The Felixstowe Magazine - 2023

This year has come with so many mixed emotions. When we turn on the news we are hit in every direction with frightening news and turmoil. I will never forget a Rotary Club talk I attended, given by the Chief Editor of a national newspaper. He spoke about how good news statistically sells more, but for various vested interests, it’s the bad news that’s pushed.

Truly, the volume of wonderful things going on the world is breathtakingand the value of bringing this into your life is more impactful than can be imagined. It’s one of the reasons I began this magazine and it’s one of the reasons I cherish the people of Felixstowe so much for all they do.

I’m going to unashamedly take a moment to plug The Felixstowe App. It was many moons ago that my brainchild was concieved with the purpose to bring to surface all your inspiring stories. It finally came to life in the summer of 2020. As Felixstowe’s ONE and ONLY community app, it helps to create connections and spread happiness by sharing everything about Felixstowe. If you’ve not yet downloaded it, I urge you to do so and to turn on your notifications, so Felixstowe will truly be at your fingertips. I wish you all an abundance of joy, success and good health.

A Message from the Mayor

A message from the Mayor of Felixstowe

May I take this opportunity to wish you all a Happy New Year!

2022 was an extraordinary year on so many levels. Many of us just trying to return to a normal life and understand what that new normal means.

The New Year also marks 8 months in office as Mayor of Felixstowe. When I look back it has been a roller coaster of a ride starting with those joyful jubilee celebrations. I vividly recall standing on the Town Hall steps in a sea of red, white and blue reading so proudly Her Majesty The Queen’s Jubilee Proclamation, to just over 3 months later standing again on the Town Hall steps, in a sea of black and mourning, both privileged and nervous to read The King’s proclamation.

Then history unfolded in an amazing spectacle of glorious splendor. The pageantry, pomp and processions put the Great back in Great Britain and I felt immensely proud to be British. We have over 1000 years of history worth celebrating, so no one else could have given Her Majesty a better send off.

Felixstowe spring and summer rejoiced as both the Flower Festival and Felixstowe Carnival returned, determined to be better than ever before. It was fun and an honour to lead our carnival (themed superheroes and villains), as Supergirl. The weather was fantastic, and the crowds were overwhelming - a perfect weekend.

One of the highlights looking back was a lunch with the surviving former female Mayors of Felixstowe. In total there have been 14 female Mayors since 1974, including myself as the 50th Mayor of Felixstowe. There were many adventures relived and top tips shared. An inspirational afternoon.

Another poignant moment was celebrating Ukraine Independence Day with over 100 of our Ukraine guests. A day of music, dance and history and by night a candlelit vigil. Our sincere gratitude to our host families for their kindness and compassion. I’d like to think that the Ukrainians have enriched our lives and culture too.

After a glorious summer, autumn took a different turn. The political turmoil and the cost-of-living crisis became the main headlines. Our focus turned to supporting our communities through rising energy bills and daily cost of living. Warm rooms, winter warmth packs, free meal schemes, pop-up shops and food banks.

Amongst the doom and gloom the Mayors Charity Fashion Show Extravaganza was absolutely fabulous and lifted our spirits indeed. What a night! Charities, retail, members of the public all coming together to make a difference, raising over £6000 in one night. People are still talking about the event all over town.

Christmas brought our communities together again - a magical time. The Lions Club ‘Xmas light switch on’ brought record crowds to the town centre, the ever-popular ice rink was back, new Christmas markets were

buzzing, life-size angels adorned the town, Landguard Fort created a winter wonderland and let’s not forget the Knitmas Tree! Behind the scenes we had our community groups working incredibly hard to give everyone possible a Christmas dinner and most importantly company.

As we welcome this New Year, we already have some exciting days on the Felixstowe calendar with the coronation of King Charles III on May 6, the return of the St. George’s Day Scout Parade in April, The Mayors Ball April 28th, a new festival ‘Love Felixstowe,’

so keep September 6th free for an event to remember!

January 31st marks the 70th anniversary of the Felixstowe floods. 41 people died, including whole families,13 of them children. An exhibition, book launch, church service and candlelit procession are being planned.

A mayoral goal of mine going forward is to engage the local community with opportunities to improve our health. So do not be surprised if you’re invited to put your best foot forward and join me on a health walk in the spring!

FELIXSTOWE COMMEMORATES

Queen Elizabeth II

Last year, Felixstowe mourned the loss of one of the most constant and dedicated figures in history. Here is a selection if photos and stories from local people, in remembrance of Her Royal Highness.

From Edward Chilvers who provided the feature photo above: “The Queen always stood with her people in times of tragedy and disaster. Here she visits Felixstowe in the aftermath of the devastating floods of 1953. It was the first of many visits she made to Suffolk as Queen and also the saddest.”

passed us. I remember the excitement that filled there air and how much the locals prepared for Her Royal Highness’s arrival. I was just a 5 years old. I don’t remember not having the Queen in my life. She will be so missed.”

Resident from Old Felixstowe: “I was born in Kenya and I remember the great elephant tusks of Mombasa that were installed in1952 in honour of the Queen. I remember the cheers as her car drove

Photo courtesy of Edward Chilvers

Photo credit: Old cambrian Society

Supplied by MK Kawa

Photo credit: Carl Earrye of the Queen’s 90th birthday parade

From Gerry Bremner of Trimley St. Martin: “She has been a constant backdrop to my life and that of my grandparents and parents and has also represented this nation with great dignity across the world especially within the Commonwealth countries. I felt that whilst our politicians seem more than capable of repeatedly dragging this nations reputation into the gutter she stood resolute and unshaking in her integrity and morality and I feel garnered respect for herself, our country and its people as a result. God bless you Elizabeth Regina for your service to your high office and your nation. Now it is your time to re-join Phillip and to feel the release of the responsibility you have carried for so long. You have done us all proud Mam.”

Arlene Ell a police officer based in Felixstowe, told me how the she learnt the grave news. Her working patch covers Walton and Felixstowe and she is currently working nights. Asleep when the news broke she woke to find a text message from her sister filling her in on what had happened. Arlene arrived at the Police Station to find the flags were already flying at half-mast. She and her fellow officers felt they should do something but were at a loss to know quite what it should be. They completed the simplest but most heart-felt of tasks in respect for the Queen. They polished their boots.

trimleystmartinrecordersblog.com View many more photos and stories online.

Along with so many other businesses and churches, the Flags at The Mariners at half-mast.

Photo courtesy of Barbara Shout. The Proclamation made in Felixstowe outside the Town Hall.

Writing in the book of Condolence in Trimley St. Martin’s Church. Photo courtesy: Robin Biddle.

Elizabeth Rastrick

Elizabeth Rastrick, creator of Trimley St. Martin Village Recorder’s blog, brought together this beautiful piece...

A second Parish Council acknowledgement of the Queen’s death.

FELIXSTOWE AUTHOR

Ann Hayton

When I was growing up in Felixstowe in the 1970s and 80s, I had only one answer to the question what I wanted to be when I grew up... I wanted to be a writer.

Even as a child, though, I knew this wasn’t easily achieved and I kept the ambition deeply hidden (I said ‘nurse’ if anyone asked). Only my parents and a handful of my closest friends knew about my dream. Why so secretive? Probably because even at eleven years old, it felt a bit like tilting at windmills. I knew I loved books and reading, and I knew I wanted to write my own, but I didn’t know how you became a writer and my family didn’t know any writers. My burning ambition was both the thing I

wanted to do more than anything else in the world, and simultaneously mysterious, almost certainly unattainable and probably ridiculous. So I kept very quiet about it.

At the end of 2021, “The Other Side of the Whale Road”, my first novel for teenagers, was published by the amazing publishing house Eye and Lightning Books. This was exciting enough after forty years but then something even better happened...

The journey of becoming a published, successful writter.

Forty years later, a lifetime, just before I retired from my career as a Suffolk health visitor, the dream came true.

‘‘

The book is published under my married surname and initials; K. A. Hayton (the initials because there’s some evidence that boy readers are resistant to reading books with a woman’s name on the cover). But, it was as “Karen Blain” that I grew up and went to school, first at Colneis and then at Deben High. I was a bookworm from an early age, and had been writing since I was old enough to hold a pen without putting it in my mouth. I wrote poems and short stories until I was about thirteen, when I suddenly realised, thanks to an inspirational English teacher called, Mr Hotton, that I could attempt something longer and more ambitious. Mr Hotton was a very expressive teacher who said exactly what he thought. One afternoon when we were probably as a class being more than usually annoying, I heard him mutter, “I could be at home right now, writing my novel!”

It was a lightbulb moment. Until then, rather weirdly, I hadn’t realised that writing a novel was something anyone could do. Somehow, I’d thought that you needed to have been born special, an accident of birth a bit like being born a Royal. But Mr Hotton’s exasperated remark made me see that anyone could do it. All you needed was time, paper and a pen. Suddenly, I couldn’t wait to get started. That was the start of my long apprenticeship as a novelist. I wrote steadily throughout my teens and all through university and whilst working in London in my early twenties, and

carried on whenever possible between the demands of working and looking after children. I had features published in a few magazines and a couple of short story successes. But it was a full length novel I really wanted to write and none of the novels I finished were very good. The earlier ones were frankly atrocious. But, they were necessary steps on the ladder that led, finally, to 2021 and my book deal.

“

The Other Side of the Whale Road” is a book for young adult readers aged between about 12 and 15. It is the story of Joss, who when taken into foster care in the Suffolk village of Hoxne, finds himself, after an accident with a bike, back in Anglo Saxon Suffolk at the time of the Viking invasion. Is it real, or is he just concussed?

He ends up becoming part of the legend surrounding the death of King Edmund in 869 and in doing so makes a difference to his own life, which is going in the wrong direction at the start of the novel.

The book took a long time to write and went through many drafts.

... ever since I first encountered Anglo Saxon poetry as part of my English Literature degree. But it wasn’t until my children were older and needing me less that I started to write the first draft. I did a lot of research for the Anglo Saxon sections of the book, and still managed to get things wrong! Fortunately I had a wonderful editor at Eye and Lightning who corrected the worst of my wild historical inaccuracies.

...The book was selected for a shortlist of three for the Mal Peet Children’s Book Award, which is the children’s category of the prestigious East Anglian Book Award.

The idea of writing about the Dark Ages in a way that was accessible and interesting to young adult readers had been with me a long time...

‘‘

“The Other Side of the Whale Road” is an exciting (I hope) story involving Vikings and time travel. But it seeks to do more; asking questions about otherness and racism and bullying. The Whale Road of the title comes from the Old Norse kenning for the sea – the book examines how we feel about people who come from other places, places that lie beyond our experience or knowledge. It is a novel about standing up for what is right. I feel very lucky to have had some good reviews, from librarians, other writers and reviewers, which is lovely but also from teenage readers, which is the best feeling ever.

I have been back in Suffolk for twenty years, albeit outside Woodbridge rather than Felixstowe. I’m here at least once a week though, and it will always be home. My parents still live here, as well as aunts, uncles and cousins,and however much the town changes and grows, my favourite bits remain the same. I love walking along the seawall at the Ferry, past the houseboats, or taking my dog on wintery beach walks. I love swimming in the sea either at the Dip or the other end by Landguard Common. And when I take my dog to the Grove, the trees are just the same and I feel like I’m ten years old again.

Ann

Hayton Twitter: @HaytonKa

The scenes from the care system in the modern part of the novel are drawn from my experiences working as a health visitor in various parts of Suffolk, including nine years in Felixstowe and seven in Saxmundham.

SUPPORTING YOUTH

Level Two Youth Project

22 years and going strong, this project is most definitely something to be proud of

This project provides a fully comprehensive range of services for children, young people and families. The project base “The Hub” is above Tesco in the heart of the town centre. This provides a safe space for young people to meet and is well resourced to engage young people in meaningful activities to enhance their social and emotional development, as well as just hang out with their friends and have fun!

The entire staffing team at Level Two are passionate and well-equipped to make sure every intervention with a child, young person or family can make a difference or meet a need. Young people tell us it is often just having a trusted adult outside of the family to talk to that has made all the difference to them in making better life choices.

Level Two services include:

• 1-1 mentoring and counselling

• In-School support

• Hub based and outreach sessions

An exciting new Project this year is a joint venture between East Suffolk Council and Level Two Youth Project. The Felixstowe Skate Park needs a revamp. This area and facility is well-used by young people; possibly one of the most used recreational spaces in the town. However, it also has a reputation for being one of the most troubled spaces. East Suffolk Council and Level Two Youth Project are working with young people who use the skate park to try to turn this into a more positive space. We are at the Skatepark on Thursdays from 4pm to 5.30pm.

To find out more about all that Level Two Youth Project offers please contact: Shez Hopkins, Project Manager, shezhopkinslevel2@gmail.com

WHEN PHOTOGRAPHY MEETS FUN!

Felixstowe Lego Adventures

Instagram account. I then met lots of like-minded people online and they gave some great advice on growing my account and improving my Lego photography.

Felixstowe offers so many opportunities to grab fun pictures.

I’m Matt from East Suffolk. I love getting out and about on the coast and now combine that with my hobby, Lego and taking pictures of my adventures!

I sadly lost my father when I was much younger. My parents lived in Norwich and spent their honeymoon in Felixstowe, so it’s lovely for me to be able to head there and visit the beach and town.

I have always been into Lego, since being a child. But during lockdown my collection grew much larger and that’s when I decided to start up my own Lego

Felixstowe Port has given me so many ideas like the one seen on this editions cover.

We came across this very creative profile with some quirky, fun photos of Lego in Felixstowe! Here’s the man behind the idea…

I started to spot opportunities for fun pictures when out on my walks and this lead to some of my favourite pictures.

‘‘

... such as stones, sand and grassland. I definitely want something involving Felixstowe Pier too, it’s a great spot.

I have some more plans for 2023, I have recently acquired a Lego port set which I think will be good to use close to the port and find something fun to capture. I always try and add something that will make someone smile when taking the pictures, it’s about getting into the Lego characters’ world but using the area and background as the story. That’s why Felixstowe has so much to offer!

What I do like about the area is there is so many lovely places to walk and explore. Being able to park down near the fort and walk all the way along, seeing people having a bite to eat, families spotting rabbits, other people swimming in the sea and also exploring all the shops. So I know if I have a few Lego figures in my pocket there’s always an opportunity.

I have so many ideas and my page will be showing Felixstowe off again in the future for sure.

Landguard fort has some great backgrounds, not to mention the different textures of the beach...

Matt Gunn Instagram: @brickandmortarlego

At the Avengers Facility, fillmed in Suffolk’s University of East Anglia (who’d have known!?)

Walking with dinosaurs

Who you gonna call?

FELIXSTOWE ARTS

142 Gallery Supporting Local

We are actually from out in the sticks at Chillesford, near Orford but adore Felixstowe and it’s community of artists. The original team comprised of Toby, Lisa and Drew. We were given the opportunity to use the empty premises at 142 Hamilton Road for a period of 3 months back in January 2019. Being artists, we decided we would simplify the décor to resemble a blank canvas and each in turn get in there and put on an exhibition of our artwork (think pop-up gallery).

As the premises had no history as a gallery we didn’t expect a lot of people through the door. Unwilling and unable to sit and wait for visitors, Lisa decided to use the space as a studio and, whilst exhibiting, worked on some large canvases.

Toby Mayhew and Lisa Berry bringing the arts to life on Felixstowe’s high street! Here they are to tell you how it all started, and their vision for 142 Gallery.

This working whilst exhibiting felt so positive it became a 142 theme.

‘‘

Local Artists

During the time we three exhibited there we actually had a lot of people through the door, a lot of encouragement and also had loads of interest from fellow artists wishing to do the same thing... why not? Not wanting to say no, but also not being natural administrators, we wiggled our way forward.

Our wonderfully supportive landlords saw what was happening, must have liked it, and what started out as 3 months has now become about 3 years.

During these months we had many enquiries by fellow artists as to how they could also use the space. We were motivated to facilitate this and our landlords were supportive, extended their offer of a few months to a full year... and so the community art concept was born.

