Guy McGregor Tel: 01379 668434 Email: guy.mcgregor...

Athelington, Horham & Redlingfield

USEFUL CONTACTSHORHAM & ATHELINGTON PARISH COUNCIL: Angela Wilkins (clerk) Tel: 01379 384625REDLINGFIELD PARISH MEETING (www.redlingfield.suffolk.gov.uk): Janet Norman-Philips

(chair) Tel: 01379 678835 Email: [email protected] MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCIL (www.midsuffolk.gov.uk):

Tel: 01449 724500 Email: [email protected](0845 606 6067 & [email protected])

SUFFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL (www.suffolk.gov.uk):Tel: 0845 606 6067 Email: [email protected]

DISTRICT COUNCILLOR: Elizabeth Gibson-Harries Tel: 01379 384680 Email: [email protected]

COUNTY COUNCILLOR: Guy McGregor Tel: 01379 668434 Email: [email protected]

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT (www.centralsuffolk.co.uk): Dan Poulter Tel: 01728 685148 Email: [email protected] of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

POLICE: (www.onesuffolk.co.uk/SaferSuffolk/MidSuffolkNorth/):Our Community Police Officer is PC Amy Yeldham & our Police CommunitySupport Officer is Steven Long. Tel: 01284 774100 (Eye Police Station). Email: [email protected] emergency calls: Tel: 01473 613500 Crimestoppers Tel: 0800 555 111In an emergency dial 999. You should dial 999 when life is threatened or

people are injured, or if there is a crime in progress or an immediatepolice response is necessary. It is better to be safe than sorry.

OTHER EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS: GAS EMERGENCY: 0800 111 999ELECTRICITY EMERGENCY: 08007 838 838ANGLIAN WATER EMERGENCY: 0800 145 145

REPORTING A PROBLEM: You can report problems relating to: abandoned vehicles; damage tostreet signs & litter bins; dogs; drainage; fly tipping; litter; noise; odour; rat ormice infestations; refuse collection; and smoke, fumes & dust; online using the onesuffolk website (www.onesuffolk.co.uk/reportaproblem). This is apartnership involving the police and councils.

HORHAM NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH: Hav Wilkins Tel: 01379 384625REDLINGFIELD NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH: Chris Gibbons Tel: 01379 678169NHS DIRECT: A 24-hour confidential telephone service. You can ring for nurse advice if you

are feeling ill and unsure about what to do or for health information on particular conditions. Call 0845 4647 or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

DOCTORS: Fressingfield Medical Centre, New Street, Fressingfield, IP21 5PJ – 01379586227 and Stradbroke Medical Centre, Wilby Road, Stradbroke, IP21 5JN –01379 384220 (www.fressingfield-medical-practice.co.uk/). The HealthCentre, Castleton Way, Eye, Suffolk, IP23 7DD – 01379 870689(eyehealthcentre.co.uk/)

Suffolk County Council’s HOUSEHOLD WASTE RECYCLING CENTRE at Brome: Opening times - 1 November to 31 January, 8am to 4pm; 1 February to 31 March, 8am to 5pm; 1 April to 30 September, 8am to 6pm; 1 October to 31 October, 8am to 5pm.

OTHER IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERSSUFFOLK TRADING STANDARDS: 01473 264859 CONSUMER DIRECT: 08454 040506

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FOR A CRACKLING GOOD TASTE

IN SEPTEMBER, A LITLE GIZMOrecorded the speed and number ofvehicles using Mill Road in Redlingfieldand, unsurprisingly, it found there wasa problem with speeding. Although theaverage speed of the 700 or so vehiclesusing the road every day was just over34mph, when you think many wereslowing down to pull into their drives orhad only just pulled out it means thatsome are just going way too fast. Soslow down, the speed guns are coming.FROM OUR FIRST ISSUE OF 2011 we’ll be pulling all the listings of clubs,organisations etc into a once-a-yeardirectory – so if you could check yourgroups’ details and let me know of anychanges by the end of January it will helpus make it as up-to-date as possible. Thedirectory should be distributed with thefirst mag of the New Year. Mike Ager

Winter 2010 1

EDITORIALBRIAN DADE

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IT WASN’T UNTIL I SAT DOWN TOproofread this issue – in an attempt to

minimise the not so deliberate mistakes –that I realised that it should be called theAlan Johnson & 95th Bomb Group themedspecial. Alan provided our piece onHorham station, he features in our articleon Christmas 1943 and, although he’s notmentioned in the story, he was amongthose talking to Fram schoolkids about the95th Bomb Group when they visited theair base museums. The 95th itself not onlyfeatures in the above stories but there seemto be loads of other bits about it. So,welcome to our accidentally themed issue.

■ THERE HAS BEEN SO MUCHgoing on in our villages over thelast few months that on a couple ofoccasions I’ve found myself doubleand even treble booked. But evenwith so many events clashingthey’ve been roaring successesthanks to your support and hardwork organising them all – fromharvest suppers to quizzes andfrom fireworks displays totraditional pub games’ nights. ■ A READER IN DENHAM HASasked for our help in trackingdown the origin of the followingsaying used by his father. Whenthey were about to go somewheremuddy he’d say that’s “where WillStock went”. If you can cast anylight on this I’d appreciate it.■ CONGRATULATIONS TO Katie and Drew Abbott and EyeChurch Shop and Fairtradesuperwoman Sue Watson on thebirth of their baby boys. ■ MANY THANKS TO ALLthose who stopped to help roundup a couple of runaway porkersJanet and I almost ran into on theB1117 a while back. ■ A MERRY CHRISTMAS ANDHappy New Year from all at yourvillage magazine. ■ IF YOU LIKE TO PLAN ahead the Horham Bygones Rallywill be on June 11th and 95thGrand Open Day on May 15th.

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36 Winter 2010

Advertising rates for four issues distributed to more than

250 homes in Athelington,Horham, Redlingfield and

surrounds are:-1/8 page £6.25 (42.5mmdeep, 60mm across)1/6 page £8.50 (60mmdeep, 60mm across)1/3 page £16.50 (60mmdeep, 125mm across)1/4 page £12.50 (90mmdeep, 60mm across)1/2 page £25 (90mm deep,125mm across) A whole page £50

You can supply the artworkor we can design the

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The next issue - Spring 2011 - is due to be published at the end of March. The final deadline for all submissions is February 14.

Printed & published by Evelyn Adey & Mike Ager for Athelington, Horham, Redlingfield and surrounds. The editors reserve the right to edit or refuse

submissions. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those ofthe editors.

● The station buildings from Horham and Laxfield are preserved at MangappsRailway Museum, Southmister Road, Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex(www.mangapps.co.uk/), and the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum atWetheringsett, on the site of the Brockford and Wetheringsett railway station,(www.mslr.org.uk/), is a heritage railway and preservation museum run by adedicated band of volunteers celebrating the ‘Middy’. It operates from April tothe end of September on Sundays and Bank Holidays, with Santa specials inDecember (see what’s on). Most of the open days have a special event toaccompany the running of the steam locomotive.

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FEATURES & NEWS

Winter 2010 35

THE MID-SUFFOLK LIGHTRailway ‘Middy’ was built in1902 – financed by

shareholders and collections frombusinessmen from the villages throughwhich the railway was laid.

It was a single-line track runningfrom Laxfield to Haughley, a distanceof about 201/

2 miles. It was in twosections: Laxfield to Kenton; andKenton to Haughley. It was of astandard gauge, with 10 stations andsidings. The stations were: Laxfield;Wilby; Stradbroke; Horham;Worlingworth; Kenton; Aspall;Brockford; Mendlesham; andHaughley, where it connected with themain line from Norwich to Londonand Cambridge.

The rolling stock consisted of threeengines, two first class and eight thirdclass coaches, with two goods-guardbrake vans. The staff consisted of: fivestation-masters; 11 porters; two enginedrivers; two firemen (engine cleaners);a yard man for unloading coal etc.;four guards (two for each train); atraffic inspector stationed at Laxfield;

and a permanent way inspector atHaughley. There were also five gangsof 15 men in the permanent way staff.

The service was as follows: the upservice to Haughley departed Laxfieldat: 7.25am (it was a passenger train);9am (goods); 11.05am (mixed); and3.25pm (mixed); the down service toLaxfield departed Haughley at:9.10am (mixed); 10.40am (goods);1pm (mixed); and 4.25pm (passenger).

On Tuesday mornings a train leftLaxfield at 3.40am to pick up wagonsof cattle from each station and conveythem to Ipswich for the cattle market.

Up to 1924 it was a well patronisedrailway. There were millers and grainand coal merchants at Laxfield; twograin and coal merchants atStradbroke, E.G. Clarke and Son andS. Skinner and Co; and at Horhamthere were millers, grain, coal andcoke merchants.

The passenger and mixed trainsconveyed passengers, dogs, smallparcels, milk, bicycles and passengers’luggage. Every morning there were:two churns of milk picked up at

When the railway ruledTales of the ‘Middy’ from Horham station master Albert Borrott

2 Winter 2010

Winter 2010 334 Winter 2010

Laxfield; two at Wilby;three at Stradbroke; eightat Horham; four at Aspall;and four at Mendlesham.About 16 scholarstravelled to and fromStowmarket secondaryschool every day. Therewere cheap day ticketsissued on Tuesday forIpswich and on Thursdayto Stowmarket.

I entered the railwayservice on October 16th1916, and served at eachof the stations during thetwo years to November 1918.

I was posted to Horham Station onNovember 11th 1918. It was not longbefore I got to know most people inthe village. I had complete charge ofthe station, being station master, clerk,shunter, porter and signalman. Thesmallest parcel ever recorded as beingreceived was a queen bee. Theordinary return fare to Ipswich was 4s3d to Liverpool Street was 19s 7d.

In the year 1919-1920 Messrs Roe& Sons, erected a grain store and

installed a power mill onland near Horham Stationyard. The firm consistedof F. B. Roe, the father,and three sons.

The private telephonewas not provided for therailway until 1919.

About 1921 roadtransport came into being– passenger coaches,buses, lorries, cattletrucks, and people gettingtheir own cars – so thattraffic began to leave therailways and went onto

the roads. It was about 1917-18 whenthis little branch was taken over by theGreat Eastern Railway. The railwayswere losing money and so instead ofrunning each section as they weredoing, it was decided to make thewhole of the railway system into fourregions, namely: The Great Western;London, Midlands and Scottish;London and North Western; andLondon North Eastern, the latter towhich we were attached.

continued on page 4

Albert Borrott on Horham stationand an East Anglian Daily Times

story about its sale.


continued from page 3This little railway was nearly

doomed on several occasions until1939 when the Second World Warwas declared. In 1940-41 an air basewas built at Horham and the railwayknown as the Mid-Suffolk BranchLine was one of the busiest in theregion, what with building materials,stores, tools, personnel and luggage,bombs etc., coal and coke. Besidesinward traffic there was traffic loadedout: straw; hay; vegetables; sugar-beet;and truck loads of air force stores; andpersonal belongings of airmen who hadbeen killed or wounded. We used toreceive daily 40 wagons in for the airbase and an average of 10 out,including parachutes. Practically all theairmen's clothing, boots etc., came toHorham.

There were three accidents involvingpersons: a woman run over betweenMendlesham and Haughley about1930; a soldier on leave was run overbetween Horham and Stradbroke, not alocal man, he was not killed but had his

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ankle broken; the train was derailed1912 on Laxfield Flower Show Day,no bad casualties.

All the area served by the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway was severelyhit by its closure, and the old enginewhistle is still missed by all who tookinterest in the railway.

However, the cost of maintaining itwas far beyond the receipts, so therewas no other sensible thing to do butclose. Some of the younger men werefound jobs in the railway. The olderones left and found other work.

Many thanks to Alan Johnson forcontributing this article and pictures

and Eddie Coe for the EADT cutting.

FEATURES & NEWS Albert Borrotton Horham

station.

