Essential Suffolk April 2015

April 2015 | Priceless

Essential SUFFOLK

EASTER Fun days out in Suffolk

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CELEBRATING ALL THAT MAKES OUR COUNTY GREAT

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

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

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

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

Paul Newman Designer paul@newman-design.com

| Welcome

WELCOME Traditionally Easter is always a turning point in the year. Of course the days are longer, so you can walk, run or cycle in the evenings after work but there’s also more to see and do at the weekends as museums, stately homes and attractions are now open for the season. Our Easter days out pages for instance include Leiston’s Long Shop Museum, Languard Fort in Felixstowe, Southwold Pier and Dunwich Heath and beach but if you are looking for more inspiration check out our What's On pages. For those who like music, Snape Maltings has a special weekend over Easter with performances of work by Strauss, Stravinsky and Britten. Meanwhile on the art and the food front, the Alde Valley Spring Festival, which attracts people from right across the south of England, launches on April 18.

This month Essential Suffolk has met some extraordinary people, including artist Joe Lubbock who is approaching his 100th birthday.

Amazingly he started out in life as an engineer working on the prototypes of the Spitfire and helping to design not just the Wellington bomber but the first computer as well! Then he switched careers and became an artist and has his work, published in exquisite hand-printed books, can be found in the top libraries all over the world. We’ve also been along to Dance East to find out about a ground-breaking ballet project, which is helping people with Parkinson’s disease.

As ever we bring you everything you need to know about living and shopping in Suffolk with new Spring and Summer fashions, home and interior ideas, food and the latest properties for sale.

Until next month don’t forget to keep up-to-date with what's going on by following us on Twitter @EssentialSFK and visiting our website essentialsuffolk.com

Anne Gould See all our Social photos at essentialsuffolk.com

Anne Gould Editor editor@achievemoremedia.co.uk

Follow us on twitter @EssentialSFK

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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.

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Contents

21

08

46 61

54

74

FEATURES

98

24 28

REGULARS

30 33

Minnie Moll from East of England Co-op

52

Pub Dog Walk

54

Food and Drink

From The Greyhound in Lavenham

Easter Days Out Ideas for Easter family days

In Memory of Charlotte Suffolk’s Young Farmers competition in memory of Charlotte Cobbald

Dance with Parkinson’s Ground-breaking English National Ballet programme at Dance East

13 14 21

A Community of Care The work of St Elizabeth Hospice and volunteer fundraising efforts

PEOPLE

08

My Suffolk

Joe Lubbock Centenary celebrations for an artist and engineer

38 46

Suffolk in Brief News from around the county

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

Mini Previews Alde Valley Spring Festival, Oysters by Eastern Angles, The Secret Adversary at the New Wolsey Ipswich, Cartographie Luminaire – exhibition by Bill Jackson at Halesworth New Cut.

Fashion

The new Brasserie Bleu at The White Lion in Aldeburgh, recipe from the Sibton White Horse plus our gallery full of ideas for eating out

61 70 74 77

Homes & Interiors

91

Essential Faces

Curtains and blinds

Antiques & Auctions A blast from the past

Gardening Top 10 plants for summer

Property A selection of our county’s finest homes for sale

Spring and Summer 2015

Weddings Choosing your rings

Highlights from Suffolk’s social calendar

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Suffolk People | Joe Lubbock

100 YEARS OF INNOVATION There can’t be many people who look to publish a book on their 100th birthday.. . but there aren’t many people like Suffolk artist Joe Lubbock.

Anne Gould talks to him about his life

T

here’s a notion that job hopping or multiple career changes is something new and very modern.

Talk to Suffolk artist and writer Joe Lubbock and if anything this concept looks rather out of date. But then Joe is a bit of a trail blazer; during the war he worked on the prototype of the Spitfire, he was involved in the development of the Wellington bomber and also helped build the first computer.

and who is credited with inventing bank holidays. Joe did an engineering degree at Trinity College Cambridge and his first job on the brink of the Second World War was building the Spitfire.

“I wasn’t involved in the design all I had

to do was put it together” he says modestly. “The test pilot who flew it said it was slightly tail heavy so I put two big lumps of lead in the nose just below the propeller. My next job was with Barnes Wallis, who designed the bouncing bomb. We were working on designing the Wellington bomber. I had to work out the different stresses on the plane when different sizes of bombs were released.”

As a member of the Royal Engineers, his war also included a spell with bomb disposal in London and he also went to France, helping rebuild the railways which were destroyed by the Nazis.

Then, in an amazing about turn he became an artist. “I was about 42 and got less and less interested in engineering and more and more interested in art” he explained. What's more, he became an artist of some note, with his first limited edition and hand printed book being bought by the Victoria and Albert Museum. All 13 subsequent books have been taken up by major university libraries across the UK, the Queen has copies at Windsor and there are also copies at the United States Congress in Washington DC. On top of that he and his wife Ruth have, before the times of mass tourism, travelled the world and been to some of the most inaccessible places; Joe has also distinguished himself as a sailor.

After the war he worked for Elliott Bros at Boreham Wood getting involved, among other things, on Cold War guided missiles and the first ever computer.

“I designed the circuitry for the computer, it took a year or two and was the size of a small room. The thing about working as an engineer however, is that you never see the same problem twice.” For instance, another of his jobs involved helping Birds Eye make sure they filled their tins with just the right number of peas. “Apparently, if one too many peas went into a tin they could lose millions,” he said.

He was born in Norfolk and grew up in a distinguished family. His great great uncle was Sir John Lubbock, Lord Avebury the biologist and politician who was a contemporary of Charles Darwin

Then one day, says Joe, he saw a small landscape picture by Renoir and was absolutely enthralled. “I started looking at more and more art and then decided to become an artist.” ‰

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Suffolk People | Joe Lubbock

He was inspired by Mediaeval illuminated manuscripts and as a result he’s published his work in book form.

But these were no ordinary books – they were exquisitely bound and hand printed on handmade paper on a special press in his Suffolk studio. Each edition lovingly put together, taking three years to make. They were published in limited edition only and Joe, being Joe, even invented a new way of printing multicoloured etchings.

His work draws on the beauty of the Suffolk landscape and his travels to the remoter parts of the world including the Himalayas, the Galapagos Islands and the Antarctic. His prints are produced from copper plates worked by etching, deep etching aquatint and engraving.

The colours are applied by hand and completed by wash. His books sell all over the world and his pictures have a surprisingly modern and enduring appeal with one currently appearing in

an exhibition in New Zealand and featuring in a YouTube video.

Back in the 90s, he had a solo exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum, which saw posters of his show advertised throughout the London underground. This subsequently transferred to the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge where he remains the only living artist to have ever exhibited there.

Times change though, and Joe’s new book, like his last, is being produced by a commercial printer. His new work will feature many of the oil paintings he has created through the years.

In addition to all this Joe has been wellknown throughout the sailing world as a yachtsman. He and Ruth moved to Suffolk 50 years ago because he wanted to be close to the water and although he doesn't sail anywhere nearly as much as he used to, with views of the River Deben from his home the sea is never

far away. But like everything, Joe is very unassuming about his achievements.

It turns out that he regularly won Flying Fifteen races at Cowes week on the Isle of Wight and also took part in the ocean events as well. He says with some amusement, “One year on the front page of the Times newspaper there was a big picture of the Duke of Edinburgh at Cowes. The story said, ‘Brilliant Royal helmsman, the Duke of Edinburgh comes second at Cowes’. In tiny print, right at the bottom it said, JG Lubbock came first.”

Guess what he wants for his 100th birthday – a big family get together with his two surviving children, nine grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren but he’s also hoping for a trip on the river!

INFORMATION www.jglubbock.com

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News

SUFFOLK in brief

Alex and Naomi Tarry are delighted to announce that Matthew Piercy has been promoted to Director at Best Estates.

After a very successful first year, Alex and Naomi are looking forward to working with Matthew to implement their ambitious growth plans for the business. “It has been an absolute privilege to build this exciting Estate Agency with Alex and Naomi. My experience within the market combined with Alex and Naomi’s expertise with marketing, branding and business growth, has been the perfect recipe for success”

The Crown at Great Glenham is due to re-open at the end of May with local chef Richard Andrews and his wife at the helm.

Richard has most recently been the head chef at Middleton Bell where he helped them win the Good Pub Guide’s Best Value Dining Pub in 2012.

Felixstowe’s iconic Spa Pavilion is now in new hands and is set to re-open later this year. The new owner, NRG Theatres, is to hold an informal event at the Spa to introduce themselves, launch their plans and engage with the community on 5 June 2015.

NRG has been formed specifically to save the Spa, and whilst it has already secured sufficient financial backing to refurbish the building it also wishes to work closely with local theatre groups and other community ventures to put The Spa on to a sustainable commercial footing.The exciting plans for the Spa include a cosmetic refurbishment of the front of house, kitchen, bar & restaurant areas to enable a short summer season of touring events and the re-opening of full restaurant and bar facilities, in partnership with a wellknown caterer. This will be followed by a full refurbishment of the auditorium and back of house areas, designed to enable the production of a wide-ranging programme of theatre and entertainment later in 2016. Ray Anderson, Chief Executive of NRG Theatres said: “We have been working with the Council for several months to find a solution

which will enable our backers to invest the required funds to allow us to restore the Spa to its heyday.” Cllr Geoff Holdcroft, Suffolk Coastal’s cabinet member whose portfolio includes the theatre, said: “I am extremely pleased that NRG Theatres Ltd is taking on Spa Pavilion Theatre and look forward to seeing a rejuvenation of the building under its new ownership.” If you would like an invitation to the launch event, or wish to find out more about the opportunities for local theatre productions, please contact Ray Anderson at ray.anderson@spapavilion.net by 18 May.

Ipswich Operatic & Dramatic Society is celebrating its 60th Anniversary with a production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard from Wednesday May 20 to Saturday May 23. The big budget show offers a superb score and clever lyrics performed by the multi-award winning society, with a live orchestra and a chorus of 40 local actors. Ipswich Operatic and Dramatic Society are the first to secure the performing rights licence in East Anglia after its successful run in the West End. With popular songs including ‘A perfect year’, ‘With one look’, ‘As if we never said goodbye’, ‘New ways to dream’ and, of course, the haunting ‘Sunset Boulevard’ this masterpiece is not to be missed. Tickets are now on sale via the Ipswich Regent Box Office – call them on 01473 433100 or book on line at www.ipswichregenttheatre.co.uk

Details about one of the most popular trivia events in Ipswich have just been released.

The Hearing Care Centre, which offers private hearing care across Suffolk and Norfolk, is again organising one of Ipswich’s biggest quiz events, to help raise money for Age UK Suffolk and Hearing Dogs For Deaf People.The event is being held on Sunday 10th May 2015 (7pm), at Greshams Sports and Social Club, on Tuddenham Road, Ipswich and your support is needed to make it a fantastic night. BBC Radio Suffolk Presenter Mark Murphy will also be compere for the

More news can always be found at www.essentialsuffolk.com/content

evening. This is the ninth trivia fundraiser organised by the company, having raised more than £11,500 so far from their previous events.To purchase tickets call The Hearing Care Centre on 01473 230330.

Suffolk farmers and landowners are being given the opportunity to quiz representatives from the main political parties on the key rural issues that mean most to them ahead of the General Election. CLA East is hosting a free-to-attend live debate at Wingfield Barns, near Diss, on Tuesday 21 April (4pm until 6pm) with focus on the countryside and rural economy. All CLA members attending are invited to submit a question on a key rural issue for consideration when they book their place – a number will then be selected and asked during the debate.To book your place online, visit www.cla-east.sym-online.com/ registrationforms/hustingsdiss

Barclays staff recently hosted a charity quiz night which took place at Seckford Golf Club.

The event, was in aid of the work done by local charity Inspire Suffolk and also the Suffolk Punch Trust. 23 teams battled for the title of champions with the team from Ensors Accountants narrowly beating solicitors Barker Gotelee in a tense tie breaker. The evening was a huge success with over £3,400 pounds being raised on the night, to be shared between Inspire Suffolk and the Suffolk Punch Trust. CEO for Inspire Suffolk,Terry Baxter said: “This is a tremendous amount of money to be donated to Inspire Suffolk and we thank Colin and the team at Barclays for their support and general interest in the work of our charity.”

The winners of the Suffolk Coastal Business and Community Awards were recently revealed at a sparkling awards ceremony at The Hangar at milsoms Kesgrave Hall. The winners can be seen on page 93.

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APRIL 2015

WHAT’S ON APRIL 1

APRIL 1 – 2

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Disney’s Aladdin Jr.

Ipswich Regent

Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge

Conductor Barry Wordsworth, piano Freddy Kempf. “The delicacy of his touch was almost excruciating…” Timeout. Pre-concert performance by Suffolk Youth Brass Ensemble.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.regent.com

Imagine if you had three wishes, three hopes, three dreams and they could all come true!

Tickets: £12 Box Office: 01473 295900 www.thechildrenstheatrecompany.co.uk

Flix in The Stix

APRIL 3

Lavenham Village Hall and Events Centre, 7.30 pm

Crucifixion

The 100 Foot Journey - Helen Mirren.

An evening of film on the big screen.

Refreshments served during a short interval.

Tickets: £4 Information: 01787 248599 Salute to the 1940s

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 2.30pm The Ultimate Wartime Variety Show, packed full of tributes to the stars who kept the nation entertained during the dark years of the world wars.

Tickets: £15 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

St John the Baptist Church, Campsea Ashe, 7pm The Gippeswyk Singers Chamber Choir conducted by Geoff Lavery are performing Crucifixion by John Stainer, a beautiful and moving choral work which vividly portrays the events of Christ's crucifixion.

Entry: Free with retiring collection

APRIL 3 – 4 Easter at Aldeburgh Music

instrumental and vocal music by Clément Janequin, Lambert, Marais, Charpentier, Purcell and others I Fagiolini

Snape, 8pm With works by Schütz (St John Passion, Seven Last Words) and Victoria (Lamentations, Motets and Divisions for Holy Week) Box office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk

APRIL 4 The Amazing Bubble Man

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds 11am and 1.30pm The international hit show with bubble art, magic, science and lots of fun. Louis Pearl is the world’s leading bubbleologist and has been delighting family audiences with his unique show for nearly 30 years.

Tickets: £12.50 (under 14s £10 / family £40) Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

Five concerts, ranging from Richard Strauss to the splendour of 16th and 17th century music for Holy Week.

• FRIDAY APRIL 3 Metamorphosen

Snape, 7.30pm Transcendent music for string orchestra by Strauss, Britten and Stravinsky performed

by Aldeburgh Strings with Lorenzo Soules (piano) and Markus Däunert (director) • SATURDAY APRIL 4 Symphonies of Winds

Farmers Markets

Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Metfield, Village Hall 9am – 12 noon Snape Maltings, 9.30am – 1pm Jimmy’s Farm, 10am – 2pm

Snape, 11am Aldeburgh Winds play Strauss, Stravinsky and Britten with Nicholas Daniel (director/oboe)

The Selion Swing Band

St Peter’s by the Waterfront, Ipswich Box Office: 01473 225269 www.stpetersbythewaterfront.com

Aldeburgh Voices Dr Hook featuring Ray Sawyer

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm With hit including Sylvia’s Mother, The Cover of Rolling Stone, A Little Bit More and When You’re in Love with a Beautiful Woman.

Tickets: £26.50 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

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Orford Church, 3pm Choral music by Brahms and Mendelssohn with Ben Parry (conductor) Solomon’s Knot: Pour un tombeau d’Anatole

Britten Studio, Snape, 6pm Dramatised concert of 17th-century French and English music featuring

APRIL 4 – MAY 6 Cartographie Luminaire Exhibition by Bill Jackson

Snape Maltings See mini preview page 21 Box office: 01728 687110 www.billjackson.biz

What’s On APRIL 5

APRIL 5 – 6

APRIL 7 – 11

The Magic of Minsmere

Magic Ear Exhibition

Agatha Christie’s The Secret Adversary

RSPB Minsmere, near Dunwich

Bawdsey Radar, 12.30pm – 4.30pm

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

If you've never been to Minsmere, then this is the walk for you. www.rspb.org.uk/Minsmere

With its interactive displays this unique exhibition tells the story of the ‘invention that changed the world’. www.bawdseyradar.org.uk

See mini preview page 21 Box office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Easter Steam-Up

Mid-Suffolk Light Railway, Wetheringsett All three locomotives will be in action at this Easter themed weekend www.mslr.org.uk Dreaming of Kate

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm With a remarkable resemblance to Kate Bush in vocal style and appearance, plus fantastic live band, costume changes and dance routines, singer and performer Maaike Breijman brings the Kate Bush live experience to Bury St Edmunds.

Tickets: £19 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

APRIL 9 APRIL 7 I've Never Noticed That Before An Evening of Chamber Music

St Mary’s Church, Debenham, 7pm Given by the Ennead Ensemble; nonets by Spohr and Martinu (for wind and strings), UK Premier of Muchova's Variations on a Scottish Ballad.

Tickets: £9 (Under 25s £5 / Family Ticket £25) Tickets available from Deben Rose, Debenham Woodbridge Violins, Woodbridge Balaams Music, Bury St Edmunds or reserve via enneadensemble@btinternet.com

To see more event listings for this month and beyond visit

Tourist Information Centre, St Stephen’s Church, Ipswich, 2pm Discover the hidden secrets around Ipswich on this guided tour. Including secret doors, carved faces and much more.

