Eastlife February 2018 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

eastlife www.eastlife.co.uk

Living life in the East

Love is in the air Wedding Special Top Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day picks Sleeping under the stars and more

February 2018

The GLC. Power and finesse combined.

Introducing Mercedes-Benz first ever mid-sized SUV for the UK market. A remarkable vehicle, it boasts the muscular looks and capabilities of a 4x4, yet it handles with finesse and agility. Standard features include 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive while options include the Off-Road Package and AIR BODY CONTROL suspension to further enhance the car’s off-road credentials. Producing 170 hp and 400 Nm of torque, the GLC 220 d 4MATIC clocks 0 to 62 mph in 8.3 seconds. Yet it returns up to 56.5 mpg combined with CO2 emissions as low as 129 g/km.

Representative example GLC 220 d 4MATIC Sport

48 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement) On-the-road price Customer deposit Optional final payment† Total amount of credit Total amount payable†† Option to purchase fee† Representative APR Fixed interest rate

£499 £36,316 £499 £17,775 £35,815.46 £42,236 £10 5.6% 5.41%

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the GLC range: urban 26.2(10.8)-51.4(5.5), extra urban 40.9(6.9)-60.1(4.7), combined 34.0(8.3)-56.5(5.0). CO2 emissions 189-129 g/km. Whilst this offer is only available through

Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance behalf of other finance companies as well. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d 4MATIC AMG Line at £36,316 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Specification imagery may show optional features. Content relating to finance is promoted by Mercedes-Benz Finance. Your Retailer may offer finance on behalf of other companies. *Finance offer based on a GLC 220 d 4MATIC AMG Line on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement, on 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and Retailer deposit contribution. Orders/credit approvals on selected GLC models, between 1 January and 31 March 2018, registered by 30 June 2018. Guarantees may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Finance, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.

The best or nothing.

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

East Life GLC Ad.indd 1

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

16/01/2018 14:46

PUBLISHER - Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696

EDITOR - Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904

From the

editor

PRODUCTION MANAGER/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Paul Balaam

Dear Reader,

paul@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142

February always puts a spring in my step; a brand new month with so much to look forward to! Lighter evenings are creeping in and the region is beginning to wake up from its winter slumber. This month stately homes are opening their gates to a display of daffodils and snow drops (read our top 5 on page 29), there are new art exhibitions inspired by the season ahead and we welcome the first festivals of 2018 – I’m looking forward to seeing Cambridge light up with the return of the e-Luminate Festival!

SOCIAL MEDIA - Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539

WEB DEVELOPER - Ben Attenborough ben@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 777070

ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129

SALES ENQUIRIES Darren Marshall - 07826 628680 Stewart Hedges - 07595 894557 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635

HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge, CB23 4EY

Special thanks to our contributors Gerla De Boer, Dolly Osborne, Sue Cooke, Tracey Dean, Wendy Howes, Katrina Otter, Collette Hoefkens, Amanda French, Ruth Essex, Laura Stafford-Smith, Liz Mattock 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.

It’s also the month of love! To celebrate we have plenty of ideas for Valentine’s Day and a handy gift guide, plus a wedding special with 13 pages dedicated to planning the perfect big day in the East of England. We’ve found the quirkiest venues in the East, list the hottest décor trends for 2018 and have plenty of tips and advice, but if you want more head to our Weddings Facebook page for exclusive offers and ideas at www.facebook.com/eastlifeweddings

Emma Kemsley

Find us on online: /eastlifemag

@eastmagazines

@eastlifemag

www.eastlife.co.uk

On the

front cover: ‘St Johns College from Trinity Street, Cambridge’ by Susan Isaac Susan’s work may be seen at: Customs House Gallery, Saffron Walden Gallery, Gallery 6 in Newark-on-Trent, Wren Gallery in Burford, Staithes Gallery North Yorks, Claremoint Gallery in Sevenoaks and Bull Yard Gallery, Southwell. Follow Susan Isaac on her Facebook: www.facebook.com/SusanIsaac.Artist www.susan-isaac.co.uk

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11-17 NEWS FLASH

A round-up of monthly news and events

19-25 LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Date ideas and gifts for Valentine’s Day

30-31 INTO THE WILD The best glamping spots

33 DOG-FRIENDLY

Tails About Town in Cambridge

35-37 LITTLE EAST

Mum’s the Word and half term events

41-47 EDUCATION School open days

49-51 FOOD & DRINK

News & the Cambridge Foodie 54-59 HEALTH Fostering February & how to be a natural beauty

61 FASHION

Shoes, shoes, shoes

63-75 WEDDINGS

Everything you need to know about planning a wedding in the East

Contents

February 2018

81-91 INTERIORS

Conservatories, gardens and first homes

95-97 ARTS

Monthly column and the latest news

115 115-123 SUFFOLK

A guide to visiting Beccles & Bungay

125-137 NORFOLK

99-105 CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Secret Norfolk, Harleston and five things to do on the Broads

107-113 ESSEX

139-145 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS

Cambridge Scene, St Ives & events

Shopping in Saffron Walden and listings

The Olney Pancake Race and theatre listings eastlife.co.uk

Cambridgeshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Independent Specialist

BMW & MINI

www.bartlett-auto.com Huntingdon 01480 459771 Peterborough 01733 852955

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Around the region

Eastlife Diary e-Luminate Cambridge Festival 9-14 February Colour and light will bathe the city of Cambridge when e-Luminate Cambridge Festival once again returns to enchant, entrance, fascinate and inform. This year’s theme is ‘colour’ and events include talks, workshops, experimental Wine Tasting sessions and the return of the popular Trail of Light walks through Cambridge Colleges and the Glow Games in collaboration with the Sports Team at Cambridge City Council. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/e-luminate Image: Warren Gunn

New Artistic Director for Holt Festival 10th anniversary 21-29 July Stash Kirkbride has been announced as the new ‘front man’ of the Holt Festival for the 10th anniversary year. As co-founder of Norwich’s Hostry Festival and the Norfolk Arts Awards, Stash is well known throughout the region and beyond. The 2018 Holt Festival runs from 21-29 July. Stash will reveal the first highlights at the end of this month with the full programme announcement set for late April. www.holtfestival.org

Tickets now on sale for Alexandra Burke’s ‘The Truth Is’ tour kicking off on 1 September at Southend’s Cliffs Pavilion.

Rural Magpie Jewellery Fair 3 March, 10am-4pm The Chesterfords Community Centre, Newmarket Road, Great Chesterford, CB10 1NS. A wide variety of jewellery from antique to modern from local artisan jewellery makers. www.ruralmagpie.co.uk

Movie Night at The Varsity Hotel & Spa, Cambridge 25 February Movie Night at The Varsity Hotel & Spa, Cambridge This month’s movie package will take place on 25 February with a showing of the film ‘The Theory of Everything’. The evening includes a private screening with snacks, three course meal at SIX and overnight stay with breakfast, priced £215 per couple. Book at www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk

Watch this space! An exciting event on Ipswich Waterfront, ART EAT will bring together Suffolk’s inspiring artistic talent in an inclusive, vibrant and delicious exploration of creativity, culture and flavours for all the family this September.

23-29 April Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children returns this spring from 23-29 April for nurseries and families. Help raise money and sign up for your free Muddy Puddle Walk Fundraising Pack full of fun Peppa Pig inspired activities to help you get started at MuddyPuddleWalk.org

eastlife.co.uk

South American Animal Adventure

American Animal UnderAdventure 4’s go FREE

Braziliant value: Admission still at 2014 prices!!

Amazona Zoo Rainforest Springs logo

Explore the Amazona in Cromer

amazonazoo.co.uk stay with us at cromercamping.com check website for opening times

South American Animal Adventure

Terry Dash Music presents

TWISTING THE NIGHT AWAY with the Vintage King SI CRANSTOUN and his Band

Business Accountants for Business People ● Accounting and Bookkeeping ● Tax and Tax Planning ● Regulation and Compliance ● Advice and Support ● Fixed Fess ● Straight and Direct Communication ● Local Presence and National Strength ● We Do Not Charge By The Hour

The Doo Wop, Rock n Roll & Rocking R & B show can be seen at the following venues in April Saturday 14 April The Pier Pavilion Theatre, Cromer 8.00pm 01263 512495 Sunday 22 April New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich 7.00pm 01473 295900 Friday 27 April The Key Theatre, Peterborough 7.30pm 01733 207239 Sunday 29 April The Broadway Theatre, Letchworth Garden City 7.00pm 01462 681088 “Wow! How good is Si Cranstoun” Chris Evans BBC Radio 2

“The Heart and Soul of Rock n Roll” R & R Magazine

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OPENING MARCH 2018 @CherryTreeOlney

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Around the region Bringing Clerkenwell to Cambridge On the corner of Pound Hill tucked up behind newly developed Kettle’s Yard, is Eve Waldron Design’s new showroom. The shop has now broadened its range of Scandinavian furniture brands, to include Carl Hansen & Son and PP Møbler. You will also find bespoke furniture and textiles on display, stemming from Eve’s background in industrial design, alongside the likes of Knoll, Vitra, Gubi, Secto, HAY & more brands you previously had to travel to London to see. Eve Waldron Design also provide an interior architectural design service, for both residential and commercial projects. They regularly work for Cambridge Colleges and recently supplied furniture for Kettle’s Yard new gallery. “Visitors are welcome to come and browse our catalogues too, as we can only keep a selection of items on display. We also have fabrics and wallpapers upstairs.” Eve Waldron Design, a household name in Cambridge, is the one to watch. See more examples of their work at www.evewaldron.com, or get in touch on 01223 470370. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook @evewaldrondesign

New flights and holidays to Dalaman for East Anglia holidaymakers

TUI (formerly Thomson) has announced a new route to Dalaman, Turkey for summer 2018 operating out of Norwich Airport .Flights start in May 2018 and will operate every Saturday.

As well as new flights to Dalaman residents from in and around East Anglia now have a wide choice of destinations to choose from when booking their holidays this summer with another new route to Heraklion in Greece already on sale.

eastlife.co.uk

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Ballot dates announced for the 2nd Essex Big Weekend! Are you ready to get your tickets to the biggest celebration of the year? Registration for Essex Big Weekend opens on 8 February, where hundreds of free pairs of tickets for a host of attractions and fun-filled activities across the county will be up for grabs. A huge variety of Essex tourist attractions and related businesses will be opening their doors or offering special gifts to lucky ticket holders on 24 and 25 March, as part of Visit Essex’s second celebration of the county’s tourism industry. Some of the county’s biggest attractions have signed up to this year’s event, including Barleylands, Chelmsford City Racecourse, Lifehouse Spa Hotel, Marks Hall Gardens and Arboretum, Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Hedingham Castle to name a few. Experiences on offer include stunning stately homes, gardens and thrilling white water or high wire experiences.

2018 Great British Chef Series at Benedicts, Norwich A number of Britain’s most esteemed and award-winning chefs are set to join Chef Richard Bainbridge for an exclusive series of collaborative dinners at Benedicts in Norwich. Michelin-starred chefs Tom Kerridge, Daniel Clifford and Josh Eggleton are amongst the mix of culinary talent sharing the pass at the restaurant on St Benedicts Street. Each exclusive dinner will be a celebration of great British food, cooked by world-class British chefs – many of whom are well-known faces from the BBC series Great British Menu, which Richard won with two stunning dishes in 2015 and more recently became a veteran judge.

Essex Big Weekend promotes attractions and sights, and encourages residents to discover how much there is to see and do in their home county. The event is also part of English Tourism Week, which highlights the importance of tourism as one of the fastest growing sectors in the national economy. Essex residents can apply for as many tickets as they like from 8 February to 11 March. Two tickets per household will then be allocated at random by ballot (some family tickets are available). To enter visit: www.essexbigweekend.co.uk/attraction-register

16 May – Daniel Clifford, Chef-owner of two Michelinstarred Midsummer House, celebrating his 20th anniversary at the restaurant in Cambridge in 2018 20 May – Glynn Purnell, Chef-owner of Michelin-starred Purnell’s in hometown Birmingham together with his head chef, Luke Butcher 13 June – Josh Eggleton, Chef-owner of Michelin-starred country pub The Pony and Trap in Bristol To book a table at one of the guest chef series dinners email manager@restaurantbenedicts.com or call 01603 92 60 80.

Beginning at 7pm, each evening will start with a selection of snacks before diners sit down to enjoy a six-course menu by Richard and his team in collaboration with the guest chef. Wine pairings will also be available matching wines to each course, with tea and coffee to end the evening. Chef and dates confirmed for the series include: 27 February – Kevin Mangeolles, Chef-owner at Michelinstarred The Neptune Inn, Hunstanton 28 March – Tom Kerridge, Chef-owner of two Michelinstarred The Hand and Flowers and one Michelin-starred The Coach, both in Marlow

eastlife.co.uk

2018 01 East Life Valentines QP.qxp_107mm h x 71mm w 15

B ULL HOT EL We stgate • Peter boroug h • PE1 1RB

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£45 per person

Enjoy a romantic candlelit three-course dinner with a glass of prosecco and live background music.

Booking essential

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Valentine’s 1-Night Breaks

Why not stay the night in one of double executive bedrooms for only £95.00 and receive rose petals on the bed and complimentary chocolates.

To make a reservation or for more information call 01733 561364 events@bull-hotel-peterborough.com www.peelhotels.co.uk

Valentines Dinner

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Lifestyle

Spread the Love Written by Laura Stafford-Smith | www.laurastaffordsmith.com

ooking to treat yourself or a loved one this Valentine’s Day? If you’ve no idea where to go or what to do, we’ve compiled a few favourites from across the region to inspire you come 14 February.

BEDFORDSHIRE Dunstable Downs will once again be holding their romantic Valentine’s Stargazing evening. Spend the evening under the stars with your loved one, taking a closer look at Venus and Mars, sipping on stargazing warmers. Booking is essential, but it’s a bargain at just £18 per person. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

NORFOLK If ‘A Million Love Songs’ sounds like part of your perfect soundtrack to the 14 February, Norwich Theatre Royal might just be the ideal place to spend the evening. The theatre will be showcasing ‘The Band’, the new musical from Tim Firth which follows the story of five 16 year old girls in 1992, for whom Take That were the intended loves of their lives. The show stars the five winners from the BBC’s Let It Shine and is sure to bring back many fond memories, alongside plenty of smiles. You’ll have to get in there quickly though, tickets are selling fast! www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk Enjoy an unrivalled view of Norwich City Centre at Cafe Britannia on Mousehold Heath, whilst enjoying a vintage afternoon tea, pork and apple burger or coffee and mandarin gateau. Famed for its award-winning menu, this is the perfect place to relax before or after a walk around Mousehold Heath. www.cafebritannia.co.uk If you’re after a view but looking to travel a little further afield, why not head up to the North Norfolk coastline where you’ll find an abundance of beautiful beaches to explore? Holkham and Sheringham come highly recommended, as does Eric’s Fish and Chips in Thornham. www.ericsfishandchips.com If you’re looking for somewhere to stay for the night, The Pigs at Edgefield plays host to some gorgeous and stylish accommodation, with their spa suites featuring a sauna and drench showers. All overnight stays come with a locally sourced breakfast, and until 28 February, you can save 20% on all PIGSPA treatments. Why not make your stay even more indulgent and spend some time being pampered? www.thepigs.org.uk

Luton Hoo Hotel

Step inside the magnificent Luton Hoo Hotel and make some beautiful memories whilst enjoying Champagne, canapés and a five course meal in the Wernher Restaurant for £125 per person. If the Wernher Restaurant is full, Adam’s Brasserie (also within Luton Hoo Hotel) is offering a delicious three course meal to be enjoyed within the grounds of the hotel’s Country Club at £55 per person. www.lutonhoo.co.uk/Valentines-Day-2018

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ESSEX If your New Year’s resolutions involve detoxing but you still want to celebrate, why not test out The Lifehouse’s Juice Cleanse retreat in Thorpe-Le-Soken? A minimum of a two-night stay, you’ll be treated to a carefully designed menu of freshly pressed juices, complimentary use of the spa facilities and fitness classes, and the beautiful surroundings of the Thorpe Hall Gardens. If a juice cleanse isn’t for you, but a little indulgence is, there’s always the Blissful Couples Spa Day package instead, including a 50 minute couples massage, buffet lunch, full use of the spa facilities and an hour in your own private sleep retreat for £114 per person. www.lifehouse.co.uk

For the animal lover in your life, heading to Colchester Zoo to take part in the ‘Perfect Partners’ experience could be the perfect day out or gift idea. With a variety of animals to get up close and personal with, complimentary meal and day pass for the rest of the zoo, Colchester Zoo provides the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time together doing something slightly out of the ordinary! Prices from £200. www.colchester-zoo.com/ experiences/perfect-partners

SUFFOLK Set hearts and pulses racing at Newmarket Race Course this Valentine’s Day on their Valentine’s Tour. Head behind the scenes to Sir Mark Prescott’s working yard, the prestigious members only Jockey Club Rooms and enjoy a three-course lunch at the stunning Pack Horse Inn. Home to some of the most famous racehorses in the country, you can also expect a trip to Dalham Hall Stud. This once in a lifetime VIP experience is one not to be missed, and one to be treasured. Spaces are limited and priced at £150 per person. newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk For something a little more adrenaline-fuelled and action packed, Go Ape in Thetford Forest provides the perfect place to test your nerve. Don your warmest hats, gloves and scarves, pack a waterproof and head into the treetops for a romantic afternoon for two. goape.co.uk/days-out/thetford

And for the love birds amongst us, RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve will once again be affording participants the opportunity to make a nest box as part of National Nestbox Week, to take home and give nature a home near you. Entry costs £5 per person plus Reserve entry fees. ww2.rspb.org.uk

If you’re looking to enjoy a more relaxed affair, why not take a stroll along the Suffolk coastline? Southwold is a particular highlight, boasting a beautiful bustling high street, the newly renovated Swan Hotel and beachside location. Whether you’re looking to grab some fish and chips on the pier, pub grub in a friendly local, or to enjoy a more refined dining experience, Southwold has plenty to offer; if you’re looking to stay the night, The Swan offers a range of beautifully designed bedrooms. theswansouthwold.co.uk

The Swan Hotel, Southwold

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HERTFORDSHIRE Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Broxbourne Woods and explore the Sculpture Trail in Hertfordshire’s only national nature reserve. Pack a flask of hot chocolate and some sweet treats for extra indulgence, and spend some time taking in the works of art adorning the trail. If heading out and getting in touch with nature isn’t quite your style, but sweet treats rock your world, why not head to The Pudding Stop in St Albans and try out some of their Brioche French Toast or a Hot Brownie Sundae? www.thepuddingstop.com Watford’s Palace Theatre will be broadcasting the Royal Shakespeare Company’s performance of Twelfth Night live at 7pm. Starring some familiar faces and priced at only £15 per person, this could be the perfect date night for two Shakespeare fans. watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

The Pudding Stop

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Why not book a stay at the luxurious Hotel Felix and hire Ofo bikes to head into the city centre so you and your loved one can explore historic Cambridge on two wheels? Visit Great St Mary’s Church tower for a panoramic view of the city whilst you’re at it, and be sure to check out ‘The Object of My Affection: Stories of Love’ from the Fitzwilliam collection at the Fitzwilliam Museum. www.hotelfelix.co.uk/cycling SIX, Cambridge

As the evening sets in, Cambridge Corn Exchange will be playing host to Ed Byrne, as he explores what it means to be a ‘millenial’ in this modern age. Described by the Sunday Times as ‘Comedy’s Holy Grail’ this is one not to be missed if you’re after an evening of laughter and fun. Tickets cost £26.75. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/ cornex/events/ed-byrne

Head for heights at SIX Cambridge, and enjoy dazzling views of the city at night whilst enjoying dinner and cocktails. The bar and brasserie are offering the chance to create a bespoke cocktail providing the opportunity for couples to discover how well they know each other’s preferred taste and tipples. They can then tuck into a seafood platter to share. Afternoon tea is also available between 2pm and 4.30pm, and can be accompanied by a glass of Champagne for added luxury. www.sixcambridge.co.uk/city-centre-cambridge-restaurant.php

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Valentine’s Day I

t’s that time of year again, love is in the air! Whether you’re planning on treating yourself or want to give your partner a little nudge, we’ve got V’Day covered…

M&S collection Top £29.50, Per Una Trouser £49.50 Marks & Spencer www.marksandspencer.com

Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil in raspberry, £19 House of Fraser www.houseoffraser.co.uk

gift guide

Lucy William X Missoma beaded coin necklace, 18CT gold pated, £145 www.missoma.com

The Valentine Sleekster, £22.50 Hotel Chocolat, intu Chapelfield, 40-46 St Stephens St, Norwich NR1 3SH www.hotelchocolat.com/uk | intu.co.uk/chapelﬁeld

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G R E A T

N O R T H E R N

H O T E L

VALENTINES DAY

Treat the one you love this Valentines Day to a delicious and Romantic dinner for 2 at the beautiful Great Northern Hotel in the heart of historic Peterborough

3 COURSE DINNER WITH A GLASS OF PROSECCO £22.95PER PERSON DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST £119.95PER COUPLE

BOOK TODAY

events@gnhotel.co.uk / 01733 552595

Explore the beauty of the River Orwell with

Orwell Lady River Cruises

Book now for Valentines Day

THE DOLPHIN INN THORPENESS

01728 454994 www.thorpenessdolphin.com

Daytime Public Cruises • Music Nights English Afternoon Tea Cruises Sunday Lunch Buffets • Private Charters School Trips • Coach Parties Welcome • Sailing from Ipswich Waterfront

01473 258070 OR BOOK ONLINE

www.orwellrivercruises.com

Estella Bartlett silver heart coin purse, £15 Lilac Rose, 71 Bridge St, Cambridge CB2 1UR www.lilacrose.co.uk

Personalised Sterling Silver Russian Ring Necklace, from £39 Lisa Angel, 3 Lower Goat Lane, Norwich, NR2 1EL www.lisaangel.co.uk Briefs £4, suspender £5, bra £8 Primark, 62-74 Burleigh St, Cambridge CB1 1DJ

Pink tassel earrings, £10 Accessorize uk.accessorize.com

Rose bombshell bath bomb, £4.50 Lush, 30 Gentleman’s Walk, City Centre, Norwich NR2 1NA

eastlife.co.uk

01353 861677 info@swanontheriver.co.uk www.swanontheriver.co.uk

Pub Dining Rooms

Our menus (download from our website) include home-made bar snacks, pub classics and seasonal specials. We use locally sourced ingredients and all meals are freshly prepared. Sandwiches and smaller meals are available at lunchtimes.

