Essential Suffolk January & February 2020 by Achieve More Media

JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2020 | PRICELESS

Essential SUFFOLK

ABBEY CELEBRATIONS 1000 Years of Bury St Edmunds Abbey

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Celebrating all that makes our county great

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Welcome

Inspiring Fitness Extraordinary stories of health and well-being

Winter is with us, the festivities are behind us but it’s always reassuring that although the weather may be cold, wet and windy slowly and surely the longer days are on their way. A new year often brings good intentions; resolutions to make changes for the better.

15 Suffolk in Brief News from around the county

In this edition we bring you a powerful story on the health and fitness front about a former alcoholic who is now on a mission to help people across Suffolk embrace a healthier life. On page 10 Justin Bone talks about how he has transformed his life from living as a recovering alcoholic in a garage to embracing health and fitness and being invited to Downing Street to talk about his inspirational pop-up events at iconic buildings in the county. Have you ever fancied taking up running but worried you might fail at the first hurdle? Turn to page 25 to find out how the new One2Run5k programme might be just what you’re looking for to kick start your New Year health drive. We’ve also looked at a new initiative supported by Suffolk Community Foundation and other members of “Team Suffolk” to create a network of community champions in every parish across the county to disseminate information and ideas. Plus 2020 is a special year for Bury St Edmunds Abbey – celebrating 1,000 years with a series of special events that will gather interest from across the region, nation and the globe. There’s a brand new Pub Walk with Darcy from the newly refurbished and re-opened Ship Inn at Levington as well as fashion, interiors and some impressive properties for sale.

Barb Jungr – Mini Previews page 23

Welcome to 2020!

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS Copyright on all content is with Achieve More Media Limited. Reproduction in part or whole if forbidden without the express permission of the publishers. All prices, events and times were to the best of our knowledge correct at the time of going to press and you are encouraged to contact the venue prior to booking. All expressions and opinions within the publication are those of the editor including contributors. Essential Suffolk is a trading name of Achieve More Media Limited.

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C O NTE NT S

Pub Walks with Darcy

Property

A brand new route at Levington

A selection of our county’s finest homes for sale

Homes & Interiors

Essential Faces

Lighting ideas for your home

Highlight’s from Suffolk’s social calendar

What’s On

Gardening

My Suffolk

What to do and where to go in Suffolk during January & February

A place for books in an internet world

Suffolk medal recipient Rev Canon Sally Fogden MBE

Keep on Running page 26

Homes & Interiors page 48

Mini Previews The Ballard of Maria Marten, Barb Jungr, The Cotton Club and La Bohème

26 New Year Resolutions How to become a runner

30 Bury St Edmunds Abbey Celebrating 1000 years

34 Community Champions Could you be the voice of your community?

40 Fashion Casual comfort and firm foundations

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PAU S E F OR THOU GH T

Once the season of feasting and merriment is passed, the New Year brings plans for self improvement, health and fitness. But taking control of your life isn’t always straightforward. Anne Gould reports

PAUSE FOR THOUGHT THE POP UP GYM In the summer of last year Justin Bone launched PAUSE – an immersive yoga event in St Edmundsbury Cathedral. The pews were pushed back for a three hour yoga and gong bath experience – the first event of this kind ever to be held in a UK Cathedral. In 2020, Justin of The Pop Up Gym, is aiming to hold similar events at the cathedrals in Ely and Norwich, he has his sights on the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge and is now looking for an iconic building on Suffolk’s coast as well. These are by no means ordinary events – but then Justin is no ordinary man having once been gripped by alcoholism that made him fear for his life. He stopped drinking, locked himself away for two days while he underwent withdrawal alone. With no funds to rent anywhere conventional he heard of someone renting out garages cheaply in Bury St Edmunds, paid and moved in with the basics for survival. With a wind-up radio, no running water or electricity and having to hide the fact he was living there – which meant leaving in the morning before tradesmen using neighbouring workshops arrived for the day and returning once they had left – Justin discovered having a gym membership was invaluable. Going to Abbeycroft Leisure at 6.30am every day meant he was able to start a fitness regime which boosted his physical and mental health, as well as use the shower facilities. During the day he visited the library

– where he shaved in the toilets – and now looks back on his months living in the garage, as some of the happiest of his life. “I discovered a level of mental strength I didn’t think I had,” said Justin, 49. He attended regular AA meetings (“If you want to stop drinking, AA will save your life”) and ‘jumped’ out of bed every morning to go to the gym, lost four stone in weight and read self-help books. In June 2015, when authorities discovered where he was living, Justin moved into a recovery house with 14 other addicts, where he lived for 15 months before finding a flat with Government help. But Justin’s relationship with alcohol had started decades earlier. The schoolboy athlete, who still holds the county 100m record he set in 1986, said: “When I stopped my athletics career at the age of 19 I had been training every day for six to 12 hours. Suddenly I didn’t have my sport and then I didn’t have hours of every day filled. I’d been completely straight and sober up to that point, but I needed something to replace that time every day.” Working in bars, clubs and within the catering industry, Justin was at the helm when the Market Tavern pub, in Risbygate Street, was transformed into Bar Three, the town’s first ‘proper bar’, in 1999. It was there, living above the bar during what he describes as a ‘hedonistic time’, Justin began to have a problem with alcohol. ‰

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any shape or form will probably be pretty much at the bottom of your agenda. But yoga can be transformative, says Diana Malone. For the last two years Diana has been volunteering and running yoga classes at Ipswich Night Shelter and although not everyone wants to engage, those that do achieve relief from stress through this gentle exercise.

He moved on to manage the nightclub LF1, off Station Hill, then to London for acting work and catering industry jobs, before taking on Stowlangtoft Dark Horse in 2011. But, having been a functioning alcoholic for years, life started to unravel. In February 2016, Natalie Pace walked into the gym one morning, Justin was sober and in a much better place.

then disappear. Afterwards, hopefully, people will have made new friends or got something from it.” The first Pop-up Gym event was held in November 2017. Then in July 2018 Justin was invited to an event celebrating rural start-ups at No.10 Downing Street and the following week, the first Pop Up PAUSE event was held at St Edmundsbury Cathedral. Aged 49, Justin has a vigour for life and passion for wellbeing he is keen to share, but will never forget his unconventional journey. “No matter how low you think you have got or how much you have lost, you can still come back from it. There is help available, just let people know you need it,” he said. “I am amazed I am still here, but that is the reason I jump out of bed every morning. I love life – my second life.” www.thepopupgym.org

YOGA AT THE NIGHT SHELTER If you are homeless and battle every day to stay alive, particularly in winter, exercising in

“I signed up to do this because a long time ago I was facing homelessness myself. I was a young mum with two children and my husband walked out and because we were in Navy accommodation we had nowhere to go. Luckily the inevitable didn’t happen but I don’t think people realise just how close you can be to losing your home through no fault of your own.” At the night shelter Diana says that she’s one of a team of professionals who volunteer including chiropodists and hairdressers. “What yoga offers is a form exercise that provides some stress relief from what’s a very difficult life for the homeless. It gives them a breathing space so for a short while they don’t have to think about everyday life.” At the night shelter the people she is teaching are very much beginners. “My aim is to use stretching and beginner’s exercises aimed at getting their bodies to soften and release. Then at the end there’s a meditation. Not everyone wants to engage I normally have four or five people every class and it’s not always the same people because hopefully as time goes on individuals are rehomed and won’t be at the shelter.” Diana, who also holds sessions with Ormiston Families organised Suffolk’s first Sleep Out in December at Trinity Park as part of a nationwide campaign to end homelessness. www.dmyoga.co.uk

“When she walked in I was like ‘hello’. And right there is the start of the Pop Up Gym story,” said Justin. Gradually they got to know each other and in doing so made them realise how difficult it is to socialise at the gym. They formed the idea for the Pop Up Gym in July 2017 – with the vision of taking fitness to unusual locations – and, through Government initiatives and Menta support, it became a reality. “We knew it was very hard to meet people in a gym environment. That’s when we had this idea of bringing all these gym members together outside the gym for fitness events in different locations. Working out is the new going out,” said Justin. “We don't need premises, we just 'pop up', celebrate local businesses and organisations, and

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SUFFOLK in brief Good news stories from around the county

An inter-estuary pub quiz for a Suffolk based charity has raised £44,000. The event, in aid of The Alde & Ore Estuary Trust (AOET) which is raising money to protect the estuary towns, villages and farmland from flooding, featured 12 venues and more than 600 people competing in parallel pub quizzes. The community fundraising quiz ‘So You Thought You Knew Suffolk’ tested local knowledge and was hailed a roaring success. Local celebrity quiz masters included Nick Robinson, Maggi Hambling, Brad Jones and David Sheepshanks, who introduced the evening by a showing of a new Save Our Suffolk Estuary film explaining the need to maintain the estuary river walls. Trustee and Funding Group chair, Professor Jane Maxim said they were “absolutely delighted” at the response to the quiz, which was previously run in 2017 when it raised £42,500. Thanks to matched funding and the support of local sponsors Best of Suffolk and Pinney’s of Orford, all of the £44,000 raised will be used to upgrade flood defences.

One local business is encouraging the public to aim for 20:20 hearing in 2020 by holding an awareness event this January. The Hearing Care Centre, a family-run business with 27 centres across East Anglia, has organised a series of ‘Hearing Care Days’ across East Suffolk, which will see special events held in Wickham Market, Framlingham and Aldeburgh on Thursday 30th and Friday 31st January 2020. Their expert team of audiologists will be offering complimentary hearing assessments, expert advice and if required make personalised recommendations on solutions that could lead attendees on the path to better hearing. To find out full details or to book an appointment for this event, call The Hearing Care Centre on 01473 230330 or visit hearingcarecentre.co.uk/events

One of Suffolk’s leading bridal make-up artists and beauty therapists is celebrating 21 years in business. At the end of November 1998, Victoria Bradfield took the bold decision to go it alone and start her own business to become a freelance make-up artist and mobile beauty therapist. More than two decades on and she is celebrating her substantial business growth and long service in the sector, having delighted over 500 brides along the way with her make up artistry skills. www.victoriabradfield.co.uk Twenty-one teams, made up by members of staff at Glasswells, plus doctors and nurses from West Suffolk Hospital, met in the in-store Place to Eat restaurant to battle it out for the coveted title of Quiz Team Champions 2019. Now in its thirteenth year, the annual quiz has raised thousands of pounds for many different local and national charities, with this year’s funds being donated to the My WiSH charity, to provide festive decorations for the children’s Rainbow Ward. “The annual quiz night has become an important and much anticipated event in Glasswells calendar,” explained Paul Glasswell, Managing Director. “We are over the moon to have raised such a significant sum of money, which will certainly help to brighten up the Rainbow Ward for the children and their families over the Christmas period. I cannot thank our staff enough for their continued enthusiasm and generosity.” Amy Hatch, My WiSH Charity fundraising officer, said: “We are so grateful to Glasswells for raising such an incredible amount of money to support our wonderful Rainbow Children’s Ward. It really is very festive now, thanks to everyone’s support. More news can always be found at www.essentialsuffolk.com/content

Woodbridge School has appointed Ms Shona Norman as Head. Ms Norman’s appointment comes at the end of a comprehensive and thorough selection process that saw nearly 30 candidates from across the country and abroad apply for the role. Seckford Foundation Chair, Roger Finbow, said: “We are delighted with the outcome of this extensive selection process and our decision to invite Shona to lead our school. Experience, style, competency and cultural fit were critical aspects of our decision and Shona stood out as a clear leader with the right vision and values. Today, Woodbridge offers a rich and vibrant learning environment for students of four to 18 and we are excited to give Shona the opportunity to build on the great work she has done for the School over the last 17 years and lead the School on to an even brighter future.” Shona has been Woodbridge School’s Acting Head for the last six months and will officially assume the Head position on the 1st of January 2020.

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JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

What’s On JANUARY 1 – 16

JANUARY 8 – 18

Peter Pan Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds

Sherlock Holmes & The Warlock of Whitechapel New Wolsey Studio, Ipswich

Box Office: 01284 769505 theatreroyal.org

JANUARY 1 – 18 The Famous Four and a Half Go Wild in Thetford Forest Sir John Mills Theatre, Ipswich and Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge Box Office: 01473 211498 easternangles.co.uk

Julian Harries and Dick Mainwaring once again don the deerstalker, plus fours and travelling capes of Holmes and Watson and are joined by Common Ground regulars Joe Leat and Emily Bennett in this classic Christmas comedy thriller. Tickets: £13 Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

JANUARY 9 - 11

JANUARY 1 – FEBRUARY 1

The Cut, Halesworth Alice in Wonderland by Circle 67

Aladdin New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

These are Alice’s adventures, adapted from Lewis Carroll’s timeless children’s stories and magically brought to life in this new adaptation by Sue Trovell. Newcut.org

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

JANUARY 4 Farmers Markets Beccles Heliport 9am – 1pm Snape Maltings 9.30am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm

JANUARY 5 Ipswich Farmers' Market The Cornhill, 10am – 2pm Last Night of the Proms St Michael’s Church Centre, Martlesham, 7pm Gippeswyk Singers & Martlesham Brass present a fabulous evening of popular choral and brass band music culminating in a traditional Last Night of the Proms celebration with flag waving and audience participation. Conducted by Geoff Lavery and Adam Cable. Refreshments available. Supporting local charities. Tickets at the door. Entry: £5 www.gippeswyksingers.co.uk

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The multi award-winning son of blues legend Muddy Waters plays charismatic Chicago blues; his big, powerful voice conveys deep emotional resonance on the slow numbers and good old fashioned testosterone-laden strut on those classic shuffles. Mud’s first two albums, Son of the Seventh Son, and For Pops (A Tribute To Muddy Waters) won several blues awards and his most recent album, They Call Me Mud has a whole host of great reviews. Tickets: £20 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

JANUARY 15 Susie Dent: The Secret Lives of Words The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

