Hadleigh Community News, May 2026

Hadleigh Show, Saturday 16 May at Holbecks Park

We hope the date is in your diaries

The show is ready to go, exhibitor entries are in and preparing to wow the crowds with their skills on horseback, with cattle, sheep, donkeys and heavy horses all booked and looking to be an incredible display of the traditional elements of the agricultural world. Tradestands are full to capacity with something for everyone on the showground, food, clothes, gardening, shopping, local businesses and much more all there for everyone. We have so much going on with the brilliant Kangaroo Kid back on the show circuit for the first time in 20 years on hand to wow us, our brilliant machinery display, vintage machinery, gun dogs, the Sheep Show, our all new Spectacular stage featuring music and drama and much more in the rings to entertain you. What else is there? Our big news for 2026 is that we are delighted we have been given a flypast from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. This will be subject to weather and timings but the RAF Battle of Britain team will be coming over the show with a Spitfire, Hawker Hurricane and C-47 Dakota so look to the skies! We will also have: Gardening Theatre – sessions all day from Gardening

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HADLEIGH COMMUNITY NEWS

Hadleigh Community News is delivered to 5,000 homes and businesses in Hadleigh, Upper Layham and Lower Layham.

THE VILLAGE EDITION

Experts talking about all things outside, hedging, veg gardening, allotments – the whole kit and caboodle

BMX Stunt team – let’s see how stunts on BMXs can be done by the experts – we wouldn’t recommend trying it at home!

Children’s Trail – now available at the gates when you arrive, pick one up and find the stamps on the showground

Sheep Fancy Dress – have you ever seen a sheep dressed up? You will this year at Hadleigh Show – No trophies for this one, it’s that good we’ve got a Crown!

Around the showground we have Stocks Fair back with us again, open on the Friday evening and Sunday of the show weekend, rural crafts, floral marquee, horticulture tent, education tent, art show and lots more including shopping and eating.

Tickets are available online only or via our outlets. We have allocated a maximum number of tickets that can be sold so please make sure you BUY EARLY – either via local outlets or via our website www.hadleighshow.co.uk

Midnight walk for St Elizabeth Hospice

Many people know, or will have seen, Glenn Abbassi on her walks around Hadleigh. What they will not see is the Midnight Walk Glenn will undertake on the 16 May - Hadleigh Show date, to raise funds for St Elizabeth Hospice.

There is a Just Giving page - justgiving.com/ page/glenn-abbassi-5 and she will be truly grateful for any donations, all of which will be acknowledged. Cash, or cheques payable to St Elizabeth Hospice, equally acceptable and if in Hadleigh can be collected by contacting glenn.abbassi@ btinternet.com or mobile 07870 312409

Come and see us at the Hadleigh Show this May

May is always a highlight in the local calendar, and the Hadleigh Show is a great opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy everything the area has to offer. This year, we’re pleased to be part of it and would love for you to come and say hello. If you’re attending the show, do stop by our stand for a chat. Whether you have a quick question, want to find out more about our services, or simply put a face to the name, it’s a relaxed way to meet the team and learn how we can help.

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SUDBURY & LONG MELFORD COMMUNITY NEWS

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& LONG MELFORD Community News March 2026

Alongside the show, our regular legal pop-up clinics in Hadleigh continue each week, offering straightforward access to advice when you need it. With free 30-minute consultations available, the clinics are designed to give you the chance to talk things through and understand your options without pressure.

Sudbury & Long Melford Community News is delivered to 7200 homes during the first week of each month.

YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS...

We can help with a wide range of matters, including wills and estate planning, family issues, employment concerns, property matters and disputes. We also assist with retrieving deeds and important documents from previous law firms, helping you keep everything organised and accessible.

We warmly welcome all your contributions of articles, letters, sports reports, events and photographs, just email or send to the address below and it will appear in the next issue. Deadline for copy is the 18th of each and every month.

For advertising information, leaflet distribution or collaboration ideas, email us at comnews@keithavis.co.uk or telephone Matt Barber 07799 313838/01473 823366

www.hadleighcommunitynews.co.uk

Community News magazines are produced by Keith Avis Printers Ltd, 68 High Street, Hadleigh, Ipswich, Suffolk IP7 5EF 46

The aim is simple – to make legal advice easy to access, right here in the heart of Hadleigh. Whether you’re planning ahead, sorting out paperwork or dealing with something more immediate, a short conversation can often make things clearer.

Our clinics run every Tuesday and Friday. Tuesday mornings are by appointment, with the last slot at 12.30pm, followed by drop-in sessions from 1.00pm onwards. Friday clinics run between 10am and 4pm and are by appointment only.

We look forward to seeing many of you at the Hadleigh Show this May, and to continuing to be part of the community week in, week out.

To book a free 30-minute appointment or to find out more, please get in touch by emailing mail@bates-wells.co.uk or call 01473 219282

Hadleigh Community Choir

welcome Jason Frederick as their musical director

Hadleigh Community Choir are delighted to announce that Jason Frederick, a Hollywood composer of distinction, and multi-instrumentalist, known for his work in film and television has taken over from Simon Thompson as their Musical Director. Originally from Canada he moved to Hadleigh in 2019 and has been looking for an opportunity to involve himself in the Community. He joined the choir in January and has been working on arrangements of 1970s music for the Choir’s summer concert on 18 July. Given the turmoil in which the world finds itself, Jason wanted to produce a concert of Hope and Peace. Chairperson of the choir, Adele Taylor said, ‘we are extremely fortunate to have somebody as talented as Jason leading us. It’s like having our very own Gareth Malone’. About Jason: Jason developed a passion for film music at a young age influenced by classic horror films. After studying under renowned composers at the USC Thornton School of Music, Jason transitioned to composing for film and television, contributing to projects such as; 101 Dalmatians 2 and Patch’s London Adventure. He continues to create music for various media including television advertisements and documentary subjects. He has also performed live with his band The Cinematic Trio. Jason’s compositions have been featured in numerous television programs and films showcasing his versatility and talent. About the Choir: As a Community choir we welcome everyone. If you enjoy singing why not get in touch by email : contact-us@ hadleighcommunitychoir.org.uk or come and join us. We rehearse at 7.30pm on Thursday evenings in the United Reformed Church off the Market Place in Hadleigh.

Free Legal Advice in Hadleigh Library

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From linen dresses to handmade bags: Complete your summer look

We are still receiving new styles of summer stock daily. As many of our customers will be aware we like to buy in small quantities therefore we manage to keep stock changing frequently. I have just unpacked a lovely range of linen, cotton and viscose dresses, tops and wide leg trousers.

Our beautiful basket bags are back for another year in even more colours and patterns. These are all fairtrade and handmade by artisans in Madagascar. Featuring a drawstring closure for security and leather corners for protection.

Another new arrival for the summer is our gorgeous Alice Collins wave print dresses. These are made from 70% cotton and 30% linen in a shift shape, featuring mother of pearl buttons and of course… pockets! These dresses are available in 4 different colours and are perfect for wearing casually and formally. Alongside all of these lovely outfits we have a great range of accessories to complete the look. With lots of new sunglasses, bags, jewellery and shoes you can leave fully styled from head to toe.

We hope you are all enjoying the lighter nights and warmer weather, and hope to see you in store www.zoronline.com zoronline.sales@gmail.com

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Opening Day and a lot of happy bowlers are out on the green again at Hadleigh Bowling Club

So how do you make 75 people happy? Open the bowling green and make the sun shine. Actually a few bowlers felt it was a bit cold but to be fair, they hadn’t actually requested they wanted a summer day in April so we’ll have to adjust the temperature next year. Or maybe just wait till July. Roughly three-quarters of the playing members dusted off their grey and whites and had a good day after seven month’s layoff, though many carry on playing indoors through the winter. The internal competitions and the Suffolk leagues are getting underway and we’re hosting a number of county games n the next few months. Away from the green another Bingo evening, always popular, is already booked out and the ever inventive Melanie Joseph has organised a race night at the club in June, a first for us, which will inevitably be popular too. And finally we need to thank Keith Avis for always being so helpful and efficient every time we need material printed, and the Hadleigh Town Council who generously responded to our grant application with £500 which will help in our complete conversion to all-electric. Some of you will have come to our Open Days in April and if you missed them you can always arrange a convenient time to try out bowling by phoning Peter Miller on 07789 764941.

Hadleigh Bowling Club, Stone Street, Hadleigh, Suffolk, IP76DN www.hadleighbowlingclub.com email: hadbowls@gmail.com

HADLEIGH CRIME REVIEW

Hadleigh - March Crime Overview

18x Assaults, 1x Theft of motor vehicle, 1x Aggravated vehicle taking (domestic incident), 2x Thefts, 3x Public Order Offences, 1x Threat with weapon in private place, 1x Stalking harassment, 1x Controlling/Coercive behaviour, 3x Anti-social behaviour incidents, 13x Non-Crime Incidents.

This month I am going to write about some common scams, provide some advice and explain who to report them to. A scam is a person trying to trick someone out of money or something else of value. Scams are a type of fraud, so illegal and a crime. It can occur face to face, but the vast majority are now remote via phone call/text/email/social media and tactics used by criminals now can include voice cloning, which I will explain shortly.

A local police force, such as Suffolk Constabulary, would typically become involved in this type of fraud in circumstances where there is a vulnerable victim or there is a local suspect and/or the scam is in progress when police hear about it and we can prevent it or catch the criminal. If someone is at an address trying to scam someone, or someone is expected at an address imminently, then call 999. In circumstances where the suspect is local, someone is being blackmailed, or the victim vulnerable but the danger is over, then call 101 for police or make an online report via www.suffolk.police. uk. Even if contacting the local police, you will likely also need to report scams/fraud to ‘Report Fraud’ (previously called Action Fraud) via 0300 123 2040 or online here www.reportfraud.police. uk - as although Suffolk Police can take immediate actions to prevent a crime, catch a local suspect, or safeguard someone, it is ultimately for ‘Report Fraud’ to formally record the crime. ‘Report Fraud’ is the national reporting service for fraud and cyber-crime, they support England, Wales and Northern Ireland and they can also direct local police forces to do belated enquiries to investigate these types of crime after analysing their report.

Phishing scams are a common type of scam now, this will be a text, call, email, website or maybe even social media contact. They could for example be claiming they are police, the council, your bank, a parking company demanding money for a fine, or a relative that has lost their phone and need money in an emergency. Never click on any links, treat them with scepticism especially if they are in a hurry or requesting money, don’t reply.

CHRISTIAN AID CREAM TEA

Thursday 14th May between 2.30 and 4 pm in the URC garden (church if wet).

Please support this event which is being held during Christian Aid week.

• Enjoy tea or coffee with home-made scones with cream and jam (or cheese scones with pickle) in the garden. Gluten free scones will also be available.

• Watch a short inspiring film about how Christian Aid is partnering with a local charity in Kenya (in the church).

• Suggested minimum donation of £5 per person.

The United Reformed Church (URC) is in Market Place opposite the town hall and next to the Ansell Centre.

If visiting a website, find it online to make sure you visit the real one, don’t follow a link on an email even if it looks genuine. Make sure the website has the locked padlock symbol next to the address line indicating it is secure and your data is less likely to be intercepted. Get a second opinion from someone and aim to call the company or organisation back via a number you find (not a number they have provided) to double check the contact is legitimate. If you do end up answering a scam call, ensure the call has completely ended before dialling another number, as I am aware of some cases where the caller can keep the line open, giving the impression that you have hung up when you are actually still connected to them, allowing them to then pose as the organisation you are attempting to contact.

Ultimately, you need to be automatically suspicious of any contact, particularly if a request for something of value is involved, such as money, gift vouchers, jewellery, or gold. The scams are getting even more sophisticated now, with research sometimes being done before the contact, they could even pretend to be someone you know. Voice cloning is also a growing threat, if a scammer does enough research and has the tools, they could contact a person via phone, clone their voice when they talk, then contact a friend of that person and impersonate them during a voice call; for that reason it is best now not to even answer suspected scam calls, let them go to voice mail and assess from there.

Where to report phishing scams

General phishing scam attempts don’t need to be reported to ‘Report Fraud’ or the local police, but put the number ‘7726’ as a contact on your phone called “Scam” and a contact in your emails with the same name with the email report@phishing.gov.uk and do the following from now on…

* With suspicious phone calls and text messages, text the originating number to 7726 or forward the message to 7726, free of charge. This will alert your phone service provider about the number, and they will look to shut down the number and may block it for you as well.

* Send scam/phishing emails to report@phishing.gov.uk (forward the email). they will also look to take action to analyse the email and any links, investigate websites and work with companies to remove or block.

The more people that send off this information, the more websites, emails, phone lines will get tackled and it will help reduce the overall volume of scams.

Kind regards, PC 1293 Johnson – Community Police Officer. pt

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Life on the Edge

At this year’s Hadleigh Show HEAT will present ‘Life on the Edge’ an exhibition celebrating the remarkable wildlife and nature that thrives in the hedgerows, field margins and the overlooked corners of our countryside. These “edge” habitats often go unnoticed, yet they provide vital refuge and corridors for a wide variety of plants, insects, birds and mammals.

Life on the Edge

HEAT

The exhibition will feature a stunning display of photographs taken by local amateur photographers who have managed to capture the richness of biodiversity that can be found in the fields around our town. Each image gives a striking example of the extraordinary nature that can be found in our everyday landscapes if we take the time to observe it.

To complement the photographic exhibition, a simple wildlife hide will be created to overlook a small pond located on the boundary of the show ground. This viewing space will allow visitors to quietly observe the pond and surrounding habitat, offering the chance to spot birds, insects, amphibians and other wildlife in their natural environment.

The term ‘Life on the Edge’ also carries a warning. Many of the species that depend on the hedgerows and field margins are increasingly under threat, living on the very edge of survival. This exhibition is therefore a call to recognise, value and protect these vital spaces. It is hoped that the ‘Life on the Edge’ exhibition will inspire visitors to appreciate the biodiversity that exists in the margins of our landscape and encourage greater awareness of the importance of protecting and nurturing these valuable habitats. If you are interested in this or any other HEAT project and want to get involved then you can contact us at hadleigh. heat@hotmail.com HEAT

Sound Immersion: surrounded by a wave of positive sound.

Sunday May 31st 4.30pm – 6pm at The Ansell Centre, Market Place, Hadleigh. What exactly is a sound immersion experience?

A sound bath is a form of sound healing: the frequencies received have the potential to support your own self-healing process through their interaction with your energy field. It can be deeply relaxing whilst also bringing about profound unknotting of areas of tension and blockage.

Hadleigh Productions is proud to welcome Louise Carpenter to Hadleigh. If you have never been part of a sound immersion experience, we encourage you to try it. Good for the body, mind and soul, it is a unique opportunity to be surrounded by calming sounds, created by somebody with over 20 years of experience in sound immersion.

Using mostly self-crafted instruments such as singing bowls and tubular bells, as well as her voice, Louise weaves a stream of sound arising in the moment which is different every time.  This vibrational field resonates through all aspects of our being - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual, and can be deeply restorative and relaxing. It is an opportunity to step out of the day-to-day busyness, pause, re-centre and then move on feeling refreshed and calmer: so vital in today's world. Louise has been working with sound in a healing and creative capacity since 2002 and loves to bring its gifts to

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Please bring a mat, blanket, cushion for warmth and comfort lying down; or you are welcome to sit in a chair. Body temperature goes down as you relax so bring extra layers. There will be hot drinks

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On Saturday 4 April, 25 children and their families explored the Deanery Garden as the Layham Bug Club came to Hadleigh for a special Easter event. The children followed an Easter trail around the garden to learn about the Easter story, with stamps to collect and a chocolate prize at the end.

On the way, there were muddy puddles, a rather surprised muntjac deer and some very successful bug hunting. After all the running around, and a break for hot cross buns toasted al fresco, the children made Easter gardens, with crosses made of sticks, a stone to mark the opening of Jesus’s tomb and moss, grass, petals and flowers to make them look beautiful! Thank you to Father Jo and Marylou for having us in the garden and to all the volunteers who made the event such a success.

If you would like to come to a future Bug Club or learn more about what we do, contact Rev’d Dr Glenda Hall, (glendahall@ymail. com) or the Benefice Office (office@stmaryshadleigh.co.uk).

Hadleigh Healing Society

May time, blossom on the trees, birds singing and the promise of warmer weather to come. We all should be feeling uplifted but the world news brings home that there are people in other countries who are suffering greatly. Our thoughts go out to them and hope that things will resolve themselves with patience and understanding.

If you feel that things are affecting your everyday life and would like to talk to someone about this please come and talk to one of our qualified registered healers in the strictest confidence. We are there for you. Please telephone (answer machine) 01473 823282. We are holding one of our popular Clairvoyant Days on Saturday, 13 June between 10am - 3pm. There will be two mediums who can give a 20 minute private reading for £15. If you would like an appointment please book early to avoid disappointment. Please telephone giving your name and telephone number clearly and we will get back to you.

Brett Valley Lodge No. 9479

Meet and Dine at The Town Hall, Hadleigh Fourth Friday in September, November, January, March and May

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Revival-A2Arts

Hadleigh Freemasons are pleased to support ‘Pop Up Meals’

In support of the ‘Pop Up Meals at St Mary’s Church Hadleigh,’ the Very Revd Jo Delfgou accepts a donation of £500 from the Lodge of Virtue & Silence No. 332 and £500 from Brett Valley Lodge No. 9479. The presentation took place in Hadleigh Town Hall in December, at the annual Christmas meal and carol singing event held by the Lodge of Virtue & Silence.

