Shotley News

SHOTLEY STOUR FOOTPATH RENOVATION GROUP - Open Forum

Shotley Village Hall, Wednesday 14 July 2010, 7pm - 9pm

The Babergh District Council Planning Application and Marine Management Organisation 'FEPA' licence Application for the construction of 210 metres of Erosion Protection to a section of Shotley Cliff are currently being processed.

It is a requirement of these applications that the public have the opportunity to view the proposals, and comment if appropriate. The Group will have a display available, along with copies of their applications, to show the extent of the erosion problem, and the
proposed construction work.

Members of the Group will be on hand to answer any questions relating to the proposals.

If you are interested in what we are doing, please come along to Shotley Village Hall anytime between 7pm and 9pm. You will be most welcome.

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More events have been added to "Whats On" page. Dont forget - if you know of an event that is not currently listed please send a quick e mail <click here> and we will include the details.

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Agenda for This Thursday's Parish Council Meeting

Come to Shotley Parish Council meeting, Thursday 17 June, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. Everyone welcome. Draft agenda here

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Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter.

Crimestoppers chalks up it's 100,000th arrest, Warning Over Distraction Burglars, warning to nighthawkers, warnings to bridge jumpers, appeals and more all listed here

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Get in the Game

Get in the Game is a FREE ‘Volunteering into Employment’ programme which offers unemployed adults a chance to meet new people, build their confidence, learn about ways into work and learning, develop some new skills in event organisation and gain hands-on work experience by getting involved in a local, live sports-event and working with international performance trainers to achieve this!

Who is it for: Any unemployed adults aged 16-65 years


Aims:
• to improve participants’ employability and hence their prospects of moving into sustained employment, by developing positive work-related behaviour and attitudes, i.e. the qualities, attitudes and behaviours employers look for in potential recruits;

• to help participants gain the generic work-related and occupational skills needed to get a job;

• to encourage motivation, forward planning and positive progression.

Course content:
• the development of motivational skills and stamina to ensure regular and timely attendance;

• the development of soft skills and qualities relevant to the needs of employers, including but not limited to: interpersonal skills; team working; assertiveness; problem solving; effective communication; learning to learn; and self confidence;

• a short period of job-focused occupational training, in this case by working as part of an Event Team to host a live sports event;

• information, advice and guidance into job searching opportunities, additional work experience or volunteering opportunities, speakers from local agencies which may be relevant to the group, signposting to local and national support agencies;

Day One: Thinking for Life – Where are we now, Where do we want to be?
Developing positive thinking and mindset, Forward planning and Goal setting.

Day Two: Thinking for Life – How can we achieve our goals?
Tools for effective decision-making and personal choices, Action planning.

Day Three: Planning for Success – What are transferable skills?
Identifying positive work skills and attributes, Learning to put them to practise.

Day Four: Delivering Success – Did we achieve our aims?
Applying transferable skills by volunteering at a live event, Evaluating our achievements, Discovering job opportunities and other positive routes

For more information please call 01953 713396 or email natalie@creativeartseast.co.uk

Dates & Times:
Monday 5th - Thursday 8th July 2010
9:30am – 5pm

Location:
King Edward V1 School Conference Centre, Grove Road, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3BH

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All day bus travel for £1!!

For the school summer holidays this year starting on Saturday 24 July until 4th September Ipswich Buses are offering any young person who has a Suffolk County Council Explore card or an Ipswich Buses Child ID card all day bus travel for just £1

Young travelers can buy the £1 day rover bus ticket off the driver and travel for the whole of the day for just £1 on any of our services including those to and from Shotley

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Shotley Parish Council page updated with all of the latest meeting information

Read all of the recent minutes and digests on the Shotley Parish Council page.

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Response to Haylink appeal and more

Read all of the updates on the Ganges Page.

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We need your views - Ganges to be a conservation area - proposal planned!

A proposal is being put forward to Babergh to make the Ganges site into a conservation area.

Read the full details of the proposal and what it could mean on the Ganges Page. Let us know what you think by e mailing us here

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Latest Newsletter from the StourPath Renovation Group

Read the latest news and more here

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Beware of Card Skimming when using cashpoints

Police in Ipswich are urging people to be on their guard against card skimming devices attached to bank machines by fraudsters.

The warning follows a recent incident where a skimming/cloning device was found attached to an ATM (cash point) in Clapgate Lane, Ipswich on Thursday 3rd June.

Police remind everyone to be extra vigilant when using their cards at bank ATMs and when entering their pin number into the machines.

PC Angelo Tella of the South East Ipswich Safer Neighbourhood Team says,

It may not be immediately apparent to ATM customers that there is anything suspicious about the machine, so we would urge people to be alert, and check for any signs that the machine has been tampered with. If there is anything suspicious about the machine, then customers should either alert the branch immediately, or contact police.
Customers can also take extra measures to protect themselves against fraud, such as covering the keypad with their hand when they enter their PIN, and checking their bank accounts regularly to keep track of their funds.
Details about all types of card fraud in the UK can be found at www.cardwatch.org.uk including tips on how to prevent it happening to you.
Anyone who feels they may have been the victim of fraud should contact their banks immediately. If you have concerns that a device is attached to an ATM then please contact the police on 01473 613500.

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Agenda for This Thursday's Parish Council Meeting

Come to Shotley Parish Council meeting, Thursday 17 June, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. Everyone welcome. Draft agenda here

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Items added to the classified section

Left handed gold clubs and an "as new" typewriter for sale in the classified section here

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COME AND GRAB YOURSELF A BARGAIN !!!!!

From 10am Saturday June 19th Shotley and Shotley Gate villages have 11 garage sales running alongside the fabulous annual Open Gardens event.

Come and grab yourself a bargain at one of the following locations: There will be antiques, clothes, collectibles, furniture, kitchenware, linens, paintings, tools, toys and much more

• The Ancorage, Bristol Hill
• The Moorings, Bristol Hill
• Corner of Link Road and Great Harlings
• 7 Tudor Close
• 10 Tudor Close
• 9 Baker Road
• 13 East View Terrace
• 14 East View Terrace
• The Street, Shotley
• 33 Orwell View Road
• 72 Kingsland

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Shotley Open Gardens - June 19th

Twenty Six Gardens, stretching from Wades Lane to Bristol Hill Including 3 allotments - some with chickens, Gardens with bees, Cream teas and ploughman lunches all awaits ready to welcome visitors to 'Shotley Open Gardens' event June 19th. 10am-4.30 -ish

Running alongside there will be 5 garage sales with people selling their unwanted items from their front gardens with some fabulous bargains to be had.

Entry Tickets, maps and addresses for open gardens and garage sales are £2.50 obtainable from all sign-posted gardens showing the 'Sunflower' emblem

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Letter from one of our readers

Alan Turner writes: I much enjoyed visiting your website and found it both fascinating, interesting and nostalgic. Your A-Z in particular is very useful and comprehensive but I wonder whether you are aware that there is a lovely webpage all about the Shotley naval cemetery on the internet. Recently, I have visited it several times and it is very moving and fully relevant to the people of today's Shotley. May I recommend to you the following page (click here for the link)

(note from Ed - Thank you Alan for bringing our attention to this fabulous page - I am sure many of our readers will find it most interesting)

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Village Warden - do you have a job that needs doing?

Matt, our busy Village Warden who can often be seen litter picking with this four legged friend, has placed "job request" books in both post offices ..... if you see something that you feel he could help with e.g. - a pile of litter, grafitti, something broken, overgrown trees, hedges etc obscuring the footway - please fill in a request. Alternatively, feel free to stop him and chat (just not for too long!!!!!)

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Item Wanted

Do you have a small push type lawnmower you are looking to sell, one if our readers is looking to buy one secondhand ... read the details on the wanted section

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Popular curry evening back by demand

Mr Patel will be hosting another 'Curry Evening' on Saturday 10 July at Shotley Village Hall. Last year's evening was attended by over 200 people, and they had to turn people away due to lack of room.

This year, Mr Patel is donating the proceeds to the Stourside Footpath Renovation Group. This is an excellent cause so come along and help raise funds whilst enjoying fabulous food!!!

Tickets will be on sale soon - £10 per head - and will sell out fast.

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Fancy a round of golf??

Golf clubs (and shoes) for sale - details in the classified section here

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Shotley Drama Group - Costumes for hire

Costume/Fancy dress hire, from dame costumes to military uniforms. Dinner suits, hats, evening gowns, bear costumes, fairies (good and bad) witches and even Elvis ... plus much much more!! ... All enquiries to Teresa on 01473 730319 or e mail teresaheath@tiggermail.co.uk

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Join the Shotley Walking Club on a 4½ mile sponsored walk

On Sunday June 13th - 2.30pm Summer is nearly here and what better way to get out and about and explore our wonderful villages. The walk will be from Shotley Village Hall to Erwarton Park via Rose Farm Cottages, along the River Stour to Shotley Gate and finally a stroll around the Marina and back to the Village Hall (The walk can easily be shortened for those less able by catching a bus at the bottom of Bristol Hill back to the Village Hall).

We are fundraising for the Shotley Stour Footpath Renovation Group (suggested donation £1). If you are interested, just turn up on the day or give Jill a call on 787504

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Do you have a garage you would consider renting out

One of our readers wishes to rent a garage in either Shotley or Shotley Gate. Can you help?? ... full details in the wanted section of MyShotley.

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Shotley Primary School - Family Fun Day

Bring the whole family and join in the fun on Saturday June 19th 12-3.30pm.

Disco with Nick Morrell, BBQ, Beer, Tent, Bouncy Castle, Cakes and Refreshments, Raffle, Craft Stall and much more ... plus a surprise guest!!

Fun family races for all generations to join in .... Glamorous Granny and Grumpy Grandad competition. Come and visit the blossoming school garden. Tours of the school at 1pm and 2pm.

Car Boot sale £5 per pitch. To book a pitch or a school tour contact Geraldine at the school on 01473 787255.

