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April 2016
Living life in the East
APRIL 2016
Make the most of where you live
STATELY CONCERTS THIS SUMMER
Issue 131
BRYAN FERRY LEVEL 42 GO WEST AND MORE ...
eastlife would like to thank its
CONTRIBUTORS LIZ JANE MATTOCK Passionate freelance writer GERLA DE BOER Globetrotter foodie AMANDA FRENCH Lifestyle blogger & PR pro
NICOLA SHEEHAN Mummy, blogger and frustrated novelist SUE COOKE Motoring journalist COLLETTE HOEFKENS Proprietor at Norton Way Gallery KATE GOULD Award-winning garden designer KATRINA OTTER Wedding planner extraordinaire
PUBLISHER Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696 EDITOR Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904
A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR Dear Reader, It’s time to pull yourself from the chocolate coma of Easter and make the most of April’s warmer weather. This month we have some fantastic ideas for enjoying the great outdoors. From practicing your swing on the golf course with our pick of pay and play courses to beach hopping on the North Norfolk coast, we’re getting out and about! If you’re a dog-owner don’t miss our round-up of the dog-friendliest places in the region on page 19. Every month we’ll be bringing you more suggestions for places to visit with your pooch! Elsewhere we cover the highlights of the Ely Eel Festival and list our top five events of the month. If you’re planning on holidaying in the East of England this summer, don’t forget to check out our annual tourism guides which are now available at www.eastlife.co.uk
PRODUCTION MANAGER Craig Lewis craig@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142
Emma Kemsley
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ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129 SALES ENQUIRIES Darren Marshall - 07826 628680 Stewart Hedges - 07595 894557 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635 HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth Cambridge, CB23 4EY EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.
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Uncompromising design. The all-new GLC-Class. Exterior styling is powerful yet refined, and the spacious interior combines premium materials and contemporary design with a wealth of technology. The GLC offers distinctive model lines including the SE, Sport and AMG line, whilst offering 0 to 62 mph in less than eight seconds and returns up to 56.5 mpg combined. Standard features include 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive while options include the Off-Road Package and AIR BODY CONTROL suspension to further enhance the car’s off-road credentials. Experience it yourself. Simply pop into your nearest Robinsons Mercedes-Benz retailer. Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the GLC range: urban 51.4(5.5), extra urban 60.1(4.7), combined 56.5(5.0). CO2 emissions 143-129 g/km.
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APRIL 9-13 news flash A round-up of monthly news and events 19-21 DOG-FRIENDLY HOTSPOTS The best doggy days out 25-27 NORTH NORFOLK COAST The ultimate guide to exploring the North Norfolk coastline 39 Little East Columnist Nicola Osbourne reveals her tips for rainy day entertainment 47–51 Food & Drink Thai Cookery School, Cambridge cocktails and 2016’s best foodie festivals 53-55 HEALTH Read our brand new column on healthly eating, plus tips for cycling 59-63 Fashion How to be Parisian chic this spring and the best places for vintage finds 64-67 Weddings Katrina Otter tells us how to weather proof a wedding 95-103 NORFOLK Norwich’s best bars, Wymondham and this month’s events 105-109 Beds, Bucks & Herts The best of Bedford plus theatre listings 112-119 Suffolk How to spend 48 hours in Bury St Edmunds and county events 123-129 ESSEX We put Rayleigh in the spotlight plus event listings 131-139 CAMBRIDGESHIRE Highlights of the Ely Eel Festival and theatre listings
contents
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Sussex Barn is an eighteenth century brick and flint barn situated on Sussex Farm, just outside the attractive village of Burnham Market. It has been carefully restored to make an ideal location for truly individual Wedding Receptions, Civil Weddings, Dances, Parties, Conferences and Exhibitions The barn is a fully licensed venue and still retains much of its old character – including a 120ft deep well in the bar area.
Thompson Brancaster Farms Holiday Cottages are the ideal base from which to explore all that North West Norfolk has to offer. Alternatively you can just wind down on the beach or by the barbecue in summer or relax by the fireside in your cottage in the winter. Scenic North West Norfolk offers beautiful unspoilt countryside, long sandy beaches, famous nature reserves, big wide skies and above all, a real chance to get away from it all and relax.
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Celebrate the 80s at Holkham Hall Bryan Ferry performs 11 June
Concerts at stately homes in the East of England have firmly been put on the map by Live Promotions Events Ltd. Taking place at Burghley House on Saturday 11 June, the company is presenting the iconic Bryan Ferry in concert. Up to 10,000 concert-goers are expected at Burghley, the home of the famous horse trials, to see Bryan Ferry who has included the venue in his summer concert series just prior to his U.S. Tour. At Holkham Hall on bank holiday weekend, Saturday 27 August, it’s a celebration of the 80s with an impressive line-up of acts that have all enjoyed chart success, in many cases around the world. Managing Director Colin Ward said: “We wanted to present an all-star cast of 80s hit makers in a festival atmosphere set against the impressive back drop of Holkham Hall - it will be the perfect bank holiday weekend concert!”
Topping the bill is Level 42, who will be joined by Big Country, Go West, Jaki Graham, Heatwave and Nathan Moore from Brother Beyond. Both events open their gates at 5pm so that concert-goers can bring along chairs and blankets and even enjoy a picnic before the music commences. “We look at our concerts from the customer’s point of view,” adds Colin. “It’s not just about turning up for the music, it’s about the ambience and the whole experience. “At Live we believe that the perfect setting is as important to enjoying a wonderful concert as much as the act, that’s why we select only the best venues with truly superb back drops such as Burghley House, Stamford and Holkham Hall, Norfolk for our concerts.” Car parking is available at both concerts. Bryan Ferry tickets priced from £39.50, Celebration of the 80s priced from £34.50. Tickets for Live’s stately home concerts can be obtained online at www.livepromotionsconcerts.co.uk
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ST GEORGE’S FESTIVAL Sat 23 – Sun 24 April 10am – 6pm Witness the ultimate showdown as gallant St George takes on his arch nemesis in England’s most legendary battle.
Silsoe, Bedfordshire, MK45 4HR
The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.
THE VARSITY HOTEL & SPA TO OPEN NEW £2MILLION RESTAURANT The Varsity Hotel & Spa in Cambridge, is to launch an all-day skyline eatery, transforming its entire top tier into a new dining destination for the city and its residents. Opening from the end of April to guests and locals alike, The Varsity is investing £2 million to launch the restaurant, which is projected to add at least 40 jobs to the local economy. The 120 cover restaurant and bar will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a weekend brunch offering. It will be housed on the sixth floor, below the hotel’s iconic rooftop garden and will be open all year round. Floor to ceiling windows throughout and two spectacular terraces will provide diners with a breath-taking panorama of historic Cambridge and the sight of punts gliding down the picturesque River Cam. The new eatery will be in addition to the well-established restaurant, The River Bar Steakhouse & Grill. www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk
Hylands Estate Announces Events Programme for 2016 Hylands Estate has announced details of its 2016 events programme. The Farmers and Crafts Markets at Hylands takes place from 10am-4pm on the first Sunday of every month. For those with a passion for stitching the Keen Quilters Exhibition will take over the ground floor of Hylands House on 9-11 April. A theatrical summer kicks off on Sunday the 15 May with ‘A Night at the Opera’ at 7.30-10pm, tickets are priced from £12. Here you’ll be treated to an unforgettable evening of singing by classical sopranos Amelia Burns and Rachael Farr who’ll take you on a musical tour of all the operatic favourites. The end of the summer sees a touring production of Beatrix Potter’s ‘Once Upon a Time There Were Four Little Rabbits’ on the back lawn where guests are welcome to bring a picnic. Hylands also has plans for an Open Air Cinema, Flower Show, Dog Show, Christmas Soiree, and a Christmas panto. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylands
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Rose Lodge Care Home, Market Deeping Family means a lot to all of us and we understand the importance of selecting the right care home. To find out more about Rose Lodge or arrange a visit, please call 01778 344454, email info@countrycourtcare. com, or visit our website on www.countrycourtcare.com.
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Our philosophy is simple; Our residents and their families are at the heart of everything we do!
Win tickets to see Will Young We’ve teamed up with The Jockey Club Live and Newmarket Nights to offer readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to see Will Young perform at the July Course on 24 June. There’s two pairs of tickets up for grabs! To enter visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/east lifemag and tells us your favourite Will Young song – it’s that easy! Full details and terms and conditions can be found at www.eastlife.co.uk. Will Young will be joining the likes of Jess Glynne as part of the summer concert seaon, who will be headlining on 12 August, The Corrs on 17 June, Busted on 22 July, Tears for Fears 29 July and Little Mix on 27 August. Tickets for all shows are available now from thejockeyclublive.co.uk
EACH Treehouse Colour Dash returns for a third year East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) have announced that The Treehouse Colour Dash is back on Sunday 29 May at at Christchurch Park, Ipswich. Colour dashes are the latest craze to hit the UK and see participants race around a 5km course as they are showered with clouds of coloured powder – creating truly impressive multi-coloured results! Online registration is now open for the 1,000 places available. EACH cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across the region and supports their families. All the funds raised at this event will go towards providing these vital services. Adult places priced £20, children 5-16 £10, under 5s free. Family places cost £45 and a team (min.10 people) is £17.50 per person. www.each.org.uk/colour-dashes
Norfolk & Norwich Festival announces full 2016 programme The Norfolk & Norwich Festival, one of the biggest arts festivals in the UK, has announced the programme for the 2016 event from 13 – 29 May. The programme features theatre, music, visual arts, literature and events for children. Highlights include ‘Flat’, which opens the free outdoors programme. www.nnfestival.org.uk
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WOMEN URGED TO JOIN THE PINK ARMY AND SIGN UP TO RACE FOR LIFE A Cambridge mum and daughter who’ve been taking part in Race for Life ever since the first event in the city in 2001 will be taking part again for this years 16th Race For Life event. Jenny Caughtry and her 15-year-old daughter Hannah, who live in Stapleford, are urging others to join them in the fight against the disease by entering Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life 5k, 10k and Pretty Muddy events across the region. Ann was diagnosed with bowel cancer in May 1993. Only 10 months later, just three days after her 50th birthday and five days before her 25th wedding anniversary, Ann lost her brave battle, leaving her husband and three daughters behind. Jenny, who’s 43, said: “Not once during her illness did Mum complain but her death left a huge hole in all our lives and unfortunately she has missed out on three marriages and the birth of five grandchildren. “All the grandchildren are very aware of who nana is and regularly talk about her, we make sure she is as big a part of our lives as possible even though she’s not with us.” When Race for Life came to Cambridge in 2001, Jenny and Mandy signed up to run in their mum’s honour. Hannah was just a year old but was there to support them. Jenny and Mandy have raced for life every year since, with Hannah walking the course for the first time when she was four years old.
Jenny said: “It is an amazing event, filled with so many emotions, all raising money for such a worthy cause. Everybody knows somebody touched by this dreadful disease.
pair of trainers. You don’t need to buy the latest design, just a comfortable and supportive shoe. And check out the Race for Life website for a range of brightly coloured t-shirts and leggings to help you train in style.
“We do Race for Life to raise money for research because we need to make sure more and more people survive. Unfortunately 20 years ago when mum was ill, treatments were not as advanced but 20 years on and more people are surviving and hopefully in another 20 we’ll do even better. Don't just think about joining in – do it!”
STEP TO THE BEAT music is a great way to feel inspired and stay motivated, so why not create your own Race for Life playlist featuring some of your favourite tracks? Anything with a high tempo will keep your feet moving and help you to focus on the finish line!
Every hour, 3 people are diagnosed with cancer in the East. And that’s why Cancer Research UK is calling on women across the region to fight back against this devastating disease by signing up to Race for Life now.
MAXIMISE YOUR TIME keep a spare pair of trainers and workout kit at work or in your car, so you’re always ready to head out for an impromptu walk or jog. Or start getting off your bus or train a stop earlier and walking the rest of the way, to incorporate your training into your daily routine.
Danielle Glavin, Cancer Research UK’s Spokesperson in Cambridge, said: “Race for Life events are not competitive. They are not about being fit or fast. It’s about an army of women standing shoulder-to-shoulder in the fight against cancer. “Our aim is that one day everyone will beat cancer. The more research we can fund, the sooner that day will come - so ladies, it’s time to pull on your leggings, join the pink army and get ready to Race for Life.” Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an inspiring women-only series of 5k, 10k and Pretty Muddy events which raises millions of pounds every year to help beat 200 different types of cancer. TOP TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE EVENT: RECRUIT YOUR FRIENDS having a shared goal can be really motivating and can help to keep you on track, so why not give your social life a workout too and sign up for Race for Life with a group of your friends. Most women can walk 5k whilst chatting and having fun. SMALL CHANGES MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE don’t try to run before you can walk! Just a 15 minute walk every day can help to improve your fitness levels and make you feel more energised. Why not fit this in before work, or get some of your colleagues to join you during your lunch hour? BE PREPARED make sure you drink enough water before and after any physical activity, and remember to always warm up and cool down before and after exercise. GET KITTED OUT to keep your feet in good shape whilst you pound the pavements, you might want to invest in a new
Becoming more active has longerterm benefits, as research shows that regular, moderate physical activity reduces the risk of cancer. Not only does it help you keep a healthy body weight, it also has a protective effect in itself. Free training plans for different levels of ability are available on the Race for Life website.
TO ENTER RACE FOR LIFE, VISIT
raceforlife.org
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Events are happening at Shuttleworth this spring! Afternoon Tea with an optional tour of The House on Sunday 24 April, Season Premiere at The Collection on Sunday 8 May - with a flying display that features the Avro Lancaster and the spectacular Red Arrows, NGS Open Day on Sunday 24 April and Mad Hatters May Day Festival in the Swiss Garden on Sunday 1 May.
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03 March East Life Dog Friendly FP _Layout 1 23/03/2016 17:01 Page 1
Hidden treasure... ...for all to enjoy Ufford Park Woodbridge
Everyone welcome, even your four-legged friend! Fantastic views of the Deben Valley await you at Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa. Situated in the perfect location to enjoy all that Suffolk has to offer; whether you're looking to explore the county with your family, or enjoy a relaxed weekend away with friends. Home-cooked and locally sourced food is served all day.
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LIFESTYLE
IT’S A DOG’S LIFE
Written by Emma Kemsley
April is National Pet Month, and in honour of our fluffy friends we’ve rounded up the best pet-friendly spots in the region I’ll admit it, I’m obsessed with my dog, and if my pooch isn’t welcome, well then that’s a place I don’t want to visit anyway. You wouldn’t expect me to leave a child outside a restaurant, so what’s the problem with a cute doe-eyed pup? Fortunately, a fair part of East Anglia feels the same way, and more and more establishments are beginning to welcome our four-legged friends. To make travelling with a pet a little easier, read my recommendations for places to eat, stay and visit with your pooch… Dog-friendly hotels Titchwell Manor, Norfolk The North Norfolk boutique hotel goes to the top of our list for staying and dining with a dog. A ma jority of the hotel is dog-friendly including the bar area and a selected part of the restaurant. I was lucky enough to recently stay overnight with my Spaniel who seemed to enjoy his stay just as much as me. Our dog-friendly room was spacious, extremely clean and contemporary. The room came with its own doggy bed, towel, water bowl and a bag of treats, which he wasted no time devouring. Its close proximity to Titchwell Marsh and Brancaster beach mean there are miles and miles of walks to explore. Most beaches in the area allow dogs year round too. I did think he’d be inclined to jump on my bed in the night, but no, he understood the rules, and that doggy bed was obviously far too comfortable to move from. As well as great dog-friendly facilities, the friendly staff couldn’t resist stopping for a cuddle and giving him a cheeky treat now and then too. If you’re looking for a short break or a dinner date with your dog (and significant other of course), then Titchwell Manor ticks all the boxes. www.titchwellmanor.com
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Hotel Felix, Cambridge Due to demand, Hotel Felix has launched a ‘dog package’. You can now treat your canine to a cultural break in Cambridge. Located just outside the city, the hotel is an excellent base for exploring and extends a warm welcome to well-behaved dogs. Your pet can explore the spacious grounds, bask in sunshine on the Victorian villa’s south-facing terrace or snooze in the airy orangery. Nearby, take a walk together in the woodland grounds of Girton College or, better still, go punting with your pooch for fine views of the historic university buildings while gliding along the River Cam. An overnight stay costs from £220 per room (two-sharing) including full English breakfast and a bag of organic dog treats. There is a charge of £15 per dog per stay. www.hotelfelix.co.uk Brudenell and White Lion Hotels, Aldeburgh What could be better than a doggy holiday right on the seafront? Set in one of Britain’s best seaside locations on Suffolk’s Heritage Coast, the sea front Brudenell and White Lion Hotels in Aldeburgh welcome dogs to stay with their owners in their rooms at £10 per dog per night. Every dog receives a welcome tasty treat and they can then enjoy the freedom of a beach run and a dip in the sea. The Brudenell is idyllically located just steps away from the beach with spectacular, uninterrupted sea views and dogs are welcome on its sea-facing terrace. www.brudenellhotel.co.uk www.whitelion.co.uk
Doggy dishes The Three Tuns, Great Hormead, Herts A Sunday stroll and pint at the pub go hand-in-hand. Whether you live locally or fancy visiting somewhere new try the The Three Tuns, a pretty thatched pub dating from the 16th Century and nestled in the Hertfordshire village of Great Hormead. A perfect dog-friendly destination the pub has a secure enclosed garden, dog treats on the bar and bowls of water at the ready for those thirsty after enjoying one of the lovely countryside walks that surround it. Landlord Neil Martin is the chef serving dishes which, as far as possible, use fresh local produce whilst his wife Anita runs the bar and front of house. They have two dogs themselves, Ruby the boxer and Zenna the Spinone, who Anita will be showing for the second time at Crufts this year. Ideal for any occasion, how about celebrating your dog’s birthday at The Three Tuns? It’s the perfect place for a ‘pawty’ and Neil will even whip up a birthday cake if you ask in advance. www.3tuns.com The Orange Tree, Thornham, Norfolk Frequently referred to as probably the most dog-friendly pub in Norfolk, canine friends are welcome at the bar and even have their own doggy menu to choose from. Delicacies include pig’s ears, washed down with gravy and a doggy sausage roll! Water bowls are always available. www.theorangetreethornham.co.uk
Image: Hotel Felix
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The Sir Garnet, Norwich It’s rare you find a city food establishment that opens its door to dogs in the dining area, but thankfully The Sir Garnet does just that. Overlooking the market, visitors can enjoy a selection of tapas dishes, while their pooch enjoys the views. My dog was more than happy to watch over the Market Square from the second floor bay window while I enjoyed lunch with friends. www.thesirgarnet.co.uk
North Norfolk What dog doesn’t love a run on the beach? It’s no secret Norfolk is one of the dog-friendliest counties in the country, and with miles upon miles of gorgeous coastline available for your pooch to explore year round, plus plenty of cafes, pubs and restaurants offering homemade dog treats, make sure a visit is on your to do list this year! For more places to stay and visit read our guide to the region on page 25.
Paw-fect places to visit Mersea Island, Essex Approached by a causeway from the mainland, cut off at high spring tide, and just eight square miles, Mersea Island is a grand adventure for a dog and owners too. West Mersea has a May to September restriction but it’s still possible to enjoy the best of Mersea during these months. Dogs are welcome outside at the West Mersea Oyster Bar, let your pooch rest his legs while looking out to the sea as you tuck into freshly caught seafood. Try a spot of crabbing on the jetty or if your dog likes to feel the wind in his fur jump aboard Lady Grace Boat Trips. The 20-minute trip runs seven days a week and the captain is more than happy to welcome well-behaved dogs on board. If your dog prefers to run on the beach East Mersea allows dogs all year.
Wyevale Garden Centres It’s nice when our dogs can do the little things with us, which is why Wyevale Garden Centres are proud to say that its centres are dog-friendly. Many of its centres also have substantial traffic-free outdoor areas where dogs can run around - ideal for rendering the next stage of the journey little more than an opportunity for a restorative snooze. There is always fresh water waiting for pets at every centre. www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/garden-centres Look out for our dog-friendly recommendations in every issue of Eastlife from May! Do you and and your pooch have a favourite place? Share it with us on Facebook www.facebook.com/eastlifemag
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Retired Greyhound Trust
All g Do Breeds Welcome
Greyhound Extravaganza Greyhound Show & All Breeds Fun Dog Show
Sunday 29th May 2016 Held at the Animal Health Trust Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU
Registration from 9:00 am - Judging from 10:30 am For info contact the show organisers on 0845 602 2658 or 07787 701695
www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk
facebook.com/rgtrust | twitter.com/rgt_uk
At Petrest, we understand that losing a companion animal is heartbreaking. By taking the time now, you can pre-arrange your pet’s funeral and be assured of a final farewell that is personal and fitting. At Petrest we offer funeral plans that can be tailored to your requirements, so that you can have complete peace of mind when the time comes. To discuss our funeral plans or request a Funeral Plan Pack, call Petrest on 0330 332 8227 or visit www.petrest.co.uk.
facebook.com/petrestfuneral
@petrestfuneral
Charity Numbers 269668 & SC044047
Presents
the boathouse ormesby broad
A warm welcome is guaranteed at our magical waterfront location, overlooking the beautiful Ormesby Broad.
Traditional pub dining with some tasty chefs specials. Eat, drink, relax and enjoy The Boathouse. Booking advisable: 01493 730342
The Boathouse, Ormesby Broad, Eels Foot Road, Ormesby St. Michael, Norfolk NR29 3LP
www.theboathouseormesbybroad.co.uk
Norfolk Fishing Trips Website: www.norfolkfishingtrips.co.uk Email: info@norfolkfishingtrips.co.uk Tel: 01485 517610 (Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm) April – September Sailing from Brancaster Staithe 3.5 hour Mackerel/Bass trip - £35 per person 8.5 hour Tope/Mackerel/Bass/Skate trip – £85 per person October – March Sailing from Lowestoft 4 hour Father & Son Cod trip – £40 per person 6 hour Cod trip - £65 per person All trips include bait, rods, reels & teas/coffees Longer trips also include lunch. Gift vouchers can be purchased for all of our trips
Albatros Bar, Restaurant, B&B
Traditional DUTCH CUISINE incl. our famous Dutch PANCAKES Speciality Lodging/B&B Live Music Every Weekend Private & Corporate Parties Dine below deck in our cosy seating and bar area or alfresco on the main deck with fantastic views of the harbour and marshes
Visit Our Website
www.albatroswells.co.uk
If you would like to make a booking or have any further enquiries please contact Captain Ton Brouwer On board historic sailing ship ALBATROS, The Quay, Wells-next-to-sea.
email info@albatroswells.co.uk
For Enquiries
07979 087228
THE BEST OF
NORTH
Norfolk Written by Emma Kemsley Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are returning for the tenth, read our guide to making the most of this beautiful region…
With 93 miles of coastline, quaint villages and an array of attractions, North Norfolk is a holiday hotspot year round. I headed for its sandy shores in February to find out how to make the most of the area during a short break. PLACES TO STAY It was dark when we arrived on a cold Saturday evening, and by dark I mean pitch black. I sat in the car with a sleepy dog, while I sent my husband on a mission to find the key to our Norfolk Hideaways cottage (www.norfolkhide aways.co.uk). We were in Holme-next-the-Sea, and staying in Columbine Cottage, a two-bedroom dog-friendly home. Norfolk Hideaways had given us clear directions to finding the cute cobbled cottage and once inside we were pleasantly surprised by its quaint features and homely feel. Waking up refreshed after a good night’s sleep, we wrapped up, headed out, pooch in tow, and made our way to the beach. Within less than five minutes we found ourselves at the edge of the sand dunes at Holme. Backed by a golf course, the golden sand and grassy dunes stretched for miles beyond us. We started walking towards Hunstanton, passing many dog walkers on our way. A beautiful way to start the day, it’s clear to see why Norfolk’s coastline is among the most popular in the country. Despite the winter chill, we were blessed with blue skies that made for great photo opportunities. We stopped to warm up with a cup of coffee at The Old Boathouse Cafe in Old Hunstanton, while the pooch munched on their homemade dog treats. Holme-next-the-Sea
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Once back at the cottage we had a light brunch made easily with the fully equipped kitchen and put our feet up in front of the log fire before hopping into the car to explore nearby Wells-next-the-Sea. For anyone looking for a self-catering base to discover the coastline, this Norfolk Hideaways cottage is a must. With two spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms, a conservatory (very convenient for drying off a wet dog) and additional designer pod in the garden, it’s ideal for a mini-break or longer stay – especially in the summer with the beach just a few minutes away! If a hotel is more your style, North Norfolk has plenty of options dotted along the coastline. The Ship in Brancaster has nine bedrooms, while a favourite with visitors is Titchwell Manor, located opposite the Titchwell Marshes. Once a Victorian farmhouse, the boutique hotel features 27 beautifully designed bedrooms, a bar and restaurant. We escaped the cold on a Monday afternoon with a drink in front of the roaring fire in the bar area. The restaurant is housed in a contemporary conservatory overlooking the garden area, and has a dog-friendly section at the far end of the bar. Further along the coastline in Wells, The Crown Hotel has recently announced the addition of 10 new suites. Owned by chef Chris Coubrough of ITV’s Coastal Kitchen and his wife Jo, better known as the brewer behind Jo C’s Norfolk Ale, they will be renovating the former staff quarters at the hotel to add new luxury rooms called the ‘Copper Bath’ suites to the 12 existing bedrooms.
