FEBRUARY 2018 About Thetford magazine by About Thetford magazine

Circulation 12,500 copies

Issue 147 February 2018

Your Local Independent Community Magazine

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February Edition May Bring

Some Cheer

Inside this month...

a long month and it’s often January always feels like such many others I’ve spent a Page 5 - ELO Competition Time somewhat bleak as well. Like a bit poorly including the Page 7 - View From The Chamber fair amount of the month feeling to print which is always a Page 8 - 9 - Leaping Hare news last few days before we went Page 10 - 11 - Out And About Thetford bit manic at the best of times. Page 12 - Maharaha Ranjit Singh Story th’s mon this in with d ude Hopefully the positive stories incl Page 15 - CBC Power To Change bit a is ther wea the if n eve edition may lift your spirits Page 17 - Community Corner new a of have details grey and wet! This month we Page 20 - Ancient House Museum e som for s date and ssing’ service set to launch - ‘The Cro Page 21 - Thetford Past and Present a araj Mah ut abo e plac take interesting storytelling set to Page 28 - 29 - Thetford Faces rles Cha nge project at the Ranjit Singh. The Power to Cha Page 33 - Garden & Allotment Club with ngth stre to strength Burrell Centre is going from Page 35 - BTO Column d. che laun now n paig cam details of the ‘sponsor a chair’ Page 38 - Halcyon Days Skin Advice who e th is Paul Stancliff Our ‘Thetford Face’ for the mon Page 40 - 41 - ‘Tricky Period’ At Library lly. loca k from his wor many readers may recognise Page 42 - Ask The Undertaker read the ‘View from the Page 45 - TADDS Update Lastly, do take some time to page 7. Many readers will Page 47 - Tax Clinic By Colin Chamber’ article this month on plans for our community Page 49 - Enterprise For Young People be aware of the housing growth iew’ being conducted Page 52 - Fitness Column By Richard Rev nce and a ‘Community Governa dents an opportunity to Page 54 - Parkrunner Of The Month by Breckland Council gives resi ndaries linked to this. comment on local Council bou Front cover and image above1of08/11/2017 Thetford Players’ LJ Taxis 1/8 AD.qxp_Layout 15:51 Page hes, Terry Jermy (Editor) wis t Bes Panto (January 2018) by Maria Cooke

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E-mail address for all articles, adverts etc:aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com Contact us: 075404 63662 Office Address: C/o Charles Burrell Centre, Staniforth Road, IP24 3LH Publisher; In And About Thetford Ltd, C/o Charles Burrell Centre, Staniforth Road, Thetford IP24 3LH Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of information contained within this magazine, the publishers take no responsibility for the accuracy of statements made by its contributors, in any advertisements or for any loss arising from non-publication of any advertisement. Reproduction of any part of this publication without permission of the publishers is strictly forbidden. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher

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‘The Crossing’ Set To Launch Access Community Trust are delighted to announce an exciting new service operating in Thetford. ‘The Crossing’ which is based at Tanner Street (above Tanner street pharmacy) is offering a wide range of services and projects that seek to support and uplift the community in a number of ways. We currently have various projects operating from The Crossing which include Recovery (substance misuse), education, wellbeing, and access to employment. We are in the process of trialling a six week timetable of events which encompass our project initiatives whilst promoting social inclusion and community cohesion.

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Our community space has a range of facilities - we offer free laptop use for job searching, checking emails or even catching up with social media or doing a bit of shopping! This is underpinned by some of our workshops for those that need assistance with these topics, and our basic I.T skills workshop has proved very popular so far. Our new course ‘Access to work’ which starts on 1st Feb will also prove valuable if you are looking for I.T skills and job searching techniques. All our workshops and activities are free of charge. We are open from 9.30 – 4pm Monday to Friday and you are most welcome to pop up and find out more about our services. Alternatively, you can give us a call on 01842 751471 and you can also find us on Facebook - @AccessThecrossingThetford & Twitter @AccessCrossing where you can keep up to date with all our activities and events.

Visit our beautiful Show Room

Are you a member of a local group?

Unit 18 Napier Place Stephenson Way - Thetford IP24 3RL

If so, send us an email with details of your activities and we may be able to include them in future editions. The deadline for inclusion in the March 2018 edition will be the 15th February 2018 E-mail: karen@aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk

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ROLL over Beethoven because a tribute to the fantastic music of ELO are bringing their hit packed show to the Carnegie Thetford on Saturday 24 March (tickets from Leaping Hare, see page 8 for more details). ELO Encounter are one of the best loved tributes to Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra. The band puts on a dazzling performance every time they hit the stage and the show features soaring strings, striking vocal harmonies and a rocking light show. Each band member is a fantastic musician in their own right, with members having played alongside the original ELO drummer Bev Bevan no less, but they all share a love for ELO and dedicate themselves to accurately representing the band on stage. Jeff Lynne famously grabbed the coveted afternoon legend slot at Glastonbury Festival recently, to great critical and commercial acclaim. The ELO Encounter are bringing a slice of that magic to stages across the UK as part of their Blue Skies Tour. Drawing inspiration from all of ELO’s phases, from the spectacular debut single 10538 Overture to their 1981 concept album Time and beyond. They combine lights, projections, lasers and massive hits in a spectacular show that’s a treat for both your eyes and ears. Those expecting Blue Skies and Telephone Lines will not be disappointed! “Fantastic performance, I’ve never seen such a standing ovation here!” Phil Pattie, Braintree Arts Theatre Manager “Spectacular show, great friendly atmosphere from the band” “Really loved it, even my teenager was smiling!”

Competition Time! This month we have 4 tickets worth £60 to give away to ELO Encounter Thetford on Saturday 24 March. To be in with a chance of winning, just answer this question:

Who was the original ELO drummer? Send your answer by email with your name and full contact details to Leaping Hare info@leapinghare.org by Wednesday 28 February. The winner will be drawn from a hat on Friday 2 March. Normal In & About Thetford Ltd T&Cs apply. Please see our website for more details.

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‘View From The Chamber’

“The land for the the new houses that are coming on the north and north-east edges of Thetford is currently not in Thetford Parish, but in the neighbouring parishes Robert Whittaker of Croxton and Kilverstone. Breckland Council is currently running a public consultation on changing the parish boundaries so that the new houses will fall within Thetford.

This month’s ‘View From The Chamber’ looks at the Community Governance review that is currently underway. We hear from two Roberts about the plans: “Readers may have noticed that Breckland Council are carrying out a ‘community governance review’: www.breckland.gov.uk/CGR-review-2018 The website states the following: Thetford Town Council wishes to extend its boundary to include the new Sustainable Urban Extension area (SUE) - this area currently lies within the parishes of Croxton Councillor and Brettenham & Kilverstone. Robert Kybird The Town Council has also asked to increase its size from 16 to 20 councillors, to reflect the increased area. This would mean there were additional councillors in the Thetford Town Council Wards of Boudica (+1), Anne Bartholomew (+1), Castle Ward (+2). For further clarification I would make the following comments:

The main differences this change would make is that the residents in the new houses would get to elect councillors to Thetford Town Council (as opposed to electing councillors to one of the village parish councils) and they would pay the same levels of council tax as the rest of the town, with part of it going to Thetford Town Council (as opposed to paying a lower rate and none of it going to the Town). I think it will also affect where some funding for services / amenities that results from the new houses will go (to Thetford if the boundary is changed, as opposed to neighbouring parishes if not). I've been told that unless there is lots of documented public support for the boundary change, then it won't happen. So if you feel that the boundary of Thetford should be enlarged so that it includes the new housing developments, then you need to respond to the consultation. Equally if you feel that it shouldn't, then please also respond. It's important that the consultation reflects public opinion”.

1. The boundary with Kilverstone has been adjusted at least twice in recent decades in order to include within Thetford the Admirals and Cloverfields Estates. 2. Thetford Town Council has the appropriate staffing resource (which may be extended) to operate the various community facilities which will accompany the SUE (Sustainable Urban Extension).

Robert Whittaker (writing in a personal capacity) Robert is also Chairman of the Greater Thetford Development Partnership Community Sub-Group

3. Thetford Town Council respect the historic core settlements of Croxton, Kilverstone and Brettenham.

Have Your Say

4. A positive response from existing residents of Thetford would give weight to the proposals suggested”

The consultation runs until the 16th March 2018, you can add your comments by visiting: www.breckland.gov.uk/article/7478/ Thetford-Consultation

Robert Kybird, Chairman of Thetford Town Planning Committee

the

Mulberry

Open Tues - Sat from 6pm WWW.MULBERRYTHETFORD.CO.UK

Tel: 01842 824122 11 Raymond Street Thetford IP24 2EA

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NEW! Russian Card Range

Yuri Vasnetsov (1900-1973) was born in the old Russian town of Vyatka. He was a painter, illustrator, graphic artist and stage designer.

Check out our packed on line events calendar at leapinghare.org or call in for full details of these and many more events. We have tickets for all highlighted. Sat 3 Feb ABBA Tribute Night Mon 5 Feb CBC Charity Diner at the Raj Tues 6 Feb Port & Merchants Georgian K/Lynn Fri 9 Feb Ghost Walk Fri 9 Feb Case of the Officers of Excise Sat 10 Feb Guided Bird Walk Sat 10, Thur 15, Fri 16 The Story of Maharaja Ranjit Singh by storyteller Seema Anand Tues 13 Feb Anglo Saxons & Vikings His paintings feature in Tretyakov State Gallery Fri Feb 16 From Zimbabwe with Love Moscow and The State Russian Museum in Sat 17 Feb Nesting Season Session Saint-Petersburg. However, he is most famous Mon 19 Feb Kate Dimbleby Sing Your Song for his illustrations in children’s books cherished Thur 22 Feb Owls - Secrets of the Night by generations of Russians. These superb Fri 23 Feb Thetford Folk Club quality cards (we have 14 designs!) represent Sat 24 Feb Table Top Sale excellent value at £2.50 each of 5 for £10. Sat 17 March St Patrick’s Day Party NEW! Product of the Month Fri 23 March Ghost Walk Sat 24 March ELO Encounter Live Introducing our new Sat 28 Sun 29 Apr EA Game & Country Fair product of the month Fri 11 May 50 Years of Croft & Perry feature and as we’re Sat 19 May Searchers & Hollies Experience thinking Valentine’s, what could be more GoGoHares perfect than these We are really excited to be working with beautiful dual hearted Ancient House and Dad's Army Museums on gift sets from Stepping a beautiful leveret as part Stones Emporium - gift of GoGoCreate (part of wrapped, complete with tag GoGoHares 2018). ready to go for £9.95. This one is an example.

