4 Market Hill, Framlingham Has taken over Grange News
D.C. Patrick
NEWSAGENTS
4 Market Hill, Framlingham saH
Following Bob s retirement, David is taking on the rounds covered by Grange news
Bob
4 Market Hill, Framlingham Has taken over Grange News
David has over 40 years experience and runs newsagents in Halesworth and Framlingham.
Following Bob s retirement David is taking on the rounds covered by Grange news
Bob s son Craig will continue to manage the service and will be delivering 7 days a to all the same locations.
4 Market Hill, Framlingham Has taken over Grange News Tel: 01986 874 305 & 07907 223 715
David has over 40 years experience and runs newsagents in Halesworth and Framlingham.
hope you will continue to support the ase e any q ound Woodbridge and the surrounding villages.
Tel: 01986 874 305 & 07907 223 715
Tel: 01986 874 305 & 07907 223 715
FIRST HALF HOUR SESSION =
Edgar Sewter Primary welcomes Invictus hero Richard Potter
Edgar Sewter recently hosted a truly inspirational guest: Team
GB Invictus Paralympian
Richard Potter. The visit
sparked a wave of excitement as students began a school-wide sponsored challenge to raise funds for brand-new sports equipment.
Putting fitness into action,
Richard spent the day engaging with every year group, sharing his passion for athletics and putting the children through their paces. Each class took part in highenergy fitness circuits, proving that staying active can be as much fun as it is rewarding.
A message of resilience beyond the physical activities, Richard shared his personal journey of triumph over adversity. His story of determination and grit left a lasting impact on the students. Richard's personal motto, "Always Aim High", deeply resonated with the children, leaving them empowered to tackle their own future challenges with confidence.
Halesworth Hoppa
We were very pleased that the Hoppa was called into service again this year to support the ever-growing Ink Festival.
Email: sharmangary4@gmail.com
LARGE
'Our FamOus barbecue packs' £39.99
4lb flavoured chicken
4lb Flavoured Ribs
4lb flavoured ribs
4lb Flavoured Ribs
4lb Flavoured Chicken
4lb
4lb sausages
Not only did we provide a service ferrying attendees between the many venues that were staging performances, we were also a performance venue ourselves with audiences in the passengers' seats to view short plays. Everything seemed to come together to help ensure festival goers had a great time and were able to cram in as many events as possible. We look forward to more next year!
Did you know the Hoppa is here for YOU? We still meet people, including long-term
residents who believe you can only use the Hoppa if you've booked it, or if you belong to a certain group, or age range. But that's not true. It's here for everyone.
Bus pass holders travel free, while others pay a fare of £2 for an adult and 50p for a child over five.
For those who hire the bus for Community Hires please be aware that the fees have changed to £120 per day, to include 30 miles of fuel, then £2 per mile for all subsequent miles. Finally, we'd like to
remind readers that drivers and bus buddies are all volunteers and we're always keen to speak to new volunteer drivers and helpers.
If you'd like to know more, please contact the HACT office on 01986 875900 or email: office@hactbus.co.uk
Ale Day returns for 2026!
Celebrating brewing, history and hospitality.
of
or
4lb Sausages
x10 beefburgers
4lb Sausages
x5 pork & apple burgers
10 Beef Burgers
5 Pork and Apple Burgers
10 Beef Burgers
5 Pork and Apple Burgers
Small Barbecue Packs
SMALL BBQ PACKS: £16.99
Small Barbecue Packs
4 items, 16 piece
£9.99
£9.99
x4 pieces of flavoured chicken
x4 pieces of flavoured ribs
x4 sausages
All barbecue meat available loose including... Fresh Flavoured Ribs, Chicken & Burgers
All barbecue meat available loose including... Fresh Flavoured Ribs, Chicken & Burgers
x4 beef burgers
Also Salads, Pickles and Sauces
Also Salads, Pickles and Sauces
6oz STEAK BURGERS: £2.00 each
Traditionally reared local beef lamb pork and poultry
Traditionally-reared local beef, lamb, pork and poultry, home-cooked hams and home-cured gammons OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri 7am-5pm & Sat 7am-1pm
Join Halesworth for a day of fantastic events; brewery talks with Adnams, beer making demos, guided walks by local history experts, the Malt experience exhibition and tours at the Cut Arts Centre, walks along the Blyth Road Navigation to the site of the restored Halesworth to Southwold Narrow Gauge Railway (HSNGR), the new Ale Trail taking you around former and current pub locations, family area with games, crafts, live theatre and more. Fantastic live music from East Angles Brass, Blyth River Blues Band, Ballard Bootleggers and Daisy & the Continentals. Sample the exclusive Halesworth Alebeing brewed especially for the Halesworth Ale Day by Tindall Brewery.
Sample local ales and visit The Tap Room for their Beer Festival, the White Hart, The Angel and The Swan. Peruse the impressive range of independent shops Halesworth has to offer.
New for 2026:
• Dwile Flonking Contest: Taking place in the Town Park, can Halesworth defend their title as Championship flonkers? Not contested since 1970! After 50 years, we're bring the ancient pub 'sport' back!
Explore the Millennium Green and the Blyth Road Navigation - learn how the Wherry Boats transported malt up the River Blyth for the production of beer. Find out about the famous brewers and many maltings buildings.
Take a walk around town and view the locations of the former public houses and visit the current ones! Learn about the railway and its role in beer production, visit Halesworth's Museum located at the train station and view the excellent exhibition on brewing. Walk up to the Halesworth Narrow Gauge Railway site at the Folly and see the progress being made to restore this. Visit the History Hub at the Magickal Emporium in the Market Place, enjoy talks from Adnams about the Southwold Brewery and join local beer expert David Crease for his fascinating talks and beer tasting. Enjoy Halesworth's pedestrianised Thoroughfare -
• Drinks Market: In the Market Place with over 15 local breweries, vineyards, cider & gin producers, cocktail makers plus delicious food offerings from The Lick Caribbean, loaded fries from The Bucket List, Marley's Pie & Mash & Liquor and Suffolk Meadow ice-creams from Vintage Chic's Bicycle Cart.
• Improved Family Area: Live theatre from Strange Fascination Theatre Company, face painting, craft activities, garden games, stilt walkers, gigantic bubble blowers, drumming workshops and entertainment. Reach us by bus, train, car or cycle. Halesworth train station is a five-minute walk from the town centre and a great place to start your day, being home to the museum and not far from the Cut Arts Centre. There are also three car parks in the town centre and regular buses.
Follow Halesworth Ale Day on Facebook and Instagram for live updates @HalesworthAleDay. Funded & supported by SZC Tourism Event Grant - East Suffolk Council & Halesworth Town Council.
Halesworth Town Council
snooker, pool
darts.
Tree of Hope
On 3rd March 2026, my family and I were very proud to plant a 'Tree of Hope' at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge.
The story began in 2012 when my daughter, Jessica Everett (née Cook), took on the challenge of walking the 84-mile Hadrian's Wall path with her friend, Charlotte Wilby, to raise money for The Willow Foundation.
This was no mean feat, as Jess has Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), a degenerative condition with no known cure which means that Jess is deaf, visually impaired, and has mobility difficulties. With Charlotte's support (and mine for the steepest section), they completed the challenge in eight days. Along the way, they enjoyed the spectacular Northumberland scenery and fell in love with the iconic Sycamore Gap tree.
As lovers of nature and trees in particular, we (along with many people) were devastated when we saw on the news that some mindless individuals had brutally cut down the Sycamore Gap tree. The National Trust has been working to find ways to preserve the tree and its legacy. They grew 49 saplings from the seeds, one for each foot in height of the original tree, and in 2024, there was an opportunity to apply for one. I applied and was delighted when I received the email confirming I'd been successful.
There were conditions as
to where the saplings could be planted to ensure public access so all could enjoy the trees. I had decided that the tree would be planted at Addenbrooke's Hospital, where Jess receives all her treatment, care, and surgeries. The National Trust had called the saplings 'Trees of Hope,' and in the application, you had to state what this would mean to the community you were applying on behalf of.
Jess has been a strong force in the NF2 community, setting up a CIC, 'Can You Hear Us?', speaking at medical conferences around the world, and writing two books to support other sufferers. I felt that the tree would offer a place for hope and contemplation for the NF2 community, including patients and all the amazing staff who care for them.
Now, when Jess goes to the hospital on regular visits, she can take solace with the tree, whatever the news she has received. I'm so proud of her for fighting this awful condition and for all the support she's offered others. It'll be a while before this little sapling reaches the majestic height of its parent tree, but if you want to see it, you can find it in The Peace Garden, adjacent to Car Park 1 at Addenbrooke's Hospital.
To find out more, please visit:
• canyouhearus.co.uk
• nationaltrust.org.uk
• willowfoundation.org.uk
Wendy Burroughes
Wenhaston Flower Club
Our meeting on May 5th was our members' takeover evening. Three of our talented members each had a brief for their demonstrations; during the evening, the rest of us moved around so we all saw all three demonstrations.
Kim was tasked with using supermarket-bought flowers.
With a few bits from her garden, she made three beautiful bouquets and a little posy for less than £20.
Jane showed us that, as well as traditional hanging baskets, you could be adventurous and use houseplants, tumbling varieties of tomatoes, and strawberries.
Jane gave us a very useful tip: it's always a good idea to really soak your basket liner before you start to plant.
Ally showed us how to make a clay flower holder for the top of jam jars, as these are becoming
popular for table decorations for weddings and other events.
Our next meeting on June 2nd will be our trip to Helmingham Hall, which Jane has very kindly arranged.
On Tuesday, July 7th, it will be our Garden Party. One of our members very generously hosts this in their garden; however, if wet, it will be in Wenhaston Village Hall. Please note the earlier time of 6:30pm. Members are asked to bring a sharing plate of food. Please contact Jackie for items still required on the list.
As we don't meet in August, our next usual meeting will be on Tuesday, September 1st, at 7:30pm in Wenhaston Village Hall. This will be an Ikebana demonstration by Richard Holmes.
For more information, please contact Jackie Chenery on 01502 478401.
Joy Watson, who lives in Halesworth, would like to thank her neighbour, Caroline, and all the lovely ladies who came to her rescue on April 7th when she had a tumble in Rectory Street. A special thanks to the young man who managed to lift her back to her feet. Grateful thanks to you all.
Please send any editorial from your local groups, clubs and events for the paper to edit@micropress.co.uk Thanks
• Booking flexibility (subject to T +C)
• Minimum 4 sessions
• Discount for more sessions
• Ideal exercise, hydrotherapy or relaxation
• Only1 mile from Halesworth View video at www.valleyfarmholton.co.uk
Details: 01986 874521 mail@valleyfarmholton.co.uk
(L to R): Jules (Specialist Nurse), Jessica Everett and mum
Update from Halesworth Millennium Green
You may have seen them on the Woolnough pathway of Millennium Green on a Tuesday during the warmer months of the year, April to October.