JANUARY 11 All Aboard with Trianon Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 7.30pm Join Trianon on a journey to the Scottish Highlands and Islands, and then to Europe via a magical realm. Enjoy musical delights from Cats and Oliver! and there are plenty of trains. Tickets: £11 Box Office: 01473 433100 Farmers Markets Halesworth Produce Market, The Old Print Works 9am – 1pm Woodbridge Community Centre 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm

JANUARY 14 Mud Morganfield The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

The lexicographer, best-selling author and Queen of Dictionary Corner takes us on a journey into the curious, unexpected, and downright surreal origins of the words we use every day. Susie will reveal the adventures that lie hidden within such words as lasagne (involving a chamber pot) and bugbear (a terrorising monster), and explain such oddities as the silent ‘h’ in ghost. You can also hear Susie’s selection of the funniest moments from her 25 years on Countdown and 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown. Each evening will include some of Susie’s favourite words from the towns and regions she visits, and she’ll be asking the audience for theirs. Tickets: £23 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

WH AT’ S ON

JANUARY 16 - 18 The Sleeping Beauty Jerwood DanceHouse, Dance East, Ipswich Aurora is the beautiful heir to the throne of Woollycombe, but when her birthday arrives an evil fairy appears to follow through with a curse set upon her eighteen years before. With singing, dancing, zombies and even a partying rat, The Sleeping Beauty is a panto for the entire family! Tickets: £12 Box Office: 01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk

JANUARY 18 Farmers Markets Aldeburgh Church Hall 9am – 12 noon Beccles Heliport 9am – 1pm Long Melford Village Hall 10am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm Cold Hands, Warm Hearts featuring Suffolk Singers Woodbridge Community Hall, 7.30pm Come and join Families in Need (FIND) and Suffolk Singers for a spectacular charity concert raising funds for FIND, a truly inspirational charity offering a lifeline to

BIG winter

people in Ipswich and the surrounding area who are experiencing poverty and despair. Tickets: £15 (includes light buffet) Box Office: 01394 279907 www.suffolksingers.co.uk www.WeGotTickets.com Reason Porsche Open Day Unit 16/17, Stone Street, Crowfield, Suffolk, IP6 9SZ, 9am to 3pm Visit the new Porsche Specialist Service Centre in Crowfield, where you are welcome to pop in for a coffee, bacon roll and chat. If you have a 911, Cayenne, Cayman, Boxster, Macan, Panamera or any German manufactured car we have a fully trained Porsche Technician with up to date Porsche Diagnostics. Entry: free Information: 01473 845007 or service@reasonporsche.com www.reasonporsche.com

JANUARY 18 AND 19 Limelight Performers St Peters by the Waterfront

Ensemble! Join our cast (made up of over 35 highly talented local performers) as they present a mix of the best songs from all across musical theatre in full multi-part harmony. Featuring a wide range of shows including Dear Evan Hansen, Mamma Mia, The Sound of Music, Wicked, The Greatest Showman, Spring Awakening, Carousel and more – there’ll definitely be something for everyone! Stpetersbythewaterfront.com

JANUARY 21 – MARCH 17 Mini Mammoths Ipswich Museum Join our interactive sessions for young children and their parents, grandparents and carers. Explore the collections and galleries together through a mixture of play, stories, craft and science activities, all designed to encourage development, communication and curiosity about the world around us. We have added three repeat sessions, so that more families can book places. Tickets: £2.75 Box Office: 01473 433100

Limelight Performers are thrilled to be returning to St. Peter’s By The Waterfront for their biggest production yet – The Limelight

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JANUARY 24

JANUARY 26

Magnard Ensemble I Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh, 12pm

The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

Part of Friday Lunchtime Concerts Tickets: £4.50 – £9 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.snapemaltings.co.uk

Direct from London’s world-famous jazz club and combining world-class live jazz, narration and rare archive images and footage, The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars take to the stage to celebrate ‘The Ronnie Scott’s Soho Songbook’. Tickets: £23.50 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

JANUARY 25 Farmers Markets Snape 9.30am Woodbridge Community Centre 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm Barb Jungr: Bob, Brel & Me Britten Studio, Snape Maltings, 8pm See mini preview page 23 Tickets: £20 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.snapemaltings.co.uk

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com/ whats-on-in-suffolk

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Mayor’s Charity Burns Supper Council Chamber, Ipswich Town Hall, 7pm The Mayor of Ipswich Councillor Jan Parry is delighted to be hosting the Mayor’s Charity Burns Supper. Tickets: £37.50 Box Office: 01473 433100

Acce Chinese New Year Show 2020 Jerwood Dancehouse, Dance East, Ipswich, 6pm Following the last nine year’s success, the Anglo Chinese Cultural Exchange (ACCE) returns to perform another spectacular show in Dance East to celebrate the 10th annual Chinese New Year 2020. Tickets: £12 Box Office: 01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk Cello Recital – Jamal Aliyev (cello) and Maria Tarasewicz (piano) Constable Hall, East Bergholt, 4pm Jamal was born in Azerbaijan, studied at the Menuhin School and the Royal College of Music and made his Proms debut in 2017. His solo performances are wowing audiences in the UK, Europe and beyond. Maria has already gained an enviable international reputation as a duo partner and chamber musician. Programme: music by Beethoven, Rachmaninov, Popper, Tchaikovsky, Lutoslavsky and Franck. Entry: £15 Contact: 01206 298426 or email svamtickets@btinternet.com www.svam.org.uk

WH AT’ S ON

JANUARY 31 The 545 The Apex, Bury St Edmunds

Magnard Ensemble II Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh, 12pm

Farmers Markets Beccles Heliport 9am – 1pm Snape Maltings 9.30am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm

Wind quintet performs programmes including Tomasi, Klughardt, Butler & Knussen. Tickets: £4.50 – £9 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.snapemaltings.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2 Ipswich Farmers’ Market The Cornhill, 10am – 2pm

Enowate Dickson MBI Jerwood Dancehouse, Dance East, Ipswich, 7.30pm

FEBRUARY 4

Enowate uses popping and contemporary dance to express Dickson’s inner dialogue – as if he is a man speaking to his shadow. Tickets: £12 Box Office: 01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk

FEBRUARY 1 I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 7.30pm Band showcase featuring five of the area’s most exciting up-and-coming bands. With Connor Adams, Reno & Rome, False Hearts, Queen Dogs and Leon O’Leary. Tickets: £5 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

BBC Radio’s multi award-winning antidote to panel games returns to the stage in 2020 with its sell-out touring show. Join Tim Brooke-Taylor, Tony Hawks, Miles Jupp, Richard Osman and host Jack Dee for an unmissable evening of inspired nonsense. Colin Sell provides piano accompaniment. Box Office: 01473 433100

Catrin Finch And Cimarrón The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm Welsh harpist with Colombian joropo band Cimarrón. Catrin Finch is one of the world’s leading harp players, whose career has featured solo performances with the world’s top orchestras and collaborations with leading world music artists, including Senegalese kora player Seckou Keita, with whom she forms “one of the most popular world music acts of this decade” (Tim Cumming, Songlines). Tickets: £19 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

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FEBRUARY 4 – 13

FEBRUARY 6

Chamber Music Lab Masterclasses Peter Pears Recital Room, Snape Maltings

The Mountbattens New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 7.45pm

Emerging string quartets and piano trios come together for two weeks of coaching by some of the world’s most inspiring chamber musicians, Isabel Charisius, Owen Dalby, Bjørg Lewis, Geoff Nuttall and Alasdair Tait. Tickets: £3 – £6 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.snapemaltings.co.uk

From British high society to the South of France, from the battlefields of Burma to the Viceroy's House, The Mountbattens is a rich and filmic story of a powerful partnership, revealing the truth behind a carefully curated legend. Tickets: £24 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.snapemaltings.co.uk

FEBRUARY 5 FEBRUARY 8 Curator’s Introduction to Art Forms in Nature Ipswich Art Gallery, 11am Curator’s Introductions are bespoke tours of new exhibitions by the lead curator responsible for their creation, development and display. Discover more about the Museum’s rarely seen natural history illustrations which will be on display alongside photogravures of natural forms by early 20C German artist Karl Blossfeldt. Tickets: £6.60 Box Office: 01473 433100

Tasmin Little & Piers Lane The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

Farmers Markets Halesworth Produce Market, The Old Print Works 9am – 1pm Woodbridge Community Centre 9am –1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm

Tasmin Little announced that, after a long and exciting career, she has decided to pursue new directions from Summer 2020 and so this will be one of the last opportunities to hear Tasmin playing live. Tickets: £22 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com/ whats-on-in-suffolk

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WH AT’ S ON

Rise and Fall New Wolsey Studio, Ipswich, 11am & 1.30pm Come and explore an ecosystem of balloons: universes in miniature. In Rise And Fall you’ll meet all manner of balloons from small floating moons to vast bouncing orbs. Forever expanding and contracting, balloons are free to float, fly and sway. Hold your breath and go sailing away. Rise and Fall is a poetic and intriguing performance for young audiences about holding on and letting go. Tickets: £8 Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

FEBRUARY 10 Benny Goodman’s Carnegie Hall Concert The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm Pete Long’s All-Star Goodman Orchestra bring all the repertoire from the famous concert, including One O’Clock Jump, Sing, Sing, Sing, Big John Special and other fabulous Fletcher Henderson, Mel Powell and Eddie Sauter arrangements. Tickets: £23 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

FEBRUARY 12 – 13

FEBRUARY 15

The Levellers The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 8pm

Farmers Markets Aldeburgh Church Hall 9am – 12 noon Beccles Heliport 9am – 1pm Long Melford Village Hall 10am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm Roy G Hemmings The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 8pm

The Levellers are still going strong after 30 years in the game. They have long been, and still are, one of the best live bands around and they’re back in 2020 with a new studio album and an extensive tour taking in double nights at some of their favourite towns and cities. Over the years, Brighton folk-rock band Levellers have worn many masks; most selfmade, some imposed upon them. But while their status has evolved over the decades, the basic humanity underpinning their music has remained constant. Tickets: £28.50 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

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Motown & Philadelphia On Tour: the longest serving member of The Drifters brings classic hits from the likes of The O’Jays, Candi Staton, The Stylistics, The Four Tops, The Supremes, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, The Drifters and more. Tickets: £26.50 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk Jimeoin Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 7.30pm Superb world-class stand-up from the Irishman from Australia acclaimed worldwide as one of live comedy’s true masters as Jimeoin brings his brilliantly observed, everevolving and hilarious comedy to Ipswich Corn Exchange for one night only as part of his latest smash-hit tour. Tickets: £20.50 Box Office: 01473 433100

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JANU ARY & FE B RU ARY 2 0 2 0

WH AT’ S ON

FEBRUARY 16

FEBRUARY 20 – 22

FEBRUARY 23

Konya Kanneh-Mason and Braimah Kanneh-Mason Halesworth Cut

The Ballad of Maria Marten New Wolsey Theatre

The Seasons Britten Studio, Snape Maltings, 2pm

See mini preview page 25 Box Office: 01473 295900 wolseytheatre.co.uk

Mozart’s piano sonatas are intimate encounters with the composer at his own instrument and the perfectly made K311 sparkles with brilliance and clear textures. Tchaikovsky’s piano cycle The Seasons was commissioned for a publisher’s stunt of issuing one piece a month over the course of a year, but the composer could not stop himself from turning them into lyrical jewels. Tickets: £5 - £10 Box Office: 01728 687110 snapemaltings.co.uk

Tessa Fuchs Chamber Series 2020. Konya Kanneh-Mason is 19 years old and holds The Gilling Family Scholarship at The Royal Academy of Music, studying piano with Tessa Nicholson. She is winner of Nottingham Young Musician 2017, and joint winner of the Carlton MVC Music Makers Award 2018. Braimah Kanneh-Mason is an exciting and versatile young violinist. newcut.org

FEBRUARY 18 – 20 Animal Invasion Ipswich Museum The live animals are back! Find out more about a range of animals, how they adapt and survive in their environments, and how humans have an impact on their worlds. Tickets: £3.85 Box Office: 01473 433100 ipswichtheatres.co.uk

FEBRUARY 19 Kiefer Sutherland Plus Special Guests Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 7pm Actor and singer-songwriter Kiefer Sutherland is best known for playing the role of Jack Bauer on the hit TV show 24. He released his first album ‘Down in a Hole’ in 2016, with its follow up ‘Reckless and Me’ in April 2019. Tickets: £34 Box Office: 01473 433100 La Bohème Ipswich Regent See mini preview page 23 Box Office: 01473 433100 ipswichtheatres.co.uk

FEBRUARY 21 Cotton Club Exhibition Wickham Market School See mini preview page 25 cottonclubquilters.co.uk

FEBRUARY 22 Farmers Markets Snape Maltings 9.30am Woodbridge Community Centre 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm Tchaikovsky Piano Trio Britten Studio, Snape Maltings, 7.30pm The theme of friendship links Mozart’s elegant duo for violin and viola, composed to help out a friend in need, and Tchaikovsky’s epic Piano Trio written in memory of the great pianist Nikolai Rubinstein. Tickets: £7.50 - £15 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.snapemaltings.co.uk Ardal O’Hanlon: The Showing Off Must Go On Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 8pm Ardal O’Hanlon, star of TV shows such as Death in Paradise (BBC One), Father Ted (Channel 4) and My Hero (BBC One), continues to tour his acclaimed stand-up show worldwide. Because he loves it. And it’s a compulsion. And the world is a funny place. Tickets: £24 Box Office: 01473 433100

FEBRUARY 20 The Jive Aces Big Beat Revue The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm The Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalists explode onto the stage in their trademark yellow suits for an exciting mix of hot jive, swinging’ rhythm and blues and classic rock ’n’ roll. “The crazy energy of the Jive Aces can certainly whisk you away to a different era and tempt you to Jump, Jive and Wail out of happiness and joy!” The Student Newspaper, Edinburgh. Tickets: £21 Box Office: 01284 758000 theapex.co.uk

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Brendan Cole – Show Man Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 7.30pm Expect every style of ballroom and Latin dance from Brendan Cole and his handpicked championship dancers, performed to the music and songs of some of the greatest legends and contemporary artistes. Whether you love a cheeky Charleston or a sexy Salsa, with music from Beggin’ to Bublé, plus numbers from The Greatest Showman and La La Land – this show has it all. Tickets: £41.50 Box Office: 01473 433100

FEBRUARY 27 Milton Jones in Milton: Impossible Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 7.30pm Milton reveals the truth about being an international spy, before being given a disappointing new identity which forced him to appear on Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo. But this is also a love story with the twist, or even a really bad sprain. Tickets: £30.50 Box Office: 01473 433100

FEBRUARY 28 Ebonit Saxophone Quartet II Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh, 12pm Programmes to include Prokofiev & RimskyKorsakov. Tickets: £4.50 - £9 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.snapemaltings.co.uk

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com/ whats-on-in-suffolk We cannot guarantee inclusion in print but all suitable listings will be included online.

