Volume 10 • Issue No. 12 • NOVEMBER 2020 Your free local community magazine: essential local news, services & information delivered through your door every month Capel Capers™©

In Touch with Capel St Mary www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk

Capel St Mary Parish Council See page 9

Capel St Mary Primary School See page 21

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www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 1 2 In Touch online: Published by: A WORD FROM THE EDITOR Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, IP1 4JP Writing in the Irish Examiner, Mick Clifford argues that “a lot of people are finding it more difficult to view the pandemic other than through the prism of their own lives”. EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins “Sometimes,” he writes, “that view can’t offer anything beyond inconvenience, annoyance, frustration and even T: 01473 400380 resentment. In such a milieu, the plight of those who are suffering most recedes in the collective consciousness.” Send editorial copy to: [email protected] It’s a sobering argument with potentially horrifying consequences for us all if true, but I don’t agree with Mick’s Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and conclusion. Of course I’ve moaned about some of the minor inconveniences I’ve endured (home schooling wasn’t photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept exactly fun and I’m desperate to see my parents in Ireland) but I know my life hasn’t been altered in any significant responsibility for any loss. way by the pandemic, while for many it will never be the same again. The ongoing work to support those in ADVERTISING need, whether by groups formed in response to the pandemic or by longstanding organisations which have been T: 01473 400380 supporting the most vulnerable members of our society for many years, is proof positive that we, as a society, E: [email protected] haven’t lost touch with what really matters. However, we must continue to support those groups and organisations DISTRIBUTION who represent the best of us, while also complying with the restrictions to protect others and prevent further Tree Martin: 01473 400380 spread of this so-called silent killer. E: [email protected] Those of us with the means to, must also make a conscious effort to support our local businesses. Research on PRINTING ColourPlan Print: 01473 400379 spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed E: [email protected] in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business, but consider too the role our local businesses have played in recent months and the many other benefits they provide; more jobs, more choice, that personal Disclaimer: The views expressed by contributors are not touch we desire now more than ever, customer service second to none, support for local charities, space to meet, necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is originality, colour, vibrancy, reasons to visit, not to mention the positive impact on the environment and the space taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate but the publisher cannot assume any we create for new ideas to thrive. responsibility for errors or omissions. While reasonable care is taken when accepting I hate the phrase, but it really is a ‘win-win’ scenario. With Christmas on the way, please consider buying local as advertisements or editorial, the publisher/ much as possible, and when someone asks you what you want for Christmas this year, why not ask for a voucher editor will not accept responsibility for any unsatisfactory transactions and also reserves the for a local business? Your support right now may be critical. right to refuse to include advertising or editorial. They will, however immediately investigate any “Together we can change the world, just one written complaints. random act of kindness at a time.” Ron Hall © Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. IN TOUCH NEWS © In Touch with & Stowupland is This month I promised to tell you more about Colourplan Print. Colourplan is the base published by Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd upon which Mansion House Group has formed, first expanding to incorporate Musical Marketing (best known for Grapevine), then Mansion House Publishing, followed by Boswell Office Supplies and now Mansion House Media. Colourplan has been a staple presence on the local print industry since the late 80s when brothers Steve and Rob Printed on gloss paper from FSC certified sources Stone set up at Waterworks Street, Ipswich. The business moved to Wharfedale Road in 1992 and hasn’t looked Please recycle. back since. IN TOUCH TITLES The constant sound of the press in full working mode is one you get used to • Stowmarket & Stowupland •  & quickly when you work at MHG. That and the huge stacks of paper that seem • Melton & Woodbridge to disappear almost as quickly as they arrive. Every single one of the 75,000 • Manningtree, , Lawford & Mistley magazines we deliver each month is printed, finished and packed by Colourplan. • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, Finishing is the process of trimming, folding and collating pages. That’s Ash’s field Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon of expertise and requires enormous stamina and attention to detail. • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall & Warren Heath Colourplan can print just about anything, from stickers to banners and every • , Beyton, , Haughley, size, shape, colour and quantity imaginable. In fact, Colourplan was my first Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden choice before I joined Mansion House; you don’t often see the managing & Woolpit director hauling boxes of beautifully printed brochures down two flights of stairs, •  & The Creetings but that’s the service you can expect from Colourplan. They look after their • , Chelmondiston, , Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton & customers, move mountains to meet deadlines and never compromise on the •  quality of the finished product. • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton Give them a call (01473 400380) if you need a quote or just want to discuss a job. • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford Steve is always happy to talk ‘print’ and will happily share the knowledge he has & Stratford St Mary built over the years. Just don’t let him tell you one of his ‘printer’ jokes! • , Offton, Somersham & • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) What did the father printer say to the teenage printer? • , Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone & Washbrook Don’t use that toner with me. • Gt & Lt Blakenham, & Nettlestead • , Ashbocking, & • Sproughton & Burstall KEEPING IN TOUCH We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe keepingintouchwith.co.uk / spotlightmagazine.co.uk / vanillamagazine.co.uk Tues 10 November Twitter: @InTouchEast / @vanillamagazine is the advertising and Instagram: @mansionhousepublishing / @vanilla.magazine editorial deadline for Facebook: @mansionhousepublishing / @vanillamagazinesuffolk the December edition www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 3 NEWS

Due to the current restrictions the Remembrance event CAPEL ST MARY COMMUNITY CENTRE at Capel St Mary War Memorial on Sunday 8 November has been cancelled. However, villagers are encouraged to We are gradually reopening areas of centre with some groups beginning to mark the day by pausing for the two-minute silence in their home meet again. At present we are only hiring out the main hall with a Covid-19 or on their doorsteps. Villagers may also place wreathes and secure policy and guidelines in place. tributes at the memorial site during the Remembrance period providing they observe the social distancing rules. Please bear with us during these unprecedented times. We want to support the village while ensuring everybody remains safe. For more information and enquires please phone Carolyn at 07732 025676 or email: [email protected]