● Albert Borrott was a sergeant in the Home Guard and on one occasion whenhis men were parading by the school in Horham one of them accidentally shotthe church tower. Albert was also landlord of the Denham Green Man. Thestation itself was strafed by German aircraft during WW2. The bullets narrowlymissed children who had just got off the school bus.

■ SPONSORED BIKE RIDE: The churches bike ride on September 11th brought in£1,017.90 to be divided between the Suffolk Historic Churches Trust and HorhamChurch Fabric Fund. Horham’s cyclists were Brian Gue, Abbie & Jakie Hawes, IanHeath, Natasha and Joe Lewer-Davidson, Daphne & Ruth Harvey, Elizabeth & AndySmith, Daniel Streeter, Nicola & Laurie Walpole, Lawrence Weaver and Michael &David Whatling. Redlingfield’s cyclists, Stuart & Jeanette Brierley, Gail & EddieHawes, Madeleine Ellis and Lesley Rose, raised £370. Many thanks to the stewards inthe churches, the cyclists and their generous sponsors.■ STRADBROKE CINEMA: January 20th; February 17th; March 31st; and April 21stwill be the cinema nights at Stradbroke Community Centre in early 2011.

32 Winter 2010 Winter 2010 5

THE HAPPYCircle Clubstarted in May

1982 with more than 20members. Lately, atsome meetings, we havebeen down to fourmembers in attendance.Therefore, after muchdeliberation andsadness, it was decidedto call it a day.

Fund raising for theclub began by the tug-o-war teamputting on some discos. We thencarried on by holding dances, carboots etc. One dance was with RadioNorfolk’s Don Shepherd. Localentertainers included BarryHumphries and Peter Last who alsoplayed for a carol sing-a-long at oneof the Christmas parties. We alsoshared coffee mornings withAthelington church.

As a group we have shared lots ofhappy times; in the early days wewent on coach trips to: WisbechStrawberry and Rose Fair; The GoodOld Days at the Spa Pavilion,Felixstowe; Mangapps Farm Railway

Farewell to Happy Circle

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Happy times at the Happy Circle Club’s 25th birthday in 2007.

FEATURES & NEWS

● There was only a limited response to the questionnaire in the last magazinefor all those in Horham and Athelington asking about replacing the HappyCircle Club. However, the Coffee Caravan will now call at Horham &Athelington Community Centre on Tuesday December 21st from 10am to noonand for those seeking exercise clubs the following are available at WorlingworthVillage Hall: Thursday mornings, 10am to noon, low impact keep fit and coffee(for details contact Val Swallow on 01728 628068) and Thursday evenings, 8pm to 9pm, aerobics – hi-lo impact (for details contact Sarah Foster on 07884 186849). Evelyn Adey

Museum, which has a restoredbuilding from Horham Station; theMississippi River Boat Tour on theNorfolk Broads; and many others. Avariety of hostelries were tried andtested on the way home after each trip!

We’ve had birthday and Christmasparties each year.

Our thanks to all who gave generousdonations and support over the years.At the closing of the accounts we had£195.73 and have donated it toHorham & Athelington CommunityCentre with our special thanks for theirsupport and use of the hall for the past28 years.

Violet Allum & Jenny Chapman

FEATURES & NEWS

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Winter 2010 31

DECEMBER 1943: THEchildren in Horham [and othersurrounding villages] were

often guests of the 95th. Manyphotographs show the children beingentertained at the Christmas parties.

The GIs would give them sweets andmake a fuss over them. The Christmasparties at the base were special andexciting for the children.

The English were operating under

strict food rationing; when the childrenwent to the base, they thought theamount of food put on their platesunbelievable.

They had turkey and dressing anddiscovered ice cream. David Johnsonremembers the mixture of food andwhat he thought at the time was themixing of dessert and the main course.He confused cranberry sauce withjelly. A tree was decorated, someone

dressed up as SantaClaus and Christmascarols were sung.Nearly every family inHorham entertainedAmericans. Milton Fixvisited the Johnsonhousehold often.

David and hisbrother Alan hung outnear 336th plane areaand let slip on oneoccasion that theycouldn’t affordChristmas pudding fordessert. Somehow thisgot back to Milton.

‘Wait and sees’ again for Hal Powers’ memories of Christmas with Horham youngsters ...

6 Winter 2010

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ChristmasLater they were having a meal and

boys said, “What's for dessert” Miltonreplied “Wait and see”. When thedessert duly came, it was amagnificent Christmas pudding. Everafter they called Christmas puddings‘wait and sees’.This brief account of some of herfather's memories was contributed tothe old Horham village magazine byKitt Lumley from Georgia USA (HalPowers’ daughter). Kitt and herhusband Jimmy visited Horham inDecember 1999. Mike Ager

Pictures show youngsters and other locals atthe Horham airbase where there was even

an American Santa Claus. Pictures from the 95th BGHA archives.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS: MotherChristmas says that FatherChristmas will be deliveringagain on Christmas morningin Horham and Athelington.To book a delivery pleasering Mother Christmas on01379 384231. A donation isrequested for the EastAnglian Children's Hospicefor this service. No agerestrictions, young old oranything in between!

Athelington, Horham & Redlingfield News cannot be held responsible for thequality of goods or services advertised in the magazine. This disclaimer is

inserted purely for legal/technical reasons and can in no way be construed asimplying criticism of any supplier of goods or services.

If you would like to receive a large print version of this magazine please contact Mike Ager on 01379 678835 or [email protected]

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FEATURES & NEWS

CHILDREN FROM ROBERTHitcham’s CEVA PrimarySchool in Framlingham

recently spent two days at the 95thBomb Group Heritage Association and95th Bomb Group Hospital Museumgetting a true World War Twoexperience,

Two-hundred youngsters, aged 7 to11 (Key Stage 2), visited the museumsover two days in November and triedon clothing, got to feel the weight of amachine gun, learnt about missions,and the daily life of the air and groundcrews that served at the Horhamairbase.

The 95th Bomb Group HeritageAssociation’s (BGHA) chairmanJames Mutton said: “Everyone workedreally hard and the children went awaybuzzing about the experience. Ourteams’ knowledge and enthusiasmreally rubbed off on the children. Notonly was it great for the kids but we allhad a great time telling them about themen of the 95th and World War Two.”

AT THE 95th BOMB GROUP’Srecent annual reunion in Washington,DC James got to meet up withrelatives of the co-pilot of the B-17remembered in the new memorial inRedlingfield. He met Marcia A Moyer,who has provided Redlingfield and the95th BGHA with a wealth of materialabout 2nd Lt Warren Mansfield Strawnand the crew of B17G-1-BO, 42-31123. Sadly since the reunionMarcia’s father – who managed tomake the trip to Washington – hasdied. Our sympathies go to Marcia andfamily. On Friday November 19th, theanniversary of the crash, villagers andmembers of the 95th BGHA gatheredto commemorate the ten US airmenwho died when the B-17 crashed onthat date in 1943. At 8.30am – the timeof the crash – James laid a wreath anda made short moving speech.

AT THE ANNUAL REUNIONJames also reunited one veteran withhis kit bag, after more than 65 years.

Young get taste of 95th Ray Howlett guides Framlingham school children round the scale model of the air base.

28 Winter 2010

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The late Russell Coe, who lived inRedlingfield with his wife Joan,collected many items from US airmenwhen, as a schoolboy, he did laundryruns for his mother – one of the manylocals to do washing for the USairmen. These items were unearthedafter his death by Velda Lummis, a

close friend of Russell & Joan, whodonated many to the 95th BGHA.Many are now on display in the RedFeather Club Museum and amongthem was a kit bag with the name CarlVoss printed on it. James took the kitbag to Washington DC where it wasreunited with Carl who kindly gavepermission for it to return to Suffolkand the museum, Carl plans to visitHorham with his family soon.

ON WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER17th the Red Feather Club hosted arecord crowd of 110-plus for a filmnight, even running out of chairs.

THE RED FEATHER CLUB Museum is being revamped and thenew look displays will be unveiled atthe Grand Open Day next year onSunday May 15th. Mike Ager

FEATURES & NEWS

Carl Voss, centre, with his kit bag anddaughter Carol Schulz and James Mutton.

■ ACTIVE AT 60 PROJECT: The Active At 60 smart card trial project is testingsmart card technology in rural communities with the aim of increasing participationby older residents. It is using existing bus passes/Mid Suffolk Key Cards to collectinformation about the use of shops, banks, post offices, surgeries, libraries, leisurecentres and social clubs. This will help plan services etc. There is a meeting atHartismere House, Noyes Avenue, Laxfield, IP13 8ED on Friday December 3rd, from10.30am to 1.30pm, with lunch provided, to get feedback about benefits, difficultiesand possible new uses. All bus pass/Key Card holders are welcome. Phone 0845299 6009 if you want to attend or if you need information.■ STRADBROKE & DISTRICT BRANCH RBL: It has been a busy time for the branchwith the annual Poppy Appeal, subscriptions to get in, the grand concert and agm.The concert by South Norfolk Youth Symphonic Band at Stradbroke CommunityCentre was well supported as was the annual general meeting at Laxfield King’sHead (The Low House), branch membership of 86 is maintained and all officers re-elected for another year. Our annual Christmas carols and lunch is at Laxfield VillageHall on Thursday December 9th. Tickets are £17.50 with names to branch secretaryJeremy Higgins (01379 384300) by December 3rd.Christmas greetings and a happy New Year from Michael Burton, branch chairman■ REDLINGFIELD THEFT: Scrap metal and a dishwasher were stolen from a houseon the Knoll in Redlingfield on Thursday November 18th.

Winter 2010 9

Winter 2010 27

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IN THE INTEREST OF fostering debate and because weare governed by a coalition I have

asked Penny Otton for her views oncurrent issues. Penny is leader of theLib Dems on Mid Suffolk DistrictCouncil and a county councillor.

Asked about plans for delivery ofservices she wrote: “So far there areno actual plans for outsourcing, butcouncillors have been through all theservices to decide on those they feelshould be protected, which would bethose that directly effect the mostvulnerable, ie children, frail elderly,people with learning and physicaldisabilities There will be redundancieswhich will be seen as part of thesavings package. Redundancies shouldstart with natural wastage. Someservices which could be moreefficiently dealt with by the privatesector would be considered if that didnot prejudice our most vulnerable. Wecould offer to transfer open spaces andor facilities, for example, to localgroups and town and parish councils.”

She goes on to discuss Mid SuffolkDistrict Council’s amalgamation withneighbouring Babergh, which is basedin Hadleigh: “A merger will result in alarge geographical area therefore we

would suggest at least 3 or 4 local areacommittees based around the markettowns of Stowmarket, Eye, Hadleighand Sudbury. These must have realpower and devolved finances; dealwith local planning, housing,regeneration, traffic management,community safety, set local prioritiesand involve both the town/parish andcounty councils. The area committeeswill encourage involvement by localresidents in key issues affecting theirquality of life.

“The public would be allowed tospeak at committee meetings whichwould be held at times that enablemore people to become councillors i.e.those working, younger people, thosewith family responsibilities.

“The committees would givecommunity leadership and influencethe activities of agencies that directlyor indirectly affect local people.Scrutiny committees would take placearound the district, particularly if therewas a specific local issue.

“Each committee could be allocateda sum of money to spend in their areawithin guidelines set by thecouncil.The council would support orretain those services that directlyaffect the most vulnerable in our area.

It would continue tosupport those organisationsthat assist the council inachieving its aims andthose that complimentthem, such as CitizensAdvice Bureaux.”

Evelyn Adey

Big changes at council

■ SONGS OF PRAISE: Redlingfield Songs of Praiseon Sunday November 21st was a great successthanks to the benefice choir, all the villagers whowere at St Andrew’s Church and all the helpers.■ COFFEE SUCCESS: The coffee morning on August28th raised £207.05 for Horham Church. Thanks goto all those who contributed to this successful event.

