Places&Faces 138 - May 2022

WIN GREAT

Sustainable FASHION

What's on:

PAGES 25 & 27

BOSH! on a budget

6

Healthy recipes

FR EE

Issue No: 138 | May 2022

Weeks to a

Healthier you

Slow Livıng

Nor folk & Suf folk w w w. p l a c e s a n d fa c e s .c o.u k

2 4

COMPETITIONS

Jubilee preview

SPRING/SUMMER COLLECTION Instore and online now

We know style is everlasting.

It is curating a collection of clothing which makes the dressing for all your adventures simpler. It is investing in quality which fits well and looks good.

FA S H I O N Many brands including: ALLSAINTS FRNCH INDI & COLD JIGSAW NEW LAUR EN R ALPH LAUR EN MINT VELVET OUI R EISS SANDWICH SCOTCH & SODA THOUGHT WEEK END MA X MAR A WHISTLES

AC C E S S O R I E S Many brands including: COACH K ATE SPADE LONGCHA MP MARK BERG MATT & NAT MICHA EL KORS R ADLEY LAUR EN R ALPH LAUR EN TED BAK ER

Welcome As

we approach the end of spring and head into the summer months we can spend more time enjoying the outdoors. If you are lucky enough to have a nice garden then this is the time to be able to enjoy a cuppa in the cool light evenings. However we must not forget about the wonderful places we can enjoy throughout East Anglia; beaches, countryside and of course our favourite beer gardens. It is when we are taking time out in these outdoor spaces that we are reminded of the importance of taking things at a slower pace.

In this issue we explore slow living and how this can enhance our lives for the better. Taking things at a more measured and methodical pace can certainly enhance our everyday. Further to this we can see how we effect the world around us with the choices we make and how we consume the produce in our day to day lives. Fast fashion and fast food are neither good for us or the environment. Sustainably and ethically sourced goods will certainly enhance our environment and our communities.

On page 40 we look at how we can do this, even if it is a little at a time. Also on page 43 we see how Aylsham is a haven for slow food and on page 49 Polly Coleman shows us how fashion doesn’t have to be fast. So this month let’s all try to take it… slow.

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2 GREAT COMPETITIONS This month we have some more top prizes for you win. Head to page 25 to win tickets to three fantastic events at Earlham Park, Norwich. These will certainly be nights to remember and a great way to kick off your summer.

If you would rather relax with a good book then head to page 27 where you can win a whole set of classic Sherlock Holmes novels, the worlds greatest detective is bound to keep you entertained. @PlacesandFacesMagazines

Andrew Hirst EDITOR

@PlacesandFaces @PlacesandFaces

CONTRIBUTORS: Andrew Hirst, Jade Soanes, Mel Cook, Polly Coleman, Rachel Gilbert, Chantel Pipe, Tom Strowlger, Adam Gunton, Emily Sparkes, Sarah Hardy, Niobe Shaw, Francesca Armour-Chelu ADVERTISING SALES Hannah Keeble T: 01502 725825 E: hannah.keeble@micropress.co.uk

Clare McCauley T: 01502 725878 E: clare.mccauley@micropress.co.uk

Sinead Taylor T: 01502 725865 E: sinead.taylor@micropress.co.uk

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Andrew Hirst T: 01502 725860 E: andrew.hirst@micropress.co.uk

Mark Shreeve T: 01502 725839 E: mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk

Jade Soanes T: 01502 725840 E: jade.soanes@micropress.co.uk

Polly Coleman T: 01502 725800 E: polly.coleman@micropress.co.uk

w w w . p l a c e s a n d f a c e s . c o . u k Published by COUNTRYWIDE PUBLICATIONS

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COMPETITION - TERMS & CONDITIONS The competition is open to residents of the United Kingdom aged 18 years or over except employees of Micropress Printers Ltd and their close relatives and anyone otherwise connected with the organisation or judging of the competition. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition. Only one entry will be accepted per person. No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason. The prize is as stated and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. The prizes are not transferable. Prizes are subject to availability and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice. Winners will be chosen at random, from all entries received. The winner will be notified by email, telephone or social media. If the winner cannot be contacted or does not claim the prize within 1 month of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.

ICONIC

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Norwich 01603 626750 | Swaffham 01760 724777 | Diss 01379 642598

CONTENTS

55

28

58 9

What's on

13 Suffolk Show 17 Wild Oak Workshop 19 Getting back to nature 21 Jubilee preview 22 Visit Norwich 25 Competition: Earlham Park Norwich

39

25

27 Competition: Sherlock Holmes 28 Inspiring women: Sarah Cannell 31 Gourmet gossip 33 The One 40 Slow Living 43 Slow food

40 13

35

46 All things baby 49 Fashion 55 Fitness 58 The Angle 63 Cuckoo Lodge 65 Gardening with Tom 66 Secret Beauty RECIPES ON PAGES 34, 35, 37, 38, 39 & 56

w w w.

b r a d l e y h a t c h. c o m

bradley

hatch jewellers

What's on

IN

with Adam Gunton

Out&About

?

Staying

Top Gun: Maverick Released: 27 May Well, take my breath away, Top Gun is back!

Tom Cruise returns as Maverick, one of the Navy’s top aviators. He’s brought in by his old competitor, Iceman, to train the best new pilots for a daring mission. But one of these pilots is the son of his former wingman, Goose, who met his untimely fate in the original film. Goose’s son is holding some serious resentment towards Maverick, blaming him for his father’s death. Can Maverick finally grow up a little to push these pilots to be the best they could possibly be? Expect breath-taking flight sequences and if there’s not another scene where they play volleyball on the beach, I think we’ll all be disappointed.

at the

movies

The Bob’s Burgers Movie Released: 27 May

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Released: 5 May Benedict Cumberbatch is back as the man with the magic in Marvel and he’s still got that dodgy American accent.

Directed by Sam Raimi (a master of classic horror and director of the Tobey Maguire Spider-Man films) Multiverse of Madness sees Doctor Stephen Strange being caught up by the consequences of messing with multiple universes.

Returning alongside Strange are fan favourites Wong (Benedict Wong) and the Scarlet Witch herself, Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen). There’s rumours of all sorts of cameos and characters in this film so it’s going to be a big one for the Marvel fans.

The burger-flipping family of the Belchers hit the big screen for their first film. Bob’s luck continues on its terrible streak as a sinkhole forms in front of their restaurant, putting the business on the edge of closing and tumbling into the abyss. While Bob and his wife Linda try to save the restaurant from shutting down, the children Tina, Gene and Louise embark on a mystery that could be the family’s salvation. The film is sure to have the same quick wit that show has always had. Bob’s Burgers has always proved that animation for adults doesn’t have to be rude for the sake of it. It can have heart, zany characters, jokes and troubles that we can all relate to.

Men Released: 20 May Alex Garland, director of the brilliant Ex Machina and Annihilation bring us this tale of terror from the excellent studio A24. Harper (played by Jessie Buckley) takes a holiday in the English countryside after the death of her ex-husband. She soon finds her holiday less than relaxing as she feels someone is stalking her and all the men in the village are decidedly unhelpful and extra creepy. Sounds like a standard horror film premise, right? Well, the interesting thing is that all the men in the village are played by the same person, Rory Kinnear (who starred in the recent Bond films).

Based on Garland’s previous works, this film is sure to linger with you for a while to come.

Did you know?

In the Star Wars films, Mace Windu is the only Jedi to have a purple lightsaber. The actor playing Windu, Samuel L. Jackson wanted his blade to be purple because he was “the second baddest Jedi in the universe” and so he could find himself amongst all the other Jedi in a big battle scene!

09

Out&About

?

Photo: Channel 4 / Peter Marley

What's on Staying

Derry Girls

IN

with Adam Gunton

what's on the Telly

Stranger Things Season 4 Volume 1 Netflix, 27 May The show with one of the best casts around is finally back. Things are getting stranger in Stranger Things. Seems obvious but trust me, it’s stranger than you could realise. The Upside Down is going downside-up-out. Meaning, the monsters that have been fighting their way into Hawkins over the past three seasons are no longer holding back. A powerless Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) feels helpless to stop the impending doom but those plucky kids along with Joyce Byers and Jim Hopper (who’s in Russia?!) will find a way to beat the Demogorgons, the Mind Flayers and whatever else the Upside Down can throw at them. Hopefully we’ll get some fun eighties vibes in amongst all the monsters and destruction.

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Disney+, 27 May Hello there! General Kenobi is back. Fan favourite Ewan McGregor returns as the Jedi Master. He was certainly one of the best things to come out of the over-all disappointing prequel trilogy. The series takes place between the third and fourth episodes of Star Wars, where Obi-Wan is protecting a young Luke Skywalker from a distance on the desert planet Tatooine. Meanwhile, Darth Vader (played by returning actor Hayden Christensen) is sending out Inquisitors to hunt and kill hiding Jedi. We know how the story of Kenobi and Vader ends but this limited series will fill in the lost time and give us an exciting rematch between Jedi Knight and Sith Lord, master and apprentice, brother and brother.

Photo: Disney+/ Twentieth Century Fox/Lucasfilm

Photo: Netflix

Star Wars: Obi-Wan Kenobi

Photo: Sky Atlantic

All4, Out Now Slowed down by the pandemic, the Derry Girls (and the wee English fella) are back for their third and final series. If you haven’t seen this show, then you need to do yourself a favour and fix that. The show

by Lisa McGee follows a group of young people growing up in Derry, Ireland during the troubles in the nineties. You’d think they’d be living in worry but they’re busy dealing with their families, their Catholic school run by the hilarious Sister Michael and all the trials and tribulations of being a teenager. The cast is perfect and they’re all so incredibly funny and it is both well-written and performed. The final series is set during the tail-end of the troubles as the teenagers finish sitting their GCSEs and start thinking about the future.

The Time Traveller’s Wife Sky Atlantic, 27 May You may have seen the 2009 film starring Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams but this is a new television series based on the novel by Audrey Niffenegger.

Claire (Rose Leslie from Game Of Thrones) and Henry (Theo James) have the perfect marriage. Apart from the fact that Henry is a time traveller and will disappear without notice, leaving a pile of clothes where he was. Claire is left wondering where and when he is, hoping that he’s safe and that he finds his way back to her. Can their relationship stand the literal test of time?

The show is brought to us by Steven Moffat, previous showrunner of Doctor Who during the Matt Smith era and BBC’s Sherlock so you know it’s going to be more than you expect.

Did you know?

Friends wasn’t always going to be called Friends? Some working titles were were Insomnia Café, Friends Like Us, and Six of One, before everyone settled on Friends.

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What's on

out

Suffolk

Show

From food to fashion: Celebrating our local stars at the Suffolk Show

After

a two-year hiatus during the pandemic, the Suffolk Show is officially back on Tuesday 31 May and Wednesday 1 June, and it promises to be the biggest and best celebration of our wonderful county.

The Show has a packed schedule of exciting Ring displays, a brand-new exhibit celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, and a whole host of fun, interactive games and have-a-go activities to keep the whole family entertained in the Farm Discovery Zone, Sports Zone, Military Zone and Wildlife Area.

From farming and livestock to fashion and flowers, the Show shines a light on the best of Suffolk, but it also offers a huge platform for independent brands, artisan makers, local artists and food producers, to gather together and showcase their talents with us all.

In a time when people want to shop consciously and support more independent businesses, the Suffolk Show is a great starting point for discovering your new local favourites. As our county’s biggest pop-up shopping event, there’s something to see around every corner! Here are the top shopping hotspots to find around the Showground:

ADNAMS FOOD & DRINK EXPERIENCE A foodie’s heaven! This is the place to sample and stock up on artisan food and drink made by high-quality local producers. Sizzling sausages, savoury pies, fudge, handmade chutneys, award-winning ales and much more, the marquee is packed with over 80 different trade stands with something to suit every taste. To save carrying your goodies around all day, buy early and collect before you go home.

DUMMETT COPP FIFTH AVENUE The Suffolk Show’s very own fashion thoroughfare, Dummett Copp Fifth Avenue is a boutique collection of our region’s best local fashion brands and up-and-coming designers. Follow the pink carpet for unique clothing styles, traditional country fashions, handmade jewellery, and exclusive accessories that you won’t find on the high street.

Look out for celebrity favourite Emily Mortimer Jewellery, Christiane Millinery for exquisite hats, and Tilley and Grace for their range of functional stylish clothing and scarves.

HOPKINS HOMES ART EXHIBITION Here you can enjoy browsing the brilliant paintings, photography and sculptures created by talented local artists, or even purchase your very own show-stopping centrepiece to take home. The Hopkins Homes Art Exhibition is a varied gallery with many special one-off pieces to admire, and some artists will be painting live on site, ready for visitors to meet and greet.

RURAL CRAFTS From alpaca shawls to wooden toys, the Rural Crafts area has it all. You can discover your own passion for crafting and meet an array of local craft businesses who lovingly make their own souvenirs and gifts by hand.

BEST OF SUFFOLK LIFESTYLE PAVILION The Lifestyle Pavilion, sponsored by Best of Suffolk, is stocked with the finest local furniture, haberdashery, homeware, and luxurious interior design. If you’re considering a home renovation project, or in need of some inspiration, the Best of Suffolk Lifestyle Pavilion is a shining example of quality craftsmanship, from cushions to kitchen worktops, all available from businesses here in East Anglia.

GLASSWELLS FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW The final stop on our shopping spree is the peaceful Flower and Garden Show which offers dazzling floral displays to admire, alongside top-quality plants and gardening supplies from local nurseries. It’s also an unmissable opportunity to ask for gardening advice and plant suggestions from the region’s horticultural experts.

