The Clerk, Diane Linsley, started her time with Martlesham Council as Deputy Clerk in June 2013. As her background was in countryside management a natural fit was for her to support the work of the Recreation and Amenities Committee whose work includes the management of the parish council’s sites including Martlesham Common which was designated a Local Nature Reserve. Since September 2021 she has been Clerk and seen the Council through a period of change with long standing staff retiring and new councillors joining the council. “The future of Martlesham Council is an exciting one with additional councillors coming onboard and a new team to help support their work. I wish them all the very best with their continuing work on providing services for those that live and work in Martlesham, supporting local groups and looking after the environment.

Never a dull moment, it’s been rewarding to work for a proactive Council like Martlesham Council!” Diane Linsley, Clerk.

Councillors and staff wish Diane a long and happy retirement. We will miss her good humour, empathy with others, fairness and support for all her colleagues.

A reminder that the Parish Council will be considering all applications for grants from local organisations in the autumn. If your group wishes to apply for a grant, please use the following email enquiries@martleshamcouncil.org.uk to request an application form. All application forms to be completed and returned to the Parish Council by Monday 07 October 2024. These grants are awarded for the financial year 2025/26 and will be presented at the 2025 Annual Parish Meeting. Last year’s recipients included Martlesham in Bloom, Martlesham Brass, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Martlesham Conservation Group and Martlesham Heath Aviation Society.

This willow tree with its contorted branches can be seen on Martlesham Green nearest Birch Woods and was planted by Martlesham Heath Householders Limited (MHHL) in the autumn of 2022. The roots spread seeking and sucking up water an help reduce the moisture in this waterlogged area often impassible in the winter and early spring.

Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’ has a sinister past. Often found near watercourses and edges of village greens in the times of the ‘Witchfinder General’ any woman who was found to be a ‘witch’ could be seen hanging from these trees. Also, in English folklore, this willow tree was believed to be capable of uprooting itself and stalking travellers! Thank you to Lisa Calver for bringing this fascinating tree to our attention.

Parish Council meeting – Wednesday 4th September

Recreation & Amenities Committee meeting – Wednesday 11th September

For more information e-mail: enquiries@martleshamcouncil.org.uk website: www.martleshamparishcouncil.org.uk Please “Follow Us” on our Facebook page which is @Martlesham Parish. The full address is https://www. facebook.com/MartleshamParish