FEBRUARY 2023 About Thetford magazine

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February’s

February’s Chilly Beauty

We’ve had some very cold starts to each day of late, something that will no doubt continue through February. It does make everything look quite beautiful but there’s plenty of hazards with the cold weather too. Do make sure you take extra care of yourself and others this month.

We’ve had some late, something February. It beautiful but weather too. yourself and Karen’s been weeks, enjoying popping along about it inside the success We also bring schools too taking over and Bishops February Island and they’re well free to share

Karen’s been out and about over the past few weeks, enjoying a performance of the Panto and popping along to the Singh Twins’ exhibition. Read about it inside this month along with an update on the success of the Horticulture Industry Scheme. We also bring you news from some of our local schools too and we warmly welcome new staff taking over at the helm of both Diamond Academy and Bishops CofE Primary Academy.

February will see the snowdrops around Butten Island and Spring Walk popping up - if you get time they’re well worth going to have a look at. Do feel free to share with us any pictures you take!

Jermy, Editor, About Thetford magazine

Inside this month...

Page 5 - Singh Twins Exhibition Page 6 - Ukraine Commemoration Event Page 7 - All The Fun Of The Country Fair Page 9 - Changes To Voter ID Law Page 11 - Thetford Open Gardens Returns Page 13 - Bigging Upp Community Page 15 - A Bright New Year For u3a Page 16 - Range Of Services At Library Page 17 - Players Panto Success Page 27 - Norfolk Trusted Trader Scheme Page 29 - Terning The Tide On Bird Flu Page 30 & 31 - THIS Celebrates Five Years Page 33 - Not Just Books Page 35 - Diamond Academy’s New Start Page 39 - Money Matters Column Page 41 - Grants To Celebrate Coronation Page 44 - Dealing With Damp In The Home

Front cover image: ©neiljamesmedia.com

About Thetford magazine is printed on carbon balanced paper in Norfolk

Terry

Thetford

Internationally

Internationally appeared in Slaves Of Museum and With’ was Modern and themes of linked to collections across the pioneering of the Indian address a and political months researching at Norwich includes strong Duleep Singh connections ‘Casualty that references last Maharajah Duleep Singh exhibition painting Sophia Duleep Threads of references

Thetford Collections Featured By Internationally Renowned Artists

Internationally renowned artists, the Singh Twins appeared in Norwich during January as part of their Slaves Of Fashion exhibition at Norwich Castle Museum and East Gallery, NUA. ‘In Conversation With’ was hosted by Dr Rosy Gray, Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, who explored the themes of the exhibition and how the works were linked to collections from museums and galleries across the UK. The Singh Twins are known for pioneering a modern development of the Indian miniature tradition to address a range of modern, social and political themes. They spent months researching the collections at Norwich Castle. The exhibition includes strong references to the Duleep Singh family and their connections to the Thetford area.

‘Casualty of War’ – the painting that references the story of the last Maharajah of the Punjab, Duleep Singh is part of the exhibition along with a large painting featuring Princess Sophia Duleep Singh in ‘Cotton: Threads of Change’ which also references her father, Maharajah Duleep Singh.

Slaves of interpret historical often link to triangle of The trade slave trade in Britain The exhibition who and what hidden histories past and present. Singh Twins Interior Ask for Telephone: Email:

David Powell

Slaves of Fashion is an exploration in how we interpret historical objects, and how these objects often link to each other as part of the global textile triangle of slavery, unethical trade and conflict. The trade of Indian textiles has been linked to the slave trade in America, the Industrial Revolution in Britain and the rise of the western empires. The exhibition also explores luxury lifestyles and who and what paid for that lifestyle, uncovering hidden histories and challenging ideas, both past and present. Speaking about their work the Singh Twins said, “An object in a museum is not

just a thing, it has a beauty and history. Our work is research driven and we’ve also built up our own archive. The show is never the same, as everywhere it’s exhibited, we work with local collections, certain stories come out in different venues.” As part of the Norwich exhibition a new work was commissioned which will go on permanent display at Norwich Castle Museum alongside a curated display by The Singh Twins. The piece, titled ‘Alternative A-Z of Empire’, has been inspired by the collections at Norfolk Museum Service. Talking about the work the Singh Twins said, “Issues around shared heritage and identity which challenge generally accepted notions of cultural ownership and the perceived divide between East and West and past and present, have always been central to our art. Our aim was to explore what seemingly unrelated objects from different periods and cultures reveal about the story of Empire and colonialism and how we are all connected to it both historically and today.”

Thetford is represented by the letter D, referencing the Duleep Singh story, a map and the bible on display at Ancient House Museum alongside a miniature from the collections and the gravestone at Elveden churchyard.

The Thetford connection with the Singh Twins continues as the painting of Elizabeth I from the Prince Frederick Duleep Singh painting collection, displayed in Ancient House is set to feature in a new mural being unveiled in Manchester Museum’s new South Asia Gallery.

Above: The Singh Twins with their Alternative A-Z of Empire, Centre: Elizabeth I Both images © Norfolk Museum Service

ACommunity Event To Commemorate A Year Of War In Ukraine

A memorial February on King Street Ukraine was that continues community Ukrainian began. The for Ukrainian them to commemorate of the past to the future.

A memorial event will take place on Sunday 26th February at 3.30pm at St. Cuthbert's Church on King Street in Thetford, to mark a year since Ukraine was brutally attacked by Russia in a war that continues to this day. Thetford and the wider community opened their hearts and homes to the Ukrainian community when Russia's illegal war began. The 26th February event is an opportunity for Ukrainian people and anyone who supports them to commemorate the very distressing events of the past twelve months, but to look with hope to the future.

Jonny Holdcroft worked to Norfolk and rallied round year, not areas. Businesses Ukraine, local by the war in a really distressing

Jonny Holdcroft from Croxton, whose family has worked to support the Ukrainian community in Norfolk and Ukraine said: 'People across the world rallied round Ukraine and its people over the past year, not least in Thetford and the surrounding areas. Businesses arranged aid shipments for Ukraine, local people hosted Ukrainians displaced by the war and helped in a host of other ways, in a really heartwarming response to otherwise distressing events.

“I don't know it feels like

“I don't know when this war will end, but a year into it feels like an important moment to commemorate

Above: Local people working together to send aid to Ukraine last year Image: © Neil James Media

Right: St Cuthbert’s in King Street is hosting a service on February 26th

its victims, to mark the strong ties that have been forged between our area and the Ukrainian community and to look with some hope towards a peaceful future for Ukraine.”

Simon Long HP Advert 2018.qxp_Layout 1 13/09/2018 10:01 Page 1

Anyone is welcome to attend the event at St. Cuthbert's, be they Ukrainian people, or anyone who supports them.

All The

The East take place April 2023 off the A11, Grafton. We attractions displays year’s show Army Parachute with a spectacular Squibb Freestyle Show performing jumps and and returning demand, UK Championships speed, agility are all required! participation spur on the provides great for all the family.

All The Fun Of The Country Fair!

The East Anglian Game and Country Fair will take place on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd April 2023 at the prestigious Euston Estate, just off the A11, home to The Duke and Duchess of Grafton. We welcome world class events and attractions to the show each year. Main Arena displays confirmed for this year’s show include The Tigers Army Parachute Display Team with a spectacular display, The Squibb Freestyle Motorcross Show performing breath-taking jumps and stunts mid-air, and returning due to popular demand, the Horseboarding UK Championships where speed, agility and bravery are all required! Audience participation is encouraged to spur on the competitors and provides great entertainment for all the family.

We have up of more watch in and across including British Scurry Driving Championships, Display Team, with World the hilarious Demonstrations Craft demonstrations and have from clay Lodge instructors shooting competition Fly fishing River, ferret

We have a fantastic line up of more free events to watch in the Main Arena and across the show including the much-loved British Scurry and Trials Driving Championships, Lowestoft Dog Agility Display Team, Gun Dog displays, Fishing demos with World Champion Fly Caster Hywel Morgan, the hilarious Sheep Show, Traditional Ferreting Demonstrations with Simon Whitehead, Live Craft demonstrations and much more! Join in and have a go at a range of country activities from clay shooting with John Bidwell’s High Lodge instructors or enter the forty-bird re-entry shooting competition for men, women and juniors. Fly fishing and coarse fishing on the Black Bourn River, ferret racing, archery and axe throwing.

Try the air rifle range, enter your dog into the pet dog show, join in with your dog at the K9 Aqua Sports pool or watch the Landrovers take on the off-road 4x4 course.

There are over 350 shopping stands with a wide variety of products from fashion and footwear to gun makers and fishing products. Children’s activities, traditional fun fair, food and drink hall with Game Fair Country Kitchen, craft and gift marquees and much more. If you are interested in exhibiting with us, trade stand application forms can be downloaded from our website.

Please do take a look at our show highlights video which encapsulates what a fun family day out the show is, with something for everyone, including your dog!