Jake’s Great Barrow Challenge Jake’s off the blocks with some amazing donations - thanks! He now has a Golden Giving page and he pops up on our website. All donations keep our shop open.

Look out for more news on what we’re up to soon!

Out and About Thetford

Wedding Fair Wows! The CBC main hall was transformed into a wedding wonderland as it hosted the second annual wedding fair. This year’s fair was organised by Nadine Easter. Featuring two fashion shows and a wealth of local businesses, there was everything you need to make your special day unique. Speaking about the event Nadine said, “Today has been a real team effort, it’s great to see everyone here and our visitors being really busy booking services and making enquiries.” Many of the businesses showcased are based in the town offering bespoke services such as Say it in Lights, who create LED lit letters or words, taking room dressing to another level. Linda Taher Silk Flowers demonstrated how they can create flower bouquets that look just like fresh flowers, with the added bonus that you can keep them after the event. Fresh flowers were presented by Peony Flowers who specialise in using locally sourced flowers and the more unusual blooms, if you’re looking for a memorable display they are definitely for you! Wedding favours and beautiful extras were in abundance at Claire’s Sweet Creations and Beca Beelittles who told us they love to create all things sweetie and pretty! Event organiser J.R Events were on hand to help with planning. Sally Lowe Photography presented beautiful wedding albums and fantastic images, and for those looking for informal memories, M.R Events brought along their pop up photobooth and accessories. Businesses based at the CBC were well represented with Old Skool Bar promoting their mobile bar, Ellie Elizabeth Bridal Boutique, Moonshine Maidens launching their prosecco horsebox service, The Wardrobe, West Brothers, Jessica Wyatt Make up and Beauty and Nadine who was offering free tasters of her wedding cake recipes. The first show of the day was organised by The Wardbrobe featuring wedding outfits for Mother of the Bride and guests. Ellie Elizabeth Bridal provided the fairytale ending with the second show featuring their beautiful gowns from well known Bridalwear designers. For more information about the exhibitors or Nadine’s cakes please call Nadine on 07745239853 or visit: www.nadinescakesandcelebrations.co.uk

Nadine from Nadine’s Cakes and Celebrations Below: Ellie Elizabeth Bridal and Say It In Lights

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Birthday Celebration Raises Money for Cancer Research

When Thetford resident Rus Webber recently celebrated his 85th birthday he decided it would be the perfect opportunity to continue raising money for CRUK. Anyone familiar with the regular stalls outside the Methodist Church will instantly recognise Rus and his wife Sue who have been busy raising money for CRUK for the past 5 years. A large group of friends joined Rus and Sue at their home where they hosted a coffee morning and a bring and buy sale, requesting donations in lieu of gifts. Friends rallied round to help and guests continued to Rus and friends at his birthday celebration arrive throughout the morning. A delighted Rus said, “I’m surprised at the number of friends who have come to join me. Birthdays seem to come round so quickly – I don’t feel much over 60! I had a serious cancer and a major operation a few years ago, so far I’m ok and I am trying to give something back to say thank you.” Each year Rus and Sue have managed to donate £3,000 by running book stalls, holding concerts at the Methodist Church and the yard sale in Monksgate. Since they started they have have raised over £10,000. Rus continued, “I’ve been to the research centre in Cambridge, it really opens your eyes and they are discovering things all the time. I also wanted to bring everyone together; it’s been lovely to see everyone.” Sue followed on, “We love having people here, they bring such happiness with them.” A grand total of £391.00 was raised, which has enabled Rus and Sue to send their first £1,000 of the year to the Cambridge research labs. Portuguese TV Puts Thetford On The Map Local businessman and newspaper editor Joao DeNoronha spent several days working with RTP (the Portuguese version of the BBC) on filming projects to promote Thetford. Many residents may not be aware of the importance of Thetford to the Portuguese community. Talking about the filming Joao said, “Many people in Portugal know about Thetford, but they don’t know what it’s actually like. They think it’s a large city like London, Birmingham or Liverpool because it is so important to our community.” Thetford was the place where the original migrant community settled. Local organisations such as Keystone Development Trust and Meta helped the community to establish itself and Thetford was promoted as a good place to live.The Portuguese community has now spread across the UK, but Thetford continues to be seen as a key place. Joao edits As Noticias (The News) a Portuguese newspaper covering British and local community news for the Portuguese community sold in 258 different locations across the UK, Jersey and Northern Ireland. Joao continued, “The Portuguese Ambassador has visited the town along with Government ministers and many other dignitaries. RTP are creating a film showing the importance of the Portuguese community in the town and how they have integrated which will be shown on prime time news. They are also creating a documentary for the international news, showing what members of the Portuguese community are doing across the world.” Local councillors and businesses have been filmed along with locations such as Ancient House Museum and St Peters Church. “This is a really important activity; it will Thetford Academy students being filmed by RTP showcase Thetford and put it on the map.” If you have an event or activity that you would like Karen to cover, please call 07540463662 or email: karen@aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

the story of Maharaja ranjit singh by storyteller seeMa anand

free eVent dates & Venues

10 february (saturday) norwich arts centre: 1-2pM 15 february (thursday) elVeden Village hall: 1-2pM 16 february (friday) thetford library: 10.30aM 16 february (friday) derehaM library: 2pM www.leapinghare.org Tel. 01842 751975. 20 King STreeT TheTford iP24 2AP

A free family interactive storytelling session with narrative specialist Seema Anand. Come and listen to the story of Maharaja Ranjit Singh the last ruler of the Punjab and father of Mahraja Duleep Singh who lived in Elveden Hall near Thetford in 1863. A storytelling session that will take you back to Punjab, North of India with costumes, props and materials from the Sikh faith. Library and has great experience in interacting through her stories with all ages. A fun and vibrant storytelling session with plenty of participation. Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

TGS Quiz Night QP.qxp_Layout 1 26/01/2018 07:47 Page 1

Quiz Night

Discover the story of The Lion of the Punjab and the Koh-i-noor Diamond During February half term you can enjoy two free story-telling sessions by Seema Anand about the life of the Maharaja of the Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Ranjit Singh was the father of the last Maharaja of Punjab, Duleep Singh who once lived in Elveden Hall. Seema is a passionate and inspiring storyteller. Whatever the age of her audience, she has the capacity to transport them into her story world and hold them there. Storytelling, according to Seema, is a physical skill and a visual art and her work has developed to include alternative aesthetic and cultural perspectives for all ages. The audience will be invited to take part in the storytelling making the event interactive and amusing for all. Captivating audiences she will share a story about Maharajah Ranjit Singh and the Koh-i-noor before it became part of the Crown Jewels.

Where? Williamson Hall, Thetford Grammar School

When? 6:30 for 7pm, Friday 9th March

A+ knowledge! (or lack of it) CCome along and test you

Teams of 6, or we can create a team for you £10 per person including a fish and chip supper

Raffle and pay bar available Pre-order a bottle of wine when you book Tickets available from Leaping Hare - www.leapinghare.org

All funds raised go to the Friends of Thetford Grammar School Registered Charity 1175546 Thetford Grammar School, Bridge Street Thetford IP24 3AF

FO B R OO VA K L N D EN OW AY T IN ES

Thetford Raj QP Advert 15.qxp_Layout 1 11/12/2017 0

Banquet Night

EVERY WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY (Dine in only) £10.95pp Starter, Main Dish, Vegi Dish Rice and Nan

Seema Anand who will be telling the story of Ranjit Singh and the Koh-i-noor over half term

The Koh-i-noor diamond has had many keepers, including many Kings and Emperors but there was one who was very special, the young Maharajah Duleep Singh of Punjab, India (1838 - 1893). This is a true tale of empire, war, friendship and betrayal, of how the diamond came to be set in Queen Victoria’s crown and how Duleep Singh found a new home in England and his inextricable link to the Punjab. The storytelling session are free for all ages, advanced booking is essential.

Extra £2.50 for dishes above £8.00 Extra £1.95 Fish & King prawn starters

Sunday Buffet

(Dine in only) Every Sunday from 12 Noon - 9pm £9.95pp Children under 10 £5.10 EAT AS MUCH AS YOU LIKE!

