Eastlife January 2015 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

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January 2015

Living life in the East

January 2015

Make the most of where you live Issue 116

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU, NEW HOME

122 | eastlife.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 125

15210 East Life 240x168 Advert_Layout 1 10/07/2014 17:05 Page 1

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JANUARY 2015

Editor’s Letter Dear Reader,

editor @ eastlife Publisher Sean Thompson 01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com Publishing Consultant Paul Gibson 01954 268129 paul@eastmag.com Editor Emma Kemsley emma@eastmag.com Production Manager Craig Lewis 01954 268142 craig@eastmag.com Sales Manager (South Norfolk, Suffolk & Essex) Darren Marshall 07826 628680 darren@eastmag.com Area Manager (Herts, Beds & North Norfolk) Stewart Hedges 07595 894557 stewart@eastmag.com Area Manager (Cambridgeshire & West Norfolk) Jim Leishman 01954 267635 jim@eastmag.com ACCOUNTS/ENQUIRIES 01954 268129 accounts@eastmag.com 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 usually quit after a day or two. But, if unlike me you have actually realised posting exercise routines on Pinterest is not the same as working out, check out our ‘New Year, New You’ special from page 19 where you’ll find gym inspiration, spa breaks, diets and fitness classes to help you say goodbye to the turkey bulge. You may have also had time over the festive break to realise everything you’d like to change around the home. If you’re thinking of extending the home up or out or simply fancy an overhaul, take a look at our home exclusive on page 85 – tips, tricks and trends from the UK’s leading interior experts. Elsewhere we have the latest on school open days, wedding fairs and some exciting arts news. Don’t forget you can read more exclusive content by downloading the Eastlife App or by visiting www.eastlife.co.uk

Emma Kemsley Like us on Facebook

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@eastmagazines

@eastlifemag

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.

eastlife.co.uk | 7

CONTENTS JANUARY FEATURES

NEWS 11

AROUND THE REGION - the region’s top stories

LIFEST YLE 20 24 28 31

SPA BREAKS - beat the January blues GYM INSPIRATION - brand new gyms for 2015 FITNESS TAKES FLIGHT - aerial workouts DIETS - say goodbye to the Christmas bulge

EDUCATION 33 37

EDUCATIONAL NEWS - the latest news

SHOP THE SALES - how to find the best bargains

49 53

TOP TIPS - a checklist for your big day

68 72 78 90

LOFT EXTENSIONS - how to extend your home

OPEN DAYS - 2015 diary dates

FASHION

BATTLE OF THE BOOTCAMPS

Are you brave enough to take on the challenge?

WEDDINGS

DIARY DATES - fairs, exhibitions & bridal events

HOME & GARDEN

KITCHENS - make the most of your space INTERIORS - the biggest trends in 2015 BATHROOMS - updating on a budget

HEALTH 95

CARE HOMES - how to choose the right one

ARTS

NEW YEAR, NEW HOME

Tips, tricks & trends from the UK’s interior experts

101 103 105

ARTS COLUMN - Collette Hoefkens NEWS - the latest news and exhibitions THEATRE RELAUNCH - the new Maddermarket Theatre

AREA FOCUS 111

NORFOLK - listings and Fakenham and Dereham

119 127 133 139

CAMBS - what’s on and discovering Ely ESSEX- shows and exploring the Colne Valley BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS - events and Royston SUFFOLK - theatre listings and the beauty of Long Melford and Lavenham

106

THE REAL NEVER NEVER LAND

How Thorpeness inspired the story of Peter Pan

146

THE SOCIAL SCENE - your comments and pictures

eastlife.co.uk | 9

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AROUND THE REGION

Around the Region Latest News from

Intu Scoops BCSC Gold Award

Exclusive Invitation to Street Child United Fundraiser

n 2014, the Street Child United Cambridge Project raised more than £9,000 at its Street Kids World Cup Fundraiser, enough to send the whole team to Rio to play in the 2014 Street Child World Cup. This year the charity has grown along with its ambitions. Now called ‘Street Child United’, it aims to hold the Street Child Olympics in 2016 and there is now The Cambridge Project.

eading UK shopping centre owner intu scooped a Gold Award from the British Council of Shopping Centres last month for its contemporary, cutting-edge food court at intu Lakeside, Essex, designed by Rawls. The newly completed, third floor level, food court at the pre-eminent 1.44m sq ft shopping centre was refurbished and remodelled following a £9 million investment. Covering some 55,000 sq ft, including a central 1,100 seat dining area for customers, it has a 20 strong line-up of top fast food and express casual dining offers. The food court is part of an overall strategy for the centre to attract customers from further afield and give them reasons to stay for longer and return more often. This means retailers’ businesses can flourish. Mike Butterworth, chief operating officer for intu, said: “We have a £1.2 billion development pipeline nationally over the next 10 years to provide our 400 million visitors annually with their perfect shopping centre experience. This gives retailers and restaurateurs the right space in the right place where they can grow and trade successfully.” intu Lakeside has an annual footfall of 25 million. Its new food court features a wide mix of culinary styles to meet different customer tastes. Top names include US burger chain Five Guys, independent Californian Burritos and Tacos restaurant Tortilla, and Harpers British Classics, which specialises in good quality, hearty, homemade British food. Adding to the appeal of intu Lakeside, plans are in hand for the construction of a new £100m leisure quarter, which will see the arrival of further catering names, as well as leisure uses such as family enter-

