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As information is fed to us you will be able to find Reports upon the various events held in our villages. To provide information - click on the link: Contact Webmaster
Chediston Christmas Cracker!
Thank you to everyone involved in making last Saturday’s Christmas event such a popular and fun day.
The day started with rain, but by 10am the skies had cleared and the sun shone down on what turned out to be a lovely event!
Villagers old and new joined together for fun, games and Christmas celebrations. Children enjoyed finding ‘Rudolph’ where he was hiding around the village, the tombola and various games, as well as a treasure hunt in the church in search of baby Jesus and some chocolate coins. There were also some of the Christmas Fayre favourites, such as the grand raffle and stalls selling festive treats, as well as Joyce’s jams and preserves (I can recommend the runner bean chutney… delicious!) and Judi’s scrumptious Christmas cakes. Julia of St Patricks provided refreshments for all.
It was lovely to put some of the new faces to names and welcome our new villagers, including Rector Dominic Doble. Much chocolate and a vast number of mince pies and festive treats were eaten, everyone enjoyed themselves and the latest tally of everyone’s efforts is a very handsome £829.70 raised for our church.
Autumn Shindig – October 2021
Thank you to the Backwoods Band for a fantastic first gig since lockdown.
Chris Roose reports: It was such a great night last Saturday watching the Backwoods Band and we all felt the urge to toe tap and clap along to the music. There were smiles on lots of faces.
It was good to see a big turn out considering the weather was awful that night. Let’s hope this is just the start of some good social dos in Chediston. I look forward to the next one.
Car boot sale – August 2021
Thank you to Jo Wareham for organising the Chediston Car Boot Sale on 8th August. A total of £125 was raised for the Parish social fund.
Churchyard spruce up – August 2021
Thank you to everyone who helped out at the Churchyard Spruce up, and to Jonny Vaughan for organising everyone. There was much fun and laughter and the churchyard now looks fabulous!
Jubilee Duke reopens – July 2021
A lovely evening in the Pop up Jubilee Duke (Old School Room) was had by all: The first one after lockdown!
Sixteen of us enjoyed the evening, which was a nice number . Six of those were relatively new to Chediston so they were able to put some names to faces.
Such a good time was had that none of us were aware of the storm outside as we were all too busy chatting.
We all look forward to the next opening.
Watch this site for the next date (in August) to be announced!
Chris Roose
Children's Easter trail – Easter Sunday, 4 April 2021
A beautifully sunny Spring morning and once again our streets and fields were filled with laughter and fun as Chediston’s children enjoyed the Easter Sunday trail and games created by Wendy Burroughes.
‘New Dawn’ provided some delicious cakes and snacks for those who needed more than chocolate and showcased a range of plants and homegrown vegetables for sale, and Danny (New Dawn Gardening) was on hand to answer any gardening-related queries.
Thank you so much to Wendy and family (including Peter who was running back and forth directing families to the starting point) and to the Chediston Charity for providing chocolate eggs to reward our exhausted but happy children at the end!
Children's Christmas walking and sticker trail - 12 December 2020
A fantastic morning! Lots of families having lots of fun following the Christmassy sticker trail around Chediston, creating our nativity scenes and eating far too much chocolate!
Thank you to Wendy Burroughs for organising and to the lovely residents who set up sticker stops with treats for the children. The children may not have been able to meet Santa this year but they had a great time and collected their present at the end.
Suffolk Ride and Stride - September 2020
A report from Oliver Wareham of Herne Hill Farm
"Graeme Williams and I rode in the Suffolk Churches Ride and Stride 2020 event on Saturday, 12 September, in aid of the Suffolk Historic Churches Trust. In all, we visited 25 different churches and rode steadfastly for over 40 miles. Never was the maxim “It’s the taking part that counts” more justified than in the case of our respective efforts. We had no need for trendy lycra or state of the art machinery, but relied instead on our trusty Dawes workhorses to guide us from church to church, up hill and down dale. Whoever said that there are no hills in Suffolk never took part in this event. “Winning” for us was just getting home in one piece without falling into a ditch along the way.
Graeme began the ride clad in the red jersey of the winner of the Vuelta d’Espana, but as the day progressed and the sun peeked from behind the clouds, he shed his outer layer and emerged, chrysalis-like, wearing the white jersey of the winner of the Giro d’italia. With his air of a double champion, he was none too impressed by my frequent exhortations that we were on the home stretch; astute Yorkshireman that he is, he’d noticed that we were getting further and further away from Chediston whilst making no visible progress to turn back in the other direction. That’s what cycling through the Saints does to you. A sense of time and place but also a sense of timelessness; you could be anywhere or nowhere. We knew, though, that we were resolutely in Suffolk as the object of our mission was to pay homage to the wonderful churches, each an architectural and cultural gem in its own right, but all rooted in the use of local materials. stone, flint, wood and the occasional thatched roof.
Our journey began and ended at St Mary’s, Chediston, encouraged by the send-off from Sally and Ann. The Covid-19 restrictions had obviously taken their toll, as the teeming, flag-waving crowds that we’d expected to be lining the route were strangely absent and so we experienced something of what it’s like to play a match in an empty stadium. Quite a few of the churches we visited were eerily shut, with just a bottle of hand sanitiser, a biro and a few sheets of paper to mark the fact that there had ever been a human presence. When we did find a manned church, we invariably received a warm, if socially distant, welcome and even in some cases the offer of sweets and refreshments.