Bicycle Active North Suffolk (BANS) runs lots of different cycling vehicles for disabled people on several different adapted tricycles. BANS is the brainchild of David George and his wife Michelle, who started the organisation in 2023 partly because one of their children is disabled. They used to volunteer for Wheels for All, a national organisation which helps children and adults with disabilities to cycle.
When I spoke to him, David had just been on a first aid course in Lowestoft, which he and various trustees have to do every year. An enormous amount of work goes into the organisation; the website is written and maintained by the treasurer. At the moment, the volunteers do the minimum amount of bike maintenance, and their servicing is outsourced to a mobile maintenance mechanic who services the bikes annually.
This may change in the future if they manage to locate a training course for maintaining adaptive bicycles in East Anglia.
Clients typically come from Mencap, Pear Tree Trust, and
Dementia Care. Some may have had a stroke, but all reap the benefits of their cycling experience, both social and mental. All enjoy the social interaction; some report greater confidence, while others enjoy the physical exercise in the outdoors and being able to use equipment that they might not be able to afford otherwise. The organisation prides itself on "breaking down barriers and has shown that almost any disability can get on a bike and ride," says David George. BANS relies on donations and funders, both large and small. Snap Fitness in Beccles is one of its main funders, and sometimes donations come from passersby.
The organisation is always searching for more volunteers, and training will be given. BANS can be followed on Facebook, or their website is www.bansuffolk. co.uk.
In an area where there's a dearth of facilities for disabled people, BANS is outstanding.
I'm mobility impaired and I can't get into my local gym; I have difficulty accessing the park, and I cannot get to the surgery without my tricycle to support me.
Perhaps the local council would like to start a conversation?
By Lisa Samson, Trustee of Millennium Green
Meet "Norfolk Bug Man" Finding balance in your garden
On June 16th at 2pm at the Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth, the Halesworth & District U3A's monthly talk will be 'Garden Bugs: Cohabit - Control or Conserve?' presented by Dr. Ian Bedford, a retired entomologist, known as the "Norfolk Bug Man"!
For over 42 years, Ian worked in plant science research at the John Innes Centre (one of the UK's leading research centres) near Norwich, where he became head of their Entomology Department.
Now, apart from giving talks, he regularly holds Plant Pest Clinics at Garden Centres and national flower/garden shows and also appears on popular TV shows such as Gardeners' World and BBC Breakfast.
plants so how do we achieve a happy balance?
Ian's talk will cover how we can effectively control these plant pests without resorting to killing them with the toxic chemicals that cause so much harm to other garden wildlife. He will also reveal some of the techniques and products to help us achieve this in what promises to be an entertaining and informative presentation.
The talk is free to current Halesworth and District U3A members and for non-members, tickets are available at £4 in advance, or, on the door at the Cut. Why not come along early, meet with friends, and enjoy a delicious lunch in the Cut café?
An update from The Pear Tree Fund
Join us for our information day and late night opening at the Pear Tree Centre
Val Rutterford for working so hard with organising this event.
Well done Reece!
A massive well done to Reece
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His talk will explain the importance of the insects and other invertebrates we find in our gardens. Biodiversity is declining rapidly throughout the world with Britain being one of the most nature-depleted countries. It's therefore vitally important that, where possible, we protect the wildlife within our gardens. The problem is that there are also many creatures that can potentially harm our garden
Finally, as mentioned last month, our U3A is run by a small committee, we urgently need more volunteers to come forward to help us out in various roles, especially if you have IT skills. So whether you're a current U3A member, or maybe just thinking of joining, we'd be delighted to hear from you. To find out more, please send a message to Rachael De Souza via the contact page on our website: halesworth.u3asite.uk
We'd like the Pear Tree Centre to be accessible to everyone who needs support, which is why we've made the decision to open late until 7pm on the second Tuesday of every month. We'll open late on June 9th. You're also welcome to join us for our information and wellbeing day on May 28th from 10am-1pm to meet us and explore the range of local care and wellbeing services available to support people living with life-changing illnesses.
Thank you for donating your scrap metal
Our heavy metal weekend at Holton Village Hall raised a fantastic total of £1,592. This money helps us to fund vital support for anyone facing a life changing diagnosis, their family and carers. A huge thank you to
Ling who completed the London marathon and has so far raised an astonishing £1,944 for The Pear Tree Fund. Reece trained incredibly hard for this event in aid of two fantastic charities, a big thank-you for your efforts, Reece and well done.
Steve Jones inspiring story
Steve Jones life changed in 2018 after a serious motorbike accident left him with a brain injury. He spent five months in a coma and 10 months in hospital relearning how to walk, talk, and reconnect with the world. Recovery was long and overwhelming. In 2021, he found vital support at the Pear Tree Centre, a place that became a turning point in his journey.
Wentworth Hotel, Aldeburgh and there are still a few tickets available. The cost is £35 which includes a glass of fizz on arrival and a two-course lunch followed by tea/coffee. There will be some lovely stalls to browse including Halesworth boutique Boho & Blyth selling their beautiful clothing and accessories. We look forward to seeing you there. To book, please contact Manon on: 07754 614541.
Dates for the diary
• May 17th, 2:30pm: Charity Football Match, Auction, BBQ & Quiz at Leiston Football Club. • June 3rd, 12pm: Ladies Lunch at the Wentworth Hotel, Aldeburgh.
This month, Steve returned to the centre to reunite with manager Seva Newrick, who supported him through his recovery. He has since written a book about his experience and the impact the centre had on his recovery. Once it's published, we'll share details on where it can be purchased.
Ladies Lunch at Wentworth Hotel
Our popular 'ladies lunch' event returns on June 3rd at The
• June 14th, 12pm-4pm: Valerie's Open Garden Art Exhibition, Inglenook, Norwich Road, IP19 8QQ • July 17th: Fish, Chips & Sea Shanties, more info available soon. • August 28th: Charity Golf Day at Halesworth Golf Club. To book/sponsor the event, please contact: beth.yates@peartreefund.org Running a fundraiser for us? We'd love to hear about your event and share your story. Please get in touch with our team today: 01986 899655.
Reece Ling has raised a fantastic £1,944 for The Pear Tree Fund, running the recent London Marathon
Pear Tree Manager, Seva Newrick with Steve Jones
Halesworth
LOCAL SERVICES DIRECTORY
Southwold Museum & Historical Society
Battle of Sole Bay Dinner
The Southwold Museum & Historical Society will be holding the third annual Battle of Sole Bay Dinner, in commemoration of the 4,000 sailors who lost their lives on June 6th, 1672.
This battle (part of the Third Anglo-Dutch War and now commemorated 354 years later) remains the greatest sea battle ever fought off the coast of Britain, yet it's almost unknown in the UK. Fought four miles off the coast of Southwold, the engagement was exceptionally savage. De Ruyter, the Dutch Admiral, described it as "sharper and more prolonged" than any battle he had ever witnessed.
In terms of scale, more ships took part in this battle than in the Battle of Trafalgar, yet very few people outside the area are aware of it. While the Dutch still mark it as a great victory, in hindsight, it's
better described as a draw.
Commanding the English fleet was the Duke of York, who later served as the Lord High Admiral of England until 1685. Upon the death of his brother, Charles II, he ascended to the throne as James II.
The Dinner will be held on Friday, June 12th at Southwold Golf Club. Please arrive at 6:30pm for a 7pm start. Tickets are priced at £45 per person, and are available by emailing: secretary@southwold museum.org
Speaking at the dinner will be Dr. George Southcombe of Wadham College, Oxford. His talk, titled 'From Neptune's Wonder to Dismal Jimmy!', will explore the life of the Duke of York and James II. For more information, please contact John Nickell-Lean (President, Southwold Museum & Historical Society) on: 07976 962611.
Halesworth WI report
Halesworth WI members listened with interest to a talk, accompanied by slides, given recently by Mick Miller on the life of Edith Cavell, the famous nurse executed during WWI for helping British soldiers escape.
Born in 1865, Edith grew up in a country vicarage in Swardeston, Norfolk, where her father served as the vicar. She was one of four children and, by all accounts, enjoyed a happy childhood.
Aged 24, she left for Brussels to work as a governess for a family of four. She remained with them for five years before returning to the London Hospital to train as a nurse. She also trained in Hackney and Manchester.
When Dr. Depage organised a training school for nurses in Brussels, he needed a trained
Update from Edgar Sewter Playschool, Out of School & Holiday Clubs
Our independent Ofstedregistered Playschool runs from Monday to Friday during term time giving a great start for little ones in a warm nurturing environment offering two year and 30-hour funded places from September.
We have been eagerly awaiting the hatching of our chicks and hopefully soon will have some fluffy new arrivals from the incubator! The caterpillars are now in cocoons and we
can't wait to see the butterflies emerge. We also walked to Halesworth Bookshop to buy 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' to share and the children have made caterpillars and fruit for the wall display. The beans and sunflowers are growing well so lots of new life to learn about and enjoy.
Our walk to the park was fun and a special treat purchased from the bakery to enjoy with our morning milk. The children
nurse who spoke French. Edith went out to help set this up, and when war was declared, she remained to nurse wounded soldiers - British, French, and German alike. The system involved nurses being sent to the front line to tend to the wounded and accompany them back to the hospital.
Brussels surrendered to the Germans in August 1914, but Edith continued to nurse and helped more than 200 soldiers to escape, including six from Norfolk. Forged papers, documents, and guides were supplied with her help. Eventually discovered, she was imprisoned for 10 weeks before being tried and executed on 12th October 1915.
A service was held at Norwich Cathedral in 1919 in her memory. Her statue stands proudly in the cathedral grounds.
made some banana pancakes at Playschool which were very yummy for each young tummy!
For further details about our Playschool or to arrange a visit, please call: 07796 044277 or email: esplayschool@gmail.com
Edgar Sewter Out of School & Holiday Club
Join us for breakfast club from 8am/After School Club from 3:30-6pm with flexible pick up times to suit individual needs.
We're open term time Monday-
Friday and during the school holidays.
Book now for May half term and summer holidays we offer half, full days or just a few hours from 8am with flexible arrival and pick up times. We welcome children from all schools. We've been established over 25 years with qualified staff and a wealth of experience. To book a place or arrange a visit, please call: 07796 044277 or email: esplayschool@gmail.com
JUNE 4TH - 6TH
Art Show & Sale
United Reformed Church, Southwold
10am-4pm. Annual spring show of paintings & local artists cards.
