Essential Suffolk April 2014

April 2014 | Priceless

Essential

FEATHERED FRIENDS Choosing chickens to keep at home

Theatre | Food | Fashion | Homes & Interiors | Elite Properties

www.essentialsuffolk.com

CELEBRATING ALL THAT MAKES OUR COUNTY GREAT

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Woodhall Manor There could be no more romantic choice for your dream wedding venue than Woodhall Manor. Set in nine acres of landscaped grounds situated close to the Suffolk Heritage Coast, Woodhall is a beautiful Elizabethan manor house dating from 1566. We offer a choice of majestic walled gardens, grand dining rooms and an impressive banqueting hall as the setting; a Woodhall Manor wedding is all about exclusivity, choice and enchantment, arranged especially for you. Our Banqueting Hall seats up

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APRIL 2014

Lesley Rawlinson Director lesley@achievemoremedia.co.uk T: 01473 809932 M: 07519 477583

| Welcome

WELCOME

Adrian Rawlinson Director adrian@achievemoremedia.co.uk T: 01473 809932 M: 07718 149307

For many reasons the festival of Easter has to be one of the most joyful times of the year. The days are longer and the evenings lighter, the countryside is positively bursting with colour and spring abundance and of course there’s chocolate! So with all things Easter in mind we’ve taken a look at some great ideas for Easter Days Out as well as our usual What’s On listings so there’s plenty of inspiration if you’re looking for something to do.

Alison Watson Account Manager alison@achievemoremedia.co.uk T: 01473 809932 M: 07546 485204

Still on an Easter related theme we look at keeping chickens. Of course some might say that having multi-coloured hens peacefully pecking about in the yard is the ultimate country garden accessory but these days it’s more than that – increasing numbers of people are keeping poultry for eggs. The popularity of rescuing battery hens means that there’s even a waiting list and veterinary nurse Lesley Austin is running a weekly chicken clinic.

Anne Gould Editor editor@achievemoremedia.co.uk M: 07411 701010

Paul Newman Designer paul@alanbrannandesign.co.uk Cover story: Brooding About Chickens? page 8

This month we’ve also talked to an artist whose innovative work started in Suffolk but is about to take on the world. Eileen Haring Woods ‘Unique in the Universe’ looks at the way we see the world through our eyes and has created a film of Aldeburgh notables which has been screened against the Beach Lookout Tower. Headed up by actor Diana Quick it’s now about to take on a new incarnation in Ipswich, London, New York and Los Angeles.

So here’s something where you can say, “I saw it in Suffolk first.”

On the charity front we’ve looked at another Suffolk initiative that is going to have a life beyond the county boundaries – the Town Pastors. Running in towns across the county at weekends, helping those who’ve partied rather too enthusiastically, the scheme has for the last three years had a presence at Latitude. Now organisers have been asked to take their show on the road – to the Leeds and Reading Festivals, The Isle of Wight, Bestival and V. As always our pages are packed full with your favourites from fashion to food, property for sale, gardening and interiors ideas and in this issue there’s also an Essential guide to planning your wedding.

Have a great Easter break and to keep up to date with what’s going on in your county don’t forget to follow us on Twitter @EssentialSFK.

See all our Social photos at essentialsuffolk.com Follow us on twitter @EssentialSFK

Anne Gould Anne Gould Editor editor@achievemoremedia.co.uk

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Copyright on all content is with Achieve More Media Limited.

Reproduction in part or whole if forbidden without the express permission of the publishers. All prices, events and times were to the best of our knowledge correct at the time of going to press and you are encouraged to contact the venue prior to booking.

All expressions and opinions within the publication are those of the editor including contributors. Essential Suffolk is a trading name of Achieve More Media Limited.

Essential SUFFOLK is Suffolk’s most exclusive magazine delivered only to individually selected homes, businesses and venues. It is brought to you each month with the valued support of our commercial partners. Please let them know you saw them here.

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1. Visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/essential-shop 2. Send a cheque for £24 (for 12 issues) or £2.95 (for a single issue) to Achieve More Media Ltd, 21 Terry Gardens, Kesgrave, Suffolk IP5 2EP Prices include postage and packaging.

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EssentialSUFFOLK

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Contents

24

26

42

52

FEATURES

REGULARS

08

13 14

Suffolk in Brief

21

Mini Previews

Choosing chickens Veterinary nurse Lesley Austin gives advice on keeping chickens

24

Easter Days Out

26

Unique in the Universe

Making the most of the Easter holiday

Installation art from Aldeburgh goes global

28

Town Pastors

42

Weddings

From the streets of Ipswich to the Isle of Wight

The ultimate guide to getting your garden in shape for the Big Day

PEOPLE

98

32

My Suffolk Bill Baker, Honourary Director of the Suffolk Show

64

52

Food and Drink

64 72

Homes & Interiors

76

Antiques & Auctions

77

Property

89 91

Motoring

News from around the county

What’s On Where to go and what to see in Suffolk this April

Jesus Christ Superstar, Alde Valley Spring Festival, High Tide Festival at Halesworth, Storm of Stories, Avant Garde Dance at Jerwood Dance House and Translations at the New Wolsey

32

Fashion

47 50

Finance

New looks for the new season

Are ISAs worth it?

Pub Dog Walk A great new route from the Greyhound at Petistree

Dining at the Tuddenham Fountain, Sea Bass recipe from The Anchor at Walberswick, wine advice from Adnams’ Rob Chase plus the Food Gallery

Curtain and blind solutions

Gardening Take to the water with a swimming pond

Looking at the rules on the international trade in endangered species

A selection of our county’s finest homes for sale

The new Subaru Outback

Essential Faces Highlights from Suffolk’s social calendar

EssentialSUFFOLK

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APRIL 2014

Increasing numbers of people in the UK are keeping chickens in their gardens – not just for amazing fresh eggs but as pets too. Anne Gould finds out more

BROODING ABOUT CHICKENS? V

eterinary nurse Lesley Austin has 22 hens living at her home in Needham Market. “My girls,” as she refers to them are plainly part of the family. They are all shapes and sizes, some are pedigree and others are rescue chickens but they all have their own character. She says some of them even know their names and will come when she calls, others – well those who spent their early lives as battery chickens – are particularly affectionate. “They’ll peck my trousers and really pull because they want to be picked up for a cuddle,” she explained.

Of course there was a time when every home in the countryside would have hens running in the yard and it looks as if those days might be returning. Lesley says there’s been a huge boom in the numbers of people keeping poultry with the result that she’s runs special “chicken clinics” in Ipswich – at the Smyth Ryder Davies veterinary clinic in Woodbridge Road. “People want to keep them for many reasons, including their eggs, but they are also great pets as well.”

However it’s crucial that people know how to look after them and not just to keep pests, parasites and illnesses at bay, but providing the right hen house and protection to avoid a visit from Mr Fox!

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Keeping chickens

KEEPING SAFE FROM FOXES

As any chicken keeper will know, along with the contentment of ownership comes the ongoing task of ensuring they are locked away safely at night and let out in the morning. Foxes, be they urban or their country cousins, have an uncanny knack of discovering any new brood and treating it as their personal takeaway. Local businessman and electrical engineer, John Barry, faced with losses of his chickens over the years, and unhappy with the reliability of some options currently on the market, has designed and built a robust solution to the issue with his ‘Cluck and Shut’ devise.

The ‘Cluck and Shut’ is a simple electronic/mechanical unit that allows peace of mind when locking in or letting out the chickens. It has a facility to add time increments to the daylight/dusk setting so the chicken door will open for example at daylight + one hour or whatever. Likewise at dusk it ensures the hens are in before it closes the door.

Setting is as simple as pressing the set button for the right time. It also comes with the options of an integral sensor or a remote sensor. Units range from £109 – £125.

Enquiries should be emailed to cluckandshut@deckworld.co.uk

Apparently if you keep them in a chicken run you need to dig the protective wire mesh deep into the ground – there’s a reason why foxes have a reputation for being wily – and the hen house needs to be secure with all your birds safely tucked up and locked away at night, although most will take themselves off to bed when it gets dark.

Suffolk has its own breed too – the Ixworth – produced by Reginald Appleyard which made its first appearance in 1939. It’s all white, is a quickly maturing table breed which produces eggs as well but unfortunately today it’s a rare breed; between 1950-70 it nearly died out completely. Lesley says that if you go for a specific breed people should expect to pay £20-35 each but if

you take a rescue chicken all you need do is make a donation of £2 a bird.

They are really not expensive to keep either – around 20p a day for good hen feed and some corn for them to peck on in the afternoon. If you want really golden yellow yolks for your Easter breakfast here’s a tip - make sure you feed your chickens something green like cabbage. Apparently they love it. ‰

It’s best, she says, to have more than two hens because they like company but contrary to popular belief, it’s not necessary to have a cockerel to have a regular supply of fresh eggs and of course in a built up area it’s not necessarily neighbourly either. Also you need to have enough space – aim for about a square metre for every chicken and if you are a keen gardener you’ll need to keep them fenced in as well.

Lesley warned though, that not everyone can keep chickens in the garden – there are some properties, particularly new ones, which forbid keeping poultry in the deeds. If you do decide to go ahead you might well face a bewildering choice as these days there’s an incredible range of amazing ‘designer’ hen houses to choose from. “There are also over 200 different breeds of chickens as well, some are better at laying eggs and others are good for the table and some are really decorative too.”

EssentialSUFFOLK

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DINING

LIVING

BEDROOM

B AT H R O O M

GARDEN

KITCHEN

Keeping chickens

Lesley’s passion for chickens though extends into charity work too – she’s the Suffolk representative of the British Hen Welfare Trust, which rescues and rehomes battery chickens. “It’s really popular and we’ve got a long waiting list. In April we have 300 hens that are going to be rehomed from a local farm but we are always looking for more.”

The Trust’s headquarters in Devon, Hen

Central, build a careful relationship with the farmers, she explained, which allows them to go and pick up the animals early in the morning. “We take them by lorry to Baylam Rare Breeds Farm which is where their new owners pick them up.

It’s amazing when you take them from the boxes they just stand there not knowing what to do. They have never put their feet on the ground before because they have been on crates and they may never have flapped their wings but then after a little while instinct kicks in and they start moving about and stretching, it’s really moving and will bring a tear to your eye. It’s beautiful.”

Be aware as well some of these rescue chickens arrive bald and featherless so in winter they might need some sort of extra protection but within two months they will have grown robust plummage –

that’s most often rusty brown in colour.

Rescue hens usually live happily and continue to produce eggs usually for a year to 18 months, although some don’t survive the transition at all. If they do they’ll often be very affectionate, says Lesley, so be prepared to pick them up for a cuddle. If you’re not sure how to do this lessons are provided at the chicken clinic!

What about other pets? Well chickens normally fit in well with other animals – Lesley says her “girls” saw off a neighbour’s cat so effectively a few years back that it’s never ventured over the fence since. But, be warned you do need to be careful with some dogs.

INFORMATION www.bhwt.org.uk

MADE IN SUFFOLK

Cluck Cluck!

Suffolk-born artist Victoria Hall has been drawing chickens all her life. They’ve charmed family and friends and have been given as hand-drawn cards and gifts for many years.

“As a child I lived on a farm in Little Waldingfield which had a number of hens, geese and fine cockerels and I’d often sketch them” she explained. But, it wasn’t until she returned to Suffolk from London with her husband and young family four years ago that Cluck Cluck! was born.

Working in the attic studio of her Offton home she started with quality hand-coloured prints and cards but now she’s diversified and is doing mugs, tea towels and oven gloves.

What makes these very special is that Victoira has gone to great lengths to ensure that all her products are sourced and or printed in Suffolk. They are being sold right across the county but further afield too in Lincolnshire, North Yorkshire and Scotland.

Victoria also has a career for fine art with national and international reputations but Cluck Cluck! has taken up much of her time recently. With six chickens in the back garden it’s not difficult for her to find inspiration for her drawings. “I photograph and sketch the chickens outside from life but then return to the studio and draw the image in black Indian ink straight on to the paper.” Feathers are then delicately added to the drawings, giving a sense of texture and a little colour to the image. These feathers are carefully sourced using colours that compliment contemporary interiors schemes.

INFORMATION cluckcluck.biz Suffolk stockists of Cluck Cluck! Include: For All Seasons, Jimmy's Farm, Wherstead. Loveone, Ipswich. The Crockery Barn, Ashboking. Helmingham Hall, Helmingham

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May 28 and 29

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essentialsuffolk.com

News

SUFFOLK in brief People. The scheme has been called Young Theatre Makers. These three major regional theatres are working in partnership to create a number of new productions using young theatre makers who are participating in their Creative Learning programmes and will become the writers, devisors, actors and producers of four pieces of new work.

The sweet-toothed population of Suffolk gathered recently to help raise money for a local, charitable appeal launched by Suffolk Family Carers. Hearing care specialists, The Hearing Care Centre, decided to put their fundraising experience together with the dessert making skills of the culinary students at New Suffolk College. On the night guests packed into Shelley’s Restaurant and tucked into a delicious main course, followed by a huge array of delicious homemade puddings, with an ‘all you can eat policy’. Desserts included everything from the classic sticky toffee pudding and chocolate brownies, through to beetroot pie and lime posset. The Pudding Club event raised over £740 for the charity.

See www.essentialsuffolk.com/latest-news for photographs of this event.

Excitement over the appointment of a new president the Countess of Euston, who is only the fifth female president of the Suffolk Agricultural Association in 184 years, and news of forthcoming additions to the 2014 Suffolk Show filled the air at Trinity Park at the recent Suffolk Agricultural Association AGM. Association chairman Robert Rous gave a vote of thanks to former chairman Stephen Fletcher; Lord Deben praised outgoing president Stephen Cobbald for his remarkable “commitment and passion and representing agriculture at its best.” President elect Terry Hunt spoke of his historic Suffolk farming connections and Bill Baker thanked outgoing Show director David Nunn for his three years before outlining new features including the Farm Discovery Zone for the county Show on May 28 and 29. See www.essentialsuffolk.com/social-pages for photographs of this event.

The New Wolsey Theatre, along with the Birmingham REP and Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, has been successful in their bid for funding from Arts Council England’s Strategic Touring Programme to create and tour Theatre for Young People by Young

A talented hockey player from Suffolk has been selected on to a programme which will see her benefit from attending national training camps and working with expert coaches. Lorna Bennell, aged 16 and a student at Woodbridge School has been selected for the Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (AASE) programme which is part of the new National Age Group Squad Academy run by England Hockey. Adam Lubbock, head of sport at Woodbridge School, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Lorna to really benefit from the expertise of the coaches leading this programme.”

Southwold and Suffolk fashion favourites – Collen & Clare – have opened a new shop on the High Street in Aldeburgh joining other leading local independent fashion retailers such as O&C Butcher, Caramel and Fleur. Vanessa Hodgson (nee Collen) hosted the launch evening and thanked everyone for the warm welcome that Aldeburgh has given them. Collen & Clare were established in 2002 and were tipped by the Sunday Telegraph's Stella magazine as one of the ‘Top 50 boutiques in Britain'. See www.essentialsuffolk.com/socialpages for photographs of this event.

Suffolk communications design agency Spring has created the brand identity for Arctic Gurkha, the 2015 expedition in aid of Help for Heroes and the Gurkha Welfare Trust. Expedition Arctic Gurkha will see Gurkha officer Jon Armstrong lead three other Gurkhas around Ellesmere Island by kayak, in a target time of a hundred days.

To put this into perspective, the total area of the Island is three quarters that of Great Britain – so it’s a considerable feat. This is a world record breaking attempt will take place between May and August 2015, giving the team fifteen months to prepare. Cofounder Erika Clegg says: “Spring is proud to support this bold mission in support of a very good cause, and looks forward to continued input over the next year or so.”

The CLA has drawn up a floods action plan setting out what needs to be done to combat the threat of future flooding.

The publication of the manifesto marks three months since the tidal surge that hit the east coast in December, leaving many members counting the cost of flooding on their land. It also follows a recent meeting between CLA President Henry Robinson and Environment Agency (EA) Chairman Lord Smith and Chief Executive Paul Leinster. “The CLA has had full and frank discussions with EA about the crisis, making our members’ concerns abundantly clear,” said CLA Eastern Regional Director Nicola Currie “The Government must make it easier for landowners to maintain those defences the EA can no longer look after.”

The East Anglian Sailing Trust (EAST) based at Levington Marina are collaborating with East Suffolk Association for the Blind (ESAB) with an at event to help ESAB celebrate its centenary. The project called “Three Men in a Boat” will involve three yachts each with a visually impaired person on board sailing up from Levington to Lowestoft on Sunday 27th April. A day will be spent in Lowestoft giving up to 16 local visually impaired people a chance to go out to sea for a sailing experience and that will be followed by a celebration event in the evening at Lowestoft. On Tuesday 29th April, the three yachts with three or more visually impaired people on board will sail down to Southwold where they will be stopping over for one night before returning to Levington on the 30th. For more detail of the event visit www.east-anglian-sailing-trust.org.uk/

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APRIL 2014

WHAT’S ON MARCH 28 – APRIL 6 Wonderful Beast – Storm of Stories 2014 Various venues across Leiston, Aldeburgh, Framlingham See mini preview p21 www.wonderfulbeast.co.uk

In Port of Spain, Trinidad, troops are celebrating returning home from war. Here, neighbours drink, brawl, look out for each other and crave a better life. But Ephraim is no dreamer and nothing, not even the seductive Rosa, is going to stop him escaping hid dead-end job for a fresh start in England.

Tickets: £10 – £25 Box office: 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Romeo and Juliet The Cut, Halesworth, 7.30pm The vibrant Yakety Yak Young Actors Company performs this Elizabethan tragedy with all the gusto of youth in an imaginative and exciting adaptation.

Box office: 0845 673 2123 | newcut.org

APRIL 5

APRIL 1 The Magic of Minsmere – weekday walks RSPB Minsmere, near Dunwich From booming bitterns, warbling warblers to the delight of the nightingale’s song, the guides will take you on a sound tour you won’t forget.

Contact: 01728 648 281 www.rspb.org.uk

APRIL 1 – 5 Miss Nightingale The Musical New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 7.45pm After taking the UK and the West End by storm in 2013 Miss Nightingale - the musical, comes home to roost. Peter Rowe's nationally acclaimed production of the hit show is back by popular demand and it's now funnier, more moving and has some amazing new songs and costumes.

Box office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

APRIL 1 – 12 Moon on a Rainbow Shawl Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 7.30pm

APRIL 1 – 17 Two Talented Ladies Sea Pictures Gallery, Well House, Well Lane, Clare, CO10 8NH Daily except Tues & Wed A new exhibition of quilts and machine embroidery by Michelle Holmes and contemporary paintings by Carol Saunderson.

Entry price: Free Contact: 01787 279024 sarah.alaric@seapicturesgallery.com www.seapicturesgallery.com

APRIL 3 Russell Watson in Concert Ipswich Regent, 7pm The UK’s best-selling classical artist Russell Watson with his ‘Only One Man’ tour.

It features brand new songs, written specially for Russell by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com The Marriage of Figaro The New Wolsey, Ipswich, 7.45pm Beautifully staged in English with elegant 18th century costumes, and performed by some of the finest singers and orchestral players in the country, Figaro will give you an enchanting and hilarious evening’s entertainment.

Box office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

APRIL 4 Avant Garde Dance – The Black Album Jerwood Dance House, Ipswich, 7.30pm See mini preview p21 www.danceeast.co.uk

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Easter Family Fun Day & Craft Market Norton Village Hall, near Bury St Edmunds, 11 – 3pm Fund-raising craft market & children’s craft activities, Easter bonnet making & parade.

Easter egg hunt, petting zoo & refreshments.

Entry price: Donation Contact: npsfundraising@outlook.com UB40 Ipswich Regent, 7.30pm With a career that has seen the band enjoy more than forty UK Top 40 hit singles UB40 is one of the most successful British groups of all-time.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com Farmers Markets Beccles, Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Metfield, Village Hall, 9am – 12 noon Snape Maltings, 9.30am – 1pm Jimmy’s Farm, 10am – 2pm

APRIL 5 – 13 Fine Lines Lavenham Hall Gallery & Sculpture Garden.