Marylou Delfgou, Volunteer Coordinator for the Pop Ups, provided details of this community project, which is run under the auspices of St Mary’s Church Hadleigh PPC, a registered charity. It uses the St Mary’s church building free of charge. All the team involved in the Pop Up are volunteers from St Mary’s, other local churches, and from the wider community. They have made a conscious decision that none of the Pop Up activities is religious in any way, that the volunteers are not seeking to grow church membership or promote faith.

Losing my mother ten years ago was a painful pruning but just the prod I needed to find a new focus and turn my dream of becoming an artist into a reality. During this transitional time, I spent eighteen months at the Norfolk Painting School, exploring the versatility and possibilities of oil-paint, learning to let go both emotionally and artistically. After that, through the medium of flower, I began to find my flow and paint from the heart with conviction and freedom. This spring some of my most recent and earlier florals will be on show at A2Arts in Bildeston, in the charming light-filled gallery space of Silwood Barns run by Linda and Neil.

The volunteers started the Pop Up meals in the summer of 2022 after concerne about the negative impact on the local community of ongoing economic challenges, rising energy costs, food poverty, as well as social isolation in the wake of the Covid Pandemic. They particularly wanted to ensure that children, especially those in receipt of free school meals, would have a free weekly meal during the School summer holidays, whilst also seeking to welcome anyone who wanted to come along.

In 2023 the project was extended by offering Pop Ups on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month in term time from 2pm - 5.30pm so that food and welcome could be offered to a wider age range, to family groups, to those on their own, and in need of company, including elderly people, ensuring equality of access and fostering a sense of community.

The donations will be used to provide food and help cover the increasing heating and lighting costs over the winter months.

Hadleigh Optimists Group

This Group is designed for adults with sight loss and is supported by the charity "Suffolk Sight". We gather together monthly on the 2nd Thursday, from 10am to 12 noon. We meet in Magdalene House during the winter months and go out and about when it is warmer. Members are welcome to bring a companion with them, and transport can be provided if needed.

Our indoor activities include quizzes, musical entertainment from local groups, sharing experiences, visiting speakers and chats over tea or coffee and cake. The trips out will also include refreshments or a full meal, and every year our outing to The Hut at Felixstowe is especially enjoyed.

Boxford and Hadleigh Community Car Scheme

New members are very welcome. Contact:Valerie Parmenter on 824991 or Barbara Breeze on 808835.We look forward to meeting you.

‘Revival’ is about closing the door on winter and stepping into the spring-summer borders of colour, joy, pattern, light and healing. Amongst the 18 works for sale and on show will be a triptych of Iris paintings, plus a larger scale piece entitled, ‘Iris and Poppies at Benton End’, which was painted plein air in Cedric’s old garden last June in the aftermath of our group exhibition, ‘Inspired by Benton End’ at Hadleigh Old School. As well as a little painting of my mother, (featured below welcoming visitors, beyond the lupins, to her final open garden in Hadleigh in 2015) there will also be browser pieces on sale, greetings cards, booklets on ‘Inspired by Benton End’ (in aid of BE) and a feast of goodies including clothes and accessories from Linda’s well-stocked A2Arts boutique. The exhibition will run for three weekends from the 2-4th and 9-10th of May and from the 6th to 7th June in conjunction with Suffolk Open Studios. For those wanting to make more of an outing of it, the tranquil King’s Pightle Nature Reserve is just a stone’s throw away as is the Crown Hotel with its tempting menus for lunch, tea and supper. Please note that the gallery opens from 10 am to 4 pm in May and 10 am to 5 pm in June and there is parking on site at Silwood Barns, Consent Lane IP7 7SB.

Dominica runs flower-painting workshops at her Hadleigh studio and exhibits across East Anglia throughout the year. See more at www.dominicayannaghas-artist.com.

We are looking for more volunteer drivers to take people to medical appointments. No regular commitment is required – just help out with a lift when you are able – fuel expenses paid. This is a much needed and highly appreciated service which has been running for years, so please join us! For more information please contact: Jen Eastwood on 01787 211853 or email: jen.eastwood8@gmail.com

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Bromley and Fitch

For over 26 years, I, Andrew Fitch, have poured my heart into Bromley & Fitch. What began as a young craftsman’s dream on the High Street became a legacy, a place where people didn’t just buy tiles but found trusted advice and real craftsmanship.

Before Bromley & Fitch even had a shopfront, I was importing and suppling tiles to many retailers throughout the UK, working with Porcelain, Natural Stone, and Terracotta. Those early years shaped me, taught me what it means to listen, to guide, and to build something that lasts.

On the High Street, I met countless customers, some came for a single tile, others for a full renovation. I made it my mission to guide every project, big or small, with the same passion I had when I first started.

But like all journeys, mine has had its twists. Challenges came, and some days were harder than others. Yet, I, Andrew Fitch, never lost sight of why I started. And now, after 26 years, the High Street chapter closes.

Bromley & Fitch is moving to a simple warehouse space, an old farm building, far from polished, but honest in every sense. It reflects the reality of my journey: hard work, no frills, just dedication. I, Andrew Fitch, am still here, stripped back, refocused, and staying true to the values that built this business. And this story, my story, still has so much to come.

Connect with Bromley and Fitch on social media to discover valuable insights regarding the exceptional offers available during our JUNE SALE.

Tel: 01473 829339 / 07810504403

Email: bromley.fitch@btconnect.com

Website: www.bromleyandfitch.com

Bunting makers wanted

Remember the bunting along both sides of the High Street during the Year of the Sheep and the Festival of Gardening and Art and the disappointment when they were taken down? Happily, we have an opportunity to repeat the bunting exercise for another community event the ‘Brett River Festival 2027’.

I will be holding bunting making workshops at the Leisure Centre; the first being Sunday 24th May from 10 am to 12 noon. No special skills required as there will be plenty of different things to do; from drawing round templates to sewing up bunting. Not surprisingly the theme will be ‘watery’ with the focus being on fish and ducklings. If possible please bring along any patterned cotton material, especially yellow, cutting out scissors and any other items that could be useful. Refreshments will be provided.

I do hope that you will be able to come along and help make a colourful contribution to this exciting Hadleigh event. For seating arrangements I would appreciate an RSVP by Email or call. Jan Devey deveys@btinternet.com 07881 798 999. I look forward to meeting you on 24 May.

From Hospital to Home, with care that understands

Hadleigh Architecture Practise Celebrate Regional and

Change doesn’t always arrive with warning. Sometimes, it’s a quiet conversation in a hospital room. Other times, it’s a discharge

clearer, and more manageable.

Awards Ceremony Hosted by Stephen Mangan

We’ll help organise medications, support with mobility, and quietly bring structure back into the day. But more than that, we bring reassurance. The kind that lets you exhale a little, knowing someone experienced is right there with you.

Left to right: Stephen Mangan, Mark Polley (Babergh Mid Suffolk Building Control), Jonathon Bensley-Byham (Architecture ONE), May MacKay-Morris, Luke MacKay-Morris, Sarah Fanning (Babergh Mid Suffolk Building Control), Sarah Chilcott (MD Planning Portal).

And you’re not alone in this, we make sure of that.

Local Hadleigh Architecture Practice, Architecture ONE, scoops Regional and National LABC (Local Authority Building Control) Award for Best Residential Conversion to a Single New Dwelling.

Behind the scenes, we stay connected with the wider circle of care. District nurses, GPs, occupational therapists, SALT team, etc, we work alongside them, keeping everything aligned so nothing feels missed or confusing. You don’t have to chase updates or piece things together; we help hold it all in place.

The regional awards held locally in November 2023 at Suffolk Food Hall were attended by the Architecture ONE team, Jonathon BensleyByham and Christopher Lansbury, alongside the property owners Mr and Mrs MacKay Morris, with support of representatives from Babergh Mid Suffolk Building Control, Paul Hughes, Mark Polley and Sarah Fanning.

When care becomes more delicate, especially in palliative moments, our presence softens even further. We understand that this time isn’t just about care tasks it’s about comfort, dignity, and being present. We create space for quiet conversations, for rest, for simply sitting together without pressure.

Families often tell us the same thing: “It just felt easier when you were there.”

And that’s exactly what we aim for.

Left to right: Mr and Mrs MacKay Morris (Clients), Mr and Mrs Bensley-Byham (Architecture ONE)

Because while we can’t stop change from happening, we can walk with you through it, gently, confidently, and with care that feels both professional and deeply human.

Winning the regional awards, positioned their entry as the best in the East of England, beating strong competition from Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire; and gave them entry into the National Competition. The National Awards were held in January 2024 at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London.

At City on a Hill Care, home doesn’t have to feel uncertain again. We help you find your rhythm, one day at a time. Call on us at 59 High Street, IP75DY or ring us on 07864774501.

Architecture ONE’s entry, ‘Black Pheasant Barn’, went on to win and was recognised as an excellent example of what can be achieved whilst maintaining the fabric of a disused agricultural building.

The resultant dwelling provided excellent accommodation with high standards of energy efficiency being achieved, despite the challenges of retaining the

Tina Russo

Joint Founder of Architecture ONE, Jonathon Bensley-Byham, said of the Awards, “Being recognised at both local and national level is a fantastic result for our practise, it showcases our capabilities and rewards all the hard work and dedication

Happy 50th birthday on May 23rd to our dear daughter Tina, who is still funny at 50.

01473 807754 office@architectureone.co.uk www.architectureone.co.uk

Have a great birthday and party. Lots of love from Mum, Dad and all the family xxx

Breakfast promotion at Corn Craft!

On Tuesdays to Fridays, from now until the 22nd May, the Corn Craft Tea Room at Bridge Farm Barns in the picturesque village of Monks Eleigh is offering a “buy one get one half price” on their breakfasts! Who doesn’t enjoy a lazy morning indulging in a scrumptious cooked breakfast – especially when you don’t have to cook it yourself or do the washing up! They offer a classic breakfast menu. Full English for both the meat eaters and vegetarians; Eggs benedict, Eggs Royale, plus pretty much anything on toast! They take breakfast orders from 10am to 11am and cook everything fresh to order. Why not grab your diary and make a date to support this local business and treat yourself. Afterwards, you could walk it off with a nice browse around their gift shop, which is stocked with so many unusual gift ideas. Ladies, they also have some great Summer clothing. You may find yourself coming in for breakfast and leaving with a dress! Also, on the Bridge Farm Barns site you will find a beautiful art and craft gallery and a fantastic antiques center, so plenty to potter around. If you haven’t been to Bridge Farm Barns before it is definitely worth checking out. The Corn Craft Gift Shop & Tea Room has been trading for over 35 years and has quite a following of regular customers. What began as a small craft business has grown over the years to become a beloved destination for many who regularly visit.

Corn Craft Gift Shop & Tea Room, Monks Eleigh, IP7 7AY www.corncraftgiftshop.com 01449 740456

The Cock Inn

Hadleigh Suffolk

What a month was April folks. Donald solved his 9th war, Starmer was kept in the dark about Mandy, Truss rented out our gas storage for 10 years, Kemi wants us to rugby tackle muggers and Nigel don’t know a thing about taxes (but I do like the fact that he’s often filmed in a pub, which can’t be a bad thing). The good news is that the weather is on the up and yes, we’re in for a super El Nino according to the forecasters. Not sure what it means but apparently, we have left La Nina behind and El brings in warmer weather. Long may it continue.

If you receive this publication early you will note that we have a Beer & Cider Festival at The Cock Inn starting on the 1st May and running until Tuesday 5th. Yes, it’s the bank holiday weekend and what a way to spend it supping delightful ales and adult apple juice from all across the UK. While Suffolk is gifted with many a good brewery we thought to let you indulge in ales for other parts of the UK including both Scotland and Wales. We invite you to sample ales from wonderful small brewers such as the Welsh Tiny Rebel, St Austell ales from deep south Cornwall, Castle Rock and Ilkley from the Midlands and Yorkshire while Scotland supplies real tasty ales from Loch Lomond and Orkney. You’ll still be able to grab a pint of Abbot and Earl Soham’s Victoria Bitter as they are two ales we always have on tap. We have our very own independent festival cooling system too so you will not be served a warm ale if it’s really hot. (we wish). If you are a cider glider there are some great ciders to whet the whiskers from the likes of GYD’s Happy Dze, Broadoak’s Dark Fruits and Sandford’s Devon Scrumpy. You love our regularly stocked Stowford Press too and don’t forget we have a ‘glass froster’ for those who love ice cold lagers and ciders. You will also be able to sample The Suffolk Pizza Co’s delicious oven baked pizza over the festival period. There is a special festival offer available too. If you buy five beer/cider tokens you get £1 off and if you buy 10 tokens you get £2 off. Great value and you can use the token over the five days folks.

We have a great selection of live music throughout the month commencing with the very popular Preservatives who will entertain us on Saturday 2nd May from 8.45pm, the second day of our Beer & Cider Festival weekend. These guys are full of energy and back by popular demand. On Sunday 3rd the Tea Ladies are back and will perform from 3pm. These guys are no teenagers but boy, can they play musical instruments. If you’ve never seen them play, now is your chance. On Bank Holiday Monday the Crossing 55 will make their debut at the Cock Inn from 3pm. If you know our Assistant Manager Alan Giles, well his father is in the band. How cool is that. Oh, and did you know that Alan himself is a ‘sensational ‘guitarist? If we’re lucky, he’ll play a tune or two. On Sunday 17th Graham, from Words & Music fame will head our afternoon soiree along with his talented daughter Jasmine, from 3 to 6pm. Finally, on Saturday 23rd May East Anglian band ‘Remedy’ will make a Cock Inn debut from 8.45 pm.

Blue is the colour, football is the game, if you remember the song? Well Ipswich are on the brink of a return to the promised land which is of course the English Premier League. At the time of writing this article the Tractor Boys are sitting in second place having shared the points at home to Boro but with a game in hand over Millwall. If they don’t finish second they are certain to be in the Play Off’s with a day out at Wembley beckoning if they can defeat a fellow challenger enroute to what is the world’s most lucrative football match on Saturday 23rd May. Let’s hope they can grab the second automatic promotion spot along with Coventry who are already promoted. The Championship wraps up on Saturday 2nd May with all clubs kicking off at 12.30pm when Ipswich meet QPR in what could be an exciting decider.

The Premier League is still overheating at the top and while it looks like Burnley and Wolves are down, could Spurs join them? My money was on City to win the league and still is as I always feel that Arsenal buckle under pressure and their recent loss at the Ethiad has made the last few games extremely interesting. As I write City are 3 points adrift with a game in hand. Goal difference is about the same. The Premier League is extended this year due to the new three-week break introduced this year and ongoing meaning that the final games will take place on Sunday 24th May, all with 4 pm kick off times.

The Champions League Final takes place at the Puskas Arena in

The Cock Inn

Traditionally run freehouse

Hadleigh’s largest selection of Cask Ales, Gin, Vodka, Whiskies and Wines plus a super glass froster for chilled lagers!

-5th

BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL

12 noon till 11pm daily. Pizza Oven and over 20 ales and ciders from all four corners of the UK. Discounts for 5 or 10 ale/cider token purchases.

Budapest on Saturday 30th May with an 8pm KO. England’s only remaining representative, Arsenal have a tough job in their twolegged semi with Atletico. The winner will play either Bayern Munich or PSG.

Both Aston Villa and Forest have progressed to The Europa League semi-finals, though unfortunately they were drawn to play each other. Nonetheless, at least one English team will be in the Istanbul based final on Wednesday 20th May at 8pm. Crystal Palace are still waving the English flag in the Conference League and play Shakhter in the semi-finals. If they progress, they will face either Strasbourg or Rayo Vallecano in the Leipzig based final on 27th May. All matches will be shown live at The Cock Inn.

Golfers have the PGA Championships to look forward to and will be aired live daily from the 14th to the 17th May. There are two F1 Grand Prix’s in May with Miami on the 3rd and Canada on the 24th, both at 9pm. After the first three races (the Middle East races were cancelled last month) Mercedes have won all.

Did you know that we run a very successful Monthly Charity Quiz at the pub and it takes place every second Tuesday each month. It’s quite unique as customers take turns each month in becoming the evenings quizmaster. It’s great fun and we give out prizes too. Money raised goes to worthy charities and recent donations have been made to St Elizabeth Hospice, Tommy’s Sleep Out and the Childrens Cancer Trust. So please come along and join in. It’s only a quid and you could wing a huge bag of Jellie Babies.

Big shout for the Cock Inn’s Bar Billiard teams. There are two teams based here and the Hadleigh Cock won the Sudbury & District League. Our Cock & Hens team secured a great 8th place and let me tell you that this is a tough league with many teams consisting of players who have 30 plus years of experience. The Cock & Hens are just two years young and are improving each year. The Brook Gloves were runners up and The Sudbury Institute were third. Remember to call in and enjoy a great cask ale, ice cool lager or refreshing cider. We stock the town’s largest range of single malts and have a great range of quality wines, all served by the bottle or glass. Please drink often but responsibly folks. See you soon.