There were many highlights and wonderful encounters along the way. To begin with, we were a bit disconcerted at St. Peter’s Holton to discover the churchyard being tended by a man with a scythe lurking among the gravestones, but happily that was not a portent of mishaps to come. At Bramfield church there was a confluence of walkers, riders and drivers as we (distantly) mingled with some of the ‘striders’ as well as participants in a classic car run - a gleaming old Bristol being the pick of the bunch. We also met a cyclist from Cratfield who told us that he was on his way home but we met or crossed him several times later in the day; and even on our last encounter in St. James he still had plans to eke out the home stretch by visiting several more far-flung places before returning for his cup of tea and a hot bath and tend to his saddle-soreness. St Peter’s South Elmham was notable, as the lady minding the church asked us if we knew anything about the history of the church. We professed complete ignorance and had primed ourselves to hear her learned historical lecture on the subtle differences between gothic, romanesque and perpendicular only for her to say that she also knew nothing about the church. Except for one story, probably apocryphal, that the (now ex-) Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone had once lived in one of the pair of cottages next door to the church and had engraved his initials somewhere on the priceless wood carvings. St Michael South Elmham was one of the many gems. Despite the scaffolding obscuring much of the outside of the church, we were able to glimpse the inscription on the sundial - 'Don’t stand gazing - be about your business - only count the sunlit hours’ - which inspired us to new heights and gave fresh impetus to our journey. On a bench outside the church gates, a couple from Bungay sat eating their sandwiches and sheepishly admitted that they had driven to the church. We did not begrudge them that as they were clearly enjoying their day out in the sunshine. And then, as we left the church, we crossed paths with a family of seven, out on their bikes before the ‘rule of six’ would make such outings perilous. The children were lined up in a row like well-ordered ducklings, the smallest at the front with wobbly stabilisers attached to her miniature bicycle. The oldest brought up the rear, shepherded from behind by the anxious parents. He was a young boy, no more than six years’ old, dressed in a stripy top and sporting round glasses, looking much like a prototype for a young Harry Potter ready to feature in a forthcoming prequel.
There was most definitely magic in the air when we visited All Saints church, probably the biggest jewel of them all, hidden in the middle of woods down a track and then across a ploughed field, but a perfect architectural statement of what it is to be a Suffolk church. And yet this was the most frequented of all the churches that we visited, visitors from miles around coming to marvel at the carved wooden roof and to take in the special place. Even a gentleman who has made a pilgrimage there every year for the last twenty years or so, now walking, painfully and slowly, with the aid of two sticks. In Huntingfield, where we stopped to gaze in wonder at the painted ceiling, there was a troupe of volunteers enthusiastically tending the churchyard and gravel paths, ruthlessly attacking the weeds and brambles. We also met three very serious cyclists, all kitted out, who had ridden from Lowestoft at breakfast time and were headed towards Wickham Market next. They did let slip that they were going to wimp out and be driven home rather than riding back, but we were still mildly impressed. We also reminded ourselves that it’s the taking part that counts, not how far you ride. At St George St Cross we observed from the excavations in the graveyard surrounding the church that Suffolk undoubtedly has more rabbits than people. Our relief that the church there is located at the bottom of the hill was tempered by the appreciation that we would have to ride back up the hill to get home, thus avoiding the hill on the other side. At St Margaret’s Ilketshall the formula 1 theme was loosely continued as the two church helpers had arrived on their mobility scooters, both of which were lined up outside the church, pointed and ready for a quick getaway; but one look at the two helpers showed that their racing days were sadly behind them.
At St. Margaret’s South Elmham we marvelled at the fact that the church boasts a real organ, complete with pipework. Sadly it looked as though it was rarely played or at least that it was some time since it had been dusted. The sound of angels singing was not far away as we triumphantly limped into St James South Elmham, knowing that we truly were on the last stretch to home. We met our friend from Cratfield who still had the energy of the Duracell bunny. We were bowed but not beaten, as we still had to make it back to Chediston church before closing time and the victory ceremony, once again ably hosted by Sally and Ann. So we had ridden full circle and completed our circuit with a sense of satisfaction and, surprisingly, pleasure. I could not have hoped for a better riding companion than Graeme, who had the good grace to pace himself so that I could always keep up, even on the most demanding of hills and in the teeth of the fiercest cross-winds. Altogether, a day well spent. Our only regret was that we had timed things so that every pub we passed was closed so we had to content ourselves with bottled water to keep us going."
Chediston Quiz Night
The quiz night was very well attended and what a good evening it was. The fish and chips was very much looked forward to (by me anyway).
Thank you to Judi Fossett for putting the quiz together and being the Quiz Master.
Thank you to Tony and Yvonne for arranging the evening and the fish and chip supper, supplied by Seashells. It was such a fun night.
The winning team received prizes and a profit of £117 was made that will go towards the upkeep of The School Room.
If you missed out this time make sure you get in early for the next one that Tony and Yvonne organise!
(Photos attrib. Clive Roose)
Roving reporter, Chris Roose
New Year's Eve Party - Herne Hill Farm
Chris Roose writes:
Another good evening at Herne Hill saw the old year out and the New 2020 year in.
It was very well organised with Chediston volunteer parking attendants to assist the organised parking.
The barn and tables were beautifully decorated. There was a good turn out of folk and we all enjoyed the lovely selection of food.
We danced the evening away to the Funk Soul Brothers band that kept lots up dancing the entire evening.
The spread of food was brilliant so thank you to all those locals who made the dishes and those who helped and put loads of work into making the evening another success. Of course thanks to Oliver and Joanna for hosting it. It was Clive and my first New Years do since we have lived and I know we will look forward to the next one. (Although I do not want the year to go too quick).
(Photos attrib. Clive Roose)
In the meantime we understand that the raffle raised £420 for the Halesworth Volunteer Centre.
(If you have any photos/comments - us the 'Contact Us' tab - webmaster)
Chediston Christmas Fair 2019
The traditional Christmas Fair took place on December 7th in the Church Schoolroom. There was a particularly good turn-out. The stalls were many and varied ranging from cakes, raffle, bottle stall, wrapped presents, treasure hunt etc. This year the children had their own games room in Vicarage Cottage, next door. Refreshments were served including some excellent mulled wine! A really convivial occasion as usual. The highlight of the afternoon (for the children at least!) was the arrival of Father Christmas who gave presents to each child living in the village under the age of 11, previously registered and who attended the Fair. According to Father Christmas many of the children gave assurances that they had been very well behaved during the year and would continue doing so! (Let's hope that proves to be the case). Father Christmas remarked what a pleasure it was to see the children so excited to see him; he also added how well mannered they all were! Well done to all who organised this event.