Free Delivery in Thetford On orders over £15.00 We deliver up to a 9 mile radius - delivery charge of £2.50 for outside Thetford 15% Discount on all collected orders over £10.00

Thursday 15th February – Elveden Village Hall 1-2pm Friday 16th February – Thetford Library 10.30am To book tickets please call Leaping Hare Box Office on 01842 751975, call into Thetford’s Great Information Centre, 20 King Street, or visit www.leapinghare.org

OPENING HOURS Mon - Sat 5pm - 11pm Sunday 12 noon - 10pm 33 Admirals Way, Thetford IP24 2LB

Tel 01842 764240/765190

www.thetfordraj.co.uk

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PRESENTS

Food, Guinness, Irish Whiskey Live Music and FUN

Saturday 17th March 2018 At the Charles Burrell Centre Doors at 7pm

ÂŁ6.00 per person (over 18s only) Tickets from Leaping Hare, 01842 751975 Book online www.leapinghare.org Facebook: @oldskoolbar2016 s orge' St Ge rty a P Day l Apri 21st 8 1 0 2

's ford Thet Gin d Thir - 16th ival Fest e 2018 Jun

Twitter: @OldSkoolBarThet Wild t h t Nig Wes n u J e 30th 8 201

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Power To Change Update Since the launch of our Power to Change project and being awarded a £112,500 grant, the team at Charles Burrell Centre have been busy preparing the centre for the improvements to take place over the course of the next year. We are really excited to share our progress we have made so far which includes a complete restoration of the main hall floor and stage following decoration work. We have also installed new LED lighting as well as painting and decorating to ensure our hall is ready for a full range of bookings and events. Throughout 2018, refurbishments will continue including new changing rooms, toilets and roof repairs.

The finished floor with new stage curtains!

If you would like to leave your mark on the centre that holds treasured memories for many across Thetford and today is a thriving community hub for many please do contact us for more information. Keep updated with all our progress, volunteering opportunities, fundraising activities, training and work experience placements on our website: Coming Soon; • Balcony staircase repair work • Balustrade installed in balcony area • Promote our ‘Sponsor a chair campaign’ • New office space created in main library • Upgrading former changing room areas to include a storage facility • Upgrading main toilets to include showers • Science block roof repair and solar panels

The Main Hall floor at Charles Burrell Centre being sand-blasted and varnished

There is a match-funding element which requires us to raise £37,500 towards the project. To support this, we have a charity dinner and raffle taking place in February at Thetford Raj with all monies raised going towards the improvements. We are also launching our ‘sponsor a chair’ campaign this month to celebrate the reopening of the balcony viewing area in our main hall. We are looking for support from businesses, individuals and ex-students alike to help us reach our target. We have a number of different sponsorship packages available.

E-mail: jenna@charlesburrellcentre.org.uk Telephone 01842 779867 www.charlesburrellcentre.org.uk Facebook & Twitter - @CbcCentre

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CBC Charity Dinner HP AD.qxp_Layout 1 08/11/2017 0

Greater Thetford Development Partnership Community Sub-Group The next meeting of the Greater Thetford Development Partnership Community Sub-Group will take place on: Wednesday 21st March 2018, 7 - 9pm, Thetford Council Chamber, King’s House, Thetford.

Charles Burrell Centre Charity Dinner

Members of the public are welcome to attend and contribute. For more details, see: http://gtdp.org.uk/community-subgroup Email Chair, R Whittaker: rjw-gtdp@mathmos.net Details of the meetings can also be viewed on the Town Council noticeboard outside King’s House and at Leaping Hare on King Street. Other meetings in 2018, all 7-9pm at King’s House; Wednesday 16th May Wednesday 18th July and Wednesday 19th September.

MONDAY FEBRUARY 5th 6:30pm for 7pm

Events At Thetford Methodist Church

Appetisers on arrival c Starter c Main course including vegetable dishes c Tea and coffee c

To celebrate World Book Day which is on Thursday March 1st, we shall be holding our annual Book Sale in the Foyer of Thetford Methodist Church (opposite Specsavers) in aid of Cancer Research UK from Monday 26th February to Sunday 4th March. We have a wide variety of books and everyone is welcome to pop in and browse. Please ring 01842 761826 for further details. On Saturday 3rd March at 7.30pm the Thetford Methodist Church Choir and guest artists will be giving a concert in the Church to celebrate Sue Webber’s 25th year of working with the choir. The evening will include music, words, novelty items, a gift stall and buffet supper. Entry is free but donations for Cancer Research UK would be appreciated. Everyone is welcome to come and share an evening of lovely music, food and fun. Please ring 01842 761826 for further details.

£18.00 per person Blind Raffle Advanced booking only Tickets available from Leaping Hare Box Office www.leapinghare.org 20 King Street Thetford IP24 2AP

FINDLAY Heating & Cooling Ltd

01842 751975 All proceeds to the Power to Change Project at CBC

Plumbing & Bathroom Installations, Boiler Installations, Servicing, Repairs, Landlord Certificates & Saturday Appointments LPG certified All Types of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning & Air Source Heat Pumps Repaired and Serviced

OPENING HOURS Mon - Sat 5pm - 11pm Sunday 12 noon - 10pm

For your free quote call Marcus on tel: 01842 764564 or 07585 446563

33 Admirals Way, Thetford IP24 2LB

Tel 01842 764240/765190

Email: marcus@findlayservices.co.uk

www.thetfordraj.co.uk

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COMMUNITY CORNER

Community Group meetings taking place during February 2018 Abbey Tenants and Residents’ Association Meeting on Monday 12th February, 6pm at the Abbey Neighbourhood Centre. Contact Brenda on 07768974026 for more information. Barnham Action Group Next meeting will be Monday 19th February, 6pm - 6.30pm for surgery time with Councillors and agencies. 6.30pm main meeting. At Fulmerston Church on Fulmerston Road. Cloverfield & The Willows Next meeting Wednesday 28th February, 8pm at Cloverfield Church & Community Centre. Visit the Facebook page or the website for further information; www.cawrathetford.org.uk Croxton Road Community Association Next meeting will be taking place on Monday 5th February, at the Church of the Nazarene Hall at 7.30pm. Refreshments available. Foodbank donations welcomed. Contact Ian Dixon, Chairman - 01842 765890 for more info. Norwich Road Residents’ Association Next meeting: Thursday 22nd February 2018 at 7.30pm Church On The Way, Churchill Road. Redcastle Action Group Next meeting is Monday 26th February, from 7pm at Redcastle Senior Citizens Club which is to the left of Canon’s Walk Shops. ‘Like’ Redcastle Action Group on Facebook to keep in touch with latest news and meeting dates.

STAG Update Our latest public meeting was held at the Guildhall on 4th January and with a good turnout. There were some interesting points raised by our residents. Inspector Jo Walmsley highlighted areas of concern for the Police and detailed how a multi-agency approach was targeting various criminal activities and Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB). Youth related ASB, around the town centre and Riverside was one of the most debated topics. However, it is apparent that reporting of these incidents on the 101 non-emergency number is low. The 101 line generates statistics which help identify areas of concern and current trends. This also helps when trying to implement schemes such as the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

What can we do? 1. Use the 101 line - we know that it is not a perfect system, sometimes the call takes too long but if no report is made - there is no problem! 2. If you have trouble getting through or cannot wait any longer, report the problem by e-mail: • www.norfolk.police.co.uk there is a “Report It” function which then breaks down into different areas (including ASB). This page also has the latest Police News about our local area. Do Not: Use Facebook or other social media to rant – you may make yourself feel better, but nothing will be done! Remember: If it is an emergency, if anyone is in any danger dial 999. Our next open meeting is 5th April 18 at 7:00pm in the Guildhall, we look forward to seeing you there.

Thetford Town Council Full Council Meeting - Open to the public. Ceremonial meeting - regalia on display etc. Tuesday 27th February 2018, starting at 7pm with a 15 minute Open Forum for the public. Agenda available via: www.thetfordtowncouncil.gov.uk Amenities, Land and Property Committee on the 7th February, from 2pm. Civic Commitee from 10am on the 8th February and Planning Committee on the 13th February from 7pm. Venues, Events and Marketing on the 14th February from 1pm and Finance Committee on the 20th February from 6pm.

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Horticultural Project Celebrates Funding Success The Horticultural Industy Scheme, known as ‘THIS’ – a gardening social enterprise has been awarded EU funding through the European Social Fund’s Lift Jobs programme to provide 15 places to ex-offenders who are motivated not to reoffend. Speaking about the award, CEO Georgina Keatley said, “Although we train workers in horticulture, we also do employability training and help with resettlement issues. The money will allow us to make a bigger social impact and really help those who do not want to reoffend.” THIS grows salad leaves, interesting vegetables and edible flowers and sells them to very local, top quality restaurants, such as the Mulberry, the Elveden Courtyard and the Northgate in Bury St. Edmunds. Over a two or four month placement, the participants gain work experience and training in all aspects of growing, from clearing the soil, planting seeds, nurturing plants and harvesting. They will also receive training in employability and will keep workbooks to record all their progress. Participant Duncan Townend said, “I’ve always enjoyed gardening, I learnt when I was younger in my Grandad’s garden and I‘m enjoying the work here.” THIS started at the Charles Burrell centre last summer, using the former school allottment site. Since then THIS have cultivated a series of beds and expanded their growing area. Georgina continued, “We have been steadily clearing the site alongside growing the produce since we started. Craig and Duncan have been busy preparing the exsisiting beds for replanting and we’re pleased with the new long salad bed.” THIS founders, Tim Melvin and Georgina Keatley are experienced prison resettlement workers who support all the participants in all areas where they may have difficulties, such as housing, drugs and alcohol,

Craig and Duncan help Georgina work on one of the salad leaf beds.

debt and opening bank accounts. Finally at the end of their placements, participants are helped to find permanent employment. “If anyone is interested in a work placement with THIS, please contact us. You can go onto our website and message us via the contact us page or even leave a message with reception at the Charles Burrell Centre.” For more information visit www.this.org.uk or visit the Mr G's QP Advert.qxp_Layout 1 11/01/2018 16:20 Page Facebook page ‘The Horticulture Industry Scheme CIC’ to keep up to date with what’s happening on site.

