Online-Eye-Directory-Version-22-06

The Eye Directory ©

for residents of Eye and surrounding communities

The Eye Directory is published by

CONTENTS Page

Social Prescribing in Eye and surrounding communities 2 About this edition and making contact with Organisations 5 Mid Suffolk District Council 6 The Eye Archives 7 Voluntary Organisations based in:- Brome & Oakley 9 Eye 9 Other organisations and services based in Eye 24 “Eye Before The Normans” by Andrew Evitt 27 The businesses of Eye and Venues for hire in Eye 30 Voluntary Organisations based in:- Gislingham 40 Horham and Hoxne 41 Mellis and Occold 44 Stoke Ash 45 Thorndon 46 Thornham 47 Thrandeston 48 Thwaite and Wickham Skeith 49 Other Local organisations 50 Regional Charities & Community Interest Companies 51 National Charities with local representation 55 Some Church and Religious links 57 Defibrillators in our local communities 58 Index 59

Social Prescribing

in Eye and surrounding communities

2020 Vision for Health and Wellbeing in 2020 and beyond

Alfred Brendel (Austrian pianist, poet and author) famously stated that the word 'listen' contains the same letters as the word 'silent'.”

Similarly, Epictetus (Greek Philosopher 50 – 135 AD) emphasised that we have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.”

After a 25 year career in social work, it has been my privilege to join Suffolk Family Carers, supporting the provision of Social Prescribing for people living within the towns and villages of Eye and the North West, Mid-Suffolk and Babergh.

Social Prescribing is known nationally by many names. Within this area it is called Connect For Health whilst in other parts of the country and in the media, those undertaking the role have been referred to as Wellbeing Advisors or Community Navigators or Community Connectors. All of these terms sum up the role in a nutshell.

Connect for Health is a FREE confidential service where the Community Connector works with each participant over a series of sessions, to give them the opportunity to discuss any issues which they may be facing and to support them to plan outcomes that will help improve their personal health and wellbeing.

It is an intervention that moves away from the medical model of recovery, and links people, where appropriate, with the support

within their community. It is an approach, adopted within the NHS 2018 Long Term Plan, which recognizes that people’s health is determined primarily by a range of social and environmental factors, and is a partnership between the person and the community, alongside health and social care.

Through listening to people, understanding what matters to them, and by assisting them to identify solutions which are right for them, social prescribing can equip people to take greater control of their own health.

People can be referred for a range of reasons but typically for loneliness or isolation, anxiety or improving their resilience. Successful local outcomes have occurred through the engagement with community resources, and may include volunteering, arts activities, gardening, coffee mornings, befriending, cookery, healthy eating advice or sports.

Although the majority of referrals are received from GP’s, they can be received from any organisation (with the individual’s consent) or directly from the person themselves by calling: 01473 835477 and asking for Connect For Health.

If you would like to know more about the scheme and the benefits to health and wellbeing that it provides, please see further details on the Suffolk Family Carers website:

https://suffolkfamilycarers.org/connectforhealth/

Dominic Nasmyth-Miller Senior Community Connector

The 2020s Eye Directory ©

for residents of Eye and surrounding communities

About this edition: The publication of The Directory is part of a larger project aimed at alerting residents to the wide range of activities and services that are available in Suffolk communities in and surrounding Eye; this larger project also includes the “Eye-to-Eye” “What’s On” email service, and two electronic event information screens, one within the Eye Health Centre, and the other in the window of The Eye Handyman.

Covid19: This Directory was prepared during the Covid19 Lockdown when many events have been suspended or modified. The Directory listings are written to reflect a return to normality, and not Lockdown circumstances.

Eye-to-Eye would like to thank:- + Mid Suffolk District Council for supporting the publication of this Directory through its award of an Emerging Needs Grant. + The Eye businesses that have commissioned advertising space. + Gary Rowland, who has co-ordinated the Business section, and Mary Woodin for permission to use the centre page map of Eye facilities. + Andrew Brown for cover design and technical assistance. + Proof Readers George Maynard and David Orr for their suggested edits. + All contributors to the copy contained throughout the Directory. + Those who kindly volunteered to deliver this Directory to 3,500 households.

Important Notice: The publisher has taken every reasonable precaution to ensure that the content of this Directory is accurate. Any decisions you make after viewing the content are your responsibility, and the publisher cannot be held liable for anything you choose to do, or for any inaccuracies contained herein.

Contacting organisations listed in this Directory: If you need to contact an organisation, and its contact details are not available from a website within its Directory entry, email [email protected], and your message will be relayed to the organisation you specify.

Mid Suffolk District Council

This summary is intended to provide a brief description of Mid Suffolk District Council and the role it plays in all our lives.

Surveys have shown that, when asked, people generally value the public services they receive from local government but are less positive about the institutions that provide them. One of the reasons for this may be that it isn’t always clear who is responsible for what – what does the County Council do that is different to the District, and where does the Town Council fit in?

Mid Suffolk (MSDC) is one of four district councils in Suffolk – the others are East Suffolk, West Suffolk and Babergh. Mid Suffolk and Babergh are served by one organisation with shared staff, systems and facilities, but they are separate councils.

MSDC serves a population of over 102,000 and is divided into a number of wards represented by 32 elected councillors. Like councils at all levels, MSDC meets as a body to take key decisions about the matters for which it is responsible. It is the job of the ward councillor to represent the interests of the ward, and to influence the decisions that are taken.

The responsibilities of MSDC affect every resident. They include: housing, leisure and recreation, environmental health, waste collection, building control, planning - including future plans for the area through to the determination of individual planning applications, public realm (from public car parks through the management of public spaces to public toilets), the development of the local economy and community support. MSDC is also responsible for collecting your council tax on behalf of the County Council and the Police as well as for itself. Importantly, MSDC works with the other public bodies to secure a healthy and prosperous future for Suffolk. More information and links to your Ward Councillor may be found via our website: midsuffolk.gov.uk.

Peter Gould – Ward Councillor for Eye, Occold and Redlingfield

The Eye Archives

by Anne Willoughby

The Eye Archive is an amazing collection of material amassed over a long period of time and given to The Town Recorder for safe keeping and use in articles and exhibitions for the benefit of the community. It has now been given over to be stored centrally so that it can be available for members of the local community to use for research or to follow through personal interest about the local area. Much of the material relates to Town Recording, which looks at the local buildings, people and events through time with photographs, newspaper clippings and articles; as such the changes that have taken place in Eye are recorded.

Other material sometimes feeds in to this recording with personal research by local people on the town of Eye. There are diaries, archaeological reports, local planning reports and local guides and books which have Eye as their theme. Some material is stored in the form of films or sound recordings, mainly digitally on discs or audio tapes. There are a few artefacts which relate to businesses or families from the town.

The major work of cataloguing all this disparate material has resulted in a division between the following headings: Organisations, Events, People, Eye Town Hall, Borough and Town Council, Industry, Health, The Castle, the History of Eye, Churches and the Cemetery, War, Schools, Shops, Buildings and the Busby Collection. Rich pickings if you have an interest in Eye, its families, institutions and history.

Voluntary Organisations

Brome & Oakley

1 Brome & Oakley Village Hall Reg. Charity No 1091952 John Parry

Brome & Oakley Village Hall was originally the village school and converted for community use in 1970. It hosts regular social gatherings in Brome & Oakley including monthly community lunches and coffee mornings, church breakfasts and Friday meetings of Brome & Oakley Community Club. It is available for private parties, meetings etc.

2 Elizabeth Lady Cornwallis Almshouse Trust Registered Charity No. 212875 Dr. Jane Pearse

Accommodation managed by Trustees. Four Grade II listed terraced cottages in the centre of Brome, available from time to time, by application to be an “almsperson”. One-bedroom, two- storey, (almshouses), with common and allocated garden area. Intended for residents of Brome and Oakley in need.

Eye

3 1st Eye Brownies Part of Registered Charity No. 306016 Helen Soper

A uniformed organisation for girls aged 7-10 years old. We meet on Wednesday evenings, giving girls a space where they can be themselves, have fun, build brilliant friendships and gain valuable life skills. To register your interest, go to: girlguiding.org.uk/information-for-parents/register-your-daughter/

4 1st Eye Guides Part of Registered Charity No. 306016 Louise Clifford

A uniformed organisation for girls aged 10-14. We meet 7.15pm to 8.45pm Wednesday evenings at the Stoke Ash Centre (former Primary School), giving girls a space where they can be themselves, have fun, go on adventures, build brilliant friendships, and gain valuable life skills.

