I was lucky enough to secure a London Marathon place this year to run for Meningitis Now, a charity that means a huge amount to our family. My daughter, Xanthe, contracted pneumococcal meningitis as a baby and was critically ill. As a result of the damage it caused, she has been left with profound learning and physical disabilities. She is a warrior 18-year-old now, but life is still very challenging for her (you can read her full story on my JustGiving page). Meningitis Now have been an amazing support to us as a family, and I wanted to do something to repay them for all their help.
in the photo!
I would be so grateful if you would be willing to take a look at my JustGiving page (right) and consider making a donation to my marathon cause. Every donation makes
Thank you very much, Jess (justgiving.com/page/jessie-carter)
1952
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Looking back on reading in Schools
C.S.Lewis once quoted “We read to know we are not alone”. 2026 has been designated the year to encourage everyone to read more. To try and persuade children from being glued to their phones, but adults too. I have always been a book worm, reading under the bed covers with a torch when I was hooked on a book that I
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lived quite close to a public library, so was never without something to read. My favourite book was ‘Children of the New Forest’ which I read repeatedly, followed by ‘Black Beauty’ 'Wind in the Willows' and ‘Jane Eyre’. So, when I started teaching one of my priorities was to encourage my pupils to enjoy reading.
I loved reading aloud to my class, usually, they were very attentive, except for one little boy who always had to sit in front because he would bite whoever was in front of him. Even then, one day he
I made the mistake of reading a story that I hadn't previously read, although I had read quite a few of the great children’s writers Dick King Smith. The book was called ‘Lady Daisy’, a great story linking Victorian Times and a doll found by a boy in his grandmother’s attic. The ending was so poignant I had tears rolling down my cheeks, as did some of the children. Lesson learnt!
Unfortunately, not all my pupils had access to books at home, not even a dictionary. Teaching for many years in challenging area taught me so many of our pupils didn’t have books at home,. Sometimes schoolbooks that did go home came back damaged or were lost due to younger siblings. So, I would scour charity shops and buy up as many books as I could. These books would go in a special box, and the children knew that if that book didn't come
reading material that would really interest children, especially some of the boys who thought reading was boring when there was
were old atlases, comics, motorcycle and football magazines. In the eighties I was advised by one of our Literacy Experts to use books that had easier less complicated text, for example 'Black Beauty' advice. If children did query an unfamilier word; for example town children didn't know what an orchard was, then I would explain. Sometimes I would photocopy some text, ask the children to underline any words they didn't understand. We would then use dictionary to share the meaning, and how we would use the word. This enhanced their vocabulary and helped them when writing
books when they were younger. I used to love the 'Rupert the Bear' stories as well as poetry written especially by Elizabeth Jennings, I can still remember most of 'The Listener' by Walter De La Mare
joy of having a mixed aged class for the whole day. I would start by playing some music, usually classic e.g. Mozart's Clarinet Concerto. I would ask the children to express to their feelings and from these
a painting. I would make sure that they had a variety of materials to use. These days were a delight, I was always thrilled with the outcome. Claude Debussy once quoted that music, painting and poetry are all linked, one cannot exist without the other. Another quote "Music washes away from the soul the dust of life". Now more than ever do we need some inspirational music in our troubled world, I know I do.
Sue Ayres
Lavenham Library
SAVE THE DATE - Saturday 13 June 2026
thrilled to announce another talk by our
Tracy’s latest book, an historical novel, entitled The House of Boleyn will be published in April.
Hever Castle Holds all the Boleyn Secrets …
Combining drama, danger and passion, Tracy Borman brings the Boleyn family’s three-decade rise and precipitous fall to vivid life using their world at Hever, family and servants alike, as never written before. The result is a powerful and emotional novel of family, fate and history.
TICKETS WILL GO ON SALE IN APRIL
- and will be available online or in the library.
Contact Details: Lavenham Library, Lavenham Village Hall, Church St, Lavenham CO10 9QT
Stories from a Wimbledon Line Judge
Wendy Smith
She was on court when Andy Murray won …and had to intervene when Andre Agassi
A line judge for 40 years reaching the highest grade, Wendy’s talk is a fascinating insight into the world of tennis at the highest level. She will bring a unique selection of photographs and mementos and explain what goes into qualifying for and working as a line judge, as well as the controversial way in which Wimbledon stood them down.
Hadleigh Business Centre
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St Mary’s Church, Aldham
Sitting atop a small hill, St Mary’s church looks south over the gently
Inside, the sunlight streams through the windows (except when it’s visitors feel when they step inside.
