Re: Tree spikers cling to Lelu Island (B.C. Views, July 20).
Tom Fletcher seems to believe protecting salmon is not only bad, but dishonest. He suggests it’s an effort to cover up an international plot to kill B.C.’s oil and gas opportunities and Alberta’s oilsands.
His column falsely asserts that, along with other groups, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation has “poured money into anti-LNG campaigns in B.C., as they funded opposition to oilsands development before them. Indeed, the record suggests the long project to establish what environmental front groups named the Great Bear Rainforest was a strategy to stop hydrocarbon exports from western Canada, even as U.S. sources ramped up production.”
The foundation’s Wild Salmon Ecosystems Initiative supports groups working to ensure that all factors – social, environmental and economic – are fairly respected in development decisions. It does not fund efforts to stop oil and gas development.
Salmon support a huge economy that provides jobs, social and cultural benefits. And, in British Columbia, unlike many other parts of North America, we still have a chance to keep most salmon watersheds intact. This is why the foundation supports the efforts of communities to protect these fish. This means ensuring that scientific evidence is fully addressed in project development, including siting decisions.
We are proud supporters of the Great Bear Rainforest, not because we are “anti” anything else, but because this is a unique region. Like the Amazon and the Great Barrier Reef, it is recognized by experts around the globe as one of the planet’s most important and unique natural wonders.
It is a region that deserved to be protected on its own merits – a fact so clear that federal, provincial and First Nation governments came together with industry and environmental groups to ensure it would be. To portray this impressive collaboration as an anti-oil and gas does a disservice to the broad array of Canadians and First Nations that prioritized its preservation.
The Moore Foundation supported this as part of our commitment to assist groups that seek to protect wild salmon habitats along the West Coast. People, issues, organizations and funds cross the Canada-U.S. border all the time. There isn’t anything unusual about Canadian environmental groups requesting and receiving donations from international foundations that share the same environmental goals.
Ivan Thompson, B.C. Program Officer, Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Vancouver

LETTER: U.S. foundations protecting salmon


Representative of Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation says it doesn't support efforts to stop oil and gas development


Jordan Bateman, Canadian Taxpayers' Federation
The B.C. government is hearing objections from businesses and individuals faced with increasing Canada Pension Plan contributions in the coming years, and is the last province needed to ratify the increase.
Instead of joining other provinces in meeting the federal government's July deadline to adopt the change, the B.C. government launched a consultation phase expected to run through August. And they are getting push-back on a plan that would increase payroll deductions and employer contributions starting in 2019.
Jordan Bateman, B.C. director of the Canadian Taxpayers' Federation, said he's receiving hundreds of responses to his call to supporters to make their views known to the B.C. government. Most concerned are employers who would pay higher contributions for each of their employees.
Employer and employee contributions are to go up from the current 4.95 per cent of earnings to 5.95 per cent by 2023. For each employee earning $54,900, the employer contribution goes up $7 to $8 per month in each of the first five years of the phase-in.
"Obviously, lots of people are concerned about having to pay more," Bateman said. "But the interesting ones are the small business owners who talk about just how close to the edge they are financially."
B.C. Finance Minister Mike de Jong joined other provinces in agreeing in principle to the expansion in June. Federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau said he is concerned about the decline in workplace pension plans and wants the CPP to move from replacing one quarter of employment income to one third by 2025.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business surveyed its members nation-wide when the CPP plan was announced, and more than 80 per cent wanted consultation and a delay of implementation. Morneau has indicated he plans to table legislation this fall.
B.C.'s refusal to sign on could derail the federal plan, but it shows little intention of doing so.
"British Columbia is committed to engaging with stakeholders in advance of ratifying the agreement in principle," said the statement from de Jong's office announcing the consultation.
The province's consultation website and feedback address can be found here.


B.C. stands in the way of Justin Trudeau government's plan to hike Canada Pension Plan contributions, but likely not for long


Cameras were the focus as 70 photographers from across B.C., including Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Kelowna and Nelson, competed in the fourth annual Next Generation BC Amateur Photographer of the Year Contest at the recent Abbotsford International Airshow.
Sponsored by London Drugs and Black Press Media, the contest took place Aug. 12-14, as participants captured their best air, crowd, static, and wildcard shots.
Photographers experienced close-up action at the airshow including Friday's twilight show, and earned the "hot-side" tour at the airshow where they shot exclusive aircraft including the F-35, CF-18, FA-18, Breitling Jet Team, the Snowbirds and more for a chance to win the title of B.C.'s next Amateur Photographer title.
Awarding categories also include The Best in-air photograph ($750 grand prize), The Best ground/static scene photograph ($500 prize),The Best crowd scene photograph ($250 prize ), The Best video submission ($500 prize) all courtesy of London Drugs and honorary acknowledgement for Best Wildcard entry.
For the People's Choice Award Winner, the time has arrived for the public to vote on their favourite photo and be entered for a chance to win BC Lions game tickets.
For voting and contest information, click here.

Voting open for People's Choice Amateur Photography Competition


Photographers from across the province competed in amateur competition


Guns seized from visitors entering Canada at the Huntington-Abbotsford border crossing, 2014.
Canadian Border Services Agency has seen a 116 per cent increase in the number of firearms seized in the Pacific Region in the first half of 2016.
With a 10 per cent increase also recorded in the Prairie region, the CBSA is working with U.S. officials on a firearms awareness campaign to remind Americans about restrictions on bringing guns into Canada.
"Attempting to smuggle firearms across the border can result in immediate forfeiture, hefty fines and even significant jail time," said Kim Scoville, CBSA's regional director general for the Prairie region.
Visitors entering the border inspection line should declare any firearms at their first opportunity. Border services officers will take possession of the weapon if it is declared, but the visitor has the option of shipping it back under CBSA supervision or surrendering it without prosecution.
The RCMP has procedures for visitors bringing firearms into Canada


Guns intercepted at Pacific region border crossings up 116 per cent compared to this time last year


Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers have reached tentative agreements, averting the prospect of a labour dispute that has loomed over the talks for months.
In a statement, Labour Minister MaryAnn Mihychuk says the agreements were reached "voluntarily," but provides no other details about the deals themselves.
The issue of differences in paycheques for rural mail carriers — most of whom are women — and urban letter carriers had been at the forefront of protracted contract talks between the two sides.
The negotiations were extended twice since the weekend, when a deadline expired on a 72-hour job action notice issued last Thursday by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers.
The two sides were in talks nearly around the clock at the request of a special mediator appointed Friday by Mihychuk.
Canada Post described the tentative agreements as short-term. It said they are for two years and that four-year contracts were typically negotiated in the past.
"The agreements will avert a work disruption, bringing much-needed certainty in the postal system for our employees and customers," said Canada Post in a statement. "Canadians can now use the postal system with confidence."
The tentative agreements, however, still must be ratified by the members.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers is Canada Post's largest union, representing more than 50,000 postal workers
The Canadian Press

Canada Post, postal union reach tentative deals


Two sides avert job action that has loomed for months


The union representing most workers at Canada Post has issued a 72-hour notice of job action as it tries to bargain a collective agreement with the Crown corporation.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers says the notice spells out what actions it is planning, but stops short of a full-blown walkout.
CUPW national president Mike Palecek says Canada Post forced the labour disruption by refusing to accept a request from the federal labour minister to continue negotiations with the help of a special mediator.
But a spokesman for the agency says that's not the case.
The union's strike mandate was set to expire at midnight.
The two sides have been in negotiations for more than nine months but are far apart on key issues including pay equity for rural carriers and proposed changes to the Canada Post pension plan.
The Canadian Press

Postal union issues strike notice after it says Canada Post refused special mediator


Notice means delivery could be cancelled as early as Monday


ICBC wants to increase basic auto insurance rates by 4.9 per cent – the fifth straight annual increase – as it continues to grapple with rising numbers of crashes, claims and dramatically increasing costs.
The typical driver will pay $3.50 a month or $42 a year more for basic insurance if the hike is approved.
But the corporation is also raising optional rates by 2.8 per cent so the average customer who buys both basic and optional insurance with ICBC will see their insurance bill rise $5 a month, or $60 a year.
ICBC CEO Mark Blucher said the basic rate hike would have been much worse – 15.5 per cent translating into a $130 annual premium increase – had the province not approved another major transfer of $472 million from the optional to the basic side of operations.
A compounding factor has been the long decline of interest rates, which result in less investment income revenue to ICBC.
"These external pressures have really created a perfect storm and it's a really significant challenge for the organization," Blucher said in an interview Thursday.
ICBC had raised rates 5.5 per cent a year ago, and the province's rate smoothing policy requires the annual change be within 1.5 per cent of the previous year's increase.
The number of crashes has climbed 15 per cent in two years and damage claims are up 11 per cent.
Vehicles are increasingly reliant on technology and expensive materials that have become more costly in recent years as the loonie sagged against the U.S. dollar.
Despite much safer vehicles, injury claims have soared to $2.4 billion, up 60 per cent from $1.5 billion in 2008.
"We've seen no evidence that these strong trends are abating," Blucher said. "In fact, if anything, they're continuing to escalate going forward."
Blucher also noted there are more cars on the road in B.C. today – 3.1 million up from 2.8 million in 2011 – and people are driving more because of cheaper gas, contributing to more accidents, particularly in densifying urban areas.
And he pointed to personal injury lawyers as an aggravating cause of ICBC's spiralling claims costs.
"B.C. is the only province in Canada where you can sue another motorist for even a minor traffic accident," Blucher said, noting an increase in lawyer-represented claims and advertising by injury law firms.
Internal operating costs have been cut by $186 million a year, and ICBC is counting on more savings ahead, through its modernization program, by more aggressively combatting insurance fraud and from a hoped-for drop in distracted driving as motorists respond to stiffer penalties.
But transfers from the optional side to bolster the basic side will likely be needed for the foreseeable future, Blucher said, because basic premiums can't keep up with rising costs.
In a surprise move, the B.C. government will this year forgo extracting its usual $160-million annual dividend from ICBC's optional side into general revenue.
"Forgoing the dividend this particular year is one strategy amongst a litany of others we're employing to get that basic trate increase down," Transportation Minister Todd Stone said.
Stone said the $514 million the province has transferred out of ICBC in dividends since 2012 is small compared to the $1.4 billion over the same period that has been shifted from the competitive optional side to basic to apply downward pressure on basic rates.
The minister would not say if the government would permanently give up the ICBC dividend.
Adrian DIx, the NDP critic for ICBC, said the dividends to government have exceeded $1.2 billion since 2010 and predicted they'll resume after next year's election because the BC Liberals are "addicted" to using ICBC as a "profit centre."
Dix said the reliance on shifting huge amounts of capital from optional to basic raises troubling questions.
"Next year they've got to find that $472 million," Dix said. "What they've done is create a disaster at ICBC and their only hope is to deceive the voters until after the election."
He said ICBC's new move to hire more claims staff underscores problems with completing the computer modernization that was supposed to make operations more efficient.
"The transformation project has taken longer than World War 2 and is not close to finished."
ICBC's basic rates rose 11.2 per cent in 2012 and at least five per cent every year since.
The new rate hike is subject to B.C. Utilities Commission approval.
ICBC Rate Pressure Charts

