Volume 11 • Issue No. 5 • MARCH 2021 Your free local community magazine: essential local news, services & information delivered through your door every month ™©

Inwith & RushmereTouchwww.keepingintouchwith.co.uk

‘Click and Collect’ at Kesgrave Market See page 7

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

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

EAST SUFFOLK HOUSEHOLDS ASKED TO FOLLOW BIN RULES Households in East Suffolk are being reminded to follow bin guidelines MORE FUNDING AVAILABLE TO HELP as more household waste is created during national Covid-19 TACKLE SOCIAL ISOLATION restrictions. People are spending more time at home due to national Covid-19 A funding programme which supports people struggling with social isolation restrictions and East Suffolk Council is asking households to ensure and loneliness is now accepting new applications. they are following the bin guidelines set out by the council to help East Suffolk Council’s Hidden Needs Programme was originally launched in refuse teams efficiently provide an essential service. 2018 to support older people and families with limited resources who were Cllr James Mallinder, Cabinet struggling with social isolation and loneliness. In a response to Covid-19, the Member for the Environment, said: scheme was relaunched in June 2020 with a fund of £100,000 and adapted “With more people spending time to help fund projects which supports people of all ages who are particularly at home due to national restrictions, vulnerable during this time. we’re seeing more household waste Following the success of three previous rounds of applications, a fourth round than ever before, putting added has now been opened. Applications are invited from local community groups pressure on our refuse teams. and voluntarily organisations who are delivering projects which can help Unfortunately, we’re also seeing reduce social isolation and loneliness. Grants of up to £10,000 are available an increase in bad bin etiquettes, through the scheme. which can not only prevent the refuse team from collecting waste Cllr Letitia Smith, Cabinet Member for Communities, Leisure and Tourism, but be a nuisance to neighbours said: “The pandemic has caused, and continues to cause, additional challenges and obstruct footpaths. for those who were already struggling with social isolation and loneliness. I “Our refuse teams are working would encourage community groups and voluntary organisations to apply for extremely hard under very difficult this funding which will help support and connect vulnerable people during circumstance, so it is very important this challenging time.” that we all do our bit to help them Applications must be submitted by 16 April 2021. provide this essential service that we’re all relying on more than ever and there are some very simple guidelines we can all follow to do so.” For more information and to apply, please go to: www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/hidden-needs-grant-programme To help ensure an efficient refuse service, East Suffolk Council is asking that households follow a few simple guidelines as set out below: • Put bins out by 6am latest on collection day CENSUS 2021 WILL PROVIDE A • Recycle where possible through the blue bin SNAPSHOT OF MODERN SOCIETY • Present bin at the boundary of your property where your access meets the public highway or other agreed collection point Households across and Wales will soon be asked to take part in • Don’t force too much waste into a bin as it can stick inside, Census 2021. meaning it won’t come out when emptied The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives us the most accurate • Ensure bins do not contain any incorrect items, as it may not estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been be emptied carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941. • Ensure the lid on bins are closed for collections, otherwise we It will be the first run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter won’t be able to empty it with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on • Take bins in as soon as possible after collection as they can cause their computers, phones or tablets. a serious obstructions and block access, particularly when left on “A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities public pavements and access ways can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed,” Visit the council website for more information on what items goes into said Iain Bell, Deputy National Statistician at the Office for National Statistics. what bin, to check your bin collection day and to report a missed bin “This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport collection: routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part and we have made www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/waste/waste-collection-and-disposal/ it easier for people to do so online on any device, with help and paper refuse-collection questionnaires for those that need them.” To read more about East Suffolk Council’s recycling Census Day is March 21 but households across the country will receive letters strategy, the temporary suspension of the bulky waste with online codes allowing them to take part from early March. service and how to book a slot at one of Suffolk’s The census will include questions about your sex, age, work, health, Recycling Centres, please scan this QR code. education, household size and ethnicity. For the first time, there will be a The Suffolk Waste Partnership has produced a new leaflet on what can question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as and cannot be recycled at home as well as tips on how to recycle other well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation items not accepted in the household bins. and gender identity. You can find the leaflet :at www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/recycling Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations. Picture credit Andrew Kahumbu For more information, visit: census.gov.uk 4 In Touch online: www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/kesgrave 5 NEWS