Information: 01473 258070 Michael Ball

Ipswich Regent Britain's leading musical theatre star, a double Olivier Award winner, multi-platinum recording artist and a hugely popular radio and TV presenter on tour.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.regent.com

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WED 6 - SAT 16 MAY AT THE NEW WOLSEY THEATRE Book online at wolseytheatre.co.uk

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SAVE ££s Online

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APRIL 2015

APRIL 10

APRIL 12

APRIL 14 – 18

An evening of murder with Dr Lucy Worsley

Fleamarket

Macbeth

Westleton Village Hall, 10am – 4pm

Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds

An amazing array of authentic, attractive and amusing artefacts for you to acquire.

Entry: 50p (under 16s free) Information: 01728 648277

Tara Arts in association with Queen’s Hall Arts and Black Theatre Live directed by Jatinder Verma. This production brings Indian movement and live music to Shakespeare starring Robert Mountfors and Shaheen Khan. www.theatreroyal.org

Mercury Theatre, Colchester An illustrated tour through the dark story of our fascination with murder, with Dr Lucy Worsley, BBC TV presenter, renowned historian and Chief Curator at the charity Historic Royal Palaces.

Box Office: 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Farmers Markets

Assington, The Barn 10am – 2pm I Make Fun Stuff

APRIL 11 Farmers Markets

Halesworth, Town Centre 9am – 1pm Woodbridge, Community Centre 9am – 1pm

Ipswich Town Hall 10am – 4pm

APRIL 16

Craft and Vintage Market www.imakefunstuff.co.uk

Kate Rusby

Classic Vehicle Road Run – Halesworth to Snape

Snape Maltings, 11.45pm On display will be a very eclectic mix of vehicles from pre-war Austins and Morrises to Rileys, Wolseleys and various other British and Continental makes now, sadly, defunct.

Weather permitting there will be some vintage military vehicles.

Information: 01502 725038

For decades, she has performed alongside some of the world’s finest artists including Queen, Roger Daltrey, Jeff Beck, and Cher; but her most recognizable role was that of the Powerhouse Female Vocalist for the legendary artist Meat Loaf.

Tickets: £20 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk London Omnibus

Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge Presented by A Class Act four musicians perform the popular music of the 1920s and ’30s plus comedy and novelty features, a recall of the days of Music Hall.

Tickets: £15 Box office: 0333 666 3366 www.aclassact.org.uk

APRIL 11 – 15 Framlingham Country Show and The Suffolk Food, Drink & Music Festival

Framlingham College A fantastic day out for the whole family there is something for everyone at this Country show from cookery demonstrations to gardening talks and rural crafters to archery.

New for 2015 is the Festival of Dogs.

Entry: £6 (Concession £5, Child (5-13) £2, Children 5 and under free) www.framcountryshow.co.uk 16

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Enjoy a selection of much-loved classics spanning her two decades of music making, together with fresh new songs from her latest album Ghost.

Tickets: £25 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

APRIL 16 – 25 The Crucible

Patti Russo

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds

APRIL 14 Jimmy Webb

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm Legendary songwriter of classics such as Wichita Lineman, By the Time I Get to Phoenix, MacArthur Park, Up Up and Away and more. Live renditions will be interspersed with riveting and hilarious tales of the Swinging Sixties, the Rat Pack, the London Mod scene and much more.

Tickets: 22.50 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

New Wolsey Studio, Ipswich 50 years on from its UK premiere Arthur Miller's tale of religious hysteria in the infamous witch trials of 1692 is a masterpiece of social and political commentary and a timely warning on how profound religious loyalty can be manipulated by those seeking to serve their own ends.

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

APRIL 17

APRIL 14 – 16 Blood Wedding

New Wolsey, Ipswich In this day and age, anybody can love anybody. Or are there still taboos? David Ireland’s radical new take on Lorca’s play re-fuels this classic story with a contemporary twist.

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

Jonny & the Baptists Rock the Vote

New Wolsey, Ipswich Following their acclaimed, news-making Stop UKIP Tour, the UK's hottest musical comedians Jonny & the Baptists once again bring their blend of songs, satire and silliness to the nation. Taking on the big issues ahead of the May 2015 general election.

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

What’s On Edith Cavell, Facing the Silence

A Treasure Chest of Toys

Farmers Markets

The Cut, Halesworth

Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge

1915, English nurse Edith Cavell has been captured by the Germans and condemned to death. She is facing seventy days of silence before her execution. Out of the silence, Edith reconstructs her previous world of Edwardian certainties, family love, favourite people and songs. Can she also find meaning in what remains of her short life, defending compassion in the face of total war? This exciting new play is a joyous, life-affirming celebration of a woman whose trailblazing life will never be forgotten. www.newcut.org

Presented by the Marwyn School of Dancing.

Box office: 01473 211498 www.easternangles.co.uk

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

La boheme, Shackleton’s Cat and The Wild Men of the West Indies

Snape Maltings English Touring Opera presents one of the best-loved of all operas alongside two extraordinary, little-known jewels of Italian opera composed by bel canto virtuoso, Gaetano Donizett.

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

APRIL 17 AND 18 Wilkie Branson and Sally Cookson

Jerwood Dance House, Ipswich This exhilarating dance-theatre show is choreographed by B-boy and Sadler’s Wells New Wave associate Wilkie Branson. Based on the award-winning book by Helen Ward.

Tickets: £12 Box office: 01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk

APRIL 18 4 Parts Guitar

Trianon at St Johns

St John the Baptist Church, Cauldwell Hall Road, Ipswich A programme of great works from the Romantic period, when tunes really mattered, and when music often reflected the move to national identities in countries such as Finland and Italy. Guest conductor, Stephen Rumsey, makes a welcome return to conduct Trianon’s Choir and Orchestra.

Works by Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, Sibelius and Verdi.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.regent.com Strictly Vintage Fair

New Cut, Halesworth

The Old School, Long Melford. 10am – 4pm

4 Parts Guitar delight their audiences with remarkable guitar playing. Interweaving their magical playing, exploring their expert knowledge and sharing their love of music, the mutual respect shines out. www.newcut.org

The Strictly Vintage Fair returns to Long Melford. Jam packed with over 40 stalls, there's something for everyone from homeware, clothing and accessories to furniture, textiles and curiosities plus all day refreshments.

Information: Patsy 07950 717466

The season for Al Fresco dining has arrived

Eating outdoors is one of life’s great pleasures and Deben Inns are blessed with some perfect venues to do it.

Why not visit The Butt & Oyster at Pin Mill or The Maybush at Waldringfield both with beautiful river views. Alternatively come and see us at The Fox Inn at Newbourn with its quiet pretty gardens festooned with beautiful flowers.

Fancy a walk?

All our inns are dog friendly and suggested circular walks from each can be found on our website.

Get the Deben Inns app for our latest news and offers. Simply search Deben Inns in the app store and follow the simple instructions.

www.debeninns.co.uk The Butt & Oyster Pin Mill, Ipswich IP9 1JW 01473 780764

The Maybush Cliff Rd, Waldringfield IP12 4QL 01473 736215

The Coach & Horses Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1PD 01394 384851

Had a day at the coast?

Call in at one of our other inns on your way home. The Swan at Westerfield, The Coach & Horses at Melton and The Wilford Bridge are all perfect spots for an evening meal.

The Swan Westerfield Road Westerfield, IP6 9AJ 01473 251447

The Wilford Bridge Wilford Bridge Rd Melton, IP12 2PA 01394 386141

The Fox Inn The Street, Newbourne IP12 4NY 01473 736307

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APRIL 2015

The Pasadena Roof Orchestra

APRIL 21

APRIL 23 – 25

Mike and the Mechanics

The Green Children

Ipswich Regent

Red Rose Chain, Ipswich

Genesis founding member Mike Rutherford joins forces with a new generation Mike & The Mechanics.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.regent.com

Who are they? Where did they come from?

Why are they green? An innovative new piece of sensory theatre inspired by the famous myth. This inspirational new show has been developed for an audience of teenagers with disabilities and additional needs that can be enjoyed with their family and friends. The Green Children invites you into a world where play, feeling and expression can be experienced by everybody in their own way. So come and join us for an immersive adventure into Woolpit woods…

Box office: 01473 603388 www.redrosechain.com

New Wolsey, Ipswich Since 1969 the Orchestra has been faithfully re-creating the glories of popular music from the 1920’s and 1930’s.

Box office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk The Sound of Wales in Suffolk

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds The London Welsh Rugby Club Male Voice Choir Tickets: 16 – £12 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

APRIL 18 – MAY 17 Alde Valley Spring Festival

See mini preview page 23 www.aldevalleyspringfestival.co.uk

APRIL 20 – 25 Oysters

Sir John Mills Theatre, Ipswich See mini preview page 23 www.easternangles.co.uk

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APRIL 22 In The Steps Of The Tudors

Tourist Information Centre, St Stephen’s Church, Ipswich, 2pm Hear the stories of visits from royals and explorers who settled the New World.

Cost: £8 per person including refreshments Booking: 01473 258070

APRIL 23 – 30 APRIL 23 Evening Serenade

Royal Hospital School, Ipswich An evening of songs by the great composers featuring works from the great masters.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.regent.com

World Factory

New Wolsey, Ipswich What do we really know about the world behind the labels on our clothes? METIS has set out to investigate the UK-China background to contemporary clothing manufacture, talking to everyone from clothing makers and menders in Ipswich to

What’s On factory workers in Shanghai. World Factory is a live multimedia show that shares the stories discovered along the way.

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

Farmers Markets

Lavenham Sinfonia

Woodbridge, Community Centre, 9am – 1pm

Lavenham Church, 7pm

APRIL 26 La Traviata

Ipswich Regent

APRIL 24 Sounds of Spring (and breakfast)

RSPB Minsmere A sound tour you won’t forget. Suitable for beginners, these walks are a great opportunity to learn birdsong. The walk will end with a light breakfast and hot drink in the cafe. www.rspb.org.uk/Minsmere

Opera & Ballet International proudly presents Verdi’s outstanding interpretation of one of the most popular love stories of the 19th century, La Dame aux Camelias.

Based on a true story, it tells of the passionate loves and life of the consumptive courtesan, Violetta.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.regent.com

Sibelius Finlandia, Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto (Fenella Humphreys), Dvorak Symphony No 9 'From the New World'.

Tickets: £12 in advance, £14 at the door (under 18's free) from Lavenham Guildhall Shop 01787 247646, Compact Music Sudbury 01787 881160 or via www.easternangles.co.uk Farmers Market

Lavenham, Village Hall, 10am – 1.30pm

APRIL 30 Ipswich School Spring Concert

Snape Maltings

Suffolk Sportive 2015

Alton Water, 7.30am – 5pm

APRIL 25 Ipswich Hospital Band Anzac Concert

St Peters By the Watefront, Ipswich The Ipswich Hospital Band will be holding a concert to commemorate Anzac Day and all Australians and New Zealanders “who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations”.

Information: 01473 225269 www.stpetersbythewaterfront.com

The inaugural Suffolk Sportive, starting and finishing in the gorgeous surroundings of Alton Water. There are four different cycle routes: The full 80 mile route, a shorter 40 mile route, a 10 mile family route and an 8 mile off-road circuit at Alton Water. www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/events

An opportunity to enjoy the main annual concert from Ipswich school.

Box office 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit

essentialsuffolk.com/whatson

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www.suffolkshow.co.uk

info@gilman-earledesign.com www.gilman-earledesign.com

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Mild and moderate chemical peels.

Treatment for facial veins, sun damage and age spots.

Micro dermabrasion.

Permanent hair reduction.

Treatments offered at Radiant Beautiful Medical in Woodbridge.

Nether Haugh, 6 North Hill, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1HH t: 01394 386877 e: kathy@drkathywalker.com www.drkathywalker.com

Back Pain?

We have the team to help

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR WARDROBE FOR SPRING WITH OUR NEW SEASON’S COLLECTIONS 11 Market Place, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6EA 01502 722372 info@dennyofsouthwold.co.uk www.dennyofsouthwold.co.uk Open everyday

STUART CLAY TRAPS Country sports, fishing and clothing specialists We stock most makes of: • Shotgun, rifles and air rifles • Men’s, ladies and children’s clothing and boots • Sporting guns • Fishing tackle and equipment • Full range of fishing accessories and fresh bait

Mark Piper, Osteopath and founding partner of Gilmour Piper has over 23 years’ experience in treating back pain in both the private and NHS setting. He is the Consultant osteopath to Ipswich Town F.C. and clinical examiner of students for schools of Osteopathy in the UK and Europe. Uniquely, in Suffolk, under one roof our team of specialists offer the following solutions:

Stockists of: • LE CHAMEAU • LAKSEN • HOGGS • AIGLE • DEER HUNTER • MUSTO • HUCKLECOTE

Osteopathy s Physiotherapy s Spinal Surgery s Chiropody/ Podiatry s Pilates s Acupuncture & Hypnotherapy Contact us today and let your recovery begin.

10 Fonnereau Road, Ipswich IP1 3JP (01473) 217592 www.gilmourpiper.co.uk practice@gilmourpiper.co.uk

Excellence in musculoskeletal healthcare 20

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Stuart Clay Traps Ltd 3a & 3b Wilford Bridge Road Melton, Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1RB 01394 385567 sales@stuartsgunsandtackle.com www.stuartsgunandtackle.com

STOCKISTS OF: Gurteen | Magee Meyer | Ben Green Barbour | Saint James and new for this season Men of all Nations

Mini Previews

CARTOGRAPHIE LUMINAIRE – EXHIBITION BY BILL JACKSON Snape Maltings. April 4 – May 6

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S THE SECRET ADVERSARY New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich.

April 7 – 11

Award-winning conceptual artist/photographer Bill Jackson sees the world in a slightly different way from the rest of us.

While most take pictures in the day and in the light he likes taking pictures at night, in the seeming dark. But – night isn’t as dark as you might imagine. Although Bill’s work is internationally acclaimed he’s made Suffolk his home and this exhibition is an opportunity to see a range of his work.

Bill uses automatic remote drawing techniques in the landscape exploring ideas on drawing, measurement and mapping, in timed exposure photography. So there’s an image ‘periscope' which was produced at night on the Suffolk Coast and, says Bill, uses the visual metaphor of a submarine, looking at how we perceive the distance from one point to another in a landscape.

This year Britain is celebrating Agatha Christie’s 125th anniversary and what better way to remember the undoubted Queen of the ‘Murder Mystery’ with a brand new stage version of one of her books. Fresh from its world stage premier at The Watermill Theatre, Newbury The Secret Adversary, visits the New Wolsey from April 7-11.

It’s the first new stage adaptation of Christie’s work in over a decade and Agatha Christie Limited chose the awardwinning Watermill Theatre to bring this production to the stage. This new adaptation by Sarah Punshon and Johann Hari promises fast-paced action, shot through with comedy, romance and live music.

The Secret Adversary introduces crime-fighting duo Tommy and Tuppence to the stage for the very first time with Emerald O’Hanrahan (of Archers fame) and Garmon Rhys playing the roles of Tuppence and Tommy.

It follows the daring and dizzying adventures of the duo through 1920s London. Home from the First World War, flatbroke and unemployed, our intrepid young heroes embark on an outlandish business scheme: ‘The Young Adventurers Limited’ – willing to go anywhere, willing to do anything.

Their first assignment plunges them into more danger than they ever imagined and they quickly find themselves sucked into a perilous world of political intrigue, criminal conspiracy, murder and mayhem. Will the nation survive?

And who exactly is Mr. Brown?

There are pictures from his series ‘Imaginary People Cabinet of Curiosity’ where imaginary people were created from old paper dress patterns in Bill’s studio. Also on show in the Cafe Gallery are selected pictures from the Maverick Festival Red Sofa Sessions. In 2014 Bill Jackson and Paul Spencer of Maverick got together to realise an idea that became The Red Sofa Sessions. Shot in a pop up studio at the festival, performers and festival goers were invited to sit on the now iconic Maverick Red Sofa and the results are soon to be published in a new book. Nine images from a total of 58 are showing in the Cafe Gallery including 'Hank Wangford and Anna Spanner Robinson’.

INFORMATION Box office: 01473 2958900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

INFORMATION Box office: 01728 687110 www.billjackson.biz

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Mini Previews

ALDE VALLEY SPRING FESTIVAL 2015 White House Farm, Great Glemham.

April 18 – May 17 The Alde Valley Spring Festival started 12 years ago as a small two week art exhibition in a cottage next to All Saints Church in Great Glemham. Since then it’s grown year on year into a four-week programme of open farm events celebrating the importance of food, landscape and the arts in our farming heritage, both locally and internationally. As it’s grown so has the number of visitors from right across East Anglia, London and further afield, including some of the UK's top artists and innovators. Over the years, it has also seeded sister projects, the largest being its twin festival Pesta Nukenen in the Kelabit Highlands of Sarawak, Heart of Borneo.

This year the Festival Exhibition includes works by Stuart Anderson, Melanie Comber, Daisy Cook, Peter Dibble, Marchela Dimitrova, Clara Drummond, Laurence Edwards, Alice-Andrea Ewing, Richard Elliott, Meriel Ensom, George FarrowHawkins, Linda Farrow, Tobias Ford, Jason Gathorne-Hardy, Kate Giles, Emma Green, Jelly Green, Maggi Hambling, Roger Hardy, Mercury Hare, Charlie Hawkins, Craig Hudson, Nienke Jongsma, Tory Lawrence, Caroline MacAdam Clark, Freddy Morris, Tessa Newcomb, Sarah Pirkis, Ruth Stage and Cat Vitebsky.

