Throughout the winter, the Blyth Valley and Southwold wildlife group organise monthly meetings where they invite guest speakers to present on various topics of interest. Here, Penny Mansfield reports on their latest meeting.

East Anglia’s Changing Coastline

At the January meeting of the Blyth Valley and Southwold Suffolk Wildlife Trust group, Adam Burrows, from Natural England, gave a fascinating illustrated talk on the constantly changing coastline of East Anglia.  We were able to follow the historic changes from Neolithic times through to Roman and Medieval periods, when terrible storms brought about the loss of many sea ports, Dunwich being our local example. However, the immense wetland fens and marshes of that period teemed with abundant wildlife. Bitterns were in such abundance that, at one lordly banquet, two hundred were served roasted.

Since the terrible floods of 1953, coastal protection became paramount and sea walls were created along coasts and rivers to protect people and property. The need for sea defence has in recent years increased, but the approach to how it is to be achieved is altering. The local audience are well aware of the crumbling, soft cliffs in our area, and the predictions for the loss of land over the next 50 years is sobering. Towns continue to maintain hard sea defences, but elsewhere a managed retreat is considered the best option, and different solutions are needed. Some beaches, as at Dunwich, are allowed to become more extensive and resilient, with localised dykes and outflows where necessary: elsewhere, sea defences further inland will be built, allowing more extensive and bio-diverse wetlands to develop and form a wider protection. And there are positive outcomes where wetlands are re-established: Marsh Harriers, Avocets, Spoonbills and Bitterns are breeding successfully again, and Cranes are once more in our skies.

The subject was of considerable local interest, and we all left with a deeper understanding of the complexities of coastal change and its management.

Our next meeting is on Thursday 9 February, 7.30pm in the Southwold Arts Centre, IP18 6JP. Paul Davies from the RSPB, will be talking about the Beach Nesting Birds of East Anglia. Admission £4, refreshments included. Under 25’s free. All are welcome.

Contact us at swtblythvalley@gmail.com 

FoSL February: Why Not Become Our Friend?

Speak to existing Friends to find out how being a Friend of Southwold Library is free, fun and supports your library

Wednesday 1 February

Thursday 9th February

Friday 17 February

Tuesday 21 February

10.00am – 12.00noon

Friends of Southwold Library Registered Charity No. 1163525

Legal Matters Advice & Information Online: “I didn’t know it was possible to vary the Will after a death in the family” – the pros & cons

Tuesday 7^th February 8.00pm

Local Solicitor Stuart Johnson, fully accredited with Solicitors for the Elderly, will advise on the possibilities in varying wills and the advantages and disadvantages.

Register your email address with Southwold Library and receive an invite to this free online event

southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk or 01502 722519.

Beginners iPad & iPhone

5 Week Course starting Monday 13 February 9.30am-12.00noon

A course to help you get started with your iPad or iPhone.

£60 per person – book at Southwold Library, 01502 722519 www.ticketsource.co.uk/suffolklibraries 

Free Seaside Crafts for Kids

Sunday 12 February 11.00am-12.00noon

Make a variety of seaside themed crafts including suncatchers and fridge magnets.

Crafts supplied by the Friends of Southwold Library

Pop-up Planetarium: Lab in a Library Brought to you by Kinetic

Wednesday 15 February 1.30pm, 2.45pm & 4pm @ Stella Peskett Millennium Hall

See the universe – in Southwold!  The whole experience lasts 40 minutes and you will enter the dome, lie down and watch the planets in 3D colour and feel like you are floating through the universe!

£5 per person.  Open to children 5+ and Adults.  Children must be accompanied by an adult into the dome.

Limited spaces.  Book your place today!

Not suitable for those with sea sickness or those under four –  no toddlers allowed in the dome.

01502 722519 southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk

www.ticketsource.co.uk/suffolklibraries

Free Chess for Children Drop In

Thursday 16 February 10.00am – 12.00pm

For children 7+ from beginners to those of any level of experience.

