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Ipswich construction firm donates £44,000 to 26 local charities in 2024

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Barnes Construction has donated an incredible £44,291 to charities across East Anglia in 2024, with staff fundraising contributing £10,000 to support causes ranging from homeless shelters to wildlife trusts.

Why it matters: The donations represent a significant commitment to supporting local charitable organisations at a time when many are facing increased demand for their services.

The big picture: The Ipswich-based construction firm has distributed funds to 26 different organisations, including:

The team at Barnes Construction outside their offices in Ipswich
The team at Barnes Construction outside their offices in IpswichSky Revolutions

Staff involvement: Employees raised £10,000 through various events including:

  • The annual 'Not Fayers Golf Day' at Rushmere Golf Club, raising £6,000 for Amend

  • A Santa float collection in Broke Hall, gathering £1,226 for Genesis Orwell Mencap

  • Participation in events like the 'Whole Hog Muddy Run' and 'Wear it Pink Day'

Joint managing directors Mark Hart and Bob Steward said: "A huge thank you and well done to everyone who took part and helped us in being able to donate this amount of money to these amazing charities and good causes."

Recent initiatives: The company's latest fundraising efforts included:

  • Staff volunteering with Ipswich Greyfriars Round Table's Santa float

  • A Christmas Jumper Day raising £210 for Save the Children UK

The bottom line: Barnes Construction's charitable giving spans multiple sectors, from healthcare to environmental conservation, with a particular focus on supporting organisations working within their local community.

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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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