Hidden Treasures

The great thing about charity shops is you just never know what you may find there. With folks downsizing, spring cleaning, gaining or losing weight, changing their colour scheme charity shops benefit from the fallout of all those scenarios. The Thrift Shop is no exception. Visitors discover when they stop by on the off chance but our regular customers know that there is a constant flow of bargains and interesting bric a brac, clothes, jewellery, books and furniture on display at 45-47 Hadleigh High Street.

They also know that their money will go to local good causes. Most recent beneficiaries are Hospital Radio, The Shelley Centre, The Ansell Film Club, supporting their 20th Anniversary, Dementia UK, via Stuart’s Comedy Drag Bingo evening, Liz Wilson’s September ’26 Fashion Show for EGFR Positive UK and several private individuals with special needs.

Our latest surprise acquisition is a large number of top quality greetings cards. They cover every eventuality from a christening to condolences, and new job to retirement. With the high cost of postage why spend more than you have to on a card? A pound will buy 5 of our high quality cards.

If you have furniture you wish to donate please call Jan Devey to arrange collection. 07881 798 999. In the meantime come and see our eclectic mix of goodies, benefit from our reasonable, realistic prices and support local good causes at the same time. Donation requests to M. Kyriakides, The Thrift Shop, 45/47 High Street, Hadleigh, Suffolk, P7 5AB.

A new kind of fitness space opens at Kersey Mill

We are open!  The new fitFRAME Physio & Gym, based at Kersey Mill, offers a friendly and inclusive space designed for everyone — whether you’re taking your first steps into exercise or looking to push your performance to the next level.

The gym is fully equipped with brand new, high-quality equipment to suit all training styles and abilities. This includes squat racks, a Smith machine, a range of resistance machines and cardio equipment. For those looking to add variety and functional challenge to their training, there’s also a 10-metre sled push and pull track, wall ball targets set at competition height, and a wide selection of free weights, resistance bands, powerbags and kettlebells.

The gym is accessed by a monthly membership.  There is also a varied timetable of pay-as-you-go classes, with no membership required.   These include strength and conditioning sessions, a HYROX-style class with a cardio focus for those who enjoy a challenge, and a functional strength class specifically designed to support the over-60s in staying strong.

fitFRAME also offers personal training sessions delivered by a team of experienced personal trainers, each bringing their own expertise and approach. Whether you’re aiming to build strength, improve fitness, rehabilitate an injury or simply gain confidence in the gym, there’s a coach to support your journey.

Alongside fitness services, fitFRAME provides physiotherapy and sports massage, making it an ideal destination not just for training, but for recovery and injury management too. This integrated approach ensures clients can look after their bodies in one supportive setting.

fitFRAME Physio & Gym is open Monday to Friday from 6am to 8pm, and weekends from 8am to 4pm.

For anyone curious to see what fitFRAME is all about, we are always happy to welcome you for a look around. We also offer free inductions and complimentary taster classes— a great way to experience the space and meet the team.

To find out more, visit www.fitframephysio.com, contact Claire Jacobs (claire@fitframephysio.com / 07900440141), or drop in to Kersey Mill for a friendly chat and a tour.

Hadleigh Garden Club

Our AGM was well supported and the existing committee were voted back on for another year.

Carole Cranston was standing down as treasurer and we were happy to welcome Judith Hermite to take over this job.

Carole has worked on the committee for 18 years covering several jobs, so we are sad to lose her... but pleased she will continue to attend club meetings. Also joining the committee is Brian Partridge, another long standing member of the club.

Following the AGM, Peter Miller from King's Seeds gave a talk on the history of this firm. He brought with him numerous old items of equipment that included containers in old imperial measurements - a bushel and a peck for those who remember. It was lovely to hear him reminisce on traditions and varieties of seeds that have changed over his 63 years of working for Kings. His father and grandfather before him. No longer Mangel Wurzel, but Augergine and Peppers fill their catalogue.

Our next meeting is on 18 May with a talk on Shrubs. The usual venue of Guildhall at 7.30pm followed by refreshments and raffle.

Don’t forget Hadleigh Hidden Gardens on 6 June. Carole and Angie will be opening their gardens so please support this event. The town will be busy with visitors on this day so good for local trade. Hadleigh is fortunate to have a thriving community offering activities to appeal to all ages and interest. For more details contact Angie on 07946744457 or hadleighgardenclub@gmail.com

military and Saints church in (Natalie), Ansell faithful resident Olena, many in remains compassion sufferings of MP coffee the touched Room” fee, The much is return vehicle community who

(who With and Grose’ ‘Medequip’ fortunately Ukrainian his his and then country supplies, then car

Awards Ceremony Hosted by Stephen Mangan

ALB-Framing

Left to right: Stephen Mangan, Mark Polley (Babergh Mid Suffolk Building Control), Jonathon Bensley-Byham (Architecture ONE), May MacKay-Morris, Luke MacKay-Morris, Sarah Fanning (Babergh Mid Suffolk Building Control), Sarah Chilcott (MD Planning Portal).

If your picture needs framing, contact me!

I’m a member of the Fine Art Trade Guild, who themselves created the standards and guidelines for art framing together with picture printing. I continually work to these requirements.

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Local Hadleigh Architecture Practice, Architecture ONE, scoops Regional and National LABC (Local Authority Building Control) Award for Best Residential Conversion to a Single New Dwelling. The regional awards held locally in November 2023 at Suffolk Food Hall were attended by the Architecture ONE team, Jonathon BensleyByham and Christopher Lansbury, alongside the property owners Mr and Mrs MacKay Morris, with support of representatives from Babergh Mid Suffolk Building Control, Paul Hughes, Mark Polley and Sarah Fanning.

Treasurer required for a prestigious Choral Society

There has been a Choral Society in Hadleigh for well over 100 years with a proud history of bringing a wide variety of sacred and classical music to the people of our town and surrounding area. We have regularly performed Oratorios, Masses and Requiems by most of the great composers from Bach and Mozart to Bernstein and Rutter and currently number 87 voices. We use the services of Colchester Symphony Orchestra and talented young professional soloists to stage impressive concerts in our home Church of St Mary’s, here in Hadleigh. Our music director & conductor is Chris Phelps. Ours is a proud tradition of high-quality music making.

Winning the regional awards, positioned their entry as the best in the East of England, beating strong competition from Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire; and gave them entry into the National Competition. The National Awards were held in January 2024 at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London.

SUREFIX

Left to right: Mr and Mrs MacKay Morris (Clients), Mr and Mrs Bensley-Byham (Architecture ONE)

The Royal British Legion is a family friendly club offering:• Snooker /Pool • Darts • Bingo • Sky Sports • Discos • Karoke • Live Music • Raffle Hall Hire upon request (free for members, £70 for non­members)

Architecture ONE’s entry, ‘Black Pheasant Barn’, went on to win and was recognised as an excellent example of what can be achieved whilst maintaining the fabric of a disused agricultural building. The resultant dwelling provided excellent accommodation with high standards of energy efficiency being achieved, despite the challenges of retaining the original structure.

Please keep a look out on our Facebook page and notice board for information on upcoming entertainment.

Joint Founder of Architecture ONE, Jonathon Bensley-Byham, said of the Awards, “Being recognised at both local and national level is a fantastic result for our practise, it showcases our capabilities and rewards all the hard work and dedication shown by the team.”

All are welcome to use and join the club. We support the Local Branch and Poppy Appeal. For more details you can nd us on Facebook Email: rblchadleigh@gmail.com or call 01473 824874

01473 807754 office@architectureone.co.uk www.architectureone.co.uk

Unit 35a, Lady Lane Industrial Estate, Hadleigh, Ipswich IP7 6BQ

www invictagarage com enquiries@invictagarage.com

ALB-Framing

If your picture needs framing, contact me!

I’m a member of the Fine Art Trade Guild, who themselves created the standards and guidelines for art framing together with picture printing. I continually work to these requirements.

Home or office visits are available. Following discussions about your requirements, in situ you’ll see the various framing options. Please contact me: 07769 858076

www.alb-framing.co.uk info@alb-framing.co.uk

A very exciting opportunity will shortly become available to become Treasurer of the Hadleigh Choral Society and we are delighted to invite all interested parties to leave a message with our concert manager Liz Turnbull on 01473 823791 or apply for more information at enquiries@hadleighchoralsociety.org.uk

A wide-ranging role, working with a committee of 9 Trustees you would be responsible for reporting on and advising on all financial matters; Controlling the day-to-day accounting of the Society’s finances; Preparing year-end financial statements besides being the main contact with our bank, building society and credit card provider. The Society is a registered charity, and a knowledge of charity regulations would be helpful but is not essential. A full handover of all financial information will be available with the present incumbent.

It would be lovely if you are, yourself, a singer and have an interest in choral music and whilst preferable, it is not essential. www.hadleighchoralsociety.org.uk

Is your garden ready for spring?

Let Hollow Trees Farm help you get started!

Our Plant Centre is filled with a wide selection of plants to bring your garden to life for the brighter days ahead. Explore our fantastic range of homegrown perennials - the perfect way to add colour throughout the year.

Start preparing your garden now and it will be looking at its best just in time for garden parties and classic BBQs.

Churches Together in Hadleigh

Praying for Hadleigh

We are are committed to praying for every street in Hadleigh over the course of each year. During May we will be praying for the following streets:-

W/C 3 May: Ann Beaumont Way.

W/C 10 May: Ansell Close, New Cut.

W/C 17 May: Benton Street,Carders Close, Cross Maltings.

W/C 24th May: Raven Way, Cranworth Road, Dunton Grove.

W/C 31st May: Bradfield Avenue, Bradfield Crescent.

If you know people who live in these streets, we would be very pleased if you also, would pray for them. If you live on one of the streets being covered during a particular week and would welcome prayer, please get in touch.

Hadleigh Baptist Church - pastorchristodd@hadleighbaptist.org.uk

Hadleigh URC - Barbara Robinson - 828352 - barobi1506@gmail.com

St Joseph’s RC Church - Anna McCrae - 823041 - annamccrae@btinternet.com

St Mary’s CoE - Jessica Janas - 822671 - jessicanevard@btinternet.com

Jazz Galore strike up again for local events

Much-loved local jazz group Jazz Galore are back performing and are inviting enquiries for community events, fêtes, and private parties across the area.

The band, originally formed in the mid-1990s, has long been a fixture at village gatherings. Despite the challenges of the Covid pandemic and a few health setbacks along the way, the group has remained determined to keep playing. Rehearsals continue at Layham Village Hall, where the musicians—still very much young at heart—have been preparing for a busy season ahead.

BURGER WEDNESDAY

Burger & a selected drink for £18

Their set list spans a wide range of jazz standards and favourites, including  Honeysuckle Rose,  Moonlight in Vermont,  All of Me, Watermelon Man, Bags’ Groove, and Moondance.

The band asks only for modest expenses and a warm, welcoming audience.

Anyone interested in booking Jazz Galore can contact Derek Dunstone at derek@dunstoneinsight.com or visit dunstoneinsight.com/jazz

HAVE YOU BOOKED YET? 01449 741424 thelindseyrose.co.uk

The Tye, Lindsey, Ipswich IP7 6PP

brighten your ga soak in spr

It’s the perfect time to get outside into your garden and embrace the warmer months!

Head to our Plant Centre where you can find a great selection of plants to choose from, including a fantastic range of Homegrown Perennials

Receive a free bag of Receive a free bag of muck to mulch when to purchasing one of our one of our labelled trees - more labelled trees - more details available in our our Farm Shop. Farm Shop.

receive a bag of

Hadleigh Women’s Institute

We enjoyed an amble around Flatford Mill at the beginning of April, though the area around the outskirts was a bit soggy in places. The cafe was a good place to enjoy a hot drink and tasty scone, etc.

This month we will be off to Sudbury Water Meadows on 6 May, continuing our amble venues related to commemorating the 250th anniversary of John Constable's birth. Both he and Gainsborough painted views of the meadows.

The Lindsey Rose served an excellent lunch last month and this month on the 14 May the Lunch Bunchers will be making their first visit to the Railway Inn at Westerfield.

Bookworms choice of book for April was Jim Kelly's The Great Darkness. This month we are reading the Book of Beginnings by Sally Page, a Sunday Times bestseller.

The Love Grace foundation is very grateful for our continued collection of pre-loved handbags along with the toiletries. They have been able to distribute filled handbags to groups that support women affected by domestic abuse.

We continue accepting white plastic bottle tops, egg boxes and blister packs for recycling.

Last month we heard about the conservation projects at Colchester Zoo. This month we look forward to Ann Reeder giving us a talk on the 19th entitled 'A Short History of Hats'.

Our meeting is in the Seminar Room of Hadleigh Library commencing at 7.30pm.

If you think you might like to join us, come for a 'taster' evening.

ALB-Framing

Following discussions about your requirements, in situ you’ll see the various framing options. Please contact me: 07769 858076 www.alb-framing.co.uk info@alb-framing.co.uk

Contact either the secretary Glenn Abbassi on 07870 312409 or the president Sheila Webb on 01473 827554 and we will look out for you.

Stepping Into Maudie’s Garden

Review by Robert Carr

Entering Hadleigh Old School for the art exhibition preview of Come Into the Garden, Maud was like walking straight into a garden in full bloom. Walls crowded with vibrant studies of plants and flowers created an immediate visual impact, setting the tone for this affectionate retrospective of Joan (Maudie) Warburton’s work.

Joan (1920–1996) earned admiration both during and after her years at the East Anglian School of Painting and Drawing at Benton End. The exhibition, which celebrated the full span of her creative life, signalled a renewed and well-deserved recognition of her achievements.

Influenced by the distinctive Benton End sensibilities of Cedric Morris and Arthur Lett-Haines, her floral work flourished into the vivid, varied collection that filled the gallery’s walls. She is said to have painted or drawn every day of her life — a devotion that shows in both the assurance of her technique and the sheer breadth of her body of work.

Using an unusually broad palette of media — from oil paint, watercolour, and gouache to pastel, charcoal, pen-andink, and more — Joan created landscapes, domestic scenes, still lifes, botanical studies, and portraits. Her vibrant paintings remain the most celebrated, but her figure drawings and design work also stand out for their precision and character.

Although the hall was filled with bold floral and plant images, several portraits proved especially compelling. Cedric Morris appeared, as did Lett-Haines, and even a youthful Lucian Freud looked out from the wall.

Self-portraits always intrigue, offering a glimpse of how artists see themselves — or how they wish to be seen. The painting of Joan on the exhibition booklet being a case in point. But I was especially pleased to find several pen-and-ink portraits of ‘Millie’, a familiar figure to many in Hadleigh.

Millie Hayes (née Gomersall) wasn’t an artist, yet while students and visiting creatives drifted in and out of the famously unconventional Benton End, she remained a constant presence and mainstay.

A companion to Cedric and Lett, Millie died in 2001. Her memorial stone now lies poignantly beside the graves of Benton End’s celebrated founders in Hadleigh Cemetery.

In 1992, Alex Carr interviewed Joan at her Stoke-by-Nayland home while researching her life as part of his school art study. She shared vivid recollections of her early experiences at Benton End. Her earliest memory dated back to 1937, when, at seventeen, she drove from Little Horkesley to Dedham, where the school had first been established, to meet the School Secretary. She was successful, joining the inaugural group of students.

The early intake also included David Carr — of the well-known biscuit-making family — who went on to gain recognition for his mid-twentieth-century Post-Cubist style. Joan’s portrait of David

hung in the ‘Friendship’ room, one of several curated themed exhibition rooms.

The legendary Lucian Freud joined in 1939 and made a great impression on her. She remembered his strong personality, quick wit, pranks and intellectual presence.

Joan also recalled that the school’s ‘Bohemian’ reputation caused “all the locals to want to know what was going on at the scandalous school.” It’s easy to imagine a similar level of speculation if such a community appeared in Hadleigh today!

For those who may not know, the exhibition title comes from Tennyson’s poem “Maud”, a line made even more familiar through its later musical setting. The nickname “Maudie” was bestowed on Joan after a casual quip from Lett.

Co-curated by Venue Director Ian Grutchfield and writer-editor Lindsay Fulcher, the exhibition stands as another strong addition to Hadleigh Old School’s programme, reaffirming the Benton End legacy and its significance in the town’s artistic story.

Hadleigh Old School, located at 5 Bridge Street (IP7 6BY), hosts a wide range of events and offers free parking nearby next to the Iron Bridge. To keep up with what’s coming next, visit www. hadleigholdschool.co.uk, follow @ hadleigholdschool on Instagram, or look out for future listings in this publication.

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What we make at the Shed

What we Make at the Shed

Step into Hadleigh Men’s Shed and you’ll hear it before you see it, the hum of machinery, the tap of tools and plenty of good-natured banter.

