Places & Faces 170 - March 2025

with

Sandip Bhogal

INTERIOR DESIGN DUO

Laura & Katie

to the March issue. Spring is teasing us with the occasional sunny afternoon, only to follow up with a chilly reminder that winter still has a few tricks up its sleeve. But fear not—we’ve packed this issue with plenty of inspiration to shake off those last winter blues!

This month, we’re celebrating remarkable women in our community, diving into Norwich’s must-visit spots, and getting the inside scoop on the much-anticipated relaunch of Cosmo. If food is your love language, we’ve got you covered with everything from floral cupcakes to Bungay butter chicken (just don’t read while hungry). And for those looking to refresh their homes, fashion, or fitness routines, we have expert advice on colour trends, seasonal chic, and a few tips to keep you moving as we head into brighter days. So, grab a cuppa (or something stronger—no judgment here) and settle in for another issue packed with the best of our region. As always, thanks for reading and for being part of the Places&Faces family.

Enjoy!

Andrew Hirst EDITOR

CONTRIBUTORS: Andrew Hirst, Mel March, Polly Coleman, Charlie Smith-Knight, Gemma Mathers, Victoria Mayo

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VISIBLE WOMAN

Throughout history, women have used art to express their experiences, advocate for their rights, and celebrate

their lives, writes Anna Johnson.

International

Women’s Day on 8 March is all about the stories of women and is something that Norwich Theatre will be celebrating in their International Women’s Day free two-day event Visible Woman at Norwich Theatre Stage Two.

Local female artists and creatives are responding to their own personal journey’s and stories of transformation, reinvention and identity. Visible Woman offers visitors a relaxed,

social environment. Come with your friends, grab a drink, and explore multi-sensory responses for International Women’s Day. The building will come to life an immersive event with performances and talks with artists, writers, and other performers.

We spoke to some of the inspiring creatives from the Wise, Bold, Visible Woman group to get an insight into their work.

Caroline Chouler-Tissier, a local artist, builds a 3D Volcano with

coloured material overflowing out. She hopes to symbolise the “imagery around energy and the force holding everything together”.

She mentions there is a “rawness of emotion” with volcanoes that can connect us to earth yet can be a destructive force much like humanity ourselves.

The piece also represents our relationship with the environment and how for Caroline “going into nature keeps [her] grounded”.

The importance of getting together as

women is that for Caroline “everybody’s got a different lived experience” that can be shared. As women we all have “difficult journeys to keep your own identity” so this is a great way to reclaim it.

She hopes people will gain “confidence in themselves” after the performance. For Billy Horsea, she hopes the audience will enjoy the “celebration of women” that is all together “colourful, imaginative, and rich”.

Billy’s piece is a she-wolf that

Going out

represents our place in nature as for her “we are not separate from it” and it is “unfortunate if we don’t recognise that as we will destroy more of our environment”.

Pam Uden, became involved in the project “because we’ve come from different backgrounds and these days you think that you are the only one that may have suffered but hearing all these stories makes you no longer feel alone”

Andrea Paton feels the same, she wants the event to be “thoughtprovoking” and a chance to express herself.

Going out

Her art piece utilises her skills as a writer hanging labels that could apply to older women some positive, others not: daughter, sister, spinster. All in a canopy that will be around her that other artists described to be like a jellyfish. She feels it is important to “give some visibility to middle–aged women” because they are often forgotten in society.

She has found getting together with other female artists to be “really positive” and “inspiring” and for Kirsten Riley, she feels the group to be “very important” and wonderful as they can “think outside of the box”.

For her it is paramount to “do some crazy stuff occasionally”.

Kirsten’s piece is “inspired by a drawing [her] grandson did of [her] picking [her] nose which he thought was hilarious”. But it made her think about the role of being a grandmother and how “grandmas have different meanings for different people like in fairytales”.

Exploring the roles women take on she compares how they are conceived versus how they feel to be.

Through her art she discovers the “journeys that you go through as a woman”.

As the performance is a celebration of women Kirsten mentions women “have a very important voice in society, it is important to let that voice be heard”, she continues “people fought for us, we should keep that going”.

The International Women’s Day 2025 campaign theme is 'Accelerate Action'.

At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158 to reach full gender parity, according to data from the World Economic Forum.

The IWD Charity states “focusing on the need to Accelerate Action emphasizes the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality. It calls for increased

momentum and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women face.”

The action some of the women want to see is to “give women more opportunities to do those things that are important” according to Kirsten. Andrea wants “more presence of women” in the media and Pam believes “there is still judgement” on women that “we have to fight for all the time”. Kirsten believes there needs to be more fairness, so women don’t “think they have to be a certain type of woman to do something or to have a certain type of education”.

From preparing for the performance, Caroline mentioned “that’s why

Norwich theatre is brilliant, it provides those opportunities” to express yourself creating a “massive feedback into the community”.

You can catch the artists from Wise, Bold, Visible, Woman and other creatives. Engage in open discussions and champion unheard voices and the power of women at

Visible Woman

Norwich Theatre Stage Two 7 Mar 6-9 pm and 8 Mar 12-4 pm, free to attend just book.

For more information or to book, visit norwichtheatre.org or call the Box Office on 01603 630 000

Norwich Theatre explores the shape of family in 10th Creative Matters season

From multi-generational households to chosen families, from kinships to blended families, the word family can be just as complex as the relationships themselves. This is why Norwich Theatre has chosen to explore what it means to be a family and the everevolving nature of family life in its 10th Creative Matters season, Creative Matters: The Shape of Family

The season will reflect the vast spectrum of experiences that make up modern families today and will use a mixture of performances, film, workshops, and art to stimulate discussion and make connections through creativity.

Sam Dawson, Head of Creative Engagement at Norwich Theatre, said: “The Shape of Family aims to explore the more challenging side of the family construct and the issues we all face, yet are often unspoken from loss and what we inherit to the meaning of family and how it may be redefined. It’s also about quiet, unspoken relationships. It’s about the people who become your family when blood doesn’t tie you.”

Workshops, performances and events will be announced throughout the year but check out some of the latest opportunities to get involved.

Yee haw! Carrie Hope Fletcher stars in Calamity Jane

West End leading lady and social media star Carrie Hope Fletcher is putting on her cowboy boots to star in the musical comedy classic Calamity Jane based on the much-loved Doris Day movie. We sat down with her ahead of the show, arriving at Norwich Theatre Royal (8 - 12 Apr), to have a chat:

What made you want to go for the role?

My mum had always said I would be a good Calamity Jane, and through the entirety of my adult career, she has always said she would love to see me playing the part. It’s her dream role for me. So I looked into it, listened to the songs, and watched the movie, and I fell in love with it.

How do you feel about the character now that you have got the role?

I am relatively new to the whole world of Calamity Jane, but it’s a dream role in terms of her as a character. She is a romantic lead, gets a great love story, has an amazing female friendship with Katie Brown and gets all the cracking, belty numbers. She ticks all of those boxes, and it’s so wonderful she’s not just an ingenue or the soppy romantic or just a comedy character; she is all of it. Parts like that are really rare, and she has been great fun to get to know.

How would you describe Calamity Jane?

A gun-slinging, whip-cracking woman prone to making a few blunders and mistakes.

How do you feel about your brother Tom following you into musical theatre?

It has been amazing seeing Tom move into musical theatre. People who have been in the most recent workshops of Paddington [a musical Tom is working on] are good friends of mine, so it’s great to have our worlds merge.

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No burpees required. Norfolk’s natural environment could be the answer to a gentler approach to finding betterment and peace of mind in 2025 says Mel March of VisitNorwich.co.uk

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD GETTING

the best out of a visit to any city or destination in my opinion is to experience it like a local. It can be overwhelming arriving somewhere and not knowing what to do or where to head off first to make the most of your valuable time.

I But actually, can we hand on heart say we know the areas we live and visit frequently as much as we could? I talk to people all the time who have lived in Norfolk most of their lives but haven’t visited some of our fantastic museums or attractions, or booked tickets for an experience that would give further insight into where they call home. And in Norfolk we are spoilt for choice with our 90-miles of coastline, 125 km of navigable Broads and atmospheric, cultured capital city. Our smorgasbord of food produce that makes its way onto the plates of our independent eateries, from tiny bakeries and local pubs to cafes and restaurants. While our mix of diverse venues and festivals offering one-off events, school holiday activities and tickets - free and charged -

recognises all situations and pockets.

Norwich is a city blessed in recent years with an enormous list of walking tours full of delicious local stories, historic facts and incredible people. These tours are often around 90 minutes, cost £8+ and take us to places we might have missed if we were exploring by ourselves. I love that you get into it with a walking tour - time to explore slowly, to ask questions of your guide – time to take it all in.

This spring we have a couple of fantastic new tours. The first is Victorian Norwich with Paul Dickson (16 March and other dates, £9pp, plus a series of tours taking place during English Tourism Week: 15 – 24 March), and the second is Her Story Walk (April, £10) from Norwich Story Walks.

Victorian Norwich is an addition to an already diverse series lead by Paul Dickson. Peeling back the layers of Norwich’s incredible history in detail, there’s a lot to learn from each and every one that you take. Paul’s latest is a 2-hour exploration celebrating the city’s 19th century architecture, industry,

shopping and culture.

Victorian Norwich takes in Colman’s Mustard, Caley’s Chocolate, the Norwich Union and the shoe industry. From 5 April, the tour will also incorporate a visit to Bowhill & Elliott on London Street – Norwich’s only surviving shoe manufacturer who last year celebrated 150 years in business. Here, the present owner Marc Debieux will give a talk in-store about Bowhill & Elliott’s history of creating fabulous Albert slippers, dress slippers and house slippers. To this day they are still as popular as ever, being purchased by fans, celebs and fashionistas from across the world. And let it be known, locals shopping in-store get a £50 discount!

Her Story Walk is the latest from Norwich’s most recent guide – Siv Sears of Norwich Story Walks. Siv is an animated and witted guide, making him the perfect addition to all the walks that can be booked around Norwich. Her Story Walk is an important one. This walk showcases some of the remarkable and most fascinating women from Norwich who made incredible social changes,

Paul Dickson Tours Erpingham Gate, Norwich Cathedral

PHOTO: Daniel Wildey

ones that we still uphold today.

Learn about Julian of Norwich, a woman many from this area will be familiar with, as well as Jenny Lind, Boudicca and Elizabeth Fry. But also hear the fascinating life stories of Amelia Opie and Harriet Martineau, who is celebrated annually at the National Centre for Writing’s City of Literature Festival as part of Norfolk & Norwich Festival.

