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December 2014
Living life in the East
Make the most of where you live
Festive Feast
tips from the region’s top chefs
Party the night away NYE venues and breaks
Christmas events Winter walks Gift guides Issue 115
PLUS: Suffolk Coast, Chelmsford, Cambridgeshire, Herts & more
The new C-Class Estate.
More room for style. Sometimes space can seem like a luxury. In the new C-Class Estate it feels effortless. Monthly payments of only £299* add to its attractions. With athletic looks and efficient refined performance, it packs a sporty punch. Right now, we’re offering you a 24-hour test drive to experience all it offers. 24 hours simply won’t be enough. But it’s a start. For a 24-hour test drive just contact your nearest Robinsons Mercedes-Benz retailer.
Robinsons Group Mercedes-Benz of Bury St. Edmunds 01284 769 676 www.mercedes-benzofburystedmunds.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401 100 www.mercedes-benzofcambridge.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777 307 www.mercedes-benzofkingslynn.co.uk Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new C-Class CO2 emissions 138-95 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road
Finance example is based on a Mercedes-Benz C 200 Sport Estate with manual transmission at £27,993.40 on the road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and retailer deposit contribution. Quotations available December 2014 and registered by 31 December 2014, excluding C-Class MY804 Estate. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Some combinations of features/options conditions apply. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. 24-hour test drive subject to availability. Restrictions apply subject
ran
cond Fund on r may to in
Representative example New C 200 Sport Estate with manual transmission 36 monthly payments of* (Term of agreement)
£299.00
On-the-road price
£27,993.40
Customer deposit
£3,825.41
Retailer deposit contribution
£1,502.99
Optional purchase payment
£14,325.00
Total amount of credit
£22,665.37
Total amount payable
£30,692.03
†
††
Acceptance fee Purchase activation fee†
£180.00 £95.00
Representative APR
4.9%
Fixed interest rate
4.90%
Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751 000 www.mercedes-benzofnorwich.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294 900 www.mercedes-benzofpeterborough.co.uk
ss
range: urban 37.7(7.5)-70.6(4.0), extra urban 56.5(5.0)-83.1(3.4), combined 49.6(5.7)-76.4(3.7).
road Road able ions bject
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. Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Based on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement. Example based on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges may on request for alternative contract lengths and mileages. This finance campaign is available on new C-Class Estate models ordered/credit approved between 10 November and 31 may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other published offer from the retailer. Terms and to insurance conditions. Mileage restrictions apply. Prices correct at time of print (11/14).
Your local, friendly, audio visual store
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T O A R S T R O E N F F S O . . S . A M T S I HR Buy any Sonos player and we’ll give you 365 days of Deezer Premiuim+. That’s unlimited access to all the music on earth, worth over £100.
Only one Deezer code can be redeemed per household. Regular price of Deezer Premium+ is £9.99 per month.
in this offer are PLAY:1, PLAY:3, PLAY:5, PLAYBAR, CONNECT and CONNECT:AMP. For more information visit:Promotion ends 31stIncluded of December, 2014. While stocks last. For terms & conditions see www.sonos.com/deezer
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WWW.ORTONSAUDIOVISUAL.COM Hertford • Hitchin • Northampton
WE ARE AN AUTHORISED STOCKIST OF 2YR WARRANTY NOW AVAILABLE Here at Ortons Audio Visual we have over 25 years experience in the audio visual market and pride ourselves on our local store style with friendly, knowledgeable staff and top class customer service. We stock only the market leading prestigious brands in our state of the art showrooms, with in-store demonstration facilities displaying the latest home theatre systems, hifi setups, multi-room audio/visual and custom integration. This Christmas, why not pop in or speak to a member of our dedicated Installation team for expert advice on your bespoke home automation requirements to make your audio visual dreams a reality .
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HERTFORD 17 Old Cross, Hertford, SG14 1RE 01992 538230
NORTHAMPTON 11 Kettering Road, Northampton, NN1 4AJ 01604 637515
ADVERTORIAL
WINTER IN WATFORD… FOR YOU
No one knows Watford as well as Watford For You, so we spoke to their team to share some ‘Top Picks’ for all the family this festive season!
Entertainment for All
Watford has activities and attractions to suit all tastes and this winter is no exception. This year we have loads of exciting events and attractions from a real ice-skating rink to great shopping and the ever popular Christmas Panto! We offer fun for all the family so why not pay us a visit?
Shop til You Drop Intu Watford is Hertfordshire’s largest shopping centre and has loads of fun events this winter ranging from fashion, beauty to Christmas activity and the Grotto to keep the kids happy!. It opens seven days a week and has over 140 shops and restaurants under its roof including John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Apple, Karen Millen, Primark, Disney Store, Lakeland and Zara, to name just a few. The gorgeous New Watford Market has recently opened and we LOVE it! Situated behind the TG Hughes building just off the High Street, it's now open Tuesday to Saturday. Housed in cool containers (based on the trendy BoxPark market in Shoreditch) it houses a range of gorgeous stalls old and new. Candles, sweets and vintage clothes plus mouthwatering food to go on the upper level mean there’s something for every taste from our independent local businesses. www.newwatfordmarket.com
Glide your way into the 2014 festive season through to the new year in style with The BIG Skate! Bring your family and friends, and join us for a skate by the pond this Winter as seasonal ice skating comes to Watford for the very first time! Wrap up warm, collect your skates and celebrate the festive season in style on our real outdoor rink. Great fun for all ages, tickets are available on the day or in advance http://www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk/page/big-skate The big skate is just one of Watford Big Events, a series of 12 events running through to Spring 2015 encompassing dance, music, fashion, film, art, sport and more! Events are mostly free and take place in The Parade. There’s an event for everyone, from outdoor film screenings, music and dance to food and fashion. Find out what our next event is here http://www.watfordbigevents.co.uk/ Fancy a night at the theatre? The wonderful Watford Palace offers a vast array of theatre, dance, films and more, and many of its productions have enjoyed critical acclaim. The festive season is fast approaching and that means one thing, panto!, Watford’s favourite pantomime actors are back on the Palace’s stage for another sparkling family extravaganza. Expect live musicians, stunning sets and costumes, song, dance, slapstick, audience participation and laughs aplenty! Sleeping Beauty runs from Friday 5 to Saturday 27 December. Tickets cost £12.50 - £23 and are available from the Box Office 01923 225671 or online www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
ADVERTORIAL
www.WatfordForYou.org Twitter /WatfordForYou Facebook /Watford4You
Eating Out In harmony with its vibrant, bustling atmosphere, Watford has an abundance of restaurants to try, from fabulous independents to family favourite chains! The ‘Met Quarter’ eating area located in the town centre boasts restaurants include, Zizzi, Wagamama, Carluccio’s, Chimichanga, Nando’s and Jimmy’s World Bar & Grill, Banana Tree along with Costa Coffee shop. The extended pavements allow the restaurants to offer al fresco dining, creating a lively cafe culture feel to this part of town. Stroll up to the Parade and experience a number of authentic Italian restaurant such as family run Zinco or enjoy a taste of the USA with Tinsel Town American Diner. Whatever you’re in the mood for why not give Watford a try?
Getting Here Watford enjoys an enviable proximity to the UK’s transport network. Its location just inside the M25 at junction 19 and 20 and just off the M1 at junction 5 ensures it simply couldn’t be easier to get here. Alternatively, Watford can be reached by tube on the Metropolitan Line and for destinations to the North or the South, via overground services into Watford Junction. Here is just a taster of what we have to offer this festive season………….
AROUND THE REGION
The new C-Class Estate.
More room for style. Sometimes space can seem like a luxury. In the new C-Class Estate it feels effortless. Luggage capacity is impressive: 490 litres with seats up and a huge 1510 litres with seats down. Monthly payments of only £329* add to its attractions. With athletic looks and efficient refined performance, it packs a sporty punch. It features new levels of intelligent systems and equipment too. The new C-Class Estate - wherever you’re headed, you’re always in a special place. Experience it for yourself. Simply call your nearest retailer.
Representative example C 200 Sport with manual transmission and metallic paint 36 monthly payments of* (Term of agreement)
£329.00
On-the-road price
£30,695.00
Customer deposit
£3,776.07
Retailer deposit contribution
£2,802.99
Optional purchase payment†
£14,825.00
Total amount of credit
£24,115.94
Total amount payable††
£33,523.06
Acceptance fee
£180.00
Purchase activation fee†
£95.00
Representative APR
4.9%
Fixed interest rate
4.32%
Robinsons Group Mercedes-Benz of Bury St. Edmunds 01284 769 676
Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401 100
Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751 000
Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294 900
Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777 307
Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new C-Class range: urban 37.7(7.5)-70.6(4.0), extra urban 56.5(5.0)-83.1(3.4), combined 49.6(5.7)-76.4(3.7). CO2 emissions 138-95 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are 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 MercedesBenz new C 200 Estate Sport with manual transmission at £30,695.00 on-the-road including optional metallic paint at £645.00.(on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Finance offer based 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. Quotations available on request for alternative contract lengths and mileages. This finance campaign is available for new C-Class Estate models only ordered/credit approved between 1 October and 31 December 2014 and registered by 31 March 2015, excluding C-Class MY804 Estate models. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other published offer from the Retailer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Terms and conditions apply. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Prices correct at time of going to press (10/14).
15259 C-Class Estate Advert - East Magazine.indd 1
08/10/2014 10:10
WELCOME TO EASTLIFE
DECEMBER 2014
Editor’s Letter Dear Reader,
editor @ eastlife Publisher Sean Thompson 01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com Publishing Consultant Paul Gibson 01954 268129 paul@eastmag.com Editor Emma Kemsley emma@eastmag.com Production Manager Craig Lewis 01954 268142 craig@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 ADVERTISING ads@eastmag.com HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY.
It’s starting to look a lot like Christmas, and that’s because it is - how fast did that come around? Even the biggest of scrooges won’t be able to resist getting slightly merry with a read of our fun festive issue. If you’ve landed the task of cooking Christmas dinner for the family this year and are already starting to feel the pressure, fear not, help is at hand with our guide to perfecting the ultimate festive feast on page 25. The region’s top chefs have given us their expert advice for creating a juicy turkey and all the yummy bits in between. Between cooking and eating, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained with our round up of Christmas inspired events on page 33. We also have New Year covered from party venues, mini-breaks and what to wear. If like me, you’ve not yet started your Christmas shopping, don’t panic turn to our gift guide on page 39 immediately where you’re bound to find something for even the fussiest of people. Or better still treat a loved one to a subscription of Eastlife Magazine – 12 issues delivered straight to the door for just £24.95. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Emma Kemsley
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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.
eastlife.co.uk | 9
AROUND THE REGION
TM & © 2014 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR.
Eastlife Magazine FP 240x168 GIFTING STAGE 002.indd 1
11/11/2014 14:59
CONTENTS DECEMBER FEATURES
NEWS 15
AROUND THE REGION - the region’s top stories
LIFEST YLE 22 30 39 46 49 54
WINTER WALKS - beauty at every turn COSY COUNTRY PUBS - the best winter bars GIFT GUIDE - great present ideas NYE VENUES - party the night away NYE BREAKS - escape with a relaxing getaway ENGAGEMENT RINGS - will you be popping the question this Christmas?
EDUCATION
25
FESTIVE FEAST
Expert advice from the region’s top chefs
57
EDUCATIONAL NEWS - the latest news
60
PARTY WEAR - must-have party dresses &
FASHION accessories
HOME & GARDEN 67 71
AUDIO - how to pick a new home-cinema CHEAT THE CHILL - expert tips on how to insulate your home this winter
HEALTH 75 79
33
NEWS - the latest news and events ELDERLY EXERCISE - it’s never too late to make a change
CHRISTMAS EVENTS
ARTS
Festive fun for the whole family
83 84
ARTS COLUMN - Collette Hoefkens NEWS - the latest news and exhibitions
AREA FOCUS 89
NORFOLK - listings and festive fun in Wells-nextthe-Sea and Swaffham
99
CAMBS - what’s on and Christmas cheer across Cambridgeshire
111 117
ESSEX- shows and Christmas in Chelmsford BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS - events and the festive season in Woburn, Bedford and throughout
131
CHRISTMAS IN IPSWICH & ON THE SUFFOLK COAST Seasonal events and shopping
Hertfordshire
146
THE SOCIAL SCENE - your pictures and comments eastlife.co.uk | 11
Could you become a foster carer? If you tick all these boxes, why not get in touch with one of our experienced advisors, and find out how you can help make a real and lasting difference to a child or young person’s life.
0800 169 8388 www.fosterwithfca.co.uk
12 | eastlife.co.uk
AROUND THE REGION
AROUND THE REGION
AROUND THE REGION
Around the Region Latest News from
What’s on in West Suffolk?
New housing development in Bungay
A
former silk mill in the village of Bungay on the Norfolk Suffolk border is being redeveloped by The PJ Livesey Group.
W
ith masses of music, heaps of entertainment and a wealth of activity, Whats On West Suffolk is the one-stop-shop to help you find out what’s on in the region. Whether you have a penchant for performance or a yearning for the great outdoors, you’ll find lots of events that you and your family will love. www.whatsonwestsuffolk.co.uk lists all live music events at The Apex, along with performances at Theatre Royal and Haverhill Arts Centre and many others. With family activities including historical reenactments, ring quest adventures, bush craft, bat walks and bugs & beasties hunts, there’s really no need for your kids to ever say they’re bored.
The developer is creating Waterside Maltings, a beautiful development of original family homes and townhouses all defined by the historic Grade II listed buildings. It is also reshaping the local market seeing a huge demand from buyers for apartments within the scheme with a waiting list for the next phase to be released. The first apartments were converted from the original silk mill and showed how space and character can be combined all on one level. Such was the interest that more apartments were created behind the listed facade of the buildings and they too have all sold. The show home at Waterside Maltings is open Thursday to Monday. 10am-5.30pm. Tel: 01986 892 205 www.waterside-maltings.co.uk the perfect present
Event highlights for children during December and New Year include Panto fun at Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds with ‘Cinderella’ running from 28 Nov until 11 Jan, the enormously funny ‘Father Christmas Needs a Wee’ at The Apex on 22 Dec and a plethora of outdoor events in West Suffolk’s Parks throughout the period. If gothic horror is more your thing – the Gothica Weekend on 6 to 7 Dec at Moyse’s Hall Museum is bound to hit the spot with creepy craft activities for the children kicking off the event at 2pm on the Saturday followed by an evening screening of the classic Gothic film, Nosferatu and a pre-screening performance by Thy Last Drop. With gothic horror stories on 7 Dec this weekend event is guaranteed to give you a spine-chilling tingle.
T
he countdown to Christmas is on. If you’re stuck for a gift idea why not treat a loved one or yourself with a subscription to Eastlife Magazine. The latest news and events from across the East of England will be delivered straight to your door ensuring you don’t miss out. Subscription is priced just £24.95 for 12 issues – amazing value! For more details call 01954 268129 eastlife.co.uk | 15
AROUND THE REGION
Christmas collection Visit one of our Stores: Bishops Stortford, Bury, Cambridge, Colchester, Harpenden, Hitchin and Norwich.
Ways to keep in touch:
* Free delivery to UK and Ireland. See website for full details.
East Life Nov.indd 1
03/11/2014 12:49
AROUND THE REGION The return of Maddy Prior & the Carnival Band
Save Our waters
C
F
A group of 16 environmental charities and organisations including the National Trust, RSPB, WWF and the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust are urging countryside lovers and communities to have their say by responding to a consultation on the future of England’s waters, published by the Environment Agency.
Taking to the stage at The Apex, on Monday 8 December, the show sees them put their stamp on a range of familiar (and not-so-familiar) festive material, whilst also exploring some new and exotic directions.
ountryside lovers in Cambridgeshire such as walkers, dog walkers, cyclists, anglers, boaters and holidaymakers are being given an opportunity to speak up for the rivers, lakes, ponds, beaches and wetlands they love.
The charities are asking which stream, river, pond or landscape matters to you and are urging you to tell the Environment Agency about it via the “Save Our Waters” website. It may be a local special place where people enjoy relaxing or a popular place to visit such as The Fens and the Rivers Nene and Cam. These types of places need our help. Many of Englands’s watery places have suffered the effects of extreme flooding, drought or pollution in recent years and only a quarter of our water bodies are in a healthy state. So the “Save Our Waters” campaign is inviting everyone to tell the Environment Agency how important your local stream, river, pond, beach or lake is to you. The website also has an option for anyone who has a little longer to contribute their views, as well as pages setting out the detailed vision of the scientists and experts as to what good water management in England should look like in the future. www.saveourwaters.org.uk We’d love to see your pics of our beautiful waters, share them with us on Twitter @eastmagazines, Facebook at www.facebook.com/eastlifemag and/or Instagram @eastlifemag
ollowing the hugely popular 2012 Christmas tour with the Carnival band, a year of touring with Steeleye Span, and as a trio with Giles Lewin and Hannah James, Maddy Prior is now once again joining up with the Carnival Band for this coming festive season for their celebratory show ‘Carols & Capers’.
Together they will mix renaissance, modern and ethnic instruments with a refreshing cavalier attitude and plenty of humour putting their inimitable stamps on a range of familiar and notso-familiar festive fare. This is guaranteed to be a Christmas party to remember. The Apex, 1 Charter Square St, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3FD Tel: 01284 758000 THE FOX AT WILIAN ANNOUNCED GASTRO PUB OF THE YEAR
T
he Fox at Willian, Letchworth, has been announced winner as the ‘Gastro Pub of the Year’ and also ‘Overall Winner for England’ in the Food Awards England and Wales 2014. The award recognises and rewards pubs or bars that have successfully combined the provision of enjoyable food, whether it is hearty pub grub or a warm welcome with a high standard of management. John Anderson, general manager at The Fox said: “To be recognised in the first Food Awards England and Wales is a great honour. To be announced Overall Winner in England is an absolutely stunning achievement and we are more than delighted especially as the votes have come from the public.” eastlife.co.uk | 17
AROUND THE REGION
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stagecoachx5.com X5_March 2014 - 168x240.indd 1
10/02/2014 11:33:22
AROUND THE REGION The Only Way is Braintree
Free business support for creative companies
C
reative companies and freelancers across the East of England are being offered free business support from the Royal Opera House as part of the Culture Change programme.
C
rowds gathered last month as reunited TOWIE love birds Arg and Lydia switched on the Freeport Braintree Christmas lights. James Argent (Arg) and Lydia Bright appeared together in one of their first personal appearances since rekindling their longterm relationship earlier this summer to turn on the Christmas lights at the outlet centre. The switch on ceremony, which was hosted by Heart FM presenters Martin and Su, formed part of a fun packed day of activities for all of the family complete with real reindeers, face painting and great offers on Christmas shopping. Arg wooed the crowds as he crooned a set including festive favourite ‘Let It Snow’. Braintree Freeport will be hosting numerous events this month which include inviting guests to climb inside the Winning Whirlwind machine and grab to win prizes including vouchers to spend in centre on 15 December and a winter wonderland which features a giant snow globe and a visit to Santa 15 to 23 December. There will also be late night shopping available Monday to Saturday until 8pm.
Small creative businesses and individuals have the opportunity to get some practical and realistic advice from industry professionals covering topics such as applying for funding, making the most of social media, effective networking and environmental issues including how to reduce carbon emissions. If you are a photographer, a craft maker, a producer, an artist or a writer, if you work for a small design agency or a theatre or if you want to turn your passion into a business, there is help available through Culture Change to help you maximise your potential, effectively manage your outgoings, reach new customers and clients and ensure you can make it a sustainable business through and beyond tough economic times. Culture Change is open to all creative and cultural businesses in the East of England including Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Suffolk, Norfolk and Bedfordshire. So whether you are a one-manband or work for a small company with fewer than 250 employees, if you are established and need some new ideas or just about to make the leap into self-employment or freelancing, the Culture Change programme has something to offer you. Tel: 01708 892 849 www.roh.org.uk/culturechange
eastlife.co.uk | 19
Int ern IN et P ST ric OR es E
AROUND THE REGION
Thousands of Mattresses, Divans, Bed Frames and Sofa Beds IN STOCK with FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY * in time for Christmas!
Merry ! s a m t s i r Ch
LIFESTYLE
Winter
Beautiful strolls this season T
he East of England provides exceptional walks at any time of year but when the frost bites or the snow falls, the region’s spectacular landscapes are reminiscent of a Christmas card. If you’re looking to build an appetite or perhaps fancy walking off those mince pies this Christmas, pull on your boots and a snugly scarf and experience our pick of the region’s best walks. THE SAFFRON TRAIL, ESSEX
The Saffron Trail is a long distance footpath just over 71 miles in length stretching all the way from Southend-on-Sea in the southeast of the county to Saffron Walden in the northwest. Though most parts of the trail offer scenic countryside and stunning landscapes, we’d recommend the final section of the Saffron Trail from Newport to Saffron Walden. It is a pleasant stroll through the gently rolling hills of northwest Essex offering lovely views across the fields and valleys. However the real joy of this walk is the proliferation of ancient structures nestling along the route. Many of the buildings in Newport and Saffron Walden date back centuries.
22| eastlife.co.uk
LIFESTYLE
r walks HOLKHAM BEACH, NORFOLK Explore one of the biggest and most unspoilt beaches of the region this winter. Part of one of the biggest nature reserves in Britain, the beach is full of migrant birds during winter. Look out at the stormy seas, skyline or stroll along the surf where you’re bound to spot a variety of wildlife.
RIVER LEA, HERTS The River Lea between Hertford and Ware offers a short yet scenic and enjoyable walk. Great for those that don’t fancy anything to strenuous, the walk is only 1.3 miles in total from Hertford Castle Weir to Ware Lock so can be completed in under an hour. There are also a couple of pubs to be found at each destination so you can warm up before walking back.
WICKEN FEN, CAMBS Straddling the Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire border, the marshes of Wicken Fen are part of one of the oldest nature reserves in Britain. The National Trust has encouraged wildlife into the area and on your walk you will discover an abundance of insects and birds – look out for the highland cattle and Konik ponies at Bakers Fen.
