1. education
2. school

LEISTON OBSERVER
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NEWS FROM VICTORY ROAD
TOWN COUNCIL NEWS
GARDENING TIPS
APRIL
2015
HERITAGE COAST RUN/WALK
PETS AND VETS
OUR LOCAL LONDON
MARATHON RUNNER
Kilamanjar
o Climb
See page 5
Hairspray!
See page 14
Teacher Recruitment
Agency
01440 764430
TEACHERS NEEDED
Primary & secondary qualified teachers
required for positions throughout
Norfolk & Suffolk.
Daily, long term and permanent
vacancies available.
See our website or call Samantha for
further details.
Email – debby.dyson@keyteacher.co.uk
www.keyteacher.co.uk
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A note from our Editor
It is a pleasure this month to feature individuals not only giving up their time but undergoing
gruelling training to raise money for worthy causes. Lana Challis and Hazel Hawkins trekked
six days in Tanzania to scale Mount Kilimanjaro raising over £16000 for Marie Curie. A huge
personal achievement for them both! Also local postie Beth Dunthorpe is already up to
sixteen mile runs in preparation for the London Marathon, in her bid to raise money for the
Stroke Association. We wish her all the very best!
Congratulations also, to everyone involved in the Alde Valley Academy production of
Hairspray - sell-out performances at the Leiston Film Theatre which were clearly very well
received!
Please let me know of anymore up-coming events or challenges you are planning, we would
love to feature them in this, your local magazine
Louiseissing
G
A quote for Easter
Easter is meant to be a symbol of hope, renewal and new life – Janine di Giovanni
Leiston Film Theatre Support Club Presents….
The Leiston Film Theatre Support Club is pleased to announce an evening with Mark Murphy, the popular Radio Suffolk presenter,
entitled ‘It Shouldn’t Happen To A Radio Presenter’ on Wednesday 8th April at 7.30 p.m. Knodishall Village Hall. Mark has been with
Radio Suffolk since its first transmission in April, 1990. Since 2000 he has presented the Breakfast Show. In 2003 he received a Sony
Gold Award for broadcasting and was crowned Radio Academy News Broadcaster of the Year. This will be an entertaining evening with
anecdotes of his career and an opportunity for the audience to ask questions. Tickets are £6.00 for Club members, £7.00 Non-members
and includes a ploughman’s supper. Available from the Club Secretary Tel: 01728 831714 or via tickets@leiston.info.
Also An Evening with Helen Fraser ……
An Evening with Helen Fraser. A miscellany of memories from stage and screen … past and present, devised and performed by Helen
accompanied by Keith Monk on Friday 15th May at 7.30 p.m. the W.I. Hall, John Street, Leiston. Helen has been a professional actress
for more than fifty years with an extensive career in theatre, film and television. She has worked with some of the biggest names in
show business. She played Barbara opposite Tom Courtenay’s Billy in the film “Billy Liar” (1963). Her TV roles include Sylvia (Bodybag)
Hollamby in the TV series “Bad Girls”. Helen’s show traces her theatrical journey and features some of the music which has played an
important part in her life. Tickets are £7.00 for Club members, £8.00 Non-members and includes light refreshments. Available from the
Club Secretary tele: 01728 831714 or via tickets@leiston.info
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Leiston Observer 3
Issues for Residents
News From Victory Road March 2015
We hope that everyone makes the effort to vote on the 7th May as
to not vote is to state you are happy with what is happening to our
communities. Is this what you want?
Life continues apace at Victory Road with lots
of activity going on at the clubhouse.
Hopefully we will have some new councillors who will bring new ideas
to promote our community.
Speaking to young people it appears perhaps there are more policies that
young people cannot relate to. We do not have families, the majority of
us are in education so don’t pay taxes - it does not matter to us if they
rise or fall. We care about the healthcare and education. We don’t seem
to care so much about the economy because we don’t know anything
about it. We don’t know about mortgages, pensions or whatever. All we
know is what we’ve experienced.
So please I hope you have all registered to vote to help shape the future
you want for yourself and others. Don’t wait for someone else to make
changes for the better - make sure your voice is heard so that you can
influence those changes yourself. Be a part of the decisions that directly
affect you.
Wishing all those putting themselves forward for Leiston cum Sizewell
Town Council and Also Suffolk Coastal District Council all the very
best.
Regards, Tony Cooper
Avocet Academy Trust (Leiston Primary School)
Leiston Primary has had a fantastic term! You have probably noticed that
the school has now changed its uniform to purple and we have been
out and about in the community and beyond to enhance the learning
opportunities for our children. The year 6 children have just returned
from a week in Norfolk where they have been studying coastal erosion
as well taking the opportunity to meet the Seals who reside nearby! We
would like to congratulate them on the high number of compliments
we received with regards to their behaviour and general conduct.
In school we have been focusing on developing writing based on real
experiences including the ‘stone age visitors’ who came to school and in
early years the children did some fantastic work based on Chinese new
year celebrations.
We are looking forward to the summer term with all the special events
including sports day, end of year performances and our summer fair.
We are currently investigating the possibility of extending our nursery
provision to full time rather than just the mornings that we currently
offer. This would include a hot lunch for the children and we would
aim to have the majority of the sessions led by a qualified early years
teacher. We would appreciate any views on this either via the school or
direct to me.
Regards, Tony Cooper
Chair of Governors Leiston Primary School.
E-mail tonyxcooper@hotmail.com Tele.# 01728 830181
On 21st February we staged our first Quiz Night. It was a really well attended
evening with both members and non-members entering into the spirit and
friendly competition. Certainly a successful evening which we will definitely
be repeating. We have had two music evenings. B4 entertained us in the
function room and then on 7th March the Broadside Boys provided the live
music in the members bar. These evenings are proving very popular and
we have two more already lined up for you. On 18th April Josh Mellor will
be joining us, with the return of Steve Boyce on 25th April. These evenings
are free and well worth a vist to Victory Road. On 19th March we were
delighted to welcome one of the big names from 1970s football with Ron
Harris (Chopper), the former Chelsea captain, being the guest speaker at the
Leiston FC Sportsman’s Dinner. It was an excellent evening with a delicious
three course meal cooked by club steward, Geoff Tanganelli, a comedian
and a fascinating speech from Ron Harris. Over 100 supporters, players and
sponsors attended the evening raising money for EACH and Mr Harris’ own
charity. This month has also seen our Have Your Say event when the local
community had the opportunity to give their views on the way forward
for the club. This evening was well attending and during a period of frank
discussion several ideas were put forward. The minutes of the evening
have been circulated to those members for whom we have email addresses
and are now being considered by the trustees. There will be more news
to follow in future months. We have two important events taking place in
April. On Wednesday 15th April we will be hosting the Suffolk FA Premier
Cup between Lowestoft and Whitton. The kick off is at 7.45 and everyone is
welcome to come along and enjoy an evening of good quality football. Just a
shame LFC went out in the semi-final to Lowestoft. The Bowls section is also
busy preparing for the new season which begins in April.
Leiston Town Bowls Club News.
Leiston Town Bowls members are looking forward to the new season. At
their committee meeting in March the committee agreed final plans for
the new season. Greenkeeper Peter Baggott stated the green was near to
its best again now after the problems of 3 years ago and Gerald reported
the pavilion, changing rooms & surrounding gardens were all looking good,
ready for open day. Secretary Grennie Wright confirmed the fixture lists were
now all complete & the fixture list cards would be available for the Spring
General Meeting on April 8th at 7pm in pavilion. The committee agreed to
start the season by opening the green on April 19th when it was hoped a
high attendance of members would make for an enjoyable Town Trophy. All
members including prospective new members welcome at 2pm for 2.30pm
start. On Sunday April 26th the club will be holding an open day between
2pm & 4pm, when it is hoped that anyone in or around the town who has
considered trying their hand at flat green bowling will come & give it a go.
All equipment, coaching & teaching from club members will be available.
Any club members wishing to share their skills with new members would
also be welcome. So come on all you youngsters and not so youngsters come
and meet us and try your hand, you’ll be surprised how enjoyable and easy
it is to grasp the basics whilst the finer art of the game will grow on you.
