Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm
• Private changing rooms equipped with toilets and showers
• Underfloor heating throughout
Please view the website for availability, booking, and further details: pool@ubbestonlodge.co.uk www.ubbestonlodge.co.uk 01986 799 007
(off the B1117
Local charity DJ
Are you looking for a DJ for an upcoming function such as a wedding, anniversary or party?
Contact Leslie on 01728 605645, we offer a professional experience with a suggested charity donation of just £80. All profits go to Mind.
The Band of the Royal British Legion, Leiston has got off to a great start to the year with preparations well underway for a number of parades, events and concerts.
We're extremely lucky to have tremendous support from our band family and local community. Last year, one of our dedicated fans very kindly knitted and presented each player with a 'knitted bandsman' with our likenesses beautifully recreated in wool! Thank you Angela!
The band's also celebrating significant monetary support from the Sizewell C Fund. A grant of £59,497 was secured and the committee is working hard getting ready to spend the money on new
uniforms, instruments and a shiny new trailer to tow all our kit in. The band is an entirely volunteer-run organisation and funds such as this enable us to invest in top quality equipment.
Your next opportunities to hear the band:
• On parade in Wickham Market, marking the town's Royal British Legion 100th Anniversary, 12pm on April 12th.
• Playing at The Long Shop Museum's Steam Up event, April 19th.
• Join us at St. Margaret's Church, Leiston for a Spring Concert, in the afternoon on May 10th.
For more information about the band, please visit: leistonband.org
D.C. Patrick
4 Market Hill, Framlingham, IP13 9BB
D.C. Patrick
NEWSAGENTS
NEWSAGENTS
Specialists in home delivery for all your newspapers in Framlingham, Woodbridge and surrounding villages
Gardens are coming back to life!
April's when the gardening season really kicks off! Not only is it a busy month for gardeners in general, but it also sees the start of National Gardening Week (April 28th-May 4th).
borders) is Lavender - and now is the perfect time to plant it so that you can enjoy it throughout the summer. It's a favourite with gardeners not just for its beautiful form and fragrance but also because it attracts essential pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Most gardeners get the urge to plant it in their garden sooner or later as it can add real value with its scent and shades of purple flowers and silver leaves. To successfully grow lavender, it needs to be planted in a warm, well-drained soil with full sunand it doesn't like 'wet feet' as it promotes root rot and 'dampness' is often the reason that it doesn't perform well. It's a tough plant though and once established only requires regular pruning after flowering has finished in the Autumn.
4 Market Hill, Framlingham saH taken over ngeraG News
4 Market Hill, Framlingham Has taken over Grange News
retirement David is taking on the rounds covered by Grange news
gniwolloF obB s tetiremenr avidD is kingat on the rounds covered by Grange swne diDav sah ervo 04 arsye xperiencee and runs newsagents in worthsaleH and gham.ramlinF nue to manage the service and will be delivering 7 days a
David has over 40 years experience and runs newsagents in Halesworth and Framlingham.
Following Bob s retirement David is taking on the rounds covered by Grange news
Bob s son Craig will continue to manage
David has over 40 years experience and runs newsagents in Halesworth and Framlingham. nue to manage the service and will be delivering 7 days a
Weather permitting, you can get a head start on your growing plans, whilst keeping an eye out for any late frosts that might threaten your efforts. It's always a good idea to have some cloches or horticultural fleece close to hand to protect seeds and young plants if the temperature dips. A good way to ensure some heat stays in the ground (and that also provides much needed nutrients to growing areas), is to apply a layer of mulch around your perennials, trees and shrubs. If you do this once you have weeded, then the surface of the soil will have been loosened and the mulch will help conserve ground moisture and make weeding later on easier. You can use home grown garden compost or buy bagged mulch from garden centres. Shovel it in between the plants, and spread to a depth of about 5cm. Work from the back to the front of beds to avoid walking on the newly mulched areas.
hope you will continue to support the business and please do get in touch should you have any queries regarding eliveries in and around Woodbridge and the surrounding villages.
eW hope you will continue to support the ssebusin dan aseple do get in touch dluhos uoy evah any riesueq
We hope you will continue to support the business and please do get in touch should you have any queries regarding deliveries in and around Woodbridge and the surrounding villages.
5 Ancient House Mews, Church Street, Woodbridge, IP12 1DH Tel/Fax: 01394 383828 Email: simon.wright@emailm3.co.uk
It's also a key month for planting fruit and veg in the garden, and from now on until late autumn you'll be sowing, planting and harvesting. Finish off sowing seeds for early lettuces, summer carrots, dwarf peas, summer spinach and broad beans and start sowing beetroots, brassicas (broccoli, cauliflower, sprouts and cabbage), peas, turnips and swede. You can also plant first early potatoes, weather dependent. For beginners, some of the easiest fruits to grow are berries. Strawberries and blueberries love containers and both will crop heavily once established.
Another plant that loves container life (as well as being in
If there's one job to be done this month it's to plant out sweet peas. Their fabulous fragrant blooms are an essential part of summer and perennial varieties come back year after year. Sweet peas need plenty of feed and moisture, so add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil. Water the plants in their pots before planting out and get supports ready to position at the same time. Plant sweet peas 20cm apart, pinch out the tops of leggy stems and protect them from slugs. Other RHS April garden jobs:
• Keep weeds under control
• Start sowing seeds outdoors
• Sweet peas can be sown and planted outside
• Plant out main crop potatoes
• Plant new pond plants and divide waterlilies
• Sow new lawns or repair bare patches
• Lightly cut back lavender to stop it getting too leggy or woody
• Last chance to prune climbing or rambling roses
• Divide bamboos
• Protect fruit blossom from late frost
Band of the Royal British Legion
Framlingham College students graduate from young entrepreneur programme
Students from Framlingham College are celebrating after graduating from the Young Entrepreneur Smart Start (YESS) Programme, an initiative designed to help young people develop the confidence and life skills they need for the future.
Seven students completed the programme on March 5th, taking part in sessions focused on practical skills such as communication, decisionmaking, goal setting and resilience. The programme was facilitated by local business coach Chris Duke. For Chris, it's been inspiring to work with local students over the duration of the course. "It's been inspiring to watch these young people discover what they're capable of. Over the course of the programme, they've developed confidence, entrepreneurial thinking and real-world business skills."
working to ensure young people have access to the personal development and entrepreneurial skills that support them in education, employment and life.
Since launching, more than 280 young people from across the UK have completed the programme. "Initiatives like this are really important for young people in our local area," added Chris. "When students start to believe in their abilities and see the opportunities around them, it can have a lasting impact not just on them, but for the whole community. My ambition now is to see this opportunity reach many more students across Norfolk and Suffolk."
The YESS Programme is delivered by the YESS Foundation, a UK charity
Denise Pitot, CEO of the YESS Foundation said, "We believe every young person deserves the opportunity to build confidence in their own potential. Seeing students here in Framlingham graduate from the programme shows what's possible when schools, families and local businesses come together to support young people!"
The initiative is supported by
mentors and volunteers from ActionCOACH, a global business coaching organisation whose coaches work with entrepreneurs and business owners to improve performance and leadership.
Many coaches, such as Chris, volunteer their time to mentor young people through initiatives such as YESS. "The charity relies on the support of schools,
volunteers and local businesses to keep places free for students," added Denise. "With that support, we hope to reach more than 1,250 young people across the UK over the next year and give them the confidence and skills to shape their own futures."