THE BRECKS, SUFFOLK Sitting to the west of Suffolk lays the beautiful Brecks. As one of the driest parts of the UK and offering a landscape of sandy soils, which are light and free draining it is the ideal location for a winter walk. During the winter months, the heathland of the Brecks is a subtle tapestry of greens, browns and golds, brought to life by the slanting winter sun.
eastlife.co.uk | 23
NUMBER 1 Delicatessen and Cafe Cafe open for breakfast, lunch and snacks
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9-5pm Closed Sundays GET YOUR BESPOKE CHRISTMAS HAMPER HERE 1 High Street, Clare, Suffolk 01787 278932
Christmas Menu
Looking to organise your Christmas Party Night out, Office Lunch or simply a get together with friends over the festive period? Then look no further! See our Christmas Menu on our website and book for an unforgettable – and unashamedly indulgent – festive meal.
Wedding Reception & Party Venue
A beautiful, relaxed, stylish & intimate venue in the heart of the picturesque Georgian village of Woburn. Celebrate with a select number of guests or hire on an exclusive basis (seating for up to 65 people).
A Meeting Place
Planning a business lunch or catching up with friends or family? Free WiFi available in a relaxed & welcoming setting.
Events
Free live jazz from the fabulous “Jazz Brothers” alternate Sundays 12.00pm – 3.00pm. Regular classical music and live opera evenings. Please check our website for details of all our events.
EVERY THURSDAY EVENING: Attend our Supper Club from 18:00 2 Starters, 2 Mains, Dessert to share – all for £30!
24 | eastlife.co.uk
Woburn Brasserie, 13 Bedford Street, Woburn MK17 9QB Tel: 01525 290260 Email: info@woburnbrasserie.co.uk www.woburnbrasserie.co.uk www.facebook.com/woburnbrasserie www.twitter.com @WoburnBrasserie Mon to Fri 10am - 3pm, 6pm - 9.30pm Saturday 10am - 10pm, Sunday 10am - 3pm
LIFESTYLE
Festive Feast
Learn how to perfect the christmas dinner with the help of the region’s experts
F
rom battling it out in the supermarket car park for a space to then standing at the checkout for hours, all to spend a small fortune on delicious festive goodies for the family, Christmas Day dining is tough and that’s before you’ve even attempted to cook. For most of us Christmas Day dinner still remains the highlight of the festive period, though it can present quite a challenge, even for experienced cooks. Before you whip yourself into a frenzy in the kitchen, we asked some of the region’s top chefs to give us their advice of perfecting the turkey this Christmas. Tasty Turkey We all know that turkey has a reputation for being dry and bland, but despite this it’s still the main bird of choice for festive celebrations. To ensure your turkey is tender and juicy, Mark Poynton, chef patron for Michelin-starred restaurant Alimentum in Cambridge, gave us his expert advice.
“I think you have to follow a few basics in order to get a really tasty turkey. I start by removing both legs and lightly seasoning with rock salt for 2 hours,” he begun. “While this is seasoning, I remove the wishbone from the turkey and all of the innards apart from the neck bone. Then, when the legs have salted, I will wash off the salt and dry with a kitchen towel ready to begin cooking. “Slowly cook the legs in goose or duck fat for 3 to 4 hours to ensure the meat is kept succulent and tender, so it just falls off the bone. Then strip all the meat off both legs, making sure there are no small bones or gristle and place into a bowl and season with lemon zest, thyme petals and salt to taste. Put aside and reserve for serving.
eastlife.co.uk |25
LIFESTYLE
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LIFESTYLE
Tasty Treats Organic juice For the non-drinkers of the family or to nurse the party hangover, try the beautifully refreshing James White Drinks. Straight from White’s Fruit Farm in Suffolk come some of the finest pressed fruit and vegetable juices, which are a fabulous choice for Christmas. Tantalise your taste buds with the elegant range of ‘Classics’, flavours include sophisticated Bramley, Russet and Cox and Summer Berries and Elderflower mixes. Step back in time with their refreshing favourites - Ginger Beer and Lemon Refresher or warm the cockles of your heart with their ‘Uncle Cornelius’ finest spiced Ginger. Prices start from £2.50. Just as delicious hot as it is cold, savour it on its own or drink with a generous splash of whisky, ‘Big Tom’ (tomato juice) is blended with over 20 different herbs and spices and guarantees the perfect Bloody Mary every time by simply adding a splash of vodka and a stick of celery. Alternatively it is equally satisfying by itself and a perfect seasonal drink for everybody. Mulled Cider Christmas wouldn’t be complete without something mulled. Rather than the classic wine recipe try Henry Westons Mulled Cider. Produced from bittersweet apples grown on his farm in Much Marcle, Herefordshire, the cider is packaged in a resealable box making it perfect for entertaining guests. Enjoy cold or simply warm up in saucepan and indulge in the beautiful spicy festive aroma. The cider is available in selected Tesco, Waitrose and Co-op stores, priced £7. Flavoured oil For a healthy roast potato try adding the awardwinning Mrs Middleton’s cold-pressed rapeseed oil produced from the seed grown on a family farm on the Barton Hills in Bedfordshire. The flavoured oil is a great healthy alternative to using traditional duck fat. Flavours include chilli, garlic, basil and lemon and are sold in 250ml bottles priced at £4.50 each. They all also make for a great Christmas present with a gift pack priced £15 for all four flavours. Local stockists are available within Beds, Herts and Cambridgeshire.
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ADVERTORIAL
AROUND THE REGION
Fine seafood and quality fish & chips
www.coastfish.co.uk
15 Trinity Street, Cambridge 01223 351344
COAST CELEBRATE ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY Located in the heart of the city on Cambridge's oldest street, Trinity Street, Coast is a modern British fish and chips restaurant, which also offers a selection of grilled fish, salads and seafood dishes such as oysters and lobster. Having recently celebrated its first anniversary, Coast’s prides itself on quality and only use the best British potatoes, delicious homemade tartare sauce and fresh fish from sustainable sources. It has a large area where it can host groups and also a take away section where your fish is cooked to order so you will be sure to enjoy the walk around Cambridge's historic centre.
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The restaurant is open from 9am daily where it offers possibly Cambridge's finest full English breakfast. It closes at 10pm Monday - Saturday and 9pm on a Sunday. From bacon and sausage sourced from local farms, Heinz baked beans, local free range eggs and even ketchup produced in Suffolk, its full English breakfast really is the perfect start to start the day. There are also daily lunch deals and currently regular cod & chips to take away for only ÂŁ4.95. 11:30am - 3:30pm
Coast hopes to welcome you soon.
LIFESTYLE
Winter Warmer
As the seasons evolve so do the region’s country pubs...
T
here’s nothing quite like walking into a cosy pub after a walk on a cold winters day and settling by the fire with a glass of local ale or wine. Winter brings an intimate feel to a pub, a homely atmosphere and with the festive season comes delightful and indulgent Christmas menus to be enjoyed. If you’re looking to sip something mulled in front of a roaring fire this winter we have it covered.
CAMBRIDGESHIRE The Eagle Bene’t Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QN Nestled in the cobbled streets of the city centre, The Eagle is a popular and traditional pub dating back to the 14th century. The pub is atmospheric and draws in the crowds with its courtyard, cask ales and historic features including the famous RAF ceiling which boasts signatures of RAF pilots from all over the world who signed their names on the ceiling using only cigarette lighters and candle smoke. The pub even has its very own ghost. Tel: 01223 505020 The Brampton Mill Bromholme Lane, Brampton, Huntingdon, PE28 4NE Housed in an converted mill and positioned on the River Ouse, the pub is filled with cosy corners, comfy armchairs, open log fires and features an impressive dining room where you can tuck into one of the freshly prepared meals for lunch or dinner. Tel: 01480 459758
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FASHION LIFESTYLE
NORFOLK
BEDS & HERTS
Ship Inn Brandon Creek, Downham Market, PE38 0PP Offering panoramic views, the Ship Inn has a fabulous waterside location where Great Ouse and Little Ouse rivers converge. After a fresh brisk afternoon walk or on a frosty or snowy afternoon, the pub is great for relaxing in front of the fire and sampling one of the many wines or cask ales. Tel: 01353 676228
The Rose & Crown 22 High Road, Essendon, Hatfield, AL9 6HW Situated at the centre of the village of Essendon, The Rose and Crown embodies warm and hearty features of a traditional English pub. You can enjoy a drink within the original flagstone walls and open fire of the bar area or dine in the comfy and contemporary restaurant. Tel: 01707 261229
Rose & Crown Old Church Road, Snettisham, King’s Lynn, PE31 7LX One visit to the Rose and Crown and it’s easy to see why it was recently voted ‘Pub of the Year’ in the 2015 Good Pub Guide. The delightful 14th century pub offers twisting passages and hidden corners, low ceilings and old beams, pamment floors and log fires, excellent beers, friendly staff and a relaxed, informal atmosphere – a must visit this winter. Tel: 01485 541382
The Black Horse 1 Bedford Street, Woburn, Milton Keynes, MK17 9QB Having recently celebrated its tenth anniversary, The Black Horse is a beautifully designed pub that has given its traditional features a modern twist to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu comprises quality dishes using only the finest British produce. The quality continues to its drinks menu which features wine from award-winning suppliers and premium spirits. Tel: 01525 290210
SUFFOLK
ESSEX
The One Bull Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1UZ As Bury’s oldest pub it comes as no surprise that The One Bull knows how to deliver. Offering a warming atmosphere, a great selection of wine, beer and ale and indulgent menu, this is a great place to escape the cold after a day of Christmas shopping. Tel: 01284 848220
The Eight Bells 18 Bridge Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1BU Located in the charming historic market town of Saffron Walden, The Eight Bells pub is a welcoming and delightful place to stop by for a quick drink or bite to eat. The original features of the 16th century barn have been beautifully restored and you’ll find comfy spots to sit back and relax. Tel: 01799 522790
The Crown Market Hill, Framlingham, Woodbridge, IP13 9AN Warm, cosy and rustic, The Crown ticks all boxes for a classic winter pub. The Grade II coaching inn, which overlooks the historic central square prides itself on its stunning and equally delicious food, high quality rooms and contemporary décor featuring antique furniture. Tel: 01728 723521
The Cricketers Wicken Road, Clavering, Saffron Walden, CB11 4QT Owned and run by Jamie Oliver’s parents, this delightful 16th century English country inn serves amazing, award-winning food in the comfort of roaring log fires, beamed ceilings and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Tel: 01799 550442
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THE MADDERMARKET THEATRE’S CHRISTMAS PRODUCTION 2014
Friday 19 December Saturday 3 January
The B Little iggest Christ ma Show in To s wn
by Mary Norton, adapted by Charles Way and with the kind permission of Walt deFaria DIRECTED BY PETER SOWERBUTTS Maddermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley, Norwich NR2 1DR Box Office: 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk Every effort is made to ensure accuracy of detail in this brochure but errors and omissions can occur. Kindly supported by:
Every effort is made to ensure accuracy of detail in this brochure but errors and omissions can occur. Kindly supported by:
The John Jarrold Trust The John Jarrold Trust
NTR Peter Pan (Eastlife Magazine) 148.5x107 copy.qxp_norfolk journal Feb v5 07/11/2014 11:48 Page 1
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LIFESTYLE
Ofestive funO christmas is a magical time of year and whether you are aged 3 or 30, these fun festive events are bound to get you excited... FESTIVE FUN FOR KIDS
Farm-tastic Santa
All aboard at Audley End
Lee Valley Park Farms will be hosting plenty of family entertainment this season. The fun begins on 13 to 14 December with ‘Farm-tastic Santa’ which includes all the fun of the farm plus a visit to Santa’s grotto, elves and reindeers. The same event will also be available 20 to 23 December.
See children’s faces light up as they hop board the Audley End Miniature Railway this month. The ‘Christmas Special’ ride will take them on a one and a half mile train ride to meet Santa and his helpers at his magical grotto in the woods. Santa will meet every child and give them a gift.
For festive fun for the whole family jump aboard The Lady of Lee Valley from 20 to 21 December, where adults can enjoy mulled wine and mince pies during the one hour cruise of festive cheer and children can get into the Christmas spirit listening to carols and receive a gift from Santa. Tickets cost £8.50 per person and booking is required. Tel: 01992 462 085
While the kids have fun parents can warm up with a hot chocolate and marshmallows or even a mulled wine. The train will run 6 to 7, 13 to 14 and 17 to 24 December between 11am and 3.45pm. Booking is highly recommended. Tickets can be purchased at www.audley-end-railway.co.uk
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LIFESTYLE
Santa Claus LANDS At Watford Colosseum From 29 November to 24 December,Watford Colosseum will host a festive season with the story of ‘Santa Claus and the Christmas Adventure.’ Suitable for ages 2 plus, the performance is filled with songs, nursery rhymes and magic and promises to be a truly unforgettable experience, including the magical moment when snowflakes fall over the audience. As an added Christmas treat all of the good boys and girls in the audience will meet Santa after the show and receive a special gift of their own. Tickets are priced from £10. Tel: 0845 075 3993 Themed Characters at Smiths Row Get into the festive spirit at Smiths Row, Bury St Edmunds, and join illustrator Joel Millerchip in a family friendly workshop on Saturday 6 December. Throughout the day Joel will be bringing Yule themed characters to life in his own distinctive style. There’ll also be the chance for children to make their own jumping puppet and weave stories from the characters they create. £3 per participant. Tel: 01284 762081 Ice Skating at Ufford Park There’s nothing quite like the thrill of ice-skating at Christmas and for a visit that won’t break the bank head to Ufford Park in Woodbridge. On 21 December from 2pm to 9pm ice-skating will be available at the bargain price of £5 for adults and £3.50 for children. Soak up the festive atmosphere with a glide across the ice and a browse of the Christmas Market. Ice-skating must be booked in advance. Tel: 01394 383555 Steam trains to Santa The ever-popular Santa Specials at Bure Valley Railway return this Christmas. The Santa Train departs from Wroxham Station and travels to Aylsham Station where Santa and his railway sleigh are there to welcome everybody. Children will get to visit Santa in his grotto and receive a personalised gift, and there will be entertainment and festive refreshments for all the family to add to the Christmas magic, before climbing aboard the Santa Train for the return journey to Wroxham. Steam Trains to Santa experience takes approximately three hours, including a named present and only costs £15.00 per person (adults and children). The Santa Specials this year are running weekends from 29 November and daily from 19 December, up to and including Christmas Eve. Booking is essential. Tel: 01263 733858 eastlife.co.uk | 35
BURE VALLEY RAILWAY
Steam Trains to the Norfolk Broads
R UNDE 5’S L E TRAVEE FR
MINCE PIE SPECIALS December 27th - January 4th FREE Mince Pie for every fare-paying passenger
TRAINS FROM AYLSHAM AND WROXHAM No Booking Required Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW - 01263 733858
www.bvrw.co.uk
Gainsborough’s House Museum, Gallery & Shop
As we approach the festive season, we will be stocking unusual seasonal gifts, for that perfect present not readily available on the high street. From 18 November until 6 December there is 10% discount on all chocolate!
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sundays 11am to 5pm Gainsborough’s House, 46 Gainsborough Street, Sudbury Suffolk CO10 2EU Telephone: 01787 372958 Email: mail@gainsborough.org Website: www.gainsborough.org charity number: 214046 36 | eastlife.co.uk
LIFESTYLE
CHRISTMAS CHEER FOR ADULTS Christmas Shopping at Sopwell House
Talking Shop at Gainsborough House
If you’re looking for a great excuse for a girls night out in the lead up to Christmas, pop along to Sopwell House’s Spa Christmas Shopping Evening on 4 December from 7pm to 9pm.
The newly refurbished shop at Gainsborough’s House offers a range of garden, chocolate and tea inspired items whilst adding a touch of silk as a nod to Sudbury’s important heritage.
The evening will feature a variety of spa products from ESPA, Clarins and OPI, ranging from individual items to gift sets. There will be a number of spa treatments available to try, demonstrations such as product testing and gift wrapping and tips for you to try at home. There will be drinks and canapés throughout the evening with the opportunity to dine in The Brasserie featuring an exclusive Italian Themed menu. Tickets are priced £19 per person or £39 including dinner. Tel: 01727 750510
A wide selection of books, cards, games and art are also here to tempt you. The new jewellery selection is inspired by nature and the pearl range features a beautiful pearl choker, bracelets and earrings.
Festive Treats at Perrywood Garden Centre Christmas at Perrywood Garden Centre is always a special experience for visitors of all ages. One thing that never fails to impress is its award-winning Christmas displays. This year’s themes include Nordic Noel, Copper & Blue and Elegance. You’ll be able to pick up hints and tips on dressing your Christmas table and shop the wide selection of beautiful Christmas wreaths and lighting. After browsing the fabulous Christmas décor, take the time to sample one of the delicious festive dishes available served at the Coffee Shop or to make the afternoon extra special book afternoon tea served in the Terrace Room with panoramic views of the countryside. Tel: 01376 57077
During the festive season the store will be stocking unusual seasonal gifts for that perfect present not readily available on the high street. Still stuck for a present? How about a gift membership pack for a friend or relative for only £25? The pack includes a notebook, bookmark, gift cards, postcards and a Gainsborough’s House pencil and can be gift wrapped and mailed directly on your behalf. There’s also an opportunity to get in the festive spirit with a late night Christmas Shopping evening on 6 December from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Pop along for a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie and enjoy the relaxing shopping experience while the Stour Valley Singers entertain you with carol singing. Tel: 01787 372958
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established since 1984
BODY L I M I T S CLINIC & GYMNASIUM
Leading The Way In Health & Fitness • Physiotherapy • Osteopathy • Podiatry home visits available • Acupuncture • Massage • Shiatsu • Private health insurances accepted
• Orthotics • Full Gym Facilities • Sports Massage • Sports Therapy • Saturday Appointments • Male & Female Therapists • Specialists in Sports Injuries
Other sports and health related benefits include Circuit training, Personal training, Home nutrition programmes, Back care advice, Gym vibrating plate Running club for all abilities
sPEcIaL OFFER (LIMITEd TIME ONLy)* £5 per week gym membership l No joining fee l Personalised training programme l Free 30 minute massage l Free health check *(terms and conditions apply)
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01908 615045
99 Wolverton Road, Newport Pagnell MK16 8HX www.bodylimits.co.uk Email: bodylimits1@btconnect.com
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GIFT GUIDE
Gifts for Everyone Have you left your Christmas shopping to the last minute and are now suffering from a major case of gifter’s block? Don’t panic, there’s still plenty of great gifts to be found with Eastlife’s pick for perfect presents…
If decorative fancies are what your loved one desires, then why not treat them to the delightful Hendrick's Gin Teapot. Whether for cocktails, tea or decoration, this charming decanter offers a more refined and unusual sipping experience. £30 Available from uk.hendricksgin. com/teashop
What man doesn’t love beer & food? Present dilemma solved. £16.99 White Stuff, Abbeygate Street, Bury St Edmunds
Who hasn’t fallen in love with Monty the penguin this Christmas? With a wet Christmas likely, stay dry with the help of Monty & Mabel. £19 John Lewis, Grand Arcade, Cambridge
Cable, striped and cheap – this knit from Primark ticks all the boxes for an easy Christmas gift. £16 Primark, Town Square, Stevenage
No matter how full you are, there’s always room for cheese. This set is great for foodies. Camembert dish, £10, Cheese knives, £15. Available from Sainsbury’s
eastlife.co.uk | 39
Christmas Grotto Every Weekend until 24th December
CHRISTMAS FUN AT CLACTON FACTORY OUTLET
Come and meet Santa Claus in his Enchanted Village and receive an early Christmas present. Just £4.00 per child with a present or £5.50 including a present and photo. Please visit our website or contact us for full Grotto dates & times.
Late Night Christmas Shopping Event 18th December 4pm – 8pm Join us for some late night Christmas shopping and join in the fun! • Dream 100 DJ and Roadrunners (5pm – 8pm) • Have your photo taken inside our Giant Snow Globe • Face Painting • Games • Live singing and dancing performances • Balloon Modelling
Coca-Cola Christmas Truck 22nd December 11am-6pm To celebrate the festive season, Coca-Cola is sending its iconic Christmas truck on tour. Be sure to visit us to enjoy the magic of the truck, a chilled Coca-Cola and Diet Coke, to the sounds of festive music.
For more information on our Christmas events & Christmas opening hours please contact us or visit us online www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk 01255 479595
FASHION OUTLETS • LEISURE STORES • PLAY AREA FURNITURE & HOMEWARES • CAFES • FREE PARKING
GIFT GUIDE
Show her your fashionable side with this on-trend brown bear cowl. £32.99 Beachcomber, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea
Every girl loves handbag… Aspinal of London Deer Sofia Mini Bag £350 at House of Fraser
Keep feet warm and snug this winter with Modish’s fab range of slippers. Brown Slippers, £30 Sheepskin, £39.99 Modish, George Street, Saffron Walden
Precious Etienne black and white underwear set by Caprice. £41. Maison De La Femme, Broadway St, Leigh-on-Sea
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GIFT GUIDE
Gifts for Women We all know that men are experts at leaving their Christmas shopping to the last possible moment. However, Christmas is closing in and the woman or women in your life (yes, don’t forget about your mum or sister and possibly even that aunt that’s stopping by for the festive period) will be expecting a gift. With that in mind, check out our handy list of gifts for women.
Christmas is the perfect timing for this across the body clock bag. £25 Accessorize, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough
Make mums-to-be feel special with this beautiful lace maternity dress from JoJo Maman Bébé, the UK’s leading mother and baby boutique brand. £49 www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk
Every woman loves new pjs for Christmas and what’s not to love about Yawn’s luxurious hand-drawn designs. Sets £99 Boudoir Femme, King Street, Cambridge
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happy New YEAR
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LIFESTYLE
I
f there’s one time of year that calls for a celebration it’s New Year’s Eve. Even if you’re not a party fan it’s hard not get caught up in the excitement of the big countdown. Whether you like to dance until you drop or prefer to see midnight in with a sumptuous meal, we have the lowdown on the best places to yell “Happy New Year.” Hotel Felix, Cambridge With its chic and contemporary restaurant and classy bar area, Hotel Felix is a great place to sip champers in front of a fire this NYE. The talented chef has prepared a mouth-watering new threecourse menu especially for the occasion for a reasonable £70 per person. The cost includes a glass of fizz on arrival, coffee and petit fours. The New Year will be seen in with the sounds of live jazz performed by a popular local band. The hotel offers 52 luxurious bedrooms for those looking to make the most of the evening and stay over night. Whitehouse Lane, Huntington Road, Cambridge CB3 0LX. Tel: 01223 277977 Dunston Hall, Norfolk New Year’s Eve can be as relaxed or as lively as you choose at Dunston Hall. The beautiful hotel has two fantastic packages available this NYE. For a lavish soiree opt for the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. Start your evening with Champagne cocktails and canapés, followed by a sumptuous four-course meal accompanied by fine wines. Welcome in the new year with a traditional Piper, live music and a glass of bubbly. This spectacular Black Tie event is an occasion not to be missed. Prices start from £95 pp. For something a little more subtle a three-course meal will be available at the Brasserie Restaurant. The evening includes a carvery meal, followed by a complimentary disco in the Bar and a glass of bubbly at midnight. Prices from £50 pp. Ipswich Road, Norwich NR14 8PQ Tel: 0871 222 4683 Great Hallingbury Manor, Essex Celebrate New Year 2014 in style at Great Hallingbury Manor. Great for those who are looking to dance the night away. The evening will begin with a relaxing drinks reception before enjoying a fabulous night of fine food and music. Go from dancefloor to bed in a few short steps with the hotel’s great party night accommodation rates. Great Hallingbury, Bishops Stortford CM22 7TJ Tel: 0844 411 9068 Luton Hoo Hotel Golf & Spa, Bedfordshire Welcome the New Year in with a bang as Luton Hoo hosts not one but four NYE offerings. Whatever your preference for NY you’ll find something to suit.