JUNE 5TH
H is for Hawk (12A) Electric Picture Palace, Southwold
7pm. 2025 docudrama. After losing her beloved father, Helen (Claire Foy) finds herself saved by an unlikely friendship with a stubborn hawk named Mabel. For tickets/film society membership info, please email: boxoffice@ southwoldcinema.co.uk
JUNE 5TH & 6TH
A Summer Night at the Musicals Thorington Theatre
7pm-8:40pm. Presented by Wise Owl Theatre. Suitable for all. Feat. a talented cast of musical theatre performers, accompanied live on piano & percussion, this uplifting concert celebrates some of the most loved songs from the world of musicals. From £20pp.
JUNE 6TH
A Question of Attribution & An Englishman Abroad (U/PG) Electric Picture Palace, Southwold 7pm. 2 Alan Bennett spy plays: 'A Question of Attribution', 1991, James Fox plays Sir Anthony Blunt, who spied for Russia for 25yrs whilst curating & archiving the Queen's pictures. Then, 'An Englishman Abroad', 1983 drama/comedy. Entertaining tale with Alan Bates as Guy Burgess exiled in Moscow in a
true life encounter with actress Coral Browne in the 1960s. For tickets/film society membership info, please email: boxoffice@ southwoldcinema.co.uk
JUNE 7TH
Donut Day Halesworth (Holton) Airfield Museum 2pm. Honouring the 'Donut Dollies' of WWII, Korea, & Vietnam. Discover the history of the Red Cross Clubmobiles & the women who boosted military morale with coffee & a taste of home. Free admission.
JUNE 11TH
Luke Wright: Later Life Letter (12+)
Thorington Theatre
7pm-8:40pm. Acclaimed poet Luke Wright blends stand-up & poetry in this funny, moving, & refreshingly honest show about adoption & family. From £20pp.
JUNE 12TH
Murder at the Crippengate Hotel by Kate Ellis:
A Murder Mystery Dinner
Southwold Arts Centre
7pm. Join a 1925-themed murder mystery dinner feat. original story by best-selling author Kate Ellis, where you'll help solve the poisoning of local businessman Charlie Montgomery while enjoying a 2-course meal provided by Café 51. £20pp. Attendees not required to participate in any acting. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 12TH
Recalling The Greats (12+) Thorington Theatre
7pm-9:15pm. Presented by Xplosion. Back by popular
JUNE 13TH
demand! For 15yrs, this powerhouse ensemble has been wowing audiences with the timeless hits of soul & Motown. From £32pp.
JUNE 12TH
The Party (U)
Electric Picture Palace, Southwold 7pm. 1968 comedy/drama.
A clerical mistake results in a bumbling Indian film star (Peter Sellers) being invited to an exclusive Hollywood party instead of being fired. For tickets/film society membership info, please email: boxoffice@ southwoldcinema.co.uk
JUNE 12TH
Charity Music Bingo
The Queen's Head, Bramfield 7:30pm start. '80's extravaganza' theme. Numbers replaced with clips of well-known 80's songs. Book: 01986 784214. £6 per card. Prizes for a line & full house. Raising funds for Halesworth's Pear Tree Fund
JUNE 13TH
Produce Market
St. Mary's Church, Halesworth 9am-1pm. Local producers, crafts, refreshments. For stall enquiries, contact Geoff: 07818 060876.
JUNE 13TH
Millicent Binks
Southwold Arts Centre
10am. Join author & former performer Millicent Binks for an engaging presentation on her latest cosy mystery, Murder at the Scottish Ball, which follows amateur sleuth Opal Laplume as she investigates a fatal accident at a 1934 Christmas gala. £7pp. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
Rory Kinnear:
Toward the Light (12+) Thorington Theatre
11am-11:50am. Presented by Britten Pears Arts. Maeterlinck & Yeats among the flowers: a very special morning of poetry & prose in the woodlands, presented by Rory Kinnear. From £10pp.
JUNE 13TH
Andrew Hunter Murray
Southwold Arts Centre
11:30am. Join acclaimed author & broadcaster Andrew Hunter Murray for a discussion of his latest thriller, Bad Deeds, which follows a former professional security consultant who finds himself entangled in a dangerous investigation in the Scottish Highlands. £7pp.
Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 13TH
Harriet Tyce
Southwold Arts Centre
2pm. Join acclaimed author & former criminal barrister Harriet Tyce as she discusses her gripping novel, Witch Trial, which follows a high-stakes murder case involving 2 teenage girls & a skeptical juror who must navigate a media frenzy to uncover the dark truth behind the tragedy. £7pp.
Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 13TH
Elly Griffiths
Southwold Arts Centre
3:30pm. Join best-selling author Elly Griffiths as she discusses her latest novel, The Killing Time, a gripping mystery that follows Detective Ali Dawson on a highstakes journey through time to Victorian London as she balances a present-day investigation with an urgent search for her missing cat. £7pp. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
PRODUCE MARKET
Saturday 13th June
JUNE 13TH
Julie Wassmer
Southwold Arts Centre
5pm. Join celebrated TV writer Julie Wassmer for an event feat. Murder at St. Alfred's, the latest installment in her popular Whitstable Pearl mystery series, as she discusses how a shocking discovery on hallowed ground threatens to derail detective Pearl Nolan's upcoming wedding. £7pp. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 13TH
Rain Man (15) Electric Picture Palace, Southwold 7pm. 1988 Oscar winning comedy/drama. After a selfish LA yuppie (Tom Cruise) learns his estranged father left a fortune to an autistic-savant brother (Dustin Hoffman) that he didn't know existed, he absconds with his brother & sets out across the country. For tickets/film society membership info, please email: boxoffice@southwold cinema.co.uk
JUNE 13TH
Fun Crime Quiz Night:
Elementary My Dear Watson Southwold Arts Centre 7pm. Vaguely crime-related quiz rounds suitable for all. Teams of up to 4. Bar provided, BYO snacks. Raffle. £3pp. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 14TH
Salman Shaheen Southwold Arts Centre 10am. Join author & journalist Salman Shaheen as he discusses his debut novel, Freebourne, a suspenseful mystery about a man whose quest for a fresh start in a quiet English town is upended when he arrives to find a body & becomes the prime suspect in a dark, conspiracy. £7pp. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 14TH
Nicci French Southwold Arts Centre 11:30am. Join the acclaimed writing duo Nicci French for a discussion of their latest thriller, What Happened That Night, which follows a man recently released from a 30yr prison sentence who finds himself a suspect once more when a reunion with old friends ends in another mysterious death. £7pp. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 14TH
3-course Indian Lunch
Sibton Church, IP17 2LX
1pm. Hosted by Friends of St. Peter's Church Sibton, in aid of Suffolk-based Al Tazid Foundation charity. Bangladeshi chefs at Royal Jorna (Ipswich) prepare the food. BYOB. All proceeds towards prevention of extreme poverty in N.E. Bangladesh. There will be a raffle to help boost the fund. Tickets (cash on the day) adults £25pp; U16's £5pp. Email: sibtonchurchfriends@gmail.com with the number in your party by June 12th.
JUNE 14TH
Anna Mazzola & Abir Mukherjee
Southwold Arts Centre 2pm. Join acclaimed authors Anna Mazzola & Abir Mukherjee for a double-bill event exploring their latest thrillers, feat. a gripping tale of political corruption & missing sisters in Notes on a Drowning & a high-stakes mystery set within the luxury confines of a Mumbai skyscraper in The Pinnacle. £7pp. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 14TH
Simon Brett
Southwold Arts Centre 3:30pm. Join award-winning crime writer & OBE recipient Simon Brett for a discussion of his latest mystery. £7pp. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 14TH
Writing Workshop with Millicent Binks
Southwold Arts Centre 5pm. Join author Millicent Binks for this engaging 1hr workshop where you'll learn to brainstorm the essential elements of a unique mystery novel, incl. motives, red herrings, & twists. £7pp. Part of Slaughter in Southwold.
JUNE 16TH
'Garden Bugs: CohabitControl or Conserve?' Talk by Dr. Ian Bedford The Cut, Halesworth 2pm. Presented by Halesworth & District U3A. Learn how to manage garden pests effectively without chemicals. Highlighting the importance of supporting local biodiversity & offering practical, nature-friendly techniques to protect your plants & preserve wildlife. Free for U3A members;
£4 for non-members (available in adv./OTD). All welcome.
JUNE 18TH
Admiral (15) Electric Picture Palace, Southwold 7pm. 2015 war/action. When The Netherlands is attacked by England, France, & Germany, & the country is on the brink of civil war, only one man can lead the country's strongest weapon, the Dutch fleet: Michiel de Ruyter. For tickets/film society membership info, email: boxoffice@southwold cinema.co.uk
JUNE 19TH - 21ST Beers & Beats Weekender
The Randolph, Reydon • 19th: Richard Hill live music from 6pm. • 20th: BBQ/hog roast served 12pm-3:30pm. Live music from 12:30pm with 'The Bakery', followed by 'Class of Britpop' from 4:30pm.
• 21st: BBQ/hog roast served 12pm-3:30pm. Live music from 12:30pm with 'The Austin Beats!' Free entry.
JUNE 19TH
The Devil Wears Prada (PG) Electric Picture Palace, Southwold 7pm. Aspiring journalist Andy (Anne Hathaway) lands a job as an assistant to Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), the cynical editor of a top fashion magazine. For tickets/film society membership info, please email: boxoffice@ southwoldcinema.co.uk
JUNE 19TH
Bowjangles (12+) Thorington Theatre 7pm. In this high-energy show, Bowjangles blends virtuoso musicianship with physical comedy, soaring vocals, & improbable dancing. £32pp.
JUNE 20TH
Meet the Moths Dunwich Heath & Beach (Meet by Heath Barn) 10:15am-11am. Dunwich Heath is home to a wonderful variety of amazing moth species which come in all shapes, colours & sizes. Find out more about them & get a chance to see them close up with one of our rangers! Free event (venue admission applies), no booking needed. Children welcome.
JUNE 20TH
Remains of The Day (U) Electric Picture Palace, Southwold 7pm. 1993 romance/drama. A butler (Anthony Hopkins) sacrifices love for duty in 1930s England. For tickets/film society membership info, email: boxoffice@southwold cinema.co.uk
JUNE 20TH
Songs For A Midsummer Evening The Cut, Halesworth 7:30pm. An evening of song & poetry celebrating summer & the natural world, presented by Halesworth Harmony. £10pp.
JUNE 20TH
Honey & The Bear (12+) Thorington Theatre
7:30pm-10pm. Folk & roots duo Lucy & Jon Hart deliver a captivating, multi-instrumental show feat. guest stars Evan Carson & Archie Churchill-Moss. From £25pp.