TRUSTEES WEEK 2020, NOVEMBER 2-6 Trustees’ Week is an annual event to showcase the great work that trustees do and highlight COUNCILLOR opportunities for people from all walks of life to get SUE CARPENDALE: OCT/NOV 2020 involved and make a difference. Babergh has Good Life Satisfaction Score Trustees are the people in charge of a charity. They help to make the UK You may have seen a recent survey which has ranked Babergh as having the sixth most giving country in the world. They play a vital role, volunteering the best life satisfaction in the county. The survey was done by the Office their time and working together to make important decisions about the for National Statistics, rating life satisfaction from zero to 10/10. Babergh charity’s work. residents gave an average score of 8.24 – above the national average of 7.66 Community Action is hosting several events for you to take part in – putting the district in first place for life satisfaction ahead of other local during the week. Visit the events page on the CAS website to look for: authorities in Suffolk. Monday: The value of Young Trustees and how to recruit successfully Housing and Land Supply Tuesday: Finance essentials for treasurers and Trustees A new report shows that Babergh has a Land Supply of 6.74 years. This is Wednesday: Introduction to the role of a Trustee good, but the government recently published two consultation papers Thursday: Social Investment for Trustees outlining major changes in planning. One sets out proposals for a completely new national planning system. The other suggests shorter-term amendments If you cannot make these events, Jayne, our Development Officer-Governance to the current system, which would take effect more quickly. and Community Buildings supports trustees throughout the year. How local housing need is calculated is one of the suggested short-term Are you an aspiring young trustee? changes. This could see a huge increase in our housing targets – rates that Young trusteeship is an incredible experience that will boost your career are felt to be undeliverable in our district and unrealistic from the market and provide opportunities to develop a range of contacts and skills. If you perspective. They also take no account of the shortage of materials and are 16-30 years old and interested in finding out more about charities and labour. It would put towns, villages and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty trusteeship contact Janet from the Young Leadership Project to find out under pressure to deliver more homes. more: [email protected] Proposals also suggest increasing the small site threshold, below which Could you become a trustee for a local charity or community group? developers are not required to contribute to affordable housing, from ten Go to www.volunteersuffolk.org. If you are interested in becoming a trustee . to 40 or 50 homes. This could almost half the number of much-needed To get involved with Trustees’ Weet, visit: affordable homes. Another suggestion would exempt developers from www.communityactionsuffolk.org.uk / www.trusteesweek.org Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which goes some way to helping local infrastructure to keep pace with housing growth. Since the start of the year, £5million of CIL funding has been allocated to local projects in Babergh and , including more than £2.5million for school improvements. Babergh Council has relayed its concerns to the government. CarsSmart Covid-19 update Babergh has one of the lowest infection rates in the country, but the financial WOODBRIDGE ipswich felixstowe impact of the virus remains. The number of people claiming Universal Credit in Suffolk has increased by around 75% (approx. 24,000) since March, with a 238% increase in the amount of food handed out to single adults and families 01473 25-25-25 from Suffolk’s foodbanks. There are also 104,000 people still furloughed from their jobs.

Contactless The Suffolk Resilience Forum now has a phoneline to help residents access low cost, high value, payments are welcome in all information or support relating to debt, benefits, housing or employment. 24 hour cab service of our vehicles Calls can be made free of charge to 0800 068 3131, from 9am to 5pm Monday Fixed-fare from Capel to Ipswich Town Centre – £12.50* to Friday. *One pick-up/one drop only - see website for details www.carssmart.co.uk [email protected] 4 In Touch online: www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 5 NEWS

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING AT THE CASE The weather couldn’t have been worse. More like January than September, the wind was blowing a hooley, the sort of lazy wind that doesn’t bother blowing around you but goes straight through. Rain was forecast and the temperature was down in single figures. Did it put us off holding our annual DEMENTIA DURING COVID-19 fundraiser for Macmillan Cancer Care? Of course not. Government guidelines obliged us to hold it outside. Two of our tents had blown down the night The impact of lockdown before and we couldn’t use our extra shelters because the wind would have A survey from Alzheimer’s Society of around 2,000 people affected by put them into orbit… well, minor details! dementia, the largest of its kind, reveals the devastating impact coronavirus We fired up the urns, cut and labelled cakes, taped down tablecloths and has had on their mental health, with a third living with dementia (32%), warning notices, weighed down cake boxes and bags with anything to hand, reporting apathy or a sense of ‘giving up’. and waited. Nearly half of respondents (45%) said that lockdown has had a ‘negative And you came! In twos, threes and fours (but never more than six of course) impact’ on their mental health. Around half of unpaid carers (46%) also – well wrapped up against the bitter cold, still smiling and all set to eat cake, reported that loved ones with the condition have experienced stress, anxiety buy cake and drink gallons of coffee. And as always, your generosity was or depression. staggering. We had expected takings to be badly affected by the weather: Many people affected by dementia have seen their social interactions badly instead, we smashed last year’s record by several hundred pounds. And the hit: final total is £1,802! • Half (50%) report they now have fewer in-depth conversations Once again Bentley and its friends have demonstrated their fantastic than before lockdown. community spirit. Well done everyone. • Over half (56%) haven’t met with family and friends from another household since the easing of lockdown rules. COPDOCK & WASHBOOOK • Three in ten (29%) have gone at least four days without having VILLAGE HALL AGM a single in-depth conversation with someone. Monday 9 November at 7.30pm in the Village Hall • One in eight (12%) revealed they have gone a whole week without spending more than five minutes talking to someone. Maximum 50 people to ensure the meeting is Covid-19 safe Information from the Alzheimer’s Website Support your village hall! So, what is happening locally? Send a representative. Join the team running the facility. During lockdown the Dementia Café in Capel had to close and is still unable Contact Hannah: [email protected] to open safely despite the easing of restrictions. Keeping in touch with the folk who attended the café has been crucial during this period. This has been done through a bi-monthly newsletter, doorstep visiting and regular phone calls from our volunteers. Many of the folk we have been keeping in touch with have reported that their loved ones have deteriorated mentally and physically during lockdown due to lack of social contact. The carers have also found the isolation hard. They have appreciated the telephone contact and the newsletter. If you are living with dementia and would like to receive our newsletter or have a regular chat with one of our volunteers, please contact me. If you would like information about dementia or are worried about a loved one, please get in touch. Margaret Sankey, Parish Occupational Therapist Caroline: 07588 706869 / [email protected] Margaret: 07588 698284 / [email protected] Rozy: [email protected] www.CapelParishNurses.org.uk

MANNINGTREE POETRY GROUP Due to the current situation, monthly meetings ofPoetry Plus are temporarily suspended. We are now producing a monthly online poetry magazine to keep poets connected and to provide an exciting collection of poetry. To discover Poetry Plus – The Magazine, which is entirely free and available to everybody, go to: https://poetryplus.org.uk/themagazine.html 6 InIn TouchTouch online:online: advertorial Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up?

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www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 7 THE POWER OF EMPATHY Providing mental health/boredom packs to the most vulnerable people in our society

