Bury Edition December by Bright Publishing

The quality lifestyle magazine for Bury St Edmunds

FREE MAGAZINE Issue 10

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DECEMBER 2013

Inside this issue...

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CULTURE 25/11/13 18:12:35

Creating the heart of your home Greyfriars Road, Moreton Hall, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP32 7DX

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ÂŁ1000 worth of FREE Neff appliances on all orders before the New Year*

kitchens, made in Germany

Beautifully crafted handmade kitchens *terms & conditions apply

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CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2013 Welcome elcome

71 7 • FIVE THINGS TO DO Our must-have tickets for this month... 8-9 • NIGHTLIFE From club nights and comedy to live music, we’ve got the low-down on afterhours fun this month 11 • NEW YEAR’S EVE IDEAS We discover THE places to head to this New Year’s Eve, from sophisticated soirées to outrageous parties 13-18 • ARTS & CULTURE Soak up some culture this month at some edifying local events and exhibitions 21 • FAMILY Ideas for what to do with the family throughout December 22-23 • LISTINGS A comprehensive guide to events in Bury and the surrounding areas this month 24 • COMMUNITY NEWS What’s been happening in your local community lately 27 • LATE-NIGHT SHOPPING It’s a month full of late-night shopping and we shortlist the go-to places for gifts 29 • INDIE OF THE MONTH Find out more about one of the longestestablished retail stores in Bury 31 • FOOD COLUMN Alex Rushmer lets us in on the joys of Scandinavian Christmas treats 32-33 • RECIPES A scrumptious recipe inspired by Alex’s Swedish heritage

34 • DRINKS Graze Kitchen & Bar’s Nick Armitage has gone retro with this recipe for an English Christmas classic 36-37 • FIVE OF THE BEST We have sourced the tastiest places that you can get your Sunday roast in and around Bury 38-41 • FOOD NEWS A round-up of all the culinary events in Bury and beyond this month 47-50 • INTERIORS Wow your guests this Christmas with our guide to fabulous festive home styling 52-53 • GIFT GUIDE We hunt down the best gifts from Bury’s independent shops and boutiques 55-58 • FASHION The editor rounds up her top style picks for guys and gals 61 • BEAUTY NEWS The latest updates from the Bury beauty scene

Hello and welcome to our jam-packed Christmas issue! We’ve had so much fun putting this one together, from visiting some of Bury’s loveliest shops to scout out pressies for our gift guide (which I’m delighted to say features products exclusively from local, independent retailers) to finding out about all of the great festive events taking place around town this month. If you fancy adding a twist to your Christmas dinner this year, check out our resident foodie Alex’s recipe on page 32. He’s been exploring his Swedish roots, with delicious results! If that makes you hungry, I recommend taking a look at our bumper food news section too, which has details of three exciting new openings in town, as well as our round-up of the five top roast dinners in and around Bury. Once Christmas is done and dusted, you’ll be needing to sort your plans for New Year’s Eve – and whether you fancy a decadent meal, some live music, or something a little more risqué – turn to page 11 to see what’s happening. Enjoy the issue, have a very merry Christmas and see you next year!

NICOLA FOLEY, EDITOR

EDITORIAL

CONTRIBUTORS

Editor Nicola Foley nicolafoley@bright-publishing.com 01223 499459

Alex Rushmer, Charlotte Griffiths, Daisy Dickinson, Carole Baker, Alex Wylie, Angelina Villa-Clarke, Sian Townsend, Charlotte Phillips, Nick Armitage, Sue Baker

62-63 • BEAUTY It’s party season and our beauty experts show you how to create some of the hottest looks

Features Editor Jennifer Shelton jennifershelton@bright-publishing.com 01223 499463

65 • WELLNESS The Self Centre’s Carole Baker answers your wellbeing questions

Sub editors Lisa Clatworthy, Hannah Bealey & Siobhan Godwood

Editorial Assistant Megan Croft megancroft@bright-publishing.com 01223 499466

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Designer Emily Stowe 01223 499450 emilystowe@bright-publishing.com Designer Nicole Henson 01223 499450 nicolehenson@bright-publishing.com

ADVERTISING

67-69 • MOTORING Sue Baker gives us the low-down on the latest models

Senior sales executive Tim Sloane timsloane@bright-publishing.com 01223 499458

71-72 • PETS Local experts advise on how to care for those furry members of the family

Andy Brogden & Matt Pluck 01223 499450

PUBLISHING DIRECTORS

www.bright-publishing.com

BURY EDITION MAGAZINE • Bright Publishing Ltd, Bright House, 82 High Street, Sawston, Cambridgeshire CB22 3HJ 01223 499450, www.buryedition.co.uk • All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of the publishers. • Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Bury Edition or Bright Publishing Ltd, which do not accept any liability for loss or damage. • Every eﬀort has been made to ensure all information is correct. • Bury Edition is a free publication that is distributed in Bury St Edmunds and the surrounding area

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5 THINGS TO DO

thingsthistomonth do Lavenham Street Fair

The ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet to come will be taking over the historic market town of Lavenham on 6, 7 and 8 December as the town is transformed into a Dickensian diorama. Wrap up warm and come along to this outdoor extravaganza featuring over 40 stalls lining the streets, the marketplace and Guildhall, selling everything from handmade gifts to food and drink. There will be prizes for best fancy dress (6 December) and best-dressed private home and shop window too. There will also be a vintage fairground complete with carousel, not forgetting Father Christmas himself. The Christmas lights switch on will kick off the festivities at 6pm on the Friday when shops will also be open late until 8pm. www.discoverlavenham.co.uk

See some live music This month is bookended by tributes to two great bands, starting with From The Jam on 4 December. The Jam bassist Bruce Foxton and his band will be pounding out some of The Jam’s biggest hits from their heyday, in celebration of the 35th anniversary of the album All Mod Cons. “The energy in rehearsals is great and we’re really looking forward to getting back on the road!” says Foxton. They’re at The Apex from 8pm, tickets £20. On 28 December, The Fillers pay tribute to one of the biggest bands of today, The Killers, offering a chance to sing your heart out to Mr Brightside. They’re supported by Coldplace (we can guess who they’re covering). 7.40pm; £12 adv, £14 door. www.theapex.co.uk

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New vintage shop opens Pay a visit to Bury’s new vintage shop, Huxster: an expertly curated collection of timeless and gorgeous vintage clothing and accessories, and the latest addition to Bury’s ever-evolving retail landscape. Located on Hatter Street, this delightful shop is owned and run by young entrepreneur and fashion enthusiast Danielle Grey, who customises some of the pieces herself, ensuring there are some truly one-off items to be found. There’s a beautiful range of dresses and gowns too, perfect for making sure no one else ends up in your outfit at the Christmas party… Search for ‘Charlie Huxster’ on Twitter.

Fat Cat Comedy Club The three-man improvisation comedy act, WitTank, bowls into Bury this month as part of the Fat Cat Comedy Club, held at The Apex. The fringe favourites and BBC Three stars have played to packed houses in Edinburgh every year, and are known for their superbly crafted sketches – and rather natty dress sense. Your compère for the night is standup comedian, writer and actor Andre Vincent, currently enjoying success on the London circuit. He’s looking forward to trying out his act on a lucky Bury audience. The evening takes place on 8 December. Bar opens at 7pm, show starts at 8pm; admission £12. www.fatcatcomedyclub.com

Elveden at Christmas Spend a festive day at Elveden Estate where there’ll be lots of activities each weekend in the run-up to Christmas Day. Visit Father Christmas in his grotto, take a train ride on the Elveden Express (new for 2013), pick up some local produce and meet the donkeys. Then, on 14 December, the Elveden Choir will lead a round of carols (2-3pm), followed by the Thetford Voices Choir on 21 December (12.45-2pm). www.elveden.com

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BSEAODS gala concert

Magic of Motown Celebrate the soulful grooves and legendary artists of one of the greatest record labels of them all as The Apex steps back in time for a non-stop musical Motown extravaganza. Straight from America, this all-new production promises to have crowds dancing in the aisles as its talented cast pay homage to all-time classics like Stop In The Name of Love, Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours, My Guy and many more from the likes of the Jackson 5,

Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and Lionel Richie. In fact, this dazzling show, which boasts slick choreography, glamorous costumes aplenty and spectacular musicianship, features no fewer than 36 massive back-to-back Motown hits. It’s so authentic it will have you believing that you’re right back in golden era ‘Motor Town’, swinging with the coolest cats around. 12 December, 8pm, £22.50. www.theapex.co.uk

Incredibly, the Bury St Edmunds Amateur Operatic Society (BSEAODS) has been entertaining the town for 110 years. With the hundreds of performances that the society has put on over the decades, it has certainly racked up a pretty sizeable back catalogue of songs from across a varied range of genres, from jazz and operetta to West End classics. In true theatre style, BSEAODS is going to finish off its anniversary year with a glittering gala concert at the Apex from 19-20 December (7.30pm, tickets £15 or £8 for children under 12). A speciallycurated collection of the society’s absolute favourite songs will be performed by its members in celebration of its impressive history. As it is the season to be jolly, after all, they will be performing some iconic Christmas songs too. www.theapex.co.uk

Joe Brown You might remember rock veteran and legendary guitarist Joe Brown from his early career, which saw him headlining UK tours that were supported by none other than The Beatles. Or maybe you discovered his music in more recent years through his critically acclaimed performance at Glastonbury, or saw him on TV’s Later... with Jools Holland?

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Whatever your experience, rock lovers are in for a real treat as Joe is playing at the Apex on 11 December (7.30pm). In his set, he’ll perform tracks from his incredible career that spans more than five decades, covering a range of rock genres. Tickets are £25 (£23 for concessions and discounts can be arranged for group bookings). www.theapex.co.uk

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NIGHTLIFE

Hit The Gym Not your usual cover band, rap, hip hop and rock remixers Inverse Oreo have gained quite a following locally. Expect a night of the unexpected when they play The Gym on 6 December, mashing up different genres and eras to explosive effect. The Gym puts on live music nights every Friday, and the rest of December’s line-up looks equally promising, with visits from rock and indie band Regency Gentlemen (13 December) and quirky covers band Good Looking Ugly (20 December). Crowd-pleasers Lick & A Promise

A Blue, Blue Note Christmas

round things off on 27 December. All are free and run from 10.30pm till 1am. www.thegymsportsbar.co.uk

Steeleye Span What do award-winning author Terry Pratchett and folk rock band Steeleye Span have in common? Well, rather a lot actually, as it turns out that a mutual appreciation has led to a collaboration between Sir Terry and the band – the result of which is a brand new album for 2013. Pratchett’s fantastical novel

Hunter Club Over at the Hunter Club they’re getting into the festive spirit early with a huge Christmas party that features four mighty local bands. Taking place on Saturday 7 December, the night kicks off at 7.30pm and will include an appearance from Rats As Big As Dogs, who’ll be launching their brand new EP, Stupid Suits You. They will be joined by bluesy trio Horse Party, indie-dance-punk troupe Keys and surfgarage duo King Blood for what’s sure to be a night of great tunes and great fun. £5/£4 student. A percentage of door profits will be donated to Love Music Hate Racism. www.hunterclub.org.uk

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Wintersmith was the inspiration behind the album: ancient rituals, magic and secret folk dances, it’s easy to see how this joint project has proved to be quite complementary. Steeleye Span is one of the most memorable folk bands to have enjoyed mainstream success, having had a string of albums and singles enter the top 40 in the UK charts. The band has been active since the 1970s and is now back on tour, playing their new album, as well as some of their older known hits. They will be performing at the Apex on 10 December (8pm, £22/£20 con). www.theapex.co.uk

If you fancy something a little bit different to mainstream Decembertime music, then Rebop is a band that you need to be listening out for. A sextet of talented jazz musicians, this group will transport you back to the mid 1940s for some bebop standards from jazz luminaries including Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie. You can see Rebop at the Hunter Club on 20 December (doors 7.30pm, £10). www.headhunterslive.org

Winter Beer Festival Over at local fave The One Bull, you can still catch the tail end of their Winter Beer Festival. It’s the third year that this brilliant boozer has hosted this event, which is timed to coincide with the Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre, and runs until 1 December. As well as a huge array of more than 50 real ales from across East Anglia to sample (including several of the pub’s very own Brewshed beers), there will be a selection of cask ciders. There’s live music on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at the end of November too, plus loads of tasty grub, including a hog roast and home-made pies. The pub will be open 12pm-11pm every day. www.theonebull.co.uk

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NEW YEAR'S EVE

NEW YEAR’S EVE GUIDE

This New Year’s Eve you’re spoilt for choice in Bury. Food, drinks, dancing, or even something a bit more daring... LP

THE GYM SPORTS BAR The popular sports bar is open until 3am on New Year’s Eve, with the resident DJ spinning tunes to get the party going. Entry is free, though there will be a collection for St Nicholas Hospice on the door. www.thegymsportsbar.co.uk

This Bury club and restaurant is bringing sexy back for its New Year’s Eve extravaganza. LP are inviting you to indulge your inner extrovert at their Bondage Ball, featuring ‘themed drinks’ and a performance from the Suicide Girls. So, if you fancy something a little more daring, LP is the place to be! Dress code is sexy, tickets £7 (£9 door). www.lp-bar.co.uk

SO BAR

RAVENWOOD HALL

Make a sophisticated night of it at Ravenwood Hall, the cosy yet elegant hotel and restaurant in Rougham, which is holding a Black Tie Ball. Arrive at 7.30pm for champagne and canapés before a gourmet six-course dinner in their pavilion. Then take to the dance floor and welcome in 2014 with fireworks on the lawn. £96.50 or £76.50 to eat in the restaurant. www.ravenwoodhall.co.uk

WINGSPAN AT THE ANGEL HOTEL If you’d rather buck the trend this New Year’s Eve and opt for a sophisticated, civilised drink away from the crowds, in one of Bury’s more characterful bars, we’ve got just the ticket for you. Wingspan, the subterranean, vintage-inspired bar at The Angel Hotel, is fashioned out of the secret tunnels that run under much of the town, and sports a wonderful mix of modern and retro, aviation-inspired décor. It will be open for cocktails, and the restaurant too, so slip away and celebrate in style. www.theangel.co.uk

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It’s free entry at So Bar for New Year’s Eve, where you’ll be entertained with live music by Cody Pennington. Spend the last day of the year sipping cocktails in their snazzy bar (shotgun the Moroccan lounge at the back…) and see in the new year in style. Open til 1.30am. www.codypennington.com

THE BUSHEL

The welcoming pub in St John’s Street is laying on a party for New Year’s Eve, promising a great atmosphere, live music, food and plenty of bubbles. Cosy up on one of their leather sofas with a glass of fizz, or dance the night away at the disco until the wee small hours. There’ll be a DJ playing all your favourite party tunes, and the bar will stay open til 1am. Search ‘The Bushel BSE’ on Facebook for more information.