ICBC seeks 4.9 per cent basic rate hike as crashes, costs climb


$60 a year increase for most drivers once optional auto insurance increase is included


Premier Christy Clark and Environment Minister Mary Polak plug in an electric car at an announcement of the government's latest climate change plan in Richmond Aug. 19.
A B.C. Liberal operative was out with the online spin hours before Premier Christy Clark confirmed the much-leaked news in a Friday afternoon announcement at an obscure location in Richmond.
The, er, freeze is continuing for B.C.’s ground-breaking, world-saving carbon tax, which hasn’t changed since before Clark was elected in 2013.
The spin was Olympic-themed, with a picture labeled to show B.C. as a swimmer far out in the lead in the pool, to symbolize that it’s the other provinces that need to catch up in the race to save the planet.
Clark has been saying that for years, and there is merit to it. Even without a tax on “process emissions” such as from cement kilns, B.C.’s carbon tax encourages imports of non-taxed cement from the U.S. and China.
Alberta business professor Andrew Leach, who advised the Stephen Harper and then Rachel Notley governments on greenhouse gas policies, summed up the problem this way.
“Until the rest of the world has policies that impose similar cost, you’re not actually reducing emissions to the extent you think,” Leach said. “You’re just displacing the emissions and the economic activity to other jurisdictions.”
Alberta is moving to join B.C. with a modest carbon tax, but the NDP government plans to spend the proceeds rather than return them in income tax as B.C. has done. And Washington state and most of the rest of the world have no carbon tax as such, so their businesses benefit from B.C.’s “climate leadership.”
B.C.’s foreign-funded eco-radical community was, needless to say, appalled. The Pembina Institute’s Matt Horne and career protesters Tzeporah Berman and Merran Smith were named to the premier’s advisory committee last year, along with business, academic and aboriginal representatives.
They concluded that increases to B.C.’s broad-based tax on carbon fuels should resume its upward march in 2018.
Other committee members, including the mayors of Surrey, Comox and Burns Lake, were not heard from. Public discussion on this issue is now reduced to a staged conflict between those who demand a holy war on deadly carbon dioxide “pollution,” and those who don’t care if their grandchildren perish in a hell-fire of fossil fuel use.
We’ve just come off another El Nino year, like the hot year of 1998. Regular readers will recall the last time I discussed this topic was this spring, where I questioned the premier’s dire warnings of another horrendous forest fire season.
What followed has been one of the slowest forest fire seasons in the last decade, although dry conditions have finally emerged this month. Climate predictions, like next week’s weather forecast, are less than consistent.
I am regularly sent messages calling me a “climate change denier,” the nonsense term that continues to be used by federal Environment Minister Catharine McKenna among many others. I know of no one who denies that climate is always changing, at times dramatically.
If you wish to believe that paying an extra seven cents a litre for gasoline in B.C. is helping to slow the very gradual increase in temperatures we’re seeing in the northern hemisphere, you are free to do so.
You may even be persuaded to take a government subsidy and buy an expensive, short-range electric car. Me, I’m off to Prince Rupert and Revelstoke pretty soon, so I’ll stick with my little four-cylinder gas sipper for now.
Hydro-powered B.C. represents a small fraction of the less than two per cent Canada contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions. We’re not the problem, and no, the world is not looking to us for guidance.
Tom Fletcher is B.C. legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press. Email: tfletcher@blackpress.ca Twitter: @tomfletcherbc


Premier Christy Clark isn't going into next year's election with a promise to jack up Canada's only significant carbon tax


BC Ferries sailings have been busier this year, thanks in part to strong tourist traffic and no net fare increase.
BC Ferries plans to continue its campaign of price promotions this fall and next spring in an effort to maintain increased passenger and vehicle traffic.
First-quarter results for the Crown corporation show passenger traffic up 2.5 per cent and vehicle loads up 5.1 per cent for the three months ended June 30, compared with the same period in 2015.
Buoyed by a strong tourist year for B.C. and no net fare increase, BC Ferries carried 5.3 million passengers and 2.1 million vehicles in April, May and June. The 1.9 per cent average fare hike was erased by a reduced fuel surcharge due to long-term contracts for cheaper diesel fuel.
Helped by reduced operating costs and higher retail sales from terminals and on-board gift shops, net earnings were $27 million for the quarter, up from $18.8 million in the same period last year. Revenues were up 4.9 per cent to $219 million, while costs for the quarter went up 1.5 per cent to $178.6 million.
BC Ferries CEO Mike Corrigan released the first-quarter results at the corporation's annual meeting in Victoria, where he also announced that unspecified pricing promotions will be offered this fall and next spring. This year BC Ferries has been offering discounts on over-length vehicles pulling boats or travel trailers.
Corrigan also announced he will be stepping down as CEO at the end of the fiscal year next March. He was promoted in 2012 to replace former CEO David Hahn, and presided over a controversial service review that saw sailings reduced on money-losing routes.
Transportation Minister Todd Stone praised Corrigan for reducing operating costs and embracing new technology, including three new medium-sized ferries using liquefied natural gas fuel that have been built in Poland.
LNG retrofits are also scheduled for the Spirit of B.C. and the Spirit of Vancouver Island, the workhorses of the main Tswassen-to-Vancouver Island route.
Corrigan's term also saw the first cable ferry in the BC Ferries fleet, the Baynes Sound Connector to Denman Island. Stone said the cable ferry cut fuel costs by half.

More discounts coming as BC Ferries traffic rises


Vehicle traffic up 5% with no net fare increase and discounts offered for vehicles pulling boats and travel trailers


SURREY, B.C. – Fraser Health has launched a poster ad campaign bolstering its ongoing drive to raise awareness of what it says is the overdose crisis in British Columbia.
The posters will be displayed at transit stops, bars and restaurants, and are aimed at recreational and regular drug users, their families and friends.
One message on the stark, black and white posters says: "If you use drugs: Have a plan. Go slowly. Use with a buddy. Carry naloxone."
The posters also offer instructions for anyone finding an overdose victim, directing them to call 911, start emergency breathing and use naloxone, which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
Fraser Health says in a news release that it is confident about the effectiveness of the campaign because the posters were tested in focus groups of regular and recreational drug users.
In April, B.C.'s provincial health officer declared a public health emergency linked to the soaring number of opioid overdoses, and the declaration remains in effect.
Dr. Victoria Lee, Fraser Health's chief medical health officer, says the poster campaign is an extension of the health authority's ongoing public awareness campaign, but she says much more has been done to fight overdose deaths.
"We've created new substance-use beds to provide safe and supportive environments for people (who) require additional support on their road to recovery," Lee says in the release.
Over the last 12 to 18 months, Fraser Health has opened 50 new substance-use beds, including a three-bed program for youth and a 12-bed facility for women who are pregnant or have newborns.
A further 97 beds are slated to open by 2017 across the region, which stretches from Burnaby, through Surrey to White Rock and east to Hope.
The announcement of the poster campaign and the update on available substance-use beds comes as Fraser Health prepares to mark International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31.
The Canadian Press

New Fraser Health poster campaign raises awareness of opioid overdoses


Stark posters warn of overdose dangers to be displayed at transit stops, bars and restaurants aimed at recreational drug users


B.C. Day, on Monday, Aug. 1, is an opportunity to celebrate this spectacular province. See how well you know British Columbia.

B.C. DAY TRIVIA QUIZ: How much do you know about British Columbia?


Solitude in the wilderness is still available in B.C., between holiday weekends when demand peaks at B.C.'s most popular parks.
Foreign visitors and those on package tours are a small fraction of the demand for B.C. Parks campgrounds around the province, but B.C. resident campers are still using a few tricks to get spaces for high-demand parks.
Some have protested the use of online reservations by motorhome tour operators who sell them as part of a package for tourists.
"Our provincial campsites are not products to be sold, they belong to the people of B.C.," Green Party leader Andrew Weaver said this week.
Environment Minister Mary Polak told Black Press numbers are being tracked for the current year, and the proportions haven't changed much. In 2015, fewer than one per cent of reservable B.C. Parks spaces were booked by tour operators, who also use private camping facilities.
Three quarters of reservations are from within B.C. The second highest share is from Alberta at 14 per cent, the U.S. accounts for 3.6 per cent, the rest of Canada 2.8 per cent, and all European countries combined are 6.6 per cent of the total.
The BC Parks system has 10,700 camping spaces in total, and 5,600 are reservable, to manage demand for the most popular spots.
First-come, first-served sites are kept out of the reservation system in some popular locations to accommodate travellers who drop in along the road. For high-demand periods like the recent Canada Day weekend, savvy campers work the reservation system.
At Golden Ears Provincial Park, one group booked for two weeks as soon as the 90-day eligibility window opened, then dropped the first week, giving them the coveted Canada Day weekend dates before they were generally available.
"Every year we look to change things to keep people from cheating, and every year they find new ways," Polak said. "Really the only answer is going to be finding a way to expand the number of sites that we have available."
It's shaping up as a record year for the Discover Camping reservation service, with 92,000 bookings so far this year.
B.C. Parks has added four new sites for this summer. Reservations can be made for Garibaldi Provincial Park in the Whistler area, Ruckle Provincial Park on Saltspring Island, Okanagan Falls Provincial Park, Inland Lake Provincial Park near Powell River and Dry Gulch Provincial Park near Radium Hot Springs.