“The structure and routine we had provided were so abruptly stripped away, and with it, all social contact with the colleagues and staff they had come to trust. That’s why, in addition to regular phone calls from our team of volunteers, we came up with the idea of mental health packs, made up of supplies such as CDs, DVDs, books, puzzles and clothing, to help alleviate some of the issues around boredom and loneliness, and to encourage them to stay at home when needed to protect themselves and others.” With support from the Covid-19 fund managed by Suffolk Foundation, Emmaus Suffolk expanded this offer to support people that have been in vulnerable situations throughout the pandemic and are highly susceptible to anxiety, mental health issues and further social isolation. This includes people previously sleeping rough who have been housed in temporary accommodation as a response to Covid-19, people in hostel accommodation and those who are shielding with pre-existing conditions that make them highly vulnerable to Covid-19. Current partners and referrers include Ipswich Borough Council (Housing First, rough sleepers project and young people’s housing), Felixstowe Town Council, IHAG Chapman Centre, Cavendish Lodge (emergency bed hostel), Notting Hill Geneses Housing, Housing First project run by IHAG, ACT outreach service, Withipoll Lodge (female only homeless shelter), Genesis Housing Amongst the chaos of papers and magazines on my desk are three framed Felixstowe, Talitha Koum (female only shelter), Home Start, Stowmarket photos of my son. I bought the frames at the Emmaus shop on Dales Road, Foodbank, Turning Point, Suffolk Refugee Support, GYROS and Flagship just up the road from the Mansion House Publishing office, but my knowledge Housing Group residents. All partner organisations have seen a significant of Emmaus was limited, to say the least. increase in engagement on receipt of a mental health/boredom pack. When I heard how Emmaus Suffolk has been helping to alleviate Covid-19 A further grant of £31,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund has loneliness with mental health/boredom packs, I decided to look a little enabled Emmaus to provide these packs until Dec 2020 to even more people. deeper and I would like to share what I have learned. Creating positive They would like to hear from any local/grassroots organisations working outcomes through the creation of a sense of community and belonging is with vulnerable or socially excluded people or from individuals who would what drives Emmaus, so I know you too will share their ambition and want to appreciate a pack for themselves. support their efforts. Simply get in touch by emailing [email protected]. Emmaus Suffolk is an independent local charity offering a new and different Packs can be collected by prior arrangement from Emmaus Suffolk sites in way of increasing the chances for the homeless and long-term unemployed Ipswich or Felixstowe, or, with our support, from identified sites across the in Suffolk. In the words of Chief Executive Claire Staddon, “At Emmaus we county. help generate self-esteem by giving people the chance to make a difference for themselves through meaningful activity that will benefit both themselves To assist Emmaus in its effort to reach as many people as possible, Mansion and others.” House Publishing is helping to deliver packs to local sites where they can be picked up by prior arrangement. Emmaus does this by providing work opportunities and experience to those who have been unemployed for a long time and those that are homeless or at Every month, we deliver magazines to towns and villages across Suffolk and risk of being so, and by offering volunteering roles within the (not-for-profit) our Boswell Office Supplies delivery van is on the road every day. When Claire business. mentioned the difficulty of getting packs out to people, we considered how we could help and we’re now working with Emmaus to find local, easily There are three Emmaus shops in Suffolk, on Dales Road and in Sailmakers accessible drop-off sites, such as shops and libraries, where we will drop Shopping Centre in Ipswich, and in Great Eastern Square in Felixstowe. The off packs at least once a month. We’re also planning to donate stationery shops are run by volunteers and offer an extensive range including donated products which will be especially popular with children.” good quality clothing and household goods along with ethically sourced and recycled products. The charity is passionate about helping vulnerable people If you would like to donate items for packs or can assist will deliveries in areas and reducing waste by upcycling whilst offering low-income families more we can’t cover, please contact Emmaus at [email protected]. choice of affordable goods whilst encouraging domestic recycling in the local community. If you’re in any doubt about the impact the project is having, Emmaus volunteers up-cycle donated furniture at their workshop in here is a small sample of the feedback received by Claire. Sailmakers, using recycled chalk paint. Volunteers are central at all levels “I have been having contact with a young man at Christchurch House of the business, including donation collection, sorting, repair, up-cycling who is really struggling with his mental health and finds it extremely to customer service and retail experience. Through providing occupation, difficult with the lockdown, he probably has ADHD among other issues. people gain experience, training and transferable skills and self-respect and A boredom pack made a big difference.” personal empowerment. Johnathan Dixon, Rough Sleeper Project NSFT Since opening in 2016, the charity has supported over 300 people in work- “Really good idea, people have been grabbing them and they are ready volunteering roles, whilst giving back to the community they live making a huge difference to peoples mental health” in. Each volunteer has a development plan, enabling Emmaus to identify Rob Wragg – Assertive Outreach Worker progression and future skills support required. “Thank you so much. I’ve already lit the candle and started the puzzle. I surprised myself with the puzzle and its really helped The challenges and risks faced by those who Emmaus works, many of whom with my anxiety.” Donna have very few resources, were significantly exacerbated by the impact of the pandemic. “Thank you so much for my boredom pack. I can’t express how grateful I am and thank you for your kind service in “The lockdown was extremely difficult for the people we work with, many of these circumstances.” Julie whom have mental health issues,” says Claire. 8 In Touch online: NEWS

CAPEL ST MARY PARISH COUNCIL 2020 FLORAL DISPLAY On behalf of the residents of Capel St Mary, the parish Report from the parish council meeting held via Zoom on Monday council would like to thank the following local businesses 12 October and groups for their sponsorship of this year’s floral display Present were Cllrs Bishop, Bonfield, Cowgill, Dimond, Fenn, Harris, without who this would not have been possible. It was a Hole, O’Galligan, Rogers (chairman) Ross, Thompson, Weaver, County wonderful display which we have all greatly enjoyed. Councillor Jones, Julie Lawes (clerk). FLORAL SPONSORS 2020 Persimmon Homes has submitted all pre-commencement documents Drayton Insurance, Vellacott Farm, Capel & Lt Wenham Bowls Club, Orchard and Discharge of Conditions to Babergh District Council including the Players, Capel WI, Capel Allotments Association, East of Co-op, St Construction Management Plan and landscaping plans. Persimmon has Mary’s Church, Upstix Sales. Upstix Rentals, Capel Carpet, Bowls, ROMEO. submitted their offer price to the landowner which has to be agreed Sew Soft Furnishings, CDC Dance, Friends of Capel Library, Capel Community upon and then the land transferred. Trust, Ausco Builders, South Suffolk Pickleball, Mother Indian Takeaway, JMA Construction and Goodwin & Gould Ltd. Work is expected to commence end of November 2020. Temporary closure of footpath 61 on Butchers Lane is to commence from 26 In gratitude to the Covid-19 Volunteer Group, Pinewood Property October 2020 for a period of up to six months (26/04/2021). Developments. Beacon Coffee Shop. Tremaine Plumbing & Heating, Capel Community Church, Capel Methodist Church and Smy IT. The summer floral display has now been removed from the shopping precinct. Thank you to all the sponsors who made this possible. If you are interested in sponsoring this event, please contact the clerk: 01473 314103 / [email protected] We are also thankful to Capel Allotments Association for providing a wonderful display and the Co-op for allowing us to GLASS RECYCLING GENERATED COMMUNITY FUND present this each year for residents to enjoy. Capel St Mary Parish Council is fortunate to receive income from the funds raised through the glass recycling facility situated at Bypass Nurseries on The next meeting of the Capel St Mary Parish Council will be a virtual Road. meeting via Zoom on Monday 9 November. The income received from amounts to approximately £1,600 throughout the There is an open session at each meeting when members of the public year, which the council would like to open to applications from local groups may speak. for any planned projects that will benefit members of our community. The actual minutes of the meeting are available for viewing at the Previously, to name but a few, funds raised from this have been donated to parish council office at 27a The Street, Capel St Mary, which is open on the War Memorial Trust towards for our new village memorial, paid for the Tuesdays from 10am to noon and from 1-3pm on Fridays. hard surface on which the glass recycling units are sited, the Scout Group for The parish clerk can be contacted on 01473 314103 during these new canoes, toward a new roof on the Scout Hut and much more. times. An answerphone operates outside these hours and messages Initial contact can be made with the parish council clerk: 01473 314103 / are picked up every day. Alternatively, contact can be made by email [email protected] to: [email protected] The deadline for applications is Friday 4 December 2020. www.capelstmary.onesuffolk.net Remember, using the Bypass Nurseries Glass Recycling facility helps contribute to your community.