Shopping hotspots It’s not just about sandy shores in North Norfolk, there’s plenty of hidden gems too. In Thornham village you’ll find Drove Orchards, home to a mix of independent boutiques and a fantastic little farm shop. Further along the coastline, Dalegate Market is becoming a popular choice for shopping and a bite to eat. It’s home to names such as Fat Face and Gone Crabbing, and regular pop-up markets. Hailed as ‘Chelsea on Sea’ because of its high-end feel and popularity with city dwellers, the pretty village is lined with beautiful colourful homes, independent boutiques and tea rooms. The Hoste, is a hub for locals, while Gurneys Fish Shop with its traditional front and appearance is iconic of the village. Collen & Clare and Anna’s offer the latest women’s fashions, and Pentney House is stocked with quirky accessories and gifts, and a hat shop on its second floor. Don’t miss the weekly auctions held on the Green every Monday from June.
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Titchwell Manor
White Horse, Brancaster
Places to Eat North Norfolk is a foodie paradise. Cromer Crab, Brancaster mussels and local specialties are all on the menu. For a seafood snack make a pit stop at The Crab Hut on Harbour Way in Brancaster Staithe, open daily from 10am – 5pm from Easter until October. The White Horse, which overlooks the marshland coastline at Brancaster, serves food from 9am to 9pm, while Eric’s Fish & Chips in the village of Thornham is the perfect way to finish a day of exploring the coastline. If it’s fine dining you’d prefer, book a table at Titchwell Manor. The menu offers a tempting mix of seafood and meat dishes. We simply couldn’t leave North Norfolk without trying some of the locally caught seafood and where better to tuck into oysters and mussels than in this warm, welcoming restaurant. After the best starter I have had in a long time, we dined on succulent lamb, accompanied by fresh seasonal vegetables and creamy mash. There was just enough room left for a sweet and colourful dessert. Whether you’re staying in the area or just passing through, a meal at Titchwell Manor is a must. www.titchwellmanor.com
THE BEST BEACHES FOR... We spent a day driving from beach to beach to bring you a quick guide of the best:
With so many unspoilt family-friendly beaches a short distance from each other, beach hopping is must if you’re to make the most of the region. Hunstanton…best for rock pools Once the tide goes out, the beach is left with rock pools to explore at the base of the cliffs, which provides hours of family fun.
Brancaster…best for peace and quiet Backed by sand dunes, the peaceful beach can be enjoyed year round. Dog-friendly, spacious and quiet, enjoy walking for miles without seeing a soul, perch on the dunes for a picnic or pick up your camera and snap the stunning scenery. If you’re lucky you might even spot some seals at the point where the marshes join the sea.
Above Image credit: Lucas Scott Photography
Holkham…best for walks Part of one of the largest National Nature Reserves in the country and home to rare species of flora and fauna, this is one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the UK. A short walk left me feeling peaceful, refreshed and thankful for living within close distance to such a stunning area.
Wells…best for families Backed by a pine forest and lined with colorful beach huts, Wells is picture perfect. A huge expanse of golden sand and gorgeous back-drop make it ideal for picnics, sandcastle building and kite flying. Despite it being February (although very mild), we noticed a young family who just couldn’t resist putting their toes in the sand. Part of the beach is dog-friendly year round. During summer make the most of the weather and hire Beach Hut 82 (The Den) from Love Cottages. Well-equipped with a small kitchen and veranda, it has everything you need for a long lazy day at the beach. Wells Quay
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THE BLAKENEY
COTTAGE COMPANY
The Granary, High Street, Blakeney, North Norfolk NR25 7AL
10% OFF
a seal trip for everyone who stays with us.
THE BLAKENEY COTTAGE COMPANY
Specialising in luxury self-catering holiday properties in North Norfolk from romantic hideaways to deluxe barn conversions with coastal views.
Tel: 01263 741777
bookings@blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk www.blakeneycottagecompany.co.uk
Amazona Zoo Logo paws
it’sss Braziliant!
Explore the Amazona in Cromer
Coming in 2016 Leaf Cutter Ant exhibition
Amazona Zoo Rainforest Springs logo
Try the Jumping Pillows!
South American Animal Adventure
amazonazoo.co.uk South American Animal Adventure
Hall Road, Cromer NR27 9JG Tel. 01263 510741 Facebook.com/AmazonaZoo
@AmazonaZoo
amazonazoo.co.uk
P& Play ay
Written by Liz Jane Mattock
Is it a birdie, albatross or eagle? You might be mistaken for thinking this article is about falconry or wildlife – in fact we are actually taking a swing at the top golf courses in East Anglia. As the weather brightens up and keen golfers dust off their clubs and grab their caddies, we’ll guide you over green fairways and through the latest pay and play courses to tee off successfully and avoid getting stuck in a bunker this spring.
SUFFOLK
Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club Felixstowe, Suffolk, IP11 9RY Tel: 01394 286834 The golf club at Felixstowe has recently been voted as one of the top 200 golf courses in the UK, offering pay and play facilities for non-members on a superb 9-hole course. A day’s golf is priced at £60. www.felixstowegolf.co.uk High Lodge Leisure Haw Wood, Darsham, Suffolk, IP17 3QT Tel: 01986 784347 High Lodge offers visitors a complete sporting break or simply a relaxing game of golf, including pay and play. The course offers 9-holes and is set in beautiful surroundings. The on-site clubhouse offers a bar for refreshments and is available to members and non-members seven days a week. www.highlodge.co.uk Ufford Park Golf Course Ufford Park Woodbridge, Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1QW Tel: 01394 382836 Ufford Park is renowned in the county for its superb course. Featuring an 18-hole course and Suffolk’s only two-storey driving range, the course is available for pay and play, and five and seven day memberships. Excellent drainage on the course means it can be played year round. www.uffordpark.co.uk/en/golf Norfolk Searles Golf Club South Beach Road, Hunstanton, PE36 5BB Tel: 01485 536 010 Set on the South Beach Road, this pay and play resort offers 9-holes, on-site refreshments, parking and even a sea breeze. Designed in a links style, the course makes the most of natural features including the winding river and the reed beds. www.searles.co.uk/things-to-do/golf
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De Vere Dunston Hall Golf Club Ipswich Road, Dunston, Norwich, NR14 8PQ Tel: 01508 470444 Dunston Hall is set in stunning surroundings and boasts a 6,275 yard golf course. The course is open to non-members on a pay and play scheme. Prices vary per season, age and length of session. The course is suitable for all standards. www.qhotels.co.uk/our-locations/dunston-hall/golf Cambridgeshire/Hertfordshire Royston Golf Club Baldock Road, Royston SG8 5BG Tel: 01763 243476 Women looking to take up a new outdoor activity with friends this spring are being encouraged to try love.golf, a new, social coaching experience at Royston Golf Club. love.golf has been specially developed for women with an approach focused on learning as a group and by playing the game on the golf course, rather than spending lots of time on a practice range. The all-inclusive programme includes six weekly sessions starting Saturday 30 April. www.roystongolfclub.co.uk Heydon Grange Golf & Country Club Heydon, Nr Royston, SG8 7NS Tel: 01763 208988 Heydon Grange is perfect for winter/spring golf as there are no temporary greens here. Situated just a few miles from Cambridge, the club boasts 27-holes and is open to members, societies and pay and play visitors. This course offers a more experienced setting, with a choice of three challenging par 72 courses. Nine-holes of golf start from as little as £9 per person. www.heydongrange.co.uk The Gog Magog Golf Club Shelford Bottom, Cambridge, CB22 3AB Tel: 01223 247626
The Gog Magog offers two very distinct golfing experiences. The Old Course which opened in 1901, offering a charming setting for all abilities. The Wandlebury Course, which opened in 1997, is a professional course hosting qualifying tournaments throughout the year. Both are open to non-members on a pay and play basis and prices start from £30 day play. www.gogmagog.co.uk Thorpe Wood Golf Club Nene Parkway, Peterborough,PE3 6SE Tel: 01733 267701 Thorpe Wood and Orton Meadows are set in beautiful surroundings offering a course for the more experienced golfer looking for a new challenge or change of scenery. Close to the centre of Peterborough, it’s an ideal location for a relaxing golf break. Both courses, The Granary or the Woodman have breath-taking views. www.neneparkgolf.com
Foot Golf Footgolf is a fairly new phenomenon taking the UK by storm. Using a size 5 football, the aim is to get the ball into the hole using only the players’ feet in the least number of attempts possible. The sport combines both attributes of football and golf and can be played by any one from rookie to pro. Fancy a go, visit one of these Footgolf venues: Tea Green Golf Club - 01582 731135 www.ukfootgolf.com Cambridge FootGolf Centre - 0800 689 9552 www.ukfootgolf.com/cambridge Little Hay Golf Complex - 01442 507100 www.littlehaygolfclub.co.uk Eagles Golf Centre - 01553 827147 www.eaglesgolfonline.co.uk
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MCN-Summer-Festival-2016-Ad-A4-160208_GW.indd 1
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TOP Events in April
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Chase those April showers away and get exploring East Anglia this spring. Liz Mattock has five events you don’t want to miss this month.
Venetian Masquerade Charity Ball
16 April 2016, 6pm - late Radisson Park Inn, 2 St Marys Street, MK42 0AR A charity ball hosted to raise money for The Brain Tumour Charity for children with cancer. Tickets are £55 for this black tie event. www.lovebedford.co.uk
Last Night of the Proms 23 April 2016 12a Minster Precincts, Peterborough, PE1 1XS This event is in aid of the mayor’s charities so donations are welcome with music from the Royal Anglican Regiment Band. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk
Maldon Beer and Cider Festival 6-9 April 2016 Plume School, Fambridge Road, Maldon, CM9 6AB The 14th Maldon Beer & Cider Festival. featuring 60 beers including tipples from local breweries plus 16 ciders sourced from Essex and elsewhere in the UK. www.maldonanddengiecamra.org.uk
Ladies Day – Fashion, beauty and Afternoon Tea 21 April, 1.30pm – late afternoon Manor Mews, Fakenham Road, Tattersettt, PE31 8RS The day includes fashion shows, beauty tips and tricks as well as afternoon tea. Tickets are £20 per person. All proceeds will go towards The Norfolk Hospice, Tapping House. www.norfolkhospice.org.uk
The Magic of Minsmere Saturday/Sunday throughout April Westleton, Saxmundham, IP17 3BY Minsmere (RSPB) Nature Reserve offers guided walks throughout April. Walks last 2-3 hours and are tailored to the season and visitor knowledge. www.rspb.org.uk/minsmere
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EOR2199-ADV0009-East-Life-Ad-002.pdf
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The Epping Ongar Railway is a fantastic, great value and accessible day out for the family. We are extremely easy to get to - our heritage buses pick you up from right outside Epping Underground and Shenfield stations. We are open every weekend, Bank Holiday and Wednesdays in the school holidays from Easter to October.
www.eorailway.co.uk Epping Ongar Railway
@eorailway
03/02/2016
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Creating opportunities… realising potential… living life to the full! We are an independent co-educational day school and nursery for 2–11 year olds Call us today on 01279 657706 or visit www.howegreenhouseschool.co.uk
Open Morning Saturday 14th May 10am-12pm Howe Green House School, Great Hallingbury, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire CM22 7UF
HOW TO BEAT THOSE APRIL SHOWERS… Drip, drip, drop little April shower, beating a tune as you fall all around… It’s that time of year when the daffodils are in bloom, the lambs are leaping and spring has sprung a leak from big fat rainclouds. Some of you may be the type to whip out the kagoule, fill up the thermos with homemade soup and take in the wonder of mother nature through the showers, and I salute you. However, my son and I don’t really do wet play unless it involves a heated pool and inflatables so when it rains we take cover at home and the best way to take cover is in a blanket fort. Building a blanket fort is one of those activities that you can pretend you are doing for the kids but really you are revelling in the joy of it just as much of the little ones and you probably have the things you need nearby. Depending on what you want your fort for will change where you want to put it. In the Osborne household a blanket fort is a place to bed down for a movie marathon so we tend to build ours in the lounge but if yours is a hideout for the kids then the bedroom or playroom are good bets. Use what’s nearby, we drag the cushions off the sofa which we then spin around to give us our back ‘wall’. A dining chair or two either end will provide a
MUM’s THE WORD good framework for the roof. Fitted sheets are ace if your fort fits their size but if not fix your sheet or blanket with clothes pegs, be cautious of overloading the roof as then you’ll be in danger of it caving in. Drape sheets or duvet covers over any spaces at the sides where light can get in and then pile in as many cushions as you can find. The accepted dress code for a blanket fort is, of course, pyjamas so you’ll probably want a cosy blanket or duvet to snuggle under. Once built you need to stock the fort with snacks, decide on your movie playlist and bed down with the other invitees (usually siblings and soft toys). You will be in your own little world and the rain will bother you as much as the cold bothers Elsa. Do be warned though a well built blanket fort can be a wrench to part from. We have been known to eat pizza in one whilst shouting at Dimbleby. I told you it wasn’t just for the kids... Read more from Nicola Osborne at nicolasheehanauthor.wordpress.com @Osbornosaurus
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EDUCATION
How to Learn a New LANGUAGE Written by Henry Fagg
Need a motivational push to get started on learning a new language? From culture to politics, there are a myriad of great benefits to this pursuit. Perhaps in school you were told about the benefits of learning a foreign language. Teachers may have said: “Put it on your CV and you’ll be more attractive to employers” or “it improves your overall academic performance”. These things are true: learning a second language does help with employability, and also stimulates the intellect, giving you better communication, reasoning and linguistic skills - even in your native language. However impressive such arguments are, they don’t get to the core of language learning. They are similar to the arguments sometimes used for learning a musical instrument, which is said to improve overall cognitive ability. The fact is that becoming proficient in a language or musical instrument requires dedication, time and not a little hard work, and to succeed you will need to tap into a deeper well of motivation. Put simply, you may have to fall in love with the language itself. Once this becomes the starting point for your learning, it will help you overcome the technical challenges which can at times seem overwhelming.
And it is not hard to fall in love once you viscerally ‘get’ the world that a language can open up to you: culture, books, art, film, fashion, music, history, politics, food, places to visit, people to meet and friends to make. Learning a foreign language is an exhilarating journey, and the more fun you make it, the more you will succeed. You will develop personally, emotionally, professionally, intellectually and socially. It can sometimes be tricky to connect with this love of learning when you’re faced with, for example, umpteen words to learn for your GCSE French! However, help is at hand. You can read dozens of inspirational articles written by language tutors on The Tutor Pages website. For example, at www.thetutorpages.com/french-tutors or www.thetutorpages.com/spanish-tutors And if you need extra support, then employing a language tutor is also great idea. You can search and contact a tutor in your area at www.thetutorpages.com/tutor-search
Henry Fagg is the founder of Thetutorpages.com, a home tuition advice and information portal which includes a national directory of tutors.
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STARTI N G SCH OOL
Talk with your child about starting school, find out what they are looking forward to and revisit these conversations often
Look at the school’s brochure, prospectus or website, focus on the visual images of the school and talking about this together
Find photos of you and other family members at school, and chat about happy memories from your own school days
Try to attend the transition events organised by the school and/or pre-school, such as, class visits and story time. They are often arranged during the time children are in pre-school, but parents may be expected to take their children to visit their new class; this is an important step and could make the difference on that first day
Read books together about starting school
Sue Smith, Cambridgeshire Facilitator for the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY) and project Co-ordinator for Starting School Together, provides some advice for parents to help children settle at school Next month parents across the UK will find out which primary school their child has been accepted into. Starting school is an exciting time for young children and parents, but can also be daunting. A recent PACEY survey showed 71 per cent of parents were anxious about their child starting school. Being school ready isn’t about a child reading, writing or doing maths, but more about the social and wellbeing aspects. These final few months are important for you and your child to prepare for transition whilst having fun; empower your child to start to feel confident about the exciting times ahead, whether this is enjoying some of the simple activities below or working with your pre-school setting or childminder:
Practise the school morning routine and school run, including getting dressed and eating breakfast in time to leave. Have fun completing PACEY’s ‘getting dressed for school’ activity together – it will help your child anticipate the daily routine ahead!
If you have childcare before or after school, talk this through with your child and your childcare provider. Ensure your childminder is aware of new arrangements from September and if need be suggest a settling in period before the new term
Put together a weekly wallchart to help your child with the new routines, include everyday tasks to encourage independence, i.e. lay the table or feed a pet and encourage independent toilet routines. Many children settle into school life easily, while others take longer. PACEY has a raft of information available to help you prepare your child for starting school including activities, factsheets and guides. Visit www.pacey.org.uk/schoolready
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Hinchingbrooke is a remarkable state school, set in acres of beautiful grounds and adjoining a country park.
Inspired Learning
Hinchingbrooke House was formerly the family home of the Cromwells and of the Earls of Sandwich. the school finds inspiration from its heritage and gives both staff and students a very special pride and a sense of identity. Our mission is to inspire excellence and fulfil potential.
Whole School
We aim for all students to be nurtured as uniquely talented individuals, finding fulfilment
Open Day
through their learning and the development of their intellectual, creative, physical and emotional capabilities. We aim for our students to develop the moral integrity to become more responsible global citizens, so that they may take their place in society with confidence. We are confident that anyone associated with the Hinchingbrooke learning community, student or adult, will leave the richer for their experience.
9.30am - 12noon
Friday 6 May
From Nursery to Sixth Form (3-18 years), outstanding success is achieved through a broad and challenging curriculum. In a happy, friendly environment, girls visibly grow in confidence and ability, emerging as fully rounded, educated young women.
Come and see for yourself.
Give us a call
01604 765765
www.northamptonhigh.gdst.net
Brampton Road, Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE29 3BN T: 01480 375700 | F: 01480 420536 E: communications@hinchbk.cambs.sch.uk www.hinchingbrookeschool.net
LEARNING AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY
The Helena Romanes School and Sixth Form Centre
Open Morning Saturday 1st October 2016 9.30-1.00pm This event is a prime opportunity for you and your family to have full access to our school. You can meet us and get to know our best ambassadors – our students. Children will enjoy interactive experiences and hands-on activities across all subjects. Ultimately the day is about enjoying learning and learning is at the heart of our community. For further information or a prospectus please contact Bev Louth Admissions Secretary. Tel: 01371 872560, blouth@hrs.education
THE HELENA ROMANES SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM CENTRE. PARSONAGE DOWNS.GREAT DUNMOW.CM6 2AU
www.helena-romanes.essex.sch.uk
HADLEIGH KITCHEN & BEDROOM STUDIO 86-88 High Street, Hadleigh IP7 5EF
Tel: 01473 827666
www.hadleighkitchens.co.uk
SIMPLE HAS NEVER LOOKED SO STYLISH PERSONAL SERVICE – QUALITY PRODUCTS – ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Richard Allington Kitchens FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES & SURVEYS
We now offer a supply only made to measure service at superstore prices Tel: 01953 459817 Mob: 07754 630453 | 14 Connaught Road, Attleborough
HAI WITH OUR T Y T S A T K O O C LEARN TO D ENJOY A N A S F E H C D E T TALEN IENCE... R E P X E G IN R E T MOUTH-WA
ASK INSTORE FOR MORE DETAILS £40 PER PERSON
UN.CO.UK CAMBRIDGE@THAIKH
01223 941510
Let's Get Social...
MUST BOOK IN ADVANCE
"Where Quality & Freshness Counts" Here at Calcott Hall we grow a variety of different crops to bring you as much home grown produce as we are able to grow. We're a small family run business, passionate about fresh, local produce and quality products and we want you to share our passion too! NS Risdon, a top quality traditional butcher is located in store. With full traceability his meat is superb. We also now have a cheese counter serving a wide range of British and continental cheeses. Something for every taste and occasion!
VISITING FISH VAN ON FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS Monday : Closed Tuesday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Wednesday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Thursday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Friday (Late Night) : 8.30am – 6.30pm Saturday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Sunday : 10am – 2pm
www.calcotthall.com Calcott Hall Farm Shop, Ongar Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9HS
Tel: 01277 264164
FOOD & DRINK
FOOD & DRINKReview Thaikhun Cookery School, Cambridge Don’t be fooled in thinking you have to travel half way across the world for an authentic Thai cooking experience, the opportunity is right here on your doorstep in Cambridge. Having opened on the Quayside last summer, Thaikhun has been adding a little colour and flavour to Cambridge’s food scene with its Bangkok style street food. Visitors can tuck into a great selection of dishes such as Pad Thai, Thai Green Curry, stir-frys and regional specials. However, it’s not just excellent Thai food on the menu, the restaurant also hosts a regular Thai Cookery School, where you can have a hands-on experience mastering some of the restaurants most popular dishes. So off I went, eager to become a masterfully skilled Thai chef. On arrival I was greeted by restaurant manager Rocci, who welcomed me with a delicious coconut mojito. Sipping on the delicious tropical flavours and looking around at the vibrant authentic décor, it’s quite easy to feel as though you’re in Thailand – unfortunately, the grey blustery skies outside the window bought me back to reality! I was led to the cookery school set up in the spacious room at the back of the restaurant. Two stations were prepped, one for me and one for my teacher, Chef Tong. I would be making chicken spring rolls to start, and Pad Thai for main – the restaurants most popular dish. Chef Tong demonstrated the steps, chopping at speed and skillfully flipping his ingredients, while explaining every stage in full detail. It was my turn, and I’ll be honest I don’t have a great track record when it comes to cooking. I’m hazardous with a knife and my definition of cooking is burnt, but I gave it my best shot and both Chef and Rocci gave me helpful advice and tips along the way. Ingredients cooked, it was onto rolling the spring roll – I don’t like to brag, but I think mine were just as good as the chefs (kind of) – who knew I had a natural talent for making spring rolls? Once I had sat down and sampled my starter it was onto mains. Again, I watched Chef Tong, while nibbling on the ingredients, before returning to
my own station to whip up my noodle dish. I was surprised how quick Pad Thai cooks, and I’ll definitely be making it at home. Despite their best efforts, Rocci and Chef Tong wasn’t able to improve on my pan flipping skills, but I did come away with an even bigger love for Thai food, enthusiasm for cooking and enough leftovers for dinner, much to my husband’s delight! The cookery school regularly changes the dishes available to cook and usually has a group of attendees. Food cooked is consumed together in the restaurant where you can share tips and learn more about Thai cooking. Thaikhun Cookery School is only available at selected restaurants, and we’re lucky enough to have it here in Cambridge so if you love cooking, Thai food or just want a fun experience, book now! www.thaikhun.co.uk
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Award winning food | Locally sourced ingredients Weekday 2 course lunch menu - £14.95 Warm friendly atmosphere Bury Lane, Sutton Gault | Tel: 01353 778537 www.anchorsuttongault.co.uk
• Master Butchers. • Locally Sourced Beef, Pork, Lamb, Poultry And Game In Season And Our Own Recipe Sausages Made On The Premises • Traditional, Locally Sourced Meats. 28 Wingfield Street, Bungay, Suffolk, NR35 1EZ Tel/Fax: 01986 895 105
03 March East Life Afternoon Tea QP 2016_107mm h x 71mm w 04/03/2016 12:05 Page 1
Afternoon Tea... ...at Ufford Park Woodbridge Spoil yourself with a delicious Afternoon Tea overlooking our large terrace and beautifully landscaped golf course.
Sugar Design offers sugar craft courses at all levels from beginners to advanced.
Served daily between 2pm and 5pm.
We specialize in the creation of sugar flowers but hold courses in all aspects of cake decorating, including the basics, cupcakes and royal icing.
For a little extra, why not indulge yourself in a glass of Prosecco for only £3.95 per person.
For a list of current and planned courses have a look at www.sugardesign.co.uk/courses
Only £15.95 per person Booking is essential for larger groups.
t 0844 477 1835
(local rate)
w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW
Tel: 01353 776085 Mob: 07932 070706 Email: info@sugardesign.co.uk
THE
CAMBRIDGEFOODIE Gerla de Boer, founder of the Cambridge Food Tour, shares her wisdom of the city’s cuisine…
THE BEST COCKTAIL BARS IN CAMBRIDGE It is not difficult to stumble across a place in Cambridge, which serves cocktails. Finding a cocktail bar, which serves great cocktails is much harder though! Making good cocktails is not just about mixing, but about the quality and quantity of the ingredients. Watching a mixologist at work is fun and you’ll be surprised how much work goes into such a small drink! My perfect evening out definitely starts at one of these places! So which bars have the best cocktails in town? Novi Cambridge This hip and trendy venue opened its doors last year. Café by day time, pop up’s in the evening and a funky cocktail bar on the top floor. The only botanical cocktails in town! 196 Bar This understated bar at the bottom end of the City is the talk of town! Easy to miss as it only has a number, but big crowds in the evening give the secret away. The best martini gin cocktails in town! The High Tea Club Don’t be mislead by the name. Although they have a very interesting selection of Chinese tea, it’s actually all about cocktails and dim sums! Try one of its smokey cocktails, it’s fun and very nice! 12A Private club This swanky cocktail bar above Don Pasquale is by invitation only. Don’t want to wait for that? Become a member and you’ll have access to the finest bar in town. Try one of its ice ball cocktails!