10 Winter 2010

FEATURES & NEWS


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FEATURES & NEWS

HUNDREDS FLOCKEDto Redlingfield onSaturday August 21st for

a day-long music festival tocelebrate the life of Laura Baxter.The bands played for free at the“Looeyfest” at Rookery Farm inmemory of Laura “Looey” Baxterwho died suddenly in August2009 aged just 27. Laura died of amassive blood clot (pulmonaryembolism) and the event raised£3,000 for Lifeblood: TheThrombosis Charity, which aimsto increase awareness ofthrombosis and raise researchfunds.

Laura really loved music so Laura’sbrother Jon decided a music day –“Looeyfest” – would be a fittingtribute and celebration of her life aswell as a way to raise money for anoften overlooked charity.

In an emotional event, Laura’sfriends, family and locals, both youngand old, joined together to listen toevery kind of music from the acousticsinger songwriters Carly and Rosie tothe hard rock of Stratosfire and punkband The Dying Breeds.

Tribute bands ZZ Topless and HighVoltage provided some metal, whileGwyn Thomas offered a taste of folk,UB42 brought the reggae of UB40 toSuffolk and Skelvis provided someElvis with a touch of Ska. The eventwas topped off by Ska’d For Life’senergetic ska and they ended the

evening with an emotional “AMessage To You Looey”. Many camefrom London for the weekend,camping at Rookery farm and as wellas music there was a bouncy castle,hog roast, fish ‘n’ chip van, burger bar,coffees and a Lifeblood stall.

Many thanks to all involvedespecially Herbert and Pauline Abbottfor the use of their farm, and Katie andAndrew Abbott for helping Jon toorganise the event – also JimmyTucker (Laura’s uncle) and RichardSimonds (Laura’s cousin) forproviding all the electric on the day.Also, a huge thanks to Simon the DJ,Mark the sound man, and JanetNorman-Philips for her help leadingup to the event.

Peggy, Fred & Jon Baxter & family(Laura’s Mum, Dad & Brother)

Fest to remember Laura

The Dying Breeds at Looeyfest in Redlingfield.

■ REMEMBER THAT PUBLIC HOLIDAYS MEAN RUBBISH COLLECTIONS WILL BE A DAY LATER THAN USUAL ■


CHURCHES & NEWS

CHURCH OF ENGLAND: ALL SAINTS, Stradbroke, Church St; ST ANDREW, REDLINGFIELD, ChurchRoad; ST PETER, ATHELINGTON; ST MARY, HORHAM, The Street. Rev David Streeter, TheRectory, Doctors Lane, Stradbroke, IP21 5HU, Tel: 01379 384869. Email:[email protected]. Website: info on church services is available atwww.onesuffolk.co.uk/RedlingfieldPC/Church/SERVICES (Holy Communion unless stated. Check times on church/village notice board):November 28: Athelington Advent Carol Service 4.30pm.December 5: Horham Benefice HC 11.15am.

12: Horham 9am, Stradbroke Family Gift Service 10am, Athelington 10am.9: Horham Carol Service 4.30pm.20: Redlingfield Carol Service 7pm.24: Stradbroke Christmas Tree 6pm, Communion 11.30pm.25: Horham 9am, Redlingfield 10am.26: Stradbroke, 9am.

January 2: Stradbroke 10am, Horham Epiphany Gift Service 11.15am.9: Redlingfield Benefice Communion 10am.16: Horham 9am, Athelington 10am.23: Redlingfield Morning Prayer 10am, Horham Morning Prayer 11.15am.30: Horham 9am, Stradbroke Parish Communion 10am.

February 6: Stradbroke Benefice Communion 10am.13: Horham 9am, Athelington 10am.Horham 9am, Redlingfield 10am.

27: Redlingfield Morning Prayer 10am, Horham Morning Prayer 11.15am.MOST HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH, High Road, Diss. Parish Priest - Father Simon

Blakesley, Diocesan Tribunal Office, 21 Upgate, Poringland, Norwich, NR14 7SH. 07946390060, [email protected] Web: http://holytrinitydiss.tripod.com (no www.).SUNDAY MASS: 9.30am (sung); 10.30am at Quidenham (sung); 11.30am; 6pm. Holy Days:8am at Quidenham; 10am; 8pm. WEEKDAY MASS: Mon 10am; Tues 8am; Wed 10am; Fri10am; Sat 10am. Morning Prayer 20 minutes before Mass on weekdays. SATURDAYS:Rosary prayed 9.40am. Confessions 10.30am -10.45am or at call.

EYE CHURCH SHOP: usually open Monday & Wednesday 11am-1pm and Fridays 11am-3pm.

FEATURES & NEWS

POETRY CORNERYOU STILL REMEMBER MEYou still remember me 92 & 65 years after two wars that cost the world dear,I am still remembered to some, a name that some may know and others wonder,I once was young with dreams & passions and a life I'd like to share,A much loved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, husband, lover, parentI was all of these – someone for whom the party was never dull, the life & soul,A strong shoulder to lean on – the friend who never let you down,To some I'm an old faded photograph and smile on a child who I shall never know,Someone else will say “do you remember old so & so who did this” & ponder what

could have been,A life to change the world or touched so many – a life that may have been,Now I am a name in stone that's never grey or dirty, carved with pride & dignity,Some days I am remembered with honour and pride,A life I should have lived but yet you still remember me. Manday Miller

TREE WARDENS FROM THEsouth-east celebrated 20 yearsof the scheme with a forum in

Horham. The event was part of anongoing partnership between DavidMitchell, who owns RedlingfieldWood, New Reeding Woods Groupand the Red Feather Club.

Redlingfield Wood normally has nopublic access but for events such asthis Mr Mitchell hosts tours anddemonstrations. There were also talkson East Anglia’s heritage of orchardsand the value of countryside hedges.

The forum marked the work of treewardens since the scheme wasintroduced by the Tree Council in

1990 and looked forward to the issuesand challenges of the next 20 years.

Demonstrations on the day atRedlingfield Wood included treefelling and extraction by horse, awoodworking demonstration and aguided walk around the wood.

David Mitchell, who is tree &landscape officer at Mid SuffolkDistrict Council, said: “With the onsetof climate change, altered socialpriorities and the retreat from fossilfuels, local woodland and theproducts it can deliver – is poised tore-enter the cultural mainstream aftercenturies of neglect ... just ask thewood-burner manufacturers!”

Tree wardens meet up

Traditionalmethods ondisplay atRedlingfieldWood.

■ NEW REEDING WOODS GROUP: National Tree Planting Week runs untilDecember 5th and there will be a tree planting event at Pound Lane Wood. This timethe tree planters will be the pupils from St Edmund’s Primary School and they will beplanting trees donated by Sainsbury’s Active Kids Resources. These include manythat will, as they mature, add spring colour to the woodland and provide winter fruitand berries for wildlife. The woodland at Pound Lane continues to flourish as theoaks are finally showing their crowns above the long grasses. They are, at themoment, dwarfed by the self-set ash some of which are now more than six feet tall.However the most impressive display comes from the dog roses and dogwoods,which are covered with red hips and berries. Is this a sign of a hard winter to comeor a good spring past, only time will tell! Take a walk in this community woodlandalong the Redlingfield Road in Horham and if you would like to be involved in itsmaintenance or become a “Friend” then contact Mike Reeves on 01379 668179.

TO SAVE MONEY AND COPEwith the Government’sswingeing cuts Mid Suffolk

and Babergh District Councils aremerging their services under one set ofmanagers and chief executive, savingaround £1 million a year.

However, they are now proposing afull merger so both councils wouldcease to exist and a new, largerCouncil would be born, saving afurther £356,000 each year. Theexisting 83 councillors would bereplaced by around 55 councillors.

Next May we will all be asked tovote on whether we agree with thesechanges and if the majority say ‘yes’then the new Council will be created.

Before that happens, we should startthinking about the advantages,

disadvantages and how it’s organisedso we can all have our say about theservices we get and what happens inour neck of the woods.

Advantages: Officers andpoliticians will be aligned; it gets ridof the Mid Suffolk LocalDevelopment Framework, which haslabelled most of the Mid Suffolk as“unsustainable open countryside” andis preventing job creation and low-costhousing developments people want.

Disadvantages: Councillors havemuch bigger patches to look after;services will still be split between theCounty Council and the District.

Having our say: There will be over200 parishes in the new Council.

Options include: having clusters ofParish Councils meeting together or

having four forums basedaround Eye, Stowmarket,Hadleigh and Sudbury, withthe power to make decisionsand determine matters such asplanning applications. Intheory no decision has beentaken yet, though CouncillorPenny Otton’s piece on page10 seems to suggest this isotherwise.

I can’t help but worry thathaving just four town-basedforums will mean that ruralareas will ignored. Whichwhen you consider that themajority of people in our patchlive in rural areas not in towns,doesn’t seem very fair.

Janet Norman-Philips


FARMERS MARKETS, ADVICE, INFORMATION & CHURCHES

FARMERS’ MARKETS ETC: STOWMARKET, Marketplace, first Fri of the month, 9.30am-1pm. RICKINGHALL VILLAGE HALL, second Sat of the month, 9am-1pm. STRADBROKE BUSINESS & ENTERPRISE COLLEGE, first Sat of the month, term time only, 9am-1pm. DISS, Marketplace, second Sat of the month, 9am-1pm. THORNDON, first Sun of the month 10am-4pm,Thorndon Tea Rooms, Kerrison Conference Centre. EYE COUNTRY MARKET: The Town HallWed, 10am-11am.

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAUX: Web: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ and www.adviceguide.org.ukDISS, THETFORD & DISTRICT CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU:DISS: Shelfanger Road, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4EH Tel: 01379 651333 (Diss); 01842 764860- welfare rights and money advice Thetford. Fax: 01379 640530 & 01842 750986. Email:[email protected] Open: 10am-3pm Mon (drop in & telephone advice);10am-3pm Tues (telephone advice only); 10am-3pm Wed (drop in & telephone advice) &4pm-6pm (appointments & telephone advice); 10am-3pm Thurs & Fri (drop in & phoneadvice). Other Services at Diss: Lunchtime Tues local solicitors - by appointment only.By appointment Independent Financial Adviser.HARLESTON: Information Centre, 8 Exchange Street. Open: 10am-noon Wed & Fri.EYE: Customer Services Direct, Cross Street. Open: 10am-noon Thurs. MID-SUFFOLK CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU: STOWMARKET: 5 Milton Road South, Stowmarket,Suffolk, IP14 1EZ. Tel: 01449 676060 & 01449 676280. Fax: 01449 675634 - ring beforefaxing. Open: 9.30am-3.30pm Mon; 9.30am-3.30pm Tues; 9.30am-3.30pm Wed fortelephone advice only; 9.30am-6.30pm Thurs; 9.30am-12.30pm Fri.

INFORMATION CENTRES: EYE SERVICE CENTRE: 6 Cross Street, Eye, IP23 7AB. Open: Mon-Fri,9am-5pm. A partnership between Suffolk County Council and Mid Suffolk DistrictCouncil. HARLESTON COMMUNITY INFORMATION CENTRE: 8 Exchange Street, Harleston. Open: Mon-Fri, 9.30am-3.30pm; Sat, 10am-1pm. Offers information covering this area.

OCCOLD BAPTIST CHURCH, The Street, Occold. Church Secretary: Paul Harvey (01379678764) [email protected] Friends & Neighbours: Pauline Harvey (01379678764).SUNDAYS: Services are at 10.45am and 6pm. The evening service is followed by refreshments and a chat. Every first Sun after the evening service at 7pm there issupper and you are very welcome to join us. THURSDAYS: Bible study with opportunity fordiscussion at 7.30pm. On the last Thurs of each month Occold Baptists join with DissBaptist Church, Denmark Hill, Diss, at 7:30pm. Second Thurs at Rishangles BaptistChurch at 7.30pm. WEDNESDAYS: Friends & Neighbours - for ladies, second Wed of eachmonth at 7.30pm. A guest demonstrates a craft or speaks about their work or travels.