Provincial campsite rush mostly B.C. residents


Few BC Parks bookings going to commercial operators, solution is more campsite spaces, Environment Minister Mary Polak says


Prospective Pokemon trainers can officially download the mobile gaming sensation Pokemon Go in Canada as of Sunday afternoon.
The augmented-reality game launched in the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Japan earlier this month.
But before Sunday, Canadians had to find workarounds to play the game north of the 49th parallel.
The game sends players into the real world to search for the mythical digital pocket monsters known as Pokemon, who appear onscreen when users hold up their smartphones in various locations at various times of the day.
RELATED:
Pokemon Go prompts Vancouver Police warning
Canadian gamers embrace Pokemon Go
On Sunday afternoon, it was announced on the app's Twitter page that the game is available for download in Canada on Android and iOS devices.
But the app's servers overloaded in the hour after the announcement, and wannabe players had to wait a little longer before they could register an account.
The Canadian Press

Pokemon Go officially launches in Canada, virtual reality game crashes app's servers


Game that gets users out in real life with smartphones had required Canadians to find workarounds before Sunday


Courses offer loaner equipment and training in casting and proper fish handling.
Children aged five to 15 can take advantage of fishing instruction sessions being held around the province by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. this summer.
The Learn to Fish program has been running since 2006. It provides loaned fishing gear as well as instruction on how to cast and retrieve, identify different fish species, handle fish properly and fish ethically within the regulations.
Locations and registration information for Learn to Fish courses is available here.
The Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. is financed by revenue from B.C. fishing licence sales.
A sample of the instruction videos available on the society website:

Free fishing lessons for kids [with video]


Learn to Fish program offers instruction and loaner equipment to help children aged 5 to 15 catch a trout


Revelstoke dam on the Columbia River is due to have a sixth water turbine added, but Site C is BC Hydro's priority today.
BC Hydro is going ahead with its planned four per cent rate increase this year and deferring more debt to future years as it revises its electricity demand forecast downward.
The provincially-owned utility has not asked for an increase in its government-imposed rate plan despite a revised demand forecast with $3.5 billion less revenue over the next 10 years. BC Hydro has filed a three-year plan with the B.C. Utilities Commission that would increase rates four, 3.5 and three per cent in the next three years. The four per cent increase is already showing up on customer bills as an interim increase.
With the Site C dam on the Peace River and other upgrades amounting to $2 billion a year, the plan includes additional deferred debt until 2023, when Site C is due to be completed. BC Hydro CEO Jessica McDonald said the long-term nature of capital projects means its capital cost savings don't start until the next decade.
BC Hydro has also cut some of its familiar Power Smart activities, such as the fridge buy-back plan and incentives for energy efficient light bulbs.
McDonald said BC Hydro is seeing lower revenues due to two warm winters and downturns in mining and forest products. It still projects growing overall demand as population and economic growth continue.
NDP energy critic Adrian Dix said the new deferred debt represents roughly $500 for each of BC Hydro's two million customers, and it is a political move to get the B.C. Liberal government past next year's election.
The 10-year rates plan imposed by Energy Minister Bill Bennett in 2013 overstated demand to justify the construction of Site C, and translates to a 28 per cent rate increase. It allows the utilities commission to regain control over approving customer rates by 2020, after five years of political direction.
Dix said with the new demand forecast and commodity prices expected to remain low, BC Hydro should have added a sixth turbine to its Revelstoke dam for $450 million before embarking on the $9 billion Site C project.


Four per cent rate hike already in effect, more to come as BC Hydro looks for savings to offset slow industrial demand


Almost a year after B.C. farm weddings were banned due to a crackdown on agricultural land use rules, the B.C. government has clarified what commercial activities are allowed on farmland.
Farmers can host up to 10 commercial weddings, concerts or non-agricultural events per year without a permit from the Agricultural Land Commission. Farmers can take payment to host a wedding or other event as long as no more than 150 guests attend and a list of conditions are met, according to regulations that took effect Tuesday.
To qualify, event hosts must provide all parking on the farm rather than along roads, with no permanent parking lots or structures, and the event must end in less than 24 hours. For more than 10 events a year or exceeding 150 guests, properties with farm tax status must apply to the ALC for a permit.
The new regulation also clarifies ALC policies to allow, with no permit, farm tours and demonstrations, hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin patch tours, harvest and Christmas fairs and special occasion events to promote farm products.
Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick said the regulation requiring farms to generate at least 50 per cent of its revenue from farm products is also scrapped, after consultation in the past year suggested the new rules instead.
The crackdown on farm weddings came last fall, when the ALC issued stop-work orders to B.C. farms including the Fraser Valley, Kelowna and Vancouver Island.
The restriction came after the province expanded farm uses to allow breweries and distilleries to operate on protected farmland with the same rules used to permit wineries. The rules allowed for processing of farm crops into products such as juice or jam for commercial sale.


No permit required for weddings, festivals on farms if fewer than 150 people attend, says Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick


It was sweet 16 for Bury St Edmunds at the weekend as they ended a run of 15 games without a win by beating Vauxhall Mallards by six wickets.
Sean Park (5-30) took five wickets to restrict the hosts Vauxhall to 202-8, before an unbeaten century from Daron Cruickshank (128 not out) helped Bury to a winning score of 206-4, and saw them climb up to ninth in the Gibbs Denley East Anglian Premier League table.
Elsewhere, Sudbury slipped to sixth in the table after a crushing nine wicket defeat at home to Burwell, and Woolpit dropped to the foot of the table after drawing at Copdock and Old Ipswichian.
In the Dipple and Conway Opticians Norfolk League, Diss were relegated from the Premier Division after an eight wicket defeat at Downham Town.
Despite a century from Chris Cooper (120) helping Diss score a total of 244, Downham (245-2) reached the target with the loss of just two wickets, and coupled with Cromer picking up maximum points in their win over Sprowston, it meant Diss will finish the season in the bottom two.
Garboldisham climbed up to second place in the Premier Division after beating North Runcton by 69 runs, while Old Buckenham’s four run defeat at newly crowned champions Brooke saw them drop to fourth.
Elsewhere, Mildenhall stretched their lead at the top of Marshall Hatchick Two Counties Championship Division One at the weekend.
Mildenhall secured a 35 run win at home to Frinton II, while nearest rivals Wivenhoe lost at home to Witham, meaning Ben Shepperson’s men now hold a 30 point lead at the top of the table.
Haverhill, Hadleigh and Halstead all tasted victory at the weekend, with Worlington losing at home to relegation threatened Hadleigh.
EAST ANGLIAN PREMIER LEAGUE
Sudbury (0) 95 all out in 36.2 overs (G Hume 5-29) lost to Burwell (25) 99-1 in 8.5 overs (R Potter 54no) by 9 wickets.
Vauxhall Mallards (4) 202-8 in 64 overs (D Conway 60, S Park 5-30) lost to Bury St Edmunds (25) 206-4 in 49.1 overs (D Cruickshank 128no) by 6 wickets.
Copdock & Old Ipswichian (15) 296-6 dec in 60 overs (D Botha 100no) drew with Woolpit (11) 260-5 in 58 overs (M Rippon 123no).
TWO COUNTIES CHAMPIONSHIP
*home team
Division One: *Braintree (7) 253-6, lost to Halstead (18) 254-5 by 5 wickets.
Haverhill (20) 237-5, beat *Coggeshall (7) 227 by 10 runs.
*Mildenhall (18) 255-7, beat Frinton II (8) 220-7 by 35 runs.
*Worlington (7) 314-4, lost to Hadleigh (17) 317-5 5 wickets.
Division Two: *Exning (3) 129, lost to Mildenhall II (20) 130-2 by 8 wickets.
*Lakenheath (20) 256-9, beat Easton (7) 151 by 105 runs.
Dunmow (18) 309-5, beat *Long Melford (7) 223-6 by 86 runs.
Division Three: *Brockley (20) 216-7, beat Woolpit II (6) 150 by 66 runs.
*Copdock & OI II (20) 220, beat Sudbury II (7) 127 by 93 runs.
Coggeshall II (17) 306-4, beat *Halstead II (7) 210-5 by 96 runs.
*Haverhill II (0) 99, lost to Kelvedon & Feering (20) 101-0 by 10 wickets.
*Mistley II (20) 255-5, beat Tuddenham (5) 150 by 105 runs.
Division Four: Needham Market (4) 163-8, lost to *Abberton (19) 164-3 by 7 wickets.
*Bury St Edmunds II (3) 149, lost to Wivenhoe II (20) 153-2 by 8 wickets.
Felixstowe & C (19) 267-8, beat *Hadleigh II (9) 248-9 by 19 runs.
Elmstead II (8) 200-6, lost to *Mildenhall III (18) 201-6 by 4 wickets.
St Margarets (14) 204-7, tied with *Walsham le Willows (13) 204-8.
Division Five: Nacton (18) 233, beat *Bury St Edmunds III (10) 203-6 by 30 runs.
Great Bromley (1) 117, lost to *Earl Stonham (20) 121-0 by 10 wickets.
*Nowton (4) 172, lost to Kesgrave (20) 177-2 by 8 wickets.
Worlington II (4) 191-8, lost to *Witham II (19) 192-1 by 9 wickets.
Division Six: Stowmarket (20) 241-5, beat *Kelvedon & F. II (3) 108 by 133 runs.
Melton St Audrys v Long Melford II result not received.
Division Seven: *East Bergholt II (5) 142, lost to Woolpit III (20) 143-7 by 3 wickets.
Mildenhall IV (3) 134, lost to *Halstead III (20) 135-2 by 8 wickets.
*Stowupland (7) 227-9, lost to Tendring (19) 229-5 by 5 wickets.
Division Eight: Frinton III (5) 172, lost to *Battisford (20) 173-5 by 5 wickets.
Abberton II (19) 185-4, beat *Elveden (6) 177-9 by 8 runs.
Division Nine South: West Mersea II (6) 261-5, lost to *Boxted (17) 262-3 by 7 wickets.
Division Nine West: *Eye & District (20) 251-3, beat Bury St Edmunds IV (6) 197 by 54 runs, 80 overs.
Stradbroke Vikings (20) 287-4, beat *Stowmarket II (4) 131 by 156 runs.
Sunday
Ladies Challenge: *Mildenhall (18) 191-3, beat Ipswich (6) 146-7 by 45 runs.
Saffron Walden v Woolpit result not received.
Ladies T20:*Battisford (5) lost to Mistley (17) scores not received, Mistley won by 65 runs.
NORFOLK ALLIANCE
Premier Division: Brooke 223 all out beat Old Buckenham 219 all out.
Garboldisham 175 all out beat North Runcton 106 all out.
Division One: Thetford Town 207-10 lost to Stow 257-7.
Topcroft 223-10 beat Norwich II 204-10.
Division Three: Bungay 258-4 beat Mundford 80-10.
Old Buckenham II 158 all out lost to Acle II 183-9.
Division Four: Norwich III 254-7 beat Garboldisham II 250-6.
Division Six: Diss II 55 all out lost to Bradfield II 56-2.
Hales & Loddon 133 all out lost to Topcroft II 134-8.

