Eastlife December 2015 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

www.eastlife.co.uk

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December 2015

Living life in the East

DECEMBER 2015

Make the most of where you live Issue 127

Merry Christmas from All at Eastlife

Presenting the all-new GLC-Class. Opening doors to a new segment. Representative example New GLC 220d 4MATIC SE (Automatic) 36 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement) On-the-road price Customer deposit Retailer deposit contribution Optional purchase payment† Amount of credit Total amount payable†† Purchase activation fee† Representative APR Fixed interest rate

£369.00 £35,595.00 £5,454.54 £0.00 £21,700.00 £30,140.46 £40,448.54 £10.00 6.4% 6.17%

Brand new to the Mercedes-Benz portfolio this year, we present the new generation of SUV. With an extensive range of technologies, a combination of advanced four-cylinder engines and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive, the new GLC ensures a powerful, dynamic driving experience – whatever the terrain. And from just £369* per month it’s perfectly affordable too. Offer ends 31 December 2015.

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

Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900

Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307

www.robinsons.mercedes-benz.co.uk

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the GLC range: urban 51.4(5.5), extra urban 60.1(4.7), combined 56.5(5.0). CO2 emissions 143-129 g/km. Official EU regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual

performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance on behalf of other finance companies as well. Model featured is a new Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d 4MATIC SE at £35,595 on-the-road including optional metallic paint at £645 (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Finance offer based on a new GLC 220d 4MATIC SE with metallic paint on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement, on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges may apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and retailer deposit contribution. Orders/credit approvals on selected GLC models between 1 October and 31 December 2015, registered by 31 March 2016. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your retailer for availability. Terms and conditions apply. Credit approval subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA.

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04/11/2015 08:08

WELCOME TO EASTLIFE Dear reader, It’s that time of year again, the big day is just around the corner, but before the Christmas chaos begins, I suggest you put your feet up, pour a hot drink (a mulled wine is completely acceptable after 11am in December), and settle down with Eastlife. This issue we have Christmas all wrapped up – last minute gift ideas for the women in your life, the best local produce for your dinner and festive fun for kids and adults too.

Publisher Sean Thompson

01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com Editor Emma Kemsley

01954 267904 emma@eastmag.com

It is of course the season to be jolly, and you’ll be having laughs aplenty with our round up of the cosiest pubs, cocktail recipes and NYE party venues.

Production Manager Craig Lewis

01954 268142 craig@eastmag.com Digital Media Manager Ben Attenborough

01954 777070 ben@eastmag.com Social Media Manager Nicole Ranaweera 07921 235539 nicole@eastmag.com Sales Manager (South Norfolk, Suffolk & Essex)

I hope you use the festive break to take some much needed time to rest and spend with family, but most importantly I hope you all have a very merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Emma Kemsley

Darren Marshall 07826 628680 darren@eastmag.com

OUR APP IS PACKED WITH ADDITIONAL CONTENT

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

EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.

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eastlife.co.uk | 3

CONTENTS DECEMBER FEATURES

NEWS 7

AROUND THE REGION - news & events

LIFESTYLE 23

GIFT GUIDE - perfect presents for women

WINTER WALKS - the best scenic strolls

LITTLE EAST 39

SANTA GROTTOS - festive fun for kids

FOOD & DRINK

APPETISER - news & events

COSY PUBS - warm up and get merry

COCKTAILS - impress your guests

FASHION MERRY CHRISTMAS!

THE BEST FESTIVE EVENTS

WEDDINGS 60

NYE STYLE - dress to impress this NYE

RINGS - pcik the perfect diamond

MOTORING 63

REVIEW - the Audi A4

HOME & GARDEN

PARTY TIME STYLISH NYE VENUES

INTERIORS - quick fixes in the kitchen

HOME DECOR - top trends in 2016

ARTS 85

ARTS COLUMN - Collette Hoefkins

ARTS NEWS - gallery updates

HEALTH 91

BODY IMAGE

- why do we hate our body?

AREA FOCUS 95

SUFFOLK - events and xmas on the coast

107

BEDS, BUCKS, HERTS - a visit to

Hertford, Ware, Bedford and Woburn

FESTIVE FEAST TOP REGIONAL TREATS & PRODUCE

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121

ESSEX - listings and Christmas in Colchester

127

CAMBS - Christmas shopping in Cambridge

135

NORFOLK - King’s Lynn and Swaffham

146

SOCIAL SCENE - your comments & details

of our biggest competition of the year

THE BEST WAY TO PREDICT THE FUTURE IS TO CREATE IT.

The new BMW 7 Series

The Ultimate Driving Machine

THE NEW BMW 7 SERIES. DRIVING LUXURY.

After nearly a decade of development, the new BMW 7 Series ushers in entirely new levels of engineering and technology. From its revolutionary multifunction Display Key, which illustrates vital information about the car and can possess the impressive power of Remote Control Parking*, to BMW Gesture Control and Touch Command, providing control at your fingertips whether you are driving or being driven. Such pioneering innovations are set to shape BMW cars to come. To experience the most innovative car in its class, please contact your local BMW Centre to arrange an exclusive test drive â&#x20AC; at www.bmw.co.uk/southeast

Official fuel economy figures for the new BMW 7 Series range: Urban 24.8-51.4mpg (11.4-5.5l/100km). Extra Urban 45.6-67.3mpg (6.2-4.2l/100km). Combined 34.9-60.1mpg (8.1-4.7l/100km). CO 2 emissions 189-124g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. *Available with Advanced Parking Package. â&#x20AC; Test drive subject to

applicant status and availability.

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23/11/2015 12:16

AROUND THE REGION

Around the Region Latest News from

EXTRA SPARKLE ADDED TO INTU CHAPELFIELD intu Chapelfield in Norwich is getting even more sparkle with Pandora and Swarovski both set to feature in the 530,000 sq ft shopping centre. Rebecca Ryman, regional director of intu, said: “In addition to a 1.1 million catchment, intu Chapelfield benefits from a very high number of day visitors and tourists to the city. Norwich has more tourists than destinations such as York and Bristol. Add to that the large student population, and the appeal for retailers opening at intu Chapelfield becomes clear.” The new 2,800 sq ft Pandora shop will be on the upper mall on a 10 year lease, adjacent to Schuh, Hollister, Apple and Monsoon. The Swarovski store, also on the upper mall level, is to open in a 1,000 sq ft unit on a 10 year lease. Additionally, popular homeware and gifts retailer Tiger has taken 2,800 sq ft on a 10 year lease on the lower ground floor by the main St Stephen’s Arcade entrance adding to the inviting tenant mix at the centre. This is Tiger’s second store in the city, building on existing market demand and bringing further choice to intu customers.

MAPPIN & WEBB LAUNCHES LUXURY SHOWROOM IN CAMBRIDGE Mappin & Webb has re-opened its luxury showroom in Cambridge on Market Hill after extensive refurbishment. The updated space is in line with the brand’s contemporary visual identity whilst retaining key elements throughout to highlight the jeweller’s historical heritage. The store includes boutique areas for Patek Phillipe and Rolex, a ‘Jewellery Room’ and a ‘Watch Room’. At the rear of the store are bespoke gift and customer service facilities. The retailer has recently launched a collection of distinctly festive jewellery gift sets perfect for putting under the tree!

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AROUND THE REGION

MARITIME WOODBRIDGE WILL RELAUNCH IN 2017 It has been announced there will be no Maritime Woodbridge Festival of the Sea in 2016, because the former Whisstocks site on which it has been held in the past is undergoing redevelopment. However, the show will be relaunched in 2017. The event, which has attracted thousands of visitors to Woodbridge in recent years as part of the National Heritage Open Days, will be centred on the redeveloped site. It will benefit from the new public open space and the town’s new boat building shed, plus the relocated town museum Maritime Woodbridge Treasurer Professor Ted Evans explains: “We were reluctant to drop the event for 2016, but concluded that not having the Whisstocks site available would have meant space for some of the main attractions could not be found. However, the redeveloped site will be a big benefit for future shows. We are already working on ideas for 2017, but would welcome new volunteers to join our committee.” WEAVERS’ HOUSE SPA IS A WINNER Weavers’ House Spa at the 15th century Swan at Lavenham Hotel & Spa, Suffolk has won the coveted Good Spa Guide national ‘Best Spa for Serenity’ award for being the most tranquil spa in Britain, sponsored by Thalgo. Winners of the annual Good Spa Guide national awards, in association with Decléor, are decided by the specially appointed Spa Spies™. They review over 100 spas every year and complete a detailed audit sheet that covers all aspects of the spa from service and facilities to cleanliness and maintenance. www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk/weavers

HELP IS AT HAND IN NORWICH The Norwich City Hosts will be out and about covering key city centre areas during the Christmas period, assisting both locals and visitors with any questions or queries they have. This includes where to go for a spot of lunch to where special gifts can be bought. The volunteers are a diverse team of people from international students at the UEA wanting to learn more about Norwich, to lifelong Norfolk residents who want to give back to their local community. Look out for the City Hosts in their blue tabards when coming into Norwich this Christmas! eastlife.co.uk | 9

AROUND THE REGION

NORWICH THEATRE ROYAL CONFIRMS NEW BOWIE SHOW As David Bowie gets set to release a new single this month and with a new album due out in January 2016, Norwich Theatre Royal go on sale with the spectacular Bowie Experience theatre show featuring all of David Bowie’s hits. The new two-hour show celebrates the music of the world’s greatest pop icon giving audiences an unforgettable journey of Sound and Vision through David Bowie’s golden years. The show promises a truly authentic live experience and to amaze audiences with an astounding attention to detail featuring all of Bowie’s hits. Tickets for Norwich go on sale Tuesday 8 December 2015. www.BowieExperience.com

NEWMARKET NIGHTS SCOOP TOP AWARD FOR GROUPS Newmarket Nights have been selected as the ‘Best Night Out For Groups’ and the annual concert series is now looking ahead to 350 years of making history celebrations at Newmarket Racecourses next year. This year over 100,000 people attended the seven annual concerts with acts such as from Sir Tom Jones, Kylie and Madness taking to the stage. The concerts take place on the Adnams July Course and are coupled with horseracing, making it an ideal summer event for groups. Acts for 2016 Newmarket Nights will be announced soon. www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk MISTLETOE AND MAGIC AT AUDLEY END The popular ‘A Victorian Christmas’ returns to Audley End House and Garden on 5-6 December. Revellers can celebrate the festive season the Victorian way as they step back in time to the 1800s and immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and smells of the grandest day of the year. Due to popular demand, two carol concerts will take place on Tuesday 8 December, with carols sung by Christ’s College Cambridge choir, in the sumptuous surroundings of the Great Hall. For the first time the gardens, stables and service wing at Audley End will be open between Sunday 27 and Thursday 31 December.

CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT KNEBWORTH This year Knebworth House will be hosting a brand new festive event; a reading of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol with actor Wesley Hughes by the fire. Taking place on Friday 11 December, the evening will include festive musical accompaniment and carol singing with audience participation. The event will held in the Banqueting Hall of Knebworth House, which will be splendidly decorated for Christmas. Tickets cost £22 per person including a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie on arrival. www.knebworthhouse.com/events eastlife.co.uk | 11

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Find all you need to know about the festive season in the region, from Christmas markets and shopping to sparkling lights and trees, with our pick of the jolliest festive events LAVENHAM CHRISTMAS FAIR, 4-6 DEC

Begin your Christmas with a visit to this three-day magical event set in the lovely Market Place and historic Guildhall. Festivities begin on Friday evening which lead into a weekend of entertainment and shopping. There’s a huge emphasis on food and drink, with plenty of sweet treats, mince pies, hog roast and mulled drinks to warm you up. Gifts of all kind will be available, browse the stalls as the choir sings, let the kids play at the mini-fairground or visit Santa in his grotto. The market opens Saturday and Sunday at 10.30am. www.discoverlavenham.co.uk THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

This is the ultimate Christmas show. Set in the magical surroundings of mechanical organs and fairground carousels, expect a dazzling array of music, humour and entertainment from a cast of 130 professional singers, dancers and musicians. It’s a fast moving celebration of the festive season featuring an eclectic mix of both seasonal and year-round favourites, with famous and much-loved chart toppers being sung alongside traditional carols. 11 November – 23 December, 2pm and 7pm, tickets from £30. Tel: 01328 878477 www.thursford.com/christmas-spectacular THE NORTH POLE CAMBRIDGE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

Taking place on Parker’s Piece, Cambridge, from 20 November – 4 January, The North Pole Cambridge Christmas Festival is a fun and festive day out. Featuring an icy extravaganza, this annual festival is centred around the stunning 600m-ice rink. Young visitors can visit Santa’s Throne Room where children will be greeted by Santa and one of his Elves, who will be

ready with a gift, while adults can browse the Ye Olde Traditional English Market full of wonderful gift ideas, homemade crafts and festive decorations. A classic fairground complements the atmosphere and visitors can warm up at undercover Alpine Cabin Bar with a mulled wine or hot chocolate. www.thenorthpolecambridge.co.uk WELLS CHRISTMAS TIDE

Due to its popularity, this year the annual Wells Christmas Tide has extended its timetable of events from a weekend to nine days. Taking place in Wellsnext-the-Sea from 5-13 December, organisers aim to ‘light Wells up’ by including The Buttlands, the town’s central green space, as well as The Quayside and Staithe Street, in the festive fun. Visitors can browse two marquees on The Buttlands. One will feature Christmas stalls selling gifts and festive food and drink, while the other features an entertainment stage. Between the two festival-goers will be able to glide into the seasonal spirit by donning their blades to try out a skating rink. Other attractions include cookery demonstrations, children’s ﬁlm screenings, a pantomime, evening carols, a cocktail evening, a Onesie Night and circus acts. Father Christmas will arrive by sea on 12 December, followed by a spectacular ﬁrework display over the marshes. www.wellschristmastide.org.uk eastlife.co.uk | 15

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LIFESTYLE

for everyone on your list. Festive goodies, homewares, decorations and gifts as well as tasty hot food. After a browse stop off at the festive bar and warm up with a mulled wine or cider. The market is open from 11am to 6pm on weekdays with late night opening until 8pm on Thursdays and 10am to 6pm on weekends, 26 November – 20 December. www.enjoystalbans.com THE WOODBRIDGE FESTIVE MARKET

BUCKLAND BARN

Even the biggest of Scrooges would find it difficult not to get into the Christmas spirit in this barn, set in the countryside of Buntingford. Decked floor to ceiling in festive decorations, homeware, floristry and more, it’s Christmas shopping on another level. It’s easy to spend hours browsing the displays and firs. Warm up with a coffee and finish with the children popping by to see Father Christmas in his workshop. They can also post a letter into special red post box and await a reply. Open seven days a week. Tel: 01763 272549 www.christmasatbucklandbarn.co.uk BURY ST EDMUNDS ICE RINK

The town’s first real ice rink is set to make Bury St Edmunds a popular place to visit this Christmas. Located in Charter Square at the Arc Shopping Centre, the rink will be open every day from 5 December to 3 January, except Christmas Day. With a fantastic choice of high street stores and boutiques for Christmas shopping, plenty of teashops, restaurants and pubs for a bite to eat, and now the added benefit of an ice rink, Bury St Edmunds is perfect for a festive day out. ST ALBANS CHRISTMAS MARKET

Set in the picturesque Vintry Garden, in the grounds of the Cathedral, this Christmas market seems to get more popular every year. Twinkling fairy lights, the smell of roasting chestnuts and mulled wine, Christmas music in the background, plus the majestic backdrop of the illuminated Cathedral make this a must to kick-start your festive season. There will be in the region of 60 chalets, selling gifts

The Woodbridge Festive Market takes place on Saturday 12 December from 9.30am to 4pm on the town’s Market Hill and inside the Shire Hall. With over 50 traders setting up their stalls around the town’s traditional Christmas tree, the market will have a huge range of things to buy for presents, from vintage finds, fashion and jewellery to artworks, decorations and crafts. There will also be a selection of local food and drink producers selling tasty treats for the festive season. www.debenevents.com FESTIVE THEATRE

Even the region’s theatre performances are getting a Christmas makeover this month. Choose from a host of festive-themed dramas, carol concerts and musicals. Buddy Holly and the Cricketers herald in the Yuletide festivities on Tuesday 15 December with Holly at Christmas at Watford Colosseum, while the The Apex will be rocking and rolling on 14 December with Roy Wood’s Rock & Roll Christmas Party. There’s pantomimes galore of course, with a few famous faces popping up at Norwich theatre Royal, Gordon Craig Theatre and the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange. For more event listings visit our new and improved website at www.eastlife.co.uk STOWMARKET CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

After ten successful years the festival is expanding yet again and this year will include three venues in the town centre. From brussel sprouts covered in glitter to loom band shepherds to edible donkeys created from icing sugar, expect to see a variety of decorations hanging among the trees. As well as traditional Christmas trees visitors can also view an optical illusion tree, one made from six hundred buttons and another from Roses tin lids to name a few. The one way route around the church includes a stopping off point to relax and have a drink and a mince pie as you take in more of the enchanting Christmas atmosphere. www.stowmarketparishchurch.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 19

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GIFT GUIDE If (like me) you still haven’t a clue what to buy your mum, sister or aunt, or perhaps you’re one of those husbands guaranteed to be hunting around the shops on Christmas Eve. Here’s how to avoid panic shopping with our ﬁnds for beauty, style and fashion for the women in your life….

Patek Philippe Ladies’ Calatrava watch in rose gold Price: £18,870, Patek Philippe www.patek.com

Playful promises ‘Natalia’ lingerie Bra: £40, Bottoms: £20 The Velvet Rose, 2 Florence Walk, Bishop’s Stortford www.playfulpromises.com

Biba Peacock box clutch Price: £59, House of Fraser www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Michael Kors pink tote bag Price: £220, House of Fraser www.houseoffraser.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 23

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Embellished box clutch Price:£45 Monsoon, uk.monsoon.co.uk

Nutribullet Pro Price: £149.99 Argos, intu Lakeside

Ipad cover: £12 Notebook: £8 Sainsbury’s www.sainsburys.co.uk

A Dozen Gingerbread Men Price: £7 Hotel Chocolat, Lion Yard, Cambridge www.hotelchocolat.com

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eastlife.co.uk | 27

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Hidden treasure offering an extensive range of contemporary jewellery for all budgets. Silver • freshwater pearls • semi-precious • handmade costume jewellery • Trollbeads. 116-118 High Street, Aldeburgh

by Appointment

Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 11am - 4pm 01728 454636

Mon 28th Dec - Thur 31st Dec Mon-Sat 9am - 6pm Sun 10.30am - 4.30pm

info@s il v e r s i l v e r j e we l l e r y.co.uk

Professional display from only £600

Whiteacres Elmside Emneth Wisbech PE14 8BQ

01945 463857 www.fireworksdisplayteam.co.uk

12 Dec East Life NYE Gala QP 2015_Layout 1 05/11/2015 13:18 Pag

New Year’s Eve at Ufford Park Gala Dinner Welcome in the New Year with friends and family, and dance the night away. 7:00pm until 1:00am includes: • a glass of bubbly on arrival • 3 course Gala Dinner • Live music by ‘Gold’ • Themed décor

The Perfect Venue

One of our most popular nights of the year!

Wedding or private venue party

At Back to the Garden, a magnificent vaulted 18th century threshing barn your guests can enjoy a true taste of local quality - from a simple buffet to a formal 4-course meal. Back to the Garden offers everything that a successful wedding day should have. Tel: 01263 715996 christopher@back-to-the-garden.co.uk www.back-to-the-garden.co.uk

Fakenham Road, Lethingsett, Nr Holt, NR25 7JJ 30 | Download Our App Today!

only

£89

per person Over 18’s only t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW

LIFESTYLE

BRING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH A

BANG Written by Amanda French

This New Year don’t sit at home watching the celebrations on the TV. It’s time to get out and enjoy the best your county has to offer, from dinner dances to fun ﬁestas, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a selection of our favourites... BEDFORDSHIRE

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Welcome in the New Year in style at The Hallmark Flitwick Manor with an afternoon cream tea on arrival, sit down candlelit New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance into the early morning, before retiring to one of the beautiful manor house bedrooms. A full English breakfast awaits you the following morning to start the new year. From £195 per person for a residential package or from £90 for the dinner package. Visit www.hallmarkhotels.co.uk for further information.

New Year’s Eve at Hidden Rooms (www.hiddenroomsonline.com) tickets cost only £10 if bought in advance. Enjoy one of the most famous events of the year at the venue as guests can enjoy a night of classic house music from 8pm – 2am.

