and ‘John's Jottings: reminiscences of John Bloomfield and his mother Alice’ (2022) by Patricia Bloomfield give further details respectively to the very different lives of Captain Joshua Rowley (died 1917) and the parlour-maid Alice Fairhead appointed in 1923.

In the series 'Special occasions' Hadleigh Amateur and Operatic Dramatic Society is featured performing the farce Rookery Nook. A list of the cast came to light in a local newspaper and with further research, addresses and occupations were discovered. So in 1931, the audience in the Town Hall was watching the manager of Barclays Bank and a sanitary inspector assisting an infant-school teacher to hide from a cycle maker!

How are you getting on with the questions set in 'Binkie Bacon's Quiz of Hadleigh'? This time they are about St Mary's spire and the original market charter with informative answers given by Jane Richardson.

The Hadleigh Historian is on sale price £4 At Avis the Newsagent and Idler Bookshop in Hadleigh High Street and at Hollow Trees Farm Shop in Semer. A one-year subscription (6 issues plus postage) costs £32 from: Sue Andrews, 17 Manor Road, Bildeston, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP7 7BG (01449 740673).

The Hadleigh Society

Emma Boyd, Keeper of Art and Place at Gainsborough House, will be giving a talk: Thomas Gainsborough’s Life and Art, to the Hadleigh Society on 4th October.

Gainsborough, widely regarded to be one of the greatest artists of his era, was born in Sudbury in 1727 and at the age of 13 moved to London to train under the French painter Hubert-Francois Gravelot. After marrying and returning to Sudbury, he moved to Ipswich, then Bath where he attracted a more cosmopolitan and aristocratic clientele, where portraiture was lucrative. However, he loved landscape and often combined the two in a single composition. He painted a dramatic picture of Hadleigh Church c.1750 8pm Wednesday 4th October 2023, Hadleigh Guildroom. Visitors £3, Members free.

Available

“Pupils at St. Mary’s are happy and enjoy going to school. The School is a friendly, welcoming place”

Calling All Pet Owners!!

Turn Your Pet Photo into a Digital Painting… Hand-Painted by PetArt

Martin Bates – Local Digital Artist

Having never been a ‘pet person’, that all changed when my wife insisted on getting two beagles! Once they were home, I was hooked. Watching their behaviour and appreciating their beauty led me to photographing them and painting them. It reignited my passion for watercolours and I found myself painting for friends and family and really enjoying it. Hence www.lovepetart.com was born. Until this point (although I had studied art at college) my main profession was as a web designer, photographer and videographer. PetArt was the perfect way to combine my technical computer skills, photography and my love of art by producing digital art.

Working from a photograph I can paint your pet portrait with true likeness. All digital illustrations are painted using a graphics tablet and Photoshop. My art is what I would describe as ‘watercolour grunge with a modern twist’. Using this media, I’m able to capture the true personality of the pet.

I am pleased to say that all my customers have been really pleased with the results and I invite you to view examples of my work at www.lovepetart.com/petartgallery

I live in Hadleigh, Suffolk where my paintings are created in my studio. Simply email a photo of your pet to info@lovepetart.com and I’ll create the painting. You don’t need to pay anything until you have approved the painting. Cost includes creation of painting, printing and framing. The print is doubled mounted in a classy soft grey frame and will complement any modern or traditional stylings. Frame size is usually 14” x 12” but may vary slightly depending on format of photo.

To make use of the 20% OFF voucher in the advert below simply quote the code when contacting me. Offer ends 31st December 2023. Creation of painting usually takes 4-5 days, but I do get busy in the run up to Christmas so make sure you get your order in early! Unsure of anything? Just email at info@lovepetart.com or ring me on 07976 893278.

Marie Curie Fundraising

Thanks to the generosity of the people of Hadleigh we raised £237.80 in the Co-op and £146.86 in the street on 1st September.

TOOL HIRE

WE NOW OFFER A RANGE OF SMALL TOOLS FOR HIRE

Local delivery and collection service available

Turf Cutters

Rotavators

Stump Grinders

4” Chippers

Petrol Post Hole Borers

Compaction Plates

Concrete poker units

Cement Mixers

Block Splitters

Block Carts

Crowcroft Road Industrial Estate, Nedging Tye, Ipswich IP7 7HR

Tel: 01449 741315

Vacuum Slab Lifters

Generators

Makita Drills & Breakers

Floor Saws & Cutters

Scaffold Towers

Submersible Pumps

Petrol single drum rollers

Hi Tip Tracked Dumpers & Micro Diggers

For more information and a full list of tools please visit our website www.emmittplant.co.uk

Come Along And Get Stuck In!

Giving young saplings a hand to improve their chances of growing into woodland is a great way to spend a Wednesday morning. From October HEAT will be restarting volunteering work on alternate Wednesday mornings with Babergh District Council. Just sign up by emailing hadleighheat@hotmail.com and we will let you know when and where we’re meeting each week.

Previously we have worked on clearing dead and dying trees along the Railway Walk nature reserve to let more light in to allow more wild flowers to grow and hopefully boost butterfly numbers. We have also planted trees on Broom Hill nature reserve. This year we will be exploring other options. One of these might be the planting of ‘Tiny Forests’. These have a range of trees and shrubs densely planted in a small area to rapidly create a thriving biodiversity. On the other Wednesday mornings, volunteering work on nature restoration will be continuing on a local farm. It is very satisfying to give young saplings a helping hand to improve their chances of growing into woodland and to bring ponds back to life, they have been crowded out by dense vegetation. This is all helping to provide for more carbon capture and boosting biodiversity in slowly transforming back to a rural landscape that our forebears would have recognised. Also many thanks to our River Brett volunteers who regularly sample the river in multiple places as part of a citizen science project to monitor the river’s health, sometimes wading in to clear debris and weeds! The bat group volunteers have been out bat scouting working out the best places to put up bat nest boxes, kindly made by Hadleigh Men’s Shed. In these times of information and advice overload, it is very rewarding to participate in volunteering activity where you know that your effort is making a difference. There’s the camaraderie and the very enjoyable tea break where we share news and ideas (and some great treats) and finally, it is widely acknowledged that spending time in nature is good for our mental health. For more information visit our website www.hadleighheat.org or contact hadleigh.heat@hotmail.com.

HEAT are pleased to invite everyone to a talk about WOLVES WOOD by Sharon Sampson, the RSPB Warden, at 7pm on Thursday 26th October in the Leisure Centre. Come and hear about one of the best RSPB reserves in Suffolk.

Hadleigh Old School

Theatre Shows & Art this October

Hadleigh Old School, the arts and entertainment venue, welcomes back both theatre goers and art lovers this month to the venue at 3-5 Bridge Street Hadleigh IP7 6BY.

‘The Hellgate Club’ by Pat Whymark is a gothic murder mystery from Common Ground Theatre Company. Suitable for audiences aged 12 or over - “Enter If You Dare”: Paris, 1905. A series of strange happenings have the authorities baffled. Several men have disappeared under mysterious circumstances, with no connection between them other than that they were last seen in the vicinity of the notorious Pigalle district. With no leads, the police ask retired detective, Jean Tellier to take one last case. Sensing danger around every street corner, in every dimly lit café, in every dark doorway, Tellier begins by interviewing the proprietors and staff of the local bars and nightclubs. Based on a real-life case of the time, Common Ground present a thrilling murder mystery, with live music in the style of the period. The play will be performed on two nights: Friday 13th and Saturday 14th October 7.30pm. Doors open 6.30pm with licensed bar available. Tickets for The Hellgate Club are available from the theatre company website www.commongroundtc.co.uk Box Office 07807 341364

‘How We See It’ is an art exhibition showcasing the work of students who attend Church Walk Studio in Hadleigh. Professional artist and teacher Hazel Bradshaw encourages her students to explore, experiment and enjoy the process rather than focusing on the outcome. There will be a variety of techniques and mediums on show in the gallery at Hadleigh Old School, including work by students and Hazel’s own pieces. Opening evening Friday 20th October from 6.30pm to 9.30pm with a licensed bar and music, exhibition continues Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd October 10.30am to 4.30pm. Free Entry.

‘Dead Man Painting – The Art of Murder’ is a murder mystery written and performed by the Brett Valley Collective (BVC). A group of unlikely characters are invited to a dilapidated mansion in the middle of nowhere for a private viewing of esteemed artist Lucien Masters’ latest work. Some are calling it a renaissance, others are not so impressed. The weather is treacherous, the mood is tense, and the atmosphere strained as they wait for their host to arrive. Why would anyone choose to exhibit in such a remote setting and how do the gathered guests really feel about their host and each other? With the weather rapidly deteriorating, tempers rising, and nerves frayed, the evening takes an unexpected deadly turn, and the police are called to investigate. Join DCI Shoreditch as she unravels the complicated and tempestuous relationships between the suspects, explores the motives behind each of those present, and attempts to uncover what really happened on that fateful night.

The show will be performed on three nights: Thursday 26th, Friday 27th and Saturday 28th October at 7.30pm. Doors open 6.30pm with a licensed bar available. Tickets available from The Little Ginger Bee Co at 99 High Street. Brett Valley Collective are a group of enthusiastic creatives who enjoy writing and performing. Dead Man Painting: The Art of Murder is their third selfpenned play and their first foray into the murder mystery genre. Previous productions Office Clippings and Village Hall Matters were very well-received by audiences!

Each production helps to raise money for a different charity and, this year, BVC are very proud to be supporting Success After Stroke, a local charity offering support, care and advice to stroke survivors and their families.

Happy 70th Birthday Tony Davey

I would like to wish my Husband Tony a very Happy 70th Birthday for the 21st October, he has been enjoying his retirement after a long working life, and some health problems, so now hope that he has time and leisure for many more years to come.

All my love from Maggie, your wife, partner and friend of 50 years (most of them spent in Hadleigh), where we have both loved living and building a life together, from struggling as teenagers, to being comfortable now.

THE HELLGATE CLUB

HOW WE SEE IT

DEAD MAN PAINTING

Brett Valley Collective

26/27/28 October

End of tenancy/deep clean specialists

Please call for a free no obligation quote | Fully insured

Telephone Number: 07938 770844

Email: info@supremesparkle.uk

Hadleigh Old School, 3-5 Bridge Street, Hadleigh, Suffolk IP7 6BY

The Cock Inn

September was the Indian Summer that we all wished for, well at least for some of the month. The nights are now drawing in and the air a little fresher but still plenty of time yet to enjoy the great outdoors. Our garden is still looking good and by the time you read this article you may well have attended ‘Cocktoberfest’, our very first Beer & Cider Festival which unfortunately finishes on the 1st of October. It runs from 29th September so if you are an earlier reader you will just about catch it. There will no doubt be a few ales and ciders available into early October too, so don’t miss your chance to try something different. Its unique as it celebrates and supports Suffolk brewed cask ales. Did you know there are 41 breweries in Suffolk though some are very small indeed. So come along and sample some great ales from the likes of Nethergates, Mr. Bees, Cabin Brewery, Green Acre, Mauldons, Cliff Quay, Earl Soham and off course UK brewing giants Greene King who brew some great local ales too.

Well its World Cup Rugby that’s dominating the sport at the moment. Its early days as I write here but the home nations are doing well. England have won two along with Wales and Ireland. The Scots had to play South Africa in their pool game and unfortunately lost in a close encounter. Saturday 14th October sees the competition move to the Quarter Finals. Scotland have the toughest route to reaching this round as they are pooled with both South Africa and Ireland, with only two teams in each pool progressing. Looks like New Zealand and France will reach the Quarters as well as England, who may be joined by anyone in their pool bar Chile. Wales have seen their fortunes turn which is not unusual in the World Cup and Warren Gatland is a very experienced coach. Its going to be a great tournament with a number of teams with the ability to win it. My money is on France as they have the home advantage but Ireland and South Africa are in with a shout and potential finalists.