When you are called for your Covid-19 vaccination, you will be asked is for Due to Covid-19, the town council will not be organising the annual town your NHS number. Rather than telephoning your doctor’s surgery, there is a litter pick. However, if you decide to do some litter picking whilst out taking new service you can use to obtain it. You can also use this service on behalf your daily exercise, please feel free to leave any litter collected in bags at the of someone where the name, date of birth and registered home postcode town council office and we will dispose of it for you. is known. You can then opt for the number to be sent to you by text, email Town council meetings are still operating remotely. Please use the enquiry or letter. email if you would like to attend any future meetings. The meetings for The address is: March are: www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/find-nhs-number Mondays 1, 15 & 29 at 6.15pm: Planning & Development Message from your match-funded Police Community Support Officer Monday 1, 7.15pm: Finance & General Purposes I have been trying to get out on foot to engage with the community as much Monday 15, 7.15pm: Full Council as possible. My priorities within the community are looking into anti-social The town council office is currently closed to the public. For enquiries please behaviour, parking concerns and crime prevention, including motor vehicle email [email protected] (emails will be checked during crime and criminal damage. normal working hours) or telephone 01473 625179 and leave a message If you see me when you are out and about, feel free to come and say hello. (messages will be checked periodically). If urgent, telephone 07763 239776. I am always happy to give advice and guidance where I can. However, should If you require the Kesgrave Covid-19 Support Group, please telephone: you wish to report anything to the police, please do this by calling 999 in an 07562 296609 emergency or for anything else please call 101 or use the online reporting tool: www.suffolk.police.uk/contact-us/report-something Not 24 hours but you can leave a message.

The next Kesgrave Market is on Saturday 20 March and we are waiting for the latest government guidelines, due on February 22, to decide whether we can be open, or it will be a ‘Click and Collect’ market. However, whichever way it goes, we are very pleased to offer a new online ‘Click and Collect’ ordering system for your orders. You can now order everything online, with confirmation and payment details sent to you. For further details visit: www.kesgrave.org.uk/market/clickandcollect We can take orders for: Victoria’s Bakery; Local Free Range Eggs and Seasonal Fruit and Veg Boxes from Newbourne Farm; a great selection of fresh, local, quality meat from Cratfield Beef, the Sausage Shop and Cleveleys Foods Ltd (Beef, Pork, Chicken, Lamb and Duck); Apple Juice from High House Fruit Farm and local honey from Willow Farm in Hasketon. If you have any queries or need any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact Mandy, the market co-ordinator, via the link above.

SOUND ON Ipswich & District Talking Newspaper If you are blind, partially sighted or a relative or friend of a person with sight loss, you may be interested to know about us. We are Sound On, Ipswich and District talking newspaper, and each week we record local news items from the Ipswich Star and the East Anglian Daily Times which are then sent to our listeners on memory sticks and made available online and on Alexa. Our service is free and can include a USB player if you need one. We’d love you to join us. If you’d like to know more, please contact our chairperson, Pam Pelling, on 07772 324317 or [email protected] or Tim or Rachel Pennick on 01473 610437 or [email protected].