2023 Advance discounted tickets are available to buy online at https:// ukgamefair.co.uk/ or by calling the ticket hotline number 01263 735 828

Adult £19, Children (5 - 16 years) £7.50 and Family (2 Adults and 2 Children) £50. The discounted ticket offer is valid until midday on the 17th April 2023. After this time tickets are available to buy on the gate at the 2023 on-the-day rates. A small booking fee applies to phone orders. Under 5’s are free and Car Parking is free for all. VIP Memberships and Camping weekend tickets also available at discounted rates if booked in advance. Visit our website for more information: https://ukgamefair.co.uk/

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We are currently recruiting in the below sectors: SCAN HERE FOR THETFORD JOBS

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Baxter is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer

If you need assistance or have any further enquiries please contact saffron williams@baxter com Where your purpose accelerates our mission

Photo In

For the first show photographic this year’s Breckland sure they government have an accepted ID include or Commonwealth and some an older person’s Voters will recognisable

Photo ID Will Be Needed To Vote In May’s Local Elections

For the first time, residents in England will need to show photographic ID at polling stations to vote at this year’s local elections.

Breckland Council is urging residents to make sure they are ready to vote in the upcoming local government elections in May by checking they have an accepted form of ID. Accepted forms of include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Anyone who forms of ID completing www.voter-authority-certificate.

Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID by completing a paper form or online at: www.voter-authority-certificate. service.gov.uk/

The full list Electoral Commission’s information of how to apply www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID

The full list of accepted ID is available on the Electoral Commission’s website, along with more information about the new requirement and details of how to apply for the free ID, at: www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID

Ailsa Irvine, and Guidance, station in photo ID paper. It’s what types for free ID about the the polling website.”

Ailsa Irvine, Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance, said: “Anyone voting at a polling station in England this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper. It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it. You can find information about the new requirement and what to expect at the polling station on the Electoral Commission’s website.”

Maxine O’Mahony, Council said: Breckland those who HARDCORE,

Maxine O’Mahony, Returning Officer at Breckland Council said: “With elections taking place in Breckland on 4th May 2023, it is important that those who want to vote make sure they have

an accepted form of ID. It may seem early but checking now means you will be ready to vote”.

If you need any help with applying for the free ID or want to request an application form, contact the Electoral Services team on 01362 656870 via e-mail: elections@breckland.gov.uk

Anyone who wants to have their say in the elections this May must also be registered to vote. Voters wishing to apply to their council for free ID should first make sure they are registered to vote.

If you haven’t previously registered, it only takes five minutes to register online at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station, is a new requirement, introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act which was passed last year and comes into effect this May.

Thetford

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PATIOS & DRIVEWAYS

Our NEW workshops can’t wait February. up so Events

Our NEW Hanging by a Thread wellbeing workshops are proving very popular and we can’t wait to deliver the first ones on the 15 February. Limited spaces are being snapped up so grab them while you can.

Events

Shoestring Snow 18 February 3’s go George his 80th February music Project loved The Traveling The incredible Saturday Join Honington song on TV comedy influences Friends Thetford Thetford The QR

Shoestring Theatre present their panto Snow White on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 February Tickets £6 - £8 with under 3’s go FREE.

George Harrison would have celebrated his 80th birthday on Saturday 25 February and the UK’s leading live music tribute, The George Harrison Project will be performing his best loved hits from The Beatles, his solo career and The Traveling Wilburys. An absolute treat of an event at £15. The incredible The ELO Encounter return to Thetford on Saturday 4 March with their brilliant show - don’t miss it!

Join Honington Military Wives Choir with an afternoon of song on Sunday 26 March, tickets £5/£7.50.

TV comedy legend Jeffrey Holland shares his memories, influences and favourites in Jeffrey Holland: Comedy Friends and Heroes on Friday 12 May tickets £15. Thetford Calendar

Thetford 2023 Calendars are now half price at just £3.50.

The QR code below takes you to all events on our box office.

Thetford

With the come back followed garden looks The team been busy year’s event. garden owners an interest to sign up with an appreciative Nicholas Hospice

Thetford Open Gardens Returns

With the arrival of February, gardens begin to come back to life – snowdrops appear closely followed by daffodils and everything in the garden looks greener after the winter weather. The team behind Thetford Open Gardens have been busy behind the scenes preparing for this year’s event. Emails have gone out to previous garden owners and those who have expressed an interest in opening this year. There’s still time to sign up if you’d like to share your garden with an appreciative audience and support St Nicholas Hospice Care at the same time.

“We would gardens this old favourites the past couple available, new gardens lead organiser need a show your outside admired by ambassadors and there’s it. The event costs for welcoming

“We would love to have twenty-five to thirty gardens this year, sadly several of our old favourites have changed hands over the past couple of years and are no longer available, so we are desperate to welcome new gardens to the event for 2023” explained lead organiser Karen-Emma White. “You don’t need a show garden, it’s about how you use your outside space and gardens of all sizes are admired by our visitors.” The team of garden ambassadors will guide you through the process and there’s support for garden owners if you need it. The event is insured so there’s no additional costs for welcoming people into your space.

Above: Sue (C) with last year’s cakes

Left: One of the gardens from 2022

Every year Sue bakes over fifty cakes and to cover the cost the TOG team are looking for sponsors again. As with every element of the Thetford Open Gardens fundraising, all the proceeds from the cake sale goes to St Nicholas Care. If you would like to help with the cost of ingredients please get in touch by emailing: thetfordopengardens@gmail.com Or, calling 07884431391

Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

Wondering around the need of better here to help, Usually, superfast a cabinet neighbours difficult to However, is its full-fibre fibre from home. This reliable connection; with their neighbours.

Bigging Upp Community

Wondering what all the blue Upp vans are doing around the streets of Thetford? Well, if you’re in need of better broadband service, Upp’s team are here to help, offering a superior, reliable alternative. Usually, superfast broadband is provided to a cabinet on the street, and then shared with neighbours before reaching the home, making it difficult to get a strong connection at peak times. However, what makes Upp’s broadband superior is its full-fibre connection, which takes an optical fibre from its network and runs it directly to the home. This gives customers a faster and more reliable connection; one they don’t have to share with their neighbours.

Upp began Thetford earlier local organisations who Upp partnered tournament along free attended Thetford the event, chance to as they waited

Upp began rolling out its full-fibre network in Thetford earlier this year, alongside working with local organisations such as Thetford Town FC, who Upp partnered with for their summer 9-aside tournament in 2022, where they even brought along free icecream! The broadband provider also attended Thetford Forest Live, proudly sponsoring the event, and providing festival goers with the chance to play Upp’s exciting light reaction game as they waited for the main act each evening.

As well as local sports the Thetford of community Nicholas Hospice event draws and is very of people its second with Thetford deckchairs at the event. to boost more beyond its and support

As well as getting stuck into events and supporting local sports teams, Upp is also a key sponsor of the Thetford Open Gardens, a much-loved series of community events which raise money for St Nicholas Hospice every year in June. The main event draws in people from across East Anglia and is very popular in Thetford, with hundreds of people enjoying the gardens. In June 2023, second year of a three-year sponsorship deal with Thetford Open Gardens, Upp’s giant branded deckchairs will be featured in one of the gardens at the event. It’s clear that Upp broadband aims to boost more than just broadband speeds, going beyond its remit to engage with the community and support local events and organisations.

Upp broadband is committed to make sure levelling up becomes a reality for the residents of Thetford. With remote working on the rise, Upp’s high broadband speeds couldn’t come at a better time for underserved rural areas in the East of England. So for fast, frustration-free broadband to your home, things are looking Upp.

To find out more about Upp’s unique broadband services, and to see if it’s available on your street, go to their website at: www.upp.com You can also check them out on Instagram @getonupp

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hire

Ice creams galore at Thetford Town’s 9-a-side tournament last summer

January 10th

Thetford club who provided

Thetford Inner Wheel

January 10th was Inner Wheel’s 99th birthday. Thetford club joined with Watton Inner Wheel Club who provided a delicious afternoon tea.

The speaker Dogs for the wonderful took us through care and retirement performed the doorbell reward of which relies lifeline for Thetford

The speaker was Veronica Colley from Hearing Dogs for the Deaf (pictured left above) with her wonderful spaniel dog Logan. Her informative talk took us through the training for the dogs, their care and retirement life. Logan was a delight who performed his tasks such as warning Veronica of the doorbell or a smoke alarm just for the small reward of a kibble or piece of carrot. The charity which relies just on donations can prove to be a lifeline for a deaf person.

Marian de Bass, Inner Wheel Correspondent

Thetford Cancer Support Hub

The Thetford at the Charles They are available - 2pm. If you need support, support team friendly environment. You can also you prefer 7640 or e-mail:

The Thetford Cancer Support Hub is now located at the Charles Burrell Centre on Staniforth Road. They are available every Thursday between 9am - 2pm. If you have been affected by cancer and need support, drop in for a chat with the Big C’s support team in a warm, non-judgemental and friendly environment.