Daily 11am to 6pm (9pm Fri 11th) An exhibition of Kate Denton Sculpture plus drawings, oils and etchings from Malcolm Brown.

Entry price: Free Contact: 01787 249841 dentonsculpture@aol.com www.katedenton.com

APRIL 5 – 22 Easter Holiday Activities Jimmy’s Farm, Wherstead, Ipswich Fun-packed Easter Egg hunt around the Nature Trail this Easter. Every child that completes it will receive a chocolate egg at the end! www.jimmysfarm.com

What’s On APRIL 6

APRIL 8 – 12

APRIL 10 – 19

Aldeburgh Voices – A German Requeim Snape Maltings

Translations New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 7.45pm

High Tide Festival The New Cut Halesworth

See mini preview p22 Box office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

See mini preview p23 Box Office: 01603 598606 www.hightide.org.uk

APRIL 9

APRIL 11

Stirring, tender, austere, intimate, Brahms’ beautiful, unconventional Requiem is like no other. Members of the National Youth Choir, who made such a striking Aldeburgh debut last summer, join Aldeburgh Voices in a performance of the composer’s own masterly arrangement for piano duet.

Box office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk Choral Workshop – Phoenix Singers Thomas Mills High School, Framlingham Registration 12.30pm Choral Workshop on the Vivaldi Gloria to raise funds for St Elizabth Hospice, Ipswich.

All singers very welcome. Join and sing or please come along to listen to an informal performance at 4 – 45pm.

Entry price: Suggested minimum donation £10 Contact: Gill Clare 01728 723841 gill.clare@tiscali.co.uk or Peter Moorhouse 01728 727465 peter.moorhouse@btinternet.com

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm It’s a funny, virtuosic, twanging, awesome, foot-stomping obituary of rock-n-roll and melodious light entertainment featuring only the ‘bonsai guitar’.

Tickets: £24.50 Contact: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

APRIL 9 – 12 Jesus Christ Superstar Regent Theatre, Ipswich See mini preview p22 Entry price: £16 / £14.50 (concessions £2 off) Box office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

Mokoomba The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 8pm Rising stars from Zimbabwe: Electrifying, intoxicating, irresistible! Fresh & original, Mokoomba mix Tonga rhythms with Congolese grooves and dashes of rap, ska and Latin.

Tickets: £12.50 (£10.50 concessions) £5 under 25s Contact: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

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APRIL 2014

APRIL 12 We are Handmade – contemporary spring craft & design fair The Old School, Long Melford, 10am – 4pm With over 45 stalls, this event will offer shoppers a wonderful choice of beautifully designed and handcrafted items. Makers will be showcasing the latest in contemporary and vintage inspired handmade items including jewellery, clothes, bags, prints, soaps, cards, soft furnishings and home wares, pottery and much more.

Entry: free Contact: 07824 888 346 dee@marbleevents.co.uk www.wearehandmade.co.uk Farmers Markets Halesworth, Town Centre, 9am – 1pm Woodbridge, Community Centre, 9am –1pm

APRIL 13 Spring Garden Preview Helmingham Hall Gardens.12pm – 5pm A special ‘Spring Preview’ afternoon which will showcase the wonderful daffodils and other spring garden delights. The Coach

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House Tearooms will be serving light bites and afternoon tea throughout the afternoon.

Entry price: Adults £6, Children £3.50 Contact: 01473 890799 events@helmingham.com www.helmingham.com

APRIL 14 Farmers Markets Assington, The Barn, 10am – 2pm

APRIL 15 – 19 Ipswich Choral Society Snape Maltings Concert Hall, 5.30pm Featuring the World Première of Stevie Wishart – Seasons. Also featuring Joseph Haydn – The Seasons (Autumn / Winter) and Symphony No.101 in D major ‘The Clock’.

Tickets: £20 – £14 Box Office Contact: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk www.ipswichchoralsociety.org The Little Mermaid Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge, 2.30 and 6pm The Children’s Theatre Company join Ariel in the magical kingdom under the sea.

Tickets: £10 Contact: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Betty Blue Eyes New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich Alan Bennett’s take on Austerity Britain; Gilbert and Joyce Chilvers are struggling to bring home the bacon and the only light on the horizon is a private function to celebrate the forthcoming marriage of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip.

When their invitation fails to arrive, Gilbert and Joyce resolve to get their share of the banquet’s illegal pork roast!

Nominated for the Olivier Award’s Best New Musical in 2011.

Box office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

To see more event listings for this month and beyond visit www.essentialsuffolk.com

What’s On Good Care Day Training Centre, Saxmundham, 9.30am – 3pm

APRIL 16 Ladies Pamper and Gift Event Tithe Barn, Sproughton nr Ipswich, 5pm – 9pm There will be many stalls offering massages, nails, waxing and threading etc and others selling handbags, jewellery, accessories, cup cakes, jams, healthy living products, make up, and much more!

All proceeds will go to the St Elizabeth Hospice Entry: Free Contact: 07590 217351 zoronline.sales@gmail.com

What are the choices for people who need care in Suffolk? Do you want to find out more about the care options available for yourself or someone you love? Expert speakers will explore fundamental issues from stroke awareness, to power of attorney, care after a stroke and the mobility options available to help get moving again.

Enry: free but places are limited so please reserve your place. See p60 for more details.

Contact: 01728 605013 lin.barnes@christiescare.com

La Boheme Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 7.30pm

APRIL 16 – 19

Directed by Ellen Kent, this brand new production is traditionally staged and features lavish sets and costumes. It tells the tragic tale of the doomed, consumptive Mimi and her love for a penniless writer. This classic tale of Parisian love and loss features many famous arias. Sung in Italian with English subtitles Box office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

Julie Madly Deeply Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds

Adored by millions, Dame Julie Andrews is a genuine legend of showbiz around the globe.

This charming yet cheeky cabaret takes an engaging look at fame and fandom, through the eyes and voice of award-winning singer, West End actress and Fascinating Aïda star Sarah-Louise Young.

Tickets: £16 – £8.50 Box office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

Watershed Productions present the BBC Worldwide and Polka Theatre production based on the characters created by Lauren Child adapted by Jonathan Lloyd. The stars of the hit BBC TV series and books are brought to life by a magical mix of puppets, live action and music.

Tickets: £13 – £8.50 Box office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

Famous Grade 1 Listed gardens set within a 400 acre deer park, surrounding the magnificent moated Helmingham Hall.

Spring Plant Fair Sunday 25th May 2014

Be enchanted by the walled kitchen garden, herb, knot, rose and wild gardens. Enjoy a delicious afternoon tea in The Coach House Tearooms and explore the exciting Stable Shops! See website for details on weddings and Cookery Experience Days with Suffolk Chef Emma Crowhurst

Suffolk Dog Day Sunday 27th July 2014

Open 1st May – 21st September Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sundays 12:00 – 17:00

Helmingham Hall Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 6EF

01473 890799 www.helmingham.com

Music in the Gardens 5th, 11th, 19th & 25th June 2014

Festival of Classic & Sports Car Sunday 3rd August 2014 Autumn Plant Fair Sunday 14th September 2014

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APRIL 18 Britten–Pears Orchestra Snape Maltings, 8.30pm Christian Zacharias director/piano, Ann Murray DBE mezzo soprano. Christian Zacharias is internationally renowned as an interpreter of the Mozart concertos, with Ann Murray the perfect collaborator in the glorious concert aria for mezzo soprano, piano and orchestra.

Box office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk

Farmers Markets Harkstead, Village Hall, 9am – 12 noon Aldeburgh, Church Hall, 9am – 12.30 Beccles, Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Debenham, Community Centre, 9am – 1pm

APRIL 20 Solomons Knot Orford Church, 3pm An Aldeburgh debut for this fast-rising early music group whose sharply-etched performances of baroque vocal music are underpinned by a freshness of thought and a tight-knit and intuitive musicianship.

Box office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk

APRIL 20 – MAY 19 APRIL 19 Spring Craft & Gift Fair St Peters by the Waterfront, Ipswich.

10am – 4pm Jewellery, gifts for children of all ages, paintings and drawings. Refreshments including enticing cakes and sweet treats will be available throughout the day and live music in the afternoon.

Contact: 01473 225269 www.stpetersbythewaterfront.com

Alde Valley Spring Festival White House Farm, Great Glemham.

Feast of Fiddles The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm 2014 marks the 21st year this group of musical friends have taken to the road to entertain their growing legion of fans with a show of huge dynamic range, passionate and joyful playing and a liberal dose of fun.

Tickets: £20 (£18concessions) Contact: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

See mini preview p23 www.aldevalleyspringfestival.co.uk

APRIL 21 – 27 Britten-Pears Masterclasses – The Marriage of Figaro Snape Maltings, 2.30pm Workshops on scenes from one of Mozart’s greatest operas led by two internationally celebrated interpreters. The course will

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What’s On culminate on Sunday afternoon with informal semi-staged performances with piano.

Box office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk

APRIL 22 – 26 Birdsong Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

Marking the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, Birdsong is the hit, critically acclaimed stage show based on the world famous novel by Sebastian Faulks.

A mesmerising story of love and courage.

Set both before and during the Great War. Tickets: £16 – £8.50 Box office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

APRIL 25 The Fitzrovia Radio Hour Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 7.30pm

APRIL 23 – MAY 3 Tom New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 7.45pm The story of Tom Jones otherwise known as Tommy Woodward, otherwise known as Tommy Scott and the Senators. This play with live rock and roll music tells the story of the blossoming talent of Tom Jones who sang in pubs and clubs up and down the valleys of South Wales until his big break with It’s Not Unusual in 1965! The music and the story of an ordinary man with an extraordinary talent.

Box office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Fresh from three critically acclaimed London residencies, and two sell-out years at the Edinburgh Fringe, The Fitzrovia Radio Hour’s brand new show recreates the spirit of 1940’s radio plays to produce a spiffing evening of entertainment.

Tickets: £10 – £25 Box office: 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

UNIQUE. BESPOKE. CRAFTSMANSHIP.

Quality cabinet making and carpentry From the design and survey through to installation and completion.

With over 15 years experience you can be sure that every design is individually created to your specifications and requirements and finished to the highest standard of craftsmanship.

Visit our website to see some of the fantastic projects we have been involved with this year.

4 April BOLD, INVENTIVE DANCE...

AN ADVENTURE IN HIP HOP THE STAGE

LUKE HUGGINS Bespoke Carpentry Ltd T: 07894 988380/01449 711915 E: luke.huggins@yahoo.co.uk www.lhugginsbespokecarpentry.co.uk

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The Jazzshades St Peters by the Waterfront, Ipswich, 7.45pm Originally formed in 1962 by Ipswich double bass player Tony Coe, the Jazzshades are a Foot Tappin’ Finger Snappin’ Cool Jazzin’ line-up of musicians from various parts of the UK who play the music of swinging Jazz standards with a sprinkling of the modern era.

Tickets: £10 Contact: 01473 225269 www.stpetersbythewaterfront.com

APRIL 25 AND 26 The Accrington Pals New Cut, Halesworth, 7.30pm Set a century ago during the first two years of the Great War. The ‘Pals’ are the Accrington men who marched high spiritedly off to war. Their experiences in the battlefields of Northern France are contrasted with those of the women they leave behind.

Box office: 0845 673 2123 | newcut.org

Watson Miles Jazz Quartet The Assembly Rooms, Dedham

APRIL 26 Sherlock Holmes by the Pantaloons St Peters by the Waterfront, Ipswich, 7.30pm How can one show with just four actors possibly contain so much action and adventure? Elementary, my dear!

The critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company put dynamic detective duo Holmes and Watson through their paces as they tackle their most fiendish case.

Contact: 01473 225269 www.stpetersbythewaterfront.com RSPB spring concert Snape Maltings, 7.30pm The City of London Sinfonia conducted

by Michael Collins perform works by Mozart and Beethoven including Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto and Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony.

Box office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk Farmers Markets Woodbridge, Community Centre, 9am – 1pm

To see more listings for this and coming months and to tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com We cannot guarantee inclusion in print but all suitable listings will be included online

A lively evening of ballads, bossa and blues from Malcolm Miles (saxophone) and Andy Watson (guitar) with their band. There will also be a licensed bar.

Entry price: £15 to include supper Contact: 01206 299448 or 01206 298375 or email weatheralld@btinternet.com

APRIL 27 Farmers Markets Lavenham Village Hall 10am – 1.30pm

APRIL 28 – MAY 3 Blood Brothers Ipswich Regent, 7.30pm Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

The Award Winning

Ipswich Operatic & Dramatic Society proudly presents

An amateur production by arrangement with The Really Useful Group Ltd.

Lyrics by Tim Rice Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber 9th - 12th April 2014 The Regent Theatre Ipswich Box office: 01473 433100 Website: www.ipswichregent.com Ipswich Operatic & Dramatic Society registered charity number 800129

/IODSIpswich

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@IODS1

www.iods.co.uk

®

Mini Previews

STORM OF STORIES FESTIVAL 2014 Aldeburgh, Leiston and Framlingham. March 28 – April 6

Stories, myths, legends, folk and fairy tales are, says Aldeburghbased theatre company ‘Wonderful Beast’, are for everyone and not just for children. Its forthcoming festival, Storm of Stories, which will feature events in Leiston, Aldeburgh and Framlingham, will prove the point. The festival was first held in 2012 but now, this second celebration has been extended from four to seven days because of its popularity.

Storm of Stories 2014 aims to involve the whole community with a host of professional performers visiting schools, libraries and venues in Leiston, Aldeburgh and Framlingham. Audiences will be treated to some wonderful and inspiring performances including Actability Inclusive Theatre Company (a cast of abled and disabled actors) and TUUP, April 5 at the Jubilee Hall, the splendid story spinner who will tell two magical tales: Ammacoso, When Rocks Talk and Flowers Have Lips, and The Star Maiden, a Native American Indian tale.

AVANT GARDE DANCE

The Epic Juke Box (April 5 at the Jubilee Hall) features six storytellers, telling six episodes from six epics. Inspired by a central Indian singing tradition a motley crew of storytellers combine stories, rhythm, song and stick-wielding, to turn on the epic jukebox and enter a wild night of global myth in untamed short form style. Noisy, bold and exuberant – this has more experimental excitement than you can shake a stick at... live and irresistibly direct it promises to be a high voltage mythological mash up!

Another highlight of the festival is an art installation, The Old Wood, taking place at the Pump House, Aldeburgh on 5 and 6 April.

INFORMATION www.wonderfulbeast.co.uk

THE BLACK ALBUM

Jerwood Dancehouse Ipswich. April 4

A triple bill of exceptional pieces and three distinctly different hip hop choreographies seamlessly woven together like a concept album. What The Black Album offers is a line-up of effortlessly stylish music-inspired dance. From Jazzanova to Mozart, Woodkid to Trentemoller, Linkin Park to Beethoven, innovative contemporary choreography will take you on a soulful journey experiencing the many complex and powerfully cool shades of black. Under the artistic direction of awardwinning Tony Adigun, Avant Garde Dance is a London based company at the forefront of innovative hip hop contemporary dance theatre. In 2011 and 2012 Adigun was awarded Best Choreographer at the BEFFTA Awards, he is also Artistic Director of Sky’s Got To Dance.

INFORMATION Box Office: 01473 295230 | www.danceeast.co.uk

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TRANSLATIONS

New Wolsey Theatre April 8 – 12

The English Touring Theatre is returning to Ipswich this month with its poignant production of Brian Friel’s Translations. Set in 19th century rural Ireland, local farm-girl Máire finds herself torn between the affections of the local schoolteacher and the love of a British soldier, as the British Army arrives in their quiet village in Donegal to translate Gaelic place names into the King’s English. The resulting clash of two worlds threatens the very heart of the community as they struggle to interpret a new language and each other.

Translations is a co-production by English Touring Theatre, Sheffield Theatres and Rose Theatre Kingston and this production has been much lauded by the critics. The Times said it was “so poignant that collective intakes of breath could be heard”, while the British Theatre Guide’s view was, “This production does full justice to the resonance and poetic quality of the writing, and to the ‘language of theatre’ he has mastered.”

Brian Friel is an Irish playwright, theatre director and author.

He is best known for his plays Philadelphia Here I Come! and Dancing at Lughnasa as well as Translations.

INFORMATION Box Office on 01473 295900 | www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR For the first time in its almost 60 year history the Ipswich Operatic & Dramatic Society has not one but two ex-West End professionals on its production team for the spring production. Director Martin Warden is originally from Woodbridge and started his stage career with Company of Four when he was just three years old. He’s gone on to appear in West End hit musicals Les Miserables (for 7 years), Miss Saigon, Oliver, Oklahoma and was the deputy resident director of the Jesus Christ Superstar professional UK and Europe tour which puts him in a perfect position to lead this latest production. Alongside Martin choreographer Mark Connell brings his flair and originality to the show staging much of the movement in this all music performance.

Appearing professionally in The Full Monty, Miss Siagon and for many years in Mamma Mia in the West End he brings an infectious energy to the stage.

For any amateur society casting a show with so many male characters is always difficult but IODS have come up trumps with long time member Jonathan Mudd playing the key role of Judas Iscariot. In an interesting twist he took the lead role of Jesus when the society last staged this epic musical back in 2004 and plays in perfect contrast to his fellow principal Phil Kinsella as Jesus. IODS are known for the depth of talent through the society and with Marcus House as Pontious Pilate, Sian Naylor as Mary Magdalene and Wade Ablitt as Simon Zealotes plus an all singing and dancing ensemble, audiences won’t be disappointed.

Regent Theatre Ipswich April 9 – 12

IODS is a registered charity and will also be raising funds for Suffolk Family Carers at each performance.

INFORMATION Box Office: 01473 433100 | www.ipswichregent.com | www.iods.co.uk 22

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Mini Previews

HIGH TIDE FESTIVAL

New Cut, Halesworth April 10 – 19

The eighth High Tide Festival in Halesworth features a line up which is nothing less than glittering. Its famous Face to Face series includes one of Britain’s best actors – Michael Gambon, known to some as Professor Albus Dumbledore but whose stage and screen work ranges from the plays of Harold Pinter, Samuel Beckett and Alan Ayckbourn to Shakespeare. On April 12 another of Britain’s greats, the writer David Hare, who has been Oscar nominated for screenplays for The Reader and The Hours is being interviewed by author Kate Mosse. She in turn, along with writer Anthony Horrowitz, is also being interviewed, this time by Libby Purves.

Of course High Tide is also very much about new plays and this year will present four premiere productions by Elinor Cook, Harry Melling, Dan LeFranc and Nick Payne.

There are also readings of Boa by Clara Brennan, performed by Olivier Award winner Harriet Walter and her husband Guy Paul and I’m Not Here Right Now by Thomas Eccleshare. Diana Quick returns to HighTide following her performance in Adam Brace's Midnight Your Time at HighTide Festival 2011 and at the Edinburgh Festival.

Directed by Michael Boyd, she is part of an outstanding ensemble cast including Kirsty Bushell and Jo Stone-Fewing, who memorably played opposite one-another in Headlong's stunning production of Angels in America.

HighTide’s six playwrights who have been selected as Escalator Writers-on-Attachment include Georgia Christou, Vickie Donoghue (Mudlarks, HighTide/Bush), Marcelo Dos Santos (Lionboy, Complicite), Daniel Kanaber (Shiver, Watford Palace), Nessah Muthy (Gastronauts, Royal Court) and Sophie Stanton (Cariad, Clwyd Theatre Cymru). Plus, Ronnie Scott’s returns to HighTide, this time with award-winning jazz vocalist, Georgia Mancio who will lead a late night session accompanied by stellar pianist, Dave Newton.

INFORMATION www.hightide.org.uk

ALDE VALLEY SPRING FESTIVAL April 19 – May 18 Every year since it launched Alde Valley Spring Festival has grown in stature and scope attracting audiences from far and wide and artists with local, national and international renown. As ever it offers a four-week celebration of food, farming, landscape and the arts and this year the themes are the lie of the land and a sense of place – the connections between landscape, food, arts and identity.There are new initiatives this year as well, White House Farm is to be opened as a Higher Level Stewardship Farmyard classroom part-funded by Natural England for use by local rural primary schools and FE / HE students from Easton-Otley College. There’s the launch of festival residency programmes in sound, drawing, painting, sculpture and writing. As ever there will be the popular farm suppers – a programme of suppers celebrating local foods from

farms in the beautiful Alde Valley – still superstore free from source to sea. Contributors will include Peak Hill Farm, Theberton; White House Farm, Great Glemham; Rendham Hall Dairy, Rendham; High House Fruit Farm, Sudbourne.