DISTRICT COUNCIL CHAIRMAN RE-ELECTED TO SERVE A SECOND TERM

Councillor Kathryn Grandon was re-elected this year’s planned May Ball, so I will have to find other ways to support chairman of Babergh District Council at the annual these three charities who have continued to be a lifeline for many during council meeting on 22 September; this will be her these extraordinary times.” second term as chairman of the council. Trevor Sheldrick, Chair of the Dementia Action Alliance said: “Hadleigh Cllr Grandon was first elected to Babergh District Dementia Action Alliance would like to congratulate Cllr Grandon and are Council in 2011 and served as Cabinet Member delighted that she has seen fit to continue her support. In these difficult for Communications before being nominated as times it is good to know we can count on such prominent involvement chairman in May 2019. She is the Independent with our work, which has become even more crucial in preventing the Member for Hadleigh South. devastating effects of loneliness and isolation that dementia can cause both to those suffering and the loved ones who care for them. Cllr Kathryn Grandon said: “I am so pleased to have the opportunity to serve a second term as chairman of Babergh District Council. I have Keith Marsland, Chair of the Hadleigh Sea Scout Group said: “We are enjoyed meeting so many people and groups across the district during delighted that Cllr Grandon has chosen to support the young people of my extended civic year. Hadleigh in this way. More so, in current times, when our fundraising activities have been cancelled.” “I know that the year ahead will have some challenges, but I am looking th forward to being able to represent my district once again, where our Gloria Powell, Guide and Brownie leader of the 5 Hadleigh St Mary’s communities have come together to support one another in so many Guides said: “We are delighted that Kathryn has chosen us as one of different ways. her charities to support this year. Any monies we receive will be greatly appreciated and will be put to good use, supporting our activities and the “I will continue to support the work of Hadleigh Dementia Action Alliance equipment we needed to run the Units. Our congratulations to Kathryn and additionally, the Hadleigh Scouts and Hadleigh Guides as my chosen on being elected as chairman again this year; she is so committed to charities. Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 restrictions, I had to cancel working for the community.” www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 9 NEWS

CONSTABLE COUNTRY PRACTICE SELF-ISOLATION SUPPORT FOR Flu Vaccination Programme LOW-INCOME EARNERS This year, all flu vaccinations will be by appointment only. We aim to complete vaccinations by the end of November and we will be contacting all eligible Residents on low-incomes and unable to work because they have been asked patients through this period, initially prioritising vulnerable patients and to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace, can now claim a £500 payment to patients with medical conditions that put them at risk. compensate for loss of earnings. Please be patient and do not contact the practice regarding flu vaccinations As part of a nationwide government scheme, residents in Ipswich, Babergh as the reception team will not be able to book them. The practice will contact and Mid Suffolk who are on low incomes and are unable to work because all eligible patients in due course. they have been told by NHS Test and Trace that they have to self-isolate can now apply for a lump sum payment from their local councils. The money will When attending the practice for a flu vaccination, please arrive atyour be paid into their accounts within days of their applications being verified, to appointment time but not more than five minutes early. Please follow strict relieve immediate financial hardship. guidelines regarding hand sanitising and wearing of face masks/coverings. In addition, please wear appropriate clothing so you can quickly expose your People who receive notification from NHS Test and Trace to self-isolate upper left arm for vaccinating. This will enable us to deliver vaccinations because they have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for efficiently and safely. Covid-19, will be entitled to a £500 support payment if they meet all of the following requirements: For appointments at East Bergholt, please go directly to the waiting room at your appointment time and follow the signs. At Capel St Mary, please wait • They comply with the NHS Test and Trace notification to self-isolate outside the rear entrance to be called for your vaccination. • are employed or self-employed Capel St Mary Premises • are unable to work from home and will lose income as a result We have now reopened our Capel St Mary site and have GP, Nurse, Phlebotomy and Flu Clinics operating every week. However, as space is more • and in receipt of one of the following benefits: Universal Credit, Working restricted at our Capel site please avoid visiting in person unless you have an Tax Credit, Income-based Employment and Support Allowance, Income- appointment or need to collect or drop off documents or a sample. based Job Seeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit, Pension If you have an appointment at Capel, please phone the practice to notify us Credit of your arrival and then wait for the clinician to call you in. If you have a flu Discretionary payments may also be available in exceptional circumstances to appointment, you do not need to notify us; just wait outside the rear door at individuals who meet the main qualifying criteria (i.e. low-income and unable your appointment time. Please avoid visiting Capel reception if we can deal to work because they are self-isolating) but are not in receipt of qualifying with your query by phone. If you do need to visit then please use the main benefits and are facing severe financial hardship. doors and follow directions to the reception hatch. Please socially distance yourself from pharmacy customers who may be in the waiting room. The scheme is being administered on behalf of all three local authorities by the Shared Revenue Partnership – with a fast and simple application form Coronavirus Update now available on the councils’ websites (see below for links), together with If we are to avoid further restrictions and minimise the number of infections, information about how to easily provide the evidence required and further we must continue with the measures which have been in place over the last details about the scheme. few months to protect both staff and patients from Covid-19. To apply and find out more: Our primary objective at the practice is to minimise the need for patients to come to the practice at all, but if they need to then to minimise the risk. Here Ipswich: ipswich.gov.uk/content/self-isolation-support-payments is a summary of the measures we have put in place: Babergh: babergh.gov.uk/benefits/coronavirus-money-and-benefits-advice • If possible, submit any medical or admin query via our online eConsult service. We aim to respond to all eConsults within two working days. Mid Suffolk:midsuffolk.gov.uk/benefits/coronavirus-money-and-benefits-advice • If you cannot use eConsult or if your need is urgent, our receptionists will Claims must be made within 14 days of a period of self-isolation place you on a triage list and one of our doctors or nurse practitioners will ending. Individuals eligible on or after Monday 28 September will be able to call you back. make a backdated claim. • If you need to come to the practice, the clinician will ask you to wait in your Residents are also reminded of the launch of the Suffolk Support and Advice car with your mobile. Please inform the practice when you have arrived. Service to help people access information or support relating to debt, The clinician will then call you when they are ready to see you. benefits, housing or employment. • You must tell us if you are experiencing any Covid-19 symptoms such as Citizens Advice Suffolk Alliance, which includes the eight Citizens Advice fever, a new cough, or loss of taste and smell. Bureaus across Suffolk, and Anglia Care Trust and Ipswich Housing Action Group are delivering advice and support to people through a single phone • Please wear a mask or wrap a scarf around you face when you come to the line. The phone line is funded by Suffolk Public Sector Leaders and has practice, and sanitise your hands. been developed by Suffolk-wide partners on the Collaborative Communities Please be assured that you can contact us if you feel you need to speak to Covid-19 Board, which is part of the Suffolk Resilience Forum. a clinician about any health concerns you may have. If you have concerns People can contact the Suffolk Support and Advice Service on 0800 068 3131 regarding the health of vulnerable patients, please inform us. between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday or go to: tinyurl.com/y37z48n9 Thank you for your continued support and co-operation. Submitted on behalf of Babergh District Council, Mid Suffolk District Council Practice Manager Pete Keeble and Ipswich Borough Council

10 In Touch online: ww Is your hearing ready for Christmas? We know that Christmas may be different this year, but what is certain is spending time with loved ones (whether in person or virtually) will still be a top priority. Ensure that you don’t miss out on festive conversations by booking a hearing test with The Hearing Care Centre. Find us at r appo 11 Upper Brook Street, IPSWICH ou in y tm Health by Design, HADLEIGH k o Call e o n

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☑ Rigorous cleaning procedures ☑ Full use of PPE y ☑ Staggered appointments to avoid patient contact

■ Award Winning ■ Family Run ■ Independent ■ Local hearingcarecentre.co.uk www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 11 12 In Touch online: NEWS / OUT & ABOUT

SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM Police are urging residents to be vigilant of fraudsters claiming to be police officers following recent incidents in . Although this is a distance KEV’S CHRISTMAS MARKET away, I feel it is still worthy of note.

