Volume 11 • Issue No. 4 • MARCH 2021 Your free local community magazine: essential local news, services & information delivered through your door every month ™©

Inwith Ashbocking, ,Touch Tuddenham, Westerfield & www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk Fun in the Snow in Ashbocking See page 4

Witnesham Recorder’s Report See page 6

We create extraordinary futures Virtual Open Morning | Saturday 24 April 2021 Register now | www..school/openmorning WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR A NEW WILL?

That’s a difficult question to answer. Unfortunately, we are very aware when it is the wrong time to think about it! Whether it is the purchase of a new house, the arrival of your first child, a marriage, inheritance or any other moment when life changes you should protect your family with a will. We offer you fixed, competitive prices and expert advice that will give you Peace of Mind. Call today to discuss.

Call us on 01473 232121 or email at [email protected] Elm House, 25 Elm Street, Ipswich, , IP1 2AD Family Law Property Law Mediation Services Corporate Law Conveyancing Commercial Law Wills and Estates Dispute resolution Personal Injury

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 your efforts, at least not 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 & 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 •  & 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 •  & 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.

•  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, & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall KEEPING IN TOUCH We also publish Spotlight on 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/westerfield 3 NEWS

ASHBOCKING NEWS The editor apologies for leaving our last month’s Ashbocking News report so this month you can enjoy two for the price of one! Sorry Liz. FEBRUARY 2021 As I write, we are at the beginning of our second lockdown. As you read, I expect we are still enduring it. While most of us will be awaiting our vaccine appointments but I’m sure we’re all grateful to live where we do with good neighbours, strong support systems and some excellent local shops providing for our needs. The lights, trees, cakes and cards from our Ashbocking Christmas celebrations helped provide some much-needed joy and fun. Everyone who entered got a prize, so goodwill was distributed throughout the village. Thank you to everyone for taking part. Senior citizens living on their own received homemade fruit cakes this year which, I gather, were scrumptious and gratefully appreciated. Manor Farm was the venue for Christmas Carols, all safely distanced on the front lawn. We thank Fields Church for all their hard work and help in setting up the venue and for providing the music with their amazing worship band. A huge thank you also goes out to those who safely directed people into the site and made sure we all kept to the guidelines. Special thanks to Andrew and David Gaught who allowed the whole event to take place on their land and for all their hard work towards planning the event. Then we come to January and February. We all look forward to the end of lockdown, the children going back to school, celandines and snowdrops bursting into flower, vaccines being administered to the vulnerable, the rain ceasing, Brexit actually coming good, and to meeting up with family and friends from whom we have been separated. Some hugs would be good too! Take care and stay safe, Liz Stegman MARCH 2021 As I write it’s snowing! Although I must admit to not being particularly fond of snow, I do recognise that the children love it and there’s so much fun to be had sledding and making snowmen, not to mention snowball fights. In the past, I enjoyed all that too! With homeschooling, lockdown and not being able to visit close relatives, it’s wonderful for the children to enjoy snow activities but I’d like it to disappear by next week, so make the most of it! Community spirit is in evidence every day in all our villages. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all who are ringing up and chatting to the folk who can’t get out, or shopping for others, or just stopping to chat with people they meet on their walks. We are all missing family members, work colleagues and social gatherings with friends but so many people are helping others during these difficult days and we do have so much to be grateful for in this part of Suffolk. Many of us have had our first vaccination and, as faras I know, things have gone smoothly and the organisation has been excellent. I posted a request for photos of children (and adults) enjoying the snow. Thanks to everyone who sent them in. Thank you for the great response. I think it was lovely for others in the village to be able to share the fun through your pictures. Keep safe, Liz Stegman