Keen to put your hands to making cocktails yourself? Check out the blog of cocktail blogger Aoife Maxwell www.gastronomicgirls.com Read more from Gerla at www.cambridgefoodtour.com
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FOOD & DRINK FE WE LIST THE BEST FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVALS TAKING PLACE THIS SUMMER
2 MAY, WORLD STILTON CHEESE-ROLLING CHAMPIONSHIPS, STILTON, CAMBS Join the hundreds of villagers who come out to support this fun annual event. The starting point is always outside The Bell Inn and The Angel and the finish is a line drawn at the cross roads between the bottom of Fen Street and Church Street. As well as the main cheese-rolling event, there are plenty of things to see, do and taste. You can browse the food stalls and sample their locally made delights, peruse the many stands selling crafts and gifts, and try your luck at some traditional fairground games. www.stilton.org/cheese-rolling
7-22 MAY, EAT CAMBRIDGE Eat Cambridge is an annual festival of food and drink with the aim of showing off fabulous local independent producers to local food fans throughout the county of Cambridgeshire. The festival features a fortnight of fantastic local food and drink, a jam-packed two week schedule of tasty fringe events and a huge food and drink fair at the Corn Exchange in the historic city of Cambridge. As well as a food and drink fair, expect pop-up restaurants, secret supper clubs, food night markets, cookery lessons and more. www.eat-cambridge.co.uk
28-29 MAY HERTFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW, THE SHOWGROUND, REDBOURN, HERTS The popular show returns, showcasing the very best in farming and local produce. The Food Hall will be offering a variety of some of the regions finest food and suppliers. Focus on Food Tourism will have a 12 place marquee for artisan food producers at the show. www.hertsshow.com
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21-22 MAY, CRAB & LOBSTER FESTIVAL, CROMER AND SHERINGAHM A feast of fun, food, arts, music and heritage over a packed two days of events in two great seaside towns, Cromer and Sheringham. A weekend celebration featuring cookery theatre, tasters, demonstrations and local produce stalls, there’s something for everyone. Each town adds its own special friendly character to the event with performers, fishermen, shantymen, clowns, boats, musicians and more. Saturday and Sunday in Cromer and a full Sunday in Sheringham. www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk
28 MAY, BECCLES FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL, BECCLES, SUFFOLK Beccles Food and Drink Festival will have up to 100 stalls set up around the town showcasing the wide variety of food and drink produced in Suffolk and Norfolk. The event will take the form of a grazing trail; with a trail map to guide visitors around the town, taking in all of the producers en route. Visitors will have an opportunity to sample and purchase direct from the producers on the day and watch food demonstrations. There will be activities for children of all ages too. www.becclesbusinessassociation.co.uk
26 MAY – 5 JUNE, NORWICH CITY OF ALE A 10-day celebration of local pubs, breweries and real ale taking place throughout the city. Special beers and ales, pub quizzes and barbecues are all on the line-up. www.cityofale.org.uk
1-2 JUNE, THE SUFFOLK SHOW, TRINITY PARK Once again visitors can expect thrilling grand ring displays, amazing animals, spectacular show jumping, shopping and the finest local food and drink, which all make up a day to remember at the Suffolk Show. www.suffolkshow.co.uk
FESTIVALS 25-26 JUNE, FOCUS ON FOOD TOURISM, WOBURN, BEDS East Anglia’s food scene is about to get a boost as a new food tourism event launches at the Woburn Garden Show. Organised by regional food group, Tastes of Anglia and Paule Rochelle Sales & Marketing, the Focus on Food Tourism event aims to promote the East of England as a ma jor food tourism destination, enticing those from the UK and beyond to the region. Set in the beautiful grounds of Woburn Abbey and sited next to the very successful Woburn Garden Show, Focus on Food Tourism will feature food marquees exhibiting the best regional food and drink producers, a tourism marquee featuring some of the region’s best hospitality providers and a food theatre where a range of educative presentations will be staged. www.focusonfoodtourism.co.uk
16 JULY, OUNDLE FOOD FESTIVAL, MARKET PLACE, OUNDLE Over 70 stalls will be setting up in the historic town of Oundle to sell a vast selection of gourmet and artisan food and drink products. The producers at the festival are almost exclusively local, bringing the best goods the region has to offer, and giving visitors a chance to learn exactly where the food they eat every day is coming from. Throughout the day there will be cookery workshops and cooking demos. www.oundlefestival.org.uk
16-17 JULY, ESSEX FESTIVAL OF FOOD AND DRINK, CRESSING TEMPLE BARNS, BRAINTREE The festival returns with over 150 food and drink producer and has three cookery demonstration stages hosting celebrity and local chefs. This year Tom Kerridge will take to the stage on Saturday 16 July and James Martin is back on Sunday 17 July. The Only Way is Local marquee will be back packed full with Essex producers and sponsored by the Chelmsford Star Co-op. www.tastesofanglia.org. uk/essex-festival-of-food--drink-2016
Eat Cambridge
23-24 JULY, JIMMY’S HARVEST FESTIVAL OF SAUSAGES AND BEER 2016, JIMMY’S FARM, WHERSTEAD, IPSWICH The festival is back bigger than ever. Dance along as bands play on the main stage, sample some of the finest sausage producers, craft beer brewers and lots of other interesting hot and cold food stalls, and watch well-known chefs cooking up some delicious dishes at the Cook Shack. www.jimmysfestival.co.uk
28-29 AUGUST, BURY ST EDMUNDS FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL The popular event returns showcasing the very best of local produce and some great cookery demonstrations. More details are to be announced soon. www.burystedmundsfestivals.com
24-25 SEPT, ALDEBURGH FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL, SNAPE MALTINGS A two day celebration of Suffolk’s food scene. There will be over 90 food and drink stalls, hands-on cooking workshops and free children’s activities. www.aldeburghfoodanddrink.co.uk
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THE CLEAN EATING CORNER
EATING Written by
Hedi Hearts
Welcome to Eastlife’s latest column! Each month Hedi Pavelcova, owner of He.Lo Health, will bringing her passion for clean eating, healthy food and nutrition to our pages! This month she gently eases us into a new healthy diet and lifestyle… It seems you can’t open a newspaper or turn on the TV without being told about some new way to eat. Points? Syns? Counting calories? Which way should you turn if you want to get healthy and drop a few pounds in the process? You may have heard the current buzz phrase of ‘Clean Eating’, it sounds interesting but what exactly does it mean? Is it easy to follow and will it be good for me? Clean eating is not another fad or a quick fix to losing weight. Clean eating is a way of life, not a diet with an expiration date. It helps you get healthy from the inside out, you can lose weight safely in the knowledge that you are feeding and fuelling your body correctly. In a nut shell, clean eating is about not eating foods that are processed and pumped full of unnecessary additives. The concept of clean eating is simple: to eat and enjoy food in their most natural state. This means avoiding anything that is processed, refined or handled. This is not a brand new concept either - through clean eating, you will be joining the thousands of others who experience weight loss as well as looking and feeling better for making the change. Here’s a quick check list of what is generally considered clean eating; • No refined sugar • No chemicals added • Keeping food as close to its natural state as possible • Never ‘low fat’ or ‘fat free’ • Whole grains i.e. wholegrain bread, pasta and rice The idea is to go back a couple of generations, before the trend of frozen ready meals and convenience or fast foods were all the rage. We are talking about cooking your meals from scratch, using whole and nutritious ingredients. The meals do not need to be overly extravagant or use really expensive and hard to find ingredients, there is no limit to the delicious food you can create with a little imagination and some education as to what foods are healthy. Clean eating is a really beautiful way to eat; you’ll know exactly what goes into your food, you will be able to keep a track of your and your family’s health and wellbeing. For more from Hedi visit hedihearts.com
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT The Peacock Programme is a unique all round approach which puts YOU back in the driving seat. There are so many situations and events in life which can knock us off course. Learn to ‘Thrive with Jac’ and you can get back on track and learn the life skills you need to enjoy the journey. Give me just six weeks and I can teach you how to take back control and create the life you need to be happy, confident and relaxed. The foundation of The Peacock Programme is the psychological training programme called The Thrive Programme by Dr. Rob Kelly. It is easy to understand, written in simple language, proven and empowering. I combine this powerful training with the bonus of nutritional education to optimise your mind and body.
ARE YOU FED UP OF BEING FED UP? STRESS AND ANXIETY TAKING THE SHINE OFF LIFE? DO YOU CHEW THINGS OVER AND OVER? Jacqueline Monroe shares with us how managing your thinking can have a huge impact on your appetite for life. “I can teach you the life skills to overcome any symptom which is limiting your happiness, health and enjoyment of life.” Do any of these sound like you? • • • • • • • • • • • •
Stress and Anxiety Phobias and Fears Insomnia PTSD and Trauma Social Anxiety and Nerves Emetophobia (fear of being sick) Low Self-esteem Self Confidence Performance Anxiety Depression Lack of Self-worth Self-harming
• Negative Body Image. • Weight and Food issues • Out of control? • Can’t see a future? • Worrying and Obsessing • Over-thinking • Relationship Problems • Too much mind chatter • Self-doubt and negative thinking • Not achieving your goals
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I offer a Free ‘life MOT’ session, I would be delighted to explain to you how The Peacock Programme can help you.
ON YER BIKE! Michelle Kime, personal trainer and fitness instructor, tells us why we should be pushing the pedals this spring… East Anglia has some of the best cycle routes and trails for all ages and abilities, and as cycling is a fantastic form of exercise enjoyed by a wide range of individuals, it truly is the perfect way to see and explore our beautiful region. Benefits Regular cycling can help you lose weight, reduce body fat percentage levels, reduce stress and improve your overall fitness levels. The risk of chronic illnesses such as heart attack, type 2 diabetes and stroke can also be reduced by getting out on your bike and as it’s one of the best low impact forms of exercise it’s kinder on your joints as well. Cycling is one of the easiest ways to fit exercise into your daily routine as it’s a form of transport and it’s great for the environment too! Top tips Before you start 1. Get an old bike serviced 2. Get fitted for your bike to ensure correct frame size and saddle height 3. Many workplaces offer cycle to work schemes – find out if yours does 4. Always check tyre pressure - a correctly inflated tyre will reduce the risk of a puncture Safety 1. Wear light coloured or reflective clothing 2. Always ride with lights in dusk and dark conditions 3. Always wear a correctly fitted cycle helmet 4. Consider cycle training to build confidence
3. Make cycling a habit – cycle to work 4. Keep challenging yourself – enter a cycling event. Join team Adrenalize – www.bhf.org.uk/get-in volved/events/bike-rides/norwich-bike-ride Recommended routes Norfolk Marriotts way – www.marriottsway.info Norfolk coast cycleway – www.norfolkcoastaonb.org.uk Suffolk - Alton water - www.discoversuffolk.org.uk Lowestoft coastrunner - www.cycle-route.com Cambs Huntingdon and St Ives routes www.lovetoride.net Essex www.cycle-route.com/routes/Essex-Routes-76.html So what are you waiting for – get on yer bike!
On your bike 1. Keep hydrated 2. Follow highway code – don’t jump red lights or cycle on pavements
Michelle is a Norwich based personal trainer. For more details about Michelle and her work visit www.adrenalize.co.uk
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www.all-hallows.org.uk
LOOK 10 YEARS YOUNGER
WITHOUT SURGERY AT RADIANT BEAUTY Supported Breaks in the Waveney Valley
For adults with physical disabilities or special needs and their companions to have a holiday or short break
All Hallows is situated in the village of Ditchingham on the Norfolk and Suffolk border near the beautiful River Waveney. The area has some of the county's most scenic and peaceful countryside an ideal place to come for a break. The building is fully wheelchair accessible and has specialist disabled features with caring and dedicated staff. No matter what level of support you need you can be confident that All Hallows will be able to help. For further details about our facilities, things to do and our care packages please contact the team on
t: 01986 892728 e: info@all-hallows.org.uk
Radiant Beauty is a well established medical aesthetic clinic offering the most clinically effective skin rejuvenation treatments at affordable prices with a new office at 9 Clements Road, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1SZ and satellite clinics in Newmarket and Bury St Edmunds. Improve skin tone with a chemical peel chosen for your skin type. Erase age lines and wrinkles with state of the art injectable treatments. Sun damaged skin, age spots and facial thread veins can also be treated and unwanted hair permanently removed. All treatments are provided by a highly qualified nurse practitioner in a lovely discrete setting in the heart of Woodbridge. Phone for a free consultation with Dr. Kathleen Walker on 01394 386887 or email kathy@drkathywalker.com
Treatments offered at Radiant Beautiful Medical in Woodbridge 9 Clements Road, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1SZ t: 01394 386877 e: kathy@drkathywalker.com www.drkathywalker.com
Photography: Anna Abel
BOUTIQUE CHOLPON
My name is Cholpon, and I am a really enthusiastic fashion designer from Milton Keynes. Boutique Cholpon has a phenomenal range of day and evening wear. My passion lies with clothing that makes a woman feel elegant and beautiful. We really want every woman to have an amazing shopping experience with us. At the boutique you can find dresses and jackets that have been uniquely designed. We also offer a "made to order" service so if you have a wedding, prom or a special event, we can create the dress of your dreams with no hassle at all. We also offer a range of exclusive jewellery and sunglasses. Many of which have been hand made and tailored to a unique style. This is nothing like your ordinary high street store.
boutiquecholpon
Boutique Cholpon
+44 7446 865532 | Tickford Arcade, Newport Pagnell
STYLE
FASHION
Parisian Written by Ruth Essex, Image Consultant, mycolourcoach.co.uk
Spring reminds me of Paris and a neighbour called Sophie. Every Easter, her father took her to Paris to see the fashions and to choose five new items for her spring wardrobe. Sophie was my first style crush and even as a young girl I thought how chic and sophisticated she looked. Sophie didn’t have a massive wardrobe and it included quite basic items, but they were classics and hence she could rotate them for many years without looking dated. She had a capsule wardrobe before I even knew what a capsule wardrobe was, let alone a Parisian one. She was quite curvy, not particularly tall or especially pretty but she knew what suited her and so her confidence always shone through and this is what made her so beautiful in my eyes. So what is a Euro chic wardrobe? Well a beige trench or coat adds versatility, or you might choose another neutral like navy, grey or black which would work too. Other essential items are a tailored dark jacket such as navy blazer, that can be dressed up or down and a nice leather handbag. There were the ubiquitous striped t-shirts, white cotton shirts, pearls, navy jeans, white linen skirts and trousers for the warmer months. These items may change in terms of width of leg or collar but essentially the same items still work today, as they did several decades ago.
Images: La Redoute - R Essentiel trench coat £59 Navy blazer - Whowhatwhere.co.uk
Most of Sophie’s clothes were quite simple in design and her principle was quality over quantity. The accessories were where she showed her flair; a vintage handbag from a Paris flea market or a silk scarf and coloured leather gloves for individuality. Minimalist is not for everyone but if you admire the classics and yearn for a certain ‘Je ne sais quoi’, why not give it a go?
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Essex Best Days Vintage based in Colchester have picked the very best fashion items from across the world for both men and women. Items are even customised and tailored to make them a unique vintage purchase, transformed for everyday wear. Items can also be purchased through their marketplace on ASOS. www.bestdaysvintage.co.uk The Curiosity Fair in Saffron Walden has events throughout the year showcasing the very best of vintage clothing and homewares, crafts, jewellery and antiques. A great fair for the whole family, there’s also tea and cake as well as face-painting. Something to keep everyone occupied while you shop for the perfect outfit. The next fair takes place 30 April. www.thecuriosityfair.co.uk
Hertfordshire Stopping by St Albans to do some shopping? Make sure to pop into The Fleetville Vintage Emporium A vintage lover’s dream, this shop is packed with fashion from across the decades, as well as a good selection of homewares and more. Get some extra energy for trying on all the clothes with a visit to their coffee shop for a cup of tea and a slice of cake, all served in vintage china. You can find The Fleetville Vintage Emporium at 221 Hatfield Road, St Albans. www.fleetvillevintage.co.uk. Barkway Antiques and vintage fair is held regularly in the picturesque village of Barkway in Hertfordshire monthly. Visit www.flapperfortunes.co.uk to find out when the next fairs are running. The fair takes over the small village hall with over 20 stalls and a small tearoom. Discover hidden fashion gems amongst other treasures for the home and garden.
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Suffolk Vintage Angels specialises in vintage and designer clothes for men and women. With stock that spans the years from Victorian and Edwardian through to the 90s, there’s something for every era of clothing. www.vintageangelsclothing.co.uk Visit the Clare Antiques Fair to pick up some vintage fashion bargains. Held regularly at Clare in the heart of Suffolk, find a variety of stalls offering a treasure trove of vintage styles. www.clarefair.co.uk
Cambridgeshire Jemporium Vintage on Burleigh Street in Cambridge stocks everything from Levi’s denim jackets and sweatshirts through to corduroy shirts, suede and silk bomber jackets and cropped t-shirts among many, many other things. With a focus on truly wearable items from the 50s through to the 90s the shop sources affordable fashion items. www.jemporiumvintage.co.uk On 7 May the Cambridge Affordable Vintage Fair arrives at The Cambridge Guildhall with 50 traders selling everything from women’s fashion to men’s suiting, watches to jewellery and everything in between. A treasure trove of vintage fashion, this is a must for any fashionista. In addition, a fabulous Vintage Tea Party will be setting-up shop, serving tea in china and cakes by the slice. www.judysvintagefair.co.uk/city/cambridge
VINTAGE
FASHION
A FINE
Written by Amanda French, PR and blogger at www.anoseforfood.com
Whether it’s a flapper dress from the 20s, a shell suit from the 80s or a 50s handbag which you are hunting for to complete your wardrobe, we’ve rounded up the best shops and fairs across the East of England to help with your hunt. Don’t forget to check out your nearest charity shop too, which are often packed full of vintage fashion bargains for great prices.
Bedfordshire Lawson & Lee is a vintage and retro shop based in Ampthill. With a huge range of vintage hats, jewellery, handbags and clothing, you’ll certainly find a hidden gem here. www.lawsonandlee.co.uk This summer, Clapham, near Bedford, is taken over by a huge vintage festival, Twinwood which not only showcases vintage music with over 60 live acts, but also celebrates classic vehicles and has over 100 vintage stalls and traders, leading to possibly one of the best vintage fashion fairs in the country. So much choice! www.twinwoodevents.com
Norfolk Based in Holt, Past Caring is a shop and online boutique packed with everything from the early 1800s through to the 1960s. Searching for a Victorian cape or a 1950s cocktail dress? This place has everything. A real Aladdin’s cave for fashionistas. www.pastcaring.net The Little Vintage Lover Fair is a pop-up fair focusing on vintage fashion and homewares and travels to venues around Norfolk throughout the year. The next fair is scheduled for Sunday 8 May at Mannington Hall. www.littlevintageloverfair.co.uk
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eve st clair of Long Melford SPRING SUMMER COLLECTIONS NOW IN Knitwear by Marble Tina Taylor Occasionwear, Flower print dresses and skirts from Pomodoro Trousers from Robell and Gardeur Jackets from Lebek and many more.
The Old Pharmacy, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk CO10 9JQ Opening hours: Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm 01787 312182 - info@evestclair.com
SPECIAL OCCASION WEAR Prom Dresses | Mother of the Bride Bridesmaid Dresses | Fuller Figures Evening Wear | Cruise Wear
01480 461187 WWW.CREAM-ROSE.CO.UK 7 HIGH STREET, FENSTANTON, CAMBS PE28 9LQ OPEN Tuesday 11:00am to 4:00pm, Wednesday to Friday 10:00am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Sunday by Appointment.
#Trending
Bomber Jackets The cool classic is back! The bomber jacket is a great transitional piece for spring and has become the must-have item of the season. Whether you choose to throw a silky bomber over a plain t-shirt, jeans and heels for a night out or wear it at the weekend teamed with trainers, this is one 90s trend that’s here to stay. Price: Bomber £24.99, Shorts £17.99, both from New Look
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GURU THE WEDDING
Written by Katrina Otter
How to Weather Proof your wedding
If you’re getting married in the UK, then no matter what time of year you get married, the weather WILL affect your wedding! Whether it’s too hot, too cold, too wet or too windy, the reality is that the ‘perfect wedding weather’ rarely exists. So with this in mind, I thought it would be useful to share some of my top tips on how to weather-proof your wedding. Firstly, let’s talk about the most dreaded weather scenario – rain: •If you’re planning on being outside for all or part of your wedding then you need to have a plan B or even C! Talk to your venue and suppliers in advance and draw up a wet-weather contingency plan including alternative settings, indoor spaces and parking scenarios and then allow extra time in your schedule to accommodate any change in plans •Think ahead and order plenty of umbrellas for you, your wedding party and even your guests. If you don’t want to buy these then you can hire them relatively last-minute from companies such as Brolly Bucket (www.brollybucket.co.uk) and whilst you’re at it remember to buy/hire some buckets as well
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•Bring a pair of back-up shoes or even a pair of wellies to ensure you don’t ruin your wedding shoes •Provide your Ushers with large umbrellas and ask them to escort any guests who may have forgotten to bring one! • Embrace the weather, relax and go with it – wet weather won’t ruin your wedding day unless you let it!
Secondly, cold weather (a scenario I faced myself at my own wedding): •As with wet weather, for cold weather you may also need to draw up a contingency plan with the help of your venue and suppliers •Embrace the cold and keep it cosy by bringing extra layers and providing your guests with a supply of blankets and throws •Think about serving a more wholesome menu and warm refreshments •Have some extra heaters and/or fire pits on standby to help keep guests warm
WEDDINGS Finally, all too often couples plan for the worst rather than considering what would happen if it was a little too hot! So with this in mind, you might also want to keep the following in mind if you’re planning for a ‘warm’ wedding: •Supply extra refreshments for your guests, including plenty of non-alcoholic beverages •Provide small bottles of sun-cream for your wedding party and guests •Add some extra shade, such as gazebos or parasols with seating for guests • Think about your wedding cake and talk to your cake maker about storage, chilling and where/when to display it •Serve a lighter wedding breakfast as heavier options may go untouched •Stock up on extra ice • Talk to your venue or marquee company about how to create a breeze and if in doubt hire some fans
Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based wedding planner and event organiser. She is also a member of the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners (UKAWP), an organisation that was founded with one purpose – to promote professionalism in wedding planning. www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk
Your wedding day WILL still be perfect even it if it’s blistering hot, unusually cold or too wet and windy if you take the time to talk to your suppliers, consider the different scenarios, draw up a contingency plan and embrace whatever mother nature throws at you!
Image credit: Rebecca Goddard Photography
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Weddings at The Carlton Manor
For weddings Carlton Manor is a stunning backdrop to your perfect day. With beautiful landscaped gardens the grand building is truly one of the most romantic settings for a marriage ceremony, civil partnership or wedding reception in the county. Not only does it make a picturesque setting, we have new menus and packages including lots of delicious local produce. As well as the New Menu packages we also have New Buffets, Hog Roasts, Canapes, Drinks, Champagne Cocktails and Drinks Packages which our dedicated wedding planner can use to truly bespoke your special day.
T 01502 560567 | Chapel Road | Carlton Colville | NR33 8BL | www.carltonmanorhotel.com | weddingplanner@carltonmanorhotel.com
LOVE & ROMANCE
All images courtesy of www.NeilBaxterPhotography.com
We speak to couple Kennie and Kerry Cole about their big day at at Paddocks House, Newmarket... After meeting on a blind date three years ago, 11 months later, on New Year’s Eve, Kennie got down on one knee and proposed complete with all the romantic trimmings including candles and Champagne. The best surprise for Kerry was her family waiting in the wings to help them celebrate, once she’d said yes…of course. Kerry and Kennie were married in The Study at Paddocks House on 13 September 2015, a dream come true for Kerry, as this had always been her dream wedding venue. Sixty guests joined them as they took their vows, followed by their wedding breakfast in the stunning Garden Room. A further 40 of their friends and family arrived for their evening reception. Kerry wore a beautiful dress from the Mori Lee collection, her make-up was by Dani Roberts Make-Up Artist and beautiful bridal hair by Willow Hair in Newmarket. Tolly’s Flowers of Newmarket created the perfect wedding flowers, elegant and stylish to complement Kerry’s theme, décor and add the finishing touch. The day was captured perfectly by Neil Baxter Photography.