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HMS Ganges 404 retirement homes application - public enquiry

To be held at The Maltings Suite, Kersey Mill, Ipswich, IP7 6DP. From 10am 22 June - 24 June.

You can see copies of the evidence and other documents that the council and the Appellant will refer to during the Public Inquiry at the Council Offices during normal working hours approximately 3 weeks before the inquiry is due to take place.

You may attend the inquiry and at the discretion of the Inspector will be able to put across your views.

For more details call Babergh Planning on 01473 825858.

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Suffolk COPD services want to help you .....

Do you suffer from breathlessness?
Struggling to do the things you enjoy?
Do you have a lung condition and
are reliant on inhalers?

You could improve how you manage your breathing with a locally-held six-week pulmonary
rehabilitation course. Courses held at a variety of locations across Suffolk.
If you are interested and want to join in, contact your GP or Practice Nurse for a referral.

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Suffolk Police launch facebook page.

Suffolk Constabulary is asking members of the online community to join its new Facebook page.

The page, called Suffolk Constabulary Official Page , was launched on Monday 26 April as an additional tool for engaging with the public. It includes recent stories, information on how to report crime, current campaigns, photo albums and upcoming events.

Members can also discuss their opinions about what the police have been doing and air views about local issues via the site s discussion area. You can read more information on the Suffolk Police website here

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SPECIAL GANGES MEETING 9th June is cancelled

Please note that the Special meeting that had been called on the Ganges site for 7pm on 9th June is now cancelled.

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Local parents urged to be vigilant!

The following letter was sent home from Mel Newman, Headteacher of Shotley Community Primary on 24th May:

Dear Parents,

As many of you know, we have been made aware of an incident which happened at the Chelmondiston Village Playing fields on Friday. This incident has been verified by the police, who have said that a man in a dark coloured car tried to encourage four girls to go with him "to a party".

I urge you to be alert and to ensure that your children know who is picking them up from school and where they are to be picked up from. I also recommend you ensure that the children do not put themselves at risk when playing out around the village.

If you do see anything strange or suspicious, please inform the local police.

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Spine Road Objection Letters sent to Babergh

Read the letters and all of the latest developments on the Ganges page of this site.

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Babergh phone numbers streamlined to improve service ...

• MONEY MATTERS:01473 825798, for council tax, benefits, business rates & housing rents
• PLANNING:01473 825858 for calls relating to planning permission & development control
• COUNCIL HOUSING:01473 825727 for all calls relating to tenancy information, repairs, home alterations & disabled adaptions in council accommodation
• GENERAL ENQUIRIES:01473 826622 - for everything else

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Theft in Shotley

Between 11.30pm Sunday 23rd and 6am Monday 24th May. Kingsland, Shotley. Offenders have taken a Brenderup aluminium two-wheeled trailer from a driveway.

Were you in the area at the time, did you see anything suspicious? Do you know the name of the offender or offenders?

If you have any information please contact Suffolk Police on 01284 774100 quoting reference HH/10/731

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Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter.

Public safety information - three updates. Suffolk wide cashpoint alert. Suffolk police launch on Facebook and more all listed here

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Rescued fishermen towed by lifeboat to Shotley Marina

Fulll story here

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Shotley Open Gardens and Garage sales

Saturday 19th June. 10am - 4.30pm. We have currently 23 gardens which will open to the public!!! - running alongside the open gardens will be village garage sales. If you have any bits and pieces you wish to sell and want to do it in the luxury of your front garden, send in a request for a form here. All we ask is for a donation of takings to be given to the school PFA (via the school secretary) after the event.

Maps and tickets will be available on the day at the village hall and any garden displaying the sunflower motif poster.

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Peninsula crafts Society Exhibition.

Peninsula Crafts Society are staging their 15th Exhibition of Crafts. 10am - 4pm at the Shipwreck, The Marina, Shotley Point.

Admission is free. The members of the Society look forward to welcoming many of their regular visitors and hope to meet some new friends.

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Accostings – Ipswich Be Vigilant But Don’t Panic

Suffolk Police are asking parents to stay calm but be vigilant following reports of a male in a vehicle acting suspiciously near schools.

Two incidents were reported in the early part of last week, the first occurred between 3:20pm and 3:35pm Monday 10th May on Congreve Road in Ipswich. An 11-year-old girl was walking along the road when a male approached her and grabbed her arm. The girl tried to pull away and the male let go, before getting into a black car and driving away.

The second incident occurred between 3pm and 4pm Tuesday 11th May on Morland Road in Ipswich. A male in a vehicle approached an 8-year-old boy and told him to get in the car. The boy did not get in the vehicle and the male drove off.

Schools in the area were made aware of the incidents by letters being sent out to Head Teachers urging parents and children to be extra vigilant and reassuring them that local Safer Neighbourhood Teams are increasing patrols in the areas around primary schools at the end of the school day.

There have since been further reports, two of which are being linked to last week s offences. The first occurred in Byron Road, Ipswich. At around 12:50pm Friday 14th May a male in a vehicle stopped a 12-year-old boy as he walked along the road and asked him to get into the vehicle. The boy then ran off.

The second occurred in Beckham Road, Lowestoft. At around 4:30pm Wednesday 12th May a male shouted at a 9-year-old girl from a parked car to get in the car, as she was cycling in the street. The male then drove off.

From the descriptions given of offenders at the above four incidents police are looking for a white male, approximately 50-years-old, of slim to medium build, balding and who dresses relatively smart. The vehicle is described as a dark coloured car.

Other reports have been received by Suffolk Police but due to the nature of the alleged incidents and descriptions given they are not being linked at this stage. However, all incidents are being investigated.

Detective Inspector Stuart Sowerby from Ipswich CID says,

Obviously with incidents such as these there is a lot of concern in the community and we are aware of messages being distributed around parents, friends and family. While we encourage people to share information with the police and each other we would like to take this opportunity to ask members of the public not to become unduly concerned with messages they may receive via text or over the Internet. A pair of messages in particular, one detailing a white van with three males and a second mentioning a dark T-reg car, have both been fully investigated and we are confident that these are not involved. Instead we would advise residents to listen to information issued by Suffolk Police and schools.

There is an on-going investigation into these incidents and Suffolk Police are taking all reports very seriously. If anyone has any concerns about the way someone is acting or has any information in regards to these incidents they should contact us immediately. Detailed descriptions of offenders and their vehicle(s) including registration numbers would greatly assist police.

If anyone has immediate concerns over the way someone is acting and believe it requires a prompt police response they should call 999. If anyone has any information in relation to these incidents they are asked to contact Suffolk Police on 01473 613500

Some simple messages for children to remember:
· Never take things from strangers.
· Never get in a car with a stranger.
· Never go anywhere with a stranger.
· Never go off on your own without telling your parents or a trusted adult.

If someone scares you, or tries to touch you in ways that make you feel uncomfortable:
· YELL Tell them No or Stop .
· RUN Get home as quick as you can or somewhere you know is safe, like your school or police station.
· TELL Tell your parents or carer or someone you can trust right away.

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Robbery, Capel St Mary - Reward Offered!!

A reward of £5,000 (five thousand pounds) is being offered for information as the investigation continues into an armed robbery at Capel St Mary Post Office earlier this month.

Post Office Limited is offering the reward for information which may lead to the arrest and conviction of the offender and recovery of the stolen money following the incident on Wednesday 5th May. A spokesman for Post Office Ltd says, "This was a deplorable incident and Post Office Ltd urges anyone with information to contact the police."

Officers were called at 10.41am on Wednesday 5th May to The Street in Capel where a man had entered the Post Office with a handgun. He threatened staff and a female customer and demanded money. He was given an amount of cash and left the shop. No-one was injured. The man then left the village in a blue Ford Mondeo estate thought to be about 12 years old, driving off towards Links Road.

The offender is described as white, in his 40s, very tall and of large build, with short dark hair and was wearing a dark blue sweatshirt, blue jeans and a children s party mask coloured black, white and red.

Detective Inspector David Giles says, Whilst we have had a good response from the public and media to our appeals, I hope that with this sizeable reward more people who may have information which could assist this inquiry will come forward. I want to hear from anyone who may be able to name the offender or can give me information which will lead officers to him.

Anyone with any information about this incident should contact West Suffolk CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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Tea, toast and toys!!!

Come along to a toddler group at Shotley Primary School every Wednesday and meet other like minded parents, carers and their children. Full details here

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Meet your Safer Neighbourhood Team

Your local Safer Neighbourhood Team are holding a surgery this Wednesday, 6.30-8.00pm in the large committee room at Shotley Village Hall - Come along and meet the team.

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Shotley Peninsula Cycling Campaign - Inagural meeting

The first meeting of the Campaign group will be held at Chelmondiston Primary School, Thurs 27th May. 7.00pm. Come along to hear what we’ve achieved so far. Full details here

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Grab a bargain.

More for sale items added to the classified section

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Royal British Legion update.

Read the latest news from the Shotley, Erwarton and District branch of the Royal British Legion. Link here

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Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter.

Public safety information. Update on the post office robbery at Capel St Mary, Farm and Horse watch and more .... All of the latest information for you area here

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Grand Quiz at the Shipwreck on Friday 21st May.

Doors open 7pm, Quiz starts 7.30. £1 a head entry, maximum team size 6 people. Room and bar provided courtesy of Sarah and her Shipwreck Crew.

Prizes donated by local businesses and residents.

Local teams who could be competing:
Shotley Yacht Club, Shotley Marina, Shotley Sailing Club, The Bristol Arms, the Eggheads, the Ann Robinson family, The Rose, the Gary Richens Crew, the Parish Council Team, the Shotley Drama Group, the Shotley Gate Morris Men, the Erwarton Ferret Fanciers, the Shotley Cliffs Mountain Rescue Team...........