4 In Touch online: Making more of your outdoor space

Stunning, high-end Composite Decking FREE made from 90% recycled GIANT hardwood & plastics JENGA  Orders over £500* No staining or painting QUOTE CODE IT08  No warping or splitting  No rot, mould or algae  30 year Warranty FREE LOCAL Open Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm DELIVERY Orders over £200 to 0800 6123 998 postcodes CO, directdecking.co.uk CM & IP *Whilst stocks last

www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/westerfield 5 NEWS

WITNESHAM’S RECORDER’S REPORT FEBRUARY 2021 FURTHER FINANCIAL SUPPORT You will recall in last month’s In Touch FOR STRUGGLING HOUSEHOLDS I wrote about bringing the recorder’s Thousands of households across Babergh, and Ipswich role into the 21st century by bringing will be eligible for a reduction in their council tax bill after councillors it online where everyone could approved further support for residents facing financial difficulties. propose an event or a happening to record for prosperity. Well low Last year, the government announced a new Hardship Fund to help and behold, I was approached by households already in receipt of means-tested working-age Local Jean Ellinor of Tuddenham asking Council Tax Support (LCTS). This enabled a reduction of up to £150 me if I would like to be admin for to be automatically applied to council tax bills for these households a Facebook page called the – ensuring the districts’ most financially vulnerable residents had Witnesham Community. nothing to pay in 2020/21. Councils were required to hold back enough Hardship Fund to make This was remarkable in two ways, one this same relief available to any new customers who claimed LCTS the approach was before my article throughout the council tax year. However, as the year-end approaches, appeared in In Touch and secondly, I there is still some funding remaining and so the councils have taken had no knowledge of this Facebook the decision to reduce council tax bills even more. page. It was originally set up to keep residents updated on church affairs and has been going for almost two years. However, after discussing the Following Ipswich Borough Council approving an amendment matter with Jean it was obvious it could be used to keep all of us much more to the existing Hardship Fund to enable the maximum amount aware of all village activity and news on a day-to-day basis. Many other local of funding to be allocated to working-age council taxpayers villages already have this kind of arrangement. Articles should be short and most in need of support, Mid Suffolk also gave the go-ahead at to the point, reports on events are much more appropriate to be referred its Cabinet meeting on Monday 8 February. Babergh’s Cabinet to In Touch. voted unanimously in favour of the amendment at their meeting last week. Therefore, I am pleased to let you know that as the village recorder for All three councils will now award further Hardship Relief to eligible Witnesham I am now available on the Witnesham Community Facebook residents who have received LCTS against their council tax liability for Page. Please sign up and support the village. 2020/21. Households who are affected will automatically receive an My first task was to record that just before Christmas I was able to present adjusted bill – there is no requirement to apply. our postman Mark with the people’s medal. I did this on behalf of the Any Hardship Fund remaining, after applying the additional award, whole village as it was obvious to me and, as it turns out to lots of you, that will be used to fund Discretionary Financial Assistance for residents Mark has kept our spirits up with his positive, smiling and friendly demeanour in exceptional circumstances. Further information about this support during this woeful year. Well done Mark. There are several people who can be found on the councils’ websites. also deserve our thanks, including newspaper delivery services, milk delivery and the dustman all playing their part. Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Cllr John Ward said: “We are now a year into the coronavirus pandemic, Richards have done their bit as well. It’s a win-win situation I know but and we know how worried people are about the ongoing financial the friendly, welcoming, smiling face of Sue as you enter the premises impact of this. Last summer, we automatically applied a reduction has gained all our support. Why go to a packed supermarket for your fruit of up to £150 to council tax bills of more than 4,000 working-age and veg when you have such a service on your doorstep? They have also households in Babergh and Mid Suffolk. This made a real difference to increased their supplies, making all our lives a lot easier. They even supplied our most vulnerable residents and I am pleased that further financial a welcome tipple and mince pie in the lead-up to Christmas as a thanks to support is now available. all their customers, a nice touch but I think we should record a thanks to Sue “Our councils appreciate that some residents may not feel that this and her team and I hope once this pandemic is over, we continue to support help extends far enough, but council tax is an essential source of our local businesses. income for us, Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Police, and our town and parish councils, without which we’d be unable to support communities The Barley Mow has had a difficult time due to forced closure but I think during this difficult time.” we appreciate the value of community now more than ever and hopefully it will prove a gathering point for many of us, as well as the churches and village Mid Suffolk District Council Cabinet Member for Finance, Cllr John hall in the years ahead. Whitehead commented:“It is quite clear that Covid-19, and its impact, will be felt for some time to come. We, therefore, welcome the As your Village Recorder I want to thank and record all the good work and generous funding provided by the government as this financial support support seen and appreciated during these times. Please let me know of will provide a lifeline to struggling households. Beyond those that some of the possible unseen and unknown activities so we can all appreciate we’re already aware of, we want to help all residents who genuinely the kindness of others. Wishing you all a safe and happy New Year. need it. If your household income has reduced, you may be entitled to a reduction in your council tax bill and information on this and other Steve Henley, Village Recorder and Historian support is available on our website.” Residents whose financial circumstances have been affected by the Due to a need to self-isolate, not everyone obtained the February coronavirus can contact the Suffolk Advice and Support Service on edition of In Touch so the article above is a repeat from last month. 0800 068 3131 for free confidential advice on one-off grants, rent In addition to those mentioned, Steve would like to acknowledge arrears, mortgages, credit cards or other debts. The service, launched The Moon and Mushroom for maintaining their takeaway menu in response to Covid-19, can also help with access to food and other throughout lockdown and Swiss Farm for delivering seven coronavirus related concerns. days a week to those who find it difficult to get out.

