Eastlife February 2016 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

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February 2016

Living life in the East

FEBRUARY 2016

Make the most of where you live Issue 129

THE WEDDING SPECIAL

eastlife would like to thank its

CONTRIBUTORS LIZ JANE MATTOCK Passionate freelance writer GERLA DE BOER Globetrotter foodie KATE CHAUNDY Fab freelance journo & PR consultant 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, Despite being the shortest month of the year, February always seems long to me. To keep my winter blues at bay, I’ve decided to slip into spring mode a little early with ideas for heritage days out, guides on how to make the most of some of the region’s most quaint towns and how to bring a little colour into the home with new season trends. Whether you love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. We’ve got plenty of date ideas and restaurant suggestions. We’ve even got tips on how to choose an outfit! If you’re past the dating days, and are planning on saying “I do” this year, check out our new monthly column from wedding planner Katrina Otter. If that isn’t enough, celebrity chef Ken Hom tells us how to celebrate the Chinese New Year in style at home. Have a great month! Emma Kemsley

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february 7-11 news flash A round-up of monthly news and events 13-17 valentine’s special Love is in the air with our picks for romantic dates and gift guide 19 Say hello to… A brand new monthly feature which highlights some of the best events, days out and places to visit in the region 23-27 Little East Our mummy columnist shares her thoughts on Valentine’s Day and we choose the best half term events 41–45 Food & Drink Celebrate the Chinese New Year in style with TV chef Ken Hom 47 Fashion Image consultant Ruth Essex tells us how to dress right this Valentine’s Day 50-59 Weddings We introduce our new wedding column from planner Katrina Otter, discover this year’s biggest food trends and list spring exhibitions 91-97 Suffolk A 48-hour guide to Beccles and Bungay, plus theatre listings across the county 101-107 Essex Diary dates for Great Dunmow and how to spend an afternoon in Saffron Walden 109-113 Cambridgeshire We explore St Ives and round-up this months events 115-123 Norfolk We celebrate the best of Norfolk independent stores, visit Harleston and list events 125-129 Beds, Bucks & Herts Ready, steady…run; it’s time for the Olney Pancake Race

contents

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the latest news and events from around the region

Mercury Theatre on course to open rebuilt theatre in 2020 The Mercury Theatre, in Colchester, Essex, has announced an £8.8m plan to redevelop its buildings and site, improving and extending audience and production facilities whilst also creating a learning and participation centre that will help to extend its educational and community work. All areas of the building will be fully accessible for the first time. If the project is successful, the new facilities would open in 2020. Under the plans, the Front of House area will be rebuilt and extended, introducing an all-day café bar and creative space. Rehearsal rooms, currently housed in town centre office accommodation, will be replaced with purpose-built and fully accessible facilities. New highly visible on-site spaces for learning and participation work and community use will also be introduced. Subject to public consultation and planning permission, new pedestrian routes will be introduced to connect local historical and cultural offers,

NEWS FLASH

Bringing Brains back to Cambridge Brains Eden, the UK’s largest student computer games festival, is returning to the city for its eighth year. Teams of young games creators from across the UK, Europe and further afield will descend on Anglia Ruskin University’s Cambridge campus, to take part in the four day event, from 24 to 27 June 2016. Brains Eden is produced by Creative Front Cambridgeshire, Anglia Ruskin University’s initiative to stimulate, incubate, grow and further the creative industries in the Cambridge area. Brains Eden’s mission is to match up the next generation of technical and artistic talent from national and international universities with leading games studios, providing a forum for students to showcase their talent and for employers to get to know capable individuals. If your university is interested in taking part or if your company would like to support the festival please email

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Independent Diabetes Trust PO Box 294, Northampton NN1 4XS. www.iddtinternational.org Charity Number: 1058284 Registered Number: 3148360

DanceEast brings back its One Night Stand programme This spring DanceEast is bringing back its One Night Stand programme, bigger and better than before. The first One Night Stand performance is from Sally Marie’s Sweetshop Revolution. I loved you and I loved you tells the extraordinary story of young Welsh composer Morfydd Owen, who died almost 100 years ago in mysterious circumstances at the age of just 26. DanceEast Associate Artist Alexander Whitley returns to the Jerwood DanceHouse once more this February, bringing the preview of Pattern Recognition. In this visually arresting new work, Whitley joins forces with digital artist Memo Akten to explore themes of learning, memory and the technology of artificial intelligence. Brendan Keaney’s personal highlight of the season is the third One Night Stand performance from local Ipswich girl Flora Wellesley-Wesley’s new company Nora. Igor and Moreno round off the fantastic One Night Stand programme with A Room For All Our Tomorrows. This season DanceEast has introduced a loyalty discount which allows visitors to save up to 30 per cent. Full details at www.danceeast.co.uk

Chelmsford Star Searches for its 10th Charity of the Year Local Co-operative Society, Chelmsford Star has embarked on its annual search for its ‘Charity of the Year’ initiative to commence in May 2016. The scheme is now in its 9th year and has raised to date nearly £275,000 for Essex charities. As the Society trades from 49 branches from Braintree to Southend-on-Sea, candidates must be able to demonstrate that their cause would be recognised by customers across all stores and be able to provide collecting tins featured for 150 till points. The submission deadline is the 14 February, after which a shortlist of potential candidates is compiled and the Society’s 850 colleagues are asked to vote on their preference. The name of the charity with the most votes is declared at the annual general meeting on 9 May 2016. The Society and its new partner will then work together on fundraising ideas for the year. www.chelmsfordstar.coop/community/charity-year

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Boost to Cambridge tourism with the launch of Visit Cambridge and Beyond A new Destination Management Organisation (DMO) for Cambridge and the surrounding area has launched to showcase the very best of the Cambridge region and to encourage visitors to stay longer. The DMO, fully operational from 1 February 2016 is an innovative business-led public/private sector partnership with the aim of increasing investment and support to the tourism industry. One of the core strategic focuses will be to increase the value the city and surrounding area derives from tourism, encouraging visitors to extend their stay and travel beyond Cambridge itself. www.visitcambridge.org

Congham Hall launches new herb-based treatment for Year of the English Garden Congham Hall Hotel in Norfolk will mark the Year of the English Garden 2016 with the official launch of a brand-new signature treatment. Exclusively designed by the hotel’s principal product supplier, UK specialist brand Elemental Herbology, The Herb Garden Signature Treatment costs £75. The 75-minute face, back and scalp massage begins and ends with a herbal inhalation, and features rosemary, mint and lavender, handpicked from the hotel’s own plot of 400 varieties of herb. From Easter, the treatment will complement the hotel’s free, self-guided trail, The Magnificent Seven...Norfolk Gardens, which explores some of the best gardens in North Norfolk, from stately homes to nature reserves.

Fitzwilliam by Richard Marshamcut

e-Luminate Cambridge Festival This year the e-Luminate Cambridge Festival will be held from 12-17 February. The Festival also includes a programme of events, such as the popular Trail of Light on 13 February at St Catharine’s College Porter’s Lodge and activities such as the Light Painting workshop taking place 13 February at Anglia Ruskin University. The spectacle of light is free to attend. www.e-luminatefestivals.co.uk

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Inclusive Break at Potters Resort

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Sun 20th Mar 2016 – 1 NIGHT | 2 DAYS

Fri 8th Apr 2016 – 2 NIGHTS | 3 DAYS

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Back to School drinkS incluSive*

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Sun 24th Apr 2016 – 1 NIGHT | 2 DAYS Let us take you back to school on this incredible night of feel good tunes throughout the years.

Fri 6th May 2016 – 2 NIGHTS | 3 DAYS Enjoy a good knees up and celebrate everything British on this weekend of entertainment featuring Potters Theatre Company.

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To book your Break at the UK’s most entertaining Resort with your EXCLUSIVE discount, call 0333 3207 405 and quote ‘EASTLIFE’. www.pottersholidays.com Potters Resort Coast Road Hopton-on-Sea Norfolk NR31 9BX ‘EASTLIFE’ must be quoted at time of booking. *Drinks inclusive from 6pm to close of bars. Exclusions apply. Full booking terms and conditions apply. Prices based on Standard Bungalow accommodation, supplements apply. New bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to promotional rate availability.

Looking for the perfect date for Valentine’s Day this year? Then look no further, as we’ve pulled together some top ideas for everyone across the East of England, no matter your relationship status, to suit both him and her!

LIFESTYLE

Be My Valentine

Written by Amanda French

romantic walk through the woodland and fields. Finally, end your day with a few cosy drinks by the fireplace at The Wicked Lady, Wheathampstead, which is directly opposite. They also serve great food, so if you’re a little peckish, this is the place to tuck in. www.thewickedladypub.co.uk

HEADING OUT IN HERTFORDSHIRE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY?

LOOKING TO SPICE UP YOUR LOVE LIFE?

Start the day with brunch at the famous Waffle House (www.wafflehouse.co.uk/st-albans) in St Albans, carb loading with bacon, banana and tomato waffle or a breakfast waffle stack. Once you’re full of waffle you’ll need to go burn off those calories, so why not head over to Heartwood Forest (www.heartwoodforest.wordpress.com) for a

Head over to Edible Ornamentals in Chawston, Bedfordshire to enjoy their Chilli Afternoon Tea for two. You’ll enjoy chilli infused sweet and savoury treats, with something for the afternoon tea or the chilli fan! It’s priced around £24 for two people. You can even add on a Chilli Tour and Tasting for the real lovers of everything spicy. www.edibleornamentals.co.uk Then it’s time to head over to the Y Spa for a treatment or a spa day. With a large offering of treatments for men, as well as women, this is one to make both members of the party happy. www.yspa.co.uk

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Strapped for cash this year, but wanting to still enjoy a date to remember? In Cambridgeshire there are plenty of cheaper options for dates on this typically expensive day. Meet for a romantic picnic, packed by yourself at home. Don’t forget to include a cold bottle of something fizzy and some glasses to add something extra. Followed by a walk up Castle Mound, you’ll soon be in the mood for love.

Set the mood in Suffolk

Is your date really just a big kid? Head over to Essex for a slice of adventure to suit men and women looking for something a little different. Visit the Secret Nuclear Bunker (www.secretnuclearbunker.com) which was once an actual working bunker and then pop next door to the Rope Runners (www.roperunners.co.uk) in Essex for an exhilarating go on the rope runs and big zip wire. End the day with a romantic visit to Alec’s Restaurant (www.alecsrestaurant.co.uk), to enjoy lobster and fizz.

Old romance in Norfolk Local legend, Jack Valentine, might not be visiting you this year, but in Norfolk there are plenty of date ideas for the celebration of romance. Enjoy a round of golf in the morning at Barnham Broom (www.barnham-broom.co.uk) followed by a visit to their spa for a relaxing treatment. In the evening head over to the Maddermarket Theatre in Norwich to watch Showbitz. Crammed with timeless classics (and a few first encounters) from the world of stage, screen and the charts, join in the romantic journey through the thrills and spills of love and heartbreak, written by some of the world’s greatest songwriters.

Start the day with a visit to the artisan bakery in Southwold, the Two Magpies Bakery (www.twoma gpiesbakery.co.uk) to enjoy some delicious pastries or something larger. Then act like a tourist and pack in a host of activities in the area including a 20-minute tour of the Southwold Lighthouse which is one of Southwold’s most recognisable landmarks. Follow this with a trip on the Southwold Coastal Voyager (www.coastalvoyager.co.uk), one of the most powerful and exciting river cruises. You can take a trip to the seal and wind farm at Scroby Sands, head to Dunwich beach or you can take a three-hour Blyth cruise which will take you through breath-taking scenery. Why not embrace the best of the Suffolk seaside during your Valentine’s Day celebrations by visiting the Southwold Pier? Watch the sun go down over the ocean while enjoying ‘the food of love’ in the candlelit Boardwalk Restaurant, with fresh fish and plenty of platters to share on the menu. Followed by a romantic walk along the pier, this is something everyone will enjoy. www.southwoldpier.co.uk Let us know your Valentine’s Day plans this year, whatever they may be via Twitter @eastmagazines

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

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LIFESTYLE

GIF TS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY From budget busting bargains to big buys, we’ve rounded up the best gifts to buy your loved one (or yourself) this Valentine’s Day

Love bunting £3, Sainsbury’s

Necklace from Orelia Fairytale Collection £15 www.orelia.co.uk

Hervia Comme Des Garcons wallet £82, www.hervia.com

DKNY Saffiano multi coloured tote bag £205, House of Fraser

Sheer Bloom Eau de Toilette £16, Marks & Spencer

Red lace bra £9 Primark

Tisty Tosty special edition bath bomb £3.50, Lush

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Weddings at Woburn THREE UNIQUE VENUES SET IN THE HEART OF THE HISTORIC WOBURN ABBEY ESTATE The Woburn Estate provides a stunning backdrop for weddings and offers three very different venues. From the splendour of The Sculpture Gallery at Woburn Abbey, The Woburn Hotel for classic country weddings, to the fun and unusual Safari Lodge at Woburn Safari Park, weddings held on the Woburn Estate are truly unique. Weddings can be arranged for just 25 up to 250 guests and a dedicated wedding planner will ensure that every wedding is a day to remember.

For further information please call 01525 292172 or email sales@woburn.co.uk or visit www.woburnweddings.co.uk

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SAY HELLO TO... Riverside Nights Neil McGlone, a film researcher and worldwide film festival consultant from Woodbridge, has curated a special programme of film related events at The Riverside for 2016 (www.theriverside.co.uk/programme_100.php). Here’s what’s coming up: AN EVENING WITH MIKE LEIGH Mike Leigh (Abigail’s Party, Secrets and Lies, Mr Turner) will be visiting the cinema on Friday 26 February to kick start the season. Neil will interview Mike on stage following a screening of his film, Vera Drake. The audience will then have an opportunity to ask questions. AN EVENING WITH MARK GATISS Mark shot to fame in the BBC comedy series The League of Gentlemen, and as the writer of Sherlock (he also stars as Mycroft in the BBC series). AN EVENING WITH KIERAN EVANS Kieran's ground-breaking debut film Kelly + Victor (2012) won a BAFTA last year for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer. KEVIN BROWNLOW AND HOLLYWOOD Legendary film historian and Oscar winner Kevin Brownlow will be visiting the cinema to discuss his life in movies and his 1980 Thames TV series, Hollywood. Kevin will regale the audience with stories of his interviews with some of the biggest names in film history (Douglas Fairbanks Jr, Lilian Gish, Frank Capra, Louise Brooks). AN EVENING WITH BEN WHEATLEY The director of Down Terrace, Kill List, Sightseers, A Field in England, the forthcoming adaptation of J.G. Ballard's High Rise starring Tom Hiddleston and the Scorsese produced, Free Fire, starring Brie Larson and Cillian Murphy will be visiting The Riverside. AN INDIAN FILM NIGHT WITH TALVIN SINGH Talvin has worked with the likes of Blondie, Madonna and Björk. He won the coveted Mercury Music prize in 1999. Talvin will perform a live score to a film of his choice. NEIL BRAND AND THE SOUND OF CINEMA Neil will be looking at music in mystery, suspense and horror films. He will be performing some music live on stage, there'll be some light-hearted chat about how music has evolved from the silent horror films to that of today, as well as plenty of clips to enjoy.

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Gracewell of Kentford A care home as individual as you are

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TOP

Spring Days Out for Heritage Fans

Blickling Hall, Norfolk

Blickling Hall is one of the most magnificent country estates in Norfolk. Stroll around the lake, wander the 950 acres of wilderness full of spring blossom or explore the architecture. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling-estate

Wrest Park, Bedfordshire Alongside the estate’s ‘secret gardens’ where visitors can enjoy miles of historic pathways that showcase how landscape gardening has evolved through history, there’s also the opportunity to learn about Wrest Park’s history in the hands-on exhibition on the ground floor of the Mansion House. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wrest-park

Sutton Hoo, Suffolk Sutton Hoo is home to an excavated Anglo-Saxon royal burial site, one of Britain’s most important archaeological finds. The site offers a wild and ancient landscape, learning opportunities with the family, and a café to warm up after a stroll. The property will be celebrating ‘National Cake’ month in February. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo

Shaw’s Corner, Hertfordshire The tranquil gardens are a great place to reflect on the wit and wisdom of playwright, politician and philosopher George Bernard Shaw who lived in the Edwardian villa of Shaw’s Corner for over 40 years from 1906. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/shaws-corner

Audley End House & Gardens, Essex Standing big and proud on the Cambs/Essex border, Audley End House & Garden is a great day out. Explore the Jacobean manor, visit the Victorian Service Wing and Stable Yard, before finishing with tea and cake at the Servants’ Hall Tea Room. www.english-heritage.org.uk

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LITTLE EAST It worked. There was no windswept kiss or declaration of never ending devotion but Matthew and I did become school three legged champions for the next three years and in my book that’s akin to a serious relationship.

MUM’s

THE WORD Welcome to our motherhood column, dedicated to hard-working mums across the region. Laugh and cry as Herts based mummy, step-mum, former Macmillan nurse and frustrated novelist Nicola Sheehan shares her story. I remember the first boy I sent a Valentine to. His name was Matthew and I pursued him so fervently that I broke my wrist whilst hot on his tail playing kiss chase. As Valentine’s Day approached I saw my chance to impress him and finally win his heart. Armed with an empty cereal box, tin foil, scissors and tape I set about creating my masterpiece: a silver heart folded in half to make a card and ‘Be My Valentine?’ written in my finest handwriting. Read more from Nicola at nicolasheehanauthor.wordpress.com

Fast forward to motherhood and, being the author of romantic fiction, I have inevitably raised a die hard romantic who declared his never ending love to the current object of his affection the very day he met her. A few months of wooing and he happily now calls her his girlfriend and has even been lucky enough to receive a kiss on the cheek. Part of his wooing, and his ongoing commitment to the girl of his dreams, is Valentine’s treats.

How times have changed. A card made from things rescued from the recycling bin doesn’t seem to cut it anymore, now it’s all Funky Moonpigs and not a scrap of cursive writing in sight. It doesn’t stop at the card either, apparently a top notch gift is needed; chocolate hearts & cuddly toys are on the list of requirements. I know I could say no, and I’m sure his beloved would be happy with a handmade offering but I’m a sucker for a bit of romance and it’s not like I’m paying for candlelight and three courses for them both in an expensive restaurant. Yet. Anyone know a good loan company?

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Kids for a Quid Bring the kids to the Epping Ongar Railway during the February half term when child fares are just £1!

13,14,17,20,21 February

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.

