February 2015 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

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February 2015

Living life in the East

February 2015

Make the most of where you live Issue 117

LOVE IS IN THE AIR - VALENTINES - WEDDINGS

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JANUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015

Editor’s Letter Editor’s Letter

Dear Reader,

editor @ eastlife Publisher Publisher Sean Sean Thompson Thompson 01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com 01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com Publishing Publishing Consultant Consultant Paul Paul Gibson Gibson 01954 01954 268129 paul@eastmag.com 268129 paul@eastmag.com Editor Editor Emma Emma Kemsley Kemsley emma@eastmag.com emma@eastmag.com Production Production Manager Manager Craig Craig Lewis Lewis 01954 01954 268142 craig@eastmag.com 268142 craig@eastmag.com Sales Sales Manager Manager (South (South Norfolk, Norfolk, Suffolk Suffolk & & Essex) Essex) Darren Darren Marshall Marshall 07826 628680 darren@eastmag.com 07826 628680 darren@eastmag.com Sales Manager Area Manager (Cambridge) (Herts, Beds & North Norfolk) Katie Hawksworth Stewart Hedges 07939 07595 810535 894557 katie@eastmag.com stewart@eastmag.com Area Manager (Herts, Beds & North Norfolk) (Cambridgeshire & West Norfolk) Stewart Hedges Jim Leishman 07595 01954 894557 267635 stewart@eastmag.com jim@eastmag.com Area Manager ACCOUNTS/ENQUIRIES (Cambridgeshire & West Norfolk) 01954 268129 accounts@eastmag.com Jim Leishman 01954 267635 ads@eastmag.com jim@eastmag.com ADVERTISING HEAD OFFICE ACCOUNTS/ENQUIRIES Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, 01954 268129 accounts@eastmag.com Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY. ADVERTISING ads@eastmag.com HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY.

Happy New Year! January of course is a fresh start. The time of year we promise to become healthier and make the most of our life. I’m terrible at keeping resolutions and Dear Reader usually quit after a day or two. But, if unlike me you have actuallyhas realised posting exercise routines on Pinterest is Eastlife caught the love bug this issue and we’ve got not theofsame working check our ‘NewDay. Year, plenty ideasasfor you to out, impress thisout Valentine’s New You’ from pageand 19 where you’ll find gym From greatspecial first date venues romantic budgetinspiration, spa breaks, and fitness classes to help friendly getaways to giftdiets ideas and picking the perfect you say goodbye the turkey bulge. wine, we’ve got it to covered. Youthe may have alsowedding had timeseason over the festive break As 2015 spring gets started taketoa realiseofeverything you’d like and to change home. read our favourite trends venuesaround as well the as some If you’re thinking theofhome up or out or top shopping tipsof forextending the mother the bride. simply fancy an overhaul, take a look at our home exclusive on pagegot 85 –plenty tips, tricks andthe trends the UK’s Elsewhere, we’ve to keep kidsfrom entertained leading interior experts. hotspots and we’ll be supporting this half term, pancake the East of England during Fairtrade Fortnight with ideas Elsewhere we involved. have the latest on school open days, of how to get wedding fairs and some exciting arts news. It’s also a special month as we say hello to our latest team Don’t forget you can read more exclusive contentKatie! by member Katie Hawksworth - welcome to Eastlife downloading the Eastlife or by visiting Katie will be covering theApp Cambridge area and will be the main point of contact for all Cambridge advertising www.eastlife.co.uk enquiries.

Emma Kemsley

Remember, there’s lots more exclusive content available on the Eastlife app – download it for free now or keep up-to-date at www.eastlife.co.uk Have a great month Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter

/eastlifemag

Emma Kemsley

@eastmagazines

@eastlifemag

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

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eastlife.co.uk | 3

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705376-1_MBUK_VelvetMag.indd 1

05/01/2015 18:01

CONTENTS FEBRUARY FEATURES

NEWS 11

AROUND THE REGION - the region’s top stories

LIFESTYLE 19 25 26 30 35

DATE NIGHT - your guide to Valentine’s Day GIFT GUIDE - romantic treats for all THE PERFECT BOTTLE - how to impress with wine FUN FEBRUARY - half term events for everyone PANCAKE DAY - the best of the crepes

EDUCATION

41 43

EDUCATIONAL NEWS - the latest news EDUCATING ESSEX - the county’s best schools

FASHION

FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT Discover the region’s fairest retailers

SIGNS OF SPRING - winter to spring in style

59 62 67

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE - tips from the experts

75 77

PROPERTY - advice on how to sell your home

81 83

NEWS - the latest news from around the region

87 89

ARTS COLUMN - Collette Hoefkens

93 99

NORFOLK - listings and discovering Diss

WEDDINGS

VENUES - the region’s most romantic venues BEAUTY - how to get picture perfect skin

HOME & GARDEN

PICK A PAINT - this seasons shades

HEALTH SAY CHEESE - how to get the perfect smile

ARTS

WEDDING TRENDS

The hottest styles and decor for 2015

NEWS - the latest news and exhibitions

AREA FOCUS CAMBS - what’s on and a guide to Peterborough

107

ESSEX- things to do and exploring Saffron Walden

115

BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS - events, Olney and Newport Pagnell

127

INTERVIEW

The Mayor of Beccles shares the town’s secrets

123 130

SUFFOLK - theatre listings and Bungay THE SOCIAL SCENE - your comments and pictures

eastlife.co.uk | 5

W&M SMITH

W & M Smith have been in business for over 34 years and therefore has seen many Valentines Days come and go. Each year we try to find something different to entice our customers and this time round is no exception. A new range of red rose posies and wreaths have just come into stock along with red glass bud vases. Wicker hearts in natural, white, red, etc both open and closed as well as some new heart ribbons in various widths and finishes. So as per usual there are lots of new items to see in The Pightle Barn. Christmas stock is now away and with Valentines, Mothers Day, St Patricks Day and then Easter all coming in the next couple of months, the already huge range of stock will be increased yet again to mark these events. Some product ranges have

been gradually enlarged in particular the sugar craft accessories. We now stock a range of moulds, flavourings and also flavoured icing sugars. With the new Disney film, Frozen becoming more and more popular, we now have cake decorations of the characters and wafer cake plaques. To compliment this range you will also find napkins, cups and plates, balloons, party bags and activity sets all with the Frozen theme. Glass jars have become the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;in thingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; with weddings in mind, for table decorations, candle holders and also as favours when they are filled with jams, chutneys and sweets. The list of uses seems to grow all the time. We stock jars from as small as 1.5oz up to a 2 lb pickle jar with all sorts of variations on shapes and closures. Also available are

bottles and, as per normal, you will have a large choice! Brides now want a bouquet with a difference for that special day and brooches or buttons are being used instead of or as well flowers. Bouquet armatures for the ease of making these bouquets are stocked, along with various accessories to add that little bit of sparkle. The craft stock is also increasing. Decoupage papers and glue, letters both in MDF and cardboard, jewellery making sundries, paints for glass and porcelain, paint brushes, wooden beads and pegs, plaster of Paris, candle wicks and dyes, magnets, felt sheets, polystyrene shapes, mosaic tiles, sequins, glitter glue etc etc. The loom band craze continues and we are now offering discounts on these products as well as other clearance items.

For all those special occassions in your life... Visit our showroom for your floral artistry and craft needs.

Pightle Barn, Blacksmiths Lane, Middlewood Green, Stowmarket IP14 5EU

Artificial Flowers

Sugarcraft

Ribbons

Wicker Accessories

Open Monday & Thursday 10am - 7pm; Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10am - 5pm. Also selected Saturdays and Sundays 10 - 4 (please call to check)

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

GORDON CRAIG IN-HOUSE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS THE EASTER MUSICAL

Produced by special arrangement with DRAMATIC PUBLISHING Woodstock Illinois. Adapted by Joseph Robinette, music and lyrics by Charles Strouse

Gordon Craig Theatre In- House Productions presents the Easter Musical “Charlotte’s Web”. Based on the original novel by E.B. White this new musical version is the perfect Easter Treat. Join Wilbur, Fern and Charlotte at The Arables’ Farm where Wilbur learns about friendship, family and love. This Easter Musical will take you on a magical theatrical journey, with dazzling costumes and fantastic live music, written by the award winning Joseph Robinette, music and lyrics by Charles Strouse.

Name the Pig Competition The Gordon Craig Theatre has some very exciting news. In spring 2015 we have the fantastic opportunity of naming one of the new Willow’s Activity Farm Piglets – and we need your help! The lucky winner of this competition will win a family ticket to Charlotte’s Web for four people plus a family ticket for four to visit Willows Activity Farm, your own cuddly toy piglet and a signed programme for the show. We are looking for as many different names as possible. To enter this competition please submit your name, age and contact details, along with your chosen piglet name. There are two ways to send us your entrys. Either drop them in our special post box located at Box Office or email tanya.russell@stevenage-leisure.co.uk. The winner will be announced in March.

BOX OFFICE 01438 363200 ONLINE www.gordon-craig.co.uk

AROUND THE REGION

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AROUND THE REGION

Around the Region Latest News from

New opportunity to join award-winning choir for Festival commission

EastEnders’ Lucy Benjamin to star in ‘Deadly Murder’

The Norwich based choir who have performed at many international music festivals are recruiting new members for their new commission to be performed at this year’s Norfolk & Norwich Festival in May.

Audiences will know Lucy from her five years in EastEnders, where she played Lisa Fowler, for which she was nominated Most Popular Actress at the National Television Awards.

he Voice Project Choir, twice EDP People’s Choice winners at the Norfolk Arts Awards, are inviting anyone who would like to try singing to a no obligation taster session.

The details of the project are still under wraps but past Voice Project performances have been held at site specific locations such as Holkham Hall, Norwich City Hall, the Norfolk Broads and others – and another exciting venue is anticipated for this year’s, as yet untitled, performance. The choir is totally open access, there are no auditions and first timers are positively welcomed. The age range runs from 18 to 80 and the choir is created from beginners, experienced performers and everyone in between. There is a no commitment ‘taster’ evening on Tuesday 17 February at 7.30pm at The Friends Meeting House, Upper Goat Lane. Prospective singers can just turn up on the night or get further information and reserve a place at www.voiceproject.co.uk. After the taster session, rehearsals will take place each Tuesday up to the concerts in May.

he Queen’s Theatre, Essex, is thrilled to announce that Lucy Benjamin will star in its first production of 2015, Deadly Murder, from 30 January – 21 February.

Lucy will take the leading role of Camille Dargus in David Foley’s scintillating thriller Deadly Murder. She appears alongside repertory company member Sam Pay (playing Ted), who audiences will know from Godspell, The Great Gatsby and Sleeping Beauty; as well as new member Tom Oliver Cornish (playing Billy), who has appeared in the West End as well as on TV’s The Hollow Crown, Da Vinci’s Demons and EastEnders. Deadly Murder, directed by Simon Jessop, is full of twists and turns, bluffs and double bluffs. This brilliantly intricate thriller will be one step ahead of you all the way. Tickets priced from £16.50 Box Office: 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk For more events and things to do around the region visit www.eastlife.co.uk or follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines

Image credit: JMA PHOTOGRAPHY

eastlife.co.uk | 11

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AROUND THE REGION Macmillan Cycletta returns to Bedfordshire for 2015

Bring out the Lion in you and ROAR

he Cambridge Roar is back and is planning to be even bigger and better in 2015.

Doors will open even earlier this year with events planned from March through to July. A full programme will be available shortly. Roar will once again be committed to supporting The Prince’s Trust and will be supporting Cambridge based, The Arthur Rank Hospice Charity.

he popular Macmillan Cycletta cycle series returns to Woburn Abbey for the fourth time on Saturday 20 June, with a family-friendly day of activities planned. As with previous years, the event will include a 20km “novice” distance as well as 40km and 70km distances. Organisers are also planning an 8km traffic-free route for children, offering something for all ages.

The Cambridge Roar Chairman, Tony Murdock said “I am delighted for Roar 15 to partner The Arthur Rank, Help Our Hospice Campaign and we are all very excited to launch next year’s festival of events to raise as much as we can to help this fantastic local Charity.” The Cambridge Roar is an entertainment programme designed to raise awareness for these wonderful charities, whilst putting on a feast of shows, festivals and entertainment for the whole community.

Gentleman’s Grooming experience opens in Essex

The cycle routes wind through the picturesque Bedfordshire countryside on signed, smooth and safe roads, with friendly aid station and marshal support. The three distance choices accommodate all levels, for the novice, right through to the experienced cyclist. The heart of the event will be at Woburn Abbey itself, where there will be an assortment of activities available, for all members of the family. The women-only cycle sportives are set to move up to a different league next year as Macmillan Cycletta unveils its full 2015 line-up. The UK’s leading women-only sportive series will comprise 100km and 150km rides for the first time, as the Macmillan Cycletta series looks to engage more committed female cyclists. The next four events in the series will now comprise 50km, 100km and 150km rides. The longer rides will for the first time be positioned at more experienced riders looking to take on challenging sportive distances. But those four events will retain their appeal for first-time sportive riders with a 50km ride. Macmillan Cycletta organiser Human Race has also announced Early Bird and group discounts for the events series. Those who sign up as groups will be able to get five entries for the price of four. Entries are now open for the Macmillan Cycletta series at http://humanrace.co.uk/cycletta/

ailored and Groomed by Egalton Kemsley, located on Kings Road, Brentwood, Essex, is a one-stop shop for the modern day gentleman. A new concept for the barbering and tailoring genre, the business offers the opportunity for classic tailoring and male grooming services. A traditional wet shave service will be available from April 2015. A gentleman’s parlour as such, walk-ins are welcome for all barbering services, while tailoring is by appointment only. Tailored and Groomed is the latest venture by The Kemsley Barber Co in Bishop’s Stortford, Herts. Tel: 01277 200443 eastlife.co.uk | 13

AROUND THE REGION Putt your way to an ace at Luton Hoo Hotel’s Winter Course Challenge

Children Go Free at Bure Valley Railway

n Saturday 7 February luxury five star retreat Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa is inviting budding golfers to take part in their annual Winter Course Challenge. From 8.30am golfers and their families are invited to enjoy a pre-match breakfast including tea, coffee and delicious bacon rolls in The 19th Bar before teeing off at 9.00am. The 18-hole Winter Course Challenge will take players around the 7,107 yard championship golf course, which meanders through the hotel’s magnificent grounds. The full handicap stableford event is available to both members and nonmembers. Club Manager at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa, Mark Bierton, commented: “Our Winter Course Challenge proved extremely popular last year and I very much enjoyed watching all the golfing talent in and around the area. I encourage all golfers to come down and sign up as it is set to be a very entertaining day.” The Winter Course Challenge at Luton Hoo Hotel costs £10.00 per member, £20.00 per member’s guests and £40.00 per visitor. Tel: 01582 734437 www.lutonhoo.co.uk

he Teddy Bear Express at the Bure Valley Railway returns for the children’s half term holiday from 14 to 22 February. The Railway’s resident bear will take charge again at Aylsham Station to ensure nine days of fun for all the family. Trains will operate from both Aylsham and Wroxham stations three times per day. A children’s competition to see how many teddy bears can be spotted on the train journey, a colouring corner and a decorated Whilstlestop Café add to this teddy bear themed event. To make this truly a children’s event, the Railway is giving free travel to every child when accompanied by a fare-paying adult (maximum 2 children per adult). No prior booking required. Don’t forget to bring your own teddy so that the Railway Bear is not lonely! Tel: 01263 733858 www.bvrw.co.uk

Events at West Stow

f you have a keen explorer on your hands, keep them entertained this half term with a trip to Ring Quest at West Stow Anglo Saxon Village, from Saturday 14 to Sunday 22 February.

to West Stow Country Park, have a fascinating opportunity to watch experts catch, examine and ring a wide variety of birds that visit West Stow Country Park in winter.

On Saturday 22 February, 9am to 11.30am, visitors

Booking for the event is essential, places priced £5.

eastlife.co.uk | 15

Livewell Events 2015 LIFESTYLE & WELLBEING SHOW Celebrating the East of England's Finest for the Whole Family-FREE! Healthcare Lecturer & Holistic Health Specialist, Rachel Pernak-Brennon from LiveWell Events Ltd is organising an amazing event bringing THE finest Lifestyle & Wellbeing businesses together from the EAST of England in a FREE weekend of Stalls, Entertainment, Live interactive demonstrations, talks, fashion shows, Food & Wine tastings, Goodies Galore to buy, mini treatments & even a soft play zone to keep youngsters entertained. The Lifestyle & Wellbeing Show EAST is on

Saturday 9th - Sunday 10th May 2015 in the Grand Arena, Woodgreen, Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire. "the perfect venue for this fab event with capacity for 100 + stands, excellent facilities, wheelchair access, free parking, money paid for the venue is going to the animal charityâ&#x20AC;?. The arena features, Health & Fitness, Food & Drink, Homes & Gardens, Hair, Beauty & Fashion, KidsZone and a Talks & Demonstrations area where anything from Learning the Hair & Beauty secrets from the stars will be taking place (with the hair & make up artist from strictly) to interactive self defence demonstrations from the UK's number 1 self defence trainer!) Word has certainly got around about this event, as Rachel has been featured in the national site MojoMums as an Inspirational Mumpreneur, this is going to be a truly special weekend. If you would like to take part either as an exhibitor or a visitor, please visit

www.livewellevents.co.uk email info@livewellevents.co.uk or call the office on 07833 187701 for more information.

16 | eastlife.co.uk

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LIFESTYLE

Date Night

alentine’s Day is a great chance to impress a first date, rekindle a romance or make a grand romantic gesture. Whether you’re on a budget, are planning an extravagant evening or are thinking of popping the question, take a look at our picks for a night to remember...

First Date

If you’re looking to go all out this Valentine’s Day and really want to impress, how about a little trip to Paris? No not the city of baguettes and berets but Paris House, Bedfordshire’s only Michelin starred restaurant. Recently listed in the Top 50 Restaurants in the UK by the Waitrose Good Food Guide, Paris House makes a lasting impression. Located in the stunning 22 acre deer park of the Woburn Estate, the drive through herds of deer is the perfect way to start a romantic evening. On arrival you can relax with appetisers and a glass of bubbles before being seated. A six, eight and ten course tasting menu is available. Each dish offers the very best in natural flavours crafted using delicious seasonal produce and each is beautifully presented – a delight for the eye as well as the taste buds. Staff are attentive and willing to help with wine recommendations to accompany your meal.

For something extra special try dining at the chef’s table. Booking is essential, but if you’re not lucky enough to secure a table at Paris House this Valentine’s Day a visit at any time of year is highly recommended. If you’re looking to make the most of the beautiful Woburn Estate, the Woburn Hotel is offering a one and two night stay which features all the elements of a romantic getaway including flowers, chocolates and Champagne on arrival, Bucks Fizz breakfast, four course meal and free entry to Woburn Safari Park and Woburn Abbey Gardens. Prices start from £260 per stay. Paris House Woburn Park, Woburn, Bedford MK17 9QP. Tel: 01525 290692 Woburn Hotel, 1 George Street, Woburn, MK17 9PX Tel: 01525 290441

eastlife.co.uk | 19

LIFESTYLE

Sunset in Suffolk It may be a little chilly to start thinking about a trip to the beach but the scenic Suffolk coastline makes for a very romantic setting. There’s something magical about watching the sunset with your loved one and there’s nowhere more enchanting to watch the amber glow turn to dusk than on Southwold Pier. Watch as the skies around you turn to beautiful shades of pink and gold, bathing everything in a dreamy, seductive glow. Enjoy a delicious romantic meal served over the waves in the candlelit Boardwalk Restaurant. On 14 February the restaurant will be serving the ‘Food of Love’ with fresh fish on the menu and a decadent range of platters for you to share. Spoil yourselves with a loving spoonful of something sweet then escape to your own intimate spot along The Pier to embrace beneath the stars whilst the waves shimmer beneath your feet. 20| eastlife.co.uk

LIFESTYLE

City Break on a Budget We all know a city break can be pricey, but this Valentine’s Day with careful planning you can experience the city of Cambridge on a budget that will make you smile. Cambridge has so much to offer as a city. The colleges, chapels and historic streets make for fascinating walks while its parks and green spaces are perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics – fingers crossed for a sunny spring day. Midsummer Common is great for people watching. On this ancient area of grassland bordered by the River Cam, you can see the boathouses of the Colleges of the University and watch the rowers on the water. Punting is a favourite pastime in Cambridge. A punt costs between £20 to £30 but savings can be made if you opt for a group tour or book in advance. It’s a fun and romantic way to take in the sights of the city, not to mention a special way to propose! After exploring the city you’ll need somewhere to rest and where better than Cambridge University itself. For just £69.96 you can stay in the beautiful Westminster College located in the heart of the city. The 19th Century Grade II listed college affiliated to Cambridge University offers 38 recently refurbished bedrooms as well as two self contained fully furnished cottages on site. A full English or continental buffet breakfast is included in the rates of a room and is served in the College’s main dining hall. The quirky accommodation is bound to make an impression and the affordable price will leave you with more money to treat your loved one to a present or two. Book via UniversityRooms.com

Norfolk has the Love Bug Whether you’re an old romantic or Valentine’s Day scrooge that has been forced into the hype, Norfolk offers something for everyone. The overnight stays and weekend breaks available are endless. From secluded cottage hire and city chic breaks to grand hotels and boating on the Broads, you can opt for whatever floats your boat – quite literally too. You can be as extravagant or cost effective as you wish. Norwich has a selection of fine dining options, shops, theatres and attractions for those looking at no expense spared while the county’s stunning coastline and countryside lend itself perfectly for romantic hand-held strolls. You’ll also find a number of pamper packages available at the regions spas including Dunston Hall, Sprowston Manor and Barnham Broom.

eastlife.co.uk | 21

Buy a Valentines Gift Voucher for that Special Someone in your Life

Romans, Victorians, potters, industrial pioneers, soldiers, birds and bees - what will you discover?