‘‘

As artists, we appreciate the importance of exhibiting and how hard it can be to find a good space at an affordable price. We appreciate the connections we have made with fellow artists in Felixstowe through running the gallery.

The gallery is rented to artists on a weekly basis and we aim to keep our hire fee minimal and thereby accessible to all artists not just those who can predict they could cover high rental fees with from their sales. This could include artist whose work is not commercial, artist who are starting out exhibiting or seasoned artists wanting to try something different. We do take a percentage of any sales and we use this money to improve the space, like better gallery lighting, good hanging system, etc.

We have encouraged our fellow artists to use 142 as a truly creative space, to treat their exhibition week as an ‘event’ at which they can share something of their working processes and help visitors engage with their art… and to challenge perceptions what a ‘Gallery’ can be.

It is this lovely feeling of connection and community that makes it worthwhile for us and keeps the whole ‘142 thing’ moving forward.

Along the way we also became registered as a community interest company 142ARTCIC.

‘‘

Since being involved with the gallery, we have been moved by how much effort, attention and care the artists put in to presenting their work and making their event as inspiring as it can be.

We are pleased to be inundated with requests from fellow artists to use the space. We have had sculpture, light art, poetry, pottery and paint… the list is long and varied.

Any artist can come and exhibit with us, although we now have more requests than weeks in the year. When applying, our fellow artists need to show that they have a body of work or an idea!... Big enough to fill the space.

Artists exhibiting with us need to promote their own shows but we know that most artists appreciate any help they can get with this.

I want artists to think as I did: ‘Wow, I have a space on the high street for a week! What can I make happen here?’

- Lisa

“Totemic Emblems and Other Paintures” a show by Jim Nind

“Portraits Week”. Toby Mayhew paints fellow artist Tammany Hunt

“Life is” by Lizzie Musson and Billie Ranger

“Wings of Desire” a show by Sian O’Keeffe

“Butley Creek” by Toby Mayhew “Figments Fey 19” by Lisa Berry

We are all very lucky to have Mikaela, who, alongside running her own business ‘Illuminate’, takes time out to be our marketing person. She has created a website for us 142gallery.art and makes an online poster for each show.

Our Gallery

This is done via our website. This usually goes out on a Thursday and includes a feature on the artist that week. Also any other 142 news and previews of what is coming up next. Most days we post on Instagram images from the current show.

Toby Mayhew Co-founder and manager

Toby is a painter of pictures, he likes to paint in order to salve his guilt about allowing himself to be trapped in human form on this planet.

Our Instagram page is therefore a lovely chronological record of what has been happening at 142 Gallery over the weeks and years, Many artists who exhibit with us will be open to doing commissions. We will always try to facilitate connections between buyers and artists.

Shows pass by quickly and if you have seen artwork you are interested in but didn’t get the artists details we will probably be able to put you in touch.

We are now pretty much fully booked through 2023 – though artists can register their interest though the contact form on our website and we will keep their details.

Lisa Berry Co-founder and manager

Lisa likes to play with colour to create abstract visions of the alternate realities which drift into her perception every now and then.

Drew Whitemore Co-Founder of 142

Drew arses about with a small drill, occasionally poking it through a substrate and looking at the holes.

We put out a weekly newsletter, which you can sign up to receive.

‘‘

Caroline is promisingly practical. She cannot resist an art club. A creative painter and drawer, usually of illustrative works, who feels a real excitement for the process of design.

Mikaela is a photographic artist and teacher who creates work inspired by myths & the stories that shape us.

photo: from the show “Taking the Picasso” featuring many different artists

Caroline Burgess Open Exhibition Coordinator

Mikaela Rackham Marketing and Promotion

SUPPORTING FAMILIES

Pushchair Pitstop

Pushchair Pitstop is a volunteer-run, donation-based group located in St. Edmunds Church on Langer Road. Everything we have was given to us for FREE by the public, so therefore, everything we have gets rehomed for FREE! There is absolutely NO criteria to use our service and everyone is welcome with no judgements.

Pushchair Pitstop was started by our very own Reverend Penny Brinkley, backed by Reverend Andrew Dotchin, with a simple vision in mind of helping the local community. Back at the very start, it began with just a couple of boxes and a handful of baby clothes on a table… and today, it has flourished into the successful little charity that it is, now taking up the majority of St. Edmunds Church.

Not only do we house baby clothes but we carry many more items such as buggies, nappies, milk, toys, books, games, blankets, shoes, electricals...and our clothing sizes currently ranges from bump (maternity) to 16 years. As well as helping the public this way, we also hold two events a year; one in the summer and one at Christmas, where we host games, have Tombola stalls, serve hot food and have bouncy castles, etc. for people to come along and enjoy for free. At Christmas, we were fortunate enough to be able to have 110 children come to see Father Christmas and receive a toy and a further 100 gifts sent to children from our wish-list!

Not only is Pushchair Pitstop recognised as a ‘free shop’, but it is also a meeting place and people are welcome to come in and just join us for a cuppa.

Supporting parents and children in the community, here’s Lissa Coates to tell us more about it...

However, we have realised that more so since covid, it has also been an escape for mums and dads just needing some adult conversation.

What you can expect from the Pitstop

Our visitors are advised to take a maximum of 2 bags full a day (excluding larger items) and they rarely ever go away empty handed. It is lovely to hear that people are always full of praise for the Pushchair Pitstop team and what we do, with lots wishing that there were more places like this available.

and of course every single person that donates to us. We hope our visitors will continue to come along and say hello. This year we will have new some new faces too as we plan to keep making the experience better and better! We’re always looking for volunteers to join our fabulous team – so if this is something that you would be interested in, please call Leader Liss on 07803526590.

Keep well, from the Pushchair Pitstop team!

Opening times: Mondays 9am-12pm Wednesdays 9am-12pm Fridays 9am-12pm Alternate weekends10am-2pm Facebook: Pushchair Pitstop

...

Feature photo, from left to right: Felixstowe Mayor, Jules (leader), Dagne (volunteer), Reverend Andrew Dotchin, Kath (volunteer) and Liss (leader).

Volunteers Liss, Jules and Kayleigh

In the last twelve months Pushchair Pitstop has gone from strength to strength...

and will continue to do so with HUGE thanks to our wonderful team of volunteers

Providing Diverse Resources

Listen Online

Have you got a library card? If not, you’re missing out.

To get a library card you just need to prove you live, work or are staying in Suffolk, Norfolk or Essex. If you can’t do that, you can still get an instant card at: https://www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/ borrow/help/joining-the-library.

In the Library

You can borrow books from your local library, but they have so much more than just books. Suffolk Libraries are offering the following services:

• Free Wifi and computer access,

• Free menstrual products,

• Free events and social groups,

• Free support and advice sessions,

• Free books, including our extensive eLibrary,

• Read Online.

With your library card you can borrow eBooks from Overdrive/Libby app. This app will automatically return books after three weeks unless you renew, meaning you never get a late fee. If you prefer magazines or newspapers try the PressReader app.

If you prefer audiobooks then Borrow Box is the app for you. With the power to change the narrators speed and see how long a chapter will take, you can read while you get chores done. You can even set a timer to turn off, so you can listen in bed and fall asleep. Or download the Freegal app to listen to music for free.

Watch Online

Kanopy is the app for TV shows, Films, world cinema and documentaries. There is a great variety to watch that’s not seen on popular streaming services. Suffolk Libraries is a charity. If you don’t use their services we could risk losing this amazing asset to our town. Check out their events, and go visit. We are so lucky to have this amazing service in our town centre.

Opening times:

Monday 10am - 4pm

Tuesday 9am - 5.30pm

Wednesday 9am - 7.30pm

Thursday 9am - 5.30pm

Friday 9am - 5.30pm

Saturday 9am - 5pm

Sunday 10am - 4pm

Crescent Road, Felixstowe, IP11 7BY

T: 01394 330850

E: help@suffolklibraries.co.uk

FB: facebook.com/FelixstoweLibrary

So much more than just a resource centre for books!

The Big Food Blog

Bringing the orient to Felixstowe to our 2023 Big Food Blog - Mmm!

Japanese Noodle Soup

A simple, soothing culinary tonic for any occasion, whether you’re on your tod, or looking to impress friends at dinner.

Ingredients

85-100g package instant ramen noodles, (discard the seasoning packet) 2 cups water

Seasoning

1½ teaspoons vegetarian Better Than Bouillon

1 teaspoon tamari

½ - 1 teaspoon chilli garlic sauce

¼ - ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil ¼ teaspoon powdered garlic ¼ teaspoon onion powder

1-2 tablespoons green onions, diced

Optional

¼ cup or so fried mushrooms ¼ - ½ cup steamed broccoli, bok choy, baby corn, roasted sweet potatoes, etc. Chopped cilantro or basil ¼ cup firm cubed tofu or smoked tofu 1 seaweed snack sheet, crumbled up Method

Cook noodles according to package instructions with the 2 cups of water. Don’t overcook; 2-3 minutes is usually good. The noodles will continue to cook in the bowl. While ramen is cooking add all the seasoning to your soup bowl. Pour the cooked noodles and liquid into a bowl and stir, top with green onions and Enjoy! Add any cooked veggies and or vegan protein you like!

Tempura Shrimp

Ingredients

½ lb shrimp peeled and deveined ¾ cup all-purpose flour ½ cup potato starch 1 large egg ¼ cup vodka chilled in the freezer ¾ cup carbonated water chilled in the fridge

Method

Shrimp: clean the shrimp under running water and remove the heads. To devein the shrimp, pull the vein from the opening of the shrimp where you removed the head. To straighten your shrimp, score very shallow cuts on the belly of the shrimp. (You can also use skewers to straighten the shrimp if you don’t want to score them). Straighten the shrimp on a plate over paper towels to dry the shrimp off.

Tempura Batter: in a heavy-bottomed pot, add about 2 inches of oil from the bottom of the pot. Heat the oil to 350°F degrees.

In a mixing bowl, add the flour and half of potato starch and mix thoroughly. Set aside the other half of potato starch to coat your ingredients right before dipping into the batter. In another bowl, add the egg and mix in the cold vodka. Then add the carbonated water. Carefully, add the wet batter into the mixing bowl and use the chopsticks to mix the batter in swift movements. Try to lift the bowl and move the bowl in round movements while stirring with the chopsticks. Make sure to not

overmix the batter or your tempura will end up chewy. You should have some lumps in your batter. The mixing process should take no longer than one minute.

In a separate bowl, add ¼ cup of potato starch in a shallow bowl. Cover the shrimp in a light layer of potato starch.

Frying shrimp: Holding the shrimp tail, dunk the shrimp into the batter and cover thoroughly. Carefully lower the battered shrimp into the oil. To add extra crispy tendrils of tempura, dip your hand back into the batter and drip small drops of batter onto the frying shrimp.

Turn the shrimp after about one to two minutes. Remove the cooked shrimp from the oil and place them over paper towels on a cooling rack.

Tetsuya Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

1 cup water 2g dashi mix ¼ cup soy sauce ¼ cup mirin

Method

In a small saucepot, add the water over medium-low heat. Add the dashi mix, soy sauce, and mirin. Heat until it boils for one minute and then remove from heat.

Serve in a small sauce dish, beside your freshly fried tempura shrimp and enjoy!

THE STORY OF

LOCAL FRIENDSHIP NETWORK

DiscoverABILITY & A Piña

with Lisa, I discovered that we had at least one thing in common - we both loved a piña colada! A tropical blend of rich coconut cream, white rum and tangy pineapple, serve with an umbrella for kitsch appeal!

I’ve now been with Felixstowe Radio for five years. In this time I have met some incredible people along the way, from all walks of life and from all parts of our broadcast area of Felixstowe, Shotley and Harwich. From politicians to community leaders; from bishops to charities and nobility. All with a story to tell.

The day came when I was having fun talking about listeners’ favourite cocktails. It was at this stage that Lisa Tyte came into my life. During an on-air phone call

sort.

A wonderful platform for anyone living with a disability

A

We had never met but, after a long phone call I discovered that as well as a love of said cocktail, we were both into journalism, particularly the local

Piña Colada

I also discovered that Lisa lives with a disability which, although “disabling”, didn’t affect her ability to work.

Putting our heads together, we came up with a weekly 10 minute slot on Felixstowe Radio where we would discuss this world of disability, of which I had zero knowledge. Together we discussed topic after topic, featuring disabilities, differences and carers. It became clear that 10 minutes a week was nowhere near enough. Felixstowe Radio were keen to give us an hour programme each Wednesday morning from 10am. Naturally, we wanted to show that barriers and attitudes can be smashed by creative working. Consequently, we presented a “live” radio programme with

both Lisa and I working separately from our own homes.

Our “target” audience was everyone! People living with any form of disability, whether visible or not. People who were carers, whether official or not. I was also keen to educate people like myself, who had little or no knowledge.

Week in, week out, we have guests telling their stories. Naturally we feature any issues, but we are keen to celebrate those positive moments when “normality” is achieved. People living with a disability don’t want special treatment, quite the opposite. The want and deserve “normality”. They want to be treated the same, and have similar access in shops, restaurants, pavements and face-to face. How do we get our guests?

From people like you telling us your stories. It’s as simple as that. If you have a story to tell that you think would be interesting to our DiscoverABILITY listeners, find us primarily on Facebook, or contact either Lisa or me directly.

Remember, Disability is more than a special toilet and a wheelchair ramp!

Rob Dunger

Presenter / Producer www.robdunger.co.uk www.felixstoweradio.org.uk Mobile: 07900 991499

Feature image: Lisa with Rob on Felixstowe beach.

Our ethos is to break down barriers, remove stigma and to shatter those stereotypes.

‘‘

An Interview with Melanie Green

Hi Melanie! Tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m Melanie (Mel to newly introduced people because when I’m nervous I trip over my LLLLLs!) and I live in Felixstowe. I’ve been here since I was three, so I think I can be classed as a local now! I went to Deben High School, but don’t hold that against me Orwellians! I live with my husband Graham (Big G) and we have three grown up children between us – Lauren, Kieron and Kirstie. I have worn many ‘hats’ during my working life, from working in a bank and a shipping office to hairdressing and mental health social work, but that was only for a couple of months before I knew it wasn’t for me. I am now 52 and a week

after my 48th birthday I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. This came as a complete shock, as I am sure it does to most people, but even more so for me because a psychic once told me I would never get cancer – clearly due a refund!

Clearly! How did you find out you had it?

In spring 2018, my daughter had just bought a flat and while we were cleaning it, I got my foot caught in the cord of a venetian blind. Imagine Eddie the Eagle flying through the air but ending with a face plant on the floor and that was me! Through tears and laughter, I exclaimed, ‘I think I’ve just

LOCAL AUTHOR

popped my boob’ and my knees started to swell before our eyes. A few days later I was lying in bed with very sore knees and wondering if I had also bruised my boob, and that is when I found a large round lump at the bottom of my right boob. Luckily, I was checking while I was lying down as even though the lump was large, I couldn’t feel it standing up – due to being rather well endowed! At this point I thought it must be as a result of the fall, some sort of internal bruise, but when it was still there a week or so later, I thought I should get it checked. The GP referred me to the breast clinic at Ipswich Hospital, where I had a mammogram and an ultrasound scan. During the scan, they took a biopsy of the lump and I think at this point the realisation, that it may not just be a bruise, started to hit. The tears flowed extensively and the poor nurse nearly had a broken hand from my excessive squeezing! Then a very long two-week wait for the results. It was a very surreal time.

not to think too far ahead. Don’t Google your diagnosis – ask your medical team. There is a lot of support out there, take advantage of it.

My diagnosis was locally advanced grade 3 invasive ductal breast cancer (ER+ and HER2+ which means it was hormone fed) –basically no idea what most of those words mean, still!

Do you have any advice for anyone who is going through cancer or has someone they know going through it?