We have a service every Sunday at 11 am. Even though we value the “old English” language in some services we also have a “modern English” format for those who might prefer that. Weeks 1 and 2 each month follow a Book of Common Prayer (BCP) format. Week
Holy Communion service is celebrated in Week 4. So there is a full range of service “styles” which will hopefully cater for everyone. Whichever the service style in any week, we hope that everyone who comes to St Mary’s will feel a warm and friendly welcome from our small (sometimes very small!) congregation. Whether you drop by whilst on a walk, or you want a quiet place to sit in the sun and think...or even want to come to a
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Hadleigh and District Flower Club
Minns on Irises. He was very interesting telling us how Sir Cedric Morris bred his many irises naming them with names that had a special meaning to him. His talk was illustrated by slides showing some of the beautiful colours that he had created. Colin Platt then answered questions from the audience and explained how new irises were created. It was all very fascinating. They we’re both obviously passionate about the breeding of new irises.
look forward to seeing her as she is a new demonstrator.
Eleigh Village Hall. This is always a very popular event and this year the lunch will be followed by a fashion show.If anyone is interested
822971. A donation from this event will be made to St.Elizabeth Hospice.
Look forward to seeing you all next month.
Sense of Purpose at the Shed
A sense of purpose is fundamental to human wellbeing. It gives structure to our days, motivation to get up in the morning, and a retirement, redundancy, bereavement or changes in health, that sense of purpose can quietly slip away. When routines disappear, social circles shrink, and skills go unused, isolation and poor mental health can follow.
This is where Hadleigh Men's Shed plays a vital role in the local community. The Shed provides a welcoming, informal space where men can come together, work side by side, and reconnect with a sense of usefulness and belonging. Whether it’s through practical projects, learning new skills, sharing experience, or simply having a cup of tea and a chat, members are given reasons to engage, contribute, and feel valued. Importantly, the Shed is not about pressure or performance. There are no targets to meet and no expectations to conform. Men can take part at their own
restore purpose in a natural and sustainable way. By fostering companionship, creativity and contribution, Hadleigh Men’s Shed is helping men rediscover purpose and in doing so, strengthening the wellbeing of the whole community. If you would like to know more then please feel free to pop in and visit the shed, a warm welcome awaits or you can check out our brand new website www.hadleighmensshed.co.uk are all about. hadleighmensshed@gmail.com.
Polstead Gardening Club
and Flower Arranging by Helen Hillier, Helen Herbaceous Tuesday 21 April at 7.30pm : A talk about 'Garden Design' by Francesca Green, Green Eye Garden Design We look forward to seeing you at the above events. All meetings are held at Polstead Village Hall on The Green in
Non-members are welcome £5 (cash or cheque please). Entrance includes a drink and nibbles.
Membership Subscriptions are due in February - Single Membership £20 Joint Membership £35 and we very much welcome new Members. Queries to gardeningclubpolstead@ yahoo.com. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Helping to Reduce your Plastics
Plastics can be great when we really need them. But all too often we just use plastic because it’s there and it’s cheap, so we now use four times as much as we did in 1995. And despite many of us
lasts forever – literally. It does not rot or decay and nothing eats it. But it does break up into tiny invisible pieces called micro-plastics and this is the second problem – microplastics get everywhere including our own bodies and just about everything else on Earth.
Reduce plastic use as much as possible, then reuse what you can and only rely on recycling part in The Big Plastic Count which is asking us to report on how much plastic we each have in our household waste. You might be
The Big Plastic Count is between 9th and 15th March and you can get full instructions at thebigplasticcount. com. We are lucky to have independent businesses in Hadleigh who make reusing plastics easier. The Little Ginger Bee on the High Street and
them along. Toni at The Little Ginger Bee understands that “with today’s busy lifestyles and the rising cost of living, many people options like drop and collect or local delivery there are ways to
customers from Hadleigh and surrounding villages have prevented nearly 5,000 plastic bottles and many soft plastics from entering amazing achievement”.
Emma from Remedy at Mung Bean also sells loose organic vegetables and products sold in plant-based home compostable packaging. So, come on Hadleigh why don’t you support these enterprising women and reduce the amount of waste and recycling in your bins? And don’t forget about buying local from the other you can use your own containers if you wish. Remember money spent in your small local shops strengthens your community. And if you have to shop online or at supermarkets, then check out their plastic free options too. For more information please contact hadleigh.heat@hotmail.com HEAT
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SUNDAY, 22nd MARCH 2026
Hadleigh Evening WI
how writing her book Grief and Glitter helped her cope with the death of her husband.
East Bergholt is holding an exhibition 7-14th June in celebration of the 250th anniversary of John Constable's birth, Hadleigh and the other four WIs in our group are planning an exhibit for the WI table.
Constable was brought up. Last month we had a good day in Dedham - the day before King Charles and Queen Camilla were
the 4th April. Lunch Bunchers will be at Belstead Brook Hotel on the 12th - well worth a return visit. Bookworms discussed the Librarian by Sallie Vickers, having postponed Raising Hare to this month as
several bin bags to take to Boots in Sudbury. We also collect egg boxes which are gratefully received by the recipients. In addition, clean white plastic milk bottle tops are passed on. Do look to see how you might help us support Loving Grace (see the articles in last month's HCN.)
