Volume 10 • Issue No. 11 • MARCH 2021 Your free local community magazine: essential local news, services & information delivered through your door every month ™©

Inwith Melton, RendleshamTouch & Woodbridge www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk Town Council announces new initiatives and events See page 6

Tide Mill Museum joins Heritage Compass See page 9

Image by Robyn Fayers

www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 1 Life | Land | Business

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2 In Touch online: Published by: A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP It’s Sunday 7 February and I have a dilemma. I’ve just received a message informing me that the school is closed tomorrow due to snow. My dilemma: do I tell Jack or not? If I tell him he will spend the entire day watching EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins The Simpsons or pleading with me to go outside so he can pummel me with snowballs! If I don’t tell him, I can T: 01473 400380 quickly devise a fake lesson plan and… Send editorial copy to: Then again, a day off for him means no home-schooling for me. Oh, what bliss! A Monday without cajoling, [email protected] Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and persuading, coaxing, pleading… A Monday where I don’t have to answer the same question (Why do I have to show photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the my workings out if I know the answer?) at least 20 times or have to grit my teeth when I’m told I don’t understand right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss. how it’s done NOW. What am I thinking? That’s not a dilemma! It’s a magnificent, beautifully wrapped bonus and I hope I’m not the only home-schooling mum who thinks so. ADVERTISING T: 01473 400380 I suspect my lovely son is less argumentative in the classroom but, even if that is the case, I am more convinced E: [email protected] now than ever that teachers are extraordinary people with super-human skills. I suspect home-schooling has DISTRIBUTION doubled their workload, but they don’t get to enjoy snow days. I suspect they don’t even get to enjoy weekends Tree Martin: 01473 400380 at the moment. E: [email protected] Children are unlikely to thank you for their efforts, at least now right now, but on behalf of struggling parents PRINTING ColourPlan Print: 01473 400379 everywhere, I just want to say, ‘thank you, thank you, thank you’! E: [email protected] With Census Day approaching, it’s strange to consider how this ‘era’ will be portrayed in years to come. Several Disclaimer: books have already been published with titles includingThe Plague (predictable!) and Priestdaddy (less predictable), The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is and my favourite, How We Live Now. taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any Will the Covid-era become rich fodder for books and movies, love stories and thrillers, tragedies and tales of responsibility for errors or omissions. survival against the odds? Our darkest hour turned into a battle against an invisible assassin. Brief encounters While reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ never fulfilled. Beautiful minds making life-saving discoveries. Instead of weapons and financial sanctions, the editor will not accept responsibility for any heroes will wear white coats – or spend their weekends recording ‘how to’ videos for primary school children who unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. (in my view) could be a little bit more engaged! They will, however immediately investigate any written complaints. The vaccination programme alone will surely inspire several dramatic scripts, all-consuming tales where the lead © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. characters contend with logistics, bureaucracy, apathy, resources, safety, antagonism… even snow. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly All this is happening right now so we don’t need movies and books to make it real. We live this each and every day or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. and our heroes are many. They pick up our prescriptions, deliver our food, direct us to vaccine centres, clear the snow, care for our loved ones in hospitals and care homes, they make and bake and sew and smile, they care… and © In Touch with Stowmarket & Stowupland is published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd we must fight on even when the walls close in and we feel it’s more than we can bear. We know this isn’t going to end at a specific time on a specific date but we have cause to be cautiously hopeful. I hope you don’t experience too many low-points before we reach a happy ending and the credits roll but do take a moment to consider the magnitude of what’s Printed on gloss paper from FSC certified sources happening right now and the real-time heroes who deserve our adulation. Please recycle. IN TOUCH TITLES • Stowmarket & Stowupland • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew IN TOUCH NEWS • Melton & Woodbridge • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley QUARTERLY ISSUE: FEBRUARY 2021 We are now working with Heartbeat (East Suffolk) to produce PULSE, a quarterly • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, magazine delivered to Heartbeat members and given to heart patients and family Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon members at hospitals and clinics across the region. HEARTBEAT (EAST SUFFOLK) MAGAZINE • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall & Warren Heath Our first edition has just left the building and we’re rather proud of it. In fact, you • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, might like to read it as there’s quite a lot of general interest content, funny stories, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden puzzles, jokes, a wonderful poem by Jan Devey and a word search. You’ll find a & Woolpit PULSE link on our home page: www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk • Needham Market & The Creetings • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Several of our clients have joined with us to support Heartbeat and we hope others Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton & Woolverstone will follow suit.

• Martlesham BY HELEN HOTSON PHOTO Heartbeat (East Suffolk) is a self-help group providing support and information to • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton EAST SUFFOLK CARDIAC SUPPORT GROUP ‘Big enough to cope, small enough to care’ • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford www.heartbeateastsuffolk.org.uk those within the region who have heart problems. It raises funds to install and Heartbeat (East Suffolk) Charity Commission1 Registered Number 800632 & Stratford St Mary maintain defibrillators (27 so far) and to provide care packs for emergency patients. • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) With more support, we will endeavour to raise the profile of Heartbeat and help this relatively small charity carry • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone on doing so much to support members and to protect others by making defibrillators widely available. & Washbrook The rate card is also available online and the next edition comes out in May 2021. • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead • Westerfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall KEEPING IN TOUCH We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe keepingintouchwith.co.uk / spotlightmagazine.co.uk / vanilla-magazine.co.uk Wed 10 March Twitter: @InTouchEast / @vanillamagazine is the advertising and Instagram: @mansionhousepublishing / @vanilla.magazine editorial deadline for Facebook: @mansionhousepublishing / @vanillamagazinesuffolk the April edition www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 3 NEWS

DO YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW NEED HELP DURING THE PANDEMIC?

WOODBRIDGE EMERGENCY RESPONSE GROUP IS STILL HERE TO HELP YOU, WITH: • INFORMATION • FOOD PARCELS • SOMEONE TO TALK TO JUST PHONE THE EMERGENCY HELPLINE ON 01394 383599, LEAVE A MESSAGE AND WE WILL GET BACK TO YOU

ESSENTIAL SHOPS OPEN IN WOODBRIDGE DURING LOCKDOWN 3 ACCORDING TO GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES From 6 January 21 / correct at time of going to press / take-aways not included We are very grateful to Woodbridge Town Council for providing this list which we hope you will find useful. Perhaps it’s one to cut out and keep for future reference, though we will provide an update next month if the lockdown is set to continue.

FOOD SHOPS/SUPERMARKETS/OFF-LICENCES/ HEALTH & BEAUTY GARDEN CENTRES *Delivery Service Available Notcutts + Delivery Service Ipswich Road 01394 445400 Co-Op Supermarket* Turban Centre 01394 385837 Dobbies + Delivery Service Grundisburgh Road 01394 380022 Co-Op Foodstore Hasketon Road 01394 383202 HARDWARE STORES Co-Op Foodstore Old Barrack Road 01394 380048 Webbs Hardware (9am-1pm) Church Street 01394 382183 The Fishbox (Tues-Sat) Turban Centre 07790 915686 BUILDING SUPPLIES Woodbridge Greengrocers* Turban Centre 01394 386298 Jewsons Sun Lane 01394 385544 Holland & Barrett Thoroughfare 01394 380444 BANKS/BUILDING SOCIETIES Grape Tree Thoroughfare 01394 548390 IBS (Existing Customers) Thoroughfare 01394 380537 Creaseys Butchers* Turban Centre 01394 386739 Yorkshire Building Society Thoroughfare 01394 744739 The Cake Shop* Thoroughfare 01394 382515 Barclays Bank (Except Wed) Church Street 0345 734 5345 The Bakehouse New Street 01394 384398 Lloyds Bank Thoroughfare 0345 3000 000 The Deli (Tues-Sat) New Street 01394 386620 HSBC Thoroughfare 0345 740 4404 McColls Thoroughfare 01394 387342 DRY CLEANERS Quality Clean (8.30am-noon) Thoroughfare 01394 385220 Warwick Convenience Store* Warwick Avenue 01394 382476 COOK* Thoroughfare 01394 384878 Warrick Convenience Store (6am-8pm) 01394 382476 NEWSAGENTS Saltpeter Wines* New Street 01394 447983 Little Waitrose (Shell) Grove Road/A12 01394 385951 W H Smith Thoroughfare 01394 385240 Savers New Street 01394 610468 CYCLE SALES AND REPAIRS/CAR PARTS Hasnips Church Street 01394 387382 Open-Air Market Thursdays on Market Hill AC Autoparts Old Barrack Road 01394 388341 Prime Convenience Store Old Barrack Road 01394 383146 OPTICIANS PHARMACIES Specsavers (appointments only) Thoroughfare 01394 625300 Boots Thoroughfare 01394 383548 Eye Practice (appointments only) Thoroughfare 01394 382718 Woodbridge Pharmacy Thoroughfare 01394 382006 Burrows & Sunaway Thoroughfare 01394 383211 Waterton Pharmacy Ipswich Road 01394 615555 Steven Dewberry Quay Street 01394 385130