It is a really difficult to give advice as everyone’s experience is different, even if the cancer and treatment is the same. I think the main thing I’d say is to take each day, hour and minute as it comes and try

Of course, it’s helpful to think positivelyl it won’t alter the prognosis, but it will help you get through the bad days, and unfortunately you will have them. I tried to find the funny whenever I could. Inappropriate, dark humour was the way we coped as a family. As my daughter says “It’s not kicking a woman when she’s down. It’s jokingly kicking her all the time and not stopping when she’s down.” On the night I told her and my son, her first comment was, “You will look like Phil Mitchell” – er no, I’ll be Grant, the better looking one… Big G can be Phil. And then when I lost my hair, she photoshopped us on to an image, along with our ‘mum’ Peggy outside the Queen Vic!

Put yourself first. Learn to say no, learn to accept help – you really don’t need to do this alone. Try to stay active, both physically (even if that’s only walking around the garden) and emotionally, and how about trying to journal your thoughts? Don’t expect life to get back to normal the minute you finish treatment. I’m afraid you need to find your new normal. Listen to your body, if it is tired then rest! And unfortunately, the fear is always there that it may come back but don’t let it take over and consume you. Allow the thoughts sometimes, don’t always dismiss them, but don’t allow them to settle and take root.

Family and friends struggle knowing what to say, what to do, and are usually

I thought the ‘not knowing’ was the worst thing in the world – until I did know!

‘‘

But there is no right or wrong way to ‘do’ cancer, there is just your way.

‘‘

worried about getting it wrong. Even though I had been through it, I still had no idea what to say when my husband was diagnosed with lymphoma. At that point I followed my own advice and said, “I have no idea what to say”. I don’t have a list of what to say, but there are definitely things you should not say to someone who has newly been diagnosed:

• “I can empathise with you as my mum had breast cancer but she is terminal now as she has a secondary brain tumour.”

• “My mum/my best friend/my aunt survived after having breast cancer three times.”

These are just a couple of things that were said to me just after my diagnosis and before my first chemotherapy session. I know they were said with compassion, but really not what I needed to hear when I was just starting out on my journey with cancer!

Did your diagnosis catalyse your passion to write or have you always been a writer?

My love of writing only really started relatively recently. In about 2016 I started a blog about general life happenings but it soon fizzled out. So, it wasn’t until my diagnosis, when I needed to release my emotions somehow, that I start ed another blog.

But even if I started them, I certainly only filled out the first few weeks! I wasn’t even much of a story writer at school – one stands out in my memory when I tried to be smart and wrote a rather blue/rude one and the English teacher made me stand up in front of the whole class to read it – not trying to embarrass me at all… mortified and not feeling so smart or smug! Having got very bored of hairdressing, I went to the University of East Anglia and completed a psychology degree in my 40s. I obviously had to do a lot of writing then, but academic writing is a whole different ball game. When I write now, and back when I wrote in my blogs, I just let the words pour out of me. I don’t edit as I go, so it is a stream of consciousness – and a real glimpse as to how my mind works! I love that my words seem to touch people’s hearts and it’s worth the embarrassment I sometimes feel by sharing my innermost feelings, thoughts and insecurities.

That sounds devestating. Can you tell us how this news encouraged your blogs during your recovery?

Writing the blogs throughout my treatment gave me a place to let it all out, to vent –the fear, the disbelief, the confusion, as well as the funny bits, the weird and wonderful ‘joys’ that come hand in hand with a cancer diagnosis. I wrote them primarily for me but as I really knew nothing about cancer and its treatment, I decided to share them in the hope that friends and family may learn along with me. I received so much positive feedback, people really were learning things and gaining awareness of what cancer could be like, and how you definitely do not go back to ‘normal’ the minute you finish treatment – which is honestly the way I thought before my diagnosis. These blogs were the foundation of my book, But Seriously, Who Knew?

Post recovery, do you still blog?

No, I don’t anymore. I may get back into it at some point but I’m concentrating on the book at the moment and new ideas for future projects are constantly whirring around my head – apparently writing is addictive, who knew?

I’ve never been a diary keeper although I have bought many beautiful ones over the years with the intention of being the next Bridget Jones!

How did your book, “But Seriously, Who Knew?” help with your journey?

I had several people tell me I should turn my blogs in to a book. But just because you can write a book, doesn’t mean you should – or that anyone would want to read it. I still feel a little silly when I say I’ve written a book! But one of the main things I try to do now is push myself outside of my comfort zone, do things that make me feel a little scared, but also do things that excite me and keep my brain active, and so ta-dah – the book was written!

During my treatment, the last thing I wanted to do was continuously talk about cancer, it’s exhausting. There were times that we clearly had to, but the rest of the time I wanted to talk about normal stuff. So, writing helped me process all of the emotions without burdening my family and friends.

still here – spoiler alert… the story has a happy ending!

Cancer can be a very lonely place, even with so many people buzzing around checking in with you, the constant hospital visits, tests etc. Hopefully sharing my story in But Seriously, Who Knew? will help someone newly diagnosed to know that they are not alone, that someone can relate, that all being well, there is life after cancer.

Where can we buy your book? But Seriously, Who Knew? is available through my website or on Amazon, and from some local bookstores.

What are your plans for the future?

Writing more books. I have just published a journal, My Cancer Journal: But Seriously, Who Knew? for people diagnosed with cancer, so they have somewhere to express their feelings. And then maybe a fictional book or a travel book… we are making the most of life and travelling whenever we can! I know that life can throw many curve balls, as I have other health concerns, so I am trying not to let them dictate my future. After all what will be will be, so for now it is one day, one holiday, at a time!

If you could go back in time, what advice would you tell your younger self?

I think finding an avenue to allow this release is vital because holding in such emotions and fears can be so dangerous for your mental health. A colleague of mine, who was diagnosed a couple of months before me, used her love of art to keep track of her treatment/meds/ emotions and she created an amazing collage by the end of it.

Writing the book has been a ‘journey’. Revisiting the blog posts, adding extra snippets and other life chaos in, has been quite emotional. But it has reminded me how difficult my side effects were, how strange, actually how horrendous – but also how flipping amazing it is that I am

We get so bogged down with daily stresses, worrying about the small stuff that in the grand scheme of things do not matter, that we forget to appreciate where we are, what we have. I wish I had appreciated the body I had and not been on a constant fad diet. I look back at photos of my 16-year-old self and think how amazing I looked – yes, I had a bum, thighs and big boobs but what I would give to have that figure now! I would tell her that she is strong and although social anxiety practically kills her, she will find ways to navigate this and not let it hinder her (most of the time). And stop trying to be a people-pleaser (hands up, still definitely a thing) and to not be afraid to say no, to not let people treat her with disrespect. But mostly I’d tell her to just love Mel, have a ball and know that it will be ok in the end.

Mel melaniegreenauthor.co.uk

‘‘I wanted to protect them from how dreadful I was feeling, how scared

I was, how I actually thought I wouldn’t be here in a year’s time.

Felixstowe: a Kiting Hotspot

A dynamic duo gracing the seafront with their wonderfully giant inflatable kite creatures!

Jonny and Louise (aka RedKite Crew) can often be seeing flying their extraordinary show kites at the Dip. From giant octupi to astronauts and teddy bears, these wonderfully glorius creatures come to life high in Felixstowe’s skies. Here’s Jonny to tell us their passion for kite flying and how it all began: Kiting is in my blood. From those heady days when summers were long, hot and seemingly never-ending I spent many a

day with my father out flying together. We’d each make a kite from an old sheet and bamboo canes, and usually we’d do battles trying to get each one higher into the sky than the other.

The addiction took hold immediately, and wherever I went a kite was never far away. From single strings to dual (two lines) and quad (four lines), I flew them all. Stunt kites, power kites and even flying works of art. The problem was that the bigger they became, the harder it was to find suitable places to fly, and little did I know where this would end up (hint: coastal flying is always the best).

Things slowed down a little when the children were growing up as there was never much time to kite, but the bug never left.

Of course, finding the right location to fly even bigger kites creates more of a challenge. Being based just north of Colchester, we always head towards the East Coast and fly in areas like Southwold, Aldeburgh, Walton-on-the-Naze, Frintonon-Sea, East Mersea and of course Felixstowe, which is our favourite location and where we can often be found flying up on the cliffs at Brackenbury.

Visitors and local residents will be familiar with our multiple giant octopi, (the largest of which is 32 metres long), a huge teddy bear, a very large sloth and even the Pink Panther to name but a few. Whilst flying we meet so many friendly people, some just happen upon us, and some even come along if they know we are flying (I know, amazing right?). It’s something we really enjoy.

People chat to us for hours, and we get all kinds of questions from, “How big?”, “How much?” and our favourite of all, “Why do we do it?” Our answer is always, “Look around, see how happy they make people.”

We always just keep a cautious eye to ensure they are never at risk.

I know people think we are a little crazy, but hey, isn’t that better than being just plain normal? I can tell you, flying a giant stack of kites that stretch way up into the sky is massively good for the soul, especially when you have a crowd of people mesmerised.

Coming back to why we like Felixstowe so much, aside from the lovely people we meet, kites depend on clean wind of course and if we can catch a good East North Easterly blow at Brackenbury, then we have something close to “kiting nirvana” and of course we have the best views and a fish and chip supper to look forward to once the dreaded packing up is done.

The kites really do seem to make people happy. We love to see the children having fun around them.

‘‘

Louise and I seem to have built a large and ever-growing collection of ‘show’ kites. These are giant inflatable kites that usually resemble sea creatures, animals and even spacemen.

...and not only have we made friends from all over the world, but we are also often invited to fly at great locations.

Last year we went to a kite festival on the humongous beach at St. Annes on Sea in the Northwest of England and later we visited the Netherlands to fly with Holland Kite Team. Time is the problem as ever, especially with some invitations coming in from as far away as America.

We are active members of the East Anglian Kite Flyers Club, who are a super group of people and with them we often

put on kite displays at fun days, carnivals, and various other outdoor events across the region. The diary is filling up but please come and talk to us if you would like us to put on a display or contact the club directly on the following link, where you can also see a list of events.

With the dire situation that our Ukrainian kiting friends are in, we are ever conscious of how lucky we are to be able to fly with freedom. The motto of kite flyers worldwide is: ONE SKY, ONE WORLD. Never has this phrase been more meaningful.

We wish you all well, and please come spend some time with us at Brackenbury or together with the East Anglian Kite Flyers. Jonny & Louise (AKA RedKite Crew) instagram.com/redkitecrew facebook.com/redkitecrew

Show kiting has taken our kite friendships and experiences up a serious level...

Book Review

A book review of The Paris Apartment

by Lucy Foley

Full of intrigue, “The Paris Apartment” by Lucy Foley takes you on a journey of suspense with an eclectic group of characters who rotate in the narrator role. And, just when you think you have it all figured out, it takes another twist.

When Jess leaves England in a hurry with basically no money in her pocket, she turns to her half-brother Ben, an investigative reporter now living in Paris, to give her shelter. He agrees, albeit reluctantly, but when she shows up, he is nowhere to be found.

After picking the locks, a skill she developed early in life, she wanders around Ben’s apartment with a sense of bafflement. How could he afford such an extravagant place to live, and in this very expensive part of town? It’s not like he makes a lot of money, and they don’t have any parents to turn to for help.

Although the apartment is beautiful, the building itself gives off an ominous vibe. The caretaker hovers about in the shadows, always listening, and its occupants seem to be hiding a fair share of secrets. But, do any of these secrets have to do with her brother’s disappearance? Or, is he missing because he stumbled upon some outside information that put him in danger?

As Jess starts doing some investigating of her own, she stumbles upon a hidden

stairway that let’s her peek into the neighbors privates lives, and soon realises things are not what they seem. She also starts to believe that she has put herself in the path of a ruthless individual.

A New York Times best-selling author, Lucy Foley has written five novels including “The Guest List” and “The Hunting Party.” After studying English literature at Durham University and the University College of London, and working for several years in the publishing industry, she now lives in London and enjoys writing tales of fiction.

Written by Susan Baldani author of articles about small town life, décor, books and food. suebaldani@yahoo.com www.mywritingwall.com Twitter @mywritingwall

Turning Around a Nightmare

Meet Hagar, a lovely local biker we met during a walk down the docks. Though his story was a living nightmare, he turned things around. Here he is to tell you the tale...

It started one Saturday afternoon in January 2018. I’d been out on my motorbike in Felixstowe and was on the way back home when I got hit by a car that failed to give way.

Everything went still, the stillness afore the storm.

The consequences of the accident were not small... all because a driver near the Felixstowe Leisure Centre was distracted and didn’t give way. Due to the severity of my injuries I eventually wound up in Addenbrookes via Ipswich Hospital after the East Anglian Air Ambulance amongst others attended to me at the road side. I was blissfully unaware of how serious my condition was... it was life-changing to say the least.

My right arm had such a severe gravel rash and my leg and foot were in such a state, they couldn’t be saved. As a keen biker, the nightmare was beyond description. From then on, in a mere blink of an eye, everything changed.

A LOCAL MAN’S JOURNEY

Part of my leg was removed, my partner left me resulting in me becoming homeless, nearly losing my job, my mind and my independence.

With almost four years of stress where my life was in the hands of others, I wasn’t able to move on.

steed has been modified and has even gone on to help out with the East Anglian Air Ambulance through events and voluntary work. The East Anglian Air Ambulance were truly amazing at helping me on the day of my accident and I couldn’t thank them enough.

It riles me when I see people speeding, especially in built up areas or using/looking at wretched mobile phones when behind the wheel even when stationary as they have not got a clue what’s going on around them.

Firstly, though the accident cost me my relationship, in hindsight was a good thing! Secondly, so many people cared for and assisted me, when at times it was just all too much. I had what seemed to be a lot of people around me which was strange as I’m very much a loner, an independent one at that. A popular one as well so it transpired!

Since my leg was amputated, I’ve had a fantastic prosthetic which enables me to “get back on the bike”! This wonderful medical extension of me has allowed me to still ride - infact, I still ride the same bike that was involved in the collision! My trusty

When I met Mandeep, the editor of this lovely magazine, we struck up a conversation while her nephew was checking out my motorbike down by the docks. She listened to my experience and asked me to write my story to raise awareness on the urgent need for road safety and mobile phone use while driving. So here I am.

My journey has been a tough one, but I am now getting on with life with my new prosthetic. I’m so happy it’s given me the ability to continue riding and I hope that now I’ve lived to tell the tale, this story will help someone someday.

Blessed be and speak soon, Hagar

But with all said and done, my journey began and surprising positivity came out of the it all.

A Yoga Journey with Kirsty Martin

Does this sound familiar?

Despite one of the most popular reasons for people starting a yoga practice, it is also one of the most common things I hear that puts people off.

Thinking you need to be flexible to begin your yoga journey is similar to thinking you’re too hungry to eat or too dirty to take a shower.

My yoga journey started due to a desire

to improve my flexibility, I would practice yoga at home or on my visits to the gym.

I played around with it for a while, but I wasn’t open to yoga, just the physical (asana) practice. Asana is just one element of yoga but is the most significant here in getting people started.

Eventually, I connected with a teacher who I felt comfortable with and for the first time I was open to the full yoga practice including breath work (pranayama), and meditation. It changed my perspective on why I felt the need to always be finding the most physically demanding

“I can’t do yoga!” “I’m not flexible enough!”

With a desire to improve her own flexiblity, this local lass took her journey a step further and became a fully qualified yoga teacher!

movements and was so quick to dismiss anything else, I started to realise how much yoga can offer.

It was this part of my journey that made me appreciate the amazing mental health benefits yoga has to offer. I experienced mental health challenges over a decade ago and was fortunate enough to be offered support which involved me going through cognitive behavioural therapy. When I delved into yoga a little deeper several years later I started to see a lot of similarities between our ‘modern’ western approach and what the ancient yogis had implemented thousands of years ago! It was at this point that I decided that I wanted to explore becoming a yoga teacher.

For me, yoga is about the ability to gain strength, and flexibility, and an opportunity

to become more mindful and start to build a stronger relationship with ourselves.

If you’re thinking of starting a yoga practice but have been put off by believing you’re not flexible enough, I encourage you to not listen to that voice and check out some of the benefits yoga may offer:

• Increased flexibility • Reduced stress • Reduced inflammation • Relieved anxiety • Improved chronic pain • Improved quality of life

More scientific studies are being taken confirming the array of benefits, whether you require scientific proof or not one thing is clear and that is there are good things that can come from yoga.

