Thanks for splendid support

More than sixty guests attended a hog roast held at Frary Place on Sunday to help raise funds for both Ditchingham Men’s Shed and Bungay Community Library. A total of £890 was raised on the day to be divided between the two causes as part of the Bungay Town Reeve’s Appeal.

A cheque for £2,048 was also presented by the Town Reeve to Ditchingham Men’s Shed which was the money recently raised at the Land of Hope and Glory Proms held at St Mary’s Church on July 1.

Grateful thanks are extended to all those who attended these functions to help raise such a splendid amount.

MARY SPRAKE

Town Reeve

Bungay

Focus is on crossing and fishing

With Parliament now in recess after a hectic few months leading up to and following the June General Election, it is clear that in this coming Parliament there are two issues which will take up much of my time and attention.

These are working with Suffolk County Council to ensure that the Lowestoft Third Crossing is built on time and within budget and liaising with those in the fishing industry locally to make sure that we make the most of the opportunity presented by the inclusion of a Fisheries Bill included in the Queen’s Speech.

Good progress has been made on the Third Crossing following the securing of funding from the Government and Suffolk County Council last year and last week ground investigations got under way, with soil samples being taken away for analysis that will help determine the detailed design of the new bridge, its piers and foundations. The statutory public consultation that is required will commence in September and once the feedback has been assessed the planning application will be submitted to the national Planning Inspectorate next year, when an inquiry known as an Examination in Public may well take place. The objective is to secure planning approval by 2019, so that we can then start on site on a project that is scheduled to take 2 to 3 years.

The Fisheries Bill provides an opportunity to set out new policies for UK fishing for the first time for 40 years. It is important that this sets down a framework in which the Lowestoft industry can be revitalised. This will involve putting in place a management system that is overseen by local people, including fishermen and the scientists from CEFAS that ensures our local fisheries are managed sustainably for the long term. There is a pressing need to reform the current quota system to ensure that local fishermen have enough fish to catch and are able to make a reasonable living. Moreover it is important that supporting businesses such as boat repairers, equipment providers, processors and merchants are in a position to take advantage of the improved prospects for the industry. For my part, whilst recognising that many challenges lie ahead, I look forward to working with local people and businesses to make sure that we make the most of these two opportunities, that they bring the maximum benefit to Lowestoft

PETER ALDOUS

Waveney MP

Brave response to tragic fire

During the tragic house fire last Tuesday morning I observed the very best of humanity, from the bravery of neighbours entering the house to help the occupants, to the incredible efforts and determination of all the emergency services who arrived and showed exemplary professionalism, teamwork, bravery, compassion and care.

My thoughts and prayers go to the family.

DONNA SMITH

Emai

School reunion plea

I am looking to find old school pals who went to Bungay Middle and then Bungay High, finishing in 1974/5.

I am also looking to find anyone who has kept in contact with any other of the borders from Dunelm.I am just looking to find maybe a few people to touch base with before the years totally get away from me.

I can be contacted via Facebook.

SIMON CRAWFORD

Facebook