The incidents have all included the offender pretending to be police officers Creative metalworker Kev Colbear is and asking for money, either to help with a relative who has been arrested holding a series of outdoor weekend or to help catch criminal gangs. Genuine police officers or staff would never Christmas markets at his workshop in approach residents and ask for cash withdrawals to be made or for people to East Bergholt. purchase items on their behalf. The event will begin on Saturday 14 Police would ask people with vulnerable relatives, friends or neighbours to November and end on December 20 make sure they are aware of this type of scam. and will take place every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm at Officers have this advice: Woodlands Farm, Park Road, East • Never give out personal information about your bank account to anybody Bergholt CO7 6XT. Each weekend there over the phone. will be a carefully selected bunch of • If someone calls to your home claiming to be a police officer, ask for their independent local artisans and makers photo identification, officer number and police force. If the person phones, all waiting to show their amazing hang up and call 101 using a different phone. If you can’t use a different wares. phone, wait at least five minutes before calling back. A genuine police Kev says: “I’m really excited to be officer will not mind waiting while you check. hosting a series of real-life events! So • Police and banks will never ask you to give out personal details such as many markets and events that makers account or PIN numbers. usually attend at this time of year • If you have given out information which could compromise your bank cannot go ahead, understandably, and so I decided to put on my own. account security in any way, call your bank to cancel your cards as soon I’m lucky to have a couple of big as possible. fields where social distancing can be • Never hand over money to someone at the door to be sent off elsewhere. made easy. There will be sanitiser and In other news, Suffolk Police have started a campaign to advise people on the signage and whatever is needed to best ways to contact the police. keep shoppers safe. There is plenty of parking and we’ll have food and drinks too. I’d be delighted if people chose to do their Christmas shopping locally, The Contact and Control Room (CCR) continues to receive high volumes of from independent businesses that need support.” calls, particularly at weekends and during holiday periods. With the surge in Kev is bringing together a collective of local artisans and makers to offer you calls, this can inevitably mean there is an impact on waiting times. the chance to get festive and shop local. Different makers will attend each Instead of waiting on the phone, residents can go to the force’s website and weekend so follow Kev on social media or visit his website for details of who report non-urgent crime online by clicking the ‘report something’ button. The you can expect to see when you plan your visit. matter will then be dealt with in the same way as a call to 101. It may even be Kev adds: “By mixing up the makers each weekend if people want to come quicker and more convenient. more than once or bring different sets of friends, they’ll always see something • To report something, visit: www.suffolk.police.uk/contact-us new. I’ll have all of my creative metalwork on display: obelisks and arches, orbs, hornets and bulrushes for your garden as well as unusual sculptures • For advice regarding crime prevention, anti-social behaviour, animal that I’ve made this year. I’d love to see you all” protection and many other matters, go to: www.suffolk.police.uk/advice • Please always ring 999 in an emergency. Follow @kevcolbeardesign on Instagram and Facebook and @kevcolbear on Twitter or visit www.kevcolbear.com for up to date information and Have a good November, PC 287 Sarah George scheduling for Kev’s Christmas Market.

CAPEL LADIES CLUB QUIZ-WORD 1

Answer each question and fill the grid in this Suffolk quiz to find the hidden 2 message! 3 1. Traditional local breed of heavy horse (7,5) 4 2. Site of 1st UK Radar Station (7) 3. Good place to go crabbing! (11) 5

4. Site of famous concert hall (5) 6 5. Springwatch 2016 came from here! (8) 7 6. Martyred King of the East Angles (6) 8 7. Coastal town with remains under the sea since the 13th century (7) 8. Tudor Archbishop, Thomas… whose surname was given to our local theatre (6) 9

9. The UK’s busiest container port (10) 10 10. An annual sailing barge race starts here! (3,3) 11 11. The artist John Constable was born here (4,8) !

(Down) What we all need to try and do! on p18 Answers www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 13 OUT & ABOUT

NEWS FROM CAPEL LIBRARY It has been great to see so many people back in the library and supporting the staff. We are still limited to four people browsing at any one time, plus one STOUR VALLEY U3A person on the public computer. We would polity ask that where possible one parent visits with one child, which we will class as one unit. We also operate a Knocked back by Covid-19, we are now rebuilding as quickly as is safely one-way system, with hand sanitising, face masks and track and trace. possible. The majority of our activity groups, including walking, ten pin bowling, fitness, canoeing and kayaking, are back up and running. Other The public computer is also available to book through a member of staff. You groups, from philosophy, to book club and languages, continue to operate will need your library card to make the booking over the phone and when you using Zoom and the gardening group has some visits planned, including a arrive at the library. Please note the computer is on a priory-based booking week away to Harrogate. system for those needing emails, job seekers, universal credit, HMRC, etc. Photocopying and printing are now available. We are always open to new members. Our fee for 2020/21 is just £8. To find out more, visit our website to see how we work and get the latest updates The Home Library Service is now back up and running with two new lovely about our local activities. volunteers. If know of anyone who would benefit from this service, please ask them to get in touch. This is a service we offer for those people who are You can also get in touch by email with: housebound but still love to read or listen to books. It’s us bringing the library Graham Manuel (chair): [email protected] to you. Sue Basted (secretary): [email protected] We are hoping to get back to our normal opening hours as soon as possible. www.stourvalleyu3a.org.uk Please keep an eye on our website – www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/libraries/ capel-st-mary-library – Facebook page and our front door. MANNINGTREE & DISTRICT If you have items to return, please continue to pop them back through our book drop. PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY We also now have some lovely new (second hand) jigsaws for people to We kicked off our new season virtually on September 10 borrow, swap or buy for £1. Our book sale trolley is available with books with a Zoom get-together for members to share images from 30p. taken during the summer. Our second meeting was an excellent talk on using Photoshop Lightroom with lots of useful tips to improve the images we take. For up to date information visit: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/coronavirus We are a small and friendly group of photography enthusiasts who (in The Friends of Capel Library normal times) meet up on the Essex/Suffolk border. The club aims to provide It is hoped to reactivate Friends Group activities as and when Covid-19 an enjoyable environment for members to enjoy the development of their restrictions are eased. The trustees will meet in early October to determine photographic skills through a variety of activities in the company of like- a way forward. minded individuals. We would be pleased to welcome you to one of our The 100 Club has been operating normally but other activities have been evenings once it is safe to resume or to join a Zoom meeting before then. severely affected. As a thank you for your continuing support, there will be As well as our Zoom meetings, the Facebook challenge continues to keep three bonus 100 Club prizes of £20 in December to those who were 100 Club members motivated with a new subject every two weeks. The latest challenge members up to September 1, 2020. was jointly won by Rachel Scott and Kevin Cannings. Rachel’s image, Sunrise Looking ahead, forms for 2021 membership and 100 Club renewal are at Flatford, is featured this month available at the library. The new season continues via Zoom and details of our programme are on the The trustees look forward to seeing you in 2021, website. The next meeting on October 29 is a presentation entitledMy Kinda Street with Tony Bramley. We have two competitions in November; Standing Thanks Bob (Treasurer) out in a Crowd on Thursday 12, and Seasons on Thursday 26. All meetings will be held via Zoom until January 2021. Normally our meetings are held at 7.30pm on the second, fourth and fifth Thursdays at the St Johns Ambulance STOUR VALLEY MEN’S PROBUS CLUB Centre, Station Road, Manningtree CO11 1EB. Sadly, this will be the last article appearing in this magazine New members are welcome to join us via Zoom, or may attend initially as from our club. An extra-ordinary meeting, called by the visitors. Please contact our secretary, Viv Scurrell for details: 01206 393751 / committee, was held on Wednesday 16 September at the [email protected] Covid-19 secure Ogilvie Hall in Lawford to discuss the future of the club. https://e-voice.org.uk/manningtreeanddistrictphotographicsociety In past years, we have been unable to recruit sufficient new members despite a strong presence in many local magazines and the local paper. With an aging membership, most members had, over the years, held various committee positions. Having been formed in 1985 we have held meetings at various local halls and we now find ourselves without access to our current venue, the St John Ambulance HQ in Manningtree, with no known date for a future opening, if at all. The number of active members has reduced to such a position which is not self-financing, and the committee recommended to members that the club be closed. After discussion, the proposition was unanimously approved by the members present and following the constitution, it was agreed that funds held by the club after all debts are paid-off will be distributed to charity as agreed by the committee. Please ring Dave Carman on 01255 880202 or Graeme Forsyth on 01206 399049 if you need to contact the club. 14 In Touch online: WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME FOR A NEW WILL?

