Eastlife April 2014 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

www.eastlife.co.uk

Living life in the East

£1.95 WHERE SOLD

APRIL 2014

EASTER

DAYS OUT

Super ideas for all the family Cambridge education special Weddings: Engagement rings Inspiring interiors Arts Special

Plus:

Lowestoft, Hadleigh, Ely, Newmarket, Chelmsford, Thetford, Great Yarmouth and more ….. April Cover.indd 1

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Summer collection

10% off

& free delivery* Quote EAS41 at website checkout when ordering or bring this voucher into store Visit one of our stores: Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stortford, Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge, Colchester, Harpenden and Norwich *10% offer not valid on sale items, The offer is not valid on sale items, multibuys, gift vouchers or Micro Scooters. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. This voucher is valid until 31.12.2014. Free delivery to UK and Ireland. See website for full details.

Ways to keep in touch:

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“Style doesn’t have to come at a price as we can prove at the dressing Room”

Quality pre-owned ladies fashion and designer labels at an affordable price. Visit us at 8 Sun Lane, Newmarket to see our wide selection of clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories.

Sizes 8 - 20 stocked We are open… Tuesday - Friday, 10am - 5pm and Saturday, 9.30am - 4.30pm

8 Sun Lane, Newmarket, CB8 8EW Telephone: 01638 667778 www.thedressingroomnewmarket.co.uk

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15075 East Life 240x168 Advert_Layout 1 10/12/2013 17:15 Page 1

> EXACTLY WHAT YOU BUDGETED FOR.

> THINKING ABOUT A NEW MERCEDES-BENZ? HAVE A BUDGET IN MIND? Then just go to our yourmercedes microsite. Simply select the monthly figure that suits your budget and choose the Mercedes-Benz for you. You’ll also find our very latest offers on selected models too.

Just go to www.yourmercedes.co.uk to ﬁnd the right Mercedes-Benz, at the right price.

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Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new E-Class range: urban 20.3(13.9)-68.9(4.1), extra urban 36.2(7.8)-68.9(4.1), combined 28.3(10.0)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions 234-109 g/km. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz new E 220 CDI AMG Sport Saloon with manual transmission at £39,950.00 on-the-road including optional 18" AMG alloy wheels at £365.00, 360 camera at £715.00, Driving Assistance Package at £2,345.00 and LED Intelligent Light System at £1,280.00. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of going to press (12/13).

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CONTENTS APRIL 2014

the editor

“Dear Reader: It’s no surprise that for thousands of our readers the Spring weather and the Easter holidays mean that they cannot wait to get out and explore the region and all that the six counties have to offer. So with that in mind, this issue is brimming with fantastic ideas for days out for all the family, whether they are into culture, shopping or even golf.

We also find the perfect bridal wedding rings, look at spring interior trends, discover Cambridgeshire’s top schools and reveal a host of ideas to brighten up your house.

WEDDINGS

Don’t forget the most important thing: the wedding ring!

And if you enjoy reading our features you will be pleased to hear we have plenty more online at www.eastlife.co.uk, including a service that allows you to upload your own events entirely for free. Enjoy the site, enjoy this issue, and more importantly, love where you live!”

EASTER DAYS OUT East Anglia is full of delightful events for all the family

GOLF

FEATURES

A great selection of the best courses in the region

13 19 33 40 43 59 67 75 80 83

AROUND THE REGION Local news EASTER DAYS OUT Fun things to do for all the family EASTER BAKE Delicious recipes to bake with your kids WEDDINGS Pick the perfect ring EDUCATION The best schools in Cambridgeshire HOME Choose the conservatory of your dreams HEALTH Fighting fit for Spring ARTS The latest art exhibits across the region 10 NORFOLK ARTEFACTS A diverse history NORFOLK AND NORWICH FESTIVAL Arts events galore! eastlife.co.uk|7

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You are invited to the...

2014 Greyhound Extravaganza Greyhound Show & All Breeds Fun Dog Show Family Dog Show with classes for all breeds including lurchers and cross breeds and a ring for novelty and fun classes, all in a beautiful setting.

Sunday 25 May 2014 Animal Health Trust, Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU

Trade stands ยบ Refreshments ยบ Car Parking Picnic Area ยบ Cafe ยบ Gift Shop Entry fee ยฃ2.00 per class Registration from 9:00 am Judging commences at 10:30 am in four rings Trophies for all classes and rosettes for all entries Meet greyhounds looking for loving homes

For the full show schedule and more information on trade stands and class entries, contact the show organisers on 0845 602 2658 or 07787 701695 or visit:

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk/Greyhound-Extravaganza

Charity Numbers: 269668 & SC044047

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CONTENTS APRIL 2014

129

WHAT’S ON IN THE EAST

Publisher Sean Thompson 01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com Publishing Consultant Paul Gibson 01954 268129 paul@eastmag.com Editor Chris Johnson chris@eastmag.com Design/Production Craig Lewis 01954 268142 craig@eastmag.com Editorial Assistants Simona Arcaro, Mahvish Malik, Constance Mance Sales Manager (South Norfolk, Suffolk & Essex) Like Eastlife? Darren Marshall 07826 628680 Like our Facebook darren@eastmag.com page 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 EDITORIAL editorial@eastmag.com HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY.

www.facebook.com/ eastlifemag

@eastmagazines

www.eastlife.co.uk

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 Headley Brothers.

BEDS/HERTS/BUCKS Find out what’s on

HERTFORD AND WARE Two places full of charm

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Explore the region

ELY Discover a fascinating history

106 ESSEX Essential regional events 111 CHELMSFORD A lively town with plenty to offer 115 SUFFOLK Why we love this county 119 HADLEIGH History and hospitality 121 LOWESTOFT A beautiful coast and so much to see 127 NEWMARKET The heart of British horseracing 135 NORFOLK Key April events 141 THETFORD A town that breathes history 143

GREAT YARMOUTH The perfect seaside town

145 WELLS & WALSINGHAM Two key villages to visit 146 STAYING IN Stay in with amazing books and DVDs

Coming up in next month’s Eastlife.... All you need to know about the Summer ‘s top festivals. PLUS The next step to planning your perfect wedding - Choosing the perfect hair + grooming, and the latest floral trends for your home. MORE: Top Norfolk schools, Peterborough, Hunstanton, Bury St Edmunds, Norfolk, Saffron Walden, Cromer and Aylsham, and many more features to keep you in the loop.

Get the most out of where you live at www.eastlife.co.uk eastlife.co.uk|9

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Cambridge, St Neots, Bedford, Milton Keynes & Oxford Cambridge St Neots

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SAV E £ 5 On any Animal Encounter. Simply quote code ‘EAST0114’ when placing your booking.

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

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Around the Region

alling all foodies! If you’re looking to sample some of the best food and drink that East Anglia has to offer, you couldn’t do much better than popping along to the Foodshow at Wherstead Park on Saturday April 26. Now in its third year, each show has attracted over 900 visitors. The criteria is simple: exhibitors should have something delicious on offer and they must come from East Anglia – because the show is a celebration of local talent. Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire are full of talented foodie folk. Featuring established names like Bhaji Man, Fairfields Farm Crisps and Essex Pork as well as promising new talent in the area, the show covers the whole food and drink spectrum – there’s even an observation hive if you’ve ever wondered how your honey is made! Open from 10am to 3pm, the Ipswich-based venue will have over 40 local suppliers offering the opportunity to sample and buy their products. Tickets on the door are just £1.50 per adult and free for children. The show will be the fourth at Wherstead Park, and is always a popular event. Commercial Manager Lesley Frost says: “The Foodshow works because we really go all out to get a good mix of food and drink producers who are passionate about what they do. “The show is also indoors – always a bonus with British weather!” Saturday 26 April, 10am to 3pm. £1.50 entry for adults, free for children. Wherstead Park, Ipswich, IP9 2BJ, 01473786565.

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REGION

oxholes Farm and Shop is well worth a visit. 15 years on from diversification away from a dairy to a beef farm, and 6 years since opening their purpose built Farm Shop, The Smith Family warmly welcome you to their new Tea Shop. Catherine, (now the 4th generation of her family to farm in Hertfordshire), explains “Our initial plan of opening the Farm Shop was always to serve as a comprehensive Butchery, to produce all our own beef and saddleback pork to sell directly to the public. But immediately upon opening, our customers began requesting a Tea Shop so as to enjoy our farm and its surroundings to the fullest- we have always run an ‘Open Farm’, encouraging families to visit our animals and their young, in order to understand and educate about livestock and farming. Bringing people more awareness of their food” Sticking to their shop’s ethos of always supplying produce from Foxholes Farm, from other local farms and producers and ‘Buying British’, the tea shop comprises of a selection of 10 different teas and coffee, various locally homemade cakes, cream and high teas, as well as light lunches and hot daily specials, using their own meats and local produce throughout. With their new children’s play area and pets corner opening in time for Easter 2014- pop along and enjoy this peaceful little farmyard gem. Children are warmly welcome and parking is free! London Road, Hertford SG13 7NT, 01992 552900. www.foxholesfarm.com.

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Around the Region

s we move ever closer to the 100 year anniversary of the outbreak of WWI, it is moving to consider that only a century ago, families all over Europe were only a few short months away from the outbreak of a major conflict that spread around the world and changed lives forever. The Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds’ programme of events will take a look at this important centenary from every angle, with shows that explore the world of the trenches, the tunes that kept the troops (and those at home) going, and even productions of well known pieces that have been re-set in the WWI era, and imagine how characters would cope in such a time... The centre-piece of this retrospective is the stage adaptation of the well-known and much-loved novel Birdsong. Adapted in association with the author, Sebastian Faulkes, this production is heart-stopping in its beauty and poignancy and will leave audiences moved to silence. A mesmerising story of love and courage, both before and during the Great War, the depiction of Stephen Wraysford’s emotional and physical journeys in France is simply stunning. Meanwhile, Metta Theatre will be transporting Lewis Carroll’s iconic heroine Alice to 1915 – whilst she takes refuge from bombs in the rabbit hole of her dusty cellar, surrounded by cobweb-clad relics of her childhood, her son Alan takes a similar escapist voyage of imagination in the trenches... soon they are both surrounded by a wonderland of talking rabbits, mad hatters and savage queens. Also transplanting a classic tale to this turbulent era, are Opera UK, whose production of Cosi Fan Tutti sees this well-known tale of misdemeanour and mistrust set in early 1914 and sung in English. With Mozart’s sublime score plummeting and soaring, this production will explore the nature of love, honesty and integrity. By contrast, Opera UK’s Keep the Home Fires Burning will also explore the First World War through music, as they provide an evocative afternoon of such well-known hits as Pack up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit Bag, It’s a long Way to Tipperary and The Merry Widow, along with many of Ivor Novello’s hits! by Anna Scrafield Birdsong – 22 – 26 April Cosi Fan Tutti – 9 – 10 May Keep the Home Fires Burning - 10 May Alice – 19 – 20 May www.theatreroyal.org. Box Office 01284 769505.

Around the

REGION

arking the centenary of The Great War, Woburn Abbey’s new exhibition Valiant Hearts will demonstrate the roles played by the 11th Duke and Duchess, the Abbey and the people from the Estate and surrounding villages during the conflict. Valiant Hearts: World War I – Woburn and its Stories will present a number of unique narratives, giving visitors an insight into what life was like for people connected to the Woburn Estate during World War I. Within the exhibition, visitors will be able to explore a recreation of the training garrison established and paid for by the 11th Duke, and read some of the poignant letters from commanding officers that meant His Grace was able to follow the progress of each of these local soldiers throughout the war. The exhibition will also explain how the 11th Duchess converted parts of Woburn Abbey in order to create one of the most advanced hospitals of the time. In 2014, as you explore Woburn Abbey, Gardens and grounds, visitors will be able to examine a range of artefacts, photographs and archive materials which together tell the incredible and moving stories of men and women from the local area during WWI. The exhibition opens on the 11 April 2014 and runs until the 28 September 2014. Find out more atwww.woburnabbey.co.uk/ValiantHearts.

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Around the Region

ake your child’s Easter holidays magical with a day out with perennial favourite Thomas the Tank Engine. Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends will be at the East Anglian Railway Museum over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend offering unlimited rides on at least four character trains. Thomas of course, Daisy, Toby and Henrietta, the Troublesome Trucks with Toad will all be there and ready for play. The miniature railway will also be running at least two trains all day (subject to weather). The Fat Controller will be welcoming you and your family plus you can join him for Storytelling time and interactive re-enactments with Thomas and other characters throughout the day. The Imagination Station offers a wide range of children‘s activities, from Circus Skills, Punch and Judy, Colouring Competition, engine outline rubbing, playtables with plasticine, temporary Thomas tattoos, reading books and much more. This is a real family day out - and noted as a hit with visitors to the museum, young and old alike. Adults £14, Children (2-15) £10. Tickets can be bought online up until the day before the event for a £1.50 discount per ticket. www. earm.co.uk. Chappel and Wakes Colne Station, Wakes Colne, Essex CO6 2DS, 01206 242524.

Around the L

REGION

Roman Invasion, photo by John Moore

overs of heritage, the city of Peterborough, or fantastic family fun shouldn’t miss a visit to Flag Fen Archaeology Park and Longthorpe Tower this April! Both sites re-open for the 2014 season on Saturday 5 April, kicking off a programme of action-packed events for everyone to enjoy. Travel back 3,500 years in time at Flag Fen Archaeology Park and discover what life was like for our prehistoric ancestors at the finest Bronze Age archaeological site in Northern Europe. Wander through a Bronze Age village, sit within the reconstructed roundhouses, meet the newborn Soay lambs, and stand where our ancestors once stood on the ritual causeway. Don’t miss a unique event at Flag Fen on 19 – 21 April: Roman Invasion! Enjoy an action-packed day out and be transported back 2,000 years in time to meet the Romans. See fights between gladiators, drill with the army, try family craft activities and dig for artefacts. Explore Longthorpe Tower, a delightful medieval tower, part of a manor house that was built around 1300. Inside you will discover a hidden gem. Kings, saints, animals, musicians and monsters jostle for space in the finest set of domestic medieval wall paintings anywhere in Western Europe. Visit Longthorpe Tower’s exhibition, which tells the story of the Tower and the remarkable family that built it, who rose from being humble peasants who worked the land to become knights who rubbed shoulders with kings. There is a very special event at Longthorpe Tower on 5-6 April. Preparing for War – The Tower and Richard III. It’s 1485 and Sir Robert Whittlebury is preparing to fight for King Richard III. Now’s your chance to meet soldiers, handle weapons, see the ‘arming of the knight’ and find out about delicious food and gruesome cures.

For further information about Longthorpe Tower, call 01733 864 663 or email longthorpe.tower@vivacity-peterborough.com. To find out more about Flag Fen, call 01733 313 414 or email flag.fen@vivacity-peterborough.com. Visit vivacity-peterborough.com .

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Easter Days Out

Easter Days Out At last it’s Springtime! It’s the season of bunnies, chicks and chocolate - and Easter, of course! East Anglia is full of seasonal delights for all of the family to enjoy. Here’s Eastlife for the grown ups... COLCHESTER ZOO – ALL ABOUT BEARS 5 – 21 April This Easter at Colchester zoo, it’s all about bears. To celebrate the opening of their amazing new enclosure, ‘Bears of the Rising Sun’, the zoo is hosting a range of bear-themed events. Take a stroll through the Bear Forest, try your hand at tracking a bear, and make bear themed crafts in the Discovery Centre. There will also be the chance to meet the zoo’s mascot, Sonny Bear, and to enjoy some story telling with ‘Bear Tales’ in the Kalahari Centre. The sight of Sun Bears Jo-Jo and Srey Ya settling into their new home is not to be missed. Colchester Zoo, Maldon Road, Stanway, Colchester, Essex, CO3 0SL. 01206331292, enquiries@colchesterzoo.org. DINOSAUR ADVENTURE PARK – EGGCELLENT EASTER 5 – 22 April This thrilling experience up close and personal with dinosaurs gets an Easter makeover. There will be an abundance of special Easter activities and special events going on throughout the school holidays. Have a cracking time at the park this Easter, with some egg-citing activities and egg-stra special events! Weston Park, Lenwade, Norfolk, NR9 5JW, 01603 876310. www.dinosauradventure.co.uk.

LANDGUARD FORT – EASTER TRAIL 5 – 21 April There’s plenty of Easter fun to be had at Landguard Fort – join in and hunt out the clues! Landguard Peninsula, View Point Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk, IP11 3TW. 01394675900. operations@landguard.com. PARADISE WILDLIFE PARK - EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA 5 – 21 April Over the Easter holidays, the Paradise Wildlife Park will be home to a wide range of fun Easter activities. Head to the Safari stage for the best of them, including the Easter Bunny stage show and a chance to meet the Bunny himself! There’s also an Easter trail all around the zoo, and a chance to win a chocolate egg. There’s also the opportunity to find out more about rabbits and stroke a real bunny. White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, EN10 7QA. 01992470490. RHS GARDEN HYDE HALL – VINTAGE FLORAL EASTER 5 April This is a sophisticated event for grown ups – the perfect antidote to the Easter holidays madness and children hopped up on sugar and a certain ubiquitous bunny.

Take a break and create a rustic springtime Easter arrangement, perfect for adorning your Easter dinner table. Creephedge Lane, Rettendon, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 8ET. 01245402006. ROYAL GUNPOWDER MILLS – EGGSPLOSIVE EASTER 5 – 21 April There’s fun for all the family in abundance at the Royal Gunpowder Mills during the Easter Holidays. Professor Nitrate is set to unveil even more ‘Secret science’ experiments in his extended Mad Lab; new additions include his ‘Anti-Grav Machine’ and Ejector Seat Testing gizmo. Outside there are even more fun ways to fire rockets and shoot things across the Test Range. Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1JY. 01992707370. www.royalgunpowdermills.com. RHS GARDEN HYDE HALL – EASTER FAMILY GARDEN TRAIL 5 – 21 April There are plenty of clues dotted along the garden trail in honour of Easter. Find enough of them while you’re following it and work out the puzzle, and you’ll earn yourself a tasty (and chocolatey) treat!

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A whole day of non-stop family fun & adventure in the forest!

T: 0845 094 9741 www.goape.co.uk

T: 01842 810090 www.bikeartthetford.co.uk

Directions: High Lodge is situated in Thetford Forest on the B1107. Sat Nav: IP27 0AF. Open every day (excluding Christmas Day). Discovery Pass available. All cars and minibuses must pay a site entry fee. Additional charges for Go Ape & bike hire. For more info call 01842 815434. FULL PAGE.indd 1

T: 01842 813949 www.highlodge-catering.co.uk

forestry.gov.uk/highlodge 21/03/2014 14:08

East Life/1152 HL/Jan2014©Crown copyright

• Play areas for all ages • Walking and cycling trails • Go Ape & Tree Top Junior • Bike shop & hire from BikeArt • Forest Segway • Cafe

Easter Days Out Norwich Theatre Royal has an offering that will delight kids of all ages. Scooby-Doo and the gang are back by popular demand and with even more Spooky Mystery and fun - this time in the Pyramids. ScoobyDoo, Shaggy, Fred, Velma and Daphne arrive in Egypt where they must solve the mystery of Pharaoh Hatchepsout’s Pyramid. With hilarious physical comedy, popular tunes and special effects, the whole family will enjoy this new episode live on stage. Box office: 01603630000. Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. HIGH WOODS COUNTRY PARK – EASTER EGG ROLLING EGG-STRAVAGANZA 15 Aprilf Creephedge Lane, Rettendon, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 8ET. 01245 402006. BEWILDERWOOD - BOUNCING BOGGLE BUNNY EGG HUNT 7 – 22 April This Easter holidays BeWILDerwood is holding a Boggle bunny bouncing bonanza! Follow a bunny themed trail through the park to make your own Boggle bunny outfit in the Big Hat. Then, don your Easter ears, bonnet and bow tie, stick on a tail and get your face decorated with a pink or black nose and whiskers. Once you’ve created your Easter card, hop off to the bunny tunnel entrance and bounce your way around to find the Big Egg. There is no better Easter fun for the kids! Horning Road, Hoveton, Norfolk, NR12 8JW. 01692633033. explore@BeWILDerwood.co. uk. RSPB MINSMERE NATURE RESERVE – FAMILY NATURE WALKS 9 & 16 April The Easter holidays are the perfect time to ‘spring’ into action and enjoy a family nature walk. RSPB Minsmere’s resident nature enthusiast will bring the reserve alive with a 45 minute adventure looking at the signs of Spring. Discover more about the bursting buds, who made those footprints and who’s been nibbling the leaves and nuts. Quizzes and Easter crafts will also take place in the Discovery Centre. Westleton, Saxmundham, Suffolk, IP17 3BY. 01728648780.

essential. Hawkswood Road, Downham,Billericay,Essex, CM11 1WT. 01268711001. hanningfield@essexwt.org.uk. SUFFOLK FOOD HALL LTD – EASTER BREAD MAKING SPECIAL WITH SUSAN HUDSON 13 April Sometimes it seems like Easter is all about chocolate, but this workshop will get you back in touch with the beauty of bread. With Easter around the corner the focus will be on preparing for the big day with hot cross buns, ones that are far superior to anything you might buy all year around in the shops! Other festive breads will accompany this classic, such as Greek Easter bread “Tsoureki”, 9 grain bread, and brie en brioche. Festive breads make perfect presents, and are very popular, so book early to avoid disappointment. Wherstead, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2AB. 01473786618. www.suffolkfoodhall.co.uk. NORWICH THEATRE ROYAL - SCOOBY DOO AND THE MYSTERY OF THE PYRAMID 14 - 16 APRIL The Easter holidays are the perfect time to take a family trip to the theatre, and the

A fun Easter egg hunt and Easter themed games await you at High Woods Country Park. Create your own egg-straordinary Easter egg and obstacle course. Race your egg down the hill - whose will go furthest? Make sure you book in advance. Hollytrees Museum, Castle Park, Colchester CO1 1UG. 01206 282920. VisitColchester@ Hollytrees Museum. LANDGUARD NATURE RESERVE – EASTER BUNNY HUNT 16 April Join this fun children’s tour of the Nature Reserve, complete with fun and seasonally appropriate facts on rabbits and a quiz too. Watch out for the giant Landguard bunny with his goodies! No need to book – just meet outside the main entrance to Landguard Fort. Landguard Peninsula, View Point Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk, IP11 3TW. 01394675283. www.discoverlandguard.org.uk. CARLTON MARSHES – EASTER EGG HUNT 17 April Carlton Marshes aren’t only full of fascinating wildlife and beautiful country scenery. This Easter, they’re full of eggs! Find them on the Easter egg hunt, and

HANNINGFIELD RESERVOIR VISITOR CENTRE – EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA 13 & 21 April Get in touch with nature as you follow the trail around the reserve; take part in pond dipping and minibeast hunting. Upon returning to the centre, get creative and make an Easter themed craft, as well as collecting a fantastic prize. Booking is

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Visit

St Albans Museums

VerulAMiuM MuseuM

MuseuM of st AlbAns

everyday life in roman britain

the town that Moved

9a Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 3RR 01727 819340

St Michaels, St Albans AL3 4SW 01727 751810

www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk eastlife.co.uk|23

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BOOK YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT CALL 01992 460895 ext4

isit

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v yeassic.co.uk www.r

saturday 19th sunday 20th FOR MORE INFORMATION OR CALL 01992 460895 EXT4 monday 21st april 2014 Session Times 1st session: 09:30 - 12:00 2nd session: 12:00 - 14:30 3rd session: 14:30- 17:00

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Rye-assic easter fun! friday 18th, saturday 19th, sunday 20th, monday 21st aPRIL

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indoor soft play Rye-assic Raceway

easter egg hunt Bouncy castle fun!

outdoor play area aqua blast boat racing Trampolines crazy golf

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9.30am to 5.00pm

Dino maze

come and join us at the rye-assic easter party!