To confirm a team entry, or donate a prize, please contact :

Geraint Pugh 787182 g.pugh1@btinternet.com

Proceeds to the Shotley Stour Footpatth Renovation Group.

The Group is now working in partnership with Suffolk County Council, Babergh District Council,
the Environment Agency, and Shotley Parish Council. They intend to clear the temporary tyre project and install a more eco friendly system to combat the erosion on our cliffs, protecting the houses and wildlife habitats that are under threat.

We need to prove that the local community is behind this project, and start raising money ourselves,
to generate funding from outside bodies.

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An exciting schedule of events from now until the end of summer published by "The Great Outdoors"

From walks to talks, films and plays, arts and crafts ..... its all listed here and many events are free or nominal fee. The Great Outdoors – bringing unexpected arts events to unusual places this summer!

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Items both wanted and for sale added to Classified pages

Do you have anything to sell or something you need to buy. Why not place an ad with us .. Its completely free of charge

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Police urge motorists to be alert following several distraction thefts from motor vehicles.

Incidents occurred at the Sainsburys store, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, around 2pm on Tue 27th and also at the Tesco store, Anson Road, Martlesham Heath, possibly around 1.20pm. On Saturday 1st May similar incidents also occurred at Fordham Road, Newmarket at around 11am and St Saviours Interchange, Bury St Edmunds between 12.50pm and 1pm.

In all four incidents, as drivers returned to their cars in store car parks, a car pulled up blocking them in and a male described as having a foreign accent asked for directions. While the drivers were distracted bankcards were stolen from bags left inside the vehicles and the bankcards used to withdraw cash. In one instance damage was also caused the vehicle door lock, although the damage and theft was not discovered until a few days later.

Police are urging shoppers and motorists to call officers immediately if anyone approaches in a similar manner and to try to take the registration details of any vehicle being used. Police are also urging all shoppers and those using ATMs to be cautious when entering PIN numbers please ensure you conceal the keypad as you enter them and don t write the number down and leave it near your cards.
If leaving your vehicle, even if only for a few moments, please always remember to check your car is secure and ideally take any valuables with you. Anyone with information about these incidents should call the Crime Investigation Bureau on 01473 613500

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Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter.

All of the latest information for you area here

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Ganges Museum Opens for 2010

The Museum opened on Good Friday and will remain open until the end of October. The opening times are : Open Weekends and Bank Holidays, 1100 to 1700 (Last entry 1630)

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Criminal Damage - Shotley Gate

On Sunday 25th April at around 12.15am a brick was thrown at the front windscreen of a red Ford Fiesta parked on Great Harlings causing the glass to smash.

If you have any information relating to this incident please contact Hadleigh police on 01473 613500 quoting reference HD/10/576

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The 2010 Shotley and Erwarton Business and Information Directory is under contruction!!

Are you a business owner, do you run a group or club or are you part of a local organisation. To make sure you are listed in the 2010 edition of the directory click on the link here.

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Summer 2010 bus and ferry timetables released

Click on the link here to view the full timetable for our local bus services.

Note from Ed - we must say a big thankyou to Richard Pryke for putting all of the details together!

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Do you have unwanted/unused items?

2 of our readers are looking for items.

Do you have a laptop you no longer use or a fridge freezer sitting empty .......someone might want to buy them! A couple of wanted items added to the classified pages. Listed here

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Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter.

News of deliberately set fires, An invitation to view recovered property, details of "no cold calling zones", get to know your neighbours at the Big Lunch 2010 ..... all the details here

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Undergrowth fire spreads at Shotley caravan park

Read the full story here

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New items added to the for sale pages

Dont forget, if you have anything to sell why not send us the details (form on the for sale pages) and we will include them on the site FREE OF CHARGE!!

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Interested in becoming more involved in your local area? We need Neighbour Watch Co-ordinators......

There is always a need for more Neighbourhood Watch schemes in the Babergh area and particularly Shotley. At the present time there is only one operating, this is in the Blake
Avenue/ Kitchener Way area. I think you would agree this is not enough in such a large area of population.

What are the benefits of Neighbourhood Watch?

• If you live within a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme you are far less
  likely to be a victim of crime.
• Neighbourhood Watch membership can reduce your household
  insurance premium.
• You can learn how to improve your personal safety and the
  security of your home and property.
• You will feel the presence of a greater community spirit.

Each scheme needs a coordinator to head it up.....Could you spare a little time to help others in the community?

If you would like to be involved in Neighbourhood Watch in anyway or require any details or assistance, then please contact Tony Simpson, Babergh Community Watch Liaison Officer, Sudbury Police Station, Acton Lane Sudbury CO10 1QN or telephone 01284 774313 or via email at Tony.Simpson@sufolk.pnn.policeuk

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An opportunity not to be missed!! - Trip to the Tip for a Fiver.

Shotley Stour Footpath Renovation Group Fund raising.

If you need to go to the refuse disposal point and recycling centre at Chelmondiston, why not save yourself the time and ask me to do it instead. In return for a donation of £5.00 to the Footpath Renovation Project I will pick up your items and take them for you.

No more trying to squeeze stuff in the car, or having to dismantle things that are too big to go in the boot.

No more messing up your car with garden waste.

If it will fit into a 6ft x 3ft trailer and it's not hazardous waste then give me a call.

Do your bit to help preserve the Footpath and Shotley Cliff.

Please ring Gary Richens on 01473 788555 to arrange the trip.

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Have you ever felt frustrated that it isn’t as safe or easy to cycle on our lovely Shotley Peninsula as it could be? Well, that could all be about to change.

A new voluntary organisation, the Shotley Peninsula Cycling Campaign, has just been launched to campaign for safer cycling throughout the peninsula. Our initial priority will be a new off-road path suitable for all types of cyclists (commuters, school and recreational users) as well as pedestrians and wheelchair users, from Ipswich down to Shotley Gate, with links into Holbrook and Alton Water.

If you would like to hear more then come along to our inaugural public meeting on Thursday 27 May in Chelmondiston Primary School starting at 7.00pm. Your whole household can become members for just £5 per year. For more information call Cathy Crouch on 01473 780674 or email; cathyc@chelmo.net.

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Ganges Poem

.... One of our readers, David Killelay has sent in the most fabulous poem about his time at Ganges .. read it here

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Parish Council Meeting

Come to Shotley Parish Council meeting, Thursday 15 April, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. Everyone welcome. Draft agenda here

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Exciting Arts Developement scheme looking for groups to join new promoters scheme.

Home Grown is an exciting new arts development scheme that has been developed to enable community groups to bring high quality live arts events and theatre right into the heart of the community. These events bring whole communities together and without them, village life would be even more isolating.

They are looking for ten new groups to join the New Promoters Scheme, so even if you have never put on an event but are interested, here is a fantastic opportunity to find out more. New Promoters will have personalised advice sessions that will feature mentoring and marketing support regarding all aspects on how to do it and where to start. And as new groups will also receive financial subsidies against loss, Homegrown have made it as easy as possible for you to get involved and take the plunge!

Read all about it here

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TREE OF LIFE EVENTS

Refreshment for the Soul, Sat 17 Apr, 3–6pm. Chelmondiston. Our theme this month is Peace and is a guided workshop for all ages.

A Spring Celebration in Indian and European traditions. Sat 15 May, 2–6pm. Harkstead Village Hall and beach (weather permitting).

Full details of these events can be found here

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Parkinsons .... Free advice and information sessions to be held in Ipswich

Read more about it here

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Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter.

Catalytic converter thefts, Meet your SNT , another telephone scam to watch out for, distraction burglaries advice and more all here

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SPECIAL GANGES MEETING - NOW SET FOR 7pm, 9TH JUNE, MAIN HALL, SHOTLEY VILLAGE HALL.

We need your views! We will be discussing: The demolition of the buildings (see entry below), the appeal and future development.

Come and have your say! ... what would you like to see from the developers. That and much more to be discussed....

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Ganges latest

Residents living close to the site may have received a letter from Babergh saying that Haylink, the owners of the site, have applied for permission to begin demolishing buildings on the site. Neither Haylink or Babergh advised the Parish Council of this new twist in this very long tale. Urgent representations will be made to both parties to seek assurances to minimise the impact for residents and the local infrastructure and that any contamination issues will be dealt with using the best available health and safety practice. Many people will be concerned to ensure that the archaeology of the site, and the listed structures including the mast will all be safeguarded and the Parish Council will do their level best to ensure that these concerns are addressed. Many of the buildings are far from the end of their lives and we would not wish to see any building that can be brought back into useful use lost unnecessarily. Both Babergh and Haylink say that they wish to work in partnership with the local community, once again these are hollow words and we are left to play catch up. If you are at all concerned about any of these issues please write to Malcolm Firth at Babergh District Council Corks Lane Hadleigh IP7 6SJ or by e mail planning@babergh.gov.uk (please send a copy to the Clerk to the Parish Council)

Haylink have also lodged an appeal against the refusal to grant permission for the "retirement community" of 404 dwellings. The appeal will be heard at a three day public inquiry before an independent inspector probably in the early summer. The Parish Council will be a witness at the inquiry ensuring the concerns of the community are addressed. The web site will carry up to date information on the appeal as it becomes available including how individuals will be able to make representations to the inspector.

For other information on the Ganges site see details here

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Fun for everyone!!

Funfair at Shotley Village hall runs from today until 5th April. See posters around the village for more information.

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Theft in Shotley

Main Road, Shotley between 5.45pm 26/03/10 and 12.30pm 28/03/10.

A Playstation, a Nintendo Wii, accessories and games have been stolen from a container.

Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Bryan Scanlan at the Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team on 01473 613500 quoting reference HD/10/433.

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Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter

Garage and shed security, appeal for help with a robbery, theft from churches and more here

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Get your marigolds on!