The Harriet Martineau Lecture celebrates the legacy of this worldchanging woman by inviting globally renowned radical speakers to respond to her life and work. The 2025 lecture will be delivered by award-winning novelist Val McDermid on Saturday 24 May at Sir Peter Mancroft with tickets available now to book (12pm, £14-£10.00 U18/Young NNF).

Don’t think your adventure has to end here. Follow a tour or event with a bit more walking – it will be worth it! This time under your own steam to Redwell Taphouse near Whitlingham for a local brew and a bite to eat from the Redwell Vault Pizzeria. Plus, on Sundays into spring, they have an extra special treat with The Giant Yorkie Roast Co. serving roast dinners inside a huge Yorkshire pudding (prices £14.50 with half portions for children at £8.50).

Norwich is a city where old meets now and nothing proves this more than the Sainsbury Centre’s newest exhibitions opening this month. Continuing its series of investigative exhibitions, 2025 sees a new programme charting a course through the story of the world’s oceans and the precarious future they may be heading towards.

The Sainsbury Centre’s series of one-off exhibitions have a reputation (deservedly so) of exhibiting thoughtproving works side by side which in any other setting might not work. And this month is no different.

Featuring contemporary art, historical paintings, ancient atlases and maps from across the globe, three concurrent exhibitions explore Can the Seas Survive Us? Opening 15 March and running until 3 August, see A World of Water and Darwin in Paradise Camp: Yuki Kihara, followed by Sea Inside (7 June – 26 October).

It is of course Mother’s Day this month, so any of the experiences mentioned here would make great presents for a very special mum. And with flowers synonymous with this celebration day

of the mothers and mother figures in our lives, I can’t let slip mention of the great outdoors. Walks amongst budding foliage, delicate snowdrops and long beaches are all events that can be organised for a big group of family members- not forgetting that theatre tickets, relaxing beauty treatments and a bite to eat all go down a storm too!

Finally, if you have a foodie in the family, then a Sausage Making Workshop at The Goat Shed might be just the ticket (£60 for three hours). Or a Cheese Making Course (£95) for a day, which includes the science behind the process, a tour of their state-of-the-art Dairy, and a hands-on experience making your very own cheese.

In fact, The Goat Shed website (goatshed.co.uk) is worth keeping an eye on with regular events taking place, such as their community ‘Hoof It Around Honningham’ walks (free, 5k, dogs welcome, first Monday of each month), Cow Club (£5, under 3s free) and their new Chief Herder Goat Experience (coming soon).

For booking details and other events go to www.visitnorwich.co.uk.

Yuki Kihara_Two Fa'afafine on the Beach (after Gauguin) (2020)

Norwich Story Walks

Evan Ifekoya, Contoured Thoughts, 2019

Bowhill and Elliott, Norwich

The Forequarter is an artisan butchers based on Earsham Street, Bungay.

We are surrounded by so many great producers who have a passon for the animals they rear. We work closely with them, and local abattoirs to source our meat.

We look forward to seeing you. Find us on

ART MUSEUM ASKS CAN THE SEA SURVIVE US?

THROUGH THREE EYE-OPENING EXHIBITIONS

As sea levels rise, oceans are also warming, becoming more acidic and containing less oxygen. The United Nations describe the oceans as “overwhelmed” as humans overfish, pollute, and destroy habitats, with the ocean’s health declining at an “alarming rate”.

In the latest season of exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre, the art museum asks: Can the Seas Survive Us? through a series of three exhibitions which chart a course through the story of the world’s oceans.

Can the Seas Survive Us? feature contemporary art, historical paintings, ancient atlases and maps from across the globe. The season maps a journey through the stories of our seas and the precarious futures they may hold, whilst delving into humanity’s complex relationship with them and the need for us to live in harmony with the water that connects us.

Exhibitions consider the seas’ fluidity as a powerful metaphor; ranging from our need to navigate a way through turbulent times, to champion and learn from Indigenous knowledge and seize the opportunities presented by the sea as a regenerative, sustainable energy source. Shows recognise the seas’ relentless, destructive power in ways that are crucially felt and experienced by low-lying small island nations such as the Maldives and Kiribati, along with coastal communities, including several here in Norfolk.

A World of Water (15 March – 3 August 2025) brings together works by British and international artists from as early as 1540 to the present day, who have all offered a unique perspective of evolving marine ecosystems and oceanic habitats. Taking the North Sea and the historical relationship between Norfolk and the Netherlands as its starting point, the exhibition looks at the human impact on the sea. The show features a dozen artists with connections to Norfolk and Suffolk, including contemporary artists like

Maggi Hambling as well as Norwich School artists John Crome, Robert Ladbrooke and George Vincent. Plus, local scenes depicted by J.M.W. Turner.

Multiple items are also on loan from the Norfolk Record Office, including maps from as old as the 16th century, as well as the Dutch Orders and Dutch and Walloon Strangers Books, which documented the arrival and regulation of Dutch and Walloon workers to Norwich. These records outline their rights, professions, and rules, detailing how their expertise in textiles and agriculture transformed Norwich.

Darwin in Paradise Camp: Yuki Kihara (15 March – 3 August 2025) presents a UK premiere of Paradise Camp, a celebrated work by Yuki Kihara, which will be exhibited alongside newly commissioned work titled Darwin Drag. The work looks to reclaim past narratives of third and fourth genders in Sāmoa – both human and marine – through photography and audio-visual work.

Opening in June, Sea Inside (7 June – 26 October 2025) features experimental contemporary artworks from across a range of media

Artworks explore the ways the oceans have been domesticated, reimagined on a bodily scale and brought inside to be tamed, contained or better understood.

Director of the Sainsbury Centre, Jago Cooper, says: “The oceans cover more than 70% of the planet; it is the life source of the natural world, an eternal expanse of more than a billion cubic kilometres of marine habitat. Yet what do these seas say about the state of nature today and our relationship with it?

“From wind farms populating the North Sea and plastics filling the Pacific, to toxic algal blooms appearing and beautiful creatures disappearing, what really lies below the surface of these stories and ultimately: Can the Seas Survive Us?”

Parking is free, or hop on the 25 bus from Norwich City Centre and get off at University, Chancellor’s Driveplus lots of other bus links to the UEA, including Park and Ride.

Can the Sea Survive Us? runs from 15 March to 26 October at the Sainsbury Centre in Norwich. Pay If and What You Can – no need to book.

IMAGE: YUKI KIHARA, TWO FA’AFAFINE ON THE BEACH (AFTER GAUGUIN) (2020)

COSMO

by Charlie Smith-Knight

On 13 February COSMO in Norwich reopened after a brief hiatus for refurbishment and I was kindly invited to attend to sample the relaunched menu. I have to say the timing was excellent and gave my husband and I the perfect pre-Valentines night out where we whispered those 4 little magic words to one another: all you can eat. Having been encouraged to bring some guests, my sister and her partner dropped their kids into the custody of the grandparents and I was able to live out my Carrie Bradshaw dreams by getting us all in under ‘press’ status.

What are they offering:

In their own words, ‘COSMO Authentic World Kitchen is inspired by the best five-star hotels in the world, which bring a choice of fresh food under the same roof and elevate the buffet concept to new levels’. Time to test the theory.

What are you getting:

First tip try not to be late. I am fully aware it’s bad form any way (I unashamedly blame the traffic on the A47) and our tardiness was compounded when we finally rocked up to find a queue round the leather clad waiting area. To say, it was

As the host advised, Cosmo is a marathon, not a sprint & my husband’s methodical approach of collecting a separate plate of food from each section, had me questioning why he doesn’t apply this level of multi-tasking to household chores.

The relaunch

busy is an understatement. However, it didn’t take long before we were ushered up the escalator to the bustling restaurant floor, where we were greeted with an open plan buffet space interspersed with individual chef stations serving everything from fresh sushi, to steamed bao buns, carvery meats, American hot dogs and Italian pizzas. My eyes immediately knew they were bigger than my belly, but I was committed to my research.

The recently refurbed restaurant area is clean and well-appointed with

ample seating space and cosy lighting. Now, this is not a silver service dining experience, but the team were wellversed in what they are off ering. We were quickly greeted for a drinks order and talked through how the service works. Which is essentially, grab a plate and have at it. Not their exact words, but the sentiment is pretty on point. The drinks arrived quickly but there was already a dust outline where my husband had been sitting.

As the host advised, Cosmo is a marathon, not a sprint and my husband’s methodical approach of collecting a separate plate of food from each section, had me questioning why he doesn’t apply this level of multi-tasking to household chores. I, on the other hand, wandered lost for at least 10 minutes before returning to the table with a handful of nachos and a disproportionate amount of cheese from the cheese fountain. I didn’t think they worked in real life, having seen that viral video of the kid who tries it at home, only to have it spiral out of control and nearly rip his face off.

Thankfully, no such issues here. If you are a fan of liquefi ed foodstuff, Cosmo has you covered for savoury and sweet, thanks to the aforementioned cheese fountain at the nacho station and chocolate fountain on the dessert section. The latter of which I considered putting my head in, ala the Vicar of Dibley but I was thankfully distracted by bread pudding just before I let my intrusive thoughts win.

By the time I returned to the table, the drinks had arrived. I had opted for a Strawberry Daiquiri, a risky move for me on a school night but I had justifi ed to myself that I needed to try everything. The daiquiri slid down far too easy for a Thursday so I ordered a long drink in the hope the implied longevity of the beverage would stop me from trying to talk everyone into going to Popworld after dinner.

My second time round the fl oor, I tailed my sister like an overzealous bodyguard. As a vegan, it took a hot second to work out the labelling system for her. Having sought out all the dishes marked ‘vegetarian’, she diligently checked the allergens listed under the dish descriptions like a plant-based Jessica Fletcher. The host did advise that we could have asked the chefs present, but such common sense had evaded us. We were momentarily waylaid by the crab claws that she said looked like they were wearing fi ngerless gloves before working our way back to the table to fi nd our partners inhaling their third platefuls. Our server, Luis, was on

hand like a conscientious tableware Womble, collecting the empties and refreshing the cutlery. The restaurant atmosphere was relaxed and friendly with a pleasant hum of conversation and laughter fl oating across from other tables, much like an agreeable Richard Curtis movie.