THE GRANGE

The country house hotel and restaurant is hosting a stylish James Bond-themed night for New Year’s Eve, with a casino, disco and dinner. Arrive in style for 6pm, when a glamorous red carpet will lead you inside. Then, sit down to a sumptuous eight-course meal, including hickorysmoked duck breast, cod in Parma ham, lamb with a minted crust and a raspberry and vodka sorbet. Not to mention a brie and quince terrine and coffee and petit fours to finish (a vegetarian menu is available). After that delectable feast, try your luck at the casino and dance the night away until 1.30am. Dress code is black tie and cocktail dresses. Tickets are £74.95 per person, or take advantage of their package deal and stay over for £260, including meal, entertainment, a double room and breakfast the next morning. www.burystedmundshotel.com

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ARTS & CULTURE

We explore the arts and culture scene in Bury St Edmunds, showcasing some of the many exciting exhibitions and projects taking place around the area, as well as highlighting the local artists and events to look out for

Sleeping Beauty Admittedly, the best way to enjoy a performance from the internationally acclaimed Bolshoi Ballet company would be to travel all the way to Moscow. But as that would involve a pricey plane ticket, a lengthy fight and no doubt a dose of jet lag, we’re happy to settle for the next best thing. The Abbeygate Picturehouse is screening two live performances (22 and 24 December, 12pm, see website for prices) of Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty from the Bolshoi theatre itself, bringing the Russian ballet to you.

A modern choreographed interpretation of the classic fairy tale, the ballet tells the story of an extremely handsome prince as he battles to awaken the beautiful Princess Aurora from a deep slumber after she was cursed by an evil fairy. So if Russia seems a little far to travel to, why not head into Bury town centre and enjoy world-class ballet right on your doorstep? www.picturehouses.co.uk

Smiths Row at Christmas There’s still time to catch the lovely Smiths Row at Christmas exhibition, which runs until 11 January. The team at the gallery have been hunting high and low to unearth an inspirational selection of fabulous British arts and crafts; from quirky illustrations to fine furniture, unique accessories and beautiful handmade jewellery, it’s well worth a look for a pressie or two this festive season. See online for their opening times. www.smithsrow.org

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ARTS & CULTURE

BAY TREE THEATRE NIGHT On 3 December, The Bay Tree Café on St Johns Street is holding another of its comedy theatre nights, together with a two-course dinner of lamb or vegetable tagine and a choice of delicious desserts. Paul Richards will be presenting a festive show, Some Christmas Plays, which sees him searching for happiness and trying to forget his disastrous year. He’s joined by an awkward Santa, a highly

disappointed fairy and some truly terrible magic… Doors open at 7pm and tickets are £15 (£8 for the play only), available at the counter in advance. Suitable for all ages. www.thebaytreebury.co.uk

CHRISTMAS CRAFTS There are lots of creative Christmas workshops going on in and around Bury to satisfy all of your festive crafty urges this month. Over at Elveden Estate, join in with a Christmas Floristry Decoration Workshop (4 December, £19, 9.45am12pm) where you will work with a local florist to create a Christmas garland or a table decoration to impress friends and family with. Fancy something sweeter? The Chocolate Truffle Workshop will be held on 3 and 11 December (9.45am12pm, £25). As these treats are being made in advance of Christmas day and are freezable, they will make a brilliant handmade gift for that person who is always nigh-on impossible to buy for – who doesn’t like chocolate? Instead of buying an off the shelf Christmas wreath, why not try your hand at making one this year and create a unique wreath, handmade by you. Decorative artist Trudi Edmunds will be at Blackthorpe Barn on 4, 11 and 18 December (10am-1pm, £30) to teach you how to make a rustic Christmas wreath using holly, pine springs and pine cones that have been foraged from the estate

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itself. To make it extra special, Trudi encourages you to bring along ribbon, beads, silk flowers, or anything else that you like, to incorporate into your wreath so it’s truly bespoke. Then, join forces with your friends and rescue your homes from identikit mantelpieces by booking into the Betty Makes’ Lino Block Printmaking Workshop on 8 December in Newmarket (11am-3pm, £28). Here, over tea, cake and a natter, you’ll learn how to make your own lino cut (equipment provided) to print your own handmade, truly individual cards and gift tags. Lunch will be served, too. And if you can’t make it to this date, they can organise a private workshop for four or more people. www.bettymakes.co.uk

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ARTS & CULTURE

Blackthorpe Barn Nestled within Rougham Estate, just outside Bury St Edmunds, the historic Blackthorpe Barn hosts arts and crafts events throughout the year, but their Christmas event is the biggest and best of them all. Running until 22 December, the event will see half of the impressive medieval barn transformed into a bustling country Christmas marketplace featuring beautiful Nordic decorations, handmade gifts, candles and other rustic and fairtrade ornaments for sale. The other half meanwhile will showcase the creative talent of some of our country’s finest crafts people each weekend. With over 60 exhibitors in total, there’s a fantastic diversity to explore and plenty of chances to pick up some Christmas presents, from elegant decorative glassware

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to ceramics, handmade jewellery, accessories and clothing, sculptures and lots more. When you need refuelling, pop along to the Christmas Café, where you can enjoy hot drinks and home-made refreshments including mince pies, cakes, soups and mulled wine. If the kids are coming along for the trip, be sure to check out Blackthorpe’s famous outdoor Santa’s Grotto, and you can even pick up that all-important Christmas tree, or perhaps some mistletoe, holly or a handmade wreath, from the renowned Rougham Estate Christmas trees. “We just love Christmastime,” says George Agnew, owner of Blackthorpe Barn and Rougham Estate. “Transforming the barn into a Christmas haven in the form of

our Country Christmas Shop ready for 1 November is hard work but it is something we have done for 22 years and enjoy every minute. Indeed the fabulous feedback we receive from visitors every year makes all the hard work worthwhile. “We are also lucky enough to bring together highly talented British crafts people over the weekends on the run-up to Christmas and with 60 stalls, it really is worth a visit. The barn is perfect for those just wanting to pop in to pick up some decorations or for families who can really make a day of it by visiting the crafts, Christmas shop, Santa’s grotto, have a bite to eat and pick up a fabulous tree. We are sure you will love every second too.” www.blackthorpebarn.com

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ARTS & CULTURE

M R James Ghost Stories Moyse’s Hall becomes the atmospheric setting for a two-night run of ghost stories this month. On 8 and 10 of December, the enigmatic Victorian Gentleman returns to the museum with two readings from M R James’ spinechilling anthology of ghost stories. One of the greatest writers of English language supernatural tales, he penned the likes of A Pleasing Terror, Oh Whistle… and A Warning to the Curious. Takes place 2-4pm on 8 December, or wait until it gets dark and go at 6pm on 10 December. Tickets are £10 – port and seasonal snacks included. Adults only. www.weststow.org

Elsey’s Gallery Sneak away from the hustle and bustle of the town centre and out along Risbygate Street to discover Bury’s first pop-up gallery shop. Elsey’s Gallery is nestled away in Elsey’s Yard and opened just last month to showcase work from British artists and craft makers. It’s run and owned by exhibition curator at The Apex Cate Hadley, and offers a quiet sanctuary to escape to for a bit of Christmas shopping away from the crowds. The gallery stocks a gorgeous selection of handmade craft and art pieces, from paintings and prints to jewellery and textiles, that would all make lovely, unique gifts. The name, incidentally, is inspired by

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Cate’s grandmother: “It is poignant that my late and much-loved grandmother was coincidently named Elsie. She was an art lover and would have been proud to see lovely arts and crafts in a gallery with her name over the door. I am told that Elsey’s Yard was named after an eminent builder of Bury St Edmunds, but I am sure that they can share the accolade! Her photograph will appear in the gallery as a good omen.” The gallery is open 10am-5pm TuesdaySaturday, 11am-4pm Sundays. www.hadleyexhibitions.co.uk

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ARTS & CULTURE

CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES Grab the kids and get creative with a festive crafting session at Smith’s Row this month, where they’re hosting a series of sessions for children aged 4-9 years. Taking place 12.30-2pm on 7, 14 and 21 December, these drop-in workshops will be led by artist Vicky Ryall, who’ll be helping little ones make

decorations for the Christmas tree to take home and display in pride of place. Alternatively, pay a visit on 8 or 15 December for a fun-packed session of decorating your own Christmas elf, in the brilliantly named Express Your Elf session (11am, £3 per child). www.smithsrow.org

LONG MELFORD BOOK FAIR Bookworms rejoice, as this month sees the return of the largest and longestrunning book fair in Suffolk (if not the whole of East Anglia). Taking place on 7 December over at Long Melford Memorial Hall, the event will feature 26 dealers offering a huge range of second-hand, collectable, rare and out of print books from paperbacks to antiquarian tomes. There also promises

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to be lots of other interesting bits and bobs to peruse and purchase, from postcards to book-based ephemera. Once you’ve found yourself a great read or two, there will be some tasty homemade refreshments on offer. Open 10am-4pm, £1 entry. Children go free. www.missingbookfairs.co.uk

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ARTS & CULTURE

LITERARY XMAS Do your Christmas shopping at the traditional country store at Wyken Vineyards, Stanton. An emporium of stylish gifts and decorations, Wyken is dedicated to seeking out treasures made by British manufacturers to give you a wide choice of items – and support the artists, too. This year, they’ve opened their Book Room, which contains unusual books you won’t find elsewhere. The store is open late on 8 December for their Literary Christmas Evening (7.30pm; £15). It will give you access to their unique books, plus wine and mince pies. Proceeds go towards Save The Children and the Orminston Trust. There’s also a Christmas Farmer’s Market on 21 December. www.wykenvineyards.co.uk

AN ALBION CHRISTMAS

DICKENSIAN CHRISTMAS Step back in time this month and enjoy an insight into Victorian life at Kentwell Hall’s Dickensian Christmas event, which runs for the first three weekends of December. Escape the onslaught of yuletide commercialism with a hearty dose of traditional festive spirit that includes a visit from Father Christmas, seasonal food and drink, craft activities, and a history lesson to boot. You can explore the spectacular house, learning about how Christmas

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was celebrated in days gone by, as well as making some Victorian-style Christmas decorations and a traditional wreath. There’s the opportunity to take luncheon or perhaps an afternoon tea in the Victorian tea rooms, as well as pay a visit to the most authentic Father Christmas around, who’ll be welcoming visitors into an atmospheric cottage... See times and prices online.