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Bury St Edmunds | Cambridge | Ipswich | Norwich www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 5 NEWS

COUNCIL TAX FREEZE TO FURTHER SUPPORT RESIDENTS In response to the challenges faced by local communities during the pandemic, East Suffolk Council is planning to freeze its element of council tax for the coming year. East Suffolk Council’s draft budget for the 2021/22 financial year, which was A RAFT OF NEW INITIATIVES approved by Cabinet on Tuesday 2 February, will see an overall spend of £129 AND FACILITIES million committed to delivering essential services across 57 different service areas in the coming year. As the new financial year draws nearer, Woodbridge Town Mayor Councillor Sue Bale reflects upon the work the town council has undertaken inthe To provide further financial support to residents during the pandemic, there last 12 months to ensure that Woodbridge continues to be one of the most will be no increase to East Suffolk Council’s element of council tax; with a popular places to live and to visit in Suffolk. property in Band D paying £171.27 for 2021/22 (£14.27 per month), which is the same as in 2020/21. “As always, the town council focuses on giving our residents access to excellent facilities but this year, like so many others, we have faced particular The council’s budget is made up of contributions from council tax, business and unexpected difficulties. We have met the challenges of 2020 head-on rates and smaller contributions from central government grant schemes. and have dedicated ourselves to finding positive and meaningful ways to Council tax contributions will account for £14.95 million of the budget. Less make things better. than 10% of each household’s council tax bill goes to East Suffolk Council, with the remainder going to Suffolk County Council and the Police & Crime “Some of the recent initiatives I am most proud of include alleviating the Commissioner. stress of the pandemic for those most in need, including providing free school meals and computers for children. We also set up the Emergency Response Covid-19 has presented significant additional financial challenges for the Group to offer a lifeline to elderly and vulnerable members of our community, council. However, robust reserves have enabled the council to continue delivering food parcels to those in need as well as hundreds of prescriptions. to thoroughly support residents, communities and businesses during the pandemic whilst remaining financially sustainable. This is a key ambition within “Woodbridge’s historic waterfront and the Pavilion Café have also the council’s Strategic Plan, ensuring the council provides value for money to been developed in line with our long-term community plans, as has our residents, delivering the best services possible and being commercially astute commitment to climate emergency work and re-wilding some of our to generate income that can be further invested in services. open spaces.” Cllr Steve Gallant, Leader of East Suffolk Council said: “It is essential that we The town council’s plans for the next year and beyond include lots of deliver a balanced budget, year on year, which enables us to continue to opportunities for families and visitors to enjoy themselves again after provide essential services and support to our residents. the misery of repeated restrictions and lockdowns. Headline activities for the coming year include: “The pandemic has seen many residents with reduced income and many more with serious concerns about maintaining their financial security. • A substantial upgrade to the Kingston Field Playground, with the Whilst only a small percentage of each household’s council tax bill goes to installation of new play equipment for able-bodied and disabled children East Suffolk Council, we hope that freezing our element of this year’s bill will • A new pedestrian footbridge and step-free wheelchair-friendly footpath provide further support for those in need. to link the Avenue Car Park with the Kingston Field play area and Elmhurst Park “We are an ambitious council and our aspirations, as detailed in our Strategic • Financial support for public events (as government guidance permits) Plan, focus on growing our economy, caring for our environment, supporting the most vulnerable within our communities, and using technology to make • A series of fun and educational holiday workshops in Elmhurst Park services more efficient and easily accessible. Our current financial stability • The first phase of a 20mph zone in the town centre and riverside will enable us to deliver on these ambitions.” area to ease pedestrian and cycle access, improve safety and reduce carbon emissions Cllr Maurice Cook, East Suffolk’s Cabinet Member for Resources said: “We • Plans to address much-needed repairs to the Shire Hall are in a well-balanced financial position for the year ahead, which has been achieved by using our reserves which are set aside for emergencies, such • Support for young people to meet socially and contribute their ideas as the pandemic. The outlook is uncertain due to the additional financial for the town challenges of the pandemic however our robust reserve position has enabled Mike Sutton, chair of the council’s finance committee, continues: “In setting us to meet these challenges and at the same time, freeze our element of the budget for 2021/2022, we have made prudent use of our reserves to council tax for 2021/22. ensure that we can achieve our aims for as little as 17p a week extra for those “The pandemic has caused financial difficulty for the council but more so for paying Band D council tax.” our residents and we want to ease those difficulties wherever possible.” For more information about Woodbridge Town Council’s activities, plans and As part of the budget setting process, the council is required to agree a committees please visit: woodbridge-suffolk.gov.uk/about-us four-year programme of capital expenditure that focuses on the delivery of essential projects and ensures resources are aligned with the council’s Strategic Plan. The programme, which was approved at Full Council on Wednesday 27 January, aims to maximise resources by actively seeking external funding and making efficient use of council assets and commercial opportunities. The council will also look at decreasing its overhead costs by championing major energy-saving projects such as the addition of solar panels to council- owned assets and car parks. Earlier this year, residents and businesses were invited to comment on the council’s spending priorities to ensure the 2021/22 budget accurately reflected the needs of local communities. 6 In Touch online: www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 7 8 In Touch online: NEWS