The desert selection included an ice cream station, hot puddings, a variety of bite sized cakes, and a fruit platter so extensive I hadn’t heard of several items on it. I dared to shoehorn in a bowl of Eton mess, but I was keen to use the photo booth which had a group of gen Z-ers gathered around it like moths on a flame. Having started a rumour that Harry Styles had been seen on the marketplace, we were able to get in for a quick selfie and left with a strip of pics to remember the evening, just in time to relieve an exhausted Nan from her babysitting duties.

Verdict:

At £22.99 per adult during peak times, it is great value for money, as you actually can eat all you like within the table booking time. If anything, I felt encouraged to indulge, like I was Bruce Bogtrotter with a chocolate cake. The layout of the restaurant allows for all party sizes from couples to large groups and with up to 150 dishes on off er, there is something for everyone. If food is your love language, Cosmo is bilingual. Grab a plate and have at it.

Wroxham Miniature Worlds

Discover the magic of model railways; explore our marvellous collections and take part in our toughest quiz yet.

Did you find the dog with the newspaper?

BACK FOR 2025

Take a trip back to yesteryear with Peter Williamson’s Old Penny Vintage Arcade. Marvel at “Working Models”

NEW FOR 2025

Discover the Woollen Wonders of Sandringham, Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile and more by Norfolk’s Queen of Knitting: Margaret Seaman.

LOCAL RESIDENTS SAVE

OFF FULL PRICED TICKETS

SPRING CHICKEN & ASPARAGUS BAKE

In this 'washing-up-light' chicken recipe from Chetna Makan, asparagus spears are added in for the last few minutes of cooking time

Ingredients: Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 8 chicken thighs, skin on, bone in

• 500g (or 2 bunches) asparagus, woody ends removed

• 284ml buttermilk

• 25g pack chives, chopped

• 1 clove garlic, finely grated

• 150g pack mixed radishes, quartered

METHOD:

Preheat the oven to 200ºC, gas mark 6. In a large roasting tin, drizzle the oil over the chicken, season, and bake for 30 minutes. Toss the asparagus through the oil in the tin and bake for another 5 minutes, until the asparagus is tender and the chicken is cooked through, the juices run clear and no pink meat remains. Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix the buttermilk, chives and garlic together; season. Scatter the radishes over the chicken and drizzle over the buttermilk sauce. This is delicious with crusty bread for mopping up the juices, if liked.

COOK’S TIP

This recipe also works very well with salmon fillets; just reduce the initial cooking time to 15 minutes.

Scan the QR code for more healthy recipes

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8.

BASQUE CHEESECAKE

Richard Bainbridge's

Thischeesecake is absolutely delicious and a perfect treat for your mother on Mother’s Day, whether you prepare it yourself or rope the children in to help! A simple cheesecake that delivers on flavour, is easy to make and looks beautiful. The best thing is that once you master this recipe, you can recreate it time and time again and it will slowly but surely become your new family favourite, go-to recipe.

for the Cheesecake

Ingredients:

• 700g Cream Cheese

• 350g Crème fraîche

• 300g Caster Sugar

METHOD:

• 5 Eggs

• 2 Tbsp Cornflour

• 1⁄2 Tsp Salt

Pre-heat the oven to 210°C. Grease and line a deep 20cm cake tin with a scrunched up sheet of baking paper so that it comes at least 2cm above the top rim of the cake tin. Put the cream cheese into a large mixing bowl or food processor and beat on low until soft and smooth. Beat in the crème fraîche and add the sugar and salt, continuing to beat until all the sugar has completely dissolved.

Next, beat in your eggs, one by one scraping down the side of the bowl and mix until well combined. Finally, add the cornflower and beat until smooth ensuring there are no lumps and pour the cheesecake mixture into the cake tin. Carefully transfer this to the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes (maybe a little bit longer depending on your oven). At this point, you are looking for a deep brown colour on top, but more importantly, the middle needs to be wobbling and still liquid. Remove the cheesecake from the oven at this point.

The internal temperature should be around 60°C, and so the residual heat within your cake will continue to cook it during the cooling/resting time. Once your cheesecake is cooled, carefully remove it from the tin with the paper still attached. I think this cake is delicious served on the same day, but it’s just as good 2 to 3 days later. Presenting the burnished cheesecake in the parchment paper gives a rustic feel and it is delicious served with new season rhubarb.

for the Rhubarb

Ingredients:

• A Bunch of New Season Rhubarb, Cleaned, Topped & Tailed (Half a Stick Per Person)

• A Sprinkling of Caster Sugar

It will slowly but surely become your new

METHOD:

Cut your rhubarb into 10cm sticks or your desired shape/size and sprinkle them with caster sugar. Wrap the rhubarb sticks in clingfilm and pop them into an oven at 120°C for 8-12 minutes until soft and tender Unwrap and use straightaway, or once cooled if you prefer. Rhubarb cooked like this will keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Serves: 8-12

with ART’s Bramley Apple Stu ng Crown Roast of Pork

INGREDIENTS:

Serves 4-6

The Main Event

• 1 medium-sized pork loin with ribs (minimum weight 1kg)

• 1kg potatoes (boiled and mashed)

• 4 medium-sized carrots (sliced)

• 2 medium heads of broccoli

• 1 x 226g jar of ART’s Bramley Apple Sauce

The Stuffing

• 1 white onion

• 1 red onion

• 2 cloves of garlic (chopped)

• 250g fresh breadcrumbs (use quality sliced white bread)

• 1 tsp dried sage

• 1 tsp dried rosemary

• 113g ART’s Bramley Apple Sauce (half a jar)

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

METHOD:

To Make the Stuffing

The queen of preserves shares another seasonal recipe

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Melt the oil and butter together in a heavy frying pan. Finely chop the onions and garlic, then cook until soft. Crumble in the breadcrumbs and add the remaining ingredients. Mix everything thoroughly. Transfer the stuffing into a mediumsized roasting tray and bake for approximately 20 minutes, until golden brown on top with a lovely crust. Cut into squares and serve alongside the meal.

Tip: You can prepare this in advance and store it in the fridge until needed.

The Main Event

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare the pork by placing it on a roasting tray. Season with salt, pepper, and a light glaze of olive oil. Check the weight of your loin and allow 25 minutes per 450g. The meat can be cooked in advance and left to rest, covered in foil, while the vegetables are prepared. Be sure to keep the tray of meat juices for making the gravy.

Wash and prepare the vegetables, then place them in pans of salted boiling water. Begin with the potatoes, allowing 30 minutes to cook. After 10 minutes, add the carrots and broccoli.

For the gravy

In homage to Crown Roast of Pork Day on 7 March, this impressive centerpiece will wow anyone you wish to entertain. Classic and delicious, it’s sure to be a showstopper!

Add 2 tablespoons of plain flour and a dash of gravy browning to the roasting tray. Pour in approximately 1 pint of boiling water and stir well over medium heat until smooth, thick, and piping hot. To serve, carve the pork and arrange the ribs into a crown shape at the center of a serving plate. Plate up the vegetables and serve with ART’s Bramley Apple Sauce.

Alice Rebecca Talbot owner of ART’s – Craft Kitchen

Floral Cupcakes

These cupcakes are perfect for Spring that’s hopefully just around the corner. They would also be a sweet bake for Mother’s Day!

INGREDIENTS: Makes 8

for the cupcakes for the topping

• 115g butter (softened)

• 115g caster sugar

• 2 medium eggs

• 115g self raising flour

• 2 tbsp whole milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 150g butter (softened)

• 300g icing sugar

• Pink and green food colouring

Pretty

BAKES

Baking sensation CATHRYN WOOD shares two of her fantastic recipes with Places&Faces ahead of her brand new book launch

BRING

METHOD:

Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a muffin tin with 8 cupcake cases. In a bowl, using a hand mixer or a freestanding mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take around 3 minutes. Add the eggs, flour, and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined. Spoon the mixture into the cupcake cases, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until risen and springy to the touch. Leave to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack. Meanwhile, place the butter into a bowl and, using a freestanding mixer or hand mixer, whip it until pale and fluffy. Add the icing sugar and mix until smooth and spreadable. You may need to add a little boiling water to achieve the desired consistency. Remove ¼ of the buttercream and place it into a separate bowl. Add the

green food colouring and mix until fully combined. Add pink food colouring to the remaining ¾ of the buttercream and mix until fully combined. Transfer each buttercream into a separate piping bag. Pipe six blobs of pink buttercream around the outer edge of each cupcake. Use the back of a teaspoon to spread the buttercream toward the centre to create a petal shape. Repeat for all petals on all cupcakes. Using the green buttercream, pipe small blobs in the middle of each cupcake to create the flower centre. Leave to set for 30 minutes before enjoying.

the animal kingdom to your kitchen with these unique, charming bakes that are just as fun to make as they are to eat. This wonderful collection of simple desserts is designed for bakers of all ages and levels--along with ways to customize each and every creation! Wade into ocean waters with Jellyfish Cupcakes and Axolotl Cookies, or take a hike through the forest with woodland critters like Hedgehog Chocolate Truffles and Gingerbread Squirrels. Look inside to find helpful tips and tricks to make decorating your creations both easy and fun, along with foolproof recipes for buttercream frosting, edible eyes and chocolate buttons.

Sure to be a hit at birthday parties, holidays and family gatherings, these fantastic recipes are perfect for families looking to create special, imaginative desserts.

Instagram: @cathrynlaurawood

Daisy Cookies

These cookies are so simple to make and they look adorable. This is a great bake to do with kids as they can get stuck right in and you don’t need any special cutters or equipment.

INGREDIENTS:

Makes 20 small cookies

• 225g plain flour

• 150g butter, chilled

• 75g icing sugar

• 20 Smarties

METHOD:

Place the fl our, butter, and sugar in a bowl. Rub the butter into the dry ingredients until a dough forms. This may take a few minutes, but keep going, and you'll achieve a super smooth dough.

Tear off some of the dough and roll it into fi ve small balls. Arrange the balls on a lined baking tray in the shape of a fl ower and gently press them down. Add a Smartie to the centre. Using a knife or the handle of a spoon, create a small indent on each petal.

Place the cookies in the freezer for at least an hour—this helps them maintain their shape.

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 190°C and bake for 8–10 minutes. Leave to cool on the tray before serving.

BUNGAY BUTTER

www.thepinktiffin.co.uk

Experience the authentic flavours of Sandip Bhogal’s heritage with The Pink Tiffin. Born into a Kenyan Sikh family, Sandip is passionate about recreating the vibrant, aromatic dishes from his childhood, bringing a true taste of home-cooked tradition to your table.

