JANUARY 2017 About Thetford magazine by About Thetford magazine

Circulation 12,000 copies

Issue 134 January 2017

Your Local Independent Community Magazine

Thetford Singers Shine at Christmas Cheer

Happy New Year We would like to wish clients past, present & future a prosperous 2017.

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About Thetford Welcome to January’s r, thoughts of the past With the arrival of a New Yea we reflect on what has year naturally come to mind as to come. For myself, I Page 4 & 5 - Out and About Thetford t’s wha to been and look forward I would be writing this Page 7 - This Girl Can would never have believed that ct on the last year, one of Page 9 - New Year With Thetford U3A column a year ago. As I refle ortunity to ‘pay it back’ to Page 10 - ‘Our Story’ - London Overspill opp my highlights has been the tions that supported me some of the community organisa Page 11 - Thetford Past and Present rse - the launch of our new in my previous role and of cou k Page 15 - Volunteer Open Morning enjoyed hearing feedbac website!. Both Terry and I have to hear Page 16 - Wedding Fair Taking Place sing plea arly icul part it’s and about the magazine, ounding villages that they Page 18 & 19 - Leaping Hare from people living in the surr ing Thetford as much as Page 21 - News from BTO enjoy finding out about everyth we do. Page 23- GTDP Community Sub Group can read about a whole Page 29 -Life Of Panto Make Up Artist you ion edit th’s mon this In took plce locally over Page 33 - Garden & Allotment Club number of fantastic events that peak of things to come in the past month plus a sneak petition on page 18 for a Page 35 - Ancient House Museum January. Do check out the com tford Player’s pantomine Page 37 - The Ultimate Question? chance to win tickets to the The ets now - it’s well worth Page 39 - Thetford Library and you can book your own tick ils page 6. Page 43 - Festival of Winter Walks going along to watch - full deta r. Yea New Page 46 - Success for Dolphins py Hap Wishing you a very Peaceful and Karen Sullivan 1-8th Advert_Layout 1 14/12/2016 08:28 Page Front cover photo courtesy of Keith Mindham

Inside this month...

RON SULLIVAN BRICKWORK AND PAVING

Tel: 01842 764006 Mobile: 07878396989 Email: sullivanron2@gmail.com Web: ronsullivanbrickandpavingexpert.com

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

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Out & About Thetford

Thetford Players prepare for Panto Extravaganza!

About Thetford was delighted to be invited to watch a rehearsal for the upcoming Snow White production. Along with firm favourites the cast has several new faces this year including Lynne Jeffries as the evil Queen and Frankie Soan as Snow White. Speaking about her part, Lynne said “I’ve helped backstage during the last two productions, this time around I decided to audition, but didn’t think I’d ever get a part. Then they offered me the Evil Queen! Evil is strangely fun to play and I think I’ll enjoy the interaction with the audience. The louder they are, the more sinister I’ll become!” A new group of children have been welcomed into the Players family, all taking on the role of the dwarves lead by Jack Jenkins. Rosie and Megan, the youngest dwarves, are making their stage debut at the age of 5. With lively songs & plenty of action, this Panto has something for everyone. Tickets available from Leaping Hare Box Office

Thetford Singers Triumph with Christmas Cheer Thetford Guildhall was

filled with the most beautiful harmonious sound for the Thetford Singers and special guests, Thursday Nights annual Christmas Concert. The audience was entertained with a repertoire ranging from rousing to lullaby like songs with a smattering of audience participation. Musical Director Chris Parsons continues to bring the very best out of this exciting community choir, accompanied by the magnificent Pip Jepson on piano. The song choice was varied and certainly Photo credit: Keith Mindham Photography provided ‘Christmas Cheer’! John Rutter’s Christmas Lullaby was introduced with “Without John Rutter, it wouldn’t be Christmas”. Bringing a change of tempo Bob Settle joined Pip Jenson to play percussion on Tomorrow shall be my dancing day, before the singers performed O Magnum Mysterium, a piece they have worked on for the past 6 weeks. Thursday Nights directed by Sally Bauer opened their set with a beautifully moving interpretation of O Holy Night, and later delighted Karen and Terry with a rendition of Carol of the Bells, one of their festive favourites, Terry said that it gave him goose bumps! The Guildhall surely hasn’t heard such exciting renditions of ‘God rest you Merry Gentlemen’ and ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’ for many years as the audience rose to the occasion and sung alongside the Thetford Singers. At the end of the evening the audience joined in with the finale piece and were left with the words “Be merry and glad this good new year” as this year’s concert came to a close. Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

U3A celebrate Christmas together 130 members of Thetford U3A enjoyed their annual Christmas get together with live music by the U3A band—Superannuated Sounds. Opening their set with ‘Wagon Wheel’, the band with 12 members, is just one of the active groups within the Thetford branch. Bingo Trivia was organised by another of the groups, although Karen said she’d heard easier questions on a mastermind final, there were plenty of people calling their line! Finally a free raffle was drawn. You can enjoy a diverse range of subject at U3A such as Mah-jong, Industrial Tourism, Wine Tasting and Handicrafts. It’s he ideal place to go if you like group holidays. Chair Lynn Ready explained “If you’re on your own it’s a good place to come to, people feel welcomed and it’s easy to join in.” Lorraine Scott followed on “A lady I know recommended U3A to me and it’s gone from there. I encouraged my mum to come along and we’ve been on several tips and enjoy being part of a couple of other groups.” In April 32 members will enjoy a group trip to Scotland followed by another group of 11 travelling to Italy in June. For more information about U3A email: lynn.ready@hotmail.co.uk

TADDS enjoy a musical Christmas gathering Friends and family joined regular

TADDS (Thetford & District Dementia Support) users for their annual Christmas event. The group was originally set up in July 2014 and is run by Jo Mountjoy-Dixon, an experienced dementia lead and her team of volunteers. TADDS meets regularly at Cloverfields Church and has recently been given charity status. Every week 35—40 local residents attend the sessions either after a referral by their GP or Health Professional or because they are in the early stage of diagnosis & have decided to find out more about the condition. One of the family members attending told Karen “I’ve found out lots of advice, support and good ideas to make life easier for my mum. Mum also seems to enjoy coming and takes part in the activities.” Superannuated Sounds started the party, followed by a Christmas medley sing along with Discord Wellbeing Choir. Jo Cooper from Discord said “Last year I visited TADDS as Discord were raising money for Dementia, and I wanted to see if we could give a donation. I liked the group so much, that I quickly became a volunteer and I’m now one of 6 trustees!” The group are looking for a Patron and extra volunteers to help develop their next project, Dementia Friendly Thetford. If you would like to volunteer for TADDS, or for more information please contact Jo Mountjoy-Dixon by email at taddsgroup@hotmail.com Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