WOODBRIDGE TIDE MILL MUSEUM EAST SUFFOLK HOUSEHOLDS ASKED JOINS HERITAGE COMPASS TO FOLLOW BIN RULES Woodbridge Tide Mill Museum has joined Heritage Compass, a business support programme funded by Households in East Suffolk are being reminded to follow bin guidelines the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Working with as more household waste is created during national Covid-19 Creative United and the Arts Marketing Association, restrictions. this new programme has been designed to grow resilience and invigorate People are spending more time at home due to national Covid-19 the heritage sector across England. restrictions and East Suffolk Council is asking households to ensure Heritage Compass works with 150 small and medium heritage organisations they are following the bin guidelines set out by the council to help across the country. The programme is designed to allow a wide range of refuse teams efficiently provide an essential service. organisations to build their resilience through working together, as well as Cllr James Mallinder, Cabinet developing their separate strategies. Organisations gain tailored training, Member for the Environment, said: mentoring and peer learning so that they may develop strategies and progress “With more people spending time as part of a dynamic new cohort of heritage organisations. at home due to national restrictions, John Carrington, Chair of the Trustees of we’re seeing more household waste Woodbridge Tide Mill Charitable Trust, said: than ever before, putting added “Woodbridge Tide Mill is delighted to be part pressure on our refuse teams. of the Heritage Compass Business Support Unfortunately, we’re also seeing Programme. The current Grade I listed mill an increase in bad bin etiquettes, was built in 1793 but there has been a mill on which can not only prevent the refuse team from collecting waste the River Deben overlooking Sutton Hoo since but be a nuisance to neighbours before 1170. and obstruct footpaths. “During the pandemic, our team of volunteers “Our refuse teams are working has been developing a programme to build extremely hard under very difficult on the mill’s digital resources to improve the circumstance, so it is very important in-person and digital visitor experience. The that we all do our bit to help them Heritage Compass Programme will significantly provide this essential service that we’re all relying on more than ever help to equip us to carry out our plans.” and there are some very simple guidelines we can all follow to do so.” The Tide Mill website is: To help ensure an efficient refuse service, East Suffolk Council is asking woodbridgetidemill.org.uk that households follow a few simple guidelines as set out below: To become a Friend of Woodbridge Tide Mill, go to: • Put bins out by 6am latest on collection day woodbridgetidemill.org.uk/be-a-friend • Recycle where possible through the blue bin • Present bin at the boundary of your property where your access CENSUS 2021 WILL PROVIDE A meets the public highway or other agreed collection point SNAPSHOT OF MODERN SOCIETY • Don’t force too much waste into a bin as it can stick inside, meaning it won’t come out when emptied Households across England and Wales will soon be asked to take part in • Ensure bins do not contain any incorrect items, as it may not Census 2021. The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives us the most be emptied accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941. • Ensure the lid on bins are closed for collections, otherwise we won’t be able to empty it It will be the first run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on • Take bins in as soon as possible after collection as they can cause their computers, phones or tablets. a serious obstructions and block access, particularly when left on public pavements and access ways “A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed,” Visit the council website for more information on what items goes into said Iain Bell, Deputy National Statistician at the Office for National Statistics. what bin, to check your bin collection day and to report a missed bin collection: “This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part and we have made www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/waste/waste-collection-and-disposal/ it easier for people to do so online on any device, with help and paper refuse-collection questionnaires for those that need them.” To read more about East Suffolk Council’s recycling Census day is March 21 but households across the country will receive letters strategy, the temporary suspension of the bulky waste service and how to book a slot at one of Suffolk’s with online codes allowing them to take part from early March. Recycling Centres, please scan this QR code. The census will include questions about your sex, age, work, health, The Suffolk Waste Partnership has produced a new leaflet on what can education, household size and ethnicity. For the first time, there will be a and cannot be recycled at home as well as tips on how to recycle other question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as items not accepted in the household bins. well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity. You can find the leaflet :at www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/recycling Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be Picture credit Andrew Kahumbu locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations. For more information, visit: census.gov.uk www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 9 NEWS

OVER £14M PAID OUT TO EAST SUFFOLK BUSINESSES At the end of January, East Suffolk Council had paid out over £14 million to local businesses affected by new national restrictions as it continues to GRANTS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS support them during the pandemic. Each year the Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Since the new restrictions were introduced on 5 January, council staff have is proud to open several grant schemes that fund local community projects. been working hard to ensure local businesses receive the much-needed Two grants are now open for applications! financial support they’re entitled to through the government’s business grant The AONB is seeking applications from community projects that are scheme. innovative, socially inclusive, sustainable, benefit the public and involve partnership working. As part of its response to the new restrictions, the council is automatically making payments of all business grants to eligible businesses based on a Whether you have a project that works in the arts, media, conservation, successful application for the Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG), which learning, heritage, food, health, accessibility and diversity, to give you but has been available since the national lockdown in November 2020, and the a few examples, we welcome your applications. Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG), which is available to those businesses The following grants are now open for applications: who may fall outside the eligibility of the LRSG scheme. • Amenity and Accessibility Fund This means that businesses who have already successfully applied for the For projects in a defined geographical area within the Coast & Heaths LRSG or ARG do not need to do anything, unless their circumstances have AONB. Applications to be received by 3 March 2021 for projects running changed since they applied, as they will automatically receive payments of between April 2021 and the end of March 2022. the grants they’re entitled to. However, businesses that have yet to apply are encouraged to do so now as they will not receive the financial support • Galloper Wind Farm Fund they’re entitled to. For projects within 5km radius of a substation, including Leiston and surrounding parishes. Applications to be received by 3 March 2021 for Cllr Craig Rivett, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “We know projects running between April 2021 and the end of March 2022. that this continues to be a very challenging time for a lot of our businesses, Each grant offers funding to projects which benefit a specific geographic area and we are committed to doing all we can to support them through this. and meet the criteria based around improving the area’s beauty, setting, “Our staff continue to work extremely hard to process and pay out the grants amenity, accessibility or enjoyment of the area. as fast as they can, as we know these are a lifeline to many businesses. It is The closing date for applications is Wednesday 3 March 2021. important to understand that these grants are not loans that will need to be paid back, and they can make the difference between a business closing or For more information, visit suffolkcoastandheaths.org or contact Oka Last, surviving. We want our businesses to come out the other end in the strongest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Grants Officer: possible position to recover, therefore, I urge all businesses who haven’t yet, 01394 445225 / [email protected] to check if they’re eligible for these grants. Even if you’re not sure it is worth checking as we’re not able to make payments to anyone who hasn’t applied through our website.” In total, East Suffolk Council has paid out over £80 million to local businesses in East Suffolk through the government’s business grant scheme since it was announced in April 2020. More information, including details about how to apply with full eligibility MORE FUNDING AVAILABLE TO HELP criteria, can be found at: www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/covid-19-business-grant- TACKLE SOCIAL ISOLATION funding Digital Advice Service A funding programme which supports people struggling with social isolation As part of East Suffolk Council’s commitment to support businesses through and loneliness is now accepting new applications. this difficult time, the council has also launched a free-to-use Digital Advice East Suffolk Council’s Hidden Needs Programme was originally launched in Service which offers small businesses, especially those in the retail, leisure and 2018 to support older people and families with limited resources who were hospitality sectors, with an opportunity to get digital advice and diagnostics. struggling with social isolation and loneliness. In a response to Covid-19, the scheme was relaunched in June 2020 with a fund of £100,000 and adapted The service offers extensive digital business support, a personalised session to help fund projects which supports people of all ages who are particularly with a business growth coach, access to digital growth workshops and vulnerable during this time. group coaching sessions, as well as signposting to other forms of support including a small grant scheme to fund digital changes within a business. Following the success of three previous rounds of applications, a fourth round East Suffolk businesses are urged to sign up for the service by emailing: has now been opened. Applications are invited from local community groups [email protected] and voluntarily organisations who are delivering projects which can help reduce social isolation and loneliness. Grants of up to £10,000 are available For more information on the support and advice available to businesses, through the scheme. go to: https://eastsuffolkmeansbusiness.co.uk/business-support/resources/ covid-19 Cllr Letitia Smith, Cabinet Member for Communities, Leisure and Tourism, said: “The pandemic has caused, and continues to cause, additional challenges for those who were already struggling with social isolation and loneliness. I would encourage community groups and voluntary organisations to apply for this funding which will help support and connect vulnerable people during this challenging time.” Applications must be submitted by 16 April 2021. For more information and to apply, please go to: www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/hidden-needs-grant-programme 10 In Touch online: TOPICS SOUGHT FOR LEGAL ADVICE FILMS

Having teased a solicitor for the legal definition of a waste of space, Topics already suggested include: the comedian Jimmy Tarbuck enlightened him, saying, • Why for two identical families, two identical wills “It’s a coach load of solicitors going over the edge can produce very different results of a cliff with three empty seats.” • How someone’s Will can be altered after their death Notwithstanding, the solicitor is inviting suggestions from anyone, • House purchase documents containing unexpected including solicitors, for topics to feature in a series of films and unnoticed restrictions explaining the ever-changing laws, perhaps to prompt people to contact their own solicitors for further advice. • Why some young, convicted murderers have never killed anyone His directorial debut occurred many years ago with What’s the • The Section 23 Theft Act Hold-up?, a film about buying and selling houses featuring Adrienne • Why putting domestic violence on the school curriculum Posta, the late Bob Holness and others. Applying his knowledge and risks teachers being arrested by their own pupils experience gained both in England and overseas conducting both • How driving on medication prescribed by a doctor civil and criminal cases including in the Royal Courts of Justice and could cause an arrest by police the Old Bailey, the series will be available to solicitors and the public and will include amusing scenes applying advice given to him many • Why a bet on the result of a TV Bake-off which is already years ago by the late Ray Butt, producer of Only Fools and Horses. known is lawful It is a way of having your legal questions answered – free. • Why the Ombudsman Service or the Citizens’ Advice Bureau might not give correct advice Suggestions (which can be anonymous) or inquiries for further information (which will be posted to the inquirer’s nominated • Why many Insurance and mobile phone contracts are unlawful address) may be emailed or sent by post to: • Why some solicitors recommended by estate agents may not [email protected] be ideal FAO Anna, Mansion House Publishing, • Why King Edward VII influenced contract law during the 18-20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP Coronavirus pandemic

