Communit y News
TREATMENTS OFFERED
INCLUDE:
New patient exam £80 (Denplan £40)
Routine exam £50 (Denplan - included)
Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)
White fillings from £125 (Denplan £100)
New patient exam £80 (Denplan £40)
Routine exam £50 (Denplan - included)
Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)
Chrome dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)
Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)
Zirconia implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)
Root canal treatment from £350 (Denplan £280)
Full mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236)
Dr. Christopher J Kelly GDC: 82366 BDS (2003, University of Sheffield)
Victoria Hough
GDC: 200727 FDSC (with distinction) RDN RDH (University of Essex 2021)
PROVIDING AFFORDABLE QUALITY WITH COMPASSION AND CARE
Hygienist: £60 for 30 minutes (Denplan - included)
White fillings from £125 (Denplan £100)
Acrylic dentures from £495 (Denplan £396)
Chrome dentures from £750 (Denplan £600)
Zirconia crowns £595 (Denplan £476)
Zirconia implant crowns £995 (Denplan £796)
Root canal treatment from £350 (Denplan £280) Full mouth whitening £295 (Denplan £236)
The Beccles Diamond Jubilee Aid-in-Sickness Fund was set up in 1897 (for Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee). The Fund provides grants "for the benefit of needy, sick or infirm persons in the town of Beccles".
Requests for support for people of any age will be considered, provided that they live in Beccles. There is no complicated application form.
Recent grants have included a custom-made wheelchair for a
child and 'smart glasses' that use technology to help an adult who's been blind from birth. To apply for a grant, or to find out about eligibility, please contact the Clerk, Paul Cunningham, at Beccles Town Hall by calling: 01502 712109, emailing: paul.cunningham@ becclestowncouncil.gov.uk, or writing to: The Diamond Jubilee Aid-in-Sickness Fund, Town Hall, The Walk, Beccles NR34 9AJ.
Autumn at Bungay Primary School
Beccles Society of Artists
Representational artist Jim Power visited the Beccles Society of Artists this month and demonstrated his landscape oil painting technique.
In his early days as an artist, Jim was influenced by Munnings and Seago and also teaches at the Munnings Museum.
Jim emphasised the importance of sectioning the page, determining the focal point and establishing strong horizon and landscape lines. He discussed the use of colour and the interaction between cool and warm colours demonstrating how they could be used to create
depth, balance and a sense of atmosphere within the landscape and also spoke about the varying drying qualities of the different pigments and how they can affect layering and timing during the painting process. Also, how the choice of an underpainting tone can subtly influence the colour relationships and emotional atmosphere of the final work. Overall, a most engaging and interesting demonstration.
Our 'Picture of the month' is by John Patchett and can be seen in the cabinet in New Market. Our next meeting on November 5th is our AGM at the Waveney Centre.
Agnes with hedgehog box
Beccles Twinning trip to Petit-Couronne
29 representatives of Beccles have just returned from a fiveday trip to Petit-Couronne and all were overwhelmed by the hospitality that they received from their twin town.
Some were visiting old friends and some were visiting for the first time. All were making new connections and building new relationships at home and abroad.
With a day spent visiting a variety of places of interest across the region, in the company of their hosts they also went on a group visit to the Immersive Viking centre in Rouen and took part in the town's annual Autumn Fair.
Embracing the apple theme with handmade products, mincemeat, crochet apple key rings and chocolate supplied by Harris &
Barry with medal
James - All made in Beccles.
Beccles Mayor, Councillor Barry Darch was among the visitors on the trip and received the Médaille d' honneur of PetitCouronne town on behalf of Beccles from Deputy Mayor Mme Agnes Scott.
In recognition of the efforts being made by both towns to address climate change and increase biodiversity, a hedgehog box made by Beccles Mens Shed was presented to Petit-Couronne, along with a signed copy of 'An A-Z of Beccles' for their library. There followed a Soirée Guinguette, singing along to an accordionist, and enjoying some fine food and wine before ending the evening with a tense but very funny game of 'Gruyère', which resulted in Beccles being declared the winners of the coveted 'Twinning Tray', which was originally donated by the Beccles & Bungay Journal in 1983.
For more information about Twinning in Beccles, which is open to all who live or work in Beccles and the surrounding area or are otherwise associated with the town, please contact: twinning.beccles@gmail.com
The Fox & Hounds (in Ravensmere, Beccles) has been closed since August 2024.
Since that time, a small team of people have been working hard to re-open and save this facility for the benefit of the whole community and visitors.
In the first few days of October, the committee announced the Function Room and Bar will reopen on the weekend of October 24th and has invited everyone to join them for a drink.
The function room has a stage and seating for 80 people and is great space for many events, such as bingo, live music and meetings. It can be hired with or without the bar even on Fridays and Saturdays. It also has a room set aside for catering.
"The function room especially has been greatly missed, but we have made great progress to make it usable again, and we're now taking bookings on our website: foxandhoundsbeccles.co.uk/ booking" - Chris Cox (Secretary). Share Offer:
A share offer is also in progress
to increase membership and help the committee continue to improve the Fox. A share prospectus is available to download on the website ( foxandhoundsbeccles.co.uk ) where you can also purchase shares, in a similar manner to the Locks Inn, at Geldeston.
