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January 2026 | Issue 244 Moreton Hall & Southgate Edition

What’s on in

JANUARY Community NEWS

LOCAL

Businesses Home &

LIFESTYLE

Award winning care homes We’re proud to be recognised for our excellence in care, winning more awards than any other provider in the last three years. If you’re considering a care home, call 0330 822 2850 or visit careuk.com/suffolk Rated

9.9

out of 10 on carehome.co.uk

Trusted to care

Davers Court care home Glastonbury Court care home Bury St Edmunds

Welcome to the January issue Happy New Year and welcome to our January issue! As the festive decorations come down and the year stretches out ahead, January is the perfect time to reset, refocus and gently ease into new routines – or simply enjoy a slower pace after all the excitement of December. This month’s magazine is full of ideas to inspire a healthy and happy start to the year. Whether you’re keen to try a new hobby, boost your fitness, or just pick up a few wellbeing tips, you’ll find plenty to dip into at your own pace. We’re also excited to share a little look ahead to February, with a Valentine’s Dance featuring the acclaimed Marrakesh Band. Tickets are just £10 per person, and it’s shaping up to be a wonderful evening of live music and dancing – see page 16 to find out more. Don’t miss our simple lemon pudding recipe on page 42, a true family favourite, and for the kids, a fun polar bear craft from Michelle at Crafty Foxes on page 48. However you’re starting the year, we hope this issue brings a smile and a little inspiration along the way. Have a fantastic January, take care, and we’ll see you again in February!

Gemma

www.burystedmundsdirectories.co.uk TEL:

A M P L I F Y. DESIGN & PRINT

Design & Artwork: www.amplifydesign.co.uk Bury St Edmunds Directories, Field Close, Beyton, Suffolk IP30 9AW Find us on social media:

Want to advertise your business? Call Jeremy Procter on:

jeremy@burystedmundsdirectories.co.uk

VISIT OUR WEBSITE:

studio@burystedmundsdirectories.co.uk

Publisher:

01284 765092

Editor

EMAIL:

GET IN TOUCH

Jeremy

ADVERTISING/COPY DEADLINE FOR FEBRUARY 2026 ISSUE:

21st January 2026

01284 765092

While all reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included in the Bury St Edmunds Directories, the publishers take no responsibility for the accuracy of statements made by contributors or advertisers, or for loss arising from non-publication or misprint of any advertisement. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Design and compilation copyright 2026 © Jeremy Procter, Director, The Bury St Edmunds Directories.

SEE PAGE 42 FOR THIS MONTH’S RECIPE

Lemon pudding

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STEWART BRACEY Painter & Decorator INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING Based in Bury St. Edmunds, we offer the highest quality workmanship. No job is too large or small. CALL TODAY TO DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT

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JANUARY 2026 | 5

VOGUE A Family Run Independent Business Est.1982

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Carpets, Carpet Tiles, Vinyl, Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Wood Sanding. We offer a full design, measuring &Engineered fitting service & our& prices are some of the most affordable around. no measuring longer have showroom We offer a full We design, and afitting service and&our prices are some of the most affordable around. ALL but pattern books samples are available on request. We no longer have a showroom but pattern books and RESIDENTIAL are available on request. & COMMERCIAL www.voguefloors.co.uk samples • sales@voguefloors.co.uk PROJECTS www.voguefloors.co.uk • sales@voguefloors.co.uk COVERED.

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l Concrete Mixers to Sanders l Mini Excavators to Rollers l Disc Cutters to Lighting Towers l Carpet Cleaners l Wallpaper Strippers l Concrete Breakers

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6 | JANUARY 2026

Kelly

Shani

Levette

Helen

07792 603204

01842 820001

07799 304864

07355 810381

Monday 5.30pm Southgate Community Centre

Tuesday 5.30pm & 7pm New Bury Community Centre

Wednesday 5.30pm Westbury Community Centre

Friday 7.30am, 9.30am & 11am Southgate Community Centre

Thursday 8am, 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7pm Moreton Hall Community Centre Saturday 7am, 8.30am & 10am Southgate Community Centre

Meet your local Consultants

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SOUTHGATE

Community Centre

THANK YOU AND HAPPY NEW YEAR! The generosity of our fantastic Southgate, Nowton, and Hardwick community is beyond belief. The response to our Winter Hardship Initiative was simply phenomenal. The volume of donations delivered to the Community Centre on Saturday 13th December was incredible and extraordinary. Thanks so much to everyone who cared and shared, especially the fellowship that is Southgate Church, Southgate’s Slimming World and the wider Southgate brotherhood, sisterhood and residents. Your contributions and donations will have benefited so many families and individuals not just at Christmas but in the weeks and months beyond when times can be even more challenging. Our responsibility and duty now is to ensure we reach out to anyone and everyone that needs support and the benevolence of so many is distributed to bring comfort and joy to those struggling and suffering hardship.