Billed as ‘the perfect antidote to the corporate Christmas’, An Albion Christmas sees four top musicians pooling their talents for an evening of carols, humorous readings and dance – an ideal festive family occasion in the run-up to the day itself. It features the combined talents of Simon Nicol (Fairport Convention), Kellie While (Albion Band) Simon Care (Edward II) and the Guvnor himself, Ashley Hutchings, and takes place at The Apex on 23 December. This year they celebrate their 15th anniversary and will be performing a selection of hits from their back catalogue of Christmas albums, combined with folk-tinted and acoustic music. They’ve sold out in previous years, so don’t leave this one along with your last-minute shopping. Tickets are £14/£16, showtime 8pm. www.theapex.co.uk

www.kentwell.co.uk

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FAMILY

Stick Man Trail

Festive Film

AT THETFORD FOREST

AT THE PICTUREHOUSE

Inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-adored Stick Man tale, Thetford Forest has put together an activity trail filled with clue hunting, poetry writing and drawing, all designed to help children find out a bit more about why forests are important. Best of all, it is free; just visit High Lodge information point to collect all you need. The trail is open every day until the end of January (except Christmas Day) and activity sheets are available for download from the website. www.forestry.gov.uk

CHRISTMAS SPARKLE

at Ickworth

As the countdown to Christmas begins, Ickworth House is hosting three weekends of family-friendly festive fun. The folk at Ickworth will help you get your Christmas craft on with tree decoration, cracker-making and puppet-making workshops, as well as a sweetie-making session. After a busy day crafting, grab a blanket and snuggle down for a story from Father Christmas himself, followed by an early Christmas gift. Traditional carnival games will be ongoing in the house throughout the weekends or you can wrap up warm and follow the Christmas trail in the woods. Indoor activities run from 11am until 4pm every weekend before Christmas Day, from 7 December. Entry is £8 per child (from 18 months), National Trust members go free, £6 for non-members. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Aladdin

AT THE THEATRE ROYAL

“He’s behind you!” Yep, it’s that time of year again, so dust down your panto chants and head over to the Theatre Royal for a sure-to-be-brilliant performance of Aladdin. In the exotic land of Old Peking, young Aladdin spends his days up to his elbows in pants and petticoats, working at his mother, Widow Twankey’s laundrette. But sorting smelly socks is no job for a hero, and the discovery of a magic lamp sets Aladdin on course for the adventure of a lifetime, with plenty of slapstick, sparkle and silliness along the way... This year sees the ever-popular James Nickerson reprising his role as Dame, alongside Jessica Spalis as Aladdin, Chris Coxon as Wishee Washee and David Chittenden as the evil villain Abanazer. Shows run through December until 12 January and ticket prices start at £8, up to £25. See online for times and further information. www.theatreroyal.org

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On 21 December, the Abbeygate Picturehouse is screening the animated comedy Arthur Christmas, which follows the story of Father Christmas’ son Arthur as he embarks on a mission to find a little girl’s missing presents. Curious kids will be delighted to have a sneak peak inside Santa’s top secret and very high-tech workshop. You can expect lots of laughs and it’s guaranteed to leave you with that warm festive feeling. The film has been especially chosen for the Picturehouse’s Kids Club and will show at 11am. Tickets for children and accompanying adults are £1 each. www.picturehouses.co.uk

Santa’s Grotto

AT BLACKTHORPE BARN Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa’s in town and he is excited to meet the good boys and girls of Bury in his grotto at Blackthorpe Barn. With a helping hand from parents (see online), Santa has done his homework and made sure he remembers each and every child and a little something about them. Santa will be at the Barn every weekend in the run-up to Christmas and visits must be booked in advance online. Entrance is £5 for children and £1 for adults. www.blackthorpebarn.com

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LISTINGS

WHAT’S ON

A round-up of events in and around Bury St Edmunds for December BURY ST EDMUNDS CHRISTMAS FAYRE 1 December Time: 10am-5pm Location: Bury town centre Price: Free Description: It’s been on for longer than ever this year, so catch the last day of the biggest Christmas fair in Suffolk, with food stalls, entertainment, gifts and more across the town centre and Abbey Gardens. burystedmunds christmasfayre.co.uk

5 December

CHRISTMAS SALE Time: 9am-9pm Location: Krazy Horse Price: 20% off clothing brands Description: For one day only, Krazy Horse is offering a preChristmas discount of 20% off selected clothing brands for those gifts for your loved ones. The friendly folk at the store are even keeping their doors open late until 9pm so you can make the most of the exclusive offer. krazyhorse.co.uk

MEXICAN NIGHT Time: 12-9.30pm Location: LP Price: From £9.50 Description: On the first Thursday of every month, LP is bringing a little bit of Mexico to Bury with its Mexicanthemed food nights. There are vegetarian alternatives to the classic meaty burritos and fajitas, so there is no excuse to not get on down there for a night packed full of flavour. lp-bar.co.uk

7-8 December

MARCH HARE COLLECTIVE Time: 10am-4pm Location: The Apex Price: Free entry Description: This group of Suffolk artists, crafters and designers will be selling their wares at the Apex this December, so head down there for a selection of lovely festive gifts and crafts. marchharecollective.co.uk

CHRISTMAS TREES AND ENTERTAINMENT

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7-8 December

WREATH MAKING Time: 2-4pm (Sat) & 11am-1pm, 2-4pm (Sun) Location: Nowton Park Nursery Price: £5 Description: Using materials foraged from the vast park, learn how to make a festive wreath that you will be proud to pin to your front door. Adults only. stedmundsbury.gov.uk

8 December

SEE FATHER CHRISTMAS Time: 4.30pm Location: Pakenham Water Mill Price: £4.50, adults free Description: Visit Father Christmas at Pakenham Mill and you can explore the mill beforehand from 3pm. To stave off the cold weather, there will be hot punch and mince pies. Good boys and girls will also receive a special present each. pakenhamwatermill.org.uk

8 & 10 December CRAFTIVITIES 7, 14 & 21 December

Time: 12.30-2pm Location: Smiths Row Price: £3 per child Description: Take your family along to Smiths Row for a crafty class with local artist Vicky Ryall who will show you how to make some lovely Christmas decorations to take home and to decorate the gallery’s very own Christmas tree with. smithsrow.org

FAT CAT COMEDY 8 December

7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22 December

Time: See times online Location: Elveden Estate Price: Free entry Description: Fetch your Christmas tree in style this year with entertainment galore at the Estate. There will be all sorts going on including donkey rides, bungee trampolines and wall climbing. For the first two weekends, you can even have Newfoundland dogs tow your tree to the car! elveden.com

5 DEC

5 December

M R JAMES GHOST STORIES Time: 2-4pm (Sun) & 6-8pm (Tues) Location: Moyse’s Hall Price: £10 Description: Relax with a glass of port and a yuletide treat as you listen to two spooky readings given by ‘the Victorian gentleman’. But beware, this is spooky stuff, for adults only! weststow.org

8 DEC

Time: 8pm Location: The Apex Price: £12 Description: Head down to the Apex this month to catch wonderfully witty Fringe favourites Kieran Boyd, Mark Cooper-Jones and Naz Osmanoglu, aka WitTank. You’re in for a treat with this innovative, energetic trio, whose unique brand of comedy has earned them much critical acclaim and ever-increasing audiences. fatcatcomedyclub.com

10 December

STEELEYE SPAN Time: 8pm Location: The Apex Price: £20/£22 Description: Folk rock band Steeleye Span is touring the UK with its latest album, a collaboration with author Terry Pratchett, inspired by his acclaimed Wintersmith novel. theapex.co.uk

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LISTINGS

IMAGES FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:

Newfoundland dogs will happily tow your Christmas tree to your car at Elveden estate this Christmas. You can see comedy trio WitTank bring their quirky act to The Apex, or you could visit the March Hare Collective for some crafty goods on 7 and 8 December.

10 DEC

AN ENGLISH CHRISTMAS 10 December

Time: 1.10pm Location: St Mary’s Church Price: £8.50 Description: Join the Chapel Choir of Selwyn College at the magnificent and rather iconic St Mary’s Church for 2013’s final lunchtime concert from the Theatre Royal. Expect traditional carols and arrangements, including music written by Suffolk’s very own Benjamin Britten. theatreroyal.org

THE NUTCRACKER 12 December

14 December

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Time: 11am-3pm Location: Newmarket town centre Price: Free entry Description: Heading into Newmarket for a spot of Christmas shopping? At this family day there will be plenty of games, competitions and fun, so you can buy all those pressies and keep the little ones entertained. forest-heath.gov.uk

14-15 December

THE YULE TREE Time: 10am-5pm Location: West Stow AngloSaxon Village Price: £6-£9 Description: In the Ormsgard Dark Ages Theatres’ final performance of the year The Yule Tree, you will be transported back in time to discover England’s pagan past. weststow.org

19 December

Time: 7.15pm Location: The Abbeygate Picturehouse Price: £13-£20 Description: Live from the Royal Opera House in London, festive ballet The Nutcracker will be screened in Bury’s very own Picturehouse cinema. All the magic of Christmas minus the train ride to the theatre. picturehouses.co.uk

14 DEC

CHRISTMAS FAMILY DAY 14 December

DEPDEN SUPPER CLUB Time: 7pm Location: Depden Farm Café Price: £25 Description: This month’s supper club, a monthly pop-up event, has a wintry theme with dishes including chicken liver parfait with spiced cranberry chutney and Christmas spiced pork and chestnut wellington. depden.com

A CONCERT OF CAROLS Time: 7.30pm Location: St Edmundsbury Cathedral Price: From £8, children under 12 free Description: RAF Honington Military Wives Choir will be accompanied by the RAF Honington Band for an evening of festive carols at the town’s impressive cathedral. stedscathedral.co.uk

14 DEC 23 December

AN ALBION CHRISTMAS Time: 8pm Location: The Apex Price: £14/£16 Description: In an evening of traditional Christmas music, dancing and celebration, the Albion Christmas Show will take you on a tour through Britain’s festive customs. This wholesome and humorous festive performance is definitely not to be missed! theapex.co.uk

BOXING DAY DINNER 26 December

Time: 12-2pm Location: Ravenwood Hall Hotel Price: £22.50 (under 10s) & £37.50 Description: After the madness of Christmas Day, why not take it easy on Boxing Day with a threecourse meal at Ravenwood? This out of the ordinary menu features wasabi and soymarinated salmon, pot-roasted guinea fowl and drop pancakes. ravenwoodhall.co.uk

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NEWS

Communit y NEWS YELLOW HOUSE RUGBY CHARITY CALENDAR

The ladies at the Yellow House wanted to give staff at local charity Bury St Edmunds Women’s Refuge some well-deserved pampering, so they opened exclusively on 25 November for the Refuge staff, who enjoyed a morning of beauty and hair treatments. Yellow House’s Vicky Halls said: “We just wanted to give something back to the people who run the refuge, to make them feel a bit special in the run-up to Christmas.” What a lovely act of kindness!

Stuck for stocking fillers? The Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club might be able to help you out, as they have posed for not one, but two 2014 calendars. The first calendar features everyone from the mini team through to the ladies side, who all dressed up in Breakthrough Breast Cancer pink. The second is a little cheekier (literally), as the lads from the First XV bare all with only a pink tutu to save their dignity! You can buy the calendars (£10) from the club or local shops, including Palmers and Bliss Hair Studios. All proceeds are being donated to Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

FUNDRAISING AT MANCHETTS Motoring firm Manchetts has managed to raise an applause-worthy £1,700 for Danny Pickard’s Help me Hear Campaign. Danny’s granddad used to work at Manchetts and so the team were thrilled to be able to help fundraise by holding a charity golf match and collecting in and around the village of Burwell. Danny and his mum came in to collect the cheque and in return Danny gave the team a lovely big hug.

ONLINE CHRISTMAS AUCTION In a bid to raise money for West Suffolk Hospital’s Neonatal Unit, an online Christmas auction is being hosted on Lacy Scott and Knight’s website. Running from 1 until 15 December, the auction will offer some amazing experiences, generously donated by local people and businesses, such as Maison Bleue owner Regis Crépy coming to your home to cook you a threecourse meal or a once-in-a-lifetime special training session with Rugby World Cup winner Andy Gomarsall. All the money raised will help provide vital care in the special baby unit. www.lskauctioncentre.co.uk

CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL Head along to St Mary’s Church in Woolpit to see their display of beautifully decorated festive trees and bells (6-8 December). Friday night will also see a concert by senior stage choir, the Voice Squad (£7.50, doors 6pm) and there will be snacks and mulled wine too. Bell ringing and carol singing will take place over the weekend (£2.50 entrance to church, under 12s go free), and craft stalls will be set up in the Woolpit Institute. All money raised from this weekend of yuletide fun will be donated to the church. For more information and to book tickets for Friday night’s concert, call 01359 240529.

CARDS FOR GOOD CAUSES Bury St Edmunds Tourist Information Centre might not have been on your radar for Christmas card buying, but this year, they have opened a fantastic pop-up shop selling cards from 35 local and national charities. Not only is there a brilliant range of designs to choose from, but you can donate to a number of different charities by mixing and matching. The shop is open Monday through to Saturday (10am-4pm) until 18 December. www.cardsforcharity.co.uk

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LATE NIGHT SHOPPING

HAVE YOURSELF A

Bury Little Christmas

With late night shopping and special festive events, there’s even more reason to keep it local when doing your Christmas shopping this year e certainly had every intention of getting our Christmas shopping done and dusted well in advance, but then life sort of gets in the way and unless you are one of those superhuman, mega-organised people who gets it all done in August (with bells on), then you are probably in the same sleigh as us. Thank goodness for late night shopping in Bury is all we can say! Every Thursday in the run-up to Christmas Day, shops aplenty around the historic town centre are keeping their doors open for a little longer, giving us the chance to get our gifts bought without having to face the weekend rush.

Stores in the arc shopping centre are staying open until 9pm, with most other shops in town not closing until around 8pm. Head over to St Johns Street, an indie store must-visit destination. Whether you are looking for the perfect party outfit or need some festive decs for your home, there is a great range of stores to choose from there. Parsley Pot over on Abbeygate Street is a fab little gift store, and their doors, along with most stores’ on the street, will be staying open late. Suzanne Cooper, Parsley Pot owner, says: “You can buy all sorts in the store, from decorations to rocking horses!” To keep you in high festive spirits, there will be musical entertainment throughout

Bury. And if you have kids with you, make sure Late Night you keep your Shopping eyes peeled for the magician 5,12,19 and face painter December who will both be doing the rounds. As well as late night shopping, you won’t have to worry about fumbling around for loose change to pay for the car park as they are all free after 3pm on 5, 12 and 19 December. So save those extra pounds and treat yourself to a well-deserved hot chocolate and mince pie!

Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre If you’re quick, you will be able to catch the very last day of Bury St Edmunds’ enormously popular Christmas Fayre, on 1 December (10am-5pm). With over 300 eclectic stalls to browse, including craft and jewellery stands, you are sure to tick a few presents off the list. On the same day, the Farmers’ Market will take over the Buttermarket, so you

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can grab some great artisan produce for the Christmas table, all of which has come from within 50 miles of Bury. Historical stalls will open over at Moyse’s Hall and there will be mulled wine and cakes at the Unitarian Meeting House. Pick up some tips and tricks from the cookery demonstrations in the Abbey Gardens to make this year’s Christmas dinner super

special and as ever, the funfair will also be in town so catch it while you can. You can get yourself a bargain too, as Palmers is offering 20 per cent off and children’s clothing and toy shop Raspberry Rascals will give you 15 per cent off spends over £15. Get there early to get the best of the fayre before it packs up until next year.