The Suffolk Show 2022 is organised by the Suffolk Agricultural Association, a charity which aims to educate the next generation on the importance of food and farming in our county.

Early-bird tickets for the Suffolk Show are £26.50 per adult (tickets will be £28.50 per adult if purchased after 21 May and £30 per adult on the gate) while young people between 15 to 18 are £7.50. Children under 15 years are free, and car parking is also free this year so visitors can spend less time at the gate and more time enjoying all that the Show has to offer.

To find out more or to book your tickets, visit www.suffolkshow.co.uk

13

Out&About

?

Going

What will you discover?

Get closer to Nature

pensthorpe.com Fakenham, NR21 0LN

Indoor Play

01328 851465

Going

3-7 May, Norwich Theatre Royal The National Theatre’s Olivier and Tony Award-winning production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time returns to Norwich. Director Marianne Elliott’s ‘life-affirming and unmissable’ (Time) smash hit production brings Mark Haddon’s bestselling novel to thrilling life on stage.

Fifteen-year-old Christopher has an extraordinary brain. He is exceptional at maths, while everyday life presents some barriers. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched and he distrusts strangers.

When he falls under suspicion for killing his neighbour’s dog, it takes him on a journey that upturns his world.

out

www.norwichtheatre.org

Photo: Jemima Young

Norfolk & Norwich Festival 13-29 May, Various Norwich The wide-ranging ‘Festival 250’ programme for 2022 revisits seminal works premiered at the Festival as well as introducing 18 new commissions.

Installations, exhibitions, gigs, cabaret, circus and even giant dominoes will be presented on beaches, in churches, at pop-up venues, chapels, art centres, in car parks and through the streets across the county from King’s Lynn, Great Yarmouth to Diss and Sheringham and throughout Norwich.

Festival Gardens will be a place to eat, drink and gather for the duration, with al fresco performances from local artists as well as international performances in the Adnams Spiegeltent.

www.nnfestival.org.uk

Kate Rusby 21 May, 7.30pm Kate Rusby is often hailed as the ‘first lady of folk’. Announcing herself to the music press in 1999 with a nomination for the Mercury Music Prize, she has forged an impressive 30-year career, headlining everywhere from the Royal Albert Hall to Cambridge Folk Festival. Prepare to be thoroughly entertained by Kate’s wondrous singing and hugely engaging Yorkshire wit, and the intuitive support of the band in much-loved classics from her back catalogue, together with a selection of fresh new songs from her most recent albums.

Showwomen 20 & 21 May, Norwich Arts Centre A spectacular new show from Olivier award-winning performance maker Marisa Carnesky, Showwomen is a feminist rewrite: The untold herstory of British working-class entertainment from immigrant, queer, activist and occult perspectives. 1940’s body magic star Koringa, 1930’s pioneer clown Lulu Adams 1920s female dare-devil Marjorie Dare and 1880’s teeth hanging aerialist superstar Miss La La have inspired an exploration of lesser-known stories of extraordinary women in variety performance from a century ago. Showwomen compares them to the lived experiences of exceptional performers today.

www.norwichartscentre.co.uk

www.theapex.co.uk 15

Out&About

?

What's on

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Out&About

Going

out

Southwold Arts Centre Vivienne Rainsbury - Enano

?

What's on

World preview!

Queen Elizabeth II for Dummies 1 June, 7:30pm Award-winning author Stewart Ross in conversation. Stewart has just completed the ‘For Dummies’ guide to Britain’s longest reigning monarch, which will be available in bookshops from 19 June. In 2020, Stewart’s new play Attagirls! was filmed at Southwold Arts Centre and broadcast as part of the theatre summer season during lockdown. Stewart will be signing a limited number of pre-release copies of the book.

Diana Campbell - At Rest

Norfolk & Norwich Art Circle BOOK NOW

6-13 May, 9am to 5pm daily.

Free Entry, The Forum, Norwich

The High Kings are Finbarr Clancy, Darren Holden, Paul O'Brien and Brian Dunphy.

Between them they play 13 instruments, creating their unique sound and atmosphere in the folk idiom and re-energise great Irish ballads. They have had great success over the years including Best Folk Act at Ireland's Music Awards. Their reputation has grown tremendously, and they have had enormous success both within the US and Ireland. After 11 years at the top of their game, they are still selling out venues around the World to an ever- growing army of loyal fans.

They have charted across the world and performed for hundreds of thousands of fans, as well as in many prestigious situations including for the Prime Minister of England (2011), Barak Obama (2012) and George W Bush (2009 at The White House and at The Pentagon in 2015). They have made numerous coast to coast TV appearances including Good Morning America, Good Morning LA, The View and The Today Show.

Notable live performances include Glastonbury, the Isle of Wight Festival (3 times) headlining in 2015 and performed in Times Square as well as headlined the St Patrick’s Day concert in Trafalgar Square London in 2015.

After a wait of two years, one of Norfolk’s longest-running art groups will be staging its 202nd exhibition.

Norfolk and Norwich Art Circle, which was established in 1885, will show more than 150 works by its members at the Forum in Norwich this May. The exhibition will feature new selected artworks from members of the group in a variety of mediums, styles and art-forms with all artwork for sale.

Hazel Pidsley, chairman of Norfolk and Norwich Art Circle, said: “I am delighted that we can stage an exhibition in The Forum again and I do hope we will attract many visitors to see the varied, high-quality art that is produced by our members. There are more than 150 works to peruse in diverse mediums.

Thankfully the restrictions have been lifted so I hope people will enjoy the experience of seeing our members’ art in an excellent setting.”

Norfolk and Norwich Art Circle, which is marking its 137th year, was established in 1885 following Crome & Cotman's famous Norwich Society of Artists and has included in its membership artists of national and international acclaim such as Alfred Munnings, Edward Seago and Bernard Reynolds. It now has more than 200 members.

www.thehighkings.com

www.nnartcircle.com

The High Kings 8 June, Apex, Bury St Edmunds

16

Tim FitzHigham and guests 2 June at 2.30pm and 7.30pm Perrier-nominated Tim FitzHigham who rowed a copper bath across the Channel, sailed a paper boat the length of the Thames and Morris danced from London to Norwich is joined by special guests.

Westdal and Hayward 3 June, 2.30pm and 7.30pm Two middle-aged women, who between them have three dogs, two kids but only one fully functioning pelvic floor. They’re a tiny bit cross and they’re not going to take it anymore, so they’re dishing it out instead. Beth Hayward and Freyja Westdal have supported Dean Friedman on tour, performed alongside and written songs for 4 Poofs and a Piano, and 2019 saw their sell-out Edinburgh Fringe debut.

www.mtproductions.co.uk

www.wildoakworkshops.com

A Little bit about me: My name is Katie and I am passionate about helping people slow down, reconnect with nature and unleash the creative self in all of us. At Wild Oak Workshops, I design creative experiences where you will feel reconnected with nature, switch off from life’s daily pressures and when you leave, clutching your wonderful creation, you’ll feel your senses have been reawakened and creativity refreshed.

My creative learning workshops are fun, friendly, relaxed and rewarding. Perfect for you to come along to and enjoy on your own, or with a member of your family or a friend.

The Nest is a warm and happy environment to meet like minded people where we can create and learn from each other. You will leave with new skills, new friends and enjoy a sense of achievement with a renewed appreciation of the nature that surrounds us all.

My Why! Nature is my Therapy – it is the only way I feel I can ground myself and feel properly at peace, when I immerse myself in the Natural world that surrounds me.

So my daily dog walks in my local woods are crucial for me so that I can find a calm quiet moment to focus on something else other than the minutae of my life.

I know my woodland so well that I look for all the magical little signs of the seasons changing. Leaf buds, queen bumble bees emerging, thick green shoots of new fronds of bracken fern, rain drops captured on bright green moss, the smell of summer rain drops on the pine needle forest floor.

I often walk with friends and instinctively point out the little pockets of wonder

happening all around us, particularly if we have young woodland explorers with us. Most of us have completely stopped noticing the tiny little tells that spring is about to burst forth or the autumn mulching and composting ready for toadstools and mushrooms to break through the fallen autumn leaves.

Once we start looking our eyes suddenly see so much more, particularly as grownups, always rushing and multi-tasking thoughts in our heads. Then to gather a few sticks encrusted with lichen or a branch of fallen winter spruce to take back to my workshop and create something beautiful means that I can then marvel at nature in my home too!

Creativity is also something I need and rely on to give me a sense of achievement in a world which seems a never-ending mountain of tasks and to-do lists. I can’t tell you how happy it makes me to watch my clients faces light up when their creation starts to really emerge in front of their eyes. ’I can’t believe I made that!’ is a phrase that is often said with huge beams of pride on their faces. It’s the tactileness of holding an oak branch feeling the lichen, really studying the myriad of colours that nature provides through a macro lens that I supply that enables everyone to stop and absorb themselves.

Or inhaling the delicious smell of green moss harvested from the forest floor just after a rain fall. My clients are always so uplifted and relieved that I have been able to offer them a few hours of utter immersion into the beauty of the hedgerows and woodlands locally.

Wild Oak Workshops coming to you!

I am often invited to bring ‘WOW’ to beautiful locations as part of the Nature Engagement Team or Welcoming team.

The Norfolk Wild Life Trust (NWT Cley Marshes) asked me to bring all my delicious Natural Christmas Wreath ingredients last December and I am a firm fixture at the beautiful Ely Cathedral with my seasonal workshops. My Mothering Sunday bouquet was very popular and everyone made stunning creations in honour of Motherhood.

I tailor make bespoke workshops too for groups of up to 20 guests. Corporate gatherings are veering away from big hospitality events and instead immersing their hard working staff in more personal and rewarding experiences such as mine.

Mind health is a topic that comes up time and again during my workshops. Clients may have been recommended by a friend to join one of my creative experiences to try and unwind and have some well earned ‘quiet time’.

Nature therapy is what I offer, to finally find a moment to pause and enjoy a couple of hours creative floristry whilst learning about the seasons and how magical and beautiful our hedgerows and surrounding countryside is.

I have teamed up with West Acre Theatre – a stunning location and a wonderful selection of theatre and drama performances and experiences. They, like all of us will be celebrating our Queens Platinum Jubilee this June with a myriad of events including inviting you to come down to the tranquil lake and gather gorgeous pink flowers and foliage together with me to support and raise awareness for Breast Cancer UK. I have lots of new events for you to enjoy right up until Christmas and will also be launching a wonderful new collaboration which I am thrilled to have co-created with another talented creative therapist – watch this space!!

WILD OAK WORKSHOPS Hall Farm, Walton Road, East Winch, Norfolk PE32 1HH www.wildoakworkshops.com

PAID CONTENT

Creative workshops that reconnect you with nature... and yourself

Out&About

d Oak W i lWorkshops

Out&About

getting back to

Nature by Emily Sparkes

How

much time do your children spend playing outside? A survey by The National Trust has found that children spend half as much time playing outside than their parents did. The research found that on average, children spend just four hours playing outside each week. This is in stark contrast to the 32 hours each week that the average 2-5 year old spends in front of a screen. However, 9 out of 10 parents questioned said they would prefer their children to spend more time outdoors developing a connection with nature.

Studies have shown that children who spend more time playing outside are less prone to obesity, asthma, anxiety and depression. In addition to this, playing outside also leads to improved sleep, increased gross and fine motor skills and improved confidence and creativity. The research is difficult to argue with but in our modern world, it’s not always easy to find the time and energy to spend that muchneeded time outdoors.

I love nature and could bang on all day about how much I enjoy spending time outdoors and what a positive impact it has on my wellbeing. However, I’m also a busy mum who seems to find herself with a to-do list as long as her arm and a toddler that probably (...definitely) spends too much time in the company of Peppa Pig. This summer, I’m going to set myself a challenge to ensure that said toddler spends more time playing outdoors. Earth mother I am not but here are some of the ideas I’ve come up with:

Invest in some outdoor toys There’s nothing more enjoyable that sitting in the garden and sipping a cup of tea with the sun on your face. However, those of us with toddlers or small children know that the opportunities to actually indulge in this pleasure are few and far between.

I had a staunch anti-microwave policy for cups of tea prior to having my son but now a single cup of tea might find itself zapped umpteen times before it’s finally consumed at a reasonable temperature. So how can I drink a hot cup of tea in the garden whilst keeping the toddler safe and occupied?

Garden toys. I’ll start by saying that my garden is not large, in fact, it’s probably not even average, its small, so I won’t be building an Olympic-sized swimming pool or installing a multi-storey Wendy house.

Instead, I will be incorporating some small and simple outdoor toys such as pavement chalk, a football, a small sandpit with buckets and spades, some outdoor toy cars and diggers, and a slide. If I had older children, I might also consider bubbles, a skipping rope and Swingball.

Make the most of our environment Living in East Anglia means that we’re blessed with an incredible natural environment. With beaches, the broads and woodland all on our doorstep, I really do feel that I should be making more of an effort to make the most of it. My husband is from further inland and always remarks upon the fact that we very rarely have a “beach day”. There’s something about living right on top of something that means you take it for granted. My son loves walks on the beach and collecting stones, shells and other treasures. I’d also imagine that now he’s that little bit older, he’ll also love building sandcastles and digging holes.

This summer, I’m going to make an effort to spend more time at the beach.

Like thousands of others, during the first lockdown, with little else to do, we also developed a habit of taking a daily walk around our village. Our son was a baby at the time but we still made an effort to point out to him all the wonderfully interesting things on our doorstep, from

the duck pond to the field of cows round the corner, and even ladybirds resting on leaves. I’m sure he’d find it much more engaging now that he’s actually able to stay awake for the duration of a walk.