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Half term fun at the museum

Discover Vikings and Anglo-Saxons Visit Ancient House this half term holiday to find out about life in Thetford during Anglo-Saxon and Viking times. Visitors can enjoy ‘The Vikings are Coming’ Family Trail by finding the crew hidden around the Museum from Saturday 10th to Saturday 17th February. Coins like the one you can make at the Museum on our event day were hammered out in Thetford for some 200 years from about 978 to 1189. A town having its own licensed mint was a sign of great importance. The discovery at an archaeological dig at Mill Lane in Thetford in the 1990s of one of the metal stamps used to make coins was a very rare find. You can see the thousand year old coin-making stamp and a silver Thetford coin on display in our Handmade exhibition.

characters and have the opportunity to hammer your own Anglo-Saxon coin using a replica of the local metal stamps on display in the Handmade exhibition. Families can taste Viking-style cheese, learn to weave, spin and create more crafts to take home. Families can drop in anytime between 10.00am until 1.00pm. There is no need to book. The event costs is £2 per person, or £1 per person for Friends of Ancient House and Museums Pass Holders and Children’s University members. This includes admission to the museum. The Vikings Are Coming trail costs 50p per trail including a small prize, plus museum admission.

Ancient House Opening Times: Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 4pm Telephone 01842 752599

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Adults £4.35 Conc £4.15 Child £3.50 Family 1 adult £11.50 Family 2 Adults £14.80 Free admission to Museum Pass Holders, friends of Thetford Museum, Children’s University, MA & Art Fund members, 1 carer for each registered disabled visitor, Under 4s. Pop in for £1 everyday 1 hour before closing. www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk/AncientHouse DKM Services 1 17/07/2017 15:07 Pag Find us onAD.qxp_Layout twitter: @ancienthousemus Facebook: /ancienthousemuseum

Have a go at coin striking during the half term holiday

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On Tuesday 13 February (10am to 1pm) the past will come alive with our AngloSaxons and Vikings Discovery Day. Visitors are invited to step back a thousand years and discover what Thetford was like during the Anglo-Saxon period when it was one of the largest and most important towns in the country. Experience placing your fingers on the ‘pie crust’ decoration of the Thetford Ware pottery, made all those hundreds of years ago. Meet costumed

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Past & Present

Until the 1970s, railway wagons were shunted into this goods shed at the west end of the railway station, a busy centre for the transit of all sorts of goods by rail and road. The past photograph was taken in 2014, the present photograph after the recent refurbishment. Photographs from the David Osborne Collection. Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

Thetford Players Panto Triumph This year’s panto, Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood has been another success for Thetford Players. A firm favourite in Thetford’s calendar, over 1000 people watched the show over 6 performances in the Carnegie Room. Directed by Emma Kelly, this year saw the return of Tim Lovejoy as the Dame and several new principals in the cast. Maddie Soan and Bobbie-Jo Wilson were well cast as Robin Hood and Maid Marion. Thetford Players Cast On Set For Robin Hood And The

Star of the show had to be Barry Bailey in his debut as Babes In The Wood. Photo by Maria Cooke. the Sheriff of Nottingham. Barry delighted the audience fantastic feedback from everyone who has seen the as the panto baddie, crying out, “It’s not CBeebies show. The atmosphere has been brilliant, the cast and here” and “it’s a baddies panto!” along with plenty of crew have been amazing and worked really hard.” traditional boo and hissing. New principal, Leanne White did a great job as Little Joan and along with panto Wardrobe Mistress June Lewis and her team created favourite Phil Pearson, who triumphed as Friar Tuck, every costume used in the show this year. The especially during Act 2, in a scene that was almost team did a magnificent job dressing a large cast so straight out of Monty Python! Another popular moment professionally. To celebrate their success the team was the ‘striptease by Dame Winnie Widebottom, which dressed up for the final walk down at the last led to the question, how many layers can the Dame performance. Every year the Players deliver a panto to wear at any one time – answer, enough to finish the be proud of, and yet again they have done a wonderful scene looking resplendent in pjs and getting whistles job, congratulations to all the cast and crew. MCPthe HP audience! Advert_Layout 1 12/02/2016 Page 1 from Speaking about her 16:45 directorial debut Emma said, “It’s been brilliant, we’ve had Visit www.thetfordplayers.co.uk for more info.

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Amnesty International In December the Thetford group of Amnesty International participated in the Write for Rights campaign held worldwide for a particular group of Individuals at Risk. One of our members spoke to The Sixth Form at Thetford Academy where cards and letters were written by students for three Individuals at Risk. These included Azza Soliman, a Women’s Rights lawyer in Cairo, Egypt who among other things represents women who have been abused and raped (rape victims need legal protection-the state provides none). For her pains she has had the Women’s Aid charity she runs closed down by the Egyptian Government and its assets frozen. They don’t like the fact that she seeks to help women who have been raped. They have gone so far as to charge her with “bringing the reputation of Egypt into disrepute” by suggesting that women might be raped in Egypt. She is due to be tried soon and if anyone still wants to write to her to offer support it’s not too late. Please contact the Thetford AI group through its Facebook page. One of the other particular Individuals at Risk helped by the campaign of letter writing was the Group’s adopted prisoner of conscience Johan Teterissa imprisoned in Indonesia for 15 years for waving the flag of an independence movement.

Azza Soliman - Women’s Rights Lawyer in Cairo. Image courtesy of Amnesty.

Feeling perhaps unheard and politically powerless at home, it is difficult to perceive that foreign governments might pay any attention to foreign criticism. The surprising thing is that they do listen and act. That is why Amnesty International has been so successful over the last 55 years. The psychology is actually simple: no one likes to be named and shamed when their behaviour is so obviously unacceptable. We have welcomed quite a number of new members to the AI Thetford group recently and there is no limit on numbers. Simon John

From Thetford Academy the campaign moved to Thetford Library where a substantial number of visitors to the Library signed cards to the individuals and letters to the authorities in Egypt and Indonesia. The Group was very gratified to see such an open-hearted response to the suffering of others at the hands of brutal regimes. We have been so secure in this country for so long that it is sometimes difficult to come to grips with the realities elsewhere in the world, where people are not so fortunate.

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Len’s Shots Capture An Emergency

Barry Carter

It was termed an emergency, but it became little short of a full-blown war against communists guerrillas in the jungles of Malaysia. Thetford Probus hears the story.

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Although the conflict took place some 60 years ago, retired RAF technician Len Raven was able to recall his experiences in detail for his talk to Probus Club members at their first 2018 monthly meeting. Len recalled that he never fired a single shot with his rifle during the three years he served there, but he more than made up for this by the number of shots he took with his Agfa camera. These brought his talk alive as he revealed how he and his comrades lived and worked, and the terrain where the fighting was taking place.

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Len explained that his job was to keep Whirlwind helicopters flying for their crucial missions, taking troops and their supplies deep into hostile jungle to seek and destroy the enemy. He often flew as a member of the crew and had to carry out maintenance work on the helicopters in very demanding conditions, graphically illustrated in some the pictures he captured with his camera. The Emergency lasted for 12 years and cost of thousands of lives, both combatant and civilian. For Len, memories were refreshed when he revisited Malaysia last year and what made it even more special was sharing the trip with a friend who had been a comrade from all those years ago. He could also take pride that they had played a small part in helping the country become a stable democracy.

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Rotary News The Rotary Club of Thetford held its first dinner meeting of the new year at the Thomas Paine Hotel and we were delighted to have a visit from Ray Burman, a past Rotary International, Great Britain and Ireland president who lives in Hockwold. Ray (or Burman as he likes to be called) is a retired metropolitan police superintendent and is currently a lay (pioneer) minister responsible for eight parishes. Burman is a Rotarian in Cambridge and has responsibility for membership in this area. Burman’s after-dinner talk, entitled “A Road Map to Membership” was inspiring. Rotary needs more members in Thetford as well as nationally, in order to be able to continue our work giving something back to the local community. We are a worldwide group of more than a million people who come together to exchange ideas, form friendships and make professional connections, while making a difference locally and around the world. Burman spoke about the need to adapt the current Rotary model to bring it up to date and increase its appeal for younger people. Therefore, it is our intention to start a new Rotary Group in Thetford, perhaps a Satellite Group or a Rotary Business Forum which would allow younger people an alternative Rotary model. It would be more flexible and casual, and would give young people the opportunity to mix, make friendships and co-ordinate charity projects.

A vote of thanks to Burman was given by Vice President Colin Mackay. If you are interested in this new concept and would like to form or be part of this new group then please contact Thetford Rotary by email: thetfordrotary1@gmail.com Gary Goodchild Thetford Rotary Club

Thetford WI To Host Craft Day Thetford Womne’s Institute are pleased to invite you to learn new skills and/or brush up your technique at a fun, full day course. Open Craft Day Saturday 17th March 2018 At Barnham Village Hall, 10am – 3.30pm Cost: £15 to include lunch, dessert, teas and coffees (plus cost of materials payable to tutor on the day)

The new group would be an offshoot of Thetford Rotary but run totally independently. Burman explained that this new concept is already working well around the world Crafts on offer: Folded Book Art, Introduction to and some groups have already been established in Hardanger, Silk Necklace, Sugarcraft, or Dorset this area. He said that it was, ‘’putting something back Buttons. Places are filling up, so early application into your community, while using and developing your is advised. Further details and booking form from: business and personal talents. It’s fun and you’ll be Mrs Carol Shields MTS Electrical AD.qxp_Layout 1 24/11/2017 networking whileQPmaking friends and business 10:09 Page 1 Telephone: 01842 752134 or 01842 76114. contacts.”

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A New Lease Of Life With Thetford U3A

Our next monthly talk at the Carnegie Room, Thetford is on Thursday 22nd February 1.45pm to 4pm when Linda Scoles will tell us about 'Journey to Citizenship' (free to members, £2 for visitors) or pay us a visit during our FREE Open Day on Thursday 22 March from 1.45 pm at the Leisure Centre, Croxton Road, Thetford. Group leaders will be delighted to explain everything about their groups and you can even try your hand at badminton, short tennis or table tennis but please wear appropriate footwear. We always welcome new members!

