MARCH 2017 About Thetford magazine by About Thetford magazine

Circulation 12,000 copies

Issue 136 March 2017

Your Local Independent Community Magazine

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RE-OPENING FRIDAY MARCH 3RD A warm welcome awaits you at The Ark

Formerly The Deer’s Leap, Norwich Road, Thetford 01842 762223

Family Sports Bar Restaurant Kid’s Play Zone Sunday Carvery 12– 5pm Live Music Function Room available for Hire

LIVE MUSIC IN MARCH FROM 9PM Friday 10th

Friday 17th

Sensational Yorkshire Vocalist Laine performs hits by some of the greatest Pop Divas from the 1960s up to today Guitar vocalist Liam Madison is one of Lincolnshire’s favourite entertainers with a show full of chart busting hits from the 60s onwards

out Thetford Welcome to March’s Ab and with Easter on the Spring is firmly in the air now tion on page 5 to win peti horizon we’ve got a great com Pages 4 - The Fair Is Coming To Town Country Fair. and e Gam lian passes to the East Ang Pages 6 & 7 - Out And About Thetford groups who are all about This month I’ve met several Page 10- U3A To Host Charity Open Day p grou S er place. The RAG making Thetford an even bett to m Page 13 - Thetford Past and Present drea r thei d achieve on the Redcastle Estate have 4). (p.2 play and t mee Page 15 - Trefoil Guild Calls It A Day to give children a great place ent stud ted hos e hav d tfor The Page 16 & 17 - Leaping Hare Both senior schools in ng our young people the Page 18 - Thetford Amnesty Group led performances, not only givi ip skills but for some it’s opportunity to develop leadersh their dream (p.7). As part Pages 18 & 19 - Civic Group News ng ievi another step towards ach was lucky enough to have Page 20 - Burrell Museum To Re-open of Thetford Business Forum, I and heard from Richard Pages 26 & 27 - Health & Beauty a tour round Warren Services his dream of providing Page 29 - Garden & Allotment Club lling how he has succeeded in fulfi ng people in the town. Page 30- BTO Column -Spring Sounds good apprenticeships for the you of Page 33 - Community Corner one by ted hos t nigh y curr For details of a charity for local children, turn Page 35 - Haart Joins About Thetford our advertisers, raising money embarking on her dream to page 24. Another person Page 37 - Cats Protection Advice Caroline King, who has st is our Beauty Geek columni ut Page 45 & 46 - Sports News abo read e. You can developed her own product rang Front cover image by Lee Lewis - River Thet Caroline’s journey on page 27. Best wishes, Karen With Zaks Restaraunt In Background

Inside this month...

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 3HL Publisher; In And About Thetford Ltd, C/o Charles Burrell Centre, Staniforth Road, Thetford IP24 3HL 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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Spring is in the air and the time is fast approaching to get outside and enjoy our fabulous local environment. The East Anglian Game & Country Fair returns on Saturday 22 nd & Sunday 23rd April 2017 at the beautiful new venue of Euston Estate, by kind permission of The Duke and Duchess of Grafton. Showcasing everything that is great about life in the country, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities from falconry displays, craft demonstrations, all things equestrian, to clay shooting & fly fishing. For dog lovers of all kinds, there’s a wealth of competitions and displays including K9 Aqua Sports© and Mid-Norfolk Gundog Club. With over 350 shopping stands, animal encounters for children of all ages and local chefs including celebrity chef Chris Coubrough appearing in the Game Fair Country Kitchen – there really is something for everyone! The Dog & Duck pop-up onsite pub will be serving a great selection of local beers and drinks and is hosting live music during the day and on Saturday evening. Why not make a weekend of it and book a space in the walled garden for a great camping experience. For more information and to book tickets visit www.ukgamefair.co.uk or call 01263 735828

Win a family ticket to the

EUSTON ESTATE APRIL 22nd & 23rd To win one of 5 Family tickets worth £46 to giveaway for this Spring’s hottest Country Fair simply answer this question:

What is the name of the pub at the Game & Country Fair this year?

Send your answer by email with your name & full contact details to our partners at Leaping Hare by Friday 7th April: info@leapinghare.org The winners will be drawn from a hat by Assistant Editor Karen on April 10th Normal In & About Thetford Ltd T&Cs apply, please see our website for more details www.aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

Out & About Thetford

Wedding Fair triumph at the Charles Burrell centre Ellie Elizabeth Bridal Boutique celebrated the

opening of their new shop by hosting the first Wedding Fair at the Charles Burrell Centre. The main hall makes a great venue for a wedding reception or celebration party and was a fitting backdrop for the wedding fair. Local Toastmaster Mike Wabe greeted guests on arrival and a fashion show featuring gowns from the boutique provided the entertainment. The event attracted a great selection of suppliers, many from Thetford who were happy to discuss how they would make your wedding a day to remember. Speaking about the event Ellie said “I thought it went really well, lots of people commented how lovely the dresses were. We’re planning to do another fair next year and to make it much bigger. We also stock prom dresses and would like to showcase these as part of our next event” For more information about the boutique please go to www.ellieelizabethbridal.co.uk

Museum opens new exhibition Ancient House Museum of

Thetford Life hosted the official opening of Pulp, Pin Trays, Pails and Pots the Story of Thetford Pulpware on February 3rd. Guests included John Ward Chair of Norfolk Joint Museums Committee, representatives from Centurion Safety Products, members of the Friends Committee, Teenage History Club, local councillors and the Mayor of Thetford, Cllr Terry Jermy with his consort Corinne Fulford. The exhibition focuses on Thetford’s best loved and most unique industry. After a 10 year absence it’s a welcome return to see so many of these locally made and beautifully crafted objects on display. Thetford Patent Pulp Company was founded in 1879, the company still exists in a modern factory and is now known as Centurion Safety Products. Originally the company concentrated on helmet manufacture and 150 useful household objects before producing ‘art wares’ during the 1920s and 30s. Curator Oliver Bone told About Thetford that he was delighted to see the museum’s collection on display again and that he hoped that the local community would enjoy viewing objects uniquely made in the town. For more information go to www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

Students bring the roaring twenties to life Thetford

Academy was taken back almost 100 years in time as the 6th Form Performing Arts students brought the Great Gatsby to life. Directed by Karis Ahmed, all the cast had great stage presence and were faultless in their delivery. The audience added to the occasion by dressing in 1920s style eveningwear and producing an impressive array of flappers and sharp dressed gentlemen! Several of the cast are active members of the Thetford Players and it was a delight to see them perform on their home turf. Jacob Bell stole the show exuding the raw arrogance of a rich and threatened young man as Tom Buchanan. Connor Browne and Eray Ozsoy had the audience captivated with their portrayals of Nick Carraway and Jay Gatsby. Frankie Soan played the perfect trophy socialite Daisy Buchanan alongside Paris Phillips as Jordan Baker. Strong performances from the supporting cast of Zoran Hanitzsch, Yasmin Maloy, and Jessica Howell and Thomas Chamberlain ensured the audience was kept on their toes watching the drama unfold. Thomas also proved his versatility by playing three completely different characters. All the students involved should be congratulated for bringing the story to the audience, not only using the stage but also interacting and moving amongst the audience. Speaking about the performance one of the audience said “I’ve never read the story before, I’ve heard about the film but never watched it but this was just great, I loved it.”