FREE PARKING AND ADMISSION FOR ALL THE FAMILY ! Until 22 March, ‘On Show’ exhibition of art, textiles and jewellery, by the Hive Artist Studios for opening times

www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums Phone 01245 605700

COMING UP at the theatre royal Tues 10 − Fri 13 February

complicite

Middleground theatre company ltd

lionBoy

from the novels by Zizou corder, directed by Marcelo Dos Santos

Mon 2 − Sat 7 March

For everyone over

the BuSineSS of MurDer

by richard harris (a touch of frost, the avengers, the Sweeney and the last Detective)

Box office 01284 769505 Book online www.theatreroyal.org 22 | eastlife.co.uk

Join us on

Love yourself this Valentines

01473 258086

n ’ n o ow see e Sh s ‘A On e Th

’s BC B the w” on Sho n ne se e As The O “

Corporate Christmas Party & Gift Ideas Book now and make sure you don’t miss out

CAMBRIDGE’S FAVOURITE CHOCOLATE SHOP on a Chocolatey Christmas!

Chocolate making tastingfrom courses • Chocolate, wine & cocktail parties Original Gifts and&Treats £2.50 Corporate Gifts (same day delivery available)

We can tailor courses to suit your requirements from 12 to 80 people at a

central Cambridge locationfor or we can come to you. courses. Or for something different why don’t you give a voucher our chocolate

‘Perfect for team building, customer days and social events’

Learn how to make handmade chocolate truffles yourself, Giftand vouchers available. Courses start from £17.50 per person, gifts from even less! Please contact us to discuss your needs.

21 St Andrews St, Cambridge CB2 3AX | Tel 01223 778982 | www.chocolatchocolat.co.uk | info@chocolatchocolat.co.uk NTR February listing (Eastlife Magazine) 148.5x107 copy.qxp_norfolk journal Feb v5 14/01/2015 08:11 Page 1

FEBRUARY

21 St Andrews St, Cambridge CB2 3AX BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00| info@chocolatchocolat.co.uk Tel 01223 778982 | www.chocolatchocolat.co.uk

Mon 9 – Sat 14 Feb THE WOMAN IN BLACK Brilliantly effective, spine chilling drama £5.50 - £23.50

Mon 16 – Wed 18 Feb RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA La Fille mal gardée, Coppélia, Swan Lake from acclaimed ballet company £6.50 - £34.50

Sun 8 Feb 10CC I’m Not in Love, Dreadlock Holiday, Rubber Bullets, Donna and many more hits £6.50 - £34

Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

THEATRE STREET, NORWICH NR2 1RL

Thur 19 Feb JURASSIC ADVENTURES Dinosaurs come to life on stage in fun family show £7 - £16 Tues 24 – Sat 28 Feb THE ABSENCE OF WAR Reece Dinsdale stars in David Hare’s political drama £5.50 - £24

Edward Scissorhads

Tues 3 – Sat 7 Feb EDWARD SCISSORHANDS Matthew Bourne’s enchanting dance adaptation of Tim Burton’s modern fairytale £6.50 - £38.50

eastlife.co.uk | 23

VALENTINE’S FUN AT CLACTON FACTORY OUTLET A L L AC

T I V I T IE

FREE

Saturday 14th Feb 11am – 4pm Valentine’s Day Craft Workshop Decorate a heart shaped trinket box for someone special.

Thursday 19th Feb 11am – 4pm Feb Half Term Kiddy Cooking Class Have fun with this hands-on gastronomic experience. Advance bookings necessary.

For more information on our February Half Term events please contact us or visit us online 01255 479595 www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk

LIFESTYLE

Perfect for girls on the go – a make-up bag with rechargeable battery for your phone. Available at Storage, St Albans. Price: £50

The brand-new range of over ear headphones from Ted Baker is a must-have for all music lovers. Available at John Lewis, Grand Arcade, Cambridge. Price: £149.99 This heart ring by STORY by Kranz & Ziegler is guaranteed to make her smile. Available at Thurlow Champness And Son Ltd, Bury St Edmunds. Price: £95

Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be the same without new lingerie. Available at Elouise Lingerie, High Street, Buckden Price: Bra £89, Culotte £73

Make it a movie night to remember with this retro popcorn maker from Gourmet Gadgetry. Available at TK Maxx. Price: £24.95

Valentine’s Gift Guide

eastlife.co.uk | 25

LIFESTYLE

Romance, flowers and of course, wine L

ove is in the air and at this romantic time of year what better way to impress your partner than with a well-chosen bottle of wine? Wine connoisseur, Neil Bull, founder of the Essex Wine School, shares his secrets for finding the perfect bottle of plonk. A romantic meal either at home or at your favourite restaurant is the perfect way to show your love and admiration. To make the evening even more romantic I have chosen some wines to suit every budget that will compliment the food and to help Cupid work his magic. Bubbles To start the evening a special aperitif is required and what could be more special than a glass of sparkling wine? To make it even more romantic choose a rosé version. Champagne is the most famous sparkling wine. If price is not a problem then Veuve Clicquot La Grand Dame Rosé 1998 (Majestic £225) is the perfect choice. 26| eastlife.co.uk

The extra Pinot Noir gives both a subtle pink colour along with hints of raspberries and strawberries, it is both elegant and delicate. If your eyes are watering at that price point then how about an English sparkling wine? They are winning plaudits all over the world so try a bottle of Nyetimber, English sparkling Rosé wine (Waitrose £45), it is made in the same way as Champagne and is really delicious. Prosecco is a very popular, less expensive alternative to Champagne. Made slightly differently it is not matured for as long as Champagne and so retains more fruit flavours and has a really fresh taste to it. I prefer an extra dry version such as Treviso Extra Dry NV Pasqua (Majestic £11.99). Cava is often seen as the poor cousin in the sparkling wine world, which is a shame because there are some lovely versions around such as Cordorniu Rosado (Sainsbury’s £10).

LIFESTYLE

Fine fish Over the centuries certain foods have been considered aphrodisiacs whilst others are saved for more romantic moments because of their expense. Oysters fall into the first category and like them or love them they are actually quite difficult to pair with wine. Choose a cool, crisp Albarino (Martin Codax, 2013, Majestic £12.89) from Galicia, north-west Spain. Its distinct minerality pairs well with the metallic zing of the oysters. Caviar is the expensive option. It can be easy to overpower the subtlety of Caviar so choose a soft, slightly sweet sparkling wine such as Ruggeri Prosecco (thedrinkshop.com £19.87). Lobster is no longer prohibitively expensive and adds something special to any meal. If you are cooking at home how about a lobster or crab risotto? It is relatively easy to make and absolutely delicious. Pair it with a Chablis, (Philippe De Mery £11.99 or a Grand Cru 2013 Vocoreta £30 both at Majestic). A wine that I cannot get enough at the moment is Pinot Blanc. Choose one from Alsace (Kuhlmann-Platz 2013 Cave de Hunawihr £8.99 Majestic) as it is light, clean, crisp and very refreshing as well as being reasonably priced. If you have chosen a fish dish with lots of herbs then Austria’s signature wine, Gruner Veltliner (Weinzierlberg, Johann Mullner, Adnams £10.99) is an ideal choice. Spicy Asian and Indian dishes call out for an off-dry Vouvray (Chateau Moncontour, Demi Sec M&S £9.99) or if you like the more aromatic wine try a Gewürztraminer (Forrest Estate, Adnams £10.99), as it really helps to calm the spicy element of the food.

The dark side Truffles are expensive and are also considered an aphrodisiac. They go well with pasta, fish and steak. An aged Pinot Noir will complement the earthy, musty flavour of the truffle. (Bourgogne Pinot Noir £9.99 or Corton Grand Cru Clos des Marechaudes £55, both M&S) If the red meat dish has a rich sauce with it then a Malbec, (Vinalta Malbec M&S £7.99) Shiraz (Mattiske Road, Barossa M&S £16.99) or Cotes du Rhone (Les Galets Majestic £7.99) are powerful enough to stand up to the sauce whilst the tannin in the wine will cut through the fat content of the meat. Something sweet When it comes to dessert you need to choose a wine at least as sweet, if not sweeter than the food otherwise the wine will taste slightly bitter. Late harvest wines have more sugar and less water in the grapes from which they are made and can be very reasonably priced (Late harvest Chardonnay, Principe de Viana, Navarra Adnmas £11.99). For something really special try a wine where the grapes have been affected by Botrytis or noble rot. This gives the wine a beautiful, lingering flavour of marmalade and the sweetness is well-balanced by acidity (Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos £19,99 M&S). Whether you choose home cooking or a visit to your local restaurant I hope these suggestions will help to make your evening as perfect as it is romantic. Many of these wines will feature in the Essex Wine School’s courses and tastings. Visit www.essexwineschool.com for a list of forthcoming courses.

eastlife.co.uk | 27

01 East Life Easter 2015 QP_Layout 1 12/01/2015 15:47 Page 1

UFFORD PARK WOODBRIDGE

Easter Sunday Lunch & Children’s Easter Egg Hunt

Sunday 5th April Celebrate with a delicious meal ing rget to br Don’t fo dy! your ted

Half Term Week - February 14th - 22nd

arrive early & your children can enjoy activities* including an Easter egg hunt (between 10am & 12 noon) Pre-booking is essential * Free if you are joining us for Easter Sunday Lunch or join in the fun for just £2.50 per child up to the age of 14 years old. Under 5’s must be accompanied by an adult.

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

the

cambridge at

ass fair

Knebworth

SUNDAY 22 FEBRUARY KNEBWORTH HOUSE

SG1 2AX

10.30AM - 4.00PM ADMISSION £5

CAMBRIDGEGLASSFAIR.COM 28 | eastlife.co.uk

Jan runs regular watercolour workshops and weekly water colour, mixed media, line and wash courses in her studio at Leath Barn, West Somerton. Jan also organises annual Painting Holidays in Greece and Norfolk. Leath Barn, The Street, West Somerton Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR29 4EA 01493 393639 Email Jan: info@janblanch.co.uk www.janblanch.co.uk

LIFESTYLE

February

Fun

he half term is rapidly approaching, to help keep the kids entertained we’ve picked some of the region’s best events... It may feel as though they haven’t been back to school long but the February half term is almost here. With perhaps some bright spring days on the horizon (we hope), it’s a great to time to get out and about explore.

BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Enjoy the opening weekend at Lee Valley Park Farms followed by a week of fun in half term. Younger children will love making new friends at Lee Valley Park Farms, which will throw open its doors to visitors on Saturday 14 February. Brand new for 2015 is a new habitat for the cheeky Meerkat family, which has been designed to replicate their natural environment and allows visitors to get up close to watch them scamper around their new home. Hundreds of other animals await your arrival including sheep, pygmy goats, giant rabbits, rare breed pigs, long-necked llamas and birds of prey. There’s also a toboggan run and play areas as well as the Orchard Café serving fresh food. Adults £9.50, children/concessions £8.50, under 2s free. Lee Valley Park Farms, Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey EN9 2EF Tel: 08456 770 600 30| eastlife.co.uk

FASHION LIFESTYLE

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Pull on your wellies, wrap up tight and join in the fun as Sacrewell Farm and Activity Centre embraces the season and highlights the best of the winter including ferret racing, pancake day and a star party. On 17 February is Sacrewell’s pancake day where you can take part in a pancake trail to learn how to make a batter, have a go at flipping a pancake, and cover it in one of your favourite toppings and devour it at the café. On the evening of 21 February, look to the skies with Sacrewell and Peterborough Astronomical Society at their annual star party from 6pm – 9pm. There will also be a projector display, taking you on a tour of the universe and talks on some of the most exciting advances in astronomical sciences. Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE8 6HJ Tel: 01780 782254

SUFFOLK The New Wolsey Theatre is also getting ready for an exciting half term line-up in this February. On Sat 14 Feb, help Freda catch her own very special feather in The Feather Catcher. Using live music and beautiful projections, Filskit Theatre presents a fun, playful story of friendship, working together and mischievous feathers. Great for younger children aged 3+ with a chance to stay and play with the performers after the show. The sky is falling down on Mon 16 and Tue 17 Feb with Chicken Licken and all her friends. Mixed into this recipe of food, puppets and music is the story of Little Red Hen and the sly Foxy Loxy. Begin an adventure like no other on Thu 19 and Fri 20 Feb with Rosie’s Magic Horse. Ice-lolly mountains by the sea, caskets of gold, and scurvy pirates – it’s a heart-warming tale of aspiration, friendship, adventure and a little bit of mischief.

ESSEX Staying true to its Victorian heritage, stately home Audley End House and Gardens will host Victorian Games Galore from Monday 16 to Friday 20 February, 11am to 4pm. From skittles to quoits, croquet to chess, children can play like a Victorian as they step back in time. Discover games that time forgot. A great afternoon for the whole family to enjoy. Children priced £5.80, adults £9.60. London Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JF   Tel: 0870 333 1181

NORFOLK Amazona Zoo in Cromer is offering a special half term day out where families can explore and learn about a varied and fascinating selection of animals native to South America including some new resident creepy crawlies. As well as over 200 tropical animals and the wellequipped indoor play area Jungle Tumbles there are a number of exciting additions this year including a tarantula spider house, a cute South American guinea pig village and a bulb walk through seasonal snowdrops, daffodils and bluebells. Five different species of South American tarantulas will be housed in the tropical house providing visitors with a (safe, glass-protected) close-up view of these fascinating and extraordinary creatures. The guinea pig village will be inhabited by several families of short haired guinea pig, while The Bulb Walk has been planted to ensure that throughout spring and early summer there will be a show of flowers at the zoo. Half term visitors will walk through a carpet of snowdrops throughout the grounds as they tour the zoo. Amazona Zoo, Hall Lane, Cromer, Norfolk, NR27 9JG Tel: 01263 510741

Last in the week is the New Wolsey’s very own production When I Grow Up. Great for ages 8 to 10, it’s not just about choosing a job, it’s about working out what you’re good at and a little bit more about the kind of person you want to be. Adults are welcome in case they need a reminder too! New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS Box Office: 01473 295900

eastlife.co.uk | 31

Look up,

look down,

The Coll ection is look around! home to historic aircraft, vintage vehicles and mo torcycle s, and a

period S wiss

Garden

Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP

Don’t miss our activities for kids this half term at Shuttleworth. They’re ‘Out of this World’! 01767 627927

www.shuttleworth.org/events

Reg Charity No. 307534

East Life Feb 2015 HP.indd 1

Look up,

14/01/2015 12:23:45

look down,

look around!

Mother’s D ay in the Sw iss Garden - Sunday 15 March 2015

Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP

For a lovely Mother’s Day, treat your mum to a day out with delicious afternoon tea in our picturesque Swiss Garden on Sunday 15 March 2015. Book online or by telephone.

01767 627924 32 | Easteastlife.co.uk Life Mother's Day 2015 HP.indd

www.shuttleworth.org/events

Reg Charity No. 307534

23/01/2015 13:04:37

visit us at www.eastlife.co.uk

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LIFESTYLE

Frying Pans

at the Ready

It’s Pancake Day on Tuesday 17 February, but if your homemade attempt resembles scrambled egg, check out the region’s top crop of the crepes

he tradition of eating pancakes on Shrove Tuesday is nearly 1,000 years old and whether you prefer to beat your own batter or leave it to the professionals, it’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in something sweet.

We’ve picked our favourite pancake hotspots...

The Albatros, Wells-next-the-Sea For authentic pancakes at their best head to The Albatros, Wells-next-the-Sea. A quirky restaurant set in an 18th century North Sea sailing boat, which is permanently moored on the harbor quay, visitors can stop by for lunch, dinner or a drink. Captain Ton Brouwer runs a relaxed ship and dishes up a fabulous range of authentic Dutch pancakes. Receiving rave reviews on Trip Advisor, the sweet and savoury pancakes are a must try. The Albatros Wells, The Quay, Wells-next-theSea, NR23 1AT Tel: 07979 087228 Cambridge Crepes Located in the heart of the city centre on Sidney Street, Cambridge Crepes serve up delicious traditional French crepes. Choose from a selection of sweet or savoury fillings such as Nutella and fresh strawberries or egg and bacon. Each crepe is made to order and cooked in front of you on authentic French griddles. Cambridge Crepes is open daily until 5pm. Cambridge Crepes, Sidney Street, Cambridge Tel: 07708 432 782 Mario’s Place Hailed as one of the best places for breakfast in Essex, the family orientated cafe bar restaurant offer a fantastic menu that goes way beyond a full English. The highlight of this menu is the mouth-watering gluten free pancakes. With over 10 toppings to choose from such as delicious white Belgian chocolate and bacon and maple syrup, one might just not be enough! Mario’s Place, Tenpenny Hill, Thorrington, Colchester, CO7 8JG T: 01206 250700 eastlife.co.uk | 35

Discover what makes St Joseph’s Prep School feel different EYFS (Nursery & Reception): ‘Excellent’, OFSTED 2008 & ISI 2010, 2013 Infants and Juniors (Year 1 to Year 6): ‘Excellent’, ISI 2013

Prep School Open Afternoon Friday 6 March, 2pm Early Years Funding available for 15 hours of free education per week until a child turns five Experience for yourself the supportive, inclusive and aspirational environment that develops our pupils into well-rounded individuals who challenge themselves to be their best in every aspect of life at the school. Bursaries up to 100% and Scholarships available. Register today with our Admissions Team on 01473 694575 or admissions@stjos.co.uk

www.stjos.co.uk

The independent day and boarding school for girls and boys aged 3 to 18.

be your best

Fairtrade 240x168mm_Layout 1 19/01/2015 17:52 Page 1

invite you to a

FAIRTRADE

EVENING wednesday 25 feb

at 6.45pm - 9pm...

at quadrant 220 Moulsham St, Chelmsford CM2 0LS

TICKET

£6

Price includes Fairtrade curr y & dessert (from 6.45pm)

BOOK EARLY

HIGHLIGHTS... • Fairtrade talk by the • • •

Fairtrade Foundation Fairtrade brand Nomads mini fashion show Fairtrade wine tasting Fairtrade hamper raffle and more!

Tickets available from quadrant Customer Services (1st floor) or email: events@chelmsfordstar.coop to reserve your place!