M IN I P R E V IE WS

LA BOHÈME Ipswich Regent Theatre 19 February Award-winning opera producer Ellen Kent brings one of the most romantic operas ever written, La Bohème, to the Ipswich Regent Theatre in February as part of her new tour. Set in the backstreets and attics of Bohemian Paris, this powerful and emotional opera tells the heart-breaking tale of the doomed, consumptive Mimi and her love for a penniless writer, Rodolfo.

BARB JUNGR

Puccini’s masterpiece, La Bohème, is based on Henri Murger’s novel Scenes De La Vie De Bohème. The sumptuous set is inspired by the art of the Bohemian period, particularly Chagall and Renoir. The set reflects the Bohemian art of the times and the authentic costumes will transport you immediately to Bohemian Paris. The production includes a brass band, snow effects and Musetta’s adorable dog will also make an entrance.

Snape Maltings 25 January Jazz and cabaret star Barn Jungr will be performing at an Ink Festival fundraiser at Snape Maltings this month showcasing her latest work. From her early days working in amongst the London comedy scene of the early 80s as a singer and musician alongside the likes of Alexei Sayle, Jo Brand and Julian Clary, to her position now as one of the greatest living interpreters of song, Barb Jungr has devoted her life to entertainment. Her new album, Bob, Brel and Me, a piece of work she considers the best she’s ever recorded, may also be her last with Barb declaring “I may not make another”. Mentioned in the same breath as Ella Fitzgerald and Nina Simone, Barb Jungr’s ability to make others’ songs her own has brought her rave reviews around the world. Comprising songs from Bob Dylan, to whose work she has been drawn throughout her career; Jacques Brel, with brand new translations by Robb Johnson revealing some lyrics that will have you ushering grandma from the room, and her own compositions, written in collaboration with Mike Lindup, Jonathan Cooper and Jamie Safir. Her own tracks are no less powerful, including the introspective Incurable Romantic and the forthcoming single, Rise and Shine, whose lyrics “Rise and Shine/the morning after wine”, offer a glimpse at Barb’s irresistible sense of mischief and true ‘up and at ‘em’ pizzazz. The track No-one Could Ever Wear your Shoes, has particular poignancy, an older track co-written with her muchmissed musical partner, Michael Parker. Though this album is a collection of love songs, this in no way limits its breadth of emotion, from punctured love to the love between friends to lust, loss and all points in between. INFORMATION snapemaltings.co.uk

The powerful and emotional La Bohème is the tragic tale of romance between seamstress Mimi and writer Rodolfo. After falling instantly in love, Rodolfo later leaves Mimi due to her flirtatious behaviour, though he is wracked with guilt since their life together has surely worsened Mimi’s delicate constitution. In true tragic opera fashion the pair reunite briefly at the end before Mimi dies. This classic story of Parisian love and loss features many famous arias including Your Tiny Hand is Frozen, They Call Me Mimi and Musetta’s Waltz. Ellen’s production of the extreme poverty in the backstreets and attics of Paris was inspired by reading George Orwell’s book Down and out in Paris. Elena Dee will share the role of Mimi with celebrated international soprano Alyona Kistenyova and Marina Tonina is taking the role of Musetta. The production also boasts a full orchestra and chorus. Opera fans can also see another of Ellen Kent’s productions in Ipswich on March 14 with the tragedy, Madama Butterfly featuring international soloists, full chorus and orchestra at The Regent. INFORMATION Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

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M IN I P R E V IE WS

THE BALLAD OF MARIA MARTEN New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich 20 – 22 February Beth Flintoff’s captivating drama The Ballad of Maria Marten, which toured previously in 2018 under the title ‘Polstead’ and following great audience and critical success, embarks on a spring tour in 2020. Hal Chambers, with Ivan Cutting, directs an all-female cast with Elizabeth Crarer returning as the eponymous role and Susanna Jennings as Lucy. The production starts its tour in Scarborough before its run at the New Wolsey Theatre and then goes on to Newcastle-under-Lyme. It retells Suffolk’s real-life murder mystery... Summer, 1827. In a red barn Maria Marten awaits her lover. A year later her body is found under the floor of the barn in a grain sack, barely identifiable, and the manhunt begins.

COTTON CLUB EXHIBITION Wickham Market School 21 – 23 February The Cotton Club was started in 1993 by a group of friends who met through patchwork and quilting classes and this year is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Its aim was simply to promote quilt making, inspire others by holding exhibitions, inviting well known quilters and artists to speak at meetings and to hold practical, hands on workshops.

Maria’s story sent shock waves throughout the country. The Red Barn Murder (as it became known) was national news, inspiring writers and filmmakers down the ages. The sort of gruesome tale that had all the hallmarks of a classic crime drama – a missing body, a country location, a disreputable squire and a village stuck in its age-old traditions.

Year on year the group grew to the point where it now has more than 60 members. Based at Bredfield Village Hall, the club meets monthly and holds workshops too. Its exhibitions are held biannually and give members the opportunity to show their very varied work from the strictly traditional to art quilts. Members work and shows have become so popular and well known that in 2018 the club raised £5000 for charity – shared between Riding for the Disabled and the Lighthouse project.

But in all this hysteria Maria’s own story gets lost. Until now. Hal Chambers and Beth Flintoff’s spine-tingling retelling rediscovers her story, bringing it back to vivid, urgent life. Writer Beth Flintoff commented “As soon as Ivan approached me to write the story of Maria Marten I was intrigued. I hadn’t heard about her murder but was fascinated to hear about not just the story itself, but how it has been told to us“.

With the next charity exhibition coming up at Wickham Market School from February 21-23 the club has ambitions to raise as much, if not more, but this time proceeds will be donated to the Blossom Appeal at Ipswich Hospital.

Producer Matthew Linley commented “‘Ever since I first saw Polstead in a tent on Debach airfield I knew that this was a show that needed to see a wider audience. It’s a thrilling true life tale which is as joyful as it is murderous! So, I’m delighted to be working with Eastern Angles and Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough to bring Polstead back to life as The Ballad of Maria Marten”.

The £2.5million appeal aims to provide a new centre that will bring all elements of breast care at Ipswich Hospital under one roof and provide an environment where patients can be imaged, biopsied where necessary, and see their clinician in one appointment without the need to get dressed and undressed several times. There will also be new dedicated clinics for men and young people.

INFORMATION Box Office: 01473 295900 wolseytheatre.co.uk

INFORMATION www.cottonclubquilters.co.uk

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JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

Looking for inspiration to get fit and maybe lose the festive ‘flab’? Like anything these days there is plenty of choice – you can sign up for a gym membership, employ a personal trainer or maybe start cycling or swimming. But perhaps the most accessible option is simply to lace up your trainers and head out for a jog. Essential Suffolk discovers just how easy it can be to take up running

Keep on Running

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ave you ever driven along the road and spied a runner on the pavement, enviously eyed what appears to be their effortless technique and secretly wished that you too could be a runner? It’s easy to get caught up in a selfdefeating “I can’t run” or “I’ve never been a runner” attitude but when 13 people got together in Bushy Park, Teddington back in 2004 and created the now global phenomenon that is Parkrun, little did they know that more than three million (and counting) people would follow in their steps over the next 15 years, taking part in the weekly free 5km Parkruns all over the world. And that momentum has been spreading through our local communities and nowhere more than in and around Ipswich where there is now an abundance of opportunities to take up running – whether you’re a complete novice or revitalising an old passion. But surely joining a running club is a step too far for a complete beginner? Not so says John Farthing, Chair of Rushmere Community Runners (RCR): “Our group formed in 2017 and is about providing friendly, supportive running for all abilities. We all have one thing in common –

we love running. It doesn’t matter whether you’re young, old, fast, slow or anywhere in between, we really do cater for absolutely everyone”. The rapid and successful growth of the club gave organisers much to consider, especially in ensuring that beginners got the very best instruction and support. So when sports coach and soft tissue therapist John Reynolds (of JRSTT) approached RCR with his brand new introduction to running programme – One2Run5k - they leapt at the chance. “I wanted to team up with Rushmere Community Runners because I was interested in the birth of the ‘community club’ over the ‘traditional’ run club. I feel as though the traditional format has had its day and the way that sport is now it’s about inclusion” explained John. “Joining a running club can be incredibly daunting. It shouldn’t just be about how fast you are; the local, community base is the way forward. At RCR I found a group of people that I really like and feel I can work with to give something back to my community. Their numbers speak for themselves and I’m very glad to be a part of it.”

So what is the new programme all about? “One2Run5k is a 13 week run programme that develops and builds a runner’s appreciation of the elements that are fundamental to both enjoying and understanding how to run efficiently” said John Reynolds. “This new course wraps essential topics such as posture, balance, biomechanics and form, breathing, stretching, self-myofascial release, core stability and, strength and conditioning around the actual running element of the course. Runners will develop their running capabilities over the 13 weeks to see them able to run for up to an hour by the end of the programme.” And it clearly works. Participant testimonials include this high praise “I thought the course was amazing it taught me how to run, the techniques to run such as breathing, warm-ups, cool downs. It really has been valuable, and every week was very engaging and interesting!” So what happens next? Keeping your motivation going once you’ve achieved your first goals can be a challenge. More than ever events are becoming less elite and ‰

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JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

completely accessible to runners of all abilities and this year the popular annual fitness festival, Fit East has teamed up with the organisers of Henham Park Festival of Running for its 2020 event. The Fit East Festival, held at Trinity Park in Ipswich, is expected to attract thousands of people. The event will feature live music, a colour run, delicious local food and drink vendors, as well as DJs playing late into the evening after the day’s activities have concluded. Last year more than 1,500 people went to Trinity Park for a day of fitness classes including Zumba, boxing, goat yoga and a variety of other heart-pumping activities for all abilities. Now in its fourth year, the event will give festival-goers the chance to run a specially designed and expertly decorated running course created by the team behind the successful Henham Park Festival of Running that took place in 2019 on the Latitude site near Southwold. Running distances will include a 5k breakfast run for early risers, chip-timed 5k and 10k races, and a 1k family fun run, which is free for all festival entrants and encourages children to take part in physical activity from a young age.

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The event is built around the core themes of inclusiveness, positivity and physical and mental health and therefore is open to anyone and everyone, whether they do regular physical activity or are totally inactive but would like to make a change to improve their health. Festival of Running Marketing Co-ordinator, Gareth Samuel said: “We’re really excited to be integrating with Fit East in this way to bring the people of Ipswich a massive fitness and health festival with the right messages of inclusivity, mental and physical health at its core. Everything from the course design and huge list of amazing activities, to the site decoration, the bars and music will make this an event not to be missed by anyone.” But Fit East isn’t the only opportunity on offer in 2020. Local runners and cyclists Greg Cooper and Stuart Weaver have set their sights high “to get as many people involved in running and cycling as possible” and to that end have created ROC Events

with ROC24 at Culford school and the Pier to Pier Cycle and Run events in 2019 and their most recent challenge at Foxhall Stadium where runners and cyclists took part over ‘ultra’ (more than marathon) distances. “Our next challenge will be the ROC24 event in Christchurch Park” explained Stuart. “It’s a 24 hour challenge but participants can walk, jog or run and can work in teams, pairs or as individuals so all abilities are welcome”. And ROC24 isn’t just about running as there’ll be lots of entertainment with music, DJ, commercial stands, food and drink and a friendly, family atmosphere. “We’ll be partnering with RCR too as the Club has offered to supply marshals but participants are welcome from all of the local clubs and organisations as well as individuals”. Greg added “We are really excited to be hosting this event with our charitable partners Age UK, Suffolk. Following the success of last year we have moved to the

iconic Christchurch Park in Ipswich. The event includes a family fun run on the Saturday afternoon so the whole family can participate and win a special ROC24 medal. It’ll have a true family and social feel with plenty to do in the race village and on the course to keep our participants interested”. So will 2020 be the year you bacome a runner? Get those trainers laced up and go! INFORMATION Find out more about Rushmere Community Runners and the One2Run5k programme by visiting www.rushmerecommunityrunners.co.uk Registration for Ipswich Festival of Running is open now and friends and family of runners can purchase half price Fit East entry tickets. Please visit www.ipswichrunningfestival.co.uk For more information about ROC visit www.runorcycleevents.com

EssentialSUFFOLK

Photograph: Tom Soper

A YEAR OF CELEBRATION Photograph: Rebecca Austin

At one time Suffolk was home to one of the largest churches in Europe and was a place of pilgrimage. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been 1000 years since the Abbey of St Edmund was founded and celebrations to mark the event will last throughout 2020

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AB B E Y 100 0

ccording to popular legend King Canute – the Viking warrior – tried to hold back the waves and command the tide to halt. This tale is purely apocryphal by the way but actually Suffolk owes him a debt of gratitude for founding the Abbey of St Edmund 1000 years ago. A year of celebrations is being coordinated by the Abbey 1000 Group, alongside the Abbey of St Edmund Heritage Partnership, with a programme of events leading up to the weekend of St Edmund’s Day on 20 November 2020. The first Patron Saint of England and King of East Anglia, Saint Edmund was enshrined in the Abbey consequently lending his name to the town, which was built around it. The shrine brought visits from across the UK and abroad including royalty as the Abbey became one of the most famous and wealthy pilgrimage locations in England. It was destroyed during the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539. Edmund’s bejewelled shrine was plundered but his body was missing. Its whereabouts is still a mystery to this day but it is thought he is buried somewhere in the Abbey’s grounds. The Abbey is also known for its important role in the Magna Carta story. A group of Barons met at the Abbey in 1214 and swore an oath to compel King John to accept the Charter of Liberties, a proclamation of Henry I. This act led directly to the Great Charter or Magna Carta, agreed at Runnymede on 15 June 1215. The people of Bury St Edmunds have celebrated this

link for hundreds of years with the town’s motto ‘Shrine of the King, Cradle of the Law’, which refers to the historic links with King Edmund and the Barons’ meeting. Today, the Abbey remains are extensive and include the complete 14th century Great Gate and Norman Tower, as well as the impressive ruins and altered west front of the immense church, St Mary’s Church and parts of St Edmundsbury Cathedral. They are surrounded by the beautiful Abbey Gardens, an award-winning 14 acre park, and visited by 1.3million people from all over the world every year.

