Eastlife August 2015 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

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August 2015

Living life in the East

AUGUST 2015

LEE MEAD

SPEND AN 'ENCHANTED EVENING' WITH

Make the most of where you live

WILD DAYS OUT FOR KIDS

BANK HOLIDAY EVENTS HOLIDAY ESCAPES

Issue 123

LOVE THE WATER?

CHECK OUT OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST BEACHES & THE BROADS

Success In Motion. The E-Class Saloon

Representative example E 220 BlueTEC SE with optional metallic paint 36 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement) On-the-road price Customer deposit Retailer deposit contribution Optional purchase payment

†

Amount of credit Total amount payable†† Purchase activation fee† Representative APR Fixed interest rate

£349.00 £35,515.00 £4,999.00 £5,153.26 £16,700.00 £25,362.74 £39,426.26 £10.00 6.3% 6.11%

The E-Class Saloon is designed to convince every part of you. Perfecting every demand for comfort and luxury, once on the road the real performance begins, full of agility and energy. With advanced electronic assistants keeping a watchful eye wherever you go, the E-Class presents a powerful proposition on all accounts. And now yours for just £349* per month, simply call your nearest retailer to arrange a test drive today.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 769676 Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751000 Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401100

Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900

Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307

www.robinsons.mercedes-benz.co.uk

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the E-Class range: urban 19.9(14.2)-70.6(4.0), extra urban 35.3(8.0)-76.4(3.7), combined 27.7(10.2)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 237-107 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data is

provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance on behalf of other finance companies as well. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz E-Class 220 BlueTEC SE Saloon with automatic transmission at £35,515.00 onthe-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Finance offer based on a E-Class 220 BlueTEC SE Saloon with optional metallic paint on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement, on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges may apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and retailer deposit contribution. Orders/credit approvals on selected E-Class models between 1 July and 30 September 2015, registered by 31 December 2015. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your retailer for availability. Terms and conditions apply. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 2448457 and has its registered address at Tongwell, Milton Keynes, MK15 8BA. Prices correct at time of going to print.

East Life E-Class advert.indd 1

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WELCOME TO EASTLIFE A note from the editor Dear Reader,

Emma Kemsley

Publisher Sean Thompson 01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com Publishing Consultant Paul Gibson 07775 685 209 paul@eastmag.com Editor Emma Kemsley 01954 267904 emma@eastmag.com Production Manager Craig Lewis 01954 268142 craig@eastmag.com Digital Media Manager Ben Attenborough 01954 777070 ben@eastmag.com Social Media Manager Nicole Ranaweera 01954 268142 nicole@eastmag.com Sales Manager (South Norfolk, Suffolk & Essex) Darren Marshall 07826 628680 darren@eastmag.com Area Manager (Herts, Beds & North Norfolk) Stewart Hedges 07595 894557 stewart@eastmag.com Area Manager (Cambridgeshire & West Norfolk) Jim Leishman 01954 267635 jim@eastmag.com ACCOUNTS/ENQUIRIES 01954 268129 accounts@eastmag.com HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY. Like Us on Facebook

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DOWNLOAD OUR APP on Google and Apple Stores 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.

Welcome to another exciting issue of Eastlife. This month you may have noticed that Eastlife has had a bit of a facelift. Our new sleek and stylish design is to help make it clearer to read our fabulous features and to expand our exciting app content.

Throughout the magazine you’ll see that some features have exclusive extra content, which can only be viewed by downloading our free app from Google Play and Apple stores. This means more events, inspiration and details on the go! With a click of a button you can scroll through extra family days outs, bank holiday events, restaurant suggestions and more. We’d love to hear what you think! Tell us by visiting our Facebook page or Twitter @eastmagazines OUR APP IS PACKED WITH ADDITIONAL CONTENT

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CONTENTS

CONTENTS AUGUST FEATURES NEWS 9

AROUND THE REGION - News & events

LIFESTYLE 16 INTERVIEW - Lee Mead is back on tour 21

BEACHES - Sandy & quiet hideaways

HOLIDAYS - Inspiring getaways

32 EVENTS - Bank Holiday days out

HOME & GARDEN 79 INTERIORS - Wet rooms 81

GARDEN - Top tips for hosting

PROPERTY - Add value to your home

THE SUMMER SCENE

The season’s biggest outdoor events

MOTORING LITTLE EAST 37

GO WILD - Great days out for kids

75 REVIEW - The brand new DS5

ARTS

FOOD & DRINK

ARTS COLUMN - Collette Hoefkens

47 APPETISER - News & reviews

ARTS NEWS - Gallery updates

BBQ - Tips for perfecting a BBQ

INTERVIEW - Exclusive with Mark Staples

SEAFOOD - The best fish in the region

FASHION 57 SWIMWEAR - Holiday essentials

AREA FOCUS 95 NORFOLK - King’s Lynn & the Broads 113

HEALTH

CAMBS - Explore the River Ouse

121 ESSEX - Colne Valley focus 127

BEDS, BUCKS, HERTS - Theatres,

WEDDINGS

Bishop’s Stortford & Bedford

137

SUFFOLK - Events & West Suffolk villages

55 RINGS - A guide to buying your bands

146

SOCIAL SCENE - Readers comments

61 NEWS - Beauty, cycling and more

eastlife.co.uk | 5

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Company and care creates a relaxing retirement The stress free retirement you deserve is the promise from the Woodgate Park Retirement Village at Swanton Morley, near Dereham. Spacious two bedroom bungalows are now available at this village style development which promotes independent living with care on hand if and when needed. The new bungalows build on the success of the first phase of Woodgate Park. The unique retirement village development, brought to the mid Norfolk countryside by Castlemeadow Care, is designed to deliver peace of mind for its residents. The picturesque surroundings and traditionally designed bungalows are complemented by a range of top-quality services and facilities ranging from care support to GP medical care. Each bungalow has a generous open plan living space, underfloor heating, solar panels, kitchens and bathrooms designed for easy access and comfortable bedrooms with spacious fitted wardrobes. Each has patio doors leading to a private terrace and garden, all have views across the landscaped village gardens and several have garages available too. In this retirement village the exclusive Club House is the social hub, allowing residents to dine together when they choose, meet for coffee mornings or congregate for events and activities. There is a hair salon and nail bar on site if you need a little pampering plus an award winning GP Surgery with pharmacy. The village also has an on site care home, wi-fi in communal areas, fibre optic broadband available, a dedicated care and support service, domestic help and 24/7 nurse alarm call system. The retirement village is fully wheelchair accessible, within Swanton Morley itself, with its pub, general store and Post Office, bus

service, bakery and award winning butchers. The aim at Woodgate Park Retirement Village is to ensure residents are offered just the right amount of support to help them live an active and enjoyable life, while enjoying safety, support and peace of mind. The village is within easy reach of many of Norfolk’s attractions from the shops, attractions, arts and history of Norwich to the beautiful mid and north Norfolk countryside, the stunning beaches and the Norfolk Broads with its scenic waterways and rare wildlife. For those individuals or couples who are considering downsizing or beginning to worry about coping with everyday tasks or their general well being, Woodgate Park may be the key to an enjoyable new chapter in their lives. ■

In the words of Gwyneth, a retired pharmacist and a resident of Woodgate Park. “I wanted to be able to stay in my own home, feel safe and secure and be reassured that I could rely on trained staff when I needed it. Woodgate Park ticked all the boxes for me. As a bonus I have made new friends and enjoy the social activities that take place in the Club House. I have been recommending Woodgate Park to all my friends!”

To find out more call: 01362 620016 or visit:www.castlemeadowcare.co.uk Woodgate Park, Woodgate Road, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4NU

Excitin Luxury Village

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Enjoy retirement and all it has to offer in the settled surroundings of a purpose-built village

Woodgate Park in Swanto of the beautiful Norfolk c complemented by a rang peace Independent living is supported by health care of if andmind. when neededIsn't it tim

On-site GP Surgery |

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itingExciting new new ury Luxury Retirement Retirement age in Norfolk Village in Norfolk

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Park in Swanton Morley, Derehamvillage is a charming retirement village in the heart k in Swanton Woodgate Morley, Dereham is a charming retirement in the heart of the beautiful Norfolk A selection of spacious two-bedroom bungalows are ul Norfolk countryside. A selection ofcountryside. spacious two-bedroom bungalows are complemented by a range of high quality facilities designed for comfort, enjoyment and d by a range of high quality facilities designed for comfort, enjoyment and peace of mind. Isn't it time you treated yourself to the retirement you so thoroughly deserve? .edIsn't it time you treated yourself to the retirement you so thoroughly deserve?

Now Open! view, please call to arrange an appointment. m Now Open!Showroom To view, please call toTo arrange an appointment.

To find out more call: 01362 620016 more call: 01362 620016 or visit: www.castlemeadowcare.co.uk w.castlemeadowcare.co.uk ow

Woodgate Park Woodgate Road, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4NU Woodgate Road, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4NU

eastlife.co.uk | XX

WORLD WAR II: SOLDIERS & SPIES Sun 30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mon 31 August 10.30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm Get ready to take cover as this explosive action packed bank holiday weekend propels you into wartime Britain.

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.

AROUND THE REGION

Around the Region Latest News from

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO COLCHESTER ZOO As you step inside Colchester Zoo you are transported into a world full of magnificent animals waiting to be discovered. Learn about the animals as you see them up close and watch one of many daily displays, feed the elephants and giraffes yourself and learn all about its charity Action for the Wild and its worldwide conservation work!

WIN

To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children to visit Colchester Zoo this summer visit www.eastlife.co.uk for details of how to enter.

FAMILY FUN WITH JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH There is a special treat in store for families this August when the magical and musical James and the Giant Peach plays at the Mercury Theatre Colchester from 7 to 30 August. Playing for three weeks of the school summer holidays, the story of James, his magical peach and the best and most unusual of friends a boy could have, is sure to put big smiles on the faces of adults and children alike. Tickets from £10. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

VINTAGE FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Save the date for your diary and next month be transported to a bygone era with the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity (HRCC) annual vintage fayre at Cressing Temple Barns, Essex, on Sunday 6 September. With live music,1940s style entertainment, a pop-up teashop, vintage clothing and collectables, a vehicle display and traditional activities for children including Punch and Judy shows and donkey rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Tickets: adults £5, under 16s free.

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Inclusive Breaks at Potters Resort

Nestled on the coastal border, where Norfolk meets Suffolk, Potters Resort offers year round inclusive breaks, including; Midweek Leisure Breaks, Weekends with Friends, One Night Specials with many featuring a star act, and Family Breaks for all ages to enjoy!

No matter which Break you choose, you can relaxing knowing everything is taken care of as each break price includes… ✓ Comfortable accommodation ✓ Four meals a day for each full day of your stay ✓ Sports and leisure facilities plus daytime activities ✓ Live evening theatre entertainment

Call 0333 3207 405 for more information, to book or for your FREE Entertaining Short Breaks Brochure

www.pottersholidays.com Potters Resort • Coast Road • Hopton–on–Sea • Norfolk • NR31 9BX Booking terms and condition apply. Calling us costs no more than a call to a national rate number and in many cases counts towards inclusive minutes for mobile and landline contracts.

AROUND THE REGION NORFOLK GARDEN AND DOG SHOW BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND Aztec’s hugely popular Norfolk Garden Show is set to bloom again at the Norfolk Showground from 29 to 31 August, alongside the pawsitively spectacular All About Dogs show. Whether you’re looking to create a fun space, organic vegetable plot or family friendly patio, the unforgettable three-day show will be brimming with local garden designers, landscapers and tree specialists offering expert advice. The new and improved Food and Drink Festival will be full of tasty local goodies and All About Dogs (30 – 31 Aug) will host lots of canine fun including demonstrations, games and competitions – an all round great day out! Tickets available at www.aztecevents.co.uk

ALL ABOARD FOR THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY CRUISE SHOW Independent cruise retailer, Reader Offers Ltd, will showcase the latest offerings in cruising when it opens the doors to its Cruise Show at Colchester United’s stadium on 12 - 13 August. Appealing to experienced and inexperienced cruisers alike, the show invites visitors to learn about the concept of cruising as well as the vast array of cruise holidays on the market today such as expedition and river cruising. Reader Offers Ltd’s Cruise Line partners will also be on hand to provide more specific information and answer any questions. www.readeroffers.travel/thecruiseshow2015

HISTORY INVESTIGATION DAY AT IWM DUXFORD Are you aged between 16 and 18? Do you have a passion for history? IWM Duxford are looking for students to join in an innovative and exciting History Day on Tuesday 11 August. In a day of investigation and discovery, you’ll have the opportunity to develop essential skills and put them into practice as you help to uncover the stories of the American airmen and women who came to East Anglia during the Second World War. You’ll go behind the scenes and learn how curators’ look after historic photographs before finishing the day in true American style with a game of softball and a barbecue. Places are free of charge, on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve your place, email americansummercamp@iwm.org.uk eastlife.co.uk | 11

House, Park & West Garden

Stable Yard Shops

Hatfield Park Farm

Coach House Restaurant

Pay once visit all Season! Buy a ticket to the House, Park & West Garden or West Garden & Park, have it stamped while you are here.Then you can use it for return visits to the West Garden and Park until the end of September. Terms and conditions apply.

www.hatfield-house.co.uk/payonce

House, Park and Gardens open 4th April to 30th September. 22 minute train journey from London Kings Cross. Free Parking - Sat Nav AL9 5HX

www.hatfield-house.co.uk Hatfield House - East Mag.indd 1

16/03/2015 13:51:27

AROUND THE REGION A SWASHBUCKLING SUMMER ADVENTURE AT KNEBWORTH HOUSE This month Knebworth House hosts two outdoor theatre performances. On 6 August, Illyria OpenAir Touring Theatre will take to the stage on the sunken lawn in front of the house with The Taming of the Shrew and The Three Musketeers on 13 August. Visitors are encouraged to make the most of the summer evening and bring a blanket and picnic. Gates open at 6pm and the performances start at 7pm. Tickets are £9.50 child (3-16) £13 adult, family 2a+2c £40. Pre-booking essential via www.knebworthhouse.com Free historical walks and circus lessons for Cambridge families this summer Cambridge Business Improvement District (BID) has launched a ‘Loving Summer’ programme this year to help families make the most of all the city has to offer during the school holidays. The programme, which includes a range of leisure and cultural activities, will run from Saturday 25 July to Monday 31 August. Guided walking trails, ‘Super Saturday’ which includes face-painting, balloon modeling and circus skills in the Market Square, goodie bags and ‘Summer at the Museum’, an opportunity for creative activities are all on the line up. www.cambridgebid.co.uk JOE PASQUALE ON TOUR This month comedian Joe Pasquale takes to the stage with his brand new stand up summer tour. The first stop is Britannia Pier in Great Yarmouth on 6 August and again on 20 August. The tour will also show at West Cliff Theatre in Clacton, Essex on 14 August, Palace Theatre, Southend, Essex on 15 August and the Princess Theatre in Hunstanton on 19 August. Expect fun and laughter at its best! For the full preview visit www.eastlife.co.uk Join in the fun of the Thorpeness Regatta The yearly spectacular of the Thorpeness Regatta returns on 21 August at 6pm. Popular with locals and visitors to the area, the event is a classic celebration of the British summer. You can celebrate in style at Thorpeness Golf Club and Hotel’s meare gardens and enjoy front row seats to the magical lit boat parade at dusk and fireworks at 9pm. There will also be a barbecue and live music throughout the evening. Ticket prices: £12pp, £7.50 children under 12. Tel: 01728 452176 www.thorpeness.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 13

This summer enjoy a tower tour of one of the ‘Wonders of the Medieval World’ • • • • • •

Located in the heart of Cambridgeshire Daily tours around the Cathedral and Medieval Monastic Buildings Tours up the world famous Octagon and West Tower Stained Glass Museum and Brass Rubbing Restaurant, Tea Rooms and Gift Shops A prominent film location for Elizabeth; The Golden Age, The Other Boleyn Girl, The King’s Speech and Jupiter Ascending

www.elycathedral.org (01353) 667735

is back

Big Screen

20-23 August

the parade, watford full listings at watfordbigevents.co.uk 1 14 EastLife_halfpage_FINAL.indd | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

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DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T MISS CATCH LEE MEAD in Some Enchanted Evening on Sunday 16 August at West Cliff Theatre, Clacton and Saturday 19 September at The Apex, Bury St Edmunds. For full details visit www.leemead.co.uk

DOWNLOAD THE APP for more on our exclusive interview with Lee Mead

LIFESTYLE

Enjoy an

Enchanted Evening EASTLIFE CHATS TO LEE MEAD ahead of his brand new tour He is best known as the winner of ‘Any Dream Will Do’ and more recently for his role as nurse ‘Lofty’ in Casualty, but this month Essex boy Lee Mead will be dazzling the nation with another spectacular live arena tour, ‘Some Enchanted Evening’. A celebration of the golden age of Hollywood, it’s sure to have you singing along. We caught up with the Southend born singer to find out more about the new 10-day concert and retuning to his Essex roots. HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE BACK ON THE STAGE? It feels great. I love playing to a live audience, especially when I have been away for a while. WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM ‘SOME ENCHANTED EVENING’? It’s songs from the Hollywood musical film era. Songs from shows such as Guys And Dolls, South Pacific, Swing Time, Babes In Arms, Singing In The Rain and many, many more. I also talk about the era itself, the composers and lyricists as well as my own personal take on the music. I’m very excited about it. These are songs I have wanted to sing for a few years now. WHO WILL THE SHOW APPEAL TOO? Anyone who loves music and especially those who love musicals! HOW HAVE YOU PREPARED FOR THE ROLE? My MD and I have spent between four and five months putting the show together and finding almost 40 songs that fit my voice that I connect with in some way, whether it’s happy or sad, thoughtful or reflective. We then had to whittle them down to 17, which has been very hard. WHAT CAN FANS EXPECT TO SEE FROM YOU OVER THE NEXT YEAR? Other than being on tour with my new show I’ll be filming as Lofty in Casualty during the week down in Cardiff and playing Aladdin in Panto at Christmas at the Birmingham Hippodrome alongside Marti Pellow and Julian Clary.

ESSEX YOU GREW UP IN SOUTHEND. DID YOU PERFORM AT AN EARLY AGE AT ANY OF THE TOWN’S THEATRES? I performed in two different shows in two local theatre companies. One was a 60s musical called ‘A Slice Of Saturday Night’ where I played the part of a character called Rick and I was also in the chorus of Oklahoma. Everything else was school productions, like playing Danny Zuko in Grease or charity shows. It was a fun time and at no point was I thinking it would ever become something I would do professionally. For a working-class lad from Southend that just didn’t happen. But to my surprise, it did! HOW WAS IT FOR YOU GROWING UP IN SOUTHEND? I still love going back, especially with my daughter Betsy. It’s home. I have fond memories of Peter Pan’s Playground now called Adventure Island and a lot bigger. I now take Betsy and walk along the seafront with a Rossi’s ice cream, which has been there since my parents were kids. The cockle sheds in Old Leigh or playing football at Jones Memorial ground, which have been there for many years great memories! DOES IT FEEL DIFFERENT PERFORMING IN YOUR HOMETOWN? Performing in any Essex venue has the same vibe or buzz for me. If you’re from Essex you’ll know what I mean. The people are generally very warm and very supportive and look after their own. I had a great sell out show in Clacton last year as well as the Cliffs Pavillion in Southend and the atmosphere was electric - they know how to have a good night! IS THERE ANYTHING IN PARTICULAR YOU LIKE TO DO WHILE YOU’RE TOURING THE AREA? I always like to go for a wander after soundcheck around 4pm before the gig and explore the area and have a bite to eat. Clacton Pier was a lot of fun the last time I was there. Especially in the rain with my brolly! Family HOW DO MANAGE A WORK AND FAMILY BALANCE? It’s never difficult to find time to spend with my daughter as I have always made her a priority over everything else I do in my life. She will always come first. There are short periods when unfortunately I can’t be around because of work like filming during the week in Cardiff on Casualty or away for six weeks on Panto. But weekends or any days off I’m straight in that car heading home. I’ve even been know to turn down big job offers and leads in shows on tour as it would mean being away for a year at a time. It’ll be very different when she is grown up and has her own life but these early years are so important and precious - you don’t get them back. eastlife.co.uk | 17

Country man's weekly q ualifier for the T errie and Lurc r's her's on Sunday

Flying Proms at Shuttleworth Saturday 15 August 2015

www.shuttleworth.org/flyingproms East Life August 2015 HP.indd 1

13/07/2015 08:49:22

eastlife.co.uk | 19

FREE SUMMER FUN AT CLACTON FACTORY OUTLET 6TH AUGUST 11am – 5pm TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES The TMNT will also be here as part of the Heroes & Villains activity. Catch them for a photo and some turtle power fun! They will be making appearances at intervals throughout the day between 11am-5pm.

A LL E VE NT S

FREE

6TH AUGUST 11am – 4pm HEROES AND VILLAINS WORKSHOP Join our dressing up competition in preparation for the Clacton Carnival.

12TH AUGUST 12pm – 2pm LITTLE LEGS A lovely little walk for children and their family, raising funds for Cancer Research UK and local causes.

15TH AUGUST 11am – 4pm SAM SAFARIS Rare and exotic insects, mammals, reptiles, molluscs & amphibians from around the world visit Clacton Factory Outlet with an educational twist.

19TH AUGUST 11am – 3pm TOWIE COMES TO CLACTON FACTORY OUTLET! Meet Tommy Mallet and Georgia Kousoulou from Towie. They will be signing autographs from 11am to 3pm and collecting money for Clacton Family Trust.

PLUS! Summer Fun with the Dream 100 Roadrunners! Join us on 2nd August from 12pm-3pm, plus 11th and 22nd August from 11am-2pm for more fun and games! Facepainting and Entertainers! Come along for FREE facepainting and balloon modelling on 26th and 31st August from 11am to 3pm!

For event times and more information on our full schedule of FREE summer events please contact us or visit us online

Clacton Factory Outlet, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4TL

www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk 01255 479595

FASHION OUTLETS • LEISURE STORES • PLAY AREA FURNITURE & HOMEWARES • CAFES • FREE PARKING

LIFESTYLE

A GUIDE TO EAST ANGLIA’S

BEACHES Article by Amanda French

WITH THE FANTASTIC WEATHER WE’VE BEEN ENJOYING SO FAR THIS SUMMER, there’s no need to head off to foreign shores this year. Take a trip to local beaches and discover beautiful hidden bays, amazing dunes and a real taste of the seaside with award-winning fish and chip shops. To make finding these gems even easier, we’ve pulled together a guide to some of the most hidden and beautiful beaches to visit across East Anglia. eastlife.co.uk | 21

WAXHAM, NORFOLK Waxham Beach in Norfolk is a peaceful beach, hidden away from the summer crowds. Set in a designated area of outstanding beauty, you pass trees and dunes to head out to the long stretch of sand. Not far from the nature reserve at Hickling Broad, why not make it a day trip and visit both. This is a beach for those in the know. This isn’t the more popular Waxham Sands further down the road, this is a quiet beach with beautiful views. Amenities - None whatsoever, which adds to the appeal. Parking is just along the road next to the beach. Where can we grab some food? - Waxham is a small coastal village. Simply walk up to Sea Pallings to find fish and chips at Beach Rock Fish and Chips, located on the beach road or visit The Reefs Bar (www.reefsbar.com) for traditional British food, live bands and a dog friendly place to enjoy a snack.

COVEHITHE, SUFFOLK This gorgeous beach won’t be around forever, as the North Sea gradually erodes away the area. However, this erosion has also created an amazing beach set beneath wild cliffs with a dramatically corroding church on the top. Amenities - There’s no amenities here. Park on the road and head down the path to the beach. Where can we grab some food? - Head to Southwold Harbour for some of the best fish and chips around at the famous Mrs T’s Fish and Chips. It’s just a small shack, but don’t judge a book by its cover. You’ll definitely be back!

Southwold / Paul Moreton

22 | DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY!