Valentine’s Day

Meals & Rooms

The meal for two is £60, including a glass of bubbly. We also offer the meal for two with a night in one of our beautiful riverside rooms for £150, inclusive of breakfast. A second nights accommodation is available for £50 including breakfast.

1 Sandhill Littleport, Ely Cambs CB6 1NT

All available on Wednesday 14th and Saturday 17th.

CLACTON FACTORY OUTLET

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

FASHION OU TLETS | LEISURE STORES | CA FES FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES | FREE PARKING

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Hylands Estate's

Tuesday Toddle

A fun-filled morning for parents with pre-school children with sessions running fortnightly. Join us for a guided walk in Hylands Park followed by arts and crafts in our workshop. Tickets are ÂŁ4 and must be pre-booked at www.hylandsestate.co.uk

Top 5: Spring Days Out

ebruary is a time to shake off the cobwebs and emerge from our winter blues. There’s no better way to start fresh than heading out this month to discover the region’s flora and fauna that are beginning to spring into action. Here’s our top five locations to enjoy the season… Discover daffodils at Ickworth House

Audley End House and Gardens

16 Dairy Cottages, Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5QE It wouldn’t be spring without the glowing yellow of a daffodil. The quintessential British spring flower brightens up the historic estate in February with heritage daffodils popping up throughout the pleasure grounds in front of the Italianate palace. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth

Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JF Created by the famous 18th century designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, the gardens at this historic home are beautiful at any time of year, but during February and March they come alive with vibrant colours of springtime favourites. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ audley-end-house-and-gardens

Snowdrops at Walsingham Abbey Common Place, Walsingham NR22 6BP For a snowdrop show like no other head to the famous ruins at Walsingham Abbey. Visit the medieval Priory and place of pilgrimage, before exploring 18 acres of woodland filled with the pretty white flower. www.walsinghamabbey.com Ickworth House in spring

Bluebells at Wayland Wood Norfolk, IP25 6HN The alleged site of the ‘Babes in the Wood’ legend, has over 125 species of plants recorded but it’s the bluebells that steal the show during spring. The beautiful bluebells pop up through the grounds and are at their best between March and May. www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk

Dogs and Daffs Charity Walk, 25 March, 9.30am-4pm Hatfield House, AL9 5NB Banish those winter blues and put your best foot forward and join in a dog walk through the grounds of Hatfield House in aid of Riding for Disabled – Digswell Place Group. You can also take part in the dog show and fun games and activities. To register you and your pooch visit www.digswellplacerda.org.uk or dogsanddaffs.weebly.com

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GLAMPING Written by Amanda French www.anoseforfood.com

Hot Spots

ancy getting back to nature but don’t want to get your hands too dirty? Check out some of our favourite glamping hot spots in the region which will have you breathing in the fresh country air, while also indulging in the very best accommodation and resources. FAMILY FRIENDLY

Choose from the three fantastic options for glamping at Secret Meadows. With luxury lodge tents, traditional gypsy caravans or even a stay in the hobbit box, there’s something to suit everyone. All set in a nature reserve and surrounded by beautiful Suffolk countryside, this is a great place to relax. With little extras such as hot tubs, breakfast hampers and private hen coops, this is a great glamping site for families and couples alike. www.secretmeadows.co.uk

Luxury Lodge Tent at Secret Meadows

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COSY FOR COUPLES The Secret Garden is an Eco glamping site, just a stone’s throw from Cambridge and features a beautiful ‘hobbit hole’ with a luxurious king size bed and fairy lights, a covered camp kitchen and dining area, a herb garden and circular firepit. Relax in the woodland spa area with a private wood fired hot tub and compost toilet. A great base for exploring the local area. www.guildengate.co.uk/glamping/the-secret-garden/

Gypsy Caravan at Secret Meadows

BEST FOR HISTORY LOVERS Enjoy a stay surrounded by history in the grounds of Layer Marney Tower. Choose from one of the six tented encampments named after one of the wives of Henry VIII. Each encampment has a main tent which can sleep up to six people in their own beds with a toilet, running water and lights. Three of the encampments even have their own hot tub to enjoy. www.layermarneytower.co.uk/glamping

BUDGET

DOG FRIENDLY Thompson Hall Retreat in Norfolk has beautiful shepherd’s huts nestled amongst the trees and with views across the Norfolk Wild Life Trust properties. Dog friendly, these huts can host two people along with a furry friend or two. All Shepherd’s huts have a luxury king size bed, kitchen facilities, private bathrooms and a private veranda with a gas fire pit, to enjoy in the evening. www.thompsonhallretreat.co.uk

From only £27 a night, enjoy a stay at Theobalds Park Ready Camp in Hertfordshire. The Ready Camp tents offer a great balance between outdoor and contemporary living. With everything you need for your stay including stylish features, full size beds, sofas and dining facilities…along with a fully stocked crockery cupboard, you don’t need to worry about bringing anything with you. Simply bring along your own bedding and essentials to get started. www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

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NEW! Spring Collections

now in store

11 Market Place, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6EA Open 7 Days | 01502 722372 | info@dennyofsouthwold.co.uk

The Bubbles Are Back! 5km Fun Run Maldon Promenade Park Sunday 8th August 2018 Central Park Chelmsford Sunday 5th August 2018 www.farleighhospice.org/bubbles It is because you care that we can www.farleighhospice.org Registered charity no 284670

Visit www.eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly/

eastlife

Tails about town

Dog friendly

Written by Emma Kemsley

Fletcher checks-in at Hotel Felix It feels like a long time since I’ve written a Tails About Town column, but let me get you up to speed. We’ve had Christmas. Fletcher was spoilt rotten and has a new favourite toy; a noisy Kong tennis ball, which he insists on squeaking for about 10 hours a day. It snowed, twice, transforming Fletcher from Spaniel to Husky within seconds. He has been in trouble with British Gas as he thought it would be useful to jump into the hole they were digging at the side of the road and help out. One gas man thought it was hilarious, the other one not so much! And we’ve had a wonderful overnight stay in Cambridge. To beat the January blues my husband, Fletcher and I checked-in at Hotel Felix to enjoy a weekend in Cambridge. We arrived with a very excited Fletcher who by the time we got to reception was breathing like a dragon. I think the poor receptionist expected to see a beast, but instead she was greeted by a crazy cocker who wasted no time in creating a commotion by squealing and jumping around. At that point I half expected to be told to leave, but staff were very welcoming, fussed Fletch and showed us to our dogfriendly room. The room was spacious, well-equipped and had a bag of Norfolk’s Pooch’s handmade dog treats waiting for Fletcher. One of the best things about Hotel Felix is

dogs are welcome to dine with owners in the orangery so you don’t have to worry about leaving them in the room. On our way to dinner Fletcher found one of the hallway water bowls for doggy guests; five minutes of slurping and the place was soaked! He is a messy drinker, he dunks the majority of his head in a bowl, slops water everywhere, while his ears soak up the rest! Embarrassingly, I had to ask someone to mop it up! We enjoyed a lovely three course meal with dishes beautifully presented. It was all going so well until a terrier showed up and Fletcher insisted on meeting him, sending chairs flying. At that point I returned him to the room so I could enjoy my dessert in peace; a pistachio and olive oil cake with peach sorbet, which was worth every calorie! The next morning, we enjoyed a veggie breakfast and Fletcher spent an hour running around the beautiful garden chasing sticks (staff probably now realise why there were branches all over the lawn – sorry!). We then walked into Cambridge which took about 25 minutes but was worth avoiding the traffic and parking queues. We browsed the shops and wandered around the colleges and it was lovely to see so many owners enjoying a Sunday morning with their pets. I did suggest the idea of punting. My husband took one look at Fletcher who was screaming at the sight of the River Cam and said “NO!”. Oh well, maybe that’s one for summer… eastlife.co.uk

With permission of EDP - credit Simon Finley

Your legacy can help EACH be there for future generations, helping every child make the most of life – no matter how short. To receive your information pack, call 01223 204913, email supportercare@each.org.uk or complete the coupon below: We value your support and are committed to respecting your privacy. Your details will be kept securely and only shared with service providers who work on our behalf or with us for administration purposes and to further our charitable aims. We will never sell or swap your data. Please send this coupon to: Freepost Plus RSHE-ZRBH-JBJY, EACH, 42 High Street, Milton, Cambridge, CB24 6DF www.each.org.uk Registered charity number:1069284

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* Cambridge Park & Ride – Taking you into the heart of Cambridge Buses depart every 10 minutes Mon-Sat during the day and every 20 minutes after 6.30pm Every 15 minutes (9am - 6pm) Sundays and public holidays

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Open seven days a week *The Park & Ride return ticket is £3 and with this ticket up to three children travel for free Concessionary pass holders travel for free with their passes after 9.30am Monday to Friday, and all day at the weekend and on bank holidays The bus fare is £3 return and parking costs £1 for up to 18 hours and can be paid in advance via VIVOPARK – visit www.cambridgeparkandride.info to find out more.

HEALTH CLUB MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Park & Ride Group Ticket is £8.50 and can only be purchased from the driver – it allows a group of up to 5 people to travel together. Park & Ride Weekly tickets cost just £13.50 and are valid for 7 days Further information: www.cambridgeparkandride.info

Toft Road, Cambridge CB23 2TT

01954 718383 info@bourngolfandleisure.co.uk www.bourngolfandleisure.co.uk

Little East

MUM’s the Word Written by Dolly Osborne

Only fools rush in…

iddy romance is meant to be the folly of youth. It is fools who rush in and when we hit a certain age we are most definitely not foolish thank you very much. However recent interactions with my children have made me question this wisdom, perhaps the age of foolish romance has passed? I’m not saying that children are no longer romantic, anyone who follows my column will know how seriously my son takes Valentine’s Day; he values love, hopes to have it in his life, he’s also just very sensible. The conversation that triggered these thoughts happened over Christmas. My son came back from his father’s house and announced that his dad was getting married. It is a semi-arranged marriage, his bride is in India and he was introduced to her by his family when he went there earlier in the year. They seem well matched and everyone seems excited. Too excited according to my boy: “I’m very worried mummy,” he said earnestly one evening. “Daddy is going too fast with everything. They are getting married really soon and I told him I think it’s too soon.” A little taken aback I asked his father’s response: “Daddy said that when you know you know but I said you’ve thought you knew at least twice before and that didn’t work out for you did it? Then he told me off so I couldn’t say anymore but I’m right aren’t I

Mummy? He should take things more slowly.” I was gobsmacked. Mostly at how right I thought he was but wasn’t it a bit cynical for one so young? A few days later I was chatting to the 14-year-old. She was telling me of a girl in her class who is already planning a wedding and children with her boyfriend. Her distain was palpable. The idea of planning a happy ever after so young was absolutely ridiculous, she said. Also, she went on, “how can you possibly think you’ve found the right person if you’ve only ever been out with one person?” I was a little stunned. I agree with both of them absolutely but I don’t think I held those thoughts when I was their age. In fact, I was probably the friend that my eldest talked about scornfully. Have I taught my children these hard lessons of life without realising it or are we in an age now with so much access to gossip, to reality that fairytales have become things to mock rather than aspire to? Perhaps this generation have learned from the high divorce rates and gossip columns? Ironically, through taking time to fall in love, they may all live happily ever after? Read more from Dolly at www.raggydollywrites. wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus eastlife.co.uk

February Fun S

o, it may seem like the kids have only just gone back to school after the Christmas break but it’s already almost February half term. Stuck for things to do? Liz Mattock lists her top picks…

Norfolk Spread your wings and flutter along to Pensthorpe Nature Reserve who host a calendar packed full of half term delights. From the 14 – 21 February, families will have the opportunity to help celebrate National Nest Box Week by exploring the nest box trail that will challenge your native wildlife knowledge and captivate you at the same time. Young ones can even build their own nest box to take home. Further details can be found at www.pensthorpe.com Photo credit: Steve Adams Pensthorpe Nature Reserve

We’ve teamed up with Pensthorpe Nature Reserve to offer readers the chance to win a family ticket for up to 4 people (2 adults and 2 children) to visit Pensthorpe Natural Park in 2018. For more information visit www.eastlife.co.uk or follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines and ﬁnd out how to enter! If you fancy starting the half term off with a bite, why not meet volunteers from the Norfolk Wildlife Trust on Monday 12 February at NWT Holme Dunes as they search for sharks’ egg cases, more commonly known as mermaid purses. You can help the team identify the sharks that can be found off the coast of Norfolk. The search begins at 10am at the visitors centre, before heading to the beach until 12.30pm. www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/whats-on

Ickworth House

Suffolk Discover Ickworth in the West Suffolk countryside by joining one of the circular walks which passes by Ickworth Walled Garden and the canal lake. On the way, see if you can spot the seasonal meadow, the church and the Rotunda, not forgetting the old summer house. Visit the National Trust website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth/trails/ ickworth-walled-garden-and-canal-walk to print off a guide map with pictures and information about what you’ll be seeing, and don’t forget to pack a picnic – there are some perfect spots to stop and take in the scenery. If four legs rather than two is more your thing, it’s the perfect time of year to get up close and personal with some white woolly four-legged friends. Take part in some lamb cuddling over half term at Baylham House Farm. On top of seeing and feeding all of your farm favourites, during half term, the keepers have a number of ‘hands on’ animal experiences lined up for you, including lamb cuddling, pig grooming, goat grooming, den building and a snuggly bunny barn. The farm opens from 10am - 5pm each day throughout half term, apart from Monday 12 February. Adults: £7 - Children (4-16): £3 - Under 4’s are free. www.baylham-house-farm.co.uk

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Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire Go wild at Whipsnade Zoo, the largest in the UK with 3,800 creatures and 600 acres of stunning scenery. Watch the elephants on their daily perimeter walk, see one of the fastest cats on the planet – the cheetah and take a trip to the rhino paddock, just don’t get the hump with the camels. Being one of the biggest zoos in the UK, the best way to see everything is to take the Jumbo Express Steam Train. Enjoy daily animal shows with a variety of the residents before heading to the restaurants for some much needed refreshments. Find out more as well as the latest special offers on tickets at www.zsl.org/zsl-whipsnade-zoo Stuck with a teenager for the holidays? St Albans has the answer with its very own Pioneer Skatepark to get their wheels in a spin. Aimed at teenagers between 12 and 16 there are ramps for all abilities and if they like it that much the centre runs a Sunday Skate School and Thursday beginners session by Alex Barton who is ranked as one of the top 10 skateboarders in the UK. More information can be found online at www.pioneerclub.co.uk

Cambridgeshire If you are looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of day trips during half term week, why not try a free night out on Tuesday 13 February from 4.30pm until 7.30pm at Twilight at the Museums? Step out and explore 14 local museums in Cambridgeshire after dark and unearth some real timepieces and historical artefacts, all with their own story to tell. There will be drop in activities and themed trails. Pack a torch and experience some ‘Neon Navigation’ at All Saints Church, meet some Arctic explorers at the Polar Museum, set out on a scientific expedition across the Whipple Museum, and try your hand at code cracking with the Museum of Technology. A full programme is available here www.museums.cam.ac.uk/whats-on/twilight-at-the-museums

Essex

Photo credit: Steve Adams - Pensthorpe Nature Reserve

Mayhem in the Mad Lab at Royal Gunpowder Mills ensues between 10-18 February from 10am until 5pm. You can head on over to the Royal Gunpowder Mills at Waltham Abbey and take part in some awesome science activities with Professor Nitrate. Visit the Science Stations where kids can test their scientific skills at making their very own floam and space sand as well as test the latest fun waterproof sand, bicarb bombs, Ferrofluid and Fizzy Cloud Dough all behind the safety of a protective screen. The Rocket Room is for all budding astronauts, build a rocket to launch and take home as a reminder of the day. Prices are £10.50 for adults and £8.50 for children. More information at www.royalgunpowdermills.com Fitness and fun make the perfect combination for an afternoon at Colchester Leisure World whatever the weather. Visitors can take advantage of its 25m long fitness pool, including lanes for slow, intermediate and expert swimmers as well as a family leisure pool boasting 13 metre flumes, a crazy river, wave machine, shipwreck and spa pool bubbles. The centre provides snacks, meals and parking onsite. Find out more at www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk

Steam Heritage|Gardens|Garden Centre

w w w. br e s s i n g h a m . c o . u k

FEBRUARY HALF TERM OPENING Sat 10 Feb 2018 to Sun 18 Feb 2018

Open 11th Feb - 19th Feb.17

Daily during half term between 11am and 4pm (last ride 4pm)

visit bressingham.co.uk for events & online booking visit bressingham.co.uk for events & online booking

Welcome to High Lodge, Darsham

A Unique Venue

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

Kids for a Quid during our February Half Term Services

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

The Epping Ongar Railway is the most accessible steam railway by public transport in London - with vintage buses running from right outside of Epping Underground.

This is Golf...give it a try? visit: www.highlodge.co.uk/activities/golf-in-suffolk

This February Half Term child fares are just

Take a look at our website for details of other events during the year.

12-2.30pm every Sunday

eorailway.co.uk

01277 365200

Epping Ongar Railway

Have-a-Go Clay Shooting

visit the website www.highlodge.co.uk email info@highlodge.co.uk tel 01986 784347

eorailway 01277 365200

find us just off the A12 near Darsham Suffolk IP17 3QT

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09/01/2017 17:52

Archery

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@cwewgc

Truly Independent

Day and boarding for girls and boys aged 3 to 18 Forward-thinking, creative and supportive environment where children are treated as individuals Green and spacious 25 acre campus on the edge of Letchworth with top class facilities for sport, music, art and design Extensive school bus network to surrounding towns and villages and shuttle bus to Letchworth train station

OPEN MORNING Saturday 28 April 2018 To find out more call 01462 650 947 or email admissions@stchris.co.uk www.stchris.co.uk B8291 StC 107x148mmL 2.indd 1

ď&#x201A;&#x2122; @StChris_School

ď&#x2026; stchris_school 18/12/2017 14:09

TRADITIONAL VALUES GOOD BEHAVIOUR RESPECT FOR OTHERS PREP SCHOOL

SENIOR SCHOOL

Purpose-built Prep School and Nursery n Set in mature woodland n Strong English and Maths focus n Specialist teaching in all core subjects

Extensive facilities set in 110 acres Engaging and challenging curriculum n Small classes with specialist teachers n Modern, well-equipped Sixth Form Centre n

To book your individual tour, please contact 01787 474040 gosfieldschool.org.uk admissions@gosfieldschool.org.uk

Gosfield School, Cut Hedge Park, Halstead Road, Gosfield, Essex, CO9 1PF

School

Education

OPEN DAYS

new year is a chance to view the region’s finest schools. Make the right choice for your child and stop by one of the upcoming open days…

ESSEX Colchester Royal Grammar School 6 Lexden Rd, Colchester CO3 3ND Tel: 01206 509100 Open day: 11+ open evening, 26 June, 6.20pm-9pm CRGS is an 11-18 state selective grammar school which admits boys from Year 7 and has a co-educational Sixth Form. www.crgs.co.uk St Mary’s School for Girls 91 Lexden Road, Colchester CO3 3RB Tel: 01206 572544 Open days: Kindergarten and Lower School, 17 March, 9.30-11am; Senior School, 27 February, 10.30-12pm and 3 March, 10am-12pm. A high achieving independent school for girls aged 3-16 with a focus on building confidence and academic achievement. www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk Brentwood School Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood CM15 8EE

Tel: 01277 243243 Open day: 9 June, arrival times: 9.30am or 10.30am, Talk times: 10.30am & 11.30am. An independent day and boarding school in Essex for boys and girls aged 3 to 18. www.brentwoodschool.co.uk Oxford House 2 - 4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE Tel: 01206 576686 Open day: 22 March 6pm – 8.30pm An independent co-educational school for children aged 2 and half to 11 years. www.oxfordhouseschool.net St. Michael’s Church of England Preparatory School 198 Hadleigh Road Leigh-on-Sea Essex SS9 2LP Tel: 01702 478719 Open day: 2 March 10.30am – 12 noon & 3 March 10.30am – 12.30pm A a non-selective school for children aged 3-11 years. www.stmichaelsschool.com

eastlife.co.uk

T S APIENTIA

WYMONDHAM COLLEGE

MAIN SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Saturday 17 March 2018 09:00 - 11:00 Why is Wymondham College one of the UK’s highest performing state boarding / day schools? World Class School Accreditation Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ in both education and boarding Great value boarding fees at just over £10,000 per year with free education for all Over 60 extra curricular activities Outstanding results at GCSE and A-Level

BOARDER TASTER EVENING Friday 16 March 2018 17:45 - 20:30 Registration required for both events. You can register on our website at www.wymondhamcollege.org

Contact admissions for applications for both Main School and Sixth Form admissions@wymondhamcollege.org | 01953 609014 | www.wymondhamcollege.org

We provide all children with a broad and balanced curriculum which focuses on the development of the whole child as an inquirer and learner.