Guests can indulge in a five-course gourmet dinner at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, The Wernher with Champagne at midnight. The News Year’s Eve Gala Dinner Dance at Warren Weir Luton Hoo Hotel’s waterside venue is ideal for those who prefer to dance the night away. From 7.30pm, guests will be warmly welcomed with a Champagne and canapé reception, followed by a superb four-course dinner. After dinner, the hotel’s resident band will perform classics songs so guests can dance into the early hours. To ensure that everyone is catered for, Warren Weir will also play host to a New Year’s Eve Family Disco. The fun continues on New Year’s Day with a jazz lunch. Guests can settle down into Luton Hoo Hotel’s Adam’s Brasserie on New Year’s Day to listen to the soothing sound of the hotel’s resident jazz band, while a team of talented chefs delight their taste buds with a sumptuous three course lunch. The Mansion House, Luton, Bedfordshire LU1 3TQ Tel: 01582 734437 White Lion Hotel, Aldeburgh, Suffolk New Year’s Eve celebrations at the seafront White Lion Hotel, Aldeburgh focus on the pleasures of fine food, fantastic wine and good company. Set opposite the beach and fishermen’s huts on Suffolk’s Heritage Coast, the hotel is offering a two-night, half-board New Year’s Eve package starting on either 30 or 31 December. The highlight will be an indulgent eight-course New Year’s Eve banquet with entertainment and dancing into the night. On New Year’s Day a Bucks Fizz breakfast will be served from 8am until 1pm and in the evening there’s a three-course sit-down dinner in the relaxed setting of the hotel’s Bar & Brasserie. This is an ideal opportunity for all lovers of food and wine to indulge, dance and welcome in 2015 with a sense of occasion; there’s also a piper to see in the New Year. The two-night New Year’s Eve package is priced from £315 per person based on two sharing an inland facing Explorer room. Market Cross Pl, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BJ Tel: 01728 452720
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SPECIAL JANUARY OFFER Stay in one of our stunning bedrooms this January from only £119 per room per couple, including breakfast and VAT. Available for stays Sunday to Thursday from 4th January until 12th February 2015. Please quote East Life magazine when booking.
01638 713552 info@tuddenhammill.co.uk www.tuddenhammill.co.uk Tuddenham Mill · High Street · Tuddenham Nr Newmarket · Suffolk · IP28 6SQ
50% OFF IN JANUARY Stay at The Westleton Crown in January and enjoy the warmth and charm of a traditional coaching inn from £62.50 per couple per night, including breakfast and VAT.
Sunday to Friday 50% off all our room rates Saturday 25% off all our room rates This offer is available from the 4th of January 2015 - 8th February 2015. Please quote East Life magazine when booking.
01728 648777 info@westletoncrown.co.uk www.westletoncrown.co.uk The Street, Westleton, Nr Southwold, Suffolk, IP17 3AD
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LIFESTYLE
New Year Getaway
Celebrate the New Year in style with a fantastic mini-break
F
orget another boring New Year’s Eve down your local pub, why not gather family and friends together for a fun-filled mini break? A recent survey by Holidaylettings.co.uk revealed that East Anglia is demand for holiday rentals, great if you’re looking for a quick getaway or toying with the idea of potentially letting a property as a holiday home. Topping the list was Great Yarmouth and Norwich, while Reepham and Swaffham had the largest increase in enquiries in the last year.
we’re not surprised, this area of the Broads is absolutely stunning. If you’re looking to escape the hype of the New Year or just want to unwind after the stress of Christmas, head 20 minutes down stream from Oulton Broad to the Waveney River Centre.
To the Broads
Set on a marina, the park features a choice of accommodation including luxury lodges, a boutique hotel and camping facilities, although that option may be a little chilly for New Year. Both lodges and the hotel are cosy and comfortable, complete with a TV and DVD if you fancy kicking back with a film on New Year’s Day.
Popular hot spots for rentals were also Blakeney, Felixstowe and the beautiful Oulton Broad and
The park is ideal for those who are keen walkers or if you have the family dog joining you on your eastlife.co.uk |49
LIFESTYLE
break, you’ll discover miles of unspoilt countryside and endless footpaths. The pretty market town of Beccles is not too far away, and the Waveney waterside pub and restaurant is great for a bite to eat with tasty hearty food and friendly staff. Prices for a New Year break start from £99 for two on a Bed and Breakfast basis with a free bottle of Prosecco. There is a New Year’s Eve party open to anyone in the pub with music and a buffet which guests can join in with if they wish. Sleek and stylish If you fancy a country escape but don’t fancy drifting to far from pure luxury then New Year’s Eve at Maison Talbooth could be just what you’re looking for. The Victorian country house set in a breathtaking position overlooking the Stour Valley near Dedham in Essex is a home away from home. Part of Pride of Britain Hotels, the grand accommodation feels more homely and relaxing rather than having the sense and feeling of staying in a hotel. Here, you’ll be able to celebrate NYE in style. The evening starts with champagne and canapés before a piper leads you through to a fabulous five-course dinner at the hotel’s riverside restaurant, Le Talbooth, then grab your party shoes and dance the night away. A night’s stay costs from £368pp, based on two sharing including accommodation in the Shakespeare suite, full English breakfast, gala dinner with wines, use of the outdoor pool, which is heated year-round to 29.5°C, hot tub and pool house with outdoor log fire and blankets to keep guests toasty. Charming celebrations For a romantic break with roaring log fires, ancient oak beams and twinkling lights, the iconic 15th century Swan at Lavenham is a must visit this New Year. The charming historic Suffolk hotel is offering a twonight, half-board NYE package from 30 December including afternoon tea, drinks reception and dinner both days plus live entertainment. On arrival enjoy a light afternoon tea in the lounge in front of the wood burning fire. Settle into your room and meet fellow guests for aperitifs before sitting down to a four-course dinner in the beautiful AA two rosette Gallery Restaurant accompanied by international vocalist Ian Gallagher for an evening of swing.
Maison Talbooth 50 | eastlife.co.uk
LIFESTYLE
On New Year’s Eve breakfast is a leisurely affair allowing plenty of time to explore the town and local area before gathering for Champagne and canapés. The reception is followed by a grand, black tie, five-course dinner to the sounds of the hotel’s talented pianist, then dance the night away and see in 2015 with style. The two-night stay, based on two sharing a classic double or twin room, is priced from £845. City chic Described as where chic meets classic Cambridge, The Varsity Hotel is an elegant and convenient base for exploring the city over New Year. Whether it’s arts, sight seeing or shopping you are looking for there’s always plenty to see and do.
The Swan at Lavenham
The hotel features a fantastic spa for those who want to relax and its River Bar Steakhouse and Grill is located on the Quayside, with breathtaking views of the river. Stylish and contemporary with its split-level dining, the restaurant serves a range of mouth-watering dishes, including a delicious full flavoured steak, using only the finest prime beef. The cocktail and wine menu is extensive. With classic concoctions to River House specials, Champagne mixes and non-alcoholic versions available, you’ll be spoilt for choice of ways to toast the New Year. If any of these fab mini-breaks have taken your fancy find out more by contacting:
View of Carlton Marshes nature reserve from Waveney
Waveney River Centre, Tel: 01502 677 343 Pride of Britain Hotels, Tel: 0800 089 3929 The Swan at Lavenham, Tel: 01787 247477 The Varisty Hotel, Tel: 01223 30 60 30
Food at Maison Talbooth
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11 Nov East Life New Year 2014 HP_Layout 1 10/11/2014 14:35 Page 1
CELEBRATE NEW YEAR
at Ufford Park Woodbridge
Black Tie Gala Dinner
Gift Vouchers available:
Includes a glass of bubbly on arrival, a delicious 3 course meal and a live band.
£89 per person
The perfect gift for all occasions.
(over 18’s only)
Family Disco
Includes a glass of bubbly on arrival, a hot and cold buffet and a disco. Families welcome.
£49
per person (under 15’s HALF PRICE)
t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW
BEST WESTERN HEATH COURT HOTEL Christmas Carvery
Available from Monday 1st to Wednesday 24th December & Boxing Day Monday to Friday 12.00noon - 2.00pm & 6.30pm 9.45pm (Excluding Party Nights) Sundays 12.00noon - 7.00pm Boxing Day 12.00noon sitting available
Christmas Fayre
Celebrate Christmas in style, our Christmas Fayre Menu is available throughout December in Berties Restaurant & for larger functions, our Guineas Suite with Private Bar is available for up to 120 guests
New Year’s Eve Celebration
Join us & welcome in 2015, a sumptuous Six Course Dinner with Coffee & Petit Fours served in Berties Restaurant followed by our resident disco entertainment in our Guineas Suite until 1.00am.
www.heathcourthotel.com Telephone 01638 66 71 71 52 | eastlife.co.uk
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SuSSex BArn BURNHAM MARKET • NORFOLK
Sussex Barn is an eighteenth century brick and flint barn situated on Sussex Farm, just outside the attractive village of Burnham Market. It has been carefully restored to make an ideal location for truly individual Receptions, BOOK NOW Wedding FOR YOUR Civil Weddings, Dances, CHRISTMAS PARTY OR WEDDING Parties, Conferences and Exhibitions The barn Sussex is a fully licensed venue and still retains Barn is an eighteenth century much brick of itsand old flint character – including a 120ft deep barn situated on Sussex Farm, well inoutside the barthe area. just attractive village of Burnham Market.
Contact:restored Jane Thompson It has been carefully to make an ideal location for truly individual01485 Wedding210000 Receptions, Civil Weddings, Dances, Parties, Conferences and Exhibitions e-mail: info@sussexbarn.co.uk
The barn is a fully licensed venue www.sussexbarn.co.uk and still retains much of its old character – including a 120ft deep well in the bar area. Jane Thompson 01485 210000 info@sussexbarn.co.uk
www.sussexbarn.co.uk 53 50 | eastlife.co.uk
SuSSex BArn BURNHAM MARKET • NORFOLK
Thompson Brancaster Farms Holiday Cottages are the ideal base from which to explore all that North West Norfolk has to offer. Alternatively you can just wind down on the beach or by the barbecue in summer or relax by the fireside in your cottage in the winter. Scenic NorthBarn WestisNorfolk offers beautiful Sussex an eighteenth century unspoilt brick and countryside, sandy famous flint barnlong situated onbeaches, Sussex Farm, justnature outside the reserves, big wide skies and above all, a real chance attractive village of Burnham Market. to get fromcarefully it all andrestored relax. to make an ideal It away has been location for truly individual Wedding Receptions, Civil Weddings, Dances, Parties, Conferences and Exhibitions The barn is a fully licensed venue and still retains much of its old character – including a 120ft deep well in the bar area.
Thompson B the ideal bas West Norfolk wind down o summer or re winter. Scenic North countryside, reserves, big to get away f
Contact: Jane Thompson
01485 210000
For moree-mail: information on all our cottages info@sussexbarn.co.uk please contact Jane Thompson on
www.sussexbarn.co.uk 01485 210000
For mo plea
or e-mail: info@tbfholidayhomes.co.uk or visit us at
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eastlife.co.uk | 97
Two of the region’s finest jewellers lend their expertise for popping the question this Christmas...
T
tomers to tell their personal story as a key part of the creative design process. So whatever our customer is inspired by forms the starting point for the design.
The season is a magical time of year for proposals with endless opportunities of ways to pop the question. Whether you choose to do it as a surprise gift on Christmas morning, with a Christmas tree backdrop in the city or at a family gathering, choosing the ring of your girl’s dreams is key.
“They are kind enough to share with us their lovely, quirky and diverse stories with us about things that inspire them – whether it’s a place, a journey, a painting, some form of nature, a hobby or even a planet. Our customers are incredibly thoughtful when it comes to the ring inspiration and their proposal stories. Even if they don’t have a particular thing as an inspiration, we are always able to visualise ideas for them to respond to based on discussions with the designer.”
his Christmas it’s evitable that some women across the country will be getting the ultimate present on the big day with a festive proposal.
If you’re worried about making this huge decision help is at hand. Most jewellers will be able to offer a personalised service and help you choose the perfect ring. Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery, located in Cambridge and Hertfordshire, encourage its customers to tell their own love story to help create the perfect design. Harriet Kelsall, managing director of Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery said: “Our focus is delivering an exceptional level of service by engaging with cus-
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With galleries of approximately 10,000 rings that have been made, available to view, there’s always something to spark the right direction at Harriet Kelsall. As every piece is made from scratch there are no limitations for your design. Everything can be discussed at an initial consultation so any concerns you may have can be taken care of and you’ll be guaranteed to get a ring that will be impossible to say no to.
The Season of Love You don’t have to design your own to find the perfect ring. There are plenty of ready-made options available from boutique jewellers and high street brands. If you’re looking for something that’s ontend and ticks all the boxes, read what the experts had to say… Harriet Kelsall recommends: “We have noticed some wider trends within what we are asked to do – eg rose gold and palladium have been very popular in the last year or so. Pave settings have remained popular over the last few years, and of course lots of references to ‘vintage’ styles. Art Deco engagement rings and spinel engagement rings also seem to be having a moment.”
Amy Davies, Senior jewellery consultant at Trinity Street Jewellers, Cambridge: “With regards to engagement rings, diamonds will always be number one. We have a lovely range of loose diamonds in store at present including stones of the best possible quality which never cease to amaze our customers, especially those out to make an impact. “There has been a great deal of interest in precious coloured gemstones in 2014 and with more rock for your
LIFESTYLE
budget, there is one in particular that’s hot this year. The aquamarine. The popularity of this pale blue gemstone has shot up in the last few months and one design in particular is catching everyone’s eye the ‘Trinity Aqua’. “This ring consists of a 6.16ct emerald cut aquamarine with tapered diamonds set either side which have a combined carat weight of 0.60ct. The ring is solid platinum and is entirely handmade in the family workshop. This ring is priced at £10,000.”
eastlife.co.uk | 55
EDUCATION
Education news Gorseland Primary School works with Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB Volunteers
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ast month pupils from Gorseland Primary School in Martlesham planted 30 trees donated by the Woodland Trust in its school grounds as a focal point for their commemoration of the start of WWI. The school will make a photo diary of the trees as they grow over the next four years, after which it will celebrate the anniversary of the end of WWI. In assisting with this project the Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is continuing to deliver opportunities for a range of volunteers and communities to help conserve and improve the nationally important landscape of the Suffolk coast.
Dr.Hilary Jones visits Cambridge School TV’s Dr.Hilary Jones, and Emma Wileman founder of the charity Haydn’s Wish have visited The Leys School, an independent boarding and day school for girls and boys aged 11 to 18, in Cambridge, as part of a health campaign to raise awareness of the link between asthma and allergies. The campaign called “Best To Test” is designed to improve the diagnosis of allergies, which in turn could save lives. Emma’s son, Haydn, tragically died aged nine due to anaphylactic shock caused by the combination of asthma and an allergic reaction to peanuts. “The campaign is urging parents, particularly of children with asthma, to seek help for tiny changes in their child’s symptoms from patches of eczema to the onset of hay fever, which could indicate they’re at risk of developing a food allergy,” said Dr Hilary. Speaking from personal experience, Emma Wileman who has recently been nominated for the Pride of Britain Award said: “We knew Haydn was severe asthmatic, but the peanut allergy came completely out of the blue. I, as a parent, had no idea what allergies were about and certainly didn’t realise the potential severity of them.”
Darron Jackson, headteacher at Gorseland Primary School said: “The planting of the trees is a solemn event to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the start of World War One. On Armistice Day the trees will be dedicated to the memory of those who fell. “Our children have been learning about how to build friendships and how to resolve conflicts between each other peacefully; as well as about the war itself. This culminates in the dedication of the trees and the poppies the children have made and the garden of remembrance the children have created.” There are numerous ways people can get involved to help conserve and enhance the outstanding landscapes of the AONB, including practical handson tasks. The tasks are designed to maintain and improve the environment for wildlife, recreation and landscape quality. New task programmes covering the period to March 2015 have recently been released by the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB and by its near neighbour the Dedham Vale AONB and Stour Valley Project. For more details visit www.suffolkcoastandheaths.org www.dedhamvalestourvalley.org
www.haydns-wish.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 57
AUTUMN WINTER 2014 COLLECTION
FA K E N H A M
6 Dereham Road, Hempton, Fakenham NR21 7AB tel: 01328 855312 www.elizabethdarby.co.uk
S RT A T ER
S B E EM L t SA DEC 1s
eastlife.co.uk | 59
FASHION
New year new style The season’s biggest party night is just around the corner, which calls for a brand new outfit. Take a look at the fabulous fashion offerings available at some of the region’s best boutiques and High Street stores to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style…
The jumper and skirt combo is flying high in the style stakes and is blissfully easy to create. Monelle Skirt £89.95 Jumper £74.95 Blue, King’s St, Saffron Walden
Stay warm and glamorous with this season’s must-have faux fur shoes. £30 Next, Grafton Centre, Cambridge
A LBD and colour popping Lulu Guinness clutch equallls party perfect. Therapy Black boucle shift dress £65 Lulu Guinness Red lips clutch £225 Mikey Oval crystal earrings £18 House of Fraser, intu Chapelfield, Norwich
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FASHION
Classic and chic, dazzle in a Bernshaw dress. £419 Anne Furbank, High St, Buckden
Jazz up a LBD with a black and gold ornate waist belt. £9.99 New Look, Jacksons Square, Bishop’s Storford
Give your LBD a much-needed vacay with this Michaela Louisa jumpsuit. £165, Martha V, High St, Newmarket
This season’s must have accessory, be on trend with a tassel necklace. Day Birger et Mikkelsen ‘Fete’ necklace £75 Fanny & Frank, Market Hill, Woodbridge
eastlife.co.uk | 61
MANTLE BUSINESS CENTRES GROUP CELEBRATES ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR Mantle Business Centres group offers prestigious offices and meeting space in strategic locations throughout the East of England. Currently operating centres in Cambridge, Chelmsford and Stansted, the group has plans for further centres, including at Duxford (The Old Officer’s Mess) which will open in Autumn 2015. All of the group’s centres offer very high quality working environments, with carefully considered interior design throughout, and – above all – top class customer service. In a recent survey, 100% of clients said they would recommend the group’s services to a colleague or friend. All of the office space is fully serviced, meaning that clients do not have to worry about buying furniture, setting up their own broadband line or telephone system – or even buying tea bags! It’s all provided within the monthly Licence Fee. The group also offers virtual office services, which are great for people who work from home or are out on the road a lot. These clients can use the group’s professional mail handling and call answering services, for a fraction of the cost of taking on a physical office. The group is now looking forward to a busy 2015, for themselves and for their many clients! 62 70 | eastlife.co.uk
CONSUMER
Martin Lewis How to save money this winter
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rrrr...the mercury has started to tumble, summer’s warmth seems a distant memory and the central heating is starting to kick into gear. As it’ll only get colder, now’s the time to ensure you’re set up for winter to keep the cost down and the heat up. Find out where your stopcock is. Everyone should know where their mains water off switch is. Frozen pipe bursts create an average £7,000 of damage, made worse if you can’t find the off switch as your home floods. To help locate yours there’s a nice Thames Water video at www.mse.me/stopcock. Switch energy now and you could get £100s back. This is a great time to switch energy supplier if you pay by direct debit, as it’s likely you’re in credit after the low use summer months. Therefore switch now, and provided you ask for it – so ask - you’ll likely be given cash too, switch after winter and you may be in debt. It can take two months to change to a new supplier, so do it ASAP so you’ve the cheaper price in time for the cold spell. Paying energy by monthly direct debit is cheaper. It discounts your bill by up to 6%. Firms then estimate your annual usage and divide it by 12 so you’re likely to build up credit after summer and be a little in debt after winter. Always do regular meter readings for accuracy, as your bill is estimated. And if they try to push your direct debit up unfairly (eg, you’re heavily in credit) you’ve a right for it to be fair, just call and ask for it to be lowered. Breakdown is more likely at winter and the consequences more severe yet policies can be very cheap. For breakdown, home start and onward travel www.autoaidbreakdown.co.uk is £40 a year, though it’s a ‘pay and claim’ policy so here it sends a local pick-up truck that you have to pay, then you can reclaim the cash later. If you’ve got cover and are at renewal, then HAGGLE - 90% of AA customers and 78% with the RAC lowered their rates by bartering. For more deals see www.mse.me/breakdown.