JUNE 24TH & 25TH
Royal Norfolk Show 2026
Norfolk Showground
The UK's largest 2-day agricultural event, themed "Celebrating Culture & Collaboration." This vibrant celebration features 3,000+ animals, an extensive food & drink showcase, 700 trade stands, thrilling Grand Ring entertainment, & unique opportunities to explore local innovation & community spirit. Free parking & plenty of family-friendly activities, it's an essential date for your diary. For tickets & full programme details, visit royalnorfolkshow.co.uk
JUNE 24TH
Sonnets & Songs for a Suffolk Summer Solstice
Wrentham Chapel
7pm. All welcome to this special Cædmon evening to celebrate mid-summer in our beautiful county. Feat. a programme of music, word & song, comprised of items contributed by audience members. Light buffet during interval with wine & juice. No charge, donations towards the chapel gratefully received. For details, contact Sue Hardy: 07771 882738.
JUNE 25TH
never-2-late.com
The Cut, Halesworth
7:30pm. Presented by Charmed Life Productions. A witty, music-filled drama that challenges societal prejudices about later-life romance as a couple's sudden engagement triggers a frantic intervention from their skeptical family. £14pp.
JUNE 26TH
Golden Anniversary Appeal Fund Cèilidh Reydon Village Hall
7pm-10pm. With Once Bittern Ceilidh Band. £15pp incl. buffet. BYO alcohol. Soft drinks & snacks available. Book tickets in adv. with Charlotte: 07715 388916, email: frogclock@hotmail.com or online: ticketsource.co.uk/ reydonvillagehall. All funds towards repairing, renovating & refitting Reydon Village Hall.
JUNE 26TH
Brief Encounter (PG)
Electric Picture Palace, Southwold 7pm. Oscar-nominated 1945 black & white romance/ drama. Meeting a stranger in a railway station, a woman is tempted to cheat on her husband. For tickets/film society membership info, please email: boxoffice@ southwoldcinema.co.uk
JUNE 26TH Fiasco!
Thorington Theatre
7:30pm-9:30pm. Blending violin, clarinet, accordion, & cello, Fiasco! delivers a breathtaking mix of folk, jazz, tango, & classical music. A vibrant, must-see musical romp. Suitable for all. £25pp.
JUNE 27TH
Wenhaston Produce & Craft Market
Wenhaston Village Hall
10am-12:30pm. A wide & ever-changing range of local food, produce, crafts, plants, home baking & pre-loved treasures. New stallholders always welcome. Stall fee £10. To book your stall (provided) call: Carol 01502 478732 or email: caz-mike@outlook.com. Raising funds for Village Hall maintenance.
JUNE 27TH
Chicago (12A)
Electric Picture Palace, Southwold 7pm. Oscar-award winning 2002 crime/comedy musical. 2 death-row murderesses develop a rivalry while competing for publicity & a sleazy lawyer's attention. For tickets/ film society membership info, please email: boxoffice@ southwoldcinema.co.uk
JUNE 27TH
The Last Cuckoo Thorington Theatre
7:30pm-8:15pm. A magically funny, poignant play feat. an eccentric ornithologist. As he navigates life in a remote cottage, his ruminations on the natural world lead to an unforgettable journey of self-discovery & change. Suitable for all. From £18pp.
JUNE 28TH
The Scarlet Pimpernel Thorington Theatre
6pm-8:30pm. A sharp, hilarious, & high-octane retelling of the classic swashbuckler. With just 3 actors, a mountain of wigs, & sheer nerve, this production hurtles from revolutionary France to Regency England. Suitable for all. From £22pp.
All event details are correct to the best of our knowledge at time of printing; however, we recommend checking with organisers before you travel to confirm the latest info.
Got an upcoming event you'd like to promote? or email details to: edit@micropress.co.uk
List it for FREE in our Halesworth & Southwold papers to reach more than 16,500 local people! Call Karen on 01502 725 836
• NHS and Private Treatment for Adults and Children
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Dental Implants
Quay Street, Halesworth 01986 872113
Daniel F M Evans B.D.S., M.F.G.D.P. 706808
June at Halesworth Library
Did you know that the library can deliver books and audiobooks straight to your door? If you're unable to visit the library, one of our friendly volunteers can come to you. Please contact us on 01986 506062 for more details.
The library hosts regular activities and drop-ins. Come and join us every Tuesday during term time, 10am-11:30am, for a free Rhyme Time & Play session to sing fun songs, followed by free play with our toys. Refreshments are also provided for parents!
Wednesdays from 10am, our Time Out sociable group for older people meets for tea and biscuits. The Knit & Natter group meets alternate Tuesdays, 2:30pm-4:30pm. We also have a new Mah-jong Group that meets on the first Friday of the month, 2pm-4pm. At this early stage, the group is open to experienced players; if you have your own Mah-jong set, please bring it along.
Lego Club runs every Saturday, 11am-12pm, and Family Fun Time every Sunday, 10:30am-11:30am. You can also drop in for advice from the East Suffolk Council customer services team every Tuesday, 10am-4pm, and Citizens Advice
are here alternate Tuesdays, 10am-12pm. Please ask a member of staff for more details.
The Friends of Halesworth Library invite you to join us for Sociable Sundays on June 14th and 28th. Meet new people and enjoy a chat over cake and a cuppa in the library! Pop in anytime between 10:30am12:30pm. Join the Friends for their Board Games Café on June 1st and 29th, from 2pm-4:30pm. There are plenty of games to choose from, or feel free to bring along your own favourites. Join us for a fun afternoon, meet new friends, and enjoy tea and cake! Suggested donation is £1 to the Friends of the Library, who kindly volunteer to run these events. Come and join us for our regular Monthly Book Talk on June 4th at 7pm. The Friends of Halesworth Library will be hosting Natalie Meg Evans: 'Love, Loss and the Blitz: Why I
write stories of the Second World War'. Natalie is an award-winning local author based in Cratfield and a long-term supporter of Halesworth Library. Entry is free, but please book a place. Email: thefriendsofhalesworthlibrary@ gmail.com or phone the library. And finally! Would you like to volunteer with us over the summer to help deliver our summer reading programme for children? The Reading Quest takes place again this year, and we're looking for volunteers to help us! Please fill out an application form online and we will be in touch (visit the "Volunteer with Us" section on the Suffolk Community Libraries website). Don't forget that we'll be hosting a range of activities throughout the summer holidays to keep your children entertained, keep an eye out for more details nearer the time, both in the library and on our Facebook page!
Neat Feet
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“PROFeSSIONaL FOOt caRe” in your own home
Angela Moore
Six scientists
Halesworth's own wartime mystery
It's been discovered that six physicists (one with a close association with Nobel laureate Ernest Rutherford) were living in Halesworth in 1939 as part of the war effort. Each one was a 'Civilian Scientist Employed by the Air Ministry (for duration of war)', according to the 1939 Register.
This finding, just one of many surprises emerging from the recently launched Halesworth History Map housed at Halesworth & District Museum, was made by the map's developer, Simon Parker. As he recalls, the presence of these men in our town at such a critical time in history triggered a host of questions: Who were they? Why were they here? Where did they go?
Via the map, Simon found that the scientists, aged 23 to 37, came from widely diverse backgrounds. Between them, they represented England, Scotland, and Wales; not one was from Suffolk or Norfolk. Their social backgrounds ranged from the coalfields of Durham to the aristocracy. Three would go on to become eminent scientists, two became civil servants, and two died as millionaires in modern terms.
While the details of the war work conducted by these men in Halesworth remain secret or difficult to access, Simon did unearth some intriguing clues. Notably, three physicists from Imperial College (Cochrane, Stephens, and Wynn-Williams) were housed together at the Angel Hotel, along with an engineer from a company associated with the development of radar. Moreover, the son of Wynn-Williams recalls his father spending the early years of the war driving from radar station to radar station, fixing faults and making improvements. Simon conjectures: "Were these three men, and perhaps the engineer they were billeted
with, part of a team passing through Halesworth as radar fixers? Bawdsey, Darsham, and Saxmundham were all stations in the Chain Home system of radar defence."
So who were these wartime residents?
• William Cochrane: Born in Glasgow, he was an academic physicist at Imperial College London. He was later appointed head of physics at St. Thomas' Hospital in 1952.
• Raymond William Barrow Stephens: An acoustics expert from Imperial College who received several international honours for his research after the war.
• Charles Eryl WynnWilliams: Supervised by Ernest Rutherford at Cambridge, his research contributed to the discovery of the neutron and the development of the 'Heath Robinson' machine used to crack German naval signals.
• Stephen Humphreys-Owen: A research student and pilot officer from a wealthy landowning family. On his death in 1960, his estate was valued at the equivalent of £3.4 million today.
• Ronald Bruce: A young research physicist (only 23 in 1939) who had emigrated to North America as a child but returned to the UK for his career.
• George Hutchinson: A physicist from Durham billeted at 48 Quay Street. The Halesworth History Map is available free of charge at Halesworth & District Museum. It's advisable to book a time via email: curator@ halesworthmuseum.org.uk. Additionally, the next Museum talk 'A Halesworth doctor in his times: Petrus Johannes de Nyssen' will take place on May 21st at Halesworth United Reformed Church at 7:30pm. Entrance is £6 (£3 for Friends).
Here at First Choice Home Care Halesworth, we're always looking to take on empathetic, compassionate Carers. We're a continuously growing team, who always require the most caring people who enjoy making a di erence to someone's day. We o er:
• £14.25hr & 35p per mile mileage.
• Ongoing training
• Free uniform & DBS
• PPE
• Flexibilty in the days you work
As a branch, we pride ourselves on our open door policy, where we encourage all sta to come in have a chat, cup of tea in between calls. 01986 800227
Halesworth Day Centre, The Old Courthouse, London Road, Halesworth, IP19 8LW
Halesworth Museum
Strutt Your Mutt Charity Dog Walk returns to Benacre
who
peaceful, beautiful charity walk. Tickets (£5 per adult, under 12's free) should be pre-booked online at: struttyourmutt.co.uk, or if unable to access online can be purchased from the Wangford Veterinary Clinic reception.
Event details:
and £50 plus a hearing dogs or Strutt Your Mutt t-shirt. Collecting sponsorship is optional.
• Date: Sunday 7th June 2026
• Location: Woodfarm Barns, Benacre, NR34 7BL (just off the A12)
we have a JustGiving page where you can donate or share on your own social media. Just go to: justgiving.com/campaign/ struttyourmutt2026
Best Independent Small Animal Clinic, Suffolk 2026
April 2002 and is owned by Walter Stöhr, BVSc (Pret) MRCVS. Over the years, it's become a trusted name for pet owners seeking high quality, personalised veterinary care.