RYE-ASSIC ADVENTURE PARK, RYE HOUSE KART RACEWAY, RYE ROAD, HODDESDON, HERTS, EN11 OEH

call 01992 460895 ext 4 or visit www.ryeassic.co.uk

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Easter Days Out receive an Easter egg. The Bridge, Wroxham, Norwich, Norfolk, NR12 8RX. 01603 782207. info@broads. co.uk. BURE VALLEY RAILWAY - EASTER EGGSPRESS 18 - 21 April Travel towards some amazing Easter fun on the Bure Valley Railway. Norfolk’s longest Narrow Gauge Steam Railway runs an intensive service from both Aylsham and Wroxham, and there is a free Easter egg for every child accompanied by a fare-paying adult! Under 5’s travel free. Bure Valley Railway, Aylsham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW. 01263733858. www.bvrw.co.uk. enjoy fun seasonal games and crafts. A perfect event for all the family to enjoy.

WHITLINGHAM COUNTRY PARK – EPIC EASTER EGG ADVENTURE

Burnt Hill Lane, Carlton Colville, Lowestoft, NR33 8HU. 01502 564250.

17 April

HATFIELD FOREST – EASTER EGG HUNT 17 – 21 April This is a laid back self-guided trail in a beautiful forest setting. Follow the trail at your leisure, and don’t forget to claim your delicious prize at the end! Hatfield Forest Estate Office, Takeley, Essex, CM22 6NE. 01279870678. MUMFORD THEATRE – PINOCCHIO 17 April Easter is a time for children, and the Mumford Theatre is staging a show that children everywhere are bound to love. Follow Pinocchio and his grasshopper friend as they set out on an adventure to find some fun! Hiccup Theatre join forces with acclaimed children’s writer Michael Rosen (of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt fame) to bring this classic fairytale to life with live music, puppetry, and physical storytelling. Even the grown ups will enjoy it! Mumford Theatre, Anglia Ruskin University, East Road, Cambridge CB1 1PT. 08451962320. www.anglia.ac.uk. RSPB STRUMPSHAW FEN NATURE RESERVE – EASTER EGG-SPLORERS 17 April Can you find all of the clues and complete the wild Easter quest through the woods? Spot lots of interesting spring wildlife along the way and take part in fun Easter themed activities at the drop-in event. There’s even a small prize for everyone. Low Road, Strumpshaw, Norwich, Norfolk, NR13 4HS. 01603715191.

There’s yummy Easter eggs in it for you if you follow the tricky treasure trail around Whitlingham. You can also craft a nest basket to take your prize home in. Remember to bring outdoor clothes and footwear! Whitlingham Lane, Trowse, Norwich, Norfolk, NR14 8TR. 01603756094. www.broads-authority.gov.uk. AUDLEY END – EASTER ADVENTURE QUEST 18 April Do you have any young adventurers in your family? Then take them to Audley End this Easter! There they can meet characters from the past and hear their intriguing stories from times gone by. Most excitingly, they can offer them the help they need in taking on a quest that involves cracking clues and exploring the hidden corners of Down House. There’s a chocolate reward for the successful explorers, too. The perfect way to get your kids enthused about history this Easter. Off London Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JF. www.english-heritage.org.uk. BROADS TOURS – EASTER SPECIAL RIVER TRIP 18 – 21 April The Broads are Britain’s magical waterland – discover them by joining Broads Tours for a special Easter river trip. Children can take part in an on board nature quiz, an Easter egg hunt, and drawing and colouring competitions that are free to enter! All trips include an entertaining commentary by the skipper – if you listen carefully, he may even give you a hand with the nature quiz! All children

MUSEUM OF THE BROADS - EASTER EGG TRAIL 18 - 20 APRIL The only waterside museum of Broadside life is always well worth a visit, and there’s no better time to enjoy it than the spring. Discover the boats of the Broads and see how people’s working lives shaped the landscape. Why not do something different this Easter? The kids can enjoy a fun trail around the Museum with an Easter egg prize. The Staithe, Stalham, Norfolk, NR12 9DA, 01692 581681, www.museumofthebroads.org.uk. SUTTON HOO – CADBURY EASTER EGG HUNT 18 – 21 April Sutton Hoo is fascinating enough to explore at any old time of year, let alone at Easter! Make the most of the historic surroundings on an ‘egg-citing’ egg hunt. When you complete the trail, you’ll get to collect your chocolate egghead! Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 3DJ. 01394389700. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sutton-hoo. BLICKLING ESTATE - CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAIL 20 & 21 APRIL Once home to the famous Boleyn family, Blickling Estate is one of Norfolk’s top attractions and is only a short drive from the county’s gorgeous sandy beaches. Immerse yourself in its historical grounds this Easter by joining the Cadbury Easter Egg Trail. Search for all of the clues and claim your delicious chocolate egghead prize! Blickling, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6NF, 01263738030, blickling@nationaltrust.org.uk.

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ALDEBURGH MUSIC

a place of energy and inspiration

18–20 April

13–29 June

EASTER WEEKEND

2014 ALDEBURGH FESTIVAL

Join us this Easter for a long weekend featuring two evenings of gorgeous Mozart orchestral works, the recreation of a 400–year–old publicity stunt and sublime Bach cantatas.

One of Europe’s leading classical music festivals, with over 50 events in the main programme and over 30 events in the alternative fringe, The Pumphouse. Plus exhibitions including the contemporary art show SNAP, films, walks and An Aldeburgh Musicircus – the largest ever gathering of musicians in Aldeburgh turns the town centre and seafront into a huge, resounding musical market-place.

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Easter Days Out FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE – SIEGE! 20 & 21 April Experience history in action as Framlingham Castle catapults visitors into the midst of a Norman siege! Discover all there is to know about a castle under attack. Kids and adults alike won’t be able to resist the past coming to life around them. Church Street, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9BP. www. english-heritage.org.uk. HEDINGHAM CASTLE – MEDIEVAL SIEGE & FAIR 20 & 21 April Swap bunnies for dragons at Hedingham Castle on Easter weekend. The return of the Medieval Siege Society promises to provide more historical fun than ever before. Get a snapshot of life in the high medieval period amongst the bustle of the camp, and enjoy archery, birds of prey, a maypole, donkey rides, the Dragons of of Wye-Ten (complete with Dragon’s Egg Hunt), puppet theatre shows, a jester and much more. There’s even a set piece battle, and there will be plenty of craft stalls and traders, with a lot of food stalls to keep your appetite satiated. The Keep will also be open so that you can explore the castle. Hedingham, Halstead, Essex, CO9 3DJ, 01787460261. www.hedinghamcastle. co.uk. BRIDGE FARM BARNS Open 7 days a week Bridge Farm Barns is a collection of unique independent retail businesses and a tea room, and is the perfect place for a day out for all of the family. The Play Barn offers free family fun (for under 7yrs) whatever the weather, 7 days a week, offering kids the chance to ride on tractors, run wild in the play corner,

navigate the bale maze, and even play giant jenga! Gifts, toys, books, home & garden wares also on site will keep everyone happy (including mum and dad), and there’s plenty of treats to sample in the restaurant. Don’t miss the chance to relaz in the Corn Craft Tea Room serving the full spectrum of homemade food from Full English Breakfast, through to delicious lunches and afternoon teas. Monks Eleigh, Suffolk IP7 7AY. 01449740456. www.bridgefarmbarns.co.uk. RYE HOUSE KARTWAY For thrillseekers young and old, Rye House Kartway provides the opportunity to experience high speed karting at its best in one of the UK’s oldest and most respected circuits in the industry. These tracks have seen Lewis Hamilton take his first driving steps, so you know that they are not for the faint hearted! They deliver all of the excitement of a world-class racing circuit. Tailor made packages are available, including children’s parties, and even stag and hen do’s for the grown ups! Rye Road, Rye House, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, UK EN11 0EH. 01992460895. www.rye-house.co.uk. VENTURA WILDLIFE EXPERIENCES Ventura Events offers a vast range of wildlife experiences guaranteed to delight young and old alike. Get up close and personal with animals you never dreamed you’d meet - there’s an extensive selection of bugs, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals to choose from. Animal Encounters can be organised both indoors and outdoors to your exact requirements. This is one unforgettable experience. PO Box 1283, Enfield, EN1 9XE, 02033718764, info@venturawildlife.co.uk.

AUDLEY END RAILWAY The Audley End Miniature Railway is a delightful 1.5 mile ride on Lord Braybrooke’s private 10 ¼” gauge railway through stunning Estate woodland. Children all enjoy looking out for the teddies that live in the woods, while the adults are reminded of a nostalgic era, especially on Saturdays and Sundays when the carriages are hauled by a steam engine. Audley End Estate Office, Bruncketts, Wendens Ambo, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JL, 01799 545134. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk. RYE ASSIC ADVENTURE PARK - EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA 18 - 21 April The Easter Egg Hunt with a difference! Don’t miss out on the great Rye-Assic Easter Egg weekend - get down with the dinos, and head to Rye-Assic Adventure Park at Rye House Kart Raceway at Hoddesdon. Spot the dinosaur eggs on display, retrieve the clues and follow the egg-citing trail to win prizes. The park has been designed for 1-9 year olds and features the prehistoric creatures from the Cretaceous Period. Search for the eggs among the full life-size Brachiosaurus, Stegosaurus and Tyrannosaurus Rex. There is so much more to explore and enjoy in the adventure playground: trampolines,a crazy maze, and a bouncy castle. There is also crazy golf, racing boats, water cannon and ‘quad-zilla’ electric quad bikes. Suitable for children aged 3 years. Rye Road, Rye House, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, EN11 0EH. 01992460895. www.rye-assicadventurepark.co.uk.

Ventura Wildlife Experiences

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W&M Smith

VISIT THE PIGHTLE BARN AT W&M SMITH

ooking for new products to entice customers out there, be you one already or one for future, is always a problem for us. But so far we are doing fairly well even if we say it ourselves. With the arrival of spring and then summer being just round the corner, we have several new products for the garden or the gardeners amongst you. A range of metal birds now grace the shelves at the Pightle Barn. We have pheasants, cockerels, geese, ducks and cranes. Also in flat sheet metal there are chickens, cockerels and little baby chicks. Just in is a range of resin animals from household pets with dogs and cats, farmyard friends like pigs, birds which include owls and doves. Not forgetting hedgehogs and dormice. Some are free standing whilst others are wall hanging. A lovely range not only to adorn your garden but a gift for that difficult person who has everything! We have also got outdoor clocks, key keeps, thermometers, bird feeders, boot scrapers etc etc. The list is endless. The range of artificial flowers is one of the largest in the area. Made from a range of materials, silk, foam, latex, parchment, hessian they can be bought by the stem and the quality is excellent. Some of them you have to touch or smell them to make sure they are not real. How much things have moved on in this area since we started up in business over 30 years ago. But not all of them are artificial, as we do have a small selection of dried grasses and preserved flowers. A fashion which is coming back.

You want a ribbon for something; the Ribbon Room is the place. Here too we have ribbon in a variety of finishes, even wired or non- wired, be it double faced satin, organza, hessian, polypropylene, gingham, tartan, polka dot, grosgrain, velvet, lace. What a decision you will have to make and we can assure you that you will be spoilt for choice. With spring in the air the wedding season looms large. Brooch bouquets are becoming very popular and so a range of brooches are now in along with various other diamante sprays, leaf sprays, and sparkly bits and pieces. We also stock diamante numbers and letters which can be used on cakes as decoration or in table centre pieces. Another room at the Pightle Barn is home for sugar craft items. Icing, marzipan, colour pastes and lustre powders, as well as flavourings. We have Sweet Lace in various colours along with the moulds in several designs. Cutters of all shapes and sizes, icing nozzles, icing bags, cupcake cases and boxes. If you are not able to make your own decorations out of icing we have some already made. We try and cater for all needs and requests, hence the vast array of stock we carry. If only we could push the walls or of the roof higher, then the sky is the limit. Come and visit us, we will be pleased to see you. Pightle Barn, Middlewood Green, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 5EU. 01449711014. www. wandmsmith.co.uk.

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Easter 2014

Happy Baking Make your Easter even more special this year with some easy-peasy recipes, perfect for baking with kids. It’s a great way to spend some quality time together and avoid any boredom during the bank holiday weekend. Children (and parents) will love it! Enjoy the preparation, and, of course, the yummy treats!

Everyone’s favourite Easter ingredient is perfect for creating tasty little nests. Just add cereal!

INGREDIENTS (makes 12) 100g WjiiZg! XjWZY & iWhe XdXdV edlYZg 50g b^a` X]dXdaViZ Wjiidch ,*\ \daYZc hngje ) H]gZYYZY L]ZVi (+ b^c^ X]dXdaViZ Z\\h METHOD How to make chocolate nests 1. Put the butter into a medium bowl, then add the cocoa powder, chocolate buttons and golden syrup. Microwave on high for 1 minute 30 seconds, or until melted, then stir to mix everything together. 2. Hold 1 shredded wheat over

INGREDIENTS (makes 12) &,*\ WjiiZg! hd[iZcZY! eajh ZmigV [dg \gZVh^c\ &,*\ XVhiZg hj\Vg ( bZY^jb Z\\h 225g eaV^c Å djg! h^[iZY & ihe WV`^c\ edlYZg & ihe b^mZY he^XZ (*%\ ajmjgn b^mZY Yg^ZY [gj^i 100g X]deeZY lVacjih dg VabdcYh <gViZY oZhi VcY _j^XZ d[ 1 dgVc\Z 100g cVijgVa VabdcY eVhiZ! XjWZY ;dg i]Z YZXdgVi^dc >X^c\ hj\Vg! id Yjhi ('*\ cVijgVa VabdcY eVhiZ NZaadl VcY \gZZc [ddY eVhiZ Xdadjg METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 160°C and lightly grease a 12x125ml muffin tin or mould. Beat the butter, sugar, eggs and flour in a mixing bowl until smooth. Add the baking powder, spice, fruit and nuts, orange zest and juice, and mix well. Divide between the muffin holes and push in the almond

paste pieces. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden and firm. Cool for 20 minutes, then remove from the tin and set aside on a wire rack. 2. To decorate, dust a worktop with icing sugar. Thinly roll out 250g almond paste. Press out 12 rounds with a 7cm plain cutter (re-roll the trimmings). Press on each cake and crimp the edges. 3. Colour 50g of the remaining almond paste with yellow colouring, kneading to evenly distribute. Repeat with the remaining paste and green colouring. Roll out the yellow paste and cut out 12 primroses with a flower cutter (from cake decorating shops) or using a small knife. Roll 12 small balls from the trimmings for the centre of each flower. 4. Using the green almond paste, roll out 12 tiny sausages. Flatten and shape each to make leaves. Mark veins on each with the back of a knife. Put beside each primrose and put on top of each cake to serve.

the bowl and squeeze in your hand to crumble it in. Repeat with the other 3 shredded wheat. Stir to mix evenly. 3. Line the patty tin with 12 paper cake cases and put a generous tablespoonful of mixture into each of the paper cases. Press the centre of each nest with your fingers to make a slight dip, then arrange 3 mini chocolate eggs in each of the dips. Chill for 30 minutes before eating. Tips: For this recipe you’ll need a 4.5cm wide, 2.5cm deep 12bun patty tin (a small fairy cake tin) and 12 paper cake cases.

A quicker version of the traditional Easter cake, these yummy mini simnel cakes are made with luxury dried fruit and almond paste.

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Colney Planning Ahead East Life Magazines 220 x 71_Layout

PLANNING AHEAD FAIR

MONDAY 28THAPRIL 9AM - 4 PM

Hosted by GreenAcres Woodland Burials – Colney at:

THE FORUM MILLENNIUM PLAIN NORWICH NR2 1TF

‘YOUR GOODBYE, YOUR WAY’ Talking about death, mortality, issues surrounding care and our final wishes remain one of the taboos of our society. Talking about it won't make it happen any sooner and we have gathered a range of expert organisations to hold stalls and seminars covering will-writing, legacy planning and funeral planning to help you say your goodbye your way. This event is free to attend.

Seminars run during the day and need to be booked in advance. For more information please call 01603 811556, email info.colney@greenacreswb.co.uk or book online at www.greenacreswoodlandburials.co.uk/colney 34|eastlife.co.uk 034_EL_Apr.indd 1

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Page tag

Golf: A sport for everyone The best golf courses in East Anglia Golf is not just a boring sport enjoyed by a small group of senior gents. Although still seen as a status pursuit, in the last few years it’s become hugely popular, reaching called middle class. More and more golf clubs, without giving up on their glamour

Here is a list of some of the best, selected by Simona Arcaro

Cambridgeshire BOURN GOLF & LEISURE CLUB If you are looking to play golf in the Cambridge area, a trip to Bourn Golf Club will not disappoint you. The expertly designed 18-hole parkland course is set in quiet and picturesque countryside complete with rolling hills, many large mature trees and three lakes – yet it is only 8 miles from Cambridge. Overall the course offers an enjoyable, relaxing challenge to golfers of all standards. Additionally, there are several quality Health and Fitness facilities and the club holds an excellent reputation for food and overall service. Toft road, Bourn, Cambridge CB23 2TT. 01954718057. www.bourngolfandleisure.co.uk. ELY CITY GOLF CLUB Ely City golf course is located on the outskirts of the city, offering amazing views to all visitors and players. Opened in 1962 and extended to 18 holes in 1973, it provides a true test for golfers of all abilities - the growth of the many trees and the compact nature of the location demand straight driving and accurate iron play. The club also boasts a welcoming clubhouse, the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a meal and good company. 107 Cambridge road, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4HX. 01353662751. www.elygolf.co.uk. Norfolk KING’S LYNN GOLF CLUB Located between the medieval port of King’s Lynn and the splendours of the Royal Norfolk Estate of Sandringham, this

is a challenging championship course. Founded in 1923, the club moved in 1975 from Leizate to its present idyllic location. The course was designed by Peter Alliss and Dave Thomas and has evolved into a magnificent 18-hole mature woodland course. Today it’s one of the finest inland courses in England and possibly the best in Norfolk. Golfers of any level can enjoy its fine fairways and greens. The warmest of welcomes is assured for visitors and societies, both in the Professionals shop and luxurious Club House. Castle Rising road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE31 6BD. 01553631654.

WESTON PARK GOLF CLUB Weston Park is one of the finest courses in Norfolk, offering a truly challenging game for golfers of all levels in beautiful surroundings (just 9 miles from Norwich). Year-round play is virtually assured by the quality of the course construction and the natural advantages of the site, which offers scenic views of the countryside. Fairways weave through the majestic oaks, beech, lime and chestnut trees that are home to an abundance of wildlife. It’s not unusual to see hares, pheasants and squirrels, and many golfers have been rewarded with a glimpse of wild roe deer racing across the course! A practice ground, chipping green, bunker and putting greens are all available for members and visitors to use. Golfing equipment can be arranged to hire. Weston Longville, Norwich, Norfolk, NR9 5JW. 01603872363. www.weston-park.co.uk.

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Golf Suffolk ALDEBURGH GOLF CLUB Established in 1884, Aldeburgh Golf Club has two courses, the 18-hole Championship Course and the River Course, a delightful 9 holes more suitable for beginners and high handicap golfers. The Championship Course, ranked 31st in England by Golf World, is built on maritime heathland and is characterised by gorse-lined fairways and far-reaching views of the River Alde and the North Sea. Fast-draining, sandy soil ensures that it plays well throughout the year. East Suffolk’s Heritage Coast is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Aldeburgh is at its heart - visitors are always highly welcome for an enjoyable tour. Saxmundham road, Aldeburgh, IP15 5PE. 01728452890. www.aldeburghgolfclub.co.uk.

FYNN VALLEY GOLF CLUB Set in the rolling countryside of rural Suffolk in Witnesham, only a 5-minute drive from the county town of Ipswich, this is a friendly, family-run Golf club where members and visitors can enjoy the extensive golfing facilities as well as the thriving social side of the game. In addition to the picturesque parkland 18-hole course, the club offers a 9-hole course, 22 bay floodlit covered golf range, practice greens and bunker, two golf shops and extensive clubhouse facilities set in converted Edwardian farm buildings. Witnesham, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP6 9JA. 01473785267. www.fynn-valley.co.uk.

attained a silver ranking in the HSBC Regional Course Rankings, is laid out over an undulating terrain that has a wealth of mature, mixed species trees with many water features. The golf course extends to 6,703 yards, with also a practice ground, clubhouse and professional shop facilities. Ongar road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9SS. 01277373179. www.bentleygolfclub.com. Herts BATCHWOOD HALL GOLF CLUB This is an 18-hole parkland course of 6,468 yards In the picturesque grounds of Batchwood Hall. Built in 1936, it was designed by J.H. Taylor, five times Open

Four reasons to join a golf course...NOW!

1. Challenge yourself

2. Still seen as a “gentleman’s game”

3. Get in touch with nature

4. Good for body and soul

Essex BENTLEY GOLF CLUB Established in 1972, Bentley Golf Club was designed by the Swan Family, who worked on a number of outstanding courses in the eastern region. The club, purchased by the Members in 2004, is now ranked as one of the premier clubs in the county. Bentley continues to host a number of county events including the Essex County Championship. The course, which has

Champion and the first Englishman to win the Open. A small private club, its facilities are owned by St Albans City & District Council and are managed on their behalf by Leisure Connection Ltd. The Club and Batchwood Golf Course have always been ‘stepping stones’ in the careers of Hertfordshire golfers, with some notable examples. Batchwood drive, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 5XA. 01727838857. www. batchwoodhallgc.com.