Curiouser and curiouser cried Alice at TGS

The annual school production at Thetford Grammar School moved between two venues for a double bill of Lewis Carroll classics. For Alice in Wonderland, Old School created the perfect traverse set and allowed the cast to interact with the audience. Sophie RoseLand as Alice’s big sister and narrator held the story together, whilst Maia Chalfen as the Duchess and Cecily White as the Queen of Hearts captivated the audience with their elaborate costumes and quirky performances. Charles Mead and Ben Doyle staring a as the Mad Hatter and March Hare, brought Carroll’s curious tale to life with a tea party like no other ever held in Old School! Williamson Hall was the second venue of the evening for Alice Through the Looking Glass. Although more traditionally performed using a stage set, Alfie Bloomfield and Tom Buckley’s unique take on characters Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum produced roars of laughter from the audience. Franzi Elders provided a delightfully potty White Queen and Madeline Trussell as the second Alice of the evening will be one to watch in future productions. Charles, Ben and Alfie not only made their final performances before finishing in year 13, but also joined the long line of successful student directors who make the productions their own and created another evening to remember. Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

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Link-Up - Talking Newspaper

Community Projects wanted

Link-Up is a Thetford-based charity that provides a free fortnightly talking newspaper for people who are blind or sight-impaired. We currently have a need for 4 volunteers to work in Post-Production. The task is not particularly onerous, and will take you about 30-45 minutes when you are rostered on. Your services will be required on a Thursday evening from about 6:45pm, but you will be required to get to the Grammar School.

Community groups and schools in Thetford and the surrounding area are needed to apply for a local funding scheme. ‘Bags of Help’ is Tesco’s local community grant scheme where the money raised from the 5p bag levy in Tesco stores is being used to fund thousands of community projects across the UK. The projects must meet the criteria of promoting community participation and use of outdoor spaces.

The task will involve some or all of copying the master USB stick onto sticks to go out to our listeners, checking the sticks before despatch, and assisting with despatch. Full training and support will be given and you will always be with at least one other fully trained volunteer.

Once applications have been assessed to ensure they are eligible, Tesco short listing groups decide which projects go forward for the in-store vote. Three community projects will be voted on in Tesco stores, the project receiving the most votes will receive a grant up to £5,000, the second placed project up to £2,000 and the third up to £1,000. Sarah Douthwaite, Community Champion at Thetford Tesco said “I encourage everyone to apply, even schools. We want to get as many Thetford groups selected as possible, so now we need groups to put themselves forward and apply. We want Thetford to take full advantage of the funding that’s available.” For more information ask for Sarah or Tracy Thomas in the Thetford Store or visit” www.groundwork.org.uk/Sites/ tescocommunityscheme

For more information, or to offer your services, please call 01842 755131 or email: contact@linkupbreckland.org.uk

Open Week in Norfolk to Help Those With Hearing Loss One in six people in UK have a hearing problem, and if you think this sounds familiar there hasn’t been a better time to have your hearing checked. Hearing tests and professional advice are being made available free of charge to encourage people to take that first step. Local hearing care specialists, The Hearing Care Centre, who visit centres across Norfolk have organised seven ‘Hearing Care Open Days’ between 9am and 5pm at a number of locations, the Thetford one takes place on; • Friday 24th March 2017 (9am-5pm) Healthy Living Centre, Thetford

The Old Rent Office King’s House, King Street THETFORD Norfolk. IP24 2AP

For a full list of dates and times at locations across Norfolk, please visit: www.aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk

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Charity Open Day - U3A Thetford University of the Third Age is holding its Open Day on Thursday 23 March 1.45 pm at the Breckland Leisure Centre, Main Hall, Croxton Road, Thetford IP241JD. If you are retired or semi-retired, living in Thetford and surrounding area, this is your chance to see the variety of activities on offer! From sports to languages, travel, games, photography, science, cookery, gardening, lunch club and many more, there is something for all tastes! As the event is at the Leisure Centre, we are making the most of the facilities: you will have the opportunity to try badminton, short tennis and table tennis (please make sure you wear suitable clothing and footwear) and to view the indoor bowling facilities where our U3A indoor bowls group practises every Tuesday afternoon.

Pension Action In Norfolk (PAIN) PAIN / WASPI Group are travelling to London on Wednesday 8th March 2017 to take part in the National WASPI Demonstration. WASPI stands for ‘Women Against State Pension Inequality. This is a national group for women who were born in the 50s and are victims of state pension age changes and are joining up with other groups across the country to protest. For more information please email: pensionactioninnorfolk@yahoo.co.uk

We are friendly people eager to learn, have a laugh, live life to the full and enjoy the present! Come, look around and speak to group leaders who will be delighted to explain everything you need to know about their groups. Annual membership is £20 for an individual and £36.50 for a couple.

Book Sale For Cancer Research UK

From Thursday 2nd March (World Book Day), until Sunday 12th March at Thetford Methodist Church and outside on Saturday 4th March. £2. Some great bargains to be had! Please ring 01842 761826 if you have books you would like to donate.

We look forward to seeing you on Thursday 23 March! For more information visit www.thetfordu3a.org

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Life in America’s Wild West One of America’s iconic Midwest States was the unlikely subject of a talk to Thetford Probus by Suffolk-based writer Fraser Harrison. Explaining his fascination with South Dakota to Probus members, Mr Harrison said he had visited the State many times over the past 20 years, drawn there by its rich history and the amazingly diverse scenery. He had discovered that South Dakota is the stuff of legends; home to proud American Indians like the Sioux, expeditions led by US Calvary General Custer, the Gold Rush, ‘Wild Bill’ Hickok and Deadwood Gulch, the town he helped make famous and, of course, the Dust Bowl which made the Great Depression of the 1930s so devastating.

Speaker Fraser Harrison points to one of South Dakota’s most famous tourist attractions, the Mount Rushmore monument of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. Another figurehead of Sioux Chief Crazy Horse is being carved into a nearby mountain.

Perhaps the strangest milestone in its history was how the sprawling 77,000 square mile territory became part of the United States in what is known as the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 during Thomas Jefferson’s presidency. With a dozen other territories, North and South Dakota were snapped up from the French for $15 million.

By the time he concluded his talk, his audience, too, felt they had experienced their own extraordinary trip into America’s Wild West. Fraser Harrison’s book about South Dakota, Infinite West, is available on Amazon.

Perhaps the most unexpected bonus of this bargain buy was the discovery that South Dakota had the world’s biggest deposit of dinosaur bones. The new owners and occupation by settlers from the East, spelt conflict with American Indians, who were forced into ever smaller reservations. The outcome for them was disastrous and their way of life, which had depended on hunting huge herds of Buffalo, changed forever. Aided by many atmospheric pictures, some haunting in their portrayal of deprivation, but others stunning in their beauty of the vast and varied landscape, Mr Harrison ably captured the character of a State he has come to know and love so well.

