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One for the diary: Suffolk Dog Day returns next month

News

Man's best friend takes centre stage as Suffolk Dog Day returns to Helmingham Hall next month, promising a tail-wagging good time for dogs and their humans.

The big picture: Suffolk Dog Day, a beloved regional event celebrating our canine companions, is set to return on Sunday, 8 September, at Helmingham Hall.

Hosted by St Elizabeth Hospice and sponsored by Gladwells Pet & Country Store and Skinners, the day promises a variety of activities for dogs and their owners.

Lady and her dog participating in Suffolk Dog Day
Suffolk Dog Day 2023St Elizabeth Hospice

Key details:

  • Fun dog classes, agility and scurry activities

  • Over 50 stalls selling dog-related products

  • Crufts-style competitions

  • Children's entertainment

  • Food and drink options available

Why it matters: The event raises crucial funds for St Elizabeth Hospice, which provides specialist palliative care to over 4,000 people annually in Ipswich, East & Mid Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.

What they're saying: "We cannot wait for Suffolk Dog Day to arrive and we are sure it will be an event which will have tails wagging in approval," said James Fox-Golding, Events and Challenges Manager at St Elizabeth Hospice.

He added: "Suffolk Dog Day is such a staple of the Suffolk calendar and it is a fantastic opportunity to join with supporters, and the local community, to celebrate our love for our four-legged friends, while raising funds for our vital services."

The bottom line: Suffolk Dog Day offers a fun day out for dog lovers while supporting an important local charity.

Get involved: Make sure you head to Helmingham Hall on Sunday, 8th September. You can book your tickets here. Early bird discounts are available.

Police reveal Billy McNicholl died from head injuries and a single stab wound in an 'isolated' attack

News

A post-mortem has revealed that William "Billy" McNicholl, 63, died from head injuries and a single stab wound at his Ipswich home. Police continue to appeal for witnesses as the murder investigation enters its second week.

The details: Officers discovered McNicholl's body at his home on Hawthorn Drive shortly before 18:00 on New Years Day:

  • Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team is leading the inquiry

  • A police cordon remains in place near the junction with Marigold Avenue

  • Investigators are particularly interested in any suspicious activity between 24 December and 1 January

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl, 63, died from head injuries and a single stab wound at his Ipswich homeAmy Clarke

What they're saying: Detective Superintendent Mike Brown of the Joint Major Investigations Team said: “We continue to appeal for anyone with any information to come forward while the murder inquiry into the death of Billy continues.

“Billy’s family are being supported by specially trained officers through what is an extremely distressing time for them.

“A large number of officers and staff have already been involved in the investigation, with searches, house-to-house and CCTV enquiries taking place. Residents should expect to see a continued increased police presence over the coming days.

“We are exploring all and any lines of enquiry and currently believe this to be an isolated incident and I would urge anyone with any information, no matter how small you think it may be, to get in touch with police.”

How to help:

  • Contact police on 101 quoting reference 37/162/25

  • Submit information via the Major Incident Public Reporting Portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/363719P01-PO1

  • Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

  • Use Crimestoppers' online form at crimestoppers-uk.org

The bottom line: While police believe this is an isolated incident, they are conducting extensive searches, house-to-house inquiries and CCTV analysis. Residents should expect to see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days.

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