LIFESTYLE

Fairtrade

Fortnight

The region’s retailers are coming together to help support Fairtrade A

s consumers we’ve become more and more inquisitive about the products we buy; where does it come from? What materials are used? How was it made? These are questions that are now being asked and which can apply to a multitude of items. Think Fairtrade and most of us will immediately think of coco beans and tea but it doesn’t stop there. Food is at the forefront but we now have the option of buying Fairtrade items such as clothes, bags, furniture and jewellery to name a few. With this the region’s retailers are jumping on board to help make the world a better place. To help gain national support the Fairtrade Foundation hosts its annual campaign Fairtrade Fortnight, which this year will run 23 February to 8 March. Simply put, Fairtrade promises a stable price for producers. They will receive prices that will always cover the cost of production and allow sustainable livelihoods, no matter how low the world price for their crops. Workers will receive decent working conditions and wages and whole communities will benefit from a social premium included in the Fairtrade price so producers can invest back into the community and business. Image credit: Fairtrade Foundation/Simon Rawles

38| eastlife.co.uk

A Fairtrade city Amanda Taylor of the Cambridge Fairtrade Steering Group told Eastlife about how the city of Cambridge is becoming a main player in Fairtrade. She said: “Fairtrade has become much more mainstream in the past ten years since Cambridge became a fairtrade city. At first, Fairtrade meant coffee, tea and chocolate. These are ‘a few of our favourite things’ but the movement has grown and these days the range of products that bear the Fairtrade mark is mind-boggling with everything from footballs to flowers. “Despite the general gloom on the high street, Fairtrade products are holding their own. Sales of Fairtrade chocolate, coffee, bananas and flowers have all showed a healthy growth in the past year, and several new Fairtrade schemes have been launched, including a Fairtrade Jeweller scheme for ethically sourced gold and silver. “Here in Cambridge, we have engaged with Fairtrade in a wide variety of ways. We have inspiring Fairtrade schools such as St Mary’s where girls raise funds by buying fair trade goodies in their snack bar; and Chesterton Community College, where the school uniform is proudly Fairtrade. Anglia Ruskin is a Fairtrade University, as are some colleges of the University of Cambridge. “You can enjoy Fairtrade food and drink at cafés such as the Fair Shares Café in Trumpington Street and the Green Coffee Company in the Guildhall and stock up on Fairtrade groceries at Daily Bread in King’s Hedges. You’ll find beautiful Fairtrade craftwork in Cambridge Market and one of the city’s premier local jewellers, Harriet Kelsall Jewellery Design, creates gorgeous bespoke jewellery from Fairtrade gold.    “But Cambridge is not alone – Fairtrade is flourishing throughout the Eastern Region. At the last count we had nearly 30 Fairtrade towns and cities from Wivenhoe to Wells-Next-TheSea, countless Fairtrade schools and places of

worship, and Fairtrade Dioceses including Ely and St Albans. “Fairtrade Fortnight will see a huge range of fun events – past events have included Valentine rose sales, fashion shows, wine-tastings, talks, banana breakfasts and bake-offs.” Amanda encourages everyone to join in and host their own Fairtrade event, be it at your school, place of work or organization. My fair jewellery Harriet Kelsall of Harriet Kelsall Jewellery Design discussed why she chooses to use Fairtrade materials: “We believe that we need to look after the world we live in. People need to be treated fairly and the environment needs to be protected. By using ethically sourced materials we can do our part to ensure that these things are happening. Something like an engagement ring is a big investment both financially and emotionally; making it environmentally responsible makes people feel even happier.” The jewellery designer is pleased to be able to spread the word. She added: “We are making more and more of our ready to wear rings in Fairtrade and recycled metals so that they are becoming a bigger part of our collection. By letting people know that Fairtrade metal exists when we talk to them we can also ‘convert’ customers who weren’t looking for it because they didn’t know it existed.” Whether you choose to hold an event or start to look at the where your weekly shop is sourced the smallest change can help make a difference.

eastlife.co.uk | 39

Bold Imaginative Reflective Three words to define your daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future. Add three more:

Open Morning Wednesday 11th March, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 | www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; School is part of The Harpur Trust

Fairstead House School & Nursery

OPEN MORNING

Tuesday 10th March 2015 www.fairsteadhouse.co.uk registrar@fairsteadhouse.co.uk Fairstead House School & Nursery Newmarket, CB8 7AA 40 | eastlife.co.uk

Inspired Learning

Give us a call

01604 765765

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

Open Day Friday 6 March 2015 9:30am - 12:00 noon www.northamptonhigh.gdst.net

EDUCATION

Education NEWS CAMBRIDGE LANDOWNER SUBMITS PLANS FOR WORLD’S FIRST PURPOSE BUILT AUTISM SCHOOL September 2016 and will be located in Chigwell, Essex. It is hoped that this school will be the first of many in the country - autism is a condition, which affects families across the UK and the number of people being diagnosed with autism continues to increase. Consequently there is also a need for a specialist school in the Cambridge area.

ong time supporter of the National Autistic Society and campaigner for better rights for people with autism, The Anderson Group (owners of land at Coldhams Lane in Cambridge) is delighted to announce that plans submitted for a new autism specialism school have been approved. Autism affects 1 in 100 children in the UK and this decision paves the way for the construction of a state of the art, 128 pupil capacity, world leading centre of excellence. The school, which has been designed by the National Autistic Society (NAS), will be completed by

The plans were submitted by the Anderson Foundation, the charitable arm of the Anderson Group, one of the largest construction companies in the South East. Mark Anderson, the company’s Chairman, said: “We have undertaken a lot of work with the National Autistic Society over the past five years. This includes fundraising and working together to build schools and facilities for children with autism. I feel it’s so important that we should do whatever we can to help children with autism - and their families – and give them the best possible education and life chances.” The Anderson NAS School will be the world’s first purpose built facility specifically designed to provide the best possible learning environment for people diagnosed with autism in the world. It will put the Anderson Foundation at the forefront of thinking in terms of how improvements can be made to the lives of people with autism, allowing them and their families to live more self-sufficient and fulfilling lives.

A family of exceptional schools Dame Bradbury School is now part of the exceptional Stephen Perse Foundation family of schools. With six schools across Cambridge, Madingley and Saffron Walden, the Stephen Perse Foundation is one of the most successful groups of independent schools in the UK and has a worldwide reputation for excellence and innovation.

Dame B’s has an exciting year ahead with brand new facilities including a fabulous library.

The five Cambridge and Madingley schools, when recently inspected were awarded the rare grading of ‘exceptional’ for achievement and learning. The ‘exceptional’ grade being even higher than the ‘excellent’ grade which is the maximum a school can achieve in every other aspect of the inspection. eastlife.co.uk | 41

Meet Lily She wants to be a vet. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to help her get there.

Friendsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; School SaffronWalden Working Open Morning - 11th March 2015, 9.30am www.friends.org.uk admissions@friends.org.uk 01799 525351

EDUCATION

The Best of

Essex Schools

Choosing the right school for your child can be a tough decision. To help make the process a little easier Eastlife has explored some of the best schools in Essex Colchester County High School for Girls

Friends School of Saffron Walden Located on the Cambridgeshire and Essex border, Friends’ School is a lively and caring community with one simple aim: to realise the potential and talent of all pupils within a friendly but challenging environment. There is a Senior, Junior and Nursery school on the same site, which allows for a seamless transition between the years. Achievement is valued in all aspects of school life, whether it is academic, dramatic, artistic, musical or sporting. When your child joins, he or she will have plenty of opportunities in all sorts of activities with the constant support of a community, which respects individuals, values achievement and broadens perspective. The School has an excellent record of achievement at both GCSE and A Level. Co-educational independent day and boarding school based on a Quaker foundation, it has a tradition of more than three hundred years of enlightened education, welcoming students of all faiths. 1 Mount Pleasant Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 3EB  Tel: 01799 525351

Colchester County High School for Girls is one of the highest performing state schools in the country. It offers a friendly, caring environment where you can enjoy your learning and take responsibility for yourself. The school has an outstanding academic tradition, within an innovative and well-structured environment, with an experienced and supportive staff. CCHS maintains strong links with the top universities and has a proven track record of strong A Level results. There are also further learning opportunities at its Sixth Form. Norman Way, Colchester CO3 3US   Tel: 01206 576973

St Michael’s School Leigh on Sea St. Michael’s is a warm and friendly Church of England Prep School for boys and girls aged from 3 - 11 where the foundation is laid, within a Christian framework, for a happy and successful life. The children’s educational experience at St. Michael’s provides a broad, balanced and firm foundation for learning and personal development. High expectations for all result in children becoming confident learners, making excellent progress across the curriculum thoroughly preparing them for their move to secondary school. 198 Hadleigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2LP Tel: 01702 478719

eastlife.co.uk | 43

St Mary's ad Eastlife Spring 2015 107mm h x 148mm w_Layout 1 04/12/2014 14:24 Page 1

‘Pupils develop as confident, talented and educated young women who are ready to make a difference in the world around them’ Independent Schools Inspectorate, 2014

St Mary’s School for Girls

To see our happy, high-achieving school for girls aged 3-16 (and boys aged 3-4), please contact our Registrar.

www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk

Project1_Layout 1 08/12/2014 14:19 Page 1

44 | eastlife.co.uk

01206 216420

Independent School of the Year*

*Stephen Perse Foundation, Independent School Awards 2014

Dame Bradbury’s is proud to be part of the Stephen Perse Foundation and shares the accolade of Independent School of the Year. Come for a tour of Dame B’s and experience the different aspects of life at the School as part of the Foundation Contact admissions@damebradburys.com

Dame Bradbury’s School A Stephen Perse Foundation School

01799 522348 | www.damebradburys.com EssexLifeFebruary2015 NEW.indd 1

12/12/2014 10:37:09

EDUCATION Felsted Preparatory School A leading co-educational, independent, boarding and day school in the East of England for pupils aged 4 to 18, the school focuses on core categories; social and personal development, academic development, physical development, creative development and global understanding. By exploring each of these, you will see how the different pathways develop through the school, from Reception through to the Sixth Form. Felsted, Essex, CM6 3LL Tel: 01371822600 Oxford House School Colchester

Dame Bradbury’s School and Kindergarten The school aims to find the best in every child, develop their confidence and prepare them for the future. The academic achievements include strong results and believe that high standards in the acquisition of skills and knowledge are learned through a carefully planned combination of high-quality, subject-based lessons and cross-curricular activities. Digital learning is strong and children are taught to think and reason. Ashdon Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 2AL Tel: 01799 522348

Founded in 1959, this intimate and exclusive school offers every child a complete education that puts a high emphasis on traditional values and the child centred learning of the Montessori Method. The school aims to understand and to develop the potential which all children possess and to send them on to senior schools as literate, numerate, well-mannered and happy individuals. The broad curriculum is enriched by encouraging a love for literature, languages, music, dance and drama. The school’s high success rate for pupils gaining places in selective state and independent school’s is excellent. 2–4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE Tel: 01206 576686

Maldon Court Preparatory School The Curriculum at Maldon Court Preparatory School has been devised so that all children can achieve to the very best of their ability and gain entry into the Senior Schools of their choice. All teachers have a curriculum responsibility and they keep abreast of developments in their area and introduce changes, which will benefit pupils when necessary. Whether in sport, music, drama or academics, pupils are encouraged to ‘have a go’. There are plenty of opportunities to excel at local, regional or national level and the school’s aim is to develop skills which pupils can go on to enjoy in adult life. Silver Street, Maldon, CM9 4QE Tel: 01621 853529 Gosfield School Gosfield School is an independent co-educational day school for ages 4-18. Set in superb grounds of 110 acres with an impressive sports hall and allweather sports field, they offer pupils the opportunity to excel academically and participate in a wide range of activities. The Prep School and the Senior School provide a rich and relevant learning environment in which young people can excel and flourish both academically and socially. The curriculum is designed to engage and challenge all learners, and pupils thrive in small classes with specialist teachers. Halstead Road, Gosfield, CO91PF Tel: 01787 474040

St Mary’s School Colchester With a long tradition of educating girls aged 4 to 16, St Mary’s gives girls a solid foundation on which to build their adult lives and to identify and achieve their aspiration. The Kindergarten is a superb introduction to education, while the Lower and Senior School is focused on academic education, with a wealth of opportunities to stretch each individual intellectually, creatively and physically. 91 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3RB Tel: 01206 572544 eastlife.co.uk | 47

NEW Advert 107X148mm AUG 14cp_Layout 1 14/08/2014 08:56 Page 1

St. Francis’ College Independent Boarding and Day School, for girls aged 3-18 years

From Kindergarten to Sixth Form St. Francis` College offers the best possible starting point for a happy, articulate, confident, engaging and successful young woman.

•

“The effectiveness of the • Fabulous extra-curricular Early Years Foundation opportunities in all Stage is outstanding” aspects of drama, music, ISI inspection dance, art and sports

OPEN DAY Saturday Saturday 25th April 4th October 10.00am 10.00am -12.30pm - 12.30pm

Consistently outstanding • “The standard of the GCSE and A Level pupils` personal results place us amongst development is excellent” ISI inspection the top schools in the country • Scholarships and bursaries are available

To pre-register for Open Day or to arrange a visit please email:

admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk or call 01462 670511 www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

Norwich High School GDST (3-18 years)

The best start for your daughter Junior and Senior Schools OPEN WEEK Monday 9th - Friday 13th March

48 | eastlife.co.uk

www.norwichhigh.gdst.net www.norwichhigh.gdst.net 01603 453265 01603 453265

Independent day school For girls and boys age 3 - 16

Join us for our Open Days Wednesday 4th February - 9:30am

Thursday 12th March

Oxford House School

5:30pm - 7:00pm

www.oxfordhouseschool.net • Montessori teaching methods

• Emphasis on academic achievement • Strong traditional values

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

• Music, dance and drama enrich the curriculum

OUR NEXT OPEN EVENING IS ON Thursday 12th March 2015 6.00pm – 8.30pm

To register your interest in our open evening, request a prospectus or to arrange a visit please call 01206 576686 2 - 4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE

Telephone - 01277 623070 E-mail - registrar@stjohnsschool.net www.stjohnsschool.net

St Michael’s

Church of England Preparatory School Co-ed for children aged 3-11 years of age

OPEN MORNINGS Friday, 27 th

February 2015

10.30 a.m-12 noon

Saturday, 28

February 2015

10.30 a.m-12.30 p.m

Registering now for

Nursery 2016 Limited spaces in

Year 3

for September 2015

Contact Admissions 01702 478719: admissions@stmichaelsschool.com www.stmichaelsschool.com eastlife.co.uk | 49

O VA D A

VALENTINES DAY

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Designer Fashion at Great Prices Quality pre-owned ladies fashion and designer labels at an affordable price

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The Dressing Room

We are open Tuesday - Friday 10am - 5pm Saturday 9.30am - 4.30pm 8 Sun Lane, Newmarket, CB8 8EW 01638 667778 www.thedressingroomnewmarket.co.uk 50 | eastlife.co.uk

FASHION

wardrobe Brighten up your

ith the New Year now in full swing, we can finally look ahead and start getting excited about the clothes we’ll be coveting next season.

Add a little seasonal colour to your outfit with this all-over beaded O-Summer Geo Bag. Price: £99, Nelle Norfolk, The Old Applestore, Drove Orchards, Thornham, PE36 6LS

February and March can always be a little tricky in the style stakes, will there be snow on the floor or will spring surprise us with a warm sunny day? Whatever Mother Nature decides we’ve selected our favourite transitional pieces to see you through winter to spring. A fedora is a spring must-have accessory. Price: £28, Miss Selfridge, High Chelmer, Chelmsford

This cosy knit from Sugarhill Boutique is perfect for coat free days. Price: £45 Cocos, High Street, Holt.

Keep the chill at bay with a beautiful patterned scarf from Becksondergaard. Price: £39 The Dressing Room, 6-8 High Street, St Albans

Be the first to snap us this stylish trench mac when it drops in stores this month. Price: £99 M&S, intu Chapelfield, Norwich

A brogue is the perfect finish to a tailored or casual look. Price: £145, Modish, 3 Green Street, Cambridge

eastlife.co.uk | 51

N aut

Tele Aberdeen N

New to Martha V This Season Veni Infantino Mother Of The Bride

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52 | eastlife.co.uk

Open Tuesday –Saturday

Veils

Please ring for an appointment

Tiaras & jewellery Bridesmaids dresses Bridal gowns Prom dresses

Comfortable surroundings Private appointments available

52 High Street, March, Cambridgeshire PE15 9JR 01354 650444 info@theweddingmarch.co.uk www.theweddingmarch.co.uk

info@shades-of-white.co.uk www.shades-of-white.co.uk

Sizes 14-36 Outfits for weddings and special occasions arriving every week. Also fabulous spring collections now in 14 School Road, Drayton, Norwich, Norfolk NR8 6DN

01603 866060

33 Bull Street, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6HP

01263 714040

Open 10am to 4 pm During January and February.

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st ives cam Bri dgesh i re, Pe27 5uw 01480 464774 mon day – satu rday 9:30 – 5:30

eastlife.co.uk | 53

Image courtesy of Ana Lui Photography

2015

THE

Wedding Wishlist East Anglian based, wedding planning extraordinaire, Katrina Otter, gives us the low down on this year’s hottest wedding trends

ver the past couple of years we have been fortunate to see some very dominate wedding trends emerge – mismatched bridesmaid dresses, floral crowns, naked cakes and the wedding hashtag to name a few. However this year has been an exception, which makes the task of predicting wedding trends for 2015 rather more difficult. So in addition to looking at emerging trends from international wedding blogs, I’ve also decided to look further afield at dominant and emerging trends in fashion, design, architecture and interiors. After all, these trends are often clear indicators of 54| eastlife.co.uk

what is likely to come in the world of weddings. Today, I’m sharing my top trend predictions for 2015 in the hope that they provide you with plenty of inspiration for your big day. WATERCOLOUR Watercolour has grabbed the attention of the wedding industry and inspired a whole host of creative DIY blog posts on how to emulate this trend. From watercolour invitations to soft-washed cakes and dipped napkins, there’s no denying that there are plenty of creative ways to incorporate this trend into your wedding day.

WEDDINGS

Image: Dottie Photography

ORGANIC & WILD GARDEN FLOWERS Throughout 2014 the ‘just-picked-from-thegarden’ look for floral arrangements and bridal bouquets was an increasingly popular trend. The great news is that it’s here to stay. Using freshly picked, organic and unstructured flowers will remain a huge trend, as will incorporating seasonal elements such as herbs, foliage and even fruits. FAUX FLOWERS Floral garlands are one way to add the real wow factor to your wedding. They can be used to create everything from statement tablescapes and ceremony backdrops to detailed defined cake tables and bars. If you’ve fallen in love with floral garlands but don’t necessarily have the budget or are marrying out of season then let me introduce you to Friend of Faux (www.friendoffaux.com). With blooms such as lilacs, roses, peonies and wild hedgerow touches for half the price of the real deal it’s easy to understand the industry buzz surrounding faux.

LIGHTING Of all the décor options, a well thought out and imaginative lighting design is the ultimate way to set the tone for your wedding. With couples allocating more of their budget to this design element expect to see increasingly creative and unique lighting designs in 2015 including festoon lighting, Edison bulbs, gobos, video mapping, chandeliers, neon, light boxes and an abundance of candles.

Image: The Sweet Hostess

Image: Dottie Photography

BRIGHT AND BOLD Moving on to colour and one HOT trend predication for 2015 is bright and bold. If you’re not afraid to take a risk and make a style statement then an edgy colour palette of hot neon pinks and warm oranges, underlined with crisp whites will certainly make your Big Day stand out for all the right reasons. COPPER & CONCRETE Copper and concrete are currently two of the most talked about interior trends. When it comes to this trend crossing over to the wedding industry this is where creativity and your imagination steps in. If you are fortunate enough to have the perfect industrially chic wedding venue with vast amounts of exposed concrete surfaces and copper pipes then you’ve pretty much incorporated this trend already. If you’re looking for a subtler way to add these earthy elements to your wedding then how about using copper and concrete as a base colour palette or on a design front think DIY candles, copper cutlery and copper foil invitations. LINENS Since the beginning of 2014 the number of companies in the UK that now offer fashion forward, embellished and textural linens has continued to grow. With an increasingly wider selection of linens now available (including pretty petals, black and white stripes, rosettes and sequins) expect to see couples becoming more creative with their tablescape designs. If you’re looking for inspiration in East Anglia then Gilded Linens (www.gildedlinens.com) have a fine event linen portfolio and will also shortly be re-locating to Suffolk. I really do hope you have enjoyed these predictions and good luck with all of your wedding plans and preparations. www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 55

The perfect place to say I do, I do, I do... Exclusive venue for ceremonies and receptions for 20 to 200 guests CanapĂŠs on the lawn, delicious food, dance till late with family and friends. Tattersalls will make your day memorable.

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info@fireworksdisplayteam.co.uk 56 | eastlife.co.uk

Tel +44(0) 1638 665931 corporate@tattersalls.com www.tattersalls-events.com

Tattersalls Events

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A gorgeous country house in the most romantic setting. Situated in 27 acres of picturesque gardens, Fanhams Hall Hotel is a Grade II listed Jacobean manor house offering a rare balance of relaxed comfort, informal surroundings and impeccable service. The house can be traced back to the 1400â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and with stunning original features, lakeside views, open fireplaces and tumbling waterfalls, Fanhams Hall is truly a match made in heaven.

PERSONAL AND BESPOKE WEDDINGS Fanhams Hall, an Exclusive Venue Fanhams Hall Road Ware Hertfordshire SG12 7PZ | tel. +44 (0) 1920 460 511 | www.ehvenues.com

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58 | eastlife.co.uk

WEDDINGS

Essential shopping tips for the

Mother of the Bride C

hoosing a mother of the bride outfit is a special experience that you’ll want to share with your daughter but where do you start? Eastlife headed to the High Street of Newmarket to get insider knowledge from the town’s leading fashion boutiques. Home to the famous Newmarket Racecourse and of course, some stunning wedding venues, it’s no surprise the town’s boutiques know a thing or two about dress shopping for special occasions. As the new spring/summer collections drop Martha Fraser, founder of Martha V, gave us an insight into the exciting changes for a 2015 mother of the bride. She said: “The dress and jacket combination continues to be the desired style although the new season introduces some new floaty styles with organza coats. “While the vintage theme is still popular and lace is a strong feature for mums, the 2015 colour palette is much softer - introducing delicate pinks and pastel blues. Nevertheless, the bright and bold trend is still strong with colours like turquoise and coral. And of course the classics black, white, navy and cream are still hugely popular for these occasions.” Martha’s three top tips for helping you shine on the special day? “You should start looking for an outfit as soon as possible,” she explained. “Secondly, to be confident you need to be comfortable but most

importantly aim to be the second most fabulous lady there!” There’s not just an on-trend look to consider, the style and location of the wedding can also have a major influence suggests Bev Beak, owner of The Dressing Room. “It will influence the outfit you choose,” she explained. “For a more formal wedding the dress code will be quite strict so no bare shoulders, too much cleavage or too short length. Trousers would probably be a no no too. Although it would depend on the couple getting married as even a formal wedding should reflect their personalities.” Again, Bev believes the key is to be comfortable, after all it’s a long day from start to finish. “Pick a length you are comfortable with and will be happy to wear all day and into the evening too,” advised Bev. “There is no need to spend a fortune on an outfit that you will probably be unable to wear to any other occasion. Visit a dress agency to source a good quality pre-owned outfit at a greatly reduced price. Think Carole Middleton in her duck blue outfit – Mother of the bride personified. Finish the outfit off with matching bag, shoes and jewellery. Consider hiring your headpiece. There is a hat or fascinator out there for everyone.”

eastlife.co.uk |59

01 Jan East Life Wedding Open Day 2015 HP_Layout 1 07/01/2015 16:00 Page 1

Wedding Open Day U F F O R D PA R K W O O D B R I D G E

Sunday 1st March 11:00am - 3:00pm The perfect chance to see our venue as it could be on your big day!