Spring Clean Suffolk. Have fun with other villagers picking litter from our beach for two hours - Sat 10th April, 1-3pm. Click here for full details and meeting places

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Dont forget ... if you are concerned about coastal erosion in our region - Shoreline Snippets - Essex and South Suffolk Shoreline Management Plan are holding a public drop in session at Shotley Village Hall. This Wed, 24 March 2-7.30pm.

You can view the policy maps for our area and have any questions answered by members of the Shoreline team.

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Holbrook High School band to play at Images of Shotley weekend. Full details of the weekends events here

Read more about the history of Images

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Shotley to get a birds eye view of annual air race April 17 & 18. Read more here

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Come to Shotley Parish Council meeting, Thursday 18 Mar, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. Everyone welcome. Draft agenda here

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Images of Shotley 2010 is showing the film Mamma Mia in a film and supper night. See an updated list of events for the weekend 23/24 April here

Read more about the history of Images

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Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter here

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STOP PRESS!!!! ...........

You can now read about all of the latest developements from the Stourpath Renovation Group.

See the wonderful plans they have drawn up for the picnic area opposite the Bristol Arms and beyond........

You can read it all on their new page here

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Can you help with sponsorship .. one of our readers here in Shotley Gate is in training for 'P' Company Challenge ... Read his letter below.

It was always my intention to do the 'P' Company Challenge on Sept 12 for Help For Heroes but recently it's become more personal.

The son of a comrade, mentor and friend of mine has recently returned from Afghanistan wounded and in need of the service that this charity is providing. I served with Paul Allen in Northern Ireland in the 1980's and in January Mark Allen, his son, of the 1st Bn Royal Anglians lost both legs in an IED attack. Knowing somebody that has been personally affected has made me doubley determined to raise money for this more than worthy cause.

The 'P' Company Challenge is a multi-terrain endurance event over the Parachute Regiment 10 Mile 'P' Company Cross Country Route, carrying a bergen (rucksack) weighing 35lb (excluding food water) and wearing military style boots.

In the meantime I'm dragging my considerable frame around the Shotley Peninsula in training for the event, so if any local business would like to sponsor my back or front I would be happy to bear your name for a couple of weeks at a time for a suitable fee.

Regards, Dave "Taff" Fitzgerald, Great Harlings, Shotley Gate.

(Note from Ed ... I am sure that Dave would also welcome any private individuals who wish to sponsor him to come forward. You can donate via his charity page here)

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Remember "No Ball Games" last year? Well, its back and even better!

The "No Ball Games" play is about being 15, about being too old to play with toys and too young to go to the pub, having no money and all the time in the world. That point in all our lives when we use our imaginations to fill our time, which means for some young people that they hang around in parks, throw things at things, laugh, drink, joke, fight and upset the neighbours.

This play isn't about kicking or not kicking a ball. What it is about is the relationship between a community and its young people and what happens when we tell young people what to do and forget that sometimes it's much better if we'd just asked.

Meet Callum, Becky and Dexter, and follow them through a typical day at school, on the walk home, shut up in their bedrooms, drinking in the park, getting into trouble and dreaming about their future.

No Ball Games was devised in 2009 by The New Wolsey Theatre from the real life stories and experiences of 100's of young people in Suffolk. It is a funny, fast paced and up to date piece of young people's theatre that never says what you should and shouldn't do, but does ask everyone to think twice about the positive and negative impact they can have in their community.

We have Tickets are free on a first come first serve basis and there are 2 community performances:

Wednesday 17th March 3.45pm Sudbury Upper School
Thursday 18th March 7pm Holbrook High School Sports Centre

Check out: www.facebook.com/NoBallGames

To book call: 01473 295 930

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Viking Forest Project, Anniversary meeting this Thursday, 7.30pm at Shotley Village Hall. Join us for a presentation by a guest speaker and a glass of refreshment. Full details here, we hope you can join us.

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Spring plant Fair to be held at Helmingham Hall. Sun 30 May. 10.30-4pm. Full details here

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Tracing a family tree! ..... Another of our readers is researching her family tree - she has found lots of links to Shotley including some family names which still exist within the village. Can you help with any more information. See her letter here

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Please support your local scout troop......Scouts will be holding their annual PENNY MILE on Saturday 8th May from 10am starting at Gayford Terrace and hoping to make the village hall. Please watch out for us as you are driving through the village and all contributions will be gratefully received.

In keeping with the Scout Association's ethos of helping others this year the funds raised will be going to the Kabafita Fund, a charity in Gambia

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FREE computer desk added to our for sale pages

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New bookings secretary for the village hall announced!! ... If you wish to hire the village hall or require further information please contact Tony Prior on 788576.

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Noisy exhausts clampdown, Charity Bags advice, Cannabis factory advice .....plus much more in the latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter here .

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New items added to for sale page!! - dont forget if you have anything you want to sell - however large or small ... e mail us here with the details ..... its FREE to advertise

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Images of Shotley 2010 has an updated list of events for the weekend 23/24 April.

Click here for full details

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New business started up in Shotley!.

Ruffles operates a comprehensive mobile dog washing & grooming service ideal for anyone preferring to have their dog groomed at home. With a fully adapted van that comes to your home address Ruffles offers a less stressful experience for you and your dog.

See the website for further details

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Come to Shotley Parish Council meeting, Thursday 25 Feb, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. Everyone welcome. Draft agenda here

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Are you interested in Photography? ... did you know that we had a photo club on the Peninsula.

Info taken from their website: We are a group of photography enthusiasts who meet on a monthly basis to discuss topics regarding digital photography, and to explore how to improve our photo skills. We a based on the Shotley Peninsula in Suffolk, and have a group of about 25 members. More information here

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One of our readers is looking to rent a 2-3 bed house/bungalow in/around Shotley. Do you know of anywhere? ... Full details are on the For Sale/Wanted page.

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Funding available !!!....The Suffolk Youth Opportunity & Youth Capital funds will open again for 2010-2011 on 1 April 2010

The Youth Opportunity Fund (YOF) and Youth Capital Funds (YCF) are special funds for young people, run by young people. The funds are available to support projects and activities for young people in Suffolk, which have been developed by young people from their own ideas!

YOF support projects and activities – ‘things to do and places to go’. YCF can be used to buy things like equipment and pay for building changes.

More information here

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Update to the Neighbourhood watch Newsletter:

Beware Of Clothing Scam
There has in the past few days been a leaflet drop from a company called Helpmates Limited in a number of Babergh villages. they are asking for clothing etc to be left out for collection.

The flyers give the impression that they are a charitable organisation. They are not.

Take No Notice Of This One Either
Babergh residents have recieved telephone calls from people claiming to be from Microsoft Security when they have been using their home computer and saying th computer was working slowly.

They inform people the is a virus that can be fixed by them and the require payment by Visa or other card. They are only after your details, do not give any out!

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Reader says thanks to MyShotley. Read her letter here

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Are you ready for this year's general election?

Babergh District Council is urging residents not to wait until a date for a General Election has been announced before they secure their right to vote. More information here

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Final cutting and raking session at Golden Wood. Sun 28 Feb, 10am.

It is hoped that this job can be completed in a day, but naturally depends on number of helpers. If you can spare any time on the day it would be much appreciated as it's crucial to the wildflowers to remove the thatch before they get going in the Spring.

Hope to see you there.

Viking Forest Project

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Latest letter from Shotley Community Primary School. Term Dates and lots more information here

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Details of the latest 5 scams in our county, Community Speedwatch details, how to keep your property safe plus much more in the latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter here .

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Get your gardens ready .. its that time of year again. Shotley Open gardens will be held on 19 June, 2010. No garden is too big, no garden is too small - whatever the size or condition. Garden or allotment - please consider entering it into this fabulous event.

Entry form from 4 Orwell View Road or phone 431787.

You can see more details on the Open Gardens page. You can also see photographs of last years event here.

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Safer Neighbourhood Team report for crimes in January 2010. See a copy here

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Concerned about coastal erosion in our region - Drop in to see the proposals for our area:

Shoreline Snippets - Essex and South Suffolk Shoreline Management Plan are holding a public drop in session at Shotley Village Hall. Wed 24 March 2-7.30pm.

You can view the policy maps for our area and have any questions answered by members of the Shoreline team.

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Over 13,500 unique visitors to www.MyShotley.com in January 2010! Thankyou for your continued support ..... and keep visiting!

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Lots added to "Whats On" page. Dont forget - if you know of an event that is not currently listed please send a quick e mail <click here> and we will include the details.

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A Meeting of the Peninsula Parishes Alliance will be held in the Village Hall, Freston on Wednesday 17th February at 7.30pm see the agenda here

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A Safer Neighbourhood Tasking meeting is being held at the Methodist Church, The Street, Capel St Mary at 7.30pm Wed 17 Feb. All members of the public are invited to attend to discuss local issues and set neighbourhood priorities with Police and Partners.

Meet your SNT officers and find out what s happening in your area.

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Between 11.30pm Wed 3 Feb and 7.45am Fri 5 Feb approximately 200 black Slate tiles were stolen from a roof at a site near School Road in Shotley Gate.

Were you in the area over the times given, did you see any suspicious activity or vehicles in the area? Calls relating to this theft should be made to Hadleigh Police on 01284774100 reference HD/10/172

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Would you like faster broadband?? ...

Suffolk ACRE is working with Suffolk County Council and other key organisations to campaign for faster broadband in Suffolk including the chance of attracting government funding. Many areas of Suffolk, particularly rural but also some urban communities are seriously disadvantaged by the limited speed of their broadband service. We have a chance to improve the overall service across the county but we need your help.

Please register your interest on the EEDA site now Link here This will help us demonstrate the support and level need in Suffolk.

(Note from ed .. its really easy and only takes approx 3 mins)

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The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme for East Suffolk went live on 19 November, 2009. This scheme gives the opportunity for people aged 60 to 69 to obtain a free test kit for use in the privacy of their own home. Call free phone number, 0800 707 6060, to request a test kit.

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Suffolk historian and story teller Ed Nicholls is conducting a Suffolk Ales & Smugglers Tales Tour.

