Eastlife March 2016

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eastlife

eastlife www.eastlife.co.uk

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March 2016

Living life in the East

Make the most of where you live

NEWMARKET

NIGHTS

ARE BACK T H E C O R R S • WI L L YOU NG BUSTED • TEARS FOR FEARS J E S S G LY N N E • L I T T L E M I X Issue 130

A ND MO R E . . .

MARCH 2016


Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the A-Class range: urban 30.7(9.2)72.4(3.9), extra urban 50.4(5.6)-88.3(3.2), combined 40.9(6.9)-80.7(3.5). CO2 emissions 162-89 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.

The A-Class. Athletic at first sight. Introducing the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Incorporating essential changes that refine a modern icon, the new A-Class continues to stride ahead of the competition. It’s sharp, sporty looks and bold contemporary interior still defines the revived generation of Mercedes-Benz, and with five model lines and a choice of engines available it offers the perfect opportunity to reflect your true individuality. Yours from just £279 per month* with three years’ free servicing^ as standard.

The best or nothing.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 769676 Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401100 Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307

East Life DPS Aclass Ad.indd 1

Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751000 Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900 www.yourmercedes.co.uk


Representative example A 180 SE with manual transmission 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

£279.00 £21,065.00 £3,169.59 £0.00 £10,550.00 £17,895.41 £23,773.59 £10.00 6.4% 6.23%

Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance on behalf of other finance companies as well. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz A 180 SE with manual transmission at £21,065.00 on-the-road including optional metallic paint at £570.00 (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Finance offer based on a new A 180 SE 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 A-Class models between 1 January and 31 March 2016, registered by 30 June 2016. ^Free servicing based on 3 services over 36 months or 30,000 miles on A-Class models. 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. Prices correct at time of going to print.

08/02/2016 09:23


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*

Prices from £294,995

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.


eastlife would like to thank its

CONTRIBUTORS LIZ JANE MATTOCK Passionate freelance writer GERLA DE BOER Globetrotter foodie

THAILA SKYE Courageous Ostomy YouTube Vlogger AMANDA FRENCH Lifestyle blogger & PR pro NICOLA SHEEHAN Mummy, blogger and frustrated novelist SUE COOKE Passionate motoring journalist COLLETTE HOEFKENS Proprietor at Norton Way Gallery KATE GOULD Award-winning garden designer KATRINA OTTER Wedding planner extraordinaire

PUBLISHER Sean Thompson sean@eastmag.com - 01954 267696 EDITOR Emma Kemsley emma@eastmag.com - 01954 267904 PRODUCTION MANAGER Craig Lewis craig@eastmag.com - 01954 268142 SOCIAL MEDIA Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastmag.com - 07921 235539 ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastmag.com - 01954 268129 HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth Cambridge, CB23 4EY EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.

A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR Dear Reader, Spring, the beautiful time of year that brings us back to life is almost upon us, and there’s plenty to look forward to. This month not only promises warmer weather (we hope), but also Mother’s Day and Easter. In this issue we round up how to make the most of the days ahead. From ideas to spoil your mum to Easter fun at the region’s top farms, there’s plenty of inspiration for days out. Our cities are in the spotlight this month with the return of Norwich Fashion Week and Cambridge Style Week, plus some of the region’s tourism experts tell us how to make the most of the Norfolk Broads, Cambridge and beyond. Don’t forget there is exclusive content at www.eastlife.co.uk - visit now for the best spring markets, more Easter days out and our latest reviews. Emma Kemsley

DON’T MISS US ON SOCIAL MEDIA FACEBOOK

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ALL ACT IVITIES

FAMILY FUN FREE THIS EASTER 11AM – 4PM

Good Friday 25th March The Mad Hatter: Magic, balloon models and all sorts of mischief Saturday 26th March Face Painting and an Easter Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza Easter Sunday & Bank Holiday Monday 27th & 28th March Mini Petting Farm – Ducklings, Bunnies, Goats, Chicks and lots more

Clacton Factory Outlet, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4TL Contact us or visit us online to get more news on events, store offers and much more! 01255 479595 www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk

FASHION OUTLETS • LEISURE STORES • CAFES FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES • FREE PARKING


MARCH 9-13 news flash A round-up of monthly news and events 17-19 MOTHER’S DAY special Spoil your mum with our gift ideas and days out 25-28 NORFOLK BROADS The ultimate guide to exploring the Broads this Spring 33-43 Little East We list the best farms for a family day out and our mummy columnist tells us what she really wants for Mother’s Day 53–55 Food & Drink Read our latest restaurant reviews and suggestions 57-59 Fashion Fashion fever takes over Norwich and Cambridge 60-63 Weddings Katrina Otter reveals this year’s hottest trends plus we learn more about wedding childcare 95-101 Beds, Bucks & Herts Reasons to love Hatfield and Welwyn plus theatre listings 103-107 Suffolk The top attractions of Stowmarket and county events 111-115 ESSEX How to make the most of Essex’s villages plus event listings 116-123 CAMBRIDGESHIRE The CEO of Visit Cambridge & Beyond, Emma Thornton, shares her tips for exploring the city 125-135 NORFOLK Secret gardens, new attractions and this months best events

contents

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Newmarket Nights 2016

NEWS FLASH

NEWS FLASH

Jess Glynne is the latest act to be announced

Little Mix perform 27 August

The Jockey Club Live and Newmarket Nights are back this year with a stunning set of live concerts. Held in the open-air setting of the July Course, Newmarket Nights offers a value for money experience. Alongside a show-stopping headlining performance by some of the world’s biggest artists, the action kicks off earlier in the day with a six race card - giving fans the chance to witness powerful equine athletes who are stars in their own right, and enjoy the thrilling drama and spectacle of them racing for glory. The latest announcement comes in the form of pop sensation Jess Glynne, who will be headlining on 12 August. She is the biggest breakthrough artist of the year - her number one charting debut album, ‘I Cry When I Laugh‘, has now turned double

platinum in the UK, making it the highest selling debut album of 2015. Bringing her incredible stage show to Newmarket, you’ll be sure to dance the night away to her number-ones including ‘Hold My Hand’, ‘Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself’ and ‘My Love’. Jess will be joining already announced acts The Corrs (17 June), Will Young (24 June), Busted (22 July) and Tears for Fears (29 July) with Little Mix (27 August) headlining Summer Saturday Live, the final concert of the summer season. Last year’s award-winning season saw Newmarket Nights win the Group Leisure Award for ‘Best Event For Groups’ in 2014/15 and welcomed Spandau Ballet, Tom Jones and Kaiser Chiefs to the green, collectively playing to over 100,000 fans. The season launched with a sell out crowd of 22,000 achieved in a record breaking 40 minutes for the showgirl herself, Kylie. Tickets for all shows are available now from thejockeyclublive.co.uk

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Tickets now on sale for The American Air Show and Flying Legends at IWM Duxford IWM Duxford have announced that tickets for The American Air Show taking place Bank Holiday weekend Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 May and for the Flying Legends Air Show on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 July are now on sale. Tickets for The American Air Show and the Flying Legends Air Show must be booked in advance. There will be no on the day tickets available. To commemorate the reopening of the newly transformed American Air Museum, which opens this month, The American Air Show at IWM Duxford tells the story of American and British collaboration in war. The Flying Legends Air Show is famous for its presentations of historic piston-engined aircraft in rare combinations and remarkable flying displays. To book tickets visit iwm.org.uk

ADVENTURE GOLF COMES TO UFFORD PARK Ufford Park Hotel has submitted a planning application, in partnership with adventure golf experts Moore Adventure, for a new, Florida-style, adventure golf course to be built within Ufford Park’s 120 acres of historic parkland near Woodbridge, Suffolk. If the application is successful, the course will be open in advance of the school summer holidays 2016, and it is to be named Congo Rapids Lost World. Moore Adventure already operates a successful adventure golf course in Norwich, Norfolk called Congo Rapids but this is the first of its kind planned within Suffolk. Adventure golf is different from mini golf or crazy golf as it offers more physical interaction at some of the course holes, and it also offers a more dramatic setting for the players to enjoy. The decision from Suffolk Coastal District Council’s planning department is expected within the next two months, and if approved construction will get underway in Spring 2016.

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Behind the scenes Tours Tattersalls Tour £80 Per Person

Monday 11 April Friday 29 April

Country Mile Tours £80 Per Person

Saturday 05 March Saturday 19 March

Short Head Tours £49 Per Person

Saturday 12 March National Stud

Friday 25 March

National Horseracing Museum

Discover Newmarket Feature Tour T/C @ Packhorse / Gallops Yard / Jockey Club Rooms Lunch @ Packhorse

Saturday 14 May Saturday 10 December

Race Day Tours With Hospitality

The Bloodstock Tour Wit h Shadwell

£125

Friday 11Th March

(With And Without Hospitality)

£200

£11 Per Person

Children Under 5 Free Contact us for more information

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ur To

11.15a m

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Na

Without Hospitality

£120 Per Person

National Stud Tours

7

D

2.00 pm

ay

Unique tours for groups and individuals… visit www.discovernewmarket.co.uk call 0344 748 9200

s a We e k

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BOO K NO W


James Bay announces Forest Live gigs James Bay has announced dates as part of Forest Live, the summer concert series promoted by the Forestry Commission. He is scheduled to perform Friday 1 July at Thetford Forest, Suffolk. His acclaimed debut album ‘Chaos And The Calm’ continues to ride high in the charts having been one of the best-selling UK albums of last year. Forest Live is an independent programme organised by the Forestry Commission to bring forests to new audiences. Income generated from ticket sales is spent on protecting, improving and expanding England’s forests and woodlands and increasing their value to people and wildlife. Tickets priced £34.50 are now on sale. www.forestry.gov.uk/music

Dates announced for The 3foot People Festival The largest outdoor festival exclusively for pre-school children, The 3foot People Festival, will be staged at Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex between the 28-30 June. The festival will be full of activities and performances to enthuse both children and adults alike, including arts and craft-making sessions, an enormous sandpit, a mini farm, storytelling and much more. The beautiful village of tents, tepees and domes will host an array of playful activities to inspire and entertain. Last year tickets sold out within 48 hours. The general release of tickets will be on sale from 20 April; tickets will be priced £11 (adults aged 16 and over and children 2 - 5 years of age), and £5.50 for under 2s (please note this includes babies in arms). To find out more about The 3foot People Festival, visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/3foot

The BedPop Science Lab On Saturday 12 March, the BedPop Science Lab will take over Bedford Central Library and the Higgins, bringing dozens of free STEM workshops, activities, demonstrations and challenges to the heart of Bedford as part of British Science Week. The BedPop Science Lab takes place during Access Week. www.britishscienceweek.org

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Retired Greyhound Trust

All g Do Breeds Welcome

Greyhound Extravaganza Greyhound Show & All Breeds Fun Dog Show

Sunday 29th May 2016 Held at the Animal Health Trust Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU

Registration from 9:00 am - Judging from 10:30 am For info contact the show organisers on 0845 602 2658 or 07787 701695

Charity Numbers 269668 & SC044047

Presents

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

facebook.com/rgtrust | twitter.com/rgt_uk

Shuttleworth is home to the Colle ction of historic aircraft, vinta ge vehicles and motorcycles, and a 19th-Century Swiss Gard en

Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP l enquiries@shuttleworth.org l 01767 627927

Events are happening at Shuttleworth this spring! Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at The House on Sunday 6 March, Disabled Access Day on Saturday 12 March, A photography Dawn Shoot at The Collection on Saturday 19 March, and a ‘Design your Garden’ Workshop in the Swiss Garden on Saturday 9 April.

www.shuttleworth.org/events East Life March 2016 HP.indd 1

Reg Charity No. 307534

08/02/2016 14:37:32


Rose Lodge Care Home, Market Deeping Family means a lot to all of us and we understand the importance of selecting the right care home. To find out more about Rose Lodge or arrange a visit, please call 01778 344454, email info@countrycourtcare. com, or visit our website on www.countrycourtcare.com.

“

“

Our philosophy is simple; Our residents and their families are at the heart of everything we do!


£ 111 C OP P E R BA NG LE

£ 165 SI LVE R BANGLE

R - BRACETrollbeads Cambridge and Trollbeads Norwich now open! LET PLU

Celebrate Mother’s Day Sunday 6 March TROLLBEADS CAMBRIDGE, 21 MARKET ST, CAMBRIDGE, CB2 3PA TROLLBEADS NORWICH, 9 SWAN LANE, NORWICH, NR2 1HZ CAMBRIDGE: 01223 321114 NORWICH: 01603 766977 ENTER THE MAGICAL WORLD OF TROLLBEADS


LIFESTYLE

MOTHER’S DAY WISH LIST

Written by Phoebe Waller

Over 43.5 million mums celebrate Mother’s Day each year, the origin of the day is actually part of the Easter calendar with people being given a day off to visit their ‘mother church’. This has grown to become the one day of the year when we get to thank the person who taught us most of what we hold dear, from wise sayings and which partners to avoid to how to thread a sewing machine or make home brew.

So if you’re a mother yourself looking for a ‘helpful suggestion’ or two to steer your nearest and dearest in the right direction, or if you’re looking to create a moment of sheer bliss for your own mother or grandmother, we’ve compiled some of the best ways to create memorable mother’s day moments...

FAMILY DAYS OUT Whilst thoughtful gestures are always appreciated, sometimes a great day out for mums with younger children can be as relaxing as trying to sort a babysitter or get five minutes peace at home. One of the UK’s top attractions, BeWILDerwood, has acres of open spaces packed with all kinds of adventures and activities and for Mother’s Day. Children age two and over can make a special ‘Twiggle Charm’ to take home, along with a beautiful handmade card. Visit www.bewilderwood.com or call 01692 633033 for further information.

PAMPER SESSSION If you want to thank your mum for the thousands of washing loads they did on your behalf or for wiping away the tears of teenage heartbreak, why not treat her to a blow dry from Cambridge salon Rush (www.rush.co.uk). This salon has over 20 years’ experience and plenty of room to accommodate mothers and daughters looking for a joint appointment.

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02 Feb East Life Wedding Open Day QP 2016_107mm h x 71mm w 08/02/2016 10:39 Page 1

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Wedding Open Day Ufford Park Woodbridge

A modern, boutique day spa.

AA Modern, Dayspa. Spa modern, Boutique boutique day

Sunday 13th March 11:00am - 3:00pm This is a non-exhibitor event

Get pampered this Christmas

SUMMER PREP PACKAGE at BATHSHEBA SPA, WOODBRIDGE A modern, boutique day spa. An oasis of calm, self spoiling and femininity in a warm, welcoming environment.

(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 • Perfect Bikini Line (Hot Wax) • Pretty New feet (Callus Peel) 24 388813 CH U RCH www.bathshebaspa.co.uk S T, WOODBRIDGE 01394 24 CHURCH ST, WOODBRIDGE • Half Leg 01394 & Underarm Wax • XEN TAN (Manual) 388813 www.bathshebaspa.co.uk 01394Facial 388813 www.bathshebaspa.co.uk • REN Express

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01394 388813 www.bathsheba.co.uk or email spa.bathsheba@gmail.com Monday-Saturday 9.30am - 6.30pm Thursday (late night) until 8.30pm

EntEr a world of total rElaxation and innEr calm Aromatherapy, Hot Stone Therapy, Facials, Non Surgical Face Lift, Manicures, Pedicures, Wedding Make up Waxing, Ear Piercing, Lymphatic Drainage.

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LIfe Coaching For those seeking a really thoughtful alternative for a mum who is in need of a refresh or change of direction, the gift of a better work life balance, more courage or improved clarity can be sought with a session of life coaching. Sandra Swan Coaching (www.sandraswancoaching.com), based in Luton, has over 10 years of experience in helping people to achieve positive fulfilment.

Mother Nature If you have a nature-loving mother who is at her happiest on one of the UK’s beautiful waterways, a Thames Barge Cruise with Topsail Charters (www.top-sail.co.uk) comprises a one-hour sailing trip to tidal town Maldon, located at the top of the Blackwater River which is ideal for wildlife and bird watchers.

Tea for Two Two of the East’s top destinations for afternoon tea, which have been unearthed for your delight by Etta Cohen OBE on her site www.sconesjamandcream.com (thank you Etta), are the Angel Hotel in Suffolk (www.theangel.co.uk) and Harriet’s in Cambridge (harrietscafetearooms.co.uk). All you have to decide is jam then cream or cream then jam. Three different choices await at Tewin Bury Farm Hotel, enjoy a Grand Buffet in their Meadow Barn

with a magician and live soul singers, afternoon tea in the Tythe Barn or a traditional three course Sunday roast at this rustic destination in Welwyn. Visit www.tewinbury.co.uk for more information.

Petrol heads Petrol head mums can combine their love of engines with a pampering session, live entertainment and stall at the Museum of Power in Langford. Pre-booking is required but there’s plenty on to keep the whole family content and mum’s stress levels down. www.museumofpower.org.uk

historic homes Three of mums’ best-loved favourites have to be cute dogs, being charitable and flowers and the week after Mother’s Day is the Dogs and Daffs Charity Dog Walk & Fun Dog Show at Hatfield House. The event aims to raise much-needed funds for the Digswell Place Group Riding for Disabled Association www.hatfield-house.co.uk Tastes of Anglia play host to a food-lover’s paradise at Feast East in the breath-taking grounds of the Jacobean great Audley End House, Saffron Walden (www.tastesofanglia.org.uk). Nestled deep in the heart of the Essex countryside, celebrity chefs including Jean-Christophe Novelli and Sophie Grigson will be showcasing their culinary flair with plenty of top tips, outstanding food and drink and activities to discover.

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28 March – 10 April

2016

at s y a d i l o H r e t Eas

leisure world

, dance, and much more! Swimming, arts, crafts

p Base Camom

A step up fr r Kids Camp fo in young people 1 1 to 7 s year

Join in the

Fun! Kids Camp

A full day of action packed supervised activities for children in school years 1 to 6

Flumes, rapids, waves and more in the leisure pool!

colchesterleisureworld.co.uk


SAY HELLO TO...

the new afternoon tea at The Swan Lavenham Reviewed by Amanda French

Lavenham, a beautiful medieval town in the heart of Suffolk, is the home of The Swan Hotel & Spa (www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk). We were lucky enough to visit for a night and experience the best of the hotel with its black and white exterior, oak-beamed interiors, open fires and cosy nooks. Staying in one of the beautiful suites we had a massive room, beautifully decorated with a large seating area. With Temple Spa products in the bathroom and beautifully soft white linens on the bed, every little aspect of your stay is well thought out. A new addition to the restaurant offerings at The Swan is a selection of afternoon tea options. Served in the beautiful Gallery restaurant, diners can choose from a sumptuous selection of savoury afternoon tea, sweet afternoon tea or high tea. We opted for the savoury afternoon tea and the sweet afternoon tea, so we could have a little taste of everything. Starting with finger sandwiches with an array of fillings, light and tasty, we were then presented with a three-tier cake stand each packed with delicious delights including scones, tarts and cakes. We were presented with a huge choice of teas to choose from, all of which were very tempting. Afternoon tea is always a real treat but I’ve never experienced a savoury afternoon tea before and we really enjoyed the variety which included a Parma Ham & Cheese scone and a Tomato & Parmesan Scone served with a delicious basil butter. Savouries included a smoked coronation chicken tart with yoghurt, peppered mackerel with horseradish and potato salad and smoked salmon with crab blinis and caviar. If you have some spare time during your stay pop into the newly opened Weavers’ House Spa which has over thirty different treatments to choose from, including spa packages, perfect for a romantic getaway or a day visit. The Swan is a fantastic place to getaway for a relaxing weekend, a day out at The Spa with afternoon tea or an evening meal. We will definitely be back. Afternoon tea at The Swan is served from Monday to Saturday from 12 noon – 5pm and is £19.50 per person or £26.50 for high tea.

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This Easter why not hop in and choose from our luxury Chocolate Bunnies, Chicks and Easter Eggs Or why not give your favourite chocolate lover the gift of a place on our chocolate making course: gift vouchers available. Visit our shop in St Andrews Street or buy online from our website.

Click and Collect and Same Day Delivery available. .... and don’t forget our award winning Hot Chocolate, the chocolate lovers essential treat. 21 St Andrew’s Street, Cambridge, CB2 3AX. Tel 01223 778982 wwww.chocolatchocolat.co.uk


TOP

5

of the Chocs

With Easter only weeks away, Liz Mattock has the top five chocolate shops wrapped up

The Chocolate Deli, Little Walsingham, NOrfolk

The shop offers a vast selection of sweet specialities, from milk, dark and white chocolate with infusions from salted caramel to more exotic chilli. Easter eggs are available to order. Chocoholics can book onto a chocolate workshop, and the deli’s online shop means you can order all year round. www.thechocolatedeli.co.uk

Cocoa Mama, Eye, Suffolk Cocoa Mama makes fresh chocolate, entirely by hand. Chocolatier Helen Fraser works tirelessly developing fresh truffles and pralines with flavours inspired by local Suffolk produce such as honey, raspberry, apple, lavender, dark ale, cider and chilli. www.cocoamama.co.uk

Digby’s Fine Chocolates, NORFOLK Now, some 20 years on Digby owns three shops in Norwich, Cromer and Aylsham. These include tantalising delights from upmarket Belgian and English chocolates and superb liquorice treats from Finland and Holland. All gifts, including Easter gifts, are carefully packaged in their own imaginative and special way. www.digbyschocolates.com

Rumsey’s Chocolate, Wendover, bucks Master chocolatier Nigel Rumsey has been creating his exquisite range of award winning hand-made chocolates since 1991. Choose from the wonderful selection of truffles, ganache, pralines, creams and petit fours; each with its own distinctive flavour. www.rumseys.co.uk

Chocolat Chocolat, Cambridge, cambs Voted Cambridge’s favourite chocolate shop, the store is packed with delicious treats from bars and buttons to gifts and specialities. Chocoholics will love its famous handmade sheet chocolate. Chocolate tasting and making courses are available from £20. www.chocolatchocolat.co.uk

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Great days out in Norfolk Experience a day out with a difference at the historic sites of Castle Acre Priory, Grime’s Graves and Great Yarmouth Row Houses.

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


Guide Norfolk Broads

Your

To The

Planning a trip to the Broads this summer? Pete Waters of Visit Norfolk tells us how to make the most of ‘Britain’s Magical Waterland’.

Norfolk is possibly most famous for the man-made Broads, over 125 miles of navigable lock-free waterways set in beautiful countryside and with many charming and picturesque towns and villages. The big skies and sparkling landscape of marshland fields, feathery reeds and tangled woodlands are a perfect canvas for adventure and relaxation - time to reflect, space to explore and a magical opportunity to enjoy a fabulous break. Now a National Park, the only one with a city in it, the Broads offers visitors an experience unlike any other, both on its rivers and lakes, and alongside them, on peaceful paths and cycle ways. Walking, cycling and by water are all great ways to get around the Broads, and it won’t be long before you’re on your own feeling that you have the entire area to yourselves! If you stay in your car, you’ll only see a fraction of what the Broads has to offer. The UK’s largest nationally protected wetland, the Broads are a fragile wetland of international importance, with rare wildlife such as the huge swallowtail butterfly, the booming bittern, frolicking otters and beautiful white water lilies. The birdlife here is amongst the best in the country.