May 16th the Solar Store has agreed to a big hamper draw in their foyer so
please come and support us. 2015 is going to be an enjoyable & successful
season, come & join us! On a less enjoyable note the club is sorry to keep
hearing about the possible demise of the Leiston Garrett (x Con club). Whilst
there has always been friendly rivalry between us our regular derbies would
be sadly missed, also losing another club means fewer teams to make
competitive leagues so we hope the rumours are unfounded. Local freebie
readers would also miss the friendly banter between Firebowler & Ditcher
which has become a regular read for many. Should the worst fears become
reality the Leiston Town Bowls Club would welcome anyone interested in
joining us. I’m aware that Firebowler has been experiencing some difficult
times of late& would wish to send my thoughts and wishes to him.
Dates for the diary
•
•
8th April - Leiston Town Bowls Spring General Meeting 7.00pm
15th April - Suffolk FA Premier Cup Final. Lowestoft v Whitton. 7.45 kick
off
•
18th April - Josh Mellor singing live in the members bar.
•
19th April - LTAA bowls green opens. 2pm
| landscaping | bricklaying | fencing |
•
25th April - Steve Boyce singing live in the members bar, 9.00pm
•
26th April – Open Day – All Welcome. LTAA Bowls section open day
| painting & decorating | repairs |
2-4pm
•
27th April - Leiston Bowls Club first game of the season, away
call gary on
•
2nd May - Old Comrades Buffet and dance. Tickets from Ron Freeman
07968 002 267
•
May 16th
Solar Store
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4 Leiston Observer
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Kilamanjaro Climb
Sizewell B employees Hazel Hawkins and Lana Challis have reached
an incredible fund raising target and lifetime achievement, scaling
Mount Kilimanjaro. The pair have raised over £16,300 for Marie
Curie, beating their original target of £4,500 by over 360%.
Keen to really put themselves to the test, Hazel and Lana took on
the biggest challenge they could find for EDF Energy’s charity
partner. The fundraising duo were a regular sight around the
county whilst training for the challenge. But as Suffolk isn’t known
for its hills they also trekked around the Lake District and scaled
two of the three peaks. They clocked up some 160 miles in their
walking boots just in training. Lana and Hazel set off for the
Kilimanjaro Trek on 13 February, for a ten day trip, including six
days trekking, taking in some of Tanzania’s most spectacular sights
before reaching the mountain’s peak at 5895 metres. Marie Curie
was selected as EDF Energy’s three-year charity partner in May
2013 by an employee vote, which more than 7,000 members of staff
participated in. All of EDF Energy’s employees are encouraged to
fundraise for the charity, and EDF Energy has pledged to match
this fundraising by up to £100,000 for each year of the partnership.
The Engineers Arms
Leiston
01728 635883
Events for April
Monday Night Quiz
Weekly at 8pm
10th April
Ace Karaoke
11th April
Random Blues Band
17th April
Ace Karaoke
25th April
Brit Pop Disco
Mon - Thurs 5pm - 7pm
Happy Hour & Free Pool
Find us on Facebook
Marshall & Lilley Ltd
Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians
01728 833114 marshall.lilley@btconnect.com
26 High Street Leiston IP16 4 EW
LEISTON CAB HELPS WITH CHANGES TO WELFARE BENEFITS
There has been a great deal of publicity in the run-up to the introduction of Universal Credit across the country, and now our area
needs to be ready for the changes. Leiston CAB has been working closely with the benefits administrators so that we can give the best
possible advice to our clients. So what is it? Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit for people of working age with a low income.
To qualify, you must be under the age when you can make a claim for Pension Credit. You don’t have to be out of work to get it: you
may qualify if you are working, looking for work, sick or disabled, or caring for children or for a disabled person. It is means-tested,
which means that the amount you receive depends on how much income and capital you have got. Capital means things like savings
and some kinds of property. Jobcentre Plus will administer the benefit. It will eventually replace many existing benefits, which will be
abolished, namely: Income Support; Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance; Income-related Employment and Support Allowance; Child
Tax Credit; Working Tax Credit; Housing Benefit; and Budgeting loans. You will have to meet various conditions to get Universal Credit.
These include accepting a claimant commitment. This is a document that says what you will have to do to prepare for work, find work,
get better paid work, or work more hours. For example, you may have to go to interviews to help you find work or apply for jobs. You
can get more information either from your local Jobcentre Plus or from the Leiston CAB. We are open at Leiston as follows.
Monday 10.00 am – 1.30 pm
Tuesday 10.00 am – 2.30 pm
Wednesday – closed but open at the Meadow Children’s
Centre in Saxmundham 10 am – 12 noon
Thursday 10.00 am – 2.30 pm
Friday 10.00 am – 1.30 pm.
Telephone 01728 832 193. We also operate outreach services – the Leiston Bureau can tell you where and when, or you can visit our
website at www.leistoncab.org
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Leiston Observer
5
Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council Meeting 3rd March 2015
(Editied – for full details please go to www.leistontowncouncil.gov.uk
Pre-meeting Reports
3rd March 2015
Police Report. The Chairman welcomed PC Carl
Lawrence, Suffolk Constabulary, who gave members
a brief report on the crime statistics for February. He
was asked about the policy of enforcement in the
20mph area of the town centre and response times.
Parking on pavements was still a problem in the town
centre and the SNT was asked to continue working
on this.
Mr Chris Betson and Mr Andrew Fell. Mr Chris
Betson, Chair of Governors at Alde Valley Academy
and Mr Andrew Fell, Regional Advisor for Bright
Tribe Trust (sponsors of the Alde Valley Academy)
updated the meeting on progress and future plans
at the High School since Bright Tribe took over in
January. Mr Betson gave a short resume of the
events leading up to Bright Tribe becoming the
sponsors and members were pleased to hear that
Emma Laflin had now officially been confirmed as
the first Principal. He explained to the meeting that
Bright Tribe had brought an awful lot of resource
and expertise to the school since taking over and the
school was currently being restructured to take into
account the falling pupil role and was also designing
a revised Post 16 curriculum to take greater account
of the needs of students as they approach adulthood
and employment. Once this is complete the issue of
uniform will be addressed after consultation with
the parents. Cllr Ginger regretted that the falling
numbers had meant redundancies amongst the staff
and hoped that this would be sorted out quickly with
the unions to ensure morale could be restored. Cllr
Howard asked about the lease on the sixth form
centre and was told that the site reverts back to
the County Council once the sixth form have moved
out. Mr Betson advised that the County Council had
granted Alde Valley a 5yr licence on the site and
that at the end of this period it would revert to the
County. Alde Valley hoped to relocate the 6th form to
the Seaward Avenue site for the start of the 2015/16
school year. He expected the sixth form to have all
moved back onto campus in Seaward Avenue by
September. Most people were in agreement that
the split sites was not efficient and that 6th Form
provision would be best catered for on the main
site. The infrastructure there was being upgraded to
accommodate them. Cllr Last asked about the supply
chain from Stockport and agreed to talk to Andrew
Fell outside the meeting to unpick exactly what his
concerns were with this. Mrs Hill enquired about
the educational team and Mr Fell’s role as Regional
Advisor and Mr Taylor asked for clarification that
Alde Valley Academy would not become a Nuclear
Academy. By this it was assumed that he meant that
they would not only concentrate on a pathway for a
career in Nuclear Power – Cllr Howard clarified this
and asked for assurance that other forms of power
would be on the curriculum too.They also sought
assurance that Bright Tribe was not funded by the
nuclear industry. Mr Fell and Mr Betson assured
him that there were many educational pathways
making up the curriculum, that EDF were not funding
Bright Tribe and that Alde Valley wouldn’t become a
“Nuclear Academy.
the steel used in County Council roadsigns as he was
concerned about their longevity – he had noticed
many were falling over or were broken.
District Council. Cllr Cooper tabled a report which
included details of the SCDC budget and the visit of
The Police and Crime Commissioner to the Council.