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www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 15 16 In Touch online: OUT & ABOUT

CAPEL ALLOTMENTS ASSOCIATION GUIDE TO GARDENING IN NOVEMBER 2020 Veg Plot ALLOTMENT NEWS Pick frost tender crops, clear ground and get started on winter digging Membership incorporating well-rotted manure, composted garden waste or If you haven’t yet, please pay your subs and plot rental by BACS, cheque mushroom compost. Sow broad beans, lettuce under cloches and peas or cash. If you would like to join the association, please visit our website. under fleece. Plant garlic cloves. Use slug repellant. Cut back yellowing Membership is just £5 per annum. asparagus foliage to two inches. Feed compost heaps with sulphate of ammonia. Autumn Seed Scheme Submit paper seed orders to Phil by November 5 or to request a personal Fruit Apply a winter tree wash to fruit trees and bushes to control overwintering access discount code to order online. insect pests. Remove summer fruited raspberry canes and tie in new Autumn Work-In shoots. Order and plant trees and bushes with a dusting of bone meal. Thanks to everyone who was able to join us for the autumn work-in. Greenhouse We cleared another batch of jobs to keep the site looking smart and we Empty greenhouse and wash down with Jeyes. Line with 1.5m wide bubble found time to enjoy a steaming mug of tea or coffee and present the Best plastic. Bring in all frost tender plants. Check for and spray whitefly. Apply Kept Allotment trophy and prizes to Andrew Tokely, Gavin Leeks, Dennis slug pellets. Wash all pots and trays in Jeyes. Try sowing carrots, spring Smith, Graham Whybrow and Andrew Howells. onions, radish and lettuce in large pots, transplant lettuce when large The Hut: Winter Closing enough. Polytunnel plot holders please clear everything by the end of We re-open on Saturday 6 February 2021. Until then members are November into the white tunnel in preparation for refurbishment. welcome to follow the online sales format for all your gardening Flowers requirements: fleece, bubble plastic, in fact our full range of garden Plant spring-flowering bulbs in pots or outside as soon as spaceis products and other sundry items such as water softener salt, block salt, available. Plant wallflowers, Sweet Williams, carnations, pinks, pansies, wild bird seed, pea nuts and lump wood charcoal (for the winter hardy polyanthus and heathers. Sow sweet peas. Mulch borders with chipped cooks)… bark. Divide perennials. Cultivator Hire Lawns A cultivator is available for hire for onsite use only. The fee is £10 for the Re-seed worn areas. Aerate and scarify with a wire rake. Apply an autumn first two hours. To hire this equipment please give Dennis as much notice feed. Mow with blades set at medium height as possible. Dennis is the contact for any matters relating to the site: [email protected] Stay safe. Maintain social distance, eat fresh healthy food. Exercise. For a more extensive version of this article please visit: www.capelallotments.co.uk

www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 17 OUT & ABOUT / SCHOOLS

BENTLEY & COPDOCK PRIMARY SCHOOLS EBONY’S BLOG As the nights draw in and we begin the second half of the school term, we would normally turn our attention to our Christmas celebrations – learning LIFE AT THE SHELLEY CENTRE songs, practicing plays and organising fayres. However, this year is going to look slightly different. Keep a close eye on the school website to see how we Goodness, where has this year gone? Did you manage to celebrate All Hallows are going to be celebrating this year. Eve at all I wonder? I hear there were some innovative solutions to the social distancing requirements. The first half term has flown by, with the children and parents adapting brilliantly to all the new regimes in place. Year 6 at Copdock enjoyed the We have not been able to be as innovative as my humans had thought, so Bikeability sessions which they sadly missed in the summer term. KS2 it’s still only possible for independent riders to attend the centre. It feels very participated in a football club after school. At Copdock our student teacher strange to be so underused. has been running an archaeology club which the children have been thoroughly enjoying. A massive thank you to all of the families who generously donated food for our Harvest Festival. It was a real bumper crop and boosted the collections made in our villages. The lovely Rev Don Mehen has taken the items to the West Villa charity that helps homeless families in Ipswich. At this time of year, we usually welcome parents whose children will be starting next September to look around our school. However, this year we will be holding virtual presentations and an opportunity to chat with the EYFS class teacher and deputy head. These will be held on Wednesday 18 November at 6pm for Copdock, and Thursday 19 November at 6pm for Bentley. If you would like to join us for this event, please contact the relevant school to leave your details so that a link can be sent to you nearer the time.

We did have the wonderful morale boost of a Royal Visit that went off very There is also an opportunity for you to visit our schools after hours by well indeed. HRH The Princess Royal flew in by helicopter, was welcomed appointment. Please get in touch with us to book your visit. For more by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant, met our two wonderful landlords Jane Crow information about the schools in general, you can find our prospectus on the and Andrew Scott, and then concentrated on the 30 people who represented homepage of our website. the rest of the Shelley crew. She watched a demonstration ride, chatted with Gladwells to the rescue! everyone, saw some of the live horses and watched Mia riding on me. We are exceedingly grateful to Mark Gladwell of Gladwell’s Pet and Country Certificates for very long service were presented to the instructors, and for Store, Copdock, who donated three wonderful sacks of chicken feed to help long attendance to the riders. There really were some 30-year certificates! support our feathery friends! We put a call out in a previous edition of this The weather obliged, the yard looked gorgeous, all the planning and hard magazine and he contacted us with his benevolent offer. Thank you so much, work beforehand paid off. It was a relaxed and happy morning, which will go it means a great deal! down in our collective memories with great joy. For more news and up to date information about the schools, please visit: My photo shows HRH presenting a certificate to Jackie, watched by Lyn, www.bentleycopdock.co.uk our mum, our chairman Jan, and Alfie. Note the sensible use of a table for Copdock Primary: 01473 730337 / [email protected] distancing and gloves for the Princess! You can see many more pictures on our website. Bentley Primary: 01473 310253 / [email protected] My little black friend Squidgey gave us a laugh last month when she took advantage of an open door into the office. She was found by Lyn munching CAPEL LADIES CLUB QUIZ-WORD – ANSWERS through a picnic, one apple and one pear down, a chocolate brownie in its S U F F O L K P U N C H wrapper disappearing into her little mouth. Squidgey’s teeth are loose: she has two short feeds a day to sustain her as eating grass is too difficult for B A W D S E Y her now. The problem can obviously be overcome if the menu is interesting enough! W A L B E R S W I C K I know you are all facing a tough winter with many S N A P E

happy gatherings curtailed. Our humans have M I N S M E R E decided to forgo their Christmas party the carol service which usually marks the end of the winter E D M U N D term. It’s going to be strange but, like everybody D U N W I C H else, we shall just have to live differently. W O L S E Y The good news is that all the live horses and ponies and well and happy, able-bodied riders F E L I X S T O W E continue to keep them stimulated, some of our disabled riders are back in the saddle and the P I N M I L L Covid-19 precautions are now routine. See you E A S T B E R G H O L T next month. ! www.shelleyrda.com / 01473 824172

