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Ipswich Town legend opens up about hearing loss

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Ipswich Town FC legend Russell Osman has shared how overcoming his pride about wearing hearing aids has transformed his life. The former defender says he wishes he'd sought help years earlier.

The big picture: Osman, 64, has been named as the first 'Hearing Ambassador' for Ipswich-based All About Hearing, after finally addressing his own hearing loss and tinnitus.

The former defender admits he delayed seeking help, saying: "I thought, I'm only 64, I don't need hearing aids! I suppose it was vanity at the end of the day, thinking I can hear most things, so I'll just keep plodding on."

He now recognises the impact of waiting: "It's probably a good job I went to see Karen when I did, but it would have been even better if I'd have gone 5 years ago, even 10 years ago."

Russell Osman having his ears checked by All About Hearing audiologist and co-director, Karen Finch
Russell Osman having his ears checked by All About Hearing audiologist and co-director, Karen FinchAll About Hearing

Why it matters: Around 125,000 people in Suffolk are affected by hearing loss, according to All About Hearing, but many never seek professional help.

The impact: Osman says getting hearing aids has dramatically improved his quality of life: "I can now hear conversations more clearly, enjoy music and TV again, and even confidently participate in social activities, such as my beloved golf."

What's next: As Hearing Ambassador, Osman will work with All About Hearing to raise awareness about hearing health and challenge the stigma associated with hearing loss.

The bottom line: Through sharing his story, the Ipswich Town legend hopes others will learn from his experience and seek help sooner. "I was hesitant to seek help for my hearing loss and tinnitus, but I'm so glad I did," says Osman.

All About Hearing | Hearing Ambassador | Former Ipswich Town & England Defender, Russell Osman
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Double victory for St Joseph's as young debaters shine

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St Joseph's College students demonstrated exceptional public speaking prowess, claiming victory in both intermediate and senior categories at a prestigious local debate competition.

Why it matters: The double win at the Ipswich East Rotary Club 'Youth Speaks' competition secures both teams places in the Norwich debating chamber finals next month, showcasing local talent on a regional stage.

The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevant
The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevantSt Joseph's College

The details:

  • The college hosted the competition on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.

  • The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human society.

  • The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevant.

What they're saying: "Working with these students and developing their oracy and public speaking skills through debating is such a joy!" said Dr Briege Rice, Stretch and Challenge Coordinator and History and Politics teacher at St Joseph's College.

"These skills are vital in every field, fostering confidence, clear communication and critical thinking. The standard of debating was very high, and we are very proud of this extraordinary achievement of our students," she added.

The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human society
The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human societySt Joseph's College

The bottom line: The competition, supported by the Rotary Club, continues to foster key communication skills amongst young people through its Youth Speaks initiative, with St Joseph's teams now preparing to showcase their talents in February's finals.

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

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