There will also be the launch of new chairs from The Suffolk Chair Collection – including new examples of the limited edition Akenfield chair, made in association with Tim Whiting.

Artists taking part include, Maggi Hambling, Ffiona Lewis, Tessa Newcomb, Ruth Stage, Richard Elliott, Meriel Ensom, Melanie Comber, Tory Lawrence, Caroline McAdam Clark, Jason Gathorne-Hardy, Clara Drummond, Kate Giles and Jelly Green and Lily Hunter-Green. In addition also taking part are sculptors: Stuart Anderson, Laurence Edwards, Roger Hardy, Cat Vitebsky, Sarah Pirkis, Freddy Morris, Craig Hudson, Alice-Andrea-Ewing, Alex Johnson, potter, Mercury Hare, chair makers: Dylan Pym, Jim Parsons, Tim Whiting and Raymond Hopkins.

INFORMATION www.aldevalleyspringfestival.co.uk

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Essential

DAYS OUT

Easter always brings the promise of sunshine and the chance to explore the Suffolk coast and countryside. As many attractions are opening their doors for the new season it’s the chance to get out and about in our beautiful county.

Here are just a few suggestions from the Essential team SIEGE! Framlingham Castle What better place to witness a living history lesson than the spectacular Framlingham Castle. On Easter Sunday and Monday you will be able to catapult yourself into the awesome spectacle of a castle under Norman attack. You will be able to witness the opposing forces prepare for the encounter, pick your side and check your armour before the awe-inspiring trebuchet hurtles into action. There will also be the opportunity to hear gruesome tales from the medieval surgeon and experience the fear and anticipation of battle with the rallying cry of generals as they prepare their soldiers for the impending bloodshed.

INFORMATION Tickets (which also include entry to the castle and grounds): Adult £7.70 (Concession £6.90) Child £4.60, Family £20 Members: Free www.english-heritage.org.uk/framlingham

Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Suffolk’s only operational preserved steam railway, ‘The Middy’ at Wetheringsett opens on Easter Sunday and Monday with family activities and train rides. The MidSuffolk Light Railway, was a classic case of a railway built too late for the great railway age and never paid its way. Although the line was never fully completed it still managed to struggle on against all odds for 50 years. In 1991, after almost all traces of the line had disappeared, a group of enthusiasts decided that this country railway, once so important to the area should not be forgotten. ‘The Middy’, a fine example of rural English history, is now resurrected as Suffolk’s only railway museum and is, ironically, probably busier than it ever was.

INFORMATION Open 11am – 5pm every Sunday and Bank holidays from Easter to the end of September. Entrance: Adults £6, Children £3 www.mslr.org.uk

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Easter Days Out

Bawdsey RADAR

Lettering Arts Centre

The Transmitter Block, Bawdsey

Snape Maltings

Open on Easter Sunday and Monday this unique exhibition, with its interactive displays, tells the story of the “Invention that Changed the World”. It reveals how scientists, engineers and technicians came together at Bawdsey in the 1930s in total secrecy to prove that radio waves could locate aeroplanes, ships and other targets. Bawdsey became the world’s first operational radar station in 1937 and played a pivotal role in the Battle of Britain in 1940. The display features the lives of the people who developed the technology and the radar operators, mainly women (WAAFs), whose dedication helped to bring victory in WW2. Since then RADAR has played a vital role not just in air traffic control and marine navigation but police RADAR guns as well as weather forecasts using RADAR maps. Perhaps less well known is RADAR astronomy where the surfaces of the moon and planets have been mapped and satellites monitored. With the recent advent of WiFi, RADAR is used to passively monitor the flow of human traffic in buildings. In our homes, at the heart of the microwave oven is the cavity magnetron, a device originally developed for airborne RADAR.

A new exhibition opening this month champions the rare art of letter carving by East Anglian apprentices. Masters and Apprentices; The Transfer of Passion, features the work of seven apprentices plus work by their masters and teachers including well known East Anglian sculptors and letter carvers such as Charlotte Howarth and Gary Breeze.

A full Lettering Arts Trust apprenticeship lasts for two years, but the design, drawing and layout of letters themselves can take years to master. East Anglian letterer apprentices include Stuart Buckle and Louise Tiplady, whose work will be displayed alongside that of their teachers, showing their breadth and variety, a testimony to the patient way precious and fragile letter carving skills have been passed on. Joanna Lumley commented on the work of the Trust: “to see the beauty of the lettering, and the ingenious skilled loveliness in the way the works are presented, somehow links us to eternity”.

INFORMATION The exhibition is open from 12.30-4.30pm Admission £4, children free www.bawdseyradar.org.uk

INFORMATION www.letteringartstrust.org.uk

Glebe House Residential Retirement Home, Hollesley, Woodbridge

ANDREWGILMOUR

AG

Glebe House is a fine Victorian former rectory situated in the heart of the Suffolk Heritage Coast – offering a unique and caring environment for the care of the elderly in their retirement.

AND ASSOCIATES

We offer: • Long term care • Early stage of dementia care • Short term care • NVQ trained dedicated staff • Respite holiday care

• Individual care planning • Day care • Activities & outings • Convalescent stay • Traditional home cooking

Please contact us for further information, to request a brochure or to arrange a visit.

Glebe House Retirement Home Rectory Road, Hollesley, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 3SJ

t:01394 410298 www.glebehouseretirement.co.uk

osteopathy and physiotherap y • • • •

Osteopathy Physiotherapy Spinal Physician Sports & Exercise and Musculosketal Medicine

• Physiotherapy-based Pilates • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy • MRI and Imaging Services

Tollgate Cottage,Yarmouth Road Melton, Woodbridge, IP12 1QF 01394 387818 www.gilmourosteo.co.uk email andrew@gilmourosteo.co.uk EssentialSUFFOLK

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Suffolk People

EYES ACROSS THE WORLD A new global art project has been in launched in Aldeburgh featuring the eyes of 25 local people as its centrepiece. Anne Gould talks to its creator – artist Eileen Haring Woods

T

he big brown eyes of British actor Diana Quick, projected onto the Aldeburgh Beach Lookout gaze down onto Crag Path.

It’s the sort of arresting image that makes passers by stop and stare and… one imagines, wonder as well. Then the picture changes and we see the eyes of a man with glasses who seems to be having fun, it changes again and we see more eyes and yet more eyes. Over the course of the next ten minutes we see about 25 sets of eyes and then the film repeats itself – but you discover that you keep on watching.

Who these people are most of us will never know, but for local residents these are eyes they might encounter every day because they belong to the mayor, the woman next door and famous folk like Diana who they might just see round the town from time to time. It’s a hypnotic display and as a piece of installation art it’s something extraordinary and wonderful – more akin to Bankside, the Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall for instance, or for that matter any public gallery in a world capital or major city.

Little wonder then that it made waves at this year’s London Art Show and shortly will be moving not just to Ipswich but way beyond Suffolk’s shores to New York and LA with a London date pencilled in for the autumn. The project, “Unique in the Universe” has been devised by American-born artist, Eileen Haring Woods, who’s now a diehard Suffolk resident living in Middleton Moor. It’s the result of a residency at the Aldeburgh Beach Lookout, set up by Caroline Wiseman, gallery owner and established innovator in the national and international art world, as a centre for creativity and imagination.

Since moving to Suffolk Caroline has invited scores of emerging and established artists, painters, sculptors and photographers to the Beach Lookout to create and exhibit new work in just a week. For visitors the quaint Victorian tower, set on the shingle with its twisted spiral staircase and secret hideaway on the first floor is just part of Aldeburgh’s extraordinary and much-lauded beach. It has been used for many things over the years – as a philosopher and writer’s hideaway and an observation post for watching ships at sea. Yet it’s recent incarnation, as a visionary art gallery is what’s really likely to put it on the map – Eileen’s project is going to take a global peek over the horizon with ambitions to create a portrait of the world. Eileen explained, “Unique in the Universe celebrates our uniqueness and our interdependence using our eyes as a visual metaphor. Interdependence begins with communication and while we might not be able to understand each other’s spoken or written language we can look to each other to find trust and respect. Through this interaction we can work towards a more peaceful and cohesive society.”

Diana Quick is the first set of eyes in the first sequence. “Eileen came and filmed me and asked me to look sad, excited, worried and so forth. I suppose because I am actor I am used to really looking into a camera but for most people it’s going to be a very unfamiliar process.

I think this project is amazing and has every chance it will go viral. I am very proud to have been the first one.”

But, she explained, when Unique in the Universe moves to a new location there will be 25 new sets of local eyes on every film. Of course there will be a search for

an appropriate building to screen her films against too. She says it’s important that it’s shown in a public place and ideally against an iconic structure.

Eileen says she’s been really impressed by international installation artists Christo and Ai Wei Wei, not least because of the profound effect on everyone who takes part in what they do. “Our work is inspired by their process.” Already more than 100 people have been filmed but she says the process is very low tech – she uses a DSLR camera and a “lovely old tripod” that’s been around since 1947.

“We meet, talk and get to know each other first as most of the people I film are not used to being interviewed.

The conversation is a key part of what I do. The process itself involves filming for a couple of minutes and then I’ll use 15 to 20 seconds in the final cut.

It’s always interesting how people react.

Some people like to talk while others are silent during the process, but whatever they are thinking comes through in their eyes.”

The eventual aim she said is to create a universal yet intimate portrait of the human race. Although a key part of the work is the projection Eileen and Caroline are offering anyone who wants to be part of the project the opportunity to be filmed. All they ask is for a donation of £20, which will be used to take the project round the world.

There’s also an option for people to have photographic prints of their eyes projected on the Aldeburgh Beach Lookout at an extra cost.

INFORMATION www.aldeburghbeachlookout.com

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NIGHT LIFE Armed with chocolate and water Town Pastors have been patrolling the streets of Suffolk at weekends for 14 years. Now they are about to hit the national festival circuit too. Anne Gould talks to Canon Paul Daltry about the project

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Ipswich Town Pastors

I

t’s that time of year when young people start counting their pennies and thinking about the summer festival circuit. Co-incidentally Canon Paul Daltry and an army of more than 300 Town Pastors from Suffolk will also be thinking about the same thing too.

They’ve been at Latitude, invited by the Henham Park organisers, for the last three years but now news of their good work has spread and they’ve been asked to help at Leeds and Reading, V Festival, the Isle of Wight and Bestival as well.

It’s something that Paul, Chairman of Ipswich Town Pastors and co-ordinator of eight other schemes across the country is clearly delighted to be involved with and not least because it’s Christianity in action. “At Latitude we have a tent which offers a safe place to go where people can talk and relax and get tea and coffee at a very reasonable price.” There are also team patrols – Festival Pastors wearing high visibility jackets – who offer water, sweets, community safety advice or aid for those who might have overdone the revelry.

“Last year we had 60 people at Latitude and it was the first year we did patrols at night. Previously the festival had relied solely on their security teams for the night work but they have a different job to do than us. However the organisers were blown away by what we did because we operate in a different manner. Our presence, it seems helps to reduce crime.”

The Town Pastor scheme has been in operation in Ipswich since Christmas 2005 when Paul was asked by Sgt Neil Boast, who has recently been awarded an MBE, to help in the run up to Christmas. “They had introduced a hard-hitting zero tolerance policy for alcohol offences and were going to lock people up for the night for getting drunk. We were asked in to see if we could make a difference. There were three teams of us and we went out on four nights and it was a great success.”

As a result they decided to set up a proper charity, recruited scores of volunteers and started training so since May 2006 Town Pastors has become a regular feature in Ipswich every weekend. ‰

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Ipswich Town Pastors

Subsequently the Town Pastor scheme has spread to Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe, Lowestoft, Stowmarket, Sudbury and Woodbridge.

Clearly being involved is a big commitment – volunteers work one night a month from 9.30pm - 4am.

There are two teams, based in Great Coleman Street – says Paul. The first goes out on patrol – usually three groups of two people who walk the streets

wearing high visibility jackets simply look for people who have overdone the partying. Back at base there’s also a prayer team boosted by other volunteers who pray at home for one hour slots through the night. “They listen out on the radio to alert us in case there are any problems, make sure refreshments are available when pastors have their break and of course pray as well.”

Obviously they encounter people with all sorts of problems – some have clearly drunk too much and have lost their money and phone and need help to get home. “We may call a parent or someone to come and help them and on occasion we’ve had taxi drivers take them home.” Others may be in need of help from emergency services and other vulnerable people can be helped out of tricky situations. “Amazing things happen every week though and we believe the prayer teams really make a difference. For instance, one night I was out on patrol in Upper Brook Street and we saw a young woman who looked quite distressed. We approached her but she didn’t want any help – then we heard over the radio that the Ipswich Security CCTV person was also concerned about her. Some guys started to bother her so we intervened. It turned out she was completely lost, was drunk and emotional. She’d come to Ipswich with her brother and a friend from Romford. Her phone was out of charge, she’d been drinking, her brother had been arrested and the friend had just disappeared. Also she couldn’t remember her home phone number so we couldn’t get any help from there.

All of a sudden a taxi pulls up and inside is her other brother who had come from Romford looking for her.

How did that happaen?”

Paul says that most of the people they deal with are in the 18-30 age group who have simply drunk too much but on occasion there are older people in need too. Although the Town Pastors are all volunteers running this service comes at a cost – £21,000 a year for Ipswich but £100,000 across the county. “We are funded through grants and donations but like many organisations in the current economic climate we are about to do a major review of what we spend.”

It’s an excellent service and has been shown to reduce crime and help people in real need but funding and creating a business plan is now necessary, he says.

INFORMATION If you’d like to get involved visit www.townpastors.org.uk Canon Paul Daltry

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APRIL 2014

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For Spring 2014 expect to see an invasion of camouflage! The military print is no longer saved for combat fatigues so expect to find it on everything from sunglasses down to footwear – and not just in khaki either. These silk trousers (right) from Danish designer Custommade are a great way to give nod to the trend in an elegant way. Simply pair with a plain navy or white tee and killer heels or pumps.

Emma Lloyd Marianna Boutique, Ipswich

NEW FOR SPRING & SUMMER 2014 2

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Fashion

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Silk Custommade camouflage trousers £145, Marianna Masai stripe tunicdress £88, Caramel Ink dress from Kristensen Du Nord £329, Marianna Save the Queen turquoise print dress £219, Darcy B Joseph Ribkoff navy and ivory print top with slash batwing sleeves £189, Darcy B 6. Soaked in Luxury blue button back tunic £69, Laura Jane Boutique 7. Unisa Patrick navy kid suede shoes £100, Collen & Clare 8. People Tree sausage dog T shirt £32, Brax perma blue jeans (available in slim and feminine fit) £99.95, Caramel 9. Marble stripped dress £55, Adams Apple 10. White cropped stretch jeans £95, Marble navy lace knit top with modesty vest £60, butterfly scarf £15, Adams Apple

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back detail

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blues...

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Sprin Collect g io now her ns e

CARAMEL速 140 High Street, Aldeburgh Suffolk IP15 5AQ

CARAMEL速 Snape Maltings, Snape Suffolk IP17 1SP

01728 452141

01728 687467

www.caramel-aldeburgh.co.uk

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Masai top £69.50, Masai scarf £23, Caramel Laurel jersey tile print dress £245 and matching jacket £395, Collen & Clare Sandwich dress (coral) £89, Sandwich metal & glass necklace (pewter) £25, Fleur L’Vidal coral jacket (also in stone) £149, Laura Jane Boutique Capri Galaxy top £55, Adams Apple Mariejo Axelle in Gardenia Rose A-E cup bra £76.95, briefs XS-XL from £38.95, Sweet Dreams Intown gilet (coral) £62.95, Fleur

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NEW SPRING & SUMMER COLLECTION

Stocking labels: YAYA PERUZZI PART TWO DRANELLA LAUREN VIDAL SOAKED IN LUXURY MODA IN PELLE SHOES

BEAUTIFUL CLOTHES & ACCESSORIES

See It...

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89/91 Thoroughfare • Woodbridge • Suffolk • IP12 1AW 01394 386686 www.laurajaneboutique.co.uk Situated at the end of the Thoroughfare, just over the traffic lights.

THE HEART OF

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01394 380306 Open 9.30-5 M Monday-Saturday, onday-Saturday, open Sundays from from Ma May y1 11am-3pm.

1am-3pm. O Open pen G Good ood F Friday riday a and nd Ea Easter ster Mo Monday nday

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Fashion

neutrals...

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White shirt from Kristensen Du Nord £229, Marianna Crepe white blazer with stripe trim by HW2 £219, Marianna Joseph Ribkoff Black and vanilla jacket £220, black and white spot pants £159, Darcy B Unisa Marion blush patent shoes £130, Collen & Clare Harriet Sanders harlequin bag £115, O&C Butcher Silvian Heach bag £55, Holly Blue Boutique Cristina Gavioli long dress £160, Holly Blue Boutique

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APRIL 2014

patterns...

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This season colours range from pretty pastels to vibrant yellows, greens and blues. Patterns, prints and slogans feature heavily for tops and dresses.

Sue Fletcher Caramel

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Fox & Chave silk bird song scarf £38, Caramel Aria colourful print dress £135, Adams Apple Soft and pretty shirt dress £57, Samphire at Snape Maltings Green beaded bracelet £11, Caramel

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Spotted in Aldeburgh Bringing their reputation for old fashioned service and up to the minute style to Aldeburgh, Collen & Clare have opened a new store on the High Street. Combining easy to wear style in a warm, relaxed and friendly atmosphere, their opening collections include: AMERICAN VINTAGE ANNICK GOUTAL ANYA HINDMARCH BITTE KAI RAND CANDICE COOPER CAUDALIE CITIZENS OF HUMANITY CONVERSE HANRO HAVAIANAS LAUREL MADE MAXMARA MIH NOBLE ISLE REN UGG 16 4 H I G H ST R E E T A L D E B U R G H

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25 M A R K E T P L A C E S O U T H W O L D

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O P E N 7 D AYS

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STOCKISTS Adams Apple 70 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge.

T: (01394) 384685 Caramel 140 High Street, Aldeburgh and Snape Maltings.

T: (01728) 452141 www.caramel-aldeburgh.co.uk Collen & Clare 25 Market Place, Southwold and 164 High Street, Aldeburgh.

T: (01502) 724823 www.collenandclare.com Darcy B Market Hill Framlingham & Woodbridge.

T: (01728) 720052 www.darcy-b.co.uk Fleur 166 High Street, Aldeburgh. www.fleuraldeburgh.co.uk T: (01728) 454822 Holly Blue Boutique 72 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge.

T: (01394) 382300 Laura Jane Boutique 89/91 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge.

T: (01394) 386686 Marianna 33a St Peter’s Street, Ipswich.

T: (01473) 225666 www.mariannaboutique.co.uk O&C Butcher 129-131 High Street, Aldeburgh.

T: (01728) 452229 www.ocbutcher.co.uk Samphire Clothes & Accessories Snape Maltings.

T: (01728) 688303 www.snapemaltings.co.uk Sweet Dreams 45a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge.

T: (01394) 380306

available at:

The Hill House 13 Market Hill Framlingham Suffolk IP13 9AN Tel: 01728 720 052

23 Market Hill Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 4LX Tel: 01394 388 880

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ADVERTISEMENT

APRIL 2014

GARDEN PARTY

Where are you planning to hold your wedding reception? If it’s in the grounds of your home no doubt you want the garden to look its best.

Suffolk gardening expert Catharine Howard has some advice

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So, your grounds and garden will be the stage-set for a wedding planned from home. For winter, restrain yourself to a spruce comb-over but all the other seasons can have zinging colour added to them and will not consume greedy amounts of money. To up the ante for the maximum amount of bloom in borders for that one day, a little bit of green-fingered practice will pay off.

As a coach I have helped mothers’ of the bride set to with this as soon as the wedding is in the diary.

various areas as eye-catchers. Of course you want every border to look immaculate but what do the guests see as they drive up or stand lingering by the marquee? Concentrate on these places. Be aware of what is seen close up or as a mirage in the distance.