Don't forget your fares include travel on free heritage buses between North Weald and Epping

www.eorailway.co.uk 01277 365200

@eorailway Epping Ongar Railway

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

FEBRUARY FUN

Written by Nicole Ranaweera

Half term is fast approaching so why not keep the kids entertained with some of these great February events across the East…

FOR UNDER 5S NORFOLK Teddy Bear Express, 13-21 February Bure Valley Railway, Aylsham, NR11 6BW Wroxham, NR12 8UU Join the mascot bear for a week of fun! Free travel for every child when accompanied by a fare-paying adult (max 2 children per adult). www.bvrw.co.uk

SUFFOLK Sid’s Show, 18 February Bury St Edmunds, The Apex, IP33 3FD Join Sid from Cbeebies live on stage in a fantastic fun-filled adventure that’ll knock your socks off! Ages 3+. www.theapex.co.uk ESSEX Wild Wednesday: 17 February Danbury Country Park, Woodhill Road, Danbury, CM3 4AW Make the most of what nature has to offer. Led by rangers, young ones can try making dens and mud pies, wading in the stream, splashing in puddles, kicking leaves, forest craft and finding fish. www.visitparks.co.uk CAMBRIDGESHIRE Farm Activities, 13-21 February Wimpole Home Farm, Wimpole Estate, Royston, SG8 0BW Have a go at becoming a young farmer: try your hand at grooming the donkeys, drive a mini tractor or see how you get on at milking! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpole-estate/things-tosee-and-do/home-farm HERTFORDSHIRE Mister Maker, 20-21 February Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ Come and join your ultimate arts and craft hero, CBeebies’ Mister Maker, for his first ever live theatre tour! www.gordon-craig.co.uk BEDFORDSHIRE The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark, 19 February Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, Lake Street Leighton Buzzard, LU7 1RX Join Plop as he journeys into the night-time world of campfires, fireworks, starry nights and moonlit adventures. www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk

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For Under 10s Norfolk Boggle Wish Bonfire, 13-21 February Hoveton, BeWILDerwood, NR12 8JW The most magical February half term ever! Wrap your wish around a pine cone; close your eyes and blow on it three times… www.bewilderwood.co.uk

Suffolk

Cambridgeshire Morgan & West’s Utterly Spiffing Spectacular Magic Show for Kids, 16 February The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX Witness a mountain of mysterious magic, a hatful of hyper-reality, and of course a truck full of tricks and tea. www.junction.co.uk

Hertfordshire

Hobbies and Adventures, 13-21 February Horringer, Ickworth Estate, IP29 5QE Fun children’s springtime craft activities and games: stories and hot chocolate, plus a den building area and family explorer packs. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Once Upon a Time, 16-18 February Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain, Hertford, SG14 1DT Celebrate National Storytelling Week and be inspired by some of the stories in the collectionfrom mummified hands and feet to heroic individuals there is plenty to discover at Hertford Museum. www.hertfordmuseum.org

Essex

Bedfordshire

Victorian Games Galore, 15-19 February Audley End House & Gardens, Saffron Waldon, Essex, CB11 4JF From skittles to quoits, croquet to chess, play like a Victorian as you step back in time this half term. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/audley-endhouse-and-gardens

Awesome Archaeology, 15-19 February Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire, MK45 4HR Get your hands dirty as you become a daring archaeologist on the mini dig for the day. Discover hidden treasures and fantastic finds as you excavate the secrets of Wrest Park. www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest

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For Teenagers Norfolk

Cambridgeshire

MagiMation, 15-16 February Norwich Puppet Theatre, Whitefriars, NR3 1TN Over two days, budding film makers will make a story, models, characters and learn how to bring their creatures to life with animation. Ages: 10-16 www.puppettheatre.co.uk

Cambridge Rocks, 18-19 February Chesterton Community College, Gilbert Road, Cambridge, CB4 3NY Cambridge Rocks is a holiday rock school for kids aged 11-16. You will get experience of playing in a band as well as the chance to improve your individual skills. www.cambridgerocks.com

Suffolk

Hertfordshire

Wild Parks: Bonkers about Bones, 17 February Ipswich, Kiln Meadow, Belstead Brook Park, IP8 3UD Free wildlife identification session for 8-14 year olds. Identify skulls and bones and hunt for signs of animals in the park. Free, booking required. www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org

BMX Thrills and MTB Skills, 13-21 February Lee Valley VeloPark, Abercrombie Road, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, E20 3AB Lee Valley offers over 20 cycling and 30 walking routes to keep kids entertained, but adventurous types should head to the Olympic Park for cycling like never before. Suitable for ages 7-16 years. www.visitleevalley.org.uk

Essex Sky Ropes: 13-21 February Great Notley Country Park, Great Notley, CM77 7FS Feel the thrill of high places and have an unforgettable adventure with family and friends at Sky Ropes - Great Notley Country Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brand new high ropes experience. Open 10-4pm throughout half term. www.visitparks.co.uk

Bedfordshire Go Ape at Woburn Safari Park, 17-21 February Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire, MK17 9QN Fly down a huge zip wire or leap off Tarzan Swings and enjoy the high ropes obstacles. Get some real monkey action and enjoy a wild day out. www.goape.co.uk

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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

Open Morn 10th ing Ma 9.30a rch m

“A place where individuality is cherished, catered for and celebrated” The Good Schools Guide

Friends’ School Saffron Walden

A small and vibrant school in the heart of Saffron Walden for pupils aged 3-18 with boarding from age 11. Visit us on 10th March at 9.30am. www.friends.org.uk admissions@friends.org.uk 01799 525351

EDUCATION

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS As a parent it’s important to head to a school open day with an open mind and plenty of questions. Charlotte Avery, Headmistress at St Mary’s School, Cambridge (www.stmaryscambridge.co.uk), shares her tips on making the most of the opportunity… Our Open Days take place on a Saturday morning, which is artificial in so much as our school doesn’t have Saturday lessons, however the representation of life at St Mary’s School, Cambridge is entirely authentic. Other schools with Saturday lessons are likely to invite visitors to view live lessons. In addition to lessons a range of extra-curricular and co-curricular activities will be showcased, for instance: Duke of Edinburgh’s Award students erecting tents, musical and theatrical students performing, sports teams competing, engineering club students at work, and a whole host of other student groups, staff members, and current parents will be on hand. Some families arrive at open morning seeking confirmation that this is the right school for their child’s personal, physical and academic development. Others attend a number of schools hoping to find clarity.

Make the most of open mornings by making sure to: Bring your child. Let your child ask questions of current students about daily life, whether they are happy, fulfilled, and enjoy coming to school. You will see whether students are warm, vibrant, funny and lively, and are full of drive and passion for their activities.

Speak to your peers. Ask current parents how proactive, responsive, clear and sensitive the school is in communicating with them. Get a feel for whether the school will be right for your family.

Consider your gut instinct. The ethos of a school is an intangible factor. We believe visitors should be able to pick up the positive atmosphere within 10 seconds!

Hear from the Head. Typically the Head will make a presentation at an open morning and this is the perfect opportunity to hear first-hand about a school’s values, added-value, support for students pastorally as well as academically, and the future direction each school may have.

Focus on your child’s passion. Once you have completed the tour around school and heard from the Head, focus on educational and extra-curricular aspects most suited to your child, taking their passions into account. Speak to staff members representing these areas to ensure the school offers relevant opportunities for your child.

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Creating opportunities… realising potential… living life to the full! We are an independent co-educational day school and nursery for 2–11 year olds Call us today on 01279 657706 or visit www.howegreenhouseschool.co.uk

Howe Green House School, Great Hallingbury, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire CM22 7UF

St Mary's ad Eastlife Jan 2016 107mm h x 148mm w_Layout 1 08/12/2015 15:55 Page 1

St Mary’s Colchester

A happy, academic independent school for girls 3-16 and boys 3-4. Sunday Times ParentPower 13th highest achieving independent school without a sixth form in the UK 95% GCSE passes in 2015 Success in SATs and 11+ Superb music, art, drama, sport

Come to our March 2016 Open Days!

Please visit our website or contact our registrar for more information www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk

registrar@stmaryscolchester.org.uk

01206 216420

Learning to love life

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%.

Dame Bradburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is excellent in all aspects Independent Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Inspectorate Report, Winter 2015

Prep School in Saffron Walden Boys and girls aged 3 to 11 www.damebradburys.com

We are the Stephen Perse www.stephenperse.com

SCHOOL It’s that time of year again when the region’s schools open their doors to welcome potential pupils. Here are the dates for your diary…

NORFOLK The New Eccles Hall School Saturday 27 February, 10.30am – 2pm Saturday 7 May, 10.30am – 2pm Saturday 18 June, 10.30am – 2pm Quidenham, Norwich, Norfolk, NR16 2NZ Tel: 01953 887217 www.neweccleshall.com

OPEN DAYS

SUFFOLK St Josephs College Prep and Senior School open mornings: Monday 7 March, Friday 22 April and Monday 6 June The Outstanding Prep School (ISI 2013) at St Joseph’s College (pictured above) continues to grow from strength to strength. Girls and boys thrive in a supportive environment. The academic challenges of the rich and vibrant curriculum ignite their curiosity and learning. Belstead Road, Ipswich, IP2 9DR Tel: 01473 690281 www.stjos.co.uk

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East LIfe Jan 2016.qxp_Eastlife Jan 2016 08/01/2016 14:27 Page 1

B E R K H A M S T E D The school that grows with you

B E R K H A M S T E D

PREP

B E R K H A M S T E D

B OY S

B E R K H A M S T E D

GIRLS

SIXTH

BDN, Pre-Prep & Prep Open Morning Friday 4 March 9 am - 12 noon To book your place please call Admissions on 01442 358001 www.berkhamstedschool.org Part of the Berkhamsted Schools Group

BDN Registered Company No. 07610890

School Registered Charity No.310630

An outstanding Independent Prep School for boys and girls aged 3-13 years

Happiness, Confidence, Success

OPEN MORNING Saturday, 5th March 2016 9.30am – 12.30pm

The pupils’ overall achievement is excellent, well supported by a broad and very well Independent Schools Inspectorate planned curriculum.

Contact: 01442 256143

www.westbrookhay.co.uk London Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 2RF

Tring_NEW_MUSICAL_THEATRE_148x107mm_11march_fnl.qxp_Layout 1 13/01/2016 15:04 Page 1

2 YEAR INTENSIVE MUSICAL THEATRE COURSE 16 YEARS+

OPEN DAY 11 MARCH 2016 Apply online at www.tringpark.com/opendays Tring Park is a full-time co-educational boarding and day school for pupils age 8-19

MUSICAL THEATRE GRADUATES Daisy Ridley Star Wars Lily James Cinderella, War and Peace Dani De Waal Once Gabriella Williams Mamma Mia Daniella Bowen Mamma Mia Rosie Fletcher Wicked Monique Young Hairspray Harrison Clark Hairspray Jake Small Shrek the Musical Stephanie Rojas Love Me Tender Matt Gillett Jersey Boys Damian Buhagiar Jersey Boys Georgie Ashford Barnum Hannah Fairclough Ghost Tamsin Dowsett Les Miserables Karina Hind wonder.land

www.tringpark.com info@tringpark.com or tel. 01442 824255

Registered charity no. 1040330 Photo of Daisy Ridley in The Tring Park production of The Boy Friend by www.gentlevisions.co.uk

Inspired Learning

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

Whole School

Open Day

From Nursery to Sixth Form (3-18 years), outstanding success is achieved through a broad and challenging curriculum. In a happy, friendly environment, girls visibly grow in confidence and ability, emerging as fully rounded, educated young women.

Come and see for yourself.

www.pilgrims-school.info

Give us a call

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

Open Morning Wednesday 9th March, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 | www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

01604 765765

www.northamptonhigh.gdst.net

THE HARPUR TRUST PRE PREP

Bold Imaginative Reflective

9.30am - 12noon

Friday 11 March

Oxford House School www.oxfordhouseschool.net • Montessori teaching methods • Emphasis on academic achievement An independent co-educational school for children aged 2½ - 11years

• Strong traditional values • Music, dance and drama enrich the curriculum

OUR NEXT OPEN EVENING IS Thursday 10th March 2016 6.00pm – 8.30pm For more information or to arrange a private visit to the school please contact our Admissions Registrar, Mrs Harding on 01206 576686. 2 - 4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE

CAMBRIDGESHIRE The Stephen Perse Foundation Saturday 12 March: An Inspired Education for 2017, 9.30 - 12.30pm. A hands-on experience for boys and girls currently in Year 4 and 5 and their parents. Union Road, Cambridge CB2 1HF Tel: 01223 454700 www.stephenperse.com

Essex Oxford House School Open day Thursday 10 March, 6pm – 8.30pm 2-4 Lexden Road, Colchester CO3 3NE Tel: 01206 576686 www.oxfordhouseschool.net St Mary’s School for Girls Lower School: Thursday 17 March, 9.30am-11.30am and Saturday 19 March, 9.30am – midday Senior School: Tuesday 1 March, 10.30am-12.30pm, Thursday 3 March, 1.45pm-3pm and Saturday 5 March, midday-3pm 1 Lexden Road, Colchester CO3 3RB   Tel: 01206 572544 www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk Friends School Thursday 10 March, 9.30am The Nursery, Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form will all be open for tours. Mount Pleasant Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 3EB Tel: 01799 525351 www.friends.org.uk St Michael’s School Friday 4 March, 10.30am - midday Saturday 5 March 10.30am - 12.30pm There will be an opportunity to meet staff and pupils of the school and ask any questions you may have. 198 Hadleigh Rd, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2LP   Tel: 01702 478719 www.stmichaelsschool.com 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 Tring Park School Friday 11 March Mansion Drive, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 5LX   Tel: 01442 824255 www.tringpark.com Pilgrims School Saturday 12 March, 10am – 12pm. Brickhill Drive, Bedford, MK41 7QZ Tel: 01234 369555 www.pilgrims-school.info St Francis College Saturday 23 April, 10am-12.30pm Open day for all parts of the school. The Headmistress will be speaking at 11am. 1 Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 3PJ   Tel: 01462 670511 www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk 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 Berkhamsted School Open days will be held from 29 Sept - 1 Oct. Kings Campus, Kings Road, Berkhamsted, HP4 3BG Tel: 01442 358166/7 www.berkhamstedschool.org

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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

www.regattaaldeburgh.com Join us on twitter #AldeburghR

FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINKNews BRAND NEW to Eastlife This month we are adding two new regular foodie blogs to our website! The Fry-Up Inspector (www.fryupinspector.co.uk) has been searching the streets of Norwich and beyond since 2010 for the perfect breakfast experience. Read his collection of stories and secrets at www.eastlife.co.uk on the 1st of each month. Joining the team on a monthly basis as our contributing chef is recent winner of the Great British Menu, Richard Bainbridge. Currently head chef at Benedicts restaurant in Norwich, Richard will be sharing his recipes and cooking tips. He will begin by offering a delicious Valentine’s Day menu for two!

Pre-date food Feeling nervous before your big Valentine’s Day date? Read our tips on the little snacks beforehand that might be able to help..

De-stress = NutS Shona Wilkinson, head nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com, says: “Nuts are a good source of magnesium, which helps with efficient energy production while also being calming to the nervous system.”

Red Dog to open at intu Lakeside

Line your stomach = salmon and olives

Authentic hickory barbeque restaurant chain, Red Dog, has confirmed it will be opening an establishment at The Food Court at intu Lakeside, Essex.

If you are seeing him for cocktails make sure your belly is ready for alcoholic drinks. “Include healthy fats such as salmon or olive oil dressing to slow absorption of alcohol, thereby slowing the work for your liver. Don’t have time for a meal? Snack on olives before you go out,” explains Wilkinson.

Keep your breath fresh = crunchy fruit and vegetables “Carrots, apples and celery can help scrape out the plague build-ups that can cause bad breath. Apart from being nutritious and healthy, these crunchy foods can also boost production of saliva, which fights bacteria,” says Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns

The popular restaurant, which has a cult following on social media for its American sandwiches, will add to the shopping centres ‘retailtainment’ offer. Julian Wilkinson, regional director of intu, said: “As well as the food court and The Boardwalk, we have a ma jor leisure extension planned and a 74-room Travelodge hotel in the pre-construction phase. Red Dog is a great addition to intu Lakeside where we’re giving customers much more choice.” Red Dog already has popular London restaurants near Old Street and in Clapham.

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Make someone happy with a gift from Cambridge’s favourite chocolate shop This year make Valentine’s Day really special with the gift of handmade chocolate 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 01233 778982

www.chocolatchocolat.co.uk

Look up,

look down,

look around!

Shuttleworth is home to the Co llection of histor ic aircraft, vintag e vehicles and motorcycles, an d a 19th-Centu ry Swiss Garde n

Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP l sally.clark@shuttleworth.org l 01767 627940

Senior Citizen Monday Lunch Special (2 Nov 2015-21 March 2016), Biker’s Special (all of March 2016), and tasty hot meals and snacks every day. Visit the Shuttleworth Restaurant!

www.shuttleworth.org/restaurant East Life Feb 2016 HP.indd 1

Reg Charity No. 307534

11/01/2016 09:38:49

CAMBRIDGE FOODIE

Gerla de Boer, founder of the Cambridge Food Tour, shares her wisdom of the city’s cuisine…

WOO YOUR VALENTINE Red roses, a candlelit dinner or a big box of fine chocolate? What is the best recipe to impress your loved one? To be really honest, there isn’t just one. Only you know how to impress your Valentine. One thing for sure; let it be personal and a surprise. Here is a small round up of ideas for inspiration. It’s for you to do the finishing touches!

For the active Valentine This busy bee is hard to catch! Go for a run or a bike ride and refuel at the Espresso Library. There will be a lot of likeminded Valentines around on Sunday the 14th. Throw in some more activities that day and you’ll have a winner. www.espressolibrary.com

For the romantic Valentine Red roses and champagne breakfast in bed is the ultimate start. Next, the Glasshouse Spa for pure indulgence before you reach the climax of the day; cocktails and a star-dusted dinner at Alimentum. www.theglassworksgym.co.uk/elemis-spa.php www.restaurantalimentum.co.uk

For the quiet Valentine Some people love to be spoiled, but don’t like the crowds. Avoid the Valentines rush and whisk your Valentine away the next weekend. Tuddenham Mill is the place you are looking for. Peaceful, close to Cambridge, fantastic rooms and delicious food. The perfect short break for loved up couples. www.tuddenhammill.co.uk/offers/offers/ valentines-day

For the working Valentine They often miss out on this special day. No pampering for these love birds, they will be spoiling other Valentines that weekend as they will be working. They are often hard to please; cooking up a storm themselves or choosing the perfect wine. Try something new or unexpected. If you don’t mind a drive, head off to Daniel’s Cliffords’ new venture - The Flitch of Bacon. Or closer to home, an Indian with a twist - Navahanya. www.flitchofbacon.co.uk and www.navadhanya.co.uk

For the secret Valentine You have fallen in love and are now embarking on a huge challenge. You could just send a card, but your aim is to impress. Send him or her a huge bunch of roses with an invite for a cookery class at Thaikun Cambridge. Of course you’ll be there too and make sure you’ll share her cooking station. www.thaikhun.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk

KEN HOM FIVE-MINUTE INTERVIEW WITH

As the Chinese New Year welcomes the Year of the Monkey on 8 February, we sat down with celebrity chef Ken Hom to find out why we’re a nation that just can’t get enough of Asian cuisine and why it doesn’t need to come in a takeaway box… You’ve had an amazing career, what has been your biggest achievement? It would be sharing my Chinese culture and love of Chinese food with the UK. When I first started cooking in the UK, over 30 years ago, it was hard to obtain authentic ingredients. Now the range of Chinese cookery ingredients in the UK is second to none. Why do you think Chinese cuisine is so popular among Brits? It is partially due to your empire where Brits lived in Singapore, Hong Kong and other parts of Asia. They returned with their love to Chinese food and there is something for everyone in Chinese cuisine. It can be mild, spicy or just plain tasty. It caters to vegetarians as well as those who like meat. And Chinese food is quite healthy too. For most it’s very much takeaway based, what advice can you give those wanting to cook Chinese dishes at home? First get a good Ken Hom wok! You should start with the simplest of stir-fries, keep the meal simple and don’t panic! What’s the best dish for beginners? I would begin with your favourite vegetable, stir-fried with crushed garlic, salt and pepper. After mastering that, you can go on to more complicated dishes. Where is the best place to shop for authentic ingredients? In ordinary supermarkets which now carry a wide range of authentic ingredients. If you are really ambitious you can go to larger Chinese emporiums like Wing Yip, it will be a fun trip as well.

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Do you have a favourite Chinese restaurant in East Anglia? I have some good friends in East Anglia and next time I visit we are going to dine at Trongs, Ipswich. I hear it is very good. What are your early recollections of THE Chinese New Year? When I was around five years old, seeing the lion dance, firecrackers, family banquets and red envelopes filled with money for children. Adults are obliged to give any child that wishes them a ‘Happy New Year’, a red envelope full of money.