"We need people to invest with us so that we can keep up the good work" said Jena Mason (Membership Secretary). "We'd love to hear your stories, so they could be added to our website and Facebook group to keep as scrapbook of memories", she added.
Front Bar:
The front bar remains closed until further roof repairs and safety requirements can be made.
Open:
The function room and bar will be open Friday 24th, Saturday and Sunday 3pm-9pm.
The Fox and Hounds is a Community Benefit Society registered with the FCA R022788 and is working closely with the Plunkett Foundation.
Beccles
Planning Permission approved for Gorleston hospice building
facility to be developed by St. Elizabeth Hospice in Gorleston.
On September 11th, planning permission was granted by Great Yarmouth Borough Council for the project which will utilise a seven-acre site previously secured by East Coast Hospice, with whom St. Elizabeth Hospice merged in 2023.
This announcement follows St. Elizabeth Hospice's June 2025 planning variation application to build a community hospice. The
and an inpatient unit with up to 16 beds. Judi Newman, St. Elizabeth Hospice Chief Executive Officer, said: "We're delighted that our planning application has been approved. This news is a real landmark moment and we can now move forward with making our vision for a community hospice a reality for the Great Yarmouth and Waveney community. Once more, we
our thanks to the local community and stakeholders whose insights have shaped our plans. Together, we are working towards greater parity in palliative and end-of-life care for the area."
The project builds on the dedication and vision of those who founded East Coast Hospice and will also see St. Elizabeth Hospice partnering with the Louise Hamilton Trust, as part of a united approach to deliver high-quality end-of-life services for the local community.
Since April 2019, St. Elizabeth Hospice has cared for more than 6,000 patients and their families in Great Yarmouth and Waveney, through their healthcare partnership with East Coast Community Healthcare (ECCH).
The development of the community hospice facility will build upon and align with the hospice's existing services in the area, with construction hoped to commence in 2026 and estimated to take up to two years for completion.
The need for a hospice building, serving the communities of Great Yarmouth and Waveney, can be seen via population trend research by the Office of National Statistics, highlighting how demand for
palliative care will increase by 35% by 2040. Currently, only 2.1% of residents in Norfolk and Waveney die in a hospice - lower than the national average of 4.4% (PopNat Hospice UK 2024). The hospice building will be operated by St. Elizabeth Hospice and will stand as a tribute to all who have contributed to making the project a reality. St. Elizabeth Hospice will continue to engage with key stakeholders and the local community, as the charity further develops its plans and considers important decisions, such as the naming of the site and facilities.
To find out more or to donate towards St. Elizabeth Hospice's services in Great Yarmouth and Waveney, please visit - www. stelizabethhospice.org.uk/ gorlestonhospice
To view the planning application please visit: www. shorturl.at/JwBtJ (or scan the QR code)
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Christmas in the Park
Beyond the Big Top, visitors can explore the Festive Market, filled
with local artisans, craft stalls, and delicious street food. Expect handmade gifts, decorations, sweet treats, and warming winter drinks, alongside live music, Christmas workshops, and family activities including gingerbread making and meet-and-greets with festive characters. Not forgetting your chance to meet the Reindeer. Tickets start from £10 per adult with optional circus addon seats at £12.50. Pre-booking is recommended as capacity is limited for the Circus Show. Full details and booking are available at:christmasintheparksuffolk. co.uk
"We're so excited to bring a full-scale Christmas Circus to Henham this year," said event organiser Alan Bultitude. "It's going to be a magical, familyfriendly celebration of everything we love about Christmas in Suffolk."
Follow the latest updates at: facebook.com/ christmasintheparksuffolk
Blyth Valley & Southwold Wildlife Group
Worlingham and Carlton Marshes
The Blyth Valley and Southwold SWT Wildlife Group welcomed Vicky Eyles, Wilder Community Officer for the Suffolk Wildlife Trust, who gave an update on Worlingham and Carlton Marshes.
Carlton Marshes, now a thriving reserve with diverse habitats and excellent visitor facilities, was farmland until the 1970s. Since then, the Trust has steadily restored and expanded it, aiming to create a wildlife corridor along the River Waveney linking Castle and Worlingham Marshes.
Peto's Marsh, a major recent addition funded with help from the Heritage Fund, has become a haven for overwintering wildfowl and breeding species, with further smaller parcels of land continuing to be added.
Worlingham Marsh is very different. It has always been a wild area, and so the Trust has been able to enhance what is already there. There is limited public access to the Marsh while improvements to habitat are carried out, but greater access will be possible in the future. We watched and enjoyed some fascinating footage from trail cams, a taste of what we will find there.
Vicky also spoke about the wide range of Outreach work she is involved in, from visiting schools, to setting up volunteers work teams, surveys, local events, community wildlife gardens, and discovery walks. Local farmers are often interested in, and support, Trust initiatives, and she offers guidance, and resources, such as relevant books, and the loan of trail cams. These can give wonderful footage of fox or badger families, for example, which can encourage landowners to enjoy what their land supports. It was fascinating to learn so much about two of our nearest reserves, and we left with the feeling that we will visit more often, and explore further.