There will be new chairs on show from The Suffolk Chair Collection by Raymond Hopkins, Jim Parsons, Dylan Pym and Tim Whiting plus an Artist Residency Programme with new artists including Daisy Cook, George FarrowHawkins, Tobias Ford, Charlie Hawkins and Linda Farrow.

Their studios will be open at weekends. There’s also a series of talks and a pop-up cafe. New for 2015 is a programme of Festival Walks and a Woodcraft School introducing foraging and woodcraft skills. The Walks start at White House Farm and are led by Forager/Gardener in Residence Sam Starke meanwhile the Woodcraft School is led by author, teacher and willow worker Jon Warnes.

INFORMATION www.aldevalleyspringfestival.co.uk

OYSTERS Sir John Mills Theatre, Ipswich.

April 20 – 25 Oysters is a new play from Eastern Angles Theatre Company focusing on the restoration of an Essex Oyster Smack. It is described as a tale of sex, boat-building and bivalve molluscs!

It combines historical fact and contemporary fiction, capturing the soul of an ancient local industry and puts its beating heart on stage.

The main character, Mo, has just turned 50 and is busy restoring an oyster dredger recovered from an Essex riverbed.

Helping him bring the boat back to life is Kasey, a young intern with chip on her shoulder, Pamela the formidable fundraiser in charge of the restoration project and the mystical Pearl, an ‘Earth Mother’ with a potent story to tell.

Then, when a piece of Mo’s beloved dredger goes missing their lives are up-ended and the past floats to the surface.

It is written and directed by Ivan Cutting whose previous maritime-related shows include When The Boats Came In (about the Lowestoft fishing industry) and Beyond The Breakers (about East Coast Lifeboat service), and also directing the Arthur Ransome adaptation We Didn’t Mean to Go To Sea and Up Out o’ The Sea. The show incorporates oral history accounts of boatbuilding and Oyster cultivation with the fictional story of an Essex boat builder and his intriguing family back-story. It has been researched and developed as part of the Pioneer Sailing Trust Land and Sea project, which is focused on restoring the 1893 Oyster Smack Priscilla (www.pioneersailingtrust.org.uk).

INFORMATION Tickets: £13 (£12 concessions) There will be a free pre-show talk on Monday 20th 7pm.

Box Office: 01473 211498 or www.easternangles.co.uk

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APRIL 2015

EASTER holiday FUN THE LONG SHOP MUSEUM, LEISTON Just minutes from Snape and Aldeburgh, Leiston Long Shop Museum – an icon of the industrial revolution in Britain – reopens at the end of March for the Easter Holidays. It tells an inspiring story of enterprise and endeavour, by the Garrett family, in this small Suffolk town with its remarkable factory. Displays are housed in a cluster of original grade II listed buildings and among them is the Long Shop itself – named by workers ‘The Cathedral’.

Thanks to help from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the museum has a new look and new strategy for the future and it will reopen on March 28 with a fantastic steam and activity day from 10am – 4pm. There will be large and small engines in steam, including a ‘Sirapite’ shunting engine and the ‘Works Band’ (alias Leiston Royal British Legion Band) will be playing around the museum site during the day.

LANGUARD FORT, FELIXSTOWE Tucked out of the way at the southern end of Felixstowe beach, Landguard Fort is one of England's best-preserved coastal defences, with a history spanning almost 450 years. It was the site of the last opposed seaborne invasion of England in 1667, and also the first land battle of the Royal Marines.

The current Grade I listed Fort was built in the 18th century and modified in the 19th and 20th centuries with outside batteries. It was continuously occupied through both World Wars and up until 1956.

Costumed ‘interpreters’ will also be on hand to lead a variety of hands-on activities for those of all ages and interests.

These include making a nail box, doing some washing the Victorian way, or having a go at creating a plaster copy of an engine part in a sand mould.

With its maze of rooms and passageways, displays, exhibitions and special events it offers something for all ages and interests. This Easter there’s a special trail (March 29April 12) to hunt out the clues around Landguard Fort. On April 1 there’s an Easter Bunny Hunt for children on the nature reserve with fun facts on rabbits and a quiz too. Meet outside the main entrance to Landguard Fort – children £3 (adults free) and there’s no need to book.

Tea, coffee and scrumptious home made cakes will be available throughout the day, with lovely home-made soup available at lunchtime. Come as you are, or come in Victorian/ Edwardian dress to join in the spirit of the event.

From then onwards the Museum will be open seven days per week throughout the school Easter holidays.

On April 5 and 6 there’s a book sale at Felixstowe Museum (next to the fort) in aid of Museum funds. Again admission is free, but normal admission charges apply for entry to the Museum. And on April 8, there’s an Easter Fun Day organised with Touching The Tide with quizzes, games and face-painting, Easter goodies, egg and spoon races and fun wildlife crafts.

INFORMATION 01728 832189 www.longshopmuseum.co.uk

INFORMATION discoverlanguard.org.uk www.touchingthetide.org.uk

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Easter Days Out

The Easter holiday is an ideal time to get out and about in Suffolk and for our younger folk there are plenty of places to visit, explore and enjoy.

Here are just a few Essential highlights

NATIONAL TRUST DUNWICH HEATH & BEACH The remote and beautiful beach and heathland on the clifftops at Dunwich, is well known and loved for walks and days out on the Suffolk coast. A rare and precious habitat, the Heath is home to special species such as the Dartford warbler, nightjar, woodlark, ant-lion, adders and much more. This sort of heathland used to cover much of the Suffolk coast but it has been lost through development and agriculture.

EASTER FUN AT SOUTHWOLD PIER Southwold Pier has some fun filled action packed family days out planned this spring. Professor Philips is back presenting his Punch & Judy show, loved by adults and children alike and there’s balloon modelling between shows over the Easter weekend. Can you find the hidden teasure on the pier? There’s a not-to-be-missed treasure hunt on Easter Sunday with a special appearance from the Easter Bunny who will also be hopping along on Monday as well.

For families who are following the National Trust’s 50 Things to do before you are 11 3/4, your children should be able to tick off 28 items on the list and get the stickers to prove it.

Activities on offer includes bug hunting, pond dipping, snail racing and geocaching. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays they run Ranger lead activities and over the Easter weekend there’s also, as an added treat, an egg hunt.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite don’t forget there’s a picnic area on the clifftop next to the Dunwich Heath Restaurant with magnificent views across the coast and heath.

Even the staff on the Pier will be getting into the swing of Easter with a Bonnet competition and on Easter Monday enjoy Mr Swervy with live jazz on the micro band stand.

Of course all the regular great pier entertainment will be on tap in the House of Games and Under the Pier Show… and watch out for a wacky new attraction!

INFORMATION www.nationaltrust.org.uk

INFORMATION www.southwoldpier.co.uk

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Spring at Snape Maltings Some of life’s simple pleasures to be found at Snape Maltings Pagoda Wool Rug 160 cm x 230 cm £675 House & Garden

Pale Blue Floor Angle Lamp £125 House & Garden

Walberswick Chair £595 House & Garden

Leather tote bag £58 Books & Cards Stunning pieces of handmade jewellery made with semiprecious stones that have been hand cut and calibrated. The entire collection is available in The Gallery

Diffuser £12.50 House & Garden

Ring £60

Rainbow collection of leather notebooks £12.95 each Books & Cards

ADVERTISEMENT

Blossom dandelion collection from ÂŁ12.75 House & Garden

Star wave ceramic collection.

Bowls from ÂŁ5.50 House & Garden

is a collection of stylish independent shops and galleries. Open daily from 10am until 5.30pm with free parking.

Snape Maltings Snape, near Aldeburgh Suffolk IP17 1SR tel:01728 688 303 www.snapemaltings.co.uk

IN CHARLOTTE’S MEMORY Charlotte Cobbald was a sparkling Suffolk Young Farmer with a bright future until her tragic death last summer. Anne Gould talks to her father Stephen about creating a lasting legacy to her memory

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Suffolk People | Charlotte Cobbald

G

rieving father Stephen Cobbald says there’s not a minute of every day that goes by when he and his wife Hilde don’t think about their beautiful daughter, Charlotte. Just ten months ago they were standing in a field surveying a flock of 120 ewes that she had proudly chosen for the farm the previous day and they had brought home to Acton from Oxford. “She turned me and said, ‘They are best bunch of sheep I have ever seen’. Within five minutes she was dead. She was just 17. I was holding her hand and she was dead on the ground I couldn’t believe it.”

Charlotte, he explained, had had been suffering for a year with depression and anorexia nervosa. She was just 17, a fine sportswoman who had represented Suffolk at hockey and Ipswich High School at cross country and netball. Her academic record was exemplary, she achieved 11 A-star grades at GCSE and she was outstanding at everything she turned her hand to. Outside school she was also an enthusiastic, well known and inspirational member of Suffolk Young Farmers and was loved by all.

Her passion was farming and in particular sheep rearing and she loved working her flock with her collie dog, Bob. Charlotte, was also making a name for herself in national sheep dog trials winning a large competition in Scotland and had also been invited to go to the junior England sheepdog trials.

Her tragic death has changed her parents lives for ever – now they are not only campaigning on behalf of other teenagers with depression, anorexia and mental health problems but they are also determined to provide a lasting legacy in the world of farming that she loved so much. “People need to realise that mental health issues are more dangerous for teenagers than any other disease.

Anorexia goes hand-in-hand with depression and 20 per cent of sufferers, mostly teenage girls die prematurely as a result. Only 1 per cent of the NHS budget is spent on mental health – it’s a major problem. Charlotte had been ill no more than a year and had been in hospital for no more than six months.

It’s our opinion that by the time you have a diagnosis it’s almost too late.”

To help specifically with anorexia nervosa Stephen and Hilde have created a memorial fund of £1,000 at the St Aubyn Centre in Colchester where Charlotte was treated for her illness.

They have given a flock of sheep (the Charlotte Cobbald Memorial Flock) to Otley College to show young people the opportunities available for young people in farming. But also this year at the Suffolk Show, Stephen, a former president of the Suffolk Agricultural Association, has established a new event – The Young Farmers Club Stockpersons competition. “It’s the kind of event that Charlotte herself would have loved to have entered and

combines all her passions,” explained Stephen. There are three stages to test all aspects of knowledge – not just showing but stock judging, livestock knowledge and stock handling. Young farmers from Suffolk, North Essex and the Norfolk borders will hold preliminary rounds within their clubs but the final will be held at Trinity Park, he explained. The winners will be announced during the Grand Parade on May 28 with the winning Young Farmers Club receiving £300 and the runners up £150.

Tory Lugsden, the County Organiser for Suffolk Young Farmers says the competition will be a wonderful tribute to Charlotte. She said that everyone was shocked and saddened by Charlotte’s illness and death. “Charlotte was so lovely and such a big supporter of Young Farmers. She was multi-talented, always full of beans and beyond that an inspiration to our younger members.

When we heard she was poorly and in hospital we were so surprised but we kept in touch through letters.” Tory said Charlotte joined the Gipping Valley club when she was just aged ten and had been very active in the organisation ever since. Subsequently, she went on to become the vice-chairman of the club and was very competitive with her flock of Texel sheep. “She was very forwardlooking and even persuaded her father to switch from Suffolk sheep to Texel’s – a Continental breed that produces the best meat. I know Charlotte would have loved this new competition herself, and it’s excellent for young farmers and I know there is going to be a big challenge for the prize from young people in who are serious about sheep”.

Young Farmers is open to anyone in the country – and you don't need to live/work on a farm to be a member.

“Living in the countryside means that you can be quite isolated but we have five junior clubs (aged 10-16) and five senior clubs (16-26) in Suffolk,” says Tory. The clubs give people the opportunity to enter loads of competitions and have fun with friends, she explained. Meetings involve anything from a circus workshop where you could learn how to be a juggler to a farm visit. Or you could do some wall climbing if you’re feeling adventurous!

Junior Clubs also get involved in some real ‘hands-on’ stuff in the countryside – like a variety of conservation projects – such as fence or nest box building, or cleaning up a pond to make sure it's a suitable habitat for animal and plant life.

INFORMATION www.suffolkyoungfarmers.com www.suffolkshow.co.uk www.staubyn-centre.essex.sch.uk

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APRIL 2015

The link between exercise, movement and good health has long been established. Anne Gould visits Jerwood Dance House in Ipswich to find out how it's helping people with Parkinson’s disease

JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED

A

t the age 73, Terence Curran has just started ballet classes at Dance East. With his walking stick and stature – he’s more than six foot tall – you might say at first glance he perhaps appears an unlikely candidate for pliés, pirouettes, arabesques and chasses. But increasingly there is evidence to show that dance is much more than an enthralling art form – apparently it can help with a wide range of health issues including everything from autism to Alzheimer’s and osteoporosis too. More recently it’s been shown to be a highly beneficial form of physical therapy for people with Parkinson’s disease – and there is science to prove it.

That's why every week this year Terence and a group of up to 22 others have been taking part in a groundbreaking ballet programme at Jerwood Dance House on Ipswich Waterfront, specially designed to help people who are suffering from Parkinson’s disease. He and his wife, Marilyn, travel in from

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Pixie Green, near Fressingfield every Wednesday without fail – but other members of the group are spread right across the county and there’s even one class member from Cambridge. All of them have found these Dance for Parkinson’s classes – part of a programme by English National Ballet – has made remarkable improvements to their health.

Terence says, “It’s made a huge difference to me in so many ways.

It’s helped my confidence, my speech, sequencing, remembering and my movement is definitely better.” He said that when he first went to class he kept making mistakes because he found it very difficult to do two things at once.

But this has improved immensely.

Terence, a former athlete and Olympic high-jump hopeful, says it also really helped that you have to have contact with people, hold on to them and change partners as well. “You can see that it's helped other people too. One of the things about Parkinson’s is that it

can affect your speech and swallowing.

Part of this course involves singing.

There was one man who couldn’t talk but last week he spoke for the first time.”

On top of that there have been social benefits – not just meeting people at the group but getting out and about – even travelling to London to see English National Ballet perform the work they have been learning to. The course in Ipswich is taught by Sarah Lewis who has been specially trained by ENB and musical accompaniment is by Amy Mallett. She teaches a programme that’s based around the ballet company’s current performance, so before Christmas they were learning movements from the Nutcracker and now they are focusing on Modern Masters.

The Suffolk-based programme at Dance East is one of only a handful of centres in the UK who have ENB’s Dance for Parkinson’s. There are other ‘hubs’ in Cardiff, Oxford and Liverpool, so it’s clearly something of an honour for

Dance for Parkinson’s | Dance East

Dance East to have been chosen. Rachel Tarkenter, Head of Communications and Development, at Dance East, explained that English National Ballet is a UK leader for Dance for Parkinson’s and has not only been working with people with this progressive condition since 2010 but is also the first major dance company in the UK to do so.

It offers people with Parkinson’s, their carers, friends and family members the opportunity to engage in high quality artistic dance activity, inspired by the Company’s repertoire, within a professional dance studio. She said that through weekly classes the Dance for Parkinson’s programme provides an insight into the creative process of a production with opportunities to meet Company dancers and musicians, watch rehearsals and performances

by English National Ballet.

The group theatre visit includes exclusive behind the scenes access to the Company, a presentation by members of the Wardrobe department and English

National Ballet’s Orchestra and a chance to see costumes from the production up close. Rachel says what is remarkable is that thanks to scientific evidence – from Roehampton University, who conducted a study on the programme – its therapeutic benefits have now been proven. The study showed it aids people with Parkinson’s physically, mentally and socially helping with physical development in a uniform or linear fashion and with mobility in the short term, particularly when there is musical accompaniment.

event for people with Parkinson’s that is about art, rather than about disease and allows participants to enjoy the excitement of being a part of the goingson of a professional ballet company.

INFORMATION www.danceeast.co.uk

It gives participants the tools to increase body awareness and confidence in order to use the mobility they have, but may not have had the courage to use.

Dancing provides tools to help with activities in everyday life, giving participants the experience of different ways of moving, loosening up the spinal area and provides help with stability, posture and encourages feelings of wellbeing, determination and achievement.

A plus for the dance side is that it is an

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APRIL 2015

CARE FROM THE COMMUNITY

Since opening in 1989 St Elizabeth Hospice has cared for over 20,000 local people living with a progressive illness. Each year it costs ÂŁ9.1 million to offer its services and 75% of this money needs to be raised from the local community. Essential Suffolk visits to find our more

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St Elizabeth Hospice

S

ituated on Foxhall Road in Ipswich St Elizabeth Hospice, to a passer-by, looks an unremarkable place, but for over 2,000 people a year it is a valuable life line that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week supporting patients, families and the carers of those living with a progressive illness. If you speak to anyone who has had cause to come into contact with the Hospice it is clear that it is a service that makes a real difference to people’s lives and is a hugely valued part of Suffolk’s healthcare landscape.

Reading testimonials, one of the reasons that St Elizabeth’s appears to be held in such high regard is that, despite the number of people it helps each year, the Hospice’s work is centred around each individual’s needs at all times. Within 24 hours of being referred the team aims to have met with the patient and family or carer and assessed the best way to proceed, looking to provide specialist support wherever it is needed be that in the home – where two thirds of patients are cared for – in the community or at the Hospice. Importantly it is entirely free of charge to the end user.

End of life care is of course, in part, what the Hospice does but it offers so much more. Progressive illnesses, although life limiting, can continue over many years and St Elizabeth’s becomes an ongoing part of the patient’s life during that time. While many of its services, such a pain relief, are medical it also offers complimentary therapies and importantly a sense of community.