6 In Touch online: advertorial Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up?

Established for over a decade double glazing? If you act now you experienced engineers for a free no Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks Cloudy2Clear windows have can avoid these problems. obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear handles and hinges on all windows and become a leading company for glass Now, you may think you need to quote takes on average no longer doors. replacement. Issues with double replace the whole window including than 20 minutes. Once the quote Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear glazing can often be gradual and the frames and all the hardware, is completed, we will sit down with specialist is Andy Kerridge and he services may only be noticed during a clear however Cloudy2Clear have come you and explain the problem and the Ipswich, Woodbridge, Manningtree, sunny day or during the winter. up with a simple and cost saving tell you how we can fix it. With East Bergholt, Capel St Mary Hadleigh, A failed glass unit may no longer solution… Just replace the glass!! years of experience Cloudy2Clear Stowmarket & surrounding areas. provide you with the protection you If you see condensation in your have a wealth of knowledge and are So, if your windows are steamed up, need or be energy efficient. Why not windows just visit our website or give recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, broken or damaged give Andy spend a few minutes checking your us a call on 0800 61 21 118. plus our work is backed by an a call for a free quotation on home to see if you have any failed We will send out our highly industry leading 25 year guarantee. 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

Improve your hearing in 2021. Book your complimentary hearing assessment this March with our hearing specialists at The Hearing Care Centre (saving £30)*.

With expert award-winning advice and over 300 hearing systems available we are confident we can help you. Prices start at just £795 and with our no obligation, free trial service you can try the latest technology in your own listening environments and hear the difference for yourself. Book your test today! CALL 01473 230330 Find us at 11 Upper Brook St, IPSWICH Two Rivers Medical Ctr, IPSWICH We want to assure you that when you visit us, *Terms & Conditions apply. your safety is our priority. Visit hearingcarecentre.co.uk/offers

■ Award Winning ■ Independent ■ Local ■ Covid Secure hearingcarecentre.co.uk www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/westerfieldShotley_Westerfield_InTouch_March 2021.indd 1 11/02/2021 14:25:59 7 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 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

8 In Touch online: NEWS

SWILLAND & WITNESHAM GROUPED PARISH COUNCIL Draft minutes from the parish council meeting on Wednesday 20 January