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#thisgirlcan - Roni Dean

In partnership with Leaping Hare and Thetford Garden Centre we are celebrating our community over the next year starting with a campaign linked to #thisgirlcan. We want to celebrate girls who are empowering others to take part in sports and careers that are traditionally seen as male activities. Local boxer Roni Dean from Thetford Town Boxing Club talks about her love of sport and her boxing aspirations. How did you get involved in Boxing? Boxing has been in my family and I’ve grown up listening about stories of when my dad, my uncles and cousins used to box. My cousin Rocky Dean was a professional boxer, I will always remember the night we went to watch him and he won the southern area title, I just remember how proud I felt, and how proud my whole family were. I wanted to lose a bit of weight and get fit so my dad suggested that I join in with their boxing sessions. I started off just going once a week. I used to refuse to do shadow boxing because I felt so stupid. How has Boxing changed you? I was rubbish at PE at school and I never wanted to sweat because it would ruin my hair and makeup. When I first started training I used to wear makeup, as soon as I started to get more involved I stopped and I stopped caring about what I looked like whilst I trained, I wasn’t afraid to sweat anymore. When I was 18 I started to take boxing more seriously but I thought I’d never be good enough or fit enough to do it. Then one day I told my dad that I wanted to be on the squad, and he said “But you don’t want to box so you can’t be on the squad” He told me “Well you have to run if you want to box Roni,you have to be fit”. From that day onwards I started to run, at first I couldn’t even manage 1 mile then eventually I was running 7. In November 2014 I had my first fight and I won by stoppage in the second round. Stepping onto that canvas in front of all my family and friends with my dad in the corner was

the best feeling in the world and I will never forget it. Boxing has completely changed my life for the better, deciding to box was the best decision I ever made. Where you ever told that boxing wasn't for girls? I was always encouraged by my dad, mum and brother from the minute I started really taking boxing seriously, I was lucky in that way. There’s been the odd comment been made about me but I just don’t take any notice; I’m too focused on what I’m doing. The worst experience I’ve had was when I was coaching and one of the older officials told me that I had to leave the weigh-in room because it wasn’t right for a lady to be present. I was so embarrassed and angry I just left the room. Do you feel like you have a responsibility to girls starting out to act as a role model towards them? Yes definitely, we have a few girls now learning boxing in the junior sessions and I always make the effort with them. I really want them to stick at it because it would be amazing to have a team of girls competing for our town. I always encourage people to start boxing because it teaches the individual so much about commitment dedication and also builds their confidence.

Read more about Roni on the new community board at Thetford Garden Centre from January until March.

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Breckland Mobility Offering FREE Mobility Scooter Checks As the weather is getting colder and the evenings are drawing in, it’s important to stay safe and visible when you’re out and about. That’s why, Breckland Mobility are offering FREE Winter Scooter Checks until the end of March, when pre-booked and brought in to them. This is carried out by an in-house technician to give you peace of mind and keep you on your way. What is more, they will give you a 10% discount off any recommended work. Plus, if you’re due a full service between January and March, they will supply you with a FREE hi-viz vest to keep you bright and visible.

Gary Pease - Technician from Breckland Mobility

can’t get up to see us as easily. This can be particularly difficult for those who rely on a regular supply of incontinence products. Call us to request a free incontinence brochure and we can explain our mail order service to you. Why not call in and see our wide range of daily living aids to help you or your loved ones, gain their independence and experience a better quality of living. From aids to get your socks on, to riser recliner chairs to relax on. You may be surprised just what’s available to help!”

Gary Pease from Breckland Mobility said: “One thing that sometimes gets overlooked by scooter owners over Winter is their battery pack. Make sure to extend the life of your batteries by keeping them regularly charged, even if you are not using your scooter as often as you would in the Summer months. Just one simple job each week could keep you from any nasty surprises when you go to use it in the spring. If you think your batteries aren’t quite making the distance they have done previously, why not schedule a battery test with us. We understand that over winter, many of our customers

Happy New Year from All the staff at Breckland Mobility.

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Your New Year’s Resolution

Do Something Amazing This Year And Support An Older Person In Norfolk

Make sure it is with Thetford University of the Third Age! Unlike a 'real' University there are no exams! We are third agers who take pleasure in coming together to share enjoyment in learning something new or revisiting something known. Thetford U3A has over 40 interest groups so you will never be bored!

Every year, thousands of older people look to local charity Age UK Norfolk for support. Whether it’s a bit of advice in a time of need, help filling out complicated forms or just a friendly chat when they’re feeling lonely, we are here to help. But we can’t do it alone. Without the help of our dedicated team of volunteers who give up their own time, we couldn’t deliver all the services that we do. This year, following on from campaigns such as Good Morning Britain’s 1 Million Minutes, we’re asking if you could pledge some time to help make a change in someone’s life. No experience is necessary, and whatever your talents and interests, there is bound to be a voluntary opportunity where you can share your knowledge, make new friends and make a real difference All volunteers are offered full training and will get ongoing support and advice from the Volunteer Nanagement team.

Have a chat and a laugh with like-minded people while partaking in any activity of your choice: antiques, art, art history, badminton, bird watching, book club, bridge, calligraphy, card making, cinema and theatre, computing, cookery, cycling, day trips, drama, electronics, French, gardening, genealogy, German, handicrafts, holidays, indoor bowls, industrial tourism, mah-jong, marquetry, maths, music, orienteering, photography, topical discussion, quiz, science, scrabble, short tennis, Spanish, lunch club, table tennis, tennis, walking, wine tasting, woodwork and world war history. You can be a beginner or an expert, it does not matter as we all learn from each other.

To find out more call 01603 785241 or; www.ageuknorfolk. John Oliver January Ad_Layout 1 13/12/2016 11:59 P org.uk

Come to our monthly talk on Thursday 26 January: 'An introduction to gemstones' 1.45 pm at the Carnegie Room, Thetford. Free to members £2 for non-members (refundable if you join on the day). Happy New Year to everyone! For more information, visit: www.thetfordu3a.org

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Support to Explore History Of Thetford’s London Overspill

to the Abbey Neighbourhood Centre. This could be photographs, postcards or objects. This will then be photographed and be shown as part of our exhibition at the end of the project. The group are also learning ancient lost local crafts, such as straw work and paper making as well as crafts from the 1960/70s such as screen-printing and marbling. They will create their own art work in response to both this and their heritage research which will all be be displayed in the exhibition. This project is about local people gaining a deeper insight into their heritage, memories and experiences and capturing them before they are lost to time.

Keystone Development Trust has received £10,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for an exciting project, ‘Our Story’, in Thetford. The project combines the arts and heritage to help improve the wellbeing of participants. Led by Holly Sandiford, Project Coordinator, with Keystone’s Arts and Wellbeing group, the project focuses on the London Overspill and the impact on ordinary, local people’s lives. They will be working closely with the Ancient House Museum and the library as an invaluable research resource. The group themselves are rich in knowledge as many have personal or family connections to the London overspill.

Tracey Robertson, Communities Team Manager at Keystone said ‘We are very excited to have the opportunity to work with local people to explore and celebrate this part of our community’s history.

The project is about community heritage and encouraging people to explore their own unique heritage and the history of the community that they live in. So what is the London overspill? The Town Expansion Scheme in Thetford allowed families from large cities to move into smaller country towns. In 1953 Thetford Borough Council approached London County Council to become part of the scheme, and Thetford may have been the first town to do so. In 1957, Thetford signed an agreement that would transform the town. Work began on new housing estates and 5,000 Londoners moved to Thetford. The group will learn to professionally record the oral histories of local people from this time which will then be stored and available to the public for years to come. If you have a story to tell then either pop in to The Abbey neighbourhood Centre or contact Holly on holly@keystonetrust.org.uk

Robyn Llewellyn, Head of HLF East of England, said: “Thetford’s status as an overspill town for Londoners following the Second World War was a turning point in the history of the town. Now, nearly 60 years on, we’re pleased to support this project thanks to National Lottery players, which will enable local people to gain skills, improve their wellbeing and explore their community’s heritage.”

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Also, on the 31st January, between 12 and 2pm, the project group is asking the public to bring in memorabilia from Theford during the London Overspill

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Past & Present

The past photograph, taken from the County Library car park about 1972, captures Mayesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Yard, formerly Blackburnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Yard, an interesting collection of old industrial buildings.