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Weddings

Bands of Good things come in small packages. Despite this well-known fact, weddings themselves are all too often big in every sense of the word. But don’t lose sight of what’s important during the often hugely overwhelming planning process...

Gold T

o dismiss a wedding or engagement ring as ‘just a piece of jewellery’ is to do the entire tradition a disservice. These material items serve as a symbol for the life you plan on building together, and the love you’re pledging to one and other forever. Ephemeral they are not. You will be wearing this ring for as long as you are married – hopefully for the rest of your life! Some historians believe that the use of wedding rings dates back to the Ancient Egyptians, when sedges, rushes and reeds growing alongside papyrus were twisted into rings. Romans also adopted this tradition, with rings made of iron to symbolise strength and permanence. Rings were only used in Christian marriages in about 860. Whatever the culture, the circle has long been a symbol of eternity with no beginning and no end. Thankfully we’ve come a long way from rings made of stark iron and braided rushes, though. These days wedding and engagement rings provide the opportunity to make a style statement, express your taste, and find a fittingly beautiful symbol to represent your commitment. We all know that the big bling comes at the beginning of the wedding process – with the engagement ring. There’s no need for any aspiring grooms to feel constrained by tradition, gemstone, or even budget when it comes to proposing. The traditional brilliant cut diamond solitaire in a typical gold setting is an obvious, conservative choice – deservedly popular because of its universal appeal. Princess, Emerald and Oval cuts are all small variations on this conventional theme. Not all brides, however, are conventional. The popularity of coloured stones is gaining momentum and shows no sign of abating. Not only do gems

such as Emeralds, Sapphires (in various shades, such as peach or pink - or even white!) and Garnets make beautiful pieces of jewellery, but they are unique choices too. They stand out and can be personalised to your bride. Why not opt for a stone in her favourite colour? Or her birthstone? Consider different metal settings as well – rose gold is feminine and has a ‘contemporary vintage’ feel, whilst yellow gold pairs beautifully with yellow diamonds. Mixing metals is another way to bring quirkiness to a ring setting. The engagement ring will to some extent define the style of the wedding ring – no one wants there to be a mismatch. Simple, slender bands in a matching precious metal are elegant and discrete, and do not steal focus from the engagement ring if it is the main event. But if the engagement ring itself is subtle, or even non existent, then the wedding ring is another chance to experiment and choose a really lovely piece of jewellery. There are plenty of different styles of wedding band to choose from for women, with jewellery designers experimenting with a variety of styles and embellishments. Carved details have a subtle elegance and a vintage feel, and stunning pavé diamonds provide gorgeous sparkle. Really elaborate designs have actual cut out patterns set with gems. But sparkle and embellishment aren’t just for the girls. Men may not be accustomed to wearing jewellery, but that could soon change once they catch a glimpse of the different styles on offer to them. The first step is to choose the perfect precious metal. Choose something that looks good against your skin tone, or a favourite metal. It doesn’t have to be white, yellow or rose gold!

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Weddings Try black titanium for a super masculine look. Two tone wedding bands add interest to otherwise simple designs. Depending on the groom’s personal sparkle threshold, there are plenty of bejewelled men’s rings available, varying from a subtle strip of off-centre diamonds to a bold row flanked by other gems, such as sapphire. For interest and design flair without gems, mixing textures is the way to go – matte metal finishes next to their shiny counterparts are striking. Subtle patterned embellishments in the form of blocks, squares, or ridges, are elaborate but nevertheless masculine. Enjoy the wedding ring buying process for what it is – a shining oasis of indulgence in the midst of wedding planning mayhem. Choose something that works for you, and stay open minded – your perfect ring may be the last thing you’d expect!

The Perfect Venue... Hylands Estate Set in over 500 acres of glorious parkland and gardens and with easy reach of the A12 and M25, Hylands is the perfect venue for a magnificent event. We have a choice of settings to suit every occasion however intimate or grand. Choose from one of our meticulously restored period rooms within the house itself or the contemporary Grand Pavilion exuding timeless glamour for up to 250 dinner guests. Whatever the occasion, we hope you will be inspired by the setting and impressed with our dedicated team, offering advice and fabulous hospitality Or join us Sunday 18 May 2014 for our Wedding Open Day as we proudly open our doors to view Hylands House and Grand Pavilion; both venues will be sumptuously dressed and our experienced wedding team and suppliers will be on hand to discuss your wedding plans. To register for a free welcome pack to our Wedding Open Day 16 May 2014 10am – 4pm, please email: hylands@chelmsford.gov.uk. Call 01245 605500 Visit the website www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylands.

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Education

The Best Of

CAMBRIDGE Independent Schools & Colleges The second most important decision you will make as a parent - apart from deciding to have the child in the first place - is deciding which school to enrol your child in. Make the right decision and you could put them on a path toward lifelong learning, a prestigious university education and a successful career. EastLife goes through some of Cambridge’s top independent schools and colleges to help you with your decision.

The Perse Upper School

St Mary’s (Girl’s school)

The Leys

The Perse School in Cambridge is one of the UK’s leading coeducational independent day schools with over 1000 boys and girls aged 11-18. It was founded by Dr Stephen Perse, a Fellow of Gonville & Caius College, nearly 400 years ago. As such, they have introduced new exam qualifications like International GCSE and the Pre-U which better meet the needs of their talented pupils. The school has greatly extended their foreign language provision which now includes Arabic, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian, Portuguese and Italian alongside French, German and Spanish. The students achieve some of the best I/GCSE, A level, Pre U and Oxbridge entry results in the country. Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 8QF. 01223403800. www.perse.co.uk.

St Mary’s is unique in a number of ways. For example, they are a Catholic day and boarding school for girls, the only school of this type in Cambridge. Plus, St Mary’s is now the only all-girls’ school in the area, which is widely acknowledged to be the best learning environment for girls. They educate girls from ages 4-18, providing a seamless transition at every stage. St Mary’s Senior School has been inspected three times in the past two years. St Mary’s School, Cambridge is delighted to announce that 73.3% of GCSE grades were awarded at A* or A and on top of that all inspectors from three independent bodies have given the school high praise. Bateman Street, Cambridge, CB2 1LY. 01223353253. www.stmaryscambridge.co.uk.

Established in 1875, the School offers a blend of traditional values and a forward-looking approach to education, to prepare young people for the challenges and excitements which lie ahead at University and beyond. Set on the edge of the beautiful and stimulating city of Cambridge, The Leys is a close-knit, friendly community in which pastoral care is seen as a top priority. The core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science, Divinity, IT and Foreign Languages feature strongly, while they expect pupils to expand their horizons through the Humanities, Drama, Art, Design, Music and Sport. Around 70% of GCSE pupils were awarded an A* - A. The Leys School, Cambridge, CB2 7AD. 01223508900. www.theleys.net. eastlife.co.uk|43

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Bold Imaginative Reflective Three words to define your daughter’s future. Add three more:

Open Day Thursday 8th May, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 | www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

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Education Cambridge Regional College Cambridge Regional College is one of the largest Further Education colleges in the region, providing excellent full-time and part-time courses, apprenticeships and Higher Education programmes. Delivering excellent quality and achieving outstanding results for their learners is their top priority. They focus on the development of curriculum that is directly and demonstrably responsive to employer needs and which achieves high rates of positive progression for students. The college has some of the best facilities in the country, and students enjoy learning here, thanks to their inspirational teachers, great courses and modern, purpose-built learning areas. A fantastic 96 per cent of students who go to CRC would recommend it to their friends. Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge CB4 2QT. 01223418200.

Long Road Sixth Form College You’re probably putting all your efforts into your GCSEs at the moment, but it will soon be time to think about your sixth form studies. Go and find out why Long Road Sixth Form College in Cambridge is a great place to study. They are running two taster days this year, on 18 and 27 June 2014 – you choose which date suits you better. You’ll be able to try out five different subject areas across their whole curriculum, to see what sixth form teaching is like, to talk to current students, to spend time looking around the College and to try out their purpose-built student centre. You’ll know as soon as you arrive that there’s a different atmosphere at Long Road Sixth Form College. You’re treated more as a young adult, able to plan your time and work with teachers in a friendly and collaborative way. Long Road, Cambridge, CB2 8PX. 01223507400. www.longroad.ac.uk. eastlife.co.uk|45

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Education Cambridge Centre for Sixthform Studies CCSS is a co-educational independent sixth-form college and provides both boarding and day places, for approximately 200 students. It principally offers two-year and one-year A-Level programmes and a one-year GCSE programme. CCSS is characterised by exceptional levels of academic and pastoral support at all stages. The age range is mainly 15-21 although the College is pleased to admit a number of more mature students each year according to their individual circumstances. The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) said that “CCSS provides a high quality educational experience”, achieving its aim of providing an individual approach to every student. They also rated teaching as “high quality” and pastoral care as “outstanding”. 4-5 Bene’t Place, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB1 2JF. 01223716890. www.ccss.co.uk.

Mander Portman Woodward

CATS College

The Mander Portman Woodward (MPW) college in Cambridge, was established in 1987 and is a co-educational GCSE and A level college accepting up to 170 students each year. The college is situated in spacious and attractive premises a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Cambridge. No student is accepted without attending an interview and once a student is accepted, the school aim is to provide the most effective possible preparation for the specific exams the individual student will be taking. Their method is based on intensive tuition in small groups, close personal monitoring of progress and regular examination practice. The school insists on strict punctuality in the attendance of lessons and the submission of homework, but are otherwise free of many of the school rules which today’s students find restrictive. 3-4 Brookside, Cambridge, CB2 1JE. 01223350158. www.mpw.co.uk.

CATS College’s approach to teaching and learning has been called ‘exemplary’ by recent government inspectors. The College is set up to help its students focus on success and seize every opportunity. Whatever intended careers their many students have, the college is able to provide a unique level of support like unlimited additional tuition, and professional expertise in degree placement and careers guidance. Based in Cambridge, a beautiful, friendly city steeped in history, renowned as a centre of learning for over 800 years, today’s students are able to stand out from the crowd and achieve the best university places. The college offers a number of awards and activities that either provide additional credit / UCAS points, or exciting personal development opportunities. 84 per cent of A level students achieved Russell Group offers. 13-14 Round Church Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AD. 01223314431. www.catscollege.com.

ide of sive gu East prehen m o ro c c a ss For a schools t n e te d si n r web Indepe visit ou . Anglia e.co.uk lif st a .e www r r all you r site fo ur siste o t u s o d Check ng nee parenti k. uts.co.u ro p .s w ww orfolk st Of N : The Be hools e su Is t Sc Nex ndent Indepe

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Education King’s Ely

Whitehall School

Students of all ages are encouraged to take risks and push themselves beyond the boundaries of their expectations. What makes them special is their determination to instil in the young people in their care a real enthusiasm for learning and a belief that drives them all, that all students can achieve if the teaching is approached in a way that suits the learning style of each student. This is not necessarily easy; it can even be challenging or uncomfortable. But King’s Ely students know that they are well supported and that their teachers believe in them, so they are willing to put in the hard work that will bring about the highest levels of attainment. Nearly 60% of A level students achieved A* - B grades and more than 70 per cent of GCSE students were awarded with an A*- B grade. King’s Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4EW. 01353660700.

Whitehall School offers an engaging and stimulating programme of education where children flourish academically, creatively and socially. Music and Drama play a large part in the life of the school, leading to a number of productions throughout the year. They are an independent day school with traditional values and a modern, forward-thinking approach to their children and the time they spend with them. The school consists of a main Edwardian house and 18th Century coach house, set in extensive grounds. Facilities include a covered heated swimming pool, a playground, sensory garden, games field, an IPad suite and a library. The school is situated in the Cambridgeshire village of Somersham, within easy reach of Cambridge, Huntingdon, Ely, and the surrounding villages. Somersham, Cambridgeshire, PE28 3EH. 01487840966. www.whitehallschool.com.

Wisbech Grammar School

Otley College

Wisbech Grammar School are proud of their past but focus on their future. Staff at the school believe it is their main duty to develop and challenge all the pupils in their care. The school enjoys a 21 acre site, giving students enough space to breathe and explore. Recent buildings include the Alan Salmon Hall which is an assembly and performance space for their Preparatory School, an extension to their Sports Hall plus the Dwight Centre for Performing Arts and English. The latest addition to the campus, the new Hazel Sixth Form Centre, opened in 2010. Results at the School remain consistently amongst the best in three counties at both GCSE and A level. Boys and girls are exposed to a large number of challenging subjects in their earlier years before they choose their GCSE options at the end of the third form. N Brink, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, PE13 1JX. 01945583631. www.wgs.cambs.sch.uk.

Otley College is located 9 miles outside of Ipswich, set in a selfcontained campus designed to cater for a wide range of courses in specialist buildings and areas. The college is known for its vocational courses at Levels 1, 2, 3, 4 and above, with qualifications such as Diplomas, Extended Diplomas and Foundation degrees making up the majority of full-time provision, in addition to Pre-Entry and Entry Level courses. Courses combine practical work with classroom-based activities that provide different curriculum experiences and different subjects to study. Work experience and work placements form an integral part of most courses. A wide range of Apprenticeship Programmes are also available. Otley Campus, Charity Lane, Otley, Ipswich, Suffolk IP6 9EY. 01473785543. www.eastonotley.ac.uk. www.cava.ac.uk. eastlife.co.uk|49

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HUB THE HUB HOTEL THE

PE TERBOROUGH

The Hub is a newly refurbished hotel located less than 2 miles from the city centre and Peterborough train station. We are ideally located for both leisure and corporate guests. Our room prices are he most competetive in the City, with rates starting from ÂŁ24.95 per night. The whole hotel was fully refurbished in October 2013 to a very high standard including all rooms and public areas. All our 71 rooms come equipped with 22 inch flat screen television with access to the full range of satellite & cable channels providing over 100 channels, access to high-speed internet, complementary parking, continental breakfast and discounts on wine bar for in-house guests. The Hub Peterborough, Newton Way, The Boongate, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 5QT

Phone: 01733 894400 www.thehub-hotels.com Email: info@thehub-hotels.com

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Fireplaces

Think ahead for winter heating Don’t leave it until the cold weather sets in to think about heating, advises Classic Stoves & Fireplaces. Whilst we are enjoying the spring weather and winter still seems a thing of the past, here are a few tips to ensure that you can keep your home warm once the weather grows cold again in the autumn. • If you are thinking about having a wood burning or multifuel stove installed, contact Classic Stoves & Fireplaces as soon as possible to arrange a survey, which is free of charge. It can then be fitted ready for the cold weather. • To ensure efficient running of your stove arrange to have your chimney swept by a qualified sweep. • If you think your stove needs repairs ask us to carry out a service. • Ensure your carbon monoxide meter and smoke alarms are working. • Order plenty of logs or smokeless coal, and store your logs in a well ventilated dry place. Classic Stoves & Fireplaces Ltd - Charles Industrial Estate, Stowmarket IP14 5AH. 01449 678659. www.classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk.

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Fireplaces

Fireplaces:

Think forward Fireplaces are making a comeback, adding romance, grandeur or a modern edge to a room. Turn the clock back fifty years and the traditional fireplace looked like a thing of the past. Central heating had taken over as a source of warmth. Nowadays fireplaces are back in the limelight, adding thousands to your property value. Historic home expert and director of Jackson-Stops & Staff, Dawn Carritt, claims that whenever asking prospective country house buyers what they want more than anything else, the reply is always the same: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We must have a fireplace.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Plus, this is the best period of the year in terms of costs if you think of buying one, and the options available are endless. Modern fireplaces are sleek and can bring class to any room. Whether placed in a wall or free standing, modern fireplaces are aesthetically pleasing and can be customized to suit the look of your contemporary home. However, for many, fireplaces bring to mind the look of a traditional home, which is easy to achieve. Though these Georgian and Victorian styles bring an authentic look to your home, they are equipped with the latest technology to bring both elegance and safety. Whatever your design preference, there is a fireplace to suit your taste. Whether electric, gas, wood or oil, contemporary fires are suited for any room you choose. Keeping your home heated with fireplaces can combat the soaring costs of energy bills in the winter months. When considering installation, make sure to speak to your contractor about ways to make your fireplace the most efficient.

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Suffolk Carpet Weavers Visit our new showrooms at Top Street, Martelsham IP12 4RB

Largest range of Qualitys 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 eastlife.co.uk|57 057_EL_Apr.indd 1

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See our mobile show vehicle at Nottcutts Garden Centre, Daniel's Road Norwich in April Or at the Aztec Spring Garden Show on Norfolk Showground Friday 9th - 11th May

Completely bespoke, totally Quayside

For our brochure or further information contact Quayside Conservatories on

01502 714512 or visit our website

Quayside Conservatories Specialist manufacturers of high quality hardwood Conservatories, Orangeries, Lantern Roofs, Garden Rooms, Windows & Doors. Introducing the NEW QTech Window Range â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rated thermal storm-proof, flush casement and traditional wood windows. Manufactured from Accoya - 60 year minimum service life, the most durable timber, the most stable timber, eco-friendly FSC certified wood, BBA Assessment 2862.

U values of the timber windows are 1.4 or better. www.quayside-conservatories.co.uk enquiries@quayside-conservatories.co.uk Fully factory presprayed in microporous lacquer in a multitude of colours.

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Conservatories

Quayside Conservatories celebrate their 20th Birthday

his coming April will see the celebration of another milestone by Quayside Conservatories who will be celebrating their 20th birthday in 2014. In the early years of the business in which glasshouses/conservatories were made mostly with polycarbonate roofs; the company quickly expanded and by June 1994 the company had 7 employees, 5 of whom are still with the company! In the first few years the Victorian style conservatory was the most popular with the recognisable faceted front face. The Edwardian style with the square front, but hipped style roof came a poor second with less that half the buildings being made in this style and lean-to and Georgian style buildings being only occasionally asked for. Many of these buildings were also set sizes and were suitable for the DIY market, however Quayside Conservatories actually did install most of them. In the second year of trading they made their first Lantern roof which was unheard of at the time and another one was not made until five years later. In 2014 these are now a growing area of business and the conservatory industry as a whole as clients look to open up and make light, dark areas of their home. By 1997 the Georgian style conservatory with the gable roof flush with the front of the conservatory started to become more widely sort after and this was about the time of the decline of the Victorian. In 2001 Quayside Conservatories were asked to create their first orangery. This was an extensive piece of work

and took some months to complete. In 2005 several clients approached Quayside Conservatories for orangeries and at this time a disused library van came up for sale. This was duly purchased and a mobile orangery created, this made its first outing to the Royal Norfolk Show in June 2006 and was an instant success with the general public. Many a head could be seen turning as this mobile, glass building made its way along the A146 from Beccles to Norwich. The timber colour was originally a heritage green hue and this remained for a couple of years until a call for change saw the vehicle change to coffee tone in colour and the window design was updated as was an upgrade in specification to the more modern glass units currently available. Quayside Conservatories have certainly seen a change in fashion over their 20 years and last year only one Victorian conservatory was made with the main bulk of their work now being orangeries, garden rooms and lantern roofs. I might also add as the craftsmen who create and install these buildings have become more proficient they have also become quicker and it no longer takes the original couple of months that the first of their orangery clients was happy to wait, whilst the construction was taking place. To see them into the next 10 years the Directors are currently looking into developing a high efficiency, high performance window. For further information please go to www.quaysideconservatories.co.uk or telephone 01502 714512.

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Damaged? Holes! Chips! Cracks!

Bath Resurfacing & Sanitary Ware Repair Specialist For more information or a chat call

Tel: 01728 685958 www.dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk

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Complimentary Wellbeing Membership When you use our pay-as-you-go services for surgery at Nuffield Health Cambridge Hospital, you will receive complimentary membership to our Fitness and Wellbeing Centre in Cambridge.

At Nuffield Health Cambridge Hospital we believe that looking after your health does not stop when you are discharged from hospital. We therefore give every patient who comes in as a pay-as-you-go daycase or inpatient procedure a complimentary voucher for membership at our Cambridge Fitness and Wellbeing Centre.***     

Your choice of Consultant No waiting lists 0% MRSA Free parking Open visiting hours

For more information, contact us now 01223 855637 nuffieldhealth.com/cambridgehospital *Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. Promise is valid for patients paying for themselves. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention. ***Terms and conditions apply.

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Health

HEALTH AND FITNESS – JOINING UP THE TWO Do you need to have surgery and are considering a pay as you go option? Do you worry about getting back to fitness once you have been in hospital? Were you on a fitness campaign and want helping getting back into the routine? Will your surgery be the start you are looking for to get into a fitness regime?

f any of these questions can be answered with a ‘Yes’, then

For more information on pay for yourself health care call 01223 855637. For more information about Cambridge Fitness and Wellbeing, gym membership, Health MOT and Health Score please call 01223855602. *Memberships are not transferable and will be valid for the patient only.