Illness can be very isolating and for many patients the Hospice is a place where they can still come and have a social life, a warm meal, or even a haircut.

an amazing £9.1 million a year and approximately 75% of that cost is raised by the community the Hospice serves.

It is said, figuratively, the best way to eat an elephant is one slice at a time and so it is with the mammoth task of raising the money the Hospice needs each year.

No one revenue stream could address the challenge so the Hospice is active across many different fundraising areas.

The network of St Elizabeth shops is vitally important and raises approximately 20% of the money needed annually. Currently there are 25 across the county and volunteers are always in demand to help run them. Volunteers play a vital role in the success of the Hospice and St Elizabeth’s has around 1100. Of these 500 work within the shops with others working across departments in roles such as inpatient unit care assistants, volunteer drivers and hairdressers to name but a few. It is estimated these generous helpers contribute 2000 hours of work a week to the Hospice and in doing so save more than £1.1 million per year.

Gifts, donations and legacies are also important sources of revenue but the single largest area is community fund raising which contributes over 25% of the annual total. St Elizabeth Hospice is thankful for the wide support it receives from individuals, groups, schools, businesses and other organisations with many coming up with their own fundraising ideas or joining in with larger ones organised by the Hospice

team. Two such events in the calendar for 2015 are the popular Midnight Walk which takes place on May 16 and the Team 100 London to Paris 300 mile cycle ride, starting on September 15.

The Midnight Walk is now in its ninth year and this time has a pirate fancy dress theme. With an anticipated 1500 people taking part, choosing to walk or run either the 5, 8 or 13 mile courses, it is St Elizabeth’s biggest single fund raising event which aims to raise a very impressive £150,000. The closing date for registration is May 14.

The Team 100 London to Paris 300 mile cycle ride is a new challenge for 2015. Although people have cycled from London to Paris to raise funds for the Hospice in the past this is the first time that St Elizabeth’s has created a specific event for the Hospice and is aiming to attract 100 ‘cyclists’ to complete the challenge and raise £100,000.

In 2013 Ian Head, Managing Director of Bristos in Ipswich, completed the ride as part of a wider organised group and it was feedback from him, and others like him, that inspired the Hospice to set this new challenge. Ian told us “I chose to do London to Paris as it was something that had been gnawing away in my head for years. Whilst I wasn’t a cyclist (I haven’t got an expensive bike, it doesn’t have drop handlebars, and I don’t wear Lycra!) it seemed like an endurance that I might be capable of. ‰

The Hospice is always looking to improve the service it offers. Currently it is developing a transitional service for patients aged 14 years and up. Moving from a child care system into an adult environment must be a daunting prospect and monthly meetings are now helping this process. The Hospice is also just opening a sensory room and in November last year completed the expansion of its day unit, with a state of the art gym, enabling it to significantly increase the frequency and activities it can offer patients such as exercise classes, easy breathing and relaxation.

Such progress however comes at a cost; This year’s pirate themed Midnight Walk takes place on May 16

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Glebe House Residential Retirement Home, Hollesley, Woodbridge 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.

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

Excellent in every class

Find out more at: www.ipswich.suffolk.sch.uk/openday or 01473 408300 Excellent for results 100% of our GCSE students gained five A*-C grades including English and Maths

Discover why Ipswich School received the highest rating of “Excellent” in every category in our ISI Inspection Report 2014

Excellent for universities Our Russian students have had Oxbridge offers for the last six consecutive years

Join us at our

OPEN DAY on Thursday 23rd April

Senior School 9.30am–12.30pm Prep School 12.30–3.00pm

Excellent preparation Our Prep School provides the best preparation for pupils moving to the Senior School

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M su ea pp ns or -te 10 t ava sted fu 0% ilab fina ll l fe of e, up ncial es to

Excellent for sport Our under 18 Girls are National Indoor Hockey Champions

St Elizabeth Hospice It was a great experience, both from the lead up to it, raising some not insignificant funds for St Elizabeth Hospice and of course the ride itself.

Of course the emotion and exhilaration of the last mile or so cycling through Paris is immense. Traffic stopped, onlookers cheered as 123 yellow t-shirted cyclists rode the final leg.”

Currently over 60 ‘cyclists’ have signed up for the 2015 ride and there is still time to join in if it sounds like something for you.

INFORMATION Details of the Midnight Walk, Team 100 London to Paris cycle ride and other fundraising events can be found at: www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/events Ian Head having completed the London to Paris cycle ride

Essential Suffolk signs up for London to Paris ride for St Elizabeth Hospice When we launched our magazine it was a founding principle that we would try to support as many Suffolk charities as we can by each month, bringing the work of organisations across all fields to the attention of our audience. We are proud to say that this is something we have maintained and in the four and a half years we have been publishing we know our kind readers have regularly responded and supported many of the causes we have featured.

Since committing to the ride in late October Adrian has so far cycled more than 1000 miles training for the event, become an official MAMIL (Middle Aged Man in Lycra) – much to the amusement of his wife and friends – and applied himself fully to the challenge ahead.

In an extract from a recent blog, which Adrian writes to keep his training on track, he shared a very personal reason for wanting the London to Paris ride to be a great success: “When I first signed up to do this ride I did it primarily to get fit and in doing so raise much needed funds for a very worthwhile cause. I had no personal connection to the Hospice, thankfully no friends or family had needed its services and I, like I imagine most of us, would be very happy for it to stay that way but sadly that’s not the way life goes, is it.

This time we have gone a step beyond adding just the oxygen of publicity for a cause and actually got involved as Adrian Rawlinson, one of the publishers of the magazine, has signed up to do the London to Paris ride.

Since Christmas my beautiful big sister Catherine has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. At just 53 years old she has been told she potentially only has months to live. While she and we, her family and friends, will not take this awful news lying down, and not give up without a fight, it has brought into even

sharper focus how necessary facilities like St Elizabeth are, not just in Suffolk but all over the country.

Catherine lives in Devon and therefore, should the time and need arise, will not benefit directly from our combined efforts for St Elizabeth however I truly hope that in the hilly lanes of Devon similarly Lycra clad, over weight, middle aged men will be pedalling out the miles supporting the facilities on her doorstep.

When, as concerned bystanders, we can do little to truly influence the outcome of life and death fights such as that which Catherine faces, this is something we can do. I know our ride, however insignificant in the grand scheme of things, will make a difference for so many be they sisters, brothers, mothers, fathers, friends or total strangers. Please support our ride.

Please support the hospice.”

To read Adrian’s training blog or to sponsor his ride visit: www.essentialsuffolk.com/adrianslondon-to-paris-cycle-challenge Reaching his sponsorship target will pay for the work of two nurses for two weeks.

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Finance

APRIL 2015

CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE CASHING IN YOUR PENSION In April 2015 the government’s new pension flexibility rules come into force and many see this as a chance to fully deplete their pensions or at least access a large part of them. If this is something you are considering, here are a few things to bear in mind before you do.

Firstly pensions in general are funded during your working life to provide an income in retirement. With life expectancy increasing retirement can last thirty years and even beyond. If you deplete your pension now do you have the funds to provide an income in thirty years’ time? The short term opportunity of accessing a large sum of money is very attractive but the consequences in ten, twenty or thirty years’ time when the withdrawn money runs out should not be forgotten.

Have you taken account of your current income tax rate and how any withdrawal from a pension above the tax free lump sum will be taxed? If you are already earning £42,000 and wish to make a withdrawal beyond the tax free lump sum this at best will be taxed at 40%; once income received reaches £100,000 your personal allowance is reduced by £1 for every £2 of income. This creates an equivalent income tax rate of 60%; income beyond £150,000 is taxed at 45%.

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James Wright

If you don’t require withdrawals above the tax free lump sum immediately but do still wish to reduce your pensions, consider taking the withdrawals over a number of tax years to ensure the withdrawals are as tax efficient as possible.

Finally have you considered the benefits of leaving the funds undrawn within a pension? Pensions benefit from tax relief on contributions in and growth is free from tax within the pension wrapper. In addition to this the changes to death benefits mean if death occurs before age 75 no tax liability arises; if death occurs after 75 the tax charged in 2015/16 is 45% but after this will be taxed as income on the beneficiary as withdrawals are taken. Pensions are now an extremely effective way to pass monies to future generations with these changes. By withdrawing all pension funds (including the tax free lump sum) this will bring the monies into your taxable estate on death and inheritance tax may become due at 40%.

Clearly the decision regarding withdrawing funds from pensions is not simple and it is important advice is sought. At Scrutton Bland Ltd we provide independent financial advice but can also call upon tax specialists from within the group if required. If you would like to review your retirement options please contact me at james.wright@scruttonbland.co.uk or on 01473 267000. Scrutton Bland Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Health

BE BOWEL AWARE Each year, April is host to campaigns to raise awareness of two medical conditions which have their own distinctive set of symptoms but which need careful attention to noticing any changes in those signs – bowel cancer and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

What is bowel cancer?

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is spearheaded by leading charity Bowel Cancer UK to start a national conversation about bowel cancer, encouraging as many people as possible to open up and talk about the disease with family, friends, workmates or neighbours.

Bowel cancer is also referred to as colorectal, colon or rectal cancer. Nearly all develop in the large bowel – two-thirds of these are in the colon and one-third in the rectum. Most bowel cancers develop from polyps, which are usually noncancerous and, once detected if caught early enough can be removed easily and successfully.

The risk of bowel cancer increases with age, with over 80% occurring in people who are 60 or over (Source: Public Health England). That is why screening is so crucial, as it can detect the disease at an early stage in people with no symptoms, therefore any treatment required is likely to be more effective.

Public Health England is leading the way in reminding men and women, between the ages of 60 to 74, to complete their bowel cancer screening home test kits and return them. The key message is to pay attention to your body so you notice when something is different. New symptoms can indicate something has changed; fluctuations that seem normal can be signs of something more serious and should not be ignored.

What symptoms should I look out for?

You should see your GP if you notice any changes in normal bowel habits that continue for more than three weeks.

These include: diarrhoea, constipation frequency of passing stool.

Other symptoms of bowel cancer can be: bleeding from the bottom and/or blood in stools, unexplained weight loss, vomiting, feeling bloated, extreme tiredness for no obvious reason, a pain or lump in the abdomen.

If you are worried about any symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor – early detection can make all the difference. Over 90% or people who are diagnosed at the earliest stage are successfully treated. The good news is bowel cancer is relatively rare in people under 50. Only around 2,000 people are diagnosed under the age of 50 every year in the UK, which is just 5% of the 40,000 people diagnosed annually (source: Bowel Cancer UK).

Am I more at risk than others?

Both men and women can be affected, and family history can play a part. People with a first degree relative (such as mother, father, brother, sister, child) under 45 or with two or more first degree relatives with bowel cancer may be considered for further testing. A sedentary lifestyle and a poor diet low in fresh fruit and vegetables may increase the risk, as can a high intake of red and processed meat, smoking and excess alcohol.

Treatment and outlook Bowel cancer can be treated using a combination of different options, depending on where the cancer is exactly and how far it has advanced at the time of diagnosis. If it is confined to the bowel, surgery will usually be able to completely remove it. Overall, between seven and eight in every 10 people with bowel cancer will live at least one year after diagnosis and more than half of those diagnosed will live at least another 10 years (source: Cancer Care UK).

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?

April is also IBS awareness month, which is a very common disorder of the gastrointestinal (digestive) tract.

If you have IBS you are not alone – IBS is thought to affect up to one in five people

at some point in their life, usually developing between the ages of 20 to 30 with around twice as many women being affected as men (source: NHS.uk).

Yet many people remain undiagnosed and unaware that their symptoms indicate a medical condition. Typical symptoms are abdominal pain or cramping and irregular bowel function, including diarrhoea which may be followed by constipation a few days later. Although there is currently no cure for IBS, there are ways to improve symptoms and feel better.

What causes IBS? The exact causes of IBS are unknown although several factors including a change in diet or stress and anxiety are thought to trigger it. IBS can also develop after recovery from another gastrointestinal disorder such as food poisoning. The common food triggers are: alcohol, fizzy drinks, chocolate, caffeine in drinks – such as tea, coffee or cola, processed snacks – such as crisps and biscuits, fatty or fried food.

If you have signs of IBS, it is crucial to get an accurate diagnosis. Visit your GP in the first instance who may recommend tests to rule out any other gastrointestinal disorders. Working with your doctor and being proactive in managing your own health are important in effectively handling the symptoms.

How is IBS treated?

The symptoms of IBS often ease or settle without treatment, and any treatment will depend on the particular symptoms being experienced. It could include dietary restrictions so you may be asked to keep a food diary to help identify foods that may trigger symptoms. There are medications available to ease intestinal spasms (antispasm medication) which may also be recommended, as could diarrhoea or constipation remedies.

Anxiety or depression can exacerbate IBS symptoms but with appropriate medical and psychological treatment if required, you should be able to live a normal, full and active life with IBS.

Don’t delay, get in touch Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital offers a comprehensive range of general surgery, colorectal and gastroenterology services, and extensive diagnostic and imaging facilities. If you are worried about either of these conditions, or have any concerns or questions, get in touch on 01473 279 179 for details of how to access our services and information on how to book a private consultation with a consultant. www.nuffieldhealth.com/ipswichhospital

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A TOUCH OF THE EXOTIC island styles and animal prints Ariana print dress £185, Holly Blue Boutique

Tina Taylor pink carnival dress £87, blue jewelled necklace £15 Adams Apple

Jay Ley silk and velvet poncho £48 Vintage Angels

Sences necklace £53 Hannah Stowe Flower print cutout sleeve top available in 3 colours £28 Ninni Noo Boutique

Animal print bag £28 Ninni Noo Boutique

Open back jumpsuit, 3 print designs available £45 Ninni Noo Boutique

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Emreco floral print top £29, white trousers £53 Adams Apple

Wildfox zebra cream tshirt £45 Chattertons

Elia B gold and white pumps £59.99 Hannah Stowe

Spring/Summer 2015 | Fashion

BLACK & WHITE

keep it simple in monochrome Rebeca Sanver court shoes £169 Hannah Stowe

Peach accessories silver grey handbag £65 Holly Blue Boutique

Great Plains knitted top £65, culottes £55, Holly Blue Boutique

Markberg belt £45 Hannah Stowe

Marble navy sweater £63, white crop trousers £66 Adams Apple

Dranella print top £59 Laura Jane Boutique

Apanage femme black and white dress with lime accent £115 Holly Blue Boutique

Strapless jumpsuit, available in 3 print designs £40 Ninni Noo Boutique

James Lakeland dress £139 Holly Blue Boutique

Dranella print trousers £69 Laura Jane Boutique

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WHATEVER THE WEATHER best to be prepared

Barbour Beacon wellies £49.95 O&C Butcher Barbour chilli red Staithes top £39.95, Barbour Forland gillet £149, Barbour Gorleston trousers £69.95 O&C Butcher Lightweight and showerproof coat £110 Samphire at Snape Maltings

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Lebek jacket £129, Lebek top £39, Choise jeans £68 Caramel

Essential FASHION FIND

Timberland Tompson chinos £70 O&C Butcher

Timerland jacket £125, Timberland shirt £60 O&C Butcher R M Williams indigo Chelsea boots £200 O&C Butcher

Sebago Kedge tie shoe £130 O&C Butcher

The beautiful STELLÉ AUDIO Mini-Clutch Speaker™ offers the best in sound quality and design. It effortlessly pairs with any Bluetooth®-enabled device, has a built-in speakerphone for hands-free calls, opens to reveal a mirror, has a pocket for daily essentials, can connect to nonBluetooth devices via aux-in jack and if your phone is running out of battery, it can charge any USB enabled device. Call in for a demonstration or to place an order.

Available in Metallic Purple £129 or Dazzling Diamond £169 from Déjà Vu Boutique, Ipswich www.dejavuboutique.co.uk

SPRING/SUMMER COLLECTION NOW IN

Fabulous new footwear boutique Open Monday to Saturday 9.30am – 5.15pm 20a Market Hill, Woodbridge IP12 4LU Tel: 01394 382691 www.hannahstowe.co.uk | hello@hannahstowe.co.uk

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CARAMEL® 140 High Street, Aldeburgh Suffolk IP15 5AQ

CARAMEL® Snape Maltings, Snape Suffolk IP17 1SP

01728 452141

01728 687467

www.caramel-aldeburgh.co.uk EssentialSUFFOLK

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NEW SPRING COLLECTIONS HAVE ARRIVED

See It...

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72 Thoroughfare Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1AL 01394 382300 sue@hollyblueboutique.com

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Cover Co ver ups, ups, kaft kaftans anss and dr dresses resses tto o take take you from from beach beac ch to b bar. ar.

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01394 380306 Open 9.30-5 M onday – Sat urday Monday Saturday

89/ 89/91 91 TThoroughfare horoughfare • W Woodbridge oodbridge • SSuffolk uffolk • IP12 IP12 1AW 1AW 01394 386686 www www.laurajaneboutique.co.uk .laurajaneboutique.co.uk Situated thee en endd ooff th thee TThoroughfare, just thee tra traffic lights.