Free loft/cavity wall insulation, open-to-all. Energy firms get fined if they don’t meet Eco quotas, so some give free insulation. www.britishgas.co.uk free insulation allows anyone in England, Scotland or Wales with a suitable home to get it (ie, you don’t have to be its customer or on a low income). The Energy Saving Trust estimates you’ll see a reduction in bills of £290/yr compared with a typical uninsulated home. Many energy firms use our fear of losing heating to charge hefty insurance costs. They also want us to think there’s some link between our energy provider and our boiler cover. There isn’t - you’re not locked in. a) Renters usually don’t need it, as their landlord’s likely responsible. Check. b) Ensure you know what cover you need, choose between boiler-only or central heating cover. c) To find the cheapest compare via www.uswitch. com and if you have more time add www.energyhelpline.com and www.moneysupermarket.com for a wider comparison. Are you entitled to any extra winter help? Winter is a tough time for many as the cold sets in. Therefore there are some funds which may help... a) Winter fuel payments. If anyone in your house was born on or before 6 Jul 1952 and gets a state pension, pension credit or jobseekers allowance you automatically get the up to £300 winter fuel payment. Some on other benefits may be eligible too, but will need to claim if new to it. b) Cold weather payments. Anyone on specific income support/jobseeker’s allowance/pension credit gets £25 for every 7 days it’s sub-zero. It’s paid automatically from 1 Nov this year. c) Choosing between heating and eating? If you’re seriously behind or in general financial hardship, you may be eligible for special tariffs/help. Try the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99. eastlife.co.uk | 63
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64 | eastlife.co.uk
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From initial design to final installation and completion, our kitchens are specifically and individually created to your needs from the finest materials and finished by hand too. We specialise in hardwood and granite worktops. Call us now for further details and a guide to prices. Traditionally-designed and Timelessly-beautiful Kitchens Handmade Traditional Old Pine & Painted Kitchen Unit 3, Hall Farm, Station Road, Pulham Market, Diss Telephone/Fax: 01379 608873 www.beamendskitchens.co.uk
Time to change your old boiler? The Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive will pay you 12.2p per kilowatt when you change to a biomass boiler.
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Wood fuelled heating is more accessible than you think. Contact the wood fuel specialists for an appraisal of your property.
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66 | eastlife.co.uk
* Based on UK average 18,000kw/h per year usage & subject to Green Deal Assessment
HOME & GARDEN
What’s in-store this christmas? C
hristmas is the perfect time to invest in the home cinema system that you’ve always dreamt of. Whether you’re hosting a festive party with friends or have the whole family over for Christmas Day, there’s never been a better excuse to make a change. But with so much choice, how do you know which is the best option for you?
Projector screen, surround sound or plasma? Choosing a home cinema can be a complete headache and one that must be carefully decided with the guidance of experts. Before you begin think about your expectations and do your research by reading product reviews and recommendations. What do you want from your home cinema? What are the most important qualities to you – sound, picture or features? Jack Satchfield, Hertford store manager of Ortons, specialists within audio visual, offered his advice for picking the right option: “More often than not it is speaker downsizing which is presented when upgrading but when buying from new, it is normal to start with the source. This could include a CD player, music streamer or turntable with arm and cartridge, which provides the best listener experience. “Amplification always comes second in the decision-making process, power handling and configu-
ration choices are guided by Orton’s sales staff to ensure maximum enjoyment when auditioning the varied manufacturer brands, along with the type of source inputs required. Sources to be considered are analogue devices like a turntable or digital products including music streaming devices like SONOS or the Simple Audio room players. “Finally, speaker choices are always a subjective decision to be made and we guide the customer by offering three different speaker listening opportunities to help in their choices. Cabinet design, colour and size are always a consideration when making that final choice. “A top tip for customers is to be sure to experience all elements of the audio system to make sure they work well together before making the final purchase,” he concluded. Setting out with an idea in mind will be key in helping you purchase the right equipment for you and your family. Alternatively, reputable specialists, such as Ortons will be able to conduct a home visit, evaluate your needs and prepare a no obligation free quotation. It’s important to remember that looking for the cheapest option, having a system delivered to your door and the using the help of a friend to set up is generally a path to hours of frustration and disappointment – who wants that when you could be watching a fabulous festive film with the family? eastlife.co.uk | 67
ADVERTORIAL
Zigis Opens its Brand New Show Room If you are looking for a new fireplace then Cambridge Fireplaces and Woodburners would like to welcome you to their brand new superstore. The huge new centre, all 8000 square feet of it, is a great new destination which will cater for all your needs. You will be wowed over the large range of choice that we have on offer, with everything from fireplaces, gas and electric fires and of course woodburning stoves. Whatever the style of your home, from contemporary to traditional we can help and advise from start to finish. There is an extremely comprehensive array of materials that the fireplaces are provided in including wood, marble, stone and micra marble. Additionally there is a vast range of wood and multi-fuel stoves and the exciting and contemporary ‘hole in the wall fire. With a wide range of gas (LPG & NG), electric fires and accessories, including grates, fronts, tiles, tools and fire backs , Cambridge Fireplaces and woodburners is the place to go!!!. No newcomers to the industry, Cambridge Fireplaces and woodburners has been providing fireplaces and more for over 35 years, with an extra 5 stores in the East Anglian region too.
The fully trained team, with a wealth of product knowledge and experience are on hand to give you all the help and guidance needed to select your new fireplace or stove and the right one to suit you and your home. We offer a convenient and expert installation service with building work undertaken too as we employ our own bricklayers, stone masons , gas engineers and others – We really do have a man for every job. Additionally,we also offer a supply only service to the public and trade so if it’s a flexible liner, twin wall flue, pipe adaptors etc we have it all Cambridge fireplaces and woodburners also offer a full back up service from gas servicing to chimney sweeping. All that’s left now is for you to visit our exciting new superstore – don’t delay and browse our impressive range, speak to our friendly staff and get your new fireplace ordered before the cold of winter kicks in. We look forward to seeing you at Cambridge Fireplaces and Woodburners, Unit 16 , Sawston Trade Park, London road , Pampisford, CB22 3EE We are open from 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 5pm on a Saturday Please telephone 01223 833523 Email cambridge@zigis.co.uk or visit our website – zigis.co.uk
68 | eastlife.co.uk
Control Cosy Real Fire
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Bring the benefits of a real fire into your home Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary wood burning stoves in East Anglia today. We have created a display of exceptional wood burning stoves and fires in a showroom to match them. A place where you can step back and take in their full visual impact. A place to see cutting edge design from leading manufacturers. A place where you can be inspired by the possibilities of a real fire.
COLNESTOVES LTD | BROOKHILL PARK | 42 HALSTEAD ROAD | EARLS COLNE | COLCHESTER | ESSEX | CO6 2NL
TEL 01787 222608 | INFO@COLNESTOVES.COM | COLNESTOVES.COM
WE OFFER A COMPLETE DESIGN, BUILD AND INSTALLATION SERVICE
HOME & GARDEN
I
Cheat the Chill
t’s no secret that energy prices increase every winter but if you’re looking to be frugal this season, we’ve asked the experts for some handy tips for staying warm at home. From snuggling hot-water bottles to consuming countless cups of tea, we Brits will do everything in our power to avoid sky high-energy bills while trying to keep warm but some simple changes to the home can make all the difference.
Energy-saving expert Phil Lamb, operations manager at Zenith Home, a Norwich based energy efficiency company, offered some simple tips to help safeguard your home against the winter winds while keeping your energy bills cheap and cheerful. “While out and about, we are always quick to add on an extra layer but what about layering up the home? External wall insulation (EWI) is a great way to increase the efficiency of your home as well as giving it a new look. EWI will dramatically reduce the amount of heat that escapes through solid walls, making your property 10 times better at keeping the heat in,” he explained. “Setting your central heating timer correctly is a simple and easy way to save on your energy bills. Fix the heating to come on for a couple of hours when you wake up to make those chilly morning showers much more bearable, and then for a couple of hours again in the evening. Don’t waste money by having the heating on during the day when no one is reaping the benefits,” he added.
According to the Energy Saving Trust 20 percent of heat in homes escapes through cracks and gaps around doors and windows. Phil advised that by simply drawing the curtains every evening it could act like a draught excluder. “A letterbox is essentially a hole in the door which lets in the icy outdoor air,” said Phil. “Fitting a letter box cover with draught-proof brushes will help to keep out the cold and is easily installed. It won’t stop the postman delivering the energy bills but it will help reduce them in the long term.” If you’re looking for a long-term method of keeping the cold drafts at bay or perhaps you would like to give the home a new look for Christmas, blinds are the most effective way to do so. On trend and perfect for stopping heat escaping through gaps around the window, blinds can transform a room. Sarah Quilliam, head of product design at Hillarys said: “Honeycomb blinds can reduce heat loss through single glazed windows by as much as 51 percent. If your windows are particularly draughty or you just want to make a statement, team with thermal lined co-ordinating curtains for extra insulation. Indira Redcurrant curtains and Chilli Thermashade blind also tick the trend for berry colours this season.” Whether you choose to make simple adjustments around the home or update the house with the latest blinds we hope you stay cosy and warm this winter. eastlife.co.uk | 71
Suffolk Carpet Weavers Visit our new showrooms at Top Street, Martelsham IP12 4RB LARGEST RANGE of Qualities and Colours in 80/20 Twist Piles in East Anglia. LARGEST RANGE of Bleach cleanable stain resistant carpets at affordable prices. Also the ONLY RANGE of Green Carpets made from recycled plastic bottles and comes with Lifetime stain and soil warranty 25 year Quality warranty. Plus LARGE SELECTION of hand made 100% wool rug in stock.
01394 610202 www.suffolkcarpetweavers.co.uk
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CQC
Fully Compliant Inspection August 2014
HEALTH
Healthy Living Drink and driving warning!
Events for disabled residents
C
T
It takes a lot longer than most people think for alcohol to pass through the body. On average it takes around one hour per unit of alcohol, this can vary depending on a number of factors.
If you have a disability but also love to dance then join in the dance sessions every Tuesday 1pm to 2pm at Hampton Leisure Centre. You can create your own moves or learn routines and have a dance off with other people. Classes are £3 for people aged five and above.
ambridgeshire Road Safety and Cambridgeshire County Council are urging people to think before getting behind the wheel the morning after a night out.
Due to this, there is a risk that people who would normally not dream of driving after drinking may still be unwittingly over the drink-drive limit the morning after. This included people going about their everyday activities such as driving to work, doing the school run, popping to the shops or to see friends. This year marks 50 years of campaigning against drink driving. Great progress has been achieved since 1964 by helping to reduce drink and drive fatalities from 1,640 in 1979 to 230 in 2012. Yet 230 deaths is 230 too many. To find out if you may still be over the limit the morning after, use the calculator at www.morning-after. org.uk/calculator.html.
here are a number of events and classes being held for disabled residents or visitors throughout Peterborough.
Know anyone with a disability or mobility issues? Then get them to try adapted cycling every Wednesday 10.30am to 11.30am or 5pm to 7pm at the Embankment Athletics Track, near the city centre. There is a range of well-maintained adapted bikes on offer. Sessions are priced £2 for people aged five and above. Bushfield Leisure Centre in Orton will be hosting gym sessions every Tuesday 10.30am to 12.30pm for those with a disability or health issue. You can make your own fitness programme with qualified instructors or do your own exercises. It’s just £2 per session for people aged 16+.
Older people fear spending Christmas alone
T
he Abbeyfield Society, a housing and care charity has warned that older people fear spending Christmas alone. Elderly people without family or friends close at hand can feel especially vulnerable, which is why The Abbeyfield Society’s annual Coping at Christmas campaign is underway. The Abbeyfield Society, which offers sheltered housing across the region, has been receiving a flood of calls from troubled older people who dread the prospect of
spending Christmas alone. Abbeyfield chief executive Natasha Singarayer said: “We want people worried about being alone over Christmas to get in touch with us now, so we can register them for an Abbeyfield Coping at Christmas event near them.” If you’re worried about a family member or friend being lonely at Christmas please call Coping at Christmas on tel 01727 734167. eastlife.co.uk | 75
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HEALTH
Elderly exercise
A
s we grow older exercise can sometimes stir up a few concerns such as ‘what if I fall down’, ‘it’s too late to do any good’ or ‘how can I exercise with mobility issues?’ However, no matter your age or your current physical condition, you can still benefit from exercise and reap the rewards like everyone else.
All the sessions are led by exercise instructors who are qualified in leading sessions for the older adult and for those with age related medical conditions so you’re in the best hands at the classes. Research has shown that taking part in the Forever Active sessions helps with conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes amongst many other conditions. The sessions also help to improve ones strength and balance reducing the risks of falling and the sessions have a great social element.
An active lifestyle is more important than ever at an older age. Regular exercise can help boost energy, maintain your independence and manage symptoms of illness or pain. Exercise can even reverse some of the symptoms of aging. Not only is exercise good for your body, it’s also good for your mind, mood, and memory.
The 2015 edition of the Forever Active programme will be available to view on the Forever Active website (www.forever-active.org.uk) from the middle of December or you can pick up a brochure from various local venues including sports centres, community centres and libraries. Sports on offer include rowing, tennis, badminton, table tennis, golf and bowls. There is also a wide range of exercise classes available including chair based classes, exercise to music, pilates, T’ai Chi, yoga and tap dancing.
Whether you are generally healthy or are managing an illness, there are plenty of ways to get more active, improve confidence and boost your fitness. There are a number of organisations available across the region that can help you get moving. Voluntary run organisation Forever Active offers a wide range of sport and exercise sessions taking place within the city of Cambridge. Developed for ages 50 plus, the scheme offers the pleasant opportunity for those want to return to a more active lifestyle and is dedicated to keeping local older residents fit and healthy.
Just because you may be slightly older it doesn’t mean the gym is off limits. Many gyms have experienced personal trainers that can tailor make an exercise programme to suit your physical ability and needs. Whether you are motivated to hit the gym or take a gentle stroll, just remember it’s never too late to change your lifestyle. eastlife.co.uk | 79
EXERCISE THAT SUITS EVERYONE...
Sessions at Needham, Newmarket, Ickworth, Long Melford THE WORKOUT THAT TONES THE WHOLE BODY! • Burns 46% more calories than ordinary walking • Great for neck, shoulder and back problems • Easy on the knees and joints • Sociable, safe outdoor exercise • Suitable for all levels of ability
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Michael Gaunt Advert (East Life)_Michael Gaunt Advert (East Life) 11/11/2014 08:37 Page 1
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ARTS
The Arts Scene
Catherine Hyde - ‘The Falling Stars’
Written by Collette Hoefkens 51 Norton Way, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 1BH. Tel: 01462 685139
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he leaves are falling and dancing and the berries are glinting like jewels. The magic of December wraps and weaves her spell around us. It is the month to succumb to the child within and leave your mind open to dreams and possibilities. Where better to imagine and wonder than in some of our beautifully enchanting regional galleries. Many of the exhibitions and shows on at this time of year are a wonderful collaboration of numerous artists. An advantage to this is the opportunity to see and experience a range of styles, media and subject matter, giving us inspiration and a hint of things to come for the following year. So for me firstly, it is back to the beautiful historic town of Lavenham, Suffolk. Nestled amongst a host of beautiful shops, galleries and eateries is the charming and spellbinding Lion House Gallery. From 1 December this ‘Cabinet of Curiosity’ will be brimming with etchings, linocuts, paintings, ceramics and jewellery. With new work from many of their regular artists and some newcomers I will be keeping my eyes open for the latest pieces from the mysterious and captivating Catherine Hyde. Transient, fluttering brush work and print making, combine to produce windows of escape and imagination where the spirit is lifted and
free. The inviting velvet darkness of her landscapes is lit and alive with glowing embers of nature, wildlife and a sense of hope. Displayed alongside these exquisite pictures is the equally tantalizing jewellery from Hannah Willow and Phoebe Sherwood-Moore. Precious and semi-precious jewels, silver and wood are entwined to create intricate, powerful and sometimes delicate pieces of adorning delight. Cabinet of Curiosity, The Lion House Gallery, 12 High Street, Lavenham, Suffolk, CO10 9PR Tel:01787 249616 www.lionhousegallery.co.uk Heading slightly south of the region you can catch another grouping of superb work. At home in ‘The Art Nest’, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, you will find gallery proprietor, Emmeline Webb and a number of her fellow artists hosting the Winter Collection. Dashing lines and wash canvases from Louise Shotter and cool, defined collagraphs from Jenny Smith McOnie, combine with textural landscapes from Lorna Brown and Klimt like dreamscapes from Emmeline. This festive treat offers yet more food for the soul and imagination with which to embrace the winter months ahead. Winter Collection, The Art Nest, 4-5 West Alley, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1EG Tel: 01462 454019 www.theartnest.com eastlife.co.uk | 83
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ARTS from
Around the Region Cambridge public invited to give their views
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ambridge City Council is inviting the public to give their views on initial ideas for a significant new public artwork for Parker’s Piece. The artwork has been commissioned to celebrate the ‘Cambridge Rules’ and the important role they played in the formation of the Football Association Rules more than 150 years ago. Four internationally-recognised artists - Neville Gabie (working with Alan Ward), Kenny Hunter, Nayan Kulkarni and Mark Titchner have now submitted their concepts for the artwork to the council. One of the concepts will then be developed further, following input received through assessment and public consultation, which begun last month. The work that is eventually selected will be funded entirely using developer contributions of up to £115,000, which can only be used for commissioning public art. The public will be invited to comment on each of the four proposals during the consultation period. In 2013, for the 150th anniversary of the Football Association Rules, the council agreed to undertake a public art commission for an artist to develop a proposal for an artwork to celebrate the ‘Cambridge Rules’. It was agreed that the commission should also signify the importance of Parker’s Piece as the birthplace of football not only within the city of Cambridge, but also nationally and internationally. The concept proposals for the artworks will be available to view online at www.cambridge.gov. uk/the-cambridge-rules until Friday 5 December.
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Smiths Row at Christmas
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new exhibition of contemporary craft and design from over 50 of the country’s leading makers will take place at Smiths Row, Bury St Edmunds, until 10 January 2015. Titled ‘Craft Work’ the works on display is all for sale and Smiths Row has firmly placed itself as the shopping destination once again this Christmas. From hand thrown ceramics and finely crafted jewellery to etchings and homewares. The makers have been brought together from all corners of the country but the curators of this festive exhibition Emily Curtis and Sam Foley have been keen to highlight the talent that is hidden in the region. “You can walk five minutes from the Gallery and meet some of the most talented individuals working in their field today and we are delighted to be encouraging them in their practise and show just how much hidden talent there is in Suffolk,” said Sam. On 6 December, the gallery will be the home of Stowmarket based illustrator Joel Millerchip. Joel will be running a festive themed workshop giving anyone aged 5 and up the chance to meet the heroes and villains of Christmas and transform them into hand printed jumping puppets for you to take home. Drop in to the gallery any time from 11am until 4pm on the 6 December to join in, it’s only £3 per person. Smiths Row, The Market Cross, Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1BT Tel: 01284 762081
ARTS Panto at Bury St Edmunds It’s panto time again (oh yes it is!) and the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds is presenting a magical, traditional family pantomime for the festive season. Cinderella is at the Theatre from 28 November to 11 January. Known for its traditional, fun-filled family pantos, the Theatre Royal will once again serve up a sparkling festive treat. Filled with catchy songs, silly jokes, dastardly villains, swirling dresses and a huge dose of slapstick, you are sure to have a ball. Written by former Blue Peter presenter, Peter Duncan, Cinderella is the first Theatre Royal panto
directed by Karen Simpson, Director of the Theatre, who has been in the post for just over a year. Looking ahead to January the Theatre is producing ‘Sign of the Times’ by Tim Firth and tells the story of Frank, head of installation at a commercial lettering factory, and his young apprentice Alan who is more interested in his iPod than learning a trade. ‘Sign of the Times’ is at the Theatre Royal from 22 to 31 January 2015. For more information and tickets contact the Box Office on 01284 769505 or visit the website at www.theatreroyal.org
Arts at The Gallery at Parndon Mill
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he Gallery at Parndon Mill, Harlow, Essex, will host its latest exhibition, ‘Present Arts’ during the festive period, until 23 December. The exhibition maintains the The Gallery’s high standard, but the emphasis is on works of art, which are affordable. The artists who have studios at the Mill are represented along with regular exhibitors of ceramics, glass, jewellery, paintings, sculpture and prints. Look out for the gallery’s next exhibition, ‘An Artist’s Life’, 15 January to 22 February, which will display colourful recent paintings and work from longer ago including screenprints by Anthony Cleyndert and complementary ceramics by Ruta Bartkeviciute. More exhibitions will be announced via Twitter @eastmagazines and at www.eastlife.co.uk
The Gallery at Parndon Mill, Off Elizabeth Way, Harlow, CM20 2HP Tel: 01279 426042
The Golden Hare Gallery
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he Golden Hare Gallery is the latest gallery to open in Ampthill, Bedfordshire. Located on Woburn Street, it is the first of its kind in the area, offering a delightful mix of individual’s artworks including paintings, illustrations, ceramics, textiles and sculptures from the UK’s top artists.
The gallery is in a large townhouse with many quirky features and different rooms. There is a spacious exhibition room which hosts constantly changing exhibitions each month. Some of the artists in the gallery include Adam Aaronson glass, Laura Boswell who specialises in Japanese wood block print, Jane White pit fired ceramics and Zoe Acketts handwoven textiles, as well as much more. With over 25 different artists from around the UK there is lots of choice and different styles and mediums. In 2015 the gallery will be encouraging creativity with a programme of workshops and courses throughout the year.
2 Woburn Street, Ampthill, Bedfordshire, MK452HP Tel: 07814 383 453 eastlife.co.uk | 85
istmas c har t Golden Hare
G i f t s, c a r d s & d eco r at i o n s
events filler_Layout 1 21/02/2012 15:05 Page 1
all handmade by British artists
L at e n i G h t s h o p p i n G until 7pm every Thursday in December with complimentary mulled wine
f r e e m i st L e to e with every transaction over ÂŁ20*
h a n d m a d e w r e at h s available for order & festive wreath-making course** *whilst stocks last **ask in the gallery for details 2 wo b u r n s t r e e t , a m p t h i l l w w w. go l d e n h a r e . c o . u k
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ARTS The Region’s Super Seascapes Inspire New Exhibition
New Exhibition at Kettle’s Yard
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The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to view Stephen Bann’s collection of poems, prints and sculptures alongside Kettle’s Yard’s permanent collection, which Finlay much admired though he himself took a different path.
Three well-established artists will combine their very different styles and approaches to show the relationship between land and sea around Norfolk. Their work is on display in the Adnams Bar at Norwich Theatre Royal until January 23 as part of the long-running series of exhibitions by Targetfollow Arts.
eauty and Revolution: The Poetry and Art of Ian Hamilton Finlay is the latest exhibition at the Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, available to view from 6 December to 1 March.