Next month Cambridge Champagne Company is holding a fabulous fundraising event to cover the cost of flights, transport, help and food throughout the stay. The special evening of champagne tasting and street food will take place on Thursday 12 February 2015, at 7pm, in the gorgeous surroundings of The Old Hall, Queens College. Tickets are available for £40 each. There will be an exclusive auction to tempt guests with some excellent deals. The event will be intimate and fun, taking place in beautiful surroundings with all proceeds going to the Street Child World Cup, a global charity which began in Cambridge. This is a fabulous opportunity to be part of an important and supportive local charity. To buy tickets email: info@camcham.co.uk Supper Club at Stoke By Nayland

toke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa, Colchester will be holding a ‘supper club’ on Sun 25 January. The event will provide an exclusive dining opportunity presented by the 2 AA Rosette Lakes Restaurant. Diners can enjoy a 6-course taster menu with a specific theme. Tickets cost £39.95pp. Tel: 01206 265843 RUBY’S LINGERIE MOVES TO NEW PREMISES

lney’s premium lingerie boutique Ruby’s has moved from its location in Rose Court to 8 The High Street. The move comes as a result for the demand of more space and a larger, more prestigious store. eastlife.co.uk | 11

AROUND THE REGION Shop til you Drop on Green Street, Cambridge

Get voting for the Co-op’s Producer of the Year Award 2015

With voting set to open on 3 January, the Coop’s Producer of the Year Awards showcase the quality and diversity of more than 140 growers and producers from Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk who contribute to its award-winning ‘Sourced Locally’ range.

If you’ve not visited Green Street for a while this is the perfect opportunity to see how the street has changed and visit some of the brand new stores.

ix of the region’s food and drink producers are in the running to be crowned East of England Co-op Producer of the Year 2015 – with each now aiming to attract enough public votes to secure their place in the final.

This year’s six shortlisted local producers, judged on their achievements in product innovation, carbon cutting, staff development and what gives their business the ‘wow’ factor are: Essex •Ken Green Fish of Clacton – producers of smoked and frozen fish •Fairfields Farm of Wormingford – growers and producers of crisps and potatoes Norfolk •Norfolk Brewhouse of Fakenham – brewers of Moongazer real ales and Norfolk lager •Cornerways of Stokes Ferry, Kings Lynn – growers of tomatoes Suffolk •Taste of Suffolk of Bury St Edmunds – producers of fresh sausages and cooked meats •Hadleigh Maid – walnut & mallow whirls, selection boxes and easter eggs The business in each county that secures the most votes will be crowned county champion. Each will then face a prestigious panel of judges who will select the overall Producer of The Year. The winners will be announced at a Sourced Locally supper to be held at Wherstead Park, Ipswich on 19 March. Members and customers can vote online until 14 February plus every East of England foodstore will host an in-store voting event to make it easy for local shoppers to get involved. Voters will automatically be entered into a free prize draw to win £100 of shopping vouchers. www.eastofengland.coop/2015producer

n 7 January, one of Cambridge’s prettiest streets will be offering a special shopping promotion. Home to an array of boutiques, high street names and restaurants, Green Street will be tempting shoppers with special discounts and refreshments.

Just a few of the day and evening’s events include late night shopping at Harriets with a pianist playing, a free glass of wine with every a la carte meal at Bangkok City, refreshments and a free goody bag with every purchase at Oska and Modish will be serving fizz and nibbles and offering an additional 10 per cent off sale prices of its fabulous range of footwear. With further promotions set to be announced in due course, this is one event not to be missed.

Belfast Beds, Cambridge Opens new store

elfast Beds, Cambridge has opened a second store at Mitchams Corner on Chesterton Road. The store and warehouse at Coldhams Road will remain open, so you can now visit at either branch. The new store will offer a wide range of famous name beds, mattresses, recliner chairs and a wide choice of linens and pillows. Coldham’s Road, Cambridge, Cambs CB1 3EW Tel: 01223 411311

eastlife.co.uk | 13

12 East Life Valentines 2014 QP_Layout 1 09/12/2014 09:53 Page 1

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TEL 01638 667171

AROUND THE REGION Introducing the St Neots Community & Business Awards 2015

New Year and New Creative Learning Lounges at the New Wolsey theatre

new civic awards programme to recognise the efforts and impact of local individuals, groups and organisations has been launched in St Neots. The St Neots Community and Business Awards 2015 was officially launched at the St Neots Christmas Light Switch On in November, with St Neots Mayor Andrew Hansard announcing details of this new programme in his speech during the event. The St Neots Community and Business Awards 2015 consists of twelve key categories to recognise achievements by individuals and community groups, highlight local sporting excellence and to showcase business excellence within the town. The programme calls on the St Neots Community to put forward details of local individuals, groups or businesses that deserve to be recognised for their successes and impact. The new initiative has been developed on the back of an excellent community engagement campaign for the St Neots Neighbourhood Plan earlier last year, which highlighted the high level of interest in, support for and commitment to the town from local residents and businesses. A campaign to encourage nominations and applications is due to run until Friday 20 March, with entrants required to complete a simple application form to apply or nominate. Entries will be reviewed by an independent judging panel, led by St Neots Mayor Andrew Hansard, with a celebratory awards ceremony scheduled for Saturday 25 April 2015. More information is available at www.stneotsawards.co.uk