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Thetford Society

World Day Of Prayer

Our local Historian David Osborne took us through the story of Thetford children from the 19th Century to the present day at our most recent meeting. He was supported by a PowerPoint full of historic photographs which helped us identify still recognizable landmarks such as the Bell and St Peters Church. The children of the town had very different lives in the past; the 1871 census recorded 58 children (predominantly orphans) working in the Workhouse. There was also a British and Foreign School in Tanner Street and a little later the National School was opened on Croxton Road. Most children were required to work or earn money in some way to contribute to the home which kept idle hands busy. From 1890 to around 1917 many youth groups began such as the Boys Brigade, Boy Scouts and finally the Girl Guides. From WW2 through to the 1970s there were many oohs and aahs as the group recognised relatives and friends.

For Men and Women International & Interdenominational Friday 2nd March 2018 at St Cuthbert’s Church, 10.30am

The World Day of Prayer Service for 2018 has been written by the Christian women of Suriname. Although written by women, increasingly men and children are participating. Over 36 hours, 170 countries will have taken part. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland some 6,000 services will be held. In Thetford the service is organised through Thetford Christians Together and will be held on March 2nd at St Cuthbert’s Church starting with refreshments from 10am and the service at 10.30am. We offer a warm invitation to all and feel sure that the service will enable us to learn more about the life and beauty of Suriname and the natural resources of this country.

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Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day is on Tuesday 13th February 2018 Tag @About_Thetford on Twitter with photos of your pancake creations

On a cold Saturday 6th January many members and their guests attended the Guildhall for our festive gathering where we were entertained by the band ‘Lost Highways’. We then had the opportunity to dance off a few calories from the fabulous buffet and walk out with our raffle prizes after a great night. Our next event: At 7.15pm on Tuesday 6th Feb 2018 at the United Reformed Church on Earls Street we will welcome Dr Paul Riches, who will tell the story of the port and merchants of Georgian Kings Lynn. New members are always welcome, just bring a smile and £1. Deadline for inclusion in the March 2018 edition of the magazine will be the 15th February Send you content to: aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com

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This month’s Thetford Face is Paul Stancliffe, Media Manager at the British Trust for Ornithology. Originally from Nottingham, Paul has created a successful career from his lifelong passion of bird watching. Paul has also made a difference to the lives of local young people through his youth work and support of Thetford Community Association. The author of two best selling bird books, Paul has also been known to appear as an Anglo-Saxon at West Stow with his family. How long have you been interested in birds? I’ve always been interested in birds, for as long as I can remember. For me it’s the thing that gets under your skin, I like that they’re dynamic creatures, they move all over our planet under their own steam. I started my first notebook when I was 12 years old and I’ve kept one ever since. It’s good to have a passion about something. You never stop learning, there’s always something new to find out.

Paul with his young daughters on St Agnes

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Did you study ornithology after school? No, I left school at 16 and joined the Navy. I thought it would provide an opportunity to see albatrosses in the southern oceans, particularly the South Atlantic. At the end of my basic training I was told that I would be stationed on a submarine. As bird watching would be limited as a submariner I decided to leave. I got an Locks, Handles, apprenticeship as an engineer in a textile mill in the Hinges Replaced Midlands. They encouraged meREV2.qxp_Layout to continue learning 1so11/09/20 No Job to Small 1-8 Advert I started with a City & Guilds qualification, then gained l No call out or Vat charge! l 24/7 auto locksmith l Free on site quotations l Warranty on workmanship l Genuine local tradesman! l Glazed units replaced

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Where did you live before moving to Thetford? In 1997 we moved to the Isles of Scilly. My job was to maintain and service all five of the islands. The islands are a bird watchers paradise, and I so became the bird recorder for the islands and formed the Isles of Scilly Bird Group, which still continues today! Whilst living on Scilly I trained as a youth worker in my spare time. I noticed there wasn’t a youth club so with the support of the Isle of Scilly Council I set one up which I ran for 6 years. I have always liked the idea of giving back something to the community that you live in. How long have you lived in Thetford? We moved to Thetford in 2004, I had a young family and wanted to do something different from Electrical Engineering. We moved to Thetford without visiting the town, although I did know that the BTO were based here. I spotted an ad for a Senior Youth Worker at Keystone Development Trust, and shortly after arriving in the town I began working for Keystone developing and delivering youth projects around the Brecks.

Paul with copies of his best selling books

cultural community here.There has been plenty here to keep us interested. Thetford has been really good for us. Where in the world does work take you now? At the moment I am busy with the Winterwatch team. I’m also on the Council of the Ornithological Society for the Middle East. I’ve always been interested in the birds of the Middle East. We live in what is known as the Western Palaearctic and the biggest migration spot is in Eilat in Southern Israel. If you’re interested in migration, you can’t not go there. There’s never a dull moment and I’m looking forward to my next visit in April. I also spoke at the International Bird Observatory Conference in New Jersey last autumn, representing the BTO. The audience came from all over the world. I always talk about where the BTO is based. It’s amazing that we have this organisation with a global reach here in Thetford. People always think we’re in London or somewhere like Liverpool or Manchester.

How have you helped our community? The skate park was one of the biggest projects that I helped to deliver. I also sit on the Board of Trustees for Thetford Community Association. In the past I have run an allotment club, an environment club and cooking club amongst others. As I member of BTO staff I also give talks to community groups such as the U3A. I also give guided tours with a potted history of the Nunnery during Heritage Open Days. How did you move from electrical engineering to the British Trust for Ornithology? After 2 years at Keystone a job appeared in the local paper for the BTO. I didn’t think I was qualified, as I hadn’t got a formal ornithology qualification but the ad said educated to degree level so I applied. My degree opened the door, but my lifelong passion and 45 years of developing my knowledge through my hobby got me the job. Hobbies are so important; they can take you places that you never expect. I come to the BTO everyday and I talk about birds, I write about birds and read about birds. Who would have thought that I’d be doing that for a living?!

Did you ever think that you’d become an author? I’ve always enjoyed writing but I never thought I’d write a book! I’ve always felt that I have lots to say about Britain’s birds, and I’ve written lots of articles about them. When it came to starting my first book, Collins BTO Guide to British Birds, I wrote a story about how to bird watch and basically created a workshop within a book format. By the end of the book you’ll know much more about birds than when you started! For more information on the BTO visit www.bto.org Copies of Paul’s books will be available at Thetford’s Great Information Centre, King Street.

What do you love about Thetford? The BTO is a great place to work and Thetford is a nice place to live with easy access to wildlife. If you live in Thetford you’re almost living in the forest. As a family it offers quite a lot as a place to live. I really like the multi-

If you would like to nominate someone to be a Thetford Face please contact Karen by email: aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com

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DELIVERY AREA Every month there are 12,500 copies of the About Thetford magazine printed. They arrive back from the printers on the last Friday of each month ready for distribution. By the end of that weekend virtually all the magazines are delivered by our dedicated delivery team who undertake the 30 different delivery routes. We deliver to every house in Thetford, as well as business premises throughout the Town Centre and across the industrial estates. In addition, we deliver to homes in the villages of Croxton, Barnham and Wretham. Due to demand, we have established a rural delivery route and leave copies of the magazine at a variety of locations for residents in the villages surrounding Thetford. The route is as follows; Magazine Pick-Up Points: 1. East Harling; Post Office, Doctors Surgery, Village Stores, FL Edge & Son Butchers, the Swan Inn 2. Kenninghall - The Coffee House, NR16 2AH 3. Banham Village Stores, Kenninghall Road, NR16 2HE Banham Post Office, The Green, NR16 2AA 4. Garboldisham Village Shop & Post Office, The Street, Garboldisham, IP22 2QN 5. Hopton Village Post Office & Stores, Thelnetham Road, IP22 2QY 6. Ixworth Post Office, High Street, IP31 2HH 7. Jackdaw Service Station, IP31 1EL 8. Lotties Emporium, Bardwell Road, Stanton, IP31 2EA 9. Elveden Courtyard, London Rd, Elveden, IP24 3TQ 10. Brandon – magazines delivered to all High Street retailers including Brandon Town Council offices Mark’s Traditional Greengrocers, Market Hill, Hyams Bakery, The Meat Market 11. Weeting Post Office, George’s Fish Bar – both Hereward Way, Weeting 12. Mundford, Browns Kitchen and Farm Shop, Swaffham Road, IP26 5EH Lynford Hall, IP26 5HW 13. The Dragonfly Visitor &Exhibition Centre, Wayland House, Watton, IP25 6AR 14. The English Whisky Company, St Georges Distillery, Harling Road, Roudham, NR16 2QW There are also additional copies left at the Thetford Town Council offices, Thetford’s Great Information Centre, Rumbles Fish & Chip Shop in Kings Street, Ancient House Museum in White Hart Street, Thetford Library, Riversdale Centre in Tanner Street & Thetford Garden Centre. ion

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You are and we haven’t forgotten that. Call us for a free valuation of your prope rty. 01842 7541 61

Read the magazine for free online! Every month we upload a digital copy of the magazine onto our website so that it can be read online, for free, anywhere in the world. We have regular readers from places such as Australia and America. You can also read previous copies of the magazine and view other information through the website. Visit: www.aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk

Contact: 07540 463662 or E-mail: karen@aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk Don’t forget! We are also on Twitter via @About_Thetford,have a Facebook page and are on Instagram all pages are updated on a regular basis with the latest news and information and highlights from the monthly magazine

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Church Fund Benefits From Burns Night Supper

Burns Night Quiz Raises Charity Funds ‘The Wooden Spoons’ left with cash rather than the wooden spoon booby prize at a recent quiz hosted by Old Skool Bar.