BINGO at 7pm

Friday 9th January Friday 6th February

(Week earlier due to Valentine’s Dance)

VALENTINE’S DANCE

Friday 13th February For the second year we will be hosting a Valentine’s Dance with the acclaimed Marrakesh Band. With tickets just £10 per person, bring your own food and tipple it will be another amazing night – see page 16 for further details.

Southgate Church mounted its annual Christmas event for the whole community in the Main Hall in early December. The place was teeming with all ages with games, crafts, singing and puppet shows. There was also a telling of the Christmas story with a cast of actors spread throughout the hall. Plus a visit from Father Christmas. A good time was had by all at this free event.

Visit the centre website: www.southgatecommunity.org.uk

Anita4Bowen Bowen: A gentle treatment particularly successful in treating Back and Knee problems, Sciatica, Frozen Shoulder, Tennis Elbow, Asthma , Sinus and Stress. Bowen can be performed through clothing. Anita is qualified to advanced level, has worked in Bosnia, also with Help the Heroes, and has 23 years experience. Available at: Risbygate Sports Club & Barrow.

New Boiler Installs Full Central Heating Systems Heating System Upgrades Landlord Gas Safety Certificates Boiler Services and Repairs General Plumbing Repairs and Installations Radiator Installations Complete Bathroom Renovation Underfloor Heating

07446 678782 cleverplumbing@yahoo.com

M: 07960 452343

12 | JANUARY 2026

FENCING by D. PERRIN Established 1996

• Quality treated fencing supplied & erected • Gates & frames • Galvanised gate furniture • Concrete & wooden posts

• Concrete & wooden gravel boards • All types of fence panels available (treated) • Old fencing cleared • Excellent quotes returned promptly • Professional, tidy & reliable service

Call David on 01284 706484 or 07930 976824 www.dperrin.uk

Hair by Sophie. MOBILE HAIRDRESSER Graduate stylist with 2 years experience, specialising in women’s hair offering the following services: • Cut & Blowdries • Blowdries • Restyles • Colours & Highlights • Styling (curling or straightening) • Children’s Cuts • Hair-ups (proms, parties & more)

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For price list or more information, please call or text: 07880 595116 or email: sophiet8888@gmail.com

Happy New Year! Come and Visit Our Showroom! Discover our extensive range of stylish internal doors – perfect for every home at competitive prices. Showroom Opening Hours Monday to Thursday 8am to 5pm Friday 8am to 4pm We look forward to welcoming trade and retail customers!

Please mention ‘Bury St Edmunds Directory’ for further discounts when contacting us.

8 Chapel Pond Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP32 7HT Telephone: 01284 700468 • Email: sales@dorjam.co.uk • www.dorjam.co.uk JANUARY 2026 | 15

Valentine’s Day Dance

F t

W f

to cing

Dan

O B o p

the

Bring y Snack our own s, Nib & Drin bles ks

Friday 13th February 8pm - 11.30pm at the

Southgate Community Centre Heron Road, Bury St. Edmunds IP33 2QA

Tickets £10 T: 01284 703705

or Email: marrakeshband@gmail.com or phone Andy on 07769 897483 16 | JANUARY 2026

O T c

V C O

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Lisa Donahue

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Compassionate coaching for: • carer role • domestic abuse Based in • weight management Bury • stress St • anxiety Edmunds • low self esteem • focus & motivation • neurodivergent family support • mindfulness & emotional issues

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www.donahuewellbeingcoach.com JANUARY 2026 | 19

Registration EQA20220328 EMCC

Sale items JANUARY

Do you have any nearly new or unused items that are of no use to you, other than creating unnecessary clutter? Why not try to recycle them and gather a few extra pounds in the process? Please include: Brief description of the item, the price and your telephone number.

PLEASE NOTE:

List items FOR SALE free of charge to Moreton Hall and Southgate Residents, email: studio@burystedmundsdirectories.co.uk

The publisher can take no responsibility for the claims made by sellers regarding the goods for sale, nor are they liable for any claim with regards to the item or any payment transactions between buyer & seller.