HORHAM BAPTIST CHURCH, Chapel Lane. Secretary, John Ladbrook, Potash Farm, FingalStreet, Worlingworth, IP13 7PD. Tel: 01728 628670. Web: www.horhambaptistchurch.orgMAIN MEETINGS: Sunday: 10.45am - morning worship and Sunday school, family servicesecond Sunday in month, communion quarterly. 2pm - afternoon worship, communionfirst Sunday in month. FOR UNDER 18S: crèche (0-3); Sunday school (3-15); Megamix (5-11); Horhamania (11-16+); Brownies; Holiday Club (3-11); Familytime (all ages); youthhouse groups. LOCAL OUTREACH & COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Horhamania (11-16+); Brownies;Holiday Club (3-11); parents & toddlers; Female Focus; seniors’ meals.

GROVE EVANGELICAL CHURCH: Occold Village Hall, [email protected] SERVICES: 10:45am inc Sunday School & 3pm. MONDAYS: Ladies Evening -informalBible study and activities 7.30pm. GROVE YOUTH CLUB: Alternate Fridays 9-11 years 7.30-9pm & 12 plus 9-10pm.

BIG DENHAM DAY: the Vintage FarmMachinery & Working Day at the 95th BombGroup Hospital Museum raised cash for theHelp For Heroes charity. There were staticdisplays of vehicles and demonstrations ofploughing. Pictured is Robbie the horse andhis owner David Hardiman from Bunwell whowere among the attractions. Pic by Don Moyes.

FEATURES & NEWS

Rural areas need a voice


GROUPS, CLUBS, VOLUNTEERING

AGE CONCERN - REDLINGFIELD REPRESENTATIVE: Jacqueline Love, Western Barn, AbbottsMeadow, Redlingfield. 01379 678805, [email protected] Age Concern websitewww.ageconcern.org.uk/

SUFFOLK ANIMAL RESCUE: 5 Cherry Tree Lane, Debenham, Suffolk, IP14 6QT. Has rescuedcats, dogs, rabbits and other small animals seeking new homes. 01728 860937,[email protected] Website www.suffolkanimalrescue.org

SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY - STRADBROKE & EYE GROUP: Stradbroke Community Centreon 4th Tues of the month at 7.30pm (entry £2). 01728 860551, www.suffolkfhs.co.uk

THE VALLEY FENS GROUP OF THE SUFFOLK WILDLIFE TRUST: Regular meetings on last Tuesday ofSeptember, October, November, January, February, March & April at Redgrave & LophamFen Visitor centre at 7.30pm. Meetings usually take the form of an illustrated talk. Thereis a charge of £2 which includes refreshments. In May, June & July there are guidedwalks in various locations. .Website: www.suffolkwildlife.co.uk/ Suffolk Wildlife Trust.

HOXON HUNDRED: Morris dancers and musicians practice on Wednesdays through autumnand winter at St Edmund’s Hall, Hoxne at 7.30pm. Ron Ross, 01379 643563,[email protected] Web: www.hoxonhundred.co.uk

DENHAM VILLAGE HALL: Charges for hiring the hall range from £35 for all-day hires by non-residents to £7 for residents’ children’s parties. Electricity, which includes most of theheating, is extra, paid by a 50p and £1 slot meter in the kitchen. Bookings can be madewith Tina Chenery (01379 870797). Hall management committee chairman: Mr D.Reynolds (01379 668797); secretary: Rose McMahon (01379 870346).

FRAMLINGHAM BRIDGE CLUB: Meets at the Conservative Club Mon at 7 pm to play duplicatebridge. All players welcome - single players get a game. Improvers Class on Wed 1-4 pm.

OCCOLD PRESCHOOL: For children from 2½ to 5 years. Sessions Mon-Fri, including a lunchclub. Linda Jay at Occold Pre School, Occold Village Hall, Occold, Eye, Suffolk, IP23 7PL,07790 605219, [email protected]

JUNGLE CUBS AND JUNGLE GIANTS: For children 1 to 11 years at The Gymnasium, Kerrison,Thorndon. Includes out of school and holiday clubs. Open Mon-Fri, 7.30am-6pm.Whitney McMaster or Louise Austin 07834 483893.

EYE YOUTH CLUB: For 13-18 year olds on Tues and Wed 7.30-9pm at the Eye Youth Centreopposite the Church. Jonathan Pooley, 01379 870173 or 01379 870928.

FIRST EYE GUIDES: For girls aged 10 upwards. Eye Primary School on Tues 7-8.30pm. WendySpencer, 01379871125, or Sue White, 01379 870036.

1ST EYE SCOUT GROUP (INCORPORATING BEAVERS, CUBS & SCOUTS): All groups meet at theScout Hut, Wellington Road, Eye. Group Scout Leader is Tim Passmore 07970 544362 orcontact Joan Norman, 01379 890432 or [email protected]: For 6 to 8 year olds - boys and girls. Wed 5.30-7pm. Karen Ruth, 01379 873544.CUBS: For 8 to 10½ year olds. Fri 6-7.30pm. Sue Wood, 01379 669233.SCOUTS: For 10½ to 14 year olds. Tues 7.30-9pm. Kate Broad, 01449 673472.

VOLUNTEER CENTRE MID-SUFFOLK: There are usually up to 550 volunteering opportunities onoffer within 200 voluntary organisations in Mid Suffolk. These include driving communityvehicles, visiting and befriending and getting involved in community projects. The Centreat 5 Poplar Hill, Stowmarket, IP14 2AS, is open Mon to Fri 9am-2pm. Tel: 01449 612486.Email: [email protected] Web www.do-it.org.uk or www.optua.org.uk

EYE & DISTRICT VOLUNTEER CENTRE: You can get practical help or volunteer at 20 BroadStreet, Eye, IP23 7AF. Open: Mon 10.30am-12.30pm & 1.30pm-3.30pm; Wed 10.30am-12.30pm; Fri 10.30am-3.30pm. Tel: 01379 871200.

COLUMNS

IT HAS BEEN A BUSY FEW MONTHSfor me both locally, and in Parliament. I was successful in my campaign toreopen our much loved HartismereHospital, which will shortly undergo a

£1.5 million refurbishment, funded by the PCT. Asan NHS Doctor, I recognise the importance ofHartismere in providing crucial communityhospital services in rural Suffolk. But thecampaign for Hartismere Hospital does not endhere. We have been let down by the PCT in thepast, and we must ensure that this valuablecommunity facility is reopened with beds for localpeople. Ensuring that a fully functioning hospitalis reopened at Eye is my top priority.

Recently, I paid a visit to Paddock House in Eye,which also houses ten community care beds forpatients to rehabilitate after long stays in hospital.Paddock House is an excellent facility with aholistic approach to healthcare, looking aftervulnerable older patients with complex healthcareneeds. At the moment, the County Council isconsidering its residential care strategy, and wemust ensure that Paddock House remains open.

In Parliament, I have been raising the issuesthat matter to our area: promoting vocational andapprenticeship schemes in the agricultural sector,improving provision of community midwiferyservices in rural areas; and raising the issue ofunacceptably high public sector managerial pay.

I am also very aware that many older peoplestruggle with the costs of heating their homes overwinter, and I would like to see Parliament take amore active role in regulating gas and otherenergy suppliers who arbitrarily put up theirprices. It is the old and vulnerable who are mostaffected and I find that unacceptable.

If anyone would like to talk to me about localissues or has a problem they think I can help with,please contact my constituency office on 01728685148. In the meantime, although it seems a bitpremature, have a Merry Christmas and a HappyNew Year! Dr Dan Poulter, MP

YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

THERE IS MUCH talk of change in theair. The Governmentwants us to do more“locally” while the

District Councils are facingsevere cut backs in bothGovernment funding andgeneral income. It is a verytaxing time.

Mid Suffolk is preparing forthe proposed merger withBabergh with the result that wewill be saving money by sharingofficers and services to enableus to deliver as many of theservices you have come toexpect more efficiently. Thereare going to be losers I amafraid, but I am working hard torepresent the very rural heart ofthe ward, where we needtransport, travelling medicalservices and most of all our postoffices and shops. There areinventive ways in which we canwork together to bid for fundingwhere we identify a need.Horham and Athelington andRedlingfield already work welltogether as a community, weneed to preserve the best wehave and create more chancesfor every age group.

With Christmas just round thecorner I am hoping for a betterwinter than the last one. Pleaselet me know if there are peopleyou know who are alone andwould like a call. HappyChristmas from Rose Cottage

Elizabeth Gibson-Harries, District Councillor – Hoxne Ward

YOUR DISTRICT COUNCILLOR

HELLO EVERYONE, MY NAME ISPC Amy Yeldham and as ofSeptember 22nd I joined the MidSuffolk North Safer Neighbour-hood Team (SNT) at Eye Police

Station. I have been in the Police Service forthe past seven years and I will be workingwith PC Tim Green and PCSO Steven Long.

Those who use heating oil are probablyprepared for winter with a full tank. Heatingoil theft is still a concern in Mid Suffolk sohere is some crime prevention advice to helpyou. You should: screen your tank withhedges and fences; close and secure gates ifyou have them; conceal any external pipework; install dusk-to-dawn lighting; regularlycheck fuel levels; consider installing a tankalarm/security device (consult your tanksupplier); install lockable caps supported bya closed shackle padlock (consult your tanksupplier); join your Neighbourhood Watchscheme, and keep an eye out and call thePolice should you see any suspiciouspersons or vehicles (vehicle registrations anddescriptions of the people are valuable to thePolice.)

With the build-up to Christmas starting,unfortunately we see a crime trend at thistime of year with thefts from outbuildings. Solet’s get in quick and double check oursecurity. Here is some advice to helpminimise becoming a target: install externallighting with dusk to dawn automaticsensors; fit a strong hasp and staple securedto the door and frame with coach bolts,reinforced on the inside with washers, use agood quality shackle padlock; fit internalbars and/or net curtains can obscure theview through windows; keep doors andwindows locked; and security mark valuableitems (ask the SNT about this).

PC 1330 Amy Yeldham, Mid Suffolk North SNT (01473 613 500)

YOUR LOCAL POLICE


GROUPS & CLUBS ETC

HORHAM & ATHELINGTON COMMUNITY COUNCIL (opposite the church): Membership £10 for afamily living at one address, (2 adults and children up to 16 years), £5 for a single adult,£3 for a junior 16/18 years (age must be proven). Membership fees run from Jan 1-Dec31. Membership forms are available from the bar staff, or Angela Wilkins on 01379384625. Community Centre club nights and opening hours: Wed, Fri, and Sat, 8pm-11pm(admission may be restricted when a private function is being held). Further informationon membership or events from Angela Wilkins. Hall bookings via Karen Alderton on01379 384754. Chairman - Margaret Streeter, The Rectory, Doctors Lane, Stradbroke,01379 384363. Personal Licence Holder - Rod Tyrrell, 01379 388285.

HORHAM OLD SCHOOL & SOCIAL CLUB (next to church): Membership £5 per year, and the Clubis open from 8pm till late on Tues and Fri. Chairman - Keith Hawes, Meadow Farm,Athelington, Eye, 01728 628608. Secretary - Margaret Streeter, The Rectory, DoctorsLane, Stradbroke. Hall Bookings via Pip Florance, 01379 384370, Laburnum Cottage,The Street, Horham. Personal License Holder - Keith Hawes.

REDLINGFIELD & OCCOLD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE: Meetings in Occold on the first Wed of everymonth except January when they are on the second Wed. President Caroline Miller,01379 678871. Information on meetings on What’s On pages of this magazine and atwww.onesuffolk.co.uk/RedlingfieldPC/WomensInstitiute/

NEW REEDING WOODS GROUP, POUND LANE WOOD, Redlingfield Road, Horham: Join a workingparty, or become a “Friend” by calling Mike Reeves on 01379 668179. This is communitywoodland, held in trust for all the villagers of Denham, Horham and Athelington.