Photographs courtesy of the David Osborne Collection

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WEA Spring Course - Russian Culture The WEA (Workers Educational Association) provided us with a a most enjoyable course for our Autumn term; we were studying Italian opera so the music was glorious - but who would have thought we would have laughed so much! Many thanks to Andres Hernandez Salazar.

www.winnersbingo.co.uk Open EVERY AFTERNOON and EVENING Morning sessions Tuesday and Thursday

Now we are looking forward to our Spring course on 'Russians and Russian Culture in the USSR' with Marina Burrell. This course draws on the tutor's own experience of living in the USSR, looking at education, economy, family life, popular culture and travel. The sessions will be interactive and illustrated with period artefacts, audio and video materials.Our meetings are held at the Methodist Church Hall on Mondays. The first will be at 10am on 9th January. There will be 10 sessions of 2 hours and the cost is £73.50. More details can be found online at www.eastern.wea.org.uk. Local queries can be addressed to Susan Pilgrim at: sfpilgrim@hotmail.com

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BIG CASH PRIZES every day SLOT MACHINE LOUNGE SUPER LINK and NATIONAL GAMES HOT and COLD MEALS at the BUFFET LICENSED BAR FULLY AIR CONDITIONED JOIN FREE and PLAY on arrival at the club

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Tiny Tags Track Birds

Cuckoo recently flew from India to Africa covering 2500 kilometres in just 48 hours and Swifts can stay aloft for 10 months at a time. There was an animated question and answers session and a vote of thanks was given by committee member Dan Jeffrey with members showing their appreciation in the usual way. Ensuring that the BTO continues its research to gain more understanding of birds so they do not become endangered requires the generous support of the public besides that of its 20,000 members. If you would like to give support go to www.bto.org Picture: Leuan Evans holds a Nightjar caught in Thetford Forest - one of the birds that BTO has conducted studies into its migration pattern.

It has been two years since Thetford Probus Club had a talk about the work of locally-based, British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), but even in that short time, advances in technology have opened up a new world of information and data about bird behaviour. Speaker Leuan Evans, the Trust’s Associate Director of Communication, explained how miniaturised solar powered tags are the key to this, especially in uncovering the mysteries of bird migration. The tiny devices have amazing accuracy down to metre in transmitting a bird’s whereabouts via satellite to BTO headquarters in Thetford. It is being used to track the flight paths of cuckoos from Britain to Africa which is varying, possibly due to the effects of climate change. Mr Evans spoke about the huge amount of work the Trust does in monitoring the population of many species of birds and also its research into why some are in serious decline while others thrive. In the case of Mistle Thrushes and Green Finches, both becoming rarer visitors to our gardens, he said it could be because of the use of such things as slug pellets and other chemicals along with disease. To combat the latter he urged regular cleaning of feeders and water stations. Touching on the marvel of many birds’ ability to navigate over thousands of miles and reach exactly the right destination time and again, Jobthat to Small QPdon’t Advert_Layout 1 09/06/2016 heNosaid we still know the answer to this. Similarly, on how far birds can fly, he said a tagged

Life is for Living Older adults exercise Fridays at 1.30pm Terrapin behind Fulmerston Church Friendly & relaxed atmosphere £3 per session No need for any special clothing New year begins Jan 13th 2017

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Health Volunteers Service in Thetford

Short Mat Bowls To Launch In Thetford

Our Health Volunteers visit Thetford and surrounding area residents who have few visitors or little support. It is easy to become socially isolated after an illness, bereavement or major life event. This means that the people we support come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Many of the people we support are older and frequently suffer with ill health or are just lonely. Volunteers can provide a variety of support tailored to each person by becoming a befriender and this could include: Providing companionship on a regular basis, encouraging social interaction with support to ‘go out and about’. Enable someone to do something by encouraging confidence. Assistance managing health conditions including physical and mental recovery after injury, bereavement or major life event. Relieve a carer by sitting with a loved one, or providing practical support around the home or garden. Undertake active and healthy tasks with the person from gardening to walking

Volunteers can provide a variety of support tailored to each person by becoming a befriender and this could include helping people to access health and social care services, provide practical support around the home with things like DIY or gardening, assistance with managing health conditions, support to follow a rehabilitation programme, provide carers with short breaks from their caring responsibilities and encourage social interaction with support to ‘go out and about’.

The new club will be launched on 6 January at 7.00 pm and will be opened by the Mayor - waiting to hear about this. PleaseRaj do QP come and help us put1Thetford on the 11:31 Thetford Advert 3_Layout 16/12/2016 short mat bowling map.

& NE N W EW L O M OK EN U

Health volunteers can make a real difference by meeting regularly and offering a one to one partnership. They can visit someone at home, in a care home or in supported accommodation. They can share interests and activities with the person they visit, whilst doing ordinary things like going for a coffee, or simply enjoying a chat.

Having spent 4 weeks learning the game of short mat bowls, about 20 members have signed up to form a new club in Thetford. The club will be based at the Charles Burrell Centre and will meet on Fridays from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. We plan to play internal competitions to start with, which will lead on to friendly games against other clubs in the area. If you would like to join us to try this easy to learn, sociable sport, do please come to join us.

Banquet Night EVERY WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY (Dine in only) £10.95pp Starter, Main Dish, Vegi Dish Rice and Nan Extra £2.50 for dishes above £8.00 Extra £1.95 Fish & King prawn starters

Sunday Buffet

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

For further information please contact Jane Hawker: thetfordvc@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk Telephone: 01842 755941

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

We are holding a:

Volunteer Open Morning

33 Admirals Way, Thetford IP24 2LB

Tel 01842 764240/765190

At Riversdale Centre, Tanner Street, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2BQ on Wednesday 18th January 10.00-12.00 if you would like to find out about volunteering with us or other local charities, do pop in and say hello!

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15% DISCOUNT ON ALL COLLECTED ORDERS OVER £10

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Exciting Year Ahead for Burrell Centre The beginning of a new year is always a great time to set new targets and devise strategies to achieve them. At Charles Burrell Centre we remain more focused than ever at developing and improving our facilities and services. There is so much to look forward to in 2017. Being a non-profit organisation, we are always identifying the best ways to reinvest and build towards a stable future. We have recently installed two new hot water systems which will help reduce our utility consumption and will be upgrading a number of doors and windows to improve security, presentation and energy efficiency. Having refurbished our changing facilities to cater to large sports events and functions we are also improving our training rooms which can be hired for a number of uses. We also have a range of small projects that we are hoping to launch with the support of grant funding. These range from gardening projects to work experience opportunities. A number of events will also take place at the centre throughout the year to raise funds. We would like to thank you all for your support in 2016 and look forward to seeing you soon. If you would like to stay up to date with what is happening at the Centre be sure to ‘Like’ our Facebook page and also asked to be added to our regular newsletter distribution list. For more information, please do get in touch via 01842 779867.

JOB VACANCY FOR RECEPTIONIST & ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT At Charles Burrell Centre 37* hours per week. £15,392 per annum (*If two suitable candidates came forward then 2 x 18.5 hour a week positions could be possible) Job Role: To provide reception cover at the Centre; greeting visitors and ensuring the signing in procedures are followed. Undertake necessary administration tasks to ensure the smooth running of the Centre. Co-ordinate all sessional bookings at the Centre and ensuring necessary bookings paperwork has been completed and liaise with the external accountant to ensure invoices are submitted promptly and that payment is received in accordance with Ts & Cs.

Staniforth School Reunion

Closing date: Closing date for the receipt of applications is: 5pm on Monday 9th January 2017. Interviews to take place on Friday 13th January.

Anyone who left Staniforth School in 1976 and would be interested in attending the reunion that we have planned for the 10th June 2017 at the Charles Burrell Centre 18:30 to 23:45, please contact us a: theclassof76@outlook.com Or visit our Facebook page:- Staniforth School (Secondary Modern) Thetford 1975/6. Kevin Stone

How to apply: To request the application pack email: mark@charlesburrellcentre.org.uk or telephone 01842 779867. CV’s can be attached to the application form but the application form must be completed.