You can also book an appointment in advance if you prefer by calling the Support Line on 0800 092 support@big-c.co.uk

You can also book an appointment in advance if you prefer by calling the Support Line on 0800 092 7640 or e-mail: support@big-c.co.uk

You can also you prefer Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 14

Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 14 JOHN OLIVERS HAIRDESSING GROUP Tel: 01842 763145

Thetford u3a after cessation gatherings.

to the existing groups getting and Snooker. There was our Christmas speaker of presented Chanters

A Bright New Year For U3a

Thetford u3a group activities have now returned after cessation of all the Christmas festive gatherings. How quickly they come and go! Added to the existing groups we have three new start up groups getting underway – Art For Fun, Bridge and Snooker.

There was no speaker for December as we had our Christmas party. Last month we had our first speaker of 2023 which was Horry Parsons. Horry presented part two of his talk on the Bury Tower.

Thetford Probus

The final meeting of 2022, in December, saw Vice Chairman Mike Brindle take charge of proceedings in the absence of Chairman Bill de Bass.The booked speaker called off at the last moment due to illness so Mike stepped into the breach once again. While teaching at Littleport in 1981, a girl student gave him a hand-written manuscript which told the story of her grandfather, Michael Paul, who had been born in Romania in 1919. It told how he grew up in Romania and worked mainly in farming, served in the Romanian Army during WW2 and was brought to UK in 1945 as a POW. On release, lived in Elie before moving to Littleport where, by coincidence, he met up with an exgirlfriend from Romania. They married and settled in the area. It was a very interesting story. Later in December, club members along with spouses and friends enjoyed Christmas Lunch at Edmunds Restaurant at West Suffolk College in Bury St Edmunds. The students provided delicious meals and excellent service and deserved much praise.

The deadline for the March edition is 15th February. For advertising enquiries please contact Karen-Emma White on karen@aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk

This coming Jigge. This format with musical insight bygone times. fourth Thursday starting at Date for your March 2023, fancy finding would like please contact on 01842 761506.

This coming month we look forward to Chanters Jigge. This will be a move away from our normal format with Chanters Jigge providing us with a musical insight into folk music of the British Isles in bygone times. As always the talks take place every fourth Thursday of the month at the Carnegie, starting at 2pm and last about an hour.

Date for your diary: Thetford u3a Open Day: 30th March 2023, at the Carnegie, 12 noon. If you fancy finding out more about u3a Thetford, or would like further details about any of the above please contact Lesley on 01842 824074 or Anne on 01842 761506.

Chanters Jigge who will be performing for Thetford u3a in February

Services

Books on to books is help make But for those pleasure of the RVS Books libraries to for whatever Based on audio books, delivered to Home Library more than face making mobility and also provide well-being would like that would System at added to a Libraries All forty-seven warm, and Libraries across and provide

Services At Thetford Library

Books on Wheels service: Reading and listening to books is enjoyable for many people – they can help make people feel less isolated and lonely too. But for those unable to get to their local library, the pleasure of reading is easily lost. Volunteers from the RVS Books on Wheels service work with local libraries to select reading materials for clients that, for whatever reason, can’t get to their local library. Based on client’s tastes and preferences, books, audio books, and sometimes films and music are delivered to clients in person.

Home Library Service volunteers deliver so much more than books – they are a friendly, familiar face making a regular home visit to people whose mobility and social interaction are limited. They also provide a useful check on the safety and well-being of people living in the community. If you would like to use this service, or know someone that would benefit, email the Norfolk Library System at libraries@norfolk.gov.uk to ask to be added to a local delivery route.

Libraries offer warm and welcoming spaces: All forty-seven of Norfolk’s libraries are free, warm, and welcoming spaces in the community. Libraries across Norfolk remain open to everyone and provide a space for people to sit in comfort

and access a variety of services. These include reading, doing a jigsaw, playing a board game, or joining in Just a Cuppa or other activities. Other free services available at Norfolk libraries include:

* Hot drinks available during staffed hours

* A variety of bags of essentials for free, with no questions asked – check what’s available at your local library

* Library staff and volunteers can provide visitors with trusted information about other support available

For more information, go to: www.norfolk.gov.uk/ libraries-local-history-and-archives/libraries

Players

Players Panto Success

Thetford Players were at thier finest and gave everyone just what they needed at this time of year - lots and lots of laughs during a couple of hours of fantastic entertainment. Of course we loved the mention of About Thetford! Puss In Boots was written and directed by Thetford sisters, Maddie Stebbings and Frankie Soan, who also took on the musical director roles. Speaking about the panto, Maddie said, “I’m so proud of everyone, everyone came together really well.” Frankie followed on, “When I heard people laugh the first time, I thought yes!” The sisters spent months working on the script, which flowed perfectly. All the traditional elements of a first-class panto were included along with more inclusive references bringing the Puss In Boots story up to date. The live band was a welcome return after a three year break due to the pandemic, providing the perfect soundtrack to enhance the script.

The show kicked off to a cracking start with Fairy Fuchsia played by Laura Williams. Having signed up for panto without ever seeing one, American Will O’Donnell stole the show as the Ogre along with panto favourite, Phil Pearson as his side kick Magnus. As ever Phil had everyone in stitches and this year was his finest hour! Adam Bond returned as the flamboyant Dame Betty Boot, and had the audience chortling with his adlibbing involving the audience members. Adam knows just how to pull off the perfect Dame. Also returning was Stuart Wright as the Herald and for his third pantomime but first leading role, James Trayton as Puss. James gave a superb, nuanced performance of the perfect feline hero of the story. Liz Staight as Tom, Martin Godfrey as Dick and Charlie Wilson, (in her first principal boy role) as Harry kept the story rolling, providing plenty of laughs throughout the performance.

Making her debut as a principal this year was Chloe Preston as Princess Penelope, who played the perfect princess, and sang beautifully. Chloe has been in every panto since the age of five and made the transition from ensemble seamlessly. David Williams played the outrageous camp King (our money is on him becoming a Dame at some point) alongside his wife Maggie, who played the Queen, raising the laughs especially in their pjs. New junior members, Liam O’Donnell, Dolcie Dean, Isabella Pervis and Hazel Burt joined the more experienced ensemble of Charley Holt, Isla Rouke, Thomas Smith, Bethany Bell, Rose Ash and Kat Hopkins, all of whom played essential supporting roles to the main cast.

Above:

Harry

Left: There is nothing like an Adam Bond Dame!

Images:© Pat Mitchell/Thetford Players

Executive producer, Jo Cooper said, “Having this show written and put together by two young members of Thetford Players is amazing. It just goes to show how far we’ve come and I’m really happy the opening night was so well received.”

None of the on-stage success can happen without a fantastic backstage crew. This years team deserve a mention for their flawless scene changes, props, sound and lighting along with the welcoming FOH team who had everyone to their seats in time for curtain up. Thetford Players have regularly received NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association) nominations for their pantos, and Puss In Boots certainly deserves to be in the running for this year.

The next performance by Thetford Players is Blue Remembered Hills followed by a showcase on Saturday 29th July. Information evening: 8th February. For more information call 07512474700 or email: thetfordplayers1@gmail.com

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Rouke, Thomas Smith, Bethany Bell, Rose Ash and Kat Hopkins, all of whom played essential supporting roles to the main cast. Norfolk. IP24 2AP

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Thetford Players everyone just - lots and of fantastic mention of written and Stebbings the musical panto, Maddie everyone followed on, time, I thought working on the traditional included along bringing the live band was break due soundtrack The show Fuchsia played up for panto Will O’Donnell with panto Magnus. As this year was as the flamboyant audience chortling audience members. off the perfect Wright as but first leading James gave the perfect Tom, Martin (in her first story rolling, the performance. Making her Chloe Preston the perfect has been in made the David Williams (our money point) alongside Queen, raising New junior Dean, Isabella more experienced Rouke, Thomas and Kat Hopkins, supporting more experienced Rouke, Thomas and Kat Hopkins, supporting Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 17

Therapies: 07775 535 617

Some of the Puss In Boots cast. James Trayton as Puss (C) Will O’Donnell as the Ogre behing him, Chloe Preston as Princess Penelope and Charlie Wilson as

A group of to provide due to significant just confirmed The group surgery in to Foodbank as the cost demand those into 2023 between 5pm Centre on No appointment attending necessarily surgery coincides provided by Councillor attending year. We have including of housing issues On many occasions ear and MCP HP

Councillors Confirm New Surgery Dates

A group of Councillors in Thetford are continuing to provide a fortnightly surgery for local residents due to significant demand last year and they have just confirmed their dates for Winter / Spring 2023.

The group of Councillors trialled the fortnightly surgery in 2022 to help local residents with access to Foodbank referrals and other forms of support as the cost of living crisis began to bite. Due to demand those surgeries have been continued into 2023 and take place every other Tuesday between 5pm and 7pm at the Charles Burrell Centre on Staniforth Road, Thetford.

No appointment is necessary and the Councillors attending help anyone from across Thetford, not necessarily just the wards that they represent. The surgery coincides with a free two course dinner provided by the Charles Burrell Centre.