For more information about the programme, visit: yessfoundation.org.uk
Framlingham College YESS Foundation graduation
Update from Leiston Town Bowls Club
The bowls club members are excited for a successful season ahead. New recruits from the last two years are already showing off their skills, finding their line and length daily. With the promise of more new members and a few skilled players from the past returning for fresh challenges, the club has decided to enter a third team. This expands our group to include two LTAA teams
in the Saxmundham league, as well as representation in the Woodbridge, Three Wood Fynn, and Bob Wright leagues. Plans for further refurbishment of the green and pavilion are now in the advanced stages. Roll on April 2026 and the first roll of the green! These exciting plans are, however, tempered by the sad loss of two stalwarts, Peter and Gerald. Our best wishes also go out to two other long-term
members currently battling health issues, Paul and Fred; we hope to see them back on the green later in the season.
We are running our two tournaments again this year: the Triples on June 28th and the Pairs on September 3rd. Book early to ensure your spot! Contact Richard at 07841 647166.
Have a great season - I'll see you on the green.
Ditcher
Join our annual Easter Egg Hunt!
On April 5th at 3pm, Saxmundham Adventure Playground will be holding its Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Saxmundham Sports Ground, Carlton Park. The first Egg Hunt was held in 1992 and has been an annual event ever since, with the same organisers in attendance every year.
If you haven't attended before: we hide cardboard eggs around the playground (to enable us to do this, we will be closing the playground from 2:30pm to 3pm on the day). At 3pm the hunt begins; once the children have found three cardboard eggs, they can exchange them for chocolate eggs (which we provide). The weather has always played an important part in encouraging families to attend, but come rain, sunshine, or even snow, we will be there, and we hope you will be too! There's no charge for this event, but there will be a donation bucket available.
In December, we held our annual tombola stall at the Christmas Fayre along with a craft stall at Fishers Shop. Pam McIntyre and Kay Bott made many craft items to sell at these
two events for the Adventure Playground. The tombola (along with craft items and donations) raised a grand total of £640. Added to that total, a further £1,400 was raised by selling Pam's Christmas wreaths and memory bears - a fantastic result! Many thanks to Pam and Kay, to all those who donated items for the tombola, and to everyone who supported us on the day.
We'd also like to thank Gary at Fishers in the Market Place for allowing us to have a stall in his shop during the Christmas Fayre. He also occasionally allows us to display items for sale in his shop window, which greatly adds to our funds. Many thanks, Gary!
Last year, we were awarded a grant from Sizewell C to upgrade some of the safety surfacing on the playground and replace two picnic tables; these were all installed in November. The remaining grant money is to be spent on replacing the fencing surrounding the playground. This was scheduled to start at the beginning of February but, unfortunately, has been delayed due to weather conditions.
Adventure Playground Committee
Group
Looking at Military Records
Talk by Graham Bandy
At a recent meeting, members of Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group were treated to a masterclass by Graham Bandy on how to identify service records and ancestors history by identifying kit and uniforms. The meeting was at Saxmundham's Fromus Centre, on February 16th; Graham and several members of the audience joined via Zoom.
Graham started by sharing his long-term interest in the Armed Forces and military history from a young age. He's served in the Army twice; once in the Royal Military School of Music and a second time as an Army nurse. He also writes monthly articles for Family Tree magazine.
Looking at photos of people in uniform, he was able to correctly identify which units they'd served in and at what time. For example, if a WWI soldier was pictured wearing or carrying a steel helmet, the photo must have been taken in 1916 or later; Graham explained that Britain didn't use steel helmets until then. It seems easy if you know your uniform items, and Graham certainly does. The position of a badge on a tunic or sleeve indicated the period in which the item was worn.
Cap badges, medals, styles of headgear, belts, collar badges, and cuffs all help to date the wearer accurately and identify the theatre of war in which they served.
To find out more about our ancestors, it'd be easiest if we could simply ask them. Unfortunately, most of us don't think to do that until the family members who
hold those answers are no longer with us. Consequently, we must look at surviving documents and old photos. The census, rolls of honour, and birth, marriage, and death certificates can all provide clues. As a specific tip: if your soldier is seated on a horse, a military horse will always be wearing two sets of reins. The senior service is the Royal Navy, which has existed for more than 1,000 years. Naval officers' records starting from 1660 can be found at The National Archives. Any surviving documents prior to that date are located under the State, Chancery, and Exchequer series. Searching The National Archives website for a sailor ancestor should prove fruitful. Army lists for officers started in 1703 and have been published annually since 1740, while lists for other ranks began in 1809. The Royal Air Force was officially formed on 1st April 1918; Air Force lists have been published since 1919 and are also available at The National Archives. All in all, it was a most interesting afternoon and very useful for anyone wanting a steer on uncovering their family's military history. One final warning from Graham: Artificial Intelligence (AI) cannot be trusted, so tread carefully! Pat Carter Further programme:
• April 20th: Annual General Meeting
• May 18th: 'Apprenticeship Records' by Richard Holt
• June 15th: 'Pauper Ancestors' by Clare O'Grady
Saxmundham Adventure Playground
Alde Valley Suffolk Family History
Mallard Fencing
Winners of record-breaking photo competition announced
Three winners have triumphed in the 'East Suffolk Through the Lens' competition, which received over 530 entries.
Organised by East Suffolk Council, the competition was open to photographers of all ages and experiences, with the aim of celebrating the people and places that make the district special. This year's competition broke the record for the greatest number of entries ever submitted since the first competition in 2023.
Entrants were invited to submit photos for three categories: 'People', 'Place' and 'Under-16s'.
Each image submitted captured a unique aspect of East Suffolk and the judges had a difficult decision in choosing winners. One winner was selected from each category, with one overall winner then chosen from these three.
The overall winner was chosen from the 'People' category, with Albert Morhall's image of a morning dog walk in Kenton
Hills coming out on top. This photograph unanimously impressed the judges with its use of light and ability to capture the beauty of enjoying East Suffolk with family and friends... also including the four-legged variety!
In the 'Place' category, the judges chose a striking image of Southwold in the snow, captured by Fleur Bateman, as the winner. The image was chosen for its composition, with the pastel colours of Southwold's iconic buildings contrasted with the white snow.
Many young photographers dazzled the judges with their excellent photographs; however, Sam Cleverley's image of Bawdsey was chosen as the winner of the 'Under-16s' category. The judges particularly enjoyed the photographer's ability to confidently capture different elements of East Suffolk in just one image.
Cllr. Caroline Topping (Leader
of East Suffolk Council) and Cllr. Sarah Whitelock (Cabinet Member for Communities), who both judged the competition, said: "Yet again, we received an incredible number of fantastic photos and choosing the ones we felt were best was almost impossible. We wanted to go with the photos which we felt truly captured the essence of east Suffolk and what we all love about this part of the world - but any number of the images we received could have won and it was truly wonderful to see East Suffolk through the photographers' eyes. We'd like to thank and congratulate everyone who took part this year."
Albert Morhall's winning photograph will grace the cover of the next East Suffolk magazine when delivered to every household in the district next spring. High street retail vouchers are also on their way to the winner of each category.
Best view in Woodbridge WCC opens
its doors this May
Woodbridge Cruising Club (WCC) is holding an open day on May 3rd, from 12pm-3pm when the bar in the club house, River Walk, Woodbridge will be open to non-members. If you want to meet friendly members, find out about the club and enjoy a drink with probably the best view in Woodbridge, do pop in.