WINTER

up to HALF PRICE Selected Ranges PLUS EXTRA 10% OFF MUNDFORD ROAD, THETFORD NORFOLK, Call 01842 766663 Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

About Thetford and Leaping Hare bring you another brilliant competition. For your chance to win a ticket for four for opening night of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Thetford Playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s panto Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, just answer this simple question: How many dwarfs are there? Send your answer by email and full contact details to Leaping Hare info@leapinghare.org by Monday 9th January. The winner will be the first drawn by Assistant Editor Karen on Tuesday 10th January. Normal In & About Thetford T&Cs apply. For more details see: www.abouthetfordmagazine.co.uk

Photo: Maria Cooke

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It’s a Happy New Year to you and a Happy New Year to Thetford’s Great Directory! Since launch, we have been asked to produce Directories for others - so we know we have something special. If you are not already a part of the directory, what are you waiting for? Prices range from FREE to £50 a year for a business (£25 for community groups). The interactive map, live Twitter feed, Facebook integration, event calendar links, make this a brilliant resource and very easy to use. If you are a successful company, you should be advertising as a key employer. If you are a small group with no website - this effectively gives you a mini website at very low cost. Every paid entry helps fund the Information Centre - so it’s a complete win, win!

Thetford’s Great Events calendar on line leapinghare.org has full details of What’s On. Sat 31 Dec Family New Year’s Eve Party Sat 7 Jan Thetford Society Christmas Buffet Fri 13 Jan - 21 Jan Snow White Panto Fri 13 Jan Ghost Walk Sat 14 - Sun 15 Jan Bug Sorting Marathon Sun 15 Jan Militaria Fair Sports Centre Sat 21 Jan Wedding Fayre CBC Thurs 26 Jan Introduction to Gems U3A Talk Fri 27 Jan TARA Awards Sat 28 Jan Peddars Way Ultra Sun 29 Jan Sincerely Yours papercraft show Sun 5 Feb Loki Trail Run Tues 19 Feb Suffolk County Billiards Fri 24 Feb WAW Wrestling Sat 25 Feb BSSF National Championships Fri 3 Mar Final Ghost Walk of the season Sat 11 Mar Mayor's Ball Sat 22 – Sun 23 Apr East Anglian Game & Country Fair This is traditionally the time to think about trying something new - getting fit, giving Parkrun a go? Learn a new skill? Drawing, singing, or perhaps volunteering? Or maybe you’ve decided that 2017 will be the year that you choose to ‘Buy Local’? You can play your part in helping your local economy thrive. Use Thetford’s Great Directoy and get inspired. We add new entries every week, but you can too it’s very simple and easy to do and we’re also very happy to show you how.

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Free Cakes for Kids Thetford has been operating since 2014. We cover Thetford, Bury St Edmunds and the surrounding areas. FCFK is an entirely voluntary project with more than 80 organisations around the UK, and therefore we rely completely on the hard work and contribution of our volunteers. We are a community service to families who find it difficult to provide a Birthday Cake for their child. Our main aim is to put a smile on the face of a child and give them a birthday to remember.

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We have 21 enthusiastic bakers who have so far baked an amazing 54 cakes! We currently work with projects such as Thetford Food Bank, Homestart and Bury St Edmunds Woman’s Aid to name a few. FKFC would benefit from having more bakers on board. You don’t have to be an expert at baking and there are lots of ways to help.

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Throughout December the Tesco store in Thetford organised a ‘Just Giving Christmas Tree’. Customers and staff donated Christmas gifts and essentials for children and young adults and families who needed that bit of extra help especially at Christmas time. Tesco are working alongside Break Children’s Charity and The Tree House Childrens Centre. Tesco would like to thank Customers and Colleagues for being so generous in buying gifts for this great cause also a big thank-you to Zoe Douthwaite and staff from Toni & Guy in Bury St Edmunds for buying gifts too.

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New Year’s Resolutions For Birds As we emerge from the excesses of the festive season, our thoughts invariably turn to the person we want to be in the New Year. Birdwatching is a brilliant reason to go out into the beautiful countryside surrounding Thetford. Not only will you get some much needed fresh air and exercise, helping to shed any excess pounds you might have gained from all those mince pies, but you could be spotting some of the beautiful birds that grace our green and pleasant land at this time of year, including large, colourful and chattering flocks of Siskin, Brambling and Lesser Redpoll from northern Europe and even more exotic species, such as wonderful Waxwings from Siberia. If you enjoy finding such aerial beauties, why not consider taking up one of our surveys and making your records count for conservation? Our BirdTrack scheme is a great way to log your sightings, and the six million records collected each year are analysed by our scientists to demonstrate how our wildlife is responding to climate change. A study published in 2016 showed how many birds that migrate here to breed in summer now arrive earlier and leave later than they did in the 1960s, and the species that have been less able to make this change to their calendar are declining faster than those that have. This is important information when it comes to formulating effective conservation policies.

Photo of a Waxwing by Niko Pekonen / BTO

come here in the winter to feast off our bird tables when they previously migrated to Spain. For more information on our surveys, including which ones you could take up on 1st January, please visit: www.bto.org/volunteer-surveys Viola Ross-Smith, (Science Communications Manager, BTO)

If being out and about in winter isn’t really your thing, you would perhaps get along better with our Garden BirdWatch survey. This runs all year round, and participants record the birds visiting their garden from the warmth of their homes, revealing all sorts of interesting information. For example, did you know feeding birds in gardens has actually led to evolutionary change in Blackcaps? Birds breeding in Germany now

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Greater Thetford Development Partnership Community Sub-Group

COMMUNITY CORNER

The Greater Thetford Development Partnership (GTDP) has been set up by Breckland Council as an advisory body to oversee the forthcoming development in Thetford, including 5,000 new homes. The GTDP Board comprises representatives from local councils, business, health, and education. Community input is also provided through a Community Sub-Group, which comprises one representative from each of the three local parish and town councils (Thetford, Croxton, and Brettenham & Kilverstone) and four co-opted community representatives. The Sub-Group's aims are to ensure that the forthcoming development is carried out in a sympathetic manner, and in the best possible way for the current and future residents, businesses, and visitors; and also to ensure full transparency and community engagement as the plans are developed and implemented. The Sub-Group holds public meetings roughly once a month, at which topics of community interest are discussed. There is time for public questions at the start of each meeting, and the public are also able to contribute throughout. The next meeting is 7-9pm on Wednesday 11th January at the Charles Burrell Centre. For further information or to suggest a topic for discussion, pleaser email Robert Whittaker (Sub-Group Chair) on: rjw-gtdp@mathmos.net

Community Sub-Group Meeting Dates

Resident group meetings taking place in January NEW! Cloverfield Residents’ Association A meeting to discuss whether or not to establish a Residents’ Group for the Cloverfield area is taking place on Wednesday 18th January 2017, from 7pm at the Cloverfield Community Church on Yarrow Close - all welcome. Contact 753566. Abbey Tenants and Residents’ Association Meeting on Monday 9th January 2017, 6pm at the Abbey Neighbourhood Centre. Contact 07768974026 for more information. Barnham Action Group Next meeting will be Monday 16th January 2017. 6pm - 6.30pm for surgery time with Councillors and agencies. 6.30pm main meeting. At Fulmerston Church on Fulmerston Road. Community Coffee Morning Coffee Morning and opportunity to meet staff from Flagship Housing Association from 9.30am on Tuesday 17th January 2017 at Fulmerston Church Croxton Road Community Association Next meeting will be taking place on Monday 9th January at the Church of the Nazarene Hall at 7.30pm. Refreshments available. Contact Ian Dixon, Chairman - 01842 765890

Wednesday 11th January, Wednesday 15th February, Wednesday 15th March, Wednesday 19th April,

Norwich Road Residents’ Association Next meeting: Thursday 26th January 2017 at 8pm Church On The Way, Churchill Road.

All meetings will be held between 7pm and 9pm and take place in the Hotdesk Room at the Charles Burrell Centre, except for 15th March, where I’m still waiting on confirmation, but it will probably be in the same place.

Redcastle Action Group Next meeting will be on Monday 30th January, 7pm at Redcastle Senior Citizens Club.