5 1st Eye Rangers Part of Registered Charity No. 306016 Louise Clifford

A uniformed organisation for girls aged 14-18. We meet 7.15pm to 8.45pm Wednesday evenings at the Stoke Ash Centre (former Primary School), giving older girls a space where they can be themselves, have fun, go on adventures, and gain accredited qualifications and leadership skills.

6 1st Eye Scout Group Registered Charity No. 267504 Joan Norman

Scouting is all about fun and adventure. We go to camps and hikes as well as learning skills for life. Age

Beavers Wednesdays 5.30pm - 7.00pm 6 – 8. Cubs Mondays 6.30pm – 8.00pm 8 – 10½ Scouts Tuesdays 7.30pm - 9.15pm 10½ – 14 Explorer Scouts Fridays 7.30pm - 9.30pm 14 – 18 We welcome offers of help in all our Sections

7 2nd Eye Rainbows Part of Registered Charity No. 306016 Helen Soper

A uniformed organisation for girls aged 5-7. We meet on Wednesday evenings, giving girls a space where they can be themselves, have fun, build brilliant friendships and gain valuable life skills.

8 490th BG Project UK 490th.co.uk Jackie Aling

The 490th BG Heritage trail across the airfield is now completed and the routes are available at each access point. Each map has a QR code which will connect to our web page where you can source more information on each trail.

9 A Feast of Poetry Pauline Diamond

An informal gathering for people who enjoy poetry and music. We meet on the first Tuesday of the month.

10 Bereavement Friendship and Support Group susanwhymark.co.uk/bereavement-support/ Susan Whymark

A support group for those struggling with a loss of any sort. A chance to meet people who have been through a similar situation and to talk about it. The group meets in the Bank Arts Centre, Eye on the second Sunday of each month between 2.00pm and 4.00pm.

11 Beyecyclists Richard and Rosemary Berry

A sociable, informal and friendly group, cycling c.25-40 miles monthly on the first Sunday. We cycle at a fairly gentle pace & usually stop for a pub lunch.

12 Cinema at Eye cinema-at-eye.org.uk Kit Brinkley and Andrew Brown

Regular monthly shows of the latest feature films presented in comfortable surroundings using high definition projection and surround sound. Our shows are a very social occasion with bar and refreshments, luxury ice creams, and a fun raffle. See website for current programme. Venue: The Eye Community Centre.

13 Dove Players Charlotte D'souza Mario Olmedo (Producer)

We welcome anyone interested in amateur dramatics, in any way, not just acting … singers and musicians, lighting and sound, making props and costumes, back stage, front of house. We especially welcome those with additional needs.

14 Dove Project Luncheon Club Julia Shekleton (sec)

The luncheon club is for isolated &/or elderly people. Friendly, helpful volunteers serve a nourishing home-made lunch in Dove Hall, Dove Lane, on the second and fourth Mondays of every month (except

Bank Holidays) 1 – 2pm. £2.50 per person.

15 Dove Project – Memory Café – ‘Memory Lane’ Julia Shekleton (sec) Tony and Pauline Diamond

Those living with memory loss, including dementia, their family members, carers and others are welcome. Qualified and registered volunteers offer pleasant, inclusive activities. Refreshments, hot drinks and home-made cakes. 3rd Monday of each month, 2-4pm at Elizabeth Court, Eye, IP23 7HP. No charge, but donations welcome.

16 Dove Social Club Jonathan and Jenny Pooley

Over 18s - come and join us for a chat and relaxing afternoon in the Dove Hall, Dove Lane from 2:30pm to 4:30pm Mondays in term-time only. For refreshments, fun games of table tennis, carpet bowls, darts and board games. Come and relax and make new friends.

17 Elderflower Club Tricia Brown

A friendship club for retired & elderly. Monthly meetings (usually on the last Tuesday of the month at Eye Community Centre), tea parties and coach trips. New members, friends and helpers welcome.

18 Eye and District Cricket Club eyedistrict.play-cricket.com Rick Waters Mark Willowe

The Club aims to bring on young cricketers, girls and boys, coaching them on Monday evenings during the season. Some Junior matches are arranged against local clubs. The Senior team play Sundays in 30-over matches. Ground is at the top of Ludgate Causeway. BBQs and Quizzes – all welcome

19 Eye and District Twinning Association eyesuffolk.org/about-eye/twinning-with-pouzauges Anne Smethurst

Free membership. Experience French hospitality, be part of a sociable local group, and enjoy a great community spirit—on both sides of the Channel.

20 Eye and District Volunteer Centre C.I.O. Registered Charity No. 1156968

Our service co-ordinates community transport. We always need volunteer drivers. Office hours: Mondays 10.30am - 2.30pm and Fridays 10.30am – 2.30pm.

21 Eye Archives Anne Willoughby

The Eye Archive is a collection of material collected by the Town Recorder reflecting the life of the town over the last thousand years. It is hoped to make this available to persons or groups who have an interest in the history and development of Eye.

22 Eye Arts Club Registered Charity No 1061143 facebook.com/EyeArtsClub Liz Waugh McManus

Eye Arts Club runs arts and performance projects for ages 7 to 18 with or without additional needs to learn arts skills, develop confidence and have fun. Volunteers welcome. Eye Arts Club projects are usually run on Saturday mornings 10am to 12 noon during term time.

23 Eye Arts Guild eyeartsguild.org.uk Harriet Bowes (membership Secretary)

A friendly group of about 35 aspiring artists of all abilities. Regular events: we meet for practice and tutored sessions every Thursday at Eye Bowls Club and we have outdoor sessions in summer. We hold several exhibitions each year and arrange visits to art galleries.

24 Eye Bach Choir Registered Charity No. 1114948 eyebachchoir.co.uk Jane Bramhall (Sec)

As an experienced choir of long standing we rehearse weekly in term-time for a programme of concerts throughout the year and we welcome applications from Soprano, Alto, Tenor or Bass voices. Rehearsals Fridays (except during school holidays) 7.45 – 9.45pm at St Peter & St Paul Primary School. New members always welcome.

25 Eye Bowls Club (The Borough of Eye)

New playing and social junior and adult members welcome. We have lovely facilities including a BAR, and these are available to hire throughout the year. Regular events: Bowling April to September – everyone welcome to watch / participate.

26 Eye Bridge Club bridgewebs.com/eye Michael (Mike) Barr

Bridge Club - weekly duplicate sessions are held on Wednesdays - see website for current venue. Please arrive by 1.25pm for a prompt 1.30pm start. Visitors welcome.

27 Eye Cancer Support Group Nurse Nikki Boughen

Bringing together Cancer Research, Macmillan Cancer Support, patients, other community services, friends and family to provide support and raise awareness within the local community. Meets first Friday of every month 10.30am to 12.30pm at Eye Bowls Club. Tea, coffee, cakes and scones. Plus various visiting speakers.

28 Eye Church Bell Ringers Adrian Beatty

Join a tradition dating back 400 years. Help celebrate local and national events. Ring for services and other special occasions. Practices: 2nd & 4th Wednesdays 5.00pm to 6.30 p.m., or see notice board in Church porch. New recruits very welcome.

29 Eye Church Shop eyeparishchurch.org/shop Sue Watson

Small shop run by volunteers inside Eye Parish Church. Open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 11 am - 1 pm. Fairtrade food and gifts alongside items bought/donated to support the Church fundraising. Volunteers always required; simple cash handling skills needed and confidence to work by yourself.

30 Eye Community Centre Registered Charity No. 1012697 (Eye Playing Field) Miriam Overy

For hire for business, social, and family events. Large hall with state of the art projection system, surround sound and 4.5m screen ideal for anything from presentations to full cinema screenings. Large comfortable lounge, licensed bar, and ample parking.

31 Eye Country Market Elaine Calvert

Eye Country Market is held every Wednesday in Eye Town Hall (excluding January), usual hours 10-11am. Stalls include plants, fruit and vegetables, food, sweet and savoury, and preserves, crafts, and seasonal variations. Tea and coffee available. Free admission, everyone welcome.

32 Eye District Badminton Club John and Steph Dakin

Friendly Social Badminton for adults of all ages. We play on Tuesday mornings at Hoxne Village Hall.

33 Eye Family Carers’ Group Julia Shekleton

We provide support, information, guidance and relaxation in the form of activities, talks, pampering and trips out, to people who care for their loved ones: friend, family or neighbour. We meet monthly on the first Monday at The Michael Burke Wellbeing Centre, Hartismere Hospital, 1.00-3.00pm. Refreshments available. Annual Membership £20.