Visit St. Michael’s on our open mornings: Friday, 2nd March 10.30am – 12 noon & Saturday, 3rd March 10.30a.m – 12.30 p.m 198 Hadleigh Road Leigh-on-Sea Essex SS9 2LP 01702 478719 admissions@stmichaelsschool.com www.stmichaelsschool.com

WymondhamCollege @WymondhamCol

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Cambridge International School, Cherry Hinton Hall Lodge, Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge CB1 8DW Tel: 01223 416938 Open days: 10 February and 3 March The school provides an inspiring and exciting education for children aged 3-18. www.cambridgeinternationalschool.co.uk Wisbech Grammar School 47 North Brink, Wisbech PE13 1JX Tel: 01945 583631 Prep School taster session week, w/c 5 February; Whole School Open Morning, 17 March, 9.30am-12.30pm; Prep 5 (Year 5) Taster Day, 28 April, 9.30am-3pm. Wisbech Grammar School is a community populated by individuals instilled with a sense of purpose and passion. For pupils aged 4-18, it continues to perform at the highest level with consistently very high pass rates and similar percentages of pupils going on to study at their first choice university. www.wisbechgrammar.com

NORFOLK Wymondham College Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 9SZ Tel: 01953 609000 Open days: Boarder taster evening, 16 March, 5.458.30pm; Main School open morning, 17 March, 9-11am; Sixth Form mini open mornings, 3 and 24 February and 28 April A school for students aged 11-18, boarders and day pupils. www.wymondhamcollege.org East Norfolk Sixth Form Church Lane, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, NR31 7BQ Tel: 01493 662234 Open days: Careers Fair, 1 March, 10am-12.30pm; Information evening, 7 March, 4-7pm The sixth form college welcomes 1,700 students to study a curriculum with over 80 A Level and BTEC subjects at Level 3 and Level 2. www.eastnorfolk.ac.uk Norwich High School for Girls 95 Newmarket Road, Norwich NR2 2HU Tel: 01603 453265 Open day: Open Week from 12 -16 March. Tours and visits can also be arranged by appointment.

Northampton High School Hardingstone, Northampton NN4 6UU Tel: 01604 765765 Open day: Junior STEM Day, 8 February. An independent day school for girls aged from 3 - 18 years. www.northamptonhigh.co.uk Cambridge Regional College Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge, CB4 2QT Tel: 01223 418200 Open Day: 3 March 2018 9:30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12:30pm Highly-rated further education college with excellent fulltime and part-time courses, apprenticeships and Higher Education, and professional training for businesses. www.camre.ac.uk

The school offers an education which is about more than exams, with sport, music, art, performance and innovative enrichment opportunities, for girls aged 3-18. www.norwichhigh.gdst.net

SUFFOLK Stoke College Stoke by Clare, Sudbury, CO10 8JE Tel: 01787 278 141 Open days: Prep, 23 February, 9.30am-12pm; Senior, 24 February, 9.30am-12pm An independent day and boarding school with a focus on strong academic progress, providing too a breadth of experience and opportunity to develop character and help each child to discern their future. www.stokecollege.co.uk South Lee School Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 2BT Tel: 01284 754654 Open Morning: 24 February, 10am-12noon Independent Day School & Nursery for boys and girls aged 2 to 13, offering a stimulating and caring environment for your child. www.southlee.co.uk

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Nurturing talent, enabling success www.southlee.co.uk

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 24th February 2018 | 10am-12noon

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE



South Lee School

Educating children from nursery to 13 years

T: 01284 754654 E: office@southlee.co.uk

St Mary's ad Eastlife Jan 2018 107mm h x 148mm w_Layout 1 12/12/2017 12:32 Page 1

Happy girls are high achievers.

Come along to our 2018 Spring Open Days: Kindergarten and Lower School Saturday 17 March, 9.30-11.00; Senior School Tuesday 27 February, 10.30-12.00 & Saturday 3 March, 10.00-12.00

St Mary’s Colchester

For more information, please contact our Registrar, 01206 216420 registrar@stmaryscolchester.org.uk www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk

OUTSTANDING SCHOOL 2015/16

SIS

• Montessori teaching methods • Emphasis on academic achievement • Strong traditional values • Music, dance and drama enrich the curriculum

An independent co-educational school for children aged 2½ - 11 years

Please join us for our next Open Evening on Thursday 22nd March 6.00pm – 8.30pm Please contact our Admissions Registrar, Mrs Harding on 01206 576686. 2 - 4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE

www.oxfordhouseschool.net

Open Events Whole School Open Days

I believe in keeping an open mind Open Morning Wednesday 7th March, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL HARPENDEN

A non-denominational Christian day and boarding school

Thursday 8 March 5.00pm - 7.00pm Friday 9 March 9.30am - 12noon

We believe in our girls. And they believe in themselves. Visit us to see what we mean northamptonhigh.gdst.net 01604 765765

11-18 boarding at one of the UK's top performing non-selective coeducational schools for £3950 per term Only 30 minutes from St Pancras International Less than an hour by road from Heathrow, Stansted and Luton

Herts AL5 4TD | boardingadmissions@stgeorges.herts.sch.uk | 01582 716284

www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk

Colchester Royal Grammar School 11+ Open Evening Tuesday 26th June, 6.30pm - 9.00pm

CRGS is an 11-18 state selective grammar school which admits boys from Year 7 and has a co-educational Sixth Form. It is one of the top-performing schools in the country and is one of very few state boarding schools, with accommodation for 30 Sixth Form students. The family atmosphere, culture of academic excellence and care for the wellbeing of students are key features of the school.

No appointments necessary - limited parking at rear of school 6 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3ND Tel: 01206 509100 - www.crgs.co.uk

NURSERY

Discover our outstanding school for girls aged 3 to 18 at our next

PREP SCHOOL SENIOR SCHOOL

Monday 12th to Friday 16th March 2018

SIXTH FORM

To book your place email admissions@nor.gdst.net or call 01603 453 265. NORWICH HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

HERTFORDSHIRE Tring Park School Tring, HP23 5LX Tel: 01442 824255 Open days: Preps taster morning, 1 February; Open day, 16 March An outstanding performing arts school for talented young individuals, that also focuses on an academic education. www.tringpark.com St Francis College Broadway, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3PJ Tel: 01462 670511 Open days: 21 April, 10am-12.30pm and 27 April, 9am-12.30pm An all-girls school that provides an excellent education, focusing on nurturing the individual talents of its pupils, aged between three and 18 years old. www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

St George’s School Sun Lane, Harpenden AL5 4TD Tel: 01582 765477 Open days: Contact directly for further details An academy, all-ability, Christian Foundation but nondenominational school for boys and girls. www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk St Christopher School, Letchworth Barrington Road, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3JZ Tel: 01462 650850 Open day: 28 April An independent school for girls and boys aged 3–18. www.stchris.co.uk

Howe Green House School Great Hallingbury, Bishop’s Stortford CM22 7UF Tel: 01279 657706 Open day: Dates to be announced The school offers education for children with the opportunities to achieve their academic potential within a family environment. www.howegreenhouse.essex.sch.uk

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The Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Head - Ivinghoe

SOMETHING R O F K C U T S WEEK? TO DO THIS Visit us www.eastlife.co.uk for the latest events in your area.

An appealing mix of oak beams, log fires, antique furniture and fresh flowers sets the scene in the bars, fine dining restaurant, coffee lounge and Banqueting Suite where the marks of history are firmly stamped. The dining room comfortable seats 60 in comfort and offers an a la carte menu at luncheon and dinner, additionally the Bon Appetit menu at luncheon (Monday to Saturday only) offers exceptional value.

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T FORGOT TO ENTER OUR COMPETITIONS! www.eastlife.co.uk/lifestyle/competitions/

01296 668388

Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 9EB reservations@kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk

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Food & Drink

Food Drink news Oakman Inns opens latest venture in Olney, Bucks

Cherry Tree Olney | image: Marc - NTA

Since acquiring the freehold of Westlands House in Olney, back in October 2016, Oakman Inns & Restaurants are finally ready to open the doors to the Grade II listed pub. Named The Cherry Tree, after Olney’s annual June Cherry Fair, the pub is set to reopen in March. Located at 3 High Street, the stylish bar and restaurant will be serving Mediterraneaninfluenced dishes, which can be seen being prepared in the open kitchen. Steaks, fish and pizzas from the wood-burning stove are also on the menu. Find out more about the opening via Facebook at www.facebook.com/pg/cherrytreeolney or call 01442 890844 to book at table.

Treat your loved one to a romantic night out on Valentine’s Day, at the White Lion Hotel, in Aldeburgh. Head chef, James Barber, has created a special menu sure to set the mood for love. The romantic evening begins at 7pm with a glass of pink champagne followed by a four-course candlelit dinner to the soothing sound of jazz, all for just £80 per couple including a gift for your partner. Stay the night and enjoy a leisurely morning over breakfast

before taking a stroll along the beach. The White Lion’s popular series of afternoon teas also continues during the romantic month of February on a ‘We Love’ theme with a tempting mix of delicate finger sandwiches and sweet treats to share with your partner. Served daily from 3pm to 5pm in the hotel’s informal Brasserie Bleue, its priced at £15 per person including your choice of tea or coffee; why not add a little fizz with a glass of sparkling Prosecco for an extra £6. For more details visit www.whitelion.co.uk.

Double festival joy for beer lovers this month Suffolk brewery launched World’s First Organic Alcohol-free Beer Beer lovers can include two local festivals in their plans for winter fun this month. The Great British Beer Festival Winter in Norwich returns on 20 - 24 February at The Halls, with special events taking place in pubs as part of the fringe throughout the entire month. The Chelmsford Winter Beer & Cider Festival will take place from 14-17 February, from 12noon - 11pm, at the King Edward VI Grammar School on Broomfield Road. Tickets are priced £3 and are available on the door. Dedicated beer enthusiasts can kick off their beer tour in Chelmsford, where a traditional festival will offer 190 different beers, over 50 ciders and a selection of wine along with a great food offering, while the Great British Beer Festival Winter, will boast a huge range of real ales and international beers, ciders, perries, food and entertainment.

Looking for the healthiest and tastiest alcohol-free beer? Then pick up a bottle of Without Organic, a delicious, full-bodied, zero-alcohol beer. Launched by Suffolk micro brewery, St Peter’s, last month, Without Organic aims to target health-conscious consumers looking for a pure, natural and zero-alcohol craft beer that is as good as the real thing. Without Organic is a delicious, rich and full-bodied beer that is perfect for lager and ale drinkers. It is golden in colour and has a slight maltiness balanced with a sweet after taste. www.stpetersbrewery.co.uk

Tickets can be purchased online at winter.gbbf.org.uk/tickets/ and will also be available at the door. More information at www.chelmsfordbeerandciderfestivals.camra.org.uk

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Cambridge Bistro & Wine Bar Head Chef Nolan, formerly of SoHo House, has put Cambridge Bistro on the map as a south Cambridgeshire destination The menu is contemporary Italian & Scandinavian set in a relaxed Scandi chic dining room A bijoux wine list and a commitment to local and organic producers has resulted in our Bistro being one of the most talked about new restaurants and wine bars Homerton Gardens, Purbeck Road, CB2 8EB www.cambridgecookery.com | 01223 247620 ccookeryschool

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Cambridge The

Gerla de Boer, founder of the Cambridge Food Tour, (www.cambridgefoodtour.com) shares her wisdom of the city’s cuisine…

Foodie

New restaurant openings in 2018 N

ew year, new places to go. Not just that, but the food scene is also on a roll! From top-notch to Indian, Iraqi and Lebanese to big names coming to Cambridge and the take over of a Cambridge institution. How do you find out about the new places to eat or drink? I am sure your answer will be via social media. For a foodie like me it is not just social media, but talking to people and cycling through the city. If I see changes somewhere, I tend to peek my head through the door and find out from the builders. In this way, we are always one of the first to know. Sometimes I have to keep these changes to myself and I can tell you, that it is quite often very difficult as I love to share it with others. One of the new names coming to Cambridge I found out about via Instagram. I’ve followed Sam Carter (@sam34_c_) since last year as I noticed he was not only a very good chef but from Cambridge too. During the summer I asked him via a DM if he could open a restaurant in Cambridge. Much to my surprise, the answer was “soon”! I have to admit, that I did do a little dance. So the waiting game is over and I can now shout it from the roof, Sam has taken over one of the Cambridge institutions, Restaurant 22 on Chesterton Road.It closed in January for a refurb and the plan is to open mid-March. So who is Sam? At the age of 14, Sam started working in pubs in his hometown of Melton Mowbray (the rural capital of food!). His CV lists the Michelin starred restaurant Hambleton Hall, running a village gastro pub for nearly three years, Gordon Ramsay Holdings (mainly at the Michelin starred Maze but also others in his group) and head chef at UBS where he developed his own style. No time wasted though as on his days off he spent time working in any kitchen that would let him in to learn, Le champignon Sauvage, Midsummer House, Texture, Pollen Street and Galvin @ Windows were amongst them. His dream now has come true as he and his fiancee Alex will have their own restaurant and even better,

Sam Carter

a Cambridge institution! I was lucky enough to have a preview of the menu and it looks fantastic and reasonably priced, the 7-course tasting menu is £45. Sam’s style is modern British with a big emphasis on seasonal and local ingredients, flavour and texture. The private room will stay and they will be offering catering too! More openings in 2018: The Tiffin Truck - Indian Street Food Raymond Blanc - Gastro Pub in Histon The Ivy - set to open in April Lagona Bakery - Lebanese pastry Samaan - Iraqi restaurant Parkers Tavern - set to open in June Tamburlaine - new team in the kitchen Sticky Beaks - taken over by Abantu Three Horse Shoes - taken over by Cambscuisine Bridges - have had a revamp eastlife.co.uk

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Health

Can I Foster?

his month is ‘Fostering February’, a campaign which aims to raise awareness about what fostering care involves and dispels the myths and misconceptions which surround it. If you have thought about fostering but don’t know where to start, the National Fostering Agency (NFA) have provided a simple guide to answering those initial questions... Three important things to know Here at NFA we know that successful foster families come in all shapes and sizes, so today we would like to dispel a few myths to explain who can foster and help you to decide if becoming a foster parent is something that might be a good option for you. First, let’s talk about the three most important things you need to be able to commit to before becoming a foster parent. Along with a bedroom that could be used exclusively for a foster child, you’ll also need the patience and understanding required to help nurture a child placed in your care. As you’d expect, being able to commit time to care for a child properly is also incredibly important and at least one carer needs to be on hand all of the time. However, if you are part of a couple where one of you works full-time or you are a single parent, fostering could be an option for you.

Download Our App Today!

LGBT fostering If you’re gay and wondering about fostering, have a look at the information that explains all about fostering for gay people and couples. Just as it doesn’t matter whether foster carers are single or part of a couple, gender or sexual orientation is not a factor for consideration either. We’ll always consider whether candidates are capable of providing a stable and caring home for a foster child, so if you think you fit the bill, do get in touch.

Fostering for all We welcome fostering applications from individuals and couples from all ethnic groups and work with social workers to place children of diverse ethnic groups. When placing a foster child, workers will always prioritise the needs of a child, which means you’ll need to support a sense of positive ethnic identity or religion but you won’t necessarily need to be of the same ethnicity or religion to be matched with a child. If you have any questions, please get in touch for a chat – no question is too silly.

Fostering as a single parent We have lots of foster parents working with us who are single parents. You don’t need to be part of a couple to foster; what matters is that you’re able to dedicate enough time and energy to looking after the child or children in your care. As a single foster carer this may mean that you need to be at home full-time or have flexible employment that can fit around the needs of a child.

Fostering for retired/older people Fostering can be a very rewarding experience for older and retired people. Many people find when their biological families move out or they no longer work full-time that they have lots of energy they’d like to share with others. If this sounds like you, you could be a great candidate for fostering! There is no upper age limit for becoming a foster parent; so as long as you’re fit and healthy your application will be considered like any other.

Can I foster if I don’t have experience of childcare? As part of your fostering application, you’ll be assessed to see where you may need extra support as you prepare to become a foster parent. While we do welcome applications from individuals and couples who have experience of caring for children – either within their career or perhaps looking after other family members – if you’re hoping to look after children for the first time we can support your fostering journey too. Hopefully this has answered some of your fostering questions but if you have any outstanding queries or would like to understand more about the process please do visit nfa.co.uk or call 0800 044 3030 and speak to one of the fostering advisers.

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INDEPENDENT DIABETES TRUST

DIABETES - HERE TO HELP E N T P E N D I N D E

These booklets provide you with help and advice about everyday aspects of living with diabetes

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Hospital treatment without the wait. By paying for the hospital treatment you need, you can avoid the wait and go straight to feeling better faster. Nuffield Health. Specialists in you. Join us for one of our FREE open events at Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital Thinking about Cosmetic Surgery? Thursday 22nd February 2018 · 6.30pm Considering Ear Pinning or Nose Reshaping? Thursday 22nd February 2018 · 6.30pm Thinking about Varicose Vein Treatment? Thursday 1st March 2018 - 6.30pm Worried about Moles & Melanomas? Tuesday 6th March 2018 - 6.30pm Men’s Health worries? Thursday 15th March 2018 - 6.30pm Places are limited and booking is essential. Book online at nuffieldhealth.com/book or call 01277 886 706 Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital Shenfield Road Brentwood Essex CM15 8EH

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The Nourishing Hand and Body Cream by Boxworth Botanicals Boxworth Botanicals is a family business in Cambridgeshire, which manufacture and sell Parabens Free Natural Skincare inspired by the active ingredients of plants, flowers and herbs. They specialise in high quality treatment creams and botanical gifts. We highly recommend the Nourishing Hand and Body Cream; a special blend of pure essential oils with a heavenly uplifting fragrance including Geranium, Sandalwood Amyris and Lime, with Borage, Chamomile, Almond, Ginseng and Comfrey all to nourish, hydrate and repair the skin. It smells gorgeous too – the aroma wafted around the office for hours! Try some for yourself with our Eastlife February offer. Buy a 100ml pot of Nourishing cream for only £10 +p&p (normally 12.50 +p&p) Enter code ELFEB at checkout. Offer ends 28 February 2018 www.boxworthbotanicals.com

Be a natural beauty A

t the beginning of the year most of us pledged to fill our body with goodness and nutrition, but did you stop to think about the beauty products you are using? Our skin is the biggest organ of the body, but often we forget that it also needs the nutrition that the rest of our body seeks. Thankfully, the beauty industry

TIANA Fair Trade Organics Argan Fresh Coconut TLC – Intensive Hydration Treatment for hair Using the benefits of coconut to revitalise hair is nothing new, but if you want your hair to look as radiant as your skin this is one to try. Using a combination of intensive coconut oil and butters together with top quality cold pressed virgin Argan oil from Morocco, this intensive hair treatment replenishes hair so that it is more manageable, undamaged and hydrated with a wonderful, shiny and silky appearance. Available at Holland & Barrett Nationwide, Lloyds Pharmacy and Independent Health Stores. www.tiana-coconut.com

is changing and more than ever before there are a number of products available which make the most of nature’s ingredients. We’ve rounded up a couple of our favourites that everyone should most definitely have in their bathroom cabinet…

Intensive Moisturising Ointment by Pure Potions Skin Salvation If you’re struggling with dry, sensitive or allergyprone skin, we’ve found a little something that may help. Skin Salvation’s Intensive Moisturising Ointment is a traditional bees-wax based balm, which uses the properties of hemp seed oil to help combat essential fatty acids (EFAs) that block the skins cell membranes and stop hydration. Its natural ingredients give the skin a serious boost of nutrition and hydration. It’s available at Boots, Waitrose and Holland & Barrett priced from £7.99. For a little relaxation, try the Bath & Body Emollient Oil too!

E’lifexir Natural Beauty fitness body contouring gel If your New Year resolutions were to get fit and try a vegan lifestyle, then E’lifexir Natural Beauty new body treatment range ticks all the boxes. Using natural and organic plant and fruit extracts, no parabens, acrylates or other nasty formulas, the body countering gel formulated with a combination of caffeine and dragon eye extract helps to shape and protect from the accumulation of fat deposits for a more sculpted looking figure. Price: £15.99 for 150ml. Available exclusively in Holland and Barrett.

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The 2018

Prom Dress Collection Prom Events 6th & 28th February and 15th March. Hair and Make-up demonstrations by Genesis Hair and Hannah Sharp. See our websiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events page for further information and half-term opening hours.

Mother of the Bride, Special Occasion Wear, Evening Wear, Fuller Figures, Prom Dresses. 7 High Street, Fenstanton, Cambs PE28 9LQ

01480 461187 www.cream-rose.co.uk

OPEN: Tuesday 11:00am to 4:00pm, Wednesday to Friday 10:00am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Sunday by Appointment.

Fashion

Shoes, lovely Shoes… Written by Ruth Essex, My Colour Coach

t is February, officially the month of love, so why not dig out your sexiest shoes? I hold my hand up and admit that I am a girl that loves her shoes. And I do own a pair or two…or more. Maybe quite a lot more, but whatever….

I am not alone either as many, many women have a weakness for shoes. And why is this? What could possibly make us want to buy even more shoes? In my opinion, it is driven by desire. Shoes have the power to make us feel like the women we want to be. Obviously not every day is a killer heels day, and the joy of a comfortable, warm, flat boot in bad weather is not to be underestimated. But fundamentally, we buy more shoes than we technically need because of how they make us feel and the emotions we experience from owning and wearing them. The right shoe can make us feel modern, fun, trendy, minimalist, casual, classy, sassy or sexy. So, what constitutes a sexy shoe? Heels are obvious as they stretch the calf and make legs look longer. However, a shoe does not need to be a vertiginously high, red leather soled Louboutin to be sexy; flats can be sexy too. In fact, shoes that are too high throw you off balance and wobbling on platforms does not help your sexy wiggle as you cross the cocktail bar. Pointed toes tend to be sexier than round toes, which err more on the side of innocence.

Think black leather stiletto compared to a pale pink satin ballet shoe. A low vamp, (how far up your foot the shoe covers) works better than a high vamp, because showing more skin elongates the leg, whereas high vamps have the opposite, shortening effect. Suede is subtle however patent is more overt and straps or peep toes increase the sexiness too. It depends how high you want to ramp up the sex appeal of your outfit! So, whatever you wear, when you are outfit planning, don’t forget the message your shoes are giving out too, and put your best foot forward on Valentine’s Day! Ruth Essex, Stylist & Image Consultant ruthcrofts@btinternet.com 07900 910 666

Primark shoes £14

Dune £95

M&S £49.50 Office £69

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HUNTINGDON TOWN HALL The beautifully restored Grade II* Listed Georgian Town Hall is situated on the historic Market Square in Huntingdon. The building boasts two renovated Court Rooms to provide a unique and intimate setting for up to 60 guests. For larger ceremonies and receptions, the Assembly Hall and Council Chamber provide elegant spaces for parties of up to 120.

Specialising in floral designs for every occasion, traditional or contemporary.

The Town Hall is available for viewing via appointment. Should you wish to visit, please contact Hayley Burns on 01480 410380 or email hayley.burns@huntingdontown.gov.uk

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

SPRING WEDDING FAIR

Created and presented by our friendly, expert team of florists

on Sunday 15th April 2018, from 11:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 15:00. For more information visit www.huntingdontownweddings.co.uk/wedding-fairs

43 High Street, Newport Pagnell

01908 611082 www.bluebellflowers.co.uk

To advertise in the next

Eastlife Wedding Special

email: enquiries@eastlife.co.uk

Wedding The

Issue

ewly engaged and don’t know where to start? Don’t panic, we’ve got everything you need to know about planning your big day within our wedding special. Read our guide to some of the quirkiest venues in the East of England, find out where you can browse the best regional suppliers and discover 2018’s hottest trends that will get your wedding guests talking…

Wedding Trends of 2018 Written by Katrina Otter

ast year I shared my top trend predictions for 2017 including the incredibly popular and still firmly on-trend greenery (Pantone’s colour of the year), asymmetrical flowers/foliage and silk and cotton table runners. The good news, 2018 promises to be just as inspirational and packed full of trend predictions that can easily be incorporated into the design and style of your day. So here it is, my guide to the wedding trends to look out for and be inspired by in 2018:

Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2018 We have a new and unexpected Pantone colour of the year this year in the form of Ultra Violet (PANTONE 18-3838) – a deep, blue-based, vibrant purple. The announcement by Pantone has caused a little debate and very mixed reactions in the wedding industry but I for one am fully embracing and celebrating such a bold choice…if incorporated in moderation and combined with neutral and balancing undertones.

Velvet If you go in to any high street shop you’re bound to notice an abundance of velvet so of course this trend has been transferred from our wardrobes to our weddings. Some suggestions of how you can incorporate this trend into your wedding include everything from table linen to wedding party attire, trailing bouquet ribbons to vintage inspired heirloom ring boxes (check out Mrs Box or La Petit Box).

Circular floral backdrops In 2018 ceremony floral arches are going circular! Whilst traditional archways are still a timeless option, a giant floral wreath or circular arch can add that extra wow factor as well as doubling up as a totally Instagram-worthy photo op.

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Transparent details Acrylic was big news in 2017 and in 2018 we’ll be seeing more and more transparent details including clear perspex chairs, vellum invitations, floating floral arrangements and of course, clear and glass marquees (another trend in itself thanks to Pippa Middleton).

Neon lights Neon light signs are this year’s illuminated letters – they’re insanely cool and instantly add a touch of personality, individuality, humour and of course love to any wedding space. Don’t get me wrong, I still love the ever-popular illuminated letter however, they’ve been seen at weddings since 2012 and more and more couples are now looking for something slightly different and unseen. Neon light signs are also a HUGE interior trend so expect big things in the world of weddings.

Suspended flowers and foliage Hanging and suspended décor is one of the most visually impactful ways to create that extra magical WOW factor. Lighting is a key way to achieving this but in 2018, suspended floral and foliage, especially in marquee ceilings and above tablescapes will take centre stage.

Texture I touched upon texture in 2017 in the form of silk and cotton table runners and in 2018 couples will continue to embrace textures and layering, especially when it comes to tablescapes. More and more linens and fabrics are available to hire or buy meaning that we can now fully embrace and replicate tablescape designs that were only previously achievable oversees, especially in the US.

Image credits: Wedding Photographer: Rebecca Goddard Photography Wedding Planner: Katrina Otter Weddings Florist: Jay Archer Floral Design Chairs: Wedhead Table plan: Oh Wonder Calligraphy

Weekend weddings I’ve written about weekend weddings recently and I’m mentioning them again because this is one wedding trend that I just can’t get enough of! When your wedding is such a special occasion, and such a great opportunity to get your friends and family together, why not extend the celebrations? More and more couples are choosing to do just that and as a wedding planner, I love organising fabulous occasions that share the love over an entire weekend. The great news is that in recent years we’ve also seen and will continue to see an increase in the number of venues (especially towards the Suffolk and Norfolk coast) that can accommodate (and encourage) this trend. Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based wedding planner and event organiser with over 10 years experience. Find out how she could help you plan your wedding day at www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk

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Spring/Summer Occasion Wear at

Outfit by Luis Civit

www.marthav.co.uk

Telephone 01638 666320 | Aberdeen House | 9-11 High Street | Newmarket | Suffolk

O VA D A

Dry Cleaners, Alterations and Repairs Dry cleaning and clothing repairs to the highest standards Delivery and collection service available Appointment service for alterations if required Many years experience in providing a first class service

Award Winning Cake Specialist Mention Eastlife for 10% discount

43 Broadway â&#x20AC;˘ Peterborough â&#x20AC;˘ PE1 1SQ Tel: 01733 566777 Guild of cleaners & launderers

Tel: 01621 843323

www.lottieandjakes.com emma@lottieandjakes.com Kings Head Centre, 38 High St, Maldon, CM9 5PN

Your Clothes Are Worth It

Arrange a consultation at our Maldon Shop

Dress to impress A

s the save the dates roll in for another summer of weddings, thoughts begin to turn to what to wear. From tailoring and two pieces to formal gowns, the choice can often be overwhelming. To help you stand out from the crowd at the next wedding you attend, swap high street stores for one of the region’s occasion wear boutiques. Dress Code Nine Unit 21, Allshots Enterprises, Woodhouse Lane, Kelvedon CO5 9DF | Tel: 01376 587949 Located in the heart of Essex, in Kelvedon, Dress Code Nine specialise in formal wear for all occasions and feature designers such as Kiss Me Kate Designs, Jora Collections and Eliza & Ethan – to name a few! A personal service is top priority and there are over 200 dresses to browse, plus a newly opened prom department for younger guests. dresscodenine.co.uk Photos by Dress Code Nine

Dusk till Dawn 1st Floor Dagnall House, Stanley Court, Olney, MK46 5NH | Tel: 01234 712200 Providing a one to one service, the boutique stocks a huge range of evening, occasion and prom wear. You may even be lucky enough to pick up a one-off designer piece! www.dusktdawn.co.uk

Cream Rose 7 High Street, Fenstanton, Cambs PE28 9LQ | Tel: 01480 461187 No matter your style you’re bound to find something at Cream Rose. Offering dresses for all occasions, visitors can take advantage of co-owner Luanne’s stylist expertise. The Style Room; a spacious private room, is great for mothers of the bride looking to make the most of the shopping occasion. www.cream-rose.co.uk

Martha V 9-11 High Street, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 8LX | Tel: 01638 666320 This beautiful store stocks a wide range of well-known fashion brands and regularly features up and coming designers. Staff are helpful and knowledgeable and will be able to assist you in finding the perfect outfit and accessories for your special occasion. www.marthav.co.uk

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Bridal Carriages of Northamptonshire John & Amanda Sarrington invite you to visit them in Thrapston in order to view their fantastic 10 car fleet of Rolls Royce, Jaguar and Daimler wedding cars which could whisk you off on your way of dreams. An appointment is necessary to allow them to give you their best attention. Free colour brochure available on request. Covering Northamptonshire, Stamford, Peterborough, Huntingdon & Surrounding towns & villages.

For further information or to arrange a viewing kindly call John or Amanda Sarrington on 01832 735162 or 0778 777 0971

Come and visit our showroom in Thrapston www.bridalcarriages.co.uk

Memories are made of this â&#x20AC;Ś Unexpected. Understated. Unique. Unpretentious. Just some of the words our delighted couples have used when describing their South Farm wedding. From your very first visit to the end of your special day, we take pride in guiding you through the perfect wedding; unobtrusively efficient, always approachable, and entirely focused on making your dream a reality.

South Farm: Distinctly Different weddings Shingay-cum-Wendy Royston Cambridgeshire SG8 OHR 01223 207581

info@south-farm.co.uk www.south-farm.co.uk

Five tips for a stress free wedding O

rganising a wedding will likely be one of the biggest and costliest things you do in your lifetime. You want everything to be perfect, and with so many details to consider, things can often get a little hectic. However, beyond the confusion and confetti, budget and bridesmaids, there are a few simple steps which will make all come together smoothly. Read our top five tips for planning your big day without a hitch: Don’t skimp on photography Though we’ve advised you not to go overboard with spending, photography is not a place to pinch the pennies. A good wedding photographer is worth their weight in gold. Not only will you have beautiful, perfectly edited images to look back at but most photographers are great with understanding timings on the day itself and lending a helping hand.

Budget Know your limits. It’s easy to get carried away with wedding planning. You may want the perfect day, but you will also want a perfect life that’s not plagued by debt when the day is a distant memory.

Hire a planner

Picking your party It can be tricky choosing a maid of honour and bridesmaids, but as much as you want all those closest to you to be part of your big day, don’t feel obliged to please everyone. A huge wedding party can quickly rack up extra and unnecessary costs, and make some arrangements difficult. Ultimately, choose those you cherish and who will be able to help with planning and the organisation on the day itself.

If the planning becomes too much, consider hiring a wedding planner. Their job is to help you create the perfect day so don’t panic about handing over some control. A wedding planner might not be as costly as you think, but if budget won’t allow discuss hiring a planner just for certain things you’re finding challenging or organisation of the day itself. It’s worth asking your venue if they have an in-house planner too!

Avoid DIY Crafty ideas make look easy on Pinterest but think about the added pressure it may cause in the lead up to the wedding. Do you really want to be surrounded by glitter and glue a few nights before your wedding? Will you remember those tiny favours you spent hours making in the years to come? Choose décor that’s right for you!

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Happily ever after starts here

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.

At The Old Nene we build our wedding package around each of our bride and groom’s requirements, so not only does this make your day unique, but it allows you to get the most from your budget, to really give that wow factor on your special day.

Guests

We have 3 function rooms and couples can choose to have any combination of our rooms during their day.

We use in-house caterers which allows you to choose exactly what you require for you and your guests.

And why not make use of our beautiful veranda and private balcony with views over our lake and manicured golf course. It’s the perfect setting for your photographer to catch those special moments with your loved ones.

We can seat up to 86 day guests Up to 120 total guests for the evening. Up to 3 bars available on request

Catering

Accommodation 7 one and two bedroom lodges available on request. Weekend and weekday wedding dates available

Muchwood Lane, Bodsey, Ramsey, PE26 2XQ

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

Telephone: 01487 815622 www.theoldnene.co.uk Email: enquiries@theoldnene.co.uk

2018 01 East Life Weddings QP.qxp_107mm h x 71mm w 15

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Wedding Fayre Thursday 15th February 2018 SAVE THE DATE

A Unique Venue Set amongst 120 acres of Suffolk Countryside close the Suffolk Coast, we pride ourselves in offering a unique venue which gives exclusive use to you and your guests. PERFECT FOR WEDDINGS | CIVIL CEREMONIES STAG & HEN EVENTS | LODGE ACCOMMODATION Feel free to visit the website for more information, alternatively pop down to see us. We’re located just off the A12 near Blythburgh, not far from Southwold, Suffolk IP17 3QT.

The wedding of a lifetime,

remembered forever

Ufford Park Woodbridge

Afternoon Tea wedding packages from £1,299* With spectacular views over 120 acres of historic parkland, and warm, friendly service, we are perfect for intimate or larger weddings. Let us share our wealth of knowledge and passion for weddings with you, making sure your dream day runs smoothly from your initial enquiry, through to the big day. Located just off the A12 and offering 90 en-suite bedrooms, we are perfect for those family members travelling from afar. *Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply

01986 784347 | www.highlodge.co.uk | info@highlodge.co.uk High Lodge Leisure Ltd

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High_Lodge_Leisure_Ltd

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

TheAnchor AnchorInn Inn The

Your Perfect Perfect Your Wedding Day... Day... The Anchor Inn Wedding T

his unique wedding venue is based in the rural heart of Cambridgeshire only 7 miles away from the beautiful city of Ely and is an original, idyllic 17th century Inn.

The newly landscaped gardens offer a perfect setting for your reception to be held in the marquee which will give you that unique atmosphere for you and your guests. We can cater for up to 150 people in the marquee. If you prefer, you also have the choice of enjoying your reception in the restaurant itself for that more intimate feel. We can cater up to 40 people in the restaurant.

Your Perfect Wedding Day... The Anchor Inn has evolved over the last 350 years and now offers every modern facility, but with a timeless charm and character that you will still experience a feeling of true antiquity. We are surrounded by beauty here at The Inn with stunning views over the New Bedford River and the Ouse Washes. We pride ourselves on the quality and flavours of our food as well as the service we offer. Your wedding day is the most important day of your life and we treasure it with you. We will make sure that you and your guests are well looked after from the minute they arrive.

What’s included in your day... • Exclusive use of The Anchor Inn if choosing the restaurant for your reception • The marquee and gardens if choosing the marquee for your reception • All glasses, tables, chairs and linen • The Riverside Suite (for one day) • Half a bottle of champagne • Wedding coordinator to help your day run smoothly • Car parking • 16-inch wedding cake stand and wedding cake knife • Staff for the entire day • Your chosen package • Recommendations of local suppliers, including florists, photographers, entertainers and cake makers

Bury Lane, Sutton Gault, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB6 2BD Tel: 01353 778537 weddings@anchor-inn-restaurant.co.uk www.anchor-inn-restaurant.co.uk @the_anchor_inn

/anchorsuttongault.co.uk

10 quirky wedding venues 1

HALES HALL

EVENTS UNDER CANVAS

HOTEL FELIX

Written by Amanda French www.anoseforfood.com

unting for the perfect wedding venue in the area? We’re here to help, with a run down of our favourite wedding venues in the region, covering everything from the historic and unusual to outside or simple. Hales Hall ® SimonBuck

If you are looking for a romantic setting for your wedding, you can’t go wrong with Hales Hall. This beautiful Grade I listed Tudor Country House is set in a stunning estate. Now, for the first time ever the whole estate, Hales Hall, the cottages, and the Great Barn are available to hire - offering guests the ultimate flexible retreat. The perfect venue for a couple looking to celebrate in style. www.haleshall.com

Looking for something a little different on your big day? Then check out the range of beautiful tipis and sailcloth tents available to hire for weddings. These can be erected in a variety of settings around the area, from a pub garden to the grounds of a stately home and can be easily personalised. www.eventsundercanvas.co.uk

This boutique Victorian hotel in Cambridge is the perfect spot for celebrating your wedding. In the summer months enjoy the reception in the light and airy Orangery and then spill out onto the terrace and gardens below to enjoy the most of the sunshine. www.hotelfelix.co.uk

CLEY WINDMILL

Enjoy your special day in a traditional windmill. With the ceremony taking place in the round sitting room, which holds up to 22 people, this venue is perfect for those wanting a smaller wedding or a smaller ceremony, followed by a larger reception elsewhere. You can also take over the entire windmill with rooms to accommodate 16. Throw in the self catering cottage and the whole party can reach 20 people. www.cleywindmill.co.uk/weddings

T IN THE WOODS

This lovely vintage style tearoom in Bricket Wood, St Albans is a cute, small venue for the couple looking to celebrate in a more intimate style. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea to celebrate your wedding or just serve up plenty of tea and cake all on retro style cake stands.

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Events Under Canvas

CHILTERN OPEN AIR MUSEUM

Home to over 30 restored historic buildings including an Iron Age roundhouse, Medieval barns, a working Victorian farm, a recreated 1940s prefab, this is certainly a wedding venue with a difference. Take your pick from one of the historic buildings, based on your preferences and requirements or set up your own marquee. Either way, this venue will certainly be a memorable one. www.coam.org.uk

GREENACRES WOODLAND WEDDINGS

Enjoy your wedding amid 16 acres of woodland at this beautiful venue in Colney, just outside of Norwich. Enjoy fantastic woodland views from the Woodland Hall as you get married, through its floor to ceiling windows and celebrate under the trees with family and friends. (www.greenacreswoodlandweddings.co.uk/colney/)

MARSTON VALE FOREST CENTRE

With its mix of woodland, lakes and beautiful countryside, the Forest Centre, set in the Millenium Country Park is the perfect place to celebrate your wedding, if you are a nature lover. As an added bonus, holding your special day at the Forest Centre helps fund the creation of new woodlands across the Forest of Marston Vale and as a special gift, they dedicate a tree to every couple who celebrate their wedding there. www.marstonvale.org/weddings

THE MISSING SOCK

Looking for a relaxed venue for your wedding? Try The Missing Sock in Cambridge, a location which includes a Karaoke Double Decker Bus and Sundowner Lounge. Perhaps one of the quirkiest venues outside of London, the area is completely customisable and includes a memorable outdoor party space including a secret garden, firepit and BBQ. www.themissingsock.co.uk

COLCHESTER CASTLE

Colchester Castle was nominated as a finalist for the Essex Wedding Award and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clear to see why. This beautiful historic venue sees couples taking over the castle for the day, using their chapel for the service and then holding their reception in the Charles Grey Room. Built when Colchester became the first Roman capital of Britain, this location holds over 2000 years worth of history. A memorable and historic venue for your special occasion. www.colchester-events.co.uk/weddings/our-venues/ castle

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The

PerfectVenue for your magical day

A choice of venues Available midweek, Saturday and Sunday Licensed venues for civil ceremonies Private restaurants, lounge and bar Friendly staff dedicated to making your day special Child friendly with enclosed courtyard garden Accommodation, spa, golf and leisure facilities for guests

For a brochure, to check availability, or to arrange a visit: 0333 7007 667 www.thewaterfronthotel.co.uk weddings@wybostonlakes.co.uk /WybostonLakes @WybostonLakes wyboston_lakes Wyboston Lakes Resort, Great North Road,Wyboston, Bedfordshire, MK44 3AL

New wedding packages available from £59 per person

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Diary dates

Lightdraw Photography | The Woburn Estate

lanning a 2018 wedding or getting ahead of the game for 2019? Get started here with our top wedding fayres and events in your local area...