Each week, Sandip curates a changing set menu—available in both carnivore and herbivore options—featuring four freshly prepared dishes designed to serve two or more people. These meals are crafted in Bungay, delivered chilled and ready to heat at home on Friday and Saturday afternoons within a 15-mile radius. They stay fresh for up to two days in the fridge, perfect for enjoying authentic cuisine at your convenience.

To enhance your dining experience, you can add Sandip’s signature favourites like karahi lamb, saag paneer, samosas, and dahl kachoris to your order. Every dish is made with the finest ingredients, sourced locally wherever possible to reduce food miles and support the local economy.

At The Pink Tiffin, Sandip’s passion for food goes beyond the plate and is proud to donate a portion of our profits to charity, sharing the spirit of community with every meal. A selection of Sandip’s dishes are also sold frozen through local farm shops and delicatessens.

Sauce

INGREDIENTS:

• 180ml veg oil

• 50g Fen Farm butter

• 12 cloves garlic

• 50g ginger root

• 2.5 green finger chillis

• 2 tins chopped tomatoes

• 2bls tomato puree

• 3 bay leaves

• 10 green cardamon pods

• 3 black cardamon pods

METHOD:

• 3 cinnamon sticks

• 2 tsp salt

• 2 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder

• 30g brown sugar or jaggery

• 4 tsp garam masala

• 1.5 tbsp honey

• 3tsp cumin seeds

• 3 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tbsp dried fenugreek leaves

• 110ml fresh double cream

Blitz the garlic, chillies, and ginger, then fry in oil for 4–5 minutes until fragrant. Add bay leaves, black and green cardamom pods, cumin seeds, and cinnamon sticks. Let them sizzle for a few minutes until aromatic, being careful not to burn them.

Stir in the tomato purée and cook for about 10 minutes, until the oil separates. Blitz the tomatoes and add them to the pan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes.

Add butter and simmer for 5 minutes. Mix in garam masala, jaggery, honey, and dried fenugreek. Simmer for a few more minutes before serving.

Marinade & grill

INGREDIENTS:

• 1kg boneless chicken thigh cubed

• 20g ginger

• 2 green chillis

• 8 cloves garlic

• 2sp salt

• 2tsp Kashmiri chilli powder

• 3tsp cumin powder

• 2tsp garam masala

• 3tsp lemon juice

• 3sp vegetable oil

• 100 g Fen Farm Skyr yoghurt

• 40g Fen Farm butter melted

METHOD:

Blitz the ginger, chillies, and garlic in a food processor. Combine with salt, chilli powder, cumin, garam masala, lemon juice, vegetable oil, and Skyr. Stir well.

Add the chicken cubes, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, preferably 24 hours for maximum flavour.

Grill the chicken on a rack, brushing with Fen Farm butter. Cook for 10 minutes, or until fully cooked through and slightly charred.

Heat the sauce until boiling, then add cream and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir through before serving.

Sandip Bhogal

The Pink Tiffin

FIND YOUR PLACE

Enjoy over 90 fantastic shops, cafés and restaurants in the heart of Norwich, with convenient city centre parking.

Home to brands including Apple, Flannels, Frasers, H&M, Mango, Urban Outfitters and Zara.

To discover the full range of retail and dining experiences.

ChantryPlace.co.uk

SEASONAL CHIC & WEDDING MUST-HAVES

Women’s

fashion is thriving this spring, with styles celebrating creativity and selfexpression. The trends beautifully blend timeless classics with a fresh, modern twist, offering something for every taste and occasion. With wedding season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to prepare. Whether you’re a guest, bridesmaid, or simply celebrating the season, Chantry Place is full of stunning pieces that promise to keep you chic and on-trend.

Boho

is back

One of the standout trends is Bohemian Daydream – a carefree, boho-inspired look filled with flowing fabrics, delicate embroidery and beaded accents. Sheer layers and vintage-inspired silhouettes add effortless romance, making it a fabulous choice for outdoor weddings and garden parties. Mango has everything you need to bring this romantic trend to life.

Classic elegance

For those who prefer a more polished, sophisticated style, this spring sees a return of tweed blazers, pearls and refined tailoring. For stylish options for wedding guests looking for refined statement pieces, head to Frasers, where you'll find everything you need to achieve this timeless look.

Refreshing palettes

Spring wouldn’t be complete without a refreshing colour palette, and petal pink is taking centre stage. This soft pastel hue is a wonderful choice for spring weddings, blending romance with modern femininity. Meanwhile, pops of pistachio offer a fresh take on green. For the best selection, make sure to stop by River Island.

Wedding guest outfits

As wedding season kicks into high gear, stylish shoppers are turning to Phase Eight, Hobbs and Whistles,

SPRING TRENDS FOR 2025

where beautiful dresses are flying off the racks. These stores offer elegant, versatile options for both bridesmaids and wedding guests. From classic floral midis to sleek, contemporary silhouettes, they’ve become the go-to shops for those looking to celebrate in style.

Bold Spring Statements

This year, fashionistas can mix, match and layer with ease, creating looks that are both timeless and on-trend. Fashion in 2025 is all about expressing personal style with confidence.

COLOUR TRENDS & EASTER NEWNESS

by Lucy Heavens and Danielle Day

One of the

1. John Lewis Floral Crop Embroidered Cushion, Pistachio £25

2. John Lewis Felic Mohair Effect Throw, Multi £45

3. John Lewis Lozenge Large 3 Seater Sofa, Black Leg, Velvet Pistachio £1,599

4. Jamie Oliver Big Love Cosy Cuppa Mug, 375ml, Green £10

5. John Lewis Flora Fine China Side Plate, 20cm, Yellow/Multi £6

6. Talking Tables Grass Bunny Decoration, Green, H15cm £7

7. John Lewis Mushroom Rechargeable Dimmable Table Lamp, Yellow £65

8. John Lewis ANYDAY Wave 1 Drawer Bedside Table £129

9. John Lewis Scalloped Bubble Lacquer Tray, FSCCertified (MDF), Pollen £12

new on trend colours this season for home is soothing pistachio green. We have an abundance of products in store and online in this refreshing spring like tone. From furniture, lighting and even our new Jamie Oliver mugs. You could add this into your home in smaller items such as cushions and throws or if you have fallen in love with this green you can even go for a big ticket item such as our new lozenge sofa. Easter is on the horizon and marks the start of spring. Bringing bright pops of colour, into your homes to mirror the newness in the garden, allowing the outside to be brought in. We have an array of easter goodies such as our grass bunny decoration floral side plates and yellow scallop tray.

We at John Lewis Norwich Home design would love to assist you with your home styling journey with our free service. Whether you're refreshing a room or rethinking your whole home, we can help you create a look you’ll love.

For more information pop in-store and speak to a Partner or scan the QR code to book your free appointment.

Equally, you can follow us on Instagram @johnlewis_lucydanielle for more inspiration.

KATIE & LAURA

Norfolk’s Most Talked-About INTERIOR DESIGN DUO

From best friends to business partners, Katie Bayfield and Laura Ruddy have turned their passion for interior design into a thriving venture, founding Norfolk Luxury Furniture—where luxury meets affordability.

In today’s fast-paced world, balancing family, passion, and career is no easy feat. However, for Katie Bayfield, 40, and Laura Ruddy, 37, co-founders of Norfolk Luxury Furniture, they’ve managed to not only make it all work but thrive. As mothers, entrepreneurs, and businesswomen, they’ve combined their love for home interiors and design to create a successful business that transforms spaces while offering a wide range of products at their shop in Salhouse—from plants and candles to bespoke kitchens, furniture, and flooring. Fast becoming one of Norfolk’s most talked-about interior design duos, their journey stands as a testament to the strength, creativity, and determination of modern women in business.

A Journey Rooted in Passion

Katie’s love for home interiors has always been a part of her, shaped by growing up in Norfolk and being surrounded by the region’s historic buildings. “I’ve always had a passion for old buildings. I love the character and charm they bring, and that’s been a driving force throughout my career,” she explains. Over the years, she’s turned this passion into a thriving business, starting with a holiday cottage business and later transforming Hautbois Hall in Coltishall into a wedding venue. Before Norfolk Luxury Furniture, Katie was no stranger to home renovation projects. “Before I had kids, my husband and I would do a lot of home renovations, always moving on to the

next one. But once the children arrived, I felt I needed to settle down,” she admits. “That’s when I began to look for ways to blend my love for design with family life.”

In 2018, Katie and her husband took on a major renovation project, buying a country hall and working to make it their home. “It’s an ongoing project, and that’s what I love about it. It’s the perfect mix of work and family. The beauty of restoring old homes is that you never truly finish— there’s always something to do,” Katie says with a smile.

Katie’s design approach blends her love for antique furniture and original features with contemporary touches, creating a unique style that highlights both old and new. You can follow Katie’s home renovation journey on Instagram @katies_country_life.

Building a Business from Home

Katie’s entrepreneurial journey began long before Norfolk Luxury Furniture was born. Alongside raising her three children, she ran a variety of homebased businesses. “I’ve always worked with the public in some capacity. I ran a bed and breakfast, a holiday cottage business, and even hosted events at Hautbois Hall,” she recalls. “I used to have a pop-up shop in my kitchen, selling interiors and homewares. As my children grew, I needed a business that I could run from home while still being there for them.”

Her entrepreneurial spirit also led her to create The Noor Company, a candle brand she built from the ground up. “I truly enjoyed creating the home fragrance range for my previous

business, The Noor Company. Starting the company from scratch was both challenging and rewarding, and it gave me valuable insight into what it takes to work for myself. The experience taught me that with dedication, creativity, and hard work, it’s possible to turn an idea into a thriving business,” Katie explains. She later sold The Noor Company, ready to embark on a new chapter in her business journey.

“I’ve always wanted to do something for myself. Being a mother was amazing, but I also needed something that was mine,” Katie says. This drive for independence eventually led her to meet Laura Ruddy, and together they opened Norfolk Luxury Furniture, combining their talents and passion for design.

Laura Ruddy: A Friendship That Became Business

Laura Ruddy’s path into interior design is similarly rooted in her desire to create something for herself while balancing family life. Born in Luton, Laura moved to St. Ives, Cambridgeshire when she was 13 years old. Her life took many twists and turns as she followed her husband, professional footballer John Ruddy, around the country with their two children. “Football life is unpredictable. We moved from one club to another, which can make it tricky to establish a career with all the moving,” Laura explains. “But once our children were older, I realised I wanted to create something for myself.”