Perhaps we’ll start it again.

Bring the indoors out For children who seem less enthusiastic about spending time outside, it might be worth trialling bringing the indoors out. Obviously, there’s nowhere to plug a PlayStation in outside but children could be encouraged to bring some of their favourite toys or hobbies into the garden.

For example, if your child loves reading and can often be found with their nose in a book, there’s no reason that can’t be done in a comfy chair outside. If your child loves painting or colouring in, those activities could also be brought into the garden.

A favourite hobby of mine happens to be eating and that’s an excellent pursuit to take outdoors. Not necessarily BBQs – to be honest I find them a bit of a faff and I tend to panic about salmonella; I just like to sit in the garden for breakfast or dinner. Why not have a garden picnic to make lunch time that little bit more exciting?

Attend a forest school Forest schools are becoming increasingly popular and having attended a group based on the forest school ideology with my son, I can see why. Forest schools take a child-centred approach to learning and encourage children to explore the environment around them. Typically, Forest School’s don’t use outdoor toys to encourage play but provide children with resources such as pots and pans, paint brushes, bug viewers etc. to inspire them to take a closer look at the world around them.

Personally, I was amazed at how much my son enjoyed himself in such a simple environment and it gave me ideas for things to do with him at home such as painting with mud and water, collecting sticks, flowers and stones and making mud pies.

The group we attended was Wild Tots at Carlton Marshes – Suffolk Wildlife Trust and I’d highly recommend it!

19

JUBILEE OFFER! Prices from £605 per room. 3 night hotel package (to arrive on either the 2nd/3rd June) which will include: • Dinner each night. Including our 1950’s inspired Platinum Party Night with live entertainment from The Testosta Tones.

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PLATINUM PARTY NIGHT ONLY £27.50pp - 3 course meal and live entertainment from the The Testosta Tones.

PLATINUM PICNIC Sunday 5th June: Randolph-made picnics to order to takeaway and enjoy on Reydon’s Jubilee Green - including finger sandwiches, Randolph famous sausage rolls, scones and a variety of home-made treats! £12.50pp These are exclusive to direct bookings only and are available by either calling the number below or booking via our website.

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?

What's on

out

2022 is the year of Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

To commemorate this historic milestone, a series of events and initiatives will be held throughout Norfolk and Suffolk to celebrate the occasion and leave an enduring legacy for our county.

Local events:

Hoveton Hall Jubilee Country Fair 2 June, St Peter's Lane, Hoveton Hall Estate, Norwich, Norfolk, NR12 8RJ.

Corton Jubilee Celebrations 3 June, Community picnic, live music, food stalls and children’s entertainment. The Street, Corton, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR32 5HW.

Loddon and Chedgrave Platinum Jubilee Fête 4 June, Loddon & Chedgrave Playing Field, George Lane, Loddon, Norfolk, NR14 6NB.

Hopton-on-Sea Jubilee Community Event 4 June, Music-themed community event, musical acts, local art, classic car show, stalls, food and refreshments, raffle. Recreation Ground, Lowestoft Road, Hoptonon-Sea, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 9AH.

Dersingham Jubilee Jamboree 4 June, 1950s-themed evening, live music, street party style meal, starting at 6:30pm, entry by advance booking, ticket required. 83 Manor Road, Dersingham, King's Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 6JS. www.dersinghamvillagecentre.org.uk

Caston Street Lunch Party 5 June, "Bring and share, leave nothing there", village street lunch party in front of the village hall from 12pm-4pm. The Street, Caston, Attleborough, Norfolk.

Wells-next-the-Sea Jubilee Street Party 5 June, Street party including sideshows, stalls, funfare and music. The Buttlands, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk, NR23 1EU.

A Royal Salute A special musical celebration of Her Majesty’s 70 years on the throne, devised by David Stowell and Peter Wilson, featuring the talents of over 1,600 of Norfolk’s schoolchildren, a chorus of 150 voices, the 60-strong Norfolk Music Hub Ensemble, Norca Sistema’s Samba band, the Norfolk African Choir, and including two specially commissioned original pieces of music.

There will be 2 performances at the Norfolk Showground on Wednesday 29 June at 5:20pm and Thursday 30 June at 5pm. Entry is free from 4pm.

Jubilee Trails When the ideas of how to commemorate Her Majesty’s Jubilee were being considered, a recurring theme was how to incorporate many of the elements that have been identified as important in the Jubilee celebrations. These include accessibility to the natural world, encouraging exercise and outdoor experience, resulting in the potential education and well-being benefits. The development of the Jubilee trails seemed a perfect way to meet all these objectives. There are four trails currently in preparation: Heacham to King's Lynn, Gressenhall to Dereham, Great Yarmouth to Lowestoft and Gayton to Castle Acre.

Challenge Awards The Platinum Jubilee Norfolk Challenge Awards will be given to those people who are making a significant contribution to the Norfolk community as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations and beyond. They have been developed in tribute to the late Duke of Edinburgh, whose own Award scheme has been so influential on the lives of generations of young people.

Each participant or group is required to complete these four challenges: - Being active in Norfolk (The physical challenge) - Protecting our environment (The sustainability challenge) - Learning legacy (The learning challenge) - Celebrating the Jubilee (The community challenge)

To find out more about the above three Norfolk celebrations and how you can get involved, visit: www.platinumjubileenorfolk.org

21

Out&About

Going

May is all about

spring menus & full-on culture

There’s a lot to look forward this month including the return of some of Norwich’s most vibrant cultural events says Melanie Cook of www.VisitNorwich.co.uk

This

Legateau

22

year sees Norwich’s largest festival celebrate 250 years- the Norfolk & Norwich Festival. The Festival is in fact one of the oldest arts festivals in the world, which seems incredible. Originally organised in 1772 to raise funds for the new Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, the rest-as they say-is history.

Starting its life as a celebration of orchestral concerts, the first ‘Grand Music Festival’ took place in 1778 at St Andrew’s Hall and Sir Peter Mancroft Church. In 1824 it grew to become the ‘Triennial Norfolk and Norwich Festival’.

In 1958 the programme shifted to include visual arts and theatre for the first time. Shortly after this, in 1961, it was given the new name of ‘Norwich Festival of Music and the Arts’ which also saw Jazz incorporated. In 1989 the Festival become an annual event, then moved from October to May in 2002.

The much-adored Spiegeltent arrived in 2009, which brings us to 2022 celebrating 250 years.

Over the years thousands of people at the Festival have enjoyed performance, visual arts, music (of all genres), cabaret, dance and hugely joyful, eclectic things to do that you could never have imagined experiencing. I’m a huge fan. I’ve walked backwards around Norwich (I thoroughly recommend it), had an opera singer perform at my house (incredible), stayed a night at Air Hotel in the woods (I’ve never laughed so much), seen more nudity than I can shake a stick at (blush,

Hermeto Pascal

Brix and Bones Norwich

Out&About

thank you Spiegeltent) and had some of the most memorable experiences with my family and friends, that I will treasure forever.

And whether you’re one or one hundred, there’s always amazing things to do. The Festival today is a diverse and inclusive 17-day event full of surprises, shocks (good ones of course) and frivolity, depending on what tickles your fancy.

This year’s free large-scale opening event is all of the above and more.

Dominoes (Station House Opera, 13 May, 6pm), starts at Anglia Square and then moves into Norwich city centreliterally. This is an artwork of epic proportions. Much as its name suggests, these are dominoes, a two-kilometre line of breeze blocks falling and shifting in front of your eyes. It will be a thing of beauty. Sponsored by Norwich Business Improvement District this is part of the TARMAC Free Outdoor Programme at the Festival.

Much of the Free Outdoor Programme takes place in Chapelfield Gardens which this year for the first time has a 17-day stint where the gardens transform into the ‘Festival Gardens’ for the full length of the festival. The Band Stand (in partnership with BBC Music Introducing) takes place between 13–17 May at 7.30pm and 9.30pm. Soak up the atmosphere whilst incredible young music-makers keep you entertained. The annual Garden Party (21–22 May) once again offers free family fun where eight new shows are on offer as well as 'make and do' sessions.

The Festival Gardens are also home to a great bar- for after-work and lunchtime get-togethers and pre and post show drinks. And, of course, my favourite, The Adnams Spiegeltent (18–29 May) in all its full decedent glory. Once again, the Speigeltent will be providing us with laughs, music, literature and cabaret.

Dominoes

The Ivy Norwich Brasserie

The Spiegeltent has a range of activities and shows from weekend daytime to early evening as well as some starting at 10pm, meaning there’s a host of other things you can fit into your evening including dinner ahead of a show.

The Ivy Brasserie in Norwich (London Street) is one such place and a perfect venue to compliment the glamour of the Spiegeltent. Start your evening with cocktails, a French Garden 75 (£12.25), incorporating Hendricks Gin, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, sugar, lime, cucumber and The Ivy Collection Champagne or a Sparkling Peartini (£12.50), featuring a sumptuous blend of Grey Goose Le Poire, Italicus Bergamot Liqueur, Lillet Blanc, lemon and The Ivy Collection Champagne.

Their new spring menu includes delights like Garden Pea & Nettle Soup (£6.95), Grilled Asparagus with Szechuan mayonnaise, capers, flaked almonds, quail’s egg and watercress (£8.50) and sweet treats like their new Black Bee Honey and White Chocolate Cheesecake (£9.25).

At the other end of London Street find new kid on the block George Wood at Brix and Bones. George’s open fire cooking is causing quite a stir across Norwich. And with a menu vastly different to other restaurants in the city it’s proving a very popular haunt.

Seating only 30 (open Wednesday to Saturday), this is an intimate space where you watch dinner cooked in the opentheatre style kitchen. Dishes includes pre-meal snacks like Curry Scratchings, lime pickle mayo (£3) and Prawn toast,

pickled onion, burnt lime togarashi (£5) with small plates such as a selection of Marsh Pig cured meats, brix piccalilli (£8) or fish sausage, mushy pea mayo, pickled sea purslane (£8). Then cooked over the coals- 200 Day aged Hereford sirloin (£15 per kilo) and line-caught grey mullet with roast fennel gravy (£20). Desserts are bone marrow fudge doughnut (£6) and goat’s cheese ice cream, beetroot molasses with a fennel cracker (£7).

This year also sees Norwich celebrate 10 years of being a UNESCO City of Literature. And during Norfolk & Norwich Festival annually, one weekend is always dedicated to this status with the City of Literature Weekend (27–29 May).

In all there are over 10 events over the weekend taking place across Norwich, the Spiegeltent, Plantation Garden and Dragon Hall.

One such event is Wandering Words: A walking Tour of Norwich UNESCO City of Literature (free, 13–29 May).

This literary walk celebrates the 10year anniversary. On the tour discover Norwich of the past, present and future through newly commissioned poems from fantastic writers with links to the city. Pick up a walking trail map from the Festival Box Office.

But to truly get under the skin of all that the Festival offers, as always, I suggest giving the printed brochure a really good read. Grab a coffee, settle back and go at it from cover to cover so as not to miss any of the amazing cultural events taking place across Norwich and the county. It’s wonderful to get back to a thrilling full and packed programme after the last couple of years.

Finally, I wish you a fabulous time at Norfolk & Norwich Festival in its 250th year. And remember, book something you’re not really sure about because the risk may just mean you get to do something very special and memorable.

For more inspiration for wonderful things to see and so in Norwich and Norfolk as well as places to stay, eat and shop go to www.visitnorwich.co.uk 23

ARTS, HERITAGE & COMMUNITY

WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH...

TUE 3 MAY

FREE LIVE MUSIC - OPEN MIC NIGHT

WED 4 MAY

FAMILY THEATRE - THE TIME MACHINE

6 & 7 MAY

LITERARY FESTIVAL - SEA FEVER 6

SAT 7 MAY

CLASSICAL MUSIC - DICHTERLIEBE

WED 11 MAY

TALK - NATURE IN NORTH NORFOLK

FRI 13 MAY

LIVE MUSIC - MERVYN AND THE STARBEATS

SAT 14 MAY

TALKS - THE AGRICULTURAL REVOLUTION

WED 18 MAY

FREE BINGO - BINGO STAR

THU 19 MAY

HERITAGE - THE 1852 CENSUS

SAT 21 MAY

MET OPERA LIVE - LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR

THU 26 MAY

NT LIVE - STRAIGHT LINE CRAZY

SUN 29 MAY

FREE LIVE MUSIC - ANNIE DUGGAN

TUE 31 MAY

THE CLEVERDICK GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ

THU 2 JUN

FAMILY THEATRE - I SPY WITH MY LITTLE EYE

THU 2 JUN

RIGHT ROYAL RACE NIGHT

FRI 3 JUN

JEFF SHORT SWING BAND: 1952 TEA DANCE

SAT 4 JUN

MET OPERA LIVE - HAMLET

TUE 7 JUN

FREE LIVE MUSIC - OPEN MIC NIGHT

FILMS, CLASSES AND MORE LISTED ON OUR WEBSITE

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Competition

Competition time

WIN: 2 TICKETS 3 great events

to at Earlham Ticketmaster.co.uk

Park, Norwich

Ticketek.co.uk

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Ibiza Orchestra Experience

Friday 24 June - Featuring a full 26 piece orchestra the Ibiza Orchestra Experience will transport audiences through the decades. Iconic White Isle classics, and featuring a special guest vocalist, it will be the ultimate Ibiza Experience.