Graeme Williams, churchwarden, writes:
‘Many will already have seen photos and report from the Christmas Fair last Saturday.
We can confirm that the income raised on the day was a superb £1083.00, which is considerably higher than last year and indeed higher than for at least the last 5 years.
Such an event doesn’t miraculously happen, a large number of people plan the event, notably Sally Aldous and Jonathan Carman who co-ordinate the thing. People knock on doors seeking donations and of course many people help on the day staffing the stalls, tea and mulled wine counter and this year for the first time entertaining the children. Of course the event wouldn’t be complete without a visit from the man in red.
Sincere thanks go to all those who contributed to the event and of course the visitors on the day who gave so generously on what is the main fundraising event of the year for the church.
Hopefully we can make it even better next year and we hope to see everyone there again.
Once again, many thanks to all involved in the organisation of the Chediston Christmas Fair.
Merry Christmas and a happy and peaceful New Year to all Graeme Williams Churchwarden, Chediston St. Mary’s’
Reopening of Bridge Farm Barn
PRESS RELEASE
New centre makes the living easy November 8, 2019
East Anglia’s newest Independent Living Centre shows off the most modern home adaptations for elderly or disabled people in a centuries-old setting.
Opened today by the Rt Hon Thérèse Coffey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, the Rehability show-home at Chediston, Halesworth, illustrates the wealth of equipment that is now available to make access easier around the home and to facilitate those vital everyday tasks such as using the kitchen, getting in and out of bed, bathing and toileting. And it does so not in the clinical surroundings of a shop or surgery, but in the stunning setting of a historic timber-framed barn, converted to the most modern specifications.
“We want to show the possibilities that enable people to continue living in their own home as they get older or after accident or disability,” says Rehability’s Director, Veronica Downing. An Occupational Therapist with over 40 years of experience in working with disabled people, Veronica is keen to demonstrate that disability or advancing years need not necessitate moving out of the family home.
“Faced with the choice, most people with limited mobility or care needs would much prefer to stay in the home they know,” says Veronica. “With the range of smart equipment now available, home adaptation is often simple, and it’s almost always a far less costly option.”
Severely damaged by fire in 2017, the Grade II listed barn has undergone a full and sympathetic rebuild and is now fitted out with a working kitchen designed for wheelchair access and a cottage-style bedroom with a height-adjustable profiling bed. The adjoining bathroom shows off the latest assisted bathing system with integrated seat transfer and leg-lift facility, along with an accessible shower and washer-dryer toilet. A through-floor home lift takes you up into a first floor living room. Throughout the barn, the mellow timberwork of the original 15th century structure is sympathetically blended with new oak joinery into a must-see setting which combines tradition and modernity.
The newly opened show-home complements Rehability’s retail shop in nearby Halesworth and is a place at which potential customers can see and try out small aids or larger pieces of equipment in the context of a working kitchen, bathroom, bedroom or living area. Professional assessment by a qualified Occupational Therapist will ensure that the equipment a customer considers buying or installing is genuinely suited to their individual needs.
“It is particularly appropriate that we are opening this new centre in Occupational Therapy Week,” says Veronica. “We believe that it is a real asset for north east Suffolk, and that it will show how simple it is, with a bit of thought and ingenuity, to transform the lives of those who are struggling at home.”
Rehability’s new Independent Living Centre is at Bridge Farm, Chediston, two miles west of Halesworth on the B1123. The Rehability retail store is at 7 Bridge Street, Halesworth.
For information on Rehability (East Anglia) Ltd visit www.rehability.co.uk
For information on Occupational Therapy Week 2019 visit https://www.rcot.co.uk/occupational_therapy_week
For further information contact Veronica Downing on 01986 875435 or veronica@veronicadowning.co.uk
or Graham Downing on 01986 873688 or 07775 507737 or info@grahamdowning.com
Music For St. Cedd - October 26 2019
An excellent evening recital held at St. Mary's Church, Chediston. The recital was performed by Veronica Downing (soprano) and Jason Busby (Organ). A good variety of music by Vaughan Williams, Purcell, Vivaldi, Verdi, Handel, Schubert, Franck and Reger, performed magnificently to an appreciative audience.
Following the recital, very pleasant refreshments were served.
There was a retiring collection in aid of St. Mary's Chediston.
Many thanks to the artistes and to those who organised the event.
Chediston Autumn Shindig October 19 2019
It was a shame the evening clashed with a do at Linstead but it did not matter because a good night was had by all.
There were a few songs that were accompanied by the Saw playing of Katie Northover. What a brilliant and spooky sound from a saw, it really complimented the bands playing. Even the guests sitting around joined in with a little table and toe tapping along with some of the tunes.
Many thanks to Chris Roose for her report and photos.
Chediston Harvest Service September 29 2019
A congregation of over 30 villagers celebrated the successful 2019 harvest. The service was led by David Sochon and the address was by Sally Fogden; both in their inimitable, friendly and interesting individual styles. Lusty singing of harvest hymns together with the traditional presentation of garden and field produce made for an enjoyable service. Following the service a highly enjoyable gastronomic delightful lunch was served in the Schoolroom.
Thanks to those who gave up time to decorate the church and participate including those who prepared the lunch.
Chediston Pop-Up Social August
Christine Roose writes: Well the first pop up social night went very well. We all had a good chat and someone bought a nice easy game which some of us played. A good time was had by all Watch this space for the date of the next one. (Webmaster - photos on our Facebook page)
Linstead Fete August 2019
Once again Linstead held their popular traditional village fete and as always this was a great success. A pleasant summer's day and a good turnout of visitors ensured that the fete would be hugely enjoyable. The fete was opened by John Ibbott, Parish Council Vice Chairman. A great variety of traditional games plus stalls selling sumptuous cakes, books, useful items etc kept visitors occupied. A display of classic cars was also popular. The raffles ensured that several people would leave with a real bonus! The tea room proved very popular particularly with excellent refreshments being available to be enjoyed. Plus I have to say Janet Heath's excellent ice cream service was very acceptable! The photos below provide a flavour of the day.
Thanks to all who organised the fete. An excellent village event! It is understood that the fete raised an amazing £1331.
Chediston Cycle Ride
Saturday 13th July saw a group of intrepid cyclists from Chediston take to the streets for a circuitous route to St. Peter's Brewery and then on to the Rumburgh Buck. The weather was perfect for the ride and there was much banter between the participants. The photos show the riders at the start and during the ride and at the end at The Rumburgh Buck with some of those non-riders who joined us there.
Check out this short Video clip prepared & sent to the website by Dave & Jan Fendell: Video Clip Cycle Ride
Chediston Art Group Annual Exhibition - July 11-17 2019
A super exhibition showcasing the expertise of local artists. This is being held at Halesworth's i-chameleon. A variety of styles, mediums and subjects ensures that there is something to excite everyone. The level of skill and observation is evident. Do go along and enjoy. The exhibition opened today 11th July and continues until Wednesday 17th July. Photos taken at the opening preview.
Organiser John Dawkins with one of his compositions.
Defibrillator Training 24 June 2019
The training was arranged to accompany the provision of a defibrillator for Linstead. The machine is located outside Linstead Farm & Garden. Chediston will soon receive its defib machine (to be located in the telephone box). The training was advertised to encourage as many villagers within the parish. One never knows when it may unfortunately be required! The instructress, Joy, explained how to perform CPR, interspersed with forced breathing, and followed as necessary by the defibrillator. Those attending were able to practise their new-found skills on dummies. This was a very useful training session and hopefully will never be needed; if it is, then some of us are prepared.
!
Peace and Conflict Event at Chediston Church 13th April 2019
A most interesting and entertaining evening, with a selection of poetry, readings, singing and music all washed down with suitable liquid refreshments. Big thanks to our talented organist Will Drew - Batty for putting the programme together and everyone who supported the event in whatever capacity.
(Many thanks to Ann Williams for the Report a
Remembrance Service - Chediston November 11 2018
The rain cleared and the sun shone for the remembrance service at the Chediston cenotaph and church. Wreaths were laid at the cenotaph and a list of those fallen in the two world wars was read out. The following service inside the church was made particularly moving with accounts of service personnel letters and diaries. Rousing hymns and an address by Vic Hopkins added to the occasion.
The following photos provide a flavour of the event:
(Photos attributed to Clive Roose)
A recent Facebook post from a Pat Blanchet regarding the above: I went to Chediston Church for the first time yesterday. My Great Uncle Arthur Warne was born in the village, as was my Grandfather and ten other siblings. Arthur is mentioned on the Memorial in the churchyard. He is also listed at the Theipval Memorial in France where he died in 1916. He was in the 9th Battalion of the Suffolk Regiment.It was a very moving service and the residents were very friendly and welcoming. It is also a very beautiful old historic village. I also popped over to Wissett, about a mile away, where my Father was born and met some lovely people in the church there.Added to this the sun was out and the Suffolk countryside was beautiful. A fitting day to honour all casualties of war..
Chediston Harvest Festival - October 14th 2018
Graeme Williams reports to the website:
‘ Yesterday saw the annual Chediston St. Mary’s Harvest Thanksgiving service. We had a lovely service delivered with humour by our Rector, Edward Rennard. The theme of his talk was that when you are stuck behind one of the many huge farm vehicles around harvest-time, try to think of what such vehicles represent in terms of our food production and be grateful, rather than being tempted into ‘road rage’ incidents!! Approaching 50 people were in the congregation and it was a delight to see so many children present. The church flowers and produce looked stunning, with a large number of villagers pulling out all the stops to make all vacant surfaces look superb. We had readings by John Parson and David Mantell and the organist was Will Drew-Batty, who played all the harvest favourites. After the service virtually everybody meandered down to the Old Church School Room for the traditional Harvest lunch co-ordinated and prepared by Sally Aldous and Joyce Gregory. As usual, the food and drink was wonderful and the buzz in the room clearly indicated an extremely convivial hour or two. Even the weather co-operated by staying dry, which enabled the youngsters to have a whale of a time chasing round the adjacent field, which looked great fun.
The collection at the service was in aid of the Indonesian earthquake and tsunami victims and raised £238.00 for the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC).
In addition, a huge range of produce is now on sale in the church, with proceeds going as usual to Christian Aid, so help yourself and please give generously. A box of tinned and dry goods will also be donated to the Halesworth food bank. Donations may be added to this box up until and including Sunday 21st Oct.
All in all we had a super day, and our deepest thanks go to all those villagers who contributed to it’s success. Special thanks of course go to Sally Aldous who persuaded and cajoled so many to help with the decoration of church, and also Joyce Gregory for looking after the provender – keep the runner bean chutney coming Joyce!!
It’s also worth reminding people that there is a Book Exchange in operation in the church in the rear pew to the left of the main door. There is no charge, just have a look and see what takes your fancy when you drop off your completed book. ‘
Suffolk Historic Churches Ride and Stride - 8th September 2018
I managed 30 miles and visited 21 churches. Having completed this ride for nigh on 18 years, I reckon the hills are getting steeper each year! To date I have been sponsored to the value of £195. Thank you to those who have been so generous.
It is not too late to add to that sponsorship which will go towards the upkeep of Chediston Church. Contact on here on by phone 785440.
Photo shows me outside Chediston church.
David Mantell
Wedding of James Hall
James Hall from Chediston married Jodie Runacres from Ilketshall St Margaret on Saturday 30th June at the bride's village church. The reception was held at Red House Farm, Chediston in a marquee at a beautiful setting. The weather could not have been more perfect. 95 guests enjoyed fizz and canapés on the meadow and in the garden followed by a BBQ and desserts. Evening guests joined for what was a great party with a hog roast for a celebration of James and Jodie’s marriage.