18 In Touch online: SUFFOLK

Don’t get the winter blues With the darker nights and the weather turning colder and a little wetter it’s easy to find reasons not to exercise. Here at In Touch, we are passionate about helping our readers to get and stay active this winter, whether that’s working out at home with the great free resources available online, outside in a safe way taking part in activities like walking, jogging and cycling or back playing a team sport where appropriate. Over the past eight months we have been working in partnership with Keep Moving Su­olk to provide you with ideas, resources, and information to help you not only get active but stay active and this month is no di­erent. We hope you find the resources helpful and keep you moving this winter.

It may be damp, a little cold and even dark in the evening’s, but why not set yourself a challenge and start your couch to 5k now and have a spring in your step come April 2021! Time spent outside doing some physical activity will help boost both your physical and mental health in these challenging times. Get started at: www.keepmovingsu olk.com/staying-active/

If you are looking for motivation and a reason not to put your bike in the shed or garage for the winter now’s the time to sign up to Love to Ride Su­olk. Ride anywhere, anytime for fun, fitness, or transportation to earn points, rewards, and prizes. You can win bikes, bike gear, gift cards and more. Join today at: www.lovetoride.net/su olk Exercising Indoors If the great outdoors is not for you during the winter months, then why not take advantage of the vast array of online resource and workouts that you can do indoors, and the great thing is there all free on the Keep Moving Su­olk website! www.keepmovingsu olk.com/exercise-in-your-home

www.keepmovingsu olk.com

@keepmovingsu olk @keepmovingsu olk @Most_Active www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 19 20 In Touch online: SCHOOLS

CAPEL ST MARY PRIMARY SCHOOL ROBIN’S NEWS The whole school community is now used to the arrangements that we have Baby Bears in place to ensure that we are Covid-19 secure. The staggered start, playtimes We have had another move around in the baby room and as the babies and lunchtimes now seem a regular part of school life and the children have sleep outside most of the time, we have turned the sleep room into a ‘cosy adjusted very well. room’. There are still cots in the room, and we can close the door to give them a safe, dark and quiet place to sleep but for most of the day, the door is Some of you may recall that we recently open with dimmed lights. Our cosy area is the home for our tepee, with our had a piece published in the East Anglian books, lots of cushions, a duvet and blankets. This area is also a lovely space Daily Times which showed out Hearts of for sensory activities; we had a bubble machine with fish very kindly donated Hope project. We are delighted to have which plays music and displays lights. This provides the opportunity for some such a wonderful quilt in the school lovely time engaging different senses. and our thanks go to the parents and grandparents who helped to make this Toddling Tigers quilt such a thing of beauty. It now sits As the weather has been changing with an autumnal chill filling the air, the proudly on the wall in the main corridor children have been loving all things autumn, using the many natural resources and provides a focal point for the children. in the garden within our activities. Our playdough station is extending, and we We feel it is really important that the have been enjoying the smell of cinnamon and using conkers and leaves to children have a chance to recall what make lots of new creations. Our mud kitchen has been used to create acorn happened during the spring and summer soup and leaf tea! Our group time is filled with conversations of cold weather, of this year and this gives them a way to colour changes and lots of singing to help the children to recognise rhythmic do this positively. patterns and extend ideas of weather amongst friends. Unit Three are learning about the Second Our art and crafts station also helps us to explore new materials, allowing World War. They bring to this subject a lot the children to embrace new colours, textures and new ways to make marks of knowledge and we are looking forward on paper with materials such as feathers and leaves. We are also getting to a visit from the ‘Home Guard’. The used to putting on our wet weather clothing of rain suits and wellies. Then children have also had an opportunity we can enjoy splashing in puddles and walks through leaves and collecting to have a virtual tour of a synagogue and learn about the building and how our autumn treasures! We are continuing our explorations and we shall be members of the Jewish faith worship there. experimenting very soon with a variety of pumpkins and using all parts in lots of areas of our play. We have several places at the school; if you are aware of a child needing a place please do contact the school office so we can arrange a time for you to Gruffalos look around our wonderful school. Unfortunately, this will be at a time when It might seem strange, but the children have very few traditional toys the children are not present, but you will still be able to get a good flavour to play with. They have core items such as trains, cars and dolls, the rest of what we do. of the resources are what we describe as authentic resources. Using these authentic resources means that the children get to explore things they see Currently, we have places in our Nursery and EYFS. We have four spaces in in the real world, making sense of what they see adults using. Imagine being Year 1 and five in Year 2. In Unit Two we have spaces in Years 3 and 4 and in three or four years old and using real teacups and a teapot in the water, being Unit Three we have four spaces in Year 6. trusted to use china, not being told you can only have plastic items in case Headteacher Sean Cornish you break things. The children are learning how to respect these resources, understanding that if they are dropped or banged together, they will break. MANNINGTREE HIGH SCHOOL Exploring an environment where the children are learning that plastic isn’t needed all the time and exploring different textures and learning how When the students began things work, builds up confidence and self-esteem and trust. We find that term at Manningtree High the children concentrate for longer and are calmer when using these items, School this year, it wasn’t taking time to discover how to make something work. These resources can just the Year 7 students who be used however the children need to use them in their play, although much were experiencing something of what we see is the children copying what they see adults around them do. new. Of course, there were Meerkats adjustments required to keep The Meerkats have been enjoying the occasional sunny session. We have had the students as Covid-safe as the mats out on the playing field, developing physical skills with lots of rolling possible but there were also and stretching exercises. In the club garden, the daddy-longlegs have been two new buildings ready for intriguing to watch and the number of them is amazing. Whilst indoors Hama their use. Just before the term beads seem to be trending again; these are always a firm favourite and we started, we invited the Bishop have been making lots of colourful creations. of Colchester to bless all our new facilities. If you have any questions or require any information about the nursery, please contact us: 01473 310767 / [email protected] Between the start of Lockdown and the beginning of the summer holidays, the school was open to children of key workers. Some Year 10 students returned in June, and whilst it was lovely to welcome them back, the school still felt very empty. It was, therefore, a real joy to see all the students and staff back on-site in September. The students and staff have adapted well to the restrictions and changes necessitated by the pandemic. We can’t run all the events and activities that we normally would, of course. Losing Open Evening, for example, was a real shame. Information for Year 6 parents and students can be found onour website. www.manningtreehigh.com www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/capelcapers 21 SPORT / CHURCH NEWS