We have missed this very special event and in order to protect the local environment, manage site capacity responsibly, and maximise charitable donations, the event has moved away from the previous large scale dog show format and returned to its original focus: a
• Extras: Rosettes for dogs at the end of the walk. There will be refreshments (tea coffee, cake etc) at the finish where you can sit down with your dog and put your feet up.
For anyone unable to attend but would like to help raise funds for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People,
The sizzle of Suffolk BBQ season is here!
As the June sunshine starts
lighter and the first hiss of the BBQ grill. BBQ season has officially arrived in our corner of East
Anglia. From the riverside gardens of Beccles and Bungay to the rolling meadows surrounding Halesworth, smoke is rising, and tables are being laid outdoors.
But while the temptation might be to grab a pre-packaged pack of burgers from a supermarket shelf during the weekly shop, there's a far more flavourful (and meaningful) way to celebrate the season. The butcher's difference
We're incredibly fortunate to live in a region defined by its agricultural heritage. In Suffolk, "farm to fork" isn't a marketing slogan; it's a way of life. When you walk into your local highstreet butcher, whether it's in the heart of Halesworth or a
family-run shop in Bungay, you aren't just buying meat. You're buying expertise, provenance, and quality that mass-production simply cannot replicate.
Our local butchers source from livestock raised in the lush pastures right here in the Waveney Valley and surrounding countryside. This means fewer food miles, a smaller carbon footprint, and meat that's been properly aged and prepared with pride. A hand-pressed burger from a local shop stays juicy on the grill; a supermarket equivalent often shrinks to a shadow of its former self. Ask your butcher for a recommendation and you'll taste the difference in every bite.
Supporting our local shops
We at Wangford Vets are also so excited to share the news that we've officially been named Suffolk's Best Independent Small Animal Clinic, securing a prestigious title that recognises outstanding standards in veterinary medicine, client service and its strong ties to the community.
The clinic first opened its doors in
The whole team are absolutely thrilled to receive this award, describing it as a wonderful recognition of their passion, hard work and commitment to the pets and people of Suffolk. They would like to send heartfelt thanks to their loyal clients for their continued support.
The Suffolk Summer Burger (recipe below!)
is about more than just a better meal; it's about keeping the heart of our market towns beating for the next generation.
Beyond the grill:
The full local spread
Halesworth, and Southwold remains intact. So, before you host your next garden gathering, take a stroll down your high street. Chat with the butcher, browse the greengrocer's crates, and pick up a bottle of something special from the local vintner.
Your guests will thank you for the flavour, and your community will thank you for the support.
A great BBQ is about more than just the protein. It's the crisp lettuce and sun-ripened tomatoes from the greengrocer, the crusty rolls baked that morning in a Beccles oven, and the artisan cheeses that make a burger truly gourmet. Even the condiments tell a story when they come from a local deli, featuring chutneys and preserves made by hand just a few miles away.
Shopping locally also offers something a selfcheckout machine never will: a conversation. Our shopkeepers know their craft. They can tell you exactly which cut of meat works best for a slow-smoke, or which local cider from nearby will pair perfectly with your chicken wings. This exchange of knowledge turns a simple meal into a community event.
Invest in your community
As we light the charcoal this June, let's remember that every pound spent in our local independent shops is an investment in the future of our towns. It keeps our high streets vibrant, supports local farmers, and ensures that the unique character of Beccles, Bungay,
Happy grilling, Suffolk!
To help you get started, we've put together a recipe that showcases the very best of our local larder, from Bungay's famous cheeses to the finest Waveney Valley beef.
RECIPE
The Suffolk Summer Burger A gourmet twist on a classic, featuring the best of Beccles, Bungay, Halesworth, and Southwold.
• Prep time: 15 mins
• Cook time: 10 mins
• Serves: 4 Ingredients:
• 700g coarsely minced chuck steak from your local butcher.
• 4 thick slices of Baron Bigod (the iconic Brie-style cheese made just outside Bungay).
• 4 fresh brioche or sourdough rolls from a local bakery.
1. Prep the Patties: Gently shape your mince into four thick patties. Season generously with sea salt and cracked black pepper. Pro tip: Use your thumb to make a small indent in the centre of each patty, this prevents them from "doming" on the grill.
2. Fire up the Grill: Get your charcoal white-hot. Sear the burgers for 3-4 minutes per side for a perfect medium.
3. The Bigod Melt: During the last minute of cooking, place a generous slice of Baron Bigod on each patty. Close the BBQ lid briefly to let the cheese become gooey and golden.
4. Toast the Buns: Slice your rolls and place them cut-side down on the edge of the grill for 30 seconds until lightly toasted.
5. Assemble: Spread a layer of local chutney on the bottom bun. Add the lettuce, the cheesy patty, and the sliced tomatoes.
6. The Perfect Pour: Serve immediately alongside a chilled glass of local cider or a crisp ale from a Southwold brewery.
• Toppings: Crisp tomatoes and gem lettuce from a local greengrocer. Red onion marmalade or a local aleinfused chutney. A splash of local Suffolk cider for deglazing the onions. Method:
7. Enjoy!
A word from our competition winner
In March, Community News
ran a competition where readers could be in with a chance of winning tickets to this years' East Anglian Game & Country Fair. The fair was held at the Euston Estate, in Thetford on the weekend of April 25th and 26th.
Following our competition, we were thrilled to hear back from one of our lucky winners, Maxine, who attended the fair on April 25th. It's wonderful to hear that she and her friend (along with a very excited four-legged companion) had such a fantastic experience enjoying the sunshine and the spectacular displays.
Here is what Maxine had to say about her day at the show: "We had a great day at the show
and luckily enough we went on the Saturday 25 April - the best day for the sun. Took my friend and her dog who was so excited meeting the other dogs there. There was tasty food and drink to try out and
I saw horse boarding for the first time in the arena. So much to see and do - a very well organised event."
We're so glad you had a great time Maxine!
Malcolm McMillan
07/08/1948
- 11/02/2026
Frances, Louise, Donna and all the family would like to express their heartfelt thanks for all the help, love, kindness and continued support following the passing of Malcolm.
The family are overwhelmed by all the cards, messages, flowers and hugs received and each and every single one meant so much at a very traumatic time.
Since December 2025, Malcolm suffered symptoms and was diagnosed with an aggressive terminal cancer. He spent most of that time in the Norfolk & Norwich Hospital where he
received wonderful care, before moving home in February where he spent his last week of his life with his family by his side. We thank the community palliative care team and district nurses for their compassion, empathy and giving him the care and dignity he deserved.
His funeral took place on Friday 13th March 2026. It was overwhelming to see the number of people who came to pay their respects and to help celebrate his life. A special thank you to Rev. Vic Hopkins for the wonderful service and to Faith at
Rosedale in Halesworth for her amazing help and support, also to the Halesworth Golf Club for facilitating the wake. Thank you to Mike and the dogs Penny, Tweed and Misty who held a place in Malcolm's heart and made the service so special.
Thank you also to everyone who attended the service and for all the generous donations to The Dogs Trust, Snetterton. A total of £1,019 was raised. Malcolm was very much loved by his family and will remain in our hearts and memories always and forever.
Bakew l
Ice Cream Cookies
Serve up a plateful of cookies and this hack version of cherry almond ice-cream then let family and friends go wild creating their own version of perfection!
Recipe by Rebecca Bishop, The Next Loaf, thenextloaf.co.uk
- Prepare your baking sheet with lining paper or a silicone mat.
- Weigh the almonds, brown sugar, caster sugar, baking powder and almond extract into a large bowl.
- Mix to combine, rubbing the essence into the dry ingredients.
- Using a stand mixer or electric beaters, whip the egg whites for 6-10 minutes until stiff peaks have formed.
- Fold the egg white gradually into the almond mix, then portion the mix into 40g balls.
- Place the balls of cookie dough into your baking sheet and gently press down to create a 5mm thin disc (aim to make all your cookies the same size so that you can 'sandwich' them together later).
- Push some flaked almonds onto the top of each cookie and dust generously with icing sugar.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until crisp and golden then allow to cool.
- To make your sandwich filling allow a tub of good quality vanilla ice-cream (I love Suffolk meadow www.suffolkmeadow. co.uk) to soften slightly then combine with chopped fresh cherry and toasted flaked almonds.
- Re-freeze until spreadable then serve with the cookies (or assemble beforehand and store in your freezer).
Dairy now has farm shops at Eye Airfield and at Darsham on the A12 as well as at Fen Farm.
restaurants and delis worldwide. The Crickmore's have subsequently produced Raedwald cheese. They are also known for their Bungay Butter. Fen Farm
Tickets at £12, to include a glass of wine (or soft drink) on arrival and a wide range of cheeses for tasting during the interval, are available from Beccles Books, Exchange Square, or John and Sue Bailey 07774 749201.
Updates from Halesworth Volunteers and a celebration of their milestone anniversary
An update from Halesworth Volunteers (HV).
Community Car Service
Our Community Car Service continues to be busy and throughout April, our amazing team of volunteers covered over 500 trips! If you're interested in joining us as a new volunteer driver, we'd love to hear from you. Our Community Car Service phone number is 01986 874290.
Isolation Busters
Isolation Busting is about combatting loneliness by bringing people together through befriending, lunches, afternoon teas and trips. If you'd like to discover more about Isolation Busters, our programme of events and dates, befriending or shopping support please give us a call on 01986 875600 or email: info@halesworthvolunteers.org
Community Lunch
Our next Community Lunch is on May 27th from 1pm-3pm in St. Mary's Church. Come and join us for a warm bowl of soup, sandwiches, cakes and a tea or coffee, everyone welcome, there's no need to book.
Chinnys Social
On the first Tuesday of every month, we meet at the Events Bar at Chinny's for Coffee and Chat, everyone's welcome make new friends and a chance to enjoy some delicious food on offer at Chinnys.
Our next date is June 2nd, from 12pm-2pm.
Halesworth Community Larder
The Larder continues to support people by offering a range of fresh and stock cupboard essentials at the bargain price of £3 per basket.
Open to everyone, the Larder is available at St. Mary's Church Hall every Monday Wednesday and Saturday 10am-11:30am.
Our volunteers look forward to welcoming you!
Kingsley's Reverse London Marathon
On April 26th, Kingsley Elliff completed the "reverse" London Marathon; starting at midnight and running the London Marathon route in reverse to raise vital funds for HV. Despite some physical challenges on race day, Kingsley crossed the finishing line in 8 hours and has so far raised nearly £1,000, an amazing achievement!