Councillor Chris Harvey said: “Due to the numbers attending we have continued our surgeries this year. We have dealt with a whole range of issues including of course the cost of living crisis, plus housing issues and anti social behaviours reports. On many occasions we simply provide a listening ear and invite people to share with us their

thoughts on local issues. The surgeries work particularly well as we run them in tandem with the free dinner. People can of course still get in touch with us directly at any time but we find many people like the option to speak to us face to face as well at the surgeries so we’re pleased to be able to continue them this year”.

The dates for 2023 that have been confirmed are 7th & 21st February, 7th & 21st March and 4th & 18th April. Regular community litter picks also take place on the second and fourth Saturday or each month. Contact 07742157967 for more info.

Councillor Terry Land at one of the surgery sessions

It is now eight leased from as a community a thriving community of provision all who have hirer, visitor, be what it energy, imagination, community. joining us. on our Facebook coming and Community events every in the Engine and there be in the friends. For activities –the adults that the New affordable 4pm - 8pm Those who that Citizen’s Barclays (Tuesday) are proving You can either where there Joining the is the Big welcome you between 9am We are also started PitStop 2pm and 4pm. and

CBC Looks Ahead To Eigth Year

It is now eight years since the former school was leased from Norfolk County Council and opened as a community centre. The Centre has become a thriving hub for business, learning, clubs and community support. The richness and diversity of provision and activity is amazing. Thank you who have been involved as tenant, sessional hirer, visitor, staff and volunteer. It would not be what it is now without passion, enthusiasm, energy, imagination, belief and heart for the community. And in 2023 more organisations are joining us. We try and capture what is on offer on our Facebook page but there is nothing like coming and seeing for yourself.

Community Dinners are back. We hold these events every Tuesday between 5pm and 6.30pm in the Engine Room. They are free to everyone and there is no need to book. It is a chance to be in the warm with friends and potentially new friends. For the children there will be some activities – although I have noticed that many of the adults enjoy them as well. And do not forget that the New U clothing shop which provide very affordable pre loved clothing is open between 4pm - 8pm on a Tuesday.

Those who read this column monthly will know that Citizen’s Advice Bureau (Thursday) and Barclays (Tuesday) have weekly pop ups. These are proving very popular and busy for the teams. You can either pop in to the Engine Room Café where there are located or make an appointment. Joining the Citizen’s Advice Bureau on Thursdays is the Big C Support Team who would like to welcome you in a warm and friendly environment between 9am and 1pm.

We are also delighted to welcome Menscraft who started PitStop sessions on Thursdays between 2pm and 4pm. This is support for men’s wellbeing and offers the opportunity to meet together and

engage in new and old activities from board games to creative arts or indeed whatever is of interest –perhaps with the right skills we may have our own Repair Shop! No need to book just turn up.

The Burrell Training Kitchen has been running a number of different courses over the last year and Tracy is always keen to hear from anyone who has an idea for a course or drop in session. The next new programme is Community Cookery Classes which is a collaboration between West Suffolk College and the Burrell Training Kitchen. If you are interested then email thetford@wsc. ac.uk or call 01842 760150 and drop into the Centre to find out more about time and date of classes to book your free place.

The Burrell Shop continues to be very busy. We have expanded our frozen range and will continue to do so over the coming months. We try and respond to what people ask for although we are not always able to source things at a price which we feel meets the ethos of the Shop. We are always looking for new partners who can help and support the Shop. We have recently been kindly supported by Banham Poultry, Norse, Bluecross and others. Thank you to them all.

Nik Chapman, Chief Executive, CBC Ltd Website: www.charlesburrellcentre.org.uk

Lions

Thetford

The local Lions help from £150 from which was will be used Christmas who will Watton and The Lions groceries, the foodbank the Christmas Lions Club be able to much needed be helping Attleborough £500 at the on fair earlier tombola, lucky hamper.

Lions Clubs International Serving Thetford

and Attleborough

The local Lions Club have managed, with the kind help from the Black Horse in Thetford, to raise £150 from the raffle for the Christmas Hamper which was drawn before Christmas. This money will be used plus a further £150 to purchase Christmas food goodies for Thetford Foodbank, who will distribute to families in the Thetford, Watton and Attleborough area.

The Lions Club delivered the £300 of Christmas groceries, to the foodbank in Croxton Road, which the foodbank required, in time to be included in the Christmas food parcels. The President of the Lions Club Harry Cowie said, "I was pleased to be able to help the Thetford Foodbank with the much needed provisions which would, in turn, be helping the people of Thetford, Watton and Attleborough at Christmas". The club also raised £500 at the Attleborough Christmas Light switch on fair earlier in December, by holding a chocolate tombola, lucky cards and a raffle for another food hamper.

www.facebook.com/AttleboroughLions

One of our has been knitting tiny premature Addenbrookes amber, green which they collection has also continued Specsavers. like to receive your prescriptions contact us If you feel communities, to see some further information. www.facebook.com/AttleboroughLions communities, to see some further information.

One of our members has been very busy knitting tiny hats for premature babies at Addenbrookes in red, amber, green and white which they requested. The collection of used spectacles has also continued with the collection points at Specsavers. If you know of anyone who would like to receive a Lions Message in a bottle to hold your prescriptions and details of next of kin please contact us on our Facebook page.

If you feel you have time to help your local communities, please look at our Facebook page to see some of our projects and contact us for further information.

Please mention the About Thetford Magazine 20 communities, please look at our Facebook page to see some of our projects and contact us for further information.

www.facebook.com/AttleboroughLions

www.facebook.com/AttleboroughLions

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Protecting

Did you know infested with them, intestinal risk to your understand pick up roundworms and by swallowing Cats pick up soil and rodents. Adult roundworm to go undetected, that over infested with People become accidentally environment. as they prefer this poses Roundworms their eyes, risk factor Children are worm eggs Cats pick grooming by eating at much greater tapeworms, condition. can also lead behaviours, with their shown that their owners your pet outdoor activities and vegetables sandpits when vegetables

Protecting Against Worms

Did you know that cats may show no signs of being infested with worms? Although you might not see them, intestinal worms can be a serious health risk to your cat and your family, so it's important to understand how to protect against them. Kittens pick up roundworms from their mother's milk and by swallowing eggs from the environment. Cats pick up roundworm eggs from contaminated soil and by eating infected hosts, such as rodents. Adult cats often don't show any signs of roundworm infestation, so its easy for the problem to go undetected, yet a recent study has shown that over one in four cats that go outside are infested with roundworms.

People become infected with roundworms by accidentally swallowing tiny worm eggs from the environment. Cats pass eggs in their faeces and as they prefer to go to the toilet in soil or sandpits, this poses a risk to children playing in these areas. Roundworms in people can cause damage to their eyes, lungs and heart. They can also be a risk factor in eczema and cognitive dysfunction. Children are especially at risk as they play where worm eggs maybe present.

Cats pick up tapeworm by swallowing fleas when grooming themselves. Tapeworms are picked up by eating rodents or birds, so cats who hunt are at much greater risk. Cats often show no signs of tapeworms, but may lose weight and coat condition. Tapeworm segments around the bottom can also lead to irritation. Due to their size and behaviours, cats often share areas of the home with their owners. Indeed a recent survey has shown that 53% of cats sleep on the beds of their owners or their owners' children. To protect your pet and family always wash hands after outdoor activities and before eating. Wash fruit and vegetables intended to be eaten raw. Cover sandpits when not in use and if possible cover vegetables in allotments and gardens.

Treat your cat with a product that's effective against worms regularly throughout the year and this is especially important in kittens, cats who regularly hunt or roam, cats in households with young children or someone elderly or with a poor immune system. Always buy your worm treatment from your vet as they have the most up to date products that work.

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

Rita Thompson

Breckland Cats Protection

www.cats.org.uk/breckland

Ear Irrigation liboM e.www girrirae Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 21

elbixelF xaw er MOH edivorP retsiger liboM e.www girrirae

Help

If you’re looking continue the well-being Council’s never too for 2023 however small, lifestyle. Whether healthier diet, up smoking, consider making We all also far, especially it alone. That website can than 20,000 support from it not only evidence-based science tools why and sticking with identify your you in a position striving for, online tools you make One Ready says, “I haven’t reading the I should be was very surprised. that I now day so I’m and have after that and keep exercise into at the far

Help To Keep You On Track

If you’re looking for motivation to kick-start or continue the new year with better health and well-being then look no further than Norfolk County Council’s Ready to Change online platform. It’s never too late to act upon those new resolutions for 2023 and make the necessary decisions, however small, leading to a fitter and more active lifestyle. Whether you want to lose weight, eat a healthier diet, be more active, drink less, or give up smoking, the New Year is an excellent time to consider making positive changes.

We all also know that will power can only get us so far, especially if we set unrealistic goals or try to go it alone. That is where the free Ready to Change website can help. It has been accessed by more than 20,000 people already, it was designed with support from health and behavioural experts, so it not only provides straightforward, practical, evidence-based advice, it also uses behavioural science tools to help users understand the ‘what, why and how’ when it comes to making and sticking with more positive choices. It helps you identify your goals and create action plans to put you in a position to make the changes you are striving for, but goes one step further, offering online tools based on behavioural science to help you make changes that will make a difference.