THE MENU To start Smoked salmon cannelloni, garden beets and smoked horseradish cream herb salad Followed by Slow cooked belly of pork, pomme Anna, heritage baby carrots and turnips, roast apple puree and jus To Finish Eton mess The weather was very kind and meant Pimms and lemonade were served on the Terrace with Chef’s canapés, along with games on the lawn for both the big kids and little kids, before moving to the Garden Room for the three-course wedding breakfast. After the fantastic speeches were done, and the cake was cut, it was time for the celebrations to begin. The dance floor was ready for that all important first dance before the guests started showing off their dance moves. Flip flops were there for those tired dancing feet and sparklers out on the Terrace added a magic touch, all this was served up with delicious hot bacon and sausage butties; a truly magical day for a truly magical couple! www.paddockshouse.com
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The Perfect Venue Wedding or private venue party
At Back to the Garden, a magnificent vaulted 18th century threshing barn your guests can enjoy a true taste of local quality - from a simple buffet to a formal 4-course meal. Back to the Garden offers everything that a successful wedding day should have. Tel: 01263 715996 christopher@back-to-the-garden.co.uk www.back-to-the-garden.co.uk
Fakenham Road, Lethingsett, Nr Holt, NR25 7JJ
Tony Lumb Wedding Photography
PETER’S BRIDAL WAREHOUSE WEDDING DRESS FACTORY OUTLET
STUNNING DRESSES, SIZE 8 TO 36 IN STOCK FOR YOU TO TRY ON TODAY Priced from £299 to £899 We make you feel very special Contact me for a free consultation to discuss your unique wedding plans
+44(0)7970865937 www.tonylumbweddingphotography.com www.tonylumb@hotmail.com
Call 07917757862 www.petersbridalwarehouse.com Unit 21 Northfield Business Park, Soham, CB7 5UE Just off A142 Soham By Pass, (Behind Scampers Pet Store)
Facebook.. Peter Bridal Warehouse
Each show is uniquely designed for your special occasion, to give your guests a spectacular sensory experience they will not forget. Or... you could visit our showroom with over 150 fireworks to choose from for your own DIY display.
Tel 01945 463857
info@fireworksdisplayteam.co.uk
www.fireworksdisplayteam.co.uk
P2170 FELIX _ADVERT_107x148.indd 1
21/01/2016 14:59
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MOTORING
THE Subaru Levorg
Written by Sue Cooke @cookecars
Subaru brings some great cars to the UK. Last year one of the most searched for and sold estates across the Motors.co.uk network was the Outback and one of the most searched for saloons was the Impreza. New to the UK market and a model which should definitely be added to the most searched for, is the Subaru Levorg. I absolutely love this sport tourer. The Subaru branding and raised power air intake across the front bonnet gives it road presence and as you would expect from a Subaru, it has turbo boost powers of acceleration. While our weather in East Anglia is changeable at this time of year, the Levorg’s all-wheel drive capability is a reassuring antidote to any wet weather. Back in 2012 when its predecessor, the fourth generation Legacy Tourer was launched, it was innovatively dubbed ‘Subaglue’ referring to the company’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system which allowed its owners to ‘go anywhere’ reassuringly ‘glued’ to the tarmac. The five door, five seater estate is also the perfect car for touring. I found it extremely comfortable on a day out around Huntingdon and while the exterior is compact, the interior has greater leg, head and shoulder room than its forebear. The cabin is practical with lots of storage spaces and luggage space in the boot is 522 litres, rising to 1,446 litres with the second row of seats folded down by just pushing a button.
Model: Subaru Levorg GT Price: £27,495otr Engine: 1.6 litre DIT Boxer Performance: 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 130mph CO2 emissions: 164g/km Combined fuel consumption: 40mpg What I found most useful is the standard Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection system which includes blind spot detection which alerts drivers to cars sitting in their blind spot; Lane Change Assist, which warns drivers of fast-approaching vehicles behind when the driver indicates to change lane; and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which detects vehicles passing behind when reversing out of a parking space. This very quiet petrol engine with stop start facility offers the same performance as Subaru’s existing 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated Boxer engine, despite being 36% smaller and produces 170 PS. Amid the controversy surrounding manufacturer claims on official mpg figures, Subaru has been named one of the top car manufacturers for ‘real world’ fuel efficiency following independent testing by German car magazine Auto Motor. Subaru states that the Levorg, paired with the new Lineartronic (CVT) transmission achieves 40mpg in combined use and CO2 emissions are 164g/km. The Subaru Levorg offers spacious practicality, reassuring all-wheel drive and great acceleration proving it is a true Subaru after all.
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FIREPLACES AND WOODBURNERS FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 35 YEARS
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CONSUMER
Martin Lewis Talks...
HOW TO CLAIM MARRIAGE TAX Are you married or in a civil partnership? If so, is one of you a non-taxpayer, and the other paying basic 20% tax? If you’ve just answered yes, then you’re one of 4.1million couples due a free £212 a year, but the likelihood is you’re in the 80% who haven’t claimed it, so I’m going to tell you how. This is all about marriage tax allowance, a tax-break introduced in April 2015. I was stunned to find out how few people know about it, and I am starting to make a breakthrough. Q. WHO CAN GET IT? You must be married or civil partners. If you’ve lived together for 20 years and have four kids and a dog, you are not eligible. This is a bit of social engineering by the government to have a reward for marriage in the tax system. One of you must be a non-taxpayer, i.e. usually earning less than £10,600, and the other needs to pay tax at the basic 20% rate, which is currently for those who earn under £42,385. You both must be under 80 (then there’s another tax break). Don’t overcomplicate this. Many people ask if they count as a non-taxpayer as “I’m a volunteer”, “I only work part time”, “I don’t work”. Stop it. Are you a UK resident who doesn’t pay income tax? If you are, you count – simple as that. Q. HOW DOES IT WORK? The non-taxpayer can transfer £1,060 of their personal allowance – that’s the amount you can earn tax-free – to their partner. Imagine Tyrone earns £10,000 at a garage, and is a non-taxpayer. He can arrange for £1,060 of his tax-free allowance to be transferred to his wife Fizz. So that’s £1,060 of earnings she would’ve paid tax on at 20% that’s now tax free. As 20% of £1,060 is £212, that’s your gain.
Q. HOW DO YOU CLAIM IT? It’s a really simple process. The non-taxpayer should just go to www.gov.uk/marriage-allowance or call 0300 200 3300. You’ll need your national insurance numbers and some basic ID. Let me stress again though, it’s the NON-TAXPAYER who must sign up – people do it the other way round and then wonder why they’re rejected. Q. DO I GET IT EVERY YEAR? Yes, it’s done via a change in your tax code that remains, so it’s £212 a year gain every year and once you’ve applied it’s done automatically. If your circumstances change, you need to call up and tell them. Q. CAN I BACKDATE THE CLAIM? Yes, you can backdate for four years, but it only started on 6 April 2015 so of course you can’t go back further than that. Q. WHAT IF EITHER OR BOTH OF US ARE SELF-EMPLOYED? It doesn’t matter. As long as you fulfil the eligibility criteria above, you can apply. The only difference is if the recipient partner is in self-assessment, it will reduce their self-assessment bill. Q. WHAT IF I’M A NON-TAXPAYER WHO DOESN’T HAVE £1,060 TO PASS ACROSS? It still works, it’s just a bit more complex if the non-taxpayer is earning just under the £10,600 threshold. This is because you have to transfer £1,060 of your allowance to take advantage – nothing more, nothing less.
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IN THE
SPOTLIGHT: St. Francis’ Children’s Society
What areas do you cover in East Anglia? We operate within a 50-mile radius of each of our offices. This includes Cambridgeshire, parts of Lincolnshire and Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and parts of Hertfordshire.
FACT FILE Name: Vicky Hunt Company: St. Francis’ Children’s Society (SFCS). The charity was established in 1869.
Location: Offices in Peterborough and Milton Keynes. Tell us about St. Francis’ Children’s Society: SFCS is a children’s charity and registered adoption agency. Our main focus is on placing vulnerable children with new families through our Adoption Connections service. SFCS is especially committed to finding families for those children who wait longest in the care system before finding adoptive families – this includes children over the age of four, sibling groups of two or more children, children with disabilities or additional needs, and children from black and minority ethnic backgrounds. In addition, we support birth relatives who have lost children to adoption via our Birth Connections service. Our Building Connections service offers family tracing services and birth records counselling to adopted adults and birth families who are trying to trace their long-lost family members.
What role do you play in the company? I am the Communications Officer at SFCS, and oversee the marketing, publicity and online presence of the organisation. The main function of my role is to recruit adopters. Around 3,000 children are currently awaiting adoption in the UK and we actively encourage couples and individuals from all walks of life to consider if they could become an adoptive parent.
What makes your company special? Our wide range of adoption support services are particularly valued by our adoptive families. From training workshops to family events, we offer an extensive network of support and plenty of opportunities for adoptive children and families to meet others just like them. And if a family is having a particularly hard time, one-to-one support (such as therapy, counselling and Theraplay®) is readily available too.
What is your favourite place to visit in East Anglia? A tiny village called Hinderclay, which is about six miles outside of Diss in Norfolk. I was born and grew up there, and my mum still lives there. There’s no place like home!
What events will you be attending this year? I can’t think of any specific events, but we’ll be spending some time at my mum’s in May, and we’re hoping to do some seaside trips – Lowestoft and Hunstanton are favourites. My six-year-old son is a big fan of Bressingham Steam Museum, so we’re bound to pay a visit there too!
What can Eastlife readers expect from St. Francis’ Children’s Society this year? We’ll hopefully continue to expand across the region, finding increasing numbers of adoptive parents for vulnerable children, and creating more and more new families in the East of England. Anyone who would like to find out more about adopting a child with SFCS should visit www.sfcs.org.uk/adoption-connections
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THINKING OF
A NEW KITCHEN
WHY NOT REFACE RATHER THAN REPLACE?
Replacement doors Replace worn-out, damaged and out-of-fashion cabinet doors with made-to-measure fittings in a fantastic choice of colour, finishes and designs, for base and wall units.
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At Granite Transformations, we offer a complete package for updating your kitchen work surfaces, splashbacks, cabinet doors and appliances. Fitting stunning new worktops is fast and effective, with each top custom-made to your exact specifications. There is no need to remove your old worktops, since we simply fit our beautiful, hardwearing surfaces straight on top, meaning no dust, debris or disruption and ensuring complete peace of mind. To complete the new look, we can also supply and fit made-to-measure replacement cabinet doors and drawer fronts in a wide choice of colours, finishes and styles.
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Mr & Mrs M, Cold Norton. Lifestyle German Kitchen in True Handle-less Polar White Gloss
w w w . t e c - l i f e s t y l e . c o m Wycke Hill Business Park | Wycke Hill | Maldon | Essex CM9 6WH Tel: 01621 878488 | Email: info@tec-lifestyle.com Part of the Tec Supplies Group Limited
Tec-Lifestyle 240 x 168mm Eastlife Advert.indd 1
09/03/2016 11:40
HOME & GARDEN
How to Bring Mid-Century Modern Design Style to Your Home Thanks to the popularity of TV programmes such as Mad Men, mid-century modern design is back with vengeance. With roots dating back to the decades spanning the late 1940s, 50s and 60s, the look is characterised by clean lines, functional comfort and the melding of organic and manmade forms. If you’re looking for an interior design style that evokes effortless retro chic, mid-century modern is the look for you.
Choose the right materials If you want to achieve the mid-century modern look, it’s essential that you get the materials right. Go for high-quality real woods, such as teak, oak, rosewood and walnut – either as part of your furnishings, or as wooden panelling. Similarly, opt for cork, linoleum or laminate floors over fussy carpets, and create a streamlined look with smooth marble table or countertops and gleaming wall tiles.
Colin Bloomfield, senior buyer at Vita Interiors (www.vita-interiors.com), gives his top tips for achieving the mid-century modern look:
Clever colour combos Mid-century modern interior design is all about the artful pairing of neutral earth tones with splashes of highly saturated ‘accent’ colours. No particular colour combination is particularly emblematic of the period, so this is a chance to get creative and do something really unique.
Keep it simple Mid-century modern design is notable for its simplicity and lack of clutter. The emphasis is on smooth, straight lines accented with organic curves, and statement pieces offset by minimalist surroundings. To achieve this look, pare back the unnecessary furnishings and clutter, opt for freshly painted white walls, and then invest in some eye-catching mid-century modern items to act as focal pieces within the room.
Invest in iconic furnishings The best way to achieve the mid-century modern look is to invest in one of the period’s iconic furnishings – the George Nelson Marshmallow sofa, Le Corbusier’s chaise longue and Arne Jacobsen’s Egg chair are all good examples. Many of these pieces were amongst the first generation of mass-produced furniture, and their easy availability made their designers household names at the time. Of course, with such bold items, the old adage ‘less is more’ is particularly apt – you don’t want to crowd your home with these furnishings, but rather select one or two to act as the centrepiece for each room. Of course, original mid-century modern pieces are often beyond most people’s budgets. Fortunately, however, there are plenty of affordable reproductions of many of the period’s most iconic designs. So, if you want to replicate the Mad Men look in your own home, don’t let price put you off – just follow these tips and you could be enjoying your own nostalgic hideaway in no time.
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Control CosyHomely Real Real Fire Fire
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Bring the benefits of a real fire into your home Bring the benefits real fire into stoves your home Visit the largest display of traditionalof anda contemporary wood burning in East Anglia today.
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We have created a display of exceptional wood burning stoves and fires in a showroom to match them. A place where We have created display wood impact. burningAstoves fires in a showroom to from match them. manufacturers. A place where you can step backa and takeofinexceptional their full visual place and to see cutting edge design leading you canwhere step back in theirbyfull impact.ofA aplace to see cutting edge design from leading manufacturers. A place you and can take be inspired thevisual possibilities real fire. A place where you can be inspired by the possibilities of a real fire.
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NOW OPEN in BURY ST EDMUNDS During the seven months since opening our latest showroom at Great Whelnetham near Bury St Edmunds, Angus and Catherine have enjoyed meeting and assisting numerous customers who have visited Colnestoves to seek advice as to which stove will be best suited for them; be it the heat required to a size that will fit into a fireplace Angus and Catherine are happy to share their knowledge. Of course, it is not just stoves and gas fires in our showroom; we also have beautiful stone fireplaces and a working Esse Range Cooker on display! On Saturday April 9th, from 10.30am to 4.30pm, Esse will be demonstrating the EL13AMP Range Cooker using recipes designed by Tim Maddams of River Cottage fame to show the versatility of the Esse range cookers. With ample free parking available, we hope that you will be able to join us in sampling the delicious dishes that will be cooked in the EL13AMP and the cakes that will be baked in the EC4i that is our in store working Esse Range Cooker.
Spring being traditionally the time of year when homes are spruced up and added to, thoughts may be turning to a re-vamp of a tired fireplace or how to heat a planned extension, conservatory or even the summerhouse in the garden! At Colnestoves we are authorised dealers for Charnwood, Clearview, Firenzo, Contura, Chesney’s and Elite Fireplaces, as well as many other brands. Whatever the size of the fireplace or room we are able to offer a wide variety of contemporary and traditional, wood burning or gas, stoves and inset fires as well as Bath Stone and Cabbuca Limestone fireplaces; plus with six teams of time served HETAS and GAS SAFE installers we are able to undertake all manner of installations big or small. Look on Pin-trest, Instagram and You Tube to view the quality stoves, fireplaces and range cooker we have recently installed and on display in our Great Whelnetham showroom and if you like what you see, Angus and Catherine will be looking forward to helping you.
VISIT OUR NEWEST SHOWROOM IN BURY ST EDMUNDS TODAY
Enjoy the incredible value of a King size Hypnos bed (or mattress) for the price of a Double during April & May. There can be no better investment than a quality handmade bed/mattress that delivers years of sumyuous and rejuvenating slumber. So visit our showroom or website and choose a Hypnos bed/mattress that is right for you.
An Essential Guide to
WET ROOMS
If the days of soaking in the tub for hours on end are behind you then its time to invest in a wet room. It’s official, wet rooms are having an interior moment. Convenient for our busy everyday lives and less hassle than having to clean a bath and shower screen, here’s a quick guide to everything thing you need to know: Space Unfortunately, wet rooms don’t work particularly well in small bathrooms as you’ll probably still need to include a shower screen to stop everything getting soaked. So before you take the plunge, take a good look at your bathroom, does the space allow? However, on the plus side, removing a bath from a small bathroom can instantly make the room feel much bigger. Professional plumbing There’s no DIY on this one, a wet room is strictly a job for the professionals. The feature will need specific drainage, the most common being the installation of sub floor made from WBP Ply, which is then tiled over. There are a number of methods that can be used so ensure you discuss all possibilities with your plumber. Waterproof A wet room is essentially just that – a wet, room. Therefore waterproofing is vital. Floors will need to be primed as will the walls, which will then need covering with a syrupy membrane and tiled. Costs It’s not cheap. Wet rooms often involve a huge amount of work and can range between £5,000 - £10,000. However, shop around and retrieve a number of quotes from various companies so you can make a constructive decision. Think ahead Wet rooms do look super sleek and stylish, are easy to clean and can add value to your home. However, if you are thinking about moving home in the future keep in mind that a ma jority of buyers will prefer a home with a bath, so its often best to still have one bath in the home as well as your wet room.
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LIGHTING YOUR WAY Visit The Largest Independent Lighting Showroom in Cambridgeshire THE LAMPSHADE WAREHOUSE LIGHTING OUTLET SUPPLIERS OF QUALITY LIGHTING
10 Saville Road, Westwood, Peterborough, PE3 7PR (next door to the Party Place)
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T: 01733 264391
E: sales@tlsw.co.uk W: www.thelampshadewarehouse.co.uk Opening times Tuesday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday 9am to 4pm
Simple Spring-Cleaning Hacks If you dread the annual deep clean, here are some helpful cleaning tips put together by the money saving team at PromotionalCodes.org.uk to make life a little easier: CLEAN SURFACES WITH WATER AND VINEGAR Mix water and vinegar together with a 50:50 ratio to create an efficient and cost effective cleaning solution. Plus, you can use it on a variety of surfaces. STEAM CLEAN MICROWAVE Clean your microwave the easy way by mixing two tablespoons of white vinegar and a few drops of your favourite essential oil with water and blast it for five minutes. You’ll be left with a shiny clean microwave that smells amazing with zero scrubbing required. CLEAN IRON WITH SALT AND FOIL If you’ve got a build up of dirt and grime on the bottom of your iron then simply turn it on (no steam) and iron a piece of aluminium foil with some salt sprinkled on top. The salt will attract the grime and remove it. REFRESH PLASTIC CONTAINERS Get the leftover curry stains out of plastic containers by putting a solution of washing up liquid, bleach and water in them and microwaving until boiling point. Once cooled, pour away and rinse.
CLEAN TV AND COMPUTER SCREENS WITH COFFEE FILTERS Using paper towels or cloth wipes can create static and attract more dust to your TV or computer screen when cleaning. So use a standard coffee filter instead as a way of leaving your screen clean and clear. RESTORE WATER-MARKED FURNITURE WITH HAIRDRYER If water rings have damaged your coffee table, or other wooden surface, then try holding a hairdryer close to the stain, on a high setting, and watch it disappear. CLEAN YOUR BATHTUB WITH GRAPEFRUIT If you have an issue with bathtub rings and soap scum then worry no more. Simply cut a grapefruit in half, sprinkle some rock salt on top and then scrub away. Not only will it have your tub sparkling in no time but your bathroom will smell divine too. CLEAN AWKWARD SIZED VASES WITH RICE If you struggle to clean certain vases, bottles or wine glasses due to their strange size then try this tip. Fill bottle with uncooked rice, water and washing up liquid, cover and shake until clean. Then rinse and leave to dry.
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Coastal Stoves and Fires of Holt, Norfolk
We are a family-run business and offer a wide and varied selection of Woodburning, MultiFuel and Gas Stoves. In our showroom in Holt we have several on display and below are just a small selection of those on offer…
HOUGHTON
HALL & GARDENS NORFOLK
OPEN 1ST MAY
Unit 3H Glaven Road, Hempstead Road Industrial Estate, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6DL Opening hours: Monday - Friday 9:30am - 4:00pm, Saturday 9:30am - 2:30pm
Tel 01263 711593 Mobile: 07880 658866
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FIND US: School Road, West Walton, Wisbech PE14 7DS
WWW.HOUGHTONHALL.COM
Spring is in the air Kate Gould is an award-winning garden designer with more than a decade’s hands-on experience transforming gardens of all sizes. www.kategouldgardens.com
Spring is in the air, kicking off the busiest time of the year for a gardener. As the days begin to get warmer the weeds will usually be the first thing to burst through and my best advice to manage them successfully throughout the year is to get an early start. The easiest way to remove them is to moisten the soil and pull out by hand – making sure you get right underneath and pull the root out too or it will just grow straight back. Little and often makes the job easier to maintain. April is an excellent month to focus on lawn care. If you have laid grass seed or turf it must be kept watered daily so if the English weather doesn’t provide the rain expected, you will need to do it manually. Don’t let it dry out between watering and the next bout of showers! With our increasingly wet winters and summers it is also very important to aerate your lawn in April which gives established grass more air and growing space and helps it to drain excess water away more efficiently. Easiest results are achieved with a lawn aerator machine or if you haven’t got space to get this in then a manual hollow tine aerator will do. Happily, the hard work of preparing your garden for the productive months ahead is softened by the beautiful displays of bulbs that will start popping up about now, like the daffodils and hyacinths. The bright colours and delicious scents remind us of the rewards of gardening and as the days get steadily warmer it gets more and more enjoyable. Pansies and primroses are a good choice for an instant splash of early spring colour in the garden; they are pretty hardy and will survive the cooler nights. Their bright colours are wonderful interspersed in clumps through the spring bulbs and if you keep dead heading they should keep going until the warmer summer months. Finally don’t forget to sterilise your pots and trays ready for sowing seeds in a month or so.
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Concept Bathrooms & Kitchens Visit our Bathroom and Kitchen Showroom for inspiration ■ Bathrooms, Shower Rooms & Wetrooms ■ Kitchen Design & Planning ■ Supply Only or Supply and Installation ■ Over 30 Years Combined Experience Opening Times Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm Saturday: 9am - 3pm | Sunday: CLOSED
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Serving Cambridge and surrounding areas
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Top quality, weed-free turf at the right price Professional suppliers to Golf & Bowling Clubs, Landscapers, Construction Companies and the General Public throughout the UK
All requirements at Competitive Prices We offer expert assistance and free advice to those gardners needing to renew their lawns. We provide an excellent, efficient service and would be very pleased to welcome you at our depot.
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Over 60 antiques dealers under one roof selling a wide range of antiques, collectables and vintage items. Visit our Arts & Crafts Beach Huts and The Flying Goose CafĂŠ. There are five acres of open gardens and fields to enjoy and ample free parking.
Yellow Flowers in Spring Sunshine Bass Rock by J I Bridgland.
www.limetreegallery.com Tel: 01787 319046 Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk, CO10 9JF
We are open 6 days a week: Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 5. 00pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 10.00am to 4.00pm Closed Tuesdays.
01728 668844
www.yoxfordantiques.com Find us on the A1120, between Yoxford and Peasenhall (IP17 3JW).
Gainsborough’s House Museum
Open: Monday - Saturday 10am to 5pm Sunday 11am to 5pm T: 01787 372958 | www.gainsborough.org the best of Suffolk
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The Shepherd’s Line by Pam Carter
Yellow Roses by Peter King
Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right. Although a biting breeze still prevails, wrap up warm this month and enjoy a safe view of nature’s bountiful moods in the form of paint, canvas and paper. From the 9 April you can catch the ‘Colour’ exhibition at the wonderful Lime Tree Gallery in Long Melford, Suffolk. Focusing on the power of colour and light, this collection is a superb visual treat from four of Scotland’s leading contemporary artists. From the vibrancy of Judith Bridgland to the cool command of Marion Thomson, every shade and hue is gathered together in a riotous collaboration of pigment and emotion. Born in Australia in 1962, and later trained in Glasgow, Scotland, Judith Bridgland is one of Britain’s most well known painters. Working in oils her vigorous rhythmical strokes of impasto paint reflect natures contrasts and harmonies. Capturing the ever-changing light, she conveys a moving landscape of fields, mountains, hedgerows and sea. Judith’s sophisticated compositions are entwined with texture and energy producing highly expressive works that place the viewer within the picture frame. Also creating more than just an image is the distinctive painter Peter King. Born in Glasgow in 1953 and later studying at the Glasgow Art School, King
ARTS
THE ARTS COLUMN
51 Norton Way N, Letchworth Garden City SG6 1BH Tel: 01462 685139
creates a world of intense energy and power. Subtle and masterful vistas of snow, vale and mountains compel us to look, consider and wonder at the world that he portrays. Akin to King, with her pure sense of colour is landscape painter Pam Carter. Her stunning compositions of land, coast and sea are imbued with contrast and harmony. Subtle hues of blue disperse into distant horizons, whilst warm umbers and terracotta offer a safe haven of firm ground before us. Pam combines mysterious depth with a sense of solid wellbeing. A perfect complement to the group is the much cooler palette of Marion Thomson. Marion’s work is often inspired by the Outer Hebrides. Focusing on the combination of light and weather, she strives to capture the sense of space and atmosphere that the land and sea is made from. This powerful exhibition is an excellent homage to the harnessed and unharnessed force of nature. Awe inspiring and fascinating it reflects beautifully the fickle character of an early spring. Colour, 9 April – 6 May The Lime Tree Gallery, Lime Tree House, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk, CO10 9JF. Tel: 01787 319046 info@thelimetreegallery.com
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ADVERTORIAL
CHARLES DEBENHAM “And Now You See It”
I first met Charles Debenham when we became fellow students at Colchester School of Art in the early fifties. Charles, at this time, could often be found in the print room with an audience, observing him wood engraving to a high standard. I remember in 1953 making a comment about Stalin’s death – Charles said “It’s alright Richard, he’s dead, and you are still about and breathing, here and now!”. A short reality lesson for a 17-year-old! I remember being impressed by his diploma thesis on Goya, which contained beautiful copied ‘Disasters of War’ prints, using pen and ink. I would say his work made a positive impression on all of us. Two years ago we went to Sicily and had an unfriendly encounter with a gang demanding money at a railway station in Noto. One member of the gang was left hors de combat by a sharp knock on the head by Charles’ walking stick! We survived and found ourselves at the police station looking at mug shots of possible gang members. Our hosts googled us and discovered that Charles had done work for the Queen Mother, and the next day Noto town invited us back to a Mayoral reception in the Town Hall. We were given a first-class meal and taken to see Noto’s tourist areas. Charles insisted that we carried on with our sketching and drawing, the correct advice (as always). Charles’ work is very evocative of urban and rural scenes, executed in oils. There is sometimes an element of humour in the images, or something that sparks an interest that is out of the ordinary. The subject matter is often views of Colchester that caught his eye and interest. Charles has always been professional in his approach to his own work. He has always had a disciplined attitude to work in hand; commissions, exhibitions, design work and the studio environment, which is all to his credit. He has a sense of fun which is happily married with a good business brain, complemented by his discipline and dedication.