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8 In Touch online: NEWS

COUNCIL TAX FREEZE TO FURTHER SUPPORT RESIDENTS In response to the challenges faced by local communities during the pandemic, East Suffolk Council is planning to freeze its element of council tax for the coming year. East Suffolk Council’s draft budget for the 2021/22 financial year, which was approved by Cabinet on Tuesday 2 February, will see an overall spend of £129 Quiet Lanes in our Parish million committed to delivering essential services across 57 different service In conjunction with Rushmere St Andrew areas in the coming year. Neighbourhood Plan Working Group, Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council is exploring To provide further financial support to residents during the pandemic, there opportunities to designate certain rural lanes in will be no increase to East Suffolk Council’s element of council tax; with a the parish as Quiet Lanes as part of a county- property in Band D paying £171.27 for 2021/22 (£14.27 per month), which is wide project. the same as in 2020/21. According to responses to the Neighbourhood The council’s budget is made up of contributions from council tax, business Plan questionnaire, 84% of respondents rates and smaller contributions from central government grant schemes. supported the designation of Quiet Lanes in the Council tax contributions will account for £14.95 million of the budget. Less parish. Quiet Lanes are a nationally recognised designation for narrow, rural than 10% of each household’s council tax bill goes to East Suffolk Council, with the remainder going to Suffolk County Council and the Police & Crime roads which are shared by walkers, horse riders, cyclists and other road users. Commissioner. They encourage drivers to ‘Expect and Respect’ more vulnerable road users and so allow non-motorised users to enjoy rural lanes in greater safety. Covid-19 has presented significant additional financial challenges for the council. However, robust reserves have enabled the council to continue These types of lanes do not impose traffic restrictions and are not enforced. to thoroughly support residents, communities and businesses during the Advisory signs (like the one pictured) are placed at either end of Quiet Lanes pandemic whilst remaining financially sustainable. This is a key ambition within to show motorised users clearly that the road is a shared space. the council’s Strategic Plan, ensuring the council provides value for money to residents, delivering the best services possible and being commercially astute We feel that this would be of real benefit to the parish and those who visit. to generate income that can be further invested in services. The lanes being considered are already used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders and link with existing footpaths and bridleways in the village. Cllr Steve Gallant, Leader of East Suffolk Council said: “It is essential that we deliver a balanced budget, year on year, which enables us to continue to In conjunction with Suffolk County Council (Highways), we have identified, provide essential services and support to our residents. Tuddenham Lane, Playford Lane, Lamberts Lane and Seven Cottages Lane. “The pandemic has seen many residents with reduced income and many This article seeks to inform you as the first stage of a full public consultation more with serious concerns about maintaining their financial security. process. Whilst only a small percentage of each household’s council tax bill goes to East Suffolk Council, we hope that freezing our element of this year’s bill will As part of the formal public consultation process, there will be a public provide further support for those in need. meeting (held remotely) on Monday 8 March at 7pm via Zoom to discuss these proposals. For more information on how to join the meeting please “We are an ambitious council and our aspirations, as detailed in our Strategic visit: www.rushmerestandrew.onesuffolk.net/neighbourhood-plan Plan, focus on growing our economy, caring for our environment, supporting the most vulnerable within our communities, and using technology to make If you wish to make any comments about these proposals at this initial services more efficient and easily accessible. Our current financial stability stage, we welcome these in writing either by email to the parish clerk at will enable us to deliver on these ambitions.” [email protected] or by post to Parish Clerk, Rushmere St Cllr Maurice Cook, East Suffolk’s Cabinet Member for Resources said: “We Andrew Parish Council, Tower Hall, 5 Broadlands Way, IP4 5SU by Friday 12 are in a well-balanced financial position for the year ahead, which has been March at 5pm. achieved by using our reserves which are set aside for emergencies, such This project is being funded by the Suffolk County Council Suffolk 2020 Fund as the pandemic. The outlook is uncertain due to the additional financial and the East Suffolk Community Partnerships and Greenprint Forum. challenges of the pandemic however our robust reserve position has enabled us to meet these challenges and at the same time, freeze our element of For more information about this project see the Quiet Lanes Suffolk website: council tax for 2021/22. www.quietlanessuffolk.co.uk “The pandemic has caused financial difficulty for the council but more so for The office is closed but our clerk and assistant clerk are still working so should our residents and we want to ease those difficulties wherever possible.” you need to get in touch please contact them by email in the first instance: As part of the budget setting process, the council is required to agree a Parish Clerk: [email protected] four-year programme of capital expenditure that focuses on the delivery of essential projects and ensures resources are aligned with the council’s Assistant Parish Clerk: [email protected] Strategic Plan. The programme, which was approved at Full Council on Or telephone 01473 711509 and leave a message. Wednesday 27 January, aims to maximise resources by actively seeking external funding and making efficient use of council assets and commercial Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council Office, Tower Hall, 5 Broadlands Way, opportunities. Ipswich IP4 5SU. The council will also look at decreasing its overhead costs by championing Parish council meetings continue to be held virtually. For details, please see major energy-saving projects such as the addition of solar panels to council- the noticeboards or visit: www.rushmerestandrew.onesuffolk.net owned assets and car parks. Thank you to everyone in our parish for your continued patience in doing Earlier this year, residents and businesses were invited to comment on your bit to keep us all safe by following government guidelines. the council’s spending priorities to ensure the 2021/22 budget accurately reflected the needs of local communities. From your Rushmere St Andrew Parish Councillors www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/kesgrave 9 NEWS / OUT & ABOUT