Cllr Howard asked about the recently advertised
post for an economic advisor to help SCDC make
the most of the opportunities that Sizewell C might
bring. He wondered who was funding the post. Cllr
Cooper informed him that it was being jointly funded
between SCDC and EDF. Cllr Howard then enquired
once more about the fact that JLAG meetings were
not open to the public. He was again informed that
the meetings involved discussions with officers who
had a duty of confidentiality with many of the issues
being discussed. Mr Hawes asked whether, should
the Town Council take on the Primary School Field,
a secure dog exercise area could be considered – this
would be beneficial for residents and also reduce the
number of dogs on the adjacent recreation ground.
Mr Taylor asked that, at the following days North
Area Development Control meeting, whether Cllr
Cooper could ensure that the topic of connectivity
between Aldhurst and the current SSSI was raised for
consideration.
Public. The residents of Long Row wished the council
to be aware of their severe frustration at the recent
Planning Permission granted for housing in Long Row.
They were extremely concerned about the fabric of
their own properties which, having no foundations
and being some of the oldest in the town, were very
susceptible to subsidence which the increased traffic
and construction vehicles any developments would
bring to the lane would exacerbate.They understood
that the Town Council had strongly recommended
refusal of the application for those reasons as well
as the actual road safety issues at the junction. The
residents could not understand how the County
Council officers had agreed that the junction was
suitable for more development. They asked for the
Council to help them try and get this application
overturned. They felt that one way was to make Long
Row a conservation area
At a meeting of the LEISTON-cum-SIZEWELL TOWN
COUNCIL held in the COMMUNITY CENTRE, King
Georges Avenue, Leiston, on TUESDAY, 3rd March
2015 at 8.20 p.m.
Long Row. There was considerable sympathy for the
quandary faced by the residents of Long Row. Anyone
local knew there was more than the aggravated
issues many proposed developments engender in this
situation and members agreed that the permission
granted was wrong.To overturn a planning decision
however was difficult and required an instruction
from the Secretary of State. On a proposition from Cllr
R Bailey, seconded by Cllr Hodgson, it was agreed to
write to Mr Pickles to request such a decision and to
also request that Long Row be made a conservation
area. The latter would need some time and might
not preclude development even then although it
would at least be more in keeping.The appeal to the
Secretary of State however would require evidence
of a flawed decision which everyone was asked to
provide to the Clerk to help him write a letter.
Haylings Pond Car Park. Councillors noted the
quotation from NJB for £877 to repair and make good
the final part of the drive into the Haylings Pond car
park.This was considered worth the expense to just
finish off the project and, on a proposition from Cllr
Hodgson, seconded by Cllr Howard it was agreed to
go ahead. The Clerk was asked to get an estimate for
clearance of the other entrance (onto water tower
lane) and for laying some slabs across the muddy part
of that entrance.
Film Theatre. Members noted the Clerk’s report
which outlined the progress to date on the cinema
extension project and the proposed course of
action to further the single storey alternative. At
the February meeting the Clerk had been given
permission to negotiate with the adjacent landowner
to try and purchase the piece of land at the end of
the next door gardens to allow a toilet block to be
erected close to the Theatre.The maximum amount
members had agreed was £10,000 to make the
project viable. Anymore and it would be more cost
effective to build slightly further from the Theatre
on the Council’s own land. Unfortunately, the Clerk
had not received an acceptable response to date
but was hopeful the landowner might still support
the Council’s ambitions. Members confirmed the
£10,000 limit (proposed by Cllr Howard, seconded
by Cllr Ginger) and also confirmed that the Clerk be
given authority to spend up to £3,000 to employ an
architect to draw up plans, either for the new plot
or for the Council land if negotiations fail.This would
be to take the project through planning and was
proposed by Cllr Boast and seconded by Cllr Bailey.
Currently Hoopers had still not got in all the revised
tenders for the two storey project but they would get
back to us once they had.
Primary School Playing Field. Members noted that,
although the offer of overage and contributions for
maintenance to allow divestment of the Primary
School playing field to this Council was fair, the
removal of the drift onto King George Avenue
from the Register of Title meant that there was no
means of access. Members were very happy with
the stipulation that it would continue to be used for
recreational use however and, on a proposition from
Cllr Ginger, seconded by Cllr Howard, it was agreed
to take the land, under the terms offered, but only if
full rights of access could be obtained. Cllr Hawkins
abstained.
Police meeting. Members met with Inspector Aitken
on 25th Feb where they learned that the Safer
Neighbourhood Team would not be affected by the
budget cuts recently announced by the PCC. The
Halesworth response team hub would also remain
at its current strength too. The PCSO’s would be
reviewed later in the year but it was widely thought
that they would not be cut, indeed, PCSO’s and
Specials would probably increase.
Review of Film Theatre Admission Charges.
Members noted the report from the Theatre
Manager which recommended new pricing bands
for 2015/16. These added 50p to an adult and senior
ticket with no change to a child’s ticket which would
County Council. Cllr Smith reported that the County
remain at £4.95. On a proposition from Cllr Boast,
Council had set their budget at £499 million for
seconded by Cllr D Bailey, it was agreed to accept the
15/16 which was a saving of £38.2 million on the Highways Meeting of 24 Feb. Members were recommendations in full, including implementing the
year before. On 9th February he had met with Kier pleased that Highways were taking the HGV problem
new charges on 27th March.
to see how their operation was progressing and was seriously and Cllr Howard amended the minutes from
Ambulance Response Times. It was noted that East
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hopeful that, with such a benign winter
this year,
theWhere
meetingto
to Eat
recommend
a “No
had the worst response times in the County.
they would be able to catch up with the backlog. Mr than an “unsuitable for HGV” sign at the entrance to
Down to 50% last August from a target of 75% for 999
Taylor asked whether Cllr Smith could enquire about
Buller Road.
calls to be reached in 8 minutes.
6 Leiston Observer
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Gardening - Tips for April
Spring has finally sprung and the daffodils are flowering and the trees have now started to bloom. Expect the inevitable - April showers this month!
Fingers crossed for sunny days too.
IN THE GARDEN/ALLOTMENT
This month you can turn your attention to your lawn, you can give it a spring top dressing, or weed and feed. Give it its first cut, but remember don’t
cut it too short this early in the season. Its the time to sow new lawns and to repair bare patches. Keep weeds under control as with the warmer and
sometimes wet days in April they soon take hold of your plot or your borders. Protect fruit blossom from late frosts with fleece. Tie back climbing and
rambling roses. Sow hardy annuals and herb seeds. As temperatures and daylight increase give more water and feed to your house plants. Plant out
your main crop potatoes once they are chitted. Add a little potato fertilizer to the soil, this will help boost the plant’s growth later on. Potato planting is
traditionally done at Easter, as the soil begins to warm. Pick your first rhubarb which has been growing under cover. However do not overpick as this
can weaken the plant in the long term.
IN THE GREENHOUSE
Sow sweetcorn,squashes and courgettes now. Prick out and plant on any seedlings of suitable size. Ventilate your greenhouse in warm weather to
prevent a build up of pests and diseases. Move young plants from the greenhouse to the cold frame as soon they are of a reasonable size.
Its a good idea to prepare your runner bean plants in a layer of newspaper, and later when planting out to line the trench with plenty of newspaper, this
helps retain moisture for the hot dry days to come! There are so many jobs to do in the garden at this time of the year so for more advice,fertilizers and
sundries pop into the Allotment Shop in Valley Road. Open on Saturday mornings from 10,00am to 12.00pm.