34 Eye Garden Club Jacquie Mather

We are a lively group of enthusiastic gardeners who share their passion, their interest and their plants! We meet every second Tuesday in the month at 2pm. (The venues vary)

35 Eye Grammar School Fund Registered Charity No. 273613 Susan Whymark

Grants for young people under 25 living in Eye, Athelington, Bedfield and Horham parishes for expenses not provided by the LEA: books, specialist clothing, tools, instruments, course fees or preparation to enter a trade or profession. Organisations are also eligible for grants. Application forms from Susan Whymark preferably by email.

36 Eye Health Centre Patient Participation Group c/o The Practice Manager, Eye Health Centre

The PPG is a group of patients, who work with the doctors and practice staff at Eye Health Centre to provide a link between patients and staff to improve the services, deal with comments and suggestions and generally promote healthcare.

37 Eye Karate and Fitness Club Toby Pulford – Black Belt 2nd Dan senior instructor, Joe Pulford – Black Belt 3rd Dan, club instructor.

A great way to achieve fitness whilst learning traditional and freestyle Martial Arts including street awareness and self-defence in a fun and friendly environment. All ages and abilities welcome. Sessions:- Wednesdays Fridays 6pm-7pm for Juniors, 6.30pm-7.30pm juniors 7pm-8pm for Adults 7.30pm-8.30pm Adults

38 Eye Library Friends Julie Shepherd

Part of Suffolk’s Libraries Industrial and Provident Society Ltd., an Industrial and Provident Society, a not for profit, independent and charitable organisation. Raises funds for the improvement of Eye

Library and the services it provides to the community.

39 Eye Magazine Editorial and Advertising: Chris Willoughby

The Magazine is published eleven times a year, and is distributed to every household in Eye. Ads/articles to be submitted to the editor by 10th of month preceding publication month.

40 Eye New Age Kurling Group Secretary: Pam Cooke.

Kurling, accessible for all, played on a polished floor. “Stones” are pushed towards the target with a stick so no bending. For anyone 55+, we play every Tuesday 10am to noon at Eye Town Hall. Give it a go and meet new friends. 1st session free, thereafter fees payable.

41 Eye Opportunity Group Registered Charity No. 287907 facebook.com/EyeOpportunityGroup Sanchia Brandreth

Support to families with children (0-5yrs) with additional needs. Volunteers welcome as drivers, for play work, and more. Sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays during school terms plus special holiday activities. We rely on fundraising events to continue to provide this much needed service and we welcome your support.

42 Eye Outdoors Group eyesuffolk.org/eye-outdoors-group Maryanne Henderson

An organisation that promotes outdoor activities in Eye and the surrounding area aiming to encourage people to get out and about for social, economic and health benefits. In 2018, Eye became accredited with the “Walkers are Welcome” National Scheme. For more information, visit our Webpage or contact the EOG Secretary.

43 Eye Pétanque Club Jackie Johnson

We aim to provide an outdoor sport facility for all ages and abilities, in a friendly and sociable atmosphere, and at minimum cost. We play every Sunday and Wednesday from 10.00am until lunchtime throughout the year, weather permitting. Venue: The playing fields at Eye Community Centre.

44 Eye Plodders Walking Group Ray Pattenden

Eye Plodders are a well-established walking group that meets on the third Sunday of the month. Walks start at 10.30am and generally cover a distance of 6 miles. Most walks are within a 10 mile radius of Eye. Walkers receive online information two weeks before a walk.

45 Eye Saints Football Club Kevin Crispin

Eye Saints is a youth football club playing in the SSYL, we have teams ranging from U8 to U15. We are always looking for volunteers for the committee, as managers, as referees and of course new players too!

46 Eye Stroke Support Group stroke.org.uk Stroke Association – Registered Charity No. 211015 Peggy Messer

Meet others affected by stroke. We offer up-to-date information, shared experience, mutual support, outings, exercise, a range of activities, good social contact and fun. We meet monthly 1st and 3rd Thursdays Hartismere Health and Care (The Hospital) 1.30pm- 3.30pm.

47 Eye Town Moors Woodland Chris Willoughby

Work parties 10 – 12 noon, 3rd Sunday/month: managing the woods develops team skills improves the environment and enjoyment of wildlife for everyone.

48 Eye Town Website eyesuffolk.org An online source of information about Eye, and about the extensive range of activities within the town.

49 Eye Women’s Institute Ginny Parmenter. (Sec)

The Woman’s Institute’s main aim is to bring women together for friendship, fun, listening to interesting speakers, and widening all interests in many aspects of ladies’ lives in the 21st century. Monthly meetings are held on the 2nd Thursday at 7.00pm in Eye Library, Cross Street, Eye IP23 7AA

50 Eye Works 4 U Jonathan Pooley Ian Barber

Through our gardening projects. we aim to boost self-esteem and confidence by providing training and work experience for disadvantaged young adults, thereby helping them gain employment. Regular requirements: volunteers and work opportunities for our trainees.

51 Eye-to-Eye Adrian Beatty

Eye-to-Eye provides a free EMAIL ONLY SERVICE that alerts residents to “What’s on” in Eye and surrounding Suffolk communities.

52 Eye, Suffolk Mental Health Mates Walks Julia Shekleton

We meet about 5 times a year for a short walk, chat and refreshments together afterwards. The aim is to improve mental wellbeing by being outside, socialising and getting some exercise. All walks start 11am on Saturdays, in or near Eye.

53 Hartismere Hospital League of Friends. Reg Charity No. 255636 Beverley Goddard Pauline Diamond

We campaign for better healthcare in the local community, raise money to support services provided on the Hartismere Hospital site and work with NHS, local authority and community organisations to improve access to care, support and health information.

54 LEARN David Holmes

Learn is an arts and cultural group which arranges lecture courses, talks, classic film shows and other events held at Eye Bowls Club and Stradbroke Community Centre. We encourage discussion and try to inform and entertain.

55 Little Doves Toddler Group Sarah Joslin

A baby and toddler group for parents/ grandparents meeting on Tuesdays in term time 9 to 11.30am in Dove Hall. Refreshments for all, plus fun activities! £1.50 per family, first session free.

56 New Eye Theatre John Gleeson

A Community project – a group of professionals that entertain and encourage embryonic talent, regardless of age.

57 The Bank Arts and Innovation Centre with Coffee House thebankeye.org

A not-for-profit Community Interest Company offering food and drink in a friendly and hospitable environment. Providing meeting spaces to develop skills & learning, access employment, address isolation and loneliness, supporting Suffolk’s visitor economy and having fun.

58 The Blossom Charity Registered Charity No. 1153881 theblossomcharity.co.uk Clare Jackson

We work with men and women who face personal, financial, location and other barriers and offer them opportunities to build their confidence and skills, to be the best they can be, and help them improve their lives and that of their families and wider communities.

59 The Friends of Eye Surgery Registered Charity No. 1042009 Peter Gould

A small charity established to benefit patients of the Health Centre. The Charity has been able to help with such items as the provision of computer equipment and blood pressure monitors. New donations and bequests welcome.

60 The Maker’s Place facebook.com/TheMakersPlaceEye Liz Waugh McManus

An informal group exploring art and the Christian faith, which meets fortnightly on Wednesday evenings in the Vine Church. It’s a place to explore different art forms and make friends. People of all faiths or none with any level of art/craft experience welcome.

Other organisations and services based in Eye

61 Active Wellbeing Service (June 2020 – May 2021) activesuffolk.org/awsbandm

Free physical activity support to adults aged 50+ living in Eye or registered to Eye Health Centre. Access advice, guidance, resources and an extensive menu of local activities. Visit Active Suffolk website to complete a short self-referral form.

62 Bfitforever Ltd. bfitforever.com Glenn Bartholomew

Two days every week, Bfitforever provides exercise classes which focus on improving balance, strength and flexibility in mature adults (50+). Classes are endorsed by Eye Health Centre. Classes take place every Tuesday and Wednesday at the Eye Scout Headquarters, Wellington Road between 10.00am through 11.00am and 11.30am through 12.30am.

63 Connect For Health (Social Prescribing) - Suffolk Family Carers Dominic Nasmyth-Miller

With Connect for Health, you can get support for a wide range of issues, including Social isolation, loneliness, low mood, anxiety, etc. Your Community Connector will arrange an appointment to spend time with you, exploring what activities and/or local support could improve your health & wellbeing. For Suffolk Family Carers, see 120. For more about “connect for Health”, see page 2.