Charles Debenham: Controversial View, Colchester Oil on board, 2014 (10 x 9 inches)
OIL PAINTINGS RECENT WORK 12th March – 3rd April, 2016 Exhibition at Chappel Galleries Colchester Road Chappel Essex CO6 2DE - 01206 240326 Exhibition open Wednesday – Sunday 10am to 5pm, 28 page illustrated exhibition booklet available on request
CHAPPEL GALLERIES FINE ART ADDRESS:
15 Colchester Road, Chappel, Essex. CO6 2DE
TELEPHONE:
+44 (0)1206 240 326
EMAIL:
info@chappelgalleries.co.uk
WEBSITE:
www.chappelgalleries.co.uk
PROPRIETORS: Edna Mirecka (Battye) Wladyslaw Mirecki
from Richard Hore’s Introduction for the booklet ‘And Now You See It’.
You can read more about Charles Debenham and Chappel Galleries here: www.chappelgalleries.co.uk
GALLERY OPEN:
Saturday & Sundays 10.00 am to 5.00 pm see extended hours for the exhibition.
APRIL
ARTS NEWS
BRIARFIELDS ANNOUNCES LITERARY LINE-UP FOR 2016 BOOKFEST DATES Briarfields Hotel in Titchwell has announced a third date for its 2016 literary events. Best-selling author Freya North, whose latest novel, The Turning Point, is set in Norfolk will give an author’s talk at Briarfields on Saturday 25 June. Freya North
The novelist is the latest name to be announced as a speaker at its Bookfests, the first of which will feature novelist Clare Mackintosh on Sunday 17 April. Also confirmed for 2016 is author Mark Billingham who will speak on Sunday 16 October. His Tom Thorne series has been adapted for television, with David Morrissey starring as Thorne. His latest book is Time of Death, the thirteenth novel in the series. www.briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk
‘Regent Street Rain’ - Neil Dawson
Spring season at Chelmsford City Theatres This spring will see a fantastic variety of entertainment on offer at Chelmsford City Theatres that is sure to suit all tastes and audiences. London’s rising stars from the ballet world will be displaying their talent in a sparkling programme of neo-classical, contemporary and narrative dance in Ballet Central 2016 on Friday 15 April at the Civic Theatre. Later in April, Vamos Theatre, will be bringing their exceptional new play to Chelmsford’s Cramphorn Studio on Friday 29 April. Based on true experiences, The Best Thing is a poignant, humorous and gritty swinging 60s story of mistaken morals and the power of unconditional love. On 2 May audience members in Essex can also enjoy a new and exciting musical, Ireland’s Call, which takes place at the Civic Theatre. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres
PAINTER WHO SWAPPED FINANCE CAREER FOR FINE ART LAUNCHES NORWICH EXHIBITION Critically acclaimed artist Neil Dawson will be making a guest appearance at Castle Fine Art, Norwich on Saturday 23 April, 1pm-4pm, to unveil a newly curated exhibition of his work, ‘Come Rain or Shine’. He will present his much anticipated new limited edition pieces, alongside a range of rare original artworks created especially for this touring exhibition. Originally from Essex, Dawson was drawn to creating art from a young age and went on to study the subject at Central Saint Martins College in London as an undergraduate. However, after he finished his course, he decided to pursue a career in banking, not picking up a paintbrush for many years. Dawson rediscovered his passion for art after an extended period of travel – when he got home, he dusted off the palette and paints in an attempt to recapture some of the sights and experiences from his time abroad. www.castlegalleries.com
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NORFOLK
SECRET NORFOLK
Life in a Fine County
Written by Nicole Ranaweera
Norfolk born and bred, I love this county; its quirks, eccentricities and hidden gems, and I really do love nothing more than spending an evening within the walls of our fine city. With such an abundance of bars and pubs to choose from though, where do you go for a great evening out? It was hard to narrow it down, but I give you my top 5 fave haunts… 1.THE BIRDCAGE 23 POTTERGATE, NORWICH Previously a very traditional pub, The Birdcage is a million miles away from the pub it was in the 80s and 90s. With a beautiful interior and vibrant atmosphere, this pub not only hosts events that range from life drawing to live music, but also plays gallery to some fantastic street art. www.thebirdcagenorwich.co.uk 2. THE BICYCLE SHOP, 17 ST BENEDICT’S STREET, NORWICH Once quite literally a bicycle shop, this funky café bar can no longer sell you a bike. Instead head on in for food, live music and drinks in a chilled but buzzing atmosphere. www.thebicycleshopcafe.com 3. THE PLAYHOUSE BAR, 42-58 ST GEORGE’S STREET, NORWICH Another great quirky bar, The Playhouse plays host to live music, guest DJs plus the Red Wall Exhibition space. Let’s also not forget the lovely courtyard terrace and the amazing Ceilingopolis! Don’t forget to look up whilst you’re waiting for your drink!
www.theplayhousebar.co.uk 4. FRANKS BAR, 19 BEDFORD STREET, NORWICH Franks is a fantastically quirky little café-bar, right in the heart of Norwich. Like most of my favourite bars and pubs it’s small, but perfectly formed! If you’re after a place that has chilled playlists, a great atmosphere and friendly staff, this is the place to go. www.franksbar.co.uk 5. THE PLOUGH, 58 ST BENEDICT’S STREET, NORWICH Formerly a slightly shady establishment, The Plough was reborn thanks to The Grain Brewery and truly has become a real city gem. Cosy in the winter, the beautiful (and surprisingly large) beer garden out the back is perfect for summer drinking. www.theploughnorwich.co.uk
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Sometimes it’s nice to escape city life and enjoy shopping at a slower pace. Wymondham has a wide selection of stores including a number of independent boutiques. A market is held every Friday, and on the third Sunday of every month, the Farmers’ Market features a great selection of local produce. STATION BISTRO WYMONDHAM A visit to the town wouldn’t be complete without a bite to eat at the Station Bistro. The quirky restaurant is housed at the historic Wymondham Railway Station. Diners can be seated in either the Image credit: Gordon Ridgewell
bistro or step back in time in the train carriage. Both rooms feature log fires which add to the atmosphere and take the chill off cold days. Cake and snacks are available as well as larger meals such as cooked breakfasts, all day lunch and Sunday roasts. www.station-bistro-wymondham.co.uk Wymondham Music Festival One of the highlights of Wymondham’s social calendar is its annual music festival. This year the festival will run one week later than in previous years, from 1 – 16 July. Visitors can expect a line-up of talented musicians and the return of the Jazz Picnic on 4 July and the Teddy Bears’ Picnic – two hours of musical fun for the under 5s on 10 July. The annual Town Busking Day is also on the menu, taking place on Saturday 28 May, and there are two Market Place Music sessions on Saturdays 11 and 25 June. For the full line-up of events visit www.wymfest.org.uk
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The
Judith Fox
Ballet School
WYMONDHAM MUSIC FESTIVAL 2016 Wymondham Music Festival Reg Charity no 1081375
The Judith Fox Ballet School likes to introduce a love of ballet to as many children as possible.
FESTIVAL FORTNIGHT
FRI 1 JULY - SAT 16 JULY
The emphasis being on enjoyment, but with a serious side for those who would like to go on to vocational school and a possible career in the dance world. Students have been accepted in top schools and gone on to a professional career. Classes take place throughout the week, with the youngest on Saturday mornings when full of beans.
Adult classes (good excercise) in ballet, tap, street.
FIND US ON:
The Foxes, Tuttles Lane East, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 0EW
Tel: 01953 607235 Judith Fox 1/4.indd 1
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DON’T M I S S WOMEN’S HOUR, 4 MAY, NORWICH ARTS CENTRE A fast paced theatre sketch show that wowed audiences and critics alike at the Edinburgh Fringe and on tour. It’s a show that’s great fun, very funny yet makes some very serious points about the way the media treats women in 2016 - feminist theatre for all genders. A mix of satire, song, comedy cabaret and performance art taking its cues loosely from the Radio 4 programme with a similar name, Women’s Hour is a cutting expose of the treatment of women in the media and includes sections that are rewritten for each show to reflect current affairs. Tel: 01603 660352 www.norwichartscentre.co.uk
What’s on in Norfolk THEATRE & SHOWS 5-Apr Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man Sensational new dance cinema event from celebrated choreographer Matthew Bourne. A story of lust, betrayal and revenge set in a small-town America garage-diner in the 1960s. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 6-9 Apr Urinetown ‘Urinetown: The Musical’ is a social and political satire set in a dystopian future where a terrible 20-year drought has crippled the city’s water supplies. Water is so scarce that the government enforces a ban on all private toilets in an effort to control water consumption. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 6-Apr That’ll be the Day The nation’s favourite rock ‘n’ roll variety spectacular features a fantastic line up of knock-out hits from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus more side-splitting comedy. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 6-9 Apr Made in Dagenham: The Musical Inspired by a true story and based on the hit movie, comes this uplifting new British musical comedy about friendship, love and the importance of fighting for what is right. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 7-Apr Craig Campbell This internationally acclaimed comedian is one of stand-ups most charismatic and inventive performers with hilarious tales of globetrotting adventure never failing to impress (one expectant mother laughed so hard her waters broke!). Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 8-9 Apr My First Ballet An enchanting version of the fairy tale ballet created especially for children. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 8-9 & 15-16 Apr Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads: A Lady of Letters & A Cream Cracker under the Settee Two more stories are unfolded in Bennett’s inimitable, compelling
EDITOR’S CHOICE
ARTS LOUNGE GALLERY 25 April – 3 May For one week only, an exhibition of new works by Steven Allen and Barbara Cichocka. Portraits of well-known actors and rock singers such as David Bowie, Al Pacino, still life, botanical and landscape paintings. SPRING ARTS EXHIBITION From 3rd – 31st May Various artists will be exhibiting their works of art and creations such as handmade glass, ceramics, original paintings and silver jewellery. Visit a gallery like no other - designed for the artist by artists! 15 Market Place, Swaffham, PE37 7AB. Tel: 01760 723624 www.theartslounge.co.uk and completely absorbing style. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 12-16 Apr Hobson’s Choice Henry Horatio Hobson is one of the greatest characters in English drama. Self-made man, shopkeeper, skinflint and boozer, he’s a tyrant to his daughters and a law unto himself. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 12-Apr Lee Nelson: Suited and Booted Another chance to see his brilliant live show. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk
13-Apr Byron Vincent : Talk About Something You Like Tour Byron Vincent’s comical and confessional account of living with the mental health diagnosis – bipolar affective disorder. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 19-23 Apr Swan Lake Adored by audiences for over a hundred years Swan Lake is the most famous ballet in the world. Performed to Tchaikovsky’s beautiful and moving score, played live by Northern Ballet Sinfonia. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 19-20 Apr Aladdin A ‘not-so-traditional’ version, from the multi award-winning Lavender Hill Mob Theatre Company, an inclusive organisation based in King’s Lynn. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 20-23 Apr 9 to 5 The Musical Set in the late 1970s this hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. It is outrageous, thought provoking and even a little romantic. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 22-30 Apr King Lear Shakespeare’s lyrical tragedy is set at the heart of a crumbling dictatorship. Ageing tyrant Lear faces the consequences of maintaining his supremacy through surveillance and cruelty, rather than wisdom. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 25-Apr The Joke A new play from comedy award winning writers, exploring jokes and why we tell them, countries and why we need (and despair of) them, and life and why we bother. And tic tacs. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 28-Apr A Night of Dirty Dancing Relive the passion, indulge in the romance and celebrate the greatest movie soundtrack of all time. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
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NORFOLK COAST LANDSCAPE
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Mid-Norfolk Railway
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For further details or book a place, contact tonylumb@hotmail.com
Open from the end of February to Christmas, join us for:
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• On-train Cream Teas and High Teas • Weekend at War • Beer Festival • Halloween Trains • Santa Specials (The Lapland Express)
You can even book Dereham Station and a complete train for your Wedding Reception For full details and to book, telephone 01362 851723 or visit our website at www.mnr.org.uk
East Anglia’s newest and biggest Steiff shop with a huge selection of over 500 Different bears and animals in stock to suit people aged 0 to 100 and over. Shop open 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 10am To 4pm Sundays and bank holidays. THE
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29-Apr Winter ‘53 ‘Winter ‘53’ is set in the fictional coastal village of Boxham in the months leading up to the catastrophic floods of January 1953. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com MUSIC 9-Apr Anna & Ray Anna has an amazing voice and Ray’s guitar accompaniment compliments it perfectly. They sing and play traditional folk and also their own compositions. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU 01328 710193. www.granarytheatre.co.uk 10-Apr St. Gregory’s Orchestra Spring Concert St. Gregory’s Orchestra returns to The Maddermarket with three very different examples of nineteenth century music. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 10-Apr Country Legends Now in its’ 15th year Solid Gold Country Legends is a “Celebration of the Best in Country Music”, and has proved popular on both sides of the Atlantic. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 12-Apr The Railsplitters Renowned across America for their exhilarating performances and great playing, The Railsplitters, working out of the Colorado Rockies, have made a huge impact in recent times. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 13-Apr Tosca Opera & Ballet International proudly presents an Ellen Kent production with international soloists, highly praised chorus and full orchestra. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 15-Apr Song Inspired by Shakespeare Without much ado, David Rees and Julie Hewitt invite you to an evening of song - melodies, ballads and belters, all inspired by the works of The Bard of Avon. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 16-Apr Jacqui Dankworth: Shakespeare and all that Jazz! This year is the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. To mark the occasion, jazz star Jacqui Dankworth revisits the musical settings of Shakespeare’s poetry inspired by and taken from the seminal album Shakespeare And All That Jazz. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598
www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 16-Apr Simon & Garfunkel Incredible live performances are bound together with delightfully-produced audio visual footage of the original artistes in an all-new production that is both moving and powerful. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 17-Apr Derek Ryan Derek Ryan’s rise to become one of the biggest stars of Irish Country music has been phenomenal. In just over five years few artists have made such an impact on the Irish country scene like the Co. Carlow singer songwriter. Princess Theatre 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk
Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 593199. scva.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 3-Apr The Norfolk Boat Jumble A popular annual event for boating, fishing and watersports enthusiasts with a wide variety of stands selling new and used equipment from trade and private vendors. Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, Costessey, NR5 0TT. 01485 541566 norfolkshowground.rnaa.org.uk 6-7 Apr Tractor Trailer Tours at Holkham Hall Hop on board Holkham’s trailer for a guided tour to see some of the arable farmland within Holkham Park. The tour is an excellent opportunity to explore behind the scenes. Holkham Hall, Wells-next- the-Sea, NR23 1AB 01328 713111. www.holkham.co.uk
23-Apr Shonen Knife Shonen Knife are a ground-breaking all-female Japanese, pop-punk rock trio formed in Osaka in 1981, when Naoko Yamana first heard late ‘70’s punk-pop, particularly The Ramones. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk
13-Apr The Fantastic Story of Flint at Lynn Museum Join Oliver Bone, Curator of Lynn Museum, to find out about how flint has been used from Stone Age axes to gun flints. Advanced booking essential. Lynn Museum, Market Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1NL. 01553 775001. www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk
28-Apr Totally Tina ‘Totally Tina’ is an internationally acclaimed award winning tribute revue show to the Queen of Rock. The show re-creates the spectacle and energy of her live shows with a six-piece band, four stunning dancers and Justine’s incredible impersonation of Tina Turner. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk
17-Apr Strolling with Shakespeare Enjoy a walk around historic Norwich and hear some of Shakespeare’s sonnets performed by members of the Maddermarket Theatre Company. Walks depart every 30 minutes. Tickets need to be booked in advance. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 3-23 Apr A Figrative Prescence Mandell’s Gallery, Elm Hill, Norwich, NR3 1HN. 01603 626892 www.mandellsgallery.co.uk 4-30 Apr Massingham Open Studios In various media, a preview of the Open Studios’ Art Trail. Featuring four Massingham artists: Peter Lawton, Su’en Miller, Baz Pratt, Karen Wadham. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 13-26 Apr The Butterfly Ball, Cley Marshes This exhibition by Wendy Nix features watercolours inspired by Cley and her most recent collection of work based on butterfly surveys. NWT Cley Marshes, NR25 7SA www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk 23 Apr - 29 Aug Alberto Giacometti: A Line Through Time The exhibition will commemorate 50th anniversary of the artist’s death and is an exciting opportunity to examine the artist’s influence amongst his contemporaries in Paris and his impact on British art in the post-war period. The
23-24 Apr The East Anglian Game & Country Fair An annual two day, family event held at the Norfolk Showground. Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, Costessey, NR5 0TT. 01485 541566. norfolkshowground.rnaa.org.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 10 & 24 Apr Blakeney Antique & Collectors Fair Maximum 24 Tables. Free parking, refreshments. Open 10am-4pm. £1 admission. Blakeney Village Hall, Blakeney, NR25 7NQ. 01263 713120 19-Apr Antiques & Collectors Fair Community Hall Dealers in glass, porcelain, ceramics, retro accessories, shabby chic and small furniture and much more. Free Admission. Community Hall, Garden Street, Cromer, NR27 9HH 07501 782821 23-Apr Fleamarket With an uninterrupted run of over 35 years the Fleamarket attracts buyers and browsers of all ages. Offering a wide and varied range of collectables. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
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BEDS, BUCKS, HERTS
THE BEST OF
BEDFORD Written by Kate Chaundy
Bedford is a town steeped in history so why not spend the day discovering some of the delights? You can start in the town centre where St Paul’s Church stands dating back to the 13th century. Here, Bedford’s most famous son John Bunyan, author of The Pilgrim’s Progress, once preached, as did, a century later, the Methodist founder John Wesley. The BBC also broadcast services in secret from one of its chapels during the war, which you can learn more about at the recently refurbished Higgins Bedford Museum (www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk). Also, showing here until 10 April are all nine of its Turner landscapes in an exhibition entitled J.M.W. Turner and the Art of Watercolour - a must-see! SHOPPING If this is all bit too cultural and retail therapy is more to your liking, why not head over to the beautifully designed artisan gift shop ‘épanoui’ (www.epanoui. co.uk), opened recently by local jewellery designer Hannah Paine who can help you choose a special piece hand-made by her on site. Or visit the new independent children’s bookstore on Castle Road ‘Rogan’s Books’ (www.rogansbooks.co.uk).