Happy Easter from your Friendly Allotment Society
194 High Street, Aldeburgh Suffolk IP15 5AJ
M.C.T. ELECTRICAL
Domestic Appliance Repairs/Enquiries
Tel/Fax 01728 830626
E-Mail mick@taylor1492.fsworld.co.uk
Domestic Appliance,
DIY & Hardware Sales
Tel/Fax 01728 454600
office
solut
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big enough to cope,
small enough to care
• Commercial Office Supplies
• Ink and Toner Cartridges
• Office Interiors
• Business Machines
• Facilities Management Supplies
• Retail Stationery
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Tel: 01728 830893 • Fax: 01728 830288 • leiston@brosltd.co.uk • www.brosltd.co.uk
Leiston Primary School & Nursery (part of Avocet Academy Trust)
Enriching the curriculum
Our Year 6 pupils had a fantastic week
at Alymerton Field Study Centre in
North Norfolk – learning about coastal
erosion and the effects and impact on
the Norfolk coastline line, observing
seals in their natural habitat at Blakeney,
driving boats on the Norfolk Broads
and many on site activities to promote
team work and to challenge themselves . The food and accommodation
was excellent! Pupil’s responses : ‘It was really fun and shows you can
go a whole 5 days without electronics’ - Sky ‘I really want to go again’
– Robyn. A Stone Age experience came to Year 3 and Year 4 with a day
experiencing what life could have been like in the Stone Age to Iron
Age – looking at tools and weapons, how to skin and prepare an animal
and make use of everything (using bones for needles and tools, internal
organs for storage as well as food and the hide for clothing and creating
shelters), hunting tools and techniques, warfare including the retelling
of the story of Boudicca! This is what some of the young cave dwellers
commented about the day: ‘I enjoyed the day because we got to hold
the tools and equipment that they would have used’ – Freya ‘I enjoyed
dressing up in the stone age clothes’ – Kira. A trip to Dunwich Heath by
our Year 5 pupils had them experiencing Geocaching, using GPS to find
a location with a hidden box and then responding to a challenge – create
a piece of art on the beach, as well as bug- hunting and den-building. The
following week a day was spent at Carlton Marshes, dyke dipping, using
keys for identification and classification and looked at plant life cycles
including using drama. ‘I really enjoyed the trips especially learning
more about the animals’ – Kyra. ‘I enjoyed Carlton Marshes because we
looked at minibeasts in their natural habitat’ – Matthew. Year 2 had an
enjoyable day at Foxburrow Farm, pond dipping, mini beast hunting,
going into the depths of Cragg Pit to build a home suitable for an animal,
seed planting and pot making and they learnt about how the bumble bee
gets nectar from flowers.‘I liked it when we did pond dipping, I enjoyed
catching the insects under the water’ – Evie. ‘I liked it when we looked
under the logs on a mininbeast hunt because my group found a frog and
a newt.’ – Alannah. In the last week of term, we celebrated our book week,
with a focus on non-fiction writing. We had a fantastic opportunity to
watch ducklings hatch in an incubator in a classroom (new life emerging
just in time for Easter!), to handle them and watch them change and
grow over the four days we had them in school – so cute! On a more
scary side we had a visit over two days from Zoo-Lab giving the pupils
an insight into creatures we wouldn’t normally find in this country –
snakes, tarantula, tree frog, giant millipede, great African land snail, stick
insects, hissing cockroaches, tortoise. If you are interested in our school
or nursery provision please give us a call to arrange a visit on 01728
839745. Please visit our website www.leistonprimary.org.uk to find out
more about us!
Trustee wanted:
We are currently looking for an additional Trustee
for Avocet Academy. As a Trustee you will be part of
shaping the future of the Trust and ensuring that it is
fully accountable and sustainable. We would like to
appoint someone from a financial background to help develop our strengths
in this area. This is an unpaid position and Trustees are required to meet
between six and eight times a year in total. Meetings are held in each of the
three schools currently part of the Trust (Easton, Leiston and Wickham Market.)Any interested parties should contact Dr Peter Elliott, Avocet Academy
Trust Chair of Trustees, Wickham Market Primary School, Dallinghoo Road,
Wickham Market, Suffolk IP13 0RP or email business.leader@avocetacademy.org by 13th April 2015
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Leiston Observer
9
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Soprano Laura Wright visits Alde Valley Academy
This week saw Suffolk Sporano,
Laura Wright, stop off at Alde Valley
Academy on a national tour of
schools in areas she will be revisiting
for her current UK run of shows. She
took part in a game of rugby with the
students; something that she is doing
at each school; aimed at driving
up the participation in the sport –
particularly girls. The England team’s
official national anthem singer, set up a girl’s squad for rugby as a pupil of
Framlingham College and currently plays full back for Rosslyn Park Ladies.
The pupils had a great time and Laura said “It’s really special to be involved in
a project like this.”
Leiston in the Great War Group
Commemorating the Battle of NeuveChapelle - 10-13 March 1915
The commemorative Parade and Service took place on Sunday 8 March. The Parade led by the
Leiston Royal British Legion Band, made up of the Suffolk Regiment Old Comrades Association
Leiston Branch and Legion Standards, Councillors, Leiston Detachment ACF and ATC Squadron,
Scouts and Cubs marched off from the Cadet Centre at 2.10. The Church Service was led by the
Revd Martin Phillips-Last, Monsignoir Tony Rogers and Revd Ian Gardiner. We were joined by Dr
Therese Coffey MP, Mr Richard Smith County Councillor, Town Council Chairman Mr Tony Cooper,
Major General John Sutherell, Mr John Richardson, President of SROCA and Mr Denis Bloomfield
, County Chairman TRBL. The Parade returned to the Cadet Centre after the Service. Thanks to
the Ex-Service Club for providing hospitality. On Thursday 12 March at the Long Shop Museum,
Historian Taff Gillingham gave an interesting talk - from the formation of the Territorial Force to the
end of the Battle and its effects on the Great War.The Leiston in the Great War Project is complete
and the Group wound up. Our grateful thanks to all who helped and supported us during the events
held over the past few months.
Trevor Peskett
Parading despite renovations!!
The Cadet Centre in Victory Road is at present undergoing major renovation work,
which will bring it up to a first class facility that should be completed towards the end
of March. Despite the renovations, Stuart Smith, ex cadet and CI of 1379 (Leiston)
Squadron, having returned from Freetown , gave a talk on his experiences of Operation Garrick to cadets and parents, plus
other guests in the cadet centre in Victory Road. This was despite the renovations and people brought their own chairs to sit
on! Activities during this period have so far included 10-pin bowling, team work, map reading and compass work, drill, WHT’s
and shooting at another squadron, Heart Start, plus training for Inter-squadron competitions.With other trips planned such as a
visit later in the year to the Shuttleworth collection, a climbing wall. The Air Cadets in an equal opportunity youth organisation
from 12 -18years. If you are interested please contact the Air Cadets on Fridays between 7:15hr – 21:30hrs on 01728 831686
or email oc.1379@aircadets.org
The Suffolk & Royal Anglian Regiment
Leiston Branch OCA Report, March, 2015
Our usual monthly meeting took place at the LTAA in the evening of 4th March, preceded by our AGM. 9 members attended, also Trevor Peskett,
Chairman of the Leiston RBL, who came along to explain final arrangements for the WW1 parade on Sunday, 8th March. Our meetings are now very
informal, and John Richardson in his report suggested that all serving officers retain their positions for another year as there is in fact no-one at present
to replace them. All agreed to carry on as long as possible. Chairman, Alf Watson in his remarks paid tribute to the work of all who keep the branch
going, and had especial praise for our Standard Bearer, who is always available for funerals, etc. when requested. Well done one and all! Our treasurer
reported a reasonable state of affairs regarding our finances, so we are able to continue to help and support all members of our regimental families. If
there are any problems, please let us know. One interesting item for discussion was the ownership of the Union Jack (Flag) at present on display in the
Long Shop Museum. We know it was brought back from the Far East by Hermy Bailey, and OCA members helped to hang it in position. Now it needs
some attention to preserve it, but nobody seems to know for sure who it actually belongs to – the Town Council, the Museum, or the OCA. If anyone
has any idea, please let us know. It all happened a long time ago and memories fade, but someone might know!! The parade on Sunday, 8th March to
commemorate the Battle of Neuve Chapelle was well attended, and I would like to thank and commend the RBL Band, those of the OCA still able to
march, the Army and Air Cadets, and all members of the Scout and Guide movement, who turned out in what was an excellent little parade. We even
had a photo in the East Anglian Daily Times, (Wed. 11th March), so that was a bonus. I’ll bet all those who died or suffered wounds in that battle would
be, in squaddie language, “really chuffed” to be remembered 100 years later – so thank you everyone, including those who watched from the pavement.