Meanwhile, on-shore activities continued in March, with the Fitting Out Supper, a formal occasion with a delicious three-course meal. This marked the official start of the cruising
season, under the talented team of Rosemary, Sally and assistants.
Members are looking forward to April events including the Spice Night (with six unique dishes of authentic cuisine) and the Indoor Yacht Race. The newly established Games Night (hosted by Rosemary and Brian) with a variety of board and indoor games, are a popular addition to the winter calendar.
The Beatles Quiz Night was a sellout and raised funds for East Anglia Sailing Trust, and the Music Night saw talented club
members playing and singing, including the Jetsam Ukulele Band.
The Cruise meeting (hosted by Andy) was a chance to hear all about the summer cruises, the raison d'etre of the club. The shared experience of the unique blend of sailing, navigational challenges, great company and sociable dinners make club cruises so popular.
The model boat challenge in April/ May is the inaugural cruise and a hotly-fought contest between WCC, and the Model
Boat Club, organised by Alex. The Thursday walks come to end in April, thank you to William for organising these, and all the walk leaders.
Wednesday barbecues will be running through the summer from May onwards, and again are a welcome social event.
If you have a genuine interest in sailing and the sea, have a look at our programme of maritime related events on our website at: woodbridgecruisingclub. org. New members are always welcome.
of owning a dogand why their needs matter
Pet ownership brings countless benefits, and for many households, a dog is the perfect companion.
Whether it's the warm welcome at the door or the simple comfort of having a loyal friend by your side, dogs have a remarkable ability to brighten our daily lives. Studies consistently show that owning a dog can reduce stress, improve mood, and even encourage a more active lifestyle.
But while dogs give us so much, it's important that we meet their needs in return.
Regular exercise is one of
the biggest responsibilities of dog ownership. Most dogs require at least one or two good walks each day to stay physically healthy and mentally stimulated. Suffolk's green spaces and coastal paths make it easy to turn those daily walks into enjoyable routines for both owner and pet.
Diet is another essential part of keeping a dog healthy.
Different breeds-and even individual dogs-can have specific dietary requirements.
Choosing high-quality food that suits your dog's age, size, and health condition can help prevent issues ranging from
weight gain to digestive problems. If in doubt, a vet can offer guidance tailored to your pet. And then there's the ongoing care: grooming, nail trimming, flea treatments, and regular check-ups. Even short-haired breeds benefit from a good brush and routine care to keep their coats healthy and to spot any concerns early. In the end, the rewards far outweigh the effort.
A well-cared-for dog is a happy dog-and a happy dog brings joy, companionship, and a little extra sunshine to everyday life.
Accessories
Beds,
East Suffolk Council
The Overall Winner was Albert Morhall with his image of Kenton Hills
Woodbridge Cruising Club
Roast Rack of Lamb
with a Garden Herb Crust
A celebration of British livestock and seasonal simplicity.
With Easter Sunday approaching, there's no better time to rediscover this seasonal tradition; a succulent rack of British lamb isn't just a meal, it's a celebration of the spring season and the fantastic quality found only behind your local butcher's counter.
Ingredients:
• 1 large rack of British lamb (6-8 cutlets), french-trimmed by your local butcher.
Ask your Butcher: Don't be afraid to ask for the 'chined' bone to be removed. It makes carving at the dinner table much easier and shows off the craftsman's skill!
• 2 tbsp English mustard. For the crust:
• 50g fresh breadcrumbs
• A large handful of flat-leaf parsley
• 1 tbsp fresh mint
• 1 tsp lemon zest.
To serve: A knob of butter and seasonal greens (asparagus or peas).
Method:
• Prep the Meat: Pre-heat your oven to 200°C. Season the lamb generously with salt and pepper. Sear the fat side of the lamb in
a hot pan for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
• The Coating: Once slightly cooled, brush the meat side of the rack with the English mustard.
• The Crust: Blitz the breadcrumbs, herbs, and zest in a processor. Press the mixture firmly onto the mustard-coated lamb.
• The Roast: Place in the oven for 20-25 minutes. For a mediumpink finish (Medium-Rare to Medium), you're looking for an internal temperature of approximately 55°C to 60°C (130°F to 140°F) before resting. Since we're using fresh
breadcrumbs and herbs, the crust can sometimes brown faster than the meat cooks. If you notice the crust getting too dark or looking "toasty" around the 15-minute mark, loosely tent a piece of foil over the bones and crust to protect them while the meat finishes.
• The Secret Step: Rest the meat for at least 10 minutes before carving into individual cutlets. This ensures the meat is succulent and tender. During this resting time, the internal temperature will actually rise by about 3°C to 5°C. Never skip this step; it prevents the juices from running out the moment you slice it.
Best of British
For decades, the local butcher was the undisputed cornerstone of the British High Street. They were the keepers of Sunday roast secrets, the masters of the midday banter, and the reliable source for the "good cut." While supermarket convenience briefly pushed these craftsmen into the shadows, the tide's turned. Today, the local butcher isn't just a relic of the past; they are the leaders of a modern food revolution.
Beyond the Plastic Wrap Choosing to "Buy British" is often framed as a patriotic duty, but for the discerning cook, it's a
matter of logic. When you step away from the supermarket aisles fluorescent lights, you're trading mystery for mastery. Local butchers can tell you not just which county your beef came from, but often the specific farm and the breed of the cattle. This transparency creates a food chain you can actually trust. In an era where we're increasingly conscious of our environmental footprint, reducing "food miles" isn't just a buzzword - it's a commitment to a sustainable future that starts on your plate. The Art of the Cut
There's a unique magic in the art of butchery. It's a skill passed down through generations, involving a level of precision that no machine can replicate.
Whether it's the perfect Frenchtrim on a rack of lamb or advice on how to slow-cook a cheaper, overlooked cut to perfection, your butcher is a living library of culinary knowledge.
• Expert Advice: Don't know how to handle a brisket? They'll give you the recipe.
• Customisation: Want your sausages a little thicker or your steaks cut to a specific weight? You only have to ask!
• Zero Waste: Butchers use the whole animal, respecting the produce and ensuring nothing goes to waste. The Heartbeat of the Community Perhaps most importantly, the butcher remains a
body of our communities. They represent a human connection in an increasingly digital world. They know your name, they remember your favorite order, and they care about the quality of the meal you're serving to your family.
By supporting your local butcher, you aren't just buying meat; you're investing in the vibrancy of your town, ensuring that the High Street remains a place of expertise, passion, and character for the next generation. This month, we invite you to skip the supermarket queue. Rediscover your local butchers and the unrivaled taste of local British produce at its absolute peak. Support your local butcher today and bring home more than just a
Healthy natural meat from the Su olk countryside, direct to your home
Suffolk Wildlife Trust
A botanical tour of Suffolk Wildlife Trust nature reserves
The March meeting of the Blyth Valley and Southwold Wildlife group were given a taste of spring as Steve Aylward, from the Suffolk Wildlife Trust, treated us to a round tour of our nature reserves.