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Thetford Inner Wheel In November, a coffee morning was hosted by an Inner Wheel member in Wretham raising £458.97 for charity. This, and other charity moneys raised throughout the year, total almost £2000. This was divided up between the following charities: Inner Wheel District 19, York, Calderdale, and Leeds Flood Appeals earlier in the year, a child's car seat for the fracture clinic at West Suffolk Hospital, Parkinsons research, Childrens' Action Group, Mind, the Nook Appeal, the Benjamin Foundation, East Anglian Air Ambulance, Blood Bikers and Prostate Cancer Research. After a warm welcome on December 1st by the President to the Christmas meeting, a delicious meal at the Wereham House Hotel was enjoyed. Following this, and among much hilarity, members enjoyed some Christmas Games and Quizzes led by the President. At the end of the evening, an orchid was presented to Caroline and Andy Blyth to thank them for all their help throughout the year.

Andy and Caroline Blyth, left and centre, of Wereham House Hotel receive a gift from Inner Wheel President

Thetford (Breckland) Lioness Club

A cuddly toy tombola was held on the evening of the ‘Christmas Light-up’. A cuddly toy was given for each ticket drawn. £60.05p was raised on the evening.The popular soup and quiz evening was well attended and the “Grove Girls” were again the winner. In excess Don’t forget you can view every edition of the About of £250 was raised from the quiz, the raffle and the Thetford magazine on the internet for free. Just visit: sale of jewellery. The sale of our Christmas Novelties www.aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk has once again been a success, with, in excess of Youtocan also viewAdvert_Layout profiles of those1 involved in Made Measure 11/06/2016 08:13 £500 being raised. Grateful thanks to all our knitters compiling the magazine and much more info. and to those who have purchased the noveties.

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Thetford (Breckland) Lionesses meet on the 2nd and 4th Monday of the month at Kings Court. New members are welcome. For further information please contact Dorothy on 0845-8334764.

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Muscle Knots And How To Treat Them

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Muscle fibres run in different directions in our body and they are layered on top of each other in a kind of criss-cross pattern. This enables us to bend, stretch and twist with ease. These muscles are designed to be pliable, strong and stretched. If however, we sit for long periods of time, suffer from an injury, play repetitive sports, or become chronically dehydrated we are putting the same muscles under strain.

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Muscle fibres start to stick to each other and become adhered. This hard, lumpy feeling is a muscle knot, also called a tension knot. Chronic stress of the muscle cause micro- tearing of the muscles tissue, which creates a scar. Unfortunately, if this is left untreated the muscle tissue loses elasticity, the blood supply becomes restricted to the area causing muscle wastage.

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Massage is a great way to help keep muscles healthy and pliable and also oxygenated. It will help to break down the tension knots, so not only is it a relaxing treatment it can also be used as prevention. Important things to remember are: Keep moving, don’t sit for too long in same position putting stress on muscles. Exercise regularly. Drink plenty of water. Stress and lack of sleep are something we all need to improve on.

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Day In The Life Of A Make-up Artist Preparing For Panto

is created in order that they are on stage. It is not always glamourous.

Preparations begin early in the year to ensure making up the individual characters for our Thetford Pantomime are feasible.

But, you know what…I wouldn’t change it for the world! I get to lead and guide a team and my ideas and creations get to be seen on the big stage and get to be watched and enjoyed by hundreds of people. Now that’s the biggest job satisfaction! I am proud to have been involved as chief make-up artist for the past 4 years.

First stage is to have a production meeting with the show’s Director and producer to discuss the theme, cast members and ideas for costume hair and makeup. We work directly with the wardrobe department and hair stylist to ensure you are all working to create the same final look and that you are working with the same vision in mind. As chief make-up artist, I then create mood boards of ideas and inspiration based on my meeting with the Director. I then have a production meeting with my team known as the “ProTeam” so that we can then create face charts of make-up looks that we will then use backstage whilst making over each cast member on the day of the show(s). The face charts give a visual guide of the look, with makeup used, any add-ons such as fake lashes, jewels, glasses or fake beards, moustaches etc. It is the role of the make-up artist to ensure that all of these work together to create the final look. It’s important to take into account ingredients of make-up: Some people may be vegan and therefore will only wear certain make-up or could have allergies. Also, Panto is traditional for having men play women and vice versa. Children wearing make-up is a consideration - everyone going on stage has to wear make-up whether it’s a child or an adult, man or women. Often one person plays more than one character. You are more than “just a make-up artist”. When that person sits in your chair you have to have eyes and ears at the ready. Watching the rest of my team to ensure they are working to plan. Keeping an eye on the time, as we have to work to tight deadlines to ensure everyone

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Services at St Cuthbert’s

Sunday 8th January 10.30am Holy Communion

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Sunday 15th January 8am Holy Communion, 10.30am Morning Prayer Sunday 22nd January 10.30am Holy Communion Sunday 29th January 10.30am Holy Communion Sunday 5th February 8am Holy Communion, 10.30am All Age Worship, 6.30pm Choral Evensong. There will be a service of Holy Communion at 10.30am each Wednesday and Morning Prayer at 9am each Tuesday and Thursday.

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Thetford Society

of the bon bons and so the Christmas cracker was created. Today Tom Smiths crackers are still going strong and they are regularly supplied to the Royal family. Even the big man himself, Father Christmas aka Santa Claus was a product of the Victorian times. An amalgamation of old tales such as Old Father Time, the winter solstice, (which included ivy and mistletoe, explaining the green clothing) were well known across Northern Europe in the middle ages. The Turkish Bishop St Nicholas who wore red robes and was noted for his kind gestures towards the poor and needy was famous in many countries. St Nicholas’ popularity was revived when Victorian writers, poets and artist rediscovered the old stories and became interested in him. It is also around the Victorian era that his outfit became the red and white costume we all know and love today, although this was enhanced in the USA with poems such as “Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Clemency Moore. The red costume was never again to have any green trim after the Coca Cola adverts in the 1930’s. All in all we have much to be thankful to the Victorians for especially the enchanting time of the year we call Christmas.

December’s meeting began with the usual round-up of future social events. On Friday 13th January, Society members are invited to a Graduation Parade at RAF Honington followed by a tour of the RAF Regiment Museum. Later on in the year there will be a Battle Area Tour and hopefully next December there will be trip to the Thursford Christmas Spectacular. Our Chairman Stuart Wright told us that he had been in touch with Breckland and Norfolk Councils regarding the large number of faulty street lights within the town and hoped that a significant improvement would soon be seen. He also reported that he had sent a response regarding new street and car park signage as the date for the installation has been set for Easter time. December’s Guest Speaker: They say that Christmas comes earlier every year and it certainly did for the members of the Society who attend the December meeting, when Melissa Hawker from the Ancient House came to tell us all about a Victorian Christmas. Melissa told us how many of the items that we take for granted over the festive season, such as Christmas trees and cards were developed in the Victorian era. Some of the origins go back further than the 19th century, but it was the Royals and Aristocracy of the Victorian period who shaped these activities into the traditions we recognise today. Melissa also explained how further innovations such as Christmas crackers came to be. Confectioner and entrepreneur Tom Smith was trying to think of a unique way to market the wrapped sugared almonds he sold into something more exciting and profitable. After months of pondering a simple crackle of a log thrown onto a fire was enough to inspire him to put a snap paper within the wrapping

The Society’s next meeting will be at 7.30 pm on Tuesday 3rd January 2017 at the United Reform Church on Earls Street. The subject of the evening will be “Famous People of Diss” told by Basil Abbot. New members are always very welcome.