CRICKET ROUND-UP: Bury end winless run, while Diss suffer relegation


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The 545, a brand new band showcase, is taking place at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds on Friday, September 2.
It features five of the area’s most exciting up-and- coming bands and will also celebrate the launch of the 2017 BurySOUND music competition.
Winners of BurySOUND 2016, Suburban Minds play anthemic indie-rock with soulful lyrics, layered guitars and huge drums. They have a new single ‘Leave It There’ available now.
Siah also participated in BurySOUND 2016. This local four-piece pop/punk band have recently signed to R*E*P*E*A*T Records.
Gaffa Tape Sandy are an exciting three piece punk band from Bury St Edmunds and their debut single ‘Smart Dressed Guy’ has just been released.
Hailing from Cambridge, The Abstracts are a four-piece Indie/Rock outfit with an EP available: ‘All Roads Lead To Everywhere’.
The Staycations have been garnering support from the likes of Huw Stephens from BBC Radio 1, while CLASH Magazine declared: “They make the sort of chiming indie pop that summer was invented for.”
Application forms for BurySOUND 2017 will be available on the night.
The first band starts at 7pm. Tickets are £5.
For more information, or to book, callthe box office on 01284 758000, or visit www.theapex.co.uk.

Local bands take centre stage in Bury St Edmunds


The 545, a brand new band showcase, is taking place at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds on Friday, September 2.


The high standards of care which breastfeeding mothers receive from West Suffolk Hospital have been recognised after the trust was awarded an upgrade to its “baby friendly” status.
The hospital has been awarded stage two baby friendly status by UNICEF (United Nation’s Children’s Fund) for the support it offers parents to help them make informed decisions about feeding their babies.
To achieve the status, the hospital had to demonstrate that the right training and education is in place to give staff the necessary practical skills and knowledge to successfully support breastfeeding mothers.
The hospital hopes to achieve stage three – the final milestone – by August next year. To gain the status, parents using the hospital’s maternity and neonatal services will be asked their opinions about the care they have received.
Bernadine Bramble, general manager for women and children at the hospital said: “We are absolutely delighted that we have achieved this important status, which shows that parents who have their babies at the hospital are receiving the right help to make sure their children get the best possible start in life.
“Breastfeeding protects babies against a wide range of serious illnesses, including gastroenteritis and respiratory infections in infancy as well as allergies and diabetes in childhood. It can also help protect mum too, by reducing the risk of some cancers.
“But breastfeeding isn’t always easy and lots of new mothers need support. We’re committed to making sure they get the help they need and are pleased that has been recognised by UNICEF.”
For more information about the Baby Friendly initiative, visit www.babyfriendly.org.uk

National recognition of West Suffolk Hospital’s parent and baby scheme


The high standards of care which breastfeeding mothers receive from West Suffolk Hospital have been recognised after the trust was awarded an upgrade to its “baby friendly” status.


Suffolk-based Spinning Wheel Theatre company, which brings professional and innovative productions to rural communities, is putting on a magical adaptation of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
About 30 Suffolk teenagers aged between 13 and 21 are taking part in the two-week summer school and as well as performing, they will be involved in costume, prop-making and set construction.
The family-friendly play will be directed by Spinning Wheel artistic director Amy Wyllie, designed by Becca Gibbs and is being shown at Stowmarket’s John Peel Centre on Saturday, August 27 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm and the St John’s Centre in Bury St Edmunds on Sunday, August 28 at 7.30pm.
Miss Wyllie, who studied at King Edward VI School in Bury St Edmunds before graduating in acting and performing arts from Hull University and Drama Studio London, said: “This is a unique experience in the region because it is a mini tour.
“There is nothing like that in the region at the moment. It is the closest thing young people get to gaining real work experience in the theatre profession. They are learning from professionals.”
The live adaptation of the classic C S Lewis children’s story includes puppetry, flying and buckets of magic!
“It is going to be really exciting because it is the first time Spinning Wheel Theatre has done something like this.
“It is going to be really hard work but an exciting challenge. It will be done traditionally but will be quite a physical and magical show,” Miss Wyllie added.
Tickets cost £7, or £5 for concessions, and to book visit www.spinningwheeltheatre.com.
Tickets for the shows on August 27 are available from the John Peel Centre box office by calling 01449 774678.
For more details about Spinning Wheel Theatre company follow @SpinningTheatre on Twitter or search Spinning Wheel Theatre on Facebook.

The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe visit Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket


Suffolk-based Spinning Wheel Theatre company, which brings professional and innovative productions to rural communities, is putting on a magical adaptation of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.


Textile artist and bestselling author, Helen M. Stevens, a member of the prestigious Society of Women Artists, opens her 18th one woman show at the Apex Gallery, Bury St Edmunds on August 16, with a public launch on Saturday, August 20 from 2pm–4pm.
After 35 years at the top of her profession, 12 books and a series of overseas tours, including to Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Canada, she now plans to step back from teaching, lecturing and major exhibitions to concentrate on more personal art and writing.
Her show ‘Curtain Call’ might be just that - a last opportunity to see a large body of her contemporary work at a single venue.
With exhibits ranging from work created over the last three years especially for this event, to pieces which have formed the basis for masterclasses, overseas tours and, most recently, her widely acclaimed new series of e-books and patterns, this is a fascinating insight to work of an artist who has made a lasting and unique contribution to the genre.
There is even the opportunity to acquire original, signed, page proofs from her bestselling books.
Part of the exhibition profits will be donated to the WWF in support of the Amur leopard, a rare, endangered species whose image forms the signature icon for the exhibition.
The exhibition continues until September 11.

Leading artist to hold a new one woman show in Bury St Edmunds


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Mildenhall have opened up a 30 point gap at the top of Division One after their nearest rivals Wivenhoe were comprehensively beaten by Witham. With just three games to go, surely it is theirs to lose now.
Mildenhall beat Frinton II’s by 35 runs thanks to another good knock from Steve Taylor, Mildenhall 255-7, Taylor 82, Frinton 220-7, Joe Reed 3-28.
Their remaining fixtures are Witham away this Saturday then home to Hadleigh, before finishing off with an away trip to Haverhill.
After last week’s unexpected victory, Worlington must have had high hopes of another win when they posted 314-4 against Hadleigh, thanks to Jimmy Watson 113 and Chris Baugh 108, but they were well beaten in the end by five wickets. Hadleigh made 317-5 with Tom Piddington staying undefeated on 153 not out, ably backed by Marlon Dias 69.
This Saturday, Worlington travel to Haverhill while Hadleigh entertain Wivenhoe.
Halstead beat Braintree by five wickets, Braintree 253-6, Halstead 254-5, Charlie Douglas-Hughes 73. Coggeshall are the visitors this Saturday.
Haverhill won a close encounter with Coggeshall by just 10 runs. Haverhill 237-5, Chris Palmer 67, Coggeshall 227, Palmer 3-25.
It will take a miracle now for Exning to avoid relegation as they were well beaten by local rivals Mildenhall II by eight wickets.
Exning 129, Dominic Nelson 33, Jon Allen 3-27, Mildenhall 130-2, Steve Graham 66. Exning travel to East Bergholt on Saturday.
Long Melford were well beaten by 86 runs by Dunmow, who scored 309-6 and then restricted Melford to 223-6, Cameron Stace 115 no. Melford visit Mildenhall II next.
Lakenheath earned themselves a much needed victory over Easton thanks to a century by opener Rob Horrex.
Lakenheath 223-9, Horrex 120, Easton 151-9, Adam Horrex 3-46, Paul Pallant 3-6, Tim Milner 2-11.
It’s good to see these aging bowlers turning in some good performances with the ball. It’s a trip to Dunmow next for Lakenheath on Saturday.
In Division Six, Stowmarket have won the league after beating Kelvedon and Feering by 133 runs.
Stowmarket 241-5, Michael Ives 147no, Kelvedon 108, George Tillbrook 3-20, Dale Whatling 3-13.
Their final game of the season is away at Long Melford II.
For our clubs in the top two divisions there is still a lot to play for as we head into the final three games.
Some of our sides are dangerously close to the relegation places in both divisions.
They all have tough games this weekend, but if they play to the best of their abilities then there is no reason why they shouldn’t come away with victories.
I shall be umpiring in the game at Witham, where Mildenhall are the visitors which promises to be the match of the day.
I strongly recommend a visit to the Worlington Beer Festival over the weekend, with 11 beers, five ciders and Jimmy Watson and Graham Ford the burger kings you can’t go wrong. I’ll be there on Sunday, hope to see some of you there.

Caught in the middle with Ron Raisey: Match of the Day will be on the cricket field


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Exciting, playful and inventive saxophonist, Art Themen is playing at the Hunter Club on Friday, August 26.
Art has been a beloved and legendary character on the British jazz scene for over 50 years, featuring in the bands of Alexis Korner and Stan Tracey among many other projects, and remains as brilliant and inimitable as ever.
Joining Art will be Chris Ingham on piano, Rev Andrew Brown on bass and George Double on drums.
To reserve pay-on-the-door seats, email info@headhunterslive.org or pre-pay via www.headhunterslive.org, following the TICKETS links.

Renowned saxophonist heading to Bury St Edmunds jazz venue


Exciting, playful and inventive saxophonist, Art Themen is playing at the Hunter Club on Friday, August 26.


Chantel McGregor stunned The Apex’s audience with her guitar virtuosity when she played there two years ago.
Now she’s back to showcase her own style of contemporary rock-blues.
Imagine the tone of Robin Trower, the inspiration of Hendrix, the influence of Stevie Ray Vaughan, the energy of Bonamassa, the intensity of Walter Trout and the haunting vocal of Stevie Nicks all rolled into one...that’s Chantel.
Guitar prodigy Chantel has won five British Blues Awards in the last three years, including Guitarist of the Year in 2013 and 2014, in doing so becoming the first woman to achieve it.
When Chantel was eight years old, she was the youngest person in the UK to pass a Rock school exam.
At 12, she was jamming in her native Bradford and evolving into a gifted musician.
At 14, Chantel was told by major labels that she had a “great voice, but girls don’t play guitar like that!”
Wisely ignoring the comments, she enrolled at the Leeds College of Music and became the first student in the college’s history, to achieve a 100% pass mark, with 18 distinctions.
When Chantel released her 2011 debut album, ‘Like No Other’, one critic said, “Chantel McGregor deserves to be held up as a messiah of blues-rock and given her own mountain.
She doesn’t strum or pick her guitar but almost bends and distorts it, as if she’s channeling the ghost of Hendrix through her fingers”
New album ‘Lose Control’ sees Chantel producing an exciting pantheon of rock crescendos and riffs that will please her devout blues rock fan base, but also displays a bigger and bolder rock sound with progressive influences.
Chantel explains: “I juxtaposed heavy, guitar riff-based, dark tracks with haunting, emotive acoustic tracks, whilst tying them together with the lyrical themes of desperation and loss so often seen in Southern Gothic fiction.”
Chantel plays at The Apex on Thursday, September 8 at 8pm. Tickets are £14, or £16 on the door.