n Wednesday 21 January from 5.30pm, the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich invites teachers from local schools in East Anglia for their Creative Learning Lounge Re-launch. The New Wolsey will re-launch their Creative Learning Lounges to offer more engagement opportunities to schools than ever before. The Lounges will give teachers the chance to chat to the team, share creative practice and ideas, and build further relationships with the theatre. New for 2015, each session will include a creative workshop led by or based around the practice of a leading industry practitioner. These workshops will be designed to give insight into a variety of rehearsal processes, theatre techniques or a specific company’s practice and will provide invaluable tools for use in the classroom or rehearsal room. The New Wolsey’s Artistic Director Peter Rowe will be taking part in the first launch session this month talking about his creative practices. Teachers will also be given a new programme of events for schools, which will be launched this month and are invited to stay and enjoy the rock’n’roll pantomime that evening. Places are free but limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. To book your place email sthomas@wolseytheatre.co.uk or call 01473 295930

eastlife.co.uk | 15

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

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LIFESTYLE

A New Year, a New You W

ith the New Year comes the opportunity for a fresh start. Whether you want a healthier lifestyle or would like to lose weight, make 2015 the year it happens. From the truth about dieting, battling it out at a bootcamp and the latest fitness trends, read our motivational tips for achieving a new healthy lifestyle.

eastlife.co.uk | 19

LIFESTYLE

A Refreshing Retreat

So it’s been a festive, fun-filled, frantic Christmas and you’re still finding glitter in the carpet and turkey leftovers in the fridge. With 2015 now upon us, we no doubt ask ourselves, what next?

anuary is one of the most popular months for booking breaks and holidays. For most of us the Christmas period will have taken its toll. You’re back at our desks feeling sluggish and even more exhausted than we did before the festive break, so why not treat yourself to a little pampering? Throughout January some of the region’s most sought after spas are offering fabulous breaks perfect for banishing those back to work blues. Centre Parcs & Aqua Sana Spa To refresh, revive and reawaken the body and the senses, what better than a fresh forest break. Centre Parcs has hundreds of activities including sports, fitness classes, craft activities and children’s activities, all of which can bring mind and body to life. With so many activities, you can essentially tailor your break to suit your family and do as much or as little as you want. With cars banned from the Village during a break, it’s a great place for a bike ride, a gentle stroll or even your own nature walk. A new village has recently opened in Bedfordshire, adding to the Centre Parcs villages across the region. Tel: 03448 267 723 www.centerparcs.co.uk

20 | eastlife.co.uk

If you simply want to relax head to the Aqua Sana Spa. Located within Centre Parcs villages, the spa is also available to non-Centre Parcs visitors for a day and overnight experience. Aqua Sana Spas offer a relaxing experience that rejuvenates you from head to toe. Surrounded by natural forest you’ll feel immediately relaxed. There’s an assortment of steam, sauna and ice experiences as well as natural herbs and elements, which help relax and invigorate. When Eastlife visited the Aqua Spa at Elveden Forest we were pleasantly surprised with the options available, our personal favourite was the Greek inspired steam room – calm and refreshing it was ideal for taking a moment to yourself. The selection of steam rooms surrounds a steaming open-air swimming pool. Beautiful during the day as it is at night, the bubbling lit water is just too much to resist and we found ourselves indulging far too long and beginning to prune. The upper level of the spa makes way for pure relaxation. If you’re sleep deprived this is the place

LIFESTYLE

to go. Rows of waterbeds, snuggle chairs and a meditation room are the perfect place to nap. The outside decking area overlooking the treetops was a wonderful place to nestle down. A double waterbed with plenty of furry throws to keep warm, we found it difficult to pull ourselves away even though we had more to explore. Treatments were equally as relaxing and staff were knowledgeable and professional. This month treat yourself to the newly launched Elemis Skin Sparkle Spa day exclusive to Aqua Sana. The Spa Day includes a bespoke facial (40 minutes) and a complimentary mini treatment (15 minutes).

Congham Hall Hotel

We all know that winter isn’t great for our skin and this spa day is great to start brightening your skin and lifting those winter blues. Prices start from £99 per person and include unlimited access to the spa experiences, a delicious lunch at the Vitalé Café Bar, two treatments and complimentary towel and robe hire. Tel: 03448 266 205 www.aquasana.co.uk Congham Hall Hotel Congham Hall Hotel is running its popular Introductory Spa Package throughout January. Suitable for couples, groups of friends or even solo guests who crave some me time, the package is available for stays from Sunday to Thursday nights until 31 January. The package includes one night’s accommodation in a Good House room, full English breakfast, dinner in the hotel’s 2 AA Rosette restaurant, a relaxing 45-minute treatment from the Essential Collection which includes either a facial, massage or Indian head massage and full use of the swimming pool and spa facilities. The one-night package costs just from £137.50 per person based on two people sharing a double or twin room. The perfect bargain to beat the winter blues. Tel: 01485 600250 www.conghamhallhotel.co.uk Hanbury Manor The historic Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club makes a lasting impression. Set in beautiful landscaped grounds, which make for fantastic viewing especially on a frosty morning, Hanbury Manor is the perfect overnight or weekend getaway. The stately Jacobean home is grand in every aspect. From the high ceilings and ornate décor of the Oak Hall and comfortable rooms and stylish suites to the delicious mouth-watering food at the Zodiac Restaurant and Oakes Grill. An overnight stay will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. During the day take a stroll