Simply Red

Saturday 25 June - Selling over 60 million albums worldwide with 5 number one UK albums this legendary band is back. Sing along to chart topping hits such as ‘Holding Back The Years’, ‘Money’s Too Tight’ and many others!

Ball & Boe

Sunday 26 June - Performing their hit songs from their debut release ’Together’ Michael Ball and Alfie Boe are back on tour this summer! ‘Together’ became the fastest selling album of 2016 and beat out the likes of Little Mix and The Rolling Stones to claim the Christmas No.1!

How to enter?

To be in with a chance of winning two tickets to each of the above events perform at Earlham Park, Norwich on 24, 25 & 26 June 2022 complete the form with your contact details at www.placesandfaces.co.uk/competitions or enter by post sending your contact details to 3 GREAT EVENTS COMPETITION Places&Faces Magazine, Micropress Printers Ltd, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Suffolk IP18 6DH

Competition closes 31 May 2022

Prize details: 2 x tickets to see Ibiza Orchestra on Friday 24 June, 2 x tickets to see Simply Red on Saturday 25 June and 2 x tickets to see Ball & Boe on Sunday 26 June, all performing at Earlham Park, Norwich. See page 7 for full terms & conditions, or visit www.placesandfaces.co.uk/competitions.

25

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Books

The

Book-it

LIST

What

has been a constant over the Covid years is our love of books and in particular crime books. When we think of crime, Sherlock Holmes remains one of the most fascinating and enduring characters in British history and its author Arthur Conan Doyle, one of the most famous writers.

Mike Bryan, Director of publishers Baker Street Press, takes up the story: "There has always been a high level of interest in the ‘consulting detective’ and we felt the time was right to launch the ‘Sherlock Holmes Deluxe Classics Series'.

"This collection of nine hardback books is a retroinspired full set of the wonderful tales of Holmes at work, featuring cover illustrations from editions of the 1920s.

"Originally serialised in newspapers and magazines in the late 19th century, Conan Doyle’s famous collection of detective stories transport the reader back to Holmes’s bustling Victorian London, the misty moors of Dartmoor, the dizzying heights of the Reichenbach Falls and the cosy living room of 221B Baker Street."

Launched by Baker Street publishers, the complete ‘Sherlock Holmes Deluxe Classics’ collection of nine books is available from Waterstones and all good bookshops, or buy direct at www.ccsbooks.co.uk/product-category/baker-streetclassics-sherlock-holmes/

Competition time

WIN:

The ‘Sherlock Holmes Deluxe Classics’ book collection How to enter?

To celebrate Sherlock Holmes Day on 22 May we have two full sets of nine books to giveaway to two lucky readers. To be in with a chance of winning answer the question below and complete the form with your contact details and answer at www.placesandfaces.co.uk/competitions or enter by post sending your answer and contact details to SHERLOCK HOLMES COMPETITION Places&Faces Magazine, Micropress Printers Ltd, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Suffolk IP18 6DH

Q:

In which book do Holmes and Watson travel to Dartmoor to solve the mystery of a family curse?

Competition closes 31 May 2022

Prize details: 2 x full sets on nine Sherlock Holmes Deluxe Classics books to two separate winners. See page 7 for full terms & conditions, or visit www.placesandfaces.co.uk/competitions.

27

g n i r i p s In women

Sarah Cannell

Norfolk based artist Sarah Cannell inspires us all to have a much more creative life, discovers Rachel Gilbert www.sarahcannell.com

Sarah

Cannell spends countless hours bouncing between a variety of different projects. She founded and runs the Raveningham Sculpture Trail, leads workshops through the UEA Do something Different Festival and curates a range of exhibitions across the UK — all while making and creating her own paintings, prints and ceramics.

“I’m not very good at doing things I’m not really interested in but equally it is very full on… I love working in the arts, it can be hard work but it is my passion, so that gives me my drive.", Sarah said.

Inspired by landscape and nature, Sarah is a painter, printmaker and potter.

Sarah’s latest work is the 1,000 vessels Project, a challenge she set herself within the creation of ceramics. Inspired by an experiment detailed in the book Art and Fear, and with the idea that to be really good at something, it will take 10,000 hours of practice, Sarah decided she would make 1,000 vessels from clay.

Each piece takes in the region of 10 28

hours to create, so by the end Sarah will have completed 10,000 hours of practice. She had hoped to complete the project in three years but is currently slightly behind this schedule. Currently the vessel count stands at 176.

Woodland Lumiere, Great Oak Corner, ink and acrylic on paper, 60 x 60cm

“By the time I have thrown a 1,000 vessels, I will know if I still really love it, or if I actually really hate it,” Sarah said.

Sarah comes from a community arts background, something that shines through in her curation. Visitors to the Raveningham Sculpture Trail are able to see work from artists that have recently graduated art school next to pieces by award-winners. She is making really good art more accessible to people that may not have had exposure to it previously.

Although she has a Masters Degree in museum studies, Sarah understands that museums can be intimidating. The sculpture trail brings really good art out to rural Norfolk, and allows children and families to engage with art in an accessible way.

“I find that people respond to it and ask questions,” Sarah said. “That's what really fires me up.”

Sarah’s passion truly comes out when she talks about bringing more people into the art world. During the pandemic,

Based in a cosy studio in a cherry orchard in Raveningham,South Norfolk (12 miles south of Norwich), Sarah’s workshops are suitable for all abilities with her relaxed approach giving beginners confidence and her depth of knowledge being a useful source for more confident and established artists to bounce ideas off. Participants should expect to come away from each workshop with fresh ideas as well as a renewed enthusiasm and creative drive.

Linoprint Thursday 7 May 10-3pm, £65

Landscape Walk, Draw, Paint Thursday 12 May 10-3pm, £65

Nature Journal Thursday 26 May 10-3pm, £65

Linoprint Saturday 11 June 10-3pm, £65

Slow Stitch Journal

I love

working in the arts, it can be hard work but it is my passion, so that gives me my drive she continued her workshops with UEA via Zoom. She created boxes with art supplies for students to follow along with the online classes.

When she visits primary schools, Sarah enjoys encouraging teachers and TAs to engage with the work, to play and create — even if it turns out a bit rubbish. “We learn so much more from our mistakes,” she said.

Sarah’s family have supported her fully — her husband Dave pushes her to seize every opportunity that comes her way.

The duo both balance busy careers in

the arts while looking after their son.

When asked who inspires her as an artist, Sarah took some time to come up with an answer. She thinks out loud, taking the listener on a journey through her thought process. She reflected on visits to London and Foyle’s Bookshop where she would scan the spines of art books.

The section would be dominated by male names and artists until one visit where she spotted Angie Lewin’s name.

Lewin is an artist based in Scotland and Norfolk creating prints and paintings inspired by her surroundings.

“It slightly blew my mind a little bit, she’s got a book just about her, in this section of Foyle’s bookshop and she's just doing her thing out in the Norfolk countryside and she’s here amongst the likes of Jackson Pollock,” Sarah said. “That moment was really inspiring for me.”

On reflection, Sarah came up with three artists that have shaped her approach to making. Angie Lewin for the calm focus on nature, Sheila Hicks for her use of colour and Mona Hartoum for the processing of emotion through art.

Sarah also looks to her sister Laura, a successful musician, as a source of inspiration. The pair grew up together in Thurlton, near Beccles and Sarah thinks this is where their drive was born. They didn’t have much to do in the area which meant they both developed an inner creative drive.

“We weren’t taken to many clubs, it sort of instils in you a sense of independence and drive,” Sarah said. “I think I was given the drive and the idea that you can just do something yourself.”

Thursday 16 June 10-3pm, £65

www.sarahcannell.com @sarahcannellartist

Sunday 8 May, 10 – midday, £16

Clay Day, Pinch, Coil, Slab pots Thursday 23 June 10-3pm, £65

Weekly Clay sessions Book as many sessions as you like to attend weekly or as a one off drop in session. For regular students you can develop work over the course of a few weeks and have work bisque fired and then play around with colour and glaze.

Learn how to make pinch/coil/slab pots, tile making, small bird sculptures or bring your own ideas to develop.

Sunday 1 May, 10 – midday, £16

Sunday 15 May, 10 – midday, £16 www.raveninghamsculpturetrail.com @raveninghamsculpturetrail

Sunday 22 May, 10 – midday, £16 29

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Beccles Food and Drink Festival 28 May, 10-4, Beccles Following a successful return in 2021, Beccles Food and Drink Festival is back to celebrate a feast of culinary delights for 2022. The free Festival will feature over 50 food and drink stalls, many of them local artisan producers, as well as those from further afield in East Anglia. Based in the centre of the vibrant market town, the Festival will include cookery demonstrations and talks, world street food and children’s entertainment. A free Park and Ride shuttle service will run throughout the day from Beccles Quay, where additional parking will be available. Building on the successful formula of previous years, the Festival is set to repeat Fringe events in the local area two weeks either side of the main event day. www.becclesfoodfestival.co.uk

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Vegan Cheese & Onion

When it comes to snacking, vegans can feel hard done by from the lack of choice and defaulting to a boring pack of ready salted. But, now, Fairfields Farm has converted to 100% vegan flavours with the launch of its new Vegan Cheese & Onion flavour. A delicious creamy cheese flavour with subtle hints of onion, joins Fairfields' full range of vegan-friendly flavours which include Rib of Beef and Bacon & Tomato. Available now from The Co-op, Amazon and online from Fairfields, RRP 80p per 40g bag. www.fairifleldsfarmcrisps.co.uk

Chunky chocolate

Love dark chocolate, but bored of the serious rhetoric? Ever wonder why milk chocolate gets to have all the fun? These are the questions new dark chocolate brand FATSO asked when creating their super chunky, personality-packed and 100% ethically made bars of dark chocolate deliciousness. A bar like you’ve never tried before, FATSO is setting dark chocolate on a collision course towards cool and bringing you the highest quality ingredients packed with big flavour combos that will leave you beaming. Find Fatso nationwide or buy online. RRP £5.95 per 150g bar. www.sofatso.com

If you want an alternative drink to enjoy in the sun then look no further. Local brewer John Costin creates three beautiful tastes of the Norfolk countryside; Wildflower Mead (semisweet), Woodland Mead (semi-dry) and Treasury Mead (barrelled). All are available to purchase from local suppliers and online - although the current batch of the Treasury Mead has sold out so it is worth keeping an eye out for when the new batch is on sale... I know I will be.

Mead is fermented honey.

True mead involves the fermentation of the sugars in the honey to make alcohol.

The mead John produces is a true delight and is complex yet accessible on the pallet and fragrant on the nose.

If you haven't tried this yet then you really should, it's what summer in the garden was made for. www.norfolkambermead.net 31

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The

Life&Living

One

PAID CONTENT

Jarrold’s passion for food and drink is clear in the diverse and delicious range of restaurants.

The one

to enjoy with friends

With considered surroundings and carefully curated menus, they are the perfect place to enjoy lunch with the ladies or a relaxing recharge during your visit to Jarrold.

Benji's Restaurant, Floor 1 The hidden gem in the corner of the fashion floor gives an exclusive feel that will quickly become your everyday favourite. The perfect place for a two course lunch and a glass of wine with friends.

The one

with the great atmosphere The Exchange, Lower ground

Offering a delicious menu of wood fired pizza, fresh pasta and salads, along with an extensive list of wines; The Exchange is a contemporary space where you can enjoy the great atmosphere and wide choice of Italian cuisine.

The one for everyone

The Pantry Restaurant, Floor 3 A unique home-from-home dining experience in stylish, comfortable surroundings.

Highlights include a delicious full English Breakfast, a carvery served every day and of course, the legendary Jarrold scones.

The one for a little luxury

The Bay Seafood Bar, Floor 2 Enjoy some of the best seafood in Norwich from homemade fish pie to lobster bisque, through to a luxurious caviar menu; all while overlooking the historical and colourful marketplace.

The one

for casual dining The Wine Bar, Lower Ground

Take the weight off your feet and enjoy a glass of wine with a delicious charcuterie board at the Wine Bar in our Deli on the lower ground floor.

BOOK NOW

33 www.jarrold.co.uk

Chunky Mushroom Turkish BOSH! on a Budget

by Henry Firth and Ian Theasby is OUT NOW published by HQ, £16.99 Ian and Henry, founders of BOSH!, have a burning desire to show the world just how easy it can be to eat plants. Whether you’re looking to overhaul your entire philosophy around what you eat, or simply looking for meat-free Monday inspiration, they’ve got your back. Their inventive food creations reached more than half a billion people in just their first year. They don’t do dull dinners and want to spread the word: going more plant-based doesn’t need to be restrictive or boring. In fact, it can be downright delicious. www.bosh.tv

34

P ide

Pide

are like a boat-shaped Turkish version of a pizza, their sides brought up and pinched together at the ends to hold a thick layer of delicious filling. In this version, tender mushrooms and red peppers are coated in a smoky harissa sauce that's perfumed with paprika, cumin and garlic. The dough recipe could happily be rolled into a round and repurposed into a pizza base, just top with tomato sauce, dairy-free cheese and any other toppings that you fancy and bake until crisp and golden.

