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In this issue

Don't miss our brilliant 12 page pull-out guide on local places to visit.

Whatâ€™s On: Easter Holidays Plus... Do you know a young environmental hero? Nominate them for our special 'Just One Child' award. Issue 52: March / April 2020

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familiesonline.co.uk Families Suffolk: Issue 52 1

MySpira is the world's first augmented reality asthma training game, developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals. Suitable for children aged 6 -13, the MySpira app aims to improve the training of correct inhaler technique, using a combination of augmented reality and game play. Meet Spira! An asthmatic alien from the planet Bronchia who needs your help! Like some asthmatic humans, he too has problems inhaling his medicine, but with the MySpira app, you can learn correct inhaler technique to help manage asthma.

Supported by

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

familiesonline.co.uk

Hello... Welcome to the Spring issue of Families Suffolk Magazine. Explore more with your family this year using our brilliant 12 page pull-out guide on local Places to visit in 2020. From visiting libraries to riding on trains, hanging from trees to feeding farm animals, crafting, walking and exploring, our guide has it all. We are also proud to be working with local author Debbie Barlett, who has recently published 'Just One Child' a great book inspiring children to care for the planet. Together we have launched a competition to find a local environmental hero who may have inspired others to help the planet. See more on page 19. With the Easter Holidays just around the corner, take a look at our What' On guide on pages 4 and 5 for ideas and inspiration for days out and events for the whole family to enjoy.

In this Issue 4-5

What’s On - Editor’s Pick

Suffolk Fire & Rescue

7-18

Places to visit in 2020

Don't miss our brilliant 12 page pull-out supplement on places to visit with the family this year.

Remember you can also stay in touch with all the latest news and event information by following us on facebook. With Best Wishes

Stacey Phillips Editor

Fancy some free cake?

Just One Child

Education / Clubs & Classes

St Elizabeth Hospice

Family Law

We are looking to set up some focus groups to talk to our valued readers & find out what it is you enjoy about Families Suffolk Magazine & what think could be improved. To thank you for your input we will be providing free tea, coffee & cake! If you would like to get involved please email: editor@familiessuffolkmagazine.co.uk. Follow us: Facebook /FamiliesSuffolk | Twitter: @familiessuffolk

Contact us: Editor: stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk | 07951 946736 Advertising: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk | 07951 946736 Events & What’s On: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk Print: Printed in the uk by Warwick Printing.

growing closer

We’re Suffolk

through and through We’re interested in what our

members and the local community are doing and we’re happy to roll

up our sleeves to help them grow and prosper.

OUr next issue: May / June 2020 Main features: Family Health & wellbeing / Parties Circulation: 20,000 copies of Families Suffolk are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected retail outlets and various other distribution points throughout Suffolk. If you would like copies for your organisation please get in touch.

w w w.ibs.co.uk

0330 123 0723

Print Disclaimer: Families Suffolk Ltd is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Suffolk Ltd are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Suffolk Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Suffolk Ltd; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Families Suffolk: Issue 52

What’s On: March / April 2020

Hero Quest

Mums Date Night

Room on the broom

Mother’s Day special

Ipswich Cornhill Saturday 7th March Don your cape for a day of heroes in Ipswich town centre! Meet super heroes and villains. www.ipswichentertains.co.uk

Prado Lounge, Sudbury Wed 11th Mar & Wed 15th Apr This is a free monthly evening meet up, designed for all Mums (of all ages) to get together. www.mind-over-mum.com

Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds Thu 18th - Sun 22nd March Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in this fun-filled adaptation. www.theatreroyal.org

East Anglain Railway Museum Sunday 22nd March Treat Mum to a floristry workshop plus a lovely Sunday roast lunch in the sumptuous railway carriage. www.earm.co.uk

Circus Petite

Ipswich Comic Con

Woodland Adventure

Ipswich Corn Exchange Sunday 22nd March Bill Turnbull narrates the story of Peter & the Wolf. www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk

Bury St Edmunds: 26th-29th Mar Stowmarket: 2nd-5th Apr Sudbury: 15th 19th Apr Ipswich: 22nd-26th Apr A funny and very interactive circus. www.mrbeanentertainmentsco. uk/circus-petite

Trinity Park, Ipswich Sat 28th - Sun 29th Mar Don your power rings, grab your capes, get in your tardis, pick up your shields and join in the fun! www.capconhq.com

The Old School Wood, Great Waldingfield, Nr Sudbury Sunday 29th March Monthly fun for the whole family. www.facebook.com/Amy-AcornsForest-School-Outdoor-Activities

Lambing Day

Children's Month

Suffolk New College Sunday 29th March Lambing day offers the public a chance to experience the world of farming. www.suffolk.ac.uk

Suffolk Libraries Throughout April Promoting everything the library service has to offer. www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/ childrens-month

The Wizard of Oz Easter Panto The Ipswich Regent Friday 3rd April Join Dorothy & her pet dog Toto on this magical adventure. www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk

Easter Fun on the farm

Easter Egg Trail

The VelvetEEN Rabbit

Adventure QUEST

Easton Farm Park, Nr Woodbridge Fri 3rd - Sun 19th April Meet the animals, including the new baby lambs & then hunt for the giant Easter eggs! www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk

Alton Watersports Centre Fri 3rd - Mon 20th April Follow the clues to find some interesting nature facts & rewards! www.anglianwaterparks.co.uk/ whats-on

Museum of East Anglian Life Saturday 4th April Hosted by the Spinning Wheel Theatre, this beautiful production is suitable for children aged 3+ www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

Framlingham Castle Sat 4th - Sun 19th April Crack the clues to join the hunt for dragon eggs on a legendary quest. www.english-heritage.org.uk/ framlingham

Suffolk Philharmonic Orchestra’s Mothers’ Day Family Concert

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

Easter Trail Landguard Fort, Felixstowe Fri 3rd - Sun 19th April Join in the Easter fun, with the quiz trail around Landguard Fort. www.landguard.com

familiesonline.co.uk

Our editors pick of the best family days out, Shows, and events.

Easter Egg Hunt & Pony Rides Glass & Craft, Nr Hadleigh 6th | 9th | 14th | 17th April www.shop.suffolkponyparties. co.uk/product-category/ upcoming-events

Days out with thomas East Anglian Railway Museum, Chappel, Nr Colchester Fri 10th - Mon 13th April Take a train ride behind Thomas & his friends, Daisy Percy & Toad.

www.earm.co.uk

The Elves & The shoemaker

Easter Eggstravaganza

Easter Egg Hunt

Easter Fun Day

Foxburrow Farm, Woodbridge Tuesday 7th April Easter egg hunt, spring crafts and trails. www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org

Nowton Park, Bury St Edmunds Wednesday 8th April Follow the trail left behind by the Easter Bunny to the maze. www.facebook.com/pg/ NowtonPark

Ipswich Cornhill Thursday 9th April Hop your way to the Cornhill this April for a FREE fun day! With lots of cracking activities. www.ipswichentertains.co.uk

Cadbury's Easter Egg Hunt

London Science Museum at Colchester Castle

Melford Hall, Long Melford Fri 10th - Mon 13th April Follow the clues to find your Cadbury chocolate egg prize. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ melford-hall

Colchester Museums Fri 10th - Mon 13th April Discover something new in Colchester this Easter. www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk

Easter Speggtacular Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm Fri 10th - Mon 13th April Enjoy fun at the farm with a special Easter twist. Donâ€™t miss seeing the new baby lambs. www.baylham-house-farm.co.uk

Easter Disco

Audio Easter Egg Hunt

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich Sat 11th - Sun 12th April The hilarious re-telling of the much-loved classic tale. www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Delphi Centre, Sudbury Saturday 11th April Great event with fun for all the family and a free egg for every child. www.delphicentre.co.uk

The Red House, Aldeburgh Sat 11th - Sun 12th April Explore five acres of beautiful gardens as you listen out for the sounds of different instruments. www.brittenpears.org

The Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe Wednesday 15th April The big top family panto. www.thelittleboxoffice.com/ spapavilion

Wildlife Day

Baby & Toddler Show

Christchurch Park, Ipswich Wednesday 15th April Join Ipswich Wildlife Group, to hear all about wildlife in the park. www.facebook.com/pg/ IpswichWildlifeGroup

Trinity Park, Ipswich Sunday 19th April For all things bump, baby & toddler. Enjoy free talks and demonstrations, plus lots more. www.themarketformums.co.uk

East Anglian Game & Country Fair

Easter Holidays at Ipswich Museums

Euston Estate, Thetford Sat 25th - Sun 26th April There is something for all the family to enjoy including your dog! www.ukgamefair.co.uk

Ipswich Museum and Christchurch Mansion See Page 23 for more information. www.ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Goldilocks & The Three Bears

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

On-call firefighters are a vital part of the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service. They provide an efficient, effective service that gives emergency cover across the country. In Suffolk, on-call firefighters make up 66% of the workforce and are generally located in rural communities, small towns and villages. SUFFOLK FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE

Suffolk Fire Service are looking for new recruits to become on-call firefighters n Are you 18 or older? n Do you have a reasonable level of personal fitness? n Do you live or work within five to eight minutes of a fire station in Suffolk?

What are on-call firefighters? An on-call/part time firefighter is a person who is ‘on call’ to respond to a range of emergencies. They are doing everyday jobs (for example, shop workers, office workers, mechanics, etc) until the call comes, then they become professional firefighters. On-call firefighters do not just fight fires. On-call firefighters live or work within five to ten minutes of their allocated fire station. They are fully trained firefighters who are called into service when they are needed rather than staffing the fire stations on a full time basis.

n Can you be released from your main employment to attend emergency incidents? n Can you operate at heights and in confined spaces? n Are you calm under pressure?