Hanbury Manor, Herts , around the gardens, relax with a dip in the Jacuzzi and sweat out your stress in the steam room or sauna. There’s also a gym and pool for keeping up those healthy New Year resolutions. You’ll also find a range of treatments available. In the evening the Oakes Grill is perfect for an indulgent feast. Catering for all taste buds with a grill menu and selection of high quality fish, a threecourse meal is the perfect way to end your day – just forget about the diet. Eastlife highly recommends the Artisan plate for two to start complete with British salami with rosemary, halloumi, cured pork and homemade hummus. Fish lovers should certainly try the halibut while the Black Angus burger will be a challenge for even the biggest of eaters. Throughout January Hanbury Manor will be offering a one night pamper package featuring overnight accommodation with buffet breakfast, two 25 minute treatments per person, full use of spa facilities, a three course dinner at Oakes Grill and two course lunch on day of departure from just £144 per person. Tel: 01920 48 77 22 www.marriott.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 21

LIFESTYLE

E H T F O E L T BAT N

ew fitness fads pop over night, but sometimes the only way to truly shift those extra pounds is with a good old-fashioned boot camp.

ing there’s no chance of you getting bored as you might do whilst always using the same machines or doing the same routine in the gym.

Though boot camps are now popping up across the region, the concept has been used by servicemen for years. It’s an intense workout that leaves you breathless, but with toned abs and chiseled legs as the result, who cares about a little hard work?

“In addition to this, physical activity in the great outdoors has various significant benefits, such as burning up to 30 per cent more calories than doing the same workout indoors, as well as enjoying the beautiful scenery. At a BMF class, you can burn up to 600 calories in an hour, whilst it can also help to reduce anxiety and depression, enhance your mood and improve self-worth and body image.”

Garry Kerr, head of operations and training at British Military Fitness (BMF) said: “Boot camps have become increasingly popular as they are a great way to keep fit especially if people are disengaged with the gym and are seeking a new challenge. Working out in groups is highly motivational in comparison to working out alone - at the gym, you have to motivate yourself to turn up and then motivate yourself to train hard.” BMF run boot camp sessions across the country including Cambridge, Norwich, St Albans and Bedford. Though a boot camp may sound scary, reputable boot camps will be able to offer training for all levels of fitness. Garry added: “Despite people thinking boot camps may be scary and geared towards people who are already of a high fitness level, they are suitable for anyone. Every session is completely different, mean22| eastlife.co.uk

Celebrity fans With a mega amount of calories being torched an hour and motivational support, it’s clear to see why boot camps are fast becoming the number one choice for weight loss. With celebrity fans such as Tamsin Outhwaite and Made in Chelsea stars Spencer Matthews and Binky Felstead, No.1 Boot Camp in Norfolk is leading the way when it comes to fighting the flab. No 1 Boot Camp runs from Saturday to Saturday all year round at its base near Kings Lynn in Norfolk. It is for any level or fitness from someone who hasn’t done any exercise in years to the most dedicated gym-bunny. One of the camps recent success stories is that of

LIFESTYLE

S P M A C T O O HE B

ing

s stick e m i t e m o S ? b he fla t t h g i f o t g n i Look go... o t y a w t s e b e to basics is th

Hertford resident Claire Simcox, who lost an incredible 12 stone after a few trips to the boot camp. Her start weight was 27 stone and she dropped to a weight of 15 stone over several months. Mum of two Claire, 48, said: “At my heaviest I was 27 stone and a size 32. My doctor said if I carried on I may not make it into my 50s. I was determined to turn my life around. I’d never done any regular exercise before or gone to the gym so it was quite a shock to my system at first but I was inspired by the other women on the camp and they all became great mates and we all lost weight together. It completely changed my lifestyle and I feel so much more confident in myself.” No 1 Boot Camp trainer Andy Morris said: “The advantages of a boot camp over a gym are many. One of the big advantages is that it’s an intensive week of fitness that can change your body shape quickly and effectively.” At No 1 Boot Camp most of the trainers are former Army, Navy or RAF Physical Training Instructors (PTI) and Andy Morris is no exception. He said: “All the trainers are experts in fitness and nutrition. Our boot camps involve 4-5 hours and exercise spilt across a day, with around 2,000 calories burned and a healthy and nutritious menu of food which has 1,200 calories - clearly with that sort of output you are going to lose weight, but it’s done in a healthy way

that supports long-term weight loss.” Karen Mackenzie, co-owner of No 1 Boot Camp added: “If people get overweight and slip into bad habits, they don’t want a ‘quick fix’ - they want to learn long-term building blocks which they can use to achieve to permanent lifestyle change. People come to boot camp because they want to achieve a root and branch MOT on their entire attitude to fitness and nutrition.” Luxury lifting If the great outdoors and mud still terrifies you and you’d prefer to include a little pampering and luxury into your workout head to a Champneys Boot Camp. The luxury spa offers a great selection of camps including a two, four and seven night option. The boot camps are designed as a kick-start fitness programme and include accommodation, calorie controlled meals, nutrition advice, four to six exercise session per day and a range of treatments to relieve those sore muscles. With an average weight loss of 6.3lbs and an average inch loss of 4.5 inch at the seven-night boot camp, it’s worth every penny. Champneys will also be launching a virtual boot camp later this year. Whether you’ve never stepped foot in a gym in your life or you’re a fitness fanatic, a boot camp is the perfect way to shift those extra Christmas pounds. eastlife.co.uk | 23