Where
to Stay
to Eat
Whosmile,
to Use
findGod
yourbless.
service on www.leistonobserver.com
Spring isn’t far away, so pack up your
troubles
in yourWhere
old kitbag
and smile,
smile!
Jim Taylor
10 Leiston Observer
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Pets & Vets
Do you know what you are feeding your dog??
At Leiston Veterinary Clinic we really want what is best for your pets.
A lot of cats and dogs we see are overweight and have poor dental hygiene and/or behavioural issues. I would estimate nearly every other patient
we see falls into this first category. Unbelievable really when you think about it. Many dogs we see are fed a very popular brand of food (actually the
best selling in the UK), but this is full of colours and additives. Many are fed it because it is readily available in the supermarket when you do your
weekly shop and the packaging is colourful, as are the biscuits!!! Ask yourself this question, what do you think goes into this food to make it so brightly
coloured? Now imagine a packet of coloured kids sweets and you can see where this is headed; Sugars, un-named products, preservatives and colours.
There is more sugar in this diet than most other diets available on the market. Lots of sugar equals lots of energy equals hyperactivity and very bad
teeth! There is believed to be 13 ‘E’ numbers in this diet, to put this in perspective a famous company’s burger only contains 7! Many of these ‘E’
numbers have been found to cause horrible conditions within research, like tumours, asthma, blood disorders, skin sensitivities, rashes, high blood
pressure, hyperactivity, abnormal behaviour, kidney damage and cancers. It’s definitely not for your dogs benefit that it is colourful, as they are red and
green colour blind. It’s appealing to the owner, it’s a brilliant marketing tool but it’s affecting so many dogs’ health. It has minimal meat content (just
the legal limit) and the main ingredient (the first listed) is an un-named cereal. Dogs do not naturally eat cereal in the wild, the only carbohydrate they
would eat would be in the gut of the animal they had killed to eat. These cereals are what stick to your dogs teeth. The sugars, preservatives and colours
are what contribute to behavioural issues, allergy issues such as skin problems and G-I (Gastro-Intestinal) upset.
Here at Leiston Veterinary Clinic we see many dogs whose owners complain that their dog has some kind of behavioural problem, and we advise them
to change the diet and if they do not see an improvement with this, alongside some simple behavioural techniques then to come back two weeks later.
Do you know most of them, probably 90%, do not need to return for further help and most feel it’s the change in diet that has helped the most! Do you
know what meat derivatives mean on the packet? It means low quality protein, the less desirable parts of the animal, feet and guts. It is recommended
your dogs are fed a high quality protein in a much higher level than this food provides. Dogs are meat eaters at the end of the day. On average a good
quality diet for your dog should cost you about £30 upwards for a 7-10kg bag of food. Often cheaper food means you find you will pick up a lot more
faeces, as the dog cannot digest the products within them. You basically put it in one end and it comes out the other. Surely you don’t want to pick
up the food you paid for and have to put it in the bin? You also have to feed much higher amounts of this cheaper dog food, so although they seem
cheaper to buy at the start, your bag does not last as long as the more expensive food in the end. So you have to visit the supermarket and buy the
cheaper food more often, actually costing you more in the long term. On average £0.75 to £1.20 a day isn’t that expensive to feed your dog and that the
higher quality diet. During the whole of April we are offering 50% off routine dentals (de-scale and polish). Plus only £30 extra per tooth extraction.
Antibiotics and anti-inflammatories will be charged dependant on case and will be the responsibility of the owner to pay for. Did you know poor oral
hygiene in your pet can affect the internal organs in your pet? Every time it swallows, it’s swallowing bacteria which is absorbed into the blood stream
and this can cause damage internally. So stop the poor quality diets and get your dog/cat’s teeth cleaned up ready to start a higher quality diet. Make
your pet healthier. And...............................Smile.
We also have a new range of dental chews that are suitable for dogs, that are fat free and vegetable based. Even dogs that suffer with G.I upset or
conditions like pancreatitis can have them. They come in all sorts of weird and wonderful shapes from hedgehogs and crocodiles to toothbrushes. They
are much harder than a well known dental chew and have a lot less calories.
News from Framlingham and Saxmundham Cats Protection April 2015
Framlingham and Saxmundham Cats Protection’s fund raising
events started early this year with the opportunity to take over the
Halesworth pop-up shop, i-Chameleon for a couple of weeks. This
gave us the opportunity to sell much of the bric-a-brac and books
which have been donated over recent months. It proved to be very
popular; we were delighted to welcome so many people into the
shop and hope to have the opportunity again during the year. With
spring now upon us we shall be preparing for the inevitable calls
about unwanted and abandoned kittens which need to be rescued
and homed. Every year we encounter distressing cases of female
cats being dumped because they are pregnant and left to fend for
themselves; sometimes they all survive, sometimes the litter is found
without the mother and occasionally it is too late to save the litter. It
is a timely reminder that if you take on a young cat it is important that
you have it neutered. Ideally this should be done when the kitten
is around four months old. Neutering does not harm the cat and
has added advantages: it will be less likely to wander, stray, call (if
female), or spray (if male). The chance of contracting some infectious
cat diseases will be reduced, as will the likelihood of developing
mammary tumours (breast cancers), pyometra (life threatening womb
infections), testicular cancer, and many other illnesses. Male cats in
particular will improve in physical body condition and their urine will
smell less pungent! One final thought - one cat and her litter could
be responsible for 20,000 more kittens over five year!Catology: Cats,
unlike dogs do not have a ‘sweet tooth’. Most mammals experience
the taste of sugar as pleasant, but domestic cats and other felines
are indifferent to sweets as their taste receptors can’t detect sugar.
Cat owners may claim that their beloved pets love ice cream and
chocolate, but it’s the fat
that cats enjoy.
In fact,
chocolate can be toxic to
cats - so another good excuse
to keep those Easter eggs
for yourself. Featured cat
looking for a Home: .Mallow
is a spectacular long haired,
black and white beauty. She
is about four years old and
is very affectionate. Could
you offer her a home where
she will get lots of fuss and grooming to keep her looking at her
best? For more information about Mallow, other cats in our care,
neutering, events and how you can support us see our website: www.
framandsax.cats.org.uk; facebook: www.facebook.com/framsaxcats
or telephone 01728 723499
Since
2002
Indian Restaurant & Takeaway with 10% discount on collections, fully licenced & air conditioning,
friendly atmosphere & excellent service guaranteed - 104, high street, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4BZ
Winner of Tripadvisor Excellence Award 2014
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Leiston Observer 11
FAMILY HISTORY OPEN DAY DRAWS IN THE CROWDS
Another successful family history exhibition was held at the Long Shop Museum in Leiston on Saturday 7 March.
Despite competition from the lovely spring weather, over seventy folk came from as far afield as Norwich,
Yarmouth, Beccles, Ipswich, Stowmarket, and even Brightlingsea to see the Alde Valley Suffolk Family History
Group’s displays, and to try to trace their ancestry. Frank Huxley brought along his collection of old postcards
of the Leiston area, Jackie Linnell displayed her family tree, and Janet Huckle was constantly in demand with
her advice on how to date old photographs – several folk brought their own family photos along for her opinion
and identification. Visitors and members alike were seen trawling through surveys of graveyards seeking their
forebears, while others looked for war heroes in the Group’s comprehensive collection of books about local
war memorials. The computers were busy with visitors searching the genealogy websites, and there was much
interest in the Leiston Great War Memorial Book which members of the Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group
had researched and produced. And all this was against the backdrop of the Long Shop’s own splendid WW1
exhibition. The Long Shop Volunteers were kept busy providing drinks and delicious homemade soup, and
donations raised nearly £120 for Long Shop Museum funds.
The Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group meets at Leiston Community Centre at 7.30pm on the 3rd Monday
of the month, and the Group’s Research Centre in the Old Council Chamber in Leiston is free to members and
non-members from 10 to 12 on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays.