Our next meeting is on Thursday, November 13th, at 7.30 at the Southwold Arts Centre, IP18 6JP. Ian Bedford will talk about 'The Trouble Without Wasps'. The cost is £5 to include refreshments. Under 25's are free, and all are welcome. Contact us at: swtblythvalley@gmail.com
Penny Mansfield
Use code “Community25” for 10% o all tickets when booking online
Your festive table awaits!
November is just around the corner, the nights are drawing in and, following a relatively mild start to autumn, the woolly jumpers and scarves are back out as the temperature begins to drop. This all means only one thing... Christmas is not too far away!
One of the best things about this time of year has to be the opportunity to get together with family, friends, neighbours and colleagues, putting on your party outfit and enjoying some good food and a glass or two of your
favourite tipple. Throughout December, our local pubs, restaurants, cafés and hotels will be running delicious festive menus, special dishes and themed nights. What better excuse do you need to get your group together and have a night out. We are fortunate to have lots of great establishments in our area so you will not be short of places to go where you can enjoy great food and drink and proper hospitality. With that in mind, have a look at the businesses in this edition of the Community
News and book early to ensure you get the date and time you want, this is especially important for larger groups. So, get the group chat going to find a date you can all make, and start having those conversations
with your friends and family about whether you are booking your favourite pub or fancy trying a new restaurant. It's never too early to start planning your season of festive celebrations!
WE ARE OPEN CHRISTMAS
We can now offer the pub for private hire Ideal for Christmas Parties & festive get togethers 01502 713114 www.theringsfieldtavern.co.uk Cromwell Road, Ringsfield, Beccles, NR34 8LR
and
MAIN COURSES
• Roast Norfolk Turkey (GF) with chestnut and sausage meat stuffing, pigs in blankets
• Nut Roast (VGA) (GF)
(both of the above dishes are served with roast potatoes, parsnips, carrots, brussel sprouts with sage butter, broccoli, braised red cabbage and gravy)
• Pan-Roasted Fillet of Cod with a Crayfish, Lime and Ginger Butter (GF) (Vg) served with new potatoes, medley of green vegetables
• Slow Cooked Beef Goulash (GF) served with creamed potatoes, medley of green vegetables
• Mediterranean Vegetable Lasagne (V) served with cherry tomato, olive, cucumber and rocket salad
DESSERTS
• Black Forest Roulade (GF)
chocolate sponge rolled and filled with kirsch cherries and fresh cream, drizzled with cherry coulis and dark chocolate shavings
• Warm Sticky Toffee Pudding (GF) served with salted toffee sauce and vanilla ice-cream
• Lemon Posset(GF) blueberry compôte and meringue pieces
• Traditional Christmas Pudding (VG) with dairy-free brandy butter ice-cream
• Coffee & Chocolate Mints 2 courses & coffee £25.50pp
Mandatory identity checks are coming to Companies House
If you're a company director or hold significant control over a business, there's an important new requirement you need to prepare for.
Earlier this year, Companies House introduced a voluntary identity verification process.
Now, as part of the wider reform under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, the process is about to become mandatory.
Starting from November 18th 2025, anyone looking to set up a company or become a director will need to verify their identity before they can be appointed. If you're already listed as a Director, you'll be asked to complete verification when you file your next confirmation statement after the deadline - filing ahead of the 18th November 2025 deadline may give you more flexibility.
If you're a person with significant control (PSC) but not a Director, the deadlines are staggered over a 12 month window from 18th November
2025 depending on your birth month. PSC's are advised to check their individual deadline on the Companies House website.
It might sound like a big change, but the good news is that the process is designed to be simple and quick. Most people will be able to verify online using their smartphone by just taking a photo of your face and your ID, and facial recognition software does the rest. If you'd rather not go digital, you can head to a participating post office or an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) and verify in person.
Once you're verified, Companies House will issue you an 11-digit personal verification code. This code will be your key for future filings, so do keep it safe!
The move is all about improving transparency and trust in the UK's corporate register. With up to seven-million people expected to go through the process over the next year,
it's a significant step forward in making company information more reliable and secure.
Now is the time to prepare, go to: gov.uk/guidance/verify-youridentity-for-companies-house to start the process. Make sure everyone in your organisation who needs to verify is informed and ready to act. Leaving it too late could mean you're unable to file documents on time and associated late filing penalties.
For further information, speak to your adviser or contact us.
The information contained herein is given by way of general guidance only, is correct and applicable only at the time of delivery and no action should be taken solely on the basis of the information contained herein.
Ensors Accountants LLP will be pleased to provide further guidance on the issues, and how they might affect you.
No liability is accepted by the firm for any actions taken without seeking appropriate professional advice.
A night of style and success!
What a night to remember!
We're still buzzing after our hugely successful Fashion Show on Friday 12th September at Holton Village Hall. It was a fantastic evening, and thanks to our wonderful community, we raised an incredible £1,493!
From the moment the doors opened, the hall was packed with excitement and laughter - the perfect setting for a spectacular night of fashion.
Glamour on the catwalk
Our amazing models took to the catwalk, showcasing a stunning array of outfits that had everyone's eyes glued to the stage. From elegant ensembles to more casual, chic looks, there was something for every taste, beautifully presented to inspire and delight. The models, a testament to local talent and enthusiasm, truly brought the clothes to life with their poise and confidence.