Before starting her business, Laura worked as a hairdresser. “It was a

wonderful career, and I loved building relationships with clients,” Laura says. “But after moving around so much, it was difficult to establish roots and build a client base. It was time to shift gears and build something of my own.”

After spending time focusing on her children and supporting her husband’s career, Laura decided to take the plunge into the world of business. “I always loved home interiors, and I wanted to start something that would allow me to stay home with the children but also build a career,” she says. “So I started Norfolk Luxury Furniture as an online business in 2022. It was great, so flexible, I could shape the business around my family life.”

In 2019, Laura pursued an Interior Design course with the National Design Academy, further developing her passion and expanding her skills in the

field. 'I really enjoyed the course, as being online allowed me the flexibility to fit it around my time with the family'.

As Laura’s business grew, she realised that customers wanted more than just online shopping—they wanted to experience the products in person. “People wanted to see the products before buying them, touch them, and feel the quality, ” Laura explains. “That’s when I knew I needed to expand and open a physical store, but I didn’t want to do it alone.”

Opening the Doors to Norfolk Luxury Furniture

The idea of opening a shop became a reality when Laura thought about the perfect partner to join her on this new adventure. “I knew I needed someone who shared my passion for interiors and design, and someone I could trust,” Laura says. “And that’s when I thought of

Katie. We’re best friends, and we both have the same work ethic and creativity. It was a perfect match.”

Katie was thrilled to join Laura in growing Norfolk Luxury Furniture into a full-service business, combining an online store, a physical shop, and an interior design service. “When Laura invited me to be part of this, I was so excited. We started with a pop-up shop at Black Barn Farm in the deli, and it just took off from there,” Katie recalls. “It was an amazing experience, and it felt like everything was falling into place. Designing and transforming the shop was so much fun.”

In August 2024, Norfolk Luxury Furniture opened its doors in Salhouse, offering everything from plants and candles to bespoke kitchens and flooring. “We wanted to create a space where people could experience luxury but at an affordable price,” Laura explains. “We pride ourselves on offering something for every budget. It’s about making luxury accessible to everyone. We absolutely love our shop, but our true passions come to life with our interior design service.”

Reflecting on their journey, Laura adds, “We loved transforming the shop. We designed the whole space—it was an exciting time. Black Barn Farm is a destination place; they have a deli and coffee shop and are the perfect base for us. It’s just off the NDR, it’s free parking, and it’s perfect for a trip out. We are a one-stop shop for all things home and interior, and we pride ourselves on offering that luxury that’s affordable. We have something for every price range.”

“It’s so important to have great customer service. A lot of our customers become our friends, and that customer service, I think, is hard to find these days.”

Combining Their Unique Strengths

What sets Katie and Laura apart as interior designers is their complementary styles and expertise. Katie’s passion lies in restoring old buildings and furniture, mixing the old with the new. “I love bringing out the beauty in original features, whether it’s restoring a fireplace or finding antique furniture that tells a story,” Katie says. “It’s all about balance—bringing contemporary design into old spaces in a way that feels fresh and new.”

Laura, on the other hand, is all about modern design with an emphasis on functionality and creative storage solutions. “My home is ultra-modern, with clean lines and minimalistic designs. I love maximising space and making it work for the people who live there,” Laura explains. “I’m always thinking about practical solutions—like clever storage ideas and ways to make a home feel organised and spacious.”

Together, they offer clients a perfect blend of modern and traditional design, always putting the needs of their customers first. “We work closely with our clients to understand their vision,” says Katie. “It’s important to adapt our designs to suit each person’s unique style and needs.”

Both women are passionate about helping clients feel comfortable and confident in their design choices. “One of the best parts of our job is working together but also seeing the look on a client’s face when they walk into a space that’s been transformed,” says Katie. “It’s why we do what we do.”

Top 5 Tips from Katie & Laura

1. Mix Old and New:

Don’t be afraid to combine antique pieces with modern furniture. The contrast creates a timeless, unique style that gives a room character.

2. Maximise Storage:

Get creative with your storage solutions—think of ways to incorporate hidden storage, like under-bed drawers or built-in shelving. It’s about making your space work for you.

3. Personalise Your Space:

Design isn’t just about trends; it’s about reflecting your personality and lifestyle. Choose pieces that make you feel comfortable and at home.

4. Don’t Rush:

Take your time when designing a space. Whether it’s choosing the perfect wallpaper or finding the right sofa, don’t feel pressured to rush decisions. The best designs come with patience.

5. Consider Functionality:

Always think about how the space will be used. Make sure the design is not just beautiful but also practical for everyday living.

Katie and Laura’s Favourite Design Projects

Katie and Laura’s passion for transforming spaces is evident in all their projects, but two in particular stand out as their favourites.

1. Bespoke Home Bar

One of their standout projects was designing a bespoke home bar. Laura shares, “The client wanted something modern and functional, but also very stylish. We loved the challenge of creating a space that would be both luxurious for entertaining guests and cosy.” The bespoke home bar became the perfect balance of modern style and practical luxury, showcasing Katie and Laura’s signature approach of blending beauty and functionality.

2. The Living Room and Media Wall

Another favourite project of theirs was transforming a living room with a custom media wall. Katie recalls, “The client had a blank canvas, and it was exciting to bring their vision to life. It’s always about creating something that suits the family, something functional but with an amazing look.” The media wall was the perfect blend of sleek design and practicality, making the space not only stylish but incredibly functional for the family.

Katie and Laura work as a design duo, offering a comprehensive interior design service to help clients visualise and plan their spaces.

LOOKING FORWARD: The Future of Norfolk Luxury Furniture

Katie and Laura’s journey is just beginning. As they continue to grow their business, they are focused on expanding their product offerings, the Norfolk Luxury brand and collaborating with other local businesses. “We really want to work with other independent businesses in Norfolk,” says Laura. “We believe in supporting the community and helping each other grow. For the near future, we have lots of exciting projects we are working on to grow the Norfolk Luxury brand.”

For now, Norfolk Luxury Furniture is a place where clients can find a mix of highend brands and affordable luxury, all while receiving dedicated customer service. “We believe in creating a space where people feel welcome and appreciated,” Katie says. “We want every customer to walk in and feel like they’re a part of the Norfolk Luxury Furniture family.”

As they continue to build their dream business, both women are focused on maintaining a work-life balance that allows them to enjoy their families while pursuing their passions. “As long as we’re enjoying what we do, we’ll keep doing it,” Katie says. “The moment we stop loving it is the moment we shut up shop.”

For Katie and Laura, interior design isn’t just about transforming spaces—it’s about creating a legacy of hard work, friendship, and passion that inspires others. In such a short space of time, they already have returning customers.

For those interested in transforming their space, Katie and Laura offer interior design consultations to help bring your vision to life. Norfolk Luxury Furniture, located at Black Barn Farm in Salhouse, is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30am to 3:00pm.

For inquiries or to book a consultation, you can reach the team at 07886 321707 or by email at enquiries@norfolkluxuryfurniture.com

Stay connected and inspired by following them on Instagram @norfolkluxuryfurniture or shop the full range of products online at www.norfolkluxuryfurniture.com

Spring

officially begins on March 20th, making it the perfect time to refresh your home interior. Add new cushions in soft pastel shades, floral patterns, or textured fabrics like linen and velvet to brighten up your seating area. Bring in fresh flowers in beautiful vases for a touch of natural elegance, and swap out heavier throws for lighter, breezy fabrics to create a welcoming, spring-inspired atmosphere.

Fresh ideas for spring

If you want to incorporate nature into your home this Easter, then bring the outside in. Whether that’s daffodils from your garden or flowers from the shop. Flowers instantly brighten up your home and give that fresh garden smell. We have an amazing florist at Black Barn Farm - Zoe Bidwell Bespoke Flowers www.bespokeeventflowers.co.uk

Interior TRENDS

Interior designers Laura Ruddy & Katie Bayfield, owners of the stylish Norfolk Luxury Furniture, gives us advice to keep our homes on trend this year.

Norfolk Luxury Furniture is a unique company that specialises in supplying beautiful, quality furniture and furnishings for your home at competitive prices.

@norfolkluxuryfurniture www.norfolkluxuryfurniture.com

Colour Drenching Trend

Colour Drenching is the perfect way to make your space stand out! It turns a room into a bold, immersive experience. By covering walls, ceilings, and trim in one eye-catching hue, you add drama, depth, and mood that neutrals simply can’t achieve. This trend is all about fun: it’s daring, expressive, and fully customisable. Let your walls speak for themselves!

Statement Lighting Fixtures

Lighting has transitioned from a practical necessity to a stunning art form. Oversized chandeliers now serve as captivating focal points, adding

personality and a feature to any space. Below are some of our favourites, all from Norfolk Luxury Furniture, Norwich Road, Salhouse, NR13 6QG.

Discover our new collection of cushions, now in store! Priced just right, with feather-filled comfort—the large size is £49, and the small is £39. Explore a variety of beautiful patterns and colours, available both in our shop and online at www.norfolkluxuryfurniture.com

Interior TRENDS

Ever wondered why extralarge candles in high-street stores cost less than £10?

Now, don’t get me wrong—you can find candles in most high-street supermarkets for under £10. But have you ever stopped to consider what you’re actually buying? Many budget-friendly candles may seem like a great deal, but are they really? Some larger, bargain-priced candles only have fragrance infused in the top quarter, meaning the scent quickly fades as you burn them. So, are they truly worth the money?

If you’re wondering whether soy candles are a better option than paraffin wax candles then the answer is likely yes! Especially if you care about the environment and indoor air quality.

Read our Lifestyle blog on our website for more information www.norfolkluxuryfurniture.com

Katie’s favourite candle is Mandarin & Tonka Bean by The Noor Company.

Why Choose a Professional Solicitor for Your Will: Ensuring Security and Peace of Mind

Director – Hansells

In today’s world of convenience, it’s easy to be drawn to quick and cheap online will writing services. However, the risks they pose often outweigh the apparent benefits. Here’s why trusting a professional solicitor regulated by the Solicitors Regulation

Authority (SRA) is paramount:

The Dangers of Cheap Online Will Writing Services: Limited Legal Expertise: Generic templates may not address your unique circumstances, leading to errors that render your will invalid or open to challenge.

Inadequate Support: Online services lack the personalised guidance provided by qualified solicitors. Potential Inaccuracy: DIY wills are prone to mistakes, which may only be discovered after it’s too late to rectify them.

The Assurance of Professional Solicitors: Legal Expertise and Guidance: Solicitors offer tailored legal advice, ensuring your wiswhes are accurately reflected in your will.