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Calling 999 Is For Emergencies – Plea After Inappropriate Calls Made to EEAST A rat bite, a broken toe nail and a woman who wanted an escort home are just the latest ‘emergency’ calls received by the region’s ambulance service. New figures today reveal that the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) received 312 hoax calls between April and December last year, which diverted time away from genuine emergencies. This is in addition a number of other calls into the Emergency Operations Centres (EOC) where alternatives to an emergency ambulance would be more appropriate. As part of the It’s Your Call campaign and EOC takeover week, the service are highlighting calls like these to make people think twice about calling 999: A woman who needed an escort home to breastfeed. There was too much traffic. A man who was bitten by a rat the day before. He was advised to go to his GP. A man who had broken his toe nail.

real emergencies. We’d urge the public to remember that the ambulance service is for emergencies such as cardiac arrests, patients with chest pain and breathing difficulties, unconsciousness, strokes, trauma, choking and severe allergic reactions. Please consider the use of other services such as your local pharmacy, GP or by calling 111 if it isn’t an emergency”. The Trust launched It’s Your Call campaign two years ago, which aims to inform people and educate others on how 999 calls are handled and prioritised so that in the event of a medical problem, they feel better equipped to know what to do. For more information, visit: www.eastamb.nhs.uk/your-service/campaigns/ its-your-call.htm

Gary Morgan, Deputy Director of Service Delivery (EOC), said: “It is extremely disappointing that people continue to call 999 for inappropriate reasons as these 999 calls have the potential to divert attention away from

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GC-LIFT 12393

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Past & Present

The past photograph was taken by local photographer, David Lord, in 1996. No one could have imagined, at the time, that the prominent Thermos factory would completely disappear within two decades.

Photographs from the David Osborne Collection.

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The sad day has come when Thetford Trefoil Guild has decided to close down. We began in 1993 and have had 24 wonderful years of fun and friendship together. Being involved in Guiding has meant some of us have been friends for much longer. So, it’ll now be catch-ups over coffee and possible lunches together. Unfortunately, our Guild isn’t growing in numbers and inevitably we’re all getting of a certain age and with that come restrictions! Our Treasurer has been in post for most of those 24 years and is ready to hand over her role, as is the Chairman, but with no-one ready to take over these roles, it was felt that perhaps the time had come to gracefully call it a day.

Possibly our finest hour was organising the County Trefoil Guild Fun Day at the Bidwell Centre in 2015. Being a small group we put on a very successful and happy day for all involved. Our “swan song” is to be at the District Thinking Day Church Service this year where we’ve been asked to be involved, with one of our members carrying the Union Flag at the head of the procession. This lady was very proud to be asked. We’ve also been asked to explain the meaning of Thinking Day to the congregation and then naturally to provide the tea and biscuits afterwards. So it’s a sad farewell from Thetford Trefoil Guild but we’ll continue to keep our Guiding Promise and will go well and safely. Barbara Youngs

Sad though this is, we can fill our hearts with joy at the memories and wonderful things we’ve achieved. We’ve gone on several outings together, including going to the Foundling Museum in London, a day out to Ely and a day to Felixstowe Docks delivering the hats we’d knitted for the seafarers. We’ve knitted Teddies for Tragedies, and these found good homes with the Fire Service and Police Station. We also continue to knit hats for prem babies at West Suffolk Hospital. We’ve had craft competitions for the District Guides, sponsored them in some of their activities and been there when needed. Raising money has been a pleasure, especially when it comes to organising Pudding Evenings! These were excellent and there were lots of yummy puddings to try. Cake stalls have been a success and our Dot’s tombola stalls are legendary; she manages to collect many unwanted items for those, and together with other members’ help, we have raised lovely sums for deserving charities.

Songs of Praise at Thursford! On Sunday 2nd April the Thetford Methodist Choir will sing in the Thursford Choir at a 1000 strong Songs of Praise at Thursford. We have booked a 45 seater coach, leaving the new Thetford Bus Station at 1pm. The mighty Wurlitzer will feature, there will be a band and the celebrity guest is Pam Rhodes. The total cost will be £8.50 so if you would like to come with us and be part of the congregation please call 01842 761 Peter 1 20/02/2017 14:46 Pag 826Doggett or email;Advert_Layout ruswebber12@btinternet.com

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Thetford’s Great Directory has proven so popular that we have been approached to create directories for others. We proudly launched the brand new Breckland Youth Directory at the February Breckland Youth Conference. If you want to reach a young audience or you are looking for services and activities for age 11 up, check out www.brecklandyouthdirectory.org

Why not treat Mum by taking her to one of the great places to eat in town or a fabulous event? You can find all you need at leapinghare.org. We also have some beautiful gifts, including a brilliant range of soaps and bath bombs from Stepping Stones Emporium. Prices from just £2.50 with multi packs and gift sets available too. There will be more new arrivals coming in soon, we are just about to take delivery of our Thetford’s Great biscuits, fudge and sweets range. Great gifts and souvenirs.

Sun 5 March Table Top Sale Mon 6 March Weekly Story Café Tues 7 March Development English Surnames Sat 11 March Thetford Crafts & Stalls Fair Sun 12 March Thetford Forest Trail 10k Sun 12 March Mud & Mayhem Duathlon Mon 13 March Flying The Flag Ceremony Wed 15 March GTDP Community Meeting Sat 18 March Dad’s Army Museum opens Sat 25 March Daffodil Tea Barnham Sat 25 March Celebration of English Music Sun 26 March Dad’s Army Walking Tour Thurs 30 March Dragons and Knights for U5s Thurs 30 March The Light Madama Butterfly Fri 31 March Charles Burrell Reunion Party Sat 1 April Animal Trackers Sat 1 April Only The Brave Mud Obstacle Run Mon 3 April Mayor’s Charity Dinner at the Raj

Sat 8 April Gamescon 2017 Fri 21 April WAW Wrestling Sat 22 – Sun 23 April East Anglian Game & Country Fair Sat 22 April 1960’s & 1970's Party Night

Don’t forget that the clocks "spring forward" and we lose an hour on Sunday 26th March - this year falls on the same day as Mother’s Day.

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Thetford AI Group Amnesty International (AI) is a global movement of more than 7 million people who take injustice personally. We are campaigning for a world where human rights are enjoyed by all.

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We are funded by members, ordinary people. We are independent of any political ideology, economic interest or religion. No government is beyond scrutiny. No situation is beyond hope. Few would have predicted when we started that torturers would become international outlaws. That most countries would abolish the death penalty and seemingly untouchable dictators would be made to answer for their crimes. Our members believe that it is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.

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Thetford has had an AI Group for many years. The Group meets monthly on a Thursday at 6:30pm in The Bell Hotel lounge. We write letters to government authorities for individuals at risk, usually prisoners of conscience (“PoC”). A PoC is someone who has been imprisoned for expressing their opinion without violence or its threat; often without trial or on a trumped up charge. Letters to authorities lead to the release of about 30% of PoCs and an improvement in prison conditions for most others. We also write to the individuals themselves. This gives them hope in a dark place. Group Contact john_simong@hotmail.com

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Inner Wheel At our monthly meeting on 2nd February we welcomed Dr Clive Duke, an Anaesthetist at West Suffolk Hospital, who gave a moving talk about his experiences working for the charity Operation Smile. This charity is an International Medical Charity that performs cleft lip and cleft palate surgery mostly on young children in the third world countries. These operations are performed by volunteers who give their time and expertise for free to help the children, to improve their ability to breathe, eat, drink and speak. The difference these operations make to their lives is amazing as many of them would be discriminated against because of the disability, making Operation Smile's motto Changing Lives One Smile at a Time so apt.

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Lionesses Raise Charity Funds

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Miranda McCoy from St Nicholas Hospice Care was invited to Thetford (Breckland) Lioness Club. Past President Dorothy presented her with cheque for £1000 in support of Nicky’s Way. Nicky’s Way is open to any child or young person who has been bereaved and is a resident of West Suffolk or Thetford. Support and lasting friendships can develop for those who attend. Those wishing to know more about Nicky’s Way may call the Hospice on 01284 766133.