DECISIONS AND HIGHLIGHTS • Other Highways Issues Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) was discussed and itwas Police Report and ASB Update agreed that council should register interest in an SCC ANPR trial at Gibraltar Items raised were off-road motorcycling on public footpaths and, again, Crossroads, the chapel, the school, Mow Hill and the water tower on High speeding concerns by Witnesham School. One point raised by the police Road, Swilland. was the need for members of the public to use the SNT website to report issues so they are visible to the police. Copies of leaflets on how to do this Playing Field Management Committee (meetings currently on hold) were requested. The Police Crime Commissioner had launched an increase in • It was agreed to reduce the budgeted annual rent charged to WASPs for precept consultation. 2020-21, as a one-off, to £425. Planning – Mr Hindle reported the following: • It was agreed to seek advice from WASPs to establish what specific potential • An appeal for Kersey Croft, Strugglers Lane had been dismissed. groundworks they feel would be appropriate. • Some small changes at the FVGC site had been supported and Play Area Inspections ESC permitted. Clerk reported that there were still a few outstanding issues to be pursued. It was also reported that there was a need to re-establish regular inspections • Homeland House: request for a joinery workshop had been objected of the Recreation Ground. Mr Barlow offered to consider this provisionally. to and ESC permitted. • Relaxation of conditions for vehicle parking at Homelands House site Recreation Ground was due to finish by the end of January 2021. The lease for the playing field/play area needs to be extended as it expires in Dec 2024 and at least 10 years’ tenure is required for grants. Clerk is • Hillbrow Farm: change of use was supported with conditions and is progressing lease renewal with SCC. It was suggested that changing from a awaiting ESC decision. lease arrangement to obtaining a freehold for the PC would be a favourable • Rear extension at 4 Jubys Hill was supported and is awaiting ESC decision. option. Chair would write and ask SCC about this. • Street Farm application for 20 dwellings had been withdrawn. Tree Officer A new application had been received for the erection of a butchery building Recent correspondence forwarded to the PC relating to the Save The Oaks at Greenacres, Ashbocking Road. campaign was discussed and the common view was that there was not a suitable site, apart from possibly The Poor’s Land in Swilland. Mrs Shaw A Neighbourhood Plan had been considered and the committee agreed to would inquire further. ask an ESC policy officer to attend the next full council meeting in March to give a short presentation. ESC Partnership Talking Bench Council acknowledged that there would be an installation cost. It was agreed Highways to send a signed Recipient Agreement to ESC and have the bench delivered • Quiet Lanes Suffolk (QLS) to Mr Templeman’s home address by kind permission, before installing close Discussed after a member of the public addressed the meeting. Itwas by on PC land, exact location TBD. suggested that council may have chosen the wrong lanes due to a potential element of danger. It was agreed that the council would consider Church Lane, Financial and Data Protection Risk Assessment 2020-21 Wash Lane, Cockfield Hall Lane with one vote against and one abstention. Council agreed to approve and adopt the Financial and Data Protection Risk Assessment 2020-21. • Gibraltar Crossroads SCC Cllr Jones reported that he had asked SCC Highways to draft a traffic Matters to be brought to the attention of the parish council survey which he would fund but SCC was engaged in priority work dealing Mr Collings raised concern over the state of a fido bin on the Recreation with a backlog of SID post applications. SCC Cllr Jones would email SCC by the Ground car park area. Clerk would investigate and also check the bin at the end of this week. village hall car park.

DR DAN POULTER MP REPORTS BACK Having been contacted by several parents and schools concerned about of home learning, both from parents and our teachers. That said, home the disparity of higher needs education funding here in Suffolk compared learning cannot take the place of being in class for face-to-face teaching to our neighbouring counties, I have urged the Education Secretary to and I remain hopeful that our schools can begin to return in early March. urgently review Suffolk’s funding allocation and to level up education funding for our children and young people. Ahead of our schools returning, the government continues to make great progress with the vaccination programme and I am continuing to press I share the concerns of parents and schools and I am growing increasingly the case with the Vaccination Minister and local health leaders to make concerned that, without a meaningful injection of cash, many of Suffolk’s sure that Suffolk residents are invited to receive their vaccine just as soon children risk losing out on their fair share. We already know that Suffolk is as is practicably possible. facing a substantial increase in the number of children and young people in need of additional support, yet rates for special school places in the As more and more of us receive the vaccine, light is very definitely at the county are significantly below those of our neighbours. end of the tunnel with many millions of people having been vaccinated across the country. This is a fantastic achievement and my thanks go to Suffolk children and Suffolk schools deserve better and, at the very least, all who have been involved in coordinating the herculean effort of rolling a level playing field. The current funding allocation is not right nor fair and this is why I have written to the Secretary of State setting out the out the vaccination programme. case for Suffolk and requesting that his department levels up Suffolk’s We still have some way to go and cannot rest on our laurels, so it remains SEND funding to secure a fairer future for our brilliant children and vital that we all continue to play our part in helping to stop the spread of young people. Covid-19. We mustn’t drop our guard now when we have come so far and Although our schools currently remain closed under the current the end goal is in sight. The single most important action we can all take restrictions, I have been heartened to hear of the innovative examples is to follow the guidance to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives. www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/westerfield 9 OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS

CENSUS 2021 WILL PROVIDE A HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL SNAPSHOT OF MODERN SOCIETY It is lovely to have most of the children attending during the latest lockdown. We are lucky to be a small setting and that with our Covid-19 risk assessment Households across England and Wales will soon be asked to take part in in place, parents are happy to send their children. Census 2021. We have received a very generous donation of seeds, compost and pots The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives us the most accurate from Laurel Farm Garden Centre. The children can plant and see how their estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been flowers and vegetables grow from seed to the finished product. At the time carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941. of writing, we have had some snowy days and the children have shared their It will be the first run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter adventures through their learning journals. with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets. If you are interested in seeing what we do, please get in touch and we can send you a virtual video of the pre-school and an appointment can be arranged “A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities to visit the setting out of opening hours. We are now taking bookings for can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed,” September 2021. said Iain Bell, Deputy National Statistician at the Office for National Statistics. Applications can be downloaded from our website or you can email the pre- “This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport school for further information. We accept eligible 30-hour funded children; routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part and we have made these codes need to be in place the term before they are needed. Simply it easier for people to do so online on any device, with help and paper register at Childcare Choices to see if you are eligible. We also accept tax-free questionnaires for those that need them.” childcare. Children can join us from the age of two; we accept government- Census day is March 21 but households across funded and fee-paying children. We are open term time only from 9am the country will receive letters with online codes to 3pm. allowing them to take part from early March. We have a well-supported Facebook page as well as our website which The census will include questions about your sex, age, work, health, provides lots of information and you can see what the children have been education, household size and ethnicity. For the first time, there will be a doing. It is also another way to contact the setting directly. For further question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as information please call 07979 468467 or email Bridget Wyatt, our manager: well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation [email protected] and gender identity. Bridget, Sarah and Kerry Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations. For more information, visit: census.gov.uk CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL At the time of writing, the country is awaiting news of what will happen in March and the high school is no different. ASHBOCKING, SWILLAND We hope to return to full-time on-site education in March, having supported children of keyworkers and some of our more vulnerable children through & WITNESHAM WI January and February. In addition to the 50 students on-site, the other Our monthly meetings are held via oomZ these days, a definite benefit 700 were working at home, taught and supported by teachers and in February as members didn’t have to turn out on a cold, snowy other colleagues. winter evening. We know there are some who can’t join us but we We have been so impressed with the quality of the work many of our students do aim to stay in touch from time to time. have produced across subjects and we are also hugely grateful for the Paula Baker from Suffolk Prickles Hedgehog Rescue will be telling us input from parents, carers, siblings and other family members. Reminding (virtually) about her work with a talk entitledHogging in the Hedgerow yourself of French vocabulary, angles in a parallelogram, the rules for using a on Wednesday 10 March at 7pm. semi-colon or the elements on the Periodic Table is not easy, but your support has been crucial to the success of your children. There are lots of other ideas in the bag for keeping members up to date but we look forward to our meetings and events resuming by Likewise, I am immensely proud of how our teaching staff have stepped the summer. up with live lessons while also delivering engaging remote learning. We have all had our own steep learning curve! All of this is a reminder that to get on in life you need to be able to take on the challenges the world presents and that will give you confidence. There has been a lot of press about this generation of young people losing out on vital education, but we cansee that our students have also developed a set of knowledge and skills which is beyond that of previous cohorts and will serve them well in the future. A key focus when we return will be preparing our Year 11 students for their final term of school and ensuring that we assess their learning to award their GCSE qualifications. It will not be quite like other years, but the Class of 2021 has shown us that they are keen to keep their learning going and we are confident that they will succeed this year – and beyond. We keep our fingers crossed as summer approaches that we will have the opportunity to celebrate some of the usual events on the school calendar, and hope we may be able to welcome parents, carers and the community to celebrate some of these with us in the not-too-distant future. Keep safe and well everyone. Headteacher Ms Maéve Taylor 10 In Touch online: OUT & ABOUT

www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/westerfield 11 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. 12 In Touch online: ON THE GRAPEVINE / CHURCH NEWS