Guitar Queen Chantel returns to Bury St Edmunds


Chantel McGregor stunned The Apex’s audience with her guitar virtuosity when she played there two years ago.


Comedy and pathos go hand in hand in the next production from Sudbury Dramatic Society, Bazaar and Rummage by Sue Townsend.
The play is on at 7.45pm at The Quay Theatre in Sudbury from Tuesday, September 6 to Saturday 10th.
Sue Townsend, author of the very popular Adrian Mole books, has crafted the funny and moving story of three severely agoraphobic women who, as part of a self-help group who have never met, have left their homes for the first time in years, and made it to a London church hall to run a rummage sale, organised by trainee social worker Fliss and ex-agoraphobic volunteer Gwenda.
She is helped and hindered by ex-professional singer Katrina, obsessive cleaner Isabel, loud-mouthed Margaret and Fliss, not to mention a nervous policewoman.
As the afternoon progresses, the distinction between the carers and the cared for becomes less and less clear.
But by the time they all leave it is apparent that although their agoraphobia is by no means cured but they have at least made a start.
SDS director Jon Scripps says of his all female cast: “I have watched my cast grow in confidence each week and have enjoyed watching their characters come through.
“I am looking forward to sharing our enjoyment of Bazaar and Rummage with the audience.”
Bazaar and Rummage was first staged in 1982 at the Royal Court Theatre Upstairs, London.
The SDS Quay Theatre production is set very firmly in the 1980s but audiences need to note that it contains some strong language and adult humour.
Tickets for Bazaar and Rummage are on sale now from The Quay Theatre box office on 01787 374745 or online at www.quaysudbury.com.

Adrian Mole author’s play all set for Sudbury’s Quay Theatre


The Choir of Clare College is performing at St Mary’s Church in Bury St Edmunds on August 31.
The concert is a Theatre Royal Friends fund-raising event to support the Theatre Royal.
This visit to Bury St Edmunds to perform a programme of choral works spanning the centuries under the direction of Graham Ross is guaranteed to delight.
English work by Byrd and Purcell sit alongside Bach’s motet Der Geist Hilft and Heinrich Schütz’s double-choir Magnificat, with 20th Century works of the Anglican choral repertoire by Holst, Harris, Bainton, Vaughan Williams and Tippett, including Benjamin Britten’s A Hymn to St Cecilia.
The programme concludes with Gershwin’s Summertime, a sumptuous arrangement of Nobody Does It Better and Ward Swingle’s popular Country Dances.
The Times newspaper described this choir as creating ‘music to transform your life.’
As well as regular tickets, there are a limited number of £30 tickets available. These include front row pew seats and a pre-concert drinks reception with the conductor at 6.30pm.
For tickets and further details please call the box office on 01284 769505 or visit www.theatreroyal.org.

Fund-raising concert for Bury St Edmunds Theatre Royal


The Choir of Clare College is performing at St Mary’s Church in Bury St Edmunds on August 31.


West Row is gearing itself up for an influx of cyclists over the August Bank Holiday weekend, with the Mildenhall Cycling and Fun Day taking place this Sunday.
This event replaces the Mildenhall Cycling Rally and is being held at the picturesque venue that surrounds the West Row Village Hall complex.
“The Rally was known throughout the UK’s cycling community as one of the best all-round cycling weekends that appealed to cyclists of all ages and especially families,” said Mark Burchett, the chairman of the organisers, Mildenhall Cycling Club.
“The one-day event is purely an interim measure allowing us to fully test the facilities at the new venue before we return to a three-day festival in 2017.”
As a prelude to the Cycling and Fun Day, a quiz night is being held on Saturday evening, where teams of up to six participants can enter.
The grass-track forms the centrepiece of the one-day event on Sunday, with a full day of racing planned from 10am, starting with the juvenile riders (under-16s) in the morning and then the seniors in the afternoon.
The highlight on track will be the British Cycling National 400m Championship, with the presentation of the medals at 3.30pm to be followed by a free to enter one-lap race for children.
There will also be a Watt Bike 250m Challenge for riders to test their speed, as well as regular traders from the Rally’s trade show on site.
A social ride for ladies starts at 10am and will include a cafe stop, while on the touring front there will be 57, 100, 160 and 200km rides organised by Cyclists Touring Club Suffolk.
A mega bouncy castle and face painting will also be there throughout the afternoon.
Entry is just £2 for adults and £1 for children and for more information go to www.mildenhallrally.org.uk

Mildenhall Cycling and Fun Day takes place this weekend


West Row is gearing itself up for an influx of cyclists over the August Bank Holiday weekend, with the Mildenhall Cycling and Fun Day taking place this Sunday.


Sorry, we're having problems with our video player at the moment, but are working to fix it as soon as we can
As a month long Think! Speed police campaign ends today new dash cam footage has been released showing the importance of the “twenty’s plenty” message often given for driving in residential streets.
The shocking video captures the moment a little boy gets hit by a van. The van was travelling at 20mph at the time of the collision. If it had been going just 10mph faster the likelihood of death would have been five times higher.
The shocking moment the boy ran out into the street captured on dash cam
The youngster - believed to be eight - charges out into the road between two parked vehicles and flies off the van’s bumper after being struck before tumbling onto the road and running off.
The van driver is completely unsighted and could do nothing to avoid the collision with the boy, who was badly bruised but otherwise unhurt.
Throughout August the county’s Road Policing Units have been out in force targeting motorists breaking the law.
The minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and three penalty points added to your license however drivers across the county are warned that the speed limit is a limit not a target. In some road conditions or road layouts even driving at the speed limit could be too fast.
Speed limits are not targets
Traffic Sergeant Ian Manley said: “Those who speed put not only their own lives at risk but also the lives of others.
“The faster you drive the less time you have to react. Speed remains one of the biggest factors in fatal collisions.
“The difference of a few miles per hour can mean the difference between life and death. The faster someone is driving, the less time they have to stop if something unexpected happens.
“There will be times when you need to drive under the speed limit in order to drive correctly for the conditions or layout of the road.
“I would urge anyone who drives to help us protect road users by reducing your speed and driving to the conditions of the roads.
“If you kill someone while speeding, you will have to live with the long-term emotional consequences. Remember that speed limits are there for a reason.”
* Make sure you leave plenty of time for your journey, taking into account traffic
* Watch out for changes in the speed limit
* Drive to suit the conditions and the layout of the road
* Don’t let peer pressure encourage you to break the law
* Don’t assume it’s safe to break the speed limit because there is less traffic.
* Don’t be tempted to put your foot down because the road ahead appears clear.

GRAPHIC VIDEO: Dash cam footage of young boy being hit by van gives stark warning at end of police speed campaign


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An exciting and intelligent collection of artwork can be enjoyed at this year’s annual Suffolk Artworks Exhibition being staged at Blackthorpe Barn, Rougham from September 10 to October 2.
A wide range of interpretative works are on show by the 30 artists who will be exhibiting.
Angel Rising by Genista Dunham being exhibited at Suffolk Artworks Exhibition at Blackthorpe Barn, Rougham
There are East African influences in dialogue with Suffolk agricultural lines from Cathy D’Archy, while Eileen Revett, philosopher and lover of maths, presents patterns and organised energies. Alison Jones creates works in delicate botanical observations while Genista Dunham exhibits pieces from her meditative journey through Suffolk churches and Eileen Nason portrays human life observations in her work.
This year sees the first Artworks Exhibition Award which offers a graduate student the chance to exhibit with Artworks for the year. The inaugural award goes to Roni Dean for her video and photographic work.
The event runs 10am to 5pm.
Dark Passion by Alison Jones being shown at Suffolk Artworks Exhibition at Blackthorpe Barn, Rougham

Suffolk Artworks stages its annual exhibition at Blackthorpe Barn, Rougham


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MARSHALL HATCHICK
TWO COUNTIES
CHAMPIONSHIP
DIVISION ONE
Worlington 314-4 lost to
Hadleigh 315-5
by five wickets
Worlington were defeated by a five-wicket margin in a high-scoring affair when they took on relegation-threatened Hadleigh at the weekend.
Batting first, Worlington amassed 314-4 from their 50 overs with centuries from Jimmy Watson (113) and Chris Baugh (108), who shared a third wicket stand of 176 runs.
After tea, Worlington’s opening bowling pair of Sean Cooper (1-16) and Steve Flack (1-38) then kept Hadleigh in check early on, reducing them to 54-2 with a wicket apiece.
Craig Woollard soon followed up, collecting his first wicket of the afternoon when he removed Mark Simmonds for 32.
However, Marlon Dias and Tom Piddington posted a fourth wicket stand of 168 to wrestle back control for the visitors.
Dias eventually fell for 69, and although Woollard (2-56) picked up a second wicket towards the close, Piddington was in fine form, finishing unbeaten on a match-winning score of 153.
Worlington, however, hold onto fourth spot in Marshall Hatchick Two Counties Championship Division One, ahead of a trip to Haverhill this Saturday (1pm).
n In Division Five, Worlington II made the journey to face their Witham counterparts and the title-chasing Essex side were victorious by a nine-wicket margin.
Half-centuries from 16-year-old Matt Wittish (62) and Terry Small (52) helped Worlington post a score of 191-8 from their innings.
Witham passed the total inside 41 overs and for the loss of just one wicket, finishing on 192-1 to claim the win.
n Worlington Academy enjoyed a five-wicket win at home to Battisford and District in Hunts County Bats Suffolk League Division Four on Sunday.
Wittish, Shaun Lister and Jake Goodall all took two wickets each to restrict Battisford to 147-9, before Dan Abbs (49) and Wittish (46) steered Worlington to 149-5 to secure a 10th win in a row.