OVER £14M PAID OUT TO PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP NEWS EAST SUFFOLK BUSINESSES For patients of Martlesham Heath and The Birches GP Surgeries At the end of January, East Suffolk Council had paid out over £14 million I am writing this as heavy snow is falling in early February. The good news is to local businesses affected by new national restrictions as it continues to that the Covid-19 vaccination programme has been going very well and we support them during the pandemic. thank all those at The Grove in Felixstowe, including many volunteers, who are working hard to deliver these for our patients. Thank you also to all those Since the new restrictions were introduced on 5 January, council staff have patients who are taking themselves or others to Felixstowe to receive their been working hard to ensure local businesses receive the much-needed vaccinations. financial support they’re entitled to through the government’s business grant scheme. There is a separate booking system inviting patients to visit one of the big vaccination centres now operating in Ipswich and elsewhere. These are not As part of its response to the new restrictions, the council is automatically GP-led, so you may receive an NHS letter from that system as well as an making payments of all business grants to eligible businesses based on a invitation to attend The Grove. It’s up to you which invitation you accept – successful application for the Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG), which not both obviously. has been available since the national lockdown in November 2020, and the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG), which is available to those businesses Martlesham PPG has assisted the Martlesham Heath surgery in purchasing who may fall outside the eligibility of the LRSG scheme. some floor standing social distancing screens for the waiting room. These were kindly funded by Martlesham Parish Council. We are most grateful for This means that businesses who have already successfully applied for the their support. LRSG or ARG do not need to do anything, unless their circumstances have changed since they applied, as they will automatically receive payments of Prue, Chair of Martlesham Heath PPG the grants they’re entitled to. However, businesses that have yet to apply In collaboration with the chair of The Birches PPG are encouraged to do so now as they will not receive the financial support they’re entitled to. Cllr Craig Rivett, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “We know that this continues to be a very challenging time for a lot of our businesses, and we are committed to doing all we can to support them through this. “Our staff continue to work extremely hard to process and pay out the grants as fast as they can, as we know these are a lifeline to many businesses. It is MARTLESHAM HEATH COUNTRY MARKET important to understand that these grants are not loans that will need to be If you’re a fan of cookery shows like The Great British Bake Off, Best Home paid back, and they can make the difference between a business closing or Cook and Chef’s Table, perhaps you enjoy learning to cook or improving your surviving. We want our businesses to come out the other end in the strongest own baking skills? possible position to recover, therefore, I urge all businesses who haven’t yet, to check if they’re eligible for these grants. Even if you’re not sure it is worth Would you like to earn some money from your hobby? Make new friends? checking as we’re not able to make payments to anyone who hasn’t applied Practise your favourite recipes? Start turning your talent into a small through our website.” business? We’d love to hear from you. In total, East Suffolk Council has paid out over £80 million to local businesses Martlesham Heath Country Market is a small and friendly group of bakers, in East Suffolk through the government’s business grant scheme since it was makers and producers that normally operate from Martlesham Heath announced in April 2020. Pavilion. We can’t hold the market in lockdown but we are still baking to order and we deliver afternoon teas, cakes and meals with no delivery charge. More information, including details about how to apply with full eligibility criteria, can be found at: www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/covid-19-business-grant- We need more good cooks to join our team, especially if you can make some funding or all of the following recipes, either every week or once or twice a month: Digital Advice Service • Main meals for 12 or more, with or without a sweet course As part of East Suffolk Council’s commitment to support businesses through • Meat or cheese-based savoury dishes, pies, sausage rolls this difficult time, the council has also launched a free-to-use Digital Advice • Loaf cakes, tray bakes, small cupcakes and similar treats Service which offers small businesses, especially those in the retail, leisure and Popular main courses are £5 per person and they include: hospitality sectors, with an opportunity to get digital advice and diagnostics. • Spaghetti Bolognese and Lasagne The service offers extensive digital business support, a personalised session • Roast chicken/pork/beef with three vegetables with a business growth coach, access to digital growth workshops and • Beef and ale casserole with winter vegetables group coaching sessions, as well as signposting to other forms of support • Fish pie, potatoes and peas including a small grant scheme to fund digital changes within a business. • Liver and bacon with gravy and vegetables East Suffolk businesses are urged to sign up for the service by emailing: [email protected] If you would like to find out more about joining our friendly group, please call Margaret Gayfer on 01473 623849. For more information on the support and advice available to businesses, go to: https://eastsuffolkmeansbusiness.co.uk/business-support/resources/ You can also find us on Facebook or read our blog at: covid-19 martleshamheathcountrymarket.blogspot.com