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12 In Touch online: NEWS

THRIVE WITH NOTCUTTS DURING LOCKDOWN Crompton Notcutt, was advised to work outdoors due to ill health. It was then that his passion for horticulture began and Notcutts was founded over 120 years ago.” She continued: “We are delighted to have had this opportunity to partner with a charity we have been long-standing supporters and are proud to be involved in making such a wonderful experience accessible to all. It’s been well received, with a survey of students showing a 99 percent positive rating among respondents. With people now spending more time at home we feel it is the right time to encourage more people to learn about the benefits of being in gardens and nature”. The five-hour course, which can be completed over any length of time, is split into three short modules. Suitable for any age and ability, the course includes expert advice and practical ideas on how to engage with Notcutts Garden Centres is proud to have partnered with national charity nature, using interactive activities and video tutorials. Users are encouraged Thrive to help cultivate the nation’s wellbeing through gardening. to develop and implement their own wellbeing plan, even if they don’t have access to a garden. Launched just before the first UK-wide lockdown in March 2020, the ‘Cultivating Wellbeing in Gardens and Nature’ course has been enjoyed Damien Newman, Thrive’s Training, Education and Consultancy Manager, by many, helping them to connect with nature and understand why being said: “Coronavirus and its associated social restrictions have underlined the outdoors is so beneficial. importance of spending time in gardens and nature to maintain good health, and we are delighted this course has helped so many people. We’re pleased The free online course, developed by experts in therapeutic horticulture from that Notcutts’ support means we can make this course freely available and Thrive, has been designed to encourage people to use their gardens to spend hope it will lead to more people using gardens as a pathway to wellbeing as more time connecting with nature as a tool to restore wellbeing and improve they continue to face lockdown and other challenges.” physical and mental health. For more information about Thrive and to access the free course, visit: Caroline Notcutt, Vice-Chairman of Notcutts Garden Centres, said: “At www.thrive.org.uk/nature Notcutts, we have always been passionate about the benefits that gardening can bring to mental and physical health as my Great-Grandfather, Roger To find out more about Notcutts Garden Centres, visit: www.notcutts.co.uk

WOODBRIDGE HOME & AWAY CHALLENGE

Woodbridge School has teamed up with Woodbridge Rugby Club to launch that one particular friend of mine, the new ‘Woodbridge Home & Away Challenge’, taking place from February Abi and her son, Arthur, had run 8 to March 7. around her house 52 times! The first thing that struck me was how The school and club are prioritising the well-being of students and young amusing the tracking map was players by finding a way to help to stimulate them, away from their screens, and then I discovered that she and encourage them to participate in a physical challenge. and Arthur were self-isolating at The ‘Woodbridge Home & Away Challenge’ is open to all students, staff and home and wanted to complete members, as well as to the wider community. The idea is for participants a three-mile run. Unable to to select a destination in the UK that means something to them and their take a traditional running route, household – perhaps a favourite holiday destination, or maybe the university they calculated that 52 laps of their town that they hope to go to – and give a reason as to why this destination is house was bang on three miles. so important to them. “It was this that gave me the idea of They then need to calculate how far the destination is to their home in miles a distance-based physical challenge, and, either individually or as a household, record exercise activities that get which would encourage everyone in the household away from screens them that distance to their chosen destination: it could be walking, running, and mundane tasks to joys of outside and physical activity. Everyone is aware riding or even dancing! Each completed challenge will earn a certificate and of the physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise and I, like automatic entry into a prize draw. Prizes will be awarded by a joint judging many others, can sometimes lack the motivation on dark Winter days. panel for the longest distance covered, the most fun and creative ideas, Hopefully, the ‘Woodbridge Home & Away Challenge’ will provide the images, videos and tracking map diagrams. necessary stimulus for people to get out and get active.” Shona Norman, Head of Woodbridge School, said: “We are really proud to The ‘Woodbridge Home & Away Challenge’ is so-called because it invites be working with Woodbridge Rugby Club on this important joint initiative participants to look ‘away’, whilst still being based at home, and links to help to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of our young people, to ‘home’ and ‘away’ rugby fixtures. Entry forms and joining information during this very difficult third lockdown period. are available on both the Woodbridge School and Woodbridge Rugby Club websites. “It is especially important that we do all that we can to keep our minds and bodies healthy and active at this time. So, whether it is cycling on your daily Entrants are encouraged to post their images and videos on social media exercise, running around your garden or climbing your stairs, we would using the dedicated hashtag #WoodbridgeHomeandAway. love to see how fit and creative you can be, and just how far your lockdown Woodbridge School is a long-standing sponsor of Woodbridge Rugby ‘travels’ will take you!” Club’s Junior Section. Both the school and the club are committed to Paul Simpson, Commercial Director of Woodbridge Rugby Club, explains developing further new health and well-being initiatives together, aimed his inspiration for the challenge: “I found myself scrolling through the at prioritising mindfulness and enabling young people to flourish, all within a achievements of friends on Strava, a fitness tracking app, when I saw safe, nurturing and mutually respectful environment. www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 13 NEWS

COUNCILLOR CAROLINE’S COLUMN As I write, we are looking at schools reopening or two but not in confinement, unable to see or play with friends. on March 8 but that’s far from being a When I was young, my parents wouldn’t see us all day as we were out certainty! playing with our mates. Our games included tag, froggy froggy, British One thing these strange last 12 months has bulldogs, off-ground tig, marbles, skipping, hopscotch, cops and robbers taught us is how few certainties there are in or marauding in the woods or fields or along riverbanks. What are our the world. Another is quite what a complicated poor Covid children going to tell their children? and undervalued job our teachers have been “When I was young I spent months cooped up inside, learning lessons by doing all these years. a screen, my mum helping me while trying to do her job on the other side Teachers haven’t always been treated with the respect they deserve, have of the table.” they? What’s so hard about teaching lessons? A doddle, people said. A It is, as ever, a problem that affects those with less money the most. child could do it, people said. Easy peasy lemon squeezy, they said. What Even if there are only two of you in the house, sharing the laptop your do teachers really do after all? They just stand there and tell our children mum needs for work and you need for your GCSEs or A-Levels, there is a things and mark a piece of paper, then go off for long holidays. I could do significant problem. In a house with more than one child, each following it standing on my head. a different school day with different lessons, it becomes a logistical Now parents, grandparents and other family members are called to put nightmare. I funded nine laptops for Farlingaye students this year but I their money where their mouths were and many have discovered it’s fear it was a drop in the ocean. not such a doddle after all, not remotely easy or peasy or even lemon Let’s hope the magnificent NHS vaccination programme – the biggest ever squeezy. Nobody could do it standing on their heads because teaching – – carries on efficiently so our children can get back to school. When they even supporting home learning – is hard, hard work. get back, maybe clap, in your hearts, for the teachers. You know how much they deserve it. If it’s hard to be a teacher, spare a thought for the children. When we were little, it would have been joyful to be off school unexpectedly for a week Suffolk County Councillor Caroline Page

HELPING EAST SUFFOLK BUSINESSES THRIVE ONLINE Small businesses in East Suffolk are invited to sign up to free support to help their businesses thrive online using digital skills