Thetford Rotary Club The Rotary Christmas collection has raised £933 this Year. We would like to thank the customers and staff of the Thetford Garden Centre and Roys for their generosity in raising this amount. We do like to support local groups and charities with our Christmas Collection and invite any to make a pitch for support to: thetfordrotary1@g-mail.com

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Thetford Garden and Allotment Club Gardening Notes - January For those who were lucky enough to get garden tokens for Christmas there is a lot of pleasure to be had from browsing at a garden centre. If you have the space and need some immediate winter colour, you could treat yourself to a dogwood with brightly coloured stems. Daphne with its strong fragrance could be a great choice if you have a sheltered spot near your house door. Mahonia is also very striking with lily-of the-valley scent coming from the sprays of bright yellow flowers but beware of its ferociously spiky leaves. As with all new plantings, take note of the height and width of the mature plant and how it looks out of season. If you had mistletoe hanging up as part of your Christmas decorations, you could try growing your own. Ideally you would keep the berries in a light cold place till February for the best chance of success but if I did that I wouldn’t remember them till June. You need an apple tree to act as host and all you do is smear the berries on 2-3 cm wide branches – the seeds are surrounded by a sticky substance which will hold them in place. There is no benefit in finding a crack or making a cut. The success rate is low so use a lot of berries. Even if little plants start to grow you will need a male and female plant to get any fruit and it will take some years. No wonder a bunch costs so much!

water while others need to be kept out of the sun and in a cool corner. If you didn’t get any indoor bulbs or plants as a gift, perhaps you can snap up a bargain in the January sales. A living plant with fresh green leaves and coloured flowers and scent as a bonus can cheer the day up through the dark and cold of January. This is the time of year when you are rewarded if you gave over land to slow growing vegetables like parsnips and leeks, kale and brussels sprouts. Parsnips are lovely and sweet now that they have been well-frosted. If you pick brussels from the base, new sprouts go on developing at the top of the plant. As the season draws to an end taking off the whole of the top (and using it like spring cabbage) encourages the final sprouts to bulk up. Our club meeting this month is more of a Winter Feast and Social event. The charge is £5 for the evening which starts at 7.30 in the URC on Thursday 26th January. BYO if you fancy beer or wine. Any contributions to the feast will be welcome – let Brian know what you plan to bring on bgf6777@gmail.com so that we have a good balance. You will be able to renew (or take out) membership on the night - £6.50 per person or £10.00 for a couple – as the yearbook should be available then. Best wishes for another happy year’s gardening in 2017. Sue Pilgrim

There is still time to deal with the winter pruning of apples and pears (but not plums) and a severe trim to grape vines will encourage the growth of fruiting shoots. Even if you do not aim to get edible fruit, a vine can be a great addition to a garden, clothing a wall or fence with luxuriant stems and richly coloured leaves; trained over a pergola, a vine can provide shade on a summer day and an ideal location for eating outside. (That seems rather a distant image at the moment.) Vines are late to come into leaf so do not despair of the rather dead looking appearance in March; once the buds break, growth can be rampant. Once the Christmas decorations are put away, the plants you were given over Christmas will stand out. Have a look at any instructions on the label as some require very little Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

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Gutters cleaned out with "skyvac", fascia, bargeboards and outside of gutters and windows cleaned using ladderless "stream-a-clean" system. Using state of the art van mounted cleaning machine, far more powerful and efficient than any portable machine with reduced drying times and superior clean. Cleaning in Powerclean now clean driveways & patios. Have your brickweave drive Thetford for cleaned, resanded & sealed to look like new. 17 years

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Come and See the New Pulp Exhibition! Opening on December 17th, our new exhibition explores the story of Thetford pulp ware, a distinctive and unique local industry, and the people who worked there. Thetford pulp ware was made in the town’s Pulp Works from 1879 until the 1950s. In many ways a green industry it used power from the river to pulp up recycled materials such as old jute bags to make useful articles for the home, for shops and for industry. Decorated with a variety of colourful paint finishes, these products were lightweight, durable and waterproof. They were used for all sorts of purposes including washing-up bowls, baby baths and buckets. During WW2 Churchill’s secret documents were brought under armed guard to Thetford’s Pulp Mill. There they were then transformed into items such as baby baths or fuel tanks for fighter planes. Maybe locked inside that baby bath was a top secret military command from Winston Churchill? During the war, pulp ware was also made into decoys to fool the enemy and the fake pulp soldiers became known as the Thetford Army. From the start the company made safety helmets. In an early catalogue, there is a testimonial from a man who unfortunately had a weight of half a hundredweight (50kg) dropped from four feet Ancient House onto his head. Luckily he was wearing a pulp Winter Opening: ware helmet and although the helmet had to be Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm forcibly removed the man lived to tell the tale. Telephone: 01842 752599 Even royalty wore Thetford pulp ware and on display is a photograph of George V (when he Admission Fees was the Prince of Wales) wearing a pulp hard Adults £4.20 Conc £4.00 helmet. In fact the company has continued Child £3.20 making helmets right through the last century Family 1 Adult £10.50 and after a change of names from the Patent Family 2 Adults £14.30 Pulp Manufacturing Company Ltd, the company continued business in Thetford as Centurion Free admission: Museum Pass Holders, Safety Products. Museum Curator Oliver Bone Friends of Thetford Museum, Children’s said: “I am delighted that we have a chance to University, MA & Art Fund members, 1 carer for each registered disabled display a selection from the museum’s colourful visitor, Under 4s collection of Thetford pulp ware. I look forward to all the activities at the Museum in 2017 with Pop in for £1—everyday one hour pulp as a theme.” A new range of pulp ware before closing postcards will be on sale in the museum shop. Find us on twitter: @ancienthousemus For more exhibition information visit Facebook: /ancienthousemuseum www.museums.norfolk.gov/AncientHouse Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

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

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saying that you want as many “Promoters” as possible for your business, while avoiding “Detractors”. In fact, the most efficient way to work out your company’s potential to grow is to calculate the NPS score, which is the percentage of customers who are “Promoters” subtracted by the percentage who are “Detractors”. This is a true measure of how well you are doing and going above and beyond the expected levels of service.

The Ultimate Question If you have a business, it’s likely you want it to grow and ultimately become more profitable. Interestingly, by asking one powerful question you can gain real insight into your success, and gain a competitive advantage in 2017.

Remember feedback is a gift, a free one at that. The only thing to do now recognise the power of the ‘ultimate question’ and start asking it in 2017

The ‘ultimate question’ you want to ask your customers (on a 0 - 10 scale) is “How likely is it you would recommend us to a friend?” This is a powerful question, great and successful companies create social capital, unlike companies that might be lacking in certain areas. By impressing one person, you potentially get a handful of their closest friends registering to buy from you. Insult and underperform, and many of them will defect to your competitor. Many defectors will even discourage their friends to do business with poor performing companies, this is why the question is vital.

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The question is easy for customers to understand and answer. It is quick, so you can gather results fast especially if using digital online tools like Survey Monkey. Bain and Co. created the system referred to as Net Promoter Scores (NPS).The NPS system allows you to divide customers into three categories; “Promoters”, “Passives”, and “Detractors”.

Contact Colin Chamberlain at our Thetford office

01842 755032

Customers who score 9-10 are categorized as “Promoters“. They are satisfied and likely to recommend your business to family and friends. Those scoring 7-8 are “Passives”. These customers are normally 50% less satisfied than “Promoters” and will defect if a competitor offers a better deal. “Detractors”, with a score of 0-6, are unhappy and can count for up to 80% of negative word of mouth. This causes all sorts of issues to your company’s reputation. It goes without

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For a FREE no obligation initial consultation call Tracy for a professional, reliable service with over 20 years experience. tracy@brecklandaccountancy.co.uk Please mention the About Thetford Magazine when responding to advertisements

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January 2017 Thetford Time Travellers A friendly group for older people Get together to reminisce and share memories of Thetford’s past over a cup of tea. Learn how to create a memory scrapbook and contribute to a community archive of local stories. Meets fortnightly between 10.30am – 12 noon on Wednesdays- dates are 4th & 18th January. The group is free and is open to everybody, including friends and carers. For further information please contact Rachel Willis on 01603 774781 or rachel.willis@norfolk.gov.uk

Baby Bounce & Rhyme Time Songs & Rhymes for babies and toddlers and their parents/carers. 10.30am – 11.00am at Thetford Library Meets every Monday, excluding Bank Holidays No need to book for these fun, free sessions! Story Time Activities with Sure Start – on Wednesdays, 10.00am – 10.45am. These fun sessions with Sure Start in the library are free and are held in the library during term time. No need to book, just turn up on the day! For further information please contact Sure Start on 01842 766438

Volunteer Fayre On Thursday 12th January, 10am – 12 noon a volunteer fayre will take place in the library. We have several exciting volunteer roles we want to fill, such as delivering the RVS Home Library Service as we have a waiting list of people needing this service; English Exchange volunteers and other volunteering roles. Why not pop in and find out what we can offer!