CAPEL ST MARY BOWLS CLUB

We have reached the end of a very to Carol Warrington in recognition of the work she and her team did in strange season and our green is recruiting new members and helping them to gain a good grasp of the closed until 2021. Through the basics of the game including the etiquette of the game. season we managed to organise We had our green cleanup day at the end of September when 10 or so of a couple of competitions, but no our club did some sterling work on the green to prepare it for winter and league or normal club tournaments next year. Thanks to Dave Evans for organising the team and to all who took place. turned up, including Marion for keeping us well watered. On a plus note, we have gained 10 If you have an interest in playing outdoor bowls next year, new members through the year, please contact us. most of whom benefitted from coaching which resulted in two of All our latest news can be found at: them playing on finals day. Well www.capelstmarybowls.onesuffolk.net done to John Howe and Steve Or contact us by email: [email protected] Bumphrey. Keep safe everyone. The photo shows George Wiseman presenting the President’s Cup Jack high

THE SEASON OF ADVENT ADOPTING AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE The weather changed so dramatically and suddenly in October, we were It has been said that giving thanks infuses joy and resilience into your daily taken by surprise, weren’t we? We collected a large number of contributions life. Adopting an attitude of gratitude can be difficult in the best of times. for FIND, one of our charities for this year, at our Harvest Services. The school With another spike in Covid-19 and all that goes with it, we may feel that it also collected at theirs. is impossible. I am so grateful for the seasons, and for autumn and thick tights and warm There are many positive published quotes about gratitude. Here are some nights in front of the fire. But I also miss the sunshine and open air. Seasons of them. remind us of the pattern of our lives, and we are blessed in Capel with wonderful walks to see nature changing, even if it is a bit blustery. And don’t “As with all commandments, gratitude is a description of a successful get me started on the slimy Capel mud! mode of living. The thankful heart opens our eyes to a multitude of blessings that continually surround us.” And now we are in the season of Advent. The celebrates James E Faust the seasons and the scarf we wear (stole) represents the seasons. Purple for Advent, red for Christmas, white for Easter and purple for Lent. My stoles “The more grateful I am, the more beauty I see.” Mary Davis are very beautiful, and I have taken them into school for the children to see. “As with all commandments, gratitude is a description of a successful mode of living. The thankful heart opens our eyes to a multitude Advent comes from the Latin word Adventus which means coming and we of blessings that continually surround us.” are waiting expectantly to welcome baby Jesus into the world. It is about James E Faust patience and expectation and excitement. I love chocolate as much as anyone (maybe more!) and I have a chocolate calendar, and Amy and Alice my grown- “I’ve had a remarkable life. I seem to be in such good places at the up children demand them. In the church we have an Advent wreath and each right time. You know, if you were to ask me to sum my life up in one word, Sunday before Christmas we light a candle. gratitude.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer Christmas this year is going to be very different. It may be that you are “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest worried about the cost, worried about the expectation. It may be that you appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” won’t be able to be with your family. Let us think of others and try to make John F Kennedy it a time of comfort and joy. A time where the light shines in the darkness. Gratitude can be felt and expressed for little things that mean such alot St Mary’s be going into the school to do ‘takeaway Christingle Bags’ to collect to the recipient. Last week I phoned some of our seniors who, up until last money for the Children’s Society. Jesus’ light shines across the darkness. Faith March were regular attenders at our monthly church lunches. I asked one of is strong in Capel. them how they were and whether they needed anything. The reply was that Advent Windows it was telephone calls such as mine she was very grateful for, as it encouraged Together with the school, we are going to have an Advent Window her to keep pressing on, despite the restrictions. Competition. Can we light up Capel with some lovely Advent designs? Each The Bible has much to say about gratitude, especially in the New Testament. bubble at school will make a class Advent calendar with candles, camels, Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians 5 v 16 -18 says- “Always be joyful. Never donkeys, hay, wise men and, of course, baby Jesus in the centre window. stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who These will be displayed in St Mary’s Church. Maybe in this time of uncertainty, belong to Christ Jesus.” (NLT). Notice the words are in all circumstances, not faith, light and hope are the things we need to focus on. for all circumstances; there is, of course, a big difference. The first Sunday of Advent is on November 29. Please gather your foil, tissue No doubt on Remembrance Sunday (8 November), we shall remember with paper and sticky-backed plastic and let us fill all our windows with the true gratitude those who gave their lives for our freedom. An Attitude of Gratitude meaning of Christmas in 2020. I will write to you from school to invite you to is not easy but with God’s help and presence in our lives, we can follow the take part. But there is no age limit, we are all young at heart! Let us light up example of Jesus and be grateful for his transforming power, which can Capel with a real Advent Adventure. change our lives to be thankful in all circumstances. Love and Blessings, Rev Sally Peter Matthews, Capel Community Church The Rectory, Days Road, Capel St Mary / 01473 311505 www.capelcpmmunitychurch.org.uk 22 In Touch online: CHURCH NEWS

CAPEL METHODIST CHURCH

Yesterday, Today and Forever yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall November 1 is traditionally All Saints’ Day, a day for looking back and be like him”. remembering loved ones who have died. The term All Saints doesn’t just If we are children of God, then there will be the family likeness, like refer to those who have been formally made saints by their church; it’s a Jesus, the son of God. More and more we should be growing in Christ’s general term for everyone adhering to the Christian faith (never assumed likeness. Now before anyone says to me, I know lots of people in Church to be perfect). When the apostle Paul wrote letters to the churches, he who aren’t very Christlike (I include myself in that group), it’s a lifetime often greeted them as the saints a in‘ town’ (e.g. “saints in Ephesus” journey to grow into Christlikeness. John implies we only fully like him Ephesians 1:2). when we get to heaven. This is God’s gift to us, not the result of the good It’s over 220 days since the lockdown was ordered and we are still things we may have done. under some restrictions with no end in view. Most of us will have known God’s provision of salvation for us through his son Jesus Christ. With someone who has died, if not of Covid-19 then of old age or other all the changes we have seen in our lives over these days there is one sickness. Many of the funerals that have taken place have done so with constant. In Hebrew 13:8 it says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, restricted numbers and short tributes. today and forever”. He never changes, he loves you, His salvation is Visits with loved ones have been restricted and we have felt cheated available to all. In all the uncertainty know your destination. Please get in out of saying a personal goodbye. I know I have felt inadequate in touch if you want to be introduced to Him. leading funeral services because we have been unable to sing, to touch Rev Andrew Sankey and unable to share memories and food. I’ll be sharing in a service on 8 Roundridge Road, Capel St Mary IP9 2UG All Saints’ Day on our circuit website, available 24/7 after 6.30am on [email protected] / 01473 311178 / 07966 187216 November 1. This will include general prayers for families affected by a death in this past year. NOVEMBER AT CAPEL METHODIST In the Apostle’s Creed we use the phrase “the communion of saints”, Live streaming of services every Sunday, 10.15 for 10.30am start meaning both those who have died as Christians and those who are still at www.capelmethodistchurch.org.uk (available 24/7) living on a journey of growing in faith. None of us living are perfect. In Preaching theme: Culture and Faith Intersection his letter, John calls us children of God (1 John 3:1) and in describing the Sunday 1 Simon Scott journey to heaven he says that what we will be has not yet been made Sunday 8 Rev Andrew Sankey known. We do not fully understand the mystery of death, but he gives us a great hint (obvious if we understand human life). Sunday 15 Rev Andrew Sankey Sunday 22 Church Members How often have you heard someone talk of a child, “they’re just like their Sunday 29 Tom Boswell father” or “just like their mother”. Sometimes it’s the shape of the nose, the colour of their hair or a mannerism. Sometimes it’s the character or Online services are also available 24/7 on the Ipswich Circuit website: temperament of parent and child. John says, “what we will be has not www.methodistic.org.uk

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