FREE ENTRY ALL WELCOME

This is a non-exhibitor event

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

60 | eastlife.co.uk

Everything you need to make your day special... just £55 per guest • Choice of arrival drink • 3 course meal with pre wedding taster • Wine on the table •A drink for the toast • Evening BBQ All you need to add is decorations and a DJ

01954 718383 www.bourngolfandleisure.co.uk Bourn LOGO A4 RUNOUT 2010.indd 1

22/01/2010 10:09

How to Pick the Perfect

Venue

ongratulations, you’re engaged! And now with the New Year already in full swing, there’s no more time to delay. It’s time to get planning. Sometimes the sheer volume of what goes into a wedding is daunting, but the key to success is to take the process one manageable step at a time.

The first step is to establish the tone of your day. What do you think your wedding will be like? Traditional or quirky? A huge showcase of an event or small family affair? These questions are important, as they will ultimately define what kind of venue, ceremony, décor and food you need to opt for. Browse pages of magazines and search the web for inspiration. Pinterest is a fabulous tool for wedding planning. Take a look at our pin-spiration at www.pinterest.com/eastlifemag Picking a venue is an important starting point. Is impressive period architecture something you dream of or perhaps something more low key and rustic? Maybe a big house in the country or waterside hotel is for you. The good news is that East Anglia is home to all of these things and more. Saturdays are the most popular day to get married for obvious reasons, as a result it is recommended you book at least 18 months in advance to avoid disappointment. Planning a wedding needn’t be as stressful as you might think. Most venues will have an in-house planner to assist you and help plan your big day to budget.

62| eastlife.co.uk

When it comes to choosing your venue the first thing to decide is location, location, location. Once set on an area, the fun can really begin. To help with your plans Eastlife put together its top picks for wedding venues around the region: Cambridgeshire Hotel Felix The beautiful boutique hotel makes for a city chic venue with its restaurant and bar, light, airy Orangery and spacious Terrace. Set in spacious grounds, the hotel has a statuesque Victorian Villa at its centre, providing a lovely backdrop for your wedding photos. Whitehouse Lane, Huntington Road, Cambridge CB3 0LX Tel: 01223 277977 Norfolk The Great Barn For a rustic and outdoorsy wedding The Great Barn at the heart of Manor Mews is the ideal location. The barn has been restored into a stunning venue using authentic materials and has a wonderfully rural and tranquil atmosphere. Large glass paneled doors lead out on to the picturesque courtyard and garden, ideal for pre-reception drinks and photo opportunities. Manor Mews, Tattersett, Kings Lynn, Norfolk PE31 8RS Tel: 01485 528508

WEDDINGS

The Sculpture Gallery at Woburn Estate, Beds

Herts Fanhams Hall Situated on the outskirts of Ware, this Jacobean Manor House combines glamour and style in a romantic setting - perfect for your wedding celebration. Secluded areas, cool and shady corners, tumbling waterfalls, enchanting walks, views over the terraces and an amazing Japanese Tea House within a Grade II listed garden create a spectacular area for photographs. Fanhams Hall Road, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 7PZ Tel: 01920 460511 Suffolk Ufford Park Woodbridge It’s historic, 120-acre parkland setting offers endless beautiful, natural photo opportunities, while elegant reception rooms and dedicated, friendly staff mean Ufford Park Woodbridge has everything to make your wedding day dreams come true. Ufford Park Golf Course, Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW Tel: 01394 383555

Beds Woburn Estate From the simplest intimate wedding, to the most elegant and sophisticated reception, Woburn offers three very different and distinctive venues. Couples can say their “I do’s” at The Sculpture Gallery, a majestic and elegant setting, The Woburn Hotel, located in the centre of Woburn village or the fun and quirky Safari Lodge at Woburn Safari Park, ideal for more informal wedding receptions. The Woburn Estate is holding a wedding fair on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 March. Woburn Abbey, Woburn, Bedfordshire, MK17 9WA Tel: 01525 292 172 Essex Wivenhoe House Weddings at Wivenhoe House are everything you’d expect of a glorious occasion in a splendid country house hotel. It’s an effortlessly beautiful wedding venue that will make for some memorable photographs. Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex, CO4 3SQ Tel: 01206 863666

eastlife.co.uk | 63

Say I Do in Stylish Contemporary Surroundings Set in tranquil grounds, a short drive from central Cambridge, Hotel Felix is a fusion of classic elegance and contemporary style and comfort. We pride ourselves on our impeccable service, seasonally-inspired award-winning food and stylish four star accommodation. • All-inclusive and bespoke wedding packages • Grounds for a marquee • Ample free parking • Licensed to hold Civil Ceremonies and Partnerships in our elegant first floor private rooms or Gazebo

Beautiful Unique Stylish l

HOTEL FELIX | WHITEHOUSE LANE | HUNTINGDON ROAD | CAMBRIDGE | CB3 0LX TEL: +44 01223 277977 EMAIL: wedding@hotelfelix.co.uk www.hotelfelix.co.uk

SAVE THE DATE Sunday 8th March 2015

Wedding Open Day. 11am-3pm-Free Entry Arrival Drink & Goody Bag *subject to availability

01728 452176 weddingplanner@thorpeness.co.uk www.thorpenesscountryclub.co.uk

Speak to a member of our dedicated team on the day for more information. FREE CAKE FOR YOUR WEDDING AT THORPENESS COUNTRY CLUB T&C’S: A £500 DEPOSIT MUST BE PAID WITHIN 14 DAYS OF THE OPEN DAY. WEDDING DAY DATE MUST BE PRIOR TO 31ST MARCH 2016 FOR THIS OFFER TO BE VALID. 64 | eastlife.co.uk

Priory Hall www.prioryhall.com Exclusively yours 01473 823185 | 07711 321907

UNIQUE COUNTRYHOUSE WEDDING VENUE

Splendid rooms for weddings small or large, combined with excellent customer service.

TOWN HALL

Where memories are made...

SSU W uNn Dd ed aAyY d 22 in nNdD g NFE Fa oBv ir eRm U A beR rY

Call 01206 506905 or visit www.colchester.gov.uk/specialday

Andy Fountain Photography, wwwandyfountainphotography.co.uk

Anna Pasquale Photography, www.annapasqualephotography.co.uk

A beautiful and historic venue in the heart of Huntingdon. Our bridal room adds that special something, for the For civil ceremonies, canapé receptions on the lawns or bridal party in preparations for a civil ceremony and the terraces, delicate vintage afternoon tea receptions to lavish new couple’s use for photographs or an intimate moment to sit down wedding breakfast in our Library. Make your take in your wedding day. day personalised to your requirements, A beautiful and historic venue inspecial the heart of huntingdon. Ourhaving bridalasroom adds that special something, for the use of We offer a team of chefs, whom will liaise and discuss your much or as little as you want bridal party in preparation forplus a civil ceremony. forwhom the new requirements, meetings with theOr team will look From civil ceremonies, canapé receptions terraces, couple taking intimate moment in their day. your every needto fortake not only your wedding wedding but also Our rooms on canthe holdlawns between 30 to 120 guests for sit down,an after we can alsotoofflavish er a variety of options from buffets, canapés in the important lead up to your day. Our attention to delicate vintage afternoon tea receptions sit down detail and personalised service to each individual and Hog roasts and exclusivity to this beautiful venue. wedding breakfast in our library. Make your special day Our attention to detail and personalized service to each indi-couple is second to none, and nothing is too much trouble to ensure personalized to your requirements, as much or as little vidual couple is second to none. Nowhaving under new management with extensive experience everything is perfect. as you want. of wedding planning, offering food and wine tastings, plus Offering packages starting for both food beverages, but also the services of our resident toastmaster, whom We will offerassist out of season packages fromand £4500 all incluworking your budget suit requirements if you couple ensuring your day is as formal Each wedding is bespoke to our each couple on in their special day, siveorofinformal venue hire, drinkswith reception and towedding breakfast. require something more personalised to yourselves. as you expect it to be.

where nothing is too much trouble, our venue is exclusive to each wedding on the day.

Our additional service of a non obligation free quote with one of our team is also an option, to help in the planning of the For more information anyimportant of our day services, please contact: of your life. As a team we have extensive experience of wedding planning, aboutmost offering food and wine tastings, plus the services of our resident Donna 01480 420 538 Lynn 01480 375 678 www.hhpac.co.uk toastmaster, whom will assist each couple in ensuring your day is everything you hoped it would be and more.

For more information about any of our services, please contact: Teri 01480 420 538 Lynn 01480 375 678 www.hhpac.co.uk hle@hinchbk.cambs.sch.uk

66 | eastlife.co.uk

WEDDINGS

Beautiful Bridal Skin Y

ou may have everything planned to the last detail but what about your skin? Have you prepared it for its big moment in the spotlight? In the lead up to your wedding day it is a given that at some point you’re going to be stressed but all that stress can play havoc on your complexion. The last thing any bride wants her big day is a break out of spots or tired dull skin. To help ensure you look picture perfect when you say “I Do”, Helen Ambrosen, co-founder and product inventor at Lush gave her expect advice and beauty tips for the big day. “I think the best thing to do is to look at yourself totally, mind and body, because occasions like this can be very stressful,” said Helen. “It’s really good to be aware of how your mind is working because stress shows in your face. I would suggest lots of relaxation, exercise and even meditation, you really can’t start this regime soon enough. It’s good to get into good habits, sleep well, drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet.” Helen advises to start thinking about your skin between four to six months before your wedding so your skin can get used to any new treatment or products you any start using. It can also take time to put a new beauty regime in place so a skin consultation is highly recommended. “Cleansing is key, if you cleanse, tone, moisturise and get it right, this will help keep your skin looking and feeling healthy,” added Helen. “If you have difficult skin you must not neglect it, if you do this problems will occur. It’s really important to establish a good skin care routine and maintain it. “Hugely important is not to overdo it. Don’t hate your skin, as sometimes this can make things worse as you will use stronger products. It’s better to avoid exfoliating over pimples. Make sure you tend to and look after every area of your face. When cleaning your face everyday, we can sometimes forget certain areas such as under the jaw line, in-between your eyebrows and the bridge of your nose.”

Should the worst happen and the dreaded pimple from every bride’s nightmares makes an appearance Helen recommends having a good cleanser at hand. Use a gentle cleanser such as Ultrabland cleanser (£7.25/ 45g). “ When people have a pimple they tend to use a stronger cleanser, which sometimes makes the problem worse and cause even more spots. If you do have a spot on the day, the best thing to do is to use a face mask,” advised Helen. “Don’t put it all over the face, just on the pimple itself. If you don’t have Lush’s Mask of Magnaminty, use some honey instead, this will very gently dehydrate the spot and soothe it.” Put a simple skin routine in place and you’ll soon have beautiful plump skin with even tones for your big day. For more top tips download the Eastlife app or visit www.eastlife.co.uk eastlife.co.uk |67

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CONSUMER

Martin Lewis Beep, Beep - how to get the best price for YOUR car insurance

ar insurance prices have fallen 40% over the past two years, according to the AA. But with a rise in fraudulent claims, its latest index predicts an increase of up to 8% in 2015; others think 10% is possible. So to help you drive down costs, let me answer your most common questions… Q. Is this only something you can do if you’re at renewal? A. No, everyone should be checking their price right now, even if you only signed up to a new deal a few months ago. Unless you’ve claimed, you can usually cancel a policy for a fee of around £50 and get a refund for the rest of the year (though you won’t earn no claims for that year). Q. My renewals only six weeks away, should I just wait? A. It’s likely if you did try and cancel and get a new policy now, the cancellation fee will diminish any savings – so that’s a bit futile. Yet there is another trick – www.aviva.co.uk, www.postoffice.co.uk and www.lv.com quotes last 60 days, so why not grab them now and you’re effectively locking in those prices in case they rise in the meantime. Q. Are the savings that great? Can’t you just autorenew? A. Never just auto-renew without checking elsewhere, often it just lets insurers smack a price rise on you, as it knows apathy means many will keep paying more and more. Q. So it’s just a question of getting on a comparison site? A. That’s the route many use, but there are steps to really kick it up. It’s important to understand that there’s no one cheapest provider, so it’s a case of following a system. Never just do one comparison,

you need a benchmark of a few comparisons to find out where’s cheapest. There’s a system to follow fully explained at www.mse.me/carinsurance. In a nutshell… •Combine comparison sites. They don’t all cover the same insurers, so combining a number of sites is the best way to really make a meaningful saving. •Check insurers that comparisons miss. Comparison sites let you compare 100s of insurers quickly but they don’t capture the entire market. •More than one car at home? Comparison sites can only cope with one car at once so don’t include multi-car discounts. Therefore you should always manually check those that offer it. •Difficult to insure? Use a broker. If you’ve difficult circumstances that make getting insurance difficult, a comparison site is less likely to help as these are mainly focused on ‘normal’ policies. Q. So it’s all pretty straightforward? A. Adding a responsible second driver can cut your costs. This can bring down your risk average and price, of course, it must be someone who may drive your car. Beware paying monthly. A monthly payment plan for your insurance is essentially a high-interest loan. So either pay in full, or if you can’t afford it, use a credit card with a lower APR or better still, a 0% credit card for spending, ensuring your repayments are big enough to clear it within a year. Q. And any special tips for young drivers? A. With the average premium for a 17-22-year-old at an eye-watering £1,194 per year, young car drivers can be priced out all the techniques above will help, but if you’re not getting there, check ‘pay how you drive’ (telematics) this involves a device being fitted inside your car that monitors your actions behind the wheel. eastlife.co.uk | 71

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22/01/2013 09:04

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HOME & GARDEN

Why now is the time to put your house on the market

pring always comes out on top as the best time to sell, but savvy homeowners should be thinking about marketing their home now to beat the competition. The start of the year is a time when most people are back at work after Christmas and will start to browse the web for inspiration on their next big move. Serious sellers will have their home online and marketed early to ensure they don’t miss this audience. Cameron Ewer from Strutt & Parker’s Cambridge office explains: “Motivated sellers should be first to the post for the early Spring market and now isn’t too early. Now the festive season is over, solicitors and estate agents are back at their desks and eager buyers who might have struggled to secure a deal at the end of last year are lying in wait. Marketing your home now could be a very canny move, especially when there is a lack of stock on the market to allow your property to really stand out.”

Launching a property now will mean beating the spring rush; traditionally a season when many choose to put their house onto the open market. Often waiting for those pictureperfect moments when the sun is out and blossom is on the trees can mean that sellers are missing out on potential buyers. Historically as the property market becomes saturated in the spring and summer dominated by high supply and high demand, this can mean you’re simply one of many, many houses for sale. Instead, by selling in a period of high demand but low supply, this can often mean that you are one of few, standing out from the crowd and with less risk of getting lost in a market overload later in the year. Ewer continues, “January is when people start to think about the year ahead, and looking back some of the best sales have taken place in the New Year, often in January, February or March.”

eastlife.co.uk | 75

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HOME & GARDEN

The Colours of

Spring F

ebruary is a great time of year to embrace the fresh tones of spring. If you’ve been thinking about giving your home a new look there’s never been a better time as some of the UK’s leading home décor brands launch their new colour collections. From shades of grey to warm blues and a shimmer of metallic, the colour charts are shining bright. If you’ve purchased more testers than you can bear and are still undecided, Claire O’Brien, head of design at British Ceramic Tile has lent a helping hand to make the decision a little easier. Here, she explore this seasons hottest shades:

Shades of Grey Grey is still a huge influence on interior design schemes. The difference from last year is the shade of grey is now cooler, and multiple tones are used together to create a layering effect. It is a strong foundation for adding colour flashes and contrasting highlights. Guilty Pleasure Metallic colour palettes are strong for 2015. Colours range from burnished gold, beaten copper and worn pewter. They are understated, aged and distressed rather than brash and new – most have an integral surface to them, which when used in larger areas creates comfort through texture. True blue Blue is still big for 2015. Influences are numerous for true blue – tie dye batik, heritage tableware designs from the potteries and the modern interpretations of decorative dining, the prevalence of beach house living trend and the overwhelming desire for us to feel at one with nature. Mid century This is a combination of colours, which were prevalent in the 1950s, but all with a muted slightly greyed off feel; chartreuse, burnt orange, grey, warm brown, teal green and petrol blue. The muted, slightly dulled tones of this colour palette sit together perfectly with a classic retro feel.

eastlife.co.uk | 77

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78 | eastlife.co.uk

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HEALTH

Healthy Living It’s never too late to learn to swim

ambridge City Council in partnership with GLL is rolling out a new programme of older adult swimming classes. The swimming classes will be held at the Abbey Pool and the Kings Hedges Learner Pool Cambridge. The Older Adults Swim Programme consists of weekly swimming lessons run over fourteen weeks and will cater for older adults, sixty years and over that either can’t swim or who lack confidence in the water, as well as swimmers who want to improve their swimming technique.

Foster carers named in New Year’s Honours

wo foster carers who have been recognised in the New Year’s Honours List for Services to Children and Families hope to offer inspiration to potential carers in Cambridgeshire to consider a career in foster care. Ian and Linda Greener from Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, have both been awarded MBE’s for their 20 years dedication to fostering over which time they’ve fostered more than 100 young people. The fostering heroes, who work with Foster Care Associates (FCA) were nominated by two of the young people they have fostered throughout the years.

The classes will be led by experienced and ASA level 2 swim instructors and will be limited to a maximum of five people per class. Each block of fourteen-week lessons costs £35. The classes, which are subsidised by Cambridge City Council, are open to both men and women who are City residents and pay Council Tax to Cambridge City Council. To give people an opportunity to try out the swim classes, there will be a number of free taster sessions running at both the Abbey and Kings Hedges pools. Abbey Pool: 01223 213352 Kings Hedges: 01223 353248

Wendy Edgell, FCA’s registered manager in Cambridgeshire said: “Foster carers are often the unsung heroes of children’s services, but the work they do can make a profound and positive difference to the lives of children in their care. We hope that this prestigious honour will help to inspire potential future carers in Cambridgeshire to consider this rewarding and lifechanging career.” From the very beginning FCA provides on-going support to all of its carers, throughout the UK and is dedicated to providing all the advice they need to make a positive impact on the children they look after. According to a recent report from the Department of Education there are more than 500 children in local authority care in Cambridgeshire. Foster Care Associates want to hear from potential foster families who are keen to make a difference and provide a safe and stable home to young people in the region in 2015. Tel: 0800 023 4561 www.thefca.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 81

• CYCLES • TOYS • MODELS • DIY • CRAFT

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The Best Kept secrets are kept within

Special thanks to John Foley Images @ Imagine Gallery If you would like to add your village to our framework, you could be live within 48 hours, villages also benefit For more information contact Paul Moreton on 01787 312817 from a complimentary back office system so Parish Councils can exchange information in real time. insidesuffolk.com A whole newshop, world ofcall marketing. To promote your independant Suffolk boutique please Paul Moreton on 01787 315055. 82 | eastlife.co.uk

HEALTH

Smile Brighter Teeth whitening made easy

t’s estimated that more than 100,000 people in Britain tried tooth-whitening treatments last year. If you’ve always toyed with the idea but never been brave enough to go for it, you may be pleasantly surprised to hear that it’s now more affordable and easier than ever before to achieve a beaming smile.

abrasiveness and bleach, making it suitable for everyday use. The toothpastes also help protect and maintain your teeth by combatting bad breath, tartar build up, stains and debris to also help protect against gum disease. However, regularly flossing your teeth is the most natural and affordable way of keeping your teeth clean and white.

If you have a special event this year or perhaps you are one of the many brides eager to perfect her smile for the big day there are now a number of oral hygiene products available that are safe and affordable.

Density expert Dr. Dawn Harper of DenTek says: “There are so many health benefits surrounding good oral hygiene. The regular use of flossing has a beneficial effect on the whole family. Just a few small steps as part of your everyday routine can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing, without blowing the budget.”

With every bride it is their desire to have the perfect smile on the day, which will be captured in the wedding pictures and cherished for years to come, long after the gloss of the marriage has worn off. To achieve a whiter smile doesn’t necessarily mean blowing your wedding budget on costly cosmetic procedures. By simply using a good whitening toothpaste in the run up to your wedding, you can achieve a brighter, whiter smile. Beverly Hills Formulas Perfect White range of whitening toothpastes is an affordable way to maintain clean, whiter teeth with no need for

There’s also the simple method of detoxing your teeth, not just your body. Red wine, curries, tea and coffee can all stain your teeth, so try cutting these out. If you have a special event to attend choosing the right shade of lipstick can make a difference. Consider using a blue based red lipstick, which will make your teeth appear whiter. Another trick is to use red food colouring and spread across your gums - make-up artists swear by it!

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Are you in interested in working  as part of a team? 

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and Bank

                    This is a very opportunity for competent registered nurses           exciting       to develop their surgical nursing skills. You will be working on                 our                      

inpatient ward and will be working closely with consultants. We  are looking for staff with a positive attitude to develop and  expand their nursing skills. You will need to be innovative,   forward thinking, have worked on a surgical ward, have excellent    communication skills and work closely with the multidisciplinary   team to guarantee that the service runs effectively.  

                                     

We are also looking for an experienced nurse to work within a                   multidisciplinary team to provide high standards of effective                    clinical care for our wide range of Outpatients. You will support our      while   out   Outpatient        expert consultants they  carry consultations                            and minor procedures. Meanwhile you will monitor and maintain               safe, clean and therapeutic environment for patients, staff and  a  visitors. You will also be responsible for maintaining accurate   patient records.                                 In return we offer Private Medical Insurance, Pension, Bonus    scheme, Life Assurance and 25 days paid holiday. 