We are looking to start a regular Chess Club for children so even if you can’t make this date register your interest with Southwold Library.

01502 722519 southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk

Come Together Tuesdays @ Southwold Library

Every Tuesday 2-4pm

Free Social Afternoon for Adults

Complete the ongoing jigsaw, play a card or board game or bring along your knitting or other crafts.

Free hot drinks

Crochet Club

Wednesday 22 February 2.15-4pm

Last Wednesday of every month

£2 each.

A friendly group for all abilities of crocheter.  Barbara will be on hand to teach beginners, add to your crochet skills or troubleshoot problems.  Or just bring along your latest project and crochet together.

Bring your own equipment  or Barbara can supply at a price.

Refreshment break in The Canteen

Blyth Poets “The isle is full of voices”

A poetry group meeting at Southwold Library

Friday 3 February 2.15-3.30pm

First Friday of every month

All welcome to read or just listen.

We invite contributions of original work or well-loved poems.

Refreshment break in The Canteen

Scrabble Club

Thursday 16 February:  Third Thursday of Every Month 2.15pm

All Equipment Supplied

Refreshment break in The Canteen

Trading Standards & Fire Safety Information

Second Tuesday of every month 10.30am – 12.00noon

Southwold Library

Lego Club!

Sundays 12.15-1.00pm

Open to kids (and adults) of all ages

This Winter we’re building: Humungous Houses

All donations of Lego welcome

Free event, no booking required.

Adults: Would you like to help with Lego Club?  Just ask staff

Kids, Come & Read to Ash the PAT Dog

Wednesdays 4pm @ Southwold Library

The Read2Dogs scheme provided by PAT helps to improve literacy skills and wellbeing in young people by developing their confidence, interest, and enjoyment in reading.

Dogs are non-judgemental and great listeners – they don’t interrupt or correct – so they aid confidence and concentration levels.  PAT Dogs are also known to encourage positive social behaviours, enhance self-esteem and inspire young people to relax and have fun.

Come and read to Ash for up to 15 minutes at a time plus enjoy a range of dog themed games, jigsaws, and crafts while you wait.

Free event, no booking required.

Southwold Library, Old Hospital Hub, Field Stile Road, Southwold IP18 6LD 01502 722519 southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk

Southwold Library Reading Group

This month we are reading:

“The Sealwoman’s Gift” by Sally Magnusson

Thursday 23 February 6.30pm @ Southwold Library

Pick up a book at Southwold Library

Free event, no booking required.

01502 722519 southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk

Baby Bounce & Tot Rock Southwold Library

Every Sunday & Tuesday 10.30-11.00am. 

Instruments, clapping, jogging & action rhymes.

For babies & toddlers of all ages.

Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore launched his annual survey last week to gauge public views on his draft proposal for the policing element for the council tax precept for the next financial year.

Late last year the Policing Minister gave PCCs the ability to raise the policing element of the precept by up to £15 per annum for a Band D property for 2023/24 and Suffolk’s PCC is proposing to use this maximum increase and is asking Suffolk taxpayers their thoughts.

The survey is now live on the PCC’s website www.suffolk-pcc.gov.uk and closes at 9am on Thursday 26th January 2023.

Tim Passmore said, “As your Police and Crime Commissioner, setting the budget is one of my most important responsibilities. I must ensure that the Constabulary has the resources needed to provide an efficient and effective service, whilst ensuring that I use Suffolk taxpayers’ money for the maximum benefit.

“Sadly, as has been the case for several years now, our funding from Government is just not enough and I need to increase the precept to maintain the level of police service in the county. Suffolk is one of the lowest-funded forces in the country and faces significant challenges. The full £15 increase (for a band D property) will increase the policing budget by £3.9m and give the Constabulary the resources it needs to keep pace with demand.

“The Chief Constable has advised me that the additional funding, generated by the proposed increase, is essential to maintain an efficient and effective service, and provide the resources needed to manage demand as effectively as possible.