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Health

Breakthrough Auction BRAZILIAN LEGEND RONALDO CELEBRATES TOTAL RAISED THROUGH SIR BOBBY’S BREAKTHROUGH AUCTION

ir Bobby Robson’s career in football management brought him trophies at home and abroad, the pride of managing both his home-town club and his country, and the honour of managing Barcelona, regarded by most as the biggest club in the world. And looking back on his time in football, there was one player he consistently described as the best he ever worked with, the 20-yearold striker he brought to Barcelona in 1996 - Brazilian legend Ronaldo. The pair worked together for just eight months but such was the mutual respect between them that Ronaldo did not hesitate when asked for help with an auction to benefit his former manager’s cancer charity. Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction, a hugely successful online auction and ball supported by BT Sport, raised money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, Breakthrough Breast Cancer and cancer services within two Suffolk Hospitals. Founded by Gina Long from Suffolk and organised with the help of a dedicated committee, it raised an incredible £361,500 in October last year thanks to the generosity of bidders and support from stars including Sir Alex Ferguson, Jose Mourinho, Andre Villas-Boas, Josep Guardiola, Amanda Holden, Bill Nighy, Piers Morgan, Graeme Swann and Lewis Hamilton. Gina asked Ronaldo if he would like to contribute to the auction and he kindly agreed to donate a signed Brazil shirt and meet up with the winning bidder in London for a photograph. He also took the opportunity to meet with Gina and Sir Bobby’s son, Mark Robson, to find out more about the auction and the cancer charities it is supporting. Ronaldo, an Ambassador for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, says: “I was pleased to help Sir Bobby’s

Breakthrough Auction. I also have a Foundation in Brazil and I think it’s amazing how people can help others. “Sir Bobby and I had a lot of luck to work in football. It’s good that, through these Foundations, we can help other people.” “It makes me feel happy to hear how highly Sir Bobby talked about me because he’s a legend of football. I’m proud to have worked with him. He was an awesome coach and an awesome person. He was like a father to me. I have had a lot of managers in football but the difference between all of them and Sir Bobby was his humanity and the relationships he had with the players. He was always like a father to everyone”. After retiring from football, Sir Bobby put all his energy into the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, the cancer charity he established in 2008. His widow, Lady Elsie, and three sons are helping continue the charity’s work and it has now raised over £5.8million to find more effective ways to detect and treat cancer. As a fund within the local NHS

Hospital’s Charity, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation relies completely on volunteer fundraisers and Gina Long is one of the most dedicated. Gina says: “We were absolutely thrilled when Ronaldo agreed to help us. Having now had the great privilege of meeting Ronaldo, I was so impressed by the humility of the man. His smile lights up the room”. This is the second online auction and ball Gina has organised in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and Breakthrough Breast Cancer. The first, in 2011, raised almost £250,000 with auction lots including Jose Mourinho’s Ballon D’Or. Gina adds: “Since I lost my good friends Sally Balch and Sir Bobby to cancer, it has always been important to me to raise funds for cancer charities. I really needed the support of the other members of the committee to take Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction forward and it has been an incredible team effort. The experience has underlined for me the continued importance of supporting charities which are working hard to find a cure for this terrible disease. Sadly, cancer has no boundaries whatsoever. We’re proud of what we’ve been able to achieve and our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who supported our efforts.” Sir Bobby’s son, Mark, a member of the Sir Bobby’s Breakthrough Auction committee, says: “My Dad just loved Ronaldo. And I was so happy to meet him again after all these years and to be able to thank him in person for helping with the auction. I know my Dad would be very proud and thankful of Ronaldo’s involvement in the auction and so grateful that he’s helped out. He’s been so generous with his time and we’re all very appreciative.” For more information, please visit www.sirbobbysbreakthrough.com. eastlife.co.uk|71

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Health

Rosacea Awareness Month at SK Clinic + Spa

The National Rosacea Society designates April as Rosacea Awareness Month and SK Clinic and Spa are offering a special promotion throughout the month. Rosacea is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed; it has been called ‘the great pretender’ as the early symptoms can often be confused with acne, mild sensitivity and even sunburn. Now, however, the condition is becoming more common so it’s important to recognise both the signs of its development and what steps can be taken to help to control it. At SK the experts have a specialised in-spa Facial and 4 award-winning homecare products, all by the 100% natural skincare brand Pevonia, to treat this serious condition. To support Rosacea Awareness Month throughout April, why not go and experience a Rosacea Facial performed by a highly-trained therapist and see the exceptional results desired by those suffering from severe sensitivity, broken capillaries, Rosacea and Acne Rosacea. This alleviating thermal clay mask provides soothing relief and visible results to dilated capillaries, congestion,

blotchiness, and irritability. Comforting and healing natural ingredients such as: Rose, Green Tea, Chamomile and Liquorice, combine to properly decongest and calm your skin for an even, healthy appearance. This facial is also ideal for Vascular skin conditions. ONLY £55 – usually £65 throughout April at SK. Plus, purchase an RS2 Care Cream in April and you’ll get a travel size RS2 Cleanser & Lotion completely FREE! If left untreated, rosacea symptoms often get worse and become more difficult to treat, so take that first step and visit SK where specialised therapists can help to reduce hot flushes, soothe sensitivity, alleviate persistent redness and calm blotchiness with the long term goal of improving your skin control, thereby re-building your confidence. They can also discuss with you common Rosacea triggers and how to incorporate lifestyle changes to help control the symptoms. SK Clinic + Spa, Victory Chapel, 4 Northgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1HG. 01284748470. info@ skclinic.co.uk, www.skclinic.co.uk.

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Arts

ART SCENE COLLETTE HOEFKENS Letchworth Garden City www.nortonwaygallery.com

MOMENTS FROM BENEATH THE SKY 15 MARCH - 17 APRIL

At last, we can see lovely new shoots on the trees and shrubs and what appears to be a promise of warmer weather. Surely, spring is just around the corner. With this inspiration and wonder of all things new, I’d like to focus on a beautiful little gallery in the village location of Over, Cambridgeshire. Although still very young, only in its second year, this gallery already hosts a superb collection of very fine artists. Run by Helen Taylor, with her long held interest in art and textiles, the gallery has a strong and fitting influence from the natural world. Her passion for the outdoors with its helen@overgallery.co.uk amazing colour palette is very much reflected in the artists and artwork she chooses. With a continually changing display of jewellery, ceramics, and glass, the gallery also holds a number of solo exhibitions throughout the year. From March 15 until April 17, you can catch the wonderful work of award winning, painter and original printmaker, Matt Underwood, in “Moments from Beneath the Sky”. Matt’s work reveals his intimate observation of the natural world. As a beekeeper and keen naturalist he has an abundance of knowledge and eye for detail that enables him to create works of confidence and freedom. Born in 1971 he studied art and art history at Salisbury College of Art and Carmarthenshire College of Art. Always drawn to nature, Matt has explored various ways of working, experimenting with and developing his tender but powerful style: “It took me time to find my voice as an artist to convey how I see the natural world.” The result is warm and vibrant work that reflects his joy of nature, whilst also conveying the harmony and intricacy of this challenged environment that surrounds us. “Somehow, I feel each piece seems to personally acknowledge the delicate balance of this beautiful world, that we need to respect and preserve. “Capturing moments from beneath the sky be it the joy of fresh flowers, an adder basking in the spring sunshine or redwings about to take flight from a berry laden hedgerow; Matt’s paintings are visual poems on nature.” – Helen Taylor. This latest showing of Matt’s work includes both paintings and woodblock original prints. His work has been represented throughout country and exhibited at the Medici Gallery, The Mall Gallery and the Llewellyn Alexander Gallery. The Over Gallery 25 High Street, Over Cambridge, CB24 5NB 01954230997

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Arts

lifford Blakey, whose work features in the Spring Show at the Market Place Gallery, Olney, is a landscape artist who shows only at a very few selected galleries each year. His journey to become a successful painter began when he graduated from Newcastle University with an MA in Fine Art. Since then he has had a varied career within art and design, and has collected a range of prizes for his work including the Brian Mosely Memorial Award (1999) and he has also been made a Fellow of the British Watercolour Society. Often buyers describe the way in which they feel engulfed in the paintings Clifford produces, as if they have been placed into the actual landscape. Cliff wants those who buy his work to own “the genuine article” and for this reason he will not make prints of his paintings, although there are some paintings he could have sold many times over. “It is a big thing for most people to invest in buying a painting” he says “I am very privileged to be in this position… People have to know that each painting is the very best that I could have done with my skills at that time.” With grateful thanks to Mike Caddis for content.

Clifford Blakey’s work can be seen at The Market Place Gallery, Market Place, Olney, MK46 4AJ, from 28 Feb 2014. For opening hours and more images, see www.marketplacegallery.co.uk.

Arts REGION Around the

n a novel and generous gesture, the well-known Scottish painter, Michael Clark PAI, is making an unusual donation to the Sudbury based arts charity, Gainsborough’s House. Clark is opening a solo exhibition entitled ‘A Painter’s Palette’ at the Lime Tree Gallery (one of East Anglia’s leading contemporary fine art galleries, in Long Melford), on Saturday March 22 - a show of 35 new works. The palette he used in creating the paintings has been mounted and framed, like a painting, and will be sold during the exhibition. All proceeds from the sale will go to Gainsborough’s House. A keen supporter of arts in the community, and a long time lover of Suffolk, Clark, who will be present at the opening of the exhibition, said: ‘I think it is fantastic that the childhood home of one of our greatest artists is still making an active contribution to the artistic development and education of his community, almost 300 years after his birth.’ The Director of Gainsborough’s House says ‘I am delighted to see that Thomas Gainsborough still inspires artists today and I am delighted that Michael has agreed to donate to Gainsborough’s House.’ For further information, contact: Lime Tree Gallery: Sue Dean, owner 07879475462. www.limetreegallery.com. Gainsborough’s House: Mark Bills, Director 01787372958. www. gainsborough.org.

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Not only will you find over 3000 events on our website - you can add your own, too!

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Arts

orwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery The Wonder of Birds 24 May to 14 September 2014

The Wonder of Birds will explore the cultural impact of birds upon humankind. Eliciting a wide range of emotions from awe to fear, from pleasure to cruelty, birds have intrigued humanity since the earliest of times. The exhibition will span the centuries and will include the arts, natural history, archaeology, fashion and social history, with loans from local and national collections. Comprising six sections, each will focus on a different aspect of birds, their meanings and our relationships with them. Some 220 works by major artists and illustrators, historical and contemporary, will be on show and the exhibition will examine local, national and international issues. Castle Hill, Norwich, East Anglia NR1 3JU. www.museums. norfolk.gov.uk.

Arts REGION Around the

London Row takes Baldock by Storm!

London Row, sister gallery to Gallery 1066 opened its doors last Friday to officially launch the Grand Opening of a ‘Gallery with a difference’. Not even the torrent of non-stop rain could ‘whet’ the appetite of collectors as over 150 people celebrated the opening of this beautifully transformed ‘Art Deco’ shop, originally Chapman’s the Butchers to the now transformed Gallery of London Row. In attendance to mingle with guests was the much acclaimed British Sculptor Carl Payne. His extraordinary figurative sculpture has won him collectors from all over the world and in tribute to British Skaters Torvill and Dean, Carl has just finished a magnificent tribute to celebrate 30 years since the couples perfect ‘10’ for their Bolero ice dance in Sarajevo. The sculpture will stand outside the National Ice Centre in Nottingham and London Row were proud to have Carl in attendance. Alongside Carl Payne another British talent Antonio Russo was happy to chat with clients about his stunning new collections of work which were centre place in the gallery. Antonio has been shortlisted for Best Up and Coming Artist of the Year by the Fine Art Trade Guild Awards 2014 and the artist,

who is colour blind and paints to music, is now collected by famous names such as John Cleese, Beyonce Knowles, Kim Kardashian, Kayne West and Lewis Hamilton. Hayley Norman, Gallery owner, commented “It was such a good vibe especially for clients to meet two such acclaimed British artists, with London Row firmly on the map we are looking forward to continually bring new talent and a range of refreshing original gift ideas from around the world. If you have been wondering where you can find something special for your home or loved one then lose yourself in one of the most sought after galleries in Hertfordshire. No longer is there a requirement to travel to London or Cambridge to be indulged in a variety of the finest and most talented artists. London Row now boasts some of the world’s most acclaimed contemporary artists’ works available right here on your doorstep. With our sister gallery 1066 only a minute walk away Baldock is firmly putting art on the map in Hertfordshire. For a taste of something different take a visit to London Row, we are situated next to The George and St. Mary’s Church where you can also find a bite to eat in a relaxed environment. We look forward to welcoming you!” 4 Church Street, Baldock, Herts, SG7 5AD. 01462347347. info@londonrowfineart.com / www.londonrowfineart.com.

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ARTEFACTS FROM IRON AGE HOARDS TO THE DEATH MASK OF A REVOLUTIONARY

that define Norfolk 1

THE HAPPISBURGH HAND-AXE The Happisburgh Handaxe rocked the academic world when it was unearthed in 2000. This precious artefact radically altered historians’ understanding of our country’s past, revealing that Britain had been inhabited by human beings for 100,000 years longer than had originally been thought. The flint hand-axe, which is on display at Norwich Castle Museum, was used by our early ancestors as a butchery tool, carving flesh from skeletons between 500,000 and 700,000 years ago. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Norwich, East Anglia, NR1 3JU. 01603493649.

SEAHENGE The Holme Timber Circle, also known as ‘Seahenge’, was a prehistoric monument consisting of a timber circle with an upturned tree root in the centre. It was most likely built for ritual purposes in the 21st century BC during the early Bronze Age Britain. After being excavated in the late 90s, Seahenge was lovingly restored and preserved, and is now on display at the refurbished Lynn Museum in King’s Lynn. The Lynn Museum, Market Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1NL. 01553775001.

THE CROWNTHORPE HOARD In 1982 a metal-detector user made a startling discovery: a hoard of Iron Age and Roman drinking vessels that had been deliberately buried near a Romano-British settlement at Crownthorpe in central Norfolk. This archaeologically significant group of objects even includes cups that exhibit a unique fusion of Celtic and Roman styles, unparalleled outside of this hoard. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Norwich, East Anglia, NR1 3JU. 01603493649.

PERSONAL SEAL MATRIX OF QUEEN BALTHILD The personal seal matrix of Queen Bathild was discovered in 1999 in a field a few miles east of Norwich. It was originally part of a swivelling finger ring, and its engravings suggest an early Anglo-Saxon date. Closer study and inspection came to associate the object with Bathild, wife and queen of Clovis II, king of Burgundy and Neustria (639-658). She is known to have been an Anglo-Saxon of elite birth, and this personal seal may have been returned to her homeland after her death. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Norwich, East Anglia, NR1 3JU. 01603493649.

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10 Artefacts that define Norfolk

SNETTISHAM GREAT TORC Snettisham has been a site of settlement since ancient times, and many high-quality artefacts are discovered there. The Snettisham Hoard comprised many rare items, including Iron Age precious metal discoveries, dating from the first century BC. The Snettisham Torc is one of these amazing finds. It is regarded as an exceptional example of insular British art, and may have been buried as part of the hoard for security at the time Britain was invaded. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Norwich, East Anglia, NR1 3JU. 01603493649.

OLIVE EDIS SELFPORTRAIT Olive Edis was an exceptional photographer who pioneered new photographic techniques in the early 20th century. She is credited for developing autochrome photography – the first true colour photographic process. Though she photographed everyone from socialites and royalty to the armed services during the war, some of her most sensitive studies were of North Norfolk’s fishermen.

k Snettisham Great Torc

THE PASTON TREASURE The Paston Treasure is one of the most important depictions of a schatzkammer (cabinet of treasures) in the history of British collecting. It is a record of the magnificent collections once held at Oxnead Hall in Norfolk, home of the Paston family. From the Dutch school, it was probably painted between 1666-69. As well as being gorgeous to look at, the painting’s importance lies in the international scope and interest of the objects portrayed. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Norwich, East Anglia, NR1 3JU. 01603493649.

THOMAS PAINE’S DEATH MASK Thomas Paine is one of Norfolk’s most famous and internationally influential sons. Born at Thetford in 1737, he was an author, radical, inventor, and intellectual revolutionary. As one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, he participated in the American Revolution and even greatly influenced the French Revolution. He was more known for his book (The Rights of Man, 1791) than for his face, but fortunately it was preserved for posterity in his death mask, made by his friend John Wesley Jarvis. Thetford Museum of Ancient Life, White Hart Street, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 1AA. 01842752599.

ANTLER COMB

Cromer Museum, Tucker Street, Cromer, Norfolk, NR27 9HB. 01263513543.

Given that it was collected in southern Alaska, you might wonder what this antler comb has to do with Norfolk. But it was discovered during Captain George Vancouver’s voyage in the Pacific on HMS Discovery. Born in 1757 in King’s Lynn, Vancouver sailed on James Cook’s second voyage, and his detailed mapping of the Northwest coast of America guided voyagers for generations. The comb is one of the earliest documented pieces to have been collected among the Tlingit people, and is notable for its dramatically stylised bird, which possibly represents the mythical raven.

University of East Anglia, Earlham Road, Norwich NR4 7TJ. 01603593199.

FLIGHT JACKET WORN BY THE PILOT OF B17 ‘FEVER BEAVER’ This flying jacket was worn by the pilot of the B17 Flying Fortress aircraft, which was given the name ‘Fever Beaver’ by its crew on its 100th mission. It represents an important episode in 20th century history when Norfolk became a massive airbase for American bomber aircraft and their crews who helped swing the tide towards Allied victory in the Second World War. The ‘Fever Beaver’ was in the 351st squadron which flew from Thorpe Abbotts, where the 100th Bombardment Group was based. 100th Bomb Group Memorial Museum, Common Road, Dickleburgh, Norfolk, IP21 4PH. 01379740708.

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Norfolk and Norwich Festival

Last Year’s Norfolk and Norwich Festival

as nature’s unseen force breathes life into them. 18 May - Little Artist Big Painting, Chepelfield Gardens 11am 12.30/2pm Join Commotion Dance in a world of magical movement and daring expression. 19 May - At The World’s Edge, Norwich Puppet Theatre 5.30 & 7.30pm

Norfolk and Norwich Festival 10 - 26 May

orfolk and Norwich Festival is an arts organisation for the East of England with a reputation for innovative, inspirational programming and commissioning. In addition to staging one of the most significant arts festivals in the UK, it collaborates throughout the year with local, national and international partners to produce work for a diverse range of audiences, participants and communities. Norfolk and Norwich Festival Ltd, Augustine Steward House, 14 Tombland, Norwich, Norfolk, NR3 1HF. Tickets: 01603877750.

12 May - The Festival Eucharist, Norwich Cathedral 10am

Exciting Every Day Events...

15 May - Favourite Poem and Own Documentary, Norwich Arts Centre 7.30pm

10 May - The Kindness Of Strangers 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm Experience the curious day life of a paramedic by stepping into an ambulance to see the full spectrum of human experience. 11 May - A High Street Odyssey, Gentleman’s Walk 11am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm, 4pm Strange and epic, A High Street Odyssey will stare deep into the soul of the Great British high street.

A celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Coronation of HM Queen Elizabeth II. 13 May - Live Art Club, Norwich Arts Centre 10pm - Late A place for cutting-edge cross genre performance, art and music. 14 May - Dance Marathon, Epic Studios 7.30pm A high-energy show inspired by the human endurance contests of 1920s and 30s America.

Inspired by the world of early animated film, this show re-imagines the Greek myth of Persephone through puppetry. 20 May - Sam Furness & Matthew Fletcher, The Assembly House 7.29pm Sam Furness’ varied programme of chanson and lieder provides a wonderful overview of 19th-century song. 21 May - Beyond, The Adnams Spiegeltent 7.30pm Circa continue to present the world premiere of their new Spiegeltent show Beyond. 22 May - Eduardo Halfon, The Polish Boxer, Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library 6.30pm The Polish Boxer is from one of the most talked-about new voices, Eduardo Halfon. 23 May - A Moment of Mishearing, Norwich Arts Centre 8pm ‘One of his generation’s best writers’ world renowned novelist Amit Chaudhuri. 24 May - Varmints, Epic Studios 1pm

Nathan Penlington asks you to Choose Your Own Documentary in an interactive experience.

Varmints tells the poignant tale of one small creature’s struggle to preserve a world in danger of being lost forever.

16 May - The Bad Plus, Norwich Playhouse 8pm

25 May - Knol D’Amour, Chapelfield Gardens 12-6pm

The Bad Plus proves that a piano-bassdrums trio can still transport listeners to uncharted places.

The visitor selects a potato and after peeling it, donates it to the Knol.