   

To find out more and apply   for these positions click on jobs at www.spirehealthcare.com    or for more information please contact  the HR department on 01223 266960   



 Trinity.indd 1

Trinity.indd 1

23/01/2014 14:45

The Paddocks Care Home ●

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Lincoln House Care Home

Residential Care

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Nursing Care

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Dementia Care

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Respite Care and short breaks

The Mayfields Care Home

Residential Care

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Nursing Care

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Respite Care and short breaks

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NEWLY REFURBISHED ROOMS NOW AVAILABLE

Residential Care Nursing Care Dementia Care Respite Care and short breaks

Please call us for further information or to arrange a visit

Call 01760 722920

Call 01362 637598

Call 01508 535500

The Paddocks Care Home 45 Cley Road. Swaffham. Norfolk. PE37 7NP.

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e usic presents th rie with Aldeburgh M DanceEastcc&essful Snape Dances se oM dance hugely su eGor | rand

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ARTS

The Arts Scene

Winter Fields by Martin Laurance

Evening Sea by Martin Laurance

Written by Collette Hoefkens 51 Norton Way, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 1BH. Tel: 01462 685139

ebruary can be one of the cruellest and coldest months with its freezing winds and a tease of early spring. All the more reason to take refuge and solace in one of our wonderful regional art galleries. My choice this month has to be the superb Mandell’s Gallery, Norwich, Norfolk. From the 18 January until the 14 February you can catch the exciting and dynamic work of landscape artist Martin Laurance. Having already hosted two very successful solo shows for Martin, the gallery is delighted to be welcoming him once again with his latest collection. With a strong emphasis on the Norfolk Coast there are over 35 powerful new landscapes, immediately recognisable through their charged compositions and palette. Whether fired with colour or brooding in monochrome, each work is a porthole to a world alive with potency and energy. Converging lines and blocks of colour rush and merge to convey scenes of rural decline, change and regeneration. These arresting paintings command the viewer to perceive and experience both the physical substance and the spirit of the land and witness mans interaction with it. Understanding and personal knowledge of his subject, the landscape is paramount to Martin and gathered from years of walking and sketch-

ing the chosen locations in different seasons. Using sketchbooks and loose pieces of paper he records sensations, colours, structure and form, from nature. Taking these findings back to his studio he starts to build and create work that is an honest reflection of these personal experiences. Working expressively with mixed media Martin combines oil, acrylic, collage, ink and watercolour in various combinations on both canvas and paper. He has no set formula but as a true artist allows this subject to dictate its own requirements to him. “In my paintings I try to convey the spirit and reality of a place. Going beyond the immediate sensation to something felt and experienced,” says Martin Laurence. So as always, wrap up warm and brave those elements. Pop along to the Mandell’s Gallery and experience the landscape from a new and inspiring view. Martin Laurance 18 January – 14 February Mandell’s Gallery, Elm Hill, Norwich, Norfolk NR3 1HN Tel: 01603 626892 www.mandellsgallery.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 87

NEW - 2015 Course Brochure

Gainsborough’s House

Gainsborough’s House is the childhood home of

Thomas Gainsborough RA (1727-1788) and displays an outstanding collection of his paintings, drawings and prints. A varied programme of temporary exhibitions is also shown throughout the year. The historic house dates back to the 16th century and has an attractive walled garden.

Groups welcome Open daily: 10am to 5pm (Sundays 11am to 5pm) Gainsborough’s House, 46 Gainsborough Street, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2EU 01787 372958 |mail@gainsborough.org www.gainsborough.org Registered Charity number: 214046

88 | eastlife.co.uk

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Come in and see us for all your knitting, crochet, cross stitch, tapestry, haberdashery needs. Relax and enjoy your past time with like minded people at one of our crafty clubs or brush up your skills or learn something new. We will be running workshops from February : Beginners Knitting , Beginners Crochet, Toe Up Socks , Circular Knitting for more details telephone 01462612889. OPENING TIMES Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9.30 am - 5.00 pm Thursday 9.30 am - 3.00 pm Friday & Saturday 9.30 am - 5.00 pm

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ARTS

ARTS from

Around the Region ‘Cambridge Rules’ public art set to be recommended

Former X Factor contestants take to the stage

proposed artwork by Neville Gabie and Alan Ward to commemorate the role of Parker’s Piece as the birthplace of the ‘Cambridge Rules,’ which helped establish the modern game of football is set to be commissioned. Following a public consultation by Cambridge City Council on proposals by four artists, a report to the Community Services Scrutiny Committee is recommending that Gabie and Ward’s initial concept, ‘Written in stone – interpreted worldwide – brought back to Cambridge’, is now developed further. During the consultation ‘Written in stone – interpreted worldwide – brought back to Cambridge’ received more support from the public responding than the other artwork proposals by Kenny Hunter, Nayan Kulkarni and Mark Titchner.

et ready for double the X Factor and double the fun this February as Marcus Collins joins fellow X-contestant Lloyd Daniels for 2015 in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Marcus will step into the role of narrator alongside Lloyd’s Joseph live at Watford Colosseum for one week only from Tuesday 10 February to Saturday 14 February. The show also sees the welcome return of Matt Lapinskas who will be donning his Elvis outfit once more to reprise the role of the Pharaoh. Best known for playing Anthony Moon in BBC EastEnders, Matt was also runner up in the penultimate series of Dancing on Ice. He joined the Joseph cast in 2014 for the UK, making his first musical theatre role. This colourful retelling of the biblical story about Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours sings out to young and old alike with a score which is crammed wall to wall with hits – including ‘Jacob and Sons’, ‘Close Every Door’ and ‘Any Dream Will Do’. Having garnered sensational reviews and standing ovations at every performance since its inception almost 35 years ago, Bill Kenwright’s production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical bursts onto the Watford stage live in February.

The council assessed the four concept proposals against the initial artist brief and the criteria contained in the brief. It then considered the results of the public consultation alongside responses from the Public Art Panel. The proposal by Gabie and Ward that is due to be selected to take forward will incorporate a large granite block inscribed with the Cambridge Rules in various languages, which will be cut into nine equal blocks. The central piece will stay on Parker’s Piece, while the other eight will be sent as ‘gifts’ to worldwide locations tracing pioneering stories where football took root.  In exchange, an interactive website, will be inviting that global audience to share through photography, video and audio, their own experiences of where they play; the goalposts, pitches, spectators’ benches and other details including reading the rules in as many different languages as possible – creating a worldwide visibility for the original rules and Parker’s Piece. This material will then be used as the basis for a multimedia outdoor exhibition on Parker’s Piece celebrating this world heritage with its roots in Cambridge.

Box office: 0845 075 3993

eastlife.co.uk | 89

ets

Russian State Ballet and Orchestra of Siberia

hree of the world’s best-known ballets are taking to the Norwich Theatre Royal stage in a winter triple bill of classic dance. The Russian State Ballet and Orchestra of Siberia return to the city fresh from a hugely successful 2014 visit to perform three more productions from their growing repertoire. Their visit begins on Monday 16 February with a performance of La Fille mal gardée, which is one of the oldest ballets still actively performed around the world. A masterpiece of comedy, it tells the story of a farm boy who is trying to persuade a very flirty farmer’s daughter to fall in love with him. The gentle story features ribbons, romance and rivalry, and is a must-see for fans of classic ballet. The air of simplicity and innocence of the ballet captures the imagination of audiences and it also features a wide range of ballet styles from the traditional pas de deux through to set-pieces with a maypole and a scene with the performers in clogs. The following day, Delibes’ very lively score comes to life in the classic ballet Coppélia with performances at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Perfect for all ages, it tells the story of the eccentric toymaker Dr Coppelius who creates a very lifelike doll who comes between the mischievous Swanilda and the emotional Franz who wants to woo her. Completing the Norwich 2015 repertoire will be arguably the most romantic ballet of all time Swan Lake, which takes to the stage at 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Wednesday 18 February. Tchaikovsky’s evergreen score brings the emotional love story to life. Watch out for the glorious balletic set-pieces in the ornate Palace ballroom and the haunting beauty of the swans gliding on the moon-lit lake. Box Office: 01603 63 00 00

90| eastlife.co.uk

February at the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Festival f

icking off February is the brilliant Lionboy from the award-winning Complicite, showing 10-13 February. It tells the tale of Charlie Ashanti, a normal boy except for one thing, he can talk to cats. If you are looking to celebrate Valentine’s weekend in style then get in the mood with the wonderful Nick Ross Orchestra who pay tribute to the Sounds of the Glenn Miller Era – the Big Band sound of the 1940s on 15 February. With a full line-up of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, a rhythm section and top singers to transport you back to the 1940s. There will be prizes for the best dressed in the audience too. For younger theatre-goers, the ever-popular Goldilocks and the Three Bears comes to the theatre on 19 and 20 February. The bears only go out for a stroll but when they return the house is a mess and Baby Bear’s porridge has vanished completely. On 21 February Robin’s Winter Adventure is about a young boy’s incredible adventure with a feathered friend and is a tale of change, bravery and friendship told with puppetry, poetry and music. For those who love the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, you won’t want to miss Big Girls Don’t Cry celebrating such hits as Walk Like a Man, Sherry and many more on 21 February. Stella is a story of women, their men and astronomy, showing on 25 to 26 February and introduces us to two women astronomers, Jessica Bell from the 21st Century and Caroline Herschel from the 18th Century. Wrapping up the month is The Only Way Is Downton on 27 February, where Luke Kempner’s oneman homage to the popular television show has won critical acclaim and sold out at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe. For tickets and further details please call the Box Office on 01284 769505 or visit www.theatreroyal.org

ARTS An Artist’s Life

he Gallery at Parndon Mill will host colourful paintings and screenprints by Anthony Cleyndert, complemented by ceramics by Ruta Bartkeviciute, until 22 February. While most of the paintings in this exhibition were produced during the last twelve months, Anthony frequently returns to paintings and prints he has made over the years, adding new touches and ideas. This exhibition represents much of his working life as an artist.

Her work includes interesting references to European folk art. The Gallery at Parndon Mill, Off Elizabeth Way, Harlow, Essex CM20 2HP Tel: 01279 426042

Ruta is from Lithuania and now works in Hertford where she is gaining a reputation for her fine craftsmanship in earthenware decorated with colourful glazes. Three exhibitions at The Minories Gallery

he Minories Gallery, Colchester has kicked off the year with three exhibitions.

Coco Crampton: Handles on Romance & Other Girls also Common Tongue, available until 7 March, is a tripartite exhibition exploring themes including feminism, socialism, craft, functional design and the fine arts through displays of ceramics, appropriated imagery, and new and re-imagined objects. Clare Sams: Knitting Fever will be available until 21 February. In 2009 floodwater caused the wool from the shop ‘Knitting Fever’ in Cockermouth to spill out into the town. Clare presents a knitted recreation of the scene of devastation. Finally, Colne and Colchester Branch of the Embroiderers’ Guild, a display in the Garden Corridor and Café of a range of textile arts produced by members of the Colne and Colchester

branch of The Embroiderer’s Guild along with a selection of The Minories Galleries curator’s collection of tapestries will be available to view until 3 April. Many of the works are for sale. The Minories Galleries, 74 High Street, Colchester, Essex CO1 1UE Tel: 01206 712237

Sea Stacks & Vienna Ditto play Beach Sessions

n Saturday 7 February, Beach Sessions presents an exciting line up of original music in the beautiful Waterbeach Baptist Chapel. London-based Sea Stacks combine orchestral instrumentations to create wind and string-strafed indie music that produces spine-tingling moments of beauty interwoven with a distinctly dark, sinister tone of lyrics. Following a string of singles, including the critically acclaimed “The High Tide”, Sea Stacks are currently working on their first full-length album. Coheadlining is Oxford-based Voodoo sci-fi blues duo Vienna Ditto. Tickets priced £8 adults, £4 (14 – 17 year olds) Waterbeach Baptist Chapel, Chapel Street, Waterbeach, CB25 9HR Tel: 01223 862494 eastlife.co.uk | 91

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NORFOLK

What’s on in

Norfolk

THEATRE & SHOWS 3-7 Feb Edward Scissorhands Based on the classic Tim Burton movie, this touching and witty love story tells the bittersweet tale of a boy left alone and unfinished in a strange new world. It is a parable for our times about the ultimate outsider. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 4-7 Feb Jack the Ripper ‘Jack the Ripper’ does not centre on the gory and violent murders but rather focuses on the deprived and hopeless existence of the inhabitants of Whitechapel - lives spent in squalor, filth, in-fighting and prostitution where murders were not uncommon and one of the only escapes was through alcohol. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 5-7 Feb The Little Shop of Horrors Seymour is a young man who works in a flower store. He manages to create a carnivorous plant that feeds on human flesh. Nobody knows about it - so Seymour and the plant become good ‘friends’. The plant needs food to grow up - so it convinces him to start killing people. Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens Gorleston, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 7-Feb The Only Way is Downton As modern celebrities start appearing at Downton Abbey, cultures clash and eras hilariously collide in this brilliant new parody, which takes in many other popular TV shows and familiar voices to help the cast of Downton save the estate from financial ruin – again. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB.01603 598598 7-Feb Arthur’s Dream Boat A magical playful children’s show with breath-taking puppets, so enchanting that everyone will want to sail away with Arthur in his dream boat. Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss, IP22 4LB. 01379 652241 9-14 Feb A Woman in Black A gripping theatrical exploration of terror, that’s been thrilling audiences of all ages with its unique blend of suspense, drama and bold stagecraft. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 11-Feb Grounded This extraordinary play targets our

EDITOR’S CHOICE

tears” (Edinburgh Evening News). Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 16-Feb Hansel and Gretel With succulent music and film, puppets and masks, Horse + Bamboo have baked up a delicious treat of a show – dark, chewy and delicious at heart, yet coated with a sprinkle of something light, sweet and zesty. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Whitefriars, Norwich, NR3 1TN. 01603 629921

Mind Body Spirit Exhibition Swaffham Saturday 14th February 10am - 4pm or something a little different or to de-stress, visit The Swaffham Assembly Rooms Mind Body Spirit Exhibition. It will host stalls of Mediums, card readers, holistic therapies and beautiful spiritual gifts. This event will once again feature wonderful spiritual healers to help ease those stresses away. As with all events held here, there will be lovely delicious homemade cakes and savouries plus delightful snacks to enjoy all day. This all day event is central to the town, with the doors opening at 10am. So why not come down and enjoy a day of pampering? Entry is free. The Assembly Rooms, Market Place, Swaffham, PE37 7QH www.spiritualflowevents.com

assumptions about war, family and what it is to be a woman. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 12-Feb Fascinating Aida Expect topical new songs hot off the press, plus some outrageous old favourites, as ‘Fascinating Aïda’ continue to grow old disgracefully. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 14-Feb Paul Foot His subversive, insightful absurdity constantly challenges and delights his faithful connoisseurs, leaving “your sides sore and your face wet with

19-Feb Jurassic Adventures ‘Jurassic Adventures’ is a brand new production, set on a magical island, where anything might happen, with a brave cast of amazing actors, a great fun script, superb scenery and of course Dinosaurs. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 20-Feb The Chuckles of Oz Audiences will get a glimpse into the Emerald City in a show packed with all the ingredients that make for a family fun packed show including audience participation, laugh–out–loud comedy and spectacular sets and costumes and special effects. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 21-Feb The Dragon’s Tale Musical accompaniment is provided by the equally world-weary Damsel in Distress playing the hurdy-gurdy. Children will love the knockabout nonsense and adults will appreciate the the hidden layer about growing old together. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Whitefriars, Norwich, NR3 1TN. 01603 629921 22-Feb Sing-a-long Frozen It’s the most popular comedy-adventure to hit the big screen this year and with the fairydust of Singalonga added, you are guaranteed a great time. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 28-Feb Casting the Runes ‘Casting the Runes’ is a fresh take on the writer’s most famous story, following scholar and sceptic Edward Dunning, whose life becomes a waking nightmare when he crosses paths with the enigmatic Mr. Karswell. Our advice? Don’t go alone. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-theSea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193

eastlife.co.uk |93

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

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Antiques with Clocks & Watches th

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

Antiques with Collectors & Militaria 10th & 11th February 14th & 15th April 16th & 17th June 11th & 12th August 6th & 7th October

Wine Sales 20th May 26th November

East Anglian Art 13th March (pm) 27th November

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

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

Country Sale

Ornithology

Every Monday (Tuesday after a Bank Holiday)

Picture & Prints

Commercial & Deadstock Sale

4th September

6th February 10th April 8th May 3rd July 2nd October

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

Important Summer Sale of Fine Paintings 7th August

Classic Car Sale Date to be announced

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NORFOLK MUSIC 3-Feb Bity Booker With her songwriting style Bity Booker weaves elements of folk, pop and psychedelic whimsy to create brilliant self-penned songs. The Bicycle Shop, 17 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, NR2 4PE. 01603 625777 6-Feb The Will Pound Band Twice nominated for prestigious Musician of the Year at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, Will Pound although only 25, has long been in demand as a harmonica wizard, playing with the likes of legendary folk guitarist Martin Simpson, Sam Carter and Jim Moray. Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss, IP22 4LB. 01379 652241 7-Feb False Lights New band ‘False Lights’ is the brainchild of finger-style guitar genius and singer-songwriter Sam Carter and folk revolutionary Jim Moray. Norwich Arts Centre, 51 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 7-Feb The Blues Brothers Experience ‘The Blues Brothers Experience’ recreates all the iconic atmosphere of a live performance of The Blues Brothers King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 9-Feb Norwich Jazz Club Join in the Redwell Maddermarket Theatre Bar for its monthly jam session, where guest performers are invited to sit in with the house trio. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 11-Feb Crown The Empire Armed with The Fallout, the band’s recent full-length debut, ‘Crown The Empire’ are bringing a high-energy, visually stimulating and thematically engaging side to post-hardcore, that’s already created a massive buzz for the still-embryonic outfit. The Waterfront, 139-141 King Street, Norwich, NR1 1QH 01603 632717 12-Feb 1930s Evening David Rees and Julie Hewitt invite you to sip a cocktail, sample the canapes, and step back in time to the vivacious and flirtatious Thirties, in a sophisticated soiree of song from the greats of the era. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 14-Feb Claude Bourbon The Monsieur Bourbon is a formidable performer. He may have his roots in the blues, but he is inspired by music and song from all around the world, taking these sounds and weaving them into a performance of blues, rock, jazz, songs and melodies that defy a label, all delivered with a

gravely voice. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 14-Feb Rumours of Fleetwood Mac ‘Rumours of Fleetwood Mac’ return with a production celebrating the music of the legendary rock supergroup Fleetwood Mac. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 14-Feb St Valentine’s Day Rock & Blues Massacre John Otway headlines a full-on evening of rock and blues with more than a dash of mayhem! In a rare appearance featuring his full band. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 21-Feb Kenny Ball Junior and his Jazzmen The band, still featuring a number of founding and long-time members, is stronger than ever - creating a storm the world over with their superb musicianship and commitment to keeping the tradition of the Kenny Ball sound alive. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 22-Feb Chris Barber Band Chris Barber OBE, this year celebrates his Diamond Jubilee as leader of his band on a full-time professional basis. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 28-Feb Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Drawing on the wealth of peculiar episodes from both ‘Adventures in Wonderland’ and ‘Through the Looking Glass’, Box Tale Soup invite you down the rabbit hole into a timeless world of beautiful paper puppets and wondrous fantasy. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 28-Feb Secret Love – The Life and Music of Doris Day To celebrate the 90th birthday of Hollywood icon Doris Day, acclaimed jazz singer & West End actress Claudia Morris returns with this critically acclaimed show dedicated to her idol. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 31 Jan-19 Apr Homage to Manet at Norwich Castle The major loan exhibition explores the influence of one of the most important and controversial artists of modern times, the French artist Édouard Manet (1832-1883) and includes work by Édouard Manet, Claude Monet, John Singer Sargent, Philip Wilson Steer and more. Norwich Castle Museum, & Art Gallery, Castle Meadow, Norwich, NR1 3JU. 01603 493649

1 Feb-1 Mar Henri Matisse Sculpture: The Backs These monumental works are now recognised as a group and were made over a period of twenty years as he progressively refined the original pose of a model with raised arm. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 593199 7-Feb Workshop: Dry Pointprints A chance to create a series of small drypoint prints in response to some of the themes in the Louise Bourgeois exhibition. This workshop, led by Nick Sampson, will explore the potential of this simple and direct printing technique. It will be suitable for beginners and those with some printmaking experience. Kings Lynn Arts Centre, 29 King Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1HA. 01553 779095 14 Feb-11 Mar Jane Human/Sam Hall Paintings of landscape using monoprint techniques by Jane Human. Handbuilt ceramics by Cornish potter Sam Hall. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 20 Feb Lisa Smith Workshop If you have enjoyed the Fermoy Foyer showcase, come to the Arts Centre to learn an effective paper engineering technique where you can use recyclable paper to create a range of bowls, sculptures and artworks. Kings Lynn Arts Centre, 29 King Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1HA. 01553 779095 25-Feb Helen MacDonald - Literary Festival Spring 2015 This is nature writing at its most expressive, encompassing memory, nature and nation, and the idea of how it might be possible to try to reconcile death with life and love. Helen Macdonald is a writer, poet, illustrator, historian and Cambridge academic. UEA Campus, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 456161 SPECIAL EVENTS 10-Feb Stamp, Coin and Other Collectables Advisory Day Warwick and Warwick, the leading stamp, coin and collectables auctioneers, will be visiting the area shortly. It will be pleased to advise on the sale of stamps, coins, banknotes, postcards and more. Imperial Hotel, North Drive, Great Yarmouth, NR30 1EQ. 01926 499 031 22-Feb Swaffham Arts Andrea Holland, accomplished poet, author and creative writing tutor, presents “Poems of Breckland.” Swaffham Assembly Rooms, Market Place, Swaffham, PE37 7DQ. 01366 328648

eastlife.co.uk | 95

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DISS

delightful market town offering a charming mix of history and culture

Lying in the valley of the River Waveney, Diss has a rich history dating back to the Domesday Book; a market began to flourish over 500 years ago and continues to grow today. The area has gone from strength to strength and is now recognised as a leading Norfolk market town.