Our next meeting is on Tuesday 17 March at 7.30pm in the Seminar Room of Hadleigh Library when Philip Lyons will be talking about a Sailor's Life (a merry life) in the Navy in the 18th and 19th centuries If you think you might like to join, come to a 'taster' evening.
Tales, Trails and Farmyard fun this Easter
Available from Saturday 28th March to Sunday 12th April (please note we will be closed on Easter Sunday, 5th April).
We are bringing some of your beloved and favourite
Three Bears, there is a tale for everyone. Spend the holidays with us and enjoy some classic
be open so make sure you stop by and take your turn on the Barrell Train and Cresta Run Sledges.
We hope to see you then!
Spring activities to help your child with their talking
Spring is on its way (soon we hope!) and what better way to support your young child with their talking than getting out into nature? Local speech and language therapist Nikki Samuel brings you some fun activities for all the family to try this springtime. Remember every child
you do have any concerns about their talking, please speak to your GP or Health Visitor.
Scavenger Hunt A great activity to get outdoors and to learn some new vocabulary! Cut out the game from this page and take it
word! Use the words as you walk around – repeating words many times in context helps children to learn them.
Egg Hunt This Easter, rather than just the usual chocolate egg hunt, why not hunt for Easter-themed items?! Choose a few
name them or if they say the name, help expand their language by cute bunny, small bunny, grey bunny, bunny hopping, my bunny” etc.
Obstacle Course Sometimes learning preposition words can be tricky, such as in, on, under, over, through, behind, next to. Try setting up an obstacle course outside for your child to complete. behind the tree etc. As they complete the course, try not to ask too many questions and instead provide simple language models e.g. “wow you are under the chair!”
Pavement Chalk
your child’s lead and focus on their interests. E.g. if they like animals, you can draw animals together and talk about their names, colours, sizes etc. Use your drawings to tell your child simple stories – they can join in with their ideas if they want! You can also draw games such as hopscotch – draw pictures or sounds in the squares and as they hop they can say a word or sound.
If you have any questions, you can contact Nikki Samuel at
MP’s Fair – where opportunities are just the job!
James Cartlidge, Member of Parliament for South Suffolk, will be holding his fifth Jobs Fair on Friday 10th April,from 10:00 - 12:00, at the Stevenson Centre in Great Cornard. This year’s theme is ‘Employment & Skills’. Following the success of four previous fairs held in Great Cornard, Hadleigh and Sudbury, the event is designed to help local people who are out of work find new opportunities, and to support constituents looking to upskill or change career through practical workshops and advice.
Last year’s fair attracted more than 50 local employers and over 800 attendees. Many businesses went on to recruit as a direct result, creating real opportunities for local people. One attendee in 2024, even left the event having secured their ‘dream job’ with the NHS, which is a great example of how the fair delivers positive outcomes for both jobseekers and employers across South Suffolk.
“Our first candidate that came along, I’ve actually employed him” – Hadleigh manufacturer, 2022
“I wasn’t sure what opportunities were out there locally, but the fair opened my eyes, and I left feeling very motivated” – Attendee, 2025
“We spoke to a really good mix of people on the day, many of whom were genuinely interested in the roles we had available. We came away with several strong leads and follow-up conversations” – Sudbury-based employer, 2023
“The fair gave me confidence and direction. I spoke to employers I wouldn’t normally have access to, and I left with helpful advice on next steps I can take to help boost my CV” – Attendee, 2024
“We were very impressed by the turnout and the positive atmosphere of the fair. We would strongly encourage other businesses to take part in the event” – Stall Holder, 2025
We look forward to seeing you at the Fair in Great Cornard on the 10th April
Spring Events at Hadleigh Old School: Gardening Tips, Art
Show & Wine Tasting
venue at 5 Bridge Street IP7 6BY – with adjacent free car parking next to the Iron Bridge (B1070) crossing the River Brett into Hadleigh. We are a special Gardeners Question Time, 19th April ‘Come into the Garden, Maud’ Warburton (1920-1996), 15th May Wine Tasting.
Gardeners Question Time supporting Benton End:
Anglia, Barbara will be questioning James Horner, Head Gardener Benton End House and Gardens, Åsa Gregers-Warg, Head Gardener
Gardens of Hadleigh.
Doors open 6.30pm for the start of Gardeners Question Time at 7pm. Purchase tickets at £25 from www.ticketsource.co.uk (search for Hadleigh Old School). Your generosity will support the revival of Benton End as a new centre of art and horticulture. Questions for the panel should be submitted in advance of the event, please email hadleigholdschool@mail.com
Join us after the panel for a complimentary glass of wine and a chance to hear about our upcoming exhibition, Come Into The Garden Maud, celebrating the art of Joan 'Maudie' Warburton (1920-
and one of the longest serving alumni of the East Anglian School of Painting and Drawing; succulent is pictured here. The exhibition will open at
Good Friday to Sunday 19th April, tickets on the door £7 entry fee including booklet.