17 May - Audible Forces, Earlham Park 11am - 5pm Audible Forces show otherworldly sounds

26 May - Festival Chorus, St Andrew’s Hall 7.30pm The Chorus celebrates the 200th anniversary of Verdi’s birth in this magnificent finale. eastlife.co.uk|83

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Beds, Herts, Bucks THEATRE & SHOWS

24 April An Intimate Evening with Ruthie Henshall

1 - 5 April The Mousetrap Agatha Christie’s legendary, record-breaking, Box

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury, 0844 8717607

anniversary with a touring production featuring an all star cast. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 290333

9 - 12 April The Mikado Gilbert &

1 - 5 April Blood Brothers Written by

his lady’s hand while battling jealous lovers and the threat of execution. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 455166

tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to

10 April An Evening with Pasha Kovalev & Katya Virshilas A spectacular new live theatre show featuring two stars

Watford Colosseum, Watford, 0845 0753993

Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 290333

2 - 5 April Bedroom Farce Four couples,

11 April Jimmy Carr

blazing row & an illicit kiss (or two). The Court Theatre @ Pendley, Tring, 07543 560478

national tour. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519

2 April Lee Hurst In his new stand up show, ‘Things That Make You Go the road to ask audiences what winds The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800

13 - 15 April Hansel and Gretel A fairytale. Starring Margi Clarke, JezO! and Hawthorn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 14 - 19 April Derren Brown’s Infamous

3 April Formby

psychological illusion returns to the stage

Rhodes Theatre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 4 April Omid Djalili

again why Derren is one of the world’s Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes, 0844 8717652

residency and a sold-out season at the Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519

14 April Pam Ayres latest show to The Alban Arena following the recent publication of her new book of

4 - 6 April The Gruffalo Tall Stories’ hit

of which she will be signing after the show. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488

winning picture book. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500 5 April Swan Lake One of the best known popular Vienna Festival Ballet. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488

16 April - 3 May An Intervention A touching, funny play about what happens when you hate your best friend. Watford Palace Theatre, Watford, 01923 225671

Arena Tour. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 8 - 10 April Rats’ Tales Brought to life by people, Rats’ Tales is a collection of seven Watford Palace Theatre, Watford, 01923 225671 8 - 12 April Robin Cousins’ ICE Directed and choreographed by Robin Cousins,

25 April - 25 May The Guilty Set in the

Market Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 433553 25 April Alan Davies Following the sell out success of his long-awaited return to stand up, Alan Davies returns with his Victories’. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 26 April Richard Herring Richard encourages the audience that death is inevitable, so let’s laugh in its face while our hearts still beat and our jaws are still attached. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 27 April Wow Here Comes The Girls An

Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 290333 28 April - 3 May Black Coffee play ever written by Agatha Christie, we

Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes, 0844 8717652 28 April - 3 May Buddy A cast of actors

16 - 20 April James and the Giant Peach Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, 0844 8717607

7 April Lee Evans Join record-breaking where he will be trying out brand new

award. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 290333

they travel across the seas in the world’s largest ever Peach! Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200 18 - 21 April Alice in Wonderland An Paul Daniels, Debbie McGee and Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 290333 21 - 26 April Tonight’s The Night The inspired by the songs of Rod Stewart. Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 8717652 22 April The Little Mermaid Join Ballet

29 April - 3 May Annie production. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 30 April - 3 May Illyria High A Big Spirit Youth Theatre prodution based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, 01462 455166 30 April - 1 May Morecambe This Olivier Award winning play stars Bob Golding as Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200

MUSIC 2 April The Manfreds The Manfreds will

Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes, 0844 8717652

favourite story. Grove Theatre, Dunstable 01582 290333

8 April Jon Richardson Nidiot. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 290333

23 April Suggs - My Life Story The

8 - 12 April Dial M for Murder Frederick Knott’s intense and darkly gripping thriller,

Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200

Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200 3 April Chris Norman brings his solo show to The Stables. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800

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Beds, Herts, Bucks 5 April Mic Righteous Live Mic Righteous performing live with support from local rap battle champion LNC and DJs throughout. Second Space, Aylesbury, 0844 8717607 5 April Uttlesforde Orchestra An Italian themed programme consisting of:Tchaikovsky—Francesca da Rimini, Tchaikovsky—Capriccio Italienne, Mendelssohn—Symphony No. 4 “Italian” and Verdi—Sicilian Vespers. Rhodes Theatre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 5 April Israel in Egypt - Handel Presented by the St Albans Bach Choir. St Albans Cathedral, St Albans, 01727 860780 6 April Kate Rusby The folk singer/ songwriter comes to MK. Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes, 0844 8717652 6 April Sandi Thom Spend an evening with the Scottish singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 6 April Alan Williams Alan Williams, front man vocalist/guitarist of 70’s Glam Rock Icons The Rubettes leads you acoustically through his musical life. Second Space, Aylesbury, 0844 8717607 7 April Martha Reeves and the Vandellas In tonight’s show Martha and the Vandellas are backed by a stunning nine-piece band including an amazing four-piece horn section. Bedford Corn Exchange, Bedford, 01234 269519 11 April The Drifters The Optimum Tour, features the current line up Pierre Herelle, Michael Williams, Ryan King and Carlton Powell. Grove Theatre, Dunstable, 01582 290333 11 April The Rat Pack The original British tribute to Frank, Dean and Sammy. Watford Colosseum, Watford, 0845 0753993 11 April UB40 Reggae stars UB40 will perform in Ipswich as part of their biggest UK tour for over three years. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 12 April Carducci Quartet Programme includes works by Haydn, Shostakovich and Beethoven. Hawthorn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 357117 13 April Joe McElderry Acoustic show - Live & Unplugged. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 14 April The High Kings Irish fok band new songs as well as some old favourites. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 20 April Paul Carrack Internationally respected British singer/songwriter Paul Carrack the voice of pop classics such as How Long, Over My Shoulder and many more returns to familiar ground. Milton Keynes Theatre, 0844 8717652 23 April Joe Brown Joe is joined on

his son, in show packed with timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk and rock ‘n’ roll. Alban Arena, St Albans, 01727 844488 24 April Acker Bilk Acker comes to The Stables with his Paramount Jazz Band. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800 24 April Marty Wilde Marty and his fabulous band the Wildcats take you back through some of the most exciting musical times this country has ever experienced. Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, 01438 363200 25 April Think Floyd Floyd Experience. Rhodes Theatre, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 28 April Kyle Eastwood Band Kyle and his band are back at The Stables following a triumphant appearance there in 2013. The Stables, Wavendon, 01908 280800

ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 April - 27 April A National Art: Watercolour and the British Landscape Tradition This exhibition, drawn entirely from the Cecil Higgins Art Gallery collection of works on paper, explores the lanscapes of the great watercolourists of the late 18th and early 19th centuries and counterparts. The Higgins Bedford, Bedford, 01234 718618 1 March - 11 May Bawden’s Britain This exhibition celebrates Edward Bawden’s unique take on Britain and its inhabitants, both human and animal. Bawden’s closely observed depictions of British life show a wit and humour that is unique to the artist. The Higgins Bedford, Bedford, 01234 718618 1 April - 22 June Recording Bedfordshire An opportunity to participate in a season of exhibitions at dedicated to the British landscape. They’re inviting visitors to submit their own A5-sized Bedfordshire landscape creations to form part of an exhibition in the Connections Gallery. The Higgins Bedford, Bedford, 01234 718618 1 - 30 April Making an Impression An exciting printmaking exhibition from the Beds, Bucks and Herts (BBH) Print Society. Hand pulled prints of all techniques that include linocut, screenprint, collagraph, solarprint, etching and drypoint. Rhodes Gallery, Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 651746 1 - 23 April The Art of Poetry An exhibition of work inspired by poetry in a wide range of mediums and styles. Obsidian Art, Stoke Mandeville, 01296 612150 2 - 29 April HUE - Recent work from 10 Contemporary Textile Artists An exhibition of wonderful work in textiles by members of this group that meets at Letchwortth Settlement. Letchworth Arts

Centre, Letchworth Garden City, 01462 670788 24 April - 6 May Edward Robert Hughes - The Last Pre-Raphaelite The artist Edward Robert Hughes worked at the heart of the Pre-Raphaelite circle and was a close associate of many of its major members. St Albans Cathedral, St Albans, 01727 860780 29 April - 24 May Artworks - Vision and Memory An exhibition of paintings and prints from eight artists who met whilst studying at the University of Hertfordshire and formed, with others, the Artworks group. They work independently but over the years have come together to collaborate in workshops and exhibitions. Hertford Gallery, Hertford, 01992 531500

SPECIAL EVENTS 6 April French Market The French traders will be selling products such as : baguettes, croissants , tarts, a wide range of soft and hard cheeses, charcuterie, spices, fruit , nougat, chocolate, Provençal soaps, bags, carpets and baskets. 12 - 13 April East of England Food Festival A celebration of all that is good to eat and drink from across the Eastern Region and far beyond From condiments, artisan cheeses, home cured and fresh meat, dairy products, confectionery, bakery, wine, beer and other drinks, together with cookware and other related products. Cookery star Sophie Grigson is Knebworth House, Knebworth, 01438 812661 20 - 21 April Lee Valley Easter Country Fair All day entertainment will include Birds of Prey Flying Displays, The Goat Show including bottle feeding lambs & kids, Terrier Racing, Equestrian Acrobatics, Motorcycle Stunt Riding, Children’s’ Entertainment, Medieval Village & Fighting Knights with Swords of Chivalry, plus Arts, Crafts & Gift Marquees and outside Trade Stands. Lee Valley Country Park, Waltham Cross 20 April Classic Car Rally and Autojumble An enthusiasts’ paradise at the historic home of the famous Shuttleworth Collection. Classic Cars on display from the 50’s 60’ 70’s 80’s with live commentary throughout the day. Old Warden Aerodrome, Biggleswade 20 April Biggleswade Antiques Fair Over 45 stalls offering a range of antiques from jewellery, glass, china, pictures, postcards, kitchenalia and militaria. The Weatherley Centre, Biggleswade 28 April - 3 May Hertford Theatre Week Hertford Theatre Week is an adjudicated Drama Competition and a qualifying festival for the National Drama Festivals Association All-Winners Festival. Hertford Theatre, Hertford, 01992 531500

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Hertford and Ware

The Grounds are open to the public all year round whilst the Castle building (Gatehouse) is open to the public during Open Days in the summer months.

Things to See Hertford Castle is the best-known link with the town’s past, providing tangible evidence of Hertford’s many connections with England’s Kings and Queens (almost every monarch from Saxon times up to and including Queen Elizabeth I is known to have visited it).

Places to Eat and Stay After a look at the town, Old Siam in Parliament Square is the perfect place to grab dinner. Known for its authentic Thai cuisine, the restaurant has a large menu with a variety of house specials, including honey duck and delicious Thai curries. 6 Parliament Square, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1EY. 01992559999. Hertford House Hotel is family owned and operated, and includes The Chop House restaurant and House Bar. It’s even partnered with a local salon. 1 Fore Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1DA. 01992517440.

estled on the River Lea, Hertford has a rich history dating back to the Normans. Though it is best known for Hertford Castle, there are many other places of great architectural interest and historical importance, including a Norman church, the world’s oldest purpose-built Quaker Meeting House, in addition to shops and other town centre properties that date back over the centuries.

Hertford Ware

The Reverend Samuel Stone

and

he town of Ware has a long and varied history. Archaeology shows that Ware has been occupied since at least the Mesolithic period, and the Romans had a sizeable settlement there. The name of the town itself dates from the Anglo-Saxon period, when weirs were built to stop Viking invaders from escaping in their longships after defeat at the hands of Alfred the Great. Situated on the Old North Road and less than a day’s journey from London, Ware also has historically been an important coaching town. Things to See With such a rich history, it’s no wonder that Ware has a dedicated museum. Established in 1986, it incorporates the

town’s WWII command bunker and a medieval well discovered during the building work. Highlights of the collection on permanent display include Iron Age and Roman pottery, a Roman coffin, and a unique collection of Hitch Patent Bricks.The Priory, High Street, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 9AL. 01920487848. Ware is set in some of the most beautiful countryside in the Home Counties – enjoy an afternoon walk along the River Lea and the New River. The picturesque towpath of the River Lea gives access to Nature Reserves on both sides of town; Rye Meads between Ware and Hertford and the Amwell Nature Reserve, a favourite of bird-watchers nationwide.

Places to Eat and Stay Try something different at Casa Lua, an exciting Spanish restaurant in Ware High Street. Classic and contemporary tapas dishes are the order of the day, as well as seasonal main courses. 64 High Street, Ware, Herts SG12 9DA. 01920463554. Fanhams Hall Hotel is one of the area’s finest places to stay, and represents an exceptional combination of tradition and 21st century comforts. This Jacobean Manor House has been sympathetically converted to provide 77 rooms with contemporary décor, comfortable beds and views over the listed gardens and terraces. Fanhams Grange, Ware, Herts, SG12 7PZ. 01920 460511.

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Uncompromised style and impeccable tasteâ&#x20AC;Ś Just a five minute drive from central Cambridge is the boutique, four star Hotel Felix, a fusion of Victorian elegance and contemporary comfort. Nestle down in luxury in our stylish bedrooms, tickle your taste buds in our award-winning restaurant or relax with a drink in the Orangery or on the tranquil south-facing Terrace.

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HOTEL FELIX | WHITEHOUSE LANE HUNTINGDON ROAD | CAMBRIDGE | CB3 0LX TEL: 01223 277977 EMAIL: help@hotelfelix.co.uk

www.hotelfelix.co.uk

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Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS

Cambridge, 01223 300085

1 - 5 April A Life of Galileo Ian McDiarmid reprises his iconic role as Galileo in the RSC’s critically acclaimed production. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333

18 - 20 April Morecambe This unmissable brand new production of Tim Whitnall’s Olivier Award- winning play, stars the Olivier-nominated Bob Golding as comedy icon, Eric Morecambe. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333

1 - 2 April Russell Brand Russell looks at the importance of heroes in this age of atheistic disposability in his new show, ‘Messiah Complex’. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 4 April Broadway Divas With over 50 wonderful songs from Broadway musicals these ladies have wowed audiences in theatre and concert venues all over the country. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 5 April Alan Davies The stand-up comic brings his latest show ‘Little Victories’ to the Corn Exchange. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 7 - 12 April The Dishwashers David Essex stars in The Dishwashers, the hilarious comedy by the multi-awarding winning playwright Morris Panych. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 7 - 12 April Happy Days A brand new UK tour based on the hit TV series. Starring Ben Freeman, Cheryl Baker and Heidi Range. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 8 - 12 April The Witches of Eastwick Musical comedy based on the hugely Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 8 - 12 April Guys and Dolls Presented by RaTz Youth. Angles Theatre, Wisbech, 01945 474447 9 April Rob Beckett The comedian and his trademark grin will be travelling across the country with his highly anticipated debut UK tour. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511

22 - 24 April The Comedy of Terrors A fast-moving madcap comedy of multiple mistaken identity. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 22 - 26 April Tom’s Midnight Garden The Birmingham Stage Company present this classic story, perfect for the whole family. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 22 - 26 April Barefoot in the Park Simon’s 1963 play was later made into a ADC Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 300085 25 April Nigel Sayer & Friends The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 28 April I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue Multi award-winning antidote to panel games starts an all-new touring stage show, join Barry Cryer, Graeme Garden, Tim Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 29 April - 3 May Spring Awakening Brought bang up to date by young playwright Anya Reiss and director Ben Kidd, this new version examines the exuberance, intensity and confusion of teenage life today. Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333 30 April Square Peg Contemporary Circus: Rime Rime is a new circus show devised and collectively made by Square Peg Contemporary Circus and based on Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s epic poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511

MUSIC

12 April An Evening with Stars from Strictly Come Dancing Starring Pasha Kovalev and Katya Virshilas. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705

3 April Cambridge NADFAS Four Societies Concert An evening with Tom Poster and friends. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184

14 - 15 April Ballet Black Ballet Black are back to offer a brand new triple bill of works by award-winning choreographers Cambridge Arts Theatre, Cambridge, 01223 503333

5 April Big Girls Don’t Cry The sound of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239

15 - 16 April Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play The stars of the hit BBC TV series and books by Lauren Child are brought to life by a magical mix of puppets, live action and music. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 15 - 19 April Guys and Dolls This timeless Broadway hit includes musical classics “Luck Be a Lady” and “Sit Down, You’re Rocking the Boat”. ADC Theatre,

5 April Emily Maguire Emily tours in support of her new album, ‘Bird Inside A Cage’. The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 8 April The Fureys & Davey Arthur Legends of Irish music & song. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 11 April Showaddywaddy The Rock ‘n’ Roll band play all their greatest hits. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705

11 April Dave Swarbrick dler. Cambridge Folk Club at The Golden Hind, Cambridge, 01638 603986 12 April Collegium Laureatum Haydn - Creation. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184 12 April Ely Choral Society This concert will feature two works by Mozart: the Vesperae solennes de confessore and the Requiem Mass in D minor. Ely Cathedral, Ely, 01353 660349 14 April UB40 UB40 play all their hits and some tracks off their latest album ‘Getting Over The Storm’. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 16 April Susan Boyle in Concert The Global singing sensation is returning to the Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 16 April Britten Sinfonia Britten Sinfonia is joined by a stellar line-up of soloists and the Britten Sinfonia Voices to perfrom West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184 17 April The Big Chris Barber Band his 65th Anniversary as band-leader in 2014 with a Europe-wide concert tour. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 18 April British Sea Power The indie The Junction, Cambridge, 01223 511511 18 April Lousie Jordan Acoustic set. Cambridge Folk Club at The Golden Hind, Cambridge, 01638 603986 19 April Marty Wilde Marty makes a welcome return to the Key Theatre, lookyears of Rock and Roll. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 21 April Concert to Celebrate the 60th Birthday of Paul Trepte Ely Cathedral’s birthday with a performance of Haydn’s best known oratorio “The Creation”. The performance will be led by the boys, girls and men of Ely Cathedral Choir. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184 23 April Endellion String Quartet Haydn

West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184 25 April Rodgers and Hammerstein Song Performed by stars from the West End, this truly magical show celebrates the golden age of musical theatre. Key Theatre, Peterborough, 01733 207239 26 April Krista Detor Acoustic Roots at CB2 Basement, Cambridge, 01223

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

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Cambridgeshire 27 April Basel Symphony Orchestra Pärt: These Words, Glass: Cello Concerto No.2 and Adams: Harmonielehre. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Cambridge, 01223 357851 27 April Motown & Philadelphia on Tour Roy G Hemmings and his 15 strong cast present an evening show delivering memoires of a twin era of music. The Cresset, Peterborough, 01733 265705 27 April Travis Logan An evening of Country music. The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 30 April Cambridge International Piano Series Programme includes works by Mozart, Schumann, Beethoven, Brahms and Chopin. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, 01223 335184

ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 - 19 April Chiefs & Governors: Art and Power in Fiji hibition dedicated to Fijian Art outside Fiji. Fijian artefacts, photographs and archives, a collection closely linked to the early colonial history of Fiji and the foundation of the Museum. University Museum of Archaeology & Athropology, Cambridge, 01223 333516 1 April - 11 May From root to tip: Botanical art in Britain together a selection of watercolours from the Fitzwilliam’s outstanding collection of botanical art. It draws on over 300 years of work by both professional and amateur in Britain. Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, 01223 332900 1 - 25 April Perception The Cambridge

Perception, will use illusions to uncover how our senses and brain work and the tricks your brain uses to make sense of the world. Cambridge Science Centre, Cambridge, 01223 967965 1 - 21 April A World of Private Mystery: John Craxton, RA A fresh retrospective a young hope of post-war British art, creating dark, meditative images of the natural world, to works of incredible vibrancy, light and colour from his later life in Crete. Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, 01223 332900 1 - 27 April Treasure From Trash An demonstrates and encourages reusing and upcycling waste products, transforming them into useful artefacts and works of art. Curated by knowtrash – Ruth Thomson, children’s author and educator, photographer. Peterborough Museum, Peterborough, 01733 864663

1 April - 11 May Art & Life: 1920-1931 - Ben Nicholson, Winifred Nicholson, Christopher Wood, Alfred Wallis & William Staite Murray brings together the work of painters Ben and Winifred Nicholson alongside that of their friends and fellow artists Christopher Wood, Alfred Wallis, and the potter William Staite Murray. Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, 01223 748100 1 - 5 April Too Seriousto be Serious renowned sculptor Oliver Barratt and sensational drawings of Mark Cazelet. Lynne Strover Gallery, Fen Ditton, 01223 295264 1 - 21 April The Joy of Prints! The Joy of Prints! CCA teams up with Artizan Editions to showcase Printmaking in all it’s glory. Cambridge Contemporary Art, Cambridge, 01223 324222 1 April - 18 May The Rampant Lions Press: A Letterpress Odyssey Inspired by the venerable tradition of private presses in England, the Rampant Lions Press a designer-printer for other publishers. Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, 01223 332900 1 - 17 April The moving word: French medieval manuscripts in Cambridge A celebration of manuscripts held by the University Library and Cambridge colleges, and a survey of how knowledge travelled in manuscript from aroud Europe and the Mediterranean between 1150 and 1530. Cambridge University Library, Cambridge 1 April - 6 May Great War Between the Lines music, family, British troops in France, the total war, hidden stories and military logistics. Wisbech & Fenland Museum, Wisbech, 01945 583817 1 - 20 April Ted Coney Ted Coney will years he has recorded the joys and sorrows of a bittersweet journey through the lives of several generations of the Coney family. This Spring the Babylon Gallery is delighted to present a retrospective of his work divided into four predominant themes: Birth and Death; Family Traditions; Women and Secrets. Babylon Gallery, Ely 1 April - 31 May Sea Monsters to Sonar: Charting the Polar Oceans bition the gallery space will be transformed into a trail of discovery revealing imagined and established trade routes, and journeys Scott Polar Research Institute, Cambridge, 01223 336540 1 April - 17 May The Cherry - Garrard Letters This collection of letters by Apsley Cherry-Garrard is on temporary loan to

The Polar Museum. Written to his mother 1910–13. Scott Polar Research Institute, Cambridge, 01223 336540 26 April - 26 May Still Life Paintings Cambridge Contemporary Art, Cambridge, 01223 324222

SPECIAL EVENTS 5 - 21 April The Science of D-Day Easter holiday activities looking at the ingenious ensure victory on D-Day. Build your own Bailey bridge and see two real Bailey bridges that are still in use on a daily basis tank, try on some mini-uniforms, make have been used in the preparation for the D-Day Landings and enter a creative competition to design your own specialIWM Duxford, Cambridge, 01223 835000 5 April Easter Craft Fair Over thirty stalls - original prints, bags, children’s clothes, knitted goods, handmade toys, beauty products, cards, jewellery and much more. Ely Cathedral Centre, Ely, 01353 659668 5 - 6 April Antique & Collectors Fair

ornaments and clocks, to furniture and jewellery as well as retro and vintage goodies. Lose yourself in the maze of about each one of their antiques history and origin. Wood Green Animal Shelter, Godmanchester, 01702 549623 18 April Easter Eggstarvaganza A funrefreshments, games, crafts, tombola. The Brook, Soham, 01353 721748 27 April Plant Fair Burwash Manor is preparing to host the Plant Fair for the third year running. A unique fair where all the stalls are staffed by the growers themselves, and as only small, dedicated

unusual specimens and even some plants Burwash Manor, Barton, Cambridge 29 April - 3 May The 46th Cambridge Drama Festival Tragedy, fantasy, history, drama, comedy, social commentary and maybe even Shakespeare brought to you by adult and junior groups from in and around the region. At least two oneact plays each evening plus intriguing theatrical quizzes for the audience and interesting professional critiques of each play by Marie O’ Sullivan from the Guild of Drama Adjudicators. The Festival ends with the presentation of awards to groups and individuals whose work has been outstanding. Mumford Theatre, Cambridge, 0845 1962320

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Ely

ELY FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL 2-5 May 2014

Don’t miss the first Ely Food and Drink Festival, located on Palace Green under the gaze of the magnificent Ely Cathedral in the heart of this historic city. The festival is part of Ely’s established Eel Festival Weekend running from 2 - 5 May organised by the Tourism Team at East Cambridgeshire. The Festival weekend kicks off on Friday 2 May with the launch of the Eel Food Safari, where a variety of venues will be providing eel inspired dishes and menus throughout the weekend. Saturday sees the famous Eel Day Parade – a colourful, musical procession from the City Centre to the riverside, where a host of activities are held including the World Eel Throwing Championships and the Town Crier Competition. The Food Festival itself will take place on Sunday and Monday and will feature a Food Marquee, The Street Food Place and the Flower, Food and Craft Market. As well as some large exhibitions from local producers, they have a fantastic line up of chef demonstrations running throughout the Festival with some well known names soon to be announced! All the key artisan, specialist food and drink traders will be housed in their large Food Marquee providing lots of expert advice, information and tantalising tasters. Outside, The Street Food Place allows for discovery of a wide range of expertly cooked and served food. The Festival will be supported by the well established Flower, Food and Craft Market, a regular feature in Ely on bank holiday weekends, now in a new location for this weekend only, showcasing some of the best local produce and crafts in the area. Further entertainment will be available throughout the city on the Sunday and Monday including a Fun Fair on Ely’s Market Place and historical walks from Ely Tourist Information Centre. For information on all these activities and many other fringe events keep checking out the Eel Festival Weekend page at www.visitely.org.