CHILD’S ROCKING TOY Very good condition. £10. Tel: 01284 754295

STAND HAIRDRYER Good working order. £10. Tel: 01284 754295

BELDRAY WALL MOUNTED ELECTRIC FIRE WITH LOG EFFECT PAT tested. £99. Tel: 07870 458802

NEST OF TABLES All wood. £10. Tel: 01284 754295

SONY TV Good working order. £20. Tel: 01284 754295

20 | JANUARY 2026

DECORATING by D. PERRIN Established 1996

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• Prompt Quotations • Competitive Rates

• Reliable, Friendly & Tidy Service • Many Returning Customers

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Call David on 01284 706484 or 07930 976824 www.dperrin.uk JANUARY 2026 | 21

Langleys Conservatories & Windows Your local family run business established in 1987

Telephone 01284 760345 Visit: www.langleysconservatories.co.uk Email: enquiries@langleysconservatories.co.uk The best in energy efficient doors and windows! Improve the insulation values and beauty of your home with the company you can rely on. �eeling the chill this winter� hea�ng bills ge�ng more and more alarming� Then maybe its �me to invest in new energy e�cient double or triple glazing from the local company trading since 1986 in Bury St Edmunds. We don’t do gimmicks or engineered discounts, we just offer great value for money with a first class service, premium products and guarantees to back it all up. Give us a call to arrange a free quota�on on 01284 760345. �on’t forget to check out www. Langleysconservatories.co.uk to see all of the home improvement services we offer.

Call today on 01284 760345 or email enquiries@langleysconservatories.co.uk

JANUARY 2026 | 23

E S

The best way to care Pet Health Plan

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JANUARY 2026 | 25

Guests at their dining tables

St. Edmund’s Day 2025 Fundraiser Celebrated in Style On November 19th, Bury Abbey Rotary held its annual St. Edmund’s Day Dinner in the magnificent St Edmundsbury Cathedral. The evening draws together residents and local businesses for a grand celebration of the town’s patron saint. Additionally, this year, members from Kevelaer Rotary, Bury St Edmund’s twin town in Germany, joined in the festivities. A fabulous sum of around £29,000 was raised for four local charities: My Wish, Gatehouse, Cancer Support Suffolk, and The Abbey of St Edmund - Reborn. President Elect Max Weatherby and the Dean of St Edmundsbury, Joe Hawes, provided guests with insights into the impactful work of these organisations.

As the Cathedral tower gleamed in purple, 336 guests were welcomed to a glamorous black-tie event that fostered community connections through an evening rich in elegance, inspiration, and philanthropy. Guests began their night with a champagne reception, accompanied by musical performances from Brigetta Kenyon. Next, they enjoyed a delectable three-course meal prepared by Crown Caterers Cambridge. The evening featured engaging activities, including stand-up bingo, a quiz on St Edmund, and an exciting raffle. Mark Murphy MBE, a wellknown local radio personality and avid supporter of St 26 | JANUARY 2026

Edmund, entertained attendees with his humorous talk, “It Shouldn’t Happen to a Radio Presenter.” The excitement didn’t end there. A vibrant auction led by Ed Crichton from Lacy Scott & Knight featured 12 special lots, sparking friendly competition and generous bids. In her closing address, Melanie Lesser, President of Bury Abbey Rotary, thanked the main sponsors and the dedicated volunteers who helped make the event so successful. Since the event, the club has received many compliments from attendees, reflecting the community spirit of the evening.

Photos by Bury Abbey Rotarian Jamie Dalrymple.

Cathedral Tower lit purple

Make 2026 a year to remember Happy new year. We hope you have had a wonderful festive season and are ready to face a new year. How about making this the year that you take on a challenge. We have something for everyone when it comes to ticking some of those life goals!

National Three Peaks

London to Paris cycle ride

Take on Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in just three days. You will trek 22 miles, ascending a total of 3,050 meters as you conquer the three highest peaks iin Scotland, England and Wales.

Take on one of Europe’s most iconic cycling challenges and ride from London to Paris in an unforgettable journey.

(June or September)

Skydive

The ultimate challenge! Sign up for our annual skydive on Saturday 13th June at Beccles airfield. You will experience the thrill of freefalling 13,000 feet in just 40 seconds, all while making a real difference.

Yorkshire Three Peaks (July)

What a way to experience beautiful Yorkshire. You will cover 24 miles in one day, with over 1,400 meters of ascent, as you conquer Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough in 12 hours.

(July or September)

And of course, if these physical challenges aren’t your thing, we are now taking team bookings for our Grow Your Dough Challenge for 2026. You gather a team; we give you £50 and you have three months to see how much you make it ‘grow’.

To sign up to any of our events, please go to www.wishcharity.co.uk/events or email us at fundraising@wsh.nhs.uk to find out more.