“Without the proposed increase, there is a significant risk of a reduction in service. Without the additional Council Tax funding the Constabulary will simply not keep up with the increased demands placed upon it. I feel I have little choice but to propose the full increase. All other options have been exhausted.

“I have worked closely with the Chief Constable to agree how the potential funding will be allocated. It is an extremely difficult balance but one that I believe meets the needs of the council taxpayer. I hope people will take the opportunity to consider my proposal and let me know their thoughts via the survey. As PCC I represent the people of Suffolk so it is important I hear their views.”

Chief Constable, Rachel Kearton said, “At a time when demands on policing are growing exponentially it is essential that the Constabulary is properly resourced and equipped to deliver a high-quality service and ensure Suffolk continues to be a safe place in which to live, work, travel and invest.

“Whilst I was really pleased to receive one of the best HMICFRS reports in the country I accept their recommendation that improvements are required regarding our services to victims including the way the public can contact the force. This proposal will go a long way in enabling us to address this by providing extra resources and using best use of technology.”

The PCC will present his final proposal to the Police and Crime Panel on Friday 27th January 2023 for approval. The papers for this meeting will be published five clear working days before on Suffolk County Council’s website, www.suffolk.gov.uk.

Anyone not able to take part in the electronic survey can write to the PCC at The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Suffolk Police HQ, Portal Avenue, Martlesham Heath IP5 3QS. Please answer the question: Do you agree with my proposal to increase the policing element of the council tax for 2023/24 by 29p a week (based on a Band D property)? with a clear YES or NO and include any comment you wish to make. The written response needs to be in the office by 5pm on Wednesday 25th January 2023.

To find out what this means to households across all of the council tax bands please click here.

For a direct link to the survey go to: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/PCCpreceptsurvey

Communities Together East Anglia is hosting “Chinwag and Community Cuppa” sessions at Reydon Village Hall on the 2^nd Friday of every month between 2-4pm.

The sessions are aimed at people aged 65+ and are an opportunity to come along to a social group for refreshments (all provided) and a chat. The events are also an opportunity to talk to The Later Life Community Team (part of Communities Together East Anglia) about how they can support you and the community. There is entertainment at the Chinwag events.

Find out more at www.communitiestogethereastanglia.org  

Come Together Tuesdays @ Southwold Library

Every Tuesday starting 3rd January 2-4pm

Free Social Afternoon for Adults

Complete the ongoing jigsaw, play a card or board game or bring along your knitting or other crafts.

Free hot drinks

Face to Face Legal Matters Advice & Information: Wills – are they just an expensive nuisance?

Monday 9th January 10.30am @Southwold Library

Local Solicitor Stuart Johnson, fully accredited with Solicitors for the Elderly, will advise on why you need a will, what can go in it and how to go about writing one.

Free talk, no need to book

01502 722519 southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk

Crochet Club

Wednesday 25^th January 2-4pm

Last Wednesday of every month

£2 each.

A friendly group for all abilities of crocheter.  Barbara will be on hand to teach beginners, add to your crochet skills or troubleshoot problems.  Or just bring along your latest project and crochet together.

Bring your own equipment  or Barbara can supply at a price.

Refreshment break in The Canteen 

Friends of Southwold Library Quiz Night!

Saturday 28th January 7.00pm

Cardinal Newman Hall (Old Sorting Office)

Teams of 4 – £3 per person.  Bring your own drinks & snacks.  Raffle

Book early to avoid disappointment, limited places.

Contact Southwold Library southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk or 01502 722519

Blyth Poets “The isle is full of voices”

A poetry group meeting at Southwold Library

Friday 6^th January 2.00-3.30pm

First Friday of every month

All welcome to read or just listen.

We invite contributions of original work or well-loved poems.