LIFESTYLE

SCOLT HEAD BEACH, NORFOLK Scolt Head beach is a taste of paradise on an offshore barrier island. Just under four miles long, this is a beautiful, quiet beach which is accessed via a beautiful, scenic ferry ride. Enjoy a ‘wild’ beach, which has been left to develop on its own. Amenities - A ferry runs from Burnham Overy Staithe during the summer. Check times as they vary day to day. Where can we grab some food? - Bring a picnic lunch with you. Make sure you take plenty of water, as otherwise, you’ll be grabbing the ferry back earlier than planned.

DUNWICH HEATH, MINSMERE, SUFFOLK Tucked away on the Suffolk Coast, Dunwich Heath is a wild and dramatic heath and beach. Beautiful and natural, you’ll experience a taste of the wild nature of the coast. Amenities - Tearoom serving homemade cakes and food. Plenty of parking, a gift shop and picnic area. Where can we grab some food? - Pop into the Dunwich Heath tearoom, which serves freshly made food and drinks, made on site, including breakfast dishes, sandwiches and jacket potatoes, cakes and snacks.

eastlife.co.uk | 23

08 Aug East Life General 2015 HP_107h x 148w 20/07/2015 15:28 Page 1

Hidden Treasure... ...for all to enjoy UFFORD PARK WOODBRIDGE

A warm welcome and fantastic views await you at Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa. Explore Suffolk’s beautiful countryside, and return to relax in our lovely, family run hotel which has so much to offer. Golf breaks from only £89 per person* Spa breaks from only £93.50 per person* 4 night inclusive breaks from only £299 per adult* • Stunning views over 120 acres of parkland

• • • • • • • • •

Food served all day, or just pop in for a coffee Afternoon tea Sunday lunch 18 hole, par 71 award winning golf course 2 storey driving range Thermal suite spa Health club (swimming pool and gym) 2 mile trim trail Dogs welcome * Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability.

t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW

New for 2015

Shark Encounte

2 FOR 1 ENTRY!

1. This voucher entitles the holder to one FREE ENTRY provided that each voucher holder is accompanied by a separate full paying standard individual or adult. This voucher is not valid for use in conjunction with any other offer, concession or online/call centre booking. This voucher has no cash value. This voucher is automatically void if sold, offered for sale or if any attempt or offer is made to transfer the voucher for value. 2. This voucher is valid at SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth until 31st March 2016. 4. For full Terms and Conditions, incl. Attraction restrictions (which are an inherent part of this voucher), visit www.sealife.co.uk/terms or call 01493 330631. REF: ECM

SEALIFE.CO.UK/GREAT-YARMOUTH

24 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 3AH

LIFESTYLE

WRABNESS BEACH, ESSEX Found next to the small village of Wrabness, this beach is beautiful, hidden away and less popular than other Essex beaches, giving the opportunity to enjoy a quiet day by the seaside. Part of the Wrabness nature reserve, this beach backs onto grasslands, scrub and woodland. Amenities - Parking is available at the Nature Reserve and Wrabness train station is only one mile away along a footpath. Where can we grab some food? - Drive or walk five miles along the coast to Harwich where there’s a variety of local restaurants and cafes serving up everything you could possibly want. Try Pieseas Fish and Chips or The Café on the Pier for a taste of the seaside or for something a little different, visit Tripadvisor’s top rated restaurant, Thai Up At The Quay.

MERSEA ISLAND, ESSEX Not exactly a hidden treasure for those who’ve grown up in Essex, but one that should definitely be on the list. Britain’s most easterly inhabited island, Mersea Island, is a place packed with old world charms. Famous for its seafood, the beach with the most golden sands on West Mersea is probably Monkey Beach, while East Mersea is wild, with acres of grassland sloping down to a vast beach Amenities - You’ll find everything here, from restaurants and cafes to public toilets and picnic areas. Where can we grab some food? - Head to The Company Shed early before the queues start forming for some of the best seafood on the island or try the West Mersea Oyster bar which also serves fish and chips, for those who don’t enjoy shellfish. Have you got any beaches, which you think we should all be visiting? Then let us know! Visit our Facebook at www.facebook.com/eastlifemag

eastlife.co.uk | 25

Children’s

Beat the boredom during the school holidays with our great range of indoor and outdoor activities, including swimming, arts, crafts, dance, animation workshops, tennis and much more! Kids Camp The ultimate stressbuster for parents. A full day of actio n packed supervised health activities for children in school years 1 to 6.

Booking now for the school holidays Base Camp A step up

from Kids Camp for young people in years 7 to 11.

Water fun for all the family Fly down flumes,

travel along a crazy river of waves, plunge down drops in the crazy outside rapids, dodge the water cannons and more in the leisure pool!

colchesterleisureworld.co.uk/holidayfun

ADVENTURE DAYS AT HILLTOP

BRILLIANT FAMILY FUN! Open Monday – Friday During Summer Holidays 27th July – 2nd September

See website for full schedule and updates

www.hilltopoutdoorcentre.co.uk

26 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

For info or to book call

01263 824514 BOOKING ESSENTIAL!

NEW FOR 2015

LIFESTYLE

STAYCATION THE

FROM CLASSIC COUNTRY GETAWAYS TO CONTEMPORARY COASTAL RETREATS, WE ROUND UP SOME OF THE REGION’S BEST ACCOMMODATION

With the summer weather so far promising, why not join the thousands of Britons who are choosing short trips on home shores over a family-package European holiday? Yes, the weather may be hit and miss and the sands not so white, but hidden throughout our fair region are some of the most idyllic escapes and quirky accommodation in Europe. With a huge variety of quality self-catering accommodation and activities to suit all ages, the East of England, particularly Suffolk and Norfolk, is the ideal destination for multi-generational holidays. Along the coastline you’ll find lovely beaches and quaint little harbours, travel inland and you’ll discover colourful villages and welcoming farms. eastlife.co.uk | 27

LIFESTYLE

COUNTRY LIFE

GROUP HOLIDAYS

If you fancy embracing country life and are looking for total escapism, plan a trip to Secret Meadows – a luxury camping experience, which helps support wildlife charity the Sinfield Nature Conservation Trust. Located near Woodbridge, the site is full of quirky features including the opportunity to hire your very own hen coop to provide freshly laid eggs each morning during your stay. Amanda Daniel, the founder of Secret Meadows, also works with the happy egg co. to provide them with tasty, freerange eggs. The happy egg co. is committed to providing the highest possible standard of welfare for its hens, with the belief that happier hens lay tastier eggs. During the day pull on your wellies or hire a bike and explore miles of pretty countryside, and by night, barbecue at sunset or roast marshmallows on a campfire!

If you’re planning a trip with friends Visit Suffolk recommends a stay at Bruisyard Hall, near Saxmundham. Dating back to 1354 it has been beautifully restored to provide accommodation for up to 24 guests in the Hall and adjacent Barn. The Hall includes spacious communal spaces with a games room for livelier guests and a drawing room for those who prefer to relax quietly. A bar and cinema room in the attic and extensive grounds ensure that your group will never be at a loss for something to do. Great for celebrations, anniversaries and close to Framlingham – a thriving market town with an historic castle, which is ideal for a group outing. www.bruisyardhall.com

There are different types of accommodation available including luxury lodge tents, which sleep up to 6, a Gypsy’s Rest and Hobbit Box. Prices from £436 for 4 nights. The Chicken and the Egg package is £24 per weekend/midweek or £26 per week. www.secretmeadows.co.uk

For an alive and kicking traditional British seaside holiday, Potters Resort on the Norfolk coast at Hopton-on-Sea is a firm favourite. The five-star resort has a range of inclusive One Night Special breaks to suit all tastes and interests throughout the year. One Night Specials include evening and late night entertainment, a five-course dinner, comfortable accommodation, midnight dish and breakfast the following morning. Plus extensive sports and leisure facilities and activities include swimming pools, climbing wall, adventure golf, Segways, karting, exercise and dance classes, and tennis. One Night Specials focus on evening entertainment in the 800-seat state-of-the-art Atlas Theatre and are usually held on a Sunday. Choose from a live show from Potters Theatre Company, themed entertainment or Star Acts this autumn. Ballads are given the big band treatment on 6 September with Unlimited Love featuring the Syd Lawrence Orchestra and you can get some satisfaction as The Rollin’ Clones start it up 20 September. Prices from £114 per person. For more on nights visit www.pottersholidays.com

Secret Meadows

28 | DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY!

Potters Resort

240x168 Summer holiday fun for the whole fam (Eastlife) 09-07-15.qxp_Layout 1 09/07/2015 16:19 Page 1

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CALL TO BOOK NOW: 01992 705896 WWW.RYE-HOUSE.CO.UK RYE ROAD, RYE HOUSE, HODDESDON, HERTS EN11 0EH.

Everyday Dining- Not – notJust just for aACelebration! Everyday Dining for Celebration! Two course lunch and coffee @ £18.00 per person Two course lunch andand coffee @£23.50 £18.00 per person Three course lunch coffee @ per person Available Monday - Saturday Three course lunch and coffee @ £23.50 per person Sunday Lunch Available Monday - Saturday Two course lunch, coffeeand and chocolate truffles @ £19.50 perperson person Two course lunch coffeeand @ £18.00 per Two Course Sunday lunch coffee @per£19.50 Three course lunch, coffee and chocolate truffles @ £25.50 person

Everyday Dining – not just for a Celebration! Three course lunch and coffee @ £23.50 per person La Carte- Saturday Available AMonday Hintlesham, Ipswich, IP8 3NS A La Carte menu available for lunch and dinner seven days a week

(excluding Sunday lunch time) 01473 652334 reservations@hintleshamhall.com Sunday Lunch www.hintleshamhall.com Menutruffles @ £19.50 per person Two course lunch, coffee andLounge chocolate

Available from 7am until 10.30pm, seven days a week.

Three course lunch, coffee and chocolate truffles @ £25.50 per person Afternoon Tea – Served 2-5pm A Traditional Afternoon Tea with a variety of cut sandwiches, A served La Carte cakes and scones with clotted cream & preserve £16.50 per person

A La Carte menu available for lunch and dinner seven days a week Champagne Afternoon Tealunch – Served 2-5pm (excluding Sunday time) Hintlesham’s renowned Afternoon Tea plus the added luxury of a glass of Champagne – £25.50 per person

Lounge Menu Available from 7am until 10.30pm, seven days a week. Afternoon Tea – Served 2-5pm A Traditional Afternoon Tea served with a variety of cut sandwiches, cakes and scones with clotted cream & preserve £16.50 per person Champagne Afternoon Tea – Served 2-5pm Hintlesham’s renowned Afternoon Tea plus the added luxury of a glass of Champagne – £25.50 per person

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LIFESTYLE

TAKE TO THE WATER

Southover, www.skyecottages.co.uk

Suffolk’s connection to the water is apparent throughout the county: from the inspiring views of the River Stour immortalised by Constable to the newly-created Broads National Park in the north of the county, not forgetting the 60 miles of beautiful coastline within the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visit Suffolk suggests enjoying the water from a different perspective, youngsters will love the thrill of a speedy trip on the Coastal Voyager (www.coastalvoyager.co.uk) from Southwold Harbour, while grown-ups may prefer the more genteel sailing barge SB Victor (www.sbvictor. co.uk), which operates a number of cruises from its berth at the Old Customs House in Ipswich Dock. The Broads are one of the biggest attractions in the UK and it’s no surprise that it’s a popular holiday destination year round. If spending the night aboard a boat isn’t for you, don’t worry, there are plenty of self-catering options scattered along the waterways suitable for all holiday styles and budgets. Self-catering websites are making it easier than ever before to find some of the cutest cottages and unusual offerings along the Broads. Occupying a picturesque spot right at the heart of the Norfolk Broads in Worxham, Southover is definitely a special property. The cottage is situated right on the edge of the River Bure and even features a decked balcony that overhangs the waterway and enjoys unbeatable views. If you’d rather head out onto the water you can use Southover’s very own boathouse where you’ll find the five-seater boat ready for your use. With five beautifully decorated bedrooms, it’s the perfect accommodation for groups of friends or family. Due to its superb location and gorgeous interior, you’ll need to be quick to snap up this property for next summer. Let by Skye Cottages (www.skyecottages.co.uk), it’s in demand and the next availability isn’t until January 2016. With endless beauty and plenty of things to see and do, wherever you choose to stay in this stunning region, you’re guaranteed a fun-filled trip – we just can’t promise sunshine!

FOR MORE HOLIDAY IDEAS DOWNLOAD THE EASTLIFE APP!

eastlife.co.uk | 31

32 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

LIFESTYLE

BANK HOLIDAY

BONANZA IT’S THE LAST BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND of the year (boo!), here’s how to make the most of it. From seaside fun for kids to food and festivals for adults, we’ve put together a handy guide for enjoying the last bank holiday of the year. STEP BACK IN TIME Embrace the games that time forgot this bank holiday with English Heritage days out. On 30 and 31 August, Wrest Park will be hosting a weekend of Edwardian games such as battledores and shuttlecocks. In Essex, Audley End House and Gardens will be propelling visitors into wartime Britain. The weekend will feature theatre, music, fashion and food from the 1940s. www.english-heritage.org.uk CLACTON FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL With free entry, parking and entertainment, thousands are expected to flock to the seaside town for the return of its Food and Drink Festival on 29 to 30 August. Taking place on Martello Green, a short distance from the pier, the festival is an extended two days of entertainment following on from the famous Clacton Air Show on 27 and 28 August. Visitors can wander around and try samples of delicious produce, watch chef demonstrations and enjoy live entertainment. www.clactonfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk CLASSIC MOTOR SHOW AND VINTAGE FAIR If you’re a fan of all things vintage stop by Knebworth House this bank holiday, 30 – 31 August, for an extravaganza of classic motors and vintage clothing. They’ll be a huge selection of cars on display, auto jumble and trade stands, while the lively vintage fair will take place in Knebworth Barns. Entry includes access to the gardens, dinosaur trail and park and adventure playground. www.knebworthhouse.com

Beccles Antiques Street Market On Sunday 30 August, 8am-4.30pm, a wide range of good quality antiques and collectables including furniture, silver, china, jewellery, vintage design, decorative items and more will line the streets of Beecles. It’s a popular event worth experiencing. www.facebook.com/antiquesmarketbeccles FENLAND COUNTRY FAIR The annual Fenland Country Fair promises superb, traditional rural entertainment for three days at Stow-cum-Quy Park over the August Bank Holiday weekend, 29 to 31 August. With free admission for children under 11, there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained – little girls are sure to enjoy riding the Steam Gallopers while the boys can have a go at archery or watch the Vintage Parade. Canine lovers are welcome to bring dogs on leads and there is an array of attractions for fans of man’s best friend, including a parade of hounds, terrier racing and a gun dog demonstration. Adults £10. Free parking. www.fenlandfairs.com BURY ST EDMUNDS FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL With different offerings throughout the town centre including a Farmers’ Market, cooking demonstrations and a chilli festival the free event is fast becoming a significant fixture in the East Anglian foodie calendar. Taking place 29 to 31 August, it’s an event not to be missed! www.burystedmundsfestivals.com WORLD PIER CRABBING CHAMPIONSHIPS On Sunday 30 August, the renowned Sheringham and Cromer Crab and Lobster Festival comes to an end after four months of fun and food. The World Pier Crabbing Championships & Grand Charity Auction close the festivities on Cromer Pier. With stalls, entertainers, crabbing and auction, and perhaps sunshine, paddling and ice creams too, it’s a day of unmissable seaside fun. www.crabandlobsterfestival.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 33

Bedfordshire

Steam & Country Fayre

3 DAY EVENT

18th, 19th & 20th September 2015 Old Warden Park, nr Biggleswade (SAT NAV SG18 9DX)

MANY GREAT ATTRACTIONS Steam Engines of all sizes Working Demonstrations Heavy Horses Fairground Organs Working Crafts Craft & Food Halls Trade & Market Stalls Arena Attractions Vintage Vehicles Old Time Fairground Vintage Tractors Morris Dancing Licensed Bar & Refreshments

ADMISSION PRICES Sat & Sun Adult Sat & Sun Children (5-16 years)

Caravan & Camping Area

£12.00 £5.00

Sat & Sun Family Ticket £30.00 (2 Adults & 2 Children) Fri All ages

£10.00

Download or contact for booking form

FREE CAR PARKING

Bedford Steam Engine Preservation Society

Coach Parties Welcome please contact us Free Entry to SAC Members

Charity no 291744

Gates Open 9am

Advanced tickets available from

www.bseps.org.uk

All Enquiries to: Paul Worbey, Park Farm, Henlow, Beds. SG16 6DF Tel/Fax: 01462 851711 Mobile: 07850 195622 Email: show@bseps.org.uk

34 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

VENTURAWILDLIFE’S

A DIVISION OF:

LET THE VENTURA WILDLIFE RANGERS VISIT YOU FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE... As you come face to face with exotic invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals from around the world.

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS ARE SUITABLE FOR: • Educational Visits • Birthday Parties • After School Clubs • Fetes & Fun Days • Fundraisers & so much more

SAV E £ 5 On any Animal Encounter. Simply quote code ‘ELIFE0815’ when placing your booking.

apply. Terms and conditions ils. Please contact us for deta

THRIGBY T B ESU E VAL H E IN TEA AR

Hands On. .

Meeting the meerkats

For more information or to book an Animal Encounter: Tel: 0203 371 8764 E: info@venturawildlife.co.uk www.venturawildlife.co.uk

WILDLIFE GARDENS

OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from

10.00am

NR29 3DR

% 01493 369477 www.thrigbyhall.co.uk 36 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

Presentation of this voucher entitles you to: UP TO

SAVE £6.00

The place to visit

THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH

£1.00 off for up to six people paying standard admission prices

Valid for 2015 Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer

LITTLE EAST

Into the wild

LET’S FACE IT, no matter your age everyone enjoys a day at the zoo. Whether you’ve got toddlers or teenagers to entertain this summer take a look at our picks for all things wild. Banham Zoo in Norfolk has enough weird and wonderful creatures to keep you busy for a week. There are more than 2,000 animals in this 50acre park as well as a safari train, adventure playground and regular talks and displays. Throughout August the zoo will focus on ‘Groovy Hooves’ with tailor-made activities celebrating hoofed animals. Adults from £11.75, child from £8.10.

There’s no need for an expensive holiday to Africa, you can experience it on your doorstep with Africa Alive (adults £11.75, child £8.10). From addax to zebras, congo sheep to Somali wild ass, you’ll need a full day to navigate your Suffolk safari. Throughout August the park invites visitors to decide who is the king of the carnivores with its new activity trail, special feeding talks and hands-on activities.

The Grove, Banham, Norfolk, NR16 2HE

Whites Lane, Kessingland, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 7TF

www.banhamzoo.co.uk

www.africa-alive.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 37

Paradise Wildlife Park is a wildlife gem (adults £17, child £14). It has an extensive range of zoo and farm animals, and attractions for all weathers. When the British summer turns a little temperamental kids can still enjoy the indoor soft play, craft area, bouncy castles and talks at the Jungle Theatre, while when the sun shines make the most of the outdoor adventure playgrounds, Paradise Lagoon, woodland walks and Safari Golf! Look out for Big Cat Night on Thursday 20 August and the Tiger Conservation Weekend from 29 to 30 August. White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, Herts, EN10 7QA www.pwpark.com

Enjoy a day of fun at Baylham House Farm. Hailed as the ultimate ‘family farm’ it specialises in the conservation of rare breeds. The farm offers a huge variety of activities for the whole family (adult £7, child £3). On arrival each child receives a bag of animal feed and you can get up close to all of the animals to meet and feed them. There are a huge variety of pigs, alpacas, sheep, goats, chickens, rabbits and much more. There are experiences available at various times throughout the week including cuddles with Tilly the premature calf, feeding the chickens and egg collecting, as well as meeting friendly goats and their new kids. New for the summer are some activities which all the family can get involved with including den building, pond dipping and mini beast hunts.

Dedicated to preserving this beautiful breed, The Suffolk Punch Trust makes for a fantastic summer’s day out. In addition to visiting horses in the stables, getting up close with farm animals at the pet corner and the usual tractor rides, The Trust has a whole host of fun activities planned for the school holidays (adult £9, child £5). There will be ploughing demonstrations throughout the summer and children’s trails and activities as well as the chance to meet the new foals. On 30 to 31 August it will host the event Something Suffolk, which celebrates everything great about the county. Sink Farm, St Davids Lane, Hollesley, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 3JR www.suffolkpunchtrust.org

Baylham IP6 8LG www.baylham-house-farm.co.uk 38| DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY!

LITTLE EAST

Woburn Park, Crawley Rd, Milton Keynes, Bedford MK17 9QN

Rye House is an ideal destination for the whole family this summer whether you are looking for the adrenaline experience of a lifetime, the thrill of laser combat or an adventure in the long lost world of the dinosaurs. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Rye-Assic Adventure Park where they can discover the Dinodrome indoor soft play area and minibowling or venture outside to enjoy trampolines and the ‘Lost In Time’ Dino Maze. Children and adults who enjoy a more pulsating experience can test their skills behind the wheel on the challenging Rye House karting circuit or try to outwit the opposing team using the best laser tag equipment in the Laser Combat arena.

www.woburnsafari.co.uk

Rye Road, Hoddesdon, Herts, EN11 0EH

Perhaps one of the most famous safari parks in the country, Woburn Safari Park has been a favourite with children (and adults) for years. You can get up close with some of the world’s biggest animals including rhinos and lions with a road safari or take a walk on the wild side with a mix of exotic birds, seals, elephants and more. There are daily talks and displays, and attractions which include the adrenaline tree top adventure Go Ape. Over bank holiday weekend there will be a delicious barbecue! Adults priced £22.99, child £14.99

www.rye-house.co.uk

Whether you are looking for the wildlife experience of a lifetime or simply something fun to do with the kids this summer, then look no further than Ventura Wildlife’s Animal Encounters. With over 200 exotic animals and artefacts it is one of the UK’s leading Animal Encounter providers. Its experienced team of rangers will visit you for an unforgettable adventure as you literally come face to face with invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals from around the world. For 2015 Ventura Wildlife has launched its highly anticipated Dino Animal Encounter, which will transport young explorers back into a prehistoric world of dinosaurs. This fascinating encounter is packed full of fossils, including gigantic dinosaur eggs, claws and teeth as well as providing the chance to meet their living descendants the birds plus a variety of reptiles.

Join in fun on the farm at Easton Farm Park, near Woodbridge. Offering a delightful mix of animals including sheep, ponies, rabbits and chickens, the farm features a daily timetable of activities all set within historic listed buildings and the countryside. This summer the farm has a jam-packed schedule of events. The Children’s Fun Festival returns the first weekend of August with magic, storytelling and much more. On Wednesday 19 August, kids can bring their teddy along for Family Fun Day and Teddy Bear’s Picnic, and on bank holiday Monday enjoy a day of magic. Adult £8.75, child £7.75

Tel: 0203 371 8764

www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk

Easton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 0EQ Tel: 01728 746475

www.venturawildlife.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 39

. . . .

Dates For Your Diary: fg

PETS PADDOCK HERITAGE MUSEUM TRACTOR-TRAILER RIDES HEAVY HORSE TRAINING

. . . .

Free Annua l with ad Pass mission

CHARITY CAR BOOT SALE with equestrian second hand sale 26th July 9.30am-12.00pm

De-clutter your cupboards and tack room and give your unwanted items a second home! ÂŁ5/car pitch

FAMILY FUN

HORSE AND DOG SHOW 8th August

Horses Classes from 9am - Dog Classes from 12pm Enter your horse, pony or dog in our fun classes e.g. Horse and Hound, Waggiest Tail, Turnout & Family Pony!

SOMETHING SUFFOLK 30th & 31st August

Join us for a fun family event to celebrate all things Suffolk; crafts, food, music and more!

Are you looking things to do Punch this weekend? Join our gentlefor giant Suffolk Horses for a fun family day

Then why not come and join our gentle giant Suffolk Punch Heavy Horses for a out this Easter. Visit pets corner, meet our Suffolk lambs, see fun day out for all ages. Visit pets corner, meet our Suffolk lambs and foals. See the horses being trained and enjoy a tractor-trailer ride. the horses being trained and enjoy a tractor-trailer ride around the farm. Dog friendly

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: 1100596

Whoever you are... Wherever you are going...

work college leisure A GROUP EXPLORER ticket could get you there.