Friday 26th March at 7pm. Travelling from Ipswich to Shotley with Gemini Travel. £15.50 per head includes a 2 course evening meal and return travel. Bookings via the Ipswich Tourist Centre or directly with Gemini Travel on 01473 462721 www.geminiofipswich.co.uk

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Chickens have been killed and stolen from a number of allotments in and around Shotley in the last few weeks. Police are investigating but would be grateful for any information received about these crimes.

Capel St Mary Police Station. 01473 613500

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Councillor Steel speaks at the babergh development committee meeting, 20th jan. Read his speech here

You can keep up to date with development on the Ganges Page here

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Suffolk police issue a countywide warning on metal theft .....

Businesses and members of the public are being urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious persons or vehicles to the police, following a number of thefts of metal and associated items over the past two months.

In December 2009 there were at least 30 instances of theft of items such as scrap metal, cabling, lead from roofs, car batteries and components and pipes and plumbing supplies. So far in January 2010 (to 27th) there have been at least 46 reported thefts across Suffolk.

The value of metal has increased over time, and people should be vigilant in protecting their property and that of their neighbours. Owners of properties vulnerable to metal theft are urged to make their buildings and sites as secure as possible to keep criminals out. Where possible it is advised to use security lighting to deter thieves, and CCTV can also deter as well as capturing images of offenders and their vehicles. All gates and entrances to premises should be properly secured. Valuable property can be marked and photos taken, to identify it if it s recovered. Industrial Watches are in place in many areas, contact your Community Watch Liaison Officer on 01473 613500 for further details.

In some cases several thousand pounds worth of metal in its various forms has been stolen from premises, which takes a considerable amount of time to remove and a vehicle to transport. Any sightings of persons acting suspiciously near building sites or any property with lead roofing, or cold calling looking for scrap metal should be reported to police.

Anyone with any information about metal theft should contact Suffolk Police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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Suffolk police issue a countywide warning on fraud.....

Police are again urging anyone considering buying a dog via the internet to be alert after further reports of a scam designed to get money under false pretences were received by officers.

Suffolk Police issued a warning earlier this month after a Rendlesham resident spotted an advert on the internet for a Siberian husky puppy saying all that would be needed to buy the puppy was the cost of transportation several hundred pounds.

The buyer was told there was a shipping company involved and was asked to pay half of the cost. She was then asked for more money as refundable insurance. In total £350 was sent off to an address in Africa.

The buyer was then told that the dog was stuck at a UK airport and that further cash would be needed for permits and again several hundred pounds was requested. The buyer then contacted the airport and was told there were no dogs awaiting shipment.

At this point it was realised this was a scam and no further money was handed over.

Police have received several reports of residents in Ipswich, Stowmarket, Felixstowe and Bury St Edmunds being conned in a similar way in recent weeks with a variety of different dogs, usually puppies, including King Charles Spaniels, Pugs and English Bulldogs, being used to entice buyers.

Police are urging anyone considering buying a dog off the internet to be cautious and not to send money if there are any doubts the seller may not be genuine. In many of these cases the buyers have transferred money to banks or addresses in Africa despite the seller often giving a story that they are UK based.

As with any transaction it is always wise to speak to local sellers/ tradesmen to get quotes or view items before agreeing to purchase as many reputable companies/ dealers will be covered by other guarantees and trade association good practice.

Regards
Police Direct Team

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Does anyone have any old pictures of the brickworks they would like to share. One of our readers who is tracing her family tree would like to see some ... read her letter here

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Fire breaks out at the Suffolk Food Hall .. read the full story here

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The Shipwreck, Shotley marina are holding a "Help for Haiti" benefit gig for the victims of the earthquake. Friday 29 Jan. More information here

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Theft from Suffolk Churches. Theft of lead from a stained glass window and from a church roof have been reported as part of 3 separate incidents from rural churches in Suffolk recently.

Please be aware of these incidents and report any damage to or any suspicious activity around churches to 01473 613500, particularly in the more rural and isolated areas. If you have reason to believe a crime may be in progress please use 999

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Images of Shotley weekend 23/24 April. Friday evening is a film and supper evening at Shotley Village hall. Saturday is whole day of planned events including a Dawn Chorus walk (optional). Art Exhibition, ploughman lunch, arts and crafts and lots more. Click on the link above for full details

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Photographic genius or just a happy snapper? Do you have a picture which captures the flavour of Shotley Life? Why not submit it to Images of Shotley photographic competition.

To find out more information on the Images weekend past and present click here

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New items added to for sale page!!

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TREE OF LIFE EVENTS

Sat 20 Feb. 3-6pm Chelmondiston. An all age creative space with the Tree of Life team. More information here

Sat 20 Mar 10–3.00 pm. Woolverstone. A Creative Writing Workshop led by Liz Minister. More information here

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Heating oil theft - keep yours safe! Credit card scams - dont get caught out and much more in the latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter here .

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Come to Shotley Parish Council meeting, Thursday 19 November, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. Everyone welcome. Draft agenda here

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Message from Barbergh regarding refuse collection backlog:

Week commencing 18 January Babergh crews are on refuse and will continue to clear refuse side waste left in black sacks beside the refuse bins up to Friday 22 January. After this date Babergh will return to no side waste. Monday 18 January – the garden waste vehicle will be continuing to clear any missed recycling. Garden waste service will start as usual on Tuesday 19 January and continue for the rest of the week.
CSD & JCT to continue sending out clear sacks free of charge to Babergh residents up to Friday 22 January. Clinical, medical, trade, bulkies, bin deliveries and sacks will continue as normal

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New Parent/Toddler group for children 0-5years to run at Shotley primary school. The Cherry Blossom Children's centre are running the groups every Wednesday from Jan 13, 9-10.30am. Come along and meet other parents/carers with children of a similar age. More details here

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It’s that time again – Oh yes it is! The members of the Shotley Drama Group are counting down to the opening of their annual pantomime which this year is ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’.

Once again the group has maintained its tradition of blending new faces with established players to keep its production fresh. The show is on at Shotley Village Hall, Feb 17–20th. Tickets are £6.50 (adult), £5 (concession) & £18 (family, 2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children). Doors open at 7pm each evening & 2pm for the Sat matinee.

Tickets are on sale at both post offices and The Rose. For more information about Shotley Drama Group call Carol Blumfield on 01473 787353.

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The venue for the Babergh East Neighbourhood Panel meeting in January 2010 has changed. The meeting will now take place 7.30pm Monday 18th January at the Town Hall, Hadleigh -We look forward to seeing you there. Babergh East Safer Neighbourhood Team

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Suffolk 2012 open weekend is to be held 23-25 Jul 2010. Are you part of a group that could benefit from a grant to hold an event??

The London 2012 'Open Weekend', is an annual UK-wide celebration of art, culture, sport, and everything that makes up the London 2012 Games. It's an opportunity for local community groups to showcase themselves and inspire others.

Suffolk are launching 'Suffolk Open Weekend' to enable community groups, groups of individuals and parish or town councils across Suffolk to hold small cultural and sporting events to mark London 2012 Open Weekend. This is being supported by the Culture and Sport and Community Cohesion and Inclusion Delivery Partnerships. Further information about these partnerships can be found here. If your group or organisation would like to hold such an event, and would like to apply for a grant of up to £500, apply online at: http://www.openweekendinsuffolk.com. There are two funding rounds, the first closes on 22 January 2010 and the second on 16 April 2010. Events must be scheduled to happen within Suffolk during the '2012 Open Weekend' which is 23rd to 25th July 2010.

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East Suffolk Association for The Blind (Shotley Peninsula Branch) announces its programme of events Jan-June 2010

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New Year - New You?? .. Want to raise your general level of fitness? why not visit Peninsula Sports centre and the FITNESS GYM SUITE.

A superb fitness facility with all the latest equipment to enable you to reach the level of general health and wellbeing you want. Fully trained staff and programs designed to meet your individual needs. Excellent membership packages available. A range of classes are also available to members and non members including circuit training and aerobic sessions All facilities are open to non members and discounts are available for block or club bookings. Tel 01473 328015

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Soup-a-lunch at the village hall has been cancelled for this coming Wednesday (13 Jan). The next lunch will be held on Wed 10 Feb

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The Shotley Emergency Planning team has been in contact with the District Emergency Planning Officer. There has been a significant change in the weather forecast for our area for today, the heavy snow that was forecast has remained offshore - Shotley may experience some small flurries of snow and a brief thaw may take place. The District Emergency Planning Officer will keep in contact with the local team to assist with any local requirements.

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Shotley School closed today due to bad weather. To get up to date information on school closures click on this link to the Suffolk County Council Website

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Do you need information on whether the buses are running in the bad weather ... keep up to date with Ipswich Buses on Twitter. Link here

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Latest school newsletter from Shotley Community Primary here.

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Can you help a reader with tracing some of her ancestors who may possibly have worked at Ewarton hall in the 1700's. Read her letter on our Letters page

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Criminal Damage Shotley Gate:

Between 11.30pm Saturday 26th and 9.10am Sunday 27th December on Kitchener Way, Shotley Gate offenders have damaged a Nissan Micra that was parked in the street. Damage consists of the aerial being bent back, the wing mirrors were kicked and scratches were made on the drivers side door.

Were you in the area at the time, did you see anything suspicious? Do you know the name of the offender or offenders? If you have any information please contact Suffolk Police on 01284 774100 quoting reference HD/09/1858.

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Suffolk Constabulary are urging drivers to use caution when driving in wet and icy conditions.

At around 8.10pm on 25 Dec, 2 police units attended the A14 at Bury St Edmunds westbound where a taxi had collided with the central reservation. No-one was hurt. The two marked vehicles and cones were positioned to warn oncoming traffic.