Our grateful thanks go to Kingsley for this epic fundraiser. It's not too late to donate, please either pop into our office or visit: justgiving.com/campaign/ kingsleyreverselondonmarathon
100 Club
Our 100 club is up and running, with our first numbers drawn at the end of April. Our lucky winning numbers for April were; 34, 13 and 11. Congratulations to our winners, collecting prizes of £100, £50 and £25. If you haven't already signed up and would like to join, it's not too late! For just £60 per year, you can be part of our monthly draw, with all profits going to supporting our vital services. Just call us on 01986 875600 if you'd like to become a member and we'll let you have more information and how to pay.
Quiz
Our fundraising quiz night continues on the 3rd Wednesday of each month in The Stables, at the Angel, 8pm start. Our quizmaster Chris, has introduced some new twists to quiz night, the much-loved joker round and the opportunity for the losing team to pick the theme for a round the following month. The next two dates are May 20th and June
17th. For a small charge of £2 per person, you can have a fun night of quizzing, with the winning team taking home a small prize. Teams of 4 are ideal, with a prize draw and nibbles served in the interval.
INK Festival
For four days from April 16th, HV were proud to support visitors to the INK Festival, providing a brilliant and unique theatre experience at the "Larder Palladium". Our team of volunteers also baked and offered refreshments to theatre goers at the Rifle Hall over the weekend, raising over £1,000 to support our projects. Our thanks go to the INK team for offering us this opportunity, which was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone who took part.
Wootten's Plant Sale
On May 3rd, Wootten's Nursery kindly invited HV to provide a cake stall at their plant sale at Wenhaston. It was a brilliant turn out and a great success for HV, boosting our funds by over £500. Thank you to Wootten's and everyone who bought our cakes.
Annual Parish Meeting
The Halesworth Town Council's Annual Parish Meeting takes place in the town park on Saturday 16th May from 3pm-8:30pm. HV will have a presence at the event and we'll also be launching our community Volunteering Strategy Campaign along with other local voluntary organisations during the afternoon, so come along and say hello!
Pacing to Paget 2gether
Pacing to Paget is back this year in the form of Pacing to Paget 2gether. Our intrepid volunteer Shaun enjoyed his Pacing to Paget experience last year so much, he is back for more and wants to transform pacing into £'s for HV.
This time he has invited friends to share the pain of 80k! On June 3rd, Shaun will be walking 40km around Halesworth and out to some of the villages. In addition to this, we have some fabulous friends who will be clocking up another 40km on the treadmill at Perform Fitness (Behind Chinnys and Men's Shed) If you'd like to join in the fun and support us by either walking with Shaun or clocking up a few k's on the treadmill please do get in touch. If you'd like to donate, please see: justgiving.com/campaign/ pacing2paget2gether. Or we have sponsor forms in the office. 40th Anniversary Celebration This year, HV celebrates 40 years of supporting the community and making lives better. The charity has grown since the 1980's, originally helping people with odd jobs around the home. Very soon, it became clear that people were in need of support with transport, and the Community Car Service soon followed. Of course, our muchloved Car Service is still running
today, along with our Isolation Busters project and Community Larder. HV started life in Waveney Local Office where we remained based for almost 40 years, moving into the new offices behind the Patrick Stead Day Care Centre in January 2025. There have been many changes over the years, but one thing that hasn't changed is the commitment and dedication of our volunteers, who go above and beyond to ensure that local people live happier and healthier lives. In 2022 we were delighted to receive recognition of the outstanding work that was carried out during the Covid 19 pandemic, with HV receiving the Queens Award for Volunteering. The highest award a charity can receive.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the success of HV over the years, our volunteers, trustees, staff team and to all the
organisations and businesses who have supported us and been a part of our journey and of course to the community of Halesworth and surrounding villages, who are always behind us, supporting our events and activities. It has been a busy year so far and we have more events planned, including an 80's musical bingo evening at Westhall Racehorse and Gardeners Question Time, in September. We will keep you posted with dates and details. To celebrate reaching this incredible milestone, HV will be hosting a party in the Rifle Hall on June 4th at 7pm. If you're one of our wonderful volunteers, or a retired volunteer we'd love to see you on the 4th June to help us celebrate. We couldn't have done it without you.
Karen Kerridge, Director
News from the Halesworth branch of Cancer Research UK
I can't believe that we're already in
By the time you read this, we'll have completed our Spring Fair in Holton Village Hall. I'll let everyone know how we got on in the next edition of Community News.
We have two smaller, but no less important, events in June.
We'll have a stall at The Classic Car Day on June 21st at Holton Village Hall. Please look out for us; I hope we'll have something to tempt you!
We also have our street collection in Halesworth, which takes place over two days. On June 26th, we'll be in the town outside The Angel and Coopers, and on June 27th, we'll be at The Co-op. We're very grateful for any amount you kindly pop into our collecting goblets, as every penny really does count. Unfortunately, we can't accept "tap and go" payments. We apologise for any inconvenience. Please say hello to our volunteer collectors if you see them, as it will brighten their day! Our next big event is our week in the I-Chameleon popup shop from July 2nd-8th. We hope to have our usual extras each day outside the shop: cakes on Saturday, Ukuleles on Tuesday, Jane's plants on Friday, and more. We welcome any saleable items
of bric-a-brac; please contact me if you have anything suitable.
Advance notice: The Old Hall Café has very generously offered to host The Maze By Torchlight for us again this year. This is a really fun evening whatever your age! The date is August 21st. Please check The Old Hall website nearer the time to buy tickets online.
Thank you all so much for supporting us as we raise money for Cancer Research. You are making a real difference and saving lives!
For more information, please contact me, Dawn Davis on: 01986 873640.
Blyth Valley Parkinson's Support Group news
In April, we were pleased to welcome the Community Engagement Officer for Suffolk who gave a lot of information about what she does.
On May 14th, we had our Annual Coffee Morning in Wenhaston Village Hall. I'll report on this next month. In June, we have Disability Advice Suffolk coming to talk to us, so that should be very interesting. We at Blyth Valley Parkinson's Support run a group for people with Parkinson's as well as
their partners/carers, which is a friendly meeting on the second Thursday of most months, in Holton Village Hall from 10:30am-12pm. We normally have a speaker on some relevant subject and time to chat and share experiences over a cup of tea/ coffee. Everyone's welcome to attend our meetings. For further information, please contact either:
• Margaret: 01502 478502 margaret@wrush.plus.com
• Gail: 01502 817004 aandgattfield@btinternet.com
Holton & Blyford Village Hall
Holton Car Show
Holton & Blyford Village Hall are thrilled to announce that their annual free Car Show at the hall is back on June 21st!
This year is extra special as SR Body Repair East Anglia Ltd have proudly teamed up with them as the official event sponsor. Based just down the road in Redisham, SR Body Repair are a five-star-rated vehicle repair specialist offering everything from bodywork to mechanical repairs. Whether it's accident damage, a full respray, or general repairs, their expert team have you covered.
Why check them out?
• One of the largest spray booths in the area (large vans welcome!)
• Free estimates
Want to show your vehicle? Arrive on June 21st with your vehicle and you'll be shown to a place to park on the show green, booking is not essential. What to expect on the day:
• Trade and craft stalls inside the hall and outside on the grass (booking is essential for these) Contact Wendy on 07788 892838.
• Bar & BBQ • Music from our DJ • Homemade food goodies and cream teas
An update from Dee's Den charity shop
• Loan car available
• Mechanical services
• Vehicle servicing • MOT work
• Welding
• Collection and delivery service
• Vehicle recovery
Now that we've turned the corner into summer, come and see what we have to tempt you! We've extended our hours until 3pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.
• What's in store?: We have lovely summer dresses in all colours and styles, alongside a wide range of clothes for women, men, and children - all at reasonable prices. To complete any outfit, we have accessories including jewellery, shoes, sandals, and beautiful decorative scarves. You'll also find a great assortment of board games, toys, and children's books. Come and have a look!
• Media and home: We stock a wide variety of books to suit every reader, with paperbacks at 50p and hardbacks at £1 or £2. CDs and DVDs remain at only 50p. We also carry bedding, curtains, bric-a-brac, glassware, kitchenware, pictures, and photo frames.
• Online and outdoors: We currently have several small pieces of modern furniture to be sold on Gumtree, and we continue to sell select items on Vinted, eBay, and our local Marketplace to raise funds. We also have a range of donated plants and garden items available. Don't forget our delicious homemade marmalade made by Jenny, one of our volunteers - it's very popular!
• Visiting us: Everyone's
This is a free event, but donation boxes will be at the gate. All donations go towards maintenance so Holton & Blyford Village Hall can continue hosting fantastic events like this. Just visiting? No need to book, simply arrive and you'll be guided to parking. Disabled access parking is available.
welcome at Dee's Den. We have our regular discounted £1 rail of adult clothing (displayed outside if dry). If you can't see what you are looking for, please ask! It may be in the stock room or our storage shed.
• Standard hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 9:30am-1pm.
• Summer hours: Now open until 3pm on Wednesdays and Fridays. (Note: On rare occasions, we may need to close early if volunteers are unavailable; we apologise for any inconvenience.)
• Donations: We welcome donations of clean, saleable clothes, bric-a-brac, toys, games, and small furniture. Please drop these off when we are open. If you have more than two bags, we kindly ask that you deliver them on a Monday or Thursday. If you're unable to deliver, give us a call and we can arrange a collection. Please note: We only accept new and boxed electrical items. We cannot accept used pillows or duvets.
• Volunteer: If you're interested in joining the team, please call in to leave your details and pick up an application form. Thank you all for your continued support through your purchases and donations. We truly appreciate it! To contact Dee's Den, please contact Nikki on: 07733 668221.
To get in contact with SR Body Repair, call them on 01502 473918 or visit: www.srbodyrepair eastanglia.co.uk
About the show
This year, Holton & Blyford Village Hall are welcoming vehicles from all eras, from lorries to steam engines, everything's welcome!
Remembering Dick Clarke
On May 10th, Wenhaston Bowls Club held its annual tournament in memory of the late Dick Clarke.
16 players formed eight pairs, resulting in some exceptionally close games throughout the day.
Only one pair, Jake Moyes and Sarah Smith, managed to win all three games in the roundrobin stage. They progressed to the final to face Pat Gilbert and Jen Daly, who had won two of their three games (losing only to Jake and Sarah) but secured their place with the highest shot difference. The final was a closely fought match, ending in a 7-6 victory for Pat and Jen. In attendance was Dick's
widow, Jill, who kindly donated half of the prize money alongside organiser Chris Peck. A raffle was held with proceeds going to Jill's chosen charity, CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young). Between the raffle and entry fees, a total of £120 was raised.
A big thank you goes to Jill Clarke and Chris Peck for the prize money; Tom Daly and Chris for organising the event; Jennie Hambling and Elaine Peck for managing the raffle; and John Stevens for heading up the BBQ.