Refreshment break in The Canteen

Scrabble Club

Thursday 19^th January:  Third Thursday of Every Month 2.00pm

All Equipment Supplied

Refreshment break in The Canteen

Trading Standards & Fire Safety Information

Second Tuesday of every month 10.30am – 12.00noon

Southwold Library

Lego Club!

Sundays 12.15-1.00pm

Open to kids (and adults) of all ages

This Winter we’re building: Humungous Houses

All donations of Lego welcome

Free event, no booking required.

Adults: Would you like to help with Lego Club?  Just ask staff

Kids, Come & Read to Ash the PAT Dog

Wednesdays 4pm @ Southwold Library

The Read2Dogs scheme provided by PAT helps to improve literacy skills and wellbeing in young people by developing their confidence, interest, and enjoyment in reading.

Dogs are non-judgemental and great listeners – they don’t interrupt or correct – so they aid confidence and concentration levels.  PAT Dogs are also known to encourage positive social behaviours, enhance self-esteem and inspire young people to relax and have fun.

Come and read to Ash for up to 15 minutes at a time plus enjoy a range of dog themed games, jigsaws, and crafts while you wait.

Free event, no booking required.

Southwold Library, Old Hospital Hub, Field Stile Road, Southwold IP18 6LD 01502 722519 southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk

Southwold Library Reading Group

This month we are reading:

“Good Omens” by Neil Gaiman & Terry Pratchett

Thursday 26th January 6.30pm @ Southwold Library

Pick up a book at Southwold Library

Free event, no booking required.

01502 722519 southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk

Baby Bounce & Tot Rock Southwold Library

Every Sunday & Tuesday 10.30-11.00am. 

Instruments, clapping, jogging & action rhymes.

For babies & toddlers of all ages.

If you are one of the many people who find they are having difficulties as costs rise, the “Better Together” leaflet, which was delivered alongside the winter edition of The Reydon Robin, includes information on the support available locally.

If you need support for yourself or your family, or you would like to help others in the village, the leaflet can help to connect you with services in the area. It also includes useful addresses and phone numbers. 

Read the leaflet online here

The Reydon Community Quiz Christmas Edition took place on 9 December with a bit of seasonal mayhem! Jim Archer took the role of Christmas quiz master, with a very entertaining quiz with a festive feel, which even included a bit of singing from both the quiz master and the quizzers.

Winners were ‘What! No Broadside?’ with 130 points, ‘Treacle Tarts’ in second place with 128 points, followed by ‘Three’s Company’ with 118 points. A special mention to Load of Bowls who took a bow for scoring their first ever perfect 40!

With a well-stocked and well supported raffle, the total raised was £308, and this has been donated to the Reydon Christmas Lights Committee, in appreciation of their tireless year-round work to make sure the village looks so twinkly and festive at this time of year.

A huge thanks as always to our loyal quizzers, hosts Sole Bay Bowls Club and raffle helpers. Thanksalso to Southwold Press for providing paper for the quizzes. A happy Christmas to everyone involved with the Reydon Community Quiz, and all best for 2023.

The next quiz will be held on Friday 20th January. Dates for the rest of 2023 are 17 February, 17 March, 21 April, 19 May (all fall on the third Friday of the month).

There is sometimes space for another team so do contact me if you are interested in joining us, at  ahumphry@talktalk.net 

Throughout the winter, the Blyth Valley and Southwold wildlife group organise monthly meetings where they invite guest speakers to present on various topics of interest. Here, Penny Mansfield reports on their latest meeting.

The Butterflies of Suffolk Wildlife Trust Reserves

At the November meeting of the Blyth Valley and Southwold wildlife group, Steve Aylward, from the Suffolk Wildlife Trust, gave us a wonderful presentation of the many butterflies recorded in our area.