One Ready to Change user, who is 26 years old, says, “I haven’t made huge progress but after reading the information about how much exercise I should be doing and advice on eating habits, I was very surprised. So, I have tried to make sure that I now do at least 15-20 minutes exercise a day so I’m at least closer to where I should be and have changed a few of the things I eat. Even after that small adjustment, I have more energy and keep finding little ways to try to incorporate exercise into daily activities. I have been parking at the far end of the car park when I go into the

office, and I’ve also started taking the shopping bags straight to the car instead of using a trolley.”

Check it out online, choose what you’d like to improve, take the Health Quiz, and it will guide you through your goal setting and action plan. It includes tips on what to do if you miss a daily target. To find out the extensive range of topics covered go to: www.norfolk.gov.uk/readytochange

Resident doctor on ITV’s GMTV, GP Dr Hilary Jones, said, “Making changes to your health habits is never easy and taking that first step can be daunting, which is why the Ready to Change online tool is so useful. I’d encourage you to think of the end goal and how much better you’ll feel when you get there. Ready to Change offers tips and advice on how to set a realistic target and what to do if you don’t get there straight away. It’s a really practical approach to health improvement - even small changes such as stopping your Friday night drinking, or cutting out that afternoon snack can really make a difference to your overall health. Why don’t you set your personal health target today and give Ready to Change a go? It’s one of the best free practical health improvement tools I’ve seen.”

www.norfolk.gov.uk/care-support-and-health/ health-and-wellbeing/adults-health/ ready-to-change

Mulberrythe

WWW.MULBERRYTHETFORD.CO.UK

Norfolk New Website

Norfolk Trusted scheme from a new and an easy consumers

Norfolk Trusted Trader Launches New Website To Boost Consumer Confidence

Norfolk Trusted Trader, the only approved trader scheme from Norfolk County Council, is launching a new and improved website which will provide an easy and accessible experience to both consumers and traders.

Using a Norfolk peace of home improvements Trader scheme sectors such sales and This is an many new scheme members,

Using a Norfolk Trusted Trader gives consumers peace of mind. Already well known for trusted home improvements traders, the Norfolk Trusted Trader scheme boasts many traders in other sectors such as computer services, car and van sales and cleaners – to name just some.

This is an exciting development which will provide many new opportunities to both consumers and scheme members, such as:

• A dedicated businesses

• A dedicated support line for consumers and businesses

• The ability directly

• The ability for consumers to leave reviews directly on the site

• Businesses videos of

• Businesses will be able to upload photos and videos of work to boost their profile page

• An online able to assistance

• An online portal for scheme members to be able to request Trusted Trader support and assistance

• Continued Resolution

• Continued free access to an Alternative Dispute Resolution scheme

This development ongoing work and follows of our online a result, Norfolk Trusted Directory from December currently host local authority we are confident service for Councillor for Communities scheme has and has confidence assured that been rigorously confidence Other services deliver on

This development has come about as part of ongoing work to maintain and develop the scheme and follows a tender process for improved delivery of our online directory and feedback service. As a result, Norfolk County Council have appointed Trusted Directory Services Ltd, who took over from December 2022. Trusted Directory Services currently host and support a number of different local authority Trusted Trader schemes and we are confident they will deliver a high level of service for Norfolk Trusted Trader.

Councillor Margaret Dewsbury, Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, said, “The scheme has been running for over twelve years and has helped many consumers have more confidence in a variety of traders. They can rest assured that all the businesses on the site have been rigorously vetted so you can choose with confidence to avoid rogue traders.”

Other services that Trusted Directory Services will deliver on behalf of Norfolk Trusted Trader are:

• Processing

• Processing new membership applications

• Complaint management

• Audit services for new application and feedback

Consumers and current members of the scheme don’t need to do anything, and if you’d like to join the Norfolk Trusted Trader scheme, or want to find out more, please visit the website: www.norfolk.gov.uk/trustedtrader Traders who join the scheme before the end of February 2023 will enjoy 50% off their first year of membership.

The deadline for inclusion in the March edition is 15th February. Please send your contribution to: aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com

Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 27

• Managing your renewal of Trusted Trader memberships

• Managing memberships

• Processing

• Managing memberships deliver on

• Processing new membership applications

Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 27

deliver on behalf of Norfolk Trusted Trader are:

• Managing your renewal of Trusted Trader memberships Visit our Facebook page to see some of our recent projects

DIY MASTERS THETFORD

‘Terning Bird flu has UK since the The disease landed with and breadth Island on the or perhaps to have been of the British the sixty-one Thetford to Jonny Rankin. in just two BTO research Nick and Jonny £20,000 to dove, the UK’s not on a sponsored trip, the two an important tern. Sadly, chicks were of corpses sponsored do just that: internationally threatened BTO’s director to parliament’s Affairs committee Pearce-Higgins bird flu’s impact year to the some UK devastating intensification from

The Tide’ On Bird Flu

Bird flu has struck sixty-one species of bird in the UK since the current outbreak began back in 2021. The disease hit the headlines last summer when it landed with a bang at seabird colonies the length and breadth of Britain, including at Scolt Head Island on the north Norfolk coast, where hundreds or perhaps even thousands of birds are thought to have been wiped out. This month, Nick Moran of the British Trust for Ornithology will be walking the sixty-one miles from BTO headquarters in Thetford to Scolt alongside friend and fellow birder Jonny Rankin. The pair will cover the distance in just two days, raising money to help fund vital BTO research into the impacts of bird flu.

Nick and Jonny have previously raised more than £20,000 to help fund work to protect the turtle dove, the UK’s fastest declining bird. When they’re not on a sponsored walk, run, bike ride or kayak trip, the two are regular visitors to Scolt Head, an important breeding site for several species of tern. Sadly, more than three quarters of last year’s chicks were killed by bird flu, with bag after bag of corpses removed by the island’s warden. Their sponsored walk – titled ‘Tern the Tide’ – hopes to do just that: to change the fortunes of Norfolk’s internationally important but sadly increasingly threatened seabirds.

Only by surveying seabird colonies later this year, once the remaining birds have returned to breed, will the true scale of loss for those species be known. For other types of bird, the story may just be beginning.

Head to www.justgiving.com/page/ternthetide to sponsor Nick and Jonny and find out more about their challenge.

Safe Gas 1/4th Advert_Layout 1 08/12/2016

The deadline for advertising in, or contributing to the March 2023 edition of About Thetford magazine is 15th February. Please send your text / artwork to: aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com

Betts of

BTO’s director of science explained the situation to parliament’s Environment, Food and Rural Affairs committee in December. Professor James Pearce-Higgins compared the speed and scale of bird flu’s impact on breeding seabirds earlier this year to the way pesticide use in the 1950s pushed some UK raptors close to extinction, and the devastating effect on farmland birds of agricultural intensification in the 1970s and 1980s. While data from bird ringing and other BTO-led long-term monitoring schemes have helped scientists to establish the scale of the outbreak, the true impact of bird flu remains unknown.

Licensed Gas Engineer

Nick Moran (left) and Jonny Rankin

Project Improving

In April, 2017, CIC (THIS) in Thetford Tim Melvin plan was to citizens as and to grow vegetables they carried Burrell Centre Alongside garden maintenance as well as private gardens. pandemic the restaurants stopped growing Instead, applied for garden renovations affected This included were isolating, people, disabled struggling difficulties particularly doctors, nurses, was wholly able to provide was so successful, ‘social gardens’ help people themselves, 144 customers their garden Meanwhile, and private

Project Celebrates Five Years Of Improving Life Chances

In April, 2017, The Horticulture Industry Scheme CIC (THIS) opened at the Charles Burrell Centre in Thetford as a not-for-profit social enterprise with Tim Melvin and Georgina Keatley at the helm. The plan was to employ former offenders, or returning citizens as they are now frequently referred to and to grow unusual salad leaves, herbs and vegetables to sell to restaurants. For three years, they carried out this plan, both at the Charles Burrell Centre and at the Thetford Garden Centre. Alongside this THIS undertook some grounds/ garden maintenance work for local businesses, as well as maintaining a few private gardens. In 2020, the pandemic struck and with the restaurants closed, THIS stopped growing produce.

Instead, THIS successfully applied for funding to undertake garden renovations for people affected by the pandemic. This included people who were isolating, such as older people, disabled people, those struggling with mental health difficulties and key workers, particularly medical staff –doctors, nurses, ambulance drivers. This service was wholly funded by organisations so they were able to provide it free of charge. The scheme was so successful, that it developed into a new ‘social gardens’ service, and THIS continue to help people who struggle to manage their gardens themselves, most often due to mobility issues. 144 customers have so far benefitted from having their garden renovated free of charge.

Meanwhile, THIS continues to do commercial and private gardening work and their list of

Left: Participants working on a social garden

customers has grown and includes some large, local businesses. All of the workforce are offered support in the areas that they may be struggling with, whether that be housing, with benefits, obtaining ID, opening bank accounts, registering with a doctor, attending medical appointments, with referrals to substance misuse or counselling agencies, and so on. THIS started by working with those who have had contact with criminal justice services but now also work with people who have experienced homelessness and have other complex needs.