80 stands, goody bags for the first 250 brides, a complimentary glass of bubbly for all visitors, fashion shows, a complimentary wedding directory and a free prize. Tickets cost £4. Open 10.30am-3pm.

The Cambridge Wedding Fair, 4 February Anstey Hall Courtyard, Maris Lane, Cambridge, CB2 9LN

Hylands House Chelmsford Wedding Show, 18 February & 22 April Hylands House, London Road, Writtle, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 8WQ

Browse up to 30 wedding local suppliers and enjoy a fashion show at 12.30pm and 2.30pm, showcasing the latest trends in bridal wear. Open from 11am - 3.30pm.

The Wedding Fayre at Trinity Park, 11 February Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, Suffolk

With over 90 exhibitors you can be sure of seeing a range of good quality suppliers who will help plan your special day. Free entry. Open 11am-3pm. www.hylandsestateweddings.co.uk

Wedding Fair, 22 February Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, MK43 0PS

A popular fayre with up to 60 suppliers and fashion shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm. There will be live music and bridal tours throughout the day. The first 20 brides-to-be will receive a free bottle of Buck’s Fizz! Entry £1.50. Open 11am - 3:30pm.

Enjoy a glass of bubbly with the wedding team while you discover the Forest Centre and all it has to offer for your special day. There’ll be the opportunity to see rooms dressed for your ceremony and wedding breakfast, and to meet local suppliers, and there’s a goodie bag for couples who pre-register. Open 6.30pm – 9pm. marstonvale.org

Woburn Wedding Fair, 18 February Sculpture Gallery, Woburn Abbey and Gardens, Woburn, MK17 9WA

The Norwich Wedding Show, 4 March

An opportunity to view the venue, meet with the team and discuss ideas with local suppliers including flowers, cakes, cars, photography and more. Open 10.30am – 3.30pm. Free admission and parking. www.woburnweddings.co.uk

East of England Valentine’s Wedding Show, 18 February East of England Showground, Oundle Road, Alwalton, Peterborough PE2 6XE

Holiday Inn Norwich, Ipswich Road, Norwich NR4 6EP A chance to view the venue, meet regional suppliers and enjoy entertainment from a live band. Free entry. Open 10:30am 2.30pm.

Wedding Spectacular at Knebworth Barns, 18 March Knebworth House, Stevenage, Knebworth, Hertfordshire SG1 2AX A chance to view the historic venue and browse up to 50 local suppliers. Fashion Shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Free entry. Open 11am-4pm. www.youreventatknebworth.com

Now in its 14th year the popular event features over

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The perfect venue for an elegant wedding in the Suffolk countryside. Our team of expert wedding planners

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Consumer

Martin Lewis Talks...

How to manage credit card debt

etterboxes become dangerous at this time of year, and not just due to trapped fingers. Mail takes on a demonic hue for many awaiting credit card statements with Christmas’ spending on to land on the doormat. So if your plastic has a festive hangover, don’t ignore it, it’s time to sort it. There are three key rules to sorting your existing debts: 1. Stop borrowing more. 2. Cut the interest rate. This means your repayments clear the actual debt rather than just profit the lender. 3. If you’ve more than one debt, prioritise repaying the one with the highest interest rate first – as it’s growing fastest – and just pay the minimums on everything else. The key weapon to cut interest is a balance transfer This is where you get a new card(s) that repays debts on existing credit or store cards for you, so you shift the debt and owe it, but at no interest cost. And there’s another ‘rule of three’ here to get the right card. 1. Don’t apply willy-nilly, first see what you’ll be accepted for. When you apply for a credit card they do a credit check. Yet banks are the type of organisation that’d lend you an umbrella when the sun shines and ask for it back when it rains. So those in most need of cutting their existing debt costs tend to be those who struggle most to be accepted. Worse still just applying for a card marks your credit file, which has a marginally negative impact, so if you’re rejected being accepted elsewhere gets slightly tougher. To help, use an eligibility calculator, like mine at www.moneysavingexpert.com/BTeligibility.

These let you home in on the right cards, by showing which of the top deals you’re most likely to be accepted for – and they don’t impact your future creditworthiness. 2. Go for the card with the lowest fee in the time you need. Most balance transfer cards charge a one-off fee on the amount of debt transferred up to 3% (so £30 per £1,000 shifted). In general the longer the 0% period the higher the fee, so you should aim for the card with the lowest fee but ensuring the 0% period is long enough. So calculate how long you think you’ll take to clear the debt, add a bit for safety, then pick the lowest fee within that time. If you’re not sure play long and go safe. The longest current 0% card is www.barclaycard.co.uk at ‘up to’ 38 months 0% with a 1.4% fee (19.9% rep APR after). The longest fee-free card is www.halifax.co.uk at ‘up to’ 29 months 0% (19.9% rep APR after). Full best buys at www.mse.me/balancetransfers. 3. Watch for ‘up to’ cards. As you’ll note those best buys are ‘up to’ cards. They tend not to say this overtly but you will spot it in the small print. This means, depending on credit score, some who are accepted will get a shorter 0%. Frustratingly there is no way to know this beforehand. However, in general if you do an eligibility check and the only cards showing up that you have a decent chance are ‘up to’s’ then you’re likely to get a shorter 0% with all of them. The longest non-up to 0% card is www.sainsburysbank.co.uk at 36 months 0% with a 2.89% fee – so if accepted that’s what you get and it also offers a non-up to fee-free option for 28 months 0% (both are 18.9% rep APR after). If you’ve a decent chance of getting those, then they may be worth plumping for. Struggling to sleep due to your debts? Get free, one-on-one debt-counselling help from www.CitizensAdvice.org, www.capuk.org, www.StepChange.org or www.NationalDebtline.co.uk. They are there to help, not judge. The most common thing I hear after is: “I finally got a good night’s sleep”. Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySavingExpert.com. To join the 12 million people who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip.

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Bruisyard Hall THE ULTIMATE SUFFOLK COUNTRY SIDE WEDDING VENUE

Enjoy the perfect celebration with exclusive use Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re planning a small wedding of your nearest and dearest, an intimate vow renewal ceremony or a big wedding with all the bells and whistles, we have everything you need for a beautiful countryside wedding in Suffolk. With a choice of places to marry, dine and dance, we have a beautiful and unique wedding venue supported by a family-led team keen to ensure every aspect of your wedding day is perfect.

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Motoring

FORD

Kuga

FACTS AT A G L A N C E

MODEL: Ford Kuga PRICE: £28,745 otr ENGINE: 2 litre TDCi 6 speed manual front wheel drive PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 10.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 121 mph

Written by Sue Cooke - Twitter @cookecars

s I bounce out of yet another unavoidable pothole which seem to litter our streets at this time of year, I think that the next car I buy will be a sport utility vehicle (SUV). I know in East Anglia we don’t have the steep inclines and Everest type hills to climb which other regions are cursed with but apart from off roading, there are many other reasons to buy Ford’s best in class Kuga. Ask a man why they would choose a four-wheel drive and they would say poor road conditions, but ask a woman and they would say they prefer the ruggedness and greater feeling of safety in general, according to the findings of online motor retail specialist BuyaCar.co.uk. I would add to the list, my liking of the commanding view of the road ahead. So, this time of year, with the problems of mud, flooding and potholes, I am considering buying an SUV with the new March plates. SUV sales are rising faster than any other type of vehicle which have shed their gas guzzling reputation. And true to its reputation as an innovator, Ford says it is introducing an all-new fully electric SUV, engineered to deliver an estimated range of at least 300 miles – enough to drive from London to Paris – by 2020. Sales of Ford’s Kuga have risen by 320 per cent in three years and this SUV offers advanced engines like the new 120PS 1.5-litre TDCi diesel that meets the latest Euro Stage 6 emissions requirements and delivers 115g/km CO2. My road test car was powered by the latest 2 litre diesel engine with 150 PS.

CO2 EMISSIONS: 122g/km COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 60.1MPG

The Kuga is packed with technology such as the new SYNC 3 communication and entertainment system. Push a button and say “I need a coffee,” and the technology will direct you to the nearest coffee shop. A coffee cup alert will also present itself on the screen ahead when sensors detect that the driver’s eyelids are closing more frequently than is desirable! Ford has also introduced new lighting to the Kuga which improves visibility at roundabouts, and at stop and give way or yield signs, and draws the driver’s attention to pedestrians, cyclists and even large animals in the vehicle’s path or even just off the road. Amazing! What I could have done with in the New Year sales was the hands free opening tailgate. Returning to the car, loaded up with kids and shopping and requiring access to the boot, I just make a kicking motion underneath the rear bumper and open sesame! There is now more intuitive technology inside the new Kuga with hands-free parking for side by side spaces. Cross traffic alert warns drivers who are reversing out of a parking space of vehicles that a car may be about to cross behind them. The steering wheel is offered in heated leather to improve comfort in cold weather. I will miss warm fingers when the Ford Kuga goes back. Car manufacturers are responding to what we as consumers ask for in our new cars and currently my big ask is for a car like the Ford Kuga that will smoothly and competently pave the way over the numerous potholes!

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Home & Garden

Home Improvements Image: www.apollo-blinds.co.uk

Could a conservatory add value to your home? Thirty years ago, a conservatory was considered an extra room plonked onto the back of the house, scorching in summer and an igloo in winter but how times have changed…As with the rest of the home, the conservatory concept has evolved to make a style statement of its own. Now purpose built and a year round living space, a conservatory can add significant value to the home if designed well.

“There’s nothing quite like opening up your home to the outdoors – especially in summer! Replacing existing French or patio doors with slimline sliding or bi-folding doors is relatively easy and can make such a difference to the perceived light and space in a room. A living space that leads to the outdoors will create a sense of flexibility and offers a wide range of options for entertaining.

Extending your living space is always a good idea, and providing that it’s in keeping with the style of your house, a conservatory or orangery extension is a sure-fire way to improve your home – and add value suggests Steve Bromberg, general manager at Express Bi-folding Doors. He adds: “From a dining room to a sun room, the possibilities are endless for potential new homeowners. Adding another room in the form of a conservatory or orangery can add up to 10 per cent on the value of your property, so not only will it create a fantastic living space, it’s a solid investment.” Depending on your style and the use of the space, conservatories can incorporate a choice of glazing fixtures, including roof lanterns, a fully glazed roof, framed with bi-folding or sliding doors. Changing doors is a great way to update an existing model.

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We are passionate about wood and since our launch ten years ago, our suite of products has lead the market in their breadth of application, uniqueness of design, quality of construction and performance in use. The installation of well-made, well-specified timber windows and doors can really enhance the beauty and value of your home and we look forward to working with you on your exciting project!

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www.timberwindows.com 11a Market Place, Olney, MK46 4EA, 01234 930080 36 Beech Road St Albans, AL3 5AS, 01727 809944

Duette blinds www.duette.co.uk

“Aluminium bi-folding doors are a strong choice to replace existing conservatory doors, or as part of a new conservatory extension. They’re renowned for their durability and functionality and even small or simple conservatories can benefit from bi-folding doors, completely transforming their appeal and increasing light and perceived space,” suggests Steve. With advances in glass technology such as better insulation and solar control, and underfloor heating, the conservatory can be used year round. This has ultimately influenced how home-owners use the space leading to emerging interior trends for the conservatory. Macramé plant hangers and lush ferns combined with geometric tiles and rattan furniture create a calming natural space ideal for an office, while white and grey tones mixed with different textures are great for a making a space for relaxation.

wooden tables and stools/chairs. Dress windows, doors and roof with made-to-measure Duette® blinds in Elephant Batiste, while linen-look window blinds are perfect to accompany earthen colours and textures.” A conservatory can significantly improve the home, be it a new model or updating doors, windows or interiors, make sure you make the most out of this valuable space.

Batiste Elephant Duette® blinds by Apollo Blinds, prices start at £158

The addition of blinds can transform a cold conservatory into a comfortable climatecontrolled year-round space too. If it’s a multi-functional room, it’s important to select the correct blinds for the space. Head of design at Apollo Blinds, Mike Stephen says: “The industrial trend is still a huge influence in interiors and perfect for conservatories featuring exposed brick walls, steel window frames and slate floors. Continue the theme with reclaimed

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Venetian Blinds

Suffolk Blinds Company, Stowmarket Road, Rattlesden, Suffolk IP30 0RR Tel: 01449 736 909 | Mob: 07979 550 204 www.suffolkblinds.com

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SUFFOLK SUFFOLK HOT TUBS HOT TUBS

Deckworld half page Jan-Feb. 2017.qxp_Layout 1 13/12/2016 10:38 Page 1 Deckworld half page Jan-Feb. 2017.qxp_Layout 1 13/12/2016 10:38 Page 1

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L I V

The Say hello to Wendy Howes, our gardening columnist, who will be revealing the trials and tribulations of her garden restoration project every month…

Hidcote Lavender

e are making such incredible progress with the restoration and remodeling of Percy Kane’s secret seaside garden. As I walk the garden marveling at all the fresh new shoots adorning shrubs we planted in the autumn, I am often staggered by how much we have done in a relatively short amount of time. With a bigger budget and more pairs of hands I am sure we would have achieved much more, yet the journey would have been far less rewarding. Clematis armandii Apple Blossom

Our next project for the garden is to plant out a small orchard. This will serve two purposes; firstly, it will soften up an oddly irregular corner of the garden, but more importantly it will be the first functional part of the garden, beyond the not quite so exciting composting area! As well as apples, pears, cherries and plums, I was also keen to introduce a walnut tree. They are such a delicious nut and a nutritional powerhouse, however at 30 metres high and with a 10 year wait until the first crop, I am struggling to justify a place for one in our mini orchard. However, I have not given up all hope of one just yet.

Read more on Wendy’s blog at www.wendyswholeworld.com By the time you read this we will have planted 64 Hidcote lavenders (Lavendula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’) and a few dozen hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and Pyracantha coccinea ‘Red Column’ bare root hedging plants. The lavenders are the finishing touch to four of the rose squares which are now home to specimen trees. The hawthorn and pyracantha are filling a few gaps in a very old boundary hedge.

Pyracantha Red Column

I also reached a final decision on a clematis to adorn the old apple tree; a Clematis armandii ‘Apple Blossom’ now nestles at the base ready to weave its way up and around the trunk and into the old branches once the days start to warm. Given the sunny position this old tree sits in, the warmth of the sun should bring the heady ‘Apple Blossom’ scent to life at the end of a long summer’s day. And being semi-evergreen it will offer a little interest to the tree during the winter months.

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Bellway at QEII Ascots Lane, Welwyn Garden City AL7 4HQ

Get a great deal more at QEII

on D S al uty tam la P p pa a rt id ** m en ts

With Help to Buy* and your Stamp Duty Paid** there’s never been a more perfect time to buy.

We are delighted to present Duchess Court, a collection of 2-bedroom apartments, situated within the popular Bellway at QEII development. All homes feature contemporary fitted Symphony kitchens, spacious open-plan living areas and come with allocated parking. 2-bedroom apartments priced from £289,995

Help to Buy ...how it works* Based on a purchase price of £289,995 You pay a 5% deposit of £14,500 20% interest free equity loan of £57,999 is provided by the Government

Typical interior

You only need to secure a 75% mortgage of £217,496

To register your interest, visit www.bellway.co.uk or call 0333 577 5909 Computer generated image and interior image is indicative only and may include optional upgrades, specification on site may differ. Price correct at time of going to press. *Help to Buy England YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. Help to Buy is subject to the Homes and Communities Agency’s (HCA) terms and conditions and is available on new build homes up to £600,000 to customers where the property represents their only residence. Not available on second, additional homes, buy-to-let or let-to-buy properties. HomeBuy agent eligibility check required. The equity loan is interest free for the first five years and needs to be a minimum of 10% of the purchase price up to a maximum of 20%. After five years, an annual fee of 1.75% of the outstanding equity loan is charged. This is increased annually by RPI plus 1%. The equity loan must be repaid after 25 years, or earlier if you sell your home. A monthly management fee of £1 is payable by the equity loan borrower by direct debit, from the start of the loan until it is repaid. The management fee and interest fees are not capital repayments to the equity loan and do not reduce the amount owing. Help to Buy operates under terms and conditions imposed by the HCA and may be subject to change. Please visit www.helptobuy.gov.uk for further information. **Stamp Duty Paid available on selected plots and not available on second or additional homes, buy-to-let or let-to buy properties.

Now is a great time to buy your first home Making that first step onto the property ladder is about more than just making a financial investment, it is about realising a lifelong dream and having a space to call your own. According to a recent Home Buyers Survey by Tesco supermarket the three primary reasons many people move and purchase a home are to provide security for family, assure their future and become more independent. While investing in bricks and mortar for the sake of owning an asset is secondary, having a dream home with plenty of space to put down one’s roots, is a higher priority for many home hunters. The recent relief in stamp duty means that homes under £300,000 are now exempt from stamp duty fees, with many first time buyers set to make big savings. Pair that with the government funded scheme Help To Buy, which is still available on select new build properties and continually-low interest rates, and savvy buyers are quickly realising that now is a great time to buy a home. Bellway at QEII is an established development of new homes in Welwyn Garden City, located just five minutes’ drive from the town centre. Offering a range of styles and sizes, the properties are designed to appeal to a variety of audiences, including families, first-time buyers and professionals. The new homes benefit from a quality specification, providing contemporary open-plan living spaces, en-suite bathrooms and integrated kitchen appliances. A range of two bedroom apartments is currently available, offering excellent value for money, with some of the properties priced under the new stamp duty threshold.

The homes are set amongst landscaped gardens and open spaces, which echo the rural ambience of the surrounding woodland. All apartments include allocated parking, while houses have garages, or parking, and private gardens. Situated around 20 minutes from London by train, Bellway at QEII is ideal for professionals commuting to the capital. Residents have the choice of two railway stations close by. Hatfield or Welwyn Garden City both offer frequent services to Potters Bar, Finsbury Park, Old Street, Moorgate and London Kings Cross. Major roads nearby include the A1, for travel to London and the north, and the A414, for Hertford, Harlow and Chelmsford to the east, and St Albans and Hemel Hempstead to the west. Journey times to central London are around 50 minutes via the A1. A number of well-regarded schools in the local area cater for primary and secondary-age pupils. Commonswood Primary and Nursery School is a 10-minute walk from these new homes in Welwyn Garden City, while Creswick Primary and Nursery School is less than 20 minutes’ walk away and Stanborough School can be reached in around five minutes by car. Homes are priced from £289,995. Bellway is offering to pay any stamp duty costs for first time buyers who purchase a property priced between £300k - £500k. For further information please call 0333 577 9936 or email queII@bellway.co.uk eastlife.co.uk

3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes n Make better memories at our Sanderson Manor development, which is located on the banks of the river Cam, and surrounded by miles of open Cambridgeshire countryside. Talk to our friendly sales team about the offers available on selected plots. #bettermemories Images typical of Redrow homes. Details correct at time of going to print.