Steve is a distinguished wildlife photographer, and the evening was a visual treat of these beautiful insects, with close-ups that allowed you to see the details on the smallest antennas, or the effect of the light on wing patterns. We learned about the varied reserve habitats:  ancient coppiced woods, meadows and grasslands, heathlands, fens and wetlands, and the returning of arable field to their natural environment. All of these support different species. Some, such as the Dingy Skipper, are in drastic decline due to habitat loss and climate change, but there are reasons to be optimistic. By returning reserves to their natural terrain, and with careful management, the butterflies have a chance to recover.

There is a resurgence of the Purple Emperor in Bradfield woods, and it is hoped that this strong flier will find other suitable areas elsewhere. The Silver Washed Fritillary has colonised all over Suffolk woods, and are seen regularly in Reydon Woods. The Wall Brown, once so common but now in chronic decline, is making a slow come-back on the grassy verges at Carlton Marshes.

The Silver Studded Blues are doing well at Blaxhall Common, but they do not fly far, emphasising the need for “wildlife corridors”.

We were left with a positive feeling that the right habitats can turn things around, which is something we can all help with in the way we manage our own gardens, no matter how small they are.

Our next meeting is on Thursday 12 January at 7.30pm in the Southwold Arts Centre, IP18 6JP. Adam Burrows, from Natural England, will be talking about East Anglia’s Changing Coastline. Admission is £4, refreshments included. Under 25’s free, and all are welcome.

Contact us at swtblythvalley@gmail.com

Coming up at Southwold Arts Centre:

Saturday 10 December, 7:30pm. The Jake Leg Jug Band, the authentic sounds of 1920s and 30s America: Jazz, Blues, Gospel, Ragtime. Their four albums have all been met with rave reviews.

‘A masterpiece of nostalgic music. The band display real virtuosity and create a wonderful sound that will be hard for any other band to repeat.’ Folk North West
Tickets £15.

Thursday 15th December, 7:30pm Christmas Stand Up Comedy Do. Our brilliant MC Justin Parnks introduces three award-winning comedians, Paul Tonkinson, Dan Evans and Johnny Awsum. Another riotous evening from WCB Comedy. Tickets £20, special offer buy 4 tickets get one free.

The return of our great Christmas panto Santa’s Christmas Show, Thursday-Saturday, 22-24 December, at 12.00 and 3.30pm. Gavin Dean and friends will take you to the North Pole to meet Santa, his elves Jingle and Jangle and head of maintenance Sparky, and the Mischievous Mrs Tinsel, plus a special guest appearance by Rudolf! Great Christmas entertainment for children and adults.
Tickets £12, free gift for each child ticket purchased.

Opera Anywhere bring Gilbert and Sullivan to Southwold Arts Centre:
Monday 2 January, 7:30pm, HMS Pinafore This timeless classic with a twist tells of mismatched love across different social classes. Will love prevail? Climb aboard to find out and enjoy a feast of fun and merriment along the way.

Tuesday 3 January, 3pm, The Pirates of Penzance An unfortunate case of mishearing sets Frederic on course to be a pirate, rather than a pilot. The twists and turns of this operetta unfold with ingenious characters, sublime lyrics and some of the best-known songs in opera.
‘Everyone in the audience was blown away with how brilliant you all are’
Tickets £5-£20.

And on Tuesday 10 January, 7:30pm, Circle 67 present Charles Dickens ‘Great Expectations’. A new dramatization of Charles Dickens’s great novel. A young boy in a deserted graveyard, a vicious convict on the loose. And what is the weird Miss Haversham offering? Tickets £9-£12.

Booking for all these events is available at southwoldartscentre.co.uk, at the Box Office in Cumberland Road (Mon-Fri 11-2) or by phoning 01502 722572.

Have your say on the EuroLink Project…

A drop in session is taking place tomorrow, Wednesday 30 November, at Stella Peskett Hall, as part of the public consultation for the EuroLink Project proposed by National Grid Ventures.

This major project aims to deliver a new electricity link between Great Britain and The Netherlands and will potentially have an impact on the Suffolk coastline.

Find out more about the project and the public consultation via the National Grid website or view the pdf