Choose the size of plants accordingly.

Tall impact white foxgloves in the distance against white Suffolk brick will show up where small plants will be lost.

For this reason, avoid modern hybrid dwarf plants.

So where do you begin? Backwards: with the date. Cross check against that to see what will be trumpeting flowers in your garden. It’s worth staying your hand before you gallop of to buy bucket loads of peonies and roses. These plants and others like them will need a year to establish. Look around the garden and take measure of site-lines that show up

Use some large pots - nothing to stop you wrapping containers in muslin or another fabric to hide cheap plastic.

Plant with impact for the season – it might be a glorious wine red pelargonium with apple green leaves or agapanthus for late summer effect or a black bushy- tailed grass. Check what will be in flower on the day. ‰

Weddings

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Situated on the breathtakingly beautiful Suffolk coast, Thorpeness Country Club provides the perfect backdrop for your special day.

We have a few remaining 2014 dates available.

Take advantage of our late availability offer of an all-inclusive wedding for £3,500+VAT, inc. 60 day guests and evening buffet on any remaining 2014 date, held before November 2014.

Our team have experience of planning all sorts of weddings, within all sorts of timescales – from more than 2 years, to as little as 6 weeks! So if you are tempted to plan your wedding in 2014, we would be delighted to help you.

Call our Wedding Planner today to arrange a viewing at this spectacular venue and start planning your 2014 wedding on the Suffolk coast.

The offer is subject to availability and applies to available 2014 dates. The offer cannot be applied to existing bookings or combined with any other offers. Church and Registrar’s fees apply and are payable to the relevant authorities separately.

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Weddings

pruned and dead-headed and in return for this (excepting the old-fashioned one flush types) will flower right through until the frost arrives.

An eye-catching focal point

For a spring wedding (if you have time – by the end of November the previous year, say) there is an entire fairground of bulbs to select from. Crocus, narcissi and hyacinths rioting into the glorious mainstream of tulips motley, stripy and every colour imaginable. All you have to do is plant them in the autumn or early winter ahead. Should you have cherry blossom or a magnolia in flower it will be unforgettable. Again check up on the flowering dates. Hard on the heels of spring bulbs will be alliums which are tall, structural and will perform in a very showy manner for a May wedding and then your roses will burst into glorious scent and bloom.

The roses will need to be regularly fed,

Otherwise your extended flower palette will be with annuals. They are programmed to flower, set seed and multiply in one growing season. Their bright colours are the lure to make sure this happens. Get an idea of your colour swatches and go on-line and look at the seed catalogues. Thompson & Morgan and Moles Seeds are our local excellent seed merchants. Sowing can be done in situ. I clear patches in the beds ahead.

Out with those weeds and rake to a fine tilth. It works to sow in curling blocks that are vaguely copying an oldfashioned paisley pattern. Mark these patterns out with a trail of sand and sow as directed by the packet. Expect a twelve week nail-biting gap between sowing and flowering.

morning glory. A good tip is to buy lilies as bulbs and pot them up to move into gaps in your flowerbeds. The same goes for dahlias which can be ordered as tubers now in harlequin colours. The pots for these will have to be big but they can be popped in as instant fix at the last minute. Stake them and feed them regularly through the summer.

It you are altogether relaxed and want to avoid the call to green fingers, just make sure that you feed, weed and judiciously dead-head where perennials can be coaxed for a second flush of flowering. This is particularly true for autumn weddings where you are conning the flowers to think the summer will never end.

Sow batches of back-up seeds to put in to the greenhouse, on to the window sills or out into the garden if it is warm enough. Many nurseries will sell you plug plants – if you are nervous of sowing techniques they are a good alternative. The downside is that they will need even more assiduous watering than the sown annuals. Gain height in an instance by putting up temporary tripods and growing ramping annual climbers on them: sweet peas, cobea and Use large pots or containers for added colour

Immaculate borders will be the order of the day

INFORMATION Catharine Howard is the Gardening Coach at www.catharinehoward.co.uk and on Twitter @CatharineHoward Roses and lilies are ideal

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APRIL 2014

WEDDING PLANNER Your Essential guide to making sure everything for your Big Day goes smoothly 12 MONTHS before • Book Wedding Planner • Book venue for reception • Book venue for ceremony • Book registrar/priest • Decide on a budget • Consider wedding insurance • Decide on a theme/design

7 MONTHS before • Order Bride’s dress and accessories • Book musicians for ceremony • Organise any ‘other’ entertainment • Reserve any rental equipment (marquee, chairs etc.)

4 MONTHS before • Organise favours • Send invitations • Book wedding night accommodation • Accommodation for guests • Gift registry • Give notice of marriage

1 MONTH before • Arrange seating plan • Order stationery for the day (table plan, place cards etc.)

• Make arrangements for wedding dress cleaning • Make arrangements for bouquet to be stored or dried

11 MONTHS before • Order Save The Date cards

6 MONTHS before • Order invitations • Bridesmaid’s dresses and accessories • Groom’s attire and accessories • Buy wedding rings • Book honeymoon • Check passports etc. are valid for honeymoon

3 MONTHS before • Buy gifts for bridal party, groomsmen etc.

• Decide on music for the ceremony and first dance • Decide on readings for the ceremony • Write wedding vows • Order stationery for the day (guest book, order of service etc.)

2 WEEKS before • Hold rehearsal dinner with wedding party • Confirm number of guests with reception venue and caterer • Write speeches (Groom, Best Man and Father of the Bride)

10 MONTHS before • Compile invitation list • Book caterer • Send Save The Date cards 8 MONTHS before • Book florist • Book transport • Book cake maker • Book photographer • Book videographer • Book band/DJ • Book reception decorator (chair covers etc.)

• Book toastmaster

5 MONTHS before • Order Groomsmen’s attire and accessories • Book hairdresser trial • Book make-up trial • Buy going away outfit, if relevant • Schedule rehearsal time and rehearsal dinner

2 MONTHS before • Finalise menu for wedding breakfast • Order table centre pieces • Arrange hen/stag parties • Chase unanswered invitations

After THE WEDDING • Send thank you cards

WhiteWedding of your dreams

Imagine your most special day on the romantic idyllic Suffolk coast, directly on the beachfront and overlooking the sea in Aldeburgh.

Our beautiful and unique beachside venue offers licenced ceremonies and caters for parties from 8 to 80 guests.

Offering delicious and imaginative menus or your very own bespoke menu, our aim is to make your wedding day a truly unforgettable one.

Our professional and flexible team specialises in making all your dreams come true for your magical day delivering the highest of standards of catering, service and professionalism.

Your dream wedding by the sea

RSVP please call our wedding co-ordinator on 01728 452720 or email juliet@whitelion.co.uk The White Lion Hotel, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BJ www.whitelion.co.uk

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Finance

ARE ISAs WORTH IT?

James Wright

ISAs have been around for a number of years following on from PEPs and TESSAs. They allow individuals to hold savings free from income and capital gains tax.

gilts and corporate loans and the commercial property sector, Stocks and Shares ISAs can be used very effectively to provide growth or income free of tax.

The annual ISA allowance can often be ignored but if contributions to PEPs, TESSAs and ISAs had been maximised since inception a total of £224,300 (including the 2013/14 tax year) could have been invested before any growth is taken account of.

It’s worth noting that Cash ISAs can be transferred into Stocks and Shares ISAs; however the reverse is not possible. Therefore if you have Cash ISAs achieving minimal interest they may possibly achieve a better return by investing in a diverse portfolio.

For 2013/14 the ISA allowance is £11,520. Up to £5,760 can be held in a Cash ISA with one provider; any remaining allowance (i.e. up to the full £11,520) is available to invest in a Stocks and Shares ISA. In 2014/15 the ISA allowance will increase to £11,880 again with up to half potentially in cash.

Interest rates for Cash ISAs have fallen since 2007 with a good instant access Cash ISA offering only 1.75%. Stocks and Shares ISAs offer a way of potentially achieving a better return but with greater risk and uncertainty.

With the use of an appropriate asset allocation strategy, investing in a range of equities in the UK, US, European and Far East sectors, the fixed interest sector including government

Essential CELEBRATING ALL THAT MAKES OUR COUNTY GREAT

SUFFOLK

YOUR ESSENTIAL SUFFOLK READ Now you can enjoy even more from your Essential magazine

Whether you have the capital available to maximise your ISA allowance as a one off or you have regular monthly savings to invest, placing this into a Cash or Stocks and Shares ISA can result in a sizeable tax free amount after a few years.

Remember if you don’t use your ISA allowance you lose it.

You have until 5th April 2014 to use the current allowance and then from 6th April the new ISA allowance begins.

We provide independent financial advice on an hourly rate basis, if you are interested in our financial advice services and how we may be able to assist you please do contact me. Email james.wright@scruttonbland.co.uk or phone 01206 838400.

Scrutton Bland Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

EXPLORE THE WEBSITE If you love Suffolk, like we do, why not take a look at our website.

You’ll find even more news from around the county, regularly updated What’s On listings for the next three months, printable maps for our Pub Dog Walks and much more. www.essentialsuffolk.com PUBLICISE YOUR EVENT Are you organising an event in Suffolk? Make sure you submit your free listing on our website. Furthermore why not enhance your event listing, making it stand out from the rest of the crowd, for just £10? www.essentialsuffolk.com/whats-on-in-suffolk SUBSCRIBE Would you like to receive your own regular copy of Essential Suffolk?

Receive 12 issues for just £24, including postage, straight to your door www.essentialsuffolk.com/essential-shop BUY SINGLE ISSUES If you’d like to order a single copy of any issue (including back copies) simply order online and we’ll post to you by return, First Class Single Issue £2.95 including postage www.essentialsuffolk.com/essential-shop BUY PHOTOGRAPHS Have we met you at a social event and taken your photograph?

Now you can buy your very own digital copy to keep as a memento of the occasion. See all of the pictures of our Essential Faces on line and order your photographs today £5 each or four for £15 www.essentialsuffolk.com/social-pages Follow us on Twitter @EssentialSFK

EssentialSUFFOLK

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APRIL 2014

Since the 1960s the name of Talbooth Catering has been synonymous with the highest quality outside catering in the county. 2014 sees a change of name to Milsom Catering. Essential Suffolk spoke to Paul Milsom about the development Where do you cater?

We cater throughout East Anglia predominantly in Essex and Suffolk but sometimes into Cambridge and Norfolk.

Most of the work is actually in people’s private homes for weddings, birthdays and anniversaries. We do all the catering at the wonderful Hengrave Hall which is a fantastic wedding venue. We also cater at the Suffolk Show, Tendring Hundred Show and Suffolk Polo. But there are always new events and this year we have been brought in to look after the Marmalade Ball at Thorpeness which we are really looking forward to putting on a great performance for them.

Paul Milsom – Managing Director of Milsom Hotels & Restuarants

How did the outside catering business start?

My father started the business in the 1960s when many of our restaurant customers started asking us to do their private events.

Why are you changing the name?

As we have grown our restaurant business over the years the Milsom name has become the main one that our customers use and recognise. Bringing our outside catering name into line is good for brand recognition.

What changes will the customer see?

None in terms of quality of what we do just in terms of the logo and print media.

What type of events do you cater?

All kinds of events, that’s the exciting thing, we never quite know what we are going to be asked to do next whether it’s a wedding, big birthday party, anniversary or car launch, you name it we have done it.

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What is the main reason people choose Milsom Catering?

First and foremost the quality of the food and the service. We have a really experienced team who are able to deliver a consistent performance time and time again. They are always prepared to go the extra mile to get the job done properly and the size of our business means our clients know that we will never let them down.

How far in advance do you like to work ahead of an event?

Different events have different lead times, weddings are often booked up to two years in advance, but a lot of our business with fairly short three to four month lead times. Then of course there are the sad occasions like funerals where we are called upon to put on a top performance within a week.

Can the client choose their own bespoke menu?

The menus that we offer are extensive but very often the client has specific ideas of what they want and we are always tailoring our menus to suit the type and style of party being planned.

What advice are you able to give customers when it comes to choosing their menu?

Generally keeping it reasonably simple remembering that when you are putting on a party it is not like going out to dinner in a restaurant for four people.

You need to have the big picture in mind because a great party is the sum of a whole number and series of factors.

The food it always the key ingredient but if you try to be too clever with it, it can backfire.

Business Profile | Milsom Catering

the beginning of the summer we recruit between 30 and 60 people to work over the season from May to October.

The team is very experienced and we have core members that have been with us for many years.

Ian Rhodes – Le Talbooth General Manager and Executive Chef,

How big is the Milsom Catering team?

In the height of the season we might have between 50 and 100 people working in this area of our business.

The team flexes on a day to day basis, we probably have about 10 full time members of the team and 20 regular year round part time staff and then at

Who leads the team?

The Le Talbooth General Manager and Executive Chef, Ian Rhodes, is ultimately responsible for Milsom Catering but he then has a catering manager Richard Muldowney and his assistants, Geraldine Wright and Barnaby Steers, in the kitchen we have that Catering Head Chef, Geoff Johnson and the Hengrave Hall Head Chef Aaron Skerritt and their brigade.

In the office we have team of three, led by Alexandra Carr, who process the bookings.

Do you have a favourite event that you have catered that sticks out in your mind?

We do so many different events and they all exciting in their own way, the Tendring Show two years ago, our first

year of doing it, sticks out because we had to buy all the staff wellingtons and despite the weather, we put on a fantastic performance which was really appreciated by the President and Members who had had a difficult day, having had to shut the show early to the general public but at least they all had a good lunch, I just regret we missed the photo opportunity of having all 40 of our staff, chefs included, outside the tent with their wellington boots on.

In terms of a private party one of our clients had a James Bond themed birthday party which was one of the best parties we have ever done and my own 50th wasn’t too bad.

What is the one essential piece of advice you would give to someone considering employing a private caterer?

As with all things in this world what you pay for is what you get. On paper 10 different caterers could give you the same menu at a range of prices, but on the day in question the performance and quality could vary greatly.

01206 323150 | www.milsomhotels.com/milsomcatering

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APRIL 2014

PUB WALKS with Darcy For this month’s pub walk we return to the pretty village of Pettistree near Woodbridge visiting the dog friendly and aptly named Greyhound Inn As much as we love long walks with Darcy it is always good to have a choice of interesting shorter ones available and this walk starting in Pettristree has quickly become a firm favourite.

At just over two miles in length, and easily completed in around 45 minutes, this walk is deceptive in that you feel like you cover a lot more ground than you actually do. Not because it is arduous, it isn’t, but because of the varied views encountered and different paths, track and quiet roads walked. I think the fact that the walk also briefly visits the nearby Wickham Market also makes it seem psychologically further than it actually is.

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The walk initially heads out of the village passing the impressive church of St Peter and St. Paul, famed for its medieval stained glass windows, before heading across open fields and quiet tracks toward Wickham Market. A short section of quiet road walking brings you to the war memorial in town before heading back to Pettistree once again via open fields.

If you want to walk in this area but fancy a longer route this walk also dovetails beautifully with our previous route from Pettistree the details of which can be found on our website www.essentialsuffolk.com/dog-walks

CO-OP 8 WICKHAM MARKET

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The Rosary

THE WALK Distance: Approx. 2½ miles Time: Approx. 45 minutes Terrain: Easy paths and tracks. A short stretch of road walking.

One busy road to cross Stops: The Greyhound Inn, Pettistree Ordinance Survey Map: 212 Start Point OS reference: 298 548 As always please keep your dog under close control and follow any advisory signs. For a printable version of this and previous walks go to: www.essentialsuffolk.com/dog-walks where you will also find more pictures of each walk route.

1. From the Greyhound car park turn right and walk toward the church.

2. At the church turn right at the footpath (FP) sign, through the gate and pass through the churchyard. Head for the wooden gate directly ahead. Once through the gate keep to the right of the field heading for -and passing through- a metal ‘pull apart’ gate. Pass through the next field and one more metal gate. Once through this gate cross the field ahead aiming for steps up a small bank. This bank is the where the path meets the road which can be busy.

3. Cross the road and over the stile opposite. It is a low one and Darcy climbed it easily. Once over the stile cross the field heading for a wooden gate.

4. At the wooden gate turn left and walk down the track passing a house – The Rosery. Continue straight ahead. As you follow the path you will see a FP sign ahead,(by two telegraph poles that are next to each other) this marks where the path meets another, but much quieter, road.

5. Cross over this road and follow track opposite. After a short walk the path turns left by a telegraph pole and emerges at a group of houses.

6. At the last house –Whistlecraft – turn left and walk along a quiet stretch of road. After approx. 400 yds the road bears to the left and then after another 100yds you will reach a junction.

7. At the junction turn right and then after approx. 75 yds pass behind the war memorial on your left meeting the main road.

8. At the main road turn left and walk to the Co-op.

9. Immediately after the Co-op follow the Restricted Byway sign on your right and follow the path beside the field. After a short while ahead you will see a white post which marks where the path meets the road.

10. At the road turn left and follow it until you reach the Greyhound*. *NB: If you looking for a longer walk this guide can easily be added to our Pettistree Route 1 walk. Having turned left at point 10 you will see the FP sign and village hall (mentioned in point 2 of route 1) appears on your right. This time the FP sign before the hall. Both walks combined would be just over 5.7 miles and we estimate slightly over 2 hours.

Stewart & Louise McKenzie welcome you to the Greyhound Inn Pettistree One of the oldest pubs in Suffolk in a beautiful village setting. Chef Louise handcrafts the seasonal menu using locally sourced ingredients. Stewart serves a selection of local ales and an expanding array of single malt whiskys.

Woodburning stove and board games in the bar.

Water bowls and biscuits provided for friendly dogs!

The Street Pettistree Nr Wickham Market Suffolk IP13 0HP

01728746451 www.greyhoundinnpettistree.co.uk

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WHERE FRIENDS

meet and eat Tried and trusted, The Fountain at Tuddenham has a fine reputation for very good food. Lesley Rawlinson reports

J

ust recently a friend asked me to recommend a pub with good food near Ipswich. I happily reeled off a number of favourite options that fitted the bill (incidentally you’ll find most of them listed in our Food Gallery pages). Among my recommendations was the Fountain, just a couple of miles out of town in the village of Tuddenham St Martin and it struck me that the request had been almost word for word that of the signage that adorns the front of this characterful bistro style restaurant – ‘a pub with great food’.

A bold move, one might think, to be so blatantly confident about the quality of one’s wares but I’m more of the mind that if you can’t be sure that you’ll always ‘deliver’ you probably shouldn’t be in business. Of course proprietors Scott Davidson and Charles Lewis know a thing or two about running successful restaurants. They’ve been pleasing diners at the Fountain for eight years now but spent the previous eight years at what, back then, was one of my (and my husband’s) very favourite restaurants – Scott’s – which was in Ipswich town centre.

It’s a confident stance too when a kitchen if in full view of the paying public. Although the majority of the tables at the Fountain are set out in the cosy and suitably rustic restaurant there are a few tables near the bar where Head Chef, Matt McCarthy and his team can be seen in full swing. We had booked our

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Dining Review | The Fountain

table for 6.30pm and by 7pm the restaurant was steadily filling with barely a table available an hour later. It’s clear that the opportunity to enjoy the formalities of a restaurant experience but in the relaxed yet mature atmosphere of a pub is a combination that keeps happy customers coming back time and time again. Of course good service will always keep clients loyal and Charles & Scott have a team that make for an effortless visit.

to another table of guests that the Scotch egg starter was indeed vegetarian as the usual sausage outer casing had been replaced with a cheesey crumb.

Well I was intrigued. Despite having been vegetarian for some time one of my nieces was recently wooed back to the world of meat eating by the lure of a humble Scotch egg and to discover a version that might fulfil her palate more pleasingly was an opportunity not to be missed. Served with homemade coleslaw and toast soldiers the sausage wasn’t missed for a moment and in fact I think I may have preferred this new twist to the traditional as I often find the meat and egg combination too filling, unless served as a main course.

With our drinks order taken on arrival we settled down with the menu and a wry smile grew across my husband’s face. Back in the ‘Scott’s’ days it was one of the first restaurants to reinstate the lamb shank as a restaurant winter staple.