Regulatory Oversight: SRA-regulated solicitors adhere to strict standards, providing additional protection through professional indemnity insurance. Personalised Service: Solicitors provide individualised support throughout the process, addressing your concerns and ensuring your final wishes are legally sound.

Peace of Mind: Trusting your will to a professional solicitor offers confidence in its validity, providing reassurance for you and your loved ones.

While online services may seem convenient, the risks they pose to your final wishes are substantial. Investing in a professional solicitor ensures legal expertise, regulatory oversight, and personalised support, safeguarding your legacy for generations.

Choose wisely; choose a qualified solicitor for peace of mind.

Lauren Cotton - TEP Legal

An exquisite collection of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes in the soughtafter town of Holt.

Whether you’re a dynamic young professional, a blossoming family, or seeking the perfect abode for your next life chapter, Park View offers a stylish selection of homes to meet every need.

Adjacent to the breathtaking expanses of Holt Country Park, homeowners are offered the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of their surroundings, with the picturesque woodland and captivating trails just moments from their doorstep.

Make your move today.

from £302,500 3

homes from £350,000 4 bedroom homes from £495,000

Our Marketing Suite and Show Home are open Thursday to Monday, from 10am to 5pm. Tel: 01263 200 059

Park View Beresford Road, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6EW

Nature & Modern Living at Park View, Holt

Nestled

within

the heart of the charming Georgian town of Holt, Park View epitomizes both elegance and functionality. This carefully planned development of 108 energy-effi cient homes brings together the best of modern living whilst being located perfectly against a backdrop of a Green Flag award winning captivating woodland, making it an ideal place to call home.

A serene location

Holt is a picturesque Georgian market town full of appeal. Known for its arts scene, Holt has a plethora of independent shops and cosy cafés, elegant boutiques and traditional pubs. With its rich history, welcoming community, and local amenities, it’s a town with a lot to off er. Just four miles from the illustrious North Norfolk coastline and within close proximity to Norfolk’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Park View is a place where you’ll instantly feel at home Above all else, what sets Park View apart from the rest is its unbeatable location.

Nestled adjacent to the award-winning Holt Country Park & just a short walk from your front door, this 100-acre woodland off ers a peaceful retreat and enchanting woodland trails, making it perfect for nature lovers. Living here

means being surrounded by some of the best countryside Norfolk has to off er.

High-quality, energy-efficient homes

At Park View, Lovell have created homes that combine the traditional look of Norfolk fl int with contemporary building methods, making them both stylish and energy-effi cient. Each two-, three- and four-bedroom property is

designed to be comfortable, easy to maintain and eco-friendly. You’ll enjoy high-quality insulation, air source heat pumps, and energy-saving features to help keep costs down. Plus, with a 10-year NHBC warranty and two-year emergency cover, you can be sure you’re making a smart, long-lasting investment.

Reserve your new home today

Homes at Park View are already available to reserve, so don’t miss your chance to discover these beautiful homes and tranquil lifestyle within this beautiful part of Norfolk. With its combination of natural beauty and modern living, Park View is the perfect location to start the next chapter of your life.

To register your interest or fi nd out more, please contact us on 01263 200176 or email parkview.sales@lovell.co.uk

BAN THE BOARDS

Natalie Ward-Kerr Founder and Director www.frankestateagency.co.uk

Theglobal property market is a constant programme of evolution, from marketing methods and sales trends to how we search and find our dream home and even in our perfect little slice of the world in Norfolk and Suffolk, it’s no different.

Think back, it wasn’t so long ago that house hunting consisted of circling the streets in search for those elusive for sale boards, our high streets were overflowing with estate agency offices and your weekly local paper had a property supplement several pages thick, ready for you to scour through in the hope that from that one grainy thumbnail image, yes you might find ‘the one’. Fast forward to 2025, where Rightmove and Zoopla are monopolising the online portals, the once previously bustling agency offices are being replaced by ‘For Lease’ signs and local newspaper advertising seems redundant having been replaced by glossy and arguably more informative online advertising, but one method is appearing the stand the test of time, which is sale boards.

A recent survey showed that 96% of us started our property search online which begs the question, why does this practice still persist? To start this conversation, lets understand the purpose of the board. One may say that it is there to advertise the sale of the property, but of course what is actually being advertised is the estate agent. Undoubtably, my fellow agents would

argue that if an advertising opportunity exists then grab it with both hands which in a highly competitive industry is a fair point, but does it outweigh the negatives? In Frank Estate Agency’s first two years of trading, keeping our overheads down was one of our focal points in a bid to survive our launch and help keep our fees reasonable for our clients. It became immediately apparent that boards do not weather well visually, especially in the harsher months, meaning that after two uses, our boards then looking slightly shabby and tarnished were at the end of their cycle, a compelling argument for the environmental impact. Boards are usually made from a plastic called Correx and whilst technically recyclable, you would be astonished how many of the UK’s boards end up in landfill, where they take around 500 years to biodegrade. Boards are also commonly attached with plastic cable ties which are not recyclable and often find their way into our rivers and seas where they are catastrophic for wildlife. Whilst these factors both impacted our choice, there was another big reason we made the big decision to rid our business of boards and that’s simply because, no one likes them! Who enjoys looking out of their window seeing a ghastly for sale board in their front garden just waiting for the neighbours blinds to start twitching or to see their pretty road cluttered up with an array of boards. Not only do they spoil the aesthetics of a neighbourhood, they

give the impression of turf wars from agent to agent, displaying a bravado of chest beating agents claiming one road to another and perhaps even more frustratingly, not abiding by the laws surrounding them in terms of timescales and positioning. The law states that boards must be taken down within 14 days of a property being sold or let. The fact this rarely happens highlights that it’s not about advertising properties at all, it literally territory marking at the expense of the homeowner.

At Frank Estate Agency, we are taking a different view and making the bold step to ‘ban the boards’ within our independent agency. We are not concerned about joining the pack, we’re more about moving forward and losing practices which in our opinion feel outdated and unnecessary and instead concentrating on modern evolving marketing methods which serve our clients and their home selling aspirations rather than us.

What are your thoughts?

EAST NORFOLK SIXTH FORM COLLEGE

As the largest provider of A Levels in Norfolk – East Norfolk Sixth Form College (EN) is the college of choice for around 1800 young people from across Norfolk and North Suffolk.

Our teachers are 16-19 specialists, providing students with the knowledge and support they need to be successful in their chosen subjects. We are one of the only colleges in the country that builds our timetable around student choice rather than asking students to be limited in their options.

EN’s amazing track record of being consistently ‘Good’ for over 43 years has been maintained following the

most recent inspection (Feb ’24) by education watchdog Ofsted. Our campus has recently undergone a £6.5m transformation with brand new classrooms, the latest equipment and exciting new facilities, including the Henry Cator Building, a state-of-the-art engineering suite, the Notcutt Healthcare Suite, performing arts theatre, cinema and the league standard 3G football pitch

We are the only Sixth Form in the UK to have a Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and we are an approved centre for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award. Our extracurricular offer is amazing with over 40 enrichment opportunities available to our students across a whole range of exciting pathways.

For over 43 years, students continue to choose EN because of the freedom and independence that a Sixth Form College experience offers. Our unique learning environment and reputation for being creative, innovative and opening up pathways to new and exciting opportunities sets us apart.

All of our students are encouraged from the moment they start at EN to see themselves as achieving at the highest level. We stretch and challenge them to achieve the very best so that when they leave, they have excellent results and have developed a range of skills to help them to be more rounded individuals.

I was bullied at school, but look at me now

LAURA BULL

celebrates 15 years in business

Welcome to InspireMe, the new section of Places&Faces, created by me, Victoria at InspireMe PR. In this space, I'll bring you stories of incredible people, inspiring ideas, and discussions that challenge the status quo.

From remarkable individuals to places that inspire change and ideas that provoke thought—it's all about sparking conversation and inspiring action.

BULLYING remains a heartbreaking reality for many young people today. Recent research from the Anti-Bullying Alliance reveals that over 23% of schoolchildren are frequently bullied, with a survey of almost 45,000 pupils in England showing that one in five students face regular, face-to-face bullying.

Laura Bull understands these statistics all too well. Having been bullied during her school years, she knows how hurtful it can be. But she also believes that bullying doesn't have to define your future. "When I was at school, I was the 'overweight girl,'" Laura recalls. "There wasn't the body positivity movement we have now, and I often felt like I didn't belong. Being bullied and not feeling good enough was very personal, but I'm passionate about shining a light on it."

Laura reflects on how terrible her bullying experience was, saying, "When I think about it now, the thought of something like that happening to my son is horrifying—I wouldn't wish it on anyone. But I want young people to know that, even after being bullied, you can go on to do great things. It can affect your confidence, but it doesn't have to hold you back."

BUILDING A BUSINESS FROM THE GROUND UP

Fast forward to today, Laura, 40, is the Director and Owner of CODE Hair Consultants in Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, a thriving salon celebrating 15 years in business. She's also a property developer, entrepreneur, and mother to her 11-year-old son, Reggie.

Laura started her career as a hairdressing apprentice straight from school, and after seven years of working for others, she decided to take the leap and open her own salon. "At the time, I didn't have massive ambition to become as big as I have, but I knew I wanted to work for myself and had some unique ideas about what I wanted to do," said Laura.

In 2010, she leased a run-down gaming shop in Oulton Broad, borrowed £20,000 from her parents, and turned it into a salon. "There was a lot of building work and renovation involved, and I was only 25 at the time, so it was a big deal really, but I just did it," she explained.

Fifteen years later, Laura has to pinch herself at how well she has done. "I can't believe how successful it is really, there have been lots of ups and downs, but I feel I have always stayed true to

what I believe as a hairdresser and employer. Along the way, I've learned a lot. I find if you stay true to yourself and your ethos, that's what will make you successful," said Laura.

A DRIVE TO BE THE BEST

Laura’s ethos is to offer a personal yet professional experience in a five-star salon, with a strong focus on attention to detail. Her commitment to excellence is reflected in the many awards she’s received.

"I’ve always been driven to be the best, entering national awards to gain recognition. I stood out quickly at the British Hairdressing Business Awards, reaching the finals in just four months, which raised our profile. Since then, I’ve continued to stay on top of trends and new technologies."