A Ford Ka approached & collided with an officer and one of the marked vehicles. The officer & his colleague fell over the central reservation and into the eastbound carriageway. One officer suffered arm and leg injuries, the other suffered pelvic injuries, both were minor. The female driver of the Ka suffered whiplash. The A14 was closed westbound until around 3am.

Drivers are asked to slow down at the first sight of blue lights in the carriageway, to enable a safe stop if necessary, and to take extra care in wet or icy conditions.

The following advice has also been issued for drivers -

During wintry weather conditions: · Ask yourself is your journey essential?
· Check the local and national weather forecasts.
· Listen to local and national radio for travel information.
· Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive.
· Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots and a torch. In snowy conditions, take a spade.
· Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out and carry a screen scraper and de-icer.

Vehicle condition: In winter it is even more important to check your vehicle is well maintained and serviced.
· Keep the lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow.
· Keep your battery fully charged.
· Add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer bottles.
· Make sure wipers and lights are in good working order.
· Check that tyres have plenty of tread depth and are maintained at the correct pressure.

Adjust your driving to the conditions:· Hail, heavy snow and rain reduce visibility.
· Use dipped headlights and reduce your speed.
· Dazzle from winter sun can be dangerous. Keep a pair of sunglasses handy and slow down.

Rain: In wet weather, stopping distances will be at least double those required for stopping on dry roads. This is because your tyres have less grip on the road. In wet weather:
· You should keep well back from the vehicle in front. This will increase your ability to see and plan ahead.
· The rain and spray from vehicles may make it difficult to see and be seen.
· Remember - test your brakes if you have driven through a section of flooded roads before you drive at normal speed.

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Link to the website containing all Magistrate Court results , lists of the most stolen motor vehicles and more in the Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter here .

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Tree Recycling: Do you need to dispose of your Christmas Tree?? .. Collimer Close Car Park - Chelmondiston will be open for tree recycling (composting) during this coming weekend 9/10 Jan. Please can you ensure you remove all decorations!

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Bin collection: Bins in Shotley and Shotley Gate will be collected this week on Thursday 7th January (weather permitting!) instead of the usual Wednesday collection date.

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MyShotley.com would like to thank everyone for their continued support to make this website the success it is for our community and a very happy 2010

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Mrs Newman and the staff at Shotley Community Primary would like to wish all of the pupils and their families a very happy Christmas and look forward to seeing everyone at the start of the new term on Tuesday 5th January.

A letter was due to be distributed to all pupils today please click here to view a copy.

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Shotley and Chelmondiston Primary and Holbrook High all CLOSED due to the severe weather. Information taken from BBC Radio Suffolk.

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Dig out your hats, coats and scarfs ....

There is a high risk of severe weather affecting parts of east and southeastern England during Friday (tomorrow). Heavy snow showers will give accumulations of 5-10cm on low ground and 15-20cm over hills. Some drifting snow is likely in the strong north to northeasterly wind. This could cause disruption to travel networks. Outdoor events may also be affected by the snow.
For more info and advice from the met office click here:

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Your Safer Neighbourhood Team have confirmed dates for 2010 surgeries in the large committee room at Shotley Village Hall.

Time - 6.30-8.00pm

Dates: Wed Feb 24, Mon May 24, Wed August 18, Mon Nov 22

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Whats on updated with "Tree of Life" events for January

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Santa and his helpers will be at the Shipwreck On Sunday 20th December between 3-5pm. See Whats on for this and more festive/new year activities.

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Come to Shotley Parish Council meeting, Thursday 19 November, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. Everyone welcome. Draft agenda here

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Keep up to date with whats happening at the HMS Ganges Association Museum. The winter newsletter is available to read here

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Theft of motor Vehicle - Holbrook.

On Wednesday 9th December between 5pm and 5.30pm in Holbrook offenders have stolen a white Leyland Tipper lorry vehicle registration L937 ABJ from the rear of a school.

Were you in the area at the time, did you see anything suspicious? Do you know the name of the offender or offenders? If you have any information please contact Suffolk Police on 01284 774100 quoting reference BU/09/3754.

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Details of Buzzabout and bus services for Stutton, Holbrook, Harkstead and Shotley Areas over the Christmas and New Year Period available here

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DOUBLE FATAL ROAD TRAFFIC COLLISION – STUTTON

Two people who died in a road traffic collision in Stutton on Saturday 5th December, have been named by police.

Officers were contacted by the ambulance service just before 12.40pm, reporting a head-on two-vehicle collision on the B1080 between Brantham and Stutton about half a mile from the junction with the A137.

A blue Ford Focus and a white Audi were involved and the drivers of both vehicles - a woman driving the Focus and a man driving the Audi - were pronounced dead at the scene.

The woman has been named as 24 year old Sarah Lee from Colchester. The man has been identified as Matthew Anderson, also 24, of Holbrook.

A man who was a passenger in the Focus, the only other occupant of either of the vehicles, was taken to Colchester Hospital with what relatively minor injuries.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the collision. If you saw the incident or either of the vehicles on the road prior to the crash please call PC Roy Dade at the Serious Collision Investigation Team at Police Headquarters on 01473 613500.

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Pine, Single Bed and reclining green armchair added to for sale page!!

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Do you have an event you need to publicise?? .. our Whats On section looks decidedly empty - let me know any event details and I will include them on here for you (free of charge of course!!)

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Criminal Damage in Shotley Gate!

Between 9pm Saturday 28th November & 9.40am Sunday 29th November a red Rover 200 parked on Tudor Close, Shotley Gate has had the rear window shattered

Also on Great Harlings, Shotley Gate at around 9.40am Friday 27th November a property has had the draught excluder from the letter box broken off and crumpled paper has been placed into the opening.

If you have any information relating to these incidents please call Hadleigh police on 01473 613500 reference HD/09/1734

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Anglian Water to start the refurbishment of the sewage pumping station within the toilet block, Bristol Hill. Letter of notice here

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East Babergh Safer Neighbourhood Team invite you to come along to meet local police, discuss local issues and find out what is being done in your area. The meeting will be held at 2pm on Tuesday 15th December, 2009 at the Pinewood Community Centre

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The Viking Forest Project welcome your company this Sunday 6 Dec at a "Cutting and Raking" session, Golden Wood, Shotley - to include a sausage sizzle!! .. read more here

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Letter received from "ex Ganges Boy" regarding the developement on the site. Read it on the Letters page

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Shotley, Chelmondiston and Woolverstone parish councils respond to the public meeting held, Wednesday November 18 on the proposed development on the Ganges site. Click on the Parish name to read the relevant response.

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2 Seater sofa added to the sale page!!

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Read the Latest information and safety advice in your Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter here

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The webmaster for www.MyShotley.com is now offline until 1st December - any e mails and enquiries will be answered after this time.

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Come to Shotley Parish Council meeting, Thursday 19 November, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. Everyone welcome. Draft agenda here

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Holbrook High School students are donning their wigs and gowns to compete in the Bar National Mock Trial Competition at Norwich Crown Court on the 28th of November. Full article here

(click on the photograph for a larger version)

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Babergh’s Development Committee scheduled to consider the application on Ganges Site at a meeting on Wednesday November 18 - Due to the expected level of public interest the meeting will be held at the Council Offices in Hadleigh. Full details here

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Fatal road traffic collision this morning- Wherstead. Do you have any information. More details here

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Babergh DC issue the second newsletter regarding the repair and restoration of the HMS Ganges Mast ... read it here

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Tree of Life announce two new events for December. Read more here

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Local resident has written to MyShotley urging others to join him in emailing or writing to the Royal Mail to try to get a postbox re-sited:

Casper De Boer hopes that for safety and accessability reasons Royal mail will consider re-siting the post box outside Netherhall to the corner of main road and Great Harlings.

Read full details here

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Local resident Emma Graham shortlisted to the last 6 in " The Great British Garden Competition" ... read more here

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FREE TV on offer on the for sale page!!

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Babergh release a briefing note explaining the latest position on the former Ceremonial Mast. Read more here

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Swine Flu Vaccine - have you had yours yet? ... read all the information you need to know here

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THEFT- Shotley. An Erde aluminium trailer has been stolen from outside the back of a house sometime between 5pm 20/10/09 and 8am 21/10/09. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to Sgt Bryan Scanlan at the East Babergh Safer Neighbourhood Team on 01473 613500 quoting reference HD/09/1512.

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Waste Collection Changes in Babergh & Mid Suffolk. Your bin collection may be changing read more here

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On Sunday 8th November there will be a Remembrance service at St. Mary's Church Shotley in the morning. Then members of the HMS Ganges Association will reassemble at approximately 12 o' clock (depending on the arrival of a chaplain) behind the Shipwreck, near the new memorial plaque on the sea wall for a short service to honour all the boys and men who served at HMS Ganges.

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Local resident urges people to join her facebook page which has been set up to try to reinstate the midnight bus to shotley - read more and leave your comments here

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ANOTHER MISSING CAT APPEAL. Have you seen Bear? He likes to play around the Churchyard, the Vineyard and Old Hall Road in Shotley. A £50 reward is being offered for his safe return. Click on the picture for a larger image of Bear.

Please contact Harriet with any details on 07980 338953 or 01473 787441

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Dog Trainer wanted. Full details in the wanted section of the Classified Ads page. Click here for the link

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Read the Latest Local Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter here

Police are urging residents to display specially designed posters if they do not want to be disturbed by trick or treaters this year. Posters can be printed off via a link in the newsletter above.

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Whoops a Daisy to host a Crop/Crafter retreat day 8th November. 10.30-4.30pm at the Shipwreck, Shotley Marina. Click here for full details

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Come to Thursday's Shotley Parish Council meeting, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. Everyone welcome. Agenda here

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Learn how to save a life!! BBC Suffolk has teamed up with St John Ambulance to offer a free first aid course (normal cost is £25 per person) The 3 hour "How to Save a Life course" teaches emergency life support - from the recovery position, CPR, choking, life threatening bleeding and first aid for infants, children and adults.