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Thetford Inner Wheel held a very successful Burns Lunch on Sunday 29th January which was enjoyed by several members and their guests at Croxton Pictured: Colin Mackay Village Hall. Thanks must go parading the Haggis at to Cathy Witton and Annalee the Burns Lunch Clarke who organised the event. The Inner Wheel would also like to thank everyone who supported them as over £800 was raised for charities, local, national and international.

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Are you a member of a local group? or visit www.ovenclean.com toIf find so, your sendlocal us specialist an email with details of your activities and we may be able to include them in future editions. Deadline for inclusion in the April 2017 edition is the 15th March 2017. Send all content through to: E-mail: karen@aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk Website: www.aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk

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The February meeting started with a review of recent and upcoming events. The RAF Honington graduation parade was enjoyed by all, with the RAFs Central Band doing their very best to warm up the occasion on what was a particularly cold day. The RAF Regiment Heritage Centre trip was something that all agreed could be repeated soon in order to fully see all the exhibits. A cultural insight into the battle area at Stanford is scheduled for 21 May.

Lorne Greene, Norfolk Police and Crime Commissioner who was the guest speaker at the February meeting of the Thetford Society

Our guest speaker was the Norfolk Police and Crime Commissioner Lorne Greene who gave us a detailed insight into his background and in particular his election promises. His concerns on graffiti in Thetford, and the efforts he made to eradicate the very worst of it, were his first priority. He went on to explain the demands that are placed on a modern Police Force that numbers 1,472 in a Norfolk community of 880,000. Despite investment in the latest technology to keep the police out of the office, and provision of body-worn video cameras to help prevent spurious complaints, there simply aren’t enough constables on the streets. The current world has many complexities that result in an unavoidable amount of police time spent doing investigations behind computers, dealing with the unseen but serious crimes of domestic abuse, child exploitation, and cyber bullying. Mr Greene is a firm believer in the Police and public working together; whether that be reporting crimes by dialling 999/101 or liaison with the community police officers and neighbourhood watch. He was keen to explain that the thinking behind moving the police desk into the Library was an attempt to increase the availability of the service and reduce costs. He did concede however, that it was

clearly misunderstood and unpopular, and the trial has now ended. He made it clear that our Police Station was never under threat of closure. Happy to take questions from the audience there were no shortage of views from society members. The Commissioner took notes on many of our concerns such as anti-social behaviour (in particular street drinking), the Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), CCTV and speed-watch equipment. He finished the evening by pledging to return answers on how the Safer Thetford Action Group (STAG) and local Police could be involved in the creation of PSPOs for our town, Speedwatch equipment and volunteer CCTV manning. Thetford Society: Next Meeting Will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 7th March at the United Reformed Church on Earls Street. The subject of the evening will be “The Development of English Surnames” by Derek Palgrave. New members are always welcome. Safer Thetford Action Group: Next Meeting This will be on Thursday 6th April, 7pm, in the Small Court of the Guildhall, Thetford

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Fundraising Launched For Balcony The former assembly hall at Charles Burrell Centre has become a popular venue for large functions and shows. In recent months the hall has hosted a number of events including the Mayor’s Civic Reception, gymnastic shows, wedding receptions and live music nights. The capacity of the hall can also extend into our café area, increasing the number of guests we can cater for. We have the potential to expand further by bringing a viewing balcony back into use. Currently, we are raising funds to repair a fire exit staircase which is preventing the space from being utilised due to rust and corrosion.

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The balcony which was used during school shows can seat a further 150 people whilst offering a birds eye view of the stage and performance area. With a number of events lined up for 2017 including a boxing show and a cheerleading show, work is ongoing to raise £3,500 to cover the costs of the repair work. Staff and volunteers at the centre are hosting a number of events such as a 5k Fun Run on Sunday 9th April, indoor car boot sales and furniture sales with all proceeds going towards the repair work. To find out more about the progress or to help support fund raising efforts please visit :

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Lee said; “Several of my customers have been talking about how great it is to have someone actively supporting children and young people in Thetford so I wanted to do my bit”. The charity curry evening takes place on Monday 3rd April. Doors open at 6.30pm for a 7pm start. The cost is £18 per person which includes appetisers on arrival, a starter, a main course, including vegetable dishes and tea and coffee. Advanced booking only as there are a limited number of tables available. Profits from the event go towards supporting the Mayor’s charity fund - which will be split between local groups supporting children and young people.

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Redcastle Play Area Officially Opens A brand new play area has now officially opened on the Redcastle Estate in Thetford following several years of fundraising by local residents. The Redcastle Action Group - the local tenants and residents’ association for Redcastle, raised £6,000 towards the new equipment costs. Donna Warnock, Cathy Morgan, Livvy Renwick, Kate Mansfield and Stan Wells organised a number of community fund raising events helping to reach the £40,000 needed for the re-fit. They have earned a big thank you from the town and their local community for all their hard work. Breckland Council made a grant of £13,080 and the balance of £20,920 will come from the Town Council’s earmarked play park reserves. Councillor Brenda Canham Chair of the Town Council Amenities Committee said “We are really pleased to see the major improvements that are being completed at Redcastle. We are also pleased to be able to upgrade all the play areas in Thetford that we are responsible for”. The Town Council is also planning to repair seven parks in the Town. The parks scheduled for improvements are Castle Park, Pine Close, Harriet Martineau Close,

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At the Redcastle Play Area opening ceremony Poppy Warnock, aged 8 (left), Keegan Buxton, aged 9 (centre) and Lola Holt, aged 9 (right)

Fairfields, Elm Road, Bergamont Close and Edinburgh Way. As well as repairing the broken equipment all the play surfaces will be repaired and the play equipment will be painted. These works will be phased over the Spring period so that they are completed by the Summer. Once all the repairs are completed, the Town Council are looking to keep the play parks in tip top condition and they need your help! They’re recruiting Play Park Monitor volunteers who will help with litter picking and report any damage. If you would be interested in helping please contact Roz Barnett – Tel No 07553 388552 or 01842 754038

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Spring Into Action

Halcyon Days

Trying to preserve a youthful skin is actually easier than trying to repair skin that has been abused for decades. Here are just a few tips for healthy, younger looking skin:

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Number one has to be Sun Protection. More than anything else the sun is largely responsible for wrinkles, blotchy pigmentation, liver spots, together with many skin conditions. So it goes without saying the importance of wearing a sunscreen (minimum SPF15) and sunglasses to protect the delicate eye area has never been more important. Smoking and smokey environments can cause lines and wrinkles as well as dilated broken capillaries. It restricts the blood vessels and depletes the absorption of vitamins. Fitness - try and take plenty of exercise. Carrying extra weight in areas under the chin, neck and cheeks can give the skin an older appearance. Drink plenty of water to help with re-hydration of skin and aid removal of toxins. Sleeping positionsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sleeping on your face can cause sleep wrinkles! Sleeping in the same position most of the night for years can permanently crease your skin. Scary stuff I know, so try sleeping on your back instead maybe with a lumbar support pillow.

