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My social life has been turned upside down in the last few months. I used to walk into town on Saturday morning, list in hand, to visit the shops and the market stalls, meet with friends for coffee and wander home in time for lunch. Now I walk into town on Saturday afternoon when it’s likely to be quieter and wave at friends from a distance. I know this isn’t what most of you might define as a ‘social life’ (and I must admit it looks pretty sad now I see it in writing) but I’ve SHOP LOCAL TO BENEFIT been ‘off the scene’ for many years and happy to be so. Of course I like to paint the town red (crimson rather than fire engine) on occasion but it’s been a while LOCAL ECONOMY BY UP TO £19M since my weekends were spent in pubs and clubs, never knowing what might High Streets across Babergh and Mid Suffolk could benefit from almost £19m happen. Or who I might meet! of additional income over the next six months, if all adults spent an extra £5 I did meet my husband in a packed pub back home in Ballinasloe (yes, Guinness by shopping local every week. was involved!), so for the sake of those who do enjoy an active social life or who haven’t yet met Mr or Mrs Right, I’m delighted the pubs are open again, making With just under 150,000 adults aged over 18 in Babergh and Mid Suffolk, an an extraordinary effort to adhere to guidelines and ensure the safety of staff and extra £5 spent could equate to over £730,000 per week being generated in patrons. Restaurants too; eating a meal I haven’t had to cook myself and not local high streets and villages across the districts, equating to a whopping having to clear up afterwards is a thrilling (yes, thrilling) prospect right now. In £18,980,000 over the next six months. fact we’ve booked a table at the new Italian restaurant in town and I’ve already decided what I’m having. I start from the back, with dessert, and work upwards The figure was announced during Shop Local Week (10-16 August), part of and shall be enjoying vanilla pannacotta with wood-roasted apricots at about the government’s Enjoy Summer Safely campaign, which set out to celebrate 9pm on Saturday evening. the importance of local and independent stores and the benefits they bring Live performance is making a comeback too, which is wonderful news for to the whole community and local economy. venues, artists and audiences. It will be interesting to see if performers and Throughout lockdown, local shops and markets have played a crucial role writers have been inspired by their lockdown experience. In fact, if you haven’t in supporting the local community to buy food and supplies in a safe and already watched Staged, a BBC comedy starring David Tennant and Michael easy way without having to travel too far. Many businesses have diversified Sheen, find it now on BBC iPlayer. It’s a wonderful treat. their offer to make shopping for essentials simple and supporting those who If there is anything positive to take from our experience of Covid-19, it must needed to shield. New services like deliveries, online ordering and even be that it has taught us to be kind and caring. We know we can pull together additional market days have provided a lifeline for many local residents. when needs must and now we must use our spending power to support our local economy and attempt to stave off further job losses. Every penny you With many lockdown measures starting to ease, Shop Local Week aimed to spend locally will help to secure the future of a local business and its employees, encourage people to keep visiting to their local high street and not return to possibly even people you know. pre-COVID habits of out of town and online shopping. Enjoy your freedom safely, consider the safety of others and together we can Cllr Gerard Brewster, Mid Suffolk District Council’s deputy leader and cabinet make this ‘new normal’ work in everyone’s best interests. member for economic growth said: “This year has been incredibly challenging for businesses on our high streets. I have been impressed to see how many Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, businesses have risen to the challenges created by the coronavirus to support 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP customers in their local community. It is staggering to see how an extra £5 EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins In Touch Titles spent in our local high street can provide a huge boost to the local economy.” T: 01473 400380 • Stowmarket & Stowupland Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are working hard to support local Send editorial copy to: • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew [email protected] businesses and will be launching an initiative to maintain the momentum of Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and • Melton & Woodbridge photographs for publication. The publishers reserve • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley Shop Local Week in the coming weeks. the right to amend such submissions and cannot • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, accept responsibility for any loss. Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon ADVERTISING • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall T: 01473 400380 & Warren Heath E: [email protected] • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, DISTRIBUTION Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit Tree Martin: 01473 400380 If you have enjoyed volunteering in your community during lockdown, E: [email protected] • Needham Market & The Creetings why not consider volunteering with a local charity? Suffolk Family • Shotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, PRINTING Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton Carers is based on Hill View Business Park in Old Ipswich Road, Claydon. ColourPlan Print: 01473 400379 & Woolverstone We provide information, advice, guidance and support for anyone who E: [email protected] • Martlesham is caring for a friend, family member or neighbour. The person that Disclaimer: • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton they are caring for may be ill, have a disability, a