WITNESHAM BAPTIST CHURCH It’s almost a year since coronavirus took hold in the UK and the first lockdown was declared and to think we thought it would all be over by Christmas! Enough on the pandemic as it has been on the news every day for a year and I suspect it will continue for months ahead. As I write, The Beast from the East 2 is bringing high winds and lots of snow. Whilst it is cold and many are experiencing travel problems, isn’t it beautiful and uplifting to see bright white snow covering the SUFFOLK ACCIDENT RESCUE SERVICE ground? Families ventured out to play and have snowball fights, build snowmen and sledge where it was safe to do so. By the time you read SARS is a voluntary emergency medical charity operating in this, the snow will have been replaced by snowdrops, daffodils and Suffolk and its border areas. Our volunteer clinicians offer the like, ore signs of the wonders of creation. specialist assistance at serious or life-threatening medical incidents. Since we started in 1972, we have helped treat Thinking back to snow, scientists tell us that every snowflake is unique thousands of patients and saved countless lives. (see BBC Bitesize). We can’t comprehend that fact as there are billions of snowflakes needed to cover even a small area of land. Aseach SARS volunteers are specialists in prehospital care and include anaesthetists, snowflake is unique, so are all of us. Scientists have also shown that consultants in emergency medicine and critical care paramedics. They carry we all have unique fingerprints; no two people, even ‘identical’ twins, equipment and drugs not normally found on frontline ambulances and can have the same print. Isn’t that just incredible and wonderful? undertake advanced procedures at the scene of an incident, which are not normally possible outside the hospital environment. Given that, why do so many scientists still dispute creation and give credence to some sort of ‘big bang’ idea? Those who believe the Our charity receives no central government funding and relies on voluntary accident of the big bang theory and evolution must have greater faith fundraising to maintain its activity. The clinicians give up their time and than I do. I believe in The God of Creation. God who is, was and always provide their skills without charge. This ‘donation’ of time equates to many will be (eternal) created all things from nothing just by His will, desire hundreds-of-thousands of pounds each year, and the benefit that SARS and Word. Now that is incredible. clinicians can bring to a patient in terms of life-saving interventions, relief from pain and quicker recovery times is immeasurable. On the first weekend in April, we celebrate Easter, the time we Christians remember that the Son of God, Jesus was crucified and rose The last year has been a really challenging time but the amazing up from the grave to live forever. This miracle of God incarnate, His SARS volunteer clinicians gave over 6,000 hours of advanced prehospital death and resurrection are, for me, no less impossible or incredible medical care throughout Suffolk in 2020. They were called out to over 100 than creation. locations across the county – all of this during a pandemic. 2021 looks set to be another busy year, with SARS responders being mobilised to 72 incidents Even more astounding though, is that the death of Jesus was for my in January alone. benefit so that I could be in relationship with God creator and step from mortality into eternity. Not only believing in God creator but SARS is also helping combat the pandemic with inviting Jesus, God incarnate into my life and trusting him through all charity volunteer and retired responder, Dr Andy seasons, nasty viruses, snowdrifts, floods or whatever. Mason currently vaccinating staff at the Hospital. Andy is very keen to continue To slightly re-word a verse from the Bible: “Whatever I have, wherever his work after the initial programme at West I am, I can make it through anything with the One who makes me who Suffolk Hospital has been completed. I am. Christ gives me the strength to face anything”. “I would really love to continue to be part of the Of course, this opportunity isn’t just for me but for all humans made by vaccination programme in the local community. God and for God. We just need to say yes to Jesus and invite him into I am convinced that this is the way forward to ensure that the country can our lives. Now may be the ideal time to do it! escape from the grip of this pandemic. The vaccination programme will save Every Blessing, Pastor Andrew lives and protect our precious NHS and I am honoured to be able to be part of that.” Witnesham Baptist Church, Upper Street, Witnesham, IP6 9EW / 07851 060482 There are many ways you can also get involved and help support SARS this year. Please take a look on the SARS website.