Worlington lose out at home to Hadleigh in high-scoring clash


The 545, a brand new band showcase, is taking place at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds on Friday, September 2.
It features five of the area’s most exciting up-and- coming bands and will also celebrate the launch of the 2017 BurySOUND music competition.
Winners of BurySOUND 2016, Suburban Minds play anthemic indie-rock with soulful lyrics, layered guitars and huge drums. They have a new single ‘Leave It There’ available now.
Siah also participated in BurySOUND 2016. This local four-piece pop/punk band have recently signed to R*E*P*E*A*T Records.
Gaffa Tape Sandy are an exciting three piece punk band from Bury St Edmunds and their debut single ‘Smart Dressed Guy’ has just been released.
Hailing from Cambridge, The Abstracts are a four-piece Indie/Rock outfit with an EP available: ‘All Roads Lead To Everywhere’.
The Staycations have been garnering support from the likes of Huw Stephens from BBC Radio 1, while CLASH Magazine declared: “They make the sort of chiming indie pop that summer was invented for.”
Application forms for BurySOUND 2017 will be available on the night.
The first band starts at 7pm. Tickets are £5.
For more information, or to book, callthe box office on 01284 758000, or visit www.theapex.co.uk.

Local bands take centre stage in Bury St Edmunds


The next concert at Ickworth Church will feature the Edmund Octet and takes place at 4pm on Sunday, September 4.
It is the fourth visit to the church by the octet, which is very popular and has a repertoire ranging from Mozart and Palestrina to well known barber shop and light music.
All proceeds from the concert will go to the continued restoration/upkeep of Ickworth Church.
Tickets are £5 per person.
Pay on entry, but emailing john@ickworthchurch.org.uk is advisable in order to control numbers.

Popular octet set for Ickworth Church concert


Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn will be attending this Sunday’s Burston Strike School Rally, it has been confirmed.
Mr Corbyn, MP for Islington North, will replace Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, who was due to appear at the annual event, which commemorates the longest-running strike in history.
Jeremy Corbyn is a lifelong supporter of the Burston Strike School, and his presence at the rally last year gave the attendance a significant boost
A regular in recent years, his increased profile last year while competing to become Labour leader saw the rally’s attendance in 2015 swell to 3,000, and is a late addition to this year’s event.
A spokesperson for the rally said: “The organisers of the Strike School Rally unfortunately have to report that the shadow chancellor John McDonnell MP will no longer be one of the speakers at the event this year.
“John is a hugely popular figure and many people will be greatly disappointed to hear that he will not be in attendance.
“Jeremy Corbyn is a lifelong supporter of the Burston Strike School, and his presence at the rally last year gave the attendance a significant boost.”
The day’s proceedings will kick off 10.45am, with a number of bands, poets, and speakers set to attend.
Musical entertainment on the day will be provided by Steve White and the Protest Family, Red Flags, the NASUWT Brass Band, and the Banner Theatre 1st May Band, while performance poet Attilla the Stockbroker is due to perform, as well as renowned poet, humourist and musician John Hegley.
Suffolk Punches will also lead the march around the ‘candlestick’, which follows the route of the children’s original demonstration.
For more information visit www.burstonstrikeschool.co.uk

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn set to attend Burston Strike School Rally


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Puppy buyers are being warned by Suffolk Trading Standards to take care not to buy illegally imported animals
The warning comes today, National Dog Day, after Suffolk County Council’s Trading Standards team quarantined a bichon frise puppy when a vet discovered it had been brought into the UK illegally, unbeknown to her owners from Stowmarket.
The puppy has come from Romania and was found to have been given vaccination too early to be effective so it has been quarantined and will be re-vaccinated before it can be released.
An imported dog must be a minimum of 12 weeks old when vaccinated or it may be ineffective. A vaccine also takes at least 21 days before an animal is fully protected.
The regulations on animal imports protect the UK’s rabies free status.
Trading Standards is now advising people to make sure they know where their new puppy has come from and has had a health check by a vet.
Councillor Matthew Hicks, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for environment and public protection said: “The main issue around illegally imported puppies is that we cannot guarantee that the dogs are properly vaccinated and rabies-free.
“These puppies are usually sold via adverts on the internet and in newspaper small ads. The dogs are often accompanied by incomplete, false, and forged documentation which lead buyers to believe they have been imported legally or bred in the UK.”
Trading Standards advise getting as much information as possible about where the puppy has come from and be suspicious if the seller cannot show you the puppy with its mother and litter mates.
If the puppy has been vaccinated, ask to see the documentation, which must clearly state the veterinary practice that did it.
A puppy brought in from another country, should have a pet passport with a valid rabies vaccination recorded in it, which must be at least 21 days before it travelled and the dog must have been at least 12 weeks old.
Full details of the Pet Passport system can be found at www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad/overview
Anyone concerned about a puppy they have bought should contact their vet. If you suspect your puppy has been illegally imported, report it to Trading Standards on 03454 040506

Dog Day warning on illegally imported puppies


Puppy buyers are being warned by Suffolk Trading Standards to take care not to buy illegally imported animals


A 66.4-mile cycle ride would be a tough challenge for most people but for Paul Clark there is an extra difficulty.
When he takes to the road on September 25, it will be only five months after one of his legs was amputated above the knee.
Paul, from St John’s Close, Mildenhall, came up with the idea of a charity bike ride while recovering from surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
“I had a bike, but I haven’t done anything major for years,” he said. “But I started training in May. A week after my surgery I used the video gym at Addenbrooke’s.
“I thought, if I was going to get back on a bike, I’d do it to raise money.”
He chose the not-for-profit Suffolk Stars cheerleading and gym group, which meets at Mildenhall’s Dome leisure centre, and to which his daughter Ella belongs.
“My wife works, so she couldn’t take Ella but the other mums and dads made sure she was collected while I was in hospital,” he said. “The support I’ve had from family, friends and the mums and dads from the cheerleading group has been outstanding.”
So once he had his artificial leg, he set to training to show his gratitude with the target of raising £5,000 for new equipment for the Stars.
“I was doing a lot better than I thought I would be after the operation, so the consultant last week discharged me,” Paul said.
But that was not before the consultant and his wife backed the ride to the tune of £200. His planned route is to cycle from Mildenhall to Mundford, Downham Market, Ely and back to Mildenhall.
You can sponsor him at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/paul-clark-532

Paul gets on his bike to say a big thank you to Mildenhall cheerleaders


Its fun all the way as the “Purveyors of Cool” swing into The Apex, in Bury St Edmunds on Thursday, August 25 with a sensational show featuring the greatest music of the 20th century.
Wonderful memories of three incredible performers - Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Junior in a fabulous production that continues to be successful all over the world.
Now in their 15th year the show goes from strength to strength and its all totally live both musically and vocally.
The Rat Pack Orchestra are more than just great musicians as they are a show band who also join in the fun as do The Fabulous Vegas Showgirls who also add a touch of glamour to proceedings.
Every song is an absolute classic - Come Fly With Me, Under My Skin, Mr Bojangles, Lady Is A Tramp, That’s Amore, Mack The Knife plus many more of your favourites.
With an abundance of class and style they take you on a trip back in time to vintage Las Vegas hip with their timeless soiree that still remains the coolest party around.
For tickets please call the box office on 01284 758 000 or book online at www.theapex.co.uk
To see, hear and get more information about the Rat Pack, visit their website at www.ratpack.biz

Come fly with the Rat Pack iin Bury St Edmunds


Its fun all the way as the “Purveyors of Cool” swing into The Apex, in Bury St Edmunds on Thursday, August 25 with a sensational show featuring the greatest music of the 20th century.


Teenage sensation Jordan Jenkins has dropped his biggest hint to date about the possibility of riding for the Mildenhall Fen Tigers beyond the current season, writes Graham Clark.
With a host of clubs expected to fight it out for the 15-year-old’s signature over the winter, the Norwich-based rider has spoken enthusiastically of his time spent with the National League side in his two meetings to date.
After scoring nine on his debut for the West Row-based outfit against the Kent Kings earlier this month, Jenkins bettered that effort with a paid 13 total (12+1), which included three heat wins, during Mildenhall’s 61-29 defeat of the Cradley Heathens on Sunday.
“Mildenhall seems like a good place. We’ve already spoken about things,” said Jenkins.
"The management team don’t put you under any pressure.
"They help you out and when you do really well they are happy with you.
"They are very supportive and the fans are so good as well.
“Potentially I could be with Mildenhall Speedway next year but we will see what happens."
While no deal has been struck yet one thing Jenkins, who will be starting his GCSE exams at Sprowston High School next month, will not be swayed by when making his final decision is money.
“It is not all about the money it is about the club,” added Jenkins.
“Some people chuck lots of money at you then treat you like rubbish.”

Jenkins is not ruling out link up with Fen Tigers in 2017


Teenage sensation Jordan Jenkins has dropped his biggest hint to date about the possibility of riding for the Mildenhall Fen Tigers beyond the current season, writes Graham Clark.


Chris Ingham previews the best jazz gigs around the region this week.
Friday, August 26
ART THEMEN QUARTET: (Hunter Club, Bury, 8pm, £12. Details: www.headhunterslive.org) A fantastically exciting, playful and inventive saxophonist, Art Themen has been a beloved character of the British jazz scene for over 50 years, in bands led by Alexis Korner and Stan Tracey among many others, and remains as brilliant and inimitable as ever. With Chris Ingham (piano), Rev. Andrew Brown (bass) and George Double (drums).
DEREK NASH SAX APPEAL: (Stoke By Nayland Golf Club, 8pm, £18. Details: www.fleecejazz.org.uk) Legendary band led by Nash for over 30 years featuring a 5-piece saxophone section (Derek Nash, Bob McKay, Scott Garland, Brandon Allen, Vasilis Xenopoulos) plus Pete Adams (keys), Phil Scragg (bass) and Mike Bradley (drums).
Sunday, August 28:
SARAH MOULE: (The Apex Lounge, Bury, 11.30am, £9.50. Details: www.theapex.co.uk) The August edition of the Apex’s Sunday Songbook brunchtime sessions. For six years the featured singer with the John Wilson Orchestra, Sarah Moule is one of Britain’s great interpreters, with Chris Ingham (piano), Owen Morgan (bass) and George Double (drums).
TRACKS: (The Bell Hotel, Clare, 7.30pm, £10. Details: www.jazz-nights.com) An acoustic version of the jazz-rock fusion band formed in the late 1970s which led to the formation of Shakatak featuring current Shakatak members Bill Sharpe (keys) and Roger Odell (drums) with ex-member Keith Winter (guitar) plus Martin Elliot (bass).
ANDY BOWIE QUARTET: (Tram Shed, Cambridge, 8pm, free) Tenor saxophone-playing philosophy professor leads a quartet presenting a connoisseur’s choice from the modern jazz repertoire.
Monday, August 29
JAZZ JAM: (The Fat Cat & Canary, Norwich, 8.30pm, free. Details: www.jazzjam.org.uk) Established and friendly jam session led by guitarist Lee Vasey. All instrumentalists and singers welcome for sitting in.
Thursday, September 1
SOLE BAY JAZZ BAND: (Sports Pavilion, Ditchingham, 8pm) Long established traditional group usually featuring Tim Densham (saxophone/clarinet), Ron Hockett (saxophone/clarinet), Bill Brewer (trombone), Ray Simmons (piano), Tony Jullings (bass), Craig Hipperson (drums) and Alan Cugnoni (guitar).
Friday, September 2-Sunday, SeptEmber 4
JAZZ WEEKENDER: (Norwich. Details: www.norwichjazzclub.co.uk) A three-day, multi-venue extravaganza featuring James Tormé with The Dunnett/Baxter Big Band, Georgia Mancio Quartet (feat. Alan Broadbent), Liane Carroll Trio, Resolution 88, Grupo Lokito, Enrico Tomasso’s ‘Swing Company’, Ant Law Quintet, Dave O’Higgins, Sirkis / Bialas International Quartet, the Julian Siegel Quartet plus workshops and jam sessions.
FOR THE DIARY
Friday, September 9
JAZZ AT THE MOVIES: (Hunter Club, Bury, 8pm, £12. Details: www.headhunterslive.org) Part of their Kiss Kiss Bang Bang 2016 tour, popular repertory five-piece fronted by acclaimed chanteuse Joanna Eden and featuring Mark Crooks (clarinet/saxophone).
Saturday, September 24
BARFORD STONEMAN QUINTET: (Hunter Club, Bury, 8pm, £12/£6 U25. Details: www.headhunterslive.org) A collective Hard Bop organ quintet comprising the cream of the UK’s young jazz talent including the winner of Young Jazz Musician 2016 Alex Ridout (trumpet) and local sax hero Harry Greene.