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INDIE OF THE MONTH

WORDS MEGAN CROFT

INDEPENDENT OF THE MONTH

Aubyn Davies

After 107 successful years in business, it’s no surprise that the eternally stylish Aubyn Davies has an army of customers who just keep marching back for more e took a trip down St Johns Street this month, Bury’s hub for independent businesses, to visit one of the longestestablished retailers in town, menswear shop Aubyn Davies. Now in its 107th year, the original slogan of ‘high-class tailoring at popular prices’ might no longer be painted on the shopfront, but it is easy to see the legacy that it left behind. Inside, the store is elegantly stocked throughout with displays of high-quality well-known brands, from Barbour, Henri Lloyd, Fred Perry and German trouser company Meyer, to Suffolk-based, family-run menswear specialists Gurteen. Currently run by the fourth generation of the family that opened up the very first shop in the market town, Richard Poole and his wife Anita explain that it is their ability to adapt to ever-changing trends that has kept the customers coming back over the years, earning them a varied but loyal customer base, which is actually quite unique to Aubyn Davies. “We have the older customers that now dress much younger,” says Richard. Anita adds: “But we still have the 18-year-olds who come in to buy Fred Perry.” Part of this wide-ranging appeal for customers is the great attention that the couple pays to the brands and lines that they choose to stock. They are even exclusive stockists in Bury of shirts from Dutch clothing line CULTURE and from Oscar of Sweden. “One of the most exciting parts of being involved in retail is going to menswear shows and sourcing new products, we really enjoy that side of the business,” explains Anita. This switched-on couple know that their efforts help them to stand out in an increasingly crowded market. “There is a lot of competition in Bury St Edmunds,” says Anita. “It’s not like most towns where you get a shop like this and

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it will be the only one; not here, there are loads of us,” adds Richard. Far from regarding this as a problem, Richard looks on the competition rather favourably. “It does help that you’ve got a lot of competition. It’s a bit like bridal shops – you know the old adage about bridal shops: you’re far better if you have a few of you together because you encourage people to come to the town, so you are able to provide choice between all of you. And as an independent, we are able to source products that are different to what anybody else has and provide those extra little details,” continues Richard. As well as being a successful purveyor of menswear, upstairs in Aubyn Davies is an entire floor dedicated to school clothing, after Richard’s grandfather merged his uniform business with the menswear store in the 60s, adding another string to its bow. Today, the store is an official stockist of uniforms for 11 local

schools and also provides club uniforms and sports equipment too. It seems the secret to the store’s success has to be the people who work in it, and this likeable duo employ a tried-and-tested mix of excellent personal service and handpicked, high-quality clothes. Richard sums up what it is that makes running Aubyn Davies so enjoyable. “Having happy customers leave the shop pleased with their purchases, having found what they were looking for and having had an enjoyable shopping experience.” There’s plenty in the pipeline for this popular Bury indie, as Richard and Anita are always looking to evolve and expand their clothing lines to make sure that Aubyn Davies stays top of the shops. Watch this space. 81 St Johns Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1SQ, 01284 754276 www.aubyndavies.co.uk

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FOOD

WORDS ALEX RUSHMER

Who needs Turkey?

Alex Rushmer embraces his Scandinavian roots for a Christmas of braised, cured, pickled delicacies that have him going back for seconds, thirds, fourths... here are few fixed points on Christmas Day. Presents might remain untouched until after the turkey has been consumed, or there could be a sea of wrapping paper carpeting the floor before the first pinwheel of smoked salmon has been nibbled. Some refuse to contemplate the thought of a hearty libation before the sun begins to set and others will actively encourage the brushing of one’s teeth with Buck’s Fizz. A mid-morning walk would be shunned by those who prefer a comforting amble to the local pub in the afternoon. Christmas Day is by and large a flexible day, timetabled by each family’s requirements. Since 1957 though, there has been a single immovable moment on 25 December. The Queen’s Christmas Message is a regal pole star around which the nation rotates in an orbit of feasting, imbibing, gift giving, board gaming, squabbling and snoozing. It’s comforting to know that regardless of your family’s inherited traditions and timetables there is a brief window of certainty. There is a similar convention too in my ancestral home of Sweden. Every year at three o’clock on the afternoon of Christmas Eve, the nation comes to a grinding halt as conversations cease and televisions are turned on. The atmosphere is one of tense respect and solemnity

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Images courtesy of John Lewis

The components of the Swedish julbord are cooked, braised, baked and cured over a couple of weeks born out of a tradition that post-dates The Queen’s Message by only two years. Except it is not the monarch or other high-ranking apparatchik of public office who addresses the nation but Disney’s perennially frustrated and terminally angry Anatidae Donald Duck. Only after the credits roll on Kalle Anka och hans vänner önskar God Jul (Donald Duck and friends wish you all a Merry Christmas) does the feasting commence. And what a feast it is. One of the traditions that my mother has maintained since moving to England in the late 1970s is that of the julbord: a delicious buffet of cured fish, cold cuts, cured pork, meatballs, cheese and other delights that serves as the Swedish equivalent of turkey, sprouts and cranberry sauce. There is a wonderful flexibility to the julbord both in terms of its contents and the laid-back approach with which guests load their plates over numerous visits to the table, progressing from cold items to hot and possibly even back again over the course of two, three or four hours. I’ve even been known to return to the feast after finally retiring to bed only to decide

that there is still a modicum of room remaining in my heaving belly that could only be filled by a piece of knäckebröd with a morsel of pickled herring balanced atop. It is also a far less stressful process than bringing together countless elements, each requiring oven space, at the same time, that the traditional British yuletide offering necessitates. The components of the Swedish julbord are cooked, braised, baked and cured in large batches over a couple of weeks leaving less of a frenzy and more of a relaxed unveiling come the celebrations which, as a chef, has major plus points. And that’s before we even get started on the great flavours of red cabbage, meatballs and Jansson’s Temptation. So for the Christmas feast this year why not try shunning tradition and heading north to the wild climes of Scandinavia for culinary inspiration? I guarantee it will be less stressful and more delicious than any turkey, no matter how carefully prepared. For those who can’t contemplate the notion of a turkey-less Christmas, perhaps we can compromise instead on a little bit of Duck?

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EATING IN

WORDS ALEX RUSHMER IMAGES CHARLOTTE GRIFFITHS

RECIPE

Aside from the centrepiece of a glazed ham, these three recipes are, for me, the cornerstone of the Swedish Christmas smorgasbord. All can be prepared in advance and are delightfully easy to cook

Swedish meatballs There can’t be many of you who haven’t refuelled on a plate of meatballs after the stresses of a schlep around Ikea. The key here is a combination of pork and beef mince as well as soaked bread in place of breadcrumbs which results in a meatball that is both moist and flavoursome.

Ingred ients

500g lean minced pork 500g minced beef 2 slices of white bread 200ml milk 2 egg yolks a pinch of ground allspice 1 onion, finely diced 1tsp cooking oil 1tsp table salt black pepper 1tbsp plain f lour 1 litre beef stock 250ml double cream

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Soak the bread in milk for five minutes then squeeze out any excess liquid and set to one side. In a shallow frying pan, soften the diced onion over a gentle heat along with the cooking oil and a pinch of salt for ten minutes, stirring regularly, ensuring the onion doesn’t colour or burn. If you have a stand mixer use the beating attachment to mix together the minced beef, pork, soaked bread, cooked onion, egg yolks, salt, pepper and allspice. If not, combine the ingredients using your hands. Cook off a small amount of the mixture and taste it to check you have the

MAKES

24-28 MEATBALLS

seasoning correct. If not, adjust the salt and pepper levels and try again. If so, shape into equal-sized meatballs – they should be about 50g each. Fry them off in batches to caramelise and colour the outside then place in a casserole or lidded saucepan. Use the same frying pan to cook the plain flour for a minute or so then add the beef stock and cream. Pour over the meatballs and cook in a preheated oven at 150°C for 45 minutes. Either serve them immediately or leave to cool and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat as and when necessary.

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EATING IN

Ingred ients 500g herring fillets 100g curing salt or table salt (not sea salt) 500ml white wine vinegar 125g caster sugar 1tbsp black peppercorns 1 white onion, peeled and finely sliced 1 carrot, peeled and finely sliced 1 /2tbsp coriander seeds 1 /2tbsp allspice berries 4 bay leaves

Pickled herring Swedish style

Despite being a constant feature on the Christmas table for as long as I can remember, I was well beyond my teenage years before I could fully appreciate the wonder of properly cured herring. Perhaps I finally grew into my heritage. Now I can’t get enough of them. The very best foodstuff to eat with ice cold schnapps, of which there is plenty come Christmas Eve. Less so by Christmas Day.

2. 3. 4.

Begin by making the pickling liquid. Place the vinegar, sugar, onion, carrot, bay leaves and spices in a pan and gently bring to the boil. Leave to cool at room temperature then refrigerate. Lay the herring fillets out in a single layer on a plastic tray and sprinkle generously with the salt. It may look like a lot but it will get washed off. Cover and leave in the fridge for one or two hours. The herring should give off plenty of moisture and the flesh will tighten up. Rinse the fillets in plenty of cold water then add to the pickling liquid, cover tightly and leave to cure for at least two days. Eat when the feeling takes hold.

Jansson’s Temptation Cream. Butter. Onions. Potatoes. Sprats. If there is a greater combination of ingredients I am yet to find it. This is a supremely decadent Swedish take on a dauphinois, so-called because the eponymous and pious Jansson could supposedly resist all earthly pleasures save this one. If you can’t find cured sprats, anchovies will make a fine substitute.

2. 3.

Preheat the oven to 170°C. Grease an ovenproof dish with a little butter and start layering the potatoes in the base. Cover with a thin layer of onions and then a few of the sprats. Season with plenty of black pepper and a delicate sprinkling of salt. Repeat until the dish is full or you have run out of ingredients. The more layers the better. Combine the cream and milk and pour over the top until it comes to within a centimetre of the top of the dish. Sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs and bake in the oven for an hour. Leave to cool slightly before diving in. But only slightly.

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Ingred ients 8 waxy potatoes, peeled and cut into french fries 1 large white onion, peeled and sliced 15 tinned cured sprat fillets, or the same number of anchovies in oil 150ml double cream 150ml milk 50g butter plenty of black pepper a pinch of salt a handful of panko (Japanesestyle) breadcrumbs

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DRINKS WORDS NICK ARMITAGE IMAGES CHARLOTTE GRIFFITHS

Noggin Off your

here are Easter eggs in the shops so it must be Christmas! At this most wonderful time of the year why not add to your mountainous kitchen duties by making eggnog, a largely ignored winter drink? Glühwein and mulled wine will be everywhere so let’s go a little off-piste – and if you do have one of those hilarious jumpers with a Christmas tree or a reindeer on, now’s the time to don it and get mixing. Many of my recent Christmasses have been spent in Stockholm, Sweden and, as well as mindless days spent rolling Swedish meatballs, I also drank (to stave off the boredom of the rolling you understand) a glass or two of Kecke’s Mother’s Egg Nog. It’s a creamy, unctuous (in a good way) and utterly delicious experience, and whilst it may not be a traditional Swedish drink, they sure seem to drink a lot of it over there. The word ‘nog’ actually originates from East Anglia so for us, it’s local too, and the drink itself is English. Derived from a drink called posset, which gives a clue to what it is, eggnog straddles the line between a dessert and a drink. A few centuries ago, eggnog was the exclusive choice of the upper classes, since they were the only ones who had access to fresh milk and eggs, being farm owners – plus, way back then your average Londoner had no idea what a glass of milk looked like, plus ça change. Now we can all drink it, but I wouldn’t advise chugging it down, one is enough for the whole year!

EGGNOG

METHOD

Ingredients

Put the milk, eggs, sugar and vanilla in a pan. Heat gently until it thickens. Do not let it boil.

(8 glasses) 2 pints whole milk 6 free range eggs 50g caster sugar 1 vanilla pod, split 200ml brandy* cocoa powder for dusting *in America they use rum (feel free)

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Add brandy and serve hot. Alternatively, let it cool and then add the brandy and serve.

Merry Christmas ! BURYEDITION.CO.UK

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FIVE OF THE BEST

WORDS MEGAN CROFT

five of the best...