Or why not sign up to the SARS 999 Lottery. For as little as £1 a week you could win up to £25,000 while helping save local lives. To sign up please visit: www.sars999.org.uk/lottery We are always keen to hear from you so please get in touch via email [email protected] or phone 01359 244186. Thank you! Join us on social media. Follow us, like, share or retweet. Help raise awareness of our cause by promoting us to your social networks: www.sars999.org.uk/get-involved Twitter: @sarshq / Facebook: @sarshq Instagram: suffolkaccidentrescueservice www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/westerfield 13 CHURCH NEWS

 The United Benefice of Westerfield and In Touch with WTW Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham

Charlotte Writes: St Martin’s Church  Lockdown Update!  When Jesus was asked what the Open  At the time of going to press, Wit- greatest commandment is, he Private Prayer  nesham and Westerfield Churches answered by saying :  remain closed. However, Tudden-  Sundays 09.30 –11.00 ham church is open, each Sunday Love the Lord your God with all your  Whilst not able to hold our normal pattern 9.30—11.00am, for personal pray- heart, soul, body, mind and strength of services, (and Government guidelines er only. and your neighbour as yourself.  permitting), Tuddenham Church is manned The Government has yet to set out  to offer a warm welcome to anyone to its strategy for the lifting of the In true Jesus style, he didn't simply ’popͲin’ for reflection, reading, prayer, lockdown, but it is hoped that we just answer the question, but he meditation etc can resume the service schedule transformed it. Your Thing! printed below in the runͲup to  Your Time! Easter. Please see the website and In this season, in which we are living Your Space! Facebook site for upͲtoͲdate infor- in a third lockdown, we hear those mation and actual service times.  words again. Love the Lord your God  with all that you have, and all that Even if there is no change, there you are, and love your neighbour as Our Own will continue to be a service online yourself. Sunday Service at Home: for each Sunday which can be found on our website and Face-  WTW Benefice YouTube channel We have all found out in this year book page.   how important it is to care, and how There will be Morning Prayer on different it looks at the moment. I Wednesday mornings at 9.30am continue to see amazing things on zoom. This is for 30 minutes as happening in our communities as Getting in touch... we read the Old Testament and people care for their friends and please contact Priest In Charge: New Testament readings for the neighbours, and as we all become Revd Charlotte Cook 01473 399542    [email protected] day and pray together.   more aware of how important it is www.wtandw.org.uk to care for our own sense of wellͲ We will recommence Coffee on being. Wednesday from 11Ͳ12. This is a  time just to chat. Come for as little FLOODLIGHT  or as long as you would like.  So as we continue to live in strange  times, we are encouraged in SPONSORSHIP If you would like the zoom link for innovative ways to hear that call of Have a special occasion to celebrate? either of these events please con- Jesus to once again to love God and Remembering a loved one? tact me at: love our neighbours as ourselves. Just want to help fund the lights? [email protected]    Tuddenham (£10/week, £5/weekend) We are considering how we might With my prayers for you all. Jim 785024  Monica 784545 conduct other services, and in par-   Westerfield (£7.50/week) ticular Easter, so if you have any Charlotte ideas then please do get in touch.  Judy 230188 

Day / Date St Martin’s St Mary’s St Mary Magdalene’s

Sunday 7th March  9.30am Family Communion  10am All Age Worship  11am Family Communion

Sunday 14th March  9.30am All Age Worship  10am Family Communion  11am Morning Worship

Sunday 21st March  9.30am Family Communion  10am Morning Worship  11am Family Communion

Sunday 28th March  9.30am  Morning Worship  10am Family Communion  11am Morning Worship

 Please Check Our Website: www.wtandw.org.uk as the patterns may change due to the updating of CovidͲ19 guidelines.

14 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/westerfield 15