Most on-call firefighters have other employment and take on the role as a second job; however, you do not need to be in work to become an on-call firefighter.

Now recruiting in... • Aldeburgh • Brandon • Bungay • Clare

If you answer yes to these questions it could be you they are looking for.

• Debenham • Elmswell • Eye • Felixstowe • Hadleigh • Halesworth • Haverhill • Holbrook • Ixworth • Leiston

For more information

• Long Melford • Nayland SUFFOLK FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE

Vist: Oncallfire.uk Become a Suffolk on-call firefighter visit: www.suffolk.gov.uk/oncall SUFFOLK FIRE AND

• Needham Market • Orford • Reydon / Southwold • Saxmumndham • Stowmarket • Stradbroke • Sudbury • Wickhambrook • Wrentham

RESCUE SERVICE

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

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Explore more with the family this year using our 12 page pull-out guide. From visiting libraries to riding on trains, hanging from trees to feeding farm animals, crafting, walking and exploring, the Families Suffolk Magazine guide on local places to visit has it all... Use our 'Places to Visit in 2020' map to plan your visits, and then once you have been you can add your own family review and make notes for future visits.

Anglian Indoor Karting 12 Farthing Road, Ipswich IP1 5AP www.angliakarting.com | 01473 240087 If you’re looking for an activity that’s suitable for all the family from ages 5 through to Grandparents, Anglia Indoor Karting is a fantastic option. With Kubz karting for ages 5-7 and family karting sessions for ages 8+ it’s a great venue to enjoy time together and create some fantastic memories.

*Kubz karting for ages 5-7 *Arrive & Drive for Children aged 8+ *Kids Activity Days

We are open 7 days a week from 9am to 10pm Give us a call to discuss your requirements and book! Email: sales@angliakarting.com Tel:01473 240087 www.angliakarting.com Unit 12, Farthing Road Industrial Estate, Ipswich, Suffolk. IP1 5AP

No experience is necessary and all safety equipment is provided and with easy access from the A14 it’s an ideal location to meet family and friends. Refreshments and snacks are available from the onsite café and there is a viewing area for those not driving.

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Families Suffolk: Issue 52

East Anglian Railway Museum Chappel Station, Colchester, Essex CO6 2DS www.earm.co.uk | 01206 242524

East Anglian Railway Museum located at Chappel station on the Sudbury to Marks Tey line have a number of family friendly event days throughout the year when they operate a variety of classic steam locomotives and vintage diesels, so you can experience the sights, smells and the noise of an authentic steam railway in a period setting. Day out with Thomas is a fantastic event the whole family can enjoy at the East Anglian Railway Museum. Take a real steam train ride behind Thomas and his friends, Daisy, Percy and Toad will all be there plus many more Thomas activities, entertainment, classic Thomas stories and fun to enjoy! The first of this years Day Out With Thomas events will take place over the Easter weekend, from 10th - 13th April between 10am - 4.30pm. Save money on tickets by purchasing them online in advance.

Go Ape High Lodge Forest Centre, Brandon IP27 0AF www.goape.co.uk/locations/thetford | 01603 895500

memaReo Ries waiting FIND YOURS AT

BOOK AT

HigH Lodge, THeTford ForesT goape.co.uk Participation and supervision ratios apply - please see our website.

The long, windy drive deep into the centre of the forest sets the scene for this Go Ape location. Tall trees and dense forest provide an ever-changing seasonal backdrop and if you visit in summer, the Rhododendrons are a striking sight. From tree-to-tree crossings, zip wires and all-terrain Segways, Go Ape at Thetford have all the adventure boxes ticked. Whether youâ€™re a thrill seeker or after quality family fun, Go Ape is sure to put a smile on your face, get the wind in your hair and make some memories that will last a lifetime. The Treetop Adventure course is designed with the younger family in mind. An unforgettable experience that will combine your familyâ€™s skills of balance, strength and quick footing to reach the end of this collection of crazy obstacles. Designed for those over a metre tall, there's no minimum age, although you may want to check out the course first if you are planning on taking someone younger than 4 years old on it.

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

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Easton Farm Park Easton, Woodbridge, IP13 0EQ www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk | 01728 746475

Easton Farm Park offers plenty of fabulous family fun in the lovely Suffolk countryside. There are lots of animals to meet and feed as well as two heated indoor playbarns and an outdoor adventure play area to explore. You can take a walk along the river Deben trail, and enjoy some delicious home cooked food. Spring is a really magical time on the farm with new shoots of growth around the farm and lots of new babies arriving almost daily. Kid goats, baby lambs, bunnies and piglets are already running around the farm and the first eggs will soon be laid as the weather begins to warm up. Daily activities on the farm include lamb feeding, hugging bunnies, pony rides, animal petting sessions and lots more. This year you can delve deeper into the woodland on an Explorer Day and build a den, search out mini-beasts or try your hand at pond dipping. Mums can also go free on Mothering Sunday as Easton Farm Park celebrate all the mums, both human and animal, and the incredible work they do. The Barn CafĂŠ has a delicious new menu, with lots of homemade daily specials and the Gift Shop has some fun, quirky new gifts on offer. If you love the countryside, why not consider staying on the farm? Easton Farm Park offers camping, glamping and holiday cottage accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. The holiday cottages are 4 star rated via Visit England, and the camping/glamping has a fantastic new shower block and family friendly facilities, including family bathroom (with a bath), washer dryers, fridge and freezer, cooked breakfasts, firepits and barbecues. With so much on offer Easton Farm Park is a great day out the whole family will enjoy. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

