Dear Ipswich, I hope you are well.
I’m not a frequent writer of love letters but I feel you’ve had a lot of bad press recently and that it’s worth telling people that if only they would take the time to get to know you better they would have a more positive view. I have lived in Ipswich and brought up children here over the last 30 years so it must be love!
I just urge local residents to come into town and see what there is to be positive about your local film theatre, the small, independent shops, cafes to suit all tastes, The New Wolsey Theatre, music venues galore and food shops selling unusual items from other cultures.
After all you are situated in a great spot, surrounded by hills with rail links in all directions, a lovely river running through and so many wonderful trees and parks.
It’s so easy to get around without a car; half an hour to almost anywhere within the town on a bike and a pretty good local bus service.
Although the shopping centre isn’t looking it’s best at the moment I just urge local residents to come into town and see what there is to be positive about; your local film theatre, the small, independent shops, cafes to suit all tastes, The New Wolsey Theatre, music venues galore and food shops selling unusual items from other cultures. Not to mention the wonderful library. If residents spent more time (and money) on you it would make a positive difference to benefit everyone.
Finally, you’re a good fun town with several major music events each year and smaller concerts if you know where to look (some of the renovated churches). There are many societies to join, sports centres to use and wonderful countryside to explore on the edges of the town.
I would have said that it’s drier here than many places in the UK but I’m not sure, after this year if that really true anymore!!
So, there you are, a glowing report. No town is perfect but rather than grumble about you we should all look out for and support your many good points.
Lucy Williams