mental health issue or The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford be elderly and frail. taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine & Stratford St Mary are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham How can you help? While reasonable care is taken when accepting • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) We are looking for more telephone supporters to help us keep in touch advertisements or editorial, the publisher/editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone with family carers who may be isolated, have a heavy caring role or transactions and also reserves the right to refuse to & Washbrook include advertising or editorial. They will, however care for someone who no longer is able to hold a conversation. This immediately investigate any written complaints. • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead role can be carried out from home so is a perfect way to volunteer in © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. • Westerfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used the current situation! in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, St Martin & Witnesham without the prior written permission of the publisher. • Sproughton & Burstall What do we offer? © In Touch with Ashbocking, Swilland, Tuddenham, Westerfield & Witnesham is published by Mansion We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe Training and support for your volunteer role, out-of-pocket expenses, House Publishing (UK) Ltd the opportunity to meet new people and to make a real difference to Thurs 10 September the lives of family carers. is the advertising and Who do I contact? editorial deadline for If you are interested or you would like to find out more, please call Printed on gloss paper from FSC certified sources 01473 835477 or email us at: [email protected] Please recycle. the October edition www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/westerfield 3 NEWS
SWILLAND & WITNESHAM GROUPED PARISH COUNCIL Highlights and decisions from the draft minutes of the parish council meeting held on Wednesday 15 July via Zoom PLANNING had still hadn’t been a reply to the parish council’s letter to SCC Highways Mr Hindle reported that there had been a planning committee meeting on 7 sent in January. However, he was now in a position to proceed with a site July. Two applications for the site at Homelands House were on the agenda, visit. Dr Williams and Cllr Jones would arrange this. one for continued use of the storage container and portakabin for dress Other Highways issues hire and storage of musical equipment with associated office. The other It was asked why the roadworks had taken so long to clear between was for partial change of use of existing building from office and storage for Witnesham and Westerfield due to Scottish Power works. Clerk would household goods and documents as permitted by C12/2035 to B1(a) to office enquire as to timescale for expected completion. use for administration of off-site mini-bus and taxi private hire business. Grass cutting at Acre Close seemed overdue. The clerk would establish which The site had a history of planning enforcement issues around operations contractor to contact and resolve. on the site and operating hours which had subsided in the last year or so. Neither of the applications was objected to but conditions on such that there Concerns were raised regarding safety for pedestrians on Swilland High Road, were no operations on site, admin only, controlled operating days and times in particular young children on the stretch just north of the school in regard and that the future use of the site is closely monitored by ESC to ensure no to speeding vehicles compounded by having no pavement. Clerk would re- operational use. report the leaning 20mph advisory sign to SCC Highways and Mrs Shaw would raise the speeding issue at the next ASB meeting. Application at West Barn Low Farm, Kirby Lane, Swilland No objections during C19 emergency measures: application permitted by esc. VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE (VHMC) East Suffolk DC/20/1802/ARM / Ipswich Borough 20/00417/REM Sound/Acoustic improvements Detail of landscaping, fencing and paths for the Country Park which had Dr Nicol reported that the work was completed in early July. A measured previously been agreed in principle with no considered material impact on result for reverberation before the work was 2.6 seconds. It is now 1.01 the parishes. seconds. Mrs Shaw thanked Dr Nicol for all his efforts in the project and this was echoed by all councillors. A planning enforcement case had been raised by ESC investigating a high fence close to the access track in Mill Lane, Witnesham. Village Hall Re-opening / COVID-19 Risk Assessment Mrs Shaw reported that VHMC had a 20-page edict to follow on what can and There had been no update on the pending conditional decision on Street can’t be done. Clerk would liaise with Mrs Shaw to ensure the appropriate Farm. documentation was being referenced. There hadn’t been a VHMC meeting An appeal to the planning inspectorate had been lodged for Kersey Croft and the chair asked that VHMC should have a plan of how and when they Kennels, Strugglers Lane, Witnesham which was PC supported but ESC might re-open the hall when it is safe to do so. refused. CURRENT FINANCIAL SITUATION Mr Collings reported that Fenn Wright had been observed recently at the Clerk reported that budget adjustments had been agreed by the finance Saw Mill site and yet another planning application might be pending at land committee at their meeting on 29 June. Dr Nicol gave an overview of these adjacent to Rose Cottage, Mill Lane, but none so far. adjustments which involved the additional income of £1k from ESC grant, plus £2.5k redirected redundant INR budget to bring the village hall project HIGHWAYS budget up to £4.5k (£1k existing). It was proposed, seconded and agreed that Gibraltar Crossroads the budget be increased in accordance with these details by £1k with £47,505 Cllr Jones apologised that he hadn’t yet arranged for a site visit and that there total income and reserves and £47,605 total expenditure.