The Digital Advice Service, launched by East Suffolk Council in November The service is also working as a business support pilot for the East Suffolk 2020, offers free support to small businesses in East Suffolk – especially ‘Smart Towns’ project. The project has a core theme of ‘digital place-making’ those in the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors, who may need help with and aims to support town centres across East Suffolk with the installation of creating or improving their website, online shop or social media presence. free-to-use public Wi-Fi and anonymised visitor monitoring technology with The service offers extensive digital business support, a personalised session accompanying analytics. with a dedicated business growth coach, access to workshops from local In addition, the project aims to deliver an ambitious business and town experts and industry experts and group coaching sessions, as well as support ’springboard’ programme which will offer further digital diagnostics, signposting to other forms of support. workshops and funding for businesses and town councils across East Suffolk. Once enrolled, businesses are also eligible to apply for an East Suffolk This ambitious programme has been funded by the New Anglia LEP’s Digital Grant of up to £1,000 to help them implement new digital changes, Innovative Projects Fund, the Getting Building Fund and East Suffolk Council such as improving a website, installing new online systems or attending internal funding. further training. Cllr Stephen Burroughes, East Suffolk’s Cabinet Member for Customer Cllr Craig Rivett, East Suffolk’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Services, Operational Partnerships and Digital Transformation, said: “We are Economic Development said: “The Digital Advice Service is being provided doing all we can to support our high streets and town centres which have by East Suffolk Council to assist businesses with the challenges they currently been adversely affected by the pandemic. Once the current restrictions have face. It supports our work to revitalise our high streets and enables our eased and businesses can reopen safely, our Smart Towns project will bring a businesses to better adapt to the ongoing challenges of Covid-19. Itisa new vibrancy to our town centres by providing an intelligent and innovative real opportunity to both assess your business’s current digital profile and approach to supporting communities and businesses.” customer reach and learn of new digital skills or products to support your business’s survival and growth.” Smart Towns The Digital Advice Service is being delivered by a team of experts from the Following a successful pilot in Framlingham in 2019, East Suffolk’s ‘Smart Business Growth Coaches Network (BGCN) on behalf of the council. BGCN Towns’ Project is now being rolled out to other market towns across the brings together highly experienced coaches and mentors from around the district including Aldeburgh, Beccles, Bungay, Felixstowe, Halesworth, country to support SMEs and their businesses. Leiston, Lowestoft, Saxmundham, Southwold and Woodbridge. Peter Basford, founder of the Business Growth Coaches Network, said: The project will provide free public Wi-Fi for visitors in the main shopping “One of the key things that local businesses have been calling out for is areas of each town, as well as providing anonymised visitor monitoring more support with digital skills and Business Growth Coaches Network is technology to help town councils and business groups understand how and delighted to be working with East Suffolk Council who have come up with this when residents and visitors use these areas. This data will enable them to innovative way to provide support. We are providing reviews, one-on-one improve services and offerings to attract more visitors, as well as gauging coaching and over 20 workshops to help businesses develop on their journey the success of events and specific promotions. to adapt to the world of having to compete with Amazon and the other huge The project will also deliver a broad business and town support and digital online retailers and organisations.” growth programme to enable improved business and town online presence For more information and to apply, visit: and digital skills across the district. The project will begin in January 2021 eastsuffolkmeansbusiness.co.uk/business-support/resources/smart-towns and is expected to be completed within two-and-a-half years. 14 In Touch online: CarsSmart WOODBRIDGE 01394 461-461

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www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 15 Make This Your New Home

Haughgate House is situated on the outskirts of the historic town of Woodbridge, located closely to the Tide Mill, the last fully functioning Mill in the country. Haughgate House is also acquainted with this history having been built in the 1920’s as a family home for the famous Cobbold family who moved to Woodbridge to get away from the hustle and bustle of the busy Ipswich Dock.

Haughgate House still offers that peace Rooms at Haughgate House are fully and quiet, while it looks proudly onto the furnished, but we also encourage residents to A12. The home is renowned for beautifully bring items of personal value for that homely balancing its modern facilities as well as feel. The home has spacious community respecting its history, creating a homely and areas for residents to enjoy, offering a reading practical home. Being close to the A12 also room, dining room, activities room as well as makes the home easily accessible keeping a community room where Haughgate House residents closely connected with friends and can support day care. Many of the rooms have family as well as the local community. en-suite facilities and communal bathrooms are equipped to the highest standards so that The home prides itself for providing residents can still enjoy the little luxuries such exemplary 24-hour care and staff are as a hot bubble bath in a safe environment. trained to cater for all resident’s needs. There is a varied activity programme The home also offers opportunities for scheduled every day with community staff to progress personally and professionally involvement such as coffee mornings and to ensure that everyone at Haughgate House quiz nights. A mobile library visits every three feels fulfilled and empowered, a happy weeks as well as offering in-house hairdressing, place to live and work. chiropody, trips out and much more.

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16 In Touch online: NEWS

MELTON PARISH COUNCIL A Note from Chairman Alan Porter England Coast Path They say they understand and empathise with the concerns we have Melton Parish Council has submitted a response to the consultation on relating to HGV traffic in Melton but it is important that theseare Felixstowe to Bawdsey stretch of the England Coast Path which runs considered across a wide area. In advance of the community review, they along the river wall through Melton. We have expressed our great would like to offer a meeting with us to discuss our concerns. concern about increased disturbance and the need to protect the precious habitat on the River Deben. The river is home to many species Grants of wildfowl and is a refuge for wintering birds like the Avocet, which is We advertised as far as we could for applications for small grants. Two why it is an important site of special scientific interest. applications were received by the due date and both have been paid. Deben Monitoring Post Melton Primary School: contribution of £500 towards the cost of We have agreed with the Deben Estuary Partnership to site a monitoring Covid-19 related expenditure of c£5k. post on the river here in Melton. We will take photographs regularly and Patients Participation Group at Framfield House Surgery: contribution they will be uploaded to the D.E.P. Facebook page. The team will be able of £158.99 to cover the cost of a portable ECG machine. to keep a close eye on how the coastline is changing and whether there is any need for more interventions to protect the saltmarsh, an important Tennis Court Fencing habitat. The tennis courts are a well-used facility in Melton but the fencing has deteriorated over the years and has been made worse by some Quiet Lanes Consultation miscreants cutting holes in the fencing. We have been patching it up but You may have noticed the green Quiet Lanes total replacement is now required. signs on some roads in other local parishes and now Melton has nominated two roads At a meeting on 6 January 2021, the recreation committee considered for this scheme. Once a route has been quotes from three companies to replace the existing chain link with more designated as a Quiet Lane, walkers, cyclists robust, vandal-resistant panel fencing. and equestrian users take priority over The committee felt that the level of detail and the specification contained motorised vehicles. in one quote made it the preferred option. The decision has been agreed The two roads we have selected as suitable by East Suffolk Council and the fence will be entirely funded by PlayPot, are Lodge Farm Lane and St Audrys Lane. Both a fund put in place before Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) was have been well used by walkers during the recent Lockdowns and taken introduced. This project should take place in March. together they form an arc between Yarmouth Road and Saddlemakers Lane and connect to several footpaths, making a circular route around Melton Road Crossings Consultation the village. The cost of the new signs will be covered by grants available Melton Parish Council has carried out several consultations with Melton to councils supporting the scheme. All residents are invited to give their residents on how money received from Community Infrastructure Levy feedback by emailing the parish council office by 30 April. (CIL) should be spent. The request for road crossings to enable safer passage and reduce speeding along Melton Road has received much Traffic Levels in Melton public support. We hope to have two crossing points installed. We have been raising concerns to Suffolk County Council about the volume of traffic in Melton. Despite the pandemic, it remains similar to Three areas were identified as being natural crossing points: Melton previous years which infers that it will be even higher once the pandemic Playing Fields/Melton Produce, The Spar/John Grose Garage and New is over. It is a difficult situation compounded by HGV traffic to and from Quay Lane/Turnpike Lane. Bentwaters, the state of the ‘kinked’ level crossing and the addition of Working closely with Highways, two locations have been suggested that the container site near Riduna Park. It appears that the traffic volume combine a useful crossing point with the least loss of parking spaces around Bentwaters is nearing its maximum permitted capacity. along Melton Road. The crossings will be island refuges in the middle of A group of parish councils has got together to lobby Suffolk County the road. Council to take some action. For full details visit: Last year Suffolk County Council instigated a review of lorry routing in www.melton-suffolk-pc.gov.uk Suffolk. This review comprises two parts. The first is a technical review, looking at changes to the network such as the capacity of bridges, the If you have any questions or location of new residential and business development and a review of feedback about these proposed all existing weight restrictions in the county. The second is a community crossings, please contact the consultation which will commence in June this year. The community parish office before 15 March. review will give parish and town councils the opportunity to provide Snowy Weather evidence of concerns about HGV movements and routing in their The bad weather has come as a area. The team will then consider this alongside the technical review bit of a blow on top of all the and propose recommendations for changes to the lorry route network other problems we all face. and identify any other changes that might be needed. This county- wide approach is essential as there is a need to consider the impact of Having said that, here’s a lovely implementing a change in one area/community on those communities shot of Burkes Wood by Pip that would then take the HGV traffic to avoid just moving the problem. Alder to gladden the heart.