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Spring/Summer 2015 | Fashion

COOL & CALM

easy to wear without sacrificing style

Part Two Mirjanni cardigan £109.95 Laura Jane Boutique

Soaked in Luxury Nante t shirt £35 Laura Jane Boutique

Noa Noa SS dress £99, Sandwich scarf £19.95, Sandwich bracelet set £15 Fleur

Soaked in Luxury Nante skirt £45 Laura Jane Boutique Cara synergy boot sandal £95 Fleur

Yacco Maricard trousers £177, Yacco Maricard blue stripe shirt £180 Caramel

Part Two Urban trousers in coral, also available in cornflower blue and camel £74.95 Laura Jane Boutique

Tye dye white & turquoise linen dress by Velvet £105 Chattertons

Pale yellow silk top by Pyrus £139 Chattertons

Capri silver dress £84 Adams Apple

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70 Thoroughfare Woodbridge 01394 384685

New Spring / Summer Collection now in stock

image Kitmedia

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Fashion

BOLD & BRIGHT

vibrant colours as the weather warms up

In town coral cotton top £50 Adams Apple

Jumper 1234 shrunken cardigan £125, Ottod 'Ame skirt £109 Collen & Clare

Yest berry dress £60 Adams Apple

Prima Donna Maddison in Candy Pink, full cup bra £65.95 Sweet Dreams

Yest coral knit jacket £50 Adams Apple

Green v neck Cashmere & silk top

by Diane Von Furstenberg £179 Chattertons

Hugo Boss Keska dress £330 Collen & Clare

Prima Donna Maddison in candy pink, Rio brief £27.95 Sweet Dreams

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 Chattertons 80 High Street, Southwold & 18 Market Hill, Woodbridge. T: 01394 385757 www.chattertonshop.co.uk Collen & Clare 25 Market Place, Southwold & 164 High Street, Aldeburgh. T: 01502 724823 www.collenandclare.com Déjà Vu Boutique 10 Norwich Road, Ipswich. T: 01473 404592 www.dejavuboutique.co.uk Fleur 166 High Street, Aldeburgh. T: 01728 454822 www.fleuraldeburgh.co.uk Hannah Stowe 20a Market Hill, Woodbridge. T: 01394 382691 www.hannahstowe.co.uk Holly Blue Boutique 72 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 382300 Laura Jane Boutique 89/91 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 386686 Ninni Noo Boutique 12 Quay Street, Woodbridge. T: 01394 388655 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 Vintage Angels Hall Farm, Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh. T: 07879 630461 www.vintageangelsclothing.co.uk

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APRIL 2015

with this ring

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Weddings

Choosing a wedding band or an engagement ring is very personal and special because they are like no other item of jewellery. Caroline Gould, Wedding Planner looks at the tradition

A

wedding ring is often viewed as a symbol of eternity, the band signifying the never-ending love between the couple. The first wedding rings were seen in Egypt around 3000 years ago and the wedding ring is worn on the third finger of the left hand – as it was believed that the vein in this finger led straight to the heart.

It used to be tradition that when buying an engagement ring, the groom should spend the equivalent of three months’ salary… I think this is a bit old fashioned now. A lot of brides have an idea of the kind of engagement ring they would like and will often know what suits them.

Like many women I’ve never liked gold jewellery because it just doesn’t look right on me, all of my jewellery is silver or white gold. So a word for the groom; don’t surprise your bride to be with a sparkly diamond unless you know that’s what she really wants. Of course the experience of shopping for an engagement ring together is a great thing to share and marks the start of the wedding planning process too.

All of my couples tell me their proposal story and it’s surprising how many times the proposal is followed by engagement ring shopping. My husband proposed to me without a ring, I think because he knew I would like to choose something and also I’m not entirely sure that the proposal was planned! I’m definitely the ‘planner’ in our family. Our proposal happened on a Sunday morning so we headed into town the same day.

Unfortunately a lot of the jewellery stores were closed so I ended up with a £5 Argos ring and we headed back to town a few days later to purchase another ring. I still wear both!

Engagement rings are traditionally associated with diamonds and the bigger the stone the more expensive it is likely to be. But there’s more to diamonds than meets the eye – the cut of the stone dictates how sparkly the stone is, in other words its brilliance will also depend on how well it has been cut. The cut will also dictate the shape of the diamond. There’s a round cut an emerald cut, a pear, marquise, princess, oval or heart shape. ‰

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APRIL 2015

Diamonds also come in different colours the most valuable and rare colour is white. They can also have subtle coloured tones but those with a very strong and distinct colour are extremely rare and are called fancies.

There’s also the weight, and size of a diamond – measured by carats and the average size of most engagement-ring diamonds is somewhere between one carat and half a carat.

When it comes to wedding rings, I really like it when people think outside the box. There’s no rule that states the rings have to be identical or even complimentary! A friend of mine is a tree surgeon and he had a wooden wedding ring made for him, while his wife has a more traditional wedding band. My husband’s wedding ring is made from titanium as he didn’t want a ‘shiny’ wedding ring and titanium was one of the options to achieve this. Mine is white gold with diamonds so they certainly don’t match.

Create your

Dream Wedding Image by: nataliesloanphotography.com

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Weddings

There are lots of things to consider when choosing your wedding rings. You will likely be wearing this piece of jewellery every single day for the rest of your life so you need to fall in love with it.

Also, it needs to be comfortable and practical for your daily routine. A good place to start is to think about the type of metal; traditional yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, platinum or titanium.

Some metals can be resized and some can’t so it is worth considering this and getting advice from your jeweller. Then there is the shape; court shape (rounded on the inside and out), flat profiles (completely rectangular), D-shape (flat on the inside, round on the outside) amongst other options. Finally you could have a diamond(s) set into the ring or another stone, an inscription engraved inside, even fingerprints.

Traditionally the best man will take care of the rings and have them ready at the crucial moment, but you may have an alternative. One of my clients had their dog take part in the wedding ceremony as the ring bearer, the rings were tied to his collar in a small ring box! If you already have a child together it’s a good way to include them in the proceedings with the important role of ‘ring security’.

The wedding ring is the symbol of marriage that confirms your commitment to one another. On the wedding day,

and for some time afterwards, people will ask to see your wedding rings so look after your hands and get a manicure before the big day!

INFORMATION Caroline Gould Weddings is this year’s winner of The Wedding Industry Award for Best Independent Planner in the UK. For more information visit www.carolinegouldweddings.co.uk

Once you have selected your rings and the big day arrives, think about how you would like them to be presented in the ceremony.

For further information about weddings at The Hangar or to arrange a viewing, call 01473 333741 TM

Suffolk’s great party and event venue

Email: events@kesgravehall.com | www.thegreatpartyvenue.com

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It’s all change at Suffolk’s Ufford Park Hotel Golf and Luxury Spa Resort this spring. New Managing Director Tarnia Robertson explains all

THE next GENERATION

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essentialsuffolk.com

Business Profile | Ufford Park

look involving decorating, specially chosen colour schemes and new furnishings. It’s also involved a lot more.

“Times have changed and with all the electronic devices that people carry around with them these days it’s essential that they have more electric sockets, places to charge their computers and phones. The hotel regularly hosts business conferences and these guests need access for their laptops etc.” So, she says, they have installed new electrics including USB access in every room and at the same time changed the lighting, installing spotlights as well.

O

ver the last 20 years Suffolk’s Ufford Park has grown and grown and now enjoys a reputation as one of the best-known luxury golf and spa hotels in East Anglia.

Owners Colin and Shirley Aldous have loved, nurtured and expanded the hotel they bought back in 1991 almost beyond recognition. Back then they started out with 24 bedrooms; now there are 90.

There’s also a very fine 18-hole par 71 Championship golf course within 120 acres of undulating parkland, which attracts intermediate and experienced players alike. They introduced a unique floodlit two-storey driving range, a luxury health club and spa which includes a bubbling hydro pool, mineral grotto, steam rooms and sauna.

department and I understand the business so much better. I’ve been going away and staying in other hotels and looking at what they do, what works and what’s going on in the industry. I’m really looking forward to the challenge.”

Her first big task is a three to five year project which involves updating and refurbishing the whole hotel, firstly the bedrooms and then moving into the public areas. “It's a masterplan to take Ufford Park into the 21st-century,” she explained. The first phase, which has included 24 bedrooms from the oldest part of the hotel, has just been completed with more than £100,000 invested in the bedrooms. Tarnia says that this has involved a complete new

The design was really important especially to the leisure market, she said.

“People come to us not just for golf but for leisure and spa breaks as well and we want to give our customers the very best. “ The refurbished bedrooms have a modern but classic appeal having been decorated using browns and earthy tones, with accents of orange, lime and teal blue. Tarnia is thrilled as these new rooms will be available for the launch of the busy spring and summer season.

But, she says the next phase of the programme will have to wait until next year at a time when the hotel isn’t so full. “All the time we are moving forward with the quality and the facilities. It’s exciting times.”

INFORMATION Ufford Park Woodbridge, Yarmouth Road, Melton T: 01394 383555 www.uffordpark.co.uk

As a result of hard work and investment the hotel now has a regular clientele from near and far – London, the Home Counties, the East of England, the Midlands and beyond. But this spring, as Colin reaches his 70th birthday, he and Shirley have decided to take more of a back seat and retire, passing the baton of management to their daughter Tarnia Robertson. Of course Tarnia, who lives in the next-door village of Melton, is no stranger here – she's worked at Ufford Park for 15 years heading up marketing and over the last two years has learnt every aspect of the business to prepare her for her new role as Managing Director. “There’s been a lot to take in and I have spent time in every

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APRIL 2015

PUB WALKS with Darcy

Sponsored by

This month Darcy’s pub walk takes us to Lavenham for a pretty circular from the historic town

www.christchurchvets.co.uk

Lavenham is a haven for tourists keen to discover the history of Suffolk’s wool trade and marvel at the beautiful buildings that have survived since Tudor times. But just a few paces from the main street our latest circular route takes walkers from The Greyhound pub, out past the stunning sculpture gardens of Lavenham Hall and before too long joins ‘Lavenham Walk’ including a long since disused railway cutting that forms most of the first half of the route.

Emerging from the shelter of the cutting and surrounding woods we venture across pretty, open farmland with a great opportunity for your four legged friends to have a good, safe leg stretch before joining a short distance on the road and then a path towards the church and back to the pub.

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This was Darcy’s first official Pub Dog Walk with her new best friend Holly – our beautiful, though slightly daft, Golden Retriever puppy. We’re still counting her age in weeks so having to ensure we don’t ‘overwalk’ her, tempting as it might be. This outing to Lavenham was a perfect choice for both dogs and for the owners too, as we had the chance to enjoy the hospitality at the newly refurbished Greyhound – recently acquired by Stuart Inns – a family run business that has breathed new life into both the Long Melford Swan and Hadleigh Ram in recent years.

THE WALK Distance: Approx. 3.5 miles Time: Approx.1 hour 15 minutes Terrain: Flat paths and tracks with some minor road walking Stops: The Lavenham Greyhound Ordinance Survey Map: Explorer 196 Start Point OS reference: 916 493

A FINE F INE S SUFFOLK U FF OL K P PUB UB

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 Lavenham Greyhound cross the road and walk up Hall Road opposite.

2. After a few minutes, having passed Lavenham Hall on your left, turn right into Park Road and walk along the road for approx. 375 yds until you meet a double footpath sign by a metal gate.

3. Turn left by a sign that reads ‘Welcome to The Lavenham Walk’ and follow this track. When you come to a bridge continue straight ahead and through the dividing wooden fence with a blue and yellow disc reading St. Edmunds Way. A little later you will come to another wooden fence with another ‘Welcome to The Lavenham Walk’ sign on your right. Again go straight on following the St Edmunds Way marker. (When we visited it had rained and parts of this track were muddy so sturdy shoes/boots are advised).

4. After a short walk you will emerge into a field and notice that the woods to your left (Paradise Wood) have ended. Keep to the right of the field ahead with Lineage Wood on your right 5. As you reach a junction in the path turn left and left again walking up a track. A little further on you will pass through Balsdon Hall Farm with the track passing left between two barns. Continue to follow the track until you reach the road.

6. At the road turn right and walk on the road towards the church (there is a grass verge on the right).

7. After approx. 350 yds turn left at the circular walk sign and head across the field.The church is now clearly visible to your right.

Continue straight ahead and go through a wooden gate.

8. At the next wooden gate you will once again meet Hall Road.

Turn left and after a short while you will pass Lavenham Hall – this time on your right. Follow the road back to your starting point at the pub.

STYLISH S T YLI S H C COUNTRY O UNTRY DININ DINING G WITH GREAT WINE GREAT BEER AND W INE

01787 249553

www.lavenhamgreyhound.com 97 High St | Lavenham | Suffolk | CO10 9PZ EssentialSUFFOLK

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APRIL 2015

On April 10 The White Lion in Aldeburgh launches Brasserie Bleu with which it aims to take its French inspired food to a new level.

Adrian Rawlinson had a sneak preview to see what diners can expect

TRUE ‘BLEU’ The White Lion has reputation for great customer service. Can you give me an example of any changes you are making to enhance this?

T

he White Lion in Aldeburgh has been a favoured destination for the Essential Suffolk team since its major refurbishment in 2011. The light airy Brasserie with restaurant views directly out to the beach and sea is a great place to relax whether for lunch, dinner or even breakfast after an overnight stay which we have previously recommended. Some restaurants we have reviewed can, for many, fall into the ‘special occasion’ bracket with the prospect of a large bill at the end of the meal but the current Brasserie has always been priced at a point that makes it accessible, whatever the occasion, with us just as likely to grab an off the cuff light lunch as a formal evening out.

So, with a re-launch announced, we were curious about what changes we would see and headed to the coast to meet with Head Chef Ben Hegarty and Operations Manager Juliet Stone to find out more.

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Initially we asked Juliet why the change?

“We constantly look at what we can do to improve the visitor experience for our guests. A lot of our customers are visitors coming to the town on holiday but many are regulars and it is important that we keep our offering fresh for them too. Ben, our Head Chef, has been with us for a year now and he has lots of ideas of where he wants to take our food offering – building on what customers already like about us – but also introducing new twists.”

“Peter Osborne, our General Manager, is passionate about customer service and it’s something he has instilled into the whole team. We want to make the whole experience of coming to The White Lion as relaxed as possible and recognise that for those with families happy children makes for an enjoyable meal. In the past we have given family parties colouring for the kids to do but this year we are also introducing little beach buckets of Lego which we know can really keep small ones occupied. Again it is not a radical change but we hope something that adds to the overall customer experience.”

Will we see big differences in the restaurant?

“The changes are not radical. We are not aiming to change the feel of the restaurant. It has always managed to balance feeling both cosy and at times ‘buzzy’ and our customers will still be able to enjoy this. We are making subtle improvements such as giving the team new uniforms and introducing new crockery and glassware echoing the ‘Bleu’ theme. Our new menus have a rustic earthy appearance, again resonating with our French inspired food ethos.”

However good the customer-service the ultimate enjoyment of a meal out will come down to the quality of the food so we turned to our questions to Head Chef Ben for his view on the upcoming changes.

How will the menu change?

“Like the restaurant we are not looking to make radical changes but to evolve and refresh the food we have become famous for with an exciting new French twist. My background is in two rosette

Dining Preview | Brasserie Bleu at The White Lion

this case in two mains, the previously mentioned fish and chips and, from the Brasserie Classics section of the menu, the braised beef shin bourguignon.

Ben was entirely right about the fish and chips standing out. It is said that to truly experience Aldeburgh this is a dish that should be eaten on the beach and now, with Ben’s theatrical twist as illustrated in the photo, it can be – but from the comfort of the seagull free Brasserie.

fine dining and I want to bring some of that restaurant style to the Brasserie while still retaining our reputation for great value. I believe that people eat with their eyes first so I pay a lot of attention to how a dish looks. While there will be new dishes on the menu and daily specials we have retained our ever popular Brasserie Classic dishes but again, I have tried to take them to a higher level. I have created a tempting new prix fixe, with two courses for just £12 or three for £15, and à la carte menus.”

Juliet told us about changes to help keep children entertained but what are the food options for children?

“We offer a children’s menu but we’re also happy to offer child sized potions from our main menu. Smaller appetites shouldn’t mean a reduced choice.”

Where do you source your ingredients?

“I use the finest ingredients that I can source including freshly caught fish and seafood from the East coast, mussels from the river Deben, free range meat from Halesworth and Dingley Dell Pork from nearby Woodbridge.”

What is your food philosophy?

“I believe that attention to detail is crucial to getting the best end result.

I try to make each ingredient the best it can be. An example is we slow roast our carrots and shallots before adding them

to dishes as this really intensifies their flavour and elevates the final dish. Also small things like making sure that the skin is removed from our fish before it is battered makes a real difference. The skin isn’t really needed and it makes it much easier and enjoyable to eat.

Aldeburgh is famous for its fish and chips and most probably every restaurant in town will serve it but I want ours to stand out and be remembered. Part of that will be down to how we prepare it and part will be how it is served.

When I’m devising a dish I also try to think about people with food intolerances and how I can adapt the dish if needed so I will always encourage anyone with a special need to ask.”

With the conversation over we had the chance to sample two new dishes. The proof as they say is in the pudding, or in

The second dish paid testament to the preparation of ingredients that had been discussed. One of my bug bears is tasteless carrots so it was a real pleasure to sample the delicious pre slow roasted ones contained within the bourguignon.

A deep, rich, thoroughly satisfying dish with beautifully tender beef.

In conclusion, for fans of the current Brasserie the planned changes aren’t anything that should concern you.

The team have been very mindful of retaining all that is good and have only looked to enhance the experience. If you are yet to visit The White Lion you couldn’t choose a better time than now.

INFORMATION The Prix Fixe menu is available both for lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday.

The a la carte menu lunch and dinner seven days a week.

To book a table at Brasserie Bleu at the White Lion call 01728 452720 or for more details visit www.whitelion.co.uk/ bar-and-brasserie-menu Families will be made very welcome.