Suffolk is fortunate in having a wide range of soil types, and therefore of plant habitats. Some of the meadows have soil that has been untouched for hundreds of years, giving them a rich variety of flora. At Martins' Meadow, fritillaries, early purple orchids and cowslips carpet the floor in spring, and varieties of grass, such as the delicate quaking grass, add contrast. There are old fruit and nut trees, with new Suffolk varieties added to replace fallen timber. Winks Meadow is another exceptional site for orchids. By contrast, woodland areas, such as Bradfield Woods, offer primroses and oxlips, dog violets and wild garlic, and the rare, crested cowwheat. Our own Reydon Woods is lucky in that the old coppices weren't bull-dozed away when the conifers were planted, leaving the dormant seeds to re-populate the woods once given the chance.
The marshes offer further diversity, and it's often the ditches that are most plant rich. The common bladderwort traps tiny insects for nourishment, and frogsbit and water soldier abound.
Taller species like ragged robin and marsh pea add stretches of colour.
The valley fens are different again, with low nutrient levels encouraging other insectivores such as the lovely round-leaved sundew, although you might need to get close to the ground to appreciate its beauty! In the east, the heathlands offer heather, foxgloves and purple milk vetch in abundance. The Saltings and shingle reserves support sea campion, and succulents like stonecrop. Lastly, Steve talked about the new reserve of Martlesham Wilds, which is being left completely alone to re-wild, the only interference being some light grazing. It will be interesting to watch it change over the years.
The beautiful photographs were evidence of the wonderful variety of flora to be found in our county, and they encouraged us to look more carefully at the plants beneath our feet.
Our next meeting is back in the Southwold Arts Centre, Cumberland Road, IP18 6JP, on Thursday April 9th at 7:30pm. Our brief AGM will be followed by refreshments, and a short film 'A Suffolk River by Canoe' featuring Paul Heiney. Admission is free, and all are welcome. Contact us at: swtblythvalley@gmail.com Penny Mansfield
Framlingham and Saxmundham Cats Protection news
One of the many services our branch provides is assistance with cats reported as feral. Last year, we were asked to intervene with several cats that appeared to lack shelter or domestic homes. These were predominantly young cats and kittens scavenging for food around bins at a local hotel.
homes. Some remain traumatised and will require additional time before they're ready for adoption. Without the dedicated support of our branch and the generosity of our donors, these cats would have faced a precarious, uncertain future.
Adrian Ramsay MP brings together community groups to inspire local eco projects
The Sustainable Communities Conference, held at the Corn Hall in Diss and organised by Adrian Ramsay MP, brought together a wide range of organisations and community groups to support and encourage grassroots environmental projects across the Waveney Valley.
the health and environment of our local areas. Today has been about helping people connect and learn from each other."
INK Festival announces 10th anniversary programme with playwriting commissions from Richard Curtis and Esther Freud
April 16th-19th, 9:30am9:30pm.
The UK's largest new short play festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary year in 2026 led by special short playwriting commissions from renowned writers Richard Curtis (Four Weddings and a Funeral, Blackadder, Bridget Jones' Diary) and Esther Freud (Hideous Kinky, The Wild, The Sea House). The extraordinary programme will stage 70 new short plays over the course of the four-day festival. These will sit alongside headline performances and talks from award-winning creatives, as well as free youth and community events, offering something fun for all the family. From its beginnings as a showcase of just 15 plays, INK has grown into a nationally recognised celebration of shortform storytelling - vibrant, inventive and accessible.
The core festival programme will see fantastic new short plays, grouped together in fours, staged across Halesworth in hour long 'pods' performed by over 50 professional actors and directors. Designed to showcase a variety of genres, these are performed in an eclectic variety of venues across the town, from traditional theatres to striking outdoor and pop-up locations across
Halesworth such as the local Food Larder, Bowling Club, Scout Hut even a Community Bus. The plays have been handselected by INK from over 1000 script submissions and will be produced as stage plays, radio plays, and rehearsed readings. Highlights of the programme include Richard Curtis's Portrait, which follows a famous actress as she engages a professional artist to paint her portrait for her husband's birthday. Alongside this, Esther Freud's Signs and Whispers will look at a couple on their way home from a magic show when a stranger from their past joins them on the tube station platform. The INKredibles' plays have been a running initiative over the past decade of the festival, where a handful of famous writers are invited to submit a piece of writing.
Alongside the short play festival, INK will also be running an exciting programme of headline events, from talks with award-winning authors and Bridgerton's intimacy coach, to readings from some of the best stories featured at the BBC National Short Story Award, and screenings of the best of short films from the 2025 Suffolk short Film Festival. Some highlights include performances from
award-winning comic Alistair McGowan, Dead Ringers' Jan Ravens and Jon Culshaw, poet Luke Wright and Di Spiers plus talks from Hugh Bonneville and Sir Tony Robinson. The INK 2026 programme also hosts a free 'schools' day' on Monday 20th April which allows hundreds of students across the region to access new writing and theatre, the only one of its kind in the country. The festival will also host workshops for budding writers, and free youth and community events to encourage the local Suffolk community to get involved in the festival's activities.
Artistic Director of INK Festival, Julia Sowerbutts comments, It's hard to believe all those years ago what began as a tiny showcase of 15 shorts has now grown into the world's biggest carnival of new short plays. Yes, ten festivals is a lot of festival. But INK has never just been about that.
Associate Director of INK Festival, James Christopher comments, Because these plays are short you never get bored. That doesn't mean they lack ambition, wit, talent and twists. What makes INK so unique is the magic mix of performers and art. There really is something for everyone!
The event connected groups and parishes interested in starting practical, community-led sustainability initiatives, as well as those looking to strengthen and expand existing projects in ways that reflect the rural context of the Waveney Valley.
Speaking after the event, Adrian said: "There's a huge amount of concern about our environment across Waveney Valley, and lots of good initiatives already happening. I've brought together communities, parish councils and local groups from across the Waveney Valley to talk about how people are already running practical environmental projects, or how they want to start them. The aim is for people to learn from and be inspired by one another.
"Across a range of topics, we've talked about the strong desire within our communities to run more grassroots environmental initiatives that make a real difference to the resilience, and
Ensors Accountants
The event, organised in response to strong interest from across the constituency, aims to help establish a collaborative network of practitioners, policymakers, land managers and community groups.
Adrian added: "We've had around 100 people here from across the constituency, representing parish councils, community groups, district councils, businesses and residents. Many are already involved in grassroots environmental projects, whether that's nature restoration, natural flood management, or community-owned energy, while others want to get involved.
I've had many parish councils say to me, 'We want to develop a sustainability plan.' They want to take practical action on things like nature recovery, food growing or flood management, but they want to learn more about how to get started. The Waveney Valley and the wider region already have some great examples of community-led environmental projects, and bringing people together like this allows others to learn from them. Today has been about making those connections, and it's been really inspiring."
Financial focus on... Exemptions from MTD
If you declared gross rental or self-employed income of £50,000 or above in your 2024/25 Tax Return, Making Tax Digital (MTD) is about to start. From 6 April 2026 (or 1 April 2026 by election) you'll need to file quarterly electronic Returns, with a fifth or balancing Tax Return after the tax year end.
But are you MTD exempt?
HMRC have a list of MTD exemptions that may apply to you. The following (correct at the time of writing) is not comprehensive but does include either automatic exemptions or those that should be applied for.
One of our foster volunteers conducted an assessment and began feeding the cats using unset traps to acclimatise them to the equipment. Over time, she was able to set the traps and successfully captured ten cats, and then brought them into our care.