How is it traditionally celebrated? With lots of family banquets filled with food that is also symbolic of the New Year; for example, noodles for longevity and fish for prosperity. As in previous years, I will be celebrating with close family and friends in London. What would you recommend to our readers who want to celebrate at home? Make one or two stir-fried dishes and then supplement your banquet with some of my chilled meals from Tesco. Don’t put yourself under pressure and enjoy spending time with your nearest and dearest. Are you currently working on any exciting projects? I will be touring the UK, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Ken Hom wok and I’m looking forward to the publication of my memoirs in the autumn. New Year is all about new beginnings. What do you hope to achieve in 2016? I hope to raise more funds for all the charities I am heavily involved in to make this a better world. Ken’s range of Oriental meals is available from Tesco. Keep up with all Ken’s news by visiting www.facebook. com/ChefKenHom or www.kenhom.co.uk

cook with

KEN

Steamed Cantonese Style Fish Steaming fish is a favourite Chinese tradition because it preserves the purest flavours of the fish. A simple but gentle cooking technique, nothing masks the fresh taste of the fish, which remains moist and tender at the same time, and you can savour the combination of the other ingredients. Always ask your fishmonger for the freshest possible fish and have him prepare it for cooking. An added bonus, it is also quite healthy Serves 4

450 g (1 lb) firm white fish fillets, such as cod or sole, or a whole fish such as sole or turbot 1 teaspoon of coarse sea salt or plain salt 1Â˝ tablespoon of fresh ginger, finely shredded 3 tablespoons spring onions, finely shredded 2 tablespoons light soy sauce 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce 1 tablespoon peanut or groundnut oil 2 teaspoons sesame oil Garnish: handful of fresh coriander sprigs For the full recipe download the app or visit www.eastlife.co.uk

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N aut

Tele Aberdeen N

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Telephone 01638 666320 Aberdeen House, 9â&#x20AC;&#x201C;11 High Street, Newmarket, Suffolk

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Art & Craft Gallery

Vintage Collectables and Furniture

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Book now for

Bridge Farm Barns

Quilting & Felting

Sunday 6th March

Telephone: 01449 740456

Monks Eleigh, Nr Lavenham, Suffolk IP7 7AY

www.bridgefarmbarns.co.uk

FASHION

You’re SEXY and you know it Written by Ruth Essex, My Colour Coach

February brings Valentine’s Day and romance, raising the question of what to wear of course and I think we can assume that looking gorgeous and sexy is the name of the game. First of all let’s consider what is not sexy: Something too tight No one looks too great with tummy rolls or back fat on show. Whether or not you are a few pounds over your fighting weight, wearing clothes that are too small, makes you look bigger than you are and feel uncomfortable. Not sexy Alternatively, wearing a tent hides all your good bits and so the assumption is that it is all bad under there. Go for figure skimming clothes and some decent supportive underwear instead.

Something too short Do show off your legs if they are your best bit, but remember less is more. Showing your knickers looks cheap: a stocking clad thigh however is alluring and has the potential of perhaps, perhaps, perhaps... Too much flesh on display A hint of cleavage is certainly sexy but a full frontal assault is not. No one will ever look into your eyes when there is so much breast on show. You can subtly draw attention to your cleavage by wearing a chain with a small pendant on it as it draws the eyes down and sparkly earrings enhance your eyes, especially in candlelight. Get your hair done, add a dash of your favourite perfume, then step out with a sway of confidence. Looking sexy, is often about feeling sexy, and that usually comes from self-confidence. Ruth Essex is an image consultant. www.mycolourcoach.co.uk Ruth@mycolourcoach.co.uk Tel: 07900 910 666

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Open Day

30th Jan 2016 10am – 3pm By appointment

P2170 FELIX _ADVERT_107x148.indd 1

21/01/2016 14:59

PROM DRESSES PROM EVENINGS

Wednesday February 10th 2016 & Thursday February 25th 2016 4:00pm to 8:00pm

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

01480 461187 | WWW.CREAM-ROSE.CO.UK 7 HIGH STREET, FENSTANTON, CAMBS PE28 9LQ OPEN Tuesday 11:00am to 4:00pm, Wednesday to Friday 10:00am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Sunday by Appointment.

TREASURES THE BRIDAL SHOP 81C HIGH STREET, KING’S LYNN, NORFOLK PE30 1BB

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

MARISA A RNA

jewellery studio

and gallery

PETER’S BRIDAL WAREHOUSE WEDDING DRESS FACTORY OUTLET

Gold, silver and gemstone jewellery, handmade at the studio by Marisa Arna. From inexpensive small gifts, to bespoke engagement and wedding rings. Commissions include remodelling of old jewellery into more contemporary designs. The gallery specialises in showcasing hand-made jewellery exclusively by designer-makers based in the British Isles.

UNIQUE JEWELLERY HANDMADE IN THE UK

STUNNING DRESSES, SIZE 8 TO 36 IN STOCK FOR YOU TO TRY ON TODAY Priced from £299 to £899

Call 07917757862 www.petersbridalwarehouse.com Unit 21 Northfield Business Park, Soham, CB7 5UE HIGH STREET, THORPE-LE-SOKEN, nr FRINTON-ON-SEA ESSEX CO160EA 01255-862355, studio@marisaarna.co.uk

www.marisaarna.com

Just off A142 Soham By Pass, (Behind Scampers Pet Store)

Facebook.. Peter Bridal Warehouse

GURU THE WEDDING

If you’re a bride-to-be this is one column not to be missed! Each month wedding planner extraordinaire Katrina Otter will be sharing her top tips and advice on everything wedding. From styling and trends to essential guides, she’s got it covered.

Written by Katrina Otter

Before you rush head first into visiting potential venues it’s important to take some time to think about what’s most important to you as a couple, what sort of day you see yourselves having and the vibe you want for your day i.e. do you see yourselves having a casual or formal day, city chic wedding or a classically elegant country affair?

- How many guests do you want to invite to your ceremony, reception and evening reception? - What is your budget (provisional/guideline), including projected savings and family contributions, and what proportion of this would you ideally like to spend on your wedding venue? - Where geographically would you like to hold your wedding? - When would you like to hold your wedding? i.e. do you have particular date, month or season in mind or are you flexible? - What time do you want your wedding to start and end? - What kind of ceremony would you like to have and would you like this to be as close to your venue as possible or even in-house? - Are you happy to use preferred or recommended suppliers or do you want to bring in your own? - Do you want a marquee? - Do you want to bring your own alcohol? - Do you want any extras like fireworks, candles etc? - Do you want a blank canvas venue or one that comes pre-styled? - Do you need accommodation on-site or nearby?

Once you’ve determined the overall style and vibe for your day then you’re probably still left with too many options. To help narrow these down even further, try answering the following questions as the answers to which will save you valuable time in the long run:

If you’ve answered all of these questions you’ll now have a solid foundation to start researching venues and most importantly some criteria to help you narrow down the options!

This month she begins with the top priority of every newly engaged bride - how to choose the ultimate wedding venue... Choosing the perfect wedding venue is one of the hardest decisions, if not the hardest decision you’re likely to make along your wedding planning journey. Where do you start and how do you even begin to choose between the thousands of stunning stately homes, fabulous sites for marquees, city chic hotels and rustic country barns?

50 Download Our App Today!

WEDDINGS Armed with your search criteria, Google is a great starting point but there are also some fantastic resources out there to help point you in the right direction and make your venue search easier including wedding blogs, Pinterest and bridal magazines, with my personal favourite being the utterly invaluable UK Wedding Venue Directory, ‘Coco Wedding Venues’. Once you’ve narrowed down a list of suitable venues (I’d recommend between 6 and 12) it’s finally time to start arranging venue appointments. Make sure you go to these appointments fully prepared and don’t be afraid to ask questions! Venue visits normally last around an hour so make notes, take pictures and if you can’t remember what you saw or discussed then always go back for a second, third or even forth visit and for total peace of mind, why not take a friend or family member with you for a second opinion. Finally, before you hand over deposit payments and sign on the dotted line make sure you fully understand the venue payment terms, what’s included and the all-important terms and conditions! Once you’ve found the perfect venue and set the date you’re then one step closer to your dream day.

Image credits: Left: Adam’s Photo Art.

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.

Right: Wookie Photography

eastlife.co.uk

FOOD TRENDS 2016

Tamsin Beeson, wedding co-ordinator at the award-winning Hylands House, Essex (www.hylandsestateweddings.co.uk), gives an insight into what’s on the plate for wedding guests this year.

HOME COMFORTS There is a trend in reinventing classic dishes at weddings such as traditional roasts, fish and chips and bangers and mash that are often associated with happy childhood memories. Family favourites also include prawn cocktail, soup, sausage and mash, profiteroles and cheesecake.

MINIATURE BRITISH Traditional British fare in miniature form is also becoming widespread and is replacing the old-style evening buffet. This usually consists of mini dishes of pies and mash and little toad in the holes. Presentation is key, so maybe have monogrammed boxes and wrappers.

BRUNCH How do you like your eggs? Brunches look set to become popular. Think eggs benedict or royale, avocado and bacon, pancakes, smoked salmon, croissants and continental breads – all washed down with Champagne and Bucks Fizz.

Afternoon Tea It is still trendy to have a vintage and often beautifully accessorised afternoon tea. Tables are decorated with flowers and tea lights, delicate and colourful crockery and antique style cutlery. Caterers can always add a gourmet twist to a traditional English tea – beautifully iced cup-cakes, finger sandwiches with exotic cheeses, mini-cakes, lovely berry meringues and savoury as well as sweet scones.

eastlife.co.uk

A venue as individual as you.

Each show is uniquely designed for your special occasion, to give your guests a spectacular sensory experience they will not forget. Or... you could visit our showroom with over 150 fireworks to choose from for your own DIY display.

Tel 01945 463857

info@fireworksdisplayteam.co.uk

www.fireworksdisplayteam.co.uk

www.johnharrisphotography.co.uk

Mannington Gardens provide superb surroundings for a reception and there is ample room for marquees on the lawns and beautiful backgrounds for photographs. We specialise in a personal approach and like to consider each celebration separately and price to individual needs. We would recommend you come to see the Hall and Gardens to see if this could be the venue for you. We can help to arrange marquees, caterers, florists and photographs if you wish or provide you with addresses if you prefer to make your own arrangements. RECEPTIONS Prices start from ÂŁ400 plus VAT but each wedding is priced individually according to requirements. Receptions on Saturdays but not on garden open days. Mannington Hall, Mannington, Norfolk NR11 7BB 01263 584175 admin@walpoleestate.co.uk

www.manningtongardens.co.uk

www.awesome-caricatures.com

Timelessly elegant, a unique wedding venue with a personal touch.

Shuttleworth offers bespoke wedding packages, tailored to your special occasion. Discuss your wedding requirements in more detail with our wedding co-ordinator.

www.shuttleworth.org/weddings

Shuttleworth, Old Warden, Bedfordshire SG18 9EP. Call Tracy Butterfield on 01767 626247

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ONE OF HERTFORDSHIRE’S PREMIER WEDDING VENUES ....where the past and present unite choice of historic, traditional and contemporary surroundings; range of wonderful rooms accommodating 10 to 200 guests; picturesque riverside location and beautiful gardens; award-winning catering of the highest calibre

High Street, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 9AL Tel: 01920 460316 www.warepriory.co.uk @warepriory warepriory 01 Jan East Life Mothers Day HP 2016_Layout 1 11/01/2016 11:30 Page 1

M other ’s D ay L unch at Ufford Park Woodbridge

Sunday 6th March accompanied by Mr Tim & his Saxophone Words are never enough to thank her, so celebrate her special day with a delicious lunch in The Park Restaurant. All Mums will be entered into a FREE prize draw.

£16.95 for 2 courses

£20.95 for 3 courses

Children under 12 years old half price

Looking for something a little different this Mother's Day ? Why not treat her to a special night away, with a relaxing treatment and time out in our Thermal Suite Spa? We have a range of treatments and packages for all tastes.

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

SAVE THE DATE

Planning a 2016 wedding or getting ahead of the game for 2017? Get started here with our top wedding fayres and events in your local area... CAMBRIDGESHIRE Hotel Felix Wedding Open Day, 30 January Cambridge, CB3 0LX 10-3pm www.hotelfelix.co.uk Truly Scrumptious Wedding Show, 7 Feb The Burgess Hall, St Ives, PE27 6WU 11-3pm www.burgesshall.net Cambridge Menzies Golf & Spa Spring Wedding Show, 20 March Bar Hill, Cambridge, CB23 8EU 11-3pm www.hallmarkhotels.co.uk Hinchingbrooke House Wedding Fayre, 28 Feb Huntingdon, PE29 3BN 11-3.30pm www.hhpac.co.uk NORFOLK EDP Norfolk Wedding Show, 20-21 Feb The Norfolk Showground, Norwich, NR5 0TT 10-4pm www.norfolkshowground.rnaa.org.uk

Compiled by Liz Jane Mattock The Forum, 20 March Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 1TF 10-4pm www.mjr-events.co.uk Dunston Hall, 17 April Norwich, Norfolk NR14 8PQ 10.30-3.30pm www.qhotels.co.uk Sprowston Manor Wedding Show, 22 May Norwich, Norfolk, NR7 8RP 11-3.30pm www.marriott.co.uk SUFFOLK Kesgrave Hall Hotel Wedding Fayre, 21 Feb Ipswich, IP5 2PU 10.30- 3.00pm The Suffolk Wedding Show, 13 March Wherstead Park, IP9 2BJ 10.30-3pm www.thesuffolkweddingshow.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk

Your perfect day… Our perfect wedding venue…

WEDDING FAIR FEBRUARY 28TH 11 AM – 3-30PM A fantastic opportunity for couples to plan their Wedding Day, to make contact with our Exhibitors and be inspired by their specialist services. please visit www.hhpac.co.uk or call 01480 375 678

Bespoke wedding packages that cover the delicate buttonholes, brides posy to large top table designs created just for you on your very special day.

CARDEA’S ONLY FLORIST NOW OPEN! Open every week day, 8.30am - 5.30pm and 9am - 1pm Saturdays

Unit 1 Bellona Drive, Stanground, Peterborough PE2 8GP | Tel: 07947 320550 A family run florist promising an exceptional service and priding themselves on offering customers full traceability from seed to flower and cutting to plant.

Ufford Park Wedding Event, 13 March Woodbridge, IP12 1QW 11-3pm www.uffordpark.co.uk Glemham Hall Truly Vintage Wedding Fayre, 5 June Little Glemham, IP13 0BT 10-4pm www.glemhamhall.co.uk Essex Roding House Wedding Event, 7 Feb Dunmow, CM6 1RG 11-3pm www.colvillehallweddings.co.uk Hylands House Wedding Show, 17 April London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ 11-3pm www.hylandestateweddings.co.uk County Hotel Wedding Fayre, 17 April Chelmsford, CM1 2PZ 11-3pm www.countyhotelchelmsford.co.uk BedS & HERTS The Letchworth Hall Hotel Wedding Fayre, 7 Feb Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3NP 11-4pm www.accorhotels.co.uk

Looking for the perfect bridesmaid dress? Luanne Hill, managing director of Cream Rose (www.cream-rose.co.uk), an independent boutique in Fenstanton, Cambs, gives us an insight into the must-have styles this season: “The popular colours are definitely cooler this season, such as Glacier, but ‘Cadbury’s Purple’ is still a favourite. This year, brides are less keen to have just one style, allowing bridesmaids to choose a dress that suits them - as long as the colour theme stays the same. Black tie weddings are ‘big’ this season, so some of our evening dress designs are coming up trumps.”

Bedfordshire Wedding Show, 14 Feb Park Inn by Radisson in Bedford, MK42 0AR 11-4pm www.parkinn.co.uk/hotel-bedford Woburn Estate Wedding Fair, 21 Feb Woburn Abbey, Woburn, Beds, MK17 9WA 10.30-3.30pm www.woburnweddings.co.uk Hatfield House, 28 Feb Hatfield, AL9 5NQ 11-4pm www.hatfield-house.co.uk Moggerhanger Park Wedding Fayre, 13 March Bedford, MK44 3RW 11-3pm www.moggerhangerpark.com The Bedfordshire Wedding Fayre, 10 April The House Shuttleworth, SG19 9EA 11-4pm www.bedfordshireweddingfairs.co.uk

H Hidden wedding treasures in Norfolk If you’re looking for a beautiful bridal gown without the enormous price tag, visit Treasures The Bridal Shop (www.treasuresthebridalshop.co.uk), situated in the lovely market town of King’s Lynn. The large store features a fantastic selection of bridal and bridesmaids dresses. It stocks over 100 bridesmaids dresses - most available in over 60 different colours including popular designers Dessy, Venus and Ebony Rose.

eastlife.co.uk

  

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

MOTORING

SPORTY & STYLISH

The Suzuki Vitara S manual

Written by Sue Cooke

This month, I’ve been driving the new Suzuki Vitara S, which went on sale in January this year and has its own built-in anti-gravity technology! The ALLGRIP intelligent four-wheel drive is fitted as standard equipment on the S grade trim and is definitely an asset in February weather. The SUV’s sporty stylish looks made me feel like an adolescent even before I got in it and the cabin is bright and spacious and radiates quality. The standard equipment list is long, with executive car like features that on the SZ4 model includes seven airbags, alloy wheels, DAB Radio with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control with speed limiter, auto air conditioning and front and rear electric windows. An excellent feature is the standard Hill Hold Control which makes hill starts much easier by preventing the vehicle from rolling backwards for two seconds as soon as the driver removes his or her foot from the brake to the accelerator pedal. All the knobs are large and easy to use and storage for all the bits and pieces we all carry in our cars are numerous. When I came to load the boot with my weekly shopping, I found there was plenty of cargo space. What I really like about an SUV is the high driving position, and the Suzuki gives a good command of the road ahead. The off-road technology is a constant safety feature, which you don’t need to think about. It will take you easily and surefootedly

Model: Suzuki Vitara manual transmission Price: £20,899 otr Engine: 1.4 litre petrol with Boosterjet technology Performance: 0-62mph in 10.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 124 mph CO2 emissions: 127g/km Combined fuel consumption: 52.3mpg across a muddy field or gravelled area. There are four driver selectable modes. Auto mode prioritises fuel economy in typical driving conditions and uses two-wheel drive by default. It switches to four wheel drive if it detects wheel spin. The sport mode is for twisty roads. Snow mode is for snowy, unpaved, and other slippery surfaces and lock mode is for getting the car out of snow, mud, or sand. The Vitara is rated one of Europe‘s safest cars according to independent crash testing results from Euro NCAP, and received the maximum 5-star rating. The model I road tested was powered by a new 1.4 litre engine which uses Suzuki’s new Boosterjet technology and says Suzuki provides 17 per cent more power than the larger 1.6 litre engine. And rather quicker than my roller skate speed, it does have great get up and go. At £20,899 otr, it seems a small price to pay for driving safely and securely on battered February roads and for providing me with a lingering reminder of youth. Follow Sue @cookecars

eastlife.co.uk

BIG BRANDS, SMALL PRICES

CLAC FACTOR TON Y OUTLE DISC T

OUNT FOOTWE ED FASHION, AR, F AND MU URNITURE CH MOR E!

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

FA S HIO N OU T L E T S • L E I S U R E S T OR E S • C A F E S FURNIT URE A ND HOME WA RE S • FREE PA RK ING

HOW TO MANAGE DEBT My aim today is simple: to slash the interest you pay to 0%. This is a masterclass in cutting the cost not just of credit cards, but loans, overdrafts and store cards too. It isn’t just about cost reduction, it can mean you’re debt free quicker too – as if you pay less interest, it means more of your repayments clear the actual debt. And now’s the perfect time to do it. As so many people look at their debt costs at the beginning of the year, lenders throw out better deals to attract your custom.

CREDIT CARDS – CUT COSTS TO 23MTH 0% NO FEE This is easy, as there’s fierce competition. It’s all about balance transfer deals, where you get a new card that repays debts on old cards for you, so you owe it instead. www.Halifax.co.uk has just launched the new longest-ever 23 month 0% debt shift, that has no fee. If you’re not sure you can clear your debt within that time, go longer. The longest 0% deal is www.MBNA.co.uk Platinum card at 39 months 0% with a 2.98% fee. Yet don’t just apply in hope, as that hits your credit file. My full best buys guide at www.mse.mebal ancetransfers includes a free eligibility calculator, which gives card-by-card odds of which you’re most likely to get – so you can home in on your winner. Yet if you do balance transfer, always follow these golden rules: a) Never miss the minimum monthly repayments,

CONSUMER

Martin Lewis Talks...

or the bank can end your 0% deal and charge far more. b) Clear the card or balance transfer before the 0% ends, or the rate rockets to 18.9% - 20% APR. c) Never spend on the card or worse withdraw cash. They’re not usually at 0%.