For the footy fans the Premiership is really heating up early. City are looking like Champions though Arsenal are serious. Liverpool too but Brighton are the new kids on the block. Some great fixtures in October with Man City v Arsenal being perhaps the jewel. Great performance too by the local team Ipswich Town who have had a great start to their Championship season. As I write they are joint second with Leicester City. Local rivals are close behind in third spot so it looks like it’s going to be an interesting year. Our England Lionesses lost the World Cup Final to Spain but what a great game. Spain had that little more class and on another day we could have prevailed. Needless to say the event has been somewhat overshadowed by the Spanish Football Presidents after match kiss, which has unfortunately spoiled the Latino celebrations somewhat. A wonderful tournament doing a great deal for women’s football on a global scale.

Speedsters have three F1 Grand Prix to look forward too with races in Qatar, the USA and Mexico during October. Please check local press for start times. I am amazed how many people are watching F1 and audiences are growing here in the UK. You can catch the end of the Ryder Cup Golf too as it comes to its conclusion on 1st October.

Even though we have a packed sports calendar this month we still have a great line up of live music for you to enjoy. The Pangs will make their debut on Friday 6th October with a 8.45pm start. This is a local band consisting of Andy Pipe, Phil Wolfe Flanagan, Nick Ainsley and Graham Garnham who play ‘original material’. On Sunday 8th we welcome back Words & Music playing great tunes from the Beatles and more from 3pm. Five piece ‘Band of Mold’ are with us on Saturday 14th. These guys are super and play Rock n Roll & Blues from the 1950s through to the 1970s. Don’t miss this one and again an 8.45pm start. Sunday 22nd October sees the return of Buzz at 3pm, an exciting and energetic four-piece band playing great tunes from days gone by. The talented Rob Lewis ends the month of music on Sunday 29th. Starting at 3pm Rob, musician and songwriter will entertain us again. A repertoire too large to list so just come along and see for yourself.

Congratulations to our three dart teams here at The Cock Inn. The Kraken won the Hadleigh Dixon Dart Summer League. The George were able runners up and Dawsey’s Jets were third. Well done to The Cock Rebels too for a solid 5th place. The new 2023 Winter League will commence on 9th October and we wish all nine teams good luck.

Remember folks we open at 11am nowadays on weekends and our ‘Early Bird’ drinks offers run weekdays 12 noon to 2pm and 5-7pm. We also have a super ‘Double Up’ promotion on a range of your favourite branded spirits which allows you to make it a double for only £1.50 extra, all day every day. Mark and his happy team look forward to seeing you soon’.

The Cock Inn, 89 George Street, Hadleigh Tel 01473 941049

Can you spare an hour or two a month?

We are looking for a reasonably fit person who can help us put the tables away in the Ansell Centre after our lunch clubs which take place on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.

If you think you might be able to help us, please ring Jan on 01473 823413 or email janetmdicks@gmail.com

The Cock Inn

Traditionally

Hadleigh’s largest selection of of Cask Ales, Gin, Vodka, Whiskies and Wines!

Live Sport in october

World Cup Rugby

7th England v Samoa 4.45pm & Ireland v Scotland 8pm

Qtr Finals 14th & 15th

Semi Finals 20TH & 21ST

Final Sat 28th 8pm

International Football

13th England v Australia 7.45pm

17th England v Italy 7.45pm

F1 Grand Prix

8th Qatar / 22nd USA / 29th Mexico

All PL & TNT (BT Sports) games shown live

We can show 3 events live at the same time. Giant Screen Action too.

october WHATS ON

Sept 29th - Oct 1st

Cock Inn Suffolk Ale Beer Festival

Live Music

Fri 6th The Pangs 8.45pm

Sun 8th Words & Music 3pm

Sat 14th Band of Mold 8.45pm

Sun 22nd Buzz 3pm

Sun 29th Rob Lewis 3pm

Events

Tues 3rd Buskers 8pm

Tues 10th Quiz Night 8pm

Tues 17th Open Mic 8pm

Novice darts every Wed 8pm all welcome

EARLY BIRD SAVINGS

BETWEEN 12 NOON-2pm& 5-7pmMON-FRI

Carlsberg £3.70

Victoria £3.50

• Guinness £4.70

• San Miguel £4.60

• Peroni £4.70 • Abbot £3.80

• House Red & White Wine £3.80 175ml

Double up on selected spirits only £1.50 extra. All day every day!

941049 www.thecockinnhadleigh.co.uk

ZOR Boutique ATKERSEYMILL

Get ready for Autumn at ZOR

We had a great time at Autumn fair held at the NEC in Birmingham. It’s a great way to see suppliers and order some gorgeous goodies, and that’s exactly what we did.

I was super exited to unpack our new sterling silver semi-precious stone necklaces, which we ordered at Autumn fair, that way we got to hand pic every item making sure we choose individual unique pieces. My favourite is the Oyster Mohave Turquoise oval drop as this is a real standout stone that you won’t see again.

New to Zor Boutique are the Alice Collins gilets. These are available in sand, black and navy and feature a hood and pockets in a longline length finished with zip and snapper closure. These are perfect for cooler days as you can really layer up underneath. Now the weather has cooled down we have seen a huge demand for our super soft jumpers. One of our best selling slouchy oversized crew necks is back in stock. This is always a popular style as it can be worn over virtually anything. On warmer days they look great over a dress and on those extra cold days a thick jumper can be worn underneath.

We have noticed many customers coming in to buy Christmas presents already. As usual we have a fabulous range of gifts including scarves, jewellery, gloves, slippers, socks and much more. We managed to find some great lines at Autumn fair so be sure to see some bestsellers back as well as some fantastic new styles all priced under £20.

www.zoronline.com zoronline.sales@gmail.com

Kersey Mill, Stone Street IP7 6DP 07969 525859

Open Mon-Sat 10am to 4.00pm

Stunning jewellery, scarves, bags, purses & clothing.

All at affordable prices.

07969 525859

www.zoronline.com

The Ensors: Master and matron of Cosford Union Workhouse at Semer by Sue Andrews

The Ensors: master and matron of Cosford Union Workhouse at Semer

by Sue Andrews

Is your idea of Victorian workhouses derived from depictions by Charles Dickens? Then think again.

John and Sarah did their best to make the lives of paupers in their care as pleasant as possible including arranging entertainments and excursions. Under John’s guidance, Semer became the workhouse where inmates developed horticultural skills that won prizes at Crystal Palace, London and all over East Anglia. On sale price £5 at Avis the Newsagents and Idler Bookshop in Hadleigh and at Hollow Trees Farm Shop in Semer.

WOMEN’S HEALTH & WELLNESS EVENT

Saturday 18th November, 2-8pm at Lavenham Village Hall

Knowledge of workhouses is influenced by Victorian author Charles Dickens with masters depicted as tyrannical figures in films such as Oliver. However, for 36 years, John Lott Ensor (1816-1890) was master of Cosford Union Workhouse at Semer, governing his charges from the surrounding 38 parishes with understanding and an eye to their future. Not only were seaside excursions and visits to local estates arranged but also in-house theatrical entertainments and magic-lantern shows were held.

Born at Elmsett, John spent his childhood in Hadleigh and as a young man had been an Ipswich solicitor and land agent with a career in local politics. In 1849, he married Sarah Colman of Bildeston. In 1854, they moved into the master’s quarters at Semer with three youngsters and went on to have three more.

John had a great interest in horticulture. On the workhouse site, on what is now called Union Hill, he turned ten acres (4.04 hectares) to ‘spade husbandry’. For their vegetable growing, the inmates won awards at London’s Crystal Palace, at agricultural shows throughout East Anglia and locally at Hadleigh and Bildeston. In 1886, he persuaded the workhouse guardians to throw open the premises to the public for one weekend when a horticultural show entitled ‘It is Perfection’ was staged that included music and refreshments. This was John’s way of showing that oakum picking, the tedious occupation of workhouse inmates across the country, was not the only way of occupying members of society unfortunate enough to find themselves having to seek support in such institutions.

A4 paperback: 24 pages, 9 illustrations, staff list, map and family tree. Also on sale price £5 plus £2 postage from S Andrews, 17 Manor Road, Bildeston, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP7 7BG

Tickets now available: https://rb.gy/lxj5t

Stylemagiks and The Style Tribes

On one of the hottest days of the year we held a fashion show in the URC church with the Hadleigh Community Choir providing the music. The fashion show was to raise money to go towards the outreach and upkeep of the Hadleigh Community Choir. We are delighted to announce over £500 was raised.

From the start of the morning, we had make-up sliding off and hair styles which went limp, pins fell out and everything was sauna hot in the small community room, our dressing room. Heavy hold hairspray had to come into play and double pins were used in the hair creations. Our make-up artists Izzy and Shannon did many touch ups as the temperature kept rising. A visit was made to Boots for mousse and hairspray which kept Jeanettes hair creations from collapsing.

The back room was a welter of clothing accessories and shoes. Models giggled and chatted then popped outside for a breath of fresh air. Deep breaths were taken, and fresh shirts and three-piece suits went on along with long dresses and fur jackets. That was just the start of the afternoon.

Jill kept us all on time keeping one eye on the clock and one ear on the music and the other senses locating AWOL models. The shout went out “you’re on now”. Somehow, we managed all the right timings and got on and off stage without any mishaps. The dressers remained calm and collected as they helped each model change outfits. Challenges arrived with tight leggings and tights plus coats and heavy jackets as the temperature hit 32. The models kept smiling and sauntered onto the catwalk as if they hadn’t a care in the world.

The Choir delivered the songs and smiled through all the heat. Simon conducted and kept his cool as the temperature rose in the church. John and I paced and listened for our cues ad-libbed on stage and winged bits that went a little awry. We both walk as we talk which was not possible as we both used the stand mics, so every now and again we would move away from the mic and realise the audience could not hear us and would have to hastily move back.

The finale approached the music cascaded forth, in the back room heavy chains and collars denim and leather went on. Heavy jewellery and spiked collars, braces and tattoos adorned our models. One model was cooler as the kilt was in play a swirl of the skirt and a whoosh of cool air. Wigs went on, heads got hotter. The models gave it their all, the attitude rocked the catwalk, fists were raised and the odd boot was thrust skyward. This was after all Punk Rock and had to have big attitude. Greeted with cheers and applause from the audience the finale was complete. They all made it through five changes and very hot conditions, and I think they earnt a cold shower at the end of the day. So, to the models each one of you Charlotte Beata, Julia, Katrina, Elizabeth, Tanisha, Colin, Matthew and John also Sarah who could not be with us. Thank you for all the laughter not one complaint and for looking awesome on stage.

Thanks also to Tony who took some photos and to my main photographer Amelia Sadd whose photos you see accompanying this article. By Liz Wilson.

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Above the Parapet

Cllr Mick Fraser - Suffolk County Council

Report

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service - On 10th August 2023 I had the privilege of visiting Suffolk Fire & Rescue Service’s station in Hadleigh, hosted by Watch Manager (WM) Matt Barber. It was enlightening to see how Suffolk’s SFRS recruit, train, and deploy the oncall volunteers who provide this essential emergency service for us. The team demonstrated the use of their rescue equipment, including the most current cutting tools available, essential for RTA rescue, although loaded on the rather dated tender which needs updating. The highlight of the evening was their practice drill demonstration.

Matt explained how the firefighter personnel log on to the IT availability roster and how this countywide system is managed to allocate appropriate responses to emergencies. It was rewarding to discuss with the team the challenges they face, such as last year’s spate of field fires and how they negotiate our many narrow roads restricted with on-street parked cars.

One item of associated news is that SFRS will be withdrawing from the shared control room arrangement in place since 2011 with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, based in Huntingdon. Suffolk’s fire control would now be brought back into the county by the end of 2024. In much of Suffolk, we depend upon ‘on call’ firefighters to keep us safe. The crew at Hadleigh Fire Station are typical of our rural capability – working day jobs, but ready at all times to answer the call by remaining within 5minutes journey time to the station. If you are interested in getting involved, the please visit the SCC website for more informationhttps://suffolk-firefighters.co.uk

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Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) - Hadleigh High School - Hadleigh High is one of the many schools across Suffolk to be impacted by the Department for Education (DfE) decision not to allow children to enter buildings constructed from RAAC. Of the 38 classrooms previously available, 17 (approximately 45%) now cannot be used. The Penrose Learning Trust with support from SCC, have worked hard to obtain the necessary temporary mobile classroom units to be installed on site as soon as possible. The trust is the most seriously effected in England which the DfE is supporting; their other schools include East Bergholt HS. The council has received assurances from the DfE that the additional costs incurred at Hadleigh High School will be covered by them from government funds.