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Ely

Explore

estled in the Fen countryside, this small city in East Cambridgeshire is your ideal day visit or short break location. Ely has the major tourist locations of Cambridge and Newmarket on its doorstep at the same time as being only an hour away from London by rail and only two hours away from the Norfolk Coast by car. Not forgetting of course the numerous small villages and towns in between that each have their own individual characteristics to offer. Ely makes for an ideal base for exploring the area. Things to See Ely Cathedral is Ely’s top tourist attraction and it is easy to see why. Look in awe at this 12th century building in your own time, or take advantage of a more informative experience by having a guided tour. Tours also include optional visits to the Octagon and/or Lantern Towers, where the spectacular view makes it well worth the climb! Ely Cathedral, The College, Ely, Cambs CB7 4DL, 01353667735. Ely’s most famous resident is Oliver Cromwell, so why not visit his only remaining home? The former Lord Protector lived with his family in Ely for just over 10 years and the house has been transformed to give you an insight into 17th century life. Audio tours bring the story of this fascinating building to life. Oliver Cromwell’s House, 29 St Mary’s Street, Ely, Cambs CB7 4HF. 01353662062.

Ely Cathedral

The Stained Glass Museum is a hidden treasure within Ely Cathedral. An independent museum, it is the only museum dedicated to stained glass in the country. A display of over 100 original stained glass panels dating from the early 13th century to the present, including work by William Morris, John Piper and Brian Clarke. The Stained Glass Museum, Ely Cathedral, The College, Ely, Cambs CB7 4DL. 01353660347. Following The Eel Trail is an excellent way of seeing historic Ely at its best. This circular walk self-guided by brass waymarkers set in the ground takes you past the oldest parts of Ely with its beautiful monastic buildings and stunning architecture. The trail starts at Oliver Cromwell’s House, then takes you into the heart of the city centre and down to the Waterside to Ely’s Babylon Gallery where the second piece of art is depicted in the glass door entrance off the river. For more information call 01353662062. Food & Drink The Boathouse is a contemporary, airy restaurant on the riverfront in Ely. The beautiful location makes it one of the most attractive places to eat in Cambridgeshire. The chefs can be seen at work creating imaginative food worthy of the surrounding while the restaurant suits all occasions. The Boathouse, 5-5a Annesdale, Ely, Cambs, CB7 4BN, 01353664388. The Maltings is idyllically located on the

banks of the Great River Ouse. The restaurant offers contemporary British food with a Mediterranean twist. The bar also has a sun terrace to enjoy the halcyon summer afternoons watching wildlife and the world pass by. The Maltings, Ship Lane, Ely CB7 4BB, 01353662633. The Cutter Inn is a traditional riverside bar offering quality food to suit all tastes and a wide choice of cask ales. 42 Annesdale, Ely, Cambs CB7 4BN. 01353662713. Places to Stay The Nyton is situated in a quiet residential area within 2 acres of attractive grounds adjoining the popular 18 hole Ely golf course. 9 bedrooms overlook the unique fenland countryside and historic Ely Cathedral, and each is comfortably furnished and decorated to a high standard with en-suite facilities. Its superb location is perfect for exploring the city. Return to a relaxing drink in the hotel’s oak panelled bar. 7 Barton Road, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4HZ, 01353662459. The Lamb Hotel Ely sits in the heart of the city in the shadows of the cathedral’s splendid tower. The hotel dates back to the 15th century when it existed as a coaching inn. The Lamb has 31 comfortable en suite rooms. The beautiful feature suite has a four poster bed and is perfect for a special occasion. 2 Lynn Rd Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4EJ. 01353663574.

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Oliver Cromwell’s House

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The Stained Glass Museum The South Triforium, Ely Cathedral, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4DL

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www.stainedglassmuseum.com T: 01353 660347 Registered Charity No. 274776

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ELY CATHEDRAL SPRING CONCERTS www.elycathedral.org

BACH’S ST. JOHN PASSION The Bishop’s Consort Sunday 6 April, 6.00pm

HAYDN’S THE CREATION

Ely Cathedral Choirs & Guests Monday 21 April, 7.30pm

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

Cambridge Voices Saturday 24 May, 7.30pm

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Essex THEATRE & SHOWS 1 - 5 April Betty Blue Eyes This updated production, directed by Daniel Buckroyd, marries Alan Bennett’s hilarious story with a wonderfully witty musical score that’s guaranteed to send you home with a spring in your step. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 1- 2 April The Gruffalo Don’t miss Tall Stories’ hit musical stage adaptation of the award winning picture book. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 2 - 3 April Frank Skinner Following a sell-out London run comedy legend Frank Skinner takes his brand new show, ‘Man in a Suit’, to venues nationwide. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 2 - 5 April La Cage Aux Folles La Cage aux Folles is the glamorous musical, it depicts the farcical chaos that results when a gay man attempts to pose as straight for Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 3 April Inspector Norse Nordic Noir comedy featuring a knitted set, a seventies pop band and drunken moose. Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 4 April Emily - The Making of a Militant Sufragette This is the story of Emily Wilding Davidson’s life and the events that lead to her untimely end. Dixon Studio, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 4 April An Evening of Burlesque Enjoy a riotous romp into the bizarre world of burlesque and cutting-edge variety. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 7 - 12 April Edinburgh Previews Ed Gamble & Paul McCaffrey (7 April), Steve Hall & Jarlath Regan (8 April), Tiff Stevenson & Tom Craine (9 April), Hayley Ellis & Mark Smith (10 April), Kate Mulgrew & David Trent (11 April) and Ahir Shah & WitTank (12 April). Dixon Studio, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 7 - 13 April The Wizard of Oz An Easter pantomime. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 8 - 12 April Moon on a Rainbow Shawl Talawa Theatre Company and the National Theatre take Errol John’s ‘bruising, brilliantly witty play’ (Time Out) on tour after its critically acclaimed run in London in 2012. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948

Sesame Street for adults. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 11 April Cinderella Perfromed by the Vienna Festival Ballet. Princes Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 686633 11 April - 3 May The Great Gatsby F. Scott Fitzgerald’s much-loved book set in the roaring 20s is brought to life. Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333

creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before, up close and personal! Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 22 - 23 April Sarah Millican Join Sarah for some hilarious domestic bliss in her brand new show, ‘Home Bird’. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 22 - 26 April King Lear An amateur production. Dixon Studio, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135

11 - 12 April Peer Divided Ibsen’s epic drama is beautifully re-told in a fast paced mix of movement, music, devising and original text. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948

23 April Suggs - My Life Story The Madness frontman takes to the stage in a hilarious, yet moving, one man show. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505

12 April The Just So Stories Red Table Theatre brings four of Rudyard Kipling’s best-beloved tales to vivid life. Braintree Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01376 556354

23 - 26 April Cymbeline Virtuous heroine, wicked stepmother, poison, cross-dressing - It’s Shakespeare, the panto! Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305

13 April Russell Brand Russell looks at the importance of heroes in this age of atheistic disposability in his new show, ‘Messiah Complex’. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135

24 April La Boheme Directed by Ellen Kent, featuring the celebrated Chisinau National Opera & Philharmonic Orchestra with international soloists. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135

13 April Jon Richardson Nidiot. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505

24 - 26 April England Away Stand up comic Eddy Brimson offers a funny, hard-hitting insight on English society, football and comedy today. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948

13 April Jim Davidson & Richard Digance Davidson and Digance team up for a limited tour this Spring in ‘Together Again’. Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 14 April Fascinating Aida Dillie Keane, Adele Anderson and Liza Pulman celebrate 30 years of Fascinating Aïda with a brand new show, ‘ Charm Offensive’. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 15 - 19 April Fiddler on the Roof Starring Paul Michael Glaser (Starsky in the iconic 70s TV series Starsky & Hutch) in the lead role of Tevye. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 16 April Lee Evans Join Lee Evans for these very special shows where he will be trying out brand new material for his forthcoming Monsters Arena Tour. Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 17 - 19 April Live, Love, Dance Presented by The Morgan Academy of Perfroming Arts. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 17 - 20 April Snow White Join Snow White in one of the nation’s favourite legendary tales, as she tries to escape her evil stepmother. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945

9 April Jethro Cornish comedy legend Jethro is back, as large as life, and on tour in 2014 with his very own unique brand of irresistible West Country tales for a funCliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135

20 April Jimmy Cricket One of the nation’s much loved comedians Jimmy Cricket returns to the West Cliff theatre with a show where the audience will feature prominently. West Cliff Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 433344

9 - 12 April Avenue Q Avenue Q is part

21 April Dinosaur Zoo Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric

25 April The World’s Worst Serial Killers Trevor Marriott, retired murder squad detective reveals the true stories behind some of the world’s worst serial killers. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 25 April Killing Roger Using stunning lifesized puppetry and original live music, this new play raises important questions in a moving and humorous tale of an old man and a boy at opposite ends of their lives. Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 25 April Fitzrovia Radio Hour Recreating the unique spirit of 1940’s radio plays and brilliantly evoking a dinner-jacketed age of casual imperialism and stiff upper lips. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 25 April Austenatious: An Improvised Novel A comedy play spun in the inimitable style of Jane Austen – and based entirely on audience suggestions. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 27 April An Evening with Pasha Kovalev & Katya Virshilas A spectacular new live theatre show featuring two stars from the hit show ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 27 April Sherlock Holmes Pantaloons Theatre Company put dynamic detective duo Holmes and Watson through their cases yet in this delightfully inventive and hilarious show. Braintree Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01376 556354

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Essex 29 April Lady Windermere’s Fan Oscar Wilde’s satire. Brentwood Theatre, Brentwood, 01277 200305 29 April - 3 May The Odd Couple A female adaptation by Neil Simon of his own hit comedy. Dixon Studio, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 29 April Morecambe This unmissable brand new production of Tim Whitnall’s Olivier Award- winning play, stars the Olivier-nominated Bob Golding as comedy icon, Eric Morecambe. Harlow Playhouse, Harlow, 01279 431945 29 April - 3 May Our Country’s Good The true story of a ragbag cast of convicts, who put on a play under the guidance of Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 30 April Mitch Benn Is The 37th Beatle Mitch’s new show combines his Scouse upbringing with his love of music and a lifelong obsession with Liverpool’s most famous sons. Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505

MUSIC 5 April Maddy Prior in Concert Maddy performs the folk music of England. Cramphorn Theatre, Chelmsford, 01245 606505 5 April Showaddywaddy The Rock ‘n’ Roll band play all their greatest hits. Princes Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 686633 5 April Charlie Landsborough Charlie Landsborough brings his own inimitable brand of country/spiritual music to the West Cliff Theatre. West Cliff Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 433344 5 April Andy Fairweather Low & The Lowriders Andy is joined on stage by Dave Bronze - Bass & Vocals, Paul Beavis - Drums and Nick Pentelow - Sax & Clarinet. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 6 April Mississippi Swamp Dogs The Mississippi Swamp Dogs perform a rich variety of music from the Crescent City and the American South. Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333

Tour’. Princes Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 686633 12 April Russell Watson Russell’s tour features brand new songs, written by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil, the writers of ‘Les Misérables’ and ‘Miss Saigon’. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 13 April Peter Donohue Schumann: Abegg Variations, Schubert: 4 Impromptus Opus 142, Brahms: Drei Klavierstucke Opus 117 and Liszt: Sonata in B minor. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 17 April The Manfreds The Manfreds will be performing many of their biggest hits along with a mix of solo hits and jazz and rhythm’n’blues renditions. West Cliff Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 433344 18 April Forever in Blue Jeans Tribute show featuring all classic hits from the 80s. Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333 22 April Roddy Woomble The Idlewild frontman heads out on a solo tour this Spring. Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900 24 April The Real Thing The three original vocalists, Chris and Eddie Amoo and Dave Smith perform with their own includes all their hits. Palace Theatre, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135 24 April Pasadena Roof Orchestra Featuring all time classics from Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire, Duke Ellington, Cole Porter and George Gershwin. Mercury Theatre, Colchester, 01206 573948 25 April Ultimate Madness vs Ska 2 Tone Revue Tribute show. Braintree Arts Theatre, Braintree, 01376 556354 26 April Jonathan Ansell The former tenor of G4 brings his solo tour to the Princes Theatre. Princes Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 686633 28 April The Askew Sisters Folk music Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester, 01206 500900

6 April The Move Featuring Bev Bevan and Trevor Burton. Empire Theatre, Halstead, 07778 025490

29 April Under African Skies Paul Simon tribute show. West Cliff Theatre, Clacton-on Sea, 01255 433344

8 April Adriano Adewale Group Percussionist Adriano returns to the Queen’s with his own group with a blend of jazz, African and Brazilian music. Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, 01708 443333

30 April Yes The band will perform three

10 April UB40 Reggae stars UB40 will perform in Southend as part of their biggest UK tour for over three years. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135

ART & EXHIBITIONS

12 April Joe McElderry Don’t miss the X Factor winner in his ‘Set Your Soul Alive

Album’, ‘Close to the Edge’ and ‘Going for the One’, in their entirety. Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 351135

1 April - 31 May Accessorise All Areas The collections of Colchester and Ipswich Museums featured in this exhibition give an insight into the accessories that were used for both fashion and function by men

and women to complete their appearance. Holytrees Museum, Colchester, 01206 282940 1 April - 1 June Simon Denny The Personal Effects of Kim Dotcom. Colchester, 01206 577067 1 April - 1 June

exploring the complex ways in which the media and technology have shaped the native country, the former Yugoslavia. 1 April - 1 June Henri Chopin dans l’Essex The exhibition features works on paper, publications, prints and other ephemera produced during the period that Chopin lived in Essex (1968 to 1985). 3 April - 11 May A Journey Through Painting An exploration of abstraction with beginnings in landscape by Martin Walton. The Gallery, Harlow, 01279 426042 5 April - 19 July Photographers in Southend: 1870 - 1970 Using images taken by professional photographers living within the Borough, this exhibition charts the changing face of Southend over a 100 year period. Central Museum, Southend-on-Sea, 01702 434449 5 April - 24 May Pushing Boundaries Exhibition featuring challenging creations, where convention is questioned, colour exploited and the various media used most imaginatively. Aubrey Art Gallery, Great Dunmow, 01371 873133 20 April - 13 July Bernard Cheese - A Quiet Humour A retrospective exhibition of this popular and accessible artist. Fry Art Gallery, Saffron Walden, 01799 513779

SPECIAL EVENTS 5 - 21 April Easter- Treasure Hunt The Easter Bunnies have been busy at Marks Hall, can you follow their clues and Marks Hall Visitor Centre Coggeshall 26 - 27 April Spring Plant Fair Organised by ‘Plant Heritage’ this relaxed and informal table-top plant fair gives you the opportunity to stock up on plants for the season ahead. A must for garden lovers of all ages. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Chelmsford, 0845 2658071 26 - 27 April Colchester Town & Country Show With something for everyone, from Equestrian Acrobatics, Working Dogs, Knights of Honour Medieval Village dren’s farm and childrens’ entertainer and Circus Workshop, Terriers display team, Birds of Prey Flying Display. Lower Castle Park, Colchester

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East Life - Apr14_Layout 1 19/03/2014 12:35 Page 1

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Chelmsford

Check Out

he city of Chelmsford was born in 1199 when the Bishop earned the right to hold a weekly market. Chelmsford quickly grew into a busy place with help from the train station, the cathedral, museum and The High Chelmer Shopping Centre. It makes for a wonderfully dynamic place to visit.

Things to See Hylands House is a stunning Grade II listed property, spectacularly restored to its former glory and situated in 574 acres of historic landscaped parkland. With events and shows on all year round, it is the perfect day out for all the family. Hylands Park, London Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8WQ. 01245605500. Chelmsford Museum is set in a lovely victorian house in Oaklands Park. There are temporary exhibitions and family activities such as interactive displays and dressing up activities, along with special events and open days such as the Wildlife Fun Day. Check out www. chelmsford.gov.uk/museums or call 01245605700 for more information. Chelmsford Theatres offer entertainment to the people of Essex and beyond. Situated in the heart of Chelmsford’s West End, the Civic and Cramphorn Theatres provide entertainment including concerts, plays, ballet, pantomime, opera, jazz,

dance, musicals, comedy, film, live music and children shows. Civic Centre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1JG. 01245606505. Food & Drink The Riverside Inn serves traditional British cuisine with a modern twist and a changing menu depending on seasonality. The menu offers something for everyone, from gourmet burgers and steaks to bangers and mash and homemade cheesecake for dessert. Victoria Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 6LJ. 01245266881. Indulge in a Sunday carvery at The County Hotel. Their classic British food is presented in a modern style, using only the best of British seasonal ingredients from locally sourced produce. 29 Rainsford Rd, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 2PZ. 01245455700. Places to Stay The South Lodge Hotel offers guests a variety of room sizes, equipped with an en-suite plus tea and coffee- making facilities. The stylish executive rooms include a flat screen TV and fitted furniture, making the accommodation popular with tourists and those looking for the perfect place to stay on holiday in this beautiful town. 196 New London Rd, Chelmsford, CM2 0AR. 01245 264564.

Hylands House

Oak Lodge Bed and Breakfast is set in one acre of beautiful landscaped gardens in the village of Writtle, three miles outside of the bustling city of Chelmsford. Oak Lodge is within walking distance to Writtle village, Writtle Agricultural College, Hylands Park and the many great pubs of Chelmsford, making it the perfect place to stay in order to explore the city. 275 Ongar Rd, Writtle, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 3NT. 01245421452. Chelmsford Events Now in its ninth year, The 3foot People Festival will take place from the 24 – 26 June at Hylands Park. Thousands of preschool children will experience a world of wonder in this unique festival village of tents, teepees and domes. The Fling Festival of Assorted Amusements will take place at Hylands Park on Saturday 28 June. This exclusive adult’s only festival will surprise with stages dedicated to cabaret, music, dance, DJs, poetry, comedy, silent disco and curious sideshows. Boys Toys held at Hylands Park on 15 June is the biggest Fathers Day event in Essex. If you, your dad, your kids or other half have a love for adrenaline and engine based attractions then this is the event for you. Check out www.chelmsford. gov.uk/events.

Shire Hall

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Gosfield School EstablishEd 1929

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Gosfield

EXPLORE THE CHARMING VILLAGE OF GOSFIELD

Places to Visit

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Suffolk THEATRE & SHOWS 1 - 2 April Dinosaur Zoo Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before, up close and personal! Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 1April The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik: Deep Sea Explorer A tiny tale set in the deepest dark blue sea, of a solitary explorer with a heart as big as a whale. Seagull 1 - 5 April Miss Nightingale - The Musical A glorious show, where saucy humour highlights a moving tale of love, loss and hope. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 3 April Emily - The Making of a Militant Sufragette This is the story of Emily Wilding Davidson’s life and the events that lead to her untimely end. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 3 April Macbeth The Blue Orange Theatre presents William Shakespeare’s Macbeth as part of their 2014 national tour. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 4 April Boothby Graffoe: Scratch! Join Arch-Surrealist Boothby Graffoe for a typically skewed looked at the weird little world of the UK lottery scratch card. 4 April Linda Rowntree An evening of mediumship. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 4 April The Men of Boylesque This almost all male cast will entertain you for an evening of glamour and hilarity. Circle Lounge at Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 4 April Romeo & Juliet The Yakety Yak Young Actors Company performs this Elizabethan tragedy with all the gusto of youth in an imaginative and exciting adaptation. The Cut, Halesworth, 0845 6732123 4 April Finding Home Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen fairytales, DanceEast’s projection and live dance. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 6 April The Marriage of Figaro Swansea City Opera are known throughout the UK for their sparkling performances of comic opera and their Figaro will be no exception. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 8 - 12 April Translations Farm-girl Máire of the local school teacher and the love of a British soldier, resulting in a clash of two worlds threatens the very heart of the community as they struggle to interpret a new language and each other. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 9 - 12 April Jesus Christ Superstar Join the Ipswich Operatic and Dramatic

Society for this amateur production of the rock opera based on the last week of Jesus’ life. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 10 - 12 April Gary Trotter and his 11 inch Wand: Part Two With Voldemort seemingly defeated from a bullet to the face, will Gary Trotter see less of the numerous plot holes, awkward silences and LOL moments during his last three years at Hogwarts? Seagull Theatre, 10 April An Evening with Sunny Ormonde Sunny has been playing Lilian Bellamy in Radio 4’s The Archers for the all the behind the scenes stories about the World’s longest running soap opera. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 11 April Second Best Bed Liz Grand stars as Anne Hathaway on the night of Shakespeare’s funeral. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 11 April A Celebration of Anger. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 12 - 13 April The Comedy of Errors Shakespeare’s farcical comedy of mistaken identity, jealousy, demonic possession and a multitude of errors is brought to the stage this Spring by the Theatre Royal’s Community Company. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 12 April Dos Ramas Flamenco show featuring Jairo Barrull and Manuela Vargas. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 15 - 19 April Betty Blue Eyes This updated production, directed by Daniel Buckroyd, marries Alan Bennett’s hilarious story with a wonderfully witty musical score that’s guaranteed to send you home with a spring in your step. New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 15 April Suggs - My Life Story The Madness frontman takes to the stage in a hilarious, yet moving, one man show. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 16 April La Boheme Directed by Ellen Kent, featuring the celebrated Chisinau National Opera & Philharmonic Orchestra with international soloists. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 16 April Julie Madly Deeply Starring Sarah-Louise Young. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 16 - 19 April Julius Caesar and Anthony & Cleopatra An experimental presentation with each Shakespearean play condensed to around seventy minutes. Seagull The19 April The Comedy of Terrors! A fast-moving madcap comedy of multiple mistaken identity. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 22 - 26 April Birdsong Marking the 100th

anniversary of the start of the First World War, Birdsong is the stage show based on the world famous novel by Sebastian Faulks. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 23 - 26 April Blackadder Goes Forth Join the Seagull Rep as they recreate Blackadder live on stage. Seagull Theatre, 23 April - 3 May Tom This play with live rock and roll music tells the story of the blossoming talent of Tom Jones who sang in pubs and clubs up and down the valleys of South Wales until his big break with It’s Not Unusual in 1965! New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 24 April The World’s Worst Serial Killers Trevor Marriott, retired murder squad detective reveals the true stories behind some of the world’s worst serial killers. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 24 April - 3 May The Elephant Man Visual theatre company Gecko collaborate with the acclaimed New Wolsey Young Company to present Bernard Pomerance’s celebrated hit play. New Wolsey Studio Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 295900 24 - 26 April Grease Presented by the Fisher Theatre Group. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 25 April Viva La Drag! Viva la Drag! charts the rise from rags to the queens of drag of an all-male/female close harmony group. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 26 April Sherlock Holmes Pantaloons Theatre Company put dynamic detective duo Holmes and Watson through their case yet. St Peter’s by the Waterfront, Ipswich, 01473 433100 26 April Derek Acorah Medium show. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 27 April Steve Hewlett & Friends Ventriloquist Steve and his cast of zany characters, along with illusionist Richard show on the road to delight and amaze the whole family. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 28 April - 3 May Blood Brothers Written by Willy Russell, a captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 29 April - 3 May Jekyll & Hyde A musical thriller based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 769505 29 - 30 April The Devil at Midnight Talking Scarlet present this spine-tingling, morally searching and topical thriller. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200