10 In Touch online: TOPICS SOUGHT FOR LEGAL ADVICE FILMS

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

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KESGRAVE LIBRARY – MARCH 2021 Kesgrave Library reopened on Tuesday 16 February, offering ourSelect and Collect service by appointment. Select & Collect Hello Spring! This service is open to any age group and has proved very popular. Staff Whilst writing this article and looking out of the window, I am certainly glad select a variety of books for customers based on the information given to be working from home and not having to tackle the snow today. Hopefully, about the types of books and authors they like to read. Staff can also when you read this the sun will be shining and the spring flowers will be reserve in any items that are unavailable at Kesgrave. starting to bloom. At least the pandemic can’t stop spring from happening, so The Select & Collect service can be accessed in the following ways. A let us look forward to longer days, sunnier skies and beautiful spring flowers form is available on the Suffolk Libraries website which is submitted to with thoughts of a lovely summer in hot pursuit. Kesgrave Library. Staff will then ring customers to book an appointment Talking of spring, it’s almost a year since we closed our doors for the first to collect their requested items. For customers who would like to lockdown and the start of the pandemic. We have all had to change the contact the library directly, please ring us on 01473 626103 during our way we do things and it’s no different at KWMCC. Throughout the last year, opening hours or email: [email protected] KWMCC has closed when needed but we have also continued to open and provide facilities for bookings that have been able to take place under the Reservation System current guidelines. Customers can place reservations on the Suffolk Libraries website. This is a free service and enables you to order up to 25 items at any time. During this time, our staff have been working remotely or part-time to suit To place a reservation, you will need your long library card number and the needs of the centre. We have continued to make improvements to your pin number. You will also be asked which library you would like the facilities (our hospitality supervisor is a dab hand with a paintbrush!), your items delivered to. You will be notified once they arrive. Please implemented a Covid-19 safe environment for staff and hirers and installed ring or email to book an appointment for collection. new technology to provide a virtual experience for meetings and events. For more information about our latest technology, visit: www.kwmcc.co.uk/ OPENING HOURS new-screen-and-video-conferencing-equipment Monday: Closed We are very pleased to announce the appointment of Fiona Farrell as the Tuesday: 10am-1pm & 2-5pm new Kesgrave Chinwag Coordinator and with the help of the KWMCC team, Wednesday: 2-5pm we hope to host a virtual/online coffee afternoon event on Friday 19 March. Thursday: 2-5pm More information will be available on the KWMCC website and social media. Friday: 10am-1pm & 2-5pm Please follow our new Kesgrave Chinwag Facebook page for updates and Saturday: 10am-1pm information regarding these events. Sunday: Closed If you are interested in attending our chinwag events, please email Facebook [email protected]. If you would like to become one of our chinwag Staff continue to post information and activities on the Kesgrave volunteers when they resume, please email [email protected]. We would love Library Facebook page. Please ‘like’ or ‘follow’ the page for up-to-date to hear from you. information. We would like to thank you for your support in the last year and we look Face Masks forward to seeing you all very soon. In the meantime, the trustees and staff at When arriving to collect your items, staff will place them on a table KWMCC continue to wish you and your families all the very best. in the foyer and open the main doors. It is mandatory to wear a face For further updates please visit: www.kwmcc.co.uk mask that covers the nose and mouth For bookings and enquiries email: [email protected] when collecting items. Thank you for your understanding. We look forward to seeing you all very soon. Thank you for all your support. SPEAK EASY MARTLESHAM Kesgrave Library Manager Maggie Lusher Speak Easy is part of Toastmasters International and offers public 01473 626103 / www.suffolklibraries.co.uk speaking opportunities in a fun and supportive forum. We usually meet at the Richard’s Room in Martlesham but, for now, Zoom is proving to be extremely effective. It also enables us to include guests from further afield, allowing us to be even more inclusive. KESGRAVE & DISTRICT HELP When we can get back to our meeting place, we also hope to offer hybrid meetings with a small group meeting in person linked to a Zoom CENTRE COFFEE MORNINGS call. We look forward to being able to offer the best of both worlds when it is safe and permitted to do so. We had hoped to be able to plan the resumption of coffee mornings by now but Covid-19 has put paid to that! We are disappointed as we expect you are. Meetings take place on alternate Thursdays and we will meet on March 4 and 18 and April 1 from 7/7.15-9.30pm. Hopefully, with the vaccine now becoming more available, we may get back to some sort of normal, even if it has to be different than what we are used If you would like any further information, please contact Adam Green: to. Once we have news that Kesgrave Community Centre can open up to [email protected] some groups, we shall let you know with an added big cheer. www.speak-easy.org.uk / Facebook: Speak Easy Martlesham We look forward to seeing you all again. Best wishes to everyone, Sue W, Jane and Sue S www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/kesgrave 13 OUT & ABOUT

KESGRAVE WI January would usually have seen members enjoying the ‘fun and frolics’ of Bag Beetle, our traditional activity for the first meeting of the New Year. It’s usually a chance for members to catch up with all that has happened over Christmas but, like everything else, lockdown put paid to that. On the bright side, many of our members will now have been vaccinated so we are one step closer to being able to see light at the end of the tunnel and we hope to be able to resume normal meetings later in the year. Members have been keeping themselves busy during lockdown with various activities. Some have caught up on their gardening, card KESGRAVE CO-OP WOMEN’S GUILD making, walking, decorating, reading and jigsaws, with books and Another month of lockdown has gone by and, hopefully, all our members are jigsaws being delivered from one doorstep to another! safe and well. One member who has been knitting baby hats for the hospital had I thought I would try to cheer us with a photo of a lovely day out at the Hut numerous bags of wool arriving at her door within hours of posting a in Felixstowe in 2019. plea for more on social media. Others have been knitting squares to be made up into blankets, also for the hospital. We are always happy to We couldn’t go for our usual fish and chip lunch in July 2020 but July 2 has pass on knitted squares from non-members to a lady who just loves to been booked for this year. Let’s hope we can meet up again by then. We have sew them into the blankets. Contact number below. been lucky with the weather every year so far and there is plenty of time to walk the prom and explore the beautifully restored gardens. For those who have become ‘Zoomers’, there has been a variety of online talks and activities including cookery demonstrations, tours When we do return to normal, we will be welcoming new members who can around prominent gardens and social get-togethers organised by visit for two meetings before joining. The annual membership is £15 and we various county committees. It’s always amazing how we ladies can find charge £3 per meeting to include refreshments and raffle tickets. Meetings so much to chat about isn’t it! start at 7pm in Kesgrave Community Centre. We look forward to the future when we can meet again in our normal Please contact Barbara Rose on 01473 622017 for more information. format and hopefully welcome some new members. http://kesgravecoopwomensguild.onesuffolk.net For information regarding Kesgrave WI please contact Di Chilver on 01473 611415.