For something a little more low-key, why not pick up tickets to ‘Vegas’ at The Horse and Groom in Clapham for only £25 per person. From 10pm until 4am guests will enjoy live music, buffet, gaming tables and of course, dancing. Visit www.horseandgroomatclapham.co.uk to ﬁnd out more and to book tickets Don your glad rags and join The Embankment in Bedford from 7pm to see out 2015 in style. There will be a delicious buffet served at 8pm plus a DJ and band playing until the small hours. There will even be bacon butties after midnight. Tickets cost £35 each. www.embankmentbedford.co.uk

Cambridge City Hotel (www.cambridgecityhotel.co.uk) is hosting a New Year’s Gala dinner for just £85 per person. Enjoy a five-course gala meal with a glass of champagne on arrival and another to see in the New Year at midnight. See in the New Year at Hotel Felix, Cambridge – a stylish Victorian villa set in three acres of gardens, just five minutes’ drive from Cambridge city centre. Renowned locally for its excellent food, the awardwinning Graffiti Restaurant, which overlooks the south facing terrace and gardens, serves delicious, inventive, modern British cuisine. The one-night (31 December) New Year’s Eve Gourmet Break costs from £185 per room (two sharing) including a four-course dinner with a glass of fizz on arrival and live jazz accompaniment, full English breakfast, parking and WiFi. www.hotelfelix.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 31

ESSEX

Stock Brook Country Club (www.stockbrook.com) is holding a Mansion Party for New Year’s Eve. With four rooms, two floors, a VIP lounge and champagne bar, this is one for the real party goer. VIP lounge access is from £85pp and regular tickets are £50pp. There will be a live band, as well as a DJ playing house till 2am. Savoury nibbles will be circulated all night too. For a more intimate affair why not pop into The Blue Boar in Abridge (www.theblueboarabridge.co.uk) and enjoy a three-course meal with prosecco for £59.95 per person. You’ll keep your table all night and enjoy live music and a DJ. There’s also bar tickets available for £10 each.

HERTFORDSHIRE

Looking to celebrate in style? The Grove (www.thegrove. co.uk) is hosting an event in their Amber room featuring a champagne reception and three-course meal, all accompanied by a live band, to keep the party going. Finally, as midnight approaches, guests will be shown outside to enjoy a fabulous fireworks display. Prices for the Amber event and overnight accommodation start at £770 per room. Redcoats Farmhouse (www.redcoats.co.uk) in Hitchin is putting on a New Year’s event for £95 per person. Guests are greeted with a canapé and bellini reception, followed by a four-course meal with coffee. There will be masks, crackers, party poppers and rocket balloons to enjoy as well as music and dancing in the party marquee from 9.30pm to the live band, The Miss Jones Jazz Band. All followed by fireworks at midnight to finish the night. 32 | Download Our App Today!

LIFESTYLE

SUFFOLK

Looking for a traditional New Year’s Eve celebration with fine food, fantastic wine and good company? The White Lion Hotel, Aldeburgh has a two-night package starts from £135pp. Set opposite Suffolk’s Heritage Coast, the hotel is the perfect setting for beautiful crisp seaside walks to start the New Year. Highlights of the package include a seven-course New Year’s Eve Extravaganza with gastronomic treats put together by Head Chef, Ben Hegarty. This black tie affair includes champagne, canapes, dinner and dancing to live entertainment. There’s even a piper to see in the New Year at midnight. Bucks Fizz breakfast is served the morning after and is then followed up by a three-course dinner in the hotel’s Brasserie Bleue. For more details visit www.whitelion.co.uk The Angel Hotel In Bury St Edmunds (www.theangel.co.uk) is hosting ‘A curious start to the New Year’. For £81pp you’ll receive a selection of canapés and champagne on arrival, followed by a four-course meal and coffee. Why not make a real night of it and stay over with rates from £143 per room? Ufford Park Hotel (www.uffordpark.co.uk) will be hosting a fabulous New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. The bubbly will be cracked open at 7pm for a glass on arrival, before guests sit down to a delicious three-course meal. The menu offers a superb choice for both meat lovers and vegetarians. The evening will be complete with entertainment from the hotel’s band ‘Gold’, who will have you up and dancing into 2016. The gala dinner and dance costs £89pp.

NORFOLK

Barnham Broom (www.barnham-broom.co.uk), just 10 miles west of Norwich is hosting a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner with a winter wonderland theme for £79.95 per person (stay from as little as £99 per person) which includes champagne on arrival, a five-course dinner, midnight piper to ring in the New Year and bacon rolls to finish the night. They’ll also be disco entertainment and a photographer on hand to record all those magical moments. Enjoy a Michael Buble tribute band at Dales Country House Hotel (www.dalescountryhouse.co.uk) in Upper Sheringham. A two night break starts from £309 per person. Included in the package is tea and a scone on arrival on New Year’s Eve in the afternoon. A predinner glass of champagne heralds the start of the evening, followed by a six-course meal. Musical entertainment continues and then the evening is rounded off with a buffet of cheeses and petit fours. The next day enjoy a continental breakfast and spend the day as you wish, exploring the local area. You’ll be served a Norfolk fayre dinner in the evening. A full English breakfast is included on your final day, before heading home after a break to remember. eastlife.co.uk | 33

LIFESTYLE

FROSTY DAY

WINTER WALKS Written by Amanda French

Work off a little of that turkey dinner on Christmas Day or Boxing Day this year by taking a winter walk through frosty landscapes and beautiful scenery. Here’s our top tips for where to go to soak in nature and enjoy the crisp weather. CAMBRIDGESHIRE

With specially selected shrubs and trees designed to provide vivid colour, textures and amazing scents, the gardens at The Anglesey Abbey come alive during the winter. The Himalayan Silver Birch Grove with brilliant white stems really stand out in the gardens. Pop along later in January to enjoy beautiful snowdrops. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/anglesey-abbey-gardens-and-lodemill to find out more.

BEDFORDSHIRE

Enjoy an invigorating walk across the Dunstable Downs this winter. Pass through beautiful countryside, iron age forts and burial mounds. More details can be found here: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunstable-downs-andwhipsnade-estate/trails/dunstable-downs-winter-walk HERTFORDSHIRE

Heartwood Forest might be famous for its beautiful bluebells in May, but there’s plenty of beauty to be found in the winter months. As the nation’s largest new native forest, there’s plenty of room for dogs to run around, kids to explore in the woods and build forts and for mum and dad to enjoy the views from atop the hill. There’s also free parking and The Wicked Lady Pub is just up to road for an after walk tipple or two. Visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk to find out more.

eastlife.co.uk | 35

Your Advertisement Proof

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• Alterations requested AFTER a proof has been signed off will incur a small charge. 36 | Download Our App Today! • Any pictures on this proof have been produced by a laser printer for visual purposes only. It is not a contract colour proof. The final published picture may show slight colour variation from the proof.

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LIFESTYLE

ESSEX

Follow the 23 mile circular Roach Valley Way for a real winter warmer of a walk. It passes through a variety of landscapes including the ancient woodlands of Hockley in the west and the coastal margins of the Roach and Crouch estuaries in the south and east. NORFOLK

Park at Burgh Castle and take a walk along the River Yare and Breydon Water through to Great Yarmouth via Angles Way. Take a detour up to Burgh Castle Roman Fort by taking a left through the gate besides the church and then bear right across the field. On a clear day you’ll be able to see right across Burgh Castle Marshes with stunning blue sky views. The walk is only about 4.8 miles, but isn’t circular, so you’ll need to get the bus back to the start – or if you are feeling particularly energetic, then walk back! SUFFOLK

For an easy wintertime meander, why not visit Framlingham Mere? With some of the best views of inland Suffolk, set in front of a beautiful ancient castle backdrop, this walk will help clear the cobwebs and if you are lucky, you’ll be able to spot some birds in the wet meadows. Just watch out for the mud. Come prepared with wellies and some warm clothes to wrap up in. Combine with a visit to the bustling market town, so you can stop off for a warming hot chocolate. Visit www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/reserves/framlingham-mere to find out more.

Amanda French lives in St Albans, and writes the blog www.anoseforfood.com, and runs her own PR agency www.fab-pr.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 37

LITTLE EAST

THE VERY BEST SANTA’S

GROTTOS

Make Christmas magical for little ones with these fun festive events!

December is here and if your little ones are already more excited than Santa’s elves, why not make their Christmas dreams come true with a visit to one of the region’s festive grottos.

This season Father Christmas has swapped his reindeers for a steam train as he jumps aboard the East Anglian Railway, Bure Valley Railway and Audley End Miniature Railway.

Christmas wouldn’t be complete without seeing the big man in red, and fortunately he’ll be making appearance all over the region. A Santa Spectacular arrives at Willows Activity Farm, St Albans, from 25 November to 24 December. Families can combine a visit to Santa with a whole day of family fun including making your own Christmas bear, watching the nativity story with farmyard animals and taking a spin around the ice rink. (adults £10, child £25, 0870 129 9718, www.willowsactivityfarm.com)

Taking place on 6, 13 and 20 December kids can visit Father Christmas with Thomas the Tank Engine and friends at the East Anglian Railway Museum, at Chappel Station, Essex. There will be unlimited rides on at least four characters, storytelling and interactive re-enactments. After fun on the trains, visit the man himself at the Goods Shed where you can receive a present. (adults £14, child £10, additional £5 for gift, 01206 242524, www.earm.co.uk) eastlife.co.uk | 39

DON’T MISS If you’re looking to make the most of the festive atmosphere and fancy an extended Christmas break, Centre Parcs Villages will magically transform into a Winter Wonderland this Christmas. The woodlands will be decked in a glittering array of lights and decorations, setting the ultimate festive atmosphere. There are plenty of seasonal activities such as the Christmas Treasure Trail, crafts, decorating, quizzes and a chance to meet Santa. (Breaks from 6 November – 3 January, prices from £359, 03448 267 723, www.centerparcs.co.uk)

40 | Download Our App Today!

LITTLE EAST

Once again Bure Valley Railway will be hosting its Santa Specials, on weekends from 5-24 December. Visitors can ride the steam train, take part in railway workshops and visit the grotto and receive a personalised present. (adults and children £15, 01263 733858, www.bvrw.co.uk)

“Embracing the traditions of Christmas can be a magical and educational experience for children.

”

Audley End Miniature Railway is renowned for its Santa Express. Jump aboard on 5, 6, 12, 13, 16 - 24 December and travel into the wood to visit Father Christmas and his Elves at his woodland Grotto. Look out for the cheeky elves who will be popping up along the journey! The visit includes a gift for every child, letter writing in the craft tent and complimentary tea, coffee or mulled wine for the adults. (£10 per person, 01799 542134, www.audley-end-railway.co.uk) Details of the miniature Santa Grotto at Blackthorpe Barn, near Bury St Edmunds are being kept tightly under wraps, but with comments from last year’s visitors such as “best grotto ever” and “an incredible experience” you can guarantee an amazing visit. Combine your trip with a visit to the Country Christmas Shop for everything you’ll ever need for your Christmas day all under one roof. (Grotto availability 18, 21 & 22 December, Country Christmas Shop open 28 November – 22 December, 01359 270238, www.blackthorpebarn.com) For an alternative grotto visit stop by Green Dragon Rare Breeds Farm & Eco Centre in Buckinghamshire, for a visit from Farmer Christmas, every weekend in December. He will greet children on his tractor in the new Soft Play Barn, where children can make a wish on a star and put it on the wishing tree. Stay the day and enjoy the rest of the farm meet the animals and pets corner, play in the Messy and Soft Play Barns and enjoy the fresh air in the outdoor play area. (child £8.95, 01296670444, www.greendragonecofarm.co.uk) If you have a massive Star Wars fan in the family, visit Ace Comics in Colchester to meet Dark Santa at the store on 19 December, 10am – 3pm. It’s a chance to meet your favourite star war characters in the Gallactic Grotto. (www.acecomics.co.uk)

Embracing the traditions of Christmas can be a magical and educational experience for children. English Heritage will be hosting Christmas from a bygone era this season. Audley End House will welcome a Victorian Christmas from 5-6 December. Step back in time to the 1800s and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian Christmas. Take your chance with festive games and have a go on a traditional ride on the lawn. Try some hot chestnuts from the fire, sing along to festive tunes and fill up on Christmas cheer with our seasonal punch. There will also be festive falconry, a Victorian magician and Father Christmas’ toy workshop to enjoy. Children can meet Father Christmas as he tells tales of Christmas past amidst the yuletide decorations. (adults £15.75, child £9.81, 0370 333 1183, www.english-heritage.org.uk) At Kentwell Hall, Long Melford, Suffolk, visitors to the Dickensian Christmas event will find a real Finnish Father Christmas in his ancient cottage, ready to give out presents to good boys and girls. Although Father Christmas is now associated with Santa Claus, old Father Christmas was the bringer of good cheer to the feast times. You can be sure of a warm welcome, a lovely occasion and fine advice for children. The event takes place 12-13 and 19-20 December and includes carols, crafts, music and much more. (Christmas wreath making available at extra cost, 01787 310207, www.kentwell.co.uk)

“Father Christmas was the bringer of good cheer!” Thursford has established itself as one of the most magical places for Christmas in the region and this year is no exception. Visit Father Christmas via a festive journey, which will encounter penguins and polar bears to see all the giant sized teddy bears ready to load Santa’s sleigh, past the busy elves, hard at work in the toy factory taking in the wonderful wrapping machine. Children will meet lots of fantasy characters including the snowman family but watch out for the snowballs before you make your way through the magical forest to reach Santa’s House where you meet the man himself and all his gifts for all the children that visit. (adults £9.50, child £15.50, 01328 878477, www.thursford.com) If that’s not enough to keep the family entertained visit www.eastlife.co.uk for festive days out including ice rinks, Christmas markets and pantomimes. eastlife.co.uk | 41

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

NORFOLK FISHING TRIPS

VISIT SANTA ON HIS

SPECIAL TRAIN

Get your family well and truly into the festive spirit with a trip to see Santa on his train. Along with his elves, musicians and magicians and lots of other things to do, you’ll be part of a big friendly Christmas Party on a train!

Unit 2, Docking Rural Workshops, Station Road, Docking, Norfolk PE31 8LT • • • • •

Website: www.norfolkfishingtrips.co.uk Twitter: @norfolkfishing Facebook: Norfolk Fishing Trips Tidal Transit Telephone: 01485 517610 Monday – Friday 9-5pm Email address: info@norfolkfishingtrips.co.uk

Enjoy the sheer exhilaration of powering across the water whilst admiring the beautiful coastline and experience some excellent off-shore fishing with our experienced skipper. We can take up to 10 passengers in comfort on our 12 metre luxury catamaran, Katie Louise. Fishing from Lowestoft October-March for Cod and Brancaster Staithe April-September for Mackerel, Bass and Skate, and when the season is right Tope.You can choose from our shorter or longer trips, with the longer trips including a buffet in the summer and roast pork dinner in the winter.

AINS RUNN

2015

N FESTIVE FU G ON

TR 0,22, 5,6,12,13,19,2 ber 23,24 Decem

Free heritage bus travel from Epping Underground Station and Ongar to North Weald Station included in ticket price

DON’T FORGET

Mince Pie Specials 27,28 & 31 December

New Year Gala 1,2 January 2016

www.eorailway.co.uk Epping Ongar Railway

@eorailway

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42 | Download Our App Today!

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05/11/2015 10:52

APRIL- SEPTEMBER 3.5 Hour- Fishing for Mackerel & Bass £35.00 person 8.5 Hour Fishing for Tope/Mackerel/Bass/Skate £85.00 per person including lunch. OCTOBER- MARCH 4 Hour- Father and Son Trips fishing for Cod- £40.00 per person 6 Hour- Fishing for Cod- £65.00 per person including lunch For a special gift which someone will really appreciate, vouchers can be purchased for all our trips.You may either select a date or have an open voucher, where the recipient chooses a suitable date themselves.

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27 crown street Brentwood, Essex CM14 4BA 01277230254 eastlife.co.uk | 43

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CHRISTMAS CARVERY Monday – Friday: 12noon – 2pm & 6.30pm – 9.45pm except Party Nights, Main Course £7.25 per person Sunday Christmas Carvery 12noon – 7pm Main Course £12.95 CHRISTMAS DAY SOLD OUT BOXING DAY CARVERY 2 Courses including Coffee & Party Pack £21.50 3 Courses including Coffee & Party Pack £24.50 Sittings 12 noon & 3pm, Children Under 11 years half price NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION Six Course Dinner with Coffee & Petit Fours followed by Disco Entertainment until 1am £65 per person, special rates on accommodation for any guests wishing to stay To make a reservation please call 01638 676392 or email Christmas@HeathCourtHotel.com

Deben carpets and Flooring, Unit N, Bristol Court, Betts Avenue, www.ingatestonehall.com | FANTASTIC CARVERY CHRISTMAS &Bungay, NEW YEAR 28 Wingfield Street, Suffolk, 1EZ Martlesham Heath, Ipswich. Suffolk IP5NR35 3RY CELEBRATIONS

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FOOD & DRINK

APPETISER

A taste of the latest food and drink news from around the region

BURY ST EDMUNDS FARMERS CLUB TO WELCOME RENOWNED HEAD CHEF Bury St Edmunds Farmers Club introduced its new head chef Jamie Scott to its members at a special event at the end of last month. Jamie Scott has joined the Club from award-winning restaurant The Willow Tree, in Bourn. Jamie’s younger brother Shaw will be working alongside him as Chef de Partie. Together they plan to introduce exciting new ideas and delicious dishes, many of which are regularly posted on the Club’s social media outlets.

AROMI TO OPEN THIRD CAFÉ IN CAMBRIDGE Cambridge’s successful Sicilian café has announced its expansion to Fitzroy Street. Located close to The Grafton Centre, Aromi number three will offer favourites such as perfect pizza slices, floury focaccia, spinanta and delicious arancini. The family run business will also be serving its sought after Sicilian coffee and homemade pistachio cake – if you haven’t tried this yet, we suggest you visit immediately! The third establishment comes hot on the heels of the Peas Hill and Bene’t Street branches, which has a huge fan base in the city, with queues regularly out of the door. “We’ve had a fantastic response to news of Aromi opening in Fitzroy Street,” says co-owner Francesco Genovese. “Residents are excited about having freshly made Italian specialities on their doorstep and local businesses view us as a great addition to the retail offering in and around The Grafton Centre.”

TICKING THE BOXES FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS WINE SHOPPING LIST Want to get it right this Christmas? Nick Adams, Master of Wine for WineTrust gives us his tips of what to pour at the table... Traditional Turkey In general for white avoid anything that is heavily oaked that will conflict with flavours. Equally you want a white, which has some weight, punch and fruit. Regarding a red, opt for a lighter bodied red, which is fruity but not too tannic – and serve it cool (10 minutes in the fridge) as this lifts the whole profile of the wine with the food. Basically any crisp, dry, unoaked white which you normally enjoy will work, but if you want to be a little different... For white wines ideal partners are the Lawson’s Dry Hills Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Mara Martin Godello from North West Spain or the classic Chablis Domaine Moreau-Naudet from Burgundy. Examples of good red partners are Fleurie Manoir du Carra, Valpolicella Allegrini or try the Little J Zweigelt from Austria. A good rosé option is the excellent Château Moutète from the south of France. For more wine tips download the Eastlife app or visit www.eastlife.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 45

The Imperial Wine Company

7 Trinity Street, Bungay, Suffolk, NR35 1EH www.imperialwine.co.uk sales@imperialwine.co.uk

01986 892911

We work our socks off to bring you THE most fabulous and affordable wines, the majority of which are sourced from small, independent-‐minded vineyards.

We believe that better and far more interesting products come from the smaller, often family-‐run vineyards, where painstaking care is taken over every step of the wine making process.

They are available to order over the phone, via email or else you can visit our excellent little Georgian-‐fronted shop in Bungay, Suffolk.

We ship and deliver our wine around the Waveney area, the UK and internationally using our meticulous and brilliant local courier partners.

The shop is open to visit Monday to Friday 0930/1730 and on Saturdays 0930/1600. Mention ‘Eastlife’ for an extra 5% off your first order.

NEW! TO GODMANCHESTER. The classy upmarket Grand Piano Café offering A unique experience in family dining always ensuring a warm welcome. Opening soon for evening meals from 6.30pm to 9.30pm (Thursday, Friday & Saturday Only).