ROAST DINNERS

When there's a chill in the air, there are few greater pleasures than pitching up somewhere cosy and enjoying a traditional Sunday roast. Here's our pick of the bunch

ELVEDEN

It doesn’t get much fresher than at Elveden Estate’s Courtyard Restaurant, where you can tuck into a Sunday lunch that has been made using produce from the estate itself – even the herbs are foraged from the land! For their traditional Sunday roast, you can choose from Elveden-grazed sirloin of beef, Estate-reared Jacob lamb, Breckland pork loin or a nut roast, served alongside farm veggies, roast potatoes and a Yorkshire pudding, all topped off with a good helping of rich red wine gravy. You can choose from either two courses (£16.50) or three (£19.50) and head chef Scott Taylor has created a pretty special menu of starters and desserts. We like the look of the Estate venison and pigeon terrine and as it’s Sunday, we’d just have to try the caramelised Estate plum crumble in disguise too. Ginger beer with chilli and cranberry and orange pressé are just some of the different offerings on the drinks menu. If you are in the farm shop beforehand, you can even handpick a bottle of wine to take in and enjoy with your meal (free corkage). The courtyard tends to get busy on a Sunday so call in advance to secure a table. Elveden Estate, London Road, Thetford IP24 3TQ, 01842 898066, www.elveden.com

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BUNBURY ARMS

Have your Sunday roast exactly the way you like it at Great Barton’s Bunbury Arms, where you can pile your plate full of your favourites from the pub’s classic British carvery. You won’t be short of choice, as coowner and chef Stephen Smith roasts four kinds of meat every Sunday, including a mustard-glazed gammon alongside the usual pork, turkey and beef. Vegetarians aren’t forgotten, as the Bunbury Arms cooks up a tasty carrot and coriander nut roast. Make sure you grab one of their homemade Yorkshire puds too, which are known for being rather impressive. The carvery runs all week, but stays open later on Sundays until 8pm (£10.95), when there is a larger array of food to choose from. Normally jam-packed full of hungry diners, it might be wise to book your table in advance to make sure you don’t miss out! Ixworth Road, Bury St Edmunds IP31 2NX, 01359 231253

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FIVE OF THE BEST

THE QUEEN’S HEAD

Being tucked away in the picturesque village of Hawkedon certainly doesn’t deter punters from visiting the Queen’s Head, who come for the friendly atmosphere, cask ales and the outstandingly delicious home-cooked meals; this really is a pub for foodies and drinkers alike. “Sundays are by far the most popular day of the week for us,” says chef Julie Hurst. It is easy to see why, as their vegetables are all sourced locally and their topside joint of beef comes straight from the pub’s own butchers, Monty Duke. “All of our meat comes from our butchers, so we can trace back to exactly which field the livestock has come from. It all comes from either Norfolk or Suffolk,” enthuses Julie. The Queen’s traditional Sunday roast (£13.95, 12pm-2.30pm) is served with seasonal veg and new or roast potatoes or hand-cut chips, as well as a sizeable Yorkshire pudding. If you still have room after a hearty meal, why not polish off a home-made dessert or settle in front of the fire with a drink? According to parish records, Queen Elizabeth I enjoyed ‘sumptuous feasting’ at the pub. If it’s good enough for royals, it is most certainly good enough for us. Rede Road, Hawkedon IP29 4NN, 01284 789218, www.hawkedonqueen.co.uk

NORTON DOG

The very cosy and family-friendly Norton Dog serves a roast that is entirely home-made, from the roast potatoes down to the proper gravy and sauces. What’s more, it offers a like-for-like gluten-free roast dinner (as well as a full gluten-free menu!) and a Sunday lunch that’s just the right size for children. Each Sunday, there are three different meats to choose from and these vary from week to week, but normally always include British beef. As much of the produce is locally sourced as possible and on top of the Sunday roast, a full menu and a specials board (most of which is also gluten free) are available. There is also a wide range of tasty starters and desserts to choose from – we hear the triple chocolate brownie is an absolute must. Just a 15-minute drive from Bury town centre, this popular Norton pub is packed full of character and is open and serving food all day during the week. Sunday lunches are served throughout the day (12-9pm) and cost from £10.95. Ixworth Road, Norton IP31 3LP, 01359 230440, www.thenortondog.com

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PRIORY HOTEL

Generous portions, tasty produce and great value for money are what you can expect from your Sunday lunch (12-2pm) at the Priory Hotel. Far from serving up your standard roast every week, the hotel’s chef Steven Aves works with the best seasonal and local produce. One Sunday you could be tucking into a delicious piece of topside of beef and the next some perfectly cooked pork, all alongside a sizeable portion of vegetables and those notoriously yummy duck fat roasted potatoes. There is also a very tempting dessert menu available, again updated seasonally, but you can expect the likes of a home-made apple crumble or sticky toffee pudding. Or if you are more of a starter person, there are some really mouth-watering options, including a salad version of a ploughman’s lunch with pureed goat’s cheese, cheddar cheese beignet and beer bread (two courses £13; three courses £15). As Steven puts it: “We just want to give people a decent warming meal that is good value.” So you’re sure not to leave for home feeling hungry or out of pocket. Mildenhall Road, Bury St Edmunds IP32 6EH, 01284 766181, www.prioryhotel.co.uk

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FOOD

F OOD NEWS

A monthly round-up of gastronomic goings-on in Bury and the surrounding area

W NE G EN I N OP

STATION STEAKHOUSE AND BAR We’re ridiculously excited to announce that the Station Steakhouse and Bar is now officially open for business, after a glamorous launch party in November. Located on Northgate Street, at the former site of the Linden Tree, this place is already generating quite a buzz for it’s stylish, vintage-luxe décor and distinctive food offerings. As well as delicious juicy steaks in a range of sizes and with a variety of accompaniments, there are also home-made burgers and tasty pizzas on the menu, plus some rather more exotic meats including python, zebra, camel and water buffalo – a first for Bury if we’re not mistaken! However it’s the fantastic interior, inspired by years of globetrotting from the owners (who originally hail from Australia), which has really got locals talking. The restaurant is adorned with all manner of quirky touches, from a wall of retro suitcases, a faux train carriage to copious flags, maps and photographs on the walls and ceilings, as well as plush leather armchairs in which to recline and enjoy your feast – the whole place oozes sophistication and old-school luxury. If you’re just stopping by for a drink, you’ll also be well catered for. The dapper mixologists behind the bar will whip you up whatever tipple you fancy, but there’s also a comprehensive cocktail menu which features classics like Bloody Marys and Margaritas (starting at £6.50), as well as a range of mocktails. There’s a good range for the kids too, as well as a 72oz steak challenge for the braver diner, and they’ll be open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There was a jazz band at the grand opening last month, and the restaurant is keen to host more live music events in the future – stay tuned to Bury Edition for updates. www.stationsteakhouse.co.uk

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FOOD

CAFE DEL MAR From Lebanon to Egypt and across to Italy, new restaurant Cafe Del Mar takes food inspiration from all around the Mediterranean Sea for its varied and tempting menu. The restaurant has been set up by local lady Maria Crick, whose 30-year catering hobby has finally turned into a full-time business, after lots of encouragement from friends and family. It is a real family affair at the Cafe, as both Maria’s daughters have taken roles within the business, working as the front-of-house manager and the restaurant’s accountant respectively. Along with head chef Niall Cockran, Maria works hard in the kitchen. “We cook everything from scratch, using only fresh herbs and ingredients. We make all of our own breads and cakes as well,” she explains. On Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights, the restaurant serves up a tapas menu which we hear is very popular, with prices starting at £3.95 per dish or three for £10. Every Sunday, you can order an alterative to the traditional English roast dinner – most recently there was a mouth-watering offering of roast leg of lamb in paprika, cumin and garlic with Mediterranean vegetables, home-made tzatziki and salad (£9.95). The lunchtime offerings include plates such as panini with Parma ham and Camembert or chorizo, tomato and mozzarella, as well as platters of meat and fish and some great veggie options too. Cafe Del Mar also offers a scrumptious looking breakfast menu, including smoked salmon and scrambled egg, freshly baked croissants, and pain au chocolat. “We try to do things that people recognise as breakfast items and give it a Mediterranean twist,” says Maria. Located on St Johns Street, Cafe Del Mar is already the talk of the town – so book a table while you still can! Search ‘Cafe Del Mar Bury St Edmunds’ on Facebook to keep up to date with what’s going on.

OLD CANNON BREWERY If you are feeling a little delicate from the night before or are just exhausted from all the festivities, the Old Cannon Brewery has come to the rescue with their all-day full Suffolk breakfast served on Boxing Day (12-5pm) and New Year’s Day (12-3pm). No need to lift a finger, just relax with unlimited tea and coffee (hoorah) and enjoy a good old fry-up (£12.50 or £8.50 for a smaller portion). Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available on request. www.oldcannonbrewery.co.uk

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W NE G EN I N OP

The Friendly Loaf Bring a taste of traditional German Christmas to the table this year, with a loaf of stollen freshly baked by father and son duo, Mark and Hamish from the Friendly Loaf. “People seem to really like stollen and we make ours from fresh from scratch,” says Mark. From their idyllically located bakery in converted stables at Rede Hall, the Friendly Loaf bakes a whole range of different kinds of pastries, pasties and breads. “Rye is also great at Christmas, it goes especially well with a starter of salmon,” enthuses Mark. The Friendly Loaf is also baking a special festive variation of their walnut bread by incorporating stilton into the mix. You can catch the Friendly Loaf at the Bury market on Wednesdays (outside Holland & Barrett) and Saturdays (outside Palmers), where you can buy truly local bread made with lots of love. www.thefriendlyloaf.co.uk

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FOOD

Jimmy’s Farm It is a festive foodie bonanza at Jimmy’s Farm this December, with a Christmas Fayre on 7 and 8 December (free entry and parking) as well as Christmas parties going on from 5 until 21 of the month. At the fayre, you will be treated to live demonstrations from professional chefs and industry experts, and around 50 stallholders will be tempting you with their wares, which include homemade bread, pies and cakes; local cheeses and oils, hog roasts, pulled pork and roasted chestnuts. Mulled wine and cider will be plentiful and you can even pick up a few gifts; Jimmy’s Farm Christmas pudding ale sounds boozily delicious. Carollers and local bands will keep your spirits high and a visit to Father Christmas could be on the cards for well-behaved kids! If you fancy a bit of real festive indulgence, then Jimmy Farm’s Christmas parties are where it’s at. Along with a three-course meal (£40 per head) made using Jimmy’s homegrown and home-reared produce, you will be greeted with a glass of Prosecco and can finish the night with a good old knees-up in the bar (must be booked in advance). www.jimmysfarm.com

W NE G EN I N BAR MILAN

The small but lively Bar Milan is the latest addition to Bury’s bar scene, after opening on St John’s Street in November. Set up by Coady L-Rhys and Tom McKenna, the idea for the bar came about after the pair’s time in Milan where they were inspired to try and recreate a similar nightlife experience back in Bury. The result is a cool Italianstyle bar that opens from 4pm until 1am from Tuesdays until Saturdays, and for those with the stamina for partying, it’s open until 4am on New Year’s Eve. If you fancy a tipple, this Christmas, Bar Milan is offering a free shot on entry and any four ‘bombs’ for £10. We can’t wait to check this place out! Search for Bar Milan on Facebook.

DEPDEN CHRISTMAS HAMPERS Depden Farm Shop has come up with an ingenious idea to save you from the dreaded Christmas food shop: Christmas in a box. You can pre-order everything from home-made cranberry sauce to local vegetables grown within miles of the farm, to the turkey itself – you can even choose a home-cooked starter and dessert. Just print off a form (available from their website) and take it along to the farm shop where you can select your produce; it will then be picked out for you and ready for collection from the store from 21 December right up until 3pm on Christmas Eve. Or if you think you know someone who is a bit of a foodie, why not give them a Christmas gift hamper? Each hamper is bespoke so you can select exactly what is included, before it is all beautifully gift-wrapped ready to be put under the tree. Depden, we salute you. www.depden.com

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FOOD

Reci pe

GALLERY HIGHWAYMANS On 1 December the Gallery Highwaymans have a Vintage Afternoon Tea Party, featuring gift and craft stalls, tea, coffee, sandwiches and cakes. The event is being hosted in support of the Papworth Trust’s Workwise scheme: an awardwinning social enterprise that helps provide training and employment support for disabled people and people with mental illnesses (2pm4.30pm, £5 adv/£7.50). Next up, on 7 December, there’s a special breakfast just for the ladies (9.30am-12.30pm, £5), and the following day is the Highwaymans’ Christmas Party, which will feature a huge festive buffet lunch (12pm-4pm).

GRAZE BURGER RECIPE

le from Availab

itchen For the burgers Graze K r & Ba 6 brioche buns 1kg steak mince (15% fat) 2tbsp Maldon sea salt (don’t be afraid of seasoning and don’t stint on the beef!) For the bacon jam 500g dried cured Suffolk smoky bacon 200ml Butterworth’s brewed coffee 2tbsp maple syrup 200g soft brown sugar 1/2 diced white onion

LP Don your sombrero and get down to LP for a sizzling taste of Mexico at the bar and restaurant’s new Mexican themed night held on the first Thursday of every month. Fajitas, burritos, loaded nachos and chilli all feature on the menu; you can enjoy three courses for £18 (mains from £9.50) and wash it all down with an ice cold Mexican lager or margarita. LP also provides a roasted vegetable alternative to the usual meaty fillings, so everyone can tuck in and enjoy. The themed menu will be available this month on 5 December (12-9.30pm). What are you waiting for? Arriba! Arriba! www.lp-bar.co.uk

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Step-by-step-guide For the burgers 1. Don’t squash mince, keep loose. Season evenly and massage in. 2. Weigh out six balls and press into patties. Cover and chill for two hours. For the bacon jam 1. Finely dice onion and bacon, fry off on a high heat until golden, in a heavy based saucepan. 2. Add the coffee and reduce heat. Add sugar, maple syrup and reduce for 25 mins until you have jam. Remove from heat, transfer to a bowl. Leave to cool. Serve with triple-cooked chips.

Gubbins Mayfield cheese Iceberg lettuce French’s American mustard Gherkins

Method for building burger Bun Gubbins Burger Bacon jam Bun

Eat!