As far as Mr R is concerned there’s only one way lamb shank should be eaten and that’s with it virtually falling from the bone and he knew he wouldn’t be disappointed. Instead of the traditional red wine gravy and winter vegetables the lamb was to be served Moroccan style on roasted vegetable giant couscous so all that remained was to choose a starter that would complement. Twice baked Cromer crab soufflé with crayfish sauce was selected and both dishes were winners. The light soufflé was packed with rich seafood flavours and paired beautifully with the hearty spiced lamb.

I chose to follow with one of the fish dishes from the Specials board.

My roasted whole Seabass with leek and fennel stuffing was accompanied by sweet potato fries – a rather sophisticated take on fish and chips I suppose. The robust flavours of the stuffing were great bedfellows and my fish perfectly cooked, flaking from the bone with ease. I noticed that Blakeney mussels were also on the board, a mental note for another time as they were available as either a starter/light lunch or main course and frankly a favourite for us any time of day!

My choices took a slightly more circuitous route. I’d overheard the reassurances of one of the waiting staff

Although I’m determined to lose a few pounds before the better weather arrives I wasn’t going to pass up the baked dark

chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream for dessert. Adrian decided that if he ordered a couple of favourite ice cream flavours for his pud (ginger and chocolate) he might share with me and pinch a little from my plate to go with them, which of course he did. How the waiting staff can spend a service inhaling the chocolatey aroma that rises from this heavenly dish without diverting to the staff room to indulge in it themselves I don’t know because one whiff and I wouldn’t be able to resist.

There’s a weight and a richness to the flavour that balances with the light fondant and is nothing less than divine.

Coffees perfectly rounded off our evening as our thoughts turned to the not far off ‘turning forward’ of the clocks. There’s a large covered patio at the Fountain and a good sized garden beyond and with plenty of patio heaters in this sheltered spot it won’t be too long before the weather is fine enough to enjoy the outside space again as the evenings grow lighter as well as an al fresco lunch, or two!

INFORMATION Set price menu available 7 days a week Two courses £14.50 Three courses £17.50 The Fountain, The Street, Tuddenham Ipswich, Suffolk, IP6 9BT 01473 785377 www.tuddenhamfountain.co.uk

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Food provenance and sustainability are both key guiding principles at The Anchor at Walberswick. This pan fried wild sea bass is a popular dish with diners and holds true to these passions

PAN FRIED WILD SEA BASS

The Walberswick Anchor’s Head Chef, Andrew Storer, is originally from Suffolk but moved to London at 18 years old and worked there for 17 years.

After working in various 5 star hotels, he started working with Michael and Albert Roux. At the age of 25 he was made Head Chef at their flagship contract-catering site for Goldman

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Sachs Investment Bank, in charge of fine dining for the executives and their clients in the bank’s private restaurant.

From there he worked as Head Chef in various establishments such as The Groucho Club and the world famous Naval and Military Club, Piccadilly colloquially known as the In & Out Club. ‰

Recipe | The Anchor Andrew’s cooking style is modern British/French but also has a strong Italian influence partly due to the magical influence of his Italian wife Stephanie. He says, “I love working with fresh pasta, making ravioli and tortellini and the simplicity of Italian food.”

He also has a passion for creating fish

‘tapas’ platters. “They are hard to advertise” Andrews comments “because I will make them out of whatever the best ingredients I have at the time are so they can change from day to day but they are proving very popular with visitors.” Andrew is very excited to be back home in Suffolk as he believes it

has some of best local produce in the country. “It’s all on our doorstep in Walberswick; Blythburgh Pork, Sutton Hoo poultry, great venison and of course the sea is just a stone’s throw away from The Anchor!”

Inspiration indeed.

Pan fried wild sea bass, chorizo & butterbean stew, clam vinaigrette INGREDIENTS Serves 4

METHOD

4 x 180g/200g wild sea bass fillet steaks 250g curly kale (with the stems taken out and washed)

Clam Vinaigrette 1. Wash the clams under running water.

2. Place a large pot on the stove and get it hot. Once hot throw in the clams, bayleaf and white wine and cover with lid. When all the clams have opened drain them through a colander retaining the cooking liquor (for the chorizo stew).

3. De-shell clams and throw shells, any clams still closed discard.

4. Place the clams into a bowl with the finely diced shallot, capers, chopped parsley, diced tomato and anchovy’s. Squeeze the lemon and add zest followed by the Chardonnay vinegar and olive oil. Mix and incorporate the ingredients together to form a salsa like dressing. Keep to one side for assembly.

For the clam vinaigrette: 10g butter 500g fresh clams 200ml dry white wine 1 bay leaf 1 shallot finely diced 100g flat leaf parsley chopped 20g fine Lilliput capers 1 lemon (zest and juice) 1 plum tomato peeled, deseeded and cut into concasse (neat squares) 2 marinated white anchovies finely chopped 15ml of Chardonnay vinegar 80ml of good quality olive oil For the chorizo and butterbean stew: 1/2 onion finely diced 1 courgette 1cm diced 1 red pepper finely diced 200g cooked butterbeans 2 cloves of garlic finely chopped 500ml tomato juice The cooking liquor from the clams 200g diced chorizo sausage 1 sprig rosemary 1 bay leaf Pinch of paprika and seasoning (salt and pepper)

Chorizo and Butterbean Stew 1. Heat a pan and add the diced chorizo.

As the chorizo sautés it will release fat; when there is enough fat add the courgettes, garlic, onion and pepper.

Season lightly add rosemary, bayleaf and paprika and gently fry for a few more minutes.

2. Add the clam’s cooking liquor and reduce by a third.

3. Add the tomato juice and reduce by half again.

4. Add the cooked butterbeans and leave to cook for a further 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep warm for assembly.

For the Kale Heat a pan with a little water and butter.

Add the Kale, season and cover with a lid.

Cook for 4 – 5 minutes until soft.

Keep warm for assembly.

For the Bass – cooking the bass 1. Heat a pan and add a little oil.

2. Season the fish and add to pan on a gentle heat most of the cooking will be done skin side down. Fry for 4 minutes until the edges are golden brown.

Carefully turn the fish over leaving the skin intact, add a little butter and fry gently for a further 2 minutes. Take out of the pan and rest for 2 minutes.

You are now ready to assemble.

Assembly: In the middle of the plate make a neat mound of the chorizo and butterbean stew. On top of that add the Curly Kale follow by the beautifully cooked crispy skinned seabass. Finally liberally drizzle the clam vinaigrette over and around.

CHEF’S TIP The cooking of the bass is the most important thing in this simple dish. I wrote this recipe in easy steps. If you follow the steps in order you are left with only seabass to cook and give your undivided attention ensuring you eat a piece of perfectly cooked moist fish.

THE ANCHOR walberswick

Daily specials, fresh fish, local seasonal produce.

Over 50 imported beers, 3 cask ales, 10 keg beers.

The Anchor Village Bakery.

Ten cosy bedrooms.

Wood fired oven in the garden for home-made pizzas and smoking meat & fish.

Flint barn for private hire.

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The Middleton Bell

Ufford Park

The Dog

Set in the beautiful village of Middleton the award winning Value Pub of the Year 2012 Bell Inn offers top quality food using the best local produce at prices that ensure you will want to return again and again. Dine in the garden, traditional bar area or the beamed restaurant and enjoy home cooked food and ales directly from the cask. The Bell is the perfect venue to meet friends and family.

The Park Restaurant, situated at Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf and Spa is set in 120 acres of historic parklands. We offer a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere and have a seasonally-changing menu that offers lots of locally produced food and fresh vegetables.

In the dry and warmer months we have a large terrace for you to enjoy your food with picturesque views across the Deben Valley.

All party sizes are accommodated.

Open to all, non-members welcome.

Award Winning Public House, Restaurant & Bar. Our menu constantly evolves to reflect the changing seasons and celebrates the very best of locally sourced produce. Our ‘Specials Board’ is inspired by the prime seasonal ingredients available each day and the entire menu is complemented by a carefully selected wine list. New guest beer every week. Real ales and rustic ciders. Save 20% off food orders everyday between 5.30 and 6.30pm. Set price menu one course £7.50, two courses £10 or three courses £13.

Open: Bar: Monday 6pm to 11pm, Tuesday to Friday – Lunch, 12 noon to 3pm, Evening, 6pm to 11pm, Saturday: 12 noon – midnight. Sunday: 12 noon to 10.30pm Food served Tuesday – Sunday Booking advisable please call for details

Open: Monday to Sunday 6:30pm to 9:30pm Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW

Open: Monday – Closed. Tuesday to Thursday 12 noon to 2.30pm and 5.30 to 11pm. Friday, Saturday and Sunday – open all day. Food Served 12 noon to 2pm (2.30 Sunday) and 5.30pm to 9pm daily The Green, Grundisburgh, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 6TA

01473 230293

0844 847 9467 enquiries@uffordpark.co.uk www.uffordpark.co.uk

The Galley

Fynn Valley

The Peacock Inn

The Galley in Woodbridge is a family run restaurant offering vibrant and exciting menus, using fresh local produce, in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. For those wishing to hold a celebration or business lunch, there are private dining rooms available. New spring menu – Light lunch, two course £11, three course £14. The team at the Galley are introducing a new special event on the second Sunday of every month – an extra delicious Sunday Roast! Next available on 6 April and 11 May!

Open to everyone, not just golfers, we are the place you bring your family and friends for a wide range of tempting meals prepared by our talented chefs. Meals can be eaten in our cosy Courtyard Bar, The Terrace overlooking the golf course or utilising the entire spacious Valley Room on busier occasions. Full details of our menus and offers can be found on our website.

Situated opposite the picturesque bridge in the village of Chelsworth, The Peacock is a traditional half-timbered 14th century Inn, with cosy log fires and three rosette silver accommodation. Perfectly positioned for touring, walking and cycling in the beautiful surrounding countryside. Offering a selection of real ales and seasonal homemade food.

Try our Sunday roast in a relaxed atmosphere, bookings advisable, dogs welcome.

The Street, Middleton, Suffolk, IP17 3NN

Open: 7 days a week, lunch 12noon to 2.15pm, dinner 6pm to late (early bird diner 6 – 7pm) 21 Market Hill, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4LX 01394 380055 www.thegalley.uk.com

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Open: Open lunch and evening except closed all day Monday and Sunday evenings.

Fynn Valley Golf Club, Witnesham, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP6 9JA 01473 785202 restaurant@fynn-valley.co.uk www.fynn-valley.co.uk

01473 735267 www.grundisburghdog.co.uk

Open: Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 3pm and 6pm to 11pm. Sunday, 12pm to 6pm (Food served 12pm to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9pm daily) 37 The Street, Chelsworth, Suffolk, IP7 7HU 01449 743952 wilcri@aol.com www.thepeacockchelsworth.com

Food Gallery

Butt & Oyster

The Fountain

The Angel

The Butt & Oyster is one of the best known public houses in Suffolk renowned for its good beer, good food and great views.

As you eat watch the changing tides on traditional timeless shores. Understand an artist’s inspiration with Thames barges, swans and the river, enjoying the finest Suffolk ales whilst being tempted by the wonderful aromas which welcome you. Food offers are available throughout the week.

See our website for details.

Located in the lovely old village of Tuddenham St Martin, three miles north of Ipswich, informal bistro style restaurant set in an oldie worldy 16th century country pub with great food, great service and great value.

Parties welcome from two to 45 people. Full A La Carte menu and a set two or three course menu. Current specials always included on the website. Covered heated patio and spacious beer garden.

Using the best local ingredients from the excellent producers on our doorstep, we prepare great tasty food here on the premises and aim sell it to you at a reasonable price. Mon-Fri we offer a choice of tasty home cooked lunches for £5, in addition to our full menu. Sunday roasts and our homemade burgers are a speciality. We are equally proud of our drinks offering with 6 real ales (listed in the 2013 CAMRA Good Beer Guide), draught Suffolk Cyder & lagers, and East Anglia’s widest range of spirits with over 220 gins.

Open: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 11pm.

Sunday, 12pm to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week

Open: Monday to Friday, 12 noon to 2pm and 6pm to 9pm. Saturday, 12 noon to 2pm and 6pm to 9.30pm. Sunday, 12pm to 7pm

Open: Monday to Friday, 12 noon to 3pm and 5pm to close. Open all day at weekends

Pin Mill, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 1JW

The Street, Tuddenham St. Martin, IP6 9BT

Theatre Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4NE (Just off the Market Hill)

01473 780764 buttandoyster@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

01473 785377 fountainpub@btconnect.com www.tuddenhamfountain.co.uk

01473 230293 mail@theangelwoodbridge.co.uk www.theangelwoodbridge.co.uk

The Coach & Horses

Arlingtons

The Plough & Sail

The Coach & Horses located just outside of Woodbridge, has extremely good access to the A12 with ample parking. Originally a staging inn or coach house, it’s historical role is equally well served today providing great family food. We offer a great combination of quality, value and atmosphere that the Deben Inns are renowned for. Food offers are available throughout the week. See our website for details.

Buzzing brasserie style restaurant with café bar set within the building converted from the Arlingtons Ballroom. The perfect venue to catch up with friends, talk business, celebrate special occasions. French style menu served in typical informal Brasserie manner offering a large selection of freshly prepared Suffolk reared meat dishes and vegetarian choices as well as fish & shellfish from sustainable sources. Plus takeaway deli, breakfast from 8am, light meals and homemade cakes throughout the day.

After two years at the helm of the Plough & Sail located at Snape Maltings, local twins Alex and Oliver Burnside’s passion for creating a quality dining pub serving a seasonallychanging menu is ever stronger. Enjoy ‘traditional’ pub food for lunch and in the evenings a modern ‘restaurant style’ menu alongside an extensive selection of ales, spirits and quality wines. Pre and post concert dining is available and booking is advised.

“We look forward to welcoming you soon.”

Open: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 11pm Sunday, 12 noon to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week

Open: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 10pm

Open: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 11pm Sunday, 12 noon to 10.30pm

Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1PD

13 Museum Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 1HE

Snape Maltings, Snape Bridge, Snape, Saxmundham, Suffolk, IP17 1SR

01394 384851 coachandhorses@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

01473 230293 enquiries@arlingtonsbrasserie.co.uk www.arlingtonsbrasserie.co.uk

01728 688413 alexburnside@hotmail.com www.theploughandsailsnape.co.uk

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Sibton White Horse

The White Horse

The Bildeston Crown

A 16th century unspoilt destination inn set in the heart of the Suffolk countryside. Now into our ninth year and our craving for providing a memorable dining experience shows no waning. Relax with a pint of local cask beer or a glass of wine beside the log burner and absorb the atmosphere and charm of such a wonderful building. Indulge in our delicious thoughtfully crafted menu.

Built upon local, seasonal ingredients we offer an easy and unpretentious service, grounded in the tradition of the English inn.

You’re always sure of a warm welcome at The White Horse. A fabulous little spot in Old Felixstowe, where you’ll find a range of fine guest ales and delicious personally selected wines.

The menu is made up of fresh, locally sourced produce, including daily seasonal specials and a wonderful traditional Sunday roast – all prepared by a talented team of AA Rosette winning chefs.

Please see website for details of forthcoming events, including the next beer festival to be held in the beautifully converted stable block.

In the heart of Suffolk’s picturesque countryside, The Bildeston Crown is a 15th century coaching inn, imaginatively renovated and refurbished in 2003.Their passion for good food means quality produce, sourced locally whenever possible, and used when in season to get the best results. ‘Ingrams’ is the 30-seater dining room which showcases the creativity of Head Chef Zack Deakins while ‘Classics’ is the more casual dining option bringing traditional British dishes up to date with modern twists.

Open: 12pm to 2.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 6.30pm to 11pm. Monday to Saturday 12pm to 3pm, 6.45pm to 10.30pm Sunday

Open: All day every day. Food served 12 until 2.30pm weekdays and all day at weekends

Halesworth Road, Sibton, Nr. Saxmundham, Suffolk, IP17 2JJ

TThe White Horse, Church Road, Old Felixstowe, Suffolk, IP11 9NF

Open: Food service is from 12 noon to 2.45pm and 7pm to 9.45pm daily (9pm Sundays) High Street, Bildeston, Suffolk, IP7 7EB

01728 660337 info@sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk www.sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk

01394 277496 bookings@thewhitehorse-felixstowe.co.uk www.thewhitehorse-felixstowe.co.uk

01449 740510 reception@thebildestoncrown.co.uk www.thebildestoncrown.com

Seckford Hall

The Maybush

Wilford Bridge

1530 at Seckford Hall Hotel is Suffolk’s newest fine dining destination. Ideal for business and pleasure the talented team of chefs turn local produce into mouth-watering dishes, with seasonally changing menus.

Relaxed, stylish and comfortable, full of character but unpretentious the new classical design has stunning statement lighting and an eclectic mix of colours, mirroring the Tudor charm of the hotel. See what everyone is talking about and experience the tradition, history and good taste at 1530.

The Maybush Inn sits on the banks of the Deben in Waldringfield. The busy riverside pub and restaurant affords panoramic views across the river and beyond. The Maybush has become famous for its excellent food offering with a wide range and varied menu including local game, meats and fresh seafood.

Vegetarian options and children’s menu available. Food offers are available throughout the week. See our website for details.

Think of fine food, the best in local ales, a traditional ambience all set in a location surrounded by history and exceptional walks and you have The Wilford Bridge. Our menu reflects the seasonal availability of the finest local produce, specialising in the very best seafood, tender steaks cooked to perfection and unbeatable classics such as the renowned ‘Revetts’ Sausages and mash.

Food offers are available throughout the week – See our website for details.

Open: Lunch and dinner 7 days a week Light snacks served all day

Open: Monday to Saturday 11am to 11pm Sunday 12 noon to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week

Open: Monday to Saturday 11am to 11pm Sunday 12 noon to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week

Seckford Hall Hotel, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 6NU

Cliff Road, Waldringfield, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4QL

Wilford Bridge Rd, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 2PA

01394 385678 reception@seckford.co.uk www.seckford.co.uk

01473 736215 maybush@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

01394 386141 wilfordbridge@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

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Wine

FROM ORGANIC TO OUTLANDISH Rob Chase

Last month, colleague Alastair Marshall and I packed our taste buds and palates and headed for Montpelier, to what has become arguably the most relevant and – for us – the most accessible wine tasting event of our buying year. Millésime Bio consists of three immense halls, each the size of a football field plus running track, into which – for three days every January – wine-makers decant themselves and their wares for the likes of Adnams to pronounce on their latest vintages. When this ‘world’ organic fair started out in 1993, it was held in a relatively modest hall and consisted of a handful of earnest, sandal-shod enthusiasts drawn mostly from the Languedoc. This January, there were more than 800 producers from a dozen countries, each showing at least half a dozen wines (a lot of wine in anybody’s glass), with barely an exposed toe in sight. We tasted wines from Northern and Southern Hemispheres, which included estates from most wineproducing countries in both western and Eastern Europe. Thus has grown the organic wine movement in two decades, with an explosion of interest in simultaneously saving the planet, preserving the environment and making world-class wines. A movement no longer regarded as fringe or of minor appeal but very much a force to be reckoned with: these growers make wines that are every bit as good as – and invariably more rewarding to drink than – their industrial-sized, megaproduction counterparts churning out plonk for the supermarkets. It is therefore satisfying to know that Adnams Wines embraced this ‘movement’ in its early, developmental years and that we continue to make organic wine an important part of our buying philosophy.

A case of à chacun son goût.

Exponentially of course, the space required at Millésime Bio has also blossomed. There is now an immense fourth hall given over entirely to keeping body and soul together. When quizzed, the master of ceremonies suggested there were enough tables and chairs for 2,500 guests to be fed and watered at any given time. With wall-to-wall staff in attendance and four serving ‘stations’ in operation, we enjoyed the most delicious and welcome buffet lunch. The logistics of such mass catering are mind-blowing but the French conduct this sort of event magnificently. Their standards of food and catering, I can happily report, have never been better. I always maintain that a taster can’t work productively on an empty stomach.