Book ahead or drop in. New exciting full range menu. CATERING FOR PRIVATE FUNCTIONS, PARTIES & EVENTS ALCOHOLIC DRINK LICENCE PENDING Winter Opening Hours: 9am to 4pm from 24th October to 30th March 2016. 01480437080

www.thegrandpianocafe.co.uk

43 Cambridge Street, Godmanchester, Huntingdon, Cambridge, PE29 2AY

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FOOD & DRINK

COSY PUBS

Written by Amanda French

Sat by a roaring log fire, glass of mulled wine in hand while snow falls from the sky outside. There’s nowhere more cosy than a pub during the winter months. Here’s our guide to pubs that will warm the cockles of your heart. BEDFORDSHIRE

Enjoy a visit to The Falcon in Bletsoe (www.thefalcon atbletsoe.co.uk), your go-to pub for warming up a winter’s night. A roaring fire greets you on arrival and there’s plenty of nooks to get lost in and settle in for the evening. With a good reputation for seasonal fresh food, there’s also a great winter menu to choose from. The Flying Horse (www.theflyinghorse.co.uk) in Clophill is a great place to visit on a cold evening. With a crackling fire, great food and a welcoming atmosphere, this pub has something for everyone. CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Visit The Exhibition in Godmanchester (www.the exhibitiongodmanchester.com) for a traditional log fire and food from an award-winning chef. Sit by the fire, tuck

into a delicious dish, wash it down with a pint and relax. It’s the perfect way to spend a cold evening. A 1650s ale house on Chatteris Fen, The Anchor Inn (www. anchor-inn-restaurant.co.uk) in Ely oozes cosiness. Beamed ceilings, timber-framed walls and dark panelling frame a wood burner which warms the pub. ESSEX

The Fox and Goose pub (www.foxandgoosepub.co.uk), located in the pretty village of Cooksmill Green, is a centuries old beautifully restored pub. Here you can tuck into hearty dishes, sip on real ale or a glass of red while lounging in front of the log fire. A short distance from Chelmsford, Ongar and Brentwood, makes it an ideal place for relaxing after a day of shopping. The Bell Inn in Horndon-On-The-Hill (www.bell-inn. co.uk) is a 15th century coaching inn which has been in the same family for over 75 years. With a warm, friendly atmosphere, this pub has an open fire, numerous ales on hand pump and a great selection of wines by the glass. It also has a menu which changes daily and uses seasonal and local ingredients.

eastlife.co.uk | 47

CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU Available throughout December GLASS OF BUCKS FIZZ OR MULLED WINE ON ARRIVAL £26.50 per person (Buffet Menu’s Also Available) Christmas Day Menu - £69 per head DAILY SPECIALS

LIVE MUSIC

FAMILY FRIENDLY

/poacherelsworth

1 BROCKLEY ROAD, ELSWORTH CB23 4JS

01954 268167

Award winning food | Locally sourced ingredients Weekday 2 course lunch menu - £14.95 Warm friendly atmosphere Bury Lane, Sutton Gault | Tel: 01353 778537 www.anchorsuttongault.co.uk

Pam , Dave and The team welcome you to

The Kings Head

We are a family friendly pub in the heart of Apethorpe , we have a bar restaurant and coffee shop. Serving good home cooked food a selection of real ales and fine wines .With a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We have open fires a restaurant that seats up to 50 and we are also dog friendly. We have ample parking and courtyard to rear. Tel 01780 470 627 Www.kingsheadapethorpe.co.uk Facebook; Kingshead Apethorpe

Christmas at the King’s Head Ivinghoe

Festive Menu £35.00 from Monday 7th December Beautiful Banqueting Suite for that extra special occasion

01296 668388 www.kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk 48 | Download Our App Today!

FOOD & DRINK

HERTFORDSHIRE

The Wicked Lady in Wheathampstead (www.thewickedladypub.co.uk) offers a warm welcome with cosy nooks for comfy armchairs, open log fires and a selection of warming drinks on offer. They’ve recently launched a new menu, so there’s plenty of options for everyone. With a huge Inglenook fireplace burning every day during winter, The Bull in Watton (www.thebullwatton.co.uk) will certainly make you toasty. Dating back to the 15th century, this pub is a local favourite offering good food and plenty of choices of drinks. NORFOLK

The Banningham Crown (www.banninghamcrown.co.uk) is a traditional 17th century timbered inn in the quiet village of Banningham. Enjoy a warming log fire, five real ales on tap and bar snacks and meals to whet even the heartiest of appetites. Voted Good Pub Guide Pub of the year in 2015, the Rose and Crown in Snettisham (www.roseandcrown snettisham.co.uk) is a pub with twisting passages and

hidden corners, low beams, pavement floors and of course, log fires. Dogs are welcome here, so pop in after a country walk. SUFFOLK

The Lindsey Rose in Lindsey (www.redroseinn. co.uk), a family run pub, features a real large log fire surrounded by soft armchairs. Enjoy a pint or glass of wine in front of the fire at a pub that’s been a popular heart of the community for over 500 years. It’s also dog friendly, so a great place to pop into after a long walk in the countryside. Just two miles from the Suffolk coast, the Grundisburgh Dog (www. grundisburghdog.co.uk) in Grundisburgh is a great local pub to visit. It has retained most of its charm from the olden days, with cosy log burner. Visit for a menu featuring local and seasonal ingredients and stay for the ambience. Don’t stay at home when it’s dark and cold. Take a trip to a warming winter pub and enjoy ambience, a welcome to remember and great food and drink. Amanda French lives in St Albans, and writes the blog www.anoseforfood.com, and runs her own PR agency www.fab-pr.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 49

Photo credit: Etsy

FESTIVE FEAST Lets be honest Christmas is the only time of year where you can stuff your face without feeling guilty. So why not make the most of it? From party food to the big dinner itself, we’ve picked the best of the region’s locally grown and homemade produce for a seasonal stuffing.

SUPERFOOD CHOCOLATE – YES REALLY!

Not all Christmas chocolate has to be naughty. Feast away on Doisy & Dam chocolate packed with nature’s superfoods for added taste, texture and nutrition. The range of organic dark, milk and white chocolate are handmade in Norfolk and with flavours such Lemon, Poppy Seed & Baobab, Date & Himalayan Pink Salt and Quinoa, Smoked Tea & Vanilla, you’ll be spoilt for choice. It’s a great way to impress any vegan guests this Christmas! Price: Gift set £9.50 www.doisyanddam.com CHRISTMAS BUBBLES

Cava is fast becoming a popular alternative to Prosecco as it is light, fresh and great with food - perfect partnered with mince pies or served at festive dinner parties. If you’re throwing a seasonal soiree Codorníu Cuvée Barcelona Brut is the perfect welcoming drink. A rich, fruity Cava with notes of green apple, pear and citrus fruits, it is the perfect way to start the Christmas celebrations. It’s also ideal for a gift that won’t break the bank! Price: £12.99 Stockists: Sainsbury’s and Waitrose ALDER TREE CREAM ICE

Attracting over 50 Great Taste Awards to date, Alder Tree’s fruit cream ices are handmade at Alder Carr Farm in Creeting St Mary, Suffolk, using traditional artisan methods and the finest natural ingredients with exceptionally high fruit content. It makes the perfect addition to a mince pie or Christmas pudding! Price: £4.99 for 500ml tub www.alder-tree.co.uk 50 | Download Our App Today!

FOOD & DRINK

REACH FOR THE STOKES

Founded in 2004, tucked away in the Suffolk countryside of Rendlesham, Stokes is committed to using only the finest quality ingredients and all sauces, jams and condiments are handmade in small batches to ensure an authentic natural flavour. Whether it’s tomato ketchup, mayonnaise, festive cranberry sauce or mango chutney to accompany a great turkey curry on Boxing Day, there’s a Stokes to suit. Price: £8.99 for 3 gift pack Stockist: East of England Co-op

MADE TO SHARE

Christmas is a great time to bring classic snacks to the sharing board. Great for splitting with friends and family try Hill Top Smokehouse’s Cranberry Top Pork Pie. The Smith family farmed in Suffolk and Essex for over a century before taking on the butchery in Needham Market and smokehouse in Rayleigh to enable them to create Hill Top Smokehouse. Made from local ingredients the pie is packed with festive flavours. Price: £3.99 Stockist: East of England Co-op

THE TASTE OF CHRISTMAS

The reputation of Legg’s Bakery’s mince pies is becoming almost legendary across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. With over 120,000 handmade mince pies sold in East of England Co-op stores last year, its best to stock up early to avoid disappointment. Price: £1.69 for pack of 6

CHRISTMAS CRISPS

When it comes to Christmas snacking, Fairfields Farm Crisps has it in the bag with its delicious Turkey, Sage & Onion flavour crisps. Created on a farm in Wormingford, Essex, it promises the succulent flavour of delicious Kelly Bronze roast turkey and the distinctive taste of fragrant sage and punchy onion, these taste tingling snacks are a wonderfully local choice for festive snacking and parties. www.fairfieldsfarmcrisps.co.uk COLE’S CHRISTMAS PUDDINGS

CHRISTMAS GARNISHES

Spice up your Christmas Day trimmings with Ely based, Bourne & Wallis’ Pickled Red Cabbage or Pickled Onions, made from natural ingredients, including freshly picked vegetables grown predominantly in Norfolk, herbs, spices and fine traditional vinegars. Crisp and crunchy, the red (very festive) cabbage is immersed in light tangy vinegar and makes the perfect partner to your turkey, or Boxing Day cold meats. Price: £2.20 for 360g Stockist: East of England Co-op

Located on the EssexCambridgeshire border Cole’s have been making Christmas puddings since 1939 so it’s fair to say they know a thing or two about making an extra special treat. New for this season is the Cole’s Stollen Christmas Pudding - the marzipan centre and Amaretto almond liqueur in the pudding is a treat when served with a simple lightly whisked cream, crème fraiche or traditional custard. Price: £7.99 www.colespuddings.com eastlife.co.uk | 51

Georgian Coffee House The Georgian Coffee House is situated on the Thoroughfare in the heart of Woodbridge.

2ye5th It’s our

A traditional tea room, coffee house, café and restaurant serving breakfast, morning coffee, light lunches,

afternoon tea and homemade cakes. Good quality ingrediants, waitress service, good value and comfortable surroundings make for a perfect visit.

t: 01394 387292 e: info@georgiancoffeehouse.co.uk

www.georgiancoffeehouse.co.uk 47a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, IP12 1AH

Blackthorpe Barn Shop

Crafts

Trees

Grotto

Cafe

30 Oct-27 Nov, 14-15, 21-22, plus natural 21 Nov-22 Dec 30 Oct-22 Dec 10am-5pm 28-29 Nov, decorations 11am-4pm 10am-4pm, 28 Nov-22 Dec, 5-6, 12-13 Dec 28 Nov-22 Dec Tickets available 10am-5pm at 9am-5.30pm 10am-5pm 9am-5.30pm online only Crafts weekends See website for wreath/garland/mobile/collage workshops and Kids’ Christmas Festival

www.blackthorpebarn.com

J45 A14. Rougham, 3 miles from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 9HZ

"Where Quality & Freshness Counts" Here at Calcott Hall we grow a variety of different crops to bring you as much home grown produce as we are able to grow. We're a small family run business, passionate about fresh, local produce and quality products and we want you to share our passion too! NS Risdon, a top quality traditional butcher is located in store. With full traceability his meat is superb. We also now have a cheese counter serving a wide range of British and continental cheeses. Something for every taste and occasion!

VISITING FISH VAN ON FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS Monday : Closed Tuesday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Wednesday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Thursday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Friday (Late Night) : 8.30am – 6.30pm Saturday : 8.30am – 5.30pm Sunday : 10am – 2pm

www.calcotthall.com Calcott Hall Farm Shop, Ongar Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9HS

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Tel: 01277 264164

Our as Christm is rn Tree Ba EN P NOW O

TOP 5

TOP

With everything you need to serve the ultimate festive feast under one roof, we pick our top 5 farms shops in the region CALCOTT HALL FARM SHOP, BRENTWOOD

A family run business for over 40 years, Calcott Hall features produce from 60 regional suppliers. The shop is stock piled with fresh fruit and veg, an in-house butcher, a huge choice of bread (the sundried tomato bread is a must-try) and selection of cakes for sweet cravings. Tel: 01277 264164 www.calcotthall.com FOXHOLES FARMS SHOP, HERTFORD

Recently shortlisted as a finalist in the 2016 FARMA awards, Foxholes features an extensive range of local and regional produce. A foodies heaven, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find everything from groceries and preserves to local micro-brewery beer and homemade pies. Make sure you stop by the cheese and deli counter. Tel: 01992 552 900 www.foxholesfarm.com GOG MAGOG HILLS FARM SHOP, SHELFORD BOTTOM

Located a few miles south of Cambridge, a warm welcome awaits at this fabulous farm shop. Fresh quality produce is guaranteed in the farm shop and deli and a skilled team of butchers are on hand to share their tips and cooking advice. The outdoor Shack, a quaint sheltered eating area, regularly hosts a number of events. Tel: 01223 248 352 www.gogmagoghills.com WALSINGHAM FARM SHOP, LITTLE WALSINGHAM

Housed in a beautiful converted flint barn, the farm shop serves up the very best of Norfolk with 75 per cent of produce sourced locally. The butchery counter features a great selection of locally reared meat, while the open kitchen is at the heart of the shop and produces a delicious selection of pastries, pies, pates and more. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also desserts and groceries aplenty. Tel: 01328 821877 www.walsingham.co HALLOW TREES FARM SHOP, SEMER, IPSWICH

A roadside cart in 1986, Hollow Trees has grown significantly over the years. Now a 140-acre farm, its vegetables are picked daily, the meat is home-reared and there is home-baked bread and local and regional foods, wine and cider. Tel: 01449 741247 www.hollowtrees.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 53

FOOD & DRINK

COCKTAIL HOUR Whether you want to wow guests with your mixology skills or need a festive cocktail fast, Ashley Moore, cocktail expert from The Snug (www.thesnugbar.co.uk) gives us some tips for creating Christmas drinks with pizzazz for your celebrations. When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve invited everyone you know to pop around for some Christmas cocktails and mince pies, one of the most important things is making sure you can create cocktails easily and en masse, without affecting their quality. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a few suggestions of tasty drinks which are simple to prepare on the day: ON ARRIVAL: WARMING HOT ITALIAN CIDER

Ingredients: Half fresh apple diced 25ml Vodka 25ml Amaretto 75ml Pressed apple juice Method: Heat up using a saucepan or a steamer from a coffee machine. Serve in a brandy glass. SOMETHING WITH A LITTLE SPARKLE: POMEGRANATE BELLINI

Ingredients: 25ml Pomegranate Juice 12.5ml Grenadine Topped with Prosecco and garnished with a few fresh pomegranate seeds WIND DOWN WITH A MINCE PIE MARTINI: Ingredients: 10ml Brandy 10ml Apple Schnapps 10ml Cassis 10ml Goldschlager 50ml Apple Juice Method: Shake all ingredients and double strain into a Martini. Garnish with cinnamon stick All of these cocktails are real crowd pleasers...

eastlife.co.uk | 55

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(Choose your ideal treatment combination) Summer Offer: 2 Treatments for £55 or 3 Treatments for £75 • Gel manicure • Full Body Scrub • Gel Pedicure24 CH U RCH S T, WOODBRIDGE • Eyebrow Shape & Lash Tint www.bathshebaspa.co.uk 24 CH U RCH S T, WOODBRIDGE 01394 • Perfect Bikini Line (Hot Wax) • Pretty New feet (Callus Peel) 24388813 CHURCH ST, WOODBRIDGE 01394 388813 www.bathshebaspa.co.uk • Half Leg01394 & Underarm • XEN TAN (Manual) 388813Wax www.bathshebaspa.co.uk • REN Express Facial

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AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTIONS NOW IN Stockists of Gardeur trousers, Harley knitwear, Avoca coats, Bianca separates, and many more. Sizes 10-18 The Old Pharmacy, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk CO10 9JQ Opening hours: Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm 01787 312182 - info@evestclair.com

56 | Download Our App Today!

Su Bath

(Choos Summ 2 Trea * * * * * * * * *

G G P H R Fu E P X

24 Ch

FASHION

NEW YEAR TRENDS New Year’s Eve is the perfect excuse to get dressed up and splurge on a new outfit. From faux fur to sexy sparkles, make an entrance with our stylish picks…

CLOCKWISE: GERRY WEBER EDITION

Gilet: £85 Blouse: £55 Trousers: £130

(faux fur) (cotton) (leather)

MISS SELFRIDGE

Dress: £79 Stockist: Miss Selfridge

TAIFUN (LEFT MODEL)

NEW LOOK DRESS

Blouse: Cardigan: Trousers:

Dress: £34.99 Stockist: New Look

£45 £65 £95

TAIFUN (RIGHT MODEL)

Coat: Shirt: Skirt:

£170 £65 £75

Stockist: Jarrolds & Son, Norwich www.gerryweber.com

PRIMARK JUMPSUIT

Jumpsuit: £17 Brooch: £2.50 Stockist: Primark AUDREY SEQUIN DRESS

Dress: £325 Stockist: Phase Eight eastlife.co.uk | 57

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Mii Myself and Eyebrows

Mii eyebrows - high definition long lasting tint 45 min: £20

Make Mii Over

Mini make up session using the Mii range 45 min: £20

Dare to Dazzle

Lifting facial using VITAGE Enzyme Mask 30 min: £28

The Cherry on Top

GELeration, the long lasting gel polish 30 min: £20 Offers available until the end of December 2015

Whilst you’re here, don’t forget your Christmas vouchers, gifts & treatments, and spoil yourself or your loved ones. 44 Tackett Street, Ipswich, IP4 1BA

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DERMASPA NOW OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

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EAST ANGLIA’S

LARGEST FOOTWEAR LARGEST OUTLET

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INFOOTWEAR HINGHAM OUTLET

SPECIALISING IN WIDE FIT COMFORT

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RULES OF

ENGAGEMENT Things you should know before engagement ring shopping Christmas is a time for love and romance so it comes as no surprise that December is a popular month to propose. With romantic settings, family occasions and present giving, there are plenty of opportunities to pop the question. If you’re thinking of surprising the one you love this Christmas, read our tips for picking the perfect diamond. STEAL HER STYLE

Before you head out to the jewellers, it’s important to know your loved ones style. This will help you eliminate options quickly. Ask her siblings and friends for advice, or if you’re planning to keep it secret keep a careful eye on the jewellery she wears. Note the colour and shapes. Is it simple or vintage? METAL MATTERS

You’ll quickly find bands go beyond gold and silver. They’re a variety of metals to choose from. Platinum is a popular choice as it’s extremely durable. For a cheaper alternative consider palladium. Gold comes is a selection of colours such as white, yellow and rose. BUDGET BOTHER

Forget the two-months salary myth and find a ring well within your means. After all, you’ll want some spare cash to put towards the wedding. Experienced jewellers will be able to advise on shape, metals and stones best for your budget. THE 4 C’S

When shopping for a diamond it’s important to remember the 4 c’s; cut, colour, clarity and carat. In simple terms, it is the cut that enables a diamond to make the best use of light, while the colour is graded according to a GIA scale – the clearer the more expensive. The clarity is a description of its internal purity. With fewer imperfections within the stone, the diamond is more rare and has a higher value. A carat is the weight of a diamond – more weight, more money.

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WEDDINGS

SIZE IT UP

It can be difficult to guess the ring size of your fiancéto-be so don’t feel bad if it has to be resized. However, if a ring has to be dramatically resized it can alter the style or need changing all together. Try her rings on your finger before shopping for an indication of size. SPARKLE STYLE

Karra Wilmott, a diamond expert and author at Guru + Go, gives us a sneak peak to the hottest cuuretnt engagement ring trends: HALO

This seasons most popular engagement design has to be the Halo. As worn above by Princess Sofia, it is a modern twist on the cluster. Halo designs can feature any shaped central diamond; however the Round Brilliant does remain the most popular choice due to its high dispersion. The central diamond then features a ‘halo’ of smaller diamonds, which are used to set off the central stone. SOLITAIRE

The solitaire remains one of the most popular choices for couples. It is classically elegant and timeless, and will work with all your other jewellery. The most popular cut is the Round Brilliant; however fancy cuts, such as the Princess, Marquise and Pear are on the rise. This design can be modernised by the addition of diamond set shoulders, which can increase the sparkle and beauty. TRILOGY

The Trilogy still remains a strong contender, though it does have many variables. Some designs feature a larger stone to the centre with smaller stones on the sides or all the stone could also be the same size. It is also growing in popularity to have fancy cut stones in the design. GEMSTONE SET CLUSTER

Possibly due to the Duchess of Cambridge’s sapphire and diamond beauty, or perhaps due to people wanting to edge away from the norm, Gemstone set cluster rings are gaining popularity. If you take a look at any of the major multiple jewellers in the UK they all have a good selection - ranging from rubies to emeralds to sapphires for the more precious stones; though Amethysts and Topaz are also very popular.

eastlife.co.uk | 61

Suffolk IP13 9QG sales@dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk www.dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk

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DreamMaker Bathrooms Ivy Farm, The Green, Saxtead (Nr Woodbridge) Suffolk IP13 9QG sales@dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk www.dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk

Anything from full restoration/makeover to isolated chips and repairs in any colour. Any cooking range, cosmetic surface repairs and resurfacing all carried out in situ. We also makeover kitchen cupboards and worktops.

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MOTORING

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS THE...