Councillor Surgery - I endeavour to hold my surgery on the third Saturday of the month with the next one at 11:00 on Saturday 21st October 2023 in the anti-room of the Royal British Legion Club, George Street. Should you need to speak to me concerning an issue that affects you, then please contact me at - mick.fraser@suffolk.gov.uk; Tel: 0793 551 2591; or Facebook: @mickfraser4hadleigh, Twitter: @mick_fraser. Highways faults especially vegetation overgrowth and weeds, can be reported at: https://highwaysreporting.suffolk.gov.uk/ or by telephone: 0345 606 6171.

WED 11th October 2023 8pm Price £18

The Andrew Cleyndert Quartet

WED 25th October 2023 8pm Price £18

Josh Kemp Quartet present “John Coltrane: A Love Supreme”

“Eclectricity”

Mayor’s monthly

After I last wrote to you in the previous edition of the Community News I visited our very own fire station, just to sit and chat and have a cuppa. The day in question just happened to be a recruitment drive. At the time of my visit our firefighters were hoping to recruit two more Hadleigh residents to be part of the team. The crew down at the fire station are fiercely proud of their town and are willing to go the extra length to keep it safe. There are only ten firefighters at the moment who, at the drop of a hat, rush to the aid of anyone in distress and just such a call came in while I was there; they were called to a fire in a neighbouring village, cutting short their recruitment drive. I watched them with no small amount of pride as they sped off on the ‘blues and twos’, to someone in distress not knowing how fierce the fire would be or how long they would be there, all they knew was that a call for help came in and they were going out, no matter what.

Our station is a retained fire station, meaning that all of the crew are volunteers and work elsewhere in Hadleigh but answer the call for help no matter what time of the day it is. They are highly trained and between them have a wealth of experience in all sorts of emergencies and how to deal with them, and this experience they are more than willing to share with anyone who would like to join their ranks. I talk fondly of these guys as I was one of their ranks previously, but based in London and have since retired to Hadleigh. However my heart swells when I see them go about their business, as should yours. I also attended Wattisham Airbase on Families Day, where everyone was treated to an airshow headed by the Red Arrows followed by displays from various vintage aircraft and the Red Devils Parachute Team, there was also a display of military motor vehicle from the ages, as well as vintage civilian emergency vehicle. Whilst there I made my way to the SSAFA area (Solder, Sailor and Airman’s Families Association) and I am glad to say that they were well supported with volunteers, whom I am led to believe raised a good amount for the charity, a big well done to Cpt Louise Davis-Smith and all of her volunteers. To all of you guys down at Wattisham, a fantastic day was had by one and all, well done.

Don’t forget to put 2nd December on the calendar as its Hadleigh’s Christmas Market and Light Switch On Event. I really enjoyed last year’s event, but it was unlike me to be late to the burger stall, which meant that alas they were all sold out. Note to self, try better this year!

visitingfootpractitioners

Hadleigh Community Forum - 38

Tuesday 12 September 2023

1 WELCOME: The Chair welcomed everyone

2 REPORT OF THE LAST MEETING: Accepted

3 MATTERS ARISING: There were no matters arising

4 Standard Updates

4.1 HADLEIGH TOWN COUNCIL (HTC) The Neighbourhood Plan is progressing and it is hoped it will go to public consultation very soon. Planning application for the pavilion at Layham Road sports ground is now live on Babergh’s website for comments.

The Youth Festival, run by the Youth Council at Layham Road, was a success and it is hoped to be an annual event.

Following installation of poles, Speed Indication Devices will be placed on Station Rd, Gallows Hill and Coram Street. HTC has formed a Safer Community Working Group which will gather information and evidence for safer traffic measures and enforcement (parking and speeding). Speed Watch will start again in Hadleigh.

£18,600 left in the Grants pot for charities and community organisations to apply for funding.

Tours are starting again in the Guildhall: Mon 9 Oct, 11am and 2pm. £5 inc tea/coffee and cake. Book in person at HTC offices, or email info@hadleightownhall.co.uk or call 01473 822 544. Funds are being raised for the Hadleigh Market Feoffment Charity.

4.2 BABERGH & MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCIL (BDC) The Tour of Britain, Stage 5 & Sprint – was a huge success and national TV coverage for Hadleigh was magnificent. Thanks to Angela Wiltshire for untiring effort to ensure the High Street was bedecked with bunting.

Following Kathryn Grandon’s enquiry about non-availability of some medicines, James Cartlidge has received a letter from the Minister of State explaining in broad terms many reasons for this: it was a disappointing response.

A questionnaire is being drawn up to elicit comments for the last 6-12 months concerning matters such as, inter alia, speed & traffic concerns and anti-social behaviour. BDC takes these matters seriously and will be working with HTC and Inspire to progress intelligence and build upon the information already held. Posters with large eyes on have proved effective and will be used. The questionnaire will also cover positive matters.

4.3 VISIT HADLEIGH The Dance Historia and Costume & Originals exhibition, as part of the National Heritage festival, joined with the opening of the Guildhall Garden and had a very successful day. As a wool town we are part of Visit East of England (VEE) under its new structure of accredited tourism organisations, we will bid for public sector funding. Jane Snowdon will attend the VEE Conference in Norwich on 25 October.

The Visit Hadleigh website has enjoyed increased traffic. The YouTube videos encouraged the BBC to contact Stuart Service to be involved in showcasing Hadleigh in a future edition of Escape to the Country – due to be aired in a few months. The Blue Plaque scheme is now under the auspices of Historic England and applications can be made through their website. Help is still needed for maintaining and developing the community gardens –Wednesdays 10am-noon.

4.4 HADLEIGH & BOXFORD PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP (PPG) A report was given to the meeting and can be found in the PPG column in each month’s Hadleigh Community News.

4.5 ST MARYS CHURCH Refurbishment of the Vestry started early, on 31 August, and is expected to finish in November. The floor has already been dug out to a depth of 500ml, removing some 20 tons of material. Metal detecting has unearthed (among many other things) a coin from 1344 (Edward III). A few random bones have also been uncovered, but sadly no King Guthrum! The base of the corner columns mirror those in the Porch and all the wall panelling has been removed for renovation. The chandeliers remain the preferred method of heat/light and discussions are underway with UK Power Networks. We need to connect with cabling at the end of Queen Street and providing the required trench is our responsibility. With the current power there is sufficient for only four of the chandeliers.

Ride and Stride was a success with James Cartlidge supporting us. Church was open all day and well attended.

Delighted that we have been able to appoint a new Administrator and welcome Emma Fleming-Ovens into the role. Grateful thanks were offered to Claire Woods who managed the job so ably for twelve years and wish her all the best as she takes up her new role at the Royal Hospital School.

Sat 7 October is the John Bloomfield Memorial Lecture in St Mary’s: this year with talks by two professionals who have been working on the church – David Adamson, Stonemason and Michael Anderson, Lead worker. 9.30am for a 10am start. Tickets £10 on the door or from the Church office in the Deanery Tower.

Sat 21 October 7pm for 7.30pm with a welcome drink. Last Night of the Proms concert in St Mary’s with the Hadleigh Orchestra. Tickets £15 from Avis, The Little Ginger Bee in the High Street or Jim Wilding.

4.6 HEAT (Hadleigh Environmental Action Team) There will be a meeting about Wolves Wood at 7pm in the Leisure Centre on 26 October. The Bat Group will be producing a report within the next month or so and seven

species of bat have been discovered in Hadleigh. The first Climate Café is planned for 26 October. Planning is still underway for the Net Zero campaign and a meeting is being arranged with the Manningtree group.

4.7 COST OF LIVING CONCERNS Following the summer holidays, Pop-Up events at St Mary’s are on every second and fourth Wednesday from 2pm –5.30pm offering free food and drink and activities for all ages.

4.8 BENTON END 82 visitors enjoyed House tours with Adnams wines on the terrace, on 19/20 August. The new garden trainee, funded by the National Gardens Trust, is working two days a week for the next year. Benton End is hoping to enlist the help of a small team of HEAT volunteers on a fortnightly basis. This will not be for gardening but for gardening clearance, digging out nettles, moving fallen branches etc. The gardens are already starting to open up and a considerable amount of tree surgery has taken place (all permissions being in place !). A fund-raising supper event in the autumn is being planned with local caterers and open to all. Although the evening will be in the spirit of Cedric & Lett, we believe that apparently using old underpants as dishcloths, will not happen in today’s Benton End !!

5 ACL’s SOCIAL IMPACT Tracey Loynds was not present so the video will hopefully be shown at a future meeting.

6 A O B Hadleigh Old School has three events coming up:

Fri 13 & Sat 14 Oct at 7.30pm - licensed bar from 6.30pm – “The Hellgate Club”. A gothic murder mystery by the Common Ground Theatre Company based on a real-life case of the time, with live music. Tickets: www.commongroundtc.co.uk

Fri 20 to Sunday 22 Oct. Friday 6.30pm – 9.30pm with licensed bar and music. Sat & Sun 10.30am – 4.30pm – “How We See It”. An exhibition showcasing the work of students who attend Hazel Bradshaw’s Studios in Church Walk, Hadleigh. Free entry.

Thurs 26 – Sat 28 Oct at 7.30 – licensed bar from 6.30pm – “Dead Man

Painting – The Art of Murder” written and performed by the Brett Valley Collective. Each production will support Success After Stroke. Tickets from The Little Ginger Bee in the High Street

Having recently visited, Mike Turley encouraged all visit to the Ipswich Transport Museum in Ipswich.

Claire Coster offered grateful thanks to Liz Wilson of Stylemagiks and Simon Thompson of the Hadleigh Community Choir who put on a fabulous themed fashion show with relevant music from the choir at the URC on 9 Sept. Rebecca Hodnett from the Porch Project asked for volunteers to help with the young people and their activities.

Jan Devey raised the question of having a zebra crossing from the High Street car park across to Boots. She was asked to raise this with Highways via Mick Fraser the SCC Councillor. HTC will help with this. It is also hoped to get the Toppesfield Car park entry area resurfaced.

The meeting closed at 5.39

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 10 October 2023 @ 4:15pm. Hadleigh Pool and Leisure. Chair: Wendy Brame

As The Nights Draw In, A New Programme Rolls Out Offering Culture, Coffee & Friends

Enliven your Autumn by Giving Us a Go! The Arts Society Stour Valley offers a series of illustrated monthly talks, visits, special interest days + an arts magazine - all at a very reasonable cost.

On the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 11am at the Village Hall, Long Melford CO10 9QJ (opp The Bull Hotel). For further details Contact: info@TASstourvalley.org.uk quoting CN 28 or via our website www.TASstourvalley.org.uk

WEDNESDAY 18 OCTOBER - THE HISTORY OF AUCTIONS: From the Roman Period to the present day. The Inside story of why the world’s most expensive paintings sell for such staggering sums.

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Walk In Family Salon

‘Shedders’ help build

The Great Wall of China

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For Rosie Slais (photo right) returning to her pre-Covid social activities was important. After months of managing with Facetime or telephone calls the prospect of getting back to her face-to-face weekly Mahjong sessions was even more inviting. In the meantime, her family had bought her a beautiful set, so she was ready to go - well not quite. This mysterious far eastern game involves building the Great Wall of China. The four-sided Wall needs solid stands to support the tiles during its construction. Unfortunately, Rosie’s stands were not quite up to the job. The recently formed, Hadleigh Men’s Shed group accepted the challenge to create some tailor-made stands. Following careful line drawings and precise measurement the team made four solid but not heavy, attractive wooden stands. Not being an everyday assignment for the ‘shedders,’ it was a learning curve for everyone involved. Rosie was happy to pay for the materials used. She and her three co-players are delighted with the most professional results and glad to return to their sociable weekly Mahjong session.