DEBEN ROTARY BUSY IN LOCKDOWN We have had three meetings so far in this new year. Four members selected their favorite discs, books and luxury items to take onto a Desert Island as EAST SUFFOLK U3A GOES ONLINE a warm-up after Christmas, followed by excellent presentations by Caroline Page on Jetty Lane and Anita Humphrey on Connected Communities, which is The new year sees a continuation of the difficulties faced by East Suffolk’s managed by Suffolk County Council. U3A groups who are used to meeting face-to-face. We are still very restricted as to what we can physically do in the community Of the 160+ different interest groups, many now meet online and members but we hope to get many of our projects up and running as soon as it is continue to learn about and discuss the arts, history, science, foreign prudent so to do. Hopefully, projects like the Memory Café and summer fetes languages and many other topics. Walking groups have been hit hardest but will be active by the summer. Please follow articles in local magazines, look members have persisted whenever guidance has allowed. out for our posters, visit our website and follow us on Facebook so you know A key – and much-loved – part of U3A’s offering is the regular speaker when we are active again. programme, with talks held at four venues across East Suffolk. They have However, we have been eagerly looking for new projects and distributing been cancelled for the time being and will be reinstated as soon as common the funds already raised. So far, we have donated money to one of our local sense allows. primary schools for the purchase of several computers, to a local playgroup Happily, many talks are available for members to view online. To date, there to fund refurbishment, donated several thesauruses to another local are nearly 30 available on various topics from Lancashire Witches to John primary school, to FIND and Salvation Army food banks and smoke alarms Betjeman! to vulnerable members of our community. Further afield, we have supported United World Schools, Water Aid, Site Savers and Médecins Sans Frontiere. U3A is aimed at older people who want to get as much as possible out of life, even in difficult circumstances. There are no entry qualifications, no barriers To create funds to enable us to support local organisations, we will be holding to joining and lots of activities to get involved in. New members are welcome. another Zoom quiz on Friday 26 March at 7pm and an online cookery and butchery demonstration on Friday 23 April, also at 7pm. If you are interested, please visit the website and make contact with the appropriate group leader to find out how U3A membership can help you keep If you would like to help us with some of our activities, or just join us at one in touch with others, find new interests and friends and learn fresh skills. of our meetings, please visit the message for details and send a message from there. Membership details are available online or call the membership secretary on 0300 123 3913. Richard Boother, President of Deben Rotary www.u3aeastsuffolk.org.uk www.debenrotary.org.uk 14 In Touch online: Life | Land | Business

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In touch 93 x 132_Dec.indd 2 20/12/2020 13:39 OUT & ABOUT / NEWS

CRAFTERS UNLIMITED AT RUSHMERE VILLAGE HALL A big hello to all our members. We hope you are all keeping safe and well through these very strange times. It’s hard to believe a year has gone by and we still are unable to meet. Let’s hope we can all craft together safely Hope after Suicide Loss (HOPE) is a small independent charity that provides again soon. lifelong support following the suicide of a relative, friend or colleague. The If you would like to get in touch, please call Emma on 01787 373850 / charity relies heavily on generous donations to deliver this much needed 07923 356293 or email: [email protected] service but every penny raised is guaranteed to be invested back into the local community. Best wishes to you all from Emma, Irene, Karen and Lyn HOPE was first launched November 2019 and is led by Suzy Clifford who has tirelessly supported individuals bereaved by suicide for ten years. MARTLESHAM LADIES CLUB On 8 June 2009, Suzy discovered her husband’s forlorn body in the family St Valentine’s Day may have come and gone but do you know who St garage, a moment she describes as life changing. Suicide loss is recognised as Valentine was? a psychological trauma but, at the time, the only support available was either time limited or self-financed. Legend has it he was born in 226AD in Terri, Italy. While in prison, he befriended his jailer’s daughter, healing her blindness and sending her a letter Sometimes described as one of Suffolk’s hidden gems, HOPE remains the signed ‘From your Valentine’. Maybe that is where the saying ‘Love is Blind’ only established, peer-led service in the that responds to the comes from and perhaps this started the custom of sending letters and cards trauma of suicide loss by offering free, indefinite support and responding to to those we love. trauma by being available 24/7. Perhaps we can begin to see some light at the end of our Covid-19 tunnel. The Suzy explains: “At HOPE there is no waiting list. We speak the same language days are longer and more springlike and with the wonderful vaccine rollout, and give survivors real hope for the future. Covid-19 has forced the temporary everyday life may start to return to normal. Until we can hold meetings face- closure of face-to-face group meetings but phone support booked on a to-face, we must use all the modern technology we have available to keep in weekly basis and Skype group meetings have proven popular. Our website is touch and stay positive. put together by survivors for survivors. To find out more about our plans and have a chat, contact Doreen Boar on “Suicide recognises no age, social, ethnic or cultural boundaries and neither 01473 622768. does HOPE.” Contact HOPE: 01284 760 97 / 07531 087623 / [email protected] CEDARWOOD PRIMARY SCHOOL www.hopeaftersuicideloss.org.uk We are very proud of our staff, pupils and families this term as they have adapted to new ways of teaching and learning. Our staff have continued to bring the curriculum to life for pupils with live lessons delivered straight from the classroom. The children have wowed us with their hard work and positive attitudes as they have fully embraced learning. From planetariums made using items found around the home, to woodland craft making and den building, learning has continued to be fun and hands-on for pupils of all ages. We can’t wait to welcome them back to celebrate their fantastic achievements.