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Advertisement feature

Insight Vacations What really makes the staff at Fred. Olsen Travel stand out from the crowd is their knowledge and expertise – they don't just work in travel, travelling is their passion s a company, Fred. Olsen Travel invest heavily in the education of their staff and that means they get to travel all over the world to gain real experience, to ensure customers receive the very best service possible. Mark Scrivener, assistant manager at Fred. Olsen Travel in Bury St Edmunds, has just been on an educational experience to Spain and Portugal with Insight Vacations. Here is his adventure... "The first thing you notice on an Insight Vacations coach is the amount of legroom. They reduce a normal 52 seat coach to 40 seats giving everybody maximum comfort; that equates to about 32cm extra leg room compared to a normal coach tour. It had been some time since I had been on an escorted tour, and as I am quite an independent traveller, I was intrigued. Insight Vacations Escorted Tours are professionally guided by a tour director throughout, who stays in the same hotels as you so is on hand 24/7 should you have any queries or need help. In the cities you visit they also have local guides who show you their town, their place, through their own eyes and tell stories about it. The quality of hotels you will stay in are of a high standard and in great central locations. Many meals are also included using local style restaurants and menus where possible, and more often than not wine will be included with the meal as well. All this shifts the reputation of coach tours away from the oldfashioned image, to something more modern and luxurious. "Madrid was my first point of entry into Spain, and after the short flight I was met at the airport and shown to the coach. You are made to feel extremely welcome and transferred to your first night at the hotel where you are advised what time to meet for the welcome dinner. It is here that you will meet your fellow travelling companions from Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, USA and South Africa! The tour is in English so no having to listen to various translations! It is amazing how quickly you will become

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friends with the other travellers, as not only will you be touring with them but taking meals together too. As of April 2014 you will also be able to keep in contact with friends at home, as Insight Vacations will be offering free WiFi on their European Tour coaches, making it easy to share your adventure. The tour began next morning and once settled in your comfortable seat you will be briefed about the day ahead, what you will be seeing and, of course, meal and comfort breaks. With the knowledge of the tour director and local guide you see the best parts of the city and are given excellent inside history and knowledge, saving you time and meaning you learn so much more than you probably would on your own. Entrance fees to sights are all included, making it an easy experience and your tour director handles the collection of tickets and passes. On the walking tours you are issued with a discrete audio guide with earpiece so you can hear all that the local tour guide is saying, leaving you free to take pictures but not miss any of the information. The days are never too strenuous and always allow you some free time. "From Madrid I also visited Toledo and Cordoba before arriving in the beautiful city of Seville. Discovering a city such as this is a delight and to be taken to all the best parts instantly was amazing. I covered so much on the tour without having to spend hours planning and studying maps – this is the joy of an escorted tour. In the evening the group was split into three to offer a 'dine around', where we got to eat at different places and then chat and compare. Each of the authentic local restaurants had been chosen by Insight – places you would never ﬁnd on your own. The journey back to the hotel was full of laughter and chat with new friends. Insight also took us to a ﬂamenco show and dinner, again all included in the cost of your tour. These extra things, which are listed in the brochure, make an escorted tour very special. "After Spain it was on to Portugal for two nights in Lisbon. Regular stops were made en route, including a lunch break at Tavira, a

seaside resort on the Algarve. Arrival into Lisbon early evening was spectacular and we were taken high above the city to see the statue of Christ which I did not know about, but the history behind it was fascinating. After a superb walking tour with a local guide, we had our farewell dinner. It is incredible how quickly you can become friends with 39 strangers. I can now totally understand the appeal of an escorted tour and to experience a quality company like Insight Vacations was a joy." To ﬁnd out more about Spain & Portugal pop in and see Mark at Fred. Olsen Travel, 33 Brentgovel Street, Bury St Edmunds or call 01284 847907.

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INTERIORS

WORDS ANGELINA VILLA-CLARKE

HOME FOR THE

HOLIDAYS

We’re sure you’ll be decking your rooms with more than just a few boughs of holly this Christmas. Looking for inspiration? Then our festive guide to seasonal décor will inspire you to add a sprinkle of sparkle and a touch of magic to your home

hether it’s a perfectly colour coordinated scheme or a mix of much-loved hand-medowns, dressing your home for Christmas is a uniquely personal affair. Whatever style catches your eye, there’s no doubt that it’s the most wonderful time of year to make your home the best it can be.

COLOUR FRENZY If we can’t indulge in our love for eyepopping colours and chintz at Christmas, then we never will. If you are a veritable magpie, attracted by the multicoloured hues of flashing lights and even flashier baubles, then this is for you. Blues, purples and pinks may not be traditional but they are fun and can look stylish. White Christmas trees, neon baubles and garish TOP RIGHT Blitzen baubles, £8 for three, Habitat (0844 499 1111; www.habitat.co.uk THIS IMAGE This neon nativity set will brighten up your home. From £8, all Sainsbury’s (www.sainsburys.co.uk)

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decorations? Bring it on. For this is not about matching but clashing – have fun and go wild. Suzanne Cooper, owner of gift boutique The Parsley Pot in Bury St Edmunds (01284 760289, www.theparsleypot.com) believes a colourful home equals the warmest welcome at this time of year. “Bright lights and zany colours exude an air of excitement and give a fairy-tale feel to your home. For a more streamlined approach, simply choose a palette of two shades – such as red and white, pink and purple or blue and silver. Then create a wonderful welcome for Christmas guests and serve treats on Emma Bridgewater’s colourful pottery.” Inspired by British traditions are the must-have decorations available from the London Transport Museum (www. ltmuseumshop.co.uk). Christmas trees, stars and glass baubles are made out of the green, red and black material taken from the old District Line moquette seat covers. Genius! When it comes to Christmas décor, Gisela Graham is the reigning queen. Her extensive range of products for Christmas covers every theme you can think of, but most charming of all are her pretty-coloured fairies – such as the Cotton Reel Fairy and the Highland Forest Fairy (020 7708 6396, www.giselagraham.co.uk). Meanwhile, perfect for adding to your basket is an item or two from Sainsbury’s Neon Christmas collection (www.sainsburys.co.uk). Finally, why not continue the colour theme on your dining table? Carluccio’s pretty Frutta di Marzapane baskets and Fiocchi di Neve look stunning set in glass bowls as a centrepiece (www.carluccios.com).

ABOVE Traditional and modern decorations abound at Homesense. Baubles £2.99 (01923 473561; www. homesense.com)

3 2

1, 2 & 3 A warm festive welcome at Bury’s The Parsley Pot: 1. Felt robin, £9.99, 2. Emma Bridgewater mug, £19.95 and Emma Bridgewater Mince Pie plate, £19.95. (01284 760289; www.theparsleypot.com)

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interiors

OPULENT WHITES “Doing a festive decor ‘whiteout’ is the simplest way to suit the tastes of everyone in your household whilst maintaining a coherent aesthetic,” says Linda Holmes, creative director of Lux Deco, a luxury website specialising in curated and exclusive home brands (www.luxdeco.com). “On the one hand, it’s evocative of traditional snowy days and frosty winter scenes; on the other, it’s a brilliantly purist look teeming with modern elegance.” While the all-white look may be too disciplined for those tied to the allure of colourful chintz, it is undoubtedly one of the most chic. Master of the style is, of course, The White Company (0844 736 4222, www.thewhitecompany.com), whose Christmas collection this year includes a covetable array of silvered candlesticks, white stars and diamond orbs. To glam up the all-white look and avoid it looking too stark, add a few hits of sparkle and shine with crystal accessories and silver accents, such as the decorations available from the Winter Palace collection at Joanna Wood (020 7730 5064, www. joannawood.co.uk). Inspired by the romance of a luxurious ice palace, the interior designer agrees it is a stunning look for Christmas. “This theme plays on the romance and glamour of winter with references to ice tones and plenty of glitter,” Joanna Wood reveals. “Start with your base decorations in silver, white and neutral tones. Once happy with the spread of your base add the finishing touches with glitter, diamonds and larger decorations.” Look for affordable items, such as paper stars and guiding star Mix bold shapes with your white accessories. £11.95, Rigby & Mac (020 8761 1011; www.rigbyandmac.com)

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ABOVE Stock up on decorations at Rigby & Mac, such as these white origami fairy lights. £36 (020 8761 1011; www.rigbyandmac.com) RIGHT A selection of contemporary festive . accessories from Habitat, starting at £7 (00844 499 1111; www.habitat.co.uk) BELOW How to do Christmas elegantly. Accessories from £6, The White Company (0844 736 4222; www.thewhitecompany.com)

origami angel lights (both available at Rigby & Mac, 020 8761 1011, www. rigbyandmac.com), and bedeck surfaces with white fairy lights and softly lit church candles. Continue the theme in the bedrooms by making up beds in soft white linens, cosied up with fur throws and dreamy blankets. Check out Bedeck’s Tranquility and Dawn ranges for inspiration (0845 603 0861, www.bedeck.com). Lastly, don’t forget that your dining table can also be a highlight by using allwhite crockery, fine linens, white flowers and accessories. Habitat’s Scandinavianinspired crockery is perfect for the big day – and, best of all, you can continue to use them all year round (0844 499 1111, www.habitat.co.uk).

all that glitters Take a look at the offerings from The White Company for its chic take on Christmas. Decorations from £4 (0844 736 4222; www. thewhitecompany.com)

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interiors

below The Rufus range for Christmas includes pine cone candles, wooden doves and rustic tableware. From £2, Habitat (0844 499 1111; www.habitat.co.uk)

ABOVE We Heart Christmas. Neptune Design Centre, based in Bury, have a covetable range of homespun decorations such as this set of three twig hearts, from £12 (01284 731025; www.neptuneburystedmunds.com)

RUSTIC CHIC From carved wooden hearts to roughhewn wreaths, hand-painted animal cutouts to natural living garlands, the rustic look has never been so widespread or so popular, with a multitude of goodies to be found up and down the high street. Inspired by traditional, outdoorsy motifs and crafts of old, the homespun look is one that will add heart to your home. Tartan accessories – think rugs, cushions and even crockery, as seen at Johnston’s of Elgin (01343 554 040, www. johnstonscashmere.com) – add warmth, texture and bring a seasonal Scottish feel. Traditional-style decorations, made in tin, felt and wood, lend a native folk quality, inspired by a Nordic sensibility. Source yours at Sainsbury’s and Habitat

ABOVE Less is more at local boutique Kendall & Ko. Rustic jar with heart, £8.50 (01284 749745, www.kendallandkoltd.com)

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and check out homeware shop Swanky Maison, which champions the best of British design, for an eclectic mix of rustic gems (www.swankymaison.com). “At Swanky Maison we love the charm of the rustic chic Christmas style,” says Emma Sharman, director. “Our British designers mix fabrics, such as felt and linen, for simplistic, yet striking, homespun designs.” Local home emporium Neptune Design Centre (01284 731025, www. neptuneburystedmunds.com) is a wonderful place to find some unusual additions. Fir cone heart wreaths, linen hanging decorations and twig hearts are just some of the goodies which complement their range of furniture and kitchens. For a sophisticated take on the Nordic theme, check out Nina’s House, a just-opened store on London’s King’s Road (020 7751 5827, www. ninashouse.com). Founded by interior designer Nina Bigbie, it is a one-stop shop for unusual crafted items, sourced and edited by Nina. “The Nordic look is simple yet stylish,” she agrees. “I would recommend wintry cushions, such as the range by Nord, furry Gstaad stools for that warm ski-chalet feel and a single stunning decorative piece in gold or silver, by Clare Malet designs.” Meanwhile at luxury lifestyle boutique Kendall & Ko in Bury St Edmunds (01284 749745, www.kendallandkoltd. co.uk), owner Kendall Banks Browne agrees that the nordic twist on the rustic look is one of the most popular this year. “It’s all about adding your own personality, though,” she says. “This look

ABOVE Luxury partridge and pear crackers are handmade in Dorset and have a quirky British sensibility. £55 for a box of six, Thornback & Peel (0207 242 7478; www. thornbackandpeel.co.uk) LEFT Felt angel, £2 – Sainsbury’s (www. sainsburys.co.uk)

is warm and cosy and can be further enhanced with spiced, scented candles, roaring fires and lanterns. Wooden accessories, hessian sacks and tin decorations are all ways to keep the look authentic. If you commit to the look and don’t mix and match with glitzier baubles, it will be really effective. Less is more.” At Thornback and Peel (www. thornbackandpeel.co.uk) a contemporary twist on traditional outdoorsy motifs can be seen, with quirky homewares inspired by an eclectic mixture of Victoriana, natural imagery and garden emblems, with a dash of British humour.

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interiors

above Lights £20; decorations from £2.50; cake stand £25; all John Lewis (08456 049049; www. Wjohnlewis.com) right You don’t have to go far to achieve a gilt on gilt festive theme; add a touch of sparkle to your basket at Sainsbury’s. From £1.50 (www.sainsburys.co.uk)

GLITZ AND GLITTER Christmas is the best excuse there is to break out the bling. Mix sparkly, shiny and matte accents to help create balance and texture. Branch out to the rest of your home and achieve a wintry glam feel BELOW stock up on a wide selection of decor at Marlows Garden Centre (01284 763155; www.marlowsgardencentre.co.uk)

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with crystal-embellished cushions, shimmery throws and gilt fabrics. Voyage Decoration’s Enchanted Forest collection includes a range of accessories (0141 641 1700, www.voyagedecoration.com). Another way to add glitz in a stylish way is to concentrate it to one or two showstopping arrangements, dotted around the home. It translates the style but also keeps the decorative elements simple and chic. Fill a glass hurricane bowl, or a group of apothecary jars of varying heights, with an assortment of sparkly holiday ornaments, for instance, and then surround it with twinkling lights, an abundance of tinsel or even feathers. Interior designer Joanna Wood explains: “Christmas tables deserve a huge centrepiece. Be creative and use apples and pears, sprayed gold or silver; they will last the whole festive duration. You can also make a simple yet stylish tree topper out of willow branches – spray them white with added glitter. And for impact on a big tree, incorporate fairy lights into it.” A perfect place to source new glittery additions is Bury St Edmunds’ Marlows

fabrics The Enchanted Forest collection from Lights £20; Voyage Decoration, from £37.50 (0141 641 1700; decorations www.voyagedecoration.com) from £2.50; cake stand £25; all John Lewis (08456 049049; www.johnlewis. com)

Home and Garden Centre (01284 763155, www.marlowsgardencentre.co.uk). Their Christmas coordinator Karen Gould believes a touch of glitter is the ultimate way to see in the new year. “Bring together a vivid assortment of inspiring colours, patterns and textures,” she advises. “There’s nothing better than sequins, feathers and glitter to spell out celebration.” Happy holidays!