A day’s unlimited travel on the bus network for up to 4 people for just

£14

*£8.50 daily ticket and £32 weekly ticket also available for people travelling alone. Ticket valid on most Hertfordshire bus services. Can be purchased on the bus. For information please visit www.intalink.org.uk/explorer.

www.intalink.org.uk |

@intalink

LITTLE EAST

BACK TO

SCHOOL BASICS It’s that time of year again, when we make a mad dash for back to school stationary. Take a look our top picks…

Say goodbye to first day nerves and tiny tears with RESCUE Gummy Stars. Each star contains four drops of RESCUE, the famous soothing combination of five flower essences. £5.25, available from Boots, Holland & Barrett and independent pharmacies

The perfect bag for little monkeys £28, Paul Frank at Debenhams

The perf ect note book for Small A6 stylish te no ens A5 noteb tebooks £4 ooks £6 www.sp arrowan dwolf.co .uk

Be proud to be a geek with this colourful stationary range from 2 Little Boys. A6 Notebook - £3.99 Refill Pad - £5.99 Pencil Case - £6.99 Ringbinder - £7.99 Available at Barretts of St.Neots

Give your child some healthy self-esteem and help them take pride in their abilities with the "WOW" Board. £12.99, www.amazon.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 43

SUMMER SPLASH IN CAMBRIDGE

ROASTS 12 - 6 EVERY SUNDAY! 100% LOCALLY SOURCED FRESH PRODUCE DAILY SPECIALS

FAMILY FRIENDLY

LIVE MUSIC Push the boat out and stay at the 4 star boutique Hotel Felix this Summer. Our Summer Punting package starts from £80pp and includes bed, breakfast, 3-course Table d’hôte dinner, 2 tickets for a guided punting tour along the iconic Backs, wiﬁ and parking. Offer available from 24th July to 6th September 2015.

~ Stylishly Different ~ WHITEHOUSE LANE, HUNTINGDON, CAMBRIDGE CB3 0LX 01223 277977 | help@hotelfelix.co.uk | www.hotelfelix.co.uk

1 BROCKLEY ROAD, ELSWORTH CB23 4JS

07 July East Life Dog 2015 HP_Layout 1 08/07/2015 14:10 Page 1

Don’t leave your four-legged friend behind! Ufford Park Woodbridge Set in 120 acres and ideally situated near the popular Suffolk seaside towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold, as well Rendlesham Forest, Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf and Spa is the perfect choice to stay for a short break with your family and your four-legged friend. Food served all day 18 hole par 71 Golf Course Luxury Thermal Suite Spa

15 metre Swimming Pool 2 storey Driving Range Open to Non Members

We look forward to welcoming you ........and your best friend!

t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW 44 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

/poacherelsworth

01954 268167

5 TOP 5

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We pick our favourite dog friendly pubs that are offering pooches more than just a bowl of water…

THE SIR GARNET, NORWICH Overlooking the Market Square, the modern pub housed in a medieval building is a big fan of dogs. Not only is water and the occasional treat provided but dogs are given free rein of both the bar and restaurant area, meaning you can enjoy the mezestyle platters with your dog at your side. THE WENTWORTH HOTEL, ALDEBURGH As well as pet-friendly rooms, the hotel is located on a mile stretch of pebbly beach that is dog friendly all year round. From outside the hotel to Thorpeness, you’ll be able to enjoy long walks with your pet. HOTEL FELIX, CAMBRIDGE From enjoying the spacious grounds and elegant orangery to snoozing on the terrace and exploring nearby Girton College for walkies, Hotel Felix is one of the most stylish city getaways for you and your four-legged friend. THE EIGHT BELLS, SAFFRON WALDEN This warm and friendly pub is great for a pint with your pet pooch. Dogs are allowed in the bar area where water and a glass jar full of delicious doggy biscuits is available. The food is pretty good for us owners too! BEACH CAFÉ, WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA Ok it’s not a pub, but this is one place that must be visited during the summer with your dog. Last year it was voted the most dog-friendly café in the UK and even has its own K9 Club! There’s fresh water provided and some tasty treats for sale as well as its ‘wash’n’wag’ service, where you can wash off your dog after a run on the nearby beach.

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FOOD & DRINK REFURBISHMENT

FOOD & DRINK NEWS

Harvester has reopened its Basildon site, The Five Bells, following a refurbishment. The restaurant has a fresh look, with new dishes on its menu and a cask ale at its bar. The investment has also created 10 new jobs for the local area. PINT SHOP FEATURES IN OPENTABLE’S TOP 50 Pint Shop, Cambridge, which specialises in British meat and beer, is the only Cambridge based food outlet to feature on OpenTable’s 2015 Top 50 Fit for Foodies restaurant list. Pint Shop joins prestigious company on the annual list, with the likes of The Chef’s Table in Chester, The Dairy in London and The Gardener’s Cottage in Edinburgh also appearing. The Top 50 is based on the opinions of more than 400,000 reviews submitted by OpenTable diners at 4,300 restaurants across the UK. www.pintshop.co.uk

RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH: West Mersea Oyster Bar, Essex For seafood at its best with views overlooking the creeks of Mersea Island, there is no better choice than the Oyster Bar. Seafood platters are huge, dishes mouth-watering and the views fascinating. Guaranteed fun in the sun! www.westmerseaoysterbar.co.uk

FIFTH BIG ONION FESTIVAL ANNOUNCED Elveden Estate has confirmed the return of its annual Big Onion Food and Music Festival, with a whole range of activities for all the family on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September. Taking place in Elveden’s Walled Garden from 10am-5pm, adjacent to the Elveden Shopping Courtyard, it promises to be a real food and farming feast for all involved. For adults there will be cookery demonstrations from top local chefs, guided farm tours, cheese and wine tasting with wine expert Chris Batten of Peatlings of Bury St Edmunds, plus a farmers market of more than 50 local food and drink producers, offering a chance to meet the people behind the products and taste their delicious goods. A programme of live music will fill each day with everything from acoustic singer songwriters and a jazz trio to rock and country bands. For children there is a range of activities including donkey rides, mini tractors and cookery sessions, plus pocket money games, including a bouncy castle and bungee trampolines. A ‘Camping Lawn’, located just a 20-minute walk from the Big Onion and only a two-minute stroll from the Elveden Inn offers a peaceful haven to allow you to enjoy a full weekend of relaxation. Live music at the Inn on Saturday night will guarantee a full weekend of activities for all. Camping pitches cost just £10 per night. www.bigonionfestival.com eastlife.co.uk | 47

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

07 July East Life Sax & BBQ 2015 HP_Layout 1 10/07/2015 11:48 Page 1

Join us Bank Holiday Monday Mr Tim

Simply Sax and

BBQ

Monday 31st August

FOOD | MUSIC | FREINDS

Music 12:30pm - 3:30pm BBQ 1pm - 3pm

£9.95

2 items from the BBQ & salad Kick back & listen to some mellow sounds. Bring family & friends to chill out one last time before the school madness begins.

t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW

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FOOD & DRINK

HOT BBQ TIPS THIS YEAR, don’t be afraid of your barbecue, ensure your food is cooked to perfection and your guests have a blast by following these simple tips from Angus Martin, head chef at The River Bar Steak & Grill at The Varsity Hotel, Cambridge…

BE PREPARED First of all gather wood charcoal then light it at least 45 minutes before it’s ready to cook on. You should have no flame, just white, hot coals. If you have a gas barbecue that’s ok, but the taste and smell of the food will be different. Prepare all the salads and breads before you start to cook. Items such as couscous, potato salad and coleslaw are always winners. If you’re having corn on the cob, it’s best to par boil on the stove in chicken stock and butter for 20 minutes then char-up on the barbecue.

COOKING TIMES This is a difficult to answer, as all burgers, sausages and chicken are different thicknesses so an exact time would not be suitable. Here are my tips for cooking meats and poultry: - Wash your hands - Always use a different board for raw and cooked meats - Keep the marinated meat in the fridge as long as possible before cooking - Cook the items until the juices run clear from the thickest part of the meat although this does not apply to burgers or steaks as burgers should have no pink in them! - For steaks, cook it as you like, from blue through to well-done - Don’t forget fish - just rub a little oil over them and then place onto the coals - You can also pre-cook items such as chicken legs in the oven first then finish on the coals

WIN!

Throughout August we’ll be offering the chance to win a BBQ Pack and extra goodies – ‘Like’ our Facebook page to find out more!

VEGETARIAN DISHES This is a question I am often asked, and it is an easy one to answer – be creative! • Grilled peppers • Grilled Haloumi • Kebabs made from courgette, pepper, aubergine and mushroom • Garlic mushrooms • Chargrilled asparagus • Grilled flatbreads Then salads of course, served with sour cream, hummus, crushed avocado and lime as dips.

TIPS FOR ADDING FLAVOUR CHARCOAL! Also, marinating all your ingredients beforehand. Whilst this requires a little effort, I would recommend this and in terms of what to use, the usual suspects are always a good start: garlic, salt, pepper, chilli, lemon, lime, curry pastes, brown sugar and Soy sauce…although the list is endless. HOW TO AVOID BURNING This is really simple - hot coals and keep turning your meat and basting. It’s that easy!

I would steer clear of vegetable burgers as if shop bought they can be lacking taste and often quite dry. There are so many vegetables out there, which with a little preparation and precooking lend themselves well to the barbecue.

DOWNLOAD

THE EASTLIFE APP

NOW FOR EXCLUSIVE RECIPES

FROM ANGUS MARTIN

eastlife.co.uk | 49

SEAFOOD & GRILL AT THE BRUDENELL, ALDEBURGH, SUFFOLK Swimming to the top of our list is the contemporary Seafood and Grill at The Brudenell Hotel on the Aldeburgh coast. Each dish is beautifully presented and the menu changes with the season. All produce is sourced locally, from beach dug clams and River Deben mussels, fresh quality seafood is guaranteed. Diners can enjoy sea views with their dinner or when the sun shines opt for a spot on the sea-facing terrace. Price: Mains from £13 Opening times: Lunch daily Mon – Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, Sat – Sun: 12pm – 3pm. Dinner Sun – Thurs: 6 – 9pm, Fri – Sat: 6pm – 9.30pm The Brudenell Hotel, The Parade, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BU Tel: 01728 452071 www.brudenellhotel.co.uk WIVETON HALL CAFÉ, NEAR BLAKENEY, NORTH NORFOLK With its shady trees and sandy soil, this colourful café has a Mediterranean vibe. Stop by for al-fresco breakfast or lunch and tuck into the delicious tapas offerings of Deep Fried Squid with Aioli or Pollard Clams with Wiveton Spinach and Chorizo, while overlooking the sea marshes. With a quirky interior and fab location, this place gets busy so booking is highly recommended. Price: Tapas dishes from £5.50 Opening times: Mon- Fri: 10am – 4.30pm, Lunch service daily: 12pm – 3pm. Weekends: 9.30am – 4.30pm, breakfast served at weekends only until 10.30am Wiveton Hall, 1 Marsh Lane, Wiveton, Holt NR25 7TE Tel: 01263 740515 www.wivetonhall.co.uk

THE COMPANY SHED, WEST MERSEA, ESSEX Effectively a wooden shack overlooking the estuary, don’t be fooled by its appearance, The Company Shed is renowned as being one of the best places for seafood in Essex. Bring your own bread and wine and tuck into a feast of fresh local seafood including oysters, crab and mussels. You can’t book so expect to wait for a while during the height of summer. Opening times: Tues – Sat: 9am – 4pm, Sun: 10am – 4pm 129 Coast Road, West Mersea, Colchester, CO5 8PA Tel: 01206 382700 www.thecompanyshed.co

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FOOD & DRINK

THE BEST RESTAURANTS FOR

SEAFOOD From seaside shacks, beach cafes and fine dining restaurants, the East of England is full of places to tuck into delicious fresh fish

COAST, CAMBRIDGE You don’t have to be by the sea to experience a fabulous fish dish; Cambridge’s seafood restaurant on Trinity Street, boasts a fantastic menu of traditional fish and chips, seafood pasta and fishy mains. Vegetarians and gluten free customers are catered for too! Dine in and watch city life pass you by or take away and enjoy at home. Opening Times: Mon – Sat: 11.30am – 10pm, Sun: 11.30am – 9pm. 15 Trinity Street, Cambridge CB21TB Tel: 01223 351344

COOKIE’S CRAB SHOP, SALHOUSE, NORFOLK This rustic café located on the green in the tiny coastal village of Salhouse, has been serving fresh shellfish for three generations. Tables are jammed together and queues likely during the summer months, but the plates piled high with crab, smoked mackerel, prawns and cockles are certainly worth the wait! It operates a BYO policy for alcohol if you fancy an ale or wine with your lunch. Opening times: Mon – Sun: 9am – 6pm The Green, Salthouse, Holt, NR25 7AJ Tel: 01263 740352 www.salthouse.org.uk

MORE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT SUGGESTIONS AVAILABLE ON OUR FREE APP DOWNLOAD TODAY FROM THE Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

eastlife.co.uk | 51

Explore the beauty of the River Orwell with

Orwell Lady River Cruises

The River Orwell has been officially voted the 2nd most beautiful river in the country behind only the River Dart. Orwell Lady provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty, local wildlife and the extensive history of our magnificent river and harbour, together with close up views of the huge ships at Port of Felixstowe, beginning and ending her trips at Ipswich Waterfront. Daytime Public Cruises • Music Nights English Afternoon Tea Cruises • Sunday Lunch Buffets Private Charters • School Trips • Coach Parties Welcome

www.regattaaldeburgh.com Join us on twitter #AldeburghR

Orwell River Cruises Ltd Public Cruises tel: 01473 258070 All other enquiries: 07773 369970 E: info@orwellrivercruises.com

www.orwellrivercruises.com

Albatros Bar, Restaurant, B&B

Traditional DUTCH CUISINE incl. our famous Dutch PANCAKES Speciality Lodging/B&B Live Music Every Weekend Private & Corporate Parties

If you would like to make a booking or have any further enquiries

Dine below deck in our cosy seating and bar area or alfresco on the main deck with fantastic views of the harbour and marshes

please contact Captain Ton Brouwer

Visit Our Website

07979 087228

www.albatroswells.co.uk 52 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

On board historic sailing ship ALBATROS, The Quay, Wells-next-to-sea.

email info@albatroswells.co.uk

For Enquiries

15877_BRU_EastLife_Ad_Layout 1 22/07/2015 13:04 Page 1

ALDEBURGH’S

BEACHSIDE TERRACE NOW OPEN FOR SUMMER For al fresco dining with stunning coastal views, beautifully fresh locally-sourced ﬁsh, and a very warm welcome

Ultimate THE

SEAFOOD BREAK

Seafood & Grill, Brudenell Hotel, The Parade, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BU 01728 452071 www.brudenellhotel.co.uk/seafood-grill-restaurant

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For the largest collection of bridal gowns & bridesmaid, flower girls & evening wear within West Norfolk and the Kings Lynn area. Please drop by and see us to discuss your requirements. Our polite and friendly staff will assist in making your dream day come true. To book your appointment, please call 01553 760258

COME ALONG ON A CAKE CLASS OR BOOK A ONE TO ONE LESSON.

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Kimbolton Castle A wedding at Kimbolton Castle is a magical affair in a stately home with beautiful grounds.

        

54 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

Couples have exclusive use of the State Rooms. Our experienced team will guide you through your tailor made preparations at the Castle ensuring that your wedding day runs according to plan. • Up to 120 guests for both the ceremony and wedding breakfast • Up to 250 guests for the evening • Licensed for civil ceremonies The Castle has its own caterers who provide a professional service offering a wide selection of menus and an extensive wine list. Bookings for 2016 & 2017 now being taken

bursarysec@kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk

WEDDINGS

BLING BLING THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE to choosing your wedding ring In the chaos that surrounds planning your big day, the wedding rings can often become a second thought (or perhaps that was just me). It’s a piece of jewellery that you will want to wear for the rest of your life so it has to be perfect. Whether you fancy something classic or a band that’s a little more fancy, read our tips for picking the right style for you. PRECIOUS METALS Choosing the metal for your wedding ring is a good place to start. You may be surprised to learn that there are more options available than just gold, silver and platinum. It’s important to talk to a jeweller to get a better understanding of what metal will be most suitable for your lifestyle. YELLOW GOLD This is often a classic choice for bride and grooms as 9ct, 14ct and 18ct are combined with stronger metals making it ideal for everyday life. WHITE GOLD White gold is great for complimenting a platinum engagement ring and is often budget-friendly. White gold rings are plated with rhodium to enhance its appearance, which will wear over time. So if you decide on this metal keep in mind you’ll likely need it re-plated every so often.

PLATINUM A tough, white-coated metal, platinum has become a firm favourite for modern couples. Its strength will stand-up against everyday wear, leaving it practically unmarked forever. However, platinum isn’t cheap and will likely pinch a large portion of your budget. PALLADIUM Reliable and honest jewellers will recommended this as a great alternative to platinum. It’s a similar colour, strong and comes with a budget friendly price tag. TITANIUM This light and scratch-resistant metal has become increasingly popular in recent years. With a different shade of colour to other popular choices such platinum and palladium, it’s a modern metal upping its game in the wedding stakes. SHAPE AND STYLE Choosing a shape to sit perfectly alongside your engagement ring may prove a little trickier than you might expect, especially if you have a raised diamond or quirky style. It’s likely you’ve never noticed the shape of your engagement ring but this will soon become clear once paired with various wedding bands. There are a variety of curved and fitted rings available and an experienced jeweller will be able to advise the best option.

eastlife.co.uk |55

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East Life May.indd 1

11/05/2015 11:23

FASHION

Pack Your Bags

SUNNIES, SANDALS AND SUNWEAR – the holiday essentials you need to be poolside perfect.

Cover up from evening breezes with a Becksondergaard scarf £25, The Dressing Room, St Albans

Don't let the heat play havoc on your hair. Give it some life with Nanogen Root Boost. £9.95, Boots, nationwide

This Iconique Lace Kaftan is great for covering up in the sunshine but chic enough for cocktails, £40, www.monacobeach.co.uk

A stylish bag for your beach essentials £28, Next, Brotherhood Shopping Park, Peterborough

There’s no losing your luggage with these bright bargain tags £1, Poundland, Brotherhood Shopping Park, Peterborough

The perfect finishing touch to any holiday outfit £49, Gerry Weber at Claytons at Hatters, Bedford

Black trimmed bikinis are a musthave this summer £16, Tu at Sainsbury’s

Espadrilles have officially overtaken the gladiator sandal as this seasons choice of shoe £20, www.stylistpick.com

eastlife.co.uk | 57

Lovely Ladies Clothing & Accessories

Indulge yourself

Beautiful Handmade Jewellery

Buy Online www.elouiselingerie.co.uk

Visit us for a wonderful & friendly shopping experience

INDULGE YOURSELF

Whether you’re after the perfect piece for an exclusive event, the holiday of a lifetime or simply because you deserve a treat, Elouise Lingerie has a stunning collection that is hard to match. The Cambridgeshire-based designer boutique stocks sophisticated lingerie from international brands, along with glamorous swimwear, luxury nightwear and fine hosiery – everything you need to feel extra special. Gift-wrapping available.

Buy Online www.elouiselingerie.co.uk

Elouise Lingerie, 40 High Street, Buckden, Cambs PE19 5XA Telephone: 01480 812740 Email: sales@elouiselingerie.co.uk

41 High St Royston, Hertfordshire SG8 9AW

Elouise Lingerie 40 High Street Buckden Cambs PE19 5XA Telephone: 01480 812740 Email: sales@elouiselingerie.co.uk

21114-105181 ElouiseLingerie FP.indd 28

01763 243359

03/06/2015 16:03

BUY 5 ENVIRON FACIALS and get 6th one FREE! New at The Beauty Barn – Environ Facials!

Packed with nourishing, anti-ageing ingredients, the Active Vitamin Treatment will leave your skin looking radiant and dewy. The freshest, most active forms of vitamin A and C, and antioxidants, are driven deep into the lower layers of the skin using sound waves and small electrical pulses. This scientific approach stimulates collagen to soften lines and improve elasticity, increase hydration and boost radiance. The Active Vitamin Treatment is suitable for all skin types and is particularly effective at addressing sun-damage, pigmentation, premature ageing, dryness, uneven skin tone and scarring with noticeable differences after just one session. Come and see us… Unit 10, Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT

01449 711190

www.beautybarnsuffolk.co.uk

58 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

SPECIAL OCCASION WEAR BRIDESMAID DRESSES | MOTHER OF THE BRIDE EVENING WEAR | CRUISE WEAR | SPECIAL OCCASIONS FULLER FIGURES | PROM DRESSES

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. First Sunday of the month 11:00am to 3:00pm.

Relax, unwind and enjoy the pleasure of Aqua Springs Visit Aqua Springs for a complete spa experience. Jacuzzis, saunas, steam and salt inhalation rooms. Treatments and therapies. Book in for a facial or manicure. Come for a leisurely catch-up with friends in the spa. Call 01206 282100 or visit Aqua Springs at Leisure World Colchester, Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, CO1 1YH.