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Product Developing After being in the industry as a beauty therapist for over 20 years and using numerous products, around two years ago I decided the time was right the create my own range. I started to research & develop my own products despite many of my peers telling me that I’d never get the project off the ground. A sudden death in my family was the push I needed to have the confidence to follow my dream, it also offered me a focus and an escape. I found the process of formulating products cathartic and this continues today. Making a beauty product is not as easy as it first sounds, I have enjoyed researching and learning about chemistry of ingredients and how they all work together. Sending my formulations off to get the legal certification is nerve wracking and at times I wondered if I will ever get to the end game. My background in beauty, I feel has helped me enormously. I know how lovely it feels to be pampered although I’ve been the one usually doing the pampering. So it’s important to me that my products offer a sense of wellbeing as well as look and smell nice.

One of Caroline’s creations - A cake themed bar of soap

My biggest reward is seeing the finished product and hearing the great feedback. Everyone who knows me, knows I love a bit of sparkle so it’s been great fun to create my bath bombs and soaps, but also to make a move into the male grooming market. I’ve been told my beard oil is fantastic by one of my customers. My most recent mini range of bath bombs and cupcakes have been created to support Macmillan Cancer. If you have the passion and the drive, follow your heart and don’t listen to the negative people. My Mum is smiling down on me and feeling proud, I know she is. Make your next chapter, one you want to read! Until next month, Caroline x

These days you can find me experimenting with English Rhubarb and cream, Chinese rose, sweet pea, citrus and even chocolate and caramel fragrances to create the perfect products.

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Thetford Garden and Allotment Club Gardening Notes For March The sudden absence of courgettes and shortage of lettuce in the supermarkets last month was a bit of a reality check. The dependence of our vegetable and fruit supply on weather, let alone political and economic stability, is not something we generally think about. However, there are vegetables that can be grown in this area and which will stand the cold weather or can be stored for use in the winter. So, let’s appreciate our seasonal vegetables; leeks and winter cabbage, parsnips and kale - and those we can store; onions and carrots, potatoes and swede. And it won’t be long before we can pick forced rhubarb, the most delicate of flavours. So perhaps plan a row of leeks for next winter and think about splitting the rhubarb crowns to double your supply. One winter vegetable that grows really easily in this area is the Jerusalem artichoke. Apparently, this contains a high proportion of inulin which gives a great boost to the beneficial bacteria in the gut. However, it can have rather exciting effects on the digestion so, if you have never eaten it before, try one, well-cooked, in a vegetable soup and build up your tolerance gradually. It has an unusual taste and is much enjoyed by those who can handle it. The plant grows up to about 8ft tall and has yellow flowers in the autumn if there has been a warm summer, making an interesting addition to the veg area. For the first time a week or two ago I saw a muntjac deer in our front garden. I knew that they were a real problem on the Cloverfield Estate but thought they did not care for our area. Perhaps the recent clearance of brush and fencing of Barnham Common has driven them to look for new territory. I don’t know what it ate but can guarantee it wasn’t any of my fine weeds! I found a long list of plants that muntjac do not like on english-country-gardens.com and am pleased to see that my snowdrops and daffodils are likely to survive. However, roses are apparently one of their favourite snacks. It is of small comfort to know that they are the oldest known type of deer; having developed more than 15 million years ago, they are spreading

‘Frank’ the Muntjac deer in the garden of About Thetford reader Julian Sanders’ garden

merrily across the country with no natural predator. What was that they were saying about introducing lynx to the forest.... If you have a veg patch, this is the last opportunity to make a plan for your planting. Once the weather grows milder, you will be too busy, not just with seed planting but fighting the rampaging weeds which are just waiting to take over. In an ideal world, we would all manage neat crop rotation so that leafy produce gets the most nitrogen. for example, and then is grown in a different area to avoid pest build up and nutrient exhaustion. A plan gives you time to think about what grew where last year and to prepare the right area of your plot for your seeds, sets and tubers. The club meeting this month is at the usual time of 7.30pm on Thursday 30 March at the United Reformed Church. The subject is “Flavours and Fragrances” with the speaker being John Forbes. You can get more details there about the trip on the 10th June to Knebworth House with its fantastic gardens, and book a seat. The cost will be £21. There will also be geranium plugs available at 50p for entry into the competition at the annual show in September to see who can bring their plant on most successfully. Everyone has a windowsill so why not give this a go. Members can find a fuller list of things to do in the club diary. Happy gardening!, Sue Pilgrim

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Springing The Changes Spring is officially sprung in March, and our birds know it. Now is the time of a mass bird movement, where we say goodbye to many birds that have stopped here for winter, taking advantage of our relatively mild climate, and we start welcoming back our summer visitors, who migrate here to breed. Birds we’re now bidding farewell to include many waterfowl. Look to the skies and you might see lines of Bewick’s Swans heading away from their wintering strongholds in the fens, east over the North Sea eventually north to their Arctic tundra breeding grounds. Other waterbirds leaving include many ducks, such as Teal, and those large flocks of Pink-footed Geese - so characteristic of the Norfolk coast in winter - making their way to Iceland to breed. Smaller birds are departing too. Redwings and Fieldfares are commonly seen in the countryside and even in gardens in winter, but many of these also now make their way north-east, as do several of the colourful finches found around Norfolk in winter, including Siskins and Bramblings, and perhaps those most exotic of all winter visitors, Waxwings.

A Chiffchaff, photographed by Moss Taylor.

of central Africa back to their UK breeding grounds. Simply visit www.bto.org/cuckoos, and if you’d like to support our research on this iconic, yet endangered, species, you can also sponsor one of our tagged birds. As you notice birds arriving and departing, don’t forget you can record all your daily sightings using our BirdTrack App (www.birdtrack.net), and we will use your data to study important questions like how climate change is affecting our birds. Viola Ross-Smith, BTO Deadline for articles and adverts to be included in the April 2017 edition will be the 15th March. E-mail: karen@aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk

Don’t worry about the skies being empty though. Our first Swallows start returning in March, completing their immense spring migration from South Africa! Other birds beginning to come back to breed include the tiny and closely related Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers, returning from southern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa respectively, whose delightful and characteristic song will brighten any country walk. It will still be a little while before you can hear that ultimate sound of spring, a calling Cuckoo.

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Re-Skims

Grow Shed – A New Community Garden The Grow Shed is one of two exciting Men’s Shed ventures in Thetford run by Keystone Development Trust as part of the UK Men’s Shed Association movement. The Shed concept came to the UK from Australia in 2009 and there are currently around 300 active Sheds throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The concept of a Men’s Shed is simple: they provide a safe and supportive space for men to come to do practical bits and bobs and socialise with other likeminded men. Not long after the first Shed project (the Bike Shed) opened its doors last October, Keystone were donated some allotments on the Mundford Road by the Thetford Town Council which were to become the site of the Grow Shed. When Keystone took over the allotments they were a wilderness of old plants and debris.

The Grow Shed is open Wednesdays from 11 – 1pm and anyone interested can pop along to the allotments (Station Lane entrance) for a cuppa and a chat. If gardening isn’t for you but you’re looking for something to become a part of, why not join our Bike Shed? As the name suggests, the Shed focusses on all things bike, from repairs and maintenance to recycling. The Bike Shedders meet every Tuesday from 1 – 4:30pm at Exeter Way (opposite the Community Centre).

Thanks to the hard work of a group of young people from the Prince’s Trust, who spent over a week weeding and clearing, we now have a fresh and fertile blank canvas. In the inaugural Grow Shed meeting Shedders met with Brian, who volunteers on the Growing Buddy scheme for a Breckland Council funded project run by national charity Garden Organic. Also a member of the Thetford Garden and Allotment Club, Brian was able to offer tips on what to grow and when. With empty plant beds, a bag full of seeds, a fully-stocked Shed, and big plans, we are ready to get planting! The Grow Shed is a community garden, maintained by members of the community for the community.