FOOD & DRINK If by now you’re thirsting for a cup of tea or coffee, try the delightful Pavilion in Bedford Park (www.pavilion. attheparkbedford.co.uk) where you can also indulge in a delicious lunch or maybe just a naughty cake. If you’re looking for something a bit stronger, the award-winning Wellington Arms may be just the ticket (www.thewelly.wix.com/bedford). It doesn’t serve food but it has 14 real ales on draft and other beers from around the world in an authentic pub atmosphere. There’s also two new offerings to enjoy; The Artisan Tap, part of a UK chain giving craft beer fans a new haven, and the St Peters Ale House, a micro-pub on the edge of the town centre, introducing local ales, ciders, wines and even snacks from the region. WHAT’S ON Jazz on the Great Ouse Following the success of last year’s Jazz on the Great Ouse Cruises the John Bunyan Boat Team have announced the programme for 2016. The programme begins with piano jazz by the Alan Haughton Trio on 19 May, with further events held on 23 June, 21 July and 18 August. Tickets priced £17.50. For full details visit www.Johnbunyanboat.org The 20th Bedford Proms Taking place on Saturday 6 August in Bedford Park, the concert will feature music from Classical Brit award-winning group ‘Blake’ and Soprano Rebecca Newman and additional artists. The evening will conclude with a spectacular firework display. www.pavilion.attheparkbedford.co.uk Tom Jones Live Tom Jones along with his band are set to entertain Bedford with a repertoire that spans five decades on 7 August at Bedford Park. Read more from Kate every month at www.eastlife.co.uk Follow her on Twitter @chaunds
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What’s on in Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE & SHOWS 2-17 Apr Laila - The Musical From the Persian deserts, the bittersweet story of star-crossed lovers Laila and Ma jnu, has been passed down through verse and song over centuries. The story of young love and feuding families is given a modern musical twist, taking you across the sands of time. Will love or fate prevail? Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford , WD17 1JZ 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 4-9 Apr Hairspray It’s Baltimore, 1962 where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for equality, bagging local heartthrob Link Larkin along the way! Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 5-Apr Russell Kane – Right Man, Wrong Age In this brand new show, Russell Kane unleashes another blisteringly-funny, award-winning stand-up performance about growing up, growing down, and why farts will always be funny. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 5-9 Apr I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change A musical comedy revue that explores everything you have ever thought about dating, romance, marriage, lovers, husbands, wives and in-laws but were afraid to admit. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY www.courttheatre.co.uk 5-9 Apr Tom This inspirational story of self-belief and determination is performed live on stage by a phenomenal cast of actors and musicians, celebrating an ordinary man with an extraordinary talent who became a superstar on a world stage. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 9-Apr Pinocchio Set to a stunning classical score this original production will delight ballet audiences and families alike and promises to carve a new love for Pinocchio through the magic of classical dance. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 9-Apr Foil Arms and Hog With over 4 million hits on YouTube, five exclusives on American comedy website Funny or Die and an endorsement from Rowan Atkinson, they are one of Ireland’s finest comedy prospects. This show was
sold out at The Ent Shed last year, so make sure you get your tickets early. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 12-Apr An Evening with Aggers and Tuffers This will be a fascinating, entertaining, no-holds-barred evening for cricket fans and non-lovers of the game alike and there will be an opportunity for the audience to tweet Aggers with their own questions. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 12-16 Apr Goodnight Mister Tom Set during the dangerous build up to the Second World War, ‘Goodnight Mister Tom’ follows young William Beech, who is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside and forges a remarkable and heart warming friendship with the elderly recluse, Tom Oakley. All is perfect until William is suddenly summoned by his mother back to London. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 12-23 Apr The Bodyguard ‘The Bodyguard’, the award-winning musical based on the blockbuster film, is heading on tour in 2016 starring threetime Brit nominee and X-Factor winner, Alexandra Burke as Rachel Marron. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 14-Apr The Importance of Being Earnest Everybody loves Ernest. The only trouble is, he doesn’t exist. Or does he? Oscar Wilde’s comic masterpiece gets The Pantaloons treatment in our anarchic take on the classic comedy of manners. This energetic show features all the usual Wildean wit, plus a few Pantaloony surprises including singing butlers, travel by means of musical montage and a post-interval hollywood-style recap. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road Bedford, MK40 3DE, 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org 14-Apr The Best Thing A swinging sixties story of unconditional love from the UK’s leading full mask theatre company. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 14-16 Apr Avenue Q ‘Avenue Q’ is not the most up-market of streets, but its home to some lively and off the wall characters performed by unholy comedic alliance of humans and puppets. Hertford Theatre, The Wash Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com
15-Apr Safe A emotionally charged performance, combined with a punchy choreographic language, pits masculinity against fragility. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN 01234 362337. www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 18-23 Apr Hertford Theatre Week The 55th year of Hertford’s nationally acclaimed drama festival for full-length plays. Six nights, six productions, performed in competition, all professionally adjudicated each evening by Colin Dolley, GODA, SASDA, one of the country’s leading adjudicators. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 18-20 Apr Round and Round The Garden In this play, Sarah’s desperate attempts to have a nice, civilized week end culminate, not surprisingly, in disaster. Ruth, Norman’s wife, is summoned but Norman still contrives to cause havoc involving, finally, all three women. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 20-23 Apr One Man, Two Guv’nors Internationally acclaimed smash and glorious celebration of British comedy – a unique, laugh-out-loud mix of satire, music, slapstick and glittering one-liners. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk 21-23 Apr Shakespeare Untold In Romeo Untold, the story of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet is retold through the eyes of the Capulet Ball’s party planner. Titus Untold retells Shakespeare’s goriest tragedy, Titus Andronicus, as seen from the kitchen of Titus’s piemaker. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 26-30 Apr Legally Blonde: The Musical A fabulously fun international award-winning musical based on the adored movie, ‘Legally Blonde The Musical’, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery, and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. This action-packed musical explodes on the stage with memorable songs and dynamic dances. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 26-30 Apr Swan Lake Adored by audiences for over a hundred years, Swan Lake is the most famous ballet in the world. Milton Keynes, Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ . 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com
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27 Apr - 7 May Wipers Inspired by the real life story of Khudadad Khan this explosive new play by acclaimed playwright Ishy Din honours the contribution of the million South Asian soldiers who fought alongside their British brothers during the First World War. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 29-Apr Ruby Wax: Sane New World Ruby returns to Hertford with this event, as a follow up to her sell out touring show, and best-selling book, ‘Sane New World’, which helps us understand why we sabotage our sanity with our own thinking. Hertford Theatre, The Wash Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com MUSIC 6-Apr An Afternoon of Music Philip Demonti is pleased to present an afternoon of music, playing evergreens from the stage and screen. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 7-Apr Kate Rusby A remarkable interpretive singer, Kate’s soulful vocals resonate with the wistful beauty of an earthbound angel. Inhabiting a lyric with unforced conviction – no matter how old or how modern – she has that rare ability to transport her audience, of touching them emotionally and making each tune live vividly within their experience and imagination. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 10-Apr G4: Back for Good Due to the overwhelming demand for G4, they are delighted to return to the stage in 2016 with their new and exciting Back For Good tour, which is set to further showcase their flawless vocals in even more towns and cities nationwide. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 10-Apr Back to Basie ‘Back To Basie’ is the only professional big-band in Britain to specialise in the music of Count Basie, his legendary ‘Swingin’ Machine’. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU 01908 280800. www.stables.org 10-Apr Pop Factor the Concert Let ‘Pop Factor’ take you partying on a non-stop, high energy ride that leaves you dancing and singing all night! We challenge you to come along and be able to sit still! Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 13-Apr Live Midweek Music – Que Pasa Relax on a Wednesday evening at Rhodes while listening to our resident Jazz Quintet, Que Pasa. Free Entry. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 14-Apr Some Guys Have All the Luck The brand new ‘Some Guys Have All the Luck’ theatrical production featuring Paul Metcalfe will tell the story of Rod from street busker through to international superstar. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP
01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 14-Apr An Evening With Gerry And The Pacemakers Join in this musical journey through the life and times of one of our greatest 60s icons - Gerry Marsden. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 17-Apr Liza Pulman Sings Hollywood Liza Pulman brings you an evening of some of the greatest songs from the silver screen. Her glorious voice, charming personality and quirky comedic skills make her a unique entertainer. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 22-Apr Rat Pack Live Celebrating the centenary of Sinatra, an all-new spectacular brings together the UK’s No1 Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jnr and Frank Sinatra for the first time ever in the “swingsational” show of the year. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 28-Apr We’ll Meet Again An afternoon show of real variety with a tribute to our Armed Forces of yesterday, today and tomorrow. With all the great songs and Music of the War Years. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 30-Apr A Vision of Elvis One the world’s leading touring Elvis productions. Celebrating all the music of Elvis Presley from Sun Studio’s through to ‘68 Comeback with the finale being the Concert Years engaging audiences with an uplifting and authentic Elvis experience. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1-29 Apr The Eastern Region Textile Forum The intriguing theme of ‘Order and Chaos’ has been the subject of much discussion within the group and the resulting textile art work promises to be exciting and wide ranging in traditional and contemporary skills and techniques. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 2-9 Apr Jill Goodyear and Keith Wells One week show. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP 01234 346995. www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 9 Apr - 8 May Hertford Art Trail Hertford Art Trail returns this spring following last year’s successful event which showcased the work of talented artists across 28 Hertford locations. For one month, pop-up exhibition spaces will be located across the town centre. The Art Trail forms part of the Hertford Arts Festival, also encompassing the English Celebration Street Festival and the Hertford Castle Craft Market and Open Day. Courtyard Arts, Port Vale Hertford, SG14 3AA. 01992 509596 www.courtyardarts.org.uk 29 Apr - 29 May Printmaking: Beds, Bucks & Herts Print Society
An exciting printmaking exhibition from the BBH print society. With a wonderful range of high quality hand-pulled prints of all techniques that include linocut, screenprint, collagraph, solarprint, etching and drypoint. Obsidian Art, Old Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville, HP22 5XJ. 01296 612150. www.obsidianart.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 5, 17 & 24 Apr St Albans Electric Bike Tour Cycling with tea and cake! The electric bike is a great way to explore the great outdoors. The ride starts from the Mill Green Mill in Hatfield and visits many locations including Verulamium Park, Gorhambury and Wheathampstead, before returning along the Ayot Greenway to the Mill. Mill Green Mill, Hatfield. enjoystalbans.com 16-17 Apr The East of England Food Festival A celebration of all that is good to eat and drink from across the Eastern Region and far beyond. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX. 01206 263088. www.oakleighfairs.co.uk 17-Apr The Whistling Duck Wedding Fair Meet quality local exhibitors and enjoy two great fashion shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Admission and car parking are free of charge. Open 11am - 3.30pm. The Whistling Duck, Lower Hatfield Road, Hertford, SG13 8XX. 0800 3689366 www.wedding-exhibitions.co.uk 24-Apr Watford Colosseum’s Wedding Show With over 50 of the regions’ best suppliers, from venues to dresses; cakes to singing waiters to help you make your dream day a perfect day. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 3-Apr Flitwick Antiques and Collectors Fair Flitwick Antiques and Collectors fair is held on the first sunday of each month.There is ample off road parking, homemade refreshments and a wide range of interesting items for sale. Flitwick Village Hall, Dunstable Road, Flitwick, MK45 1HP. 077305 62329 17-Apr Biggleswade Antiques Fair 40 stalls offering antiques from silver, quality jewellery, vintage, pictures, books, china, postcards and small furniture. 9.30am-4pm. Entry £1.50. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH 01480 382432 24-Apr Hertfordshire Antiques And Collectors Fair 40 tables selling quality and interesting items in two halls. Redbourn Village Hall, High Street, Redbourn, AL3 7LW 07951 014022 24-Apr Hertfordshire’s Antique & Collectables Fair Antique & Collectables fair. 36 stalls. 9.30am - 4pm. Bushy Golf Club, High Street, Bushy, WD23 1TT 07887 648255 30-Apr Bedfordshire’s Antiques & Collectors Fair St Pauls Jewellery, furniture and more. Opens at 10am- 4pm. Entry £1. St Paul’s Church St Pauls Square, Bedford, MK40 1SQ
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SUFFOLK
48 HOUR GUIDE TO
BURY ST EDMUNDS Written by Amanda French
Only have 48 hours to enjoy the best of the Suffolk historic market town, Bury St Edmunds? Fear not, we’ve pulled together some ideas for how to pack everything into a weekend or short break. Day 1 Arrived on a Wednesday or a Saturday? There’s only one way to spend your afternoon…meandering through the produce market. Dating back to 945 the market now has over 80 stalls packed full of fresh food and drink for you to try nibble on the move or buy to take home. Burn off some of the calories eaten during your trip through the market with a wander over to the old side of town. See the cathedral in all its glory, move onto the Medieval quarter of the town and finally have a wander through the Abbey Gardens. Check into the beautiful 4-star boutique hotel, The Angel (www.theangel.co.uk) for the night. Filled with curiosities, pop art and eccentric oddities, with a touch of luxury, you’ll enjoy a good night’s sleep in the upmost comfort. Head out for dinner at Casa Del Mar (www.casa delmar.co.uk) with sharing tapas and meze dishes, which means you can try a little of everything. If you are looking for something different, there are plenty of dining options in Bury St Edmunds from formal to fun. The Regency Playhouse and The Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds have a great programme of shows and performances, so why not see if there’s something that takes your fancy during your stay?
Day 2 After a delicious breakfast at The Angel Hotel, it’s time to head out into Bury St Edmunds once again. Visit Clarice House (www.claricehouse.co.uk) for some well-deserved pampering with spa days starting at £79 per person or enjoy a treatment of your choice from the choices available. After a busy day of relaxation, head into town and enjoy afternoon tea at Harriets Café Tea Rooms (www.harrietscafetearooms.co.uk) in the old Cornhill Buildings. Try the celebration tea for £24.95 per person which includes a glass of champagne along with a delicious afternoon tea. To plan your visit to Bury St Edmunds, visit www.ourburystedmunds.com or www.visit-burystedmunds.co.uk
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SHOWING THIS APRIL
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A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM
Tues 19 – Sat 23 April
A MURDER IS ANNOUNCED
BOX OFFICE 01284 769505 BOOK ONLINE www.theatreroyal.org
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Visit our website www.insidesuffolk.com/long-melford/healthand-beauty/looking-good-feeling-better
Insidesuffolk.com is an independent marketing company based in the beautiful village of Long Melford in Suffolk. Insidesuffolk.com does not work with business associations, put simply there is no committee to argue with ! Just me and my cameraman producing quality digital media that works.
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Advertising That Works... Two Guys, one vision and a full time back office girl to keep your content up to date at all times. Find us on Facebook insidesuffolk.com for more information contact Paul Moreton at Paul@chevingtongroup.co.uk or call 07867 330993
PLANET LASER IS NOW OPEN IN BURY ST EDMUNDS... Great fun for anyone aged 6 and over!
Covering over 600sq m our laser arena is one of the biggest in the UK and Europe, spanning 5 levels! We are the first centre in the UK to install the state of the art ‘Helios Pro LaserTag System’ supporting up to 30 players. Membership allows you to track all your games history, scores and achievements and offers exclusive discounts, member nights and events!
AS WELL AS LASER TAG THERE IS PLENTY MORE TO DO .... • Mini BowlingAlley • AmusementArcade
JOIN OUR MEMBERSHIP NOW FOR ONLY £10!
• Air Hockey • PoolTable
You can even refuel and refresh in our very own Cafe Lunar after all the fun!
Keep up to date with news and special offers by following us on Facebook,Twitter and Instagram! Located behind the Fiat Desira Garage, WesternWay, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3SP
For more information or to make a booking please call the Planet Laser team on 01284 220102
. PETS PADDOCK . TRACTOR-TRAILER RIDES . HERITAGE MUSEUM . HERITAGE GARDEN . HEAVY HORSE TRAINING . CAFE
There is so much to see and do. Come and see our magnificent Suffolk Punch Horses and join us for a fascinating trip into Suffolk’s rural past. Enjoy our rare breed farm animals, tractor tours and cafe. Coach parties, groups, children's parties and conferences catered for. Please check our website for opening times and admission. Just 30 minutes from Ipswich and an hour from Colchester or Bury St Edmunds. The Suffolk Punch Trust, Hollesley, IP12 3JR I 01394 411327 I www.suffolkpunchtrust.org I info@suffolkpunchtrust.org Registered charity:charity: 1100596 Registered 1100596
What’s on in Suffolk THEATRE & SHOWS 4-Apr New Dawn Fades Acclaimed production ‘New Dawn Fades’ – a play about Joy Division and Manchester’, chronicles the rise and fall of the influential post-punk band and the suicide of lead singer Ian Curtis. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 4-5 Apr Wizard of Oz Featuring a live band, dazzling dance routines, great scenery, costumes and plenty of laughter. This Easter pantomime is the story everyone knows and loves with all new music including well known pop songs and audience participation. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 5-Apr The Best Thing It’s 1966. The record player’s on, her hair’s bobbed and eye-lashes curled. For seventeen-year-old Susan, life is an adventure waiting to begin. But what happens next turns everything upside down and its repercussions will last for decades to come. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 5-9 April Little Shop Of Horrors A charming, kooky and hilarious 1950s musical sci-fi spoof. With music by the legendary Alan Menken best known for his numerous Walt Disney film scores. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 5-Apr The Wizard of Oz - Easter Panto Join Kansas farm-girl Dorothy and her pet dog Toto on this magical adventure suitable for all ages. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 6-Apr Puss in Boots A host of puppets, a working windmill and an avalanche of fruit and nuts awaits you in this classic furry tail! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 7-Apr Ruby Wax Frazzled! A Guide to Mindfulness. A forum for discussion... An opportunity to engage in discussion with Ruby to explore further the power of mindfulness practice and how it can be applied in daily life. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 7-Apr Swing ‘Swing’ is a comedy about dancing and music and love and not settling and feeling like an eejit and being brave and having doubts and trying your best and trying new things and thinking outside the box and seeing things clearly and living as well as you can and giving
it a lash. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org
Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk
8-Apr The Importance of Being Earnest Oscar Wilde’s comic masterpiece gets The Pantaloons treatment in this anarchic take on the classic comedy of manners. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org
19-23 Apr Agatha Christie’s A Murder is Announced A complex series of relationships and events to solve the mystery of a killer… Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org
8-Apr Sword in the Stone Abracadabra! Expect magic, adventure and medieval sword duels in this spellbinding Easter pantomime. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk
21-Apr Russell Kane: Right Man, Wrong Age In this brand new show, Russell Kane unleashes another blisteringly-funny, award-winning stand-up performance about growing up, growing down, and why farts will always be funny. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO
8-Apr Sing-along-Dirty Dancing This full interactive screening of the classic film which means you too can have “The Time of your Life”. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 9-Apr Ireland’s Call Inspired by true events and spanning three decades, it follows the extraordinary journey of the strong-headed Sean Dempsey, who at the end of WW2 leaves behind his childhood sweetheart Cora and his beloved homeland Ireland, in search of a better life in the Big Apple. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 13-16 April A Midsummer Night’s Dream Four young lovers try to escape marriage matches of their parents’ design by fleeing the city for nearby woods. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 13-Apr Tell Me on Sunday Charting the romantic misadventures of an English girl in New York during the heady days of the 1980s, this iconic musical features a wonderful original score including Unexpected Song and the chart-topping Take That Look Off Your Face. Marina Theatre, The Marina Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 14-Apr Sleeping Beauty Matthew Bourne’s haunting new scenario is a gothic romance for all ages; the traditional tale of good vs evil and rebirth is turned upside-down, creating a supernatural love story that even the passage of time itself cannot hinder. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 16-Apr Omid Djalili Omid Djalili is an award-winning stand-up and an acclaimed actor. Intelligent, sometimes provocative, always entertaining, his stand-up is an energetic and captivating comedy masterclass.
23-Apr Sweeney Todd The intense horror show is brought to the stage following the story of the crazed barber returning to London to avenge his family, accompanied by a sea captain, Anthony. Anthony falls in love with the evil Judge’s ward who happens to be Todd’s daughter. Todd meanwhile sets up with Mrs Lovett, the pie maker, and provides her with fillings for her pies. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 25-30 Apr Annie Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 26-30 Apr Legally Blonde The Musical This hilarious and heart-warming show tells the story of Elle Woods, a blonde sorority queen who, dumped by her boyfriend, decides to follow him to law school to get him back. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 28-30 Apr Twelfth Night One of Shakespeare’s best loved comedies brings to the Seagull a motley collection of Dukes, shipwrecked maidens, ennobled fools, and fatuous manservants. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 29-Apr Pasha: It’s All About You On his fifth UK tour you can expect another evening of your favourite music, spectacular dancing, energy, lights and sparkling costumes, filled with positive emotions and great entertainment for
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S ON! T E TICK NOW
E SAL ED IMIT
L
CAM
ALL
ITY ABIL
IL
AVA
JIMMY’S COOK SHACK
Gennaro Contaldo - MARCUS BEAN - DJ BBQ FLORA SHEDDEN - RICHARD BURR - JACK MONROE - MATT COCKIN JON GAY - READY STEADY COOK - SAUSAGE EATING COMPETITION AND MORE TBC!
SCIENCE & NATURE TRAIL
PROFESSOR KAOS - NOISY TOYS - SAUSAGE MAKING ORWELL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY - ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS GARDENING WORKSHOPS - OPTICAL ILLUSIONS - JUNKYARD ORCHESTRA FORENSIC SCIENCE - SNAKES! - MUCH MORE TBC!
Jimmy’s Farm
Pannington Hall Lane
Wherstead, Ipswich IP9 2AR
@jimmysfarmhq
THE MAIN STAGE
PING
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REEF - NEWTON FAULKNER - Chas & Dave FLYING SEAGULLS - PEPPA PIG - CIRCUS SKILLS MR. BLOOM - ULYSSES - KILLAMONJAMBO - POLAR COLlECTIVE THE JAKE MORRELL BAND - WHITE ESKIMO - JAMES BURRAGE Company B - Tors - Adam Double - The Diabolos
WOODBRIDGE RIVERSIDE TRUST - PUPPET SHOWS - THE ART PART FACE PAINTING - ANIMAL PETTING - POND DIPPING - FISHING ANIMAL FEEDING - DEN BUILDING - BUTTERFLY HOUSE ADVENTURE PLAY AREA - HOBBIT HOUSE - GIANT BOUNCY PILLOW
THE GARDEN
FOOD & DRINK
The Coffeehouse Sessions
INCREDIBLE FOOD & CRAFT BEERS
Smitha - Two Ways Home - James Burrage - Kiera Chapman SAUSAGE TASTING COMPETITION - LOCAL FOOD & CRAFT MARKET Penny hannant - Aaron Floyd - Jake Morrell - Harry Pane SAUSAGES - WORLD CHEESES - RACLETTE - PICKLES - FRUIT JUICES Robert Castellani & More TBC WOOD FIRED PIZZA - FUDGE - ICE CREAMS - BURGERS & MUCH MORE!
Tickets on sale now!
www.jimmysfestival.co.uk
the entire family. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk MUSIC 4-Apr G4 Back For Good Tour 2016 Having recreated their take of songs such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Circle of Life and Nessun Dorma, they also proved they can tackle the latest chart-toppers including Let It Go, Happy and Uptown Funk in their own inimitable style. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 7-Apr Dominic Kirwan One of Ireland’s most popular recording artists covering a vast range of styles. Dominic takes a refreshingly new look at the finest country, pop and traditional Irish music, complimented with his show-stopping ballads sung in his rich, distinctive voice. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 7-Apr Some Guys Have All The Luck Marking Rod’s 70th birthday year in 2015, Paul Metcalfe delivers an authentic and charismatic performance assuming the persona of this legendary singer-songwriter and performer right down to the last detail - from the distinctive vocals to the swaggering showmanship and sheer fun that have made Rod Stewart one of the most loved performers of all time. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH, 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 8-Apr Last Night of the Spring Proms This classical extravaganza will be full of Pomp and Circumstance, celebrating the best of British music, plus many more well-loved classical masterpieces, popular arias and Proms favourites. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 9-Apr Thank You For The Music Its all-star cast has delighted the world with Lycra-tight harmonies and superbmusicianship for longer than ABBA during their prime in the 70s and 80s. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 10-Apr Ron Sayer Jr feat Charlotte Joyce Renowned nationally and internationally on the blues circuit, he has also worked alongside such legends such as Buddy Guy, John Mayall, Walter Trout, Imelda May & Matt Schofield so a superb evening of live blues and soul is guaranteed. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk
talented instrumentalists and singers, are hugely dedicated Beatle fans, intent on recreating their individual character to an unprecedented standard. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk
and framed and unframed work for sale. The subject is not wholly marine for this exhibition rather we are focussing on the art of printmaking. Sea Pictures Gallery, Wells Lane, Clare, CO10 8NH. 01787 279024. www.seapicturesgallery.com
15-Apr RPO: Songs From the Musicals The Orchestra is delighted to be joined by outstanding vocalists Graham Bickley and Alison Jiear who will be performing pieces including Chicago’s All That Jazz, Phantom of the Opera’s Music of the Night and Memory from Cats. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk
28-Apr The River Waveney trust presents: Swifts – keeping the skies alive A Talk by Edward Mayer. An enthusiastic speaker and advocate, Edward strives to get Swifts accommodated in new buildings and protected in old ones. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org
15-Apr Viva Neil Diamond The UK’s very own ‘voice of Neil’ Bob Drury takes to the road with a brand new one-man stage show simply bursting with Neil Diamond gems! Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS 9 & 30 Apr Crafts & Gifts at The Apex Local exhibitors offer a great selection of handmade crafts and gifts at The Apex, Bury St Edmunds. A warm and friendly craft & gift shopping experience! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk
16-Apr Elo Again A dramatic taste of what the classic ELO were like in the heyday. The whole experience is a professional re-enactment of an ELO concert with a great sound reproduction light show and visual effects. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 17 Apr The Fureys Legends of Irish music & song, renowned for their hit songs ‘I will love you’ and ‘When you were sweet 16’, return to the Marina Theatre on their 2016 tour. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 20-Apr Ben Haenow With an album full of his own soul, stories and influences topped off with a 16 date UK tour; 2016 looks to be Ben Haenow’s year. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 22-Apr Super Swing Band Super Swing is a 19-piece big band celebrating the classic 1940s swing era. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 3-Apr Holy wells creative pop up art day Artists include painters and photographers with original work on the theme of Spring, for sale, excellent prices. Most members are UCS graduates. Location in the Orangery. One day only. Free entry. 10am - 3.30pm. Holy Wells Park, Cliff Lane, Ipswich, IP3 OPG
12-Apr Philippa Hanna Since the independent release of debut album ‘Watching Me’ in 2007, Philippa Hanna has grown from her roots in the Gospel scene to be one of the UK’s most engaging and inspiring songwriters. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD.01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk
13-Apr Masterpieces of Still Life Painting John Sheeran is an experienced and popular art lecturer who is much admired for the way he brings the Old and Modern Masters to life. In 2016, John is giving his Masterpiece series of illustrated art appreciation talks, in which he tackles great art thematically. There are four talks, covering portrait, still life, landscape and narrative painting from the Italian Renaissance to the present. Ipswich Film Theatre, Corn Exchange Ipswich, IP1 1HD. 07884 076950
13-Apr Cavern Beatles As ambassadors of ‘The most famous club in the world’, the Cavern Beatles bring to the stage the music that has now influenced three generations. The band’s members, as well as being
23 Apr - 6 Jun PrintworksVII A look at the art of the printmaker is one of our most popular exhibitions and as always there will be demonstrations and opportunities to talk to various printmakers. There are tools and blocks on display
9-Apr Strictly Saturdays Dump the shopping and go dancing at The Apex in the upstairs bar! Ballroom, Latin and Rock & Roll. Free - just turn up and join in! 2.30pm-4.30pm The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 10-Apr 9th Suffolk Classic Bike Show Classic motorbike show - all bikes welcome. Food, bar, raffle & auto-jumble. Entry £1. Cordell Road, Long Melford Sudbury, CO10 9EH 11-Apr Gardeners’ Question Time Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Bury in Bloom, BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time will be recording a programme at The Apex. The celebrated panel of gardening experts will be tackling the questions put to them by local gardening enthusiasts. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 20-23 Apr East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival Real Ales and Ciders from breweries and cideries of East Anglia are to be served direct from the casks at this beer festival, Wednesday 20 - Saturday 23 April! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 10-Apr Fleamarket A cache of charming and curious chattels to captivate you! Admission 50p (under 16’s free). 10am-4pm. Westleton Village Hall., Westleton, Saxmundham, IP17 3AD 01728 648277 23-24 Apr Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair An antiques and vintage fair with approx 30 dealers, held on the last weekend (Sat & Sun) of every month. Open from 9.30am-4pm. Stalls including jewellery, kitchenalia, vintage clothing and accessories and collectables. Free parking. The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX. 01449 740601 23-Apr Auction of Fine Art An auction of fine art, for viewing and auction. Mander Auctioneers, Newton 1-May Beccles Antiques Street Market Over 100 market stalls with a wide variety of antiques and collectables on offer. Beccles Town Centre
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W&M SMITH
Hopefully with April now here, the lovely bright season of spring will flourish. Before the long sunny days of summer come knocking at our doors. Here at W & M Smith the year consists of two halves, Spring to Summer, followed by Autumn to Winter.. We are still in the spring mood, but now moving towards the bridal season. Vintage and rustic is still very popular, with hessian and lace featuring strongly for invites, table centres and decorations. To bring you back to good old school days the little milk bottles are back in. They are replacing vases on the tables along with jars in all shapes and sizes. The traditional gold fish bowls and lily vases, cubes and cylinders are still stocked along with mirror tiles both round and square. Keeping the rural
theme going galvanised jugs and buckets with the ‘aged’ finish are also in fashion as are the terracotta clay flowers pots. Wooden crates seem to be in fashion being used for letter boxes, or being planted up with lavenders or herbs, and then being a central feature on the tables. With those of you with no wedding to plan but need a gift for someone who has everything then W & M Smith may have just the thing. It is worth you paying the Pightle Barn a visit. For the gardeners we have gloves, aprons, secateurs, pots and planters, labels….. Or ornaments in a wide choice of things, animals and birds, thermometers, clocks, urns, key keeps… and for the bird lovers,
feeders, bird baths, bird boxes. Then for the indoors, we stock a range of hooks for coats or dog leads, door stops, ceramic pot covers, candle sticks and holders. Another good range is the patterned umbrellas when you are caught in the inevitable April showers!! These feature, birds, dogs, cats, deer, cows etc as well as a selection for children with meerkats and monkeys. Shopping bags folded in a pouch also make a little gift and in these there are two selections, wild animals with lions, zebras, elephants or wildlife which includes blue tits, ladybirds and rabbits. Some of these even have brollies to match. The Pighlte Barn is the place to visit whatever the weather. We will always be pleased to see you….