Diss Corn Hall is a hub for entertainment. It hosts a number of theatre, dance, music, comedy and art exhibitions throughout the year. The events calendar is well worth checking before you visit. For the latest events at Diss Corn Hall turn to page 93 or visit www.eastlife.co.uk

Attractions With a steep history it comes as no surprise that Diss is home to a number of historic attractions and museums. Those interested in WW2 should head to the 100th Bomb Group Memorial Museum on Common Road. Housed in the original airfield control tower and other atmospheric buildings the museum is a moving testament to the Americans who came to Thorpe Abbotts in Norfolk to fight alongside the allies during World War Two.

For something a little different head to Wingfield Barns which offers art exhibitions, concerts, drama, cinema, education, training sessions and much more. Richard Digance will exhibit his solo exhibition at the barns from 28 March to 10 April. At the heart of the town is Diss Mere. Popular with tourists and residents the lake and parkland are great for a gentle stroll, for simply sitting back and watching the world go by or for keeping

the kids entertained. There is a play area, opportunities to feed the ducks and a cafĂŠ is open during the summer months. Shoppers can a visit an eclectic mix of shops and are often accompanied by music from local buskers. The shops are arranged around four courtyards, so you will soon be able to associate specific shops within each, all amid superb Georgian and Edwardian buildings. Food & drink Throughout Diss youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a number of independent restaurants and warm welcoming pubs. With its exposed beams and brickwork The Fair View Restaurant at Fair Green is great for hearty dishes while the Weavers Wine Bar & Eating House is also a popular choice.

eastlife.co.uk | 97

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

What’s on in

Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 3-4 Feb My Dog’s Got No Nose Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, sometimes poignant and often laughout-loud hilarious, he shares his soul reminiscing about his early career as a furniture-salesman-turned-photographer, love, marriage and ambitions. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough PE11EF. 01733 207239 3-7 Feb Racing Demon ‘Racing Demon’ follows a group of vicars in inner-city London struggling to come to terms with the modern world. People no longer trust their way of life, and scandal is never too far away from them. Corpus Playroom, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 300085 4-7 Feb Henry V ‘Henry V’ provides a glimpse of England’s past military glories without shrinking away from the brutal realities of war. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 5-Feb Lee Hurst Things That Make You Go Aaarggh In this stand up show, comedian Lee Hurst is back on the road to ask audiences what winds them up? Mostly people get on with living their lives, but everyone has at least one thing that gets on their nerves and makes their blood boil. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 7-Feb Mouthy Poets On Tour Diverse young voices birth a truthful show about how love, relationships, politics, gender and everything in between make us stronger beings. This show will change your perceptions of what poetry is. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 9-Feb Hatch Hatch is back, showcasing scratch performances of new dramatic and poetic works in progress from the hotbed of Cambridge literary talent. Corpus Playroom, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 300085

EDITOR’S CHOICE

married couple become trapped in a bizarre world controlled by sound. Corpus Playroom, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 300085 15-Feb Romeo and Juliet Filmed live on Broadway and starring the British actor Orlando Bloom and two-time Tony Award nominee Condola Rashad, this dazzling new production of Romeo and Juliet is a modern take on one of Shakespeare’s best-loved plays. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239

Ely Cathedral Sparkling Valentine’s Concert Saturday 14 February 7:30pm reat your loved one to a concert of stirring romantic classical music in the beautiful setting of Ely Cathedral, with one of the country’s most outstanding pianists joined by stunning International Guest Soprano, Susan Parkes. This year’s programme offers an enticing mix of romantic indulgence and popular classics to pull at the heartstrings on this most romantic of evenings, plus a glass of complimentary bubbly, by the glow of candlelight. Price: £20. Tel: 01353 660349 Ely Cathedral, The Gallery, Ely

16-Feb Playland Athol Fugard is one of the world’s most performed living playwrights, and a fearless chronicler of South Africa and its troubled history. ‘Playland’ is one of his most personal and rarely performed plays; gripping, comic and deeply moving. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT . 0845 196 2320

12-14 Feb Sweeney Todd In a dynamic and murderous duo with widow pie shop owner Mrs Lovett, Sweeney Todd will exact his revenge on those he believes responsible for turning his world upside down. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320

17-Feb Jimmy Carr - Funny Business ‘Funny Business’ is Jimmy’s brand new stand up show. Come for the witty and incisive musings on the human condition; stay for the knob gags. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705

12-13 Feb Dylan Moran Warm Up Don’t miss your chance to see Dylan Moran, star of Black Books, Shaun of the Dead and Calvary, in this intimate venue as a warm up for his 2015 tour ‘Off The Hook’. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 12-14 Feb Hear Hear Come see what happens when a leprechaun, an air hostess and a bitter

16-21 Feb Dead Simple Michael Harrison thinks he has it all but when his stag night prank goes horribly wrong, Michael finds himself alone, buried alive and staring death in the face. As time runs out and the terror grows, Detective Superintendent Roy Grace tries to solve his mysterious disappearance. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333

20-Feb Songbird: The Music of Eva Cassidy This is a fantastic concert performance which also tells the story of one the greatest singers of the 1980s and 1990s. Key Theatre, Embankment Road Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 20-22 Feb Cirque Berserk Combining contemporary cirque skills with thrilling stunt action ‘Cirque Berserk’ is a danger-filled spectacle that will amaze audiences of all ages.

eastlife.co.uk | 99

enjoy a day out

Information correct at time of print.

Mondays to Saturdays, visit Peterborough by bus

for route, times and fares, please visit the busway website, or call us on 01480 309084.

www.thebusway.info EASTLIFE - Busway - JAN 2015.indd 1

05/01/2015 08:44:42

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851

generation of UK jazz musicians. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239

21-Feb Rigoletto The Russian State Ballet and Opera House is back with another worldclass Opera, ‘Rigoletto’ - a tragic tale of misunderstanding, revenge and sacrifice. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705

8-Feb East Anglia Chamber Orchestra The region’s premier chamber orchestra returns to Cambridge for a concert of drama and serene beauty, under the direction of favourite conductor Jacques Cohen. West Road Concert, Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184

24-28 Feb All My Sons ‘All My Sons’ is a searing investigation of honesty, guilt and the corrupting power of greed. The play was Arthur Miller’s first success, establishing him as a leading voice in theatre.Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 24-28 Feb Dreaming with Dail To dream with Dali is to enter the word of the most surreal mind there will likely ever be. You will laugh, you will cringe and you will almost certainly leave feeling very, very confused. If you enjoy moustaches, eggs and sexually provocative lobsters then this is the show for you. Corpus Playroom, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 300085 25-Feb Like Rabbits Lost Dog & Lucy Kirkwood present ‘Like Rabbits’, a dance performance inspired by Virginia Woolf’s short story Lappin and Lapinova. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 27-28 Feb Remote Seven teenager’s lives all intertwine over the course of a single evening as they make their way through the park on a seemingly normal autumn night. Angels Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 474447 28-Feb The Burlesque Show 2015 Beautiful choreography, hilarious routines and classic comedy combine to deliver the most highly regarded production of its kind in the UK. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239

9-Feb False Lights A new band providing a headline show on one of the biggest folk festival stages in the UK – that won’t be the only surprise. This project is the brainchild of finger-style guitar genius and singer-songwriter Sam Carter and folk revolutionary Jim Moray. The Junction, Clifton Way , Cambridge CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 9-Feb Collabro Collabro are an English musical theatre boy band who took the Britain’s Got Talent judges and viewers breath away with their renditions of classic tracks. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 11-Feb Katherine Jenkins Cherished as one of Britain’s favourite singers, Welsh mezzo soprano Katherine Jenkins has achieved meteoric success as the world’s most prolific classical crossover artist her nine studio albums have sold in excess of eight million copies and gone platinum all around the world. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 12-Feb Josh Kemp’s Jazz Prophets Born and bred in Cambridge, saxophonist Josh Kemp’s melodic inventiveness, warm tone and lyrical approach to improvisation mark him out as a hot property on the current contemporary scene. Hidden Rooms, Jesus Lane, Cambridge, CB5 8BA. 01223 514777

19-Feb Spectacular 60s Founder members Bev Bevan and MUSIC Trevor Burton appear in the current 7-Feb Black line up along with ex Robert Plant Following last year’s acclaimed band, and Steve Winwood band Melody Loses her Mojo, 20 Stories High member Tony Kelsey. The Cresset, return to The Key with a powerful and Bretton Centre, Peterborough, moving monologue piece with live PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 music, exploring how racial tensions in a tight knit community can test fam21-Feb The Chicago Blues ily bonds, friendships and loyalties. Brothers Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Be ready to sing your heart out Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 and shake your tail feather with this tribute to the kings of cool. Once this 8-Feb National Youth Jazz Orchestra show starts – your not sitting down. Now celebrating 50 years of existence Key Theatre, Embankment Road, NYJO features some of the best, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 most gifted and talented of the next

27-Feb Supereme Queen Scott is joined on stage by an enormously talented band including Nathan Mathers who brings all the electric guitar virtuosity required to play a very convincing Brian May. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1 Dec-8 Feb Fatal Consequences: The Chapman Brothers and Goya’s Disasters of War Last chance to see The Chapman Brothers’ Disasters of War takes Goya’s print series of the same title and reinvents and extends the imagery and horrors with a cornucopia of ideas from later wars and modern culture. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 3-12 Feb Peterborough Regional College Student Exhibition An exhibition of work created by the art, design and photography students at Peterborough Regional College in response to the architectural forms and spiritual quality of the Cathedral. All are welcome. Admission free. Open during usual Cathedral visiting hours.Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough, PE1 1XS. 01733 355315 12-Feb Journeys, Places, Stories and Faces The Grand Tourist industry and the artists who are based abroad. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 21-Feb An Introduction to Manga Drawing at Huntingdon Library Highly-acclaimed Manga artist Irina Richards from Sweatdrop Studios will be leading an interactive workshop suitable for ages 12-16. Learn a variety of Manga drawing techniques and get help and tips from an expert. Huntingdon Library, Archives and Learning Centre, Princes Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3PA. 0345 045 5225 SPECIAL EVENTS 21-Feb Angles Theatre Open Day The Angles Theatre will be throwing open its doors for very one special day of celebration, exploration and fun. Free to attend. Suitable for families. Angels Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 474447 28-Feb Behind the Scenes Tour Explore parts of the property not normally open to visitors. Note: the tour will involve several flights of stairs and inclosed spaces. Tours are at 1pm and 2.30pm and last around one hour. Tour price £3. Booking advisable due to limited spaces on the tours. Peckover House and Garden, N Brink Wisbech, PE13 1JR. 01945 583463

eastlife.co.uk | 101

VISIT

PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL

One of the finest Norman Cathedrals in Europe

> > >

OPEN DAILY (except Boxing Day) Mon-Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am - 3.00pm Sunday 12 noon - 3.00pm See website or call to check before visiting. ADMISSION No admission charge for individuals but donations are invited. Photo permits ÂŁ3. Charges apply for groups. TAKE A TOUR Monday to Friday 2.00pm Saturday 11.30am. CHORAL EVENSONG Usually 5.30pm weekdays. Saturday and Sunday 3.30pm.

FIND OUT MORE...

Visit www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

or call 01733 355315

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102 | eastlife.co.uk

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EXPLORE

PETERBOROUGH

hether it’s for a day out or short visit, Peterborough makes for an exciting visit

Offering an exciting mix of culture, countryside and city attractions, Peterborough is in its prime. The city has gone from strength to strength over the years and is now a vibrant cosmopolitan metropolis waiting to be discovered. Attractions Theatre and arts, nightlife, food and drink, shopping, heritage – whatever you may be looking for Peterborough has it. Discover Peterborough’s history and visit its magnificent Cathedral, which provides the most beautiful backdrop to the city. Sometimes referred to as a hidden gem, Peterborough Cathedral is awe-inspiring, both inside and out. It not only has a rare painted wooden nave ceiling dating back to the 13th century, it is also the burial place of Katharine of Aragon, Henry VIII’s first wife. Mary Queen of Scots was also buried here until her son James became King 104| eastlife.co.uk

of England and had her body removed to Westminster Abbey. If you have time, take a tour of the Cathedral with a trained guide who will fill you in about the fascinating stories attached to this ancient building. Tours take place at 2.00pm every day from Monday to Friday, and at 11.30am on Saturday mornings. They usually last around 1 hour and 10 minutes. Tickets are £7 per person (£5 concessions) and you can book in when you arrive at the Cathedral. Groups or anyone who would like to book ahead can call 01733 355300. From here, follow the heritage trail and be transported back in time at Peterborough Museum. There are the ever-changing exhibitions at the numerous art galleries and city museums. This month take part in a Heritage Spring Workshop from 7 to 28 Feb or discover the execution spots, prisons and plenty of grisly details of Peterborough with a

Crime and Punishment Walk on 19 Feb. Shopping in Peterborough is quite a pastime, in fact you are spoilt for choice with shopping centres such as Queensgate and Riverside hosting large retail brands, the City Market, Cathedral Square offering street entertainment, alfresco cafes, Farmers Markets and lots more at the heart of the city, independent stores, regular farmers markets and craft fairs. When spring arrives head to Ferry Meadows Country Park. Less than three miles from the city centre, here you can let the kids play, take a relaxing walk around the lakes and woodlands, cycle and go fishing. If you’re visiting for the weekend check out the extensive line up of drama, ballet and concerts available at the city’s two theatres; the Key Theatre and the Cresset Theatre. To see what’s on this month turn to page 99. Food & Drink When the daylight fades experience Peterborough’s nightlife. There is a selection of restaurants

AREA FOCUS

serving cuisine for every taste and cocktail bars and nightclubs open until the early hours for the party people among you. Whether you prefer fine restaurants or pub food, Peterborough has a great selection of places to eat and drink. For a little romance this month try one of the floating restaurants down by the river or try a dish from around the world at one of the city’s Mexican, Thai, Oriental or Italian restaurants. As well as chain restaurants throughout the city, you’ll find a number of great establishments such as Clarkes located on Queen Street and some hidden in the city’s hotels such as Sweet Olives Restaurant at Queensgate Hotel and the Brassiere at The Bull Hotel. Head a little outside to the surrounding villages and you’ll discover quality country pubs with roaring log fires and hearty British dishes. The Crown Inn in nearby Elton, is a beautiful five star country inn with bed and breakfast accommodation. Sleeping For some pampering stay at the Best Western Plus Orton Hall Hotel and Spa. Set in a 17th century manor house, the hotel is nestled in 20 acres of mature parkland in the conservation village of Orton Longueville. The hotel boasts 70 elegant rooms, some with romantic four-poster beds.

What’s on Sat 28 Feb RAF Band Concert at 7.30pm, Peterborough Cathedral The RAF Wyton Area Voluntary Band are celebrating their 60th anniversary with a concert including special guests, the Central Band of the Royal Air Force. Tickets £15, £10 by email from WYT-PMS-P1@mod.uk Thurs 12 Feb Valentine’s Day Quiz Night Test your knowledge with friends (min. four people per team) with a fun quiz with a Valentines Day twist at the Peterborough Central Library. Tickets £3 per person. Fri 27 Feb Supreme Queen at the Key Theatre Front man, Scott Maley plays an uncannily realistic ‘Freddy’ with just the right look, stage persona and, most importantly of all, the most incredibly powerful voice. Attention to detail is truly impressive and extends to their use of the exact same equipment used by Queen on stage in their heyday.

Ideal for both leisure and business The Hub is located less than two miles from the city centre and train station, which makes it perfect for those looking to explore the city. eastlife.co.uk | 105

Stoke by Nayland Hotel Presents...

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ESSEX

What’s on in

Essex

THEATRE & SHOWS 31 Jan-21 Feb Deadly Murder Over the course of one explosive night, Camille must use all her wits and cunning to save her life - and to prevent the dark secrets of her past from destroying everything. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 4-6 Feb Essex Theatre Festival ‘Essex Theatre Festival’ gives local people the opportunity to share their work whether it is playwriting, poetry, comedy, drama, movement, music or art. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 4-Feb Simon Amstell: To Be Free With intense vulnerability and troubling honesty, Amstell explores freedom, joy, love, death, adventure, art, peace, sex, regret, success, eating, suffering, dreaming, healing, forgiving and other areas. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 5-Feb Milton Jones and the Temple of Daft Yes him with the loud shirts and messed up hair from Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Roadshow and multiple series on Radio 4. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 6-7 Feb Noodles Aerialists, hand-balancers, wirewalkers, contortionists and magicians twist and bend the frontiers of reality. Noodles is a mouth-wateringly surreal dish served with a side order of family friendly madness. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 6-Feb Money for Nothing ‘Money for Nothing’ is Europe’s premier tribute to Dire Straits. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 7-Feb The Thinking Drinkers Guide To The Legends Of Liquor A brand new show from awardwinning drinks experts whose ‘Guide to Alcohol’ has sold-out at the Fringe and at London’s Soho Theatre for three years running. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Chinese New Year Gala Sunday 15 February 2pm acked with exciting dance, art and culture, come and share in the celebrations of one of the most important festivals in the Chinese Lunar Calendar at the Chinese New Year Gala. The performance is presented by Colchester Chinese Culture Society and features the traditional Lion Dance, Martial Arts, Chinese Folk Dance, singing from the Community School Choir, and more. Approximate running time: 2 hours. Price: £7 / £5 child. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

7-Feb Teechers Blackeyed Theatre revives its highlyacclaimed production of John Godber’s classic comedy about life at a modern comprehensive for Mr Nixon, an unsuspecting new drama teacher. Braintree Arts Centre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556354 7-Feb Complete Madness A sensational theatre extravaganza featuring the amazing talents of this 5-piece band who will take you on a musical journey through the story of one of Britain’s most memorable,visual and fun bands. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 9-10 Feb Table Manors Part of the trilogy The Norman Conquests, Alan Ayckbourn’s hilarious play depicts the interplay between six characters over a weekend in the din-

ing room as assistant librarian Norman tries to bring happiness to the lives of the three women present at the house with varying results. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 11-14 Feb Hansel and Gretel Experience first class opera and be transported away as Humperdinck’s sumptuous music comes to life in this dramatic adaptation of the wellknown fairytale. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 11-12 Feb Dara O Briain Crowd Tickler Catch one of the most charismatic, intelligent, fast-talking and downright funny live performers working today. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southendon-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 12-Feb Grounded ‘Grounded’ targets our assumptions about war, family and what it is to be a woman. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 12-Feb Alan Carr No stranger to yap Alan Carr will be yapping his way around the UK & Ireland with his brand new stand up show ‘Yap, Yap, Yap!’ Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 14-Feb Romeo and Juliet A dazzling Broadway production of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet especially for lovers this Valentine’s Day. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 14-Feb King Arthur’s Kitchen A hilarious musical about heroism, damsels in distress and good food. Set in the basement kitchen at Camelot castle – the comedy trio with the help of song, dance and slapstick, regale stories from Arthur’s legendary feats. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 17-21 Feb Roald Dalh’s The Witches They disguise themselves as lovely ladies, when secretly they want to squish and squelch all the wretched children they despise. Luckily one boy and his grandmother know how to recognise these vile creatures but can they get

eastlife.co.uk | 107

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ESSEX rid of them for good? Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135

Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633

17-Feb 71 The year is 1971 and the sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland is at its bloodiest. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505

14-Feb Herts & Soul Community Choir ‘Herts & Soul’ will be celebrating their 5th birthday at the Playhouse by supporting St. Clare Hospice with a Valentine’s Day concert of love songs and dedications across musical ages and genres. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945

17-28 Feb Jersey Boys ‘Jersey Boys’ tells the true life story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks who wrote their own songs, invented their own sound and sold 175 million records worldwide. Featuring hit after legendary hits. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 17-21 Feb Lionboy Charlie Ashanti lives in a future where phones are powered by the sun, cars are banned and companies are more powerful than countries. Charlie is a perfectly normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to cats. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 18-Feb Rich Hall Rich Hall’s critically acclaimed grouchy, deadpan style has established him as a master of absurdist irony and the king of rapid-fire wit. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 20-Feb Sinatra, Sequins and Swing Prepare to be wowed by the most exciting new Big Band & Swing show to hit the UK in years. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 24-28 Feb Guys and Dolls Winner of numerous Tony and Olivier Awards over the past 60 years, ‘Guys and Dolls’ tells the story of a group of New York gamblers and the ladies in their lives. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 26 Feb-14 Mar Educating Rita Fizzed with ambition, Rita explodes into the life of middle-of-the-road, middle-aged, middle-class Open University tutor, Frank. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 MUSIC 13-Feb Voice of the Heart Karen Carpenter This stunning show celebrates the music of The Carpenters. The evening is guaranteed to lead everyone through a magical memory. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 13-Feb The Three Degrees Soulful voices and beautiful gowns make this a show not to be missed.