DAN POULTER MP REPORTS BACK The decision about building Sizewell C in Suffolk is rapidly approaching. The habitats. I believe this environmental damage is not sufficiently mitigated by French-owned power company EDF have decided to continue with their EDF’s current construction plans. application for a Development Consent Order which is now out for public consultation. If built, we shall be living with the construction phase of Sizewell I am also concerned that EDF have done little to reduce the impact that C for more than 10 years so I felt it important to set out my thoughts about construction traffic will have upon East Suffolk’s communities. EDF’s decision whether Sizewell C is a good thing for Suffolk. to move from sea to land-based delivery of supplies has not been adequately considered. There will be a need for substantial road and rail improvements In the absence of an alternative, and until we can find better ways of storing to support this change in the construction plan and I am therefore concerned the electricity produced by renewable sources such as offshore wind and that EDF has not listened to Suffolk’s parishes and communities’ views. solar energy, nuclear power will remain an important form of UK electricity production. At a time when all are striving to be more environmentally The East Suffolk train line and the A12 are vital transport routes for those conscious and the government has committed to meet climate change and who live and work in central and eastern Suffolk. The A12 is also an important carbon reduction targets, nuclear energy has the advantage of being carbon access route for tourists who spend millions of pounds in our area. Tourism neutral and helps to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. brings huge economic benefits to our county and visitors must be able to reach Suffolk without encountering delays and congestion caused by I am also mindful that the construction of Sizewell C will bring job construction traffic. opportunities at a time (post COVID-19) that may prove to be economically challenging. The Suffolk coast leads the way in creating jobs in the renewable Finally, I have concerns about the potential security implications of Chinese energy sector and the construction of Sizewell C will undoubtedly provide financial involvement in such a major energy project, for which I have not yet future job opportunities for our children and grandchildren. received adequate assurances. Considering the environmental positives of nuclear energy and the local Having considered the matter carefully, on balance, I am unable to support jobs boost to Suffolk, I still have serious reservations about the proposals the current proposals for Sizewell C. I will continue to monitor developments for Sizewell C. I am concerned about the potential damage to our beautiful very carefully and, as always, shall stand up for the best interests of the Suffolk coastline, and the impact that this will have upon its rare species and residents I represent in Central Suffolk and North Ipswich. 4 In Touch online: w We have now reopened for hearing assessments and hearing solutions! Your hearing is our passion If during lockdown you have become aware you need help, don’t let hearing loss prolong your isolation. Find us at:
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ASHBOCKING, SWILLAND, TUDDENHAM, ASHBOCKING, SWILLAND WESTERFIELD & WITNESHAM & WITNESHAM WI The usual diary dates section is no longer relevant in the present situation but The lovely summer weather and new guidance from WI Headquarters was an the outreach post office facility is still available in Witnesham Baptist Church incentive for a garden get-together for members on 12 August. No speaker Room. The opening times are: Tuesdays from 12.30-4pm and Thursdays from of course, but it was good to have a socially distanced chat and a quiz to 9am to 12 30pm. entertain. Thankyou from FIND (Families in Need) Chrissie Lightfoot will be opening her wood at Hall Farm Cottage in Church Thank you so much to those of you who have continued to respond so Lane, Witnesham on Sunday 20 September from 11am until 5pm in aid of The generously to support FIND’s work in the local community , either by Blossom Appeal Charity. Do come and have a stroll around the delightful eight donating money or tinned food and packets. FIND is still managing to fulfil acre wood which is managed for wildlife. You are invited to bring a picnic, the requests made for the emergency three-day food supplies for those in though please be mindful there are no toilet facilities. real need through the generosity of supporters such as you. We are also kept As yet, there are no plans for a meeting on September 9 as Witnesham Village busy taking household goods to people most weeks. Hall is not open just now. We were due to have David Green tell us about Recipients may be people who are waiting for their Income Support to arrive planting pots for winter. Hopefully, he will be free to visit another time. but others are trying to feed themselves and their children on low wages or Meanwhile members are receiving news from both Suffolk East and zero hours’ contracts. More recently too, several families on low wages have National offices who are working to keep business up to date. Sadly, the been laid off for the first time in their lives and are beginning to deplete any WI’s educational Denman College in Oxfordshire will close its doors due to reserves they had for their usual housekeeping bills. Please continue the good financial difficulties which have been a threat for some time. work by donating food to the local drop off points in Westerfield Church, to the church in Tuddenham or to Jean Ellinor or to me in Witnesham. Alternatively, you may donate in the following ways: SOROPTIMIST CLUB OF IPSWICH • Cash or cheque in any denomination in an envelope posted through my letterbox. As with many voluntary organisations, we have been holding our meetings online using Zoom. To commemorate the pleasure –or • A cheque made out to FOOD BANK – FIND may be posted to FIND, shock – of this experience, we have put together our ‘Lockdown Locks’, PO Box 1029, Ipswich IP1 9XJ. Include your name and address so individual before and after photos on the day when we at last got that