Spring Wine Tasting at Hadleigh Old School, from 6pm to 8pm on
wine cellar for the summer season? Timed as an aperitif for the May Show festivities (or as your visitors may know it The Hadleigh Show), our tasting event challenges you to test your knowledge, before
alternative descriptions provided by sommeliers from Adnams the award-winning wine merchant. Canapes will be supplied by Hadleigh chef Jane Clark.
Numbers strictly limited/advance purchase only – Tickets on sale now at £22 per adult from Adnams 73-75 High Street Hadleigh.
Polstead Village Hall
Hadleigh Old School, 3-5 Bridge Street, Hadleigh, Suffolk IP7 6BY
beautiful, haunting... these are just some of the ways to describe the Dvorak which will be performed by
incredible experience. Joining the choir will be the Colchester
Tickets are £18 or free for those in full time education, and are available online, at The Idler bookshop in Hadleigh, or hadleighchoralsociety.org.uk.
Hadleigh Library News
Hadleigh Library has seen a wonderful start to 2026! It is lovely to see so many people continuing to use all the services
anyone who has recently signed up for a free library card! A heartfelt thank you to those who both donated and bought your generosity helped to raise over £500! This money will enable library – keep a look out in the coming months for more details! Libraries will be co-celebrating the National Year of Reading 2026. The UK-wide campaign aims to encourage more people to read for pleasure, aiming to boost literacy, wellbeing and life chances for individuals and communities. Throughout the year we will be getting involved with new book collections and activities – you may have already spotted specialist book collections and displays in the library to ‘Jumpstart your Wellbeing;’ throughout March and April we will be ‘Springing into Reading.’
If you have not ventured into Hadleigh Library, please do pop
Finally, a huge thank you to Friends of Hadleigh Library and to the community for your continued support.
Hadleigh Tennis Club
Hadleigh is a welcoming Tennis Club with Club
leagues as well as holding in-house tournaments. We are pleased to say that we have coaching for Saturday, who can compete and represent our Club.
We welcome beginners to try coaching on Saturdays and those who may feel rusty to come and jump in. So, no matter what your level or age – why not give it a go.
jmctenniscoach@gmail.com
Aldham Parish Council –
Vacancy for a Clerk
Aldham Parish Council is seeking to appoint a part-time Clerk to join our council.
meetings each year.
fully supported and encouraged by all councillors. Enthusiasm and common sense will be as important as formal experience.
This post is part time and required for six hours per month –including attendance at evening meetings, which are usually scheduled for Tuesdays
Salary will conform to current Local Government Agreement LC1
provide their own computer, etc. but reasonable expenses for consumables will be reimbursed.
We hope to appoint a new Clerk as soon as possible. Applicants should provide all details you feel will make you the right person for the role.
Please submit applications by email to the Chairman (Jonathan Ralph) at jonathan_ralph@outlook.com , or feel free to contact him at the same address to arrange an informal discussion
Medical Charitable Trust
Are you aware that the Hadleigh Health Centre has an association with a local charitable trust?
‘for the protection and preservation of health and the relief of sickness’.
Medical Practice can apply for consideration of a grant.
The Trust is not intended to supplant normal assistance available through the welfare system or Council support but for genuine needs that cannot be met by other more appropriate means. Additionally, donations to the trust have been generously given and are most gratefully received.
The Trustees take a reasonably broad interpretation of the purpose Practice Manager by letter to the address below.
Please ensure the purpose of the grant is made clear and why it cannot be met by other means, together with the amount of money requested.
The trust is presently adequately funded and Trustees are most sympathetic to genuine need and, whilst we must ensure funds are expended appropriately, we are very keen to meet requests and so
Hadleigh Boxford Medical Practice Charitable Trust c/o Hadleigh Health Centre, Market Place, Hadleigh, Ipswich, IP7 5DN
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.
We were delighted to welcome PC Johnson, our School Liaison at our school delivering PolEd lessons to our pupils. These resources to support schools in delivering expertly planned lessons designed to develop a deep awareness of risks, citizenship and the law
Robins Class took part in a session focused on understanding ‘How the Police Help Us’. The children engaged with the lesson and enjoyed discovering the important
awareness about the dangers associated with vaping, smoking and drugs. This informative session aimed to help our students make responsible choices and understand the risks involved. All the
is always fun.
Big Schools’ Bird Watch 2026
drinks bottles and pieces of wood they had whittled themselves to create bird with seeds to attract the birds. The feeders were then hung around the school grounds, in Buckles Wood and within
Schools' Birdwatch 2026. During the survey the children were able to spot and identify lots of birds using guides and their binoculars! Tractors in School with -
ciation
Robins Class enjoyed a visit from local farmer Ed, who brought his New Holland tractor to our school. This was
Agricultural Association’s ‘tractors in Schools initiative, which allows the children to have a close look at tractors and learn how they are used in farming. The children had lots of questions, they enjoyed looking at the mechanical parts and climbing into the cab!