INGREDIENTS: Serves 4 • 250g strong white bread flour • 1 x 7g fast-action dried yeast • ½ tsp caster sugar • ½ tsp salt • 150ml warm water • 1 Tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing For the filling • 2 red peppers • 500g mushrooms • 1 Tbsp olive oil • big pinch of salt • 1 red onion • 2 garlic cloves • 1-2 Tbsp harissa paste, or tomato paste • 1 Tbsp smoked paprika • 2 tsp ground cumin • small bunch fresh parsley • 1 lemon

METHOD: Make the dough Add the flour, yeast, sugar and salt to the bowl or mixer and mix to combine. Add the water and the 1 tablespoon of oil and mix together. Knead well for 10 minutes either in the mixer or by aggressively bashing the dough on to the floured surface, punching and folding repeatedly, until smooth and springy. Put in a bowl, cover loosely and leave to rise for 1 hour, or until at least doubled in size.

Make the filling Trim and finely chop the peppers and mushrooms.

Place the frying pan over a high heat and add the olive oil. Add the chopped peppers and mushrooms to the hot oil with the salt. Fry for 10 minutes, stirring regularly, until the water has evaporated

and the vegetables are cooked down and starting to turn golden. Peel and finely chop half the red onion and add it to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes.

Peel and grate the garlic directly into the pan. Add the harissa or tomato paste and stir well, then add the spices and stir again. Remove from the heat. Finely chop half the parsley and stir it through the mixture. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Halve the lemon and squeeze in the juice of half. Set aside to cool.

Bake the pides Heat the oven to 200°C. Tip the dough on to a clean surface, roll it into a log and cut it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an oval about 10cm wide and 20cm long.

Transfer to the lined baking sheet. Spoon the filling over

the middle of each oval, leaving a 2cm dough border around the edges. Fold the edges up and over the filling around the edges of the pides and pinch together at the ends to create boat shapes. Press a little to make sure the edges stick to the filling and don't flare out during baking. Brush with olive oil and bake for 1520 minutes, until the dough is deep golden and the bottoms are crisp.

Serve Finely slice the remaining red onion and put the slices into a small bowl. Squeeze over the juice of the lemon half and toss to coat. Pick the parsley leaves and mix them with the lemon and onion. Remove the baked pides from the oven and top them with the onion and parsley mixture.

Is it a salad? Is it a wrap?

No. It's larb, and it's here to make your lunchtime tastier. This is a brilliant healthy-but-tasty finger-food meal for when you have friends over and want to put something fun and informal in the middle of the table for everyone to dig into. Great texture, great colour and great taste. What's not to love?

Larb

Food&Drink

Jackfruit

INGREDIENTS: Serves 4 (as a lunch or starter) • 2 x 400g tins jackfruit • 1 lemongrass stalk • 1 garlic clove • 2.5cm piece fresh ginger • 2-3 red chillies • 10g fresh coriander • 10g fresh mint • 50g salted peanuts • 2 baby gem lettuces • 1 Tbsp groundnut oil For the dressing • 2 limes • 1 banana shallot • 1 Tbsp light soy sauce • 1 Tbsp sweet chilli sauce

METHOD: Roast the jackfruit Preheat oven to 200°C and Line a baking tray. Drain and rinse the jackfruit, then pat dry with a clean tea towel. Spread out on the lined baking tray and roast in the oven for 20 minutes. Use two forks to pull apart and shred the jackfruit when cooked. Meanwhile, prepare the remaining ingredients; trim the lemongrass stalk, strip the bark and slice finely. Peel and finely grate the garlic and ginger. Finely slice the chillies. Pick the coriander leaves and finely slice the stems.

Pick the mint leaves. Break the peanuts up in a pestle and mortar.

Cut stems of the lettuce, pull apart the larger leaves and rinse under cold water. Halve the limes for the dressing. Peel the shallot, cut it in half and finely slice it lengthways.

Cook the larb Warm the oil in a wok over a medium-high heat. Add the jackfruit and stir for 3-4 minutes.

Add the lemongrass, garlic, ginger, two of the chillies and the coriander stems. Stir for 2 minutes.

Turn the heat down to very low to keep warm, stirring occasionally to make sure it doesn't catch.

Make the dressing Squeeze the lime juice into a bowl and add the sliced shallot and squash it slightly to break it down a little. Add the soy sauce and sweet chilli and stir to combine.

Serve Spoon the jackfruit mixture into the lettuce leaves, drizzle over the dressing, garnish with the fresh coriander, mint leaves, broken peanuts and a few slices of chilli if you like it extra kicky! Serve immediately.

35

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Food&Drink

Honey-glazed

peach, rocket &

goat' s cheese salad Recipe by Comvita Manuka Honey and Lisa Holmen @LISAEATSWORLD

INGREDIENTS: for the salad • 2 large peaches, cut into wedges • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 Tbsp Comvita Mānuka Honey MG30+ • 150g rocket or baby spinach or a combination • 1 avocado diced • ¼ red onion sliced • ½ cup goat's cheese, crumbled • ½ cup almonds, roasted • 2 Tbsp sunflower seeds • Lime wedges, to garnish

for the honey vinaigrette • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil • 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar • Pinch of salt • 1 or 2 Tbsp Comvita Mānuka Honey MG30+

METHOD: The honey glazed peaches: Add oil in a large griddle frying pan and heat on medium-high heat. Once the oil is heated, add the Mānuka honey and peach slices and grill until golden on one side. Remove and leave to cool In a large bowl, add all the salad ingredients and toss to combine. Top with peach slices and lime wedges.

To make the honey vinaigrette: Whisk all the ingredients in a small bowl until well combined and drizzle over the salad. Serve immediately.

37

Roast cauliflower salad with Manuka

honey mustard dressing Recipe by Comvita Manuka Honey and nutritionist Rachel Hawkins

INGREDIENTS: for the salad • 1 head of cauliflower • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed • 1 tsp cumin • 2 tsp paprika • 3 cloves garlic, minced • extra virgin olive oil • pinch of salt • 200g mixed lettuce leaves • 1/2 cucumber, sliced • 1/4 cup fresh dill, roughly chopped • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped • 2 Tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped • 150g goat's feta

for the dressing • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil • 3 Tbsp Comvita UMF 5+ Mānuka Honey • 2 tsp Dijon mustard • 1.5 Tbsp white wine vinegar • Juice of half a lemon • Pinch of salt

METHOD: Preheat oven to 180°C and line a tray with baking paper.

Cut the cauliflower into small florets and place on the tray. Add the chickpeas to the tray and drizzle with a generous amount of oil.

Sprinkle the cumin, paprika, salt and garlic over the cauliflowers and chickpeas and toss to coat. Cook for 40-45mins.

Assemble the salad by placing the lettuce leaves, cucumber, and herbs in a bowl.

Prepare the dressing by placing all dressing ingredients into a jar and shaking to combine.

Once cooked, add the cauliflower and chickpeas to the bowl. Crumble the feta on top of the salad and gently toss through the dressing.

38

Food&Drink

Prawns

with

honey, garlic & brown butter chilli jam

Recipe by Comvita Manuka Honey and Holy Inglis @THEHEALTHYHUNTER

INGREDIENTS: • 1kg green prawns, weighed whole • 50g butter • 2 Tbsp Comvita UMF 5+ Mānuka Honey • 4 cloves garlic, crushed • 1 red chilli • 1/4 cup finely chopped chives • 1/2 tsp lemon zest • 1 tsp salt • 1 Tbsp lemon juice plus extra lemon for serving • 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus extra for cooking • Extra lemon zest and salt flakes for serving

METHOD: Shell and devein the prawns, slicing them down the back so they curl up as they cook.

Place butter in a small saucepan, melt and continue cooking until it smells nutty and the milk solids have turned brown. Remove from heat and allow to cool for five minutes.

Cut the chilli in half. Finely chop one half and finely sliced the other. Mix together the garlic, finely chopped chilli, all but one tablespoon of chives, Mānuka honey, lemon zest, salt and oil. Then slowly stir in the brown butter. Pour half this mix over the prawns and toss to coat. Set aside to marinade for at least ten minutes. Add the lemon juice to remaining marinade.

Mix together one teaspoon each of lemon zest and salt flakes and set aside with the sliced chilli and remaining chopped chives. This will be used to garnish.

Heat a large pan on medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once hot add the prawns in batches, cooking for one minute each side until they are golden brown.

Once cooked add all the prawns back into the pan and pour over remaining sauce.

Toss to coat; the sauce should quickly caramelise. Remove from the heat and scatter over your prepared garnish. Drizzle with extra Mānuka honey and serve.

39

Slow Livıng Niobe Shaw looks at how we all can live a slower pace of life.

In a world

becoming obsessed with efficiency and speed - fast fashion, fast food, one-click ordering, maximising productivity and condensing content - slow living prioritises the opposite.

Googling ‘slow living’ offers 3.8 billion results, ironically in just half a second.

Living slowly is to live a life that feels balanced, while making intentional choices based on your values. The lifestyle goes against much of what the 21st century has built, yet it’s gaining in popularity.

It’s a way of living that has intrigued me for some time. Like many, I’ve learned about the lifestyles of our happy Scandinavian neighbours in reads detailing hygge and lagom. Ever since these books promoting cosiness, comfort and having ‘just enough’ hit our shelves - intentionally placed alongside candles and houseplants - slow living has been on the rise.

However it isn’t new. Slow living stems from the slow food movement.

In the late 80s, Carlo Petrini and other activists protested against the opening of a McDonald’s near the Spanish Steps in Rome. The group wanted to protect the authenticity and joy of home-based cooking and eating together. The Slow Food manifesto stated, “To escape the tediousness of 'fast-food', let us rediscover the rich varieties and aromas of local cuisines.”

Slow living encourages us to take joy from everyday moments. A glance at #slowliving on Instagram shows scenes of coffee cups alongside journals, cosy cabins dappled in sunlight and calming, neutral interiors. It’s about savouring simplicity, sustainability and serenity.

40

Benefits: Slow living is less stressful. The mindset shift allows more clarity over tasks.

Focusing on completing them one at a time - and completing it well - enables you to get through your to-do list in a more attentive way, rather than stressfully bouncing between tasks.

Why opt for a slower lifestyle?

This more conscious and intentional approach to life comes with several benefits for individuals and for the planet. It’s no wonder more and more of us are opting to move to the slow lane, at least in the areas of life in which we have the power to do so.

Do you allow yourself to rest, or do you feel guilty when you take an afternoon break on the sofa? Many of us have been brought up measuring our self-worth, or a day’s success, on how productive it has been. A slower lifestyle challenges this view, offering a more relaxed way of being. It isn’t promoting laziness; instead it encourages more conscious choices, rather than living our lives in a perpetual fluster.

Choosing activities that fulfil you, rather than whittling away time, will provide a greater sense of enjoyment and purpose.

Reclaiming your time and space, and experiencing less stress, will allow you to spend more quality time with yourself and those you’re closest to.

Prioritising more of what makes you happy improves well-being, and being more present will enable you to find reasons to be cheerful that you might otherwise miss.

It’s better for the planet. Slow living places a strong emphasis on sustainability and the move away from commercialism and convenience. In removing yourself from the fast lane, you’ll inevitably make more considered choices and consume less.

Life& Life&Living &Living

How you can slow down Living slowly in this fast paced world isn’t easy. Whilst I’d love a morning routine incorporating a journaling session, a gentle stroll with a peppermint tea, and a chapter of a book, my lengthy commute doesn’t allow for this. That being said, we can bring elements of slow living into our lives no matter how busy it seems. Begin by trying one or two of these tips.

Hobbies Make the time for the things you love, by limiting your distractions. A few minutes scrolling through your phone is fine, but don’t let it take over. Be intentional in your plans. For example, enjoy an episode of a show and let excitement build for the next one, instead of bingeing an entire series. Whatever your hobby, be it reading, exercising or painting, prioritise these and dedicate your full focus.

Travel International travel is increasing again, but you don’t need to go far to enjoy an adventure: there’s plenty to do on our doorstep in Norfolk and Suffolk. Head somewhere new or return to a favourite spot. Visit a coffee shop and ask the barista to impart their local wisdom.

You’re bound to leave with a few ideas of where to enjoy next.

Whether home or abroad, try to chat to local people, eat in independent restaurants rather than chains, and prioritise basking in the moment over ticking off every attraction from the travel guide. You might even find that people-watching with an ice cream is more satisfying.

Go Outside

Eating Try to cook from scratch more often, even if it’s just one meal a week to start with. Find a new recipe or recall an old favourite, shop for the ingredients, and set aside time to bring this dish to life.

Eat at a table, without the distraction of a screen. Think to yourself, or chat with your companions: how many colours are on the plate? Where in the world have these foods come from? What flavours am I tasting?

Countless reports have proven that getting outdoors is hugely beneficial, and embracing time in the fresh air is an important part of slow living. From wild swimming to gardening, paddleboarding to a walk around the park, being outside in nature is a wonderful way to slow down and be present.

One mindfulness technique is to consider the senses. Pause and think about five things you can see, four that you can hear, three you can feel, two you can smell and one you can taste. It’ll leave you feeling calm and grateful for the great outdoors.

Be present and intentional Ultimately, this is slow living: a focus on the moment and on the little things that matter most. Allow yourself a chance to rest, to consider what is most important to you, and how you can maximise whatever makes you feel calm and content.

41

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Life&Living

Take it

Slow

in Aylsham

Aylsham, says Sarah Hardy, is a place for foodies to enjoy life in the slow lane

Aylsham,

half way between Norwich and the coast, is perfectly situated to be a popular and thriving market town and, to be honest, it is.

It seems to have managed to dodge the twin assaults of being just a commuter town for Norwich or a second home enclave. Rather, it retains its own character, has good facilities and a very pleasant feel to it, with an old fashioned sense of community.

It’s actually one of just three ‘cittaslow’ towns in Britain - the other two being in Wales, Mold and Llangollen. Italian for slow city, it’s a movement which emerged in the 1990s, encouraging people to embrace a more mindful, less frenetic pace of life. As part of that, priorities are caring for the environment, promoting a healthy lifestyle and celebrating the character of the local area and its producers and businesses.

The town also has a Slow Food group, which furthers campaigns for a better way to eat by celebrating the rich food traditions of the area. Pat Prekopp, chair of both Cittaslow Aylsham and Slow Food Aylsham, says a cornerstone of both groups is the town’s annual food festival, held in the autumn. ‘It takes place on the first weekend in October and includes a gala dinner held with the high school, a Sunday brunch and a farmers’ market.

‘It’s a great way of bringing people together, and especially helps to educate school children about what they eat.’

Stroll around Aylsham and it’s easy to see its appeal, especially for foodies. There’s a busy Market Place, with attractive Georgian buildings, where a flourishing market takes place every Monday and Friday and a farmers’ market on the first Saturday of each month.

One of just three ‘cittaslow’ towns in Britain. Italian for slow city, it’s a movement which emerged in the 1990s, encouraging people to embrace a more mindful, less frenetic pace of life.

There is a first class selection of independent food shops, plus cafes, pubs, tearooms and one of the newest additions is M’s, a fish deli and cocktail bar. Run by Emma Payne, M’s has just opened in part of the former ironmongers, Clarkes, a Grade II listed building which was bought and beautifully renovated by farmer Tim Briscoe in 2018.

Emma explains: ‘It was too good an opportunity to miss and something I have wanted to do for a while. It’s been going really, really well - I couldn’t be more pleased!’

Also in the building is artisan bakery and cafe, Bread Source, who have a real following for their speciality breads.

A third business, a pizza restaurant, is also expected to open soon. Above these shops is a boutique B&B business, Ironmongers, which has eight stylish bedrooms. All individually named and decorated, the rooms are very luxurious, with Tim saying: ‘It’s something different for Aylsham - we don’t offer food or continued on page 45 43

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Life&Living

continued from page 43

drink, rather we want people to pop out and enjoy all the local businesses whether it’s a morning coffee or a fine dining evening meal.’

Another addition to the town is Hodson and Co Cheese Room With Deli which opened in 2020. Chef Charlie Hodson has an amazing cheese counter, offering up to 60 different cheeses, especially local ones, plus chutneys, charcuterie, coffee, biscuits, cereals, sausage rolls, oils and more - with much of the produce locally sourced. His pop- up evening restaurant, held in the deli twice a week, has tables for two or four, and is another great addition for foodies.

Aylsham is lucky enough to have two great butchers; Coxford’s is run

by Johnny Payne and Jason Gibbons and always boasts a really excellent counter display, while GF White’s dates back to 1855.

The Ironmongers

There’s a tempting chocolate shop, Carousel Chocolates, where local and Belgian chocolate is on sale - look out for the handmade Norfolk truffles which are a real treat - and a family-run greengrocers, S&M Brett, who grow many of their own vegetables on their land between Cawston and Aylsham.

Eating out options are also extensive.

Pride of place on the Market Place is The Black Boys, a busy pub with a great reputation for food. Portions are on the hearty side, and meat comes from nearby Swannington Farm to Fork.

Biddy’s Kitchen, which also has a branch in Norwich, is a quirky spot for lunch or one of their splendid afternoon teas where you can choose from a range of 50 loose-leaf teas. In a higgedly piggedly building, next to the parish church, it is full of atmosphere and exceedingly yummy cakes - do try the chocolate orange bread and butter pudding. No more needs to be said!

There’s also the Old Tea Rooms, where a Norfolk cream tea is on offer, The Conservatory is another alternative, where breakfasts are said to be excellent, and Flour and Bean, where you can grab a chunky Cornish pasty to go!

Just on the town’s outskirts are two garden centres, Aylsham Garden Centre, and Woodgate Nursery, which both have excellent cafes where people can Fish Deli at M's

Charlie Hodson. Photo: Mimi Howell

enjoy a refreshment stop as they browse for garden goodies.

So, it’s easy to see that Aylsham has a great range of first class independent shops - there are also great fashion stores, a lovely florist, a design store, and more, plus a smattering of High Street names.

It shows you can shop locally, buying produce either grown or made in the area and thus support businesses where you live, helping to keep cash in the area and ensure jobs are retained, too.

It’s also a lovely way to shop - the way our grandparents did. Moving from one shop to the next, filling our shopping baskets with fresh, seasonal food, produced by people with passion.

It’s slower, it’s simpler and surely a better way of living.

Don’t miss The Big Norfolk Sausage Bash in the town on May 22 which celebrates this family favourite - plus live music.

Find the event on Facebook and Instagram. www.slowfoodaylsham.org.uk www.cittaslow.org 45

All Things

Baby NORWICH

Jemma Stafford from John Lewis & Partners ‘All Things Baby’ Service in Norwich

Babywear, exclusions and T’s & C’s apply.

Here are some of the aspects that we cover in full detail during appointments:

www.johnlewis.co.uk

SLEEP ESSENTIALS Sleep, it’s top of every new parents wish list! Our range of Nursery furniture and bedding meets the highest standards of safety and comfort, so you’ll have peace of mind while your baby enjoys a good night's sleep. We have a good selection of Moses baskets, bedside cribs, cots and cot beds and travel cots to choose from.

talks about the great services on offer to help you through the early years.

Whether

your baby is on the way or about to enter a new stage in their first year's development journey, our Nursery Partners are here to help you with impartial and expert advice.

OUR APPOINTMENTS We offer in-store and virtual appointments so you can access our All Things Baby services at a time and place to suit you.

Our Nursery Experts will help you navigate the information you are given and answer any questions you have. Most importantly, they will always give impartial, tailored advice to suit your lifestyle and your budget. You’ll end up with a personalised shopping list which they will email you for your reference later. Better still all of our appointments are completely free of charge with no minimum spend.

We offer four types of appointments as below and these can all be booked on www.johnlewis.com by visiting the Our services page.

OUT AND ABOUT (one hour, free) We’ll help you find the perfect pushchair, car seat or travel solution.

NEED TO KNOW (30 minutes, free) Do you have a burning question? Want to know about the latest products? We’re here to help.

Bedding & basics Keep your baby cosy and comfortable at night with soft sheets , blankets and sleeping bags, we can offer advice on which is best for you.

NEW BABY A-Z (two hours , free) It can be tricky knowing where to start when preparing for a baby or babies.

With our impartial advice, we’ll help find what works for you.

BABY & BEYOND (up to one hour, free) From weaning to sleep solutions, we can recommend products to help with each of your child’s milestones, from four months to four years.

My John Lewis members who have an All Things Baby appointment receive 10% off on purchases over £750 or 15% on purchases over £1,500 on Nursery and

Scan the QR code to go straight to John Lewis Norwich 'All Things Baby'

Life&Living

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS Pushchairs & prams It’s important to pick a pushchair to suit your family's lifestyle so it fits in as well as your new addition. The right pushchair can carry your baby through from birth to their toddling years. Our range covers everything from traditional pram-style models to compact strollers for busy mums and dads.

FEEDING ESSENTIALS Whether you choose to breast or bottle feed, we can help you prepare with everything you’ll need from muslims and bottle warmers, to sterilisers and bottles.

BATHTIME ESSENTIALS Bath time is a great way to bond and have fun with your baby. Getting your baby into a relaxing bathtime routine can help them settle at bedtime so choosing the right toiletries, toys and towels is essential.

Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo Pushchair & Carrycot, Forest Green £1,530

ALL THINGS BABY EVENTS Join our Nursery team along with our Lingerie and Beauty experts, at our regular events for expectant parents.

Upcoming events: 26 May, 30 June, 28 July, 25 August and 29 September, at 6.15pm and they take place in the Place to Eat Restaurant on the 2nd floor. These parent sessions are free to attend and include information to help you prepare for your new arrival and the chance to discover local organisations to support you from birth and beyond, including; The Birth Preparation company, Liquid Jewels, One to Cherish and the Garage Norwich.

John Lewis & Partners My First Wooden Stacking Rings £10.20

Cybex Cloud Z i-Size Rotating Lie Flat Baby Seat, Autumn Gold £249

Car seats From that first drive home from the hospital, it’s important that you have the right car seat for your baby, and that it fits correctly. There is a large selection of car seats available and we can help you choose the right car seat for you and your car , we offer car seat test fits to make sure the seat you choose fits safely into your car.

To pre-book your place at one of our events visit Nursery at John Lewis, Norwich or email: jemma.stafford@johnlewis.co.uk

BABY CLOTHING Buying beautiful baby clothes is one of the best bits of preparing for your new arrival.

It’s a good idea to get organised well ahead of your due date and have a range of sizes on hand - you can’t predict how big your newborn will be.

We stock everything from vests and bodysuits, to snowsuits and hats.

HOSPITAL BAG ESSENTIALS We can check that you have all your hospital bag essentials packed and ready.

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URN29_Norfolk_1.2019_Vanderbirghider_HP.ai 1 15/02/2019 12:03:44

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4 Hatter Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1LZ Abbeygatecinema.co.uk Screen Arts in MAY

DOWNTON ABBEY: A NEW ERA (PG) continues

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MADNESS (12A) from 5th May A-HA: THE MOVIE (12A) from 20th May TOP GUN: MAVERICK (cert tbc) from 27th May

plus NICK CAVE: THIS MUCH I KNOW TO BE TRUE (cert tbc) showing 11th May ELIZABETH: A PORTRAIT IN PARTS (cert tbc) showing 24th May FAMILY FILMS—Saturdays @ 10.30

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fashion

by Polly Coleman

Hemp on Toast

Fashion

Sustainable

It's no breaking news that fast-fashion is a serious problem and that it contributes significantly to the environmental quality of our world. In fact, the fashion and apparel industry is responsible for approximately one third of all microplastics found in the ocean and less than 1% of fast fashion products are recycled into new garments*.

But how can we help? What can we do?

When there's such a vast array of fast fashion available at our fingertips for such cheap prices, who can blame us for choosing those options? Especially with the cost of living going up more and more by the day. Cheap, fast fashion seems like a quick fix for your night out party wear.

We need to look beyond that and think of the bigger picture. Making sustainable fashion choices is just one small way that we can all help to make a difference.

Let's start exploring brands that focus on quality over quantity and that work ethically to do their bit for the planet.

Norwich-based fashion brand Hemp on Toast focus their designs on the principles of simplicity and versatility. Perfect back-to-basics pieces for day-to-day wear.

Over the next few pages, you'll find a selection of beautiful, eco-friendly and sustainable items, from ethically-minded companies that are all UK-based and doing their bit to care for our world. * Facts sourced from www.ecothes. com/blog/fast-fashion-statistics

COSSAC

Above: Georgie's Dress, £70, Hemp on Toast, www.hempontoast.co.uk

COSSAC aim to create timeless, yet trendy garments that are beautiful, yet ethical. Each quality garment is intended to be transeasonal, with the aim of minimising wastefulness and maximising usefulness.

Right: Print Ecovero Wide Trousers, £148, Print Muliway Scarf, £40, both COSSAC, www.cossac.co

Above: Max's Trousers, £130, Hemp on Toast, www.hempontoast.co.uk

Above: Clay Kimono Style Jumpsuit, £165, COSSAC, www.cossac.co

49

Above: Lemon Bloom Organic Off-White Thick Jumper, £49.99, Nude Ethics, www.nudeethics.com

Above: Valentina Tan Dress, £350, Mother or Pearl, www.motherofpearl.co.uk

Above: Cheryl Top, £55, Tate Organic Mini Skirt, £89 & Baukjen Signature Gold Buckle Belt, £65, all Baukjen, www.baukjen.com

Above: Waffle-Knit Jumper in Sage, £40, Rapanui Clothing, www.rapanuiclothing.com

50

Above: Dani Rose Taupe Sweatshirt, £195, Mother of Pearl, www.motherofpearl.co.uk

Above: Molly Blouse, £99 £99, Baukjen, www.baukjen.com

Above: Fleur Organic Cotton 2-in-1 Maxi Dress, £99, Thought Clothing, www.wearethought.com

Above: Plant Trees Relaxed Fit Tee, £20, Rapanui Clothing, www.rapanuiclothing.com

Above: Cecilia Crossbody Bag, £225, BEEN London, www.been.london

Fashion

Elvis & Kresse

Elvis & Kresse transform London's decommissioned fire-hoses, as well as many other raw materials (all saved from landfill), and turn them into stunning lifestyle accessories.

www.elvisandkresse.com

Above: Tote Bag, £220, Elvis & Kresse Above: Fire & Hide Weekend Bag, £375, Elvis & Kresse

Above: Fire & Hide Crossbody Bag, £175, Elvis & Kresse Above: Fire & Hide Purse, £130, Elvis & Kresse

Above: Fire & Hide Small Post Bag, £210, Elvis & Kresse

Above: Masie Striped Dress in Blue, £115, www.peopletree.co.uk

Above: Jennifer Jumpsuit in Black, £79, www.peopletree.co.uk

People Tree Rena Striped Jumpsuit in Stone, £139, www.peopletree.co.uk

Started in 1991, People Tree use contemporary, versatile designs and exclusive prints inspired by the V&A archives to create stylish, innovative and affordable fashion while respecting people and the planet.

Above: Aliza Broderie Top, £89 £89, www.peopletree.co.uk

Every product is made to the highest ethical and environmental standards from start to finish.

51

Fashion

Bra advice from

your body your choice your you

lingerie expert Beth Kates founder of Liberty & Love

Love the skin you're in then every couple of wears will be fine, but if your bra gets sweaty or dirty, then change it daily."

Finding

a comfortable and supportive bra can be difficult, so it's no surprise that many women get into the habit of wearing one ‘trusty' bra over and over again - until it falls apart.

Lingerie expert Beth Kates founded Liberty & Love an underwear brand passionate about women feeling good every day. She tells us when you should really wash your bra and when it's time to replace it.

WASHING YOUR BRA Lingerie expert Beth revealed that if you've had to ask yourself about how often you need to wash your bra, then you probably aren't washing it enough.

Beth explained that the biggest things to consider when it comes to how often to wash your bras is how oily your skin is and how sweaty you get day-to-day.

"Wash after sport always, any time you sweat it should be washed, otherwise after every two or three times of wearing.

"It seems people don't always stick to this because maybe they don't have enough bras!"

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON'T… If you're caught up in a bad habit of wearing the same bra for weeks on end, there's some nasty truths to be told.

Beth revealed that bacteria, oil, dirt, lotions, yeast and fungi can assemble in your bras if you refrain from washing them.

"As bras are so close to the skin, all the grimy bacteria that has built up over time can cause friction. So follow your instinct - if you haven't been that active,

52

WEARING THE WRONG SIZE BRA From breast and back pain to premature sagging, Beth admitted it's surprising that so many women are wearing the wrong size bra - and it's often due to fear of getting measured.

She said: "There are many ways in which the wrong size bra can contribute to breast pain. If your bra is too small, it can dig into your breasts and contract vessels in the breast tissue.

"Or if it's too big, your breasts can bounce, which could lead to tenderness. You won't have the required support and the breast tissue can stretch leading to lack of shape."

CUPS ARE STRETCHED When you start noticing a significant gap between the bra cups and your breast, it means that either the cups are stretched out or you need a different cup size.

If you notice any changes such as this, it's definitely time to get a new bra, advised Beth.

BACK IS STRETCHED The back of a bra naturally stretches out over time so if you start to notice a ripple effect, it means the elastic has stretched out and your breasts aren't getting the required support.

The expert explained that when the back band is loose and not supporting your back or chest properly, it's a tell tale sign to replace your bra.

UNDERWIRE APPEARS We all know there's nothing quite like the pain of your bra's underwire poking out and digging into your skin.

Beth said while you may be tempted to poke the wire back in, it's a huge sign of wear and tear. If you're wondering when to buy a new bra, this is definitely the time to do so!

Beth said: "Whilst there are many telltale signs that may signal that you need a new bra, sometimes you might want something a bit more luxurious.

"Every bra has its day but it's important to invest in a bra that makes you feel happy and confident."

She wants women to buy underwear for themselves as she advocates ‘your body, your choice, your you. Love the skin you're in.'

Beth is on a mission to change marketing of lingerie to women across the board and aims that through Liberty & Love this will happen.

"At Liberty & Love we are passionate about women feeling good every day.

We want you to buy underwear for you, your body, your life, your choice.

You can have beautiful nightwear for movie nights with the kids and still feel glamorous. You can have beautiful underwear when you are just being you, every day. Your body, your choice, your you. Love the skin you're in." www.libertyandlove.uk

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Head to Fitness Superstore Norwich to try the U628 before you buy!

INSTAGRAM @ChantelHeathFitness www.chantelfitness.co.uk

I'm a 41 year old mother of two & Personal Fitness coach. I work one to one, in person & online with clients aged 18-80. My specialisms include pre & postnatal training, cancer rehab, pilates, & GP exercise referrals.

I run fitness classes online and in person in the Suffolk Coastal area.

I am also a Mental Health First aider.

Being fit

and healthy is so much more than aesthetics. Sure, looking good can make us feel good in the short term, but taking care of your whole body, inside and out will keep you feeling good for years to come!

If you feel like you need to regain control of your health and fitness, make this your starting point. These are the five fundamentals that I use with clients.

Use these to create a solid foundation from which you can build a healthy, fit and resilient body!

HYDRATION Not drinking enough can cause headaches, dizziness, lethargy, trouble concentrating and bloating. Long term it can lead to digestive issues, UTIs and kidney stones! Making sure you are well hydrated helps to regulate your body temperature, keep joints lubricated, help organs function properly, help your mood, and improve mental function.

NUTRITION This doesn’t mean restricting calories and going on a diet! Food fuels your whole body, so you need to ensure you eat a wide variety of foods to meet your body’s needs. Carbohydrates, proteins

Fitness 4 Weeks to a

Healthier You

and fats are all absolutely essential to your well being, but they need to be eaten in the appropriate proportions!

SLEEP Lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep causes so much more than tiredness!

Effects can include memory issues, mood changes, weakened immunity, craving sugary snacks for energy, increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. You’re also at greater risk of mistakes and accidents.

Our bodies are made to move!

If you have a desk-based job it’s really important to plan in movement throughout your day STRESS LEVELS A certain level of stress is completely normal and motivates us to get things done, however when stress levels are too high for a prolonged period we are at risk of a number of serious health conditions; including mental health problems, increased risk of heart attack,

fertility problems, sleep problems, a weakened immune system and day to day symptoms such as headaches, digestive problems and panic attacks.

Managing stress can be as simple as taking some time to yourself each day to relax, or delegating tasks to others.

But if you feel that your stress levels are getting out of control talk to your GP or a Mental Health Charity such as MIND.

DAILY ACTIVITY LEVELS How much do you move on a daily basis? This includes planned exercise as well as all the non-exercise activity we all do each day. Movement is essential in keeping our bodies fit and healthy. Our bodies are made to move! If you have a desk-based job it’s really important to plan in movement throughout your day, maybe going for a walk at lunchtime or after work.

This is my simple 4-week plan to get you on track. You can use my habit tracker, on page 56, each day for motivation, simply tick off each goal that you achieve. continued on page 56 55

Life&Living

Chantel Heath

Life&Living

continued from page 55

WEEK 1

• Monitor your step count each day this week. If you don’t have a smart watch, you can purchase a pedometer for a few pounds online, or most smartphones have a health app which will count your steps.

• Aim to drink 2 litres of water each day (other soft drinks will also count) • Spend 20 minutes each day doing something relaxing such as reading, it can be anything as long as it’s not screen based!

• Aim for 60 minutes of moderate exercise this week. This can be simple activities such as walking. You could split this into shorter sessions throughout the week.

WEEK 2

• Using your average daily step count from last week, set yourself a new daily target 1,000-2,000 steps higher.

• Try to ensure you are including a source of protein at each meal. This will keep you feeling fuller for longer, and is essential for growth and repair throughout your body. Protein rich foods include plain Greek yoghurt, meat, fish, eggs, beans, pulses and tofu.

• Aim for at least 7 hours sleep per night.

To help with this allow your body time to wind down before bedtime by avoiding screens for at least 30 minutes before you go to sleep. This could be a good time for your relaxing activity!

• Aim for 90 minutes of moderate exercise this week. This is easily achieved by just a 15 minute walk each day.

Chicken & quinoa salad One WEEK 3

• Reduce the amount of starchy, refined carbs that you eat. These are what I call ‘beige foods’ and includes things such as white rice, bread and pasta, chips, crisps, pastries, and sweet treats. Replace them with whole wheat versions and lots of delicious colourful veg.

• Pay attention to serving sizes!

Don’t portion your carbs by eye, pay attention to the recommended serving size.

• Aim for 120 minutes of moderate exercise this week.

WEEK 4

• Aim for 150 minutes of exercise this week (this is the minimum for most people recommended by the NHS) • Keep up with all the good habits you have built over the last 4 weeks, they will soon become a normal part of your daily life.

Chantel Heath

56

INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • • • •

50g uncooked quinoa 1/2 Cucumber, diced 100g frozen sweetcorn 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 100g cherry tomatoes , quartered Small bunch coriander, leaves roughly chopped 2 spring onions, sliced Zest and juice 1 lime 1 red chilli, finely chopped 1 avocado

• 2 roasted chicken breasts

Healthy Habit Tracker 7+ hours sleep Daily steps goal Protein at every meal 2+ litres of water Exercise

of the most challenging meals of the day can be the office lunch.

It is so tempting to fill up on sugar and unnecessary junk. A healthy alternative is this prep-ahead chicken and quinoa salad.

Plus, great news, quinoa is gluten free.

In fact, quinoa (pronounced keen–wah) is a natural gluten free wholegrain rich in vitamins, minerals and protein. You can mix up the ingredients so the it doesn't become too repetitive Monday to Friday.

METHOD:

Read/Listen to a chapter Healthy carbs & veg

Roast two chicken breasts in the oven, and set aside when cooked to cool.

Rinse your quinoa in a fine sieve and then add to a pan of boiling water. Stir well and simmer for about 12 minutes or until tender.

Whilst the quinoa is simmering add the sweetcorn to a dry pan and for 5 minuets over a medium heat. Turn occasionally until lightly toasted.

When the quinoa is cooked rinse in a sieve under cold water and then press with a spoon to remove any excess water. Tip the quinoa into a bowl and toss with the olive oil, sweetcorn, tomatoes, coriander, spring onions, lime zest and chilli. Season well with black pepper.

Halve and stone the avocado. Scoop out the flesh with a large metal spoon. Cut into slices and combine with the lime juice. Add the avocado to the salad and toss gently together. If you are taking for a work lunch, serve the salad into resealable containers, then slice the chicken breasts and lay on the top.

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You can Add a safe into a divan base to store your valuables.

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We also have a selection of electric beds to suit all your needs, here at our Norwich mattressman showroom.

Don’t delay, come and see us today!

The largest Hypnos Showroom in Norfolk, inside Mattressman at:

Unit 4, Roundtree Way, Norwich NR7 8SX

The Angel has always had an

exceptional reputation

for excellent food and this remains today.

The head chef Arron Jackson prides himself on using local produce

58

Life&Living

A Taste of

History www.LoveToEatToTravel.com

Kate Morfoot explores The Angel, Bury St Edmunds

The

Angel Hotel is a beautiful four-star ivy-clad Georgian building that is steeped in history located in the historic town of Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk.

The former coaching inn sports a blue plaque marking Charles Dickens’ visits and celebrating the 200th anniversary of his birth. His trips to the town and hotel are immortalized in his novel The Pickwick Papers and more recently when the hotel appeared in the 2020 movie The Personal History of David Copperfield, 185 years after Charles Dickens first stayed there.

“And this,” said Mr. Pickwick, looking up, “is the Angel! We alight here, Sam.” What a beautiful piece of literary history to commemorate a hotel that is still successful today!

THE HOTEL The Angel Hotel is one of the most prestigious in the area, located on Angel Hill, overlooking the Abbey Gardens with a view of St Edmundsbury Cathedral. The hotel's recent refurbishment sports an eclectic urban chic décor with vintage furniture. In the Angel's Lounge there are plenty of comfortable sofas to relax on, making it the perfect place for spending time with friends and family enjoying afternoon tea or having business meetings.

The Angel Bar has an air of grandeur with its large wooden bar and oak herringbone flooring. There are seven

different cask ales and beers, and a cocktail list inspired by the fables and tales surrounding the hotel and Bury St Edmunds. Bury is home to Greene King Brewery and their IPA beers are well worth a try! The dining room is spacious and well laid out and has beautiful furniture with references to Charles Dickens.

THE ROOMS After a quick and easy check-in, the porter carried our bags to our luxurious suite that was located on the third (top floor) of the hotel, giving us a wonderful

view overlooking Bury’s Georgian Square and the cathedral.

The bedroom was quiet, light, spacious and beautifully decorated with a comfortable king-sized bed.

There was a work desk, ample wardrobe space, tea and coffee making facilities and an old fashion, gold, dial tone telephone by the bed.

The ensuite had a large walk-in shower, Anyah eco-toiletries and fluffy bath robes. However it was the beautiful, shiny copper bath that took centre stage, set off by the black and white tiled floor.

THE FOOD The Angel ‘Eaterie’ restaurant is lively and stylishly designed with many tables with good views overlooking The Abbey.

The Angel has always had an exceptional reputation for excellent food, and this remains today; the head chef, Arron Jackson, prides himself on using local produce which changes regularly. Combined with excellent service, the friendly team pulls out all the stops to ensure everyone has a great time while enjoying delicious food. We tried the garlic prawns (£5) and crispy whitebait (£5) with our pre-dinner drinks.

We were spoilt for choice on the starter’s continued on page 61 59

HOLIDAY HOMES IN NORFOLK & SUFFOLK

01493 730279 • 07375 297388 holidays@theseaside.org

@eastcoasthideaways @ECH_Norfolk @eastcoasthideaways

01692 651603 www.eastcoasthideaways.co.uk hello@eastcoasthideaways.co.uk

www.beachside-holidays.co.uk Wakefield Court Beach, California, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR29 3QT

Garden Cottage, Walcott Road, Broomholm, Bacton, Norfolk, NR12 0EY

CANADIAN CANOE, DOUBLE KAYAK, SINGLE KAYAK & STAND-UP PADDLEBOARD HIRE

Along the North Walsham and Dilham Canal, launching from Tonnage Bridge (NR28 9PW) • Open from April-October, 7 days a week • Early Bird Session: 9:30am-11:30am • Afternoon Session: 12pm-6pm Life jackets and paddles provided. Free parking, water and toilet facilities on-site. Self-launch: £5/boat.

To book, go to: www.dilhamhall.co.uk/canoe-hire, scan the QR code above or call us on the number below.

01692 513889 Dilham, North Walsham, Norfolk, NR28 9PW hello@dilhamhall.co.uk • www.dilhamhallretreats.co.uk

Life&Living

continued from page 59

menu. The lower priced option was parsnip soup and homemade bread (£7), chicken and ham hock terrine with pickled vegetables (£8). More expensive starters included pan-fried scallops, cauliflower, black pudding and apple (£15), and monkfish cheeks, braised puy lentils, salsa verde and crispy Parma ham (£12).

For my main course, I chose Suffolk’s famous Blythburgh pork fillet accompanied by a potato rosti, fennel puree, cabbage, bacon and cider sauce (£19), which was delicious. A nod to Dickens was ‘Pickwick Pie’ — wild venison, garlic and rosemary with new potatoes and root vegetables (£17).

Slow-roasted chicken with fondant potatoes and chargrilled leek (£16).

Aged 10oz sirloin steak, shallot with triple cooked chips (£28), monkfish fillet, pickled mushrooms, baby spinach and parsnip puree with clam butter

sauce (£22) and beer battered haddock and chips (£15) were also fabulous offerings on the varied menu.

The pudding choices consisted of a mixture of the traditional with one ‘wildcard!’ which was cheese on toast! Malt loaf, Compté with honey and fig (£9). The pudding was unusual, a totally unique combination of flavours which worked superbly well! For less avant-garde puddings, there was chocolate orange torte (£8), steamed ginger sponge (£7),

and baked white chocolate ice cream with salted caramel popcorn (£5.50).

For those who love cheese, an extensive cheese selection is offered including Tunworth, Pitchfork Cheddar, Driftwood, Dorset Blue Vinny and Baronet. All five cheeses are priced at (£19) or three cheeses for (£13) served with lavosh crackers, membrillo quince, chutney and Eccles cake.

As you would expect from a four-star hotel, there was an extensive cocktail, wine, port and pudding wine list.

To round off your luxurious stay, enjoy a tremendous English Breakfast, served with a smile! The Angel Hotel doesn’t disappoint in terms of an amazing team pulling out all the stops to ensure a memorable break, whether it’s for one night or longer.

THINGS TO KNOW Book a table between 5pm and 6pm Monday to Friday and take advantage of their early bird menu for just £29pp.

THINGS TO DO Bury St Edmunds offers a mixture of cultural heritage with the Abbey Gardens and ruins, St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Moyse's Hall Museum and cobbled streets. Wandering around this part of the Georgian town mixed with lots of independent shops just five seconds walk from the hotel is a perfect setting. Visit The Nutshell Pub, Britain’s smallest pub, measuring 15ft by 7ft, which has been serving since 1867! Then head to Wright’s Café for the poshest cheese on toast in town.

Check out Greene King Brewery with a rich heritage of over 200 years brewing in Bury St Edmunds offers tours and tastings.

The Angel 3 Angel Hill, Bury St. Edmunds IP33 1LT Rooms can be booked from £99 per person for Dinner, Bed and Breakfast PARKING: Parking is available at the back of The Angel Hotel and a porter service is offered to all guests Phone: 01284 714000 www.theangel.co.uk

61

Great hearing

STARTS WITH US

YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT IS STILL BETTER VALUE THAN NATIONAL RETAILERS FOR DIGITAL HEARING AIDS! *

AT BROADLAND HEARING CARE YOU ARE OUR MAIN PRIORITY. WE OFFER BESPOKE HEARING SOLUTIONS, COMBINED WITH TAILORED CUSTOMER SERVICE TO MAKE SURE YOUR REQUIREMENTS ARE ALWAYS MET. Barry Jones is a highly-skilled Audiologist with over 14 years in the profession.

WHY COME TO US...

3

You’re not just a NUMBER

At Broadland Hearing Care we pride ourselves on understanding your needs and take our time to get to know you, so that we can offer you a solution that complements your lifestyle.

~ Here, you’ll always get the time and attention you need.

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We hold onto HIGHER STANDARDS

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Experienced & highly trained EXPERTS ~ Here, we will guide you with every step of your journey.

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A local business with progressive VALUES ~ We do whatever it takes to send you home happy and satisfied.

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OLD FASHIONED customer service

For all your hearing requirements: 3 3

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Don’t let hearing loss hold you back, call Broadland Hearing Care today on 01692 661080 and get your confidence back and reconnect with life.

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Comprehensive hearing consultation Wax removal service Latest ‘healthable’ technology Rechargeable hearing instruments All-make hearing aid repairs

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t: 01692 661080 · e: enquiries@broadlandhearingcare.co.uk

visit our website: www.broadlandhearingcare.co.uk

Life&Living

koo C u cLodge Visitors

to the Holkham Estate now have a unique opportunity to stay overnight in Cuckoo Lodge, a charming rural escape in the heart of north Norfolk.

Surrounded by spectacular countryside and an easy drive to Wells-next-the-Sea, The Victoria and Holkham Beach, the selfcatered cottage is the perfect base for a relaxing getaway for couples, families and furry friends.

Located just outside the south-east corner of Holkham Park and discreetly tucked away down a long farm track, Cuckoo Lodge boasts plenty of character and a large outdoor space. Whilst still retaining its original 1860s cottage charm, the lodge has been refurbished with chic style and comfort in mind.

Inside, the lodge is a cosy and homely space. Guests can cook up a storm in the newly fitted kitchen, play board games in the living room or cuddle up with a good book in front of the wood-burning stove. The light filled dining area leads out onto the garden, an idyllic spot for afternoon lounging or alfresco dining. Upstairs there is a master bedroom with views to the sea, a twin room and a family bathroom.

Set within 25,000 acres on the majestic north Norfolk coast, Holkham is a breathtaking outdoor paradise. With expansive landscapes to explore, the Holkham

National Nature Reserve and golden sandy beaches, visitors to Cuckoo Lodge can experience an abundance of outdoor space and activities. Whether guests wish to explore the scenic routes of Holkham Park by renting a bike, or enjoy one of the many carefully curated walking trails, Cuckoo Lodge provides the perfect oasis to come back to after a full day of relishing all the rich wildlife and history Holkham has to offer.

Cuckoo Lodge is one of Holkham’s six unique and enchanting parkland lodges.

Visitors can also choose to stay in the woodland hideaway that is Palmers Folly, the Grade II listed and very romantic gatehouse Palmers Lodge, S.S Teulondesigned South Lodge East and South Lodge West, and the exemplary Grade I listed Triumphal Arch designed by the renowned architect William Kent. All six lodges offer comfortable, stylish décor that aims to reflect their rich history.

Cuckoo Lodge Sleeps up to 4 guests with 2 pets allowed From £140 per night £977 per week Electric car charging point available.

For more information and to book visit www.norfolkcottages.co.uk www.holkham.co.uk

63

House&Home

Garden MAY

with Tom

Tom Strowlger @garden_with_tom

The

month of May brings us gardeners such joy and pleasure; the longer and warmer days really do bring our gardens to life.

We can enjoy the outside much more and get excited about the forthcoming summer months. However, before we get comfortable in our deckchair, the preparation for our summer garden isn’t quite done, so let’s use this month to tick a few more jobs off our gardening list.

The lawn grass will now be enjoying the warmer weather so we can cut it more frequently, but not too short as we want the grass to flourish in the summer months.

A longer grass leaf supports a healthier lawn, as longer grass can help the lawn cope with dry spells. If you have any bare patches in your lawn, then this would be an ideal time to hand sow grass seed into gaps to ensure germination in time for summer.

May is considered the last month for planting summer bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers including Gladioli, Freesia, Begonia and Dahlia. We want them to make sure they fully

establish and achieve the growth and flowers during the peak summer season. Dahlia is a floral favourite of mine and they can be planted this month to get a summer flower display that will delight us all the way to the first frost in autumn. Dahlias will thrive in welldrained soil with full sun.

The new green vines of climbers like Clematis, Jasmine, Wisteria and Honeysuckle should be tied and supported onto a fence, arch or wall. We can use green string, plant rings and wire to secure them. We want our climbers to successfully flower, look neat and tidy, and to grow into the shape we want, plus prevent vine and branch damage on windier days.

I am hand sowing summer annuals into gaps in the beds and borders. The seeds include Californian Poppy, Cosmos, Borage, Cornflower and Daisy. We need to make sure the seed settles into raked soil, with a gentle watering every few days. These is nothing better than filling these gaps with even more summer floral colour.

The seeds we sow and the plants we grow will need to be kept moist to keep them growing happily throughout the warmer months. We should water our plants early in the morning or later in the evening, this ensures the water gets into the ground and evaporation is minimised. Do remember to water at the base of plants to get the water into the root systems.

Many of the spring bulbs will have flowered and flourished and be at the end of their growing season, therefore we can carefully lift and divide any overcrowded daffodils and spring flowering bulbs and plant into new areas of the garden ready for next spring’s display.

We should take extra care to notice leaf eating lily beetles on our lilies and nutrient sucking aphids on green shoots. We can use an old toothbrush to brush off the lily beetles and grubs and a soap based water to spray off the aphids. These techniques will need to be repeated every week to achieve the best growing and flowering results.

The wildlife in the garden will be very active at this time of year, they will be feeding up their hungry youngsters. When doing any garden projects, we should check for nests and wildlife as we wouldn’t want to disturb them whilst they tend to their cherished youngsters.

As a passionate gardener I delight in the month of May because we can look back on our springtime gardening achievements with a cheerful smile and yet marvel in what is still to come in the summertime.

Please do follow me on Instagram @garden_with_tom for more seasonal gardening advice and tips.

This month's

TOP TIPS: Support your tall and delicate plants with plant supports and canes Keep pulling up fast growing weeds by the roots Open greenhouse windows and doors on warm days Clean bird baths and feeders Treat wooden garden furniture

65

Life&Living

SECRET

PAID CONTENT

y t u a Be

Photographer Tanya Mayfield is on a mission to help all women find their Secret Beauty, discovers Elizabeth Parker. @secret_beauty.uk www.secretbeautyuk.com

Tanya Mayfield

has always loved photography and understands how a great image can capture a story. Portraits have always been her main focus, especially as they can capture such emotion. Eventually her specialism settled on finding the secret beauty within every women through her boudoir photography.

Tanya was born with a deformity in her right leg. Her tibia bone never grew, which resulted in her having to have her right leg amputated below the knee just before she was a year old.

"Growing up was difficult, but I'd like to think I took everything in my stride.

I had a loving supportive family, my mum, dad and brother were my rocks and I was lucky enough to have lots of amazing friends who always treated me as an equal." Tanya explained. "That being said, it’s not until you're older and now having children of my own that I can really reflect on what I avoided with a brave face... and actually how much I had struggled."

"I have always tried to appear confident, with a big smile, but of course I did always feel like the ugly duckling amongst my friends. I have always been a little envious of them.

How I wished I could look. Unknown to me was that all of my friends, and I would say most women, were feeling the same way with their own insecurities and hangups."

After having a boudoir photography session herself Tanya thought about taking the leap and creating her business for many years. "I’ve had a shoot and it completely changed the way I saw myself. I mean just to see a picture from another angle rather than 66

front on. A day I will never forget. Just seeing myself in these photos was so empowering."

From this point on Tanya wanted to recreate the same feeling for other women. Empowering them and helping create a positive and confident body image. Body image and self-esteem directly influence one another.

"I wanted to do it even more, create my own business, have a studio and a dressing room." Tanya continued.

"So I talked and talked about boudoir photography for about five years.

I would annoy my friends to pose for me, practicing and learning.

Because I worked full time managing a residential home, alongside working for my husband's building business and being a mum to two children, it was a challenge to fit in the time to develop my skills further. At first my friends thought I was mad doing the shoots unpaid... but I believe it's art. I wanted to practice and learn all different body shapes before I put myself out there."

After a several years honing her skills Tanya took the jump to set up her photography business. "I am still so surprised with the hangups I hear; small eyes, big thighs, wonky nose, no bum, big bum, moles, birthmarks, you name it I’ve heard it all. I always play the leg card back! Then we can laugh about it.

In some ways I'm a bit of an Agony Aunt.

I always chat with my ladies first. It helps take the edge off before you come along to the shoot."

Tanya then explained to me what it was like on the day. "It's much more

simple and enjoyable than you think — it's the whole experience that makes it so amazing — a beautiful private studio/ dressing room. It is all about celebrating who you are; hair, makeup, taking time out just for you."

Tanya continued "Any clothing that makes you feel good, it doesn't have to be underwear or be exposed - it's your comfort level. I always think less is more, but whatever you decide I have your back. I will guide my ladies into simple positions that highlight and flatter their best assets on their body shape. The whole experience is tailored to you to ensure you feel comfortable, as well as being happy with the photographs you will cherish for years to come."

Tanya remembered back to her own shoot several years ago, "Yes it is nerveracking at first. I can't lie to you, but that's good, it means you have excitement in your belly... after 20 minutes you feel much more relaxed. I understand it's daunting and so hard being so vulnerable. Although if you can overcome that hurdle in front of just one person... just me... if you can put your trust in me, we can work together and I will help guide you to feeling amazing and show you your beauty."

"We talk a lot, I sure do! We laugh.

We have fun. Looking back, you won't ever regret having a shoot done. It’s one step of learning to love yourself. I think every woman should have one in her lifetime, it's like a form of therapy. I think I will forever learn in this line of work and forever be able to create more and more beautiful pictures. Every woman is beautiful; its just about having the confidence, and a boudoir shoot is a perfect way to show yourself how beautiful you truly are."

Great Diamonds Great value Great Yarmouth

Find your Diamond at

3-4 Northgate Street, Great Yarmouth Tel: 01493 842719

coxandson.co.uk