I hope you find your feet on your own yoga journey.

Kirsty kirstynicoleyoga.com

Insta: @kirstynicoleyoga

FB: kirstynicoleyoga

While I have seen a lot of physical improvements since starting my yoga journey, the biggest change I’ve noticed is my attitude and ability to be comfortable in the stillness.

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The Felixstowe Games

Having launched in 2022, The Felixstowe Games is the very first fitness competition in town. Here’s more on what to expect for 2023.

This is an event for anyone to get involved in whether to participate as an athlete, be a volunteer on the day or spectate and cheer the fellow athletes on.

The Felixstowe Games is a functional fitness competition using all aspects of fitness within challenging set workouts. It is designed for the fitness enthusiasts to showcase their hard work and to enjoy the competition where you can push yourself and walk away from the day with a great sense of achievement.

Our first competition was in August 2022 at Superhero Fitness in Trimley St. Martin. It took place outdoors where music was played during the workouts, a hog roast was included for all participants as well as a “Felixstowe Games” t-shirt to wear with pride. The top 3 teams received prizes with the winners declared the ‘FITTEST in FELIXSTOWE 2022’!

Through this journey, we see more people within these supportive groups and environments challenge themselves to partake in a competition to push themselves out of their comfort zones to help them grow as a person and add to their life experience.

Fitness is a major part of leading a satisfying, healthy lifestyle by enabling us to physically carry out daily tasks, move better and improve long-term health by helping to prevent health issues whether it is physically, mentally or emotionally. This improves our social wellbeing by developing new connections and committing to fitness as it is non-negotiable for a healthy lifestyle.

“The Felixstowe Games” are offering a platform for people to come together through fitness and challenge themselves whilst having fun and making friends.

The fitness event has been designed so you can see the movement standards on our social media platforms. There you can see if you are able to perform the movement requirements to compete.

In 2023 we plan to have the second event. To stay updated on news of the games, keep your eye on our website or The Felixstowe Games social media pages:

Liam, The Felixstowe Games @thefelixstowegames

PHONE:

Sarah Jane Goes Waist Deep

Going waist deep was just the start of Sarah’s venture to go all-in with Swimscapes! Here’s her story...

One evening I found myself waist deep in the sea, just off “The Dip”, standing on the walls of a Roman Fort. The sun was setting, casting a magnificent glow across the gently rippling water. It was an evening of connection with friends, with history, with nature. It is a memory I will treasure.

Four years ago I found myself poolside, shivering with the cold and tearful at the thought of taking my turn to try to swim a full length of “grown up front crawl” - face in and everything! Needless to say I choked and sobbed my way though a few meters before returning to my beloved face up breaststroke. Also a vivid memory, but not one I’d like to repeat!

Two very different experiences, but both equally important in my journey as an enthusiastic hobbyist sea swimmer. I was lucky, five years ago, to manage to bag myself a space on the Great East Swim Outreach Programme. As a woman approaching her “middle years”, I was

LOCAL PERSON

very conscious that I had become quite inactive. That I should move more. I was bombarded, daily, by media messaging about staying fit and healthy, about losing weight, about staying young. I thought I was a competent swimmer, albeit one who hadn’t put her face in the water for about fifteen years.

the Ice Milers and the super fit triathletes. But what I have found is a collection of supportive, encouraging and accepting individuals who all share a joy for the sea.

I have officially become a Felixstowe-phile and now couldn’t imagine a life without throwing myself into the cold, and not-socold-at-the-moment, North Sea.

If you'd like to get involved I would suggest initially checking out Swimscapes on a Saturday morning, a few bays south of the Fludyers.

With a sense of trepidation I persuaded a few friends to apply for the Outreach Programme with me. It was time for some decisive action! I owe a lot to that 12 weeks of training. It was traumatic, challenging and ultimately fulfilling - changing the course of my life. I no longer allow myself to be bothered by the media messaging. I haven’t lost weight. I don’t look younger. But I might be a bit healthier; a bit more full of joy.

That is all because of the wonderful community of sea swimmers that I found, hiding in plain sight in Felixstowe. Every Saturday morning, and probably most mornings in the summer season, you will see a flotilla of colourful swimming hats and tow floats bobbing along the coast of Felixstowe. It really is a glorious sight. We are so fortunate to have such a clean, safe coast to enjoy.

You will find that the open water community is a broad church. As I’ve said, I classify myself as a hobbyist. I enjoy the social element - the faffing around on the prom pre and post swim. The shared stories. The shared cake. The connection with the vastness of the sea. Others are there for training. For fitness. To improve their mental health. What I have found though, is everyone is welcome. Initially I was nervous and in awe of the Channel Swimmers,

A word of caution, please don’t go alone to find the Fort! It was a super low tide with good wave conditions and I was guided by a local expert. However, if you are curious come and join the swimming community and maybe one day the conditions will be right for you too to enjoy this experience.

I share my enthusiasm for all things Felixstowe and sea on Instagram, so do follow me as you might find some helpful tips for your own sea-swimming ventures.

Sarah

Jane Instagram: @sjbstar

More about Swimscapes

Felixstowe Swimscapes is an informal, welcoming, supportive and inclusive seaswimming group. Here they are to tell you all about what they do and how you can get involved!

We started in 2012, somewhat connected to the London Olympics ‘sportmaker’ initiative, but more just to give people who

I was up for the challenge of training to swim a mile in open water.

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wanted to open water swim a friendly focal point.

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The name Swimscapes was intended to suggest the idea of ‘escaping’ through swimming and also the beauty of the natural environment that we immerse ourselves in. At the first swim on May Bank Holiday 2012 there were about 10 swimmers and a vuvuzela. Ten years later, now with 2000 facebook members, there were around 80 at the May 2022 season opener, and the same vuvuzela still sounded!

Felixstowe is ideal for sea swimming. The long promenade makes access easy, the beach doesn’t slope too steeply or too gradually, and the tide flows parallel to the shore and not too strongly, due to

Felixstowe’s broad ‘bay’ location. The many landmarks along the prom, such as the Spa, Town Hall, Pier and Mannings, all help make it a great place for everyone from casual dippers to Channel swimmers (we have ‘em all!) to come and do their thing, free of judgement, often with cake. Our waters are also mercifully light on jellyfish and other nasties, and while our sea isn’t the clearest, the water quality is officially ‘excellent’, enabling Felixstowe to fly a Blue Flag since 2020.

With the rapid growth in interest in outdoor swimming during the Covid lockdowns when pools were closed, the numbers of open water swimmers has rocketed, especially at Felixstowe, but we have retained our relaxed informal approach. People swim throughout the year now and at all times of day. But we have retained our popular original Saturday morning (10am) and summer Monday evening (6pm) meet times at ‘The Bay’ Undercliff Road East, IP11 7LS, so newcomers know where and when to come and join in. There are no forms to sign or fees to pay (though we do sell very nice silicone Swimscapes caps in four different colours!) - just make sure to introduce yourself (by name!) to a fellow-swimmer and join the community!

Seamus Bennett

Felixstowe Swimscapes Open Water Swimming

FB: @FelixstoweSwimscapes

Instagram: @swimscapers

Seamus set the group up with his friend Alice Palmer. The two were lifeguards together and are lifelong Felixstowe sea swimmers.

Orwell Decorative And Fine Arts Society

Are you interested in the history and inspiration behind art and would like to learn more? We may well be the society for you. Our talks are held on the first Wednesday of each month and are given by professional guest speakers selected by us. The atmosphere is relaxed, the subjects are varied.

1st February 2023

Encounters with the Real Richard the Third.

1st March 2023

Oak Trees, Sailing Boats, the Royal Navy and the Boatyards of the East coast.

5th April 2023

Dismantling the Devil’s Acre - Slums that shamed Victorian London.

3rd May 2023

The Blue Hour: Painting the North.

7th June 2023

West End Winners - The Rise of the British Musical from Noël Coward to Lionel Bart.

The meetings start at 2pm and last about an hour. Tea and coffee are available from 1.30-2pm. We always welcome new people, but please ring Wendy Robbins on 01394 823807 before the day as exceptionally popular lectures have limited spaces. For the latest events and news please visit: www.orwelldfas.org.uk

The Women Behind, “I Can Run!”

We are the I Can Run Club – and if you are looking for a women-only running group we would love to welcome you.

I Can Run is a volunteer-led not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) with a group in Felixstowe, as well as Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich. Founded over six years ago by local woman

Emma Talbot, we’re a unique womenonly running group. We believe that all women - regardless of their size, shape, age, ability or background should have the opportunity to learn to run and to progress with like-minded women.

Our members range from ultramarathon runners to those who come and join us for a walk once a week –with every level of fitness and running

ability in between. From 18 years to 80 years, we welcome all women. Our founder, Emma, was fed up with repeatedly trying the Couch to 5k approach and feeling like a failure. Determined to find a way to build her fitness and start to run, she looked for alternatives and read about Jeff Galloway. Jeff, an American Olympian, devised a walk-run technique, which is popularly known as “jeffing”. It helps to protect your body from injury and is a great way to build up fitness. We believe that everyone can run and using “jeffing” we hold regular beginner courses in Suffolk. At the end of our six-week course beginners course, our ladies are “jeffing” for 40 minutes by gradually building up to 30 seconds of running alternating with

30 seconds of walking. Many of our longstanding members have continued to use this approach to complete Park Runs, 10kms and even marathons.

with a Beginners course. We meet at the prom at 6:45pm on a Thursday evening. All we ask from you is to come along for six weeks and we promise you won’t regret it. You can read some of our members’ stories and what attending the Beginners Group has meant for them on our website.

If you already feel confident running, but would like some company, a reason to get out every week or would just like to run with a group of great women, come and join us on a Thursday evening.

Whether you have never tried running before, or looking to return to running after a break, come and try our Beginners’ course. And don’t worry about coming by yourself (most of our ladies come alone) or being nervous – our class leaders all joined us feeling the same way, and now lead the beginners’ classes! It’s amazing how confidence increases along with your running skills!

We are SO EXCITED to announce that we have our next Beginners’ courses starting in Felixstowe, Ipswich, and Bury St Edmunds. Thanks to Community Action Suffolk we can give them to you FOR FREE! Our next beginners in Felixstowe starts on 12th January. You can click here to find out details and register: https://www.icanrunclub.co.uk/beginners

Free of charge, and run by our volunteers – who are ladies just like you who started

Our wonderful volunteers organise weekly runs for women to get together and run, or walk, safely. We love our ICR Felixstowe group. The prom is wonderful in the summer with a cooling breeze, and so pretty in the winter with the fairy lights and changing colours on the Pier cheering us on. We like to make the most of our wonderful town which means our runs can include ice cream, a dip in the sea to cool down, and a run around the high street to enjoy the Christmas lights.

Your membership fee of £10 allows you to book as many weekly runs as you would like – across all three of our locations.

Our passion is to provide a safe, comfortable space to get active. And we believe there is no better way to do that than when enjoying the Suffolk skies and coastal views at Felixstowe. We can guarantee fun, friendship and possibly a new obsession with running leggings!

If you want to know more you can sign up for our newsletter via our website or join our Facebook group: icanrunclub.co.uk facebook.com/groups/697538653758648

Whether you are a confident, experienced runner, or currently sitting on the sofa wondering if it is for you, we have the answer!

IN THE Garden

Felixstowe’s gardening twins share their expert knowledge and experience

Miss Ellen Willmott, born in August 1858, of Warley Place in Essex also had properties near Aix-les-Bains in France and Ventimiglia in Italy. She funded plant hunting expeditions to China and the Middle East and had over 60 plants named after her, including Ceratostigma willmottianum and Rosa willmottiae. The silvery spikey sea holly Eryngium gigantum is also known as Miss Willmott’s ghost because of its appearance at dusk. Eryngiums thrive in dry conditions and Eryngium bourgatii Picos Blue is a popular variety. Echinacea, the coneflower with pink petals and Knautia Macedonia with crimson pompoms are ideal for meadow planting. Their long flowering season attract bees and insects as do Scabiosa Butterfly Blue, Cephalaria gigantea, a tall scabious with yellow flowers, and Astrantias with white, pink or magenta flowers are popular perennials as are the blue globe-shaped flowerheads of Echinops (see photo) that has thistle-like leaves. These plants will set seed and can also be divided after a few years. Climbers are particularly good for a small garden. Clematis viticella Etoile Violette is an excellent climber with large deep purple flowers in summer. The evergreen cartmanii Avalanche has white fragrant

flowers in spring and is an alternative to the vigorous Armandii with its large leaves and white scented flowers. Clematis Texensis Gravetye Beauty has attractive red trumpet-shaped flowers in July to October and is happy to scramble among other plants.

Clematis Pixie produces a mass of small green-white flowers in spring which can be planted in a tall pot as it has a trailing habit. Diminutive Clematis Little Lemons, a hybrid of Clematis tangutica, has yellow bell-shaped flowers and grows to one or two feet. Clematis prefer sheltered positions in sun or part shade. Plant deep so the root ball is two inches below the surface and support with canes. The roots like cool conditions and prune according to variety type.

Parthenocissus tricuspidate (Boston Ivy) and Parthenocissus quinquefolia (Virginia Creeper) are both vigorous climbers providing good autumn colour when set against a wall. Hard prune in winter removing unwanted stems that have selfrooted. Winter flowering jasmines and

honeysuckles need pruning after flowering. Trachelospermum (Star Jasmine) and summer flowering honeysuckles should also be pruned after flowering. Cornus Mas has pretty fluffy yellow flowers in early spring appearing on leafless branches. This dogwood is ideal for a middle-sized garden when grown as a tree or it can be grown as a shrub. It differs from Cornus Midwinter Fire or Firecrest that are grown for their coloured stems which are cut to the ground in February/March to ensure a bright display each winter.

The crimson autumn leaves of Euonymus planipes or Euonymus alatus provide the perfect backdrop to large clump forming grasses that are suited to coastal gardens with its free draining soil.

There is a wide range of different types of ornamental grass – Miscanthus, Pennisetum, Stipa gigantea has golden stems with very tall flowers like wild oats, Stipa tenuissima has fluffy feathery seedheads. The pheasant grass Calamagrostis Karl Foerster is a non-

seeding variety has a tall narrow habit and purplish flowers in June that turn white in winter. Calamagrostis Overdam is variegated and slightly shorter. Deciduous grasses need a tidy in winter and cut back in spring when the new shoots appear.

Shade-loving Hakonechloa macra (Japanese forest grass) has shorter flat blades in late March with flowerheads in summer but rarely sets seed. Small and compact Festuca Elijah Blue and Carex Prairie with green stems tipped orange should be raked or combed to remove dead parts in spring. Many ornamental grasses can be divided in spring.

Happy gardening in 2023.

Heather & Vivian Pratt 01394 283976

t.wins@hotmail.co.uk

History FELIXSTOWE

Pier Pavillion gardens. A popular spot for many decades. This card was issued in 1936 with a ‘one penny’ stamp

Credit: Thank you to Justin Grimwood for providing these photos from his personal collection of postcards.

TWO SISTERS ART CENTRE

The Pocket Venue Punching Above

How often do you read of a new arts centre opening in Felixstowe? Not very often it must be said until Two Sisters

Arts Centre opened in April 2019.

In the now redundant church of St. Marys in Trimley, Two Sisters Art Centre the culmination of my 20-year dream to create a dedicated performance space for local artists, first class out of town musicians and small touring productions to serve this creative part of the Suffolk Coast.

Of course in hindsight it wasn’t great timing as we were forced to close again in March 2020 due to a certain pandemic and since then life in the entertainment industry has been a little hit and miss to say the least. But in spite of all the challenges we are still here, going from strength to strength and I have just renegotiated a new five-year lease – so that sets us fair till 2028!

Covering all genres of performing arts there are events every week from March –December including Friday Night jazz, folk sessions, classical music concerts, drama, poetry, comedy and film.

area.