All the cats were severely malnourished and infested with fleas, worms and ticks. They underwent veterinary examinations, and those old enough were neutered. It became apparent that the cats were not truly feral but rather frightened domestic cats, which had probably been abandoned. Unfortunately, one kitten required euthanasia due to a stomach obstruction caused by stones and was too small for surgical intervention. Two kittens had ingested plastic, which fortunately passed through them without complications.
Following weeks of dedicated and compassionate care, many of these vulnerable, abandoned cats have been adopted into new
Looking for a home: Cally (pictured above) came in as a stray with her kittens. The kittens have been homed and now it is Cally's turn. We believe she's approximately two-years old. Cally is extremely affectionate and playful. She likes to get up onto your lap, although she's not a fan of being picked up for cuddles. She will need a home with a large garden, in a safe area.
You can see her and all our cats looking for homes on: cats.org. uk/framandsax#adopt-all
Please visit our website: Website: cats.org.uk/framandsax, email: enquiries@framandsax. cats.org.uk, or phone: 01728 723499 for more information about adopting cats in our care; how to become a member of the branch; event dates; neutering; cat-care leaflets; how to become a volunteer fundraiser or fosterer, make a donation and other ways you can support us. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram.
Doughlicious® launches Cookies & Cream Ready to Bake Cookies with Sainsbury's
launch of its newest Ready to Bake Cookie Dough flavour, Cookies & Cream (RRP from £3.20 per box of six cookies),
available from Sainsbury's stores across the country now alongside Doughlicious' award-winning Chocolate Chip Ready to Bake Cookie Dough. When the urge to bake hits and you want a gourmet experience but without the fuss, Doughlicious has the answer with Doughlicious Ready-to-Bake Cookie Dough. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, these gluten free certified delights are made with 100% British oats and are packed with the finest natural ingredients to deliver a gourmet snacking experience in minutes - no mixing bowls, no washing upjust pop in the oven and go! Doughlicious cookies bake to perfection in minutes with pre-portioned dough, maximising convenience while minimising food waste.
Cookies & Cream Cookie Dough is comprised of dark cocoa cookie dough with white chocolate chips; Doughlicious has combined dark cocoa and black cocoa for that iconic deep, almost-black colour and rich chocolate flavour, then added creamy white chocolate pieces for the ultimate cookies and cream experience. Made with Doughlicious' signature glutenfree oat flour blend, these cookies are buttery and rich in taste but surprisingly light on the palate. Bakes into thick cookies with crispy edges and a soft centre that will have Oreo lovers declaring their new allegiance. Pop the oven on and let that fresh-baked cookie aroma fill your kitchen! Bake the whole pack to share or have a super sneaky solo snack. The Doughlicious Cookies & Cream Ready to Bake Cookies are available now in the frozen section at Sainsbury's. doughlicious.co.uk
Automatic Exemptions with no time limit include partnerships, trusts and estates; and those who have in place and have enacted a Power of Attorney due to physical or mental incapacity. Additionally, anyone without an NI number is exempt too.
Some Automatic Exemptions currently last until April 2027 only. These include those claiming farmers/artist averaging, have relevant estate or trust income or are foster carers. Additionally, those filing form SA109 (non-residents and those arriving or leaving the country) are exempt for a limited time but individual tax advice is crucial.
Other non-permanent Automatic Exemptions that currently extend beyond April 2027 include individuals claiming or transferring the Blind Person's Allowance or the Married Couples Allowance (but not the Transferable Married Allowance TMA). Lloyds Underwriters and Ministers of Religion (who file the SA102M page) also attract a limited automatic exemption. By concession, there are also exemptions for those who are
"Digitally Excluded" that can be applied for which HMRC will consider on a case-by-case basis. These include those whose religious beliefs are at odds with using digital technology; those with no internet access at home, business or suitable alternative location; and importantly anyone affected by age, health condition or disability where your condition stops you from using a computer, tablet or smartphone to keep or submit digital records to HMRC. You will not be granted exemption from MTD if you simply prefer using paper; do not want the additional cost; are unfamiliar with software; or have few digital records to submit. That said, HMRC's guidance does say that you are not automatically precluded from claiming if you currently have assistance to help you file Tax Returns as it is how it affects you that is considered. The full current list is available at: gov.uk/guidance/ find-out-if-you-can-get-anexemption-from-makingtax-digital-for-income-tax - assuming you can access it! Hope this helps Contact details: For further information please contact Robin Beadle (pictured) via email: robin.beadle@ensors. co.uk
Disclaimer: Specialist advice should always be sought prior to taking any action on matters discussed in this article.
Could you offer lovely Cally her forever home?
Classic Bakewell Tart
As the April sun begins to linger, there's no finer companion for a pot of afternoon tea on a sunny day than this Bakewell Tarta masterclass in crisp pastry, tart raspberry jam, and a sophisticated hint of Maldon Salt!
Recipe by Maldon Salt. www.maldonsalt.co.uk
Ingredients: Serves 8
For the pastry:
• 220g plain flour.
• 120g unsalted butter, cold and cubed.
• 30g icing sugar.
• 1 large egg, beaten.
For the frangipane:
• 100g unsalted butter, at room temperature.
• 100g caster sugar.
• 100g ground almonds.
• 1 large egg, beaten.
• 1 tbsp plain flour.
• 1 tsp almond extract.
• A pinch of Maldon salt.
• ½ lemon, zested.
• 100g raspberry jam.
For the icing:
• 250g icing sugar.
• 1 tsp almond extract.
• Pink food colouring.
• 1 glacé cherry (optional). Method:
Begin by making the pastry.
- In a food processor, add the plain flour and icing sugar and pulse together until well mixed.
- Then, add the cold cubed butter and pulse together again until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
- Next, add the beaten egg along with 1tbsp of cold water and pulse again until it comes together.
- Tip the dough out of the food processor and gently knead to make sure it's smooth.
- Lightly flour the work surface and then roll the pastry out until it's 1cm thick, then carefully lift the pastry to line a 23cm fluted tart tin.
- Trim off the top and gently prick the base with a fork.
- Place the lined tin into the fridge to chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 180°c.
- Once the pastry has chilled, remove it from the fridge and fill with baking paper and baking beans.
- Place the tart onto a baking tray and into the preheated oven to blind bake.
- Bake it for 15 minutes, then remove the paper and beans and return to the oven for a further 5 minutes.
- Once the pastry case is baked, remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you make the filling.
- To make the frangipane, add the softened butter and sugar to a large bowl and beat together with an electric whisk until pale, light, and fluffy.
- Add the ground almonds, egg, almond extract, lemon zest and Maldon salt. Mix again together.
- To the cooled pastry case, start with a layer of raspberry jam, spread this across the pastry evenly.
- Then on top of this spoon over the frangipane and carefully smooth with a palate knife, trying to ensure the raspberry jam and frangipane remain in layers.
- Place the tart back in the oven for 20-30 minutes until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean. Remove the tart from the oven and set aside on a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the tart is cooling you can prepare the fondant icing for the top.
- In a bowl add the icing sugar. Add the almond extract and roughly 2 tbsp of cold water to make a thick but smooth icing (add a splash more water if needed).
- Place 2tbsp of the icing into a separate small bowl and mix in the pink food colouring.
- Spoon this into a small piping bag with a small round nozzle attached.
- Once the tart has cooled, spoon over the white fondant icing and smooth across evenly.