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THINGS TO DO

Places to visit

Visit in May and you can take part in the Broads Outdoors Festival where there’s a range of activities, walks and sightseeing between 7-22 May. Considered by many to be the capital of The Broads, Wroxham is a lively town and very popular with visitors. During the summer months it is bustling with activity with many heading for Roys – ‘the largest village store in the world’.

The delightful village of Woodbastwick is well worth a visit, even if just for a short period to soak up the peace and tranquillity away from the busier towns. Having twice won the Best Kept Village Award, it is a beautiful place with a stunning medieval flint church finished with Norfolk thatching. The Woodforde’s brewery tap The Fur & Feather is a great place for lunch or supper – try the huge Yorkies! If it’s a nice day, sit outside by the duck pond.

Wroxham is the perfect place for boat hire, whether just for an hour or the whole day. From the river, you can see so much more and a leisurely cruise downstream will reveal picture postcard thatched cottages and lodges lining the banks. Nearby, if you’re feeling energetic is BeWILDerwood, a huge award-winning forest of family fun and outdoor adventure, with treehouses, zip wires, jungle bridges, boat trips…and Crocklebogs, Twiggles and Boggles! Broadland Bike Hire is at BeWILDerwood too. Wroxham is also a terminus for the Bure Valley Railway, an 18-mile round trip on a steam locomotive to Aylsham, passing through beautiful Norfolk countryside, with stop-offs at Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall.

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The town of Potter Heigham is another favourite with visitors and is an excellent place for boat hire. A treat is to watch sailors attempt to travel under a tiny medieval bridge, renowned for being the most difficult to navigate in the area. The village of Ranworth is an excellent place to visit, where those feeling energetic can climb the winding, spiral stone staircase of the magnificent St Helen’s Church, known as the ‘Cathedral of the Broads’. Once at the top your efforts will be rewarded with spectacular views over this special landscape. The church has one of the finest examples of a medieval rood screen in the country and an exquisite 15th century illuminated songbook.


River trips and self drive boats on the Norfolk Broads

Discover the magic... What better way to discover the diversity of this enchanting landscape than to relax on one of our river trips, with entertaining live commentary, light refreshments and a licensed bar. Trips available from Easter - 31st October Or if you would rather be at the helm yourself, then pack a picnic, hire a boat by the hour or day and allow the Broads to reveal its wonders at your own pace.

To experience the special magic of the Broads, call us on 01603 782207 or visit our website for more information www.broadstours.co.uk

Amazona Zoo Logo paws

it’sss Braziliant!

Explore the Amazona in Cromer

Coming in 2016 Leaf Cutter Ant exhibition

Amazona Zoo Rainforest Springs logo

Try the Jumping Pillows!

South American Animal Adventure

amazonazoo.co.uk South American Animal Adventure

Hall Road, Cromer NR27 9JG Tel. 01263 510741 Facebook.com/AmazonaZoo

@AmazonaZoo

amazonazoo.co.uk


There are many beautiful towns and villages to be discovered throughout the Norfolk Broads including Stalham, a small market town where you can visit the Museum of the Broads and marvel at Hunsett Mill. The picturesque village of Horning is situated on the bank of the River Bure. Stop off at Coltishall to sample some local ales and food at a riverside pub, and explore the village with its old buildings and church. Acle has some very charming 17th and 18th century buildings and a church which is more than 900 years old while Reedham has a beautiful riverside and many pubs where you can enjoy some excellent home-cooked food. The only remaining car and passenger ferry in the Broads operates in Reedham, taking people across the River Yare. Aylsham is a traditional market town in the north of the Broads. A twice-weekly market is still held here and there is a weekly auction of fine art, books and antique furniture where you can seek out treasures and bargains. Just outside Aylsham is the National Trust run Blickling Hall & Gardens, one of the country’s finest Jacobean houses, with an evocative ‘Downton Abbey’ period interior. The Bucks Arms, a pub in the grounds, is great for lunch (and it has rooms too). If you’re lucky (depending on your view) you might also see the headless ghost of Anne Boleyn – Blickling was the Boleyn’s family home. Walking around Reepham is like stepping back in time. With its pretty market place, bordered by 18th century houses, this charming town has been the setting for a number of period TV productions, including Poirot. There’s good all-day dining at The Dial House, and it has rooms too. For more ideas or to plan your trip visit www.visitnorfolk.co.uk

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Seacroft

Grown Ups Holiday Village Only Holidays Seacroft Grown Ups Only Holiday Village is located just 7 miles North of Great Yarmouth in the traditional seaside resort of Hemsby. Half or full board, 3 and 4 night breaks with great entertainment nightly.

STAR ACTS AT SEACROFT · New Orleans Jazz Festival ·

· Sounds of the Sixties ·

A festival of new Orleans Jazz with the New Orleans Heat

Sounds of the sixties with Evergreen and Ivy League

11th March 2016 · Prices from £189* · 3 Nights

14th March 2016 · Prices from £134* · 4 Nights

· Back to Bacharach ·

· Hit Makers of the 60’s·

A fantastic tribute break with Back to Bacharach - Feel the Love!

Hit Makers of the 60’s with Dave Berry, Chris Farlow & Vanity Fare

1st April 2016 · Prices from £149* · 3 Nights

4th April 2016 · Prices from £159* · 4 Nights

· Rockin’ Back to the 50’s ·

· Disco the Night Away ·

Rockin’ Back to the 50’s with Buddy Holly Winter Dance Party 16th May 2016 · Prices from £159* · 4 Nights

Disco the night away on this 70’s break with Bee Gee tribute Staying Alive 20th May 2016 · Prices from £119* · 3 Nights

01493 809 965 • www.RichardsonsHolidayVillages.co.uk *All prices shown half board per person per break. Single occupancy supplement may apply. Future bookings only. Subject to availability and terms and conditions. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Acts may vary. Star Act performing one night only across the break. Date shows is the start day of the break.


SuSSex BArn BURNHAM MARKET • NORFOLK

Sussex Barn is an eighteenth century brick and flint barn situated on Sussex Farm, just outside the attractive village of Burnham Market. It has been carefully restored to make an ideal location for truly individual Wedding Receptions, Civil Weddings, Dances, Parties, Conferences and Exhibitions The barn is a fully licensed venue and still retains much of its old character – including a 120ft deep well in the bar area.

Thompson Brancaster Farms Holiday Cottages are the ideal base from which to explore all that North West Norfolk has to offer. Alternatively you can just wind down on the beach or by the barbecue in summer or relax by the fireside in your cottage in the winter. Scenic North West Norfolk offers beautiful unspoilt countryside, long sandy beaches, famous nature reserves, big wide skies and above all, a real chance to get away from it all and relax.

Contact: Jane Thompson

01485 210000

For more information on all our cottages please contact Jane Thompson on

e-mail: info@sussexbarn.co.uk

www.sussexbarn.co.uk

01485 210000 or e-mail: info@tbfholidayhomes.co.uk or visit us at

www.tbfholidayhomes.co.uk

There’s nowhere quite like Waveney River Centre

waveney

Enjoy our delicious locally sourced, home cooked food at The Waveney Inn, as you admire the amazing views across the marshes & river

river centre

Make a night or a weekend of it in our luxury hotel rooms - or why not try out glamping in an Escape Pod? And for that special break, you can soak up the views in a lodge with a hot tub!

Open

Discover the Broads best kept secret

All Year

Enjoy a day out on the river aboard a luxury day cruiser - or try a few hours in a canoe followed by a dip in our indoor heated pool! Burgh St Peter, near Beccles NR34 0BT Please follow brown signs from Haddiscoe (A143) Day Cruiser Hire

The Waveney Inn

Glamping

Local Food

Come for a day or stay

& Adnams Ales Boutique Hotel

Lodges with hot tubs

Call us on 01502 677 343 or visit www.waveneyrivercentre.co.uk


Offering a unique setting on the edge of the stunning Ormesby Broad

orrmesb by bro oad

www.theboathouseormesbybroad.co.uk

Quite simply one of the most idyllic and romantic venues you will ever discover for your wedding celebration.

Tel: 01493 730342

Boathouse East Life Ad.indd 1

18/08/2014 10:33

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

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

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


HUNTER’S YARD

Sailing on the Norfolk Broads 2 hour skippered sails

Only £68 for up to 4 people

Cabin Yacht Hire RYA Sailing Tuition

Pacific Cruisers Boating Holidays

Levels 1, 2, 3 & Seamanship courses

Half-Decker (day boat) Hire Learn to Sail Holidays

Tel: 01692 678263 www.huntersyard.co.uk Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QG

The Norfolk Heritage Fleet Trust – Charity No: 1052303

• Independent Hire Cruisers • Competitive prices & personal service • 10 proudly maintained cruisers from 2 berth up to 9 berth • 1 day cruiser seats up to 7 people • pets welcome

Visit www.pacificcruisers.co.uk to view our boats Tel: 01508 520321

THE NELSON HEAD

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

Open all day - every day from 11am (12 on Sundays) till late Food all day - all summer Traditional country pub with a warm welcome and large open fire when it's cold, huge beer garden for when it's warm. Walks extending around the broads and down to the sea. The best access to see the seal colony. Good fresh local food cooked to order, all day, till the end of the summer.

Child & Dog Friendly

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

TeaO Room DRiverside ID Y U & Stores KNOW? The Green, Stokesby Norfolk NR29 3EX Tel: 01493 750470 Open from March to November Open dailytofrom from 7am 7pm7am every day

You can get Eastlife Magazine one whole We are a friendly family run business w e k village e aonr lthe y River ! Bure located behind the pub. in ae tranquil

We serve traditional English, Vegetarian and Children’s breakfast, lunches and early evening meals using products sourced locally where possible. Homemade pasties, cakes and scones for our delicious cream teas. A member of the Broads Bike Hire Centre. Children & dogs most welcome. A take-away service is available. available until 6.45pm.


LITTLE EAST

FUN on the FARM

Already thinking up ways of how you can keep the kids amused this Easter break? Look no further than our handpicked guide of farm parks and attractions... Compiled by Liz Mattock

Norfolk

Essex Old MacDonalds Farm Weald Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 5AY Tel: 01277 375 177 www.omdfarm.co.uk Old MacDonalds Farm is renowned for being one of the most popular farms in Essex for a family day out. With its host of animals, colourful adventure play areas and spring babies bouncing round the paddock, Easter is the perfect time to visit. During the school holidays children will be able to take part in the Easter Egg Hunt and win a tasty treat at the petting farm.

Snettisham Park Bircham Road, Snettisham, Norfolk, PE31 7NG Tel: 01485 542425 www.snettishampark.co.uk The park is a 329 acre working farm. A trip can involve many exciting adventures from seeing lambs being born to a spectacular 45-minute deer safari where you will see the magnificent red deer herd. You can bottle feed lambs, collect fresh farm eggs and ride ponies as well as taking a walk on one of three wonderful trails. The farm has a shop selling its own produce. Open 10am-4pm, seven days a week. Pettitts Animal Adventure Church Road, Reedham, Norfolk, NR13 3UA Tel: 01493 700094 www.pettittsadventurepark.co.uk Pettitts is open from March 2016 and offers youngsters rides galore, family entertainment, exotic and domestic animals and birds to see as well as animals to feed and pet. The park is accessible for wheelchair users and there is a large picnic area and onsite cafĂŠ serving hot and cold drinks and snacks.

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A Room with a View 5-Star Self-catering Accommodation Award-winning Bed & Breakfast Pet-friendly & Accessible Accommodation

EGGPLOSIVE EASTER HOLIDAYS! FAMILY FUN!

25 MARCH to 10 APRIL Professor Nitrate in the Mad Lab Easter Egg Hunt, Craft making & Pyrotechnic displays

Discover the ever-changing Norfolk countryside

Telephone (01508) 520520 sisland-tithe-barn@hotmail.co.uk www.sisland-tithe-barn.co.uk EOR2199-ADV0009-East-Life-Ad-002.pdf

1

See website for days and times of activities

03/02/2016

13:51

The Epping Ongar Railway is a fantastic, great value and accessible day out for the family. We are extremely easy to get to - our heritage buses pick you up from right outside Epping Underground and Shenfield stations. We are open every weekend, Bank Holiday and Wednesdays in the school holidays from Easter to October.

www.eorailway.co.uk Epping Ongar Railway

@eorailway

Horning, Norwich, NR12 8YB 01692 631485 www.radarmuseum.co.uk facebook.com/radarmuseum @RAFRadarMuseum


A DIVISION OF:

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

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

SAV E £ 5 On any Animal Encounter. Simply quote code ‘ELIFE0516’ when placing your booking.

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

Hands On. .

Meeting the meerkats Follow us on:

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

Adoption information evenings: First Wednesday of every month At our Milton Keynes and Peterborough offices - see website for details

Adoption Connections

Many children are currently in care and need a new family… could you be that family?

St. Francis’ Children’s Society is a voluntary adoption agency, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. We welcome all kinds of adopters for all kinds of children, regardless of age, race, cultural background, religion, marital status or sexual orientation.

www.sfcs.org.uk enquiries@sfcs.org.uk

Connecting the Adoption Circle Registered Charity No. 211670

Milton Keynes: Peterborough:

01908 572700 01733 475581


Suffolk Suffolk Punch Trust Sink Farm, St Davids Lane, Hollesley, Woodbridge, IP12 3JR

 Tel: 01394 411327 www.suffolkpunchtrust.org From stables and farm yard animals to heritage exhibitions and walking trails, The Suffolk Punch Trust has plenty to see and do. In addition to the horses, farm animals include pigs, cattle, sheep and chickens. There’s also the opportunity to meet the resident rabbits and guinea pigs at the Pets Paddocks. Those looking to make the most of the spring weather can explore the great outdoors with one of three walking trails which extend from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Easton Farm Park Easton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 0EQ Tel: 01728 746475 www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk Easton Farm Park was built in the late 1800s and has been a Farm Park since 1974, the second farm park to be opened in the UK. It offers a mix of interactive farm fun within a set of listed historic buildings and countryside. Easton Farm Park is the ideal place for family visits, birthday parties, school trips and farm holidays. Open 10.30am – 5.30pm, seven days a week.

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Cambridgeshire Wimpole Home Farm Arrington, Royston, SG8 0BW Tel: 01223 206000 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpole-estate Hidden amongst the trees, the Adventure Playground at Wimpole Home Farm is a popular spot with those who love to climb, slide, scramble and swing, while tiny tots enjoy their own play area and mini pedal tractors. Children’s guide and quiz trail are available to help keep their interest while away from the play area. Rare breeds animals are happy to have visitors, be fed and petted.

NFU Lambing Day at Manor Farm Sunday 13 March Morborne, PE3 7TG Tel: 01733 828916 Not quite Easter but one not to be missed, visit one of the biggest lambing days in the East of England on 13 March from 11am – 4pm. It is a great family day out to see a working farm where you can see lambs being born, hold newborn chicks, ride on a horse and cart and climb on the tractors and much more. The Anna’s Hope Fairies will be there too and proceeds will go to charity. Adults £5 and children under 16 free. Anna’s Hope is the leading children’s brain tumour charity in the East of England. www.annas-hope.co.uk

Hamerton Zoo Park Nr Sawtry, PE28 5RE Tel: 01832 293362 www.hamertonzoopark.com At Hamerton Zoo Park as well as a wonderful collection of animals, there are a range of things to keep you busy. The express train service runs from the donkey stables down to the new tiger enclosures. Provided the weather is dry, the train will be in service during weekends and everyday throughout the school holidays from Easter until the October half-term. Train rides cost £2 per person. There are two play areas, one for babies and toddlers and the other for older children and new covered picnic areas and gardens.

Bedfordshire Mead Open Farm Stanbridge Road, Billington, Near Leighton Buzzard, LU7 9JH Tel: 01525 852 954 www.meadopenfrm.co.uk The farm spans 30 acres and is home to farmyard animals large and small. It is also home to some more unusual large animals such as alpacas and a reindeer. There are loads of fun things to do from Go-Karts and Crazy Golf to sand play as well as swings, slides and climbing frames in the huge indoor and outdoor adventure playground. The farm offers children the opportunity to see, learn about and interact with farm animals through activities such as bottle-feeding lambs, hand-feeding sheep and goats, grooming ponies and stroking rabbits and guinea pigs.

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Hinchingbrooke is a remarkable state school, set in acres of beautiful grounds and adjoining a country park. Hinchingbrooke House was formerly the family home of the Cromwells and of the Earls of Sandwich. the school finds inspiration from its heritage and gives both staff and students a very special pride and a sense of identity. Our mission is to inspire excellence and fulfil potential. We aim for all students to be nurtured as uniquely talented individuals, finding fulfilment

through their learning and the development of their intellectual, creative, physical and emotional capabilities. We aim for our students to develop the moral integrity to become more responsible global citizens, so that they may take their place in society with confidence. We are confident that anyone associated with the Hinchingbrooke learning community, student or adult, will leave the richer for their experience.

Brampton Road, Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE29 3BN T: 01480 375700 | F: 01480 420536 E: communications@hinchbk.cambs.sch.uk www.hinchingbrookeschool.net

THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS

Nostalgic Days Out by Steam from Huntingdon LINCOLN THURSDAY 17 MARCH

Approx Times: Depart 1045 – Return 2015 Enjoy a wonderful day out by steam train which offers you the chance to visit the historic city of Lincoln. You will have over three hours to explore Lincoln’s Cathedral Quarter which boasts not only the Cathedral, one of Europe’s finest gothic buildings, but also the Castle, home to a copy of the Magna Carta. For those seeking relaxation, the pretty cobbled streets in the city centre offer something for everyone, from vintage boutiques and art galleries to quaint tea rooms and fudge parlours. PRICES Pullman Style Dining: Premier Dining: First Class: Premium Standard:

£249 £209 £159 £109

Premier Dining and Pullman Style Dining passengers will receive a either a full English breakfast or Brunch on the outward journey and a four or five course meal on the return.

LIMITED SPACES AVAILABLE ON TUESDAY 10 MAY TRIP TO DURHAM & NEWCASTLE WITH FLYING SCOTSMAN

Tel: 01483 209888 416

www.CathedralsExpress.co.uk Terms and Conditions apply


Havas Worldwide Paris - Bertrand Mayerberger - L’un et l’autr

family fun for everyone!


240x168 KNB Easter 16 EASTLIFE_Layout 1 08/02/2016 11:15 Page 1

Garden E

ast

Good Frida er Trail Saturday 2 y 25th & 6th £1 extra pe March r child*

ENTRY FOR Under 3’s

FREE

SAVE

10%

ETS BOOK EVENT TICK NE LI IN ADVANCE ON

WITH SOMETHING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY...

FOLLOW US ON:

SpEcTacUlaR JOUSTiNG Easter Sun 27th & Mon 28th March. Bouts at 12.30 & 2.30 pm*

knebworthhouse.com or T. 01438 812661

Knebworth House Gardens & Park, Knebworth, Hertfordshire SG1 2AX (For Sat Nav) *Payable on the day in addition to Admission. Subject to weather


What do you really want for Mother’s Day? I was wandering around my local shopping precinct today surrounded by garish pink and yellow signs declaring what gifts will ‘Make Mum Smile’ for Mother’s Day. Perfume, make-up, pretty charms for pretty bracelets and a whole array of beautifully packaged things that I really don’t need but that I know (and the marketing bods know) I want. I hold my hands up here, as much as I like to think of myself as fighting the capitalist regime I know that I am a hardcore consumerist. I like things. Shiny things, pretty things, things that I feel guilty for spending money on and yet I covet like a greedy magpie. I know what we are supposed to want on Mother’s Day is breakfast in bed, to not make the lunch and maybe a daffodil from the garden but I’ll save the crumbs on the duvet and take the presents every time. I know, of course, that I’m a few years off being bought anything emblazed with the beautiful word Chanel by my son. At eight years old he shows his adoration through cutesy mugs (he’s obsessed and my cupboards are bursting), cuddly toys, and homemade gifts and cards, probably with a wonky

MUM’s

THE WORD eared rabbit on it. As much as my consumerist heart weeps as I know I’ll have to display some garish stuffed toy or abstract art in amongst my well thought out cottage interior there is another part of me fearful for when I no longer have to. I think it’ll be a sad day when I get gifts driven by the advertising men rather than the way my son chooses to express his love. I’ll treasure my wonky clay heart emblazoned with the beautiful words ‘Best Mummy Ever’ for far longer than the new naked eye palette, and at least the tat nestled amongst the shabby chic decor displays that our house isn’t a show home but a loving home. Possibly with crumbs on the duvet. Read more from Nicola at nicolasheehanauthor.wordpress.com

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02 Feb East Life Easter QP 2016_107mm h x 71mm w 02/02/20

Easter Sunday Lunch

Steam Trains to the Norfolk Broads

Steam Trains to the Norfolk Broads

& Children’s Easter Egg Hunt

Sunday 27th March Celebrate Easter with us this year and enjoy a delicious 2 or 3 course meal in The Park Restaurant. Arrive early and your children can enjoy activities including an Easter egg hunt.* (between 10am and 12 noon)

FRE

Pre-booking is essential

£16.95

for 2 courses

GO R 5’S UNDE

£20.95

for 3 courses

MOTHERS VIP DAY

Special Train and Lunch Package Sunday March 6th Return Steam Train from Wroxham to Aylsham Two-course lunch and coffee at The Whistlestop Adult £23.50 Child £12.50

. .

MUST BE PRE-BOOKED

A gift for each Mother!

* Terms & conditions apply, contact us for more information.

t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW Tel: 01263 733858 w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW www.bvrw.co.uk

E

EASTER EGGSPRESS March 25th - 28th

FREE Easter Egg for every child when accompanied by a fare-paying adult (max. 2 per adult). NO PRE-BOOKING REQUIRED

Trains from Aylsham and Wroxham

A great day out! Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6BW Tel: 01263 733858

www.bvrw.co.uk

Welcome to High Lodge

A Unique Venue Situated in 100 acres of woodland and delightful countryside High Lodge offers a range of leisure activities, for all the family to enjoy, relaxing short breaks and good food in our refurbished cafe.

C arvery

Welcome to The Mid-Norfolk Railway The Dereham – Wymondham Abbey Line

Sunday March 6th 2016

e £9.95 Desserts from £2.95 Mum gets a FREE GIFT 1 Cours

FREE

Private Hot Tubs

Relax in our Luxury Lodges

Have-A-Go Clay Shooting Fantastic Fun

Have a go from just £26.20 per person Call High Lodge to book 01986 784347 Visit the website www.highlodge.co.uk find us just off the A12 near Blythburgh, Suffolk IP17 3QT

Mid-Norfolk Railway

Monthly Archery Club

Open from the end of February to Christmas, join us for: • Easter Bunny Trains • Steam Train Rides (summer only) • Diesel Train Rides • Steam and Diesel Galas • Fish and Chips Specials • Family Fun Days • Jazz and Folk Trains

• On-train Cream Teas and High Teas • Weekend at War • Beer Festival • Halloween Trains • Santa Specials (The Lapland Express)

You can even book Dereham Station and a complete train for your Wedding Reception For full details and to book, telephone 01362 851723 or visit our website at www.mnr.org.uk


. . . .

Who nose what’s going on this Easter?