It’s hard to believe that it’s a year since the first lockdown and sadly we’re still in the same position. Gardens and allotments have been a major source of relaxation and stress relief for so many people during challenging times and hopefully, it will continue to be so this year too. March is the time to dig over your vegetable plot and break up any big clods A message from the Year 5 team to get it ready for planting. Rake the soil to a fine tilth and, if possible, apply a Year 5 at Cedarwood are COSMIC! general fertiliser two weeks before planting. You can plant the following seeds Listening to the news you’d think schools were closed right now but delve direct into the ground now: broad beans, red cabbage, summer cauliflowers, deeper and you’ll see that exciting and creative work is still going on. In fact, kale, spinach, sprouts, onions, leeks, carrots, turnips, peas, radishes, beetroot at Cedarwood Primary School it’s out of this world. Various online platforms and early lettuce. If you sow slightly shorter rows at 10-day intervals you have been used to create engaging live lessons and pupils, parents and staff will have a succession of vegetables to harvest throughout the summer and have worked together to ensure that children were able to continue learning autumn. and working in an exciting and fulfilling way. For pupils in Year 5 this was by written work, joining in nationwide live lessons, watching astronauts on the You can plant out first early seed potatoes, onion and shallot sets, asparagus ISS and having a guest speaker! The whole learning community has risen to crowns and globe artichoke offsets. Protect any young seedlings, such as over the challenge of a new way of teaching and learning. winter broad beans, from slugs and snails and look out and deal with early weed growth. There’s not usually very much to harvest in March as it’s a bit Both from home and at school, pupils have joined together online to read Cosmic of an in-between month but you may have some leeks, sprouting broccoli and enjoy the heart-warming and funny novel, from Frank Cottrell- and kale. Boyce. They have produced a stellar array of amazing work prompted by the book and their growing knowledge of space. At a time when things on Earth Due to increased interest in ‘allotmenting’ caused by Covid-19, we still are uncertain, and carefree days can sometimes seem a thing of the past, don’t have any spare plots so are maintaining a rather long waiting list. Our Year 5 at Cedarwood have looked to the skies and studied membership secretary, Angela Brown, can be contacted on 01473 612283 or the sun, our moon and Earth’s relationship with both. Their at [email protected]. creativity has spanned art, science and English. Sally Peckham Tina Shute, Headteacher www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk/kesgrave 17 SCHOOLS / CHURCH NEWS