SHIFT YOUR OVERDRAFT TO 0% Overdrafts are often more costly than credit cards, especially if you bust your limit. There are two solutions. The first is switching to a bank offering a 0% overdraft. www.Firstdirect.com offers you £125 to join it and a £250 0% overdraft (you must pay in income of £1,000/month). So if your overdraft’s under £375, this pays some off and the rest is interest-free. Also the www.Nation wide.co.uk FlexDirect account has a larger 0%, but only for a year. Alternatively, in some ways it’s just simpler to pay it off with a money transfer card, especially for larger amounts. You’ll need pass a credit check for both routes.

IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING TO SLEEP DUE TO YOUR DEBTS If so, forget my solutions above and get free, oneon-one debt counselling help. The places I’d suggest are www.Citizens Advice.org.uk, www.StepChange.org or www.NationalDebtline. co.uk. They are there to help, not judge. The most common comment I get afterwards is “I finally got a good night’s sleep”

eastlife.co.uk

IN THE

SPOTLIGHT: Bicicletta Cafe con Velo With its original concept Bicicletta Cafe con Velo is one of the busiest cafes in Saffron Walden. We find out the secret to its success…

What do you love about working in East Anglia?

FACT FILE Name: Peter Moore Company: Bicicletta Cafe con Velo Location: Saffron Walden Company info: A coffee and biking shop selling top notch bikes and apparel with locally roasted coffee, cakes and a daily changing menu of healthy, seasonal food. What role do you play in the company? I am the General Manager. I look after the day-to-day running of the shop, designing the menus and ensuring customers and staff are as happy as they can be! I work with the cafe owner Christopher Middleton to ensure Bicicletta is a continuing success.

What makes your company special? We focus on quality in all aspects of what we do at Bicicletta; top quality bikes and apparel alongside a fresh food offering and the best coffee we can find. The cafe owner Christopher is passionate about cycling and on seeking out the best products for the shop. We draw in cyclists and clubs from all over the South East and East Anglia as well as serving the locals of Saffron Walden with the best coffee in town.

I love the friendliness of all of our customers and staff. Drawing in customers from all across the region shows us that this is truly a unique and lovely area of the country. Essex is where I grew up and work has taken me across Europe but it is nice to be back. Essex is extremely diverse and the proximity to cities like London and Cambridge is fantastic.

WhERE is your favourite place to visit in East Anglia? I like anywhere in the fresh air, whether it’s Norfolk’s beaches or walking at Hatfield Forest - luckily we have plenty of options right on our doorstep. Cambridge in the summer is also wonderful.

Where is your favourite place to dine in the region? The Elder Street Deli at Debden Barns is a family favourite. They have a warm welcome and a great menu of fresh food.

What events are you most looking forward to this year? The Tour d’Essex Sportive; it’s a great way to get out and see the county on your bike.

What can Eastlife readers look forward tOo from Bicicletta this year? Continuing to serve our customers with the best possible products with the friendliest staff in the area and more special events including film and music evenings, coverage of the Spring Classics and Live Grand Tour coverage!

eastlife.co.uk

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

Tel: 01473 827666

www.hadleighkitchens.co.uk

SIMPLE HAS NEVER LOOKED SO STYLISH PERSONAL SERVICE – QUALITY PRODUCTS – ATTENTION TO DETAIL

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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Wood pellets are on average 25% cheaper than oil

Remove your dependence on fossil fuels and benefit the environment

Wood fuelled heating is more accessible than you think. Contact the wood fuel specialists for an appraisal of your property.

* Based on UK average 18,000kw/h per year usage & subject to Green Deal Assessment

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STOVES & FIREPLACES

HOME & GARDEN

FORTHCOMING SPRING TRENDS Written by Danielle Harris, Oak Furniture Superstore Spring is the season for freshening up our homes and making those changes that we have been putting off over the winter months, and it also brings lots of fantastic new interior design trends with it. I have identified some of the key interior design trends that will be making an appearance as we head into spring, and hope that these inspire you to make some great changes to your home.

MERGING MATERIALS This spring combining different materials in your home will bring your interior design right up to date. Oak, metal and plastic can be used together to create a fantastic look with lots of creativity and personality. Dining sets look particularly striking when they feature a variety of materials. You could choose to select a table combining more than one material, an oak table paired with quirky plastic chairs or a high gloss and glass fusion, to bring something new into your home.

GORGEOUS GREY FURNITURE Grey furniture has been increasing in popularity and is set to be one of the top interior fashions. Soft greys look fantastic in bedrooms and offer a calming element; their neutral tones complement a variety of colours and are sure to fit in anywhere. Beds, wardrobes and dressing tables can all be found in grey, meaning that you can furnish your bedroom completely using this on-trend colour. The combination of oak and grey is also perfect for a classic contemporary dining or living room. This is a great option if you want to add a different colour to the room without re-decorating.

COLOUR IN THE KITCHEN To get your kitchen ready for the new season try bringing some blues and greens into the room. Set to be the top kitchen colours for 2016, different shades of blue and green can freshen up your kitchen and give it a brand new look. These colours can be introduced into your kitchen by painting the walls, purchasing new kitchen accessories, or getting some blue or green dining chairs for your kitchen dining set. Many of these trends will be great for spring, but will also look fantastic throughout the year, so it is the perfect time to pick your favourite and incorporate this into your home. www.oakfurnituresuperstore.co.uk

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WARM UP We list the pros and cons of underfloor heating Underfloor heating is a fantastic and stylish way of heating the home. It’s lovely to walk on, it distributes heat evenly in each room and it frees up wall space, but unfortunately despite improvements over the years, it’s still very much considered a luxury and expensive home addition. Before you make your decision, read our pros and cons and to decide whether it’s right for your home…

Pros

Your feet will love it Cold mornings, warm floors, need we say more? The biggest attraction of underfloor heating is comfort. It allows you to walk around bare foot all year, and is lovely after stepping out of the shower. Even distribution Unlike radiators that heat an isolated area, heat slowly rises from the ground, efficiently heating the whole room. Add value to your home Underfloor heating is considered a high spec, state-of-the-art system and will instantly attract buyers looking for a luxurious property.

Cons

Big bucks Perhaps the biggest issue is the fact that underfloor heating is extremely expensive to install, run and maintain, especially if it’s in addition to your main heating system. In older houses ensuring the correct conditions under the floor can be ma jor work. A slow start Unfortunately, underfloor heating takes longer to warm up than a radiator which adapts quickly to temperature change. So if you’re heading out into the cold, you’ll need to be prepared and think ahead. Small systems If you use a smaller system, it may not completely supplement radiators. Meaning you’ll need a radiator to heat additional space.

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Kate Gould is an award-winning garden designer with more than a decadeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hands-on experience transforming gardens of all sizes. www.kategouldgardens.com

There has been a trend for some time now towards much more naturalistic planting. Softer, lighter and more ephemeral with a preference for perennials and bulbs over shrubs. A garden realistically needs both though to create balance. The shrubs add bulk and scale and act as a foil to lighter planting so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do away with them at all, perhaps just use lighter forms; Euonymus, Rosa mutabilis, Cercis and Cornus sanguinea all work well in conjunction with grasses and perennials.

Meadow planting with wild flowers is not easy and certainly not low maintenance although it is often labelled as so. A meadow takes dedication and often is unsuccessful due to the ground it is sowed over (meadow planting loves a thin, poor soil and hates competition) so over the years if this light effect is what a client desires but they do not have the right conditions or space then I have found that ornamental grasses work equally as well, require little care and last beautifully through the winter months.

Calamagrostis, Panicum, Stipa, Molinia and Pennisetum create beautifully soft waving drifts when planted en masse that morph from the greenest greens in the spring and summer through to bleached blond as the year progresses. Team them with Allium in bold drifts or inter-plant with Aquilegia, Astrantia, Sedum and late flowering Aster varieties to add colour. Naturalistic gardening just got easier!

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ARTS

THE ARTS COLUMN

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

waiting for that specific moment, are some of the factors that give Clare’s work a sense of urgency and reality.

As the beginning of the year brings a colder climate, so why not warm and feed your soul with a feast of visual splendour that is currently on offer at the superb Rye Art Gallery in East Sussex? Home to an inspiring display of regularly changing contemporary art and craft and a fine Permanent Collection of national importance, the gallery is a wonderful combination of the creative past and present. From 2 January – 2 April you can browse an impressive selection of new work in their latest show, Gallery Favourites.

Equally full of life are the works from national favourite Richard Adams. Wonderful genre paintings in pastel, depict the many faces of the English landscape and seaside. Exuding warmth and humour each piece tells a story and reflects a bygone age that still prevails in a time and world of speed and technology.

Representing a wealth of artists, the gallery has a huge range of styles, media and genre. This current collection of paintings, drawings, sculptures and ceramics, includes many from its regular artists. From the fantastically imaginative creations of Richard Adams to the beautifully ‘plein air’ observed landscapes of Clare Mitchell, there truly is something special for everyone. Clare Mitchell is a traditional landscape painter in oil. All of her work is completed in situ. Whatever the weather, all year round, Clare will travel by train, bus and foot to capture the most exhilarating and inspiring scenes. Often waiting for the tide to turn or the light to change, combatting the elements and

There are many artists displayed over the three galleries dedicated to this latest show. With a comprehensive collection of sculpture, paintings, printmaking and drawing, there is a diverse mix of colour, texture and shape that would satisfy the hungriest of visual appetites. Gallery Favourites 2 January - 2 April 2016 Galleries 1 - 3 and Gallery 4 Rye Art Gallery, 107 High Street, Rye, East Sussex, TN31 7JETel: 01797 222433 www.ryeartgallery.co.uk

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

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SHOWS

SPRING 2016

JUNE Sat 13th Tues 16th

SWEETSHOP Fri 19 June REVOLUTION

The Carpenters Story FRIDAY 29 JANUARY

SPRING SHOWCASE SATURDAY 13 FEBRUARY

U.DANCE EAST

SUNDAY 14 FEBRUARY

ALEXANDER WHITLEY

FRIDAY 26 FEBRUARY

NORTHERN BALLET Sat 11 July WEDNESDAY 23 MARCH

Fri 19th

Dancing Queen the Concert

NORA

Sat 20th

FRIDAY 1 APRIL

IGOR AND MORENO FRIDAY 15 APRIL

Sat 27th

MARK BRUCE COMPANY FRIDAY 22 & SATURDAY 23 APRIL

AVANT GARDE DANCE

JULY

Ultimate Elton & The Rocket Band - 7.30pm When You’re Smiling – 2.00pm The Carpenters Story – 7.30pm Dance House Presents – Catch A Rising Star – 2.30pm & 7.30pm The World’s Most Popular Musicals with The Westenders – 7.30pm

SHOWS

Dancing Queen The Concert – 7.30pm ENCORE DANCE TUESDAY 1 MARCH JUNE Derek Acorah – MONDAY 2 MAY The Psychic Ether Tour Sat 13th Ultimate Elton & The TOM DALE COMPANY JUNE BALLET BLACK 2015 – 7.30 pm Rocket Band - 7.30pm & MOKO DANCE Sat 13th Ultimate Elton & The FRIDAY 20 MAY Mon 27th BandJethro – 7.30pm FRIDAY 4 - SATURDAY 5 MARCH Tues 16th When You’re Smiling – Rocket - 7.30pm 2.00pm ARACALADANZA Tues 16th AUGUST When You’re Smiling – DANCEEAST DISTRICT Sat 11 July & MOKO DANCE Fri 19th The Carpenters Story – Fri 19 June 2.00pm PROjECT Fri Dancing 7th QueenChampions the Concert of Rock – The The Carpenters Story THURSDAY 26 – 7.30pm Fri 19th The Carpenters Story – Fri 19 June SATURDAY 12 MARCH Sat 11 July SATURDAY 28 MAY Supreme Queen Concert Sat 20th Dance House Presents Dancing Queen the Concert The Carpenters Story 7.30pm Show That’s Rocking the Fri 21 Aug Sat 29 Aug – Catch A Rising Star – Sat 20th Dance HouseNation Presents – 7.30pm Soul Legends Bublè Fever 2.30pm & 7.30pm – Catch A Rising Star – Sun 9th & 7.30pm You Are Invited to Marty Sat 27th The World’s Most Popular 2.30pm MacDonald’s Farm – Musicals with The Sat 27th The World’s Pongo’s Most Popular SHOWS Party – 2.00pm Westenders – 7.30pm Musicals with– The Starring the voices of Westenders – 7.30pm JULY Cbeebies Justin Fletcher FEBRUARY and Nicole Davis Sat 11th Dancing Queen The Mon 27 July Sun 9 Aug JULY Jethro Pongo’s Concert – 7.30pm Thurs 13thParty LDN Wrestling – Summer 16th -Queen 7.30pm LDN WRESTLING Sat 11th Tuesday Dancing The Mon 27 July Sun 9 Aug Derek Acorah – Showdown - 7.30pm Fri 17th Jethro Pongo’s Party Concert – 7.30pm Thurs18th - 1.30pm The Psychic Ether Tour Fri 14th Chas & Dave – 7.30pm Princes Theatre proudly supports Fri 17th Derek Acorah – & Fri 19th 10am & 1pm MISTER MAKER UK TOUR Sunday 21st February 2016 2015 – 7.30 pm The Clacton & Beach- Festival The Psychic Ether Tour MADAM Sea BUTTERFLY Sat 21st 15th- 7.30pmFreddieMADAM Starr – BUTTERFLY 7.30pm on 4th & 5th July 2015. Sunday Mon 27th Jethro – 7.30pm RUSSIAN STATE OPERA 2015 – 7.30 pm RUSSIAN STATE OPERA Fri 21st Soul Legends – 7.30pm Mon 27th Jethro – 7.30pm AUGUST Fri26th 28th- 7.30pm The Dreamboys – 7.30pm Friday TONY STOCKWELL Champions of Rock – The AUGUST Sat 29th Bublè Fever – StarringFri 7th Box Office: 01255 686633 Book Online: www.essex-live.co.uk Supreme Queen Concert Rickie Arthur – 7.30pm Fri 7th Champions of Rock – The MARCH www.tendringdc.gov.uk Show That’s Rocking the Fri 21 Aug Sat 29 Aug Queen Concert Supreme Nation – 7.30pm Soul Legends Bublè Fever Show That’s Rocking the Fri 21 Aug Sat 29 Aug Friday 4th - 7.30pm DR FEELGOODSun 9th You Are Invited to Marty Nation – 7.30pm Soul Legends Bublè Fever - 7.30pm MONDAY FOR NOTHING - MacDonald’s Farm – Sun 9th Saturday You5thAre Invited to Marty DIRE STRAITS TRIBUTE Pongo’s Party – 2.00pm MacDonald’s Farm – – Starring the voices of Friday 11th 7.30pm KING OF POP – THE LEGEND Pongo’s Party – 2.00pm Saturday 5th March 2016 Saturday 12th March 2016 Cbeebies Justin Fletcher – STARRING ‘NAVI’ – Starring the voicesCONTINUES of MONDAY FOR NOTHING AN EVENING WITH STEVE PARRISH and Nicole Davis Cbeebies Justin Fletcher Saturday 12th - 7.30pm AN EVENING WITH STEVE PARRISH Thurs 13th LDN Wrestling – Summer and Nicole Davis Friday 18th - 7.30pm THE BEE GEES STORY - Showdown - 7.30pm Box Office Thurs 13th LDN Wrestling – Summer NIGHTS ON BROADWAY Fri 14th Chas & Dave – 7.30pm Princes Theatre proudly supports 01255 686633 Showdown - 7.30pm Clacton Sea & BeachJOE Festival SaturdayThe 19th - 7.30pm LONGTHORNE Sat 15th Freddie Starr – 7.30pm Fri 14th Chas & Dave – 7.30pm Princes Theatre proudly supports on 4th & 5th July 2015. Book Online The Clacton Seawww.essex-live.co.uk & Beach Festival Fri 21st Soul Legends – 7.30pm Sat 15th Freddie Starr – 7.30pm on 4th & 5th July 2015. APRIL Fri 28th The Dreamboys – 7.30pm Fri 21st Soul Legends – 7.30pm www.tendringdc.gov.uk Sat 29th Bublè Fever – Starring Box Office: 01255Fri 686633 Book Online: www.essex-live.co.uk 28th Friday The Dreamboys – 7.30pm 1st - 7.30pm PASHA - IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU Rickie Arthur – 7.30pm Sat 29th Bublè Fever – Starring Box Office: 01255 686633 Book Online: www.essex-live.co.uk www.tendringdc.gov.uk Saturday 2nd -Arthur 7.30pm – 7.30pm THE THREE DEGREES Saturday 19th March 2016 Rickie Mon 27 July DANCE SPRINGS Jethro

FRIDAY Sun 9 Aug29 & SATURDAY 30 APRIL Pongo’s Party

www.tendringdc.gov.uk JOE LONGTHORNE

Sat 11th

SHOWSFri 17th

FEBRUARY

ARTS NEWS

Brick City’s first visit to East Anglia set to draw in the crowds Last month saw a ma jor Lego brick exhibition open at Moyse’s Hall Museum, in Bury St Edmunds.

Chris Morris: St Pancras

Brick City, which features over 60 scale replicas of famous buildings and landmarks from five continents, is built entirely out of one of this year’s top Christmas presents, Lego bricks. Featuring landmarks including The Olympic Stadium, Washington’s Lincoln Memorial, Rome’s Trevi Fountain and L’Arc de Triomphe in Paris, visitors will be able to view over 60 stunning Lego brick creations, including a spectacular 180,000 brick scale replica of St Pancras International Railway Station. The exhibition which runs until 24 April is expected to draw in visitors from across the region, as the display, which has attracted glowing reviews nationwide, visits East Anglia for the first time.

Glass Fair

Travelling light: a journey through Australia Creative and mixed artist Kathryn Moore from Peterborough will be showcasing a series of painted diaries recording the journeys through the Australian continent at an exhibition at The Yarrow Gallery in Oundle from 27 February to 12 March. The large exhibition features something for everyone with much to offer the senses as well as inspire, educate and humour. The works acknowledge the resourcefulness of the people by using found and recycled objects, and are accompanied by extracts from the diaries. The collection of paintings, pottery, prints, baskets, collages, textiles, installations and sculptures reference the colours, textures and most importantly ‘light’, of the landscape and all that is contained within it.

Glass Fair returns to Knebworth House The next Glass Fair at Knebworth House will take place on Sunday 21 February. With around seventy exhibitors and a special in-fair exhibition, this event is a must for all glass collectors and enthusiasts. The special exhibition, ‘Form, Function and the Midnight Sun’, will be focusing on some of the high quality glass produced in Sweden and Finland. The Scandinavian countries produced some of the greatest designers of the mid-twentieth century in all media, and glass was no exception. In this display, drawn from a private collection, visitors will find iconic pieces illustrating the differing artistic approaches taken by these innovative men and women to this material which lends and bends itself so perfectly to new forms. Open from 10.30am until 4.00pm, entry £5 with free entry to accompanied children under 16. Knebworth House, Stevenage SG1 2AX www.cambridgeglassfair.com

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LOOK 10 YEARS YOUNGER

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 an office in Woodbridge 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. 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

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RACE TO RIO

Meet Will Smith, a 19 year old Paralympian, based in Dereham, Norfolk, who will be using 2016 to improve himself within the senior wheelchair track athletics and setting his sights on the Rio Olympics just seven months away. Having been born with Spina Bifida, this didn’t stop Will from participating in wheelchair track athletics since the age of 10. Since 2009, Will has partnered and trained with legendary British Paralympian David Weir – the six-time Gold medalist – demonstrating his significant world class potential. The Weir protégé has a punishing regime, training five days a week for up to three hours at a time with his coach Jenny Archer at Wimbledon FC. With a support team of David and Jenny behind him, Will is set for a fruitful year in Paralympic sport. Will took time out of his schedule to talk about his progress so far and what he’ll be up to in 2016: Q. How has training been going so far? This is the first season in which I’ve had to manage a couple of injuries which have prevented me from training. However, I’ve had a solid block of training since August and my winter training so far has gone very well.

HEALTH

WILLSMITH’S Written by Liz Jane Mattock

Q. How did you first become involved in track? A charity called ‘Get Kids Going’ who continue to do so many good things for children with disabilities provided me with a second hand race chair for me go have a go in. I loved it and so I got my first custom made one after that. Q. How did you initially start training with David Weir? I met him in 2009 at a talent development camp, our now coach Jenny Archer asked if I’d like to come down for a few sessions with them and the rest is history! It doesn’t really get much better than David in wheelchair racing. Q. Where do you train? I train between Norwich and London where Jenny and David live. When I’m at home I use the UEA for track work, the roads around where I live and a strength and conditioning centre in Downham Market for my gym work. Q. What is your nutrition plan like? I’ve always been pretty sensible with my diet, I’m continually educated by a nutritionist about the right things to eat and when to eat them - it’s a vital aspect of my training in terms of fueling for training and recovery. I’m also sponsored by Herbalife - my favourite product is the new CR7 Drive sports drink which I use before and during training. Q. What are your favorite things about living in Norfolk? I think Norwich is a great city and so it’s good to have a place like that on our doorstep but at the same time there’s lots of nice, quiet countryside, so you get the best of both worlds living in Norfolk. Q. Finally, are you at the level of fitness you want to be at for Rio? I feel as though my fitness is as good as it’s ever been and I’m stronger than ever.

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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.

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SHOULD I FREEZE MY EGGS? NEW TECHNOLOGY Until recently there wasn’t the technology to freeze and thaw eggs safely. Ice crystals tended to form, causing damage to the cell. However a new procedure called vitrification is changing what’s possible. Vitrification offers a rapid way of freezing the egg, so there is no crystal formation and the eggs don’t lose their viability.

It’s long been known that trying to conceive in your twenties or early thirties gives a better chance of success, as once over 35, one-third of women experience fertility problems, rising to two-thirds when over forty. This tends to be because the number and quality of the eggs in the ovaries declines. For many women, their life journey means they aren’t in a position to start trying to conceive before 35, and developments in fertility are leading to an increasing number of women taking steps to prepare themselves for later family plans. Fertility treatment using frozen eggs is still a more experimental approach to fertility preservation with only a small number of live births in the UK. Success rates using frozen eggs have been very low in the past, but new procedures are seeing better results, leading to more women now exploring this process as an insurance, as it gives access to ‘young’ eggs, which are more fertile, to be used later in life. Facebook and Apple have taken the step to offer egg freezing for their women employees in the United States.

“ Once over 35, one-third of women experience fertility problems, rising to two-thirds when over forty!

“

Enquiries to IVF clinics about egg freezing has soared last year, with almost half coming from women aged over 35. But what is egg freezing? Why the sudden interest? And who should consider it and when? Andy Glew, Clinical Director at Simply Fertility (www.simply-fertility.com) in Chelmsford, Essex, explains.

Before undergoing this procedure, a very simple test is given to assess a woman’s ‘ovarian reserve’. A good indication is gained from a simple blood test to measure the level of a hormone produced in the ovaries called Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH) and an ultrasound scan of the ovaries.

The process, at a cost of approximately £5,000, sees the women go through stimulation and eggs are collected. Similar to a traditional IVF procedure, it requires a minor operation under sedation in which eggs are collected. Once the eggs are gathered, instead of being mixed with sperm, the unfertilised eggs are frozen. Its early days for vitrification and clinics are seeing success rates using frozen eggs of around 35 per cent. Official figures from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) have yet to catch-up and report on egg freezing using vitrification methods or report success figures by age of egg freeze.

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timing But when should a women make a move to freeze her eggs? Is it a case of the earlier the better? Well, although eggs are at their most fertile in a woman’s mid-twenties, freezing eggs even into a woman’s late thirties, there is still a greater chance of success for them should they then start a family in their early forties either naturally or using IVF. On the other hand, it may be that once ready to start a family the couple can conceive naturally, or even if fertility treatment is required, alternative approaches offer a greater chance of success. However, what is clear is that it is giving women another option to consider carefully. A driver for some is the monetary value of their eggs. Many clinics run egg share programmes, making IVF far cheaper. Women who freeze their eggs before their mid-thirties can often participate in such schemes later if required. Everyone’s situation, both medical and personal is unique. There is no one solution, but egg freezing does give another choice or option for women to help decide what’s best for them. I would encourage women to arm themselves with the facts, both about procedures, but also about their own fertility and make a decision that’s right for them.

DO you know ABOUT East Anglia Ultrasound Services? The service located on the High Street in Chesterton, Cambridge, offers early and reassurance pregnancy scans, anomaly 2D, 3D, 4D growth, gender and presentation scans, among many others. The practice is run by qualified sonographers with over 20 years of experience both in NHS and private practice, and has evening and weekend appointments available. www.eastangliaultrasound.co.uk

Thinking about IVF? Founded in 1980, Bourn Hall Clinic has a team of experienced healthcare professionals who will support and guide you through a personal treatment plan. Clinics are available across the region including Cambridge, Colchester, King’s Lynn and Norwich. www.bourn-hall-clinic.co.uk

Looking at fertility treatments and egg freezing? Simply Fertility is part of The Fertility Partnership, one of the largest providers of IVF in the UK. Renowned for its quality of care, 99% of patients would recommend the clinics to family or friends. Simply Fertility, Chelmsford, offers a wide range of services from fertility assessment through to IVF/ICSI, egg donation, sperm donation and egg freezing. www.simply-fertility.com

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BECCLES & BUNGAY

Written by Kate Chaundy

If you are planning a weekend away, why not try the neighbouring old market Suffolk towns of Beccles and Bungay, a few miles south of Norwich. Approximately six miles apart, both lie in the Waveney valley and there’s plenty to see and do. The markets are a good place to start. Both have existed for hundreds of years and are bustling days for local traders selling local produce, cheeses and gifts and always in good spirit. Bungay’s market is on a Thursday and Beccles’ on a Friday. In Bungay’s town centre stands St Mary’s church whose tower can be seen for miles around. This beautiful town is steeped in history and a must-do is to visit the ruins of Bigod’s castle, named after a powerful Norman family who assisted King William with his Conquest in 1066.

How aboat it? You can’t visit either town without making the most of the glorious Suffolk Broads, part of the Broads National Park, a conservation area. Although the summer season is its busiest, don’t let the colder months put you off. Based in Beccles, local company Hippersons (www.hippersons.co.uk) have a fleet of boats and advise you on routes along the Broads linked by rivers and waterways. Similarly, the Big Dog Ferry (www.bigdogferry.co.uk) offers a 40-minute boat journey along the River Waveney with plenty of wildlife on view. Alternatively, if you’d rather stick to land, the area offers a variety of walks, in particular the Beccles Marsh Trail, a popular series of walks and cycle routes. (www.visitbeccles.co.uk/walks-trails)

Where to stay Beccles’ pretty centre boasts an unusual octagonal town hall, and for the brave hearted, the nearby Roos Hall is said to be the most haunted house in England.

The Swan House in Beccles is situated in the heart of the town and offers luxury bed and breakfast. It’s a great place to plan your exploration of the Suffolk coast whether in front of the open fire or while al-fresco dining in the summer. (www.swan-house.com/boutique-hotel-beccles) If you can get a booking, a popular recommendation from readers is the two bedroomed Plantation Farmhouse B&B, just three miles from Bungay offering a real country feel. Surrounded by fields and woodland, its gardens are a haven for wildlife with birdsong being one of the few sounds you can hear. The Tudor house with large Victorian additions has been completely refurbished and has been named as one of the 12 smartest B&B’s in the UK by Tatler Magazine. (www.plantationfarmhouse.co.uk)

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www.all-hallows.org.uk

A range of exercise classes run by our Physiotherapy team in the gym at Hallows Hospital in Ditchingham.

New Year, Healthier You

Starting Monday 18th January Beginner Exercise Class. 3.00-4.00pm every Monday for 6 weeks. Ideal for individuals with mobility problems. £40 for all 6 sessions. Starting Tuesday 19th January Intermediate Exercise Class. 1.30-2.30pm every Tuesday for 6 weeks. £40 for all 6 sessions. Starting Wednesday 20th January Core Stability Class . 4.00-5.00pm every Wednesday for 6 weeks. Focusing on the deep postural muscles of your body to improve your posture, overall strength and stability. £40 for all 6 sessions. Starting Friday 15th January Bollywood Core Exercise Class . 4.30pm-5.30pm every Friday for 6 weeks. Exercise your body whilst learning to Indian Dance. £20 for all 6 sessions. For further information and booking please contact the team. T: 01986 892728 | E: physio@all -hallows.org.uk Daycare | Homecare | Hospital | Nursing Home Occupational Therapy & Physiotherapy | Specialist Care Home

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Hungry in Bungay

Last year, The Suffolk Stonehouse, with its Georgian cellar, was voted Best Independent Pizza Restaurant (www.suffolkstonehouse.co.uk). Or why not give the 16th Century Castle Inn on Earsham Street a try? This gastro pub was recommended in the Michelin Guide and specialises in locally-produced produce. (www.thecastleinn.net). Or head to St Peter’s Brewery just outside the town for a brewery tour and to taste the various drinks brewed on-site – including a gluten-free ale! (www.stpetersbrewery.co.uk)

Bites in Beccles

The Bailey’s Deli on Hungate is a firm favourite with both locals and visitors and has a restaurant upstairs specialising in Spanish food (www.upstairsatbaileys.co.uk). Or try the new bar Graze at the White Horse (www.grazewhitehorse. co.uk) – perfect if you are a meat fan and there is a real emphasis on using local produce. For more information and a diary of events, head to www.visitsuffolk.co.uk Tourist Information Tel: 01502 713196

Kate Chaundy is a freelance journalist in Bedford alongside her work as a freelance consultant PR, working across the healthcare and lifestyle industries. Follow her on Twitter @chaunds

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

What’s on in Suffolk THEATRE & SHOWS 6-Feb Express Yo’Self !!! An upbeat raring to go show for all the family, featuring hip hop/street and contemporary dance routines to a variety of great chart topping songs old and new. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 6-Feb Frankie Boyle Frankie has written this new set not to tour, but as a response to Kendrick Lamar’s last album. After these stand-up performances the ball will very much be in Kendrick’s court. Come witness this harrowing onstage breakdown. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 7-Feb 25 Years of Reeves & Mortimer As always with Vic and Bob there will be some up-lifting moments, some musical moments, maybe some magic, several dancing styles, some show of physical strength but always some poignant moments. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 10-Feb Stewart Francis: Pun Gent The star of ‘Mock The Week’, ‘Michael McIntyre’s Roadshow’ and ‘Live At The Apollo’, embarks on a brand new stand up tour with a fantastic and hilarious new show! Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100 www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 11-Feb Katherine Ryan - Kathbum Hot on the heels of a complete sell-out UK and Australian tour, Katherine hits the road with another terrific comedy show. Put this at the top of your ‘must see’ list for this year’s comedy diary. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 12-Feb Jenny Eclair 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! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 12-Feb With Love from Suffolk In the vein of multi-stranded films such as Love Actually a feature film of eight short romantic tales. Set entirely within Suffolk, it is not just a funny and tender exploration of relationships, drama and romance but also a love letter to our magnificent county. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 16-19 Feb Land of Our Fathers 3 May 1979, South Wales. Margaret Thatcher is counting her votes, Sid Vicious is spinning in his grave and six

Welsh miners are trapped down a coal mine. As the men await their rescue, secrets emerge and accusations fly. Within two weeks, everything they believe in and everything they know will have changed. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 17-Feb Pet Monster and Me One day, Sophie Bucket finds an unusual egg on her farm. Before long it starts to hatch and out pops a baby monster who doesn’t stay little for very long! Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 18-Feb Sid’s Show Join Sid from Cbeebies live on stage in a fantastic fun-filled adventure that’ll knock your socks off! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 18-20 Feb Betrayal Harold Pinters remarkable play explores how our loves and our losses echo and accumulate through time. Beginning after the end of the affair, Betrayal pursues an intricate, gripping journey back to its very beginning. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 19 -20 Feb Secondary Cause of Death Inspector Pratt arrives at Bagshot House with grim news for Colonel Craddock, but that’s just the beginning. Who is the strange Polish Count? Is Henrietta really an army Captain? How does the eccentric thespian, Longfellow fit in to the equation? These are just some of the characters who make Pratt’s return a chaotic nightmare as the bodies pile higher and higher. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 24-25 Feb A Clown Extravaganza! Clown Gathering 2016 presents a sponge sandwich, a collective congregation, a sardine tin, an eclectic mix of international performance and clown. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 25-27 Feb The Birthday Party By turns, cryptic thriller and macabre comedy, The Birthday Party was Harold Pinter’s first ma jor work and is among the most unusual and absorbing of his plays. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 25-Feb As You Like It With her father the Duke banished and in exile, Rosalind and her cousin Celia leave their lives in the court behind them and journey into the Forest of Arden. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org

26-Feb The Shakespeare Delusion ‘The Shakespeare Delusion’ by multi award-winning writer and performer Robert Crighton Professor Ashborn invites you to share in his latest discoveries and lead you through the terrible secrets behind the man people call Shakespeare. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 27-Feb Whiskey, Tango, Foxtrot Based on Rebecca’s time in the Royal Air Force serving queen and country protecting the UK Air Defence Region, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot charts her journey from basic training to the Falkland Islands. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 29 Feb - 5 Mar Flare Path Highly-charged drama with a truly authentic taste of fear, camaraderie and passion combine when an unexpected and dangerous mission over Germany puts Patricia at the centre of an emotional conflict as unpredictable as the war in the skies. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org MUSIC 4-Feb The Royal Opera House presents: La Traviata Verdi’s tragic opera of a Parisian courtesan who sacrifices all for love is vividly told in Richard Eyre’s production. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 4-Feb Mozart by Memory Aurora Orchestra perform Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 entirely from memory; no music, no music stands and no chairs either! Aurora Orchestra played to great acclaim at both the 2014 and 2015 BBC Proms. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds , IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 5-Feb Live from Broadway – Rent Jonathan Larson’s musical, loosely based on Giacomo Puccini’s opera ‘La bohème’, won the 1996 Tony Award® for Best Musical and the 1996 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 6-Feb Tom Harrison & Cleveland Watkiss In a new project from London-based saxophonist Harrison, two instrumental personalities will interpret the music of the great Duke Ellington in this chordless lineup. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 6-Feb The 60s Britpop Girl Show A celebration of the songs and stories of the big four British female divas of the swinging sixties; Cilla Black, Dusty Springfield, Lulu and Sandie Shaw.

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Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 6-Feb East Anglia Chamber Orchestra Debussy’s Prelude a l’Apres Midi, Poulenc’s Concerto for 2 pianos (soloists - the Cann twins), Ravel’s Pavane pur un infant defunte and Ravel’s Mother Goose (complete ballet score). The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 7-Feb An Afternoon with Anita Harris ‘The Anita Harris ‘Matinee’ Show’ is a wonderful cocktail of song, glitz, chat and humour. With musical accompaniment, Anita sings songs such as ‘Memory’, ‘All That Jazz’ & ‘Route 66’ and reveals wonderful anecdotes from her life in showbusiness. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 12-Feb T.Rextasy Truly a rock’n’roll concert for all ages – if you would like to know exactly what a Marc Bolan concert was like in the 1970s, this show is for you! Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 12-Feb Fairport Convention Annual visit by folk-rock veterans. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 13-Feb An Evening with Anita Harris An ‘Evening with Anita Harris’ is a wonderful cocktail of song, glitz, chat and humour. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 15-Feb Joe Brown in Concert Packed with timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk and rock ‘n’ roll, all interwoven with Joe’s effervescent delivery and humorous reminiscences, this sensational show is a musical journey not to be missed. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 17-Feb Academy of St Martin in the Fields ‘The Academy of St Martin in the Fields’ is one of the world’s premier chamber orchestras. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 20-Feb Sounds of the Glenn Miller Era Recapture the sounds of a bygone era. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 20-Feb St Edmundsbury Male Voice Choir Charity Concert for Nordoff Robbins, with special guest Laura Wright, the nation’s sporting soprano. The choir has a wide repertoire of songs, from 1940s swing, Welsh hymns, spirituals & folk songs to musical theatre & chart hits. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 20-Feb Toyah Live with Full Band Toyah is one of our most versatile and popular personalities whose vibrance and energy has won over many audiences in a career spanning 39 years. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org

23-24 Feb Carmen Opera Up Close returns to the Theatre Royal for the third year with their new English version of Bizet’s wildly popular opera. Carmen captivates and provokes, disturbing the composure of everyone she encounters. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds , IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 23-27 Feb Sound of Music Based on Baroness Maria von Trapp’s 1949 autobiography, this wonderfully lavish new staging of The Sound of Music tells the true story of the world-famous singing family, from their romantic beginnings and search for happiness, to their thrilling escape to freedom as their beloved Austria becomes part of the Third Reich at the start of WWII. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 22-27 Feb Footloose The Musical With a dynamic cast, this fast-paced show is not only packed full of amazing dance but serves up some classic 80s hits, including Holding Out for a Hero, Almost Paradise, Let’s Hear it for the Boy and of course the unforgettable title track Footloose. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 28-Feb The Rhythm Of Life ‘The Rhythm of Life’ is an extravaganza of music and dance through the years. Songs from all decades and genres, from musicals to rock classics. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 2-28 Feb Royal Photographic Society Exhibition of work taken by photographers from across the East Anglia region of the Royal Photographic Society. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 3-Feb How do colour and light make an object work? A focus on how light and colour are used to organize an image, create style, and at the different meanings a colour (white, pink, blue, red) may hold. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 www.newcut.org 9-Feb The River Waveney And It’s Wildlife Local naturalist and Chairman of the River Waveney Trust Association now living in Kessingland, has specialised interests in many aspects of nature and wildlife and gives wildlife talks on all aspects of natural history all over , Norfolk and Suffolk. The Seagull 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 18-Feb The Gambia – Our Birds are their Birds - A Talk by Roger Walsh Roger shares with the highlights, challenges and successes of a ground-breaking bird study project based at Kartong Bird Observatory on the southern border of The Gambia and Senegal. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 22-Feb Exhibition on Screen: Renoir He is one of the most fiercely debated artists and yet one of the most influential. Picasso collected more Renoirs than any other artist. Matisse revered him. Monet

too. He was was instrumental in creating the Impressionist movement and then rejected it and went in a completely new direction - with extraordinary results. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 24-Feb The World in 100 Paintings This group of 5 sessions follows the same format as ‘Art Appreciation for All’. An introductory lecture will feature all 100 paintings and fit them into a time line of historical events, changing styles and some stories behind each piece. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123. www.newcut.org SPECIAL EVENTS 4-Feb Harry Potter Book Night Calling all witches, wizards and muggles - this magical over 18s event will delight and test even the most dedicated Harry Potter fans, with cocktails, creatures and costume. Ipswich Museum, High Street Ipswich, IP1 3QH. 01473 433550 www.cimuseums.org.uk/Ipswich-Museum 5-Feb Jazz By The Waterfront: Phoenix Jazz Band Beautiful original arrangements from the vaults of Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder alongside modern classics to create a truly unique mix. St Peter’s by the Waterfront, Ipswich 13-Feb 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 God. Come and explore what is behind a door for you. 10am-4.30pm. Tickets £12. All Hallows Convent, Belsey Bridge Road, Ditchingham, NR35 2DT. 01986 892749 www.all-hallows.org 27-Feb Mind, Body and Spirit Fair An inspiring and energising day with tarot and medium readings, taster therapies, bespoke hand crafted jewellery and gifts. Needham Market Community Centre, School Street, Needham Market, IP6 8BB AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 7-Feb Suffolk The Famous Copdock Antiques & Collectors Fair Dealers from Suffolk, Essex and beyond will be selling a wide range of fascinating items. The Cameo Hotel, Old Ipswich Road, Copdock, IP8 3JD 01702 410171 14-Feb Suffolk Antiques & Collectors Fair Antiques and collectors fair in the beautiful village of lavenham 9.30 - 4pm. Entry £1. Lavenham Village Hall, Lavenham, CO10 9QT 20-21 Feb Clare Antiques Fair A great collection of antique and vintage dealers from all over the region. Offering glass, clocks, Moorcroft pottery, Clarice Cliff, 18th and 19th century porcelain, Books, 20th century collectables, vintage fashion, Gold, silver and a load more. Clare Town Hall, Market Hill, Clare, CO10 8NN. 07869 332245 27-28 Feb Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair An antiques and vintage fair with approx 30 dealers, held on the last weekend of every month. Open from 9.30am till 4pm. Free parking. The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX.

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W&M SMITH

A change in weather has coincided with the start of 2016. The first quarter of the year is very busy with Burns Night, St Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Easter all happening before the end of March. For the Scots January 25th is Burns Night and we have napkins in both Royal Stewart and Black Watch tartans and a wide variety of ribbons in several widths with wired and non-wired being an extra option. Silk thistles and heather are also stocked and as per usual a choice of colours and sizes. Love is in the air in February with Valentine’s Day on the 14th. Hearts in all sorts of materials, sizes and colours are in stock some open and some closed.

A huge selection of red roses as single stems, bunches or posies are available as well as some arranged as a candle ring or in a heart shape. You will not be spoilt for choice! To use as a wrapping there is cellophane with a Valentine’s theme or just a plain red dot as well as the usual clear options.

the new range of Vivid Art resin garden ornaments might just fit the bill, with the spring theme of ducks and ducklings, hens and chicks and rabbits or there is a choice of birds, either garden, birds of prey, parrots and budgies. Also dogs, cats, sheep and pigs are in the range.

Ribbon wise, here to you have a very varied choice from dots, hearts, ginghams, hessian or just a plain colour.

The Spring Room is filling up fast with the new seasonal products. We think we have put together another lovely selection to suit all tastes. So do not leave it too late to come along and see what we have on offer. We hope you like what you see!!

Just as February ends, Mother’s Day comes on the 6th March. So the stock will be changing very frequently at The Pightle Barn. New galvanised containers have just arrived to pot up with flowers or to fill with goodies to give to your Mum. Looking for a gift then

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DIARY DATES...

For a quiet, pint sized town, Dunmow has a lot on offer for its impressive 9,000 residents who currently reside there and visitors during 2016. Take your pick from this line-up of local events and news, coming to the town and surrounding area during the first six months of 2016:

LATEST ANNOUNCEMENTS: The Saracens Head Hotel The popular pub situated at the heart of Dunmow has plenty of money-saving offers. Get over Monday stress with its ‘Winter Warmer’ menu; a choice of dishes available with a pint or glass of wine for just £12. Thursday is half price fizz night and why not round-off the weekend with half price cocktails every Sunday? Plus there is a quiz held on the second Tuesday of the month. www.saracenshead-hotel.co.uk/home Mayor’s charity event at Foakes Hall The Mayor is holding a charity dinner dance on Saturday 20 February, tickets are available from the town council. There is also a printable list of events, coffee mornings, talks and sports clubs, some of which are new to the town for 2016. For more information visit www.dunmoweb.co.uk/diary

EVENTS Great Dunmow Market Every Tuesday Dunmow Book Fair at Foakes Hall Sat 6 Feb I Love To Boogie with T.Rextasy at Braintree Arts Theatre Fri 19 Feb The Rat Pack at Braintree Arts Theatre Fri 11 Mar I Feel Good at Braintree Arts Theatre Sat 7 May The Dunmow Flitch Trials Sat 9 July Written by Liz Jane Mattock | Image Credit: Georgina Caine

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WHY WE LOVE SAFFRON WALDEN Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here is how to make the most of Saffron Walden in just one afternoon…

WANDER AROUND Saffron Walden combines the best of both worlds. It’s where old meets new. You can often feel as though you’ve been transported to a time gone by while doing your grocery shopping. A wander around the cobbled streets, while popping into independent boutiques and admiring the historic architecture is a beautiful way to spend an hour or two. The market takes place on Tuesday and Saturday and offers a delightful mix of local produce, furnishings and crafts. After a browse, prop yourself up at the makeshift barrel table on the fish stall for cockles and a little tipple!

FOOD AND DRINK It’s quite easy to spend a whole afternoon simply eating in Saffron Walden. Timber-clad buildings host modern pubs and restaurants, while there’s the opportunity for tea and cake on almost every corner. If afternoon tea is more your thing head to Just Like Wendy’s, which is home to Eve’s Tearoom. A couple of minutes drive out of the town centre, towards the village of Newport, the store and tea room are a hidden treasure. Browse the interior showroom stacked with exquisite homeware and vintage finds, before warming up with a cup of tea and a slice of cake in the cosy tearoom next door.

A little further a field in Great Chesterford, is The Crown House Hotel. Set in a beautiful building dating back to Tudor times, the restaurant is a warm and cosy place for a spot of lunch or dinner (the Sunday lunch is exceptionally delicious). It also has rooms available for those looking to extend their stay.

GARDEN AND GREENERY Surrounded by beautiful Essex countryside, Saffron Walden has plenty of footpaths and country walks to offer. However, if you don’t fancy pulling on your wellies and trekking across the fields, pay a visit to Bridge End Garden. Hidden in the back streets of the town, the grade II listed space consists of seven interlinked gardens and popular hedge maze. The Turf Labyrinth, another maze which twists and turns, is sure to be a hit with children. The town will celebrate its maze culture with the third Saffron Walden Maze Festival from 19-21 August.

EXPLORE AUDLEY END A hit with both adults and children is the magnificent Audley End House & Gardens just outside Saffron Walden. Spend the afternoon wandering around the immaculately kept grounds, explore the Victorian service wing and visit the horses in the stable yard. There’s also a play area to keep the little ones entertained. The English Heritage site hosts a vibrant events calendar throughout the year. Make the most of the day with a visit to the Audley End Miniature Railway, located opposite. A massive hit with families, the railway trails through the forest where children can spot teddies that live in the woods.

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What’s on in Essex THEATRE & SHOWS 1-3 Feb Round And Round The Garden 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? Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk

12-Feb Brendan Cole: A Night to Remember Brendan, one of 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. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk

1-6 Feb Avenue Q Hilarious, cheeky and uproariously entertaining, with a terrific batch of songs performed by a cast of hugely talented performers and puppets, Avenue Q is the musical like no other. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk

12-Feb Tom Stade: You’re Welcome! Expect the brand new show customary Stade flair; uncompromising humour, insatiable mischief and heaps of inspired improvisation. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk

3-Feb Bound Driven by the hope of a better life, three vastly different characters find themselves bound to circumstances they would never have chosen, and must now decide to what extent they are defined, shaped or broken by them. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com

12-Feb The Bohemians - Live Queen The Bohemians re-enact the glory days of Queen. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk

5-Feb Chris Martin A brand new stand-up show accompanied by its own original soundtrack. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 8-Feb 25 Years of Reeves & Mortimer: The Poignant Moments As always with Vic and Bob there will be some up-lifting moments, some musical moments, maybe some magic, several dancing styles, some show of physical strength but always some poignant moments. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 10-Feb Bottleneck A vibrant coming-of-age story about becoming a man through adventures big and small. It is about a notorious city and football. How the world views it, and how it views the world. The Harlow Playhouse Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 11-Feb Brian Conley The multi-talented and irrepressible Brian Conley returns to the stage in this all-new show. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-20 Feb End of the Rainbow Mixing drama, comedy, and electrifying concert sequences, ‘End of the Rainbow’ has been greeted with standing ovations and 5-star reviews in 27 countries around the world. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

13-14 Feb The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark Based on the bestselling children’s classic by Jill Tomlinson. Follow Plop’s adventures as he journeys into the night-time world of campfires, fireworks, starry nights and moonlit adventures. This gentle, reassuring tale is brought to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and storytelling. Written especially for children aged 3-7, and grown up’s who still sleep with the light on. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 13-Feb Snow Child With atmospheric music by Ollie Birch, beautiful movement by Joanne Bernard and an inspired design brought to you by Kate Bunce, this promises to be a wonderland of poignant, inventive storytelling to enchant children and families. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 18-27 Feb Kiss Me Kate A backstage battle between former lovers Fred Graham and Lilli Vanessi spills onto stage as they mount a musical version of The Taming of the Shrew. And just when things couldn’t get worse, up pop a pair of gangsters who want a share of the limelight! Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 18-Feb Circus of Horrors The story twists and turns with grisly murders and sensational shock’s – all interwoven with some of the greatest and most bizarre circus acts on earth, performed by an almighty cast with a forked tongue firmly in each cheek and the devil-driven rock n’ roll of Dr Haze & The Interceptors from Hell. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA.

01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19-Feb The Railway Children The famous story of an Edwardian mother and her children, uprooted to the Countryside, captures the anxieties and exhilarations of childhood with great tenderness and insight. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 19-Feb Katherine Ryan: Kathbum Star of Live At The Apollo, QI and The Jonathan Ross Show, the razor sharp and hilariously funny Canadian returns with a highly anticipated new show. Hot on the heels of a complete sell-out UK and Australian tour, Katherine hits the road with another terrific comedy show. Put this at the top of your ‘must see’ list for this year’s comedy diary. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19-Feb Sid’s Show Sid is setting out on a heroic quest to find out where in the world his favourite socks and shoes have go to – share in the adventure at the bottom of the sea, deep in the jungle or floating in outer space you’ll meet some funny characters along the way. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 20-Feb The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark Plop is a baby Barn Owl. He lives at the top of a tall tree, in a field. He is fat and fluffy. He has big round eyes and very knackety knees. Plop is exactly the same as every barn owl that has ever been except for one thing. Plop is afraid of the dark. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354 www.braintreeartstheatre.com 26-Feb Tony Stockwell It’s Psychic Medium Tony Stockwell demonstrating his belief that those who have passed can communicate with their loved ones. Princes Theatre, Station Road Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633 www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 27-Feb Wilde Without The Boy The award-winning Wilde Without the Boy is a dramatisation of “De Profundis”, Oscar Wilde’s searing letter to his gay lover, written from Reading Gaol. Cramphorn Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 27-Feb This Is Our Life: The Musical A first class spectacular! There will be thrilling performances from the biggest and best Broadway and West End shows. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354 www.braintreeartstheatre.com

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29-Feb 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’. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk

Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk

21-Feb One Night of Queen ‘One Night of Queen’ is a spectacular live concert, recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of arguably the greatest rock band of all time. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 MUSIC www.southendtheatres.org.uk 4-Feb Jack Sings Sinatra Jack Jones is the double Grammy-win21-Feb Swing ning, easy listening giant, nominated Swing-a-long with songs from Frank by Frank Sinatra as “one of the ma jor Sinatra, Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald singers of our time.” Cliffs Pavilion, and Glenn Miller. Featuring Chris Smith Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. from the Herb Miller Big Band (Glenn’s 01702 351135. brother), plus Tony Bennett’s tromwww.southendtheatres.org.uk bonist. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 4-Feb Madam Butterfly www.queens-theatre.co.uk Regarded as one of the most successful operas in history, ‘Madame Butterfly’ 22-27 Feb Thriller Live tells the intense emotional story of You will experience over two hours of love, crushed amidst two very different non-stop hits from pop to rock, soul cultures, retaining the audience’s concento disco as the cast play homage to tration while lifting their imaginations, as Jackson’s legendary live performances emotions are stirred by the power of the and innovative dance moves executed music and words. The Harlow Playhouse, with flair, precision and passion. Cliffs Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 5-6 Feb Lee Memphis King, One Night of Elvis 22-Feb Pop Up Bowie This new production for 2015 covers the Front man, Paul Antony, a huge fan of legendary ’68 Comeback Special and the Bowie, accurately portrays the charepic Vegas years. Featuring new songs ismatic performance of his hero. He and stunning costumes, ‘One Night of performs the show backed by a fantastic Elvis’ remains the most authentic and band of experienced, pro musicians popular production around. The Harlow to provide a pulsating night of pure, Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow authentic Bowie! Mercury Theatre, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT www.playhouseharlow.com 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 5-Feb Think Floyd These masterpieces will be performed 24-Feb The ELO Experience from start to finish, along with the whole A sensational tribute to The Electric Light range classic Pink Floyd from Syd Barrett Orchestra. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, through to The Division Bell. Mercury Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 1PT. 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 25-Feb The Barron Knights Probably the most entertaining group 7-Feb The Simon & Garfunkel Story to come out of the 60s and 70s, their Using huge projection photos and musicianship, harmonies and humour original film footage, this 50th make them ‘The Guvnors’. The Harlow anniversary celebration also features Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow a full live band performing all the hits. CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, www.playhouseharlow.com Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk.org.uk 26-Feb T.Rextasy Described by many as ‘beyond the 14-Feb Rose-Marie boundaries of tribute’, join these talented Hailed as The Irish Bette Midler, Rose-Mamusicians for a truly rock’n’roll concert rie returns to the Palace Theatre for a for all ages. The Harlow Playhouse, Valentine special celebration concert, Playhouse Square, Harlow singing classics such as, When You’re CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 Old Wedding Ring Was New, When I www.playhouseharlow.com Leave The World Behind, The Answer, Boots Are Made For Walking, So Lucky 28-Feb Best of British together with songs from her new album. Celebrate the much-loved music and Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, stories of British composers Noël Coward, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 Ivor Novello, Andrew Lloyd Webber and www.southendtheatres.org.uk Vivian Ellis. Songs include Mad Dogs and Englishmen, Nina from Argentina, I’ll See 15-Feb The Classic Rock Show You Again, We’ll Gather Lilacs and many Celebrating their sixth year, this critically more. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, acclaimed show will toast the occasion Hornchurch RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 in the best possible fashion, with some www.queens-theatre.co.uk of the greatest moments in rock guitar history. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 1 Feb - 12 Mar Evolution: It’s Behind www.southendtheatres.org.uk You! Paintings and Drawings by Martin Huxter 18-Feb The Elvis Years on the theme of Evolution. Beecroft An outstanding musical production which Art Gallery, Victoria Avenue, Southbrings to the stage the incredible and end-on-Sea SS2 6. 01702 434449 compelling story of the ‘king of rock www.southendmuseums.co.uk and roll’ - Elvis Presley. Civic Theatre,

11-Feb Behind the Scenes in Southend Museum’s EKCO Radio Store Join Clare Hunt, curatorial manager for a behind the scenes tour in the EKCO radio store at the Museums off-site stores. Central Museum, Victoria Avenue Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6EW. 01702 212345. www.southendmuseums.co.uk 25-Feb History of Rippers Ltd. with Adrian Corder-Birch Discover the history of the firm in this talk, which will be followed by a reunion for former employees, associated companies and other interested parties. Tickets £3. Braintree Museum, Manor Street, Braintree, CM7 3HW 01376 328868. www.braintreemuseum.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 6-Feb Debden Barns Farmers Market Located in marquees next to the Cafe, it is a great place to bring the whole family. Enjoy a mix of local produce. There is plenty of space for the kids to run around, with swings and climbing frames. Debden Barn, Elder Street, Debden, CB11 3JY. 01799 544 018 www.debdenbarns.co.uk 7,14 & 21 Feb Sunday Snowdrops The slopes of the motte and bailey of the Castle wreathed in 13 varieties of snowdrops, café and Castle open. Hedingham Castle, Baley Street, CO9 3DJ. 01787 460261 www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk 17-19 Feb Mouse Church Hall A special event where young children are encouraged to take a mouse eye’s view of this ancient building with its historic settings. Discover the mice in the different rooms and listen to mousethemed stories in the kitchen. Older children are equally welcome and will be offered a quiz and trail around the house. Suitable for children from toddlers to teens! Southchurch Hall, Southend www.southendmuseums.co.uk 24-Feb Crafts in the Park Come rain or shine, bring a grown up and a picnic to Colchester Castle park and enjoy free recycled craft activities. Meet at the gazebo next to the play area or at the Rangers Station in bad weather between 12noon and 2pm on Wednesdays, all year round. Castle Park, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1TJ. 075076 65866. www.visitcolchester.com AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 7-Feb Cliffs Pavilion Antiques and Collectors Fair The fair attracts dealers and buyers from far afield. 9.30am - 4.30pm. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea SS0 7RA, 01702 351135 20-21 Feb Chelmsford City Racecourse Indoor/Outdoor Antiques Inside stalls in the plush grandstand and for February outside undercover pitches. Chelmsford City Racecourse, Braintree Road (A131) Chelmsford, CM3 1QP 01702 410171 21-Feb Chelmsford Antiques & Collectables Fair Antiques and collectables. Free Parking. 10am-3.30pm. Entry £1. Chelmsford City Football Club, Salerno Way, Chelmsford, CM1 2EH. 077809 71214 www.southendtheatres.org.uk

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ST IVES

St Ives is a wonderful riverside town, tourist centre and thriving community. Located just off the A14, six miles from Huntingdon and 12 miles from Cambridge on the banks of the river Great Ouse. The Guided Bus Way provides an easy access route from Cambridge with busses running on a regular basis. Its shopping centre has a good mix of independent traders and multinationals. The original character is retained with regular markets held every Monday and Friday with Bank Holiday markets being very popular. On the first and third Saturdays of each month an excellent Farmer’s Market takes place.

Out and about A focal point is the splendid 15th Century Bridge and chapel over the river and is one of only three such surviving bridges in England. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, the Ouse Washes Landscape is only a heartbeat away. Explore the vast river network by hiring a boat from St Ives or come face to face with amazing wildlife at nearby RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes and RSPB Ouse Fen.

Written by Liz Jane Mattock

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

A quick guide to

Only a short hop on a local bus or via car will get you to Cambridge itself with a vast offering of activities and events. Punting, bus and bike tours all allow you to experience Cambridgeshire in style. Cambridge itself, has a full calendar of events, festivals and attractions that make it ideal to visit all year round – a destination for all seasons. The city is hard to beat for a weekend away or a longer stay; there is always something to see and do with a choice of activities to satisfy all ages, every budget and interest.