LIFESTYLE

n o i t a r i p s m y

G J

oining the gym is a large financial commitment so it’s vital you make the right choice. If you’ve decided to stick to your resolution of joining a gym for the New Year take a look at some of the newest gyms, classes and fitness programmes across the region…

First chance to get fit on Ipswich’s Waterfront as gym opens Ipswich’s newest gym and the first on the town’s Waterfront is now officially open. The gym, the fifth in the Profiles “family”, offers great value and no minimum contract or joining fees that tie you in. Dedicated staff members are on hand to help you get and stay fit. It offers top of the range Pulse equipment, including the latest Cirrus smart consoles and software that will create your very own training and entertainment programme. The Profiles team is raring to go and would love to give you a guided tour and chat about your fitness needs. Tel 01473 219788 www.ipswich.gov.uk/content/profiles-gyms The Glassworks Health Club & Spa launches cutting-edge gym The Glassworks Spa, located next to Cambridge’s premiere boutique hotel, The Varsity Hotel, is a destination wellness centre. The gymnasium has been carefully designed to recreate a buzzing New York style space, with the latest equipment for an optimum work-out with personalisation and social features. 24| eastlife.co.uk

Functional training suites and touch screen media interfaces set the trend for ease of use and maximum feedback with each session. Brand new machines dispense with the loud drone of traditional equipment, making the Glassworks experience peaceful and pleasant. And it’s not just high-octane work-outs that are encouraged: The Glassworks offers three different types of yoga, as well as pilates. There is also a variety of small classes (maximum of 4 guests) that makes use of the functional equipment for interesting circuit work that builds a real sense of close team exercising. 2014 also saw the relaunch of the Spa area with its signature Jacuzzi area that overlooks the River Cam: surely one of the most peaceful spots in all of Cambridge. Heated relaxation benches allow guests to wind down in a luxury mosaic tiled space, before heading into the sauna and steam area, lit to feel that visitors are relaxing under twinkling stars. Tel: 01223 305060   www.theglassworksgym.co.uk Nordic walking works for everyone Whatever your goal, Nordic walking is a great way to get fit. If you’re looking to become more active, improve your fitness levels, lose weight, overcome a medical condition or simply enjoy the great outdoors, Nordic walking is for you. Nordic Walking uses special poles (not to be confused with trekking poles) to add two major benefits to walking. The use of poles means the upper body muscles are used as well as the legs. The poles help to propel the walker along – this means you work harder than usual yet the support given by the poles makes it feel easier.

LIFESTYLE

ns o i t p o m r gy u o y p u Weigh Nordic walking is the fastest growing fitness activity in the world and is used by individuals, trainers, health clubs, physios, doctors and health promoters because it is easy to learn, affordable and fun. It is a great way to get your whole body moving and to significantly improve the condition of your muscles, heart and lungs. It will boost your energy levels and help you to ward off medical conditions such as high blood pressure, stress and anxiety. Once you have learned the technique you will be able to include it into your everyday life and walk alone, with friends and family or with your local group. Tel: 07955 495 016 www.positivestepspt.co.uk New fitness trend has launched at PureGym Cambridge PureGym Cambridge members now have the opportunity to experience the hottest trend in fitness, with High Intensity Interval Training workouts from the Les Mills GRIT™ Series. The exclusive classes from the world’s leading group exercise brand Les Mills will officially launch within PureGym Cambridge on 1 January. The Les Mills GRIT™ Series workouts will be available as group exercise classes within PureGym Cambridge where members will be able to experience the fastest and most effective way to improve their fitness in classes which only last 30 minutes. By pushing the line between aerobic and anaerobic energy during exercise, it provides both cardiovascular exercise and strength training by giving the body time to recover and expend more effort for each exercise performed. Due to the increase in workload from the intensity of the exercises, workouts burn more calories than traditional aerobic activities like running or cycling. Tel: 0844 477 0005 www.puregym.com eastlife.co.uk | 25

...

COME & TRY... The workout that tones The workout that tones the whole body! the whole body! • Burns 46% more calories

• Burns 46% morewalking calories than ordinary than ordinary walking

• Great for neck, shoulder

• Great for neck, shoulder and back problems and back problems

• Easy on the knees and joints

Sociable,safe safe outdoor exercise ••Sociable, outdoor exercise Suitableforfor levels of ability ••Suitable allall levels of ability

Join us for a taster session -

Join us for a FREE taster please call for details session - please call for details Contact Kevin now on: Contact Kevin 07955 495 016now on: 07955 495016 kevin@positivestepspt.co.uk

Sessions at

kevin@positivestepspt.co.uk

www.positivestepspt.co.uk 26 | eastlife.co.uk

Needham M arket, West Stow , Ickworth an d Newmarke t

12 East Life Health & Spa 2014 FP_Layout 1 12/12/2014 10:28 Page 1

Relax, unwind & enjoy

A warm welcome and fantastic views await you at Uﬀord Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf and Spa. Set in 120 acres of beautiful historic parkland we have something for everyone.