16-Feb The Counterfeit Stones Each show takes you on a hilarious trip through five decades of outrageous fashion and fantastic hit songs. With colourful costume, sourced and made from top movie wardrobe departments and perfectly recreated sounds, faithfully matching the original records. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 20-Feb Helen Keating Helen sings tunes from Cole Porter, Ira Gershwin, Fats Waller and more. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 21-Feb Jackson – Live in Concert Ben is joined on the stage by his incredible band and dancers who work their way through all the hits. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 21-Feb T.Rextasy ‘T.Rextasy’ have now been performing around the world for over 20 years, a career that ironically out lives Marc’s very own T.Rex. The band is now accepted as the world’s only official live tribute band dedicated to Marc Bolan & T.Rex, and the only band endorsed and approved by Marc Bolan’s family, estate, original ex-members of T.Rex, and Bolan’s catalogue management. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 21-Feb Only One Direction The world’s original One Direction tribute band come to Chelmsford Civic Theatre. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 22-Feb Remembering John Denver A tribute to the man and his music as they perform a show packed with anecdotes, factoids and memories. Brentwood Theatre, Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305 22-Feb The Jubilee String Quartet ‘The Jubilee String Quartet’ start their recital, as part of our Symphonies By The Sea season, with Haydn’s Quartet Op. 33 No.1, nicknamed the ‘Russian’ Quartet after Haydn dedicated it to the Grand Duke Paul of Russia. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135

27-Feb The Old Soul Roadshow New to Southend, the show brings you a fantastic mix of Funk, Soul, Boogie, Disco and Motown. From the 60s to the present, its handpicked seasoned DJ’s are guaranteed to keep you moving and a grooving to a selection of top quality soulful tunes. Street-Food also available on the night. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 27-Feb The Stones ‘The Stones’ bring to the stage all the energy and excitement of a live Rolling Stones concert. This is not a tongue in cheek approach, but a serious tribute to their music. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 15 Jan-22 Feb An Artists Life While most of the paintings in this exhibition were produced during the last twelve months, Anthony frequently returns to paintings and prints he has made over the years, adding new touches and ideas. This exhibition represents much of his working life as an artist. Parndon Mill, Harlow. 01279 426042 1-21 Feb Southend and the Great War 1914 - 1918 A major new exhibition on the impact of The Great War on the people of Southend and the contributions from the people of Southend to the war effort. Including the Frontline, the Homefront, the defence of the town and borough and our hospitals. Southend Central Museum, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea. 01702 434449 17-19 Feb Medieval Storytelling Hear Some stories from the days of yore in this Medieval castle. Free event after normal Castle admission. No booking required. Colchester Castle, Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1TJ. 01206 282939 SPECIAL EVENTS 1-Feb Essex Antiques Retro and Vintage Fair With the foyer and main auditorium chock-a-block full of goodies from diamond jewellery to furniture and vintage through to down-right ancient, it’s paradise for anyone hunting out a bargain or furnishing their home. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 28-Feb 6th Winter Beer Festival at East Anglian Railway Museum A smaller Beer Festival which takes place in the Goods Shed. East Anglian Railway Museum, Station Road, Wakes Colne, CO6 2DS. 01206 242524

eastlife.co.uk | 109

A TRIP TO

SAFFRON WALDEN

themed play area, visit the stable block and take a ride on the miniature railway.

With a rich history, beautiful thatched homes and surrounding picturesque villages, it’s no surprise that Saffron Walden regularly tops the polls for the best places to live in the country.

During the February half term, 16 to 20 Feb, Audley End will be hosting Victorian Games Galore. From skittles to quoits, croquet to chess, play like a Victorian as you step back in time. Discover games that time forgot and master the skills needed to out manoeuvre your opponents and astound your family.

ombining its historic appearance with a modern day town, Saffron Walden has everything you need

A mid-sized market town in the Uttlesford district of Essex, the area has a history dating over 1,000 years. Fast forward to the present day and you’ll discover a bustling market town, home to an array of high street and independent stores, restaurants and cafes. The Market Square is the central point of the town with many amenities, stores and restaurants directly on the Square or in the surrounding roads. You’ll find stores such as The Mad Hatters Vintage Emporium and gift and interior stores such as Lottie Mutton and The

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Corner Cupboard, all well worth a browse. It is also home to the busy Tourist Information Centre, which offers visitors the opportunity to find out more about the area, attractions and local events. The town has a friendly and strong sense of community spirit, which helps retain the town’s charm and appeal. Attractions A visit to Audley End House and Gardens is a must for anyone visiting the area. Located just outside the town, the grand stately home makes for a wonderful day out. Widely known for its restored parterre and walled Organic Kitchen Garden, the estate is a must for families every season. Children can enjoy the estate

Within the town you’ll find two fascinating mazes, the ancient turf maze on the Common and the restored Victorian yew hedge maze at Bridge End Garden. Bridge End Garden is a series of seven interlinked gardens laid out by the Gibson family in the nineteenth century. These Grade II listed gardens are open to the public each day free of charge. There are also a number of art galleries including The Fry Art Gallery, The Saffron Walden Gallery and Church Street Gallery, all of which have regular exhibitions throughout the year.

AREA FOCUS

Film lovers should visit Saffron Screen, the town’s independent community cinema, which hosts a full programme of films and special events.

worldly wines. There is a large delicatessen and tapas and wine is served daily. Cheddar Vine will also be holding regular wine tastings.

Food and Drink Whether you’re looking to grab a quick bite, have dinner and drinks with friends or fancy a romantic meal, you’ll find a restaurant to suit.

Saffron Walden’s rural location means some great country pubs can be found in the local area. Eastlife highly recommends a visit to The Coach and Horses in the nearby village of Newport. A warm and welcoming pub you’ll find a great selection of beer and ale and tasty hearty food – the homemade lasagne is a must try.

The Eight Bells and Cross Keys are a popular choice for lunch and dinner. Located on Bridge Street, The Eight Bells offers a range of mouthwatering dishes, which use the best of local produce and are served in the either the bar area or restaurant. The Cross Keys prides itself on British food with a twist in its bar and restaurant, is also home to Molly’s Coffee and Cake Shop during the day and offers six boutique bedrooms. The newest eatery to the town is the charming Cheddar Vine located on Cross Street. A must-visit for cheese and wine lovers, here you’ll find a fabulous selection on tasty cheeses and

bed and breakfasts are available such as Newdgate House Bed & Breakfast in Wimbish and The Stables Holiday Cottage on Debden Road. The beautiful St Mary’s Church, by local photographer Scott Hughes

Elsewhere in the local area, Elder Street Farm Shop is a great deli café in Wimbish, a short distance away is the delightful Debden Barns and further still but well worth a visit Fleur De Lys, a village pub located in Widdington. Sleeping If you’re planning an overnight stay, you’ll find a number of establishments offering accommodation at the heart of the town such as The Cross Keys and The Saffron Hotel. Elsewhere homely

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The Crown House Hotel

Valentines Day Specials Saturday February 14th, 7pm - 9pm 3 Course dinner for £35 including Prosecco Reception and After Dinner Tea & Coffee

Dinner, Bed & Breakfast from £140 ALSO TAKING MOTHERS DAY BOOKINGS NOW Sunday March 15th 2015 For further information email: reservations@crownhousehotel.com Crown House, Great Chesterfield • Saffron Walden • Essex • CB10 1NY Tel: 01799 530515 112 | eastlife.co.uk

Maternity, Nursing & Childrenswear 0-3 Years 12 Market Row, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1HB 01799 520807 www.beautybumpandbaby.com

e Mad Hatterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

MAD HATTERS VINTAGE EMPORIUM is a treasure trove where you will find vintage jewellery, small vintage furniture, clothes, china, and lots, lots more. we bring the past back to life and memories come to life here , please visit us at 29 High St, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1AT 01799 522221 | www.madhattersvintageemporium.co.uk

WINE AND CHEESE DELICATESSEN WINE AND CHEESE DELICATESSEN

WINE AND CHEESE DELICATESSEN

COME IN AND SAMPLE OUR WINES AND CHEESES We offer a Free Tasting Service Relax and enjoy a Glass of Wine and a Platter from the Deli Over 100 Wines from The New World Shop in our extensive Deli with over 30 different UK cheeses, Olives and Pate Crackers, Chutneys, Charcuterie and much more Including lots of Novelty and Gift Items

8A Cross Street, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1EX | 01799 523853 | www.thecheddarvine.com eastlife.co.uk | 113

Peace of mind

for you and your family The Hertfordshire Fune Funeral eral Plan is a bespoke, bespokee, pre-payment plan exclus exclusive sive to Austin’s which takes care of your wishes wishes and simplifies the arrangements for your loved ones.

Planning ahead for peace of mind

www.austins.co.uk WELWYN GARDEN CITY • 01707 390018 STEVENAGE • 01438 316623 WELWYN • 01438 714686 HITCHIN • 01462 438422 HERTFORD • 01992 582052 KNEBWORTH • 01438 812365 BUNTINGFORD • 01763 274111 WARE • 01920 468551 austins_HFP_HBI_LandHPC_129x186_artwork.indd 1

Please visit

16/1/12 10:49:16

Gallery 1066 Gallery 1066

DATES FOR Please visit THE DIARY

HousingDylan an exciting portfolio international IzaakJuneof5th, 7-9pm artists and an eclectic range of original works of art. Please visit us and Dylan's unique approach to cityscape paintings has Housing an exciting portfolio ofimpact international artists andHis coaching our sister gallery ‘London this historic made a huge on artRow’ lovers in across Britain. viewof of undulating skylines, an eclectic range of original works art. Please visitfamous us and town ofidiosyncratic Baldock. buildings and busy metropolitan scenes encourages our sister gallery ‘London coaching us to Row’ look at in the this world historic around us with new eyes, and A warm welcome awaits you! offers a distinctive contemporary take on urban life. town of Baldock.

O’Connor AkiyamaA warm welcome Danielle awaits you! September 18th, 7-9pm

Celebrating her stunning new collection ‘Shine’ Painting in a variety of media, Danielle creates luminous floral images that vibrate with life, energy and colour, whether through a riotous party of flowers or a single magnificent blossom. She has received numerous awards for her paintings which she describes as “sanctuaries for the soul

Carl Payne- November 20th 7-9pm open tuesday - saturday 10am - 6pm sunday & evenings by appointment

Carl Payne’s extraordinary figurative sculpture is based on traditional tenets but has a bold contemporary style which has won him collectors from all over the world. He creates his stunning bronze sculpture in the UK with an amazing mastery of technique. His complex and hugely rewarding process demands patience, accuracy, commitment and artistry. Carl is inspired by music and the female form.

open tuesday - saturday 10am - 6pm sunday & evenings by appointment Willow Mews, 6a Hitchin Street, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 6AE

www.gallery1066fineart.com info@gallery1066fineart.com telfantastic : 01462 622233 All events are strictly invitation only. Please contact the gallery today for more information and your chance to come and meet one of these award winning artists. Please subscribe to our website to be kept up to date with new collections, artists and exciting events.

Willow Mews, 6a Hitchin Street, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 6AE

Willow Mews, 6a Hitchin Street, Baldock, Hertfordshire 6AE622233 www.gallery1066fineart.com info@gallery1066fineart.com tel SG7 : 01462 www.gallery1066fineart.com

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info@gallery1066fineart.com

tel: 01462 622233

BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS

What’s on in

Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE & SHOWS 3-8 Feb The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies Bilbo and Company are forced to be embraced in a war against an armed flock of combatants and the terrifying Smaug from acquiring a kingdom of treasure and obliterating all of Middle-Earth. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 3-4 Feb Jersey Boys ‘Jersey Boys’ tells the true life story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks who wrote their own songs, invented their own sound, and sold 175 million records worldwide. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 5-21 Feb Jefferson’s Garden The world premiere of a gripping, powerful, entertaining and timely play from the internationally acclaimed writer Timberlake Wertenbaker. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 7-Feb Tom Stade The free-thinking philosopher comes to the ‘Get Stuffed’ stage to ponder timeless questions. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring. HP23 5QY 9-10 Feb Big Eyes A drama centered on the awakening of the painter Margaret Keane, her phenomenal success in the 1950s, and the subsequent legal difficulties she had with her husband, who claimed credit for her works in the 1960s. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 11-Feb Only Fools and Boycie An intimate evening with Only Fools And Horses actor John Challis. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 12-Feb ‘Allo ‘Allo Expect slapstick, accents galore and a vast array of characters from war-torn France – a fantastic non-PC night out. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Public Tree Planting Sunday 8 February 11am to 3pm Join in throughout the day as The Marston Vale Trust plant trees at a new site in the Vale. Anyone can do it, from the youngest to the eldest. Make sure you’re dressed for the weather (it’ll probably be muddy) - it’s usually cold and wet. Tools, training, trees, tea and a toilet will be provided. Free shuttle buses will run from the Forest Centre to the planting site between 10.45am and 2.15 pm. Voulenteers are welcome to come along when they like and stay as long as they like. It will be an excellent reason to get back to the Forest in the months and years to come. Tel: 01234 762608 The Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, MK43 0PR 01279 710200 12-14 Feb Set Fire to the Stars An aspiring poet in 1950s New York has his ordered world shaken when he embarks on a week-long retreat to save his hell raising hero, Dylan Thomas. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 13-Feb Moscow State Circus Set in the mystical centre of Moscow’s cultural & artistic quarter Park Gorkogo (Gorky Park) is the perfect back drop for what is undoubtedly the greatest & most famous circus on earth. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200

14-15 Feb Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb Larry spans the globe, uniting favorite and new characters while embarking on an epic quest to save the magic before it is gone forever. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 15-22 Feb My Old Lady An American inherits an apartment in Paris that comes with an unexpected resident. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 18-Feb Alan Carr – Yap, Yap, Yap! The BAFTA and British Comedy Award winning comedian, author and chat show supremo returns to his stand up roots with his hilarious take on life. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 18-Feb Puss in Boots With a host of puppets, a working windmill and an avalanche of fruit and nuts come and see this classic furry tail, it’s the cat’s whiskers. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 19-Feb Mark Thomas: Cuckooed Mark Thomas tells his true story of how Britain’s biggest arms manufacturer (BAE Systems) came to spy on a comedian. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 19-Feb Decomposed! A riotous theatrical adventure full of music and comedy, suitable for everyone. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117 20-21 Feb That’ll Be the Day This hugely entertaining rock‘n’roll spectacular features a fantastic line up of knock-out hits from the 1950’s, 60s and 70s, plus loads more hilarious comedy. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200

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Knebworth Care Home are pleased to announce the opening of their new nursing unit. In addition to Residential care we are now able to offer the following services; Nursing Care, Palliative Care, Dementia Care, Respite and Convalescence, in a luxury environment thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;stailored to individual needs. All rooms are spacious and well-appointed with en suite facilities. Each room also offers a 24-hour call system, and a 37-inch flat screen TV. Knebworth Care Home also offers a range of communal facilities such as a bar/coffee lounge, a salon, and a variety of lounges and dining facilities. The home backs onto open countryside and provides some wonderful views, which can be enjoyed from many of the rooms within the home or whilst sitting in its landscaped gardens. The home is situated in Woolmer Green which has an excellent transport connections including bus services, a railway station and easy access to the A1, enabling families and friends to visit with ease.

We are very proud of our home and would be more than delighted to show you round

Please contact Jackie Clarke on 01438 814 580 or email: Jackie.clarke@abbeyhealthcare.org.uk

BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS 20-Feb Showstoppers - The Improvised Musical Each night, audience suggestions are instantly transformed into an all-singing, all-dancing production, always with unpredictable and hilarious results. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 22-Feb An Evening With Julian Lloyd Webber Enjoy a brilliant evening of story-telling and live music as Julian Lloyd Webber takes you through a historical and musical journey of his life and career. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 23-28 Feb Sherlock Holmes - The First Adventures With a delicious macabre twist, here is a brand new version of the Sherlock Holmes stories for the 21st century. Queen Mother Theatre, Walsworth Road, Hitchin, SG4 9SP. 01462 455166 24-28 Feb Oliver Lionel Bart’s sensational musical ‘Oliver!’, an exhilarating story about one boy’s survival against the odds, packed full of joyful songs. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 24-25 Feb Saturday Night Fever One of the most loved dance stories of all time is packed with legendary hits from the Bee Gees including the classics Stayin’ Alive, Night Fever, Jive Talking, You Should Be Dancing and How Deep is Your Love? Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 28-Feb Patrick Monahan: Adventures in Monahan Land A brand new, energetically witty and charming family show. Expect plenty of playful audience interaction from this loveable the Irish/IranianTeessider. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117 MUSIC 5-Feb Limehouse Lizzy Attention to detail, playful audience interaction and that all important X-factor that leaves you with the feeling of witnessing the real thing. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 7-Feb Rock N Roll Paradise Popular production Rock n Roll Paradise continues to thrill British audiences with its high octane, non stop performances of the world’s most popular rock’n’roll hits. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200

12-Feb The Billy Fury Years Hailed as “the best Fury since Fury”, Michael King played the role of Billy Fury on the 2008 smash hit show Buddy Holly 50th Anniversary Tour. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 14-Feb Showaddywaddy ‘Showaddywaddy’ have long been established as Europe’s most successful ever exponents of retro-inspired rock’n’roll. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 20-Feb Jimmy Jones: Return of the Guvnor For over 40 years Jimmy has been a major star in theatres and clubs across the UK. An inspiration to many who followed in his footsteps, Jimmy is still recognised as The Guvnor. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 20-Feb Fairport Convention Hailed as the creators of British folkrock music, the band members retain their passion for live performance making ‘Fairport’ one of the most entertaining bands on the concert circuit. Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 21-Feb Bublé Fever Rickie Arthur is setting the world of music alight with his and distinct interpretation of Michael Bublé. This is so considered by many to be the world’s No.1 Michael Bublé show. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 22-Feb The Ronnie Scott’s Story Mixing classic music from the jazz greats who have performed at Ronnie Scott’s. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 26-Feb James Taylor Quartet Still famed for its upbeat, energetic live shows, James’ quartet shows no sign of slowing down. The band’s relentlessly entertaining tunes take inspiration from the rare-groove style funk and boogaloo funk of the 60s and 70s. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 27-Feb Elkie Brooks Performing some of her classic hits, blues and jazz, an electric evening with Elkie is guaranteed to leave you begging for more. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road , Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 28-Feb Romantic Giants to Wrap up the 19th Century Three masterpieces from the last 20 years of the 19th Century. The concert opens joyously with the overture to Humperdinck’s delightful opera Hansel

and Gretel and then moves serenely on to Brahms. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SJ. 01234 269519 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 29 Jan-26 Feb Art from Fearnhill and Highfield An opportunity to see the wealth of talent at the Highfield and Fearnhill schools with this display of A-Level work by local sixth-formers. Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3EW. 01462 670788 3-26 Feb Indian Portraits More local talent on display with work by the talented girls of Letchworth’s St Francis’ College. Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3EW. 01462 670788 4-Feb In Every House A Soldier During WW1 thousands of homes billeted soldiers, men from different areas of the country descended on small communities and changed their lives completely. Find out how this impacted Bishop’s Stortford during the First World War and hear some of the stories from the time. Bishop’s Stortford Museum, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 12 Feb-15 Mar Ed Org Stunning illustrative work by this highly collectable artist. Inspired by myth, legend, folk and fairytale, Ed’s work is a stunning mix of exquisite illustration and vivid imagination, with gorgeous Art Nouveau & PreRaphaelite influences. Obsidian Art, Old Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville, HP22 5XJ. 01296 612150 SPECIAL EVENTS 12-Feb Acoustic Cafe ‘Acoustic Café’ is a monthly open mic night with an exciting line-up of poets, spoken word artists, singer-songwriters and instrumentalists. Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3AE. 01442 228091 17-Feb Chris Packham-Tadpoles not included This talk contains encounters with large hungry carnivores, close shaves with extinction, and dangerous views about conservation and will expose the truth about our wildlife. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 24-Feb A History of Pubs and Beers in Bishop’s Stortford Museum Curator Sarah Turner will provide you with an amazing insight into the history of some of the pubs and beer houses of the town with some salacious stories about the landlords and their clientele.Bishop’s Stortford Museum, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200

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AREA FOCUS

A VISIT TO

OLNEY F

ebruary can only mean one thing – it’s almost time for the famous Olney Pancake Race Day Nestled on the Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire borders alongside the Great River Ouse with its large area of attractive landscape, Olney is a beautiful location at any time of year. However, February in particular is a very exciting month for this historic town as it hosts its famous Pancake Race Day. Olney Pancake Race Held on Shrove Tuesday each year, legend has it, that back in 1445 a local woman, late for the Shriving service, ran to the church with the frying pan of pancakes that she was cooking still in hand. Nowadays, the women of Olney recreate the race by running from the market place to the parish church, holding a pan and wearing the typical apron and cap. Olney competes every year against the women of Liberal, Kansas, USA, in a friendly competition.