Community projects include a mosaic at the Arc Shopping Centre with contributions from the public and a monthly changing sculpture on display in the crypt within the Abbey ruins, where the shrine of St Edmund would have stood. The Bury St Edmunds Festival in May will also be staging concerts to mark the anniversary. Commenting on the programme Andrew Speed, Chairman of the Abbey 1000 Group said; “2020 will be a year of celebrations! Cultural, musical, religious and civic functions will highlight the 1000 years of the Abbey’s foundation. The Abbey 1000 Group, working closely alongside the Cathedral and the Heritage Partnership, aims to offer a broad range of events from musical concerts to religious pageants culminating in a spectacular light show on St Edmund’s Day weekend.”

A highlight during the anniversary year will be the gathering and procession of 100 Benedictine monks and nuns in May. They will be joined not only by 400 others, from communities across Britain and possibly from abroad but also by Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury. Other special events include a pilgrimage from St Benet’s Abbey in Norfolk and Ely in Cambridgeshire and an exhibition of seven manuscripts from the Abbey Scriptorium, being reunited in their place of origin for the first time since 1539.

Local companies, schools and community groups are being challenged to stage their own events to raise ‘£1,000 for 1000’ with proceeds being donated to the anniversary year charities. These are St Nicholas Hospice Care, St Elizabeth Hospice and EACH (East Anglian Children’s Hospices).

Composer John Rutter will be writing a special Millennium anthem for the Abbey of St Edmund and the 73rd Aldeburgh Festival will open at St Edmundsbury Cathedral in June, as part of the anniversary celebrations. This will mark the first ever opening night performance at the Cathedral, as well as the first time that Aldeburgh Festival has opened outside of the Suffolk coastal area in over 50 years.

Rev Canon Matthew Vernon, from St Edmundsbury Cathedral and Chairman of the Abbey of St Edmund Heritage Partnership, said; “This is a historically significant year for the Abbey and Bury St Edmunds and we are looking forward to joining with other organisations in the town to celebrate through the wonderful events and activities we have planned. We encourage others to hold their own events to celebrate too!” ‰

Photograph: Shawn Pearce

EssentialSUFFOLK

JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

ABBEY 1000

Celebrations and Events FEBRUARY 1000 Years Mosaic Community Art Project at the Arc Shopping Centre The Arc Shopping Centre is inviting the public to help create a large community mosaic to celebrate the 1000th anniversary. People will be asked what they think should be featured in the mosaic and to bring along something to be added as well as create parts of the design. It will be displayed at the Arc from February to November with an unveiling of the finished artwork on St Edmund’s Day, Friday 20 November 2020.

APRIL Abbey of St Edmund Anniversary Tours Bury St Edmunds Town Guides will introduce four new tours when the season starts in April dedicated to the Abbey and St Edmund. They will explore the lives of the Abbots; the

legend of St Edmund; specific details of the Abbey and life during monastic times. Daily and special themed tours will continue until 31 October.

MAY Abbey 1000 Trail A specially created Abbey 1000 Trail around the town centre for 2020. Bury St Edmunds Festival The annual Bury St Edmunds Festival (15-24 May) will honour the 1000th anniversary with two special concerts: MAY 16 Bury Bach Choir The Bury Bach Choir will perform Handel’s most famous work, Messiah, at St Edmundsbury Cathedral accompanied by Norwich Baroque and soprano Fae Evelyn,

mezzo-soprano Valerie Reid, tenor Austin Gunn and bass Graeme Danby. One of the best-known choral works in western music, Messiah was first performed in April 1742, with a scriptural text complied by Charles Jennens from the King James Bible and the psalms included in the Book of Common Prayer. Jennens’ text is an extended reflection on Jesus as the Messiah, providing a fitting contribution to the Abbey 1000 celebrations, having been performed many times in the Cathedral. MAY 20 St Petersburg Symphony Orchestra After many years, St Petersburg Symphony Orchestra will be making a return visit to St Edmundsbury Cathedral playing a programme of Sibelius, Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev conducted by Ben Palmer, a former pupil of King Edward VI School in Bury St Edmunds.

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AB B E Y 100 0

Photograph: Rebecca Austin

Photograph: David Palmer

MAY 22 Pilgrimage from St Benet’s, Norfolk and Ely Twenty people will be making a walking pilgrimage from St Benet’s, Norfolk and Ely, Cambridgeshire to Bury St Edmunds arriving on Friday, 22 May. King Canute founded Benedictine monks at St Benet’s Abbey in 1019; Uvius, the first Abbot at the Abbey of St Edmund (1020-1044) came from St Benet’s accompanied by 20 monks, believed to be 13 from St Benet’s and seven from Ely. MAY 23 AND 24 Gathering of Benedictine monks and nuns in Cathedral and Abbey ruins One hundred Benedictine monks and nuns from communities across Britain and possibly from abroad, will gather in Bury St Edmunds for the first time in 500 years since the dissolution of the monasteries. They will be joined by 400 other people; Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury, will also be attending. They will join a procession into the ruins of the Abbey Church; there will also be talks and workshops in the Cathedral and Ecumenical Vespers with monastic chanting. MAY 23 TO JULY 17 Exhibition of Abbey Manuscripts in Cathedral Treasury Seven manuscripts from the Abbey Scriptorium are being reunited for the first time in their place of origin since 1539. Written and decorated by hand by monks in the Abbey, they will be displayed in the Cathedral Treasury. The manuscripts are on loan from Pembroke College, Cambridge where they were donated by William Smart (Portreeve of Ipswich) in 1599. MAY 30 Pilgrimages of Song in Suffolk A pilgrimage for all who enjoy walking and singing will start at Chevington Village Hall and make its way to St Edmundsbury Cathedral on Saturday, 30 May. A joint event

between Cantus Firmus Trust and the Cathedral, the walk is part of an ongoing series of Pilgrimages of Song in Suﬀolk. Beginning with a workshop to learn the music for the day, the pilgrims will walk from church to church singing a short service at each. They will follow the old Abbots’ Way route from Chevington to Bury through Ickworth Park and Horinger before picking up the Edmund Way ending with Compline at the Cathedral and a hot meal in Pilgrim’s Kitchen. MAY TO NOVEMBER Abbey 1000 Sculpture Exhibition A monthly changing display of sculptures will be on display between May and November in the crypt within the Abbey ruins, where the shrine of St Edmund would have stood. Schools and artists are being invited to create the artworks on a theme of the story of the Abbey and St Edmund.

JUNE Aldeburgh Festival Opening Night On June 12th the 73rd Aldeburgh Festival will open at St Edmundsbury Cathedral as part of the 1000th anniversary of the Abbey of St Edmund. This will mark the first ever opening night performance at the Cathedral, as well as the first time that Aldeburgh Festival has opened outside of the Suffolk coastal area in over 50 years.

JULY The Abbey of St Edmund: Artisan and Pilgrimage Exhibition – Moyse’s Hall Museum A new exhibition is being planned at Moyse’s Hall Museum, which will help tell the story of St Edmund and the Abbey. It is hoped that ‘The Abbey of St Edmund: Artisan and Pilgrimage’ will include original stained glass and new stained glass pilgrims’ badges.

There will also be touch screen displays and facial reconstructions from the past together with family workshops and master classes in medieval craft skills. JULY 11 Abbey 1000 Community Celebration Plans are underway for the Abbey 1000 Community Celebration in the Abbey Gardens for families and the wider community of West Suffolk, organised by West Suffolk Council in July. The event will celebrate the best of the area, while enabling people to learn more about the role and significance of the Abbey of St Edmund in the history of west Suffolk.

OCTOBER Noye’s Fludde A production of Benjamin Britten’s Noye’s Fludde will take place in the Cathedral on October 16 and 17. Working with local schools, it will include the story of the damming of Tayfen Brook in 1290 by one of the Abbots, which caused widespread flooding in Bury St Edmunds and a riot by the townspeople.

NOVEMBER Edmund Day Finale and Spectacle of Light Plans are in hand for a three-evening Spectacle of Light, Friday 20 to Sunday 22 November, with shows projecting images of illuminated manuscripts from the Abbey onto historic buildings plus a light trail through the Abbey ruins in partnership with West Suffolk College.

INFORMATION www.abbeyofstedmund1000.co.uk www.burystedmundstourguides.org

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JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

Sally Haird â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Suffolk Community Foundation volunteer

YOUR COUNTY NEEDS YOU Are you a champion of the community? Could you be the voice of your village, parish or town? If so Suffolk needs you. Anne Gould talks to Tim Holder, the Head of Public Affairs at Suffolk Community Foundation

Suffolk Dog Day

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C OM M UN I TY C H A MPI ONS

Community Champions meet up

“We have 480 parishes in Suffolk and the ideal would be to have someone to represent every parish...”

he internet, technology – do you love it or hate it? Do you feel it has, perhaps, stifled face to face communication, the fertilisation and dissemination of ideas, connection, building relationships because it has stopped people interacting and talking to each other? If so a new initiative supported by Suffolk Community Foundation in conjunction with ‘Team Suffolk’ partners could help get us talking again in a very real and positive way – to help the county move forward. Tim Holder, Head of Public Affairs at Suffolk Community Foundation explained that the idea is to develop a county wide movement of volunteer Community Champions to open up stronger communication channels within the grassroots of Suffolk. “We have 480 parishes in Suffolk and the ideal would be to have someone to represent every parish. It’s a plan that has been underway for a while but already more than 50 people have come forward and we showcased it at our annual meeting at the Apex at the end of last year. We don’t see that it will happen overnight – our initial goal is to have 200 champions and then let it go from there.” He explained that a Community Champion is an information gatherer and sharer of news and opportunities that could help the community where they live and Suffolk as a whole. “While email databases, newsletters,

websites and social media all play their part in sharing information, this initiative is about recruiting a Suffolk wide team of living, breathing people as indigenous voices and communicators for the community they represent.” The plan is to work together to create a twoway dialogue that shares information about the needs of the local area. “We will also champion positive ideas and projects that are flourishing at grassroots level and share news about them with other communities that could benefit. The sorts of things we would be aiming to share would let people know if there is a local project going on, if there is a grant available that could help a village, parish, charity or project etc. “We hope to get much stronger information into communities about advice and money and grants available to support local projects. We hope to make vulnerable people more aware of life-changing and even life-saving campaigns. We hope to bring people together more in celebrating community events like Suffolk Day. “And finally, with so many inspiring people stepping up to make a difference where they live, let’s make sure the right people are nominated for awards at a local and national level and that there is cross county support for positive occasions like Suffolk Day and Suffolk Dog Day. A Community Champion’s ‘patch’ might be a single village or a small

group of villages or an area of a town, and part of the role of a Community Champion will be to tell us what is going on in their area so we can help to support local needs and raise greater awareness of their local events and projects, whether it’s the village fete, a new lunch club or youth group. “Who could be a Community Champion? It could be someone on the parish council, maybe someone involved in a village church or someone who is involved in making things happen. This is a really nice project and a lot of people have been saying for a long time that something like this is really needed. It’s about connection and relationships.”

Could you be a Community Champion? Suffolk Comminuty Foundation is looking for people who are interested and passionate about their community and Suffolk as a whole. Are you an open-minded relationship builder and aware of local needs and those of other Suffolk people. If you have good connections to networks in your community and beyond and the realistic approach and practical skills to make things happen please get in touch. Contact rachel.sloane@suffolkcf.org.uk for more information.

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JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

James Wright

MILLENNIAL SAVERS – SAVINGS PLANS FOR YOUNG ADULTS James Wright, Independent Financial Adviser looks at the investment options available to students and young adults who want to save for their future. Savings accounts in a bank or building society Minimum investment is usually £1 but varies by provider and type of account. Interest rates vary but regular (monthly) savings plans usually give a higher rate of interest than one-off deposits. Interest is tax free if within your annual Personal Savings Allowance of £1,000 for basic rate taxpayers, £500 for higher rate taxpayers. If over these figures then taxed at 20%, 40% and 45% depending on your tax bracket. Lifetime ISAs (LISA) A savings product for first time buyers, or to save for later in life. Can only be opened by savers aged 18-40, who receive an addition £1 for every £4 contributed. Savings are free of Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax. Minimum investment is £1 for a Cash LISA, or £100 lump sum or £25 per month for an Investment LISA. Maximum saving £4,000 per year (with a further £1,000 added by the government). Interest rates vary according to the fund(s) selected. Can only be used to purchase your first property, or if you are aged 60 or over, otherwise there is a 25% penalty. A good option for first time buyers, but a pension should be considered for retirement funding. Cash ISAs Cash ISAs are free from Income Tax and are set up as either Instant Access or Fixed Term.

Independent Financial Adviser

Higher interest is available for Fixed Term as opposed to Instant Access. Minimum investment is £1, and interest is usually higher than a bank or building society account but they vary considerably. There may be withdrawal restrictions or penalties applying to Fixed Term Cash ISAs. £20,000 can be saved into each one per year (less any contributions to other ISAs). Basic Rate and Higher Rate tax payers have a Personal Savings Allowance for interest of £1,000 or £500 respectively.