Check out the special offers on our website

Now open ‘til 10pm on Saturday nights! Spa only after 6pm

aqua-springs.co.uk

Studio Salon

UNISEX

3 Manor Mews Bridge Street St Ives T. 01480 301122

For the best

in hair & beauty

• Hair Cutting & Colouring • Top to Toe Packages • Facial Treatments • Electrolysis • Massage • Hand & Foot Treatments • Spray Tanning • Non Surgical facelift www.studio3hairandbeauty.com

Gift Vouchers for All Occassions Free Consultations Bridal Parties Welcome

eastlife.co.uk | 59

HEALTH

HEALTH NEWS THE

GET THE LATEST HEALTH NEWS and wellbeing advice from around the region EFFECTIVE SKIN REJUVENATION My Body Essentials, Peterborough, have introduced the latest in Dermapen™ treatments, which result in effective skin rejuvenation with less downtime. An advancement on the original Derma Roller system the treatment promotes scarless healing and natural collagen reproduction, similar to fractional laser treatments, IPL, and chemical peels, but without the longer lasting side effects or downtime, so with less discomfort and better results being achieved far sooner. The Dermapen™ gently punctures and stimulates your skin with very fine needles to encourage faster natural collagen renewal and production. Collagen is produced naturally by your body and keeps your skin healthy. Dermapen™ Micro Needling can be used on and is effective for all skin types from light to dark skins for many skin issues. It can be used to treat acne scarring, surgical scars, wrinkles, loss of pigmentation and stretch marks to name a few. With a free no obligation, confidential consultation that can include digital skin facial analysis, honest friendly advice and a professionally tailored personal treatment plan, your skin issues will soon be a thing of the past. Tel: 01733 305102 www.mybodyessentials.co.uk BE PAMPERED AT STUDIO 3 This month Eastlife takes a look at Studio 3 in St Ives. Overlooking the River Ouse, located in the Old river port town of St Ives is Studio 3 Hair and Beauty, an established business with years of experience specialising in a range of hair and beauty treatments. Its team of stylists and therapists are on hand to help and advise to suit your needs from hair colouring and styling to head-to-toe beauty treatments. If you’re jetting off on holiday or planning on saying ‘I do’ this summer, take a look Studio 3’s range of holiday, bridal and prom packages. Free consultations are available. For more details call 01480 301122 or visit www.studio3hairandbeauty.com eastlife.co.uk | 61

Arthroscopic surgery. Ligament reconstruction. Joint replacement. The Clinic is run by Mr. Jai Chitnavis, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon. Operations are performed by him at both private hospitals in Cambridge. The Cambridge Knee Clinic Ltd Compass House, Chivers Way, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9AD

Tel: 01223 253763 www.TheCambridgeKneeClinic.co.uk

89721 Michael Gaunt Advert (EL) May_89721 Michael Gaunt Advert (EL) May 01/05/2015 11:12 Page 1

Mr Michael Gaunt Consultant Vascular Surgeon Varicose and Thread Veins

NEW LEGS NEW YOU... Do your legs let you down because of varicose veins or thread veins? Consultant vascular surgeon Michael Gaunt specialises in varicose and thread veins. He is a leading venous expert, experienced in treating varicose veins with both the Endovenous laser and ClariVein techniques. Varicose veins are often considered a cosmetic condition but if neglected can result in complications. Minimally invasive local anaesthetic procedures can be used to treat varicose veins on a walk in, walk out basis. Also available is VeinWave treatment for unsightly facial thread veins and spider veins. If you would like to book a mini-consultation for just ÂŁ95, or if you would like to find out more about your treatment options, call 01223 305858 or visit www.michaelgaunt.com Harley Street London

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62 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

F_BAR_9615 East Life advert - 168x240mm_v2.qxp_Layout 1 10/07/2015 16:00 Page 1

Feel right at home with Barchester care homes

At Barchester, we know finding the right care home can be a daunting decision, but we’ll do everything we can to help. Our carefully selected and well-trained staff take time to get to know the people we care for. We help them to feel at home, to maintain their interests, make new friendships and improve their quality of life. There’s a number of Barchester homes across East Anglia, Cambridge and Peterborough, with something to suit all care needs:

Nursing Care • Residential Care • Dementia Care Assisted Living • Day Care • Respite Breaks

If you would like a tour of any of our homes or just need some friendly advice, call us on:

Tel: 02037 971 372

www.barchester.com

During July and August we are offering 7 nights respite or convalescence care for the price of 5 nights

HEALTH REDISCOVER CAMBRIDGE WITH FREE GUIDED BIKE RIDES If you’re keen to get out on your bike a bit more and explore your local area this summer, but don’t know where to start, a series of free guided bike rides coming to Cambridge could be the answer. Part of a national campaign to get more people cycling for fun and fitness, Sky Ride Local offers a fantastic range of themed guided bike rides taking place throughout the summer months. British Cycling and Sky, in partnership with Cambridge City Council and Cambridge County Council, have scheduled a series of rides in Cambridge for 2015. Guided by friendly British Cycling Ride Leaders along scenic local routes and pitched at three different levels, the rides will explore different themes from wildlife and wilderness to city streets and parklife. Stewart Kellett, British Cycling’s Director of Recreation and Partnerships said: “What better way to get some exercise, get outdoors and see your area in a new way. There’s no time like the present to get your bike out. Whether you want to build your cycling confidence or are already comfortable on a bike and looking for a challenge, now’s the time to register your free place on a Sky Ride Local bike ride in Cambridge.” To register for a free-guided bike ride and find out more about getting into cycling visit www.goskyride.com/ Cambridgeshire

A CARE PROVIDER COMMITTED TO PERSON-CENTRED CARE Eastlife explores the personal touch behind Barchester Healthcare’s quality and focus. Care home provider, Barchester Healthcare, prides itself on delivering person-centred care throughout its homes and places great importance on staff spending quality time getting to know the people they care for. Barchester runs over 200 care homes across the UK, with many in the East Anglian region including Peterborough and throughout Cambridgeshire. Each home is run by a skilled and friendly team, who are committed to providing quality care and believe it’s vital to celebrate the extraordinary and very personal events that have shaped the lives of every individual. Knowing and respecting residents is the basis of Barchester’s person-centred care approach. This personalised approach extends to social and leisure activities. Activity co-ordinators get to know every resident and provide group and individual options that are tailored to individuals’ interests. Whether you are passionate about films,

gardening or local history, Barchester home organise events and activities catering to everyone’s tastes. Each Barchester home offers different services to the local community. Many provide nursing and residential care, while others also offer respite care services, assisted living apartments and specialist services for adults of all ages. Dementia services are offered in care environments called a Memory Lane Communities, specially designed by Barchester to encourage people living with dementia to lead a full and active life, staying as independent as possible. The living space encourages residents to interact with their surroundings and facilities such as life-skills kitchens, which allow those individuals living with dementia to continue to experience the familiarity of everyday household tasks like setting the table for dinner, washing up or baking. Why not arrange a visit to your nearest Barchester or just call in to have a cup of tea or coffee and see first-hand the care options available. To find out more visit www.barchester.com eastlife.co.uk | 65

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Fine Antique Clocks & Barometers

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CONSUMER

IN THE

SPOTLIGHT WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT OWNING A COMPANY IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND? My office in Norfolk is at the end of Whitlingham Country Park overlooking green fields which change as the seasons pass, perfect location! The East of England is a great location for a company with good road, rail and flight connections all of which I use. WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO VISIT IN EAST ANGLIA? I enjoy going to Southwold at any time of year. Walking by the beach huts, re-reading their names and if in the early morning enjoying coffee at the Pier CafĂŠ or later in the day dining either at The Swan or The Red Lion.

Angela Gifford ANGELA GIFFORD, managing director at Able Community Care, gives an exclusive insight into the Norwich based carers scheme, which has been offering support since 1980 COMPANY PROFILE:

WHAT CAN EASTLIFE READERS LOOK FORWARD TO FROM ABLE COMMUNITY CARE THIS YEAR? Able Community Care has introduced two new services: a Home from Hospital Service and a Holiday/Cruise Companion Service. The first offers convalescent care in your own home 24/7. The second is to enable people who need care throughout the day to travel and enjoy holidays safely with an experienced Carer Companion. www.uk-care.com

Able Community Care provides live-in care worker schemes enabling older and disabled people an alternative choice to moving into a residential care setting. Since 1980 we have enabled thousands of people to stay in their own home of choice. WHAT ROLE DO YOU PLAY IN THE COMPANY? I oversee the running of the company and in particular its marketing and promotional projects. This has led to an international reputation resulting in Australasia consultancy projects. WHAT MAKES ABLE COMMUNITY CARE SPECIAL? Able Community Care was started by myself, and 35 years later I still work in the company. We specialise in providing only live-in care services, as a result our experience and skills are exceptional. Our reputation is based on reliability.

Able Community Care eastlife.co.uk | 69

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CONSUMER

Martin Lewis Understanding student loans

SUMMER’S HERE, and across the UK, universities are opening their doors to sell their wares to a new batch of prospective students. The problem is many are scared off wrongly by the rather meaningless price tag - the “£50,000 of debt” others in the media like to shriek about. For those attending summer open days, on the surface things have got even worse, as the Chancellor announced in the budget student grants will be cut when they start in 2016. Yet throw away your preconceptions. Student finance is an entirely different beast to any other, so all is not as it first appears. Let me explain. How do student loans work in practice? It tends to be parents more than prospective students who panic about large debts from going to university – some even make the huge mistake of re-mortgaging house’s to prevent their children paying fees. Yet much of this worry is unnecessary. In fact, I would argue that these aren’t really loans at all – in reality they work more like an additional tax. I think the whole system would be better if we renamed it a “graduate contribution” – that’s what other countries call it. In fact, when you read this try replacing “student loan” in your head with “graduate contribution” and it may help it make sense. If you want a more detailed explanation, go to www.mse.me/studentloans

1. You don’t pay for university tuition upfront. Fees, which for most full-time English students are £9,000 a year, are paid for you and you also get money for living costs. 2. You repay this loan once you’ve left, but only if you earn £21,000 or more. 3. You repay 9% of everything you earn above £21k. So that means the more you earn, the more you repay monthly. 4. The loan’s wiped after 30 years – whether you’ve paid a penny or not. When you do the maths it works out that many people will be repaying for the whole 30 years. 5. The loan doesn’t go on your credit file. 6. Employers take the repayments out of your salary before you get it, just like income tax, so no one is chasing you for the money. 7. Interest is added to the loan at inflation + 3% while studying, and between inflation and inflation + 3% afterwards, depending on what you earn. Though only those who pay enough to clear what you borrowed in full over the 30 years actually pay it (which is less people than you think). Financially at least, the system is “no win, no fee”. If you don’t earn enough you don’t have to repay it, if you do, you pay a lot. So that £50,000 debt figure is mostly meaningless - low earners won’t ever pay close to that in real terms, high earners will pay a lot more (when you include the interest). See www.mse.me/studentcalc to see how much you’ll pay. For more advice from Martin on student loans download the Eastlife App. eastlife.co.uk | 71

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TPI SECRETS REVEALED 1) WE CHARGE FOR OUR SERVICE Every consultant does. We place a commission which is included in the quotations we provide. If preferred we offer direct invoicing to our clients. WATCH OUT FOR consultants who say “Our service is free” - catch consultants out by contacting the supplier as they are obliged to disclose the commission included in your quotation. 2) WE APPROACH SELECTED SUPPLIERS CUB sends quotation requests to 20 energy suppliers. Some consultants send requests to more and most often fewer suppliers. So be clear what the tendering process for your portfolio involves

ASK ANY BUSINESS – “do you work with an energy consultant?” and 9 times out of 10 the answer will be yes. Many businesses reading this may well have strong views or extremely negative view of TPI’s based on past or present business transactions. We would like to introduce CUB UK. An energy consultant who originally began as a home based business and was single-handedly managed by Royden Fairfax. However, over the last 20 years the company has grown significantly into a market leading business. The company’s reputation has been built on a core of family and ethical values, a keen interest in helping the local community and a successful training scheme. Last year, the company became the first UK consultant to offer tiered packages rather than a ‘one size fits all’ service. A customer orientated culture led the company to implement a “Five Star Customer Promise” to ensure all staff remained committed in providing excellent service at all times. This resulted in customer satisfaction reviews and ratings on the website of 94%. CUB UK aims to lead the industry by operating ethically and have therefore disclosed some of its operational methods to educate businesses on the importance of partnering with the right energy consultant.

3) EVERY QUOTATION HAS CHARGES CUB will disclose all charges within the quotations provided that may be applicable to your business such as CCL (Climate change levy), FIT (Feed in Tariff) , RO (Renewables obligation). Leave these charges out of a quotation, and the price appears cheaper when in actual fact your business will end up paying more! 4) FULLY INCLUSIVE AND FIXED TERM CONTRACTS ARE LABELLED DIFFERENTLY There are fully inclusive and fixed price contracts on 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 month terms, however most suppliers tend to offer their “standard” product as a default. CUB discloses the product type upon quotation. Fixed contracts can come in as any of these three separate products which can cause confusion and are as follows: - PASS THROUGH certain non energy costs are excluded and will be passed through at the time of billing. - STANDARD non energy costs typically increase during the life of the contract if they rise above the supplier’s threshold. - FULLY FIXED Non energy costs have been guaranteed not to increase during the life of the contract. The only way to be sure of what you are signing up for is to ask for a price breakdown.

eastlife.co.uk | | XX 73 eastlife.co.uk

Welcome to Estia

For a professional approach to supplying quality Kitchens, Bathrooms and Bedrooms. Whether you prefer an ultra-modern or a timeless classic design, Estia have the right choice for you in thousands of colours. All leading brands of appliances are available. With over 35 years experience, we cater for all budgets - from small projects to complete refurbishments to include small building works. NO PROBLEMS, ONLY SOLUTIONS! We look forward to meeting you in our showroom soon!

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MOTORING

DS – A BRAND IN ITS OWN RIGHT FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: DS5 Price: £27,140 otr Engine: 2 litre Blue HDi diesel 150hp Performance: 0-62mph in 10.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 127 mph CO2 emissions: 105g/km Combined fuel consumption: 68.9mpg SUE COOKE INVESTIGATES As the ‘65’ plate drives new car registrations next month (September), a premium brand launches, which will increase the choice dilemma and attract those wanting to move on from conformity. DS is now a brand in its own right and the luxury part of Citroen, following in the footsteps of Lexus, which is the luxury brand for Toyota, and Infiniti which is the luxury brand for Nissan. The premium range DS offers buyers the most desirable technology as well as creative design and outstanding quality, at a price. DS has launched the top of the range DS5 which will be followed by refreshed versions of the DS3 hatch and cabrio and the DS4. By 2020 there will be six cars in the range, three new and the next generation of the current trio. As with all the DS range, the DS5 is stunningly attractive both externally and internally. The ninecar luxury line up starts from £25,980 and costs up to £34,890. A celebration 1955 Edition is included at £29,600 with particular features to mark the 60th anniversary of the original DS.

The interior design is very contemporary with good space and there are two specifications, Elegance and Prestige. The most symbolic feature is the cockpit roof, with its three separate glass areas. LED lighting appears throughout, bathing the interior in a gorgeous ambient display of intermittent reds and whites or whatever colour the driver prefers. The driving position is designed around the driver. The main controls are grouped on two centrally positioned consoles, one at a low level near the gear selector and one overhead. Both incorporate specially designed buttons, dials and toggle switches that were inspired by the aerospace industry. The DS5 offers a new touch drive interface. This new system provides easy access to all in-car functions, from navigation to music. It also simplifies the interior layout, with 12 fewer buttons on the dashboard and facia. This latest-generation screen also includes new Mirror Screen technology. This function lets users copy smartphone content onto the screen and ensures all relevant apps can be used safely when driving. Later in the year, DS will introduce ‘MyDS’, an iOS/Android compatible mobile app. There isn’t enough space to list the numerous other features but the more sophisticated ones include a blind spot monitoring system, a lane departure warning function, automatic high beam control, turning headlights that work with the static cornering lighting to optimise illumination, hill-start assist, stability control, intelligent traction control, a reversing camera and a head-up display, which I think all cars should have. There are no fewer than 10 safety systems overall! Follow Sue Cooke on Twitter @cookecars eastlife.co.uk | 75

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HOME & GARDEN

THE GUIDE TO WET ROOM DESIGN ARTICLE BY GINA HUTCHINGS Wet rooms have become the best way to update your bathroom in recent months, taking it from your average bathroom to a luxurious wonderland of spa tranquillity. However, creating the perfect wet room takes a lot of thought and planning. We sat down to compile the top three things to keep in mind when designing your wet room.

WATER CONCIOUS DESIGN When designing a wet room, it is important to keep in mind that the whole room will get wet every time you shower. You will need to design your bathroom in such a way as to prevent items such as towels getting wet. Ensure that your towel rack is shielded from the shower whilst things such as the corners of the room, floor and light fittings are waterproofed.

KEEP IT MINIMALISTIC One of the great design features of a wet room is the clean, minimalistic elements created by doing away with the chunkiness of a shower base. The perfect wet room is uncluttered with only a few items on display. In order to create this minimalistic atmosphere you need to utilize every aspect of your storage space, adding extra inner drawers into your cupboards. Some creative storage solutions can be found through suppliers such as Bedroom Storage Maker.

MODERN DESIGN TRENDS The wet room has seen some trendy interior design features in recent months such as an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;invisible shower headâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and natural walls. Fitting your shower head into the ceiling is a great way to add an element of surprise and whimsy whilst enhancing the minimalistic design. Natural walls are also a big bathroom design trend this season, bringing the outdoors indoors in a vertical fashion. Some of the best wet rooms are minimalistic, on trend and neat. As long as you have these three things in mind when starting your wet room, you are well on your way to something spectacular.

eastlife.co.uk | 79

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HOME & GARDEN

A Host’s Guide to

SUMMER DINING It’s finally barbecue weather and everyone is taking advantage. The shops are packed with barbecue kits and charcoal, and after 4 o’clock on a Saturday afternoon you can catch a delicious whiff of cooking food every so often.

Everyone who has even an inch of backyard space is planning their big summer barbecue and we have the perfect guide to your outdoor dining experience. Article by Gina Hutchings

THE PERFECT BARBECUE CHAIR The heart of every barbecue is the outdoor table. It is the place where everyone sits to snack, drink and catch up with each other for hours. It is where the food is lavishly laid out and the drink is always flowing. So why not give your guests the perfect chair to laze about in for the afternoon? A chair like this rustic woven rattan design, available from Room 4 Interiors, is the perfect chair to sink into while you sip on your glass of Sauvignon Blanc and nibble on your crisps.

SIMPLICITY IS KEY Barbecues are a time to relax and unwind. Make sure that your table reflects that. No one can relax when they are seated at a formal table. Why not put all of your knives and forks in a colourful (clean) flower pot and leave the glassware in the centre of the table. Show your guest where the wine, beer and cool drink is kept and they can help themselves. Remember that the host also needs to unwind! Picture sourced from blovelyevents.com

LIGHT IT UP Fairy lights, lanterns and candles are the perfect way to make your barbecue far more inviting and romantic. Perfect for when the sun dims and the pudding comes out. Soft lighting creates a cosy and romantic atmosphere for all outdoor dining occasions. Our mind is already on the great barbecue that we will be having this weekend. Will you be enjoying this glorious weather with a meal outdoors? Picture sourced from domestically-speaking.com

eastlife.co.uk | 81

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HOME & GARDEN

ADD VALUE TO YOUR

HOME LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT Aaron Pooley explains how to increase the value of your home

A COMMON QUESTION I get asked by homeowners across the entire Norfolk and Suffolk region is “How can I add value to my property?” The answer is that the possibilities are endless, and if done right, you’ll end up making your home a more enjoyable place to live as well as adding value and giving yourself a return on your investment. There are a number of prominent trends in the property market at the moment, but you need to determine what works best for your budget, area, space and timescale. Don’t forget with extensions and conversions you’ll need to seek advice from your local planning department, which can significantly impact the latter. Aaron Pooley property expert for Purplebricks.com recommends the following:

DID YOU KNOW? We have additional tips on how to improve the value of our home on our app, and you could have accessed this information up to a week before the print copy was in your hand. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

1. ADD A BASEMENT Basement conversions do make financial sense and many are very well designed and add lots of useable living space, so done right, a basement can add huge appeal to a property. The super basement is a different matter – chances are that you won’t get your money back unless you live in an area that sells for £2,000 plus a square foot. The super basement is one for the super rich and a dubious investment! 2. CONVERT THE LOFT Another option for creating more space, whilst not being too disruptive as most of the work can be done from outside, is to build upwards. Ensure that access to a loft conversion is easy and that it fits with the design of the house, rather than looking mismatched with the rest of the property. 3. GET RID OF THE GARAGE A staggering 90% of British garages don’t contain a car, which means it’s a wasted asset. It’s important to remember that a garage is usually longer and thinner than other rooms in the house, so keep this in mind when planning what you’re going to do with the space. 4. UPDATE THE KITCHEN OR BATHROOM If extending your property isn’t an option, re-doing the existing kitchen or bathroom is a great way to add value. These areas should always be modernised to appeal to a broader audience.

eastlife.co.uk | 85

F I N A L

R E L E A S E S

L U X U R Y A PA RT M E N T S A N D I N D I V I D U A L LY D E S I G N E D M E W S H O M E S Waterside Maltings is in an enviable location and features a variety of quality proper ties. This includes a limited collec tion of 1 & 2 bedroom luxur y apar tments along with exclusive 2 and 3 bedroom Mews Homes, all perfec t for the discerning buyer. The final release of three bedroom Mews Homes each feature a generous lounge / dining room with fully fitted kitchen including a comprehensive range of high end branded integrated appliances. The large master bedroom incorporates a private en-suite and the proper ties also include a family bathroom, beautiful private gardens, parking space and ample storage. The one and two bedroom luxur y apar tments and penthouse also incorporate private outside areas, some with views over Alma Beck and beyond. LUXURY APARTMENTS & PENTHOUSES FROM £119,950 | INDIVIDUALLY DESIGNED MEWS HOMES FROM £164,950 A prime position only 25 minutes from Norwich City Centre. Purchase your home with a 5% deposit & 75% mortgage via the ‘Help to Buy’ scheme - ask our sales team for details.*

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*Terms and conditions apply - please ask our sales negotiators for further details. Images are indicative of properties at the Waterside and other similar PJ Livesey developments. No assumptions should be made as each property is individually designed, please contact the sales team for full details.

HOME & GARDEN

LAST CHANCE TO SNAP UP A STYLISH HOME AT THE MALTINGS

THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MALTINGS ON THE NORFOLK/SUFFOLK BORDER is entering its final phase with luxury new homes to suit all buyers. The scheme sits opposite open playing fields on the edge of the pretty village of Bungay with its thriving high street of independent shops and weekly market. It is built around a historic Grade II listed silk mill and the design of the new homes takes its lead from the heritage architecture. A mix of properties from three storey townhouses and four bedroom detached homes to one bedroom garden apartments all offer the same high levels of specification and attention to detail that are the hallmark of the site’s developers, the respected P J Livesey Group. Already established as a popular community, there is high demand for the properties in the final phases of the scheme which are now being released. Included in this final release are four substantial mews homes offering spacious family living over two storeys and three generous double bedrooms. These properties all feature an open plan living/ dining area with bi-fold doors leading out onto large gardens that back onto the wildlife corridor edging the site. Sales director Gavin Pearce said: “These are lovely homes in an enviable position on the development and we are expecting a lot of interest. They offer really spacious, well thought out family living in a gorgeous spot.”

Also available are three one bedroom apartments in West Maltings, which have been popular with first time buyers wanting a place of their own and downsizers looking for a low maintenance and secure home. West Maltings has just 14 apartments in total over three floors. The ground floor apartments have their own garden and the first floor properties have private balconies. Gavin said: “We recognise the importance of having outside space and the ground floor garden apartments have been very popular. The big windows ensure that all the apartments are flooded with light and the views from the first and second floor are delightful. Prices for the three bedroomed mews properties start at £194,950. One bedroomed apartments start at £119,950 www.pjlivesey-group.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 87

Open: 1 April 31 October 2015 Wednesday-Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays • 2-5pm

Sir Alfred Munnings (1878-1959) was a major figure in the great tradition of British horse painting and is celebrated for his scenes of English rural life. Immensely successful, yet controversial, he became the scourge of modern art in his position as President of the Royal Academy. Visitors to The Munnings Art Museum in his former home, Castle House, can explore the life and work of this prolific East Anglian artist.

Garden Cafe open 10am-5pm Adults: £6.50 Concessions: £5.00 Children: £1.00 Group visits by arrangement • Events and workshops • Car and coach parking free

THE MUNNINGS ART MUSEUM Castle Hill, Dedham, Colchester, Essex, CO7 6AZ • www.munningsmuseum.org.uk • 01206 322127 enquiries@munningsmuseum.org.uk • Registered Charity No 310671 NTR August listing (Arts East) #19.qxp_Layout 1 08/07/2015 14:27 Page 1

AUGUST

BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00

Wed 29 Jul - Sat 1 Aug PETER PAN RETURN TO NEVERLAND Youth theatre production of new family musical adventure £7 - £9

Dirty Dancing

Sun 2 Aug SING-A-LONG-A FROZEN Interactive screening of hit Disney film £7 - £16 Sat 15 Aug OPEN DAY Access all areas - see behind the scenes! Free Mon 17 - Sat 22 Aug ANNIE Favourite family musical £8 - £39.50 Tues 25 Aug - Sat 5 Sept DIRTY DANCING Worldwide smash-hit £8 - £48.5

Book online:Twww.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk H E AT R E ST R E E T, N O RW I C H N R 2 1 R L 88 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

ARTS

THE

ARTS COLUMN Written by Collette Hoefkens

Carol Saunderson The Flower Bed. Peter Clayton The Staithe

51 Norton Way, Letchworth Garden City, Herts, SG6 1BH. Tel: 01462 685139 The Summer Exhibition 2015 exhibits work from many of the gallery’s regular artists such as the beautifully detailed oil paintings of Alistair Butt RSMA, the intricate genre type coastal-scapes of Richard Dack RSMA and the delicate shoreline watercolours of Ian Piper PWS. This collection also gives the gallery the opportunity to introduce for the first time, Leicestershire’s Peter Clayton.

THE SUMMER APPEARS TO BE HONOURING ALL OF HER PROMISES THIS YEAR. With golden sunshine days, balmy evenings and the occasional quenching and terrifying storm, there appears to be an almost tropical landscape unfurling around us. Whether basking in the sunshine or striving to seek the shade, there will be an exhibition of enlightening, invigorating and regenerating art just around the corner from you. With so many wonderful galleries to choose from it is difficult to single out just one but I think my favourite this month has to be the annual group summer exhibition at the superb Sea Pictures Gallery in Suffolk. Nestled in the heart of Clare is a beautiful Georgian shop that is home to the Sea Pictures Gallery. Owned and run by Sarah and Alaric Pugh, the gallery is a trove of high quality original art. Specialising mainly in marine inspired work there is a continually changing exhibition focusing on maritime and marine subjects or pieces created by artists with links to the sea and an experience of the coastal way of life. Most of the gallery’s artists are from Wales, Sweden and the East of England.