In 1950 a junior race for the children of local schools was also established and continues today. The event is followed by the traditional Shriving service, prize giving and of course plenty of pancakes for everyone - part of the ancient ritual in preparation for the fasting of the Lent.

is a highlight. The 18th century house of poet William Cowper, now The Cowper and Newton Museum, is also well worth checking out. The museum is currently closed for the winter but will reopen 3 March.

This year’s 66th pancake race sponsored by J Garrard & Allen takes place Tuesday 17 February, with the race starting at 11.55am. Join the crowds in what we expect to be an exciting and fun event.

Wander off the High Street to find hidden gems such as Fountain Court and Rose Court, very popular courtyards full of places to eat and shop. Olney is home to a variety of independent shops, fashionable clothes boutiques such as Dusk Till Dawn and antiques emporiums, making for a truly special shopping experience. You can’t miss a trip to one of the characterful markets, from the weekly Olney market to the monthly farmers market with locally grown or made produce.

Things to do After surviving a great fire in 1854 and the Industrial Revolution, Olney is now a lively market town that has plenty to offer to both locals and visitors. Start by visiting its abundant cultural places and historic buildings, among which the 14th century Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul

Food and Drink With such a wide range of restaurants, cafés and pubs you’ll be spoiled for choice. Take a break and enjoy British and international food, hot beverages or traditional ales at the Bull Inn, The Two Brewers or The Courtyard Brassiere – to name just a few top rated establishments. eastlife.co.uk | 119

Have You Got Your Have Have Have you Have you got you got your you got your got Prom your your Prom Prom Dress? Prom Dress? Dress? Dress? Prom Dress?

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Have you got your Prom Dress?

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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 fit for a fairy-tale princess, through to something vivacious, short and sparkly. There’s no doubt that these dresses will have you captivating your audience and looking every bit the Prom Queen the moment you step out! Don’t Forget We Hire Too (Subject to T&C’s)

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Dusk Till Dawn

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MUCH ADO deli, café & catering

Stanley Court

Co-op

High Street

Spring Lane

The Market Place

The Galleries

Weston Road

Visit Country and Stable of Olney at 6 The Galleries, just off of the market square or shop online at

www.countryandstable.co.uk. We stock Ariat, Bucas, Cavallo, Champion, Crew Clothing, Eskadron, Horseware Ireland, Jack Murphy, Le Chameau, Pikeur, Musto, Pampeano and Toggi. We are very excited to be welcoming Barbour to Country and Stable of Olney in Spring 2015 Come in and take a look! 120 | eastlife.co.uk

Much Ado is a long-established, well known and much loved deli, caterer and café in the historic Buckinghamshire market town of Olney. Our deli offers locally sourced meats that are cooked on the premises, pâtés and charcuterie. Fresh fruit and vegetables, cakes and pastries. Salads, seasonal foods and specialist products. Our selection of cheeses has to be seen to be believed!

01234 714006 www.muchadocatering.co.uk 8-10 Stanley Court, Olney, Buckinghamshire, MK46 5NH

AREA FOCUS

EXPLORE

NEWPORT PAGNELL W

ith a history dating back to the Iron Age, the town of Newport Pagnell is certainly worth a visit Perhaps best known for its long association with Aston Martin, the small market town of Newport Pagnell makes for an interesting visit year round. The history of the area dates back to the Iron Age and the town itself is from the Roman period. The strategic position of the town, commanding the bridges over the two rivers, has greatly influenced its history and development. For many centuries it has been a centre for transport and an important staging post for the coaching trade. Today, the town is home to an array of specialist shops and quality restaurants and has firmly established itself as a growing residential area. In recent years

new housing developments have been built, along with new schools to cope with the growing population.

Chandos Hall is home to The Newport Pagnell Historical Society museum, which hosts semi-regular exhibitions as well as plenty of historical artefacts.

Things to do The town boasts a range of sporting and leisure activities, along with a full programme of events throughout the year including the annual carnival and strawberry fayre.

In 2014 the town won a Silver Gilt award at Britain in Bloom. Newport Pagnell plan to enter the 2015 competition and are currently looking for residents to volunteer to put together a group who are willing to document all the various activities that take place during the year.

The town makes for some beautiful walks too, taking in the sight of the Tickford Bridge; the oldest working iron bridge in the country. There are many places of interest in the town, all of which can be seen by following the marked Heritage Trail. For example a walk along the River Ouzel can lead you to a church in the town centre, which dates back to the 13th century.

Food and Drink Newport Pagnell is home to a number of independent coffee shops, pubs and restaurants. If it’s a light bite and cup of tea you’re after head to Mrs Dollys or PicNic’s on the High Street or for an a la carte menu with mouth-watering dishes try Robinsons Restaurant located on St John Street. eastlife.co.uk | 121

Greyhound Extravaganza Greyhound Show & All Breeds Fun Dog Show

Sunday 24 May 2015

Animal Health Trust Kentford, Newmarket, CB8 7UU Trade stands º Cafe º Free Parking Picnic Area º Refreshments Registration from 9:00 am Entry fee £2.00 per class

For more info call 0845 602 2658 or 07787 701695

Charity Numbers: 269668 & SC044047

www.retiredgreyhounds.co.uk

where care counts…

Head office: Station Road, Ditchingham, Bungay, Suffolk. NR35 2QL. Registered charity 1124717

For further information please contact us: 01986 892728 info@all-hallows.org.uk : www.all-hallows.org.uk 122 | eastlife.co.uk

SUFFOLK

What’s on in

Suffolk

THEATRE & SHOWS 3-4 Feb 13 This is an uplifting, hilarious show, with an important message about life, love and friendship. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 5-6 Feb Teechers Fast-moving, inventive and highly entertaining, ‘Teechers’ brings to life an array of terrifying teachers and hopeless pupils through the eyes of Salty, Gail and Hobby; three Year 11 students about to leave school for good. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 7-8 Feb Treasure Island Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of murder, money and mutiny is brought to life in a thrilling new stage adaptation by Bryony Lavery, broadcast live from the National Theatre. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 9-11 Feb The Ghost Train Arnold Ridley’s classic comedy thriller about a group of travellers stranded at a remote railway station, reacting with various degrees of credulity to the station master’s warning of death to anyone who sets eyes on the ghostly train. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200

EDITOR’S CHOICE

as a leading voice in theatre. The New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900 14-Feb The Feather Catcher This non-verbal show playfully uses live music and beautiful projection to tell this delightful tale of teamwork. The New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900 14-Feb When You Cure Me A painful – and painfully funny – play about being young, in love and coping with serious illness. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726

Atmos 20-21 February at Snape Maltings Concert Hall DanceEast and Aldeburgh Music continue the hugely successful Snape Dances series with Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Wayne McGregor’s latest work Atomos; Atomising bodies, movement, film, sound and light into miniature shards of intense sensation. Ten incredible dancers perform McGregor’s unique style – sculptural, rigorous, jarring and hauntingly beautiful. Price: £22 Tel: 01728 687110 Snape Maltings Concert Hall, Snape, IP17 1SP. www.danceeast.co.uk

10-13 Feb Lionboy Charlie is a perfectly normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to cats. So when his parents are kidnapped, he sets off on a rescue mission – with a little help from a floating circus and its pride of performing lions. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505

Times’ but as well as comedy there is rancour in the air. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay,NR35 1EE. 01986 897130

11-Feb Love’s Labour’s Lost Summer 1914. In order to dedicate themselves to a life of study, the King and his friends take an oath to avoid the company of women for three years. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130

12-Feb Away From Home An edgy, moving and subversive one man show laced with sharp humour, going in for a hard tackle on football’s last taboo. The New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900

12-Feb Death on the Air You are present at a recording of the long-running radio comedy programme ‘The Olde Curiosity and Mystery of Barnaby Chuzzlewitt’s Hard

12-Feb All My Sons ‘All My Sons’ is a searing investigation of honesty, guilt and the corrupting power of greed. The play was Arthur Miller’s first success, establishing him

14-Feb Brendan Cole - A Night to Remember Loaded with ballroom magic and Latin excitement, Brendan’s newest live music and dance extravaganza will be 2015’s must see show. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 20-Feb Fat Man A sharp new take on a classic Greek myth, this is a bitterly funny story of love, loss and eating your way out of grief. As the audience are transformed into the gods of legend, will Orpheus ever escape his past? The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 22-Feb Mark Thomas: Cuckooed Mark Thomas tells his true story of how Britain’s biggest arms manufacturer, BAE Systems, came to spy on a comedian in this five star, multi-ward winning, critically acclaimed tale of hubris, planes, demos and undercover deceit. The New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900 24-28 Feb Sign of the Times This comedy drama explores the power of words and dreams in our changing world. The New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900 26-28 Feb Brief Encounter A modern classic, ‘Brief Encounter’ is remembered as one of the most haunting love stories ever told. With wit, warmth and joy, the heartbreak of this timeless story will be brought to the

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ADVERTORIAL

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Properties at The Maltings, which are built around a Grade II listed silk mill have been selling well attracting a real mix of buyers which adds to the community feel. They are attracted not only by the high specification of the luxury homes and the attention to detail but the range of amenities on the doorstep. Don said: “There are lots of facilities close by and we are opposite Bungay town Football Club which has a host of sporting activities. It is really lovely to see a development take on a life and character as more people settle in and I don’t think many of them will be planning a move for quite a while.” Pay a visit to The Maltings and settle yourself in to the luxurious show homes which are open Thursday to Monday 10am to 5pm Development: Waterside Maltings. Restoration & conversion of the iconic former Maltings. Newly built character homes Address: Pirnhow Street, Ditchingham, Bungay Marketing Suite & Show Home: Open Thursday to Monday 10am-5pm Contact: Don Dunkin or Claire Barron on 01986 892205 Independent financial advice call Michael Daniels Financial Services on 0161 8724503 or for a video overview visit michaeldanielsfinancialservices.co.uk

SUFFOLK stage by the Foolhardy Actors’ Company. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 27-28 Feb The Diary Of Adrian Mole Set in the 1980s, the story follows the life of teenager Adrian Mole, together with his daily dramas and misadventures. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 27-Feb A Night of Dirty Dancing Relive the passion, indulge in the romance and celebrate the greatest movie soundtrack of all time. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 28-Feb Movie Mania An upbeat raring to go show for all the family - featuring hip hop/street and contemporary dance routines to songs from movies such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Wizard of Oz, Men in Black and many many more. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Kings Street, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100 28-Feb Cirque Du Hilarious Dubbed “The Superstars of Slapstick”, father and son Clive and Danny’s particular brand of lunacy runs throughout the show, causing havoc and chaos on stage, and screams of laughter from all the family. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 18-Feb Count Arthur Strong Fresh from donkeys years on his awardwinning BBC Radio 4 series and the huge success of his BBC2 TV Show, Count Arthur Strong gets back to doing what he does best. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 MUSIC 3-Feb The Three Degrees A firm favourite with Prince Charles, ‘The Three Degrees’ are bringing their soulful voices, beautiful gowns, and fabulous stage show to The Apex. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 5-Feb Jo Harman and Company Jo is an original British singer-songwriter/bandleader whose work is broadly influenced by blues, gospel, soul, country, rock and other ‘roots’ sensibilities. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 6-Feb Sinatra, Sequins & Swing Join the UK’s most impressive Swing vocalists and rousing world-class 15 piece Pete Long Orchestra (featuring players from BBC Big Band, John Wilson Orchestra & Ronnie Scott’s Big Band) for this relentlessly entertaining Big Band concert. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds,

IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 7-Feb Songbird: The Music of Eva Cassidy The show features a brilliant on-stage live band, fantastic video footage and classic Eva Cassidy arrangements of some of the best songs of the late 20th century. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 7-Feb Rod Clark & Roller Coaster ‘Rod Clark and Roller Coaster’ present a great night of Rock‘n’Roll and country music together with humour and harmony provided by The Rockettes. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 12-14 Feb Rock Choir ‘Rock Choir’ sing their own arrangements of pop, Motown and chart songs - fabulous, uplifting fun. The Quay, Quay Lane, Sudbury, CO10 2AN 01787 374745 13-Feb An Intimate Evening of Magic Join in an evening of head-spinning magic with two UK-based, French professional magicians. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 14-Feb A Blue Moon Story ‘A Blue Moon Story’ is a light jazz musical that will have you spell bound under a full blue moon. Celebrate love and romance with this theatrical story featuring some golden favourites from the American Songbook. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 15-16 Feb Bury St Edmunds Concert Series Both a performer and a composer, multi-award winning guitarist Manus Noble is one of the most exciting and innovative of today’s generation of young guitarists. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 18-Feb 10cc ‘10cc’ are one of the very few acts to have achieved commercial, critical and creative success in equal measure, with their current live incarnation still able to sell-out major concert halls. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 20-Feb Snape Dances: Wayne McGregor Random Dance Atomos New work from one of the world’s leading dance companies Aldeburgh Music. Snape Maltings Concert Hall, Snape, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110 27-Feb Dolly Parton A two-hour tribute journey through the sensational career of one of country music’s most successful women.

Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 28-Feb Steeleye Span in Concert Folk rock pioneers Steeleye Span are touring with a new live show. Maddy Prior, the voice of the band, leads a line-up featuring faces old and new that will see them perform new gems alongside classics. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 ART & EXHIBITIONS 31 Jan-14 Mar Machines to Crystallize Time A new body of work by CJ Mahony and Georgie Grace created uniquely for Smiths Row. The exhibition brings together their shared interests in temporary states and immersive experiences, which they create via built spaces, through language and on screen. Smiths Row, The Market Cross, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1BT. 01284 762081 3-24 Feb Who Do you Think I Am? Oyster Press, a new arts organisation for Suffolk that specialises in teaching printmaking, will be offering free printmaking workshops as part of an arts project for older and younger people. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 13-19 Feb Think Spring, Mixed Media Exhibition A joint exhibition from Gillian Plumber, Louise Mock, Jennifer Mackay Windle and Margaret Grenham. Snape Gallery, Snape Maltings Concert Hall, Snape, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110 20-21 Feb Asher Svidensky: Respected Documentary Photographic Friday will be a Photographic Journey Through Mongolia and Saturday, a Recent Work - The Yin-Bou Fishermen of China including a secret photo project to be revealed. The Quay, Quay Lane, Sudbury, CO10 2AN. 01787 374745 25-Feb Mary Webb: How Things Start Researching colour as language. Works on paper and related paintings by Mary Webb. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 SPECIAL EVENTS 21-Feb Craft & Gift Fair Local exhibitors offer a great selection of handmade crafts & unique gifts. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 18-Feb Out and About Wednesdays Have fun making dens and playing with mud along with a few fun crafts. Start with having some fun with the Suffolk wildlife Trust and then follow the trail and find us in the woods hiding in dens. Ickworth House, Bury St Edmunds, IP29 5QE. 01284 735270

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AREA FOCUS

Photo by Roland Blunk of the Swan House Boutique Inn (www.swan-house. com/beccles)

DISCOVER THE BEAUTIFUL TOWN OF

BECCLES

eccles leading lady, Mayor Caroline Topping shares all about the beautiful historic town A great place to visit at any time of year, but particularly throughout the summer for its annual events, Mayor Caroline Topping shared her thoughts on the picturesque Suffolk town. Married with two children, raising money for charity, President of the League of Friends of Beccles Hospital, Beccles Choral Society and Beccles Rowing Club, and of course Mayor, Caroline is a busy lady. Luckily for us she was able to spare us sometime to give Eastlife readers a glimpse into a visit to Beccles. Things to do “Beccles is a beautiful, historic town situated on the banks of the Waveney River, in the heart of the Waveney Valley on the Suffolk/Norfolk border with excellent rail and road links in all directions,” says Caroline. “It is a hub for cycle paths and footpaths, national, regional and local, and for boaters on and wishing to access the Broads - the town is very much a major ‘Gateway to the Broads’. One of her top highlights of the

town is a “landmark church where Admiral Nelson’s parents married, with a very distinctive separate tower which houses one of two Tourist Information Centres (TIC) in the town from which guided tours of the tower take place and it offers magnificent views of the town, river and surrounding countryside.” She also recommends a trip to the “excellent Beccles and District Museum housed in the old Leman School overlooking the river valley,” and historic town hall. There’s a wide range of small, very individual shops catering for the visitors’ every need. “You name it and Beccles has it,” she claims. The Beccles and District Museum housed in the old Leman School overlooking the river valley is also worth a visit as is the ‘Scores’, which are public footpaths providing access to the river, an open air, heated, swimming pool open throughout the summer and a range of publicly accessible church halls, including the Public Hall which has a year round programme of

shows, exhibitions and entertainment events.

Another favourite of Caroline’s is Beccles Quay, which is home to a second TIC, a variety of boats, visitor moorings, the town’s harbourmaster, a children’s play park, a large open grassed recreation area and access to many miles of marshland and river bank walking. It is also the venue of the Harvest Moon Music Festival in August and the annual Beccles Duck Race in September (now in its 11th Year). What’s new “Though the town has developed certainly, and inevitably old industry and commercial activity has given way to new, but leaving a rich legacy and ‘look and feel’. This is not a town that has stood still and moped over the past, it is dynamic, has striven to keep the best of the past and is clear that it wants to develop appropriately and to welcome visitors and newcomers,” explains Caroline. “It is special the community spirit here is strong- it is a wonderful, inviting and open place to live, work, visit and stay - an all in one beautiful and friendly town.” town.” For the full interview dowload the Eastlife app or visit www.eastlife.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 127

Beccles Sewing & Handicrafts DRESSMAKING & CRAFT FABRICS HABERDASERY & CRAFT REQUIREMENTS SEWING MACHINES REPAIRS & SALES Authorised dealer for: JUKI, JANOME, BROTHER, BABYLOCK, PFAFF, BRITANNIA, SINGER & JAGUAR

Now in store the New Brother Innov-IS XV machine The most advanced embroidery machine – Ever!

15A Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB Telephone 01502 714234

128 | eastlife.co.uk

AREA FOCUS

BEAUTIFUL

BUNGAY

low down with a visit to the charming market town of Bungay

Great for visitors to the area who are looking for something a little different, Beccles and Bungay’s close proximity make it easy to spend the day visiting both but if you’re looking to really explore the area an overnight stay is highly recommended. Things to do Bungay situated on the picturesque River Wayeney and is a busy market town boasting several historic attractions, including a ruined castle, Borough Well and the thriving Thursday market on the ancient site of the Buttercross. The town is renowned for its wonderful array of shops and antiques. At the hub of Bungay’s shopping scene is Earsham Street, here you’ll find independent stores, cafes and delis. If you’re looking for a historical experience check out the Grade I listed Bungay Castle or perhaps one the town’s most

popular attractions Earsham Hall; a fine country mansion set in its own grounds surrounded by acres of beautiful countryside. Food and Drink Bungay has a great selection of tearooms. The aroma of home cooked food at Buttercross Tearooms has been attracting people through the doors of this delightful café more than 30 years and has become a must visit for breakfast, lunch or just a quick cuppa.

Sleeping After a busy day exploring you’ll need somewhere to rest your head. The Swan House is a fabulous boutique hotel and restaurant housed in a historic building for those staying Beccles. If you’ve opted to stay in Bungay the popular Earsham Park Farm, a bed and breakfast located in a Victorian farmhouse and The Kings Head Hotel, a family inn at the heart of the town, are both great places to stay.

The Willows Café at the Three Willows Garden Centre in Bungay is the ideal destination for morning coffee, light lunch or afternoon tea, with plenty to tempt you at any time of day. The café offers a regularly changing menu influenced by the seasons and availability of local ingredients. Food is all home cooked, even the jams and chutneys are made in-house.

eastlife.co.uk | 129

SOCIAL SCENE

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Just incase you missed it, every month we’ll bringing you the best of the month’s social media with a mix of pics, comments and stories from our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

We’re pleased to hear our lucky Christmas Competition winners love their prizes!

“TWEET TWEET” A Selection of our favourite tweets from the last month:

We love this reaction to one of our articles

@DiscoverGreenSt Jan 6 @Eastmagazines thanks SO MUCH! Hope you can pop buy tomorrow x

Don’t worry if you missed out on our last competition, we have plenty more planned this year, starting with our Valentine’s Day giveaway. On the day of love we’ll be giving away a handful of fabulous prizes. Keep an eye out for more details on Facebook and Twitter or visit www.eastlife.co.uk

Thanks to our contributors for retweeting! To enter simply follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines and Retweet our competition post, it’s that easy. Good Luck!

ot a story or something to share? Get in touch today! ‘Like’ our Facebook page /eastlifemag Follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines Follow our Instagram @eastlifemag

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02 East Life Easter 2015 FP_Layout 1 23/01/2015 13:04 Page 1

UFFORD PARK WOODBRIDGE

Easter Sunday Lunch and Children’s Easter Egg Hunt

Sunday 5th April Celebrate Easter with us this year and enjoy a delicious 2 or 3 course meal in the Park Restaurant. Arrive early and your children can enjoy activities* including an Easter egg hunt. (between 10am and 12 noon) Pre-booking is essential

£16.00 for 2 courses

£20.00 for 3 courses

* Free if you are joining us for Easter Sunday Lunch or join in the fun for just £2.50 per child up to the age of 14 years old. Under 5’s must be accompanied by an adult.

Easter Family Breaks from only £299 per adult (£618 per family of 4)** Free Easter Egg for each child staying over the Easter weekend. Dinner, bed and breakfast 3 hours use of the thermal suite spa Unlimited use of the health club 18 holes of golf Tokens for the 2 storey driving range ** Based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing a room or having 2 adjoining rooms. Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.

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