Staying over? There is a range of accommodation available in the town as well as surrounding villages, but vacancies fill up quickly due to the popularity of the area, so book your stay early to avoid disappointment. Try the Dolphin Hotel for a riverside stay or the grand Golden Lion Hotel, an independently run hotel housed in a 18th century building in the heart of the town. For more information on St Ives and its surrounding towns and villages, visit www.visitcambridge.org Image credit: David Savell

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What’s on in Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 1-6 Feb Confusions Each of the one-act plays connect to the next through a singular character in Alan Ayckbourn’s most popular and well studied plays, Confusions. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 3-6 Feb Xylophone ‘Xylophone’ is a brand new sketch show in alphabetical order. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 7-Feb Handa’s Hen Based on the book by Eileen Browne, this beautiful and engaging show features 55 stunning puppets all created by hand for this brand new production. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 9-13 Feb The White Devil Set in contemporary Russia, this modern production of Webster’s The White Devil entertains the clashes of political ambition, infidelity, murder, corruption and above all revenge within the atmospheric confines of the Russian Orthodox Church and the cold streets of an oligarchy’s Machiavellian Moscow. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 10-13 Feb Measure for Measure Shakespeare’s gripping drama of lust and repression is brought vividly to life by the Marlowe Society, Cambridge University’s leading drama society. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 10-Feb BANFF Mountain Film Festival Follow the expeditions of some of today’s most incredible adventurers, see amazing footage of adrenaline packed action sports and be inspired by thought-provoking pieces shot from the far flung corners of the globe. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

days - let your hair down and book now! Cambridge Corn Exchange , 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 16-20 Feb Peter Grimes Based on the beloved poem by George Crabbe, then made famous by Benjamin Britten’s opera, this new telling of the Grimes myth uses the death of a child to explore the dark and primal side of humanity, focused through an individual whose vicious isolation has troubled generations of writers. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 18-20 Feb Around the World in 80 Days Join Phileas Fogg and his faithful servant Passepartout in their audacious plan to navigate the globe in just 80 days. With only a bag full of money, a pocket watch and a wager to win, Fogg sets out on the most celebrated literary journey of all time. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 21-Feb Brian Conley: Alive and Dangerous The multi-talented and irrepressible Brian Conley returns to the stage in this all-new show. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 21-Feb Chris Ramsey: All Growed Up Join him as he explores getting older, taking responsibility, realising you are no longer a child and all of the other terrifying realisations that come with being dragged kicking and screaming into modern adulthood. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 21-Feb At the End of Everything Else When her best friend (a little yellow bird named Tito) goes missing, Icka puts her inventive mind to the test and sets off on a mission over land and sea to save him. But nothing can prepare her for what she finds… a problem that she is unable to fix alone. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk

13-Feb The Money ‘The Money’ is a cross between a game and a theatrical performance. You can choose to be either a Silent Witness and watch or a Benefactor and take part in coming to a unanimous decision about how to spend a pot of real cash. If you decide before the clock ticks down then you get to spend it, if not it rolls over to a new group. Cambridge Guildhall, Market Square, Cambridge

22-24 Feb Shafted! Fuelled with eye watering honesty and true Yorkshire grit, this is an hilarious account of those whose jobs had been taken, and communities destroyed, and how they fought back after being shafted! Key Theatre, Embankment Road Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com

15-20 Feb Hairspray: The Musical With an all-star cast to be announced, Hairspray is an irresistible feel-good show that will have you smiling for

22-27 Feb Showstopper! The Improvised Musical This incredible comedy troupe never fail to impress as they create shows packed with drama, dazzling dance routines

and catchy melodies, leaving delighted audiences singing all the way home. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 23-Feb I validate you An evening of new writing, ‘I Validate You,’ explores the increasingly relevant subject of Mental Health in order to raise awareness and stamp out stigma. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 23-27 Feb The Flick ‘The Flick’ is a hilarious and heart rendering cry for authenticity in a fast changing world. ADC Theatre, Park Street Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com 26-Feb Comedy Club 2016 Peterborough’s longest running Comedy Club returns for 2016 with a great new line-up. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 28-Feb Footlights Join ‘Footlights’ for two nights as they showcase original sketches, songs and stand-up from some of the country’s finest student comedians. Early booking is highly recommended. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 29-Feb The Trials of Galileo In this reprimand by Pope Urban is Galileo’s tragedy, a mistaken belief that if he supplied the church with proof, he would enlighten the world while escaping persecution. He understood the science better than any man alive, but never grasped the politics. Until it was too late. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www2.anglia.ac.uk MUSIC 4-Feb Paul Carrack Legendary Sheffield-born singer, songwriter and former frontman of Ace, Squeeze and Mike & The Mechanics returns to the road with his band in early 2016. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 5-Feb European Union Chamber Orchestra Catrin Finch is one of the most accomplished harpists of her generation and teases out all the sensuality of Mozart’s sublime Concerto for Flute and Harp before doing justice to the rich harmonics of Debussy’s Danses Sacre et Profane. Haydn’s Symphony No.55 is richly textured and playful; the dotted rhythm of the second movement reminiscent of

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ST E E P H I L L â&#x20AC;˘ L I NC OL N

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the wagging finger of a schoolmaster, from which the Symphony derives its nickname. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 791791 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 5-6 Feb Motown’s Greatest Hits - How Sweet It Is The ultimate celebration of the sweet sound of Motown, now in its 13th successive year, this stunning show combine’s first class music together with the slickest choreography, to deliver truly outstanding performances. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 5-Feb King Of Pop The Legend Continues This superb production stars ‘Navi’ who is officially recognised as the world’s No.1 Michael Jackson tribute artist. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 12-Feb Supreme Queen Featuring an enormously talented band including Nathan Mathers who brings all the electric guitar virtuosity required to play a very convincing Brian May, their attention to detail is truly impressive. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 12-Feb The Fiver A longstanding Cambridge Junction event offering emerging bands the opportunity to play on the J1 stage. Come and vote for your favourite! The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge , CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 13-Feb Gerry Cross the Mersey 2016 Join in this musical journey through the life and times of one our greatest 60s icons - Gerry Marsden. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 13-Feb City of Cambridge Symphony Orchestra The concert starts with two firm favourites, Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and Richard Strauss’s ‘Four Last Songs’. The surprise is Strauss’s suite for orchestra, based on his opera, Der Rosenkavalier. It’s a stunning orchestral showcase, sure to send a tingle up spines. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge CB3 9DP. 01223 335184 www.westroad.org 18-Feb Spectacular 60s ‘The spectacular 60s’ show will be the one 60s show not to missed as you sit back and enjoy hit after hit after hit, from the golden era of pop. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 19-Feb Savages Savages’ second album Adore Life was recorded in RAK Studios, London in April 2015. Johnny Hostile was the producer and Richard Woodcraft the engineer. Anders Trentemøller took care of the mixing in Copenhagen. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 22-Feb Kodo One Earth Tour Twinning contemporary music and dance

based on traditional Japanese arts, the production is directed by Tamasaburo Bando (one of the most celebrated Kabuki actors) and expresses the Japanese sensation of ‘mystery’ defined by a dynamic taiko drumming performance. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 24-Feb Endellion String Quartet Webern’s five pieces are a miracle of brevity and expressiveness — they last just eight minutes! And in the second half plays the first of Beethoven’s quartets dedicated to Count Razumovsky (what a lucky man!), a symphony in all but name. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184 www.westroad.org 25-Feb The ELO Experience ‘The ELO Experience’ are the world’s foremost tribute to The Electric Light Orchestra. With a sensational string section, a stunning light show and large screen projection to further enhance the experience, why not come along and enjoy this incredible show which accurately reproduces the songs and sounds and takes you on a magical musical journey through time. Cambridge Corn Exchange 3 Parson’s Court, Cambridge, CB2 3QE 01223 791791. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 26-Feb Barry Steele as Roy Orbison in ‘The Orbison Story’ 2016 marks Roy Orbison’s 80 Birthday, and to mark this special year we are proud to present our brand new show. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 28 Jan - 21 Feb Own Art 2016 Have you ever wanted to own an amazing piece of original art? Well now you can with the help of the Own Art Scheme. It makes buying art easy and affordable and softens the blow when it comes to paying. It enables you to spread the cost of your purchase over 10 months with an interest free loan. Throughout February the gallery will be hosting a contemporary art exhibition dedicated to promoting this ingenious scheme. Artists on display differ in price and medium but can all be bought on Own. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk 1 Feb - 30 Nov 2017 Henry Moore’s Hill Arches (1973) For the next two years a monumental bronze sculpture by Henry Moore, titled Hill Arches, will be on loan to the Fitzwilliam Museum from the Henry 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 2 Feb - 8 May Crawling with Life: Flower drawings from the Henry Rogers Broughton Bequest See superb watercolours by the intrepid 17th century German naturalist and illustrator, Maria Sibylla Merian and her

tutor Jacob Marrel, as well as works by the Dutch artist Jan van Huysum and members of the Dietzsch family. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 4 Feb - 30 Dec Celebrating the First 200 Years: The Fitzwilliam Museum 1816 - 2016 Running throughout 2016, this exhibition will explore the Fitzwilliam’s past, present and future. A timeline of the first 200 years will introduce key themes and characters, while displays of objects will show how the collections have developed over two centuries. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 25 Feb - 20 Mar Seascape Exhibition ‘Seascape’ is an exhibition showcasing talented contemporary artists featuring their illuminating seascapes. A new art exhibition for the Cambridge gallery, there will be a range of original paintings with artists including Jessica Oliver, Wendy Mcbride and Felicity Keefe. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 1-28 feb Floodlit Swan Feed Learn about the swans at the live commentary and then watch as the wardens feed the birds their supper, illuminated by the floodlights. Visitors enjoy watching the feed from the comfort of the centrally heated main observatory. Every Sunday, Thursday and Friday evening at 6.30pm. WWT Welney Wetland Centre, Hundred Foot Bank, Welney 6-Feb Ely Craft & Collectables Market Every Saturday the Craft & Collectables Market is on Ely Market Place with a fantastic range of gifts, collectables, antiques, arts and crafts from local artists. Ely Market Place, Ely 6-Feb Saint’s Crafters Craft Fair Popular craft fair held every month selling high quality and some unusual homemade arts & crafts, with free entry. Free Church, Market Hill, St Ives, PE27 5AL 12-17 Feb e-Luminate Cambridge Festival 2016 During six exceptional evenings, the e-Luminate Cambridge Festival, will offer the public a spectacle creating ephemeral light art installations in the richness and diversity of the urban landscape, and completely transforming the city. Cambridge, CB2 3PQ www.e-luminatefestivals.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 13-14 Feb St Ives Antiques Fair The St Ives Antiques Fair is a two-day event, As well as providing a spacious hall for around 55 specialist dealers, there is free parking and on-site catering. Admission £2. The Burgess Hall (One Leisure), Westwood Road, St Ives, PE27 6WU. 01480 896866 27-28 Feb Antiques, Collectors & Vintage Weekend Stallholders will fill the many rooms and hallway with a wide and exciting variety of items to suit most tastes & budgets. Holmewood Hall, Church Street, Holme, PE7 3BZ. 07772 349431

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NORFOLK

SECRET NORFOLK Life in a Fine County Written by Nicole Ranaweera

The many independent shops that line the lanes of Norwich and surrounding market towns are a large part of Norfolk’s charm. Read on to find that original gift or unique item with my pick of local shopping treasures:

For the book lover… Described by Stephen Fry as “The kind of place I dreamt of existing when I was younger”, The Book Hive is my idea of heaven. It not only stocks books you wouldn’t necessarily find elsewhere but is second to none in its recommendations and customer service. If you’re looking for somewhere utterly charming to spend a good hour or so browsing, this book shop is a must visit! London Street, Norwich, www.thebookhive.co.uk

For the fashion fan… A good fashion boutique is not hard to find in Norfolk but top of my list are the Anna shops in Holt and Burnham Market. Stocking clothes from a great selection of designers, these shops give fantastic one-on-one style advice making sure that special outfit really does feel special. Perfect for the style-conscious! Holt and Burnham Market, www.shopatanna.com

For a special gift… There’s always one friend or family member who is difficult to buy for. But where better to find that unique gift than at the lovely Purpledoor in Diss? Whether it’s a brooch made out of an old biscuit tin or a patchwork vintage chair, you’re bound to find a great gift for the person that has it all. Cobbs Yard, Diss, www.purpledoordiss.co.uk

For the shoe lover… Imelda’s Shoe Boutique in Norwich has possibly one of the most beautiful shoe displays I’ve ever seen! Quirky and fashionable you can admire, buy and then also be tempted by some beautiful accessories with the great selection this small shop offers. Guildhall Hill, Norwich, www.facebook.com/ImeldasShoeBoutique

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Saturday, 26th March 2016

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We are open 6 days a week with late evening appointments available. We offer a wide range of beauty treatments: Electrolysis, Facials, Massage, Waxing - Hollywood & Brazilian, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Manicures, Pedicures, Bio Sculpture Gel, St. Tropez Tanning, Special Occasion Make Up, Brow Shaping, Eyelash Perming, Eyelash Extensions, Hopi Ear Candling, Ear Piercing, Lash & Brow Tinting, and much more.

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■ 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

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why we LOVE... HARLESTON Written by Liz Jane Mattock Nestled in the beautiful Waveney Valley on the old coaching route from London to Great Yarmouth, Harleston is a vibrant market town, filled with historic buildings, a beautiful chapel and plenty of character. Home to a delightful array of individual speciality shops, bustling market stalls, food and music festivals and a thriving centre for the arts, it’s little wonder Harleston held the title of Norfolk Town of the Year in years gone by.

Things to see and do Set out on The Discovery Trail and explore the distinctive buildings and streets of the town. Discover the many fascinating artefacts at the Harleston Museum or visit the two award-winning microbreweries (Grain Brewery and St Peter’s Brewery) within a stone’s throw of the town.

Summer bunting and flags

Enjoy one of the three circular walks starting in the town or hire a bike and explore one of the Harleston and Waveney cycle rides.

Eat, shop, stay With its historic coaching inns, luxurious hotels and cosy tearooms, you’re sure to find plenty on the menu when eating out. Why not visit the many traditional food shops (organic food stores, delicatessens and markets are all on the menu) or pack up a picnic and enjoy eating al fresco under the famous Norfolk skies as the weather gets warmer? With a choice of individual and speciality shops on offer and a range of traditional bakers, butchers and delicatessen serving plenty of delicious and tempting Norfolk foods, you’re sure to find something delicious to take home. Staying overnight? The market town offers luxurious B&Bs, secluded holiday cottages and even a camping and caravanning site. With its 16th century beams, fireplaces and an arched courtyard, The Swan Hotel is a popular choice for overnight visitors.

What’s on?

Vintage bus passing through the Market Place

It may be a little way off, but it’s worth noting in the diary. The Harleston Antiques and Vintage Street Market returns in a few months, and The Waveney Valley Food Festival (www.visitwaveneyvalley.co.uk) returns from 2-11 October. Image credit: HIP /Ian Carstairs

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walcot hall 1/2 August14_1/2 LANDSCAPE GRID 08/07/2014 09:58 Page 1

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What’s on in Norfolk THEATRE & SHOWS 4-6 Feb Brian Conley: Alive and Dangerous Showcasing his many talents, there’ll be singing, laughs, and much, much more in this latest variety show from one of Britain’s most-loved performers. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 9-Feb Jimeoin: YeaHaa! Jimeoin is internationally acclaimed as one of live comedy’s masters. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB . 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 11-Feb Isy Suttie: The Actual One Isy Suttie’s brilliantly funny new show about that moment in your late 20s when you suddenly realize that all your mates are growing up without you. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 12-Feb Crazy Glue ‘Crazy Glue’ follows the tragicomic roller coaster of a couple’s romance as they move from the blossoming of first love through to the thornier terrain of married life. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 13-Feb The Intellectual Hooligans ‘The Intellectual Hooligans’ are a group of top notch improv comedy performers led by Daniel Taylor (founder of UEA Headlights Comedy Society) and Rob aka Will Turner (creator of Reynard City). The show will consist of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” games based on audience suggestions. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 13-14 Feb Peppa Pig’s Surprise Enjoy fun, games and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show with new songs and new life size puppets, Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 14-Feb St Valentine’s Film: Casablanca A special Valentine’s lunch followed by screening of the classic film ‘Casablanca’, starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800. www.westacretheatre.com 15-19 Feb The Man With the Flower in his Mouth Pirandello’s classic one-act play is a disarming meditation on how we cope with living, and how we cope with dying. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917

www.maddermarket.co.uk 15-Feb I’m Not Myself These Days By turns brutal, funny and heartbreaking, this one-man show recalls a time when Josh was living a double life – working at an ad agency by day, and as a drag queen by night - battling alcoholism and desperately trying to make his relationship work with Jack, a high-class, crack addicted rent boy. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 16-17 Feb Mark Steel: Who do you think I am? Mark’s newest stand up show is a surprising and enthralling story told with aplomb. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 16-Feb Adam Hills: Clown Heart Adam has fast become one of the most popular comedians in the UK. His combination of positive, uplifting comedy and rampant spontaneity has won him numerous awards, glowing reviews and a legion of fans. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 18-20 Feb The Russian State Ballet of Siberia The most poignant of all classical ballets is filled with dramatic passion in a chilling and heart-rending tale of love, treachery and forgiveness from beyond the grave. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 22-24 Feb New Jersey Nights The show is a spectacular celebration of the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, and will take you on a nostalgic musical journey through the career of one of the biggest-selling groups of all time. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 25-28 Feb Cirque Berserk! Combining contemporary cirque-style artistry with adrenaline-fuelled stunt action, this astoundingly talented international troupe includes over thirty jugglers, acrobats, aerialists, dancers, drummers, death-defying stunt men and of course the award-winning clown, Tweedy. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

27-Feb The Little Match Girl This is a joyful retelling of a Winter classic. Using a combination of visual storytelling, live music and object work’ Moon on a Stick’ transform the stage into a stunning snowy spectacle. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wellsnext-the-Sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 www.granarytheatre.co.uk 27-Feb Noel and Cole A show of song, scenes and sketches by Noel Coward & Cole Porter, two of the greatest showmen of the 20th Century. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 29 Feb - 5 Mar Toast Another Sunday night shift. The smell 19-Feb Count Duckula of bread baking. The industrial thump, The legendary ‘Count Duckula’ will be thump, thump of the machines that never returning to TV screens courtesy of ITV. stop. The ovens are cranked up to full However, what is arguably more exiting blast, the factory is humming, and evis the fact that he is also available to eryone wants to be somewhere else. But appear ‘Live on Stage’. Princess Theatre, this shift is going to be different. Because 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. when a crisis hits the factory, the men 01485 532252. have more to lose than just their wages... www.princesshunstanton.co.uk Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 19-20 Feb Talking Heads www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk Two stories are unfolded in Bennett’s inimitable, compelling and completely MUSIC 6-Feb Rumours of Fleetwood Mac absorbing style. Witty, tender and beautiThis stunning show takes you on an epic fully observed from the pen of one of musical journey through changing eras the country’s favourite authors, together and styles, from the exciting sound of the these plays make an enthralling evening’s sixties London blues scene right through entertainment. Westacre Theatre, River to the staggering commercial success of Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800. www.westacretheatre.com the seventies and eighties, and beyond. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 19-Feb The Hollywood Special Effects www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk Show Get closer to the action than ever before 6-Feb The Elvis Years as this interactive and explosive family The Elvis Years is an outstanding musical show takes you behind the scenes of your production which brings to the stage the favourite films to discover the science incredible and compelling story of the and secrets of creating movie magic. ‘King of Rock and Roll’ - Elvis Presley. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW

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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

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

Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 7-Feb Big O and The Travelling Wilburys Paul Hopkins, the UKs No 1 Tribute to Roy Orbison, performs with four other top class tributes in a spectacular show recreating the time when Orbison joined forces with George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty to form the legendary 1980s super group The Travelling Wilburys. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 7-Feb The Unforgettable Show ‘Unforgettable’ is a first class production that highlights the musical icons including favorite musical legends such as Elvis Presley, Nat King Cole, Frankie Valli, Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield and more. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 8-13 Feb Priscilla Queen of the Desert Based on the smash-hit movie, the feelgood international hit sensation is the heart-warming, uplifting adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus searching for love and friendship and end up finding more than they could have ever dreamed of. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 13-Feb Heather Small As the lead vocalist with the Manchester Based M People, Heather Small enjoyed enormous success with the band who sold over 10 million albums worldwide. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 13-Feb The Rat Pack The show promises to be an event not to be missed when the band will be performing classics such as The Lady Is A Tramp, Hey There, Me and My Shadow and Ain’t That A Kick In The Head along with Shiny Stockings, Corner Pocket and Lil Darlin’ to name but a few. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 www.gorlestonpavilion.co.uk 14-Feb Showbitz - the Love Songs Crammed with timeless classics (and a few first encounters) from the world of stage, screen and the charts, join in on a romantic stroll through the thrills and spills of love and heartbreak, written by some of the world’s greatest songwriters. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 15-Feb The Dublin Legends Featuring Sean Cannon, Eamonn Campbell, Gerry O’Connor & Paul Watchorn. Formerly of The Dubliners. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 18-Feb Madder World Music An eclectic and diverse mix of funky beats from all over the world by DJ Abraham Eshetu. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 19-Feb Claude Bourbon This finger picking guitarist has performed and studied all over the world; he has crafted an unbelievable fusion of

classical and jazz, with ethereal Eastern influences, Spanish and Latin elements with strains of Western folk. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-theSea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 www.granarytheatre.co.uk 27-Feb Dr Feelgood ‘Dr Feelgood’ remains one of the most popular and exciting live rhythm and blues acts in the world. The raw and uncompromising style of their performance resulted in the album Stupidity that immediately went to the number one position in the UK charts. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 27-Feb Waterloo The Abba sound is replicated with an incredible attention to detail by a full live cast and band - with stunning costumes and breathtaking choreography. The wonderful lyrics penned by Benny and Bjorn are sung in wonderful, captivating harmony from the opening refrain to the final sing-along chorus of this two-hour spectacular. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 27-Feb The Counterfeit Stones Celebrating their 25th anniversary in 2016 with yet another skillfully mixed cocktail of classic hits, retro costumes and rock & roll humour - intoxicating young and old alike Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 28-Feb The Johnny Cash Story Between singing classic numbers such as Big River, Ring of Fire, I Walk The Line, Sunday Morning Coming Down and Hurt, Dean describes Johnny’s rise from poverty stricken beginnings in rural Arkansas to world stardom. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1 Feb - 20 Mar Alphonse Mucha: In Quest of Beauty The show will include over 60 works drawn primarily from the collection of the Mucha Trust, including posters, drawings, paintings and photographs. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 593199. www.scva.ac.uk 3-Feb Moss Taylor: The History of Birding in North Norfolk In this illustrated talk, Moss Taylor traces the development of birdwatching from the early local wildfowlers and ‘Gentlemen Gunners’, to the establishment of the bird reserves at Cley and Blakeney Point. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 3-Feb SPIEL: Poppy Jackson Artist Talk Poppy Jackson (IE/GB, 1982) makes actionist work exploring the female body as an autonomous zone. Jackson’s paintings and live performances apply a grunge aesthetic to the Western iconographic tradition, using a methodology of violence as creative and transformational catalyst. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. www.norwichartscentre.co.uk