64 Eye Business Forum Chairman: Bruce Salter at The Handyman, Eye.

65 Eye Health Centre eyehealthcentre.co.uk

For a patient leaflet or for further information about our services, please visit our website. If you would like to book your appointments or order your repeat medication electronically, please speak to a receptionist about registering for our online services.

66 Eye Library Part of Reg Charity No. XT34476 suffolklibraries.co.uk Julie Shepherd

Eye library is one of 44 static libraries for Suffolk Libraries IPS Ltd. Please visit us @ 6 Cross St. Eye, to use our public computers, register to borrow and download many services available free of charge from our website, and to discuss the hiring of our space during and outside library opening hours.

Opening times: Thursday 2.00pm – 5.00pm Monday CLOSED Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm Tuesday 9.00am – 1.00pm then 2.00pm – 5.00pm Wednesday 9.00am – 1.00pm Saturday 9.00am – 1.00pm then 2.00pm – 6.00pm Sunday 10.00am – 3.00pm

67 Eye Town Council facebook.com/eyetowncouncil/ Town Clerk: Wendy Alcock The Common Room, Tacon Close, Eye, Suffolk IP23 7AU

Eye Town Council works hard to make Eye Town a great place to live and work. The Town Council manages a number of sites and facilities across the town as well as having some civic responsibilities Office opening hours and contact details for current Councillors may be found via our website eyesuffolk.org/town-council.

68 Hartismere School hartismere.com Mrs J Marshall, Headmaster’s PA

Hartismere is a co-educational music academy for ages 11-18. It is a state funded independent school for the whole community. The school’s motto: ‘Discamus ut Serviamus’ suggests our core values and ethos. The children both ‘learn and serve’.

69 St Peter and St Paul CE Primary School stpeterandstpaulschool.co.uk

Part of All Saints Schools Trust, we are a C of E primary school taking children from Reception to 11 years, transferring to Hartismere School. Our facilities are available for hire from 4.30 p.m. weekdays, including the hall (capacity up to 100 people), library and MUGA pitch.

Eye before the Normans

By Andrew Evitt

The buildings and structures we see as we walk around Eye today are, in an archaeological sense, very recent history. The Church, Castle, and the many timbered buildings, were all built within the last thousand years. However, before that time, Eye was visited and became a settlement to various peoples stretching back many thousands of years.

Finds from excavations on the edge of Eye show evidence of people of the Palaeolithic or Old Stone Age, when woolly mammoths roamed the land almost certainly hunted by Neanderthals. This was confirmed by finds of napped flints and a very early hand axe of the Acheulian which could date as early as 531,000 BC to 298,000 BC.

Later hunter gatherers stopped at Eye to over winter at least 5 to 15 thousand years ago. When these Mesolithic groups (Middle Stone Age 15,000 to 5,000 BC) visited Eye, they stayed in the area, as they were particularly attracted to water and marsh for food etc… which Eye certainly provided. They left behind worked flint and other debris.

The next arrivals from the continent were in the Neolithic period (New Stone Age 5,000 to 1700 BC). These were nomadic people who once again originally started as hunter gatherers, but the discovery of buildings, such as at the Hartismere dig, suggests that some had settled lifestyles and introduced farming for the first time in Britain. Late Neolithic and early Bronze Age (2,300 to 900 BC) cremations, including a crouched burial as well as flint, pottery, an arrowhead, and a socketed Bronze Age axe were also found at Hartismere High School.

Other finds have included 2 groups of later Bronze Age/early Iron Age pits, and 2 round houses. While across Castleton Way further evidence of Bronze Age activity was found with the discovery of two post holes containing worked flint and pottery, with the suggestion that the post holes formed part of a structure.

On the same site, an Iron Age / Celtic (800 BC – 50 AD) cobbled track way was discovered with a parallel pair of ditches. Other finds in the Hartismere area included two groups of Bronze Age and early Iron Age pits and round houses.

The next visitors to Eye to leave their mark were the Romans (43AD to 410AD).

There is a strong possibility that there was a Roman settlement in the Eye area connected to the new Roman road now known as the A140. A find of 600 Roman gold coins, the Clint Farm hoard, was found in 1781, and the most valuable in Suffolk until the Hoxne Treasure was discovered in 1992. The hoards were probably buried at the end of the Roman occupation by a local, which indicated a Roman settlement nearby. Six Roman coins have been found in Lowgate Street, a corn drying kiln indicating a Farmstead settlement near Wellington Road and the stream behind the Bedingfield Arms houses. There is little doubt the geography of Eye as a natural island, with its defensive possibilities and the abundance of fresh water, would have been as irresistible to the Romans as it was to previous settlers.

After the Romans came the Anglo Saxons (410 to 1066AD) who left early evidence of two large burial sites, the first in the Dove valley by the Waterloo Plantation (one of the two largest found in Suffolk), whilst the second was at the

Hartismere School site. The Waterloo site consisted of some 150 burial urns containing items of brass and iron as well as bone. In the Hartismere area a horse burial was found - which is quite rare.

The Hartismere site also produced evidence of a very early Anglo Saxon settlement with possibly one of the first Anglo Saxon long houses to be discovered in England, and a further 18 sunken featured buildings bisected by a track way. During the Anglo Saxon period, Eye continued to grow and prosper with almost certainly the erection of its first Christian church, and it became one of the largest settlements in Suffolk. However, I believe that many of these Anglo Saxon decedents are still with us living in Eye!

What one has to remember is that the various excavations mentioned above are predominately on the outskirts of Eye. Due to Eye having been built on over the past 1000 plus years, very little, if any, major excavations have been able to take place within the town. Interestingly, the famous TV Time Team series visited Eye with the intention of investigating the Castle area, but they were unable to carry out any excavations due to the number and proximity of ancient listed buildings.

One wonders what is lying beneath our feet as we go about our daily tasks.

you’ll find it all in eye Eye is an historic market town with a great range of shops and services, Handyman in the world! Read through our list of shops, businesses and commercial services and the wide range of venues for hire and you’ll see that Eye really does have it all! Retail Co-op – Central England Supermarket Fabric Shop Fabrics and Haberdashery 12 Church Street. 01379 870270 1a Church Street. 01379 871017 www.centralengland.coop Fleurs Artisan Flowers, Fruit & Vegetables Co-op – East of England Supermarket 6 Church Street. 01379 870333 6 Broad Street. 01379 871042 www.eastofengland.coop/foodstores/eye David Dunnett Butchers G. Shurey & Son Butchers 17 Church Street. 01379 870155 4 Castle Street. 01379 871061 [email protected] [email protected] www.dunnettbutcher.co.uk www.shureybutchers.co.uk Dream On Ladies Boutique Green Door Antiques & Interiors 13 Castle Street. 01379 678483 7a Broad Street. 07860 769 565 [email protected] [email protected] www.dream-on.co.uk www.greendoorantiques.co.uk English & Continental Antiques Antiques Handyman Hardware Store 3 Broad Street. 01379 871393 8 Broad Street. 01379 870030 [email protected] [email protected] www.englishandcontinentalantiques.com Home Start Charity Shop Eye Flooring Carpets & Flooring 1 Broad Street. 01379 870186 Broad Street. 01379 870190 www.homestartmidandwestsuffolk.org.uk McColls 7 Church Street. 01379 871884 Eye Kidz Childrens Clothing www.mccolls.co.uk 17a Castle Street. 07817 996849 PopCraft [email protected] 7 Broad Street. 01379 309518 www.e-kidz.co.uk [email protected] Eye Pharmacy Pharmacy www.popcraft.co.uk 5 Broad Street. 01379 870233 30 Tilting Sky Gift Shop Pizza House Takeaway Food 4b Broad Street. 01379 871112 2 Magdalen Street. 01379 873300 [email protected] Queen’s Head Pub & Restaurant www.tiltingsky.co.uk Cross Street. 01379 870153 Workwear Country Clothing & Goods [email protected] www.facebook.com/queensheadeyesuffolk.co.uk [email protected] Station 119 Craft Brewery www.workwearltd.com [email protected] food & drink www.station119.co.uk Bar 14 Cocktail Lounge Tudor Bakehouse Bakery 14 Broad Street. 01379 873000 11 Broad Street. 01379 870974 [email protected] www.tudorbakehouse.co.uk www.facebook.com/Bar14-617365668676825/ Beards Café & Deli Professional Services 39 Church Street 01379 870383 Brome Recycling Centre Recycling [email protected] www.beardsofeye.co.uk m: 07857 662528 [email protected] Caféye Café Restaurant , Takeaway & Echo Internet Web Hosting & Cloud 14 Broad Street. 01379 873000 3 Magdalen Street. 0800 206 1213 [email protected] [email protected] www.facebook.com/pg/Cafèye www.echointernet.net Cocoa Mama Café & Chocolaterie England Studios Photographers 4 Broad Street. 01379 870688 3 Castle Street. 01379 309 856 [email protected] [email protected] www.cocoamama.co.uk www.englandstudios.com Eye Fish & Chip Shop Takeaway Gorniak McKechnie Architects 6 Lambseth Street. 01379 308680 Studio 37, Church Street. 01728 860830 Happy House Chinese Takeaway m: 07776 302885 19 Castle Street. 01379 871177 [email protected] www.gorniakandmckechnie.com Healthy at Home Meals Home Delivery 9 Castle Street. 01379 871238 Guy McGregor & Associates Accountants m: 07594 114364 2 Lambseth Street. 01379 870339 [email protected] [email protected] www.healthyathome.online Harrison Edge Estate Agents Lee’s Cottage Chinese Rest. & Takeaway 5 Castle Street. 01379 871563 7 Lambseth Street. 01379 870822 [email protected] [email protected] www.harrisonedge.com www.facebook.com/leescottage 31