You can register your interest in attending the course by calling 08700 10 49 50 and quoting 'BBC'. Calls cost up to 8p per minute from some landlines (a minimum connection fee of 8p may apply). Calls from other networks may vary; calls from mobiles may cost considerably more.

The St John Ambulance will contact you with a course date once the level of interest has been established.

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Come and get crime reduction advice and find out what your local Police team has been doing at the Shotley Peninsula Safer Neighbourhood Public Meeting. Holbrook Village Hall. Wednesday 21st October, 8 pm. All residents welcome.

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Throwing something away? STOP!! If you live in and around the Ipswich area, Why not offer your reusable items to members of the IpswichRecycle group. Keep it out of landfill and recycle it by making it available to others to reuse. Link to the IpswichRecycle group here.

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Shotley has a vacancy for a Parish Councillor. Want to be more active and involved in decisions that affect the village? Contact the Parish Clerk or read more details here

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Colour television for sale. Details here

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Babergh DC issue the second newsletter regarding the repair and restoration of the HMS Ganges Mast ... read it here

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Car added to for sale page. Details here

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Highways Agency to commence work at The Street, Shotley

General maintenance to the roadside ditch will be undertaken within the next 21 to 28 days between Styngham Cottages And The Corner Garage.

This should hopefully stop the surface water ponding on the carriageway after a prolonged period of moderate to heavy rainfall.

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Viking Forest Project, Cutting and Raking at Golden Wood, Shotley plus Barbecue. Sunday 27th September, Sunday 4th October and Sunday 11th October 2009. 10 o'clock onwards. Click here for details

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Telephone company scam, How to recognise a stroke, Custody visitors required and more in the latest Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter. Link here.

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Updated Tree of Life events on "Whats on" click here for details

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A reader needs her windows cleaning - does anyone have a recommendation for a local window cleaner? .. if you do please get in touch with us here

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Get fit, have fun and meet new friends......

A newly formed Morris dancing group would like to expand their members ... Miss Fits Border Morris dancers are a boisterous and energetic dance group meeting every Friday at 4.30 in Chelmondiston Primary school.

They have performed recently at Chelmondiston summer fair and The Woodbridge folk festival.

Please go along and join their group for a good stress reliever and a giggle - no prior dance experience needed.

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Misty the cat is still missing ..... can you please check any sheds, caravans, barns etc, especially if you live near the footpath from Shotley to Ewarton/'The Brickyards' Rose Farm Lane. (Click on the photograph for a larger version). Any information call Jenny on 07510 288593.

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Can you help?? We have had a request from one of our readers who is trying to trace an ancestor. Robert Maulden was a Gamekeeper who lived in Church Road, Shotley in 1891 ... More details on our letters page

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The 1st Shotley Scouts are calling out to all parents who are able and willing to help them set up a Beaver Scouts colony. Read more here.

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Fun Fair coming to Shotley Village Hall. 10,11 and 12 Sept. See posters around the village for more information.

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Village shocked and saddened by youngesters death. More

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Lots of great information in the latest Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter. Link here.

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New Domestic cleaning company launched in Shotley......Davis domestic cleaning services. Got your cleaning covered! Covering all household and domestic cleaning on the peninsular - contact nathan ovel 07743653748/01473 788926 nathanovel1980@hotmail.co.uk

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A date for your diary .... Whoops a Daisy, Bristol Hill will be hosting a Macmillian coffee morning in aid of Cancer research on Friday 25th September from 10.30 onwards. 20% of craft sales will be donated and there will be running card make and takes, a raffle and obviously lots of tea, coffee and yummy cakes!

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Shotley Surgery list their Flu Clinic dates (this is for the seasonal flu vaccine and not swine flu). Full list of dates here. If you would like help to give up smoking or lose weight click on this link.

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Looking for something to do this weekend - Don't forget the craft market at Shotley Village Hall. 12-5 Sunday 6th.

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Car added to the for sale page click here to view.

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Athletics are coming to Shotley Village Hall - commencing 17th September. If you are aged 7-14 and would like to take part please contact Caroline for further details on 787015.
Date and time are:

5.30-6.30pm. Sept 17,24. Oct 1,8,15,22/10. Nov 5,12.

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Yard Sale Monday 31 August 11-4pm at 33 Orwell View Road. Tons of bargains which include toys, books, videos, ornaments, clothes and much much more. Its going to be a lovely day so come abd bag yourselves some bargains.

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Misty is still missing, (please see the listing for 10 Aug) if you have any information please call the following numbers: 01473 788887 or 07510 288593

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Family Music Day - Sunday Sept 27. Parents, children and grandparents are being invited to launch themselves into a universe of instruments, sounds and stories during an afternoon of music-making activities in Babergh. Read more here.

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Lots on in the village this week - Beer festival at the Shipwreck, Summer Holiday activities at both Ganges Wood and Football Daycamp at the Village hall... Dont forget to check the "Whats On" page.

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THEFT- Shotley Marina. Friday Aug 14 at 4.25pm a male offender has gone on to a private pier and stolen a small amount of electric wire and then stripped the copper from inside.

Description: White male aged approx 25yrs, slim build, 5 10, short dark hair. Wearing a hooded top, white t-shirt & black track suit bottoms with white stripes down the sides. He was carrying a black holdall.

Were you in the area at the time, did you see anything suspicious? Do you know the name of the offender? If you have any information please contact Suffolk Police on 01284 774100 quoting reference HD/09/1119.

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Hamster/Gerbil cage, electric lawnmower, Hornby 00 gauge, various model railway items and boxed set of Harry Potter books added to For Sale. Victorian Coping bricks wanted ... see all items here

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Come and find out whats going on in the Village. Agenda for Shotley Parish Council Meeting Thursday 20 August. 7.15 in the large committee room, Shotley Village Hall. Everyone Welcome

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SYNC - Shotley News Youth Crew is the new group for young people in the area and they invite you to a BBQ on Tuesday 25 August to promote this new venture. Please call 07950 526020 to reserve a place - only 50p! Read more

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Award Joy for Shotley Youth Group ... read more

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Burglaries, Bogus callers, ASBO trackers and more more in the latest neighbourhood watch newsletter.

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Missing Cat!! - Click here for a larger version of his picture......Misty is a brown coloured cat (from siamese mother) with blue eyes but is big (moggy dad) and has been missing since Tues 28 Jul. Can walkers along the footpath from Shotley to Ewarton via 'The Brickyards' Rose Farm Lane be especially vigilant. Misty often goes hunting along the riverside and in the fields towards Ewarton. He is a very much loved pet. If you have any information please contact 01473 788887 or 07510 288593 or jenny.pavey@btinternet.com

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4 Aug

Babergh DC issue a newsletter regarding the repair and restoration of the HMS Ganges Mast ... read it here

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4 Aug

Play Station 3 a ladies bike and a wooden surround fire place and extras added to the for sale page

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Do you need a "Flu Friend" - Shotley Good Neighbours may be able to help you with getting prescriptions and shopping. The "Flu Friend" service is not just for the elderly. You can make contact with Good Neighbours by phoning 07799 873881 (phones manned 9am-6pm).

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See more photos and a recording of the performance given by Shotley School Children at the Surf and Turf Project held at the Shipwreck on 4th June. Click here to see the images.

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Burglary in Church Walk, Shotley .. Can you help??

Between 2.30pm 19/07/09 and 1.10pm 20/07/09. Offenders broke into a house by smashing a window and stole items including two laptops, a digital camera, a briefcase and jewellery. Calls in relation to this incident should be made to DC Tim Wheatley at Sudbury CID on 01284 774100 quoting reference HD/09/986.

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View speed camera sites (both mobile and fixed sites) from Suffolk Road Safe. Cameras being used are listed <here>

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Stolen Road Signs - Renewed Appeal. <More>

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Classified section updated with 250 books for sale ... Click here to view all adverts

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Latest Neighbourhood Watch newsletter <here>

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Dont forget the turn up and play session this Friday in Ganges Wood Play area. This and lots more can be seen in our Whats On section

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Making criminals pay - Suffolk police are asking for your help. <More>

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Do you have such a space or do you know of one? If you can help, please call Jane Chevous on 01473 780451 or Ann Baeppler on 01473 327089

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A resident in Holbrook received a telephone call last week from a female claiming to be from Suffolk Constabulary, she was offering to undertake a risk assessment on the property following a series of burglaries in the area. Suffolk Constabulary s Crime Reduction Officers only carry out security surveys for victims of crime and those who request them, and do not make cold calls. Anyone receiving an unsolicited call should not disclose any personal information, request contact details to call them back and hang up if you are unsure. Anyone with any concerns should contact Suffolk Police on 01473 613500.

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Agenda for 16 Jul Parish Council Meeting, 7.15pm Shotley Village Hall. Everyone welcome (we are very friendly!!)

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Are you attending the Lattitue festival this coming weekend. Suffolk Police have some advice on how to keep your belongings safe read more.....

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MyShotley has received an e mail from the Police regarding road sign thefts read more......

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Can you help? .. Alan has written in wondering where it was he might have stayed when visiting HMS Ganges in 1953 .. read his letter here

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Do you have an opinion on the bus service for the penninsula? See recent comments here

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Many thanks to everyone who replied to a request for broadband suppliers in the Shotley area. And a special thanks to Darryl who sent in this link to a comparison site which may help anyone looking for a supplier.

http://www.broadband-finder.co.uk/

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A reader from Holland is trying to trace a long lost friend from Shotley via our letters page... Can you help? Do you know Lupin and Donald Kier or their children Holly, Connor or Mo who may have moved to Aberdeen?? ..read the details here

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Do you have a dog which may be suitable as a police dog, is your property secure and much more in the latest neighbourhood watch newsletter <here>

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Classified section updated with Trampoline for sale ... Click here to view all adverts

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A local resident has written in and would like to know if anyone is aware of an alternative company to BT that can offer Broadband in the Shotley area? ... if you have the answer please e mail us.