The fundraising team at St Cuthbert’s are delighted with their latest fundraising effort toward the Church Redevolpment Fund. £340 was raised during the Burns Night Supper held in the church hall on January 25th. Guests enjoyed a traditonal Burns Night meal, featuring haggis and Highland stew followed by cranachan with raspberries for dessert. A good selection of whiskies were available for those partaking in a ‘wee dram’ and a great time was had by all. Organiser Rachel Woods said, “I’d just like to say a huge thanks to everyone who enjoyed the evening and those behind the scenes who worked so hard and stepped in when flu struck some of the helpers.”

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Winning Quiz Team: The Wooden Spoons

Look out for very exciting news about a The Burns Night themed quiz was held at the Charles NEW photographic competition, Burrell Centre and raised £100 to support ongoing open to all photographers of all ages and abilities, improvements on site. Forthcoming Old Skool Bar which will be launching in our March issue. events include a St Patrick’s Day Party on Saturday 17th Check the About Thetford website and social media March 2018 and a Gin Festival on 16th June 2018. Full Simon Long HP Advert_Layout 1 next 18/04/2011 accounts (Facebook and Twitter) month 11:35 Page 1 details on ‘Old Skool Bar’ Facebook page.

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Thetford Garden and Allotment Club February Task List For Gardeners February is the month for preparation. This is a good time to make any repairs or improvements to paths, fences and sheds. It is also the right time to prune hardy evergreen hedges. These are often on the boundary so you need to investigate the far side and apply a vigorous trim (especially where the hedge is alongside a footpath). If you have a deciduous hedge, this is the time to sort it out as it will grow all the more enthusiastically after its prune. While you are in trimming mode, check any ornamental grasses and cut back the deciduous type. Then you can remove the dead leaves from perennial grasses.

eat yourself. Perhaps this is the year to treat yourself to a fruit (and veg) cage to increase your harvest. If you want to feed the birds something else, the club shop sells bird seed and many other things and is open on a Saturday morning.

Another job that is best done now is the preparation of vegetable seed-beds, forking them over and removing any perennial weeds. You can cover the soil to help it warm up and plant some seeds late in the month. Parsnips can be set, along with a scattering of radish seed. Parsnips take about a month to germinate and If you had a good show of snowdrops last month you the little radish leaves will stop you hoeing the whole can divide them now and start a colony in another lot out. Indoors, you can chit potatoes, setting them in area of the garden. Snowdrops do not respond well to a frost-free place that is light to encourage the “eyes” being dried out before replanting so lift and replant to start shooting. If you know that blight is a problem them straight away. If you have NO snowdrops at all, Tropical & coldwater reptiles, in your area, it is fish, a good idea to grow first or second look out for plants grown in pots which can be dropped amphibians, invertebrates, food as & more earlies rather than live maincrop the tubers should form into a welcoming hole with no problem. They need toOpenbefore Mondaythe to Saturday 10am—6pm, disease takes hold. Sunday 10am—4pm,Closed on Wednesday be planted quite deeply – say around 4 inches. If you have any of the very early flowering fruit trees growing Our February meeting will include a talk by Barry Gayton against a wall you have probably seen their delicate on the Propagation of Plants. There is always something blooms nipped by the frost. So if you want to harvest to learn from our speakers and being able to produce peaches, nectarines or apricots, any protective cover new plants from old is a sort of magic. So please feel you can give them when frost is forecast will increase welcome to come along and hear what the club has planned for the year. We meet this month on the 22nd your chances. at the United Reformed Church for a 7.30pm start. Covering green vegetables like broccoli to protect them Happy gardening! Sue Pilgrim from the pigeons is the only way you will get any to

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Award Nomination For Garden Team Thetford Open Gardens big news of 2018 is that we have been nominated for a TARA award (Thetford Awards Recognising Achievement). So thank you to whoever nominated us, it is great to be recognised for our efforts to create a lovely community event, which benefits St Nicholas Hospice Care. Thetford Open Gardens is on Sunday July 1st this year and the team is already planning the day. We are looking forward to hearing from anyone, who would like to open their garden, as a regular or a first timer. So please get in touch via our Facebook page, on Twitter @ ThetOpenGardens or 07796958404 or 01842 765753 or email: thetfordopengardens@gmail.com

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Spring Is Just Around The Corner My walk to work at the BTO’s Nunnery headquarters takes me along Spring Walk and the riverside. I take this walk most days throughout the year and no two days are the same. Right now, I am noticing the first signs of spring. There are snowdrops on the riverbank and the buds on the trees are beginning to swell but the most obvious sign is the increasing intensity of the birdsong. Currently taking centre stage and singing its heart out is a Song Thrush. In fact, the more I listen, the more I can hear; at least two more are singing in the distance. This song has to be amongst the easiest of birdsongs to learn. The song consists of three, four, or even five strong, high-pitched fluty notes delivered in repeated phrases, a sort of “di-dee, di-dee, di-dee” – “diddle-ip, diddle-ip, diddle-ip” – “see-hoo, see-hoo, see-hoo”. During my walk I heard another seven different species singing too, including Dunnock, Great Tit and Nuthatch. Spring is definitely in the air even if it doesn’t quite feel like it.

The Mute Swan pair that successfully raised four young on the river last summer have finally chased off the last remaining youngster and are now beginning to defend the stretch of river between Nuns Bridges and the sluice further downstream against all comers. A pair of Little Grebes is also favouring this part of the river; hopefully we will be hearing their ‘whinnying’ call over the next few weeks. If you want to learn more about Thetford’s birds, BTO are running a series of free guided walks. For more information, please visit: www.bto.org/thetford

Birdsong isn’t the only indication that spring is just around the corner, because for the wildfowl on the river it is almost here. Male Mallard can be seen fighting with each other and displaying to the females, and it is a display worth watching. Each male jostles to try to get into the best position to impress the females. Once in position they tuck their heads down between their shoulders and then quickly flick the head up whilst uttering a short, sharp, high-pitched whistle. The males are also looking very dapper in their fine glossy-green headdress. Not to be left out, the geese are going for it too. Canada Geese are beginning to form pairs and woe betide any interloper that tries to break them up. The river close to Nuns Bridges was awash with the noisy honking that accompanies these squabbles. It won’t be long before the winter flock breaks up completely and the pairs go off to find a place to nest.

Paul Stancliffe, British Trust for Ornithology

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Re-Skims

Events At Redgrave And Lopham Fen Wildlife Watch Group Saturdays 10th Feb, 10 March,10.30am-12.30pm A club for 6 - 12 year olds, £2 Contact marcus.halmshaw@btinternet.com or call 01379 688333 Time To Paint Friday 23rd Feb, 30th March,10am - 2pm Bring some artwork and join like-minded people in a relaxed, informal setting. £5 donation, includes tea and cake . All welcome, no need to book Contact: Deborah Key 01379 688333 Activity Day For Home-Educated Children Tuesday 27th Feb, 10.30am - 2.30pm For 5-9 year olds. £7 per child, booking essential

Guided Fen Walks 3rd March, 10.30am - 1pm Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Fen with enthusiast and naturalist John Hill. £4, meet at the Education Centre, no booking required.

Birds, Whales & More In New Zealand Tuesday 27th Feb, 7.30pm Evening talk with Valley Fens Wildlife Group £2 per person (includes refreshments) All welcome, no need to book

Volunteer Recruitment Morning Wednesday 7th Feb, 10am - 12noon Find out about volunteering at the Fen & Knettishall Heath. No booking necessary

For further details and to book, visit: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org or call 01473 890089

Adult Course: Two Colour Woodblock Printmaking Thursday 8th Feb, 10am-4pm. With artist Glenn Holman. £35, including materials. Booking essential. Children’s activity: Super Furry Animals Tuesday 13th Feb, 10am-2pm. For unaccompanied 6 - 10 year olds. £7, booking essential

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After

Neutering Campaign During the month of February, if you live in areas IP26, IP27 or IP28, and have an unneutered cat, you can have him or her neutered for £5. Just call the number at the bottom of the page, and we will send you a neutering voucher which you can take to any vet. We are hoping to reduce the kitten population this year and we need your help! Female cats come into season during the early part of the year, and any kittens will be born in the spring. Females can become pregnant at only 4 months of age and have 3 litters a year which adds to the problem of over-population and can be expensive for their owners. Females will call and wail every 3 weeks during the breeding season to attract a male until they are pregnant. Un-neutered females are more likely to contract diseases spread through sexual contact and are also at risk of cancers of the ovaries, uterus and mammary glands, as well as developing pyometra, a serious infection of the womb. Male cats need neutering for a variety of reasons too. Un-neutered males are more likely to end up injured or catch diseases from fighting, leading to suffering and vet’s bills. They also travel many miles in search of unneutered females, risking road accidents and injury. Male cats spray smelly urine to mark and attract females; they also risk testicular tumours if they are not neutered. There are some myths about neutering cats. Un-neutered animals will breed with their brothers, sisters and parents and can start breeding from just four months of age. Kittens can be safely neutered before six months of age and it is not beneficial for a cat to have a season or litter before being spayed. One female cat can be responsible for 20,000 descendants in just five years! Un-neutered cats are very good at finding each other and unplanned, unwanted pregnancies are all too common. Neutered

cats do not ‘miss’ their organs or opportunities to reproduce or rear a litter - they are not people! While the majority of owners do neuter their cats, sadly a large number of owned cats are allowed to breed, adding to the overpopulation problem and the demand on overstretched animal charities. Please don’t leave it too late. Speak to your vet and book your cat’s neutering appointment. It may prevent your cat suffering and it is the most important action you can take to help the wider cat population. To take part in our neutering campaign please call Breckland CatsFeb/March Protection on 01842 810018. John Oliver 2018 Ads.qxp_Layout 1 18/01/2 Rita Thompson.