Thetford Audio Book Club with NNAB Are you visually impaired? Come and enjoy audio books with people who understand. Next meeting will be at Thetford Library on Friday January 13th, 10.30 am -12.00 noon. To find out more please call Mark or Elaine: 01603 629558 or email: marksmith@nnab.co.uk

Children’s Afternoon Storytime Come along to Thetford Library for an afternoon of fun storytelling! Every Thursday during term time, 2.00pm -2.45pm. Suitable for pre-school children. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Thetford Reading Group The January meeting is on Friday 27th starting at 2.30pm.

Thetford Library Friends Are you interested in becoming part of a new group who: Develop ideas for local activities, plan and hold fundraising activities, library sales, community events, Promote the library and its services Ask at the library about joining a new community group to support Thetford Library.

Opening hours at Thetford Library Monday: 8.30am –5.30pm Tuesday: 8.30am –5.30pm Wednesday: 8.30am – 1pm Thursday: 8.30am – 5.30pm Friday: 8.30am – 7pm Saturday: 9am – 1pm

Zentangle Art Club Meets every Tuesday, 2.00pm – 4.00pm in the library. No drawing experience or skills needed. A mindful way to create your own art.

Where to find us Thetford Library, Raymond Street, Thetford IP24 2EA. Telephone: 01842 752048 e-mail: thetford.lib@norfolk.gov.uk www.twitter.com/NorfolkLibs

Thetford Library Local History Group A chance to find out about the library’s local history collections. Will meet on the third Friday of each month at Thetford Library, 10.15am – 11.45am. Next meeting: Friday 20th January.

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www.randalecare.co.uk Norwich Road, Kilverstone, IP24 2RF

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Home Care

Are you seeking a Personal Care service to enable you to remain comfortably in your own home? Randale Care are rapidly gaining a reputation for delivering exceptional personal care in and around Thetford. Contact our Personal Care team to arrange a visit on 01842760337 or Rachel on 07802 724382.

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THE

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Death, Delusion, Dementia and Deceit A day in the life of a Private Client Solicitor When I am asked what area of law I specialise in, I have spent years trying to have a clever answer encompassing within one line precisely what I do. The usual definition is Private Client but only other lawyers will understand that term. If I say Wills, Trust and Probate I can see people’s eyes glazing over. When I mention that I handle peoples’ matters by being a Deputy or Attorney, people then think I am a financial advisor. So now if the situation is suitable, I say that I deal with death, delusion, dementia and deceit. Granted that sounds somewhat irreverent but it is an apt description of what my day and working life involves.

over the years who will have some insight and family knowledge but who will also be firm but fair handed should the occasion need it. This brings me on to delusion. It is quite apparent from dealing with the Administration of Estates and obtaining probate that potential beneficiaries sometimes have higher expectations of what they will be left under a Will than the actual reality. All too frequently I am contacted by remoter family relatives enquiring as to what they might have been left under someone’s Will, quite often even when they have not seen that family member for 30 years plus.

So how do these four “D’s” feature in my daily working life? Death is the uniting factor that none of us can avoid but we can make provision for our family on our passing by making a Will. I hear a lot of supposed reasons for not making Wills from “I don’t have anything”, “my wife/ husband will get it all anyway”, “it’s too depressing” and I still encounter people who feel that making a Will will hasten their departure from this world. My involvement in drawing up Wills for individuals is to ensure that your hard earned assets do go to the people you love, care for and wish to benefit. If you do not make a Will, it still surprises people who actually inherit the assets, especially if you are not married to a partner. I have seen too many times the consequences of not making a Will where the person you wish to inherit is not covered by the Intestacy Rules which apply an order of who receives assets when no Will is in existence. A very common scenario is where co-habitees have adult children from previous relationships. If one of them dies and the assets are just in the sole name then all their assets will pass to their children not their partner. This could cause a very real and immediate problem to the surviving partner of losing their home and money. A Will could have changed all this and provisions could have been made both for the partner and the adult children. It is therefore very important that when you do make a Will, consider the different needs of the various people within your family and how you can be as fair as possible when there can be competing interests. It is also the time to think about whether any of your beneficiaries need protection under a Will in which case a straight forward Trust could be involved to protect them from their own vulnerabilities. It is also important to appoint executors who will look after your wishes; you are the person who knows your family better than anyone else and therefore it should be you who is choosing who will administer and look after your estate so as to ensure that family disagreements are kept to a minimum. If you feel that no one in the family is the right person for the job then you need to consider appointing a professional, either a family solicitor or an accountant who has dealt with the family

When I am asked what area of law I specialise in, I have spent years trying to have a clever answer encompassing within one line precisely what I do. It is therefore helpful when you are dealing with a Will or making changes to a Will, to have letters addressed to both the executors and to the beneficiaries. This can explain why someone is not included in a Will, the history of the family and if the Deceased has cut out an individual who was financially dependent on them and the reasons why. The latter is most important as there are groups of beneficiaries who can make a claim against someone’s estate if they feel that they have not been adequately provided for. If you are considering this then seeking advice is essential and a letter even more so, so that the administration of the estate can be as smooth as possible. One of the most satisfying parts of my job is acting as a Deputy or an Attorney for those who are cruelly affected by dementia and either do not have any family or whose family members are frail and elderly themselves to help them with their financial matters. When I have been appointed as Attorney whilst they still have mental capacity then I will have known them and asked them details of how and where they would wish to live in the future, what sort of assistance they would like to be given should they lose mental capacity and how they would like their finances to be handled. It is very sad if this day does arrive, but to be able to assist a client when they do not have anyone else to stand in their shoes and look after their financial and health matters gives

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me a great sense of pride. Similarly if I am appointed as a Deputy by the Court of Protection, where there is no other family members available, it is again a very rewarding position to be that person’s champion. This can involve sorting out the correct residential care for them, continuing to check they are being looked after in the home, liaising with social/healthcare workers and others to make sure that they receive all the assistance and extra help they may require. It also means being financially responsible for their money and making sure and taking advice to ensure that their money will last as long as possible to keep them in their chosen home. It also means visiting them, talking with them and making sure that they have the clothes that they like and need and any other items which may provide the day to day stimulation to make their end of days care as comfortable as possible. Sadly part of my daily legal life in dealing with people’s affairs brings me into contact with various people who have seen fit to take financial advantage of either their own family members or others. All too often I encounter people who feel that it is acceptable to use Mum or Dad’s credit card or debit card as they know the pin number to not only look after their parent’s finances but also to benefit themselves. In these circumstances I have to draw on my own diplomatic skills to point out that the position of being an attorney is one of trust and the overwhelming point is to ensure that the person who has given the power of attorney to someone is looked after, not the actual Attorney. In some cases when the parent dies adjustments do have to be made to the amount such a child receives under a Will. This is where it is vital to seek advice before entering into a Lasting Power of Attorney to make sure that you have chosen the right person from your family to be an Attorney and also that before the Attorney takes on the appointment that they understand the limitation on how they can deal with that person’s money. So in conclusion as solicitors, we do not only assist with the making of legal documents such as Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney, we also take a practical approach of encouraging the writing of letters to family and Executors so as to explain the reasons for decisions taken. These letters are your way of speaking when you no longer have a voice, either through lost mental capacity or on your passing. This way we can deal with death or dementia and hopefully side step any problems with delusion or deceit. For more information on Wills, Probate, Lasting Powers of Attorney please contact:

Fiona Ashmead on 01284 715675 fiona.ashmead@rudlings-wakelam.co.uk

RudlingsWakelam Solicitors

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Cats Needing Homes

The Festival of Winter Walks

At Breckland Cats Protection we have several adult cats in our care who have been with us for some time. They would like nothing better than a loving forever home where they can curl up with a family this winter.