95TH BOMB GROUP HERITAGE ASSOCIATION/RED FEATHER CLUB: Horham Airfield, IP21 5DG (seewhat’s on for open days & events). Annual membership £8. Frank Sherman, 01379678471 Email: [email protected] Web: www.95thbg-horham.com

95TH BOMB GROUP HOSPITAL MUSEUM, Shingle Hill, Denham, IP21 5EU (see what’s on for open days & events). Tel: 01379 870514. Email: [email protected] Web: www.hexpek.co.uk/95thbghm/index.htm

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - STRADBROKE AND DISTRICT BRANCH: The branch meet at The King’sHead, Laxfield (Low House), starting 11.30am on the first Thurs of the month for ameeting with speaker and lunch. Hon Sec Jeremy Higgins, 01379 384300. The branchare happy to welcome new members and to provide welfare support where appropriate.

EYE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WOMEN’S SECTION: The branch meet at Tacon Close CommunityRoom in Eye for social events, with guest speakers and to raise funds on the thirdMonday in Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct and Dec at 7.15pm. All women welcome. TheSecretary, Mrs C Elliott, 01379 644981.

ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION - DISS AND DISTRICT RAFA BRANCH (covers this area): Meetingssecond Monday of each month at Diss Town Football Club, Brewers Green Lane. Detailsfrom Brian Ager secretary 01379 640337 (email [email protected]). Website:www.onesuffolk.co.uk/DissandDistrictRAFA.

THE EYE GRAMMAR SCHOOL FUND: This trust fund provides grants to young people andeducational organisations serving those under 25 who live in Eye, Athelington, Bedfieldand Horham. Special grants are available to cover expenses not met by the localeducation authority. For application form write to: Mrs L Bernard, Clerk to the EyeGrammar School Fund, 2 Lowgate Street, Eye, Suffolk, IP23 7AS, or 01379 870787.


COLUMNS

AS YOU READ THIS IT IS likely the issue of SuffolkCounty Council’s Care Homein Eye, Paddock House, will bea matter of public discussion.

Suffolk County Council owns about 14homes across Suffolk with just over 500residents for whom we provide good/excellent care. Our employees carry outtheir duties to a high professionalstandard with lashings of TLC.

So why is the future of Paddock Housebeing questioned? In the past if localauthorities did not make provision forthe elderly then there was no otherinstitution that did. So places such asPaddock House were provided. Buttimes have changed. Private firms nowprovide more than 90% of care homeplaces in Suffolk. In these homes aresome residents whose fees are in partor in whole paid for by the county. Withthe increased inspection of care homesthe standards are equal and, in somecases, better than SCC care homes.

On average for every £1,000 spent onSuffolk County Council provision theprivate sector will cost £700. In abudget of £14 million you canappreciate how much money can besaved and used to provide a service toenable the elderly to remain in theirown homes or provide a place in aprivate care home. Suffolk CountyCouncil is consulting on the future of itscare homes. If you have any concerns orcomments please send them in toEndeavour House, Russell Road,Ipswich. We want to do the best for thepeople of Suffolk and we will ensure theneeds of the vulnerable are notoverlooked. Guy McGregor, County

Councillor – Hoxne & Eye Division

YOUR COUNTY COUNCILLOR


WHAT’S ON

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1Redlingfield Coffee Morning: David andJacqueline's Western Barn, 1 AbbottsMeadow, 10am-noon. Free raffle, sherry &mince pies. The mobile information vehicleknown as 'Chai' will be in attendance.Redlingfield & Occold WI: Christmas athome Mary Ann Bartlett, 7.45pm, OccoldVillage Hall.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2An Evening with Tony Penrose: WingfieldBarns, 6.30pm. The son of Lee Miller andRoland Penrose relates tales of childhoodencounters with artists including PabloPicasso. £10 adults, £5 children. 01379384505, [email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3Redlingfield Ladies Christmas Lunch:Thorndon Black Horse, 12.30pm start.Contact Linda (01379 678984) to book orfor transport. Christmas Craft Fayre: Occold PrimarySchool, 6.30pm.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4Christmas Bazaar: Hoxne Village Hall.Christmas Market: Debenham High School.Christmas Workshop – Wreath Making:Redgrave & Lopham Fen. Make a wreath ortable decoration in an hour. 10am-4pm in 1hour sessions. £10 with mince pie & coffee.Booking essential 01379 688333 [email protected]

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5Traditional Christmas Fayre: Redgrave &Lopham Fen. Tree dressing, winter BBQ &seasonal gifts, crafts & refreshments.10am-4pm. Admission free.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 12 & 19 & SATURDAY, 18Mid-Suffolk Light Railway ‘Santa Specials’:Brockford Station, Wetheringsett. All-inprice includes (£8 per head) refreshments& children's entertainment, journey to theNorth Pole Halt by steam train. Pre-booking essential at www.mslr.org.uk or01473 890622. Also a 'strictly for adults'version with on-board festive fair.

MONDAYSBallroom dancing: St Edmund’s Hall,Hoxne, 7.30pm-9.30pm (for adults).Sandra Hartley, 01728 723887.

TUESDAYSImprover line dance class: CoronationHall, Wilby. 9.30am-11.30am. Rose,01379 870346.Bingo: Thorndon Village Hall, 7.30pmevery other Tues (December 7 & 21).Brenda Hunt, 01379 678178. T-Plus: Coffee, cakes, stalls, 10am-noon,All Saints, Thorndon. 01379 879759.

WEDNESDAYSImprover/intermediate line danceclass: Wortham Community Centre.7.30pm–9.30pm. Rose, 01379 870346.Hoxon Hundred: Summer dance-outs atlocal pubs. Winter practises. Ron Ross,01379 643563.Little Treasure’s Baby & Toddler Group:St Edmund’s Hall, Hoxne, 10am-12pm,term time. 07910 8331949.

THURSDAYSWorlingworth Village Hall: Low impactKeep Fit and coffee: 10am–noon (ValSwallow 01728 628068); Choir: 6.30pm-7.30pm (Val Swallow 01728 628068);Aerobics – Hi-Lo Impact: 8pm–9pm(Sarah Foster 07884 186849).

FRIDAYSBingo: Stradbroke Community Centre,Wilby Road, 2nd Fri monthly. 7.30pm.Mary Ellis, 01379 384642.

FRIDAYS/SUNDAYSTraditional music: Worlingworth Swan,2nd Fri evening of month in summer.Sunday lunch in autumn & winter.

SATURDAYSArtisan Craft and Produce Market: -Hoxne Village Hall, 10am-2pm. SecondSaturday of the month.

SUNDAYSOpen days: 95th Bomb Group HeritageAssociation (10am-4pm) & 95th BGHospital Museum (10am-5pm) open onlast Sunday of month May-October.

TRANSPORT & LIBRARIES ETC

SCHEDULED BUS SERVICES (HORHAM):MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS: Bus Service 482 by Nightingale of Beccles (except Bank Holidays)Horham church 7.12 10.12 12.12 14.32 17.25Diss Bus Station 7.47 10.47 12.47 15.07 18.00Diss Bus Station 9.10 11.10 13.30 16.25 18.05Horham church 9.45 11.45 14.05 17.00 18.40 FRIDAYS: Fareline Bus & Coach’s 475 Wingfield-Stradbroke-Hoxne-Diss service leavesHorham from opposite the church at 9.52am arriving at Diss Bus Station at 10.32am.The return bus leaves Diss Bus Station at 1pm arriving at Horham at 1.35pm. Fulltimetable in bus shelter opposite church.

HIGH SUFFOLK COMMUNITY TRANSPORT (REDLINGFIELD): There are once-a-week return minibusservices from Redlingfield to Diss and Stowmarket. DISS-FRIDAYS: The Worlingworth-Bedfield-Redlingfield-Eye-Diss service picks up from TheKnoll at 9.42am arriving at Diss Bus Station at 10.07am. It returns from Diss Bus Stationat 12.20pm arriving at Redlingfield at 12.45pm. STOWMARKET-THURSDAYS: The Redlingfield-Worlingworth-Debenham-Stowmarket serviceleaves from The Knoll at 8.55am arriving at Stowmarket Market Place, Argos Store, at10am. It leaves Stowmarket at 1.10pm arriving in Redlingfield at 2.15pm. BURY ST EDMUNDS: On the third Saturday of the month this service picks up from TheKnoll at 9.20am. NORWICH: On the fourth Wednesday of the month this service picks up from The Knoll at8.45am.

FELIXSTOWE ETC: During Summer Fareline’s Diss-Eye-Framlingham-Woodbridge-Felixstoweservice (route 170) calls at Redlingfield.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT CONTACTS: Bus timetables: 01473 265097; download:www.suffolkonboard.com; order online: www.csduk.com/csd/forms. Home-to-schooltransport: 0845 6066067; timetables: www.suffolkonboard.com. Bus route & serviceenquiries: 0845 6066067. Traveline: 0871 2002233 & www.traveline.info.

DIAL-A-RIDE MINIBUS (ATHELINGTON, HORHAM & REDLINGFIELD): The Borderhoppa, which has acapacity of one to 16 people and offers disabled access, is available Mon-Fri, 8.30am- 5pm. Bookings are taken Mon-Fri, 8.30am-3.30pm, 48 hours in advance. Tel:

01379 854800. Email: [email protected] LIBRARIES: Suffolk residents may join both Suffolk and Norfolk public libraries.

EYE: Buckshorn Lane, Eye, IP23 7AZ. Tel: 01379 870515. Open: Tues 9.30am-1pm; Wed9.30pm-1pm & 2pm-5.30pm; Thurs 2pm-5.30pm; Fri 9.30am-1pm & 2pm-7pm; Sat9.30am-1pm; Sun 10am-3pm. STRADBROKE: Court House, Queens Street, Stradbroke, IP21 5HG. Tel: 01379 384768.Open: Tues 2.30pm-5pm & 5.30pm-7.30pm; Thurs 10am-1pm & 2.30pm-5pm; Fri2.30pm-5pm; Sat 10am-12.30pm; Sunday 10am-3pm.DISS: Church Street, Diss, IP22 4DD. Tel: 01379 642609. Open: Mon 9am-5pm; Tues9am-1pm; Wed 9am-7.30pm; Thurs 9am-5pm; Fri 9am-7.30pm; Sat 9am-1pm. MOBILE LIBRARY (HORHAM & REDLINGFIELD): The Mobile Library visits on alternate Thursdays- Dec 9 & 23; Jan 6 & 20; Feb 3 & 13. It stops at The Knoll, Redlingfield, 11.40am-11.50am and Horham Church, noon-12.10pm. To contact the mobile library, phone 07736007604. Alternatively, you can telephone the office 9am-noon, Mon-Fri, on 07872676698 or email [email protected]


WHAT’S ONFEATURES & NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8Chick Flick Night - Shirley Valentine:Wingfield Barns, 7pm. All tickets £10 (4for £30). Ticket includes film, wine andchocolates. 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10Thorndon Primary School ChristmasFayre.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 Cake Stall: from 8.30am in ChurchStreet, Stradbroke.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 14Christmas Social with Quiz: Eye &Stradbroke Family History Group,Stradbroke Community Centre, 7.30pm(01728 860551).Christmas Market: Hoxne Village Hall,10am-4pm.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19Christmas Bike Ride: Thorndon BlackHorse, 11am (678191).

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21Coffee Caravan Horham: 10am-noon,community centre.Festive Fun On The Fen: Redgrave &Lopham Fen. Activity day for 6-10 yearolds. 10.30am-2.30pm. Admission: £6per child (£10 for 2 children). Bookingessential - 01379 688333 [email protected]

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31New Years Eve Party: Horham &Athelington Community Centre, from8pm. All welcome. Bring some snacksfor communal table. Live music from theever-popular Paul ‘Hammy’ Hammilton.Bar open. Free entry.