Professional Services Entertainment continued & hospitality Hartismere Place Care Home & Day Centre Abbey Hall Events Space Castleton Way. 01379 873950 [email protected] m: 07831 849069 [email protected] www.careuk.com/hartismere-place www.abbeyhall.space Heat Design Design Services Camomile Cottage B&B Broad Street. 07734 761176 Brome Avenue. 01379 871355 [email protected] [email protected] www.heatdesign.com www.camomilecottage.co.uk The Laurel Partnership Accountants Frog’s Hall B&B & Camping 16 Broad Street. 01379 778095 Braiseworth Lane. 01379 871866 @thelaurelpartnership.co.uk m: 07706 161114 [email protected] www.thelaurelpartnership.co.uk www.frogshallcamping.co.uk Lindsay Flaxmer Auto Repairs www.frogshallbandb.co.uk 9 Progress Way. 01379 870264 Oak Lodge Luxury Glamping Nicks Lane, Brome. 01379 873535 m: 07411 745742 Location Works Film Location Services [email protected] 9a Cross Street. 01379 871326 www.oaklodgeretreat.co.uk [email protected] Priory Farm Barn Holiday Cottage ks.com www.locationwor Braiseworth. m: 07967 057796 Design Services [email protected] 2 Harwen House, Castle Street. www.airbnb.com/h/suffolk-getaway-with-hot-tub 01379 871936 m: 07879 630550 venues for hire Picture Framers Capacities are indicative only as they will be 1 Broad Street. 01379 870254 m: 07790 828221 affected by the type of event being held. [email protected] Bank Arts Centre Arts, crafts, music Seen Social Digital media management 20-150 people 01379 873495 3 Castle Street. 01379 309856 [email protected] www.thebankeye.org [email protected] Dove Hall Community Functions www.seensocial.co.uk 50 people Susan Whymark Funeral Directors Mark Aiken 01379 641407 / 07810 852089 12 Progress Way. 01379 871168 Eye Town Hall Weddings & Functions [email protected] Council chamber 30, Main Hall 250 people www.susanwhymark.co.uk 07713 196251 [email protected] www.eyesuffolk.org/eye-town-hall/

34 Eye Bowls Club Sports events, Functions Eye Salon Hair & Beauty Salon 80-100 people. 01379 870847 2 Lambseth Street. 01379 871996 [email protected] Eye Community Centre Bar, Functions m.facebook.com/eyehairandbeautysalon 140-200 seated, 190-250 standing Miriam Overy 01379 873475 Fit Together Fitness Studio [email protected] www.facebook.com/EyeCommunity/ Hartismere School Lines Hall 175 seated, 225 standing 01379 872725 [email protected] 5 Magdalen Street. m: 07747 802307 www.hartismere.com [email protected] Michael Burke Wellbeing Centre Life & Sole Podiatry & Holistic Treatments Hartismere Hospital. 01379 873700 1 Church Street. 01379 870111 Wellbeing groups only 20 seated, 40 standing [email protected] www.lifesole.co.uk [email protected] Nick Dale Naturopathy St Peter & St Paul CE Primary School 18 Castle Street. 01379 308707 100 people in School Hall [email protected] www.nickdale-naturopath.co.uk Scouts HQ Kids Parties, Functions Progress Boxing & Fitness Gym Main Hall 70-100 seated, 100-120 standing 8 Progress Way. 07983 721951 Meeting room 14 seated Juliet Grimes 01379 668088 Vine Church Community Events Sarah’s Hair Design Hairdressers 160 people plus additional space upstairs 10 Church Street. 01379 871560 Mark Aiken 01379 641407 / 07810 852089 The Next Generation Hair Salon 1 Castle Street. 01379 871879 Health & Beauty www.facebook.com/TNGHairSalon/ Barber Stop Men’s Hairdressing The Scultura Clinic Face & Body treatments 1 Magdalen Street. 01379 308674 Bupa Dental Care Dental Practise [email protected] www.thesculturaclinic.co.uk Lambseth Street. 01379 870296 [email protected] Gym Country Beauty Beauty Salon 2 Progress Way. 07739 690773 10 Castle Street. 01379 871234 [email protected] www.countrybeautyclinic.co.uk Listings compiled by Eye Business Forum. For more information contact Bruce at Eye Pharmacy Health Products The Handyman: [email protected] 5 Broad Street. 01379 870233

Voluntary Organisations (continued)

Gislingham

70 Friends of St Mary's, Gislingham Reg. Charity No. 1137891 Sandra Smith

Raises funds to maintain and keep in good condition St Mary's Church, Gislingham. Second hand book sale and refreshments, first Saturday of every month in Gislingham Village Hall 10.00am - 12.00pm. Spring Festival in May, Flower Festival August Bank Holiday and other fundraising events.

71 Gislingham Silver Band Registered Charity No. EW9000 10 gislinghamsilverband.com Jennifer Jeffery

Suffolk’s longest established village brass band. Open to players of all ages and abilities. We play at community events including concerts, parades, church services, fetes. Loan instruments available. No subscriptions. We practice on Tuesdays in Gislingham School, Broadfields Road, IP23 8HX Training Band 6.30 pm – 7.30 pm (termtime) Main Band 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm

72 Gislingham Variety Club gislingham-variety-club.org Richard Adams

A vibrant club that performs a wide range of plays, musicals and murder mysteries. New members are welcome. Keep an eye out for adverts for our next production and support us by being a member of our audience.

Horham

73 New Reeding Woods Group Peny Conway

Pound Lane Wood is a Community owned wildlife site of native trees, pond and wildflower meadow at Redlingfield Road, Horham, IP21 5ED. Planted and maintained by villagers from Denham, Horham and Athelington since 2005. Events displayed at woodland.

Hoxne

74 Hoxne Bell Ringers Andrew Castleden

We have established a new band of ringers to ring at Hoxne Church once the bells there have been restored. Meanwhile, we practise at several local towers. We are a friendly mix of genders and ages and always looking for new members particularly anyone with ringing experience.

75 Hoxne Benefice Mothers’ Union Registered Charity No. 249726

Catherine McGregor

A Christian based worldwide organisation with over 4 million members worldwide. Our aims are to support family life in all its forms through outreach and action. We meet monthly and are part of the wider charity. Open to both men and women.

76 Hoxne Bowls Club Roger Knight

Hoxne BC play in three local leagues plus internal club competitions. We welcome players of all levels and ages. We also have a regular ‘Club Night’ on a Wednesday for practicing and socialising.

77 Hoxne Garden and Social Club Julie Coop

The Club aims to entertain and inform it's members by hiring a variety of speakers prepared to give short talks on subjects some of which will be connected to horticulture but not all. The group meets on the third Thursday of every month at 7.30pm in Hoxne Village Hall.

78 Hoxne Heritage Group hoxnehistory.org.uk

We are interested in discovering and preserving the history of Hoxne for future generations. Our aims include researching archive materials, collecting audio reminiscences and informing the community. Regular events: Visit our website for details of meetings and talks, and how to contact us.

79 Hoxne Phoenix Group Secretary:- Pat Green

Ladies Group that meet monthly on 2nd Tuesday at 7.30 pm in the Lounge of Hoxne Village Hall. We have about 30 members from Hoxne and surrounding villages. Meetings vary with talks and demonstrations and occasional outings to places of particular interest.

