Here's what we talked about - March 2020

The ABA's first tour of a distillery attracted over 30 members who enjoyed a tour of the new Fisher's Gin distillery and a delicious breakfast at The Brudenell next door.

The sun shone through the huge glass windows of the tasting room and gave us a wonderful view of the beach and the sea as we heard from founder Andrew Heald and Commercial Director Christian Hamilton. The distillery is due to open in April and will offer tours, sampling and food tastings to visitors - adding to the mix of attractions in the town.

ABA news

Before we headed for a truly delicious 3 course Brudenell breakfast, members heard about the new ABA Instagram account and about the survey we are planning in order to find out what members want from us. In the meantime, do keep an eye on these newsletters so that we can keep you up to date with new developments.

Ella from The Red House talked about their work with Suffolk Archives on discovering links between Aldeburgh High Street and the shopping habits of Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears. Fascinating stories have started to emerge which may lead to ‘blue plaques’ on shop windows.

Lucy Smith made everyone aware of this year's 75th anniversary of VE Day on Friday 8 May. Aldeburgh will be celebrating this important anniversary with events in the town but the council would love to see some themed decorations in the main streets - possibly a Union Jack in windows or bunting across the front of premises.

Sally shared the results of the District Council's People and Places Survey which sought the views of business owners on what would help them most with their business. The answer from Aldeburgh was a resounding call for parking enforcement as limited places are putting off visitors to the town. You can see the survey in full here.

Next breakfast

Lots of networking went on and will continue at the next breakfast, which is also the AGM. Put Wednesday 6th May in your diary and prepare for some exciting news about the ABA committee!

Until then, we wish for good weather and a busy spring season,

Sally Odgen (Chair)

Ella Robert (Vice Chair)

Gary Thompson (Treasurer)

Sarah Whitelock (Secretary)