Cllr Alan Porter, Chairman Melton Parish Council E: [email protected] / Post: 7 Riduna Park, Station Road, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1QT Parish Council Office: 01394 382224 / [email protected] www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 17 NEWS / OUT & ABOUT

WOODBRIDGE LIBRARY Hopefully, all libraries in Suffolk will now be open again but up-to-date information can be seen at: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk Items can be returned to Woodbridge Library outside opening hours via the drop box. To contact the library, phone 01394 330855 or send an email to: A WORD FROM YOUR MAYOR [email protected] COUNCILLOR SUE BALE You can download and stream free eBooks, eAudio, magazines, newspapers, films, documentaries and music. George Bernard Shaw once said: “The single biggest problem in communication Suffolk Libraries is also running online events to enjoy from home via Suffolk is the illusion that it has taken place.” Libraries YouTube channel and at: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/whats-on I guess we can all take lessons from that. On a practical level, the council Excluding bank holidays, customer service for Suffolk Libraries is available has been delivering its annual print-based newsletter for some years Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Leave a message out of these hours. but has decided that a more immediate channel of communication 01473 351249 / [email protected] is via electronic means. Consequently, we have set up a new email system which will enable us to get messages out into the community more easily. WOODBRIDGE ART CLUB If you would like to subscribe to our new system, please use this link, which will take you to the sign-up page: Wild birds bring such joy to many of us and they get a new lease of life as the https://woodbridgesuffolk.gov.uk/home/mailchimp days get longer. The featured pictures were entered into one of our weekly painting challenges and we hope they will lift your spirits. As well as giving you the latest news, we will be asking for your opinion on a range of issues so that the council can make plans with your views We have started running club sessions on in mind. Zoom. Our first session was a demonstration Last month, the council approved its budget for the financial year by professional artist Christine Lester. You 2021/2022. As always, the town council’s focus is on giving our residents can see some of Christine’s pictures in the access to excellent facilities but this year, we have faced particular and members’ gallery on our website. unexpected difficulties like so many others. In many cases, we have On this occasion, Christine gave us lots met the challenges of 2020 head-on and have dedicated ourselves to of ideas for getting back into painting finding positive and meaningful ways to make things better. after a break. Some of us need a bit of The town council’s plans for the next year, and beyond, include lots encouragement to pick up our paintbrushes of opportunities for families and visitors to start to enjoy themselves and enjoy being creative again, and Christine again after the misery of repeated restrictions and lockdowns. Headline Judy Mattin certainly inspired us to do that. activities for the coming year include: Further Zoom sessions are planned for the near future. We find these virtual • A substantial upgrade to the Kingston Field Playground, with meetings are a great way to socialise as well as being an opportunity to learn the installation of new play equipment for able-bodied and new things. disabled children. If you are into (or interested in getting into) painting, drawing, pottery or • A new pedestrian footbridge and step-free, wheelchair-friendly photography, our website will tell you more about the club and how you can footpath to link the Avenue Car Park with the Kingston Field play join us. area and Elmhurst Park. • Financial support for public events (as government guidance Rosie Evans / www.woodbridgeartclub.org.uk permits). Jane Cochrane • A series of fun and educational holiday workshops in Elmhurst Park. • The first phase of the design of a 20mph zone in the town to ease pedestrian and cycle access, improve safety and reduce carbon emissions. • Plans to address much-needed repairs to the Shire Hall. The council has been made aware during the last 12 months that significant repairs are likely to be needed to the Hall, a Grade I listed building. • Support for young people of Woodbridge to meet socially and contribute their ideas for the town. To achieve these aims, we have made prudent use of our reserves. In addition, we have had to make a small increase in the precept. This will Cathy Woodhead mean an extra charge for those in a Band D property of 17p per week. Needless to say, the council is 100% committed to using the funds Jean Taylor Jean Maxwell we receive for the good of the town and the people who live here. Finally, we continue to work closely with our colleagues at the Woodbridge Historic Waterfront and are anticipating an influx of visitors once lockdown is over, boosted by the recent release of The Dig, which has been widely acclaimed, even by relatives Down Under!

18 In Touch online: OUT & ABOUT

INNER WHEEL CLUB OF WOODBRIDGE Whilst we may be fed up with the lockdown and joke about the vagaries of being constantly in the sole company of one’s partner, perhaps one forgets that there are many for whom such close and unrelenting confinement is threatening and dangerous. ALDE VALLEY SUFFOLK At our February Zoom, we learned of the work, care and commitment of FAMILY HISTORY GROUP Lighthouse Women’s and Children’s Centre in Ipswich. Our speaker outlined the initial problems experienced in providing their service when the first Monday 15 March at 7.30pm: Shake, Rattle and Roll lockdown was introduced and crisis calls to the centre dropped off. The centre – A Personal Perspective on Orford Ness by Nigel Turner was aware that the lockdown provided ideal conditions for perpetrators of A native of Leiston who served an apprenticeship at Garrett & Sons, Nigel physical mistreatment and/or controlling behaviour. Turner was employed at the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment After considering the pertaining situation, most of the centre’s services (AWRE), Orford Ness from 1961-1964. and courses were put online and are now running successfully. Of course, In what promises to be a fascinating talk, sprinkled with personal anecdotes, in dangerous situations, arrangements are still put in place for women and Nigel traces the history of the site from its establishment as an airfield at the children who have to flee their home environment. Inner Wheel members beginning of the First World War, through to its pioneering work in support were reminded that children are victims in their own right and help and of military warfare, including the development of radar, testing of the Polaris advice can be, and is, provided for them. missile carried by nuclear submarines and research into the dropping of Lighthouse runs a series of courses for women covering themes such as atomic bombs. anxiety, PTSD, depression, the differences between what is and what is This Zoom-based event is free to members but will also be available to not an abusive relationship and rebuilding lives after domestic abuse. The non-members for £3. If you wish to attend, please register via our website centre also runs a series of well-being workshops which have been very – https://avsfhg.org.uk/events/book – and joining instructions will be well received. Children have not been forgotten either as we were told forwarded by email. that one in three children who have been a victim of abuse may go on to become a perpetrator. If schools have appropriate funding, Lighthouse However, at £6 for a full year’s membership, why not consider signing up can provide someone to talk about healthy relationships. More detailed with this growing band of family history enthusiasts now? information on the services provided by Lighthouse can be found on their website: www.lighthousewa.org.uk Members thanked Sharon Proctor for her initiative in devising the Christmas quiz which raised a good amount of money and enabled the club to donate £400 to Jan Whitaker’s chosen charity, SERV – Suffolk and Cambridgeshire (Bloodrunners). A further donation was made to Lighthouse and members DEBEN ROTARY BUSY IN LOCKDOWN were happy to ratify the committee’s recent decision to donate £200 in support of the recent Farlingaye School Laptop Crisis Appeal to help children We have had three meetings so far in this new year. Four members selected Desert Island without home resource to online learning. their favorite discs, books and luxury items to take onto a as a warm-up after Christmas, followed by excellent presentations by Caroline It was also agreed to make donations to Home-Start and Smile Train. Ten Page on Jetty Lane and Anita Humphrey on Connected Communities, which is knitted blankets are now being stored until it is safe to transport them together managed by Suffolk County Council. with knitted Teddies and hats for the Seafarers Mission at Felixstowe. It was We are still very restricted as to what we can physically do in the community possible to deliver some knitted hats and blankets for premature babies at but we hope to get many of our projects up and running as soon as it is Ipswich Hospital but others are being held for the time being. prudent so to do. Hopefully, projects like the Memory Café and summer fetes Inner Wheel will be 100 years old in 2024. The first Inner Wheel club was will be active by the summer. Please follow articles in local magazines, look founded in Manchester in 1924 and clubs have since spread to 103 countries out for our posters, visit our website and follow us on Facebook so you know with over 100,000 members worldwide. Various discussions are now taking when we are active again. place about how the organisation can be relevant and accessible to all in the However, we have been eagerly looking for new projects and distributing future. Currently, there is a proposal for an i-club (a permanent online club) the funds already raised. So far, we have donated money to one of our local that would enable those who can’t attend meetings in person to belong to primary schools for the purchase of several computers, to a local playgroup our international women’s association. to fund refurbishment, donated several thesauruses to another local primary school, to FIND and Salvation Army food banks and smoke alarms You may be surprised to learn that International Inner Wheel (IIW) has three to vulnerable members of our community. Further afield, we have supported representatives at the United Nations in Geneva, New York and Vienna. IIW United World Schools, Water Aid, Site Savers and Médecins Sans Frontiere. has three key objectives: to promote true friendship, encourage the ideals of personal service and foster international understanding. Any woman who To create funds to enable us to support local organisations, we will be holding shares the three central aims of IIW can join the organisation. another Zoom quiz on Friday 26 March at 7pm and an online cookery and butchery demonstration on Friday 23 April, also at 7pm. These objectives are the same for the Inner Wheel Club of Woodbridge and, whilst our monthly meetings might not reach the heights of a UN meeting If you would like to help us with some of our activities, or just join us at one in Geneva, we can make a difference locally by being of service to our of our meetings, please visit the message for details and send amessage from there. community. Richard Boother, President of Deben Rotary If you would like to know more about Woodbridge Inner Wheel, please visit: https://woodbridgeinnerwheel.org.uk www.debenrotary.org.uk www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 19 OUT & ABOUT