80 Hoxne Village Hall Registered Charity No. 304770 hoxnevillagehall.co.uk Sharon Knights/Sally Dudley.

St Edmund's Hall Hoxne- a stunning facility consisting of three areas which can be hired collectively or as individual rooms. We have a lounge/bar area, main hall with stage and projector and a separate room with kitchen. Free wi-fi. See our web site for details of our regular events.

81 Hoxon Hundred Folk Club hoxonhundred.co.uk Jane Pearse, Secretary

Morris dancing is a wonderful social way to keep fit and learn traditional English dances with a friendly group. We dance to traditional folk music. No previous dancing experience needed. Musicians most welcome. Practice nights: Every Wednesday (September to April) at St Edmunds Hall, Hoxne. 7.30pm to 10.00 pm.

82 Village Voices thevillagevoices.weebly.com Jenny Knight (Sec)

A Community Choir led by a professional tutor in a friendly, relaxed, non-judgemental and enjoyable atmosphere in which we sing a variety of musical genres. No previous singing experience is necessary, and no audition is required. The choir meets weekly for practice in Hoxne (Monday evenings).

Mellis

83 Mellis Arts mellisarts.co.uk Sally Tyley

A group of local artists/crafts people from around Mellis. We work in a range of media - oils, water colour. batik, printing, glass & knitwear. We exhibit in the gallery of the Railway Tavern, Mellis.

84 Mellis Quilting Group Wendy Cheek

We meet twice a month at Mellis Memorial Hall, (opposite Multiyork) on the 2nd & 4th Monday between 10.00am and 3.30pm – all to enjoy a shared love of patchwork & quilting.

85 Yaxley & Mellis Pre School Registered Charity No. 1127983 ympreschool.co.uk Rosie Gooderham

Fun stimulating environment managed by dedicated staff with high adult-child ratio. Fully qualified SEN staff. Open term time Monday to Friday and provides funding for 3-4 year olds and eligible 2 year olds.

Occold

86 O.R.A.C. – Occold Recreational and Amenities Council Reg Charity No. 295058. occold.onesuffolk.net/organisations/orac/ Chairman - David Cox

VISION: To support and enhance the life of Occold and surrounding communities, meeting their aspirations by providing safe leisure and study facilities, promoting good wellbeing and improving life skills for young and old. EVENTS: Women’s institute, Dinner club, Yoga, Dance, Fitness, Table tennis, Craft Fairs, Youth club, Quiz nights, Community nights.

Stoke Ash

87 Castleton Brass castletonbrass.org.uk Christine Wade

Castleton Brass is a brass band based at Stoke Ash. We perform at various events and give concerts throughout Suffolk. Regular events: Tuesday 7.30pm - 9.30pm every week – band rehearsals at The Guide Centre, Mill Lane, Stoke Ash.

88 Mid Suffolk Radio Modellers (MSRM) msrm.bmfa.org Secretary; Gary Hughes.

MSRM are a group who build and fly radio-controlled model aeroplanes, helicopters and multi-rotors. We fly between Thorndon and Stoke Ash at Deadman’s Lane junction with Thwaite Road (weather permitting). New members always welcome, visit site or website for details.

89 Stoke Ash Garden Club Lionel Coe

Meets 4th Monday in the month at 7.30pm unless otherwise advised. Speakers many months, but visits often arranged for 3 summer months’ meetings. Come and join us for friendly advice, encouragement and ideas. £12 annual subscription plus monthly £2 for talks or entry fees for visits. Refreshments.

90 Stoke Ash Social Club Lionel Coe

Meets 4th Tuesday in the month from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. Come and join us for Whist, Uno, Dominos, Darts and a Bingo session. Attendance charge is £1 with refreshments.

91 Stoke Ash Village Hall

In a quiet rural area yet close to the A140, the hall is available for informal meetings, family celebrations or other events. Parking available and basic kitchen for refreshments.

92 Stoke Ash Women’s Institute in Suffolk East Federation of WIs Secretary: Jean Willoughby

A “small but perfectly formed” group. Meetings (very informal!) held on 2nd Wednesday of the month (usually with guest speaker). Monthly lunch at a local pub ( partners / friends welcome) also monthly craft night. Take part as much or as little as you wish!

Thorndon

93 Friends of Thorndon Church Tim Rowe

The Friends contribute to the upkeep of one of the oldest buildings in Thorndon. The burden of maintaining our Church is very heavy on our regular congregation and funds are required so that it can be used by the generations of today, and also the generations of the future.

94 Thorndon Bingo Brenda Hunt

Meet alternate Tuesdays at Thorndon Village Hall.

95 Thorndon Bowls Club sites.google.com/view/thorndonbowlsclub David Cattermole (Chairman)

Thorndon Bowls Club, a well-established and successful village Club, continues to welcome new members. You need not have played the game before as varying levels of coaching is available to enable you to enjoy taking part in the sport at a level to suit individual aspirations.

Thornham

96 Beyond the Wall Registered Charity No. 292229 beyondthewall.org.uk The Walled Garden, Thornham Magna, IP23 8HA

Beyond The Wall provides horticulture training, life skills and social time for people aged 16+ with learning disabilities, autism or mental health difficulties. Based in the Thornham Walled Garden we run monthly community lunches and family fun days. The tearooms are open Mon-Wed. New members and volunteers always welcome!

97 Music at Thornham musicatthornham.org.uk

Music at Thornham promotes varied concerts of chamber music in the churches of Thornham Magna and Thornham Parva, as well as occasional events in the Music Room at Yaxley Hall. Visit our website to sign up to the mailing list.

98 Thornhams Parish Hall IP23 8HB Reg. Charity No. 1030553 thornhams.org Treasurer: Richard Jannaway

Set in a quiet rural area, yet close to the A140, we're the perfect venue for that family celebration, meeting, training day or other event: excellent facilities, large outside entertainment area together with adjoining safe children's playground, fully equipped kitchen and ample car parking. Please see our website for details.

Thrandeston

99 Friends of Thrandeston Church Penelope Lucas

We aim to encourage participation and learning by bringing together the community to take part in events celebrating rural life such as vintage ploughing, fun horse and dog show, and strawberry teas to raise funds to maintain the fabric of 15th century Thrandeston church on Heritage at Risk Register.

100 Thrandeston Village Hall Alison Murton

Hall available for hire. Seating capacity approximately 50. Our Bar is open on the last Friday of the month

Thwaite

101 Thwaite Garden Club and Veggie Plotters George Parnell

Meets 2nd Tuesday in the month at 7.30pm unless otherwise advised. For visits, please check with George. Come and join us for friendly advice, encouragement and ideas.

102 Thwaite Knit, Craft and Natter Jacqui Lawrence

At the Old School Room, Wickham Road, Thwaite. Bring your own crafting projects to make and encourage others, friendly group with refreshments. 1st Friday monthly 10am to 12.30pm - fee £1 (bring your own mug).

Wickham Skeith

103 Friends of St Andrew's Church Registered Charity No. 299997 Liz Davidson

FOSA exists to raise the money necessary to maintain the fabric of our lovely medieval church building. Regular events include a monthly Bingo session in Wickham Skeith Village Hall on the first Tuesday of most months at 7.30pm.

104 Wickham Skeith Gardening Club Rosie Bassett

Our aim is to promote an interest in gardening through our meetings, offering talks and demonstrations, as well as visits to gardens and nurseries. We meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month and membership is £10 per annum.

105 Wickham Skeith History Group Pete Davidson

Meetings are held in Wickham Skeith Village Hall on the 3rd Wednesday 19.45, Jan–May & Sep–Nov

106 Wickham Skeith Village Hall Registered Charity No. 304838 http://wickhamskeith.suffolk.cloud/village-hall/

For hire: A warm, well equipped venue for parties, meetings etc. Please see our web page for details.

Other Local Organisations

107 Park Radio Community Interest Company parkradio.co.uk Chris Moyse, Director & Station Manager

Park Radio is the radio station for your community, and it aims to provide a truly local daily service. It offers a distinct voice allowing local people to contact, inform and involve the community, and it is run on a not-for-profit basis by volunteers supported by advertising, grants and fund-raising.

108 Thornham Walks thornhamestate.com Walks Manager: Josephine Henniker-Major

12 miles of waymarked footpaths through the beautiful Thornham Estate. Metalled footpath for all abilities. Facilities include: playground; cafes, local businesses. Open: 9am-4pm Nov-March, 9am-6pm April-Oct. Our volunteer day is on the second Wednesday of each month and is open to all. Please see website for further information.