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GIFT GUIDE

6 8

For her 3

Gorgeous gifts fo

r someone specia

l from our local

independent sho

5 3

6 7

1. Roberts Revival DAB in Bramble £199.95 Sneezums 2. Missoma Astra pendant £175 Thurlow Champness 3. Olivia Burton Oversize Dial Butterfly Watch £95 Javelin 4. Muse portraits, portrait and pamper experience, from £95 www.theinspirationisyou.co.uk 5. Lampe Berger limited edition home fragrance gift set £38 Buy the Light 6. Ted Baker Varka Umbrella £29 Javelin 7. Cath Kidston, Big Spot Medium Baking Gift Set £30 Parsley Pot 8. Vintage circular cluster ring, 0.85ct £4,425 Thurlow Champness 9. Pure dreams hamper £24.50 Elveden Estate

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8 FOR HIM

FOR HER

For him

1. Ralph Lauren Khaki Canvas Messenger Bag £299 Six Whiting Street 2. Barbour Crieff Cap £34.95 Aubyn Davies 3. Ralph Lauren Brown pebbled leather iPad case £110 Six Whiting Street 4. Barbour Country Plaid Scarf £34.95 Aubyn Davies 5. Gold Scarab Beetle Cufflinks £75 Six Whiting Street 6. Mondaine watch £159 Thurlow Champness 7. Gift hamper of Belgian Christmas beers, small £26.95, medium £38.50, large £55, Beautiful Beers 8. Ted Baker Shoe Shine Kit £40 Javelin

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GIFT GUIDE

1 4

6 8

2 5

For kids

3 7

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FOR HOME

FOR KIDS

2 1. Mayoral newborn shoes £13.99 Nino’s 2. Classic pedal car £155 Bacton Bears 3. Steiff Charly Bear with suitcase £42 Bacton Bears 4. Spaceboy Children’s Cup £3.50 Sunrise 5. Mayoral newborn booties £10.50 Nino’s 6. Pebble fair trade crochet Santa rattle £12 Raspberry Rascals 7. Melissa and Doug Chomp and Clack Alligator £30 Raspberry Rascals 8. Knight push along £9.50 Parsley Pot 9. Manhattan Toy roll along bear shape sorter £17 Raspberry Rascals 10. Jellycat Bambina Bunny £13 Parsley Pot 11. Wooden knights and dragons skittles £19.99 Parsley Pot

For home

1. Christmas Carnival cake decorations £9.50 Sunrise 2. Christmas Carnival three tins £15 Sunrise 3. MIHO Bird House, Romantic £30 Sunrise 4. Gisela Graham tea light santa £14.99 Quest 5. Fair to Trade baubles from £2.65 St Edmundsbury Cathedral Shop

SHOP LOCAL

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THE BUNBURY ARMS

“eat, drink, be merry” Book your family or staff Christmas party at the Bunbury Arms today.

THE BUNBURY ARMS Ixworth Rd, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP31 2NX 01359 231253

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FASHION

FOR HER

BELLEROSE MEJOR OVERSIZED BRIGHT KNIT £249 ANNA CLOTHING, HATTER STREET

FRENCH CONNECTION CORA DEVORE HALTER MAXI DRESS £180 JAVELIN, ABBEYGATE STREET

FEVER DESIGNS HAMPSHIRE DRESS NOW £40 SUNRISE, ST JOHN’S STREET

Picks from the

SANDWICH CLOTHING SCARF £27 PAUL STEPHENS, THE TRAVERSE

INDIES

This month’s top styles from some of our favourite local independent fashion boutiques FOR HIM ACNE LIOS RIB KNIT CHAMPAGNE £289 ANNA CLOTHING, HATTER STREET

MINIMUM, JAN CHECKED PADDED GILET £110 SIX WHITING STREET, WHITING STREET

UGG NOIRA IN BROWNSTONE £235 SCARLET SHOES, THE TRAVERSE

FRENCH CONNECTION BLOUSY BLOOM FLARED DRESS £130 JAVELIN, ABBEYGATE STREET

TRICKER'S BURGUNDY 'STOW' DERBY BOOTS £365 SIX WHITING STREET, WHITING STREET

DR. MARTENS AIMILIE BOOTS £135 SUNRISE, ST JOHN’S STREET

NORSE PROJECTS BIRNIR FAIRISLE GREY JUMPER £159 SIX WHITING STREET, WHITING STREET

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IMAGE COURTESY OF MISS SELFRIDGE

FASHION

PartyTIME

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FASHION CHRISTMAS JUMPER £20 TU AT SAINSBURY’S, WWW.SAINSBURYS.CO.UK

’Tis the season for some serious glitz and glamour and, as ever, the high street is overflowing with gorgeous gowns and showstopping party dresses which are guaranteed to make you the centre of attention this party season. Regardless of whatever else fashion has been doing during the course of the year, sequins are a seasonal staple come Christmastime. Our pick of the glittery bunch includes this cute short number from Mango and House of Fraser’s uber sophisticated draped pencil dress. Fancy a bit of Gatsby glam? Miss Selfridge have a range of 1920s-inspired frocks – ideal for those who love a vintage vibe.

KNITTED FLUFFY SNOW JUMPER £42 TOPSHOP, ARC, BURY ST EDMUNDS MANGO EMBELLISHED DRESS NOW £80.50 ASOS, WWW.ASOS.COM

BEADED FISHTAIL MAXI DRESS £115 MISS SELFRIDGE, DEBENHAMS, ARC, BURY ST EDMUNDS

RED HERRING REINDEER JUMPER £35 DEBENHAMS, ARC, BURY ST EDMUNDS

PRINCIPLES BY BEN DE LISI SEQUIN DRESS NOW £67.50 DEBENHAMS, ARC, BURY ST EDMUNDS

BEAD SATIN SHIFT DRESS £180 TOPSHOP, ARC, BURY ST EDMUNDS

DRESS NOW £87 SHRUG NOW £53.40 EARRINGS £18 NECKLACE £24 BOTH BY MIKEY, ALL AVAILABLE AT HOUSE OF FRASER

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FLOWER FLUFF PROM DRESS £75 TOPSHOP, ARC, BURY ST EDMUNDS

BELLFIELD CHRISTMAS JUMPER WITH STAG PRINT AND PATTERNED SLEEVES £38 ASOS, WWW.ASOS.COM

Christmas

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FASHION

Winter BRIGHTS

Dark skies needn’t mean you need to wear darker colours. Boys, beat the winter blues with a burst of colour in your wardrobe FAIRISLE SNOWFLAKE JUMPER £30 TOPMAN

JACQUARD KNIT SWEATER £45.99 ZARA JUMPER £15 JOGGERS £9 PRIMARK

CARHARTT ACRYLIC WATCH BEANIE HAT £20 ASOS GLEN LOSSIE TARTAN LAMBSWOOL SCARF £16 ASOS RAINS LONG JACKET £85 ASOS

FRANKIE BROGUE £69.99 OFFICE

NORSE PROJECTS ELKA CLASSIC JACKET £135 DOGFISH

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RED HERRING SCARF NOW £18.75 DEBENHAMS

RED HERRING HAT NOW £12 DEBENHAMS

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Beauty

BEAUTY

NEWS

SK CLINIC XMAS PARTY

NEW OPENING

THE YELLOW HOUSE

It’s December and the party season is upon us! The lovely lot at SK Clinic are getting started early as they host their Christmas Party on 5 December (6-9pm). Come along for an evening of everything beauty, with a splash of champagne and some canapés. SK is also offering one free 15-minute treatment per person at the party (must be booked in advance) and there are six different treatments to choose from. Skincare specialists and teeth whitening experts, amongst others, will give demonstrations and mini presentations to help you get clued up on what treatments are available and how it all works. There will be discounts available on the night too and everyone will leave with an SK goody bag. www.skclinic.co.uk

A new hair and beauty salon, The Yellow House, has opened up on Kings Road in Bury, set up by partners Vicky Halls, Lisa Dugan and Claire Pickering, who between them have more than 30 years of experience in the beauty industry. The three women had all previously worked together at The Self Centre and decided to merge their businesses and take on a new challenge. “It has been a really great move coming here. We want to give our clients a really nice experience, coming somewhere with a warm and friendly atmosphere,” says Vicky. “Customer experience is the focus at this salon, as the team goes the extra mile, with small touches to make it a really personal experience.” They look set to be off to a flying start. The building, a gorgeous sunshiney yellow hue, is now a beauty and hair emporium, offering a wide range of bespoke treatments tailored to your specific needs. As well as getting your hair cut and coloured by experienced stylists, you can enjoy a range of beauty treatments including OPI manicures, gel nails, brow tinting and shaping, massages, facials and more – you can even book in a session at the ‘skin bar’ and get a one-to-one consultation on different products and how best to use them. The Yellow House also stocks top-quality brands such as Dermalogica, Eve Taylor, Sienna X, OPI, Wella and Tigi in the salon, with a view to also selling these on their website soon. The salon is open 9am-7pm Monday-Friday and 9am-4pm on Saturdays. www.theyellowhouse-salon.co.uk

BEDFORD LODGE One of the UK’s leading medical aesthetic doctors, Dr Mervyn Patterson, is dropping in to the Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel on 5 December (9am-5pm) for the Epionce event. Epionce is a skincare line that works with the skin’s natural systems to provide an enhanced and healthy appearance, so if you have ever wondered how IPL hair removal works, or what the true benefits of medical microdermabrasion are, then why not book a personal consultation with Dr Patterson? Consultations must be booked in advance through the spa. www.bedfordlodgehotelspa.co.uk

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Image courtesy of MAC

BEAUTY

Top cheat tip: For those who struggle with blending eyeshadows for a smoky look, we’ve found that Lord & Berry’s Kajal Eyeliner Stick is quick and easy to slick on and smudge with results that’ll last all night (£12, www.asos.com).

WORDS DAISY DICKINSON & CHARLOTTE GRIFFITHS

PULLING OFF THE

perfect party look ’Tis the season for high glamour looks, and we’ve pulled together our favourite products that are perfect for parties, or for stashing in a special someone’s stocking…

Smoky sensation The smoky eye is a classic look that’s perfect for Christmas glamour. The trick is to take your time using a paler shade as a base, working the colour across to the inner corner, and then use a darker shade blended into the outer eyelid and crease. Benecos’ natural Quattro Eyeshadow palette in ‘Beautiful Eyes’ (£6.95, www. benecos.co.uk) contains four shades that are perfect for the job. Sweep the dusky pink eyeshadow over the entire eyelid and create a kitten flick using the purple shade at the outer corner. Dampen an eyeshadow brush and apply the chocolate eyeshadow to your upper and lower lash line to achieve deeper definition. For a beautifully frosted look and something we’d love to see in our own Christmas stockings (hint hint!), MAC’s Divine Night Mineralize Eye Shadows (£19) are available in a range of pretty pearly shades. A thin line of glitter eyeliner above the darker line is a neat way to add extra sparkle: these Collection Glam Crystal liners are perfect (£2.99, Superdrug).

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25/11/13 12:19:40

BEAUTY

Festive fingertips Pulling off the perfect Xmas office party outfit is often the hottest topic of conversation during the months leading up to the event. But don’t forget the details: make sure your nails are noticed with one of Mavala’s six jewel collection nail polishes (£4.50, John Lewis) – we love the thick glitter and hard-wearing coverage. For a high street bargain pop into Primark and treat yourself to a glitter polish by Angelica for only £2.75 with seriously amazing coverage! Need something a little more subtle? Try MAC’s new metallic shade Military: a matte black with silver frost which looks perfect after only one coat. If you’re short for time, try these Ted Baker nail wraps, or artificial nails. They’re super quick to apply and are available in the designer’s trademark beautiful patterns (from £7.50, Boots).

Glow all night For a glow that stays with you into the wee hours, it’s all about priming your skin! Try switching your usual primer with one that offers a little shimmer. Arbonne’s Sheer Glow Highlighter (£31, www.arbonneinternational.co.uk) can be used under or over make-up for a dewy look, then finish off with MAC’s Mineralize Skinfinish in ‘Centre of Attention’ (£22, John Lewis).

Party pout Tradition would dictate that you choose between a strong lip or strong eye, but for the festive season we say go for broke – as long as you choose complementary colours, there’s no reason why you can’t go heavy on both. A glossy finish always looks great for a party so try Sleek’s gloss (£4.99, Superdrug) which will give your lips colour without breaking the bank.

On the lash We love a good pair of false eyelashes: they can instantly transform a look and give you a more wide-awake appearance. We’ve recently discovered the brand Shavata who have a fab range of City lashes, (£8, www.shavata.co.uk) each named after a city in the UK; how could we resist the beautiful Cambridge lashes! For something a little more daring, how about Eylure’s Katy Perry Showtime Lashes (£7.99, www.asos.com) or Bourjois’ Miss Couture lashes (£11.99, Superdrug). Mascara-wise, we’re loving Eye of Horus’s goddess mascara (£20.40, www.eyeofhorus.uk.com). No time for falsies? Pop your own mascara into a cup of hot water for a few minutes – this will soften the formula allowing you to coat every single lash individually.