Luxury Thermal Suite Spa Book time out in our Luxury Thermal Suite Spa which includes a hydro pool, mineral grotto, foot spas, aroma steam room, soft sauna, feature showers, relaxation zone and ice fountain. Sessions available from £20 per person.

Health Club Day passes (£13 per person) and monthly memberships (from £30.95 per person) are available for our Health Club entitling you to use the 33 station gym, 15 metre deck-level swimming pool, hot tub, steam room and sauna.

Complete the experience with a beauty treatment, massage, afternoon tea, or just relax over a cup of Paddy & Scott’s coffee whilst enjoying the fantastic view. Open to members, non-members and guests, 7 days a week.

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

FiTness Takes Flight

he words “the gym” genuinely terrify me. I’m always dubious of those people that declare their love for the gym, I just don’t trust them, surely no body likes working out that much, do they?

With my fear of posing on a treadmill firmly rooted, working out has always been a real challenge. Though my small 5’2” petite frame has never meant I’ve struggled with my weight (don’t hate me yet there’s more to come) I still have parts of my body like every woman that wobble and need a little help on the toning side. Every fitness class I’ve attended in the past has been mind numbingly boring, the same routine week after week, no definite results. I started to envision myself having to be cut out of my house by paramedics in 30 years time, that was until I discovered Studio Fly. Located in Ware, Hertfordshire, Studio Fly has opened up a whole new world of exercise. An 28| eastlife.co.uk

Forget slogging it out at the gym, there’is a new workout in town

experience like no other the studio offers a range of aerial fitness classes from hoop and silks to pole dancing and antigravity yoga. A mix of cardio, core strength and flexibility, each class is fun, different and challenges your ability. A grown-up alternative that takes the dream of joining the circus and focuses it on fitness, Studio Fly is not only toning and shaping the bodies of women across the region but boosting their confidence too. Classes are for all shapes, sizes, ages and abilities. No one is left behind, you work to your own pace and the support and motivation from trainers and owners Lisa Doling and Claire Mayes and other studio members is phenomenal. Whether it’s your first lesson and you’ve finally pulled yourself from the ground or whether you’re a year in and have finally mastered a move, you will feel as though you have conquered the world.

LIFESTYLE

One of the key factors that make Studio Fly so popular is its variety of classes and results. Lifting yourself from the ground may sound easy but trust me, it’s not. I started with a pole dancing class, “how hard can it be?” I thought, turns out, very – it’s a real test of core strength. My first class I couldn’t even hold myself on the pole without slipping to the ground, but as the weeks passed my strength grew and grew. With new strength, comes new bravery and confidence and some rather nice muscles. The buzz from achieving a new move encourages you to push yourself harder and harder. Hoop is equally as challenging and silks even more so yet you’ll be proud of every bruise and aching muscle. Lisa said: “The beauty of an aerial class is that you don’t feel like you are working out as you’re concentrating so much on a new achievement. You keep burning fat long after the workout.” Fun, fat burning and figure changing this might just be the best workout ever. “Our classes are for anyone that wants to get fit and is looking for a new challenge. For those that hate the gym, want to gain confidence, tone up, lose weight, learn a new skill and socialise,” added Lisa. “After becoming a mum I lost myself, pole dancing opened new doors for me and helped me regain confidence. I would have never discovered aerial fitness if it wasn’t for pole.” Not only has Lisa found herself, she’s also found a six pack! An antigravity yoga class is highly recommended. The benefits are huge; you decompress the spine, improve flexibility and strengthen core muscles as well as potentially burning up

to 650 calories per session – not bad for hanging upside down and swinging in a hammock. You’ll also leave a little bit taller, refreshed and motivated for the day. Studio Fly also offers supporting classes alongside its aerial fitness including conditioning, flexibility and choreography classes. Membership is based on a credit system where you can pick and choose the amount of classes you wish to do. The total body workouts at Studio Fly have tested me like no other class. It’s also one of the only workouts I’ve been to where I’ve felt comfortable enough to attend a class without knowing anyone. Each visit is like a night out with friends. Just one month at Studio Fly and you’ll notice results. My abs have started to tone, my arms more defined and I have back muscle (who knew that was even possible?). Studio Fly is for anyone and everyone. As a child I was never the type to hang upside down off the monkey bars or practice handstands, the fact at aged 27 I am now capable of doing a headstand (and enjoy practicing them daily) is extraordinary. See, who needs the gym, when you can simply runaway and join the circus?

Eastlife exclusive

Studio Fly is offering Eastlife readers the chance to claim a FREE daytime taster throughout January. Simply email info@studiofly.co.uk & quote: EASTLIFE

eastlife.co.uk | 29

Transform your body & your life in 2015 with

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LIFESTYLE

BEAT THE BULGE The truth about our dieting

hristmas is now over and it’s likely you’re now regretting consuming those fatty treats. It’s claimed that more than a quarter (34 per cent) of women were already planning to go on a diet in the New Year prior to Christmas. However new research revealed by Bodychef shows one in six will fall off the diet bandwagon after less than one week. Bodychef, which prepares freshly-cooked meals and delivers them direct to your door, polled 1,000 women to understand the reasons behind why they embark on a diet and the struggles they are faced with. With 65 per cent considering themselves to be overweight, it’s no surprise that women will try to diet at least twice a year. Most women lose an average of 10lbs each time they diet, however 10 per cent fail or cheat after just 24hrs. Lack of motivation (56 per cent), not losing weight quick enough (17 per cent), having too many social events (18 per cent), stress (18 per cent) and work colleagues bringing in temping goodies (16 per cent) were the most common factors people stated for making them fail their diets.