Visitors to the exhibition will encounter Finlay’s work through prints and paper sculptures, photographs and film; its title ‘Beauty and Revolution’ reflects the visual wonder of the works on show, which cannot be divorced with Finlay’s engagement with revolutionary ideas. The exhibition offers the chance to explore a private collection of works which is based in the formative early period of Ian Hamilton Finlay’s career. After their first meeting in August 1964, Bann continued his friendship and correspondence with Finlay for almost four decades. He has written extensively on the artist and provided essays for major exhibitions; his book Midway: Letters from Ian Hamilton Finlay to Stephen Bann 1964-1969 was published in 2014. ‘Beauty and Revolution’ is accompanied by a series of events, some of which underline the Cambridge connection. There is also a fully illustrated catalogue in which Bann explores the relationship between Finlay and Jim Ede from his own perspective, and suggests its continuing relevance to the debate about Modernism and Postmodernism. Kettle’s Yard, Castle Street, Cambridge CB3 0AQ Tel: 01223 748 100
he power, majesty and visual impact of the county’s coastline are being celebrated in an exhibition at Norwich Theatre Royal.
Returning to the venue will be the work of Martin Laurance, who last exhibited at the Theatre Royal in 2011 when he used the area around Orford Ness as the catalyst for his work. Based in Norfolk, he paints in a range of different media including oil, acrylic, ink and paints, and is inspired by the places he visits. The exhibition strengthens the link between Norwich Theatre Royal and Targetfollow Arts to highlight the depth of local artistic talent. It also comes as the organisers receive a nomination in this year’s Norfolk Arts Awards for their continued support to the county’s culture. Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL Tel: 01603 630000
Christmas Exhibition at VK Gallery
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ituated on Bridge Street in the picturesque market town of St Ives, VK Gallery will be showcasing paintings, ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery and decorations, perfect for the home this Christmas. The Christmas exhibition can be viewed until 24 December, 9am to 3pm. The gallery will be closed 25 December to 2 January and will resume to normal hours from 3 January. VK Gallery, 18a Bridge street, St Ives, PE27 5EG Tel: 01480 498130
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NORFOLK
What’s on in
Norfolk
THEATRE & SHOWS
EDITOR’S CHOICE
1-6 Dec The Full Monty In 1997, a British film about six out of work Sheffield steelworkers took the world by storm. Now, they’re back, and this time they really have to go The Full Monty. Simon Beaufoy, the Oscar winning writer of the film, has gone all the way with this hilarious and heartfelt adaptation that’s getting standing ovations every night. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 3-Dec Sherlock Homes and the Case of Christmas Carols Literature’s favourite quirky detective is infused with the spirit of a crotchety Ebenezer Scrooge in this festive Victorian theatrical treat. Maddermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 4-Dec A Medieval Christmas Featuring long-forgotten festive songs (plus some surprisingly familiar carols) played on authentic instruments such as cittern, bagpipes and shawm, this celebration of Yuletide Past is sure to warm the hearts of young and old. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wellsnext-the-sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 5-31 Dec Snow White Nothing is more dangerous than a paranoid Wicked Queen. Will Snow White escape her jealous clutches? Can Dame Dotty get her man? Can Herbie the Huntsman work out if he is a goodie or a baddie? Can Prince Simon of Sofaria ensure a happy ending? King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 5-Dec Winter Wonderland A fast paced colouful performance containing all those Christmas classics sure to get the whole family in the Christmas spirit. Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 6-Dec Steve Cherelles Christmas Cracker Steve Cherelles Christmas Cracker - country and comedy Christmas concert. Starring Steve Cherelle and Julie Dawn. Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 7-Dec The RAF in Concert Join the Bands of the Royal Air Forces as they celebrate the 50th anniversary
country’s best-loved regional specialities. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 10 Dec-4 Jan Snow White Ohyesityiz productions are pleased to perform the family pantomime ‘Snow White’. Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832
Christmas at Bressingham Steam ather Christmas is visiting Bressingham Steam, near Diss in the run up to Christmas, arriving every day by steam car. As well as meeting Father Christmas, visitors will be able to enjoy a Dad’s Army Christmas at Walmington-on-Sea and take rides on a steam train and Bressingham’s celebrated Victorian steam Gallopers roundabout. Father Christmas visits take place 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 December. Entry on each day will be from 2pm to 5pm, except 24 Dec from 11am to 2pm. On 14, 21 and 22 December Bressingham Steam will also open from 12noon to 2pm. Book in advance to guarantee meeting Father Christmas. Tickets in advance are priced adult £9.50, children 3-12 £11.00 (includes a present) and under 3s £5.00 (for a present). Tel: 01379 686900 www. bressingham.co.uk/Christmas
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of one of the UK’s greatest national icons - the Red Arrows. Expect a programme of music spanning the past five decades to match the colour, flamboyance and entertainment provided by those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 8-Dec British Baking Live British Baking Live will see Paul Hollywood demonstrate recipes and talk about some of his favourite regional baking. He will reveal some of the secrets of being a TV chef and take the audience on a culinary tour of the UK, showcasing some of the
10-Dec Sara Pascoe Vs History With a comedy brain that leaps from stimulating arguments onto abstract confabulation with lumpy doses of openness, honesty and earnestness, Sara shares her romantic history, existential theory and cultural insights. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 11-13 Dec Richard III As part of the celebrations of the 450th Anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth, one of his most famous history plays is brought to life in an inventive new staging that is at once sardonic, comic and macabre. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 11-Dec Jingle Belles! Christmas Cabaret Expect comedy sketches and standup, songs and magic, audience participation and festive giveaways for all. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 12 Dec-3 Jan Robin Hood A spectacular seasonal pantomime. A hilarious spectacle for all ages including a professional cast joined by local young people. With a new script from West End star Killian Donnelly this is not to be missed. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 13 Dec-11 Jan Christmas Spectacular Circus & Water Show Circus magic with the spirit of Christmas. Expect a fun and enjoyable performance. The Hippodrome, St. Georges Road, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2EU. 01493 844172 14-21 Dec A Bit More Dick An adult pantomime returns to the theatre - come along and let your hair down. This is strictly for adults only as in last years production there is language and humour of a very adult nature.
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Sales Diary 2015 Fine Antiques with Clocks & Watches
19th & 20th May 24th, 25th & 26th November
Antiques with Clocks & Watches th
th
6 & 7 January 10th & 11th March 14th & 15th July 8th & 9th September
Antiques with Collectors & Militaria 10th & 11th February 14th & 15th April 16th & 17th June 11th & 12th August 6th & 7th October
Wine Sales 20th May 26th November
East Anglian Art 13th March (pm) 27th November
Selected Quality Pictures 13th March (am) 11th December
Books & Ephemera 29th & 30th January 26th & 27th March 28th & 29th May 30th & 31st July 24th & 25th September 19th & 20th November
Country Sale
Ornithology
Every Monday (Tuesday after a Bank Holiday)
Picture & Prints
Commercial & Deadstock Sale
4th September
6th February 10th April 8th May 3rd July 2nd October
Usually held on the last Monday of the month (Tuesday after a Bank Holiday)
Important Summer Sale of Fine Paintings 7th August
Classic Car Sale Date to be announced
Palmers Lane, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6JA 01263 733195 salerooms@keysauctions.co.uk
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NORFOLK Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 18 Dec-18 Jan Peter Pan A classic family pantomime filled with fun and laughter, starring Kevin Kennedy (Coronation Street) as Captain Hook and Sid Sloane (CBeebies) as Aunt Delilah. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 19 Dec-3 Jan The Borrows An adventurous, heart-warming Christmas treat for children aged 6+ and their bigger ‘human beans’, it is a wonderful story of the tiny Clock family, who live beneath the floorboards of a large Victorian house and “borrow” from the big people above to survive. Maddermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 20 Dec-17 Jan Beauty and the Beast The story starts in a desert wasteland where our young heroine Beauty is panning for gold with her frugal father. She is discovered by a greedy film producer who plucks her from a life of poverty with promises of fame and fortune in the movies. Caught up in the glitz and glamour Beauty forgets her roots and is ensnared by a world obsessed with good looks - but looks aren’t everything right? Norwich Puppet Theatre, Whitefriars, Norwich, NR3 1TN. 01603 629921
Christmas works alongside the everpopular Fauré Requiem. Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss, IP22 4LB. 01379 652241 7-Dec Diva Opera - A Merry Little Christmas ‘Diva Opera’s A Merry Little Christmas’ is a specially devised, fabulously entertaining Christmas show featuring selection of popular arias, songs and Christmas carols to lead us into the festive season. Holkham Hall, Holkham, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AB. 01328 710227 7-Dec Smile It’s Christmas ‘Smile It’s Christmas’ in two words country and comedy. This year Nigel ‘boy’ Syer returns with a Christmas show presenting Darren Busby and Julie Dawn, two very respected names in the world of Country, singing and playing your favourite songs, keeping your feet tapping and warming your heart. Guildhall Theatre, 29 King Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1HA. 01553 764864 8-9 Dec The Michael Buble Christmas Songbook Swing into Christmas with the greatest hits of Michael Bublé. Following last year’s sell-out shows, popular vocalist Joe Ringer and his Orchestra returns. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 12-Dec Absolution
MUSIC This award-winning Modern Blues
4-Dec The Upbeat Beetles Using projection and narrative, teamed with the pinpoint accurate music and vocals of the band, this show takes you on a “Magical History Tour” - travelling through the ages of The Beatles’ relatively short yet amazing career . Maddermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917
5-Dec The Searchers Christmas Show This spellbinding show featuring 50 hits in all, plus a non-stop medley of Christmas songs and carols. Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss, IP22 4LB. 01379 652241 5-Dec The Upper Octave - From Bizet to Broadway To start the festive celebrations at Holkham, enjoy an entertaining evening of opera, classical and popular songs from composers such as Bizet, Handel, Schubert, Larson and Schonberg, performed by one of East Anglia’s most popular and talented singing ensembles. Holkham Hall, Holkham, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AB 01328 710227 6-Dec The Burgate Singers The Burgate Singers, one of Suffolk’s leading amateur choirs under the directorship of Alain Judd, present two
power trio are fast becoming one of the must see Blues/Rock acts on the UK circuit today. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 18-Dec Holly at Christmas Buddy Holly and The Cricketers once again herald in the Yuletide festivities with ‘Holly At Christmas’, the show that is now as traditional as mulled wine and mince pies. Princess Theatre, The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS
4 Nov - 10 Jan About Life: John Wonnacott and John Lessore John Wonnacott and John Lessore taught at Norwich School of Art from 1978 to 1986 and in that time made a distinguished set of drawings and paintings of the city and their teaching. The Gallery at NUA, 3-7 Redwell Street, Norwich, NR2 4SN. 01603 610561 8 Nov-14 Jan Christmas Exhibition Featuring a fabulous, irresistible selection of must-have artworks with Christmas gifts in mind. Bircham Gallery, Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 3-20 Dec Cartoons & Watercolours 2014 A fantastic collection of new paintings and original cartoons by local artist Mike Webb. Mike’s paintings are mostly of the fast-disappearing aspects of rural living that he grew up with. His cartoons, not only show his graphic skills, but are an amusing and memorable take on everyday life in Diss. Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss, IP22 4LB. 01379 652241 16-Dec Christmas Barter Party A special ‘Christmas Barter Party’ to exchange candles, decoration, and nice items for your last minute presents and a fresh look for your Christmas tree. Shakespeare Barn, 29 King Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1HA. 01553 764864
SPECIAL EVENTS 27 Nov-4 Dec 14th Christmas Tree Festival 90 decorated trees in a Grade 1 listed Church. A magical annual occasion. Fakenham Parish Church, Oak Street, Fakenham, NR21 9BX. 01328 862268 6-14 Dec Christmas Tree Festival A community event - over 60 trees decorated by local schools, clubs, groups and businesses. St Mary’s Church, High Street, Stalham, NR12 9AU.
21-Dec The Delta Pilots Take three guitarists, each from different musical backgrounds, with a touring and recording history spanning four decades, dozens of album and artist credits, shows from Moscow to Mexico and venues including the London Palladium, Wembley Arena and The Royal Albert Hall and that’s The Delta Pilots. Princess Theatre, The Green , Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252
6-7 Dec Deepdale Christmas Market Start the festive season with a really enjoyable Christmas shopping visit to the North Norfolk Coast, avoiding the City queues. Stock up on Christmas presents and decorations, while enjoying plenty of festive cheer including great food & drink and entertainment throughout the weekend. Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale, PE31 8FB. 01485 210036
21-Dec The Ukulele Orchestra The world renowned all-singing, allplucking superstars return with their toe-tapping music, hilarious banter, and sheer superlative entertainment. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000
14-Dec Norwich Farmers’ Market Local growers and producers take personal pride in the food they bring to their Farmers’ Market and want you to enjoy it. The emphasis is on freshness, quality and value for money. The Costessey Centre, Longwater Lane, Norwich, NR8 5AH. 01502 677214
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AREA FOCUS
SEASONAL
SWAFFHAM S
waffham is a naturally pretty town offering history, culture and plenty to see and do
The big switch on This month the town’s festive season begins with the Christmas Light switch on, Sunday 7 December. The event is expected to be one of the biggest to date with an estimated 2,000 visitors. The whole day will be filled with fun festive events with the day officially being opened at 2pm by Swaffham’s very own ‘Great British Bake Off’ Paul Hollywood lookalike, Alan Sagrott. The day will include the “Great Swaffham Bake Off” competition where anyone can show off their baking skills by submitting cakes, cookies, cupcakes or pies. People of all ages are welcome to take part and prizes will be offered to the winners in each of the classes. There will be three categories per age group; ‘Tastiest Sweet Bake’, ‘Tastiest Savoury Bake’ and ‘Most Creative Bake’. No
baking will take place on the day; entrants will be asked to bring their completed cuisine to the Assembly Rooms for judging. The competition display area will be open from 10am-11.30am where participants can present their entries. Judging will take place from 11.45am-1pm. Once the competition has closed, participants can leave their baked delights to be sold to the visiting public in aid of charity. The Market Place will host a full street market with delicious food and crafts available from 2pm to 7pm, while The Old School will be selling mulled wine and beer. A fun fair including fairground rides and stalls for all ages will be held on the Pedlars car park from 2pm. At the time of the switch on Father Christmas will arrive and be seated in his grotto in the Assembly Rooms where children
can receive a present. Children’s activities will be provided in the Assembly Rooms to keep the queues entertained. There will also be live music and entertainment from a variety of local performers and raffle with great prizes – this is one Christmas light switch on not to be missed. Festive fun For those visiting Swaffham throughout December, you’ll discover not only many beautiful scenic walks but plenty to do near by. Oxburgh Hall is the perfect place to get in the festive mood as the historic 15th century manor house will display trees based on a variety of themes. The Hall will take a short break from its annual winter clean, so don’t miss this opportunity to see inside on 19, 20 and 21 December. Theatre lovers should head to nearby Westacre Theatre, which will be showing ‘The Secret Garden’ from 17 to 27 December. Adapted by Andy Naylor from the much-loved book by Frances Hodgson Burnett, it’s a Christmas treat for all the family. eastlife.co.uk | 93
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AREA FOCUS
WINTER IN
WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA
Image credit: www.cycoze.com
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hough it may be a little chilly for fish’n’chips on the beach, the town is still a great place to visit throughout the winter
Christmas events Throughout the winter Wells’ beautiful natural landscapes make for stunning walks and photo opportunities and the Quay comes alive with festive entertainment. This month sees the return of the popular Wells ChristmasTide from 5 to 7 December. Held every year and organised by the Wells Carnival Committee the event hosts a delightful number of festive events over one weekend. Throughout the weekend visitors can enjoy the Christmas Tree Festival at Gordon Barrett Memorial Hall, discover a range of locally produced goods and food at the Christmas Market situated just off Staithe Street and take part in a drop-in workshop for Lantern and Craft Making on the first floor of the Maltings. There will be plenty for the kids to enjoy too including donkey “reindeers” and the arrival of Father Christmas to Wells from the ‘North Pole’ by sea. His arrival will see a procession of
lanterns, drums, fire twirlers and illuminated characters parade down Staithe Street to the Quay where the Wells beacon and the lights of the parade will help Father Christmas to find his way. His arrival will be followed by an amazing firework display. Christmas Film Matinee will take place at the Granary Theatre on Sunday 7 December at 2pm with a screening of film of the moment ‘Frozen’. There will also be a seasonal gospel soul-singing workshop held at the Maltings Community Centre from 1pm to 3pm. Shop til’ you drop Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without shopping for special gifts for loved ones and where better to pick up a one-of-a-kind present than at one of Wells fabulous gift stores or galleries. For a bargain head to Beachcomber, renowned for its brilliant range of top brands such as Barbour, Dubarry and Seasalt to name a few. The popular store will be closing for a short period
on 4 January for a bit of a facelift and to make room for the work to be carried out the store is having a refurbishment sale with some lines less than half price. There’ll be plenty of bargains perfect for Christmas gifts, stocking fillers and presents for someone special. The store will re-open in the New Year with a new seasonal stock. The Deepdale Christmas Market will also coincide with the Wells ChristmasTide. The market offers over 90 stalls and is a great opportunity to pick up handmade gifts, crafts and local produce. There are regular Coasthopper buses from Burnham Deepdale to Wells-next-the-Sea throughout the weekend. Places to eat With so much going on you’ll need to stop for a bite to eat at some point. Just because summer is over it doesn’t mean fish’n’chips is offlimits. Take a trip to Platten’s Fish & Chips to eat in a warm welcoming environment. For seafront dining, quite literally on the sea, head to Albatros, a former Dutch cargo ship permanently moored alongside the Quay. Here you can dine on delicious seasonal dishes, enjoy live entertainment at the weekends or even stay on a B&B basis.
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I DON’T THINK YOU SHOULD DrIvE THIS mOrNING...
OK, I ONLY HAD A FEW PINTS LAST NIGHT BUT I'LL TAKE THE BUS TO BE SAFE...
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CAMBRIDGESHIRE
What’s on in
Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 4 Dec-4 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk With everything you would expect from a pantomime at the Key Theatre, it presents an all singing, all dancing, and all music playing month of Fe... Fi…Fo…Fun! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 4 Dec-11 Jan Aladdin When an evil wizard Abanazer persuades Aladdin to help him on a dangerous quest to find a magic lamp, a few gold coins are all it takes for him to say yes. But Aladdin soon finds himself trapped in an enchanted cave, with only a battered, bent lamp for company. It’s only when he rubs the filthy lamp on his sleeve, however, that his adventures really start to begin. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 6-Dec Jimmy Carr ‘Funny Business’ is Jimmy’s brand new stand up show. Come for the witty and incisive musings on the human condition. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 8 Dec-4 Jan Around the World in 80 Days Join Phileas Fogg and his faithful servant Passepartout in their audacious plan to navigate the globe in just 80 days. Will they make it home in time for Christmas?With only a bag full of money, a pocket watch and a wager to win, Fogg sets out on the most celebrated literary journey of all time. The Junction, Clifton Way , Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 11-13 Dec St Neots Players – Christmas Panto Father Christmas the Panto by Mark Llewellin. Priory Centre, Priory Lane, St Neots, PE19 2BH. 01480 388922 12-Dec Frank Skinner A Man in a Suit Frank Skinner extends his critically acclaimed new stand-up tour ‘Man In A Suit’ into Autumn 2014. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Peterborough Cathedral Christmas Concert Friday 19th December 7.30pm
C
ome and enjoy some festive cheer at Peterborough Cathedral’s Christmas concert. Cambridge-based brass ensemble, Prime Brass, will join the Peterborough Cathedral Choirs directed by Steven Grahl, for a programme that includes: “Gloria” by John Rutter, “Missa Bell’ Amfitrit’ altera” by Orlando de Lassus and famous Christmas carols. Tickets £12 - £25 available from tel: 01733 452336 or www. peterborough-cathedral.org.uk
12-30 Dec Aladdin Take a trip on the magic carpet, meet the genie, make a wish and live happily ever after as Aladdin, the outrageous Widow Twankey and the hilarious Wishee Washee get up to all sorts of adventures with the beautiful Princess Jasmine. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 12-31 Dec Snow White RATz (Angles award-winning company) present a classic family fun-filled pantomime. Angles Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 585587 14-Dec Rupnzel Proteus brings you a hair-raising, foot
tapping, high flying ‘wash and blow dry’ of a show, with music, puppets, gravity defying actors and a guarantee of bad hair days. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 15-17 Dec The Alternative Christmas Carol ‘The Alternative Christmas Carol’ is an evening of three original one-act comedy plays that are based on the theme of past, present and future (inspired by Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol). Corpus Playroom, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 300085 16-Dec Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (Live Screening) Christopher Wheeldon’s full-length ballet based on Lewis Carroll’s book is an exuberant piece of storytelling featuring an instantly recognizable cast of characters, among them a tapdancing Mad Hatter, a tetchy White Rabbit and a raucously bad-tempered Queen of Hearts. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 18-21 Dec Not Until We Are Lost See Cambridge Corn Exchange like you’ve never seen it before with this breath-taking, aerial/physical theatre show which explores, in a series of short stories, what it means to be lost. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 19-21 Dec Cinderella Packed solid with comedy, excitement and adventure, the children will love to cheer their hero, Prince Charming and boo the horrible Step Sisters, Fifi and Lala as they try to keep Cinderella from going to the ball. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 1962320 22-Dec Carols by Candlelight In lavish period costume, and in front of an evocative candlelit setting, these charismatic performers perform favourites including carols, string medleys of familiar Xmas tunes, and seasonal surprises. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239
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Written by
AL MORLEY and MATT CROSBY
LOWRI WALTON As Aladdin
SAM HOYE
Coronation Street’s
As Wishee Washee
Photo Credits: Mark Ashworth/Tony Meehan
Directed by
DAVID GRINDLEY
STEPHEN BECKETT As Abanazer
4 DECEMBER 2014 - 11 JANUARY 2015
BOX OFFICE: 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com
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19/11/2014 16:14
CAMBRIDGESHIRE MUSIC
4-Dec That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show 2014 Get ready for a party as the UK’s most successful Rock ‘N’ Roll variety show, the legendary ‘That’ll Be The Day’, returns with its brand new 2014 Christmas Show. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 5-Dec Magical Christmas Tree Tour Every December three of the finest folk performers (Magie Boyle, Pete Morton and Chris Parkinson), go around the country with their magical Christmas tree, full of songs and tunes from everywhere. Cambridge Folk Club, The Golden Hind, Cambridge, CB4 1SP. 01223 420816 7-Dec Cambridge Salvation Army Annual Christmas Concert Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without the sounds of The Salvation Army brass band, Songsters (choir), Timbrels and much much more. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184
7-Dec A Medieval Christmas Featuring long-forgotten festive songs (plus some surprisingly familiar carols!) played on authentic instruments such as cittern, bagpipes and shawm, this celebration of Yuletide Past is sure to warm the hearts of young and old. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 9-Dec Brit Floyd A spectacular new live production featuring music from all fourteen Pink Floyd studio albums plus a dazzling new light and laser show. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 10-Dec Anglia Ruskin Orchestra and Chorus For their autumn concert Anglia Ruskin Orchestra and Chorus present a programme of instrumental and vocal music that reflects the meeting of the classical and popular music worlds of the 1960s. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184 10-Dec Sing! Choirs Christmas Sing 200 singers from Ely, Cambridge and Newmarket will sing a selection of pop, rock and songs from the shows as well as some of our favourite Christmas songs. Ely Cathedral, Chapter House, Ely, CB7 4DL. 01353 667735 14-Dec The Dowsing Christmas Cocktail Described as Cambridge’s answer to Pink Martini, Dowsing’s equally unconventional line-up of over 100 voices and instrumentalists will roast your musical chestnuts like never before,
leaping from ice-cool winter retro to Christmas favourites with additional spice. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 12-Dec From the Jam To celebrate the album’s 35th anniversary ‘From The Jam’, featuring original The Jam member bass player Foxton and guitarist/vocalist Russell Hastings & drummer Steve (Smiley) Barnard, will perform the seminal album in its entirety. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge. CB1 7GX, 01223 511511 13-Dec The Story of Christmas A special evening away from the crowds is a unique experience - as words, music (Ely Cathedral Girls’ choir) and atmospheric lighting combine to bring alive ‘The Story of Christmas’. Ely Cathedral, Chapter House, Ely, CB7 4DL. 01353 667735 19-Dec Christmas FiverFest Music from five great acts including Treehead, The Staycations, 28 Boulevard, The Fiction and The Avenues. The Junction, Clifton Way , Cambridge CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 22-Dec Hark the Herald-annual carol concert The magnificent 30ft Christmas Tree and soaring voices of the Cathedral Choirs supported by Ely Sinfonia create a very special Christmas event for family and friends. Ely Cathedral, Chapter House, Ely, CB7 4DL. 01353 667735 23-Dec Cambridgeshire Music Christmas Gala Join the Cambridgeshire County Youth Orchestra, playing alongside members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, for a programme of festive family fun. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 27-Dec Music in the Bar A traditional Christmas jam session for mucis lovers. Angles Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 585587
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS
1 Dec-25 Jan Silent Partners Silent Partners is a ground-breaking exhibition devoted to the artist’s mannequin, that uncovers its playful, uncanny - and sometimes disturbing history from the Renaissance to the present-day. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 3-Dec Winter Warmer and Open Studios Rowan’s annual winter open studios with a gallery and 4 studios open with art work to view and to buy. Art work,
crafts, wood work and ceramics that make lovely gifts. Live music by Cluzion Music, refreshments and drop-in craft activity all free. Rowan, 40 Humberstone Road, Cambridge, CB4 1JG. 01223 566027 13-14 Dec Yuletide of Yore! Come along and find out how the festive season was celebrated in the Middle Ages. Help the cook prepare food for the Christmas feast and make a medieval Christmas decoration to take away. Longthorpe Tower, Thorpe Road, Peterborough, PE3 6LU. 01733 864663 14-Dec Willow Christmas Stars and Trees Workshop Make beautiful Christmas decorations for inside or outside your home with expert weaver Sue Kirk. Using willow and rush, the workshop will cover techniques such as rose ties, two-ply cordage and god’s eyes – with opportunities to add personal touches Peterborough Museum, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LF. 01733 864663 27 Nov-17 Jan 26 Words An unusual exhibition by members of two leading creative organisations: 26, bringing together writers of many different kinds, and Letter Exchange whose members include lettercutters, calligraphers and type designers. Ruskin Gallery, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT.