Guiding us seamlessly through the evening was our wonderful compère, whose engaging introductions and warm presence added an extra layer of sparkle to the show. A massive thank you to our compère and to all our brilliant models, you were all absolutely superb!
Discover your own style at Dee's Den
All of the clothes and accessories you saw on the catwalk came from our very own charity shop, Dee's Den.
We're so fortunate to have such a wonderful community that
regularly donates lovely, highquality clothing - We even receive designer items!
If you're looking for a vintage classic or a designer delight, it's truly worth a visit. Every purchase directly supports the work of our charity, The Pear Tree Fund. It's retail therapy that gives back, so why not pop in and see what treasures you can find?
The heartbeat behind the hems
This annual event simply wouldn't be possible without the dedication of an army of incredible people working tirelessly behind the scenes.
Our deepest gratitude goes to Sylvia and Joan, whose hard work over the months leading up to the event was absolutely invaluable. Their commitment ensured every detail was meticulously planned and executed.
A huge thank you also goes to Dani and Louise, whose combined talents created the perfect musical backdrop and a lively atmosphere from the mic. We also extend our thanks to Seva, Claire, and Belinda for all their hard work and support.
We're so grateful for their time and passion.
We also want to extend a huge thank you to the fantastic volunteers from Dee's Den: Lynda, Vivienne, Katy, Jane, and Frances. Their ongoing support and efforts are truly the backbone of such events, and we're so grateful for their time and passion.
The Pear Tree Fund is fortunate to have such a committed Events
A word from Rosedale Bereavement Support
I don't know about you, but to me, the world we now live in feels unrecognisable to the one I grew up in. Life seems to be changing at such a pace, I can hardly keep up!
The rapid rise of social media has led to everyone being able to share their own story, making sure their voice is heard and their point is made. Interrupting and shouting others down seems to have become acceptable behaviour on TV and radio interviews and life in general.
As someone working in the field of counselling for many years, I have noticed a subtle change of late. It now seems that in general, whilst everyone wants to be heard, there aren't many people who are prepared to listen.
A big part of my counselling training was learning how to really listen, making sure that the speaker feels truly heard and understood. Listening is such a valuable gift to give someone, all it costs us is our time.
When someone is bereaved, they often want to talk about their loved one. They miss them and are in their thoughts constantly. They don't want them to be forgotten and talking about them can be one way of keeping their memory alive.
Many bereaved people report that often people avoid mentioning their loved one in
Committee, and we must acknowledge their incredible contribution. Thank you to every member who came and helped on the night, ensuring everything ran smoothly. And who could forget the canapés? A special thank you to the committee members who generously donated the ingredients and their time to prepare these delicious treatsthey were certainly a hit!
Finally, a big shout-out to everyone else who played a part in making the evening such a success.
A truly enjoyable evening
We were delighted by the kind comments from guests, many saying how much they enjoyed the night. All funds raised will help us continue supporting local people affected by serious illness, bereavement, and caring responsibilities.
See the style!
We have a wonderful series of photos that perfectly capture the glamour and excitement of the night, showcasing our models looking incredibly chic. Keep an eye on our social media channels and website for a glimpse into this unforgettable evening!
Thank you, once again, to everyone who attended, volunteered, modelled, and supported our Fashion Show. Your generosity makes a profound difference to The Pear Tree Fund and the lives we touch every day.
We can't wait to see you at our next event!
Blyth Valley Parkinson's Support Group
About 15 of us enjoyed our outing to Carlton Marshes where we had a pleasant walk around the site and partook of a tasty lunch in the restaurant. It's a good place to visit with interesting walks, good food and a gift shop. As I write, we're looking forward to a presentation by Medical Detection Dogs in Holton Village Hall after the CC deadline.
On November 13th, we'll have a visit from Annette Dunning Community Engagement Officer and Rural Energy Officer for the Rural Coffee Caravan. We have enjoyed Annette's visits before and have received good advice.
We run a support group for people with Parkinsons and their partners/carers which is a friendly meeting on the second Thursday of most months, in Holton Village Hall from 10.30 to 12 noon. We normally have a speaker on some relevant subject and time to chat and share experiences over a cup of coffee or tea. Everyone is welcome to attend our meetings and if you would like any further information, please contact Margaret Bloomfield on 01502 478502 (margaret@wrush. plus.com) or Gail Attfield on 01502 817004 (aandgattfield@ btinternet.com).
conversation. Perhaps they want to avoid causing further upset or don't know what to say to make things better? The truth is, the bereaved person is already upset and almost nothing anyone says can make things better!
Grief can also make some people feel very uncomfortable - perhaps it reminds them of their own past bereavements? Or they prefer to avoid talking about messy emotions, preferring to keep the 'stiff upper lip'?
Of course, some people prefer to grieve privately. We all have our own way of dealing with grief - there is no right or wrong way.
However, making time to listen to someone talk about their loved one and their bereavement can provide an outlet for grief, making them feel less lonely and isolated. It also demonstrates respect and helps to build stronger and more supportive relationships. Perhaps we all need to slow down a bit, respect each other more and create some space to listen.
Rosedale's Bereavement Support Groups provide a safe, trusted place to talk about bereavement and be listened to.