we can thank you. ‘that’ cut! • Bank Transfer: Sort Code 30-94-55 / Account no. 54354468 At our July meeting we had our first Zoom speaker, Chloe Lee, Whatever you can give to help needy families in our community will be very Communities Officer at East Suffolk Council, who talked to us about Period Poverty in general and how it was affecting women and girls much appreciated. of low income during the COVID-19 lockdown, either because they Heather Cade (FIND Trustee), 5 Coopers Close, Witnesham couldn’t afford sanitary products or because there was a dearth of 01473 785464 / [email protected] them in shops. The pandemic has hit people in many varied ways, which perhaps we would not have thought about. DEGREE CONGRATULATIONS We have continued to make syringe driver bags for Ipswich Hospital. We congratulate the following students who have recently graduated and we Since lockdown began, we have taken in 100 for palliative care and end wish them every success in the future. of life patients. Robyn Bosworth from Witnesham achieved a BSc. (Hons) in Psychology at the We have donated money to buy second-hand smart phones to help University of Hereford, with an extra year spent abroad. She plans to study children who live in the rubbish heap shanty towns in the Philippines for a Masters in Psychology at the University of Birmingham from September. to continue their schooling online during lockdown. Education for Amelie Elden from Swilland was awarded a BA (Hons) in Fashion, them is the passport to escaping such living conditions and having a Communication and Promotion at Nottingham Trent University. Amelie is better life. now reviewing her future plans. We have also been busy lobbying. We have written to our respective Stephanie Macaulay from Witnesham was awarded a BA (Hons) in Business MPs (we cover five constituencies) asking them to support the Domestic Studies and Spanish at Reading University. This too was a four-year course Violence Abuse Bill currently going through the parliamentary process. with the extra year spent abroad. Stephanie is moving to Guildford to start We have also written to Suffolk County Council, Dr Therese Coffey work in September with Phillips Electricals. MP, Tulip Siddiq, Shadow Minister for Children – Early Days and David Ellesmere, Leader of Ipswich Borough Council about the closure For a future edition ofIn Touch, please let me (see contact details above) have of Children’s Centres in Suffolk. details of other students who may have graduated this year, as well as those young people who have completed their A Levels or equivalent courses and So it’s business more or less as usual as we work to better the lives of who are either moving on to further studies or into work. women and girls. Heather Cade
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CLAYDON HIGH SCHOOL We were pleased to see our Year 11 students in August, collecting their GCSE results. While they missed out on the last few months of their secondary school career, including sitting their final exams, this cohort was a great group of individuals who enriched the school in many ways. We are proud of how they coped with the difficult situation they were placed in and congratulate them for their achievements and wish them every success in their future studies and careers. We look forward to the start of the autumn term and to welcoming back all of our students after such a long period of time away from school. The school will feel very different as we work to maintain year group bubbles INTRODUCING FYNN PHYSIO CLINIC for teaching and learning in different areas of the school in line with the government advice for safe reopening of educational establishments. Fynn Physio is a new private physiotherapy clinic in the Fynn Valley countryside ready to offer you quality holistic therapeutic care. There have been many details related to this which we have already shared with our students and parents/carers, but we are limiting use of the path Sylvester and Rebecca Dengzee live in Witnesham and each have 10 through school grounds to reduce any risk of transmission and will be years’ experience as physiotherapists. Rebecca works in NHS provision monitoring traffic on the site at the busiest times of the day given the lack of musculoskeletal clinics and GP surgeries. Sylvester also has both of uncertainty regarding bus travel and the potential knock-on consequences NHS and private practice experience. He has several years’ experience of this. in treating sports injuries having worked as first team physio for Woodbridge Rugby Club for five seasons and is also qualified in Can I remind anyone who lives locally that the school grounds are all private and there is no public access to the field or carpark areas at any time. We acupuncture which he has been practising for several years. have had some issues with glass and cans being left on fields, litter and dogs Fynn Physio Clinic is an adult musculoskeletal (MSK) clinic specialising fouling areas which our students use. We do have CCTV and we will be using in joint, bone, muscle and nerve pain and injury for anyone age 16+. this to liaise with local police officers to resolve these issues. Please support The clinic can also provide much-needed rehab before and after a joint us in this matter. replacement or orthopaedic surgery. We have had a number of queries from families requesting information to “Physiotherapy is about working in partnership with you, using support secondary school applications which have to be submitted by the physical modes of treatment including therapeutic exercise and ‘load end of October. We will not be able to offer our usual busy open evening but management’ by helping you modify and adapt your activities to want to support families with making this very important decision. Do look recover, alongside manual therapies,” explains Sylvester. “We also offer on our website and use the transition information tab as a starting point; shockwave treatment, acupuncture and taping. We are delighted to be there is lots there which will be of use for Year 6 students. We will post more information online about open mornings, a virtual open evening and other able to offer you all these modalities and will always offer appropriate opportunities to find out more about joining us. options for every individual following a thorough assessment.” Please email [email protected] with any other queries. Maéve Taylor, Headteacher www.claydonhigh.com