Polstead Gardening Club

Our Autumn season of meetings is starting soon with some very interesting speakers:

Tuesday 26th September at 7.30pm: Creating a Nature Space & Building a Nature Network with Lisa Matthews, Nature Citizen, Polstead

Tuesday 31st October at 7.30pm: The Secret Gardens of East Anglia with author Barbara Segall

Tuesday 21st November at 7.30 pm: The Butterfly Garden and Changing Environment with Dr Ian Bedford

We look forward to hopefully seeing you. All meetings will be at Polstead Village Hall on The Green in Polstead (CO6 5AL). Free to members. Nonmembers are welcome £5 (cash or cheque please). Entrance includes a drink and nibbles. Queries to gardeningclubpolstead@yahoo.com

sparklers allowed NO PARKING AT THE GROUND Fund raising event for Hadleigh United Football Club

Hadleigh’s Green River

Cllr. Kathryn Grandon, Babergh District Councillor for Hadleigh South Many decisions which affect the daily lives of residents are debated and agreed at various Babergh District Council committee meetings. In September, our Overview and Scrutiny Committee looked at “Water Quality - Rivers and Sewage Discharge”, an important matter for Hadleigh and the district.

By way of background, the Overview and Scrutiny Committee is an important part of a council where there is a Cabinet system in place as it is intended to hold the Babergh Cabinet to account by scrutinising some of its decisions and looks at whether council departments operate efficiently. Another objective of the O&S Committee is to examine whether organisations which serve the residents of our district, do so effectively. The Committee can invite external organisations to its meetings to question how they operate and ensure that they best serve our residents. I am a member of the Planning Committee and the Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Anglian Water, the Environment Agency and Natural England gave a presentation to the Overview and Scrutiny committee explaining how they were working to improve the quality of our waterways and members of the committee were able to ask questions.

I took the opportunity to ask about the water quality of Hadleigh’s River Brett - I think we all get concerned when each year we see the river covered in a ‘blanket’ of green.

Here is my question and reply:

Q: In Hadleigh, every year we have greenery covering the whole of the river and it seems to me that we have less wildlife in and around the river. Can you comment on this?

Environment Agency: The greenery in the waters in Hadleigh is lemna, otherwise known as duckweed. This has been increasing in recent years due to hot, dry summers as we’ve had abnormally little rainfall for the last three years or so. The growth is also driven by slower flows of water in the river due to these conditions. In instances of extreme growth, where the plants are taking in too much oxygen and affecting fish and wildlife in the river, the Environment Agency can use an aerator to add oxygen into the water supply and reduce growth.

Anglian Water: Higher phosphorous levels encourage more plant growth in rivers. One of the schemes that we are delivering is the phosphorous scheme at Hadleigh Water Recycling Centre, where we are tightening the discharge to 1 milligram per litre. This is to improve the ecological status of the watercourse.

If you would like to read a summary of the full meeting, please look up the minutes of the meeting (date 18th September 2023), on the Babergh District Council website.

Hadleigh and District Garden Club

In September our members visited Benton End Flower Farm enjoying a very warm afternoon looking around the field planted with all types of flowers and foliage plants. Members were able to pick and purchase flowers to take home. They can be seen listening to a talk given to explain the future plans for Benton End Flower Farm.

At the September meeting a talk was given by Lucy Skellorn the great, great grand-daughter of Sir Michael Foster. His hobby collecting and breading irises, gathered all over the world, paved the way for breeders such as Dykes, Bliss and Hadleigh’s well known Cedric Morris. Lucy is a member of Plant Heritage and was very knowledgeable on how to look after irises as she runs Foster Irises giving talks to all types of groups. Members were able to purchase new rhizomes for their own gardens and learn how to grow them successfully and propagate new plants. The October meeting will be a talk on “A complete guide to Clematis” by Peter Skeggs-Gooch of Thorncroft Clematis who recently has shown at Chelsea. The competition is three eating or cooking apples on a plate. Our usual raffle with several prizes will take place and time to light refreshments at the end. Members £2 Non-members £4. 9th October at 7.30 in the Guild Room opposite St. Mary’s Church.

Hadleigh Market on Friday 13th October

Great selection of books and authors to browse All proceeds to WvC and St. Elizabeth Hospice

Franklyn Nevard Associates

Architecture and Interior Design

Thurland, Sulleys Hill, Lower Raydon, Ipswich, Suffolk IP7 5QQ

Turning Peoples Lives Around

When the members at Hadleigh Men’s Shed got together to design their first logo they wanted it to offer an insight into what the shed is all about, so they included some special features. Prominent on the logo are some woodworking tools which are a nod to the activities that are carried out.

The shed is very well equipped and has some great woodworking machine tools and training is available. One of the most popular machine tools in the shed is our wood turning lathe, which at first glance looks quite daunting. But with some expert guidance and training from one of our experienced turners, you can quickly turn a block of wood into a beautiful object. Wood turning is extremely satisfying. It is a real hands on activity and it allows you to connect with your creative and artistic side. Also in the logo is the hand shake over a cuppa. This sits in the heart of the logo because this is at the very core of what the shed is all about. Getting together to create stuff in the workshop is all great fun, but what is really important is that we do it in a spirit of friendship and camaraderie. If you fancy trying your hand at wood turning or just want to join us for a brew and a chat then you would be most welcome. We are open four times a week, two day time sessions and two evening sessions. For more info please email us at hadleighmensshed@gmail.com or find us on Facebook. A warm welcome awaits.

Hadleigh Naturalists Society

Contact Franklyn

Mobile: 07515 351 894

Email: franklyn@franklynnevard.co.uk

Web: www.franklynnevard.co.uk

ESTABLISHED IN 1982

Winter Programme 2023

Monday 2nd October - 7.30pm: Cosford - from small farm to reserve (Adam Gretton).

Monday 6th November - 7.30pm: History of the River Gipping (Gerry Crease)

Monday 4th December - 7.30pm: Minsmere at 75 (Steve Everett)

Town Hall Dining Room (opposite Churchyard). Visitors £3.

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Hadleigh and Boxford Patient Participation Group (PPG)

The increase in cases of the latest strain of Covid is concerning. For this reason the Practice has been asked to vaccinate all 65 plussers and clinically vulnerable against Covid and ‘flu before the end of October 2023. Residents in all Hadleigh’s care home have already been attended to. The rest of the eligible patients are being invited to come to a clinic on 7th and 21st October from 8am to 12.30pm. Patients’ appointments to attend are being sent via letter or text. There will be no walk ins unless you have been asked to do so by your GP.

As on previous occasions, members of the PPG and others have agreed to continue volunteering in the car parks and inside the Practice when the clinics are in progress. As ever volunteers have stepped up to the plate immediately and generously offered their time enabling the Practice to focus on the medical and admin aspects of the exercise. Receptionists and the Practice Dispensary will not be open while the clinics are in progress.

I understand that, from next year, you will be able to buy Covid vacs if you are outside the NHS cohorts.

Last week the Practice received a visit from the Healthwatch Team. Their function is to collect feedback from patients in the waiting room and give their findings to the Practice personnel. I’m delighted to say their overall report was highly favourable with patients describing the surgery as ‘excellent and brilliant’. There were some shortcomings which the Practice hopes to address but car park issues and pure demand are more problematic. If you wish to have your say, their survey is online together with some of the patients’ previous comments. See link below.

A new art exhibition is in place in the Waiting Room. Work is by Jenne Foulger. Please make an effort to view her unusual, delightful work and remember you don’t have to be sick to take a look. Jenne’s work can be bought for a very reasonable sum. 10% of proceeds to the Practice’s Charitable Trust.

Do you know if you are eligible for help with the cost of NHS prescriptions, NHS dental treatment, eyecare, travel to receive NHS treatment and NHS wigs and fabric supports? Find out if you’re eligible using the free eligibility checker link below.

PPG Chair: Jan Devey 01473 827 091

Email: deveys@btinternet.com Website: www.hadleighhealth.co.uk

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Hadleigh-Boxford-Group-Practice102959274690621/

NHS App: www.hadleighhealth.co.uk/the-nhs-app

Healthwatch: https://healthwatchsuffolk.co.uk/services/hadleighboxford-group-practice-hadleigh-1

NHS Help: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/check

Leavenheath Village Hall Cinema

JOYRIDE - Saturday 7th October. Arrive 7.00pm, Film starts 7.30pm. A coming of age drama (PG-13) starring Olivia Coleman, Charlie Reid & Lochlann Ó Mearain. 1hr 34 mins with 20 mins interval.

Please book early to avoid being disappointed. Tickets £4.00 per adult and £2.50 for under 12s, cash or card on the door. Reserve your seat online at www.leavenheath.org.uk or phone Marion on 01206 263301 to book your tickets. Refreshments, wine, beer, soft drinks, coffee, tea will be available before the film and also available during the interval along with ice creams.

Proceeds towards LVH Capital Project Fund (Charity no 262816)

The Royal Bri sh Legion is a family friendly club offering:• Snooker

Live Music • Raffle Hall Hire upon request (free for members, £70 for non-members)

Please keep a look out on our Facebook page and no ce board for informa on on upcoming entertainment.

All are welcome to use and join the club. We support the Local Branch and Poppy Appeal. For more details you can find us on Facebook

Email: rblchadleigh@gmail.com or call 01473 824874

Independent Family Funeral Directors and Monumental Masons

R. Gwinnell & Sons pride themselves on offering a full and personal funeral service tailored to you or your family’s wishes, bespoke funeral plans and memorials suitable for any location and we never take commission from florists, probate companies, printers or caterers. We are pleased to offer free information and advice, without obligation.

32 HIGH STREET, HADLEIGH01473 824440

112 IPSWICH ROAD, COLCHESTER01206 868585

Parish Council

The main matters discussed at the Parish Council meeting of 29 August 2023 were:

•New councillors The Parish Council was pleased to welcome new co-opted councillors Gillie Cranfield and Julie Thickpenny

•Public Forum Mark Westwood, Hunt Master, gave the hunt’s view on the recent incident involving the hounds and a parishioner’s dog. He said he had been involved with the hunt for 26 years and this was the first time an incident involving a domestic animal had occurred. Statements had been given to the police by both parties. In response to a comment that exercising hounds on public roads was illegal, Mark said this applied only to specific roads, none in Layham. In addition, ‘sporting’ dogs were exempt. This incident was also discussed in the meeting proper; it was agreed to take no further action at the moment, pending the outcome of the police investigation.

•District Council There had been a review of the election processes, which had been hampered by a software bug and admin problems; however, an external report had confirmed that the elections were safely and securely delivered. Babergh was now able to offer a hybrid meeting facility for some planning committee meetings held in the Council Chamber, so that members of the public could attend remotely. Councillors were pleased to note the Money Saving Central initiative enabling children to eat free during the summer holidays.

•Speeding Suffolk Highways had confirmed that a representative would attend the October PC meeting.

•Community Speed Watch It was agreed that, before making a decision on whether to proceed, the Clerk would send a community email to see whether at least six parishioners would volunteer to participate.

•Refurbishment of telephone boxes The Clerk had sent a community email inviting quotes; to date no responses had been received.

•Neighbourhood Plan Cllr Ward said the government was currently looking at changing the system and introducing Neighbourhood Priority Statements, although nothing had been finalised yet. It was agreed to take no action at the moment and await further information.

•Autumn tidy-up This would take place on Saturday 14 October from 10am – 12 noon.

“Autumn Tidy Up” on Saturday 14th October 10am. We know that many of you actively take a pride in our village and will join us for our annual Autumn Tidy. Possible jobs identified so far include collecting the litter left in lay-bys on the Gravel Pit Road and cutting back brambles etc encroaching the lanes. Please let us know of any other jobs we could do. We provide litter pickers, reflective jackets and refuse bags; you will need to bring your own protective gloves and any garden tools. We’ll meet at 10am on Saturday 14th October on the playing field in Upper Layham or opposite the Queen’s Head in Lower Layham. Hope to see you then! Thank you.