Workplace Pensions Retirement may be a long way off for millennials, but the earlier a person starts saving into a pension the better since every employer is required to contribute to each employee’s pension, and the government will also boost the pension pot in the form of tax relief. If you have opted out of a workplace scheme you have effectively taken a pay cut as you’re unable to receive the employer contributions elsewhere.

Stock and Shares ISAs Available to all savers aged over 18 and free from Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax. Minimum investment is dependent on the terms of the ISA provider: typical monthly minimum investment is £25, one-off typically £100. Maximum investment is £20,000 per year (less any contributions to other ISAs). Rates of interest vary depending on attitude to risk and funds selected. Consider your timescale for investment. The shorter the term of investment the higher the risk is being taken.

Other considerations likely to affect millennials and young adults:

Ethical Investment Products Ethical investments incorporate the saver’s ethical, social and environmental values into the process. This area is also often referred to as Sustainable and Responsible Investment (SRI). Typically the investment will be placed into funds which take a responsible approach to environmental, social and governance issues, and which avoid investing in areas such as armaments, human rights abuse and environmental damage. Further independent advice is recommended. Premium Bonds (NS&I) The minimum investment is £25, and the maximum value of Bonds that can be bought each year is £25,000. No interest is earned, the value of the Bond remains static for as long as it is held. There is no tax due on any winnings. The odds of winning odds are 24,500 to 1 per £1 Premium Bond, and the Bonds are fully secured by the government.

Scrutton Bland Financial Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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Paying off your existing debts: If you have outstanding debts on, for example, credit cards, then you should concentrate on clearing those. The interest rate on credit card debt if you repay the monthly minimum is far higher than any interest on easy-access saving accounts. The only exception to this is student loans. Student loans: Although the general advice to young people is almost always to pay off their debts, in the case of student loans these function more as a graduate tax, with repayments based on how much the person is earning. You are able to pay off the debt early if you wish, but there is no incentive to do so. Child Benefit: Paid monthly to all parents from the birth of a child to when they become 16 (or 20 if they are in education or training). If either parent’s total taxable income before is over £50,000 then a tax charge known as the High Income Child Benefit Charge will apply. This also relates to adults if they have a child living with them who is not their own child. Before you commit to any investment product you are strongly advised to get advice from an independent financial adviser. The information above provides an overview of the products and services available to you and should not be used as a guide to investing. For more information please contact James on 0330 058 6559 or email james.wright@scruttonbland.co.uk.

H EA LT H

WINTER SNIFFS AND SNUFFLES Most of us feel lucky if we get through the winter without succumbing to flu, coughs, sore throats, or a cold. The cold weather can create sinus, ear and respiratory problems too. Taking care and staying warm whether at home or travelling, and looking after yourself especially well at this time of year is so important and if you should need specialist help, knowing where to find it Sinus Infection The common cold in winter often affects the sinuses and ears and generally leaves you feeling unwell. In many people, these problems usually resolve with simple treatments of analgesia and nasal decongestant. However, recurring sinus and ear infections do require further investigation. Sinus pain can be debilitating including facial pain and headaches.

So why do people suffer with sinus problems? “People tend to develop more nose and sinus symptoms during the winter because of the greater prevalence of viral infections. They cause inflammation and swelling of the lining of the nose, throat and sinuses,” explains Mr Salam, Consultant Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeon at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital. “This swelling blocks the drainage to the main sinuses, and patients start developing sinusitis rather than usual colds.” He adds: “When this happens repeatedly, some patients develop chronic sinusitis, which is an inflammation of the sinus lining lasting for several months, and is one of the most commonly diagnosed chronic illnesses. It is caused by infections as well as structural problems leading to blockages of the opening of a sinus, thus preventing draining. Common symptoms include facial pain, nasal congestion, and pressure/fullness over the forehead and face, difficulty breathing through the nose, and thick infected secretions in the nose and throat. Some patients may also experience tooth pain, loss of smell or taste, tiredness, a sore throat and bad breath. Medical therapies include steroidal sprays, antibiotics, oral steroids, and nasal douches.” Such medical therapies are the most frequently used treatments for chronic sinusitis. If these treatments fail, a surgical procedure called endoscopic sinus surgery may be needed. Mr Salam specialises in this type of surgery and explains, “Endoscopic sinus surgery involves removing tissues within the sinuses in order to open the blocked sinus passages and clear polyps disease”. For patients with limited sinus disease, especially frontal sinus, the Balloon Sinoplasty technique can be used which is less invasive than standard sinus surgery with quicker recovery.

cold or recurrent throat infection through the Eustachian tube which connects the back of the noses/throat with the middle ear. It is a common condition in young children and often causes earache, high fever, deafness and can end up with glue ears.” Mr Salam adds, “In severe cases, it can result in perforation of the ear drum with ear discharge. It can damage the structures in the middle ear. An Ear, Nose & Throat surgeon should investigate recurring ear infection if not resolved by medical treatment.” Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital’s experienced ENT Consultants will investigate and diagnose recurring earache, providing treatments using a method that’s right for you. They also specialise in paediatric ENT surgery.

Respiratory Infections and Asthma Respiratory infections and asthma attacks can typically rise during winter, with the common cold being the cause of asthma flare-ups or attacks. Older people and those with severe asthma who get the flu may be at risk of more serious complications like pneumonia. Exposure to cold dry air is a common asthma trigger as it causes airways to tighten and can quickly lead to severe symptoms. Keep warm if cold air triggers your asthma. Avoid contact with anyone who is unwell and control germs by washing your hands regularly. You can also ask your doctor about a flu vaccination. People with exercise-induced asthma and who participate in winter sports are especially susceptible. During physical activity, people breathe through their mouths, which allow cold, dry air to reach the lower airways and lungs without passing through the nose, triggering asthma symptoms. Winter also brings cold weather, which keeps you inside, where indoor irritants such as dust mites, pet allergens and smoke can trigger asthma symptoms. It is important to always consult your GP for advice on any symptoms initially and to discuss referral options. If you would like further information on how to book a private consultation with one of our Consultants, or to find out about our private GP service, get in touch on 01473 851960 or email ipswich.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com.

Ear Infection This can be caused by many factors and can affect either the outer ear or the middle ear. “The outer ear infections can be either bacterial or fungal. Patients complain of pain, itchy or discharging ears. Treatment usually involves cleaning the debris from the ear by suction under the microscope and the use of antibiotic/steroid or antifungal drops,” explains Mr Salam. “Middle ear infections can happen after a

MEET OUR EXPERTS AT A FREE EEVENT Book your place at our free event on 24th March 2020 at 7pm. Mr Salam and Mr Yung, Consultant ENT Surgeons, will be presenting on Blocked Noses & Ear Infections, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions and explore your options for private treatment. Spaces are limited, call 01473 851 960.

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A co-educational Independent school in Suffolk for ages 4-18

OPEN MORNING

Friday 24 April 2020 01394 615041 admissions@woodbridgeschool.org.uk www.woodbridgeschool.org.uk

E D U CAT IO N PRO FI LE | WO O D B RI DG E SC HO OL

A warm welcome to WOODBRIDGE SCHOOL We are so very pleased that Shona Norman, a teacher at Woodbridge for over 17 years, has been appointed to lead the School from January 2020. Ms Norman brings an experience, style, and level of competency which will take the school into an even brighter future

oodbridge School is an Independent co-educational day and boarding school in Suffolk for ages 4 -18, providing a wonderful mix of warmth and kindness coupled with focus and purpose. We are proud of our nurturing and inclusive community. The pastoral ethos is at the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart, and it is tangible in the relationships between pupil and teacher, and between the pupils themselves. It is the cornerstone of the Woodbridge education. We work with parents so that a child entering their first years at school in Reception will emerge from Sixth Form prepared and ready to face the challenges of the modern world. It is this strong foundation that we believe allows our pupils to go forward and flourish, not just in academic life, but also in the vast range of extra-curricular activities that are on offer at the school. At Woodbridge, an equal value is placed on activity both inside and outside the classroom. Children, who are secure and happy, well guided and supported by teachers, will feel confident to try new activities, to believe in their innate ability that they can succeed, and thrive as a result.

The results of a Woodbridge education speak for themselves. Our academic results are exceptional, with over half of all grades at GCSE at the top grade of 9 -7 in 2019, and at A level, almost 86 percent of our results were at grade C or above. Thanks to our outstanding university and careers support, our Year 13 leavers depart with confidence in their next steps; the vast majority receive the results they need for their first choice course at University, with Russell Group universities being the destination of choice for many. The sciences, politics and history were the most popular choices in 2019, with some choosing specialist conservatoires and academies for drama and music. Our music, art and drama are widely regarded as exceptional, our sports in the top 100 Independent Schools in the country. Drama performances take place 5 times a year at our own Seckford Theatre and the quality is exceptional, with performances at the Edinburgh Fringe. In the music department, pupils have performed stunning choral concerts at Snape Maltings, Ely Cathedral and Norwich Cathedral, as well

as a calendar of more local orchestral and choral concerts. Over 350 music lessons are given every week and we offer over 20 different groups, orchestras and ensembles for pupils of all abilities to join. Our art department has also gained a reputation for excellence and holds two departmental exhibitions every year. Pupils also have the opportunity to sell their own work. In sport, our cross country has a national reputation for excellence, our School being one of two chosen to represent the UK in the World Schools Cross Country Championship. Our traditional team sports are taught to an exceptional standard by staff which includes Olympians and former National and International players. The best way to experience Woodbridge is to come and see for your self. Our next Open Morning is 24 April 2020. We also have a Mini Activities event at Woodbridge School Prep for children aged 3-6 on 11 January from 10.30am. Visit www.woodbridgeschool.org.uk We look forward to meeting you.

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Essential SUFFOLK

always proud ~ to feature ~

LOCAL RETAILERS Mohair jumper £50 Tilley & Grace

wear it well

See the New Year in with casual comfort

Sweater with ruching sleeves (camel or soft blue) £69.95 Laura Jane Boutique

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Navy knit with stripe collar and cuffs £79.95 Laura Jane Boutique

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Lisa Necklace £22 Morton leather handbag £64 Tilley & Grace

Heavy jersey check casual trousers £69.95 Laura Jane Boutique

Blue knit poncho top (also available in grey) with button detail £109.95 Laura Jane Boutique

Chocolate longer length wrap £79.95 Laura Jane Boutique

Tuesday jumper (available in a range of colours) £54.99 Laura Jane Boutique

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JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

BRA-VO Beautiful lingerie will mean you don’t just look good but you feel fantastic too. These stunning styles are all from Sweet Dreams, Woodbridge

Marie Jo L’aventure Danny bra £78.90 full brief £36.90 Sweet Dreams

Empriente Norah bra £87.50 full brief £49.50 Sweet Dreams

Halo Lace red pear £39 brief £14 Sweet Dreams

Prima Donna Baboushka in jungle full cup bra £111, luxe string £69.90 Sweet Dreams

STOCKISTS Laura Jane Boutique 89/91 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 386686 Sweet Dreams 45a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 380306 www.sweetdreams-lingerie.co.uk Tilley & Grace 47 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge; 140 High Street, Aldeburgh; 33 High Street, Southwold; 2 High Street, Holt T: 01728 885598 www.tilleyandgrace.co.uk 42

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WI NE

ANCHORING LUNCHTIME WINES Alchemy Wines and The Anchor at Walberswick join forces for perfect pairings

by wine expert, Rob Chase

The lightly oaked Cuvée Décadente VVC Viognier/Vermentino/Chardonnay – with its citrus and honeyed notes – comfortably coped with the acidity of the dressing. It also enhanced an offering of steamed Cornish mussels with their saffron, aioli, tomato and tarragon embellishment.

azing out to sea, I realised how fortunate we are to have both the North Sea and The Anchor as reasonably near neighbours. The former for its dramatic vistas: the latter for its truly creative cooking, outstanding cellar and the fact that our unique seascape can be enjoyed in the warmth and comfort of its dining room, rather than having to linger anywhere near a wave.

This realisation dawned at the back end of October, when right-minded swimmers have stopped venturing beach-wards and instead head pub-wards for sustenance. And so it was that – on my continuing quest to match great food with individual and affordable wines – I washed up at The Anchor in Walberswick.

My first discovery was a highly-creative and individual menu – the brainchild of owners Mark and Sophie Dorber, realised in the kitchen by head chef Julian Lloyd and his team. Both Sophie and Julian are able to conjure up tantalising and mouth-wateringly good food, dictated primarily by what happens to be ‘out there’ and available on the day, rather than being restricted to their official menu. On my lunchtime visit, Julian had certainly veered off-piste with all sorts of delicious, unexpected ‘bites’ and I think this is probably one of The Anchor’s great strengths. With light bites, nibbles and starters there are a dozen options for sharing which – if you want to avoid missing out on any of their culinary gems – is undoubtedly the best way forward. In order to facilitate a sharing platter or two of my own, I was joined by a handful of other ‘sippers and nibblers’ including Alchemy Wines’ head honcho David Rowledge. Together, we whetted our collective whistles with a bottle of Sandpiper ‘Blanquette de Limoux’ Brut from the Pyrenean foothills, made from the fresh, appley Mauzac grape, with the 10% Chardonnay adding a creamy finish. Able to handle reasonably weighty food, it went equally well with a double-baked cheese soufflé and a flavour-packed mini seafood pancake. Chef Julian then proffered seared Shetland scallops with an inspired piquant sherry-vinegar dressing: a dish given additional oomph with the inclusion of garlic, red onion, saffron, paprika and even chorizo.