HENLEY PRE-SCHOOL We are now starting the autumn term and the children are pleased to be back, playing with their friends as well as making new ones. We do have spaces so if you are thinking of sending your child please get in touch. We are a small, rural, friendly setting based at Henley Community Centre. We pride ourselves on having a high ratio staff to children, therefore Lockdown has been such a drastic change to our lifestyles with no- providing maximum care and learning. Staff are highly trained and continue one unaffected. As a result, there are people struggling more with training to build their knowledge further. We provide an extensive range of prolonged niggles or pains that have had treatments delayed, or resources and activities to suit all ages and abilities, ensuring all levels within perhaps a new injury from new active hobbies or DIY. Or maybe you the EYFS are explored. just want advice on how to start getting active. Don’t delay – contact Fynn Physio today! Applications can be downloaded from our website or you can email the pre- school for further information. We accept eligible 30-hour funded children While our new clinic studio in Witnesham is being completed, Sylvester but the codes must be in place the term before they are needed. We also and Rebecca may temporarily need to offer you a home visit or an accept Tax Free Childcare. Children can join us from the age of two and we appointment at their temporary site in Playford. accept government funded and fee-paying children. We are open term time only from 9am-3pm. If you would like to visit the pre-school you can make an “We will also be registering with common private medical insurers, appointment by phoning the number below. so watch this space,” says Rebacca. “We are, of course, subject to COVID-19 regulations and guidelines from our governing bodies to In addition to our website, we have a well-supported Facebook page where keep everyone safe, with further details online.” you’ll find plenty of information and see what the children have been doing. It’s also another way to contact the setting directly. For more information, check out the website or find Fynn Physio on Facebook. For further information please call 07979 468467 or email our manager, Bridget Wyatt at: [email protected] www.fynnphysio.co.uk Bridget, Sarah and Kerry 8 In Touch online: Making more of your outdoor space
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Ipswich Dog Daycare Creche on Farthing “We were hugely overwhelmed by the response when we reopened. Road Industrial Estate was incorporated Many had missed us, many had got puppies just before lockdown, so in October 2017 by owner/directors Clare were in desperate need of help. We’re delighted to be back and in a Holmes (pictured) and ex-army veteran strong position to offer continuity of care and a greater range of services husband Danny, and opened in February than before.” 2018. They began as a franchise but in Clare and Danny believe their success lies in that fact the Ipswich Dog April 2019, Ipswich Dog Daycare Creche Daycare Creche is a family-run, family-orientated business. became an Independent Small Business. “People won’t just leave their dogs with anyone but our clients know Business boomed as a result and the we love what we do and they trust us to take the best possible care in a crèche currently offers dog daycare for warming, caring, ‘human’ manner. We treat every dog as they were our dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors, own, and know each dogs own personality! providing socialisation, play, activities and canine enrichment in an off lead ‘pack’ “Our client testimonials say it all really but it’s the welfare and happiness environment. of the dogs which is our first priority and we know every canine client enjoys their time with us. That’s the best endorsement of all.” In September, Clare and Danny launch Dolly’s Dog Grooming Salon & Spa at the daycare facility. Dollys, named after the couple’s first English Bull CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS Terrier, is a much welcomed addition to the established business, and will employ two local, experienced groomers. In addition to the grooming “I couldn’t think of a better and safer place to leave my dogs. service, an inhouse pet photographer, Candydash Images, has also just You won’t find a more loving and caring person than Clare, along joined the team! with Danny and the team. They always go above and beyond to give your beloved dog the best fun, love and care they deserve.” “We are slowly becoming the one stop shop for all things dog related,” Angel Johnson says Clare. “We’re very excited to offer dog grooming as an additional service and Dionne Bond’s Candydash Images and Pet Portraits in our “We are really happy for our puppy Milo to come to you two studio is a welcome addition to the team.” mornings a week. As soon as we turn into Farthing Road and say he is going to see Auntie Clare and all his friends, he gets so excited. The majority of customers are workers who need support during the We highly recommend the creche to anyone with a puppy/dog of any working day for their much-loved pet. With five star reviews on Google, size as a wonderful place for them to socialise and have a great time. it’s hardly surprising that most new business comes through word of Thank you Aunty Clare & Team!” mouth, but the crèche offers an extensive range of services, including Lynda Thompson puppy socialisation sessions, to attract new owners. “I can’t speak highly enough of Ipswich Dog Daycare Crèche. “Demand for our service has grown as owners realise the benefits of day- Very friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely carrying about both the care and socialising their dog properly. We are not a kennels, or walkers; dogs and owners. We love it and our Springer Spaniel ‘Toffee’ loves it.” we are a place where dogs can interact with other dogs, and learn how to Stewart Setter be a dog off-lead in a safe, environment with trained staff. They become better mannered, more socialised, and well balanced around other dogs So, if you need to find excellent daycare, grooming or pet photography as a result of regular attendance.” for your dog, Ipswich Dog Daycare Creche really is the place where dogs love to be and seems to have it all! Ipswich Dog Daycare Creche was closed from 23 March to 1 June, when it reopened with COVID-19 regulations in place, much to the relief of To find out more visit: owners desperate to get their dogs back to a routine. www.ipswichdogdaycarecreche.co.uk