APRIL 2015

THE

alternative ‘ROAST’

This deceptively simple dish of roasted cod and vegetables from the Sibton White Horse is perfect for lunch or as a light supper. The addition of the chive and caper butter gives an extra twist of flavour

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Recipe | The Sibton White Horse

James French, head chef at the Sibton White Horse, has loved cooking from a young age. He says he started cooking with his grandma, loved baking with her and, after cooking his first roast dinner, knew a career in cooking was for him.

After leaving school James went to City College in Norwich to study catering going on to cook in London and the south of France. Back in Suffolk James spent six and half years at the The Westleton Crown where he gained invaluable experience and became sous chef before moving on to the Sibton White Horse, initially as sous chef working under Michael McMullan.

After two years he was offered his first head chef role and has relished the challenge ever since. James added “I have a big passion for cooking and local produce, as I am a proper Suffolk boy it’s awesome to use the produce I have grown up around. Working with Neil and Gill is great, we share the same passion, they are very much hands on and have a good understanding of food and what the customer wants, but importantly for me they allow me scope to be myself.”

Roast loin of cod, roasted new potato, wilted spinach, roasted cherry tomato, caper and chive butter INGREDIENTS Serves 4

METHOD

4 200g cod lion fillets 20 new potatoes 150g butter 20 cherry tomatoes 500g spinach 100g capers 4 pinches of chopped chives

2. Par boil the new potatoes, heat some olive oil in a baking tray and toss in the potatoes, season and roast in the oven until they are golden. If the potatoes are large cut them in to quarters.

1. Pre heat oven to 180°C.

3. Heat a large non-stick pan on medium heat, add a little oil and place the seasoned cod portions skin down and pan fry until golden and crispy (1 – 2 minutes). Turn the fish onto the flesh side add tomatoes to the pan and a good nob of butter, place in the oven for 7 – 10 minutes depending on the thickness of the cod. Remove and rest for 2 minutes.

4. Wilt the spinach in a hot pan and remove to drain on a piece of kitchen towel.

5. Warm the butter until melted and add the capers and chopped chives.

To serve place the spinach in the middle off the plate, place the potatoes and tomatoes round alternately, cod on top of the spinach and drizzle the caper and chive butter over.

It’s almost ten years since owners Neil and Gill Mason arrived at the Sibton White Horse. Looking back and considering they had no experience, their success story has been quite remarkable. This year for second time, they’ve been awarded ‘The Good Pub Guide Suffolk Dining Pub of the Year’ Lunch and dinner is served seven days (closed Monday lunch).

If your thinking of driving out it may pay to book, it’s by no means a big place and not surprisingly can be popular.

Neil and Gill Mason amongst their homegrown produce, their impressive kitchen garden provides for their kitchen

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

01728 660337 e: www.sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk . W: info@sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk

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APRIL 2015

The Swan Inn

The Bildeston Crown

The Froize

The Swan is a beautiful thatched pub serving quality food always offering a great selection of regional cask ales coupled with quality ‘new world’ wines. Acquired by family-owned pub group Exclusive Inns in March 2014, it has undergone a sympathetic refurbishment, transforming it into a modern village pub with a relaxing bar area and a warm and welcoming restaurant overlooking the village green. On the menu you’ll find classic dishes served with a modern edge.

The Bildeston Crown is a 15th Century coaching inn steeped in history and located in the glorious Suffolk countryside.

The brasserie style menu offers a wonderful selection of classic French and English food

by Head Chef Delphine Barrais. The service is warm and friendly with the emphasis on relaxed dinning. Please view our website to browse the menu.

David Grimwood’s lovely Freehouse Restaurant The Froize, is all about the food and the people who eat it! All our main courses are served from a visual hot table in the dining room. From beautiful roast joints – tender, moist and succulent to our popular pies – deep filled and all topped with a golden short crust top – all our dishes are made using top quality, seasonal fresh ingredients, sourced locally, cooked with love and passion and served with a smile!

Open: Every day for lunch and dinner including Bank Holidays and may also be hired exclusively for your private occasion.

Open: Food service is from 12 noon to 2.45pm and 7pm to 9.45pm daily (9pm Sundays)

Open: Lunch every day except Monday and for supper on Friday and Saturday.

Booking advised

The Street, Monks Eleigh, Suffolk, IP7 7AU.

High Street, Bildeston, Suffolk, IP7 7EB

Chillesford, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 3PU

01449 763163 info@swaninnmonkseleigh.co.uk www.swaninnmonkseleigh.co.uk

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

01394 450282 dine@thefrozie.co.uk www.froize.co.uk

The Peacock Inn

The Middleton Bell

Fynn Valley

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.

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.

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.

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)

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

37 The Street, Chelsworth, Suffolk, IP7 7HU 01449 743952 wilcri@aol.com www.thepeacockchelsworth.com

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The Street, Middleton, Suffolk, IP17 3NN 01728 648286

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

Food Gallery

Ufford Park

The Galley

Arlingtons

The Park Restaurant, situated at Ufford Park Woodbridge is set in 120 acres of historic parkland. We offer a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere and have a seasonally-changing menu offering lots of locally produced food.

Easter is fast approaching, so why not bring the family and join us for a delicious lunch from our set menu on Sunday 5th April and enjoy the beautiful views across the golf course. All party sizes can be accommodated for. Open to all; non-members welcome

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 including the bright, spacious and welcoming room upstairs or our beautiful large wine cellar.

Due to popular demand the team at the Galley are continuing their special event on the second Sunday of every month – an extra delicious Sunday Roast! Next available on 12th April and 10th May.

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.

Open: Monday to Sunday 6.30pm to 9.30pm Sunday Lunch served 12 noon to 2pm Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW

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

Open: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 10pm 13 Museum Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 1HE

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

01394 380055 www.thegalley.uk.com

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

The Angel

The Fountain

Sibton White Horse

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.

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.

A 16th century unspoilt destination inn set in the heart of the Suffolk countryside.

A memorable experience is waiting at The Good Pub Guide’s Suffolk Dining Pub of the Year 2015.’ 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.

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

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

Theatre Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4NE (Just off the Market Hill) 01394 383808 mail@theangelwoodbridge.co.uk www.theangelwoodbridge.co.uk

The Street, Tuddenham St. Martin, IP6 9BT

Open: 12pm to 2.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 6.30pm to 11pm. Monday to Saturday 12pm to 3pm, 6.45pm to 10.30pm Sunday Halesworth Road, Sibton, Nr. Saxmundham, Suffolk, IP17 2JJ

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

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

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ALDEBURGH’S

BEACHSIDE TERRACE OPENS FOR SPRING AND SUMMER ON 2ND APRIL 2015 Join us at the Brudenell Hotel’s Seafood & Grill, East Anglia’s premier seafood destination, for al fresco dining with stunning coastal views, beautifully fresh locally-sourced fish, and a very warm welcome.

Seafood & Grill, Brudenell Hotel, The Parade, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BU 01728 452071 www.brudenellhotel.co.uk/seafood-grill-restaurant

Homes & Interiors

curtain call When you’re planning for new curtains or blinds you’ll be faced with a number of choices and the vast number of styles, fabrics and finishes can seem overwhelming. We’ve chosen some current favourites from leading Suffolk retailers and interior designers for your inspiration

Scion new Levande Collection, pictured in Lotta fabric, from £28 per square metre, Barretts of Woodbridge

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Barretts

of Woodbridge

All of April is blinds month 20% of all

made products

PRODUCTS INCLUDE: roller blinds | vision roller blinds | metal venetians | wooden venetians | vertical blinds | pleated blinds Nantmor blinds are made and manufactured in Clacton on Sea – locally made and supporting the UK

40 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge IP12 1AL Free customer car park 01394 384300 | softs@barretts.co.uk www.barretts.co.uk | www.barretts.co.uk/shop

Homes & Interiors

Kirstie Allsopp Megan curtains £66.99, Glasswells

Fabric can add so much charater. These chickens are perfect in a country kitchen, Rendall & Wright

Straight Edge Roller Blinds available in a variety of colours, shown in Morning Glory fabric from £62, Barretts of Woodbridge

This pretty Roman blind helps to add height to this small cottage window, Rendall & Wright

Sanderson Spring Flower curtains from £151.99, Glasswells

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APRIL 2015

Sanderson Oleander curtains from ÂŁ138.99, Glasswells

Roman blind and Banquette seat cushion floral stripe in French grey, curtains Barathea in Celedon, Red House Textiles

Enhance your home with beautifully designed windows and doors Designed to your individual requirements, in a range of finishes and material choices to suit all styles and tastes, our windows and doors are certain to add value to your home.

Visit 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

Woodbridge Notcutts Garden Centre, Ipswich Road, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4AF. 01394 386666

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

www.burgess-group.com KM508677

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Homes & Interiors

Vision blind roller available in 4 different designs from ÂŁ101, Barretts of Woodbridge

New Seasons Collection, standard roller blind from ÂŁ62, Barretts of Woodbridge

Award winning interior design, creating beautiful, elegant and timeless interiors in the heart of Suffolk

www.rendallandwright.com EssentialSUFFOLK

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Excellent Servic Excellent Service e Highly Competitive Competitive Prices Prices from fr om the Lar Largest gest Independent Stockists Stockists in the area area Established in 1981 EB Carpets ha have ve over over 30 years years of successful successful 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. ockist of A ffamily amily firm w wee are are the area’s area’s lar largest gest independent st stockist 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.

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

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

Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Book and Lyrics by Don Black and Christopher Hampton Based on the Billy Wilder film

20th - 23rd May 2015 The Regent Theatre Ipswich Box office: 01473 433100

Website: www.ipswichregent.com Tickets £18.00 & £16.50 Concessions only on first night and Saturday matinee £16.00 & £14.50 Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £50.00 Group offer - buy 10 tickets and get 11th ticket free

Orchestrations by David Cullen & Andrew Lloyd Webber Original production by The Really Useful Group Ltd. Sunset Blvd Logo : TM & © 1993 RUG Ltd.

/IODSIpswich @IODS1

www.iods.co.uk

® Ipswich Operatic & Dramatic Society registered charity number 800129

• Large kitchen and bathroom showroom

WOODBRIDGE INTERIORS

• Villeroy & Boch, Matki Aqata & Hans Grohe

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SPECIALISTS

• German kitchen furniture, Corian & Neff • Full installation service • Free design

01394 386390 www.woodbridgeinteriors.co.uk

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

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Homes & Interiors

Interlude tie backs in a variety of colours £12.25, Glasswells

Venezia cable tie back £65.25, Glasswells

Prestigious Textiles new Printworks collection. Pictured here in Duomo from £30 per metre, Barretts of Woodbridge

Chalice curtain holdbacks £28.50, Glasswells

Vision 3 colour roller blind from £101, Barretts of Woodbridge

STOCKISTS Barretts of Woodbridge 40 – 42 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 384300 www.barretts.co.uk Glasswells Ranelagh Road, Ipswich or Newmarket Road Bury St Edmunds. T: 01473 253164 www.glasswells.co.uk Rendall & Wright T: 01787 375076 www.rendallandwright.co.uk Red House Textiles Red House Stables, The Red House, High Street, Ufford, Woodbridge. T: 01394 548110 www.redhousetextiles.com

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RED HOUSE TEXTILES

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A new fabric showroom, at Ufford near Woodbridge, is really rather unique to our county. Essential Suffolk finds out more

Business Profile | Red House Textiles

I

t’s not surprising that many of the leading designers and retailers of soft furnishing stock similar brands and themes – depending on current trends and market demands – so where can you shop for inspiring fabrics that will add individuality and unique flare to your home? Until now the answer was for you (or your interior designer) to trek to London to find options outside of the market leading ranges, however Nick Crocker’s approach at Red House Textiles will change all of that.

Nick is a qualified architectural interior designer who trained at the prestigious Inchbald School of Design in London, and has worked for several internationally acclaimed design practices, including Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler and Chester Jones. Having moved to Suffolk in 2013 with the intention of setting up his own business, he took the opportunity to take stock of what really made his creative juices flow and realised that it was the intricacies of designing with beautiful colours and textures, that was at the root of his passion. And so the decision to concentrate purely on fabrics and soft furnishings was reached but with a depth of range that is far broader than the accepted market leading brands.

One of the frustrations for shoppers trying to select suitable fabrics for curtains, blinds and upholstery comes with attempting to imagine how a fabric will appear in situ. Small swatches from sample books often look really impressive when presented all together in a collection but are difficult to imagine in isolation – especially for the untrained or inexperienced eye. Recognising this, Nick has a vast selection, in the hundreds, of large display samples in stock – large enough to spread out, drape over furniture or hang near a window – so that clients can get a realistic feel for how it might look in their home.

The collection of fabrics on offer at Red House Textiles has been carefully curated

by Nick and includes a bespoke selection sourced from niche suppliers across the UK, France and Spain. Most are produced using a variety of hand-made techniques like blocking and hand screen-printing but with a broad range of prices from as little as £25 per meter up to £250 per meter. Those that are kept in stock by the manufacturers can be ordered with immediate turn around however some are also made to order – printed especially for the customer and can even be tailored to suit.

Browsing in the calm and relaxed atmosphere of the showroom, the sympathetically converted stable block at The Red House, it’s easy to become enjoyably consumed by the textures, prints, patterns and colours around you.

The collection also includes trimmings to complement the fabrics and Nick is on hand to be as involved – or not – as you would like him to be. “We’re happy to take on projects of any scale” says Nick “whether you need one scatter cushion or an entire room scheme”.

To achieve this he works very closely with a select group of experts offering make up services for a complete range of soft furnishings if required and will draw on his years of interior design experience to guide his customers through the selection and design process.

INFORMATION Red House Textiles, Red House Stables, The Red House, High Street, Ufford, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 6EL Open daily Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm and by appointment if required.

T: 01394 548 110 www.redhousetextiles.com

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Antiques & Auctions

APRIL 2015

A BLAST FROM THE PAST Cast your minds back to 1998 if you will to a time when the heading on the leader column of a local newspaper proclaimed it had been serving the region for 124 years. 1998 was the year in which my firm was asked to auction an ancient cannon.

This was no ordinary piece of military hardware – well certainly not in the context of where it had been found – before it came into the hands of a family living in a village to the west of Ipswich. The relic of yesteryear was one of two which may well have dated back to the Napoleonic era and recovered when the ‘Suez Canal’ was dredged in 1879.

I put the words Suez Canal in quotes as that was an alternative name for what is more widely known as Loader’s Cut. This is a channel not far from Kyson Point on the Sutton Hoo side of the River Deben. By coincidence the cannon had also been passed down through the Banyard family to a certain Kenneth Siddons, who had previously occupied the butcher’s shop and house in Church Street, Woodbridge, which was later to become our office. Kenneth was often regarded as somewhat of an eccentric, still appearing with immaculately folded

James Neal

shirtsleeves to accompany his military attire and having the sort of fascination with weapons which would ring alarm bells in a very different way today.

As it happens, our Saleroom was built in Napoleonic times originally as a Theatre to provide entertainment, among others, for the troops occupying the barracks located on land between Old Barrack Road and Ipswich Road. This is where the Duke of York pub now stands. I recall the spirited bidding for the cannon when it came under the hammer and the strong competition for the lot included the Brewery associated with the pub. Eventually it was knocked down – and some would say highly appropriately – to a gentleman whose surname also happened to be Cannon!

The postscript to this story is that as a result of the publicity around the sale I was contacted by the owner of the second cannon recovered from the river and I am happy to report the two were reunited (well before match.com was invented!), after a private sale, to the aforementioned Mr Cannon.

John Paul and John Masters

Any carpet, any size at exceptional prices SUFFOLK CARPET WEAVERS ARE CELEBRATING OVER 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS THIS YEAR. THAT’S OVER 30 YEARS OF • Transforming homes across Suffolk • Personal, professional attention • Competitive prices

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• Fitting carpets and floorings • Bespoke designs • Glorious hand-whipped rugs

Suffolk Carpet Weavers Unit 5, Bridge Business Park Top Street, Martlesham IP12 4RB Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm Saturdays 9am – 1pm (excluding bank holidays)

01394 610202 www.suffolkcarpetweavers.com

Energy

EXCELLENT INVESTMENT FOR HOME OWNERS The size and energy usage of your home will very much determine what type of renewable energy solution is most suitable for your property and from which you will derive the most benefit.

For homes with a high heat demand, particularly older properties that are located off the gas grid, investing in a biomass heating system can have massive financial and green benefits. It will enable you to reduce, regulate and control your energy costs, whilst simultaneously generating an income through the government Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme for 7 years. With Solar PV installations you will reduce your electricity bills and generate an income via the government Feed-in Tariff (FiT) Scheme for 20 years.

Key benefits include: • Generate the FiT or RHI income index linked to inflation • Reduce your utility bills and future proof yourself against rising energy prices • Reduce your carbon footprint When considering Solar PV or Biomass for your home there are a few key facts that you need to consider: • The Feed-In tariff and RHI are reviewed quarterly. This may result in a reduction in the tariffs, so don’t hesitate to

Linda Grave

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investigate further if this is something you may be interested in taking forward.

Don’t be put off if your property is listed. It may be that there are solutions available to you and reputable installers and providers of PV and Biomass will be well versed in how to deal with listed properties.

Take a look at your average annual fuel spend – if you are off grid and use LPG or oil then you could save considerably by converting to biomass.

A biomass boiler needs to be housed in a water-tight area with space to store fuel. However, lack of internal space need not be an issue as containerised solutions are available.