Sheila Roberts (01473 827270) sheilarobertslayham@hotmail.com

Fruit and Vegetables After last year’s dry summer and poor crops of fruit and vegetables this year is turning out to be a bumper harvest. Gardeners are always generous with their produce and many of us have benefitted from their generosity. The writer and his family have enjoyed gifts of organic beans, courgettes, cucumbers, spinach, tomatoes, redcurrants, apples and plums. We were on our daily walk recently when Nigel Thorpe offered us a couple of cucumbers from a greenhouse containing just one cucumber plant. Apparently we were given cucumbers 95 and 96! The plant will have produced at least 100 cucumbers by the time you read this.

Social Club We had a very inspirational talk at Social Club on Monday 21 August given by Paul Seymour from Tools with a Mission.

TWAM is a charity with Christian ideals that supports livelihoods in some parts of Africa. Paul was able to give very moving examples of community leaders in Zambia building schools and training centres for example. Paul sends out

Dedicated to providing the best possible eye care services, including:

Gillie CranfieldJulie Thickpenny

Members of The National Association of Funeral Directors

tool packs for different usage such as carpentry, building and sewing. He has a huge demand and the need is great. The organisation ensures that the packs are distributed from centres such as churches by selected community leaders to prevent theft. On Saturday 30 September members of Social Club will man the village hall from 10 am to 6 pm to collect tools donated by Layham residents.

Future Meetings of Social Club

October 2 Rosey Nicholls, local photographer will speak about her photography with examples of her work and an opportunity to purchase. Rosey is an accomplished photographer who has had several of her photographs published.

October 16 Paige Pope from Dogs Trust Snetterton will speak about the formation and history of the trust and their valuable work caring for and rehoming dogs. One especially for the dog lovers amongst us! Meetings are from 10 am to 12 pm at Layham Village Hall and there is a small charge of £2 to cover hire and refreshments. All are welcome.

Village Boules Competition The winners of the August 2023 Village Boules Competition, held in the garden of The Dower House opposite the Queen’s Head, were James Andrews and Bryn Cattell.

Christmas Fair - Please Keep the Date

A reminder that the next Christmas Fair will be held on Saturday December 9 from 11 am to 2 pm at Layham Village Hall. We would be grateful for donations of the following: tombola and raffle prizes, bric a brac, cakes, pet toys, Christmas fabric, produce, crafts and wine. Also if you can volunteer for the day your help would be appreciated.

Layham Events Group - layhamevents@gmail.com

Layham Playing Field 120 Club Winners for September were: £25 Ticket No 106 - Burdon, £15 Ticket No 104 - Mayhew.

Layham Community Orchard National Apple Day has been running since 1990 and excitingly, this year for the first time, Layham Community Orchard will be joining in the celebrations. Thanks to Ian Dodson and Robert Keeble, the trees we planted in the spring have been well watered - and Brian Mylod and Will Dunn have done an excellent job keeping the grass down.

The Layham Community Orchard is on Water Lane and will be open from 24pm on Saturday 21 October. Come and have a look around. There will be activities for children and apple-themed refreshments. The trees are too young to bear fruit this year but we will have an apple press and are looking for people who have any spare apples to bring them along to juice on the day.

ALB-Framing

If your picture needs framing, contact me!

I’m a member of the Fine Art Trade Guild, who themselves created the standards and guidelines for art framing together with picture printing. I continually work to these requirements.

Home or office visits are available. Following discussions about your requirements, in situ you’ll see the various framing options. Please contact me: 07769 858076

www.alb-framing.co.uk info@alb-framing.co.uk

Hospice to Host Compassionate Conversations Event at Hadleigh Library

Communities from Hadleigh and the surrounding area are invited to join St Elizabeth Hospice at their latest Compassionate Conversations event at Hadleigh Library. Taking place between 10am-12noon, at Hadleigh Library, Compassionate Conversations is a free awareness training session being delivered by St Elizabeth Hospice.

Compassionate Conversations, sponsored by Memoria Waveney, is aimed at helping people (aged 18+) build the skills and confidence to enable open, honest and sensitive conversations around end of life, loss and bereavement, whilst identifying ways to help and support others.

Hugh McElhinney, Volunteer Community Manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, who leads on the hospice’s facilitation of Compassionate Communities, said:

“We are so pleased to bring Compassionate Conversations to Hadleigh and the surrounding area and look forward to providing support to these local communities. Compassionate Conversations is part of our wider Compassionate Communities work which sees the hospice work alongside the local community to encourage and facilitate open up conversations with friends and loved ones concerning death and how we can all support one another with death, loss and grief.”

The training event will seek to break down taboos and myths about death and dying, while providing guidance on how can all take the time to lend a friendly ear to those in our communities who may be experiencing grief or loss. As well as identifying local support services available for those experiencing end of life, loss and bereavement.

Compassionate Communities is a national approach which supplements the support given by healthcare providers, by equipping the public to support each other with kindness during some of the most difficult times in their lives, such as the death of a loved one or the diagnosis of a serious illness.

As part of Compassionate Communities, St Elizabeth Hospice provides resources and guidance to enable the public to feel more confident in having conversations surrounding the ‘taboo’ topics of bereavement, death and dying.

To register your interest visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/compassionateconversations-tickets-473227134097 or to find out more email hugh.mcelhinney@stelizabethhospice.org.uk

Find out more by visiting www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/compassion.

To find out more about St Elizabeth Hospice call 01473 723600 or visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk.

Hadleigh Healing Society

The leaves on the trees are in their autumnal beauty and the wildlife are stocking up for their winter hibernation. All these things are part of Nature's progression through the seasons but because of the changing weather patterns things do not always go to plan. It makes things difficult for farmers to plan ahead knowing when it is the best time to sow their crops. Everyone is remarking that life is so much more complicated these days. Some find it difficult to cope with everyday life and its resulting problems. If you would like someone to talk to and listen to your concerns our qualified registered healers are there for you. Please allow us to help. Please telephone (answer machine) 01473 823282 or log onto www.hadleighhealingsociety.org or visit Hadleigh Healing Society Facebook page for an appointment.

We are holding one of our popular Clairvoyant Days on Saturday, 14th October between 10am – 4pm. There will be two mediums who can give a 20 minute private reading for £15. If you would like an appointment please book early to avoid disappointment. Please telephone your name and telephone number clearly and we will get back to you.

Hadleigh Library News

September 10th saw the end of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Thank you to everyone who took part and congratulations to those who crossed the finish line! It was fantastic to see so many families enjoying the library this summer. As we move into autumn, October sees us thinking about half term; join us on Wednesday 25th October when we will be holding a craft session for children, 10am – 12pm. There’s no need to book, so come along and get crafty!

A small selection of children's games is now available to borrow with a library card. You will find these in the children’s area. We now also have some children’s jigsaws in our jigsaw swap. Pop in if you have any jigsaws that you would like to donate or swap.

Did you know there are so many things you can do with your library card? Click and collect books from your library, download eBooks, eNewspapers and eMagazines with our OverDrive, Libby and PressReader services. Download free audiobooks and music with our BorrowBox and Freegal services. Stream films, documentaries and courses with Kanopy. For more information, visit https://www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/borrow.

Look out for more Hadleigh Library news and updates in the library and on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HadleighLibrarySuffolk

An Invitation to Jingle and Mingle

It is a somewhat sad saying, but all good things come to an end, and for the Christmas Present Trust, this will be our 9th and final year (although if there is anyone who wishes to take over the running of this event from us, we would be very pleased).

So why not help us go out in style? Whether you have previously attended our free event on Christmas Day, or helped as a volunteer, you are very welcome to join us again this year.

And for those who have never heard of us, if you know of anyone who, for whatever reason, is unable to be with family or friends on Christmas Day, please ask them to get in touch with us if they would like to come along and join the party. You can also nominate yourself!

For more information, please contact Simon or Sarah Thompson on 01473 829246 or email us at christmas.present.trust@gmail.com

News from your Babergh councillors

Temporary changes in the political leadership of Babergh District Council - BDC has announced that its leader Cllr David Busby has been forced to take a break from council business due to health issues, with the two deputy leaders acting up temporarily in the leader’s role. The changes follow a recent cancer diagnosis for Cllr Busby, requiring surgery and ongoing treatment. Cllr John Ward will be acting council leader during Cllr Busby’s absence, handing over that role to Cllr Deborah Saw in November. Babergh’s powersharing coalition, agreed following May’s local elections, will continue. There will be knock-on changes to Cabinet portfolio arrangements with a further announcement to be made shortly. Sites wanted in Hadleigh for sowing wildflower meadows and planting trees - Over the past two years, BDC Biodiversity Team’s free trees, hedgerows and wildflowers scheme has help plant nearly 400 large trees, over 10,000 small trees and hedgerow plants, and enough wildflower seed to cover over 12,000m². We are open for applications that both help wildlife and have public access (so this scheme does not include private gardens). Applications can be for:

•Individual trees

•Tree planting schemes – street trees, a copse, an avenue

•Small community woods

•Hedgerows – both new and improving existing ones, especially where they help bridge gaps in the landscape

•Community or scattered orchards – we are keen to help retain our local heritage varieties and provide a source of free fruit for the local community, as well as helping wildlife

•New wildflower meadows, or changing short mown grass into a meadow area

We want to increase tree canopy cover across the district, currently well below the national average. We also want to get 30% of our land managed for wildlife by 2030 (the ‘30 by 30’ national initiative). We are doing what we can on the council’s land, but need help on other sites to be really successful. This can include parish land, school grounds, recreation grounds, land open to the public regularly, millennium greens and community spaces. Details on the scheme, along with the application form, are available at: https://www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/environment/planting-schemes/treeshedgerows-and-wildflowers-scheme/.

We can provide all plants and protection (canes, stakes, ties and tree guards). Please note, we cannot provide labour or cover the cost of planting and watering afterwards, but we can give advice on how to plant and look after the scheme. We may also be able to help find volunteers for the planting. We are here to help give advice on any application, and you are welcome to ask questions ahead of applying – we want to make it as easy as possible for you to make a difference. Cllrs Simon Dowling (Hadleigh North) and Jane Carruthers (Hadleigh South) are ready to help you decide where and what to plant, and to submit your application – just email or phone us and ask. Together we can make Hadleigh an even greener, healthier and more pleasant place to live!

Cost of living help - BDC and Citizens Advice are calling on those feeling the financial squeeze to check what help they can access – particularly if they have not done so before. The call comes as Sudbury and District Citizens Advice announce that they delivered £5,500 worth of fuel vouchers last financial year. Mid Suffolk Citizen’s Advice said that their team saw a huge spike in demand for their help, advising on 65% more issues than in the previous 12 months. The biggest increases were from people looking for help with consumer goods, such as food, energy, phone and internet bills. This comes at the same time that research by Policy in Practice shows almost £19bn in support goes unclaimed every year, which could change the lives of millions of people nationwide. Residents can contact their district council or local Citizens Advice to find out what help is available. There may be support that they are unaware of, and offers which help cut spending such as 'social tariffs' from internet and phone companies.

Helping residents make their homes warmer and more energy-efficient

- Warm Homes Suffolk is now accepting applications to fund improvements to houses across Babergh, making them warmer this coming winter and saving residents money on their energy bills. Warm Homes Suffolk has new funding available for eligible households to put towards energy efficient measures such as insulation, solar panels or heat pumps. The scheme is administered by Suffolk County Council, and delivered by East Suffolk District Council, on behalf of Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils and other councils in Suffolk. An average of £18,000 in funding per property is available for homeowners meeting the following criteria:

• Homes that are not heated by mains gas

• Homes with an EPC rating of D, or below

• A combined household income of under £31,000 (for certain postcodes)

Jane Caruthers

Simon Dowling

Landlords and tenants are also eligible to apply, with qualifying rental properties getting up to two-thirds of costs, as an average grant of up to £12,000. Since Warm Homes Suffolk began in early 2022, more than 550 properties have been improved, making homes more comfortable and more energy-efficient. Warm Homes Suffolk is also contributing to all the county’s authorities’ goal of being net zero by 2030 as part of the Suffolk Climate Emergency Plan. To find out more about how Warm Homes Suffolk could help you, visit www.warmhomessuffolk.org or call the team on 03456 037686. Free business support on offer to local start-ups - Babergh and Mid Suffolk Councils have teamed up with MENTA to offer start-up businesses free expert support and guidance. As part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the councils were allocated £90,000 to deliver the scheme and have partnered with MENTA to roll it out across the districts. The programme is open to those in Babergh or Mid Suffolk who are thinking of starting a business, are in the process of starting a business, or have recently started their business venture. It's free to enrol on and is set to be open until the end of March 2025, including a range of workshops, 1-to-1 sessions, seminars and much more, all designed to help new businesses flourish. Find out more about the Babergh and Mid Suffolk start-up business support programme on the Heart of Suffolk website. Businesses that don’t qualify for this scheme, such as self-employed social enterprises, can find other available support schemes on the New Anglia Growth Hub website.

Hybrid meeting option for Planning Committee - BDC is now able to offer a hybrid meeting facility for some of our planning committee meetings –meaning public speakers, including town and parish representatives, objectors and supporters, have the option to participate in the meetings via Microsoft Teams rather than attending in person. The hybrid option will only be available for meetings which are held in the Council Chamber, due to technology requirements. The agenda for each meeting will include details of the location for the meeting, and whether speakers are able to join virtually. People attending virtually will do so through Microsoft Teams and will be required to inform the Committees Team at least 24 hours before the meeting that they wish to attend virtually to enable the team to put arrangements in place. Full details will be emailed to attendees joining virtually once they have registered. Members of the Committee, presenting officers, the planning lawyer and the governance officer will still be required to attend in person to ensure that should there be any technical issues the meeting can still proceed. Should you have any queries, please contact our Committee Services team. Developers provide cash boost for community projects - More than £705,000 collected from developers in Babergh and Mid Suffolk is set to be injected back into communities – projects including play areas, cycle paths and village hall improvements will be funded by Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) grants. CIL payments, which are a legal requirement paid by developers of residential sites across the districts, will fund 18 successful bids for community projects including improvements to play areas and additional foot and cycleways across the districts, as well as a new scout hut for Needham Market, and public toilets for disabled visitors to Flatford. Bids made for CIL funding are reviewed every six months and money is earmarked for projects which help local infrastructure keep pace with new building happening in the district. If you know of a community project which might qualify for CIL funding, contact your BDC ward councillor in the first instance. Locality grants - Each BDC councillor has a modest sum to spend on smallscale projects planned by local community groups. If you’d like to apply for an award, contact your ward councillor. Further details about what sort of projects are eligible, examples of successful bids, and the application form which needs to be filled in by the ward councillor and the organisation, are at: www.babergh.gov.uk/communities/grants-and-funding.

If you have concerns that you want to raise with us, or if you want to get involved in tackling any of the issues we’ve mentioned, please get in touch with us at:

Jane.Carruthers@babergh.gov.uk tel 07514 951196

Simon.Dowling@babergh.gov.uk tel 07514 951185

French’s Care Haven

Hello to our readers, I hope as always you have all been keeping well. Thank you to everyone who came along to our barn dance in Boxford village hall, those who come enjoyed themselves with lots of dancing and laughter, which was nice to see and hear.

One of our pictures is a group of people who looked the part for our barn dance. Our next event is a curry night on Thursday 26th October in Hadleigh high street at The India Villa, arrival time at 7 pm for a starter and main buffet, with tea/coffee and a raffle. It will be nice to see you all, £23 pp. Bookings with us for tables before 24th please. Call Sharon if you would like to come and join us on 07999 051401 or email frenchs.100club@gmail.com

I have been calling out for volunteers and someone to work part time for us, as we really need more hands on deck. It has been frankly like banging my head on a wall, there are more people in this country than there have ever been, yet as time goes on trying to find helpers or staff is so hard. I am hearing this from so many people in business or at other charities, what is going on? We need helpers every morning, so if you can give your time for a few hours a week or would like to help part time then do call me, you will need to be relatively fit, as it is a physical job working with larger animals.

Note for diary, we have our Fish and Chip Quiz night at the Ansell Centre in Hadleigh on 18th November. There are normally around 100 people who come along to our great evening of quizzing, so make sure you are one of them, more info will be on our posters and on our website/facebook page in due course.

This lovely photo is of Lady our Shetland having a chill out time, while keeping out of the heat and sun in her shelter, bless her. On the 1st of December we will be starting our Christmas raffle, so if you own a shop a business or you do art and would like to donate a prize for some publicity and of course to help us, that would be really good, contact me - Jann (details below).

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: 07747 755556 or jann.turner@hotmail.co.uk FrenchsCareHaven.org.uk

Free Pop-Up Meals at St Mary’s Church, Hadleigh

We started the Pop Ups in the School Summer Holidays of 2022 as a response to the cost of living crisis, offering free food and drink every Thursday lunch time during the school holidays. In 2023 we have expanded our Pop Up meals and now hold them:

Every Thursday 12 – 2pm in the school holidays.

Every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month 2 - 5.30pm in term time. We are tremendously grateful for food donations from Morrison’s supermarket and financial support from Hadleigh Town Council, Castle Acre Insurance and many kind individuals. This, together with our band of friendly and committed volunteers from both church and the wider community, has enabled us to welcome an average of 100 people to each Pop Up.

So, welcome! Please do come along! We aim to offer everyone from children to those in their 90s a safe place to meet and to have free food and drink. All are welcome – especially those who are finding times complicated. We would love to see you! And if you’d like to support us by volunteering or offering a donation we would welcome this too - Marylou Delfgou & the Pop Up Team

Hadleigh Town Council

FULL COUNCIL MEETING

Thursday 22nd June 2023 at 7pm held in The Grand Hall, Hadleigh Town Hall, Market Place, Hadleigh, IP7 5DN

Minutes

Present Councillors Beggerow, Elliott, Gower, Howlett, McLeod (Chair), Miller, Monks, Shearly-Sanders, Taylor, Wilson and Wright

In Attendance Town Clerk and 2 members of the public (and 2 people via Zoom)

Welcome The Chair welcomed everyone and advised that the Council, members of the public and press may record/film or broadcast the meeting, when the press and public are not lawfully excluded. Any member of the public who attends the meeting is advised that the Town Council cannot control 3rd party recording. The Town Council will record the meeting. Apologies Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Loftus and Minns.

Approval of absence Proposed by Councillor McLeod, seconded by Councillor Taylor the absence of Councillors Loftus and Minns were approved. Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Declarations of Interest Councillor Beggerow declared a non-registrable interest in HTC23.114 LRSG Fees as he is a Committee member of Hadleigh United Football Club who use Layham Road Sports Ground. Councillor Taylor declared a non-registrable interest in HTC23.114 LRSG Fees as he is a Committee member of Hadleigh United Rugby Football Club who use Layham Road Sports Ground.

Dispensations There was no consideration of dispensations.

Minutes Proposed by Councillor Miller, seconded by Councillor Gower it was agreed to approve the minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 22nd June 2023. Vote= 10 For, 0 Against, 1 Abstain

Reports The report from District Councillors Dowling and Carruthers was noted.

Councillor Dowling advised of an update on the Weavers Meadow Play Area and that the Communities Team will support this but the land ownership needs to take place first.

Councillor Dowling also advised of the Orchestral Wellbeing Club which took place at Ansell Centre recently which was part funded by Arts Council and Babergh District Council, he is looking at improving Arts & Heritage within

Hadleigh.

Public Forum A member of the public asked about agenda item 6b –Persistent Communicator Policy and who placed this on the agenda. The Town Clerk confirmed that she had written it after discussion with staff and Councillors.

A member of the public sent in a statement with further questions about the footbridge over the River Brett and that he believed that this did not meet the Disability Discrimination Act 2010.

(It should be noted that this email has also been forwarded to Babergh District Councillors as requested by the member of the public)

A member of the public sent in a question to be read out – Why, yet again, are there no budget comparisons and variances shown for the period April to June in the Council report under item 5 of the agenda?

A member of the public sent in a question regarding parking in Clopton Gardens which he believes are from residents of Benton Street who have lost some parking due to parking restrictions and wonders when the promised car park will be built.

Payment Schedules Proposed by Councillor McLeod, seconded by Councillor Taylor the schedule of invoices received was noted and it was agreed following the agreed amendments to approve any payments over £1,000 that have not previously been agreed. In alignment with the adopted Financial Regulations, all payments under £500 are approved by the RFO, as are items between £500 and £1,000 with clearance of the Chairman of the Council or Chairman of the appropriate committee. Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Quarterly Accounts Proposed by Councillor Taylor, seconded by Councillor Beggerow the first quarter Income and Expenditure Report was received. Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

IFV Quarterly Bank Reconciliation It was noted that the IFV has completed the quarterly bank reconciliations evidencing verification and there are no exceptions.

Financial Regulations Proposed by Councillor Wilson, seconded by Councillor Howlett the Financial Regulations were approved.

Vote = 10 For, 0 Against, 1 Abstain

Investment Strategy Proposed by Councillor Beggerow, seconded by Councillor Gower the Investment Strategy was approved.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Persistent Communicator Policy Proposed by Councillor Wright, seconded by Councillor Miller the Persistent Communicator Policy was approved.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Youth Council Event Proposed by Councillor Beggerow, seconded by Councillor Elliott it was agreed to spend up to £5000 for expenditure above £1000 for items required for the Youth Festival being held on 1st September to include staging, activities etc.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Christmas Event It was noted that the Christmas Event will take place on Saturday 2nd December which will include Craft Fair, Christmas Market and Light Switch On.

Christmas Event Staging Proposed by Councillor McLeod, seconded by Councillor Beggerow spend of £1200 + VAT for staging was agreed.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Christmas Event Road Closures Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Beggerow spend of spend of up to £2000 for road closures and traffic management was agreed. Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Christmas Trees Proposed by Councillor McLeod, seconded by Councillor Gower spend of up to £2000 + VAT for 1 x 25ft Christmas Tree for the Market Place and 65 x 5ft Christmas Trees for residents/businesses on the High Street was agreed. Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Councillors Beggerow and Taylor left the room at 7.57pm.

LRSG Fees Proposed by Councillor Monks, seconded by Councillor Gower the new Layham Road Sports Ground fees were approved.

Vote = 9 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Councillors Beggerow and Taylor returned to the room at 8pm.

Carbon Footprint The half year carbon footprint for the Council was noted. Sustainability Action Plan The status updates of items on the adopted Sustainability Action Plan was noted.

Appointment of Members to Planning Proposed by Councillor McLeod, seconded by Councillor Taylor, Councillor Miller was nominated to the Planning Committee. Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Appointment of Members to HMFC Proposed by Councillor McLeod, seconded by Councillor Gower, Councillor Howlett was nominated to the Hadleigh Market Feoffment Charity Committee.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Appointment of Members to Staffing Sub-committee Proposed by Councillor McLeod, seconded by Councillor Gower, Councillor was nominated to the Staffing Sub-committee.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Safer Community Working Group Proposed by Councillor Shearly-Sanders, seconded by Councillor Monks the formation of the Safer Community Working

Group was agreed. Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Safer Community Working Group Members Proposed by Councillor Taylor, seconded by Councillor Monks, Councillors McLeod, Wilson, Gower & Wright were appointed to the Safer Community Working Group.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Biodiversity Action Plan Working Group There was no proposer or seconder for this agenda item.

Assistant Clerk Interviews Proposed by Councillor Miller, seconded by Councillor Wilson it was agreed that Councillors Taylor and Howlett will sit on the interview panel for the Assistant Clerk.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Exclusion of the press and public Proposed by Councillor Wilson, seconded by Councillor Beggerow it was agreed to exclude the press and public in pursuance of Section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 the Press and the Public shall be excluded for the next items of business on the grounds that it is likely to be prejudicial to the public interest by reason of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

The meeting was suspended at 8.16pm

The meeting reconvened at 8.24pm

CONFIDENTIAL SESSION: EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC

Complaint A Stage 3 complaint was discussed and a response was agreed.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Minutes The minutes of the Confidential session on 23rd May 2023 were approved. Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Hadleigh Pool and Leisure The latest annual report from Abbeycroft Leisure regarding Hadleigh Pool & Leisure Centre was received.