Thetford Short Mat Bowls Club Please note that this new bowls club will now meet on Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm at the Charles Burrell Centre. New members will be very welcome - either call Pauline on 01953 717275 for further details or come to the Charles Burrell Centre on Wednesday at 7.30 pm.

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Shed member Kerry said; “The grow shed is about more than just planting seeds, it's a place where guys can go and do some gardening, some DIY or just hangout and socialize. It's about getting outside and doing projects with other people, everyone can use a project to keep them occupied.”

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Greater Thetford Development Partnership Community Sub-Group

Opening of Peace Garden and Dedication of Peace Pole

GTDP has been set up by Breckland Council as an advisory body to oversee the forthcoming development in Thetford, including 5,000 new homes. The Sub-Group's aims are to ensure that the forthcoming development is carried out in a sympathetic manner, and in the best possible way for the current and future residents, businesses, and visitors; and also to ensure full transparency and community engagement as the plans are developed and implemented. The next meeting is 7-9pm on Wednesday 15th March at the Charles Burrell Centre. For further information or to suggest a topic for discussion, pleaser email Robert Whittaker (Sub-Group Chair) on: rjw-gtdp@mathmos.net

The United Reformed Church in Thetford is celebrating the opening of its garden as a Peace Garden with the unveiling and dedication of a Peace Pole. There are already a handful of Peace Poles around Thetford that stand as symbols of Peace around the community. It is hoped that a Peace Trail might be launched for visitors to the town to follow and visit all the Peace Poles. The Poles are all of unique designs and each in their way reflect some aspect of peace.

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Resident group meetings taking place in March Abbey Tenants and Residents’ Association Meeting on Monday 13th March 2017, 6pm at the Abbey Neighbourhood Centre. Contact 07768974026 for more information.

The United Reformed Church is opening its garden to the public to visit at all times of the week, as an oasis of peace in busy lives - a place to sit and reflect (and perhaps to eat lunch!) The church too will begin to be open on Thursday afternoons for those who might want to spend time in prayer, or to come and chat with one of our pastoral team, or just to have a rest and perhaps have a cup of coffee. A number of `Peace` events are planned by the church in the coming weeks to promote the theme of Peace in an ever more turbulent society.

Toilet Twinning Thanks to the donations received at their Christmas services, and to the generous contributions from the groups that use the premises, Thetford United Reformed Church raised 400.00 to twin its toilet with a school in Pakistan. Through the money raised a school in Tando Allayar in the Sindh Province of Pakistan was able to build a toilet block for its pupils providing clean water and sanitation in an area where these are scarce. The toilets have been officially twinned which means that every penny is a penny well spent!

Barnham Action Group Next meeting will be Monday 20th March 2017. 6pm - 6.30pm for surgery time with Councillors and agencies. 6.30pm main meeting. At Fulmerston Church on Fulmerston Road. Croxton Road Community Association Next meeting will be taking place on Monday 6th March at the Church of the Nazarene Hall at 7.30pm. Refreshments available. Contact Ian Dixon, Chairman - 01842 765890

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Norwich Road Residents’ Association Next meeting: Thursday 30th March 2017 at 8pm Church On The Way, Churchill Road.

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Vicarage Road Ward Residents’ Association The next meeting will be at the Thomas Paine Hotel at 6:30pm on Wednesday 29th March. For further information or to bring up specific issues for the meeting, please contact Cllr Colin Burnett at: cburnett839@btinternet.com

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The Rental Property Market

The buy-to-let market has been dominated by April’s stamp duty changes. Sales boomed in the run-up to the introduction of the higher rate – figures from HM Revenue & Customs showed that in March, 162,000 properties changed hands, a rise of 77% on a year earlier. Data from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) showed 29,300 mortgages were advanced to landlords that month, more than treble the number in March 2015. Lending landlords fell after that and the numbers have run at just over half those recorded in 2015.

house prices over the next five years due to landlords coming under pressure to increase rents to offset the tax increases in April 2017, this situation is set to worsen.

More changes face landlords in 2017 in the form of tougher affordability checks for buy-to-let mortgages and the start of the withdrawal of tax relief on mortgage interest. These new changes to tax relief for landlords could see may buy to let owners forced into a higher tax bracket from April 2017.

Despite this some parts of the country have seen a flood of properties into the market and the balance has tipped in favour of tenants. Simon Rubinsohn, Chief Economist at RICS said it was unlikely investors would completely lose their appetite for buy to let. “You do have to bear in mind the alternatives,” he said. “Also the mentality of the property investment is embedded despite these changes.”

Despite the proportion of tenants in arrears having improved since the last recession, Upad, the online lettings agent, is witnessing the problem grow again. Almost 10% of all tenants in the UK fell behind with their rent payments in August 2016 and this forces over 34,000 landlords to issue possession claims between July to September 2016.

According to the National Landlord Association, more than 400,000 landlords could be affected by the changes, which will mean that landlords will no longer be allowed to deduct mortgage interest payments or other loan repayments related to their rental property from their turnover.

For further information and advice on this subject please contact: Ann Smith on 01842 757432 or email ann.smith@rudlings-wakelam.co.uk

While landlord tax breaks may be set to diminish, those in the industry are calling for changes to the controversial 3% surcharge in Stamp Duty Land Tax paid by those making additional property purchases.

RudlingsWakelam Solicitors

Currently 62% of landlords in the UK are experiencing tenant arrears and with rents predicted to rise faster than

...advice for life

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About Thetford Is Where The Haart Is Haart of Thetford opened their doors over 15 years ago —and since then the branch has become one of the best known agents in town. Haart is the UK's largest independent lettings and estate agent and has been in business for more than 25 years. Drop in and see us to find out how we can help you to find your dream property, sell or let your home. The Thetford office is open 6 days a week and our phone lines are open 7 days from 8:30am until 10pm. Here in Thetford we believe we have our customers’ best interests at Haart, either by finding their dream home or obtaining sellers the best price possible. Supporting the local community is something Haart take passionately. Haart have sponsored a fun run as part of Thetford's Great Festival 2014, supported the local pantomime and Dame Pageant, invested in the ‘Thetford Players’ to aid the many productions they carry out and recently funded new football kits for the Thetford bulldogs.