TUESDAYS, JANUARY 4, 25 & FEBRUARY, 15Art Class: St Edmund's Village Hall, 3pmto 5.30pm. £21 for three sessions.Doreen Weller 01379 668291.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 5Redlingfield Coffee Morning: Jan andNeville Butcher’s Hill Cottage, 10am-noon. Including 'book swap'.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 8Party Night: Denham Village Hall,7.30pm till late. Dancing plus a fewsurprises - with Kevin King. Raffle - BYOdrink. Tickets £6, includes buffet, fromPam (871590) or Rose (870346).Admission by ticket only so book early toavoid disappointment.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 9 Pantomime Time - Sleeping Beauty witha difference: Wingfield Barns, 3.30pm.Tickets £6. A classic pantomime pluspuzzles for the audience. 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12Chick Flick Night: Wingfield Barns, 7pm.All tickets £10 (4 for £30) includes film,wine and chocolates. 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

FRIDAY, JANUARY 14An Evening with Phill Jupitus: WingfieldBarns, 6.30pm. Tickets £10 (bookingessential). 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

THURSDAY TO SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 TO 29Dr Jekyll & Miss Hyde Panto: byDebenham Players at DebenhamCommunity Centre. Performances startat 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2.30pm onSaturday. Adults £6, concessions £4,family ticket £18. Tickets online atwww.debenham-players.org.uk

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29Burns Night: Thorndon Village Hall.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2Redlingfield Coffee Morning: Chris andMidge Gibbons’ Rush Meadow, 10am-noon. 'Chai' in attendance.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 9Chick Flick Night: Wingfield Barns, 7pm.All tickets £10 (4 for £30) includes film,wine and chocolates. 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

MARGARET AND I AREbeginning our Christmascelebrations before Advent

Sunday by going to Scotland. Last December my new carol had its

first performance; early this year, Iadded a fourth verse and entered acompetition based in Edinburgh. Mynew words and tune did not reach thefinals, but we are going north to hearthe finalists at a seasonal concert, andto bring back some new ideas for whatwe should be singing.

In this last month of the year, we arechoosing our Christmas cards andpresents, planning that they will bedifferent from what we sent and gave

last year. This is the joy of Christmas,bringing together what is familiar andreassuring with gifts and greetings thatare up-to-date and well-selected, sothat we celebrate both the birthday of achild whose caring angels bring a newmessage for these anxious times, andwe follow the traditional ways ofbringing light and warmth, colour andhappiness, and good cheer, into ourown homes and into those with whomwe share the festival that celebratesGod sending his Son and his love to beborn in our world.

With all good wishes for Christmas & the New Year, David & Margaret Streeter

Seasonal celebrations

■ FAIRTRADE NEWS: The Eye Church shop is now open four times a week, it hasadded Thursday openings and this session offers a free cup of coffee. The four-times-a-week opening (Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri, 11am–1pm) will continue untilChristmas week, then it closes until the middle of January. There are also regularstalls – 1st Fri of the month St Marys Church Hall Diss, 9.30am-noon; 1st Sat of themonth Gislingham Village Hall, 10am-noon; 1st Tues of the month Thorndon Church10am-noon; and 1st Wed of the month Wilby Church 2.30pm-4pm. Sue Watson ■ BATTLE OF BRITAIN DAY: Aircrew who flew in WW2 proved a big attraction atDiss and District Royal Air Forces Association Battle of Britain Day at Flixton AviationMuseum in August. An estimated 6,000 people poured through the gates and manystopped to chat to veterans. Air Cadets from Beccles, Diss and Lowestoft staged amarch past in their honour. Among those who met the veterans were the chairmanof Suffolk County Council Eddy Alcock and chairman of Norfolk County Council TonyTomkinson. the next Diss RAFA Day at Flixton will be on August 14th. Brian Ager ■ FIREWORKS: What a great night we had at Horham & Athelington CommunityCentre on Saturday November 6th. Even the weather co-operated, it was dry butcold. There was a huge bonfire, lots of fireworks, and hot dogs and chips werewashed down with sparkling ale. More than £540 was raised. Grateful thanks to allwho made this possible especially the wonderful firework display. Angela Wilkins■ HARVEST SALE: The Stradbroke Harvest Sale, including goods from St Mary’sChurch in Horham, raised £100 for the charity Christian Aid.

amalgamate fields in the Sixties. Asthe summer fades away, it is difficultto cultivate seed beds in those placeswhere the sun don’t shine.

Now that hedges are preserved andmanaged, and grass margins restored,hopefully the right balance has beenstruck. Late drilling needs high seedrates, as in the old saying, “one seedfor the rook, one for the crow, one torot and one to grow.” They knew whatthey were talking about.

AFTER THE EXCITEMENT OF writing last time about the otter sighting inRedlingfield, I was firmly put in my placeby Cousin Edwin, now of East Bergholt.He remembers well my grandfatherorganising an otter shoot here at WashFarm. The neighbours were summoned,with guns, to exact retribution on the causeof the disappearing ducklings. The offenderwas duly smoked out of a drain to the pondand despatched. An indictable offencethese days, Grandfather should be turningin his grave.

SHORTLY AFTER HARVEST, WHENthe first fields had been ploughed, I saw mybest ever view of a buzzard, very closewith good views of the under-wing patternslike roundels. It was patrolling some bareland very close to the road at Fressingfield,searching for beetles and earthworms, allvery tiny snacks for such a large bird. A bitlike giving a donkey an oat, asgrandfather’s old cowman used to say. Hisname was Slobs Archer. When I wasyoung, I never thought to ask how he gothis nickname and now I wouldn’t want to.


LOOKING BACK AFTER A WETharvest and autumn, it is ironicthat we farmers in this neck of the

woods spent nearly four months earlier inthe year praying for more rain.

In June, the tramlines were as crackedand dry as a dried-up Aussie lake-bed andthe fields were full of spiders and beetles.The dogs loved these tractor wheelingswhen I was out crop inspecting. To them,they were cool green tunnels away from

the heat of the sun, and I would have towipe a cloak of cobwebs off our blacklabrador at the end of the field.

After a wet harvest, the poor weathercontinued and made September into thewettest for twelve years or more, so thatwheat drilling was delayed into mid-October. Making good seed beds becamea real challenge, and as we battled towork strong clay soils, you could see whyfarmers were happy to lose hedges and

NEIGHBOURING FARMER PETERSaunders rang to say he had a veryunusual and colourful duck on his farm atDenham. A male mandarin had joined themany mallard which fly in to the farm atcattle feeding time, very exotic anddistinctive, a welcome addition to theduck-pond. Last week whilst shootingmallard at a friend’s shoot in Occold, welearnt that he had successfully reared somemandarins under a bantam and we weretold under no circumstances were we toget the two muddled up. As they flewoverhead, picking the right bird from thewrong one, which would have lead to a redcard from Charlie the host, was verydiscombobulating. Hitherto, mandarinshave been of interest to the ornithologists,this may well change as mandarinnumbers increase through local breeders.

Mostly the domain of the wildfowler,duck shooting is often associated with thefading winter light, a subject much aired inthe press this year in the debate aboutchanging the clocks. As a beater on ashoot said one November day, “That don’thalf get late wholly early these days.”

Trevor Edwards’ Wash Farm Wildlife

Exotic mandarin ducks alongside the more familiarmallards - photo by Lucy Taylor, EADT .

■ ST JOHN’S REOPENS: St John’s Church in Denham is reopening on Sunday December12th at 11.30am, this follows the closure of the building for six months of building works.The repairs have been funded by charity grants, donations and the fundraising efforts ofthe Friends of Denham Church. The Rt Reverend Nigel Stock, Bishop of St Edmundsburyand Ipswich will lead a service of celebration and carols. Mulled wine and mince pies willbe served after the service giving an opportunity to inspect the repairs. From January themonthly family service will change to the second Sunday in the month at 11.30am.■ CAROLS IN THE CHURCHYARD: The Friends of All Saints, Stradbroke, carol singersand young musicians ask you to join them and all our favourite carols in the churchyard bylamplight, on Friday December 17th, from 6pm. There will be mince pies, roastedchestnuts and mulled wine, a collection and a guest appearance by our local “reindeer”.Wrap up warm and come along with the family – this is the evening to give those scarvesand mittens an outing! Margaret Streeter■ SAINTS & SINNERS: A 10-week WEA course entitled ‘Church & Chapel, Saints &Sinners, Priests & Parishioners’ starts on Wednesday January 19th at Stradbroke Sports &Community Centre, Wilby Road, Stradbroke. The sessions are Wednesdays at 2.30pm.Each session is 90 minutes with a short break. The course fee is £44. You can try the firstweek without obligation. For further details contact 01728 724746.■ POOL & DARTS NIGHT: Redlingfield were edged out in a traditional night of pool anddarts at Horham & Athelington Community Centre. The pool and darts night organised byDavid Whatling was such a success a return leg is planned and David is looking for otherteams to beat. Many thanks for hosting the event and the excellent refreshments.■ QUIZ NIGHT: Redlingfield Quiz Night at Horham Old School raised £210 for St Andrew’sChurch. Thanks to the teams of quizzers who attended and the those who contributeddraw prizes and those who worked so hard organising the event – especially Hazel &Pauline Abbott, Peggy Kerry, Madeleine Ellis & Keith Hawes. Chris Stanford■ PLANNING APPLICATION: Granted: Kiln Farm, Cranley Road, Redlingfield - proposal torevise conversion of redundant barn to residential.

FEATURES & NEWS

Don’t muddle up those exotic mandarins


WHAT’S ONFEATURES & NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8Chick Flick Night - Shirley Valentine:Wingfield Barns, 7pm. All tickets £10 (4for £30). Ticket includes film, wine andchocolates. 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10Thorndon Primary School ChristmasFayre.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 Cake Stall: from 8.30am in ChurchStreet, Stradbroke.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 14Christmas Social with Quiz: Eye &Stradbroke Family History Group,Stradbroke Community Centre, 7.30pm(01728 860551).Christmas Market: Hoxne Village Hall,10am-4pm.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19Christmas Bike Ride: Thorndon BlackHorse, 11am (678191).

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21Coffee Caravan Horham: 10am-noon,community centre.Festive Fun On The Fen: Redgrave &Lopham Fen. Activity day for 6-10 yearolds. 10.30am-2.30pm. Admission: £6per child (£10 for 2 children). Bookingessential - 01379 688333 [email protected]

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31New Years Eve Party: Horham &Athelington Community Centre, from8pm. All welcome. Bring some snacksfor communal table. Live music from theever-popular Paul ‘Hammy’ Hammilton.Bar open. Free entry.

TUESDAYS, JANUARY 4, 25 & FEBRUARY, 15Art Class: St Edmund's Village Hall, 3pmto 5.30pm. £21 for three sessions.Doreen Weller 01379 668291.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 5Redlingfield Coffee Morning: Jan andNeville Butcher’s Hill Cottage, 10am-noon. Including 'book swap'.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 8Party Night: Denham Village Hall,7.30pm till late. Dancing plus a fewsurprises - with Kevin King. Raffle - BYOdrink. Tickets £6, includes buffet, fromPam (871590) or Rose (870346).Admission by ticket only so book early toavoid disappointment.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 9 Pantomime Time - Sleeping Beauty witha difference: Wingfield Barns, 3.30pm.Tickets £6. A classic pantomime pluspuzzles for the audience. 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12Chick Flick Night: Wingfield Barns, 7pm.All tickets £10 (4 for £30) includes film,wine and chocolates. 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

FRIDAY, JANUARY 14An Evening with Phill Jupitus: WingfieldBarns, 6.30pm. Tickets £10 (bookingessential). 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

THURSDAY TO SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 TO 29Dr Jekyll & Miss Hyde Panto: byDebenham Players at DebenhamCommunity Centre. Performances startat 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2.30pm onSaturday. Adults £6, concessions £4,family ticket £18. Tickets online atwww.debenham-players.org.uk

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29Burns Night: Thorndon Village Hall.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2Redlingfield Coffee Morning: Chris andMidge Gibbons’ Rush Meadow, 10am-noon. 'Chai' in attendance.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 9Chick Flick Night: Wingfield Barns, 7pm.All tickets £10 (4 for £30) includes film,wine and chocolates. 01379 384505,[email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

MARGARET AND I AREbeginning our Christmascelebrations before Advent

Sunday by going to Scotland. Last December my new carol had its

first performance; early this year, Iadded a fourth verse and entered acompetition based in Edinburgh. Mynew words and tune did not reach thefinals, but we are going north to hearthe finalists at a seasonal concert, andto bring back some new ideas for whatwe should be singing.