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Suffolk MUSIC 2 April Russell Watson in Concert Russell’s tour features brand new songs, written by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil, the writers of ‘Les Misérables’ and ‘Miss Saigon’. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 4 April Absolution Blues band. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 5 April UB40 Reggae stars UB40 will perform in Ipswich as part of their biggest UK tour for over three years. Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 5 April City of London Sinfonia The around South America, with the second half devoted to John Tavener’s wonderful “Protecting Veil”. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 5 April Unforgettable A tribute to Nat King Cole. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745 5 April Cory Band From the Rhondda band returns to Ipswich. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 01473 433100

1 - 17 April Two Talented Ladies A 18 April Gabrielle Ducomble vocalist will be accompanied by Benet McLean. Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130

er Michelle Holmes and painter Carol Saunderson. Sea Pictures Gallery, Clare, 01787 279024

18 April The Rat Pack The original British

1 - 3 April Ron Hurlock An exhibition of abstract & contemporary paintings by Ron Snape Maltings, Snape, 01728 688303

and Sammy Davis Jnr celebrates with a 15th Anniversary tour. Quay Theatre, Sudbury, 01787 374745

1 - 3 April Derek Woolston

19 April Feast of Fiddles Be prepared for laughter, tears, dancing and an allround evening of fabulously entertaining live music. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 24 April Joe Brown

Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 01473 433100 25 April The Moulettes The Moulettes match exquisite female harmony vocals

Snape Maltings, Snape, 01728 -

ing violin, cello and bassoon. Cult Café Bar, Ipswich, 01473 433100 26 April Trianon Music Group A proof the formation of the Trianon singers fea-

6 April Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham Scotland’s best loved traditional musicians come to The Apex. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000

tunes. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 01473 433100

8 April Martha Reeves and the Vandellas In tonight’s show Martha and the piece band including an amazing 4 piece horn section. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 11 April Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 11 April Mokoomba Rising stars from Zimbabwe with their enthusiastically eclectic mix of pan-African styles and Tonga rhythms. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000 11 April European Union Chamber Orchestra by Handel, Mozart and Haydn. Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, 01502 533200 12 April T.Rextasy Tribute show. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 01473 433100 12 April The Dansette Days Billy Fury tribute show. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140 16 April Escher Quartet & Benjamin Grosvenor by Mendelssohn, Schubert, Gounod and The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 01284 758000

4 - 6 April Angela Harding & Emma Mitchell A celebration of British birds, their song and habitats through linocut and tiny, wearable silver sculptures. Snape Maltings, Snape, 01728 688303 10 - 23 April Artisans East Exhibition

5 April The Real Thing The 70s soul band sing all their classics. Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill, 01440 714140

6 April Tasmin Little & Piers Lane Afternoon violin recital. Old Granary Studio, Toft Monks, 01502 679088

landscapes. The Cut Gallery, Halesworth, 0845 6732123

for choir and orchestra, as well as three

ART & EXHIBITIONS 1 April - 4 May Once Upon A Time This trators of East Anglia. Ipswich Art School, Ipswich, 01473 433681 1 April - 31 May Brewer’s Map of Sudbury Sudbury is wonderfully brought to life in an extraordinary contemporary picture of the town: Brewer’s Map of Sudbury as it appeared in 1714. To celebrate the tercentenary of its creation, Brewer’s Map will be exhibited at Gainsborough’s House. Gainsborough’s House, Sudbury, 01787 372958 1 April - 31 May Grand Collection: Richard Wilson and Masterworks from The Ford Collection This exhibition is a treat for all those interested in English landscape painting, great collecting, drawing and the Grand Tour. It showcases paintings and drawings from the Ford fam-

688303 24 - 30 April Six Plus One Exhibition Exhibition themed “mostly women”. Snape Maltings, Snape, 01728 688303 26 April - 9 June Printworks IV A comprehensive exhibition on the art of Sea Pictures Gallery, Clare, 01787 279024

SPECIAL EVENTS 9 April Bonhams Valuations Bonhams invites you to meet their Art and Antiques specialist who will be available to offer free Fisher Theatre, Bungay, 01986 897130 10 - 19 April High Tide Festival HighTide Festival Theatre is one of the UK’s leading producers of new plays, and the only professional theatre focused on the production of new playwrights. The Cut, 13 April Classic Vehicle Road Run The Halesworth to Snape Maltings Classic Vehicle Road Run will arrive at Snape Maltings at around 11.45am. On display will be a very eclectic mix of vehicles from pre-war Austins and Morrises to Rileys, Wolseleys and various other British and vintage military vehicles. Snape Maltings, Snape, 01728 688 303 18 - 20 April The Suffolk Spring Garden Show Discover hundreds of high quality shopping stands selling everything for

the renowned art historian and collector Gainsborough’s House, Sudbury, 01787 372958 1 April - 27 July Escape to the Country This exhibition follows the people who left the city rat race to start new lives in rural Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket, 01449 612229

furniture, to hot-tubs, tools and buildings. This year also introduces an enormous range of attractions and demonstrations revolved around gardening, so that you Trinity Park, Ipswich, 01473 726847

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This quiet, hideaway in the countryside is perfect for a relaxing self catering break for couples or groups of friends The four, adults only, log cabins each feature two large stylish en-suite bedrooms, hot tubs and a dining deck over the water Ideally located for golf, walking, cycling, trips to Constable country and the stunning Suffolk coast

Luxury Lakeside Log Cabins

Full Page.indd 1 Suffolk Escape.indd 1

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Hadleigh

History & Hospitality

pretty little Suffolk market town close to the Essex border, Hadleigh is brimming with history and character, made evident in its abundant listed buildings. Once a Viking royal town and later a hub of the burgeoning wool trade, it is home to some fantastic architecture, most notably in and around the High Street, Benton Street, George Street and the Market Place, where you’ll find many traditional timber-framed and colour-washed plasterwork buildings. Picturesque St Mary’s Church with its stunning lead steeple has attracted the attention of painters including Gainsborough, Turner and Constable. Adjacent to the church lies the fabulous red-brick Deanery Tower - the only remnant of Hadleigh Palace and the magnificent 15th century timber-framed Guildhall. Things to See Hadleigh Guildhall is a medieval timber-framed complex, Grade I listed and dating back to the 15th century. There is a timbered guildroom, an old town hall which has a fine crown-post roof, a Georgian assembly room and a

Victorian ballroom. Market Place, Hadleigh.01473822544. Ancient woodland used to cover much of East Anglia. RSPB Wolves Wood is one of the few remaining areas, managed by traditional coppicing to benefit a variety of wildlife. Hadleigh 01473328006. Shopping Beautifully packaged chocolates are carefully hand-made by a team of chocolate fanatics at Hadleigh Maid Chocolates. A must for all sweet teeth. 35 George Street, Hadleigh 01473822305. www.hadleighmaid.com. Hollow Trees Farm Shop is Les Routier accredited and has been established for 20 years. You’ll find local meats including kid meat from their own goats - and home-reared beef, pork and lamb. Treat yourself to locally baked breads and carrot cakes, home grown vegetables, and much more. There’s also a farm trail that takes you through the fields and livestock sheds, and a café. Semer, near Hadleigh. 01449741247. www.hollowtrees. co.uk.

Food & Drink Housed in a beautiful 15th century building with wooden floors, beams and leaded windows, Crabtree’s offers award-winning, freshly ground coffee and a menu featuring fresh, local ingredients. The cafe regularly plays host to live music events. 66 High Street, Hadleigh, IP7 5EF. 01473828166. Situated on the high street of this historic market town, The Kings Head serves the finest fish in Suffolk. It provides a good choice of dishes ranging from sea bass fillet to a king prawn curry. 90 High St, Hadleigh, Suffolk, IP7 5EF. 01473828855. The China Garden Restaurant has plenty of choice for special diets including vegetarian dishes. The team of chefs specialise in their individual finest Cantonese and Thai cuisines. 117-119 High Street, Hadleigh, Suffolk, IP7 5EJ. 01473828838. Dining experiences at The George range from a full rack of bbq ribs with spicy wedges to the slightly more creative grilled goats’ cheese filo parcels, all at reasonable prices. The George, 52 High St, Hadleigh, IP7 5AL. 01473822151.

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Lowest oft

Lowestoft

Abundant History by the beautiful Suffolk coast

Lowestoft Town Hall

owestoft is a port town that developed due to the fishing industry, and also a traditional seaside resort with wide, sandy beaches, two piers and plenty of attractions. Due to the discovery of flint tools in the cliffs at Pakefield, human habitation in Lowestoft can be traced back around 700,000 years. It was settled during the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages, as well as the Roman and Saxon periods. In 1665, the Battle of Lowestoft took place 40 miles off the coast of the town, resulting in an English victory over the Dutch. During the second half of the 18th century a factory in Lowestoft produced soft porcelain goods, some of which still exist, collected at the museum in Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad and the Castle Museum, Norwich. Things to See Lowestoft and East Suffolk Maritime Heritage Museum was established in 1968 and extended in 1978 (the extension being opened by His Royal Highness The Duke Of Edinburgh). The museum specialises in the history of the Lowestoft fishing fleet and other commercial activities, from the early days of sail, to steam, through to modern diesel vessels. The town’s wartime association with the Royal Navy is also explored, together with a fine exhibition of the evolution of lifeboats. There are fine collections of

shipmodels and maritime art, and an interesting collection of shipwrights’ and coopers’ tools. Sparrows Nest Park, Whapload Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR32 1XG. 01502561963. Pleasurewood Hills is a theme park which comprises a variety of attractions, including three rollercoasters. Leisure Way, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR32 4TZ. 01502586000. The East Anglia Transport Museum is an open-air museum featuring a large collection of historic public transport vehicles. Chapel Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 8BL. 01502518459. Places to Eat and Stay The Third Crossing is a seafood and steak restaurant in Oulton Broad, serving fresh fish and seafood, as well as organic meat from local sources. The menu also caters for vegetarians. School Road, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 9NB. 01502583596. Set in 50 acres of gardens and woodland and featuring a freshwater lake, Warner Gunton Hall Coastal Village has its own classic British restaurant The Rosewood and plenty of amenities. There are a number of activities to keep you occupied during your stay, including air rifle shooting and archery, shuffleboard, fishing and much more. There is also a leisure club complete with sauna, gym and swimming pool. Gunton Avenue, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR32 5DF. 01502730288.

LOWESTOFT ARTS CENTRE A community gallery and arts centre providing exhibition and studio space for its members and others. The permanent changing display shows working in a wide range of disciplines. This is complemented by a monthly ‘artist of the month’ exhibition. In future months these are: March – Paintings and drawings by Jan and Brian Lacey April – Paintings and fused glass work by Carolyn Reeder May – Photographs by John Pitts July - open ‘Maritime foot square’ exhibition.

The gallery is open 10am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday. Lowestoft Arts Centre,Triangle Market Place, High Street, Lowestoft, NR32 1QA. 01502500004. www.lowestoft-arts.org.

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4 April BOLD, INVENTIVE DANCE... AN ADVENTURE IN HIP HOP THE STAGE

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Orwell River Cruises

SAIL THE RIVER ORWELL AND SEE LOCAL WILDLIFE

he River Orwell is one of the most scenic and historic rivers in the country, and has been voted the second most beautiful river in England by the Royal Yachting Association. In addition the river is home to many types of wildlife â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from Peregrin falcons, to swans, seals and even a porpoise! Orwell Lady operates return public cruises from Ipswich Wet Dock (Orwell Quay) to the Orwell Bridge, Pin Mill or Harwich Harbour from Easter weekend through to October. There is a programme of music evenings from live jazz to disco, wine tasting and afternoon tea cruises throughout the season.The vessel is a popular venue for private hire to celebrate anniversaries, birthdays or corporate events. Orwell River Cruises is a family run business providing a traditional river cruise service to enable more people to experience the wonders of the River Orwell and Stour estuary, including the very impressive Port of Felixstowe. Tickets for all public cruises and theme nights as well as gift vouchers are available from the Tourist Information Centre in Ipswich by calling 01473 258070. For further information please visit the website www.orwellrivercruises.com, contact via info@ orwellrivercruises.com or telephone 07734875887.

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Newmarket

Discover

ewmarket is a market town in the English county of Suffolk. It is generally considered the birthplace and global centre of thoroughbred horse racing, and a future UNESCO World Heritage Site. King James I moved his court to Newmarket, transforming the fortunes of the then-village by building Newmarket Palace. Frequent stays by King Charles I and Charles II further cemented the town’s royal and horseracing tradition and made the town a fashionable centre for English gentry. It is a major local business cluster, with annual investment rivalling that of the Cambridge Science Park, the other major cluster in the region. It is the largest racehorse training centre in Britain, the largest racehorse breeding centre in the country, and home to most major British horseracing institutions, and a key global centre for horse health. Along with royal patronage, the founding of racing’s first administrative body, The Jockey Club, in Newmarket in 1752 confirmed its status as the centre of racing.Nowadays, Newmarket has two racecourses, 52 stud farms, 75 licensed trainers and the biggest equine auction house in Europe, Tattersalls.

Attractions The National Stud is the showcase for British thoroughbred breeding. Set in 500-acres close to Newmarket, it opened its gates to the public for the first time in the mid-1970’s. It remains the only working stud farm in

the UK welcoming individuals and parties who want to go behind the scenes of the industry. A tour will take you to the Foaling Unit and nursery paddocks where in the early spring, you may see a newborn foal and the superb Stallion Unit, with a chance to see Bahamian Bounty, Cockney Rebel, Pastoral Pursuits and new in 2012, Dick Turpin, the resident stallions. Tour content varies throughout the year and is dictated by seasonal activities on the stud when you visit. Wavertree House, The National Stud, Newmarket, Suffolk. Visitors can observe the town’s horsey heritage everywhere from its horse walks and traffic lights to horses and jockeys in training Monday to Saturday mornings at Warren Hill. But it is Britain’s oldest and most popular racing season that really attracts visitors. Newmarket Racecourse has lined up an exciting selection of summer evenings with appearances from Labrinth and the Kaiser Chiefs at the Friday Adnams Newmarket Nights that have accompanied races for 27 years. Those wanting to get behind-the-scenes shouldn’t miss the Newmarket Experience, which gives visitors the opportunity to spend a morning on the gallops before exploring training yards and stud farms. Newmarket is almost famous for its slightly spicy pork sausages awarded Protected Geographical Indicator of Origin status in 2012. Of the two varieties commonly available, Musk’s have been issued Royal Warrants since George V in 1907 right up to Queen Elizabeth II in 2005.

Mark your diaries for the Greyhound Extravaganza! If you love greyhounds and you are looking for a great family day out, you are invited to the Greyhound Extravaganza, held on Sunday 25 May at the Animal Health Trust in Kentford, near Newmarket. Now in its fifth year, the Greyhound Extravaganza is organised by the Retired Greyhound Trust (RGT) and is a fun day out for all the family, featuring dog show classes for greyhounds and other breeds (left). Samuel Zelmer-

Jackson, the Trust’s Media and PR Manager, said: “We are really pleased to be celebrating five years of the Greyhound Extravaganza. It is a fantastic day out in a beautiful setting, with trade stands, food and drink, lunchtime entertainment and dog classes, so there really is something for everyone.” To review a list of the show classes or to review the show schedule, visit www.retiredgreyhounds.co. uk/GreyhoundExtravaganza/.

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Newmarket

The Jockey Club is an integral component of the Newmarket landscape, managing the Gallops and Training Grounds, the July and Rowley Mile Racecourses, and the private Members club on the High Street. With a population of over 3,000 horses in Newmarket, precision in the daily maintenance and care of the gallops is paramount. There are 25 heath staff dedicated at any one time to caring for every square meter of the Heath, both on the racecourse side and Bury side of the town. The Jockey Club Estates have managed the heath since 1753, and therefore have created a legacy for maintaining top class racehorse training facilities globally, with miles of all-weather and grass surfaces to suit every training need. The Jockey Club Estates also manage Lambourn training grounds to the same standard, with similar facilities available to a vast number of racing establishments. Located on the High Street in the centre of Newmarket, The Jockey Club Rooms have been at the heart of British racing for over 250 years.

Founded in the middle of the eighteenth century, the Jockey Club was originally a social club aiming to promote good fellowship among racing and thoroughbred breeding enthusiasts. Today their headquarters reside in London, however The Jockey Club Rooms remain a private Members’ club, housing an unparalleled collection of racing memorabilia. The Club has eighteen country house style bedrooms, and five fine reception rooms including the Members’ Dining Room, Card Room, Morning Room and of course the historic Coffee Room, which has recently been refurbished. Outside of sacrosanct Members’ only periods, the Club hosts a limited number of Open House Events, inviting non-members to enjoy luxury hospitality and learn about the history of the Jockey Club. The Club can host weddings and corporate events subject to availability. For further information regarding both the Jockey Club Estates and The Jockey Club Rooms, visit www. jockeyclubrooms.co.uk, email enquiries@ jockeyclubrooms.co.uk or telephone 01638663101.

National Horse Racing Museum 99 High St, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 8JH, 01638667333. Opened by the Queen in 1983, The National Horse Racing Museum is an historic attraction of Newmarket not to be missed. So take advantage of the All Day Equine Tours, which provide an opportunity to visit some of the leading trainers’ stables in Newmarket. These exclusive tours are unique to the National Horseracing Museum. Visitors can grasp the opportunity to see unraced two-year-olds doing their ‘breeze up’ gallops, under the scrutiny of bloodstock agents and potential buyers, before they go under the hammer at the Tattersalls Breeze Up sales the next day. The David Swannell Gallery features the origins of racing, royalty and classic races while the Practical Gallery allows visitors to dress up in racing silks before weighing out and riding the museum’s horse simulator as used by jockeys and apprentices for practice. Many of the museum’s treasures are from the jockeys who have won incredible medals such as silks worn by Frankie Dettori at Ascot in 1996 when he achieved his Magnificent Seven. With a cafe serving delicious homemade food, there is no reason to miss this magnificent attraction in the heart of Newmarket.

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Newmarket

The Spiritual Home of Horseracing The QIPCO Guineas Festival at Newmarket Racecourses is a unique sporting occasion being held on Saturday 3 May and Sunday 4 May. A host of Europe’s top racehorses will compete on The Rowley Mile racecourse with racehorse owners, trainers and jockeys seeking glory at the historic home of horse racing. They will be competing for prize-money of £1.38 million. This fabulous sporting weekend is always compelling – and stylish. Race-goers come from near and far to savour two of the most eagerly awaited afternoons in the racing calendar. The QIPCO 2000 Guineas, first held in 1809, is one of the most important horse races in the world. Who will emerge as this year’s champion on 3rd May and follow in the hoof prints of greats like Frankel, Nashwan and Nijinsky? Top class colts Kingman, War Command – the winner of the Dubai Dewhurst Stakes on Dubai Future

Champions Day in the autumn – and Australia are on schedule for the race. Of course, there are more than a few others who will fancy their chances of emerging triumphant from the year’s first Classic. 2014 is a milestone for the QIPCO 1000 Guineas, a one-mile race for three-year-old fillies. The Classic is 200 years old this year – and to mark the occasion there will be a Family Fun Day. The stunning racing is not the only reason why The Rowley Mile feels highly charged during the QIPCO Guineas Festival; there will be plenty of activities to keep the children entertained too. A Big Top Circus is planned for The Hyperion Lawn. Not only will the circus be performing a variety of shows throughout the day, but there will also be workshop activities for the children. The Family Enclosure will host a variety of giant inflatables and a face painter.