We are a platform for local visual and performing arts as well touring companies and musicians from outside the

‘‘

Above it’s Weight

We have hosted award-winning West End actors and jazz groups straight from Ronnie Scotts in London as well as local folk and jazz legends and local drama companies such as Eastern Angles and Black & White Productions.

We have also established Two Sisters as the go-to venue for local events including hosting Felixstowe Book Festival, WAMFest and Felixstowe Maritime Festival this year.

We also facilitate rehearsal space and host regular meetings of Felixstowe Cafe Poets and Folk & Roots who both meet monthly for open mic sessions. But it wasn’t all plain sailing. It took three years of dedicated effort from the initial discovery that the diocese was planning to close St. Marys, to getting permissions and licenses, public consultations and officially deconsecrating the building as a church to creating the warm,

‘‘

comfortable space suitable for purpose that we have today.

All that was achieved with the help of a dedicated body of volunteers who painted and decorated and cleaned and polished as a custom-made bar was installed, comfortable chairs purchased, a stage built and a green room created.

The venue is flexible and can hold 70 theatre style or 55 cabaret style. We even have a car park opposite at Great Street Farm courtesy of Bidwells.

During the pandemic we were fortunate to get the expertise of local technician Stuart Brindle, on furlough from his usual busy schedule in film and theatre, who installed an up-to-the-minute lighting rig and sound desk plus projector and screen, funded in part by local district councillor Stuart Bird.

During the on/off lockdowns we opened when we could with the statutory safety measures in place – sometimes when nothing else could be done, live streaming events into people’s living rooms. The important thing was – we kept going and now the hard work is paying off as we build our audience numbers and continue to attract quality musicians and companies who want to perform at our venue.

Next year is our 5 Year Anniversary and to mark the occasion I have commissioned local wicker artist Tracey Barrett – Brown

We have established Two Sisters as the go-to venue for local events including hosting Felixstowe Book Festival, WAMFest and Felixstowe Maritime Festival this year.

to create a unique installation which will be unveiled at our new season re-opening in March this year. This will be an exciting event which we hope will put us firmly on the map and herald in the next five years.

We are a not-for-profit community enterprise company run by volunteers and not regularly funded by anyone, relying on Box Office receipts, bar takings and donations to pay the artists and the bills. We are grateful to those that have given us occasional grants including Felixstowe Town Council, Trimley St. Mary Parish Council, Trimley St. Martin Parish Council and the Co-op.

We have a Crowdfunding page up and running to raise money for the new art installation. Please go to www.justgiving. com/crowdfunding/two-sisters if you want to donate. Any donation of £25 and over will get a free ticket to the Great Unveiling and priority booking for the new season.

We will continue with our first Friday in the month jazz sessions with some quality names lined up including the return of Thane & The Villeins and guitarists Nic Meirer and John Parker.

There will be drama with James Hyland’s adaptation of Treasure Island Silver & Gold, and Giles Shenton with his one man show My Dog Has Got No Nose.

More comedy with Paul Richards hot from the Edinburgh Fringe with his five-star production, Harvey is Running Late and a Rob Barrett comedy and improv night. In addition, there will be poetry from Luke Wright and Blake Morrison and a look at the history of surnames with the ever popular Charlie Haylock.

And of course, folk nights with Rosewood, A Light Left On, Matt White (Bearfoot Soul) and The Hosepipe Band to name but a few.

I’m grateful to the dedicated team I work with including Alison and David Miller who run the bar, Alan Dix (resident techie and building manager), Tony Scarlett (tech) and Peter and Mary Wain (Front of House)

FIND US

More information and events can be found on our website and Facebook page: Website: twosistersarts.co.uk Facebook: Two Sisters Art Centre Telephone: 01394 279613

2023 is looking to be an exciting year with the new programme of events already taking shape.

Address: St. Mary’s Church, High Road, Trimley St. Mary, Felixstowe, IP11 0SP

HIRING OUR CENTRE

The building is available for hire by visual and performance artists and groups. Hire charges are:

• Rehearsals : £25 for three hours

• Performance or Event:

• £75 Half Day £150 All Day (9am-6pm)

• £75 per evening plus 70/30 split on Box Office sales

Contact Suzanne: 01394 279613 for bookings. For more information: email: mail4fcat@gmail.com or visit

BOX OFFICE

Tickets can be reserved by phone or online at: 01394 279613 ticketsource.co.uk/two-sisters-arts-centre

VOLUNTEERING

We are always looking for more volunteers so if you think you could help, get in touch by e-mailing: mail4fcat@gmail.com. You

get to see free shows and meet new people – what could be better than that?

If you would like to volunteer at Two Sisters email: alison.miller@gmx.co.uk.

SPONSOR US

If as a local business you would like to sponsor us please email mail4fcat@gmail.com. Myself and the team all look forward to seeing you soon!

Suzanne Hawkes

Artistic Director

Two Sisters Arts Centre

twosistersarts.co.uk

FB: Two Sisters Art Centre

OUR 2023 COMPETITION Photo of the Year

Huge congrats to local lad, Tom Hynard Photography, who captrued this beautiful photo. Tom said, “I wanted to get that perfect photo of my boy bear as they’re not around forever! It took me a fair few attempts to get this perfect portrait.”

To enter next year’s competition, simply email us your entry to: info@thefelixstowemagazine.com.

Felixstowe Photographers

J Forrest Photography

Stephen Squirrell

Joanne Munday

Archie Rhea

Timothy Moore

Arthur Horrigan

John Langford

Jason Sadler

Is There Still a Place for Radio? FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The chances are you would have had a radio, or even transistor radio, in the kitchen. In the living room (or did you call it your lounge or front room?) you might have had a stereogram. Or if you were really swish, a hi-fi tower system. In your car, you might have had a radiocassette player, perhaps with a wire coat-hanger as a make-do aerial. In the bedroom, you might have listened to Radio Luxembourg under the sheets, then “taped” the chart-show the next afternoon. From Radios One, Two, Three and Four you made your choice as they battled for audiences with the “Pirates”. Salvation came with BBC local radio stations, and local commercial stations all promising and delivering truly local radio with local presenters talking about the things that were important to us and to where we lived and worked.

have neglected much of their audience, particularly the over-fifties in their local output. The presenters, journalists and staff at BBC local radio stations have, again in my opinion, been discarded like unwanted puppies after Christmas.

Felixstowe Radio is a community radio station with no paid staff or members. Each presenter, technician, administrator works for the joy of their specialist music or subject. Being super-local, we understand what gets you riled as well as what makes your heart sing! We live, work and play in the same places as you. We care, and we show it.

So, yes, there is a place for radio in 2023!

If you long for a radio station that suits you, give us a listen. And if you fancy giving radio a try, drop us an email.

Rob Dunger

Presenter & Producer

robdunger.co.uk felixstoweradio.org.uk

Mobile: 07900 991499

As we now know, commercial radio lost the local advantage by going regional and in some cases, national, but still using a “shroud” or name to appear local. More recently the BBC seem to

Think back just a few years and how you listened to the radio... Or was it still a wireless in your house?

This blend was the winning formula in my view. Competition and rivalry working in the interests of the audience.

The Thoughts Behind the Camera

They that go down to the sea in ships; or, in Kevin Rendall’s case, wellies and a windcheater...

I lived in Felixstowe for forty years and the advent of digital photography was my principal starting point, I had used film cameras previously but not to any large extent. The wide open spaces of Felixstowe’s seafront area inspire me, especially at dawn and sunset.

My photos are taken with a Nikon D750 using a Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 VR lens at two of my favourite locations; Felixstowe Ferry and Landguard Common, both of which are my ‘go-to’ locations for the opportunities they present.

Photography for me is a therapeutic passion, I love the idea that as a photographer I’ll never cease being better, there’s something new to learn and understand every time I go out. For aspiring or young photographers just starting out patience is key, results will definitely come as you understand more about the exposure triangle of aperture, ISO and shutter speed. These three elements are at the heart of all we do as photographers.

A recurring theme in my photographs seems to be water, which is everywhere but without a drop of it to drink. Lakes, rivers, waterfalls and, of course, the sea all feature prominently in much of what, between us, my cameras and I produce

then share. I’ve always lived by the sea and from an early age been fascinated by it, however, a mortal fear of jellyfish (honestly, it’s true) means I’m only ever next to it and rarely, if ever, in it. Although having said that, given the choice between getting soaked or protecting my precious kit, I’ll always let the waves do their worst to me. The irony is I’m probably in considerably more danger from clambering over slippery rocks and seaweed covered breakwaters than anything the gelatinous marine life that so terrifies me could ever manage.

‘‘

In Suffolk, Felixstowe in particular, we’re a bit spoilt for choice. With two decent rivers, three if you include The Stour from Shotley to Manningtree, there’s enough to occupy most curious photographers.

Connecting them all is the mighty and frequently meaty, North Sea; angry or benign and with precious little in between its two moods. From the old railway jetty on Landguard up to just beyond Martello Tower ‘U’ where The Deben empties and floods twice a day is a lovely walk, do so with a camera in hand and suddenly there’s so much more to see. Morning and evening are the best times as you’d expect, make the effort before breakfast and Mother Nature will reward your diligence handsomely. The seashore, in my view, is also such a great place to learn and improve your technique.

I’m not a photography expert, far from it, but mess enough things up and pretty soon you will acquire enough knowledge to become reasonably proficient. Photography, whatever genre you specialise in, is a bit like playing golf or learning the guitar, you’re never quite finished getting better.

Even mostly competent enthusiasts, moreover, aren’t immune from the occasional bungle, this I can vouch for and it’s very annoying. I once went to the presentation of a recently signed footballer who, as is customary once his presser was over, went outside onto the pitch to pose with a shirt and juggle a ball. Having forgotten to adjust my camera from the artificial lighting in the press room to bright sunlight outside, my shots – the most important ones from the entire event – were over-exposed and unusable. Lesson learnt!

Lesson number two, my temptation, when confronted by an unbelievably beautiful scene was always to snatch the camera out of my bag and excitedly start blatting

away. All well and good but I’d end up with nearly identical shots many of which would later be deleted. Clattering off shots without any kind of prior reconnaissance invariably resulted in okayish images, nothing earth-shattering, and rather more disappointment than anticipated. Besides making the whole thing much more enjoyable, slowing the photographic process down also produces greatly improved results. Once in a while, though, more haste is the only way to get the shot, that fleeting moment, blink and you’ll miss it, when clouds are illuminated spectacularly by a rapidly disappearing sun, for example. At moments like this, with no time to set up, my phone is sometimes, not often, pulled out of my pocket.

Aside from the occasional Instagram story, I rarely use my smart phone camera, to be honest. I would just add that mobile phones these days can, and frequently do, produce some excellent images, but they’re just not really for me. Where I do find my mobile handy though, is to fire off a kind of test shot to gauge a composition. I’ll do that a few times, often squatting lower down or moving couple of metres to either side just to compare the results.

Some photographers, either through a desire to travel light or perhaps a simple aversion, also prefer not to use a tripod. I’m the opposite. For me, my tripod is a bit like a comfort blanket. I just feel happier with it and probably use it much more than is strictly necessary. Each to his, or her, own.

To sum up, seascapes are my thing, sealife – unless accompanied by chips – very much isn’t.

FELIXSTOWE’S COMMUNITY NATURE RESERVE

Making Up for the Loss of Trees

Dr. Adrian Cooper tells us how Felixstowe’s folks can help.

Felixstowe has suffered a devastating loss of trees over the last few years.

Housing developers have cleared acres of land for their lucrative building projects without replacing what they have destroyed.

Even East Suffolk Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment has officially conceded that the council has “no control over the way developers clear the land.”

Felixstowe’s Community Nature Reserve is therefore inviting all local people to plant at least one new tree, in your garden, allotment or the grounds of your business.

To school teachers, we invite you to plant as many trees as you can, as part of your school’s wildlife-friendly garden. We hope every school has one!

Trees provide habitat, food and shelter for many kinds of wildlife, both big and small and for smaller plants too. Trees also improve the soil around their roots. Trees improve property value!

If you prefer to focus on the financial benefit of planting trees, did you know that trees have been estimated to improve the value of a property by up to 20%?

Felixstowe’s Community Nature Reserve has always focused on creating networks of environmentally helpful initiatives between local gardens, allotments, apartment balconies and window boxes.

With this challenge for everyone to plant a new tree, we could create a distributed orchard right across the Felixstowe area. That is our vision! Best of all, it is completely achievable and realistic.

What kind of tree should we plant? The answer is: It’s up to you! From fruit trees to oak trees and many more besides. Local wildlife loves diversity, so the choice is yours.

Do you know of someone who has a birthday coming up soon? Why not buy them a tree sapling?

If you know of friends and neighbours who can’t afford to buy a tree, why not buy one for them as a special gift?

Today, Felixstowe’s Community Nature Reserve have over 1,670 active members in our local area – each of whom has allocated at least three square yards of their gardens and/or allotments for wildlife-friendly plants or other features such as hedgehog homes, insect lodges, wildlife ponds, bird feeders, and much else too. Our role is to help local people by showing what’s available, how to grow the right kind of plants and build the right kind of other features to make the Felixstowe area one of the most wildlifefriendly localities you will ever find. And all because local individuals care enough to make a difference.

Since the start of Felixstowe’s Community Nature Reserve in May 2015, local people have shown extraordinary enthusiasm and support for our work. We hope you will continue to do so, by each planting a tree, and developing our wonderful wildlifefriendly town.

Dr. Adrian Cooper

FB: Felixstowe Community Nature Reserve

Community listings & Useful Contacts...

Town Council & Politics

Felixstowe Town Council

Town Hall, Felixstowe, IP11 2AG 01394 282086 www.felixstowe.gov.uk

Town Clerk townclerk@felixstowe.gov.uk Deputy Town Clerk debbie.frost@felixstowe.gov.uk

Mayor’s Secretary mayor@felixstowe.gov.uk Planning Administration Officer sarah.morrison@felixstowe.gov.uk

Cemetery/Allotments janine.smith@felixstowe.gov.uk Administration Assistant janine.smith@felixstowe.gov.uk

Felixstowe Town Mayor

Cllr Sharon Harkin mayor@felixstowe.gov.uk

MAP OF WARDS

Councillors (by ward)

Mick Richardson Marshes Ward 07946 028517 mick.richardson@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Conservative

Nick Barber

Coastal Ward 07876 757268

nick.barber@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Conservative

Steve Gallant

Coastal Ward 07860 478192 steve.gallant@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Conservative

Doreen Savage

Coastal Ward 01394 285895 doreen.savage@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Conservative Steve Wiles

Coastal Ward 07986 566225 steve.wiles@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Conservative

Darren Aitchison

Coastal Ward 07838 215 964 darren.aitchison@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Independent/None

Seamus Bennett

Coastal Ward 07818 664751 seamus.bennett@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Liberal Democrats

Sharon Harkin

Coastal Ward 01394 671758 sharon.harkin@felixstowe.gov.uk

Party: Conservative

Mark Jepson

Coastal Ward 01394 278622 mark.jepson@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Conservative

Margaret Morris

Walton Ward 01394 274345 margaret.morris@felixstowe.gov.uk

Party: Labour

Mike Deacon Walton Ward 01394 211146 / 07971 563621 mike.deacon@felixstowe.gov.uk

Party: Labour

Kimberley Williams

Walton Ward 07814499375 / 01394 284180 kimberley.williams@felixstowe.gov.uk

Party: Labour

Andy Smith Port Ward 01394 283283 andy.smith@felixstowe.gov.uk

Party: Conservative

Stuart Bird Port Ward 01394 275128 stuart.bird@felixstowe.gov.uk

Party: Conservative

Tracey Green

Port Ward 07759 218476 tracey.green@felixstowe.gov.uk Party: Conservative

MEMBER OF

PARLIAMENT FOR SUFFOLK

COASTAL: Dr Therese Coffey MP therese.coffey.mp@parliament.uk 02072197164

Political Parties

Labour

Branch Secretary - Mary Wyatt https://www.suffolkcoastallabour.org. uk/branches/felixstowe-blp/