For full details of the Group see: http://aldevalleyfamilyhistorygroup.onesuffolk.net/
OUR LOCAL LONDON MARATHON RUNNER
You may well be used to
seeing Beth Dunthorne
round and about Leiston
delivering the post but
now Leiston Post lady
Beth, has recently taken
up the epic challenge
of running the London
Marathon on the 26th
of April for the Stroke
Association. She got
her place through Royal
Mail, who have chosen
the Stroke Association as
their charity of the year.
Having lost 2 close family
members to Strokes,
Beth decided that this year was THE year and put herself forward
to run. Having never done anything like this before, the challenge
was enormous but now Beth is up to 16 mile runs and relishing the
challenge. “It’s been hard work to motivate yourself to go for a run
after a full day at work but now it’s just become second nature. I just
pop my trainers on and off I go.”
Mail, so if you would like to help Beth reach her target then please
visit her “sponsor me” page at www.sponsorme.co.uk/Bethdunthorne/
london-marathon-2015.aspx or pop into the Leiston Delivery office
on Sizewell Road between 11.00-13.00 Monday-Saturday, where
there is a sponsor form waiting. Beth, 33 lives in Leiston and is out
running 4-5 times a week, if you see her, give her a wave or some
encouragement to propel her along, it really will help.
Beth’s target is £2000 and all sponsorship will be doubled by Royal
Second & Fifth Sunday of the Month
St Margaret’s
Church
Welcomes You
Church Services
First Sunday of the Month
9.00 Holy Communion Service
A traditional service using Common Worship
10.30 Family Praise and Worship Service
An all age informal service for the whole family.
Praising the Lord through drama, readings and music.
10.00 Parish Eucharist Service
Third Sunday of the Month
10.00 ‘Welcome to the table’ Family Communion
Valerie will design, produce and erect that special
memorial truly reflecting the life of your loved one
crafted at her well established local workshop
Give her a call on freephone
A new simple Family Communion Service where all are welcome to the table
Fourth Sunday of the Month
10.00 Parish Eucharist Service
6.30 Community Healing Service
Listen to the healing word of God through Prayer
Resumes Sunday 26th April
for a free brochure & price list or to arrange a meeting
email: val@valerieleverett.co.uk
Unit 3a, Farnham Industrial Estate, Farnham,
Where to Stay Where to Eat
Saxmundham. Suffolk. IP17 1JZ
www.valerieleverett.co.uk
12 Leiston Observer
Wednesday mid-week Holy Communion
10.00 Holy Communion Service
Resumes Wednesday 22nd April
Who to Use find your service on www.leistonobserver.com
The Vicarage, Church Rd, Leiston 01728 561149 rev.phillips-last@sky.com
mobile: 07411 747568
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HERITAGE COAST RUN/WALK
The Rotary Club of Saxmundham and District
The 33rd Heritage Coast Run/Walk will once
again take place from Thorpeness playing fields
on Sunday May 3rd 2015. Participants can run
or walk a full Marathon or Half Marathon and
there is a 6 mile fun run/walk for those who
are not quite as able. The route takes the runners
and walkers through a designated Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty up along the
coast to Minsmere and back through woodland
making the experience truly enjoyable. There is
large refreshment tent organised by the ladies of
Saxmundham Inner Wheel providing delicious
coffee and bacon rolls for early starters and
refreshments throughout the day. The event is in
its 33rd year and has raised tens of thousands
over the years for worthy causes . This year
the main chosen charity for support is EAST
SUFFOLK FOOD BANK. The event in 2014 was
an enormous success raising in excess of £10,000
for Macmillan and other charities. It normally
attracts close to 700 participants including local
families and friends year after year and whilst
a large proportion come from the Eastern
Counties some come from much further afield.
It is a family occasion and a dog friendly event
but serious runners from all over the country
usually turn up. 2014 had a very unusual
happening - Allan Smalls and Paul Reynolds
crossed the finish line together in a tremendous
sporting gesture, both simultaneously breaking
the course record with a time each of 2hrs 54
minutes exactly. Ten minutes faster than last
years record breaking time of 3 hrs 4 minutes.
Allan Smalls from Colchester has won the
event 5 times in the past. The ladies event was
won by Helen Miller in 4 Hours 12 minutes
with runner up Frances Cooke in a time of 4
hrs 15mins. Runners and Walkers are able to
‘CLASSICS, CRAFTS AND CAKES’
RETURNS FOR 2015
Would you like to book a craft stall, show your vintage or classic car or sell
antiques or vintage items? Leiston Works Railway in association with the
Leiston Enterprise Centre would like to hear from you for their ‘Classic,
Crafts and Cakes’ event on Saturday 20th June.
Tel Stephen 01728 831902 or Marilyn 01728 833122
“Hold a Fish and Chip Supper to help spinal
cord injured people rebuild lives after injury”
Great British Fish and Chip Supper – Friday 15th May 2015
Want to eat Fish and Chips, while raising money for charity? Hold a fish and
chip supper on Friday 15th May 2015 whilst raising awareness of spinal cord
injury and supporting SIA’s vital services. You can hold a fish and chip supper
in your own home, at work or hold a larger supper at your local community
centre.
SIA will provide a fundraising pack containing hints and tips, recipes,
invitations and donation envelopes. By inviting 8 friends and asking them
to donate an additional £5.00 means you will raise at least £40.00 from your
supper but we will also give you additional fundraising ideas to raise even
more money for SIA.
In 2015 we want to make the batter matter and raise £40,000 from everyone
holding suppers. Last year we raised £20,000 from the suppers. The money
raised from the suppers will help the Spinal Injuries Association offer support
to individuals who become paralysed and their families, from the moment a
spinal injury occurs, and for the rest of their lives by providing services and
publications which enable and encourage paralysed people to rebuild lives
after spinal cord injury.
Every year in the UK over 1,000 people experience a spinal cord injury and
there are an estimated 40,000 spinal cord injured people in the UK alone.
Community Fundraising Manager, Elizabeth Wright, says, “The Fish and
Chip Supper is a wonderful opportunity for a great evening with friends and
family. We are also encouraging people who work to hold a Fish and Chip
Lunch in their work places to raise even more funds. You may be even a local
community group wanting to run a fun evening with your group.
For more information or request a fundraising pack call Elizabeth Wright
on 0845 071 4350 or email fundraising@siafishandchips.co.uk or visit www.
siafishandchips.co.uk
set up fundraising pages to help raise money
for the Suffolk Food Bank on the website BT
Mydonate by searching under charities for
Saxmundham Rotary Club and clicking on the
event. All money coming to the club via this
means will be donated mainly to Suffolk Food
Bank with smaller amounts to local charities
and International humanitarian and disaster
relief e.g. Hurricane Pam. Anyone wishing to
help as a marshall or in any other capacity please
get in touch asap. Parking is free on the day and
in addition to refreshments there is usually a
licensed bar and toilet and shower facilites for
runners. More details and entry packs can be
found on the website or go direct to http://www.
saxmundhamrotary.org.uk/marathon.htm. To
start fundraising go to https://mydonate.bt.com/
events/heritage33/205331
Come along to your...
Community
Choir
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lov ong
ou e al
y
If
om the
,c
n
ing oin i
s
to nd j un!
f
a
Love t
Comm o Sing
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sing li
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in 3 &
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4 part
usic
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Weekly Rehearsals – 7:30pm till 9:30pm
Orford - Mondays
Bart’s Hall, Broad Street, IP12 2NQ
Leiston - Wednesdays
United Church, High Street, IP16 4EL
Rendlesham - Thursdays
St Felix Church, Walnut Tree Avenue, IP12 2GG
Check out our website for all the latest info:
lovetosing.onesuffolk.net
Rachael
01394 420486
@love2singchoir
love2singchoir@gmail.com
Cane it! Cottage Craft
TEL: 01502 478470
Hand-woven cane seating repairs.
Chairs with caned seats occasionally available.
Please call to see if I can help
KEEPING A TRADITIONAL CRAFT ALIVE
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Leiston Observer 15
OUT AND ABOUT IN & AROUND
If you have any upcoming events please send them to Louise and we will try our best to get
them into the magazine. louisegissing@boostsuffolk.com
1ST
MONDAY
OF MONTH
BINGO
7.30PM
3RD
MONDAY
OF MONTH
QUIZ NIGHT
7.30PM
SIZEWELL SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB
SIZEWELL SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB
Up to five people per team. £3 each.