Call: 01379 640 810 to reserve your free place on the next group.
This article was written by Sarah Howard, Rosedale Funeral Home Bereavement Support Group Facilitator
Are you a good listener? Do you have parenting experience or valuable life skills and a few hours a week to spare?
Home-Start Suffolk is looking for caring, compassionate volunteers to support local families going through tough times. Just a little of your time each week can make a big difference to a parent who feels overwhelmed or isolated. What do our volunteers do?
Home-visiting volunteers are at the heart of what we do at Home-Start Suffolk. They offer practical and emotional support to a local family once a week, in their own home. This might mean being a listening ear, helping with daily routines, or simply showing up with kindness and understanding. It's all about being a trusted, reliable presence when it's needed most.
We also offer a variety of other volunteering roles to suit your skills, interests, and availability - including telephone support, group support, community-based
roles including fundraising, and office-based opportunities. No special qualifications needed - just empathy, life experience and a desire to help. We provide full, free training and ongoing support. Volunteering is flexible and fits around your life. You'll also join a warm, supportive network of like-minded people.
Why volunteer with Home-Start Suffolk?
• Give back to your community • Build confidence and gain new skills • Be part of something that truly matters You can change a lifeincluding your own. Get started today. Visit www.homestartinsuffolk.org or call us on 01473 621104 to find out more.
Get a waddle on and join the panto fun at Leiston Film Theatre this January!
Team B Productions invites you to their egg-citing family Pantomime, Mother Goose, appearing live at the splendid Leiston Film Theatre between the 9th and 11th January 2026.
With one less performance this year, tickets are already in big demand, with seats for some performances already limited.
Mother Goose's heart may be full, but her purse certainly isn't - she's behind with the rent and in danger of losing her farm. Thankfully, there's a twist of fate, when a magical goose that lays golden eggs arrives, turning their family fortunes upside down. But when the devious Demon DarkHeart arrives, will Mother Goose be tempted to give up her wealth - and her gorgeous goose, in return for youth and beauty?
The pantomime has been written by Wayne Burns and is being brought to the stage under his 'Team B Productions' title, a group of experienced am-dram performers, whose previous sell-out successes have included shows at Leiston Film Theatre and at the Spa Pavilion Theatre in Felixstowe.
Mother Goose promises another traditional family pantomime, packed to the panto
brim with toe tapping tunes and crack-ing jokes, that'll have you honking with laughter, with more audience participation than you can shake a feather at!
Work is also underway on a brand-new comedy-drama, to be staged at Leiston Film Theatre in September 2026. Inspired by the iconic sit-com, Hi-de-Hi and set in a Suffolk holiday camp in the 1980s, Mourning Campers follows the drama on stage and behind the scenes at Archer's Holiday Camp. Tickets are scheduled to be available from Monday 12th January 2026. Wayne Burns (Film Theatre Manager & Pantomime Director), is looking forward to bringing Mother Goose to the stage. "I think this is one of the most fun packed, novel and possibly barmy Pantomimes we've ever staged! It's got bucket loads of silliness and jokes - and not forgetting a 10ft goose! The entire cast and crew work as a team and everyone cannot wait to bring our brilliant script to life on stage and perform for such appreciative crowds" he said.
The pantomime
The Pear Tree Fund
J C WOODPRODUCTS
NOVEMBER 1ST
Beccles Bell Tour
Beccles Bell Tower
10am-4pm. Last 2025 date to tour Beccles Bell Tower.
NOVEMBER 1ST
Annual Cèilidh
Laxfield Village Hall
6:30pm (doors open), 7pm (dancing starts). Come & enjoy
a lively evening with the fabulous Hosepipe Band to celebrate the end of another successful season for the Laxfield & District Museum. Bar & refreshments available. Tickets must be purchased in advance £10pp (in aid of Laxfield & District Museum). Please call Elaine Nason: 01986 798531, or email: info@laxfieldmuseum.org.uk, & hurry!
NOVEMBER 1ST
Halloween Party
Wheatacre White Lion
8:30pm til late. Fancy dress to impress! Halloween Party with 'Movie Night' (Lowestoft based rock & pop punk covers band,
playing all the greatest hits from motion picture films). Be there if you dare! www.wheatacrewhitelion.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2ND
Quiz at the Hall
Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
7:30pm. Come test your general knowledge at our friendly & competitive quiz evening! Teams of up to 6 people. Tickets £6pp.
NOVEMBER 3RD
Bungay Flower Club Flower
Arranging Demonstration
Emmanuel Rooms, Boyscott Lane, Bungay
6:30pm (doors open). 7pm start. Demonstration titled 'Stories' by Naomi Wells. Visitors welcome
£5pp incl. tea/coffee & biscuits.
NOVEMBER 7TH
Ellie & James: Not Your Average Duet (PG) Fisher Theatre, Bungay
7:30pm. 1-night-only show of duets, show-stopping tunes, & laughs, following Ellie's sold-out June performance. From: £13pp.
NOVEMBER 7TH - 9TH
Beccles Beer Festival
Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
7th: 4pm-11pm. 8th: 12pm-11pm & 9th: 12pm-6pm. Local real ale, cider and craft lager. Live music, food & soft drinks. Free admission. Raising funds for Beccles Lido
NOVEMBER 8TH
Reydon Christmas Fair
Reydon Village Hall
10am-2pm. Reydon Christmas Fair, in aid of Framlingham and Saxmundham Cats Protection.