No Job to from Small 1/8 in Advert_Layout 1 11/01/2017 09:57 Staff Haart Thetford are waiting to help with your queries

NO JOB 2 SMALL

PAINTER & DECORATOR

We take the pain out of painting Are you looking for a reliable painter & decorator - if so than look no further Free estimates & competitive rates. Professional, friendly & reliable. For your all interior and exterior decorating requirements

Haart Thetford are delighted to support About Thetford magazine and feature on the front cover this year and Tel: 01842 752620 Mobile: 07540 661503 look forward toHP helping you with all your property needs. Simon Long Advert_Layout 1 18/04/2011 11:35 Page 1 Email: infonj2s@gmail.com www.haart.co.uk/branch-finder/thetford

Let us take the worry ‘‘out of your move ’’ Free estimates and advice

Local and long distance removals Export packing and shipping Domestic and commercial Furniture deliveries nationwide Est 1993, family owned and run Competitive rates Long or short term storage Packing materials supplied Fire proof storage

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Simon Long Removals • Howlett Way • Thetford • Norfolk • IP24 1HZ • Tel: 01842 766477

email: movers@simonlongremovals.co.uk • www.simonlongremovals.co.uk Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

Experience Counts In Cleaning World David at Powerclean has been cleaning carpets and upholstery in and around Thetford for the past 17 years using a van-mounted cleaning system where the machine stays on board the vehicle and a pipe is run into the premises. The advantages of this over a portable machine (which many carpet-cleaners still use) are a higher quality clean and reduced drying times. Over the past 2 years David has also been cleaning the exterior of properties; Driveways, patios, and fascia Picture: David from Powerclean with one of windows (Interestingly, he uses a “SKYVAC” to clean out his trusty portable machines gutters). The “SKYVAC” is like a huge vacuum cleaner which sucks the debris from your gutters without the need for ladders or the mess which that entails.The “SKYVAC” has a camera that can be used to see if SPRING is just around the corner which there are any blockages in the gutter which can then means DAFFODIL TEAS are here again! be removed accordingly. David will come and inspect Do come along to Barnham Village Hall and your gutters FREE OF CHARGE and, if the gutters need a enjoy a lovely afternoon tea from 2— 4:30pm clean, leave you a no obligation quote. You can even see Sunday March 25th the pictures of the inside of your gutter! David carries Sunday April 1st out domestic and commercial work and is a member of Sunday April 8th the safe contractor scheme, ensuring a full health and Sandwiches, Scone & cake and a pot of tea Powerclean QPallPortrait Advert_Layout 1 23/02/2017 14 safety policy and necessary method statements. See for only £4.00 All proceeds for the Village Hall Fund contact details below to contact David.

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For your free quote call Marcus on tel: 01842 764564 or 07585 446563 Email: marcus@findlayservices.co.uk

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Please Contact Nick White for advice and a no hassle estimate Telephone: 01842 750505 • Mobile: 07737 044700 E mail - plumbsure@yahoo.com

32 Fisher Way, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2LD

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Moving Home Moving house can be a big deal for cats - much of their feeling of security comes from being surrounded by the familiarity of their own territory. Careful planning will ensure that it is a smooth move for everyone. You can book your cat into a cattery or take him with you as you move. If you decide on the first option, you will not have to worry about him on the day. Of course, your cat’s vaccinations need to be up to date prior to moving. If you decide to take your cat with you as you move; pop his bed, scratching post, litter tray and cat carrier in a quiet room that has been cleared of furniture, and give him a small meal. If he is prone to travel sickness, it is worth withholding food for three to four hours before the journey. Do not let him out, as you don’t want him to go missing if he suspects that something is afoot. Once you have arrived at your new home, take your cat to a secure room with all his familiar bits and pieces. Give him something to eat and make sure he has a litter tray. Close the door and leave your cat alone for a while. Make sure he is not disturbed by the removal team.

For help, advice or assistance with the cost of neutering, please call us on 01842 810018. Rita Thompson

Feline Care Open Day 2017 Join the cats of Feline Care this Easter Sunday at their sanctuary. There will be a huge assortment of Easter eggs for you to win. You'll also be able to meet plenty of our fluffy residents. The day will also include plenty of scrumptious homemade treats to feast upon. Plenty of bric-a-brac stalls. Plus, live music from Ian aka DJ Camoalien. Pop along any time between 12pm to 3pm. Cre8tive Hair March 2017_Layout 1 10/02/2017 14:18 Entry £1 for adults, 50p for kids and under 3's are free.

It might be a good idea to keep your cat in his new room for a few days; most cats will let you know when they are ready to venture further. Once it is time to see the rest of the house, make sure that all doors, windows and cat flaps are closed. He is not ready for the outside world yet! Some cats go missing shortly after moving house, so will need to be kept indoors for at least three weeks. When you do let him out, do it just before a mealtime when you can call him back with his favourite food. Leave the door open so he can run back into the house if he feels insecure. Only let him out for short periods at first. Make sure your cat is micro chipped before letting him out, so that if he wanders off he can be traced easily. Do not forget to change your address details on the central database.

SPECIALISING IN ALL ASPECTS OF HAIRDRESSING

Kerryanne's Return!

I would like to say a big thanks to family, friends & clients for all your lovely cards, gifts, words of kindness & support, shown to my husband & I on the arrival of our gorgeous baby boy. Sadly my maternity leave has come to a end! I will be returning back to work on the 2nd March. My new work hours will be Thursday & Friday 9am-5pm & Saturday 9am-2pm. (Salon is still open as normal hours) I'll look forward to see you all soon. x

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SUPPLIERS & INSTALLERS OF ELECTRIC RADIATORS POWER FOR SHEDS • GARAGES • OUTBUILDINGS DOWNLIGHTS • LOFT LIGHTING MODERN CONSUMER UNITS (FUSE BOX) SUPPLIED FITTED AND COMMISSIONED NEW DIGITAL TV AERIALS INSTALLED Thetford: ADDITIONAL BT PHONE POINTS Mobile: Call Now for a Free Quotation! Phone: 0800 542 0424 Sullivan 1-8th Advert_Layout 1 14/12/2016 08:28 Page Mobile: 07737 698117 • www.brunningelectrical.com email: 1stchoicelocksmiths@gmail.com

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Events at Redgrave and Lopham Fen Guided Fen Walk Saturday 1st April, 10.30am-1pm. £4 adult, £2 child. Meet at the Education Centre, no booking required. Wildlife Watch Group Saturday 11th March, 8th April, 10.30am-12.30pm A club for 6-12 year olds, £2. call 01379 688333 Contact: marcus.halmshaw@btinternet.com Time To Paint Friday 31st March, 28th April, 10am-2pm Bring some artwork and join like-minded people in a relaxed, informal setting. £5 donation, includes tea/ coffee and cake or biscuits. No need to book Intermediate Hedgehog Care Saturday 18 March, 10am-3pm. £25 booking essential Activity Day For Home-educated Children Tuesday 28 March, 10.30am-2.30pm. £7 per child.

Plant Sale

Gardening For Wildlife Tuesday 28 March, 7.30pm. Evening talk with Valley Fens Wildlife Group £2 per person (includes refreshments). All welcome, no need to book For further details and to book, call 01473 890089 pr visit www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org

Sunday 9 April, 10am-3pm Annual event with a wide variety of plants from over 20 award-winning & specialist nurseries. Plus second hand tools & donated plants. £1.50 adults, children free. Hot & cold refreshments available.

Weave A Willow Birdfeeder Saturday 1 April, 2pm-5pm. £25, inc materials. Children’s Activity: Natural Navigators Tuesday 4 April, 10am-2pm. For unaccompanied 6-10 year olds. £7 per child, booking essential Family Activity: Easter Fun At The Fen Thursday 13 April, 2pm-4pm Wildlife activities, games and crafts £4 children, £2 adults, booking essential

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Office space when you need it Make the right impression when you interview people or meet with your suppliers by hiring one of our rooms Discover our state of the art facilities situated in the centre of Thetford with great transport connections and catering options to suit every taste. Anglia House Business Centre, Bridge Street, Thetford, IP24 3AG Phone 07799 465044 Email Enquiries@angliahousebusinesscentre.co.uk Internet www.angliahousebusinesscentre.co.uk Office space, board rooms, meeting rooms, training rooms and conference rooms available by the half day, day, week or month. Evening and weekend books available. Our 10 rooms can accommodate from 2 to 25 people. Free Wi-Fi available in all rooms. Buffets and other catering options available upon request.

March Offers

Weekend Rates Dropped! Ford Fiesta

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New Student Joins the Lloyds Bank Social Entrepreneurs Programme as Another from Thetford Graduates A local entrepreneur from Brandon has joined the 2016/2017 cohort of the Lloyds Bank Social Entrepreneurs programme, in partnership with School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) this Autumn, as a student from Thetford graduates from the 2015/2016 programme. The year-long programme supports entrepreneurs developing their own social businesses through the provision of financial support and comprehensive learning support including a business mentoring scheme. The entrepreneurs each receive Start-Up grants of £4,000 or Scale Up grants of £15,000 from the Lloyds Bank Social Entrepreneurs Programme, and this – together with the action learning programme delivered in partnership with School for Social Entrepreneurs, and support from their Lloyds Banking Group mentor – has enabled them to take their social enterprises to the next level and plan for the future. Elizabeth Jenkins from Brandon has joined the fifth year of the Start Up Ipswich programme with her social enterprise which aims to provide a place for young people (and men and women) who have been exposed to domestic abuse, to attend for coffee and education.

tackling issues such as the environment, education, gender and mental health. Paula Rogers, Head of the Social Entrepreneurs Programme at Lloyds Banking Group said: “Last year’s cohort of students has made significant progress since joining the Lloyds Bank Social Entrepreneurs Programme, in partnership with School for Social Entrepreneurs, and it is fantastic to see them developing their ideas and businesses first-hand with the support from the programme. Launched in 2012, the Lloyds Bank Social Entrepreneurs Programme, in partnership with SSE, is designed to support social entrepreneurs in communities and, through them, help stimulate economic growth and regeneration across the UK. For further information, please contact: Rhian Bennett/ Catherine Eastham, Four Communications on 020 3761 4402 or Rhian.Bennett@fourcommunications.com

Tom Gaskin (pictured) who has worked in Thetford for a number of years has graduated from the fourth year of the Start Up Ipswich programme with his social enterprise Pop Up Enterprises CIC, a Community Hub for young people in Thetford.

Local knowledge, personalised service

Over 1,000 social entrepreneurs have been supported by the Lloyds Bank Social Entrepreneurs Programme since its launch in 2012 and this year sees over 300 entrepreneurs join the programme, with diverse projects

Contact Colin Chamberlain at our Thetford office

Breckland

01842 755032

Accountancy Ltd VAT Returns Payroll Tax Returns Financial Forecasting Budgeting Business Plans Year End Accounts Self Employed to Small Ltd Companies l

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For a Free no obligation initial consultation Call Tracy for a professional, reliable service with over 20 years experience 01842 763340 or 07877 403 764 tracy@brecklandaccountancy.co.uk

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Metcalfe Copeman & Pettefar LLP Cage Lane, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2DT Telephone: 01842 756100

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injured in an accident? Local specialists in all types of personal injury claim including:

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27th May Barn Dance

3rd June Thetford's Mini Gin Festival

24th June Ascot Comes to Thetford

29th July Gatsby Disco

16th er p Se tembty r a 80's P Night

28th October Halloween Thriller Night

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Discounted rates apply for Armed Services and over 65's Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

Thetford Athletic Club Thetford Athletic Club is an England athletics registered club and runs a very successful throws squad covering the disciplines of shot, hammer and discus from their throws centre located on the Kilverstone Estate. Coaching and instruction is provided on a Monday, Thursday and Saturday by a level 3 CRB checked throws coach.

The throws group run sessions from absolute beginners to national standard athletes. The group is now fifteen strong and busy preparing for the summer competition season with a number of athletes aiming once again to compete at the prestigious English Schools Championships, this year being held at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham. The squad currently attracts athletes from Thetford and the surrounding area and from Bury St Edmunds, Norwich, Kings Lynn, Haverhill and Hunstanton. It does not matter if you are an absolute beginner or an experienced athlete; we have sessions to cater for all ages and abilities. Competitions are provided both throughout the winter and summer months as is coaching and support on competition preparation and strength and conditioning. We have a strength and conditioning gym at the club and all athletes are encouraged to participate in strength and conditioning programme which revolves around Olympic lifting and use of free weights. To find out more or to come along for a free trial with Thetford AC contact Gary Howe on gary.howetac@gmail.com

Meet Baby Juno

I am pleased to announce the safe arrival of Juno Jay. While I am on maternity The Core Studio team are offering a great range of classes (morning & evenings). To keep up to date with the latest timetable, offers & FREE class passes please subscribe to our newsletter. Classes available: • Pilates & Fitness Pilates • Yoga & Fitness Yoga • PiYO • Balls & Bands • Bands & Bands Sweat Whether you are a beginner, recovering from an injury/surgery or enthusiast to really tone & shape your body ready for summer, there is something for everyone.

Thetford Town Football Club Match fixtures for March & April 2017: 10.03.17 Thetford Town V. Great Yarmouth Town 18.03.17 Walsham-Le-Willows V. Thetford Town 25.03.17 Thetford Town V. Ely City

Contact for full details, Michelle x

All games are at 3pm. Please support your local club and attend matches if you are able to. Visit the website for more information: www.thetfordtownfootballclub.co.uk Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

Thetford Dolphins

Milo Represents Thetford For the first time in 25 years, a boxer from Thetford has represented their hometown club. Thetford Town Boxing Club's Milo Clay travelled to Sudbury last Sunday to take on Sean Pavitt from Braintree ABC. With some great travelling support Milo stepped into the ring to great applause. With Matt and Taylor Dean in his corner a very close, hard fought three rounds followed with some gritty, powerful ringcraft from both boxers.

Thetford Dolphins Junior swimmers travelled to Dereham in the ‘A’ Final of the Norfolk Junior League for the Copeman Cup and put in a very good performance against strong opposition to finish a creditable 4th place. Ben Buckley was victorious in the 50m breast (Pb) as were Archie King in 50m back and Aimee Dickerson in 50m breast (Pb). Personal bests were set by Billie-Jordan Butler, Harry Fasey, Amalee Neill-Gourlay, Daniel Penny, Mariesha BlackwellFlorentin, Kacie Cooper, Louis James, Francesca Long, Benjamin Flood, Thomas Ridding, Eleanor Brown and Emma Malcolm. Well done to all swimmers. Unfortunately Milo came out on the wrong side of a split decision that could easily of gone his way. Thetford Town Boxing Club is now officially up and running. Milo and his fellow squad members will all be in action over the following weeks and months. Watch this space.

Do you waste hours of time on paperwork you loathe? Or do you loathe it so much that it’s not getting done at all? Make life easy, call for a free consultation:

If you’re involved in a local sports group and would like to be featured in the About Thetford magazine then please contact Karen via: karen@aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk

01842 754005 Simark Accountants Belmont House 20 King Street Thetford Norfolk IP24 2AP

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C A R P E T S

A V A I L A B L E

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Thetford Showroom: Unit 2 Audley court Fison way industrial Estate Ip24 1HE

Lawsons March Advert 2017_Layout 1 20/02/2017 10:55 Page 1

Time for a

Spring move?

The market is moving...Are you? If you want to sell your property for the best market price this Spring, then choose Lawsons. With a quality of service second to none, our professional and experienced sales team will be with you every step of the way.

Call us today for your FREE valuation on 01842 755422 2 Bridge Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 3BL E. sales@lawsonsestateagents.co.uk