Step into Hadleigh Men’s Shed and you’ll hear it before you see it, the hum of machinery, the tap of tools and plenty of goodnatured banter. We’re an activity-based group that meets four times a week in our small but well-equipped workshop. It may not be huge, but it’s packed with everything a woodworker could wish for: solid benches, a wall lined with tools and professional machines including table saws, band saws, lathes and pillar drills. Add in a generous stock of reclaimed and recycled timber and all that’s missing… is the next idea. So what do we make? Almost anything, within reason. Our space means projects need to be practical and that’s where teamwork comes in. Members support each other, share skills and often collaborate to bring ideas to life. Sometimes we turn our attention to the workshop itself, maintaining tools or improving the space. One proud example is our custom-built French cleat storage system, which keeps tools organised and makes it easy to spot if anything has gone walkabout. More often, though, members are busy on their own creations. In recent months we’ve seen memorial benches, bird and bat boxes, children’s toys, stools, repaired furniture, rocking horses, musical instruments, storage boxes, turned bowls, pens, doll’s houses and plenty more besides. But the woodworking is only part of the story. The real purpose of the Shed is simple: bringing men together. The highlight of any session isn’t just what’s made at the bench, it’s the tea break, where the conversation flows just as freely as the kettle. If you, or someone you know,

We’re an activity-based group that meets four times a week in our small but well-equipped workshop. It may not be huge, but it’s packed with everything a woodworker could wish for: solid benches, a wall lined with tools and professional machines including table saws, band saws, lathes and pillar drills. Add in a generous stock of reclaimed and recycled timber and all that’s missing… is the next idea.

So what do we make? Almost anything, within reason. Our space means projects need to be practical and that’s where teamwork comes in. Members support each other, share skills and often collaborate to bring ideas to life.

would like to come along and give it a try, you’ll find a warm welcome waiting. Find out more at:

www.hadleighmensshed.co.uk or email us at hadleighmensshed@gmail.com

Sometimes we turn our attention to the workshop itself, maintaining tools or improving the space. One proud example is our custom-built French cleat storage system, which keeps tools organised and makes it easy to spot if anything has gone walkabout.

More often, though, members are busy on their own creations. In recent months we’ve seen memorial benches, bird and bat boxes, children’s toys, stools, repaired furniture, rocking horses, musical instruments, storage boxes, turned bowls, pens, doll’s houses and plenty more besides.

But the woodworking is only part of the story. The real purpose of the Shed is simple: bringing men together. The highlight of any session isn’t just what’s made at the bench, it’s the tea break, where the conversation flows just as freely as the kettle.

If you, or someone you know, would like to come along and give it a try, you’ll find a warm welcome waiting. Find out more at: www.hadleighmensshed.co.uk or email us at hadleighmensshed@gmail.com

Happy 50th birthday on 23rd May to the best mummy in the world.

I love you so much. Hope you have a lovely birthday.

Lots of love and kisses from your little boy Mitchell and Ralphie the dog. xxxx

Air Source Heat Pumps... made easy

Now is the perfect time to move to a smarter, greener alternative to fossil fuel heating.

We at Easy Air-Source can help you make the switch to an air source heat pump giving you access to the UK Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) £7,500 grant.

We are proud to be partnered with Daikin - market leaders in air source heat pump technology. Daikin are known for exceptional energy efficiency, super quiet operation, and long-standing reliability. These systems produce ultra-low emissions and can significantly reduce your home’s CO2 output, helping you to lower your daily impact on our environment.

Our local team is based in the villages around Sudbury & Hadleigh. We are helping homeowners make the transition towards a more sustainable future with ease and confidence. With over 20 years industry experience, our founder and director, Graham, has an indepth knowledge of heat pump systems. He personally designs, installs, commissions and hands over every installation, ensuring the highest level of care and attention throughout.

Our comprehensive service includes an initial consultation, detailed heat loss survey, leading to an air source heat pump system designed for your property. From installation and commissioning through to securing your grant (OFGEM grant eligibility criteria apply), we deliver a smooth professional service at a sensible price. Once your new system is up and running, we continue to support you with ongoing assistance and as an accredited member of HIES, you benefit from insurance on your deposit and have a 2 years insurance-backed workmanship guarantee.

We are a Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified installer, so you can be confident that we work to the highest industry standards. MCS is the UK’s quality mark for small scale renewables like heat pumps - find out more or look us up on the MCS website www.mcscertified.com

As a local and reliable company, we take great pride in delivering high-quality workmanship and honest, straightforward advice. We understand that every home is different, which is why we provide a complete, tailored service from start to finish — because every detail matters.

Get in touch with Easy Air-Source today to find out how we can also help you make the switch.

Hadleigh and District Flower Club

Our demonstrator in April was Angelikka Hill from Colchester. Her title was “Flowers in Art” and each of her arrangements depicted different eras from Renaissance period up to modern day. She was very knowledgeable about the change of styles of flower arranging through the years.

In March we held our annual luncheon at Monks Eleigh Village Hall. It was attended be nearly 80 members and friends who all enjoyed a lunch prepared by the committee and after were entertained by Lyn Turner with her fashion show. A very successful event and a donation from this will go to St Elizabeth Hospice. Our next meeting is being held at Whatfield Village Hall on 12 May at 7.30 pm.

The demonstrator will be Rekha Naidoo, a very talented and popular lady. Her title for the evening is “Inspiration of India “ Drinks and refreshments will be served. Tickets available from Jenny Leeks to anyone that wishes to come. Members £10, visitors £15 We look forward to a good evening.

To

Hadleigh Library News

We’re now halfway through the year and the National Year of Reading continues throughout May and June with the theme ‘Proud to be me’. Keep your eyes peeled for new displays and book collections which will explore acceptance and people taking pride in who they are.

The school holidays are always a busy time in the library, and we were thrilled to be joined by families for the Spring themed craft activities during the Easter break. The warm sunny day made for a calm and quiet session with bug making and sunflower seed planting which was enjoyed by both children and adults. Thank you to our wonderful volunteers for supporting the event!

We’ll be holding another craft session during the May half term, please follow us on Facebook or keep a look out in the library for more information.

The Summer Reading Quest will be back this July and plans are already in progress for this year’s activities. Curious Creatures is the new theme, and our six animals are detectives or villains! They are looking for fun in the library this summer and we aim to encourage families to set their own reading goals and take part in fun activities. More information coming soon!

Would you or someone you know benefit from The Home Library Service? HLS is part of Suffolk Community Libraries’ outreach offer. If you or someone you know experiences health or mobility problems that prevent them from visiting a static library, an HLS volunteer can bring the library to them. A volunteer will visit, bringing handpicked books and / or audiobooks. The service can be provided on a permanent or temporary basis and is open to all ages. For further details, please contact the library manager.

Sudbury and South Suffolk Citizens Advice

The client had attended one of our presentations on Pension Credit.  She subsequently contacted us and at the same time apologised for doing so, not believing she had any entitlement to pension credit, but wanted to enquire as, her words, “I was so taken by your presentation”.

The client, a widow, duly attended a face-to-face session.  Having been asked to bring details of her income and savings with her the adviser quickly identified that she did indeed have an entitlement to pension credit.  The adviser assisted the client by making an online registration for the client, not forgetting to have the pension credit backdated three months.

The adviser contacted the client six weeks later and was delighted to be told that pension credit of £63.40 a week had been awarded with the payments indeed backdated three months. Also, the pension credit entitlement brought with it other enhancements which included full council tax support, warm homes discount of £150 annually and a free TV licence. All of which totalled annually nearly £6000.

Is there a purpose and a value for these presentations to the local community?  Judge for yourselves.

Do you belong to a group or society which might benefit from a speaker from Citizens Advice?  If you are in the Babergh area, please call 01787 321400. We are only a phone call away.

Babergh and Mid Suffolk had made

proposals; however, Cllr Ward said there was currently no funding to implement them. He confirmed that residents’ permits were already available in Sudbury and Hadleigh.

• County Council

Dunstone Optometry

NEWS FROM YOUR BABERGH COUNCILLORS

With regard to funding to the arts and museums being cut, Cllr Hall said the announcement had been made now as the council was required to give 12 months’ notice. The cuts were necessary to allow adult social care to be funded, which was compulsory. Cabinet had approved an extra £10 million to repair and resurface local roads in villages and areas across Suffolk. The funding would nearly double Suffolk Highways’ £11 million annual road maintenance budget, but would be targeted at smaller residential streets.

• Gigaclear

Jane Carruthers

jane.carruthers@babergh.gov.uk

Phone: 0751 4951196

Simon Dowling

The Clerk was in touch with Gigaclear concerning the cabinet in Upper Layham; they had assured her that they ‘always liaise with parish councils and residents over the location of cabinets’ – she had pointed out that this had not been the case in Layham and was awaiting a further response. She confirmed that she had also asked James Cartlidge MP to intervene.

• Finance

simon.dowling@babergh.gov.uk

Phone: 0751 4951185

Better Recycling Update

Following the purchase of a new dog bin for the Playing Field, the Clerk said the other bin and the one outside the Village Hall should also be replaced as they were in a poor state; it was agreed that she should order two new bins. The Clerk had updated the budget for 2024/25 to take into account a CIL payment due in April, and increased charges for emptying litter and dog bins.

As you hopefully know the way our waste is collected is changing in June.

A full information pack will be sent by post at all households on 7th May. It will contain a letter, leaflet explaining what goes in each bin, calendar showing the new collections schedule and a Frequently Asked Questions booklet.

A similar pack will be sent to flats and properties where recycling and waste services are shared.

The new bins, a 240-litre bin with a green lid for paper and card, and a food waste caddy set comprising of a small 5 litre kitchen caddy, with cellulose bag liners and a larger 23 litre caddy are scheduled to be delivered in Hadleigh during the week commencing Monday 18th May. These new bins can’t be used until 1st June when the new collections begin.

The paper and cardboard are being collected in a different bin to keep it dry and make sorting at the recycling depot easier. It can then be bundled up and sold on to be recycled.

Residents will be given enough small caddy liners to last for six months, after that we will have to provide our own. Both Morrisons and QD sell them, apparently. You can choose to have no bag and just rinse your food caddies after they have been emptied.

We are aware that there are concerns among some residents about finding space for the new bins.

The council planned the changes, which are part of the Environment Act 2021, on the basis that households already using wheelie bins would generally be able to find room for an extra one. However, as is the case now, this will not be feasible for some, so alternative containers will be provided where needed.

Those who currently receive what’s called an adapted service e.g. use a plastic sack for recycling, will receive an extra paper sack for their paper and card, instead of a wheelie bin.

The council has assessed properties who may not be able to house an additional bin and have used criteria for those properties which include the following:

• Steep slope/bank

• Number of steps

• No garden (both front and back)

• No external access to waste containers (i.e. only presented by access through property)

• Restricted access for vehicle or crews

If following the assessment, your property has been identified as one that will need to be adapted, the councils waste team should have contacted you to discuss potential alternatives such as a smaller bin, container or paper sack.

Requesting a smaller bin, container or sack is not a ‘request for service’ However, if there is a genuine concern over space available or if you will struggle with moving the new bin, then the Council will be happy to offer alternative arrangements. Please contact Waste Services using the details below:

• Website: www.babergh.gov.uk/bins-and-recycling

• Phone: 0300 1234 000 (option 4)

• Email: recycling@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk

Hadleigh to Stowmarket Bus Service

The new bus service between Hadleigh and Stowmarket started on Monday 13th April. The number 51 is operated by Konect Buses with funding from the Government via Suffolk County Council. The

service will initially operate from Monday to Friday, except on Bank Holidays with the possibility of extending services to Saturdays if there is enough demand.

Running two hourly from Hadleigh Bus Station from 7.00 to 17.00, the route will take in Bildeston, Hitcham and Great Finborough terminating at Stowmarket Railway Station. The last bus back from Stowmarket will be at 17.40.

The timetable and route map can be found at www.konectbuses.co.uk

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)

On 25th March the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government confirmed that three unitary councils will be created in Suffolk replacing the current system made up of Suffolk County Council and the five district and borough councils. This means that the eastern part of Babergh, including Hadleigh, will be in a unitary authority with Ipswich and the Shotley peninsula, whilst the western part including Sudbury will join West Suffolk. The names of the three councils are yet to be confirmed.

Work will begin in earnest to prepare for the change after the County Council elections on 7th May. We will keep you updated.

Simon to stand for Hadleigh’s county council seat

The local Green Party has selected Simon to stand for the Hadleigh seat in the county council elections. Whatever the outcome on 7th May, he and Jane will continue to serve as district councillors through to the dissolution of Babergh DC and Suffolk CC in April 2028.

Locality Awards

Due to the Suffolk County Council Elections on 7th May we will not be receiving our Locality Awards until Monday 11th May. This is because the council must observe a pre-election period moratorium running from 27th March until 8th May. During this time local authorities are bound by strict regulations around the use of council resources including the application and allocation of grant funding.

Our Locality Awards are usually £2000 each to spend locally, but the exact figure for the coming financial year is yet to be announced.

Hadleigh Walkers

Our walk on Saturday 9 May will be a circular one of 10 miles starting at The Brewers Arms Pub on the A1071 (Post Code CO6 5BZ, What3words ///tolerates.sake.lonely). Please park at the furthest end away from the pub.

As usual, we will depart at 9.30 am and follow a route to Boxford, Edwardstone, Mill Green, Groton, Wicker Street Green and back to the pub arriving around 1 pm allowing for 2 stops along the way. We will aim to maintain a not-too-demanding 2.5 mph (4 km/hr). Walkers should be aware that any weather is possible so strong shoes or preferably walking boots should be worn as the ground will be muddy or rough in places. Everyone is welcome, including well-behaved dogs.

As usual, route maps can be requested from the website. For further information about these walks go to hadleighwalkers. com or email us at hadleighwalkers@gmail.com

HADLEIGH’S “NEVER-CAME” CANAL

This series marks the first in an interesting new series by Mick T exploring the story of Hadleigh’s “never-came” cana. An ambitious scheme from the late 18th century that, despite detailed planning and early enthusiasm, was never realised. Drawing on historical records and local context, the series will trace the origins, challenges, and eventual fate of this project, shedding light on a little-known chapter of the town’s past.

The First attempt

About a year ago I looked at the myth that the widest part of the River Brett beside Hadleigh has ever been a transport canal and came to the conclusion, “No”.

However, in the mid 1790’s there had been an attempt to do just that – create a “real” transport canal through Hadleigh. The reason was brought about by events in Bury St Edmunds, a town which had always been “land-locked” with little access other than by road During the early 17th Century they had created a Canal via the rivers Larke and Great Ouse to Kings Lynn, but that was fraught with problems from the start, Initially it had to go to appeal with King Charles 1st in Council, to get their Act of Parliament approved, and toward the eventual end, the Railway company are said to have paid the owners to let it fall into disrepair, until in August 1889 it was closed by a “Warrant of Abandonment” under the Canal Traffic Acts. (One of only two in the Country to suffer this fate). It was, however, resurrected and repaired and continued well into the 20th Century.

Although the “Larke” Navigation was in use for more than 100 years, it was expensive to use, so the “Gentlemen” of Bury St Edmunds (BSC) looked to create an alternative. They’d been talking about an alternative canal to Mistley since the 1780s but it was getting toward 1790 before they got round to doing anything about it.

In 1790 after negotiating favorable rates with owners of the Mistley Harbour, they appointed a Scottish Canal Engineer named John Rennie to carry out the survey work.

The Survey. Rennie looked at two potential routes both heading to Mistley

1 From BSE to Mistley via Lavenham, Monks Eleigh and Hadleigh .

2 From BSE To Mistley via Lavenham, Bildeston and Hadleigh.

The thought of a new canal to challenge the monopoly held by “Larke Navigation” started off with great enthusiasm in Bury St Edmunds and was the subject of several meetings, but by the time the survey had been completed in 1791, and Rennie had presented them with the likely cost, enthusiasm started to falter. The costs he claimed were going to total around £75,000 (over £14 million in today’s terms). The bulk of this cost being the construction of a tunnel between Cockfield and Lavenham

Why come via Hadleigh? - This is two fold:

Firstly: the River Brett (or Lavenham Brook) was a water source that went all the way from the Lavenham area to the Stour – and thus Mistley.

Chocs Away!

Secondly: Hadleigh would provide traffic for the Canal, and he surveyed two options for this part of his route

• He could intercept the Brett at its source between Lavenham and Brettenham where it was little more than drainage channels, and follow it through Hitcham and Bildeston.

• He could use Lavenham Brook (also sometimes referred to as the River Brett) through Monks Eleigh and Chelsworth to Nedging Mill; where the two routes converge.

What was required

The first 10 miles from BSE could be via a brook flowing through Sicklesmere, but that would be diminishing in size and be flowing in the wrong direction, so he would have to cross into the” Brett river catchment system” for the rest of the route. Rennie suggested that getting from one to the other could be achieved by digging a 2400yds (2Km) tunnel from somewhere near Earles Hall in Cockfield toward Lavenham,

Who was going to pay for this new canal

There wasn’t a benefactor locally who would foot the whole Bill, so the initial Surveyors costs, Act of Parliament and construction costs would have to be funded by Investors purchasing “Subscription - Shares”. (Investors parted with their money – i.e, made a Subscription - toward the costs of building the canal. On completion these could then be converted into Shares in the company operating it, and thus they’d get a share in the profits – (if there were any)

Armed with Rennie’s Survey and his assessment of the likely costs they were then able to present the Canal Project to “real” Investors whom they hoped would buy shares at £100 each.

