As we begin 2021 the councillors would like to express their appreciation and thank the residents and businesses in Surlingham who have gone above and beyond in the last year to support the community, and now we are in lockdown again will continue to offer support where it is needed.

Clive Evans and Sarah Broom recruited and organised the band of volunteers who collected prescriptions and shopping for those who were shielding or less able and not forgetting a big thank you to the volunteers themselves who gave up their time to do so.

Paul and Louise Swift organised a virtual quiz via Zoom. Clive and Sarah organised the ‘Stay at Home street Party to Commemorate the 75^th anniversary of VE Day’ which was supported by many residents who put up decorations, dressed in clothing typical of the era and held tea parties in their gardens.

Thanks, must also go to the Ferry House, Yare Valley Farm Shop and Teles Patisserie all have played a part either providing take away meals, increasing their stock of the essentials, providing a delivery service, and generally helping wherever and whenever they could.

Last but by no means least thank you to the Reverends Nick and Helen Garrard who have enabled parishioners to take part in services either via Zoom or video recordings. In May Nick also started a regular weekly virtual Art Café to give residents with an interest in art the opportunity to discuss and learn more about the subject.

This list is not exhaustive, to the many residents who have and will continue to support their neighbours during these worrying times – Thank You

Please note during this current period of lock down the Ferry House will remain closed. Sonia will reopen as soon as she is permitted, and the safety of staff and customers can be assured.