Whilst enjoying a few days skiing in Italy earlier this year, I discovered the joys of wines from the Valle d'Aosta. This might sound like a contradiction in terms but in amongst the riff-raff of bottles opened and drunk (off-piste I might add), it became obvious that what the Italians produce best in this most northerly, wine-growing Alpine region are varietal wines which have a quaffable level of alcohol and are imbued with a delightful purity and concentration of flavours. The vines planted here are well suited to this cooler climate, so rather than being served under-ripe and stalky Cabernets and Merlots, we were treated instead to flavour-infused Nebbiolo and wonderfully appetising, mouthwateringly spicy Gamay. Of the whites, local hero Petite Arvine knocked many a cool clime Sauvignon Blanc into a cocked ice-bucket, their Chardonnay was by no means shabby and even a bizarre little number by the name of Blanc de Morgex (aka Prié Blanc), if a little too crisp for the redoubtable palate of Mrs

Chase, underlined to me the growing importance of high altitude vineyards (up to 1200m for Morgex). This is amongst Europe’s highest, and it is these cool-climate wine-growing regions we must eventually embrace if we are to escape the rowdy, fruity, high-alcohol wines from the traditional but increasingly warm appellations.

None of this will be of the slightest interest to Arnold, proprietor of an eponymous wine shop in Cervinia on the Italian/Swiss border. Arnold’s Wines is stocked to the gunnels with Pétrus, First Growth clarets (Mouton Rothschild back to '61), Madeira back to the 1800s – in short, practically everything you have ever heard – or dreamt – of drinking, all available in several vintages and nearly all of it in magnums.

Although the credit card twitched nervously from the moment we entered, I was reminded of a court case in America earlier this year, where a lessthan-scrupulous fellow by the name of Rudy Kurniawan was banged to rights (for 30 years) for passing off several million pounds’ worth of fake wines.

Of course Arnold’s wines have impeccable provenance (probably a Swiss collector) – I am sure his clientele of burly, no-nonsense, cognoscenti from Russia and the Baltic states would take a dim view were it to be proved otherwise.

But just how well these liquid treasures might have been sourced and stored did ring slight alarm bells for one wine merchant, who felt this snow-clad Aladdin’s Cave was almost too good to be true. Caveat emptor at all times; if it looks too good to be true, it undoubtedly is and certainly won’t taste half as good as the label might suggest.

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Profile | Christies Care

APRIL 2014

EXPERTS SHINE A LIGHT ON STROKE CARE AND SUPPORTING SERVICES AVAILABLE IN SUFFOLK With around 152,000 strokes happening every year in the UK, someone is suffering one of these life-changing events every five minutes! As part of the government-backed Good Care Week, Christies Care, one of the UK’s leading home care specialists, is running a free, all-day event on Wednesday 16th April at their training centre in Saxmundham to explain the care options available in the region with a particular focus on caring for those who have suffered a stroke.

There will also be the chance to hear from Jan Ballard, who suffered a stroke in 2010 and is active in raising awareness about the difficulty of recovery and the huge benefit of psychological therapy.

She says; “I know how hard recovering from a stroke is – people see rapid physical improvement but don’t realise the residual damage that’s behind the façade,” says Jan. “It takes time and effort to recover properly, physically and emotionally. That’s why I am taking part in the Good Care Day. It provides the sort of advice I could really have done with in the aftermath of my own stroke.”

The event aims to answer the many questions from those who may need care, their relatives or those associated with the caring profession. Expert speakers will explore fundamental issues from stroke awareness, to power of attorney, caring for someone who has suffered a stroke and the mobility options available to help them get moving again. The range of speakers includes experts from Age UK, Christies Care, The Hearing Care Centre, Co-Op Pharmacy and Gotelee.

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The Hearing Care Centre are bringing their mobile hearing unit so they can offer free hearing tests on the day and there will be a range of information and a variety of relevant stands for attendees to browse.

The day will be of value to people looking into the care options and services

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You can book your place by emailing lin.barnes@christiescare.com or calling 01728 605 013.

The event will be held at: Training Centre, Street Farm Road, Saxmundham, IP17 1AL on Wednesday 16th April.

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At a weekly cost in the region of £600 to £700, live-in care can work out cheaper than most good care homes.

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Christies Care director Lin Barnes said: “Everyone is welcome and visitors can attend for the whole day, chat to experts over lunch or just drop in for an hour or so. Attendance to this event is free of charge but those who wish to attend are required to reserve their place before 10th April, as spaces are limited.”

Preserve your social routine, or maintain regular outings, one-to-one care can help you do this.

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available in the area to make life easier.

It is based on the Christies Care ethos that 24/7 live-in care is an affordable alternative to residential care homes.

The event will provide an insight into the training, recruitment and everyday activities undertaken by the carers who care for people in their own homes.

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Health

DON’T PUT YOUR LIFE ON PAUSE WAITING FOR VARICOSE VEIN TREATMENT As we are now offically into Spring, it’s a good time to talk to Mr Isam Osman, senior Consultant in Vascular Surgery.

Although the usual British climate always leaves us guessing what to wear, if you suffer from varicose veins of any degree you may be hesitant to reach for shorts or skirts on warmer days. Mr Osman explains there are however several ways to safely and effectively treat the condition, and not just for cosmetic reasons, with a range of options readily available in our area.

Mr Osman has had a private practice at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital since 1996 in addtion to his NHS base at Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust. He qualified in Khartoum in 1987 and came to the UK in 1990. He undertook his surgical training at the University Hospital Birmingham becoming a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in 1992 and worked in the area for several years.

adults suffer. They most commonly develop in the legs and can run in families. They are worse during or after pregnancy. Whilst they can be uncomfortable and unsightly, varicose veins don’t usually cause any serious health problems, but symptoms such as aching, heavy uncomfortable legs, cramps, itching and swollen feet and ankles can become troublesome. In more severe cases they can cause skin discolouration and sometimes ulcers.”

Varicose veins develop when the small valves inside the veins stop working properly. In a healthy vein, blood flows smoothly to the heart. The blood is prevented from flowing backwards by a series of tiny valves that open and close to let blood through. If the valves weaken or are damaged, the blood can flow backwards and pool in the veins. This causes the veins to weaken under the pressure and become enlarged and bulging in appearance – what we call varicose veins.

“I was then very lucky to be appointed as a Consultant General and Vascular Surgeon in 1996 at the Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust and moved to Suffolk,” explained Mr Osman. “At the time I was one of the youngest Consultant Vascular Surgeons in the UK, something I was extremely proud of.” A vastly experienced surgeon, he has also spent a great deal of his time as a surgical educator serving as Chairman of the Regional Training Committee in Surgery and the Deanery Advisor for the Royal College of Surgeons of England in East Anglia previously.

There is little evidence to suggest you can stop varicose veins getting worse, or completely prevent new ones developing.

However, there are ways to ease symptoms of existing varicose veins, such as: wearing support stockings, elevating the legs when resting, avoiding standing or sitting still for long periods, and taking regular breaks throughout the day. Exercising regularly can also improve circulation and help maintain a healthy weight.

“Varicose veins are a very common condition which, if left untreated, can be painful and cause distress.” explains Mr Osman. “Women tend to be more affected than men and overall 3 in 10

Sclerotherapy Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical treatment carried out in the Outpatients department offering a “walk in, walk out” treatment option for varicose veins with

Mr Isam Osman

no hospital stay required. It involves injecting a chemical into the vein to close it completely, so that it no longer carries blood. This treatment can only be used on smaller veins. Following sclerotherapy, the varicose vein should begin to fade after a few weeks as stronger veins take over the role of the damaged vein, which is no longer filled with blood. Treatment may be required more than once before the vein fades.

Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) Another non-surgical procedure is EVLT. The vein is closed by a laser heating it from the inside through a small incision. This is done with a local anaesthetic, which means the area to be treated is numbed. After a brief stay in the Outpatients department for one or two hours following the procedure it is possible to leave the hospital and support bandages are required to be worn for seven to ten days afterwards.

Surgery In some patients veins surgery is sometimes necessary. Modern surgical techniques have made this possible as a day case with quick recovery and minimal discomfort.

Mr Osman explains, “Your consultant will discuss the most suitable treatment with you depending on nature of your condition and the expected results from them”. Mr Osman lives in Ipswich with his family and in his spare time is a Governor at Orwell Park School in Nacton. He also has a love of the Suffolk countryside and enjoys the outdoor life when he can. “Suffolk is certainly a much calmer and quieter environment than the Midlands,” said Mr Osman. “It has been a great place to raise a family and work.”

For more information on how to book a private consultation with Mr Osman to discuss varicose vein treatment, please contact Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital on 01473 279179. www.nuffieldhealth.com/ipswichhospital

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Barretts of Woodbridge

Internal Shutters from Barretts We are delighted to introduce the Luxaflex Interior Shutter collection – a new way of increasing privacy, controlling light in your home and improving home insulation. Combining modern design with timeless style, the collection exudes quality and elegance, and is perfectly suited to any interior – from vintage chic to contemporary minimalism.

Available in vinyl & wood, full height, tier on tier & café style. Numerous finishes available from painted to stained, with a choice of louvre sizes.

5 year guarantee for wood, 25 year for vinyl.

FREE MEASURING AND ESTIMATING SERVICE

www.barretts.co.uk 40 The Thoroughfare, Woodbridge Free customer car park T: 01394 384300 E: sales@barretts.co.uk

Business Profile | Barretts of Woodbridge

IT’S ALL HAPPENING IN THE BARRETTS SOFTS DEPARTMENT! The popular independent home furnishing store Barretts of Woodbridge has changed a lot over the last few years, and customers have noticed a fresh new look about the place.

Displays are regularly updated with new and enticing ranges, colours and style always ‘en trend’, and everything delivered with the Barretts legendary customer service as always.

The Softs Department is the latest area to boast not one but two new product lines.

Some of the many Barretts Express Curtains fabrics available

INTERIOR SHUTTERS Another new and exciting product line from Barretts is Interior Shutters, which are steadily gaining popularity in Suffolk. In addition to providing privacy and light control, shutters can give your home a sophisticated, continental look, and something very different from traditional curtains and blinds.

BARRETTS EXPRESS CURTAINS Barretts have always been very proud of their bespoke and hand-stitched curtain service. It’s easy to see why with top fabric houses like Sanderson, Harlequin, Scion, Voyage to choose from, backed by a team of locally based and expert makers and a full fitting service.

Softs Department Head Carol Stroud with Sales Assistant Marina Bennett, showing off the new Barretts Express Curtains

Carol Stroud (Head of Softs Department), is thrilled about the new service:

Responding to customer demand, Barretts have recently launched a 14 day express curtains service. With a huge selection of over 100 fashionable Clarke and Clarke fabrics to choose from and three curtain header types available, this new service is an easy and quick way to really spruce up your living room, kitchen or bedroom. The pricing structure is simple and represents super value, with curtains ready for collection in just 14 days from order.

“Whilst our bespoke curtain service is very popular, we regularly get requests for a value alternative with a quicker turn-around time. And now we can meet that demand with the Barretts Express Curtains service. With our experience of styles and trends in Suffolk, we've been able to select those Clarke and Clarke fabrics we feel will most appeal to our customers. The curtain treatments Pencil Pleat (3"), Pinch Peat (Triple), or Eyelet are available in a range of widths (pole lengths) and drops.

Our new in-shop display is conveniently grouped in colour banks – blues, beige/browns, neutrals, reds, pinks and greens, and there are plenty of floral, stripe and pattern designs. So, with lots of lovely prints in cheerful colours and attractive designs – there really is something for everyone.”

Wood and vinyl options are available in many finishes and louvre sizes, along with full height, tier on tier or café style.

With this range of choice, anything from a vintage to contemporary style is possible.

Interior Shutters – an elegant window treatment option

Visit the Barretts website to find out more, or better still, pop into the store and have a chat with Carol or Marina.

Don’t forget the Barretts free, no obligation measuring and estimating service for curtains, blinds, and internal shutters. www.barretts.co.uk/express-curtains/ www.barretts.co.uk/internal-shutters/

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APRIL 2014

ON THE RIGHT TRACK If you’re planning new curtains or blinds you’ll be faced with a number of decisions. Whether you’re heading down the made-to-measure or ready-made route you’ll need to consider style, colour and time as well as which solution really is best for your window. Follow these top tips from Suffolk based Interior Design specialists Rendall & Wright and you’ll be on the right track!

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Scale your window dressing treatment to suit the proportion of the window.

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Always interline silk curtains and blinds. This provides a more luxurious product and helps protect against sun damage.

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Use a fabric covered lath when you have little space above the window or you need to use a corded track.

This neat slim system looks smart whilst being extremely practical.

Floor to ceiling length cream wool curtains on a fabric covered lath provide an elegant, cosy feel to this tall bedroom, Rendall & Wright

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Homes & Interiors

Triple pinch pleated curtains on a black wrought iron pole. The style of heading provides an elegant curtain with a minimal, Rendall & Wright

Curtains made using Sienna fabric available in 8 colours, shown here in Blue Haze with tie backs to add a real elegance, Catherine Haddon

A slim-line, contrast bordered flat pelmet adds height and grandeur with a contemporary edge to this bay window, Rendall & Wright

Fjord Contour Eyelet Curtains Steel from £51.50, Glasswells

Sanderson Fabric, classic, beautiful and always in fashion, shown here in Caverley, Fabric from £34pm, Barretts of Woodbridge

Harlequin Kallianthi, opulent luxury for your home, Fabric from £30pm, Barretts of Woodbridge

Curtains made using Scion Wabi Sabi, cool, funky, and so now fabric from £27pm, Barretts of Woodbridge

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Perfectly crafted timber windows and doors Come along to one of our showrooms to see more...

Bury St Edmunds 8 Fornham Business Court, Hall Farm, Bury Drift Fornham St Martin, Suffolk IP31 1SL. 01284 760222

Ingatestone The Old Forge, 53 High Street, Ingatestone Essex CM4 0AT. 01277 350950

Woodbridge New showroom opening Spring 2014 at Notcutts Garden Centre, Woodbridge.

www.burgess-group.com

WOODBRIDGE INTERIORS

• Large kitchen and bathroom showroom • Villeroy & Boch, Matki Aqata & Hans Grohe • German kitchen furniture, Corian & Neff • Full installation service • Free design

Kitchen and Bathroom showroom Smithfield, Melton Road, Melton, nr. Woodbridge, IP12 1NG

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Tel: 01394 386390 www.woodbridgeinteriors.co.uk

Homes & Interiors

Curtains made using Clarke & Clarke fabric. Affordable designer style, contemporary to classic. Shown here is Folia fabric £18pm, Barretts of Woodbridge

Sanderson Home Madison bold, cheerful and just right for Spring, Fabric from £31pm, Barretts of Woodbridge

Apsley Pencil Headed Curtains from £26, Glasswells

Roman blind made with Jane Churchill fabric & trim, Pippa Rolls

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APRIL 2014

A small scale Roman blind adds softness and height to this tiny cottage window, Rendall & Wright

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Fit Roman blinds above the window recess to allow maximum light filtration into the room.

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Keep roller blinds discreetly hidden within the window recess. This disguises the head-rail creating a seamless style.

Roman blind with matching pelmet, Pippa Rolls

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Wooden shutters in this small bedroom provide privacy and light without occupying any space, Rendall & Wright

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In a busy room with little space try shutters or wooden slatted blinds. This helps keep a space feeling fresh and uncluttered. They are also great to use on a busy street or bathroom. They provide privacy whilst providing daylight.

Luxaflex Internal Shutters practical, elegant and available in a variety of colours Barretts of Woodbridge

‰

Locally made Nantmor Blinds Barretts of Woodbridge

Creating beautiful spaces for your home and garden

STOCKISTS Barretts of Woodbridge 40-42 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge.

T: 01394 384300 www.barretts.co.uk Catherine Haddon T: 01379 871475 www.catherinehaddon.co.uk Glasswells Ranelagh Road, Ipswich or Newmarket Road, Bury St Edmunds T: 01473 253164 www.glasswells.co.uk Pippa Rolls Ltd 6-8 Gobbitts Yard, Woodbridge.

T: 01394 386896 www.pipparolls.com Rendall & Wright T: 01787 375076 www.rendallandwright.co.uk

Quality Qualit y Carpets & F Flooring looring Excellent Servic Excellent Service e Highly Competitive Competitive Prices Prices from fr om the Lar Largest gest Independent St Stockists ockists in the ar area ea Established in 1981 EB Carpets ha have ve o over ver 30 yyears ears of suc successful cessful trading tr ading in which time w wee have have built a reputation reputation for for supplying qualityy products qualit products with servic servicee tto o mat match. ch.

A ffamily amily firm we we are are the area’s area’s lar largest gest independent st stockist ockist of all ttypes ypes of floor ccoverings overings and our fully tr trained ained tteam eam can advise on the ideal solutions ffor or both domestic and commercial commercial use.

Wee rrecognise customers want qualityy and vvalue W ecognise our cust omers w ant both qualit alue ffor or moneyy and pride our ourselves delivering mone selves on cconsistently onsistently deliv ering both.

Wee ar aree happ happyy tto offer free estimates whatever aree W o off er fr ee estimat es so what ever yyou ou ar givee us a call. W Wee look fforward looking ffor or please giv orward tto o helping yyou. ou.

RUGS AND ROLL ROLL END OFFERS

SPECIAL OFFERS SPECIAL EACH EACH MONTH

CHOICE OF OVER OVER 150 ROLLS ROLLS IN STOCK S TOCK We quotee fr from anyy rretail We will beat any any genuine genuine written written quot om an etail outlet

EB Carpets & F Flooring looring 246-248 2 46-248 High Str Street, eet, Walton, Walton, FFelixstowe elixstowe T:: (0 T (01394) 1394) 28 282538 2538 email:inf email:info@ebcarpetsandflooring.co.uk o@ebcarpetsandflooring.co.uk

• FFAMILY AMILLY R RUN UN BUSINES BUSINESS S • UPLIFT OF EXISTING EXISTING CARPETS CARPETS

• ALL FL FLOOR OOR PREPARATION PREPARATION • DOMESTIC DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL

• FREE LLOCAL OCAL DELIVER DELIVERY Y • FREE ES ESTIMATES TIMATES

At Samuel David Construction we pride ourselves on achieving total satisfaction for our customers.

Based on the heritage coast, near Woodbridge, we offer a bespoke building service covering all aspects of construction. From planning to completion our work is always completed to the highest possible standard.

• • • •

Landscaping Refurbishment Conversions Renovation

• Restoration • Complete Building Service • Planning and Design

Why compromise?

Whatever your project, call us for a free estimate T: 01394 766837 M: 07889 129746 E: sdconstruction@btinternet.com www.samueldavidconstruction.co.uk

@samueldavidltd

find us on Facebook

• EXPER T PERS ONAL SER VICE EXPERT PERSONAL SERVICE EssentialSUFFOLK

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Hall Brothers’ Conservatories Making light work of increasing your living space Are you looking for additional living space but don’t want to move house or manage a major extension? Maybe you need a room for entertaining family and friends? Or a light and airy dining room with views of the garden?

Whatever your requirements, why not consider a handcrafted conservatory from Hall Brothers?

Not only can it be designed to meet your specific family needs, it can also blend with the style of your home, provide an attractive space all–year round and add value to your property.

At Hall Brothers, Builders & Joiners, we’re traditional craftsmen who take an oldfashioned pride in our work.

Our three-generation family business was started by Reginald Hall and then Roy Hall and is now run by two brothers, Philip and Richard, who share a love for wood and an eye for detail.

With customers throughout East Anglia, we have built up an outstanding reputation for exceptional standards of design, executed with meticulous attention to detail and the highest quality construction.

When it comes to conservatories, we’ll work with you to make the most of the space available and find a style to suit your home.

Inside story Let’s step inside a Hall Brothers’ conservatory so you can see at first hand the exceptional quality that comes as standard.

Starting with the raw material, we use only FAS grade hardwood timber - the highest possible – throughout the construction and that includes every single component which is handmade in our workshop.

Our conservatory doors are also top quality.

Made using traditional mortise and tenon construction, they are over 25% thicker and stronger than the average door so they not only look but feel stronger and more solid.

We use exceptional quality hardware too, available in a choice of materials including superbly durable brass, stainless steel, chrome and cast iron finish.

Safe and warm Quality extends to insulation. As with the doors, the timber used for the vents and casements allows for a toughened safety glass unit with airspace to ensure superior insulation, draught proofing and strength.