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Thetford Inner Wheel The first meeting of 2018 was held at the Thomas Paine Hotel early in January.. Following the Business section, our inspirational speaker was Susie Childerhouse, a Learning Assistant at the Castle Museum, Norwich and dressed as a Viking traveller. She very quickly asked us to imagine ourselves as 8 year olds, and then produced a vast array of reproduction museum artefacts, for us to guess their origin and use. Some were obvious but others less so, such as the ridged gold ingot, about 1 inch long carried by Vikings, which was used to pay for goods by shearing off the required amount to cover the payment. The Castle Museum sees 20,000 children through their doors annually and give each age group a different experience. Susie gave us a good insight of the Museum’s valuable work. If you are interested in joining in the fun and friendship of Inner Wheel and with the opportunity to give a little back to society, you are most welcome Find out more by contacting Jackie on 01842 890482. Liz Hodgson, Inner Wheel

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Tricky Period Launch at Thetford Library Homeless women and women on low incomes will benefit from a new service set up to provide free sanitary products at Thetford Library. The Tricky Period project involves the library taking donations of products and handing them out to people who cannot afford them, with no questions asked about proof of eligibility. Staff at Thetford library have been taking in donations of tampons, sanitary towels and carrier bags for the last few weeks. Community Librarian Caroline Varney-Bowers, from the Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library, is behind the project which is already running in the Norwich area. She said: “I became aware of a project called The Homeless Period where homeless women struggle to afford these items and did some further research about period poverty. I found this is also an issue for young women from low-income families and sometimes leads to girls missing school during their period. We’ve given around 150 packs of pads and tampons to local organisations, refuges and individuals in just 2 months and taken in donations of around 500 packs. We have a festive themed display in The Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library about periods and the menopause with a “Tampon Tree” as a focal point to get people talking and help to reduce the stigma, with a comments book for people to let us know what they think of the initiative.Library staff have been hugely supportive of starting up this service and we have already had some donations.”

their services find it very difficult to ask for these items. Norfolk County Council’s Library and Information Service works closely with the Council’s Public Health team on the Healthy Libraries project to improve awareness, information and support around health and wellbeing to people living in Norfolk. This also includes supporting and promoting public health campaigns about issues, including dementia awareness and reducing childhood obesity. Libraries work with local and national organisations to host events which encourage people to improve their health and wellbeing through exercise and advice about healthy eating.

Order forms will be available in Thetford Library at the staff desk. Customers can tick the products they require and hand in their form at the desk and receive the items they need. Thetford Foodbank is supporting the project as they are acutely aware that many who access

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The service is available during library opening hours. The Abbey Neighbourhood Centre and Thetford Citizens Advice are also supporting the scheme and items can be dropped to their offices in Abbey Neighbourhood Centre, Exeter Way, Thetford, IP24 1JD to be passed on to Thetford Library. Lotti Fraser from the Abbey Neighbourhood Centre says “This is such a simple thing that can make such a huge difference to the lives of local women. Unfortunately periods are something that still come with a level of stigmatisation attached and we hope this scheme will be a step towards breaking this down. We are eager to play whatever part we can in helping women in need to access these essential products as and when they need them.”

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And Mel Jones from Citizens Advice said “We know that women on low incomes often have to manage without these products and hope the initiative will help to alleviate this symptom of poverty, which is easily remedied.

We have listened to our members & pleased to announce we are launching The Core Studio TV Channel. You will be able to access home workouts including Pilates, Fitness Yoga, Stretches for Back Care, Fab Abs, Release & Unwind.

Thetford Library opening times - Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 8.30am – 5.30pm, Wednesday 8.30am – 1pm, Friday 8.30am – 7pm and Saturday 9am – 1pm.

We are offering access to the workouts for FREE throughout February in exchange for feedback, testimonials & suggestions. We are so excited; you get to choose what we film & then can access 24/7. Contact us for further details.

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Ask The Undertaker

ago, as she and her Husband had to take care of her father in law, who lives in Nottingham. They had always intended to be buried in the family grave at Thetford Cemetery, but are now concerned as they have been told that if you do not live in the Town you cannot be buried here”.

Each month we invite readers to submit questions to our resident undertaker - Mark Skinner. Here are some questions that have been submitted this month.

Elaine – Thetford Q - “My son has told me that he doesn’t believe that the ashes we have at home, following his Father’s funeral are actually his. He has been told by a friend that everyone is cremated together”. Elaine – The ashes you have will definitely be your Husbands, each cremator at a crematorium is only large enough to carry out one cremation at a time. It may seem strange but this is a question many people ask me and of course worry about. However there is no need to be concerned the crematoriums act in a meticulous way to ensure that the ashes that are returned to you are those of your loved one. They are so sure that everything is carried out correctly, that they would be happy for you to see just how stringent their procedures are. If you would like more information about what happens please feel free to call me.

Phillip – There should not be a problem as your Sister already has a grave plot purchased, however if you are a non - resident and do not already own a grave in the Cemetery you can no longer be buried here. The Town Council had to make this decision due to an environmental restriction on the new area of the Cemetery. Exceptions are made when residents have to move into care homes outside the area, but in general if you do not live here you can no longer be buried here. If your Sister would like me to check this for her I will be happy to do this. If you have a question that you would like to ask Mark, please send it to: mark@mark-skinner.org.uk

Philip – Thetford On behalf Of Priscilla Q - “My Sister moved away from Thetford a few years

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Clinical Negligence – When and how to claim

negligence claim, you must prove through independent medical expert evidence that firstly there were serious errors in the medical treatment that you received which no competent doctor would have made; and that those errors caused or substantially contributed to the injury you are complaining of. With the independent medical expert often being required to put forward technical medical evidence, for that reason clinical negligence claims can take longer to pursue, sometimes lasting for years before even reaching Court should the medical professional or body in question choose to oppose the claim.

In these modern times, doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals can generally be relied upon to provide an excellent standard of service for their patients. However, if you, your spouse or child have been injured, or if tragically you are the dependent or a child of a patient who has died as a result of medical treatment, you are entitled to receive an explanation from your treatment provider. Where the injury or death has been caused or contributed to by the breach of a duty of care, you and/or your child may be entitled to financial compensation for what is now called ‘clinical negligence’, but which has in the past been referred as ‘medical negligence’.

If you are considering bringing a claim, generally the first stage would be to submit a letter of complaint to the proposed defendant. This gives you an opportunity to put forward your grievances and to consider the response that they provide. If you then remain dissatisfied with the response, it may be that you have a claim for clinical negligence and may be entitled to compensation for pain, suffering, loss of amenity and any past or future financial losses.

Such claims are not just limited to being brought against the National Health Service. If you have been treated as a private patient and paid the doctor either personally or through your private health insurance, you may also be able to make a claim if your treatment is found to be below the standard that would normally be expected.

Due to the complexity of such claims, it is recommended that you seek the advice of an experienced solicitor as soon as possible.

Shortcomings in standards of care can occur when a failed or delayed diagnosis is given, there is a failure to warn of risk in treatment or to obtain proper consent to treatment, there are errors in medication, when surgical procedures are carried out carelessly or when there are delayed referrals to specialists.

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Thetford And District Dementia Support Launch New Befriending Service Thetford Library was a hub of excitement recently as it hosted the launch of TADDS new Befriending Service. Co-ordinated by Jo Cooper, the service has been funded by People’s Health Trust and the Health Lottery via the Royal Voluntary Service. Speaking about the new service Jo said, “I believe that this service is something that is very much needed, it will benefit lots of people who can’t physically access support services. I’m very proud to be co-ordinating it”.

Jo Mountjoy-Dixon, Steve Gaskin, Jo Cooper, Yvonne Warren from TADDS celebrate the launch of their new service.

Fellow TADDS trustee, Jo Mount-Joy Dixon continued, “It’s good to see that Thetford has a befriending support service. It sits well within what TADDS are doing. Dementia is not something that affects just older people. Often people can be carers whilst holding down a full time job and caring for someone with dementia. In the process of becoming a Dementia Friendly Town it is important that we recognise the many different aspects and age ranges of people affected by dementia. We need to be supportive to all.

visit Albie, Joy explained, “I want Albie to be able to have 1-1 support with someone who isn’t me, to give him something new to experience. It will also give me a chance to attend the TADDS carers group.” For volunteering info or to access the Befriending Service contact Jo Cooper on 07724175827 or email: taddsbefriending@hotmail.com To find out more about TADDS visit the website: www.thetford-dementia-support-group.org

45 people joined TADDS at the launch including a number of local councillors and health professionals. Thetford Town Council have supported the project by awarding a £2,000 medium grant to undertake a feasibility study last year. TADDS Chair Steve Gaskin explained, “The two Jo’s and Marie are the driving force of this project, I’m proud of the team who have taken TADDS from small beginnings to the Friday sessions and now expanded into this service.” Joy and Albie are amongst the first to use the service for Albie who was diagnosed with moderate to severe Alzheimers 3 years ago. They recently moved from Lakenheath to Thetford to be able access the TADDS Friday group and have built up a good network of Friends through TADDS. Talking about benefitting from having a Befriender to

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Tax Clinic By Colin Chamberlain

Delay To Roll Out Tax Free Childcare The government, in November, announced a delay to the roll out of tax free childcare, which was expected to be fully implemented by the end of 2017. From 24th November 2017 the service has been available to parents whose youngest child is under six or who has their sixth birthday on that day. Parents can apply online through the childcare service which can be accessed via the Childcare Choices website. In April 2017, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) started rolling out the childcare service via a single website through which parents can apply for both 30 hours free childcare and tax free childcare. The roll out started with parents of the youngest children first. HMRC acknowledge that over the summer some parents didn’t receive the intended level of service when using the website and that they have subsequently made significant improvements. For those parents who have had difficulties in accessing the service, compensation may be available. To see if compensation is available for you, view the childcare service compensation publication on the gov.uk website. Over the coming months, HMRC will gradually open the childcare service to parents of older children, whilst continuing to make further improvements to the system. HMRC hope this strategy of managing the volume of applications will result in prompt eligibility responses when parents apply, with ‘almost all parents receiving a response within five working days, and most getting their decision instantly’. All eligible parents will be able to apply by the end of March 2018. Parents will be able to apply for all their children at the same time, when their youngest child becomes eligible.