Please bring a draw prize. Raising funds
for the Childrens’ Playground.
07923 530821 or 07415 770078. Email:
lesfanatics.presentimental@gmail.com.
Venue Address: Snape Village Hall, Church
Road, Snape, Saxmundham, Suffolk. IP17
1SX
APRIL WINE AND FOOD PAIRING
17TH EVENING WESTLETON
CROWN
LIVE MUSIC IN LOUNGE BAR
SIZEWELL SPORTS & SOCIAL
CLUB. FREE ENTRY
£34 per person, including wine and the
menu. Everich Wines will be hosting the
evening and talking through each wine,
discussing why it has been chosen to
complement each dish
APRIL CARLTON ARMS, CARLTON
11TH MERES COUNTRY PARK.
APRIL ALDE VALLEY SUFFOLK
20TH FAMILY HISTORY GROUP
APRIL BEACH CLEAN @ DUNWICH
11TH HEATH 11AM - 1PM
APRIL THE EVERYMAN FOLK CLUB
24TH PRESENTS ‘ARTISAN’. THE
LAST
SATURDAY
OF MONTH
7PM LIVE MUSIC
12 NOON - 2PM
Come and help us look after our
precious coast by collecting litter dropped
or washed up on the beach. Litter pickers
and bags provided, please bring thick
gloves. 11am - 1pm. Dress according to
weather and suitable for the activities
being undertaken. Sturdy shoes advisable
for walking activities. Please bring thick
gloves.Booking Not Needed. Normal
Admission Charges Apply. Dogs on leads
welcome. Suitable for children
APRIL CONCERT AT ST. ANDREWS
11TH CHURCH, ALDRINGHAM.
3PM
A concert is to be given by the St. Mary’s
Hand Bell Ringers in St. Andrew’s Church,
Aldringham. There will be on opportunity
for the audience to “have a go”. A retiring
collection will be taken for the Church
Fabric Fund. Light refreshments will be
served after the concert.
APRIL FLEA MARKET 10AM - 4PM
12TH WESTLETON VILLAGE HALL
An amazing array of authentic,
attractive and amusing artefacts for you
to acquire. Something for everyone!
Admission 50p (under 16’s free)Tel: 01728
648277
APRIL THE AFFAIR (COMEDY
17TH THEATRE) 7:30PM. SNAPE
VILLAGE HALL.
AGM
RIVERSIDE CENTRE 8PM
Hilary Spencer,Jacey Bedford & Brian
Bedford return to the Everyman as part
of their Artisan 2015 Reunion Tour. With
powerful voices and lush harmonies, they
sing their hearts out performing Brian’s
songs of inspiration, enlightenment,
dreams, fears & hopes – interspersed
with incisive social commentary and
comic timing. An evening of exceptional
contemporary close-harmony singing
APRIL ‘HANDLE WITH CARE’
25TH SIZEWELL SPORTS & SOCIAL
CLUB 8PM
In the lounge bar. FREE ENTRY. All
welcome. Open till 1 am.
APRIL ALL-PARTY EVENT
28TH FRIENDS MEETING HOUSE
7.30PM
The Leiston & District Branch of the
Labour Party will be holding an allparty event on Tuesday 28th April at
the Friends Meeting House in Waterloo
Avenue, Leiston, to which all members
of the public are invited. Speakers at
this meeting will be Steven Javes, a
representative of Orwell Housing,
and Nick Mayo of Leiston Citizens
Advice Bureau, who will be available
to answer any questions and offer
advice concerning housing issues. The
evening will commence at 7.30pm and
refreshments will be served.
Leiston
MAY
1ST
SIZEWELL SPORTS & SOCIAL
CLUB. OPEN DISCO
MAY
2-3
SUMMER BEER FESTIVAL
THE SHIP AND DUNWICH
MAY
9-31
SUFFOLK WALKING FESTIVAL
Start your summer with our
beer festival at The Ship at Dunwich on
Saturday and Sunday 2nd and 3rd May
2015. It promises to be a great day with
live music, craft stalls and plenty of beer
from our favourite local breweries. Also to
make sure you won’t go hungry we will be
serving food all day. Everyone is welcome
We are fast approaching that time
of year again when the air will start
warming up, the bluebells will be
blooming and the Suffolk countryside will be
enticing us to dig out our walking boots and
start exploring. What better way to do this than
to join in the annual Suffolk Walking Festival.
There are far too many walks to list here, so
please visit www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk
to look at the programme and to book your
tickets. You can also pick up a brochure from
you local tourist information centre. We hope
you will be inspired to join in this fun and
sociable festival to enjoy Suffolk at its very best.
Easter Workshops
At CAROLYN’S
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Holiday sessions for children age
8-14
Adults welcome to accompany
their children
Skill Level: Beginners
No previous experience necessary
Small groups of up to 4 children
£12.50 – all materials included
Tues 7th 1-3pm Design a
Drawstring Bag
Thurs 9th 1-3pm Creative Cushion
Covers
Book early to avoid disappointment!
Call Fi on 07515437041 or pop into
the shop to book your places.
9 High St
A fantastically funny comedy about a man
Leiston
who wants to pop the question but
things
Where
to Stay Where to Eat Who to Use find your service IP164EL
on www.leistonobserver.com
keep getting in the way! Ticket Price:
£9 & £7 concs. Contact: Amy or Sam:
16 Leiston Observer
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Hunting for John Hunter
I have for some years now been tracing my family
history. But I have one missing link; My Grandfather
John Hunter. I am fortunate enough to have a
picture of him found amongst my Grandmother’s
possessions in an envelope marked 1937,
although I have a suspicion the photograph might
be earlier. My Mother was born in March 1922 and
was illegitimate. My Grandmother took him to court
for maintenance and from the court records he is
recorded as an Ex Farm Bailiff living in Loddon
Ingloss. Norfolk. Electoral Rolls in autumn 1922
showed him living at Loddon Ingloss C/O Mrs
Forder. But I have no other information on him. I
have narrowed the search down to 3 possibilities,
the one I am interested in here is John Hunter
who was born in Knodishall, Suffolk in 1894. He
married an Emily Good in 1923 and they had 2
daughters Doreen & Sylvia. Doreen married an
Arthur Quantrill and they had a daughter Gillian.
Sylvia married an Alan Hammond and they had 3
daughters Ruth, Mary & Jane. John Hunter served
in the RAMC in WW1 as did my Grandmothers
brother, a tentative link but a link. I realise this
might be a skeleton in the cupboard for someone,
but what I need is to either identify him or eliminate
him, so does anyone recognise the John Hunter
in the photograph or know of a link i.e. was the
John Hunter in Knodishall ever a Farm Bailiff? If
you have any information I would be grateful if you
can contact me by email on peterjosling@hotmail.
com. on Mobile phone 07530172063 or by post at
20 Cluny Way. Arlesey. Beds. SG15 6ZB.
Peter Josling.
Quaker Equality Week
Quaker Equality Week ran from 6th to 15th March this year, and Quaker organisations all round the country marked it in different ways, with events,
discussion groups, vigils and film showings. We live in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, but also one of the most unequal. This is the root
of many social ills, for everyone, not just the poor, and sadly it is increasing. Food banks and other charitable responses are wonderful; but is this the
best way to actually change things? There is much that the next government, whatever its composition, could do to make our society a more equal
one. To find out how Quakers have demonstrated their commitment to equality in the past, and what they believe could be done now, visit the website
www.quaker.org.uk and search for ‘Economic Inequality: a Quaker Concern’.
Leiston Quakers meet every Sunday morning at 10.30 a.m. at the Meeting House, Waterloo Avenue, Leiston IP16 4HE. Everyone is welcome.