Crafty Coffee 1B Hamilton Rd, Felixstowe IP11 7AX www.facebook.com/CraftyCoffee | 01394 270224

Crafty Coffee is a specialist ceramics and decopatch café in Felixstowe, where you can have fun, create, glue and paint. They also sell a fantastic selection of freshly ground coffee and home baked cakes.

Paint your own pottery & decopatch café * Birthday Parties * Baby Handprints & Footprints * Gift Vouchers * 1b Hamilton Road, Felixstowe, IP11 7AZ 01394 270224 | www.facebook.com/CraftyCoffee

Staff at Crafty Coffee can help with painted ceramic baby handprints and footprints with space available for pushchairs, and baby changing facilities are also available. They also sell gift vouchers and gift experience vouchers which covers painting or decopatching an item in the shop, a drink and a lovely piece of cake, the perfect gift. During school holidays they open on a Monday too and offer longer hours during the day. Crafty Coffee also offer parties, and are able to cater for up to 40 people, of all ages, they don't just offer children's parties - Hen parties, baby showers and team building events can all be catered for.

Suffolk Libraries Various locations throughout Suffolk www.suffolklibraries.co.uk | 01473 351249

April is Children’s Month! Sign up for a children’s library card before the end of April for a chance to win an iPad! To find out what your library is doing this Easter, visit www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/childrens-month

Suffolk's Libraries are a fantastic place to visit with the family, and we really are spoilt for choice with over 40 libraries here in the county. It’s completely FREE and easy to sign up for a library card and it’s never too early to get one, so everyone in your family can have their own. There are no longer charges for overdue children’s books and there are family-friendly activities for children of all ages across the county throughout the year. You can sign up for a library card at your local library or on the Suffolk Libraries website. Throughout April they will be promoting everything the library service has to offer children and families, with plenty of events and activities during the Easter Holidays.

WiPin ad an

Anyone signing a child up for a library card before the end of April 2020 will be entered into a competition for a chance to win an iPad.

For more information about children’s month visit www.suffolklibraries.co.uk/childrens-month

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

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Suffolk Walking Festival www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk

Have you ever crafted in the wild, enjoyed baking

9TH TO 31ST MAY

over a campfire or foraged for a cream tea? If not, then this year’s Suffolk Walking Festival is for you! The 13th Suffolk Walking Festival launches on 9 May 2020 with over 120 guided walks and countryside events over 3 weeks across the county. This year also sees plenty of brand new events including “Castle on the Hill” celebrating Ed Sheeran’s favourite castle; a fun photography scavenger hunt in Orford; and a spooky day head hunting in Ipswich! The event finishes at the end of May half-term week with plenty of family-friendly activities.

Here are just a few events to whet your appetite... ‘Campfire Make and Bake’ at Thornham Walks brushes up your whittling skills before making damper bread over an open fire in the woods. ‘Family Wild Crafts’ at Brandon Country Park lets you get crafty in the woods as you collect natural materials such as willow, sticks, leaves and rushes to make, and then keep, your creations. And ‘The Nasty Normans’ at Clare Country Park is a fun take on the history of the Norman Conquests with an actor narrating the story as you’ve never heard before! Celebrated local professional photographer Gill Moon is running a very special event for children. ‘Photography Challenge Scavenger Hunt’ is a fun, family friendly, search around Orford on the Suffolk coast. All you’ll need is a camera (phones count!), and you’ll have 20 items to find and photograph, building up points to win a prize. A sell-out every year is ‘Walk n’ Water’, a short walk and boat trip along the River Stour in Sudbury with a free hot drink at the end.

THE SUFFOLK

WALKING

FESTIVAL 2020

RSPB Minsmere is one of the most special places in Suffolk, famous around the world for its wildlife, and with a very fun children’s play area. ‘Surprising Spring Wildlife’ shows off the site introducing you to some of its iconic species. Another icon of Suffolk is Orford Ness and ‘Walk with a Shepherd and a Sheepdog’ is a guided walk by Kite, the sheepdog who manages the ‘island’s’ very own herd of sheep. It’s a very fun walk and a joy watching Kite in action. Lavenham has many claims to fame including being the home to a very famous wizard boy. On ‘Woad, Weavers & Wizards’ see locations used for filming and end you tour with a scrumptious cream tea! If you like history and rivers, then enjoy a cruise out of Ipswich on ‘Ipswich Maritime Trail and Sail’, and sail down the River Orwell the historic ‘Thistle’, a 19th century Thames Barge once used to transport grain, now used to transport people up and down the river.