Also on show is one of my favourite emerging contemporary artists, Carol Saunderson. Like Peter, Carol’s work is full of mystery and magical intrigue. Carefully chosen colours depict fields, woodland and sand dunes. Beautiful soft hues mingle and separate to form pathways, hedgerows and horizons. Carol’s paintings invite the viewer to enter a world mysterious atmosphere and harmony. All of the work in this excellent show is of exemplary standard and everyone is bound to find something that resonates with them. Once you have finished your viewing, there is still plenty to do in Clare. You could pay a visit to the Castle and Country Park or you could simply enjoy afternoon tea at the Clare House Hotel. The Summer Exhibition 2015 11 June - 14 August Sea Pictures Gallery Well House Well Lane Clare Suffolk CO10 8NH Tel: 01787 279024 www.seapicturesgallery.com eastlife.co.uk | 89

AUTUMN SEASON AT THEATRE ROYAL BURY ST EDMUNDS It’s a season that really does have it all – the Autumn offerings from the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds include a huge variety of shows plus the ever-popular pantomime. Sponsored by Beckett Financial Services, the season features drama, music, comedy and more and with some top names coming to the stage. Director of the Theatre Royal, Karen Simpson is directing one of the season’s highlights, the smart, sassy and sexy Miss Nightingale – The Musical, 30 September to 3 October, which will take audiences back to the 1940s.

DISCOVER CAMBRIDGE IN WATERCOLOUR Cambridge: The Watercolour Sketchbook by Graham Byfield and Marcus Binney, published by Laurence King this month, is the first watercolour sketchbook to fully document Cambridge’s plethora of architectural heritage — from the university to the river, its museums and churches to outlying villages. The perfect introduction to the city’s architectural heritage, the sketchbook gives visitors and residents insight into a wealth of sights, both grand and intimate in scale. Many facets of the university town and surrounds are recorded here, as Graham Byfield strolls with his sketchpad through college gateways, courts and gardens, along broad streets and narrow alleyways, into great ceremonial buildings and medieval pubs full of character. All of England’s architectural styles are well represented in Cambridge, and a sunny day spent wandering around the city can be intoxicating. Indeed, as writer Marcus Binney says: “If one city had to stand for all that is fine, inventive, lovely and sensitive in English architecture, it is Cambridge.” Accompanying the paintings and sketches are observations and notes handwritten by the artist, as well as an introduction to Cambridge by heritage expert Marcus Binney. Available in hardback, priced £19.95

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BAFTA-nominated Cathy Tyson (Mona Lisa, Band of Gold) stars in another season highlight, She Called Me Mother, about Trinidadian woman, Evangeline, on 11-12 November, while funny man, Patrick Kielty returns to his stand-up roots with a brand new show, on 8 November. The most hilarious of comedy duos, Jeeves and Wooster are in the house in Perfect Nonsense, from 2 to 5 September, as the West End smash hit, which is now on tour and heads this way. For full programme details and to book visit www.theatreroyal.org or call 01284 769505

ARTS

ARTS NEWS NEW ‘IN-RESIDENCE’ AND EVENTS AT SMITHS ROW This month ‘In-Residence’ at Smiths Row, Bury St Edmunds, presents the first solo exhibition and open studio with artist and musician Kate Jackson. Taking the format of a short-term residency in the gallery, the exhibition brings together Jackson’s painting and printmaking with her established practice as a singer and song-writer. Since studying Fine Art, Jackson has focussed her attention on painting, which connects her musical and artistic outputs. She continues to paint all of her single and album covers, which she first pursued as the lead-singer of indie band The Long Blondes. CAMBRIDGE ART FAIR RETURNS TO GUILDHALL Cambridge Art Fair returns to the Guildhall for its 3rd edition from 1 to 4 October, bringing another glittering selection of high quality, UK-based and international dealers and galleries to the eastern region. This is the only art fair outside of London where you can view and buy highly collectible paintings, prints and sculptures from the 18th, 19th and 20th Centuries alongside contemporary art by the leading artists of today. There will be work available to purchase by masters such as Picasso and Chagall, alongside beautiful original prints by the Great Bardfield group of Artists whose work fills the wonderful Fry Art Gallery in Saffron Walden.

During her open studio in the gallery, Jackson will work towards new paintings for her Abstract Brutalism series as well as artwork towards her forthcoming solo album, to explore in more depth the sources of inspiration, which intersect these disciplines. The exhibition and residency will culminate in the first public airing of ‘British Road Movies’ at an Album Listening Party. This exhibition extends In-Residence as an artist-focussed initiative to create new opportunities for artists in the region, strengthen connections and facilitate artistic networks. Foregrounding new commissioning and experimental approaches, the residency programme aims to offer foundational exhibitions of singular artists’ work. www.smithsrow.org

Come and add to your collection or buy your first original piece of art, confident that all of the work at the fair has been selected and vetted by the professional dealers and gallerists participating. Visit www.CambridgeArtFair.com and sign up to the mailing list quoting ‘EL-Aug’ to receive FREE TICKETS. Image credit: Senate House by Walter Hoyle

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ARTS

THROUGH THE LENS THEY SAY A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS, but have you ever wondered about the photographer capturing the moment?

St Edmundsbury Cathedral: Mark says: “One of my favourite Suffolk landmarks, the Bury St Edmunds cathedral is understandably a highly photogenic subject.” Southwold Pier: Mark says: “This is what photographers would call a ‘decisive moment shot’! As I positioned my camera to frame the inverted z-shape created by the pier and the sea foam, into the shot walked this little girl.”

You may have recently noticed a dazzling display of images in the pages of our 2015 Suffolk Guide; country landscapes, architecture and stunning sea views, all captured by the talented Mark Staples. We caught up with the photographer for a glance behind the scenes… Mark came to Suffolk in 1994 as a newly qualified teacher of Modern Languages and has remained there ever since. His interest in photography began in 2005, when Australian friends on a visit to Suffolk took some rather impressive images using a simple digital compact. Inspired by these images and having enjoyed drawing and painting as a youngster, Mark decided to pursue this newly discovered interest in digital photography by purchasing a digital compact. Wishing to learn more about the technical side of photography, it was not long before he bought his first digital SLR, which was promptly followed by a number of upgrades. “My photography is a complete hobby and helps me to maintain a work-life balance,” he says. “I particularly enjoy photographing monuments, landmarks and landscapes where architecture is a prominent feature, and the challenge is to find that interesting point of view or composition. I tend to favour strong, vibrant colours, and these have become a trademark of my work. “We are blessed with many such scenes in Suffolk, whether it be picture-postcard villages, coastal scenery or historic landmarks.” His favourite Suffolk photograph is of Westleton Heath due to its vibrant carpet of heather.

Aldeburgh Beach: Mark says: “Fishing boats tend to make very pleasing subjects. This one, with a single lobster pot not too far away, made for an eye-catching, low-positioned shot.”

Mark’s images have been widely published in local and national magazines, on postcards, in calendars, travel guides, books and tourist brochures, both here and abroad. His 2016 charity calendar, ‘Images of Suffolk’, is now available. Details of this and Mark’s portfolio of Suffolk photos can be found on his website at www.markstaples.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 93

NORFOLK

What’s on in

THEATRE & SHOWS 1-5 Aug The Late Edwina Black The day before Edwina Black’s funeral, an inspector calls to interview her brow-beaten husband, her long suffering companion and her faithful housekeeper. Could it have been murder? The atmosphere of jealousy and suspicion becomes stifling. Love turns to hate in this powerful and dramatic story of revenge! Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 4-26 Aug Summer Laughter Show This is the longest running Summer Season in the UK in an intimate cabaret style setting with a drinks service at your table. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 6-Aug Crocodiles in Cream ‘Crocodiles in Cream’ is a stunning portrait of Lewis Carroll drawing from his diaries, letters, poems and stories. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 8-Aug Jimmy Jones During 30 years of outrage - Jimmy Jones has become Britain’s most successful live comedians. The master of comic timing plays around 275 sell out live shows every year. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 8-Aug Crocodiles in Cream A portrait of Lewis Carroll drawing from his diaries, letters, poems and stories, taking the audience into the world, half-dream, half-reality of this complex many-sided figure. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 9-Aug Northanger Abbey With a cast of six actors and a cleverly comedic adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel, DOT Productions lead you on a humorous Gothic journey. Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss, IP22 4LB. 01379 652241 15-Aug Intellectual Hooligans The show will consist of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” games based on audience suggestions. Prior to the show, there will be a one hour workshop open to anyone wishing to try their hand at improv. Maddermarket Theatre,

Norfolk EDITOR’S CHOICE

River Wavney Sculpture Trail Fri 14 Aug– Sun 6 Sept ver 30 fascinating sculpO tures and site-specific installations in the beautiful

unspoilt landscape at the River Waveney Trust site at Earsham, Bungay NR35 2AF organised by Waveney & Blyth Arts. Discover work on every imaginable scale, medium and character – from marble swan to crocheted lichen and sculptures of creatures welded from agricultural relics. Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Bank Holiday Monday. 10am to 4pm Entry charge : £4 (£3 for Waveney & Blyth Arts and/or River Waveney Trust members). Under 18s free. Photo credit - Jayne Ivimey

St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 15-Aug Theatre Open Day See the dressing rooms where the stars prepare for their performances. Stand centre stage in the spotlight. Have a go at lighting, sound, ‘flying’ and stage management. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 17-22 Aug 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. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 19-Aug Joe Pasquale Last year Joe and his twin brother Raynard opened a chip shop with the Dalai Lama in Skegness, called Batter Me, I’m Yours! But due to an accident with a pickled egg the Lama pulled out and opened a rival chip shop called the Dalai’s Deep Sea Sausage, which resulted in a surf and turf war, it was savaloys at 40 paces. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 19-Aug Outdoor Theatre: Twelfth Night A joyous tale of love, longing, laughter and mischief, mayhem and mistaken identity, set in fair Illyria. Holkham Hall Holkham, NR23 1AB. 01328 710227 20-29 Aug Murder on the Nile A clergyman, a young couple on their honeymoon, and a bevy of other memorable characters, gather aboard a paddle-steamer cruising down the Nile. When one of the tourists is murdered, everyone becomes a suspect and a detective. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 24-28 Aug Afternoon at the Seaside This short play is a gentle comedy built on some fun, entertaining stock Agatha Christie characters, including a siren in a bikini, ogling men and envious women. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 25 Aug - 5 Sept Dirty Dancing Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story On Stage is an unprecedented live experience, exploding with heart-pounding music, passionate romance and sensationally sexy dancing. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 25-29 Aug Grease With one of the most famous scores ever, including You’re The One That I Want, Summer Lovin’, Hopelessly Devoted To You and of course Greased Lightning, you are guaranteed an incredible evening’s entertainment. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 26-Aug Outdoor Theatre: Robin Hoodthe Musical

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NORFOLK There is perhaps no more iconic tale set in the English countryside than that of Robin Hood and his band of merry men. Holkham Hall, Holkham, NR23 1AB. 01328 710227 28-29 Aug Two An evening in a pub somewhere in the North of England, presided over by the Landlord and Landlady trying to keep their marriage afloat, visited by an assortment of characters and oddballs who pass through the doors and allow us a short glimpse of their fractured lives. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 MUSIC 8-Aug The Floyd Effect ‘The Floyd Effect’ has become rightly renowned for the remarkable accuracy with which it performs the iconic music of Pink Floyd. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 9-Aug Round-the-World Tour in Music St. Gregory’s Orchestra offers a lively programme of music by six different composers. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 9-Aug Westcoast Beach Boys Not another tribute act, they are a complete entertainment experience celebrating the iconic music of The Beach Boys. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 9-Aug Tennesse Stud The band plays traditional and western country music with covers of songs by Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Garth Brooks and others in and around Lincolnshire. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-theSea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 13-Aug The Golden Days of Hollywood Join vocalists Jeff and Sue Short and their musicians as they take you back to the heyday of the Hollywood Musical. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU 01328 710193 15-Aug 60s Icons 60s Icons in Concert starring Jes Conrad OBE Golden Boy of the 60s. You will sing - dance and rock with laughter. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 21-Aug Pennyless Pennyless will take you from Olde England, through Ireland, Scotland and across the water to Old Timey America, with lively traditional tunes on a variety of acoustic instruments.

The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 21-Aug A Celebration of Neil Diamond Come dressed for this Seventies revival, sing, dance and lose yourself in what promises to be an evening of Diamond songs, great stage production and delivered by world class performers. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 22-Aug The Simon and Garfunkel Story Using huge projection photos and original film footage, The Simon and Garfunkel Story also features a full live band performing all their hits. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 30-Aug Absolution With three musicians from different backgrounds and different styles, Absolution create a fresh and exciting sound. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU 01328 710193 30-Aug Barron Knights Apart from the old favourites like call Up The Groups they play their inimitable version of the William Tell Overture and their Flamenco party piece Malaguana. Their parody of Killer Queen about will Camilla be queen and the hilarious take on of Windmills of your mind about what happens to your body as you get older. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 30-Aug Last Night Of The Proms The magnificent setting of the south park at Holkham is also the backdrop to the Last Night of the Proms Concert. The English National Philharmonic Orchestra will perform popular classical music. Holkham Hall, Holkham, NR23 1AB. 01328 710227 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1 Aug - 27 Sept Abstraction of the Art of John Golding A survey of abstraction from the Sainsbury Centre collections and paintings by renowned artist, curator and art historian John Golding. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 593199 5 Aug - 9 Sept Summer Exhibition A vibrant annual summer exhibition featuring works by selected artists. Jewellery by Ulla Hornfeldt. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 7-19 Aug Nigel Moody The exhibition will be found in the East

Anglian Fine Art section of the gallery, in combination with the mixed exhibition in the front sections of the gallery. Picturecraft Gallery, 23 Lees Yard, Holt, NR25 6HS. 01263 711 040 SPECIAL EVENTS 6-7 Aug Feast on the Street Experience some new taste sensations, or indulge in your favourite street food fayre The traders change regularly so there’s always something new to try. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF 7-Aug Summer Fireworks at Great Yarmouth Every Wednesday evening for seven weeks the skies over Great Yarmouth are illuminated with our fantastic summer firework spectacular. Seafront, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2EN. 01493 846346 8-Aug The Blickling Proms Open air, picnic style, classical concert with choreographed air display by the Grace Spitfire. Blickling, Norwich, NR11. 01263 223500 9-Aug Water Festival at Downham Market The Downham Market Water Festival and Dragon Boat Race has been celebrated on the banks of the Great Ouse Relief Channel for the past six years. Stalls, a fun fair and of course lots of fun out on the water! Town Centre, Downham Market, PE38 9 01366 387770 11-Aug Gamekeeper Discovery Day Join in the Walled Gardens for a wonderful opportunity to meet our gamekeepers and to find out about the work of a modern day gamekeeper on the Holkham Estate. Holkham Hall, Holkham, NR23 1AB 01328 710227 21-Aug Vintage & Retro Sale Rail A fashion and accessories sale. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 8-Aug Norfolk’s Antiques & Collectors Fair Dealers in glass, ceramics, vintage tools, small furniture and more. Community Centre, Avenue Road, Hunstanton. 07501 782821 12-Aug Antique & General Great Yarmouth Salerooms, Beevor Road, Great Yarmouth, NR30 3QQ 19-Aug Antiques, Collectables, Household Furniture & Effects The Auction Rooms, 15 Lynn Road Downham Market, PE38 9NL

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Mannington Hall = 9x2 = APR15_Layout 1 18/03/2015 14:24 Page

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AREA FOCUS

DISCOVER

KING’S LYNN

Photography courtesy of Borough Council of King’s Lynn & west Norfolk.

AT THE HEART OF WEST NORFOLK, King’s Lynn is renowned for its beautiful countryside and stunning coastline.

the regular guided walks with the King’s Lynn Town Guides. Walks run regularly on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday afternoons from May through to October.

Explore King’s Lynn and you will discover a town full of maritime and trading history. The historic Hanseatic town boasts a wealth of magnificent buildings and architecture.

Visit the Tourist Information Centre and maritime displays at the Custom House to find out more about a host of places such as True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum and nearby St Nicholas’ Chapel, Lynn Museum, King’s Lynn Arts Centre and Galleries, Lynn Museum, King’s Lynn Minster, Marriott’s Warehouse, Greyfriars Tower and Gardens or the classic 18th century town park known as ‘The Walks’ where you can indulge yourself in discovering more of King’s Lynn rich history and heritage.

King’s Lynn was one of England’s most important ports from as early as the 12th century and this maritime past is still very much in evidence today. Fine old merchants’ houses stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House overlooks the original medieval harbour. At the heart of the medieval old town, magnificent King’s Lynn Minster dominates the Saturday Market Place around which is some fine architecture including the distinctive Trinity Guildhall and historic Town Hall complex. A great way to explore the town is to follow the King’s Lynn Maritime Trail (trail guides are available from the Tourist Information Centre), or join one

In the evening marvel at Lynn Lumiere, a series of six amazing animated light shows of some of King’s Lynn most prominent buildings or be sure to visit on 13 September for the King’s Lynn Heritage Open Day when around 50 historic buildings open their doors to the public and a whole host of classic cars and bikes come to King’s Lynn for a special ‘classics’ rally.

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Visit Knights Hill Farm Shop today to see the vast range of delicious local produce we have on offer. You will also find a butchers counter, freshly baked bread, plants, a variety of pickles and jams and much, much more! Grimston Road, South Wootton, Kings Lynn, PE30 3HQ 01553 674212

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AREA FOCUS From the 1 August, the Indoor Market, situated in the gorgeous Hanse House, will reopen. Now under new management, the opening will take place by the Mayor and Mayoress at 10am and from there on will be open seven days a week, 10am to 4pm. It also features a new tearoom! Hanse House is currently looking for artists and photographers to fill its wall with local artwork. While visiting be sure to stop by The Rathskeller Wine Bar and Bistro for a bite to eat. WHAT’S ON Water ski racing on the Ouse, 22-23 Aug King’s Lynn’s historic waterfront will once again be buzzing with activity this summer when Hunstanton Ski Club host their first ever Hanseatic Ski Race on the River Great Ouse. Never before has Formula 1, 2 and 3 water ski racing taken place on this river. King’s Lynn Classic Car Day, 13 September The King’s Lynn Classic Car Day will make a welcome return to the Tuesday Market Place this September after a successful inaugural year. Last year the event attracted over 200 exhibitors and saw iconic vehicles like a Model T Ford, e-type Jaguar and Ford Mustang on display alongside the Cooper Car – the only surviving example of six cars made at the Cooper factory in King’s Lynn in the early 1900s. This year is set to be an absolute must for motor enthusiasts! Why not take the opportunity to: Hop on the pedestrian ferry from Ferry Lane to cross the River Great Ouse to West Lynn for one of the best views of historic King’s Lynn. Pick up a copy of Discover King’s Lynn to explore a host of heritage attractions and stunning buildings. Explore King’s Lynn on the self guided Pilgrimage Trail or the Hanseatic Trail. Step inside Lynn’s last two surviving fisherfolk cottages and an original Victorian smokehouse at True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum. Take in a show at the Corn Exchange and visit King’s Lynn Arts Centre. Explore South Quay, with its new pontoons for visiting boats and a choice of bar and restaurants to get a bite to eat. Enjoy the town’s extensive pedestrianised shopping area at the heart of the town combining historic streets with the more modern Vancouver Quarter. For more info visit www.west-norfolk.gov.uk

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MAGICIAN JOSH HAYMAN PRIVATE PARTIES/CORPORATE EVENTS/CHILDRENS PARTIES 6 YEARS AS RESIDENT MAGICIAN AT HAMLEYS FLAGSHIP STORE OWNER OF MAGIC BOX... THE FESTIVAL MAGIC SHOP

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In addition to our normal pharmacy products we carry Quality Gift Lines such as: Manicure Sets, Unusual Hair Decoration, Good Selection of Cosmetic Mirrors and Perfume Bottles, Cosmetic Bags, Magnetic & Copper Bracelets Mason & Pearson and Kent Hair Brushes, 65 High Street, King’s Lynn Tuesday Market Corner Telephone 01553 772828

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With over 42 years of experience in trading and installing unique solutions. Supply only also available. We have gained a renowned reputation as being the best in the King’s lynn and West Norfolk area. NATIONAL BATHROOM SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR 2000

t: 01553 631915 Open: Monday to Saturday 10am - 4.30pm w: www.allezchic.co.uk e: cheryldaubney@allezchic.co.uk

1 STONEGATE STREET, KING’S LYNN, NORFOLK, PE30 5EF Tel: 01553 775 046 - Fax: 01553 767 007 www. kingslynnbathroomandkitchencentre.com

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eastlife.co.uk | 105

Acle Bridge ACLE BRIDGE GENERAL STORE

We serve hot & cold food and drinks and home baked pasties and pies. Delicious cakes & pastries. We also stock all provisions, including fresh fruit & vegetables, gifts, sweets & chocolates, newspapers, magazines, toys & toiletries Old Road, Acle, Norfolk, NR13 3AT | 01493 750355 PERMANENT & CASUAL MOORING AND TOILET FACILITIES AVAILABLE

Norfolk Broads Self-Drive

ts a o B y Da

Day Boat Hire

A FINE WAY TO SPEND A DAY Enjoy a trip on the Norfolk Broads in one of our easy-todrive all-weather heated* launches. These craft will seat from two to eleven people and are available by the hour, day or evening. Full tuition given if required.

Fineway Leisure Moonfleet Marine Wroxham 01603 782 309 The Rhond, Wroxham, NR12 8UD finewayleisure.co.uk

Stalham 01692 580 288 The Staithe, Stalham, NR12 9DA moonfleetmarine.co.uk

* Heated launches Wroxham only. Subject to availability. 106 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

AREA FOCUS

DISCOVER THE

BROADS IT’S THE ONLY NATIONAL PARK with a city in it, it’s man-made, and it featured in a David Bowie classic; it is of course, the Norfolk Broads the UK’s Magical Waterland. The Broads are probably what Norfolk is best known for, over 125 miles of navigable lock-free waterways set in beautiful countryside with many charming and picturesque towns and villages. The big skies and sparkling landscape of marshland fields, feathery reeds and tangled woodlands are a perfect canvas for adventure and relaxation - time to reflect, space to explore, a great opportunity to enjoy a fabulous break. The Norfolk Broads may look natural, but are a man-made phenomenon, the result of inundated peat diggings. It was only in the 1950s that a local girl, by then a lecturer at Southampton University, Dr Joyce Lambert, came up with the novel theory that this area, with its patchwork of lakes and rivers, wasn’t inundated valleys but was instead man-made.

Today the Norfolk Broads can still evoke a sense of disbelief in new visitors. For those wishing to discover more about its fascinating history visit the Museum of the Broads where you can see how the mystery was solved and the tools used in traditional trades, including thatching. Without a doubt, the best way to discover the Broads is by boat. So much of the Broads can’t be reached by road that days and nights afloat become a real adventure, with hidden places, perfect fishing spots and close encounters with wildlife at every turn. The famous Broads motor cruisers have been holiday favourites since the 1930s, and today’s boats have all the comforts of home on board, so even if you prefer to visit during the quieter, cooler months, you’ll have a cosy base for your explorations. With fresh air, sparkling water and wide horizons by day, and wonderfully dark, starry nights, a boating holiday on the Broads is an unforgettable experience. eastlife.co.uk | 107

Royal Air Force Air Defence Radar Museum Registered Charity 1058887

RRH Neatishead, Nr Horning, Norwich, Norfolk, NR12 8YB Tel: 01692 631485

Hav e a great day out and learn how Radar helped shape British history! Housed in the original WW II Operations block, the Museum traces the history of the RAF Air Defence Radar network from the Battle of Britain through the “Cold War” right up to today. Visit the actual “Cold War” Sector Radar Operations Room and RAF Coltishall Rooms plus much, much more for all the family!