To date THIS have worked with sixty two participants. Of these, thirty four are either working for THIS or have gone on to work for other employers. Sixteen remained with THIS after their four-month contracts for anything up to two years. Twenty five left THIS to move into employment elsewhere for work in the following sectors: horticulture, construction, engineering, logistics, removals, warehousing, retailing, manufacturing, hospitality, farming and hairdressing. Two participants have become self employed. Those thirty four have remained in touch with the project.

when responding to advertisements 30

THIS has not been formally researched, but Thetford is a small town and Georgina and Tim say that they always hear news of our former participants, and as far as they are aware, only two former participants have gone back to prison

Thetford is a small town and Georgina and Tim say that they always hear news of our former participants, and as far as they are aware, only two former participants have gone back to prison

Above: THIS founders, Tim Melvin and Georgina Keatley

for new offences. been serving Norwich who returned to Georgina social garden to maintain successfully In other cases, rates to help garden owners and have taking heavy Keeping people criminal justice deal of money costs. Meanwhile year is approximately from the significant brings, their of society. They earn partners or work that Gardening and the team

for new offences. “Three of our participants have been serving prisoners at HMPs Wayland and Norwich who worked for us during the day and returned to prison at night”.

Georgina and Tim realised that in some cases social garden owners were not going to be able to maintain the garden after their first visit so they successfully sourced funding for free return visits. In other cases, THIS return regularly at reduced rates to help maintain the garden. Several social garden owners have become firm friends of THIS and have been given other help to them such as taking heavy items from their houses to landfill.

Keeping people in the offending cycle within the criminal justice system costs the tax payer a great deal of money in conviction costs and prison costs. Meanwhile the cost of running THIS for a year is approximately £108,000 per annum. Apart from the significant financial savings that THIS brings, their workforce are contributing members of society.

They earn money that they usually share with their partners or parents, and they are doing gardening work that improves the look of the environment. Gardening has positive benefits for mental health, and the team are doing work that benefits

Breckland Manfacturers

Based in Summer sizes, styles

A finished garden after a THIS visit and being worked on during the project

others. Georgina and Tim are proud that their workforce are living useful lives and are contributing members of society.

For more information please visit: www.this.org.uk or email: georgina.keatley@this.org.uk

Thetford Garden & Allotment Club Garden Notes For February 2023

February may can still seem bitter and we can have let’s hope making an flower and Several local including Chippenham Spring primroses can be purchased up any winter our to the garden or straggly now damaged and the plants fertiliser forked fruit growth

February may be the shortest month but Spring can still seem a long way off! The weather can be bitter and we often experience snowfall, however we can have some mild days with sunshine so let’s hope for the best. I love to see snowdrops making an appearance, they seem such a ‘gentle’ flower and it’s cheering to see them in large drifts. Several local gardens have splendid displays including Anglesey Abbey, Oxburgh Hall and Chippenham Park.

If you’re thinking soil can be or some clear weighted uncertainty

Spring primroses and small pots of flowering bulbs can be purchased from garden centres to freshen up any winter containers bringing a splash of colour to the garden. If you grow strawberries in your garden or on your allotment they can look very straggly now but if the weather is reasonable any damaged or dead leaves can be trimmed away and the plants will benefit from have a potash rich fertiliser forked in, this will boost the flower and fruit growth and give larger yields of delicious fruit. If you’re thinking of trying some early sowings, the soil can be pre-warmed by covering with cloches or some clear polythene laid over the soil and weighted down with stones. Because of the uncertainty with weather at this time of the year

it’s often better to hold off sowing even hardy vegetables. Any later sowings often make quicker and stronger growth. A cold, dry day is a good chance to tidy the shed, we accumulate bits and pieces through the year and it’s good to go through and clear away unwanted items, give forks, spades and other tools a good clean and you’ll be ready for the new season. Check through your seeds and order any extra now while a good selection are still available.

At the time of preparing this article the future of the Club is still being decided and we have no firm plans at present for a February meeting.

Happy Gardening! Maggie Baldwin

Snowdrops at Lady Gentle Meadow in Thetford

Last month, enough to illustrator to the shop window promoting Children’s the month. are delighted Padmacandra all remember window from Well, not a Klaus Flugge illustrator, her own book full on romping and naturally Books to come to promote Silly. We’ve wait to see

Not Just Books

Last month, we were lucky enough to host talented illustrator Sian James to the shop to paint our window promoting January’s Children’s Indie Book of the month. This month, we are delighted to have back Padmacandra – hopefully you remember her stunning Whale window from two years ago? Well, not only is Padmacandra a Klaus Flugge Prize shortlisted illustrator, she is also releasing her own book in February which is full on romping rhymes and joyful silliness and naturally thought of us here at Not Just Books to come and decorate our window to promote the publication of Don’t Be Silly. We’ve been promised cats so can’t wait to see what’s in store for us!

All this artistic activity got us thinking and we’ve decided to launch Art on The High Street: a year long project giving local (both Sian and Padmacandra are based in East Anglia) illustrators and artists a huge canvas – our shop window. We’re proposing to change the window each month and ask that the design keeps to the themes of books and/ or Thetford. Email Jane on j.james@ notjustbooks.co.uk with an outline of your window design and which month you would like your art to feature. We look forward to working with you and showcasing your work!

archipelago off from the world so that Nguyen can focus on her research. But the stakes are high: the octopuses hold the key to unprecedented breakthroughs in extra-human intelligence and there are vast fortunes to be made by whoever can take advantage of their advancements. And no one has yet asked the octopuses what they think. And what they might do about it.

The Books Are My Bag Children’s Book of the Month for February is Montgomery Bonbon: Murder at the Museum by Alasdair Beckett-King. You might recognise Alasdair’s name from last year’s Comedy Club offerings in town and he’s also a podcaster and filmmaker. This middle grade adventure looks to be great fun and we are looking forward to sharing it with our avid readers.

February’s Indies Fiction Book of the Month is The Mountain in the Sea by Ray Naylor and we love that it’s a science fiction offering. There are creatures in the water of Con Dao. To the locals, they’re monsters. To the corporate owners of the island, an opportunity. To the team of three sent to study them, a revelation. Their minds are unlike ours. When pioneering marine biologist Dr Ha Nguyen is offered the chance to travel to the remote Con Dao Archipelago to investigate a highly intelligent, dangerous octopus species, she doesn’t pause long enough to look at the fine print. DIANIMA- a transnational tech corporation best known for its ground-breaking work in artificial intelligence, has purchased the islands, evacuated their population and sealed the

Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 33

All this artistic and we’ve on The High project giving Padmacandra Anglia) illustrators canvas –proposing each month keeps to or Thetford. notjustbooks.co.uk your window you would look forward showcasing February’s Month is The and we love There are To the locals, owners of of three sent minds are biologist Dr to travel to investigate species, she at the fine corporation work in artificial islands, evacuated at the fine corporation work in artificial islands, evacuated Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 33

at the fine print. DIANIMA- a transnational tech corporation best known for its ground-breaking work in artificial intelligence, has purchased the islands, evacuated their population and sealed the

reading!

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Happy

You could have your design on the window of Not Just Books during 2023 as part of Art On The High Street

Half

On Tuesday and Thetford together to Elizabeth 1578. Come Tudor times, a quill pen, objects and herself! In invited to get dressed Tudor fashions with Rachel this activity you to explore their POP Window Wanderland includes designs at Thetford Also at families will undercover at Ancient national Montgomery Trail, organised Museums. Becoming and one Soundly

Half Term At Ancient House

On Tuesday 14th February Ancient House and Thetford Library are joining together to tell the story of Queen Elizabeth I’s visit to Thetford in 1578. Come along to learn about Tudor times, how to write with a quill pen, handle real Tudor objects and meet the Queen herself! In the afternoon you are invited to see Queen Elizabeth get dressed and learn about Tudor fashions and costume with Rachel Duffield. Linked to this activity Curious Spark invite you to explore Thetford following their POP 1578 ‘Elizabethan’ Window Wanderland Trail. This includes designs from children at Thetford schools.

Also at Ancient House families will be able to go undercover and test their detective skills at Ancient House this half term as part of the national Montgomery Bonbon: Museum Mystery Trail, organised by Walker Books and Kids in Museums. The exciting new trail celebrates the

release of the brilliantly funny new children’s book Montgomery Bonbon: Murder at the Museum written by comedian Alasdair Beckett-King, with illustrations by Claire Powell. Pick up an activity sheet and test out your detective skills, solve puzzles and have fun. Don’t forget to collect a free moustache bookmark to get in the mystery solving mindset too! Families will also have the chance to enter a grand prize draw competition on the Kids in Museums social media @ kidsinmuseums to win a signed copy of Montgomery Bonbon: Murder at the Museum and their very own detective kit.

For more information about events at Ancient House please visit the website: https://www.museums. norfolk.gov.uk/ancient-house/ whats-on

For information about the ‘Elizabethan’ Window Wanderland Trail go to: www.curiousspark.com/ elizabethan-window-wanderland/

Becoming a foster carer is a huge and important decision. It is a step that will change your life and one that can be both exciting and nerve racking, but most of all, personally fulfilling.

website www.soundlyfostering.co.uk and fill out the contact form.