Conservatives Chair - Graham Newman Chairman 07802 397 905 chairman.scca@gmail.com suffolkcoastalconservatives.org.uk

Liberal Democrats Chair - Jan Candy contact@eastsuffolk-libdems.org.uk eastsuffolk-libdems.org.uk Green Party suffolkcoastal.greenparty.org.uk UKIP www.ukip.org

Transportation

Great Anglia (train services) 0345 600 7245 contactcentre@greateranglia.co.uk www.greateranglia.co.uk felixstowe-bus-train-times.co.uk

Felixstowe Bus Service (First Ipswich Buses) First Ipswich Customer Services (Operates Routes 72, X7, 75, 76, 76A, 77, 77A, 978) 0345 606 6067 felixstowe-bus-train-times.co.uk

Ipswich to London Coach National Express Coaches 0871 781 8181 (Mon to Sun 8am-8pm) www.nationalexpress.com

Museums & Theatre

Felixstowe Museum

Viewpoint Road, IP11 3TW 01394 674355 (answerphone) felmuseum@btopenworld.com felixstowemuseum.org

Palace Cinema Crescent Road, IP11 7BG 01394 282787 boxoffice@palacecinemafelixstowe.com www.palacecinemafelixstowe.com Spa Pavilion 01728 666329

Harwich Harbour Foot & Bicycle Ferry

customerservice@harwichharbourferry.com www.harwichharbourferry.com

Undercliff Road West, IP11 2DX Box Office: 01394 284 962 Restaurant, Bar & Café: 01394 336 336 fb: @SpaPavilion

Costume hire

Felixstowe Musical Theatre A very extensive wardrobe available for hire to other groups, or individuals wanting fancy dress at very reasonable rates. www.felixstowemusicaltheatre.co.uk 07881 820923

Arts & Performance

Felixstowe Art Group

The aim of the group is to build a community of artists and facilitate learning and development of skills as well as being a social group. Weekly painting sessions and demo evenings twice a month. If interested in joining then please fill in the contact form on our website or call into our Bent Hill Gallery. Member benefits include entitlement to display paintings in the gallery and in the annual exhibition. www.felixstoweartgroup.org

Orwell Art Group

Kirton and Falkenham Performing Arts

Kirton & Falkenham Performing Arts - KAFPA - stages two productions each year and also gets involved in other village events. We are in Suffolk, a few miles inland from Felixstowe. New members are very welcome and we very much appreciate our regular and loyal friends and audiences. enquiries@kafpa.org.uk. www.kafpa.org.uk

Felixstowe Sewing School

A crafty and sewing haven in Felixstowe run by Amanda Bowden, (BTEC Distinction, BA Hons Fashion, PGCE) this small and very friendly sewing school offers classes, and lessons for the beginner and novice. 07787 981 493 amanda_bowden18@hotmail.com www.felixstowesewingschool.co.uk

Orwell Decorative And Fine Arts Society

Promoting the Fine Arts. Based in the Ipswich area and our members are drawn from all around East Suffolk. We meet monthly for illustrated lectures with national and international experts, study days, day-trips to important and notable buildings in the area, an annual tour to an interesting region farther afield, and the opportunity to participate in events and activities promoted by the National Association. www.orwelldfas.org.uk

Music in Felixstowe

We embrace most genres of music and also host a very popular lunchtime series given by young Suffolk musicians. 01394 670633 www.felixstowemusic.com

Felixstowe Music Theatre

Starting in 1966 and affiliated to N.O.D.A (National Operatic and Dramatic Association). Over the years we have supported many charities and produces award winning shows. www.felixstowemusicaltheatre.co.uk

The Company of Four 07935 333457 info@cof4.co.uk www.thecompanyoffour.co.uk

Orwell Connection Choir

The Orwell Connection Choir enjoy meeting weekly on Tuesday evenings from 7.30 - 9.30pm at the Convent in St John’s Road, Felixstowe. We sing a broad range of music from musical hits to excerpts from popular sacred works. We perform concerts throughout the year. orwellconnectionschoir@gmail.com

Felixstowe Live Gig Guide fb: Felixstowe Live Gig Guide

Felixstowe Harmonies

A 45-strong vocal harmony group which performs songs from the light classical repertoire, folk, jazz and blues to pop, swing and songs from the big band era. felixstowe.harmonies@gmail.com www.felixstoweharmonies.co.uk

Charities, Service Organisations & Support

BASIC Life Charity

An acronym for Business And Service In Christ, BASIC endeavours to provide encouragement and support to those in our community who may be less able than ourselves and to enable people irrespective of their race or religion to be provided with the BASICs of life: Shelter, Food, Education, Recreation and Spiritual guidance. BASIC has two retail shops in Felixstowe and Walton.

Felixstowe Shop & Deliveries

17 Hamilton Road, IP11 7AJ 01394 272618

Walton Shop & Head Office 312 High Street, Walton, IP11 9QJ 01394 279400 basiclife@live.co.uk www.basic.org.uk

British Heart Foundation 78 Hamilton Road, IP11 7AF 01394 282339 www.bhf.org.uk

RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution)

Boost

Our volunteer lifeboat crews provide a 24hour rescue service in the UK and Ireland, and our seasonal lifeguards look after people on busy beaches. Our Flood Rescue Team helps those affected by flooding.

Judy Jones - Hon secretary 01394 282090 njones500@aol.com www.rnli.org.uk

Inspire Suffolk

A local charity running courses for 16-25 year olds to build confidence, skills and support them into work, education and more, and sport activities for children. www.inspiresuffolk.org.uk

A small charity based in Felixstowe, existing to pioneer partnerships between faith and education. We work relentlessly to show love, hope and change to the young people with whom we work. www.boostfelixstowe.org.uk

Salvation Army

With Life Together Groups at various times and locations. Our Community Centre is open throughout the week from 10am3pm to help assist with with everything from running our Food bank to help with signposting. We also employ a youth worker who helps run youth projects throughout the year, as well as regular groups such as Young Dreamers, our performing arts group for 11-25 year olds that take part in evening concerts to full scale productions. Felixstowe Corps, Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL 01394 276502 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

Lions Club

Providing humanitarian need, youth programmes, supporting the local community, health initiatives, partner projects and more. www.felixstowelions.org.uk

Level Two Youth Project

To promote the welfare of young people (age 7-25) living in Felixstowe and surrounding villages, through supportive relationships and positive experiences, designed to enhance their personal and social development. 54 Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL 01394 272521 www.leveltwo.org

John LeVay Care Information Centre

A wonderful centre used by many in Felixstowe, which provides support, advice and information for patients and their carers living with, and beyond, cancer. 01473 715748

Felixstowe Dementia Action Alliance

The Felixstowe Dementia Action Alliance aims to make Felixstowe a Dementia Friendly Community. We will do this by engaging with local businesses and organisations to raise awareness of dementia. We also liaise with people with dementia and their carers.

Helen Greengrass: 07717 150993 fxtdaa@gmail.com

https://www.dementiaaction.org.uk/local_ alliances/14357_felixstowe_dementia_action_alliance

Befriending scheme

The Befriending Scheme provides friendship and learning opportunities for vulnerable people (16yrs+), including those with learning disabilities, mental health needs, older people, and other isolated groups. We also provide lots of volunteering opportunities with extra support for those who need it. 01787 371333

info@thebefriendingscheme.org.uk www.thebefriendingscheme.org.uk

Memory Café

For people living with dementia and their carers to come along and meet everyone. We would like to encourage anyone who is interested to help either as a volunteer, or as potential sponsors to pop in and meet us. We can show you around, introduce you to the new facilitator Tony Lazell, and demonstrate to you how important this facility is for people living with dementia in Felixstowe. For refreshments purposes if you would like to pop in please let us know. We were formally known as Synergy Cafe. fxtdaa@gmail.com

Salvation Army, Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL

The Parent Hub https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/children-families-and-learning/the-parent-hub/ Social Services 0808 800 4005

Open Monday to Thursday, 8am to 5:20pm and Friday, 8am to 4:20pm. Calls are free from landlines and most mobiles.

Felixstowe Listening Service

A service of Inspire Counselling and Training and has been active in Felixstowe since 2012. Since we began over 120 clients have received our support whilst many churches, groups and individuals have undertaken training in aspects of pastoral care, listening skills and counselling. We believe that we have equipped many people to provide constructive and effective care for others and that the outworking of this is being demonstrated in the community. 01473 217694 contact@inspirecounselling.org.uk www.inspirecounselling.org.uk

Coastwatch

Felixstowe Coastwatch has over 60 highly trained volunteers who man the lookout in twos or threes helping to keep our beaches and inshore waters safe. 01394 670808 www.coastwatch-felixstowe.co.uk

Walton Parish Nursing

Walton Parish Nursing is a Christian charity who support people in the Walton community towards whole person healthcare. This is care for the person’s overall well-being, incorporating body, mind and spirit. Walton Parish Nursing is “owned” and supported by three churches in the Walton area of Felixstowe: Maidstone Road Baptist Church, Seaton Road Methodist Church and St Mary’s Anglican Church.

Lorna - 07969 901001 John - 07909 888703 contactus@waltonpn.org.uk www.waltonpn.org.uk

Positive Pals

Positive Pals is a friendly, self help group based in Felixstowe for those suffering with ME (Myalgic Encephalopathy/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and Fibromyalgia and their carers. Although based in Felixstowe we welcome members from across the Felixstowe peninsular. We currently meet once a month in the local community centre where we enjoy a good chat over tea/coffee with the occasional invited speaker or outing. Because we are all in the same health situation we can offer genuine understanding, support and a listening ear for those in need or just a friendly chat over drinks.

01394 279840 info@positivepals.org www.positivepals.org

Felixstowe Household Waste Recycling Centre Closes on Wednesdays, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Carr Road, IP11 3UT www.greensuffolk.org/recycling/HWRC/ felixstowe-hwrc/

To report fly tipping: 0345 606 6067 waste.management@suffolk.gov.uk

Citizens Advice Bureau

We provide free, confidential and impartial advice and campaign on big issues affecting people’s lives. Our goal is to help everyone find a way forward, whatever problem they face.

2-6 Orwell Road 0808 278 7866 www.felixstowecab.org.uk

Groups & Clubs

Felixstowe Society

Chairman - Jan Garfield chairman@felixstowesociety.org www.felixstowesociety.org

Felixstowe Walkers

Join us for a healthy walk amidst wonderful scenery. All walks start at 10.30am (unless otherwise stated) and last for about one hour. www.felixstowesociety.org

Kirton and Trimley Community Action Group fb: @KirtonLandGrab contact@kirtontrimleycag.com www.kirtontrimleycag.com

Old Felixstowe Community Association Pauline Varden 01394 278105 secretary@oldfelixstoweca.org.uk https://www.oldfelixstoweca.org.uk/ Felixstowe Bridge Club

We are a small, friendly club that meets on Tuesday afternoons at the Suffolk & Felixstowe Bowls Club. The club is situated between Platters Road and St Edmunds Road. You might like to contact the Club Secretary in advance. Please come along and join us. You will be made very welcome. 01473 727537 www.bridgewebs.com/felixstowe/

Felixstowe Scribblers

Our Writers Circle. Meetings are held at The Room at the Top in Felixstowe Library, normally on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm - 10.00pm. Check the weblog for details of meetings. Due to the implementation of room hire charges, membership fees now apply. There is an annual fee of £25. 07976931811 scribblers.1@btinternet.com http://scribblers2010.blogspot.com/

Established since 1948 for the advancement of Photography as an Art and a Science through the mutual assistance and friendly criticism between its members. The society welcomes anyone who has an interest in photography, where we provide a friendly atmosphere combining monthly and annual competitions with guest speakers, members’ workshops and demonstrations. www.felixstowephotographic.org.uk

Felixstowe Old Peoples Welfare Association (F.O.P.W.A.) The Senior Citizens Centre

U3A East Suffolk

The University of the Third Age (U3A) in East Suffolk is a thriving cooperative offering educational, recreational and social activities for its members, who are in their ‘third age’ — the time after they have finished working full-time or raising a family and have the time and opportunity to pursue their interests or try something new. Most members are located in the south-eastern area of Suffolk including Ipswich, Felixstowe, Woodbridge, Saxmundham, and surrounding towns and villages.

Secretary on 0300 123 3913 www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk

Colneis Flower Club

An “open house” to the over 60’s - both resident and visitors to Felixstowe. It is not a Club, so you don’t have to “join” or pay a membership fee, to be able to come in. It is provided as a haven for Senior Citizens to rest, have some tea/coffee or other light refreshments, meet or make new friends, use our Wi-Fi facility or just sit quietly in the company of others. Come by yourself or with someone else and stay for a few minutes or a few hours. We do not provide any medical or respite care services. We have tried to create the atmosphere of a friendly and welcoming lounge - so no organised activities. 01394 278061 richolland1@btinternet.com http://fopwa.onesuffolk.net/senior-citizenscentre/

Flower arranging clubs and societies joined together in 1959 and formed the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) with help and advice from the Royal Horticultural Society. The Association has been a unifying and guiding influence to thousands of men, women and juniors whose love of flowers has opened up a new world of creativity. Meet 3rd Thursday at 7.30pm except August and December.

Old Felixstowe Community Centre, Ferry Road, Felixstowe IP11 9NB www.nafas.org.uk

The Felixstowe Master Mariners

The object of the Club is to maintain and foster, locally, social and professional comradeship amongst Master Mariners, and to afford the opportunity for discussion of matters nautical and general interest, to sponsor selected projects of special nautical interest, and, for that purpose, to meet regularly at luncheon or dinner, at a place selected by the Committee. mastermariners.uk

Felixstowe Photographic Society

For Children & Youth

Kirton and Falkenham Parent and Toddler Group £1.50 per family. Kirton Church Hall 07807983119 fb: @Kandftoddlers

Trimley Tots Parent and Toddler Group

Caroll Wallace - Secretary 01394 272695 info@felixstowegardenclub.co.uk http://felixstowedistricths.onesuffolk.net/

Speakers of Felixstowe

A club dedicated to helping people improve their confidence and enhance their speaking skills. Keith - Secretary 01728 604174 www.felixstowespeakers.org.uk

Felixstowe Conservative Club Membership, snooker, BT Sports & SKY Sports, music, bingo, Quiz Nights, pool, poker, bowls, bridge and whist, darts, function room hire.

28 High Road West, IP11 9JB 01394 282633 info@felixstoweconservativeclub.org.uk www.felixstoweconservativeclub.org.uk

The Felixstowe Area “N” Gauge Model Railway Group

The group is essentially a gathering of likeminded modellers, with the aims of sharing ideas and information, and the opportunity to combine skills on larger projects. 01394 277211 www.felixstowengauge.org.uk

We are a small group for parents or grandparents with children birth to 5 years that meets once a week, we have a large play area with lots of toys. We have tea, coffee and drinks and biscuits.

The Welcome Hall, High Road, Trimley St Mary, Felixstowe, IP11 0TN 07824 309712

Felixstowe Nursery School

Felixstowe Nursery School is a small private nursery taking children from two to five years. It has been in its present location since 1987. During this time we have seen hundreds of happy children pass through our care.

Ambulance Hall, Ataka Road, IP11 9DH 07905 504005 admin@felixstowenursery.co.uk www.felixstowenursery.co.uk

Old Felixstowe Nursery

We aim to enable children to realise their full potential in every aspect of learning and development through stimulating play within a friendly, happy and caring environment.

At Old Felixstowe Nursery we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality pre-school education available. As a long established nursery we are very well resourced and have experienced preschool/nursery nurses who will work closely with your child. We encourage each individual child to be the best they can be.