The festival kicks off at Clare Country Park on Saturday 9th May with 2 launch jaunts and refreshments, and then runs until Sunday 31st May. Tickets are on sale from early March. Check out the website www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk for more details and to sign up to regular newsletters.

OVER 120WALKS AND EVENTS www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk

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Families Suffolk: Issue 52

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

The Mermaid

The Market for Mums

Yarmouth Road, Ipswich, IP1 2EN www.mermaidpubipswich.co.uk | 01473 230278

Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, IP3 8UH www.themarketformums.co.uk | 07523 108900

From classic British carvery to legendary pub favourites, the food at The Mermaid is fresh, hot, and served daily. There’s something for all the family, whether you’re taking Nan and Grandad, fussy teenagers, or toddlers and little ones.

The Market for Mums is an independent events company, that specilaise in hosting events for local parents! Their fantastic markets combine 'nearly new' stalls along with a selection of local business stalls. They are a place where you can buy excellent quality, nearly new items for your little ones from other parents saving you up to 90% off retail prices! This year the markets will also be heading across the county border to Essex and as well as their regular sales at Trinity Park in Ipswich, they will also be hosting a nearly new sale at Charter Hall in Colchester on Sunday 15th March between 11am - 1pm.

Their daily carvery is famous, with a choice of three roast meats available, temptingly displayed alongside seasonal vegetables with a choice of mash or roast potatoes. As well at the carvery they offer an extensive menu of pub classics and modern dishes designed to keep the whole family happy. All of their ingredients are ethically sourced: like the Red Tractor farm-assured chicken and responsibly-caught cod and haddock. Behind the scenes, they are constantly checking and refining their ingredients to ensure everyone gets the best flavour, the best nutrition, and the most-socially-responsible meals possible. There is also a great garden and outdoor play park along with an indoor play area for toddlers. The Mermaid prides itself on being one of the most family-friendly pubs in Ipswich.

Kids eat for

They also organise The Market for Mums - Baby & Toddler Show! Taking place at Trinity Park on Sunday 19th April from 10am - 3pm. The Baby & Toddler show celebrates all things Bump, Baby & Beyond! With a fantastic line up of demonstrations, talks and competitions... An event like no other locally! Fantastic shopping and a place to find support and guidance along the journey of parenthood.

Sunday 19 April 2020

£1

at Trinity Park, Ipswich IP3 8UH

10am until 3pm Join us for all things bump, baby & toddler! Top brands and unique products, talks, expert advice, refreshments and soft play.

Book online for just £4 at www.suffolkbabyshow.co.uk

Monday - Friday 3-7pm

SPONSORED BY:

*Children can eat from the children’s menu for £1 with a full paying adult. A main meal would have to be purchased from the main menu in order to redeem the offer. Offer excludes sandwiches and jackets, light bites, 2 for 10 menu and £6 menu. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. We reserve the right to change, amend or remove this offer without prior notice. This promotion and these terms are covered by English law, and are subject to the jurisdiction of the English courts. Promoter: Marston’s Inns & Taverns (a trading name of Marston’s PLC), Marston’s House, Brewery Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4JT.

MSC0216A2KEF1

M3k13643_Marstons_Kids Eat For £1 POS_A2_MSC0216A2KEF1.indd 1

25/02/2016 17:37

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

familiesonline.co.uk

Glass & Craft

Museum of East Anglian Life

Kersey Mill, Nr Hadleigh, IP7 6DP www.glassandcraft.co.uk | 01473 517404

Crowe Street, Stowmarket, IP14 1DL www.eastanglianlife.org.uk | 01449 612229

Glass & Craft are a family run craft workshop centre based at Kersey Mill near Hadleigh, Suffolk. They offer a wide range of fun craft activities to suit all ages from children to adults in their large dedicated craft studios. Choose from crafts such as glass painting, ceramic painting, bear building, decopatch, wood painting, fabric fun, sand art, mosaics, foam clay and even slime making. Glass & Craft can cater for individuals, family groups, children’s craft parties, WI groups, hen parties, school groups and much more! They also often run craft evenings and other workshops.

2020 is an exciting year at the Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket. The farm area is open and they have a brand new programme of activities, including daily have-a-go farming! With lots to do for families throughout the holidays, make sure the museum is one of your 2020 destinations.

Suffolk Pony Parties & Events also use Glass & Craft at Kersey Mill as a base to run some amazing pony workshop throughout the year. These include pony Easter egg hunts and unicorn rides. As well as an onsite café, Glass & Craft have a selection of food, snacks and drinks to enjoy while crafting. Booking is not essential; however, it would be advisable during school holidays and weekends.