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Drop a dress size by Christmas... Our Doctors will help you: Lose those unwanted pounds Look and feel amazing educe your calorie intake with the help R of appetite suppressants if appropriate Specialising in weight loss and weight management for both men and women, Weight Medics offer a private and discreet way in which to seek advice and address your weight issues. There are no group sessions to tackle; instead, you will have a one to one programme with your patient care manager and resident doctor who are solely there to support you through your journey to the new you. Call today for more information on:

01284 488056 This is what our patients say about us...

15/17 Eastgate Street (above Fired Earth) Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP32 7BD

weightmedics.indd 1

www.weightmedics.co.uk 25/11/13 16:12:38

WELLNESS

WELLBEING WISDOM

Q A

Carole Baker from the self centre answers your health and wellness questions Q: I’m expecting a baby in three months and (despite everyone telling me it’s going to be fine!) completely stressed about the idea of actually giving birth. Do you have any recommendations to help keep me calm? A: It is going to be fine! Yes there are lots of things you can do. Firstly remember that birth is a completely natural process that’s been going on forever and your body does know what it’s doing. To assist you in keeping calm I would recommend a hypnobirthing programme – it not only includes, but relies on, the inclusion of the birthing partner (whether male, female, partner, friend or family member). This shared experience depends very much on teamwork and reminds all involved that informing and preparing the birthing partner is incredibly important to give them a role in the birth – but also to help them overcome their fears and doubts, which can affect the mother-to-be. You will learn various techniques that will help to ensure a relaxed birth (with flexibility to cover any possible outcome and potential changes to the birth plan). These include: • Learning self-hypnosis • Learning about discomfort management with the help of hypnosis and anaesthesia (numbing) techniques • Immediate bonding with your baby and feeling really good • Fast and easy recovery • Ego boosting and self-conﬁdence after the birth I would also recommend some antenatal yoga classes – in them we focus on physically preparing the body for an easy birth, opening up tight hips and learning breathing and relaxation techniques to assist you in labour. It’s also a chance to build long-lasting friendships

you could work on at home? If you invest an hour of your time in a private session you can go home with a bespoke programme of postures to try and you can do them in front of the TV in just half an hour a day. You could of course try a DVD programme or go online and sign up for live classes and training sessions. There is also a desk yoga app and video available for you to download and then there is no excuse as you can do your exercise at your desk! Ideally of course you would benefit from regularly attending a class or using a gym or personal trainer. You will find the time that you invest in looking after yourself and exercising will actually reap greater benefits in reduced sickness and injuries and will improve your overall performance and energy levels in many activities. with women in a similar position to you, where you can share feelings and support each other. There are several dietary changes you can make to keep you calm: drinking chamomile tea; ensuring you have the right level of B vitamins in your diet; and investigating the benefits of herbs and aromatherapy oils such as lavender. You can also purchase a homeopathic birth kit which is full to the brim with useful remedies for a pain-free and calm birth. Q: I really struggle to find the time to exercise. What would your recommendations be for someone who wants to get fit but has very little free time? A: It’s a question of prioritising what is most important to you really! In my view ‘health is our greatest wealth’, so what you feed yourself and how you exercise and look after your physical and emotional health should be something you want to find the time for. How about a personalised yoga or pilates programme

Learn more about the self centre at www.the-self-centre.co.uk

Do you have a question for our wellness expert? Email nicolafoley@bright-publishing.com

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MOTORING WORDS SUE BAKER

2014: ONES TO WATCH

Sue Baker presents a round-up of the new engines that’ll be rolling round for 2014, so if you’re on the lookout for a new motor, make it one of these

Dark winter days make driving seem more of a chore than a pleasure, but not for long. From December 21st and the winter solstice, the hours of sunlight start lengthening again, and the spring rejuvenation of motoring enjoyment will not seem so far off. During 2013 there has been an avalanche of new models from the motor industry, and many more are on the way in the months ahead. Here are some of the interesting newcomers imminently available if a new car is on your New Year horizon.

ark winter days make driving seem more of a chore than a pleasure, but not for long. From 21 December and the winter solstice, the hours of sunlight start lengthening again, and the spring rejuvenation of motoring enjoyment will not seem so far off. During 2013 there has been an avalanche of new models from the motor industry, and many more are on the way in the months ahead. Here are some of the interesting newcomers imminently available if a new car is on your new year horizon.

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AUDI A3 CABRIOLET Next summer seems a long way off, so why be thinking about a convertible? Because a modern drop-top like this latest Audi A3 Cabriolet is immensely stylish and practical all year round. This car is the fourth model in Audi’s rapidly growing new A3 range, joining the three-door hatchback, fivedoor fastback and four-door saloon. Unlike many modern coupe-cabriolets with folding steel roofs, it has a traditional fabric roof to save weight and boot space, but it is multi-layered for warmth and security. It is also quick going up and down, taking just 18 seconds to open, which can be done on the move at up to 31mph.

WHAT IS IT? A glamour drop-top that is as efficiently practical as it is pretty ON THE ROAD: April PERFECT FOR: Extroverts who enjoy fresh air driving PRICE: from £25,790 ENGINES: 1.4 petrol, 2.0 diesel

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MOTORING

MAZDA 3 Unless you speak Japanese you probably won’t understand ‘Jinba Ittai’. It means ‘horse and rider as one’, and it is a philosophy that Mazda has used to design its new Mazda3 with as near-perfect a driving position as its engineers could devise. The car has a slightly stretched body and sits on a longer wheelbase than the previous model, and has been given a range of fuel-saving ‘SkyActiv’ technologies to make it as economical as possible. It comes in both five-door hatchback and four-door saloon body styles, with both six-speed manual and auto gearboxes, and it targets rivals such as the Volkswagen Golf. WHAT IS IT? A slightly stretched, spruced-up and more frugal update of Mazda’s most popular car ON THE ROAD: January PERFECT FOR: Looking smart for going places without using too much fuel PRICE: from £16,695 ENGINES: 1.5 and 2.0 litre petrol, 2.2 litre diesel

MINI HATCHBACK No stereotype of Britishness was left unexplored at the unveiling of the new, third generation BMW-owned MINI. On sale next spring, the new car is four inches longer and fractionally taller than the outgoing model. The headlights are larger modern LEDs, the front grille is more pronounced to give it a slightly pouty look, the boot has been given a welcome increase in size, and a new engine range includes three-cylinder units. The cabin has been restyled with some old flaws improved: the speedo is now in front of the driver, and the window switches are now where they should be, on the doors. Both used to be in the centre of the dash. WHAT IS IT? BMW’s MINI reborn on a slightly bigger scale, 12 years on from the first one ON THE ROAD: Next spring PERFECT FOR: City types, suburbanites and those who want a small (ish) car with big car features PRICE: from £15,300, lower price versions coming later in 2014 ENGINES: 1.5 petrol and 1.5 diesel

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25/11/13 17:59:13

MOTORING

SKODA YETI When the Skoda Yeti first appeared in 2009, few could have predicted how successful it would be. Its boxy silhouette made a red one reminiscent of Postman Pat’s van, and it came from the Czech car maker once derided in endless jokes. But what a hit the Yeti has been. Owners love it and it has built a strong reputation on

being immensely practical and having excellent driving dynamics. Now here comes a new Yeti, having undergone a mid-life facelift that refreshes its styling and upgrades the interior. It may still look a bit like a Tonka toy, but the chunky Skoda is a car you have to drive to appreciate just how good it is.

WHAT IS IT? The most surprising car on the road, with boxy looks but brilliant to drive PERFECT FOR: Anyone who counts superb practicality and driving pleasure above image ON THE ROAD: February PRICE: from £16,600 ENGINES: 1.2 and 1.8 litre petrol, 1.6 and 2.0 litre diesel

BMW X5 A well-established favourite on the luxury 4x4 scene, the BMW X5 is now freshly updated in a new-generation vehicle. It has a new body with changes that include revised front-end styling, and the cabin has been made a little roomier and even more comfortable. Mechanical changes have brought improvements WHAT IS IT? An upper-crust 4x4 that is a big smoothie on the road and modestly capable off-road ON THE ROAD: Now PERFECT FOR: Sporty urbanites who aspire to a country lifestyle PRICE: from £46,525 ENGINES: 2.0 and 3.0 litre diesel 4.4 litre petrol

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to fuel economy and CO2 output, and for those who do not really need a 4x4 and prefer lower fuel bills there is a rearwheel drive version. As usual with BMW the model change is evolutionary rather than revolutionary. So the new X5 does not looks dramatically different, but the new nose is the giveaway that this is the third generation of the big BMW built in South Carolina, USA.

SUZUKI SX4 S-CROSS A new addition to the Suzuki car range this autumn is the company’s perky SX4 S-Cross, one of a growing breed of vehicle that combines the friendly practicality of family hatchback with the chunky looks of a 4x4 – even though it may not be one. With seats for five and a roomy 430-litre boot, the S-Cross is good to drive and comes with a fair level of standard equipment, including cruise control, reclining rear seats, fuel-saving stopstart technology, a green-encouraging gear-shift indicator and tyre-pressure monitor. The range-topping 1.6-litre diesel SZS version at £23,549 has standard satnav, a rear-view camera and full-length panoramic sunroof – good for scooping in lots of light on these dark winter days. WHAT IS IT? A smart ‘crossover’ car that looks like a 4x4 even though it may not be one ON THE ROAD: Now PERFECT FOR: The school run or weekend trips for families with a taste for rugged leisure activities PRICE: from £15,995, plus £1,800 for Allgrip 4x4 on some versions ENGINES: 1.6 petrol, 1.6 diesel

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PETS

S R E MP

s a m t s i r h C G uide G ift

SCA

ROGER ROBIN MAXI £12.59 ROSEWOOD PET PRODUCTS CHRISTMAS CRACKERS, THREE VARIETIES FROM £3.89 BILLY + MARGOT

DOODLE SHOPPER £37

CAT CATCH £21.99 NORTHMATE

MOOSE JUMPERS, AVAILABLE IN FOUR SIZES FROM £11

CAT IT SENSES FROM £14.79

CHRISTMAS STOCKING £5.99 BETTY MILLER

CHRISTMAS VELVET RIBBONS & BELLS COLLARS, AVAILABLE IN TWO SIZES, FROM £4.49

STYLISH COLLARS, AVAILABLE IN FOUR SIZES FROM £16 OSCAR & HOOCH

FESTIVE SWEATER CAPES FROM £7 ROSEWOOD PET PRODUCTS

SAVANNAH LUXURY DOG DINERS, AVAILABLE IN THREE SIZES FROM £30

All available from Scampers – Northfield Crossroads, A142 Soham bypass, Soham, Ely, Cambs CB7 5UF, 01353 720431, www.scampers.co.uk

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PETS

A Winter Wonderland

FOR YOU AND YOUR PETS Dark, gloomy days are just as depressing for your pets, so make sure you do all you can to keep them happy in winter, says Alex Wylie from Eastgate Vets

he lack of daylight hours in winter causes a downturn in many people’s moods. According to a survey by the PDSA (a leading veterinary charity) a similar effect is often seen in our pets. What better way is there to beat the winter blues for all of us, therefore, than by spending time with our pets? Here are our top tips to help you and your animals have a wonderful winter. 1) GET OUTSIDE The depression we see in our dogs may just be because we aren’t taking them out as often. It is great for all of us to get out and exercise, but as daylight hours are limited, find places to safely walk your dog at night. Many people drive to the forest

in summer but don’t consider travelling into town to walk their dog through the town centre at night, so give it a try. Glow in the dark collars, leads and tags all help to ensure your safety if you are walking in the dark.

2) TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SUNSHINE When it is sunny, make sure you go out in it. Sunshine coming through the window may make us feel happier, but only sunshine on our skin produces vital vitamin D. It’s the same for animals. 3) PLAY GAMES INSIDE Playing a game of hide and seek with food or maybe having your dog retrieve (soft) toys, and letting your cat chase an object on a string (for example a fishing toy) are just some suggestions of fun games. 4) STROKE YOUR PET Research has proven that the act of petting an animal makes us feel better. Your pet will also benefit from the increased attention he or she receives.

5) CHANGE HOW MUCH YOUR PET EATS In general a consistent diet is best for your pet. However, over winter, you may need to consider alterations. If your pet is less active you will need to reduce their portion sizes. If, however, your pet is exercising a lot during winter they may require more calories than usual. Have your pet regularly weighed at the vets and ask the nurses for dietary advice. 6) TALK TO YOUR PET Your pet will be glad to hear your voice, no matter what you are saying. Many animals pick up on your mood, so if you are feeling sad your animal friend will probably try to cheer you up with a tail wag or a purr. 7) REWARD YOUR PET It is easy for both you and your pet to get grumpy during the darker days. To counteract this, do some obedience training with your pet. Teach them new commands and reward them when they comply with your requests. This will make you proud and them more confident. Did you know that some cats can be trained easily? Try teaching your cat to ‘sit’ and give a high five. Our feline companions are very good at training us humans so put the shoe on the other paw! 8) GO VISITING Take your dog to a friend’s house, training classes or your nearest dog-friendly pub. You will both benefit from socialising during the darker months. 9) GO TO THE SEASIDE We are lucky to be close to both the Norfolk and Suffolk coastlines. These areas are very dog friendly. In fact you can walk your dog on more beaches in winter than summer. The gentle lapping of the sea or dramatic crashing of waves is sure to lift your mood no matter what the winter weather brings. The staff at Eastgate Vets wish you and your pets a happy and healthy Christmas and new year. Give us a smile by posting your Christmas pics at www.facebook.com/eastgatevets!

72 | Bury Edition | December 2013

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