Diamond Trust

Diamond Academy Joins Inspiration Trust Family Of Schools

On 1st January Inspiration

Diamond Academy that caters Year 3 to of Diamond a range of creative arts, values and to the community a result, pupils hardworking key values of reading, of the community Academy (subject children, helping of reading

On 1st January 2023, Diamond Academy joined the Inspiration Trust, becoming their sixteenth school. Diamond Academy is an open primary academy that caters for around two hundred children from Year 3 to Year 6, ages seven to eleven. Pupils of Diamond Academy are encouraged to pursue a range of activities including sports, crafts and creative arts, and are taught to develop a set of values and habits that allow them to contribute to the community in Thetford, and beyond. As a result, pupils learn to be polite, considerate, hardworking and disciplined. One of the school’s key values includes championing the importance of reading, and the school encourages members of the community to volunteer at Diamond Academy (subject to DBS checks) to read with the children, helping them to develop a natural love of reading and support their academic progress.

The school Burrell Centre Terry, the Engine Room, for pupils. school of of Inspiration with its Principal, pupils to Thetford Academy, follow-on curriculum bright futures. Inspiration stepped into Heather is leader who and primary previous roles Primary Academy, Ofsted outcome PC or Got riendlyF Mac or elT

The school values local hubs like the Charles Burrell Centre and currently works with Tracy Terry, the manager of its community cafe, the Engine Room, running Food Technology lessons for pupils. Diamond Academy is the sister school of Thetford Academy, which is also part of Inspiration Trust, and will be working closely with its Principal, Mr Carter on the transition of its pupils to Thetford Academy. Similarly to Thetford Academy, Diamond Academy teaches its pupils a follow-on curriculum that prepares them for their bright futures.

Inspiration Trust’s own Heather Denny has stepped into the role of Principal of the school. Heather is an experienced teacher and senior leader who has previously led both secondary and primary schools in London and Norfolk. Her previous roles include Vice Principal at Norwich Primary Academy, leading the school to a ‘Good’ Ofsted outcome in December 2019. Heather has

also led Art and Design across Inspiration Trust as a Specialist Arts Advisor to the primary and secondary schools, developing a knowledge rich creative curriculum and developing a culture of Arts-rich schools across the trust.

Heather Denny said, “I’m delighted to join Diamond Academy as Principal. Diamond is a wonderful school where pupils, staff and parents value equality, diversity and creativity - qualities that are integral for a happy, fun environment to learn! I passionately believe that education is the key to improving children's futures and that education should be inclusive, always striving to develop happy, well-rounded young people, who are fully prepared to take the next steps”.

In January 2022, Diamond Academy was rated 'Inadequate' by Ofsted. The integration into the Inspiration Trust will inject funding for building works to the schools exterior and interior, as well as evaluate the current curriculum on offer. CEO of Inspiration Trust, Gareth Stevens said: “We share Diamond’s ambition to improve. We understand the importance of supporting the Principal, her team of staff, pupils and their families so that we can work together to build on the improvements Ofsted have picked up on”.

Diamond Academy on Queensway in Thetford

Left: Heather Denny

Mrs Lorraine Headteacher Primary Academy, Education

New Headteacher Joins Bishops CofE Primary Academy School

Mrs Lorraine Ratcliffe has been appointed as Headteacher of the Bishops Church of England Primary Academy, part of Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT).

Mrs Ratcliffe and headteacher September provision, schools. She Clacton for a headteacher being an getting to know Mrs Ratcliffe moved to She trained take two research. she gained, On her appointment proud to Church of team are one the children look forward with the community”.

Mrs Ratcliffe has a wealth of teaching experience and headteacher roles since her first headship in September 2004. These have included alternative provision, mainstream, local authority and church schools. She was an executive headteacher in Clacton for a few years before returning to being a headteacher where she explained ‘she missed being an integral part of the community and getting to know the children and families.’

Mrs Ratcliffe lived and trained in Sheffield and moved to Suffolk in 2004 for her first headship. She trained at the University of Cambridge to take two PGCEs and a PG Dip in educational research. She also has a SENDCo award, which she gained, through the University of Cambridge.

On her appointment she said: “I am incredibly proud to be the Headteacher of the Bishop’s Church of England Primary Academy. The staff team are one big family. Their dedication to giving the children the best education is an inspiration. I look forward to working with them to grow our links with the community”.

Mrs Ratcliffe their recent was graded for Early Development. Oliver Burwood, Education “We are to Bishop’s. talented headteacher

Mrs Ratcliffe was delighted with the outcome of their recent Ofsted inspection where the school was graded as requires improvement with good for Early Years and the provision for Personal Development.

Oliver Burwood, CEO of Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT) said: “We are delighted to welcome Mrs Ratcliffe to Bishop’s. She is a hugely experienced and talented headteacher with exactly the skills and

knowledge needed to lead The Bishops on to further improvement. DNEAT has a very strong focus on The Bishop’s Academy and its success is important to everybody at The Trust”.

Mrs Ratcliffe moved to Norfolk at Easter and lives with her husband and two dogs. She has a grownup daughter who is also a teacher.

Mrs Ratcliffe takes over the role from Interim Headteacher, Chris Read, who returns to DNEAT’s central leadership team, and she will continue to build upon his good work.

Mrs Ratcliffe with pupils from Bishops CofE Primary

MONEY

TIME DON’T

The coming for reviewing Chamberlain

MONEY MATTERS

TIME TO REVIEW YOUR TAX AFFAIRS SO YOU DON’T LOSE OUT AT THE TAX YEAR END

The coming end of the tax year is a time for reviewing your tax planning, says Colin Chamberlain of Lovewell Blake

This has been fewer than passing through Street in the them a tsunami and ‘fiscal year just weeks about what taking advantage which are traps resulting allowances.

This has been a tax year like few others, with no fewer than four Chancellors of the Exchequer passing through the revolving doors of 11 Downing Street in the past twelve months – bringing with them a tsunami of Budgets, financial statements and ‘fiscal events’. So with the end of the tax year just weeks away, now is a good time to think about what you need to do to make sure you are taking advantage of all of the various allowances which are available – and not falling foul of tax traps resulting from rising tax rates and falling allowances.

For companies, (taking effect tax from 19% of more than companies profits under for profits fact be 26.5%. especially decisions the ‘Super can offset disappears

For companies, one of the biggest changes (taking effect on 1st April) is a hike in corporation tax from 19% to 25% for all companies with profits of more than £250,000. Only the very smallest companies will remain paying 19% (those with profits under £50,000), whilst the effective rate for profits between £50,000 and £250,000 will in fact be 26.5%. This may mean careful planning, especially around the timing of taking income and decisions on expenditure. In addition to all of that, the ‘Super Deduction’, under which companies can offset 130% of qualifying capital expenditure, disappears on 31st March.

which broadly permit you to contribute up to £40,000 a year into your pension and benefit from tax relief (provided your contributions don’t exceed your total income). Likewise, everyone can invest up to £20,000 into ISAs each tax year, so if you haven’t yet used up that allowance, you only have a few weeks.

Finally, Christmas may be over, but you can give away a total of £3,000 in gifts in any one tax year without affecting any future inheritance tax liability. Staggering such gifts across two tax years effectively doubles the allowance.

Colin Chamberlain is a tax consultant based at Lovewell Blake’s Thetford office.

For company receive dividends, the current of any dividend have already whether you taxpayer. This and will be Also announced Statement the annual April, from £3,000 in assets such and shares, cannot be next, so if lose it. Other include the cannot be next, so if lose it. Other include the Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements 39

For company owners and other shareholders who receive dividends, there is a Dividend Allowance in the current tax year, which means the first £2,000 of any dividend income is free of tax even if you have already used up your personal allowance –whether you are a basic, higher or additional rate taxpayer. This is halved for the tax year 2023/24, and will be halved again to just £500 in 2024/25. Also announced in Jeremy Hunt’s Autumn Statement was the reduction by more than half in the annual capital gains tax allowance from 6 th April, from £12,300 to £6,000 (it will fall again to £3,000 in 2024). For those planning to dispose of assets such as second homes, rental properties and shares, timing is key – the annual allowance cannot be carried over from one tax year to the next, so if you haven’t used it by 5th April, you will lose it. Other ‘use-them-or-lose-them’ allowances include the pension contributions allowances,

Please mention the About Thetford Magazine 39 cannot be carried over from one tax year to the next, so if you haven’t used it by 5th April, you will lose it. Other ‘use-them-or-lose-them’ allowances include the pension contributions allowances,

Grants

Grants Available To Celebrate King's Coronation

Breckland are to be celebrate over £40,000 communities

Breckland Council has announced giant screens are to be installed in the district's towns to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III with over £40,000 grant funding also set aside to help communities mark the occasion.