Congratulations. We wish you a very happy life together (Webmaster)
Chediston Open Gardens - 30th June
Blyth Lodge
Whitwick
The Shambles
Mount Pleasant Farm
Bridge Farm
Thanks to Pat Mattinson for the above photos. (Pat says: 'Apologies from me to the owners of the gardens I didn’t manage to photograph? Although I am stronger than I was last year, my energy levels aren’t what they were, and the heat was an added factor.) Hopefully we shall receive some more photos and brief reports ere long. If you have any photos and can write something, contact the webmaster!
In the meantime the following email was received by the website:
Thankyou to all the people who opened their gardens, everyone was very welcoming and helpful. All the gardens were really well presented and everybody should be proud of their hard work - we both have garden envy! Randal and Lynn.
Many thanks
Randal (Barnard)
Graeme Williams writes:
'Chediston PCC would like to formally thank the wide range of people who helped to make last Saturday’s Open Gardens event such a success.Special thanks go to:
- The 10 gardeners and partners who put such a huge amount of time into making their gardens look so fantastic, under tricky weather conditions
- All those who generously supported the event on the day
- Joyce Gregory and her assistants for co-ordinating a wonderful array of cakes and refreshments in the marquee
- Those who weren’t able to attend, but still supported the event financially
The proceeds from the event will be split 50:50 between St. Mary’s Church and East Anglia Children’s Hospices. To date, the money raised is approaching £300, but it isn’t too late to make a contribution. Please contact Graeme Williams on 01986 875342 if you wish to make a donation.’
Chediston Music Night - 5th May 2018
Saturday May 5th saw an enthusiastic full house in the school room for an evening of music hosted by local musicians the Backwoods Band, who played a couple of wonderful sets of country tinged original and traditional songs, including the classic "Sitting with the Chickens," which may possibly be the new single!
Talented support came from Harry Parks who played some sublime Debussy on the piano, while Harry's dad Will Parks and daughter Nelly entertained with folk songs on the guitar and whistle, aided by Will Oldham on mandolin. David Reynard followed with some bluegrass and Irish tunes - also on the mandolin.
Thanks to Jane Dickins for providing an excellent ploughman's supper!
The event raised £150 for the Halesworth Community Nursing Care Fund as well as funding the new LED fairy lights for the school room and the village marquee.
If any one has any photos of the event please send them in.
Will Oldham
Following the Chediston Music Night:
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Barbara Kell
Date: Sun, 13 May 2018 19:32:20 +0100
Subject: HCNCF thanks
To: willoldham1@gmail.com
Dear Will
We have just received cash amounting to £150.00 which was a donation
from yourself following a gig at Chediston Village Hall.
On behalf of the Trustees, I would like to thank you for thinking of
us and supporting the Halesworth Community Nursing Care Fund.
I can report that we have recently received planning permission , so
we hope to start building The Pear Tree Centre in the Autumn. This is
an exciting project which will be a ‘drop in’ centre for people who
have been diagnosed with a life changing illness who will be able to
access help and support for themselves and their families. it will be
open to anyone living within a 15 mle radius of Halesworth.
In the background of this project , our charity continues to support
terminally ill patients registered with Cutlers Hill Surgery and who
wish to die at home, by funding extra nursing care and equipment.
With our grateful thanks once again.
Barbara Kell
Trustee/Secretary
HCNCF
'Inspire Suffolk' Charity Tea - 14 April 2018
I wish to thank everyone who supported the afternoon tea in aid of 'Inspire Suffolk' (Stephen Burroughes' SCC Charity) by making cakes, scones and sausage rolls and/or also coming to socialise with other villagers during the afternoon, although attendance was disappointingly low. A sum of approximately £100 was raised for this very worthwhile charity.
Janet Mantell
Chediston Bowls Club Outing
Pat Twyman writes to the website:
Hi every one , just to let you know what a wonderful outing we had on Wednesday with the Chediston Indoors bowls group. Lovely meal in the restaurant of the
Theatre Royal in Norwich,& a Marvellous show afterwards (Top Hat) . What a wonderful cast , we all came out afterwards wishing we where just going in again.
Thanks Joan-Linda & Graeme for organizing this lovely outing.
Chediston Carol Service 2017
St. Mary's Church, Chediston was full for the traditional Carol Service. Mulled wine and mince pies to commence and a lovely service conducted by Veronica Downing with Edward playing the organ. The website received the following message from the churchwardens:
The traditional Christmas Eve Carol Service at Chediston was a wonderful start to Christmas Festivities. There were at least 100 present and it was lovely to see so many children.
The church looked so pretty with the new pottery vases in the windows by Mark Titchener, trailing ivy decorating the pew candle sticks, a Christmas tree kindly donated, bells ringing out across the fields and mulled wine to warm the voices.
We are also very grateful to Edward, our Rector, who kindly stepped in as organist and did an excellent job.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the Food Bank Christmas Tree presents and to the collection in aid of The Children's Society.
We wish everyone a very happy New Year and look forward to seeing you at our services in 2018.
Veronica and Graeme, Churchwardens
(Update from the churchwardens - the collection raised £285, in aid of The Children's Society)
Macmillan Biggest Ever Coffee Morning - 2017
This event was held at the Linstead Village Hall on 29th September.
Linstead's Vicky Wilkinson organised the event. Refreshments including some very scrumptious and moreish cakes were available and, as per the photo, much appreciated! Cards were displayed for purchase and also gifts for which donations were requested. This was a very convivial event and for a truly very worthwhile cause. Grateful thanks to Vicky for her hard work to make all of this possible.
Letter of Thanks from EACH following Fund Raiser Tea at Rosecroft Farm
Afternoon Tea at Rosecroft Farm in aid of the East Anglia Childrens Hospice
A lovely day provided the perfect backdrop for this event. Plenty of sandwiches, savouries and delicious cakes washed down with cups of tea or coffee. A very pleasant social occasion enabled villagers to get together and chat. However the purpose of the afternoon was to raise funds for EACH, Chediston's preferred charity. A speaker from EACH gave her time to explain the great work that the charity does in providing care for extremely vulnerable children; inspiring and thought provoking words from this dedicated carer. Many, many thanks to those who helped with the marquee and transport not to mention the food providers. Over thirty attended and several gave apologies but provided a donation ; the final charity total is not known at present but indications are in the order of £350. Thanks to all who attended and donated. We will not be delivering the money to EACH for a week or so, thus if anyone wishes to provide a donation, please contact Janet Mantell (785440 or mantellj@gmail.com).