The museum site has over 75 acres to explore, 17 historic buildings and a nature trail, there’s so much to see and do, you’re guaranteed to keep the little ones entertained. Pay once and your ticket entitles you to re-entry for 12 months, so whether it’s spending an entire day running around exploring or just popping in to join in with an animal feeding session, you’ll make the most of your ticket. Upgrade to a Silver Membership and enjoy even more benefits at The Museum of East Anglian Life, including access to their weekly Toddler Time sessions, or free trails in the school holidays.

Pay once, visit for 12 months! With 17 beautiful buildings, 75 acres of stunning countryside and an animal area, families can make the most out of our 12 month re-entry ticket.

www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

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Families Suffolk: Issue 52

Museum in spotlight: Mid-Suffolk Light Railway The Mid-Suffolk Light Railway, a past winner of the Suffolk Museum of the Year Award, offers a fascinating picture of what life was like on and around a rural railway during the early part of the last century and never ceases to be a great day out for families and rail-fans alike.

How to get here: Brockford Station, Hall Ln, Wetheringsett, Stowmarket IP14 5PW

When you can visit: 10.30am - 5.00pm

Admission Prices: Adult £10.00, child (under 16) £5.00, concession £8.00, family (2+2) £25.00

t’s full steam ahead for the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway, affectionately known as “The Middy”, as it braces itself for its first big weekend of the 2020 season! Taking place at Suffolk’s only standard gauge preserved railway, is the Easter Steam-Up on Sunday April 12th and Monday 13th April.

Easter at The Mid-Suffolk Light Railway The Middy will offer families steam train rides in genuine Victorian 4-wheeled coaches, two locomotives in steam, Easter Bunny hunts, plus all the Middy facilities including the museum, souvenir shop, cafe, the Middy’s real ale bar, The Kitchener Arms, and visits to the Restoration Shed on both days. Families visiting the Lottery Funded Restoration Shed will also be able to take a look behind the scenes at the restorative progress of the railway’s own locomotive.

Extending the line Work is also continuing on extending the line to just over twice its current length to the new-build destination station, Aspall Halt. Once completed, the Middy will be able to further offer visitors vintage steam train rides of approximately 1 kilometre lasting about 10 minutes. If you would like to support this project or any other of the Middy’s ongoing projects, please visit www.mslr.org.uk.

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

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What’s on @ Suffolk Museums Spring 2020 Ghost Stories Wed 25th March | 8pm 10pm Great War Huts www.greatwarhuts.org

Steam Up Sun 29th March | 10am - 4pm The Long Shop www.longshopmuseum. co.uk

Family easter fun Fri 3rd – Sun 19th April 1.30pm – 5pm The Red House www.brittenpears.org

easter egg hunt & newborn lambs Fri 3rd – Mon 20th April 10am – 4pm Museum of East Anglian www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

WOMEN ON THE FRONTLINE

Help Support Suffolk Museums When was the last time you donated to a museum? If the answer to that question is either ‘never’ or ‘I don’t know’, here’s why you should give it a go: museums are an incredibly worthy cause to donate to, beyond the huge cultural and social impact that museums have on their communities~ contributing to the sense of place of communities, enriching the lives of the inhabitants and supporting the vulnerable: museums also create jobs, contribute taxes and increase tourism. The adoption of mixed economy business models has helped ensure the continued survival of museums, but the futures of some museums are far from secure. Many museums are involved in ambitious projects to further develop their sites and as a result, are often in real need of outside investment. So, if you fancy giving a helping hand to a museum in need, why not pay a visit to your local museum or visit www.suffolkmuseums.org to find more about the museums in the county.

Sun 5th April | 11am - 4pm Find the spitfires / ‘Women on the Frontline – their untold stories’ Bawdsey Radar www.bawdseyradar.org.uk

Dinger’s Day Sun 5th April | 11am - 4pm Lowestoft Museum www.lowestoftmuseum.org

Royal Family Fun Mon 6th April | 10am - 4pm Palace House www.palacehousenew market.co.uk

Easter Treasure Hunt Mon 6th – Tue 7th April 1pm – 4pm Lowestoft Museum www.lowestoftmuseum.org

Easter Craft Morning Wed 8th April | 10am-12pm Woodbridge Tide Mill www.woodbridgetidemill. org.uk

Easter Egg Trail Sat 11th Apr | 11am - 4pm Ipswich Transport Museum www.ipswichtransport museum.co.uk Audio East Egg Hunt Sat 11th – Sun 12th April 2pm – 4pm The Red House www.brittenpears.org A Walk with Snooks Sat 11th - Sun 12th April 1pm – 4pm Aldeburgh Museum www.aldeburghmuseum. org.uk Experience the Weapon Dance Sat 11th – Mon 13th April 11am – 4pm West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village www.weststow.org Ambulance Egg Hunt Sun 12th Apr | 10am - 4pm East Anglian Air Norfolk and Suffolk Aviation Museum www.aviationmuseum.net Easter Event Sun 12th – Mon 13th April 11am – 4pm Bawdsey Radar www.bawdseyradar.org.uk Easter Monday Funday Mon 13th April | 11am - 2pm Woodbridge Tide Mill www.woodbridgetidemill. org.uk The Great Felixstowe Museum Easter Egg Hunt Sat 18th Apr | 1pm - 4pm Felixstowe Museum www.visitfelixstowe.org.uk The Long Shop American Car Show Sun 19th April | 10am - 4pm The Long Shop Museum www.longshopmuseum.co.uk

www.suffolkmuseums.org/events

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Families Suffolk: Issue 52

Congo Rapids Adventure Golf Children’s Parties

CELEBRATING

Treat your little monkeys to a birthday party they’ll remember! What better way for your little monkeys to enjoy their birthday than a party at Congo Rapids Lost World.