In this last month of the year, we arechoosing our Christmas cards andpresents, planning that they will bedifferent from what we sent and gave

last year. This is the joy of Christmas,bringing together what is familiar andreassuring with gifts and greetings thatare up-to-date and well-selected, sothat we celebrate both the birthday of achild whose caring angels bring a newmessage for these anxious times, andwe follow the traditional ways ofbringing light and warmth, colour andhappiness, and good cheer, into ourown homes and into those with whomwe share the festival that celebratesGod sending his Son and his love to beborn in our world.

With all good wishes for Christmas & the New Year, David & Margaret Streeter

Seasonal celebrations

■ FAIRTRADE NEWS: The Eye Church shop is now open four times a week, it hasadded Thursday openings and this session offers a free cup of coffee. The four-times-a-week opening (Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri, 11am–1pm) will continue untilChristmas week, then it closes until the middle of January. There are also regularstalls – 1st Fri of the month St Marys Church Hall Diss, 9.30am-noon; 1st Sat of themonth Gislingham Village Hall, 10am-noon; 1st Tues of the month Thorndon Church10am-noon; and 1st Wed of the month Wilby Church 2.30pm-4pm. Sue Watson ■ BATTLE OF BRITAIN DAY: Aircrew who flew in WW2 proved a big attraction atDiss and District Royal Air Forces Association Battle of Britain Day at Flixton AviationMuseum in August. An estimated 6,000 people poured through the gates and manystopped to chat to veterans. Air Cadets from Beccles, Diss and Lowestoft staged amarch past in their honour. Among those who met the veterans were the chairmanof Suffolk County Council Eddy Alcock and chairman of Norfolk County Council TonyTomkinson. the next Diss RAFA Day at Flixton will be on August 14th. Brian Ager ■ FIREWORKS: What a great night we had at Horham & Athelington CommunityCentre on Saturday November 6th. Even the weather co-operated, it was dry butcold. There was a huge bonfire, lots of fireworks, and hot dogs and chips werewashed down with sparkling ale. More than £540 was raised. Grateful thanks to allwho made this possible especially the wonderful firework display. Angela Wilkins■ HARVEST SALE: The Stradbroke Harvest Sale, including goods from St Mary’sChurch in Horham, raised £100 for the charity Christian Aid.


WHAT’S ON

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1Redlingfield Coffee Morning: David andJacqueline's Western Barn, 1 AbbottsMeadow, 10am-noon. Free raffle, sherry &mince pies. The mobile information vehicleknown as 'Chai' will be in attendance.Redlingfield & Occold WI: Christmas athome Mary Ann Bartlett, 7.45pm, OccoldVillage Hall.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2An Evening with Tony Penrose: WingfieldBarns, 6.30pm. The son of Lee Miller andRoland Penrose relates tales of childhoodencounters with artists including PabloPicasso. £10 adults, £5 children. 01379384505, [email protected], orwww.wingfieldbarns.com/

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 3Redlingfield Ladies Christmas Lunch:Thorndon Black Horse, 12.30pm start.Contact Linda (01379 678984) to book orfor transport. Christmas Craft Fayre: Occold PrimarySchool, 6.30pm.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4Christmas Bazaar: Hoxne Village Hall.Christmas Market: Debenham High School.Christmas Workshop – Wreath Making:Redgrave & Lopham Fen. Make a wreath ortable decoration in an hour. 10am-4pm in 1hour sessions. £10 with mince pie & coffee.Booking essential 01379 688333 [email protected]

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5Traditional Christmas Fayre: Redgrave &Lopham Fen. Tree dressing, winter BBQ &seasonal gifts, crafts & refreshments.10am-4pm. Admission free.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 12 & 19 & SATURDAY, 18Mid-Suffolk Light Railway ‘Santa Specials’:Brockford Station, Wetheringsett. All-inprice includes (£8 per head) refreshments& children's entertainment, journey to theNorth Pole Halt by steam train. Pre-booking essential at www.mslr.org.uk or01473 890622. Also a 'strictly for adults'version with on-board festive fair.

MONDAYSBallroom dancing: St Edmund’s Hall,Hoxne, 7.30pm-9.30pm (for adults).Sandra Hartley, 01728 723887.

TUESDAYSImprover line dance class: CoronationHall, Wilby. 9.30am-11.30am. Rose,01379 870346.Bingo: Thorndon Village Hall, 7.30pmevery other Tues (December 7 & 21).Brenda Hunt, 01379 678178. T-Plus: Coffee, cakes, stalls, 10am-noon,All Saints, Thorndon. 01379 879759.

WEDNESDAYSImprover/intermediate line danceclass: Wortham Community Centre.7.30pm–9.30pm. Rose, 01379 870346.Hoxon Hundred: Summer dance-outs atlocal pubs. Winter practises. Ron Ross,01379 643563.Little Treasure’s Baby & Toddler Group:St Edmund’s Hall, Hoxne, 10am-12pm,term time. 07910 8331949.

THURSDAYSWorlingworth Village Hall: Low impactKeep Fit and coffee: 10am–noon (ValSwallow 01728 628068); Choir: 6.30pm-7.30pm (Val Swallow 01728 628068);Aerobics – Hi-Lo Impact: 8pm–9pm(Sarah Foster 07884 186849).

FRIDAYSBingo: Stradbroke Community Centre,Wilby Road, 2nd Fri monthly. 7.30pm.Mary Ellis, 01379 384642.

FRIDAYS/SUNDAYSTraditional music: Worlingworth Swan,2nd Fri evening of month in summer.Sunday lunch in autumn & winter.

SATURDAYSArtisan Craft and Produce Market: -Hoxne Village Hall, 10am-2pm. SecondSaturday of the month.

SUNDAYSOpen days: 95th Bomb Group HeritageAssociation (10am-4pm) & 95th BGHospital Museum (10am-5pm) open onlast Sunday of month May-October.

TRANSPORT & LIBRARIES ETC

SCHEDULED BUS SERVICES (HORHAM):MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS: Bus Service 482 by Nightingale of Beccles (except Bank Holidays)Horham church 7.12 10.12 12.12 14.32 17.25Diss Bus Station 7.47 10.47 12.47 15.07 18.00Diss Bus Station 9.10 11.10 13.30 16.25 18.05Horham church 9.45 11.45 14.05 17.00 18.40 FRIDAYS: Fareline Bus & Coach’s 475 Wingfield-Stradbroke-Hoxne-Diss service leavesHorham from opposite the church at 9.52am arriving at Diss Bus Station at 10.32am.The return bus leaves Diss Bus Station at 1pm arriving at Horham at 1.35pm. Fulltimetable in bus shelter opposite church.

HIGH SUFFOLK COMMUNITY TRANSPORT (REDLINGFIELD): There are once-a-week return minibusservices from Redlingfield to Diss and Stowmarket. DISS-FRIDAYS: The Worlingworth-Bedfield-Redlingfield-Eye-Diss service picks up from TheKnoll at 9.42am arriving at Diss Bus Station at 10.07am. It returns from Diss Bus Stationat 12.20pm arriving at Redlingfield at 12.45pm. STOWMARKET-THURSDAYS: The Redlingfield-Worlingworth-Debenham-Stowmarket serviceleaves from The Knoll at 8.55am arriving at Stowmarket Market Place, Argos Store, at10am. It leaves Stowmarket at 1.10pm arriving in Redlingfield at 2.15pm. BURY ST EDMUNDS: On the third Saturday of the month this service picks up from TheKnoll at 9.20am. NORWICH: On the fourth Wednesday of the month this service picks up from The Knoll at8.45am.

FELIXSTOWE ETC: During Summer Fareline’s Diss-Eye-Framlingham-Woodbridge-Felixstoweservice (route 170) calls at Redlingfield.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT CONTACTS: Bus timetables: 01473 265097; download:www.suffolkonboard.com; order online: www.csduk.com/csd/forms. Home-to-schooltransport: 0845 6066067; timetables: www.suffolkonboard.com. Bus route & serviceenquiries: 0845 6066067. Traveline: 0871 2002233 & www.traveline.info.

DIAL-A-RIDE MINIBUS (ATHELINGTON, HORHAM & REDLINGFIELD): The Borderhoppa, which has acapacity of one to 16 people and offers disabled access, is available Mon-Fri, 8.30am- 5pm. Bookings are taken Mon-Fri, 8.30am-3.30pm, 48 hours in advance. Tel:

01379 854800. Email: [email protected] LIBRARIES: Suffolk residents may join both Suffolk and Norfolk public libraries.

EYE: Buckshorn Lane, Eye, IP23 7AZ. Tel: 01379 870515. Open: Tues 9.30am-1pm; Wed9.30pm-1pm & 2pm-5.30pm; Thurs 2pm-5.30pm; Fri 9.30am-1pm & 2pm-7pm; Sat9.30am-1pm; Sun 10am-3pm. STRADBROKE: Court House, Queens Street, Stradbroke, IP21 5HG. Tel: 01379 384768.Open: Tues 2.30pm-5pm & 5.30pm-7.30pm; Thurs 10am-1pm & 2.30pm-5pm; Fri2.30pm-5pm; Sat 10am-12.30pm; Sunday 10am-3pm.DISS: Church Street, Diss, IP22 4DD. Tel: 01379 642609. Open: Mon 9am-5pm; Tues9am-1pm; Wed 9am-7.30pm; Thurs 9am-5pm; Fri 9am-7.30pm; Sat 9am-1pm. MOBILE LIBRARY (HORHAM & REDLINGFIELD): The Mobile Library visits on alternate Thursdays- Dec 9 & 23; Jan 6 & 20; Feb 3 & 13. It stops at The Knoll, Redlingfield, 11.40am-11.50am and Horham Church, noon-12.10pm. To contact the mobile library, phone 07736007604. Alternatively, you can telephone the office 9am-noon, Mon-Fri, on 07872676698 or email [email protected]

HELLO EVERYONE, MY NAME ISPC Amy Yeldham and as ofSeptember 22nd I joined the MidSuffolk North Safer Neighbour-hood Team (SNT) at Eye Police

Station. I have been in the Police Service forthe past seven years and I will be workingwith PC Tim Green and PCSO Steven Long.

Those who use heating oil are probablyprepared for winter with a full tank. Heatingoil theft is still a concern in Mid Suffolk sohere is some crime prevention advice to helpyou. You should: screen your tank withhedges and fences; close and secure gates ifyou have them; conceal any external pipework; install dusk-to-dawn lighting; regularlycheck fuel levels; consider installing a tankalarm/security device (consult your tanksupplier); install lockable caps supported bya closed shackle padlock (consult your tanksupplier); join your Neighbourhood Watchscheme, and keep an eye out and call thePolice should you see any suspiciouspersons or vehicles (vehicle registrations anddescriptions of the people are valuable to thePolice.)

With the build-up to Christmas starting,unfortunately we see a crime trend at thistime of year with thefts from outbuildings. Solet’s get in quick and double check oursecurity. Here is some advice to helpminimise becoming a target: install externallighting with dusk to dawn automaticsensors; fit a strong hasp and staple securedto the door and frame with coach bolts,reinforced on the inside with washers, use agood quality shackle padlock; fit internalbars and/or net curtains can obscure theview through windows; keep doors andwindows locked; and security mark valuableitems (ask the SNT about this).