Regional Charities and Community Interest Companies

109 Borderhoppa Reg Charity No. – 1091986 borderhoppa.org

Borderhoppa provides a range of community transport services which are available to people who are unable to use other forms of transport; includes a door-to-door dial-a-ride service and currently covers 56 parishes in north Suffolk and south Norfolk.

110 BSEVC Connecting Communities Reg Charity No. – 1004198 bsevc.co.uk

BSEVC Connecting Communities operate a fully accessible vehicle in this area. Our objective is to provide transport for those who cannot access public transport to visit friends, shop, attend clinics, day centres or social gatherings, or to connect with public transport.

111 East Anglian Air Ambulance Registered Charity No. 1083876 eaaa.org.uk Nicola Blake

East Anglian Air Ambulance is a 365-day helicopter emergency medical service covering Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. The £13 million we need to raise each year comes directly from donations.

112 Headway Suffolk Registered Charity No. 1075338 headwaysuffolk.org.uk

At our hubs throughout Suffolk, we provide support services and rehabilitation activities to adults with an acquired brain injury, stroke or a neurological condition. We also enable greater independence through support with daily living skills in a person’s home, and support with leisure activities in the community.

113 Healthwatch Suffolk CIC healthwatchsuffolk.co.uk

We listen to feedback about local health and social care services, using your views to shape and improve them. We also offer signposting advice about accessing support. All public events are listed on their website, where you can rate and review any NHS or social care service in the county.

114 Home-Start Mid and West Suffolk Reg. Charity No. 1127760 homestartmidandwestsuffolk.org.uk

Supporting families across Mid and West Suffolk via our “parents supporting parents” home-visiting service and through family groups providing free, fun and friendly weekly play sessions for all carers with children aged 0-5 years.

Family Group, every Monday morning 10.00am to 12.00 noon held at Worlingworth Community Centre.

115 Onelife Suffolk onelifesuffolk.co.uk

Onelife Suffolk offers a free service to help people lead a healthier lifestyle. Includes Weight Management Courses, Stop Smoking, Physical Activity for Long Term Health Conditions, NHS Health Checks, and Health Walks. Access criteria applies. For information and programme dates, please go to our website.

116 St Elizabeth Hospice Registered Charity No. 289154 stelizabethhospice.org.uk

Members of the public, patients, relatives, carers, GPs, nurses and other Medical professionals and health and social care workers can call and get expert advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Fundraising: Caroline Belgrave, Joan Maynard, and team

117 Suffolk Artlink Registered Charity Number: 1110898 suffolkartlink.org.uk

We provide creative opportunities throughout Suffolk for older people, family carers and cared for, people with dementia, adults with learning disabilities and young people in hospital. For more information, see our website.

118 Suffolk Axis Reg Charity No. 1167255 suffolkaxis.org.uk Monica Wilkins

A day centre in Stowmarket for adults with physical and/or sensory disabilities. Enjoy activities, excursions, talks, presentations, arts, craft, cooking, exercise sessions, new age kurling and boccia. We provide transport to the sessions. Meetings 9.30 am – 2.30 pm on Tuesdays & Thursdays at Red Gables, Fridays at Hillside Community Centre.

119 Suffolk Cruse Bereavement Care Reg Charity No. 208078 suffolkcruse.co.uk

Our aim and objective is to enable anyone who is bereaved by death to understand and cope with their loss. Our services are free to our clients of any age, however and whenever they were bereaved by death.

120 Suffolk Family Carers Registered Charity No. 1069937 suffolkfamilycarers.org

Anybody can be a Family Carer; Are you looking after a family member or friend who due to illness, mental health, disability or substance misuse cannot manage without you? Suffolk Family Carers provides information, advice and guidance to Family Carers of all ages across Suffolk.

121 The Befriending Scheme Registered Charity No. 107480 thebefriendingscheme.org.uk

The Scheme provides friendship and learning opportunities for adults (16yrs+) from vulnerable groups, including those with mental health needs, learning disabilities and older people. We also offer various volunteering opportunities with extra support for those who need it.

122 Waveney Foodbank Registered Charity No. 1151679 waveney.foodbank.org.uk To receive a box of food (lasting for three days) obtain a voucher from the CAB (see No. 123 below) or contact the Foodbank directly – see website.

National Charities with local representation

123 Citizens Advice Registered Charity No. 1089052 For self-help online: citizensadvice.org.uk

The Citizens Advice service helps people resolve their problems. We are equipped to deal with issues spanning debt, benefits and housing to consumer and employment plus everything in between. We offer a free, confidential, non-judgemental and impartial service to everyone.

Weekly drop in session at the Eye Health Centre. Every Thursday 9am till 11am. No appointment necessary, just drop in and see us.

124 Extend (Extend Exercise Training Ltd.) Reg Charity No. 802498 extend.org.uk

Gentle exercise to music for Over 60s and those less able, to increase confidence, balance, suppleness and strength, while having fun and meeting other people. We meet every Wednesday at Hartismere Day Centre from 2pm to 3pm. Cost £5 per session.

125 Reengage Reg Charity No. 1146149 reengage.org.uk Gill Watson

A lifeline of friendship….. a National Charity dedicated to alleviating the loneliness that many older people experience. This is achieved through face-to-face contact at a (free) monthly tea-party held in someone’s home. There are currently two groups operating in Eye.

126 Save The Children. Registered Charity No. 213890 savethechildren.org.uk Eye Branch Lesley Graham

Supports SCF by holding events; e.g.: soup lunch, street collections, Summer lunch in a garden, and a Christmas sale each year, plus extra events in response to major disaster appeals.

Some Church and Religious Links

The following links provide a means by which the location and contact details for various religious organisations may be found. The bolded part of the link will normally take you to a home page.

The best source of contact information for local Parish Churches is the Parish Magazines or Newsletters circulating within individual communities.

Church of England achurchnearyou.com

Roman Catholic rcdea.org.uk/churches/

Grace Baptist grace-ea.org.uk/doc.html

Baptist Union baptist.org.uk/Articles/373439/Local_Churches.aspx

Hope Church wearehopechurch.net/when-and-where/

The Forge Church forgechurch.com/locations/

Methodist methodist.org.uk/about-us/connect/find-a-church/

Quakers quaker.org.uk/meetings

Salvation Army salvationarmy.org.uk/map-page

United Reformed urcdirectory.org.uk

Defibrillators in case of emergency

A defibrillator is a device that gives a high energy electric shock to the heart through the chest wall to someone who is in cardiac arrest. This high energy shock is called defibrillation, and it's an essential lifesaving step in the chain of survival. If you come across someone who has had a cardiac arrest, it is vital to call 999 and start CPR. Then you should find out if there is a defibrillator nearby. Don’t be anxious about using one in an emergency as they are safe, reliable, and computerised, and can dramatically increase chances of survival if a person’s heart stops beating. When you call the emergency services 999 or 112, they will know where your nearest Community Defibrillator is situated and give you the key code for it so that it can be removed from its protective case.

To use the Defibrillator, you open the lid (you may then need to switch it on) and follow the instructions and voice prompts. You will have to apply pads to the person’s chest but these have pictures on so they are easy to apply. The machine will analyse the person’s heart rhythm and tell you whether a shock is advised or not. Use the defibrillator in combination with chest compressions until medical help arrives.

Pauline Diamond

Here is a list of some of the defibrillators currently available at the time that this Directory is being published. You will be guided on how to access these when you have called Emergency Services.

External, and therefore available at any time:

Bedingfield (2): inside old telephone kiosk on The Street IP23 7LQ, and on the sidewall of the Village Hall on Hall Road IP23 7QG. Eye (3) – Fire Station, the Police Station Castleton Way, and Eye Bowls Club. Gislingham – outside Village Hall. Hoxne –outside St. Edmunds Village Hall Mellis – in the phone box next to the bus shelter close to the Railway Tavern Occold – The Community Hall. Thorndon Attached to Community shop located near the Black Horse PH Thornham – Forge workshop adjacent to telephone box Thrandeston: outside the Village Hall Wickham Skeith: outside the Village Hall Yaxley – outside The Cherry Tree PH.

Index

Organisations are listed in alphabetical order within the Directory itself. The index is designed to help you find what you are looking for if you do not know the name by which an organisation itself is known.

Venues for hire in Eye are listed on pages 34 and 35, and are not listed in the index. Venues for hire in other communities may be found within the index under “Village Hall”.