SPECIAL EVENTS 1-31 Dec A Christmas Celebration Selected rooms of Peckover House will be decorated for Christmas with festive floral arrangements and Christmas trees. Mulled wine and mince pies also available. Peckover House and Garden, N Brink, Wisbech, PE13 1JR. 01945 583463 8-Dec Whisky World Tour Broadening out the usual Scottish Whisky tasting to have a look at whiskies from all over the world, covering several continents, starting in Scotland and moving on to cover Wales, England, USA, Japan and India. This tasting will hosted by head of spirits buyer and whisky enthusiast, James Sillifant. Cambridge Wine Merchants, Bridge Street, Cambridge. CB2 1UJ. 01223 568989 24-Dec Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols A ‘Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is the Christmas Eve service held in King’s College Chapel. The Festival was introduced in 1918 to bring a more imaginative approach to worship. The service includes carols and readings from the Bible. King’s College/King’s Chapel, Cambridge, CB2 1ST. With thanks to Cambridgeshire.net for contributing to our December listings.
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CHRISTMAS IN
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
W
ith its historic cities and rural villages, Cambridgeshire offers the best of both worlds and Christmas time is no exception. This month Cambridgeshire is alive with shopping opportunities, pantomimes, concerts and markets. To ensure you don’t miss out, take a read of our handy guide to Christmas in the county… Peterborough This month Peterborough has Christmas wrapped up with a huge calendar of festive entertainment for the whole family. Creative children aged five and above will adore the Festive Felt at Peterborough Museum on 6 December and Brillant Baubles on 13 December. Spaces on the decorative workshops are limited so booking is essential. There’ll be plenty of opportunities for Stories with Santa at various Peterborough libraries including Stanground, Central, Woodston and more from 1 to 22 December.
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Travel back in time on 11 and 12 December at the Longthorpe Tower for Yuletide of Yore. It’s 1371, Christmas is coming, and the Thorpe family will soon be home to celebrate. Find out how the festive season was celebrated in the Middle Ages and help the cook prepare food for the Christmas feast and make a medieval Christmas decoration to take away. No need to book, just drop-in. St Ives On 6 December St Ives Corn Exchange will host a fabulous Christmas Fair from 10am to 2pm. There’ll be plenty of stalls perfect for picking up gifts and stocking fillers such as crafts, jewellery and beauty products and a crafts table for children. The same day will be the last chance to order Christmas goodies at the Farmers Market on the Sheep Market. The last market of the year will take place 20 December.
Ely The historic city of Ely embraces a traditional Christmas; shoppers, festive markets, a huge tree and carols at the cathedral. This month Ely Cathedral will be getting into the festive spirit with a programme of Christmas events. On 5 December the Ely Cathedral Choir and special guest soprano, Laura Wright will be performing well known Christmas pieces and the audience are encouraged to join in the music which is interspersed with seasonal readings and poems read by local celebrities and personalities. Tickets are priced from £10. A magical evening of traditional carols and seasonal music performed by Ely Cathedral Choir will be held 22 December at 7.30pm. ‘Hark! The Hearld’ will be a magical and festive evening enhanced by the enormous 30ft Christmas tree. Tickets are priced from £10. For last minute festive treats or gifts head to the Ely Christmas Market on 23 December, 8.30am to 3.30pm. Combining the best
AREA FOCUS
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of all of Ely’s markets, visitors will be able to browse a great range of stalls offering gifts, crafts, seasonal tasters and food, accompanied by seasonal music and entertainment. Cambridge In the lead up to Christmas, Cambridge is a shoppers paradise. Home to household names such as John Lewis, designer labels such a Hugo Boss and LK Bennett, one off independent stores and boutiques such as Della Kaur, which is a great for oneoff pieces of jewellery, Modish perfect for finding must-have footwear and The Cambridge Toy Shop, you’ll find a present for everyone. On Saturday 6 December, 10.30am to 4.30pm, the popular Mill Road Winter Fair returns. A whole day dedicated to festive fun, visitors can browse the craft stalls, taste local produce, enjoy live entertainment and a carnival parade. Local charity Christmas Past, Present and Future (Cambridge PPF) will be hosting festivities for both adults and children. From a performance of ghost stories at Leper Chapel, 12 to 14 December and an adult-only workshop Winter Tree Identification on 13 December to Christmas crafts for children on 20 December and Christmas carols on 21 December, there’s plenty to be enjoyed.
or traditional family-fun head to the Cambridge Arts Theatre for its rendition of pantomime classic, Aladdin, taking place 4 December to 11 January. Cambridge’s favourite funnyman, Matt Crosby, makes a triumphant return to the Arts Theatre for his tenth consecutive pantomime, keeping audiences rolling in the aisles as Widow Twankey. Matt is “thrilled to be back” and said: “I love being part of the Arts Theatre family and couldn’t imagine being anywhere else at this time of year.” Over the past 10 years Matt has made the move from the foolish characters, like Buttons or Silly Billy to playing the Dame (now for the third year) meaning his character is constantly developing. He told us: “It’s part of the joy of live performance. Panto characters are all so different and you build up a great rapport with the audiences. Whether you’re in a frock or not. “This year there are a lot of new faces – new writer, new director, some new cast members and I’m really looking forward to working with them all. But it will be lovely to see all the familiar faces as well; the theatre technical team and dancers from last year. Some of the Panto Babes (the children’s ensemble) have been with us for three years now. It’s great to work with such incredible young talent and think, ‘these could be the stars of the future’.” Matt will perform alongside Lowri Walton and Sam Hoye as her sons, the brave hero, Aladdin and loveable idiot, Wishee Washee. Also returning this year are Coronation Street bad-boy Stephen Beckett as the evil Abanazar and Richard Earl as the Emperor of Peking. eastlife.co.uk | 107
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Festive travel made easier
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No need to shop online this Christmas! The busway is the easy route into Cambridge this Christmas, so you can make your shopping trips part of the festive fun!
And don’t forget, the busway also runs to Peterborough, Mondays to Saturdays, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.
buses run 7 days a week
Visit the busway website for times and ticket information.
www.thebusway.info TBW Xmas 2013168x240_eastllife.indd 1
08/11/2013 14:50:28
To have a wedding day unlike any other
East Mersea Hall is the place to visit
East Mersea Hall is steeped in Elizabethan elegance and history with stunning mature gardens and woodland offset against the breathtaking lake. It is fully licensed for all types of Civil Ceremonies, alternatively there is the Church of St Edmunds which adjoins the grounds of the Hall and is accessed via private pathways. The picturesque gardens and lake makes East Mersea Hall the perfect wedding reception venue.
East Mersea Hall, Church Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, Essex CO5 8TJ Contact: Sarah Baldwin Phone: (01206) 383499 Mobile: (07842) 195221
Email: eastmerseahall@aol.co.uk www.eastmerseahall.co.uk
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ESSEX
What’s on in
Essex
THEATRE & SHOWS
EDITOR’S CHOICE
29 Nov-10 Jan Sleeping Beauty Experience a death-defying expedition from the castle to forest with Tom Clutterbuck and the gang – all wrapped up with a lot of panto fun and frolics. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 3 Dec-4 Jan Peter Pan Peter Pan is an action-packed production featuring magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, an abundance of comedy and even characters flying above the stage. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 3-6 Dec The Adventures of Nursery Rhyme Land Come and join Bumble and Oliver as, carrying their picnic, they journey through Nursery Rhyme Land – and boo the baddies as they find they’re not so clever as they think they are. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 4-6 Dec Lee Mack Lee Mack is going back on the road with his first live tour in over 4 years. Expect his trademark brand of high energy banter, well-crafted gags and sharp one-liners in one of the most hotly anticipated shows of the year. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southendon-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 5 Dec-11 Jan Cinderella Panto time is here again, and in Stoneybroke Hall the wicked Baroness Evilla is forcing poor Cinderella to live an awful life as cleaner, cook, maid and all-round slave. When the Prince of Colchester Castle proclaims his plan to pick a princess at a posho party, Cinders’ ugly step-sisters set out to take his hand in marriage by force if necessary. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 7-Dec Winter Wonderland Christmas Show This show will take you on a magical journey to help you celebrate the festive season with an array of your favourite Christmas songs which are full of harmonies along with spectacular dance routines and witty script to bring you lots of Christmas cheer, using beautiful costumes and festive props this show is a fantastic treat for the
A Christmas Shopping and Family Fun Day at Blake House Craft Centre will be held on Saturday 29 November, 10am - 7.30pm. he wide variety shops will be inviting you to share their finest selection of Christmas ideas and gifts. Some shops will be holding special promotions, so don’t miss out. This family friendly event includes outdoor rides and a bouncy slide, face painting and of course, a Santa’s grotto. If you’re hungry, visit the hog roast or barbecue and enjoy a glass of mulled wine. To finish the festivities, there will be a firework finale, join in on a Christmas shopping experience not to be missed. Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Near Braintree, Essex, CM77 6RA. Tel: 01376 344123 www.blakehousecraftcentre. co.uk
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whole family. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 8 Dec-3 Jan Danny the Champion of the World Meet Danny and his Dad, living together in an old caravan, running a small garage and filling station where they are blissfully happy. But will their happiness be spoilt by either Mr Hazell the local rich landowner who wants to see them evicted from their home, or the Council Inspector who claims that their caravan is uninhabitable? Brentwood Theatre, Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305 9-20 Dec Blackadder’s Christmas Carol A festive frolic through the past and into the future with Ebenezer Blackadder, the kindest and most generous man in Olde London Towne. Well,
until he meets the Ghost of Christmas Past and who accidentally shows him the errors of his ways turning him into a cruel and witty miser. Old Court Theatre, 233 Springfield Road, Chelmsford, CM2 6JT. 01245 606505 10-Dec By Our Selves Toby Jones, Iain Sinclair and Andrew Kötting (dressed as a Straw Bear), made a five-day walk from Epping Forest to Helpston in Northamptonshire, following in the footsteps of the poet John Clare. The walk was documented using pin-hole photography and video and has now been edited to form the backdrop for a series of live performances. Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street, Colchester, CO1 1NF. 01206 500900 10-Dec Cash on Delivery True to the style of this father, Michael Cooney won’t disappoint audiences with this breakneck-paced farce which is guaranteed to have you rolling in the aisles. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 12-Dec Russel Kane: Christmas Hamper Guffaw your guts out as Russell introduces a stocking full of the hottest up and coming stand ups on the circuit, each hand selected from Kane’s Christmas workshop. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 12 Dec-4 Jan Cinderella Featuring great comedy, music and dance, Cinderella will be a visually stunning show with astounding effects, ingenious sets and luscious costumes. Harlow Playhouse,Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 13 Dec-11 Jan Peter Pan David Hasselhoff, aka The Hoff, best known for his iconic roles as Michael Knight in Knight Rider and Mitch Buchanan in Baywatch joins the cast for a fun-filled pantomime. He is joined by the nation’s favourite pantomime Dame, Christopher Biggins, who will make his Southend pantomime debut this Christmas in the role of Mrs Smee. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southendon-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 13 Dec-3 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk Join Coronation Street’s Charlie Con-
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Discover the destination for very special gifts this Christmas ...
70+ ARTISANS & SPECIALIST RETAILERS TEAROOM
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OPEN EVERY DAY 10-5
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High Street, Dedham, Essex, CO7 6AD
ESSEX dou for some fee, fi, fo, fun for all the family this Christmas. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633 14-Dec Santa’s Little Helper Albert Tuttle is nearly 7 years old, - far too old to believe in Santa. But, Albert is in for a big surprise. Ages 3 to 7. Braintree Arts Centre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556354 16-24 Dec The Night Before Christmas Experience all the wonder and excitement of this magical festive production. On Christmas Eve little Emily stares out of the window, hugs her teddy and waits excitedly for the morning, while in the corner a little mouse called Eddie can’t understand why only humans are allowed to get presents. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 17-20 Dec The Clacton Christmas Variety Show Book early for the best seats to see this top quality festive family show, bursting with a leading cast of entertainers from stage, radio and television. They are joined by glamorous dancers, and the finest of musicians to create a show for all the family that is full of comedy, song, dance and fun. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-onSea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 23-31 Dec Silly Boys presents The Elves and the Shoemaker This is a hilarious, wacky and heartwarming take on some of the world’s favourite fairytales. Reimagined using puppetry, live music and a giant dose of silliness. The perfect Christmas treat for all the family. Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street, Colchester, CO1 1NF. 01206 500900
MUSIC
5-Dec The Bootleg Sixties There’ll be some new songs and new images, but it’ll be the same brilliant evening’s entertainment. If you haven’t seen them before come and see what all the fuss is about. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 5-Dec Rock’n’Roll Christmas Marc Robinson and the Counterfeit Crickets bring to you in this festive season a show full of Christmas cheer. Braintree Arts Centre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556354 6-Dec Classics By Candlelight A selection of the finest classics performed in an evocative candle-lit style setting. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135
7-Dec Maddy Prior and the Carnival Band Celebrate Christmas with an entertaining varity of festive fare from renowned folk singer Maddy Prior. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 10-Dec Lunchtime Concert A toe tapping interlude to lunchtimes at the Cramphorn Theatre, where music is high on the menu. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 14-Dec D’Ukes ‘D’Ukes’ are quickly becoming one of the country’s top ukulele bands and whatever your musical taste - expect the unexpected. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 14-Dec Trextasy - Trex Tribute Show The ultimate tribute to Beautiful Boogie Boy Marc Bolan. Supported by Rod Stewart Tribute Show with Paul Metcalfe as Rod Stewart. Empire Theatre Butler Road, Halstead, CO9 1LL. 07778 025490 21-Dec Glenn Miller Orchestra Christmas Gala The Glenn Miller Orchestra, directed by Ray McVay, returns to the Queen’s with all the Miller favourites as well as Yuletide classics like Jingle Bells, Winter Wonderland and White Christmas. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 21-Dec A Christmas Carol Colchester Arts Centre Director Anthony Roberts’ traditional rendition of the Dickens classic. Musical accompaniment by Jamie Cunliffe. Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street Colchester, CO1 1NF. 01206 500900 27-Dec Goldmaster Allstars The ‘Goldmaster Allstars’ are a vibrant and dynamic 11-piece band performing laid-back rock steady, heavy roots reggae and ska instrumentals. The band’s sound borrows heavily from the Jamaican reggae scene although they rarely perform covers. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 28-Dec The Rollin Stoned Get stoned on two hours of nostalgia as the Rollin Stoned play the best of 1964-1969. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS
1-13 Dec FootballStadium-21st Century Cathedrals Photographs by David Shields David Shields’ latest project saw him travelling Europe documenting these sporting places of worship from the
towering tiers of Camp Nou in Barcelona to the more intimate surroundings of his own sporting cathedral, Roots Hall. Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria Avenue, Southend on Sea, SS2 6EX. 01702 212511 1-19 Dec Georgian Style Last chance to see this temporary display of Georgian costume and art at Hollytrees Museum. Hollytrees Museum, Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1UG. 01206 282940 1-23 Dec PRESENT ARTS During the Christmas period, the exhibition PRESENT ARTS maintains the The Gallery’s high standard, but the emphasis is on works of art which are affordable. The artists who have studios at the Mill are represented along with regular exhibitors of ceramics, glass, jewellery, paintings, sculpture and prints. Parndon Mill, Harlow. 01279 426042 6-7 Dec Children’s Magic of Christmas A fun Christmas workshop where children can make cards, angels and decorate biscuits. They can also write a letter and give it to Santa. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Rettendon Common, Chelmsford, CM3 8ET. 020 31765830
SPECIAL EVENTS 6-14 Dec Father Christmas Trail Follow the magical trail through the woods to visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Gather craft items along the way to make a festive picture. Gift, craft activity, drink and a biscuit all included in the price. £6.50 per child. Hatfield Forest, Takeley, Bishops Stortford, CM22 6NE. 01279 870678 6-Dec Vintage and Handmade Fair The final one of the year, ‘Vintage and Handmade Fair’ in Leigh-on-Sea at the local Community Centre. Exciting and eclectic mix of vintage clothing, jewellery, homewares, vintage inspired fashion and more. Leigh-on-sea Community Centre, Elm Road, Leigh, SS9 1SP. 7-Dec Brentwood Festive Gift Show The Festive Gift & Food Show is a fabulous Christmas Shopping like no other - set in the warm and indoor hall the event boasts hundreds of local and National shopping stands. Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN. 01702 549623 12-Dec Cheese & Wine Evening Join local company ‘We Like Wine’ for an informal talk and wine tastings. You can also sample a range of East Anglian cheese and enjoy 20% off purchases in the Shop. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Rettendon Common, CM3 8ET. 020 31765830
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Book Promo 240x168mm_Layout 1 14/11/2014 14:57 Page 1
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AREA FOCUS
CHRISTMAS IN
CHELMSFORD
H
ome to two shopping centres, bars and restaurants, theatres and historic attractions, it’s no surprise that during the festive season Chelmsford is buzzing with Christmas cheer
Christmas events Chelmsford is the perfect place for picking up all your Christmas gifts with high street names located inside warm and festively decorated shopping centres and a popular retail market, which has over 50 stalls and kiosks, all under cover. Its bars and restaurants offer something for everyone. You’ll find the usual chains scattered through the city centre as well as independent cafes, bistros and pubs, whatever you’re in the mood for whether it be a coffee to warm up or something mulled. This month Christmas is in full swing at Hylands House and Estate. The historic venue will be playing host to a variety of festive events suitable for all ages. Children will adore a fun-filled performance of Cinderella including pantomime favourites such as Buttons, the Ugly Sisters
and the Fairy Godmother, taking place at the Grand Pavilion on Sunday 28 December at 4pm. For creative types, Hylands House will be offering a programme of winter workshops, which will include the opportunity to create your own fused glass snowflakes, Christmas cards, gift tags, wrapping paper or door wreath. The popular Christmas Fair returns 6 to 7 December with over 160 stalls selling crafts, decorations and food, drop-in sessions at the Santa Grotto and festive carriage rides around the park. There’s also the chance to party the night away with the first ever Hylands Christmas Party Night. On 12 December from 7pm party-goers can enjoy a festive three-course meal, live musical entertainment and DJ.