AUDI A4 SALOON

FACTS AT A GLANCE MODEL: Audi A4 Saloon SE PRICE: £33,565.00 OTR with options ENGINE: 2 litre TDI ultra 150 PS 6 Speed PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds and on to a

top speed of 130mph

CO2 EMISSIONS: 99g/km COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 74.3mpg

I really wish I could say that I am going to buy myself an Audi A4 for Christmas, because the new model which the first customers will now be playing with is gadget heaven and the most ‘connected’ model in the Audi range. The saloon and Avant (estate) models have 18 per cent more technology than the previous A4 and even include Apple Car Play, which will play telephone messages through the audio system in caller’s own voices. Owners who want to project their car even further into the future can opt to replace the analogue dials in the binnacle with the all-digital Audi virtual cockpit launched in the TT and R8 sports cars and now also available for the Q7 SUV. The introductory SE models include the standard headlamps, three-zone climate control, cruise control, rear parking sensors and the Audi smartphone interface, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto platforms and displays smartphone contact and information such as navigation mapping on the A4’s seven-inch colour MMI screen. Oh but I could wax lyrical for endless paragraphs on the new A4’s exceptional technology which you are more likely to find on the larger luxury A8. Suffice to say that highlights of the options list include a 19-speaker, 755-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system with 3D sound, Audi Entertainment mobile incorporating two detachable touch-screen tablet computers built into the rear seats,

the Audi phone box bringing two separate Bluetooth connections and wireless smartphone charging and MMI Navigation plus with a larger 8.3-inch monitor and fingertip-responsive touchpad. This ninth edition of the compact executive saloon which first entered the market in 1972 is up to 120kg lighter and up to 21 per cent more economical than its predecessor. This benefits new owners as the seven advanced petrol and diesel engines will produce faster stronger performance in line with impressive fuel consumption and CO2 emissions that drop as low as 100g/km. With a completely new platform, the A4 is everything you would expect to find from an Audi. It has precise steering, it takes corners as if on tram lines and has great acceleration for fast safe overtaking. The Audi quattro all-wheel-drive is available in the 2 litre petrol 252PS and 2 litre diesel 190PS four-cylinder units and both of the 3 litre diesel engines. For company car drivers Benefit in Kind figures range from 17 to 23 per cent. One change which is distinctly less dramatic is the range pricing, which despite major equipment gains will start from £25,900 on the road. Let’s face it, most car journeys, particularly for those who clock up a lot of mileage, tend to be stationary, sitting in interminable traffic jams. And this is where the Audi A4 will beat the competition. What better when stationary, than to be able to play with the innumerable gadgets, in safe circumstances of course. And what a great gadget for a Christmas present! Hint hint! Article by Sue Cooke. Follow her on Twitter at @cookecars

eastlife.co.uk | 63

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CONSUMER

MARTIN LEWIS HELP TO BUY

It’s a no brainer for every first time buyer – from 1 December Help to Buy ISAs become available. Here when you save for a deposit the government adds 25% on top. Nothing else comes close to this, so you want to get the maximum you can in there. Let me run through the foundations in 10 steps. 1. Every first-time buyer aged 16 or over can open. one. To count, you must not have owned or part owned a residential property, in or out of the UK, whether bought or inherited. 2. It’s an individual product – couples are treated. separately. If you’re in a couple and are both first time buyers, you can get one each. 3. It can be used for any property type with any mortgage. It can be used on homes costing up to £250,000 or up to £450 within inner and outer London boroughs. It’ll work on any home mortgage (so not buy-to-let), including shared ownership and you won’t need to get a mortgage from the same firm your Help to Buy ISA’s with. 4. You can save tax-free up to £1,200 in the first month, then up £200 a month after that. If you’ve less, you can contribute less (if the provider’s terms allow it) and it’ll still work. Missing a month is fine, though you’ll still only be able to put in a maximum of £200 the next month. 5. The state adds 25% tax-free to whatever’s in the ISA when you use it for a deposit. The 25% is only added at the point you use the ISA money as a deposit (it must be by 2030) and it’s added to everything in the ISA, including interest. 6. Only one Help to Buy ISA per person is allowed, but you can transfer it to up the rate. Unlike cash ISAs, where you can open a new one each tax year, you’re only allowed one Help to Buy ISA, but you can continue to add to it each tax year. Yet you can

always transfer it to another provider if their interest rate drops. 7. You can’t contribute to a Help to Buy ISA and a cash ISA in the same year. Though nothing stops you opening a Help to Buy ISA if you have cash ISAs from previous years, or a stocks and shares ISA from the same year. If you already have a cash ISA there are ways around this - see www.mse.me/helptobuyisa for full help on what to do. 8. If you decide not to buy a property – you can take the money out. You can take cash out of a Help to Buy ISA whenever you want – you just miss the bonus. It stays tax free and you get the interest. 9. It’s worth doing even if you’re buying imminently. The minimum amount you need to get a bonus is £1,600 (you would get £400). This takes ‘three months’ to put in, because you can deposit £1,200 in month one, then up to £200 each month after. 10. The best-paying Help to Buy ISAs Even though the Government will pay the bonus, you still want to earn maximum interest as well, so choosing the right ISA is important. At the time of writing Barclays, Lloyds, Nationwide, NatWest, Santander and Virgin Money have committed to offering Help to Buy ISAs, but no rates are out. Every time a new rate is published, I’ll be analysing the best buys and putting them at www.mse.me/helptobuyisa eastlife.co.uk | 65

VISIT OUR HALSTEAD SHOWROOM Bentalls Farm, Sudbury Road, Halstead Essex, CO9 2RR

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CONSUMER

IN THE

SPOTLIGHT WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WORKING THE EAST? As I have lived here virtually all my life, this is a difﬁcult one to answer, however the pace of life and general friendliness of everyone makes most days enjoyable.

Ahead of the busy Christmas season we spoke to Chris Ellis, managing director at Dipples, one of Norfolk’s oldest family owned jewellers. LOCATION: Swan Lane, Norwich and Norwich Street Dereham COMPANY BACKGROUND: Dipple & Son Ltd, known as Dipples, was founded in 1878. A ﬁfth generation family jewellery business, it is now the oldest continually owned jewellers in Norwich. We have a wide and varied selection of diamonds, gold, silver, watches and giftware; East Anglia’s largest and most comprehensive selections. WHAT AREAS DO YOU COVER IN EAST OF ENGLAND? We now cover the whole of the country via our website, www.dipples.com. However, most of our customers are within the Eastern region, and within that primarily in Norfolk and North Suffolk. WHAT MAKES YOUR COMPANY SPECIAL? Everything! We try to be a breath of fresh air when it comes to jewellery and watches. I believe that all customers are important and we strive to carry that ethos throughout the business.

WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO VISIT IN THE REGION? My favourite place? I probably have two, before my son was born my wife and I used to visit a small village in Cambridgeshire called Bolnhurst and we stayed in a great B&B, which used to be the village school. It was a lovely location and it always felt a million miles from everywhere! More recently we have holidayed at Centre Parcs in Elveden, which is brilliant with children and a great place to unwind. WHAT EVENTS ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2016? As we sponsored one of the Break Dragons this year I am looking forward to the auction. It will be great to see how much money is raised, and see how much my Dragon fetches! Outside of England, every year we go to Basle in Switzerland and view the latest collections of watches and jewellery. Out of all my trips abroad it is probably my favourite! WHAT CAN EASTLIFE READERS EXPECT FROM DIPPLES NEXT YEAR? More of the same! We are always on the look out for new ranges. We are expanding our range of coloured stone jewellery into more and more unusual and rare stones. Without doubt we have Norwich’s ﬁnest collection! www.dipples.com

eastlife.co.uk | 67

Stanway, Colchester CO3 0JT

Marketing Suite Now Open Welcome to Oliver’s Grove Oliver’s Grove offers an exceptional collection of luxurious 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes situated in the well connected village of Stanway, on the outskirts of historic Colchester. Introducing a superb collection of homes from award-winning house builder Hopkins Homes. Oliver's Grove is ideally located for local facilities and offers easy access to Colchester and the A12, as well as great rail connections to London Liverpool Street, at Oliver’s Grove you won’t have to compromise. The Government backed Help to Buy* Scheme is available on all released properties along with Hopkins Homes’ tailored Part Exchange Scheme* to help you make your dream new home become a reality.

Part Exchange & Help to Buy Available*

Current availability from £269,995

Marketing Suite open Thursday - Monday, 10am - 5pm. For further information please call: 07435 961662

Call:

01394 446860 • hopkinshomes.co.uk

Computer generated images of Oliver’s Grove. *Subject to terms & conditions. Prices correct at time of press.

HOME & GARDEN

GRANNY FLATS BACK IN FASHION! Its official, the granny flat is making a comeback. We speak to the experts to find out why... The number of properties with a separate annexe for family members has increased by more than a third in the past two years, according to The Valuation Office Agency. The research shows that it’s the baby boom generation who are the most likely to need extra accommodation. Both for younger family members who are unable to get on the property ladder themselves, and also dependent elderly parents, largely due to the increasing costs of long-term care. Strutt & Parker’s Housing Futures echoes this trend, identifying the increase in multi-generational living as a key shift in the property market. In its latest annual survey results, 15% of respondents who intend to move in the next five years anticipated living as a ‘The Waltons’ - with multiple generations all under one roof - compared with 10% the previous year. Stephanie McMahon, Head of Research at Strutt & Parker said: “This is a trend we see increasing over the next decade, with rising house prices bringing several generations together under one roof. We call this tribe

of homeowners ‘The Waltons’, with at least three generations living together, but this could also extend to households that share their living space with friends, extended family or the unmarried partners of children.” The Strutt & Parker Housing Futures research also highlighted the need for more flexible family homes to suit homeowners’ evolving needs and identified the ‘Yo-yo house’ as a possible solution. Stephanie continues: “The ‘Yo-Yo house’ focuses on flexibility: growing, contracting and evolving with its occupants, offering them different space use over their lifetime. “For example, the footings will allow a garage space, not only to be converted to a single-storey living space, but to two or three storeys – the cost of retro-fitting being higher than the cost of future-proofing at the build stage.”

eastlife.co.uk | 69

Richard Allington Kitchens FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES & SURVEYS

We now offer a supply only made to measure service at superstore prices Tel: 01953 459817 Mob: 07754 630453 14 Connaught Road, Attleborough

HOME & GARDEN

KITCHEN QUICK FIX

If you’ve agreed to cook Christmas dinner, but are now suddenly thinking your kitchen may not be up to the task, read our budget busting ideas for giving the heart of the home a brand new look.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Lighting is important in any room and can totally transform an entire space. 2015 has seen light fittings shake off their decorative detail and go back to basics with industrial style pendants and hanging bulbs. The trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere for 2016 either. Pendants are best hung over breakfast bars and dining tables to enhance the dining experience.

SPLASH OF PAINT

If a complete overhaul isn’t on the cards, a lick of paint can do wonders to kitchen cabinets. Pick colours that complement counter tops or try light shades for upper units and darker for the lower. Grey tones are huge this season and will instantly give your kitchen a sleek and stylish look.

FITTINGS AND FIXTURES

One of the quickest and most cost effective ways of updating the kitchen is replacing cabinet handles and drawer pulls. You’ll be surprised how this simple change can have a huge impact. Country kitchens should opt for cup handles, while contemporary kitchens are suited to ‘D’ shapes. If you want to give cabinets a trendy update, copper accessories are having a style moment.

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Quality Flooring, Wall Coverings & Fabrics for a Designer Finish in your Home • Vast Range of Carpets, Vinyls, Real Wood, Laminates and Karndean BRINTONS • RYALUX • WESTEX • PENTHOUSE AND MANY MORE • New – Amtico Flooring Display • Specialist Service and Advice • Free Estimates • Fitting by our Experienced Staff • Designer Fabrics SANDERSON • HARLEQUIN • PRESTIGIOUS • Curtain Measurement and Making Service • Wallpaper Library • Display of Stone and Travertine floor tiles. • Specialists in Traditional Oak Flooring

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BEAM ENDS

From initial design to final installation and completion, our kitchens are specifically and individually created to your needs from the finest materials and finished by hand too. We specialise in hardwood and granite worktops. Call us now for further details and a guide to prices. Traditionally-designed and Timelessly-beautiful Kitchens PLEASE QUOTE EASTLIFE ON ALL ORDERS & ENQUIRIES

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HOUSE & HOME

FESTIVE FLAIR

If you’ve left it all far too late for DIY, subtle and stylish décor for the big day will be your saviour. Keep everything fresh and light with a little help from nature. Hang garlands with pinecones, light Christmassy scented candles and add mistletoe or fir to table placements for a great smelling and stylish setting.

APPLIANCE ACCESSORIES

There’s no need to over stuff cupboards with tableware and crockery, use it as a decorative item. With a little help from the bake-off phenomenon it’s more fashionable than ever to leave your mixing bowls and jugs for all to see. Baking accessories laid on worktops, jars filled with fresh flowers and stacks of pretty bowls done right, will give the kitchen a homely and welcoming feel. If you’re a self-declared neat freak and that sounds too messy, upgrade appliance to modern alternatives. Toasters and kettles now go well beyond stainless steal.

TRENDY TILES

If you’ve looked at the same drab kitchen tiles for years it may be time for a change. Refitting splash back tiles is generally a small, easy to tackle area that won’t break the bank. Brick tiles in both gloss or matt will give a kitchen a stylish edge.

MAKE IT COUNT

Changing a worktop may not be as expensive as you might think. Yes, it can require a fair bit of work but it’s certainly easier than a whole re-fit. Laminate options are far cheaper than treated wood and there are now also plenty of stone replicas that are half the price as the real thing.

eastlife.co.uk | 73

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Chimneys £46.50 inc

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until June

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Grange Farm Stoves & Kitchens At Grange Farm Stoves & Kitchens, we supply the finest range of wood burning and multi fuel stoves available, Charnwood, Morso, Clearview, Stovax, Chesney’s. We have a stove to suit all taste and needs – and you will be assured of a warm and friendly welcome when you visit our showroom. We also install bespoke wood and hand-painted kitchens by Charles Yorke and German-made contemporary kitchens by Schuller.

Open: Monday – Saturday, 9am – 4.30pm Tel: 01763 209236 Mobile: 07817 060854 Email: enquiries@grangefarmstoves.co.uk Web: www.grangefarmstoves.co.uk Email: grange-farm-kitchens@hotmail.com Web: www.grangefarmkitchens.co.uk Heritage Barn, Grange Farm, Newmarket Road, Flint Cross, Royston, Herts SG8 7PR By Road – From Junction 10 of the M11, follow A505 towards royston for 4.6 miles. Grange Farm is on your right.

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SIMPLE HAS NEVER LOOKED SO STYLISH PERSONAL SERVICE – QUALITY PRODUCTS – ATTENTION TO DETAIL eastlife.co.uk | 75

B No ury N w o St pe Edm EW n. See unds we Sh bsi ow te f roo or m de tai ls

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HOME & GARDEN

With New Year’s eve just around the corner it is the perfect time to start thinking about any changes that you would like to make throughout your home in the New Year, and what better place to start than by looking at the top interior trends for 2016? Danielle Harris, founder of Oak Furniture Superstore (www.oakfurnituresuperstore.co.uk) has put together some tips for the looks that will be popular in the New Year, and how you can incorporate these into your home. MIX AND MATCH MATERIALS

Mixing oak and plastic is great for blending designer and traditional styles, especially when using chairs in a bold colour or funky shape, and looks fabulous in both kitchens and dining rooms. You could even choose to have chairs in a variety of colours to create a truly eye-catching dining space. Oak and metal dining tables will also be on-trend in 2016 as they ﬁt perfectly within the popular industrial theme. A bold and striking choice, an oak and metal dining table is certain to be the focus of your dining space, and can be perfectly complemented with both oak and fabric chairs.

FURNITURE TOP TRENDS

FOR 2016

RELAXING GREY BEDROOMS

Grey is the ultimate calming colour, and it is difﬁcult to ﬁnd a more perfect tone for your bedroom, which is why we will see lots of it appearing in bedrooms throughout 2016. Whether you want to paint your whole bedroom grey, add items of grey bedroom furniture, or accessorise with grey lampshades and bedding, featuring this tone in your bedroom is the perfect way to make this room current in 2016. OAK AND PAINTED DINING FURNITURE

Your bedroom isn’t the only room where you should be using grey tones in 2016; it is also a fantastic choice for dining furniture when paired with oak. Oak and grey dining tables, chairs and sideboards look chic and stylish and are perfect for creating a classic contemporary theme. For a more classic look, oak and cream dining furniture has been a top trend throughout 2015, and its popularity is set to continue into 2016. If you are looking to brighten and freshen up your kitchen or dining room, an oak and cream dining set is the perfect option and suits most styles and colour schemes. We hope that you feel inspired to try out some of these trends in your own home, and wish you all a merry Christmas and happy New Year.

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HOME & GARDEN

PICK THE PERFECT POT PLANT Award-winning garden designer Kate Gould tells us how to make the most of houseplants Growing and keeping houseplants does require a certain amount of dedication and in our centrally heated modern homes with temperatures at tropical highs it is dry air rather than warm that can play havoc with your Poinsettia. Most house plants require bright light but not direct sunshine and often need far less water than you think so learning to judge your plants needs rather than watering on a regular basis whether the plants need it or not is very important. Many plants are grown warm and can suffer a real shock when taken from the shop, out into the cold and then into your warm home again. Wrap them up warm – it sounds daft but if you get a plant home and it sheds its leaf after leaf in rapid succession it is likely that it has had a complete shock that it probably wont recover from. Some plants to try (in order of difficulty): CHALLENGING: Poinsettia; the festive season would not be the same without these rich red plants providing colour and cheer but this member of the Euphorbia family is prone to changes in temperature so transport it carefully from the store to your home (ideally they need a minimum temperature of 13-15°C) so make sure the top is wrapped gently in paper to protect the plant from cold winds. Once set at home water only sparingly. Too much and the plant will simply rot away. As a general rule if the top of the compost is dry then it is time to water and misting them to create humidity and replicate their natural environment will help. EASIER THAN YOU THOUGHT: Phalaenopsis; most people think of Orchids as tricky to grow but given the right conditions they will flower for months on end. Phalaenopsis, or Moth Orchid, like many houseplants like light but not direct sunlight

(an east or west facing windowsill is ideal) as they are naturally woodlanders. You will need special Orchid compost for these plants and preferably clear pots as their roots like to see daylight. Warmth for growth is a key to flowering success and well as the general health of the plant so temperatures of about 16-19°C are ideal but take care to avoid draughts. Water more sparingly in the winter and at both times of the year make sure you do not soak the leaves as this can cause them to rot off. ALMOST TROUBLE FREE: Schlumbergera; the Christmas Cactus is a native of jungles and woodlands and consequently thrive in low light levels and like the Poinsettia like some moisture in the air so a bright but not in direct sunlight window away from radiators, open fires and draughts is idea. As soon as the light levels begin to drop Schlumbergera start to put out their pointed buds and flower as their name suggests near Christmas and on into January with tropical looking pink, orange and coral blooms. There is little that deters a Schlumbergera and they are easy to grow, propagate and look after requiring little water in the winter months and only marginally more in the summer. Kate Gould is an award-winning garden designer with more than a decade’s hands-on experience transforming gardens of all sizes. www.kategouldgardens.com eastlife.co.uk | 81

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ARTS

THE

ARTS COLUMN WRITTEN BY COLLETTE HOEFKENS

Sunset by Daniel Gbenga Orimoloye

As the year starts to draw towards its festive climax it’s a great time to reflect and focus upon all the poignant things that have happened throughout the year. It is often the case that my best memories are safely kept within the frame of a picture. With this in mind I find myself mentally revisiting some of the superb galleries nestled around the region. My first choice has to be a journey north to the magical town of Lavenham in Suffolk. Here I can find both The Wild Life Gallery and the Lion House Gallery. Situated in the high street, these excellent venues offer a very different perspective on art.

Winter Hare III by Andrew Haslen

51 Norton Way, Letchworth Garden City, Herts, SG6 1BH | Tel: 01462 685139

Norman, every inch of the gallery holds fascination and inspiration. Heading back south there is time to catch the ‘Christmas Spirit’ exhibition at the excellent Saffron Walden Gallery. With over 40 artists on show, the collection is richly diverse and includes glass, earthenware, porcelain, oil paintings and watercolours.

Exciting, pensive and powerful images and creations of all kinds of animals and landscape adorn the walls of The Wildlife Gallery (www.wildlifeartgallery.com). Home to the highly revered wildlife artist, Andrew Haslen, the gallery is a warm, sophisticated collection and homage to some of the best contemporary and late wildlife artists from around the country. Stunning bronzes, ceramics and intriguing, thought provoking paintings and drawings command attention and admiration.

Starting on the 27 November you can enjoy the highly energized seascapes from Daniel Gbenga Orimoloye. Racing skylines and explosive sunsets are robustly conveyed through powerfully, energetically applied oil paint on canvas. Equally commanding are the colourful and uplifting acrylics from the joyous palette of Relton Marine. Ceramics from Tracy Ford beautifully compliment the two-dimensional works, with their serene blues and golds, capturing the elements and transforming them into textured, organic bowls and vessels.

Further along the street you will come upon the magical and captivating Lion House Gallery (www.lionhousegallery. co.uk). Full to the brim with exquisite etchings, linocuts, pottery, jewellery and paintings, this wonderful treasure trove of art is sure to contain something to delight everyone. From the intricate watercolours of Kate Green to the delicate and haunting etchings of Chrissy

Wherever you find yourself over the festive season be sure to visit one of the superb galleries, that will be only a short drive or walk away. Flick through the pages of Eastlife magazine and you will find a venue near to you. Perhaps plan your visit with a quick telephone call first or check the gallery’s website for up-to-date information. eastlife.co.uk | 85

ARTS

ARTS NEWS

NORFOLK & NORWICH FESTIVAL 2016 LINE UP Norfolk & Norwich Festival, one of the biggest arts festivals in the UK, has announced the first shows of its 2016 Festival. With more to be announced, highlights for 2016 so far include: a ground-breaking UK Premiere from contemporary circus cabaret troupe Race Horse Company; the World Premiere of a major new commission from one of the UK’s foremost young composers - Kemal Yusuf; excerpts from electro-acoustic polymath Max Richter’s intensive investigation in the power of the human brain – Sleep; Aurélien Bory’s industrial robot’s dance with acrobats Sans Objet; Twenty Feet From Stardom’s Lisa Fischer’s first ever solo UK concert; an epic staging of Mahler’s Symphony of a Thousand by Norwich Philharmonic and a revival of Rona Munro’s critically acclaimed The James Plays. The festival runs 13 – 29 May 2016 with full line up still to be announced. BRYAN HARFORD ANNOUNCES FINAL 2015 EXHIBITIONS Norfolk artist Bryan Harford has announced dates for his final 2015 exhibitions. The popular artist will be showing works in a solo exhibition at Ringstead Village Hall from 5-6 December and will submit works as part of the Wells Tide Fest to the Quayside Gallery on 11-12 December. The beginning of this month is the last chance to see the Paul Ramsey exhibition ‘Two Decades Drawings’ at the Chappel Galleries, in Chappel, Essex. The exhibition closes 6 December. Tel: 01206 240326 86| Download Our App Today!

IT’S ALL WRAPPED UP WITH GALLERY 1066 Gallery 1066, in Hitchin, has Christmas all wrapped up with an array for beautiful art to suit many tastes and pockets along with stunning sculpture, bespoke glassware and a new exciting jewellery brand, Uno de 50. The gallery works with highly acclaimed international artists such as Fabian Perez, Sherree Valentine Daines, Todd White and Doug Hyde as well as exciting emerging artists. There are a number of items which will make for special gifts. Tel: 01462 622233 BOB DYLON EXHIBITION A combination of artworks by the legendary American singer songwriter Bob Dylan and iconic photographs of him throughout his career will be showcased at Gallery 105 in St Albans, from 4-19 December. The ‘Drawn Blank Series’ consists of four dozen re-imagined sketches created between 1989 and 1992 by the endlessly touring troubadour, of which around 20 of his hugely sought after signed limited editions. The paintings include portraits of characters Dylan has encountered on his ramblings as well as interiors, landscapes, still life, nudes and street scenes of which there are no more than 250 copies of each in the UK. All exhibits are available to purchase. Tel: 01727 833577

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Sales Diary 2015 Fine Antiques with Clocks & Watches

19th & 20th May 24th, 25th & 26th November

Antiques with Clocks & Watches

m rA Ak

presents ompAny An C kh

6th & 7th January 10th & 11th March 14th & 15th July 8th & 9th September

East Anglian Art

Books & Ephemera

13th March (pm) 27th November

29th & 30th January 26th & 27th March 28th & 29th May 30th & 31st July 24th & 25th September 19th & 20th November

Selected Quality Pictures 13th March (am) 11th December

Country Sale

Ornithology

Every Monday (Tuesday after a Bank Holiday)

Picture & Prints

Commercial & Deadstock Sale

4th September

6th February 10th April 8th May extra3rdsections July 2nd October

SALES CALENDAR JANUARY – MARCH 2016 Antiques with Collectors & Militaria

General Sales10every & 11 Monday February plus th

14th & 15th April 16th & 17th June 11th & 12th August 2016 6th & 7th October

Usually held on the last Monday of the month (Tuesday after a Bank Holiday)

each week

JANUARY Important Summer Monday 4th Commercial, Deadstock & Cars Sale of Fine Paintings 7 August Monday 11th Wine Sales Antiques to include Pictures & Prints Monday 18th 20 May Boxed Books Classic Car Sale Monday 25th 26 November Antiques to include Books & Maps Date to be announced

Selected Quality Antiques & East Anglian Art FEBRUARY 2016 Tuesday 19thDeadstock to Friday 22nd Monday 1st Palmers Commercial, & Cars Norfolk NR11 6JA Lane, Aylsham, Monday November 8th Antiques; Furniture, Ceramics, Silver, Clocks & Jewellery Monday 15th Boxed Books th

th th

01263 733195

keysauctions.co.uk Monday 22nd salerooms@keysauctions.co.uk Antiques; Furniture, Ceramics, Silver, Clocks & Jewellery

We areAntiques; pleased to announce Furniture, Ceramics, Silver, Clocks & Jewellery Boxed Books that weSpecialist are now sale of Fine Antiques (Day 1) Specialist sale of Fine Antiques 2) accepting Entries for(Day these Specialist sale of Fine Antiques (Day 3) To include The East Anglian Sale (Part 1) prestigious Sales Monday 22nd Antiques;Furniture, Ceramics, Silver, Clocks & Jewellery MARCH 2016 Monday 7th Monday 14th Tuesday 15th Wednesday 16th Thursday 17th

16 – 20 December £10, £7 concessions £30 Family TickeT

Monday 29th

Commercial, Deadstock & Cars

April 26th/27th/28th/May 10th 2016 Morningthorpe Manor Country House Sale To be held at Aylsham Salerooms Palmers Lane, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6JA

Please email images of items you may wish to sell to: salerooms@keysauctions.co.uk

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eastlife.co.uk | 87

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IS THE EAST OF ENGLAND A PLACE OF BODY HATERS? ARE CELEBRITIES IN THE MEDIA TAKE A TOLL ON OUR BODY CONFIDENCE? We’re a nation in need of a confidence boost, as new research reveals that only 4% of those in the East of England say they love their bodies. A survey, carried out by health and wellbeing retailer NutrientWise1, has revealed that as many as one in ten (10%) actively hate their bodies and just over half (55%) merely accept it. So what is it that’s giving us such a body complex? Our screens are constantly flooded with photos of celebrities in bikinis and skimpy outfits, so it’s no surprise that of those in the East of England who let their surroundings affect their body confidence, 95% said that celebrities in the media had the most negative impact. This is closely followed by TV (94%) and newspaper and magazine articles (74%). And when does the lack of body confidence kick into overdrive? 28% in the East of England admitted they feel the most uncomfortable when shopping for new clothes, 21% said it was while on holiday and 17% said when they’ve made an effort and got dressed up. The survey did however prove that mums are always on hand for a confidence boost, as two thirds of both men (59%) and women (65%) turn to them for a bit of body loving. Of those who let people in their lives have an impact on how they feel about their bodies, three quarters (74%) said that loved ones have a positive impact and 70% said friends do too. Interestingly, for those in the East of England, it’s a healthy and nutritious way of life that makes us feel more confident within ourselves. And forget the fads. Drinking lots of water (23%), wearing flattering clothes (25%) and a healthy and nutritious diet (19%) make most people feel better. Commenting on the findings, Dr Sarah Brewer, medical nutritionist and award-winning author said: “It’s worrying to see how many people in the East of England actively hate their bodies. From my experience, many women are obsessed with their bodies being asymmetrical and what they look like without

their clothes on. Some people seem obsessed with any perceived flaw, even if it’s as small as a random bunch of freckles. “Today’s concerns don’t necessarily come from body dysmorphia, it’s more to do with how much images of models and celebrities are airbrushed to appear flawless in the media. They are just as blemished in real life as the rest of us, yet digitally corrected images can prompt a desire to look like the fake and unnatural.” She added: “It’s important to have self-confidence and embrace your differences rather than worry about them. I suggest people in the East of England write down ten things they love about themselves and take this piece of paper around in their handbag or wallet. Then, when you feel down, you just need to whip these out and have a read to remind yourself of all the factors that help you feel good.” eastlife.co.uk | 91

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SUFFOLK

What’s on in

Suffolk

THEATRE & SHOWS 27 Nov - 10 Jan Jack & The Beanstalk Traditional family pantomime. The story of Jack, a handful of beans, a cow and a giant will be full of magic, music and fun. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org

EDITOR’S CHOICE

15-21 Dec The Jolly Christmas Postman Join the Jolly Christmas Postman as he makes his Christmas rounds, meeting well-known characters along the way, with singalong songs, a bit of dancing, fun and festive frolics thrown in. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk

3-5 Dec Whistle Down the Wind A beautiful classic tale of childhood innocence, with songs from the West End musical the story follows the lives of three farm children who discover a fugitive hiding in their barn. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 3-Dec Mark Thomas - Trespass Trespass carries on from where Mark’s previous show 100 Acts of Minor Dissent left off. It is his usual mix of theatre, stand up, activism, a dash of journalism and a dollop of mayhem. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill., CB9 8AR. 01440 71414. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 4-5 Dec Hansel And Gretel Hansel and Gretel Quirky and engaging, Lantern Light’s charming re-telling of the classic fairy-tale will have you hunting for pebbles, clapping to the polka and singing along with the Forest Song! The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 5-6 Dec The Ipswich Masters 2015 - VIP Five-time World Champion Raymond van Barneveld and James Wade, who has won nine major professional titles, will be the main attractions when the Ipswich Masters takes place on Saturday 5 December. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100 www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 7-Dec Seekers And Dreamers A Christmas story through words, images and carols bothold and new. Admission is free and the theatre bar will be offering seasonal refreshments. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 8-Dec A Christmas Carol A Christmas Carol is an innovative, playful, yet faithful adaptation of the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge: a cranky old miser, who makes life a misery for everyone who crosses his path, until an evening of Ghostly visitations forces a change in him for the better. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH

in love with Marguerite Gautier, a gorgeous courtesan celebrated by the Parisian high society. Despite her infidelity, Armand will do all he can to win the beautiful woman’s heart. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org

FELIXSTOWE ICE RINK SATURDAY 19 TO WEDNESDAY 23 DECEMBER There will be free ice skating at Great Eastern Square in Felixstowe during the week before Christmas. The synthetic rink is sponsored by the East of England Cooperative. Open daily from Saturday 19 to Wednesday 23 December, 12noon-8pm, it’s a great chance to get into the fetsive spirit. On Sunday 20 December, the rink is open from 10am-6pm. The grand opening by the Mayor of Felixstowe will take place on Saturday 19 December at 12noon. There will also be rides for smaller children and a stall selling hot food and drinks. www.visitfelixstowe.co.uk 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 10-12 Dec Wind In The Willows This delightful stage adaptation combines all the joy and mystery of Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved classic with the lightness of touch and playful theatricality that award-winning playwright Mike Kenny is known for. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 10-Dec Cavalleria Rusticana and Pagliacci Two complementary works tell dark tales of passionate love that sours to violent jealousy. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 13-Dec The Lady of the Camellias A young bourgeois, Armand Duval, falls madly

16-Dec The Nutcracker Christmas simply wouldn’t be Christmas without The Royal Ballet’s classic production of The Nutcracker. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 17-24 Dec Robin Hood When the beloved local Baroness disappears in mysterious circumstances and the vile Sheriff seizes power, a hero is needed to save the day. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 15-Dec Jane Eyre Almost 170 years on, Charlotte Brontë’s story of the trailblazing Jane is as inspiring as ever. This bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfi lment on her own terms. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 www.newcut.org 18-Dec Cinderella BBC Radio Two`s Janey Lee Grace as Fairy Godmother joins ITV`s Britain`s Got Talent finalist Phil Blackmore as Buttons in the most glamorous Pantomime of them all! Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 19 Dec - 3 Jan Aladdin Legendary magician Paul Daniels, X-Factor runner-up Andy Abraham and Disney Channel presenter Samantha Dorrance lead the cast of the Ipswich Regent’s Christmas Pantomime - Aladdin. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO/ 19 Dec - 3 Jan The Wizard of Oz You are invited to click your heels, journey over the rainbow and ease on down the yellow brick

eastlife.co.uk | 95

SUFFOLK road. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 . www.fishertheatre.org 21-Dec The Snow Queen An enchanting new version of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale adventure, featuring new songs, beautiful costumes & scenery and a host of colourful characters. A fun, frosty, fast paced adventure that will melt your heart. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 28 Dec - 3 Jan The Blacksmith Who Chased the Moon The Devil steals the moon and plunges the town of Halesworth into chaos, and only the Blacksmith can save it - but rescuing the moon from The Devil isn’t as easy as it sounds. A festive comedy about facing your demons. Literally. Based on Nikolai Gogol’s ‘The Night Before Christmas’. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 www.newcut.org 29 Dec - 2 Jan Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat The award-winning Children’s Theatre Company bring to life the Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colours. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk

years and have supported many top acts including Marty Wilde, Mud, Ricky valance, Gerry Marsden and The Searchers to name a few. Christmas songs and laughs galore! The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 www.newcut.org 8-Dec Carols From Cambridge Led by conductor Sarah MacDonald, Selwyn College Choir will present seasonal favourites including traditional carols and arrangements by John Rutter, David Willcocks and Philip Moore. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 10-Dec Soul Legends An all-star cast of talented singers and musicians revive everyone’s favourite soul classics. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 11-Dec Frankly Sinatra The swing, swagger and velvet vocals of Frank Sinatra in concert with Stephen Triffit. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich IP4 1HE. 01473 433100

11-12 Dec Pure Floyd Show The Pure Floyd Show returns to the Fisher Theatre for two nights with their high energy eight-member tribute to the music of the legendary Pink Floyd. Fisher Theatre, Broad MUSIC Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 5-Dec The Michael Bublé And Crooners www.fishertheatre.org Christmas Show 15-Dec Carols by Candlelight This live one man music show is brought to you Spirit of Christmas concert by the Locrian by professional vocalist Tommy Winn! Tommy Ensemble. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St has over 10 years experience performing across Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 the UK & Europe. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton www.theapex.co.uk Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 22-Dec Xmas Juke Box Jive! 5-Dec Family Christmas Concert Two 70s bands in a night of non-stop hits: The concert involves audience participation, The Rubettes featuring Bill Hurd and The Christmas sing-a-longs and family games - all in Tremeloes with Dave Munden. The Apex, a lighthearted vein. Haverhill Arts Centre, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 23-Dec An Albion Christmas 5-Dec Carols by Candlelight The show features the combined talents of This candlelit Christmas Concert will combine Simon Nicol, Kellie While, Simon Care and a popular mix of traditional and contemporary the Guvnor himself, Ashley Hutchings, this carols interspersed with readings and anecdotes show takes you on a guided tour through the from television personality, Griff Rhys Jones. Christmas customs of Britain. The Apex, The Royal Hospital School, Holbrook, IP9 2RX 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01473 326200 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 6-Dec The TestostaTones – Totally Christmas A festive story which features the best Christmas Doo-Wop and vintage songs. The Seagull 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 6-Dec That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show The UK’s most popular Rock ‘N’ Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy! Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 6-Dec Rock’n’Roll Christmas Show Lowrider have been performing for over 20

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 4-10 Dec Atmospheres by Rupert Beswarick-Asser This will be Rupert’s second exhibition at the Quay Gallery, showing new and recent paintings in oils and pastel-work primarily inspired by the landscapes of Suffolk and Cornwall—as well as a selection of limited edition of giclée prints. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR.01728 688303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk 6-Dec Sunday Life Drawing Take your time studying from long poses in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Paper, charcoal, indian ink and refreshments Provided. Please bring your own paint brushes and any

other mediums/materials you wish to work with. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY 0845 6732123. www.newcut.org 7 Dec - 4 Jan A Christmas Carol Christmas exhibition is always a feast of work from many of the artists whose work has appeared earlier in the year together with work from new artists we wish to introduce our audience to. Complimentary gift wrapping and secret keeping always available. Sea Pictures Gallery, Well Lane, Clare, CO10 8NH. 01787 279024. www.seapicturesgallery.com 11-13 Dec Tim Hall, Watercolour & Oil Exhibition Having been involved in the Arts for most of his life, Tim went self-employed with his painting in 1998 – since then he has had many exhibitions in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Holland. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR.01728 688303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk 14-17 Dec Jason Avery Exhibition Jason Avery is a Suffolk based photographer working in various photographic mediums. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR. 01728 688303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 4-6 Dec Lavenham Christmas Fair Magical three-day Dickensian Christmas Fair on the Market Place of historic Lavenham. More than 80 festive stalls, Father Christmas Grotto, mulled wine and hot food, live music, The Big wheel and entertainment for all the family. Market Place, Lavenham, CO10 9QZ 11 Dec - 10 Jan Russell’s Circus & Fun Fair The award winning Russell’s Circus will be appearing at Stonham Barns this Christmas and over the New Year period. Hot roasted chestnuts, candy floss and also all the fun of the fair. Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT . 01449 711111 www.stonhambarns.co.uk 16-Dec A Dickensian Christmas at Haughley Park Start your festive season in style with friends and family and enjoy food, mulled wine, a bar and entertainment in the historic and stunning Haughley Park Barn. Haughley Park, Stowmarket, IP14 3JY. 01359 240701 www.theatreroyal.org 19-Dec Christmas Farmers’ Market Look out for Food & Drink Festival’s best in artisan food and drink products from real ales to macaroons. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR. 01728 688 303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 12-Dec Long Melford Book Fair Around 20 exhibitors selling books, postcards, ephemera and all manner of paper related items. The longest running, independent book fair in Suffolk. The Village Memorial Hall, Long Melford , CO10 9LQ. 27-28 Dec Long Melford Antiques Fair The Old School, Hall Street, CO10 9DX.

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W&M SMITH

Christmas has well and truly arrived at W & M Smith. The Pightle Barn is packed to the rafters with a truly amazing range of products for the festive season and beyond. As soon as you enter the reception you are given a sneak preview on what is on offer the further you venture into the depths of the barn. Christmas is on the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;menuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at the moment and there is plenty to wet your appetite! Decorations in a variety of guises but the rural and rustic theme is very apparent throughout. Trees, reindeer, wreaths and garlands all made out of birch as well as hanging ornaments. Dried fruit slices, cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and fir cones just to mention a few bits and pieces available to use in your own creations. For the dining table, crackers from the cheap and cheerful to real luxury and some with magic tricks or hand bells to entertain you further. Serviettes with a vast range of designs from the traditional holly and poinsettias to the modern contemporary ones, in both 3 ply & linen look. If you prefer we also stock plain colours as well.

For the Christmas cake, we provide marzipan and roll out icing and to finish it off decorations edible, clay dough and resin including Father Christmas, Snowmen, Reindeer, Trees, Robins, Holly etc. Next stop is the ribbon and paper to pack your parcels. Ribbon in all widths, types, lengths, colours. You name it we will probably have it. Choose from 1000 plus reels and woe betide anyone who says we have not got the colour they require!!! Still trying to decide if it is worth a visit, well a few other items you will find here also are, Church Candles, battery candles, galvanised containers, silk flowers, glassware, basket ware, catering disposables, feathers, bubble wrap, tissue, gift bags etc etc. Finally when Christmas is over the next range due in will be spring and Easter so keep the lookout for New Year reminders and offers. Happy Christmas to all our customers.

For all those special occasions in your life...

Visit our showroom for your floral artistry and craft needs. Pightle Barn, Blacksmiths Lane, Middlewood Green, Stowmarket IP14 5EU

Wreaths

Baubles & Tinsel

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Open Monday & Thursday 10am - 7pm; Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10am - 5pm.

Also selected Saturdays and Sundays 10 - 4 (please call to check)

www.wandmsmith.co.uk Tel: 01449 711014 Fax: 01449 711815

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We love festivities here at The White Lion and once again are looking forward to celebrating this special time of year with you.

From live music nights and seven-course banquets, to Santa Sundays and afternoon teas by the sea there is plenty for everyone in this magical part of Suffolk.

If you fancy a longer stay and a real vacation this Christmas, we have some fantastic overnight packages, too!

S PA R K L E THIS CHRISTMAS Christmas is coming and we think it’s a great time to do nothing much more than let us look after you. When you stay for a few days or even just pop into the Seafood & Grill Restaurant, we’ll keep delicious locally-sourced food and lovely festive drinks coming. And tidy up at the same time, of course! Then the ﬁzz really starts to ﬂow in the run-up to New Year… Enjoy sparkling seasonal stays from £ 355 per person

Aldeburgh

www.brudenellhotel.co.uk Brudenell Hotel, The Parade, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BU Telephone: 01728 452071 info@brudenellhotel.co.uk

AREA FOCUS

A SEASIDE CHRISTMAS IN

SUFFOLK

Ice creams on the beach may be a distant memory but there is still lots to enjoy this Christmas in Southwold and Aldeburgh with carols, concerts and crafts on the agenda. SOUTHWOLD Following the Christmas light switch on at the end of last month, Southwold starts its festive celebrations with a reception and concert on Saturday 5 December. It marks the launch of the new Southwold Music Trust, which aims to make music central to Southwold and its surrounding community. The event is a collaboration between the Southwold Concert Series, Southwold Music Trust, and the vocal ensemble Seraphim, and will begin with a reception at 6.30pm in St Edmund’s Hall, to which all concert-goers are welcome. The concert will then begin at 7.30pm in St Edmund’s Church. Seraphim and their conductor, Vetta Wise will perform a programme entitled ‘Deo Gracias’, featuring a variety of works to usher in the Christmas Season.

If you’re looking for a festive celebration with a seaview, the Broadwalk Restaurant at Southwold Pier will be hosting seasonal lunch and dinner to get everyone in the party mood. The Pier’s lifestyle store Seaweed & Salt will be open to pick up some last minute gifts and decor while The Treasure Chest will be bursting with stocking fillers and novelties. The Amber Shop, located in the Market Place, launched its latest exhibition last month, a collection of pearl and amber jewellery, available until 13 December. The store is full of beautiful pieces that make for perfect presents. Southwold’s festivities wouldn’t be complete without the return of the popular Christmas Day morning swim. On 25 December at 10.30am some very brave men and women will be plunging themselves into the sea on Southwold Beach near to Gun Hill for the annual Christmas Day Swim in aid of charity. If you’re not brave enough to take a dip, join the spectators on the shore and cheer on family and friends.

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AREA FOCUS

Aldeburgh in winter

ALDEBURGH Aldeburgh starts its festive celebrations on Saturday 12 December as the town’s Christmas lights twinkle into action. The evening will be sure to get you in the festive spirit with shops staying open until late, mulled wine, live music, mince pies and much more. The event ends with fireworks on the beach. Every Sunday throughout December the seafront White Lion Hotel (www.whitelion.co.uk) will be offering a special Sunday lunch for families. After a three-course traditional lunch, mum and dad can relax over a glass of wine while the children are happily entertained with games and a disco. Santa will be visiting and bringing gifts for all children too! (Adults £25 per person, children £15) If a magical Christmas break by the sea takes your fancy, the Brudenell Hotel (www.brudenellhotel.co.uk) has a three-night full board break available. Spend your Christmas strolling along the coast, enjoying beautiful scenery and being served a festive feast with all the trimmings. Christmas eve will be spent enjoying a festive afternoon tea and evening canapés, while Christmas Day highlights include breakfast, a six-course meal and evening quiz. On Boxing Day head to the

White Lion Hotel, Aldeburgh

seafront and watch the hardy dive into the North Sea as they complete the annual Boxing Day Charity Swim before tucking into more festive food. Prices start from £600 per person. The weekend before Christmas head away from the coast and inland to the Snape Maltings (www.aldeburgh. co.uk). From 18 – 20 December the site will be taken over by an abundance of festive events and activities for all the family, including a Christmas Market on Saturday, a sing-a-long carol concert on Sunday 20 December at 3pm in the Concert Hall, children’s art and craft workshop, cosy storytelling sessions and an evening with the inspirational John Wilson Orchestra on Friday 18 December.

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Thorpeness Country Club a New Year venue like no other Welcome in the New Year in a spectacular setting by the sea and enjoy all things fabulous at our Glitz & Glamour Ball. Arrive to welcome drinks and canapés before sitting down to a gourmet 4-course meal. Dance your way to midnight to our live band as we toast the New Year with champagne and fireworks by the beach. Tickets just £90 each

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Please contact our Events Team T: 01728 452176 E: events@thorpeness.co.uk www.thorpenesscountryclub.co.uk/christmas

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Insidesuffolk.com is an independent marketing company based in the beautiful village of Long Melford in Suffolk. Insidesuffolk.com does not work with business associations, put simply there is no committee to argue with ! Just me and my cameraman producing quality digital media that works. Take at look on our facebook page to see the latest Suffolk village video which has received 200,000 views before we went to print in this copy of EastLife. We are currently working on www.suffolkartgalleries.co.uk , for more information contact Paul Moreton at Paul@chevingtongroup.co.uk or call 07867 330993. Advertising That Works... Two Guys, one vision and a full time back office girl to keep your content up to date at all times.

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BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS

What’s on in

Beds, Bucks & Herts

THEATRE & SHOWS 27 Nov - 24 Jan Sleeping Beauty – A Dream of a Pantomime! Another spectacular Stevenage Pantomime full of music, laughter, amazing special effects and plenty of surprises. With swash-buckling Prince Valiant, dreams really can come true. Wendi Peters (Coronation Street’s Cilla) stars as Carabosse. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk

4 Dec - 2 Jan Dick Whittington Watford Palace Theatre’s five star family pantomime is back with the ultimate rags to riches tale of a young man and his cat on an exciting quest for fame and fortune. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 4 Dec - 10 Jan Aladdin Aladdin is seasonal family entertainment at its best. Take proprietor of the local Chinese laundry, Widow Twankey, this Dame is something to behold! And played by actor, comedian and national treasure Gary Wilmot, you can guarantee that it will all come out well in the wash. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 4 Dec - 3 Jan Peter Pan Don’t miss this year’s fun-filled pantomime. It stars everyone’s favourite TV baddie, Jake Wood (EastEnders and Strictly Come Dancing), Katrina Bryan (CBeebies’ Nina and the Neurons) and St Albans’ legend, the one and only Bob Golding as Mrs Smee. Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk 5-Dec The Winter’s Tale – Encore Screening Shakespeare’s timeless tragic comedy of obsession and redemption is reimagined in a new production co-directed by Rob Ashford and Kenneth Branagh. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 5 Dec - 1 Jan Hansel and Gretel Hansel and Gretel is a fairy tale panto for all the family, full of volcanic dances, sweet-toothed songs and giggles by the sledge-full! Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 7-9 Dec The Little Match Girl Using their combination of visual storytelling,

EDITOR’S CHOICE

has only 45 minutes to get all the toys ready in time for Santas arrival. Will he make in time? The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford MK40 3DE, 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 10-19 Dec James & The Giant Peach An adaptation of the Roald Dahl classic. Queen Mother Theatre, Walsworth Road, Hitchin SG4 9SP. 01462 455166. www.queenmothertheatre.org.uk

MEET SANTA 21 NOV - 20 DEC Take your children to Woburn this winter to enjoy an enchanted Christmas experience! Santa will be taking some time out of his busy schedule to make a special guest appearance at Woburn Safari Park. Children can visit Santa in his magical Grotto at the Swan Kiosk in the Foot Safari. They will be met by one of Santa’s elves at Junglies Gift Shop, before being escorted to meet Santa and receive an early Christmas present. Price:£5.95 per child. Woburn Safari Park is open every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Wednesday 10 February 2016, excluding Christmas. www.woburnsafari.co.uk/events live music and object work, Moon On A Stick transform the stage into a stunning snowy spectacle. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org 9-12 Dec Dirty Dusting When ageing cleaning ladies Elise, Gladys and Olive are threatened with redundancy they hit on the idea of making some quick money by running a Sex Line from the company offices. Their initial inexperience, but rapid learning curve, has, as you can imagine, hilarious results. Not a play for the prudish! The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY www.courttheatre.co.uk 10-11 Dec Happy and Elfie Follow the adventures of a Christmas Elf who, on Christmas Eve, has been so busy having fun he has forgotten to prepare for Christmas and

11 Dec - 3 Jan Dick Whittington A must-see Christmas tradition featuring all of your favourite pantomime ingredients – sensational songs, a live band, dazzling dance routines, slapstick comedy, and plenty of audience participation. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 11 Dec - 3 Jan Cinderella Will Cinderella meet the man of her dreams? Will Prince Charming win our heroine’s heart? And will the Ugly Sisters stop Cinders from going to the ball? All will be revealed this Christmas, in the spectacular pantomime, Cinderella! Blue’s Antony Costa stars as Prince Charming! Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 12 Dec - 2 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk Get set for a fun-filled-feast of family entertainment as our hero Jack sets off on his adventure up the beanstalk. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 12-Dec An Evening With Noel Fielding Expect a magical mix of Noel’s brand of stand up comedy, live animation, music and some of Fielding’s best known TV characters. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 16 Dec - 3 Jan Cinderella With beautiful sets and costumes, enchanting music and lots of laughter - the most famous pantomime of them all. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX 01707 357117. www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk 18-19 Dec The Chicago Christmas Ball Step back into 1920s America and dance the

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For delicious Christmas treats and great gift ideas, pop along to one of our lively markets Christmas and new year markets will be held in Hertford on Thursday Dec 24 & Saturday Jan 2 Ware on Tuesdays Dec 22 & Jan 5 Hertford Farmers Market will be held on Saturday 12 Dec, 8.30am-1pm

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BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS night away. Perfect for Christmas parties or a night out with friends. The Evening will include a 3 course meal, Live Entertainment and Disco until 1am. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 21-28 Dec Miracle On 34th Street: The Musical One of the most popular films of all time comes to the stage in this dazzling new production. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 21-24 Dec Stories for Christmas Certain Age and The Place Theatre again weave together a compilation of Christmas stories, old and new, into a magical piece of Yuletide entertainment perfect for young children (recommended ages 3 to 8). The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 27-Dec Cinderella Unbuttoned Definitely for adults only, this raucous racy remix of Panto will have you rolling in the aisles.Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk 27 Dec - 3 Jan Cinderella Starring local talent with not a celebrity in sight, we need your help to cheer the loveable Buttons, boo Cinderella’s stepmother, laugh at the clumsy stepsisters and wish Cinderella “Happy ever after” with her dashing prince. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY www.courttheatre.co.uk MUSIC 1-Dec Natasha Seale Quartet Somewhere between Stevie’s funky soul and Amy’s torch-song jazz you’ll find Tash. Hers is a burnished, passionate sound both old and new; energised and emotional music for music lovers. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 4-Dec Festive Fiesta: Clare Teal and her All Star Big Band As well as a sparkling programme of classic tunes and songs with a seasonal twist, expect a few surprises along the way along with some special guests. The Stables, Stockwell Lane Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 6-Dec Music for Christmas Hertfordshire Chorus is one of the country’s finest large choirs, performing a wide variety of works in prestigious venues throughout the UK. Old Palace, Hatfield House, Hatfield, AL9 5HX www.hatfield-house.co.uk 10-Dec Christmas Concert Watford Philharmonic Choir and Orchestra return with their traditional Christmas Concert. Festive fun for all the family and a great way to start your Christmas celebrations. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

13-14 Dec The West End at Christmas The West End in Concert team returns for another visit to Bedford as they present their fabulous collection of beautiful songs in a magical show brought to you by leading performers directly from the West End! The Place Theatre Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 15-Dec Holly at Christmas Holly’s hits, other contemporary classics and some Christmas crackers are all wrapped up in a fast, furious and funny feast of entertainment to make the perfect gift for all the family. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 15-Dec Christmas Party with The Horne Section Expect a heady mix of spontaneous stand-up, spectacular performance and outlandish musical talent led by the brilliant comedian Alex Horne. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk 16-Dec Abba Merry Christmas Starring solid-gold ABBA hits Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen, Super Trouper, Waterloo and scores more, this worldwide hit concert show is now celebrating its 20th sequin-spangled year. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford. WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 18-19 Dec Cleo’s Christmas Show Kick off the festive season in style and take your seat for Cleo’s annual Christmas celebration. She’s invited a host of friends and family to create a show packed with great music and seasonal fun, as well as some surprises along the way. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon , MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 14 Nov - 31 Dec Winter Fairy Tales A magical exhibition inspired by Fairy Tales. Obsidian Art , Old Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville, HP22 5XJ. 01296 612150 www.obsidianart.co.uk 24 Nov - 5 Dec Making with a Message Produced over a decade of political and personal uncertainty the collection represents a very personal view of the world in which we live. Sometimes puzzling, occasionally controversial and often upsetting, it is nevertheless work which had to be made and which still has resonance today. Courtyard Arts, Port Vale, Hertford, SG14 3AA. 01992 509596 www.courtyardarts.org.uk 30 Nov - 24 Dec Members’ Christmas Show Enjoy a parade of art leading up to the festive period. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 5-Dec Gods and Goddesses - Gallery Talk A gallery talk provided by the St Albans Tour Guides. Free. Museum entry charge applies to non residents. Museum of St Albans,

St Albans, AL1 3RR. 01707 281127. www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk 6-Dec Poetry at The Eagle Gallery: Memories Remember, remember the 6th of December. “Memory is the diary we all carry about with us,” said Oscar Wilde. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995. www.theplacebedford.org SPECIAL EVENTS 5-Dec Free Museum Tour Learn about the objects in the museum and hear some of the interesting facts and secret stories from the museum collection. Tours are at 2pm Rhodes Theatre 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 5-Dec Think Christmas Think Hertford At this festive shopping day selective retailers will be handing out samples, offering promotions and providing in store entertainment. 10am - 6pm. Hertford Town Centre, Hertford, 01992 552885. www.hertford.gov.uk/events 11-Dec Carols at the Castle Join the Mayor for Carols at the Castle. Mince pies and Mulled wine will be served at the performance. 6pm - 8pm. Free entry. Hertford Castle, Hertford, SG14 1HR. 01992 552885 www.hertford.gov.uk/events 12-Dec French Market & Friends Visitors will be able to purchase gifts and food items from around Europe. There will be an array of stalls in the High Street with a wide selection of products for visitors to view and maybe to buy those last minute Christmas presents. High Street, Hoddesdon, EN8 8TL. 01992 785655 12-13 Dec Christmas at Knebworth House with Kim Wilde The delightful Kim Wilde will be accompanied by the Knebworth Community Choir. Held in the Banqueting Hall of Knebworth House. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX www.knebworthhouse.com AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 19-Dec Vintage, Antiques & Collectors’ Market For those that want to decorate their homes with individual panache, whilst respecting the environment and engaging in the thrill of bartering for a bargain then this antique market is for you. 10am - 5pm. Stable Yard, Hatfield House, Hatfield. AL9 5NQ. 07751 296625 6-Dec Barkway Antiques & Vintage Fair Featuring a range of fabulous stalls with a wide variety of stock from, jewellery to ceramics, curios to clothing. Barkway Village Hall, Cambridge Road, Barkway, SG8 8BS 20-Dec Biggleswade Antiques Fair Over 45 stalls offering a wide range of antiques. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade., SG18 8JH. 01480 382432

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HERTFORD Whether it’s a last minute dash around the shops to pick up presents or socialising with friends, the historic market town of Hertford has everything to see you through the festive season. SHOPPING Hertford is home to over 200 stores, but one of the things that make it stand out from neighbouring towns is its selection of independent retailers. From gift and home stores to fashion boutiques, there many opportunities to pick up one-off gifts for loved ones. The town’s weekly market takes places each Saturday where you can shop for goods from local producers and craftsman. The farmers’ market is held on the second Saturday of each month, from 8.30am to 1pm, and features the very best in local produce. If you’re looking to pick up treats before Christmas, visit Foxholes Farm Shop, located on London Road. The award-winning farm shop has become one of the most popular in the region and is renowned for its fresh tasty produce, butchers and deli. FOOD AND DRINK During the day you’ll find Hertford’s cafes and restaurants buzzing with friends and family, while at night the town’s bars come alive. Popular night hotspots include Décor, Hertford House Hotel and The Blackbirds. Throughout December Hertford House will be hosting a number of tribute evenings, including Rod Stewart, the Blues Brothers and Rat Pack. WHAT’S ON Lights of Love, 5 December Isabel Hospice will be hosting a beautiful carol service at Hertford Castle dedicated to remembering lost loved ones. Mill Mead School Centenary Year Christmas Market, 5 December To celebrate its 100th year, the school will be holding a special Christmas Market, from 1pm-3pm. A diverse range of gifts will be available as well as a Santa’s Grotto and raffle. Christmas Carols at the Castle, 11 December Join the mayor for Christmas carols, mince pies and mulled wine at Hertford Castle from 5.30pm. The performance will be begin at 6pm, finishing at 8pm. eastlife.co.uk | 111

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Smaller than its neighbouring town of Hertford but just as popular, Ware has established as itself as one of the most sought after towns in Hertfordshire. This year has seen an influx of coffee shops, trendy bars and specialist stores pop up along the high street making it a favourite among those with young families and groups of friends. This month the modern town steps back in time for one evening as it plays host to its Dickensian Christmas event on 4 December. Town Centre roads will be closed from 6pm to make way for funfair rides, street entertainers, carols and festive market stalls. The evening begins with the switch on of the Christmas lights on the Tudor Square, surrounded by local community groups stalls and entertainment from theatre groups, singers, a jazz band and buskers. Craft stalls will be located in Place House and Drill Hall with plenty on offer and a chance to pick up some Christmas gifts. Stop by the Leaside Church and browse the Christmas Tree Festival. There’s an opportunity for children to enjoy Santa’s Grotto, fairground rides and storytelling in Angels at Play in Suckling’s Yard, Church Street.

The ‘Big Sing’ at 7.30pm will help everyone get into the Christmas spirit, and there’ll be plenty of festive food and drink available to warm up while you enjoy the festivities. The event is guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit – why not make the most of it with Victorian fancy dress?

eastlife.co.uk | 113

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BEDFORD Image credit: Love Bedford

Thrilling entertainment, arts, shopping and cosy pubs to put your feet up with a festive tipple, Bedford has everything you need to celebrate the Christmas season. Bedford town centre has its fair share of shopping opportunities. The town’s weekly charter, gourmet and home and garden markets are great for picking up local goods, while The Arcade boasts a number of independent retailers and the Harpur Centre has 34 stores trading over two levels. In the lead up to Christmas, late night shopping will be available at certain stores until 8pm every Thursday, and from 21 -23 December. There will also be free parking at selected car parks. For full details visit www.lovebedford.co.uk/christmas.php To pick up some last minute one-off gifts visit the Bedford Christmas Fair, from 11-13 December. Taking place in the town centre, there will be a colourful mix of traditional fairground rides, street entertainment and festive shopping. It’s a great chance to soak up the Christmas atmosphere. For an afternoon of family fun, visit the Six’s Christmas Fayre on 13 December. Children will be entertained with face painting and a visit to Santa’s grotto, while adults can browse the craft and gift stalls, and warm up with Caribbean food and mulled wine. From the 2 – 6

Image credit: Love Bedford

December, St Paul’s Church will host a Christmas Tree Festival with over 60 decorated trees. Christmas is of course the season of parties and Bedford venues don’t disappoint. If you’re looking for an evening of live music, food and drink, book your ticket to Lady K’s Xmas joiner Party Nights taking place at St Cuthberts Hall on 4-5, 11-12 & 18-19 December. Expect an evening of big band music and comedy! In the lead up to Christmas Beales Department Store will be hosting breakfast with Santa every Sunday in its restaurant. Forget the usual slump between Christmas and New Year, and keep the family entertained with a traditional pantomime. This year the Bedford Corn Exchange will show Beauty and the Beast from 28 December to 2 January. And if that’s not enough, you can always go for whizz around the ice at The Bedford Swan Hotel’s festive ice rink from 26 November to 4 January! eastlife.co.uk | 115

Enjoy a unique Christmas in the heart of Bedford With plenty of FREE parking* …and enjoy our character, culture and choice with FREE town centre events, museums, galleries, cafés, restaurants & bars plus riverside setting. *FREE parking for the first 2 hours on Saturdays at Council owned car parks. On Sundays parking is FREE at Council owned car parks and in the Harpur Centre. In addition, FREE parking is available to shop late Thursdays 26th November – 17th December from 5.30pm in the Harpur Centre.

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Amici is a small traditional restaurant in the heart of Bedford’s historical town centre. With its relaxed and intimate atmosphere, it is the ideal setting for any occasion, whether it is a romantic meal for two, a dinner with friends or a lively celebration you have in mind. OPENING HOURS Tuesday - Sunday 12:00 - 14:30 / 18:00 - 23:00 27 St. Peters Street MK402PN Bedfordshire www.amici-restaurant.co.uk 01234 340734 | 0780 9378733

ENJOY CHRISTMAS at MoreteYne Manor

DECEMbER 2015 MENu £32.50 per head* - inc of VaT Woburn Road, Marston Moreteyne, Beds, MK43 0NG www.moreteynemanor.co.uk

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eastlife.co.uk | 117

Longs Inn 18 Bedford Street, Woburn 01525 290219

Festive Menu

Starters

Honey roast parsnip soup, bread & butter Smoked mackerel & horseradish pâté with toast Grilled goats cheese, pear & walnut salad, balsamic dressing Honey roast fig, Parma ham & mozzarella bruschetta Sautéed garlic mushrooms on toast

Mains

2 Courses £19.95 3 courses £24.95 We use local produce and prepare all dishes on site As all food is freshly prepared, pre-orders are required with a £10 deposit per person Menu available throughout December except Christmas Day and Boxing Day

Traditional roast turkey with all trimmings Pan roast fillet of cod, sautéed cockles, lemon & caper butter* Pea, leek & cheddar puff pastry tartlet, wholegrain mustard cream* Venison, red wine & bacon stew* Roasted root vegetable & chestnut loaf, vegetable & herb gravy* *served with buttered new potatoes & seasonal vegetables

Desserts

Christmas pudding, brandy sauce Chocolate orange terrine, candied orange peel White chocolate & raspberry cheesecake, vanilla ice cream British cheese plate, spiced fruit chutney & biscuits (£2 supplement) Coffee and mince pies

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A WONDERFUL WINTER IN WOBURN

Whether you’re lucky enough live in this pretty village, are visiting family and friends or fancy getting away this Christmas, Woburn has plenty to offer during the festive season. If you’re looking for fine food or simply a place to catch up with friends this Christmas you’ll be spoilt for choice. Woburn is home to a number of intimate dining venues, cosy pubs and even a Michelin-starred restaurant. Warm up at the Black Horse on Bedford Street with a glass of mulled wine and bite to eat with friends. The friendly gastro pub will have its usual tasty dishes on offer as well as a set menu in the run up to Christmas. On 23 December the pub is encouraging everyone to pull on their Christmas jumpers for a festive party from 9pm – 2am – ugly jumpers encouraged! As well as Christmas parties and lunches, Woburn Brasserie located in the heart of the village, will be celebrating Christmas with a Festive Opera Night on 12 and 19 December, from 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Diners will be able to enjoy an evening of opera, songs and carols with singers from the English National Opera and a two or three course menu.

If you fancy a little indulgent treat this December or perhaps you want to sharpen up your cookery skills before the big day, Michelin-starred Paris House will be hosting a Chocolate Masterclass on 3 and 6 December and a Modernist Cooking Techniques class on 10 and 13 December. One of the key attractions of Woburn is the stunning Woburn Estate. With its roaming deer and scenic grounds, it’s the perfect place to spend a traditional Christmas. At the Woburn Hotel, award-wining chef Olivier Bertho will be serving up a festive afternoon tea, lunches and dinners. The little ones don’t miss out either, as there will be a chance to say thank you to Santa with a special lunch at the hotel on 27 December. If you can’t face another left over turkey sandwich, avoid the slump between Christmas and New Year with a Twixmas break at Woburn Hotel from 27-28 December. Put your feet up and unwind while staying in one of the luxuriously decorated rooms, before tucking into a superb dinner, and breakfast the next day. Alternatively start the New Year afresh and get away from it all from 2 - 4 January with a relaxing break. Take time to explore the beautiful estate and countryside, and enjoy delicious cuisine – the perfect way to start 2016! eastlife.co.uk | 119

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THEATRE & SHOWS 28 Nov - 9 Jan Aladdin Laugh along with the hilarious dame Widow Twankey, join in the fun and games with Wishee Washee at the laundry, boo the evil Abanazar and be dazzled by the powers of the Genie of the Lamp as our hero Aladdin rescues the beautiful princess. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk

28 Nov - 10 Jan Aladdin Aladdin will need the help of all his pals in the audience if he’s going to win the princess’s heart. So prepare to boo, hiss, cheer and sing! Are you ready? Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 1-5 Dec A Christmas Carol Scrooge - a miser with a love for nothing except money - was feared and despised everywhere he showed his scowling face. One Christmas Eve, he receives four spectral visitors. He then encounters the bleakest terror and the richest delight – learning the true meaning of Christmas. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 2-Dec Harry Enfield & Paul Whitehouse For the first time ever, they will all appear live in a UK tour that promises to revive and revitalise a quarter of a century of classic comedy characters. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-onSea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 2 Dec - 3 Jan Aladdin Join in an adventure of a lifetime with the traditional family pantomime. All the stops have been pulled out to take you on a thrilling mystical magical carpet ride to lands far away in an adventure the whole family can enjoy. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 6-Dec Christmas Memories This enchanting Christmas production is a truly wonderful mixture of all of your favourite Christmas songs and carols, stunning costumes and lots of good old fashioned festive fun. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 6-Dec Snow Queen With songs, dances, humour and horror there is something for the whole family while staying true to the original text and mood. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

all your favourite Christmas songs. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 12 Dec - 10 Jan Cinderella Musical theatre and pantomime legend Brian Conley and Birds of a Feather favourite Lesley Joseph star in this year’s spectacular pantomime, which promises to be packed with special effects, family-friendly comedy and world-class production values. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk

BRIGHTLINGSEA CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 12-13 DECEMBER 10am - 6pm The Brightlingsea Christmas Tree Festival displays almost 100 beautifully decorated, illuminated and comical trees in All Saint’s Church. Growing in popularity each year the festival also features a Christmas shop, sweet treats and refreshments and performances from choirs and instrumentalists throughout the two days. A special ticketed gala event is held on the Saturday evening, while festivities come to a close on Sunday evening at 6pm with carol singing. A festive shuttle bus will operate on both days. www.brightlingseachristmastreefestival. co.uk www.southendtheatres.org.uk 8-Dec Professor Robert Winston: What Makes Us Happy - Reading the Human Mind Professor Winston examines the role of brain imaging, hormone study, sexuality, child development, pharmacology and psychological research in understanding how science may help us be happier. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 10-12 Dec Oh Yes It Is - The Improvised Pantomime Spontaneous dance routines, made up special effects, inventive costumes, live songs and unrehearsed comedy routines make for a wild ride into pantoland! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 11-13 Dec Santa In Love Join Santa and his friends in this fun-filled family musical complete with games, giggles and

12-24 Dec Santa’s Dizzy Day Santa’s Dizzy Day is a fun packed experience for young audiences, making them laugh, sing, and asking to help Santa out of a tricky situation. The show also gives children the opportunity to give their letter to Santa in person. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 12 Dec - 3 Jan Aladdin A thrilling carpet ride and an adventure of a lifetime this Christmas as Polka Dot Pantomimes and the Princes Theatre present this wonderful pantomime Aladdin, staring Scott Robinson from globally renowned boy band Five. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1SE. 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov. uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 13-Dec Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs One of the world’s favourite tales arrives this Christmas, as Snow White escapes the clutches of the Queen to discover seven extraordinary individuals, and make some very special friends along the way. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 14-Dec Christmas Gothic Christmas: a time to remember the past, celebrate the present, and look to the future; a time of feasts and festivities; of holly and mistletoe; a time of visits and visitations. A time of ghosts. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 16-Dec The Nutcracker (Live from the Royal Opera House, London) Christmas simply wouldn’t be Christmas without The Royal Ballet’s classic production of The Nutcracker. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG, 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 18-24 Dec The Nutcracker It’s Christmas and when Clara is given a wooden nutcracker in the shape of a handsome Prince, little does she know that she and her brother Fritz are about to be drawn into a great adven-

eastlife.co.uk | 121

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ESSEX ture. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA . 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19-Dec Alice… The Panto! This new and exciting pantomime celebrates 150 years of Lewis Carrol’s Alice in wonderland. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354 . www.braintreeartstheatre.com 20-Dec FILM: Get Santa Get Santa tells the story of a father and son who must team-up to save Christmas when they discover Santa Claus sleeping in their garage after crashing his sleigh and finding himself on the run from the police. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 22-Dec Santa’s Christmas Cracker! Join the adventures of Dotty the Elf and Pompom the Penguin in a festive, interactive, song-filled visit to Santa’s home, that helps them discover the meaning of Christmas. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com MUSIC 2 & 22 Dec The Cliffs Christmas Cracker Music from The Blues Brothers plus threecourse meal with half a bottle of wine, these brilliant themed acts performing live and resident DJ until late! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 4-Dec Richard Digance Many people sing, play guitar and tell stories but not many have supported Steve Martin, Robin Williams or played a guitar duet with Brian May of Queen, Richard Digance has. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 5-Dec Frankly Sinatra Featuring the swing, the swagger and the velvet vocals of Frank Sinatra in concert, enjoy an unmissable evening with Stephen Triffitt. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 5-Dec Cliff Richard & The Shadows Steve Halliday will be taking you through five authentic costume changes and a musical journey that will revive all the memories and fun Cliff Richard has created across the decades. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-onSea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 6-Dec Searchlights & Snowflakes Once more Chorus Iceni gets Christmas off to a flying start with a show to delight all ages and add a whiff of nostalgia to your festive season. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-onSea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 6-Dec Four Seasons by Candlelight The verve and virtuosity of the 18th century is

brought to life in this enchanting concert staged in an elegant candle-lit setting with an evocative programme crowned by Vivaldi’s sublime masterpiece. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 6-Dec The Skelton Skinner Allstars The Chelmsford Jazz Club presents a performance by The Skelton Skinner Allstars. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 9-19 Dec Sweeney Todd Sweeney Todd is lush, operatic, and full of soaring beauty, pitch-black comedy and stunning terror. The Old Court Theatre, Springfield Road Chelmsford. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres 9-12 Dec New Jersey Nights The show is a spectacular celebration of the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, and takes the audience on a nostalgic musical journey through the career of one of the biggest selling groups of all time. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-Dec Queen Supreme Their attention to detail is truly impressive and extends to their use of the exact same equipment used by Queen on stage in their heyday. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com 18-Dec The Johnny Cash Roadshow The show takes the audience from the 1950s right up to 2002 and all the stops in between. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-onSea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 20-Dec Glenn Miller Orchestra It’s Christmas...Miller style! Jam-packed with everyone’s Yuletide favourites. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 18-Dec Christmas Carol Concert Come along and get into the Christmas spirit with the help of the Mercury Theatre this year. Join us for a collection of readings, performances and carols courtesy of the Aladdin cast. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester CO1 1PT. 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 5 Nov - 23 Dec Present Arts Maintaining The Gallery’s high standard, the emphasis is on works of art which are affordable. The Gallery, Parndon Mill, Harlow CM20 2HP. 01279 426042. www.parndonmill.co.uk 1 Dec - 10 Jan Winter Exhibition High quality craft and design from across the country. Textiles, jewellery, ceramics, prints with the occasional painting. Lots of Christmas goodies from independent makers. The Sentinel Gallery, Chapel Road, Colchester, CO7 9DX www.thesentinelgallery.co.uk

1-12 Dec Michelle Thompson Michelle Thompson has been at the forefront of illustration since graduating from the Royal College of Art in 1996. She has worked successfully in publishing, editorial and design. Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6. 01702 434449 www.southendmuseums.co.uk 4 Dec - 3 Jan Victorian Christmas Trail Learn how the Victorian defined Christmas as we know it, and the traditions that inspired Charles Dickens’ ‘Christmas Carol’. Castle Park, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1TJ. www.colchestericerink.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 27 Nov - 3 Jan Colchester Winter Wonderland An amazing new, exciting and fun filled Winter Wonderland and ice rink in this iconic park. Castle Park, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1TJ. www.colchestericerink.co.uk 4-6 Dec Christmas Gift Fair A Christmas Gift Fair selling a range of seasonal handmade goods, under cover in the historic Town Hall. 1 Market Place, Saffron Walden, CB10 1HR. 01799 524002 www.visitsaffronwalden.gov.uk 5-Dec The Craft & Gift Fair The Craft & Gift Fair will have a festive theme and will be a great opportunity to grab some Christmas gifts, decorations and food products.10am - 4pm. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-13 Dec Brightlingsea Christmas Tree Festival Scores of illuminated and decorated Christmas trees, live Christmas music all day. Christmas shop, Christmas pantry, homemade cake stall, hot chestnuts, mulled wine. Town Centre, Brightlingsea, CO7 0BP. www.brightlingseachristmastreefestival.co.uk 13-Dec Reindeer Dash 1km or 5km family friendly run or walk around Castle park raising vital funds for St Helena Hospice. Castle Park, High Street, Colchester CO1 1TJ. www.colchestericerink.co.uk 19-Dec Christmas Fair - Made in Colchester Take part in free art and craft workshops, treat yourself to a drink and some delicious sweet or savoury homemade food from the pop up cafe. Colchester Arts Centre, Church Street, Colchester, CO1 1NF. AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 1-Jan Essex Absofab Vintage Antiques Fabulous stalls offering you a wide range of vintage, quirky, retro, salvaged, antiques and collectables. Admission £1. St. John’s Church Hall, High Road, Buckhurst Hill, IG9 5RX 079562 21710 3-Jan Essex Antiques & Collectables Fair Jewellery and lots more. Admission £1. 7 High Street, Ingatestone, CM4 9ED. 07780 971214

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CHRISTMAS IN

COLCHESTER With its bustling town centre, attractions and restaurants it’s no surprise that Colchester is full of fun festive things to do this month. This Christmas sees the addition of a winter wonderland and ice rink in Castle Park. Visitors will be able to take a whirl around the ice, browse the winter market for gifts and crafts and warm up hot food and mulled wine. The winter wonderland is open from 27 November to 3 January, excluding Christmas Day. If that’s not enough to get you into the Christmas spirit, we’ve picked our favourite events taking place throughout December: Christmas & Boxing Day If you’ve still not settled on plans for Christmas and Boxing Day, there’s still time to leave the hard work to someone else and head to Stoke By Nayland Hotel for Christmas lunch and Boxing Day brunch. Christmas day dining includes a five-course meal, priced £79 per person, while you can feast on pancakes, cereals and more on Boxing Day for £19.50 per person. There’s always an initial slump after Christmas but if you want to keep the celebrations going visit Stoke By Nayland Boxing Day from 8pm for an evening of live music from soul singer Irie J. Tickets priced £10 per person. Christmas Late Night Shopping Starts Every Wednesday in December in the run up to Christmas, shops open until 9pm. Free car parking after 3pm on late night shopping days. Check website for participating car parks. www.visitcolchester.com Visit Father Christmas at Williams & Griffin From Saturday 5 December – every weekend until Christmas Eve; pre-book your tickets for an extra special experience. www.williegee.com Frozen Activity & Heart Angels Saturday 5 December – meet Ana and Elsa in Culver Square for photographs, have your face painted and make Christmas cards and decorations. www.culversquare.co.uk Colchester Christmas Fair, High Street, Sunday 6 December, 10.30am-5pm, free

entry, traditional and exotic hot food, loads of presents and fun. Traditional ‘cake hurling’ by the Mayor. www.foodanddrinkfestivalsuk.co.uk Christmas at Colchester Castle Wednesday 9 December, 3 – 8.30pm, free entry A great festive treat as Colchester Castle opens this night for free. Visit Santa’s grotto. www.cimuseums.org.uk Snow Globe with Heart FM’s Angels Saturday 12 December – Hearts FM’s Angels bring their giant snow globe to Culver Square. Jump inside the wintery scene. www.culversquare.co.uk Festive Fun at Firstsite From Sunday 13 to 30 December – Festive fun from ballet and Frozen singalong to films and art activities. Event times vary. www.firstsite.net Santa’s Elves Invade Culver Square Saturday 19 December – Christmas quizzes, festive music, balloons and puppets. www.culversquare.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 125

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

What’s on in

Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 30 Nov - 2 Dec The Great Gatsby Immersing you in the decadence of America’s ‘Jazz Age’, The Great Gatsby is brought to life in this sizzling new stage adaptation from nationally acclaimed Blackeyed Theatre. Recreating the sights, sounds and feel of America’s ‘Roaring Twenties’ as seen through the eyes of Nick Carraway, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece is a brilliant evocation of a society obsessed with wealth and status. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 2-5 Dec Girls Like That This explosive play captures our increasingly distorted sense of reality and the pressures on today’s digital generation. While it is viciously funny, it speaks with brutal honesty and shockingly reveals not only the messed up standards that are imposed on young women by men, but more importantly by the women themselves. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 3 Dec - 3 Jan Aladdin Magic, adventure and excitement are always a major part of panto at the Key – together with an abundance of slapstick, humour, music and spectacle and this story has it all. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 4-Dec Jesterlarf Comedy Club Headliner Ninia Benjamin is a tour-de-force of comedy…she’s rude and outrageous but above all side-splittingly funny. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 5-Dec Sean McLoughlin: Whatever It Takes After finally clawing his career out of the toilet and towards the stars, Sean McLoughlin should be at his happiest, right? Unfortunately this long-awaited improvement in career has coincided with an astonishing collapse in his personal life (floods, divorce, cats etc). Sean has beaten the system and yet finds himself at the mercy of it. From these two conflicting circumstances a question has emerged: Can a man rise and fall at the same time? The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 6-Dec First Stage Another season of four Sunday evenings of new drama, presented by WRiTEON, the Cambridge Script. ADC Theatre, Park Street Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com

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8-12 Dec Maskerade Take a pinch of Phantom of the Opera, fold in the Marx Brothers and Monty Python and warm hilariously under the satirical glow of the late Sir Terry Pratchett for an evening of sustained silliness for the whole family. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 8-31 Dec Snow White and Rose Red Snow White likes to tell stories and paint. Rose Red likes to race with the deer and the wolves. When a friendly bear knocks on their door, the mischievous sisters have no idea that it’s the beginning of a magnificent adventure. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk

CATHEDRAL EVENSONG TO BE BROADCAST LIVE FROM PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL ON 2 DECEMBER BBC Radio 3 will broadcast the service of Choral Evensong live from Peterborough Cathedral on Wednesday 2 December. The 3.30pm service will also be aired on Radio 3 on Sunday 6 December, at 3pm. All are welcome to attend the service and the congregation are asked to be seated by 3.15pm at the latest. The service will include two hymns for the congregation to join in with, and the music sung by Peterborough Cathedral Choir will be:Responses Martin, Byrd Vigilate, Gibbons Second Service, Martin A song of the new Jerusalem and Psalms 12, 13, 14. Choral Evensong, will last approx. 45 minutes.

6-Dec Little Red and the Wolves Proteus create a thrilling, hauntingly beautiful and contemporary version of the classic Little Red Riding Hood. Funny, scary, action packed and featuring the hallmarks of Proteus’ highly acclaimed and much loved family shows. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 8-Dec Showstopper! The Improvised Musical This incredible comedy troupe never fail to impress as they create shows packed with drama, dazzling dance routines and catchy melodies, leaving delighted audiences singing all the way home. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk

9-Dec Can ipods (and Chairs and Lampshades) Grow on Trees? Join two pioneers in green manufacture as they rethink the way we make the objects around us. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 12-30 Dec The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Follow the yellow brick road to the magical city of Oz, and join Dorothy in her adventures. Meet the scarecrow, tin man and lion along the way, and help them find the wizard to defeat the wicked witch and get Dorothy and Toto back home! We’re thrilled to announce this year’s star name, Steven Arnold who will be playing the Scarecrow. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 13 Dec - 17 Jan Cinderella Join Cambridge Arts Theatre this Christmas for the greatest love story ever told. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 14-Dec Jane Eyre Almost 170 years on, Charlotte Brontë’s story of the trailblazing Jane is as inspiring as ever. This bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfilment on her own terms. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 15-Dec Science and Nature in Concert The concert will be introduced by a 10-minutes presentation about how scientific data can become music and the audience will be guided through the music and sounds they are going to listen to. Mumford Theatre, East Road

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 16-20 Dec Peter Pan Peter Pan is a boy who didn’t want to grow up and has spent his life in Neverland battling the pirates and Indians. When he brings the Darling children to Neverland with him, he is finally able to fight his biggest enemy, the elegant Captain Hook. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com 18-20 Dec Jack and the Beanstalk Packed solid with comedy, excitement and adventure, the children will love to cheer their hero Jack and boo the evil Mayor Botchett. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk MUSIC 2-Dec Jay Williams and the I Strip for Couples Promising a night of cinematic, rock, orchestral, indie, alt country music, peppered with rap and occasional operatic moments – they will also be showcasing tracks from the two new albums Jay is currently writing - expect a night of explosive yet intimate and intelligent music. The Junction , Clifton Way , Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 3-Dec One Night of Queen ‘One Night of Queen’ is a spectacular live concert, recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of arguably the greatest rock band of all time. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 4-Dec That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show Get ready for a party as the UK’s most successful Rock ‘N’ Roll variety show, the legendary That’ll Be The Day, returns with its Brand New 2015 Christmas Show! The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 5-Dec CUMS Symphony Orchestra A Russian Evening with John Wilson. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge CB3 9DP. 01223 335184. www.westroad.org 6-Dec The Salvation Army A wonderful mixed evening of traditional, contemporary and participative Christmas music and more. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184 www.westroad.org 10-Dec Dr. Feelgood Dr. Feelgood are one of the most popular and exciting live rhythm and blues acts in the world, thrilling crowds with their uncompromising sound and vitality. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 12-Dec Ezio Deep, honest, emotional songs that hit a raw nerve. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk

12-Dec Anglia Ruskin Student Music Concert Solo and ensemble performances by current students on the Music and Popular Music degree programmes. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 12-Dec Joanna Eden Recently, singer-songwriter Joanna Eden has found fame thanks to her student Sam Smith who has been singing her praises all over the world. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 12-Dec Collegium Laureatum A selection of Magnificats by CPE Bach, Telemann, Zelenka and Kuhnau. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184. www.westroad.org 14-Dec Handel’s Messiah In this performance Britten Sinfonia are joined by a stellar quartet of soloists for a festive performance that is sure to be both thrilling and jubilant. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184. www.westroad.org 16-Dec The West End at Christmas Stars from the West End present a magical evening of entertainment featuring hits from the musicals and the best of Christmas song. The talented cast have starred in many West End productions and national tours. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 18-Dec Carols by Candlelight The Locrian Ensemble are firmly established as one of Britain’s most popular touring groups. They have a host of television and film credits to their name and have recently topped the classical charts with their playing for Debbie Wiseman’s BBC TV score of “Wolf Hall”. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 20-Dec Prime Brass Family Christmas Concerts A fun-filled hour of seasonal music for all the family, brought to you by the irrepressible Prime Brass, who are joined by King’s Junior Voices and Junior Prime Brass. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184. www.westroad.org 27-Dec Fenjazz A Christmas celebration jam. Angels Theatre Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 474447. www.anglestheatre.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 29 Nov - 31 Dec Christmas Cracker 2015 Byard Art’s Christmas Cracker exhibition offers a constantly changing display of contemporary art work, with pieces ranging from original paintings and jewellery to ceramics, sculpture and glass. It is the ideal destination if you are on the look out for Christmas shopping gift ideas in Cambridge. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade

Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk 1 Dec - 31 Jan Ronald Searle: ‘Obsessed with drawing This exhibition is drawn from a recent gift of the artist’s work, generously presented to the Museum by his children in 2014. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 1 Dec - 31 Jan 1939-1945: World at War Banknotes and coins reveal little known aspects of World War II. See this currency for yourself and learn about rampant inflation as the nations at war struggled to pay for the conflict. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 8-Dec Art speak Enjoy half an hour looking at and talking about art. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 5-19 Dec A Wimpole Christmas Join in making decorations and gifts to take home, visit the house, gardens and farm magnificently decorated for Christmas. Craft activities, storytelling, tea with an expert, Christmas wreath making and much more. Every weekend in the lead up to Christmas. Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston, SG8 0BW. 01223 206000 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events 9-17 Dec Christmas Elves Workshop meet Father Christmas in his workshop as he prepares for the big day. There will be lots of Christmassy crafts, and a trail to follow. Booking Essential. Wednesday and Thursday. Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve, Lode Lane, Wicken, CB7 5XP. 01353 720274 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events 12-13 Dec Cambridgeshire Christmas Crafts & Food Fair Visit the indoor arena and sample and buy from wide range of arts, craft and gift stalls where you might find anything from jewellery and other accessories, handicrafts, hand made cards and more. Wood Green, Godmanchester Cambridge, PE29 2NH. 01206 263088 www.oakleighfairs.co.uk 16-Dec Who, What, Where and When? Stephen’s famous Christmas miscellany. A series of fascinating afternoon local history talks by local historian Stephen Perry. John Clare Theatre, Peterborough Central Library, Peterborough, PE1 1RX. 01733 864280 www.vivacity-peterborough.com ANTIQUES & AUCTIONS 2-Jan St Ives Antiques Fair The St Ives Antiques Fair is a two-day event. As well as providing a spacious hall for around 55 specialist dealers, there is free parking. Admission £2. The Burgess Hall, Westwood Road, St Ives, PE27 6WU. 01480 896866

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CHRISTMAS IN CAMBRIDGE With vibrant Cambridge at its centre, the historic city of Ely and plenty of market towns, Cambridgeshire offers some fantastic Christmas shopping opportunities. Cambridge is full of hidden treasures within its indie stores. Anne Beamish, editor of Independent Cambridge, tell us the why its best to shop the independent way this Christmas… “In the wonderful world of high street retail, Christmas is crucial. For many independent traders, the sales they make over the festive period will help them through the leaner first couple of months of the next year. Many more people are now shopping online, but did you know that means less money going back in the local economy? Around 60p of each £1 spent locally, stays locally, compared to a measly 5p if you spend it online, so it makes sense on many levels to shop local. And as for getting in the Yuletide spirit, shopping via a screen doesn’t really hit the spot does it? The effort independent shop owners put in to making their stores look and feel wonderfully Christmassy makes it worth stepping through the door for in itself. It’s also so much more fun to shop indie. For the past few years I have set myself an ‘Indie-Christmas Shopping Challenge’ where I aim to buy all of my presents, food and drink from my local independents. I have to say, it’s been really enjoyable, to me it feels like Christmas shopping used to be. eastlife.co.uk | 131

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So here’s my top five places to shop for gifts in Cambridge, but wherever you are, why not try it yourself this Christmas and have fun! 1.CATESBY’S 10 GREEN STREET, CAMBRIDGE CB2 3JU Everything at this home and interiors shop is chosen for its timeless quality with a muted colour palette and seasonal accents (though Christmas at Catesby’s is rather more opulent and has to be seen to be believed!). 2.CAMBRIDGE TOY SHOP 15-16 SUSSEX STREET, CAMBRIDGE CB1 1PA A truly fabulous traditional style toy shop, offering thousands of toys and games for all ages from pocket money and party presents to gifts for all those special occasions. 3.HOMESTUFF WITH HISTORY 5 GREEN STREET, CAMBRIDGE CB2 3JU This isn’t another shop selling ‘vintage-styled’ stuff, this is the real deal! 4.PODAROK 12 BENE’T STREET, CAMBRIDGE CB2 3PT Podarok stocks an eclectic mix of everything from jewellery to lampshades, leather satchels to pocket money toys – something for everyone. 5.NOMADS 5 KING’S PARADE CAMBRIDGE CB2 1SJ This amazing shop, which has now been in business for over 30 years, is on two floors but the lower floor really is a world in itself (the range of jewellery is particularly impressive). These independent shops and more can be found in the latest edition of Independent Cambridge available from Waterstones and Heffers in Cambridge, many of the independent shops and on the website at www.independent-cambridge.co.uk priced £7.99

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NORFOLK

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Norfolk

THEATRE & SHOWS 1-5 Dec An Inspector Calls When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the prosperous Birling family home, their peaceful dinner party is shattered by his investigations into the death of a young woman. His startling revelations shake the very foundations of their lives and challenge us all to examine our consciences. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 3-5-Dec Mitch Ben: Don’t Believe a Word It’s a show that will make you laugh a lot and think a bit as well as Mitch debunks myths, exposes nonsense and grapples with the very nature of knowledge itself extolling the virtues of an evidence-based approach to life. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. 3-5 Dec Women of Troy One of the greatest tragedies of Ancient Greek theatre, brought to life in a modern and dramatic production. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 4-Dec Roy Chubby Brown He’s still rude, he’s still crude and this time he’s turning headlines into punch lines as his rip-roaring brand of banter continues to burst bellies across the country. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH . 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk

5 Dec - 1 Jan Aladdin Come and join Aladdin on a Magical Carpet ride at The Princess and get your Christmas off to a flying start! Princess Theatre, 13 The Green Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 5-Dec Tigerlilys Christmas Special 2015 The Tigerlilys bring you a magical and sparkly winter wonderland of traditional variety of song and dance - to warm your hearts and get you in the Christmas spirit. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens , Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP 01493 662832. www.gorlestonpavilion.co.uk 8-Dec Jane Eyre Almost 170 years on, Charlotte Brontë’s story of the trailblazing Jane is as inspiring as ever. This bold and dynamic production uncovers one woman’s fight for freedom and fulfilment on her own terms. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 9 Dec - 2 Jan Dick Whittington Ohyesitiz Productions are pleased to present to you the traditional family pantomime Dick

EDITOR’S CHOICE

CHRISTMAS AT BRESSINGHAM STEAM Father Christmas is visiting Bressingham Steam, near Diss in the run up to Christmas, arriving every day by steam car. Father Christmas, his wife and elves, will be at Bressingham on the 29 Nov, 5-6, 12-13, 19, 20, 22, 23 & 24 December 2015. All days but the 24 Dec have entry from 2pm to 5pm. 13, 19, 20 Dec have an additional 12pm to 2pm entry slot. As well as meeting Father Christmas, visitors will be able to enjoy a Dad’s Army Christmas at Walmington-on-Sea and take rides on a steam train and Bress-ingham’s celebrated Victorian steam Gallopers roundabout. Book in advance to guarantee meeting Father Christmas. Tickets in advance are priced adult £10.50, children 3-12 £12.50 and under 3s £6 . Tel: 01379 686900 Whittington and his Cat. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832. www.gorlestonpavilion.co.uk 10-12 Dec The Three Musketeers Alexandre Dumas’ rip-roaring yarn of derringdo, palace intrigue and slushy amour is seamlessly transformed into un panto cordon bleu! Cheer les Musketeers trés swashbuckling as they foil Cardinal Richeleeugh and rescue le True Quiche of Lorraine! Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 10-Dec A Christmas Carol Featuring much-loved characters including Fezziwig, Tiny Tim and the old humbug himself, Dickens’ classic Christmas tale is the perfect way to get into the true festive spirit. Hoxne Village

Hall, IP21 5AN

10-Dec Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol In Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol Doctor Watson’s failed attempts to cheer Holmes into celebrating the holiday season, forces the unrepentant, ill-tempered detective to deduce the facts and solve the most important mystery of his life – past, present and future. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 www.granarytheatre.co.uk 10-12 Dec Jack The Ripper The Panto Based on the 19th century’s most notorious killer, Jack The Ripper The Panto is a love story with prostitutes, murders, drugs and a good old sing song. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk

10 Dec - 3 Jan Robin Hood This brand new adventure has all the ingredients for a classic pantomime, with stunning costumes, live music and the usual comedy mayhem. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn , PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 12-Dec The Intellectual Hooligans The show will consist of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” games based on audience suggestions. Prior to the show, there will be a one hour workshop open to anyone wishing to try their hand at improv. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk

12 Dec - 2 Jan Cinderella This year’s panto promises as much singing, dancing and hilarity as ever – and perhaps even more tidings of comfort and joy. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 14-Dec Jay Rayner: My Dining Hell Jay Rayner has been a restaurant critic for over a decade, written reviews of well over 700 establishments, and if there is one thing he’s learnt it is that people like reviews of bad restaurants. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 15 Dec - 17 Jan Snow White You can expect all the usual traditional ingredients for a fabulous family pantomime - the Dame, songsheets, comedy routines, spectacular sets and special effects, beautiful costumes, unexpected surprises and, of course, lots of opportunities for you to hiss and boo!

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NORFOLK Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 18 Dec - 2 Jan The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy embark on a magical mystery tour to the Land of Narnia through the wardrobe. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 18-30 Dec The Wind in the Willows This Christmas, Westacre Studio Theatre is transformed into the Wild Wood - a place of mystery, fun and adventure, inhabitedby the much loved creatures of Kenneth Grahame’s timeless tale. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre. PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 23-Dec A Brief History of Christmas ‘A Brief History of Christmas’ is a whistle-stop tour of the origins of our midwinter festivities. Featuring long-forgotten songs and tales as well as some familiar and well-loved carols. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193. www.granarytheatre.co.uk

alism of the people who make up today’s RAF. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 7-Dec The Locrian Ensemble: Carols by Candlelight The Locrian Ensemble are firmly established as one of Britain’s most popular touring classical groups. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 8-9 Dec It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas You’ll be transported to a magical winter wonderland as Joe and the company treat you to an unforgettable display of sensational singing, dazzling dancing and masterful musicianship. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk

10-Dec Cavalleria Rusticana and Pagliacci Two complementary works tell dark tales of passionate love that sours to violent jealousy. Both Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci are prime examples of verismo opera. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com MUSIC 4-Dec G2 Definitive Genesis 13-Dec Laura White G2 Definitive Genesis pays tribute to a Laura does not only sing jazz, she can aptly Vintage period in Genesis’ long and colourbe described as a cross over singer and is well ful history, the four-man “Seconds Out” era known as a member of the very popular (1975-78),whilst also dipping back into the Voxettes three part harmony group. Sheringham earlier Gabriel years. Maddermarket Theatre, Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 4-Dec Something Happened at Christmas Something Happened once again combine irreverent humour and sparkling musicianship for this new show, revealing little-known Yuletide classics as well as giving their own treatment to much- loved favourites. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU 01328 710193. www.granarytheatre.co.uk 6-Dec A Triple T Family Christmas Featuring seasonal songs from some classic musical theatre films and shows alongside all time Christmas favourites this is a night that will be full of festive fun to really get you into the yuletide spirit. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens , Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP 01493 662832. www.gorlestonpavilion.co.uk 6-Dec The Albion Christmas Band The well-planned tour has ensured the band will visit all parts of the country for audiences to enjoy a taste of Christmas without the commercialism. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 6-Dec RAF in Concert 75 years on from the historic battle, the bands of the Royal Air Force present an evocative and rousing evening of musical entertainment that captures the essence of 1940’s Britain and tells the story of how the spirit and capability of those who took part endures in the profession-

18-Dec Swann & Dyer Winter Warmers A fun-filled festive evening of well-known sing along Christmas carols interspersed with famous of Music Hall numbers. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street , Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU 01328 710193. www.granarytheatre.co.uk 30-31 Dec New Year Music Hall Traditional songs, sketches and sing-alongs from the wonderful world of the Victorian and Edwardian Music Hall. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1-31 Dec Lynn Lumiere Ticking clocks, primeval plants and mesmerising whirlpools are appearing on some of King’s Lynn’s most iconic buildings in a series of spectacular light shows. You’ll see the historic town in an entirely different light! Town Centre King’s Lynn 5 Dec - 10 Apr Newfoundland Newfoundland is an exhibition of work by contemporary jeweller Romilly Saumarez Smith. Each of the pieces is unique and has at its core Roman, Anglo-Saxon or Mediaeval metalwork, dropped or discarded hundreds of years ago. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 593199. scva.ac.uk

5 Dec - 13 Jan Christmas Exhibition Part Two A new collection of work for Christmas from selected artists featuring wire bird sculpture by Celia Smith. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 www.birchamgallery.co.uk 10-Dec SPIEL presents Harold Offeh Harold Offeh is an artist and curator whose work encompasses performance, participation, video and photography. His work employs humour and explores aspects of contemporary culture. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 www.norwichartscentre.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 4-6 Dec Deepdale Christmas Market Stock up on all those Christmas decorations and presents at the Deepdale Christmas Market, while enjoying plenty of festive cheer and carols. Dalegate Market, Main Road, Deepdale, PE31 8FB. 01485 210036. www.deepdalechristmasmarket.co.uk 6-Dec Little Vintage Lover Fair With over 20 exhibitors invited to bring you their collections of clothing, textiles, accessories, homewares, books and much more ca 1920s1980s to help you find that special christmas gift that you won’t find anywhere else. Holt Hall, Kelling Road, Holt, NR25 6RT www.littlevintageloverfair.co.uk 10-23 Dec Father Christmas at Maddermarket Theatre Father Christmas will be visiting with his helpers this Christmas in his special magical grotto at the Maddermarket Theatre. £5 per child. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 18-21 Dec An Audience with Father Christmas It’s a chance to listen to tales of wonderment and to meet Father and Mother Christmas and our band of cheeky elves too, whose infectious Christmas spirit will welcome one and all. Holkham Hall, Holkham Estate, Wells-next-theSea, NR23 1AB. 01328 713111 www.holkham.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 1-Dec Antiques & Collectors Fair Dealers in glass, porcelain, books, coins, shabby chic and art deco style furniture and much more. Community Hall, Garden Street, Cromer, NR27 9HH. 07501 782821 6-Dec Horsham St. Faiths Art Antiques & Collectors Fairs Art Antiques & Collectables. Free Parking. Entrance £1, under 16s free. St Faiths Centre, Manor Road, Horsham St Faiths, NR10 3LF 27-Dec Blakeney Antique & Collectors Fair Maximum 24 Tables. Well Attended Throughout The Year. Free Parking, Blakeney Village Hall, Blakeney, NR25 7NQ. 01263 713120

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AREA FOCUS

FESTIVE

KING’S LYNN

Anyone visiting King’s Lynn this Christmas is in for a festive treat. With a themed light show, medieval Christmas market and winter walks, there’s plenty to see and do in the popular North Norfolk market town and beyond. LET THERE BE LIGHT

King’s Lynn’s stunning light shows ‘Lynn Lumière’ take on some marvellous twists with a festive theme. Following the big switch on celebrations at the end of last month, six new festive themed light shows will bathe some of King’s Lynn’s most prominent buildings in animated displays for all the family to enjoy throughout December. Watch out for stunning displays at St Nicholas’ Chapel, King’s Lynn Minster, Greyfriars Tower, The Custom House as well family fun film projections in Tuesday Market Place and the Vancouver Quarter, which will be on-show from dusk.

MEDIEVAL MARKET

Step back in time from 11-13 December as King’s Lynn is transported back to medieval times. Visit the medieval market (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) to enjoy the skill and craftsmanship of merchants and artisans in the magnificent Tuesday Market Place. Visit the Mary Rose pop up exhibition, enjoy the Hog roast and Tudor food and even try your hand at archery. The weekend features two medieval specials with a 20-dish banquet at the historic Town Hall on Friday 11 December and a classic Christmas Carols Concert by the Mediaeval Baebes. Both events have limited tickets, check for availability at King’s Lynn Tourist Information Centre www.kingslynnchristmas.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 139

AREA FOCUS

WILDLIFE WALKS

Outside King’s Lynn, the wonderful coastline and open unspoilt countryside take on a special winter magic with wonderful opportunities to enjoy nature and some stunning wildlife. The West Norfolk coastline and the waterways of the Ouse Washes which stretch out across the Fens are one of the top winter destination for simply thousands and thousands of migrating geese, swans and wildfowl. For one of the most amazing wildlife spectacles take a trip to the Welney Wildfowl and Wetland Centre, near Downham Market to see thousands of swans gliding in to land as the sun sets at the end of each day on their watery winter home of the Ouse Washes. Witness this amazing sight from the comfort of the heated hides to see swan feeds at 3.30pm and flood lit feeds at 6.30pm Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Alternatively pop up to the coast at RSPB Snettisham and RSPB Titchwell near Hunsanton for more birdlife wonders. Try a guided dawn walk at Snettisham to see thousands of pink footed Geese on their overhead flypast followed by a hearty breakfast (booking essential). For the novice and more experienced ‘birders’, RSPB’s Titchwell’s ‘guided wildlife walks’, ‘Wings over Titchwell’ and ‘Beginners Birding walks’ are all great ways of exploring the beautiful marshland reserve. Booking is essential. Back in King’s Lynn, you can take a Pantomime journey into the enchanted world of Sherwood Forest with Robin Hood and his motley band of Merry Men in the ‘Adventures of Robin Hood’ at The Alive Corn Exchange. Alternatively join Aladdin on a Magical Carpet ride at The Princess Theatre, Hunstanton. Details of many more December events and attractions can be found at at the Tourist Information centre. Tel: 01553 616643

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AREA FOCUS

SEASONAL

SWAFFHAM stories of Swaffham and soldiers of the First World War are not forgotten. Central in this gallery is the model steam engine made by Harry Carter, the Norfolk sign maker, artist, teacher and resident of the town. The fourth gallery currently focuses on the market in its celebratory year (the town was called Swaffham Market from the 13th to the 18th century) and the story of the Swaffham Pedlar who, in the 15th century, by a dream found enough money to build the north aisle of a new church complete with floor, roof and stained glass windows. The Museum is open Monday to Friday 10am - 4pm and Saturdays 10am – 1pm. However, it is closed between 23 December and 13 February. With its gorgeous Georgian buildings, friendly community spirit and independent stores, cafes and restaurants, Swaffham is a great place to visit. Earlier this year the town celebrated over 800 years of a weekly Saturday market – the first written record was in 1216 - but remains of a pagan Saxon cemetery were discovered in the 1970s and there are many finds from scattered prehistoric settlements in and around the town. The weekly Saturday market held in the Market Place offers a mix of stalls from local food producers to antiques and clothing, while the Farmer’s Market, which is held every third Sunday of the month, has wonderful buzzing atmosphere as locals and tourists browse the many local food producers. The next Farmers Market takes place 21 December, just in time to stock up on goodies for Christmas.

To make the most of your visit take a free town trail leaflet from the museum and explore the town. There are currently three to choose from. Look for the red cards around the town. The museum has a market trail and a children’s ‘I Spy Swaffham’ A trail of the buildings of Swaffham will be available from January. All are available from the museum shop, which is also the Tourist Information Office. In the heart of the Market Place is the Arts Lounge. A favourite among art lovers and visitors, the gallery is designed around a beautiful brickwork fireplace and features a mix of works from talented artists, e xhibitions and exciting events calendar.

For those wanting to learn about the town’s history, stop by the Swaffham Museum. The museum is an independent Social History Heritage Centre, which tells the story of the town and its neighbourhood at the northern edge of the Brecks. The museum highlights an eclectic collection of Town Treasures. It holds the town armour dating from the days of the Civil War as well as the key to the Swaffham Prison and the communion set of the Union Workhouse. Local residents tell their

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SOCIAL SCENE

WELCOME TO THE

SOCIAL SCENE COMPETITION

Thanks to everyone who tweeted us their scenic shots from around the region!

Image: Dotcomgiftshop

This month we’re starting the Christmas celebrations early with our biggest competition of the year! We’re giving back to our readers with our ‘12 Days of Christmas’ giveaway. From 1-12 December we will be offering a fantastic prize to one lucky reader each day. Make sure you ‘Like’ our Facebook page for more details! HERE’S WHAT’S UP FOR GRABS:

£30 voucher for Dotcomgiftshop Festive afternoon tea at Hallmark Flitwick Manor Ice skating tickets to the North Pole Cambridge Little Tykes Toys An iBeani Dinner for two at Reyes Cambridge Murad skin care kit A Motorola Focus 85 An Albelli Photobook Drumond Park Games Dinner for two at Tutti Grille Family ticket to ‘The Wizard of Oz – A magical ice show’ at Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre, Chelmsford

The Eastlife team enjoyed a festive evening at The North Pole launch at Parkers Piece, Cambridge

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Friends’ School SaffronWalden Year 7 Scholarships Scholarships are available in Sport, Music, Art and Drama and worth £1000 per term. The Academic Scholarship is worth up to 50% of the day fee. Call Alison Stanbury on 01799 525351 or email admissions@friends.org.uk to arrange an individual tour of the school and find out more about Friends’. You can be assured of a warm welcome.

“A place where individuality is cherished, catered for and celebrated.” The Good Schools Guide www.friends.org.uk admissions@friends.org.uk 01799 525351