As did the extra-delicious big red Cuvée Décadente ‘GSM&C’ which I decided would be an interesting challenge – not only for the mussels and their Wangford-sourced leaf salad with pine nut, cumin and coriander dressing, but also for the local, seared woodpigeon, bacon and field mushroom creation that followed. The black fruit intensity and oak notes of the GSM&C (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Carignan – imagine Châteauneuf at a third of the price) proved the ideal accompaniment and paired equally brilliantly with the next ‘large bite’ of pheasant and partridge thigh confit on a bed of game-juice-infused pearl barley. A glass of Alchemy’s Mu: – a lively, grapey, sweet Muscat worthy of any chocolate dessert or blue cheese – rounded off our lunchtime extravaganza to perfection. My advice? Do as I did: take full advantage of The Anchor’s outstanding culinary offerings with your own mini-tasting menu, then fill your lungs with a bracing, post-prandial walk on the beach. David Rowledge and Alchemy Wines brought the idea to fruition and the wines to the table. These were all remarkably good value, matched the food beautifully and introduced an evocative flavour of the Languedoc into our early winter lunch at The Anchor – Main Street, Walberswick, Suffolk, IP18 6UA. www.anchoratwalberswick.com

Alchemy Wines Ltd, Unit 3, Beta Terrace Masterlord Business Park, Ipswich, IP3 9SX 01473 290244 | info@alchemywines.co.uk www.alchemywines.co.uk

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Sponsored by

Pub Walks with Darcy

www.christchurchvets.co.uk

New territory for Darcy as she discovers the Orwell estuary at Levington In March last year the news broke that fire had ripped through the thatched roof of the historic Ship Inn at Levington, just outside Ipswich. 50 firefighters from two counties fought the “significant blaze” and owners Adnams called the fire “devastating”. But in December 2019 the pub re-opened, under the new management of Deben Inns and Darcy couldn’t wait to investigate.

Research Station

Bridge Farm

Walnut Tree Farm LEVINGTON

Levington Hall

1 PH 2/6 Polly’s Cottage

Stratton Hall

Stratton Hall Wood

5 4 Marina

The newly refurbished pub has everything you would expect from Deben Inns – a relaxed, informal atmosphere, food served all day – every day, and of course a warm welcome for you and your four legged M companions. Yet perhaps the ultimate joy of this country pub is its location. Overlooking the Orwell estuary it’s just a short walk to the river path. The walking is absolutely stunning with plentiful bird watching opportunities and vast waterscapes with views to Felixstowe to enjoy. Our walking instructions start and finish at The Ship however once you’ve joined the river path you really can walk for as far as you’d like. We headed east towards Trimley, choosing to turn just before Levington marina however the path continues much further if you’re feeling energetic. Sturdy shoes are a must, our latest visit was on a bright sunny day in December however rain from the previous couple of days had left the path very muddy and quite tricky in places so take extra care in these conditions.

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the walk DISTANCE: Approx 3 miles TIME: 1 hour – depending on pace TERRAIN: Grassy field and river paths STOPS: The Ship, Levington OS MAP: Explorer 197 START POINT OS REFERENCE: 235 390

The newest inn to join the Deben Inns family is RE-OPENED and FULLY REFURBISHED A cosy, warm welcome awaits. Open all day, every day! BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

As always please keep your dog under close control and follow any advisory signs. For a printable version of this and more than 70 previous walks go to: www.essentialsuffolk.com/dog-walks where you will also find more pictures of each walk route. Always check the map before setting off. 1. Starting from The Ship Inn exit the car park and cross the road to the path opposite, directly beside the house. Follow the path and as it rounds the corner to the left, pass through the gate. 2. Follow the path down the field towards the river, you will see the cranes of Felixstowe docks in the distance ahead of you. 3. At the T-junction with the river bank turn left and follow the path around the little inlet. After a short distance you will reach a gate signed posted Levington Lagoon, continue along this path. 4. When you reach your preferred turning point retrace your steps along the river path. We chose to turn just before we rounded the corner to the marina if you’d like the 3 mile walk. Follow the path back but continue past the point where you joined from the field. Continue around the bend of the river bank (in the direction of Ipswich) until you reach the clearly marked foot path to your right. 5. Take the steps down to the board walk – you will see the church up ahead of you and is a good marker for where you’re heading back to. Follow the path back to the gate. 6. At the gate retrace your steps to the pub car park.

The Ship, Church Lane, Levington, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP10 0LQ 01473 659573 ship@debeninns.co.uk

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www.debeninns.co.uk

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JA NUARY & F EBRUA RY 202 0

The Maybush

Ufford Park

Kingfishers

The Maybush Inn sits on the banks of the Deben in Waldringfield. The busy riverside pub and restaurant affords panoramic views across the river and beyond. The Maybush has become famous for its excellent food offering with a wide range and varied menu including local game, meats and fresh seafood. Vegetarian options and children’s menu available. Food offers are available throughout the week. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week from 9am. See our website for details.

Open every day, The Park Restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere, local produce and a seasonally-changing menu. You can enjoy Sunday Lunch in both the restaurant and bar and this is priced accordingly. Afternoon Tea is served throughout the year and this is priced at just £19 per person. Looking for somewhere to hold your family party or a special occasion? We are able to help you plan a menu and can accommodate all party sizes. Open to all; families welcome.

Our bar, restaurant and terrace have been thoughtfully designed as a welcoming and stylish haven for relaxed indoor and outdoor dining. Fresh, local plates of food to cater for all, so if it’s a breakfast, Sunday lunch, a romantic evening or afternoon tea, you will find what you are looking for. We make all of our bread in house and keep our food miles to a minimum. Family friendly and dogs welcome in our bar area.

Open: 7 days a week 9am – 11pm Food served 9am – 9.30pm daily

Open: Monday to Sunday 6.30pm – 9.30pm. Sunday Lunch in The Park Restaurant served 12 noon – 4pm

Open: Bar open: Mon to Thurs from 7.30am, Fri to Sun from 7am. Food service: Mon to Weds 9am – 3pm, Thurs & Fri 9am – 9pm, Sat 7.30am – 9pm, Sun 7.30am – 5.30pm

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

Ufford Park, Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW

Swan Lane, Cretingham, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 7BA

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

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

01728 685275 info@kingfisherscretingham.co.uk www.kingfisherscretingham.co.uk

The Fox

The Coach & Horses

Butt & Oyster

Imagine a chocolate box style village pub, beaming with pinkness, beautiful tranquil gardens and flowers around the door. Add a loyal and friendly clientele and great food and you’ll wish you had discovered us sooner. Fine locally sourced food is offered for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week from 9am and this is complemented by an ever changing range of guest ales and wines. See our website for details of our menus.

The Coach & Horses located just outside of Woodbridge, has extremely good access to the A12 with ample parking. Originally a staging inn or coach house, it’s historical role is equally well served today providing great family food. We offer a great combination of quality, value and atmosphere that the Deben Inns are renowned for. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week from 9am. See our website for details of our menus.

Open: 7 days a week 9am – 11pm Food served 9am – 9.30pm daily

The Butt & Oyster is one of the best known public houses in Suffolk renowned for its good beer, good food and great views. As you eat watch the changing tides on traditional timeless shores. Understand an artist’s inspiration with Thames barges, swans and the river, enjoying the finest Suffolk ales whilst being tempted by the wonderful aromas which welcome you. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week from 9am. See our website for details of our menus.

The Fox, The Street, Newbourne, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4NY

The Coach & Horses, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1PD

Butt & Oyster, Pin Mill, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 1JW

01473 736307 fox@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

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

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

essentialsuffolk.com

Open: 7 days a week 9am – 11pm Food served 9am – 9.30pm daily

FO O D G A LL E RY

Sibton White Horse

Salthouse Harbour Hotel

Situated in the pretty Suffolk Village of Sibton, this beautiful 16th-century pub has a wealth of charm and an abundance of character. Enjoy delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere in the bar or restaurant areas. Recently awarded 2 AA Rosettes, the food at the Sibton White Horse is freshly prepared using the local fresh and seasonal ingredients from Suffolk producers. Take one of the many local walks and build an appetite for lunch – best to book a table just in case it’s busy.

Open every day for a relaxing Lunch, sumptuous Afternoon Tea or an intimate dinner overlooking the stunning harbour. Head Chef Luke Bailey, winner of the prestigious award of Suffolk Chef of the Year 2019, is passionate about creating delicious food using fresh, honest ingredients. Large selection of wines or enjoy a refreshing cocktail while you soak up the views across the idyllic waterfront. A beautiful place to meet up with friends, whatever time of year.

Open: Food served lunchtimes 12 – 2pm Wednesday to Saturday (2.30 on Sunday). Evenings 6.30 – 9pm Monday to Saturday, 7.00 – 8.30pm Sunday. Closed Monday and Tuesday lunchtimes.

Open: Every day from 12pm. Afternoon tea served daily from 1pm to 5pm.

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

Salthouse Harbour Hotel, Neptune Quay, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 1AX

The Artisan Smokehouse, Goose Barn, Back Road, Falkenham, Suffolk, IP10 0QR

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

01473 226789 reservations@salthouseharbour.co.uk www.salthouseharbour.co.uk

01394 448414 info@artisansmokehouse.co.uk www.artisansmokehouse.co.uk

Fynn Valley

The Randolph

The Fountain

In the countryside just outside Ipswich, Fynn Valley Café Terrace caters for weddings, celebrations, private parties, charity events, conferences and more. Delicious locally sourced breakfast, brunch, lunch or just coffee and cake. Picturesque views across our golf course. Open to all, non-members welcome. Large group Sunday lunches for family and friends to get together with no room booking fee. ‘Veganuary’ menu available throughout January.

Located in the heart of the peaceful village of Reydon, just a 15 minute stroll from Britain’s quintessential seaside town of Southwold; The Randolph provides the perfect base for exploring the heritage coast and offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Just three miles north of Ipswich in Tuddenham St Martin a warm welcome awaits at our informal bistro style restaurant. Enjoy the atmosphere of a 16th century country pub with great food, great service and great value. Full A La Carte menu plus set price menus available daily. Our ever changing ‘Specials’ can be found on our website. Covered heated patio and spacious beer garden. Now serving coffee, cakes and brunch from 9.30am to 2pm daily.

NEW! Week Day Warmer: Every Monday to Friday Lunch 12 noon – 2pm 2 courses and a drink* – £15 per person 3 courses and a drink* – £17.50 per person (*Soft drink, 125ml house wine or ½ pint draught beer. Menu options change weekly)

The Artisan Smokehouse Café & Deli

Set in the lovely village of Falkenham, near Felixstowe, with wonderful countryside views. Join us in our licensed café, where all the smoked foods are hand-made on site. Enjoy breakfast, coffee & cake, and light meals including smoked meat and fish platters, cheese boards, sandwiches and salads. While you’re here why not grab something to take home from our deli, which stocks a wide range of products, including our own award-winning smoked foods. Open: Thursday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm. Please see website for variations in opening. Food served all day – breakfast until 11.30am

Open: 11am – 11pm, 7 days a week. Food served 12pm – 2pm and 6.30pm – 9pm

Open: Monday to Friday: Brunch 9:30am – 2pm, Dinner 6pm – 9pm. Saturdays: Brunch 9:30am – 2pm, Dinner 6pm – 9.30pm. Sunday: Food service from 12 – 7pm

Fynn Valley, Witnesham, Ipswich Suffolk, IP6 9JA

The Randolph, 41 Wangford Road, Reydon, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6PZ

The Fountain, The Street, Tuddenham St. Martin, Suffolk, IP6 9BT

01473 785267 enquiries@fynnvalleyterrace.co.uk www.fynnvalleyterrace.co.uk

01502 723603 reception@therandolph.co.uk www.therandolph.co.uk

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

Open: 8am – 5pm every day Food served 8am – 3pm Please check our website for what’s on and events as opening and food service hours will vary.

EssentialSUFFOLK

JA NUARY & F EBRUA RY 202 0

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BRIGHT IDEAS Add atmosphere and warmth to your home with carefully selected lighting

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H O ME S & I N T ER IO RS

n the dark winter months the ‘welcoming lights of home’ are not just a metaphor. Choosing the right lighting for each room in your home will ensure that you feel comfortable and cosy regardless of what’s going on outside. When you’re shopping consider our three Essential tips: 1. Function – what is the purpose of the light, how will it be used and what sort of light will you need from it? For example should it light the whole room or one area? Will it be positioned beside a chair where you read? 2. Style – there are warm tones of brass, gold and copper in the 2020 trends as well as natural materials like bamboo. However when you make your choice think about how you might reach the light to clean it and also how will it reflect in the surfaces nearby. 3. Price – will you ‘buy once and buy well’ selecting a piece that will make a statement or will this be a lamp that moves with the times and is replaced in the next round of decorating? Feel inspired by these stunning styles from leading independent Suffolk retailers. This striking textured ceramic table lamp base in a bronze, silver or copper finish would be a statement in any room RRP £69.99 now £52.99 Harpers Furniture

Industrial yet contemporary this cage style matt black metal three drop pendant has antique brass accents RRP £149.99 now £112.99 Harpers Furniture

Black and brass metal twelve light sputnik pendant adds a contemporary twist on the industrial style. RRP £349.99 now £279.99 Harpers Furniture

EssentialSUFFOLK

JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

Add a hint of the Moroccan Souk with this hammered metal table lamp RRP £134.99 now £99.99 Harpers Furniture

Essential SUFFOLK

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essentialsuffolk.com

Beautiful matt antique brass tall table lamp reminiscent of a stylised bamboo cane in design with a contemporary twist RRP £129.99 now £99.99 Harpers Furniture

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H O ME S & I N T ER IO RS

An intricate wooden bead and metal detail electrified pendant recreates a Victorian style but with a kitsch twist RRP £189.99 now £149.99 Harpers Furniture

Bring some modernist style in to your home with the Alessio three drop electrified pendant RRP £99.99 now £79.99 Harpers Furniture

Add a bit of sparkle with this striking Eden Champagne metallic bottle lamp base with mosaic finish RRP £164.99 now £129.99 Harpers Furniture

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JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

Mikaro six light cluster marble effect pendant RRP £264 now £219.99 Glasswells

Shard ceiling light RRP £358.99 now £279.99 Glasswells

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Vibrant eight pendant ceiling light RRP £456 now £359.99 Glasswells

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H O ME S & I N T ER IO RS

Valha bar light RRP £144 now £114.99 Glasswells

Bathroom LED ceiling light RRP £174 now £138.99 Glasswells

STOCKISTS Glasswells Ranelagh Road, Ipswich or Newmarket Road Bury St Edmunds. T: 01473 253164 www.glasswells.co.uk Bamboo table lamp RRP £142.50 now £129.99, Bamboo floor lamp Complete £220 now £183.99 Glasswells

Harpers Furniture Star Lane, Ipswich. T: 01473 213858 www.harpersfurniyure.co.uk

oodbridge Interiors Ltd Supplying stylish kitchens & bathrooms

Corian • Silestone • Dekton • NEFF • Liebherr • Blanco

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2 A1

A kitchen & bathroom showroom located in Melton, Suffolk. Free parking.