Books for Schools Tokens
celebrates 2026 as the Year of Reading and promotes our county's literary heritage. The EADT will print Books for School Tokens from March to May, which we are collecting for a chance to win part of £12,000 in new books. If you have tokens, we would be grateful if
Welcome to Elmsett School!
To arrange a visit and discover more about what makes Elmsett C of E Primary School such a fantastic place for children to learn and
Email admin@elmsettschool.co.uk or phone
please visit www.elmsettschool.co.uk
Helping you discover you could claim
Sudbury Citizens Advice is here for you to provide free independent and
large variety of subjects, problems and
being at the forefront with their knowledge and experience. As an example:
The husband and wife contacted us seeking advice on a particular which may give you extra money to help with your living costs if you are a state pensioner. The couple were in their late 70s and were convinced that they were not entitled to claim pension credit, however having recently a presentation on the subject given by Sudbury citizens advice they thought that they would contact us.
informed the adviser that their weekly income was over £600 and that they had nearly £100,000 in savings. With that information the adviser could have advised them they were quite correct and with that income and savings there would not be any entitlement to claim pension credit.
Thankfully Sudbury's citizens advice advisers are trained and experienced to look beyond the obvious. In talking further to the indeed they did become entitled to apply for pension credit. Whilst the value of pension credit they were entitled to was only about £5.00 a week, what pleased them more was that any amount of pension credit also provides a free TV licence, a warm homes discount of £150.00 a year deducted from their electricity bill and a cold weather payment of £25 a week. All of these "extras" are automatically provided once in receipt of pension credit. The moral of this tale? Never to assume the obvious and most importantly not to hesitate to contact our advisers at Sudbury surprised.
Celebrating 60 Years: Farewell to the Hadleigh Naturalists Society
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Hadleigh Naturalists Society, and it is with sadness and regret that the committee has decided to bring the society to an end. The society was formed in
and a day of birdwatching in the winter.
In April, we held our spring fayre, raising money for East Anglian wildlife charities. To date, through the spring fayres and general funds, we have raised £20,750 for wildlife charities. Speaking as Chairman, I would like to thank our committee, past and present; our members, past and present; our speakers; and
thank everybody who attended our spring fayres. Lastly, I would like to thank The Community News for publishing our events. Our last meeting will be on Monday 2 March at 7.30 pm. The talk will be given by Brian Partridge on Alpine Plants. It will take place in the seminar room above Hadleigh Library at 7.30 pm, with a lift available.
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Hello to our readers, I hope as always you have been keeping well. Sunday 29 March is fast approaching for our Dog walk, which all have enjoyed when they have come along on previous walks with
be drinks, tea and cakes and we kindly ask for £5 per person, you can also meet our animals.
March, also not in the picture is Skinny who will be 27 years old on the 21 March. If you would like to come along and meet the horses and give a donation for their birthday please contact me to arrange a time and day.
to approximately a 10 mile radius around this area and Hadleigh, Polstead, if possible.
Do you own land and can sell to us? Do you know someone who does and can help? Can you put feelers out for us please and contact me if you have any ideas or know of someone to approach, or if you are in a position to sell. Also preparing for when we do move we have a lot of belongings to come with us, so we really need hands and vehicles helping us, if you have any time to help then please call me, or if you own or know of a business that would sponsor/help with our move that would be brilliant. I will be going
would be happy to promote your business in return for your help.
moving and putting back up we are being quoted thousands
website and click on the go fund me link or go through our PayPal. by all our animals and the people we support at our Charity. We need an army of volunteers and professionals to help with the move and new set up. Please call me.
hotmail.co.uk Website: frenchscarehaven.org.uk
SATURDAY 4TH APRIL 2026
Bildeston Primary School
Learning and Growing Together
This week we were delighted to welcome back Mr Pratt. The children were so excited to see him and even more excited when they spotted the tractor rolling onto the playground. They always enjoy this experience so much, and we’re thrilled that he returned again to share it with them.
Agricultural Association for continuing to include Bildeston in the Tractors in Schools project. And an extra thank-you to Mr Pratt for spending time chatting with the children about livestock farming. His enthusiasm and kindness make this visit really special.
Inuit Art in KS2
has taken us on a fascinating journey into the world of Inuit art. The children have loved exploring
especially those who create beautiful sculptures inspired by their culture and environment.
After learning about these artists, the children had a go at becoming sculptors themselves using bars of soap to carve their own mini creations. It was wonderful to see their concentration, creativity, and pride as their ideas took shape.
The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe
Year 5 had a wonderful afternoon watching the very talented the Wardrobe. The performance was engaging and of a very high standard, and our children were enthralled throughout. We were extremely proud of Year 5, who were fantastically behaved and represented our school beautifully. After the performance, the children had the opportunity to meet the cast and talk to them about the production, including meeting their favourite characters, which was a memorable experience for all.