Chediston May Day Dog Show
Our esteemed organisers and judges | |
Best In Show. Bill King and Lottie | |
2nd Best In Show. Jessica Summers and Storm | |
3rd Best In Show. Peter Howes and Gus | |
Veteran Dogs (9 years+) Class. Winner Anne Aldred and Woody | |
2nd Veteran Class. Sarah Downing with Trevor | |
Winner - Dog Scurry. Jessica Summers and Storm | |
Winner. Most Like Owner. Guy and Binka | |
Winner. Young Handler. Peter Howes and Gus | |
Winner. Best Behaved Class. Jackie & Bonnie | |
2nd. Best Behaved Class. Anne Aldred and Woody | |
3rd Best Behaved Class. Cristal and Storm |
And some general pictures of the event:
Thanks to Pat Mattinson for 3 of these photos and Julia Manton for 2. Corrections - notify webmaster please. If you have photos, comments etc - email them using the 'Contact Us' tab |
Ann Williams writes: Many thanks to everyone involved in Chediston Dog Show, the first of what we hope will become an annual event. To all who supported by supplying cakes and plants, to those who took part with (and without) dogs, and to those who donated money or their time to make this event a success. Special thanks go to the Herne Hill gang, Veronicaand Graham Downing, Holly and family from Peddars Paws, John Ibbott (judge) and to stall holders, Joyce and Georgie (cakes), Pat and Bobby (plants), Sarah on refreshments and Dave on bric-a-brac. The sum raised makes a significant contribution to the running costs of our lovely church. The weather, cool and blustery (dry at least) was beyond our control! Any constructive comments for future shows can be directed to Agwilliams@blueyonder.co.uk and will be appreciated so long as criticisms aren t too brutal.ites:
Veronica Downing writes: I would like to add my thanks to everyone who contributed to making the Dog Show such a fun community event. Also to our daughter Sarah Downing (the Bridge Farm one!) for looking after the refreshments all afternoon. Hot tea and coffee was definitely needed to keep the hands warm. So many people contributed to the success of the afternoon and it was lovely to have so many young trainers with their dogs. We look forward to holding another Chediston Dog Show next year as a community event and fund raiser for St Mary's Church.
Chediston Craft Christmas Lunch 2016
Ann Williams writes: Our Christmas meal at The Queen's Head,Bramfield. A lovely meal and convivial company but no heating so we kept coats and scarves on!
Jambalaya or a Butternut Squash option - real folksy food!
Chediston Harvest Festival
Chediston St. Mary's Harvest Festival took place on Sunday 2nd October at 11.30am.
A congregation of around 50 villagers and visitors gathered to celebrate the safe gathering in of the harvest, with the service of thanksgiving being led by Rev. Jan Bunday. Favourite Harvest hymns including ‘We Plough the Fields and Scatter' were sung. The Harvest Offering of fruits of the harvest was then taken up to the altar by young and not so young members of the congregation.
A collection on behalf of the excellent Water Aid charity was taken, which raised in excess of £200.00.
The church was looking truly resplendent as a result of the superb flower arrangements throughout - a real testament to the flower-arranging skills in the village.
After the service there was the traditional Harvest Lunch in the Old School Room, which most of the congregation attended. This proved to be the usual excellent opportunity for villagers to get together and have a good old ‘chin-wag'. The superb spread provided under the auspices of Joyce Gregory and Sally Aldous (with plenty of additional assistance from a number of others), was tucked into with great relish by those present.
Graeme Williams
2.10.16
Amy Fossett
Chediston's David & Judi Fossett's daughter married Iain Hopper at Linstead Church this afternoon (23rd July). A lovely service conducted by Jan Bunday was followed by a wedding breakfast and entertainment at Mount Pleasant Farm. We wish Amy and Iain every happiness for their future life together.
Linstead Barbecue - 18th June
This exciting event was held to mark the Queen's 90th birthday.
Marriage of Stephen & Julie Hall's daughter. Caroline Louise Hall to Sam Dominic Burgess - Saturday 18th June
Here are a few photo of the day. Julie says: Stephen and I just wanted to share these photos of our daughter's wedding on Saturday! We had the most amazing day and the weather stayed dry to get Caroline to the church!
Congratulations. We wish them well in their married life. |
Chediston Downhill Soapbox Derby 2015
A sunny afternoon heralded some exciting downhill racing at this popular event in the Chediston calendar, and now in its 6th year. Drivers and spectators arrived full of anticipation. Marshals, refreshment tent, commentator and timekeeper plus two tractor drivers for recovering soapboxes all at the ready. Everyone who attended had a great time with carts that people had spent hours building and looked really great. It is understood that there were 25 carts taking part. Thanks to Herne Hill Farm for holding this event and for everyone who helped in any way. Here are some photos to give a flavour of the event:
Read the Rules! | |
Initial Registration | |
Health & Safety & Rules Meeting | |
And now for the winners etc. | |
The prize for Presentation went to Penelope Pitstop | |
And the winners were: 1st Tom Wells in Lami Bighorn 28.31 seconds 2nd Jason Townsend 29.06 seconds 3rd Tom Milne 29.3 seconds 4th Lewis Chapman 29.8 seconds Fastest Younger Driver - Harry Hicks 31.07 seconds |
The bucket collection raised £93 plus a contribution from Townsend Electrical of £100; this will go to the Halesworth Community Nurses.
The teas and cakes etc raised £200 and will go into the parish council charity fund for distribution at a later date.
(Thanks to Pat Mattinson who contributed some of the photos - Webmaster)
Parish Website Photo Competition
The competition exhibition ran over the weekend of 11-12th October. You can of course view all of the 89 photos submitted to the competition by goiog to the Gallery/Photo Competition tab on this website. The competition was judged by the well-known photographer Stephen Wolfenden. He selected the best 40 photos and these were displayed in the Schoolroom.
