Features
In-depth stories that explore the people, places, and issues that shape Ipswich. From local history and community profiles to investigative pieces and human interest stories that go beyond the headlines.
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Suffolk firms put big decisions on ice as Budget divides confidence
Five days after Rachel Reeves delivered her £26 billion tax-raising Budget, Suffolk businesses remain divided on whether the Chancellor has provided the certainty they need – with most major investment decisions deferred until 2026 as firms weigh painful clarity against missing reforms.by
Matt Stott
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Regent Theatre transformation provides perfect launchpad for town's City of Culture bid
As Ipswich Town chairman Mark Ashton urged the town to "celebrate all the amazing things happening" at Friday's City of Culture launch, the Regent Theatre provided the perfect evidence. The £3.45 million transformation of this 96-year-old landmark proves Ipswich is serious about culture – and ready to show the rest of the UK what it's been missing.by
Oliver Rouane-Williams
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From Portman Road to precious memories: An Ipswich love story
Charlie and Wendy Clarke's romance began at a football match in 1972 and lasted over 50 years, surviving promotions, cup finals, and ultimately Wendy's terminal illness – with St Elizabeth Hospice ensuring their final months together were filled with dignity, love, and even a visit from Ipswich Town players.byOliver Rouane-Williams
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'Talk this town up' – Football boss's passionate plea for Ipswich City of Culture bid
Ipswich Town FC chairman Mark Ashton doesn't do half measures, and his speech launching Ipswich's City of Culture bid made that crystal clear – the club's leader wants everyone to stop undermining the town and start celebrating what makes it special as it gears up for its 2029 City of Culture bid.byOliver Rouane-Williams
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St George's flag: A symbol of pride or division in Ipswich?
When we asked 185 Ipswich residents how the rise of St George's flags made them feel, three-quarters said it represented national pride. But for others, the responses revealed something more troubling, writes student journalist, Kaelyn D’rozario.Feature
The pub landlord turned therapist challenging beauty industry exploitation
For 15 years, Donna-Marie Wishart ran some of London's toughest pubs and clubs. Then she worked with young offenders and people struggling with addiction. Now she has found her calling in a treatment room in Sproughton, proving that self-care does not have to come with a luxury price tag.byMatt Stott
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Ipswich's youngest councillor on why his generation ignores local politics
Young people are passionate about national politics. Yet most cannot name their local councillor, let alone tell you what they do. Nathan Wilson is the exception. Elected to Ipswich Borough Council aged just 18, he has spent four years learning why his peers stay away.Feature
Budget 2025: Who wins and who loses in Ipswich
From frozen tax thresholds to scrapped benefit caps, the chancellor's latest Budget will reshape the finances of thousands of Ipswich households and businesses. We break down exactly who benefits and who pays the price.byOliver Rouane-WilliamsandMatt Stott
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Does volunteering actually work for young people?
Volunteering is booming in Ipswich, with organisations like Volunteering Matters pushing it into the spotlight. The question is: does it work? Can giving your time for free really help you navigate an increasingly brutal job market?Feature
From £29-a-week bricklayer to £10 million: The family firm that grew with Ipswich
Local building contractor GBS began with residential maintenance, then a flour mill breakthrough, and now spans three specialist divisions. But its story is also one baked in family, trust and a changing industry in a town navigating its own transformation.byMatt Stott
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Isolation, ideology and influence: How incel culture shapes young minds
At 13, Lucas thought he was just looking at funny memes. By 14, he believed women were the enemy and rejection was his destiny. His journey into incel culture didn't start with a choice – it started with an algorithm.Feature
One in seven billion: The toddler with a genetic mutation nobody has seen before
Oli-Jay's genetic test results revealed something doctors had never encountered – a DNM1L gene mutation so rare that he is the only person in the world with this exact variant. Now his family is racing to fund specialist research that could unlock answers for their son and others who may follow.byOliver Rouane-Williams