PC 1330 Amy Yeldham, Mid Suffolk North SNT (01473 613 500)

YOUR LOCAL POLICE


GROUPS & CLUBS ETC

HORHAM & ATHELINGTON COMMUNITY COUNCIL (opposite the church): Membership £10 for afamily living at one address, (2 adults and children up to 16 years), £5 for a single adult,£3 for a junior 16/18 years (age must be proven). Membership fees run from Jan 1-Dec31. Membership forms are available from the bar staff, or Angela Wilkins on 01379384625. Community Centre club nights and opening hours: Wed, Fri, and Sat, 8pm-11pm(admission may be restricted when a private function is being held). Further informationon membership or events from Angela Wilkins. Hall bookings via Karen Alderton on01379 384754. Chairman - Margaret Streeter, The Rectory, Doctors Lane, Stradbroke,01379 384363. Personal Licence Holder - Rod Tyrrell, 01379 388285.

HORHAM OLD SCHOOL & SOCIAL CLUB (next to church): Membership £5 per year, and the Clubis open from 8pm till late on Tues and Fri. Chairman - Keith Hawes, Meadow Farm,Athelington, Eye, 01728 628608. Secretary - Margaret Streeter, The Rectory, DoctorsLane, Stradbroke. Hall Bookings via Pip Florance, 01379 384370, Laburnum Cottage,The Street, Horham. Personal License Holder - Keith Hawes.

REDLINGFIELD & OCCOLD WOMEN’S INSTITUTE: Meetings in Occold on the first Wed of everymonth except January when they are on the second Wed. President Caroline Miller,01379 678871. Information on meetings on What’s On pages of this magazine and atwww.onesuffolk.co.uk/RedlingfieldPC/WomensInstitiute/

NEW REEDING WOODS GROUP, POUND LANE WOOD, Redlingfield Road, Horham: Join a workingparty, or become a “Friend” by calling Mike Reeves on 01379 668179. This is communitywoodland, held in trust for all the villagers of Denham, Horham and Athelington.

95TH BOMB GROUP HERITAGE ASSOCIATION/RED FEATHER CLUB: Horham Airfield, IP21 5DG (seewhat’s on for open days & events). Annual membership £8. Frank Sherman, 01379678471 Email: [email protected] Web: www.95thbg-horham.com

95TH BOMB GROUP HOSPITAL MUSEUM, Shingle Hill, Denham, IP21 5EU (see what’s on for open days & events). Tel: 01379 870514. Email: [email protected] Web: www.hexpek.co.uk/95thbghm/index.htm

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - STRADBROKE AND DISTRICT BRANCH: The branch meet at The King’sHead, Laxfield (Low House), starting 11.30am on the first Thurs of the month for ameeting with speaker and lunch. Hon Sec Jeremy Higgins, 01379 384300. The branchare happy to welcome new members and to provide welfare support where appropriate.

EYE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WOMEN’S SECTION: The branch meet at Tacon Close CommunityRoom in Eye for social events, with guest speakers and to raise funds on the thirdMonday in Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct and Dec at 7.15pm. All women welcome. TheSecretary, Mrs C Elliott, 01379 644981.

ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION - DISS AND DISTRICT RAFA BRANCH (covers this area): Meetingssecond Monday of each month at Diss Town Football Club, Brewers Green Lane. Detailsfrom Brian Ager secretary 01379 640337 (email [email protected]). Website:www.onesuffolk.co.uk/DissandDistrictRAFA.

THE EYE GRAMMAR SCHOOL FUND: This trust fund provides grants to young people andeducational organisations serving those under 25 who live in Eye, Athelington, Bedfieldand Horham. Special grants are available to cover expenses not met by the localeducation authority. For application form write to: Mrs L Bernard, Clerk to the EyeGrammar School Fund, 2 Lowgate Street, Eye, Suffolk, IP23 7AS, or 01379 870787.


COLUMNS

AS YOU READ THIS IT IS likely the issue of SuffolkCounty Council’s Care Homein Eye, Paddock House, will bea matter of public discussion.

Suffolk County Council owns about 14homes across Suffolk with just over 500residents for whom we provide good/excellent care. Our employees carry outtheir duties to a high professionalstandard with lashings of TLC.

So why is the future of Paddock Housebeing questioned? In the past if localauthorities did not make provision forthe elderly then there was no otherinstitution that did. So places such asPaddock House were provided. Buttimes have changed. Private firms nowprovide more than 90% of care homeplaces in Suffolk. In these homes aresome residents whose fees are in partor in whole paid for by the county. Withthe increased inspection of care homesthe standards are equal and, in somecases, better than SCC care homes.

On average for every £1,000 spent onSuffolk County Council provision theprivate sector will cost £700. In abudget of £14 million you canappreciate how much money can besaved and used to provide a service toenable the elderly to remain in theirown homes or provide a place in aprivate care home. Suffolk CountyCouncil is consulting on the future of itscare homes. If you have any concerns orcomments please send them in toEndeavour House, Russell Road,Ipswich. We want to do the best for thepeople of Suffolk and we will ensure theneeds of the vulnerable are notoverlooked. Guy McGregor, County

Councillor – Hoxne & Eye Division

YOUR COUNTY COUNCILLOR


GROUPS, CLUBS, VOLUNTEERING

AGE CONCERN - REDLINGFIELD REPRESENTATIVE: Jacqueline Love, Western Barn, AbbottsMeadow, Redlingfield. 01379 678805, [email protected] Age Concern websitewww.ageconcern.org.uk/

SUFFOLK ANIMAL RESCUE: 5 Cherry Tree Lane, Debenham, Suffolk, IP14 6QT. Has rescuedcats, dogs, rabbits and other small animals seeking new homes. 01728 860937,[email protected] Website www.suffolkanimalrescue.org

SUFFOLK FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY - STRADBROKE & EYE GROUP: Stradbroke Community Centreon 4th Tues of the month at 7.30pm (entry £2). 01728 860551, www.suffolkfhs.co.uk

THE VALLEY FENS GROUP OF THE SUFFOLK WILDLIFE TRUST: Regular meetings on last Tuesday ofSeptember, October, November, January, February, March & April at Redgrave & LophamFen Visitor centre at 7.30pm. Meetings usually take the form of an illustrated talk. Thereis a charge of £2 which includes refreshments. In May, June & July there are guidedwalks in various locations. .Website: www.suffolkwildlife.co.uk/ Suffolk Wildlife Trust.


DENHAM VILLAGE HALL: Charges for hiring the hall range from £35 for all-day hires by non-residents to £7 for residents’ children’s parties. Electricity, which includes most of theheating, is extra, paid by a 50p and £1 slot meter in the kitchen. Bookings can be madewith Tina Chenery (01379 870797). Hall management committee chairman: Mr D.Reynolds (01379 668797); secretary: Rose McMahon (01379 870346).

FRAMLINGHAM BRIDGE CLUB: Meets at the Conservative Club Mon at 7 pm to play duplicatebridge. All players welcome - single players get a game. Improvers Class on Wed 1-4 pm.

OCCOLD PRESCHOOL: For children from 2½ to 5 years. Sessions Mon-Fri, including a lunchclub. Linda Jay at Occold Pre School, Occold Village Hall, Occold, Eye, Suffolk, IP23 7PL,07790 605219, [email protected]

JUNGLE CUBS AND JUNGLE GIANTS: For children 1 to 11 years at The Gymnasium, Kerrison,Thorndon. Includes out of school and holiday clubs. Open Mon-Fri, 7.30am-6pm.Whitney McMaster or Louise Austin 07834 483893.

EYE YOUTH CLUB: For 13-18 year olds on Tues and Wed 7.30-9pm at the Eye Youth Centreopposite the Church. Jonathan Pooley, 01379 870173 or 01379 870928.

FIRST EYE GUIDES: For girls aged 10 upwards. Eye Primary School on Tues 7-8.30pm. WendySpencer, 01379871125, or Sue White, 01379 870036.

1ST EYE SCOUT GROUP (INCORPORATING BEAVERS, CUBS & SCOUTS): All groups meet at theScout Hut, Wellington Road, Eye. Group Scout Leader is Tim Passmore 07970 544362 orcontact Joan Norman, 01379 890432 or [email protected]: For 6 to 8 year olds - boys and girls. Wed 5.30-7pm. Karen Ruth, 01379 873544.CUBS: For 8 to 10½ year olds. Fri 6-7.30pm. Sue Wood, 01379 669233.SCOUTS: For 10½ to 14 year olds. Tues 7.30-9pm. Kate Broad, 01449 673472.

VOLUNTEER CENTRE MID-SUFFOLK: There are usually up to 550 volunteering opportunities onoffer within 200 voluntary organisations in Mid Suffolk. These include driving communityvehicles, visiting and befriending and getting involved in community projects. The Centreat 5 Poplar Hill, Stowmarket, IP14 2AS, is open Mon to Fri 9am-2pm. Tel: 01449 612486.Email: [email protected] Web www.do-it.org.uk or www.optua.org.uk

EYE & DISTRICT VOLUNTEER CENTRE: You can get practical help or volunteer at 20 BroadStreet, Eye, IP23 7AF. Open: Mon 10.30am-12.30pm & 1.30pm-3.30pm; Wed 10.30am-12.30pm; Fri 10.30am-3.30pm. Tel: 01379 871200.

COLUMNS

IT HAS BEEN A BUSY FEW MONTHSfor me both locally, and in Parliament. I was successful in my campaign toreopen our much loved HartismereHospital, which will shortly undergo a

£1.5 million refurbishment, funded by the PCT. Asan NHS Doctor, I recognise the importance ofHartismere in providing crucial communityhospital services in rural Suffolk. But thecampaign for Hartismere Hospital does not endhere. We have been let down by the PCT in thepast, and we must ensure that this valuablecommunity facility is reopened with beds for localpeople. Ensuring that a fully functioning hospitalis reopened at Eye is my top priority.

Recently, I paid a visit to Paddock House in Eye,which also houses ten community care beds forpatients to rehabilitate after long stays in hospital.Paddock House is an excellent facility with aholistic approach to healthcare, looking aftervulnerable older patients with complex healthcareneeds. At the moment, the County Council isconsidering its residential care strategy, and wemust ensure that Paddock House remains open.

In Parliament, I have been raising the issuesthat matter to our area: promoting vocational andapprenticeship schemes in the agricultural sector,improving provision of community midwiferyservices in rural areas; and raising the issue ofunacceptably high public sector managerial pay.

I am also very aware that many older peoplestruggle with the costs of heating their homes overwinter, and I would like to see Parliament take amore active role in regulating gas and otherenergy suppliers who arbitrarily put up theirprices. It is the old and vulnerable who are mostaffected and I find that unacceptable.

If anyone would like to talk to me about localissues or has a problem they think I can help with,please contact my constituency office on 01728685148. In the meantime, although it seems a bitpremature, have a Merry Christmas and a HappyNew Year! Dr Dan Poulter, MP

YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

THERE IS MUCH talk of change in theair. The Governmentwants us to do more“locally” while the

District Councils are facingsevere cut backs in bothGovernment funding andgeneral income. It is a verytaxing time.

Mid Suffolk is preparing forthe proposed merger withBabergh with the result that wewill be saving money by sharingofficers and services to enableus to deliver as many of theservices you have come toexpect more efficiently. Thereare going to be losers I amafraid, but I am working hard torepresent the very rural heart ofthe ward, where we needtransport, travelling medicalservices and most of all our postoffices and shops. There areinventive ways in which we canwork together to bid for fundingwhere we identify a need.Horham and Athelington andRedlingfield already work welltogether as a community, weneed to preserve the best wehave and create more chancesfor every age group.

With Christmas just round thecorner I am hoping for a betterwinter than the last one. Pleaselet me know if there are peopleyou know who are alone andwould like a call. HappyChristmas from Rose Cottage

Elizabeth Gibson-Harries, District Councillor – Hoxne Ward

YOUR DISTRICT COUNCILLOR