JAZZ MATTERS: Weekly preview for the east (August 26-September 2)


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Plans to build an infill house in Bury St Edmunds have been revised in the hope that a change in planning policy will remove the need for any parking provision.
In February, the borough council approved plans to demolish a garage and boundary fence and build a two-storey house – with an on-site parking space – in Albert Street.
But applicant Barney Walker, of John Stebbing Architects, is now seeking approval for a revised design without any off-street parking.
A previous application for the site – now known as Rowan House – was refused in May 2014 and a subsequent appeal dismissed on the grounds the lack of on-site parking provision would cause a highway safety hazard.
But a planning statement accompanying the latest application says much has changed ‘in policy term’s since the first application was refused.
It gives the second edition of the Suffolk Guidance for Parking - Technical Guidance as one example, with ‘new advice added describing how the highways authority will flexibly respond to requests for reductions to residential parking guidance in urban areas’.
It adds: “Policy matters aside, common sense and recent planning decisions might suggest that Bury St Edmunds can accommodate small scale infill development without off-street car parking in a highly sustainable location such as the application site.”
The previously approved scheme met with considerable opposition due to its modern design, which the applicant said was required to accommodate the need for a car.
The revised scheme has a more traditional appearance and Cllr David Nettleton, who was among those to object previously, said he preferred it.
“The design doesn’t offend me this time,” he said, adding that residents would be able to purchase up to two parking permits under the town’s newly extended Zone ‘H’ residents’ parking scheme.
Cllr Andrew Speed, ward member for the borough council and chairman of the town council, said ‘the design was more significant than the parking issue’.
He added that he had arranged a number of meetings over the next month to address the ongoing parking issues in the town and that he hoped to improve the position overall when the new PCSOs start on behalf of the town council in January.

Revised plans for infill house in Bury St Edmunds


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Foodies visiting the Ourburystedmunds Food & Drink Festival this month will be able to relive the spirit of Rio 2016 in a special themed section of the event.
The free two-day festival has been a regular fixture in the town’s summer calendar for the last four years and takes place over the August Bank Holiday Sunday and Monday.
Bury St Edmunds Food and Drink Festival Pictured: Cookery Demonstration by Michelin starred chef Galton Blackiston ANL-150831-183259009
As well as the traditional elements including celebrity chefs, cookery demonstrations a farmers’ market and a host of food and drink stalls, Langton Place will be hosting a taste of Rio to bring a splash of carnival colour to the weekend.
The attraction will include Brazilian music and dancing, and a number of workshops for the young and young-at- heart, including mask-making, dancing and steel drums.
Chief Executive of Ourburystedmunds, which organises the Festival, Mark Cordell said: “Many of us have been enjoying the atmosphere of Rio while watching the Olympic Games on TV and we wanted to recreate that at this year’s Food & Drink Festival.
“There’ll be a chance to try some of the foods of the region and perhaps sip a cocktail while enjoying the free entertainment.”
And while it may not quite be Copacabana, the Ourburystedmunds urban beach will be welcoming sun-seekers to relax with an ice-cream or stick of rock in the arc shopping centre.
He added: “As the festival takes place only a week after the closing ceremony in Rio, we hope to serve up a gold medal event of our own this year.
“All the favourite ingredients from previous years are on the menu and we are delighted to welcome back to Bury St Edmunds Michelin-starred chef Galton Blackiston who will give three demonstrations on Sunday.
“Our celebrity guest on Monday is ITV’s James Tanner who is promising an equally delicious display.”
The Ourburystedmunds Food & Drink Festival will run from Sunday, August 28 to Monday 29th and, as well as the shows in the theatre kitchen, it will feature a wide range of local produce stalls, attractions and children’s entertainment.
For more information visit www.ourburystedmunds.com/foodanddrinkfestival.

The spirit of Rio 2016 comes to annual festival in Bury St Edmunds


It is only to be expected for a bank holiday weekend, but the Met Office has today issued a heavy rain on Saturday and Sunday.
The yellow ‘be aware’ warning is valid from 11am on Saturday to 9am on Sunday for all the eastern and central counties though the Met Office says ‘ there remains a lot of uncertainty in where the heaviest and most prolonged thundery showers will occur’.
The heaviest showers could bring 25mm to 50mm in the worst hit areas.
The warning says: “Thundery showers are likely to move northwards into some southern parts of England during Saturday morning, becoming more widespread and heavy over central UK through the course of Saturday and overnight into Sunday morning.
“Please be aware of the risk of local disruption to transport and outdoor activities. In particular, be aware of the potential for some spray and standing water on roads, and the possibility of road closures.”
The rain is expected to move away east on Sunday morning.
For the latest details visit www.metoffice.gov.uk
For live flood alerts and warnings visit https://flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk
It is the second year running that the east has been subject to heavy rain warnings on August Bank Holiday weekend.

Warning of up to 50mm of bank holiday rain across the east


It is only to be expected for a bank holiday weekend, but the Met Office has today issued a heavy rain on Saturday and Sunday.


The next concert at Ickworth Church will feature the Edmund Octet and takes place at 4pm on Sunday, September 4.
It is the fourth visit to the church by the octet, which is very popular and has a repertoire ranging from Mozart and Palestrina to well known barber shop and light music.
All proceeds from the concert will go to the continued restoration/upkeep of Ickworth Church.
Tickets are £5 per person.
Pay on entry, but emailing john@ickworthchurch.org.uk is advisable in order to control numbers.

Popular octet set for Ickworth Church concert


The next concert at Ickworth Church will feature the Edmund Octet and takes place at 4pm on Sunday, September 4.


The Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds welcomes actor Nigel Havers for an entertaining evening of anecdotes about his life as an actor on stage and screen. Nigel will be joined on the evening by Radio 4 presenter Libby Purves.
Nigel Havers is one of this country’s best loved and most recognisable actors and has worked extensively on the UK stage since the early 1970’s.
He has worked with the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
His Hollywood career includes the classic film Chariots of Fire, working with Steven Spielberg on the epic Empire of The Sun and starring alongside Michael Caine in The Whistle Blower.
The evening’s compere will be theatre critic Libby Purves, herself a hugely respected voice on UK Culture.
She is the creator of the Theatre Cat review website and was the first woman presenter on BBC Radio 4, her connection with Radio 4 continued and she has been a midweek presenter of the radio channel since 1982.
This is a fund-raising event to support the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds (Registered Charity number 242977).
For tickets and further details please call the box office on 01284 769505 or visit www.theatreroyal.org.

An evening with star of stage and screen, Nigel Havers


The Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds welcomes actor Nigel Havers for an entertaining evening of anecdotes about his life as an actor on stage and screen. Nigel will be joined on the evening by Radio 4 presenter Libby Purves.


Mini worlds is the theme for the week in the summer series of family events taking place at St Edmundsbury Cathedral.
Mini worlds is the theme for the week in the summer series of family events taking place at St Edmundsbury Cathedral.
Discover the miniature world of railways with a massive train set provided by Bury Railway Club. Explore and enjoy the mini world of model making and meet the enthusiasts behind these detailed creations at this three day event.
On August 16 you can make a mini cathedral, on the 17th a mini world garden and on the 18th a model train.
There is also a world children’s trail on all three days.
The price includes the whole event and activities on the day and is £5 per child, £3 per attending adult, under 3s free.
These are drop-in events and there is no need to book. They run from 10.30am – noon then 12.30pm to 4pm.
On the 17th there are also a number of mini world themed Lego workshops, starting at 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm, costing £8 per person.
Come on an adventure with ‘Trevor’ the Train Driver and choose which story line to take, let your imagination take hold, be inspired to build the ending to your own adventure with our professional Lego builder.
He will help you turn your ideas into a work of LEGO art plus show you some expert LEGO building tips and skills along the way.
Book at the cathedral office or call 01284 748720.
There is a chance to purchase your creation at the end of the workshop for an additional cost.

Miniature fun at St Edmundsbury Cathedral


Mini worlds is the theme for the week in the summer series of family events taking place at St Edmundsbury Cathedral.