Pictured: Colin Chamberlain from Lovewell Blake

Tax free childcare is the new government scheme to help working parents, both employed and self employed, with the cost of childcare. For every £8 a parent pays in, the government will pay in an extra £2. Parents can receive up to £2,000 per child, per year, towards their childcare costs making up a total amount of £10,000. Higher limits of £4,000 and £20,000 apply for disabled children. To qualify for tax free childcare parents and partners in the household must generally meet a minimum income level of an average £120 a week and each earn less than £100,000 a year. The scheme will eventually be available for children up to the age of 12, or 17 for children with disabilities. Those eligible will be able to apply for all their children at the same time. Employer Supported Childcare, usually by way of childcare vouchers, will remain open to new entrants until April 2018 to support the transition between the schemes and it will continue to be available for current members if they wish to remain in it or they can switch to the new scheme. It is not possible to benefit from both employer supported childcare and tax free childcare at the same time. Colin Chamberlain is one of a team of tax consultants working for Lovewell Blake LLP. Colin and the team advise on all areas of mainstream UK tax. Colin can be contacted on 01842 755032 or at: c.chamberlain@lovewell-blake.co.uk Disclaimer: Please note that this article is provided for your information only. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy, information herein may not be comprehensive and you should not act upon it without seeking professional advice.

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Social Enterprise - A Kinder Way Of Doing Business A social enterprise, in simple terms, is a business with a good cause. It’s not a charity or community group it works like any other business; it trades products or services to generate profit but for a social purpose rather than just making people wealthier. Our passion at Pop Up Enterprises CIC (Community Interest Company) is helping young people succeed and recognise their full potential. This is why our surplus profit is reinvested back into helping us achieve our social mission and providing more opportunities for young people to gain the skills they need to lead happy and healthy lives. We have a team of experienced youth workers and trainers who deliver high quality youth work, employability and social enterprise programmes which help raise young people’s aspirations and prepare them for the world of work and adult life.

space for social entrepreneurs. We’re also working with partners to develop a Social Enterprise School and work placements for young people. We’re also busy working with MTM Youth Services to run our innovative Digital Buddies project, which is supported by Saffron Housing Trust and Norfolk Community Foundation. We’re training local young people to support older residents living in sheltered schemes to improve their digital skills. The project has helped to reduce feelings of loneliness and helped young people develop new communication and teaching skills.

Our projects provide young people with a wealth of experience through setting up and leading their own community projects and mini social enterprises. Last year we ran a successful project in Thetford funded by the Breckland Youth Advisory Board where young people designed and sold a range of products promoting anti-bullying. The young people involved gained experience and skills in running a business, designing and marketing a product and selling to the public. They also grew in confidence and developed an understanding of how business can be kinder. Currently, we’re excited to be working with the Missing Kind, a registered charity supporting dedicated individuals to make a difference to the world through inspiring kindness. We’re managing the Missing Kind venue and KindaKafe at 21-23 Castle Meadow, Norwich on behalf of the charity and leading on the expansion of their KindaBusiness Hub, which is a supportive co-working

If you’d like more information about our projects or advice on how to set up your own social enterprise email tom@popupenterprises.org.uk or pop in and see us at the Missing Kind, 21-23 Castle Meadow, Norwich. We look forward to meeting you! Tom Gaskin, CEO & Founder, Pop Up Enterprises

Got a business story for us? If you’re a business operating in the About Thetford area and you have an interesting story get in touch with the team! E-mail: aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com

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Thetford Parkrun Continuing To Thrive Thetford Parkrun celebrated some record attendances during the Christmas period. On Christmas Day 139 people braved the cold and enjoyed the festivities, beating the previous highest attendance in 2015 by 45. New Years Day parkrun event broke both the 2017 New Year Day record attendance of 175. The 299 attendance is currently the attendance record since the event started in 2013. Thetford Parkrun continues to have regular attendance of over 200 per week and will be celebrating its 5th anniversary on the 24th February. The anniversary event will be started by the Thetford Town Crier. The event takes place every Saturday morning, where participants can walk, jog or run the free timed 5k event. Please register at:

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Parkrun event director Melanie Sturman, also celebrated another marathon milestone by receiving a medal for completing 100 marathons in 100 weeks after completing the challenge in 96 weeks. Melanie saw the new award in the summer and initially thought who on earth would be able to complete 100 marathons in less than 2 years! After some thought Melanie sent in her marathon count sheet to Global Marathon Challenges who confirmed that she qualified for the award. The best part was actually completing the challenge without actually planning it. The thought of planning to run at that level now would put me in a state of panic. The award presented by Rik Vercoe, Director of Global Marathon Challenges on the 30th December. Melanie is working towards 300 marathons so she qualifies for the world mega marathon rankings and this year hopes to be the first British female to complete the 10 marathons in 10 day challenges for the 6th time.

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Welcome to 2018. Time For Nine!

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Spring is just around the corner and what better time to take up a new sport or come back to one you used to play! Feltwell Golf Club is a 9 Hole Course, so a round of golf doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take all day, you can easily play 9 holes in under 2 hours. Our rates are very competitive and as the land around us is so well-draining, rain does not phase us and we rarely close â&#x20AC;&#x201C; only, as I remember, if we are knee-deep in snow!!

Thetford Dolphins were represented by 34 swimmers at the recent Norfolk County Championships at Norwich UEA and a magnificent effort against some of the bigger clubs in the region produced 19 County Champions, 19 silver, 15 bronze, 49 finalists, 99 personal bests and 7 swimmers achieved the Regional Qualifying times.

So, new players to the game as well as those of you who have had to stop playing for a while, now is your opportunity to take up the challenge or get back into the game. We are organising a series of lessons for those of you who, like me, often need the knowledge and advice of a PGA Professional. Ladies can start by enrolling at our Group Lessons, being arranged for Friday mornings for anyone who would like to start playing as well as those of you who wish to refresh their game. Please see Facebook in the coming days for more information or contact either Lisa Nunn on: lisa@spectrumaluminium.com You can also contact Denise Whiting on 01842 862079 or message us through our Facebook Page. We are organising too some Group Lessons for Gents as well as opportunities for One to One classes for everyone, so contact us now for more details. Watch out too during 2018 for notices regarding an Open Day for everyone to come up to the Club, try out the course and see what Feltwell Golf Club has to offer you. For more information on Green Fees and joining rates please contact Kim Heybourne, Secretary at Feltwell Golf Club (next to Feltwell Air Base) 01842 827644 or Denise Whiting on 01842 862079. Remember you are never too young or too old to start playing golf and we look forward to seeing you soon at Feltwell Golf Club.

Members of Thetford Dolphins who competed at County Championships

Ben Buckley became a 9 time County Champion for the 50m, 100m & 200m back, 50m, 100, & 200m breast, 50m & 100m free and 200 IM along with 2 silvers. Aimee Dickerson became a triple County Champion for 100m & 200m breast and 200m IM along with 4 silvers & 1 bronze. Harry Fasey also a triple County Champion for 100m & 200m breast and 1500m free along with 1 silver and 3 bronze. Louis James for the 200m fly along with 6 silvers and 2 bronze and Alice Fasey 3 times County Champion for 200m, 400m & 8oom free along with 3 silvers and 2 bronze. Further medals for Alfie King 1 silver & 4 bronze, Francesca Long 2 silver & 2 bronze and Amie Copp 1 bronze. Well done to all who gained personal bests and showed that Dolphins can compete against the very best. Tony Darton Deadline for articles for the March 2018 edition of the About Thetford magazine will be the 15th February

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Thetford Parkrunner Of The Month Graham Williams - February Graham Williams started Thetford Parkrun on the 1st February 2014 with his wife and daughter Hope. At the time Graham weighed nearly 27 stone and had struggled with his weight for most of his life. With a physical job and a 4 year old daughter running around it was time for a change or face not seeing his daughter grow up. Graham had family members who had been attending Thetford Parkrun for most of its first year which made it a little easier to turn up on that 1st Saturday. Graham had seen what it had done for their health and weight loss so decided to give it a go. The response the family received from everyone there that day was unbelievable. Parkrun was supportive, friendly and positive and despite it taking nearly an hour to finish everyone clapped and cheered the family as they finished. Graham pictured at Parkrun during 2017

and 20 marathons. Graham says starting Parkrun was one of the best choices he and his wife ever made, not only have we lost weight and got healthier but we have made so many new friends. Parkrun has changed our lives. This April Graham will be running the London Marathon after having to defer from last year due to injury. Graham will be running for 2 charities very close to his heart Breast Cancer Now for his sister Lisa who has battled and beaten Breast Cancer twice, finishing her latest treatment just last year and for Parkinson's UK for his granddad who he lost in March 2017. Graham pictured at Parkrun during 2014

Grahamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charity Page Link is: http://bit.ly/2n281H0 He would be grateful for any donations that the local community are able to give. You can also find the page by visiting the Virgin Moneygiving page and searching for Graham Williams.

Parkrun support made it so much easier to keep going back week after week. Through Parkrun and following the Slimming World plan, Graham managed to lose 9 stone within a year and his wife also lost over 4 stone herself. Within 5 months of starting parkrun Graham had completed his first 10km race at East Harling with Parkrun Event Director Melanie Sturman by his side. In March 2015 Graham completed his first half marathon at Silverstone racetrack and in July 2015 Graham finished his 1st Marathon at the Great Barrow Challenge in Suffolk. These are all things Graham would have never ever thought possible Graham has now managed to complete 125 parkruns, obstacle races, numerous 10km events one of which was in France representing Thetford, 8 half marathons

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