Vote = 11 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Future Meetings The next scheduled meeting will be on Thursday 17th August 2023.

Close of Meeting The meeting closed at 9.04pm

Wendy

Brame, Town Clerk

Generating Clean Energy For Over Ten Years

Energy on Tap Limited was born in May 2012, that was also when I left the army after 29 years service. I had long been interested in the environment and I could see the need for change in the energy sector, so I decided to set up a renewable energy company and install solar PV (photovoltaic). From the outset the company ethos was all about delivering ‘free’ energy with the best customer service. I was soon joined by my son Tom and over the last decade we have installed hundreds of solar PV systems in Hadleigh and the surrounding areas. We also provide general electrical services and in recent years have added battery storage systems and electric car charge points to our services. While prices of solar PV have come down significantly since the earlier days, it is still quite expensive and so for anyone considering installing solar PV then the best advice I can give is do your home work. Get some quotes and ask lots of questions and find an installer that you feel comfortable with.

Hadleigh Community Primary School

Music: On Tuesday 12th

September, children in Year 6 and some invited Year 5s were visited by the Suffolk Philharmonic Orchestra. The group performed an engaging selection of pieces, linked by their chosen theme of 'Nature'.

During the visit, Mr Betts announced that the school is forming their own orchestra comprised of Year 5 and 6 pupils. Here is our newly formed orchestra, alongside members of the SPO.

Reception: The Reception Team would like to say thank you to Skar Precision Mouldings and Box Valley Architectural Design for their generous donations in helping us create and resource a sensory area. The area has been designed to be accessed by all children and has equipment to support calming and self-regulation. The wall mounted bookshelf encourages children to choose books relating to their interests and give us the opportunity to share books. We are only half way through the first half term and it has been a well received area of the Reception Unit!

Station Road, Hadleigh, Suffolk, IP7 5HQ - https://hadleighcp.school

Suffolk & Essex Small Animal Welfare Reg charity no 1124029

Cats Protection created National Black Cats Day on 27th October to “…celebrate the majesty of monochrome moggies…” having ascertained rehoming black/black white cats took longer in 2011. Mother will tell you this is still the case. She will also confirm I am not the easiest pet to live with, rather like another animal we homed recently. Whereas I am a cat, he is a Jack Russell / Chihuahua cross, his name is also Ollie and he has plenty of ‘attitude’ too! He arrived due to his owner’s illness and didn’t settle in the first home we found, but the second was ideal. He now lives with a couple by the sea, he rides on his master’s mobility scooter and they know just how to manage his funny ways! It can be difficult to find the right home for animals with varied personalities but we usually succeed. There are worldwide myths predicting dire or delightful consequences for those who see, touch or live with black cats. I don’t claim to bring you good or bad luck but I do offer my annual warning to keep all your pets safe during the firework season. It can be a very scary time for us so please keep you dogs and cats indoors with you at night, close the windows and curtains, provide a ‘safe place’, play music and investigate calming room diffusers. Insulate outdoor hutches or move them to a shed or garage and check for hedgehogs before you build a bonfire. I’ll close now as it's getting dark outside - and Mother’s broomstick stands waiting for me, Ollie (the Black) Cat!

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

www.hadleighcommunitynews.co.uk

Ukraine Aid Continues

I have recently returned from my ninth and tenth trips in to Ukraine, the ninth part funded by Kesgrave and Little Bealings churches, driving a Ukrainian woman, her daughter, their cat and belongings home from Ipswich to Dnipro, in the family car, following the passing of the father on Christmas day `22. They wanted and needed to be with family at this difficult time, despite the risks, all too evident in the missile attack on Dnipro on 28th July, when 2 large explosions made us jump and run to the bathroom, where the 9 year old daughter stood crying between her mother and uncle. I now know the target was a large residential block with children amongst the casualties, as reported in world press. This adds to my determination to work with many others, doing what we can to ease suffering and support Ukrainians at this time.

I published my “GoFundMe” fundraising details in the July edition. The mission described is part completed, with a little modification, via my tenth trip in August. I purchased and delivered one car to mechanics in Mykolaiv who converted it to an “off road” casualty recovery vehicle and then I drove it to a battalion in Kherson, as pictured.

£2500 is being used to purchase a car carrying trailer in Ukraine, rather than in the UK, due to the greater future ease of using a Ukraine registered trailer in Ukraine and Poland where required. A further vehicle, a “pick up”, kindly donated by an individual, Peter Elliston, is currently having welding repairs and will be used also to recover wounded soldiers and to help mobility against a far larger army. I aim to deliver this vehicle in October. For my latest trip, I had removed all rear seating in the vehicle (thank you Ken Wilding!), which allowed for a large donated supplies load (4x generators, 3x oxygen concentrators, a defibrillator, medical supplies, water pumps, some specialist food supplies and other goods for the displaced persons shelter in Lviv - hygiene, infant care, toiletries items and gifts for children from Heath Primary school in Ipswich).

I have received such generous financial and supplies donations to date from Morrisons Hadleigh, Kesgrave and Bealings churches, friends, local people and those further afield, both British and Ukrainian, (only about half are reflected in the GoFundMe), such that I have been able to undertake the above and have money to pay for repairs to the gifted car. Money continues to be needed of course, to cover delivery costs, any specific supplies requested, and ongoing aid trips. So, if you would like to support, please see the QR code above and/or contact me direct to discuss.

The QR code facilitates donations direct to the registered charity, “British Ukrainian Aid”, who then administer the funds raised for the projects I lead. The Kyiv military hospital, I have delivered to several times, have asked if I might be able to source a 10-12 KW single phase diesel generator, in anticipation of another winter where power supply infrastructure is targeted. Such generators new cost between 5-7K so I am hoping there may be a second hand one available or the incredible generosity of people is able to rise to this challenge also. A continuing request is also for car mechanics tools, to help battalions maintain and repair vehicles.

Between these trips, there is much work around fund raising, sourcing/collecting supplies etc, and Mediquip Ipswich provided me with a third large load of valuable medical aids I was able again to take to the Ukrainian warehouse in London for onward delivery to hospitals and centres in Ukraine who forward photos of delivery and use. My huge thanks again to John Grose Ipswich for yet another free loan of a Luton for this purpose! There is not space to express my heartfelt individual thanks to so many people again, for all your gifts and words of encouragement too, that makes these trips and the support possible. I would emphasise again how much Ukrainians express that such initiatives, individual, small and larger, are such a vital encouragement to them and, together, add huge value to the international government aid delivered, and provide for very real needs, often with the precision and speed that is more difficult to achieve through large organisations. THANK YOU!!

PS. If any local group would appreciate opportunity to hear detail of this work, with a view to assisting in some way, please contact to discuss.

David Jacobs - 07500 531901

We can now offer servicing and repairs for car and van air conditioning systems including newer vehicles

Please write to: Jason Holder 68 High Street, Hadleigh, Ipswich IP7 5EF or email: commnews@keithavis.co.uk

Dear Sir,

I would like to thank the residents of Hadleigh South who voted for me in the recent Babergh District Council election. I am very grateful to you for giving me the opportunity to represent Hadleigh South again and will do my best to speak up for Hadleigh and fight for the matters that are important to this town. I think that it is important that Hadleigh has a broad spectrum of views in its representation of the town and as an Independent I do not have to answer to any party.

Just as importantly, I will continue to look after the daily concerns of individual residents - don’t forget, you can email me, phone me or visit me in person at my monthly surgery which I hold at 11am - mid day on the second Saturday of the month at the British Legion in George Street. My surgery will take a break in July and August, but I will still be available by email. I look forward to serving you for another four years and thank you again for your vote.

Your

sincerely,

Cllr Kathryn Grandon Babergh District Councillor for Hadleigh South

Hadleigh Residents Braced for Broadband Boost as Work Starts

Engineering work started this month to connect more than 3,800 homes in Hadleigh to full fibre broadband - part of a £27 million rural infrastructure boost for Suffolk.

The work is being carried out by broadband provider Gigaclear to extend its full fibre network to underserved market towns and rural communities in the county. Residents will begin to have access to the service by the end of the year, with the work due to be completed by spring 2024.

Delivery Director Tony Smith said: “There are many great benefits to living in rural communities such as Hadleigh but having access to the fastest broadband speeds is not necessarily an obvious one. That’s because people living in large towns and cities, on average, enjoy much faster speeds than people in rural locations. However, Gigaclear's mission is to address this gap. “We’re investing more than £27 million in rural Suffolk to make sure residents living in communities such as Hadleigh are just as able to work from home, stream online entertainment, scroll and gameplay as people living in more urban areas.”

During the engineering work, Gigaclear will be utilising existing Openreach ducts and poles wherever possible in order to minimise disruption. For more information, visit www.gigaclear.com

The John Bloomfield Memorial Lecture

In recent years the tower and windows of St Mary's Church Hadleigh, which is a grade one listed building, has had extensive repair and restoration work. This year we thought we would highlight the work of the craftsmen who had helped to carry out the work, and so it is our great pleasure to present talks by two members of the teams, a lead worker and a stonemason. Both are well qualified to inform us of their work on the building and other aspects of their crafts.

The event will last from 10am until 12pm with a break for refreshments and the cost is £10, with tickets available on the door. Parking is at Magdalen Road Car Park as there is very limited parking at the church.

The Friends of St. Mary’s Church, Hadleigh

THE JOHN BLOOMFIELD

ANNUAL MEMORIAL LECTURE

Saturday 7th October, 9.30am for 10am start at St Mary’s Church, Hadleigh, Suffolk

David Adamson –Stonemason

Michael Anderson –Lead Worker

Tickets £10 - on the door, or from the Benefice Office in the Deanery Tower Coffee, tea and biscuits will be available

Hadleigh Art Club

We meet from 2.00 until 4.30 pm on Tuesday afternoons in the Seminar Room above the Library. For those who ask, we try to give advice, guidance and constructive criticism but there is no 'teacher'. We all do art because we enjoy it, not necessarily because we are good at it, we all have pieces that turn out well and others that don't, so please don't worry about your ability, just come along and join in, we're a friendly group.

We charge £2 per session to the cover cost of room hire and tea/coffee. You only pay for the sessions you attend and the first one is free so you are welcome to drop in and see us on a Tuesday afternoon. Annual membership subs are £5 and are due each May.

We have a list of weekly topics and these are only suggestions for anyone who wants ideas on what to do. Some people will be working on one of the topics (not always the current week’s) while others will be working on their own subject. Feel free to choose.

Our topics for October:

03 Oct:Farm machinery - tractors, ploughs, etc. Perhaps old and rusting.

10 Oct:Harvest time - fruit and vegetables. Bring examples with you.

17 Oct:Demonstration

24 Oct:Follow-up on what was learnt in demonstration

31 Oct:Portraits

HADLEIGH ROYAL BRITISH LEGION presents FESTIVAL OF REMEMBRANCE

TICKETS £10

Raising funds for the 2023 Poppy Appeal

Suffolk County Christmas Fair

The ultimate Christmas shopping experience is coming to Suffolk this November. The Suffolk County Christmas Fair is taking place over three days in the grounds of the award-winning hotel, Hintlesham Hall, on the outskirts of Ipswich, for the first time ever. Shoppers will be able to browse over 120 stalls selling a range quality goods including handcrafted items, festive decorations, artisan food and drink and unique gifts. Stalls will be set up within heated marquees and throughout the stunning grounds of Hintlesham Hall. There will be licensed bars selling mulled wine, luxury hot chocolate and other warming tipples, plus a choice of delicious street food stalls on offer including German sausages and roasted chestnuts to really get you in the festive spirit. Live music can be enjoyed all weekend with carol singers, a brass band and vintage close harmony group The Harmonettes singing Christmas favourites plus stilt walkers and LED performers will be appearing at intervals. For littles ones and the young at heart there will be a Ferris Wheel and children’s carousel ride located on the front lawn. Santa will also be visiting the fair on the Friday and Saturday to chat to shoppers and pose for photo opportunities.

