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Breedon, the current owner of Wangford Quarry, is preparing to submit a planning application to extend the current workings southward, adjacent to the Hen Reedbeds nature reserve.
Breedon is to hold an exhibition in Wangford Village Hall on 22 February 2023 to give members of the community an opportunity to ask questions about and comment on the proposal.
The first Reydon Community Quiz of 2023 took place on 20 January, with quiz master Graham at the helm, for an entertaining quiz that got us all thinking. (Who knew how many different people have been featured on UK bank notes!?)
Winners were âThrees Company âwith 123 points, âTreacle Tartsâ in second place with 118 points, followed by âWhat, No Broadsideâ andâ Load of Bowlsâ in joint third place with 116. points
With proceeds from the quiz and the raffle, the total raised was ÂĢ345, and this has been divided equally between the Sole Bay Care Fund and Sole Bay Juniors Football Club, with our best wishes for the valuable contribution that both of these organisations make to our community.
A huge thanks as always to our loyal quizzers, hosts Sole Bay Bowls Club and raffle helpers. Thanks also to Southwold Press for providing paper for the quizzes.
The next quiz will be held on Friday 17 February. Dates for the rest of 2023 are 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, on 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.
East Angliaâs 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 ÂĢ4, refreshments included. Under 25âs free. All are welcome.
Contact us at swtblythvalley@gmail.com
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 â 12.00noon
Friends of Southwold Library Registered Charity No. 1163525
Tuesday 7th 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.
5 Week Course starting Monday 13 February 9.30am-12.00noon
A course to help you get started with your iPad or iPhone.
ÂĢ60 per person – book at Southwold Library, 01502 722519 www.ticketsource.co.uk/suffolklibraries
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
Wednesday 15 February 1.30pm, 2.45pm & 4pm @ Stella Peskett Millennium Hall
See the universe â 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!
ÂĢ5 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
Thursday 16 February 10.00am â 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 canât make this date register your interest with Southwold Library.
01502 722519 southwold.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk
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
Wednesday 22 February 2.15-4pm
Last Wednesday of every month
ÂĢ2 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
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
Thursday 16 February: Third Thursday of Every Month 2.15pm
All Equipment Supplied
Refreshment break in The Canteen
Second Tuesday of every month 10.30am â 12.00noon
Southwold Library
Sundays 12.15-1.00pm
Open to kids (and adults) of all ages
This Winter weâre 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
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 donât 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
This month we are reading:
âThe Sealwomanâs Giftâ 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
Every Sunday & Tuesday 10.30-11.00am.
Instruments, clapping, jogging & action rhymes.
For babies & toddlers of all ages.
Suffolkâs 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 ÂĢ15 per annum for a Band D property for 2023/24 and Suffolkâs PCC is proposing to use this maximum increase and is asking Suffolk taxpayers their thoughts.
The survey is now live on the PCCâs website www.suffolk-pcc.gov.uk and closes at 9am on Thursday 26th January 2023.
Tim Passmore said, âAs 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 taxpayersâ money for the maximum benefit.
âSadly, 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 ÂĢ15 increase (for a band D property) will increase the policing budget by ÂĢ3.9m and give the Constabulary the resources it needs to keep pace with demand.
âThe 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.
âWithout 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.
âI 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.â
Chief Constable, Rachel Kearton said, âAt 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.
âWhilst 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.â
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 Councilâs 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:Â https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/PCCpreceptsurvey
Communities Together East Anglia is hosting âChinwag and Community Cuppaâ sessions at Reydon Village Hall on the 2nd 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
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
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
Wednesday 25th January 2-4pm
Last Wednesday of every month
ÂĢ2 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
Saturday 28th January 7.00pm
Cardinal Newman Hall (Old Sorting Office)
Teams of 4 – ÂĢ3 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
A poetry group meeting at Southwold Library
Friday 6th 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
Thursday 19th January: Third Thursday of Every Month 2.00pm
All Equipment Supplied
Refreshment break in The Canteen
Second Tuesday of every month 10.30am â 12.00noon
Southwold Library
Sundays 12.15-1.00pm
Open to kids (and adults) of all ages
This Winter weâre 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
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 donât 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
This month we are reading:
âGood Omensâ 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
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 âBetter Togetherâ 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.
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 âWhat! No Broadside?â with 130 points, âTreacle Tartsâ in second place with 128 points, followed by âThreeâs Companyâ 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 ÂĢ308, 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 âwildlife corridorsâ.
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 Angliaâs Changing Coastline. Admission is ÂĢ4, refreshments included. Under 25âs free, and all are welcome.
Contact us at swtblythvalley@gmail.com