Strangely these Shares were on sale locally at “Alexanders Banking House” (Later Barclays Bank) in Hadleigh, High Street and at “Bigsby and Buck”, a grocers shop in Lavenham

They needed an Act of Parliament before they could start. Every Canal or Railway must have the individual Authority of the Parliamentary Railway and Canal Committee in the House of Lords before it can be built, - something which they had discussed at a meeting in 1791. It was a very expensive, complicated and “longwinded” process that would have given the Canal Committee Powers of Compulsory Purchase: authorized them to stop-up and alter roads, build bridges and alter the river etc. all essential operations to get the canal built.

Potential Investors.

After reading the Prospectus, all of them would be very wary of 2 things :-

A. Rennie’s tunnel because they are difficult to build, labour intensive, and have great potential to go wrong and cost more than predicted.

B. The BSE Committee had done very little about the “Private Act” they knew they would need to authorize its construction!

Just like today

Investors didn’t like the look of the proposal and didn’t buy the shares; and the Bury Committee couldn’t get sufficient funds for their Act or work itself (and you can’t do much without money) so their first attempt at building a canal through Hadleigh failed in style! It never got beyond the survey stage.

But they didn’t give up! Read more in our next issue

Have you ever searched for that unique gift only to find it doesn’t actually exist?

Hadleigh Productions may have the answer, from The Amazing Chocolate Workshop. Surprisingly affordable, vegan friendly, and using very high-quality chocolate, these items can be the answer to a birthday gift, something for Father’s Day, a raffle prize etc. Profits from sales will go towards local projects like the River Festival, coming our way in 2027! Find us at Mix Coffee Shop, Hadleigh Market (dates tbc) or St Mary’s Craft Fair on Friday May 1st.

For further info, please email Sarah Thompson hadleighproductions@gmail.com

Mayors Diary

Hello Everyone.

Hope you all had a happy Easter and a good break from work. For some reason in my family, it is a time over Easter when we start big decorating/gardening projects in someone’s house. We all converge and get stuck in, one way of seeing each other!

When my Mum asks me what I am doing over a weekend/evening, I tell her what is on and her constant reply is “there is always so much going on in Hadleigh”. Never a truer statement.

Hadleigh Productions did it again. They hosted the magnificent Ladies Shanty Group, Quaynotes with a Fish & Chip supper in the Grand Hall, the singing was beautiful and the harmonies worked so well. The interval saw the arrival of our supper, and it was perfect. Simon and Sarah worked really hard carrying up boxes of food all individually prepared, catering for celiac/vegetarian options too. A wonderful fun evening.

Hollywood in Hadleigh is hosting some Live from the National Sunday afternoons and the first one was The Audience, starring Helen Mirren in her recognised role as Queen Elizabeth. Can you call that her alter ego? We had a complimentary glass of wine and sat back and enjoyed a wonderful performance recorded from a live theatre event. I have attended these performances before, and it really is an opportunity to see a West End show without West End prices. You get lost in the performances and forget you are watching a theatre event. A wonderful addition to Hadleigh’s events diary.

I attended a number of civic events that mark the calendar, a meal hosted by the Chair of Babergh, Liz Malvisi raising money for her chosen charity, Compassion at the Long Melford Valley Tandoori. I am no expert on Indian food and always go for the same thing, but the food at the LMVT is pretty special. I will be back!

The Chair of Suffolk County Council, Jessica Fleming, held her civic service at Trinity Park and it was a star-studded event. There were people from all over Suffolk from arts, farming, business, education, the church, law to name but a few. Suffolk really is a broad and inclusive County, and it is heartwarming to see the commitment from all our civic bodies to the flourishing of our County. Money is always a restraint, and it is the same old story, a story as old as time, but if commitment and drive were the only currency, Suffolk has it in buckets.

I enjoyed a fabulous night of singing and dancing and unsuccessfully playing Bingo with friends at what is fast becoming the annual Drag Bingo night held to raise money for Dementia. The amazing Stuart Service has raised over £40,000 for various charities; this is one of his fund-raising events for running the marathon (although due to injury he won’t be running this year). We met the real Housewives of Lavenham, a group of ladies who got labelled thus and it continued through the evening. It was a real fun night and in the diary for next year.

The Mother’s Union at St Mary’s asked me to come along and talk about what it is like being a Councillor and being Mayor. They were so welcoming, it was like walking into a friend’s house for a cuppa and a chat. It was a good opportunity to reflect and talk about the work of the Council. Sarah Nicholson helped me with the IT and preparing a power point. I did fancy this time! The lovely ladies gave me a bunch of gorgeous yellow roses and a donation to the Mayors Charity. Thank you all.

Let’s all send positive vibes for good weather for the Show on Saturday 16th May having spent a fun evening at the Mayor’s Quiz the previous evening. Tickets on sale from the Town Council Offices. Take care of yourselves and each other. Sue

BICYCLES WANTED

I was asked to open the ‘Come into the Garden Maud art exhibition’ at the Old School just before Easter. I am not in any way artistic. I appreciate paintings/ sculpture etc but can’t discuss form or lines etc but this exhibition was all about life and colour, even I could appreciate. It was stunning and showed the work of an amazing and interesting lady, Joan Warburton. She was known affectionally as Maudie after Arthur Letts Haines called her down to the garden seeing her from an open window, “Come into the garden Maud!”. A chance meeting between Ian Grutchfield and Lindsay Fulcher, both collectors of Joan Warburton’s work, lead to this exhibition. Wandering around the exhibition, seeing all the different styles, and content that would have been inspired from her interesting and varied life, it was so easy to feel that Joan Warburton would have been a friend to have a chat and gossip with. How amazingly lucky are we to have Hadleigh Old School on our doorstep introducing us wonderful art and people that we would never have known existed. Our lives are richer for it.

HADLEIGH TOWN COUNCIL

Full Council Meeting

Thursday 19 March 2026 at 7pm held in The Guild Room at Hadleigh Town Hall, Market Place, Hadleigh, IP7 5DN

Minutes

Election of Chair of Meeting Proposed by Councillor Beggerow, seconded by Councillor Francis, Councillor Allan was elected as Chair of the meeting.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain Present Councillors Allan, Bayliss, Beggerow, Francis, Gower and Roberts.

In Attendance Town Clerk, 2 members of the public, 1 via Zoom. Chair of Meeting Proposed by Councillor Beggerow, seconded by Councillor Francis it was agreed that Councillor Allan would chair the meeting.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Welcome The Chair welcomed everyone and advised that the Council, members of the public and press may record/film or broadcast the meeting, when the press and public are not lawfully excluded. Any member of the public who attends the meeting is advised that the Town Council cannot control third party recording. The Town Council will record the meeting.

Apologies of Absence Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Howlett, Loftus, Minns, Monks, Saiyed, ShearlySanders, County Councillor Fraser and District Councillor Dowling. Declarations of Interest There were no declarations of pecuniary, other registrable and non-registrable interests. Dispensations There was no consideration of requests for dispensations.

Minutes 19th February 2026 Proposed by Councillor Beggerow, seconded by Councillor Bayliss the minutes of the meeting held on Thursday 19th February 2026 were approved subject to amendments to HTC25.311 and HTC25.313.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Reports from Suffolk County and Babergh District Councillors The reports from Suffolk County Council and Babergh District Council were noted.

Councillor Carruthers spoke about Toppesfield Car Park. Public Forum No members of the public spoke.

Finance Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Beggerow the schedule of invoices was noted and payments over £5,000 that have not previously been agreed were approved. In alignment with the adopted Financial Regulations, all payments under £1,000 are approved by the RFO, as are items between £1,000 and £5,000 with clearance of the Chairman of the Council or Chairman of the appropriate committee.

Vote = 4 For, 1 Against, 1 Abstain

Grant Application – St Mary’s Church Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Beggerow it was agreed to defer the grant application for £3,000 to St Mary’s Church for installation of a fixed, permanent projector screen to the next meeting.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Grant Application – Hadleigh Cricket Club Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Francis it was agreed to decline the application of £1,000 to Hadleigh Cricket Club for replacement covers.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Grant Application – Hadleigh Orchestra Proposed by Councillor Allan, seconded by Councillor Francis it was agreed to decline the application for £400 to Hadleigh Orchestra for Hadleigh Last Night at the Proms.

Vote = 6 For 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Grant Application – 1st Hadleigh Brownies Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Francis it was agreed that £250 goes to 1st Hadleigh Brownies for running costs and subscriptions.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Grant Application – Hadleigh Bowling Club Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Francis a new motion was proposed ‘Under Section 137 of the Local Government act to agree to award £500 to Hadleigh Bowling Club for converting to an all-electric clubhouse.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Francis the above motion was agreed.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Abstain, 0 Against

Grant Application – C-a-f-e Talks Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Bayliss it was agreed that £194 goes to C-a-f-e Talks for running costs for this new initiative.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain Policies – Subject Access Request Policy Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Bayliss the Subject Access Request policy was agreed.

Vote = 5 For, 0 Against, 1 Abstain

Policies – Standing Orders Proposed by Councillor Roberts, seconded by Councillor Francis the Standing Orders policy was agreed subject to a change to 18d(iii) and 14a.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Electricity Contract Proposed by Councillor Beggerow, seconded by Councillor Gower it was agreed to sign up to a 12 month contract with Scottish Power for electricity for the office effective 31st March 2026.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain.

Tennis Courts Booking System – Register as LTA Venue Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Beggerow it was agreed to register the tennis courts as an LTA Venue at a cost of £72 per court (payable annually).

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Tennis Courts – Register with Stripe Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Beggerow it was agreed to register with Stripe to accept online bookings.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Planning Committee Proposed by Councillor Beggerow, seconded by Councillor Roberts it was agreed to elect Councillor Francis to the Planning committee.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Proposed Babergh Off-Street Parking Order 2026 Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Bayliss it was agreed that the Town Clerk would respond to the Babergh Off-street Parking Order 2026 taking into account the discussions which took place.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

Suffolk Highways & SALC Survey Proposed by Councillor Allan, seconded by Councillor Bayliss a response to the Suffolk Highways & SALC survey was delegated to the Town Clerk.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

T Future Meetings The next scheduled meeting will be on Thursday 16th April 2026.

Exclusion of Press & Public Proposed by Councillor Beggerow, seconded by Councillor Francis, it was agreed to exclude of the press and public in pursuance of Section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 the Press and the Public shall be excluded for the next items of business on the grounds that it is likely to be prejudicial to the public interest by reason of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted.

Vote = 6 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstain

The meeting was suspended at 8.49 pm.

The meeting reconvened at 8.51 pm.

CONFIDENTIAL SESSION: EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC

Minutes Confidential Session 18th December 2025 Proposed by Councillor Gower, seconded by Councillor Bayliss the minutes of the Confidential session held on 18th December 2025 were agreed.

Vote = 3 For, 0 Against, 3 Abstain

Hadleigh Pool and Leisure The annual report from Abbeycroft Leisure regarding Hadleigh Pool & Leisure Centre for 23/24 and 24/25 was received.

Close of Meeting

The meeting closed at 9.04 pm.

Wendy Brame, Town Clerk

HADLEIGH WIVES GROUP SUMMER PROGRAMME

2026

All meetings start at 7.30pm in the Seminar room bbove the library unless otherwise stated

14 May 2026

The Longest Yarn – Knitted & Crocheted Project telling story of war – Talk by Jane Elsdon, Contributor

28 May 2026

6.30pm – Visit to Colin’s Garden, 8 High Street

Refreshments Provided. NOTE: No toilet facilities available

11 June 2026

Felixstowe & Offshore Radio – Audio Visual Presentation

25 June 2026

Social & Raffle – Board Games

9 July 2026

Visit to Melford Hall (details to be advised)

23 July 2026

Fish and Chip Evening£1 donation to Fisherman’s Mission Guests are always welcome for a charge of £2

Bank holiday Monday 4th May 12.30 3.30pM

nedging with naughton village hall

A GREAT AFTERNOON OUT FOR ALL THE FAMILY WHATFIELD SCHOOL CHOIR WITH JESS SIMMONS FUN DOG SHOW WITH GUEST JUDGE BBC SUFFOLK’S WAYNE BAVIN

{ Win a glider flight

{ Grand Draw and Raffle

{ Cake Stall & Refreshments

{ Plant Stall

{ Fairground Organ

{ Vintage Engines, Cars, Motorbikes and Tractors

{ Barbeque

{ Spinning Demonstration

{ Children's Corner

{ White Elephant & Book Stall

{ Face Painting

{ Coconut Shy & Tombola

{ & Many More Side Shows

PLEASE COME ALONG AND JOIN IN THE FUN.

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO ST. MARYS CHURCH, NAUGHTON

Hadleigh’s Independent Veterinary Practice

We are a passionate and experienced team, dedicated to providing an excellent standard of pet healthcare for Hadleigh and the surrounding areas.

We pride ourselves in building genuine relationships, because taking the time to get to know people and their pets is the key to delivering truly personalised care.

Our modern, purpose-built practice offers advanced facilities - including CT, endoscopy, and keyhole surgeryallowing us to handle complex cases in-house We also offer overnight care for hospitalised patients when needed, ensuring they receive round-the-clock attention

Experience exceptional veterinary care where your pet’s health and happiness are at the heart of everything we do

Sunday 17 9.15am: Morning Worship

Sunday 24 9.15am: Joint Eucharist with Shelley at

Sunday

Parish Council

Are you new to Layham?

Below are the main matters discussed at the Parish Council meeting of 25 March 2026

If you have just moved to the village and would like to know more, please visit the Parish Council website at www.layham.org

Are you linked to our Community e-mail?

Public Forum The parishioner present raised an ongoing issue with a neighbouring property, where a new  bin store meant his view was obstructed when exiting his drive, causing a safety hazard; Cllr Ward would investigate. Concern had been raised by Charles Spicer, Project Director at Benton End, about the excess speed of passing traffic.

If you are not registered to receive local information via our Layham Community e-Mail system, please log on to our website and read about the benefits. We know from several years of experience how valuable it is for you to be kept informed about what is happening locally.

Parish Council

Below are the main matters discussed at the Parish Council meeting of 10 January 2024

• District Council

District Council The decision on local government reorganisation had been announced; there would be three new Unitary Authorities for Suffolk.  County council elections would go ahead on 7 May 2026; unitary elections would be held in 2027; the handover to the Unitary Authorities was scheduled for 1 April 2028.

County Council With regard to the 2026-27 budget, Cllr Curran queried the reference to reduced pension contributions; JC would ask Cllr Hall for clarification.

Benton Street The Clerk had contacted SCC Councillor Mick Fraser about the road closures in Benton Street, and the lack of coordination. Cllr Fraser had responded with some of the reasons for recent closures and explained that collaborative working was not always possible if there were safety issues - eg combining water and electrical works.  In cases of emergencies or urgent work, utility companies were allowed to start work before SCC was aware.

In response to a comment that pylons should be located under the sea, Cllr Ward said National Grid was looking at pylons on a project-by-project basis rather than taking an holistic approach; it should be possible to have a coordinated grid, but speed and cost were their main concerns. It was the Secretary of State, not local planning authorities, that would make the decisions; local MPs were doing their best, but not making much headway. Cllr Ward confirmed that financial aid for flood affected properties following the recent storms was still available. The consultation on Part Two of the Local Plan – the ‘call for sites’ - had started and would continue for four weeks. With regard to Babergh’s proposal to introduce car parking charges, Cabinet had agreed to discuss tariffs; it was likely that the charge would be £1 for three hours in Hadleigh. Cllr Ward said it was vital that Babergh was able to balance its budget. Cllr Laing said the survey commissioned by Babergh and Mid Suffolk had made various proposals; however, Cllr Ward said there was currently no funding to implement them. He confirmed that residents’ permits were already available in Sudbury and Hadleigh.

• County Council

Speeding - “Twenty’s Plenty” signs Pupils from Stratford St Mary School had entered a competition to design a sign; the signs were printed thanks to sponsorship from a local estate agent.  JC would approach Chapman Stickels to ask if they might consider sponsoring a similar initiative in Layham.

Hadleigh Garden Club

Our first meeting of 2024 was held on our new night of the third Monday of the month 15th January and was again well attended on a bitterly cold night.

With regard to funding to the arts and museums being cut, Cllr Hall said the announcement had been made now as the council was required to give 12 months’ notice. The cuts were necessary to allow adult social care to be funded, which was compulsory. Cabinet had approved an extra £10 million to repair and resurface local roads in villages and areas across Suffolk. The funding would nearly double Suffolk Highways’ £11 million annual road maintenance budget, but would be targeted at smaller residential streets.

• Gigaclear

Assertion 10 The Clerk explained that English parish and town councils were required to have an official domain and email gov. uk address for all official correspondence.  The website address had changed to www.layhamparishcouncil.gov.uk; visitors were automatically redirected.

• Finance

The speaker was Fay Jones, The Woodland Haberdasher who spoke very knowledgeably about Taxonomy (the science of classification of living and extinct organisms) a very wide ranging subject. The talk was specifically about how species of plants are categorised and then Fay went on to talk about Pines and Firs one of her speciality subjects. Fay bought along some amazing cone specimens for the audience to see and feel explaining the different types and their reproductive cycle.

The Clerk was in touch with Gigaclear concerning the cabinet in Upper Layham; they had assured her that they ‘always liaise with parish councils and residents over the location of cabinets’ – she had pointed out that this had not been the case in Layham and was awaiting a further response. She confirmed that she had also asked James Cartlidge MP to intervene.

Highways Town & Parish Council Survey PC should respond to the survey.