IPSWICH CROQUET CLUB
It’s OK to croquet! With the easement of pandemic restrictions, croquet A full annual membership entitles you to play as often as you like is a great way to take gentle exercise in the open air. It’s a social sport during daylight hours throughout the year for as little as £2.50 a week. of tactics and guile rather than physical strength and can be enjoyed Furthermore, all the equipment you will need to get started is provided. by all ages. This is a chance not to be missed. Just turn up any Saturday between Ipswich Croquet Club is keen to revitalise this great sport and is throwing 10am and noon and there will be a friendly face to show you the ropes open its doors to all who would like to have a go free of charge and and tell you about the club. After a game you might like to visit the club discover why croquet can become so addictive. house for a drink and BBQ. Children are welcome. Our lawns are at Fynn Valley (IP6 9JA) where we share the beautiful parkland For more information: setting and purpose built clubhouse, bar and restaurant with Fynn Valley www.ipswichcroquetclub.com Golf Club. E: [email protected] www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/westerfield 11 OUT & ABOUT / CHURCH NEWS
BRAMFORD TENNIS CLUB #TENNISISBACK Following on from the government’s recent announcements regarding easing of lockdown restrictions, we were able to resume tennis at the club. Initially it was in a limited format but over recent weeks we have been able to return to a more normal programme and have been very pleased to see a surge in THE NEXT STEPS FOR REINTRODUCING membership. As an LTA registered venue, we continue to adhere to the LTA guidelines on COVID-19 so some limitations on numbers per court and the SERVICES IN SUFFOLK LIBRARIES need for good hand hygiene will remain in force for the foreseeable future. Most libraries in Suffolk have been open for the last few weeks, offering a Nonetheless, tennis is an inherently safe sport where it is easy to maintain Select and Collect service. There have been nearly 3,000 requests to use social distance so we strongly encourage anyone that wants to get active to this service with more than 41,500 books and other items borrowed since come and join us via one of our special introductory membership offers or libraries reopened. coaching programmes. Reservations from the library catalogue were also made available again last Junior LTA Youth Mini Tennis Squads Return week and due to its popularity the select and collect service will remain available for the foreseeable future. Suffolk Libraries is now setting out plans for reintroducing more services over the coming weeks and months. Some libraries are now offering access to computers for tasks such as Universal Credit applications and job seeking. Photocopying and printing are also being reintroduced in some libraries too. These services are being launched in a smaller number of sites first so Suffolk Libraries can check how new safety procedures are working before making them available again in all libraries by the end of August. Customers will have to contact their library directly to make an appointment to use a computer and there will be cashless payment options for paying for printing and photocopying/scanning. Customers can check out the Suffolk Libraries website for updates of which libraries are offering pc access and printing, and photocopying/scanning. Krystal Vittles, Suffolk Libraries head of service delivery, said: “We’re very pleased with how reopening libraries has gone so far and are From September we are looking forward to the resumption of our LTA Youth grateful to customers for their patience and support. It’s important that we Mini Tennis Squads. These run at the club on Tuesdays during term time with get a balance between getting things back to normal and taking sensible steps Mini REDS (ages 5-7) from 4-4.45pm and Mini ORANGE (ages 7-10) from 4.45- to protect people’s health and wellbeing. We’d advise people to check our 5.30pm. We also have a group for older juniors (ages 11-16) called Hot Shots website for updates regularly as we reintroduce services across the county.” which runs on Saturday mornings at 10.30am. For details on any of the above Suffolk Libraries intends to reintroduce browsing in libraries by the end of please visit the club website or contact our coach, Carl on 07553 966380. September with activities being introduced from November onwards. The Get Involved – Join the Club! aim is to also reintroduce normal library opening hours when and where We are a small but very friendly club and welcome players of all ability possible over the coming months with the aim to get libraries back to their levels so why not give tennis a try this year? We have several inexpensive, pre-lockdown opening hours by the end of the calendar year. As with all introductory membership offers available. Find out more by visiting the club these plans, everything is subject to changes in government advice and local website and clicking on the ‘Membership’ tab for details and pricing. COVID-19 infection rates. Find out more at about any of the items mentioned above please visit: It will now a legal requirement for all visitors www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/BramfordTennisClub to a library to wear a face covering. www.facebook.com/BramfordTennisClub Once customers enter the library to use a printer or pc, they will also be www.youtube.com/channel/UCrAQUHiREca6mf9EGO6Kk_Q invited to take part in the test and trace process by leaving their name and Coaching enquiries: contact details. Their details will only be used for test and trace purposes and www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/CarlDouglasCoaching / 07553 966380 staff will dispose of the information after 21 days.
