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Frank Bruno headlines 'invaluable' Ipswich business networking event attended by 200

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Boxing legend Frank Bruno and broadcaster Alan Brazil were the star guests at a major business networking event in Suffolk that attracted 200 local business owners.

The big picture: The networking event, held at Ufford Park on Thursday, marks another significant milestone for Longfields Circle, a business network spun out of Longfields Insurance earlier this year to facilitate better business collaboration across the region.

Frank Bruno and Alan Brazil
Boxing legend Frank Bruno and broadcaster Alan Brazil were the star guests at Ufford ParkBecky PayneLongfields Circle

Details: The event follows the network's launch event earlier this year which featured a Spitfire flypast.

  • Former heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno was interviewed by sports broadcaster Alan Brazil.

  • The event partnered with Combat2Coffee as its chosen charity, with thousands of pounds were raised for the charity during the evening.

What they're saying: Luke Broadley, founder of the Longfields Circle and owner of Longfields Insurance, said: "This was another tremendous success. Business networking doesn't need to be stale or boring. The Longfields Circle is transforming how businesses in Suffolk and East Anglia connect and collaborate."

Local business owner Ross Cracknell of Evolve Business Solutions praised the approach: "Being part of the Longfields Circle has been invaluable, we've made some great connections and it's all about collaboration and doing things in a new way."

What's next: The Longfields Circle has promised more events for 2025, though details have not yet been announced.

The bottom line: The event demonstrates growing momentum for the new business network, which has now delivered two major events featuring high-profile guests since its launch.

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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