If you live in a rural community there are schemes available to support community-funded installations.

Established in 2007, with our renewables centre based in Woodbridge, East Green Energy take pride in our reputation as East Anglia’s leading & longest serving independent renewable energy company. If you would like more information on Solar PV or Biomass for your home, farm or business then East Green Energy offer free non obligatory site surveys so if you are interested in finding out more about the benefits for your home please visit our website www.eastgreenenergy.co.uk or call our offices on 01394 380557 and we will be happy to help you.

BEAUTIFUL SPACES FOR YOUR HOME AND GARDEN

• Design & Build • Designer Kitchens, Bathrooms & Wet Rooms • Property and Home Refurbishment • Property Renovation • New Build Homes • Home Extensions A complete building service from planning to completion Our work is always completed to the highest possible standard

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

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Homes for contemporary living making space and adding value Are you looking to enhance your home by merging the inside space into the garden with stunning bi-fold doors?

Do you need additional room for a social area where you can entertain your family and friends? Or add an orangery so that you can enjoy your surroundings all-year round?

Whatever your preference, Hall Brothers can design and create the space you need to suit your family’s lifestyle, complementing the style of your home and adding value to your property.

At Hall Brothers, Builders & Joiners, we’re traditional craftsmen who take an old-fashioned 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 creating additional living space, we’ll work with you to find a stylish solution to suit your home.

Inside story A Hall Brothers’ orangery or garden room enables you to see at first hand the exceptional quality that comes as standard.

We use exceptional quality hardware too, available in a choice of materials including superbly durable brass, stainless steel, chrome and forged black 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 roof can be solid or toughened double-glazed sealed units and we offer the option of high performance, low energy insulating glass units.

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

Contemporary features 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 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. Contemporary solutions include bi-fold doors, with options for three, four, five or six panels.

That’s not all. Even in the most traditional designs we can incorporate a wide range of innovative contemporary features from self-cleaning 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 adding space to your home – 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.

Exceptional standards of 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.

Call for a brochure on

01206 298746 or 01473 365167 or visit us at www.hall-brothers.co.uk

APRIL 2015

So which plants are going to be the rising stars in the garden this year? Catharine Howard shares her thoughts on the subject with her top ten plants for summer

TOP TEN

must have plants for summer

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I have always loved the rare and elusive Tulipa sprengeri, a wild tulip from the Pontic coast of Turkey, ever since I first worked in a bulb nursery and eyed it up for my magnolia flowerbed. The last of the tulips to flower, it heralds the arrival of summer. Tulipa sprengeri is a species tulip which means that it is hardy and will increase well. I have grown this lovely tulip on the fringes of dappled shade and it is a truly red and beautiful flower.

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The bottlebrush plant Callistemon citrinis will need to be planted somewhere sheltered to keep it happy in the winter. This glorious evergreen shrub has the wackiest of red inflorescences and the leaves smell of lemon. Tuck it into your planting plan with care. I am always on the lookout for shrubs that do not get massive – this one makes a tidy 2.5 metres.

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Eremurus White Beauty. Now I know that foxtail lilies are on the up and up and are a flower arranger’s delight.

I have seen them growing amongst old shrub roses, rising up like crazy big delphiniums. Plant them with care, very near to the surface with their tentacles buried and expect oohs and aahs when they flower. The text book will tell you that eremurus require sandy soil but Christopher Ireland-Jones at Avon Bulbs tells me that he grows them in with success in heavy loam.

Gardening

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Lupins have fallen out of fashion as the prairie style of planting has become mainstream but I recommend that you rediscover them and use them to fill gaps in the border. Lupins are fast growing and the choice of colours is mouth-watering.

Cut them down after flowering to bring a second flush. Their roots are nitrogen fixing which is good for the soil.

Zantedeschia aethiopica is the Ethiopian lily- which is an odd choice of name because it actually comes from Lesotho.

The great thing about this plant is its enduring ability to grow in pretty much any type of soil; dry or waterlogged.

It looks particularly alluring grown in or near water – along, say a formal rill or in a ditch as seen here.

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Gardening

APRIL 2015

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Solenostrum scutellarioides is the official name for coleus, the ultimate type of bedding plants. Extremely fashionable in Edwardian times they have been languishing in the corner of the plot for too many years. Think velvety large leaved nettles and let your eyes run with crazy longing over the permutations of different mottlings, markings and uber designer leaves. Best to start from seed and use them as accent plants at the front of the flower border.

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Bedding plants really do give a fabulous opportunity to make a whacky and exotic statement in round the garden.

Forget good taste and plan a temporary rioting jungle. A perfect plant for this is Amaranthus caudatus which comes in many cultivars – dark or light in leaf colour and it will make you over a metre in height of seed waving crazy giants to spingle spangle round the garden.

You can eat both leaves and seeds.

Phyllostachys iridescens. I mention this bamboo with a sad caution as last month I dug mine up and moved it and it is sulking to find itself in a sunny site, whipped round by the winds of late spring. Bamboos are too often avoided on the grounds of vigorous growth. If you have got a place in your garden where you are looking for height and where evergreen but not dense growth is wanted, then the movement and susurration of a clump will make a fabulous statement. This form behaves as a clump and an early spring chop round the plant with a ditching spade will prevent the plant from spreading beyond the allotted space. Sit back and enjoy the beauty of the burnished green stems of different hues.

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When choosing shrubs a good vase shape and non-thicketing habit is something to look out for. Rosa moyesii is well known for extravagant curvy burnished red hips and a deep red single flower, like a dog-rose on a rich diet.

Less vaunted for its excellent tidy, sky reaching stems which colour up in shades of sandy yellow and olive. This is a shrub rose that behaves itself and does not lash about – so many of the larger roses behave like crazy giant crabs.

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Red hot pokers come from South Africa and they seem to be getting bigger and ruder. They are not the easiest plant to grow but there are graceful cultivars such as Kniphofia Bees Lemon and Kniphofia Little Maid. Plant them for a touch of the exotic in your garden.

INFORMATION Catharine Howard is a designer, writer and gardening coach with many years’ experience in creating and renovating gardens.

For a consultation or garden design contact her at www.thegardeningcoach.co.uk

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Property

Essential

PROPERTY 78 79 81 82 83 85 86 87 88 100

Fenn Wright Jackson-Stops & Staff Neals Bennett Homes Clarke & Simpson Grier & Partners Jennie Jones Castle Estates Savills Hopkins Homes

80 Melton

84 Culpho

86 Kettleburgh EssentialSUFFOLK

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Suffolk, based in Ipswich

01473 358 400 Specialists in the sale of town, village and country houses.

Experts in equestrian property.

A substantial period country cottage situated in a picturesque setting on the outskirts of Woodbridge. The property benefits from two separate annexe buildings which is perfect for further family accommodation.

A brand new detached family home situated on the outskirts of this popular village to the west of Ipswich. The property offer spacious accommodation and benefits from a double garage, ample parking and a good sized garden.

• • • • •

• • • • • • •

4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms 3 reception rooms Views over meadowland Just under third of an acre In and out driveway EPC Rating E

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4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms 3 reception rooms Kitchen/breakfast room Generous garden Double garage & parking

!

Situated in an elevated position, is this well-presented five bedroom executive detached house. The property is just one of five located on a private road on the outskirts of this sought-after village which provides excellent access to the A12/A14. !

• 5 bedrooms • 3 reception rooms • Landscaped garden with outside lighting • Large terrace • Panoramic countryside views • Double garage & parking • Plot of approximately 0.265 acres • ECP Rating C

suffolk@fennwright.co.uk Associated London office: Park Lane, Mayfair: 020 7409 8438

A unique home with versatile accommodation over three floors, offering panoramic views out across the sea, River Deben and Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club. The property also benefits from no onward chain.

!

• • • • • • • •

Approximately 0.56 acres 5/6 bedrooms 3/4 reception rooms 5 bathrooms Quadruple garage Direct access to beach Sea and river views Panoramic views over golf course • EPC Rating D

fennwright.co.uk

jackson-stops.co.uk

Coddenham – Equestrian – 35 acres

Nr Framlingham – Far Reaching Views

An outstanding fully restored Grade II Listed 15th Century country house with extensive equestrian facilities and approximately 35.5 acres (sts). 3 reception rooms.

Kitchen/breakfast room. 4 bedrooms. 3 bath/shower rooms. Grooms cottage. 14 loose boxes. Outdoor manege. 10 post & rail paddocks.

Imposing Grade II Listed historic hall, commanding an elevated setting amidst 11 acres, with far reaching rural views. 4 reception rooms. Kitchen/breakfast & service room. 7 bedrooms. 4 bath/shower room. Meadows & paddocks.

Guide Price £1,400,000

Guide Price £1,995,000

Nr Debenham – Classic Old Rectory

Snape Watering – 6 acres & Holiday Lets

A delightful former rectory, amidst mature gardens and woodland grounds, adjacent to the parish church. 4 reception rooms. Kitchen & service rooms. 5 bedrooms.

4 bath/shower rooms. In all about 1.5 acres. EPC=E

A period farmhouse with 3 separate ‘Holiday Lets’ and extensive range of barns, all set off a long no-through lane. 3 reception rooms. Kitchen/breakfast room. Conservatory.

5 bedrooms. In all about 6.1 acres. EPC=F

Guide Price £800,000

Guide Price £795,000

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

People Property Places

APRIL 2015

ST AUDREY’S HOUSE FACTS LOCATION: MELTON GUIDE PRICE: £1,000,000 AGENT: SAVILLS

GEORGIAN STYLE St Audry’s House is the impressive and classically proportioned principal conversion of an iconic, Grade II listed period property in the beautiful setting of Melton Park, Suffolk. It is available for sale through Savills Ipswich with a guide price of £1 million.

Peter Ogilvie from Savills Ipswich comments, “St Audry’s House has been sympathetically converted into a modern and stylish home. The property benefits from a wealth of period features with particularly well proportioned rooms, exceptionally high ceilings and full height sash windows which provide bright and light accommodation throughout.”

St Audry’s offers spacious accommodation comprising four reception rooms, with an open, modern kitchen and breakfast room which boasts large French windows opening out to the garden at the rear of the house. There are six bedrooms and four bathrooms, three of which are en suite.

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The house is exceptionally well presented having been refurbished with great flair by the current owner and the highly regarded interior designer Julia Sellwood.

Many original features have been retained and the house also benefits from several open fireplaces. The top floor provides great flexibility with potential to create staff accommodation or alternatively a self contained annexe. The property also benefits from three garages and two gate houses/lodges.

Melton Park is an exceedingly well thought-out development blending Grade II listed Georgian buildings with sympathetically designed contemporary homes in a parkland setting. The mature surroundings with ancient woodlands and a variety of lovely walks add to the appeal.

Ufford Park golf and luxury spa resort is just minutes away offering a range of facilities. Woodbridge is close by, with picturesque narrow streets lined with interesting historic buildings including a number of multiple and independent

retailers, restaurants, doctors surgeries and dental practices. The library, swimming pool and cinema (where occasional live shows are held) are grouped close to the river and train station from where some direct services run through to London's Liverpool Street Station. More frequent services are available from Ipswich.

The coastal belt, Snape Maltings Concert Hall and Minsmere Bird Reserve are within comfortable travelling distance and those keen to play sports can take advantage of the excellent sailing, golf courses and equestrian facilities found in the area. There are independent and state schools for children of all ages in Woodbridge and Ipswich.

INFORMATION Savills 01473 234816 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

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

BYNG HALL ROAD UFFORD - FOR SALE BY TENDER with potential to improve the existing property or to demolish and redevelop the site

Hall, 2 Reception Rooms, Conservatory, Kitchen, 2 Bedrooms and a Bathroom plus 2 Attic Rooms.

Garage, Car Port and Garden. EPC Band D Closing date for Tender 12 noon 10th April 2015 - Guide Price ÂŁ300,000

Eye, Suffolk SHOW HOME MASTER BEDROOM WITH ENSUITE SHOWER ROOM

SPACIOUS LIVING ROOM WITH FRENCH DOORS TO A PRIVATE GARDEN AND THE COURTYARD

CONTEMPORARY FITTED KITCHENS WITH BOSCH OVEN, HOB AND DISHWASHER

MOVE IN WHEN YOU WANT TO

Ideal home and gardens

PART EXCHANGE* your existing property for a new home at Maltsters’ Yard and let Bennett Homes take the stress out of the buying and selling process.

Located in the attractive market town of Eye, Maltsters’ Yard comprises just 16 high specification homes set around a communal landscaped courtyard garden. There are 14 two and three bedroom properties, all with garages and their own private gardens, also two spacious apartments.

This is an age-restricted development for over 55s and ideal for couples or people living alone.

We have incorporated features we know are important for active retirees - including the fact that your home is perfect for a ‘lock up and leave’ lifestyle for holiday and extended leisure time.

To find out more talk to one of our Home Advisers on

01284 766057 * Terms and conditions apply

Quote ref ESM0415 Details correct at time of going to press.

You are welcome to visit Maltsters’ Yard Show Home.

To arrange an appointment, for more information or to request a brochure, call 01284 766057 and speak to a Home Adviser 2 bedroom houses from £214,995 3 bedroom houses from £239,995 2 bedroom apartments from £149,995 www.bennett-homes.co.uk/esm0415

Worlingworth £1,350,000

Snape £795,000

An award-winning 7 bedroom farmhouse with stunning contemporary extensions and impressive linked converted barn, situated in an idyllic rural location. 15 acres of grounds and gardens including a courtyard garden and wildflower meadows extending to 3.6 acres. Substantial barn with offices. Ref: 5049

A spacious 4 bedroom Victorian farmhouse, together with converted former chapel and Old School House holiday cottage, with large rear gardens and located just outside the centre of the village. Workshop and store. Substantial gravel driveway. EPC = E Ref: 5264

Earl Soham £640,000

Campsea Ashe £430,000

Winston Green £395,000

An attractive Grade II Listed period farmhouse set within mature garden and grounds extending to 2½ acres, on the edge of the well served village of Earl Soham. Large timber framed Suffolk barn with scope for conversion. Double garage. Ref: 5197

A beautifully presented semi-detached cottage with views over farmland. Two receps, cloakroom, pantry, utility room and kitchen. Five bedrooms, one with en-suite. Family bathroom. Large gardens and parking. EPC = D Ref: 5205

A spacious detached house with landscaped gardens, standing adjacent to open countryside. Two receps, bespoke hand-built kitchen, utility room and cloakroom. Three bedrooms, one with en-suite shower room. Bathroom. Double garage. EPC = D Ref: 5257

Stradbroke £315,000

Worlingworth £285,000

Ashbocking £145,000

A detached chalet bungalow sitting in a plot of half an acre (sts). Hall, sitting/dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, lean-to conservatory, dining room/bedroom three and shower room. Two first floor bedrooms and bathroom. Garage and gardens. EPC = D Ref: 5136

A detached period property neighbouring the church in a pretty part of the village. Kitchen/breakfast room, two reception rooms, cloakroom and utility area. Four bedrooms and bathroom. 26’ garage/workshop.

Gardens. EPC = F Ref: 5157

A semi-detached property with open plan accommodation, conveniently situated in Ashbocking.

Entrance lobby, sitting room and kitchen. Cloakroom.

Two first floor bedrooms and bathroom. Courtyard garden at the rear. Carport. EPC = C Ref: 5251

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

T: 01728 724200

www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

APRIL 2015

2 ABBEY FARM BARNS FACTS LOCATION: CULPHO GUIDE PRICE: ÂŁ795,000 AGENT: FENN WRIGHT

CULPHO CONVERSION 2 Abbey Farm Barns is a stunning five bedroomed barn conversion on the outskirts of the small hamlet of Culpho, which dates back to the The Doomsday book of 1086. Situated in an idyllic rural position the stunning conversion has views over surrounding farmland, yet is still within easy reach of both Ipswich and the market town of Woodbridge.

Finished to a high standard the property retains many original features typically associated with barn conversions whilst benefiting from the luxuries of the modern day that include underfloor heating and sealed unit double glazed Idigbo windows and doors throughout.

The barn has been cleverly designed and finished to retain its period character with a blend of contemporary style.

On the ground floor a fully glazed door gives access to the reception hall with an oak stair flight to the first floor, stone floor and internal oak doors giving access

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to the inner hall, master bedroom and drawing room. The drawing room is impressive with a vaulted oak timbered ceiling, oak flooring and impressive Astro Flamm log burning stove.

For those with a culinary interest the kitchen is comprehensively fitted in grey beige Shaker style units and granite work tops with integrated Siemens dishwasher, five ring electric hob with extractor canopy above, range of wall cupboards housing two Siemens electric ovens, microwave and Espresso steam coffee maker. There is space for an American style fridge/freezer and an island unit with breakfast bar, exposed oak timbers and tiled floor.

Four of the five bedrooms are on the ground floor, two with ensuites, and the fifth bedroom on the first floor. The ground floor master bedroom has French style doors to the side, oak timbers and steps leading down to a dressing area

fitted with a range of wardrobes and further door to the ensuite.

Outside there is a private shared gravel driveway giving access to a farmhouse and three barns, well set back from the main road. There is a small front lawned area with two parking spaces. To the west of the courtyard is a double bay cart lodge with power and light and a lock up store to the rear. To the side of the barn are twin five bar gates giving access to a further parking area in turn leading to the lawned garden enclosed by panel and post and rail fencing opening onto superb farmland views beyond. To the immediate rear of the barn is a patio area with a glazed windbreak. In all the gardens and grounds extend to half an acre.