PETS PADDOCK HERITAGE MUSEUM TRACTOR-TRAILER RIDES HEAVY HORSE TRAINING

. . . .

Free Annua l with ad Pass mission

Join our magnificent Suffolk Punch Horses for a fun family day out this Easter. Visit pets corner, meet our Suffolk lambs, discover our Easter Egg trail, see the horses being trained, watch a ploughing demonstration, and enjoy a tractor-trailer ride.

Just 30 minutes from Ipswich and an hour from Colchester or Bury St Edmunds. The Suffolk Punch Trust, Hollesley, IP12 3JR I 01394 411327 I www.suffolkpunchtrust.org I info@suffolkpunchtrust.org Registered charity: 1100596 Untitled-1 1

16/03/2015 11:04:42


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

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

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

£14

*

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

www.intalink.org.uk |

@intalink


EDUCATION

H ow t o help your c hild overcome p roblems w ith

MATH S

Written by Fleur Sexton

Ask any child about their ‘worst’ subject at school and you will often get the answer, ‘maths’. It doesn’t help that some parents will agree - weirdly it’s still socially acceptable for an adult to be ‘terrible with numbers’. This has got to change - particularly as there are continuing concerns about standards of numeracy in the UK. I’m convinced that removing the ‘fear’ around the subject will go a long way towards developing more positive attitudes towards this vital skill. Placing a sharp focus on confidence and building a positive mental attitude to tackling difficult maths problems is the way to go. By changing a child’s attitude towards maths you can improve the way that they learn. Essentially you build resilience, inspiring self belief and getting them to feel confident that they are capable of tackling even the most difficult-looking maths problems, provided they use the right mindset. Firstly, break down any barriers to learning. Anxiety is often chief among them, with a fear of failure often leading to a defeatist or hostile attitude to maths. This means that often children won’t even attempt a question that they don’t like the look

of, yet there are marks to be had in an exam simply by showing some workings. There are three basic steps to building a resilient young mathematician. They are: To instill the belief that maths is a valuable subject, identifying its value in the wider world and beyond exams

To recognise that struggling with maths is common and that your child is not alone

To grow confidence that everyone can develop skills in maths, by breaking down the problem-solving process.

Working through these steps will help your child to work independently and become a resilient, resourceful and enthusiastic learner. Fleur Sexton is joint managing director at PET-Xi, which runs a free homework club for children and their parents. www.pet-xi.co.uk

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47


NORFOLK COAST LANDSCAPE

PHOTOGRAPHY ONE DAY WORKSHOP www.norfolkinfocus.com Courses cost just ÂŁ65.00 each 23rd April 2016 18th June 2016 10th September 2016 12th November 2016 For further details or book a place, contact tonylumb@hotmail.com

Norfolk in Focus Photography Workshop www.norfolkinfocus.com - +44(0)7970865937

events filler_Layout 1 /norfolkinfocus 21/02/2012 15:05 Page 1

Sugar Design offers sugar craft courses at all levels from beginners to advanced. We specialize in the creation of sugar flowers but hold courses in all aspects of cake decorating, including the basics, cupcakes and royal icing. For a list of current and planned courses have a look at www.sugardesign.co.uk/courses Tel: 01353 776085 Mob: 07932 070706 Email: info@sugardesign.co.uk

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

www.eastlife.co.uk

A SCHOOL DESIGNED FOR

LITTLE PEOPLE

OPEN DAY

Saturday 12th March 2016 10.00am - 12 noon

For further details please visit our website or call 01234 369555 Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School Brickhill Drive, Bedford MK41 7QZ

www.pilgrims-school.info THE HARPUR TRUST PRE PREP


PRIVATE TUITION

Different types of tutoring The traditional route to finding a tutor is word of mouth. Many of the best tutors never need to advertise because they have so many recommendations. Another route is to use a national tutor directory such as thetutorpages.com, where you can contact tutors for free. You’ll need to do due diligence on the tutor – for example, asking for references and a DBS certificate if they have one but this is certainly a cost-effective route. Private tuition agencies are also useful, but make sure you’re getting value for money. For example, does the agency interview its tutors or provide them with training? Another popular option is taking your child to an extra tuition centre. Children are taught in groups and so prices are reasonable, and there are some well-known brands operating in the East of England, such as Explore Learning, Kumon and First Class Learning.

Face-to-Face vs Online

Henry Fagg, Director, at thetutorpages.com, gives us some handy tips for employing a private tutor in the East Are you considering hiring a private tutor for your child? Tutoring is more popular than ever in England, and this is hardly surprising. Not only does it boost grades, but most families report on the confidence it can give youngsters in their learning. The most popular subjects are Maths and English, but parents will employ tutors for many reasons – for example, for their particular specialisms in dyslexia, handwriting or ADHD. But how do you go about finding a tutor?

Finally, you might consider online tuition. This does not mean letting a computer teach your child! Rather, it means connecting with a real tutor over the Internet. This is a great option if you live in a rural area, or if you’d like to avoid travelling. Often all that is required is Skype and what’s called an ‘online whiteboard’. See The Tutor Pages online tuition report for further details.

Safety first Whatever kind of private tuition you go for, make sure that you and your child stay safe. Make sure you check out this excellent safety guidance for parents and carers.

Henry Fagg is the founder of thetutorpages.com, a home tuition advice and information portal which includes a national directory of tutors.

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Open Day 16th March 2016

Inspiring education for International and British pupils ages 3-18. Where learning is exciting, full of surprises and fun. Challenging each girl and boy in a nurturing environment. Contact us to arrange your visit: T: 01223 778290 E: admissions@cischool.co.uk www.cambridgeinternationalschool.co.uk

Nursery

Juniors

Seniors

Sixth Form

8723-CIS EastLife Mar16 107mm x 148mm v6.indd 1

Learning to love life

18/02/2016 18:51

Snapshot Open Mornings Monday 7 March 2016 Friday 22 April 2016 Monday 6 June 2016 Please contact admissions@stjos.co.uk to book your place.

New Sixth Form centre opening September 2016

www.stjos.co.uk The independent day and boarding school for girls and boys aged 3 to 18. Scholarships and Bursaries available up to 100%.


SCHOOL OPEN DAYS NORFOLK The New Eccles Hall School Saturday 7 May, 10.30am – 2pm Saturday 18 June, 10.30am – 2pm Quidenham, Norwich, Norfolk, NR16 2NZ Tel: 01953 887217 www.neweccleshall.com

SUFFOLK St Josephs College Prep and Senior School open mornings: Monday 7 March, Friday 22 April and Monday 6 June Belstead Road, Ipswich, IP2 9DR Tel: 01473 690281 www.stjos.co.uk

ESSEX Oxford House School Thursday 10 March, 6pm – 8.30pm 2-4 Lexden Road, Colchester CO3 3NE Tel: 01206 576686 www.oxfordhouseschool.net Friends School Thursday 10 March, 9.30am Mount Pleasant Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 3EB Tel: 01799 525351 www.friends.org.uk

Felsted School Saturday 7 May 9.30am Felsted Preparatory School, Ages 4-12 11.30am Felsted School, Ages 13-18 Felsted, Dunmow, Essex CM6 3LL Tel: 01371 822600 www.felsted.org

HERTS, BEDS & BUCKS Pilgrims School Saturday 12 March, 10am – 12pm. Brickhill Drive, Bedford, MK41 7QZ Tel: 01234 369555 www.pilgrims-school.info Bedford Girls’ School Wednesday 9 March, 10am - 1pm Thursday 5 May, 10am - 1pm Cardington Road, Bedford MK42 0BX Tel 01234 361900 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

CAMBRIDGESHIRE The Stephen Perse Foundation Saturday 12 March Union Road, Cambridge CB2 1HF Tel: 01223 454700 www.stephenperse.com

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Find out how to make the most of an open day at

51


Patisserie COUSTANCE Dunmow’s Best NEW! Business This uniquely modern artisan patisserie and cafe prides itself on the quality and provenance of its products. Lovingly handmade every day.

Tel: 01371 875910 facebook6filler_Layout 24/01/2012 09:02 Page Market Place, 1Great Dunmow, Essex CM6 1AT1

• Master Butchers. • Locally Sourced Beef, Pork, Lamb, Poultry And Game In Season And Our Own Recipe Sausages Made On The Premises • Traditional, Locally Sourced Meats. 28 Wingfield Street, Bungay, Suffolk, NR35 1EZ Tel/Fax: 01986 895 105

Are you liking us on Facebook or following us on Twitter? Find us here...

east magazine eastlifemag

@eastmagazines @eastmagazines

Water’s Edge Bar & Restaurant, Woods End, Bramerton, Norwich, Norfolk, NR14 7ED

The Woods End pub is where it all began. What were once Victorian tea rooms is now an elegant, modern dining experience. We will greet you and your party on arrival. We will organise your reserved seating. We will ensure that your Water’s Edge experience is second to none! TO MAKE RESERVATIONS CALL US ON

01508 538005

www.watersedgewoodsend.co.uk

31/03/2017


FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINKNews Review: Benedicts 9 St Benedicts St, Norwich NR2 4PE Tel: 01603 926080 www.restaurantbenedicts.com Reviewed By Nicole Ranaweera A trip to Benedicts restaurant has been on my wish list since it opened so when the opportunity to review it came up, I literally jumped at the chance. Richard Bainbridge, winner of the Great British Menu, opened Benedicts, a fine dining restaurant in June 2015 and it was quite simply a perfect delight to experience an evening here. Given the choice of choosing from the menu or opting for the chef’s personal selection, we chose the latter and sat back with anticipation. Presented with a selection of meat, fish and vegetarian options, we were wowed by each dish from canapés through to desert. And we were spoilt with a lot of dishes! The fish and meat dishes were deliciously succulent but I feel I need to make special mention of my appreciation of the vegetarian selection. Quite often I am left underwhelmed when dining out due to less inspired vegetarian options, but this was certainly not the case at Benedicts. Potato mousse with crispy shallot rings, sage roasted celeriac with truffle puree and the famous Nanny Bush’s Trifle were our favourites, but we simply couldn’t fault anything we sampled. The careful attention to texture and colour are as important as taste in Richard’s food and the

combination of these elements results in an incredible culinary experience. With understated, minimalist décor, nothing detracts from the quality of food. Classy, but unpretentious were the first impressions. A place where you could undoubtedly impress with but also a place suited for a more informal dining experience due to its relaxed and friendly atmosphere. With excellent customer service to boot, Benedicts ticked all of my boxes and truly is a welcome addition to the Norwich foodie scene.

Opening times: Tue to Sat 12-2pm, 6-10pm. Set lunch, £16 for two courses, £20 for three; à la carte, £29 for two courses, £36 for three; tasting menu, £52 - all plus drinks and service.

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BEST WESTERN

HEATH COURT HOTEL Mother’s Day 6th March 2016 Three Course Carvery

Followed by Coffee and Chocolate Mints £25 per person Children Under 11 years £12.50 | Children Under 5 years Free Tel: 01638 676 392

Easter Sunday 27th March 2016

Carvery main course from £12.95 per person Children Under 11 years £6.50 | Children Under 5 years Free Tel: 01638 676 321

Sunday Carvery 12 noon – 7pm Moulton Road, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 8DY www.heathcourthotel.com Telephone 01638 66 71 71

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THE

CAMBRIDGEFOODIE

Pho

Hot new places to eat drink

By Gerla de Boer, founder of the Cambridge Food Tour

&

Loosen your belts! Forget about diets and getting trim for the summer. It’s time to check out the new arrivals in Cambridge and beyond. I can assure you, it’s pretty exciting!

Pub grub Not your usual pub grub here, nothing like it! Daniel Clifford and his team from Midsummer House opened Flitch of Bacon in Little Dunmow in December 2015. Not a surprise of course, that they have raving reviews. Will they join the club of the famous stars too?

Indian After a long refurbishment, one of my favourite Indian restaurants in Cambridge has re-opened again. Prana Restaurant in Mill Road serves traditional Indian cuisine, but its modern take on some of the classic dishes are my favourite.

Latin America My Tapas prayers have been heard! I can’t say how pleased I am that Tapas has finally arrived in Cambridge. The Emperor is no longer a pub, but a Latin American restaurant. Delicious food and a huge range of drinks. Must try: the Causa and Ceviche!

The Emperor

Vietnam Pot Au Feu with a Chinese Twist. Or better known as the Vietnamese soup Pho, Vietnamese comfort food. Very popular for breakfast, but eaten all day. Pho in Wheeler Street don’t just serve Pho, but also a good selection of traditional Vietnamese food.

There is more to come! If you like Champagne and Tapas, then Don Pasquale’s new venture on the Quay side is a must visit, due to open in March. More into bikes, good food and craft beer? The Cambridge Brewhouse and the Mill Pond Pub have got it covered. They are going to open a sister pub in the old bike shop of Howes Cycles on Regent Street, called ‘the Old Bicycle Shop’ in homage to the world’s oldest bike shop.

eastlife.co.uk

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Coat: £110 Designed by: Cholpon

Dress: £120 Earings: £15.99 Designed by: Cholpon

Dress: £95 Designed by: Cholpon

My name is Cholpon, and I am a really enthusiastic fashion designer from Milton Keynes. Boutique Cholpon has a phenomenal range of day and evening wear. My passion lies with clothing that makes a woman feel elegant and beautiful. We really want every woman to have an amazing shopping experience with us. At the boutique you can find dresses and jackets that have been uniquely designed. We also offer a "made to order" service so if you have a wedding, prom or a special event, we can create the dress of your dreams with no hassle at all. We also offer a range of exclusive jewellery and sunglasses. Many of which have been hand made and tailored to a unique style. This is nothing like your ordinary high street store.

boutiquecholpon

Boutique Cholpon

+44 7446 865532 | Tickford Arcade, Newport Pagnell

Photography: Anna Abel

BOUTIQUE CHOLPON


FASHIONWEEK

FASHION

NORWICH

Norwich Fashion Week (NFW16), is back from 10 – 17 March. Here’s what’s not to be missed…

Mercedes Benz of Norwich Retailers Show Thursday 10 March, Doors: 7.15pm, Show: 8pm Ticket Price: £15 This event marks the start of the sixth annual NFW16, which was established to celebrate and promote Norwich’s vibrant fashion scene in the city. The Mercedes-Benz of Norwich Retailers Show brings together Norwich’s nationally-recognised retail offering by showcasing current and future trends on the catwalk from local independents and high-street retailers.

The Dipple and Conway Hair Show The Designers Show Tuesday 15 March, Doors: 6.30pm, Show: 7pm Ticket Price: £10 The Designer’s Show, sponsored by Canaries Official and The Hippodrome Great Yarmouth, is a creative, circus themed spectacular designed to promote the very best of Norwich’s designers, tailors, milliners and stylists. Sponsored by Canaries Official and the Hippodrome Great Yarmouth.

Fashion Excess sponsored by Dr. Martens Thursday 17 March, Doors: 8pm, Show: 9pm Ticket Price: £5 The Fashion Excess Show, sponsored by Dr. Martens, is a quirky fashion show designed to inspire those who love mixing up their style. It fuses the latest fashion from Norwich’s independents, local designers and the high street to live music from up and coming local bands. This event is for those aged 18+

Friday 11 March, Doors: 7.15pm, Show: 8pm Ticket Price: £10 This is a brand new, cutting-edge show highlights the wealth of hairdressing talent in the city, and the impact these stylists, colour technicians and barbers have on finishing the overall fashion look with their inspiring hair designs. The stylists involved will demonstrate how the hair and fashion industries work in harmony by each showcasing five models on the catwalk, all to a live DJ set by the highly respected Tropico collective. This event is for those aged 14+

The Vintage Show sponsored by Zaks Sunday 13 March, Doors: 7.15pm, Show: 8pm Ticket Price: £10 Sponsored by Zaks Authentic American Diners, with the city famed for its vintage scene, the show captures the essence of Norwich’s vintage boutiques and styling, with fashion from the 1930s through to the 1980s all featuring on the catwalk. This event is for those aged 14+ For more details or to book tickets visit www.norwichfashion.co.uk

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Cambridgeshire (2, 3, 4, 5)_Cambridgeshire 25/08/2015 16:38 Page 1

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

Classes for children's grades & vocational levels in Classical ballet, modern theatre, contemporary & tap dance Teaching faculty are all fully qualified and DBS checked & include examiners of the Royal Academy of Dance, Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing & Professionals from Theatre & Classical Companies

INDULGE YOURSELF

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

Buy Online www.elouiselingerie.co.uk

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

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

21/10/11 15:58:59

18/05/2012 15:46


CAMBRIDGE STYLEWEEK Discover the best of Cambridge fashion from 15-20 March

Cambridge Style Week returns with five days of trends from established and emerging designers. The stylish event has been created to showcase local businesses, models and upcoming brands. With a jam-packed schedule planned, we list the highlights…

Night of Fashion 18 March, 7.30pm The Guildhall, Market Square, Cambridge, CB2 3QJ VIP tickets: £32, Standard tickets: £16 Enjoy a night of fashion with a lively catwalk showing collections by local boutiques, national brands and emerging designers as well as talks and performances. Brands include Anne Furbank and Triump. VIP Tickets enjoy a special VIP Drinks Reception, VIP access to the pop-up boutique and VIP seats for the catwalk show. Standard tickets will include access to the pop-up boutique and the Catwalk show. Places are limited so book your tickets quick!

Innovation in Fashion

Night of Fashion 19 March, 7.30pm The Guildhall, Market Square, Cambridge, CB2 3QJ VIP tickets: £32, Standard tickets: £16 Saturday finishes with another spectacular catwalk show featuring brands and boutiques such as Alexander Huck, KFD Jewellery, Modish and Triumph. There will be a special office work wear selection sponsored by Howes Percival. Audience members will also be able to enter a competition in conjunction with Kuoni Travel.

19 March, 2pm The Guildhall, Market Square, CB2 3QE Exploring new materials from science and how they can be applied to fashion, Cambridge Science Festival and Cambridge Style Week present a panel discussion led by experts from Fashion, Business and scientists from Cambridge University. Ask questions and discuss your ideas, this event is a must attend for scientists and designers alike. The workshop is free.

For more details and events visit www.cambridgestyleweek.com

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GURU THE WEDDING

Décor Trends – What styles will we be seeing at summer weddings? Last year I shared my top trend predictions for 2015 including organic and wild garden flowers, embellished and textural linens, watercolour and festoon lighting. The good news is that this year promises to be just as inspirational! So here it is, my guide to the summer wedding décor trends to look out for and be inspired by in 2016…

CROCKERY & ENHANCED CUTLERY Whether you’re planning a relaxed countryside wedding or a classically elegant affair, crockery and cutlery will be big news in 2016. That’s because there are now an ever growing number of suppliers in the UK who offer inspirational crockery and glassware to enhance your overall wedding design. From contemporary and luxurious crockery and glassware to vintage finds, with my personal and relatively local favourite suppliers being Hélène Millot and Duchess & Butler.

MONOGRAMS Monograms are an ever increasingly popular way to add that personal touch to your wedding. This year, this décor trend will be seen on everything from bespoke stationery and personalised stamps to lightboxes and monogramed dancefloors. Head on over to Pinterest where a simple search will show you hundreds of different ways to incorporate this key décor trend.

60 Download Our App Today!

Written by Katrina Otter

WEDDING CHAIRS Gone are the days of being restricted to using the chairs provided by your wedding venue or marquee company. In 2016 there are now an endless array of different types and styles of wedding chairs available to choose from which is great news for anyone looking for a simple and relatively inexpensive way to change or enhance the style of their wedding. In 2016 look out for spruced up chiavari chairs, beautiful and contemporary ghost chairs and the mismatched rustic effect.

SPRING GREENS AND OVERSIZED BLOOMS For the past couple of years the wild, ‘just-pickedfrom-the-garden’ look for floral arrangements and bridal bouquets has been a big trend. In 2016 this dominant trend is sticking around but going oversized and dramatic – think luscious white blooms and an abundance of overflowing spring greens.

STYLED BACKDROPS Taking inspiration from celebrity weddings, shop windows, visual merchandise and of course Pinterest we’re seeing a growing trend for creative backdrops, especially for ceremonies. Some ideas of how to incorporate this trend include paper flower walls, ceremonial arches, DIY garlands, custom signage and murals.


WEDDINGS HANGING & SUSPENDED DÉCOR Hanging and suspended décor is one of the most visually impactful ways to create that extra magical WOW factor. Key to this is lighting and in 2016 expect to notice lighting! Think dramatic, statement and stand-out installations including ornate chandeliers, canopies of twinkling lights, hanging filament bulbs, coloured uplighters and designer shades. Other suspended décor trends in 2016 include floral or foliage chandeliers, cascading garlands and geometrics.

Image credits: Left: Hannah Duffy Photography Above & Top Right: Wookie Photography Right: Rebecca Goddard Photography

Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based wedding planner and event organiser. She is also a member of the UK Alliance of Wedding Planners (UKAWP), an organisation that was founded with one purpose – to promote professionalism in wedding planning.

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E AG D NT AN

IC R USTHIRE R ROP

VI TRO E P

Tony Lumb Wedding Photography

UR Y YO A R LD O F CIA E SP

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ITEMS TO HIRE FROM OUR COLLECTION OR TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR STYLING SERVICE OR PACKAGES

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

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

The Perfect Venue Wedding or private venue party

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

Fakenham Road, Lethingsett, Nr Holt, NR25 7JJ


` To Creche the Wedding

or Not?

It’s one of the hardest decisions you’ll have to make when planning a wedding – to invite children or not? However, there is no right or wrong answer. Some friends will be delighted to leave their children at home, while others may be somewhat less than enthused. If children are on the guest list then why not a hire a wedding childcare service to keep them entertained throughout the day? An idea and resource that is often left off most wedding checklists and out of budgets, hiring a crèche or nanny for your wedding day can be a real saviour – children get to be part of the day, while mum and dad get to drink their wine and eat their cake while children are entertained. Stephanie Wallis, director of Safe and Sound Event Childcare, a childcare service available for weddings and events which works with some of East Anglia’s leading venues, says: “There is a pressure to have children at a wedding, but you have to do what you want, and decide how it works for you.” The company takes a production-like approach to its care and offers a full service taking into consideration the wedding schedule and the bride’s suggestions. Each service is tailored to individual needs and venues.

From the tiniest of tots to tumultuous 10 year olds, Safe and Sound Event Childcare caters for all ages and child numbers. The number of staff on the day depends on the number of children, and entertainment is varied to suit age groups. Stephanie adds: “It’s all about the logistics – the team, the equipment and the children. A two-yearold will scream, a five-year-old will run around and want attention, while a 10-year-old may be off climbing a tree - children will have an impact on the day. Our services stop parents being absent from the ceremony or speeches and it lets them enjoy their day too.” “The service is completely flexible for day or night,” explains Stephanie. “We can walk down the aisle with little ones, organise when and where children eat, look after them during speeches or provide an evening crèche. We can have eight year olds playing football, while another room is full of children watching a movie. “Our venues recommend us as a service so it’s important we take care of that venue. Some have antiques, while others may have water features. During a wedding parents are busy socialising and it’s difficult to keep an eye on children at all times we’re there to help.” If you’re nervous about how your guest might react, don’t worry, Stephanie says: “Some parents do raise concerns but it’s not about taking children away from the wedding. If you’re thinking of hiring a creche for your big day, a mention on the invitation is helpful. I always provide my details and I will happily answer any questions parents may have.” As well as providing fun entertainment, Stephanie has recently partnered with Boutique Booths, a full-length photo booth full of props and creativity for children. If this is starting to sound like the answer to all your wedding problems, it’s time to get booking. Stephanie and her team can be booked up to two years in advance. For more details visit www.safeandsoundevents.com

eastlife.co.uk

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Gracewell of Kentford A care home as individual as you are

Gracewell of Kentford is a purpose-built, luxury nursing home. We specialise in many different areas of care: residential, nursing, memory, rehabilitation and respite care so our residents have no requirement to move elsewhere if their care needs change.

Interested and want to find out more? Call 01638 555 090 or email: haa.kentford@gracewell.co.uk

Gracewell of Kentford (formerly Kentford Manor) Jeddah Way, Kennett Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 8JY

A New Way to Live Well

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20/10/2015 09:10


Written by Sue Cooke @cookecars

I find March an exciting month with longer sunnier days and the first bulbs of spring poking through and for those who are lucky enough, ownership of the first new plate change on a new car. Particularly if your new car happens to be one that has appeared in over 500 films and TV series, including the Bourne Supremacy. The SEAT Ibiza made its debut off the production line 30 years ago and this year the fourth generation model has been completely revised inside and under the skin. There is new technology and engines, and while the exterior styling, penned by former Lamborghini designer, Luc Donckerwolfe, has remained unchanged, there are lots of personalised customisation options and of course what has become a desirable feature - daytime running lights. The supermini segment is a competitive one but such has been the popularity of the Ibiza that five million have been bought worldwide. The Spanish built car is the only supermini which offers three body styles, the SC (Sport Coupe), the 5 door which is the best seller and the ST (Sports Tourer). The latter estate has boot space ranging from 430 litres up to an impressive 1,164 litres with rear seats folded. There are ten improved efficiency engines including a 1 litre up to a 1.4 litre petrol. Diesel power is confined to a 1.4 litre but with three different outputs – 75ps, 90ps, 105ps. The Ibiza Cupra is powered by a 1.8 litre, 192ps TSi engine, in which 0-62mph takes just 6.7 seconds and top speed red lines at 147mph.

MOTORING

THE FOURTH GENERATION

SEAT IBIZA Model: SEAT Ibiza FR Technology 5 door Price: £16,695 otr Engine: 1.4 litre EcoTSI 150 PS Performance: 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 137mph CO2 emissions: 110g/km Combined fuel consumption: 58.9mpg Picking up on a little March madness, SEAT has launched a new fiery 1.4 litre petrol engine this month which like a March hare bounds forward with the slightest touch on the accelerator. I really like this new engine which has an improved output of 150 PS and I can personally vouch for the guaranteed dynamic driving fun. Yet it is extremely quiet at low speed around local shops and has an impressive combined fuel consumption of 58.9mpg. The big change is new technology with new connectivity packages – Full Link, SEAT DriveApp and SEAT Connect App. Full Link integrates with Android or iOS smartphones. If you are looking for a nippy little everyday car, with Barcelona style and German substance, the new SEAT Ibiza offers the best of European flavouring and has almost caught up with the svelte styling and attraction of its bigger brother the Leon. An interesting March fact, in 1953 when the SEAT plant first opened, 925 workers built five cars a day. Now 700 robots each build an Ibiza every day!

eastlife.co.uk

65


Computer problems? Solutions for Home & Business • New PC’s & Laptops

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*T&C’s apply. Sold as an agent for Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation charges may apply Exclusions and Radius Apply. Selected Stores Only. Prices correct at time of print but can be subject to change. See in store for full details. Images for illustration purposes only. Copyright Euronics 2016. January E&EO 2016. BOSCH(£50CASHBACK)-BOTH.indd 1

03/02/2016 15:23


CONSUMER

Martin Lewis Talks...

How to SAVE on your energy bills All of the big six energy providers – British Gas, EDF, Eon, Npower, Scottish Power and SSE – have now announced price cuts to their standard tariffs, most to hit over the next month; but these are piddly, paltry, tiny, irrelevant and, ultimately, ignorable. Even after these cuts of roughly £30 a year, without any question you are BEING RIPPED OFF – typically by over £300 a year. If you’re detecting a sense of frustration in my writing, you are correct. I’ve been banging on about this for over a decade, yet still 70% of the UK population are on these damn awful tariffs. So before I get into the whats and hows, let me prove why you need to listen.

It’s quick and easy to switch Slashing the amount you pay for energy really isn’t difficult. It takes minutes to find your cheapest, then it’s switched over in 17 days. I got four newish members of my team to do a comparison and on average it took 5 minutes 52 seconds. Those who worry about switching, don’t – it’s the same pipes, gas, meter and safety – the only thing that changes is price and customer service.

Use a comparison site but do it the right way As your saving and your cheapest depends on where you live and what you use, there’s no one winner. Plug your details into a comparison site and it’ll show your best deal. To do this, you need your address, your current tariff and your usage. The best usage to put in is your Kilowatt hours, if

not that, then your annual cost, if not then monthly cost. If you don’t have any info – just guess! While you may not get the perfect result, if you’re on a standard tariff you’ll save substantially. To do a comparison you can use my www.CheapEnergyClub.com or, alternatively, you can use any www.ofgem.gov.uk approved comparison site, but, if so, do watch for two things.

Ensure it searches all tariffs Some comparison sites by default will only show you the tariffs that they get paid for. This filters out some of the cheapest deals. Make sure when you’re doing a comparison you’ve selected the option to see all the results, that way you’ll get to see the best deals.

Beware personal projections if you’re on a fixed tariff When doing a comparison, most comparison sites follow the regulators’ guidance and show your ‘personal projection’, which is effectively your average energy cost over the next year. This is normally fine, but is nonsense for anyone on a fixed tariff ending within 12 months – something I’ve campaigned against, to little avail.

Check customer service feedback It’s not all about pure price, service counts. It may be worth paying a little more for one with a good service record; Ovo is relatively cheap for many people with a good track record. Most comparison sites include some service listings.

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Richard Allington Kitchens FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES & SURVEYS

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and special occasions. Or just helping them freshen up their wardrobe for a new exciting season ahead.

What do you love about working in the East?

FACT FILE

I love how friendly and thoughtful people are; we’ve even experienced customers bringing us flowers to thank us for our time. We especially love the ones who pop in just for a chat and a cup of coffee.

Name: Karen Wolff-Evans Company: Fanny & Frank, established May 2004 Location: Woodbridge, Suffolk and Saffron Walden, Essex Cambridge Border

Tell us about Fanny & Frank We are an upmarket mini-department store selling gorgeous ladies wear, menswear, footwear, handbags, fragrances and other home and personal accessories.

What role do you play in the company? My biggest responsibility is the company buyer. Nothing goes into the shops that I haven’t personally selected. My next role is to ensure that all stock is presented to my customers in a way that makes sense so I’m also the main store merchandiser and of course my favourite role is working with customers.

What areas do you cover in East Anglia? Our customers come from all over the East of England and many from Norfolk and London but we are delighted to be heavily supported by the local communities in and around Woodbridge and Saffron Walden.

What is your favourite place to visit in East Anglia? When I need some time to clear my head and enjoy some space I head to Shingle Street, I still can’t believe its such an unspoilt part of the country; it’s like stepping back in time.

What events will you be attending this year? I hope to be attending the East of England food awards in the hope that my husband and son, who are becoming famous for their scotch eggs as supplied to Harrods and Fortnum & Mason, might be picking up another award!

What can Eastlife readers look forward to from Fanny & Frank this year? An even more exciting selection of fabulous stock from our favourite designers plus some new additions to the stores. The girls and I look forward to welcoming everyone into the store, and showing them the loveliest of the new season’s fashions.

What makes your company special? We have the most fantastic staff in both our branches that are friendly and genuinely love fashion. It gives us all huge pleasure to help our customers look and feel great. At this time of year we are very busy helping people dress for weddings

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We had our whole house installed with new windows and doors by ECOnomy Windows, and are absolutely delighted with the overall installation. We now have a constant heat in our home, which means more economical fuel bills. We’re really pleased with the overall product and the fitting team were absolutely brilliant. We recommend ECOnomy Windows to all our friends and family whenever they cometo admire our new windows and doors.

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Clear quality and green thinking from ECOnomy Windows... Y

ou may think that windows, doors and conservatories have very little to do with the environment, but with subjects such as energy efficiency and recycling remaining high on the agenda, people are increasingly choosing products that don’t just look fantastic but have strong green credentials too. For over 25 years (and throughout more than 18,000 local installations to date) ECOnomy Windows has been committed to introducing innovative products that satisfy the most discerning of customers – and benefit both their homes and the wider environment in which they live. Take the company’s range of tripleglazed ECOtherm Plus products for

example. In addition to their stunning good looks, they’re 100% lead-free, A+ rated as standard, can reduce your home’s carbon emissions by up to 70% and can help make your domestic heating bills up to 40% smaller. It’s no wonder they’ve proved such an unqualified success. But at ECOnomy Windows, environmental concerns aren’t simply restricted to the products themselves. “For us, energy saving has never been just a phrase,” says ECOnomy Windows‘ Jim McClure. “It’s something

we’ve stood by for over a quarter of a century now. It also means that on every project we recycle almost everything we can – the glass, the uPVC, even the timber products. We’re aiming for 50% recycling, and we firmly believe that to be achievable.” If you’re looking to give your home a brighter, greener outlook for 2016 and want to take advantage of today’s technology, contact ECOnomy Windows or visit the showroom and discover all the high quality and high performing options for yourself.

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Green Heat’s MD Peter thom is currently celebrating the company’s 25th anniversary. the small family company offers impartial and expert advice on all options for new and replacement gas boilers – for all your heating and hot water needs.

Green Heat is a member of one such organisation – the Institute of Domestic Heating and Environmental Engineers (IDHEE), so will undertake your work according to a strict code of conduct.

Green Heat is the most awarded UK heating and energy efficiency company and, as Peter says, “there is no need to look any further for the best advice, and a free boiler quotation”. the company has many years’ experience and was said to be “better value than British Gas” by The Times.

The company, which also installs state of the art heating and hot water controls including app smartphone devices and the latest flue gas heat recovery for combination boilers taking efficiencies close to 100% is happy to work with home owners looking to reduce both their fuel bills and their carbon emissions.

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HOME & GARDEN

Top Tips For Spring Cleaning Your Home Danielle Harris, founder of Oak Furniture Superstore (www.oakfurnituresuperstore.co.uk) says there’s nothing like a thorough spring clean to prepare your home for the change in seasons, The brighter days and warmer weather can really motivate you to make a fresh start in your home. To help you with what can often feel like a daunting task, I have put together some of my top tips for staying motivated and getting the most out of your spring clean:

CREATE A PLAN OF ACTION Start by writing a list of rooms that need tackling and the tasks that need to be completed within each room. It can be encouraging to start with the rooms that require the most work as you will see results quicker than you will when cleaning rooms that you don’t use as often. You should also allow extra time to sort through your drawers and cupboards and de-clutter where possible.

PREPARE YOUR CLEANING SUPPLIES Ensure that you have everything you need before you start your spring clean so that you won’t need to run out for different cleaning materials during

the day, and you can focus on the task in hand. Most cleaning products will specify which materials they can be safely used on, and it is important to check this information to avoid causing damage during your spring clean.

CLEAN FURNITURE CAREFULLY Furniture finished with a protective lacquer, or high gloss pieces, usually need no more than an occasional clean with a damp cloth, but natural wood furniture without a lacquer coating will need to be oiled regularly to keep the wood moisturised and help to prevent against splitting. If you do choose to use a cleaner, always test it on a small patch of your furniture before using it on the whole piece, this way you can ensure that it is safe to use. Just apply a small amount of cleaner to a hidden area and leave for 24 hours to see is any damage or discolouration is caused. You should also ensure that you use cloths that will not damage or discolour your furniture, white microfiber cloths are often a great option. By following these tips, you can complete a successful spring clean and ensure that your home is ready for the new season.

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Time to change your old boiler? The Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive will pay you 10.98p per kilowatt when you change to a biomass boiler.

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BUYING A BED

It’s officially National Bed Month so why not give your mattress or bed an MOT with these buying tips?

With so many different types of beds on the market how do you decide which is best for you? Pocket sprung or a memory foam mattress? Divan or bedstead? Getting professional advice can help you through the bed-buying process. Simon Bambridge of www.bed-e-buys.net, founder member of The Sleep Council, and approved by the National Bed Federation, provides these tips to make it easier for you:

Choose the correct support and comfort for your weight and build – not just firmness. Think big – larger beds are more comfortable. Being disturbed by a sleeping partner is one of the most common complaints. With a larger bed you are less likely to disturb one another. Don’t forget a bed is a mattress and a base working together – don’t consider them in isolation.

Decide your priorities and concerns in advance. For example, consider price, storage, access to bedroom, turning the mattress, getting in and out of bed, overall size, or a health issues such as a bad back.

Check dimensions. Bed sizes are not standardised – even if they have the same name (e.g. king size) they may not be the same size, especially if the mattress and base are not from the same manufacturer.

If possible, try a selection of beds for comparison before you buy. Set aside enough time to do the job properly so you can appreciate the differences.

Ask you bed retailer whether they offer free delivery, and free disposal of the old bed. This can save you considerable time and money.

Wear comfortable clothing, remove any outdoor gear and lie on the bed for quite a long time at least 10 minutes. Lie down in your normal sleeping position and make some turns too.

Remember, you’re going to spend over 20,000 hours on your bed during its (seven year) lifespan so it’s worth taking a little time and effort in the beginning to make sure you make the right choice.

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HADLEIGH KITCHEN & BEDROOM STUDIO 86-88 High Street, Hadleigh IP7 5EF

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17x125 T/G ..................53p p/m p/m 3x2 CLSClad ..............................94p 19x125 T/G ..................59p p/m p/m 4x2 CLSClad ............................£1.20 3x2 CLS ..............................94p p/m 1x6 T/ogee Skirt ..............£1.80 p/m 4x2 CLS ............................£1.20 (other sizes available) p/m 1x6 T/ogee p/m All Skirt timber..............£1.80 plus Vat

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Summer Borders 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

Standing in the sun today it was warm. Really warm, which in London in March is both unusual and very welcome. As I basked in the hazy golden sun my thoughts turned to the fact that summer is really not so far away now and these warm days which are soon to be longer as the clocks alter at the end of the month mean that gardens now begin to emerge from their icy hibernation and rocket into life. Now is an ideal time to plant a summer border and I have decided to do just that in an area of my own garden. I would like my newly planted area to be mainly shades of white with highlights from allium. The area I have allocated is not large, about 4m x 2m and faces almost due south. The backdrop to the new planting is an existing, mature Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’ which will add contrast with its plum coloured leaves - or at least that is the plan.

Other plants that I will be considering are:

With so many plants to pick from it is hard to pin down a sensible number of choices. The temptation to have one of everything I love is still very great, even after almost 40 years gardening but if I am to really harden my heart then I should start with form so, Buxus for impact – a squat low ball at each end. A small shrub would be nice, perhaps a Philadelphus (P. ‘Belle Etolie’ would be my ideal) but I think it is going to grow too large so I opt for Rosa ‘Margaret Merril’ instead. At about 1.5m high and 1m wide this rose provides colour and scent in a relatively compact form from June to September and the blooms as an added bonus make wonderful cut flowers. I always think of roses as quintessentially English and so this sets the tone of the scheme.

Aquilegia x hybrida ‘Green Apples‘, Lupinus ‘Noble Maiden’ (If you can keep the aphids and molluscs away then Lupins are a joy in the garden), Geranium phaeum ‘Album’, Campanula latifolia var. ‘Alba’, Astrantia ma jor ‘Buckland’ and Paeonia lactiflora ‘Festiva maxima’: I think it would be hard not to include a Peony of some sort in an early summer scheme and this particular double form has huge white flowers with plum splashes on the edges of its petals, which provide a visual link to the pink shade of the Astrantia and help link the scheme together.

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ARTS

THE ARTS COLUMN

Punu Gabon Mask

Senufo Bronze Mask

Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right.

A sterner and perhaps more intense personality is conjured by lot 122, a Kjebé Senufo Mask. Combining the features of animals and humans, Senufo masks are created by specialist artists who have a high status and live apart from the rest of the community in their village. Other lots include stylized wooden carvings and joyous terracotta water jugs. Whether a piece has been created for ritual, beauty or practical everyday life, each is imbued with meaning and expression.

In the final throws of her drenched and frozen fury, the winter is still reminding us of her power and beauty. When your bones can chill no more, head for Tiptree in Essex and bask in the warmth of the Sculpt Gallery’s latest collection. From Saturday 5 -12 March the gallery is excited to be hosting its first charitable auction. ‘Tribal Art’ is an exhibition and sale of authentic 20th Century African masks, sculptures and unusual objects d’art. From royal masks made from wood and copper to humble but beautiful wooden figures and stone plates, there is an array of intriguing carvings and sculptures. All of the items have been personally selected and procured by gallery owner Debra Blik. Working with collectors and specialist art dealers from across the globe, Debra has brought together this wonderful visual event in aid of The Waterberg Welfare Society, South Africa.

Each lot can be found on the Sculpt Gallery’s website on its ‘News and Exhibitions’ page. You can simply browse the pieces here or request a catalogue. You will find a guide price and details of each work, including fascinating facts and a description. The auction will be conducted via sealed bids, with the highest bidders notified during the week commencing 13 March. For full details of the auction and of the Waterberg Welfare Society and aid that it provides, visit the gallery’s website or contact Debora via email. Tribal Art Auction 5 - 12 March

At the first glimpse of the catalogue one is transported to a land of exciting texture and wonder. Over 25 mysterious pieces entice one to consider and explore a world and time of difference. Lot 114 is a rare and beautifully preserved Punu Gabon Royal Mask. Sculpted from wood and combined with copper, cowrie shells and beads, it projects a powerful yet gentle character.

Preview Weekend Sat 5 & Sun 6 March Sculpt Gallery, Priory Mews, Braxted Park Road, Tiptree (Nr Gt Braxted), Essex CO5 0QB Tel: 07980768616 www.sculptgallery.com

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

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With over a decade of supplying the highest quality giclĂŠe print and framing services around, Bob & Gary really are the only people to visit in 2016 for your fine art print & framing.

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MARCH

ARTS NEWS

Scene: a new way of looking Wimpole is celebrating the 300th anniversary of the birth of the great landscape designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown in 2016 with a diverse programme of themed events, starting with a contemporary artwork installation. ‘Scene’ at Wimpole

Adrian Lever

Multimedia piano/visual art project to debut in Norwich Norfolk based pianist Adrian Lever has teamed up with visual artists from the county to create a new music and multimedia performance piece that celebrates the landscape and coast of the county. Titled ‘Confluence’, the first performances of the work, created and performed by Lever, will be at Norwich’s Anteros Foundation this month before its London launch in April. The musical landscape of ‘Confluence’ reflects impressions of Adrian’s childhood home areas (the South Norfolk marshes, North Norfolk coast, and The Broads) through the unifying theme of water - its inspiration, beauty, vitality, mythology and unpredictability. The venue doors will also open early for audiences to view them as standalone art, with a full days viewing on 19 March prior to the concert on that day. www.norwichartscentre.co.uk

Created by NEON, an award-winning design practice, the installation, called ‘Scene’, can be discovered by visitors to Wimpole’s North Park, which was created by Brown from now until 30 October. ‘Scene’ invites visitors to follow in the footsteps of Amabel, a member of the Yorke family at Wimpole in the eighteenth century who immersed herself in the new parkland created by Brown, and made it the subject of her art. Visitors to the North Park will find nine three-metre high structures that are part easel, part viewing glass. Each easel captures a different element of Brown’s landscape design within its viewing glass, allowing you to discover the features that make up the whole composition. Photos of artistic creations can be shared on social media, using the hashtag #sceneatwimpole

What’s on at Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds The Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds has a busy month coming up with everything from drama and comedy to opera and jazz. Swansea City Opera take to the stage on 8 March with Puccini’s classic opera, La Boheme. On March 24 jazz lovers will enjoy The Ronnie Scott’s Story which is a musical celebration of the famous club. Combining world class live jazz from The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars Quintet, narration and rare archive photos and video footage, this show mixes classic music from jazz greats alongside tales of old Soho. Rounding off the month is the Theatre Royal’s co-production with The Original Theatre Company, Invincible. This is the story of London couple, Emily and Oliver who have decided to downsize and move to a small town in the north of England, meeting new neighbours Dawn and Alan. www.theatreroyal.org

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WITHOUT SURGERY AT RADIANT BEAUTY Radiant Beauty is a well established medical aesthetic clinic offering the most clinically effective skin rejuvenation treatments at affordable prices with a new office at 9 Clements Road, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1SZ and satellite clinics in Newmarket, Bury St Edmunds and Colchester. Improve skin tone with a chemical peel chosen for your skin type. Erase age lines and wrinkles with state of the art injectable treatments. Sun damaged skin, age spots and facial thread veins can also be treated and unwanted hair permanently removed.

7 Market Street, Ely CB7 4PB

01353 663131 www.citycyclecentre.com www.all-hallows.org.uk

Supported Breaks in the Waveney Valley

For adults with physical disabilities or special needs and their companions to have a holiday or short break

All Hallows is situated in the village of Ditchingham on the Norfolk and Suffolk border near the beautiful River Waveney. The area has some of the county's most scenic and peaceful countryside an ideal place to come for a break. The building is fully wheelchair accessible and has specialist disabled features with caring and dedicated staff. No matter what level of support you need you can be confident that All Hallows will be able to help. For further details about our facilities, things to do and our care packages please contact the team on

t: 01986 892728 e: info@all-hallows.org.uk

All treatments are provided by a highly qualified nurse practitioner in a lovely discrete setting in the heart of Woodbridge. Phone for a free consultation with Dr. Kathleen Walker on 01394 386887 or email kathy@drkathywalker.com


No more excuses, Cambridge: it’s time to get in shape

I’m not going to lie, when I was asked to review a personal training session at The Glassworks Health Club and Spa in Cambridge, I was truly terrified, and not because my last attempt at exercise resulted in a fractured patella. I am, without a doubt, one of the laziest people you will ever meet and the gym genuinely scares me. But off I went, recovering fracture and all, ready to compete with the buff bods on the running machine. It’s hard not to be immediately impressed by The Glassworks. Glass fronted, sleek and stylish, as the delicate aromas drifted past me in reception I began to feel at ease. I was greeted by personal trainer David Richards, who would be putting me through my paces for the next hour. With 10 years of experience as a PT, David was knowledgeable and understood my limits given my current injury. He suggested we work purely on upper body, much to my delight, I had escaped the treadmill.

HEALTH

WORKItOut

Written by Emma Kemsley

The gym has a modern vibe with state-of-the-art equipment and rows of running machines, housed in a large space with exposed brick work and beams. Some members were sweating it out on the treadmill, while others exercised with a PT, overall the atmosphere was calm and inviting, and made me excited to get started. We set to work with simple stretching, followed by reps of upper body and core exercises. Some exercises were more challenging than others, and if I had been on my own I would have quickly quit but thankfully David was there to offer full encouragement. I must admit, I have always thought of a personal training session as rather self-indulgent, but 10 minutes in and I could see why so many people choose this route. Having a trained expert by your side to guide you through the exercises, ensure you’re performing correctly and offer support every step of the way, you’re far more likely to see results quicker than slogging it out by yourself. Though I won’t be posting my workouts on Instagram like the celebs any time soon, I have discovered you don’t have to be worth as much as Gwyneth Paltrow to afford a one-on-one workout. Personal training at The Glassworks costs just £45 per hour - so rather than a night out, I shall be putting my pennies towards the perfect summer body! A membership at The Glassworks includes full use of the gym, luxurious changing facilities and spa, plus four types of yoga, spin, Pilates, combat fitness, TRX, bootcamp, toning as well as other aerobics workouts at the studio. Membership at The Glassworks costs from £54.50 Thompson’s Lane, Cambridge CB5 8AQ Tel: 01223 305060 www.theglassworksgym.co.uk

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EACH gift in every Will makes a difference

Contact Maddy Dodsworth on 01223 204913

Registered Charity No. 1069284

92634 Michael Gaunt (East Life) qrt_92634 Michael Gaunt (East Life) hf 02/02/2016 13:46 Page 1

Mr Michael Gaunt Consultant Vascular Surgeon Varicose and Thread Veins

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

Spire Lea & Nuffield Health Cambridge

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Holistic Wellbeing A new modern mindset

Written by Valerie Delffori

In this modern, busy world, it’s easy to want a ‘quick fix’ and take a pill or medicine in an effort to cure our health issues. But what if it’s come to the point where just managing our problems isn’t enough and we have become emotionally or physically ill? It’s this point that we can either book a doctors appointment or find an alternative solution. More and more people are turning to holistic therapies to help cure their health issues. After years of relying mostly on modern medicine, lotions and potions, many people are turning to the old and almost forgotten healing traditions, such as Shamanism, and Reiki. Here’s a short rundown of some of the most popular therapies that many are trying as a means to cure their ailments: Reiki Healing: A worldwide form of healing that is learned via Reiki ‘attunements’. During a hands on healing session the healer covers the clients chakras and channels ‘universal life force energy’, which floods the energy system with positive healing energies and releases negative energies. Shamanism: A traditional healing system, which originates from the old ways in countries such as Mongolian, the Aborigines in Australia and Peruvian indigenous tribes. Using the healing traditions passed down from their ancestors, the Shamans know how to visit the energy world, ‘journey’ and view the soul wounds of the client; helping them to release energies and create a healing transformation. Acupuncture: Using very fine needles, the practitioner places them in areas relating to ‘energy meridians’ in the body where life force energy flows. Placing the needles at the right point, alters and interrupts the energy flow, where blockages may have occurred, so that the energy becomes balanced and enables healing.

Theta Healing: A form of healing where the client is relaxed to a level of Theta brainwave can create transformation and healing by identifying unconscious beliefs that are holding them back, or causing physical disease. So rather than dealing with conscious limiting beliefs, Theta identifies unconscious root beliefs, thus creating release on an emotional, mental and physical level. EFT: (Emotional Freedom Technique): Often referred to as ‘psychological accupressure’; EFT works by releasing blockages within the physical energy system which cause emotional discomfort and blockages. These blockages are cleared by tapping certain points on the energy meridians, using either the practitioners or clients finger tips, until the intensity of the belief or emotion is cleared. These therapies are just the tip of the ‘alternative therapies’ iceburg. There is so much more out there for us to tap in to and for those who want to look at their whole being to find a way to heal from the inside-out, these therapies can really mark a new way forward. Valerie Delffori is a spiritual writer, teacher and healer based in Hertfordshire. For more information visit www.mindfulness.uk.com

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The CONFESSIONS of Crohns

Written by Thaila Skye

Thaila Skye is certainly not afraid to say what’s on her mind. The Cambridgeshire blogger who suffers with Crohn’s disease has grabbed the media’s attention nationwide and is raising awareness with her honest and gripping stories. This month Thaila shared her brave journey with us… Blogging and making videos on YouTube about poo isn’t what I imagined I’d to be doing with my life when I graduated from university. But since my emergency ostomy surgery in 2010, I’ve been doing exactly that. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in November 2009 and just four months later in 2010, my bowel was so damaged that my colon perforated after a colonoscopy. I had to have emergency surgery to drain the abscess that was caused by the perforation, to remove two sections of my colon and to re-route my digestive system through my abdominal wall. As a result of this life-saving surgery, I now have to wear two ostomy bags - all day, every day, forever. Some people’s reaction when I tell them I have ostomy bags is, “oh god, I’m so sorry,” or “that’s so terrible!” But compared to the symptoms of Crohn’s disease that I was having, I am actually really happy that I have them. Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which, amongst a wide range of complications, can cause inflammation and ulceration to any part of the digestive system. For me, this caused symptoms such as weight loss (my lowest weight was 6st), faecal urgency, bleeding, abdominal and rectal pain, malnutrition and eventually a perforated colon (with a

92

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nice dose of sepsis to go with it - that was not fun!). Since my surgery, I’ve been in remission – no pain, no bleeding, I gained weight and, most surprisingly of all, my confidence is through the roof. While my diagnosis of Crohn’s disease was in 2009, the symptoms started a lot earlier than that. During my second year of university around 2006, I started to lose a lot of weight and, while part of me just thought it was the student lifestyle (less food + more walking + lots of dancing at the student union), I knew that something wasn’t quite right because of how quickly I was losing the weight. Soon some of the other symptoms appeared and that reconfirmed my suspicions that something was wrong, but I was too embarrassed to speak to a doctor, so I ignored it. I often wonder; if I had actually gone to the doctors sooner when the symptoms first started, would they have been able to treat it with medication rather than resorting to surgery?


“ Blogging and making videos on YouTube I’d to be doing with my life

about poo isn’t what I imagined

When most people hear the word ‘ostomy’ (or more commonly ‘colostomy’ which is just a type of ostomy), the immediate reaction is a negative one. I was no exception. Being a 24-year-old at the time and getting the news of “the only option we have left is ostomy surgery” is something that terrified me, partly because it was a big change to my body, but mostly all I was worried about was how I would be perceived by others. I was supposed to have my whole life ahead of me, and all I felt was that my life had ended. But in actual fact, having ostomy surgery gave me my life back. I turned 30 this year, and I know for a fact that I wouldn’t be celebrating this milestone if it hadn’t been for the ostomy bags I now wear so proudly. It sounds so melodramatic, but I nearly died from embarrassment…literally. No-one likes talking about bowel-related conditions, and so many people suffer in silence. Take me for example, I ignored the symptoms and my condition got worse and worse until my colon perforated and I nearly died - all that could have been so easily avoided. Saying that, the problem with inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is that there is no cure - so they can flare up at any time with different levels of severity. So while I’m in remission now, I still have the disease, and it could flare-up again at any time. Part of the reason why I now share my experience on YouTube and in my blog is to try and help put a stop to the taboo and stigma around bowel conditions. For me, having to wear an ostomy bag is no different to having to wear glasses; it’s just another piece of tech that helps me live my life.

Read more about Thaila’s story at Blog: http://thailaskye.me.uk Twitter: @ThailaSkye

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WELWYN & HATFIELD

If you’re planning on stopping by these two popular Hertfordshire towns, read our top picks for places to visit…

HATFIELD HOUSE & STABLES A major attraction for anyone visiting the county, Hatfield House will re-open its doors for the 2016 season on 26 March. Built in 1611, the house features excellent Jacobean craftsmanship throughout. This year is the 100th anniversary of the official tank trails that took place in Hatfield Park. To commemorate the anniversary Hatfield House will host an exhibition about the history of the Tank at Hatfield with a full sized replica Mark IV Tank as its centerpiece. The Stable Yard at Hatfield House is the perfect destination for keen shoppers. Beautiful and quaint stores house exclusive retailers, in an area of Hatfield House that used to play home to the royal horses. Open year round from Tuesday to Sunday, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon. It also hosts weekend markets on the third weekend of every month. The Stable Yard Antiques Market takes place on a Saturday, while the Farmers’ Market is held on the Sunday. This month don’t miss out on the Dogs and Daffs Charity Dog Walk & Fun Dog Show, which takes place on 13 March and the French Market on 27 March. For more events visit www.hatfield-house.co.uk/events

THE GALLERIA The Galleria is a central hub for entertainment. A popular lifestyle and leisure attraction for both residents and visitors, the outlet shopping centre is home to over 80 stores including well-known retailers

BEDS, BUCKS, HERTS

WHY WE LOVE

and specialised brands. Kids can burn off energy at Get Wild, a jungle-themed adventure area, while teens and adults can relax at the cinema or dine at one of the many cafes and restaurants. www.thegalleria.co.uk

WELWYN VILLAGE Located a few miles north of busy Welwyn Garden City, this small and charming village has plenty to offer. Start your trip with a visit the Welwyn Roman Baths. Though you can’t take a hot bath anymore, you can see fascinating remains of Roman culture. After soaking up a little history, spend the afternoon browsing the independent boutiques and stores and finish with a bite to eat; family-run Italian Vita and traditional pubs The Wellington and The White Horse are all popular choices.

MILL GREEN MILL AND MUSEUM Set in a beautiful riverside setting, the 18th century working watermill and museum features three exhibition rooms packed with local art and historical items. Craft workshops and fun activities for children are held here throughout the year. On milling days, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sunday afternoons, visitors can see the watermill power into action, while on warmer days guests can make the most of the river setting with a picnic and walk in the Mill Green Jubilee Garden. From Easter Sunday until the last weekend in October, cream teas will be available every Sunday and Bank Holiday from 2.30pm – 4.30pm. www.welhat.gov.uk/millgreenmuseum


Mill Green Mill & Welwyn Roman Baths MILL GREEN MILL

Exciting programme of events

Enjoy a Cream Tea on Sunday afternoons Easter to end of October

Fully restored working watermill, set in lovely gardens. See milling on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sunday afternoons. Also open Thursday and Bank Holidays. ● Museum displays ● Gift shop ● Craft Workshops and Taster Days ● Refreshments during summer opening hours. ● Programme of children’s activities during all holidays ● Bread making and historical food one day courses ● See our website for details

WELWYN ROMAN BATHS ● Tunnel through time, under the A1 Motorway to the world of the Romans ● 10 minutes drive from Mill Green, unique remains of a once luxurious villa bathing suite ● Displays of Roman objects from the local area ● Open weekends, bank holidays and school holidays. Schools and groups by arrangement. ● Gift shop

tel

01707 357850

web

www.welhat.gov.uk/museums


West Garden

Built by Robert Cecil over 400 years ago, Hatfield House is a fine example of a Jacobean House full of superb examples of craftsmanship, with State Rooms rich in paintings, fine furniture and tapestries. The picture perfect garden dates from the early 17th century when Robert Cecil employed John Tradescant the Elder to collect plants for his new home.

The Coach House Restaurant serves a variety of delicious food throughout the day from morning coffee and light lunches to cooked meals and afternoon tea. The Stable Yard is also the home to 10 unique shops, offering a range of exclusive shops offering beautifully designed gifts, jewellery, toys, art and a host of indulgent treats.

Stable Yard Shops and Restaurant

In 2016, Hatfield House will be commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first official tank trials which took place in the Park in February 1916. A replica Mark IV tank will be on display in the Park throughout the visitor season with information boards and an accompanying exhibition in the Library explaining the history of the Tank and its links to Hatfield House.

House, Park and Gardens open Easter Saturday to 30th September. 22 minute train journey from London Kings Cross. Pedestrian Entrance directly opposite Hatfield Railway Station. Free Parking - Sat Nav AL9 5HX 01707 287010 visitors@hatfield-house.co.uk *Terms and Conditions apply

www.hatfield-house.co.uk Hatfield House - East Mag - 2016.indd 1

14/01/2016 13:34:30


Come Comealong alongand and visit visit Lee Lee Valley Boat Centre at Broxbourne the heart Valley Boat in Centre at of Lee Valley Regional Park and experience a boat Broxbourne in the hearttrip of along the tranquil parkland onLee theValley RiverRegional Lee. Whether Park you prefer to spend the day just an hour on the andorexperience a boat trip river or enjoy a meal while cruising along, all tastes are catered for. along the tranquil parkland Situated midway between Enfield and Hertford on the River Lee. Whether you prefer to spend just off the A10 on A1170 will find free parking opposite the Boat Centre. the daywhere or justyou an hour on the river or enjoy a For information visit websites: mealfurther while cruising along,please all tastes areour catered for. Come along and visit & Lee Valley Boat Centre at www.leevalleyboats.co.uk www.riverleecruises.co.uk Comebetween along and visit LeeHertford Valley Boat Centre at Situated in the Enfield heart ofand Lee Valley Regional Park Call usBroxbourne onmidway 01992 462085 or email leevalleyboats@btconnect.com Broxbourne in the heart of Lee Valley Regional Park just offand the experience A10 on A1170a where youalong will find boat trip the tranquil parkland and experience a Centre. boat trip along the tranquil parkland free parking opposite the Boat on the River Lee. Whether you prefer to spend the on the River Lee. Whether you prefer to spendJoin the us to celebrate Roald Dahl’s day or justoran hour on visit the river or enjoy a meal while For further information please day just an hour onour thewebsites: river or enjoy a meal while 100th birthday in 2016 cruising along,along, all tastes are catered for. for. cruising all tastes are catered www.leevalleyboats.co.uk & Situated midway between Enfield and Hertford just off the A10 on Situated midway between Enfield and Hertford just off the A10 on A1170A1170 wherewhere you will opposite the Boat Centre. www.riverleecruises.co.uk youfind willfree find parking free parking opposite the Boat Centre. For further information please visit our websites: Discounts for pre-booked For further information please visit462085 our websites: Call us on 01992 or www.leevalleyboats.co.uk & www.riverleecruises.co.uk www.leevalleyboats.co.uk & www.riverleecruises.co.uk grou ps of 15 or more email462085 leevalleyboats@btconnect.com Call usCall on us 01992 or email leevalleyboats@btconnect.com on 01992 462085 or email leevalleyboats@btconnect.com

High Street Great Missenden Bucks HP16 0AL | 01494 892192 www.roalddahl.com/museum

THE A N T IQU E S AS S O C IAT ION BRING THIS ADVERT WITH YOU WHEN VISITING US FOR AN EXTRA DISCOUNT ON PURCHASES O f fer ing a g re at oppu r tu nit y to s e e a l arge s el e c t i on of ant i qu e s , b ot h big and sma l l w it h pr i c e s to su it e ve r y p o cke t . O p en d ai ly, 1 0 am to 5 . 3 0 pm 13 D e a l ers & 22 C abi ne t D e a l e rs w w w.ant iqu es ass o c i at i on . c o. u k 4 Market Pl a ce, Wobu r n , B e d fordsh i re, M K 1 7 9 PZ

Tel : 01525 290135 Emai l : e nqui r i es@ant i ques ass o ci at i on.co.u k


What’s on in Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE & SHOWS 1-5 Mar Epsom Downs 1977. The Queens Silver Jubilee. Its Derby Day and sporting fever is sweeping the nation. On Epsom Downs, horse trainers, policemen, families and socialites rub shoulders with drunks, travellers, buskers and bookmakers. The tension builds as the great race approaches, the sun beats down, the beer flows freely and lives are changed forever. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 1-5 Mar Goodnight Mister Tom Set during the dangerous build up to the Second World War, ‘Goodnight Mister Tom’ follows young William Beech, who is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside and forges a remarkable and heart warming friendship with the elderly recluse, Tom Oakley. All is perfect until William is suddenly summoned by his mother back to London. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 3-12 Mar Private Lives An elegant evening of wit and glamour that bubbles with sex and promises to be a deliciously delectable and unforgettable classic. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 4-Mar Rich Hall Rich Hall’s critically acclaimed grouchy, deadpan style has established him as a master of absurdist irony and the king of rapid-fire wit. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 4-Mar Arabian Nights and Days The Sultan summons a new wife every night. Every morning she is killed. The number of his victims mounts. The fear grows. Who will be next? Rhodes Theatre 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 4-Mar The Noise Next Door The unstoppable comedy juggernaut that is ‘The Noise Next Door’ are turning up the volume for their third national tour! Get ready for a night of mind-blowing songs, jaw-dropping characters and side-splitting punchlines from the undisputed masters of off-the-cuff comedy. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 6-Mar Count Duckula – The Jewels of Duckula This fantastic production, set in Duckula Castle, with it’s highly colourful and instantly recognisable characters, will contain loads of ‘spooky goings on’ and have something the children of all ages will love. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ

01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 7-12 Mar Hobsons Choice Henry Horatio Hobson is one of the greatest characters in English drama. Self-made man, shopkeeper, skinflint and boozer, he’s a tyrant to his daughters and a law unto himself. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 8-Mar Road Under the guidance of the rum-soaked wide boy Scullery, we are taken on an evening’s tour of a scruffy, depressed road in a small Lancashire town. Moving from street corner to livingroom, from bedroom to kitchen, we meet the inhabitants of young, middle-aged, and old, glimpsing their socially and emotionally wretched lives, in this sharp, sad, funny, and angry play. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY www.courttheatre.co.uk 8-12 Mar A Raisin in the Sun A ferocious portrayal of working class life on the cusp of the civil rights era, Lorraine Hansberry’s landmark drama bursts with intense family conflict, racial politics and social consciousness. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 9-Mar Ireland’s Call Inspired by true events and spanning three decades, this uplifting musical from the producers of Essence of Ireland, follows the extraordinary journey of the strong-headed Sean Dempsey, who, at the end of WW2, leaves behind his childhood sweetheart, Cora, and his beloved homeland, Ireland, in search of a better life in the Big Apple.The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 10-Mar Sean Lock – Keep it Light Every three years the comedian Sean Lock writes and tours a new stand-up show. Well he’s only gone and done it again! What’s he like? Come and see what he’s blithering on about this time Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 13-Mar Spartacus Grigorovich’s Spartacus was created at the Bolshoi in 1968 and has since remained the Russian company’s signature ballet. This most spectacular production is an epic tour de force, giving full expression to the strength for which the Bolshoi’s male dancers are renowned. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 13-Mar Craig Campbell This internationally acclaimed comedian

is one of stand-ups most charismatic and inventive performers with hilarious tales of globetrotting adventure never failing to impress (one expectant mother laughed so hard her waters broke!). The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk 14-19 Mar Chicago The Musical Based on real life events back in the roaring 1920s, nightclub singer Roxie Hart shoots her lover and along with cell block rival, double-murderess Velma Kelly, they fight to keep from death row with the help of smooth talking lawyer, Billy Flynn. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 14-19 Mar Annie ‘Annie’, the world’s favourite family musical, starring Birds of a Feather star Lesley Joseph as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan! Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 15-16 Mar Stones in his Pockets A quiet Irish village community is turned upside down with the arrival of a Hollywood film crew, looking for the ‘real’ Ireland for their latest schmaltzy blockbuster. A pair of extras, Charlie and Jake, watch with amazement, envy and delight as cultures clash, divas strop, and everyone fights over the last portion of lemon meringue pie. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN 01234 362337. www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 15-19 Mar The History Boys Alan Bennett’s multi-award winning play follows an unruly bunch of upper sixth form students as they prepare to take the entrance examinations for Oxford and Cambridge in the mid 1980’s. Along the way they are helped, hindered, enlightened and bemused by a maverick English teacher and two History teachers with very differing styles. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 16-Mar Ed Byrne – Outside, Looking In That bloke. You know. The Irish guy. No, not the bald one. The other one. You know him. The one Carol from work really likes. Wait, that might be Jason Byrne. Anyway. Funny chap. Has a new show! Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 16-19 Mar All My Sons During World War II, Joe Keller was accused of knowingly shipping damaged airplane parts that led to the deaths of 21 servicemen. While only his business partner, Herbert Deever was convicted of the crime, Keller was guilty as well. When both his own family and the Deever family find out the truth, it damages even

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Discover the splendour of the Abbey and all its treasures

FIND US ON

Tel: 01525 290333 admissions@woburn.co.uk www.woburnabbey.co.uk

Stroll through 28 acres of award-winning beautiful gardens. Treat yourself at the Duchess’ Tea Room.

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Just off J13 of the M1 or the A5 (MK43 0XB or MK17 9QN). See website for opening hours. www.woburnsafari.co.uk info@woburnsafari.co.uk Telephone: 01525 290407 J2856 WSP Eastlife ad 148x107_Mar16.indd 1

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further the relationship between both families’ children, who were left scarred by their own experiences during the war. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 18-Mar Psychic Sally: Call Me Psychic The nations favourite psychic, Sally Morgan is back and better than ever with her brand new and most jaw-dropping show yet - Call Me Psychic. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 20-Mar The Secret of Kells A young Irish boy, in a remote medieval outpost under siege from barbarian raids, is beckoned to adventure when a celebrated master illuminator arrives with an ancient book, brimming with secret wisdom and powers. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org 24-28 Mar Alice In Wonderland Chase the White Rabbit and tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice into a delightful world full of curious characters. Watch as Alice races a Dodo, joins the fabulous Caucus Set and even takes tea with the Mad Hatter and March Hare. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk MUSIC 6-Mar Rat Pack: Vegas Spectacular Wonderful memories of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin & Sammy Davis in a fabulous production that continues to be successful worldwide. All totally live and every song is an absolute classic. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 8-Mar Russ Ballard Formerly lead vocalist and guitarist with Argent, Russ Ballard has gone on to have a long and successful solo career as both musician and songwriter. The Stables Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU 01908 280800. www.stables.org 8-12 Mar Ware Operatics: Pirates of Penzance The show is packed with laughter, romance and a ship-full of memorable melodies and catchy tunes. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 9-Mar Limehouse Lizzy Renowned for their action-packed pyrotechnic-fuelled explosion of a show, Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Phil Lynott and his band Thin Lizzy alive and well. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 10-Mar The Chicago Blues Brothers This non-stop revue is packed with over two hours of the very best Blues, Motown & Soul music. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 0753993. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 11-Mar Buddy Holly: A Legend Reborn Backed by a band reminiscent of the Crickets in their Fifties heyday, Buddy Holly – A Legend Reborn is an authentic slice of rock ’n’ roll nostalgia that ensures Buddy’s incredible legacy of unforgettable hit songs lives on. Grove Theatre,

Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 13-Mar Simon & Garfunkel Revival Band – Feelin’ Groovy Wherever they perform, these very likeable full-blooded musicians make a lasting and enthusiastic impression on the audience and have received gushing reviews. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 19-Mar Kind of Getz Stan Getz, arguably the most popular tenor saxophonist in Jazz created a rich and timeless legacy that still thrives today. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN 01234 362337. www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 19-Mar Empirical ‘Empirical’ are one of the coolest UK jazz groups known for producing forward looking, risk taking, creative music. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 19-Mar Magic A Kind of Queen It’s refreshing that in these days of pre-recorded backing tracks, Magic perform completely live. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 23-Mar Chas & Dave A mixture of vintage rock ‘n’ roll songs and new renditions of their own rockney classics. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 24-26 Mar Simply the Best Fantastic family entertainment that will delight all ages - featuring music, songs and dances from some of the best-loved shows, films and artists of all time. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk 25-Mar Lulu in Concert The incredible Lulu still has plenty to shout about and is back with another fantastic tour. Join her on a musical journey, as she recalls personal anecdotes, song writing experiences, and other entertaining stories. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 31-Mar Country Superstars This show is hosted by Sarah Jayne who has been performing as Dolly Parton for over 22 years and is Europe’s Leading Tribute to the Queen of Country – Dolly Parton. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk

8-19 Mar Ideas in Sculpture A sculpture exhibition from a group who attend Ivan Daggett’s studio at Parndon Mill, showing work in a variety of media. Courtyard Arts, Port Vale, Hertford, SG14 3AA. 01992 509596 www.courtyardarts.org.uk 24 Mar - 16 Apr 11th Courtyard Open Courtyard’s Open attracts a high quality and wide ranging submission of 2D and 3D work from around the county and further afield. The selected pieces and prizewinners create a vibrant, diverse and sometimes unexpected show. Courtyard Arts, Port Vale, Hertford, SG14 3AA. 01992 509596 www.courtyardarts.org.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 12-Mar Hertford Farmers Market The market features produce from local livestock, poultry and dairy farmers together with fruit, vegetables, honey, preserves and bakery products produced in the countryside surrounding Hertford. 8.30am - 1.30pm. Market Place, Hertford 13-Mar Dogs and Daffs Charity Dog Walk & Fun Dog Show Banish those winter blues and put your best foot forward for charity. Come along to the Stable Yard at Hatfield House with your pooch and stroll the grounds of Hatfield Park. Hatfield House Hatfield, AL9 5NQ. 01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk 27-28 Mar Jousting at Knebworth Costumed knights on ma jestic warhorses gallop at full tilt across the arena in a fantastic display of horsemanship. Knights demonstrate their skills in hand to hand combat to the delight of the crowds who are encouraged to cheer, and jeer, their favourite knights. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG3 6PY 01438 812661. www.knebworthhouse.com 27-Mar The French Market The French traders will drive to Hatfield from northern France in time for opening at 10am and will be selling products such as baguettes, croissants, tarts, a wide range of soft and hard cheeses and more. 10am - 4pm. Hatfield House, Hatfield, AL9 5NQ. 01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 6-Mar Bishop’s Stortford Antiques Fair 23 stalls with varied collectables, glass, vintage, Victoriana and furniture. Proving to be a very well attended and successful fair. 9.30am - 4pm. Entry £1. Bishop’s Stortford Football Club, Dunmow Road Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 5RG 10-Mar Bonhams’ Valuation Days Bonhams’ specialists offer free auction advice on any item from jewellery to cars. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1-26 Mar Titanic Johnson The 6th Borough Artwork inspired by music from Titanic Johnson. Hertford Theatre, The Wash Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com

19-Mar Vintage, Antiques & Collectors’ Market You will find a range of stalls selling furniture, silverware, china, glass, books, prints, postcards and the unusual. 10am 5pm. Hatfield House, Hatfield, AL9 5NQ. 01707 287010. www.hatfield-house.co.uk

7-31 Mar Bedfordshire The first themed show of the year, where the artists explore the topic of ‘Bedfordshire’. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk

20-Mar Biggleswade Antiques Fair Over 40 stalls offering a wide range of antiques. Open 9.30am-4pm. Admission £1.50. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH 01480 382432

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MELTON

TILE

STUDIO

For All Your Natural Stone & Ceramic Tiling Needs

with ranges to suit all budgets. MARBLE BASINS ALSO AVAILABLE FROM £200

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

Orwell River Cruises Ltd 15A Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB Telephone 01502 714234

01473 258070

www.orwellrivercruises.com


SUFFOLK

WHY WE LOVE

STOWMARKET

It may be small but Stowmarket has plenty to offer visitors. Here’s how to make the most of a day in the delightful market town…

Shopping With its mix of high street stores and independent retailers, Stowmarket is a great Suffolk shopping spot. You’ll find plenty of stores to browse, and when you can’t carry your shopping bags any further, put your feet up at one of the many wonderful tea rooms. If you’re a fan of markets, stop by the street market held in the Town Centre every Thursday and Saturday, or visit the Farmers’ Market held on the first Friday of every month.

The Museum of East Anglian Life Discover the stories from a time gone by as you delve into the history of East Anglian lives through buildings, collections and landscapes. As well as brushing up on your history, the 75 acre site allows you to explore nearly 3km of woodland and riverside trails.

The museum features powerful steam engines and is home to Suffolk Punch horses and rare breeds of cattle and sheep. On 16 March the museum will host Discovery Day, a family learning opportunity full of activities, while 27 March is Easter Fun Day, where children can take part in an Easter egg hunt and feed the lambs! www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum What better way to see the Suffolk countryside than by hopping aboard a steam rail? The museum at Brockford, just outside Stowmarket runs regular steam trains. The next trains are set to depart on Sunday 27 and Monday 28 March when there will also be Easter activities for children. www.mslr.org.uk

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What’s on in Suffolk THEATRE & SHOWS 5-Mar Brendan Cole - A Night to Remember Strictly Come Dancing’s most charismatic choreographers and performers, will host throughout as he leads his cast on a journey of music and dance in a spectacular night of theatrical entertainment. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

11-Mar Swan Lake The greatest romantic ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score. From the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

22-23 Mar Round and Round the Garden by Alan Ayckbourn At times wildly comic, and at times poignant ‘Round And Round The Garden’ brilliantly portrays the complicated relationships amongst these six intertwined characters. Whatever happened to a peaceful weekend in the country? Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk

5-Mar Sing-a-Long Frozen Introduced by a live host who will guide you through this interactive screening by showing you how to use your free prop bag, warm up your singing voices and teach you some dance moves with the help of the Singalonga Princesses. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk

12-Mar Sleeping Beauty Every child’s favourite fairy tale, this is the classic story of love and innocence, mystery and magic set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score. Stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets form the fantasy world in which the Lilac Fairy struggles against the evil Carabosse. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

23-Mar Nick Robinson Never at a loss and able to deliver not just the news, but a definitive judgment on it, Nick Robinson join sus to talk about his life and work, including reporting on an adrenaline-fuelled years which culminated in a captivating election which transformed Britain’s political landscape. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

12-Mar The Strange Case Of Dr Jekyll And Mr Hyde A classic morality masterpiece of murder and mystery. Who is the monstrous Mr Hyde and how is he connected with mild mannered Dr Jekyll? The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk

23-Mar Gordon Buchanan Join Gordon Buchanan, the highly acclaimed wildlife cameraman and presenter of ‘The bear family and me’ and ‘The Polar Bear family and me’ as he hosts an evening of exciting personal recollections, and lets you into his world of weird, wild and wonderful wildlife. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich IP1 1DH. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

5-Mar Sing-A-Long-A Dirty Dancing Join Baby and Johnny in a fun-filled screening of the 1987 dance classic film where you are the stars of the show. The host, will lead a vocal warm up, show you how to use your ‘magic moments fun pack’ and have you dancing really dirty… Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 9-Mar Salute to the 1940s Dad’s Army Special. Alongside songs by George Formby, Vera Lynn, The Andrews Sisters, Frank Sinatra and Gracie Fields, and recitals of the poems by Wilfred Owen, this ultimate wartime variety show celebrates the release of the new Dad’s Army film by incorporating a number of scenes from the popular sitcom. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 9-Mar Fascinating Aida’s Dillie Keane With brand new tunes, grand old favourites, gorgeous songs of love and hilarious songs of utter wickedness, Dillie will break your heart, mend it again and have it sent to the cleaners for pressing. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 10-Mar An Evening with Pam Ayres Pam Ayres has been making the nation laugh for over 40 years. Her work is funny, and approachable, with an eye for the detail of everyday life, and for the absurdity therein. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St EdmundsIP33 3FD 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 10-Mar Snow Maiden Based on a traditional folk-tale, set in the snow covered landscape of rural Russia, this seasonal sparkler follows the Snow Maiden as she dances into the human world. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

13-Mar New Words, Fresh Voices Described as ‘a place of truth-telling which is the basis of all good poetry’, contributors explore what is good, bad and fascinating about being human – all told with refreshing honesty and good humour. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 13-Mar The Bolshoi Live presents: Spartacus Captured by the Roman army, Spartacus and Phrygia are condemned to slavery. After becoming a gladiator, Spartacus foments a legendary rebellion. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 15-19 Mar The Crucible The story of a small community driven to madness by superstition, paranoia and malice is a savage attack on the evils of mindless persecution and the power of false accusations. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 17-Mar Abigail’s Party Beverly and her husband Laurence are hosting a drinks party in their suburban home and their guests – Tony, Angela and Sue – are subjected to Beverly’s desire to be an exemplary hostess. Big dresses and pineapple and cheese nibbles are guaranteed in this comedy of 1970s Middle England. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street Haverhill, CB9 8AR 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk

24-Mar Somewhere In England This play centres on the day the American Air Force pulled into town and changed the course of history, both locally and nationally. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 25-Mar Russell Kane Right Man, Wrong Age’. Are you 16-yearsold, yet feel 21? Are you 40, but tragically faking 25? Or maybe you’re full-on 80 years, with the heart of three oxen and the sex drive of a bonobo chimp. Don’t worry: this is normal. No one is ever the ‘right’ age - it’s is the beauty and the curse of being a real person. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 30-Mar Frogs and Snails and Teddy Bear Tales Weaving together tales of the seasons, come and enjoy the inventive puppetry, original music and gentle humour of this delightful production, specially designed for 3 to 7 year olds. Children are invited to bring a teddy bear to share the performance. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 30 Mar - 2 Apr Invincible Over the course of a disastrous evening of olives, anchovies, Karl Marx and abstract art, class and culture collide where the consequences are as tragic as they are hilarious. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33

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SHOWING THIS SPRING

at High Lodge, Thetford Forest

AN EPIC ROMANCE AND A BRAND NEW COMEDY

Nr BraNdoN, SuFFolk

Thursday 30 June Saturday 2 July

RUDIMENTAL PAUL HEATON + SPECIal guESTS & JACQUI ABBOTT Friday 1 July + SPECIal guESTS JAMES BAY + SPECIal guESTS

Sunday 3 July

SIMPLY RED + SPECIal guESTS

Mon 29 Feb – Sat 5 March

FLARE PATH

Wed 30 March – Sat 2 April

INVINCIBLE

BOX OFFICE 01284 769505 BOOK ONLINE www.theatreroyal.org

@TheatreRoyalBSE

Suffolk Carpet Weavers Visit our new showrooms at Top Street, Martelsham IP12 4RB LARGEST RANGE of Qualities and Colours in 80/20 Twist Piles in East Anglia. LARGEST RANGE of Bleach cleanable stain resistant carpets at affordable prices. Take advantage of our patterned custom made Axminster range in any colour or design – minimum quantity 20 square metre Plus LARGE SELECTION of hand made 100% wool rug in stock.

01394 610202 www.suffolkcarpetweavers.com

Tickets: 03000 680400 Buy online/info: forestry.gov.uk/music


1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 31 Mar - 2 Apr A Night of Pinter Three plays in one; Mountain Language, Party Time and One for the Road. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 31-Mar Broadway Live presents: Shrek the Musical Make room for ogre-sized family fun as the greatest fairy tale never told comes to life in a whole new way in this breath-taking Broadway musical adaptation of the hit movie Shrek! Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org

St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 16-Mar Martin Harley And Daniel Kimbro Martin Harley is a supremely talented acoustic roots and blues guitarist, singer and songwriter with a burgeoning global reputation. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 18-Mar The Bon Jovi Experience ‘The Bon Jovi Experience’ is an outstanding tribute to Bon Jovi. They are the only Bon Jovi tribute band in the world to have actually played and shared a stage with Jon Bon Jovi himself! Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

MUSIC 4-Mar The Sensational 60s Experience This is the must see 60s extravaganza for all 60s fans. For one night only all the hits performed by five of the most popular artistes of the 60s. Ipswich Regent, Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

19-Mar Honey & The Bear ‘Honey & The Bear’ are a roots inspired duo from Suffolk. Their softly interweaving vocal harmonies and foot stomping rhythms combine elements of Folk, Americana, Country, Blues and whatever else takes their fancy. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org

5-Mar A Night of Madness with Big 10 Back by public demand the fantastic Big 10 playing The Specials, Madness, Bad Manners, Dexy’s Midnight Runners and many more plus Paul Trinder & guest DJs playing soul, Motown and old skool disco. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk

19-Mar And Finally... Phil Collins Now in their eighth year together this truly amazing eleven piece band which includes the ‘And Finally Horns’ faithfully re-create all the classic hits from the Phil Collins and Genesis timeless back catalogue. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk

7-Mar Leona Lewis Following the release of her new studio album ‘I Am’, Leona announces details of her upcoming 2016 UK tour, her first UK tour in three years. Ipswich Regent, Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich IP4 1HE. 01473 43310. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

19-Mar Suffolk Sinfonia Spring Concert The name’s Bond. Rupert Bond. He conducts the Sinfonia Spring Concert with a licence to thrill. From Russia with Love we have Rachmaninov’s First Symphony, but beware Dvorak’s evil Water Sprite. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk

8-Mar La Boheme It’s Christmas Eve in Paris. A young poet, an artist and a philosopher are celebrating in their flat. Then comes a knock at the door, a lost key and an accidental touch of cold hands in the dark…and so begins one of the greatest romances of all opera. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 11-Mar The Magic of the Bee Gees This fabulous authentic production ensures the Gibb brothers’ incredible legacy of classic hit songs is well and truly ‘Stayin Alive’. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 11-Mar First Ladies of Song This concert will feature some of the greatest songs ever written, and the stories behind them, including: Big Yellow Taxi, You’ve Got A Friend, You’re So Vain and more. Marina Theatre, The Marina Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 15-Mar The Poozies The first all-female folk band celebrates 25 years on the road. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 17-Mar Songs From The Silver Screen Sit back, relax and enjoy a live music and film extravaganza from masterpieces including Pulp Fiction, The Breakfast Club, The Lion King and more. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury

21-Mar Peter Andre The tour will see Peter Andre backed by his live band that can effortlessly mash-up swing with fresh versions of his older hits and other pop classic. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 23-Mar Cascade of the Decades Following in the footsteps iconic programmes such as The Old Grey Whistle Test, Top of the Pops and Later with Jools Holland, comes ‘Cascade of the Decades’ – a musical journey through the history of popular music. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 27-Mar The Tigerlilys Present A Musical Spectacular An evening of glitz and glamour showcasing the greatest song and dance numbers from the wonderful world of musical theatre. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 16 Feb - 19 Mar Derek Morris Colours are chosen to convey mood and are often used singly against neutral grounds to help the viewer to re-engage with the intensity of hue in our colour saturated world. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 www.newcut.org 12 Mar - 18 Apr Watercolour The exhibition will include demon-

strations from members of the Pure Watercolour Society, information on framing and conservation and a look at some very different contemporary artists. Sea Pictures Gallery, Wells Lane, Clare, CO10 8NH. 01787 279024 www.seapicturesgallery.com 24-Mar The River Waveney Trust Presents: A Talk by Graig Ralston Craig’s tale of satellite-tracking Wally the Whimbrel touches a nerve as he recounts the moment he released Wally into the impenetrable darkness of an early spring night sky with a satellite tracker strapped to his back. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 27-Mar Capturing The Moment Colin Sirkett explores the deconstruction of the photograph through drawing and painting inspired by nature, architecture and historic monuments from travels locally and internationally. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 6-Mar Vintage & Makers Market The Great British Vintage Market – a slice of shopping fun with a kicked-back and relaxed atmosphere – over 50 quality vintage traders from across East Anglia. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR 01728 688 303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk 15-Mar The History Of The Norfolk Wherry A talk by Archivist Mike Sparkes of the Norfolk Wherry Trust covering a journey through time, the evolution of a small rowing vessel of the 18th century to the 40 ton wherry Albion still sailing today. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 20-Mar Stowmarket Half Marathon The perfect half marathon in rural Suffolk countryside, is open to all entrants aged 17 years or older. Hall Orchard, 1 Brettenham Road, Buxhall, IP14 3DL 27-Mar All About Dogs Dog shows, entertainment and shopping. Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich IP3 8UH AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 25-27 Mar Southwold Fine Art and Antiques Fair Suffolks most prestigious antiques fair with over 50 dealers. Open 11am - 5pm each day. Admission £4. Saint Felix School, Southwold, IP18 6SD 26-27 Mar Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair An antiques and vintage fair with approx 30 dealers, held on the last weekend (Sat & Sun) of every month. Open from 9.30am till 4pm. Free parking. The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX. 01449 740601 27-28 Mar Clare Antiques Fair A great collection of antique and vintage dealers from all over the region. Clare Town Hall, Market Hill, Clare, CO10 8NN 07869 332245 27-Mar Risby Hall Antique and Collectors Fair With up to 53 tables selling, furniture, silver, tools, clocks, linen, jewellery and much more. 9.30am - 4pm. Entry £1. Risby Village Hall Aylmer Close, Risby, IP28 6RT 01787 280267

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W&M SMITH

March this year is a very busy month with several dates to remember. March 1st is St David’s Day and at W & M Smith we have silk daffodils in abundance, single stems, bunches and potted. Plenty to choose from. With the weather being so mild the daffs in your garden may well be over but artificial flowers have improved so much in recent years, you can hardly tell the difference between fake and real. A few days later on the 6th March is Mothering Sunday. No Mum deserves to be forgotten and The Pightle Barn is where you will find that little something a bit different from the norm to give as a gift. Or if a gift voucher is the easy option these are available too for any amount you wish to spend. But still more is happening this month when

the Irish out there celebrate their big day on March 17th with St Patrick’s Day. For this we stock a range of decorations, balloons, banners, napkins, cake decs etc.

at home however much you talk to them, a range of silk pot plants are in stock, including orchids, geraniums, pansies, lavenders, cyclamen as well as herbs and ivy.

Before March ends, the clocks spring forward an hour and Easter comes along. The range of Spring items on offer at W & M Smith is as always one not to be missed. Chickens either fluffy, clockwork, ceramic, resin, fabric or feathered. We have them all available. Bunny rabbits are not forgotten neither are little ducklings or lambs.

But the Pightle Barn is bursting at the seams with loads of other goodies as well. Baskets, terracotta flower pots, galvanised containers, candles, ribbons, glass vases, napkins, cellophane bags and rolls, sugar craft items, tissue, balloons, banners, cardboard and wooden letters, decoupage papers and glues……….

Flower wise we offer a range which is said to be the largest in the area. For the spring season you can find not only daffodils but tulips, anemones, snowdrops, forsythia, blossoms, crocus, hyacinth, muscari, pussy willow, catkins, iris and the list goes on. If you struggle to keep plants alive

A real aladdin’s cave is what so many of our customers refer to the barn as. So come along and see for yourself what is tucked away in this quiet corner of Middlewood Green. Look forward to seeing you soon


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

Easter Ornaments

Floral Displays

Candle Holders

Pot Plants

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


INGATESTONE HALL Hall Lane, Ingatestone, Essex CM4 9NR

(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.) 16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Sunday, Wednesday and Bank Holiday afternoons (Noon – 5 p.m.) from Easter until the end of September

Adults - £7 * Pensioners - £6 Children (over 5) - £3

Guided tours available for groups at other times by prior appointment.

FORTHCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS March 19 Concert - THE STONDON SINGERS 7.30 p.m. April 30 Concert - JACKIE PITTMAN 7.30 p.m.

For more information, see our website:

www.ingatestonehall.com

Tel. 01277 353010

Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk

ph i l o m e n a

invite you to a

FAIRTRADE EVENING

THURsday 3RD MARCH

6.45pm -9pm...

at quadrant

220 Moulsham St, Chelmsford CM2 0LS

TICKET

£7

Price includes Fairtrade curry & dessert (from 6.45pm)

Attended by the Mayor of Chelmsford

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE...

• Presentation by tea farmer

Stockists for:

Patrick Kaberia Muthaura from the Michimikuru Tea Company in Kenya The impact of Fairtrade • Meet the Fairtrade Foundation • Fairtrade wine tasting • Fairtrade hamper raffle and more!

Annette Gortz - Basler - Casamia Robell - Sahara - Crea - Apanage Repeat - Backstage

BOOK EARLY...

Open 10am - 5 pm Monday - Saturday

Tickets available from quadrant Customer Services (1st floor) or email:

01277 355922 70 High Street, Ingatestone CM4 9DW

events@chelmsfordstar.coop to reserve your place!


a hidden treasure One of Essex’s best kept secrets is its beautiful villages. Scattered throughout the county and nestled in the countryside between busy towns, the villages often feature historical attractions, independent retailers and some of the most sought after property in the region. And Ingatestone is no exception…

ESSEX

INGATESTONE

Located between Brentwood and Chelmsford, Ingatestone offers the best of both worlds. Its quaint high street has plenty of retailers, pubs and restaurants to keep visitors and residents entertained yet countryside and commuter links are within close proximity. A must-see for any visitor is Ingatestone Hall. Located one mile from the village, the Hall retains much of its original Tudor appearance and is surround by 10 acres of gardens. The house and gardens are open from 12pm – 5pm on Wednesday, Sunday and Bank Holiday afternoons from Easter until the end of September. During this time, visitors are able to tour the eight principle rooms containing paintings, furniture and memorabilia. www.ingatestonehall.com If you’re planning on just visiting make sure you stop by the village of Mountnessing, which features a restored windmill dating back to the time of George III and gastro-bistro pubs The Plough and The George and Dragon (our editor’s, personal favourite!). Margaretting is an ideal location for those planning an overnight stay. Home to the Best Western Ivy Hill Hotel and a number of good pubs, the village is the perfect base for exploring Ingatestone, surrounding villages and Chelmsford. If it’s Essex life you seek, a short 10-minute car journey will bring you to the town of Billericay. Popular with families and commuters, the town is home to a busy high street with national retailers, independent stores and plenty of places for a bite to eat. At night, especially at the weekend, the town’s bars and pubs come to life. Start with tapas and drinks at Harry’s Bar, before partying the night away at Reids. If you prefer the quiet life, Billericay is home to Lake Meadows, a beautiful park offering fishing, bowling, cricket, crazy golf and children’s play area. Don’t miss the Easter Boat Race!

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What’s on in Essex THEATRE & SHOWS 1-5 Mar Legally Blonde Elle Woods can handle anything. So when her boyfriend, Warner, dumps her she decides to follow him to Harvard Law School and win him back. With the help of her new friends and her trusty chihuahua Bruiser, she learns that you can be both smart and fashionable. ‘Legally Blonde’ is so much fun it shouldn’t be legal! Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 4-26 Mar Much Ado About Nothing Filled with mistaken identities, deceptions and misunderstandings, ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ is Shakespeare’s most riotous comedy, and Beatrice and Benedick are his wittiest lovers. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 5-Mar The Little Match Girl A magical and mischievous twist on this well known tale, complete with puppetry, Christmas carols, and audience interaction. This is a joyful retelling of a winter classic. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 7-12 Mar Flare Path Set in 1942, against a backdrop of heartache and quiet bravery, ‘Flare Path’ paints an evocative portrait of life in wartime Britain for the RAF bomber crews, their wives and sweethearts, who were left awaiting their return. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 8-9 Mar The Birthday Party A shabby boarding house in a small English seaside town. An elderly couple take care of a solitary guest, who rarely ventures out. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 8-12 Mar Copenhagen In this incisive drama the two men meet in a situation fraught with danger in hopes of discovering why we do what we do. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road. Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 11-Mar The Noise Next Door Get ready for a night of mind-blowing songs, jaw-dropping characters and side-splitting punchlines from the undisputed masters of off-the-cuff comedy. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea. SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 14-19 Mar Derren Brown: Miracle Back by phenomenal demand, following his previous sell-out tour, the multiaward winning acknowledged master of psychological illusion returns to the Cliffs

Pavilion with his most provocative show yet, Derren Brown: Miracle. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 15-19 Mar Bugsy Malone It’s 1929 and Dandy Dan’s gang terrorise the town with new weapons, splurge guns, giving them an upper hand against his rival, Fat Sam who runs a local speak easy. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 16-19 Mar Sleeping Beauty ‘The Sleeping Beauty’ takes its origins from the classic fairy tale and is set to the ma jestic music of Tchaikovsky; the bewitching story of splendour, fairies, magic spells, spellbinding visions, enchanted forests, and a kiss. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 17-Mar Lee Nelson He headlined Glastonbury with Kanye West and bribed Sepp Blatter at FIFA’s headquarters. Now he’s extending his sell-out tour into 2016. Catch Lee Nelson at his absolute best…live and unleashed. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 17-Mar An Evening of Dirty Dancing Now in its 6th record-breaking year, the original concert celebration of the iconic music from the multi-award winning soundtrack to Dirty Dancing. A high energy emotional rollercoaster with breath-taking choreography and buckets of nostalgia. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 18-Mar Whitney Queen of The Night A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road , Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 18-19 Mar Blackout Inspired by the true story of a young offender from Glasgow who had committed a violent crime, Blackout is a hard-hitting play about getting bullied, fighting back, trying to make a name for yourself, turning vicious, doing something stupid, losing everything, and finally finding your way again. Mercury Theatre Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 19-Mar The Circus of Horrors Featuring some of the greatest and bizarre circus acts on earth, including sword swallowers, knife throwers, balancing acts, aerialists, strong men, acrobats, contortionists, illusions designed by Simon Drake and much

more. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 20-Mar Spartacus Grigorovich’s Spartacus was created at the Bolshoi in 1968, and has since remained the Russian company’s signature ballet. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 21-26 Mar The 39 Steps Follow the incredible adventures of our handsome hero Richard Hannay, complete with stiff-upper-lip, British gung-ho and pencil moustache as he encounters dastardly murders, double-crossing secret agents, and, of course, devastatingly beautiful women. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 22-Mar The Best Thing Step into the wordless world of Vamos Theatre for this bitter-sweet story of mistaken morals and broken hearts, 45s and beehives, where sexual revolution proves a hard and rocky path to tread. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 25-26 Mar Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales Under the sea, out on the farm and into the jungle, these terrific tales are woven together with live music, puppetry and a whole host of colourful characters from the best-loved titles: Tiddler, Monkey Puzzle, The Smartest Giant in Town and A Squash and a Squeeze. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre. co.uk 25-Mar The Intimate Magic Tour Several years ago the most entertaining magic guy in the world, Paul Daniels, together with his wife, Debbie McGee, toured with a small, intimate, magic show and had so much fun they have decided to do it again. West Cliff Theatre Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 26-Mar Rapunzel Rocks Easter production full of magic, original rock‘n’roll songs, dance, magical sets, fantastical costumes, and lots more beside. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 29-31 Mar 1001 Nights ‘1001 Nights’ collects together some of the greatest folk tales ever told. Here they are re-imagined by Shahrazad – a lively young girl who, torn between her old home in the East and her new life in London, re-tells the extraordinary stories

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Spring Season Highlights:

Kronos Quartet

Bach Collegium Japan The English Concert Sir AndrĂĄs Schiff

Mahogany Opera Group

Hugh Masekela & Larry Willis On sale now:

www.saffronhall.com 0845 548 7650 Saffron Walden Tourist Information Centre

The Hot Sardines ŠLeann Mueller/Decca Records

The Hot Sardines


of her childhood to her new-found friend, who understands not a single word she says. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk MUSIC 3-Mar Lulu The incredible Lulu still has plenty to shout about and is back with another fantastic tour. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 4-Mar Dr.Feelgood Dr. Feelgood continue to be one of the most popular & exciting live rhythm and blues acts in the world. Princes Theatre Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 4-Mar Sinatra, The Centennial Concert Celebrating one hundred years since the icon was born, from his debut with Harry James in 1939, through the swinging golden years during the sixties, to his final goodbye in 1994, the magic of Sinatra is captured perfectly by David Alacey. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 5-Mar Oh! Carol From their humble beginnings in Brooklyn to the dizzying heights of their success in the 50s & 60s the song writing genius of Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield will go down in musical history as one of the most successful partnerships of all time. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 8-Mar The Bootleg Beatles The world’s most famous Beatles tribute band continues to draw critical acclaim from across the globe with their stunning recreation of the greatest songbook of all time. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 10-Mar Shane Filan: Right Here Now Tour 2016 In the wake of releasing his hit album ‘Right Here’ in October 2015, Shane Filan has announced a ma jor indoor UK Tour taking in some of the UK’s best loved venues. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 11-Mar The King Of Pop Get ready to moonwalk the night away at a show who’s star performer ‘Navi’ once earned a standing ovation from Michael Jackson himself. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 11-Mar The Rat Pack The Official UK No: 1 Tribute show as voted by The Agents Association of Great Britain, arrives direct From London’s Leicester Square Theatre, The 02 and a Royal Command Performance. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354 www.braintreeartstheatre.com 12-Mar That’ll Be The Day The nations favourite rock‘n’roll variety spectacular features a fantastic line up of knock-out hits from the 50s, 60s & 70s,

plus more side-splitting comedy! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-Mar Unforgettable - A Tribute to Nat King Cole Mark Anthony brings to the stage his exciting show ‘Unforgettable’, celebrating the life and music of one of the world’s greatest entertainers Nat King Cole. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 18-Mar The Blues Brothers Experience Recreating the iconic atmosphere of The Blues Brothers movie, this live ten-piece band will thrill you with a stage show that electrifies, and brilliantly celebrates the memorable performances of Dan Ackroyd and John Belushi! The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 18-Mar The Bee Gees Story Nights On Broadway” present a tribute to the Bee Gees through a fantastic live concert. Princes Theatre, Station Road Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633 www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 18-Mar Heroes and Sweethearts Join the 17 piece Len Phillips Big Band and Singers as they present the tunes of the great swing era. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY 01376 556 354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com 18-Mar The Sensational 60s Experience 2016 This is the must see 60s extravaganza for 2016. Original classics performed by five of the most influential artistes of the 60s. Starring Chris Farlowe, Hermans Hermits, Steve Ellis (Voice of Love Affair) New Amen Corner, Union Gapuk. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road , Clacton-onSea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 22-Mar Jason Donovan: Ten Good Reasons & Greatest Hits By popular demand, star of stage and screen, Jason Donovan is returning to his roots for a solo tour of his debut five times Platinum, 1989 album ‘Ten Good Reasons’ and ‘Greatest Hits’. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 24-Mar Maddy Prior A true legend of British folk music Maddy Prior has built her career on exploring various musical avenues. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 25-Mar Forever In Blue Jeans Enjoy a perfect feast of entertainment this Easter with superb singers, dancers and musicians playing the best in country music and rock ‘n’ roll. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 26-Mar D’Ukes Back for their 6th consecutive year, ever popular ukulele band D’Ukes make a welcome return to the Cramphorn Studio. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 12 Mar - 3 Apr Charles Debenham: ‘And Now You See It’. Oil paintings. The exhibition open hours are Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm. Chappel Galleries, 15 Colchester Road, Chappel, CO6 2DE. 01206 240326 www.chappelgalleries.co.uk 19 Mar - 25 Jun The East London Group ‘Out of the City’ The East London Group became widely known in the 1920s and ‘30s for sparse urban views and street-scenes but also painted extensively outside their native East End surroundings, often in East Anglia. This exhibition will focus on their pictures ‘Out of the City’, offering a rare opportunity to view works unseen since the 1930s. Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6 01702 434449. www.southendmuseums.co.uk 25-Mar Celebrate Landscape In celebration of 200 years since John Constable painted ‘Wivenhoe Park’, this year’s open exhibition theme is Landscape. The competition is open to everyone, all mediums of artwork, and all types of landscape. University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ SPECIAL EVENTS 4-Mar I Spy Blue Coats: Policing Essex in the 19th and 20th centuries by Maureen Scollan This talk will look at such 19th century practices, and also examine 20th century innovations such as the employment of women. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 12-Mar Barleylands Farmers Market Enjoy picking up delicious food and handmade treats for the weekend from our Farmers’ Market. This is a great opportunity for you to buy local handmade goods from farmers and small businesses. Free entry. 8.30am - 12.30pm. Barleylands Farm, Barleylands Road, Billericay, CM11 2UD 12-20 Mar Pansy and Viola Festival This is the garden centre’s 13th Viola and Pansy Festival. You can cast your vote for your Festival Favourites for the chance to win a £50 Meadow Croft voucher. The Meadow Croft Pansy and Viola Festival is the only independent plant trial of its kind in the World. With over 500 different varieties on show. Meadow Croft Garden Centre, Woodham Road Battlesbridge, SS11 7QU AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 5-Mar Maldon Antiques and Collectors Fair 9am – 4pm. Free admission. First Saturday every month. Refreshments available. The Quaker Meeting Hall, Butt Lane, Maldon, CM9 7HD 20-Mar Essex - Halfway House Antiques & Collectables Fair Items such as stamps, ephemera, china, glass, figurines, jewellery, militaria, art deco and lots more. Entry £1, free parking. Southend Arterial Road (A127), Brentwood, CM13 3LL 07780 971214 28-Mar Essex Antiques & Collectables Fair Ingatestone Items such as stamps, barometers, ephemera, militaria, glass, figurines, pottery, coins, jewellery and lots more. Entry £1. 7 High Street, CM4 9ED.

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48 HOURS in CAMBRIDGE

with Emma Thornton, CEO of Visit Cambridge and Beyond

Local to the Cambridge area for more than 30 years, we asked Emma Thornton, CEO of the new Visit Cambridge and Beyond tourism organisation body, for her tips on how visitors should spend 48 hours in Cambridge.

Day 1 Get your bearings Nothing beats a good walk to stretch the legs and soak up Cambridge’s history and atmosphere. Visitors can choose a public two-hour walking tour, or a private tour tailor made to your own interests and timescale. The tours cover the city’s numerous personalities – from Wordsworth, Byron, Coleridge and AA Milne - and visit some of the most impressive sights Cambridge has to offer, such as King’s College and Chapel and the beautiful Queens’ College. Add some of Cambridge’s many excellent museums to your own walking tour – from the Fitzwilliam Museum to the equally fascinating Polar Museum – and you’ll have had your culture fill for the morning. For more information on Official Guided tours of Cambridge call 01223 791501.

Lunch Cambridge is not short of places to have lunch. I am regularly spoilt for choice with numerous pubs,

restaurants, coffee shops etc. We have famous, internationally known restaurants to small, family run businesses, catering for every taste and budget.

Shopping I can easily while away a few hours browsing the amazing variety of shops in Cambridge. Whilst there is always a place and demand for the big brand names, we also have a wonderful range of small independent shops, offering something totally different. You’ll also often find me among the hats and books at the market.

Take a punt Finish your day with a punt on the River Cam, a leisurely way to see the world famous Cambridge College ‘Backs’ from the comfort of a punt. You can choose a guided commentary with a chauffeured punt, or hire your own and try the art of punting yourself.

Dining Cambridge offers restaurants to cater for all occasions from Michelin starred restaurants to an award-winning vegetarian and vegan restaurant as well as some of the best known Italian favourites. Visitors can dine in style in many of the hotel restaurants in the city and when the weather is warmer. I like nothing better than watching the river go by whilst eating alfresco at one of the many riverside eateries. We also have a great range of street food provided by our street traders and on Cambridge Market which operates seven days a week.

Stay

Image Credit: Visit England - Iain Lewis

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Again, when it comes to accommodation Cambridge offers a really wide choice of bed and breakfasts, guest houses, hotels and self-catering accommodation, to suit all tastes and budgets. The city is the perfect destination for individuals, families or groups. And for our visitors that are looking to truly immerse themselves in university life, I think there is no better way than actually staying in one of the University of Cambridge Colleges.


CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Image Credit: Visit England - Iain Lewis

Day 2 Cathedral city of Ely Take to the road and experience some of the Cambridgeshire’s outlying towns and cities, such as Ely, Newmarket and St Neots. A 30-minute drive north of Cambridge, Ely is steeped in history and renowned for Ely Cathedral, a magnificent building with its Octagon Tower which dominates the landscape for miles around.

Dine on Eels The name Ely is derived from the Isle of Eels when the city was surrounded by water and marshland. Eels are still caught in the River Great Ouse, and smoked eels are considered a delicacy and can be bought at Ely’s award-winning Farmers Market. While in Ely, follow the city’s circular public art Eel Trail, taking you past the oldest parts of Ely and down to the beautiful riverside area.

Fen life Famous for their big skies and rich black soil, the Fens stretch for miles and miles and display some of the most dramatic scenery you’ll ever see. To see real life in the Fens, then a visit to Burwell Museum, a 25-minute drive south of Ely, is essential. It recreates scenes depicting life as a farmer, blacksmith, housewife, soldier and many more occupations spanning the years. To plan your trip visit www.visitcambridge.org/beyond-cambridge

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Events y t i r a Ch A Festival of

Champagne Dinner

Sporting Heroes’ Heroes Dinner Sporting Dinner

Fine Dining

A Feast of Champions

White Collar Boxing

Catwalk Cambridge

Fight Night With a Difference

Afternoon Tea The Perfect Ladies’ Lunch

Furlong TheThe FinalFinal Furlong Dinner

B2B Exhibition

Racing Tips Dinner

Down to Business

Raising funds in support of: Arthur Rank Hospice Charity

making every moment count

Roar With Laughter Comedy Night

Amateur Boxing No Punches Held Here

The Midas Touch


With a great range of bikes, cycle accessories and a fully stocked workshop, we can provide for all of your cycling needs! Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am - 5.30pm

T: 01223 315845

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Discover a world of Computing A very different day out in Cambridge for all the family.

Centre for Computing History Cambridge CB1 3EW

www.ComputingHistory.org.uk


Leather Cambridge

ate by

Nomin

11th Friday 2016 March

PARK & RIDE HEROES

NOMINATE YOUR HERO

THE SPECIALIST LEATHER SHOP

LARGE SELECTION OF LEATHER GOODS...

Between the 4th February and 11th March 2016 Park & Ride and Cancer Research UK are asking you to nominate your hero – let them know how special they are to you.

• PURSES & WALLETS • COMPUTER BAGS • TRAVEL GOODS • BRIEFCASES • HANDBAGS • SUITCASES

Visit www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ parkandride to download your Hero card. Please return your completed cards to any of the 5 Park & Ride sites to help us support Cancer Research UK. After the 11th March, Stagecoach will be collecting all the cards up and designing them into graphics for display inside some of the buses, so next time you use Park & Ride you might just find a message that has been written for you.

Go on, nominate your Hero Working in partnership:

QUALITY REPAIR SERVICE Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm 1 SUSSEX STREET, CAMBRIDGE

01223 312 971

FAmIly TRAIl AND CRAFT SESSIONS AT pETERBOROugh CAThEDRAl

ExplORINg EASTER DROp-IN 4, 5, 7 & 8 ApRIl 2016 11.30Am - 3.00pm

Discover the Easter story through colour and craft Visit parts of the story and collect things to make your own Easter wristband or necklace. In the New Building, make Easter-inspired crafts to take home: paint a stained glass window, make a miniature Easter garden and decorate an Easter-egg candle.

COSTS

FREE trail and wristband. Other crafts, £3 per person. Children and adults of all ages welcome. No need to book. Info: 01733 355307 or hla@peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk


What’s on in Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 28 Feb - 6 Mar Footlights Following the sell-out of success of 2015, Cambridge ‘Footlights’ are back by popular demand with two dates of hilarious new comedy! Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 1-5 Mar The Herbal Bed ‘The Herbal Bed’ is a moving and uplifting play that provides a beautiful evocation of life in Shakespearian England, based upon real events from Stratford-Upon-Avon. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 2-5 Mar The Madwomen in the Attic Featuring Jane, the woefully under-qualified group leader, Tony, who finds sexual gratification in Channel 4 documentaries, Grace, her warden, who sings karaoke every Friday night, Isabel, whose growing baby bump is struggling to fit behind the Tesco till and Helen, who lives in the hall on the hill and always arrives with paint on her fingers. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 3-5 Mar Murmuring Judges ‘Murmuring Judges’ takes a look at the inner workings of a bleak justice system. Our prisons are full. Our police don’t care. And our judges don’t listen. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 5-Mar WOW: Women of the World Cambridge ‘WOW - Women of the World’ is a festival of talks, debates, music, film, comedy, performance and conversations that celebrate the talents of women and girls from all walks of life and all parts of the world. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 6-Mar My Pet Monster and Me Brought to life by acclaimed Blunderbus Theatre, this is a very funny show especially for little monsters and their grown-ups. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 6-Mar Speakeasy Each Speakeasy features two talented feature poets, some from Cambridge and some from further afield, as well as an open poetry slam where anyone can sign up at the start of the night to perform their poetry, and compete for the title of Speakeasy slam winner. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 7-12 Mar Rehersal for Murder

Bill Kenwright presents a new production from the pen of legendary awardwinning writing team Levinson & Link, whose work includes the mystery series Murder, She Wrote. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 8-Mar Digitopia Digitopia’s visually stunning integration of live dance and digital technology creates a world that defies the usual rules of gravity and physics, where straight lines curve and sound is seen. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 8-9 Mar The Good Person of Szechwan Theatrical Niche re-awakens Brecht’s epic tale with signature jubilance; using ethereal puppetry, physical theatre and object work. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge CB1 1PT. 0845 1962320. www.anglia.ac.uk 9-19 Mar West Side Story Inspired by Shakespeare’s timeless classic, Romeo and Juliet, ‘West Side Story’ transports the star-crossed lovers to the urban slums of New York’s West Side in the 1950s. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 9-Mar Ed Byrne: Outside, Looking In That bloke. You know. The Irish guy. No, not the bald one. The other one. You know him. The one Carol from work really likes. Wait, that might be Jason Byrne. Anyway. Funny chap. Has a new show! Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 10-13 Mar Sarah Millican In the past when you put Sarah Millican outside, she asked things like: ‘Why? Where is the taxi? Do I need a cardie?’ and said things like: ‘There’ll be wasps. I’ve nothing to sit on. Is that poo? Can we go home?’ But things have changed, now she has outside slippers. She can tell a chaffinch from a tit (hey). But she still can’t tell if it’s an owl or her husband’s asthma. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 9-Mar Mark Thomas: Trespass The usual odd mix of theatre, stand up, activism, a dash of journalism, activism and dollop of mayhem. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 10-Mar Fascinating Aida’s Dillie Keane With brand new tunes, grand old favour-

ites, gorgeous songs of love and hilarious songs of utter wickedness, Dillie will break your heart, mend it again and have it sent to the cleaners for pressing. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 11-Mar Rob Delaney Star of the hit Channel 4 comedy Catastrophe, Rob Delaney brings his critically acclaimed Meat tour to venues nationwide. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 11-Mar Ireland’s Call Inspired by true events and spanning three decades, it follows the extraordinary journey of the strong-headed Sean Dempsey, who at the end of WW2 leaves behind his childhood sweetheart Cora and his beloved homeland Ireland, in search of a better life in the Big Apple. The Cresset Bretton Centre, Peterborough PE3 8DX. 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 14-19 Mar Hobson’s Choice Martin Shaw stars as one of the greatest characters in English drama, Henry Horatio Hobson, alongside Christopher Timothy in the much loved comedy Hobson’s Choice. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 14-15 Mar The Women of Troy/Hecabe Traditional morality is distorted in times of war: ties of hospitality are disregarded; generosity gives place to selfishness, greed, ambition and lust in the hearts of the mighty. Against this bleak backdrop of a society corrupted by war, the tragedy of Hecabe is played out in this double bill of Hecabe and The Women of Troy written by Euripidies and translated by Phillip Velacott. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 1962320 www.anglia.ac.uk 17-19 Mar Bugsy Malone With well known songs such as ‘Bugsy Malone’, ‘Fat Sam’s Grand Slam’ and ‘Bad Guys’ and exciting dance routines, this is a massively popular show with young casts everywhere, and a show for audiences of all ages to enjoy. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 18-20 Mar The Wizard of Oz The troupe of talented youngsters are well rehearsed in treading the boards of the West End but this year they are heading for the yellow brick road as they present the classic story of Dorothy and her friends, complete with all of the songs we all know and love. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239.