At the Breckland in January, Member for almost £70,000 support a the community which will Building on last year, a groups and to hold local scheme will councils to help them this unique Breckland each of the celebration coronation. will be shown be funded events will either local

At the Breckland Council Cabinet meeting held in January, Councillor Alison Webb, Executive Member for Health & Communities, announced almost £70,000 would be made available to support a wide range of events and grants to help the community celebrate the King's coronation, which will take place on 6th May.

Building on the success of the Platinum Jubilee last year, a new grant scheme will see community groups and charities able to bid for up to £500 to hold local coronation celebrations. A second scheme will be available to town and parish councils to provide up to £200 in match funding to help them purchase flag poles and flags to mark this unique day. In addition to the grant schemes, Breckland Council also outlined plans to provide each of the district's five market towns with celebration street banners in honour of the King's coronation. Finally, TV coverage of the coronation will be shown on large, outdoor screens which will be funded by Breckland Council. The screening events will be funded by the council and run by either local town councils or community groups.

Councillor Alison Webb, Executive Member for Health and Communities said: "The coronation of King Charles III will be a once in the lifetime experience and a truly historic moment in our nation's history. We are delighted to support various initiatives to bring communities together to mark this occasion over the May Bank Holiday weekend”.

Councillor Stuart Terry, representative for Thetford Boudica Ward said; “I know we have a number of groups locally who regularly organise really great community events. I encourage them to apply for this new funding to help celebrate the King’s coronation in style this year and provide residents with a truly memorable experience”.

Further information on how local groups, charities, or local councils can access funding will be made available on the website: www.breckland.gov.uk/coronation

London Road, Brandon, Suffolk, IP27 0EW

T: 01842 810534 E: brandon@mark-skinner.org.uk

27 High Street, Lakenheath, Suffolk, IP27 9JS

T: 01842 862777 E: lakenheath@mark-skinner.org.uk

30 Bury Road, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 3DE

T: 01842 752197 E: thetford@mark-skinner.org.uk www.markskinnerfunerals.org.uk

Learning

Learning About The F-35 Lightning

Cdr Tim Flatman 207 Sqn at to present which is a stealth multirole Mundford 2006 it has A, B and C; of the tech-speak however was He explained tailored to Kingdom Short Take operate from To demonstrate also gave with F-35 some in Canada a number the qualifications generation muscle, a conscious iPhone finger-tip aircraft the recorded by not allow the aircraft's American North Sea using simulators; composed man (say, record turn-out were ladies; the result bit of both. at the end asked by

Cdr Tim Flatman RN, the Officer Commanding 207 Sqn at Marham, very kindly offered his time to present a talk about the revered F-35 Lightning which is a single-seat, single-engine, all-weather stealth multirole combat aircraft; often visiting Mundford airspace. After coming into service in 2006 it has evolved into three different variants, A, B and C; less difficult to understand than some of the tech-speak in Tim's repertoire. This data however was limited to an unclassified selection. He explained that each of the variants were tailored to specific requirements with the United Kingdom operating the F-35B version with a Short Take Off Vertical Landing capability that can operate from both land and sea.

To demonstrate the popularity of the machine he also gave details of the distribution of end users with F-35 aircraft flown by America, Great Britain, some in Canada and Australia and quite a few in a number of European countries. Tim described the qualifications necessary to produce a modern generation pilot: he or she no longer needed muscle, a seat-of-the pants approach or inertia conscious intuition, but, it is preferable to possess iPhone finger-tip coordination. When flying the aircraft the pilots movements are monitored and recorded by base control and, the aeroplane will not allow the pilot to make commands beyond the aircraft's capability. Combined British and American training exercises take place over the North Sea but much of the expertise is achieved using simulators; about 50%. It seems this well composed and imposing matter-of-fact young man (say, forty-three) was responsible for the record turn-out (thirty-seven present, six of whom were ladies; very encouraging) or maybe it was the result of additional website data; maybe a bit of both. There was a barrage of questions at the end of the evening and one in particular asked by a lady enquiring about the F35’s fuel

consumption: “Was the aircraft ‘green’”? At this point Tim could have said, “No, it’s silver” or, as a politician might say, “It’s thirsty but for the greater good”. Instead he savoured the moment of being part of a comedy double act as he mentioned that he did cycle!

For more info about West Norfolk Aviation Society visit: www.westnorfolkaviationsociety.org.uk

Nigel Tooth

Cdr Tim Flatman from RAF Marham

Dealing

Unfortunately, cause of mould to work out there’s an are many rising, penetrating, damp. Citizen’s that may help have, who

Dealing With Damp In The Home

Unfortunately, it isn’t always easy to work out the cause of mould or damp. This can make it difficult to work out if your landlord is responsible, unless there’s an obvious cause, like a leaking roof. There are many causes of damp, the most common are rising, penetrating, construction and condensation damp. Citizen’s Advice website has information that may help you work out what type of damp you have, who is responsible and what you can do.

If you are relation to someone to tenant or a raise the issue responsible should have If the damp is responsible frames, they’ll repairs. One is condensation. keep homes for a lot of weather with advice on may impact

If you are renting, a landlord will have to act in relation to damp if it makes the property unsafe for someone to live in. For example, if it is making the tenant or a member of their family ill, you should raise the issue with them. The landlord will also be responsible if the damp is related to repairs they should have carried out, like if heaters are broken. If the damp has damaged items that the landlord is responsible for, such as carpets and window frames, they’ll likely have to cover the cost of repairs. One of the most common causes of damp is condensation. To prevent this, it’s important to keep homes well-heated and well-ventilated, but for a lot of people this will be trickier in colder weather with rising heating costs. There is also advice on things that can make damp worse and may impact the landlord taking responsibility

Wiping away condensation on windows and doors can help prevent mold developing

for repairs. These include drying clothes on heaters or blocking air vents. If your landlord is responsible for the damp in your property but doesn’t act, there are steps you can take, such as reporting them to the local authority. If you’re in social housing you might also be able to use the landlord’s formal complaints procedure. If it reaches the point where you want to get out of a fixed term tenancy agreement early, do speak to an adviser first, as there might be better ways to approach the issue.

You may also find helpful information online: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/ renting-privately/during-your-tenancy/ dealing-with-repairs/

1

Solving Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, is the result of ultra violet light, hormones or skin trauma. This can lead to darkened patches on the skin. The cells in the skin responsible for our colour are called melanocytes and they can become over stimulated and damaged leading to them producing more pigment than is needed and that presents itself as discolouration and patchiness. Treating pigmentation needs regular good homecare with key ingredients that deal with the condition and can also be greatly helped with Intense pulse light (IPL for short). The light from the laser is attracted to the pigment in the skin. The patch will become darker for approximately five to ten days and then the skin will naturally shed. Over the next four weeks the pigmentation will become lighter.

Most people need one to three treatments but it’s a good idea to be using specific homecare, tailored for treating pigment, for example an spf of 25-30 should be applied daily to protect from the ultra violet light. UV light is the number one catalyst for pigmentation production and sun screen should be worn to limit the skin discolouration developing further. Lactic acid, a resurfacing ingredient sloughs away the surface cells which give uneven skin a darker appearance. It helps to reveal new fresh skin for a more brightened complexion. It also works in inhibiting tyrosinase enzyme which is needed by the melanocyte cells to over produce pigment.

Vitamin C in products helps to assist in brightening and radiance and acts as a tyrosinase inhibitor. As well as our advanced IPL laser treatments the Eve Taylor salon strength facials together with the homecare routine of such products like Dynamic Resurfacing cleanser, Resurfacing cream exfoliate, Illuminating serum and C+ Bright priming moisturiser SPF30 well all help to improve hyperpigmentation.

Lisa Stallings, Halcyon Days

Since our has had a being played highlight provided not company, the afternoon side, not only Town Centre.

Thetford RFC Diary By Touchline Tippler

Since our last touch line report the weather has had a major influence on the lack of rugby being played at Two Mile Bottom. The December highlight was, in fact, the VP’s lunch which provided not only excellent fare, but also great company, followed by the players joining later in the afternoon to then promote rugby’s entertaining side, not only at the clubhouse, but also in the Town Centre.

The only Mildenhall Mildenhall and versatile Thetford showed and there quarters. Needless season will close knit the full in Walsham 3rds. The next along with welcome to a kickoff being

The only outing has been a friendly against Mildenhall where the final score was 34/43 to Mildenhall and highlighted two exceptionally swift and versatile US players in the opposing side. Thetford showed up as a strong pack performance and there were flashes of brilliance in the three quarters. Needless to say the second half of the season will show continued improvement of this close knit group of players which will be tested to the full in the next fixture which is away to North Walsham 3rds.

The next VP’s lunch will be on 18th February along with a game against Watton. Everybody is welcome to come along to support the team, with a kickoff being at 2pm.

The club is always looking for new players. Training is on a Thursday evening from 7pm onwards. All levels of ability are welcome.

For more information follow the club on Facebook or email: thetford-rfc@outlook.com

Do you have a sports story or club report that you’d like to share? The deadline for the March edition is 15th February. Please send your copy and high resolution images to: aboutthetfordmagazine@googlemail.com

Thetford RFC in action image: ©Andrew Sparrowhawk/TRFC