"We’ve won the Excellence in Customer Service award three times at the East Suffolk Business Awards, I won Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2015, and we’ve been named Best Hair Salon in the East twice. In 2018, we were honoured as the Best Independent Hair Salon in the UK by the NHBF. Most recently, we won the Workplace Culture Award in 2023 and a Fresher Award for the Best in Class on the booking platform.”

Stephenson Smart

Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors

Stephen Pease, Stephenson Smart’s Associate Director at our Acle o ce, discusses the importance of a company’s articles and why a business should never ignore them.

Starting or Selling a company?

There are many things to take into consideration, but don’t be caught out by company law.

The articles of association are a set of standard default rules and regulations for the internal management and operation of a company, which deal with the day to day running of a company and how it is governed.

For many years it has been quite common for newly incorporated companies to incorporate quickly and online with model articles, to save the burden of adopting tailored articles of association.

Model articles are the standard default articles prescribed by the Companies Act 2006. Many directors are not aware of the provisions of the model articles.

King’s Lynn

22-26 King Street, Kings Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 1HJ

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

T: 01553 774104

E: kingslynn@ stephenson-smart.com

Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm T: 01493 750207 E: acle@stephensonsmart.com

In this article Stephen briefly lists some issues with model articles on a company’s flexibility to run and why bespoke articles may be a better option from the outset.

Common problems include:

Sole Director Companies: In 2022 there was a High Court Case where a judge made a ruling whereby, he stated that the model articles specify that there is a requirement for a company to have more than one director to make lawful decisions. This means that a sole director may not be able to lawfully authorise the company to enter into trade or credit agreements.

Directors conflicts: The model articles specify that if a proposed company transaction relates to the personal interest of a director, that director may not be counted as participating in the decisionmaking process for voting purposes. In small private companies where directors are also the shareholders there can be a conflict of interest which can result in directors not being able to vote on simple matters.

Pre-emption rights on share transfers & allotments: The “right of first refusal” requires that current shareholders are o ered the chance to acquire shares so as not to dilute their current shareholding. It may be beneficial to specify a particular process to follow and protecting current directors by specifying who should receive shares first should a shareholder decide to leave.

As a company evolves and changes, the requirements of the governance of the company is likely to change, so it is important that the articles reflect this to make sure they are still relevant and legally binding.

Articles of association can be changed at any time, subject to the passing of a special

Downham Market

The Crescent, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, PE13 1EH Mon-Fri 9am-5pm T: 01945 463383 E: wisbech@ stephenson-smart.com

1st Floor, 9 Market Place, Downham Market, PE38 9DG

Mon-Fri 9:30am-4:30pm T: 01366 384121

E: downhammarket@ stephenson-smart.com

Stephen

Pease, Associate Director, Stephenson Smart, Acle

resolution of the shareholders.

If you’re selling a company or at the other end of the scale, heading towards insolvency, your company’s conduct and filings will be subject to much scrutiny.

The message is clear.

Don’t rely on standard model articles.

If you are concerned that your articles of association are not fit for the current purpose of your company or you are considering incorporating a new company speak to Stephenson Smart and let us help.

Call us today on 01493 382500 or 01493 750207.

East Coast House, Galahad Rd, Beacon Park, Gorleston, NR31 7RU

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm T: 01493 382500

E: eastcoastoffice@ stephenson-smart.com

Fakenham

10 Oak Street, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 9DY

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm T: 01328 863318

E: fakenham@ stephenson-smart.com

March 23 Dartford Road, March, Cambridgeshire, PE15 8AN

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm T: 01354 653026

E: march@ stephenson-smart.com

Gorleston

EMPOWERING OTHERS THROUGH TRAINING

What sets Laura apart is her passion for mentorship. She trains her apprentices not only in hairdressing but in becoming the best version of themselves. "I teach them to grow in their personal lives as well as their careers," she said.

Laura's ethos of creating a supportive environment has paid off. Over the years, she's seen at least five of her former staff members go on to run their own business. "I'm proud to have been able to offer others the confidence to start their own businesses," she said. "It's a testament to the training and support we offer."

At one time Laura ran a team of ten, but she prefers a smaller team and today has a team of four very talented women working with her. “I’m incredibly proud of the team I’ve built. I mentor and support them not just in hairdressing, but in becoming the best version of themselves. Their success is my success.”

ADAPTING TO AN EVERCHANGING INDUSTRY

Since opening her salon, the hairdressing industry has transformed. Laura was one of the first salon owners in her area to embrace social media, launching a Facebook page and website before many others. "At the time, it was groundbreaking," Laura reflected. "Now, platforms like Instagram and Pinterest dominate how people experience hairdressing.

But with these advancements come challenges. "Social media has created unrealistic beauty standards," she noted. "Clients often bring in photos that are heavily filtered or photoshopped, which often are photos of wigs. I train my team to manage expectations while delivering the best results possible. While these images help with vision, honesty is key."

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Laura is committed to making her salon a welcoming space for all, including those with mental health challenges or physical disabilities. "We strive to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable, regardless of their personal struggles," she explains.

The salon has adapted its services to accommodate clients with various needs. For instance, they work with individuals who have neurological disorders like Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and those with severe anxiety. "We tailor our approach to each client's unique situation," Laura says.

By training her staff to be sensitive to mental health issues, Laura ensures that clients who might otherwise avoid salons feel confident in visiting CODE Hair Consultants. "Our goal is to make everyone feel valued and cared for," she adds.

JUGGLING MOTHERHOOD AND AMBITION

Being a businesswoman hasn't stopped Laura from being a hands-on mum. She returned to work just three months after Reggie was born, relying on a strong family support network. "I've never let being a mum hold me back," she said. "It's so important to have a passion and a focus of your own. It's also inspiring for my son to see a strong, independent woman."

Laura's advice to other mums balancing work and family? "Use the downtime you have to focus on your goals. Don't get lost in societal pressure. Your child will grow up, and it's important to have something for yourself."

BRANCHING OUT INTO PROPERTY

In 2015, Laura purchased the building housing CODE Hair Consultants, marking a pivotal moment in her entrepreneurial journey. "I had invested so much money into the property, and this felt like the start of my real entrepreneurial spirit," she recalls.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced her salon's closure, but Laura transformed this challenge into an opportunity. "During covid, I couldn't do anything. I had to furlough the staff, still had the mortgage and bills to pay, and as a selfemployed person, I wasn't getting any income," she explains. "But I thought, let's turn this into a positive."

Recognising the emerging staycation trend, Laura saw potential in property investment. "I realised staycations would be massive, so I decided to buy and open a short-stay accommodation," she says. "I listed it on Airbnb before even renovating, with just a description and some accessory photos. I put it up for July, listed it cheaply, and within a day, it was fully booked for an entire month in 2021 when staycations were incredibly popular."

This property became CODE Terrace, situated in a lovely part of Oulton Broad, just down from her work. "It's perfectly located so I can check on it whenever I need to," Laura adds with pride.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

With her salon thriving, her property portfolio growing, and numerous awards to her name, Laura shows no signs of slowing down. "My ultimate goal?" she pondered. "I'd love to be as well-known as a businesswoman like Jacqueline Gold or Karren Brady. My buzz is what's next. I want to add more strings to my bow." Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? "If you can dream it, you can achieve it. Don't let anyone hold you back. And never listen to the word no."

Laura Bull's story is proof that resilience, determination, and commitment can lead to extraordinary success. From being bullied at school to becoming a multi-business owner and entrepreneur, Laura's journey is nothing short of inspiring. As she puts it, "Trust the process. Stay consistent. Anyone can achieve it."

A HEARTFELT MESSAGE FROM LAURA:

"Being bullied doesn't define who you are or what you can become. It can hurt, but with time and the right support, you can turn it into strength. Don’t let anyone’s words hold you back from becoming the person you’re meant to be."

If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, there are resources available to help:

• Childline – 0800 1111 (available 24/7)

• The Anti-Bullying Alliance www.antibullyingalliance.org.uk

• Mind (Mental Health Support) 0300 123 3393

• The Samaritans – 116 123 (available 24/7)

CONNECT WITH LAURA: Visit CODE Hair Consultants at 25 Bridge Rd, Lowestoft NR32 3LN or explore their website at codehair.co.uk Follow their creative transformations on Instagram @codehairsalon or call them directly at 01502 569590 For holiday stays by the coast, check out CODE Terrace on Instagram @codeterrace or visit codeterracesu olk.com Follow Laura's personal journey on Instagram @lauracodehair or explore her property development ventures via @laurabulldevelopments

SCHOOL OPEN MORNING. TAKE A CLOSER LOOK.

Town Close Open Morning Friday 28th March 2025

Book a tour at our March Open Morning, and see first-hand why Town Close School is a unique place for your child to grow.

We are the leading independent co-educational preparatory school in Norwich for children aged 3-13. We encourage academic excellence and celebrate achievement. We inspire collaborative exploration and play. We support each child to develop as an individual.

And with our fifteen-acre woodland site tucked away near the city centre, we offer a truly unique space for your child to grow up in.

Book your Open Morning tour now, including a chance to meet Headmaster Nick Tiley-Nunn or book a private tour on a date that suits you.

today

admissions@townclose.com 01603 599030 or scan the code now

Town Close Open Morning Friday 11th October 2024

Book a tour at our October Open Morning, and see first-hand why Town Close School is a unique place for your child to grow.

We are the leading independent co-educational preparatory school in Norwich for children aged 3-13. We encourage academic excellence and celebrate achievement. We inspire collaborative exploration and play. We support each child to develop as an individual.

And with our fifteen-acre woodland site tucked away near the city centre, we offer a truly unique space for your child to grow up in.

Book your Open Morning tour now, including a chance to meet Headmaster Nick Tiley-Nunn or book a private tour on a date that suits you.

Are you battling with your hormones?

Struggling to get heard in an overburdened NHS?

We are here to support you on your menopause journey.

As GPs and Specialist Gynaecologists, we are here to help with your hormonal issues including perimenopause, menopause, and Premature Ovarian Insu ciency.

We o er long private consultations at a beautiful, relaxed clinic in Norwich. Regular discussions of complex cases if needed ensures the best carfe for you. No GP referral needed.

Evidence-based, safe care.

With a full range of HRT o ered, including testosterone. CBT for Menopause is also available.

Health Share Clinic, Colney Hall, Norwich. Tel: 07359 317176 www.norfolkmenopause.co.uk

PRIORITISE YOURSELF THIS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

International Women’s Day falls each year on March 8th. By celebrating achievements and highlighting ongoing injustices, its aim is to inspire and unite women globally. Among its missions is an aim to close the gender health gap, assist women in making informed decisions about their health and to raise awareness and accelerate action on health matters across a woman’s entire lifespan.