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Babergh DC issue their latest e-newsletter aimed at keeping local stakeholders up-to-date about the future of the former HMS Ganges site. Read it here

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Are men being overlooked in the social stakes within the village... read on if you would like to socialise a bit more....

It was good to see that an enterprising young Mum is organising a Coffee get together for Mums at the ‘Shipwreck’ once a month.

Can I be the only bored and/or lonely ‘Silver Top’ bloke in the village, are there any other House Husbands/ Widowers / Retired men? I am retired and wondered if anyone would just like to meet up for a coffee/tea/ beer or whatever, just once in a while say once a month during the day, on a regular basis, to chat and enjoy a bit of company for an hour or so?

(I have 2 super little dogs that I love to bits, but they’re not too hot on conversation!)

Please call me on 787557, or ‘E’ mail to geoffeastwood@talktalk.net if you are interested

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Local resident express her views on the Ganges site via our letters page. Let us know your views here

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Latest local Neighbourhood Watch newsletter. Guide for rental landlords, warning to be aware of purse theives and more........

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On 20 June 2009 local residents opened their gardens (and alotments) for us to see for Shotley Open Gardens 2009.... pictures added here

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30 Jun

Monthly coffee morning at the Shipwreck. It is held the first Wedensday of every month 10-12 oclock. See What on for more info.

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New craft classes being run in Jul and Aug at Whoops a daisy craft store on Bristol Hill. Details in Whats on and more information on the website

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Week long Beer and Music Festival announced at the Shipwreck, Shotley Marina. Sat 15 Aug - Sun 23 Aug click here for a full events list

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Classified Ads section updated with more items Link here. If you have something you would like included fill out the submission form here

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Can you recommend a central heating engineer?? A local resident is having trouble getting someone to service her GEC 100 boiler - apparently they were a common fixture in the houses in Kitchener Way/Ganges Road when they were built - Do you have the same boiler and can recommend an engineer if so e mail us here

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Suffolk Police & Suffolk Trading Standards warn people to be on their guard for companies that target the vulnerable by cold-calling for the purpose of selling mobility equipment. Calls are often followed by a personal visit from a salesperson who uses hard-sell techniques to persuade the customer to buy mobility aids that they might not want. For further advice or anyone who feels that they might be a victim contact Suffolk Trading Standards on 0845 4040506.

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Not sure how to dispose of your unused paint? - Read some tips and information from Babergh <here>

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“Volunteers and the Law” is a training course run by Babergh for those who are responsible for working with or managing volunteers to understand all aspects of current legislation. To attend this Free course click here

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Is your community group ‘fit and healthy’? Why not come along for a free Health Check at one of the “Beat the Credit Crunch” Roadshow. Click <here> for dates and more information

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Third round of funding for small community grants introduced by The Babergh East Local Strategic Partnership <more>

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Suffolk’s Big Weekend will take place over the weekend of 20th and 21st June with free offers and discounts on eating out, attractions and events. Suffolk's Big Weekend

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Once again gardeners of Shotley are busy sprucing up their ‘patches’ large, small, formal or wild, for your delight! Shotley Open Gardens 20th June... read more

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Do you recognise this school cap? Is it a cap from Shotley, Suffolk? A reader has sent this picture in and would like more information. If you can shed any light on its origins please e mail us <here> (Click on photo for a larger image)

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Are you an allotment holder or gardener with excess produce? Keep chickens and produce too many eggs? If you are interested in forming a loose association of local amateur producers with a view of selling surplus produce in Shotley contact Ian Palmer 07799 371095

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Whats on updated with dates for a monthly Tea Dance. Dance (with instruction) to be held at Shotley Village Hall 2-4pm on the first Monday every month. Tickets £3 including refreshment. Contact Margaret de Boltz 788286

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The Starfish holiday club has a new theme for the summer holidays on "Love food, hate waste" find out about the many activities around this enviromentally friendly idea <here>

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Save yourself £1,000 a year and enter a free prize draw with SuffolkCarShare.com!

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Latest local Neighbourhood Watch newsletter. Rogue Trader Crackdown Yields 200 Crimes, County Wide Horse Watch Launched and more........

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NEW STORE OPENING BRISTOL HILL IN SHOTLEY GATE!!!!! Whoops a Daisy is opening its doors on 13th June and has everything you require for your crafting needs. Come and have a look - 10% off of all purchases on the opening day. For all offers and more details see <Here>

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Read the latest Activity Report for the East Suffolk Association for the Blind - Shotley Peninsula Branch

Local resident writes to Babergh's planning officer expressing his views on the application to build 404 retirement homes on the Ganges site.... read his letter <here>. Do you agree or do you have a different opinion. E mail us and let us know.

Why not celebrate Fathers Day at the "Fathers Day Fair" Suffolk Food Hall. Free Admission and Free Parking. Lots of attractions and events. In aid of the East Anglian Air Ambulance. <More information here>

Like Coffee, fancy a chat and to socialise? Then why not join a local coffee morning at the Shipwreck. It is held the first Wedensday of every month 10-12 oclock. See What on for more info.

Your new Classified Ads page with a for sale and wanted section is now up and running ...click here to view

What's On section updated with Ganges Wood Summer holiday activities in July and August. Including dates for the Skate Park, a Football daycamp and Basketball Coaching

MyShotley.com will be bringing you a new for sale/wanted section on the site very soon. Advertisements will be free of charge to local residents. If you have any items you would like to sell please e mail us including a description of the item and your contact details

Shotley Parish Council has produced a Community Emergency Plan. The plan sets out how Shotley Parish Council will provide local assistance and parish information in support of the emergency services and Suffolk Resilience in times of a major emergency. Read More <here>

Are you fed up with the state of the our footpaths in Shotley - one local resident makes their views known via our letters page.

The Shotley Annual Parish Council Meeting is this Thursday 21 May at 7.15pm in the large committee room, Shotley Village Hall. Agenda <here>

The Suffolk Foundation is looking to award grants up to £3000 to community groups on the Shotley Pennisular. For more information and a link to their website click <here>

The Suffolk Coast and Heaths Unit is currently expanding its volunteer scheme, and providing an opportunity to get involved with an important new initiative as part of work to care for the Suffolk coast and estuaries. Interested? read more <here>

Latest local Neighbourhood Watch newsletter.

Join in a celebration of new music and poetry inspired by Suffolk’s changing landscapes, traditions and memories! The Surf and Turf project - Thur 4 June 5-7pm at the Shipwreck, Shotley Marina <More>

What's On section updated with Ganges Wood Summer holiday activities in July and August.

An invite to all residents to the launch of "Youth News", A film made by a group of young people in Shotley. The film portrays a snapshot of life in the Village from both a young person's and adult perspective. Look out for the posters around the village. Tue 26 May 7-9pm Shotley Village Hall.

R M Martial Arts introduces new programmes for 2009 at the Peninsula Sports Centre, Holbrook High School. Something to suit all ages and levels of fitness. Take at look at their website for more

Are you a member of a voluntary or community group that needs more funds ... why not get some advice from Babergh Communities Together at one of their funding and development surgeries <More>

Do you have any unwanted electrical items? Fridges, toasters etc - If so take them along to the village hall car park between 10-12 on Saturday 9th May <More>

Don't forget to come along to the village hall this weekend for Images of Shotley Saturday 10-5pm and Sunday 10-4pm

Latest website statistics show that we had over 14000 unique visitors last month to the site ... why not use this as an opportunity to promote your group, organisation or event by e mailing us

ARE YOU LIVING WITH DEMETIA? If you have dementia, or are caring for someone with dementia, you will probably already be aware of how difficult it can be and wondering where you can go for information and support. More information from the The East Suffolk Branch of the Alzheimer’s Society <here>

Suffolk Police Crime Prevention experts offer top tips to prevent Bogus Callers getting away with your valuables. More information <here>

Read what your elected Parish Council have been up to, and news about your village, in the Digest of the February and March meetings.

Community groups - Babergh Communities Together are holding a network event on communicating effectively. Anyone who wishes to help their group stand out from the crowd are welcome to attend <more>

Come to Thursday's Shotley Parish Council meeting, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. <Agenda>.
Includes HMS Ganges mast update, Stour footpaths, and Church Green.mast.ma

Our apologies for this notice being published late onto the website. The Parish Clerk has had technical issues with her computer.

To all of the readers of MyShotley.com, I am sure you will join me in thanking Jeremy for his dedication and commitment to this site over the last 4.5 years and wish him all the best for the future.

I will just take this opportunity to introduce myself. I am Tess Brown and have lived in Shotley Gate with my family for the last 3 years. I am very excited to be taking the MyShotley.com website forward from here on in.

Lastly a request to any of you involved in local groups/organisations, if you have an event you would like publicised, a group that requires more members or a news item you would like to share please contact me via tessa@myshotley.com

Unwanted Vehicle Collection - Free collection during Spring Clean Suffolk, 1 to 30 April, 2009. For an application form/more information, see the Babergh Website or call 01473 825882.

Come to Tuesday's additional Shotley Parish Council Review meeting, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.30, 10 March: <Agenda>.

Register for Suffolk SAFEKey - a keyholder service offered by Suffolk Constabulary.

Are you using Twitter? Stay connected with Shotley and Babergh news, through the social networking tool everyone is talkng about. Follow twitter.com/myshotley and twitter.com/BaberghDistrict

Come to Thursday's Shotley Parish Council meeting, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15: <Agenda>. And read Digests of what the Council discussed at their December and January meetings.

Babergh is hosting its annual business evening and consultation with business ratepayers on Tuesday 3 February at the Stoke by Nayland Hotel.

Come to Thursday's Shotley Parish Council meeting, large committee room, Village Hall, 7.15. <Agenda>.
Includes HMS Ganges, youth engagement, Stour footpaths, parking at Shotley Post Office, and affordable housing.mast.mast.