Find out more about My WiSH Charity at @mywishcharity

mywishcharity

www.mywishcharity.co.uk

Welcome to... Hardwick Primary School

This month as we start a New Year and a new term, we look back on a show stopping week of fantastic performances before Christmas. Our youngest children truly shone as they performed their nativity, Hey Ewe. With beautiful singing and

confident acting and speaking, it was a wonderful way to begin our Christmas festivities. Later in the week, our oldest children took to the stage to perform a selection of wonderful Christmas songs. We were treated to incredible solo and duet performances, singing from our Theatre Club 30 | JANUARY 2026

Choir, and a delightful rendition of a Christmas classic on the glockenspiels by Year 4. It was a truly special week, with every child included and every performance celebrated. Hayley Clarke, Headteacher 01284 755 424

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Will I get paid for the electricity I don’t use? Yes, your energy provider will pay you When might the system pay for itself? Around 8 years at current prices How much would all this cost? Approximately £7,499 inc VAT and all installation costs

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• PC & Laptop Upgrades • Data Recovery and Protection • Anti-Virus and Firewall Software • 1 to 1 Training • Websites & E-mail Hosting

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JANUARY 2026 | 43

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LATEST NEWS Happy New Year from the Moreton Hall & Eastgate Ward Residents Association. As you may be aware from the AGM on Monday 8th December 2025, Moreton Hall Residents Association are now combined and working closely with the Eastgate Ward Residents Committee. We felt that the two committees working together on projects and ideas is beneficial to the area with over 10,000 residents within the combined wards so now Moreton Hall & Eastgate Residents Association. Thank you for those that have supported myself as Chair over the last 2 years and Andy Vice Chair over the last year as well as the Committee Members team. Also a thank you to the Councillors that turn up and support our meetings, gaining feedback and interaction with the community is a vital key to understand the issues within the Moreton Hall/Eastgate areas. Thank you to our longstanding Committee Member Mick Gaffney who has made and built some bird & bat boxes for the area (he is also part of the Men’s Shed if anyone is interested in joining), with the support of Jim & Jana key Wildlife Champions in the area hopefully these will be installed and used by our wildlife. Much appreciated to all parties. Next Community Litter Pick Dates: 11am meet@ Moreton Hall Community Centre – all welcome, under 12’s to be supervised. 8th March 2026, 14th June 2026, 13th September 6th December

GET IN TOUCH

Moreton Hall & Eastgate Ward

NEWS

We are delighted to hear that there will be a brand new Teen Chill coming to Moreton Hall. In our Big Listen survey, children and adults alike told us how there are not enough accessible opportunities for young people in the area. Thank you to Bury St Edmunds Town Council for supporting this project which will provide teenagers in the area with a safe space, access to a trusted adult and the opportunity to spend time with other young people. These types of spaces can make a massive difference to the mental health and confidence of young people. As a Residents Association we look forward to it opening and helping to promote it so we can make sure it is a provision which is used.” Next Residents Meeting Dates: 7.30pm @ Moreton Hall Community Centre – all welcome. 16th March 2026, 15th June 2026, 14th September, 7th December 2026. AGM TBC.

As chairman, I am happy to raise any points from residents raised at the meetings and with local councilllors. But you can also direct any questions you may have to your local councillors: Councillor Birgitte Mager email birgitte.mager@westsuffolk.gov.uk Councillor Rowena Lindberg email rowena.lindberg@westsuffolk.gov.uk Councillor Peter Armitage email peter.armitage@westsuffolk.gov.uk Councillor Peter Thompson email peter.thompson@suffolk.gov.uk

Moreton Hall & Eastgate Ward Residents Association, Chairman: Melanie Soanes Email mhraquestions@gmail.com Vice Chair email: mhravicechair@gmail.com 44 | JANUARY 2026

JANUARY 2026 | 45

NEW ARCHLEY LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS

Garden Design Service

Accurately scaled 3D drawings of your new project

A simple creative process: • Book a consultation: • Constructing your vision • At this stage, we can We’ll set a time to discuss - using measurements supply you with stills of your vision, either in person we took from our original the ongoing project, or remotely if preferred. meeting and the latest making sure you’re satisfied with certain technology in building/ • During our garden/ rendering software, elements of the design. driveway design we can create stunning consultation, we'll discuss visuals showing the • Once perfected, the your ideas and budget, potential your spaces have. drawing can be converted explore how you want to We try to suggest the best into a walkthrough-style use your garden and its movie, showcasing every products possible style, and provide you to satisfy your vision. aspect of your project. with some content to spark inspiration. We’ll Experience your new project before any work also assess your garden's design potential, commences. Being in the know is crucial when it comes to including its views, your landscape project, especially when it comes to cost. levels, and access.

Call us on 01284 724486 or 07860 577557 for more information.