From the women polled, 65 per cent said they found the whole diet process confusing, with 27 per cent even admitting they were so muddled with what they should and shouldn’t be eating that they actually put on weight. Jayne Ritchie, Joint Founder of Bodychef said: “Our research has told us that 36 per cent of women want a diet that is easy to stick to.” Dieting is a popular past time for women all over Great Britain. The results from the research have shown that women in Aberdeen are the biggest dieters with many spending more than three months out of the year on one. Those in Norwich are not far behind with women spending an average of 95 days watching what they eat. Women in Brighton and Gloucester are the least diet addicts, spending an average of just one month trying to lose weight. If you’re thinking of shedding those extra pounds this month, be sensible and research the best option for you. Jumping at the latest dieting fad may seem easy but will it have lasting results?

eastlife.co.uk | 31

Challenge yourself in 2015 It’s never too late to study a degree... We are pleased to announce that University Centre Peterborough is offering a variety of courses for its January 2015 intake. These include: • • • • • • • •

Business Management Computer Science Computing and Information Systems Crime and Investigative Studies Performing Arts Construction Integrated Engineering Public Services

These courses along with UCP’s excellent links with industry will give you an invaluable experience in your chosen field and dramatically increase your career prospects. Degree level students are also offered opportunities to receive financial help, including a Tuition Fee Loan to cover your fees in full, a Maintenance Grant, and a Bursary from UCP.

UCP has the lowest price fees in the region Only £7000 per year for full-time undergraduate courses

To top it all, UCP has excellent success and satisfaction rates. 2012/13 shows 83% of students achieving a 2.1 or above and 96% student satisfaction in BSc Computing and Information Systems.*

Apply for courses starting in January NOW www.peterborough.ac.uk/ucp 0845 196 5750 ucpenquiries@anglia.ac.uk *According to the National Student Survey (NSS) results 2013

EDUCATION

Education news Inspirational headteacher improves school’s Ofsted rating

headteacher’s commitment to improving their school has resulted in outstanding leadership and management, according to government Ofsted inspectors. Excellent attitudes and a culture of strong values are amongst a few of the areas praised in the Newborough Church of England Primary School Ofsted report following a visit from inspectors in November 2014.

Norwich School West Side Story cast perform to a sell-out audience at Norwich Playhouse

he Norwich School cast of West Side Story wowed audiences with their fantastic staging of the musical at the Norwich Playhouse at the end of last year.

The sell-out production told the heart-breaking tale of star-crossed lovers Tony and Maria in a blaze of movement, dance and song. Audiences followed gangs the Jets and Sharks as they battled to own the streets of New York City. Caught in their path are Maria, played by Hattie Harvey in L6 and Tony played by U5 pupil Rob Ekbery, who fall in love despite their different backgrounds. The show included a succession of show stopping numbers including ‘Tonight’, ‘Something’s Coming’ and ‘Somewhere’ accompanied by the fantastic Orchestra. The cast performed in front of a jam-packed theatre; the show was sold out on every night of the performance. In addition Norwich School has also revealed its examination figures: A-level: A*: 28.2%; A*- A: 66.3%; A*- B: 88.9% GCSE: A*: 41.7%; A*- A: 75.2%

Located in Peterborough the school was rated ‘good’ overall with areas of ‘outstanding’ practice - a big step up from its previous ‘requires improvement’ grading in October 2013. Inspectors observed 17 lessons and looked at samples of work from pupils in Years 1, 2 and 6. Leadership and management, the behaviour and safety of children and early years provision were found to be outstanding. The quality of teaching and the achievement of pupils were also praised as good. The report stated that both of these have contributed strongly to improved rates of progress and rising attainment since the last inspection.   Inspectors added that leadership and management of the school is outstanding because the headteacher is an inspirational leader. His skills and expertise are complemented by those of other leaders. Inspectors also praised the strong and highly skilled team of other leaders who are charged with the task of not only improving the quality of the curriculum, but also how effectively it is taught. Headteacher Alex Hope said: “We are delighted with the report – all of us, the teachers and the children. We believe this is an accurate representation of the school and reflects the hard work we’ve all put in to achieve this.”   In Peterborough 81 per cent of our schools are now rated good or outstanding by Ofsted.

eastlife.co.uk | 33

Tring_Junior_AUD_148x107_Dec14.qxp_Layout 1 08/12/2014 11:55 Page 1

GIVING TALENTED CHILDREN A HEAD START TO A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE Tring Park for young people with outstanding talent in Ballet, Dance, Drama, Musical Theatre and Music Co-educational boarding and day school for children from age 8 – 19 Outstanding academic education to A Level

Auditions: tringpark.com/applying Prep Taster Morning: tringpark.com/prep-taster-morning www.tringpark.com info@tringpark.com or tel. 01442 824255 Photo: Brian O’Carroll Registered charity no. 1040330

Norwich High School GDST (3-18 years)