- Then, pipe parallel lines of the pink icing across the surface. Then use a cocktail stick to create a feathered effect by dragging across in alternating directions.
- Pop a single glacé cherry in the centre, if desired. Allow the icing to set before slicing and serving.
- Enjoy!
Campsite comedy to debut at Leiston Film Theatre
A brand-new comedy drama is to premiere at the Leiston Film Theatre in September 2026.
Mourning Campers has been written by Leiston Film Theatre manager Wayne Burns and is being brought to the stage under his 'Team B Productions' banner, who also are responsible for creating the venue's popular annual Pantomimes.
Inspired by the iconic sit-com, Hi-de-Hi, Mourning Campers is set in a Suffolk holiday camp in the 1980s and follows the drama behind the scenes and on stage at Archers Holiday Camp.
At a time when the package holiday is growing in popularity, what can be done to keep the campers coming? Thankfully, the campsite owner has an idea and it's now up to the staff to make it a success.
The idea for this comedy drama, which is deemed suitable for ages 16+, came literary out of the blue - 35,000 feet off the ground! "We were returning home from Florida in 2017 and I grabbed a few serviettes and scribbled various notes about possible characters, their mannerisms and a potential story line to help me through the flight! These notes then sat in my panto box until 2024, when I finally started work on a draft script in earnest." said Wayne, who originally hoped to bring the show to the stage in 2025, but ended up postponing it until 2026, as he wasn't happy about
one section of the script. Wayne was a huge fan of the 1980s BBC sit-com Hi-de-Hi and in 2016 met Jeffrey Holland, who played the comedian Spike Dickson in the hit TV series. "I told Jeffrey that I was hoping to write a script about a Suffolk holiday camp and he wholeheartedly encouraged me to do it - so I did!" said Wayne.
Wayne has spent most of 2025 buying up authentic props for the production and will shortly start making a custom-built set for the play - on top of working on Team B Productions next family Pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, which appears at the Leiston Film Theatre in January 2027. "Mourning Campers is something very different for us and requires a different discipline from those performing on stage. It's a very exciting exercise for us and there is already a lot of interest in this particular production." said Wayne. Mourning Campers appears live at the Leiston Film Theatre on Friday 25th, Saturday and Sunday 27th September 2026. Tickets are currently discounted for a limited time and available from the venue box office on 01728 830549 and via the Leiston Film Theatre website at: leistonfilmtheatre.co.uk
& District
A journey through the stars at The Cut
On April 21st at 2pm at The Cut, Halesworth & District U3A welcomes Chris Mead who will be presenting his talk entitled 'The Science of Astrophotography'. Chris has always been fascinated by astronomy and cosmology. Now retired, he can devote much more of his time learning astrophotography techniques. For example, he's developed an interest in deep sky astrophotography and uses specialist telescopes to help capture images from his back garden in Wrentham, when cloud cover permits! He enjoys the problem solving
aspects of astrophotography, combining, as it does, computer automation and image processing techniques and will talk us through how he captures his stunning images such as the Bubble Nebulae photo above. This is a wonderful opportunity to discover firsthand how it's possible to create spectacular snapshots of the stars above. The talk is free to current Halesworth and District U3A members and for nonmembers, tickets are available at £4 in advance, or on the door at The Cut. Why not come along early and enjoy a delicious lunch in The Cut Café?
Bubble Nebulae
Halesworth
of National Trust holidays.
Plus, a special National Trust membership offer (live from March 21st) will give new members the opportunity to enjoy the Easter trails for free!
Between March 21st and April 19th (inclusive), any new Family, Junior, Young Persons, Individual or Joint membership purchased at a National Trust property or online and paid for with annual Direct Debit, can receive a free Easter trails voucher. This voucher entitles all children under 18, to free 'Easter adventures' trails an unlimited number of times at participating National Trust properties.
To find your nearest trail visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/easter
Sutton Hoo
• Easter Egg Trail: March 21st to April 12th, 10am-4pm, £3.50 per trail.
• Gruesome Graves Tour: March 21st & 22nd, 1pm-2pm, Free with admission.
• Finds Friday Object Handling: April 10th, 10:45am-1:15pm, Free with admission.
Travel back in time this Easter with a family trip to Sutton Hoo.
Pick up an Easter trail when you get here, put on your bunny ears and explore our 10-point trail.
Challenge friends and family to an egg and spoon race, test your wingspan and hop like a hare, rabbit, lamb or fox as you discover more about the fascinating nature that lives at Sutton Hoo! Once you've completed the trail, head back to Visitor Welcome for a dairy or vegan or Free From chocolate egg.
While you're here, go for a walk to enjoy peaceful spring views from around the estate, then climb to the top of the viewing tower for a bird's eye view of the Royal Burial Ground, the final resting place of an important Anglo-Saxon king. Head indoors to dress up like a warrior or a king and find out what it's really like to be an archaeologist on the eve of a discovery, before heading to the adventure playground to blow off some steam. Both cafés will be open every day throughout the school holidays, as well as our gift shop and second-hand bookshop.
Normal admission applies, free for National Trust members. nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo
Image credit: National Trust Images, Annapurna Mellor
Fun for all the family this Easter!
MARCH 28TH - APRIL 19TH
Easter Quest
Framlingham Castle
10am-5pm. Join us for a funfilled adventure quest! Follow the Easter trail, hunt for eggs & answer questions along the way to earn a delicious chocolate reward!
Running every day throughout school holidays, £2 per child for both members & non-members (in addition to admission ticket). Aged 17 & under.
MARCH 31ST - APRIL 2ND Easter Holiday Activity Days!
The Market Hall, Saxmundham
9am-4pm. For ages 7-11. Our friendly team can't wait to welcome you for 3 days full of creativity, fresh air, & Easter fun! Activities begin at The Market Hall, Saxmundham, with activities & play time in Art Station Garden, 24 High St, Saxmundham. You can book the full day or choose am/pm sessions - whatever's best for your family. £38 per session.
APRIL 1ST
'Books, Banter & Biscuits' Book Group Saxmundham Library
2pm-4pm. Discover the joy of reading with other like-minded, enthusiastic readers & book addicts. Lively discussions for the mind. £1pp incl refreshments.
APRIL 2ND
Maundy Thursday:
Tenebrae & Britten Sinfonia Snape Maltings Concert Hall
7:30pm. A powerful & reflective programme for Passiontide pairing Renaissance masterpieces by Allegri & Victoria with more contemporary works by Edmund Finnis, Barber & James MacMillan.
APRIL 2ND
It's Never Over, Jeff Buckley (15) Aldeburgh Cinema
7:30pm. Oscar-nominated director Amy Berg explores the ethereal life & tragic death of a 90s icon. This definitive documentary uses unseen archival footage & intimate interviews with Buckley's inner circle to illuminate the man behind the masterpiece 'Grace'. A moving tribute to a voice that defined a generation. From £7.50pp.
APRIL 3RD
Paddington Trio II
Orford Church, IP12 2LN 12pm. Join the Paddington Trio & guests for the finalé of the Friday Lunchtime Concert series with Shostakovich's majestic Piano Quintet.
APRIL 4TH Easter Shopping Day Snape Maltings
10am-5:30pm.