Theatre and arts This month Chelmsford’s theatres are bursting with festive entertainment. From 3 December to 4 January, Peter Pan will be flying onto the stage in the classic pantomime at the Civic Theatre. Swashbuckling fun for all the family, Peter Pan is an actionpacked production featuring magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, an abundance of comedy and even characters flying above the stage. Enjoy festive fun as Blackadder ruins a popular Dickensian classic, with its performance of ‘Blackadder’s Christmas Carol’ taking place at the Old Court Theatre from 9 to 20 December. For those that want to join in the Christmas action, the Farleigh Hospice Santa Fun Run will kick off 11am on 7 December and will cover Central Park, Admirals Park, Tower Gardens and West Park, while on 11 December you and your family are invited to join in the Christmas spirit and walk a festive five and a half miles around Chelmsford. The health walk will begin at Lord Ashcroft Building of Anglia Ruskin University at 6.30pm. eastlife.co.uk | 115
BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS
What’s on in
Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE & SHOWS
28 Nov-2 Jan Aladdin The colourful family pantomime will star multi-talented Shaun Williamson as Abanazaar – the man determined to spoil all our hero’s plans. Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 29 Nov-24 Dec Santa Claus and the Christmas Adventure This magical adventure filled with songs, nursery rhymes and stories promises to be the Christmas treat you won’t want to miss. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 4 Dec-11 Apr Aladdin Trouble Once again the Market Theatre take a traditional story and distort it almost beyond recognition - packing it with corny jokes, raunchy plots and blatant sexual innuendo. This year they re-work (or ruin) the pantomime classic Aladdin. Market Theatre, Sun Street, Hitchin, SG5 1AE. 01462 433553 5-27 Dec Sleeping Beauty With live musicians onstage, stunning sets and costumes, plenty of audience participation, and song, dance and slapstick performed straight from the heart by a talented company of firstrate actors. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 5 Dec-11 Jan Peter Pan Leading an all-star cast as Smee, Captain Hook’s hapless first mate, in the tale of Peter Pan, this year’s pantomime will be a magical delight for families of all ages. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 5 Dec-4 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk Once again, there will be a top-quality West End cast, stunning sets, comedy, audience participation and breathtaking special effects. The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 6 Dec-1 Jan Cinderella and the Glass Slipper Experience a magical journey to the
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Brother Grimm. A happy outcome can only be achieved with the help of the kids in the audience. Market Theatre, Sun Street, Hitchin, SG5 1AE. 01462 433553 11-13 Dec Cleo’s Christmas Show Songs, jokes, surprises and guests! Plus highlights from 40 Years of Christmas at The Stables. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800
The Hatfield Christmas Banquet 18 December you are looking for someIthisfthing special for a night out Christmas the renowned
Hatfield Elizabethan banquet nights are a perfect evening to enjoy offering a sumptuous four-course dinner, excellent entertainment all set within the wonderful surroundings of the Old Palace. Tickets are £60 per person to include glass of mulled wine on arrival, 4-course banquet with half bottle of wine, Elizabethan entertainment over dinner followed by DJ. Tel: 01707 262 055 www.hatfield-house.co.uk
heart of mystical Austria and to the sparkling city of Vienna for the most fabulous fairy-tale panto of them all. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 6-Dec Comedy Club Another anarchic evening of great comedy hosted by Paul B Edwards and featuring some of the hottest stand-ups around. Letchworth Arts Centre, The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3EW. 01462 670788 6 Dec-3 Jan Hansel & Gretel Two children lost in the woods; a trail of breadcrumbs and a bewitching house made of sweets. This year the Market Theatre stages their own version of this magical fairytale from the
11-20 Dec Peter Pan A colouful pantomime based on magic shores where children are at play forever. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, SG4 9YA. 01462 455166 12 Dec-4 Jan Cinderella This year’s sparkling pantomime Cinderella is to star the stunning Suzanne Shaw as Fairy Godmother, and returning due to popular demand having won the hearts of the Vale two years ago, Russell Grant as Baron Hardup. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 12-20 Dec Calamity Jon When the world famous gunslinger Hank ‘Mow-’em-down’ Hoedown is kidnapped by injuns, his new assistant, Jonathon decides to take his place on his next assignment in Dodgey City. It’s not long after he arrives, that Jonathan realises that he may have taken on more than he bargained for. Tads Theatre, Conger Lane, Dunstable, LU5 6BT. 07952 633234 12 Dec-4 Jan Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood The legendary Australian Soap actor Alan Fletcher, who plays Karl Kennedy in Neighbours, will headline as the Sheriff of Nottingham in this year’s Christmas pantomime. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 13-Dec Dick Whittington & his Magical Cat The regions former favourite baddie Phil Dale dispenses with the black and dons a dress as Sarah the Cook to assist our Hero Dick Whittington on his
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HITCHIN CHRISTMAS MARKETS Saturday 6th December Young Enterprise Fair, Market Place, 9am-3pm Budding entrepreneurs from schools across Hertfordshire present their business products and ideas in this challenging competition. Sunday 7th December An Indie Christmas, Market Place, 10am-3pm Hitchin’s Independent Stores take to the Market Place to showcase their wares for the festive season. Sunday 14th December Hitchin Markets Winter Gala Day Market Place and High Street, from 9am-5pm Stalls throughout the town, street entertainers, music on stage finishing with carols around the Christmas tree at 4pm led by Churches Together in Hitchin. Sunday 20th December Christmas Local Produce and Craft Market, down by the riverside facebook.com/hitchinbid
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BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS quest to defeat RatPutin and rid London of his rat army. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishops Stortford CM23 3JG. 01279 651746 15 Dec-3 Jan Sleeping Beauty In far away land, a beautiful Princess is born and the entire Kingdom comes to celebrate her christening. Except for the nasty fair, Carabosse, who is bitter about being left off the invite list. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117 16-Dec Alice in Wonderland Christopher Wheeldon’s full-length ballet based on Lewis Carroll’s book is an exuberant piece of storytelling featuring an instantly recognisable cast of characters. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 19-Dec Santa in Love A magical fun-filled Christmas show with sing along songs and lots of interaction followed by a meet and greet with Santa that includes free presents for the children and photo opportunities. Letchworth Arts Centre, The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3EW. 01462 670788 19-Dec Bah, Humbug! An evening of festive anecdotes, tales and readings with Keith Baldwin. Letchworth Arts Centre, The Arcade Letchworth, Garden City, SG6 3EW. 01462 670788 16-20 Dec The Little Red Hen This ingenious adaptation of the nursery school favourite features a host of animal puppets, sing-along songs and madcap comic routines. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 22-Dec Dickens’ A Christmas Carol – performed by Gerald Dickens In an extraordinary theatrical tour de force Gerald has made audiences all over the world laugh, cry, cheer and stamp as they become completely involved in the much loved tale of Ebenezer Scrooge. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 27-Dec Sleeping Booty An adult only version of the classic pantomime. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117 27 Dec-4 Jan Aladdin Boo and hiss the nasty Wizard Abanazar as he seeks the power to rule the world. Cheer on our heros, as Aladdin goes in search of true live and help us to ensure goo triumphs over evil. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Herts, HP23 5QY. 07543 560478
29 Dec-2 Jan Sleeping Beauty ‘Sleeping Beauty’ is given the Bedford Pantomime Company treatment with a live band, fantastic lighting, fabulous costumes and great comedy. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SJ. 01234 269519
MUSIC
2-Dec Buddy Holly & the Cricketers Holly’s hits, other contemporary classics and some Christmas crackers are all wrapped up in a fast, furious and funny feast of entertainment to make the perfect gift for all the family. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800
3-Dec Christmas with the Rat Pack Take a trip back in time to the glamorous, glitzy nights of Las Vegas in the late 1950s and early 60s. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 4-Dec Toploader ‘Toploader’ have sold over two million albums and have a string of top 20 chart hits both home and abroad. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 7-Dec The Joy of Christmas The Joy of Christmas is a wonderful opportunity for all the family to experience the real meaning of Christmas and sing well loved carols accompanied by the stirring sounds of brass. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SJ. 01234 269519 9-Dec Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’s Christmas Cracker. This yuletide concert favourite is perfect for families and audience members of all ages. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road , Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 12-Dec 25th Christmas Cracker The evening will include traditional community carols, concert renditions of Christmas music both old and new, and the ever popular festive singalong. An evening guaranteed to put you into the Christmas spirit. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SJ. 01234 269519 13-Dec Whole Lotta Led The longest running, full-time professional tribute to Led Zeppelin and the new five-piece line-up recreates the sounds of Led Zeppelin’s original studio albums to an astonishing level of accuracy. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Herts, HP23 5QY. 27-Dec That’ll Be the Day Christmas Show Get ready for a party as the UK’s most successful Rock ‘N’ Roll variety
show, the legendary T’hat’ll Be The Day’, returns with its brand new 2014 Christmas Show. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road , Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 31-Dec New Year’s Eve Extravaganza Bring in the New Year with all the fun of Big Ben at Midnight, the sing-a-long, the classic gold hits from the 1950s, 60s and 70s and the feel good humour with ‘That’ll be the Day’ and Trevor and Gary’s disco. Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS
1-31 Dec Paper Panda & Friends An exhibition of paper-cutting by the hugely talented Paper Panda, accompanied by invited artists and makers including Amanda Clark, Hannah Willow, Kim Anderson and more, plus lots of wonderful Xmas present ideas. Obsidian Art, Old Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville, HP22 5XJ. 01296 612150 1-24 Dec First Exhibition Within the Exhibition you will find several artists’ insipring pictures of varying sizes, mediums (oils/pastels/water colours etc) and styles. Beautiful photography (framed), ceramics, pottery, glassware, varying gifts and a small selection of cards. Wood End Gallery, Wood End Lane, Pertenhall, MK44 2AS. 01480 861915 1 Dec-29 Mar Mermaids, Roses, Camels & Cows: Wallpaper by Edward Bawden Spanning a 40-year period, ‘Mermaids, Roses, Camels & Cows’ is a celebration of the pattern-making genius of Edward Bawden. The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD. 01234 718618
SPECIAL EVENTS 6-7 Dec Christmas Tree Festival A two day winter wonderland returns with live music, outdoor rides, gifts, crafts for kids’, Santa, lots of Christmas Trees for sale and more. The Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, MK43 0PR. 7-Dec Christmas Fair Fill yourself with festive cheer and your bags with festive goodies at this annual Christmas fair. Ashridge Visitor Centre, Herts, HP4 1LX. 01442 851227 13-Dec French Market Visitors will be able to purchase gifts and food items from around Europe. High Street, Hoddenson, EN8 8TL. 01992 785655 14-Dec Knebworth Christmas Singer Kim Wilde will be providing special festive entertainment. Knebworth House, SG1 2AX, 01438 812661
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Eastlife xmas advert V2_Layout 1 10/11/2014 16:21 Page 1
AREA FOCUS
BEAUTIFUL
BEDFORD
A
n ice rink, breakfast with Santa and over 60 Christmas trees – this year Bedford has a stylish offering of festive fun Since the Christmas lights twinkled into action at the end of last month, Bedford has embraced the festive spirit. Throughout December there is a huge calendar of family events to be enjoyed. Festive fun For a fun family afternoon or perhaps a romantic day out, take to the ice at The Bedford Swan Hotel. From now until 11 January, the hotel will be offering the chance to swirl around on the ice with sessions from just £5 per person. You can even combine ice-skating with a festive lunch at its River Room Restaurant for just £30 per person. From 3 to 7 December St Paul’s Church, in St Paul’s Square will host a dazzling display of over 60 Christmas trees at its annual Christmas Tree Festival. Trees
will be decorated to the theme ‘Friendship through Sport’, including two Trees of Remembrance. The event is a great way to get into the festive spirit and admission costs just £2.50. If you haven’t already got all your gifts or simply fancy getting into the festive spirit, visit the Bedford Christmas Fair, 12 to 14 December. The fair will be taking over the pedestrian area of the town centre with traditional rides, attractions, street entertainment, music and stalls. Say hello to Santa Santa will be busy in Bedford this month with meet and greets at the Harpur Centre from 6 to 24 December. There’ll also be the opportunity to have Sunday lunch with Santa on 7 and 14 December at the Park Inn, which includes a two-course meal and gift.
Christmas Concerts Nothing quite signifies Christmas like the sound of carols and on 18 December St Peter’s Church will be holding a candlelit carol service for those wanting to embrace the Christmas spirit. Between the Christmas and New Year slump why not entertain the family with pantomime fun. Bedford Corn Exchange will be giving the pantomime treatment to ‘Sleeping Beauty’ from 29 December to 2 January. There’ll be music, slapstick and mayhem on stage and plenty of opportunities for the audience to join in the fun. eastlife.co.uk | 121
We Visit the world’s oldest Mechanised PaPer Mill
BENSLOW MUSIC WINTERFEST 2014 tuesday 2 december
the london klezmer quartet
experience a scintillating evening of this infectious jewish fold-art form in the hands of some of its most illustrious performers
friday 5 december
bingham quartet and nigel clayton programme includes haydn, dutilleux and brahms
wednesday 10 december
Exciting... Involving... Rewarding... Inspiring... and loads of fun!
tedesca quartet
Birthplace of paper’s Industrial Revolution, Frogmore Paper Mill is still a working paper mill using a 100 year old machine to make paper for specialist customers. We are open for drop-in visits Thursday, Friday and Sunday from 11.00am to 4.00pm. Guided Mill tours, including the opportunity to make your own paper, start at 11.15 am, 1.00 pm and 2.45 pm. We have a gift shop and cafe serving light refreshments on site. In summer, we offer boat trips too.
programme includes haydn, schumann and mozart
friday 12 december
fidelio trio
programme includes beethoven, michael nymen and camille saint-saËNS
a Frogmore Mill Visitor Voucher makes a Great christmas Gift
BOX OFFICE 01462 459446
Family of 5 £25.00 Family of 4 £20.00 Family of 3 £15.00 Couple £13.50 / Cons £12.00
Tickets also available at Hitchin Town Centre Initiative, Hitchin
ALL TICKETS £12
call us on 01442 234600 to order a voucher pack or visit www.thepapertrail.org.uk
(Free entry for under 25’s and carers accompanying a disabled ticket holder)
CONCERTS START AT 8PM
W: www.benslowmusic.org E: info@benslowmusic.org Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin, Herts, SG4 9RB Benslow Music Trust is a company limited by Guarantee. Registered in England no 408404. Reg Charity no 313663
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06/11/2014 14:05:22
Frogmore Paper Mill
Fourdrinier Way, Hemel Hempstead HP3 9RY 01442 234600 www.thepapertrail.org.uk
FROGMORE PAPER MILL
Birthplace of Paper’s Industrial Revolution
Charity No 1079008
Whoever you are... Wherever you are going...
work college leisure A WEEKLY EXPLORER ticket could get you there.
A week’s unlimited travel on the bus network for just
£30
*
*£20 ticket available for students with a Hertfordshire SaverCard. Ticket valid on most Hertfordshire bus services. Daily Explorer tickets also available. Can be purchased on the bus. For information please visit www.intalink.org.uk/explorer.
www.intalink.org.uk
FESTIVE
HERTFORDSHIRE
H
ome to some of the best Christmas tree farms and festive barns across the region, plenty of party venues and shopping hotspots, a visit to Hertfordshire is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit
Watford wonderland Located where north meets south, Watford offers a fun and fabulous Christmas. While the adults busily pick up the last of their Christmas gifts, intu Watford will be entertaining children with its Santa’s Grotto until 24 December. Every visit provides a gift wrapped present and children can have fun trying out the Naughty-or-Nice-o-Meter and look out for Rudolf while exploring Santa’s new magical reindeer-maze. If you have little-ones that simply love Christmas, pop along to Place to Eat from 17 to 19 December where they will be able to join Santa for afternoon tea and crafts. Places are limited so booking is essential. Tickets cost £10 per child, which includes a gift. Adult tickets are priced £5 including a hot beverage and 124| eastlife.co.uk
cake. Tickets are available from customer services. For an afternoon of guaranteed family fun head to Cassiobury Park for Christmas celebrations. On 7 December, 11am to 3pm, the park will host lots of family fun, including creating your own decorations and Christmas stalls. Santa will be making a grand entrance as he arrives on a Husky dog sledge at 1pm. There will be Christmas carols from 2pm to 3pm and children can enjoy horse and carriage sleigh rides from 1pm to 4pm. When the cold becomes too much to bear, warm up with the BBQ and mulled wine available. If you know a huge Harry Potter fan, why not make their Christmas with an early trip to the Warner Brother Studios in Leavesden. The most magical snowfall
of the season has returned to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter this year as the breathtaking Hogwarts castle model has been covered in a blanket of snow. Until Sunday 1 February, the Studio Tour will offer visitors the ultimate chance to see the castle’s festive makeover – as well as the iconic Great Hall decorated for Christmas. For the first time at the attraction, the film series’ Special Effects Department has installed coloured lights and a special vapour that flickers and dances to create ‘fire’ in the Great Hall and Gryffindor common room fireplaces. Meanwhile, real flames lick the plum puddings on display in the Great Hall. The Great Hall has been decorated with the original props seen during the Christmas feast in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Eight Christmas trees line the iconic set and two long dining tables have been dressed as they were for seasonal feasts with prop versions of turkeys, hams, fruit, vegetables and snow cakes.
AREA FOCUS
Tickets must be pre-booked at www.wbstudiotour.co.uk and all extra activities are included in the ticket price. Theatre and music Fasten your seat belts for a magical ride of mystery, sparkling romance and dazzling adventure with this year’s lavish production of Aladdin at Watermeet, Rickmansworth from 5 to 31 December. Get the family together for what promises to be an entertaining pantomime of slapstick and song. If you prefer something a little more subdued, Benslow Music will be hosting ‘WinterFest’, a series of four concerts taking place 2, 5, 10 and 12 December. Located in Hitchin, this Christmas Benslow Music are also offering a festive menu. Visitors can enjoy the ambience of the Victorian house set in four acres of stunning gardens. On arrival, you will be greeted with mulled wine and mince pies in front of our roaring log fire, followed by a three-course meal in the dining room with live chamber music playing to enhance the experience.
Christmas shopping We all know that Hertfordshire has its fair share of shopping centres but during the festive season the county features a number of amazing Christmas barns. Explore the seasonal splendour of Buckland Barn located in Buntingford until 23 December or visit The Magic of Christmas in Stevenage. The barns are almost a Santa grotto for adults, having been transformed into a winter wonderland that offer an unbelievable collection of decorations, trees and lights – everything you need for creating a magical Christmas in your own home. For classic Christmas charm, the St Albans German-inspired Christmas Market held until 21 December is a must visit. Possibly one of the prettiest festive markets in the UK with its 11th Century Cathedral grounds and Vintry Garden location, it’s no surprise that last year’s market attracted over 45,000 visitors. Due to its first year success the market plans to build on its popularity and has doubled in size going from 42 stallholders up to 80.
The food and drink offering will be second to none with a huge selection of fare from Germanstyle Bratwurst and Black Forest ham to pulled-pork sandwiches, brownies and luxurious hot chocolate. Mulled wine and locally brewed beer will be served from a special outdoor bar and from carts dotted about the site. There will be regular music and entertainment too. If you haven’t finished your Christmas shopping yet, make a trip to the historic market town of Hertford on 7 December where retailers will be handing out samples, offering promotions and providing in-store entertainment. On Friday 12 December residents and visitors can join the Mayor for carols at the Castle in Hertford. The event is free to attend and mince pies and mulled wine will be served after the performance. For more exclusive content and events in Hertfordshire download the Eastlife app now or visit www.eastlife.co.uk
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Bishop’s Stortford Tourist Information Centre Regional and community information, gifts and souvenirs and ideas to get you out and about in Herts and Essex. Please visit us for your Christmas cards, town calendars and other seasonal gifts. We also sell London Theatre Tokens. 2 Market Square, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3UU Tel: 01279 715001 www.bishopsstortfordtc.gov.uk email: tic@bishopsstortford.org
Hertford’s leading visual arts venue
Christmas Shopping at Courtyard Arts Visit our Shop and Gallery for unique and beautiful gifts
Port Vale, Hertford 01992 509 596
www.courtyardarts.org.uk Courtyard Arts & Community Centre is a registered charity number 1044469
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Celebrate Christmas at Woburn Come and join us for a festive lunch, candlelit dinner or one of our magical shared Christmas party nights throughout December. Or why not hold your own exclusive party in one of the famous Woburn Estate venues. Relax afterwards in our luxurious four star hotel, The Woburn Hotel.
For more details about Christmas at The Woburn Estate call 01525 292 172 or email sales@woburn.co.uk www.thewoburnhotel.co.uk/special-occasions/christmas
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20/11/2014 18:59
AREA FOCUS
WONDERFUL
WOBURN
H
ome to Woburn Abbey, a Safari Park, Go Ape and family resort Centre Parcs it’s clear to see why Woburn has established itself as a major tourist attraction of the East
will receive a warm and friendly welcome. Recently under new ownership, the restaurant has a scrumptious selection of traditional festive favourites to help you celebrate the joyous winter season ahead.
Christmas events This Christmas visitors will find plenty to see and do on their trip. Located on the Woburn Estate visitors can explore 22 rooms within Woburn Abbey and over 28 acres of award-winning Humphry Repton inspired gardens, all set within 3,000 acres of deer park.
The warm cosy interior makes for a fabulous venue to enjoy the festive season with friends. Music lovers will adore the festive opera night taking place 13 December, where you’ll be able to dine on two or three courses from a delicious Christmas inspired menu and listen to opera and carols performed by singers from the English National Opera.
For a festive evening of exclusive musical entertainment and fine dining, visit The Sculpture Gallery at the Woburn Estate on 14 December as it welcomes the return of ‘A Touch of West End.’ Bringing the magic of the West End to Woburn the evening promises glittering entertainment and songs from some of the world’s most successful musicals with a festive twist. The event is priced at £85 per person including a five-course gourmet dinner.