Cross Country
Steelpan Workshop
We were thrilled to have Caribbean vibes in our school when Irie Steelpan
children got to dance to their amazing sounds and were able to play the steel pans themselves. Everyone left the workshops with a smile and a spring in their step. We had a super time!
An enormous well done to all the Year 4s who took part in the cross country this week at Layham Road Rugby Club. The children were troopers, the conditions muddy! A special shout out to those place respectfully. All children were supportive to their peers cheering and clapping them in and across the line. Great perseverance!
If you are considering Bildeston Primary for number below. We can arrange personal tours of our school.
Bildeston Primary School Newberry Road,
CIC 100 CLUB DRAW
The February 2026 draw for the Polstead 100 Club has taken place and the winners are:-
Orchard Barn News
Learning from the past how to build a greener future
Getting to Know Elm – a quiet day of learning and making Barn, elm has been part of the story for centuries. Mature elms still stand in the landscape, young ones quietly regenerating along hedges and margins, and parts of the main barn itself. Built in the 1790s were crafted from elm timber. It is a place shaped by trees, getting to know this remarkable species.
March, 10am – 4pm,
NAYLAND CINEMA
FRIDAY 20th MARCH SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE
Mill Street Deli are delighted to be catering for the Nayland Cinema nights using the best ingredients from their very own deli for you to booking is desirable. Bookings are not restricted to ‘cinema goers’ and if you wish to join us just for a bite to eat you are more than welcome! For a peek at the menu and to make a booking please go to millstreetstore.co.uk and follow the link.
Film tickets available at £5 each on the door or online a www.naylandevents.org
(a link to purchase tickets can also be found on Nayland Village Hall website under organisations/cinema) 16 and under £2. Ice creams,
A bar supplying a range of beverages including wine, beer and soft drinks will be available from 6.00 pm and in the interval. Next cinema date for your diary:
Hall website.
Saturday 21 March 2026 at Hintlesham Community Hall
Free entry to all visitors from 2pm to see the winning entries and enjoy tea,
Entries open to all Schedules at https://hintleshamandchattisham-pc.gov.uk
Flower, cookery, handicraft & childrens classes
Getting to Know Elm, a gentle, immersive workshop exploring one of our most resilient native trees. This free workshop is part of a developing series of seasonal gatherings, designed to help people reconnect with the natural world through the Wheel of the Year, marking moments of change, renewal and attention in the landscape.
Indoors and outdoors, we’ll explore how to identify elm, how it grows and renews itself, and the habitats it supports. We’ll look at historical uses of elm in tools, buildings and daily life, and spend
There will be opportunities to draw elm, notice early signs of or wrist band.
This is a calm, unhurried day shaped by the group and by the trees themselves. No prior knowledge is needed just a willingness to slow down, notice and listen.
Practicalities:
•Indoor and outdoor activities (please dress warmly)
•Tools and materials provided
•Bring a packed lunch
•
10 places available – pre-booked.
If you’re drawn to trees, craft or stillness, you’ll be very welcome. To book your place please email sarah.orchardbarn@gmail.com Orchard Barn is technically Ringshall, but actually on the south-west edge of Battisford. It is a volunteer run centre for grid ways.
We warmly welcome all your contributions of articles, letters, sports reports, events and photographs email comnews@keithavis.co.uk
Cleaned & Repaired by a
A breathtaking journey through courage, loss, freedom...
Born into hardship and shaped by unthinkable cruelty, Alice’s world is one of misery and deep yearning for her mother. Through tragedy, abandonment, the women who came before her - her grandmother, a Kensington Society silenced too soon.
When Alice discovers her mother’s secret journal, she unearths a legacy of love,
hope and the dream of a better world, she steps onto the frontline of one of Votes for Women.
The year is 1914, Britain has just entered war with Germany, and recounts the journey that shaped her - from hardship, loss, and that lurked deep within, or the overlooked maid, but a devoted equality - whatever the cost.
This is the story of sisterhood in the face of impossible odds - and the generations of women who refused to be silent. Rich in historical detail and bursting with emotional depth, this voices of ordinary women whose bravery reshaped a nation.
Heart-wrenching. Inspiring. Unputdownable.
“The stench is unexplainable. There is nothing that I can quite compare it to. It is like no other scent that has entered my nostrils before, uninvited. The lack of ventilation in here only
grey-stoned walls and the shells of people who once had hopes and dreams, even momentary happiness perhaps, lie listlessly on the cold, soiled slabs — defeated.
Welcome to Ipswich Gaol.”
Launching Sunday 8th March - International Women’s Day. Price: £10.99.
I will be holding a charity book launch at Dial Lane Bookshop in Ipswich at 12 pm. All money raised from the book sale will be donated to Dementia UK in memory of my grandmother. Come along and help support a worthy charity!
Available from Dial Lane or direct from me at izzycalvesbert@ gmail.com, with free local delivery in the Hadleigh area or Royal Mail postage can be arranged.