Leiston Library temporary closure for refurbishment
Leiston Library will be closing temporarily for three weeks to allow extensive refurbishment and improvement works to take place. The library will close
from Monday 13 April and re-open on Tuesday 5 May. The library is being completely redecorated with new carpets and shelving being fitted thanks to
funding from Leiston Sizewell Community Benefit Fund and the Enabling Communities Fund. Suffolk Libraries apologises for any inconvenience whilst
the library is closed.
Any loans due back during the closure will have their due dates automatically amended and customers can still drop off books. Customers can also visit
Saxmundham, Aldeburgh and Southwold libraries or use the mobile library service whilst the library is closed. The Saxmundham Mobile Library (Route
8) will be visiting the following stops in the Leiston area on Friday 17 April which regular library customers may find useful:
•
Thorpeness Almshouses 0940-0955
•
Aldringham Church 1000-1015
•
•
Aldringham Mill Hill 1045-1100
•
Knodishall Mission Room 1105-1135
•
•
Snape Village hall 1210-1235
•
Sudbourne Bus shelter 1245-1300
•
•
Orford Market Square 1430-1545
Customers can also download eBooks and renew and request items via the Suffolk Libraries website.
Aldringham Ogilvie Homes 1020-1040
Friston Bus shelter 1145-1200
Orford Baron’s Meadow 1405-1425
Leiston Football Club News
The end of season is fast approaching and at the time
of reading these notes, around four weeks remain.
The Blues continue to have the play offs in their
minds although like other clubs, can’t seem to find
consistency to secure what appears to be the final play
off spot available. The remaining few games to the
season include games against two fellow challengers
so it looks like being an exciting finale to all clubs
involved. March has seen a productive month with
the defeat at Billericay Town towards the end of the
month,the first defeat in six games. A similar good
run in April could see the target of a play off place
secured. The Reserves continue to struggle (result
wise) in their opening season in the Thurlow Nunn
Division One but performances have deserved better.
The first season was always a fact finding mission so
hopefully next season a lot more lessons will have
been learned. The Veterans continue to have a fine
season and lead the way in their division and deserve
some silverware for their efforts. Likewise the U15’s
who have had a great year. Good runs in the County
Forthcoming April home fixtures;
and League Cups have gone hand in hand with
Sat 11 (Res) v March Town, Sun 12 (Vets) v
challenging for the league title. Let’s hope they too
end the season with some silverware. Off the field
Woodbridge Town, Sat 18 v Canvey Island and
(U15) v Sporting, Sat 25 (Res) v Kings Lynn Reserves
the club held a very successful Sportsman’s Evening
last month (our seventh
annual) with former
Chelsea
legend
Ron
‘Chopper’ Harris our guest
speaker. Thanks to all for
attending and for those
that worked tirelessly
to arrange and make
the evening a success. A
great evening with fine
food, entertainment and
laughter aplenty. Make
sure you watch out for
the next date so you don’t
For a Free Quotation please contact Adam on
miss out!
ALDE FENCING
Agricultural, Domestic, Commercial,
Repairs & Gates
01728 454296 | 07896 766719
adamblowers@btinternet.com
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Leiston Observer 17
Bright Sparks Pantomime
Have you ever enjoyed one of the brilliant
pantomimes at Leiston Film Theatre and
wondered what it would be like to be part of
this popular annual event? Well, Leiston’s
acclaimed Bright Sparks Theatre Group
are looking for enthusiastic new members
to join their professional am-dram cast
and crew for their next pantomime, Mother
Goose, which appears on stage at Leiston
Film Theatre between the 7th and 10th
January 2016.
Rare pantomime auditions for adults and
children will be held at Leiston Film Theatre
on Sunday 17th May. Whether you’d like to
appear on stage or simply help out behind
the scenes, the group would love to hear
from anyone who feels able to offer a
helping hand and become part their friendly
team.
Experience is not essential, but members
do need to commit to attending the
weekly rehearsals between October and
December and the seven performances in
January.
as if they’ve been in Pantoland for years –
some of us have!” she said.
With over 700 tickets already sold for
Mother Goose, the pantomime is already in
full production and promises to be another
success for the established group, who
have been entertaining the crowds since
1982 and this outing, will be their 11th
pantomime outing on to the Leiston Film
Theatre stage.
Bright Sparks Chairman, Teresa Webster,
assures a warm welcome to all those
auditioning. “It’s always a little daunting
taking the first step into Pantoland, but
Bright Sparks is like a big panto family and
all newcomers are made to feel at home
and as the rehearsals progress, they feel
Anyone interested in getting themselves
involved with the group should contact
Wayne Burns at Leiston Film Theatre
on 01728 830549, by email: info@
leistonfilmtheatre.co.uk, or message the
group on Facebook via the Bright Sparks
Panto page.
FROM YOUR COUNTY COUNCILLOR…
Last month I promised to write about the County Council’s
budget but, because we are now in the period before the
elections on 7th May, I am restricted in what I am allowed to say
in the run-up to both the General Election, the election for two
Councillors to Suffolk Coastal District Council for Leiston Ward
(which also includes the villages of Theberton and Middleton)
and the election of the whole of Leiston Town Council. I want
to pay tribute to all out-going Councillors who have, without
exception, worked hard for the best interests of Leiston and all
those who live and work here. I have seen at close quarters how
sincere they have been in trying to do the right things for Leiston
and they deserve the thanks of the whole community.
their office – just ask for Electoral Registration. My work as your
County Councillor continues throughout the campaign period
and if you have need to contact me please do so as normal.
Richard Smith, MVO
01728 602714
richard.smith@suffolk.gov.uk
Equally I am sure that all those putting their names forward
either for election for the first time or for re-election are doing
so for the good of the town and they will believe, as I do, that
Leiston is a special place which is well worth representing and
will try to help ensure it becomes an even better town in years
to come. Some people will choose not to vote; that is part of the
democratic freedom we enjoy. But I would encourage everyone
to think about the issues, be they national, district-wide or
local, and to exercise your right to vote for those who you think
JRBrepresent
1/8 Ad.pdfLeiston
1
23/02/2015
10:20
will
best. If you
are not likely to be around
on 7th May it is not yet too late to apply for a postal vote. A
simple application form is available from the District Council in
Woodbridge and can be requested by telephoning or e-mailing
The next issue will be published on Tuesday 5th May,
copy deadline is Friday 24th April
but the earlier the better to ensure inclusion.
This issue was published and printed by Leiston Press.
Leiston Observer is your free local paper, 2000 copies are
printed every month. We distribute the magazines on a door
to door service.
Contacts/Advertisers:
Annie Barnes at Leiston Press, Unit 1b Masterlord Industrial
Estate, Station Road, Leiston, IP16 4JD
advertising@leistonobserver.com.
Listings, Reports and Editorial
should be sent to Louise Gissing,
editor@leistonobserver.com
Designed by Annie Barnes at Leiston Press, Unit 1b
Masterlord Industrial Estate, Station Road, Leiston, IP16 4JD
annie@leistonpress.com.
Distributed by Door 2 Door Leafleting 01473 43 42 41
Reports, press releases; letters and other editorial
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editor’s discretion.
Disclaimer: Any opinions or comments expressed in these
pages are solely those of their authors and do not necessarily
reflect the views of the Leiston Observer itself or Leiston
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18 Leiston Observer
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Leiston Veterinary Clinic Ltd
Marina Goodchild BVSc MRCVS
1D Eastlands Road, LEISTON, SUFFOLK IP16 4LL
Telephone: (01728) 833566
Fax: (01728) 833478
www.leistonvets.co.uk
Care, reassurance and support...
...when you need it most
Surgery Hours Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm Saturday 9am - 11am
Consultations by Appointment - 24 Hour Emergency Service
The Amber Shop & Museum
Southwold
Your Local Amber & Pearl Specialist
Extensive Jewellery Repair Service
Fully Qualified Staff
01502 723394
www.ambershop.co.uk
For All Your uPVC Double Glazing and Glass Requirements
01728 833517 vinny_sufc@tiscali.co.uk
43 Sizewell Rd
Leiston
01728 830670
We’re available 24 hours a day
eastofengland.coop/funerals
Unit 5c Eastlands Ind. Est. Leiston
The
A warm welcome to
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