Keep the kids entertained this month with a festive visit to Woburn Safari Park. Santa will be visiting the park every weekend from Sunday 15 November, meeting boys and girls in his Grotto every weekend between midday and 3.30pm until the 21 December. The Safari Park elves have been very busy creating a winter wonderland grotto for Santa. Tickets are available on the day of your visit in Junglies Gift Shop. Young safari adventurers visiting Santa and his elves will receive a very special Christmas present and discount vouchers to use in Junglies Gift Shop. Festive feast Woburn is spoilt with fabulous pubs and restaurants. For a delicious and unashamedly indulgent festive meal make a trip to Woburn Brasserie where you
Celebrate Christmas and enjoy a traditional festive lunch on 21 December at The Sculpture Gallery, set in the grounds of Woburn Abbey with its own private rose garden and terrace. After lunch, children can enjoy a visit from Santa and if all the children behave well, Santa will stay for Story Time and hand out gifts. The two-course luncheon is priced £21.95 per person with children under 12 priced at £14.95. eastlife.co.uk | 129
130 | eastlife.co.uk
SUFFOLK
What’s on in
Suffolk
THEATRE & SHOWS
EDITOR’S CHOICE
27 Nov-31 Jan Beauty and the Beast Join Fairy Fortunate and Company as they bring you Beauty and the Beast – transformed into one of the New Wolsey Theatre’s irresistible rock ‘n’ roll pantomimes. The New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900 28 Nov-11 Jan Cinderella The Theatre Royal will once again be serving up a sparkling festive treat filled with catchy songs, silly jokes, and a sprinkling of magic. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 3 Dec-3 Jan Dogs Don’t Do Ballet The sublime and the ridiculous combine in this hilarious story of a small dog with a big personality and even bigger dreams, brought to life by Little Angel Theatre using beautiful puppets, well-loved ballet music and dazzling comedy for ages 2 to 6 yrs. The New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900 4-6 Dec A Kick in the Baubles It’s another peaceful Christmas in the Bailey household but chestnuts aren’t roasting on an open fire, and although a Silent Night would be welcome, all is not calm and all is most certainly not bright! Frank doesn’t wish it could be Christmas every day – in fact, he’s dreading the arrival of his snobbish inlaws. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 6-Dec Enchanting Christmas This charming Christmas medley bursting with enchanting tales, song and dance will certainly get you in the festive spirit. The New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900 7-Dec Winter Wonderland with the Tigerlilys Let The Tigerlilys add that magic touch to your festive season with Winter Wonderland, their all singing and dancing Christmas show. A fast paced colourful performance containing all those Christmas classics. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726
family. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 12-21 Dec Christmas Spectacular! in Neverland A stunning new stage set is filled with dazzling musical numbers and a cast of 100 in a 10th anniversary celebration of the festive season. Aldeburgh Music, Snape Maltings Concert Hall, Snape, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110
Ickworth family Christmas Sparkle Weekends in December 6/7 and 13/14 20/21 and Mon 22 9.30am – 4.30pm op along to Ickworth with the kids for a celebratory family Christmas making decorations, crackers and treats and sweets, sitting next to the Christmas tree with stories and gifts from Father Christmas and having fun. They’ll be choirs lifting spirits in the West Wing and you can enjoy the odd warming glass of mulled wine from the restaurant. Come along to enjoy the free spirited family Christmas, it’s a great day out. Advance booking recommended. Adult member – Free. Adult non-member £6 & Child - £8.00 Tel: 0844 2491895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ickworth/things-to-see-and-do/
P
7-Dec Christmas in Coming Carols, bells, readings, a musical melange of mirth and merriment for the festive season to fill you with the Christmas spirit, not to mention the mulled wine and mince pies, all included in the price of your ticket. Quay Theatre, Quay Lane, Sudbury, CO10 2AN . 01787 374745 7-Dec A Viennese Strauss Christmas Gala Another wonderful evening of the best of music from Vienna and Christmas in music and song loved by all the
12-28 Dec Little Red Riding Hood A hilarious traditional pantomime, with all your favourites, a rollicking Dame, plenty of song and dance and plenty of “It’s behind you!”. Quay Theatre Quay Lane, Sudbury, CO10 2AN . 01787 374745 12-13 Dec Bugsy Malone A fun, splurge-packed musical based on the original smash hit. Guys and dolls are caught up in gangsters fighting for control of the town. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 12-Dec Remember When at Christmas The perfect way to start Christmas in style with this trip back down memory lane filled with all of your favourite Christmas songs and Carols and a large dose of good old fashioned festive Fun. Regal Theatre, Ipswich Street, Stowmarket, IP14 1AY. 01449 612825 14-Dec The Old Time Radio Club presents: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens A radio play dramatisation of the classic Christmas story using voice actors, live music, live sound-effects and authentic advertisements. All performed under strict “broadcast” conditions. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 16 Dec-3 Jan Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Following the enormous success of Cinderella the Marina Theatre once again presents this season’s biggest family pantomime: Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 17-21 Dec Puss in Boots A fun-filled classic family pantomime.
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SUFFOLK Regal Theatre, Ipswich Street, Stowmarket. IP14 1AY. 01449 612825 17-27 Dec The Snow Queen Gerda, an amorous Grandmother and a down-on-his-luck storyteller as they battle highway robbers, an assortment of winter-themed henchmen and the frozen-hearted Snow Queen herself in a bid to rescue Kai. The Seagull,19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 19-27 Dec Robinson Crusoe Welcome aboard as The Panto Company returns to the Fisher Theatre for a 3rd year with the funniest retelling of Defoe’s classic book, Robinson Crusoe, in this priceless performance, packed with music, excitement and laughter. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 20 Dec-3 Jan Cinderella Welcome to the world of fairytales, where poor Cinderella is doomed to live un-happily ever after with her two horrible Ugly Sisters. Cinderella manages with the help of her ‘silly’ friend Buttons and a ‘magical’ Fairy Godmother to make all her dreams come true. Ipswich Regent, 3 St Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 20-Dec Jack and the Beanstalk Fairy Fortuna and Daisy the Cow help provide all the fun, laughter and quality entertainment now expected from a Haverhill Panto. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 21-Dec The Nutcracker On Christmas Eve, Marie’s godfather, Drosselmeyer, gives her a strange toy: a wooden nutcracker carved in the shape of a little man. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 22-Dec Father Christmas Needs a Wee ‘Father Christmas needs a Wee’ is a fabulously funny and brilliantly bouncy musical adaptation of Nicholas Allan’s much loved book. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 MUSIC 6-Dec Christmas in Blue Christmas in Blue is an exciting new collection of jazz-inspired carol arrangements by the award-winning British composer and pianist Will Todd. The Royal Hospital School, Holbrook, Ipswich, IP9 2RX. 01473 326200 9-Dec May Your Days Be Merry and Bright A programme of seasonal favourites, including arrangements of traditional carols and songs. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505
12-Dec Barbershop Christmas Bonanza Together with Norwich Harmony, their sister chorus, they bring amazing, unaccompanied singing to another level. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 16-Dec Carols By Candlelight The Locrian Ensemble present a truly magical Christmas concert of carols performed in lavish period costume. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 17-Dec Jazz at the Movies Features jazzy festive favourites made famous by Hollywood hipsters. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 18-Dec Christmas By Candle Light Start the festive season in style with a candlelit Christmas concert in the glorious setting of the barn at historic Haughley Park. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 18-Dec Christmas with The Carpenters Beautiful music, fond memories, and nostalgic moments – it really is all about ‘Yesterday Once More’, and with ‘The Carpenters at Christmas’, that’s exactly what you get - all the hits and much more.Ipswich Cameo Hotel, London Road, Ipswich, IP8 3JD. 01473 209988 20-Dec Showaddywaddy A retro-inspired rock n roll show. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 21-Dec Royal Opera House: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland At a garden party on a sunny afternoon, Alice is surprised to see her parents’ friend Lewis Carroll transform into a white rabbit. When she follows him down a rabbit hole things get curiouser and curiouser. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 23-Dec An Albion Christmas An Albion Christmas takes you on a musical guided tour through Britain’s Christmas customs and was described by The Guardian as “the perfect antidote to the corporate Christmas”. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS
15 Nov-10 Jan Smiths Row at Christmas: Craft Work ‘Smiths Row at Christmas’ returns once more with a fresh new collection of work from makers who have been carefully selected over the last 12 months. Smiths Row, The Market Cross, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1BT. 01284 762081
1 Dec-11 Jan The Death of General Wolfe ‘The Death of General Wolfe’ by Benjamin West, depicts Major-General James Wolfe’s death in 1759 at the moment when Britain announced victory against the French in Quebec. The painting was so popular that William Woollett produced an engraving of it. Loyd Grossman, owner of plate, has generously allowed Gainsborough’s House to print a limited edition of 50 prints in aid of Gainsborough’s House. Gainsborough’s House, 46 Gainsborough Street, Sudbury, CO10 2EU. 01787 372958 6-Dec Messiah St Edmundsbury Cathedral Choir, The St Edmundsbury Singers and The Suffolk Handel Players Conducted by James Thomas. St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1LS. 01284 748720 16 Nov-22 Feb Death of a Hero This marks the 50th anniversary of the death of Sir Winston Churchill. This exhibition at Chartwell gives you the chance to see never-before-seen objects from the collection, including the flag that flew over Washington the day he died. The Rotunda, Horringer, Bury St Edmunds, IP29 5QE. 01284 735270
SPECIAL EVENTS 28 Nov-11 Jan A Vintage Christmas Join the Museum of East Anglian Life as it embraces a vintage Christmas. The halls will be decked and spirits will be bright as it welcomes the yuletide season with a host of tinselled Christmas trees and displays that celebrate Christmases past. Free to attend. Museum of East Anglian Life, Iliffe Way, Stowmarket, IP14 1DL. 01449 612229 7-Dec Christmas Street Market The festive Bungay Street market continues in the Fisher Theatre with Santa in his grotto. The café bar will also be open for drinks, lunches and light snacks. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 7-Dec Festive Foray Take a few hours out from the stresses of Christmas preparations and join in a walk around the reserve just before Christmas to see the wildlife that is making Lakenheath Fen its winter home. RSPB Lakenheath Fen Nature Reserve, Station Road, Brandon, IP27 9AD. 01842 863400 12-Dec Festive Tour of Otley Hall Experience a Tudor-style Christmas with a fascinating guided tour of the Hall with one of the knowledgeable tour guides, complete with Mulled wine and festive nibbles. Otley Hall, Hall Lane, Otley, IP6 9PA. 01473 890264
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COTMAN HOUSE
A UNIQUE RETIREMENT HOME IN FELIXSTOWE
A stunning purpose built building owned by an experienced family team. Specialising in permanent, respite, convalescence and post operative care. Cotman House is a stunning, beautifully designed and constructed building, nestling into the cliff overlooking the Felixstowe Seafront offering superb uninterrupted sea views. Cotman House is perfectly located within easy level walking distance of the town centre. The interior combines supreme comfort with state of the art technology and every detail has been most carefully considered. Each resident has a tastefully furnished room, en-suite wet room facilities, the latest adjustable pro-ďŹ le beds complete with custom made mattresses, satellite TV, telephone and internet connection. Contact us for a brochure or visit our website. Telephone: 01394 672084 www.cotmanhouse.co.uk Cotman House, GarďŹ eld Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 7PU a leading light in care
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AREA FOCUS
FESTIVE
IPSWICH
A
Christmas in Ipswich has something for everyone to enjoy. This month the town’s shops, bars and restaurants are alive with festive cheer Festive fun The annual Grand Christmas Tree Festival returns, 3 to 10 December at St Mary Le Tower, from 10am to 4pm. Last year saw more than 70 real and artificial trees placed by businesses, charities and individuals and this year looks set to be just as exciting. This year the festival is supporting the Ipswich Winter Night Shelter and The Alzheimer’s Society in addition to raising funds for St Mary Le Tower. Those looking to pick up a special gift or stocking filler should head to the UCS Christmas Fayre taking place 6 December at the Waterfront Building, University Campus. It will bring around 50 businesses to the waterfront for shoppers to enjoy. On 14 December, 10am to 5pm, visitors to Christchurch Mansion can explore the mansion in all its festive glory, meet Victorian characters, learn historic dances
and make simple crafts. What’s more entry is free and meeting Santa costs just £3 including a gift. Arts & crafts Christmas is a great time of year to be creative. This Christmas The Suffolk Food Hall will be holding a Christmas wreath workshop from 30 November to 30 December, 2pm to 4pm. The event will provide the opportunity to create a Scandinavian inspired wreath using seasonal materials. The Suffolk Craft Society Christmas Exhibition takes place at Gallery 2 of the Town Hall Galleries, until 24 December, 10am to 5pm. Featuring jewellery, textiles, furniture, ceramics, glass and so much more, it’s a great craft fair for your Christmas shopping. Here comes Santa Santa is in demand in Ipswich. This year children will be able to visit
Santa at a number of establishments around the town. Santa’s grotto in Buttermarket Shopping Centre will be available until 24 December, 10am to 4pm. Visits cost £4.50 per child, which includes a gift. From 6 to 7 December The Bear Garden at Tower Ramparts will welcome Santa for a meet and greet, 10am to 5pm. The event is free and there will be a colouring competition running at the store through November to Christmas for children to win some special prizes. Food and Drink Ipswich is certainly not short of a party venue or two. For a Christmas party with friends or colleagues head to Arlingtons. The brasserie will be hosting party evenings with dinner and dancing throughout the festive season. The Waterfront Bar Bistro offers a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere to meet with friends and family, while The Salthouse Harbour Hotel is perfect for visitors looking for an overnight stay in a comfy, chic and contemporary environment. eastlife.co.uk | 135
The Best Kept secrets are kept within
Martin Melville Sept 14 qtr_Layout 1 15/08/2014 10:39 Page 1
Special thanks to John Foley Images @Sept Imagine Gallery Martin Melville 14 qtr_Layout 1 15/08/2014 10:39 Page 1 If you would like to add your village to our framework, you could be live within 48 hours, villages also benefit For more information contact Paul Moreton on 01787 312817 from a complimentary back office system so Parish Councils can exchange information in real time. insidesuffolk.com A whole newshop, world ofcall marketing. To promote your independant Suffolk boutique please Paul Moreton on 01787 315055.
New Woodburner Showroom Open days New Woodburner Our new woodburner showroom, located We are hostingdays our Showroom Open in the same building as our Aga showroom official Open Days on
at Martlesham, is now near completion. Friday 5th and Saturday Our new woodburner showroom, located 10.00am We are–hosting our 6th September We have on display from OER, as our Aga instoves the same building showroom official 4.00pm and you are mostOpen Days on Aga, Stanley, Woodwarm & High isFlame at Martlesham, now near completion. welcome to attend.Friday 5th and Saturday and a rangelocated of accessories. are able 6th September Our new woodburner showroom, in theWe same building as our Aga showroom at 10.00am – display stoves from OER, to supply only or ifWe youhave wishonour 4.00pm and you are most Special open Martlesham, is now open. experienced engineers Aga, can Stanley, Woodwarm & High Flame complete offers welcome to attend. andworks. a range of accessories. Weday are able the entire installation to supply onlyWoodwarm or if you wish our We have on display stoves from OER, Aga, Stanley, & High Flame and a range of Special open engineers can complete engineers accessories. We are able toSuffOlk supply onlyWOOdburNerS orexperienced if you wish our experienced can complete the day offers the entire Unit 6, Bridge Business Parkinstallation works.
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Suffolk Woodburners are part of the long establishedwww.suffolkwoodburners.co.uk Martin Melville company 136 | eastlife.co.uk
Suffolk Woodburners are part of the long established Martin Melville company
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WINTER WONDERLAND ON THE
SUFFOLK COAST F
or the perfect wintery escape head to the stunning Suffolk Coast. At this time of year the area becomes a winter wonderland of festive activities From festive activities offering everything from shopping and entertainment to festive dining and festivals, there’s plenty to see and do. The county’s many towns and villages are graced with independent stores and boutiques where you can find everything you need without having to queue in a multi-storey car park or set foot inside a department store. Town centres will come alive with Christmas markets great for finding hand-made crafts for gifts, while the local farm shops and delis are perfect for picking up festive food and treats. You can even finish your festive day with something mulled at one of the many cosy pubs. For a little inspiration this Christmas, Eastlife explored the area to bring you the highlights...
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Aldeburgh A mix of family-friendly fun, fine dining, shopping and entertainment, Aldeburgh has it all this Christmas. Shopaholics or those that are still on the hunt for their Christmas gifts will adore the Snape Maltings. Here you’ll find an array of independent stores offering items you won’t find on the High Street. For some vintage inspiration visit the Snape Maltings Christmas Farmers Market, on 6 December or stop by on 20 December for the launch of the first ever Food and Drink Festival Christmas Market, which will bring together almost 50 food and drink stalls. Visitors will be able to sample a range of local produce and pick up treats for Christmas lunch. At The Long Shop Museum in nearby Leiston, the museum will be transformed into a shop-
per’s paradise on 6 December. Visitors can browse the many stalls, while children enjoy festive activities such as crafts, tombola, Santa’s grotto and a free cartoon show at Leiston Film Theatre to celebrate the festive season. For a festive feast or break, The White Lion Hotel has a number of packages available including a festive afternoon tea and a full board Christmas break from 24 to 27 December. At 11am, wrap yourself up warm and head to the annual Aldeburgh Boxing Day Swim. Watch as swimmers brave the North Sea to raise money for charity or in a few cases just for fun. Southwold The Christmas Light Switch On taking place on 5 December in the Market Square officially kicks starts the festive celebrations in Southwold. Father Christmas will be flicking the all-important switch and there will be a host of festive fun and entertainment.
AREA FOCUS
With a huge range of specialist shops Southwold is fantastic for Christmas shopping and has a wonderfully festive atmosphere in the lead up to the big day. You’ll be able to find plenty of special gifts, crafts, antiques, fine foods and inspirational pieces for the home that you might not necessarily find elsewhere. After a day of shopping one of the cosy Adnams pubs and great cafes is the perfect place to take shelter from the cold and indulge in a festive treat. As part of the Southwold Concert Series, a Christmas Concert will be held at St Edmunds Church on 6 December at 7.30pm. This concert will be performed by the choral ensemble Seraphim and accompanied by the Spring Baroque Ensemble. The programme will include Vivaldi, Corelli and a collection of a cappella Christmas songs. Tickets are priced £12.
Woodbridge Woodbridge offers a magical seasonal setting. With its picturesque riverside walks, cosy pubs, restaurants and independent stores, the town has a fabulous festive atmosphere. Christmas begins with the return of the much loved Mammoth Christmas Street Fair on Sunday 7 December, 10am to 5pm. Regarded as one of the most exciting events in the Woodbridge calendar more than 130 stalls take over the Thoroughfare and Cumberland Street to give shoppers a real Christmas treat. The smell of festive food and the sound of Christmas carols fill the air as shoppers browse a huge range of trinkets, treats and treasures. Farmers Markets will take place on 13 and 20 December, while on 14 December The Taste of The Continent Food Market comes to Market Hill from 10am to 3pm. Chef and restaurateur Ugur Vata of the Galley Restaurant is behind the second mar-
ket and aims to bring together the best and tastiest food and drink from around Europe. After the success of last year’s Christmas Storytelling at The Crown, professional storyteller Justine de Mierre will be returning this year with more wintery and festive tales to entertain and delight the children of Woodbridge on Friday 5, 12 and 19 December, 4.14pm to 5.15pm. Just as last year, there will be Christmas cards from various characters from ‘Storyland’, and the children will get to pick from them which story they would like to hear next. The storytelling will take place in front of the fireplace in the main bar with a story carpet and comfy cushions surrounding it so everyone can relax and join in. On 22 December the Woodbridge Rotary Club will be holding their annual Carol Service on the Market Hill. Father Christmas plans to come along again and hand out sweets to the children on the Shire Hall Steps.
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AREA FOCUS
Framlingham Framlingham is one of the handful of towns where Christmas is still magical, with many chances for the community to get together and celebrate, and there is no bigger event than The Fabulous Framlingham Christmas Festival. This year the festival takes place 12 December with late night shopping from 6pm to 9pm. The town’s independent boutiques will be selling gifts, stocking fillers and homemade produce, while stalls selling decorations will add to the buzzing Christmas atmosphere. Santa will arrive by horse and cart and children can visit him in his grotto as well as enjoying a ride in their own horse and carriage. There will be plenty of entertainment for adults too. Taking to the stage is Stephen Bayfield and Peter Hollway performing a ‘Christmas Cracker’, The Rabble Chorus, Cheeky The Chimp performing magic tricks and mingling with the crowds, Pop Chorus, The Ipswich Piping Society and Inquisiquest Puppet Theatre performing in the Unitarian Church. When hunger strikes enjoy a range of tasty treats from the local cafes and delis, Hall Farm Hog Roast or stop by The Crown to warm up with a mulled wine or cider. Felixstowe With twinkling lights, a magical atmosphere and a visit from Santa, Felixstowe is a wonderful place to visit at Christmas. This month the town has a jampacked festive calendar. Children will love the Santa and Rudolph Visits taking place 1 to 22 December. The trailer will make its usual tour of Felixstowe’s streets and homes every weekday evening between 6pm and 8.30pm. Santa and Rudolph will be pausing for a break in Hamilton Road on 13 December, 10am to 4pm. The Christmas Tree Festival will host a wonderful display of decorated Christmas trees from various organisations and charities at the Salvation Army Hall between 2 and 6 December. The grand opening by the Mayor will include a short carol service. On Christmas Day hundreds of people will be taking the brave plunge into the cold North Sea as part of the St Elizabeth Hospice: Christmas Day Dip. Last year over 200 people charged into the sea raising around £40,000 for local hospice care. If you’re not brave enough to join in, pop along and watch from the shore alongside spectators, family and friends.
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LOOK 10 YEARS YOUNGER
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11 Nov East Life 2014 QP_Layout 1 10/11/2014 16:52 Page 1
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Christmas Decorations
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ADVERTORIAL
W&M Smith For all your Christmas Needs In recent weeks I have heard the words ‘where has this year gone’. It does not seem five minutes ago we were filling the shelves at The Pightle Barn with Easter chicks, bunnies and all the Spring merchandise. But the clocks have gone back and the nights are drawing in. The pumpkins are on the compost heap and bonfires and fireworks are being lit. This is the reason that Pightle Barn is bursting at the seams with lots of goodies for Christmas. From the most basic of things like cards, wrapping paper, and tags to something just that bit different to decorate with or a gift for the person who has everything, just come along and see what W & M Smith has in stock. This year we have bought from new suppliers to have a much more varied range, leaning towards the rustic look with wood featuring throughout the range of decorations. We also have the good old favourites, berries, silk holly and poinsettias, robins in all shapes and sizes, artificial and dried fruits, garlands from the cheap and cheerful to the luxurious with some having wreaths to match. The Christmas cake is being fed on brandy so come and see what we can offer you in cake decorations both in plastic, claydough and also edible. We have a huge range!! We stock cookie cutters in many different designs and if you want to package the final product up, the cellophane sweetie bags, both in plain and patterned are also available. Hamper baskets and trays, wood wool and shredded paper and tissue along with rolls of cellophane to finish off the packaging is something else squeezed in to the Barn. At the same time you can peruse all the tableware we have for the festive season, napkins, table cloths and cups as well as crackers again in a varied price range. The list goes on and on ..... Come and visit W & M Smith soon, before it is too late as stock is moving fast.
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