APRIL 5TH
Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Saxmundham Sports Ground, Carlton Park 3pm. A local tradition since 1992! Kids hunt for cardboard eggs hidden around the playground to trade for real chocolate treats! Free (Donations gratefully accepted via bucket). In aid of Saxmundham Adventure Playground. Please note: Playground will be closed from 2:30pm-3pm for egg hiding. The event goes ahead rain, shine, or snow!
APRIL 5TH Shadow & Lace
The Engineers Arms, Leiston
APRIL 6TH Bassett & Fraser LIVE
The Long Shop Museum, Leiston 2pm-4pm. Acoustic duo.
APRIL 7TH
Social Shakespeare Group
Saxmundham Library
10:30am-12pm. Play reading, engaging discussions, writing tutorials, laughs & more. Tea & biscuits provided! £1pp suggested donation.
APRIL 7TH
Knit & Natter
Saxmundham Library
2:30pm-4:30pm. Friendly, welcoming group. Suitable for all abilities, bring your art/craft projects. £1pp.
APRIL 7TH
Family History Drop In
Saxmundham Library
2:30pm-4:30pm. Our experienced volunteer can help you trace your family, learn how to search & take DNA tests.
APRIL 7TH
No Other Choice (15)
The Riverside, QuaySide, Woodbridge
7:30pm. Directed by the visionary Park Chan-wook, this darkly comic thriller follows a devoted family man who, after losing his
job of 25yrs, resorts to a "wicked" plan to eliminate his career rivals by any means necessary. Adapted from Donald E. Westlake's novel 'The Ax', the film blends sharp social satire with Park's signature visual style to explore the desperate lengths one will go to in order to survive in the modern world. From £7.50pp.
APRIL 8TH
Creative Writing Group
Saxmundham Library
1pm-3pm. Ever wanted to try writing? Come join our self-run, friendly creative writing group & start a biography, poetry, fiction or anything you'd like. Take turns leading the group with writing tasks & ideas. All abilities & genres welcome. £1pp.
APRIL 10TH
Aurora Light & Motion Open Rehearsal
Snape Maltings Concert Hall
2pm. An open rehearsal where Aurora will be uniting with the BBC Singers, Britten Pears Chamber Choir & pianist Nicholas McCarthy. Member event
APRIL 10TH
Aldeburgh Young Musicians
Britten Studio @ Snape Maltings, IP17 1SP
4pm. Open Session. Join our Aldeburgh Young Musicians in celebrating the culmination of their efforts from this year's April project. An eclectic mix of instrumentation, delivering new & intriguing works you won't find anywhere else.
APRIL 11TH
Hugo Max Scores The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog (PG)
Aldeburgh Cinema
6pm. Alfred Hitchcock's 'The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog' with a live score by musician Hugo Max. Adult £17pp.
APRIL 11TH
Ace Karaoke
The Engineers Arms, Leiston APRIL 12TH
Britten Pears Chamber Choir: Fauré & Handel
St Mary's Church, Bury St. Edmunds
4pm. Fauré's serene Requiem contrasts with Handel's uplifting Dixit Dominus. Britten Pears
Arts' resident choir is joined by soloists from the Britten Pears Young Artists Programme
APRIL 19TH
conducted by Ben VonbergClark & accompanied by organist Francesca Massey, to perform these choral classics.
APRIL 12TH
Ace Karaoke
The Engineers Arms, Leiston APRIL 14TH
'Gulls: More than just chip thieves' talk
United Reform Church, Leiston
7:30pm. Talk by David Staff for the SWT Alde Valley Group. £4pp entrance (cash please). Free raffle.
APRIL 16TH
NT: All My Sons (15) Aldeburgh Cinema
7pm. Arthur Miller's classic powerhouse, directed by the visionary Ivo van Hove. This "triumphantly acclaimed" West End production follows the Keller family as the dark secrets of their wartime success begin to unravel. This filmed-live performance is a searing, 5-star exploration of the American Dream & the cost of accountability. From £10pp.
APRIL 16TH
'The future of Barn Owls in Suffolk' talk
Woodbridge Community Hall
7:30pm start (doors 7pm). An illustrated talk by Sally Nelson & Dave Pearsons from Barn Owl Support Suffolk. £4pp adults, under 25's free. No need to book. Pay on the night cash/card. In aid of Suffolk Wildlife Trust. More info, email: swtwoodbridge@ outlook.com
APRIL 16TH - 19TH
INK Festival 2026
Halesworth
The UK's leading short play festival returns! INK Festival 2026 presents an exciting lineup of original plays, comedy, poetry, talks, & performances from acclaimed writers & artists. inkfestival.org
APRIL 17TH
The ELO Encounter Leiston Film Theatre
7:30pm. Roll over Beethoven, because the greatest tribute to Jeff Lynne's Electric Light Orchestra is here, in this brilliant live show feat. soaring strings, striking vocal harmonies & playing all the much loved songs from ELO's hit-filled library. The ELO Encounter tribute band promises a night filled with rock, roll & Blue Skies!
Steam Up!
Main Street, Leiston
10am-3pm. See steam engines in full steam, trade engines, local craft stalls, refreshments & more!
Come & see new 2026 exhibits for The Long Shop Museum. Adults £8pp, children (5-16) £3pp, under 5's free, concessions £6. Dogs welcome! For more info, call 01728 832189 or visit longshopmuseum.co.uk
APRIL 19TH
Così Fan Tutte - Mozart (12A) Leiston Film Theatre 6pm. Duration: 180 mins. Adults: £10.50pp.
APRIL 19TH
Folk at The Froize
The Froize Restaurant, Chillesford, Woodbridge 7:30pm (doors 6:30pm). Heidi Talbot & Toby Shaer. Tickets: Music £20pp. 2 course supper £20pp. Mains served from 6:30pm. Puddings served after the interval. froize.co.uk
APRIL 21ST
Knit & Natter
Saxmundham Library 2:30pm-4:30pm. Friendly, welcoming group. Suitable for all abilities, bring your art/craft projects. £1pp.
227738
APRIL 22ND
Creative Writing Group
Saxmundham Library
1pm-3pm. Ever wanted to try writing? Come join our self-run, friendly creative writing group & start a biography, poetry, fiction or anything you'd like. Take turns leading the group with writing tasks & ideas. All abilities & genres welcome. £1pp.
APRIL 23RD
'The Low Carb Approach' Chat & Support Group
Saxmundham Library 2pm-3pm. Free group for people with Type 2 Diabetes/PreDiabetes & anyone interested in low-carb eating. Provided by Dr. Chris Barclay & Saxmundham Health. No booking required.
APRIL 24TH
Alex Groves & The Carice Singers Britten Studio @ Snape Maltings, IP17 1SP 7pm-8pm. Experience a rare glimpse into the making of a major new choral work inspired by radical friendships, coastal landscapes & sculptural sound. Composer Alex Groves joins us for a week-long residency to develop a new piece commissioned by The Carice Singers. Join us for an intimate evening of music & conversation.
APRIL 24TH
Folk at The Froize The Froize Restaurant, Chillesford, Woodbridge 7:30pm (doors 6:30pm). The Shackleton Trio. Tickets: Music £20pp. 2 course supper £20pp. Mains served from 6:30pm. Puddings served after the interval. froize.co.uk
APRIL 26TH
Apollo's Fire: Fencing Match Snape Maltings Concert Hall 7pm. Hailed by Classical Music Magazine as "the USA's hottest baroque band", Apollo's Fire, led by Jeannette Sorrell, joins forces with members of the renowned English Baroque Soloists in this new programme of duelling double concertos.