Open the Second Saturday of ev ery month as well as every Tuesday and Thursday and Bank Holiday Mondays, April to Nov ember From 10am to 5pm (the last Tour starts at 3pm) Adults - £8.00 Concessions - £7.00 Children [7 - 18] - £5.00 Family [2 adults and up to 3 children] - £20.00 Under 7s - FREE

Allow at least 3 hours for your visit!

DID YOU KNOW? You can get Eastlife Magazine one whole week early !

www.radarmuseum.co.uk

THE NELSON HEAD

The Street, Horsey, Great Yarmouth NR29 4AD tel 01493 393378

2 Hour Skippered Sails Only £60 for up to 4 people Cabin Yacht Hire

Open all day - every day from 11am (12 on Sundays) till late

RYA Sailing Tuition Levels 1, 2, 3 and Seamanship Courses

Food all day - all summer

Half-Decker (Day Boat) Hire

Traditional country pub with a warm welcome and large open fire when it's cold, huge beer garden for when it's warm. Walks extending around the broads and down to the sea. The best access to see the seal colony.

Learn to Sail Holidays

Good fresh local food cooked to order, all day, till the end of the summer.

Child & Dog Friendly

(well behaved ones, on a lead and in the bar only please... the dogs that is)

108 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

Corporate Sailing Days

Tel: 01692 678263 www.huntersyard.co.uk

Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QG

AREA FOCUS There are plenty of places along the meandering waterways for you to moor up and hop out to explore pretty villages and market towns, or to stop at a welcoming pub. We’d recommend The Fur & Feather at Woodbastwick, brewery tap of Norfolk’s Woodforde’s (there are brewery tours), The Ferry Inn at Stokesby and The Bridge at Acle, but whichever stretch you’re on, you’ll find a warm welcome and great local food. Stop off at Wroxham too and visit Roy’s, the largest village store in the world. Cycling and walking are also excellent ways to explore the Broads, but whichever method of transport you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy unrivalled wildlife spotting, tranquillity, visual beauty and the Broads’ distinctive character. Contrast that with a visit to Norwich, within the boundaries of the Broads, which makes this the only National Park with a city in it. Norwich is a wonderful fusion of the modern and historic, one complementing the other. Like any great city its centre is easy to walk around and has a river at its heart. As well as being the most complete medieval city in the UK, it has a flourishing arts, music and cultural scene, superb independent as well as High Street shopping, lively restaurants and bars and a heritage that is a delight to explore. The city’s historic street layout is wonderfully haphazard, but there’s no need to get lost, just look for the obvious landmarks – the spire of the majestic Norman Cathedral, the domineering castle on its tall mound and City Hall’s clock tower. If it’s sights and attractions you’re after, then Norwich doesn’t disappoint. The city has the largest undercover market in Europe, open six days a week. Nearby is the glass-fronted Forum, where you’ll find the Tourist Information Centre. There are also many museums and theatres, ancient pubs, cobbled streets such as Elm Hill, Timber Hill and Tombland, ancient buildings such as St Andrew’s Hall, half-timbered houses such as Dragon Hall, The Guildhall and Strangers’ Hall, the Art Nouveau delight of the 1899 Royal Arcade, a jumble of medieval lanes and a delightful riverside along the winding Wensum. The city is a shopper’s paradise, with two shopping centres and four department stores, many independent stores and boutiques in the quaint Lanes and Timber Hill. Rated in the Top 10 UK shopping destinations, you’ll soon realise why! And David Bowie? Just listen to the lyrics of Life on Mars… Article courtesy of Visit Norfolk. Check out their video at www.visitnorfolk.co.uk/explore/Broads. aspx STILL NEED MORE? Download the Eastlife App from the App store for additional content. eastlife.co.uk | 109

Rosy Lee’s Tearoom

• Daily Seasonal Specials Menu. • Local Produce & Suppliers,

VOTED 7th BE ST TEA RO OM IN THE COU BY THE NTRY TIMES

including Local Fish. • Concession Prices for Senior Citizens. • Fully Wi-Fi Enabled.

• Disabled Access.

• Conscientious Recyclers!

• Open All year Round.

• Exotic & Exciting Home Cooked Food, Including Soups & Puddings. • Traditional Favourites inc. All Day English Breakfast and Lemon Meringue Pie • Home Made Cakes from our Own Kitchen and the Local WI!

37a Bridge Street, Loddon, NR14 6NA Tel: 01508 520204 Visit our beautiful Picnic Place - Child, dog, disabled and cyclist friendly

Gooderstone Water Gardens & Nature Trail What could be nicer than to stroll through an enchanting garden, explore the nature trail,

where the views are as good as the food...

perhaps spot a kingfisher and enjoy delicious home-made cakes.

Filby Bridge Restaurant We offer a fabulous a la carte menu with a superb variety of fresh fish plus an excellent lunchtime menu and superb coffee & cakes.

Garden open DAILY all year. Tearoom open every day until 4th October Children 16 and under FREE & Dogs on leads allowed Coaches and group visits welcome by appointment. Discounts on request.

You just need to vist us to experience great food!

All enquiries please call Coral Hoyos Tel: 01603 712 913 & 07730 551 945

Main Road, Filby, Gt.Yarmouth NR29 3AA

Gooderstone Water Gardens & Nature Trail, Gooderstone, PE33 9BP

Tel: 01493 368142 www.filbybridgerestaurant.com 110 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

coral@sunnycottage.plus.com www.gooderstonewatergardens.co.uk

MUSEUM OF THE BROADS www.museumofthebroads.org.uk The Staithe, Stalham, Norfolk, NR12 9DA Tel: 01692 581681

£505

A River Nene Adventure

MAKE YOUR OWN VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY ALONG ONE OF ENGLAND’S LOVELIEST RIVERS

Adventures on the River Nene start from £505 Book online or call to reserve yours.

Marshmen, Wildlife, Local History & Boats Family and Dog Friendly, Group Bookings Welcome Open Easter to End of October River Trips on Victorian Steam Launch Falcon Tues, Wed & Thurs

www.nenevalleyboatholidays.com £505 Nene Valley Boats, Oundle Marina Village Barnwell Road, Oundle PE8 5PA

Boat Hire and Tours on the Magical Trinity Broad Guided Boat Tours on Gentlemen Jim Paddle and Electric Dinghy Hire Picnic Boat Trips on Lady Belinda* Wheel Chair Accessible Boat Hire* Fishing Boat Hire * pre-book essential please

Open 7 days a week from 10am - 5pm (summer months) Plus delightful waterfront cafe with sun terrace serving brunch, lunch and afternoon tea** ** pre-book recommended for afternoon teas.

Children's play area, putting and nature watch The Waterside Rollesby tel 01493 740531 www.thewatersiderollesby.co.uk Main Rd, Rollesby, Norfolk NR29 5EF

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Explore historic Cambridge by bus Departures throughout the year Why not make the most of your visit to Cambridge by booking a City Sightseeing tour on our open-top buses. Tickets are available online, or buy your ticket on the bus.Tours include a free map, and pre-recorded audio is available in multiple languages.

Stops include: n n n

For more information

Cambridge University Botanic Garden 01223 433250 American Military Cemetery Silver Street - The Backs (inc Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College)

www.citysightseeing-cambridge.com CSS_April 2014 - 168x240.indd 1

23/01/2014 15:16:14

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

What’s on in

Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 31 Jul - 1 Aug Wing It Dusty ‘Wing it, Dusty’ tells the story of Deirdre and Roni who make the perfect couple. Maybe. Deirdre wishes Roni was Julie Andrews; Roni wishes Marni Nixon had dubbed Pierce Brosnan in Mamma Mia. They don’t even have the same taste in music except for the divine Dusty. A high-camp, low-brow comedy. Corpus Playroom, Park Street Cambridge, CB5 8AS . 01223 300085 3-22 Aug Much Ado About Nothing This sharp and witty battle of the sexes, set in the stunning gardens of Trinity College, tells of the effervescent Beatrice – determined never to marry – and the confirmed bachelor, Benedick, and the efforts of their friends to bring them together in the most unlikely of unions. Trinity College Gardens, Cambridge, CB2 1TQ. 07955 218824 3-22 Aug A Midsummer’s Night Dream The beautiful gardens of St John’s College form the perfect setting for Shakespeare’s delightful fairytale world of love, jealousy and youthful exuberance. This captivating production brings to life all the magic and humour of Shakespeare’s best-loved play. St John’s College Gardens, Queens Road, Cambridge. 07955 218824 3-29 Aug Timon of Athens When the overly generous Timon realises he’s given away too many of his worldly goods to people he thinks are his friends, he becomes disillusioned when no one will help when he finds himself in need of support. Despondent, he exiles himself into the forest where he stumbles upon a vast treasure. But this time his plans for the new-found fortune are less than altruistic. Robinson College Gardens, Cambridge. 07955 218824 3-29 Aug Macbeth In the breathtakingly magnificent setting of King’s College Gardens, as dusk turns towards night, the forces that orchestrate Macbeth’s final decent into the abyss are once again set in motion. This moon-bathed and dynamic production brings together

EDITOR’S CHOICE

16 August Summer Season of Open Air Shakespeare at The Varsity Hotel & Spa special way to enjoy the Bard’s work, the rooftop theatre will be held on Sunday 16 August and feature scenes from Much Ado About Nothing and Romeo and Juliet alongside recitals of Shakespeare’s Sonnets against the beautiful backdrop of the breath-taking Cambridge skyline. Attendees can enjoy a glass of bubbles on the roof whilst taking in the performance before tucking in to a post-theatre three course repast at The Varsity’s in-house restaurant next door, The River Bar Steakhouse & Grill. Presented by the Cambridge Shakespeare Festival. Tickets £30 pp.

the themes of madness, the thirst for power, and the darkness of the supernatural before reaching an explosive conclusion. King’s College Gardens, Cambridge, 07955 218824 3-7 Aug and 10-14 Aug Summer Holiday: Musical Challenge Workshop Four bus mechanics borrow a double decker bus to go to the South of France for a holiday. They meet three girls whose car had broken down and agree to take them to Athens for their singing gig. Then they pick up a young American boy who turns out to be a girl who has run away from her very bossy mother. And so the story continues, but towards a happy ending. Angels Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 474447

6-Aug Treasure Island with The Pantaloons Join Jim Hawkins as he spins his yarn of plotting pirates and potty parrots. Featuring a cast of just three actors playing all the characters - including the infamous Long John Silver. John Clare Cottage, Helpston, Peterborough, PE6 7ED. 01733 253330 17-22 Aug Talking Heads This is a rare opportunity to see three of the original Talking Heads at once. Darkly comic, poignant and uplifting and widely regarded as modern classics. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 19-22 Aug Into the Woods Les Misérables (2013) and West Side Story (2014), the talented youth of KYT return with Stephen Sondheim’s classic macabre twist on fairy tale folklore, giving you a different side of the stories you’re used to. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 21-Aug Much Ado Nothing On the contrary; there’s a lot to shout about in The Pantaloons’ take on Shakespeare’s timeless summer comedy of masks, music and mistaken identities. A fast-paced, physical and funny new production. John Clare Cottage, Helpston, Peterborough, PE6 7ED. 01733 253330 22-Aug Junkyard: Houseparty This summer see Cambridge Junction transform, as stages become lounges and foyers become kitchens - the hub of any good house party - the very finest the East has to offer in visual artists, live bands, acoustic sets, DJs and spoken word poets across four spaces. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 24-29 Aug And Then There Were None A group of 10 strangers are lured to a remote island off the coast of Devon. Upon arrival it is discovered that their host, an eccentric millionaire, is missing. Stranded on the island by a torrential storm and haunted by an ancient nursery rhyme, one by one the guests begin to die…Cambridge Arts Theatre,

eastlife.co.uk | 113

This summer we are inviting you to Love Summer - come to Cambridge from late July through August & enjoy a jampacked summer of activities!

Fun activities for all the family RDAYS SUPER SATU

MEET & GREET

, painting free face dy bags and Includes goo s nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; re re ket Squa ills, child the Mar circus sk place at ng ki ta e mor

Meet Adam the Ambassa dor our friendly official mascot in the Market Square

FUN FAMILY WAL

Free Fun Family W alks (bookin g essen tial)

For more information on dates and full schedule of what is going on please visit our website...

/CambridgeBID

t @CityAmbassadors t @CambridgeBID

114 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

#LovingCambridge

CAMBRIDGESHIRE St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 25-30 Aug Much Ado About Nothing Driven along by a romance all the more charming for being in denial, Much Ado About Nothing is a miracle of comic and dramatic suspense and gives us, in the bantering Beatrice and Benedick, two of Shakespeare’s wittiest, most endearing pair of lovers. The Master’s Garden Corpus Christi College. Cambridge. 01223 503333 MUSIC 1-Aug Sir Willard White & Friends The Cambridge Summer Music Festival 2015 Finale concert is a very special event indeed, featuring the charismatic bass-baritone Sir Willard White in an evening of solo songs and duets, with soprano Claire Booth and accompanist Andrew Matthews-Owen. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184 1-23 Aug Music on the Waits Eight free Concerts of Music on The Waits. A variety of bands play on Sunday afternoons from 2.30pm to 4 pm. The Waits, The Old Riverport, St Ives, PE27 5BX 8-Aug Derek Gripper: African Guitar Concert Derek Gripper is one of the most exciting guitarists on the world stage. He has arranged and performed on classical guitar the compositions of legendary Mali musicians Toumani Diabate and Ali Farka Toure. Stapleford Granary, Bury Road, Stapleford, CB22 5BP. 01223 845599 19-Aug Pennyless in the Garden with Hogroast Pennyless the local folk group will be playing traditional tunes in the gardens of the John Clare. Their music includes tunes from the time of Clare together with their own music. John Clare Cottage, Helpston, Peterborough, PE6 7ED. 01733 253330 22-Aug Day Release Super Disco A DJ, producer, remixer, label owner, re-edit king, Ashley Beedle has been fighting the cause for the good groove since his musical career began in earnest in the ‘80s. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 23-Aug Ouse Valley Jazz Band with Angela Enjoy Summer Bands in glorious parkland at 2.30pm - 4.30pm. Riverside Park, St Neots 23-Aug Youngblood Brass Band Youngblood Brass Band flouts conven

ion in an ecstatic, raucous, incendiary fashion, taking the form of a New Orleans brass band and morphing it into a punked-out hip-hop behemoth of groove and purpose. The Junction Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511

Yard, Jim Ede’s belief in the importance of creating balance in spaces to enhance the beauty of the works of art and objects that they contain. Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900

27-Aug Open Mic Session You are invited to come along to the Café at the John Clare Cottage to play your instruments, sing or listen to other performers. The evening will be led by the Reverend Dave Maylor (Blues Guitar). John Clare Cottage, Helpston, Peterborough, PE6 7ED. 01733 253330 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 4 Jul - 31 Aug Mixed Exhibition An exhibition featuring some of the gallery’s most popular artists and new artists to Cambridge. Cambridge Contemporary Art, 6 Trinity Street, Cambridge, CB2 1SU. 01223 324 222 1-31 Aug Glassblowing Gallery Open Stewart Hearn uses his accumulation of specialist knowledge, creative passion and a philosophy that celebrates the value of traditional glassmaking skills. He creates quality glass which captures his unique identity. Every Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 10am 1pm. London Glassworks, High Street Chatteris, PE16 6NN. 01354 278 084

25 Aug - 24 Sept Jason Duckmanton – One for Sorrow This exhibition of original Illustrations from Jason Duckmanton explores the imagery conjured by these rhymes along with the hidden subtext. City Gallery, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LF. 01733 207239

1-28 Aug Art Exhibition held by Cambridge District Art Circle The Exhibition will have both framed and unframed work, as well as cards. Grantchester Village Hall, High Street, Grantchester, CB3 9NF. 075471 56600 8-Aug Open Craft Day Come to John Clare Cottage where you will find potters, spinners, weavers, jewellery makers, woodturners, embroidery and textile workers and many more, looking forward to showing and selling their work. John Clare Cottage, Helpston, Peterborough, PE6 7ED. 01733 253330 11-16 Aug Babylon Summer Exhibition First Open Summer Exhibition will display works in a variety of mediums and genres by any artist of any age, professional and amateur. Over the five weeks it’s a chance for visitors to browse, buy and discuss the works on show. Babylon Gallery, Waterside Ely, CB7 4AU. 01353 616991 13 Aug - 30 Apr Beauty and Balance In the first of two displays at the Fitzwilliam Museum key arrangements from Kettle’s Yard’s house will be recreated in the Glaisher Gallery. These groupings of art works and other objects reflect the founder of Kettle’s

SPECIAL EVENTS 23 Jul - 23 Sept Summer at the Museums This summer, family fun and adventure are just around the corner as museums in Cambridge and beyond offer a jam-packed programme of creative activities, events and trails. Various across Cambridge city and county Cambridgeshire, CB2 1RB 1-31 Aug Ely Craft & Collectables Market Every Saturday all year round, Ely’s Craft & Collectables Market offers a great range of stalls offering a cornucopia of arts, crafts, vintage, bric-a-brac, collectables, jewellery, flowers, food and drink and more. Market Place, Ely, CB7 4NT. 01353 665555 23-Aug Nature Explorers Have a go at pond dipping, try the self guided nature trails and scavenger hunts. There’s also adventure rucksacks to hire for children. RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes, CB24 4QG. 01954 233260 29-Aug St. Neots: Dragon Boat & Summer Festival Lots of family fun and free to attend. Fundraising Dragon Boat Race, live entertainment, market stalls, funfair and more! Regatta Meadow, St Neots PE19 7LH. 01480 388912 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 2-Aug Barkway Antiques & Vintage Fair The fair has 20+ stalls which offer a wide range of antique and vintage wares. Barkway Village Hall, Cambridge Road, SG8 8BS. 07720 647696 5-Aug Household Effects Grounds & Co. 2 Nene Quay, Wisbech PE13 1AQ. 01945 585041 30-31 Aug St Ives Antiques Fair Providing a spacious hall for over 55 specialist dealers. New dealers welcome. The Burgess Hall (One Leisure), Westwood Road, St Ives, PE27 6WU. 01480 896866

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Thursday GOLF SPECIAL: 18 Holes for only £15 Bourn LOGO A4 RUNOUT 2010.indd 1

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Pitch & Putt SUMMER SPECIAL: £5pp all day Available throughout July and August 55 Market Street, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4LP

TO BOOK YOUR GAME CALL 01954 718057

www.elycomputers.co.uk

InSpIreD Summer DInIng

Under the Personal rsonal supervision of principals principals, Tina Pilgrim & Donna Buc Buchanan

Classes for children's grades & vocational levels in Classical ballet, modern theatre, contemporary & tap dance Teaching faculty are all fully qualified and CRB checked & include examiners of the Royal Academy of Dance,

Open daily for morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, cocktails, Sunday lunch and al fresco dining.

Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing & Professionals from Theatre & Classical Companies

Choose from our award-winning graffiti restaurant, light and airy Orangery or garden Terrace.

For further details, Please contact 01223 356023 or email us at king.slocombe@tesco.net www.kingslocombe.com 8 Emmanuel Road, Cambridge, CB1 1JW

~ Stylishly Different ~ WHiTEHOuSE LAnE, HunTinGdOn ROAd, CAMBRidGE, CB3 0LX

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116 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY King Slocombe.indd 1

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2 - 4 October Guildhall, Cambridge

CambridgeArtFair.com Get your FREE TICKETS:

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AREA FOCUS

EXPLORE THE RIVER GREAT OUSE & THE OUSE WASHES by Sara Marshall

ON ITS JOURNEY FROM CENTRAL ENGLAND, the River Great Ouse, the fourth longest river in the UK, makes its way through the heart of Cambridgeshire visiting some of the most beautiful towns and villages. It also takes in the character and immense beauty of the Ouse Washes Landscape, a hugely important area of rich washland with internationally significant wildlife habitats and significant drainage engineering heritage. ST NEOTS Just within the Cambridgeshire border with Bedfordshire, you will find the charming riverside town of St Neots. Here you can visit the award-winning St Neots Museum, which tells the story of the town from prehistoric times to the present day. There are several beautiful green spaces to enjoy including Riverside Park, set amongst huge weeping willow trees, boasting a boating lake, putting green, picnic areas and many marked cycle and footpaths. You might even catch a concert on Sundays throughout summer. HUNTINGDON In historic Huntingdon, the birthplace of Oliver Cromwell, don’t miss The Cromwell Museum to learn about his life and legacy, or take a walk in the 170 beautiful acres of Hinchingbrooke Country Park. Along the river from Huntingdon, you will find the impressive 18th-century Houghton Mill where you can have a go at making your own flour, and a visit to the twin villages of Hemingford Abbots and Hemingford Grey is a must.

ST IVES Slightly eastwards is the historic market town of St Ives, steeped in history and the southern gateway to the Ouse Washes Landscape. St Ives has enjoyed river traffic since the Bronze Age and remains a major inland waterway. Pay a visit to The Old Riverport and Norris Museum and you will gain an insight into some of the town’s past, including the fascinating Fen Skating history. ELY Ely is the perfect place to learn about the important heritage of the area by visiting one of the fantastic museums including Ely Museum, Oliver Cromwell’s House and just outside of the city, the Prickwillow Engine Museum. Stop off at Samovar Tea House for lunch or cake and choose from their huge menu of teas. For something stronger, visit one of Ely’s lively pubs including Liberty Belle or The Prince Albert. With all this talk of water, a visit wouldn’t be complete without exploring the waterways. Boat trips and boat hire are available in Ely, St Ives and Huntingdon. The whole area is also rich with distinctive customs, traditions, folklore and arts and a huge programme of festivals, exhibitions and performances take place throughout the year, including the Isle of Ely Arts Festival and OuseFest. For more ideas for things to do visit the Ouse Washes Landscape Partnership’s What’s On Calendar and Interactive Map (www.ousewashes.org. uk/whats-on). The Fenland Tourism (www.visitcambridgeshirefens.org) and Visit Cambridge & Beyond www.visitcambridge.org) websites are also great sources of information. eastlife.co.uk | 119

CITY

diversions F E S T I VA L

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OUTDOOR SPECTACLES AND BIG TOP SHOWS

T FLING CABARE

TICKETS FOR THE BIG TOP EVENTS ON SALE NOW Thursday 24TH To Saturday 26TH Box Office 01245 606505

www.chelmsford.gov.uk/CITYdiversions

ESSEX

What’s on in

Essex

THEATRE & SHOWS 1-31 Aug Clacton Summer Variety Show Summer certainly wouldn’t be summer without the Clacton Summer Variety Show, every Wednesday and Thursday throughout August with evening and matinee performances available. The show will be bursting with singing, live music, glamorous dancers in their spectacular costumes, magic, fun and laughter. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 3-7 Aug Play in a Week Join in for a fun week of drama, games and crafts where you will create your very own ‘Play in a Week’. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 3-8 Aug 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 Warbuck. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 5-Aug Dr Longitude’s Marvellous Imaginary Menagerie Roll up, roll up, for the most magnifical, tremendible and fantasticulous experience in town! The caravan of curiosities and misfits has arrived to entertain. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS 01279 431945 6-9 Aug The Wizard of Oz ‘The Wizard of Oz’ tells the story of Dorothy Gale, who is carried away to Munchkinland after a tornado hits her hometown. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 10-12 Aug Room on the Broom Tall Stories’ magical musical stage adaptation of Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler flies into town direct from a smashing WestEnd season! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135

EDITOR’S CHOICE

The Big Outdoor Family Event Fri 28 Aug - Mon 31 Aug at Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker, CM15 0LA fun weekend of activities including fairground rides, paint balling, climbing walls, kids inflatable world, wildlife show and much more. Rope runners (01277 364470) and the Nuclear Bunker (01277 364883) activities must be pre-booked. This is a family event from10am to 6pm each day. Visit for the day for £10 per car or a weekend stay camp for £15, caravan £25 for the weekend. For more details call 07837462751 or email: dean.scarrott@yahoo.co.uk Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker, CM15 0LA

11-Aug Circuloso Ridiculoso Big Balloon Spectacular Starring Danny, internationally-acclaimed, award-winning entertainer and master balloonsmith. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 14-Aug Joe Pasquale This time he’s leaner, meaner, he’s a vacuum cleaner! Last year Joe and his twin brother Raynard opened a chip shop with the Dalai Lama in Skegness, called Batter Me, I’m Yours! But due to an accident with a pickled egg the Lama pulled out and opened a rival chip shop called the Dalai’s Deep Sea Sausage, which resulted in a surf and turf war, it was savaloys at 40 paces…. If you want to know more come and see this show, it’ll blow your mind, well at least your chips! West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44

15-Aug Joe Pasquale Direct from his performance on Dancing On Ice, Joe is back, where you can watch him pirouette through puns, leap through laughs, slide into songs, then gasp at his amazing double gusset, see his skates, and other favourite fish…Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 18-Aug Funny Business ‘Funny Business’ is Jimmy’s brand new stand up show. Come for the witty and incisive musings on the human condition. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 18-22 Aug Avenue Q Following five years in the West End and sell-out runs worldwide (packed with mischief, bad behaviour and political incorrectness) this hugely entertaining show is hitting the road on a brand new tour! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 19-22 Aug As If By Magic Southend’s own Magic Club is back with a week of incredible magic, illusion and comedy for the whole family. Expect entertainment all the way with unbelievable sleight of hand, unfathomable mind reading and magic suitable for all ages. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 21-22 Aug Coppelia The ballet combines the romance between Swanilda and Franz and Swanilda’s jealousy of the doll Coppelia. Enjoy the story of the eccentric doll maker Dr Coppelius whose greatest desire is to bring his favourite doll Coppelia to life. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 21 Aug - 12 Sept Roll Over Beethoven Johnny Hamlet, a young national serviceman, comes home for his father’s funeral to find, that his mother Gertie has been carrying on with Uncle Claud. Subsequently, his father’s ghost appears, trying to persuade him that he’s been murdered by the pair and that Johnny should settle the score. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333

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INGATESTONE HALL Hall Lane, Ingatestone, Essex CM4 9NR

What Will You Discover? Romans, Victorians, potters, industrial pioneers, soldiers, birds and bees what will you discover ? Free parking and admission for all the family ! 22 August ‘So You Dig Time Team ?’ archaeological activities for all the family www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums for opening times and summer activities at Chelmsford Museum and Sandford Mill

Phone 01245 605700

(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 - 5p.m.) (until the end of September)

Adults - £6 * Pensioners - £5 Children (over 5) - £2.50 Guided tours available for groups at other times by prior appointment.

SPECIAL EVENTS IN AUGUST 8th /9th GUILD OF CRAFTSMEN ART EXHIBITION Normal hours & admission prices 16th GARDEN OPEN in aid of RED CROSS Noon – 5 p.m. Admission (Garden only) - £4

For more information, see our website:

www.ingatestonehall.com

Tel. 01277 353010

Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk

SUMMER

HOLIDAY FUN

ART & SCIENCE ADVENTURES

OPEN DAILY FOR SUMMER HOLIDAYS 23 JULY - 31 AUGUST • Have fun at Prof. Nitrate's Madlab! • Hands on Science Experiments • Blast off at the Test Range • Creative workshops

29-30-31 AUGUST BIG BANG WEEKEND VE 10% BOOK ONLINE AND SA BEAULIEU DRIVE, WALTHAM ABBEY, ESSEX, EN9 1JY Tel: 01992 707370

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ESSEX MUSIC 8-Aug The Rolling Clones It’s your chance to ride the still mighty wave of global appetite for every mouth-watering morsel of a back catalogue of musical masterpieces destined to make all wannabes really, really wannabe. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 9-Aug The Bootleg Sixties Pop music’s greatest decade is brought back to life with the classic fashion, newsreel and iconic video footage of the period not to mention the music. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 12-Aug The Chicago Blues Brothers With an elaborate stage production including a 7-piece live band, the show features hits not only from Jake & Elwood but also classics from James Brown, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Otis Reading and many more! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-onSea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 15-Aug The Only Way is Elvis The UK’s top Elvis tribute artist as voted number one on ITV’s best Elvis and the only Elvis tribute to perform at Wembley stadium. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 16-Aug Lee Mead – Some Enchanted Evening In Lee Mead’s brand-new show for 2015, he will take you on a journey back in time to when the fabulous MGM films and musical theatre shows of the 1940s and 1950s thrilled audiences around the world. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 16-Aug That’ll Be The Day 30th Anniversary 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! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 17-Aug Buddy Holly and the Cricketers This breathtaking show has rock ’n’ rolled audiences across the globe from Cardiff to California, Barking to Bangkok and Swindon to Sweden and is guaranteed to have everyone singing along to the music and dancing in the aisles. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 22-Aug Waterloo – The Best of ABBA Tribute Show The Abba sound is replicated with an incredible attention to detail by a

full live cast and band with stunning costumes and breathtaking choreography. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 23-Aug The Glenn Miller Orchestra In a show the whole family can enjoy, you will experience the excitement of the sound of this incredible orchestra and marvel at the pure energy of the Jiving Lindy Hoppers. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 26-30 Aug Puttin’ On The Ritz The most famous songs of the Golden Age of Hollywood are recreated live on stage with award-winning singers, and featuring dancers from BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, who will wow the audience with their glamorous costumes and ballroom skills. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 28-Aug The Old Soul Roadshow The Old Soul Roadshow brings you a fantastic mix of Funk, Soul, Boogie, Disco and Motown. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 29-Aug Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise Now in its 5th year on the road, this incredibly talented cast brings you the show that never happened in the golden era of rock and roll, but delivered with all the flair of a 21st century live concert. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE 01255 43 33 44 30-Aug Best of British Best of British is full of musical hits from pop to rock to rhythm and blues. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1 Jul - 26 Sept Seven Brides Seven Brides takes you on a journey through bridal fashion and experiences from 1916 to present day. The dresses and accessories of seven women are on display, highlighting the changing styles of wedding wear through to the 21th century. Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6. 01702 434449 8-9 Aug Guild of Essex Craftsmen Flagship Craft Fair Members of the Guild will have works and crafts on display. Ingatestone Hall, Hall Lane, Ingatestone, CM4 9NR. 01245 467581 11-29 Aug Summer Exhibition The Summer Exhibition will feature sculpture and ceramics by new and regular gallery artists, with work suitable for external installation

exhibited outside. Sculpt Gallery, Braxted Park Road, Tiptree, CO5 0QB. 07980 768616 SPECIAL EVENTS 3-7 Aug Ugly Bug Safari at Audley End Grab a magnifying glass and join the big hunt for some mini beasts. Discover the secret life of creepy friends and create your own to take home. Audley End House and Gardens, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JF. 0870 3331181 7-Aug Vintage Car Rally Around 40 vintage Singer vehicles will be on display. Owners will be happy to show you round their vehicles and tell you about the history of these amazing cars. Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Chelmsford, CM3 8ET . 0845 265 8071 7-Aug Tudors Live at Cressing Temple Barns Enjoy the sounds, tastes and daily routines of everyday Tudor life. Visit the kitchen and enjoy some Tudor tastes, in the Court Hall, join in real Tudor cases! Cressing Temple Barns, Witham Road, Cressing, CM77 8PD. 01245 467581 27-28 Aug Clacton Airshow Clacton’s award-winning seafronts and west greensward are transformed over the two days into a fun filled events site and viewing area. Impressive aerobatic displays take to the skies whilst a whole host of exhibition, trade stands, food court and on-site entertainment are available at ground level. Town Centre, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1 18-19 Aug Medieval Mayhem Enjoy exploring the sights, sounds and tastes of Medieval Cressing. Learn about the Templar Knights who built the magnificent wooden barns and stone lined well. Learn what it took to be a Knight. Cressing Temple Barns, Witham Road, Cressing, CM77 8PD 01245 467581 29-30 Aug Clacton Food and Drink Festival The festival is set on the beautiful West Greensward and offers lots of stalls selling scrumptious food and free celebrity chefs kitchen demonstrations. Town Centre, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1 AUCTION & ANTIQUES 8-9 Aug Chelmsford City Racecourse Indoor/outdoor Antiques A new fair. Braintree Road, Great Leighs, CM3 1QP. 01702 410171 30-31 Aug The Brentwood Centre Antiques & Collectors Fair The fair features indoor and outdoor stalls with dealers from all over the UK selling a huge variety of affordable items. Doddinghurst Road, CM15 9NN

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IDEAL GIFTS FOR ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY Come and browse our wide choice of: • • • • •

Gifts Home and garden accessories Toys Paintings and prints Jewellery

Free gift wrapping on all purchases in store Open daily Mon – Sat 9.30am – 5.30pm www.headstreetgallery.co.uk www.facebook.com/headstreetgallery 1 Head Street, Halstead, Essex CO9 2AT | 01787 472705

Hardys FORMAL SUIT HIRE For Men & Boys

QUALITY AND SERVICE FOR THAT SPECIAL OCCASION. A comprehensive collection of mens and boys hire wear available.

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THE BIG OUTDOOR F A M I LY E V E N T This is a 4 day event to be held near Brentwood Essex at Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker CM15 0LA

FREE ENTRY

Bank holiday weekend event Friday 28th August FREE till Monday 31st August ENTRY

• Fairground • Paintballing • Climbing Walls • Catering • Bar • Entertainment • Kids Inflatable World • Wildlife Show and much much more Activities that need to be pre-booked Rope Runners 01277 364470 Nuclear Bunker 01277 364883 This is a family event 10am till 6pm each day come for the day £10 per day per car or a weekend stay camp or caravan for the weekend £15 to camp or £25 for caravan for any info on this event

CALL 07837462751

Or email dean.scarrott@yahoo.co.uk Any application wishing to book stall, stands charity or any other entertainment for this event Contact Dean on details above.

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AREA FOCUS

DISCOVER

THE COLNE VALLEY QUAINT VILLAGES WITH COLOURFUL PASTEL COTTAGES, timbered tearooms and an award-winning period country railway, the Colne Valley is like stepping into a time gone by. Often compared to Constable Country, the Colne Valley is a stunning region tucked away in the glorious countryside of North Essex. Named after the River Colne which flows through the valley, the area is home to a number of historic houses built in the 17th and 18th century. The valley sits on the border of Essex and Suffolk and provides a scenic route through stunning countryside that runs from Colchester to Great Yeldham, making this quite possibly the most beautiful part of Essex. The area is rich in history and attractive villages; Earls Colne, Chappel, Great Yeldham, Castle Hedingham, Great Tey, Coggeshall, Colne Engaine, and others - with plenty of interesting shops and restaurants. The magnificent viaduct at Chappel is 1066ft long, has 32 arches of 30ft span and its maximum height is 75ft. Incredibly, it is still in use with trains running from Marks Tey via Wakes Colne and Bures to Sudbury. It truly is a train journey to savour and one that needs protecting. The beautiful village of Castle Hedingham is almost like a model village complete with its own castle. Dominated by the magnificent Norman keep of Hedingham Castle, it is the finest and best preserved in England. While children love the medieval re-enactments, grown-ups may prefer to visit the West Street Vineyard in nearby Coggleshall. Halstead is an attractive, traditional market town with a wealth of shops, restaurants and interesting walks. Its mill is a picturesque reminder of the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s industrial past and now holds one of the largest Antique Centres in the Essex/Suffolk area. Halstead has a wide variety of independent shops, and a small market, held on Fridays and Saturdays all set on a steep High Street. Chappel and Wakes Colne station is one of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top attractions. The East Anglian Railway Museum has a comprehensive collection of period railway architecture, engineering and memorabilia in beautifully restored station buildings. There is also a delightful miniature railway, special steam days and other events. On 2 August, 10.30am to 4.30pm, the railway will be hosting Fighting Forties, a day dedicated to life during wartime Britain. See an RAF sector control room in action, explore period vehicles, hear real-life tales and learn to jive!

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BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS

What’s on in

Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE & SHOWS 6-8 Aug Loserville It’s 1971 and Michael Dork and his computer-geek friends are attempting to send the first ever email. With Sci-fi plot lines, 70s styling and high energy music written by James Bourne, from ‘McBusted’. ‘Loserville’ will be great fun for all involved. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring , HP23 5QY 8-Aug Living the Dream Students aged 5 – 18 from the Living the Dream School of Performing Arts perform in their annual summer showcase with street dance, contemporary dance, acting, musical theatre and singing. Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 9-Aug FILM: Everyman Everyman is successful, popular and riding high when Death comes calling. He is forced to abandon the life he has built and embark on a last, frantic search to recruit a friend, anyone, to speak in his defence. But Death is close behind, and time is running out. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 9-Aug Britten’s The Rape of Lucretia Live from Glyndebourne’s 2015 Festival Lucretia is a model of fidelity among Roman wives until the Etruscan prince Tarquinius, provoked by his Roman army comrades, gallops back to Rome to ruin her virtue. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117 11-Aug Jimmy Carr: Funny Business Jimmy’s been described as ‘the hardest working man in comedy’, which, let’s face facts, is not that impressive. ‘Funny Business’ is Jimmy’s brand-new stand-up show. Come for the witty and incisive musings on the human condition and stay for the dirty jokes Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 14-16 Aug A Royal Night Out On V.E. Day in 1945, as peace extends across Europe, Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret are allowed out to join

EDITOR’S CHOICE

9-16 August Bedford Beach Week Harpur Square, Bedford town centre eek long entertainment, W with a giant sand pit, deck chairs, Punch & Judy, belly dancing, cheerleading, live music, children’s fun fair, fish & chips, line dancing, zumba & zumbini, plus special events through the week! Events take place in Bedford Town Centre.

For the full programme of events, dates and times visit www.lovebedford.co.uk/events For more on Bedford turn to page 133! the celebrations. It is a night full of excitement, danger and the first flutters of romance. Sarah Gadon, Emily Watson, Bel Powley. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 14-15 Aug FILM: Amy A touching documentary on the late singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse, who died of alcohol poisoning in 2011. Featuring previously unseen footage and celebrating her unique talent, this tells her tragic story in her own words. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 14-15 Aug Room on the Broom Tall Stories’ magical musical stage adaptation of Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler

flies into Watford Colosseum, with a cosy new seating format especially for smaller people. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road , Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 15-16 Aug Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom Holly is a young Fairy Princess, who is still learning how to fly and her magic doesn’t always go quite according to plan. Her best friend, Ben the Elf, doesn’t have wings and he doesn’t do magic, but he runs very fast and flies on the back of Gaston the Ladybird. They live in the Little Kingdom, a tiny land where flowers and grass rise high above them and every day is an adventure. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 18 Aug - 6 Sept Shrek the Musical Join the unlikely hero and his loyal steed Donkey as they embark on a quest to rescue the beautiful (if slightly temperamental) Princess Fiona from a fire breathing, love-sick dragon. Add the diminutive Lord Farquaad, a gang of fairytale misfits, and a biscuit with attitude, and you’ve got the biggest, brightest musical comedy around! Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 24-28 Aug Boom! Summer Theatre School for Primary Aged Children Boom! is a great opportunity for kids to finish their summer holidays with five days of creativity and fun, building up to a chance to wow their parents and friends in a performance on the last day. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 26-Aug Othello - Live Screening Othello is the greatest general of his age. A fearsome warrior, loving husband and revered defender of Venice against its enemies. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 26-Aug Othello Othello is the greatest general of his age. A fearsome warrior, loving hus-

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BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS band and revered defender of Venice against its enemies. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable LU5 4GP. 01582 290333

With their authentic instruments and sets crafted through years of experience, The Strange Doors invite audiences to immerse themselves in the vibe, to move to the hypnotic beat MUSIC and to allow the sound to help them break on through to the other side. 6-8 Aug The Wizard of Oz Featuring all the unforgettable songs The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavenfrom the hit MGM motion picture don, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 soundtrack including We’re Off To See The Wizard, If I Only Had A Brain, 28-Aug Colvex Merry Old Land of Oz, Ding Dong The Colvex are a Watford based band Witch Is Dead and of course, Over The that play a thrilling mix of eclectic, Rainbow. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, original material ranging from alterCourt Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. native and heavy rock through to 01582 290333 jazz and swing! Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, 12-Aug Live Midweek Music – Chris WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 Lord & her Blues Express A powerful and raunchy Rhythm & 28-Aug The Chicago Blues Brothers Blues 6 piece, Chris Lord & her Blues ExWith an elaborate new stage producpress produce classic Rhythm & Blues, tion including a full live band, the with the kind of exuberance and joy show features hits not only from Jake which belies their collective years of & Elwood but also classics from James musical experience. Rhodes Theatre, Brown, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, Otis Reading and many more! Watford CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 13-Aug The Proclaimers Strikingly individual, twin brothers Craig 29-Aug The Spooky Men’s Chorale and Charlie Reid have over the years ‘The Spooky Men’s Chorale’ from the enjoyed huge successes across the Blue Mountains in Australia employ a devastating combination of musical globe and in April this year release sensibilities, cavernous vocal chords their 10th album on the Cooking Vinyl and extreme silliness to explore the label. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborparadoxes of latter day masculinity. ough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 18-29 Aug Sister Act ‘Sister Act’ tells the hilarious story of 31 Aug - 1 Sept King Crimson Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva Robert Fripp has formed a sensational new band including Tony Levin on whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime and the cops bass, Mel Collins on sax and Jakko hide her in the last place anyone Jakszyk on vocals/guitar together with would think to look - a convent! three drummers Pat Mastellotto, Gavin The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Harrison and Bill Reiflin. Aylesbury WaStevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 terside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 20-Aug The Jonnhy Cash Roadshow The UK’s No1 celebration of Johnny ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Cash, fronted by award-winning sing21 Jul - 15 Aug Summer Exhibition A mixed exhibition by selected memer/songwriter Clive John, re-creates bers and supporters of Courtyard Arts. with astounding accuracy and truly This show celebrates the summertime captures the essence of what it was in a variety of guises. Hertford Theatre like to be at a real Cash show! Watford Gallery, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 01992 531500 21-Aug Ten Strings And A Goatskin Integrating modern and world rhythms with traditional and original tunes, they create a fiery, contagious and unique sound that has caught the attention of audiences in the US and Europe. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 22-Aug Hats Off to Led Zeppelin The official UK No.1 tribute to the gods of Rock and Roll! The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU 01908 280800 28-Aug The Strange Doors

27 Jul - 22 Aug Members’ Exhibition More affordable art by local artists goes on display as members submit work for this new exhibition. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 1 Aug - 1 Jan Bawden’s Book Illustration The exhibition features early illustrations, unused designs, original artwork and books written and illustrated by Bawden himself Quirky and humorous work bursting with original ideas Bawden’s Book Illustration is drawn from the vast collection of 3,000 works

at The Higgins Bedford. Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD 01234 718618 SPECIAL EVENTS 1-Aug Lookout Festival: Arnold’s Big Adventure The Old Town Hall’s festival for families in Gadebridge Park Tessa Bide presents Arnold’s Big Adventure Gather under the branches for the biggest day in the woodland calendar. The Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3AE . 01442 228091 2-Aug Rock at the Castle Come along and listen to live bands, musicians and acoustic acts performing in the Castle grounds. Hertford Castle Grounds, Hertford, SG14 1HR. 01992 552885 8-Aug Classic Vehicle Day The event incorporates live music from a local band alongside 90+ vehicles being displayed ranging from 1950s to up to date classics. The event is free to visitors. High Street, Waltham Cross, EN8 7AN 15-16 Aug Knebworth Country Fair All day entertainment including The Sheep Show, ferret racing, birds of prey, working dogs, children’s entertainment with Devilstick Peat plus Circus Skills Workshop, Knights of Honour medieval village & as well as arts, crafts, gifts and food marquees. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX. 01206 263088 30-31 Aug A Vintage Affair This long running classic car show is set in the beautiful grounds of Knebworth House. There will be a vintage fair alongside this event over the 2 days, with traders selling vintage clothing, jewellery, homeware and accessories. A fun day out for all the family! Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX. 079806 19414 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 1-31 Aug The Exchange At Hemel The Exchange at Hemel is Hertfordshire’s quirkiest market for antiques, collectibles and bric a brac. Every Wednesday. Market Access Road, Off Waterhouse Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1ET. 01483 277640 2-Aug Barkway Antiques & Vintage Fair Featuring a range of fabulous stalls with a wide variety of stock from jewellery to ceramics and curios to clothing. Barkway Village Hall, Cambridge Road Barkway, SG8 8BS. 077206 47696 30-Aug Berkhamsted Antique And Collectors Fair Over 110 stands. Berkhamsted Sports Centre, Lagley Meadow, HP4 3QQ 078876 48255

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Bird of Prey & Activity Centre Wilstead MK45 3DT

Bishop’s Stortford Tourist Information Centre

www.birdsofpreycentre.co.uk 01234 742362/01234 742766

Open 7 Days a week 10am-5pm

Su m m e r Extravaganza

2 Market Square, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3UU email: tic@bishopsstortford.org

NEW 2015

● ●

Information for both visitors and the local community. The friendly and knowledgeable staff can provide local, regional and national information and a comprehensive community information service.

● ● ● ● ● ●

No Need to Book

●

We have gifts and souvenirs for sale, and ideas to get you out and about in the beautiful Herts & Essex countryside

Adults £10.00 Seniors £9.00 Children (3-16 yrs) - £5.00 Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) - £25.00 May include additional charges for activities

Join us for a full week of fun filled family activities August 24 - 31 th

Monday 24th - Inflatable fun: Nerf Zone, Pillow Bash & Gladiator Duel Tuesday 25th - Safari Stu - Come face to face with all kinds of critters. Wednesday 26th - Ulti8 Warrior - Compete against the clock on the ulti8 of all challenges. Thursday 27th - Teddy Bears Picnic - Build a bear, outside games, bouncy castles and more. Friday 28th - Teddy Bears Picnic - Build a bear, outside games, bouncy castles and more. Saturday 29th -Ulti8 Warrior - Compete against the clock on the ulti8 of all challenges. Sunday 30th - Circus Skills, join in on our circus workshops and pony rides. Monday 31st - Inflatable fun: Nerf Zone, Pillow Bash & Gladiator Duel

Opening Hours Monday - Friday: 10am - 4pm Saturday: 9am - 3pm 01279 715001 www.bishopsstortford.org

All regular flying displays and children's activities will be taking place as well as the special events. Please note there may be some additional charges.

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be bold with a simple statement. Clean, unassuming, these quiet tones balance beautifully with any design to complement and complete it. Above (from top to bottom): Chateau Oak, Herringbone laying pattern. lime Washed Wood, basket Weave laying pattern. To view all Neutral woods see page 85.

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moordeB kaO citsuR We are a Specialist Platinum Dealer for Quick Step Laminates and also supply and stock Amtico Vinyl flooring, along with other popular engineered and solid wood brands. We are an independent family owned business that has been trading for over three decades. All of our staff are friendly, experienced and have a complete knowledge and understanding of our products and services.

Fine AgED TIMBER graciously aged barn wood finish, with a defined and tactile grain. Beautifully natural wood tones bring a warm style to any room, complementing organic surfaces or contrasting with modern finishes.

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AREA FOCUS

BUSTLING

BISHOP’S STORTFORD BISHOP’S STORTFORD HAS A REAL HEART. A short stroll through its historic streets quickly reveals some wonderful buildings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. An imposing Corn Exchange dominates the Market Square and there are numerous buildings of note. Its fantastic rail and road links to London and Cambridge and close proximity to Stansted Airport have made it a popular place of residence for commuters and as a result the town centre is a bustling mix of retailers, restaurants and bars. The town offers a wide range of shops from long-established independent stores such as Coopers to high street names. North Street hosts specialist shops while in Jackson Square and South Street you will find the popular high street stores. There is a thriving Saturday general market and Farmers’ Market every Thursday. There is every opportunity to shop until you drop, but there is also a choice of traditional cafes and restaurants to take time out from shopping and just watch the world go by. Come evening you can dance the night away at one of the many pubs and bars. The town’s biggest attraction is the Rhodes Arts Complex, which includes a 300-seat theatre, studio and the town museum. Rhodes has a full programme of theatre, film and arts throughout the year. Call in at the Tourist Information Centre in the town centre to find out about local events, attractions and places to stay.

Alastair Wallace / Shutterstock.com

There are plenty of opportunities to take a boat trip on the River Stort and Lee system, either on an organised trip or by hiring a boat yourself. Lee Valley Boat Centre can offer canal boats through to rowing boats to help you cool off around the river. SAWBRIDGEWORTH Travel 10 minutes outside of Bishop’s Stortford and you’ll discover the quieter town of Sawbridgeworth. It’s home to an old-world high street with a number of pubs and fine dining restaurant the Goose Fat and Garlic, which is certainly worth a visit. During the summer months head to Pishiobury Park, which features ancient parkland. As many as nineteen species of butterflies have been recorded at the park and you may even catch a glimpse of a water vole. Look out for Meadow Browns, Red Admirals, Speckled Woods and the Essex Skipper! eastlife.co.uk | 131

AREA FOCUS

BEDFORD WHETHER YOU LIVE IN THE AREA OR ARE PLANNING TO VISIT, Bedford is a great place for making the most of the glorious summer weather. With its vibrant town centre, cultural calendar of events and large outdoor green spaces, there’s plenty to see and do. Make your first stop The Embankment. Regularly referred to as the Jewel in Bedford's Crown, the riverside promenade running through the town centre is made up of the Embankment Gardens, Russell Park and Mill Meadows. Take a stroll along the water’s edge and you’ll encounter the town’s Victorian heritage at the ornate Victorian Suspension Bridge, which was built in 1888. The promenade is great for taking in the riverside views and the dazzling bedding displays of the Embankment Gardens. Bedford Park is another Victorian stamp on the town. The urban park contains traditional English features such as a cricket pavilion and bandstand. It is large in size and contains many wild trees and other plants as well as tennis and basketball courts and a football field. Set in a 600-acre country park, just minutes from Bedford The Forest Centre is a great place for a

family day out. With parking and free entrance you can walk or cycle on 8km of safe paths or relax in the Lakeside Café and enjoy the view. If you’re looking to cool down or keep the kids entertained through the summer holidays, Bedford is certainly not short of a swimming pool. In the grounds of Bedford Park you’ll find Robinson Pool, while the Oasis Swimming Pool on the outskirts of the town features a wave machine, water cannon, bubbles, flume and outdoor rapid! WHAT’S ON There’s no better way to enjoy summer evenings than by watching a film under the stars. Pop-up cinemas are huge this year and will be coming to Bedford. Taking place at Archaeological Park, Castle Quay, Bedford, the Love Bedford Free Outdoor Cinema will begin in August. Pack a picnic and enjoy! 6 Aug – Mamma Mia 13 Aug – To Kill a Mockingbird 20 Aug – Like Stars on Earth 27 Aug – Time Bandits

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You’ ll find u’s #atthepark OPEN EVERY DAY! Ping-Pong Tennis Putting Playpark storytime

AMICI BEDFORD

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Amici is a small traditional restaurant in the heart of Bedford’s historical town centre. With its relaxed and intimate atmosphere, it is the ideal setting for any occasion, whether it is a romantic meal for two, a dinner with friends or a lively celebration you have in mind. OPENING HOURS Tuesday - Sunday 12:00 - 14:30 / 18:00 - 23:00 27 St. Peters Street MK402PN Bedfordshire www.amici-restaurant.co.uk

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Beccles Sewing & Handicrafts

Summer Fun

Family Drop-in Activity Days 2015

DRESSMAKING & CRAFT FABRICS HABERDASERY & CRAFT REQUIREMENTS SEWING MACHINES REPAIRS & SALES Authorised dealer for: JUKI, JANOME, BROTHER, BABYLOCK, PFAFF, BRITANNIA, SINGER & JAGUAR

Now in store the New Brother Innov-IS XV machine The most advanced embroidery machine – Ever!

Fun and discovery for everyone among Garretts of Leiston’s Victorian factory buildings and marvellous machines. Time Traveller Days! 10.30am - 1pm Wednesdays: 29th July & 12th August Make it Work Days! 1pm - 3.30pm Wednesdays: 5th & 19th August Admission £6 adults (£5 with accompanying child), £5 concessions, £3 children

All ticket holders are entitled to an Annual Pass for 12 months free entry. For further details of these and other museum events go to Telephone 01502 714234 www.longshopmuseum.co.uk or phone 01728 832189 15830_THGC_Eastlife_Summer_Ad_Layout 1 10/07/2015 14:38 Page 1 15A Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB

MY THORPENESS

SUMMER Join us at Thorpeness for a range of great summer activities for all ages

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SUFFOLK

What’s on in

Suffolk?

THEATRE & SHOWS 2-Aug Magic of the Movies Cinderella, Anastasia The Lion King, Shrek, Tangled and Frozen; children and adults alike can enjoy songs from their favourite animated films performed live on stage by a professional cast. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 3-8 Aug And Then There Were None A group of 10 strangers are lured to a remote island off the coast of Devon. Stranded on the island by a torrential storm and haunted by an ancient nursery rhyme, one by one the guests begin to die… Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505 5-Aug Globe On Screen – 2015: (ENCORE) Antony & Cleopatra Cleopatra, the alluring and fascinatingly ambiguous Queen of Egypt, has bewitched the great Mark Antony, soldier, campaigner and now one of the three rulers of the Roman Empire. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 6-8 Aug Blitzed ‘Blitzed’ follows the lives of three female friends beginning in 1967. The twists and turns of the years that follow only serve to prove that the ‘free loving’ on offer in the 60s may prove not to have been all it seemed. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726 7-8 Aug Hairspray - Summer Theatre School Project MBK in association with the Marina Theatre are delighted to announce the presentation of a Youth Summer School Production of the smash hit musical Hairspray! Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 8-Aug O’Shea & O’Gaukroger present: We’re Dead Serious There’s the Bearded Ladies with a penchant for jokes, an over zealous pair of recruiters, and a man who fails to understand the necessity of trousers in public places. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 9-Aug Globe on Screen: Titus

EDITOR’S CHOICE

enough to fight it or will he run away? The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 12-Aug A Most Violent Year Set in New York’s underworld, businessman Abel Morales believes that true success is not achieved by violence. His wife, on the other hand, is the daughter of a mobster and has very different ideas. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123

The Upstairs Gallery in Beccles has been named as one of the best small arts galleries in the country igh50 has named its pick of the best small art galleries and exhibitions in the UK (see Tracey Emin, Picasso, Monet and more). Whether you like modern art, photography or something more traditional, the UK’s smaller galleries have it all. Lucy Handley (editor high50) picked the best in Manchester, Birmingham, Southport, London and more. The Upstairs Gallery has been named as one of the top 10 of those inspirational galleries to visit today, and the only independent arts gallery (not funded or backed). TEL: 01502 717191 www.theupstairsgallery.co.uk

Andronicus Returning to Rome from a war against the Goths, the general Titus Andronicus brings with him the queen Tamora and her three sons as prisoners of war. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 9-Aug Pride and Prejudice It is a truth universally acknowledged that Jane Austen’s witty and romantic masterpiece is one of the bestloved stories of all time, dealing with the most important questions in life. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 11-Aug George and the Dragon Beware in a cave under the hill lurks a fiery dragon. Will George be bold

16-Aug Globe on Screen: Julius Caesar When Caesar returns to Rome from the wars a virtual dictator, Brutus and his republican friends resolve that his ambition must be curbed – which in Rome can mean only one thing: the great general must be assassinated. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 18-Aug Old Mother Hubbard and Her Cupboard A dotty old woman takes you on an nursery rhyme journey as clatters about in her kitchen with her dancing dog! The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 21-Aug Three Little pigs A re-imagining of the classic tale. Danny has ordered a Story Telling Kit which has arrived in a crate. The crate contains all the props Danny will need to tell the story of the Three Little Pigs, or does it? Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 26-29 Aug Pendragon Poetry, puppetry, magic and mime are interwoven with a beautiful musical score to create a spectacular theatrical experience of comedy, pathos and power. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 26-Aug Othello A fearsome warrior, loving husband and revered defender of Venice against its enemies. But he is also an outsider whose victories have created enemies of his own, men driven by jealousy to destroy him. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123

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SUFFOLK 30-Aug Globe on Screen: The Comedy of Errors Take one pair of estranged twin brothers, keep them in ignorance of each other and throw them into a city with a reputation for sorcery, and you have all the ingredients for theatrical chaos. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 MUSIC 7-Aug Crocodile Mock – Elton John Tribute Show ‘Crocodile Mock’ is an amazing eightpiece band creating the authentic sound of Sir Elton John. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 8-Aug Mad4Brit 1983 saw a new band called The Stone Roses form in Manchester. They were one of the pioneering groups of the MADCHESTER movement that was active during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 9-Aug Brass on the Grass ‘The Brass on the Grass’ concerts return to the arboretum in Christchurch Park this summer. Hosted by Friends of Christchurch Park, the traditional brass and wind band concert is free to attend. Christchurch Park, Mansion Lawn, Ipswich, IP4 2BX. 01473 252435 11-Aug The Spooky Men’s Chorale Ennobled by improbable facial hair and dignified with cavernous vocal chords, The Spooky Men’s Chorale have been gleefully smashing up and reassembling the world of men’s singing since 2001, and have sold out The Apex twice! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 14-Aug The Secret Show An unmissable evening of live music, energetic performance and laughter! The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 16-Aug The Songs of Sinatra Come along and help celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Ol’ Blue Eyes. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 21-22 Aug Rod Clark Rod Clark, Roller Coaster and the Rockettes are back with another fantastic two nights of Rock ‘n’ Roll and Country from the 50s and early 60s. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 23-Aug Songbook Sundays Relax in the Apex Lounge with the Chris Ingham Trio and special guest singers from the world of jazz. Food & drink will be available to purchase. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St

Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 29-30 Aug Elvis – The ’68 Comeback Special This performance will be a live recreation of The Comeback concert, featuring live musicians on stage and contributing to the commentary. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 30-Aug LazFest An all-dayer of blues, rock & heavy metal in aid of Cancer Research UK. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 31 Jul - 6 Aug A photographic exhibition by members of The Suffolk Monochrome Group The Suffolk Monochrome Group are a small select group of twelve dedicated and highly experienced photographers whose aim is to enjoy and promote the art of monochrome photography in all its various forms. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR 01728 688 303

28-Aug The Air War Over Lowestoft 1939 – 1945 Using a mixture of wartime photographs and extraordinary CGI pictures created by Norfolk researcher Kim Collinson, Lowestoft historians Bob Collis and Simon Baker take their audience on a journey through Lowestoft’s war, with images illustrating how many well-known buildings disappeared under the aerial onslaught from Hitler’s Luftwaffe. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 SPECIAL EVENTS 1-2 Aug 1915: The House at War Experience domestic country house life as it was in 1915. With around thirty costumed re-enactors taking part, ‘1915: The House at War’ is a fascinating exploration of the impact of WWI on the country estate. Kentwell Hall, Long Melford, Sudbury, CO10 9BA. 01787 310207

1 Aug - 3 Sep Rachel Ashton Exhibition Rachel brings her wonderfully ethereal papercuts to The Gallery in an exhibition entitled Acts of Union. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR. 01728 688 303

8-Aug Harvest Moon Free Music Festival Free event for music lovers, families and friends. New and established artists play for your enjoyment in the lovely surroundings of Beccles Quay. Food and drink will be available, along with stalls and activities. Beccles Quay, Beccles, NR34 9BH. 01502 717098

1 Aug - 9 Sept Equestrian Art Exhibition Discover equestrian photographer Nigel Baker and his amazing prints of these wonderful animals. The Suffolk Punch Trust, Woodbridge Walk, Hollesley, IP12 3JR. 01394 411327

8-Aug Long Melford Book Fair Around 20 exhibitors offering a wide range of secondhand, out of print and collectable books for sale. Memorial Hall, Long Melford, CO10 9LQ. 01245 361609

4-8 Aug Annual Summer Exhibition and Sale Norfolk and Suffolk Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers annual sale, exhibition of work and practical demonstrations. United Reformed Church Hall, High Street, Southwold, IP18 6DS

9-Aug Toy and Model Day Exciting displays and demonstrations from other local modelling clubs and associations, both indoors and outdoors. Felixstowe Museum, Landguard Peninsula, Felixstowe, IP11 3TW. 01394 675283

20 Aug - 2 Sep Chris Soule, Potter and an Invited East Anglia Artist Chris exhibits with an invited artist from a group including fine artists and a master printer, also living and working in East Anglia and inspired by this special landscape. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR. 01728 688 303

AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 2-Aug Southwold Antique & Collectors Fair The antiques and collectors fair is held every year on the first Sunday in August on the greens. It is free entry and there will be in excess of 100 stalls selling everything from collectables to genuine antiques. South Green, Gun Hill, Southwold, IP18 6AB. 07947 569526

21-24 Aug It’s Only Natural An exhibition of textile art, ceramics and botanical drawing by STRANDS, a group of local artists. Free admission Holy Trinity Church, The Green, Long Melford, CO10 9DT 26-Aug Great Cities of Art: Vienna John Sheeran’s 2015 programme of talks is Great Cities of Art. Each talk covers a major city in Western Europe. Ipswich Film Theatre, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1HD. 07884 076950

2-Aug Suffolk The Famous Copdock Antiques & Collectors Fair Dealers from Suffolk, Essex and beyond. The Cameo Hotel, Old Ipswich Road, Copdock. 01702 410171 5-Aug Suffolk’s Graham Turner Antiques Fairs The longest running mid-week Antiques Fair in the UK. Long Melford Village Memorial Hall . 01379 897266.

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W&M SMITH

RUSTIC AND VINTAGE IS STILL THE TREND in Wedding designs and a wide choice of ribbons and fabrics to link in with this look can be found at The Pightle Barn. Also fabric bunting in plain ivory, cream or hessian, or of a floral pattern is now on the shelves too. Glass Jars to hang from the tree branches or just to sit on tables outside are now coming in many different shapes and sizes either plain, ridged or coloured. These are specifically for candles to add that romantic touch to the evening as the night draws in at the end of a hectic wedding day. Wooden crates are also proving very popular for either being used as a ‘post box’ for cards or filled with flowers and then being used as table centrepieces. As for post boxes we not only have the cardboard ones but also metal ones, in a red or a cream. A wooden one is also being added to the range. Unfortunately we have to realise that Summer is nearing an end and Autumn will soon be here. This only means one thing for W & M Smith. Christmas stock will soon be arriving.

As is usually the case we have pushed out all the stops again and got a new exciting range of goodies coming in. During September the shelves will start to be filled with all the new stock for the festive season. Frozen themed decorations will feature, and if the craze was anything to go by with the first film, we are not expecting the stock to be here long. When it has gone it has gone so do not be disappointed. The range of garlands and wreaths this year is of a very high quality but at reasonable prices. Which is the case for several of the ranges. We have gone to different suppliers this year so hopefully we will have something that bit different from the norm to entice you all into this quiet corner of Middlewood Green. Do not miss out, please come along and we are sure you will be pleasantly surprised and you trip will be worthwhile ………..

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

Candle Lanterns

Floral Decor

Wedding Accessories

Silk Flowers

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

TROWMANS

RANGE COOKERS - STOVES - FIRES TROWMANS

Angel gallery

TROWMANS

FOR ALLRYOUR A N G E HOME C O O K ECOOKING, R S - S T O VHEATING E S - F I R E SAND HOT WATER NEEDS RANGE COOKERS - STOVES - FIRES

MAY OFFER

17 Market Place Lavenham, CO10 9QZ Telephone: 01787 248417 www.angelgallerylavenham.co.uk philipandwendy@angelgallery.co.uk

FOR ALL YOUR HOME COOKING, HEATING AND HOT WATER NEEDS

SPECIAL OFFER UNTIL END AUGUST

TROWMANS

A 15th century wool merchant’s residence housing exhibitions by local and national artists, including collections of the works of Leslie Gibson, Mary Wild and pottery by John Leach.

RANGE COOKERS - STOVES - FIRES

Supply install FOR ALL YOUR HOME COOKING, HEATING AND&HOT WATERAGA NEEDS Little Wenlock MAY OFFER

Classic with stainless steel flue liner,

Free site surveys and quotations

fully installed to Full central heating installations HETAS certification and servicing

£500 off

Supply TOTAL & install AGA Little Wenlock Over 40VAT stoves £1699 on display in PRICE INCLUDING

Fully qualiﬁed HETAS and OFTEC

installation engineers (conditions apply) & install Wood andSupply multi fuel stovesAGA Little Wenlockour showroom AGA Masterchef Freewith site surveys and quotations • Wood and multi-fuel stoves renovations Classic stainless steel ﬂue liner, Fireplace and chimney Oil gas and solidFully fuelqualified range HETAS cookers AGA Masterchef XL and OFTEC installation engineers

Classic with stainless steel flue liner, £500 off fully installed to HETAS certification fully installed to HETAS certification

until June 1st Oil, gas and solid fuel range cookers • Fireplace and chimney restorations Total price Chimneys Full central heating installations and servicing swept £46.50 inc. vat including vat £1685 Over 40 stoves on display in our showroom

Total price including vat £1685 www.trowmans.co.uk (Conditions apply)

(Conditions apply)

Chimneys swept £46.50 inc. vat

Unit2,2,Foundry Foundry House, House, Hall Unit Hall Street, Street,Long LongMelford, Melford,Suffolk Suffolk Tel: 01787313699

Email: info@trowmans.co.uk

until June 1st

(Conditions apply)

www.trowmans.co.uk

Tel: 01787313699 Email: info@trowmans.co.uk

WWW.TROWMANS.CO.UK

Unit 2, Foundry House, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk Tel: 01787313699

Email: info@trowmans.co.uk

eve st clair of Long Melford

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The Old Pharmacy, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk CO10 9JQ Opening hours: Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm 01787 312182 - info@evestclair.com 142 | DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY!

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AREA FOCUS

DISCOVER WEST SUFFOLK’S PRETTIEST VILLAGES

SUFFOLK’S LANDSCAPES ARE BEAUTIFUL at any time of year, but during the summer months they are alive with colour and life. If you’re thinking about making the most of the county’s glorious countryside, towns or villages, read our guide to West Suffolk SUDBURY Sudbury sits close to the River Stour on the Suffolk Essex border. It is a delightful market town surrounded on three sides by its famous water meadows and rolling hills. It is the commercial heart for many nearby villages and is the perfect place to start your journey of this area. Relax and enjoy the ambience of this ancient market town with its impressive Market Hill and busy North Street, which boasts a wealth of pubs, coffee shops, wine bars, restaurants and takeaways. A busy market is held on the Market Hill, twice a week, on Thursdays and Saturdays. On the last Friday of the month there is a Farmers’ Market inside the deconsecrated church of St Peters. For relaxation, visit Gainsborough’s House, with its delightful galleries, garden and teashop. Walk along the River Stour, around the famous Water Meadows, or along the old Railway Walk. In the evening visit the lively Quay Theatre, where there is a regular programme of entertainment touring companies, great plays put on by Sudbury Dramatic Society, live music, films and art exhibitions. Until 24 August, visitors can make the most of the area with ‘Take a Walk Through Time’. Developed in partnership with the Lavenham Tourist Information Centre and the Long Melford Business Association, the walks will start from Tiffin’s Tea Emporium, Drury House, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9JT, where tickets can be purchased on the day. Tickets cost £4 for adults and children under 14 are free.

Photograph by Mark Staples

eastlife.co.uk | 143

AREA FOCUS LONG MELFORD Long Melford truly is a Suffolk gem. Dating back to Tudor times, its historic buildings now house many country pubs, art galleries, hotels and fashion boutiques, making it a popular destination for shoppers. Its beautiful landscapes have been the inspiration of many of John Constable’s paintings and it boasts the longest tree-lined village street in the country. Shopping here is a must with many boutiques and specialist shops to be discovered. If you’re a history buff visit Melford Hall, which shows the trials and tribulations of bygone years at this beautiful National Trust site. This month, the red brick stately home of Kentwell Hall will host a series of outdoor performances. It will begin with open-air opera, Gilbert and Sullivan’s the Gondoliers on 1 August, followed by open-air Shakespeare from 7 to 9 August with performances of The Twelfth Night and Much To Do About Nothing. CLARE Situated in the beautiful countryside is the old wool town of Clare. The town has a fascinating history, many interesting and compelling places to visit, and offers a wide range of antique outlets, vintage boutiques, galleries and high quality local cafes and pubs. Just two minutes walk from the town centre is the Castle Country Park, a beautiful place to unwind or discover more of Clare’s fascinating history. Dominating the park is the motte, a man-made hill rising 70ft above ground level, at the top of which lie the remains of a Norman castle.

Photograph by Mark Staples

CAVENDISH Renowned as one of the prettiest villages in Suffolk with its picturesque green, thatched cottages and backdrop of St Mary’s Church, Cavendish is a quintessential English village scene. It has a great sense of community spirit with many clubs and activities running throughout the year. For something to eat or drink stop by The George, a welcoming pub situated on the edge of the village green. MILDENHALL Mildenhall is an attractive medieval market town surrounded by the River Lark. The town centres on the Market Place with its distinctive 16th century hexagonal Market Cross - used for hanging criminals years ago. The town is full of history, and even has the Town Pump standing in the market place as a reminder that piped water was not available until the 1940s. A market is held here every Friday and was established by Royal Charter in 1412. St Mary’s Church is one of the finest in Suffolk and the town has a good number of restaurants, shops and other amenities.

Photograph by Mark Staples

144 | DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY!

During the Second World War, Mildenhall was an important bomber base and since 1950 has been home to the United States Air Force, fast becoming one of the most important American installations in this country. For excitement head to Mildenhall Stadium, which hosts greyhound, stock car and speedway racing.

drama • muSIC • Comedy • danCe PanTomIme • TourS

Harris & Harris Books New and old books for readers of all ages 100s of specialist motoring books Children’s Literature Biographies Classics and much more

TheaTre royal Bury ST edmundS Enjoy a variety of shows and explore behind-the-scenes in the last remaining Regency theatre in the country. www.theatreroyal.org Box office: 01284 769505

Unique hand thrown pottery by Jean Knowles Open Monday - Saturday 10-5pm

01787 277267 kate@harrisharris.co.uk www.harrisharris.co.uk 7b High Street, Clare, Suffolk, CO10 8NY

@TheatreRoyalBSE

For £299.00 per annum you could have a one off professional digital video promoting your business. Price includes one year’s advertising on www.insidesuffolk.com – For more information please call Paul Moreton on 01787 312817 https://www.facebook.com/insidesuffolk

eastlife.co.uk | 145

SOCIAL SCENE Thank you to everyone who entered our July competitions! We have some very happy winners.

SOCIAL SCENE

Just incase you missed it, every month we’ll bringing you the best of the month’s social media with a mix of pics, comments and stories from our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

‘Like’ our Facebook page /eastlifemag Follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines Sue Sadiwskyj, winner of our Tom Odell comp said: “We had a wonderful evening in the glorious setting of High Lodge, Thetford Forest. The event was very well organised and run, they really know what they are doing! Tom Odell did not disappoint. Thank you so much for this brilliant prize!”

Follow our Instagram @eastlifemag

Our Jimmy’s Farm Sausage and Beer Festival was one our biggest competitions to date! Lucky winner Michelle Goulding said: “Thank you for picking me out of all the other people who entered the competition. We never win anything so this was such a wonderful surprise, one of which our little one shall enjoy big time.”

Gogodragons! Hit the streets of #Norwich #Norfolk

This month to celebrate the school holidays and summer we have lots of exciting giveaways. Prizes include board games, a family pass to Colcherster Zoo, BBQ packs and more!

Make sure you’re following us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for details on how to enter. 146 | eastlife.co.uk

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CMY

*One child free with one full paying adult. Must present voucher on entrance.Only valid when tickets are purchased at the entry gate. Eastlife. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 01.10.15. No cash value.