INFORMATION Fenn Wright 01473 358400 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

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APRIL 2015

HISTORIC HALL KETTLEBURGH HALL FACTS LOCATION: KETTLEBURGH GUIDE PRICE: £1,995,000 AGENT: JACKSON-STOPS & STAFF

Kettleburgh Hall is an imposing country house enjoying a commanding position on the edge of its popular and active namesake village. Sitting within eleven acres it has far reaching views across the picturesque countryside of the Deben Valley and is only two and a half miles from the historic town of Framlingham.

The house with its impressive chimneys dates from the 16th Century and is Grade II* listed. It has well laid out and generous accommodation comprising an entrance hall, four reception rooms – with impressive stone fireplaces in two – kitchen/breakfast by Plain English with a spacious boot/utility room and separate pantry. The property has seven bedrooms plus four bathroom/shower rooms.

Outside, the oak lined driveway sweeps between paddocks and meadows beyond the house and gardens to an extensive courtyard, fronting onto which is a multipurpose range of flexible use barns including a traditional timber framed former granary (40' x 20') providing three parking bays and a lean-to store with a multipurpose store room above. Adjacent to which is the cart lodge barn (34' x 17') which provides three further parking bays and utility stores either end and above.

FRISTON GUIDE PRICE

£425,000

A beautiful Grade II listed 4 bedroom house at the heart of the village. The property has been well maintained and has a sunny garden and two garages. Porch, hall, cloaks, kitchen, 4 receptions, lobby/utility, en suite shower room, en suite bathroom and further shower room. Wood burning stoves in three of the reception rooms. Wealth of exposed beams and studwork. Oil-fired central heating.

SNAPE £425,000 Architect designed 3 bed detached house.

Hall, 2 reception, open plan kitchen/dining/ conservatory, Garage, studio room. EPC-D

WICKHAM MARKET GUIDE PRICE £250,000

Grade II listed 4 bed semi, many period features. kitchen/breakfast room 3 reception, study, 4 bed, bath/shower room, garden.

Aldeburgh 01728 454622

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SAXMUNDHAM £485,000 Fine Edwardian detached house. 6 beds. utility, kitchen/breakfast room, 4 receptions, cellar, 2 showers, bathroom, garden, garage EPC-E

Saxmundham 01728 605511 www.jennie-jones.com

There is a secure garaging/workshop range (50' x 20') with a large concrete frame portal building (65' x 45') beyond which links into a multipurpose barn (65' x 54'), which would be ideal for the inclusion of stalls to create an American style stable range.

INFORMATION Jackson-Stops & Staff 01473 218218 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

HEVENINGHAM PRICE £335,000 Beautifully converted Victorian School House. Hall, lobby, school room with wood burning stove, fabulous kitchen/diner, utility/cloakroom, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, private rear walled garden, small front garden. Garage. EPC-G

SUDBOURNE GUIDE PRICE £369,000 Extended and renovated former Forge. Hall, kitchen/diner, huge sitting room, gallery, 2 beds, 2 baths, garden. Parking. EPC-D

Southwold 01502 722065

WESTLETON GUIDE PRICE £359,000 Attractive detached 18th/19th century 3 bed house. 2 reception, kitchen, cloaks, bathroom, Integral garage, courtyard garden. EPC-G

Better The new Civic.

Sleeker

New sportier design with rear spoiler.

Further Up to 76.3mpg.

The brand new Civic range from £15,975 to £25,680*.

JOHN BANKS HONDA

JOHN BANKS HONDA

Felixstowe Road, Nacton, Ipswich, Suf folk IP10 0DE Call 01473 353377 or visit w w w.ipswich-honda.co.uk

Kempson Way, Moreton Hall, Bur y St Edmunds, Suf folk IP32 7AR Call 01284 330557 or visit w w w.johnbanks-honda.co.uk

F u e l c o n s u m p t i o n f i g u r e s f o r t h e C i v i c 1 . 6 S p o r t i n m p g ( l / 1 0 0 k m) : U r b a n 6 8 . 9 ( 4 .1 ) , E x t r a U r b a n 8 0 . 7 ( 3 . 5 ) , C o m b i n e d 7 6 . 3 ( 3 . 7 ) . C O 2 e mis s i o ns : 9 8 g / k m . F u e l c o ns u m p t i o n f i gu r e s s o u r c ed fr o m o f f i cial E U - r e gu la t ed la bor ator y tes t r es ult s, a r e p rovid ed for com pa rison pu r poses a nd may not r eflec t r eal-li fe d riving ex perienc e.

Model Shown: Civic Sport 1.6 Manual in Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic at £21,345 On The Road (OTR). *15YM Civic range from £15,975 for 1.4 S Manual non metallic to £25,680 for 1.8 EX+ Auto metallic. Terms and Conditions: New retail 15YM Civic ordered from 01 February 2015 and registered by by 31 31 Mar March 2015. Subject to model and colour availability. Offers applicable at participating dealers and are at the promoter’s absolute discretion.

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

Ipswich School Sports Centre Grand Opening The Ipswich School Sports Centre at Rushmere was officially opened by George Pinner and Harry Martin, Old Ipswichians and Team GB hockey players. The opening was followed by a VIP reception at the centre.

Among those in attendance were main event sponsor Seven Group and sponsor Medpac.

Karl Daniels, Harry Martin, Roy Dunnett, George Pinner, Nicholas Weaver

Adrian Seagars, Bill Williams, Amanda Childs

Steve Cole, Jackie Dunnett, Nikki Cole

Karl Daniels, Michael Kurn

Bev Hudson, Jayne Farrant

Nicky & David Pinner

Ila & Prad Patel

0844 499 1630

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

A fantastic, award winning golf course with superb greens & a 2 storey heated driving range.

Essential Faces

Suffolk Coastal Business & Community Awards The Suffolk Coastal Business & Community Awards recognises and celebrates the contributions, initiatives and successes of businesses, groups and individuals over the past 18 months.

With more than 100 entries the winners which were announced at the awards dinner at The Hangar, Milsoms Kesgrave Hall. To mark the 40th anniversary of Suffolk Coastal District Council, Cllr Bob Snell, Chairman of the Council, opened the evening with the new Chairman’s Award – to honour the business that has made a significant contribution to Suffolk Coastal over the past 40 years. The winners are pictured opposite.

Matthew Chapple, Ian Duggan, Jenny Evans, Rachel Dixey, Joe Hunt, John Driver

Laura Hack, Hana Ballard

Heidi Collins, Sonia Lambert, Sarah Shinnie

Hannah Mortimer, Alex Tarry, Clare Flaherty, Naomi Tarry, Jade Brewer

Alison & Chris Wakefield, Ray & Anne Herring

Paul Rous, Daniela Elstone

Aimee Clark, Geraldine Milsom, Anna Martin, Louise Sinnott, Paul Milsom

Ian Culf, T-J Haworth-Culf

Christina, Rosie & Annie Barham

Relax in our luxury Thermal Suite Spa, work out in the Health Club’s gym or swim in the pool.

0844 499 1630

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

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

Services to the community Award (individual) James Lightfoot

The Innovation Award Midas Productions

The Health & Well Being Award Sizewell & Leiston Karate

The Community Safety Award Felixstowe Volunteer Coast Patrol

The Charity Champion Award Mandy Hearle

The Customer Focus Award Melton Day Nursery

Team of the Year Award Home Start Suffolk Coastal

The People Development Award Christies Care

The Great & Green Award Midas Productions

The Enabling Communities Award East Anglian SailingTrust

Services to the community Award (group) Level Two Youth Project

A

Encouraging Tourism Award Best of Suffolk

0844 499 1630

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

Chairman's Award Brafe Engineering

Independent Business of the Year Award R&S Hardware

Easter Sunday Lunch in The Park Restaurant 2 course £16.00 3 courses £20.00 Arrive early for the Children’s Easter Egg Hunt, please pre-book.

Essential Faces

Easton Harriers Hunt Ladies Day Over 50 ladies recently gathered at Chillesford Lodge, which had been kindly loaned by George and Ali Watson, for the start of the bi-annual Easton Harriers Ladies day. Breakfast was cooked

by Master of the Hunt Alun Thomas (with assistance from Sharon Haste and Julia Rodwell), Hunt Chairman Ric Ackland-Snow was on waiting duties and Michael Fogg-Elliot the attentive barman. Breakfast was followed by a day’s trailing and concluded with afternoon tea.

Marion Fletcher, Penny Watts, Caroline Aitchison, Mel Penn, Sue Leggett, Sarah Smye

Rebecca Regis, Georgina Salter

Claire Hinitt

Helen Whitbread, Diane Whayman, Laura Cochrane, Jenny James

Jackie Thomas

Sue & John Howis

Sarah Long, Libby Wilson-Smith, Nicola Warner

Trish Niblock, Sue Bell, Daniella Bruce

Marianne Hutson, Dave Bingham

Enjoy our NEW Sunday Lunch menu in The Park Restaurant 2 courses £14.95 3 courses £16.95

0844 499 1630

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

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

Andrea Last, Mark Rendall, Toni Scales

Liz Harrison, Claire Harris, Cheryl Grover

Michael Fogg-Elliot, Jane Kinsella

Rebecca Brooks, Julia Taylor

Ric Ackland-Snow, Alun Thomas

Mary Hinde, Margaret Robert

Nicky Gooch, Rebecca Smith, Georgie Smith, Sarah Chadwick

Michael Fogg-Elliot, Lydia Freeman

R

Sharon Haste, Jayne Ackland-Snow, Julia Rodwell

0844 499 1630

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

Ann Langley

Jackie Street, Liz Booth, Steph Johnson

Enjoy Afternoon Tea with fantastic views only £11.95 for one person or £16.95 for 2 people.

Essential Faces

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

Woolverstone Macmillan Centre Appeal Launch Following its successful campaign to raise £800,000 to refurbish the chemotherapy outpatients clinics at Ipswich Hospital, Woolverstone Wish has joined forces with Macmillan Cancer Support to help raise a further £3.7 million to build the new Woolverstone Macmillan Centre – an innovative new cancer treatment centre at Ipswich hospital that will transform cancer care locally.

Christopher Hudson, Simon Philips, Martin Westlake, Ann Hudson, Mandy Jordan

Nisa & Alex Heys, Pauline Meadows, Irene Spencer

Jo Leah, Ian & Wendy Alcock

Julie Fryatt, Nick & Annette Hulme

Paddy & Sarah Bishopp

Valerie Le Marchand, Juliet Belfield, Lizzie Pearson, Sue Key-Burr, Annie Liniker, Ginni Riggs (behind) James Riggs, Chris Woods

Alison Power, Kate Ashton, Gwyneth Tyler

Wendy Page, Claire Beeson, Cheryl Thayer, Sara Hook, Alan Jones

A fantastic, award winning golf course with superb greens & a 2 storey heated driving range.

0844 499 1630

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

Directory

Essential

DIRECTORY HEALTH & BEAUTY

DR BELLA SMITH MBBS BmedSci (first) MRCP MRCGP (merit) DFSRH

GP and Cosmetic Doctor Treatments for: • Excessive Sweating of armpits and hands • Thread veins of legs • Injections for wrinkles

01473 217592 Email: practise@gilmourpiper.co.uk HOMES AND GARDENS

Quality Bespoke Fitted Kitchens at Affordable Prices 3

01473 890122 www.woodfarmkitchens.co.uk

www.angliafactors.co.uk

SUFFOLK HOT TUBS AT DECK WORLD LIVE THE DREAM

www.foxwoodceramics.co.uk

New American built spa, lounger + 3 seats £4750.00 includes free delivery package (Usual price £500.00)

Spas in stock for quick delivery. Garden buildings, composite decking, artificial grass, landscape and design specialists. Splasher pools. Hot tub chemicals in stock DO YOU HAVE CHICKENS? KEEP THEM SAFE WITH ‘CLUCK ‘N’ SHUT’ FROM JUST £115. CALL FOR DETAILS. Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, IP10 ODE (Opposite the Shepherd and Dog)

Tel: (01473) 655777 www.deckworld.co.uk

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

PRINTING

MOTORING

Do you have a book to self-publish?

We can help you turn your idea into a reality

Gipping Gipping td Press P ress LLtd www.gippingpress.co.uk Tel: 01449 721599 enquiries@gippingpress.co.uk

Sales, Service & Repair The Woodlands, Badley, Needham Market, Suffolk, IP6 8RS Tel: 01449 774222 service@derrickwells.com

To advertise call 01473 809932, we’ll be happy to help and advise you EssentialSUFFOLK

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My Suffolk

APRIL 2015

Minnie Moll is the Executive Officer for Membership and Marketing at the East of England Co-op. She talks about her life in Suffolk

Where were you born and how did you come to live in Suffolk?

I was born in Norwich but grew up in Suffolk. I love both counties but Suffolk is home. I grew up on a Thames Barge at Pin Mill on the river Orwell until I was 13 – a wonderful childhood. We were always outside, there was loads of mud and a very safe, close community.

We had two other barges that we sailed so I was always on the water. It really was very Arthur Ransome. I came back to Suffolk ten years ago and now live in North Suffolk just south of Harleston.

We were living in London and I wanted my children to have some of the freedom I had and to grow up close to nature and fresh air. We have never regretted the move for a moment. It felt like coming home when I started working for the East of England Co-op, as our offices are at Wherstead Park overlooking the Orwell.

Stonham Aspal has stunning drifts of snowdrops in the Spring and a fascinating pet graveyard. A favourite from my childhood is the walk along the river between Pin Mill and Woolverstone, which always had incredible poppy fields when I was growing up. And of course you can’t beat walking on the beaches at Southwold and Walberswick.

Have you got any hobbies?

I love gardening and growing my own fruit and veg. I spend much of my time at home animal wrangling with our two dogs, two cats, chickens and ducks. It’s not a hobby as such but I dream of owning a vintage tractor. Each year I borrow one and drive in the ‘Pink Ladies Tractor Run’ with about 150 women, in aid of Breast Cancer research.

Where do you like to eat out?

We are lucky to have a much acclaimed gastro pub in the next village. The Fox and Goose in Fressingfield is fantastic and has the option of fine dining or pub food. We recently had a great meal at Pea Porridge, a tucked away little treasure in Bury St Edmunds. There are several good restaurants on the Waterfront in Ipswich and it can feel almost Mediterranean on a sunny day.

The Crown pub in our village of Weybread does wonderful home cooked Sunday lunch and I will never tire of sitting on the beach at Southwold or Aldeburgh with fish and chips in paper and a bottle of Prosecco.

Where do you like to shop?

The Suffolk Food Hall near Wherstead Park is a treat for food, drink and gifts.

I enjoy having time to explore small market towns like Woodbridge, Framlingham and Eye where there is always a gem tucked away selling antiques or bric a brac. Ipswich has an area called the Saints around St Peter’s Street with lots of great little independent shops. I spend a fortune in garden centres, mainly Notcutts in Woodbridge where I used to work.

And of course I shop regularly at my local East of England Co-op.

What makes the county special?

Having travelled the world, lived in America and Australia and then London for years, I honestly feel that we have everything here in Suffolk. We have beautiful countryside, varied coastline, rivers, great sailing, beautiful villages and towns. There is huge creativity in the county and a slightly eccentric quirkiness. I think there is a real energy in the business sector and a feeling of pride in what we have and what we can do in the future. We also have exceptional established food and drink brands and so many new, upcoming small producers to keep Suffolk as a leading light in local produce.

Are there some special places in Suffolk that you’d recommend?

Pin Mill is still a very special place. It is tucked away down a little lane, the tide comes up the side of the Butt and Oyster pub and there is always great ‘people watching’. Thames barges are such a part of our local heritage and it is great seeing them on the foreshore at Pin Mill.

In fact the whole Shotley peninsula is beautiful, peaceful and very special.

How do you like to relax?

I love walking and I do my best thinking while walking my two Jack Russells, Archie and Tinker. There are great walks close to the river in the Waveney valley where I live. Thornham Woods near

Adnams, Aspall or Greene King?

These are all Sourced Locally Suppliers for the East of England Co-op – so I couldn’t possibly choose! We are spoilt for choice for great food and drink in Suffolk.

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Is there one picture you’d take to sum up our county?

It would have to be rural and green with a huge sky. But also quirky. Maybe an old boy driving a tractor down a lane, with his dog running along behind it.

Where would you take newcomers on a tour of the county?

Pin Mill, Orford, Aldeburgh, Southwold, Walberswick then inland to Framlingham and Lavenham with several stops en route to admire churches and art galleries.

Foxwood is an established local family business offering an extensive range of ceramic, porcelain, glass and natural stone wall and floor tiles. Our showroom has a comprehensive display with the majority of products being exclusive in our region with both contemporary and traditional ranges to suit all budgets.

As well as our quality tiles we have wonderful bathroom products on display including baths, basins, fitted furniture, showers, taps and designer radiators.

Visit our showroom 36 –38 Woodbridge Road (A1214), Rushmere St Andrew, Ipswich.

T: 01473 617050 E: info@foxwoodceramics.co.uk

www.foxwoodceramics.co.uk

Inspired by tradition

TRADITIONAL CHARACTER, CONTEMPORARY LIVING If you're searching for a new home with traditional charm as well as all the internal features you desire for comfortable, convenient and stylish living, look no further than Hopkins Homes and Hopkins and Moore.

We are East Anglia's leading developers, building collections of homes to exceptionally high standards, each one individually designed to complement its setting, be it town, village, countryside or coast.

Call us or visit our website for further information hopkinshomes.co.uk • 01394 446860 Hopkins Homes builds traditional award winning homes throughout Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex