APRIL 2021
YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY MAGAZINE ISSUE
183
CIRCULATION 13,000
Q1 Bathco 45 x 148 TH.qxp_Layout 1 23/03/2021 11:40 Page 1
Turn to page 14
50% OFF
bath co
Fully Fitted Bathrooms
Installing bathrooms you deserve
This includes
FREE
• 25% OFF Installation • 25% OFF Products
Home design service
enquiries@bathcoeu.com
IN THIS ISSUE
FANTASTIC FRONTLINERS
|
0330 123 9334
SPOTLIGHT ON THETFORD MARKET
|
www.bathcoeu.com
EUSTON HALL GARDENS REOPEN
SPECTACULAR SPACE PHOTOGRAPHY PLUS LOTS MORE!!
Thinking of Selling or Letting your home?
We're all ears! Call us Today to Book Your FREE Valuation • Sales • Lettings • Property Management • Brandon - 01842 813466 | brandon@chilterns.co Thetford - 01842 754161 | thetford@chilterns.co www.chilterns.co
Love Where You Live
Inside this month...
lly interesting articles to We’ve got a number of rea including a look at the share with you this month Page 6 & 7 - Exploring The Night Sky Neil Garrod and our her work of local photograp Page 8 - Spotlight On Thetford Market er nag Ma e is Care Hom Fantastic Frontliner story Page 9 - Nevill Long’s New Branch ce odu intr to d ase we’re ple Rachael Claxton. Plus, Page 10 & 11 - Leaping Hare News t on a local market trader. a new feature - a spotligh Page 13 - Reopening For TADDS who n g Sharon Carriga For April we’re highlightin Page 14 - Thetford U3A News ily fam her and ll - Sharon runs the popular fish sta n Page 15 - NHS Hero Portraits tford market for more tha have been trading on The Page 19 - Wintering Warblers to s der About Thetford rea 50 years. We encourage Page 20 - 21 - Fantastic Frontliners y larl ticu par , h as Sharon support local traders suc Page 25 - Euston Hall Gardens n. dow lock latest as we emerge from this Page 27 - Adventure Games At Priory cle last month on Page 29 - Baking Dream Comes True arti the d oye enj you We hope y Page 31 - Thetford Past & Present several people did as the Jacky Fisher - we know ard to Page 32 - Book Success For Author forw king loo ’re We so. kindly wrote in to say ghts into Thetford’s rich Page 35 - New CEO For Trust bringing you further insi Page 37 - Local Business News re editions. and varied history in futu Front cover image by Robert Salisbury to wish all our advertisers May I take this opportunity for e dlin dea The ter! Eas and readers a very Happy About Thetford edition is the 15th April. inclusion within the May magazine is ine gaz ma d tfor ut The Terry Jermy, Editor, Abo proudly printed Van and a Man AD REV 06.19.qxp_Layout 1 10/06/2019 Tel: 01284 751296
by KNP Litho
VAN AND A MAN
MOVE ANYTHING, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE NATIONWIDE COVERAGE l SINGLE ITEM OR FULL HOUSEHOLD REMOVALS l STUDENT MOVES/OFFICE/PIANO MOVES l SAME DAY SERVICE l SEVEN DAYS/EVENINGS l FREE INSTANT QUOTES l ONE OR TWO MAN TEAM l ALL CLEARANCES UNDERTAKEN
Tel: 01953 488919 or 01362 687222 Mobile: 0775 1171606 www.vanandaman.com Email: gary@vanandaman.com
www.knplitho.co.uk
Bakes by Rose Home bakery based in Thetford, Norfolk Afternoon Tea, Brownies, Cookies, Cupcakes, Scones, Bread Pudding & more Contact us via email on Bakesbyrose@outlook.com or via social media
BakesbyRose.x
bakesbyrose_x
E-mail address for all articles, adverts etc: aboutthetfordmagazine@gmail.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
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 3
Live Life Connected
Is your boiler showing its age? Replace your oil boiler with a new LPG boiler for a cleaner, more cost effective fuel solution. We’ll manage the entire switching process, plus you could choose to spread the cost across 12 interest-free months. It’s flo-easy!
Cost effective & efficient Save space Cleaner, greener & safer
Call us on 0800
023 23 32 or visit flogas.co.uk/switch-from-oil Quote code: OIL2021AT when you call.
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 4
New Support To Help High Street Businesses 'Spring Back' Breckland Council has launched a new £2m programme of support to help businesses recover from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. The new 'Spring Back' package includes new grant funding to meet specific challenges, as well as outlining investment in public spaces which will support businesses to reopen as lockdown eases and return to safe and successful trading over the coming months. The suite of support has been informed by feedback from over 500 Breckland businesses and brings together a range of funding and support from both the district council and Government. It forms Breckland's latest efforts to protect the livelihoods of local people, after more than £42m grant funding was distributed to local businesses to help them through the pandemic. The support includes a Shop Front Improvement Scheme, which makes funding available to local businesses wanting to make improvements and enhancements to their shop frontage - from a lick of paint through to a completely replaced front. Plus, Covid Safe and Adaptions Grants worth up to £5k to help businesses invest in equipment which enables them to trade safety, from extra protective equipment and screens, to a marquee or outdoor seating to support social distancing. Any Breckland-based business will be able to have an assessment of their digital offer, with money available to help them trade digitally. The Digital Breckland project will support new payment systems through to online advertising. There is also a new streamlined pavement licence application process to help support businesses create outdoor seating areas, where appropriate, and encourage social distancing and covid-safe practices. This is in addition to training available from the Licensing and Public Protection teams.
City & Guilds Qualified with over 20 years experience
PLUMBING • HEATING • BATHROOMS Affordable Kitchens Supplied and Fitted with free 3D drawings 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
For prospective businesses, Breckland Council is offering an expanded enterprise and start-up scheme, providing funding and advice for people looking to launch their new business in the district. As part of the programme the council is also looking to support businesses by encouraging shoppers to return to the high streets as lockdown eases. The council's Covid Officers will be on hand six days-a-week to provide advice about safe shopping and social distancing. Further details, advice, and the application form is available on the Business Support pages: 1 11/11/2020 Trevor Hughes Wines Advert.qxp_Layout www.breckland.gov.uk/businesssupport
Trevor Hughes Wines Brandon Call today for a free copy of our comprehensive Wine List containing over 350 wines from all around the World. We will also send you a copy of our Special SPRING promotions. Prices start at £8.34 for a delicious bottle of Sauvignon Blanc or Cabernet Sauvignon. Free delivery for orders over £35.
Tel: 01842 814414
E: contact@trevorhugheswines.com
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 5
Exploring Thetford’s Sky At Night Did you know that Andromeda galaxy is approximately 2.5 million light years away from Thetford? For one Thetford artist, Neil Garrod it’s been a challenge to capture the night sky from his back garden during the past year. Neil is a hybrid shooter, someone who works in both videography and photography, he says this is possible because of advances in the digital format. Neil grew up in the town, attending both Norwich Road and Charles Burrell High Schools where he loved art and gained As in his GCSEs before becoming a senior design engineer in the theatre industry. These days Neil is a wedding DJ and can be found hosting on Radio Thetford. Neil’s love of gadgets led him to drones, as soon as he saw one he knew he wanted to do drone photography. Neil recently rebranded from Neil James Aerial Photos & Videos to Neil James Media to cover all aspects of his work. A passionate supporter of the town, Neil has delighted local people with his wonderful images of Thetford over the past few years. “I’m self taught and it is relativity all early days for me as I have only had my ground camera 14 months; but I have always had a passion for photography and then my drone side of things starting four years ago re-sparked that. I had a few enquiries for ground captures as well as from up in the air, so I looked into cameras to match the specifications I had with my drone. Part of my must have specs were making sure it could capture astrophotography
Neil’s image of Pleiades otherwise known as Seven Sisters taken from his garden in Thetford
Thetford Hybrid Shooter, Neil Garrod who has enthralled followers of his Facebook page with images of Thetford’s night sky.
and video as well. I ended up with going for a Sony mirrorless camera and 24mm wide angle lens.” Neil enjoys the multidiscipline of his work including creative portraits, “My top favourite is getting out with nature and capturing the sunlight hitting trees or buildings. It only happens for seconds sometimes, but then having that moment captured forever is very satisfying. My aim this year is to do more creative photo shoots outside and within nature or an urban environment. I’m also aiming to complete more creative video captures.” His late father, Derek loved being a videographer and Neil says he’s been inspired and influenced by his work. One of the benefits of the past year of lockdowns for Neil was having the time to experiment and develop his skills including being more creative with the editing process, the slightest tweak he says can make a big difference. Neil started taking astrophotography images when he became interested in photography. He initially spent evenings taking shots of stars and the milky way framed over Castle Hill or Nunnery Lakes using a static wide angle lens. “As my equipment grew, so did my interest in reaching further to deep space,” Neil said, “I have a wish list which doesn’t stop growing and was lucky enough to purchase a star tracker recently.” The star tracker enables longer exposures by rotating the camera at the same speed as the Earth. Neil’s first deep space capture was the Pleiades (Seven Sisters). You can see this on a clear night, as part of Taurus.
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 6
Neil has developed his astrophotography skills by using You Tube ‘how to’ videos, advice from Facebook groups and lots of practice shots, “You just can’t beat getting outside and trying things out, prepare for lots of failures to learn from, keep going and you’ll get some amazing captures. The moon isn’t too hard, you can even capture this with a good zoom lens and a steady hand.” Neil’s recent moon captures (see right) have improved since using the star tracker. It attaches between the camera and the tripod and rotates to follow the moon so you can take multiple photos. You can then stack these photos on top of each to make one image with more detail. This setup and method is the same for getting the better stars and almost essential for deep space nebulas and galaxies. When asked if he could take a photo of anything, what would it be, he replied that the Northern Lights are high up on his to-do-list and also a visit to the Highlands for some fantastic landscapes from the ground and drone. Although it’s been a difficult year Neil’s grateful that he’s had the opportunity to take creative portraits, live theatre performances in the summer, local company promo’s, product shoots, a wedding and of course nature shots. During the lockdowns his work has brought a lot of pleasure to followers on Facebook.
To view Neil’s work, visit his gallery/art store at: www.neil-james.co.uk Or, www.facebook.com/NeilJamesMedia www.instagram.com/Neil_James_Media Do you have an interesting hobby or passion? If so, let us know at the About Thetford magazine and we may be able to feature you in a future edition. E-mail: aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com
Neil’s image of the Andromeda galaxy taken in Thetford
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 7
SPOTLIGHT On
T HETFOR D M ARKE T
Carmichael’s Fish Stall
Sharon Carrigan is the second generation to run the fish stall on Thetford market. Her father Neil and Sharon serves up the freshest local fish his brother John set the stall up around 50 years from her twice weekly stall ago. Originally Neil and John used to go round the warm me up.” As time went by, Sharon was joined streets of Thetford in a van with a handheld bell, which they would ring. People would come out of by her younger twin sisters who would take turns to work with her to earn some pocket money. “I their houses with dishes to collect their pints of try to buy as much fish as possible from the local cockles and whelks and winkles and shrimps and boats in Lowestoft and hopefully this will soon be crabs. This eventually turned into a permanent a thriving fishing fleet again just like, the soon to pitch on the market on Tuesdays and Saturdays. start, crab boats from Cromer, where all my crabs Sharon says that she now serves the children and come from. Once this lockdown is over and all of even grandchildren of those very first customers. the regular market stalls are back, the market will “Thetford has served my family well and even return to a bustling place, in the centre of town”. though I was born in Norwich I feel I have grown up in this town. I used to go with my dad on a About Thetford magazine is pleased to bring Saturday to get out of helping my mum with the you a new feature each month - shining a Simon LongI HP 2018.qxp_Layout 1 13/09/2018 10:01 Page 1 housework. canAdvert remember my dad standing me spotlight on some of our great local traders in a bucket of hot water, with my wellies on, to
‘‘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
LO27
Fire proof storage
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 8
Nevill Long Opens New Branch Independent distributors of interior and insulation products for building projects, Encon Insulation and Nevill Long, is opening their 24th - and newest branch – in Thetford.
Kno wle dge
The Nevill Long Thetford team. Left to right: Max Caston, Jane Smith, Ben Reilly, Matthew Allen, Mark Quadling (back), Vikky Ranns and Mark Bognaki
RELIABILITY, KNOWLEDGE & OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE.
Opened to service primarily interior construction projects in the Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, North Essex and North Hertfordshire, the new branch aims to bring more business to the region and work with the local community. Being located in Burrell Way Trade Park, and keen to support local trades and contractors, the new branch will supply a complete range of interior products from leading brands including drywall boards, plaster, suspended ceiling systems, internal wall insulation and glazed partitioning products.
AT OUR NEW NEVILL LONG THETFORD BRANCH, YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS FOR YOUR INTERIOR PROJECTS.
A 36,000 sq ft warehouse, dedicated sales office and trade counter and a team renowned for their specialist knowledge of drywall, ceilings and interior systems – the new Nevill Long branch in Thetford has everything you need for interior fit-outs.
AN ENCON GROUP COMPANY
10 Burrell Way Trade Park, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 3RW
Tel: 01842 777711 encon.co.uk
Vikky Ranns, Branch Director at the new Nevill Long Thetford branch said: “We are excited for the opportunity to grow in the Thetford community, whilst also expanding our presence across the East Anglia region. Our new branch is conveniently located for local contractors and we strongly believe our future lies in contributing to the sustainable success of local communities like Thetford, and the location we’ve chosen for our impressive new branch very much reflects this approach.” Along with the new branch, a growing team that’s renowned for their specialist knowledge of drywall, ceilings and interior systems will join Branch Director, Vikky Ranns to deliver excellent customer service to local contractors.
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 9
Taking small steps (and great walks) back to normal life
© Euston Hall
Have you been walking the same routes during lockdown? What we weary walkers need now is a series of events that add pizazz to our promenades – colour to our constitutionals. Leaping Hare’s brand new walks, Strolling through Time, showcase Thetford’s rich heritage, each stroll ending with socially distanced tea and scones! Choose from two new walks, which are taking place in May and June. One tells the story of Henry Cable and Suzannah Holmes, among the very first people to settle in modern Australia. The other will take participants around
the fascinating ruins of the Priory. For dates and details, log on to the Leaping Hare website. Meanwhile, we’re gearing up for the return of regular events, kicking off with the reopening of the gardens at Euston Park from 10-16 May. Limited tours of Euston Hall will be available from 25-31 May in addition to the gardens and then slightly larger hall tours for 17-23 September. Plus, the always-popular Thetford
Open Gardens returns on 27 June, raising money for St Nicholas Hospice Care with a special bonus date of 6 June to celebrate beautiful roses.
Volunteer focus
Now’s the time to get your business noticed No one can say for sure whether there’ll be more lockdowns in future – but we can be certain that supporting local businesses and enterprises is more important than ever. If you’re a skilled craftsperson, talented restaurant-owner, creative designer, photographer or event organiser whose business is active in the Thetford area, it’s time to make sure your local market knows who you are and what you do. From only £3.75 a month, your business could be listed in our
Local Directory. Better still, we offer a further 50% discount to charities, small community and voluntary groups. Listing in our Local Directory raises your company profile and supports the local economy, because we plough the funds raised into benefiting Thetford and the surrounding area. Use our Local Directory to create an easily manageable mini-website for a very reasonable cost. Interested? We’re always here for a chat. Give us a call on 07802 701911
Leaping Hare volunteer Lynn Ready happily admits she “fell back in love with her sewing machine” during the first lockdown. She’d always been a crafter, but spring 2021 saw her really up her game. “I like experimenting with different things,” says Lynn, who now calls herself Silana Crafts, “and making using locally sourced sustainable cottons and linens where possible, with decorations inspired by local animals and nature.” Lynn makes cosmetic bags, gift and hand-bags, but she also got stuck into making Covid-19 face masks – some of them with individual hand-block stamp designs, which we have been selling from our shop.
Leaping Hare
THETFORD
www.leapinghare.org
Belmont House King Street IP24 2AP info@leapinghare.org
07802 701911
Thetford U3A We recently decided it would be a good idea to produce our own cards especially after the Christmas cards you received were so very much appreciated. To continue with this theme Tony Dobbin has now designed cards for a variety of reasons for us to send or give to our members. A very big thank you Tony, he does so much for the U3A. He produces our newsletters and all of our magazines. He is there to take photographs, in fact there is so much he does for us that never gets recognised where would we be without him? In September when we hold our U3A we will be looking for a few new committee members as Gil Roberts, Paul Vice and myself are due to retire. We have enjoyed our time and cannot believe how quickly the time has gone. It is for a period of three years with only one committee meeting per month. We need people who can give us fresh ideas and a view of various things that they would like to see and hear. If you are interested please contact me so we can put your name forward. Anne Fabian is looking forward to starting up her groups again, she has already booked the Church on the Way, for her Chataway sessions which will be for meeting up, refreshments and a general get together, more on this in the next edition.
If anyone has any news or interesting tales to tell please email or ring me and it can be included in next months edition. For further information, please visit our website: www.u3asites.org.uk/thetford/home Or, call Lesley Braund on 01842 842074
Independant and family owned, the longest established funeral service in Thetford. l Pre paid funeral plans
l Memorials supplied and renovated
l Fully qualified counselling service
l Grave maintenance service
Contact Lydia Turner 01842 761333 (24hr) funeraloffice@mail.com 15 OL D M AR KE T ST RE ET • T HET FOR D IP24 2EQ Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 12
Reopening In Sight For TADDS Finally we hope that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and Thetford & District Dementia Support Group has made tentative steps towards re-opening the group. After much discussion we are going to cross fingers for a full re-opening of the group on Friday 2nd July, starting at 10am. There will be much more detail on this as we progress towards July and we will of course be taking into account any Government guidelines and requirements; but I can’t help feeling a little bit elated that we will finally be able to get together and see familiar faces as well as be able to really check on how people are doing and what help (and I’m sure they will be needing help) people need.
getting a diagnosis for their dementia, and getting appropriate referral to service providers and Health experts, TADDS can help with this process, and we are urging people who have found this difficult to make contact with us so that we can help get the ball rolling. We will also be holding a coffee morning (after full restrictions are lifted) for all our current volunteers and potential volunteers to come and find out more about what we do and meet with the some of the Trustees of the Charity. If you feel this is something that would be of interest to you and can commit to a regular session for the group, please get in touch with us so we can send you further details.
We have a number of other events for the group, also in the pipeline and more on those will be revealed as the year progresses. I know for many of us the chance of seeing friends and family cannot get here quick enough, but it has been a tough and rough year for a lot of people who are caring for loved ones regardless of (the loved one’s) disability; it is especially tough when you face the challenges and loneliness of caring for someone with dementia. Not only do you often find you have no general support even with menial easy tasks, but you have the added feeling of being lonely when there is little conversation or interaction from the person you are caring for.
See you very soon, Jo Mountjoy-Dixon
This is why our group has been the essential lifeline to many people before lockdown, who have found themselves looking after someone with a dementia, and it has proved to be even more essential throughout lockdown. We are going to continue to provide online support, and look to how we can expand this to make our group even more accessible to people who for whatever reason find they cannot always get to the group sessions. Many people are also struggling with
■ Burst Pipes ■ Leaking Taps ■ Toilets ■ Showers ■ Kitchen Sinks ■ Blocked Drains ■ Motorised Valves ■ Bidets & Basins ■ Immersion Heaters & Radiators ■ Storage Tank Ball Valves WE ALSO INSTALL ■ Central Heating Pumps kitchens, bathrooms and ■ Hot Water Cylinders
Local Chimney Sweep All Sweeps Certificated Other services we offer:
Flue Fitting • Stove Fitting Clean and Professional Fully Insured
EMERGENCY CALL-OUT SERVICE
T: 01842 763165 M: 07703 256356 E: peter@fixaleak.co.uk
Phoenix Eco Plumbing
Please call 07506 683 354 Ask for Ian www.phoenixecoplumbing.com
WWW.FIXALEAK.CO.UK
THIS ARTWORK IS THEmention PROPERTY OFAbout ABOUTThetford THETFORD LTD Please the Magazine TELEPHONE THETFORD 01842 761549
wet rooms
13
when responding to advertisements
Q1 Bathco 190 x 128 TH.qxp_Layout 1 22/01/2021 14:12 Page 1
Find your local Showroom at: Thetford | Unit 1, Station Lane, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 1ND King’s Lynn | 20-21 Denny Road, Hardwick ind. est, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 4HG
bath co Est. 2002
Dereham | 35 Yaxham Road, Dereham, Norfolk, NR19 1HD
Installing bathrooms you deserve
50% OFF Fully Fitted Bathrooms
This includes
• 25% OFF Installation • 25% OFF Products
FREE
Home design service
Your Professional Fully Fitted BathCo installation includes:
• Free no obligation home design and quote (inc PE, NR, IP, CB and SG postcodes)
• All tiling, electrics, plumbing, heating etc. • Waste management (removal of old
• Full detailed pre-installation survey • Project management and dedicated installation team • No pressure sales team, browse our
installation / refuse etc)
The home of quality fully fitted
• After care service
bathrooms and kitchens.
• 1 year installation warranty
We take care of everything!
• Competitive finance available*
showroom at leisure
• Wide selection of finishing touches available
enquiries@bathcoeu.com
|
0330 123 9334
|
www.bathcoeu.com
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 14
‘NHS Hero’ Portraits Help Patient’s Recovery A West Suffolk Hospital patient has found a unique way of aiding her recovery from breast cancer surgery: painting portraits of the “NHS heroes” that looked after her. Chris Goddard, 68, from Thetford, painted the portraits of the doctors and nurses who looked after her at the Bury St Edmunds hospital as a way to say thank you for her care. Chris was diagnosed with breast cancer following a routine breast screening in October 2020 but her treatment was delayed after she tested positive for Covid-19. She had her second surgical appointment in February. Whilst attending hospital appointments she took photos of her carers with a view to trying her hand at portrait painting as part of her recuperation. Chris has so far finished six portraits, with another seven planned, and is donating each of them as presents to the members of staff featured. Chris said: “I am fairly new to painting and I certainly don’t regard myself as ‘an artist’ – in fact a few months ago I could not have believed it possible that I would even attempt a portrait! But, having been diagnosed with breast cancer I decided that painting would be great practice and therapy for me. I set myself a little project to paint the portraits of the health care professionals I encounter on ‘my journey’ – focusing on the multi -disciplinary breast care team at West Suffolk Hospital, for whom I have the greatest respect and gratitude. Every single encounter that I have had at West Suffolk Hospital has been wonderful. I have been kept well informed throughout, everyone has been immensely kind, helpful, reassuring and professional – truly our NHS heroes. Painting gives me time to reflect on the work that each individual does, the long hours and trying to Made tohow Measure 1/8th Advert 2020.qxp_Layout imagine Covid-19 has impacted on their work. 1
MADE TO MEASURE Curtain Making • Roman Blinds • Cushions Free measuring service • Fabric samples available
Curtains shortened from £25 Collection and delivery service available Over 30 years experience
Friendly Thetford based service
Call Dena on 07842 110240
Portrait of Breast Cancer Nurse Ellie Gosbee
Painting also gave me an opportunity to practise what I preach as a psychological therapist in the form of mindfulness, which happily reinforced how helpful it is.” The staff portrayed by Chris have been delighted with their portraits, which she has presented to them with a personal letter detailing how they helped her. Breast cancer nurse Ellie Gosbee, whose portrait is above said: “I was both surprised and delighted to receive the portrait from Mrs Goddard. It is just so lovely that she has gone to the effort of painting them, and I am so grateful to be appreciated in this way. It has been such a difficult time for all of us and receiving this gift was a really lovely moment. She has done so well capturing what it has been like working through this pandemic. I will treasure this portrait as a reminder of what it has been like working through 11/0 this momentous time.”
Barry Martin
n Ceramic wall & floor tiling n Natural stone, mosiac, porcelain etc n Free quotes available Call 01842 761269/07747 773144
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 15
All Tree Services & Garden Works Considered All Fencing & Turfing Jobs
ship "Quality workman would at a great price. I d highly recommen Premier Paving." Mr W Thetford
Patios & Natural Stone Paving Block Paving Path & Patio Renovation Shed & Summerhouse Concrete Bases Bespoke Garden Furniture Designed & Installed Green Waste, Soil & Rubble Clearance
"Premie r Pa quick aff ving offered a o They go rdable service. t the jo b done the tim in e th would a ey said they nd I wa s re happy w ith their ally work." Ms G Th etford
Pl nning Guide®
ALL YOUR PLANNING & BUILDING REGULATIONS UNDER ONE ROOF
Contact Kim on
07908878000 or 01842 762132 info@premierpavingandlandscapes.co.uk Call us today for a free no obligation quote, with over 15 years experience in the trade
Follow us on
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 16
Action Stations In The Garden! Everything is surging into life, especially the weeds. If you can find time for weeding and hoeing now it will make life easier the rest of the year. And get the last of the pruning done too – new shoots are coming apace. This is the month to cut back fig trees, rosemary and sage (what an amazing smell from those clippings!) and have a look round for any roses you missed earlier. The lawn is probably looking a bit shaggy now – needing a hair-cut like the rest of us – so a first cut with the mower blades set high is in order. You will be rewarded by that glorious smell of fresh cut grass – plus some excellent material for your compost bin of course. If there are bald patches you could roughen the surface and scatter grass seed. Fill in any strange dips which have appeared too – old mole runs perhaps. Bare-rooted shrubs and trees must go into the ground as a matter of urgency now. Containerised plants are more the rule these days and they can wait till you feel in the mood but a plant that has no moisture by its roots will not survive long. Asparagus crowns can still be planted while, if the weather is kind, you might be harvesting the first spears from well-established plants before the month is out. Jerusalem artichokes can be set now – be prepared for them to thrive in our sandy soil and send up stems to 8 foot.
Try to wait till the soil is warmed up and there is the prospect of rain. Like you and me, these seeds need warmth and a drink to grow happily. Towards the end of the month you should start the seeds of less robust crops indoors – sweet corn, runner beans, tomatoes. You are taking a gamble on when the last frost will pass in May for planting out but also giving these plants a chance to grow and toughen up; they are then more likely to survive the birds and slugs which are constantly hungry and love the young shoots. If you had pots or tubs of bulbs, find space for them in the border once they have flowered. With enough water and food, the bulbs will form flowering heads for next year; this is quite difficult to achieve if you leave the bulbs in the pot and you probably want the container for something more interesting for the rest of the season – cordyline make a very striking feature and can be moved round the garden as you need the space-filler.
There will be a huge increase in daylight in this month – from 13 to 15 hours a day. Trees will be coming into leaf and pear trees into flower. This does not mean the last frost is past – be As well as the pleasure of Easter this month and cautious about planting tender flowers. Some (hopefully) the move towards the relaxation of the things, like potatoes, can send up new shoots lockdown measures, we can celebrate National after being blasted by a frost but young beans Gardening Week from April 27th to May 2nd. Treat and brassicas can be wiped out, and the same yourself to a plant or two, some fertiliser, a new water applies to soft planting in the flower garden. -feature – whatever takes your fancy – it will all You can start sowing seeds for many crops now help the horticultural industry and you deserve it! Job tochard, Smallleeks, 1-8 Advert REV2.qxp_Layout –No lettuce, carrots, beetroot etc. 1 11/09/20 Happy gardening! Sue Pilgrim
We take the pain out of the painting Free estimates & competitive rates. For your all interior and exterior decorating requirements. Professional, friendly & reliable. Fully insured
Call Arry 07719 037306 Email: nj2s@outlook.com
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 17
Friends of Thetford Station It’s been quite the adventure keeping on top of the planted areas at Thetford Station during the pandemic. Calling to each other across the platforms when our paths finally cross. As a group we managed 1 or 2 meetings during the Summer but other than that we’ve had to work independently as the opportunities arose. Andy has been a super star litter picker as always and has been keeping an eye on the Platform 2 planters. Keith has been feeding the birds. Simon has been hoeing and hand weeding like Spring crocuses providing a splash of colour at the clappers. Charles has been trimming up and Thetford Train Station mulching. Thanks to all these efforts the Station Garden is a treat on a daily walk. The Crocuses There is always lots to do at a community garden; were lovely and the Daffodils are always a we would love to welcome some more volunteers reminder that Spring is not far away. Another treat so if you’re at all interested in what we get up has been the discovery that the compost bays to please do not hesitate to contact us via our we installed a few years ago are beginning to Facebook page or via the email below. We meet reward us with coveted mulch! Now we can begin at 5pm on the first Tuesday of each month on to improve the condition of the soil and hopefully Platform 1 at Thetford Train Station - social reduce drought stress. Cue water butt sequence. distancing restrictions of course permitting. Those of you on Facebook would have seen our recent posts. Thanks to the generous donations For more information on joining the Friends from Frank Whisken and the Mayor of Thetford MCP HP Advert 11.18.qxp_Layout 1 19/11/2018 09:41 Page 1of Thetford Station, contact: Councillor Mark Robinson, we will be able to triple thetford_station@yahoo.co.uk our rainwater storage!
Legal Solutions for Business and Life Crime I Disputes I Employment Property I Wills & Probate Family I Personal Injury I Company & Commercial Law Cage Lane, Thetford, IP24 2DT www.mcp-law.co.uk T: 01842 756100 Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 18
Wintering Warblers Spring is in the air, at last! For birdwatchers, one welcome sign is the sound of Chiffchaffs piping up during March. ‘Chiffchaff’ is onomatopoeic – the bird declares its own name. It does so in a quite clear, cheerful-sounding way but with more hesitant delivery than the strident ‘Tea-cher, Tea-cher’ of a Great Tit, regularly getting ‘stuck’ on the same note. By the end of the month, the first few Blackcaps will have reappeared too, and they will have started giving their much more complex, fast-paced, sometimes almost tropical-sounding song. Although their names don’t give any clue, Chiffchaffs and Blackcaps are members of the warbler family, a group of birds often associated with summer. Although many warblers are summer visitors to our area, a few species now spend the winter here, and one fairly recent colonist stays in the UK year-round: the secretive but explosive-sounding Cetti’s Warbler. This species first reached Britain in 1961, and it took another decade before they began breeding in southeast England. It didn’t become established as a breeding species at BTO’s Nunnery Lakes until as recently as the mid 2000s. Chiffchaff and Blackcap are migratory species, with the most of those that breed here heading to sub-Saharan Africa (Chiffchaff) and the Mediterranean basin (Blackcap) in winter. Small numbers of each now winter in the UK. Research using BTO Garden BirdWatch data has revealed that ‘our’ wintering Blackcaps are actually birds from the central European breeding population that have changed their migration routes. The origin of our winter Chiffchaffs isn’t as well studied but may involve some UK-bred birds but probably many more from Scandinavia and elsewhere in northern Europe. Blackcaps are scarce around Thetford in winter but occasionally visit garden feeders. Two or three Chiffchaffs spent last winter at the Nunnery Lakes reserve.
'Dusky Warbler’ at the Nunnery Lakes by Neil Calbrade / BTO
The reserve hosted a fourth warbler in winter 2021: a rare Dusky Warbler. Weighing less than a 50p piece, this insect-eating bird breeds no closer than Tomsk in Russia, a cool 3,000 miles from Thetford, and should have been spending the winter in southeast Asia! Unfortunately it favoured an area well away from the permissive paths but if it is still there when lockdown ends, BTO might be able to organise small group visits to look for it. About Thetford ad June 2018.pdf 1 25/05/2018 10:14:53 Nick Moran, BTO
P B S
Plastic Building Supplies Ltd
Tel: 01842 752 097 Mob: 07912 938 376 Complete Renovation Specialists • Extensions Home Improvements • Property Maintenance Kitchen and Bathroom installations
FREE COMPETITIVE QUOTE
Email: cashbuildingservices@gmail.com Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 19
Fantastic Frontliners Caring During A Pandemic
Rachael Claxton is the General Manager of Randale Care in Thetford, they have 2 Residential homes and a Domiciliary service in the Community. The homes are Red House and Redgate House. Back in 1990 when Rachel left school she knew she wanted to work in the care sector and has 31 years of experience, “I love my career and I am very passionate about the role I have and the daily care of the residents and community clients.” Speaking about the past year Rachael said, “The COVID pandemic if I’m honest has been the worst thing I have dealt with during my career and I sincerely hope I won’t have to deal with anything similar again. We’ve had no trouble sourcing PPE and the staff have been diligent in wearing it effectively. We have got used to the masks but really feel they compromise friendly, normal communication. We have hard of hearing residents who rely on a level of lip reading so we have used electronic writing boards where appropriate and written communication when necessary. The hardest thing is probably that the residents can’t see our smiles so we have all become quite skilled in exaggerating and animating all conversations with our eyes and speaking clearly and slowly.”
Rachael Claxton at Red House, one of two care homes in Thetford she has managed during the Covid-19 pandemic
to have no covid positive residents, community clients or staff until just after Christmas but then we got struck by the second wave and the new strain which was the worst time for all of us. We had everything in place and had been rehearsing for the event of an outbreak but nothing could have quite prepared us for the toll it took on our whole Randale community. We have endeavoured to support our staff throughout and offer advice on mental health support. Along with the rest of the health care sector we feel we have had a traumatic experience, but as a small, caring company we have stayed strong and are resilient.”
Rachael says the key to the past year is the amazing staff team and how they have all pulled together keeping up levels of care to the highest standard. Many were also dealing with having to isolate and manage their own families through periods of illness and stress which was After a year in which the nation went into three AKFS Advert.qxp_Layout 1 out 14/10/2020 1 phenomenally hard for them all. “It’s been a very lockdowns, keeping covid19 of the two17:03 homesPage sad, difficult period for everyone.” was a priority for Rachael, “We were fortunate
Anglian Kitchen Fitting Services We are a Thetford based company that installs every style of kitchen, our friendly knowledgeable team are there to guide you through the process from start to finish.
Services we offer: l Complete refit or renovations l Bespoke joinery l Certificated gas & electrical works l Plumbing
l l l l l
Affordable quality that comes with a guarantee.
Tiling Plastering Splashbacks Flooring General building
01842 380123 AFKServices.ltd@gmail.com angliankitchenfittingservices.co.uk Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 20
The residents have continued their activities with Randale Care staff, although they have missed their regular entertainers as they love a good old knees up and sing song. Rachael is looking forward to activities restarting in the wake of the vaccination programme, “Our fetes and garden parties are a great success, and we look forward to restarting these. We had established great links with Norwich Road School and the children were weekly visitors at Redgate. We are hopeful one day this can be resumed.”
Carpet Vinyl Luxury vinyl tiles
SERVICE UPDATE
* Currently appointments only * thetfordcarpetwarehouse.co.uk
Call us on
Rachael with one of the residents at Red House
Keeping families connected has been one of the biggest challenges this year as constant reports in the media have shown. At Redgate House and Red House, family members have been visiting in the new visitor pods and before that they had to use FaceTime and window visits. Since 8 March one designated family member can now visit indoors which Rachael says is a much needed step closer to how things were. “We do miss the busy days when visitors were present and all happily getting to know each other. We have had nothing but support from our residents’ families who we know have really struggled with the restrictions but have found time to say … these are carers who really understand residents’ health problems and do their utmost to make their lives a happy one.’’ In the past year Randale Care have continued to open their doors to new residents and they are all settling in very well. “What will we do when this is all over? No masks so residents can see our smiles , no social distancing so plenty of hugs and visitors inside filling the place with chatter, music and singing…. we cannot wait for this time.” For more information about Randale Care and the services they provide, please call 01842 753122 or visit: www.randalecare.co.uk If you have a ‘Fantastic Frontliners’ story to share with About Thetford, please email: aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com
760598
Powerclean QP Portrait Advert 10.20.qxp_Layout Unit 6 Faraday Place, Thetford, IP24 3RG 1 16/10
POWER CLEAN Your Local Trusted Cleaning Services High quality cleaning including l Carpet Cleaning in l Upholstery Thetford l Driveways for over 20 years l Fascias l Gutters using the Skyvac System Call David for a FREE no obligation quote
Tel: 01842 754163 or Mob: 07958 395 930
www.powerclean-thetford.co.uk
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 21
Safe Gas 1/4th Advert_Layout 1 08/12/2016 07:54 Pag
Garolla: Roller Garage Doors You Can Rely On Searching for Roller Garage Doors that offer unmatched quality at unbeatable prices? Then look no further than Garolla, the UK’s first nationwide Roller Garage Door installer. Transform the appearance of your exteriors and improve the security of your home all in one by updating to a Garolla Garage Door. Garolla electric roller garage doors are made to fit your needs. From electric activation to thermal efficiency, (and also available in whatever colour suits you) they work hard to ensure you receive the ideal garage door. With decades of experience delivering the highest quality products, Garolla’s British-made, bespoke doors are installed across the UK.
Plumbing & Heating specialists for domestic purposes. l
Central heating installations
l
Boiler changes
l
Landlord certifications & safety checks
l
Bathroom, shower & toilet installations
l
Cooker & hob installs
l
Fire installations
l
Water heater installs
Making your home as safe as our own! Licensed Gas Engineer
Update your garage door with a made to measure door by Garolla
Handmade by a team of skilled craftsmen, every Garolla Garage Door is made from only the very best materials and to your home’s exact specifications. From start to finish you will only work with your own local installer, guaranteeing no pushy salesmen in sight. As well as installing your Garage Door, your local installer will also conduct the initial survey of your property and will always answer any questions you might have. Offering style as well as substance, Garolla electric Garage Doors are available in 18 colours and come in two different slat sizes to perfectly fit any opening. Avoid any hidden charges with Garolla, where an instant quote comes inclusive of measuring, fitting and VAT. So, you can be sure on exactly what you’re spending. For more information visit their website: www.garolla.co.uk or, alternatively, give them a call on 0800 468 1982.
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 22
Breckland Cats Protection Brachycephalic syndrome is a condition in cats whereby the head (cephalic) is shortened (brachy). This shortening of skull bones give the face and nose a pushed in appearance. The anatomy and relationships with other soft tissue structures are altered and these changes can cause physical problems, particularly with breathing. The breeds that have this condition are mainly Persian, Himalayan and Burmese cats. Brachycephalic airway syndrome refers to a particular set of abnormalities that affect brachycephalic cats and dogs and brachycephalic syndrome is sometimes called congenital obstructive upper airway disease.
An example of a cat with Brachycephalic syndrome
noise, appear to tire easily with exertion and may collapse or faint after exercise. Other symptoms include coughing, gagging, retching or vomiting. Obesity worsens the symptoms. Mild symptoms may be managed by controlling exercise levels, avoiding hot or humid conditions and keeping the pet in an air conditioned area during the summer and avoiding stress. Corticosteroids and antiinflammatory drugs and oxygen therapy may all be useful for short term relief, but this does not correct the anatomical abnormalities.Surgery is the treatment of choice whereby a wedge of tissue is removed from the nostrils, allowing improved airflow and an elongated soft palate can be surgically shortened to a more normal length. A hypoplastic trachea means that the trachea Everted laryngeal saccules can be surgically has a smaller diameter than normal. The larngeal removed to eliminate the obstruction in the larynx. saccules are small sacs or pouches that are The appropriate management can significantly located just inside the larynx (voice box) which improve the quality of life for these cats. However turn outwards or are sucked into the airway when surgery to correct airway obstruction is by pressure associated with the increased carried out, these cats should not be used for respiratory effort caused by the stenotic nares breeding and should be neutered at the same time and/or the elongated soft palate. This further that the surgical correction is performed. For help obstructs airway flow. Mildly affected cats will or advice, or if you need assistance with the cost make some increased noise when they breathe or of neutering, please call us on 01842 810018. they may snore when the are sleeping. Severely Maid2Clean 1/8 AD 06.20.qxp_Layout 1 03/06/2020 11: affected cats have more pronounced airway Rita Thompson Other abnormalities that occur in this syndrome may include stenotic nares, an elongated soft palate, a hypoplastic trachea and everted laryngeal saccules. An affected cat may have a combination of one or more of these abnormalities. Cats with stenotic nares have abnormally narrowed, small nostrils which restricts the amount of air that can flow into the nose. A cat with an elongated soft palate (roof of the mouth) is too long for the length of the mouth and this partially blocks the entrance to the windpipe. These are the two most common defects seen in these cats.
Would you like a maid to clean your home? Could you use some help with your cleaning, ironing or both from as little as £13.90 per hour? You even get to meet your cleaner first! To book a cleaner call: 0800
878 6388 0330 010 6388
Are you looking for part time work? Call our recruitment hotline on 0843 289 6858 www.maid2cleansuffolk.co.uk
CATJOY PET SERVICES
www.catjoy.co.uk
We are a successful, family-run home-care for cats business. Quality, bespoke care for your cat(s) IN YOUR OWN HOME when you are away.
‘Great alternative to a cattery’ Details and customer testimonials on our website
Or call Jane 01953 888568/07875266059
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 23
THIS Garden Support Service The Horticulture Industry Scheme CIC - or THIS for short, has been awarded funding to help people who have been affected by Covid-19 with their gardens. THIS is headed up by Georgina Keatley and Tim Melvin, they bring in a team of gardeners and they spend one day clearing, tidying, mowing, cutting hedges, weeding and other similar tasks. The people THIS have helped have included a couple who have both suffered with Covid-19 and has been left very tired after their recovery, a doctor who has been working very long hours, a woman with Parkinson’s Disease who has been unable to go out, a family with a young child who has had health problems since birth which have meant regular hospital appointments and operations and a number of people with disabilities who have been shielding. All of the work is done following Covid-19 health and strict safety guidelines.
Lawns & turfing Hedge cutting Regular maintenance Garden clearance Concrete bases
Fencing & decking Pressure washing Shingle gardens Commercial grounds End of tenancy tidies
Find us on facebook
07786 851895 01953 714853
Betts of Brandon 1/8 AD.qxp_Layout 1 09/04/2019 16:38
email - eclipsegardens@btinternet.com
BETTS 01842811003 Call:
Of Brandon
Fengate Drove • Brandon
ALL TYPES OF FENCING AND GATES SUPPLIED AND FITTED Wall and hedge removal from boundaries Decking supplied and fitted
PLAYHOUSES FROM £371.00 HERITAGE BUILDINGS FROM £476.00
DIY Masters Advert.qxp_Layout 1 26/06/2020 08:51 P
DIY MASTERS Local, Reliable Home & Garden Services
Georgina (centre) and Tim (far right) with participants in one of the gardens that they weeded
The gardeners are people who have been in trouble or have suffered other difficulties such as homelessness. THIS gives them supported employment to help them overcome past problems. One of the participants said that they were really pleased to be able to help and being part of THIS had given them a love of working in gardens. Speaking about the project Georgina said, “It’s lovely when we’ve finished and you can see what a difference we’ve made. It gives the team a sense of achievement too.” The Horticulture Industry Scheme received funding for this new support service from the National Lottery, Breckland Council and the Social Enterprise Support Fund. If you know anyone who might benefit from this scheme, please email: georgina.keatley@this.org.uk
Garden Landscaping & Maintenance Pressure Washing Kitchen Fitting Bathroom Fitting Flat Pack Furniture Assembly
Skirting Boards Architraves Door Hanging Light Fixtures Curtain Poles Blind Installation Shelving Plus much more...
Free no obligation quote & no VAT Wayne 07983645266 or 01953 889076 Jason 07950565035 or 01842 755664 DIY-MASTERS@hotmail.com
No Job Too Small Visit our Facebook page to see some of our recent projects DIY MASTERS
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 24
Euston Hall Reopens Gardens
Thetford Open Gardens Returns After cancelling last year’s event due to the covid-19 situation, the team behind Thetford Open Gardens are delighted to announce the event will be returning for 2021 – with a few changes to keep everyone safe. On Sunday June 6th and 27th a number of gardens will open as ticketed events. Tickets will be sold through Leaping Hare Box Office and admission to the gardens will be limited. On June 6th all gardens will be adhering to the government’s rule of 30 and visitors will be checked in as they enter the gardens. You will also be asked to stick to social distancing guidelines, face masks are welcome if you would feel more comfortable wearing one. On June 27th if the current lockdown roadmap continues there should be no restrictions to the number allowed in each garden, but visitors will be asked to observe social distancing and some patience might be needed if gardens are busy. Refreshments are always a big part of the event, sadly this year only a takeaway service will be provided – but a piece of delicious cake to take home after a lovely garden visit is a treat in itself! Tickets for the event this year will be limited and for the first time in 14 years the price is increasing. A single ticket will cost £10 per day or for both days £15. “We’ve thought long and hard about the increase”, explained organiser Rachel Woods, “It’s still less than £1 per garden which is much cheaper than the National Garden Scheme, and the hospice has struggled with no event income for over a year, so needs as much help as possible.” The team also decided not to hold their usual grand raffle, preferring not to ask local businesses to donate as they will have faced struggles themselves over the past year. Don’t forget there’s plenty of lovely plants arriving daily on the plant stall at 28 Arlington Way, along with a selection of books and other gardening sundries. All proceeds go to St Nicholas Hospice.
After a difficult year, Euston Hall’s special team of volunteers are thrilled at the prospect of being able to open their gates and doors again. The team enable the home of the 12th Duke of Grafton and his family to be opened each summer, but sadly the pandemic restricted that last year. They pride themselves on Euston being a refreshingly different sort of visitor attraction, personable, unfussy and friendly. Their first opening from Monday 10th – Sunday 16th May will be gardens only in keeping with Government recommendations. The estate comprises 10,500 acres of landscaped gardens, parkland, ancient broadleaf woodland and agricultural farmland. Then between Tuesday 25th and Monday 31st May in addition to the gardens, they will offer limited number tours of the Hall. By September (Friday 17th – Thursday 23rd), slightly larger tours will be offered. What better way to enjoy coming out of lockdown and just 5 minutes from Thetford? Tickets must be booked in advance from the Leaping Hare Box Office. You can find full details at www.leapinghare.org or call 07802 701911. All profits resulting from the open days are donated to local charities via The Suffolk Community Foundation.
EUSTON PARK & PLEASURE GROUNDS GARDENS ONLY
Monday 10th - Sunday 16th May Grounds open 10am - 2pm
£8 & £6
Accompanied Children under 12 FREE
EUSTON, SUFFOLK, IP24 2QH
07802 701911
Proceedswhen donated toresponding local charities via to advertisements Please mention the About Thetford Magazine 25 Suffolk Community Foundation
Still Singing! There is no stopping Thetford Singers from singing even if rehearsals have changed somewhat this year. Experimenting with the possibilities of ‘singing together’ by Zoom have been a revelation. Musical Director Chris Parsons has led the way from his home with the accompanist assisting from her home and members singing in their homes. But it works! It even means a previous member has re-joined the choir from her home in France! So much new material has been added to the choir’s repertoire from folk songs to ballads to Christmas songs, traditional, jazzy and the more unusual, all to be performed as a choir in the future. Singing together, even by zoom, is certainly good for well-being and an evening of the week that the members all look forward to! The second half of rehearsals has been a social time of sharing ‘desert isolation discs’ by the members, quizzes and sharing favourite songs. This has proved to be a great way of getting to
know each other as well as educational and fun! So, as we look forward into 2021, rehearsals will continue in this fashion at present! Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings from 7.30pm - 9.30pm. New members are always welcome. if you are interested in having a taste of singing on Zoom or joining us in person at some point in 2021 please contact the Thetford Singers Secretary by e-mail: hilarylevan1@gmail.com
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 26
Adventure Games At Thetford Priory The Escape Games Company is launching an exciting new outside adventure game concept this Spring to Thetford, in association with English Heritage. The adventure games will be played at Thetford Priory and will see participants collaborate together in small groups to solve puzzles and crack clues inspired by the compelling heritage of the sites. Actors in full costume will bring the games to life, engaging and interacting with players and further enhancing the experience. Enjoy a series of adventure games at Thetford Priory this summer
COVID-safety will be paramount, with all activities outside and all clues and props cleaned and sanitised after every game. The sizes of groups and the number of households allowed to mix will also be adhered to depending on Covid restrictions.
support people’s physical and mental health,” Cox continued. “Our problem-solving games will bring the feel-good factor and plenty of active fun and excitement in amazing, heritage locations.”
Last summer, The Escape Games Company ran a successful pilot at Berkhamsted Castle, an English Heritage site in Hertfordshire where more than 95% of players said they would recommend the experience. The games will be delivered under their ‘Adventure Out! Games’ brand, which focuses on outdoor, escape style themed games in amazing sites around England.
Adventure Out! Games are around one hour in duration and can be booked in advance at www.adventureoutgames.co.uk with games in Norfolk launching from 16 April with a money back guarantee should COVID restrictions change. Prices start at £10 per person. Games will be available on weekdays, at weekends and throughout the school holidays.
The games are expected to appeal to a broad audience including families and friends of all ages, along with school groups and those looking for corporate team building activities. Owner and founder Ian Cox said: “We are really excited to launch our games at Thetford Priory. Our objective is to help bring these magnificent locations to life with fun, energising games founded in fact and inspired by the past.”
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:
As every game is outside, there is also a strong 01842 754005 emphasis on wellbeing. “After months of lockdown Simark Accountants Belmont House and amounts of 6.qxp_Layout time spent in 1front of Theinordinate Mulberry REV Advert 19/01/2021 15:44 Page 1 20 King Street Thetford Norfolk IP24 2AP screens, we wanted to provide activities that
the
Mulberry
www.mulberrythetford.co.uk
Deliveries available Tuesday to Saturday. NON CONTACT DELIVERIES AVAILABLE. Please get in touch for the menu - it is changed weekly 11 Raymond Street Thetford IP24 2EA
Tel: 01842 824122
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 27
Ear Irrigation 1/8 Ad.qxp_Layout 1 24/01/2020 09:11 Pa
Let’s Face It! As I write this we are preparing to open again after Lockdown 3! We are excited to get back to seeing our clients and the other therapists on Monday 12th April. It feels like it has been such a long time coming. So many clients have contacted us via email to book appointments especially facials as their skin has suffered more over the winter months with drying central heating and cold windy weather, leaving skin sensitised, dehydrated together with mask wearing irritating the skin and causing breakouts. We very much work with our clients to address their individual needs and can customise any of our skin care treatment to help deal with these problems, be it in need of more calming, hydrating or deeply purifying and exfoliating we have it covered and recommend a home care regime to help maintain great results until their next salon visit. We will still be taking PPE very seriously and maintaining high standards of sanitation to keep our client and staff protected. We are able to perform all our treatments again, from waxing to IPL, facials, manicures and pedicures, albeit some in slightly different ways and all treatments having longer between the next to allow deep cleaning of our treatment rooms.
Ear Irrigation Flexible and professional wax removal service
HOME VISITS Provided by friendly, registered nurses
Mobile: 07507 662554
www.earirrigationeast.co.uk
Ovenclean AD.qxp_Layout 1 22/01/2021 08:41 Page 1 earirrigationeast@gmail.com
DIRTY OVEN?? DOMESTIC OVEN CLEANING
By The UK’s Leading Oven Cleaning Company
NON Caustic, fresh solution every time • Hobs • Extractors • Microwaves • • Agas • Ranges • BBQs • Phone Richard Langston
01379 890723 or 07494 869756 www.ovenclean.com
We look forward to seeing you at Halcyon Days Skincare. Kindest regards , Lisa Stallings, Halcyon Days
The Old Rent Office King’s House, King Street THETFORD Norfolk. IP24 2AP
Appointments:
IPL Hair Removal • IPL Skin Rejuvenation Permanent make up • Opi Nail Treatments CACI Non Surgical Facelift • Venus Freeze Halcyon Days Signature Bespoke Facials
Foot Health: 01842-339958 Therapies: 07775 535 617
Www.mjfeetandhealthpractice.co.uk Email: mjfeethealthpractice@gmail.com
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 28
The Yoni Wellness Clinic 1 Year On - Resilence & Reflection This time last year the clinic had closed and I began to move things online, we thought it might only be a few weeks - little did we know! Pre covid I had never taught online. Now with a weekly schedule and monthly specials, over 150 recordings and 6 on demand packages I’m proud to say I made it! Thank you to everyone who has supported me, my business and my family this last year. Do check out the website to see just what I have been up to and where the business will be going next.
To my gorgeous members, the one thing I take away from all this is the love & support you have shown me and each other. I never thought it could work as well as it has. Exercise, personal training, counselling, group workshops, socials; our only 'fail' was singing but even that had gone down as a positive memory. Online Offers Pay as you go options or a weekly pass for £15, including access to the VIP 24/7 members area. Tuesday 9.30am - Pilates with MJ Suitable for all levels & abilities. PAYG £8
Wednesday 6pm - Core Conditioning It gets deep! We will crunch, pulse, hold & repeat in all different positions. PAYG £5 Wednesday 6.30pm - Just Breathe & Release Feel your mind quieten down & your body ease. PAYG £5 Thursday 9.30am - Simply Stretch Full body; until you stretch you truly do not appreciate just how much you need it! Thursday 7pm - Rest & Restore A full body & mind experience
For more information visit: www.theyoniwellnessclinic.com
Baking Dream Comes True Bakes by Rose is a traditional home-based bakery in Thetford which was established in July 2020. Opened by local resident Hannah Higgins, who decided to follow her baking dream and start her own baking business. Bakes by Rose offers a range of traditional baked goods such as cakes, brownies, bread pudding, chocolate oats and scones but also offers delicious afternoon tea boxes and celebration cakes too!
Thetford baker Hannah with one of her most popular creations - a carrot cake
Speaking about her love of baking Hannah said, “From a young age, I have dreamt of owning my own little traditional bakery shop, I vividly remember the old traditional bakery in the town centre next to where Savers is now, and I’ve always dreamt of having something similar which I can call my own. Creating Bakes by Rose was the first step, and I can’t believe how popular it has been this far, maybe one day you’ll find me in a shop in the town centre offering an array of traditional, home baked treats but for now I hope that people will continue to support my little business and help it grow.” Bakes by Rose offers collections and deliveries throughout the week, for more information or to place an order, you can email Bakesbyrose@outlook.com or find us on Facebook BakesbyRose.x and Instagram bakesbyrose_x
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 29
The Victorian Toy Theatre This month the Friends of Ancient House Museum are taking their popular talks programme online via Zoom. The programme will kick off on 13th April at 7pm with Dan Morgan, Secretary of the Friends, talking about Victorian Toy Theatres. This will be free to attend for Friends (or those who are Norfolk Museum Pass Holders). If you are not already a member the ticket price is £7.50. Or you can join the Friends of Ancient House Museum up to December 2021 for £7.50. Dan Morgan said “Today the idea of a toy theatre with paper actors and scenery seems inextricably linked with Benjamin Pollock, and in London today it’s possible to find both a shop and a museum bearing his name. In this talk we will explore the rich and colourful history of an ephemeral toy that began in Regency London, became a staple of Victorian childhood, was blown up in the Blitz, but even today has a small but dedicated following.” Oliver Bone, Curator of Ancient House Museum said: “We are excited to see the Friends talks programme joining the digital age and a great bonus for our loyal Friends during Covid. Remember your 2020 membership card is valid until December 2021. Ancient House Friends give
us wonderful support and members are entitled to an array of benefits, such as a 10% discount at Norfolk Museums Service shops and free entry to Ancient House throughout the year (when we are able to reopen!)”. Tickets for all Ancient House Museum and Norfolk Museums Service events can be found online at Art Tickets. Prior to our Victorian Toy Theatre event you can join us for our Ask The Expert session on 8th April and meet Dayna, the Assistant Curator at Lynn Museum. Find out about Dayna’s job and one of the strange behind the scenes tasks!
Funeral plans from Mark Skinner Funeral Service
Save
£100
by applying today
We recommend Independent Way funeral plans from Golden Charter, the UK’s largest provider of plans to independent funeral directors like us.
Ask for more information today Mark Skinner Funeral Service, 30 Bury Road, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 3DE.
Call (01842) 752197 THE
Independent Way In association with
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 30
GC-LIFT 12393
A funeral plan leaves nothing to chance and provides peace of mind for you and those you care about
Past & Present
The area surrounding St Peter’s Church and the Burrell Works has changed dramatically over the past 96 years. Thetford Inner Relief Road was built in the late 1960s; the Burrell buildings on the bottom left have given way to retail units and a car park, although the paint shop remains as the Charles Burrell Museum. Past Image: David Osborne Collection / NMS. Present Photo: Neil James Media Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 31
Book Success For Thetford First Time Author Sue Brady has lived in Thetford for over 30 years with her husband and has enjoyed a variety of jobs from being on the pick and mix counter at Woolwoths as a teen to being Mum to her children and now working in recruitment. A redundancy 3 years ago gave Sue the time to finish her first novel ‘Precious Gems’. A love of books from an early age saw Sue going to the local library on a Saturday morning to choose the 4 books she could take out that week! She said, “My library card was like a golden ticket to me and even as a young girl I would dream of seeing my book on the shelves one day”. Writing for fun has always been something that Sue has enjoyed and she has even written a poem in memory of a beloved co-worker who sadly passed away. Getting the email offer from Pegasus to publish Precious Gems was a day Sue says she won’t forget. Getting such positive feedback from people who have already read the book helps her to overcome any self doubt she has about her abilities as a writer. She says that holding that first copy of her book in her hands was a marvellous feeling, “One I will never forget”.
Thetford author Sue Brady with a copy of her first book, Precious Gems
Precious Gems by Sue Brady is available to buy online via; www.amazon.co.uk or, Home Flamewww.waterstones.com QP Ad.qxp_Layout 1 10/10/2018 13:33 Pa
Precious Gems follows two lifelong friends through their lives, their marriages, children and grandchildren. It deals with all those joys as well as the sadness of losing friends and loved ones and also the knowledge that at 90 years of age they too will pass away. Once things are back to normal Sue is hoping to hold some book signings where we are sure she will be happy to chat to you about her experiences of working towards being a published author! She is also working on her second novel which she hopes to publish later this year.
Breckland
Accountancy Ltd VAT Returns Payroll Tax Returns Financial Forecasting Budgeting Business Plans Year End Accounts Self Employed to Small Ltd Companies l
l
l
l
Competitive Rates No Job Too Small
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
• SERVICING • REPAIRS • • BATHROOMS • • HEATING INSTALLATIONS • • LANDLORD CERTIFICATES •
Contact Martin: 07879 698271 homeflamegasservices.co.uk With over 35 years experience, we are the local company you can trust
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 32
Not Just Books Here at Not Just Books, we’re really looking forward to being able to open our doors again for browsing, fingers are firmly crossed for April 12th! When we first came up with the plan to open a bookshop in Thetford, we really wanted to offer something to the community and are working on an events space upstairs for book-clubs, author events and other book related shenanigans!
veteran writers,Zadie Smith and Nick Laird, and introduces an exciting debut illustrator. Together they have created a picture book that adults and children alike will treasure. It’s all about Maud: a guinea pig who inexplicably wears a judo suit and not everyone understands or approves. Pip
Williams’ The Dictionary of Lost Words has been described as an enchanting story about love, loss and the power of language, what gets recorded and what gets forgotten. Set at a time when women’s voices were clamouring more than ever to be heard, it moved me greatly to think how history is skewed by those who hold power and how important it is that novels like this redress that balance; (Elizabeth Macneal, author of The Doll Factory)
Sadly, this is a little way off but we’re really excited to bring Thetford its first Virtual signing! Jon McGregor, novelist and short story writer, grew up in Thetford. In 2002, his first novel was longlisted for the Booker Prize which made him the youngest ever contender. His second and fourth novels were longlisted for the Booker Prize in 2006 and 2017 respectively. His new novel Lean Fall Stand is being released 29th April and we are taking pre-orders for signed and dedicated copies now. Our Indie Books for the month for April are Weirdo and The Dictionary of Lost Words. The children’s title Weirdo is an endearing story about the quiet power of being different by two
Thank you all for your support over the last few months and we look forward to welcoming you back to browse!
COMPETITION TIME!
We’ve got a copy of Ciara Attwell’s recently published batch cooking cookbook: We’re Hungry! to give away. We love the idea of freezer stash bags and the Chicken Tikka Marsala one has become a favourite at home! To be in with a chance of winning email: j.james@notjustbooks.co.uk with “We’re Hungry!” in the subject line and your name in the message. We’ll make the draw at the close of business Monday 12th April.
NotJustBooks Independent Bookshop 23 Riverside Walk Thetford. IP24 2BB 01842 753660 Follow us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
PC or Laptop running SLOW? Got A Virus? Need help? Friendly and professional IT service for Mac or Windows, call Joe Richards on
Telephone: 01953 718421 Mobile: 07928 326008 Email: help@bailiwickit.com Website: www.bailiwickit.com
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 33
Citizens Advice Need Volunteers Citizens Advice is a charity, and part of a network across 2,500 locations in England and Wales. We are looking for more volunteers to train as Advisers based at Citizens Advice Thetford office. You would be trained to give face-to-face advice and support people in the local community on issues such as access to benefits, housing, money advice, relationships and much more. Your Skills - You Will Be: • Computer literate and ‘keyboard’ confident • Non-judgemental & have a desire to help others • Have the time to commit to volunteering one day a week in our Thetford office (likely to be either a Monday or Friday) • Happy to commit to a training programme and continuous development What could you get from volunteering with us? : • The opportunity to help people in your local community and really make a difference to people’s lives • Put your existing skills & experience to good use • Learn new skills and challenge yourself • Meet new people and be part of a friendly team • Enjoy free training and full support
We asked our volunteers why they chose to volunteer with us: “I was able to use skills that I had developed during my working life, such as analysis, problem solving, project management and team working” Another said; “The service is crucial for enabling the public to understand their options and rights. I believe individuals have the right to be informed and enabled to empower themselves” Volunteering can also help increase your job prospect and boost confidence. For an informal chat about volunteering, please contact our Leaning and Development Lead, Becky Chapman, who will be happy to answer any questions. Telephone: 07487 225709 or e-mail: Becky.chapman@cadat.org.uk
Painting & Decorating Bathroom & Kitchen Tiling Plumbing Partition Walls Wood Floor Fitting Loft Boarding Decking Fencing & Carpentry Work Paths & Patios Laid Roof Repairs, Cleaning & Gutterings General Repairs & More!
01953 542313 07756 776995 i n f o @ j p - p r o p e r t y m a i n t e n a n c e . c o. u k w w w. j p - p r o p e r t y m a i n t e n a n c e . c o. u k
COVID-19
1
Wear Face Coverings
3
Check our Temperature
During & between site visits & jobs, we will:
2
Sanitise Our Hands
4
Practise Distancing
PREVENTION
2m 6ft
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 34
New CEO For Inspiration Trust Inspiration Trust is pleased to announce that Gareth Stevens has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the trust, succeeding Dame Rachel de Souza who became the Children's Commissioner for England on 1st March. The Thetford Academy, educating 1,500 students in the town is part of the Inspiration Trust’s portfolio of schools in the county. Gareth Stevens was formerly the trust’s Secondary Director and provided support to eight secondary schools. Previously, he was the Principal of Hethersett Academy and successfully turned the school around from special measures to outstanding within two years. Under his leadership, Hethersett Academy has become one of the top performing schools in the region. Gareth Stevens said: “I am delighted to be appointed as Chief Executive and look forward to working with our family of schools to positively impact students' lives. I have the benefit of inheriting an extremely strong team from Dame Rachel and am proud to lead 14 schools at the centre of their communities.” David Tibble, Chair of Inspiration Trust, said: “After a rigorous recruitment process, we’re very pleased to appoint Gareth Stevens. Having worked with Gareth over an eight-year period I am confident that he can continue to build on the strong foundations already in place. Following the impact of Covid-19 on our communities and our students’ education, all the trust's resources will be needed to quickly aid their mental, physical and educational recovery.”
Inspiration Trust’s new CEO Gareth Stevens who has recently taken over from Dame Rachel de Souza
CYNTHIA DELLA HOY’S CROXTON CHARITY CHARITY NUMBER 1148374
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES The Trustees are able to make grants from their retained funds to charities and other organisations benefitting the communities of Thetford, the villages of Croxton, Kilverstone and East Wretham.
Dame Rachel de Souza said: “The Inspiration Trust is very close to my heart and I’m pleased to be leaving it in safe hands. We have a dedicated team, committed to ensuring every child receives an excellent education. I’m looking forward to seeing the trust go from strength to strength under Gareth’s wonderful leadership. I will sincerely miss being at Inspiration Trust and wish everyone the very best for the future.”
Charities, community groups and other organizations within the area outlined who wish to seek assistance from this charity for themselves or on behalf of another, may request a grant application form from the charity’s secretary.
In addition, the trust has announced that Lord Agnew will be re-joining as a trustee. David Tibble said: “We welcome our founder back to the trust as he adds to the educational expertise, so that our trustees can help to guide Gareth and his team on the next stage of our journey. We all give Dame Rachel our deepest thanks and very best wishes in her challenging new role at this critical time.”
N J Manderfield – 01842 762978 cdhcc2012@gmail.com
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 35
DKM Services AD.qxp_Layout 1 09/07/2018 15:51 Pag Gorse Motors March 2016_Layout 1 16/02/2016 08:02
DKM Services TYRES l EXHAUSTS l SUSPENSION ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS l BRAKES l SERVICING
Free MOT with Major service
RETESTS FREE
FOR ALL MAKES OF CARS AND VANS Now offering air conditioning servicing 5 Leyland Close, Fison Way Ind. Estate Thetford IP24 1XA
Tel: 01842 753733 Find us on facebook DKM SERVICES
• All Makes Servicing to Manufacturers Specification
DISCOUNT MOTs
• 3D Wheel Alignment
FREE RETESTS
• Tyres/Exhausts • Computer aided DIAGNOSTICS on all systems • Free Loan Cars Available
01842 890304 or 07737 151916
Servicing and Repairs on all Makes & Models Engine Management Diagnostics Fault Code Reader • Tyres & Exhausts (Hackney Carriages and Private Hire Tested) Air Conditioning (Repairs, Recharges, Diagnostics, Service)
DISCOUNT MOTs
Gorse Industrial Estate, Barnham, Thetford Abbey Garage AD.qxp_Layout 1 17/07/2017 14:36 Pag www.gorsemotors.co.uk Email: info@gorsemotors.co.uk
ABBEY GARAGE MOTOR ENGINEERS
l l l l
Servicing l MOTs Exhausts l Brakes Diagnostics Steering Suspension & Shock Absorbers Friendly, affordable & local
& 01842 755398 Unit 2, 22 Millers Lane, Thetford, IP24 1AP
Had a quote elsewhere!! Give us a call, we may be able to beat it Open Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm and Saturdays 8am - 1pm
VICKERS MOTORS LTD The Female Friendly Garage Good Honest Service
Telephone:
01842 765122 Email:
info@vickersmotors.co.uk 23 Brunel Way, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 1HP
Reliable Family Run Business
VEHICLE OFFERS Merc Sprinter Daily Rate - £84.00 Weekend Rate - £126.00
Ford Fiesta Daily Rate - £33.60 Weekend Rate - £60.00
Open Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm Rates include VAT & Insurance Other vehicles available Customer pick up and drop off available
Tel: 01842 768036 or 01842 764467 2 FISON WAY, THETFORD IP24 1HT www.easyfleet.co.uk
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 36
Vanilla Completes Acquisition Of Bela Electronic Designs Vanilla Electronics Ltd, based in Thetford, has announced the completion of its first acquisition - leading electronics manufacturing services business, Bela Electronic Designs Ltd, with the support of Literacy Capital. The strategic acquisition sees Vanilla strengthen its technical capability in providing complex electronics design and manufacturing activities, whilst providing a stronger foothold on early product development to its global manufacturing customer base. Founded in 1986, by Mike Lafratta, Bela is now regarded as the one of the market leaders in the small to medium volume high complexity manufacturing niche. Bela have worked hard to establish an excellent reputation in the design and manufacture of printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) and the management team has ensured that the business remains close to its core values based primarily on service and integrity. Vanilla Electronics, formed in 2002, provide supply chain services to global technology manufacturers, consolidating their typically complex supply chains, leading to operational and financial benefits and longevity in relationships. Shipping over a million parts per day from their 25,000 square foot automated warehouse, Vanilla offers a fully outsourced service. From design, material procurement, kitting, manufacturing, through to end-customer order fulfilment, product returns, warranty, repair and re-supply.
(L to R) Matt Negus CFO of Vanilla Electronics, Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen, Leader of Breckland Council, Liz Truss MP, Secretary of State for International Trade and Dan Croft CEO of Vanilla Electronics
Mike Lafratta, MD at Bela, said: “Thanks to all those who have helped me develop Bela over the past 35 years. This new collaboration is a great opportunity to provide a new level of growth. Michael, Dan and Matt will continue to develop those values that we have held close, providing excellent customer service, beyond expectations, in the field of electronic design and manufacture. Vanilla continues to look at other acquisitions that add technical, regional and commercial value to the Vanilla Group and its customers.
Transform your home!
Dan Croft, CEO at Vanilla Group, said: “Bela’s technical and highly proficient PCB design and manufacturing services perfectly complement Vanilla’s supply chain. The new partnership will provide manufacturing customers worldwide with a fully scalable manufacturing service, from early product design, design for manufacture support, through to volume production.” CLADDING
WINDOWS
DOORS
CONSERVATORIES
If you are looking to update the look of your house, Frames Conservatories Direct can help you. With our amazing range of products you will be spoilt for choice! Visit our showroom today for advice and a free quotation.
Add some kerb appeal to your home, call us now on:
FULLY INSURED & PART P ELECTRICIAN DOMESTIC, COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL WORK UNDERTAKEN Fuse board upgrades, rewires additions/alterations to existing circuits, inspect & test certificates + many more jobs. Friendly, reliable & trustworthy. 01842 337801 / 07725 658 924 | info@fosterelectricalservice.co.uk www.fosterelectricalservice.co.uk
01842 739414
Or visit www.fcdhomeimprovements.co.uk Your nearest showroom is at Unit 3, Barton Road Retail Park, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP32 7BE (Nr Farm Foods)
ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS CLADDING WINDOWS DOORS CONSERVATORIES FASCIAS & SOFFITS
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 37
Be Aware: Courier Fraud Hello everyone, and I hope you are all well. This month I would like to draw your attention to Scams and specifically raise the profile of what is known as ‘Courier Fraud’. Currently, Police are urging members of the public to be vigilant following a number of telephone scams across the county. Recently Officers have received several reports in which victims have been contacted by fraudsters claiming to be Police Officers. Examples of these reports include an incident which happened in February when the victim, a woman aged in her 70s and from the Wymondham area, was contacted by a fraudster purporting to be a Police Officer. During the call the victim was encouraged to transfer large amounts of money from her bank account, after being coerced into believing that she was part of an undercover police operation. She was conned out of £30,000. Another incident, also reported in February involved a man aged in his 20s, and from the Norwich area, again he was contacted by a fraudster purporting to be a Police Officer. The caller had cloned the Norfolk Police number, making the victim believe that he was speaking to a genuine Police Officer. Courier Fraud happens when a fraudster contacts a victim by telephone claiming to be a Police Officer, bank or from a government department, among other agencies. A number of techniques will then be adopted in order to convince the victim to hand over their bank details or cash, which may then be passed on to a courier. Residents are reminded that neither the police nor your bank will ever ask you to withdraw or transfer money or purchase items. Further advice includes: • Police officers, banks and other government agencies will NEVER ask you to withdraw money or transfer it to another account as part of an undercover operation.
• They will NEVER ask you to reveal your full banking password or PIN. • The police will NEVER send someone to your address to collect money, cards or PIN Numbers or ask you to deliver these to another location. Try these steps if you are approached: • STOP – take a moment to think before parting with your money or information. • CHALLENGE – Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests, only criminals will try to rush or panic you. • PROTECT – Contact your bank immediately if you think you have fallen victim to a scam and make sure that you Report it. You can confirm requests are genuine by using a known number or email address to contact the organisations directly. Ask for ID from individuals who have approached you. If you're asked to telephone a bank, then always do it on a different phone to the one you were contacted on. If anyone has received a similar type of telephone call or has any information about these incidents. Contact Norfolk Police on 101 quoting Operation Radium. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111. If you believe a crime is in progress, always call 999. For further advice, visit the Action Fraud website: www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. PC Gilluley, Community Engagement Officer Norfolk Constabulary
Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 38
Looking for that egg-cellent service Thinking of Selling or Letting? Whatever your property requirements, we can help. We know the property market and understand how it works, which means we can keep you on track with your next move.
If you are buying, selling, letting or renting, look no further... LAWSONS ESTATE AGENTS HAVE SOLD MORE PROPERTIES YEAR TO DATE IN IP24 THAN ANY OTHER THETFORD BASED AGENT*
Contact Us Today For Your FREE Valuation
01842 755422
2 Bridge Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 3BL E. sales@lawsonsestateagents.co.uk
www.lawsonsestateagents.co.uk
*Data Provided By Online Portals From 1/1/21 – 14/3/21