GARDEN DESIGN • DRIVEWAYS • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING

Anything is possible, from the smallest path or water feature to a full garden redesign or largest estate driveway.

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Craft Corner Happy New Year to you all! Welcome to my first 2026 crafty column of the year. Every month I share a crafty activity for you to try at home. Check out my facebook page for more info www.facebook.com/ thecraftyfoxes or visit www.thecraftyfoxes.co.uk

This months’ make uses old newspaper and focuses on cold winter climates and polar bears.

Michelle x C

You will need: Scrap newspaper, glue stick, blue paper (old wrapping paper will do) white paper and a black pen. Variety of circle objects like Sellotape, bowls and cups. Draw around 4 different sized circles from newspaper. Try to use text not pictures. 2 large for head and body, 1 smaller for mouth, 2 smaller for ears.

CMY

Hole punch white dots for snow. Cut a wiggly line in the blue paper to make mountains and stick onto A4 white paper background. Assemble the bear together by sticking the circles down to form your polar bear. Cut out a darker piece of newspaper in a triangle shape to make the nose. Add white circles for eyes and colour in the pupils with a black pen. Also add a line from the nose to make the mouth.

TOP TIP… What other collage animals can you make? Try a penguin, fox or snow leopard. Take pics and send me them so I can see how you get on.

www.thecraftyfoxes.co.uk 48 | JANUARY 2026

r C

BURY ST EDMUNDS

Cricket Club

U11 & U9 (all primary school aged children), with Alex Malcom, David Page and Kash Waheed 4-5:30pm, on 25th January, 8th February, 22nd February,

Bury St Edmunds 1st team 2025

Bury St Edmunds Cricket Club commence their winter coaching sessions on Sunday 18th January 2026 at the Victory Ground Sports Hall. 10 weeks of cricket will take place for all ages and abilities from 4-7pm, it will be a big season in 2026 with two Saturday teams in the highest leagues possible. New members of all ages and abilities are very welcome.

8th March, 22nd March Cost £40 for all 5 sessions or £10/session. New members permitted a free first session. U13 & U15 (secondary Y7-Y10), with Jamie Grove and Martin Lee 4-5:30 pm, on 18th January, 1st February, 15th February, 1st March (indoor matches, 4-7pm), 15th March. Cost £40 for all 5 sessions or £10/session. New members permitted a free first session. Women and Girls’ softball training, with Graham Balaam and Ben Whittaker 5:30-7pm, on 25th January, 8th February, 22nd February, 8th March, 22nd March.

Cost £40 for all 5 sessions or £10/session. New members permitted a free first session. U17 Training, with Sam Pennell and for adult players at least two nets will be available. 5:30-7pm, 18th January, 15th February, 15th March. Cost £24 for three sessions or £10 per session. Payment can be paid via Pitchero see details on the website www.bsecc.co.uk. Indoor Youth Matches 5:30-7pm on 1st February (girls) (Justin Bishop) 5:30-7pm on 1st March (mixed) (an extension of the U13/15 training).

For further information go to the clubs website at:

www.bsecc.co.uk 50 | JANUARY 2026

letters & parcels travel services cash deposits & withdrawals global money transfer bill payments car tax & driving licences passports

Symonds Road Bury St Edmunds IP32 7EW

everything you would expect from your Post Office® Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm Saturday 8am - 3pm WE ARE CLOSED SUNDAYS

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Telephone: 01284 769841

Advertise in the Bury St Edmunds Directory For more information, please call 01284 765092 or email jeremy@burystedmundsdirectories.co.uk

JANUARY 2026 | 51

Creche available at all services

Services

Events

SUNDAY 4TH JAN 9am: Holy Communion

WEDNESDAY 7TH, 14TH, 21ST & 28TH JAN 7pm: Prayer meeting on zoom

(No singing) Epiphany

10.30am: First Sunday!

(Our interactive Service for all ages)

SUNDAY 11TH JAN 10.30am: Morning Worship Baptism of Christ SUNDAY 18TH JAN 10.30am: Holy Communion SUNDAY 25TH JAN 10.30am: Morning Worship Various evenings Usually from 7pm Home Groups. If you are keen to share your faith journey with others who can help with studying the Bible and sharing life’s challenges. Our Associate Minister David will call to discuss the options SATURDAY 3RD JAN Soul Food At Moreton Hall Pub

10.30am-noon. Come and think about life’s big questions over breakfast (sorry everyone has to pay for their own breakfast). All welcome and you don’t have to be a Christian to join in the conversation!