The IWD mission resonates strongly with the team at Norfolk Menopause. Made up of five doctors – three GPs and two gynaecologists – with specialist menopause training and a wealth of women’s health expertise, the Norfolk Menopause team understands just how di cult mid-life can be for women. It’s why they chose to set up a practice that provides women with individualised, evidence-based treatment combining hormonal management with nonhormonal support. They o er private clinic appointments and also run frequent menopause-awareness and training sessions.

Women are often great at looking after others but not so good when it comes to their own health. We often push things to the back of our minds when it comes to worries or concerns we may have.

One of the key messages of International Women’s Day is that knowledge is power and that includes coping with menopause. There is a diverse range of literature available on the topic, but it is also important to broach concerns with a qualified health professional, whether that is a GP or a gynaecologist.

Dr Emily Cary, of Norfolk Menopause, says: “Many women are still caught unawares by perimenopause and the

physical and psychological symptoms that start years earlier than they anticipated, perhaps when menopause is not even on their radar.”

“Often women will think only of hot flushes when it comes to menopause” continues Mr Paul Simpson, “but there are myriad other symptoms that women may experience, including headaches, sleeplessness, vaginal dryness, skin changes, breast tenderness and more.”

Dr Susanne Ahlund is keen to stress that help is at hand and that women don’t need to su er in silence. “While HRT can be transformational,” she says, “it is not a one-size fits all approach and needs to be carefully tailored to get the best results.

in their lives,” says Dr Hannah Healy, a GP with Norfolk Menopause. “They often just don’t realise how little attention they give themselves. Self-care does not just mean spending money or pampering, it can encompass looking after your physical health (movement, nutrition and sleep), taking care of your mental health and thinking about your emotional health.”

Be kind to yourself

“Women are almost invariably incredibly tough on themselves and lack the compassion they would show others in the same situation,” says Dr Emily Cary.

“Try to notice when your inner voice is being critical or harsh, and replace those thoughts with kinder, more supportive

Women are often great at looking after others but not so good when it comes to their own health.

The long appointment times we can o er at Norfolk Menopause allow us to really get to know our patients and combine HRT, where indicated, with non-hormonal approaches and some life-coaching. This is particularly useful as low self-esteem is something that often accompanies this time of life, even in women who were previously very confident.”

If you are experiencing menopause or perimenopause symptoms then these tips from Norfolk Menopause may help:

Prioritise self-care.

“Mid-life women are often amazing at prioritising everyone and everything else

words. Ask yourself, would I say this to a friend? If not, then it’s a sign that it’s time to change the narrative.”

Accept change and embrace it

“Midlife can be a great time try new things,” says Mr Tim Duncan, a gynaecologist at Norfolk Menopause.

“Take up a new hobby, travel to places you’ve always wanted to visit, or learn something you’ve never had the time for. This can be something tiny to start with, but it might lead on to bigger things.”

To learn more or book at appointment go to www.nofollkmenopause.co.uk

Photography by Olivia White

No More 'Diet Starts Monday': Build Habits That Last

CRAZY

stat to

start us off—did you know the average person starts a new diet four times a year? Yet most give up within a week. Why? Because most diets are built on restriction rather than sustainable habits.

There comes a point for all of us when we say, "Enough is enough; diet starts Monday." How many times have you said this? I'm sure we all have—one or two (hundred) times, right? The reason is that we often have two settings: either "on" or "off." This mindset is exactly why we find ourselves forever starting over.

We either eat without much thought... or we're on a "diet"— restricting, calorie-counting, obsessing over the scales, and—let's be honest—feeling miserable while counting down to the weekend, a holiday, or reaching a certain goal when we can "live normally" again.

My belief? Sustainability and consistency are key. If you can't see yourself eating a certain way forever, it might not be the right approach—even short-term. Sure, you might tighten things up before a holiday or special occasion—but for the most part, your habits should be consistent. If you can't imagine life without carbs, living off shakes, or occasionally enjoying your favourite treats, that approach probably isn't ideal for long-term success. Sometimes, having the odd glass of wine or dessert might actually serve you better than falling into that allor-nothing "blowout" mentality that

derails your progress for days, weeks, or even months.

Additionally, there's a big difference between mentally restricting yourself and genuinely listening to your body. Restriction brings guilt, rigid rules, and the mindset of 'I can't have that.' Listening to your body is about tuning into hunger, fullness, and how certain foods make you feel—without shame or judgment. One leaves you feeling deprived; the other empowers you. The

more you practice it, the more balanced choices become second nature.

Food is fuel—and should be seen that way. You wouldn't fill a sports car with the wrong fuel or let the tank run empty and expect it to perform; your body is no different. I hear from clients all the time: “No food tastes as good as feeling good feels.” Saying no to something that doesn't agree with you is a choice your mind and body will thank you for later.

Practical Steps to Build a Healthy Relationship with Food

EAT MINDFULLY:

Slow down. Sit down to eat (yes, without your phone or TV), chew slowly, and tune into your hunger and fullness cues. Notice how you feel after meals— energised or sluggish? Your body gives clues; listen to them. (Check out next months article to understand how your body responds to food—and what the signs really mean.)

Focus on Adding, Not Restricting: Add more water, veggies, healthy fats, and protein. Nourish your body first, and you'll naturally crave less junk—without feeling deprived.

BUILD BALANCED MEALS:

Include protein, healthy fats, and fibrerich carbs to keep you fuller longer and stabilise energy. Carbs aren't the enemy—just choose unprocessed options when you can.

DITCH THE "ALL OR NOTHING" MENTALITY:

Had cake? Enjoy it, and move on. One meal won't derail you—consistency beats perfection.

USE THE SCALE WISELY:

It's just one tool. Celebrate other wins— like better sleep, more energy, and looser clothes.

MOVE IN WAYS YOU ENJOY:

Exercise shouldn't be a punishment. Walk, lift, dance—do what makes you happy, and you'll stick with it.

WRAPPING IT UP

This isn't about chasing perfection—it's about creating what feels right for you. Start small. Focus on one step. Little choices, repeated often, create lasting change. Next time you hear, "Diet starts Monday," challenge that thought. Why wait? Start with your next meal.

JOANNE... 20 Week Update:

The Comeback That

Whatdo weekly check-ins, endless support, and a sprinkling of determination get you?

For Joanne, it’s a whole new lease on life (and a wardrobe update)! She’s now fi tting comfortably in size 10 jeans—something she hadn’t slipped into in decades. Cue the happy dance!

But let’s be honest—it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Christmas rolled in with its usual temptations (crisps, snacks, and the odd drink), and old habits tried to crash the party. That’s where accountability made all the diff erence—the weekly check-ins and constant support meant she never stayed off track for long. Having a coach in her corner gave her the guidance (and occasional nudge) to keep moving forward, even when her motivation dipped.

Workouts? Still a bit of a love-hate situation. After a minor procedure slowed her down, moving as much as she wanted was tricky. But now? Mentally ready and raring to go! And despite festive indulgences, January blues, and recovery downtime, Joanne has still dropped another stone since Christmas.

Setbacks happen, and that’s okay. It’s the comebacks where the magic is.

And she’s not done yet! There’s still some weight loss juice left in the tank, and now she’s aiming to exceed her original goals. Plus, her energy is through the roof; she’s moving like never before and trying things she wouldn’t have even considered 20 weeks ago.

life without feeling restricted. Oh, and did we mention the compliments? People keep saying how much younger she looks (in her 60s!). At this point, we’re convinced she’s found the fountain of youth—either that or she’s got some serious anti-ageing secrets up her sleeve.

But perhaps the biggest win? Joanne’s outlook on food has completely changed. She’s ditched the all-or-nothing mindset, embraced balance, and realised she can maintain her weight success and keep rocking those size 10 jeans. It’s not just about weight loss anymore—it’s about living

Joanne’s journey is proof: setbacks happen, and that’s okay. It’s the comebacks where the magic is.

Landed Her in Size 10s www.evanbealescoaching.com

Great hearing STARTS WITH

PLATINUM PROMISE

Barry Jones is a highly-skilled Audiologist with over 15 years in the profession. At

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

Able Community Care has been in the same family for four decades and now provides livein care services throughout the UK.

Since 1980 we have provided care and have met with thousands of families who are seeking an alternative to moving into a residential care home. Meeting people inevitably leads, either at the time of an assessment or even years later, to questions for which people are looking for answers. Information around all aspects of care is available but the road to finding out, especially at a time of crisis, about specific factors can be difficult and stressful.

Able Community Care receives calls and emails on a regular basis with people asking if we can help with their search for information.Recently these questions have been asked of us...

Question – Recently I thought I smelt gas in my home, but luckily I was mistaken it was something else. If it had been gas, or as I did, think it might be, is there a telephone number which I can ring for advice or notification?

Answer - any person who believes they can smell gas should ring the National Gas Emergency Number on 0800 111 999. You should also evacuate the property and avoid anything that could spark the gas.

ASK ANGELA

ANGELA GIFFORD, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ABLE COMMUNITY CARE, ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS...

Question – Have you any tips about the information I should record when for a family member I wish to apply for Continuing Health Care Funding? What is the success rate?

Answer – One of the important tools to have in place when seeking Continuing Health Care Funding is to have a daily record book in place which should help to giving reasons as to why a person may be eligible for the funding.

Daily details of what care support is being given, details of any illness, changes in daily routine, details of all other professionals who come to visit, details of any medication being given, any changes in medications and any medication reviews or health reviews that take place. Record incidents such as falls, aids and equipment that are supplied to meet a new need, etc.

The proportion of assessments that result in eligibility varies from 5% to 58.3% depending on where you live.

Question – I live in a rural location and cannot easily get to a chemist. I am tempted to order my prescription medication with help from a neighbour who has the internet. How do I know if the products/medications mentioned are genuine and not fake?

Answer - Fake drugs sold in the UK can have severe health consequences and the advice to avoid buying fake medicines online is to ensure that:

• Any online pharmacy you are thinking of buying from is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).

• Any online doctor service saying they can prescribe is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC)_ and the General Medical Council.

We offer servicing, repairs, MOTs, vehicle upgrades and stock a range of 4x4 tyres for vehicles dating back to 1948 right up to the present day.

We are stockists of Allmakes, Britpart and genuine Land Rover parts, with over 17,000 stocklines.

We offer a daily delivery service across Norfolk and north Suffolkand aim to deliver within 24 hours of receiving your order.