Bildeston Carpet Bowls Club
Tuesday17 MarchHome match against Hundon Tuesday24 MarchRoll up
If you feel like some fun and excercise come along to Chamberlin Hall and give carpet bowls a try.
supplied. We start at 7.30pm, so if you are interested please
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 new people, learning, staying active, and having fun later in life. It’s local, social, friendly, low cost and open to all.
We have 500 members and over 40 interest groups including walking (from strollers to 5+ milers), theatre trips, garden visits, art appreciation, curry club, international dining, science group, Singles lunch… there’s something for everyone. If we don’t have a group you are interested in, you are welcome to start one up. Membership costs only £15 a year.
10am – 12pm at the Lambe School, Gaston Street, 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 of the month
Baker, acclaimed cruise ship lecturer, will return to talk on “The Anatomy of the NHS “ and on 8 April Bernard Lockett’s subject will be “The Heritage of Gilbert and Sullivan “.
Please take a look at our website stourvalley.u3asite.uk/welcome/ for more information and contact details.
Lavenham Carpet Bowls Club
I can hardly believe we are heading towards Spring and hopefully less rain! At the end of January, some of us from the Carpet Bowls Club had a weekend away at Potters, as we competed in a competition there. Some of the members did better than others, but we had a good weekend, enjoying everything at Potters, as well as the Carpet Bowls competition, so much so we booked to go again next year. Hopefully you can see that where the Bowls Championship is played and televised from in mid January, smaller Carpet Bowls mats are laid out for our competition.
Back at Lavenham Village Hall we are enjoying using our new coloured bowls, which we purchased with a Lottery grant, and we would love to see new prospective members come along and try them out. All equipment is provided, along with encouraging advice
New members are always welcome, so why not come along and meet the Club members.
Hadleigh Garden Club
The recent talk entitled “What’s in a Name” was both informative and entertaining. Lynne Moore, shown with her plants for sale, runs a nursery in Billericay, Essex. She spoke with humour explaining why Latin names are used to admit I use their common names rather than genus or species but appreciate when growing hundreds of varieties in a nursery it’s essential correct name.
The meeting was well attended with many paying the deposit 07946744457.
16 March is our AGM when we hope you will join us to vote on our committee.
New members are welcome to bring fresh ideas into the club.
entrance opposite St .Marys church. Annual subscription of £12 is due. Each meeting is £2 and £4 visitors.
hadleighgardenclub@ gmail.com
From Film to Symphony
concert will be on March 29th at 6 pm in Sudbury Arts Centre. This promises
when Sweden’s best kept symphonic secret will be revealed – Larsson’s Third Symphony.
Shall We Dance, Viktors Tale by John the Terminal, the theme music from Morricone’s Cinema Paradiso and the theme music from Schindler’s List also by John Williams.
What will make the evening even more special is that the soloists for the evening are all young, local, and very very talented. Isabella Patrick on violin for the Cinema Paradiso and Schindlers List and Jasper Rebel on clarinet for Viktor’s Tale. Plus a short appearance by Robert Badea on accordion for Viktor’s Tale. The unselfconscious enthusiasm and huge talent of all these soloists will make it a night to remember.
The second half features Larsson’s Third Symphony, this is a really attractive work written in the 1940s. Why have you not heard it before, well mostly to get hold of. Listeners will love the urgency of the music, its
Its very much an ear worm job.
For more information and tickets please go to www. sudburysymphonyorchestra.com
led in private woodland near Hadleigh
Hadleigh Society
his talk “Becoming a House Detective – researching the history of your home”, Stephen Poulter will share his experience of researching the story behind his 17th century, oak timbered cottage in a tiny village in rural Norfolk. He describes the various processes and use of historic documents during his investigations while recounting tales of owners and residents over a period spanning more than journey of historical discovery.
An author of a number of local history books, Stephen has given numerous talks and is involved in many community heritage organisations. He currently runs an online antiques and vintage business.
///lunge.boxing.unroll). This is a circular walk of approximately 8.5 we suggest you use the overspill paddock behind the pub car park.
Street, Polstead Hall and back to the Cock arriving around 1 pm. Those who may want to eat at the pub would be well advised to pre-order as it can get busy at lunchtime.
As usual, we expect to maintain a modest 2.5 miles per hour ( 4km/ hr). Allowing for two short refreshment stops we should be back at around 1 pm.
Family Fun at Bridges Farm
11am - 3pm Bridges Farm, Kersey Tye IP7 6HB
£5 per person (under 2’s free) £20 per family All proceeds to charity
enjoying the beautiful countryside. On our working livestock farm you will see:
Cow with their calves
Big Bulls
Sheep with their lambs
Hens and chicks
Ducks
Help feed the animals!
Farmyard games
Tractors & machinery
Barbeque and cream teas
Everyone is welcome, including well-behaved dogs. Strong shoes or preferably walking boots should be worn as the ground can be muddy and rough in places at any time of the year.
As usual, route maps can be requested from the website. For further information about these walks go to www.hadleighwalkers.com
Blast from the Past
Alan Wignall
the working lives and leisure activities of people living on its banks. It is one of the most attractive rivers in the country, winding through a wide pastoral and wooded valley, past towns and villages of great beauty and with a rich history.
The River Stour Trust was set up to improve access and navigation and to encourage use of the river. Since its foundation in 1968, the Trust has helped preserve the Stour which was at risk of falling into abandonment. We can now see large numbers of anglers, rowers, canoeists and paddle-boarders enjoying the river. The River Stour Trust also led the Clean Water Initiative which brought about the in 2024.
allowing greater access to and use of the Stour Navigation. In recent years we have also had a traditional 46-foot Stour Lighter restored - the ‘John Constable’ now regularly operates trips from to enjoy the river and its history.
visitors every year, including wheelchair passengers, to experience the beauty and wildlife of the River Stour. Iconic creatures such on the river. If you would like to explore this amazing part of our countryside by taking a river trip on one of our boats, please get in
Sudbury, our volunteers also operate a much-appreciated Tea Room at the Granary in Sudbury and help with numerous visits by local schools to our Visitor Education Centre at Cornard Lock, enabling children to learn about the river’s history and ecology. Volunteers also help to maintain the numerous jetties and keep the river itself in good condition by clearing fallen trees, encroaching and all river users.
Volunteers Welcome!
HADLEIGH
A4 card cover 56 pages
illustrated throughout with maps, documents, old picture postcards and colour photographs.
On sale in Hadleigh High Street at No.37 Idler Bookshop and No.68 Keith Avis Printers, and at Hollow Trees Farm Shop, Semer PRICE £10.
Brett Valley Lodge No. 9479
Meet and Dine at The Town Hall, Hadleigh Fourth Friday in September, November, January, March and May
any
bvsec@hotmail.co.uk
jimlunn@live.co.uk dhow921568@aol.com
USED VEHICLES FORSALE
Hadleigh Hares
with an added stretch on a BMX track. This year, the organisers introduced a new challenge – a very big, steep man-made hill! The descent proved just as testing.
followed home by Rob Taylor, Richard Cowley and Andrew Cross
highlights of this venue is the on-site café, so naturally a post-run celebration was in order.
although there was still plenty of mud. The picturesque course takes runners past a Tudor house, around a lake and through a full ladies’ team, while James, Richard, Tom Cowley, Rob and Andrew made up the men’s team. James pushed hard to secure an impressive 7th place. The men put in strong performances and
to
Horseheath Racecourse for the
Mother Nature threw everything at them – rain, sleet and snow – making the already undulating course even muddier than usual, with the added joy of running through the splash not once, but twice! Rob
newcomers Anne Herbert and Bonnie McGill completed the ladies’ running all round, especially given the conditions. With cross-country season now behind us, we can turn our focus to the spring road races – which will make a very welcome change. 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!
Hadleigh Rugby Club
England and Harlequins player comes to Layham Road, Hadleigh! It was such a privilege to watch Connie Powell working with 40 girls from across Eastern Counties and girls from Essex lit up as Connie gave them feedback on all aspects of the game.
skill of choosing the correct type of pass. The younger girls then headed inside for their question-and-answer session with Connie and a sausage roll to warm them up. All U12s and U14s girls then began work on decision making at the breakdown, throwing in the lineout, scrum half passing and drop kicks. It’s safe to say that all players took something positive away and, who knows, some might want to make it as a professionals in the future.
What a morning of rugby – thank you Connie – we can't wait to see you back in Hadleigh and thanks to everyone who helped make the day a very rememberable one.
Sarah Bartholomew
Find us on Facebook - https://hadleighrfc.rfu.club. Visit us at Hadleigh RFC, Layham Road Sports Ground, Layham Road, Hadleigh IP7 5NE
Hadleigh Cricket Club
Part-Time Bar Work
September). Mainly on Saturdays and Sundays but there may
You'll need to be over18 and have the right personality to
We'll provide training, a uniform, and a good rate of pay. If you'd like more information, please email: simon.gladwell@copdockmill.co.uk for the full Job Description. Closing date of 8th March 2026
SELECTED USED CARS
elmsett
Flood Lighting
Parking available adjacent to unit www.elmsettstorshops.co.uk
Farm, Elmsett
01473 822162 M: 07767 290 469
M S L Plumbing and Heating
Mark Carey
Plumbing & Heating Engineer
General Plumbing including Bathrooms, Showers, Radiators, Toilets and Taps No job too small
Friendly, reliable service Over 15 years experience
Pest Control .07919 287656 Picture Framing 07769 858076
Specialist with 40yrs experience
•Flat Roofing including re-decking
•Guttering, Fascias, Soffits and Bargeboards uPVC
•Pitched Roof & Chimney Repairs
Call Brian today for a free quote Mobile: 07860 775509
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.