For added insulation the roofs are toughened double-glazed sealed units and for the rest of the conservatory we offer the option of high performance, low energy insulating glass units.

For maximum security – and excellent draught-proofing – we fit multi-point locking systems on all our doors, vents and casements. These work by bolting the door closed at multiple positions along the frame, not just in one place like conventional locks.

Contemporary features That’s not all. Even in the most traditional designs we can incorporate a wide range of innovative contemporary features from selfcleaning glass to automatically controlled electric roof vents to underfloor heating.

And last but not least, we can manage the whole process for you from design to completion, including dealing with obtaining planning approvals, listed building consents and building regulations.

For more information on our conservatories – or any of our products including windows and doors, kitchens or staircases – please visit our website www.hall-brothers.co.uk or telephone 01473 365167 / 01206 298746 to request our brochure.

Quality Design and Craftsmanship

We've never really considered our fastidious attention to detail as anything other than normal practice – it's only our customers who've convinced us otherwise over the years.

Our insistence on using only the finest hardwoods from managed forests to our 'over and above' specification on all levels have become hallmarks of our work. For example, every hardwood component is individually hand made, our door frame sections are much heavier and more substantial and our windows and doors use multi-locking systems for increased security as standard.

Call for a brochure on

01206 298746 or 01473 365167 craftsman@hall-brothers.co.uk www.hall-brothers.co.uk

APRIL 2014

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Gardening

The modern concept of wild open water swimming might well suit some Suffolk enthusiasts but for those not up to mud and boggy river bottoms there’s something much more beautiful – the swimming pond. Anne Gould finds out more

T

he joy of swimming in the open air with the sun on your back has long been extolled by poets, writers and in song. Historically this was as much about jumping into a nearby lake, pond, river or even the sea in the height of summer to cool off as “taking the waters” for any supposed health reasons. Then along came swimming pools that brought us, with their turquoise blue, a sort of Mediterranean tonic - albeit with an overwhelming whiff of chlorine, discarded corn plasters and who knows what else lurking below.

Of course for some a private swimming pool in your own home has always been regarded as a sort of magic luxury but the reality is that these are not maintained without cost and regular “housekeeping.” The swimming pond, however offers an alternative and perhaps the best of both worlds for people who simply love to swim.

Without a doubt they are extraordinarily beautiful additions to your back garden, come summer or winter landscaped with stunning plants, sculptures and hand-made fittings to make the most of the seasons. ‰

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ROGER GLADWELL LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION LTD

Dreams and plans can become reality Maypole Green, Dennington, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 8AH

Telephone: 01728 638 372 Mobile: 07785 966 221 sales@rogergladwell.co.uk www.rogergladwell.co.uk

Gardening

Photograph: Richard Bloom

They attract wildlife like kingfishers, dragonflies and, if you are lucky, swooping swifts and swallows who will dive to drink on the wing but you will also be able to swim in tranquil and visually stunning surroundings. But, as Paul Mercer, from the Swimming Pond Company explained they are chemicalfree and environmentally friendly too, a huge bonus which means that getting the science right – using the right plants, biological systems and machinery is crucial.

A landscape and garden designer Paul says his passion for swimming ponds was inspired by years of travelling and in particular visits to South Africa – diving into icy natural rock pools surrounding by lush colourful vegetation and stunning scenery. But it wasn’t until one day some years ago when he happened to open a magazine and see a feature about European swimming ponds that he decided to specialise.

“Swimming ponds first became popular in Austria and Italy in the 1980s and since then the idea has spread across the world.”

They are designed to have two zones – a deeper area for swimming that’s dug out to a depth of your choosing – Paul’s pond at his home in Bressingham is 1.5 – 2 metres. There’s also what’s known as a regeneration zone – that’s the same size as the swimming area but only 20cm deep. Together they make up

an ecologially balanced and self-cleaning pond, he says. “In nature lakes, ponds and pools are kept clean by a combination of plants and microorganisms including beneficial bacteria.

Organic waste matter is broken down by the action of these micro-organisms into substances that plants can absorb in the form of nutrients. “Swimming ponds use this concept. The shallow regeneration zone is a biological filter and is planted up with a wide range of aquatic plants. It is separated from the swimming zone by an internal wall which terminates around 20cm below the pond surface, thus allowing free movement of water between the two zones and ensures the swimming area is kept free of vegetation.” Paul says despite the divide, one still feels surrounded and immersed in plants, while swimming in uninterrupted life enriched water.

Of course depending how hardy you might be, the option to swim is there every day of the year (wetsuits optional) but the water temperature depends on the weather. In summer you might achieve somewhere between 25-28°C but as it drops to single figures in winter it might just be preferable to catch the view from the deck instead. Paul says as people become more familiar with swimming ponds he’s is getting increasing number of calls from across the country and world from people interested in taking the plunge.

So for those who are debating a swimming pool or pond – here’s a firsthand view from one of Paul’s clients; “Over the last thirty years, we have had both types of conventional swimming pool at different properties – a large outdoor pool and a smaller indoor pool.

Both pools required a great deal of effort and expense to keep clean and disinfected. When we bought our present house in Suffolk, we thought again about swimming pools and an old friend who is an architect suggested we should look at swimming ponds, as he felt that one would fit in so well with our lovely old listed vicarage which is also in a conservation area. It really is one of the best decisions we have ever made.

Crystal clear water with no chemicals, beautiful plants all around as you swim, easy to keep looking good and wonderful to look at whatever the season and whatever the weather. Unlike a conventional outdoor pool, which has to be covered from autumn to late spring, this pool is always open and a very attractive feature in the garden.

Swimming is a joy. Our grandchildren love using a mask and snorkel to see the various small creatures which share the pool with us as well as jumping in and swimming and one of the nicest things is to watch the swallows in mid-summer as they fly down and skim the water to drink.”

INFORMATION www.theswimmingpondcompany.co.uk

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Antiques & Auctions

APRIL 2014

NOT QUITE ON SAFARI! Just before Christmas I attended a charity drinks event held in Middle Temple Hall in London, a splendid venue, where around five hundred people, mostly in grey suits, were entertained by the event sponsors Equitix, Deloitte, C’M’S’ & Evercore Partners.

Apart from enjoying the convivial company, canapés and liquid refreshment I conducted a small auction of half a dozen or so lots raising funds for a variety of charities. The prime lot was a dream Kenyan holiday for four people which included a visit to the northern white rhino programme and incidentally sold for £5,250 with flights and transfers in addition.

This wonderful animal is of course protected in the wild but you may be

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surprised to learn that there are now strict rules governing the trade of rhino horn, known colloquially as CITES. For the purest that stands for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species.

The regulations are quite complex and include an exemption of the usual sales constraints for a ‘worked’ antique if it has been acquired prior to June 1947.

The horn must have been significantly altered from the original state and the work must have also been completed by June 1947.

A rhino horn which has not been carved or worked can no longer be sold regardless of age but a taxidermy study of a rhino head complete with horns can be sold provided the taxidermist completed his or her work prior to 1947.

James Neal

In all cases where items connected with the rhino can be sold a license will be required or appropriate documentation obtained prior to the sale taking place. This will involve contact with the Wildlife Licensing & Registration Service.

Similarly strict laws apply to the sale of elephant ivory. A tusk mounted in silver but otherwise untreated cannot be sold but if a tusk has been heavily carved all over or fashioned into a completely different shape – say a page turner or paper knife – then a sale within the EU should be permissible.

How much better it is to see these wonderful animals completely at home in the wild and without a care in the world for the taxidermist or carver, but alert to the threat of the hunter.

Property

Essential

PROPERTY 78 79 81 83 85 85 88 100

Neals Jackson-Stops & Staff Castle Estates Fine & Country Jennie Jones Clarke & Simpson Fenn Wright Hopkins Homes

80 Mendham

82 Westhall

84 Nacton

86 New ‘Property Shop’ for Fenn Wright EssentialSUFFOLK

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01394 382263 enquiries@nsf.co.uk www.nsf.co.uk 26 CHURCH STREET WOODBRIDGE SUFFOLK IP12 1DP

Cumberland Street Woodbridge Suffolk - Offers around ÂŁ325,000

An appealing and individual Grade II Listed house of character close to the shops in The Thoroughfare and other facilities within the town The accommodation comprises Hall, Sitting Room, Kitchen, Cloakroom, two first floor Bedrooms and a Bathroom No garden. Dedicated Car parking space. EPC Band D

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GOLD

SILVER

PICTURES

CERAMICS

CURIOS

JEWELLERY

CLOCKS

FURNITURE

WE ARE NOW ACCEPTING ENTRIES FOR OUR NEXT SPECIAL SALE OF ANTIQUES at The Theatre Street Saleroom Woodbridge on 16th April If you have items to consign please contact Russell Cole on 01394 382263 or by email rc@nsf.co.uk

jackson-stops.co.uk

Polstead A stunning Queen Anne style Country house standing in a magnificent parkland setting on the edge of one of Suffolk’s most sought after villages.

• 5 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room • Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom & dressing room • 7/8 further bedrooms • 3 bathrooms & shower room • Stables & manege • Tennis court • swimming pool • Garaging • Cricket pitch & pavilion • Orchard, paddocks • In all, about 33 acres • 3 bedroomed gate lodge and further land available seperately • EPC = E Guide Price £2,950,000

People Property Places

Contact Tim Dansie or Jonathan Penn 01473 218218 ipswich@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

APRIL 2014

THE RED HOUSE FACTS LOCATION: MENDHAM GUIDE PRICE: £895,000 AGENT: CLARKE & SIMPSON

GEORGIAN SPLENDOUR In the heart of the Waveney Valley, an area of outstanding natural beauty, the Red House is an impressive Georgian-fronted five bedroom house, ideal for an elegant family home.

Meanwhile the kitchen is in the older part of the house and is well fitted with a comprehensive range of painted Shaker-style units with beech and English slate tops and a four oven Aga.

Set in grounds of just over an acre it’s a Grade II listed house, and predominantly dates from 1820 although there’s a timber framed and brick wing to the rear believed to originate from around the 16th century.

There are doors out to the gardens, a wide opening from the kitchen leads into the dining room and across the hall to the family snug/sitting room.

The accommodation is arranged over three floors with finely proportioned rooms and period features including cornices, fireplaces, doors and skirting, and large sash windows.

The ground floor rooms are accessed from the reception and central halls with the formal rooms to the front of the house.

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The gardens are a particular feature of the house and lie predominantly to the south enclosed by red brick walls and established shrubs and trees.

There are pathways that lead to other areas of interest in including a productive vegetable garden with greenhouse, wide stone terrace areas and some superb trees interspersed amongst the gardens.

To the north-east side of the house is a detached home office with telephone lines connected. Beyond this are less formal areas of garden which include a horse pond and a path which leads to the self contained studio. The studio is built of brick and tile and was originally a cart shed. It offers fantastic overflow accommodation with a living room, kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom.

INFORMATION Clarke & Simpson 01728 724200 To see more photographs of this property visit essentialsuffolk.com/property

Castle Estates

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ORFORD Guide ÂŁ495,000 Immaculate period cottage with superb views of Orford Castle. Double bedroom with an elegant bathroom, sitting area with a Chesney EPC Band E log burner, fully fitted kitchen, cloaks. Underfloor heating. Detached studio/guest accommodation with a shower room. Terraces and brick utility room/store

ORFORD Guide £795,000 Deceptively spacious period cottage close to Market Hill. 26’6 sitting room, inner hall, study, kitchen open to conservatory dining room, cloaks. Master bedroom with en-suite, two further double bedrooms, family bathroom. Large garden, parking, double garage with boarded first floor.

EPC Band D

ORFORD Guide £695,000 Award winning conversion of a Grade II thatched cottage. Superb views of the river. A short stroll from Market Hill and the river bank. Three bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, 23’ sitting room with an Inglenook, kitchen, glazed dining room, sunny garden.

EPC Band n/a

ORFORD Guide ÂŁ575,000 Period cottage with river views, a short stroll from Pump Street Bakery. Dining hall, sitting room, utility, cloaks, kitchen, open plan living area, master bed with balcony, bathroom, single bedroom and an attic bedroom. Garden, garage and parking.

EPC Band F

APRIL 2014

EQUESTRIAN LIVING

MANOR FARM FACTS LOCATION: WESTHALL, HALESWORTH GUIDE PRICE: £750,000 AGENT: FENN WRIGHT

Set in five acres of land Manor Farm is an attractive period farmhouse that’s ideal for families who keep horses.

It’s a period farmhouse offering four bedrooms, three receptions an annexe and equestrian facilities. The rooms are well-proportioned rooms and although it is in need of a certain amount of updating it’s an excellent property.

Downstairs the dining room has a double aspect overlooking the gardens to the front and side and having a brick open fireplace with wooden mantel.

The sitting room also has a double aspect and a feature open brick fireplace and footed bookcase.

To the rear and left of the property is the kitchen with fitted units and oil- fired Rayburn set in a fireplace.

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From the kitchen there is a rear hall with access to the annexe and utility room.

Upstairs is a good-size landing which overlooks the front garden, and four double bedrooms, all with double aspect views and cast-iron fireplaces, with the main bedroom having a wash-hand basin. Next to the bathroom stairs lead to an attic room which offers potential for conversion to an additional bedroom.

Adjoining the house is a one bedroom annexe which includes a bathroom and a kitchen/breakfast room and a sitting room.

Outside Manor Farm there are mature grounds and gardens to the front and side of the farmhouse with a variety of specimen trees, mature hedging and lawned gardens.

To the rear is a superb range of barns, outbuildings and stable yard. There is an impressive timber-framed Suffolk barn with attached workshop, cart lodge.

Completing the outbuildings is a further two bay open barn and an enclosed bay.

The equestrian facilities include eight stables, four paddocks and a 20m x 40m sand manège.

In all, the gardens, grounds and paddocks extend to approximately 5 acres and there is a further paddock on the other side of the road which extends to just over 1.3 acres.

INFORMATION Fenn Wright 01473 358 400 To see more photographs of this property visit essentialsuffolk.com/property

NETWORK OF 300 INDEPENDENT OFFICES REPRESENTING PROPERTIES LOCALLY, NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY

IPSWICH

Guide Price: £565,000

HOLBROOK

Guide Price; £500,000

A handsome, most stylish and spacious detached modern family home set in grounds of approximately 0.25 of an acre (sts) with double garage, parking & enclosed gardens.

The flexible accommodation is beautifully presented, boasts a wrap-round balcony to the first floor, there is a luxury fitted kitchen & subject to planning, could provide annexe accommodation. EPC – C. Apply Ipswich Office

A wonderfully spacious five bedroom home with south facing garden, beautifully situated on the peninsula enjoying local walks to Alton Reservoir, the River Stour and Orwell.

Sailing and further amenities can be found nearby and river views can be enjoyed from the first floor of the property. EPC – D. Apply Ipswich Office

GREAT BLAKENHAM

BUXHALL

Guide Price £499,500

Guide Price £435,000

A detached Grade II listed five bedroom Suffolk farmhouse with a wealth of period features including exposed timbers and open fireplaces, set in approximately three quarters of an acre (sts).The accommodation in brief comprises of: Entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, study, kitchen, breakfast room, butler’s pantry, shower room, cellar and conservatory.

On the first floor: Five double bedrooms,W.C. and family bathroom with a range of outbuildings including barns and cart lodge, as well as off-road parking.

Apply Needham Office

An attractive five bedroom detached family home situated on the outskirts of Buxhall with far-reaching views across the adjacent countryside.The well-presented accommodation comprises of: Entrance hall, sitting room with fireplace, dining room, family room, kitchen, utility room, cloakroom and conservatory. On the first floor: Galleried landing, master bedroom with en suite bathroom and four further bedrooms. Outside: Private drive with plenty of off-road parking and access to the double garage. EPC – D. Apply Needham Office

WOODBRIDGE

WOODBRIDGE

Price on Application

With spectacular views to the River Deben, this imposing seven bedroom home is set in a prime, elevated plot of 3.17 acres (sts) incorporating outdoor pool, tennis court, large parking area and double garage.The position of this highly desirable residence is probably one of the best in Woodbridge. Recently refurbished to an extremely high specification, the sumptuous solid oak AGA kitchen with granite surfaces, large breakfast island and panoramic river views is the heart of the house. EPC D. Apply Woodbridge Office

87a High Street, Needham Market Suffolk IP6 8DQ T: 01449 723500 E: needham@fineandcountry.com

Guide Price £765,000

This substantial five bedroom executive home, built to a high specification by Maxwell Homes Ltd, enjoys a prime residential position and is conveniently located for the town’s amenities. Accommodation comprises: reception hall, study, cloakroom, triple aspect living room, dining/playroom, bespoke kitchen/breakfast room opening to patio, utility, planning permission granted for a timber conservatory, master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite, four further bedrooms, two further en-suites, gardens enclosed by brick walls and Osier fencing, parking area and double garage. EPC C. Apply Woodbridge Office

28 Church Street, Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1DH T: 01394 446007 E: woodbridge@fineandcountry.com

4 Great Colman Street, Ipswich Suffolk IP4 2AD T: 01473 289700 E: ipswich@fineandcountry.com

APRIL 2014

WESTBANK FACTS LOCATION: NACTON GUIDE PRICE: ÂŁ695,000 AGENT: FINE & COUNTRY (IPSWICH)

CONTEMPORARY VILLAGE HOME Westbank is a stunning contemporary recently constructed four bedroom detached family home situated in the popular village of Nacton only a few minutes from the A14/A12 corridor which provides easy access to Ipswich, Woodbridge and Felixstowe.

The accommodation comprises: reception hall, cloakroom, large living room, study, stunning luxury fittedkitchen/breakfast room, utility room, staircase to first floor, family bathroom, two en-suites and four generously proportioned bedrooms.

Designed by award winning local architects Wincer Kievenaar Westbank has been built in a tranquil, lightly wooded setting and has been designed to offer light and space and this is maximised through the extensive use of glass within the construction, which also allows full appreciation of the pleasant rural views across the neighbouring lake to the rear, woodland and fields beyond.

The property benefits from sumptuously appointed bathroom and suites, double glazing, gas fired central heating and superbly presented dĂŠcor including oak faced internal doors and tiled and oak flooring to the ground floor.

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Outside there are landscaped gardens with a shared access point leading round to the detached double garage and parking to the front.

Side access leads to the rear where the rear garden is laid to lawn with a large sun terrace set across the rear of the property providing privacy and the occupants can enjoy the full appreciation of this wonderful setting.

As well as being well positioned for easy access to the major road systems in the area Nacton is also an ideal location for those who enjoy the outdoors with beautiful walks by the River Orwell on its doorstep.

INFORMATION Fine & Country Ipswich 01473 289700 To see more photographs of this property visit essentialsuffolk.com/property

SNAPE

GUIDE PRICE OIRO £325,000

A beautiful Victorian semi-detached house in a quiet location at the heart of the village with commanding views towards the Alde estuary and Snape Maltings. Entrance porch, hall, 2 reception rooms, kitchen, three bedrooms, bathroom, attic studio room, front and rear gardens. Attractive VictoULDQ RXWKRXVH FRPSULVLQJ *DUGHQHU·V : & Former wash house/Workshop and coal shed which could be adapted and converted to create an outside office/studio. EPC.-E.

DARSHAM GUIDE PRICE £279,000 Semi-detached 3 bed farm cottage, edge of village. Contemporary kitchen, dining room/ conservatory, garden, parking. EPC-F

PEASENHALL

£239,000

Well presented modern 3 bed mews house in exclusive courtyard, Sitting room/dining room, cloaks, en suite, family bathroom, car port. EPC-C

Aldeburgh 01728 454622

ALDEBURGH

£440,000

Detached modern individual bungalow Hall, kitchen/diner, 2 reception, conservatory, 2 baths, 3/4 beds, double garage. EPC-D

Saxmundham 01728 605511 www.jennie-jones.com

FRISTON GUIDE PRICE

£435,000

Detached 4 bedroom executive bungalow with hall, cloaks, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, conservatory, en suite bathroom, family shower room, landscaped gardens, double garage. Beautifully presented. EPC-D

LOWER HACHESTON

£398,000

Grade II listed 4 bed property with exposed beams, vaulted ceilings. 2 reception, lovely kitchen, studio room, gardens, garage.