NOVEMBER 8TH
Quiz Night
The Club, 2 London Road, Beccles
7:30pm start. Bar opens 7pm. Teams of up-to 4. £2.50pp. Please book on 01502 713535.
NOVEMBER 11TH
Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror
Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
7:30pm. FW Murnau's 1922 classic with a new live score
performed by composer Chris Green. Tickets: £15pp.
NOVEMBER 13TH
Benched
Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
7:30pm. Tickets: £11pp. Harry Quirk's tragi-comedy about 2 hitmen whose waiting game turns into a darkly funny reflection on life, death & the inevitable.
NOVEMBER 14TH
Drag Bingo with Dee & Mindy
Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
8pm. Tickets: £13.50 (per table). A riotous night of bingo, cheesy songs, comedy & prizes with drag queens Miss DeeLicious & Mindy Pendant.
NOVEMBER 15TH
Bingo!
The Club, 2 London Road, Beccles
Bar open 6:45pm. Eyes down 7:30pm. Books £6. No booking required. 01502 713535.
NOVEMBER 15TH
The Searchers & Hollies Experience
Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
7:30pm. Tickets: £21pp. A high-energy tribute packed with classic hits, soaring harmonies & timeless melodies from 2 of the greatest bands of the '60s & '70s.
NOVEMBER 15TH
Songbird: Music of Fleetwood Mac Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Authentic high-energy tribute capturing the sound & spirit of Fleetwood Mac with polished, unforgettable
performances. £24pp.
NOVEMBER 15TH - 22ND
Black Dog Arts
Autumn Exhibition
St. Mary's Church, Bungay 10am-4pm. Free entry. Autumn Exhibition, open to both members & non-members of Black Dog Arts. Final submission date: Oct 31st. blackdogarts.org
NOVEMBER 18TH
Quiz Night
Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Test your general knowledge with host Joe Edwards-Gill. Teams up to 6, £8pp incl. nibbles. Prizes for the winners. All proceeds support the Fisher
NOVEMBER 19TH & 20TH
Raconteur Theatre Company
Presents: The Long Drop Beccles Public Hall & Theatre 7:30pm. Tickets: £12.50pp. Raconteur Theatre Company presents Annie Marler's powerful drama exploring 5 women on death row, justice, revenge, & the human cost of capital punishment.
NOVEMBER 20TH
The Jane Austen Family Songbook - Matinée Idles (U) Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. A musical & literary journey exploring songs & piano works collected by Jane Austen & her family, brought to life through performance & reflection. From £10pp.
NOVEMBER 21ST
The Greatest Little Ol' Fashioned Variety Show Fisher Theatre, Bungay
7:30pm. Music, comedy & magic with host Robert Cator, vocalist Sadie Louise & magician Andy Leach for an unforgettable evening of entertainment. £15pp
NOVEMBER 21ST
Suffolk Chamber Orchestra
Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
7:30pm. A vibrant concert of string favourites incl. Vivaldi's Spring & Summer, Pachelbel's Canon, & Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 3. From: £10pp
NOVEMBER 22ND
Brahms Concert:
Beccles Choral Society
St Michael's Church, Beccles 7pm. Beccles Choral Society, conducted by Geoff Lavery, with professional soloists & 2 pianists will perform 3 contrasting works by Brahms; his monumental masterpiece & sublimely beautiful Requiem (in English), the Variations on a Theme by Haydn ("Saint Anthony") & the gorgeous and profound Geistliche Lied. Tickets £20pp (under 16s & students free) from: ticketsbeccleschoral@ gmail.com, Beccles Bookshop or Marion Fox: 07586 959326.
NOVEMBER 22ND
Soul Kinda Wonderful
Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
7:30pm. Tickets: £21pp. Awardwinning tribute to The Four Tops & The Temptations, feat. Richie Sampson (formerly of The Drifters), performing soul & Motown classics.
NOVEMBER 22ND
The Golden Oldies Rock & Roll Show Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. A nostalgic journey through 50s & 60s classics from Elvis, Billy Fury, Cliff Richard & more. Tickets from: £15pp.
NOVEMBER 26TH
Time Travelling with Myself Beccles Public Hall & Theatre 7:30pm. Tickets from: £5pp. A family sci-fi adventure filmed in East Suffolk, starring Jake Clarke & Louise Jameson, with screening plus Q&A with cast & creatives.
NOVEMBER 26TH
NOVEMBER 27TH
Cafe Neuro
Waveney Centre, Beccles 2pm. If you/someone you care for has a neurological condition, a new monthly group meeting is being established in Beccles. Café Neuro will be held on the 4th Thurs of each month. Our first gathering will be on October 23rd and our goal is to just chat while tea, coffee and cake will be available for purchase. Do feel free to come along!
NOVEMBER 27TH
Luke Wright's Pub Grub Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Fun, filthy & inventive poetry celebrating the ordinary, with audacious rhymes, bighearted storytelling, & plenty of laughs! 14+. Tickets: £15pp.