It was a fantastic day for everyone involved. Thank you to all the competitors.
Jake Moyes, Secretary
(L to R): Chris Peck (Organiser), Jen Daly, Jill (Dick's widow) and Pat Gilbert
Wenhaston Bowls Club
£210,000 funding boost for Suffolk projects, bringing communities together
Six organisations that support East Suffolk communities by bringing people together have been awarded a share of £210,000 from the Sizewell C Community Fund.
The latest round of funding has been presented to a wide range of projects, including sports clubs, community facilities and initiatives that promote positive mental health. With these awards, the total distributed since the fund launched just over 18 months ago now stands at around £4m.
Among the latest recipients is Catch22 Suffolk Positive Futures, a youth wellbeing programme, which has received an £11,000 grant to deliver football and boxing sessions for young people in Leiston.
Paul Knight, Project Manager, Catch22 Suffolk Positive Futures, said: "We're delighted to have received funding from the Sizewell C Community Fund. Our project will provide local young people
with more opportunities to take part in sport, promoting healthy lifestyles, confidence, teamwork and wellbeing. Activities will include boxing and football, with young people able to take part in one or both sessions on the same evening, helping them stay active and safe within their local community."
Around 30 young people currently attend the sessions in Leiston following the project's launch in October. The programme was initially made possible through funding from Sizewell C contractor Breheny Civil Engineering, as part of its social value commitments. Sessions take place every Monday from 7pm to 8pm at Leiston Leisure Centre and are open to young people aged 11 to 15.
Alfie, a young person who currently attends sessions in Leiston, added: "The Leiston football project has helped me improve my confidence. It's nice to be able to play football
and keep active with my mates in the evening when I wouldn't always get the opportunity. It's something I look forward to every week."
Across Suffolk, Catch22
Suffolk Positive Futures runs 16 projects that use sport to build teamwork, provide a safe and supportive environment and introduce young people to positive role models.
The Sizewell C Community Fund, managed by Suffolk Community Foundation, is making around £2m available each year to projects in the East Suffolk Council area. It supports initiatives that promote the economic, social, or environmental wellbeing of communities closest to, and most affected by, the construction of Sizewell C.
Other organisations to benefit from a share of this round of funding include: Darsham Village Hall, which has been awarded £82,688 to create a new village green where
community activities can take place
Westleton Village Hall, which will receive £54,000 to help fund the second phase of a refurbishment project to bring the hall up to modern standards.
1st Saxmundham Scout Group, which has been awarded £17,448 to buy new equipment and run activities for members.
Saxmundham Museum, which will receive £7,833 to help fund ongoing improvements.
Suffolk Mind, which has been awarded £36,302 over three years to fund counselling and anxiety management courses for residents in Leiston and the surrounding areas.
For more information about the fund, eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit www. sizewellcfund.org.uk or call 01473 602 602.
Financial focus on... Dying Intestate
Over half of adults in the UK do not have a valid Will. This means that when they die, their assets are distributed in accordance with the Intestacy Rules which can cause all manner of problems if assets are sent to undeserving members of a family or, for example, a substantial inheritance is left to teenage adults without any control. Assuming you live in England or Wales, if you die Intestate, the rules are:
• Married/civil partnership with no children: Your spouse receives everything.
• Married/civil partnership with children: Your spouse receives your personal assets and the first £270,000 in value. The remainder is split equally between your spouse and your children (including illegitimate and adopted but not stepchildren). It becomes more complicated if you are neither married or in a civil partnership. Now, in
order of set off, your assets go absolutely to your children and then to your living parents, before your siblings are considered as beneficiaries. If the assets still cannot be distributed, the rules then send your assets to your living grandparents and then to your aunts and uncles. If either your children, siblings or aunts and uncles have already died but have themselves left beneficiaries, those beneficiaries can stand in their stead.
Ultimately, if no beneficiaries can be found, your estate goes to the Crown. If your assets to pass to a minor, the government will hold them in trust until they reach age 18 whereupon their inheritance is released to them without any controls, whether or not they're financially mature enough to handle the responsibility.
Even without considering whether any Inheritance Tax or Trust planning might be useful,
a simple Will can prevent your assets going to places that they ought not to. With modern lives being a lot more complicated than the simple old-fashioned family unit, having a Will has never been more important and can save so many problems.
For preparation of a Will, whilst you do not legally require one, it's recommended that you should speak to a suitably qualified solicitor or Will preparer. For inheritance tax advice, you should speak to a suitably qualified tax professional.
For further information, please contact Robin Beadle (pictured) via email: robin.beadle@ensors. co.uk
Disclaimer: "Specialist advice should always be sought prior to taking any action on matters discussed in this article."
Royal Norfolk Show 2026
June 24th & 25th
Share your stories Let's celebrate our communities!
Here at the Community News, we know that our local areas are brimming with incredible activities, dedicated people, and inspiring stories. From the smallest fundraiser to the biggest achievement, your news is our news, and we want to help you share it!
We publish three different papers to cover specific local areas, and we're putting out a friendly call to all the amazing groups that make the up regions of the Beccles & Bungay Community News, the Halesworth & Southwold Community News, and the Leiston & Framlingham Community News such vibrant places to live.
Who are we looking for?
If you belong to any of the following, or any other local group not listed, please consider sending us your updates:
• Local Charities & Fundraising Groups: Did you smash a target? Is there a big event coming up? Tell us how the community can support you!
• Schools & Educational Organisations: We'd love to hear about student achievements, school plays, class projects, or volunteer days.
• Sports Clubs & Teams (Junior & Senior): Send in your match reports, league standings, photos of trophy winners, or sign-up information for new members.
• Community Clubs & Societies: Whether you're a knitting group, a history society, a book club, or a photography collective - what have you been working on?
• Church/Faith Groups: Share details of community outreach, special services, or social events.
• Local Businesses with a Community Focus: Are you running a local initiative or sponsoring a team?
What can you send us?
It's simple! We're looking for anything you think your neighbours and the wider community would find interesting, useful, or heart-warming.
• News & Updates: What's new in your group?
• Event Previews & Reviews: Got a cake sale, a performance, or a public meeting planned? Tell everyone about it! And once it's over, let us know how it went.
• Call-Outs for Volunteers/Members: Are you looking for new faces? The paper is the perfect place to spread the word.
• Photos: A picture really is worth a thousand words! High-quality photos of your group in action are always welcome.
How to get your story in print: It couldn't be easier to contribute. You can reach us via email. Send your copy to: edit@micropress.co.uk
Crucial notes for email submissions:
• Write your article or report: Try to keep it concise, informative, and friendly. Include the 'who, what, when, and where' of your news.
• State your specific paper: Please begin your subject line with the name of the paper you are submitting for (e.g., 'Bungay News Submission' or 'Halesworth News Submission').
• Include Photos: Attach any relevant, good- quality photos (make sure you have permission from everyone in the picture!) Tell us who's in the photo and what they are doing.
• Add Your Contact Details: Please include a name and phone number for a main contact person, just in case we have a quick question. We are dedicated to making the Community News titles a true reflection of the wonderful things happening right here on our doorstep. So, don't be shy! Please do write in, share your successes, and let's celebrate our incredible communities together!
The Royal Norfolk Show (the UK's largest two-day agricultural event) is a celebration of food, farming and innovation. Each year it attracts 80,000 visitors, including 12,000 schoolchildren from across the region, offering a unique platform to showcase cutting-edge advancements in science, technology and agriculture. With over 700 trade stands, 3,000 animals and Norfolk's largest food and drink showcase, the Show is packed with engaging activities for all ages.
The Royal Norfolk Show is the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association's (RNAA) primary fundraising event to deliver our charitable objectives supporting and promoting food production, farming and the countryside in Norfolk.
We're thrilled to announce that the Show theme will be 'Celebrating Culture & Collaboration'.
Taking place over two unforgettable days at the Norfolk Showground, this year's Show will spotlight the strength that comes from bringing people together.
In 2026, we celebrate 'Culture & Collaboration', a theme that brings together Norfolk's deep-rooted traditions with the fresh energy of innovation and partnership. Visitors will experience the very best of local food and drink, livestock and equestrian excellence, vibrant performances, rural enterprise and cutting-edge advancements helping to shape the future of our region and beyond.
Across the Showground, collaboration will be at the heart of the programme:
• Local producers championing Norfolk's rich food and drink heritage and pioneering production.
• Celebrating the International
Year of the Woman Farmer, with activity across the Show highlighting the vital work women in agriculture provide in the industry.
• International Agro Challenge in partnership with Easton College will be taking place at this year's Show. With 18 teams from across Europe competing in a variety of physical and mentally challenging activities from sheep shearing to beer barrel racing.
• Discovery Zone, operated by the Food & Farming Discovery Trust will be educating visitors about Norfolk's connection to Mint & Mustard production by taking them on a journey from field to shop.
• Norfolk Business Zone will once again be providing the premier destination for networking and showcasing SME's in Norfolk
• Norfolk Rural Business Awards returns to the Royal Norfolk Show to showcase a wide range of businesses, community groups and people that help to make up Norfolk's thriving economy.
Entertaining our visitors will be at the heart of the Show with a Grand Ring programme packed with family displays and competitions; live music performances; a carnival showcasing Norfolk's diverse performing arts groups and hundreds of equestrian and livestock competitions.
Mark Nicholas (Chief Executive Officer) said: "The Royal Norfolk Show has always been a celebration of the very best our county has to offer. In 2026, our theme of Culture & Collaboration reflects the power of people working together across generations, sectors and communities. We're proud of Norfolk's traditions and we're equally excited about its future. This year's Show will
demonstrate how partnership, innovation and shared ambition can shape a thriving countryside for years to come."
The Royal Norfolk Show has long been a cornerstone of the county calendar, bringing together families, businesses, farmers, educators and visitors from across the region and beyond. To make this year's Show as accessible as possible, free car parking is being offered.
This year, the Show will support the homeless in Norfolk.
St. Martin's Housing (Norwich) will encompass' The Pathways Project (Great Yarmouth) and the King's Lynn Night shelter to raise awareness across Norfolk. Our two show charities will be: • Voluntary Norfolk: Improving the health, wellbeing, connections, skills and employability of thousands of people in Norfolk each year, by supporting volunteers, voluntary organisations and through the delivery of commissioned services. They desperately need more volunteers to support their services so the show will be an excellent showcase for them.
• Riding for the Disabled (RDA): Shared support between The Magpie Centre, West Norfolk Riding for the disabled and Mid Norfolk Group of Riding for the Disabled, North Tuddenham, near Dereham.