25-Feb SPIEL: Asia Alfasi Artist Talk Asia Alfasi was born in Lybia and moved to Scotland at the age of seven, and then to Birmingham in her teens. Her work brings together Islamic, Libyan, British and Japanese influences. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. www.norwichartscentre.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 1-28 Feb Snowdrop Season at Raveningham Gardens See drifts of snowdrops in the main garden. On Sundays 14 and 21 February, proceeds will go to the Priscilla Bacon Lodge Hospice. Raveningham Gardens, Raveningham, NR14 6NS. 01508 548480. www.raveningham.com 6-Feb The Nearly New Baby Fair Stock babies wardrobes and nurseries with beautiful items at a fraction of the price, whilst helping parents to re-coup some of their hard earned money spent on lovely quality items. 11am - 4pm. Wymondham Central Hall, Back Lane, Wymondham, NR18 0QB 7-Feb Crafty Gang’s Craft & Gift Fayre Wide range of stalls including Ultimate Glitz - jewellery and bags, Filby Fayre - jams, pickles and chutneys, Tom’s Jewellery - cutlery jewellery, Mellies Bears - handmade bears, Jaynes Celebration Cakes and more. Free entry. 10am - 4pm. Filby Village Hall, Main Road, Great Yarmouth, NR29 3HN 10-Feb How to dig up a Tyrannosaurus Talk Have you ever wondered what happens on a dinosaur excavation? Join David Waterhouse to find out about his travels to Montana, USA to take part in a ‘dinosaur dig’. Lynn Museum, Market Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1NL. 01553 775001 www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk 13-21 Feb Signs of Spring Family event: It’s (nearly) spring! Celebrate by looking out for signs of spring in the woodland garden to win a small prize. Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, School Road, South Walsham, NR13 6DZ. 01603 270449 www.fairhavengarden.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 6-7 Feb Norfolk Showground Antique and Collectors Fair Over 400 inside and outside stands spread over the Norfolk Showground. Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 9am-4pm. Entry £5. Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, New Costessy, NR5 0TT. 01702 549623 20-Feb 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 21-Feb Dunston Hall Antiques Fair Around 55 tables of good quality antiques. Items offered for sale pre date 1940 ensuring a quality event. 10.30am - 4pm. Dunston Hall Hotel, Ipswich Road, NR14 8PQ. 07596 436260 28-Feb Blakeney Antique & Collectors Fair Maximum 24 Tables. Well attended throughout the year. Free parking. Blakeney Village Hall, Blakeney, NR25 7NQ. 01263 713120

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TUESDAY 9TH FEBRUARY 2016

Making plans to visit Olney for our famous Pancake Race this year?

Then after the race come along for a wander through our Five Period Decorated Rooms. All beautifully laid out for you to enjoy, Fine Furniture, Paintings, Mirrors, and do take time to see our extensive collection of Glassware, both functional and decorative. And don’t forget our Shiny Silverware, Jewelry and Ceramics to complement your home. As a Special thank you for paying us a visit Promise Promise - “No two Promise -dresses “No Promise two - sold “No dresses two - “No dresses sold two dresses sold sold we are pleased to offer you 10% Off your purchases, to the same to school the same toprom.” theschool same to theprom.” school same school prom.”prom.” when you mention East Life Magazine. We have super-sexy We have yetsuper-sexy We elegant have prom We super-sexy yethave elegant dresses super-sexy yetprom that elegant have dresses yetprom wow-factor. elegant that dresses have promthat wow-factor. dresses havethat wow-factor. have wow-factor. Remembering Remembering everyto girl’s Remembering tastes, everyRemembering our girl’s range every tastes, girl’s our every 400) tastes, range girl’s spans our (over tastes, range from 400) our (over spans range 400) from (over spans 400) from spans from that have wow-factor. We(over have super-sexy yet elegant prom dresses This offer is available only on Pancake Day and applies traditional fulltraditional length prom full gowns length traditional full fit prom for length agowns fairy-tale fullprom length fit gowns forprincess, prom a fairy-tale fitgowns for through a princess, fairy-tale fit for a through fairy-tale princess, princess, through through purchases above £20 So we look forward to seeing you on traditional Remembering every girl’snoThere’s tastes, our range (over 400) spans from to something to vivacious, something to short something vivacious, andtosparkly. something vivacious, shortThere’s andvivacious, short sparkly. no doubt andThere’s short sparkly. that and no these There’s doubt sparkly.that doubt theseno that doubt thesethat these 1stevery Floor 1st bit Floor House, 1st Dagnall Floor Stanley House, Dagnall Floor Court, Stanley Dagnall House, Olney,Court, Stanley House, Olney, Court, StanleyOlney, Court, Oln the day. You will find us upstairs at 19 Market Place. dresses will have dresses you will captivating dresses have you will dresses your captivating have audience will you have captivating your and you audience looking captivating yourlength every and audience your looking bitprom audience andevery looking bit and looking bitDagnall every traditional full gowns to something short and1st sparkly. Buckinghamshire, Buckinghamshire, MK46 Buckinghamshire, 5NHBuckinghamshire, (Opposite MK46 5NH MK46 CO-OP) (Opposite 5NH MK46 (Opposite CO-OP) 5NH (Opposite CO-OP) CO the Prom Queen the the Prom moment Queen the Prom you thethe Queen step moment Prom out! the Queen you moment step theout! moment you step you out!step out! Expect a warm welcome at Leo Antiques! There’s no doubt that these dresses looking every bit the Prom Queen.

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BEDS, BUCKS, HERTS

why we LOVE... OLNEY It’s that time of year again…get ready for the Olney Pancake Race Day This year the Olney Pancake Race returns bigger than ever before with some new additions to the line up. Now in its 67th year, the friendly competition takes place on Tuesday 9 February. The festivities begin with Lesley’s Pancake Breakfast between 8.30am – 10am. A new concept for 2016, celebrity TV chef Lesley Waters will be cooking a delicious breakfast alongside local chefs from two local foodie pubs, The Swan and The Bell and Bear, in the marquee on the Market Square. Tickets are available to buy for £5. On the north side of the Market Place the Children’s Race will begin at 10.30am. It’s then onto the main event. Runners will take their position at the start line outside The Olney Deli at 11.45am, before sprinting off with their pancakes at 11.55am.

At 12.15 a Shriving service will be held at the Parish Church. Another new addition is the ‘Ready Steady Olney Cooking Competition’. Contestants have been sending ideas for sweet and savoury pancake fillings, which Lesley will cook up with the help of two local chefs. She will then announce the winner of each category. This event takes place between 12.15pm – 2.20pm and includes the Pancake Tossing Competition. The fun comes to a close at 7pm as the international winner of the pancake race is announced via a web link in the Church Hall. Will you be attending? Share your snaps with us on Facebook at facebook.com/eastlifemag

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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.

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Boutique Cholpon

+44 7446 865532 | Tickford Arcade, Newport Pagnell

Photography: Anna Abel

BOUTIQUE CHOLPON

What’s on in Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE & SHOWS 3-6 Feb The Mikado Set in the bustling town of Titipu, Japan. Nanki Poo is looking for Yum Yum, Katisha is looking for Nanki Poo, The Mikado is looking for Ko-Ko and Ko-Ko wants to cut Nanki Poo’s head off! Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 5-Feb Lee Hurst Lee Hurst is back on the road with his next stand-up show. It’s a show, it’s the ninth one and it’s comedy. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 9-13 Feb Gangsta Granny The Birmingham Stage Company is delighted to bring to the stage this wonderful new production based on the amazing book by David Walliams. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 11-13 Feb Oliver! Based on the Charles Dickens novel ‘Oliver Twist’, it tells the story of Oliver, a workhouse boy who is sold to an undertaker, who runs away and eventually ends up joining Fagin’s gang of thieves and pickpockets. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 12-27 Feb Poppy+George ‘Poppy+George’ is a romantic drama with music inspired by the good old days of music hall and beyond, featuring new original numbers that draw on a world of flamboyant Dames, Principal Boys, Comic Turns, double entendre, and a costume for even the most unexpected occasion. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 13-Feb Curious Creatures Welcome to the ‘Curious Creatures’ wildlife park, established by Jeremiah Johnson: world-renowned explorer, zoologist and animal collector. Nobody knows more about animals than him. Unfortunately, Jeremiah Johnson is currently lost somewhere in the jungles of Africa, so he has handed the running of the park over to his inexperienced nephew Craig... and things dont quite go as planned. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org 13-Feb Jenny Eclair’s Guide to Being a Middle Aged Woman (Without Going Insane) Jenny Eclair takes to the stage to explore some of the boll*cks that surrounds the ageing process. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY www.courttheatre.co.uk 14-Feb Katherine Ryan The razor sharp and hilariously funny

Canadian returns with a highly anticipated new show. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 14-Feb Romeo and Juliet – Encore Screening With its passionate choreography, spine-tingling swordsmanship and celebrated score by Sergei Prokofiev, this colourful and emotional re-telling of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet has packed houses around the world. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 15-20 Feb Derren Brown: Miracle Derren is once again looking forward to the challenge that comes with being acknowledged as one of the world’s most renowned live performers; a dark manipulator of magic and mind control. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 16-Feb Jimmy Carr: Work in Progress When you see Jimmy on tour it’s very good. But the show is not finished yet so essentially you’re watching Jimmy do his homework. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 24-27 Feb Blue Stockings The play tells the story of the Mistress of Girton College and her determination to win the female students the right to graduate. In doing so, they risked being branded a blue stocking, a derogatory term for female intellectuals who were not granted degree status from Cambridge until 1948. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 25-27 Feb Up Pompeii Based on the BBC TV comedy, this hilarious romp through ancient Pompeii sees Lurcio, Senator Ludicrus Sextus’s slave, caught up in a myriad of sexual liaisons in all quarters of his master’s house. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 25-26 Feb Chinese New Year Extravaganza The celebration showcases amazing acrobatics from China, such as the ever popular ancient magic of “changing faces”, arduous and elegant contortion acts, juggling, martial arts and many many more. The Gordon Craig, Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 26 Feb - 5 Mar The Vicar of Dibley Based on the hugely popular TV series featuring Dawn French, come and enjoy an evening of laughs and the locals get used to their lady-vicar. The Gordon

Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 28-Feb Breast Cancer Now- Comedy Fundraiser A jam-packed evening of the funniest and finest comedians in aid of Breast Cancer Now. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 29-Feb The Circus of Horrors The show that stormed into the finals of Britain’s Got Talent & now a West End smash is back to mark its 21st Anniversary in spectacular style. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk MUSIC 1-12 Feb That’ll Be The Day 30th Anniversary The nations favourite rock ‘n’ roll variety spectacular features a fantastic line up of knock-out hits from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus more. The Gordon Craig, Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 4-Feb La Traviata – Live Screening The opera tells the story of the Parisian courtesan Violetta Valéry, one of opera’s greatest heroines, based on the real life courtesan Marie Duplessis, who died in 1847 aged just 23. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 5-7 Feb Richard Hale School: Our House! The songs of Madness are some of the best-loved pop songs of all time. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 5-Feb Digby Fairweather’s Half Dozen To celebrate their 21st year on the road Digby’s Half Dozen bring you an unforgettable evening of swinging sounds, favourite songs (sung by the ‘Four Fairweather Friends’), latin jazz, and gorgeous selections from the Great American and British Songbooks Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 5-Feb Paul Carrack Legendary Sheffield-born singer, songwriter and former frontman of Ace, Squeeze and Mike & The Mechanics returns to the road with his band in early 2016 for a 34-date UK tour visiting all of his favourite venues. Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk 5-Feb Sing-a-Long-Grease The evening begins with your host leading a vocal warm-up before they show you how to use your magic

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Four Pillars

Tandoori Restaurant

For unique taste from the Far East

Specialising in floral designs for every occasion Traditional or contemporary

20% OFF on takeaway collection Cash Only (Orders over £20)

Come and enjoy a

Weddings, Funerals & special occasions, unique gifts, balloons, chocolates, fruit, hampers and plants

Four Course Meal from our extensive menu

Created and presented by our friendly, expert team of florists

Only £13.95 per person Sunday to thursday only

Bookings now being taken for Valentines Day 60 High Street, Olney, Buckinghamshire

Tel: 01234 714083 / 711 563

Valentines Dinner with Live Classical Music

Sunday 14th February 2016 from 6pm-10pm Savour lovingly created dishes from our Valentine’s Day Set Menu and enjoy the romance of live music as you dine. For those wishing to celebrate early, our Valentine’s Menu is also served on the Saturday evening.

Wedding Reception & Party Venue

A beautiful, relaxed, stylish & intimate venue in the heart of the picturesque Georgian village of Woburn. Celebrate with a select number of guests or hire on an exclusive basis (seating for up to 65 people).

A Meeting Place

Planning a business lunch or catching up with friends or family? Free WiFi available in a relaxed & welcoming setting.

Events

Free live jazz from the fabulous “Jazz Brothers”

alternate Sundays 12.00pm – 3.00pm. Regular classical music and live opera evenings.

Please check our website for details of all our events.

RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

Woburn Brasserie, 13 Bedford Street, Woburn MK17 9QB Tel: 01525 290260 Email: info@woburnbrasserie.co.uk www.woburnbrasserie.co.uk www.facebook.com/woburnbrasserie www.twitter.com @WoburnBrasserie Mon 10am - 3pm, Tue to Fri 10am - 3pm & 6pm - 9.30pm Saturday 10am - 3pm & 6pm - 10pm, Sunday 10am - 3pm

moments fun packs. You’ll even get a chance to learn how to hand jive. Then just sit back and watch Danny & Sandy and the gang, while singing and dancing along to the lyrics as shown on the screen. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 7-Feb Chris Wood Chris Wood is an uncompromising writer whose music reveals his love for the un-official history of the English speaking people. With gentle intelligence he weaves the tradition with his own contemporary parables. The Stables Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU 01908 280800. www.stables.org 10-Feb Doric String Quartet ‘The Doric String Quartet’ is widely regarded as the leading British string quartet of the new generation, receiving glowing responses from audiences and critics across the globe. Their programme features a fascinating and exuberant collection of music. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 13-Feb Fred’s House ‘Fred’s House’ are an award-winning band based in Cambridge, mixing elements of folk, country, classic rock and West Coast.The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 13-Feb That Eighties Band You just can’t get enough of this fantastic live 80s tribute band whose carefully reproduced songs will bring you back in iime so you can relax, let your hair down, and relive those retro classic hits like Rio, Call Me, Love Shack and Thriller. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 14-Feb The Classic Rock Show For 2016 ‘The Classic Rock Show’ will focus on a new batch of rock gems best known for their irresistible hooks, instantly recognisable songs that have earned a golden status in the history of classic rock music. Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488. www.alban-arena.co.uk 18-Feb Madam Butterfly The Russian State Ballet and Opera House presents ‘Madam Butterfly’ – one of the most colourful & exotic operas. Music by Giacomo Puccini, Italian libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 19-Feb Viva Neil Diamond To celebrate the icon’s 50 year recording career the UK’s very own ‘voice of Neil’ Bob Drury (‘The Neil Diamond Story’) takes to the road with ‘Viva Neil Diamond’, a brand new one-man stage show simply bursting with Neil Diamond gems! Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 19-Feb Think Floyd With over 20 years experience recreating the legendary sound of Pink Floyd live on stage, ‘Think Floyd’ embark on a sensational nationwide tour this spring. The brand new production features

The Dark Side of the Moon and Wish You Were Here - arguably two the most influential albums of all time. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 20-Feb Heather Small: The Voice of M People As the lead vocalist with the Manchester Based M People, Heather Small enjoyed enormous success with the band who sold over 10 million albums worldwide, with hits such as ‘One Night In Heaven’, ‘Moving On Up’, ‘Search for A Hero’, ‘Sight For Sore Eyes’ etc. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 20-Feb Big Country in Concert Following the incredible success of their 30th Anniversary Steeltown tour, ‘Big Country’ celebrate their stunning catalogue of songs, taken from their multi-million selling and Number 1 hit albums. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 20-Feb The Dublin Legends Sean Cannon, Eamonn Campbell, Gerry O’Connor & Paul Watchorn are all true legends of Irish Folk music. Sean & Eamonn were members of The Dubliners for close to 30 years while Gerry joined them for the final part of their 50th Anniversary Tour. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 20-Feb The Chamber Players ‘The Chamber Players’ is a flexible group of renowned UK chamber musicians who perform the great works of the chamber music repertoire. Based on a string sextet, but expanding to include other instruments, they have performed all over the UK and abroad in such venues as Buxton Festival, Chichester Festivities, York and Keele Universities. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX 01707 357117. www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 26 Jan - 2 Feb Dexterity An exhibition showing the work of five artists created with dexterity and sensitivity, exploring diverse concepts of fluidity, fragility, miniaturised form, time and the everyday. Courtyard Arts, Port Vale, Hertford, SG14 3AA. 01992 509596 www.courtyardarts.org.uk 1-25 Feb Members’ Exhibition A new exhibition of gallery artists’ work. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 8-22 Feb Art for Art lovers Founded by local ‘art lover’ Vee Dobson, the ‘Art for Art Lovers’ exhibition provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy a diversity of local talent. Multiple disciplines and many artistic skills will range in style from traditional landscapes to contemporary enformel. Something for everyone’s taste! Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 18-Feb An Exceptional Roman Burial Near Royston Keith Fitzpatrick Matthews from the

North Herts Community Archaeology Service will talk about a recent discovery and archaeological dig of a Roman site near Royston. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG, 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 27 Feb - 5 Mar Anthony Mackay A one week show. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP 01234 346995. www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 1-29 Feb Knit & Chat Twice a month on either a Tuesday or Wednesday from 10am - 12pm, a group of volunteers get together to knit and catch up. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 4-6 Feb Stevenage Winter Beer Festival Stevenage Winter Beer & Cider Festival is celebrating with over 80 beers, cider and perry, with a fantastic selection of hot and cold food. Concert Hall, Stevenage. 01438 363 200 20-Feb Mayor’s Charity Boxing Match The Mayor of Bishop’s Stortford is proud to present a charity boxing match in association with the Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service and BOXFIT. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 21-Feb Glass Fair at Knebworth With around 70 exhibitors and a special in-fair exhibition, this event is a must for all glass collectors and enthusiasts. Open from 10.30am - 4pm, admission is £5 with free entry to accompanied children under 16. Knebworth House, Stevenage SG1 2AX. 07887 762872. www.cambridgeglassfair.com 27-Feb Fantasy Fairy-Tale Theatrical Make-Up A professional make-up artist will teach stage make-up techniques that will enable you to create a fantasy fairytale inspired look. Make-up will be provided to practice with during the session. Ages 12-16 years & Ages 16+. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com AUCTION & ANTIQUES 7-Feb Flitwick Antiques and Collectors Fair Flitwick Antiques and Collectors Fair is held on the first sunday of each month. There is ample off road parking, homemade refreshments, excellent disabled facilities and a wide range of interesting items for sale. Flitwick Village Hall, Dunstable Road, Flitwick MK45 1HP, 077305 62329 16-Feb 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 27-Feb Bedfordshire’s Antiques & Collectors fair St Pauls Huge range of antiques, vintage and retro items. Entry £1. 10am - 4pm. St Pauls Church, St Pauls Square , Bedford. 078431 74615

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Ceremony package includes: – Exclusive use of the Mansion – Prosecco drinks reception – Up to 85 guests – Fantastic photo opportunities – 2 hour hire – Ceremony music – Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday

To arrange a visit contact Lesley 01473 786001 or email lesley@whersteadpark.co.uk

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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 £169,995

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.