Please remember to contact church office for zoom link – 01284 725391

TUESDAY 6TH JAN 10am-12pm: Christ Church Crafters NEW GROUP Bring your craft & ideas to share Painting, crocheting, knitting all welcome

TUESDAY 20TH JAN 10.30am-12pm: Coffee Club THURSDAY 8TH, 15TH, 22ND & 29TH JAN 10am-12pm – Decaf - for families/carers & living with dementia

11.15am-12.15pm –

Positive Steps strength & balance exercises with Parish Nurse Lesley

FRIDAY 16TH & 30TH JAN 10.30am- 12pm – Stay & Play

for family and carers of pre school children & babies interactive play and snakes and time to chat. £3 for a family with two children + £1 per additional child.

Christ Church Moreton Hall, Lawson Place, Bury St Edmunds, IP32 7EW www.ccmh.org.uk www.facebook.com/ChristChurchMoretonHall

Are you good with time? Written by Samantha Reid, A member of Christ Church As we reflect on how December went, I wonder if you think like myself, how much easier time is when you are busy? I find that December is full of dates when things need to be completed: Cards written, presents wrapped, meals out, buying food, it all involves sticking to a schedule. When we arrive in January, we often feel discombobulated because there are no tight deadlines, no dates we need to complete things by, and very often this brings a feeling of the obis. We can’t always focus too far ahead and yet somehow we need to get through January. (Apologies if you were born in January as this can be a positive focus on time). Before clocks were invented our day was decided when the sun came up. Today, we can very easily lose track of time as we can put a light on just as easily as we can shut

all the light out. The latest research shows that we don’t just have one body clock but hundreds of them. This can be our digestive system, our liver, or our nervous system, each one has a schedule which can affect our well-being. How well do you feel right now as you read this? We often feel that advances in science are going to solve all our problems, but very often, when we go back to what God provided for us to exist, we notice how important the natural world is to our health. Having a faith builds strength, and creates a schedule that helps us focus on simple things. In January we know that very gradually our light in the day is beginning to extend. There is freshness in the air to clear away the cobwebs, and maybe sort out that draw full of things you have kept ‘just in case’. We have memories of JANUARY 2026 | 53

meals and moments with our friends and loved one. But most importantly we have time. As you contemplate the value of time to you, are you in tune with your body clocks? Do you feel out of rhythm in some way? Perhaps a visit to your doctors, not because you are ill, but because you wish to stay well, and having a free health check is a step in the right direction. If you would like more time to chat with a nurse, Lesley our parish nurse can see you during the day in confidence and help you on that journey just call 01284 725391. However as your January passes by, I hope you can enjoy the little things each day brings. If you like anything crafty, you will see we have a new Craft group at Church so check out our activities.

GREENING YOUR FINANCES

Happy new year, here’s hoping 2026 will deliver some positive news, maybe, just maybe media outlets will turn over a new leaf and give us some joyful stories amongst the usual depressing reports. Maybe a forlorn hope, but who knows! Over the last decade I have been giving you ideas on ways to reduce your carbon footprint, ways to reduce waste and most of the time, ways to save money. I hope this has been useful and you are all benefiting from these thoughts. Something a little different this month, we will have a quick look at greening your finances. If you are paying monthly contributions into a pension pot or have already built up a substantial sum for your latter years, do you know where your money is invested? It’s now many years since I checked out the destination of my own contributions, and to my horror a substantial sum was spread amongst companies who have some of the worst environmental credentials possible. One sector being the oil industry.

Now, I am lucky enough to have a financial advisor who was able to search the system and find various organisations that fulfilled my environmental wishes and the money was duly transferred to these funds. Now, here comes the difficult part of this greening process, sometimes the greener funds do not deliver

such large financial growth for your future, and I totally understand that not everyone can afford to make this change. However, if you have a deep green leaning and can ensure sufficient money for your retirement then this is a great thing to do. If it’s not now that you can invest in this way maybe you can make a pledge in your will to help your favourite environmental charity, once you have moved on. It doesn’t have to be much but I’m sure that charity will be grateful for anything you contribute. This financial change takes a large commitment and if this is a bit too drastic, then there are other ways to change your finances. How about your credit card, is this with a company who don’t care about our world. A quick google check should deliver some useful suggestions and you can soon find a credit card that may sit better with your own environmental aspirations. Then there’s your telephone tariff, I have seen that Dale Vince of Ecotricity has set up a new company called ‘Ecotalk’ they will be delivering

all their profits into a fund to buy land, returning it to nature. On top of that Chris Packham has been recruited as chief ecologist. The combination of Dale and Chris, makes the dream team to help our environment and increase biodiversity. I for one will be swapping very soon. I have mentioned Dale Vince and Ecotricity in many previous articles, you may remember that Ecotricity is one of the greenest power companies in UK. Their prices are slightly higher than the big 6, but you can be pretty sure that any payments made to this company go towards developing renewable energy. In contrast, many of the larger power companies who declare their commitment to renewable funds do not produce their own energy from solar, wind, geothermal etc. But instead, they buy credits for renewable energy from other organisations. My investigations into this world indicate a world of cloak and daggers and the truth may be a little fuzzy. Maybe an article for the future. This is just a warning that things may not always be as they seem. Look beyond the headlines for the truth.

I hope these ideas give you some food for thought, and of course I only suggest you act if this will not cause any financial difficulty for your future. Good luck.

Please check out our nature reserve in West Stow www.larkwoodlakes.co.uk

If you are interested in a Nature-walk around Larkwood lakes please contact me (see below), we take small groups of 4 to 10 and charge £10 per person – all proceeds going to maintaining the nature reserve. e. tony@larkwoodlakes.co.uk

We have loads more ideas at ecofrenzy.com to help our wonderful world.

ecofrenzy15

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EcoFrenzy is a not-for-profit organisation founded by Tony Whittingham. If you want new ideas to help you save money and CO₂ please visit www.ecofrenzy.com/contact-us or email tony@ecofrenzy.com

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JANUARY 2026 | 55

YOUR LOCAL CHURCH IN THE COMMUNITY CENTRE

I WILL STAND AT THE DOOR There is a famous painting by the Victorian artist Holman Hunt called Light of the World.

at the outset of World War 2. “And I said to the man at the gate of the year, give me a light that I might tread safely into the unknown. He replied: Go out into the darkness and put you hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.”

Jesus stands outside a door which does not have an external handle on. He has to wait to be ‘let in’ by someone to open it. Could this be you? Jesus comes to each of us and invites us and waits for us to open the door of our life. He won’t force his way in. If we leave him outside there is where he stays. But to everyone who opens the door, we are promised all the blessings which he came to deliver when he became a baby born in a manger. Just as we stand at the threshold of the door of

Jesus came as the light of the world and waits to you to respond to him in all the current uncertainties of our world.

a new year – we can open that door to a new life in 2026 by welcoming him in. Minnie Haskins wrote a poem called ‘God Knows’ quoted by King George VI in his Christmas address

Next year why not come and visit us at Southgate Church? You can be assured of a very warm welcome. Fay Jones

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

For further details of all our activities visit our website www.southgatechurch.org.uk

What’s on in JANUARY

Sundays 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th January

10.30am Morning Worship services with groups for children of all ages Service on 18th January includes Holy Communion

Mid-week Communion Service

Wednesdays at 1.15pm in Church Centre.

Thursday Club

Meet on 22nd January at 7.00pm in the Small Hall for a meal of Pizza and Salad (pre-booking essential). All ladies welcome.

CoffeeStop, Mondays, 10am to 12noon in Church Centre Free Coffee, Tea, Cake and Chat.

Friendship Club, for older people

meet in the Church Centre at 2.30pm on Thursday 15th January for a talk by Revd Tiffer Robinson on St Mary’s Church, Past, Present and Future.

During term time, the following midweek groups meet in Church Centre:

Liquid, for young people in school years 8 to 13, Mondays 7pm to 9pm

Southgate Parent & Toddler group (SPOTS),

Wednesdays 9am to 11am.

Youth Club, for school years 5, 6, 7, Thursdays 6.30pm to 7.45pm

Wednesday Gang

and Rock-Solid meet in Hardwick Primary School.

Please contact Jackie Tooley, Administrator on 01284 703705 or email office@southgatechurch.org.uk

Start the new year changing lives – volunteer with Bury Drop In Volunteers aged 18 and over typically commit 4–5 hours per a session on a regular basis, and a full induction, safeguard training, and shadowing opportunities are provided to ensure every person feels confident and supported in their role.

As the New Year begins, many of us take the opportunity to set fresh goals and invest our time in something meaningful. Volunteering is one of the most effective ways to do this. Research consistently shows that volunteering boosts happiness, strengthens mental wellbeing, and reduces social isolation –benefits that endure well beyond January. Bury Drop In is a volunteerled charity supporting people who are homeless or vulnerably housed in the heart of Bury St Edmunds.

Our work is made possible by the dedication of our volunteer team, who provide practical help, emotional support, and a welcoming place of safety for those facing hardship. Our volunteers support the charity in a wide range of roles, including: • Befriending guests and offering a listening ear • Welcoming and registering new guests • Supporting the running of weekly Drop In sessions • Helping with safeguarding, donations, and general session coordination

Kathy, one of our longstanding volunteers, reflects on what she enjoys the most about volunteering: “Meeting our guests and being able to interact with them, hearing their stories and being a listening ear.” Kathy joined the charity in 2016 and continues to play an essential role in supporting guests with emergency provisions including toiletries, sleeping bags, and tents. As many people set resolutions to improve their fitness or take up a new hobby, we invite you to do something that will make a real and lasting difference in your community. By volunteering with Bury Drop In, you will meet new people, develop new skills, and help create a positive impact for those who need it most.

To find out more about volunteering opportunities, visit www.burydropin.org/volunteer or email volunteer@burydropin.org. 58 | JANUARY 2026

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What’s on Please note: all correct at time of going to press, but please check for updates directly with the venue.

Cinema Marty Supreme (15) Release date: 26 December 2025 Running time: 149 minutes

Marty Mauser, a young man with a dream no one respects, goes to hell and back in pursuit of greatness. Cast: Sandra Bernhard, Fran Drescher, Abel Ferrara, Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa A’zion, Timothée Chalamet, Kevin O’Leary, Tyler Okonma.

Find out more at: www.cineworld.co.uk

Music

Theatre

Wonder of Stevie Thursday 22 January

The ultimate celebration of the genius of Stevie Wonder! Voted one of Britain’s top soul singers, mesmeric vocalist Noel McCalla, award-winning saxophonist Derek Nash (Jools Holland’s R&B Orchestra) and their world-class band present a diverse catalogue of Stevie Wonder classics from albums including ‘Signed, Sealed & Delivered’, ‘Talking Book’, ‘Innervisions’, ‘Songs in the Key of Life’ and ‘Hotter than July’. Wonder of Stevie perform hit after hit, from dance floor classics ‘I Wish’ and ‘Superstition’ to beautiful arrangements of ‘My Cherie Amour’ and ‘I Just Called to Say I Love You’.

Flowers and Friendship Bracelets Sunday 1st February The Ultimate Pop Concert! Get ready for a dazzling explosion of Music, Dance, and Excitement as Flowers and Friendship Bracelets takes to the stage! Come and join us for the ultimate pop concert and celebrate the biggest hits from five of the hottest artistes of the moment. Flowers and Friendship Bracelets creates unforgettable memories for children and families.

Find out more at: theatreroyal.org

Find out more at: theapex.co.uk 60 | JANUARY 2026

JANUARY 2026 | 61

THE 19TH HOLE BY ADAM TRETT, PGA PROFESSIONAL GOLF COACH Email: adamtrettpga@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: Adam Trett - ADT Golf Coaching Welcome back to the 19th hole and HAPPY NEW YEAR. Here’s hoping we all stay healthy and happy this year and that we can play some good golf along the way. I hope you have all had a great festive period and it’s allowed you time with family and friends. I don’t

normally play much this time of year but I have been able to play and really enjoyed it. That being said it has got me thinking about my golf for 2026. I have made a golfing resolution this year… to complete some technique work and then play more competitive golf in the PGA regional pro am’s.

COACHES CORNER: PRACTICE BETTER THIS YEAR practice of the areas you are working on is key.

Question for you... How GOOD was your practice last year? If your answer is always amazing then perfect, do this same again this year. However most of us will admit that at times our practice was just hitting balls with little to no plan. So this year let’s plan and try your hardest to stick to it… What do you need to improve this year to lower your scores? If the year is starting with some lessons to help you achieve your goals this year then quality

If you are heading to the range to practice maybe consider these points: • Don’t just pour the basket of balls out and start hitting have a plan. Hit balls in sets of FOUR and each FOUR shots have a plan… if that’s technique then make sure there are plenty of practice swings before hitting each ball. • Leave the rest of the basket away from the hitting area so you have to have a break from practice to get your next set of FOUR balls. • Make it fun, make up games to play during practices. These games will allow you to test your technical work and will break up your practice time. • Practice like you play, hit a tee shot, approach shot and then a pitch or a chip shot. When doing this make sure you set

target areas to aim for. Play the course you play the most in practice at the range, this will make you change set up positions, speed of swings and alignment. • NEXT LEVEL - Record your game scores and repeat them over the next few months and see if your practice is helping you perform better. Let’s play better this year.

PGA TOUR Sony Open in Hawaii The American Express Farmers Insurance Open DP WORLD TOUR Dubai Invitational PICK OF THE MONTH

Hero Dubai Desert Classic Bahrain Championship

I hope these practice tips helped to shape your start to practicing this year. If you are struggling with this or any other aspect of your game, then I would be pleased to assist you in enjoying this great game more.

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