DARSHAM

£369,950

Beautifully presented 4 bed detached house Sitting/dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, en suite, garden, garage. EPC-D

Southwold 01502 722065

Mendham Guide Price £895,000

Kettleburgh Guide Price £695,000

A most impressive Georgian fronted five bedroom village house with additional two bedroom studio, home office & beautiful walled gardens extending to approximately 1.1 acres, located on the Suffolk/Norfolk border.

A substantial four bedroom red brick Suffolk barn conversion with two bedroom annexe & 3½ acres in a rural location close to the popular market town of Framlingham.

EPCs = E & D Ref: P5021

Ref: P5036

Dennington

Guide Price £585,000

A spacious four bedroom modern house dating from the 1980s, with integral two bedroom annexe, store sheds & swimming pool. Garden & woodland extending to 3.25 acres. EPC = D Ref: P5029

Parham

Guide Price £425,000

An attractive four bedroom detached family home with two reception rooms, sitting in a delightful setting with a brook and gardens of just under half an acre.

EPC = D Ref: P5041

Badingham

Guide Price £395,000

An immaculately maintained and beautifully presented four bedroom Georgian style modern house in the popular village of Badingham. EPC = D Ref: P5045

Clarke and Simpson, Well Close Square, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9DU

T: 01728 724200

Bedfield

Guide Price £215,000

A three bedroom semi-detached cottage sitting in the centre of a large plot, with lovely garden at the rear backing onto farmland. EPC = D Ref: P5047

www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

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The Ipswich estate agency which lays claim to being one of the oldest in the UK has launched a new concept in residential property shops when it recently opened an additional branch in Kesgrave on the outskirts of Ipswich

FENN WRIGHT’S

FRESH NEW LOOK FOR ESTATE AGENCY 86

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Main picture (from back left to right): Charlie Wright, Nichola Faulkner, Toby-Spencer Campbell, Sophie Young, Chris Clements, Emma Ruddell and Stella Mitchell

Agent Profile | Fenn Wright Kesgrave

F

enn Wright’s new Kesgrave property shop, which will handle residential sales and lettings, is unlike any other outside London, and is the result of in depth research by the firm’s marketing department in conjunction with Colchester-based branding, marketing and design consultancy, Puur.

The new concept does away with the old-style office where buyers or sellers are lured through the door by glossy pictures displayed in shop windows and then confronted by a phalanx of agents behind desks, all eagerly inspecting the latest quarry.

“We’ve been working with Fenn Wright for 18 months now, helping them to more closely align their branding and everything associated with that to their services. When we got to the actual environments, we initially conducted an audit of high street estate agents in Essex and Suffolk. This threw up a number of challenges, the biggest being that on the whole agencies are visually not very welcoming places,” said Michael Rance, Puur’s founder and Creative Director.

“Our aim has been to bring the process of buying or selling a house, which is something extremely personal, in line with Fenn Wright's strong customerfocused attitude. To do this we created a much brighter contemporary environment which twinned with other elements of the brand we have been working on will go towards delivering a much more relaxed and pleasant experience,” he said.

The new showroom next to The Bell pub on the A1214 Main Road at Kesgrave is arranged as a series of light and airy spaces with curving walls, attractive showcases and comfy chairs where people can meet, sit and drink coffee and chat about their requirements.

The negotiators’ desks and electronic equipment are tucked away out of general view – a far cry from the traditional layout of an estate agency.

Fenn Wright’s new branch at Kesgrave is headed by Fenn Wright Partner and Head of Ipswich Residential Charlie Wright who is the third generation of his family to work within the company. His administrative assistant Nichola Faulkner has also moved to the new branch, together with newly-appointed negotiator Chris Clements. Associate Partner Toby Spencer-Campbell has moved to Kesgrave from his most recent role spearheading the highly-successful launch of Fenn Wright’s branch in Manningtree last spring.

Charlie Wright, who has carried out extensive research into Fenn Wright’s 246 year history and believes it is among the longest-established estate agencies in the UK, said the new branch would give the firm a highly visible base in a booming residential ‘island’ on the Ipswich outskirts.

“We’ve long thought that this would be an area where we would like to have a presence,” he said. “ When we began hunting for our new branch, Alistair Mitchell, Partner and Head of our Ipswich Commercial Department recognised the potential of these premises, formerly a

hairdressing salon, and was able to negotiate the acquisition of the lease for us last October.

“Refurbishment works have been going on since then, and we believe that our blacked out windows just with the words ‘coming soon…’ on the blinds have built up a high degree of anticipation locally.

We hope a lot of people in the area will be popping in to see what’s going on in here, and we’ll be able to sit down and chat in an informal way about their property needs generally.”

Fenn Wright’s Managing Partner Alan Williams said that over time, the concept will be rolled out across the firm’s six other branches, one in Ipswich Buttermarket and five more along the A12 corridor.

“There are people who question any decision to expand estate agency businesses given the current prominence of on-line property portals such as Rightmove. It’s our view, though, that nothing beats the personal touch.

“We’ve heard a lot recently from people who’ve spent many hours trawling the internet and haven’t found a suitable property. Face-to-face, we’re are able to build up a dialogue with buyers and better understand their most significant needs so we can tell them immediately we spot a house we think might suit them. A catch up on progress over a coffee also helps to build better connections with sellers. We do hope our new-style property shop will prove an even more welcoming environment for buyers and sellers and make their moving experience more relaxed and enjoyable.”

Contact Fenn Wright in Kesgrave on 01473 358 405.

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Property experts since

Main Road | Kesgrave

01473 358 400 GISLINGHAM, EYE

CHRISTCHURCH PARK

A modern detached family home offering well-planned accommodation on two floors, which extends to over 2,000 sq ft.

3 reception rooms | kitchen/dining room | utility | 5 bedrooms | 2 en-suite | family bathroom | double garage | parking | 85 ft. rear garden | Energy Rating C

CAPEL ST MARY

Set within a private courtyard of just two homes is this 5/6 bedroom executive style detached family home with good access to A12/A14 commuter links Reception hall | 3 receptions | kitchen | utility | 6 bedrooms | en-suite | bathroom | double garage | delightful landscaped garden | workshop | Energy Rating C

BAYLHAM

A spacious 4 bedroom detached barn style home with excellent equestrian facilities Built in 2009 with an NHBC guarantee | American style barn with 6 stables | hay barn | manège | sand lunging ring | approximately 6.3acres | Energy Rating C An attractive Curtilage Listed barn conversion set within this semi-rural location within the village of Baylham Sitting room with 18 ft. high vaulted ceiling | study | kitchen/breakfast room | utility | 4 bedrooms | 3 shower/bathrooms | character property with modern-day conveniences | backing onto farmland | triple cart lodge & garage | Energy Rating D

fennwright.co.uk/signature

Specialists in the sale of town, village and country houses | Experts in equestrian property

Motoring

ESSENTIAL FACTS l l l l l l l l

Max speed: 121 mph 0-62 mph: 9.7 secs Combined mpg: 44.8 Engine: 1998cc 4 cylinder 16 valve Boxer diesel Max. power (bhp): 148 at 3600 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft): 258 at 1800 rpm CO2: 166 g/km Price: £31,495

Subaru have launched the new updated Outback.

Motoring journalist Tim Barnes-Clay gives his verdict

NEW SUBARU OUTBACK The new Subaru Outback is a joy to drive. It has a more premium feel than its predecessor, with soft padding now covering up the slabs of plastic that once festooned the cabin.

The car is styled in a masculine way too.

Previously it looked a little insipid but now there’s a definite authority about its stance. This is accentuated by Subaru’s signature bonnet scoop, which gives the impression of a car with power under the hood. Also, emphasising the Outback’s sense of toughness and its ability to tackle all roads and conditions, the latest model features body-coloured cladding in place of the previous iteration’s black plastic.

The ride is typically Subaru – Velcro-like grip and a slightly cushioned feel thanks to the comfortable seats. In fact, as part of its 2014 upgrade, the car’s handling characteristics have been enhanced with revised suspension components and the latest incarnation of Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC).

This technology, along with alterations to the front and rear suspension, gives a stable on-road feel.

In addition, the Outback fills you with confidence in the wet or the snow – or indeed on anything without a pasting of tar. Subaru’s legendry all-wheel-drive

credentials just work – no fuss – no fiddly buttons – the technology simply kicks in whenever you get to slippery terrain.

The most significant change for the Outback is the introduction of a new powertrain pairing. A world first, Subaru engineers have combined the popular 2.0-litre Boxer diesel engine with a Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) automatic gearbox. The result is mixed; the power is there alright, but it’s released in a way that doesn’t really blow you away. The engine steadily cranks up the clout until you’re over the maximum speed limit without even realising it. ‰

EssentialSUFFOLK

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Motoring

APRIL 2014

With the new engine and gearbox combination the fresh Subaru Outback can return an average fuel consumption of up to 44.8 mpg whilst emitting 166g/km CO2. The figures aren’t astounding, but they’re not bad – especially for a car with more gadgetry to keep it from straying off the road than the average new motor.

The upgraded cabin of the current Outback features clearer and more modern instrumentation. It includes the addition of a liquid crystal instrument cluster display and new materials for a

number of dashboard elements. Black metallic panels bring about a more modern and quality appearance and feel, while a power-sliding glass sunroof and UV protected front, side and rear glass also feature.

The car I drove, the Subaru Outback 2.0D Lineartronic SX, has flagship levels of standard equipment inside and out. For the exterior there are new 17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, along with body-coloured power folding door mirrors (with integrated LED indicator repeaters), and matching colour-coded

door handles. Silver roof rails and a roof spoiler are other external accents.

What’s more, self-levelling automatic headlamps and rain sensing wipers add extra convenience.

A lot of car then – and so, when you think about it, £31,495 isn’t really that outrageous a price. Especially when compared with German models of the same ilk.

INFORMATION Hammonds Subaru 01986 834747

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Essential Faces

To view more, or purchase, photographs from this event visit essentialsuffolk.com

The Hadleigh Ram Invited guests enjoyed canapÊs and fizz at the launch of The Crook – a new private dining and meeting room at the Hadleigh Ram. The Crook is the perfect room for 10-20 guests for a private party, wedding or family occasion with bespoke menus available.

Michael & Diana Skrine, Susie & David Tweed

Annie & Mark David

Pat Smith, Catherine Abbott, Victoria Spellman

Pauline & Martin Thrower

0808 168 7068 www.burgess-group.com

Ed Pissarro, Lorna Macmillan

Jessica & Patrick Goudkuil

Izzy Lamble, William Stonehewer-Smith, Lil Ravensdale

Charlie Cottam, Catherine Bradfield

Paul & Marlini Finney

Visit our new showroom in Notcutts Garden Centre opening mid April 2014

Essential Faces

Woodbridge Mayoral Ball The Mayor of Woodbridge, Councillor Patti Mulcahy, was pleased to support The Eve Appeal, The Woodbridge Soldiers Fund and Friends of Woodbridge Library with the First Woodbridge Mayor’s Charity Ball held in the splendid surroundings of Seckford Hall Hotel.

Patti Mulcahy, Gabrielle Neal

Chris & Anne Pratt, Lesley & John Moody

Tim & Claire Darby, James Neal

Fiona & Chris Coles, Marc Dorkings, Tracey Foster

Barnaby & Jane Rufford

Joan Brightwell, Una Mitchell

Justin & Sarah Darcy

Miranda & Henry Huxley

Andrew & Sally Darcy

Richard & Louise Walkling

Enhance your home with beautifully designed, energy effficent windows and doors from The Burgess Group

0808 168 7068 www.burgess-group.com

To view more, or purchase, photographs from this event visit essentialsuffolk.com

Paul Foster Cooking Demonstration at Anglia Factors Enthusiastic homes cooks recently gathered at Anglia Factors in Martlesham Heath to enjoy two cooking demonstrations from celebrity chef Paul Foster. Paul demonstrated how the professional quality appliances now available for domestic kitchens put consistent mouthwatering results within our daily reach. The demonstration was supported by Woodbridge’s Adnams Cellar & Kitchen and The Woodbridge Kitchen Company.

Paul Foster, Dan Barr

Jeannette Stennett, Andy Baker

Andrew & Carol Gibbs

Jan Ballard, Spike Powell

Roy & Tina Barr

Mary & John Sculpher

Adam Kerrison, Emily Dale

Sue & Peter Smith

Liz Ryan, Sylvia Patsalides

Valerie Ryan, Anne Ryland

0808 168 7068 www.burgess-group.com

Visit our new showroom in Notcutts Garden Centre opening mid April 2014

Essential Faces

MENTA Suffolk, Coffee Means Business ‘Coffee Means Business’ is the MENTA Suffolk informal monthly networking meeting held at Seckford Hall Hotel, Woodbridge. MENTA provides people across Suffolk with the advice and support they require to start up, and grow their business and has been established almost 30 years.

Andrew Rowdon, Peter Mann, Helen Rudd

Sonia Shelcott, Mark Suddes, Jenny Stockman

Mark Dyer, Brian Bailey

Aimee Clark, Derek Rush

Alison Ramsey, John Ferguson

Sarah Whitelock, Trevor Clarke, Richard Brown

Michelle Wootton, Samuel Stamp-Dod

Kelly West, Gavin Lamb, Amanda Roper

Enhance your home with beautifully designed, energy effficent windows and doors from The Burgess Group

0808 168 7068 www.burgess-group.com

To view more, or purchase, photographs from this event visit essentialsuffolk.com

Suffolk Show Archive Film Evening in aid of R.A.B.I. A large audience gathered at Trinity Park for a Suffolk Show archive film evening presented by David Barker in aid of R.A.B.I. - the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution.

R.A.B.I. is a confidential grant-making charity which helps farming people of all ages if they are in financial difficulty.

To find out more visit www.rabi.org.uk

Roy Barker, Sharon McVeigh, Di Barker, Bob Archibald

Mary Patterson, Stephen Miles, Rosie Western

David Nunn, Jonathan Long, David Barker

Roy Barker, Sharon McVeigh, Di Barker, Bob Archibald

Georgie Hall, Prue Rush, Rosie Goodwin, Jane Gemmill

Andrew Woollacott, Rachel Miles

0808 168 7068 www.burgess-group.com

Jill Kerr, Petrina Miles

John & Fiona Fleming

Visit our new showroom in Notcutts Garden Centre opening mid April 2014

Essential Faces

To view more, or purchase, photographs from this event visit essentialsuffolk.com

Sirens Health & Beauty Retreat Charity Ball Sirens Health & Beauty Retreat in Felixstowe and Mobile Mini self-storage sponsored a charity ball held at the Orwell Hotel in Felixstowe in aid of Jacobs Hospice Homes, a small charity for destitute old people in India (but which is based in Newbourne in Suffolk) and The Dame Vera Lynn Trust which helps children and their families with Cerebral Palsy.

Paul Banham, Claire Ostler, Clare Ranner-Martin, Andy Martin, Theresa & Gary Grainger

Rob & Louise Brown

Graham & Sharon Flint, Ginny & Mike Davies

Brian & Beryl Ranner

Sally & Steve Potter

Richard & Jane Cobb

Joanna Roberts, Alisha Gilkes, Louise Warren

Vanessa & Samuel David Shutlar

Kevin & Jane Welton

Enhance your home with beautifully designed, energy effficent windows and doors from The Burgess Group

0808 168 7068 www.burgess-group.com

Directory

Essential

DIRECTORY HOMES AND GARDENS

3

KITCHEN | DINING | LIVING B E D R O O M | B AT H R O O M Visit our beautiful showroom Barton Road, Bury St Edmunds 01284 731025

www.angliafactors.co.uk

Kitchen & Bathroom specialists Designing rooms to relax and enjoy at the heart of your home Woodbridge interiors smithfield.melton.suffolk.ip12 1nG 01394 386390 www.woodbridgeinteriors.co.uk

Beautifully hand crafted, bespoke kitchens, cabinets and furniture www.orwellsfurniture.co.uk

Smithfield Melton Woodbridge IP12 1NH Telephone 01394 382067

justtileswoodbridge.co.uk

www.neptuneburystedmunds.com

Creating beautiful spaces for home and garden

CREATING BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR SPACES

Whatever your project, call us for a free estimate

Give us a call for more details Tel: 01394 382839 Mob: 07970 849773 info@gilman-earledesign.com www.gilman-earledesign.com

T: 01394 766837 E: sdconstruction@ btinternet.com M: 07889 129746 samueldavidconstruction.co.uk

MOTORING

DECK WORLD RELAX WITH NATU RE

ROGER GLADWELL

HOT TUBS FROM YOUR LOCAL IPSWICH SUPPLIER

Specialising in garden designs for the distinctive landscaping and architecture of East Anglia

Start of season deals – visit our showroom Entry level inflatable spa from £599.00. Fantastic range in stock for quick delivery. Garden buildings, composite decking, artificial grass, landscape and design specialists.

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97

My Suffolk

APRIL 2014

Bill Baker is a Suffolk Farmer and is the new honorary director of the Suffolk Show.

His three year tenure starts with this year and his first show, on May 28 and 29

Have you always lived in Suffolk?

Yes, I grew up in Elmswell and went to school at Culford. I went on to study agriculture at Writtle near Chelmsford and then went travelling for a year around the world. I came back to work for the family farm in 1986.

What makes the county special?

Much of Suffolk is unspoilt with beautiful countryside and a fantastic coastline. We are so lucky to still have so many ‘chocolate box’ villages with lovely old houses, traditional pubs and village greens. Suffolk people are also what makes Suffolk what it is, with such personality and generosity.

Do you enjoy walking?

I love walking, we have three dogs and are very lucky to have a great area on our doorstep to go for long, leisurely walks with them and the children.

My wife, Kate, comes from East Suffolk so we spend quite a lot of time there especially at her family farm which has a beautiful ancient wood.

Do you like to eat out?

I have to admit that it is hard to beat a special meal at home with a nice bottle of wine but when I do go out I feel a bit spoilt for choice with great places to eat in Suffolk. I seem to be on a bit of a “Crown” theme but I love the Crown at Woodbridge, the Crown at Ufford, Bildeston Crown and the Crown at Stoke-by-Nayland.

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essentialsuffolk.com

Are there any pubs you would recommend for a quiet pint?

Again, there are so many places in this county to choose from but I do enjoy going to the Six Bells at Felsham, Queen’s Head at Hawkedon, the White Horse at Whepstead and the Queen’s Head at Brandeston.

Adnams or Greene King?

I know that this sounds very diplomatic but I do actually enjoy a pint of Adnams when I am in east Suffolk and a pint of Greene King in west Suffolk and I love them both.

Where do you like to shop?

I enjoy shopping and love visiting some of our wonderful farm shops such as Friday Street Farm at Farnham, Hollow Trees at Semer and the Suffolk Food Hall at Wherstead. When it comes to clothes shopping I tend to visit Trotter & Deane in Bury St Edmunds, O & C Butcher in Aldeburgh, Coes in Ipswich and High Flyers in Battisford.

Do you support a particular charity?

The Suffolk Agricultural Association is a charity that I devote a large proportion of my time towards supporting. In 2009 my father died from motor neurone disease so the MNDA which works towards a cure, along with supporting those suffering from this cruel illness, is close to my heart. I am pleased that this charity will be one of three beneficiaries of the proceeds from the Suffolk Show Ball this year.

Do you have an interest in the arts?

I do enjoy all forms of art. My musical tastes are fairly broad, I attended Latitude at Henham a couple of years ago which had such a fantastic variety of music and arts in a beautiful setting.

There are some wonderful artists in Suffolk too such as David John Leathers who paints the most amazing still life and I love the work of Sophie Martin as well.

If you had to take newcomers on a tour of Suffolk where would you go?

Anybody that has not been to Suffolk before has to visit places such as Lavenham, Long Melford and Kersey to see the amazing historical buildings and beautiful landscapes. I would also want to show them the coastal towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold with the wonderful art galleries and places to eat, you can’t beat a bracing walk along the coast.

Have you any hobbies?

In my youth, I loved to play rugby and have great memories of playing for Thurston Rugby Club. Nowadays, I am strictly just a spectator! I also love to shoot, ski and play golf.

Is there one picture that perfectly illustrates the county?

Definitely an aerial photo of the Suffolk Show!

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