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

34 | eastlife.co.uk

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

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

36 | eastlife.co.uk

01206 216420

EDUCATION

School Open Days Make the most of the opportunity to explore the schools in the region so that you can select the one best suited to your child CAMBRIDGESHIRE Peterborough Regional College Thurs 5 Feb The open event will give you the opportunity to find out what you could study at Peterborough Regional College. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a young person thinking of leaving school and taking the next step after GCSEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or A Levels or if you are an adult looking to enhance your skills and study for a qualification, PRC can help. By studying here you could dramatically increase your level of employability with realistic working environments and purpose built workshops. Park Crescent, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE1 4DZ Tel: 0845 872 8722 www.peterborough.ac.uk King Slocombe School of Dance On request Long acknowledged as the oldest, largest and - some would say - finest dance school in the whole of Cambridge, The King Slocombe School Of Dance has developed an enviable reputation for not only reaching the highest possible standards in exam level dance classes, but has a large number of pupils now successfully performing in the West End, on Broadway, on TV and in many other locations. 8 Emmanuel Rd, Cambridge CB1 1JW Tel: 01223 356023 www.kingslocombe.com NORFOLK Norwich High School for Girls From Mon 9 March Norwich High School for Girls is an independent day school for girls. It has an enviable reputation for consistent academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care for each individual and a rich array of co-curricular programmes across many different physical, creative, intellectual and service activities. 95 Newmarket Road, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 2HU Tel: 01603 453265 www.norwichhigh.gdst.net Hethersett Old Hall School Sat 7 March Hethersett Old Hall School is one of the leading independent schools in Norfolk for boys aged 3-11 and girls aged 3-18. The school seek to maximise the potential of each individual, developing talents and skills in a caring and successful Christian community. Norwich Road, Hethersett, Norwich, Norfolk NR9 3DW Tel: 01603 810390 www.hohs.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 37

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

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

NEW Advert 107X148mm AUG 14cp_Layout 1 14/08/2014 08:56 Page 1 Eastlife-Jan-Ad.indd 3

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 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

38 | eastlife.co.uk

17/12/2014 16:46

OPEN DAY Saturday Saturday April 4th 25th October

10.00am 10.00am -12.30pm

- 12.30pm

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

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

A week’s unlimited travel on the bus network for just

£30

*£20 ticket available for students with a Hertfordshire SaverCard. Ticket valid on most Hertfordshire bus services. Daily Explorer tickets also available. Can be purchased on the bus. For information please visit www.intalink.org.uk/explorer.

www.intalink.org.uk

HIGH ELMS MANOR SCHOOL

INDEPENDENT PREPARATORY DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS & GIRLS

)F U IF S T F U U 0M E )B M M 4D IPPM * OEF QF OEF OU EB Z T D IPPM G PS H J S M T B OE CPZ T XJ U I CPB S EJ OH G PS H J S M T G S PN

For an outstanding education, discover Hethersett Old Hall School * Our children learn in small classes in a friendly, happy school * Children are taught individually by experienced teachers * They love learning through an exciting and extensive curriculum * We can help children with special needs including gifted children * Children of all abilities flourish into motivated, confident learners * Breakfast, after-school and holiday clubs are available * Extra-curricular activities include ju-jitsu, horse riding and piano

Open Morning is Thursday 29th of January 9.15am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11.30am enquiries@highelmsmanorschool.com www.highelmsmanorschool.com Tel: 01923 681103

Call to arrange a personalised tour for your family! Or ask about our open event on 7th March 2015 ((( # & # '! ) "$' % & # & # '! )

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU? Find out what we have to offer at our upcoming Information Days: ď ˝ WEDNESDAY 14 JANUARY 4-7PM ď ˝ FRIDAY 30 JANUARY 4-7PM ď ˝ SATURDAY 31 JANUARY 10AM-2PM

ď&#x20AC;¨ 08000 224556 ď&#x20AC;¸ www.eastonotley.ac.uk ď&#x20AC;Ş info@eastonotley.ac.uk 40 | eastlife.co.uk

EDUCATION BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Tring Park School Fri 8 May Tring Park School for the Performing Arts is one of a tiny handful of residential and day schools in the UK that stand at the forefront of specialist performing arts education. At Tring Park talented young people from 8 – 19 can specialise in Dance, Drama, Musical Theatre or Commercial Music, whilst gaining excellent academic qualifications. Tring Park has a thriving Prep Department catering for pupils aged 8 - 11 years and is set within an inspiring, creative environment in Tring Park’s Rothschild mansion steeped in fascinating history. Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 5LX Tel. 01442 824255 www.tringpark.com St Francis College Sat 25 April St Francis College is a girls school offering an excellent, modern education based on traditional values. Teaching classes remain small, ensuring every girl receives individual attention to fulfil her potential and this has been reflected in the school’s recent A level success. Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 3PJ Tel: 01462 670511 www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

SUFFOLK St Joseph’s College Ipswich TBC St Joseph’s College is renowned for the support, focus and all-round education it brings to each individual student. With high praises from its students, it’s no surprise that achievements come in many forms at the College including numerous sporting, arts, cultural and academic successes. Students regularly take on new challenges in disciplines such as music, dance, art, photography and drama again reflecting the all-round nature of the College. Belstead Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP2 9DR Tel: 01473 690281 www.stjos.co.uk Fairstead House School TBC Fairstead House School is a co-educational independent day school and Nursery for children aged 3-11, situated close to the centre of historic Newmarket, headquarters of the ‘Sport of Kings’ and adjacent to the famous gallops in the attractive county of Suffolk. