Community News Commun
FREE monthly newspaper for Halesworth, Southwold & surrounding villages October 2026 204054
Martyn Flint Carpentry & Building Services Ltd
Jack Perkins 07398 584539 807113
Email: Perkinstrees12345@yahoo.com
Unit 15, Halesworth Business Park, Halesworth IP19 8QJ
221791
WOOLNOUGH MFW Services
NEWSAGENTS NEWSAGENTS
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Framlingham. Framlingham.
Bodywork / Accident Repairs & Complete BODYWORK AND Kitchen Resprays ACCIDENT REPAIRS
business and please do get touch business and please do get inin touch
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Kevin Aldridge
149484
WORKSHOP Old Airfield, Holton 01986 875252 (Workshop) 07801 291795 (Mobile)
01986 875252 Workshop 07801 291795 Mobile Based at the Old Airfield, Holton, IP19 8NH
Halesworth, IP19 0AA • 01986 785272
or 07967 139561
metfieldgarage@yahoo.com Christmas Lane, Metfield, Harleston, IP20 0JZ
211592
Large Range of Garden Machinery in Stock For All Budgets
01502 714226 / 07941 052641
Tel: 01986 872882
Email: mail@mgcservices.org www.halesworthplumbingandheating.com
Plumbing & Heating 218385
Servicing And Repairs Undertaken On All Makes
LEADWORK • ROOFING REPAIRS • GUTTERING
• All general vehicle maintenance • Repair work • Tyres fitted while you wait • Four-wheel alignment • MOT’s & Servicing • Air-conditioning • Diagnostics • Clutches & Cambelts • Collection service available
209351
Tile Slate Flat Roofs All aspects of Roofing
01379 586219
Suffolkmowers.co.uk linsteadfarm@btconnect.com
www.upholstery.tsgk.com
D.L. FULLER ROOFING
228062
VEHICLE BODY REFINISHER
0212151
149484
484941
149484
AUTOLACK
APPROVED
KEVIN ALDRIDGE
OPEN 8.30am - 4.30pm Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri (closed Wed, Sat & Sun)
BRAMBLES, LOCKS ROAD,WESTHALL, HALESWORTH IP19 8RD
enquiries@mfw-services.co.uk 1 Miles Ward Court, Halesworth IP19 8AY
STANDOX
226313
01502 575988
T: 01986-888070
W: mfw-services.co.uk
Free Estimates
Tel: 01986 874 305
DINING CHAIRS,WING CHAIRS, FIRESIDES, 3 PIECE SUITES, SPRING REPAIRS, SEAT CUSHIONS REPLACED, FOAM CUT TO SIZE AND MORE . . . Quotes can be supplied by email, contact mailmark1@btconnect.com
We don’t normally work on Printers, Tablets, Phones or Apple products
0468268
226268
the service and will delivering days the service and will bebe delivering 77 days aa
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045016
Tel: 01502 478894 Mobile: 07702 139291 www.woolnoughcontractors.co.uk
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TRADITIONAL AND MODERN RE-UPHOLSTERY
New Desktops & Laptops to order. Refurbished are also available.
217074
01986 899330
211862
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si divaD ,tnemeFollowing riter s'boBBob's gniwo retirement, lloF David is has over 40 experience and egnDavid arDavid G ybhas de reover taking vo c sd n on uyears othe ryears ehrounds t experience no gncovered ikat by Grange 40 and .swen inin news. runs newsagents Halesworth and www.dcpatricknewsagents.net runs newsagents Halesworth and
Computer repairs, sales & services for the home & small business
SAND • BALLAST SHINGLE • TOPSOIL CRUSHED CONCRETE MOT TYPE 1 Road Plannings
Specialists home delivery for STNE GAinSNEWSAGENTS W E N Grange News Grange News m a h g n i l m a r F 4 , l Market l i H t e k r a Hill, M all your newspapers in4Framlingham Halesworth Following Bob's retirement, David Following Bob's David is is rand eon vothe n e k atretirement, Has saH taken over surrounding villages taking rounds covered Grange taking on the rounds covered byby Grange
BARHAM UPHOLSTERY
martynflint@outlook.com
225896
D.C.Patrick Patrick D.C.
07538 584316 01502 578533
New Boilers, Complete Heating Systems, Servicing (Natural Gas & LPG), Landlords Gas Safety Records, Legionella Risk Assessments, Showers, Bathrooms & General Plumbing, Project Management
40 201949
HOLTON ROAD GARDEN CENTRE AVAILABLE NOW
201300
PANSIES, VIOLAS, AUTUMN BEDDING & CYCLAMEN AUTUMN PLANTING BULBS NOW IN! PLANT SEED POTATOES NOW FOR CHRISTMAS NEW EXCITING RANGE OF DOG BEDS NOW IN NEW SELECTION OF JIGSAWS NOW IN
Natural Stone & Porcelain Paving • Aggregates, Cement & Post Mix • Pond & Water Garden Supplies • Bark, Turf & Topsoil • Composts • Tool Hire • Oak Sleepers • Fencing
BOOKS £5.99 EACH OR 2 FOR £10.00. GRAB A GREAT HOLIDAY READ CHILDREN’S TOOLS, TOYS & PUZZLES STOCKISTS OF THE BELOW WELL-KNOWN BRANDS:
FREE DELIVERY IN THE HALESWORTH AREA
01986 875 555
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 36 HOLTON ROAD, HALESWORTH
www.kings-landscaping.co.uk info@kings-landscaping.co.uk
233412
01986 872761
212262
In this months issue: Scarecrow Festival set to be out of this world! (pg 15)
Unit 23 Halesworth Business Park, Norwich Rd, Halesworth, IP19 8QJ Next Issue - Nov 2026 Stay in touch Deadline Date: 07/10/2026 01502 725 837 - edit@micropress.co.uk Publication Date: 16/10/2026 www.yourcommunitynews.co.uk
Find us on Socials /yourcommunitynews
@yourcommunitynews_
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2 - October 2026 - Halesworth & Southwold Community News
The Pear Tree Fund
WANT A REFRESHING SWIM?
REASONS TO SWIM AT VALLEY FARM
View video at www.valleyfarmholton.co.uk Details: 01986 874521 mail@valleyfarmholton.co.uk 233500
RJ ML &
0184444
• Private indoor pool, exclusive use • Always warm, min. 30˚C • Booking flexibility (subject to T +C) • Minimum 4 sessions • Discount for more sessions • Ideal exercise, hydrotherapy or relaxation • Only1 mile from Halesworth.
THICKITT TRADING A S
TTU TRADING ICKIB & RJ THE LMAL RK E BUTCAHS ERS C TCHE K 784244 K LTel: AR01986 R C K Fax: 01986 784646 S
Tel: 01986 784244 (Option 1)
email: kwclarkesorder@gmail.com
Email: LOWsharmangary4@gmail.com ROAD, BRAMFIELD
LOW ROAD, BRAMFIELD
'OurWINTER FamOus barbecue packs' WARMER PACK 1: £43.99 'Our FamOus barbecue packs' £39.99 Casserole packs for those cold evenings
£39.99
x2 1lb minced beef, x2 1lb diced beef, 4lb Flavoured x2 1lb diced pork, x2 1lbRibs sausages, 4lb Flavoured Ribs 4lb Flavoured x2 1lb mincedChicken pork 4lb 4lb Flavoured Sausages ----- Chicken 4lb Sausages WINTER PACK 2: £58.99 10WARMER Beef Burgers 10 Beef Burgers Slow roast joint pack 5 Pork and Apple Burgers x2 1kg shoulder of pork, x2 1kgBurgers shoulder of lamb, 5 Pork and Apple x2 1kg brisket slow roast Small Barbecue Packs ----Small Barbecue Packs £9.99 WINTER WARMER PACK 3: £57.99 £9.99 1kg shoulder pork joint, 1kg shoulder of lamb joint, All barbecue 1kg brisket, slow roast,meat x2 1lb mince, All barbecue meat x1 1lb dicedloose beef, x1including... 1lb sausages available available loose including... 1Ib diced pork, x1Chicken 1Ib diced chicken Freshx1Flavoured Ribs, & Burgers
Thank you to our volunteers!
Thanks for making our 11th Golf Day one to remember! A huge thank you to every single person who made our 11th Annual Golf Day on August 28th so special. From the golfers on the greens to our incredible sponsors, amazing volunteers and the fantastic team at Halesworth Golf Club, your support made it a truly memorable day of great golf and even better company. We're still totting up the final figures but can't wait to share the amount we raised. Thank you all for being a part of it. Exciting upcoming events! • September 30th, 5pm-7pm: Art Wellbeing Exhibition at The Pear Tree Centre. Showcasing the fantastic artwork which has been created by members of our recent art wellbeing groups, all welcome. • October 21st, 10am-12pm: Breast Cancer Awareness Coffee Morning. We'll be holding a coffee morning at The Pear Tree Centre in partnership with the three care agencies who provide our end-of-life care. Please come along All smiles on the green! for a cup of tea and a slice of cake.
Fresh Flavoured Ribs, Chicken & Burgers Also Pickles and Sauces Sauces 24Salads, HOURS NOTICE APPRECIATED Also Salads, Pickles and Traditionally-reared local beef, lamb, pork and poultry, home-cooked hams and home-cured Traditionally reared local beef lamb porkgammons and poultry Traditionally reared local beef lamb pork and poultry home cookedOPENING hams and home cured gammons HOURS
Mon-Fri 7am-5pm &HOURS Sat 7am-1pm OPENING Monday to Friday 8am-5pm. Saturday 8am-1pm
One of our 32 teams
KITCHENSENSE of Harleston
Beautiful hand crafted soft furnishings created using traditional methods and years of expertise
Blinds • Curtains • Cushions Headboards • Loose Covers Upholstery • Fabric • Bed Linen
Authentic, tasty, home-cooked, Indian food delivered ready for home heating See Facebook and Instagram:
@ThePinkTiffin
* Visits by Appointment only *
Scan the above QR code for our weekly changing menu
|
www.katharineellendesigns.co.uk
www.pinktiffin.co.uk
225677
01986 873580
205991
info@ked.uk.com
206965
62 London Road, Harleston, Norfolk IP20 9BZ
Fitted Kitchen Specialists KITCHEN • BATHROOM • BEDROOM SPECIALIST ASSOCIATION
Tel: (01379) 852592 Fax: (01379) 854411
03134862
.
web site: www.kitchen-sense.co.uk email: staff@kitchen-sense.co.uk
We cover all aspects of...
✓ Landscaping ✓ Fencing & Repairs ✓ Trees & Hedging ✓ Patios & Pathways ✓ Turfıng ✓ Shed Bases
✓ Overgrown gardens cleared & tidied ✓ All rubbish cleared & removed ✓ Locally based ✓ Fully guaranteed work
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE
07983 653930
sgtreeandgardenservices@yahoo.com www.sgtreeandgardenservices.co.uk
221390
Quality and Service at a realistic price
Halesworth & Southwold Community News - October 2026 - 3
Halesworth Millennium Green
Blyth Valley Parkinsons Support Group
Dee's Den is open and stocked for autumn!
Help us keep the community informed by sending your editorial and photos to:
Individual 20ft containers with 33.1m3 of space For more information and availability, please call
01502 380129
196268
or email: harrowmend@gmail.com
edit@micropress.co.uk
Thank You!
Making hay while the sun shines! The Millennium Green volunteers have been busy cutting the hay field by hand and stacking it so the wildflowers can emerge next spring. It's hard work, but rewarding to see the results. There has finally been some rain which has revived the meadows and given the cows some much needed fresh grass. The Wednesday work party has been keeping the path edges cut and making notes for work that needs doing over the winter. We hope to have a bat walk in October. It's a wonderful way to see some of the evening creatures
on the Green. Not only bats but owls too and a lovely time for a stroll. We'll post the time and date on the website. We welcome any suggestions for activities on the Green. We're always ready to introduce more people to the delights of our nature reserve on our doorstep.
To advertise in Community News, call Kasey on 01502 725 801
Andy Frances
Over 35 years’ experience reliable & friendly service.
All domestic
PLUMBING • HEATING • GAS INSTALLATION • MAINTENACE • REPAIR Gas boiler servicing • Replacement boilers • Landlord Gas Safety Certificates • Showers & shower pumps • Immersion heaters • Water softeners • Taps • Toilets • Tanks • Cylinders • Unvented cylinders • Megaflo etc
Based in Halesworth • 07801 988752 www.alwaysplumbingservices.co.uk info@alwaysplumbingservices.co.uk 226437
231394
find what you're looking for, as we have plenty of stock in the back waiting to go out. We also have a range of plants, garden items, and fresh donated fruit and vegetables. Don't forget to try our delicious homemade marmalade made by Jenny, one of our volunteers, it's very popular. Thanks, Jenny! Donations We welcome donations of clean, saleable clothes, bric-abrac, toys, games, and small pieces of furniture. Please drop these off at the shop during opening hours. If you have more than a couple of bags, please deliver on a Monday/Thursday morning. If you're unable to deliver, give us a call and we can arrange a collection. Please note: We cannot accept used electrical items (new and boxed only), pillows, or duvets. Volunteering If you're interested in volunteering, call in to leave your details and pick up an application form. If you can offer just a few hours a week to sort items or work on the shop floor, please get in touch, you'll be warmly welcomed! Thank you all for your continued support through buying and donating. We really appreciate it! To contact Dee's Den, please phone Nikki on: 07733 668221.
Based in Theberton, convenient for Leiston-cum-Sizewell, Saxmundham & surrounding areas.
212639
We are open again after a short, necessary closure, and it's so good to see everyone! Our shop volunteers have missed you all. The shop is now open and operating on our autumn hours of 9:30am-1pm, Monday-Saturday. We have a range of half-price summer clothes, shoes, and sandals for men, women, and children, come and take a look! We also have our regular £1 rail of reduced adults' clothes (outside if dry). We offer a wide range of jewellery, as well as a good assortment of board games, outdoor games, toys, and children's books, all reasonably priced. Jigsaws are always popular, and we have a variety of sizes ready for those longer dark evenings. Our stock turns over quickly, so don't miss out! We also have a wide selection of books to suit all readers (50p for paperbacks and £1/£2 for hardbacks), covering every subject and a huge range of authors. Check out our 'bargain book bucket' for our "threebooks-for-£1" offer, while CDs and DVDs remain at only 50p. In addition, we stock bedding, curtains, towels, tablecloths, brica-brac, glassware, kitchenware, pictures, and photo frames, along with a dedicated sale shelf for bric-a-brac. Please ask if you can't
STORAGE CONTAINER HIRE
We want to hear about it!
232186
We run a support group for people with Parkinsons and their partners/carers, which is a friendly meeting on the second Thursday of most months, in Holton Village Hall from 10:30am-12pm. We normally have a speaker on some relevant subject and time to chat and share experiences over a cup of coffee or tea. Everyone's welcome to attend our meetings. If you'd like any further information, please contact either Margaret on 07719 389240, margaret@wrush. plus.com or Gail on 01502 817004, aandgattfield@ btinternet.com
RESTAURANT OPEN DAILY FROM 8AM - 3:30PM
Add value and extra living space to your property Same name, same owners...
for over 50 years
225362
On August 13th, we had a visit from two lady Neurology Physios who updated us on Parkinsons news and gave us advice, which is always helpful. On September 10th, we visited the Oasis Camel Centre for our annual outing. We'd been there before and enjoyed the visit so we were very much looking forward to going again. On October 8th, we have an interesting speaker, John Brownfield who will tell us about the life cycle of bees! This will certainly be different and I do hope folk will come along to hear what he has to say. All welcome!
HARROWMEND LTD
Do you have an update from a local club, a successful charity event, or a story to share?
• Windows • Conservatories • Doors • Roofline • Porches • Cladding • Guardian Warm Roofs • and more!
01986 874241
Head Office: Norwich Road, Halesworth Bressingham Garden Centre, Diss | Dobbies Garden Centre, Woodbridge
.
4 - October 2026 - Halesworth & Southwold Community News 233629
Wenhaston Flower Club
News from Halesworth & District U3A
To advertise in Community News, call Kasey on 01502 725 801
On October 20th, we welcome William Lindsay with a talk called William Schaw Lindsay MP: from Cabin Boy to Shipping Magnate. The talk will be held in the Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth, at 2:30pm, immediately after our AGM at 2pm, and all are welcome. William is the current editor of the online magazine for the Society for Nautical Research and a highly experienced speaker. His presentation will concentrate on the remarkable story of his Victorian great-great-grandfather, who progressed from a penniless orphaned cabin boy to a shipping magnate and MP. After nine years at sea, he became a shipbroker and shipowner. His ships were involved in emigration to Australia and Canada, as well as transport during both the Crimean War and the American Civil War. His diaries in the National Maritime Museum are full of anecdotes about famous Victorians he met, including Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Charles Dickens, Benjamin
Disraeli, Abraham Lincoln, and Florence Nightingale. William has also written a book about his relative, William Schaw Lindsay: Victorian Entrepreneur, which will be available to buy for £10. We hope to see you at what promises to be an entertaining account of the life of a Victorian entrepreneur who, in his day, was akin to a modern-day Richard Branson. The talk is free to current Halesworth and District U3A members. For non-members, tickets are available for £4 in advance or on the door at the Cut. Why not come along early, meet up with friends, and enjoy a delicious lunch in the Cut Café? Our U3A is run by a small committee, and we always need volunteers to help us out in various roles. If you are a current U3A member or thinking of joining, and are interested in volunteering, we would be delighted to hear from you. To find out more, message one of our committee members via the contact page of our website at: halesworth.u3asite.uk
“Supportive, inclusive, ambitious” — ISI Report, November 2025
Richard with two of his arrangements
September recap and October Charity Night After our summer break, we returned to our usual venue in Wenhaston Village Hall for our September meeting. The meeting was a first for the club as we welcomed Richard Holmes, who demonstrated the Japanese art of flower arranging called Ikebana, which means "living flowers". It's a precise, minimalist style of floral design where the three main stems, arranged at different heights, represent Heaven, Human (or Man), and Earth. Richard was very entertaining as he created several beautiful arrangements, ensuring everyone enjoyed a lovely evening. Charity Night: October 6th at 6pm Our next gathering is our Charity Night in Wenhaston Village Hall, raising funds for the Halesworth Branch of Cancer Research. This event is open to everyone, not just flower club members, so please spread the word! It will follow the same format as last year, featuring a demonstration by Jenny. Tickets & Stalls: • Tickets: £10 (includes a plate
of food plus tea or coffee; wine will be available to purchase by the glass). Tickets are selling quickly,contact Jackie or Jane at Wenhaston Post Office, or Jane Walker directly to buy yours. • Features: Raffle, Cancer Research merchandise stall, handmade cards, and a craft stall. • Payment: Please note that stalls will be cash only. Craft Stall Donations: If you have any crafting hobbies and would like to donate items for the craft stall, we would be extremely grateful. Ideas include: • Crafts: Knitting, crocheting, felting, painting, or small floral wreaths. • Baking: Bags of flapjacks, Millionaires' shortbread, fudge, or boxed cupcakes. • Preserves: Homemade jams or pickles. • Gifts: Brand new, unwanted gift items. Please come along and support the event,every penny spent makes a real difference. Contact: Jackie Chenery: 01502 478401 Jane Walker: 07884 030509
- Same/Next Day Clearances - Outside Sheds & Barn Clearances - Demolition of Outside Buildings/Barns etc. - 7 Days a Week! - Suffolk & East Anglia - Free Estimates - Call Joe Bennett today!
Did your garden struggle this summer in the drought? Prepare now for more resilience in 2027. Don't leave it until spring - autumn and winter are crucial. Services: tidying, planting, pruning, mulching and consultation - I can support with choosing and sourcing the right plants, as well as sustainability or wildlife projects like irrigation systems, water butts, composts, ponds, hedgehog houses and bug hotels. I also offer year-round regular maintenance.
EXTENSIVE SCHOOL BUS ROUTES ACROSS EAST ANGLIA
NURSERY
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SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
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214161
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233619
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233047
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Phone: 07377424498 Email: dshields1@hotmail.co.uk
Fully qualified and insured arborists Free onsite quotations 197556
All aspects of tree work carried out
058088
Call David on 07786 21 21 30 www.mccarthytreeservices.co.uk
178651
Competitive prices
aters WayneilW d er
CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION
EXTENSIONS LOFT CONVERSIONS REPLACEMENT WINDOWS RENOVATIONS
All aspects of work undertaken including Roofing work Specialising in Barn & Loft Conversions Building Refurbishments Alterations & Extensions Bespoke & Listed Kitchens Planned & Fitted
Mobile: 07786 263075 Email: waynewaters68@hotmail.co.uk
For your FREE quote, call Kevin on 01986 948 200 or 07919 177 837
Tel: Westhall (01502) 575 970 0153853
NICK THE PLUMBER
Dan Sampson
07868 311504
Loves small jobs
D. SAMPSON ROOFING
dan.sampson1996@gmail.com
07803 396879
2 Hall Farm Cottages, Hall Road, Bedingham, NR35 2DD
197588
Free quotes and advice for all types of work, ranging from small repairs to full roof replacements. 213783 0587638
C.W.Ellis (Halesworth)Ltd
STUART FOSTER General Builder
Est 2000
C & G Qualified Tree Surgeon Fully Insured
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01502 575921 07899 713953
152343
212591
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www.hawthornhardlandscape.co.uk Over 30 years experience in the service, maintenance and repair of OIL FIRED DOMESTIC boilers. With an extensively stocked van and a comprehensive selection of spares, so most breakdown calls can be completed on the first visit. call
Paramount Heating
01986 782301 07771 658647
209001
187659
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k.whight258@btinternet.com k.whight258@btinternet.com
All Types of Fencing Shed Bases Patios Driveways General Landscaping Groundworks
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Interior & exterior Modern and period properties 01728 802762 688300 07967
07709536813 or 01986 875914
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PETE BERRY BUILDERS
147433
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01986 875596 (Halesworth) or 07831 878834 (mobile)
233767
SEASONED FIREWOOD
on
For a free no obligation quote Telephone
028538
Mob: 07908 262114
195110
• Gas and oil boiler installation and servicing. • Complete central heating system design and installation. • Landlord Certification. • Boiler breakdown and repairs. • Bathroom modifications and installation. • Heat pump installation
12 Silver Ley, Redisham, Beccles, NR34 8LX
086654
Extensions, Renovations, Plastering Free quotations Tel: 07826 766375 or 01986 469692
Tim Harrison’s Tree Services
Beccles, Suffolk
Mob: 07717176384 Email: peteberrybuilders@gmail.com
.
209605
Courteous, attentive, reliable New York | Paris | Beccles
213216
Bu
K.J. DIXON
165908
LOCAL SERVICES DIRECTORY
Community News - October 2026 - 5
6 - October 2026 - Community News
07734 559790
Email: dunlop142@yahoo.com
DANIEL FOSTER PLUMBING & HEATING HALESWORTH
General Plumbing, Maintenance and Emergencies All jobs considered, large or small FREE ESTIMATES
S G AERIAL & SATELLITES • DIGITAL TV AERIAL SPECIALIST • DATA POINTS FITTED • TV/SATELLITE MULTIPOINTS • TV AERIALS/ REPAIRS • FM/DAB AERIALS INSTALLED • SUPPLIED & INSTALLED
City & Guilds Qualified 25 Years Experience Interior & Exterior Free Estimates 0184341
26 Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon IP18 6SZ Tel: 01502 723366. Fax: 01502 724866 e: info@cooperdenny.com www.cooperdennybuilders.com
01986874926
07825622477 0143685
PAINTING AND DECORATING Exterior and Interior Property Maintenance
01502 715234 • 07803 614410
INSTALLATION • REWIRES • PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING CONSUMER UNIT UPGRADES ADDITIONAL POINTS • PHONE/DATA CABLING
Peter Wright
191559
01986 948432
07919 026284 01986 875302
jamesmillerelectrical@gmail.com
Simon Maunder
NICK ROUSE Middleton Garage
Complete Heating Solutions
FULLY QUALIFIED PEUGEOT & BMW TRAINED TECHNICIANS WITH 50 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE
Gas Boiler Installs • Solar Thermal Systems Underfloor & Conventional Radiator Systems Thermal Imaging of Underfloor & Radiator Systems for Faults Power Flushing of Problems Systems
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MCS Registration No: APH 47349 for Boiler Upgrades Scheme
Air Conditioning Service Available (Re-Gassing) All makes & models catered for
simon@maunderplumbing.co.uk
01728 648859
230487
MOT TESTING & PREPARATION
190432
07793 055099
E. B. Button & Sons Ltd. Est. 1875
Directors: S.J. Moore, K.J. Eagle, C.S. Moore Dip.F.D. BTEC
WANT TO REACH OVER
Independent, family-run Funeral Directors providing pre-paid funeral plan options
80,000 LOCAL PEOPLE?
191977
Tel: 01394 382160 (24 hours) Email: info@ebbutton.co.uk www.ebbutton.co.uk
TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS ON OUR SERVICES PAGES,
Tel: 01986 872882
Email: mail@mgcservices.org www.halesworthplumbingandheating.com
Plumbing & Heating
Call Kasey on 229251
New Boilers, Complete Heating Systems, Servicing (Natural Gas & LPG), Landlords Gas Safety Records, Legionella Risk Assessments, Showers, Bathrooms & General Plumbing, Project Management
Cleaning Services Windows, Gutters, Soffitts, Facias & Solar Panels
201949
40
01502 725801
213242
Heating Engineer
24 St. John’s Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1EB
.
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Halesworth & Southwold Community News - October 2026 - 7
Christmas magic comes to Halesworth as The Cut prepares for first professional pantomime Audiences in Halesworth are in for a magical treat this festive season as The Cut prepares to stage its first professional pantomime as part of its Autumn/Winter programme. This December, Cinderella will take to the stage at The Cut Arts Centre as the Halesworth
venue partners with SparkLive Pantomimes to bring one of Britain's best-loved festive traditions to the town. Promising plenty of magic, laughter and festive spectacle, the production will transform The Cut into a world of fairy-tale fun for audiences of all ages.
Exhibition brings contemporary art to Walpole Old Chapel drawings made on site, subtle colour studies and a sitespecific installation made from hazel rods. Hazel was used as part of the wattle and daub of the original farmhouse, turned non-conformist chapel. "Walpole Old Chapel is a unique building; plain, pragmatic and practical, also beautiful." says Grace, "There are no straight lines. There are rough surfaces, worn edges and it's always just before 8:45am according to the clock. Big nails, kids' graffiti, and a make-do-and-mend aesthetic runs through the interior. It's good to be in there as a maker and to be "talking to" all those other makers before me. Before it was a place for secret worship, it was a home. The simple chapel has witnessed extraordinary events and has a strange and
fascinating collection of stories, for example holding up the roof is the salvaged mast of a ship!" - Grace Adam About Grace: Grace Adam is an artist, lecturer at Chelsea College of Arts, and co-host of The Art Channel who combines a diverse multidisciplinary practice centred on human environments with extensive residency work, international mentoring, and public educational programs for top UK art institutions. About Walpole Old Chapel: Walpole is a quiet East Suffolk village home to a 16th-century timber farmhouse turned 1689 nonconformist meeting house, a plain, unadorned chapel now conserved and owned by a local community charity to protect its unique history.
the local community to The Cut for what we hope will become a very special part of Christmas in Halesworth." The production will also have a strong local connection, with a troupe of talented young performers from the area joining the professional cast on stage as the show's dance ensemble. Norfolk-based SparkLive Pantomimes specialises in producing high-quality professional pantomimes for smaller and mid-scale venues, bringing the spectacle and excitement of traditional pantomime to communities across the country. The company and its team have worked with venues throughout the Eastern region and beyond for more than a decade. With all the ingredients of a traditional family pantomime - colourful characters, music, comedy, audience participation and plenty of festive magic - Cinderella promises to make Christmas 2026 one to remember in Halesworth. Cinderella runs at The Cut, Halesworth, from 1930 December 2026. Tickets are on sale now, priced from £17.50, and can be booked at: thecut.org.uk
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'Lines of Dissent' is a solo exhibition of drawings, paintings and large-scale site-specific installations at Walpole Old Chapel by Grace Adam. The exhibition is a culmination of Grace's time as an Artist in Residence at the chapel. The exhibition runs from September 25th to October 31st. Pieces communicate the fascinating secret history of the chapel, responding to its architecture and human stories. Long fascinated by this humble building, Grace approached the trustees of Walpole Old Chapel with the idea of being an Artist in Residence. Since February, she's been exploring and investigating the 16th century space. Work on show in the chapel includes huge hanging charcoal
Ryan Holt, Executive Producer at SparkLive Pantomimes, said: "We're incredibly excited to be working with The Cut to bring professional pantomime to Halesworth this Christmas. We've got a fantastic production lined up, packed with dazzling costumes, toetapping musical numbers, stunning scenery and plenty of side-splitting comedy. We want audiences to walk through the doors and experience all the magic, excitement and spectacle you'd expect from a pantomime - right here in Halesworth." The production will run for almost two weeks over the Christmas period, with a programme of public performances alongside dedicated schools performances. The venue says there has already been strong interest from schools across the local area. Afkate, Venue Manager at The Cut, said: "We're very excited to be adding pantomime to our programme this Christmas - and what better way to begin than with the much-loved ragsto-riches story of Cinderella. It's going to be wonderful to welcome families, schools and audiences from across
‘A dazzling spectacle of a pantomime’ Review of a previous production
DECEMBER 2026 Sat 19th Dec Sun 20th Dec Mon 21st Dec Tues 22nd Dec Wed 23rd Dec Thurs 24th Dec Fri 25th Dec Sat 26th Dec Sun 27th Dec Mon 28th Dec Tues 29th Dec Wed 30th Dec
1pm 1pm 1pm 1pm 1pm 10:30am 1pm 1pm 1pm 1pm 1pm
5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 2:30pm 5pm 5pm 5pm 5pm
TICKETS Adults Under 16s Family Ticket
£19.50 £17.50 £70.00 *Plus booking fee’s.
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Box Office 0300 303 3211 • Online www.thecut.org.uk
WHAT'S ON?
8 - October 2026 - Halesworth & Southwold Community News
OTD: on the door PP: per person SEPTEMBER 25TH OCTOBER 31ST 'Lines of Dissent' Exhibition Walpole Old Chapel Uncover the history of Suffolk's 16th-century chapel in a solo exhibition by Artist in Residence Grace Adam. Exploring the site's nonconformist architecture, the show feat. hazel rod installations, colour studies, & large-scale charcoal drawings created on site. Free entry. OCTOBER 2ND 12 Months in Essex The Cut, Halesworth 7:30pm. An observational documentary following painter Simon Carter's practice over a year, feat. soundtrack by Karl Bielik. £5pp. OCTOBER 3RD - 28TH Exhibition Halesworth Gallery 11am-4pm. Exhibition of works by Roz Howling, Gail Hoban & Sophie Wollaston. All welcome. OCTOBER 3RD Westhall Apple & Pumpkin Festival Westhall Village Hall & Field From 1pm. Enjoy this freeto-attend community event! Locally-made crafts & gifts, games, music, buy locally-grown apples, pumpkins & produce, welly-wanging competition, tractor displays, wood chopping demos, refreshments & more! OCTOBER 3RD Oktoberfest The Rifle Hall, Halesworth 1:30pm-10:30pm. A day of delicious food, amazing music & plenty of beer! 2 sittings; 1:30pm-5pm & 7pm-10:30pm. Both sessions will have live music from The Oompah Band!
OCTOBER 3RD Andrea Bocelli Opera Candlelight Experience St. Edmund's Church, Southwold 7pm-8pm (doors 6:15pm) & 9pm10pm (doors 8:30pm). Lumos presents a mesmerising Opera Candlelight Concert for ages 8+, feat. classic operatic performances by a pianist, string duet, & vocal duo in a stunning candlelit setting. £20pp+. lumos-experiences.com/ events/southwold OCTOBER 3RD The African Choir of Norfolk St. Michael's Church, Beccles 7pm. Tickets (£15pp) available from St. Michael's Friday Coffee Mornings, Beccles Books, Coriander (New Market), Edge Computers (6a The Walk), & via email: faith@darch.plus.com OCTOBER 3RD The Phantom of The Opera St. Mary's Church, Halesworth 7:15pm. Step back into the golden age of cinema with this screening of the 1925 silent film starring Lon Chaney with a live pipe organ soundtrack. £10pp OTD. OCTOBER 4TH Covehithe Plough Day St. Andrew's Church, Covehithe 10am-4pm. Stalls, cakes, BBQ, & refreshments. For more info, contact Claire: clairegupps@ gmail.com or: info@ blythvalleyrotary.co.uk. Profits to East Anglian Air Ambulance. Event by Blyth Valley Rotary. OCTOBER 4TH (& 18TH) Sociable Sunday Halesworth Library 10:30am-12:30pm. A welcoming drop-in session to meet new people over a cuppa & cake.
OCTOBER 6TH Chinny's Social: Coffee & Chat Chinny's, Halesworth 12pm-2pm. On the first Tues every month, Halesworth Volunteers' meet at the Events Bar for Coffee & Chat. All welcome. Come make new friends, & enjoy the delicious food on offer! OCTOBER 6TH 'From Fressingfield to Fressingfield: Archbishop William Sancroft & the Challenges of Biography' Southwold Arts Centre 2pm. Southwold Museum & Historical Society talk. Historian Grant Tapsell explores the remarkable life & Suffolk roots of Fressingfield-born Archbishop of Canterbury William Sancroft (1617-93). Admission: £5pp (society members), £8pp (nonmembers). OCTOBER 8TH 'Life Cycle of Bees' talk Holton Village Hall 10:30am-12pm. Blyth Valley Parkinsons Support Group meeting. Talk by John Brownfield. All welcome. For more info, contact Margaret 07719 389240 or Gail 01502 817004. OCTOBER 8TH 80s Musical Bingo & Disco Westhall Racehorse 7pm. Join Halesworth Volunteers for a fun 80s-themed fundraising night feat. musical bingo, disco, & 80s-style buffet. Tickets: £10pp incl. food, & transport is available via the Hoppa bus by contacting HV directly. For tickets, pop into the Westhall Racehorse, visit the HV office, call 01986 875600, or email info@halesworthvolunteers.org.
OCTOBER 8TH Kiyuku Land The Cut, Halesworth 7:30pm. Award-winning documentary following a Kenyan families fight to reclaim ancestral land from a multinational corporation, exposing the ongoing impact of colonial history. £8pp. OCTOBER 9TH Flook The Cut, Halesworth 7:30pm-9:15pm. Celebrating 30+ yrs together, iconic AngloIrish folk band Flook bring their blend of traditional Celtic music & contemporary acoustic grooves to The Cut Sessions. £25pp. OCTOBER 9TH The Phantom of Friar Street Southwold Arts Centre 7:30pm. Packed with scares, humour, & atmospheric live music, this spine-chilling ghost story follows an author who unravels the mysterious past & dark secrets haunting Friar St. £11pp-£16pp. southwoldartscentre.co.uk. OCTOBER 10TH Produce Market St. Mary's Church, Halesworth 9am-1pm. Local producers, crafts, refreshments. For stall enquiries, contact Geoff: 07818 060876. OCTOBER 13TH Halesworth Harmony Rehearsal The Cut, Halesworth 7pm-9pm. Halesworth Harmony are actively looking for new members (especially men!) Come along for a free taster session, no experience necessary, everything taught by ear. You'll receive a warm welcome! More info, email: halesworth.harmony@gmail.com OCTOBER 14TH Lunchtime Recital St. Mary's Church, Halesworth 12:30pm start (refreshments from
12pm). Katalin Farsang Prentice (Soprano). Inspiring music in the beautiful setting of St. Mary's. Free to attend, retiring collection. OCTOBER 15TH 'Painting & Thinking: Mary Newcomb' Book Talk Halesworth Library 2:30pm. Join local artist Tessa Newcomb as she shares insights & extracts from her mother's working diary, shedding light on her extraordinary paintings. This free talk requires adv. booking through library staff or by email: friendsofhalesworth library@gmail.com OCTOBER 16TH Charity Golf Day Halesworth Golf Club Celebrate Halesworth Volunteers' 40th anniversary. 18 holes of Better Ball Pairs starting at the new 7:45am tee-off time. Entry incl. arrival bacon baps, onecourse meal after play, plus prizes, raffle, & auction. Non-member tickets: £50pp & members £40pp to support HV. For entry forms/ enquiries, email: info@halesworthvolunteers.org OCTOBER 16TH The Big Cut Quiz The Cut, Halesworth 7:30pm. Suffolk's quirkiest quiz night returns with Dean Parkin as host. Teams of up to 5. £6pp. OCTOBER 17TH NOVEMBER 1ST Still Life Exhibition Southwold Gallery 10am-5pm. Feat. works by Chris Kendrick, Sally Anne Fitter, Joanne Makin, Rachel Thomas & Naomi Brangwyn. OCTOBER 17TH Jumble Sale Holton Village Hall 10am-12pm. Grab a bargain & enjoy tea, coffee, & cake
PRODUCE MARKET Saturday 10th October St. Mary’s Church, Steeple End, Halesworth, IP19 8LL
07818 060 876
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For stall enquiries, please contact Geoff on
for a great cause! Good, clean, saleable items welcome. Contact Dawn Davis at 01986 873640 for inquiries. Please note, unaccepted items incl: Electricals, knives, safety helmets, child car seats, cots, knitted toys/large furniture. Come & help us raise funds for Cancer Research's vital work! OCTOBER 17TH Bowie by MoonAge Southwold Arts Centre 7:30pm. David Bowie tribute band MoonAge performs a multimedia journey through Bowie's greatest hits with a full band & backing vocals. £21.50pp. OCTOBER 17TH OperaBabes The Cut Arts, Halesworth 7:30pm. Celebrating 25yrs, renowned UK classical crossover duo OperaBabes (Rebecca Knight & Karen England) perform an evening of popular classics & hits from their No. 1 album for their home crowd. £18pp adv., £22pp OTD. OCTOBER 18TH (& 4TH) Sociable Sunday Halesworth Library 10:30am-12:30pm. A welcoming drop-in session to meet new people over a cuppa & cake. OCTOBER 21ST Breast Cancer Awareness Coffee Morning Pear Tree Centre, Halesworth 10am-12pm. Coffee morning in partnership with the 3 care agencies who provide end-of-life care. Come along for tea & cake! OCTOBER 22ND Horatio Nelson: Fever & Fire Southwold Arts Centre 7:30pm. Written & performed by Adam Preston, this Standing Ovation Award-nominated oneman show comes to East Anglia to explore the life, victories, & loves of Britain's famous naval hero. £17.50pp. OCTOBER 23RD Dracula: The Last Voyage of the Demeter Southwold Arts Centre 7:30pm. Written by Sean Carney & produced by Growing Theatre, this new adaptation of a classic tale follows Captain Atkins & his crew aboard the doomed ship Demeter as they navigate isolation, paranoia, & a lockedaway monster on their voyage to England. £12pp.
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OCTOBER 24TH Laxfield Museum Cèilidh: Dancing to Syzewell Gap Laxfield Village Hall 7pm (doors open). Bar & raffle. Tickets: £10pp (incl. light buffet) on sale at the Community Market on Oct 3rd, Church Coffee Morning on Oct 17th & by phone: 01986 798531 or email: info@laxfieldmuseum.org.uk OCTOBER 24TH Sonic Wave: Broken Folk & Bonuru (double bill) The Cut, Halesworth 7:30pm. A genre-blending double-bill feat. improvisational trio Broken Folk & nu-jazz collective Bonuru, alongside a pre-show choir performance & optional vegetarian meal. Tickets range from £5pp for under 18s to £15pp-£20pp for the concert, with a £25pp concert-&-meal package available in adv. OCTOBER 26TH It's All Done With Mirrors* Southwold Arts Centre 11am & 1:30pm. An interactive, educational science magic show revealing how magicians use realworld science & engineering to create spectacular stage illusions. Suitable for all ages, children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. £3pp. OCTOBER 26TH Board Games Café Halesworth Library 2pm-4:30pm. Many games to choose from, old & new ones, or BYO favourites. No need for special skills/knowledge. Join us, & have a relaxing afternoon, meet new friends, enjoy tea & cake! Suggested £1 donation to the Friends of Halesworth Library. OCTOBER 27TH Halloween Science Experiments Workshop* Southwold Arts Centre 11am. Interactive Halloween workshop led by a Mad Nutty Professor feat. hands-on experiments, electrical demos, bubbling dry-ice potions, & glowing surprises. Suitable for all ages, children under 14 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. £3pp. OCTOBER 27TH The Little Witch Halloween Story Show* Southwold Arts Centre 1:30pm. Combining magical >
WHAT'S ON? OCTOBER 29TH An Evening of The Comic Strip with Peter Richardson & Guests The Cut, Halesworth 7:30pm. Feat. a live Q&A with Peter Richardson & Phil Cornwell, this screening showcases iconic British comedy with clips of Rik Mayall, Stella Street highlights, & short films The Hunt for Tony Blair & A Fistful of Travellers Cheques. 1: Best of Rik Mayal (10 mins), 2: The Hunt For Tony Blair (46 mins), 3: Best of Stella Street (25 mins) & 4: A Fistful of Travellers Cheques (30 mins). £20pp. OCTOBER 30TH Free Community Coffee Morning Reydon Village Hall 9am-11:30am. Tea/coffee & toast (pastries when available). Event by Reydon Village Hall Management Committee in conjunction with Reydon & Southwold Community Fridge & Pantry. OCTOBER 30TH Mini Market & Café Blythburgh Church 10:30am-12pm. Gift stalls, homemade cakes, jewellery, clothes, crafts, etc. Refreshments available in the café. Free
entrance, large car park, everyone welcome! Last Fri every month (Mar-Oct). OCTOBER 30TH Space Workshop* Southwold Arts Centre 11am &1:30pm. Space-themed hands-on workshop by VSTEAM Education invites children to drive mini gesture-controlled robots, create water tornadoes, & build glowing star constellations. Children under 14 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. £3pp. OCTOBER 30TH Golden Anniversary Appeal Fund Quiz Night Reydon Village Hall 7pm. £5pp. BYO drinks & snacks. Teams of up to 6. Raffle! Soft drinks, sweets & crisps available to buy. OCTOBER 30TH 1816 Southwold Arts Centre 7:30pm. Produced by Dionaea Theatre & from the company behind SiX, 1816 is a comedydrama musical that re-imagines Byron, Mary Shelley, & their friends trapped by bad weather at Lake Geneva as they spark the creation of Frankenstein & the modern vampire novel. £14pp/£17pp.
OCTOBER 31ST Wenhaston Produce & Craft Market Wenhaston Village Hall, IP19 9EP 10am-12:30pm. A wide & ever-changing range of local food, produce, crafts, plants, home baking & pre-loved treasures. Raising funds for village hall maintenance. New stallholders always welcome, stall fee £10. To book a stall, contact Carol: 01502 478732 or email: caz-mike@outlook.com
* Part of the Southwold Science Week STEM programme All event details listed on our 'What's On' pages 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.
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OCTOBER 28TH Under the Greenwood Tree Southwold Arts Centre 7:30pm. Combining spoken word by renowned actor Mark Carey with live music by ARKangel, this performance adapts Thomas Hardy's novel into a warm fusion of story & music exploring love, social class, & disappearing village traditions. £16pp. OCTOBER 29TH Mobile Planetarium* Southwold Arts Centre 11am & 1:30pm. Immersive presenter-led planetarium experience inside the SENDfriendly Auriga Star Dome takes audiences of all ages on a journey through planets, stars, & galaxies. Children under 14 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. £3pp. OCTOBER 29TH Cocoons Around Stars, Sun & Earth* Southwold Arts Centre 7:30pm. Astrophysicist Michael Rowan-Robinson explores the impacts of dust & molecular cocoons around stars, the Sun, & Earth, linking space surveys & the 1816 volcanic winter to the urgent reality of modern climate change. £5pp.
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Halesworth branch of
Jumble Sale Sat 17th October 10am - 12pm
Holton Village Hall Lodge Road, IP19 8RZ
Tea, Coffee & Delicious Cakes, Bric-a-Brac, Books, Toys, Ladies, Men’s & Children’s Clothes
Call: 07923 063399 Email: holtonandblyfordvillagehall@gmail.com
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> storytelling & live animal encounters to teach children fun facts about millipedes, snakes, tarantulas, & tree frogs. Suitable for all ages, children under 14 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. £3pp. OCTOBER 27TH Halesworth Harmony Rehearsal The Cut, Halesworth 7pm-9pm. Halesworth Harmony are actively looking for new members (especially men!) Come for a free taster session, no experience necessary, everything taught by ear. You'll receive a warm welcome! More info, email: halesworth.harmony@gmail.com OCTOBER 27TH Colour Music* Southwold Arts Centre 7:30pm. This practical workshop led by lighting designer Jim Laws explores Colour Music, using theatrical lighting techniques to visually express the sentiments behind pieces of music. £5pp. OCTOBER 28TH Halesworth Scarecrow Festival & Pumpkin Trail Halesworth Half term fun! Halesworth's shops will be displaying scarecrows where you can find letters to solve the puzzle to fill in your trail sheet! You can also vote for your favourite scarecrow. Then between 1:30pm-3:30pm, head to St. Mary's Church for free crafts, snacks & even more fun! OCTOBER 28TH Chemical Reactions: Acids & Alkalis* Southwold Arts Centre 11am & 1:30pm. Interactive workshop for children aged 6-10 exploring chemical & physical reactions through experiments with slime, rocket launches, & acid-powered electricity. Children must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. £3pp.
Halesworth & Southwold Community News - October 2026 - 9
Fri 2 Oct, 7:30pm
Thu 8 Oct, 7:30pm
12 MONTHS IN ESSEX Painter Simon Carter and filmmaker son Noah present a documentary tracking a year of Simon’s creative process in his studio and the Essex landscape.
£8
KIYUKU LAND Set in Kenya’s tea highlands, this documentary follows a land claim against a multinational corporation, exposing the ongoing human toll of colonial history.
Fri 9 Oct, 7:30pm
FLOOK
Tickets
£25
Iconic Anglo-Irish folk band Flook bring their trademark blend of fiery Celtic tradition, intricate flutes, and dynamic acoustic grooves to The Cut Sessions.
Saturday 19 - Wednesday 30 December 2026 Tickets £19.50 (adults), £17.50 (U16’s), £70 (Family Ticket, 2 Adults, 2 children)
CINDERELLA
SCAN TO BOOK TICKETS
Tickets
£5
Fri 16 Oct, 7:30pm
Sat 17 Oct, 7:30pm
Tue 20 Oct, 2pm
THE BIG CUT QUIZ
OPERABABES
Quirky quizmaster Dean Parkin returns to host Suffolk’s funnest quiz night, featuring movie mash-ups, wrong songs, and puzzling picture rounds for teams of up to five.
Renowned classical crossover duo OperaBabes celebrate 25 years with an evening of popular classics and hits from their No. 1 album.
Tickets
£6
Sat 24 Oct, 7:30pm
WHAT'S ON AT
Tickets
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THE CUT
Registered Charity No: 291379
Tickets £18 ADV / £22 OTD
Thu 29 Oct, 7:30pm
WILLIAM SHAW LINDSAY MP William Lindsay shares the remarkable story of his great-greatgrandfather, a penniless orphaned cabin boy who rose to become a Victorian shipping magnate and MP.
Tickets £4 (non members)
Step into a world of magic with Cinderella, Halesworth’s first-ever professional pantomime at The Cut!
Sat 31 Oct, 7:30pm
AN EVENING OF THE COMIC STRIP WITH PETER RICHARDSON & GUESTS Tickets £15 ADV / £20 OTD
BROKEN FOLK & BONURU
Sonic Wave returns with an explosive double bill of genre-blending sound, featuring the improvised folk-poetry of Broken Folk and the nu-jazz grooves of Bonuru.
Join comedy legend Peter Richardson and Phil Cornwell for a live Q&A alongside a screening of classic Comic Strip Presents... highlights, including The Hunt for Tony Blair and Stella Street.
Book your tickets now for the biggest ball of the year! Tickets £8 ADV / £10 OTD
THE HORKEY Tickets
£20
Follow Cinderella as she tries to escape a life of chores for a night at the royal ball, navigating the antics of two mischievous ugly sisters with the help of her Fairy Godmother. Packed with show-stopping songs, vibrant dance routines, stunning costumes, and special effects, this festive production offers laughter and magical entertainment for the entire family.
Curated by writer Dean Parkin, The Horkey returns to The Cut for an all-day harvest celebration of Suffolk arts, featuring live music, films, talks, produce, and local crafts.
SHOWTIMES • 19/12: 1pm & 5pm • 20/12: 1pm & 5pm • 21/12: 1pm & 5pm • 22/12: 1pm & 5pm • 23/12: 1pm & 5pm • 24/12: 10:30am & 2:30pm
• 26/12: 1pm • 27/12: 1pm & 5pm • 28/12: 1pm & 5pm • 29/12: 1pm & 5pm • 30/12: 1pm & 5pm
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VISIT WWW.THECUT.ORG.UK TO SEE OUR FULL PROGRAMME AND TO BOOK TICKETS
10 - October 2026 - Halesworth & Southwold Community News
Natural Healing in the heart of Suffolk
Latest news and activities at Halesworth Dementia Carers' Fund
• Reiki • Reflexology • Ear Candling • Indian Head Massage
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Holistic therapies from Judith Samuel Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursday evenings
The Harmony Centre, Walpole - 01986 784500 216335
SUE ROBERTS MA, MBACP (Accred) UKRCF
COUNSELLOR
The Harmony Centre 01986 784500 FIRST HALF HOUR SESSION = FREE
Here is the latest update and news from the Halesworth Dementia Carers' Fund (HDCF). i-Chameleon Shop A big thank you to everyone who supported our week at the i-Chameleon shop in Halesworth this August. The shop kindly makes its space available for local charities and community groups to use, and our week there was a great success, thanks to everyone who called in, browsed, chipped in, or simply stopped for a chat. It's become a lovely annual fixture for us, and we're already looking forward to being back there next August. Thank you to the i-Chameleon team for hosting us, and to everyone who gave their time to help run the shop for the week. Thank you to everyone None of what HDCF does would be possible without the generosity and hard work of our volunteers, donors, and supporters. Whether you've given your time, made a donation, attended an event,
or simply spread the word about what we do, please know it makes a real difference to local people living with dementia and their carers. Thank you, from all of us. Remembering HDCF in your Will Some of our supporters choose to remember HDCF when writing or updating their will, as a way of making sure local families continue to have somewhere to turn in the years ahead. It's a deeply personal decision, and not one we'd ever want to press anyone on. Gifts to national charities such as the Alzheimer's Society do wonderful work and are never something to be dismissed; they fund vital research and support on a huge scale. But a gift to a small local organisation like HDCF stays right here in Halesworth, going directly to the people you may have sat alongside at the Day Centre or the Memory Café, so its impact is felt close to home, often more immediately and more visibly.
If it's something you've thought about, or would simply like to know more about how it works, please do get in touch in confidence. We're always happy to talk it through, with no obligation at all. Volunteers needed We're currently looking for a little extra help in a few areas: • Events & Fundraising: Helping plan and run get-togethers and fundraising activities throughout the year. • Trustees: We're keen to hear from anyone interested in joining our board and helping guide the charity's future. No specific experience is required, just enthusiasm and a bit of time. • Day Centre Volunteers: Help us at the Day Centre on Wednesdays or Fridaysgreat fun and really rewarding! If this sounds like you, or you'd just like to find out more before deciding, please get in touch; we'd love to hear from you. A reminder of our groups and activities Just a reminder of what's on regularly:
• Day Centre: Wednesdays and Fridays: friendship, activities, and support. • Ladies' Lunch: 4th Tuesday of every month at The Angel. • Monday Seated Movement: With Sophie from 'Back in the Groove' in Holton Village Hall from 11am-12pm. Call Sophie for more details: 07889 583334. • Memory Café: A relaxed space for a chat and a cuppa, every Tuesday afternoon, 2pm-3:30pm in the community room at the Co-op. • Singing & Yoga Sessions: On Thursdays in the Patrick Stead Day Centre, good company and gentle activity together. Yoga: 10:30am-11:30am. Singing: 2pm3:30pm. Please get in touch if you'd like more details or to book a place at any of these. Thank you all for your continued support of HDCF. Do contact us anytime for more information: info@halesworthdementia.co.uk
October half term at Halesworth Library
To advertise in Community News, call Karen on 01502 725 836
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We have lots of fun activities planned for your little ones over October half term! Come and join us on October 24th and 31st, between 11am12pm for Lego Club. Why not also drop in from 2:30pm onwards for Chess Club? It's suitable for all ages, whether you're a beginner looking to develop your skills or just searching for someone to play against! On October 25th and November 1st, we host our Family Fun Time Group from 10:30am-11:30am. Suitable for the whole family, we have a wide range of games and activities available! On October 27th, we will be running our regular Wordplay session for under-5s. Bring your little ones down for a mixture of songs, rhymes, and soft play! The fun then continues with Lego
Club from 11:15am-12:15pm. Free event, no need to book in advance! We have a special event planned on October 28th from 1pm-5pm, when we'll be visited by Suffolk Archives, who'll be hosting family-friendly Halloween Crafts, suitable for ages 4-11. Book via TicketSource to secure your place. On October 30th, we'll be hosting our very own spooky craft session between 11am12pm. This is a free event, but booking is required, please contact the library to secure your place! And finally! This month marks the 30th anniversary of Halesworth Library in its current home. Thank you to all the staff, volunteers, and customers who have contributed to the success of the library. Here's to the next 30 years!
Neat Feet
“PROFeSSIONaL FOOt t caRe” 230606
in your own home Angela Moore Dip FH MCF HP (surgical) MAFAP (Footcare) MVR Reg.No. 24490 FHP
tel: 07900 506611
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SHOP
48b Thoroughfare, Halesworth IP19 8AR Telephone: 01986 899846 Victor & Layla welcome you! Find us on Facebook!
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Southwold Library is gearing up for a busy autumn season with a packed lineup of events, courses, and drop-in support groups. From the return of its premier literary festival to language classes and kids' coding, there's something happening for all ages! Southwold Literary Festival • When: Friday 13th-Sunday 15th November (Booking opens 1st September) • Where: Southwold Arts Centre A weekend of fiction and nonfiction talks featuring stars such as Captain Corelli's Mandolin author Louis de Bernières, former BBC Look East presenter Stewart White, nature writer Robert Ashton, and biographer Geraldine Roberts. • Tickets: Talks are £7 each, with day passes available (£18 Fri, £30 Sat/Sun) or £78 for the full weekend. Book via Southwold Library (01502 442817) or Southwold Arts Centre (01502 722572).
Learning & Language Courses • More Italian & Italian Conversation: Two six-week courses run on Mondays starting 28th September (£120 for 12 hours). Choose from intermediate learning (1:30pm3:30pm) or conversation practice (3:40pm-5:40pm). • Beginner's Coding Club (Ages 7-11): Launching in October, children can learn coding basics using Scratch. Express your interest and time preference by contacting: charlotte.clark@ suffolk.gov.uk. • Get Connected Tech Help: Free drop-in support for smartphones, tablets, online safety, and emailing every Wednesday, 10am-12pm. Social Clubs & Hobbies • Crochet & Craft Club: Wednesdays, 2:15pm-4pm (£2, hot drinks included). • Blyth Poets: First Friday of the month (2nd Oct), 2:15pm3:30pm (Free). • Games Clubs: Rummikub
HOOKER HOUSE DENTAL PRACTICE
VICTOR’S BARBER
What's on at Southwold Library?
Serving the community
• Professional and Caring
• 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.
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TUESDAYS: 9:30am, 5:30pm & 7pm For details, contact Bev: 07912 849995
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Halesworth Day Centre, The Old Courthouse, London Rd, Halesworth, IP19 8LW
(1st & 3rd Thursday, 2:15pm), Scrabble (2nd & 4th Thursday, 2:15pm), Mah-jong (2nd & 4th Friday, 2:15pm, £1), and Chess (1st & 3rd Friday, 4:30pm, free for ages 7+ and adults). • Book Club: Discussing Clear by Carys Davies on Thursday 24th September at 6:30pm. Pick up a copy at the library. • Jigsaw Swap Shop: Drop in anytime during opening hours to pick up or swap a puzzle for free. Children & Young Families • Read to Amber the Therapy Dog: First Wednesday of the month (7th Oct), 3:30pm4:30pm. Young readers can build confidence by reading aloud to Amber. • Baby Bounce & Tot Rock: Songs and action rhymes every Sunday and Tuesday, 10:30am11am (Free). • Lego Club: Every Sunday, 12:15pm-1pm. Build "Crazy Creatures" this summer. • Self-Serve Baby Weighing: Scales available daily during normal opening hours. Community & Support Services • Citizens Advice East Suffolk: Free, confidential advice on debt, housing, and benefits on the last Friday of every month (30th Oct), 10am-12pm. • Victim Care Support (Catch 22): Free support for victims or witnesses of crime, every Friday morning. • Friends of Southwold Library 100 Club: Join for £1 a month to support library services and enter the monthly £25 prize draw. For more information, bookings, or inquiries, visit Southwold Library in the Old Hospital Hub on Field Stile Road, call 01502 442817, or email: southwold.library@ suffolk.gov.uk
BecBun 7 & Hales 11 Community News - October 2026
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The Pink Ladies have once again proved the incredible generosity of their supporters, raising a phenomenal £129,000 from this year's Tractor Road Run for Cancer Research UK's breast cancer appeal. The latest fundraising total takes the amount raised by the Pink Ladies since the event began in 2004 to just under £1.5million, underlining the extraordinary impact the annual event has had over more than two decades. A total of 178 ladies took part in this year's run on Sunday 5th July, driving their pink tractors through south Norfolk and north Suffolk on the 20-mile route. Thousands of supporters turned out along the route in glorious sunshine, cheering the convoy, waving banners
and making donations as the colourful procession passed through villages and countryside. Organiser Annie Chapman said the latest fundraising figure was beyond anything the team could have hoped for: "We are absolutely blown away by this year's fundraising total. We knew the support had been incredible, but seeing the final figure in black and white is something else entirely. Every year we are amazed by the generosity of the people who support the Pink Ladies, and 2026 has been no exception. From the people who donated at the roadside to those who sponsored the ladies, volunteered behind the scenes or simply came out to cheer us on, every contribution has made a difference. The Pink Ladies are incredibly proud to raise
money for Cancer Research UK, and knowing that this money will help support vital breast cancer research makes all the hard work worthwhile." The 2026 Tractor Road Run featured tractors of every shape, size and age, with every vehicle transformed into a celebration of pink. Drivers embraced the spirit of the event with colourful outfits, balloons, ribbons and bunting. The event has now raised almost £1.5million for Cancer Research UK's breast cancer appeal since it was first held as a one-off fundraiser in 2004. Annie added: "When we started this event, I don't think any of us could have imagined that more than 20 years later we'd be talking about figures like this. We are so proud of everyone who has been
part of this journey. This is a huge team effort, and our supporters should know just how much their generosity means to us - and to the researchers working towards better treatments and outcomes for people affected by breast cancer." The Pink Ladies would like to thank everyone who took part in the 2026 Tractor Road Run, as well as the volunteers, sponsors, local communities and thousands of supporters who helped make the event possible. Special thanks also go to TMO and Cadent for their huge help in modifying and managing the roadworks in Harleston, allowing the run to pass through the town quickly and safely. For more information about the Pink Ladies' Tractor Road Run, visit: ladiestractorroadrun.co.uk
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2026 Pink Ladies' Tractor Run raises incredible £129,000 for charity
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October 2026 - BecBun 8 & Hales 12 Community News
EDUCATION
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Edgar Sewter Playschool and Out of School Club Our established, independent, Ofsted-registered setting within Edgar Sewter School is a great start for two-year-olds, and our new children have settled in really well! We offer a purpose-built environment with ample outdoor space and qualified, experienced practitioners. We're open Monday to Friday during term time, offering fulland half-day sessions, with
funded places available. Our Breakfast Club (from 8am) and Out of School Club (from 3:30pm) run daily for children aged four and up. We are open during the October half-term and are registered for Tax-Free Childcare. To visit, book a place, or ask for further information, please call us on 07796 044277 or email: esplayschool@gmail.com. We look forward to welcoming you!
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Adult wellbeing sessions launch at Beccles Forest School This is a regular session and you're welcome to watch nature change around you, as the months turn. Each session costs £10 per person, including a fireside snack, and runs from 10am-12pm. Booking is essential, please go to: bookwhen.com/ becclesforestschools to book yourself and your friends or family in.
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Every month, on a Saturday, the Forest School will be a quiet, adult-only space, where people can take the time to just be in nature. We will truly pause. We'll enjoy some welldeserved me-time beneath the canopy of The Wild Meadow and Eagle Wood. There will be seasonal crafting and feasting with friends.
When you know, you know. .
Choose the school that feels like coming home. Register for Open Day or book a private tour at
langleyschool.co.uk
EDUCATION
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BecBun 9 & Hales 13 Community News - October 2026
Key considerations when selecting the best school for your child one family may not necessarily be the best fit for another, so it's important to balance personal recommendations with your own research. Another key factor is the support available outside normal school hours. Many families rely on breakfast clubs, after-school clubs or holiday provision to help manage busy work schedules. These activities can also offer children opportunities to develop new interests, make friends and build confidence. When comparing schools, it's worth finding out what extracurricular activities are available and whether they meet your family's needs. Perhaps the most important step in the decision-making process is attending open events. Open days and evenings provide a valuable opportunity to see the school in action, explore the facilities and get a feel for the atmosphere. They also allow you to meet teachers and senior staff, ask questions and learn more about the school's values and approach to learning. Pay attention to how staff interact
with pupils and how welcoming the environment feels. Ultimately, choosing a school is about finding the right fit for your child. By considering practical factors, gathering
recommendations and taking advantage of open events, you can make an informed decision with confidence and help set the foundations for a happy and successful educational journey.
Suffolk 2026/27 Term Dates Autumn Term Tuesday 1st September 2026 - Friday 18th December 2026 Half Term Holiday Monday 26th October 2026 - Friday 30th October 2026 Christmas Holiday Monday 21st December 2026 - Sunday 3rd January 2027 • Spring Term Monday 4th January 2027 - Thursday 25th March 2027 Half Term Holiday Monday 15th February 2027 - Friday 19th February 2027 Easter Holiday Friday 26th March 2027 - Sunday 11th April 2027 • Summer Term Monday 12th April 2027 - Wednesday 21st July 2027 Half Term Holiday Monday 31st May 2027 - Friday 4th June 2027 Summer Holiday From Thursday 22nd July 2027
ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH A LOCAL SCHOOL? Please send over any updates, awards and other school news to: edit@micropress.co.uk
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Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions many parents and guardians will make. With so many factors to consider, it can feel a little overwhelming at first. Taking the time to research your options and visit schools can help you find the environment where your child will be happy and able to thrive. One of the first practical considerations is location and travel. A school may have an excellent reputation, but it's important to think about the daily journey. A long commute can make mornings more stressful and leave children tired at the end of the day. Consider how your child will travel to and from school, as well as how easy it will be for you to attend parents' evenings, school performances and other events. Recommendations can also be a valuable source of information. Speaking to friends, neighbours and other parents can provide useful insights into a school's culture and community. However, remember that every child is different. What works well for
October 2026 - BecBun 10 & Hales 14 Community News
Patrick Spencer MP
An update from Harvest Halesworth ASH A reminder to think long term
Westhall's ninth Apple & Pumpkin Festival takes place on October 3rd from 1pm at the Village Hall and Pleasure Ground in Westhall IP19 8RQ. Plenty of traditional fun and games to be had, with an array of tractors on display, wellywanging, guess the weight of
the pumpkin, Brampton Bowls with their imaginative (and very popular) pumpkin-themed bowling games, tombola, fun games and tractor pulling. A colourful array of pumpkins and gourds will be available for sale, as well as apples from the local orchard, flowers and local produce.
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Open Friday,Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm
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Inside the village hall, you'll find artisan craft stalls, fantastic art show by local schools, and as you'd expect, there will be great refreshments courtesy of the church team (and something stronger from the community owned Racehorse Pub right next door and open all afternoon). Last year, we welcomed over 400 people throughout the afternoon (despite the weather) and it was fantastic to see so many families enjoying a lovely afternoon out. The Festival is a community event - supported by the Westhall Community Council and local community groups - focused on celebrating the bounty of the season that we are so fortunate to enjoy in this very special part of Suffolk. Previous years proceeds and donations have helped East Anglian Air Ambulance, East of England Ambulance Service Trust as well as local community clubs and groups. Please come along and join in the fun. You can also follow us on Facebook.
That means supporting our young people and giving them opportunities to build their futures here in Suffolk. It means looking after our villages and neighbourhoods while allowing them to grow and adapt. It means supporting local businesses and agriculture, caring for our countryside, and making sensible long-term investments in the services and infrastructure our communities will need in the years ahead. The benefits of those choices may not always be immediately visible. In a world which increasingly expects instant results, that can be frustrating. But farmers understand better than most that planting a seed today does not produce a crop tomorrow. Some things require patience, persistence and trust in the future. As harvest is celebrated across Central Suffolk and North Ipswich this autumn, it is an opportunity to be thankful for what previous generations planted for us. But perhaps it should prompt another question too: What can we plant today that somebody else will be grateful to harvest tomorrow? If you need support or want to keep up with my work, you can contact me via email at: patrick. spencer.mp@parliament.uk, by telephone on 01728 726612 or sign up for my e-newsletter at: www.patrickspencer.co.uk
Halesworth ASH is exploring community energy and biodiversity in a series of workshops to be held over the weekend of 25th September. "This marks our 4th year of our Autumn event, and each year we've done something slightly different, and always with the aim of engaging the people of Halesworth and our surrounding villages with positive ways to discuss the explore the changes to our climate and what action we can take locally," says Rachel Kellett, Director and founder member of Halesworth ASH. After the weather we've seen this year, we're delighted to have the community energy workshop (part of East Suffolk Council's Future Energy Landscapes project) as part of our package. Professor Peter Hobson will wake us up with a Friday evening talk in St. Mary's Church, Halesworth on 'Energy, Life & Indispensable Biodiversity' which provides the framework for the weekend. Saturday morning's Community Energy Workshop (facilitated by the Future Energy Landscapes team) will take place in the nearby village of Westhall and we welcome people who want to talk about community energy across the Halesworth area. Back in Halesworth on Saturday afternoon; "We'll take a deep-dive into scoping out a bio-diversity action plan for Halesworth and the surrounding villages," says Jim Green (Chair of Halesworth ASH). "The aim
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is to pull together the amazingly knowledgeable and talented people from the area, who know the strengths and weaknesses of our environmental assets, from Halesworth's Millennium Green (the largest in England at 55 acres), to the state of the river Blyth as it winds through Wenhaston, and start to map these and see how collectively, we can support these spaces and see if we can begin to connect them up to help build a thriving eco-system. Having experienced the hottest summer on record, we're all beginning to understand that we need to cherish our green spaces, which provide respite from the heat for us as well as critical habitat for the birds and animals, plants and trees that are an important part of our ecosystem and, of course, bring us great joy. For more information, visit: halesworthash.com
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Westhall Apple & Pumpkin Festival
As we travel around our towns and villages, it's difficult to miss the signs of harvest. From Creeting Saint Mary to Great Glenham, fields that were green only a few months ago have turned golden, combines are at work, and tractors once again become a familiar sight on our country roads. Harvest is a wonderful reminder that worthwhile things rarely happen overnight. Long before a crop is gathered, someone has prepared the ground and planted the seed. There are months of work in between, much of it unseen. There is uncertainty too: the weather cannot be controlled and not every seed that is planted will flourish. Yet without that decision to plant in the first place, there can be no harvest later. I think the same principle applies to our communities. Many of the things we value today are the result of decisions made years, sometimes generations, ago. Someone planted the trees we now enjoy. Someone established the village hall, sports club or community organisation that brings people together. Previous generations built our churches and schools and created businesses which continue to provide local jobs. Our responsibility is not simply to enjoy that inheritance, but to ask what we are planting for those who come next.
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Halesworth & Southwold Community News - October 2026 - 15
Halesworth Town Council
W A V E N E Y
STOVES
Scones, storms, and quiz brainteasers at August meeting
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in August to shelter from what we thought would be the unbearable heat, only to listen as the rain poured down and the thunder rumbled. However, we still managed to enjoy the excellent jam and cream (or cream and jam) on our scones with a welcome cup of tea. We exercised our brains with one of Pat Miller's fiendish quizzes and had an opportunity to chat and socialise.
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Halesworth WI members enjoyed the talk and slides by David Naylor, a volunteer at the Minsmere Bird Reserve, at our last meeting and were horrified by the devastating fires that took place shortly after this, leading to the destruction of the heath and wildlife. The next month's meeting followed this year's summer heatwave, so we gathered in the Day Centre
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RAFA Beccles & Southwold Area Group
Lest we forget that we could enjoy the freedoms we have today. A total of almost 3,000 personnel engaged with the enemy, and hundreds of British and allied pilots gave their lives to defend our nation against enemy action. The commemoration service was led by the Revd Mark Bee. Our guest of honour for the parade and service (who gave a talk on the battle, read the eulogy, and delivered the salutation) was Air Marshal M. R. Flewin CBE, Air and Space Commander, Royal Air Force. RAFA Beccles and Southwold
Group President Brian Vousden commented: "Despite the difficult weather, ten standards were on parade to signify support for this most important day in our calendar, marking the seventeenth parade for RAFA in Beccles and Southwold. We are most grateful for the support of so many local organisations who joined us in memory of the sacrifice of so many brave servicemen, women, and civilians in 1940. We are honoured and privileged to commemorate the day. We will remember them."
Scarecrow Festival set to be out of this world! Get ready for lift-off as the Halesworth Scarecrow Festival returns with a new theme for 2026: Space! The shops and businesses all around town will once again be taking part with a vast array of creative scarecrow creations. The Trail sheets will be available from Hetty's Little Copy Shop and the Library in the Thoroughfare and the Halesworth Bookshop in the Market Place. Complete the trail and find the letters hidden in the shops which will spell out the words on the forms. And don't forget to vote for your favourite scarecrow. The event takes place between October 17th-31st.
To advertise in Community News, call Kasey on 01502 725 801
Keep your eyes peeled for other events happening across the town including children's crafts and a family picnic at St. Mary's Church. Visitors from Lowestoft and Beccles can also hop on the special Scarecrow Train on October 28th, run by East Suffolk Lines. The special priced tickets include your trail forms and other spooky goodies! Tickets can be booked on the Greater Anglia website. Dates for your diary: • November 21st: Christmas Lights Switch On • December 12th: Halesworth Christmas Market
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On September 13th, the local RAFA Beccles & Southwold Area Group was joined by many ex-service veterans with their standards, RAFAC Cadet Squadrons 759 (Beccles) and 467 (Lowestoft), Royal British Legion branches, and invited guests. They all paraded at St. Michael's Church, Beccles, to pay homage and give thanks to the many brave men, women, and civilians of the Royal Air Force and allied nations' air forces who gave their lives in the Battle of Britain in 1940 so
Lumos proudly unveils a brand new concert experience with its spectacular Opera Candlelight Concert, taking place on Saturday, October 3rd at the historic St. Edmund King & Martyr Church in Southwold. Guests can immerse themselves in the passion and power of opera set within the glow of hundreds of candles, where the elegance of classical music seamlessly blends with the intimacy of Lumos' signature candlelight atmosphere. This unforgettable event features live renditions of Andrea Bocelli's most beloved masterpieces (including; Time To Say Goodbye, The Prayer, If Only, Nelle Tue Mani, 'O Sole Mio, and Moon River) performed by an ensemble comprising a pianist, a string duet, and a vocal duet. Attendees can select from
two evening sittings, with the first running from 7pm to 8pm (doors open at 6:15pm) and the second running from 9pm to 10pm (doors open at 8:30pm). The concert is open to guests aged eight and above, with seating arranged on a first-come, first-served basis within your purchased ticket tier (Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze). Located at 5 Bartholomew Green, the church is wheelchair accessible, though specific front-row placement cannot be guaranteed. For any questions or assistance, organisers can be contacted at: customerservice@lumosexperiences.com. Ticket options are the same for both the 7pm and 9pm sittings, giving attendees four tiered seating choices as well as accessible options. Guests seeking the best view can select
Platinum tickets for £45 plus a £4.50 booking fee, while Gold seating is available for £30 plus a £3 booking fee. Silver seating is priced at £25 plus a £2.50 booking fee, and Bronze tickets as well as Disability Access tickets are offered at £20 plus a £2 booking fee. All tickets must be purchased in advance online at: lumos-experiences.com/events/ southwold. You can also scan the below QR code to view and book tickets:
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16 - October 2026 - Halesworth & Southwold Community News
Halesworth Volunteers
We undertake all aspects of home improvements:
• Windows • Doors • Conservatories • Porches • Bays • Bi-folds • Heritage
Adrian Ramsay MP at our recent Community Lunch
07595 929475 07943 951433
homefrontwdws@gmail.com www.homefrontwindowssuffolk.com
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FAMILY RUN WITH 40 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE
Welcome to our latest round-up of community events, volunteer highlights, and local news from Halesworth Volunteers (HV). Community Car Service Despite the ongoing inconvenience of the frequent road closures around Halesworth, our team of fabulous volunteer drivers continues to ensure people can attend medical appointments, shopping trips, and essential outings. Our drivers mostly support older people, vulnerable adults, and those with mobility challenges. If you're interested in joining us as a new volunteer driver, or if you need to use the service, we'd love to hear from you. Please call us at 01986 874290 or email: carservice@ halesworthvc.co.uk. Community Lunch Our July lunch at St. Mary's Church welcomed special guests Adrian Ramsay MP and Constituency Office Manager Claire Stephenson. Adrian chatted with guests, learned about our work, and drew the July 100 Club winners. Guests enjoyed ratatouille, quiche, sandwiches, cakes, and a special touch with fancy napkins from James. A huge thank you to Adrian and Claire for visiting, and to our wonderful volunteers, from the bakers and servers to drivers and bus buddies, who make this possible every month. 100 Club Winners • July: 32 (K. Elliff), 22 (J. Thrower), 10 (K. Eddie) • August: 31 (Neil Coby), 20 (Stephen Martin), 36 (Anonymous) Next Lunch: Wednesday, September 30th (serving soup!). No booking needed, everyone is welcome on the last Wednesday of every month! Chinny's Social Join us for Coffee & Chat on the first Tuesday of every
month at Chinny's Events Bar. Drop in, make new friends, and enjoy delicious food. Next Date: October 6th, 12pm-2pm. Halesworth Community Larder A huge thank you for all the wonderful summer donations! Generous contributions came from Berry Farm, Holton Community Garden, Dave's allotment, Jo at Herne Hill Farm, Kay, Julie, Rumburgh Residents, Spectra Packaging, Bramfield Church, plus delicious piccalilli from Eileen and Zoe. The Larder is open to everyone, pop in to shop our stock of fresh local produce! Contact: larder@halesworthvolunteers.org Get in Touch: To learn about our Community Lunch, Isolation Busters, befriending, or shopping support, call: 01986 875600 or email: info@halesworthvolunteers.org 1980s-Themed Fundraising Quiz Our 80s-themed quiz celebrating 40 years of HV was a huge success, complete with eight competing teams, visits from "Madonna" and "Suggs," and victory for team Footloose. Special thanks go to our hosts Cleo and Simon at The Angel, as well as quiz masters Chris and Ricky. By popular demand, our next event at The Angel will be a 90s-themed quiz night on October 21st, complete with interval nibbles, a prize draw, and a potential appearance from the Spice Girls. Entry is £2 per person, with prizes for the winners and teams of four recommended. Open Garden Our July 19th Open Garden event at the Alan Witherby garden was a wonderful success, raising an impressive £1,010 in partnership with Friends of Halesworth Community Health & Care. Visitors enjoyed the sunshine alongside tea and cake, and we extend a huge thank you to everyone who attended, as well as the volunteers who
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A news update from Halesworth Volunteers
DO YOU OWN/RUN A PUB, CAFÉ, RESTAURANT OR HOTEL? Our November editions of Community News will include our ever-popular ‘Festive Dining’ feature, which will reach 16,500+ local Halesworth & Southwold people! If you’ve got your Christmas party menus/ events sorted and want to let the community know what you’ve got on offer... we can help!
Call Karen 01502 725836, Kasey 01502 725801 or email info@yourcommunitynews.co.uk to find our more
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baked and helped make the day possible. Coffee Morning Angel Podiatry hosted a fantastic fundraising coffee morning on July 22nd, raising £235.25 for HV with plenty of tea, coffee, and sweet treats. Huge thanks to Lisa and her team, SPAR, and Melons Greengrocer for donating a hamper, as well as everyone who dropped in to support the event. Latitude Over 30 of our amazing volunteers returned to Latitude this year to staff AIR Hub 3 in Family Camping. Working 24/7, they provided festival-goers with directions, friendly support, and guidance to welfare and safeguarding facilities. A massive thank you to everyone who gave their time to help! Westhall Racehorse 80s Musical Bingo & Disco Join us on October 8th at 7pm as we team up with Brenda and the Westhall Racehorse for an 80s Musical Bingo & Disco fundraiser. Tickets cost £10 and include an 80s-style buffet, with Hoppa bus transport available upon request. To buy tickets, pop into the pub, visit the HV office, call 01986 875600, or email info@ halesworthvolunteers.org. Halesworth Golf Club Charity Golf Day Celebrate HV's 40th anniversary at our first Charity Golf Day at Halesworth Golf Club on October 16th, featuring 18 holes of Better Ball Pairs on the Blyth Course. Entry is £50 for non-members and £40 for members, which includes arrival bacon baps and coffee, a onecourse meal after play, plus prizes, an auction, and a raffle. Tee-off starts at 7:45am, and all proceeds support HV. For entry forms, hole sponsorship, or raffle donations, email info@halesworthvolunteers.org. Karen Kerridge, Director
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Halesworth & Southwold Community News - October 2026 - 17
Christmas Party Night
Wed 16th & Thurs’ 17th of December
Includes disco & dancing, arrival cocktail and after dinner shots Roast tomato & red pepper soup with basil pesto & toasted sourdough Pressed ham hock terrine with chefs’ piccalilli, salad & toast Crispy smoked haddock fishcake with cheesy creamed leek fondue Pumpkin falafel, aubergine shawarma & Fattoush salad Roast local turkey, chestnut & Turkey leg stuffing, port onion gravy, pigs in blankets, roast potatoes with bacon & chestnut sprouts (Nut roast option available) Pan roast chalk stream trout fillet, crushed baby potatoes with pea & herb veloute Risotto of wild mushroom, Buffalo mozzarella & Salsa Verde Chargrilled ‘Christmas’ Wagyu burger – Camembert, cranberry & bacon, served with fries & ‘slaw Chefs’ sticky toffee Christmas pudding with Rum sauce & Brandy butter Crumble of the moment with vanilla ice cream Double chocolate brownie, chocolate whip, Oreo crumb & caramelized white chocolate Selection of European & British cheeses with chefs’ chutney & biscuits - Supplement of £5.95 3 courses - £39.95 Booking essential for any size party *Christmas crackers included*
ALSO AVAILABLE:
Christmas Party Menu 2 Courses £24.95 | 3 Courses £29.95 Gourmet Party Menu 3 Courses £45.95
TEL: 01502 725713 | ADMIN@SAILLOFTSOUTHWOLD.UK .
18 - October 2026 - Halesworth & Southwold Community News
Halesworth Town Council
An update from the Halesworth Community Hub & Early Years Service branch of Cancer Research UK Public Consultation The Community Hub & Early Years Service Public Consultation will be taking place on September 28th from 2pm-7pm and September 29th, from 9am-2pm at the Stables, behind the Angel Hotel. This is an opportunity for residents to find out more and ask questions about the project on the Dairy Farm site (off
Saxons Way). The consultation will present ideas on design, layout and uses for the building. Councillors and consultants will be on hand to respond to questions you may have, and there will be an opportunity to submit your written responses too. Refreshments will be available on both days. An
online survey will be available for a set period. Following this event, there will be a display in the upper room of Halesworth library, on October 2nd and 3rd (accessible during Library opening hours only). While this will not be staffed, there will be provision for written comments to be submitted by anyone visiting the display.
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We'd like to thank Bella and Will at The Old Hall Café and Maze for very generously agreeing to host The Maze by Torchlight event for us again this year on August 21st. This is always such a fun event, featuring our traditional fête-style games, which everyone enjoys before the maze gates open. The games can become quite competitive, so congratulations to all the adults and children who won a prize! We don't have a final total raised for the evening just yet, but we'll let you know how we got on in the next edition of Community News. We also have to say a massive thank you to volunteer Gill for selling books and jigsaws from her house in Dukes Drive. In the
three years that Gill has been doing this, she's raised an amazing £1,500. Sadly, Gill has decided to step down from selling books, so she will no longer be accepting book donations. Thank you to all of Gill's regular customers for supporting Cancer Research. Happily, as a valued member of the team, Gill will still be volunteering with us at our events. We also, sadly, have had to say goodbye to Sophia, our Area Manager from Cancer Research UK. Sophia has been looking after us for the last four years and has been a joy to work with; nothing was ever too much trouble, and we will miss her. When we first met Sophia, we all gathered at committee member Arlette's house, so it was only fitting that we should meet there again to say
our goodbyes. Thank you, Arlette, for hosting this. Our gift to Sophia was a Catherine's Rose, which raises funds for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity (sadly, there isn't a Cancer Research Rose). Dr Clarke, our president, presented Sophia with her gift, and she was delighted. Our next event is our very popular Jumble Sale on Saturday, 17th October in Holton Village Hall from 10am-12pm. We're always happy to receive good, clean, saleable items. However, we're sorry that there are items we're unfortunately not allowed to take, including: • Electrical items • Knives • Safety helmets of any kind • Child car seats
• Cots • Knitted toys • Large items of furniture We'll be serving light refreshments (tea, coffee, and cake), so please pop in, even if it's just for a cup of tea and a delicious treat, because every penny we raise makes a difference. Sadly, Cancer Research can currently only fund one in five new research projects, you have to wonder what new breakthroughs might have been possible in the four that were turned down. So please, friends old and new, continue to come along to our events and have a good time while helping us raise funds for this vital work! Thank you all, Dawn Davis, 01986 873640
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Local people are being invited to help shape the future of one of the Halesworth area's most remarkable historic buildings. Walpole Old Chapel, just outside Halesworth, is currently developing Walpole Old Chapel Unwrapped, a project exploring how the historic Chapel can be enjoyed and used by more people in the future. As part of the project, the team wants to hear from people living in Halesworth, Walpole and surrounding villages about
the kinds of activities, events and experiences they would like to see there. You don't need to know anything about the Chapel to take part. In fact, the team is particularly keen to hear from people who have never visited before, or who may not even have heard of Walpole Old Chapel. Becky Jefcoate (Activity Planner) said: "Walpole Old Chapel is an extraordinary and atmospheric place, but this project is really about looking forward as
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well as looking back. We want to understand what local people would genuinely enjoy doing here and what might encourage people who haven't visited before to come through the door. We're exploring all sorts of possibilities; from creative workshops, music and performances to community events, talks, immersive experiences and new ways of discovering the Chapel and its stories. But rather than simply deciding what people might want, we want to ask them." Join a local focus group Two friendly, informal focus groups will take place at Halesworth Library on September 25th, from 11:30am-1pm and 2pm-3:30pm. The sessions will explore what could make Walpole Old Chapel feel welcoming and relevant, what might encourage people to visit, and the kinds of activities and events local people would enjoy. No knowledge of heritage or the Chapel is needed. Everyone taking part will receive £25 as a thank you for their time. Places are limited. To reserve a place, email:
becky.jefcoate@yahoo.co.uk Have your say online, and enter a £100 prize draw People who cannot attend a focus group can still contribute through a short online survey. The survey asks for views on a wide range of possible ideas for the Chapel, including creative workshops, music and performance, community events, talks, immersive experiences and different ways of exploring its history. Everyone completing the survey can choose to enter a prize draw to win a £100 Love2Shop voucher. To complete the survey, scan the below QR code or visit: https://forms.gle/ yRT7VNeGX6uMjuDo6 The team is also keen to hear from local organisations, community groups, artists and others who might be interested in collaborating on future activities at Walpole Old Chapel. For more information, or to discuss getting involved, contact Becky Jefcoate, Activity Planner, Walpole Old Chapel Unwrapped, at: becky.jefcoate@yahoo.co.uk 224985
BecBun & Leiston 11 & Hales 19 Community News - October 2026
Southwold Building & Design Consultancy Financial focus on... awarded Regional Winner in this years' Dying without a will LABC Building Excellence Regional Awards We are super proud and pleased to have been selected as Regional Winner in the LABC Building Excellence Regional Awards 2026 - Best Residential and Small Commercial Designer. Starting our own business, during a Covid pandemic was no mean feat, and as every small business owner knows, it certainly comes with a certain amount of stress, worry, long hours and sleepless nights. In July 2020, Southwold Building and Design Consultancy Ltd was born, and to date, six-years later, we have not looked back! This has definitely been one of the biggest and best decisions we have made. Becoming Directors of our own business has given us the freedom to do what we both love doing, whilst being able to put our combined experiences, skills and knowledge to their best use.
It goes without saying, that our success in achieving this award, goes to everyone who has helped to guide us through our journey, supported us and worked alongside us to achieve what we initially set out to do, and of course everyone who has trusted us and put their projects in our hands. With over 45-years experience in building surveying, planning and design in the local area, we really can offer the whole design and build package, together with construction services "under one professional roof", working on any project seamlessly from start to finish. We can help with feasibility assessments, planning applications, estimating, building control applications and full project management, as well as practical advice on construction, to help you turn your design ideas into reality.
Research indicates that over half of the adult population in the UK do not have a valid Will You can contact us via phone at: 01502 (according to multiple sources). 578421 or 07880 667512 or email at: This means that when they southwoldbuildinganddesign@gmail.com die, their assets are distributed You can also visit our website: in accordance with the Intestacy southwoldbuildinganddesign.co.uk Rules which can cause all manner and also find us on Facebook. of problems if assets are sent to by David and Kathryn Vaughan undeserving members of a family - Directors, Southwold Building or, for example, a substantial & Design Consultancy inheritance is left to teenage adults without any control. Assuming you live in England or Wales, if you die Intestate, the current 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 £322,000 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 (as defined above) and then to your living parents (equally), 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. (The government claims thousands of such cases each year). If your assets 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 are financially mature enough to handle the responsibility of such wealth (this could be before they even leave school, remember). Even without considering whether tax planning might be
useful, a simple Will can prevent your assets going where they shouldn't. 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 Will preparation, whilst not legally obligatory, it is recommended that you should contact a suitably qualified solicitor or Will preparer. For inheritance tax advice, you should speak to a suitably qualified tax professional. Hope this helps Contact details: "For further information please contact robin. beadle@ensors.co.uk" Disclaimer: "Specialist advice should always be sought prior to taking any action on matters discussed in this article."
Locally, the warmest day of the month was the 14th at 33.1°C, this was the second-highest reading of 2026
Record heat and late rains A review of August and summer 2026 Here is my report on what was a warm, sometimes hot August and overall an outstanding summer. However, it did bring problems as the extended dry spell continued into a second season. This summary is compiled from the records of Stephen Bartholomew of Beccles. August 2026 • Max temperature: 33.1°C (91°F) on the 14th (vs. 29.0°C / 84°F in August 2025). • Min temperature: 9.5°C (49°F) on the 23rd (vs. 9.6°C / 49°F in August 2025). • Avg. max temp: 24.40°C (76°F) in 2026, 24.05°C (75°F) in 2025, 22.64°C (72°F) average. • Avg. min temp: 14.25°C (57°F) in 2026, 13.92°C (57°F) in 2025, 12.75°C (54°F) average. • Mean temp: 19.32°C (66°F) in 2026, 18.66°C (65°F) in 2025, 17.70°C (63°F) average. • Rainfall total: 1.19″ (vs. 0.88″ in August 2025; 30-year average: 2.37″; 2026 total: 50% of average). • Most rainfall in one day: 0.36″ on the 17th. • Wind direction (mainly): NW (8 days), E (6 days), SW (6 days), SE (3 days), W (3 days). August 2026 will be remembered for being completely dry during its first half, followed by the return of rain in the second. It was another warm month overall, capping off what has been the warmest summer season on my entire record. It was a month of two halves. The first 14 days largely continued the extremely warm trend of July, with nine days reaching 25°C or higher. Four of these days exceeded 30°C, bringing the year's total to 14, by far another record. For comparison, there were 40 days when temperatures reached 30°C or higher somewhere in the United Kingdom. Locally, the warmest day of the month was the 14th at 33.1°C. This was the secondhighest reading of 2026, though still 5.3°C lower than the 38.4°C record set on 26th June.
The second-warmest night of the year (and the warmest August night since 7th August 2020) occurred on the 13th, with a minimum temperature of 19.5°C, surpassed only by the 20.5°C minimum on 26th June. A notable "cool change" occurred on the 15th when the dominant high-pressure system finally collapsed. North-westerly winds spread across the country, resulting in a maximum temperature of only 21.5°C. This paved the way for returning rainfall and temporarily allowed Atlantic influences to prevail. The second half of August was more typical of an English summer: • 1st-14th August: Avg Max 26.8°C, Avg Min 14.8°C, Rainfall: 0.00″ • 15th-31st August: Avg Max 22.4°C, Avg Min 13.7°C, Rainfall: 1.19″ Temperatures reached 25°C or higher on only two additional days during this second period. Daytime temperatures were impacted more than nighttime values due to the moist, muggy conditions that occasionally prevailed. Only one day failed to reach 20°C (19.2°C on the 22nd), making it the coolest daytime temperature since 15th June. Although we did not experience the 62 consecutive dry days seen in Wisley, Surrey, we recorded a 50-day period from 27th June to 15th August inclusive with only 0.06″ (1.5mm) of rain. Rain returned from the 16th21st and 27th-30th, yielding three notable daily totals-including 0.36″ on the 17th, the highest single-day total since 4th June. The 1.19″ total makes this the seventh August out of the last eight where rainfall fell below average. This trend includes August 2022 (0.06″), which was recently replaced by July 2026 as the second-driest month on my entire record. The 2.50″ total recorded in August 2023 was the sole exception. Only 11.52 inches of rain (similar to 11.49 inches at this point last year) had been recorded in 2026 up to 31st August. Both
figures fall well short of expectations (around 45% of the annual average). Given that winter 2025/26 was somewhat wetter than average, what are the prospects for winter 2026/27? Summer 2026 (June, July, August) • Average Max Temperature: 24.4°C (+2.7°C vs. 1981-2010 average) • Average Min Temperature: 14.3°C (+2.4°C vs. 1981-2010 average) • Mean Temperature: 19.4°C (+2.6°C vs. 1981-2010 average) • Rainfall Total: 3.62″ (57% of 1981-2010 average) As widely reported, this was the warmest summer on record. The mean temperature was 0.8°C higher than the previous record in 2025, and 0.9°C higher than 2022 (now third-warmest). An extended stretch of above-normal temperatures occurred between 17th June and 14th August. Across the whole summer, 40 days recorded temperatures of at least 25°C. This included the hottest June day and only the second "tropical" night (20.5°C minimum) on my record within the same 24-hour period (26th June). A minimum temperature of 14.0°C or higher was recorded on 58 nights (over 60%) this season-19 in August, 23 in July, and 16 in June (with only two prior to the 15th)-compared to 45 nights last summer. We experienced our warmest June overall; July was the third-warmest month of any on my record (since 1968), while August was among the warmer examples in recent years. Two-thirds of the summer's rainfall fell in June (2.39″, or 112% of average), mostly before the 11th. July was the second-driest month on record (0.04″), and limited rain only returned during the second half of August (1.19″, 50% of average). This was the driest summer since 2022 and the sixth-driest on record, following the third-driest spring on record (1.64″ total).
Full steam ahead for the Halesworth to Southwold Narrow Gauge Railway The main event of the year at Blythburgh Station is now over, the next one will be on Easter Monday 2027. Our small number of working volunteers (both onsite and offsite) are, as usual, very busy; a great deal of work is going on behind the scenes to facilitate the long and complex process of establishing the station Visitor Centre. Just putting in the three mains services is a very expensive and long-winded procedure, and providing the foundations and putting up the building will probably take much of next spring and summer, including the cosmetic presentation as a 19th-century goods shed. We're hoping that during that time, we'll also receive a favourable decision to our planning application for a western extension of the railway, although there's a great deal of local opposition, despite the enormous efforts we've made to accommodate our neighbours' worries. Paul Taylor (Volunteer) has been leading the team to fettle up the track and 1914
engine shed site at The Folly in Halesworth, and also improving the Walberswick station site, almost at the other end of the line. Before winter, we hope to erect the station running-in board there, as well as an information board with photos and maps. The MOY private-owner Cleminson wagon replica has suffered from the wet winter and dry summer: the side doors have been repaired, are being painted in a special mix from Craftmaster Paints, and after that will be lettered and numbered, a big job on this wagon. We believe that this is the first Cleminson wagon to be built in over one hundred years. A 7.25" miniature railway is being set up at Blythburgh to widen our visitors' experience, and next year we'll have the 48DLG Ruston loco, named "Stewart" after a long-term volunteer who died suddenly this summer. This will back up the Greenwood and Batley loco, named "Helen" after the daughter of our landlord. It's been rescued from scrap, and is now approaching the end of the
summer-long rebuild which will include air brakes and a roomy cab to make driver training easier (the Greenbat has barely room for one staff member, so training has to be done by walking alongside!) Our Chairman Ken Penrose has been having regular meetings with the Southwold Railway Trust's Chairman Bob Mole, co-operation will continue and increase. Most trustees of each organisation are also members of the other.
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October 2026 - BecBun & Leiston 12 & Hales 20 Community News
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Halesworth & Southwold Community News - October 2026 - 21 218453
Wheelchair rescue
Halesworth Museum
A big thank you to Saxon Way drivers
I am continuously grateful to the several men who immediately stopped their cars to help. One particularly huge man lifted me back onto the path! To every one of you: thank you so much for your care, consideration, and quick rescue so everyone could get on their way. Blessings to you all, and thank you from the bottom of my heart. - Doreen Hale
Halesworth Angels Bowls Club
Halesworth Open Triples winners
Wrapping up 2026! our own Nigel Roberts. We will finish the season with our internal finals and I will report on those in the next edition of Community News. Outdoor lawn bowls will start again in April/May. In the meantime, our grounds team, led by Nick Gardener, will be busy preparing our green for the new season. After 50 years, it needs some serious work. We've been tremendously helped by a grant from the Heveningham Hall Country Fair Trust to restore our irrigation system. Halesworth Town Council helped improve our security by funding a container to store equipment. Next year, we hope to report on further improvements. We continue to attract new members. Any potential bowlers should look out for our Open Days next April.
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'DNA: Facts, families and fantasy' talk Personal DNA testing kits are all the rage. They are widely advertised in newspapers, magazines, and on both radio and TV. But are we being sold a pup? This was the question addressed by local archaeologist Kevin Wooldridge in the latest talk presented by Halesworth & District Museum. He kicked off his informative entertaining talk with a whizz through some of the underlying science. Then he finished with a dollop of personal experience: "I took a DNA test in late 2024. The results, when they came back, were a shock. Some folk I thought of as ancestors turned out not to be. Does this mean I am not who I thought I was?" As with all commercial DNA testing kits, Kevin's returned an analysis of where he had familial matches. But he pointed out that the geographical distribution of such matches can be misleading. "For a start, matches are found only with other people who have used the tests. Very few of us will show relationships to countries where DNA testing is uncommon or where very few people live. Furthermore, many tests taken in the UK will match with people resident in, for example, Australia or the USA. But it doesn't necessarily mean you are related to Aboriginal Australians or Native Americans, but more likely to UK expatriates. Likewise, matches to Europeans outside of the UK most likely relate to regular migrations over possibly thousands of years." So what can DNA analysis tell us? Anyone who follows crime reports, and for that matter crime fiction, will know it can help to identify culprits, sometimes going back many years. But there is scope for what many might see as abuse of the technology. Kevin explained that in the USA, investigators have been known to submit samples from crime scenes to commercial DNA
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testers hoping to obtain a match to a person, or a close relative. The close relative is likely to be innocent, and their DNA profile is being used without permission. He reassured the audience that there's no evidence of similar practice in the UK. However, DNA testing has also raised serious ethical questions. For example, The Jeremy Kyle Show, which invited participants to test the paternity of their children. The programme was eventually taken off air after the death of a participant who suffered mental anguish. DNA analysis has also been used to address questions of ancient history, showing, for example, that our modern human ancestors interbred with Neanderthals. DNA evidence has also cast doubt on the long-held theory that our ancient ancestors followed a one-way migration out of Africa. Data on shared DNA suggest movement back to Africa about 250,000 years ago. Kevin took the audience through several archaeological mysteries investigated using DNA analysis, culminating with the evidence that human remains found under a Leicester car park in 2012 were 99.99% certain to be those of King Richard III. Intriguingly, the king's DNA result tallied with the family tree on his mother's side, but there was no positive match with his father's line. Looking to the future, Kevin suggested that DNA evidence will eventually become the main source for family historians, "although often the truth is far less interesting than the anticipation of exalted ancestry - i.e. the 'Danny Dyer syndrome'." The final 2026 talk, on October 22nd, will be by Trevor Garnham, author of Blyth Meadows, an account of the people working closely with nature who have shaped the Blyth Valley landscape over millennia. This talk will take place at 7:30pm
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When you read this, you'll be surprised that outdoor bowlers have gone into hibernation. It's been a solid season for Halesworth Angel bowlers. They've played in five leagues and have comfortably avoided relegation. It hasn't always been comfortable in the heatwave. The last month has been very busy. Every year, we have a friendly tussle with Peasenhall. Having won away, we were confident of winning at home, but it was not to be and Peasenhall won the handsome trophy. The season culminated in our Open Triples Tournament, which was sponsored by Mitchell's Garage. 20 teams took the field. It was encouraging to see a number of Halesworth novices playing in their first tournament, but last year's winners had to give way to the eventual champions featuring
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If you were driving along Saxon Way just after 3pm on August 27th, you may have been caught in a tailback, and perhaps saying a few choice words! The cause of the delay was me in my electric wheelchair. As I was using the crossing from the Co-op toward the surgery, my wheel caught in the barrier and tipped me over, leaving me stranded like a beached whale.
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22 - October 2026 - Halesworth & Southwold Community News
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ACCESSIBILITY & DISABILITY ADAPTATIONS
• Ramps, handrails & widened doorways • Safe, accessible wet rooms & non-slip surfaces • Full home redesign to suit mobility needs DRAINAGE & GUTTERING
• Blocked drains, high-pressure jetting • CCTV drain surveys • Full drainage installations & repairs
213610
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CARD PAYMENTS ACCEPTED
Give The Handy Team a call today on
01986 477000 • 01502 385031
233526
COMPLETED
COMPLETED
£450,000
Wondering what your home is worth?
A well-presented two-bedroom detached bungalow featuring a spacious living room, openplan kitchen/diner, sunroom, en-suite to the master, and integral garage. Set in a desirable area with off-road parking, rear garden, and open field views.
This spacious five bedroom detached house offers a wealth of spacious accommodation throughout, plenty of off road parking and double garage, all within the popular village of Walpole.
Find out what makes Durrants different, call 01986 872553 and book your free valuation today.
SALE AGREED
NEW LAUNCH
16 Dukes Drive
6b Chediston Street
£280,000 Lenten House, Walpole
£175,000 6 The Street, Holton
EXCHANGED
£425,000 Greenfields, Rumburgh
This charming Georgian cottage situated in the centre of Halesworth presenting well with potential annex space (stp) along with permit parking.
This spacious five bedroom detached house offers a wealth of spacious accommodation throughout, plenty of off road parking and double garage, all within the popular village of Walpole.
SALE AGREED
NEW LAUNCH
£575,000
This three bedroom detached bungalow with ample off-road parking, garage and cart-lodge is set within a half-acre plot with a bar/games room to the rear.
PROPERTY OF THE MONTH: WENHASTON LODGE £835,000
34 Barley Meadow
£400,000 4 Sandy Lane
Located in a quiet setting near to the town centre, is 34 Barley Meadow. It offers ample off road parking, double garage, large garden to the rear and three bedrooms.
£350,000
This charming two-bedroom, end-terrace cottage is located in a Conservation Area within the village of Holton. It offers private off road parking, two generous size reception rooms and a garden to the rear of the property.
halesworth@durrants.com | 12 Thoroughfare, Halesworth, IP19 8AH “Everyone was always very polite and helpful. They immediately addressed any questions we had and the regular updates were really good.”
Wenhaston Lodge is a beautifully presented, detached house that is located in a popular village setting. It has been renovated to a high standard and offers three double bedrooms all with ensuite bathrooms, ample off road along with single garage and landscaped garden to the rear.
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