BRIGHT STARS KESGRAVE CRICKET CLUB Bright Stars normally run free activity sessions for pre-school aged children New Season – New Hope with their parents, grandparents, friends, family or carers at St Michael’s After what can only be described as a year to forget, we have high hopes that Church Centre, Martlesham Heath on the second and fourth Monday cricket will return in the UK in 2021 and we are already preparing for it. It mornings during term time. They usually involve singing, games, crafts and started in September when the square maintenance took place. Since then, Bible stories. our groundsmen have been working on the square and it is looking good so we can’t wait to get going. However, due to the Covid-19 restrictions, we are unable to meet in person so we’re keeping in touch remotely. We are sending out activity sheets by email After managing to get in a few games and some junior coaching sessions last and/or post for children to enjoy doing at home. We are currently exploring year, we hoped we had seen the worst of the pandemic and were starting to the story of Creation which has included making a hanging sun, moon and think about winter indoor coaching for the juniors in early January. As we all stars as well as having a go at a spot the difference puzzle. know, things quickly changed and, unfortunately, we haven’t been able to run any sessions so far and it is looking unlikely that we will get in any winter If you have or look after a child/children of pre-school age and would like to coaching this year. receive our sheets, please give us a call on the number below. 2020 was successful off the pitch as we managed to install our new electronic If you would like further information, please contact Sonya & Maureen scoreboard and scorers hut and we’re looking forward to using them. Burrows: 01473 625196 We haven’t been able to plan any pre-season indoor net sessions yet but please keep an eye on our website and social media for any updates. Anyone wishing to join us this year, please get in touch. The Two Counties Fixtures have been released for 2021 and our first team is in Division 2 and our second team is in Division 7 and both look forward to playing teams like , Woolpit, Clacton, Frinton and Mildenhall. The fixtures should be loaded to our website soon. Our first home fixture is currently planned to be on Saturday 17 April. Our AGM took place in January over Zoom. The only change in the committee was that Richard Bradley has been replaced by Sam Colver as welfare officer. As always, we welcome sponsors and volunteers who would like to help our club. If you can help our groundsmen, scorers, coaches or management, please contact us through our website. The club will pay for any coaching or training courses attended. Check out the website for fixtures and other details: https://kesgrave.play-cricket.com HEATH PRIMARY SCHOOL The website provides a link to our social media pages. Please like our pages Early Years Outdoor Growing Project and follow us to make sure you receive regular updates from the club. Even though we find ourselves in difficult times, we are very excited at the Please keep safe and positive. See you soon. moment. Having been fortunate to receive funding from SPARK, Kesgrave Town Council’s Community Enabling Fund and The Ropes Trust, we are Dickie Bard developing the outdoor space in our Early Years garden. The first phase of this project was to create a brand-new growing area and with the help of handyman Neil Wickes, we have created eight new raised beds ready for the ‘YOU’RE ON MUTE!’ children to start planting up after half term. This must be one of the most used phrases of the last few months, with so This is only the first of many exciting developments we have planned for the many people using online platforms like Zoom, Google Hangouts or Teams for EYFS garden. Our next projects are to create a brand new ‘mega’ mud kitchen work or to stay connected to family and friends. Boris Johnson’s voice comes and a new imaginary play area based on The Lighthouse Keeper’s Lunch by into my head as he has had to repeat it to journalists during several Downing Ronda and David Armitage. Street briefings! Nursery Places 2021 However, we are so thankful for this technology which makes it possible to Our school Nursery is full at the moment. However, we have started accepting see and hear each other when we can’t be together physically. As a church applications and allocating places for September 2021. family, we have used Zoom in various ways since March 2020, for leaders’ meetings, Life Groups, prayer meetings and, more recently, Sunday services. Our dedicated team of highly skilled and experienced Nursery staff is teacher- It has been a great experience as we can see each other worshiping together, led and will provide your child with the best Early Years provision. We are in real-time, and can interact with comments in the chat and actions and lucky to have indoor and outdoor fantastic facilities, with extensive grounds encouraging gestures on screen. that include a dedicated Forest Schools area and a separate wildlife area An amazing group of talented people have supported in making Zoom featuring a pond with a dipping platform. We are also proud of our school services possible, including someone in charge of the mute button! garden that includes an orchard, allotment and an enclosure for our chickens, ducks and rabbits. As connecting online has been so important for everyone, we have also developed a new website. It carries the vision, message and life of the Fields We hope to offer personal after-school tours to families as soon as possible. family which is founded on a God who is not on mute. A God who came down However, in the meantime, you can visit our fantasti c website where we have as a man and spoke to us as Jesus, who still speaks to us through his Word, a page dedicated to prospective parents. Alternatively, you are welcome to the Bible, and to us as a Church as we meet together. speak to our headteacher, Mr Whatley, to find out more. God is not on mute: he is waiting to talk to you and if we can help you get that All families, including those who don’t live in Kesgrave, are welcome to apply conversation started, please check out our new website where you will find for a place via our school website. A paper copy can be obtained by phoning all the information you need to connect with us and find our services. You can 01473 622806. also email us at: [email protected] www.heathprimary.co.uk www.fieldschurch.uk 18 In Touch online: CHURCH NEWS

BIXLEY FARM CHURCH Snow has descended on Bixley Farm, covering everything in a thick blanket of white and hiding the often harsh, sharp edges and unsightly objects like discarded cans and litter. This calm and beautiful scene can speak tous about the grace of God that is given freely, covering a multitude of griefs and grievances. It also reminds us that under a veneer of respectability and learned behaviour lies many a destructive trait or uncomfortable truth that can emerge unexpectedly and destructively. We read of all the unpleasant things that others do in our newspapers, on TV and social media channels but we do need to face up to our own failures instead of hiding them, a spiritual detox of sorts. How about a spring clean for your life? Visit www.mie.org.uk where there are helpful suggestions for doing so and you will also find many other resources to watch, read or listen to. You can also call the church office on 01473 270978 and speak to someone in confidence. As we are still unable to meet at Tower Hall and other activities are stopped, we are continuing to pray for specific areas each month. In March we will pray for those living in Bladen Drive from Gwendoline Close, towards Broadlands Way, including Clovelly Close, and then Glemham Drive up to and including, Melford Close and Kentwell Close. With more people struggling to make ends meet, our churches have set up a pop-up shop where you can fill a bag of food for £2. Run jointly by MIE, it is open every Wednesday afternoon from 2-3pm. Whilst it is based at St John’s Church on Cauldwell Hall Road, it is for anyone within the parish, including Bixley Farm, who is struggling financially. No questions asked. No referrals required. No shame. If you are in need, please come along and you will get a warm welcome. Please pray along with us for all who are struggling at this difficult time. We are also holding an Auction of Promises on March 13 in support of the Malad family who we focussed on in our last article. They are getting towards their target and hope to start building very shortly. The auction will take place at 7pm on Zoom. Please support by joining and bidding for any of the lots (promises) that are currently being donated (e.g., afternoon tea, a gift voucher for Salon 24 hairdressers). There is sure to be something that you will find appealing. Details can be obtained by emailing Jean Potter at: jep. [email protected] On behalf of the family, we thank all who have given and hope you will help us to raise the final amount. You are very welcome to join us at our two other churches in MIE at 10.30am on Sunday mornings. Please remember your facemask. If you wish to attend a service, join an Alpha group or find out more about the Christian faith please go to www.mie.org.uk, email the office at [email protected] or call 01473 270978. 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/kesgrave 19