from just £12.50 per child

YEARS 1992-2

t. 01394 383555 ext. 300 e. events@uffordpark.co.uk w. www.uffordpark.co.uk

Yarmouth Road | Melton | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW 18

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

familiesonline.co.uk

Just One Child Inspiring Children to care for the Pl anet

he massive media interest in environmental issues has grown in recent years. Many have been inspired to get involved whilst others have felt overwhelmed by the scale of the problems. Debbie Bartlett who runs a community group ‘Litter-Free Felixstowe’ has recently written a book for children to encourage them to take positive action, however small. Debbie explains her motivation:

I was concerned that we were only attracting a handful of children to our litter-picks and beach cleans. Speaking with some parents, I was horrified to hear that there was a view that there was ‘no point’ getting involved because people felt they couldn’t make a difference. I was worried about the impact of this message on very young children.

It seemed to me to make sense that the ships would have seen all the marine rubbish in the oceans and streams’. I felt children would be able to connect with the message, if it came from inanimate objects – I didn’t want to preach or to show pictures of wildlife entangled in plastic. ‘Just One Child’ has some wonderful images by young illustrator Rachel Wallis, who has included some clear Felixstowe landmarks in her pictures. The result is a positive book which appeals to young children and encourages them all to take some action, however small. Collectively, we can make a difference.

Just one child is the outcome of Debbie’s concerns. First published in January this year, it is the tale of a young boy who talks to ships about the plastic waste found in our seas and rivers. The inspiration came from Debbie’s town of Felixstowe, home to the UK’s largest port. She explains: familiesonline.co.uk

WIN

Competition Debbie has now teamed up with Families Suffolk Magazine to launch a competition to find a local environmental hero who may have inspired others to help the planet. A special ‘Just one child’ trophy has been created and will be awarded to the winner along with 7 signed copies of the book, 1 for the child to keep and 6 additional copies for their school, Debbie will also visit the school and give a class talk about her book.

The competition is open to children aged 3 - 11yrs. To enter, simply tell us in 200-500 words how you or a child you know has encouraged others to care for the environment. You can email your entry to: editor@familiessuffolkmagazine.co.uk by Thursday 30th April 2020. The winner will be notified in May '20, and will be featured in our Sept / Oct issue. If you would like a copy of the book, please contact Debbie Bartlett via the Facebook page ‘Just One Child’ to request a copy (£6.99 each inc. p&p). Families Suffolk: Issue 52

Education: Alpha Guardians

Alpha Guardians bring international students into the UK to study for their GCSE’s & A-Levels in local state & independent schools. They are looking for more hosts who can provide a safe & secure environment and they welcome applications from people of different ages, backgrounds & family situations.

Welcome an International Student into your home

This is a what a local family have said about being a host family with Alpha Guardians:

“We have been hosting international students for about five years now. During that time, we have welcomed about 20 students into our home. Every one of them has bravely left family and friends to come to a new country to improve their English.

Full support and training

Students attend local schools

Host short or long term

Extra income

Find out how you can be a host family with Alpha Guardians!

It’s been a privilege to get to know these young people, to support and enjoy them as they settle into school and make friends here, in the UK. We have shared meals together, played board games, watched films and been on many outings. It has been a lot of

T: 01473 559015 E: hello@alphaguardians.co.uk W: alphaguardians.co.uk

fun and we have made some very special friends.”

Clubs & classes: Everyone Active

EVERYONE ACTIVE

SWIMMING LESSONS Spaces always available Lessons from 4 months old through to adult courses Available up to seven days a week All teachers are Swim England or equivalent qualified

LOVES TO LEARN A LIFE SKILL Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre... 01449 674980 Stradbroke Swimming Pool & Fitness Centre ...................01379 384376 everyoneactive.com

facebook.com/everyoneactive

Everyone Active Manages these facilities in partnership with Mid Suffolk District Council.

@everyoneactive

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

@everyoneactive

familiesonline.co.uk

Support your local hospice and help make a difference. By St Elizabeth Hospice

We have some exciting ways for schools, groups and families to get involved! Last year St Elizabeth Hospice provided help and support to over 3,000 patients and their families in the hospice and in the community. Find out how you can help support our work.