Felixstowe Garden Club

Old Felixstowe Nursery

The Grounds of Kingsfleet School

Ferry Road, IP11 9LY 01394 275466 oldfelixstowenursery@btinternet.com www.oldfelixstowenursery.onesuffolk.net/

Felixstowe Twins Club 94 Maidstone Road, IP11, UK felixstowe.twin.club@gmail.com www.twinsclub.co.uk

Little Hoppers 01394 286998 littlehoppers@live.co.uk www.little-hoppers.co.uk

The Oaks Nursery

We are located in The Oaks Children’s Centre in Grange Road, Felixstowe. Our nurturing ‘home from home’ environment is carefully designed to encourage children to learn independently in a safe, secure environment that promotes equality and values diversity.We provide all meals and promote healthy eating. Our cook prepares a healthy home cooked lunch for the children using fresh ingredients. Grange Road, Felixstowe, IP11 2LA 01394 694752 info.headoffice@alpha-nurseries.co.uk

Twinkle Toes Pre-School

Our aim is to provide a caring and safe environment where each child can express themselves as an individual.

The Hall, Methodist Church, High Road, Trimley St. Martin, IP11 0RN 07763 816224 twinkletoespreschool.weebly.com/ Little Kickers

St Andrew’s Pre-School

We are a committee-run pre-school offering high-quality sessional childcare for children from 2 - school age. St Andrews Church Hall, St Andrews Rd, IP11 7EB manager.standrews.preschool@gmail.com secretary.standrews.preschool@gmail.com 01394 278326 or 07815200925 www.standrewspreschoolfelixstowe.co.uk

Fairfield Infant School and Colneis Junior School

Our staff and governors work hard to make sure that the two schools work together to nurture, challenge and inspire all our children to give and achieve their best both now and in the future. We are very proud of all our children’s success and delighted to celebrate the steps they take during their time with us. We value the support of parents as our partners in children’s education and we aim to work with you to provide the best possible education for the children at Fairfield and Colneis.

Fairlfield: 01394 283206

fairfieldoffice@fairfieldandcolneis.co.uk Colneis: 01394 284052 colneisoffice@fairfieldandcolneis.co.uk www.colneisjunior.co.uk

Maidstone Infant & Causton Junior School

Pupils’ positive attitudes to learning, willingness to learn from their mistakes and development of emotional and social skills ensure that they are well prepared for the next stage of their education. Maidstone 01394 283375 maidstoneadmin@maidstoneandcauston.org Causton 01394 283374 caustonadmin@maidstoneandcauston.org www.maidstoneandcaustonschool.org.uk

Trimley St Mary Primary School

It’s an approach that has bagged us numerous awards and helped us expand globally over the last 12 years. We’re continually improving and updating our classes.

The Welcome Hall, 198 High Road, Trimley St Mary, IP11 0TN 07762341982

shatcher@littlekickers.co.uk

Situated in the village of Trimley St Mary on the outskirts of Felixstowe. Our larger than average community school dates back to 1904 and has grown as the village has grown with a strong sense of belonging, care and support. Our school is a friendly and welcoming setting, fostering strong community links, which works closely with families and other agencies to support all children to achieve and be successful in their own right. 01394 284130 office@trimley.net http://trimley.net/

St Edmund’s Hall, Langer Road, IP11 2HL 07961 825637 or 01394 277966 langerplaygroup@gmail.com

The Play Pit

We are a privately owned nursery and maintain the highest of childcare standards which include the National Guidelines. 01394 276005 theplaypit123@yahoo.com www.theplaypit.com

Felixstowe Academy

We have a clear vision for the Academy and believe very much in developing each and every one of our students so that they can achieve their true potential. We provide the opportunities for success; we develop in our students the skills that they will need in the future; we help them develop as individuals but emphasise their place within the community, helping them to think about and care for others; we guide our students to enable them to become independent learners and good team members. 01394 288228 office@fxs.org.uk https://fxa.org.uk/

Colneis Girl Guides

Colneis Division consists of two districts; Felixstowe and Walton, and Orwell and Deben. We have a brand new division headquarters in Felixstowe which is within walking distance of all the local amenities. Within our Division we have a Division Ranger unit, 4 Guide units, 7 Brownie units and 5 Rainbow units. http://girlguidingsuffolk.org.uk/divisions/ colneis/

356 (Felixstowe) Squadron - Air Cadets

One of the best, if not the best, Youth Organisation in Felixstowe. Lots of things going on and lots of opportunities to take part in. Have a look at our Facebook page for updates on some of our recent activities and pictures. You don’t have to join the Royal Air Force or go flying if you don’t want to! We have a lot going on, so I’m sure you’ll find something that will challenge you!

Carr Road, IP11 2TP 01394 673419 www.356atc.co.uk

7th Felixstowe Scout Group

We are one of four groups in Felixstowe but we are the only group with outdoor space which we use for traditional scouting skills. The group is well founded and offers scouting for children from the age of six to fourteen when they have to move on to an Explorer Unit. www.7thfelixstowescouts.org.uk

Felixstowe Sea Scouts

1st Felixstowe Sea Scouts are looking for more young people to join the adventure and more volunteers to help. Ready to begin your adventure? Contact the group leader Steve Pocock 07590 019593 or to find out more. Weekly Friday meetings (term time). The activities and opportunities vary but what is the same is that each will empower you to make friends, learn skills and try new things. Examples are: Archery and Table Tennis, Day and Night Hikes, Sailing Opportunities, Camping, FREE FOUR WEEK TRIAL

07590 019593 stevepocock1066@yahoo.co.uk fb: @felixstoweseascouts

Churches

Churches Together in Felixstowe

St Mary’s Church Walton High St, Felixstowe IP11 9DS 01394 670090 www.stmaryswalton.org.uk

St Andrews Church St Andrews Road, IP11 7EB 01394 670940

St Peter & St Paul Church

Its strength comes through people from different traditions finding new ways to work and worship together. We come together for a few events each year, as well as supporting each other in prayer throughout the year. churchestogetherfelixstowe.org

St John’s Church Orwell Road, IP11 7PW 07814 949828

Christ Church Grange Farm Ave, IP11 2XD 01394 282204 www.christchurchfelixstowe.org.uk

Trinity Methodist Church 26 Hamilton Road, IP11 7AN 01394 275047 https://fpmc.methodistic.org.uk

Bethesda Baptist Church Cavendish Road, IP11 2AR 01394 270187 www.bethesdafelixstowe.com

Felixstowe United Reformed Church Tomline Road, IP11 7PA 01473 402721 www.felixstoweurc.org.uk

Seaton Road Methodist Church Seaton Road, IP11 9BT https://fpmc.methodistic.org.uk

River of Life Church 2 Carr Road, IP11 2FS 01394 273700 riveroflifechurch.net

Maidstone Road Baptist Church 18 Maidstone Road, IP11 9ED 01394 822173 www.mrbcfelixstowe.org.uk

Church Road, IP11 9NF www.oldfelixstoweparish.org.uk

Temple of Light 28 Beach Road West, IP11 2BQ 07886 534931 www.templeoflightfelixstowe.com

Ranelagh Road Christian Fellowship Ranelagh Road, Felixstowe IP11 7HA 01394 284439 admin@ranelaghfellowship.org.uk www.ranelaghfellowship.org.uk

Convent of Jesus & Mary 63 Orwell Road, IP11 7PP 01394 282386 https://stfelixfelixstowe.uk/convent-of-jesusand-mary

Saint Edmund’s Church Langer Road, IP11 2HR 07814 949828

St Felix Catholic Church 8 Gainsborough Road, IP11 7HT 01394 282561 https://stfelixfelixstowe.uk/

Trimley Free Church 182 High Road, Trimley St Mary, IP11 0SS 01394 276171

Trimley Methodist Church High Road, Trimley St Martin, IP11 0RL https://fpmc.methodistic.org.uk

Festivals, Events & Markets

Art on the Prom

Art on the Prom is one of Felixstowe’s largest free community events organised by a small group of volunteers. We are grateful to them and our sponsors for their backing. If you would like to be part of the great team that helps to make this event such a success, please contact us at: felixstoweartontheprom@gmail.com www.artontheprom.org

Suffolk Open Studios

Suffolk Open Studios is a collaborative organisation run by artists for artists and art lovers. www.suffolkopenstudios.org

Felixstowe Carnival contact@felixstowecarnival.org www.felixstowecarnival.org

Festival of Fabric

Bringing together specialist retailers with a love for and expertise in fabric, haberdashery, dressmaking, knitting and sewing patterns, vintage sewing machines, knitting and crochet accoutrements all under one roof. Shop for anything needed to make vintage style clothing. With vintage DJ, pop-up cafe and an exhibition of clothing, fashion accessories. You can also participate in sewing and crafting workshops with a vintage feel by employing wonderful teachers.

Festival enquiries: Amanda Bowden 07787 981 493 www.facebook.com/festivaloffabric/

The Ipswich to Felixstowe Car Rally

Up to 500 vehicles can participate in the event, starting in Christchurch Park, Ipswich. The vehicles make a 10-mile (16 km) journey to the promenade of Felixstowe, where they line up and remain there for a large part of the day. Traditionally held on the first Sunday in May, the vehicles assemble in Christchurch Park at Ipswich from 8.30 to 10.30am, then start to leave for Felixstowe at 11.00am, where they are displayed along the promenade during the afternoon (from about 12pm onwards).

Ipswich Transport Museum enquiries@ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk www.ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk

Felixstowe

in Flower

A festival for the whole community in transforming the town with flowers each summer. Whether by entering one of the floral competitions (which include gardens, floral containers, commercial premises, residential homes, public houses, hotel and guest houses, tallest sunflower, or school-led projects such as painting, grow-bags and environmental displays), or by sponsoring floral baskets or prizes, Felixstowe in Flower encourages people of all ages to care for their environment.

sue.faversham@felixstowe.gov.uk

Rob’s

Spiritual Awareness

A non-profit for good causes. Series of events held monthly with healers and stall holders.

robert.lummis@ntlworld.com

Bart’s Bash Community Markets and Table-Top Sales

Drop in to our Community Markets for bargains and refreshments, on the second Saturday of each month. All markets are in the Community Centre, 10am to 12pm, admission is free.

www.oldfelixstoweca.org.uk 01394 278105 secretary@oldfelixstoweca.org.uk

A global sailing race taking place at 100s of venues, with 1000s of sailors in 100s of different classes of boat around the world. Known as ‘The Largest Sailing Race in the World’, the Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club invite you to be part of this. Open to all sailing clubs, yacht clubs, schools, universities, scout groups, sea cadets, windsurfing clubs, individuals and any venue globally. Bart’s Bash gives the sailing community a united opportunity to remember Andrew ‘Bart’ Simpson, a double Olympic medallist who tragically lost his life whilst training for the America’s Cup in 2013. www.bartsbash.com

Felixstowe Book Festival

Now going into our fifth year, Felixstowe Book Festival has become one of the highlights of the East Anglian Arts Calendar.

Meg - Festival Director meg@megreid.co.uk 01394 279783 www.felixstowebookfestival.co.uk

Mannings

Sunday Market

Felixstowe’s well-established Sunday Market with a variety of stalls. 1 Platters Rd, Felixstowe IP11 2DL www.manningsamusements.co.uk

Felixstowe Country Market

A wide range of preserves, garden produce, homebakes and crafts up for sale. All goods are home made to the highest standards. Tea and coffee also available. Every Friday morning between 10am and 11am.

Felixstowe Trades & Labour Club 182 High Road West, IP11 9BB 01394 282108 ftalc@outlook.com www.ftalc.co.uk

Christmas Tree Festival

As well as seeing a display of decorated Christmas trees from various charities and organisations, you can browse charity stalls. The Christmas Tree Festival opening includes a short Carol Service. Refreshments will be available each day.

Salvation Army Church Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL www.christmastreefestivals.org/felixstowe/

Christmas Lights Switch on Event

With children’s parade, music, and so much more, this event is organised by the Felixstowe Lions Club. fb: @lionsclubfelixstowe Christmas Day Dip

Are you brave enough to take the plunge? Join us and hundreds of fabulous supporters on Felixstowe Seafront on Christmas Day morning. In aid of St Elizabeth Hospice it takes place on Felixstowe sea front on 25th December at 10am. It’s fun, a great way to start your day and importantly helps us care for patients 365 days of the year. Tickets are priced at just £13 until registration closes. See website for details. We all meet on Felixstowe sea front in front of Mannings Amusements.

stelizabethhospice.org.uk/christmas-day-dip/

Old Felixstowe Community Centre

Ferry Road, IP11 9NB 07494 599265 www.oldfelixstoweca.org.uk

St Marys Church Hall 1 Cage Lane, IP11 9BH 01394 670090 www.stmaryswalton.org.uk

Felixstowe Town Hall Undercliff Road West, IP11 2AG 01394 282086 www.felixstowe.gov.uk Conservative Club 01394 282633 info@felixstoweconservativeclub.org.uk www.felixstoweconservativeclub.org.uk

St Edmund’s Parish Hall Langer Road, IP11 2HN 07814 949828

Felixstowe Trades & Labour Club 182 High Road West, IP11 9BB 01394 282108 www.ftalc.co.uk

Seaton Road Methodist Church Seaton Road, IP11 9BT 01394 282023 www.seatonroad.org.uk

St John’s Church, Felixstowe Orwell Road, IP11 7PW 07814 949828

Trinity Methodist Church 26 Hamilton Road, IP11 7AN 01394 275047 www.trinity-methodist-church-felixstowe.co.uk

Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club Ferry Road, IP11 9RZ 01394 283785 https://ffsc.co.uk/

Sports

Felixstowe Leisure Centre

Community sports and leisure hub with soft-play area, indoor bowling green and swimming pools. 75 Undercliff Road West, IP11 2AE 01394 694600 www.placesleisure.org/centres/felixstoweleisure-centre/

Brackenbury Sports Centre

Our classes are social, fun and a really good workout. They range from low impact to the more intense and guide you through every step with our fantastic instructors. You can enjoy it with a friend or meet new people each week.

High Road East, IP11 9JF 01394 270278 www.placesleisure.org/centres/brackenbury-sports-centre/centre-activities/ classes/

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club

A friendly and relaxed environment. Felixstowe has a thriving and welcoming indoor bowls club situated on the first floor of the Felixstowe leisure centre. Competitive bowling for ladies and men takes place during the day and in the evenings.

Felixstowe Leisure Centre Undercliff Road West, IP11 2AE 01394 694600 www.felixstoweibc.com

Felixstowe Walkers

Join us for a healthy walk amidst wonderful scenery. All walks start at 10.30am (unless otherwise stated) and last for about one hour. The Felixstowe Walkers are part of The Felixstowe Society and regular walkers will be expected to become members of the society. Annual membership is £7, or £10 for two adults at the same address. Details of membership send a SAE to: felixstowewalkers@hotmail.co.uk

Felixstowe Runners

We are a friendly local running club with about 200 members in Felixstowe and sur- The club was formed in around 1900 as the Felixstowe Rifle Club and used the Army Ranges at Landguard Common (now part of the nature reserve). During World War 2 it became Felixstowe Home Guard Rifle Club. At that time it used the present site with the permission of Mr Clement-Smith and the Drill Hall in Garrison Lane. In 1955 the title was changed back to Felixstowe Rifle Club (FRC) which was the beginning of the club as it is today.

Felixstowe Rifle Club High Street, IP11 9UB www.felixstowe-rifle-club.co.uk

Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club

The only links golf course in Suffolk and one of only 246 true links courses in the World. secretary@felixstowegolf.Co.Uk andrew.Robinsonpga@yahoo.Co.Uk Ferry Road, IP11 9RY 01394 286834 www.felixstowegolf.co.uk

Felixstowe Lawn Tennis Club

For all abilities, ages & aspirations

We have 9 grass courts available during the summer season and 9 floodlit courts (3 acrylic, 3 macadam and 3 artificial grass) for play throughout the year, all overlooked by a spacious clubhouse. We offer a number of regular club sessions for members, including Tuesday evenings (6:30pm) and Sunday mornings (10am).The club has mens, ladies and mixed teams in the Suffolk league, A Friday Night League for all ages and abilities and runs an extensive coaching programme for adults and juniors.

37 Bath Road, IP11 7JN secretary@felixstowetennis.co.uk https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/felixstowe lawntennisclub

rounding areas. We welcome new members of all standards. We organise three road races each year – the Kirton 5 mile (part of the Friday Five series), the Coastal 10 (a 10 mile race along the seafront in Felixstowe) and the Martlesham 10K. In addition we have many less formal events in and around Felixstowe. We also have a very active junior section, meeting on Wednesday evenings. http://frr.org.uk/

U3A

The University of the Third Age (U3A) in East Suffolk is a thriving cooperative offering educational, recreational and social activities for its members, who are in their ‘third age.’ Contact us on information about our sports activities and membership. 0300 123 3913 admin@u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk https://www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk/

Felixstowe & Walton United Football Club Felixstowe & Walton United are a semi-professional football club playing in the Isthmian Bostik North Division, which is level Four of the National Football League.

4A Dellwood Avenue, IP11 9HT 01394 282627 webmaster@felixstowefootball.co.uk www.felixstowefootball.co.uk

Felixstowe & Corinthians Cricket Club

Dellwood Avenue, IP11 9HT 07738 199152 rjones@suffolkcricket.org https://fandc.play-cricket.com/

Felixstowe Rifle Club

Felixstowe Rugby Coronation Sports Ground

Mill Lane, IP11 2LN www.felixstowerufc.co.uk

Felixstowe Hockey Club

A friendly club that welcomes players of all ages and abilities. We have been established as a club in the coastal town of Felixstowe since 1905 (3 years before hockey was introduced as a sport into the Olympic Games in 1908). The club plays all of its matches on all-weather pitches, with home games being played at the Felixstowe Academy (Maidstone Campus) in Felixstowe.

Felixstowe Community Hub Maidstone Road, IP11 9EF www.felixstowehockeyclub.co.uk

Felixstowe Badminton Club

The club has two men’s teams, two mixed teams and a ladies’ team in the Ipswich & District Badminton League. 07801 150654

Brackenbury Sports Centre, High Road East, Felixstowe, IP11 9JF. http://suffolkbadminton.co.uk/clubs/felixstowe.html

Medical

Grove Medical Centre Grove Road, IP11 9GA 01394 283197 www.grovemcfelixstowe.nhs.uk

Felixstowe Community Hospital Constable Road, IP11 7HJ 01394 338410

Howard House Surgery 31 Orwell Road, IP11 7DD 01394 282706 www.howardhousesurgery.co.uk

Haven Heath Grange Farm Avenue, IP11 2XD 01394 670107 www.havenhealth.nhs.uk

Orwell Clinic (iCaSH Suffolk)

The family planning center in Ipswich also serving Felixstowe. Lindbergh Road, Ipswich, IP3 9QX 0300 300 3030 www.icash.nhs.uk

East of England Coop Pharmacy 189 Hamilton Road, IP11 7DT 01394 282325

Hado Pharmacy 135 Hamilton Road, IP11 7BL 01394 286277

NHS 111 NHS 111 is much more than a helpline – if you’re worried about an urgent medical concern, you can call 111 to speak to a fully trained adviser. Depending on the situation, the NHS 111 team can connect you to a nurse, emergency dentist or even a GP, and can arrange face-to-face appointments if they think you need one. NHS 111 advisers can also assess if you need an ambulance and send one immediately if necessary.

What’s On in Felixstowe

FELIXSTOWE’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE EVENT GUIDE IN PRINT

Mondays

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club

7.30am-9.30pm

Felixstowe Leisure Centre 01394 694600

Parent & Toddler Group

(term-time only) 10am-11.30am

Parents/carers enjoy a chat whilst the children play together. There are organised activities for the children, drinks and biscuits. Salvation Army, Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL. 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

Felixstowe Old People’s Welfare Association 10am-4pm

At Senior Citizens Centre Broadway House Orwell Road 01394 278061

BASIC Pop-Up Shops @11am-12noon

Trimley Welcome Hall, 182 High Road, Trimley St Mary, IP11 0SS. Visitors simply buy a bag for £1 (a maximum of 2) and help themselves. There are absolutely NO questions or qualifications - simple. Everybody is welcome. 01394 276171.

A V A GO Art Group

Tuesdays

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club 7.30am-9.30pm

Felixstowe Leisure Centre 01394 694600

Parents and Toddlers 10am (term time only)

1.30-4.30pm

For pros and amateurs. Refreshments incl. £3. St Edmunds Hall Langer Road 01394 275690

Felixstowe Community Choir

Felixstowe United Reformed Church Tomline Road Felixstowe Suffolk IP11 7PA

Felixstowe Old People’s Welfare Association 10am-4pm

At Senior Citizens Centre Broadway House Orwell Road 01394 278061

The Felixstowe Master Mariners

7.30pm

At the Orwell Hotel Hamilton Road £4p/p on the door felixstowecommunitychoir.org.uk

Ballroom Dance Class

7-9pm

Beginners and intermediate dance classes. £10 per couple. Trimley St Martin Memorial Hall 01394 282285 07801 933173

(every third Tuesday)

A luncheon meeting at Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club. secretary@mastermariners.uk www.mastermariners.uk

A small, friendly club that meets on Tuesday afternoons. Tea/coffee and biscuits are available. A host system operates and so a partner is guaranteed.

Suffolk & Felixstowe Bowls Club Between Platters Road and St Edmunds Road 01473 727537 bridgewebs.com/felixstowe/

Felixstowe Garden Club Society

(Second Tuesday of the month) Kirton Church Hall. £5. 448415/ 286626.

Dance Lessons

Childrens and adult beginners and intermediate. St. Edmund’s Hall Langer Road 07757 217456

BASIC Pop-Up Shops

Badminton 7pm (Sept-April)

Felixstowe United Reformed Church, Tomline Road, IP11 7PA

Orwell Connections Choir 7.15pm

The Choir started in 1986, we are a happy friendly group of singers, who enjoy singing together and perform charity concerts. Come and join us, no auditions required. The Convent, 63 Orwell Road. 07570 110660 orwellconnectionschoir@gmail.com

Felixstowe Scribblers (First and third Tuesday) @7.30pm ‘The Room at the Top’, Felixstowe Library, Crescent Road IP11 7BY. Long established writers’ group that was formed over 40 years ago. A variety of homework assignments are set to be read out at the following meeting, with feedback provided. New members welcome. Annual fee of £30, or £5 per meeting. Refreshments.

(Every second Tuesday)

Old Felixstowe Community Centre 01394 284647

Over 50’s Walking Football in Felixstowe 1pm

IIf you are interested, all you need is a pair of trainers, jogging/sports bottoms. In winter this group plays under floodlights. New members to groups are welcome.

Brackenbury Sports Centre High Road East, IP11 9JF 01394 270278

@11am - 12noon St Phillips Hall, Wadgate Road, Felixstowe, IP11 2LP. Visitors simply buy a bag for £1 (a maximum of 2) and help themselves. There are absolutely NO questions or qualifications - simple. Everybody is welcome. 01394 670090.

The Felixstowe Area Social Club for Retired Persons (2nd Tuesday of each month) 2pm

Old Felixstowe Community Centre, Ferry Road. Call Stephen or Carol Cox on 01394 809794.

Felixstowe Harmonies 7.30-9.30pm (during school term) St. Mary’s Church Hall, High Road, Walton, Felixstowe. felixstowe.harmonies@gmail.com. felixstoweharmonies.co.uk t: @FelixstoweChoir fb: @felixstoweharmonies

Anglo Scottish Dancing 7.30-9.30pm

£3 per session (first one free). Term starts 10th Jan throughout year excluding school holidays. Contact Libby Wragg 01473 721270

Trinity Methodist Church Hall 26 Hamilton Road IP11 7AN

Deben Flower Club

Felixstowe Bridge Club

Wednesdays

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club

7.30am-9.30pm Felixstowe Leisure Centre 01394 694600

Felixstowe Old People’s Welfare Association

Friends Together Street Dance

6.30-7.30pm

For 7-15 years old. Brackenbury Sports Centre. 07549130959 justjaydance.co.uk

Cuppa Book Club

10am-4pm

At Senior Citizens Centre Broadway House Orwell Road 01394 278061

Music & Movement 10.30am

Gentle exercise to music with time for coffee and a chat. Felixstowe United Reformed Church Tomline Road Felixstowe Suffolk IP11 7PA

Pushchair Pitstop

(Every third Wednesday) 11.30am-2.30pm

Pop in for a free coffee and a cake. Nappy change and a natter. Bring and take baby and toddler clothing toys and more. Everything is FREE!

St Edmund’s Church Langer Road Contact Penny on 07901 950768.

1-3pm

Friends Together meet weekly for tea and coffee, occasionally a guest speakers or other activities. We offer a varied programme, which includes Christian music and a Christian “thought” in every meeting. Men and women of any age are most welcome to attend. Salvation Army Cobbold Road, IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

Carpet Bowls 2pm

Felixstowe United Reformed Church Tomline Road Felixstowe Suffolk IP11 7PA

Evenings.

Cuppa, 81 High Road West IP11 9AA. Run in conjunction with the Felixstowe Book Festival, the Cuppa Book Club will focus on authors attending the Festival. Admission free. Refreshments available to purchase. felixstowebookfestival.co.uk.

Variations Choir @7.15-9pm

The Function Room Conservative Club 28 High Road West IP11 9JB 01394 273306

Thursdays

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club

7.30am-9.30pm

Felixstowe Leisure Centre 01394 694600

Felixstowe Old People’s Welfare Association

10am-4pm

At Senior Citizens Centre Broadway House Orwell Road 01394 278061

Felixstowe Twins Club

Explorers

5-6pm

Informal time of singing, crafts and story time for children aged 5-11 years. Salvation Army Cobbold Road IP11 7EL 01394 284610 info@felixsa.org.uk www.felixsa.org.uk

Over 50’s Walking Football in Felixstowe

(Third Thursday of the month) 7.30pm

A warm welcome awaits. The Brook Hotel, Orwell Road, IP11 7PF felixstowespeakers.org.uk

10am-12noon

The sessions run every week including during the school holidays, when we welcome older twins and siblings into the group.

Orwell High School, IP11 9EF. felixstowetwinsclub.co.uk

BASIC Pop-Up Shops

6.30-7.45pm

If you are interested, all you need is a pair of trainers, jogging/sports bottoms. In winter this group plays under floodlights.New members to groups are welcome. Brackenbury Sports Centre High Road East, IP11 9JF 01394 270278

Felixstowe Con Club Bridge Club 7-10pm

Playing rubber and duplicate on alternative weeks. Tuition can be made available for those interested. Call Don on 01394 282959

The Felixstowe Area ‘N’ Gauge Model Railway Group

(First Thursday of the month). 7.30pm 01394 277211 felixstowengauge.org.uk

@11am - 12noon

St Peter & St Paul’s Church, Church Road, IP11 9NF. Visitors simply buy a bag for £1 (a maximum of 2) and help themselves. There are absolutely NO questions or qualifications - simple. Everybody is welcome. 01394 670940.

All welcome. felixstowephotographic.org.uk

Speakers of Felixstowe

Martello’s Ladies Circle

(First Thursday of month) 8pm Pauline Owen Old Felixstowe Community Centre 07972 118 576

Fridays

Various activites for children

9.30-11am

To find out about the variety of children’s activities please contact:

Felixstowe Library Crescent Road 01394 694880

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club 7.30am-9.30pm Felixstowe Leisure Centre 01394 694600

Felixstowe Old People’s Welfare Association

(closed Bank Holidays) Homemade preserves, eggs, garden produce and crafts. sandra.meyrick@btinternet.com At The TRIANGLE, Felixstowe temporarily then Felixstowe Library, Crescent Road, (opposite car park) IP11 7BY. 01394 272003 www.country-markets.co.uk

Baby & Toddler Group

@11am - 12noon River of Life Church, Langer Road, Felixstowe. Visitors simply buy a bag for £1 (a maximum of 2) and help themselves. There are absolutely NO questions or qualifications - simple. Everybody is welcome. 01394 276171.

Carpet Bowls 2pm

Felixstowe United Reformed Church, Tomline Road IP11 7PA

Rob’s Spiritual Awareness Centre

(Term time only) 10-11.45am

10am-4pm

At Senior Citizens Centre

Broadway House Orwell Road 01394 278061

A relaxed group for mothers, parents and carers with babies and toddlers. £1 per family. United Reformed Church 47 Orwell Road IP11 7NY

(First Friday of the month) @7-10pm

Open to all faiths, denominations and beliefs. £2. Trimley Welcome Hall Trimley High Street robert.lummis@ntlworld.com

Felixstowe Country Market BASIC Pop-Up Shops

Saturdays

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club 8am-4pm

Felixstowe Leisure Centre 75 Undercliff Road West IP11 2AE 01394 694600

Baby Ballroom Lesson 9am £3

St. Edmunds Church Hall Langer Road 07757217456

Parkrun

9am

A 5km timed run, register once online before you run. Open to all. Free entry. The event takes place at Undercliff Road W, IP11 2AE https://www.parkrun.org.uk/ felixstowe/

Felixstowe Old People’s Welfare Association

9.30am-12.30pm

Pop in for a cuppa. Meet old and new friends and relax. Senior Citizens Centre Broadway House Orwell Road 01394 278061

Felixstowe Country Market (Second Saturday of the month).

10am-11.45pm Homemade preserves, eggs, garden produce and crafts. Old Felixstowe Community Centre, Ferry Road. 01394 272003 www.country-markets.co.uk

Sundays

Felixstowe Indoor Bowls Club 8am-4pm

Felixstowe Leisure Centre 75 Undercliff Road West IP11 2AE

Litter-Pick with Litter-Free Felixstowe

BASIC Pop-Up Shops

@11am - 12noon Every Second Sunday

From 1pm St.Michaels & All Angels Church. Visitors simply buy a bag for £1 (a maximum of 2) and help themselves. There are absolutely NO questions or qualifications - simple. Everybody is welcome. 01394 276171.

Felixstowe Sunday Market

11.30am-1pm

This group was created to ensure we tackle the issues of litter across the town to ensure that no plastic waste ends up in the sea. It is a local response to the global crisis in our oceans - we want to protect wildlife and the entire Eco-system. We want to act as a community and inspire everyone including residents, visitors, businesses, shipping lines and hauliers to take action. We will be organising litterpicks to include beaches, parks, woodland & hedgerows and grass verges. Let’s make Felixstowe the UK’s first Litter-Free town - let’s do this together. Various locals. Join our facebook group for details:@Litter-free Felixstowe

Sea Road, IP11 2DN

Sunday Lunch with The Felixstowe Area Social Club for Retired Persons

(bi-monthly) 2pm

New members welcome. Old Felixstowe Community Centre, Ferry Road Call Stephen or Carol Cox 01394 809794

9am

Manning’s Amusements

Evenings

The Alex 123 Undercliff Road West www.jazzeast.vpweb.co.uk.

Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that event details are correct, please check with the organisers when attending for the first time. With thanks to all organisations and Visit Felixstowe for their event information. To submit an event for the magazine email us at: info@thefelixstowemagazine. com.

PROMOTE YOUR EVENT HERE

QUESTIONS QUIZ Where in Felixstowe

1. In which part of your body would you find the cruciate ligament?

2. What is the name of the main antagonist in the Shakespeare play Othello?

3. What element is denoted by the chemical symbol Sn in the periodic table?

4. How many of Henry VIII’s wives were called Catherine?

5. What was the most popular girls name in the UK in 2022?

6. What is the name of the 1976 film about the Watergate scandal, starring Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman?

7. Which comedian was the second permanent host of Never Mind the Buzzcocks after Mark Lamarr?

8. Which popular video game franchise has released games with the subtitles World At War and Black Ops?

9. In what US State is the city Nashville?

10. Which rock band was founded by Trent Reznor in 1988?

11. What is the currency of Denmark?

12. Which Tennis Grand Slam is played on a clay surface?

13. In which European country would you find the Rijksmuseum?

14. How many films have Al Pacino and Robert De Niro appeared in together?

15. What was the old name for a Snickers bar before it changed in 1990?

16. Who was the head of state in Japan during the second world war?

17. What is the smallest planet in our solar system?

18. Who wrote the novels Gone Girl and Sharp Objects?

19. Which legendary surrealist artist is famous for painting melting clocks?

20. Which football club plays its home games at Loftus Road?