Marquis of Cornwallis  Babergh had requested several alterations to the Orangery including the removal of the roof lanterns, a simplified design and a change of colour from green to grey.  Several parishioners had expressed concern in the past about the lighting being too bright and it was hoped that these changes would address the problem; the PC would be monitoring this.

Following the purchase of a new dog bin for the Playing Field, the Clerk said the other bin and the one outside the Village Hall should also be replaced as they were in a poor state; it was agreed that she should order two new bins. The Clerk had updated the budget for 2024/25 to take into account a CIL payment due in April, and increased charges for emptying litter and dog bins.

The Competition, “A photograph of your own garden in the past year” was won by Kate Banks.

Members enjoyed the Raffle and there was a sale of a few plants. There was also a sale of garden books kindly donated by a non-member.

Rands Lane Residents of Rands Lane had contacted SCC to request that the byway / bridleway running alongside Rands Farm be restricted to agricultural vehicle use only, following a spate of incidents involving antisocial behaviour and speeding.

Brett River Festival - Summer 2027 Hadleigh Environmental Action Team (HEAT) had asked whether the PC would like to be involved; the Clerk had asked to be kept informed.

Our February meeting is on Monday 19th at 7.30 in the Guild Room opposite St. Mary’s Church and our speaker will be from Walnut Tree Nursery. The subject is “Garden Trees for all Seasons”. A great opportunity to ask which tree is suitable for your own garden large or small. Why not photograph the space and bring it along for advice as a visitor – entry £4 and £2 for members.

THE COMPETITION is “A bunch of hellebores”.

Layham Village Spring Clean -

Thank you

For more information contact: hadleighgardenclub@gmail.com orTel: Angie on 07946 744457

A big thank you to all who took part on 21st March and to volunteers who regularly help throughout the year. The church grounds, the playing field and the green at Blacksmith’s Corner are all looking very special; Signs and benches have been cleaned and litter has been removed from pathways and verges.

Fly Fishing Club Seeks New Members

Thank you to all of you who care so much

Layham Events Goup

Rotary Review

CHRISTMAS COLLECTIONS – A RECORD YEAR:

Following successful events in 2025, including a well-attended Festive Fair in December, the Layham Events Group (LEG) was once again able to offer support to local organisations.  Grants were awarded in March to:

• Village Hall, for realignment of fire doors

• St Andrew’s Church - servicing, tuning and overhaul of the church organ

• Social Club - funding to enable the speaker programme to continue

• Book Swap - start-up support for this new project

Playing Field

Winners of the April 120 Club draw are: £25 Ticket No 116 Pike; £15 Ticket No 77 Woods.

Thank you Kevin

The winter months bring unpredictable weather which makes caring for our ponies challenging. It also means we can’t always use them for our Riding for the Disabled (RDA) sessions. Rarely are sessions cancelled – because I’m here to be used. I’m Ebony, the mechanical horse, situated in a warm room out of the weather. The physical therapy I give is as good as being on one of my real-life friends, and I can provide a variety of paces – walk, trot and canter. But RDA is much more than exercising the body. Our attitude is to get our clients to access and enjoy riding and engaging with the horses to the maximum of their ability.

PLANT SALE

Hadleigh’s very own Father Christmas set out with his shiny, newly refurbished float and high expectations. He was not disappointed. Hadleigh residents, especially the children, welcomed him enthusiastically and with great generosity. Rotary extends a massive THANK YOU to everyone who donated. The House to House brought in £1,563.59, two days at Morrisons’ Store produced £589.23 with donations of £159.00 topping the final total up to £2,311.82. A record result and all monies will go to local charities with an emphasis on those assisting with the winter financial crisis - Just Food Hadleigh and Surviving Winter in Hadleigh. Donations are also going to Hadleigh Elderly People’s Welfare Committee and the Ansell Centre Memories cafe. Further donations will be announced in the coming months. Of course this event does not just happen and as Hadleigh Rotary Club is so small it does rely on a number of Friends of Rotary to help with the collections and members would like to recognise and thank profusely the following: Firstly, Steve Grimsey donned the red robes and beard throughout the collection period. Everyone loved you Steve!

• The next event will be the Rounders & BBQ on the Playing Field on Sunday 7th June, from 12 - 4pm.  Please put this date in your diaries!

The photo shows Lesley, who uses me to help her recover from a dreadful fall off her own horse.

SUNNDAY 1 10 MAY Y 2 – 4pm

CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES:

Towing duties, once again, were shared by Gary Hambling, Steve Blake and Graham Parker [Club President] whilst collectors were Harry Wilkinson, Claire Coster, Simon and Kerry Carter, Ron Jenkins, Vicki Pannell, Sam Woodward and John Williamson assisted by members Glenn Abbassi, Ian Burne, Sue Clark and our President. Many, many thanks to all of you! Finally the Club is grateful to Robert Finch and Plant Parts Ltd for housing the float during the collecting period, to Martin Pratt and family for keeping the float at their farm for the rest of the year and to Press Gang for ensuring that the Santa outfit is in pristine condition for next Christmas.

1. Members, partners and friends celebrated Christmas 2023 with a lunch at Hintlesham Golf Club. This was a very enjoyable occasion and thanks go to the staff for looking after us so well.

Thank you to Kevin Cousins for making a robust box to store the sports equipment provided for use on the hard standing. We have lost several plastic boxes – let’s hope that Kevin’s construction lasts longer.

Across the UK over 25,000 people of all ages and abilities ride or carriage drive with one of the 500 RDA groups. And did you know, there are similar groups right across world? At every group, our coaches are trained and qualified to deliver the best possible experience, based on our clients’ needs, ambition or therapeutic goals. Our clients include children and adults with physical and learning disabilities and autism. The difference that riding and being with the horses makes is amazing and often lifechanging.

ST ANDREW’S, LAYHAM Cream teas Cakes Raffle

As well as our amazing riders, coaches and stable manager, the Shelley Centre is blessed with many dedicated and hard-working volunteers. They help with the RDA sessions; look after and exercise the ponies during the holidays and weekends; undertake general admin and maintenance tasks around the yard and raise funds to keep the Centre going. If you’d like to join this fantastic and friendly team, why not give the Centre a call and come up and meet us and see how you can help. And of course, you can always help by supporting our fund raising activities or giving us a donation. Please see our website for details.

Website: www.shelleyrda.com Telephone: 01473 824172

Layham Village Hall

2. A Christmas coffee morning took place at the home of the Club President. There were mince pies and cake to go with the coffee and again everyone enjoyed themselves – many thanks Graham and Jo for hosting this.

Layham Village Hall

Contact details

Secretary – Mrs Jan McNelly 07767 136198 or 01473 871043

Bookings for Hall Hire – Mrs Christine Hempstead 01473 810171 hempstead91@hotmail.com.

3. Moving on to the New Year, the Club’s traditional Champagne Brunch took place at The George Hintlesham. Again, members and partners enjoyed the hospitality of The George and thanks go to all the staff.

FUTURE PLANS: It is hoped to hold more events this year but it will depend on how much help the Club can find to supplement the small membership. Of course it would be great if help turned in to new membership especially as one of our longstanding members has had to resign through ill health. The Club is very sorry to lose Hazel Cooley who has been a loyal and hardworking member for a number of years. We will miss you, Hazel.

It costs just £10 per hour to hire the hall and this includes tables, chairs, use of kitchen and all facilities for 70 persons.

Social Club

The Club has settled at Cobblers and meets on 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month for lunch 12.45pm for 1pm. A coffee morning is held once a month also at Cobblers usually on the 1st Tuesday at 11am. If you would like to attend one of these or find out more about your local Rotary Club please contact David 01473 827226.

Members wish all readers a Very Happy New Year.

We meet from 10 am to 12 pm at Layham Village Hall on the first and third Mondays of the month. There is a small charge of £2 for refreshments and hall hire. Everyone is welcome.

Next Meetings: Please note that there is no meeting on May 4 as it is a bank holiday.

Stour Valley u3a

May 18: Steve Everitt from the RSPB will give a talk entitled, ‘The Seventy Fifth  Anniversary of Minsmere’

UKRAINE APPEAL

Make the most of life once you’re no longer in full time work and come and explore new ideas, interests and skills with University of the Third Age. Across the country U3A members are meeting new people, learning, staying active, and having fun later in life. It’s local, social, friendly, low cost and open to all. We have over 40 interest groups including walking – from strollers to 5+ milers – theatre trips, garden visits, art appreciation, curry club, science group, languages, keep fit, pickleball, overseas travel .......... there’s something for everyone.

Following the compelling and moving talk by David Jacobs on his efforts to get aid to Ukraine, I am pleased to say we have raised over £420 for his appeal. Thank you to all who gave so generously. If anyone could not make the evening but would like to contribute, you can put cash donations (marked UKRAINE) through Glenda and Ed’s letter box at Mill House or mine at Butterfly Hall. The money raised will go towards buying a 4x4 which will be converted into an ambulance and driven to the front line. Donations of torches and batteries, generators and power tools. New comfortable clothing such as track suits can be dropped off at the back of St Andrew’s church.

Thank you

Sallie Jervois

Monthly coffee mornings are held on the first Friday of the month 10am –12pm at the Lambe School, East Bergholt. Come along, meet some members, hear more about us and decide whether you’d like to join. Monthly lectures are held on the second Wednesday at 2pm in the Constable Hall, East Bergholt. Guests are welcome for a charge of £4. Our speaker on 14th February is Dr Tobias Capwell, curator of arms and armour at The Wallace Collection (hopefully modelling some armour) and on 13th March we have Bonny Williams “Your individual carbon footprint and why it matters”. Please take a look at our website www.u3asites.org.uk/stourvalley for more information and contact details.

News from RDA Shelley

RDA participants who visit The Shelley Centre mostly attend for therapeutic riding sessions, whether that’s on one of our RDAassessed horses and ponies or on Ebony the mechanical horse. But the therapy that contact with equines can give goes much further than riding.

Now The Shelley Centre is launching two new activities that we hope will interest those unable to ride but who would still benefit from having contact with horses and ponies.

Tea with A Pony is an opportunity for those living with long term conditions such as dementia to come to the centre, with their carer and interact with Chocolate, our Miniature Shetland pony. By meeting and bonding with Chocolate in a safe environment the aim is to reconnect with happy memories. The sessions will take place on a Tuesday afternoon during term time and must be pre-booked. It’s suitable for individuals or small groups and includes tea and cake with the pony at a distance, as well as time to stroke and meet Chocolate or one of the other ponies.

Another new activity at The Shelley Centre is Quiet Corner. This is an enriching alternative for individual participants who prefer a more gentle way to spend time with horses. It’s a ground based activity in a calm, low-pressure, supportive space. Participants can relax, build confidence and find comfort through touch, gentle movement and quiet time.

These sessions will be run by a qualified RDA Activity Leader at the centre. These are volunteers who have undertaken additional training in safeguarding, disability awareness and equine knowledge. They are then approved in the role by an RDA Coach and our Trustees. One of the recently-qualified Activity Leaders is Corinne Bundy who has been involved with The Shelley Centre for 33 years and has carried out many volunteer roles including fundraising and care of our horses as well as being involved with riding sessions.

Corinne said: “I’m looking forward to re-starting the Tea with A Pony sessions with Cherry Crawford who is another Activity Leader and launching for the first time our Quiet Corner sessions. We are offering Quiet Corner as a series of sessions over half a term to allow people to build up confidence and familiarity with the ponies and to help overcome anxiety. The participant will guide the pace and the level of interaction according to their self-confidence and self-esteem.”

To find out more about how to book a place on one of these sessions please phone the centre on 01473 824172 and leave a message or visit our website www.shelleyrda.com.

ST MARY’S RENEWAL

A COMMUNITY PROJECT

Key: RT - Renewal Team. CIL - Community Infrastructure

Levy. DAC - Diocesan Advisory Committee.

Grants Update: We had some very good news in that we were successful in our grant application to The Belstead Galzoni Settlement. They awarded us £5,000. However, we can’t win ‘em all. We were turned down by the Suffolk Communities Foundation.

Screen: Whilst we are still awaiting Faculty approval for the fixed and permanent screen, all efforts are being made to get the £19,720 costs for supply and installation secured. We have approached The Benefact Trust for a grant. We will also use the reserves we have from previous projects.

Lighting: The Faculty for the much needed illumination of the aisles is awaiting the approval of the DAC. This Faculty, which will be subject to some minor amendments, will enable the work to proceed. Our tenders for the whole lighting project came in far higher than anticipated. Quotes are now starting at £97,000 plus VAT so this is going to be a much harder challenge for the Renewal Team.

Heritage Lottery Fund: The important news is that, via Tricolor Associates, we have submitted a Project Enquiry Form to the Sub £250,000 National Lottery Heritage Fund. We have combined our enquiry for funds for the ‘war chest’ we need for a major lottery bid but also £66,000 to help fund the lighting project.

The Font Cover: Moving a Church fitting which has been in place for over hundred years was no mean undertaking, not least dealing with the counterbalance buried in the Belfry.

A group of sturdy parishioners successfully gently lowered the carved piece onto a trolley and carefully wheeled it to its new resting place near the entrance. A new display in the Church gives a pictorial account of its relocation together with information about the Font Cover.

Sunday 10th May at 2.30 pm

Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) and Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Hard Truths) feature in a five-star, triumphantly acclaimed new production of Arthur Miller’s blistering post-war classic. £14 (cash or card) on the door. Or book in advance via Ticketsource: search for Ansell Centre. Doors open at 2pm There will be a short interval and bar

Friday 22nd May at 7.30 pm

THE LIFE OF CHUCK

The film’s plot follows the formative moments in the life of Charles “Chuck” Krantz, told in reverse chronological order. Based on the novel by Stephen King and starring Tom Hiddlestone. £4.50 (cash) on the door. Doors open at 7pm

There will be a short interval for refreshments.

Please note that we normally show subtitles to make our cinema an inclusive venue for those who are hearing impaired.

Coffee and Company: If you’re looking for friendly company, Café Church is the place to be on a Friday morning. You can also enjoy some tasty light refreshments or spoil your palette with one of Andrew’s delicious bacon rolls. There is also an opportunity to bring any local concerns you may have to a member of the Town Council. On 1st Friday of every month craft market stalls line the centre aisle. They are laden with a tempting mix of locally made crafts, food and bric a brac. Other family orientated get togethers are advertised in the colourful St Mary’s entry elsewhere in this magazine. Come and support the Church and enjoy all that St Mary’s has to offer.

David Hoyle (Donations) davidhoyle1967@gmail.com.

Emma Fleming-Ovens office@stmaryshadleigh.co.uk 01473 824 987

Jess Janas (Craft Stalls) jessicanevard@btinternet.com 01473 822 671

Church Website stmaryshadleigh.co.uk

Hadleigh Art Club Summer Exhibition

We are holding an exhibition of our work on 6th & 7th June 2026 at Hadleigh Library in the upstairs Seminar room

Open 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily

It will be an exhibition of our original work Some works will be for sale and any sales will be cash only

We look forward to seeing you

St Mary’s Church, Hadleigh 29th, 30th & 31st May 10am - 4pm A collection of art created by local people

HADLEIGH PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP (PPG)

The column may look the same but the info varies each month so please take time to read on.

Anima: Did you know that Anima is now linked to the NHS app? You can log into the app and request an appointment with the surgery. www.nhs.uk/nhs-app. Concerned about folks without access to Anima? There is no need to be as they can still call the Practice. However, if you use Anima you help reduce the number of phone calls each day and free up the lines for others.

IT Help: Once a month Communities Together offer helpful IT advice in the upstairs room of the Hadleigh Library. The next session will take place on Tuesday 5th May from 10 a.m to 12 noon. Booking is essential as places are limited. Call Tracey 01449 707031 or email info@communitiestogether-ea.org

RSV Jabs: Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a common cause of coughs and colds. RSV vaccine is available for all patients aged 80 and over. This is a one off vaccine. Eligible patients will be contacted in May. They will be invited to attend a weekly clinic every Wednesday morning until all appropriate patients have been called.

Out of Hours Doctor: Need a doctor when the Hadleigh Health Centre is closed, including weekends, call 111 for advice and details of your nearest ‘out of hours’ duty doctor or visit www.111.nhs.uk

Unwanted Medical Equipment:

Please be aware that unwanted medical equipment cannot be used by the Practice or returned to the original suppliers. On several occasions, wellmeaning patients, have left items outside the front door of the Health Centre leaving members of the Practice to dispose of the items.

Pharmacy First: The Pharmacy First scheme is an NHS initiative designed to offer professional healthcare advice and treatment for seven common illnesses e.g. shingles, sore throats, ear infections, impetigo, sinusitis UTIs (under 65s only) and infected bites.

The Patient Car Park: You are kindly reminded that these spaces are for the convenience of patients with a medical appointment or who are collecting medicine from the Pharmacy inside the Practice. It should not be used for any other purpose.

Toppesfield Car Park: This is a metered public car park administered by Babergh Council. However, if you have a medical appointment or collecting a prescription from the Health Centre, providing you enter your car registration details in the machine inside the Health Centre, you do not need to pay. This is valid for two hours.