Our popular ‘Festival of Winter Walks’ is our seasonal gift to people in Thetford. Everyone can enjoy the wonders of a winter walk. Our walks during the festival are free, fun, friendly and open to everyone, so wrap up warm and join us as we enjoy the season the way we know best, on our feet. Join us on one of the walks listed below. No need to book, just turn up on the day about 10 minutes before the start time of the walk. If you would like further information please email: thetford@burystedmundsramblers.org.uk Or, call 01842 845508. The walks are led by experienced volunteer leaders and are organised by the Bury St Edmunds and Mid-Norfolk Ramblers groups.

Charlie (above left) is a beautiful 3 year old tabby who has been neutered, micro-chipped and vaccinated. He is a handsome boy who loves people and likes nothing more than to curl up on a nice warm armchair. He would suit any family with teenage children, or an older couple who are at home most of the time. He must be the only animal in the family and would make a terrific companion. Willow (above right ) is a young, healthy, 13 year old black and white cat who has a lovely temperament and would make an ideal companion for someone who is on their own as she loves her home comforts. Sadly her previous owner died and left her all alone in the world. She is neutered, and has now been vaccinated and micro-chipped and after being checked over by our vet, she has no health problems. If she had a warm and loving home this winter, she would be purr forever! Both these cats come with 4 weeks free pet insurance and their adoption fee is £50 each which helps towards our large vet bills. If you can offer either cat a loving home, please call Ann on 01953 681092. If you need any help, advice or assistance with the cost of neutering your cat, please call us on 01842 810018, or go to our website cats.org.uk/breckland to see the other cats currently in our care.

Rattlesden. (5 or 9 miles) - Mon 2 January 2017 10:00 Starts at 10:00: IP30 0RT, TL980590. Park in Sports Pavilion car park. Morning circular walk via Shelland with option of continuing on to afternoon walk. Picnic with pub drinks available. Group: Bury St Edmunds East Wretham Nature Reserve Walk - Tue 3 January 2017 10:00 - 3.5 miles/5.6 km . Starts at 10:00: East Wretham Nature Reserve Car Park on A1075 (IP24 1RU, TL917887). Group: Mid-Norfolk. Rishbeth Wood/Warren Lodge - Fri 6 January 2017 10:00 - 4 miles/6.4 km. Starts at 10:00: WARREN LODGE (Thetford B1107) (IP24 1QN, TL842840) Group: Mid-Norfolk. Three Kings Walk Fornham All Saints - Fri 6 January 2017 10:00 - 3.5 miles/5.6 km. Starts at 10:00: (IP28 6LA, TL835673) Park at the Three Kings for leisurely paced circular walk. Lunch opportunities at pub. Group: Bury St Edmunds. Circular walk West Stow - Sat 7 January 2017 10:00 - 12 miles/19.3 km. Starts at 10:00: (IP28 6HA, TL815715).

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The Thetford based Kuk Sool Won™ Korean martial arts school was lucky enough recently to host the Grandmaster In Hyuk Suh (formally titled Kuk Sa Nim) who officially opened the school three years after its modest beginnings. Students also got to experience their first seminar, with other visiting high-ranking masters, learning new skills and meeting some of the wider Kuk Sool Won™ family.

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Kuk Sa Nim’s visit is an honour because of his status in the martial arts World. He first coined and trademarked the phrase “Kuk Sool” in 1958 and its meaning, National (Korean) martial art, goes a long way to explaining what its schools teach. Whilst many Korean martial arts and their study were suppressed by the Japanese occupation of Korea, Kuk Sa Nim learned in secret from his grandfather Myung Duk Suh. Following the death of his grandfather Kuk Sa Nim was gifted letters of introduction to masters who were dotted around Korea in hiding, and so his studies continued.

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It was in this way that Kuk Sa Nim learned martial arts techniques covering the entire scope of the Korean arsenal which otherwise might have been lost (Koreans were not big on writing things down, preferring a direct teaching lineage, instructor to student, often father to son!). This is why Kuk Sool can truly be considered the National martial art of Korea (Won simply means association) and why its students enjoy such a variety of skills. The seminar saw twenty five students complete sessions in pressure points with ninth dahn Texas based master Barry Harmon, new weapons techniques and specialist kicking drills. The school was left energised and excited about next year’s visit.

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Thetford Dolphins

Thetford Town Football Club

Thetford Dolphins swimmers were once again in brilliant form for round 1 of the Norfolk Junior League and despite 5 disqualifications managed to claim 1st place from rivals Dereham by 8 points. Winning Dolphins were Billie-Jordan Butler 25m free (Pb), Archie King 50m back (Pb)& 50m free, Kacie Cooper 50m back (Pb), Harry Fasey 50m breast, Alice Fasey 50m free & 50m breast, Louis James 50m fly, 4x25m boys medley relay of Ben Buckley, Harry Fasey, Louis James & Thomas Ridding, 4x25m mixed medley relay of Kacie Cooper, Aimee Dickerson, Harry Fasey & Louis James, 4x25m freestyle relay of Archie King, Thomas Ridding, Ben Buckley & Harry Fasey and the mixed 8x25m freestyle relay. Personal bests achieved by Thomas Ridding, Mariesha Blackwell-Florentin, Ben Buckley, Eleanor Brown, Aimee Dickerson, Francesca Long, Lucy Whitehead, James Foot and Ella Darton. Super swimming, Dolphins.

Match fixtures for January & February 2017 02.01.17 Thetford Town V. Fakenham Town 07.01.17 Haverhill Rovers V. Thetford Town 14.01.17 Thetford Town V. Brantham Athletic 21.01.17 Thetford Town V. Saffron Walden Town 28.01.17 Fakenham Town V. Thetford Town 04.02.17 Thetford Town V. Stanway Rovers 11.02.17 Thetford Town V. Felixstowe and Walton 25.02.17 Thetford Town V. FC Clacton 04.03.17 Wivenhoe Town V. Thetford Town All games are at 3pm. Please support your local club and attend matches if you are able to. If you’re involved in a local sports group and would like to be featured in the About Thetford magazine then please contact Karen via: karen@aboutthetfordmagazine.co.uk The standard deadline for receipt of material to be used is the 15th of the month for inclusion in the following month’s edition

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Thetford Dolphins members’ participating in Norfolk Junior League

Thetford Dolphins swimming club hosted the Mark Davis Memorial Gala held at Thetford Waterworld and after a close fought battle managed to edge out Diss by 9 points to claim the trophy. 1st places were achieved by Amie Copp 100m breast, Benjamin Flood 50m free (Pb), Aimee Dickerson 50m breast (Pb), Alfie King 100m free, Alice Fasey 50m & 100m breast, Daniel Penny 50m fly, Archie King 50m back (Pb), Louis James 50m free, Ben Buckley 50m breast (Pb), 4x50m medley relay of Archie King, Benjamin Flood, Daniel Penny & Louis James and the same quartet teamed up to win the 4x50m freestyle relay. Personal bests went to Macaulay Harvey, Katharine Mold, Jacob Wright, Louis James, Francesca Long, Billie-Jordan Butler, Megan Worsnop, Isaac Clark, Harry Fasey and Mariesha BlackwellFlorentin. Well done Dolphins.

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