WITNESHAM BAPTIST CHURCH Pastor Andrew’s message can be found at www.witneshambaptist. org.uk each week or on You Tube. All services and other activities are on hold at the moment. In the conservatory we have a collection box for FIND (Families in Need), which can be used for donations when the post office is open. Non-perishable food is very welcome. Thank you Outside the church, there is a clothes bank on behalf of the Salvation Army. All contributions are gratefully received. The post office is still available in our conservatory on Tuesday afternoons and Thursday mornings. Please use this service tohelp keep it in the village.
12 In Touch online: The United Benefice of Westerfield and In Touch with WTW Tuddenham St Martin with Witnesham
WE ARE STILL HERE…. Has been our opportunity in this national crisis, to message all through the Covid 19 help and support their people. After lockͲdown and restrictions. There all, Chaplains and Padres were on have been ‘highs’ (and a few ‘lows’) the ‘front line’ in previous national throughout and its not over yet. emergencies. A missed opportunity Paul Laughlin has been simply to reͲinspire a nation I believe. inspirational in his weekly onͲline JB services and continues the hard work despite the church doors opening slowly. If you haven’t found these services yet, follow the onͲ Getting in touch... line address below. We are delighted that The Revd When our churches finally opened Priest In Charge: Charlotte Cook has joined us as for ‘private prayer only’, it was a The Revd Charlotte Cook Priest in Charge of the Benefice. real thrill to watch the development Details to TBC After a gruelling day of church visits of renewed interest in our beautiful Readers: and ‘Zoom Interviews’, the panel of buildings. We met villagers who just Paul Laughlin 01473 785138 10 representatives had the difficult came in for the privacy and solitude [email protected] task of choosing between the 2 that was on offer for private Carol Rivett 01473 717404 exceptional candidates and [email protected] meditation and prayer. (Please Charlotte won through! Elder come again!). Then there were the 01473 785497 walkers, dogͲwalkers and visitors Julia Farmer Charlotte is no stranger to rural life [email protected] who stopped for a chat on their way having been brought up on a farm in Churchwardens: through the churchyard. The grave Norfolk. She went on to study at Tuddenham Jim Bird tenders, both current and past Ridley Hall in Cambridge and St 01473 785024 [email protected] residents of the village, with their Mellitus College in London. She Tuddenham Monica Pipe own fascinating life stories. worked in churches in Birmingham 01473 784545 [email protected] Slowly the adͲhoc arrival of and Cambridge before serving her Westerfield Judy Northfield worshippers became more regular 01473 230188 [email protected] curacy in Walton and Trimley as well and we started taking it in turns to Westerfield Mary Scholey as working with the Lightwave read out bible passages along with a 01473 713285 [email protected] project out of Otley College. She is few prayers…. Then music was Witnesham Derek Austin passionate about working with added ….. and all following the 01473 785673 [email protected] others, serving the community and Government’s CovidͲ19 guidelines. Witnesham Karen Cook making the love of Jesus visible. A 01473 213959 [email protected] Its not ideal, but we are getting by, keen gardener, cook and baker, she and it means a lot to us to be able Website: www.wtandw.org.uk also lists walking as a hobby which to share our faith. A little ‘can do’ will set her in good stead for the can go a long way and its very commute along the beautiful Fynn disappointing, not only to me, that Our Own Sunday Service at Home: Valley from her temporary the Church leaders have missed this residence in Playford Vicarage! WTW Benefice YouTube channel point and not grabbed the
St Martin’s St Mary’s St Mary Magdalene’s Day / Date Tuddenham St Martin Witnesham Westerfield
Sunday 7th September 9.30am Family Communion 10am All Age Worship 11am Family Communion
Sunday 14th September 9.30am All Age Worship 10am Family Communion 11am Morning Worship
Sunday 21st September 9.30am Family Communion 10am Morning Worship 11am Family Communion
Sunday 28th September 9.30am Morning Worship 10am Family Communion 11am Morning Worship
Please Check Our Website: www.wtandw.org.uk as the patterns may change www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/westerfield 13 ON THE GRAPEVINE
ST ELIZABETH HOSPICE’S MIDNIGHT WALK RETURNS WITH A VIRTUAL TWIST
The Virtual Midnight Walk 2020 will also allow walkers of any age to take part as long as they accompanied by an adult and will feature two new distances for participants to complete – a 10km and half marathon walk – as well as the opportunity to choose a distance based on their ability. These walks can be completed upon any route, at any time of day, throughout the fundraising week and further details can be found once entrants have completed their £13 registration.