At School... Our Schools Accumulator challenge is back for 2020 and we are looking for schools to get involved. How will your school class turn £30 into more money for the hospice? The challenge is completely flexible – it can be pitched at any level and as many teams or year groups can compete All we ask is that we get at least our original £30 back at the end – and that they all have fun taking part whilst learning new skills! Why not find out more about becoming a School Charity Partner, we’ll provide you with fundraising opportunities and ideas throughout the year. You can choose to adopt these ideas, or create your own. We know how innovative and creative young minds are so there really is no limit. We can come and talk to the students and explain about our work, in an age-appropriate way, and showcase examples from other schools to get them excited.

How much money can your school accumulate? The Schools Accumulator Challenge is back again in 2020!

School’ Accumulas tor Challenge

What can you turn £30 into? Suitable across all year groups and ages; pitch it at the level you wish to. Find your next Alan Sugar or Deborah Meaden, and watch your pupils build their empire – whilst developing budgeting, procurement and sales skills and building confidence. Encourage the understanding of money, build mathematical skills and encourage imaginative and entrepreneurial thinking. Pitch year groups, classes or houses to compete against each other.

stelizabethhospice.org.uk/schoolsaccumulator

Staff and pupils at Waldringfield Primary School.

HOME

for tea

For groups and families... Why not take part in one of our forthcoming events, challenges or activities such as our Midnight Walk, Bubble Rush or Home for Tea? It’s a great way to get together, whilst helping your local charity.

To find out more...

Supporting the hospice is a piece of cake Show your support for St Elizabeth Hospice by hosting a coffee morning! Getting involved is easy, and every penny raised will help local people living with a terminal illness. Download your free home for tea pack at:

stelizabethhospice.org.uk/homefortea 01473 723600 | fundraising@stelizabethhospice.org.uk

If you’re interested in taking part in any of these activities, contact our fundraising team at: fundraising@stelizabethhospice.org.uk or visit our website: www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk or call us on 01473 723600 familiesonline.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

COLLABORATIVE FAMILY PRACTICE Collaborative family law is a constructive way to divorce and resolve family disputes with dignity.

ollaborative divorce has been described as “the way your divorce lawyer would do their own divorce.” Collaborative divorce ensures you can discuss things constructively. You are put back in control of the arrangements that need to be made. This is better than a Judge imposing his/her idea of what best suits your family. In collaborative practice we only use the court system to obtain a consent order which records your agreement. The discussions take place round the table with your former partner and each of you has a collaborative trained family lawyer. With the help of your lawyers, all together in the same room, you work it out, face to face. You will work with your family lawyers to reach the best solutions for you and your family.

Fixed price divorce offer

£525 +VAT and Court Fee Interview with a specialist family lawyer Taking initial instructions to final dissolution or decree absolute All document preparation Correspondence with you, the Court and other party/Solicitors Assistance applying for help with Court fees (Terms and Conditions apply)

Additional services provided outside the fixed fee: Disputes relating to children Financial/property matters Domestic abuse/violence Representation at Court hearings

The collaborative approach is fundamentally changing the way people think about family law. For couples who genuinely seek a fair solution, and want to minimise the pain of relationship breakdown, it may offer the best way ahead. Collaborative family lawyers are committed to helping you find the best solutions by agreement, rather than through conflict.

The following are some of the Reasons why the process is so successful:

You will still benefit from having your own independent legal advisor. But you are in control, without the threat of court proceedings hanging over you.

You and your former partner set the agenda for discussion, so you talk about the things that matter most to you and your family.

3. 4.

You set the pace – because you are not governed by court dates and court hearings. You maintain contact with your former partner. That way, you have the best chance of understanding each other, and finding the right solutions.

Remember, if children are involved, you will both remain parents, and it will help your children to cope better with your separation if they see that you are working things out together.

Most importantly, the key decisions you make about your future are yours – they are not made for you by a Judge in a courtroom.

Meet the Experts... John Simpson is a collaborative family lawyer and a Resolution Accredited Specialist in Children Law and Complex Financial Remedies; he can advise on all aspects of separation, divorce, finances and children’s issues.

For further information and appointments, please contact

Hannah Beck: hlb@blockslegal.co.uk 01473 230033 www.blockslegal.co.uk 2-6 Arcade Street, Ipswich, IP1 1EL

01473 230033 | hlb@blockslegal.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

familiesonline.co.uk

FROM THE AWARD-WINNING PRODUCERS OF GANGSTA GRANNY!

“What a magnificent show! It couldn’t be better!” David Walliams

G IG B H IT W SHOW LAUGHS BELLY SWEET AND A T!’ HEATIRMES ‘A ROLLICKIN

THE

THU 21 – SUN 24 MAY Box Ofﬁce: 01473 433100 www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 52

Book your tickets for the show from www.ipswichtheatres.co.uk or call 01473 433100

Cut out and colour-in your own mask to wear at the concert during Peter & The Wolf! Share your pictures on social media using #SPOMothersDay. Download more masks to colour-in from www.suffolkphil.org 24

Suffolk Philharmonic Orchestra is a Registered Charity