3, 4 & 5 bedroom show homes available to view Sanderson Manor

Church Road, Hauxton, Cambridgeshire CB22 5HS Show homes open daily, 10am - 5.30pm Call: 01223 665258 Visit: redrow.co.uk/sanderson

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Arts

The Arts Column Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right. www.nortonwaygallery.com

As the New Year all too quickly establishes herself, we find that we are already turning the calendar pages. In what can be one the greyest of months, I often find comfort in the traditional and highly skilled. With this in mind I recommend a trip to Essex’s Great Dunmow, to seek shelter and inspiration at the wonderful Aubrey Gallery. Founded in 2009 the gallery has dedicated itself to original works of art and especially in championing one of the oldest, truly creative, artistic processes; printmaking. “Throughout history mankind has demonstrated an irresistible urge to engage with ‘art’. From Stone Age

Among the many examples, linocut is beautifully represented by artists including, Robert Gilmore and Andrew Haslen. Robert is famous for his bold and seemingly simplistic depictions of waterfowl. However, in an edition of 45 harmonious prints, each piece has been individually created from a lino slab that he has cutaway with shapes and lines. Andrew also devotes his work to the rural life. Animals, people and machinery are portrayed with an extraordinary depth of intricacy and colour that is immediately recognisable as Andrew’s trademark. Starting each piece of art with a linocut of dark line, he then individually paints, with watercolour, the rest of his vision. The specific printing method the artist adopts will have its special characteristics and is usually chosen for this reason. Due to the, sometimes, unpredictable outcomes, printmakers often describe the process as being managed rather than controlled. Although there has to be a strong forethought of how the finished pieces should turn out, the nature of the different processes ensures that serendipity will have her say! Hence when you spy a beautiful and somehow mysterious drypiont, etching, linocut or wood engraving, you will see that it possesses a very unique quality. The Aubrey Gallery celebrates this uniqueness with deserved pride. Visit their website for further information and for details of their opening hours.

The Aubrey Art Gallery, Post Office Yard, High Street, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1AW Tel: 01371 873133 | www.aubreyartgallery.com

Pie-Wipes by Robert Gilmore

engravings to Neolithic stenciling, to early 1st millennium B.C. Japanese screen printing, right up to 21st century digital printing, the various forms of printmaking reflect an insatiable appetite for creativity,” says Liz at the Aubrey Gallery. With no less than 10 artists specialising in this tempestuous practice, the gallery is an absolute must for those who appreciate the art of linocut, wood engraving, etching and the many more methods employed by this highly complex discipline. In addition, it is also a superb place to begin to gain or enhance your understanding of this immense area in art and its difference to that of the reproduction print.

Winter Hare and Fieldfares by Andrew Haslen

eastlife.co.uk

February Half-Term

DEAR ZOO

Tues 13 and Weds 14 February - Tues: 1.30pm & 4.00pm Weds: 10.30am & 1.30pm The timeless children’s classic book makes its stage premiere!

Easter Break

The Wind in the Willows Fri 30 – Sat 31 March 2.00pm & 6.00pm Join us for an exciting adventure along the riverbank with a brand new staging of Kenneth Grahame’s family classic!

Civic Theatre, Chelmsford Fairfield Road, CM1 1JG

Box Office: 01245 606505

chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres

Arts News for February Studies for a painting An exhibition of Life Drawings by Craig Wylie at The Fairhurst Gallery, Exhibition dates: 1-17 February 2018 (Private view: 1 Feb ) The Fairhurst Gallery has announced its first exhibition of life drawings by the award-winning artist Craig Wylie from 1-17 February. These intimate sketches offer a rare glimpse into the studio practice of this master painter and the process involved in developing initial sketches into his highly acclaimed oil paintings. In the past, Wylie has used photography as a starting point for his large-scale portraits, however, his recent work has seen a return to his passion for working from life. Particularly relevant with the Royal Academy’s current exhibition “From Life”, drawing from life models was long considered essential training for any aspiring artist. The exhibition at the Fairhurst Gallery will take a contemporary look at the importance of life drawing as a preparatory pursuit. The gallery will also host an exclusive Life Drawing Workshop in the gallery with Craig Wylie on Thursday 15 February, 6-8pm. Booking is essential. For more information visit www.fairhurstgallery.co.uk Study 3 by Craig Wylie at Fairhurst Gallery

Cambridge Glass Fair, 25 February at Knebworth House This month sees the Cambridge Glass Fair return to Knebworth House for the sixth time. Taking place on 25 February in the Knebworth House Barns complex, the event will feature around 70 exhibitors. The fair showcases all types and ages of antique and contemporary glass and includes a number of contemporary glass artists showing their own work. Glass is a fascinating medium lending itself to an extremely broad range of applications and effects and this has been exploited over thousands of years by the artisans who have chosen to work with this material and discover its possibilities. There will also be a glassblowing demonstration by E+M Glass, which is one not to miss! Exhibitors will be on hand and happy to talk to visitors about their wares and answer any questions they might have throughout the event. The fair is open from 10.30am until 4pm, admission £5. www.cambridgeglassfair.com

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Cambridge’s favourite festival is back!

A festival of events proudly supporting local charities

RAISING FUNDS IN SUPPORT OF

Arthur Rank Hospice Charity

making every moment count

All events hosted at:

“The Home of The Cambridge Roar”

www.thecambridgeroar.co.uk

Cambridgeshire

Cambridge The

Written by Tracey Dean (www.traceydean.co.uk)

Scene

an’t take the cold any longer? Cambridge cafes offer a wide variety of comforting hot chocolates to enjoy during the chillier months. Here’s our guide to the top five places to go to to warm up with this chocolatey treat. Hotel Chocolat Unit 43, Lion Yard, Cambridge, CB2 3NA A range of luxurious hot chocolates are on the menu at the cosy Hotel Chocolat café based in their Cambridge store. If you love a creamy topping these indulgent treats will be for you with options ranging from a classic hot chocolate to their mouthwatering salted caramel flavour. They even have a chilli hot chocolate – the perfect winter warmer. www.hotelchocolat.com

The Garden Café The Garden Café, Cambridge University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE This cafe’s Fairtrade hot chocolate can come with just cream or cream and crushed Maltesers! What’s more, the cafe based in the Botanical Gardens has glass walls so you can enjoy your delicious drink whilst overlooking the beautiful plants and flowers. www.thegardencafecambridge.co.uk

Chocolat Chocolat

Fitzbillies 51-52 Trumpington St, Cambridge, CB2 1RG The Fitzbillies bakery is famous for its tempting Chelsea buns but you also don’t want to miss out on their must try hot chocolate served up in their delightful cafe. It’s made fresh with ganache from the bakery and is simply heavenly for anyone with a sweet tooth! www.ﬁtzbillies.com

21 St Andrew’s St, Cambridge CB2 3AX Chocolate lovers won’t be able to resist stepping into this delightful chocolate shop. They sell tempting hot chocolate shots that are made with single origin 64% Ecuadorian chocolate. You also have the option to add chilli or cinnamon or for an extra treat, cream and mini mallows! www.chocolatchocolat.co.uk

Stir 253 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 1BG Stir, an independent cafe based on Chesterton Road is the perfect place to take the whole family. Not only do they have a tasty hot chocolate for you to enjoy but they also serve up a kid’s version with the option to add marshmallows or cream. www.stircambridge.co.uk

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Dive into St Ives, Cambridgeshire Written by Liz Mattock

mong the tea shops and independent stores, St Ives in Cambridgeshire has a long history and story to tell. Here are five things you might not know…

Instagram @jademarsh_ Tom’s Cakes, St Ives

St Ives is blessed with history and used to be a proud home for the working class, providing a watering hole for the many farmers and boat folk who regularly moored on the River Ouse. At one point there was total of 64 local pubs for locals to choose from. The town has never lost this charm and today the town has developed into a bustling market town, with streets adorned by bars, modern eateries and boutique shops. There is still evidence dating back to the 18th century, with the parish church standing tall amongst what can now be described as a shoppers’ haven.

Trade was done by boat and its cargo was an abundance of produce, cloth, grains with regular customers from all over Europe and even English royalty. On visiting the town make your way down to The Quay; amongst the modern cafes and shops you’ll spot one of the only houses left, steeped in the architectural style of the Dutch, who heavily influenced the town’s style in the 18th and early 19th century. Although you will still spot bargees on the river basin, the boats of old have been replaced by motorised boats taking tourists on day trips along the town’s banks.

Take a walk through history and follow in the footsteps of the past tradesmen. Start at St Audrey Lane and head down Ramsey Road towards The Quay, where traders of the past would set out their stalls ready for trading. Finish the route by visiting one of three main tourist sites.

The Norris Museum on The Broadway houses memories from a part of Cambridgeshire that is no longer in existence, the county of Huntingdonshire. Step inside for an insight into this lost world through art, photographs and artefacts. This is also the perfect spot to pick up a guidebook, on sale at the museum gift shop.

Stop off for some of the best cakes and coffee in town at Tom’s Cakes on Market Hill. The café bakes from scratch which means they only bake in small batches, so get in there quick to avoid missing out. The Oliver Cromwell statue and The Victoria Jubilee Fountain are also worth a visit; a salute to Mr Cromwell who was a resident for five years and the fountain which was built to celebrate the 60 year reign of Queen Victoria over Britain. Many of the local walking and cycle routes pass through both historical and modern day St Ives, so be sure to use that guidebook to locate some of the hidden treasures this town has to offer. Useful links: www.visitcambridge.org/beyond-cambridge/st-ives www.norrismuseum.org.uk

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What’s on: Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 1-10 Feb Pressure ‘Pressure’, the acclaimed play by David Haig, is the remarkable real-life tale of two warring Allied meteorologists tasked with predicting the weather conditions for the D-Day landings. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 5-6 Feb The Ghost’s Touch A haunting play by John Goodrum based on the chilling tale by Wilkie Collins, the author of ‘The Woman In White’. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 5-Feb Jimmy Carr One of the UK’s best loved comedians brings his Best of, Ultimate, Gold, Greatest Hits tour back to the Cambridge Corn Exchange. Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 6-Feb Joel Dommett One of the UK’s most energetic and exciting comedians returns to the road with his solo show, Joel Dommett: LIVE. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 6-10 Feb Sizwe Banzi is Dead Set in a photography studio, the plot follows a man who comes in to have his photograph taken. He enters as Sizwe Bansi, but due to a series of circumstances beyond his control, leaves as Robert Zwelinzima. Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ . 01223 300085 www.corpusplayroom.com 7-8 Feb Spring A kaleidoscopic show, ‘Spring’ is visually arresting from the outset and at the vanguard throughout. It is an innovative cross art form experience challenging notions of movement and physicality, exploring the relationships between contemporary dance,

circus and music. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 8-Feb Manwatching It begins with a male comedian being given a script they have never seen before. They read the script out loud, sight unseen, in front of an audience. This is a show about what one woman thinks about when she thinks about sex with men. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 9-Feb The Horne Section Expect a heady mix of spontaneous stand-up, spectacular performance and outlandish musical talent led by the brilliant comedian Alex Horne. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 13-17 Feb Assassins A darkly humorous blend of fiction and history, conspiracy and truth, Stephen Sondheim’s ‘Assassins’ depicts the disturbing lives of the nine individuals who have attempted to or successfully assassinated American Presidents. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 14-Feb Twelfth Night ‘Twelfth Night’ is a tale of unrequited love – hilarious and heartbreaking. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 14-Feb Tim Vine: Sunset Milk Idiot It’s Tim Vine back on tour, telling lots of silly new jokes, showing off new homemade props, singing some new daft ditties, and all with the appearance of confidence. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 14-24 Feb ART ‘ART’ is a phenomenon and one of the most successful plays ever, and has been packing in audiences world-

wide for more than twenty years. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 17-Feb Richard Herring: Oh Frig, I’m 50! Richard Herring gets to the half century (against all odds) and looks at how his life has changed in the last decade. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 18-Feb Mirror Mirror Join Snow White at her wedding, and the whole story: magic mirror, wicked stepmother, seven dwarfs and all, will be revealed. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 18-Feb Sarah Millican: Control Enthusiast Sarah Millican is not a control freak, she’s a control enthusiast. You’ll learn about Rescue Men, farting in hospital pants, what can happen at a bra fitting, the benefits of casserole, plus tips on how to talk to shop assistants and the correct way to eat a biscuit. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 20-24 Feb The Lieutenant of Inishmore ‘The Lieutenant of Inishmore’ is a black comedy centred around a cat, a terrorist organisation, and scheming on rural Irish lanes. Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 300085 www.corpusplayroom.com 21-Feb Transluna Paradise Experience a journey of life, death and enduring love. A poignant, life-affirming tale without words. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 26 Feb - 3 Mar Strangers on a Train In the great tradition of Hitchcock, this spine-chilling tale will delight you with its dark wit whilst having you on

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the edge of your seat from the start. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

and countertenor Tim Mead, in some of the most sublime music of the early 18th century. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk

27-28 Feb Private Lives London Classic Theatre present a major new touring production of Noël Coward’s sparkling comedy. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT . 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk

22-Feb Sona Jobarteh & Munto Valdo The stunning Gambian sundrenched chords of Kora virtuoso Sona Jobarteh will return to open the City Roots Festival at the Corn Exchange. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

28-Feb Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour 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, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

1-Mar The Lionel Richie Songbook Malcolm Pitt delivers a powerhouse and breathtaking performance as the iconic Lionel Richie in this mustsee theatre production. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 2-25 Feb Exhibition Showcase MUSIC of Gallery Artists 2018 10-Feb Ruby Turner Craftwork, handmade original print, To date, Ruby has released 17 picture, sculpture and jewellery. albums plus the BBC’s ‘Live From Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, CamGlastonbury’, as well as appearing bridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 on releases by the likes of Brian www.byardart.co.uk Ferry, UB40, Steve Winwood and Mick Jagger. Key Theatre, Embank13 Feb - 31 Dec RA250 at the Fitz ment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. The pick of the museum’s collection 01733 207239 by six Royal Academicians who have www.vivacity-peterborough.com connections with Cambridge and the Fitz: Eileen Cooper, Stephen 11-Feb Pop Divas Live Chambers, Anne Desmet, Antony The best songs from all your faGormley, Nigel Hall and Mali Morris. vourite female stars in one fabulous The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpingfun-packed show – that’s Pop Diva’s ton Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB Live! Key Theatre, Embankment 01223 332900. Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 23 Feb - 11 Mar Ralph Steadman: Critical Critters & Sid Burnard 16-Feb The 50s and 60s Exhibition Spectacular The Babylon Gallery will be hosting This February sees one of the an exhibition of signed, limited biggest ever line ups of 60s artistes edition prints by the great cartoonist to visit The Cresset, with bands that and illustrator Ralph Steadman have enjoyed worldwide record sucalongside driftwood sculptures cess. The Cresset, Bretton Centre,from Sid Burnard. Babylon Gallery, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. Waterside Ely, CB7 4AU. 01353 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 616991. www.babylonarts.org.uk 16-Feb Academy of Ancient Music 27 Feb - 31 Dec Inspired by In a concert that will pull at the heart Civilisations strings, baroque specialist Christian This display shows how two Greek Curnyn directs soprano Keri Fuge

vases and encaustic portraits, relate to the BBC series Civilisations theme, and suggests ways in which the theme can be explored throughout the galleries of Antiquity in the Museum.The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 9-12 Feb E-Luminate Festival Cambridge The e-Luminate Cambridge Festival is a celebration of the infinite possibilities created by light at the intersection of art and science. Buildings throughout the city will be lit up, plus there will be a number of talks and workshops to attend. Various Locations in Cambridge www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/e-luminate 13-Feb Twilight at the Museums Get out and explore Cambridge museums and collections after hours. Various Locations in Cambridge. 01223 746406 14-Feb Wild Wednesdays at Ferry Meadows Children and adults are welcome to come and join in some seasonal and wild crafts. Meet at Discovery Den. 10am-2pm. £1 per person. Ferry Meadows, Ham Lane, Peterborough, PE2 5UU. 01733 234193. www.neneparktrust.org.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 11-Feb St Ives Antiques Fair Around 50 dealers offering affordable quality antiques and vintage pieces. The Burgess Hall (One Leisure), Westwood Road, St Ives, PE27 6WU 24-25 Feb The Curiosity Fair 30 stalls of vintage, antiques, crafts and collectables in this lovely busy garden centre. This is a busy weekend fair. Entry £1. Open Saturday 11am to 4pm and Sunday 10am to 3pm. Scotsdales Garden Centre 120 Cambridge road, Gt Shelford Cambridgeshire, CB22 5JT 07803 167982

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Shopping in

Saffron Walden Written by Amanda French www.anoseforfood.com

here are plenty of reasons to head on over to Saffron Walden for a day of shopping. With shops galore, markets and art galleries, this ancient market town is packed full of independent businesses to enjoy. Saffron Walden has held a market since 1141 and it continues the tradition to this very day with market days taking place on Tuesdays and Saturdays every week. As well as the traditional market wares, every Saturday Walden Local Food Market arrives off King Street, on Butcher Row, from 8.30am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3.30pm selling fresh, local and mainly organic fruit and vegetables. You might even spot celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, who is a regular visitor at the fish stall! www.waldenlocalfood.co.uk The popular Curiosity Fair takes place again on the 3 March at the Friends Meeting House. Pop down to enjoy 25 stalls of vintage, antiques, crafts and collectables as well as some tea and cake. The event takes place every other month.

Looking for the perfect gift for someone? Why not pop into one of the many cute gift shops in town. Choose between Talents, The Corner Cupboard, or Angela Reed to pick out the perfect present for a loved oneâ&#x20AC;Ś or yourself! Visit www.visitsaffronwalden.gov.uk to find out more about local shops and events taking place in the area.

One of the most popular shopping experiences in Saffron Walden is a visit to one of the art galleries. Church Street Gallery is a beautiful and independent gallery managed by local artist, Debbie Scott. They have a range of Original British Printmakers works and affordable contemporary paintings in a range of styles. Keep an eye out for their regular exhibitions held throughout the year. www.churchstreetgallery.co.uk The Saffron Walden Gallery is also worth a visit as it displays work by an eclectic mix of contemporary artists, sculptors and ceramicists. Enjoy works by both established and up-and-coming artists. www.thesaffronwaldengallery.com

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What’s on in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 5-6 Feb Bill Bailey: Larks in Transit ‘Larks in Transit’ is a compendium of travellers’ tales and the general shenanigans of twenty years as a travelling comedian. With musical virtuosity, surreal tangents and trademark intelligence, Bill Bailey tackles politics, philosophy and the pursuit of happiness. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 5-Feb Teechers by John Godber Crammed full of unforgettable characters, political left-hooks and razor-sharp comedy, ‘Teechers’ is more relevant today than ever, a modern classic with something vital to say about education for the ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 7-Feb Betty Blue Eyes ‘Betty Blue Eyes’ is a delightful story full of delicious, toe-tapping songs and plenty of dancing. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 9-Feb Shappi Khorsandi - Mistress and Misfit Shappi presents England’s unsung heroine, Emma Hamilton. As a fellow naked dancer on tables, Shappi is inspired by Emma, although she never wants hair big enough to house mice in. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 9-Feb Bowie Starman Songs from all eras of David Bowie’s celebrated career are performed to perfection in this highly charged show. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com 10-Feb Bouncers A funny, energetic piece of highly

theatrical storytelling where the men are at once themselves, and every character they happen to meet on a night at work at the nightclub. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 13-14 Feb Dear Zoo This production will delight all those who have read the book (both young and old) as it unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 13-Feb Brainiac Live! More mischievous than ever before Brainiac Live! will take you on a breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 13-Feb There and Back Again: An Odyssey Follow CBeebies Patrick Lynch as he uses a pioneering mix of live cinema and theatre to take you on a thrilling ride across the magical world of ancient Greece. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 13-17 Feb Mad Forest by Caryl Churchill ‘Mad Forest’ involves real life statements from people that were living through the revolution. The play creates a web of interwoven perspectives on the impact of the revolution, giving the audience insights into the revolution including the use of Verbatim theatre. The Old Court Theatre, Springfield Road, Chelmsford. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 14-16 Feb Michael McIntyre: Work in Progress See Michael McIntyre in Southend in this tour warm-up performance. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, South-

end-on-Sea, SS0 7RA . 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 15-Feb Rope Based on a 1920’s real-life case, this dark classic, brilliantly evoking a jazz age generation, was filmed by Alfred Hitchcock in 1948 and remains to this day one of the most tightly coiled of thrillers. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 15-17 Feb Footloose Telling the story of city boy Ren McCormack who has to move from Chicago to the small backwoods town of Bomont. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 19-24 Feb Fat Friends The Musical Join the infamous group of TV’s most loveable characters as they are put through their Zumba paces at their local branch of Super Slimmers by the lovelorn Lauren whilst Kelly fantasises about fitting in to the wedding dress of her dreams. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 22-Feb Tom Allen The sharply dressed, well-spoken, disparagingly camp son of working class Bromley, Tom Allen embarks on his debut solo tour this spring. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 22-Feb Cat on a Hot Tin Roof On a steamy night in Mississippi, a Southern family gather at their cotton plantation to celebrate Big Daddy’s birthday. The scorching heat is almost as oppressive as the lies they tell. Brick and Maggie dance round the secrets and sexual tensions that threaten to destroy their marriage. With the future of the family at stake, which version of the truth is real – and which will win out? Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1JH. 01206 713 700. www.firstsite.uk

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24-Feb Richard Digance Richard resumes as normal after his Golden Anniversary celebrations of 2017 with a series of dates doing what he loves best, telling stories, playing the guitar and singing songs. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 25-Feb Lee Hurst Lee Hurst, star of BBC1’s They Think Its All Over’ is back with his brand new show. Lee will be turning up, lobbing gags and funny stuff at you from all angles. A hilarious night is about to hit town. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk MUSIC 8-Feb The Rocket Man A tribute to Multi-Grammy award-winning legend and superstar, Sir Elton John. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG.01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 9-Feb Feeling Good A Celebration of Michael Buble ‘Feeling Good’ is a musical journey through the story and songs of one of the most important and successful male artists of recent decades. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 9-Feb Joe Brown Solo Show Joe Brown, legendary rock guitarist/ ukulele champion, embarks on a huge solo tour this Autumn with 50+ years of great stories and music. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 19-Feb Rat Pack Live ‘Rat Pack Live’ invites you to be part of the gang and features all the patter and razzamatazz of their infamous live shows. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 21-Feb Buble meets Sinatra Who will be your favourite when

the worlds of these two superstars collide in one stunningly authentic tribute concert backed by a full live band? The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 22-Feb The Rolling Stone Story The Rolling Stones have dominated Rock ’n’ Roll music since the 1960s and were at the forefront of the British Invasion of bands that conquered the US in 1964. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 23-Feb Andrew Lingham Join Andrew Linham and guests for a sublime afternoon of swinging jazz standards and original material. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 23-Feb Forever in Blue Jeans A perfect feast of entertainment with superb singers, dancers and musicians playing the best in Country Music and Rock ‘n’ Roll. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 24-Feb The Bohemians The Bohemians, established in 1996, re-enact the glory days of Queen including the Craziness of the 70s and the Magic of the 80s proving themselves to be the most dynamic and exciting Queen Tribute Band currently touring. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1 Jan - 18 Feb Grayson Perry: The Life of Julie Cope A presentation consisting of tapestries, woodcuts, ceramics and tiles designed by the Turner Prize-winning artist for ‘A House for Essex’ (2015). Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester CO1 1JH. 01206 713 700 www.firstsite.uk 27 Jan - 24 Feb Pablo Picasso A collection of Original Prints. Hayletts Gallery, 2 High Street,

Maldon, CM9 5PJ. 01621 851669 www.haylettsgallery.com 6-Feb Charles Holland: A House For Essex and Other Stories ‘A House For Essex’ was a creative collaboration between Grayson Perry and FAT Architecture. In this lecture FAT’s Charles Holland will tell the story of the architecture via a journey across the county, from its industrial London fringe to its agricultural north. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1JH 01206 713 700. www.firstsite.uk 9-Feb Lecture: Madonnas & Miracles, Fitzwilliam Museum Dr Victoria Avery, Keeper of Applied Arts, Fitzwilliam Museum on a pioneering and complex exhibition showing the holy home in Renaissance Italy. The Fry Art Gallery, Castle Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1BD. 01799 513779. www.fryartgallery.org SPECIAL EVENTS Every Saturday Mersea Island Park Run at Cudmore Grove Country Park A 5km run - it’s you against the clock. Every Saturday at 9am. East Mersea, Colchester, CO5 8UE www.parkrun.org.uk/merseaisland 17-Feb Model Railway Club Exhibition Exhibition with 10 working layouts, traders, second-hand stall and refreshments. 10am-4.30pm. United Reformed Church and Salvation Army Halls, Abbey Lane, CB10 1AG. www.visitsaffronwalden.gov.uk 28-Feb Vintage Pearl Cake Making Class at Lottie and Jakes Learn how to make a Vintage Pearl Cake. Ideal gift, vouchers are available. 17 Kings head Centre, 38 High Street, Maldon, CM9 5PN www.lottieandjakes.com AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 18-Feb Coggeshall Vintage, Antique & Collectors Fair Coggeshall Village Hall, Stoneham Street, Coggeshall, CO6 1UH. 08454 309310

For full listings visit: www.eastlife.co.uk eastlife.co.uk

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Brighten up your weekend on a budget

in Beccles and Bungay Written by Liz Mattock

Image: Beccles Quay, The Suffolk Coast www.thesuffolkcoast.co.uk

f you are planning a weekend in East Anglia, there is nowhere better than the small market town of Beccles in stunning south Suffolk. It may be small but it has a lot to offer.

You won’t be stuck for things to do in Beccles, with adventures at every turn for all members of the family, old or young, sea farer or land goer – there is something for everyone. Angels & Pinnacles Explore the enchanting medieval churches of Suffolk including Beccles’ very own creation, St Michaels Church with vibrant stain glass and depictions. A day exploring the rich religious history provides an educational day out for the kids, but a lush lesson in architecture and history for adults too. The church opens 10am until 4pm. There is no charge but voluntary donations are welcome. Find out more at www.angelsandpinnacles.org.uk/churches/ beccles-st-michael The Suffolk Walking Festival sweeps through Beccles for its 11th year this summer. The festival runs from 12 May until 3 June and will be launched at St Peters Hall in Bungay. This year the programme of events is bigger and better than ever with over 120 different themed and led

walks from one mile to 60 and welcomes walkers both new and old. Routes take walkers through beautiful Suffolk scenery, over road, field and path and suits all abilities, groups, single explorers and families alike. Try Nordic walking or classic walks which take place over a number of days and some really tough terrain. See www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk for more information. Pop down to the Urban Jungle Plant Nursery & Café where the exotic goes beyond the plants on offer for the coffees and cakes, gifts and home trinkets available there too. Walk through the nursery and café and be immersed into a jungle world, far from the surrounding Suffolk countryside. Pick up some advice on growing a healthy cactus or bonsai tree or pick up some tips for chilli growing. Cosy furniture, hot coffee and refreshments greet you at the end of your long adventure to the jungle land. Enjoy brunch from 10am, with a full lunch and sharing menu available from midday. If you are visiting with adults, the space also serves up a tasty cocktail, meaning you’ll just have to stay the night at one of the nearby cosy guesthouses. www.urbanjungle.uk.com.

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THE SWAN MOTEL THE SWAN MOTEL, A MOTEL, RESTAURANT AND PUBLIC HOUSE SITUATED IN THE VILLAGE OF GILLINGHAM ON THE NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK BORDER JUST OUTSIDE THE MARKET TOWN OF BECCLES.

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Magnificent Rooms To Complete Your Stay We have 14 fully refurbished rooms for you to choose from including our DoubleDeluxe-Ensuite-Honeymoon Suite

Loddon Road, Gillingham, Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 0LD | 01502 470005

Image above: Bungay, The Suffolk Coast www.thesuffolkcoast.co.uk

Hooray it’s off to Bungay! If it’s a shopping and history weekend break you’ve got your heart set on, you’ll find it in Bungay. A little livelier but still just as easy on the eye as its neighbour Beccles, the town offers independent shops and one of the oldest theatres around. You won’t be stuck for something to eat and drink whilst exploring the area with streets dotted with local pubs and cafés. Some of the quirkier options include the Suffolk Stonehouse located on Lower Olland Street, serving stone-baked pasta and pizza by the plateful and the Bhan Thai serving authentic Thai cuisine on Earsham Street. With full tummies and heavy shopping bags, why not book a room at The Castle Inn, offering cosy guestrooms and dining? www.thecastleinn.net

If you are planning an extended weekend trip, you might be lucky to catch the weekly street market selling jams, honey, Suffolk cured ham, fruit and vegetables – all made by local producers. The market is held weekly on a Thursday from 7am until they sell out. If you find yourself with a spare afternoon during your trip, Bigod Castle is well worth a visit. The Bigods were a well-known Norman family who assisted King William with the Conquest of England in 1066. The castle was a gift from King William to the family for their assistance. The grounds and castle-standing is a sight to behold. The castle is free to visit but voluntary donations are welcome. Warm up afterwards at the aptly named Jesters coffee shop serving hot drinks and light bites. www.bungay-suffolk.co.uk/activities/castle.asp

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Earsham Home Furnishings

Our extensive showrooms house a large range of pine, oak & hand painted furniture in East Anglia, traditional fireplaces, surrounds and accessories, solid brass lighting, mirrors, prints, giftware and decorative accessories.

Monday - Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm • Sunday 10.00pm – 4.00pm • Bank Holidays 9.00am – 5.00pm Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: enquiries@earshamhall.co.uk - Web: www.earshamhall.co.uk

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Helmingham is famous for its Grade 1 Listed gardens, redesigned by Lady Tollemache (a Chelsea Gold Medallist) set in a 400 acre deer park surrounding a moated Tudor Hall. Visitors are enchanted by the herbaceous borders within the walled kitchen gardens, the herb & knot garden, rose and wild gardens. A delicious range of local food is served in the Coach House Tearooms and the Stable Shops offer a wide array of local produce, plants, garden accessories and local crafts. Winner of the HHA/Christie’s Garden of the Year Award 2017 Many special events including The Festival of Classic & Sports Cars and specialist Plant Fairs are held throughout the season and groups are warmly welcomed. Please contact us for further details of group booking discounts. Open May – September Tues, Wed, Thurs and Sun 12:00 – 17:00

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What’s on: Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 7-8 Feb Comedy, Anarchy and Mayhem Jaw-dropping spectacles, laugh out loud slapstick, gentle humour, mystical magic, high paced juggling, tender moments and utter nonsense. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 8-Feb The Snow Maiden Based on a traditional folk-tale, set in the snow covered landscape of rural Russia, this seasonal sparkler follows the Snow Maiden as she dances into the human world. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 9-10 Feb Judy & Liza Set against a background of photographs and movie clips of the two women, this production features performances of all of your favourite hits. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 10-Feb Once Upon A Fairytale An all singing, dancing, magical show featuring all your favourite princesses and other fairytale characters. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 11-12 Feb The Jungle Book Immersion Theatre is thrilled to be returning, with their brand new musical adaptation of family favourite, The Jungle Book! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 11-Feb Comedy 4 Kids A stand-up comedy show for children over 6, their parents and anyone who likes comedy without the rude words. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 12-Feb Monstersaurus This energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will delight the whole family – with original music

and plenty of audience participation! For ages 3+. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill , CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 13-Feb From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads This is an astonishing physical piece of solo theatre and visual storytelling, featuring the music of David Bowie. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505, www.theatreroyal.org 14-15 Feb Queers This is a Seagull Theatre fundraiser with part of the proceeds going towards Norfolk LGBT. This performance aims to build awareness for LGBT+ History Month. Queers celebrates a century of evolving social attitudes. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 15-Feb Foolhardy Circus - Show ‘The Foolhardy Circus’ troupe return with their circus skills and comedy acrobatics show. Lots of clowning around, seven-ball juggling, magic and death-defying acrobatics all presented with lashings of happiness. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 15-Feb Jason Manford: Muddle Class ‘Muddle Class’ promises to feature a wealth of new material about Jason growing up ‘working class’ then finding, over the years, that part of him has become ‘middle class’ - causing much confusion! Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 17-18 Feb Dear Zoo This production will delight all those who have read the book (both young and old) as it unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction. Theatre Royal, Westgate Streetm Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR, 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org

17-Feb Frozen Planet in Concert This is the ultimate portrait of the polar regions – the planet’s last great wilderness – captured in high definition film and featuring live orchestral music alongside breath-taking bigscreen footage from the landmark David Attenborough fronted BBC television series. Snape Maltings Concert Hall, Snape, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110. snapemaltings.co.uk/ whats-on/frozen-planet-concert 19-24 Feb Teddy Saturday night. Teddy and Josie are about to hit the streets of London for a good time. Hair quiffed. Red lipstick. Dressed toe to head in the latest threads. So what if it’s pouring down, they’re totally skint, and someone wants them dead? A little trouble never stopped a Ted from having a good time. Desperate times call for rock ‘n’ roll. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 22-Feb The Structure of DNA In this session we will get an insider’s in-depth view of the structure of DNA and cutting edge research to unlock some of its mysteries. Find out more about the double helix of life. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 23-Feb Cirque Enchantment This concert style cirque production features stunning choreography, breathtaking live vocals and mesmerising circus performers. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH . 01502 533200 26-Feb Walk With Me The film touches on the universal themes of belonging, love, loss, hope and death, relevant for not just monks and nuns but for us all. Haverhill Arts Centre,High Street Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 28-Feb ROH Presents - The Winter’s Tale ‘The Winter’s Tale’ received ecstatic praise at its première, acclaimed by

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critics and audiences alike for its intelligent, distinctive and emotionally powerful story, told through exquisite dance. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org

a household name. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

23-Feb Mawkin With a host of rebel rousing folk songs and instrumentals the band MUSIC modernise traditional folk material 9-Feb Andante Live Presents with their own touch and have Blowin’ in the Wind since excited audiences with their Combining the vocal harmonies of artillery of loud, boisterous, foot Vee Sweeney and Mark Rowson, 16 stomping live sets. The Cut, New Cut, instruments between them and outHalesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211 standing musicianship, they perform newcut.org an uplifting and inspiring show to give you a fabulous evening of un24-Feb Johnny Warman’s Magic Bus forgettable music. Fisher Theatre, Presents The Mods & Rockers Show Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE ‘The Mods & Rockers Show’ features 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org over two hours of classic songs by Mod and Rock artists. Fisher Theatre, 10-Feb Polaris Presents A Night of Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE 50s & 60s Dance 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org Polaris is a highly experienced 4-piece band playing the Sounds of 24-Feb Songbird – The Music of the Sixties, classic rock ‘n roll, soul Fleetwood Mac and blues. Fisher Theatre, Broad Songbird offer a tribute to this iconic Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 rock band with a mix of light, sound 897130. www.fishertheatre.org and video projection. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, 16-Feb The Beegees Story - Nights NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. on Broadway www.theseagull.co.uk ‘Nights On Broadway’ presents a tribute to the Bee Gees through their 24-Feb The Best of Wham! catalogue of hits over four decades A new show featuring the best of from the 60s to the 90s. Grand Hall, George, Andrew, Pepsi and Shirlie Corn Exchange, King Street, Ipswich with sensational vocals, choreograIP1 1DH. apps.ipswich.gov.uk phy, costumes and an awesome live band. Marina Theatre, The Marina, 16-Feb Someone Like You - The Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. Adele Songbook www.marinatheatre.co.uk An immaculate celebration of one of our generation’s finest singer-songARTS & EXHIBITIONS writers, and is returning to theatres in 3-18 Feb Valentine’s Exhibition 2018. Marina Theatre, The Marina, An exhibition of still life paintings by Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 gallery regulars Kate Felton, Chris www.marinatheatre.co.uk Kendrick, Sally Anne Fitter and Penny German. Southwold Gallery, 64a High 17-Feb T.Rextasy Street, Southwold, IP18 6DN. 01502 Truly a rock’n’roll concert for all ages. 723888. www.southwoldgallery.co.uk/ If you would like to know exactly exhibitions what a Marc Bolan concert was like in the 1970s, this show is for you! 13 Feb - 11 Mar Institute of East The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Anglian Artists Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 The Institute of East Anglian Artists www.theapex.co.uk (IEA) represents established and up-and-coming artists who live in the 22-Feb Kast Off Kinks area. It aims to provide a focus for Former members of the legendary artistic excellence, raise the profile of band, The Kinks, back together the arts in the region, and inspire and playing great music and re-living encourage the teaching of them. the good times, whilst keeping the The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St songs alive that made The Kinks

Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 20-Feb Girl Power - A Short History of Women Artists This talk looks at the work of over 40 women artists from the Middle Ages to the present day. It examines not only style but the socio-political background. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211 newcut.org SPECIAL EVENTS 9-Feb The Great Big Cut Quiz Announcing the return of Suffolk’s quirkiest quiz night guaranteed to get your brain cells warmed-up this winter. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 10 & 24 Feb Crafts & Gifts at The Apex Local exhibitors offer a great selection of handmade crafts & unique gifts. Free entry. Open 10am4.30pm. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 10-Feb East Anglia Potato Day An annual seed potato sale now in the 23rd year. Generally 80-100 varieties available to buy per tuber, plus onion sets, root-trainers and insect mesh available. Stoneham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT 3-Mar Festival of Fabric A one day celebration of vintage style clothes making with specialist traders, vintage fashion lectures, sewing and millinery workshops, vintage fashion exhibition from the 1930s to 1950s, afternoon tea and music supplied by a vintage swing DJ. Entry £5. The Orwell Hotel, Hamilton Road, Felixstowe, IP11 7DX AUCTIONS AND ANTIQUES 24-25 Feb Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair A monthly two-day antiques and vintage fair featuring 50 tables. Free parking. Dog friendly. Wheelchair accessible. £1 adult entry. Children under 16 free. Open 9.30am-4pm. The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX

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Norfolk Life in a Fine County

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Romantic Retreats

his time of year for me always feels a little grey. So, to cheer myself up I’ve been planning my holidays and dreaming of lazy, hazy days, basking in summer sunshine with a glass of something cool, refreshing and alcoholic in hand…

Sunshine getaways are perfect to lift the mood at this time of year, but staying closer to home can actually prove to be more relaxing; no long car journeys, no airport queues and of course no language barriers! And, whilst I may be a little biased on how great Norfolk is, in terms of places to go for a short break, you really are spoilt for choice. So whilst I continue to daydream about jetting off to Italy to escape the miserable month of February, why don’t you take a look to see if a weekend getaway in Norfolk takes your fancy this year?

Family Fun

There is a range of beautiful boutique hotels in Norfolk from the West to the North Coast, and of course scattered throughout Norwich. A personal favourite on the coast is Titchwell Manor (www.titchwellmanor.com). Here you’ll find beautifully decorated bedrooms, amazing food and stunning scenery. If you’re looking to stay in town, head to either the Assembly House (www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk) or The Georgian Townhouse (www.thegeorgiantownhousenorwich. com). Both are in easy reach of the theatre, great restaurants and shops and offer a truly boutique experience.

Budget Breaks If you’re a lover of the great outdoors or just want a cheap weekend getaway, there are some great campsites along the Norfolk coast that should be on your list this year. One place in particular is Deepdale Farm (www.deepdalebackpackers.co.uk). Bring your own tent or campervan, hire a yurt or if there’s a large group of you, maybe consider staying in their group hostel? Keep up to date with events in Norfolk this winter, and join our Facebook group: What’s On in Norfolk with Eastlife: www.facebook.com/groups/8052-22059608791 Titchwell Manor

Retreat to the woods with all the family! With Centre Parcs’ Elevden Forest (www.centerparcs.co.uk) and Forest Holidays’ Thorpe Forest just down the road (www.forestholidays.co.uk), you can take your pick of cabins in beautiful, natural surroundings. Both holiday parks have activities to keep both the children and adults entertained.

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Five reasons to

visit Harleston

Written by Amanda French www.anoseforfood.com

arleston is a gem hidden in the heart of the Waveney Valley on the Norfolk/Suffolk border. If you haven’t visited yet, then why not? We’ve got five good reasons to visit this ancient market town.

The history. Voted Norfolk Town of the year on several occasions, this town features buildings packed with character. Old coaching inns remain as a legacy from the days when the town was on the main coaching route from London to Great Yarmouth. Enjoy a wander around and take in the sights of the historic town.

Cultural events. Harleston prides itself on its wide range of cultural events, many of which revolve around its vibrant arts community. The annual Harleston & Waveney Art Trail takes place over three weekends in late spring and sees more than 30 professional artists open their studios to the public, showcasing their work and discussing their techniques and approaches. In October ‘A Taste Of Harleston’ takes over the market place with an array of locallymade foodie treats including artisan cheese, pies, cakes and pastries and more. There’s also the chance to enjoy street food such as pulled pork, chilli nachos and hot dogs. Live entertainment and craft activities are also on offer and two local farms open their doors for the day.

The markets. The market which began back in 1259 continues to run on Wednesdays in Harleston from 9am until 1pm. There’s also the Harleston Farmers’ market which is held at the Swan Hotel from 9am until 1pm every third Saturday. You’ll find a range of exciting stalls showcasing locally sourced food and drink as well as a range of household items.

The local countryside. Harleston is surrounded by beautiful countryside, so why not make the most of it by enjoying one of the three circular walks which start and end in Harleston, taking in some beautiful views. There are also plenty of cycle routes to enjoy in the area.

The Beer. Enjoy a visit to one of the local awardwinning microbreweries in the area including Grain Brewery and St Peter’s Brewery and try some delicious beers. Visit www.grainbrewery.co.uk and www.stpetersbrewery.co.uk to find out more.

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KNITTING & SEWING Beautiful yarns and patterns from Sirdar, Debbie Bliss, Patons, Katia and Stylecraft. Haberdashery and sewing sundries.

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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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Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not all.... we also offer an in-house Clothing Alterations and Repairs Service, and Dry Cleaning too.

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Top 5 things to do on the Broads

ou don’t need us to tell you the Norfolk Broads are beautiful, but what you might not know is that beyond the boats and banks there is so much more fun to be had. A boating holiday on the Broads is guaranteed to be a blast at any time of the year, but if you’re looking to get more out of your break or fancy a day trip to Norfolk’s famous waterways, then put these activities on your list:

Hire a canoe

Boat hire on the Broads is a given but how about getting a little closer to nature and hiring a canoe? The calm waters of the Broads make it perfect for beginners with easy paddling. It’s a great way to see wildlife up close and explore places that a motorboat just can’t go! Canoe and kayak hire is available at various locations throughout the Broads via www.thecanoeman.com

Family fun at Wroxham Barns

Considered the capital of the Broads, Wroxham is a great place to explore. However, if you have the family in tow head for Wroxham Barns. Here you’ll find everything children love; mini golf, train rides, giant slides, swings and fairground rides – hours of entertainment await. The Junior Farm will be a hit with all ages with opportunities to feed and pet the animals. There’s also shopping, arts and crafts for adults too! www.wroxhambarns.co.uk

Brewery Tours

Get arty

Cycling

A trip to Norfolk wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local tipple. Head to Woodforde’s Brewery, in Woodbastwick, and experience the crafting of its beers. You’ll be shown around the brewery, learn about the making process and get to sample a couple too! Tours last one hour and cost £12 per person. woodfordes.co.uk

If you’re not up for painting a perfect picture of the Broads yourself, stop by one of the local art galleries where you can browse scenic work and talent from local artists. Visit The Studio Art Gallery and Tea Rooms in Acle, Riverside Art and Glass in Wroxham or for something a little different stop by Sutton Pottery; an open studio workshop where you can watch what’s going on or book a pottery lesson. www.suttonpottery.com

Get on your bike and pedal your way along the Broads cycle route. The Broads Authority has a network of bike hire operators available so there’s no need to squeeze your bike into the car. Wind your way around the country lanes and along the footpaths and enjoy one of the most scenic cycling routes in Britain. www.thebroadsbybike.org.uk

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REEDHAM FERRY COMPLEX Reedham Ferry & The Archers Touring Park

OPENING TIMES: Monday - Sunday 10.00-17.00

For your camping holiday in Norfolk, we offer an idyllic setting in the heart of the Norfolk Broads.

Sutton Pottery Stoneware Pottery – Ideal Gifts “Throwing” Tuition – Gift Vouchers

We pride ourselves on cooking the best food from local suppliers, we prepare from fresh so you are aware straight away that quality shines through

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WWW.REEDHAMFERRY.CO.UK

the boathouse ormesby broad

A warm welcome is guaranteed at our magical waterfront location, overlooking the beautiful Ormesby Broad.

Traditional pub dining with some tasty chefs specials. Eat, drink, relax and enjoy The Boathouse. Booking advisable: 01493 730342

The Boathouse, Ormesby Broad, Eels Foot Road, Ormesby St. Michael, Norfolk NR29 3LP

www.theboathouseormesbybroad.co.uk

Steam Heritage|Gardens|Garden Centre

w w w. br e s s i n g h a m . c o . u k

2018 Season Opens Wednesday March 28th check www.bressingham.co.uk or call 01379 686900 for further details Find us on Facebook & Twitter just search for Bressingham Steam

What’s on: Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 6-17 Feb The Band Written by award-winning writer Tim Firth, this is a beautiful story for anyone who grew up with a boyband and how those songs became the soundtrack to their lives. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 6-Feb Going in Style Lifelong buddies decide to buck retirement and step off the straightand-narrow when their pension funds become a corporate casualty. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 7-Feb Land of Hope and Glory This patriotic and nostalgic afternoon is filled with marvellous and memorable songs. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 12-16 Feb Wingman Cupid is the God of Attraction, but when it comes to finding romance in his own life, he’s constantly shooting himself in the foot. With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, could love at first flight be just around the corner? Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 13-Feb Table 19 Eloise, having been relieved of maid of honor duties after being unceremoniously dumped by the best man via text, decides to attend the wedding anyway, only to find herself seated with five fellow unwanted guests at the dreaded Table 19. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 13-Feb Cirque de Hilarious A brand new exciting production for 2018 - a completely unique, fast paced, cirque style variety and comedy show, interspersed with magic, illusions, International circus acts

and stunning professional dancers. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 13-Feb Film: Wonder Based on the New York Times bestseller, ‘Wonder’ tells the inspiring and heartwarming story of August Pullman. Born with facial differences that, up until now, have prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 13-Feb Tony Law Tony is back to spearhead the UK’s alternative comedy scene with his brand new show. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 14-Feb Horrible Histories We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for a special production of Horrible Histories featuring more of your favourite characters from our barmy past – and a brand new scene with wordy Will! Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier, Cromer, NR27 9HE 01263 512495. www.cromerpier.co.uk/whats-on 15-Feb Ryhmes for Revoluting Children Jay Foreman is an award-winning musical comedian and provides a devilishly cheeky hour of songs, poems and comedy for children of all ages in this family friendly show. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 18-Feb Pocahontas The enduring tale of Pocahontas is one of discovery, freedom and love. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

20-Feb Film: Dunkirk Allied soldiers from Belgium, the British Empire and France are surrounded by the German Army, and evacuated during a fierce battle in World War II. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 21-24 Feb Blithe Spirit Researching for his new novel, Charles Condomine invites the implausible medium Madame Arcati to his house for a séance. Whilst consumed in a trance, Madame Arcati unwittingly summons the ghost of Charles’ dead wife Elvira. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 22-Feb An Evening with Levison Wood Best-selling author, photographer and TV presenter Levison Wood will be taking his one-man show sharing his experiences and exploits as a modern day explorer. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 24-Feb Jason Donavon and his Amazing Midlife Crisis Jason is delighted to announce that he will be hitting the road once again in the autumn, only this time, it’s a tour with a twist!! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 27 Feb - 3 Mar Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella takes the audience into the heart of Prokofiev’s magnificent score, and the sights and sounds of war-torn London, with surround sound designed by Paul Groothuis, and a specially commissioned recording of a 60 piece orchestra, Lez Brotherston’s Olivier Award winning designs and lighting by Olivier Award-winning Neil Austin. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

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Potters

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With homemade meals such as liver and bacon, cottage pies, lasagne and many more at reasonable prices COME AND VISIT OUR FULLY REFURBISHED RESTAURANT Cream teas or any cakes with a cup of tea or coffee for only 2.99 Amusement arcade with pool table and fruit machines Call us on 01692 670415 Bridge Road, Potter Heigham, Norfolk, NR29 5JQ

Hethersett Old Hall School

Discover the difference OPEN DAY SATURDAY 3rd March 10.00 am - 12.00 noon

www.hohs.co.uk I enquiries@hohs.co.uk I 01603 810390

20-Feb Martin Harley & Daniel Kimbro Martin Harley is a supremely talented acoustic roots and blues guitarist, singer and songwriter with a burgeoning global reputation. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk MUSIC 24-Feb Rock & Roll Revolution 9-Feb Opera Boys The Bluejays (Winners of the National The UK’s finest classically trained Vintage Award for ‘Best Band’) young voices combine in a powerpresent an electrifying and authenhouse of vocal harmony to deliver tic tribute to the era when music a stunning blend of music ranging changed the world forever. Princess from Opera to Pop, and everything Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, in between. Princess Theatre, 13 PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Until 11 Feb The Russian Season: 10-Feb Bowjangles Royal Fabergé You can expect tales of monsters, Royal Fabergé explores the extraordiancient gods, historical figures and nary production and glittering saga of characters of pure fantasy in this Fabergé, the leading artist-jewellers action packed full length show. during the decades preceding the Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station First World War. Sainsbury Centre for Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. Visual Arts UEA, Norwich, NR4 7TJ 01263 822347. scva.ac.uk www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 1-3 Mar Sicarius Set to a powerful orchestral score, Sicarius is an original, thrilling, gothic tale of loyalty, betrayal, love and redemption. Maddermarket Theatre St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk

10-Feb Birds of Hell As always, expect something a bit odd. With beats, vocoder, guitar and samples of his dead relatives, Pete Murdoch keeps it carnal with songs and spoken word about dogging, sniffing poppers and being eaten by snakes. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 16-Feb Andante Live: Blowin’ In The Wind Combining the vocal harmonies of Vee Sweeney and Mark Rowson. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 17-Feb Mercury Queen Mercury have firmly established themselves as one of the world’s most authentic tributes to Queen. The show includes fantastic and authentic performances of the most popular Queen hits. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

30 Jan - 4 Feb Janice Lacey and Sandra Derry Exhibition Janice Lacey paints gouache still life. Sandra Derry’s paintings are inspired by the ever-changing scenery, buildings and birds. Fairhaven Garden, School Road, South Walsham, NR13 6DZ. 01603 270449. www.fairhavengarden.co.uk 7 Feb - 15 Mar Anita Corbin Visible Girls: Revisited In 1981, photographer Anita Corbin captured pivotal “coming of age” moments in the life of 56 young women – all members of different subcultural tribes. 36 years on Anita has re-photographed most of the original girls using new digital technology, creating a set of images that will sit alongside the originals in this touring exhibition. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 24 Feb - 21 Mar Spring Mixed Exhibition Paintings, prints, ceramics, sculpture, glass & jewellery by new & established artists. Bircham Gallery, 14

Market Place, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 www.birchamgallery.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 1-28 Feb Curious About King’s Lynn Take one of our self-guided walks with a treasure hunt theme – looping around the better-known sights, as well as some of the more unusual and quirky ones. Town Centre, King’s Lynn 01159 502151. www.curiousabout. co.uk/kingslynn.html 2-3 Feb Norwich Job Fair The Jobs Fair is a recruitment experience where you can talk to local and national employers face-to-face, in order to get a better idea of their roles and your own suitability. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. thejobfairs.co.uk 17-Feb Norwich Does Vintage The finest vintage traders in the UK to ensure a diverse and affordable shopping experience for all. With items from 1940s – 1990s, it’s your one stop shop to grab a piece of the past. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. britaindoesvintage.co.uk 28-Feb Julia Stafford Allen: The Garden Gate is Open An illutstrated talk on Garden Visiting through the centuries. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 18-Feb Norfolk Antique & Collectors Fair Room for 40 tables. 10am -4pm. Adults £1.Jubilee Hall, George Lane Loddon, NR14 6NB 25-Feb Blakeney Antique & Collectors Fair Maximum 24 Tables. Well Attended Throughout The Year. Free Parking. Open 10am-4pm. Admission £1. Blakeney Village Hall, Blakeney, NR25 7NQ. 01263 713120 25-Feb Hingham Antiques Fair 50+ stands. Open: 9.30am-3.30pm, Entry £2 admission. The Sports Hall Springfield Way, Hingham. NR9 4HB

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Innovate and Inspire

Our personal and passionate approach to each individual kitchen ensures we always deliver to an exceptionally high standard, not only in quality but also in design, use of space, functionality and beauty.

With you all the way from design to completion. Visit our showroom with stunning new displays for some superb New Year offers.

Tel: 01234 713 466 Email: sales@olneykitchens.co.uk - www.olneykitchens.co.uk 23 High Street South, Olney, Bucks, MK46 4AA

Beds, Bucks & Herts

Ready, set, race…

t’s time to get practicing your pancake flipping with the return of the Olney Pancake Race.

Olney’s historic pancake race returns this month on 13 February. No longer just a race, the event features a pancake breakfast, a kids race, raffle and ‘kidzone’ marquee run by Friends of Olney Library. The day kicks off with celebrity TV chef Lesley Water hosting the popular Pancake Breakfast at 8am in the Teflon Marquee. This year she is joined by John from The Bell and Bear and Ollie from Wildleaf who will be helping to cook up a tasty breakfast. Entry is by ticket only and cost £8.50 per person, but you’ll need to be super quick to book, tickets are selling fast.

Throughout the day there’s the chance to purchase the Pancake Day raffle tickets with the winning prize a £500 bicycle from Olney’s 2Pedalz. The draw will take place in the Church Hall at 8pm. The day comes to an end at 7pm as the international winner of the pancake race is announced via a web link with Liberal in the Church Hall. Bringing together the community, supported by local business, this historic event is one not to be missed. If you’re attending share your snaps with us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/eastlifemag or via Instagram @eastlifemag

After breakfast it’s on to the Children’s Race at the side of the Market Place at 10am, which is followed by the main event at 11.55am. Join the growing crowds as the 25 runners begin to assemble along the start line at the Bull Hotel. At 12.15pm the runners make their way to the Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul for the annual Shriving service and prize giving.

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Valentines Afternoon Tea Monday 12th – Sunday 18th February, after 2pm MUST be pre-booked by calling the shop on 01234 713152

£15 Per person

To see what LOVELY treats the Tea may include visit our Facebook page. Best Coffee in Olney – Phonebox Foodie December 2016 Win 2 pancakes and 2 medium drinks

Best Sandwich – Phonebox Foodie January 2018

every month for a year! Simply enter the Pancake Day Prize draw

www.olneypancakeparlour.co.uk

24-25 Market Place, Olney • 01234 713152 • info@olneypancakeparlour.co.uk

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Celebrations Magazine (May 2017).qxd

06/06/2017

15:48

Page 1

ONE OF HERTFORDSHIRE’S PREMIER WEDDING VENUES ... where the past and present unite

a choice of historic, traditional and contemporary surroundings a range of wonderful rooms accommodating 10 to 200 guests picturesque riverside location and beautiful gardens

High Street, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 9AL Tel: 01920 460316 www.warepriory.co.uk @warepriory warepriory

Have you got your Prom Dress

Our team of expert florists are commited to providing the best service to our customers and to staying at the sharp end of design and innovation.

If not visit us at Dusk

Till Dawn

We have super-sexy yet elegant prom dresses that have wow-factor. Remembering every girl’s tastes, our range (over 400) spans from traditional full length prom gowns to something short and sparkly. There’s no doubt that these dresses looking every bit the Prom Queen. No two dresses sold to same school.

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Our team of florists have won a number of awards including being Chelsea Medalists and becoming finalists in in the Florist of the Year & Florist of the Future competitions.

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1 Market Place, Olney, Buck MK46 4EA

What’s on: Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 3-17 Feb Blood Brothers Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 6-Feb Full Out Highly Sprung’s high-energy physical theatre performance takes you inside a nightclub where three teenage friends embark on a journey of love, loss and self-discovery. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk

sentation of a range of spectacular Chinese performances by professional and community artists. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 11-Feb Jimmy Carr: The Best Of, Ultimate, Gold, Greatest Hits Tour A man who has devoted his life to crafting perfect jokes and has left a trail of laughter in his wake, Jimmy Carr’s new tour will distil everything we love to laugh at and be shocked by. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com

7-9 Feb Find Me This disturbing play about mental health and difference is based on in-depth interviews with the family of a real-life Verity. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org

12-Feb I Believe In Unicorns It is a tale of the power of books, and the bravery of a young boy called Tomas. Tomas hates reading and school, but his world is turned upside down the day he meets the Unicorn Lady...Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

7-Feb An Evening of Mediumship with Tony Stockwell The popular star of TV’s Street Psychic, Psychic Private Eyes and Psychic Academy, Tony Stockwell has a long established credibility as one of the top Intuitive Mediums. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com

13-17 Feb Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella – a thrilling and evocative love story, set in London during the Second World War, which forms part of the company’s 30th anniversary celebrations. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com

7-Feb Anton and Erin - From Broadway to Hollywood Featuring dazzling new choreography, sparkling costumes and a sensational show band performing timeless music. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com

13-Feb Horrible Histories So it’s time to prepare yourselves for a special production of Horrible Histories featuring more of your favourite characters from our barmy past – and a brand new scene with wordy Will! Broadway Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3DD. 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com

10-Feb Chinese New Year Culture Show Everyone is invited to welcome the Chinese Year of the Dog. A pre-

14-Feb Twelfth Night ‘Twelfth Night’ is a tale of unrequited love – hilarious and heartbreaking.

Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 15-16 Feb Dear Zoo This production will delight all those who have read the book (both young and old) as it unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 16-17 Feb Wizard of Oz In a brand-new adaptation of L Frank Baum’s ‘The Wizard of Oz’, the Oddsocks troupe invite you to meet Dorothy as you’ve never seen her before. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337. www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 17-Feb Griff Rhys Jones: Where Was I? Join the star of Not the Nine o’clock News, Smith & Jones and Three Men In A Boat as he airs stories, anecdotes, reminiscences and outright lies – from 40 years of travelling - down rivers and up mountains, into Africa, out of India, and across the arid wastes of the BBC canteen. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 17-Feb Morgan & West: More Magic For Kids Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West return to the stage with a brand new marvellous magic show full of crazy capers for the young, old, and everyone in-between! Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 17-Feb Mark Steel: Every Little Thing’s Gonna Be Alright Now the star of Radio 4’s Mark Steel’s in Town, and newspaper columnist of the year, is back on the road with a new show, guaranteed to make the world seem even more mental than it is. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500

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

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www.hertfordtheatre.com 21-Feb Reginald D Hunter During the 15 years in which he has lived in the UK, Reginald’s searingly honest material has garnered him a popular fan base that spans the generations. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 24-25 Feb Peppa Pig’s Adventure With lunch-boxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventure, full of games, laughter and live music! Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 28 Feb - 3 Mar Norma When a close-knit community’s way of life is threatened by unstoppable change, the people want war. Their priestess Norma, secretly in love with one of the enemy, resists. But now he has a new love. And in the face of his betrayal, it seems Norma is prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring HP23 5QY . www.courttheatre.co.uk MUSIC 8-Feb The Magic of The Beatles ‘The Magic of The Beatles’ is one of the UK’s leading Beatles tribute shows who play to ecstatic sell-out audiences all over the world. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 9-Feb The Simon & Garfunkel Story The Simon & Garfunkel Story is back! featuring a full live band performing all the hits including ‘Mrs Robinson’, ‘Cecilia’, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, ‘Homeward Bound’ and many more. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 10-Feb Sister Act Live Choir See the box office hit film Sister Act like never before, in HD, on a huge screen whilst a 25-piece gospel choir and band accompany the on-screen nuns, singing hit songs from the film’s original soundtrack live! Milton

Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 10-Feb Dr Feelgood Dr. Feelgood remains one of the most popular and exciting live rhythm and blues acts in the world. The Stables, Stockwell Lane , Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 14-Feb King for A Day: The Nat King Cole Story This thoughtful and entertaining new show takes a fresh look at the life and work of the timeless Nat King Cole whose vocal styling in songs such as Nature Boy, Unforgettable and When I Fall in Love defined a golden era of music and earned him a place in the history of American music as one of its most iconic vocalists. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 16-17 Feb That’ll Be The Day This latest production features a fantastic new-line-up of smash hits spanning the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus more side-splitting comic sketches, all performed live on-stage! The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage , SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 18-Feb Little Mix Experience This is a high-energy show from beginning to end, packed with all of Little Mix’s greatest hits and suitable for all ages! The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 30 Jan - 20 Feb John Rowlinson Piers from the sea, a coastal journey. Part One - Saltburn to Brighton. Hertford Theatre Gallery, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. www.hertfordtheatre.com 3 Feb - 3 Mar Members’ Themed Show: Environment The members display work based around a theme. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk

27 Feb - 25 Mar Jeanie Sondheimer & Oliver Smith Jeanie is a Hertford-based artist, mostly self-taught with a predominant interest in colour and texture. Her work includes land and seascapes. Oliver Smith recently graduated from Brighton University and is an experimental artist and designer exhibiting his latest illustrative ideas. Hertford Theatre Gallery, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS www.hertfordtheatre.com SPECIAL EVENTS 10-18 Feb Mayhem In The Mad Lab Come along February Half Term as Professor Nitrate kicks off 2018 with Mayhem in the Mad Lab! Join in daily between Fefor awesome activities and super cool science. As well as great activities there are interactive science shows with the Professor at 11.40am, 1.40pm and 3.40pm where children and adults alike can learn about the science behind things that go whizz, bang and boom – not to be missed! Royal Gunpowder Mills, Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JY. 01992 707 370 14-Feb Verulamium Museum Spotlight on History: The changing use of St Albans Town Hall This year, in the next stage of the building’s history, a new museum will be opened. Find out more about this fascinating building and see the latest behind-the-scenes photos of the fit out of the museum. Verulamium Museum, St Michael’s Street, St Albans. 01727 751810. www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 11-Feb The Little Hadham Village Hall Antiques Fair An established fair known for its wide range of quality antiques at reasonable prices. Open: 9.30am-4pm. Admission £1. Little Hadham Village Hall, Little Hadham, SG11 2BP 01279 503576 11-Feb Ware Vintage Fair 40 vintage dealers, a vintage cafe serving lovely hand made cakes. Live music, DJ and more. Open: 10.30am - 4pm. Admission £2, children free. Ware Drill Hall, 17 Amwell End, Ware, SG12 9HP

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From local businesses, restaurants, news and events we’ve got Valentine’s Day and Half Term covered! Follow @eastmagazines today!

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COMPETITIONS Our competition winner, Janet Johnston, shared a picture from her Paradise Wildlife Park mini zoo keeper experience prize! ‘Like’ our Facebook page for more fab prizes!

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