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www.vivacity-peterborough.com 20-Mar Shh…Bang A delicate dance-theatre performance for children and their adults, playfully exploring sound and silence. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 21-26 Mar The Perfect Murder Eastenders’ Shane Richie and Jessie Wallace star in The Perfect Murder, the hit stage play from the no.1 best selling author Peter James. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 22-Mar Tortoise & the Hare Bringing this much-loved Aesop’s fable to life, ‘Tortoise & the Hare’ is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 25-Mar Comedy Club March 2016 Establsihed way back in 1998, The Cresset Comedy Club is the longest-running in town and still bringing you top quality comedy every month. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 28 Mar - 2 Apr Toast Olivier award-winning actor Matthew Kelly stars in Richard Bean’s brilliantly observed and funny drama. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

ABBA in their prime, the international smash-hit show’s all-star cast has delighted the world with Lycra-tight harmonies and superb musicianship for longer than ABBA during the 70s and 80s. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

Moore Foundation in Hertfordshire. This enormous, four piece sculpture will be sited in front of the Museum, visible to all visitors and those walking down Trumpington Street. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB 01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

23-Mar The Stranglers In March 2016, The Stranglers will head out on a full UK tour which will see them showcase their legendary Black & White album both chronologically and in its entirety plus additional material new and old. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

22-Mar Circuit Unlocks: Daytime Event Circuit Cambridge have organised a series of creative workshops and activities with artists and staff from Wysing Arts Centre and Kettle’s Yard. The events are a great opportunity to socialise with friends, meet new people and learn new skills in a relaxed environment. Ages 15 25. Wysing Arts Centre, Fox Road, Bourn CB23 2TX. 01954 718881 www.kettlesyard.co.uk

25-Mar Country Superstars Experience Each artist not only looks and sounds like the Country Star they portray, these professional performers transform themselves through hours of practice at their craft. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 26-Mar The Simon & Garfunkel Story Using huge projection photos and original film footage, this 50th Anniversary Celebration also features a full live band performing all the hits including ‘Mrs Robinson’, ‘Cecilia’, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, ‘Homeward Bound’ and many more. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com

29-Mar Rumours of Fleetwood Mac This stunning new show takes you on an epic musical journey through changing eras and styles, from the exciting sound MUSIC of the sixties London blues scene right 4-Mar A Passion for Opera through to the staggering commercial ‘A Passion for Opera’ takes you on a success of the 70s and 80s, and beyond. fabulous tour of the operatic and musical Cambridge Corn Exchange, theatre world. Key Theatre, Embank3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE 01223 791791. ment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 5-Mar A Swinging Affair Friends for 30-years, multi award-winning vocalist Claire Martin OBE and legendary saxophonist and vocalist Ray Gelato have combined their love of all things Swing and joined forces for their first show together, ‘A Swinging Affair’. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 10-Mar Keltrix The award-winning Keltrix come to Cambridge Junction. Their live shows are an eclectic mix of foot-stomping electro folk, interwoven with ambient, acoustic moments and others of infectious beats. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 13-Mar Megson Family Folk Show Award-winning folk duo Megson blend their infectious mix of heavenly vocals and lush harmonies into a gentle, entertaining concert specially for pre-school children, featuring children’s folk songs old and new from their ‘When I was a Lad’ album. The Junction, Clifton Way Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 19-Mar Thank You for the Music An all-new, sequin-spangled spectacular! Entertaining the nation for longer than

30-Mar Letz Zep ‘Letz Zep’, the official number one tribute to Led Zeppelin, will be performing songs from this historic album, which is in the top 5 top selling albums of all time. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 30-Mar Joan Packed with guts, heart and live music, ‘Joan’ fuses lyrical new writing with drag king cabaret. An earthy story of courage, conviction, hope, survival and love; this is Joan of Arc, quite possibly the world’s first drag king. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 31-Mar Liza Pulman Sings Hollywood A journey through the world of movies in a cavalcade of all time classic Hollywood songs. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

24 Mar - 24 Apr Breath of Fresh Air 2016 ‘Breath of Fresh Air’ is an exhibition celebrating the new and talented contemporary artists that are joining the independent gallery. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646. www.byardart.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 5 & 19 Mar Discover Newmarket The Country Mile Tour Steeping in culture and history enjoy a full day with the knowledgeable tour guides watching some of Newmarket’s 3,000 racehorses exercising on Newmarket’s famous heath. 99 High Street, Newmarket, CB8 8JH 0844 7489200 7-20-Mar Cambridge Science Festival With events from astronomy to zoology, the 2016 Cambridge Science Festival welcomes everyone to explore and discuss science. Various venues, Cambridge 19-Mar Easter Fair A wide range of stalls, refreshements and entertainment for children. 12-4.30pm. Meldreth Village Hall, High Street, Meldreth, SG8 6LX AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 6-Mar Cambridge Pen Show Specialist antique and vintage fountain pens and writing equipment fair with some contemporary pieces. Around 20 -30 dealers. admission is £5. 10am - 4pm. Doubletree Hilton Hotel, Granta Place, Cambridge, CB2 1RT. 0116 275 3310 13-Mar Just Cambridge Antiques and Collectors Fair Come along to a brand new event where you will find a range of antiques and collectables all under one roof for that chance to browse round or find that perfect gift or for one who just likes to spoil one self. Milton Community Centre, Coles Road Milton, Cambridge, CB4 6BL 078250 01809

25-26 Mar Peterborough Festival of Antiques This twice yearly event has now grown into one of the largest showground Antiques Fairs in the country. The event has over 1,700 stalls selling something for everyone. Open Friday general public ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 10am-4.30pm, Sat 9am - 4.30pm. 1 Mar - 30 Nov 2017 Henry Moore’s Hill Entry £5. East of England Showground, Arches (1973) Peterborough, PE2 6XE. For the next two years a monumen01664 812627 tal bronze sculpture by Henry Moore, titled Hill Arches, will be on loan to the Fitzwilliam Museum from the Henry

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Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden

SECRET NORFOLK

NORFOLK

“The Secret Garden was what Mary called it when she was thinking of it. She liked the name, and she liked still more the feeling that when its beautiful old walls shut her in no one knew where she was. It seemed almost like being shut out of the world in some fairy place.”

Life in a Fine County Written by Nicole Ranaweera

This month I take a look at Norfolk’s secret gardens, perfect for enjoying the changing season as we step into Spring… If like me you loved reading The Secret Garden as a child, then you will understand why I am reminded of this book when I visit the Plantation Gardens. Just outside of the city walls, this beautiful place conjures up stories that are longing to be told, and allows an escape from the busy city. Plantation Gardens, Norwich, NR2 3DB (Open all year)

The west coast of Norfolk is vibrant at any time, but seeing lavender grown on a large scale is a complete sensory experience. There is nothing more stereotypically English than when the lavender is in full bloom and the purple fields stretch before you! Norfolk Lavender Gardens, Kings Lynn, PE31 7JE (Open all year)

If you’re looking for somewhere truly idyllic, a visit to Fairhaven’s Woodland and Water garden has stunning scenery at every turn. It’s a delight to visit this magical place and you can’t fail to be absolutely captivated by it. Fairhaven, South Walsham, NR13 6DZ (Open all year)

OTHER SUGGESTIONS… Kett’s Heights, Norwich, NR1 4EZ (Open all year) Bishop’s Garden, Norwich, NR3 1SB (Open on certain dates only) Hindringham Hall, Hindringham, NR21 0QA (Open April - Sept) How Hill Secret Garden, Ludham, NR29 5PG (Open May - Oct) Old Vicarage Gardens, East Runton, NR12 9HN (Open March - Oct) Lake House Water Gardens, Brundall, NR13 5LU (Open all year, 5/7 days)

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Opens Easter 2016 Visit King’s Lynn’s stunning new attraction, which tells the stories of the seafarers, explorers, merchants, mayors, magistrates and miscreants who have shaped King’s Lynn, one of England’s most important medieval port towns, over more than 800 years of history. Enjoy fascinating displays and explore this part of the historic Town Hall building. Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 5DQ Open 7 days per week, 10am - 4.30pm (last admission 4pm) Adults £5, Concessions £3.50, Child £3.50 (under 5’s free) Family ticket (2 adults + all children) £13.50 School groups £4 per pupil (half day), £5 (full day) Tel: 01553 774297 www.kingslynntownhall.co.uk/stories-of-lynn


HOW to SPEND a DAY in KING’S LYNN Whether you’re a local or visiting for a weekend, King’s Lynn is a wonderful destination for soaking up Norfolk’s history and culture. If you’re thinking of spending some time in the historic merchant town, here’s how to make the most of it…

Shop ‘til you drop King’s Lynn is a shopper’s paradise. As you stroll through the cobbled streets you’ll find large brand names at every turn. The Vancouver Quarter is the main hub for national retailers and has established itself as the town’s destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. Throughout the year it holds regular promotions, events and fun days for visitors. If you’re looking for something a little different or a one-off gift, the town has an excellent selection of independent boutiques ranging from clothes and jewellery to crafts and interiors. If you don’t have the cash to splash, you can still spend the day window shopping before retiring to one of the many cafes and tearooms for a bite to eat.

Stories of Lynn

Discover the history King’s Lynn’s maritime past means the town is blessed with beautiful historic buildings, cobbled streets and courtyards. It’s easy to spend an afternoon wandering around and simply admiring the architecture. History buffs should visit the 17th century Custom House overlooking the River Great Ouse and the Guildhalls.

Town Hall

The South Quay area resembles the town’s merchant past and is an attractive space to explore. During the warmer months take advantage of the Quay side restaurants al fresco dining or take a ferry across to the west bank and admire the view of the King’s Lynn’s townscape.

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King’s Lynn Waterfront

New for 2016 – Stories of Lynn Stories of Lynn is a fascinating exhibition, a collection of beautiful artefacts and an extensive archive, that come together to make a special attraction in King’s Lynn’s historic town hall. Visitors can discover the stories of the seafarers, explorers, merchants, mayors, magistrates and miscreants who have shaped 800 years of King’s Lynn’s history. The town hall has been extensively redeveloped to house the attraction, and as the building work draws to its completion, Stories of Lynn is due to open Easter 2016. The exhibition begins in the newly-revealed, and magnificent vaulted structure of the undercroft of the 15th-century Trinity Guild Hall. It demonstrates how Lynn’s extraordinary history still shapes the life of the town today. A timeline of objects immerse visitors into the history of Lynn. An exciting game teaches visitors about the Hanseatic League, a group of powerful trading towns and cities around the Baltic and North seas. Lynn’s rich history as a borough is demonstrated as its most celebrated mayors come to life on the walls, to share their stories with visitors. Children can dress up in mayoral robes, and examine place settings of meals that Lynn’s mayors would have enjoyed in different eras of history. These displays, and many more, make the exhibition a fun and rewarding experience.

Next, visitors will tour the Treasury, a dark and dramatic space designed especially to display King’s Lynn’s historic artefacts. On display will be the King John Cup, a 14th-century drinking vessel, lavishly decorated in gilt and enamel; a very rare example of a secular medieval cup. It will be accompanied by the King John sword and silver maces; magnificent regalia still used to this day in King’s Lynn’s annual mayor-making. The exhibition continues to the Old Gaol House where visitors can learn of the town hall’s history as King’s Lynn’s magistrate’s court and gaol. Interactive exhibits in the restored gaol cells explore the lives, and deaths, of King’s Lynn’s most notorious citizens. An app that provides a fun, interactive accompanying guide to Stories of Lynn will be launched in the summer. The app will be downloadable to all smartphones and tablets, free of charge. Stories of Lynn will be open seven days a week, from 10am to 4:30pm. Tickets will be £5 for adults and £3.50 for concessions and children. King’s Lynn Archive will be open Tuesday to Friday, from 12:30pm to 4:30pm, with last admission at 4pm, and on the first Saturday in the month (excluding public holidays) from 10am to 2pm, with last admission at 1:30pm. There is no charge to visit the King’s Lynn Archive. For more things to do visit www.visitwestnorfolk.com/explore/kings-lynn

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East Anglia’s newest and biggest Steiff shop with a huge selection of over 500 Different bears and animals in stock to suit people aged 0 to 100 and over. Shop open 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 10am To 4pm Sundays and bank holidays. THE

SHOP.COM Garage Lane, Setchey, King’s Lynn, Norfolk. PE33 0BE (next to Beers of Europe) Telephone 01553 812000 website thesteiffshop.com

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Join us at Park House Hotel set in its own grounds on the Royal Sandringham Estate for a truly special holiday experience. For over 25 years we have been providing award winning breaks to disabled guests and their carers who return year after year. SPECIAL OFFER: Until the 31st March 2016 we are finalising bookings for the 2016-2017 tariff period at last years accommodation rates! T&Cs apply. To find out more please contact reception on 01485 543000. You can also visit our website at www.parkhousehotel.org.uk

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Looking for a much needed break? Spend some time with us at All Hallows where it is Pastoral ... Prayerful ... Peaceful ... OUR QUIET DAYS IN 2016 INCLUDE:

We have Guesthouse Accommodation: We are an Anglican Religious Community offering guest accommodation for retreat, rest, reflection and renewal. Visit us at our Ditchingham Convent or in Norwich, adjacent to the Shrine of Mother Julian. Guided retreats, spiritual direction, or just a listening ear are some of the services available during your stay.

13th February Opening a New Door As we begin Lent it is good to open doors of various kinds: cleaning behind cupboard doors, opening doors to new ideas and a new way forward, a discovery deeper into ourselves and others. Come and explore what is behind a door for you… Cost £12 19th March Lent Quiet Day A preparation for Holy Week. This event includes talks and silence to help you reflect on the meaning of the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Cost £12

Ditchingham, Norfolk NR35 2DT Telephone: 01986 892749

www.all-hallows.org Charity Reg No: 230143

WYMONDHAM MUSIC FESTIVAL 2016 Wymondham Music Festival Reg Charity no 1081375

FESTIVAL FORTNIGHT

FRI 1 JULY - SAT 16 JULY

Saturday, 26th March 2016

EASTER CRAFT, FOOD & GARDENS MARKET Market Place and Exchange Street, Harleston, IP20 9AD 9.30am - 3.30pm ■ 25 stalls selling gorgeous crafted and hand-made items, plants and garden furniture ■ Locally-produced food and drinks to eat out or take home ■ Street entertainments FREE PARKING

FIND US ON:

FESTIVAL OFFICE T. 01953 333500 wymfest.org.uk

EASTER WINDOW DISPLAY Come and see the inventive window displays and tell us which you like best on Harleston’s Future Facebook Page or Streetlife.


What’s on in Norfolk THEATRE & SHOWS 3-5 Mar The Importance of Being Earnest Nearly 140 years since Wilde himself graduated from Oxford University, this production will examine the legacy Wilde, Waugh, the Aesthetes and the Bullingdon club have left on the Arcadian city. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 9-Mar Russell Howard: Work in Progress Join Russell Howard, one of the UK’s funniest and most successful comedians, as he tries out brand new material. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 9-Mar Ross Sutherland: Standby for Tape Back-up After a hard-drive crash and a near death experience, Ross Sutherland found himself house-bound with only one thing for company: an old videotape that once belonged to his granddad. The true story of one man’s journey into synchronicity and madness. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 10-Mar Pocket Dream This is Shakespeare’s classic tale of mishaps, misunderstandings, magic and lovers lost in the woods condensed into an hour of fantastic theatre. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 11-12 Mar Mark Thomad: Trespass ‘Trespass’ carries on from where Mark’s previous show 100 Acts of Minor Dissent left off.It is his usual odd mix of theatre, stand up, activism, a dash of journalism, activism and dollop of mayhem. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 14-19 Mar King Charles III Directed by the Almeida Theatre’s artistic director Rupert Goold, this play explores the people underneath the crowns, the unwritten rules of our democracy, and the conscience of Britain’s most famous family. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 15-19 Mar Joseph Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph (Joe McElderry), his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

EDITOR’S CHOICE

EASTER CRAFT, FOOD & GARDENS STREET MARKET 26 MARCH Harleston has organised an Easter Craft, Food & Gardens Street Market on 26 March with stalls selling crafted and hand-made items, plants, garden items and locally produced food and drink to eat out or take home. An Easter Bonnet Parade at 3pm is open to all children and adults. For just £1 take part in an Easter Egg Hunt (proceeds to East Anglia Air Ambulance). Between 26 March - 10 April track down decorated Easter Eggs displayed in shops and windows to enter a prize draw for a Winners Easter Egg. See Harleston’s Future Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ HarlestonsFuture/ 17-19 Mar Practice Makes Perfect Two plays, two rehearsals, two murders. By Lee Flewitt. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 18-26 Mar The Dresser Based on the author’s own experiences as dresser to Sir Donald Wolfit, this bracing, heartbreaking drama is an elegy to a by-gone era. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 19-Mar Richard Herring: Happy Now? In his twelfth solo stand up show, Richard examines whether we are can ever hope to be or are meant to be truly content. If we were never unhappy would happiness. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB . 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk

24-26 Mar Love and Money ‘Love and Money’ is a concoction of wit and tragedy, of debt and desire; and questions, in today’s materialistic world, what exactly is happiness? Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 24-26 Mar Tap Factory ‘Tap Factory’ will amaze and delight the audience, using many genres of dance in a contemporary urban setting. Tap Factory is urban percussion, macho tap dancing, athletic dance and is a breathtaking, show stopping sensation of a show. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 26-Mar Jenny Éclair: How to be a Middle-aged Woman Semi–bearded and suffering from outbreaks of gout and hysteria, Eclair puts middle age under the microscope and decides whether to laugh, cry or buy a dachshund! Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 27-Mar Ireland’s Call A new and exciting musical adaptation of the acclaimed show Essence of Ireland, following the journey of Sean Dempsey from his beloved Ireland to a new life in America. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL . 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 27-Mar Ship of Fools Comedy Club Specialising in the best of rising comedy talent, you can expect a wide and varied bill of acts and when you see them on the TV you can say that you saw them here first! The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU 01328 710193. www.granarytheatre.co.uk 27-Mar Railway Children E. Nesbit’s well-loved tale is brought to life in this new adaptation by Woolford and John. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 28-Mar Bear Behaving Badly Come and laugh along with Nev, boogie with Beatrice and sing along with Blue Peter’s Barney Harwood . Joining them is Crazy Keith, Aunt Barbara and Mr Prank in an adventure full of mischief, laughter and mayhem! Maddermarket Theatre, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 29 Mar - 2 Apr Hairspray It’s Baltimore, 1962 where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. Tracy’s audition makes her a local

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star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for equality, bagging local heartthrob Link Larkin along the way! Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich. NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 30-Mar Rogues on the Road Blowers and Backers are back with ‘Rogues on the Road’ - a brand new show crammed full of even more wonderful reminiscences and anecdotes from two extensive careers spent broadcasting around the globe. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 30-Mar Tarts, Toffs and Traitors Enjoy a light lunch then relax as Three’s Company introduce you to a lively anthology of Tarts, Toffs and Traitors! Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre PE32 1UD. 01760 755800. www.westacretheatre.com 31-Mar An Evening with Ian Waite & Camilla Dallerup Join Ian Waite & Camilla Dallerup from BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing for an intimate evening of Dance, Songs and Stories from their time on the show. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 31 Mar - 2 Apr DNA A chilling drama about a group of teenagers brought together because of something that goes horribly wrong. However, when their web of deceit starts to unravel, their new found sense of solidarity begins to crack. A black comedy about morality and the lengths we go to to stay in with the crowd. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk MUSIC 5-Mar The Drfiters A guaranteed musical extravaganza with a world-class band, production and some very smooth moves. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 5-Mar Parton Sings Parton This wonderful show takes you back in time to the hills of East Tennessee where the Parton family were all ‘born and brought up. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 10-Mar Meatloaf Greatest Hits Tour Steve Steinman returns with his epic adventure delivering the best of the best from Meat Loafs incredible catalogue of albums. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 11-Mar 1930’s Evening – A ‘De-Lovely’ An evening full of ‘Fascinatin Rhythmn’ David Rees and Julie Hewitt invite you to sip a cocktail, sample the canapes, and step back in time to the vivacious and flirtatious thirties, in a sophisticated soiree of song from the greats of the era. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk

12-Mar Natty A gifted musician, poet and producer, Natty’s soulful melodies, acoustic guitar and references to roots culture make him an artist not to be missed. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 18-Mar Mick Flannery A rare opportunity to hear this young, very successful Irish singer/songwriter. His rich, melodic voice is captivating and his song-writing emotive, romantic and hopeful. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 20-Mar The Ken Dodd Happiness Show 2016 Happiness Show for all the family, with a supporting company, non-stop gags and a selection of songs presented in his uniquely versatile style: everything from ballads to grand opera. Norwich Theatre Royal , Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 20-Mar Story of The Bee Gees – Nights On Broadway You can’t see the Bee Gees anymore, but you can see ‘Nights on Broadway’ and still experience a concert of the incredible music written by the brothers Gibb. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 25-Mar That’ll Be The Day The nations favourite rock ‘n’ roll variety spectacular features a fantastic line up of knock-out hits from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus more side-splitting comedy! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 26-Mar Back To Bacharach Performed by 3 front singers and a 10 piece live band, a show not to be missed!! Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk

Saumarez Smith. Each of the pieces is unique and has at its core Roman, Anglo-Saxon or Medieval 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 6-26 Mar Ian Houston Ian Houston had his first solo exhibition at Mandell’s Gallery, Norfolk in 1974. After this he bought the sea-going Thames Spritsail Barge “Raybell”(and subsequently gained Master’s Certificate) in order to study sea weather and traditional sail in action. Mandell’s Gallery, Elm Hill Norwich, NR3 1HN. 01603 626892 www.mandellsgallery.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 5-Mar Clean for the Queen To help celebrate Her Ma jesty the Queen’s 90th birthday, Holkham National Nature Reserve will be holding a Clean for The Queen event. There will be two sessions, one in the morning from Wells Beach and the second in the afternoon at Holkham Beach. Holkham Estate, Wells-next- the-Sea, NR23 1AB 01328 800730. www.holkham.co.uk 6-Mar Mothering Sunday Walk Explore the beautiful Spring woodland garden with its predominantly yellow-flowering plants of wild primrose, skunk cabbage and daffodils, as well as wood anemones and camellias on this guided tour. Every Mother receives a primrose. Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, School Road, South Walsham, NR13 6DZ. 01603 270449 www.fairhavengarden.co.uk 10-17 Mar Norwich Fashion Week NFW is now in its sixth year and the 2016 event is set to be bigger and better than ever. Two new shows have been added to the core line-up, all of which will be housed within the city’s vibrant and contemporary building of OPEN, the new official home for NFW16. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1BH. norwichfashion.co.uk

29-Mar Maggie Bell & Dave Kelly An evening with two stalwarts of the British R&B scene, two great voices, two great reputations. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk

11-13 Mar King’s Lynn Fiction Festival The guiding principle, initiated by King’s Lynn’s finest, Tony Ellis and co-founder, the late George MacBeth, is to present some of the best contemporary writers in a congenial and informal setting. 19 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 691661. www.lynnlitfests.com

30-Mar The Three Degrees ‘The Three Degrees’ are an American female vocal group, formed in 1963 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 5 & 28 Mar Norfolk’s Collectors Fair Dealers in glass, ceramics, porcelain, jewellery, retro accessories and more. Admission is free. Open 8am - 3.30pm. Parish Hall, Church Street, Cromer, NR27 9ES. 07501 782821

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 6 Feb - 30 May A Viking’s Guide to Deadly Dragons Originated by Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children’s Books, this touring exhibition will transport you back to the Dark Ages, where Vikings ruled and dragons roamed. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Norwich, NR1 3JU. 01603 493625 www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk

6-Mar Norfolk Snettisham Fleamarket Around 20 stalls selling antiques, collectables, vintage, retro and more! Open 9am - 3.30pm. Refreshments available. 50p entry & under 16’s go free. The Memorial Hall, Old Church Road, Snettisham, PE31 7LX. 014855 43608

1 Mar - 10 Apr New Foundland ‘Newfoundland’ is an exhibition of work by contemporary jeweller Romilly

13-Mar Norwich Antiques & Collectors Fair Every Antique and Collectable and piece of art has a story and past. Range of items. Entry £1. The Hewett School, Hall Road, Norwich, NR1 2PW

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FEATURED PROPERTY DESCRIPTION The Old Mill House was first constructed in 1824 as the Aldeburgh Mill and was subsequently converted into a house in 1902. Two cottages built at a later date adjoin the house which are in separate ownership. The house is constructed in three main sections being the tower, the drawing room and the former Gun Tower which is now in need of full renovation and rebuilding. Internally the property has enormous character with many features including a fully vaulted drawing room with a large open fireplace to one end. The circular central tower provides ever more impressive views from floor to floor. The top floor provides a bedroom with French windows opening out to a balcony that provides arguably the best views within the town of Aldeburgh. The house has enormous potential to extend and improve particularly when looking at the former gun tower which could be extended to create further accommodation with stunning views (subject to the necessary planning consents being obtained).

SITUATION The Old Mill House is a truly iconic property situated in one of the most sought after positions in Aldeburgh. The house is set back on Fort Green, right on the beach with wonderful views over the sea & River Alde The sought after coastal town of Aldeburgh is centrally positioned on the Suffolk Heritage Coastline with superb recreational facilities including sailing and fishing on the coast and River Alde, a number of 18 hole golf courses are in the area including Aldeburgh’s own course. Snape Maltings, the home of the famous Aldeburgh Music Festival is about five miles away and the town benefits from a variety of excellent shops, public houses, restaurants and a cinema.

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