November 2005 - Issue 8
Compiled by Martin Sylvester -Town Mayor
Since my last Report prepared in not the warmest of recent summers, I am delighted to highlight a number of further positive achievements which are to the benefit of the town and to remind you of the other news stories over the period leading through to late autumn.
My Civic Functions
The Suffolk County Harvest Festival held at St Edmundsbury Cathedral afforded many in the congregation their first view of the recently completed tower. If you have not yet been to see it, I cannot recommend a visit to marvel at it’s contribution to the cathedral in high enough terms, after all there are few buildings of such stature in Europe that have taken a thousand years to complete!
Civic services in Ipswich, Needham Market and Sudbury all help to underscore the importance of upholding civic tradition in towns big and small. In an era in which the pressures of work, consumerism, change and uncertain world events are all too prevalent, the link to past practice and current recognition of individual selfless community support is worthy of ongoing respect.
After attending civic services in Hadleigh and Stowmarket in glorious sunshine, the fine weather which accompanied the Royal Opening by HRH The Duchess of Gloucester of the refurbished Seckford Almshouses was even more appropriate.
The Seckford Foundation is to be richly congratulated for the achievement of an outstanding addition and transformation to this very important and historic town building. A major project such as this is the culmination of months of careful planning, significant investment and stunning design and craftsmanship to create an overall result truly appropriate for yet further decades of social use.
A Warm Welcome
At the outset of September I was delighted to attend the induction of the new minister for Beaumont Baptist Church, the Rev’d Mark Hardingham this was both a warm welcome and a tremendous celebration for the congregation and friends.
Elmhurst Park
The official unveiling of the new public shelter in Elmhurst Park which took place with Helen McDermott on 8th September was an equally happy occasion, as it served to draw a line under a wanton act of vandalism which upset so many town people and visitors alike.
New Play Equipment for
Kingston Field
Two new roundabouts have been installed at Kingston Field. The first of which is a “wok” roundabout (it quite simply resembles a giant wok), for the under 6’s and the other is an exciting roundabout for older children, called a “Galaxy Supernova” which can be ridden on, either sitting down or standing up!
This brings the Town Council to the end of an extensive refurbishment programme, which has seen nearly £35,000 spent on replacing play equipment in this very popular play area.
Woodbridge in Bloom
The Woodbridge in Bloom Competition Awards which took place during September, was also a mark of excellence and an evening when the endeavors of both trade and private floral contributions were recognized by a dedicated and hard working committee which annually ensures the streets and gardens around Woodbridge look their very best for the judges and us all to enjoy.
Engraved Pavers
With effect from 31st December 2005, the sale of engraved pavers will cease. In previous months these pavers have proved successful and have raised over £30,000 towards the restoration of the Shire Hall, however since the end of the Summer, sales have declined dramatically and it is no longer proving cost effective to continue to sell them. We will still take orders up until this date, and will have the final batch of pavers laid during the Spring of next year.
Other fundraising events for the Shire Hall continue, such as the popular Quiz Nights held at St Audry’s Sports and Social Club. Ring the Shire Hall on 01394 383599 for further information.
The Shire Hall is available to hire
The ideal venue for your Wedding or Baby Naming Ceremony,
Party or Meeting.
For further information please telephone 01394 383599