Boxford Community Car Scheme: This service is available for patients needing transport to hospital or Health Centre appointments. Contact Jen Eastwood on 01787 211 853 or jen. eastwood8@gmail.com

Website: www.hadleighhealth.co.uk

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Hadleigh-Boxford-Group-Practice

PPG Chair/ Art Work: Jan Devey deveys@btinternet.com 01473 827091 or 07881 798999

Health Centre 01473 822 961

Council support at Hadleigh Library

Babergh District Council offer a faceto-face service at Hadleigh library every Wednesday from 1.30pm to 4.30 pm. Staff are on hand to support with uploading and submitting documents, completing online applications, reporting issues, or requesting repairs, setting up direct debits, making online payments and more. No appointment required – simply drop in

Open Call for creatives

A Celebration of Angels at St Mary's Church, Hadleigh 29 - 31 May is an exhibition for all creatives to show their interpretation of angels in all media 2D and 3D.

All display items should be Deliverd to the church 3-7pm on Wednesday 27 May. 20% of sales go to St Mary's Church.  Please can all 2D work be framed for hanging or mounted and wrapped in cello film.

1st SUNDAY OF THE MONTH APRIL TO OCTOBER www.wattishamstationheritage.org

1st Sunday of the Month April to October

To book visit website: www.wattishamstationheritage.org

HADLEIGH COMMUNITY FORUM

No 69 - Tuesday 14 April 2026

CHAIR: Wendy Brame Notes: Jess Janas

1 WELCOME: The Chair welcomed everyone.

2 REPORT OF THE LAST MEETING: The Notes were accepted.

3 STANDARD UPDATES

3.1 POLICE STATEMENT

PC Johnson sent in a report for the meeting and all information will be in his regular column in this publication.

3.2 St MARYS CHURCH

Community engagement is taking place by our consultants, Tricolor, in connection with our £4.5m bid from the NLHF. Initially a smaller bid will go in for which we are gathering Letters of Support and Volunteer Surveys to demonstrate our due diligence. Please complete the survey which can be found in church. For those with smart phones there is a QR code in the St Mary’s Renewal column of the Community News, also on the St Mary’s Facebook Page. It will really help us reach our goals.

29 May – 1 June “Angels” art exhibition in St Mary’s showcasing Hazel Bradshaw’s studio, local schools and art groups, FroGs & Y7Up? and Pop-Up children, and individual contributions. Painting exhibits must be framed (a simple mount will do). Crafts, sculptures, pottery – all welcomed. Items may be sold with a 20% donation to the church to cover church costs and towards tree(s) replacement in the churchyard.

Regular Dates for the Diary: (for further info, contact Emma at: office@stmaryshadleigh.co.uk )

Café Church: Every Friday 9.30 am – 12 noon with optional Eucharist at 10am.

St Mary’s Craft Market:

• Every First Friday of the month (except January & Good Friday). To book a table,

• email jessicanevard@btinternet.com. June market on Saturday 6 June (not Friday 5 June) in support of Hidden Gardens of Hadleigh.

• FroGs & Y7Up?: Every Friday (term time) 3.45 pm –5.15 pm for all primary-school age & Y7Up? For years 7+

• Pop Ups: In term time, every second Wednesday 2.30 pm -5 pm. In school hols, every Weds 12 noon – 2 pm

3.3 PPG - (Hadleigh & Boxford Patient Participation Group)

A report was given to the meeting, the full version of which can be found in the PPG’s monthly column in the Hadleigh Community News.

3.4 VISIT HADLEIGH

• Visit Hadleigh website: www.visithadleighsuffolk.co.uk

Promotion of town events is free of charge. Advance listings can be made on receipt of text details plus a poster or picture (which must be submitted) as these greatly enhance listings. This is a good place to check for, and avoid, event dates clashing. Contact snowdonjane@hotmail.co.uk

• Town Guides: for clarity and to manage expectations, a Guided Walk will be outside and a Guided Tour will be inside.

The Met office has been asked to update their weather icons every hour as research has shown that 70% of visits are determined by the predicted weather.

3.5 BABERGH & MID SUFFOLK DISTRICT COUNCIL (BDC/MS)

Sadly, this is Imogen Tink’s final meeting for a while as she goes on maternity leave. She will be very much missed and everyone wishes her well. All enquiries for funding will be handled through the grants team. For full details, all enquiries and questions, contact bmsdcgrants@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk

• Local Government Reorganisation: It has been announced by the Government that three unitary councils will be created in Suffolk. East Babergh (including Hadleigh) will be included with Ipswich and the Shotley Peninsular, while Sudbury will join West Suffolk. New names for councils are yet to be confirmed.

• Recycling/Waste Changes: Information packs, including an instruction leaflet on what to put in which bin, a collection calendar and a FAQ booklet, will be delivered to each house by w/c 11 May. Deliveries of new bins is w/c 18 May. A roll of compostable bags for the inside food caddy will also be

delivered. Anyone requiring to use bags after this, will have to buy their own. However, it should be noted that any food put in these bags will have to be removed by the waste teams, so there seems little point in going to the trouble of purchasing compostable bags, particularly as food waste will be collected weekly.

• LIDL: The Planning Committee will be discussing this application on 20 May. Comments can be made until 19 May in two ways: direct to the Babergh Planning site, quoting reference DC/24/05236. Alternatively, send any comments by email to jessicanevard@btinternet.com (before 18 May) who will forward them to the relevant person. Please make it clear whether you are “for” or “against” the application.

• New Bus Service: Hadleigh/Stowmarket: No. 51. Starts 13 April. Initially, Monday to Friday (not Bank Hols). Two-hourly from Hadleigh Bus Station from 7am to 5pm routing Hadleigh, Bildeston, Hitcham. Gt Finborough, Stowmarket Rail Station. Last bus back from Stowmarket at 5.40pm. Full timetable and route map: https://www.konectbuses.co.uk

3.6 TOGETHER TUESDAY

The TT report was circulated outlining all the recent activities, confirming that face to face talks on a variety of relevant subjects are very beneficial and very well received. The planned monthly talks will be on the third Monday of each month in the afternoon, in the Guildhall (see HTC’s report below).

There is a new apprentice working with the group and TT was reminded that the Arthur Gaell Apprenticing Foundation was there to offer grants to apprentices living in the IP7 postcode. Anyone having finished education and entering employment, or undergoing training within employment, may apply. Please email jessicanevard@btinternet.com for more information or an application form. We have money to give away !

Anyone with a little time to spare who would like to consider volunteering their help, or if there is an activity or talk you could share with the group, contact jill.mason@acleisure.com

3.7

HADLEIGH TOWN COUNCIL (HTC):

• Grants Budget 25/26 £20k is now available. Details and criteria can be found on HTC’s website: https://hadleightowncouncil. gov.uk/grants-donations

• Councillors: Two councillor vacancies. Nominations/ applications will be accepted from mid/late May.

• Mayor’s fund-raising Quiz, Friday 15 May in the evening at the Town Hall. Tickets from Jackie in the office.

• C-a-f-e Talks: This idea came from Jill Mason & Glenn Abbassi at the Community Forum, and the first four talks have been funded by HTC. If successful, further funding may be sought. Coffee, tea and biscuits will be available on arrival. These will be advertised by posters, on Facebook, the Town Council website, in the Community News and there will be leaflets handed out at events/clubs in Hadleigh.

3.8 HEAT (Hadleigh Environmental Action Team).

• The River Brett Festival planning group is going well. Email info@brettfest.org.uk to get involved.

• Hadleigh Show, 16 May: HEAT has a “Life on the Edge” exhibition.

• As part of the river festival, HEAT is restarting the river testing programme from Shelley to Chelsworth.

• A bunting workshop is planned for 10.30 am -12.30 pm in the Leisure Centre on Sunday 24 May. Come and help ! For general information about HEAT, email hadleigh.heat@hotmail.com

5 A O B

Jan Devey raised, again, the appalling state of the Toppesfield car park, where work by BDC is “in hand” but has been needed for far too long and still nothing has been done.

Jane Snowdon informed the Forum that the RNLI is raising funds by asking people to collect 5p pieces in miniature jam jars, which if requested, they will provide. Everyone is encouraged to join in this initiative. Filled jars can be given to Jane Snowdon (who promises not to open a holiday fund !)

Jo Delfgou encouraged everyone to go out and vote on Thursday 7 May.

The meeting closed at 17.16pm

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday 12 May 2026 @ 4:15pm.

Hadleigh Pool & Leisure, Social Room. ALL WELCOME

Chair: Rickaby Shearly Sanders

Hadleigh Community Transport

461/462 Bus Service

Hadleigh Villages & Stowmarket

Hadleigh Community Transport would like to assure passengers that the 461 and 462 services are still fully operational and have not been cancelled or replaced by any other services.

This scheduled service operates Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday except on Bank Holidays. No service on Wednesdays Bus passes are accepted after 9.30 am and we only accept cash for paying passengers

Please note that for safety reasons we cannot accommodate large four wheeled shopping trolleys, walkers or wheelchairs unless they fold flat

Below is a brief summary of the service. For further information please call Hadleigh Community Transport office on 01473 826242 or ask one our drivers for a timetable.

Full details can also be found online at Suffolk Onboard.com

Early Section. - Whatfield to Hadleigh Starting at Wheatfields, Whatfield 9.15 am to Hadleigh via Elmsett & Aldham and arriving Hadleigh, Magdalen Road 9.30 am

HadleighTown Loop 9-30 am Magdalen Road, Tayler Road, Edwin Panks Road, Hadleigh High School, Station Road, Wentworth Close, Buckenham Road, Glanville Road, Woodthorpe Road, Station Road, Magdalen Road Bus Stop.

Hadleigh to Stowmarket. Depart Magdalen Road 9.50 am and arrive Stowmarket by Argos, Ipswich Street 10.30 am.

Stowmarket to Hadleigh Depart by Argos in Ipswich Street at 1240 pm and arrive back in Hadleigh 1.30 pm.

Monday & Thursday route is via Bildeston, Hitcham, Buxhall & Great Finborough. Route 461

Tuesday & Friday route is via Whatfield, Nedging, Great Bricett, Ringshall, Battisford & Combs. Route 462

Hadleigh Town Loop 1-30 pm. Route same as at 9.30 am.

Final Section – Hadleigh to Whatfield (By Request) Depart Magdalen Road 1.50 pm to Whatfield via Aldham & Elmsett

Interested in Woodturning ?

...then Chestnuts Woodturning Club in Hadleigh is the place for you !

Chestnuts is a well established club in Hadleigh, meeting every third Thursday of the month throughout the year. We gather in the community room of the Hadleigh United Reformed Church at 7.30pm. (please ring number below in case of late changes)

Approximately every alternative month we have visiting demonstrators or club members helping to increase or improve our techniques and to provide inspiration for future projects. You are very welcome to join us whether you are just interested and not yet a turner, are a “learner” or an experienced turner there will be something for you. Come and see what you think with no obligation.

Our forthcoming programme for the next three months is:

• 21st May, Our own Bob Southgate, always interesting, always entertaining!

• 18th June, Tic Challis, pyrography and so much more!

• 16th July, Steve Kerwell, a beautifully decorated dish

We are a friendly bunch and look forward to welcoming you soon. For more information, please contact Geoff Harris on 01473 828194

HADLEIGH UNITED REFORMED CHURCH

Update from Hadleigh u3a

Visit to Kelvedon Hatch Nuclear Bunker.

This was quite an experience, especially considering the way the world is at the moment. It was amazing just how deep we went, so slowly that the realisation did not dawn on us until we were at the bottom and literally looked up. Quite claustrophobic! The vast communications set up now seems dated although in the sixties and seventies it was probably state of the art. Significant resources were dedicated to food storage, clean water, administering to natural functions and cleaning the air. However, the bunker apparently only had enough supplies for three months, after which... I suppose the most gruesome fact was the disposal of dead bodies, which would have to be folded up in order to save space. The small shop, doubling as a cafe, sold some interesting memorabilia.

Tour of Ipswich Tudor and Victorian sites. So you think you know Ipswich? This visit certainly opened our eyes as to the hidden and not so hidden corners of Ipswich, one of the oldest inhabited towns in England. And we only covered a small part of the town centre: the mediaeval churches, the Tudor (and mock Tudor) buildings and the overall street pattern that has hardly changed over a thousand years. Probably most impressive was the Victorian development with quite spectacular archways created by the need to open up the town. Our thanks go to the Ipswich Institute not only for organising the excellent guides but for providing a splendid tea at the end of the tour.

Recent speakers at our monthly talks included an eye opening presentation on Lee Miller, best known as one of the few women war photographers. However, that part of her life only scratched the surface of an astonishing lifestyle, probably dominated by some awful childhood experiences, as well as a determination to succeed in whatever she chose to do in a masculine dominated world. She certainly was some lady. Looking ahead, our presentation in May is entitled “Knickers: a History of Women’s Underwear”. It is amazing just how much history can be uncovered by focusing on a seemingly obscure subject.

Forthcoming visits include trips to Wimpole, Bressingham, the Theatre in the Forest (Twelfth Night) and a trip to Southwold to see ‘The Impotance of Being Earnest’.

If you are interested in joining Hadleigh u3a, or simply want to get in touch, please check out our website: hadleigh-suffolk.u3asite.uk

Lucinda A. Salway DO Registered Osteopath

Tel: 07818 420029

French’s Care Haven

Elmsett and Aldham Community Indoor Market

Firstly can I thank everyone who has supported me over the last 10 months to enable the Indoor Market to run smoothly, and to those who came to enjoy the fabulous home-made refreshments provided by: St Peter’s Church, Whatfield School, Semer Church, Elmsett ECO group, Wattisham Military Wives Choir and Elmsett School PTA - raising funds for their own projects around the area. Thanks also to those who have recycled and refilled with us, and bought goods from our very talented hand crafters. I do hope you have enjoyed the wonderful atmosphere that was created and for caring about your community.

Over the year, the monies collected on the community plant, produce, and recycle craft stalls totalled £314.58 and this money went directly to the hospice head office via the lovely ladies on the St Elizabeth Hospice stall. The difference between the income from stall holders and the costs of the hall and advertising totalled £700 and this was donated online to the hospice before Christmas (plus gift aid). The week I sent it off there was an offer from local Ipswich businesses to match any donations made, so £1,575.00 went to an amazing cause, very close to my family’s hearts and many others who benefit from the hospice’s wonderful care.

Hello to all our readers, I hope as always you have been keeping well. Lady is in our photo this month, enjoying the sunshine, she is a sweet little girl with lovely blond locks of hair that she is happy to have brushed when she is being groomed. I had a nice chap Colin message me regarding needing help when we move, finally someone is offering to give some us a hand, I need more people like Colin, to come forward and offer their time. We are hoping to move in May, if everything goes to plan with the solicitors. Frenchs will be staying local and only a 10 minute drive from where we are now, woohoo, what a relief and as I say fingers crossed if we can get this over the line in May I will put our new address on our website, facebook and of course in this magazine. As well as anyone who can help us move and set what we have back up at our new home, locals will be welcome to make an appointment day/time with me to come and visit and see how our animals are adjusting to the move. I am sure they would love a groom and cuddle if you are happy to give them some TLC.

I would also like to thank the Wattisham Military Wives Choir who gave up their time to come and sing for us, and get us into the festive spirit. Beautiful singing ladies.

I would also very much like to find someone to join or possibly head our fundraising team, looking at what different events we could hold and add some new ideas. Please contact me if you would like to come on board with us and become part of our team.

I am planning for the community Indoor Markets to continue on the second Saturday of each month in some shape or form. This year any monies made will be given to Cancer Research UK (CRUK) –another much valued and crucial charity needing support.

I am still in need of a company who does groundwork, if you own or know of a different type of business that would sponsor/help with our set up, that would be brilliant. I will be going back on BBC Suffolk radio and in East Anglia Daily Times, as well as our website and Face book page when we have our land in place, I will be happy to promote your business in return for your help. We have opened a Go Fund me page to try and raise some much needed monies for the move, as it is going to be a huge financial challenge and we really need local support. To find us go onto Google and put in gofundme-urgent-appeal-relocation – support. Or go onto our website and go through our PayPal.

We will be back on Saturday 9th March 2024 with a full market, refreshments, refills and recycling. Mothering Sunday and Easter cards and gifts will be a focus. The other 2024 dates for your diary will be: 13th April, 11th May, 8th June, 13th July, 10th August, 14th September, 12th October, 9th November, 14th December. Although we have beautiful crafts made by very talented local crafters, it was felt that we should scale the crafters markets down to every other month. In the interim months we will still provide community refreshments and a warm meeting place, with just a few stalls more focused on food and refills, and of course the recycling. I have already had a request to run a plant stall too which is wonderful, but if anyone has any contacts for food stalls, please get in touch. I am also looking for groups or individuals to run the refreshments (profits to their own charity) or indeed have a craft stall on the bigger markets. Please contact me on 07712424901 or email me on King4kings@aol.com if you would like to help in any way. Please, if you are a supporter of your community, spread the word and encourage others to come along.

“TREAT”

Are you looking for a colourful and creative space to relax, make friends and have some fun?