Whether you come for the prize-winning livestock, the vibrant shopping village, our spectacular Grand Ring attractions or the exceptional food and drink, the Royal Norfolk Show 2026 promises connection, creativity and countryside spirit in equal measure! Save the date and be part of the story! For further information, ticket details and programme updates, visit the official Royal Norfolk Show website at: royalnorfolkshow.co.uk
Sizewell
J C WOODPRODUCTS
The Halesworth to Southwold Narrow Gauge Railway Charity (HSNGR) ran its first passenger train at Easter, 97 years after the last one!
It was a major event for a railway that most people believed would never be restored. While it is a small step (and there's a long way to go) it seems we're finally on our way!
Open Days, including short passenger runs, will continue at Blythburgh Station (signposted off the A12) throughout the year. Join us between 10:30am and 3:45pm on May 17th, July 26th, and September 13th (which includes our Model Railway Show and celebrates Halesworth Heritage Open Days). Entry is free, as are the light refreshments, films, displays, guided tours, and our large-scale interactive live steam model railway. Donations to HSNGR are gratefully accepted.
Passenger rides carry a small charge and include a souvenir ticket. Parking's available in the field next to the church car park; Blue Badge holders may park by the village hall. Come and see the progress - maybe even join our charity for only 19p per week!
Our volunteers have been working at The Folly on Halesworth Millennium Green, clearing intrusive nettles and Alexanders, and weeding the gravel at the 1914 locomotive shed. Our staff will lead guided tours on Halesworth Parish Day (May 16) and Halesworth Ale
Day (June 13). The same team has tackled Walberswick Station. This station was a later addition to the line in response to village pressure and has remained largely untouched since 1940 (aside from track and building demolition), making it the best-preserved of the five station sites. However, after nearly 100 years of neglect, its history is hidden from passers-by.
Our volunteers have been clearing the station area of bracken, which Natural England warns can destroy archaeological sites. We already have a replica station platform board and permission to erect it once it's resized. An information board about the station, village, and railway is also ready and awaiting approval. There are two charitable organisations reconstructing the old Southwold Railway ourselves and the Southwold Railway Trust (SRT) because the project is simply too big for one! The HSNGR concentrates on Blythburgh, Walberswick, and Halesworth, with a workshop at Wenhaston. The SRT owns a significant portion of the original trackbed at Wenhaston and operates an attraction at Blyth Road, Southwold. There, you can see steam locomotives and ride an extensive landscaped miniature railway, with replica wagons and two historic diesel locomotives also on display. You can find their open day dates on their website. James Hewett, Trustee
Donut Day at Halesworth (Holton) Airfield Museum
National Donut Day (celebrated annually on the first Friday of June) was started in 1938 as a tribute to the Salvation Army 'Donut Lassies' who supported American troops on the front line during WWI.
During WWII, the American Red Cross sent hundreds of young women to England to boost military morale. These 'Donut Dollies' travelled around the country in their Clubmobiles (pictured above) serving coffee and donuts to homesick GIs, providing a little touch of home.
During the Korean and Vietnam Wars, Donut Dollies continued to boost the spirits of weary American servicemen
around the world.
Join us at Halesworth (Holton) Airfield Museum from 2pm on Sunday, June 7th to celebrate National Donut Day and find out more about Clubmobiles and Donut Dollies.
The museum is open from 2pm until 5pm every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday until the end of October. Admission is free.
You can keep up-to-date with museum events and news on our Facebook and website: halesworthairfieldmuseum.co.uk.
You can also contact us via phone: 01986 875084 and email: info@ halesworthairfieldmuseum.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you to our museum!
Reydon Show
SAVE THE DATE
Showcase your baking, gardening, or crafting skills at the Reydon Show on Saturday, August 1st!
This annual celebration offers trophies and certificates for all ages, including free entry for children under 12 in categories like Lego building and art. Please submit your entries on the Friday evening or Saturday morning before the exhibition opens at 2pm. This year's photography themes are 'A Café Scene', 'Local Event', 'Steam', and 'A Creature with its Young'. You can find the full programme of categories at Bridgefoot Stores closer to the date, so start preparing your preserves and blooms now!
We specialise in low cost repair options to buildings and can assist you with any building problem
SUFFOLK OFFICE
Halesworth to Southwold Narrow Gauge Railway
As Halesworth Campus looks to enhance local sporting opportunities, this article explores the technology, bene ts, and environmental considerations behind 3G pitches to help you understand their role in our community’s future.
What is meant by 3G?
3G (or ird Generation) is a name for an arti cial, all-weather pitch which looks, and more or less feels, like grass. Because it’s been developed for intensive use, the 3G surface is hard-wearing and resilient, meaning more teams, more training and more matches. It provides a surface of consistent quality with excellent playing characteristics such as ball bounce and roll while also reducing the risk of injury and being almost maintenance-free.
What's wrong with just playing on grass?
Is the 3G pitch really needed?
e Football Foundation and Su olk Football Association have identi ed East Su olk as being more than usually deprived in terms of football provision (bottom half nationally and even lower regionally). e need for more pitches is real. According to Sport England, a grass pitch "can sustain just six hours [of play] a week, accommodating an average of around 100 playing opportunities". By contrast, "a properly maintained AGP (arti cial grass pitch) can sustain up to 80 hours of use a week, providing an average of around 1,400 playing opportunities". In addition, says the Football Foundation, "3G pitches can be heavily used all year round with no decline in quality. ey almost completely negate annoying xture cancellations during winter months, helping football to be a key part of a regular physical activity habit." It isn't just about football, however. 3G surfaces also o er year-round opportunities for multiple other sports and tness activities.
grass pitch shortfalls through the transfer of play, which in turn can aid pitch quality improvements".
What exactly is a 3G pitch made from?
A 3G pitch is made from longer lengths of synthetic bres, the 'carpet pile', than other arti cial grass pitches. is is to allow for two layers of 'in ll'
- sand at the bottom to stabilise the carpet and an upper layer of, typically, rubber crumb which helps provide the all-weather surface with optimum playing characteristics.
What’s used for the in ll in the 3G pitch?
e rubber crumb used for in ll is a recycled material sourced from end-of-life car or truck tyres which are readily available in the UK.
What are microplastics and is the 3G pitch an environmental threat?
East Su olk District Council has identi ed a signi cant shortfall of 3G pitches, a position that is predicted to worsen given the rate of new housing being built locally. e council's position on the use of 3G technology is that good grass pitch condition is facilitated by the provision of arti cial pitches - "an increase in 3G provision could also help to reduce
Microplastics, or rubber crumb, have come under scrutiny in recent years because of the way the surface wears over time with particles that can make their way o the pitch and into the wider environment. is is indeed a cause for concern and sports organisations nationally are working to a national standard to mitigate crumb loss as much as is possible. ese measures include:
Arti cial pitches, 3G technology and the environment ...your questions answered
properly, crumb migration can be reduced by up to 98%, according to Sport England.
How long does the pitch surface last?
Clearly, this would depend on usage and maintenance but it's safe to say the surface would last at least ten years. A best practice maintenance regime includes weekly drag brushing to redistribute rubber in ll and keep bres upright, removing debris, inspecting for damage (seams/tears), and managing in ll levels, especially in high-use areas like goal mouths. Deep cleaning or specialised, periodic maintenance is recommended every 1-2 years. And, while the surface does degrade over time, it's possible to wash and re-use the crumb to refurbish the pitch. By the time our 3G pitch comes to the end of its life, we anticipate there being new technology which Halesworth Campus will be abreast of and ready to adopt.
burn when they slide on the surface. Low foot grip has also been found to be problem with some 4G turf systems." We want our 3G pitch to be the best and most up-to-date recommendation for intensive play and so we are following the current advice from national sporting bodies.
I heard 3G pitches are banned in Europe. Why do we still have them in the UK?
Is there a better ecological alternative to rubber crumb?
• Fitting containment barriers on a pitch’s perimeter fencing.
• Installing decontamination grates and boot cleaning brushes at all player and vehicle entrance gates.
While the above is true, this ban includes an eightyear transition period before the new restriction becomes e ective, meaning that not until October 2031 will 3G pitches no longer be constructed in Europe. And 3G pitches built in Europe before 2031 will continue to be maintained and refurbished a er that date until the end of their playing life. Despite Brexit, the UK continues to work closely with, and mirror regulations in, Europe. A technical report which was a joint enterprise from BSI Standards and the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) and which describes the procedures that should be used to control in ll migration has now been published as a UK national standard. Meanwhile, we are watching the Football Foundation's test hub in She eld - the rst of its kind in Europe - and when the time comes to resurface our 3G pitch, we will work to the very latest recommendations.
• Ensuring all stormwater drains around a pitch have suitable micro lters to capture any in ll being carried by surface run-o , etc.
• Keeping a dedicated maintenance brush within the boundaries of the pitch, so it cannot carry in ll into the surrounding environment.
• oroughly removing any in ll from maintenance tractors, etc. before they leave the pitch.
e design and construction of Halesworth's 3G pitch will follow best practice as set out by national sporting bodies. When managed and maintained
Not yet, unfortunately. Research is ongoing with a test centre in She eld, funded by the Football Foundation, which is testing di erent combinations of pitch systems. Some of these "vegetal" systems may not be suitable for play here due to our northern European climate. Some problems include buoyancy of crumb (cork oating), waterlogging, and susceptibility to fungal and algae growth requiring chemical treatments. Currently, these systems are also rather more expensive than rubber crumb. It's reasonable to hope, however, that an alternative will be found in the not-distant future. And we will be early adopters.
Could we have 4G instead?
(More arti cial grass, no in ll or sand in ll)
According to Sport England, "testing has shown 4G surfaces are not able to satisfy the FIFA criteria for arti cial grass football surfaces or the World Rugby criteria for arti cial grass rugby surfaces. is is primarily due to the surfaces’ inability to satisfy the criteria for skin/surface friction, meaning there is an increased risk of a player su ering from a carpet
Alike. A Bernese Mountain dog named Sparrow was crowned 'Best In Show' after competing against the winners of the previous six categories.
The dog show was supported by partner organisations and fellow charities including National Trust Sutton Hoo, Dogs Trust, Wildlife Wise and Guide Dogs UK. Dunwich Heath and Beach,
which is cared for by the National Trust, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and highly designated to protect rare and specialist species, including the dartford warbler, woodlark and nightjar. Despite its high nature designation, it's also popular with dog walkers and offers clearly signed dog zones, dog-friendly experiences and indoor spaces where you can 'paws' with a cup of tea and a treat. From March 1st until August 31st, dogs must be on a lead to protect ground-nesting birds, although the dog-friendly Woof Walk, where dogs can be off leads, is open throughout the year and there are also areas for dogs to be off-lead while on the beach.
Sparrow was named Best in Show
Dogs and their owners could also explore Dunwich's various walking trails, with the trick and treat trail.