The event, which takes place from Friday 24th to Sunday 26th November, is being organised by Prestige County Events, who also run the popular Christchurch Park Market, that takes place in Ipswich.

Darren Perry, Owner of Prestige County Events said, “We are excited to be bringing this wonderful festive event to Hintlesham Hall and look forward to it becoming a regular fixture in the calendar. When choosing our stallholders, we always focus on quality, variety and showcasing local artisans and small businesses. We have been working hard since January to make this a really special event full of festive cheer, talented stallholders and creating the ultimate Christmas shopping experience for our visitors.”

Tickets for the event are available now and selling fast, with some entry time slots already sold out. Visit www.suffolkcountychristmasfair.co.uk for more information and to book tickets.

Orchard Barn News

Our 1580s Long House project, which will be our new education space, has progressed well over the Summer with help from lots of wonderful volunteers, and several Summer School/working parties of Architecture students from University College London. A successful crowd funding campaign also boosted our funds, enabling us to pay for quadruple glazing as well as materials and tuition for volunteers to learn carpentry, and construct our new staircase. A huge thank you to all who supported us!

From mid-October our focus will change to making and fitting the wooden tiles (shingles) for the roof and once again we need volunteers to help us. Why not join us on our community building project – no experience necessary! Volunteer working parties will be on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and most Saturdays.

•Learn new skills or refresh carpentry skills that you already have, using traditional woodworking tools.

•Meet like-minded people and make new friends.

•Enjoy being part of a shared project which is environmentally friendly.

•Benefit from gentle green gym exercise in the fresh air.

•Unwind and enjoy our beautiful site and the wildlife that lives there.

•See your contribution make a real difference.

We are always pleased to welcome new volunteers. To find out more about us and what we do, or to volunteer with us, take a look at our website http://www.orchardbarn.org.uk, email carole.orchardbarn@gmail.com or call Sarah on 07766 054042.

Orchard Barn, Ringshall, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 2LY

Hadleigh Hares News

Rachel Bodsworth and Adam Chamberlin took on the SVP100 in August. The SVP100 is a race that was put on by ultra athlete Matthew Hearne in an attempt to bring ultra running to the Eastern Region and allow runners to experience this type of event and showcase his local area. It is a simple concept, the race follows the river Stour from a starting point in Newmarket all the way through the Stour Valley and finishes in Brantham as the river merges into the estuary and finally the sea. As usual there are checkpoints along the way but to add some extra spice cut off times to keep you pressing on. Adam signed up for the race in 2022 not really knowing what it would take to complete it. He was very new to running, but in his head to run 100km he just needed to run for longer! But after not completing that race, he just put that one down to experience and knew that in 2023 he had come back to complete the race.

Covering all those miles was just as much a mental battle as well as a physical one, but hearing cheers from friends and family encouraged him on. After over 13 hours of effort he crossed the finish line covering the distance from Newmarket to Brantham. In her own words, this is Rachel’s description of her race:

It’s always an early wake up call for the SVP100 and my alarm went off at 3.45am. After a final kit check I drove to Brantham to take the coach to Newmarket. The journey to the beginning of many of the marathons I’ve run is part of the experience; people chat and excitement builds as you near the start.

The SVP100 is very different, it’s still dark outside and as soon as we‘re underway everyone turns off the overhead lights and concentrates on rest and breakfast. I was in awe of the runner on the seat behind me who curled up and seemed to sleep the whole journey. There’s no chatting as we all are all aware of the distance to be run ahead and need to conserve as much energy as possible.

In an attempt to give myself some extra confidence I had decided to wear my black 3 star t-shirt. This obviously means absolutely nothing to most people but it’s the t-shirt you receive after running the SVP100 three times and there’s not too many of them about. After the race briefing we all walked up the road and at 7am we were off. A slow and steady start is required and I soon fell into a comfortable pace alongside a group of fellow runners. 100k is daunting to run but I never consider the whole distance, instead focusing on each check point and making sure I’m hydrating and fuelling as I go. I try to reach the second check point in Clare feeling strong and knowing that that’s a third of the race completed. Then, I concentrate on Long Melford, which is over half way. The route from Nayland to the finish is very familiar so it’s a push to the end. Sounds simple?!

At least half of the effort running long trail runs is mental so I try to trick myself into thinking so! In reality, I found fuelling hard. I made myself eat the salty potatoes at Lamarsh and chastised myself for consuming too many sugary snacks. I got it right last time but felt nauseous for a lot of this run. Despite quite a bit of walking towards the end, and needing my head torch, I finished well within the cut off.

I’d rung my children when I got to Stratford St Mary and they’d got a lift with a friend to be at end. I was so pleased to see them all, they’d brought snacks and took the obligatory medal photos. These are the moments I remember from the race; chats with fellow competitors, Lucy appearing at the first checkpoint and spraying me with cool spray, Kitty’s magic socks, phone calls when the hills were tough and my Dad sitting at the Mill Hotel in Sudbury with a change of shoes and then walking with me along the route to his car.

The check points and their volunteers were amazing, the race was very well run and has amazing scenery. If you’re looking for a long day out next August I’d definitely recommend it!

A huge congratulations to both Rachel and Adam on this huge achievement.

If you would like to join a friendly and supportive running club as a member or a coach you can find out all about us and how to join at www.hadleigh-hares.co.uk

CARS

2013-13Mercedes E250 2.1 Diesel 2dr Black81k£13995

The Hellgate Club

Common Ground Theatre Company present their Autumn Tour... The Hellgate Club by Pat Whymark.

Paris, 1905. A series of strange happenings have the authorities baffled. Several men have disappeared under mysterious circumstances, with no connection between them other than that they were last seen in the vicinity of the notorious Pigalle district.

With no leads, the police ask retired detective, Jean Tellier to take one last case. Sensing danger around every street corner, in every dimly lit café, in every dark doorway, Tellier begins by interviewing the proprietors and staff of the local bars and nightclubs.

Based on a real life case of the time, Common Ground present a gothic murder mystery, with live music in the style of the period. Julian Harries plays Jean Tellier. Also in the cast, Ben Elder and Bernie Stewart.

Friday 13th & Sat 14th October, 7.30pm at The Old School, Hadleigh, IP7 6BY. Ticket prices (unless stated otherwise) - Full: £13, U21s: £10. For more info and booking, go to: www.commongroundtc.co.uk

Churches in Hadleigh – Praying for Hadleigh

The people of the churches in Hadleigh are committed to praying for our town. Over the course of each year we plan to pray for every street in Hadleigh. During October we will be praying for the following streets:-

W/C 1st Oct: Highlands Road, Station Road, Station Yard.

W/C 8th Oct: Inkerman Close, Inkerman Terrace, Spooners Lane, Lady Lane, Place Farm Close.

W/C 15th Oct: Magdalen Road, Gayford Court, Sidney Brown Court, Guthrum Road, White Lion Court, Maiden Way.

W/C 22nd Oct: Lady Lane Ind. Est., Malyon Road, Little Lumpkid, Crockatt Road, Kilnbottom. W/C 29th Oct: Woodthorpe Road.

If you know people who live in these streets, we would be very pleased if you also would pray for them. If you live on one of the streets being covered during a particular week and would welcome prayer, please get in touch.

Hadleigh Baptist Church pastorchristodd@hadleighbaptist.org.uk

Hadleigh URC Barbara Robinson 828352 barobi1506@gmail.com

St Joseph’s RC Church Anita Rosbrook 810057 a.rosbrook@btinternet.com

St Mary’s CoE Jessica Janas 822671 jessicanevard@btinternet.com

Hadleigh Walkers

Our October walk on Saturday 14th will be starting and ending in Stoke by Nayland. We will meet at the car park by the tennis courts on School Lane (what3 words unpainted.coarser.blanked). A map showing where the parking area is relative to the church will also be shown on the website. Our route will be Steps Fm, Polstead Bridge, Scotland Hall, Along the Stour Valley Path to Thorington Street then Tendring Hall Fm, Poplar Fm and back into Stoke-byNayland.

As usual we will depart promptly at 0930 and should be finished by around 1230. We will have two short refreshment stops along the way. We aim to average a not-too-demanding 2.5 mph (4 km/hr) and walkers need to be able to maintain this pace. The route is fairly undemanding. However, any kind of 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. Route maps can be requested from our website. For further information about these walks go to www.hadleighwalkers.com or email us at hadleighwalkers@gmail.com

elmsett storshops

Email: aksmithplastering@hotmail.co.uk

Web:

M S L Plumbing and Heating

Your local business DIRECTORY

Have your company listed for £6.25 + VAT per month (Minimum insertion 4 months) and reach 10,000 local homes and businesses

For more information call Matt on 01473 823366

Felt Roofing

Architect

Franklyn Nevard......................01473 372382

Artist

PetArt Digital Artist.................01449 741553

Art Gallery

Brett Gallery............................01449 741553

Accountants / Financial Services

Thompson Financial Consulting ...01473 828973

Walter Wright..........................01473 822143

Suffolk Tax Accountants.........01473 657000

Toucan Financial.....................07852 374908

Bathrooms, Plumbing and Heating

Gallagher................................01473 828806

Plumbmate.............................01473 810088

Roundhouse Plumbing...........07939 082630

Spear......................................07775 690158

GJ Watts.................................01473 829644

MSL Plumbing........................07979 288844

CJ Plumbing & Heating...........01473 822775

AHM Installations...................01473 206918

Buddha Plumbing & Heating...07710 081745

Blinds for windows & conservatories

Ventanilla Blinds.....................01787 313677

Turners Blinds.........................01473 610830

Butchers

Andrews Butchers...................01473 827720

Builders / Property Maintenance

C.A. Builders...........................01473 824404

Simon Farthing.......................07823 333451

Grass To Glass........................01473 828269

Conor Styles Carpentry...........07710 502657

AK Smith Plastering................07808 027116

Cards, Gifts, Stationery

Keith Avis................................01473 823131

Carpets / Flooring

A.J. Carpets............................01473 822240

Car Sales,

Garden Services

4 Life Landscapes...................01473 828117

Grass To Glass........................01473 828269

Hair and Beauty

Hadleigh Hairloom..................01473 822191

Ashleigh Hair Studio...............07921 509413

Danielle Butcher......................07890 186065

Health and Fitness

Hadleigh Boxford Practice......01473 822961

Hadleigh Dental Surgery.........01473 823092

Sally Mowles Foot Health Care.01473 822902

Hadleigh Physiotherapy..........01473 810185

Body & Mind As One.............07506 350 455

Kinetic Health..........................01473 806240

House Moving / Removals

Todds Removals.....................01787 377489

I.T. and Computer Services

Vulcan Computer Services......07711 904439

Home Computer Services.......01473 829552

Laundry Services

Press Gang.............................01473 558448

Newsagents

Keith Avis................................01473 823131

Nursing & Care Services

Laxfield House.........01787 247340 / 247495

Waterfield House....................01473 944654

Caring Homes Group.............0808 175 4470

Opticians

Dunstone Optometry..............01473 823755

Painting & Decorating

Pubs, Restaurants, Food & Drink

The Cock Inn Hadleigh............01473 941049

Kings Head Hadleigh...............01473 805794

Corncraft.................................01449 740456

The Angel Lavenham..............01787 247388

Shops

Hollowtrees.............................01449 741247

Funeral / Grave Services

East Coast Cremations............07747 114396

R. Gwinnell.............................01473 824440

W. A. Deacon..........................01787 248282

Viv Dawson - Civil Celebrant....07761239718

Garden Machinery Repair

W. J. Green.............................01473 823839

Simon Farthing.......................07823 333451

CPH Property Services...........07717 059370

Pest Control

Lister Countryside Services....07919 287656

Picture Framing

ALB Framing...........................07769 858076

Blue Magpie Framing..............01787 583751

Printers

Keith Avis Printers..................01473 823366