Entry No 0-5yrs Additional Needs Eye Opportunity Group 41 Acting New Eye Theatre 56 Acting encouragement New Eye Theatre 56 Additional Needs Dove Players 13 additional Needs Eye Opportunity Group 41 Additional Needs (0-5yrs) Eye Opportunity Group 41 Advice Active Wellbeing Service 61 Advice Citizens Advice 123 Air Ambulance East Anglian Air Ambulance 111 Almshouses Cornwallis Almshouse Trust 2 Amateur Dramatics Dove Players 13 Ambulance East Anglian Air Ambulance 111 Amenities ORAC 86 Archive Eye Archives 21 Art Eye Arts Guild 23 Art Mellis Arts 83 Art The Maker's Place 60 Art & Culture LEARN 54 Arts Centre The Bank 57 Autism Beyond The Wall 96 Baby & Toddler Little Doves Toddler Group 55 Badminton Eye District Badminton Club 32 Balance Bfitforever Ltd. 62 Band Castleton Brass 87 Band Gislingham Silver Band 71

Bells Eye Church Bell Ringers 28 Bells Hoxne Bell Ringers 74 Bereavement Suffolk Cruse Bereavement Care 119 Bingo Thorndon Bingo 94 Boules Eye Petanque Club 43 Bowls Eye Bowls Club 25 Bowls Hoxne Bowls Club 76 Bowls Thorndon Bowls Club 95 Brain Injury Headway Suffolk 112 Brass Band Castleton Brass 87 Bridge Eye Bridge Club 26 Business in Eye Eye Business Forum 64 Cancer Eye Cancer Support Group 27 Carers Eye Family Carers Group 33 Carers Suffolk Family Carers 120 Chamber Music Music at Thornham 97 Children Eye Arts Club 22 Choir Eye Bach Choir 24 Choir Village Voices 82 Christian Outreach Hoxne Benefice Mothers' Union 75 Church Bells Eye Church Bell Ringers 28 Church Bells Hoxne Bell Ringers 74 Church Shop Eye Church Shop 29 Cinema Cinema at Eye 12 Cinema Thornhams Parish Hall 98 Coffee House The Bank 57 Concerts Music at Thornham 97 Confidence building The Blossom Charity 58 Conservation Eye Town Moors Woodland 47 Council Eye Town Council 67 Creative Opportunities Suffolk Artlink 117 Cricket Eye and District Cricket Club 18 Cycling BEYECYCLISTS 11 Dancing Hoxon Hundred Folk Club 81 Day Centre Suffolk Axis 118 Dementia Dove Project - Memory Café 15 Disabilities Beyond The Wall 96

Drivers Eye and District Volunteer Centre 20 Education LEARN 54 Exercise Active Wellbeing Service 61 Exercise Bfitforever Ltd. 62 Exercise Extend 124 Exercise Eye New Age Kurling Group 40 Family Attractions Thornham Walks 108 Family Support Home Start Mid & West Suffolk 114 Feedback Healthwatch Suffolk 113 Fitness Bfitforever Ltd. 62 Fitness Eye Karate and Fitness Club 37 Foodbank Waveney Foodbank 122 Football Eye Saints Football Club 45 Footpaths and Family Attractions Thornham Walks 108 French Exchange Eye District Twinning Association 19 Friendship Dove Social Club 16 Friendship Elderflower Club 17 Friendship Reengage 125 Fundraising East Anglian Air Ambulance 111 Fundraising Save The Children - Eye Branch 126 Garden Café Beyond The Wall 96 Garden Club Hoxne Garden and Social Club 77 Garden Club Stoke Ash Garden Club 89 Garden Club Thwaite Garden Club & VPs 101 Garden Club Wickham Skeith Gardening Club 104 Gardening Eye Garden Club 34 GP Practice support The Friends of Eye Surgery 59 GP Surgery Eye Health Centre 65 Grants for under 25s Eye Grammar School Fund 35 Guiding 1st Eye Brownies 3 Guiding 1st Eye Guides 4 Guiding 1st Eye Rangers 5 Guiding 2nd Eye Rainbows 7 Healthcare improvement Hartismere Hosp League Friends 53 Healthcare promotion Eye Health Centre PPG 36 Healthy Lifestyle Onelife Suffolk 115 Heritage Eye Archives 21

Heritage Hoxne Heritage Group 78 Heritage & Fundraising Friends of St Andrew's, W-Skeith 103 Heritage & Fundraising Friends of St Mary's, Gislingham 70 Heritage & Fundraising Friends of Thorndon Church 93 Heritage & Fundraising Friends of Thrandeston Church 99 Heritage Trail 490th BG Project UK 8 History Hoxne Heritage Group 78 History Wickham Skeith History Group 105 Hospice St. Elizabeth Hospice 116 Hospital Support Hartismere Hosp League Friends 53 Information Eye Town Website 48 Information Eye-to-Eye 51 Innovation Centre The Bank 57 Isolation Dove Project - Luncheon Club 14 Karate Eye Karate and Fitness Club 37 Knit, Craft, & Natter Thwaite Knit, Craft and Natter 102 Kurling Eye New Age Kurling Group 40 Ladies Group Hoxne Phoenix Group 79 Learning The Befriending Scheme 121 Library Eye Library 66 Library Support Eye Library Friends 38 Loneliness Reengage 125 Magazine Eye Magazine 39 Market Eye Country Market 31 Memorial 490th BG Project UK 8 Memory Loss Dove Project - Memory Café 15 Mental Health Beyond The Wall 96 Mental wellbeing Eye, Mental Health Mates Walks 52 Morris Dancing Hoxon Hundred Folk Club 81 Outdoor activities Eye Outdoors Group 42 Outdoors Eye Outdoors Group 42 Patchwork Mellis Quilting Group 84 Petanque Eye Petanque Club 43 Poetry & Music A Feast of Poetry 9 Pre-School Yaxley & Mellis Pre School 85 Quilting Mellis Quilting Group 84 Radio Park Radio 107

Radio Controlled Model aircraft Mid Suffolk Radio Modellers 88 Recreation ORAC 86 School Hartismere School 68 School Eye CE Primary School 69 Scouts 1st Eye Scout Group 6 Self esteem Eye Works 4 U 50 Silver Band Gislingham Silver Band 71 Social Dove Project - Luncheon Club 14 Social Dove Project - Memory Café 15 Social Elderflower Club 17 Social Extend 124 Social Eye Outdoors Group 42 Social Eye Women’s Institute 49 Social Eye Mental Health Mates Walks 52 Social Hoxne Phoenix Group 79 Social Club Dove Social Club 16 Social Club Stoke Ash Social Club 90 Social Prescribing Connect For Health 63 Stroke Eye Stroke Support Group 46 Stroke Headway Suffolk 112 Support Bereavement Friendship/ Support 10 Support Citizens Advice 123 Support Connect For Health 63 Support Dove Social Club 16 Support Eye Cancer Support Group 27 Support Eye Family Carers Group 33 Support Eye Opportunity Group 41 Support Eye Stroke Support Group 46 Support Eye Works 4 U 50 Support Headway Suffolk 112 Support Healthwatch Suffolk 113 Support Home Start Mid & West Suffolk 114 Support Hoxne Benefice Mothers' Union 75 Support Suffolk Artlink 117 Support Suffolk Cruse Bereavement Care 119 Support Suffolk Family Carers 120 Support The Blossom Charity 58

Support Waveney Foodbank 122 Theatre Dove Players 13 Theatre Gislingham Variety Club 72 Theatre New Eye Theatre 56 Toddlers Little Doves Toddler Group 55 Transport Borderhoppa 109 Transport BSEVC Connecting Communities 110 Twinning Eye District Twinning Association 19 Variety Gislingham Variety Club 72 Venues for Hire in Eye See pages 34 and 35 Village Hall Brome & Oakley Village Hall 1 Village Hall Hoxne Village Hall 80 Village Hall Stoke Ash Village Hall 91 Village Hall Thornhams Parish Hall 98 Village Hall Thrandeston Village Hall 100 Village Hall Wickham Skeith Village Hall 106 Volunteer Eye and District Volunteer Centre 20 Vulnerable Groups The Befriending Scheme 121 Walking Eye Plodders Walking Group 44 Walks Thornham Walks 108 Website Eye Town Website 48 Wellbeing Active Wellbeing Service 61 Wellbeing The Maker's Place 60 What's On Eye-to-Eye 51 WI Eye Women’s Institute 49 WI Stoke Ash Women’s Institute 92 Wildlife New Reeding Woods Group 73 Woodland Eye Town Moors Woodland 47 Woodland New Reeding Woods Group 73 Young people Eye Arts Club 22