APRIL 27TH
Orwell 2+2=5 (15) The Riverside, QuaySide, Woodbridge 7:45pm. This forceful cinematic essay translates the urgency of George Orwell's prose into a timely critique of power & propaganda. Through electric editing & striking archival juxtapositions, the film explores how Orwell's prescient observations on systemic violence & truth continue to echo through our fractured modern world. Adults: £10pp.
Constable: A Cast of Characters
As one of the most celebrated landscape artists ever to have put paintbrush to six-foot canvas, the legacy of John Constable (1776-1837) reaches far and wide, including his name now being synonymous with the surrounding Suffolk and Essex countryside.
But how did the son of a merchant rise to such heights of artistic fame and legacy?
As part of the 250-year celebrations of Constable's birth by Colchester + Ipswich Museums (CIMS), a new exhibition at Christchurch Mansion, in Ipswich (made possible by funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund) will reveal stories about the people who helped turn Suffolk into 'Constable Country'. Exhibition is open from March 28th to June 14th.
With over 100 works and objects, including portraits, sketches and landscapes by the artist himself and others, 'Constable: A Cast of Characters' will delve deep into the background characters of Constable's life; from family to early supporters recognising his talent, and the friends and patrons that sustained him during his long career.
at Christchurch Mansion Ipswich
known it. Through photographic re-enactments, objects, period fashion, costumes and uniforms (and evoking the space of the Constable family parlour complete with letters) visitors will be immersed in the period detail of the time.
Important items from Constable's life will also be on display, including his wife's wedding ring, an Onyx snuff box, a Royal Academy diploma, and his wooden paint box complete with pens, brushes, pigments, Royal Academy tickets and gemstones.
Although immediately drawn to landscape painting, Constable undertook commercial portrait commissions out of financial necessity at the start of his career, and these also demonstrate his working methods and personal networks that would continue to serve him later.
where the image would be later developed in oils.
Early book illustration for an Ipswich bookseller demonstrates how important the town was for him at the beginning of his career, including graveyard scenes to accompany a book of epitaphs.
A significant cultural figure in the region was Elizabeth Cobbold, who nurtured the arts scene in Ipswich, and she helped Constable with a network that would lead to his entry into the Royal Academy Schools. A portrait of Cobbold (currently by an unknown artist) is included. Life drawings of both male and female nudes from his time at the school demonstrate how he developed his drawing technique, which would later help him to quickly capture the fleeting light and shadow of East Anglian landscapes.
children, Lionel, completed shortly after their mother died from tuberculosis.
Family was important to Constable, even after the despair of losing his much-loved wife, Maria. Family keepsakes will give a glimpse into this personal aspect of his life - including embroidery by a then-unmarried Maria Bicknell, a sampler by his youngest daughter Emily, and a mammoth tusk discovered in Suffolk that he had collected to stir a fascination in his children for nature and science.
Continuing the family's creative legacy, new works by internationally acclaimed sculptor Sasha Constable (b.1970) (a direct descendant of the artist will also be displayed.
The very space for the exhibition will give people the chance to step into Regency Ipswich as Constable would have
Included are a group portrait of the Cooper Sisters from a local farming family around 1803-6, the seven-year old daughter of a Major General and patron (1808-10), supportive London neighbours Thomas and Emily Treslove (including a further alteration to make Mrs Treslove appear slimmer in 1826 which was only discovered recently), and an 1808 portrait of his cousin Jane Anne Mason from Government Art Collection). This picture will be shown for the first time with a graphite portrait that Constable made in a scrapbook, suggesting a preferred method of beginning with a gentle graphite sketch
And following commissions led to some rare subjects. Thanks to the East Anglian churches, religious pictures were pursued, including Study for 'Christ Blessing the Children' (1805) part of a major altarpiece for St. Michael's Church in Brantham and connected to the disapproving grandfather of his future wife, and St. John (date unknown) (an ink and wash work) allowing him to copy and learn from the Old Masters. A study for a mythological creature The Mermaid (1829) was intended to be a sign at a Warwickshire inn and undertaken out of personal loyalty to a patron.
Locations that held emotional resonance to Constable were also executed in detail - even if some were to remain private. His family home in East Bergholt was a scene he would return to and include on the front page of a series of prints, but some of the views including that of the garden and the familyowned mills in the background would be painted just for himself.
Work from several artists who influenced Constable will also be included. He held a deep admiration for the greatest landscape artist of his time, the fellow Suffolk-based Thomas Gainsborough (1727-1788), often travelling to Ipswich to see the locations he had painted firsthand. View near the Coast (about 1750-55), reminiscent of scenes along the Orwell, and Holywells Park (about 1748-50), situated just east of Ipswich town centre, will be on display.
based on the family archive. Combining technical precision with expressive form, the works will include a re-working of a Constable self-portrait in Portland stone, a response to The Cornfield investigating the health of Suffolk's rivers in present day, and a specially designed Family Tree.
Also included will be a portrait by her son Valya Constable which was selected for display at the Royal Academy in 2021.
Through the cast of characters that populated Constable Country - that helped his personal and professional life and ended up in the finished paintings themselves - this exhibition will offer a new and unique view of one of Britain's most enduring artists.
Emma Roodhouse, Art Collections & Learning Curator at Colchester + Ipswich Museums, said: "Marking this anniversary year, the exhibition opens up the wider world around Constable, his family, friends and supporters, revealing the social networks that shaped his artistic development, and connecting them with the contemporary through the work of Sasha Constable. We can't wait for visitors to discover unexpected moments and gain a richer, more expansive understanding of Constable's story and legacy."
Portraits of Constable's family will be on display, including his parents, an encouraging uncle, and younger brother Abram who took charge of the family business in support of his older brother's artistic ambitions. And sometimes it wasn't portraits that were important, for instance, consumed with grief after his mother died he chose to paint a view of her garden instead.
Ann Constable's Flower Garden (1815). There will also be tender drawings of his children, including one of his daughter Maria holding the youngest of Constable's seven
An early mentor to Constable was George Frost (1744/451821), with the pair regularly going out sketching on the banks of the Orwell, and Frost's The Common Quay, Ipswich (1820) shows one of these scenes, as well as Constable's own drawing of a steamship in the area. Two works by Constable's only studio assistant John Dunthorne Jr - a self-portrait and Cottage at Bramford (1817) - will show Constable's own influence on those around him.
And bringing family work to the fore will be a series of new sculptures by Sasha Constable
Councillor Carole Jones, Ipswich Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Planning and Museums, said: "Ipswich
is incredibly proud to host what will be an unrivalled display of Constable's work, bringing together masterpieces - including The Hay Wain - and rarely seen treasures in his home county for the very first time. Thanks to the remarkable partnerships behind Constable 250, visitors will experience a once in a lifetime gathering of world-class artworks that celebrates not only Constable's extraordinary influence and impact, but the people and places at the very heart of his story."
Constable 250 is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we will be able to explore Constable's art and legacy through 2026. Loans for Constable 250 are supported by the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund.
Golding Constable's Flower Garden, August 1815, Oil painting, 33cm x 50.8cm
A lime kiln with lime kiln cottages beyond the River Stour, between Dedham and Stratford St. Mary, c.1815-16. Oil painting, 11.3cm x 17.3cm
George Frost, 1216
View Constable 250 at Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich between March 28th and June 14th.