A12 A12

A1 15 2

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D NR LTO ME

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JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

BOOKS VERSUS GOOGLE Want to know something? In the modern world we just look it up on Google, so what about books? Garden Designer Catharine Howard reviews The New Royal Horticultural Society Plant Encyclopedia

nce upon a time I filled out a coupon in a magazine and two men then turned up with a suitcase and sold the household a complete set of the Encyclopaedia Britannica. Combing through it was the way to accumulate knowledge. There were 24 volumes to choose from; all wordy and with pictures, mainly black and white.

Later on, as a garden designer, I used to heft gardening tomes to customer meetings, strips of paper marking relevant pages. That was in a pre ‘Post-It’ note, pre internet age. Then came easy searches on the web, Pinterest and all manner of ready access to the rarest of plants. So where does an encyclopaedia fit in now? The Royal Horticultural Society sent an email about their new one – Plants and Flowers: New Edition – 8000 plants. I ordered one to investigate its use in 2020, employing a two prong examination technique. First: could it help me with a new planting plan top heavy on shrubs? I wanted sizeable shrubs but nothing gloomy or Victorian in feel. My preliminary job is to make up a list of suitable plants. Those that make it onto said list then become the swatch from which I work. Scanning through, Corylopsis glabrescens and Abelia x grandiflora leapt out of the pages. Both are from the section of large shrubs, summer flowering, white flowers. Under large, winter and yellow I happened on the witch hazel collection to add to the burgeoning list.

essentialsuffolk.com

G ARD E NING

Top marks to the book for mentioning ultimate size of plants – often this info is buried and it is vital for working out how many for a scheme. Each shrub listed has a mini silhouette showing its habit – that is very useful too, as was leafing through pages with illustrations to glean ideas and jog the memory. Exam question two: would this book be a good present for my newly trained Landscape Architect son? Might it become his bible for garden matters? The introduction is mercifully short and well considered. Gardening lore and the choosing of plants had been boiled down into a nice glue. In fewer than 30 pages with plenty of pics we were guided through the necessary basics. Assessing site and climate, seasonal interest from plants, what suits what soil are all mentioned before the headlong gallop through different categories of plants. It is very useful that there are sub categories so that you will not muddle up trees and

hardy annuals. Included too are symbolic references to soil type and sun or shade requirement. I’ve already mentioned size and shape and colour. I’d have ditched the colour wheel in the introduction for a close look at how bad a plant looks in its worst season. The succinct explanations given would be an excellent jumping off place to start any garden planning or project. It might well take the new garden maker away from compulsive buying and into thinking of how to deal with what plants will actually work in a given site. Tucked in here and there are gardening chestnuts – making leaf mould and compost, how to plant bulbs in containers and know your way round different dahlias. So the really hard bitten enthusiast will find that the book grows with his enthusiasm. As I flipped through the shiny colour feast of pages, it was a marvel to think of the rationalising of a mighty filing system: how did the editorial committee decide that Daylilies (a mole in the industry tells me they

are coming back into fashion) deserved a double page spread? Carnations and pinks likewise? Dimly out of focus I can see numerous subcommittees fighting the corner for their favourite plant. I’m going to award my two different exam questions B and A respectively. This is a cracking good tome for a new starter. It is not suitable to carry around under the arm (it went on a trial customer visit this morning and we soon took refuge in a search engine). I haven’t yet mentioned the plant directory that makes up 30% of the book. It’s enough to say that it is the driest of martinis. No doubt this is the section where the real plant boffins take refuge.

INFORMATION Catharine Howard is a designer, gardener and plantswoman with many years of creating and renovating gardens. For a consultation or garden design contact her at: www.catharinehoward.co.uk

EssentialSUFFOLK

JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

AN T IQ U E S & AU C TI O NS

Geoffrey Barfoot

LET BYGONES BE BYGONES

Auction Centre Manager

on a low loader, such as farm tumbrels and gypsy wagons. Recently we sold an Antique brass and steel milk churn for £3,200 which we think might be a record for a churn! While in the same auction a 4 inch long apple corer carved from a mutton or ham bone by a Napoleonic prisoner of war sold for under £20. There is literally something for every budget.

At the time of writing it is a damp, murky December day as I look across the auction centre car park from my office at Campsea Ashe. It’s the time of year where we plan ahead for the next 12 months of sales and I am already wondering what the highlights will be from the near 60,000 lots that will come under the Hammer in 2020. The first specialist auction of the year is Domestic & Rural Bygones and Collectors vehicles on the 22nd February. These auctions are the most interesting and challenging sales that we hold and believe it or not are often gathered from the most unusual places, workshops, garages, sheds, barns, overgrown gardens, damp cellars and dusty attics. In the hallowed auction houses of Bond Street and King Street there may be upturned noses and a certain resistance to trudging about through such locations but we consider it a great privilege to see what lurks undiscovered and undisturbed after many generations, sometimes the owners are blissfully unaware of the treasures they have tucked away. What is a Bygone you may ask? Well our theory is simply anything old and interesting from a Bygone Era that had a practical use, where that to be in the kitchen, the garden, on the farm or in the workshop or office. That means a huge diversity of items from tools and gadgets that can be carried in the pocket to items that have to be delivered

So, who buys this myriad of items? Where does it end up? Well many things are sold to collectors and sometimes museums. Some items end up in themed restaurants, pubs and cafes, particularly enamel advertising signs which are very popular, we even have several themed wedding suppliers who come and buy from us. Some end up on foreign shores often bought by collectors via the phenomenon of internet bidding. We have in the last year sold to 50 different countries around the world from what is in reality a field in East Suffolk, amazing it doesn’t look quite so murky now! INFORMATION Next Auction: Rural Bygones, 22 February 2020 Clarke and Simpson Auctions, Campsea Ashe, Nr. Wickham Market, IP13 0PS 01728 746323 www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

Moving Home?

Move in with us REVELLS REMOVALS & STORAGE UK – EUROPE – WORLDWIDE Eastlands Industrial Estate, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4LL 01728 830849 | info@revells-removals.co.uk

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P R OPE RT Y

Essential

PROPERTY 58 59 61 62 63 65 76

Fenn Wright Jackson Stops Savills Clarke & Simpson Landex James Francis Homes Hopkins Homes

60 Ipswich

64 Leavenheath

66 Woodbridge

EssentialSUFFOLK

Selling the most desirable town houses, country homes & properties with character in Essex & Suffolk

fennwright.co.uk

Melton | Woodbridge office

Guide Price

£900,000

• Beautifully converted former water tower • Far reaching views towards the River Deben • A wealth of exposed original brick • Versatile accommodation over seven floors • Unique Victorian home • Off road parking • EPC – C

Woodbridge | Woodbridge office

Guide Price

£1,125,000

• Within walking distance of the town • Hand built kitchen by Ashford & Brooks • Ideal accommodation for a family • Characterful accommodation • Attractively landscaped mature garden • Integral double garage and parking • EPC – C

Trimley St Mary | Kesgrave office

Guide Price

£525,000

• Four/five bedroom detached period home • Two en-suite shower rooms • Easy reach of Felixstowe seafront • Open-plan kitchen/dining/living area • Flexible accommodation • Workshop, garage, parking • EPC – C

Boyton | Woodbridge office

Guide Price

£850,000

• In an area of outstanding natural beauty • Plot of approximately 20 acres • Equestrian facilities • Variety of outbuildings • Open fireplaces and vaulted ceilings • Wealth of Character • EPC – TBC

offers over

Felixstowe | Kesgrave office

£575,000

• Stunning sea views • Three bedroom apartment • En-suite to master bedroom • Balcony and bay window with views • Open plan living area • Allocated parking • EPC – B

Martlesham Heath | Kesgrave office

Guide Price

£535,000

• Superb three storey family home • Five bedrooms, two en-suites • Impressive accommodation • Easy access to A12/A14 • Ideally situated for local amenities • Garage and off road parking • EPC – D

Woodbridge 01394 333346 | signaturesuffolk@fennwright.co.uk | Kesgrave 01473 358400

CRANLEY GREEN

CAMPSEA ASHE

● 3 reception rooms ● 7 bedrooms ● Store buildings & workshop

● 2 bath/shower rooms ● Multipurpose workshop/store

● Grade II Listed manor house ● Requiring renovation ● Grounds of about 0.6 of an acre

● Enjoying a tucked away setting ● 3 reception rooms ● 4 bedrooms ● Mature gardens ● Cart lodge ranges ● About 1 acre

GUIDE £575,000

GUIDE £875,000

STRADBROKE

TATTINGSTONE

● 4 bathrooms ● Former coach house ● Large & mature garden

● 2 reception rooms ● Garden room ● 4 bedrooms ● 3 bathrooms

● Substantial village house ● 4 reception rooms ● 5 bedrooms ● Extending to about 0.75 of an acre ● No onward chain

● Occupying a stunning position overlooking Alton Water ● Part-walled garden ● Sought after village location

GUIDE £685,000

GUIDE £545,000

GRUNDISBURGH

LITTLE BEALINGS

● Barrel vaulted kitchen/dining room ● 5 bedrooms ● 4 bathrooms

● 2 reception rooms ● 5 bedrooms ● 2 bathrooms

● 3,500 sq ft barn conversion ● Stunning valley position ● Underfloor heated ● Cart lodge ● 4.5 acres

● Contemporary village house ● Well presented throughout

● Multi-purpose bedroom/games/studio ● Parking ● Garden

GUIDE £595,000

GUIDE £1,150,000

IPSWICH 01473 218218

Tim Dansie

Jonathan Penn

James Squirrell

15 Tower St, Ipswich IP1 3BE ipswich@jackson-stops.co.uk jackson-stops.co.uk

JA NUARY & F EBRUA RY 202 0

Cedars Facts Location: Ipswich Price: on application Agent: James Francis Homes

Outstanding Restoration The Cedars is a luxury development of two large town houses from a former young ladies finishing school. The building on Anglesea Road in Ipswich dates from 1863 and was originally designed by renowned architect Frederick Barnes who owned one of the largest practices in the town at the time. In the 1920s the building was bought by the Ipswich psychic Society where it was said that Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a frequent visitor. This hugely innovative development has created two stunning, luxury Victorian homes. At number one the James Francis team added a three storey extension

essentialsuffolk.com

matching the existing walls with reclaimed white Suffolk brick and have created a perfectly seamless match. At number two the ground floor has been extended to create a Victorian style orangery of around 430 square feet. There is also a lower ground floor extension of the same size beneath creating a basement of approximately 1100 square feet running below the entire house.

These glorious Victorian houses offer efficient, modern living blended with the charm and grandeur of their period. Smart home technology has been installed throughout both homes and includes control vis tablet for the heating, lighting and home security with the option of adding more automated functions such as music, blinds and curtains and more.

Within both properties many of the original features have been restored to their former glory including cornice and ceiling roses, bespoke panelling, dressers, skirting boards and door furniture.

Final dĂŠcor, kitchen and bathroom finishes will all be installed to the taste and requirements of the individual buyer. INFORMATION James Francis Homes 01473 670905

Selection of 2019 sold properties Sold

Sold

Savills Suffolk 01473 234 800

Sold

Eye

Hintlesham

Ipswich

A beautifully elegant Vicarage hidden away in the historic core of Eye with stunning gardens.

An early Victorian classic Old Rectory on the edge of the village with delightful views.

Handsome detached town house within easy reach of the town centre.

Guide £1.25 million

Guide £1.5 million

Guide £800,000

Sold

Aldeburgh

Shottisham

Immaculately presented house set in a highly sought after position.

Enchanting cottage set in stunning countryside, overlooking meadows.

Guide £1.15 million

SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR IN OUR NEW HOME

Guide £425,000

Sold

Blaxhall

Ipswich

Nr Stowmarket

Beautifully positioned period cottage close to the coast.

A stunning detached Victorian townhouse close to Christchurch Park.

Beautiful restored farmhouse, annexe & extensive buildings set in a tranquil countryside location.

Guide £400,000

Guide £900,000

Guide £1,150,000

Talk to us today Peter Ogilvie Director 01473 234816 pogilvie@savills.com

Tom Orford Director 01473 234831 torford@savills.com

savills.co.uk | Follow us on what can we do for you?