More of Suffolk’s 16 year olds achieved expected levels of GCSE attainment in English and maths this year, it has emerged today.
Provisional results collated in Suffolk suggest a four per cent rise in the number of students getting a C or above in English and maths.
No Caption ABCDE ANL-160825-120454001
Self-reported statistics from Suffolk schools show 63 per cent have achieved the C or above threshold in English and maths this year compared with 59 per cent of these schools achieving this in 2015.
The final validated figure for 2015 was 57 per cent.
Some schools have made significant gains on last year, including Alde Valley Academy in Leiston, which saw a 28 per cent increase to 66 per cent of pupils achieving the threshold for English and maths
Thomas Gainsborough School saw a 17 per cent increase to 73 per cent of pupils achieving the threshold for English and maths.
St Benedict’s Catholic School in Bury St Edmunds saw a 10 per cent increase to 74 per cent in pupils achieving the threshold for English and maths.
The results also saw a significant improvement for disadvantaged pupils – these are children looked after and pupils eligible for free school meals.
The early results reported to Suffolk County Council show 42 per cent of disadvantaged students have achieved a C in English and maths this year.
In 2015 in Suffolk, 33.8 per cent of students achieved a C grade in English and maths and in 2014 it was 29.9 per cent.
Schools with larger numbers of disadvantaged students making significant improvement in the attainment of these pupils again include Thomas Gainsborough School where 54 per cent of disadvantaged pupils achieving the threshold in English and maths.
Claydon High School also saw 54 per cent of disadvantaged pupils achieving the threshold in English and maths, while Farlingaye High School in Woodbridge had 52 per cent of disadvantaged pupils achieving the threshold in English and maths.
Councillor Gordon Jones, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for education and skills, said: “These improved results are a testament to the hard work and commitment shown by students and the dedication, support and encouragement of teachers and parents. They mean that our students are in a strong position to go on to higher education.
Suffolk County Council is committed to establishing and maintaining an education system that allows every pupil or student to reach their full potential.
“We will continue to work with, and challenge, schools to drive up educational attainment. Ofsted has recognised that our Raising the Bar vision and strategy is moving us in the right direction, and we are implementing our action plan to increase the speed of improvement”.
Since the launch of Raising the Bar in 2012, GCSE results have significantly improved and 82 per cent of Suffolk schools are now being judged Good or Outstanding by Ofsted.
Over the last year this percentage nationally has increased by 3 per cent while Suffolk’s has increased by 6 per cent.


More of Suffolk’s 16 year olds achieved expected levels of GCSE attainment in English and maths this year, it has emerged today.


MARSHALL HATCHICK
TWO COUNTIES
CHAMPIONSHIP
DIVISION ONE
Mildenhall 255-7 beat
Frinton-on-Sea II 220-7
by 35 runs
With four matches remaining to play in this season’s campaign, the supposed “Mildenhall Juggernaut” looked more like a low loader as it ground out an unconvincing 35-run win at home against Frinton-on-Sea II on Saturday.
Mildenhall were invited to bat first and Joe Reed and Steve Taylor had reached 88 just before the halfway point, having been largely contained by 10 overs of medium line and length bowling by Frinton’s Tony Stubbs.
Reed was then bowled by Russ Stockdale for 37, with Luke Youngs and Taylor gradually accelerating the score with an 86-run partnership.
Taylor (82) had a let-off on 49 when a double fumble allowed him to avoid being run out, but in the 40th over he was caught by Stubbs off Jack Oakes.
Youngs (48) was the third wicket to go down with the score on 192, before skipper Ben Shepperson departed for 15.
Peter Worthington (28 not out) and Kyle Morrison (19) quickly added 30 in the next three overs as Mildenhall closed on 255-7.
Frinton had reached 121 by the 27th over when Stockdale was caught for 70 by Reed, who finished with three wickets as the visitors closed on 220-7.
n Mildenhall II were eight-wicket winners away at a weakened Exning side, with Jon Allen (3-27), Matt Heywood (3-36) and Steve Graham (66) impressing.
n Mildenhall III secured a four-wicket home win over Elmstead II and a much-changed Mildenhall IV lost to Halstead III by eight wickets.
n Mildenhall Sunday finished the season unbeaten after beating Bury St Edmunds by seven wickets in their final game, while Mildenhall Sunday II finished nine runs short against Edwardstone.
n Mildenhall Ladies won by 45-runs against close table rivals Ipswich Ladies to still be in with a chance of winning the title.

Mildenhall go further clear at the top of Division One


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Nodding off in the middle of the day may be down to pollution generated by traffic, suggests new research.
The study shows exposure to traffic pollution is a trigger for daytime sleepiness - and may also trigger SNORING.
More than 12,000 adults were included in the Respiratory Health in Northern Europe (RHINE) study.
The findings show that people exposed to high levels of pollution had a 65 per cent greater chance of suffering from daytime sleepiness, compared to those who had no exposure.
Traffic noise in the bedroom was also a trigger - with people 46 per cent more likely to feel sleepy in the day if exposed.
And the research also suggests that people are also 29 per cent more likely to be a habitual snorer if they are exposed to traffic noise while they sleep.
Daytime sleepiness affected one in five people involved in the study, while one in four reported habitual snoring.
Ane Johannessen, an epidemiologist at Bergen University in Norway, wrote the study together with Professor Thorarinn Gislason and other Northern European researchers.
She said: “Exposure to traffic should be taken into account when planning treatment for patients with sleep disturbances, because reducing noise and pollution exposure in the bedroom may have a beneficial effect.
“Reducing exposure through relocating the bedroom away from pollution sources or making the bedroom more soundproof to protect against traffic noise, as well as mapping alternative and less polluted outdoor everyday routes may help patients with their sleep disorders.”
The study also showed that men, older subjects, smokers and those with lower education were more likely to report habitual snoring.
They were usually less physically active, with a higher BMI, and more likely to have a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
Women, older people, smokers, and those with lower education were more likely to report daytime sleepiness.
The new research is due to be presented at the European Respiratory Society’s International Congress in London next month.
Professor Jorgen Vestbo, President of ERS and Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Manchester, said: “The question of who snores may be a running joke in some households but for many snoring is a serious issue, with direct links to physical and mental well being and the same is true for daytime sleepiness.
“We want people to think more about the environment around them and the impact it can have - from the way they sleep to the air they breathe.”
To coincide with Congress, the ERS will be holding some free public lung function testing, starting in Trafalgar Square on September 2 and 3.

Sleepiness linked to traffic noise and pollution


Nodding off in the middle of the day may be down to pollution generated by traffic, suggests new research.


A 66.4-mile cycle ride would be a tough challenge for most people but for Paul Clark there is an extra difficulty.
When he takes to the road on September 25, it will be only five months after one of his legs was amputated above the knee.
Paul, from St John’s Close, Mildenhall, came up with the idea of a charity bike ride while recovering from surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
“I had a bike, but I haven’t done anything major for years,” he said. “But I started training in May. A week after my surgery I used the video gym at Addenbrooke’s.
“I thought, if I was going to get back on a bike, I’d do it to raise money.”
He chose the not-for-profit Suffolk Stars cheerleading and gym group, which meets at Mildenhall’s Dome leisure centre, and to which his daughter Ella belongs.
“My wife works, so she couldn’t take Ella but the other mums and dads made sure she was collected while I was in hospital,” he said. “The support I’ve had from family, friends and the mums and dads from the cheerleading group has been outstanding.”
So once he had his artificial leg, he set to training to show his gratitude with the target of raising £5,000 for new equipment for the Stars.
“I was doing a lot better than I thought I would be after the operation, so the consultant last week discharged me,” Paul said.
But that was not before the consultant and his wife backed the ride to the tune of £200. His planned route is to cycle from Mildenhall to Mundford, Downham Market, Ely and back to Mildenhall.
You can sponsor him at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/paul-clark-532

Paul gets on his bike to say a big thank you to Mildenhall cheerleaders


A 66.4-mile cycle ride would be a tough challenge for most people but for Paul Clark there is an extra difficulty.


Sudbury Dramatic Society have had cancel their November Quay Theatre production of Heartbreak House due to unforeseen circumstances.
However, SDS director Belinda Hasler will be directing Gaslight by Patrick Hamilton, originally scheduled for March 2017, from the November 1 to 5 at The Quay.
Belinda is looking for a cast of two men and three women and will be holding Open Auditions for Gaslight at The Quay Theatre on Monday, August 15 at 7.30pm.
Rehearsals will start very soon after the play is cast.
Gaslight is a classic Victorian thriller which was first produced in 1938. Jack Manningham is slowly, deliberately driving his wife, Bella, insane.
Help arrives in the form of a former detective, Rough, who believes Manningham to be a thief and murderer.
Aided by Bella, Rough proves Manningham’s true identity and finally Bella achieves a few moments of sweet revenge.
As well as the main parts there are parts for a flirty Maid with a spring her step who lightens the sombre mood of the play, and the smaller part of the motherly housekeeper worried about her mistress.
Anyone interested is welcome to audition but on being cast will be required to join Sudbury Dramatic Society.
Scripts are available from the Quay Box Office for short term loan along with more details about the audition pieces.

Open auditions for new Sudbury Dramatic Society play


Sudbury Dramatic Society have had cancel their November Quay Theatre production of Heartbreak House due to unforeseen circumstances.


MARSHALL HATCHICK
TWO COUNTIES
CHAMPIONSHIP
DIVISION ONE
Worlington 314-4 lost to
Hadleigh 315-5
by five wickets
Worlington were defeated by a five-wicket margin in a high-scoring affair when they took on relegation-threatened Hadleigh at the weekend.
Batting first, Worlington amassed 314-4 from their 50 overs with centuries from Jimmy Watson (113) and Chris Baugh (108), who shared a third wicket stand of 176 runs.
After tea, Worlington’s opening bowling pair of Sean Cooper (1-16) and Steve Flack (1-38) then kept Hadleigh in check early on, reducing them to 54-2 with a wicket apiece.
Craig Woollard soon followed up, collecting his first wicket of the afternoon when he removed Mark Simmonds for 32.
However, Marlon Dias and Tom Piddington posted a fourth wicket stand of 168 to wrestle back control for the visitors.
Dias eventually fell for 69, and although Woollard (2-56) picked up a second wicket towards the close, Piddington was in fine form, finishing unbeaten on a match-winning score of 153.
Worlington, however, hold onto fourth spot in Marshall Hatchick Two Counties Championship Division One, ahead of a trip to Haverhill this Saturday (1pm).
n In Division Five, Worlington II made the journey to face their Witham counterparts and the title-chasing Essex side were victorious by a nine-wicket margin.
Half-centuries from 16-year-old Matt Wittish (62) and Terry Small (52) helped Worlington post a score of 191-8 from their innings.
Witham passed the total inside 41 overs and for the loss of just one wicket, finishing on 192-1 to claim the win.
n Worlington Academy enjoyed a five-wicket win at home to Battisford and District in Hunts County Bats Suffolk League Division Four on Sunday.
Wittish, Shaun Lister and Jake Goodall all took two wickets each to restrict Battisford to 147-9, before Dan Abbs (49) and Wittish (46) steered Worlington to 149-5 to secure a 10th win in a row.

Worlington lose out at home to Hadleigh in high-scoring clash