A steady trickle of visitors came to the exhibition and were amazed at the quality of the photos.
At 6pm on Sunday 12th villagers came to the Chediston Schoolroom for a get-together and awards of prizes. Refreshments were on tap. Our judge gave a synopsis of his judging process and said:
I have to say that the standard and variety of these photos is really, really good and I was very pleased to have been involved with them, so thank you for asking me.
I must explain how I came to pick the winners as I guess you'll be wondering how I arrived at the ‘chosen ones'!
I thought it would be fairly straight forward to pick the three winners from the 80+ submissions …. but not so! It became simpler when I was asked, a little later on, to choose just 40 from the 80, in order to form this exhibition.
I assessed the photos that were near duplicates and chose the most pleasing, taking into consideration the technical quality and composition of the images …. the winners still had to be picked, though.
The problem was how to evaluate a photo of a fox, say, against a church or landscape, in fact we could easily have ended up with three wildlife photos or three landscapes, but as I say, you can't realistically measure one subject against the other, (ultimately, though, that would have to be done!), anyway that wouldn't have been representative of the submission, or indeed village life, so I divided the remaining 40 into the categories that seemed to suggest themselves: Wildlife , Landscapes, Buildings and People.
I refined further and chose 3 photos from each category and sorted them into first, second and third so I ended up with a winner in each of the 4 categories which then had to be judged against each other, in spite of what I said earlier!
and then as each winner was announced he explained precisely why he had selected those particular photos.
The winners were:
First - Graham Downing (Sunrise on Herne Hill) £50
Our judge remarked:
This sunrise is simply stunning, technically it's excellent, the composition is really good and is almost 3 dimensional in the way the eye is prompted to travel from the dark foreground through the lighter middle distance to the bright sun in the distance.
There was another shot of this image, which must have been taken within a few seconds, but the difference is striking.
The sun in the rejected one is in full view and almost centrally placed making the composition quite static, whereas our winner has the sun just half hidden behind the trees, and a little more off-centre, suggesting movement and adding a bit of mystery to the whole scene. The difference between these two shots can be summed up by that master photographer - Henri Cartier-Bresson, in his immortal phrase “ the decisive moment” - that defining moment when it seems that the action or event being observed is at it's peak. That tenet can be applied to any branch of photography, in fact all of our winners display the trait … except perhaps the ‘church and stars' photo - it's decisive moment lasts for quite a long time!
So why did this sunrise win? Well, apart from what I've said already, it's an image that one could have on the wall, enjoy living with and be happy to see it quite regularly, simply - it has real staying power.
Second - Denise Burrows (A Step Back in Time) £30
Our judge remarked:
The three ladies and the gent is a classic reportage or ‘grab' shot, as we say in the trade! The composition is excellent and this image could easily stand up with any of the great pictures in this genre. This type of shot lends itself to a lot of speculation as to : who, what, where, when and why? But these questions will only be asked if the image is strong enough and interesting enough - this one most certainly is.
Joint Third - Bill King (Great Spotted Woodpeckers) and Terry Tooze (Church and North Star) £10 each)
Our judge remarked:
The woodpeckers photo is superb and expertly captured, the symmetry is quite amazing and very pleasing. I have great admiration for all the wildlife pictures in this exhibition, but this one just had the edge
The church and stars photograph is fascinating and beautifully executed - I really enjoyed looking at it, having never before seen a photo with the stars revolving around the Pole Star. A thought provoking picture if ever there was one!
Each received a copy of Stephen Wolfenden's book. Well done to each!
The overall winner, Graham Downing with judge Stephen Wolfenden and Webmaster, David Mantell | |
Second Place Denise Burrows | Preferred no photo |
Joint Third - Bill King | |
Joint Third - Terry Tooze |
Special thanks to Stephen Wolfenden our judge, those who gave up their time to sit on the Schoolroom during the exhibition, Bungay Camera Club for the loan of the display stands, Margaret Churchill for mounting the photos (and for some of the photos on this report), Jo Wareham and the Parish Council for their support, Graham Downing for presenting the prizes.
Those who visited the exhibition will know that a sample calendar was available. If we get sufficient interest we shall produce a 2015 calendar with a tear off postcard at the bottom with 12 photos from those submitted. If you have not put your name down already, please contact the website and we will order extra copies. Get in touch NOW!
Webmaster
Jazz at The Angel, Halesworth
Sunday 28th September, Chediston's Tony Parsons again assembled a quartet to play at The Angel. The quartet included the great American clarinettist Ron Hackett, plus Ray Simmons on keyboards and Tony Jennings on bass. Regular followers of the band were there but also it was not long before passers-by were lured into The Angel by the sound of some sweet jazz. A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon!
Well done Tony. Keep up the good work! | The next Jazzin' Around at The Angel is on Sunday 26th October 2014 |
Chediston D-Day Memorial Event - 21st June 2014
A great day, with varied and interesting displays and activities. The weather was wonderful. Doug Cady planted a memorial tree in honour of the country's fallen heroes.
Anyone care to add a comment? | Thanks to all those who so willingly gave up their time to make the event such a success. Thanks to the Warehams and Geoff and his team for the infrastructure. Particular thanks to Paul Starks for his forethought and exceptional efforts. |
And then we had the evening entertainment. The demand for tickets was such that unfortunately many were too late to purchase these despite tickets being sold initially to Chedsiton residents before being available generally. The moral of the story is to check the Noticeboards and read the website!
The music was provided by the Pavilion Big Band playing Glen Miller style music with plenty of dancing and expert demonstrations. An excellent supper was prepared and served by Elaine Starks, Linda Tooze and their team - all to their usual high standard (thanks to Rainbow for providing all of the ham and cheese. A raffle was held and again thanks to sponsors for the prizes. All in all a great evening. Below are some photo memories:
If you have any photos of the event that you think may be suitable, email them to the webmaster using the 'Contact Us' tab. And again, thanks to all those who put in the effort to make the day a great success. |
Chediston Jubilee Celebrations
Chediston's Jubilee celebrations got off to a good start with the decorating of the Church and the Jubilee Church Service. The flowers in the Church were beautifully arranged and colour co-ordinated to the Jubilee.