Monk Soham, Nr Framlingham £1,750,000

Little Bealings, Nr Woodbridge £795,000

A stunning, part thatched, Grade II listed, 6 en-suite bedroom farmhouse in a lovely rural setting with extensive outbuildings & grounds. Moated gardens, paddock & agricultural land extending, in all, to 28.7 acres (less land available if desired). Triple bay garage with annexe above oﬀering sitting room/ kitchen & en-suite bedroom. ‘Outdoor kitchen’, further garaging for 5 vehicles & oﬃce/gym. Ref: 6309

A contemporary 4 bedroom bungalow set in an elevated position within a mature plot of nearly an acre. Entrance hall, 23' reception hall, 22' sitting room, kitchen/dining room, garden room, study/bedroom 5 & utility room. Master bedroom with en-suite shower room, 3 further bedrooms & shower room. Double garage & generous driveway. Established mature landscaped gardens & grounds extending to approximately 0.9 acres. EPC = D Ref: 6315

Stradbroke £685,000

Badingham, Nr Framlingham £575,000

A handsome & substantial Grade II listed house now requiring general modernisation, situated within mature gardens. Hallway, drawing room, sitting room, dining room, breakfast room, study, kitchen, wet room, cloakroom & rear hall. 5 bedrooms, dressing room, 3 bathrooms, sewing room & second floor attic rooms. Gardens extending, in all, to three quarters of an acre & oﬀering a former coach house & other useful outbuildings of approximately 1,500 square feet. Ref: 6322

A charming cottage with lovely rural views, situated in an idyllic location along a private track, standing in grounds of approaching 4 acres. Dining room, sitting room, study, kitchen, utility room, downstairs bathroom. 3 first floor bedrooms & first floor bathroom. Gardens abutting the River Alde. Stables stores, field shelter, manege & land extending, in total, to 3.9 acres. EPC = F Ref: 6318

Witnesham, Nr Ipswich £485,000

Darsham, Nr Heritage Coast £425,000

Plot 7 is a high specification 3 bedroom mews-style house with double cart lodge that is currently being converted from a range of Victorian model farm buildings, located at The Fairways at Fynn Valley; a unique & exclusive development of 9 converted homes, set in the beautiful countryside of Suﬀolk, just north of the county town of Ipswich. EPC = TBC Ref: 5678/7

Plot 11, The Oulton, is a stunning & spacious, brand new, 2 bedroom detached bungalow built to a high & energy eﬃcient specification, with a delightful large garden, garage & parking, situated within Cheyney Green, a new development of just twenty contemporary 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes in the charming village of Darsham, and being built by the well regarded local housebuilder, Sunbury Homes. EPC = TBC Ref: 5906/11

Framlingham £395,000

Leiston, Nr Heritage Coast £220,000

A well-located detached modern house on the popular Fulchers Field development. Sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, study, cloakroom & utility room. Master bedroom with en-suite shower room, 3 further double bedrooms & bathroom. Garden & double garage. EPC = C Ref: 6300

An immaculate & deceptively spacious ground floor apartment with private south facing garden, close to the amenities of Leiston & a short drive from the Heritage Coast. Communal hall, entrance lobby, sitting/dining room, kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, further double bedroom & family shower room. Private south facing terrace to rear & communal shared gardens. Allocated parking. NO FORWARD CHAIN. EPC = C Ref: 6305

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

T: 01728 724200

www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

NO ORDINARY HOME

NO ORDINARY LOCATION

Superior quality new homes in Suffolk. Find us in What eld, Ufford & Raydon.

www.landex.co.uk or call us 01473 230800

Award winning house builder

JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

Thomsons Farm Facts Location: Leavenheath Price: ÂŁ1,750,000 Agent: Savills

Rural Retreat Thomsons Farm is delightfully positioned five bedroomed property off a quiet country lane and surrounded by stunning countryside. Enjoying a truly magical setting amid the picturesque countryside of the Dedham Vale, a Designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (ANOB), Thomsons Farm is a rarely available opportunity for complete escapism. The house stands in 14 acres of undulating gardens and meadows bordered by thick natural hedgerows and mature trees. It was subject to a complete renovation project by an award-winning Cambridge architect about 25 years ago. The brick barn which stands to the side of the house has also been fully renovated and offers versatile use including ancillary

essentialsuffolk.com

accommodation with the house. During the renovation the house was extended to include a stylish bowed stair tower with the same curves reflected in the design of the interior accommodation. The farmhouse includes three reception rooms, conservatory, a kitchen/breakfast room, utility. Upstairs there are five bedrooms. The house is light-filled with attractive rooms displaying features including open fireplaces, some exposed timbers and lofted ceilings in the bedrooms and modern bathroom fittings. The kitchen is also comprehensively fitted with double doors out to the gardens and also folding doors opening into the sitting room and conservatory giving a superb

open plan layout. Outside is a superb vegetable garden to the rear of the barn and delightful gardens including a walled garden immediately around the house with an extensive variety of espaliered fruit trees. There are stunning far-reaching views from the house over the rolling countryside and across to Stoke by Nayland with the church tower in the background. Beyond the gardens are post and railed chestnut fenced paddocks, wooded areas, an orchard and on the other side of the bridle path a further meadow of about four acres.

INFORMATION Savills 01473 234800

No 1& 2 Cedar House Well Appointed Victorian Grandeur Two beautifully appointed homes, sympathetically restored by James Francis Homes, in a prime location close to Ipswich school and Christchurch park. Prices on application

James Francis Bespoke Finishes James Francis will tailor your home to your own personal tastes and requirements. Our Bespoke finishing service includes: • • • • • • • • •

Handmade Kitchens Bespoke Bathrooms/en-suites All Flooring types Bespoke bedroom furniture Smart home upgrades Home cinema & games rooms Decor and lighting Automated blinds and curtains Summerhouses and Garden rooms

Some features of these two beautiful Homes include: • • • • • • • • •

Grand original and bespoke oak staircases Large orangery (approx. 40sqm) and lower ground floor apartment Original working fire places and many original Victorian features New handmade hardwood double-glazed box sash windows throughout both homes Latest Loxone smart home technology Cast Iron Radiators and antique Brass door furniture Refurbished and oiled Victorian or oak floorboards in all rooms 5-7 double bedrooms and 3-5 reception rooms arranged over 4 floors Well established grounds accessed via gated entrances, large double garaging, and parking for many cars

Contact Details Office: 01473 670905 Out of hours: 07775 788530 information@james-francis.co.uk

www.james-francis.co.uk

JA NUARY & F EB RU A RY 2 020

The Shrubbery Facts Location: Woodbridge Price: ÂŁ800,000 Agent: Fenn Wright

Woodbridge Family Home The Shrubbery is a distinctive four bedroomed property in an elevated, landmark position within walking distance of Woodbridge town centre. Believed to have been built in 1910 by Reade of Aldeburgh, with part timbered and red brick elevations, the house has a distinctive appearance reminiscent of the Edwardian era. This property provides sensibly planned and thoughtfully modernised accommodation on two floors approached by a wide covered porch outside the front door. The generous entrance hall leads to the sitting room, with a fireplace and French doors leading out beneath the first floor balcony to the garden. Downstairs thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a study, with angled bay windows and views on three sides.

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The kitchen/dining room, at the centre of the house is fitted with gloss white cabinets and has an attractively tiled floor. The family room, as it adjoins the wet room, could be used as a ground floor bedroom if required. Upstairs accommodation comprises the main bedroom, with built in cupboards and an en-suite, a further bedroom with access to a balcony, with views across Ipswich Road to the River Deben in the distance. There is also a large bedroom to the rear and a smaller room at the front each served by the family bathroom. The rooms at the front of the house enjoy views over the garden, Nottcutts and the rooftops beyond to the Sutton bank of the

River Deben. Entrance to the property is via automated gates opening onto a gravel drive, which leads past the front of the house to a parking and turning area. The house is well screened from Ipswich Road by a thick laurel hedge. The garden which is mainly laid to lawn surrounds the house and features shaped dwarf conifers bordering the drive. Paved patios are found on either side of the property, which is enclosed by hedging and timber fences.

INFORMATION Fenn Wright 01394 333346

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Essential FACES

The Amber Ball Fynn Valley Terrace hosted the sparkling Amber Ball. The event was held to raise funds for Ipswich and East Suffolk Samaritans, Ipswich Night Shelter and Ipswich Soup Kitchen. Guests enjoyed a delicious three course meal and danced to local band ‘Frisky’. Thanks to the generous support of guests and sponsors, more than £1000 was presented to each charity.

Pat & Elie Ishac, Judith & Richard Cattermole, Karen Shelley, Lee & Jane Claydon, Mark Shelley

Maureen & Peter Gerber

Anthony, Rosemary & Kevin Holley

Teresa & George McLellan 68

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Carole Booth, Rosemary Holley

Andrew & Sarah Swallow

Nikki & Peter Shepherd, Claire Piper, Steve Flory

Sarah Norman, Anne Reeder, Kay Salmon

Mackie Ryan, Annabelle Ryan

Essential FACES

Art For Cure at Ipswich Building Society The Woodbridge branch of Ipswich Building Society is hosting an art exhibition in support of Art for Cure. The charity hopes to reach the ÂŁ1million raised with its efforts throughout 2020 and Ipswich Building Society is also helping through a special fund raising account which rewards the charity as well as investors.

Julie Paul, Chloe Brown, Jo Leah

Jeremy Scowsill, Nick Crocker

Judy Mattin, Holly Turner, Stella Highnett

Richard Rackham, Caro Burberry

Belinda Gray, Nathan Wade

Theronda Hoffman, Sarah Baddon Price

Sara Morgan, Sarah Stephens, Julia Scowsill

Annette Mason-Gordon, Chloe Brown

Janice Holland, Karen Gregg

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Essential FACES

Fundraising Ball for Great Ormond Street Hospital The Hangar at Milsoms sparkled extra bright for the ‘In the Stars Ball’ where over 300 guests enjoyed a fabulous evening raising funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH). Organised by Danielle Tucker in memory of her beautiful baby girl Eva, for GOSH where Eva received amazing care over the seven months of her life. An incredible £22,000 was raised from the ball. Sponsors: Lambert Construction

Will Sambrook, Caroline Pennington, Katie Sambrook, Julian Pennington

Danielle Tucker, Rachel Watson

Jane & Steve Curzon

Neil Sweeney, Emily Nunn, Tiffany Sweeney, Mitchell Nunn 70

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Paul Cotterell, Vanessa Bell, Nick Brown, Sophie Cotterell

Nick & Nicola Storey

Edward & Clare Burgess, Mel & Warwick Dunnett

Essential FACES

Rendall & Wright Award winning interior designers Rendall & Wright celebrated their recent move to a new studio at Layham, near Hadleigh, with a drinks party just before Christmas. Guests enjoyed fizz and delicious canapes from The Food Station.

Lindsey Rendall, Helen Wright, Rachel Morley

Ian & Diana Simpson

Sophie Collins, Andrew & Anita Cotterell

Mark Gardiner, George Cubitt, Scott Grimwood

Verity & Chris Pipe

Vicky & Guy Ormes

Barry & Lesley Hitchcock

Beverley Collins, Roland Cheeseman

Juliet Wormington, Emma Bennett, Dominic Carter, Karen Fairweather, Julianna Brown

Terence & Ann Lilley

EssentialSUFFOLK

Essential Directory CARE SERVICES

Celebrating Suffolk life & landscape

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HOMES & INTERIORS

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Enduringly beautiful windows and doors Notcutts Garden Centre, Ipswich Road Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4AF. 01394 386666

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LEISURE

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JANU ARY & FE B RU ARY 2 0 2 0

M Y S U FF OL K

My Suffolk Rev. Canon Sally Fogden MBE was a member of the first group of women to be ordained in the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich in 1994. She is founder and chair of the Suffolk branch of the Farming Community Network, the driving force behind the Addington Fund. She is also founder of the Rural Coffee Caravan and was one of the first recipients of the Suffolk Medal

How did you come to live in Suffolk? Suffolk became our home in 1974. My husband Tim’s job brought us over here from Herefordshire, so it was all change for our two children, Chris and Mary and me. However we moved from one small village to another and found the lovely people of Suffolk warm and welcoming and surprisingly soon we were very much part of the local community. We have come to love Suffolk not only for all it has to offer and the gentle beauty of the countryside but for the people who live here and make this county special. What was your reaction to receiving the Suffolk Medal? It was a huge honour and an amazing surprise to be chosen as one of the first three people to receive this medal. “It can’t be true” was my first thought but my husband checked the letter and it was! I feel that it was given for being a representative of the charities with which I work and so I see it as their medal as well as mine. I was very honoured to receive it on a lovely summer morning from our Lord Lt, Clare, Countess of Euston and to be surrounded by so many friends and family. Do you have any hobbies? Riding is top of the list, despite verging on 80 I still have a little horse and a friend for her and hacking out on the lovely Euston Estate or round the lanes is so good as well as the daily care of these lovely generous animals. My husband and I both enjoy walking and most country things as well as gardening and visiting such places as Exmoor, the Lake

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District or the Cotswolds as well as all the special places where you can walk in Suffolk.

we had set up in Suffolk just before Swine Fever hit, to be closely followed by Foot and Mouth disease. We were busy supporting those hit by these scores and it was from there that The Addington Fund arose (named for the man whose idea it was but who was too sick to take on the work involved). So a group of us set it up and worked it until it became a national charity when Foot and Mouth disease struck the country. The Rural Coffee Caravan was an idea that I had to try to do something to combat rural isolation, and typical of Suffolk, a group of people got right behind it. Fifteen years later, we have three vehicles out with a team led by our CEO Ann Osborn and we work across the county. From this we have also set up Golden Age Fairs, Meet Up Mondays and now More Than A Shop. We know we only scratch the surface but we meet a need and are delighted to do so, we meet such wonderful people.

Tell us about your ministry and work with the church? I came into ministry before women were allowed to be priests. I felt that this was something I was being called to do and others agreed. So initially I became a Lay Reader, a ministry that offers so much to parishes. Later I trained to become a Deaconess (I don’t think we have them now) and worked as a non-stipendiary minister fitting it in with family and a part time job, as so many do in so many of our parishes and without whom the church would be a poorer place. With the children grown up the then Bishop, John Waine, suggested that full time ministry might be a good thing and so I was appointed, with the full support of the parishes I am glad to say, as Deaconess in what was later to become the Blackbourne Team Ministry working with Canon Philip Oliver. What a privilege it is to work in rural parishes and to be accepted as part of so many village communities. Later, after much debate women were able first to be ordained deacon and later still in 1994 a group of us were ordained priest in an amazing ceremony in our Cathedral. The work in the parishes went on, but as a priest I was able to do so much more for those I served.

If you had to choose one picture of Suffolk what would it be? That’s a tricky one but I think the Stubbs picture of mares and foals under an oak at Euston has to say it all.

Which charities do you support? I have been doing Riding For the Disabled since my time as Physiotherapist at Riverwalk School but in rural ministry I became involved in The Farming Community Network which

Where would I take newcomers? I would just take them out with one of our Rural Caravans and they would see it all and then to Felixstowe to see the Docks for contrast.

Do you like to eat out? Eating out, well we are rather home birds but the Fox at Honington is always friendly and such good value.

ROGER GLADWELL LANDSCAPE & DESIGN T 01728 638372

M 07785966221

www.rogergladwell.co.uk

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