Keith Snell, the speaker at our virtual meeting in January, asked, “But is it Art?”. EAST SUFFOLK U3A GOES ONLINE His talk on art history was most insightful. Keith then went on to illustrate The new year sees a continuation of the difficulties faced byEast creative camera techniques including ICM (intentional camera movement) Suffolk’s U3A groups who are used to meeting face-to-face. and multiple exposures, elevating the camera from a recording device to a creative tool. Members posted their inspired images on our Facebook page. Of the 160+ different interest groups, many now meet online and members continue to learn about and discuss the arts, history, The Ethereal Lady of the Woods science, foreign languages and many other topics. Walking groups Sue Garrod have been hit hardest but members have persisted whenever guidance has allowed. A key – and much-loved – part of U3A’s offering is the regular speaker programme, with talks held at four venues across East Suffolk. They have been cancelled for the time being and will be reinstated By the Lagoon by Steve Stammers as soon as common sense allows. Happily, many talks are available for members to view online. To date, there are nearly 30 available on various topics from Lancashire Witches to John Betjeman! U3A is aimed at older people who want to get as much as possible out of life, even in difficult circumstances. There are no entry qualifications, no barriers to joining and lots of activities to get involved in. New members are welcome. Figures Multi Exp. Keith Pryke If you are interested, please visit the website and make contact In An Introduction to AV (Audio Visual Presentation) on February 1, club with the appropriate group leader to find out how U3A membership member Graham Wood discussed the necessary components of ‘good’ AV can help you keep in touch with others, find new interests and friends such as planning storylines, transitions and matching soundtracks. and learn fresh skills. This was followed by three short software demos. Members were then Membership details are available online or call the membership challenged to create a one-minute video for an AV meeting in May. secretary on 0300 123 3913. The club is thrilled to have four new members this year, bringing the total www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk to 54. For details of our programme and joining details visit www.woodbridgecameraclub.co.uk or our Facebook page.

LICENCE APPLICATION BRIGHT STARS TO VEND ICE CREAM Bright Stars normally run free activity sessions for pre-school aged children with their parents, grandparents, friends, family or carers at Woodbridge Town Council is seeking an individual St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham Heath on the second and fourth or organisation to vend ice cream and refreshments Monday mornings during term time. They usually involve singing, games, from its premises from 1 April 2021. crafts and Bible stories. The licence permits trading from three areas of the town council’s However, due to the Covid-19 restrictions, we are unable to meet in person estate, Elmhurst Park, Broomheath and Whisstocks Place, 365 day per so we’re keeping in touch remotely. We are sending out activity sheets year. The licence fee is negotiable but the applicant will be required by email and/or post for children to enjoy doing at home. We are currently to hold suitable food safety certification, public liability insurance and exploring the story of Creation which has included making a hanging sun, adhere to the town council’s safeguarding policies. Trading is only moon and stars as well as having a go at a spot the difference puzzle. permissible from electric vehicles or bikes/carts. If you have or look after a child/children of pre-school age and would like If you are interested in this opportunity please contact the Locum Town to receive our sheets, please give us a call on the number below. Clerk, Mr Greg Diaper: [email protected] / phone 01394 383599, option 4 If you would like further information, please contact Sonya & Maureen Interested parties will be asked to provide a written submission for Burrows: 01473 625196 consideration by councillors detailing their understanding of the licence, how they will adhere to the policies contained within and their chosen method of vending. The closing date for applications is Wednesday 10 March.

20 In Touch online: SPORT / ON THE GRAPEVINE

Woodbridge Cruising Club is looking forward to the new sailing season. Cruises to well-loved favourite destinations such as the Deben, Ore and Alde, Walton Backwaters, Southwold, Ramsgate and London are being planned (subject to Covid restrictions), as well as the keenly fought model boat challenge which is just as thrilling as a sea voyage. Our March meeting will be held via Zoom, giving club members the chance to hear all about our exciting plans. On Watch, our club magazine, is a great way to keep in contact and members share their nautical stories, as well as delicious recipes. There are also handy boat tips, such as to how to stop GRP boats from going green. The latest issue has memories of working on spritsail barges, as well as a trip on the Caledonian canals and the ever-important update on the Deben Bar. There is also a useful guide to who is on the committee and their roles. BENTWATERS COLD WAR MUSEUM 2020 might be a year many will want to forget, none more so than the museum community, small museuems in particular. At Bentwaters Cold War Museum, located at the former American airbase near Rendlesham just north of Woodbridge, the doors have been closed to the public since the end of the 2019 season. The museum is housed in the original United States Air Force Command Post, a large bunker with three-foot thick walls, narrow corridors and a single entrance which was not designed with the problems of access during a pandemic in mind. Not only was the museum unable to receive visitors but the support organisation, the Bentwaters Aviation Society, normally a vibrant group, had to cancel all meetings and events. Everything came to a standstill. Not to be defeated, the society and museum came up with some ideas to help get through lockdowns and restrictions. There have been regular updates The Sunday talks are always popular and it is hoped they will be reinstated to society members with information and entertainment and updates ib remotely. Captain Peter King is also working hard to organise virtual talks until Facebook and our website for the public. A photoshoot with limited numbers we can all meet in person. outside with social distancing in the summer proved very popular and an online photo competition for members at Christmas attracted a good number, The club runs a programme of events throughout the year (nautical and including American veterans from across the pond! land-based) and members keep in touch in a variety of ways, from the club magazine to social media sites and the excellent club website. If you are The encouragement and kindness of those who support the museum has tempted by the activities, do check out the club website where full details are been tremendous and very much appreciated by the volunteers who work to found. New members are always welcome, whether you own a motorboat keep it maintained and ready to reopen as soon as permitted. or yacht. The biggest challenge has been funding with little income received in 2020. www.woodbridgecruisingclub.org The chairman and museum manager, Graham Haynes said “2020 was a challenging year for us all but with the dedication of our amazing staff, we still managed to complete a few projects and survive the year. Hopefully, the spring will bring the opportunity to open our doors again and we look forward to welcoming you all to see what we have been up to. There has been a great deal of work going on in the background, so I want to thank the volunteers for all that they have been doing, both at the museum prior to lockdown and from home when they couldn’t get in. I sincerely hope you all stay safe and well and we look forward to seeing you at Bentwaters, as soon as we can do so.” Like many other museums, the difficulties are having a real effect and at Bentwaters, there has been a great deal of thought put into how the museum might reopen. An online booking system, controlled entrance and exit, limiting numbers, more ventilation are all under consideration, but it all means more expense and reduced income. A funding programme is soon to be launched to give supporters an opportunity to help where it is needed. Above all else though, the museum is determined to open and share the history of the twin bases of Bentwaters and Woodbridge as we commemorate the arrival of the Americans in 1951 and the huge impact they had on this part of Suffolk. Please visit the website or find us on Facebook. You’ll find membership and donation links, or just give us an encouraging comment or thumbs up! Sketch Submitted by Eugenie Simmonds Simon Gladas / www.bcwm.org.uk www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 21 ON THE GRAPEVINE

BIKE ENTHUSIAST RAISES MONEY FOR MENTAL HEALTH IN SUFFOLK DIARY OF A 20 SOMETHING Local bike enthusiast Jack Taylor is CANCER FIGHTER restoring a 1974 Honda CB550 to raise awareness of mental health and support Book published in memory of Mike Ginn to provide strength and local charity, Inspire Suffolk. hope to others Jack’s love of motorcycles started when Fiona and Mike Ginn were married in he was just two years old, but it wasn’t 2011. Mike was a respected primary until his th 29 birthday that he took the school teacher, football manager and plunge and purchased his first project sportsman. Fiona was enjoying her job motorbike. on the fundraising team at St Elizabeth Hospice. Jack shared his passion with close friend Harley Snowling who sadly passed in In May 2016, their daughter Hope was born. Everything seemed to be January last year. going well until in July 2016, just He explains: “In 2020, I lost a close friend three months after Hope’s birth, their to suicide and it was tough, but the one world was turned completely upside thing that I kept coming back to was down when Mike was diagnosed with how positive Harley always was about leukaemia. He was given just a 20% my progress in building my bike. I’d look chance of surviving past five years. back at our messages and his comments On the day of diagnosis as Mike was on pictures and videos I posted on social admitted into Ipswich Hospital to media and it would make me smile.” receive chemotherapy to fight the As a tribute to his friend, Jack decided to aggressive disease, he started writing buy a tired-looking 1974 Honda CB550, about his feelings which he published similar to his own, and turn it into on an online blog. The blog quickly something Harley would be proud of. became very popular, being read by over 10,000 people both locally and Through fundraising and support from across the world who were inspired local businesses, Jack is securing parts and moved by his story. and donations to fund the build, before raffling the bike off in aid Inspireof Suffolk Mike wrote with such honesty about later this year. the treatment he received and how his diagnosis impacted upon family life. He Jack says: “I’ve chosen to support Inspire noted his reactions and thoughts, providing hard-hitting moments as Suffolk as this is the charity that Harley’s well as humour. It was a real inspiration for readers as his courage and family support. I also believe the work strength in complete uncertainty shone through. they are doing to help local youths onto a positive path is an amazing cause and I After a bone marrow transplant in June 2017, Mike received the hope to do anything I can to support them devastating news that he had relapsed with only weeks left to live. through this project and beyond.” He continued to write his blog until he was admitted into St Elizabeth Hospice to receive end-of-life care. This is when Fiona took over the Once the bike is complete, Jack and Harley’s father, Harvey, will be taking blog, determined to document the remaining few days they had it on tour around the county, as well as taking part in the world-renowned together. Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride to raise awareness of men’s mental health. The care Mike received was incredible. He even had the opportunity The support Jack has received so far from local businesses has been of having Hope come to visit. It was during this time that Mike spoke remarkable and he hopes more will sign up as he continues to document about his wishes for his blog to become a book. the progress. On 23 August 2017, Mike died peacefully. He was just 29 years old and “There are many ways people can get involved with the project and help raise Hope was only 15 months old. funds and awareness. I’m hoping some businesses will be able to offer help with services needed to complete the build. I plan to update every two weeks Now Mike’s wishes have become a reality. The blog called Diary of a on the progress and talk about what I’ve done, who’s helped and where and 20 Something Cancer Fighter: My Journey Through Cancer has been what the money has been spent on.” published into a book and can be purchased on Amazon. Terry Baxter, CEO of Inspire Suffolk, explains: “We can’t wait to watch Jack’s As well as offering hope and inspiration to others and raising awareness project unfold. Not only is it an incredible dedication to his friend, but we of the support provided by hospices, such as St Elizabeth Hospice, the hope it will Inspire other young people to talk openly about their mental book also serves as a keepsake for Hope. health and seek support. With Jack’s help, we will be able to help many more Fiona continues to work at St Elizabeth Hospice and is forever grateful young people in the area through our wellbeing service and educational for the care they give to so many local people. programmes.” Diary of a 20 Something Cancer Fighter: My Journey Through Cancer If you would like to support Jack, you can follow his journey on his Instagram is available as a paperback copy and E-Book. Just search for the title account – @jack_taylormade – or make a donation at: www.justgiving.com/ on Amazon. crowdfunding/BikeFunding For more information about St Elizabeth Hospice call 01473 727776 Inspire Suffolk offers a free wellbeing service for 10–25-year-olds. If you need or visit: www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk someone to talk to and think you could benefit from free virtual counselling, please contact [email protected] or call/text 07720 087487. 22 In Touch online: SUFFOLK March–ing On With the COVID-19 vaccination programme continuing to gather pace it feels like there is some light at the end of the tunnel and with the days getting longer and starting to get a little warmer, we can all look forward to more time in the great outdoors. Setting yourself a challenge is a great way to get active or increase your levels of physical activity and this month we are delighted to bring you information on two of Suolk’s most prestigious mass participation events. The Great East Swim and Great East Run have become established in the Suolk calendar and both events are now open for entries in 2021. Go on why not challenge yourself to taking part in one of these fantastic events.

Great East Swim The Great East Swim will return to Alton Water near Ipswich on Saturday 19th June 2021. With multiple distances available to choose from in a stunning location, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a change of scenery and soak up a sense of normality. For full details visit www.greatswim.org/great-east-swim The event will follow strict covid-secure procedures, ensuring the safety of participants, spectators and Great Swim crew.

Suolk’s much-loved Half Marathon returns in 2021, and this year it’s all about the comeback! The route will take you on a scenic journey through the beautiful Holywells Park, past Ipswich’s vibrant waterfront, under the iconic Orwell Bridge, with a grandstand finish next to Ipswich Town Football ground. Whether you do it for a challenge, to fundraise for charity, or simply for fun, it’s not to be missed! Take your place on the Great East Run start line on the 26th September www.greatrun.org/events/great-east-run The event will follow strict covid-secure procedures, ensuring the safety of participants, spectators and Great Run crew. www.keepmovingsuolk.com

@keepmovingsuolk @keepmovingsuolk @Most_Active To advertise in this section, which appears in 18 magazines in areas across Suffolk and Essex, please contact a member of our sales team on 01473 400380 a member of our sales contact please and Essex, advertise in this section, which appears 18 magazines areas across Suffolk To www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/woodbridge 23