NOVEMBER 27TH
The Jive Aces Beccles Public Hall & Theatre
7:30pm. Tickets: £25pp. The UK's No.1 Jive & Swing band return with high-energy swing, rock'n'roll, & Rat Pack classics, supported by father-and-son duo Mark Anthony & Isaac.
NOVEMBER 28TH Pearl in the Egg with Kemp's Noyse Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. A captivating journey through Medieval to Elizabethan music, featuring authentic instruments, costumes, & tavern songs with Kemp's Noyse. Tickets from: £11pp.
NOVEMBER 29TH
Christmas Fayre Ilketshall St. Andrew Village Hall 10am-3pm. Our very popular annual event. Get ready for Christmas! Variety of stalls selling locally-made crafts, produce & gifts, fun games & fantastic raffle. Delicious refreshments available throughout the day. Plenty of parking.
NOVEMBER 29TH
Quiz Night The Club, 2 London Road, Beccles
Charles Dickens': A Christmas Carol: A ghost story for a winter's night Fisher Theatre, Bungay 7:30pm. Chilling & heartwarming one-man adaptation of Dickens' classic, feat. Vincent Franklin as Scrooge & 20+ characters. Tickets from: £13pp.
7:30pm start. Bar opens 7pm. Teams of up-to 4. £2.50pp. Please book on 01502 713535. NOVEMBER 30TH Great Yarmouth Brass - Christmas Musical Extravaganza Beccles Public Hall & Theatre 2:30pm. Tickets: £13pp. An afternoon of festive music with mulled wine & a mince pie incl.
Email your event details over to: edit@micropress.co.uk to be included in our 'What's on?' listing section for free!
Parking improvements on Common Lane
Beccles Town Council has been working with sports clubs based off Common Lane to increase parking capacity and make the area safer for young people and their parents using the football, rugby, cricket and tennis clubs, as well as for users of the Scout & Guides building.
The project is in four phases:
• Improvements to Alan Hutchinson Way (leading to the Football Club's artificial pitch)
• A footpath from Common Lane to the entrance to the Scout & Guide building
• Double-yellow lines on Common Lane, adjacent to both Alan Hutchinson Way and Ken
Markland Way • Increasing the size of the main car park off Ken Markland Way by using the land adjacent to the Scout & Guide building for parking. The works at Alan Hutchinson Way have now been completed, including the installation of three streetlights and the creation of additional parking. Further phases will hopefully be implemented over the next few months, although these do depend on obtaining planning permission. Look out for more updates on this project on the council website and on our Facebook page.
Looking for a sweet treat that bridges spooky fun and festive cheer? These cupcakes are the ultimate mash-up of Halloween and Christmas flavours! Imagine the cosy warmth of gingerbread meeting the autumnal sweetness of pumpkin, all crowned with a creamy, nutmeg-kissed buttercream icing that tastes just like eggnog. Perfect for parties, seasonal gatherings, or simply indulging while carving pumpkins or hanging fairy lights - this recipe brings two holidays together in one delicious bite! Ingredients For the cupcakes:
• 200g plain flour
• 1 tsp baking powder •
tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
ground nutmeg
100g soft brown sugar
Bramfield, Ringsfield and Brampton Primary Schools activities
The Reception and Nursery children at Ringsfield Primary School had a trip to a Big Top circus tent at the Village Hall. They got the chance to try the circus skills of spinning plates, juggling with scarves, walking across a balance beam, and they even had a go at using a diabolo. Some of our families then went
to watch the show over the weekend. We were very lucky to have this on our doorstep and the children really enjoyed the experience!
The Reception class at Bramfield Primary School have been enjoying the story of 'The Little Red Hen' as they investigate Harvest and what that looks like.
A wet September with an autumnal finish
This summary is compiled from the records of Stephen Bartholomew of Beccles. September 2025:
• Maximum temp: 25.1C (77F) on the 19th, compared with 24.8C (76F) in September 2024.
• Minimum temp: 6.0C (42F) on the 22nd, compared with 3.0C (37F) in September 2024.
• Average max. temp: 19.70C (67F) in 2025. 19.38C (66F) in 2024. 19.49C (67F) on average.
• Average min. temp: 10.49C (50F) in 2025. 11.82C (53F) in 2024. 10.75C (51F) on average.
Although the month had near average temperatures overall, it was the coolest September since 2019. It was also 50% wetter than normal.
The warm theme remaining from the Summer (and much of the year so far) was continued during the first 20 days. This spell included 12 of the 13 days to reach or exceed 20C during the month (and all but one of the others reached or exceeded 18.5C).
To begin with we read the story, thinking about how the Little Red Hen was feeling when her friends wouldn't help her. Next we explored wheat. The children tried removing the wheat from the ears and husks and we then had a go at grinding the wheat to make the flour. That was hard work!
The final and best stage according to the children was making the bread which we got to enjoy at snack time. To use up all the ingredients the children turned our class into a pizza restaurant where they were served their pizzas that they had helped to make.
The Reception children at Brampton have really settled well into our daily routine and are trying so hard with their learning. We recently learned the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears and enjoyed using the repetitive language to retell the story with their friends. They also had a challenge to make a bed that was "just right" for one of our bears. They all tried super
Ringsfield's Circus Trip
hard and made the most amazing beds, picking and choosing which materials they would like to use. Great work guys!
Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a 12-hole muffin tin with cupcake cases.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, spices, and salt.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the sugars, eggs, oil, pumpkin purée, treacle, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake cases and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Make the icing: Beat the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the icing sugar, then mix in the cream, brandy (if using), nutmeg, and vanilla. Whip until smooth and creamy.
7. Decorate: Pipe or spread the frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Garnish with festive sprinkles, mini gingerbread men, or Halloween-themed toppers for a seasonal twist. Spiced Pumpkin & Gingerbread
• Mean temp: 15.10C (59F) in 2025. 15.60C (60F) in 2024. 15.12C (59F) on average.
• Rainfall total: 2.99" compared with 3.01" in September 2024. (30-year average: 1.99"). 2025 total: 150% of average.
• Most rainfall on one day: 0.44 on the 2nd.
• Wind direction (mainly from): South-west 12 days, south 8 days, north 2 days, north-east 2 days, south east 2 days and west 2 days.
The true feel of Autumn kicked in thereafter on the 21st, with cooler days in general but also somewhat chillier nights following the passage of a cold front which initially introduced North to East winds for several days. However a switch to Southerly winds during the last four days of the month again introduced relative daytime warmth as 19.0C and 20.0C were noted on the 28th and 30th respectively.
From September 1st-20th, the average maximum temperature
was 20.9C and the average minimum temperature was 11.9C and there was 2.77" of rainfall.
From September 21st-30th, the average maximum temperature was 17.2C and the average minimum temperature was 7.6C and there was 0.22" of rainfall.
The eventual rainfall of 2.99" was almost identical to that of last September, the fourth consecutive and sixth wetter than average September out of the last seven.
The first four days were in fact very wet. Being four of the seven daily totals of quarter of an inch
or more, as a consequence more than one half of the month's total (1.51") had already accumulated. The remaining three wettest days were included in the seven day period 11th to 17th, by which time over 92% of the total had been recorded.
In between, high pressure had formed during periods 5th to 10th September (six days totally dry) and 18th September to 2nd October (four days of mainly light showers) to nullify the threat of rain bearing fronts from the Atlantic Ocean.
Three quarters of 2025 has been
completed, 14.48" of rainfall has been recorded so far (somewhat lower than the 21.88" recorded at the same time last year). The shortfall could have been even worse, September was only the second wetter than average month this year, together with July has contributed marginally less than half the meagre 2025 amount. Long-term annual average is 25.60". Traditionally October, November and December are the three wettest (or wetter) months of the year, maybe some of the notable shortfall will be made up during the back end of 2025.
Septembers rainfall of 2.99" was almost identical to that of last September
Beccles Town Council
Cupcakeswith Eggnog Icing
Bramfield making pizza
Brampton making beds for their bears
Support Beccles Hospital
League of Friends seeks volunteers
The League of Friends has been running for many years and supports patients both within the Hospital and at Beccles Medical Centre Campus.
We have opportunities for individuals to become Trustees and Volunteers.
Do you have any experience with fundraising, being on a committee or have ideas going forward to support the good work that the League of Friends does? Can you spare an afternoon a week and an evening every other month?
If so, please email Peter Harrison (Chairperson) on: peter.harrison198@gmail.com
In our September meeting, we authorised among other things the purchase of four riser recliner chairs for the use of patients on the ward which is in addition to many purchases during the year to help staff
and patients have equipment to make their stay and recovery better.
During the winter 2024/spring of 2025, the ward and League of Friends raised over £15,000 for the landscaping of the patient garden. It now has suitable seating, seasonal planting and solar lighting. We are always looking for volunteers to help with gardening tasks such as deadheading and watering.
The plan for winter 2025 is fundraising for a memorial garden within the grounds of Beccles Hospital, including a metal ornamental tree for patients and relatives past and present to buy a leaf, which will have their names upon it.
If this is something you'd like to be involved with, please contact Peter Harrison for further details on the League of Friends or Volunteer Norfolk to become a volunteer.
'The Night Watchman' by Peter Nixon and 'Tudor Family Game' by David Penrose (18 points) Mono prints:
• 'Old & New Lifeboat Stations at The Mumbles' by Sue Grief (20 points)
• 'Unsettled Weather at Southwold' by Pat Farrow (20 points)
HANDY TEAM
• 'A Sinister Midnight Encounter' by David Penrose and 'Flatford Reflections' by Jim Moore (19 points)
• 'Broome Village Church' by Adrian Muttitt, 'Defiant Against the Incoming Storm' by Peter Nixon and 'Sacred & Ancient' by Paul Farrow (18 points) PDI's:
• 'Gloomy Sunday' by Ian Bunday and 'Sparks A Flying' by Paul Farrow (20 points)
• 'A Spoon Full of Sugar' by Eddie Pond and 'A Quiet Five Minutes' by Richard Roberts (19 points)
• 'Flirting' by Sue Grief and 'Rosedale River' by Pat Farrow (18 points) Join us! Are you interested in photography or just curious to see what we're about? Bungay Camera Club welcomes new members of all experience levels. You're invited to attend two meetings free of charge, no obligation, just come along and enjoy! Visit: bungaycameraclub. org to learn more about our events, competitions, and community.