All funds raised from the event will go towards St Elizabeth Hospice’s #HereTogether appeal. The #HereTogether appeal launched in April to counteract the financial impact of coronavirus which saw the closure of its 31 retail shops and postponing of all fundraising activities which are vital income sources needed to support the provision of its end of life care and bereavement services.
2019 Participants Setting a target of £250,000, in less than three months communities from across the region have united to help the campaign raise more than Independent Suffolk charity St Elizabeth Hospice is calling on supporters £195,000 and now the hospice is encouraging supporters to make the to sign up to its popular Midnight Walk and help the organisation during Midnight Walk 2020 the final push needed to take the #HereTogether the coronavirus pandemic. campaign over the fundraising finishing line.
For 14 years, the much-loved annual event has seen thousands of people Becky added: “Throughout lockdown we have been so grateful for all the don colourful clothing and take to the streets of Ipswich to complete help and donations from the community in support of our #HereTogether a sponsored six or ten mile walk at midnight in support of St Elizabeth campaign which is vital to ensuring we can provide our much needed Hospice. service to patients and their families throughout East Anglia.
This year, in accordance with COVID-19 guidelines, the flagship fundraiser “The Midnight Walk is always such a special event, full of celebration and will see participants complete their walks individually or in small, socially people marking the memory of their loved ones and this year will be the distanced groups between 19 and 26 September at any time of day. same and we wish all who take part the best of luck and thank them for However, the party atmosphere will not be lost as walkers are encouraged their efforts.” to share photos of their challenges online and decorate the hospice’s Last year, the hospice cared for more than 3,000 Suffolk patients and their social media channels with colour and vibrancy as part of a weeklong families at a cost of £10.5m, of which 75% was raised by the community Virtual Midnight Walk 2020 social media takeover. through St Elizabeth Hospice’s retail shops and local fundraising activities “We cannot wait to see what is in store with the unique adaptations we which were made impossible due to social distancing and self-isolation have made to the Midnight Walk,” explained Becky Jedrzejewski, Events brought by the COVID-19 lockdown. and Challenges Fundraiser at St Elizabeth Hospice. St Elizabeth Hospice is an independent Suffolk charity providing free “We explored all routes to continuing the Midnight Walk in the same services to improve life for people living with a progressive or life-limiting way we normally would but unfortunately this was not possible and as illness. Centered on an individual’s needs, the hospice provides specialist a result we have chosen to do a virtual event to ensure the safety of our support, whenever and wherever it is needed, whether at home, in the supporters and to comply with government guidelines. community or at the hospice.
“Participants can complete their walks whenever and wherever they To sign up to the Virtual Midnight Walk 2020 go to: www.eventbrite. would like but we would encourage people to do their walks in daylight. co.uk/e/virtual-midnight-walk-2020-registration-106772084178 We are really excited to see participants sharing their Midnight Walk experiences across social media to help take Suffolk’s biggest party To donate towards St Elizabeth hospice’s #HereTogether campaign visit: online.” www.justgiving.com/campaign/SEHCoronavirusAppeal
14 In Touch online: We all know the benefits of being fit and active and never has this been more important, as we all deal with the impacts and e ects of the Coronavirus on our daily lives. Fitting in 30 minutes of physical activity a day can be challenging, but by building it into our daily routines and choosing to walk or cycle to work, school or the shops it allows us to get active and do our bit for the environment at the same time. With the recent launch of the Government’s new cycling and walking plan, which includes improved infrastructure, cycle training and free bike repair vouchers, it’s the perfect time to change our habits and use our daily travel as an opportunity to get active and stay active. To find out more about the Active travel improvements for cycling and walking in Su olk visit: www.suolk.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/active- travel-improvements-for-cycling-and-walking
for Free Su olk Roadsafe Cycle training Cycling is a superb way of getting some fresh air, maintaining fitness levels, and enjoying the countryside. Its popularity for commuting to work is on the increase, as are the number of families who take to the highways and byways at the weekend. Su olk Roadsafe are currently o ering free adult cyclist Level 3 Bikeability training, via local trainers, which will refresh your cycling skills and help you to cycle positively on urban journeys. For full details and to discuss your requirements email: CyclistTraining@suolkhighways.org
Health benefits from physical activity Physical activity, like cycling and walking, can help to prevent and manage over 20 chronic conditions and diseases, including some cancers, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and depression. Physical inactivity is responsible for one in six UK deaths (equal to smoking) and is estimated to cost the UK £7.4 billion annually (including £0.9 billion to the NHS alone) Source: Gear Change A bold vision for cycling and walking 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