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Norfolk THEATRE & SHOWS 1 - 5 April As You Like It To celebrate the 450th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth, As You Like It returns, set in 1967, the summer of love. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 2 - 12 April Cats Adapted from TS Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, this wonderful blend of fantasy, drama and romance is set on the night that the Jellicle Cats meet for the Jellicle Ball in a sparkling fusion of music, dance and verse. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 4 April Jim Davidson & Richard Digance Davidson and Digance team up for a limited tour this Spring in ‘Together Again’. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, 01263 512495 4 April Rat Pack Live A Dean, Sammy and Frank spectacular. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 5 April Swinging at the Cotton Club This is an action-packed show celebrating the music, dance, and songs of the Cotton Club – New York City’s famous nightclub of the 1920s and ‘30s. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 5 April Tom O’Connor Join Tom O’Connor & The Vintage Corporation Band in a great evening of music, dancing and top level comedy. Princess Theatre, Hunstanton, 01485 532252 5 - 21 April Pirates Live A brand new swashbuckling pirate water show featuring an amazing cast of Actors, Acrobats and Aerialists. All set on a huge Galleon in the Hippodrome water spectacular. The Hippodrome, Great Yarmouth, 01493 844172 6 April The Canada Boys Drama by Rob John based on the true story of a group of workers at the world famous Colman’s mustard factory. Granary Theatre, Wellsnext-the-Sea, 01328 710193 8 April Now - That’s What I Call Shakespeare! As part of their Shakespeare 450th birthday celebrations, the Norwich Players the best songs, sonnets and speeches from the world’s greatest wordsmith performed on our world famous Elizabethan style stage. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 8 - 12 April Sleeping Beauty in the Wood This bold production uses puppetry, imaginative video projections, automata and live music to weave an irresistibly magical storytelling experience. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921 9 - 12 April The Phantom of the Opera Amateur production. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 10 - 11 April The Bible: The Complete Word of God (Abridged) The Reduced Shakespeare Company set their reductive sights on the good book, written by Adam Long, Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor. Westacre Theatre, King’s Lynn, 01760 755800

10 - 11 April Alice in Wonderland An Easter treat for the whole family, starring Paul Daniels, Debbie McGee and ventriloquist Steve Hewlett. Princess Theatre, Hunstanton, 01485 532252

24 - 26 April The Chaos Theory Spooky Kid Productions return to Norwich Puppet Theatre with their most anarchic comedy yet. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 01603 629921

10 April Romeo & Juliet Yakety Yak performs this Elizabethan tragedy with all the gusto of youth, in a truly thrilling and visual production. Diss Corn Hall, Diss, 01379 652241

25 - 27 April English Touring Opera Perform Britten’s Paul Bunyan on Fri 25, Tippett’s King Priam on Sat 26 and Mozart’s The Magic Flute on Sun 27. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000

10 April

Comedian Jo

show.Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 11 April Dos Ramas A Flamenco show, starring Jairo Barrull and Manuela Vargas. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917 11 - 12 April Blood Wedding Presented by Theatrical Niche. Granary Theatre, Wells-next-the-Sea, 01328 710193 11 - 19 April Les Miserables Amateur production. Sheringham Little Theatre, Sheringham, 01263 822347 14 - 16 April Scooby - Doo - The Mystery Of The Pyramid With hilarious physical comedy, popular tunes and special effects, the whole family will enjoy this new episode live on stage. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 15 April Verdi Aida Directed by Ellen Kent featuring the Celebrated Chisinau National Opera and National Philharmonic with International Guest soloists. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 17 April Celtic Flame A spectacular and colourful show of Irish music, song and dance. Princess Theatre, Hunstanton, 01485 532252 18 April Formby In a unique one-man performance, Ewan Wardrop brings George Formby to colourful life. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 19 April Hardeep Singh Kohli The comedian, broadcaster, journalist, and chef takes his hilarious stand up show, ‘Hardeep Is Your Love’, on the road this Spring. Norwich Playhouse, Norwich, 01603 598598 19 April Cinderella Presented by Vienna Festival Ballet. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, 01263 512495 20 April Peter Pan A brand new and exciting adaptation of the classic story by J M Barrie about a boy who never grows up. Princess Theatre, Hunstanton, 01485 532252 21 - 23 April Tap Factory A stomping good show! Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 24 April - 3 May Humble Boy Blending Ayckbourn’s comedy of family relationships with Stoppard’s wit, Humble Boy rings with Shakespearean echoes. Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich, 01603 620917

25 April Patrick Monahan ‘Cake Charmer’, a new stand-up show form the comedian who likes hugging and eating cake but not simultaneously! Granary Theatre, Wells-next-the-Sea, 01328 710193 25 April Sixties Music and Laughter Show The New Honeycombs have teamed up with Tank Sherman. Pavilion Theatre, Gorleston, 01493 662832 26 - 27 April Robin Hood ily pantomime. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 29 April - 3 May Dial M for Murder Frederick Knott’s intense and darkly gripping thriller arrives in Norwich as part of a UK tour, starring Christopher Timothy as Inspector Hubbard. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000 29 - 30 April Aliens Love Underpants This zany and hilarious tale based on the bestselling children’s book is wonderfully time. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864

MUSIC 1 April We’ve Only Just Begun Carpenters tribute show. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864 1 April Deaf Havana Deaf Havana set out on tour following the release of their album, ‘Old Souls’. The Nick Rayns LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 2 April Jack Savoretti Acoustic solo gutiarist. OPEN, Norwich, 01603 508050 3 April John Bramwell Singer-songwriter and frontman of I Am Kloot heads out on a brand new solo tour. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 4 April Boy George Boy George is touring in support of his most recent album, ‘This Is What I Do’. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 4 April Walk Off The Earth The multiUEA.The Nick Rayns LCR, Norwich, 01603 508050 4 April 35 Years of The Selecter 2-Tone Legends, The Selecter, perform their seminal album ‘Too Much Pressure’ in its entirety. OPEN, Norwich, 01603 508050 5 April Villains The Essex rockers tour in support of their debut album. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050

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Redwings Norfolk

Entry is

Come see our visitor centres in free the heart of the Norfolk countryside. • Meet rescued horses and ponies in beautiful surroundings • Nature walks • Café

• • • •

Gift shop Visitor centre Children’s play area Dogs on leads welcome

Visit either Aylsham or Caldecott Visitor Centre. For more information about our centres visit www.redwings.org.uk or telephone 0870 040 0033

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Norfolk 8 April Therapy? To mark the 20th anniversary of ‘Troublegum’, Therapy? are taking the album on tour in 2014. The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050

29 April Blood Red Shoes

8 April Curtis Eller’s American Circus

29 April Maia The Bicycle Shop, Norwich, 01603 625777

The Bicycle Shop, Norwich, 01603 625777

ART & EXHIBITIONS

10 April Martha Reeves & The Vandellas

1 - 27 April Roman Empire: Power and People

The Waterfront, wich, 01603 508050

ment. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199 Nor-

1 - 14 April Anthea Eames Solo Exhibition

Wymondham Arts Centre, Wymondham 5 April - 30 May Elaine Pamphilon / Christopher Marvell / Cristina Zani

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn, 01553 764864

Bircham Gallery, Holt, 01263 713312

12 April Sheelanagig

26 April - 24 Aug John Virtue: The Sea Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 12 April Mid Norfolk Singers Norwich Cathedral, Norwich, 01603 628319

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Norwich, 01603 493625 Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199

1 April - 14 Dec Sense and Sensuality: Art Nouveau 1890 - 1914

SPECIAL EVENTS

13 April Arcadia Quartet Chamber music concert. Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea, 01328 711008 18 April Horace Andy Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352 19 April Paul Carrack Fresh from a

4 - 5 April Mind, Body and Spirit Fair This event encompasses everything green, Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, 01603 593199 1 April - 3 May Spring Forth! Full of the

18 - 19 April Norfolk Antique & Collectors Fair

songs from his vast catalogue. Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000

The Assembly House, Norwich, 01603 626402

19 April Intimately Eva Granary Theatre, Wells-nextthe-Sea, 01328 710193

1 - 2 April Newcomers Exhibition

20 April Britten Sinfonia Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, 01603 630000

year. Bircham Gallery, Holt, 01263 713312

23 April Skip Finn

The Bicycle Shop, Norwich, 01603 625777

ables, sustainable living, taster sessions, The Forum, Norwich, 01603 727950

collection, or enthusiast searching for a

1 - 5 April Jerwood Painting Fellows Exhibition Contemporary painting from some The Gallery at NUA, Norwich, 01603 886385

Norfolk Showground, Costessey, 01702 549623 25 - 27 April Dragon Hall Beer Festival

1 April - 31 Oct Duty Calls: Holkham 1914 to 1918 -

23 April Ben Watt

Dragon Hall, Norwich, 01603 663922

ler. Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich, 01603 660352

26- 27 April The East Anglian Game & Country Fair ‘have a go’ at a range of activities. Things

25 April We Say Yeah! Celebrating the Pavilion Theatre, Cromer, 01263 512495 25 April Zion Train Dub reggae ensemble. OPEN, Norwich, 01603 508050 27 April Think Floyd

Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea, 01328 710227 1 April - 27 July Monument: Aftermath A collaboration -

Norfolk Showground, Costessey, 01702 549623 26 - 27 April Mind Body Spirit Exhibition

Pavilion Theatre,

Cromer, 01263 512495

The Town Hall, Hunstanton, 07932 012262

27 April New Model Army The Waterfront, Norwich, 01603 508050 29 April Patent Pending / People On Vacation The Waterfront Studio, Norwich, 01603 508050

27 April St George’s Day Parade

The Forum. The Forum, Norwich, 01603 727950

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www.cristalloliving.co.uk | 01842 756720 Station Lane, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 1ND

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Cristallo Bathrooms

Discover Norfolk’s most exciting bathroom showroom Discover the secrets to peace and tranquility with Cristallo Bathrooms, Norfolk’s most exciting bathroom showroom. Whilst some dream of ‘The Perfect Bathroom’ others are busy making it happen. Whatever your budget, whatever your size, Cristallo has it for you. Welcome to the beautiful world of Cristallo Bathrooms. Enormous showerheads suspended in super size enclosures, space-saving shower doors which fold inwards as well as opening outwards, and basins and cupboards with genuine stroke-ability factor – there are plenty of new ideas here. That’s even before the cupboards and drawers have been opened and the secret storage solutions discovered. No longer are drawers under basins blank fronts just for looks; they cut around the basin so every centimetre of space is available for bathroom essentials. Visitors love the bespoke bathroom settings too, gathering inspiration for their own homes, from huge wall tiles to clever lighting. The interactive experience continues, with a large collection of taps to touch, plenty of shower doors to see and feel. With lots of cubicle sizes and shapes to step in and out of, it truly is about the experience. The designers have combined sleek bathrooms with genuine visitor appeal, a space where it’s almost impossible not to touch the taps, the tiles, the crisp edges of the Novellini range, the curved lines and colourful features of Aqua Cabinets and the appealing wave shape of Roca’s innovative basin designs. And that’s just fine with Cristallo’s manager Craig Ranson – he’s happy for customers to browse, touch and ask questions. And when they’re ready to imagine one of the ranges in their own home, showroom manager Patrick will draw up exactly what they need. There’s even an app to download the ideas to a smartphone. Gadget fans will love the innovative new cistern-less toilet from Roca – the future is here and Cristallo is to be one of only a select few specially chosen showrooms in the UK to display this new concept. Offering that bit more is part of the Cristallo ethos, with ranges stretching from the classic Victorian styles of Burlington to the bespoke shower trays of Fiora, displays from some of Europe’s leading designers such as Pelipal, Hansgrohe and Ideal Standard, plus British made bespoke offerings from Ellis Furniture. And what’s more, the new Bathroom Takeaway showroom has full suites to pick up and take away, all at low prices. The showroom has super smart customer toilets too. “It seemed crazy to us to be a bathroom showroom without beautiful customer toilets,” says Craig. And it’s this common sense, professional approach which is bringing customers to Cristallo.And what’s more, the sister company to the long established and neighbouring P & P Premier Plumbing, it makes for a one-stop-shop too. P&P Premier Plumbing’s store manager Martin explains: “We’ve all been guilty of expecting these large national chains to offer the best price around but that’s simply not the case. Whatever plumbing and heating essentials you need come in and see us. Low prices, local deliveries and fantastic customer service, that’s what independents are all about!”

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Thetford

Discover

hetford is a unique hub of both historical and natural significance. Once the ancient capital of East Anglia, and situated at the heart of the unique Brecks natural area, this market town offers plenty for any type of visitor to discover. England’s entire history is mapped out across the town, and some of the most amazing characters from the past have been to Thetford over the last 2,000 years. The infamous warrior queen Boudica built Gallows Hill before leading the revolt against the Romans – Iron Age Thetford was heavily associated with the Iceni tribe. During its time as the Saxon capital of East Anglia, Thetford was home to its own mint, with its coins being found as far afield as Scandinavia. Revolutionary Thomas Paine was born in the town, which was also home Maharajah Duleep Singh (a friend of Queen Victoria and the owner of the world’s largest diamond). That’s just the tip of the iceberg – you really have to visit Thetford to appreciate its unique and diverse heritage.

Things to See The Ancient House Museum is a Grade I listed Tudor merchant’s house which tells the remarkable story of Thetford and the Brecks through a rich collection of artefacts as well as audio guides, films and animations. White Hart Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 1AA. 01842752599. Nature lovers will jump at the chance to explore Thetford Forest, Britain’s largest lowland pine forest. The forest is well known for its scarce breeding birds and mountain biking trails, and also offers a variety of visitor facilities. Enjoy a picnic, keep the kids occupied in the adventure playground and maze, and treat yourself to a cake from the tea room. Concerts are also held in the forest, which has previously seen the likes of Pulp and Jools Holland perform. Food & Drink The Mulberry Restaurant provides English-Mediterranean bistro cuisine. Local produce ensures that the high-quality dishes served are on par with top London restaurants. It’s no wonder that they were awarded with a TripAdvisor

Certificate of Excellence in 2013. 11 Raymond Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2EA. 01842824122. Built in 1694, The Dolphin Inn has always been a public house and is located in the atmospheric historic centre of Thetford in clear view of the ancient castle hill. There are real ales on tap, including the Inn’s own, and the menu specialises in no-frills pub fare. Old Market Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2EQ. 01842762406. Places to Stay The Thomas Paine is a beautiful boutique style hotel situated within walking distance of many of the town’s attractions and just ten minutes away from the station. 33 White Hart Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 1AA. 01842750372. Family owned and operated, Wereham House Hotel is another Thetford recipient of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2013. There are 8 comfortably furnished en-suite bedrooms to choose from, and the pretty patio and lawned garden is the perfect place to enjoy a chilled drink. 24 White Hart Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 1AD. 01842761956.

ANCIENT HOUSE MUSEUM OF THETFORD LIFE The charming black and white building known as the Ancient House is among the principal attractions of the town of Thetford in Norfolk. It is one of the best examples of an early Tudor town house in East Anglia featuring an elaborate oak ceiling in the main hall. The house is now a museum with 21st century displays, telling the remarkable story of Thetford and the Brecks. Discover rich collections alongside audio guides, films and animations. Learn more about Thetford’s most famous son, Thomas Paine, political writer and radical thinker of the 18th Century, who played a key role in the American War of Independence. Find out about the town’s connection with an Indian Prince, Maharajah Duleep Singh whose son Prince Frederick purchased the Ancient House for the town. The former inhabitants of the 500-year-old Ancient House also make an appearance, from Mrs Newton, a Victorian landlady, to rabbit warreners and local politicians. Oliver Bone, Curator, said “Thetford is remarkably rich in archaeological material. From the Roman silver and gold of the Thetford Treasure, found at Fison’s Way in 1979, to fantastic sites such as Castle Hill, Britain’s largest medieval earthwork, there’s a wealth to discover.” Throughout the year events and activities for schools, groups, families and the general public are held at the museum. A new exhibition I Love Toys & Games is due to open on 12 April, followed by an exhibition telling the story of Thetford during WWI in August. Visit the website www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk, and the Facebook page facebook/ ancienthousemuseum.

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Great Yarmout h G

reat Yarmouth, often known to locals as Yarmouth, is a coastal town in Norfolk. It is located at the mouth of the River Yare, 20 miles east of Norwich. It has been a seaside resort since 1760, and is the gateway between the Norfolk Broads and the sea. Things to See The Tollhouse, with dungeons, dates from the late 13th century and is said to be the oldest civic building in Britain. The market place is one of the largest in England, and has been operating since the 13th century. It is home to the town’s shopping sector and the famous Yarmouth chip stalls. The smaller area south of the market is used as a performance area for community events and for access to the town’s shopping centre, Market Gates. The Grade II listed Winter Gardens building sits next to the Wellington Pier. The cast iron-framed glass structure was shipped by barge from Torquay in 1903. Over the years, it has been used as ballroom, roller skating rink, beer garden, and

nightclub. It is currently closed. Great Yarmouth’s seafront, known as The Golden Mile, attracts millions of visitors each year to its sandy beaches, indoor and outdoor attractions and amusement arcades. Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade has twelve Amusement Arcades located within 2 square miles. Places to Eat and Stay At night The Waterside becomes an elegant restaurant alongside Rollesby Broad. Choose to eat in the restaurant or relax under the heated terrace canopy, watching the sun set. Main Road, Rollesby, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR29 5EF. 01493740531. The Star Hotel on South Quay overlooking the River Yare is one of the town’s most striking buildings with its distinct black and white facade, parts of which date back to the 17th century. 24 Hall Quay, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 1HG. 01493842294. Andover House is a prestigious AA 2 Rosette and Michelin Good Food Guide acknowledged venue. Bursting with warmth and

Great Yarmouth

character, the modern lounge-bar and restaurant offer a place to escape, chat, dine or do business in style. For dinner, you can select from the seasonal menu or specials board, both perfectly suited to the season and with local ingredients. The wine and champagne selection is picked with great care by the owner. 28 - 30 Camperdown, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 3JB. 01493843490. For a more relaxed and informal evening out, choose one of the many pubs and bars of the area. The Pier Tavern is located at the front of the Britannia Pier. It’s a great place for families by day and party goers by night; with regular live music, entertainment and karaoke over the summer season, there’s something for everyone. Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 2EH. 01493842914. The Mariners Tavern is a very popular public house in the centre of the town, renowned for its superb range of cask ales and ciders and great atmosphere. 69 Howard Street South, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 1LN. 01493332299.

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Wells and Walsingham

ells-Next-The-Sea is a traditional seaside town on the beautiful North Norfolk coast. It’s home to everything we love about the seaside - amusement arcades, hungry seagulls, fish‘n’chips, ice creams and cockles. But it’s also so much more, a most interesting and fascinating place, charming, picturesque and historical. Explore creeks and salt marshes teeming with bird life, walk along sandy beaches on a seaside break, or take a boat trip to see the seal colony. Castle, church and abbey ruins are just waiting to be discovered, along with art galleries, steam railways, a reconstructed Iron Age village and cycle ways galore.

Wells & Walsingham Light Railway This unique railway opened in 1982 and is the longest 10 ¼ in. narrow gauge steam railway in the world. The unique and powerful locomotives ‘Norfolk Hero’ and ‘Norfolk Heroine’ were built especially for this line. A timetabled service takes you from the village of Walsingham along the track bed of the former Great Eastern line to Wells-Next-The-Sea. The journey takes just 30 minutes and takes you through the beautiful Norfolk countryside – the scenery is incomparable. The many cuttings and embankments along the line result in a diverse mixture

of flora and fauna – wild flowers, butterflies, birds, and other wildlife that can be spotted throughout the season. Halts at Wighton and Warham allow you to alight and explore the nearby villages. Wells-Next-The-Sea is the main station, where the engine sheds and signal box are located. Take the opportunity to explore the charming harbour town upon arrival, or indulge in some refreshments at Christine’s, The Station Buffet. Wells-Next-The-Sea provides the ideal base to explore more of the gorgeous North Norfolk coast before catching the train back to Walsingham.

Wells Walsingham

Staithe Street, Wells-Next-The-Sea

and

n the heart of the lush Norfolk countryside, just few miles from the glorious North Norfolk Coast (and directly south of Wells-next-the-Sea), lies the historically significant village of Walsingham. Written records of the village date back to Saxon times when the settlement was first established on the banks of the River Stiffkey – it is listed in the Domesday Book under the name of Walsingham Parva. Nowadays the village (incorporating both Little and Great Walsingham) is home to approximately 800 people, but it has lost none of its rural charm. Walsingham holds a unique place in history as England’s premier place for pilgrimage. At its height in medieval times, Walsingham actually rivalled Canterbury and the great shrines of Europe in its fame and popularity. Most kings and queens of England made pilgrimages there at some point, from Henry III to Henry VIII. Even today, more than 300,000 visitors flock to the village each year to visit the two shrines and experience a deep sense of peace and tranquillity. Obviously, no visit to Walsingham would be complete without a visit to each of the shrines that make the village so famous. Sadly, the original Roman Catholic shrine was destroyed during the reformation, but

the Slipper Chapel, a 14th century wayside pilgrim chapel, was restored and named The Roman Catholic National Shrine of Our Lady in 1934. The Anglican shrine church, The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham, was built in the 20th century and is where the Holy House is located – a replica of the home in Nazareth of the Holy Family. Don’t miss the image of Our Lady of Walsingham, carved in 1922 and copied from the seal of the medieval priory which was suppressed in 1538. Places to Eat & Stay The Norfolk Riddle’s food and drink philosophy focuses on all things local, fresh and seasonal. Ingredients are sourced straight from the producer where possible, so expect to dine on fresh local game from the Walsingham Estate Shoot and vegetables from the abundant farms nearby. There’s also a takeaway fish and chip counter with sustainably sourced fish and mussels and crab bought straight from the fishermen themselves. Walsingham, Norfolk NR22 6DJ. 01328821903. www.norfolkriddle.co.uk. Longview B&B offers luxury bed and breakfast accommodation with comfortable, modern rooms that have wonderful views over the fields to the church at Wighton. Walsingham, Norfolk, NR22 6DY. 01328820075.

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Staying In

LEISURE APRIL

KILL YOUR DARLINGS, JOHN KROKIDAS Daniel Radcliffe stars as Beat Generation icon Allen Ginsberg in this biopic set during the famed poet’s early years at Columbia University (1944). His colleagues are the charismatic Lucien Carr and aspiring writers William S. Burroughs and Jack Kerouac. Their creativity and cutting-edge, rebellious spirit will lead them to explore new bold literary ideas, but will also mark their lives forever. An intense drama now available on DVD. MISSING YOU, HARLAN COBEN Harlan Coben, well-established American author of several thrillers, is back with his last work, Missing You. This is a wise mixture of mystery and dark romance, centred on the character of NYPD Detective Kat Donovan, who faces a tough investigation involving her former fiancé Jeff and her father – whose murder is still without a clear solution. A web of conspiracy, a journey in the darkness that will ultimately change Kat in the deep. THE KABUL BEAUTY SCHOOL, DEBORAH RODRIGUEZ From the bestselling author of The little coffee shop of Kabul, a new novel set in a little beauty

NEW

RELEASES

school in the war zone of Kabul. We get to know the stories of the women who find in that place a safe haven to confide their worries and dreams of freedom and independence. An eye opening and inspiring story, a page-turning reading thanks to its genuine and poignant traits. MODS - THE NEW RELIGION, PAUL ANDERSON Mod, the dandified youth subculture developed in the 60s around London, has never really left the public imagination. This volume by Paul Anderson has everything you want to know about Mods, thanks to first hand accounts from the people who were actually on the scene – scooterboys, DJs, musicians, they all build up a vivid snapshot of that cultural era. Unmissable for the sixties’ freaks. THE NOURISHED KITCHEN, JENNIFER MCGRUTHER A cookbook from the author of the popular website Nourished Kitchen, featuring 175 recipes based on the “traditional foods” philosophy – which means avoiding processed food and choosing seasonal ingredients from nearby sources. This interesting book encourages a mindful cooking and celebrates the old-world culinary traditions for a healthy living.

Y JO N E

Simona Arcaro shares her selection of books and films to keep you entertained this month

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W N NO PE O

in partnership with

The British Museum

THE NEW VERULAMIUM MUSEUM SHOP A collaboration by the British Museum and Verulamium Museum to bring you a shop filled with fabulous gifts, books, toys and souvenirs inspired by the Roman world.

www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Verulamium Museum

Opening Hours

St Michael’s Street St Albans Hertfordshire AL3 4SW

Mon – Sat: 10.00am – 5.30pm Sun: 2.00pm - 5.30pm Last admission 5.00pm

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05/11/2013 15:53

Saturday June 2014 2014 Saturday 28 28 June Hylands Essex Hylands Park Park Chelmsford Chelmsford Essex

Live be Music Acts to be Live Music announced April announced April

Over300 300performers performers to to be be announced Over announced soon soon Latestline-up, line-up,festival festival tickets, tickets, bus Latest bus and and car-sharing car-sharinginfo infoat: at:

or in person at the Civic Theatre, Fairfield Rd, Chelmsford until 6pm, June 27. or in person at the Civic Theatre, Fairfield Rd, Chelmsford until 6pm, June 27.

Programme subject to change. Programme subject to change. heybridgecreative

heybridgecreative

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