The Church service was conducted by Jan Bunday and there were excellent readings and patriotic hymns. A real uplifting experience, and that was before the sherry after the service!
Well done to all the clever flower arrangers |
The Jubilee Duke Pub (named after the long-since closed 'The Duke' on Chediston Green) is sited in the marquee on the Village Field. Stephen Burroughes was the signwriter responsible for the wonderful sign.
Steady hand there Stephen!
Sunday evening started with the opening of the Jubilee Pub and continued with a quiz. Many thanks to Judi Fossett for organising the quiz and Elaine Starks for acting as scorer. After the quiz we had folk music played by 'The Late Risers' band. The following photos show the quiz, the winning quiz team and the band.
Monday's events commenced with a Quarter Peal of the Chediston Bells.
A quarter peal of 1260 Grandsire Doubles was rung for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee by local ringers from Chediston, Halesworth and Cratfield. The youngest member of the band, Alex Rolph has just done her GCSE's. Alex only learned to ring 2 years ago as one of the challenges for her Duke of Edinburgh Award, but she has made exceptional progress.
We were delighted with the support we received from local people who loved hearing the bells ring out in celebration and who came and thanked us afterwards.
Mick and Ann Jones came to see us ring at the 11 o'clock start and were still there in the church when we finished 41 minutes later!
We always need enthusiastic youngsters as well as older people, who may possibly have a little more spare time, to learn to ring!
Veronica
Chediston, Suffolk
St Mary
Monday 4 June 2012 in 41 min (11 cwt)
1260 Grandsire Doubles
1 Graham Downing
2 Naomi Shaw
3 Alex Rolph
4 Veronica Downing
5 Philip Gorrod (C)
6 Tim Shaw
First Grandsire: 3
For the Diamond Jubilee of HM the Queen
Well done ringers!
Soon after the quarter peal finished the BBQ Lunch kicked off. The marquee was beautifully dressed for the occasion with union jacks and balloons. The food provided was excellent and well cooked - thanks to all the barbecuers and servers for their dedication. And after the bbq, tables were laden with scrumptious desserts and ice-creams.
Joan Williamson made all of the pennant bunting and Emma Stanton (pictured) made all of the paperchains. | |
We are worn out mum! | |
Wow! What are a fantastic raffle table. Thanks to all who kindly donated prizes. |
After the Lunch, it was time for sports to help the food down! | |
Phew! Quite worn out now! I couldn't wang another wellie! |
A Jubilee medallion made by Gib Burroughes and donated to the event was presented to every child present under 16 years of age. Following the medallion presentation a children's fancy dress competition was judged by Joyce Gregory and Joan Williamson. The result was close run but the winner was judged to be Harriet Carman who received a 'gold' medal; all children taking part were given ice-creams.
Tables were cleared and decorations refreshed, in preparation for the Party Night. Guests took their seats in readiness. | |
Up struck the band, 'The Chediston Chasers', specially assembled for this Jubilee occasion. The band was led by our own Tony Parsons. | |
And the dancers swayed to the rhythms of jazz standards. | |
During the first interval, the opportunity was taken to announce the results of the Parish Website Treasure Hunt. The runner-up was Yvonne Watts and the winner was Linda Humphries. Linda was presented with a prize. | |
And all the time, the food kept coming and being topped up! We are all 'caked out'! Thanks to all the great cooks in the village. | |
Your webmaster managed to get his name on Joan Williamson's card for a dance! A brave woman! But as you will see from the next photo, young Joan decided to up the tempo with some pole dancing! | |
A new career beckons methinks! | |
After the Party Night a beacon was lit at Bridge Farm | |
Jubilee Cake |
Thanks to all villagers who gave of their time so willingly to enable this event to be the success it clearly was. Clearing up on Tuesday was accomplished by a host of personnel - thanks to you also.
Visit to the East Anglia Childrens Hospice (EACH) at Quidenham - Chediston's Charity
On April 17th the Quidenham Children's Hospice held an open day for visitors to be shown round. Several Chedistonians took advantage of this opportunity to see the valuable work undertaken by the hospice. This is where children are looked after to give their carers some respite or just to take the pressure off so that other children in the family can have some more attention. Care is also provided by the staff in the home, schools or community as appropriate. As much care is given to the siblings and parents as to the sick child and carries on for some time after the bereavement.
The tour started in the ‘soft play' room where children can play in complete safety whatever their problems or handicaps may be with soft cushioning and an area of brightly coloured balls for bouncing around in.
The tour started in the craft and activities room where huge efforts are made to enable all children to produce artwork and enjoy making things. We also visited the music room and the sensory room where there is a waterbed (with warm water in it!) and lots of lights, which can be altered by the children moving about.
Visits were also made to some bedrooms, for children, teenagers or family members with a look into the en-suite bathrooms too with all the specialised equipment needed to look after the sick children.
There is also a room which can be cooled right down so that when a child dies they can be kept there until the family members have said their final farewell before the undertaker removed the body. This room is far from gloomy; like all the rest of the hospice it is beautifully decorated. Nowhere did visitors feel that this is a sad place and the wonderful staff all agreed that it is a very positive place to work as they are helping to make happy memories for the bereaved families after their loved ones have gone.
Good news is that fund raising has enabled the hospice to be open for 7 days a week, thus affording much needed respite to the 150+ youngsters on its list.
EACH is a really worthwhile charity and as Chediston's nominated charity it is hoped to continue holding events to raise additional funds. If you would like to asisst in such fundraising or require any additional information about EACH, plesae contact Janet Mantell 01986-785440.
Craft Activity Room | Soft Play Room |
Sensory Room | Music Room |
En-suite Bathroom | Bedroom |
Bath | Cot Room |
Special padded cot/bed | Raised side bed |
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