Jan King

I am personally looking forward to the day I do not have to constantly beg for help and donations, honestly if you were in my shoes trying to keep our wonderful charity going, you would be mentally and physically drained like I am. I pray for the time to come that someone gives our dear animals and all the people we help that have mental health problems and those elderly who have been lonely and lost purpose until they come to Frenchs, some financial security for my charity to keep going into the future, so that I can relax and enjoy my time at the farm, instead of constantly worrying. Call, Jann on: 07747755556 or email: jann.turner@ hotmail.co.uk Website: Frenchscare haven.org.uk

Treat is a Retreat for adults with learning disabilities / neurodivergent and their guests where everyone can enjoy creative, social and leisure activities. Set in the heart of the Suffolk countryside guests will have sole use of the facilities, including bespoke accommodation, swimming pool and dining/social area. A full timetable of day time activities will be on offer including dancing for wellbeing, sound bath and meditation sessions and wellbeing walks. In the evening an entertainment programme will offer quizzes, games, firepit meals and an interactive theatre performance. In addition to the timetable a fully equipped and staffed art space will be accessible throughout the week alongside areas for quiet activity and moments of calm.

All My Sons

Hadleigh Rugby Club

It has been an incredible season for the club’s 1st XV team who were officially crowned Eastern Counties Division 1 Champions for the 2025/2026 season after clinching the title on 11th April. It marked a significant milestone for the club in front of a packed home crowd at Layham Road Sports Ground. A monumental achievement and one that everyone associated with Hadleigh RFC should be immensely proud of. Additionally, the girls’ U12s and U14s had an amazing season. The U12s, for the second successive year, had a team in the Eastern Counties Conference League and the first ever group of U14s, who clustered with Bury St Edmunds to form the Panthers, finished the season as Eastern Counties Cup Winners. The girls have gone from strength to strength and there are exciting times ahead as the club aims for its own U12s and U14s girls’ side next season.

Other highlights of the year included playing at London’s premier rugby club, Saracens, and flag bearers for the women’s match, attending the Barker’s Butts festival in Coventry and having their photo taken with the World Cup Trophy. Girls from all age groups were inspired after a coaching session with local England’s Red Roses hooker, Connie Powell.

The club also enjoyed a fantastic year of high-quality rugby across both the boys mini and youth sections. We will be welcoming new players of all abilities, with guaranteed game time, excellent coaching and a strong team spirit in September.

Hadleigh RFC is grateful to everyone involved at the club for their tireless work, commitment and passion – the sponsors who provided essential funding for kit and equipment; the players who gave their all on the pitch week in, week out; the coaches for their guidance; the volunteers whether on or off the field and the supporters for their constant encouragement – all absolutely vital to the success of the club.

Rugby has huge benefits for personal, social and sporting skills and you do not need to know how to play rugby as we have great coaches to help. So get in touch and be part of a thriving and ambitious club and we hope to see you for the start of the 2026-27 season in September.

Visit hadleighrfc.rfu.club for team news and fixture dates. Hadleigh RFC, Layham Road Sports Ground, Layham Road, Hadleigh IP7 5NE

Hadleigh Cricket Club

We just have the first day of the new season to report on this month – both games against Mistley.

At home the 1st XI secured an encouraging 41win run, with Tom Piddington’s side having to work hard but taking plenty of positives from the game. The outfield and square looked in immaculate condition, and there was plenty in it for the Mistley bowlers at first, with Hadleigh finding themselves 140-7 at one stage. However, even with losing a few players over the winter, this is still one of the longest batting line ups in the league, and Ben Wallis completely changed the course of the innings, hitting several huge sixes as he made his way to 76 not out. Kyle Tanner, at no. 10, gave him great support, and Hadleigh also profited from Mistley’s slow over rate, with 5 penalty runs added to the total of 265-8.   While Mistley’s openers initially looked comfortable, Hadleigh kept chipping away and Tanner made the important early breakthroughs. Hadleigh have a wealth of spin bowling options this year, to the extent that Ainsley Ndlovu even took the new ball, but it was Lovejeet Singh’s miserly spell of seven overs for just nine runs that really put the brakes on, and Mistley never quite kept up with the required rate.

The 2nds narrowly lost their opener at Mistley. The home team looked to be cruising towards their target of 155, but a fantastic spell of bowling from 14-year-old Harry Alexander almost turned the game. Harry took 4-20 as Mistley stumbled from 125-3 and 150-6 to only sneaking home by 1 wicket in the end.

Gary Wiles

Hadleigh Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub Launches at Hadleigh Show

A new chapter for community support begins this May as the Hadleigh Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub officially launches at the Hadleigh Show on 16th May (row B Stand location 13).

Founded by local resident, Army veteran, and suicide prevention advocate Trevor Bygate, the Hub is a community driven initiative built on compassion, connection, and action. Its purpose is simple but powerful: to ensure that no individual, child, or family in Hadleigh faces mental health challenges alone.

The Hub provides a safe, inclusive space where people can access support, share experiences, and find pathways to recovery. From mental health resources and bereavement support to creative and wellbeing activities, the project is designed to evolve with the needs of the community.

A Mission Built on Lived Experience Following the devastating loss of his daughter Chloe to suicide, Trevor has dedicated his life to supporting others, working with organisations such as PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide and Cruse Bereavement Support. Now, through the Hub, that mission is expanding.

The long-term vision is to fund urgent psychiatric assessments and proven therapies such as CBT, EMDR and NLP, helping vulnerable children, young people and adults access support far quicker than current waiting times allow. With CAMHS waiting lists often stretching from six months to two years, this work is critical.

A Community Effort The Hub has already received incredible local support, enabling the purchase of a purpose-built gazebo that will

be on display at the Hadleigh Show.

Visitors are warmly encouraged to come along, where there will be:

• Time to chat openly about mental health and wellbeing

• Opportunities to learn about the Hub’s mission and future plans

• Ways to get involved, volunteer, or collaborate

• A raffle with some fantastic prizes to support fundraising efforts

• This is more than a launch event. It is the beginning of something that aims to transform how support is accessed across Hadleigh and surrounding villages.

Looking Ahead As a newly registered Community Interest Company, the Hub is now focused on building sustainable funding through grants, events, and community donations. Future plans include delivering Mental Health First Aid and ASIST suicide prevention training, equipping local people, organisations, and schools with the skills to save lives.

The Hub is not just a service. It is a movement, shaped by the community, for the community.

How You Can Support If you would like to support the Hadleigh Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub, donations can be made via the official JustGiving page: Crowdfunding to our JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/trevor-bygate-1 You can also donate quickly using the QR code below:

A Final Word This is just the start.

A start of giving people the support they deserve.

A start of bringing a community together with purpose. A start of ensuring hope is always within reach.

Come and meet us at the Hadleigh Show on 16th May. Be part of something that truly matters.

Trevor Bygate Founder / Director Hadleigh Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub Email - hadleighmhwhub@aol.com

ST MARY’S CHURCH, HADLEIGH

office@stmaryshadleigh.co.uk 01473 824 987

St Mary’s Church is open every

day.

The church is a beautiful and peaceful space, and you are most welcome to visit.

Service

Times

Sundays: 8am BCP Eucharist 10.45am Eucharist Tuesday: 11am Row Chapel

Matins (BCP) Friday: 10am Eucharist with Café Church 9.30am12pm and ‘St Mary’s Market’ on the first Friday of each month (except January)

ANGEL EXHIBITION ~ From Friday 29th May to 1st June the Church is hosting an exhibition of all things Angels! Paintings, drawings & sculptures of interpretations of Angels, some of which will be available to buy. If you would like to exhibit something (for sale or not) please contact the Benefice office.

POP-UP AT ST MARY’S ~ May dates are Wednesday 13th 2.30pm-5.00pm & 27th 12pm2pm (12pm-2pm sessions & 3.30pm onwards is reserved for children and their carers only). Free food, drink and activities for all. Would you like to help in some way? Please come along and have a chat with the team!

Please see the Church notice boards for information on this month’s services or search us on “A Church Near You” website.

The Benefice Office at St Mary’s is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 10-12 noon. Our Administrator is Mrs Emma Fleming-Ovens.

Ainger Holbrows Ltd

Hadleigh Hares’ News

We were delighted to take part once again in the Suffolk Road Relays on 22 March at the Northern Gateway Sports Park. It’s always a fantastic event, bringing together many local clubs for a great morning of racing. Teams consist of three runners, each completing three laps of the approximately 3-mile course, with the Men’s Open running four laps.

It was especially wonderful to field an Under 11s team this year, with Dylan McDonald, Freya McDonald and Eira McDonald all putting in brilliant performances. In the junior races, our girls team of Aderyn McDonald (running twice) and Elsie Price ran superbly against strong competition to secure an excellent third place. The boys team of Joel Farmer, Felix Clover and Aidan Green also gave a fantastic account of themselves.

The seniors turned out in force, with teams across multiple age categories. In the ladies’ races, the V40 team of Lucy Jay, Geraldine Suckling and Elaine Turner finished 3rd, the V50 team of Nathalie Hooper, Sarah Watkins and Jo Sargent achieved a brilliant 2nd place, and the V60 team of Barbara Jousiffe, Belinda Godbold and Anne Herbert also secured 2nd.

The men’s teams matched this success, with the Open team of Tom Cowley, Kevin Long (running twice) and Kevin Carpenter finishing 3rd. The V40 team, featuring Rob Taylor (also running twice) and Andrew Turner, also took 3rd place, while the V60 team of Richard Cowley, David Godbold and Andrew Cross achieved an excellent 2nd.

For a small club, these results are something to be incredibly proud of. More than that, the camaraderie, encouragement and support shown to all runners and to fellow clubsmade it a truly special day, with everyone leaving smiling.

On the 29th March, Sonia Bates and Edmund Murphey took on the Brandon Country Park Half Marathon, organised by Zig Zag Running, in the heart of Thetford Forest.

The course was made up of four laps of a 5.3 km route, weaving its way through the forest and offering a real mix of terrain. Runners were kept on their toes with long, steady inclines, sandy stretches, uneven dirt tracks and plenty of tree roots underfoot, all set against the backdrop of some stunning scenery. For Sonia, this marked her first half marathon, and she rose to the challenge brilliantly. She described the course as both enjoyable and demanding, with the varied terrain making it a true test from start to finish, making it a fantastic and memorable debut over the distance.

Edmund also embraced the challenge of the multi-lap course, enjoying both the variety and the supportive atmosphere throughout. Crossing the finish line in 2:22 was a great achievement, comfortably beating his initial target of finishing under 2:30. The event itself was well organised, with a great sense of community among runners, and to top it all off, finishers were rewarded with a medal, along with a well-earned free slice of cake and a coffee at the end.

Good Friday saw the return of the annual Sudbury 5 mile Fun Run, though its challenging hills mean some may question just how “fun” it really is. Representing the club were Andrew Turner, Elaine Turner, Ben Roper, Glen Avis, Andrew Cross and John Turnbull, all taking on the demanding course with determination.

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Elaine, who has been in excellent form this year, delivered a standout performance, crossing the line in an impressive 36:26 and securing a well-earned personal best.

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12 April and another busy Sunday of racing kicked off with the Brighton Marathon. This is a course that demands disciplined pacing over the early miles, with four notable climbs before mile 11. Eleanor Langbridge Brown, Steve Hunt and Stuart Price all rose to the challenge and completed the marathon with strong performances. Emma Calver took on the 10K, which follows the Brighton seafront and passes many of the city’s well-known landmarks. Conditions weren’t easy, with a stiff wind adding to the challenge, but everyone ran superbly.

CHIMNEY SWEEP

Further afield, Kev Long travelled to Lincolnshire for the Boston Marathon, a flat and fast road marathon. All his hard work this year paid off as he completed his first marathon in an outstanding time of 3:07.

Marcus Webb BOOKINGS: 07780 834551

Closer to home, Nathalie Hooper took on the Colne Engaine 5 Mile Fun Run finishing 1st in her age category. This undulating race winds through beautiful countryside on quiet roads and is well known for its friendly marshals and welcoming atmosphere. With a free bacon or veggie bap waiting at the finish, it’s easy to see the appeal!

MOBILE 07733 420611

Email marcus@tlchimneys.co.uk www.tlchimneys.co.uk

SUFFOLK • NORFOLK • ESSEX

INTERNAL DOORS SUPPLIED AND FITTED

Finally, the club would like to extend a huge well done to the beginners group. Fourteen participants took on the 9-week running course and successfully completed it by running a 5k route around Hadleigh. Their efforts were rewarded with a well-earned medal, followed by a celebratory drink at The Six Bells. Don’t forget – if you’d like to join Hadleigh Hares, you can try the club for one month completely free, with access to as many sessions as you like. For more information, visit hadleigh-hares.co.uk or email secretary@hadleigh-hares.co.uk And if running isn’t for you but you’re interested in coaching, we’d love to hear from you too!

OUR FACEBOOK BUSINESS PAGE FOR REVIEWS AND EXAMPLES OF OUR WORK TEL: 07710 502657

INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK:

Hadleigh Tennis Club

Hadleigh Tennis Club members have been enjoying a busy April at Layham Road.

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Members enjoyed an Easter Day session enhanced by coffee and hot cross buns and then a week later an informal tournament with lots of swapping of playing partners, one never knew who you were going to play with next. All lots of fun and a refreshing change from our usual format. The tournament was won in fine style by Charlotte Short. The club entered a team in the Ipswich and District Tennis League winter season and the final results have been released. The team were third in their division, a good result, well done to all players. Several of the team have been taking advantage of coaching sessions run by our new coach Joel McLeod. Will we do better next year?

We offer clean, secure, easy access storage from £50/month and workshop options from £75-£400/month

Would you, or your children like to refresh your tennis talents or take it up as a beginner? Do contact our coach Joel McLeod who runs sessions for both children and adults.

● Access all hours ● 24 hour CCTV & Security Barrier

● Flood Lighting

Email jmctenniscoach@gmail.com or call07496 365619

● Parking available adjacent to unit

www.elmsettstorshops.co.uk

If you play tennis and would like to come to Hadleigh tennis club, sessions are on Tuesday evenings 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm and Sunday mornings 9.30 am to 11.30 am at Layham Road sports ground. The players are enjoying the lighter evenings and being able to play without using the floodlights, do come and join us.

Gate Farm, Elmsett Tel: 01473 822162 M: 07767 290 469

that came from Stoke by Nayland resort.

I have to say this winter so far has been extremely hard for us with the weather damaging and destroying our feed, belongings and the huge vet bills keeping the oldies we have happy, healthy and well, which is always my priority, but all of this comes at a financial cost! Finding donators is also hard, but I have to keep everything crossed and pray for some generosity to come our way. If you are reading this Cherry, thank you, you have been a silent blessing. All donations are welcome with open arms and much gratitude. We are planning to have another curry night and dog walk soon, as well as other events through the year, so keep an eye out in the village shops or on our website/facebook page for our posters as well as in our monthly write up that this informative magazine put in for us each month.

The photos for February are of our sweet donkeys having their breakfast and Lucy our therapy dog making one of our rescued young cats Milo feel relaxed and loved. Lucy is so good with all animals, from the horses to rescued or injured birds, chickens, rabbits, kittens, you name it she will give her support to them, whether it is an animal or person in need, she goes to their side and offers her love.

Hadleigh United Youth - Girls

I am still looking for a part-time person who can work with us 3 mornings a week, one being a Tuesday. I need someone who is reliable and can be flexible to cover odd mornings when needed and someone who is physically capable, believe me your fitness and strength will improve, ask any of our helpers. One of our ladies has lost two stone and says she hasn’t looked that fit in years, so there are positives. Contact me (Jann) if you would like any more information about becoming part of our small team and helping care for our lovely horses and donkeys.

Calling all future Lionesses! HUFC Weetabix Wildcats restarts on Tuesday 5th March at Hadleigh United Football Club - from 5:00pm - 6:00pm. The Weetabix Wildcats is an F.A. initiative and provides weekly coaching sessions, which are fun orientated and include lots of skills and games. These centres are designed to inspire and provide girls aged 5 to 11 years with regular opportunities to play football in a fun and engaging environment. They are open exclusively for girls at a cost of £3.00 per session. If your child wants to become a Wildcat, please contact Gavin Peters by email: Strikersltd@aol.com for further information or to confirm your attendance.

Hadleigh Tennis Club

Great news! We at Hadleigh Tennis Club are excited at the prospect of seeing the long awaited new pavilion at the Layham Rd sports ground this year. It will mean we can properly entertain visiting tennis teams for home league matches. We will also be able, once more, to offer refreshments to our members and any other players who want to join us on court during club hours.If you fancy picking up a tennis racquet again this Spring why not come along and give it a go. Club hours are from 9.30am on Sundays and 6.30pm on Tuesdays.

Hadleigh Rams deservedly win third hard-fought game on the bounce

Hadleigh have had many recent challenges in recruiting new players and have had to play games with players out of position and a minimal bench. The tides, however, are starting to turn in the club’s favour and this means they are now competing on a more level playing field with other clubs in EC1 South. After the narrow loss of an earlier miserable away game at Felixstowe during Biblical rain and wind storms, Hadleigh Rams dug deep to take this game at Layham Road. With the Rams scoring in the first seven minutes through

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THE RENTERS’ RIGHTS ACT?

The UK Government are bringing about major changes to the private renting sector. As a Landlord, you will need to familiarise yourself with this new legislation to stay compliant.

At The Letting Department, we can manage all aspects of renting your property, to ensure you are ready for the Renters’ Rights Act coming into effect this Spring.