For all those special occasions in your life...
Visit our showroom for your floral artistry and craft needs. Pightle Barn, Blacksmiths Lane, Middlewood Green, Stowmarket IP14 5EU
Printed Umbrellas
Vintage Lace
Wooden Crates
Bird Boxes
Open Monday & Thursday 10am - 7pm; Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10am - 5pm. Also selected Saturdays and Sundays 10 - 4 (please call to check)
www.wandmsmith.co.uk Tel: 01449 711014 Fax: 01449 711815
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Order a Base Plus, Base Lite, Milano or Domina Awning and you can add our motorisation pack, complete with remote control and a Sun and Wind Sensor for only £260.00! Ask for details instore.
Window Fashions
128B High St, Rayleigh SS6 7BU. Tel: 01268 778377 enquiries@blindsbyharmony.co.uk
LOWER BARN
STOVES & FIREPLACES
RAYLEIGH
ESSEX
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: For most Rayleigh is thought of as a busy modern town, but search beyond the high street names and residential streets and you’ll still be able to find its impressive history and heritage.
SHOPPING The popular shopping centre is served well by transport links, features the usual names you might expect from any large town, but yet the town is still full of traditional character. The charted weekly High Street market is held on a Wednesday, and has a history dating back to 1181. However, back to the 21st Century, locals will be pleased to know that the Marks and Spencer’s Foodhall is now open.
HIDDEN HISTORY For those keen to learn more about the historic market town, follow the Heritage Trail. The heritage locations throughout the town feature plaques. The trail can be followed by viewing a map at www.rayleighhistory.co.uk The 200-year-old windmill is also a key point of interest. Housing a museum, it is a popular venue for civil ceremonies. For more about Rayleigh’s people and heritage visit the Rayleigh Museum which opens on 9 April. Located on the High Street, it features a number of artefacts such as postcards, maps, books and more that local history group Rayleigh Through the Looking Glass have acquired over time.
FOOD & DRINK Rather than stop at one of the chain eateries for a bite to eat support local and visit Lower Barn Café on London Road. Popular with locals, the café prides itself on homemade and locally sourced produce where possible. It has recently been commended in the Essex Fine Food and Drink Awards less than a year after opening.
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Bizara Cards Bizara cards offer a fully personalised Christmas card service, Designs to suit every need!
SHOWS JUNE Sat 13th
Everybody is unique and so are we Sat 11 July Fri June a personal gift this Christmas! so19 give
Tues 16th
Remember to follow us on Instagram @bizaracardsupminsterbrentwood
Sat 20th
The Carpenters Story
Fri 19th
Dancing Queen the Concert
Sat 27th
JULY
Ultimate Elton & The Rocket Band - 7.30pm When You’re Smiling – 2.00pm The Carpenters Story – 7.30pm Dance House Presents – Catch A Rising Star – 2.30pm & 7.30pm The World’s Most Popular Musicals with The Westenders – 7.30pm
SHOWS
Dancing Queen The Concert – 7.30pm JUNE Derek Acorah – The Psychic Ether Tour Sat 13th Ultimate Elton & The JUNE 2015 – 7.30 pm Rocket Band - 7.30pm Sat 13th 97a Corbets UltimateTey Elton & The 27 crown street Mon 27th BandRoad Jethro – 7.30pm Tues 16th When You’re Smiling – Rocket - 7.30pm Brentwood, Essex Upminster, Essex 2.00pm Tues 16th AUGUST When You’re Smiling – CM14 4BA The Carpenters Story – Sat 11 July Fri 19th Fri 19 June RM14 2AH 2.00pm Fri Dancing 7th QueenChampions the Concert of Rock – The The Carpenters Story Sat 11 July Fri 19th The Carpenters Story –Queen Concert 012772302547.30pm Fri 19 June 01708221003 Supreme Sat 20th Dance House Presents Dancing Queen the Concert The Carpenters Story 7.30pm Show That’s Rocking the Fri 21 Aug Sat 29 Aug – Catch A Rising Star – Sat 20th Dance HouseNation Presents – 7.30pm Soul Legends Bublè Fever 2.30pm & 7.30pm – Catch A Rising Star – Sun 9th & 7.30pm You Are Invited to Marty Sat 27th The World’s Most Popular 2.30pm MacDonald’s Farm – Musicals with The Sat 27th The World’s Pongo’s Most Popular SHOWS Party – 2.00pm Westenders – 7.30pm Musicals with– The Starring the voices of Westenders – 7.30pm JULY Cbeebies APRIL Justin Fletcher and Nicole Davis Sat 11th Dancing Queen The Mon 27 July Sun 9 Aug JULY Jethro Pongo’s Party LDN Wrestling – Summer Concert – 7.30pm Thurs Sat 11th Friday Dancing Queen ThePASHA - It’s All About You Mon 27 July Sun 9 Aug 1st 13th - 7.30pm Derek Acorah – Showdown - 7.30pm Fri 17th Jethro Pongo’s Party Concert – 7.30pm The Psychic Ether Tour 2ndAcorah - 7.30pm THREE DEGREES FriDerek 14th Chas & Dave – 7.30pm Princes Theatre proudly supports Fri 17th Saturday – THE 2015 – 7.30 pm Friday 1st 2016 Festival The Clacton SeaApril & Beach The Psychic Ether Tour Sat 15th Freddie Starr – 7.30pm PASHA All About You on 4th- It’s & 5th July 2015. Mon 27th Sunday 3rd - –7.30pm BEAUTY & THE BEAST - StarringJethro Keith – 7.30pm 2015 7.30 pm Fri 21st Soul Legends – 7.30pm Mon 27th Jethro – 7.30pm Chegwin, Anne Hegerty & Basil Brush AUGUST Fri 28th The Dreamboys – 7.30pm Champions of Rock – The AUGUST Sat8th29th Fever – Starring Box Office: 01255 686633 Book Online: www.essex-live.co.uk Friday - 7.30pm BublèIRELANDS CALL Fri 7th Supreme Queen Concert Rickie Arthur – 7.30pm Fri 7th Champions of Rock – The www.tendringdc.gov.uk Show Saturday - 7.30pm SOME GUYS HAVE ALL THE LUCK - That’s Rocking the Fri 21 Aug Sat9th 29 Aug Supreme Queen Concert Nation – 7.30pm Soul Legends Bublè Fever Show That’s Rocking the The Rod Stewart Story Fri 21 Aug Sat 29 Aug Sun 9th You Are Invited to Marty Nation – 7.30pm Soul Legends Bublè Fever MacDonald’s Farm – Sun 9th Thursday You14th Are- 2.30pm Invited toWE’LL MartyMEETING AGAIN Pongo’s Party – 2.00pm MacDonald’s Farm – – Starring the voices of Pongo’s Party – 2.00pm Sunday 3rd April 2016 Friday 13th May 2016 Cbeebies Justin Fletcher – Starring the voices of MAY BEAUTY & THE BEAST SWAN LAKE and Nicole Davis Cbeebies Justin Fletcher Thurs 13th LDN Wrestling – Summer and Nicole Davis Saturday - 7.30pm HALFWAY TO PARADISE - BILLYShowdown FURY - 7.30pm Box Office Thurs 13th LDN Wrestling – Summer Fri 14th Chas & Dave – 7.30pm Princes Theatre proudly supports 01255 686633 Showdown 7.30pm Friday 13th - 7.30pm SWAN LAKE - Vienna Festival Lake The Clacton Sea & Beach Festival Sat 15th Freddie Starr – 7.30pm Fri 14th Chas on & Dave – 7.30pm Princes Theatre proudly supports 4th & 5th July 2015. Book Online The Clacton Seawww.essex-live.co.uk & Beach Festival Fri 21st Soul Legends – 7.30pm Saturday 14th -Starr 7.30pm– 7.30pm LA VOCE Sat 15th Freddie on 4th & 5th July 2015. Fri 28th The Dreamboys – 7.30pm Fri 21st Soul Legends – 7.30pm Sunday 29th - 7.30pm MAD ABOUT MUSICALS - Starring www.tendringdc.gov.uk Sat 29th Bublè Fever – Starring Box Office: 01255Fri 686633 Book www.essex-live.co.uk 28th TheOnline: Dreamboys – 7.30pm Gareth Gates & Michael CourtneyRickie Arthur – 7.30pm Sat 29th Bublè Fever – Starring Box Office: 01255 686633 Book Online: www.essex-live.co.uk www.tendringdc.gov.uk Sunday 29th May 2016 Rickie Arthur – 7.30pm Mon 27 July Jethro
Sun 9 Aug Pongo’s Party
www.tendringdc.gov.uk
MAD ABOUT MUSICALS
Sat 11th
SHOWSFri 17th
ADVERTORIAL
M&S Foodhall welcomes its first customers One of the largest M&S Foodhalls in Essex opened its doors on Wednesday 23 March, bringing the very best of M&S food to Rayleigh. The new 12,500 sq.ft Foodhall on Eastwood Road opened at 10am, with queuing locals keen to get their first glimpses of the new store. The Foodhall was officially opened by a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony with the Store Manager, Mike Humphreys, and his team of 75 employees. The new store features over 6,300 food and drink products, including a wide selection of everyday essentials such as seasonal fresh produce and everything you need to create a show-stopping feast. Store manager, Mike Humphreys commented: “I’m thrilled to welcome Rayleigh’s community into our new store. It has been great to hear customer feedback on our extensive food offering, as well as our new Convenient Gardner range. I look forward to welcoming even more new customers over the coming weeks.” Throughout the opening day, customers were able to sample the delights of the bakery, including M&S’s eight delicious varieties of hot cross buns – the Belgian Chocolate and Toffee Fudge flavour was a particular favourite with customers. The new store features an extensive Bakery, which offers a range of speciality breads, pastries and cakes freshly baked in-store each day. Local resident Leigh Day was one of the first customers through the door. She said: “It’s a great addition to our high street – it’s going to have a positive impact on both residents and local businesses. I’m really pleased M&S has opened in Rayleigh as it will bring people back into the town to do their shopping.” M&S Rayleigh’s chosen charity of the year, Hopeworx, was in store to showcase some of the work it does locally. Mike and his M&S colleagues will be supporting the charity through both fundraising
IMAGE: Barbara Cook was the first customer through the checkout
and volunteering over the year ahead, as part of M&S’s Plan A commitments. M&S Rayleigh, located on 12 – 24 Eastwood Road, Rayleigh, SS6 8JQ, is open Monday – Saturday from 8am to 8pm and 10.30am – 4.30pm on Sundays.
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Get back to the life you love. Skip the wait and get the private hospital treatment you need with the option to pay for yourself at Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital. With no time limit on aftercare*, you’ll get all the support needed to help you live the life you love. It’s all part of our unique Nuffield Health Promise to you.
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* Where necessary, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required. Where a prosthesis is required for your procedure, this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s expected prosthesis lifetime. Clinically required indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of your condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of your procedure. The Nuffield Health Promise applies for patients paying for themselves and excludes fertility services.
What’s on in Essex THEATRE & SHOWS 3-Apr Beauty & The Beast Prepare yourself for an all-singing, all-dancing, laugh a minute ride through the fun and frolics of panto land. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633 www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 6-9 Apr Legally Blonde College sweetheart and homecoming queen Elle Woods doesn’t take no for an answer. So when her boyfriend dumps her for someone ‘serious’, Elle puts down the credit card, hits the books, and heads for Harvard Law School! Book tickets now for this smash-hit show. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 7-Apr Tosca This traditional production is a heady mixture of true love, torture and treachery, with two of the best roles for tenor and soprano, plus a truly blood curdling villain. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 8-Apr Champions Of Magic Join five of the World’s top illusionists for a spectacular night of mystery that’ll keep you guessing for a long time to come. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 8-23 Apr Clybourne Park The swinging sixties are just around the corner as a black family move into a suburban white enclave, triggering all too predictable mutterings from the neighbours. Fifty years on, we return to the same house in 2009 as gentrification sets in and the roles are reversed. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk
Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 13-24 Apr Chitty Chitty Bang Bang One of the world’s favourite musicals, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will have audiences of all ages flying high with its mixture of madness, intrigue and exuberance. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 15-16 Apr Hamlet - Who’s There? The story unfolds over one night in one house on the evening of Hamlet’s mother’s wedding; by dawn only a gravedigger is left alive. The unfathomable grief and questionable sanity of a young man whom even his closest family is unable to help, reveals a perfect storm of tragedy. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 16-Apr Codebreakers: The Story of Enigma Dr Mark Baldwin presents a new show about one of WWII’s most fascinating stories, the Allied Codebreakers, who deciphered vast numbers of secret messages and hastened the Allied victory, despite Germany’s ingenious ciphering machine - Enigma. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 17-Apr Love & Life This sophisticated cabaret evening exploring love, relationships & life with all it’s endeavours, will bring you songs from hit Broadway musicals. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk
11-Apr Lost in Blue ‘Lost in Blue’ is a funny, uplifting, poignant and at times wonderfully bizarre one-woman show. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk
19-23 Apr The Winter’s Tale Part drama, part comedy and part romance, Shakespeare’s ‘The Winter’s Tale’ has it all. Full of surprises, this most quirky of Shakespeare’s plays includes songs, dances and even a bear! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 20-Apr Julian Clary - The Joy of Mincing ‘The Joy of Mincing’ is Julian Clary’s celebration of 30 years as a camp comedian. There is so much to tell you; the ups and downs of his sordid love life, the true and heart stopping account of how he saved Dame Joan Collins’ life, and don’t start him on the perils of his DIY electrical home enema kit. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk
12-16 Apr It Runs in the Family ‘It Runs in the Family’ is farce at its funniest, spinning deliriously out of control and tickling the funny bones in traditional Ray Cooney fashion.
20-23 Apr Romeo & Juliet William Shakespeare’s beautifully tragic story of young love in the midst of a family feud. Brentwodd Theatre, 15 Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG
10-Apr Rapunzel From the Emmy award-winning team behind the mega-hit television series, Friends, comes Rapunzel, an exciting musical perfect for all the family! West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk
01277 200305. www.brentwood-theatre.co.uk 21-23 Apr The Gruffalo’s Child Tall Stories Theatre Company returns, bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning sequel to life in this magical, musical stage adaptation. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 22-Apr Keith Barry: Brain Hacker Using a combination of mind control, deception, mentalism and hypnotism Keith hacks the brains of his audience to unlock a safe, move inanimate objects, enter into the world of the paranormal and even perform surgery by hand. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 22-Apr Kindly Leave the Stage The show is a celebration of fun, mayhem and thespian mischief and is of a similar format to ‘Noises off’ a play within a play. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY 01376 556354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com 25-Apr The Birthday Party A shabby boarding house in a small English seaside town. An elderly couple take care of a solitary guest, who rarely ventures out. The arrival of two enigmatic strangers seems to offer a welcome distraction from their mundane existence. But when an impromptu, seemingly innocent birthday party abruptly turns into a deadly game of cat and mouse, there are horrifying repercussions. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 25-Apr Ireland’s Call The producers of the Essence of Ireland bring you an uplifting musical, bursting with dance, that follows the story of a man who leaves Ireland, and his childhood sweetheart, to go in search of a better life. Songs include Galway Girl, Tell Me Ma, I Loved Her First, Irish Rover and more. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 28-Apr It’s My Lie Anyway! A two act comedy special. Audience participation required, calling out suggestions during Whose Line Is It Anyway? and providing written suggestions before entering the auditorium. Brentwodd Theatre, 15 Shenfield Road Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305 www.brentwood-theatre.co.uk 29-Apr The Best Thing Step into the wordless world of Vamos Theatre for this bitter-sweet story of mistaken morals and broken hearts, 45s
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INGATESTONE HALL Hall Lane, Ingatestone, Essex CM4 9NR
(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.) 16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Sunday, Wednesday and Bank Holiday afternoons (Noon – 5 p.m.) from Easter until the end of September
Chelmsford City Theatres CIVIC THEATRE & CRAMPHORN STUDIO
M&G CLASSICAL CONCERTS Orchestral Series 2015 - 2016 Chelmsford Civic Theatre
Saturday 2 April, 7.30pm
ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN Craig Ogden - Guitar
Adults - £7 * Pensioners - £6 Children (over 5) - £3
Pergolesi Puccini Vivaldi Arnold Britten
Guided tours available for groups at other times by prior appointment.
SPECIAL EVENTS IN APRIL 19th April - ARBUTUS MUSIC WORSHOP 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Booking: 01708 688572 30th April - Concert: JACKIE PITTMAN & FRIENDS 7.30 p.m. Booking: 07455 760135
For more information, see our website:
www.ingatestonehall.com
Tel. 01277 353010
Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk
Concertino For String Orchestra Crisantemi Guitar Concerto in D Guitar Concerto Simple Symphony
BALLET CENTRAL Friday 15 April 7.45pm Civic Theatre A sparkling programme of ballet, neoclassical, contemporary and narrative dance
Office: Box Office:Box 01245 60650501245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres
EASTERN ROOTS presents...
A HISTORY OF
WORLD PREMIERE “Bold, inventive dance... an adventure in Hip Hop”
‘The Places / The Faces’ “An g interestin the insight to us m ical county’s heritage”
THE STAGE
EXHIBITION
Includes: Vintage Jazz Magazines, Jazz Records, Framed Jazz Images, Books and Nat Gonella’s Trumpet.
Feb 27th – May 1st 2016 Chelmsford Museum, Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street, Chelmsford CM2 9AQ
- 01245 605700
Admission FREE
FagIn’s TWIsT AvAnt GArde dAnce FRI 29 & saT 30 aPRIL | 7.30PM £12, £9 cOncEssIOns
For info contact Tony on 07966 390 802 or email tony@easternroots.co.uk
and beehives, where sexual revolution proves a hard and rocky path to tread Cramphorn Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG, 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 30-Apr Stig of the Dump It is nearly 50 years since Stig and Barney’s adventures first saw the light of day but this timeless children’s classic remains as charming and entertainingas ever. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
or Nothing at All, 50s swing favourites including Come Fly with Me, and the iconic anthems My Way and New York New York. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk
30-Apr Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat A colourful spectacle full of great songs a show that the whole family will love. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com
15-Apr Islands in the Stream Celebrating the queen and king of country, Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk
MUSIC 2-Apr Killer Queen All the greatest Queen anthems performed with expert musicianship and extraordinary energy in a phenomenal portrayal of the world’s greatest band. Superb sets, outrageous outfits and terrific special effects – just like Queen themselves. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 9-Apr Rick Astley Rick Astley is a talent whose career has spanned over 28 years. Rick Astley has sold in excess of 19 million records and has a string of 8 consecutive top 10s under-his-belt. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 9-Apr Some Guys Have All The Luck A brand new show celebrating the career of one of rocks greatest icons, Rod Stewart. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 9-Apr The Bohemians Internationally renowned Queen Tribute band The Bohemians take you on a high energy roller coaster ride of a concert, featuring the back catalogue of one of the world’s most popular and iconic rock acts of all time. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 9-Apr Richard Digance Richard Digance is a rare performer in that he’s respected by comedians for his original material and by musicians for being an accomplished performer/ guitarist. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY 01376 556354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com 10-Apr The Simon and Garfunkel Story Direct from its success in London’s West End, a sold out UK tour and standing ovations at every performance, The Simon & Garfunkel Story is back! Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 10-Apr Frank Sinatra - His Way! The remarkable life of Frank Sinatra as performed by award-winning singer Robert Habermann. We start with the 1940s pop idol and journey through decades of song – including first hit All
14-Apr We’ll Meet Again All the great songs and music of the war years leaving everyone with a warm and sentimental glow. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre
22-Apr D’Ukes Live The band is an exciting mix of singers, ukuleles and a hint of percussion! The music is an eclectic A to Z: anything from Amy Winehouse to Radiohead via Johnny Cash, Coldplay, Deep Purple and Disney. If it’s a good song D’Ukes will take it apart, rebuild it and ‘Uke it up! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk
3,6,10 & 24 April Operating Day with Steam One or more Steam locomotives operating. This may also include Heritage Diesel Trains. Entrance Price: Adults £9, Seniors £7, Child £5 or Family £28. Colne Valley Railway, Castle Hedingham, CO9 3DZ 9-10 Apr Colchester Town and Country Show The dog & duck show, living history, The Suffolk Punch Heavy Horse display team, ferret racing, children’s farm and Devilstick Peat childrens’ entertainer, have-a-go Totally Terriers display team, bottle feeding lambs & Kids and Goat Show, miniature ponies display and birds of prey flying display. Lower Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1EW. www.oakleighfairs.co.uk/colchester 9-Apr Barleylands Farmers Market Enjoy picking up delicious food and handmade treats for the weekend from our Farmers’ Market. This is a great opportunity for you to buy local handmade goods from farmers and small businesses. Free entry and free car park. 8.30am – 12.30pm. Barleylands Farm, Billericay CM11 2UD
13-Apr Spring Talks at the Martello Tower : Manningtree Witch Trials Author and storyteller Jan Williams will talk about the terrible witchcraft trials in Manningtree in 1645. find out what really happened ot the accused women and Matthew Hopkins himself. 11am. Jaywick Martello Tower, The Promenade, Belsize Ave, Jaywick CO15 2LF. 01255 822783. www.jaywickmartellotower.org 16-Apr Essex Jailbreak 2016 The Essex Jailbreak is a race against time to get as far as possible from 23-Apr Illegal Eagles HM Prison Chelmsford in just 15 hours, The Illegal Eagles are the World’s Official without spending any money or breaking No.1 Eagles tribute. Princes Theatre, the law! Creative, fun, challenging and Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea always an adventure! Chelmsford CO15 1SE. 01255 686633 . www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes 29 Apr - 2 May Essex Craft and Design Theatre Show Artists, designer makers and craftsmen ARTS & EXHIBITIONS will be showcasing and selling the very 1-30 Apr Black Tie best in fine art, photography, jewellery, A celebration of stunning Black Tie suits, ceramics, textiles and many other conevening wear and accessories through temporary crafts. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, the ages, including a silky celebrity Chelmsford, CM3 8ET. number. Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria www.essexcraftanddesignshow.com Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6 01702 434449. AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES www.southendmuseums.co.uk 2-Apr Maldon Antiques and Collectors Fair 1-23 Apr Taking Stock 9am – 4pm. Free admission. First This exhibition is composed of North Saturday every month. Refreshments House Gallery owner/director Penny available. The Quaker Meeting Hall, Butt Hughes-Stanton’s personal collection of Lane, Maldon, CM9 7HD prints, drawings, paintings and sculpture gathered incrementally over the last 10-Apr Vintage, Antique and Retro nineteen years. Taking Stock refers not Fair only to the need to jump off the merryAntiques Fair with stalls in the museum go-round of monthly shows for a time, and marquee. Museum of Power, but also to the fact that with her main Langford, CM9 6QA. 07519 276507 passion being for prints, she is able to sell duplicates from stock or, in the case 17-Apr Antiques & Collectables Fair of singular works, similar pieces from her A chance to do some browsing and favourite artists. North House Gallery, bargain hunting. 10am - 4pm. Entry £1. The Walls, Manningtree, CO11 1AS The Bell Hotel, High Road, Epping, 01206 392717. CM16 4DG www.northhousegallery.co.uk 23-Apr The Rubettes featuring Alan Williams An Evening With Original Rubettes Alan Williams, John Richardson and Mick Clarke as they play the hit’s and tell ‘like it was’. Accompanied by Steve Innes Etherington West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk
3 Apr - 30 Oct A Modern Sensibility Great Bardfield and other artists including Ravilious, Bawden, Rothenstein, Vaughan from the North West Essex Permanent Collection. The Fry Art Gallery, Saffron Walden, CB10 1BD. 01799 513779. www.fryartgallery.org
30-Apr Essex The Curiosity Fair Antiques and Collectables 10am-4pm. Twenty stalls with a mixture of vintage, antiques, crafts and collectables. £1 entrance. Saffron Walden Friends meeting house, High Street Saffron Walden, CB10 1AA
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ELY’S EEL DAY Part of Ely’s Eel Festival Weekend
Saturday 30th April Procession around the Eel Trail starts at 10.30am from Cross Green (next to the Cathedral) - all welcome
Followed by activities in Jubilee Gardens from 11 am to 4.30 pm including:
World Eel Throwing Competition, Annual Town Crier Competition, Living History Encampment, Arena Events, Children’s Activities, Folk Music, Dancing, Side Stalls, Real Ales Tent and a Variety of Refreshments including Eel! For further information and details of other fringe events happening across the Eel Festival Weekend www.visitely.org.uk @visitely
East Cambridgeshire District Council
This event is part of
Ely’s Eel Festival Weekend
Ely’s Food and Drink Festival
Sunday 1st and Monday 2nd May on Palace Green (opposite Ely Cathedral) 10.30 am to 4.30 pm Demonstrations in our Cookery Theatre with Celebrity Chefs
Jean Christophe Novelli Back by popular demand! Ian Cumming The Great British Bake Off finalist 2015 Jack Stein Executive Chef of the Stein Restaurants Variety of Artisan Food and Drink Producers
Fabulous range of Street Food
For more information contact Ely Tourist Information Centre Tel: 01353 662062 e-mail: tic@eastcambs.gov.uk @visitely www.visitely.org.uk
East Cambridgeshire District Council
Main sponsor
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
Are you ready for the ELY Eel Festival Weekend? Here at Eastlife we love visiting Ely at any time of year, but we especially love it during the Eel Festival Weekend. Yes, it’s that time already, get ready to enjoy the best of the region’s chefs and produce in just one weekend… From 29 April to 2 May, Ely pays homage to the humble eel and celebrates its origins for a whole weekend of eel packed fun! This quirky festival makes Ely a must for a Spring May Bank Holiday visit and here’s what’s to look forward to: Friday 29 April Launch of Eel Food Safari Running throughout the weekend, a variety of restaurants, cafés and food venues will be embracing our Eel Festival Weekend by providing special festival dishes/menus using eel or providing creative twists on the eel theme. So if you have never sampled the delights of tasting eel this is your chance! Look out for the Eel Food Safari logo or download the map at www.visitely.org.uk which shows the participating venues.
City Centre Eel Throwing Competition, 11am, Market Place Join in the fun and see Ely’s City Centre retailers and businesses battle it out to be crowned ‘City Centre Eel Throwing Business of the Year’, sponsored by the Ely Chamber of Commerce. Saturday 30 April Eel Day, 10.30am to 4.30pm, Jubilee Gardens Celebrating over 10 years of this festival, the annual Eel Day Parade begins at 10.30am from Cross Green (adjacent to Ely Cathedral). Ely’s ‘Ellie the Eel’ will be heading the carnival inspired procession along part of the City’s Eel Trail Heritage Walk – everyone is welcome to join in! Ely’s Samba Band will lead the parade down to the Waterside into Jubilee Gardens where a whole host of eel related activities will be held. Special highlights include the Town Criers’ Competition where the city’s own Town Crier, Avril Hayter, arranges for over 15 Criers to descend upon Ely to add their finery and bell ringing to the event. Next up is the World Eel Throwing Competition (no eels will be harmed in this competition, just stuffed toys). This fun activity is open to all ages. Can you beat the World record of 17 meters? There will also be a full programme of arena events and lots of side stalls in Jubilee Gardens including folk music, eel pottery workshops, historical displays and re-enactments, music and dancing performances with lots of family participation opportunities. Obviously it wouldn’t be Eel Day without the opportunity to sample what was once a staple food in the Fens, so this is your chance to taste smoked and jellied eels as well as more conventional forms of food.
Image credit: East Cambridgeshire District Council
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• CYCLES • TOYS • MODELS • DIY • CRAFT
Your local computer experts
MORE THAN THAN MORE MORE JUST JUST A JUST A BIKE BIKE SHOP SHOP SHOP ELYʼS BIGGEST BIGGEST ELYʼS DEPARTMENT STORE ELY’S BIGGEST DEPARTMENT STORE Family run run shop shop established established 40 40 years years Family DEPARTMENT STORE 7 Market Street • Ely • CB7 4PB 7 Market Street • Ely • CB7 4PB
Family run shop
01353 663131 •40www.citycyclecentre.com 01353 663131 established years
PC and Laptop Repairs l New and Refurbished computers l Virus removal and diagnostics l Ink Cartridges l
55 Market Street, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 4LP
www.elycomputers.co.uk
7 Market Street, Ely CB7 4PB
01353 663131 www.citycyclecentre.com
CHILDREN, FAMILY & PET PORTRAITS WEDDINGS - LANDSCAPES COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY
CABINET MAKERS RESTORATION FURNITURE AND GIFTS
12 Chequer Lane, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4LN 01353 659005 / 666772 38, MARKET STREET, ELY, CAMBS. CB7 4LS 01353 776267 WWW.IANSTACEYPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
www.interiorsofely.co.uk
Sunday 1 - Monday 2 May, 10.30am to 4.30pm, Food and Drink Festival, Palace Green Now in its third year, this year the Food and Drink Festival is better than ever, with more artisan traders, an expanded street food scene and some amazing celebrity chefs demonstrating in in the Cookery Theatre. On Sunday the Cookery Theatre welcomes Cambridgeshire’s very own Great British Bake Off finalist in 2015, Ian Cumming. Known for his creativity, you can be sure Ian will be providing a show stopper so have your camera ready! In addition, Jack Stein, Executive Chef of the Stein Restaurants, will be joining the festival from Padstow so expect a great fish dish. On Monday, back by popular demand, the Festival welcomes Jean Christophe Novelli, who went down such a storm at last year’s event. Jean Christophe
will once again be charming the crowds with his charisma and French cuisine. There will also be a strong line-up of local chefs and food experts providing an entertaining two days of demonstrations. The artisan, specialist food and drink traders will be housed in the main Food Hall with larger producers making up the Food and Drink Market. The Street Food Place, comprising of a range of culinary delights will tantalise your taste buds with their unusual yet exquisitely put together combinations. Further entertainment will be available throughout the city with the Bumper General Market being held in Market Place. With added children’s entertainment and many of the shops opening especially for the weekend, Ely will be buzzing! For further details visit visitely.eastcambs.gov.uk
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STEPHEN MURFITT
CERAMICS
Weddings, Conferences, Exhibitions, Theatre & Live Music Events
CAMBRIDGESHIRE POTTER will be exhibiting in Oxford and the New Forest this spring.
Weddings, Conferences, Exhibitions, Theatre & Live Music Events Stephen Murfitt from
Wicken will be exhibiting new work at the Junction Gallery, Woodstock from March 5th until April 28th and at the Ytene Gallery, Brockenhurst, from March 25th to April 7th 01353 662633
www.themaltingsely.org.uk Ship lane, Ely, CB7 4BB
For more information contact Stephen on: 01353 721160 | t.murfitt@sky.com
www.stephenmurfitt.co.uk
the
Maltings E LY
R I V E R S I D E
01353 662633 - www.themaltingsely.org.uk Ship Lane, Ely, CB7 4BB
VISIT ELY CATHEDRAL ‘One of the Medieval Wonders of the world’ Acknowledged as one of the most inspiring Cathedrals in Europe, this magnificent building offers daily tours and tower tours. Located only 15 miles from Cambridge. Open daily from 7am
www.elycathedral.org
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Save £5 per person with our Diner Deal voucher Here at Peterborough Greyhound Stadium we place great emphasis on providing an extremely fun night out for people of all ages, and all sorts of budgets! Whether you’re visiting us for a birthday, hen or stag doo, anniversary celebrations or a work night out - we promise you will be in for a fantastic evening. Simply visit www.peterboroughgreyhounds.com to download your Diner Deal voucher or call us on 01733 296939 and we will be happy to send one via email.
Bollinger Dinner
Afternoon Tea
The Perfect Ladies’ Ladies’Lunch Lunch
Amateur Boxing
Feast of Champions AA Feast Champions
Thursday 23rd June
Friday 24th June
Saturday 25th June
£20
£15 - £25
Sporting Heroes’ Heroes Dinner Sporting Dinner
Fine Dining
Wednesday 22 June nd
£50
£50
White Collar Boxing Fight Night With with aa Difference
Catwalk Cambridge Presented by House of iKons
Saturday 25th June
Sunday 26th June
£25 - £35
£15 - £25
Furlong TheThe FinalFinal Furlong Dinner
Racing Dinner Racing Tips Dinner in Association with Newmarket Racecourse
Wednesday 29th June
£35
NoNo Punches HeldHeld Here Punches
B2B Exhibition
Roar With Laughter
Down to Business Business
Comedy Night
Partnered with Newmarket Festival
Thursday 30th June Free to attend
Friday 1st July
Saturday 2nd July
£25
The Midas Touch Ball £65 -£85
Partnered with:
Raising funds in support of: Arthur Rank Hospice Charity
making every moment count
To find out more and to buy tickets visit
All events hosted at
www.thecambridgeroar.co.uk or call 01223 378 111
TOWER TOURS PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL
APRiL – OCTOBER 2016 SELECTED SATURDAyS, SUNDAyS, WEDNESDAyS
n Scale the heights n See the views n Get inside the architecture £10 (£8) adults, £5 children (10+ only)
“Quite possibly the best tenner I’ve ever spent” Tower tour visitor 2014
BOOK NOW...
Check dates and book online at www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or call 01733 452336
CambridgeRoar /thecambridgeroarltd
What’s on in Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 2-16 Apr The Wedding Singer ‘The Wedding Singer’ takes us back to a time when hair was big, greed was good, collars were up, and a wedding singer might just be the coolest guy in the room. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com
EDITOR’S CHOICE
12-16 Apr Of Mice and Men John Steinbeck’s powerful play, exploring the American spirit, is a heartbreaking testament to the bonds of friendship. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com
4-9 Apr Footloose The legendary 80s musical ‘Footloose’ returns to the stage, starring Gareth Gates and Maureen Nolan. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 4-Apr Beauty and the Beast - Easter Pantomime Spectacular! Beauty lives a provincial life with her father. Her world is shaken when a terrifying Beast takes her captive and the evil Enchantress holds her kingdom to ransom. Now it is up to the village idiot, his mother and the mysterious Fairy Tale to save the day. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 5-9 Apr Singin’ in the Rain A love story, unforgettable songs, toe-tapping dance numbers and memorable characters will entertain the entire family in the Pied Pipers’ production of this spectacular musical comedy. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 5-9 Apr Hairspray Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with a big ‘do and a big heart has an even bigger dream – to dance on TV. She wins a spot on the Corny Collins Show and becomes an overnight sensation. Can Tracy beat the evil Amber to be crowned Miss Hairspray? Can she integrate Corny’s show and win the love of teen heartthrob Link Larkin, all without denting her ‘do? The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough PE3 8DX. 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 8-Apr Craig Campbell This internationally acclaimed comedian is one of stand-ups most charismatic and inventive performers with hilarious tales of globetrotting adventure never failing to impress (one expectant mother laughed so hard her waters broke!). The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 8-9 Apr Two Ghost Tales After the success of last year’s sixties extravaganza ‘I’m Backing Britain,’ two deliciously creepy ghost tales from award-winning local playwright Sean Lang. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 1962320 www2.anglia.ac.uk
warning of the attack. Was Coventry sacrificed for the greater good? Or to provoke and hasten America’s entry into the war? ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com
Byard Art Exhibition of International Artists 28 April – 29 May 2016 Independent contemporary art gallery Byard Art will be exhibiting work by ten artists whose international roots have inspired their practise. This exhibition on King’s Parade gives the gallery an opportunity to raise the profile of their international artists by bringing their work directly to your doorstep in Cambridge. This eclectic collection of artists from France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Denmark and America can only be seen at Byard. 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. Tel: 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk 11-12 Apr Dalloway This adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s celebrated map of hearts, minds and memories offers a compellingly feminine response to the aftermath of the First World War. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 1962320. www2.anglia.ac.uk 12-Apr Paradise Lost Here is a re-telling of the story of the beginning of everything inspired by Milton’s epic poem Paradise Lost, told through words, music and the easily misunderstood medium of dance. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 12-16 Apr One Night in November Following the story of one family’s harrowing experience of the Coventry Blitz, ‘One Night in November’ examines the idea that Winston Churchill had advance
17-Apr Giselle (Live Screening) Giselle is the quintessential Romantic ballet. It transformed the dance world when it was first performed in Paris in 1841 and remains at the centre of the classical repertory. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 19-23 Apr The Two Gentlemen of Verona The play follows the romantic fortunes of Valentine and Proteus as they use divergent means in pursuing the objects of their affection, one of whom inevitably ends up disguised as a boy. Throw in an overprotective father, a band of banished outlaws, a misbehaving mutt and more verbal virtuosity than you can shake a spear at and you have all the ingredients for a riotously entertaining evening at the theatre. ADC Theatre, Park Street Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com 20-23 Apr H.M.S. Pinafore From the same team that brought you the award-winning The Pirates of Penzance comes Sasha Regan’s all male H.M.S. Pinafore by Gilbert and Sullivan. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 21-Apr That’ll Be The Day 2016 The nations favourite rock ‘n’ roll variety spectacular features a fantastic line up of knock-out hits from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus more side-splitting comedy! The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 21-23 Apr Wave ‘Wave’ is a vibrant multi-sensory play, developed for young people with profound and multiple learning disabilities and/or on the autistic spectrum plus their companion. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 25-30 Apr Cambridge Drama Festival 2016 A feast of short plays; tragedy, fantasy, history, drama, comedy, social com-
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mentary and maybe even Shakespeare, brought to you by a variety groups from in and around the region. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 1962320. www2.anglia.ac.uk 27-Apr Smoke and Mirrrors Calculating the stocks of our emotional economy, ‘Smoke and Mirrors’ weaves acrobatic exploitations and high-flying distortions to examine the contorted state of America in the pursuit of happiness. The Junction, Clifton Way Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 27-Apr Stones in His Pockets A quiet Irish village community is turned upside down with the arrival of a Hollywood film crew, looking for the ‘real’ Ireland for their latest schmaltzy blockbuster. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 28-Apr Swan Lake presented by The Vienna Ballet One of the best know love stories, performed by the ever popular Vienna Festival Ballet. Lavish costumes, stunning scenery, international stars and the glorious music. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 29-Apr Comedy Live: Gareth Richards A brand new strand of stand-up comedy evenings, presenting some of the very best up and coming acts on the scene! Perfect for couples, groups of friends and colleagues, Comedy Live provides a stylish, cabaret setting whilst enjoying pre-ordered refreshments from our Grub & Glug menu. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge CB2 3QE. 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk MUSIC 6-Apr The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain The world renowned all-singing, all-plucking superstars return with their toe-tapping music, hilarious banter, and sheer superlative entertainment. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 7-Apr Rodgers & Hammerstein Songbook An international cast present a spellbinding homage to Rodgers & Hammerstein. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 8-Apr The Billy Joel Songbook performed by Elio Pace and his band All the greatest hits from the Piano Man himself. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 8-Apr The Truth The band are a thumping Hammond-driven five piece that blends soul, pop and rock like no one else! The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 9-Apr Lee Memphis King 2016 Lee Memphis King, Europe’s most successful Elvis Presley tribute artist presents the ultimate tribute to the King celebrating the epic career of this musical legend. Key Theatre,
Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 12-Apr The Cat Empire This is a band that makes music that people want to dance to – and as such, music lovers from all over the world discovered The Cat Empire at that festival, spreading the Empire gospel worldwide. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 14-Apr Academy of Ancient Music Directing from the harpsichord, Richard Egarr explores the cross-continental connections of this incredibly fruitful age in concertos embracing the violin, recorder, oboe, horn and trumpet. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184. www.westroad.org 14-Apr Matt Ridley ‘Metta’ Quartet Matt is one of the most versatile, creative and hard-working bass players on the UK scene. Following their hugely successful debut album Thymos (2013) the band are currently touring to support the follow-up Metta. Hidden Rooms, 7b Jesus Lane, Cambridge, CB5 8BA 01223 514 777. www.cambridgejazz.org 17-Apr Ruby Turner Join Ruby for a night of fantastic music from her career. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 21-Apr Piano Recital by Jill Crossland Jill Crossland is a familiar visitor to Peterborough Cathedral as part of our Summer Recitals series. Her recording of the complete Bach’s Well Tempered Clavier for Signum Classics is described in the Penguin Guide as “a remarkable achievement, ranking with the finest.” Peterborough Cathedral , Peterborough PE1 1XS. 01733 355315. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk 22-Apr Arrival: The Hits of Abba This high energy show features the vast catalogue of hits loved by many generations including ‘Mamma Mia’, ‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Waterloo’, ‘Super Trouper’, ‘Voulez Vous’, and many more -bringing to life the extraordinary songwriting talents of Benny and Bjorn. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 22-Apr Newton Faulkner Since his debut #1 album Hand Built By Robots in 2007, featuring hit single Dream Catch Me, Faulkner has released three further Top 10 selling albums, including the #1 Write In On Your Skin in 2012. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 8 Apr - 31 Dec Being Modern: Kettle’s Yard at the Fitzwilliam Museum Works by artists who sought to make a new art responding to the modern world are brought together in this second display from Kettle’s Yard. The display re-unites for the first time, paintings and sculptures by pioneering modern artists who are represented in both collections. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223
332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 19 Apr - 2 May Peterborough Embroider ers’ Guild Exhibition : Fantastitch An exhibition of textile art created by members of the Peterborough branch of the Embroiderers’ Guild, including pieces inspired by the Cathedral. Guild representatives will be at the exhibition from 10am until 4pm during the exhibition. Free entry. Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough, PE1 1XS. 01733 355315 www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk 22-Apr Poets in Conversation - A Night with Mark Grist and Hollie McNish Mark Grist and Hollie McNish come together as a double-bill! Mark Grist is a poet; performer and teacher based in Peterborough and writes poems and live shows that tour all over the world. Stamford Arts Centre, 27 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DL. 01780 763203. www.stamfordartscentre.com 28 Apr - 29 May Exhibition of International Artists An exhibition that celebrates artists from all over the world. With artists such as Veta Gorner from Russia, Tommy Carlsson from Sweden and Antoine Josse from France we have something to offer every taste, no matter where in the world you are from! Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 4-5 & 7-8 Apr Exploring Easter: a drop-in event for families Follow the trail around the Cathedral as the Easter story unfolds and collect things to make your own Easter wristband or necklace, ending in the New Building where you can make Easter inspired crafts to take home. Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough, PE1 1XS. 01733 355315. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk 7-Apr ‘The Ups and Downs of Hills and Holes’ - Chris Gardiner A talk on the history, geology, wildlife and management of the reserve by its manager. Werrington Village Centre, Church Street, Werrington, PE4 6QE 01733 572034 14-Apr The English Country House Style: Interiors from the 18th century to the 20th century This lecture, by Melissa Gallimore, will use specific case examples to discuss how interiors have altered in line with changing tastes. The Fleet, Fleet Way, Old Fletton, PE2 8DL. 01733 767539. www.pdfas.co.uk 28 Apr - 2 May Peterborough Wildlife Festival A festival of local wildlife including events by local wildlife charities as well as Nene Park Trust. Ferry Meadows, Ham Lane Peterborough. PE2 5UU. 01733 234193 www.neneparktrust.org.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 16-17 Apr Cambridgeshire’s Hinchingbrooke House Antiques Fair Quality antiques fair set in this beautiful Tudor manor house. 40+ dealers in fine antique furniture, pictures, silver, jewellery, clocks, ceramics and more. Open 10am - 4pm, admission £3. Hinchingbrooke House, Brampton Road, Huntingdon, PE29 3BN 01379 586134
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FEATURED PROPERTY DESCRIPTION THE WATERMILL forms part of a range of most attractive Georgian Mill buildings in a stunning setting overlooking the mill-race and mill-pond yet within a mile of Burnham Market’s vibrant village centre. The current owners oversaw the restoration of The Watermill following its purchase in 2001. Their aim was to create a spacious, comfortable family home whilst also preserving the building’s heritage. Original and complementary materials have been used wherever possible; linseed paints, lime wash, pitch pine and York stone are all in evidence and the waterwheel has been fully restored. The workmanship was highly commended by the UK Federation of Master Builders upon completion. The accommodation is arranged over four floors and capitalises on The Watermill’s charming setting above the mill-stream. The ground floor provides a well-appointed kitchen with an electric AGA and a dining room looking across the mill-pond, along with a wet room, cloakroom and mill-room in which the waterwheel is located. The first floor provides two generous reception rooms, each with windows overlooking the water on two sides. The second floor consists of three bedroom suites whilst a fourth bedroom and a further substantial reception room with a partially-glazed roof section are found on the top floor. The dining room opens to a good-sized hardwood deck with glorious views across the mill-pond. Mill Farm is a small community which consists of twelve separate residential dwellings who jointly own a further 4.75 acres of amenity land consisting of water meadows and woodland. A nominal annual charge is levied by a Management Company for the upkeep of the shared land.
HISTORICAL NOTE The Mill at Burnham Overy Town was constructed c. 1737 on the River Burn and was notable as one of only two mills in Norfolk to be powered by both wind and water from the same site. Called the Union Mill as a result of this, the Mill remained in use for over 200 years adding an engine in the 20th century (as was common practice) to complement the wheel and the sails.
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PROPERTY
FEATURES • 4 Bedrooms, 3 with en-suite bathrooms • Fully functioning water wheel • Stunning river views • Decked riverside entertaining area • 4.75 Acre shared woodland/riverside amenity land
£ 1.6 Million FOR MORE INFORMATION BEDFORDS The Bower House, Market Place, Burnham Market King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 8HF 01328 730500 sarahcarringtonsmith@bedfords.co.uk www.bedfords.co.uk SAVILLS 4 Emma’s Court, Burnham Market PE31 8HD 01328 801333 burnhammarket@jackson-stops.co.uk www.jackson-stops.co.uk
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HINTON, NEAR BLYTHBURGH
GUIDE PRICE £695,000
BRAMFIELD, NEAR HALESWORTH
GUIDE PRICE £450,000
SOUTHWOLD
PRICE £2,250,000
SOUTHWOLD 01502 722065
WALPOLE, NEAR HALESWORTH
PRICE £525,000
SNAPE, NEAR ALDEBURGH
GUIDE PRICE £450,000 CARLTON PARK, NEAR SAXMUNDHAM
GUIDE PRICE £450,000
SAXMUNDHAM O1728 605511
PROPERTY
Who is renting in Cambridge? Annette Cole, Sales and Marketing Director at Crest Nicholson’s Eastern division, tells us more…
Being home to two world renowned universities – including one ranked number three on the QS World University Rankings – Cambridge has traditionally experienced a strong rental market owing to the sheer number of students in the area. Cambridge is also home to a cluster of hardware and software companies in Cambridge, with the area now commonly being referred to as ‘Silicon Fen’. Key employers in Cambridge include ARM Holdings, Microsoft and Spotify, all of which have brought in a flurry of mid-term renters to the market. What’s more, Cambridge Biomedical Campus – which encompasses Addenbrookes hospital and Cambridge Science Park – are some of the largest of their type in Europe, and continue to attract more and more individuals to the area. Cambridge City Centre itself is extremely vibrant with a rich history, and boasts a fantastic range of museums, bars and restaurants and unique local activities such as punting.
The city also benefits from a fantastic transport network, with trains into central London taking just 45 minutes on average, making it the perfect choice for renters who want to be able to commute into London for work, but avoid the hustle and bustle often associated with living in the capital.” Other rental trends The rental market in Cambridge has been further spurred on by the ongoing increase in house prices in the city – recent Hometrack data suggests these have soared 12 per cent in just one year. As a result, more and more individuals are being priced out of purchasing a property in the area, and are renting as an alternative. This is a trend that is expected to continue throughout 2016 in the Cambridge property market. Crest Nicholson currently has two developments in Cambridge, Mitchams Park and Halo. To find out more about the developments, visit www.crestnicholson.com/mitchamspark www.crestnicholson.com/halo
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HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF AN
OPEN HOUSE DAY
Homebuyers today are living increasingly busy lives, often fitting in house viewings amongst demanding weekend schedules. Statistics show that 90 per cent of searches start online, but nothing replaces the value of seeing a property for real. National estate agency Strutt & Parker suggest the ultimate solution for buyers; an Open House Day. From becoming a dream of looking online, to viewing a property in the flesh and to making an offer, open house days are a smooth and modern approach that aims to make the process easier and more accessible for homebuyers. The ability to view a home without commitment is the secret to its enduring success. Cameron Ewer, Partner at Strutt & Parker Cambridge gives his guide to what an Open House Day is and why you should consider getting involved: Q What is AN Open House Day? It’s a day when we throw open the doors of all our houses taking part, so that prospective buyers who register with us have the chance to view as many
properties as they wish, without the need to make appointments. We run Open House Days twice a year, in the spring and autumn. Q How does it help buyers? Buyers like it because of the freedom and flexibility it offers. The timesaving made through seeing a greater number of houses in one go is a huge advantage in this competitive market. The difference means that properties they have just seen remain fresh in their mind on the next viewing, putting buyers in a better position to make choices. We have had some incredible stories of people just being curious about a house and not seriously considering buying, but going on to make an offer after viewing it on Open House Day. Q How effective is AN Open House Day? We had more than 600 properties take part in our last event, with one in six receiving offers on the day, to a value of more than £80million. It has been our most successful event so far in matching buyers to the property that’s right for them, and we only see it getting better.
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Stanway, Colchester CO3 0JT
Marketing Suite Now Open Welcome to Oliver’s Grove Oliver’s Grove offers an exceptional collection of luxurious 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes situated in the well connected village of Stanway, on the outskirts of historic Colchester. Introducing a superb collection of homes from award-winning house builder Hopkins Homes. Oliver's Grove is ideally located for local facilities and offers easy access to Colchester and the A12, as well as great rail connections to London Liverpool Street, at Oliver’s Grove you won’t have to compromise. The Government backed Help to Buy* Scheme is available on all released properties along with Hopkins Homes’
Part Exchange & Help to Buy Available*
tailored Part Exchange Scheme* to help you make your dream new home become a reality.
Marketing Suite open Thursday - Monday, 10am - 5pm. For further information please call: 07435 961662
Call:
01394 446860 • hopkinshomes.co.uk
Computer generated images of Oliver’s Grove. *Subject to terms & conditions.
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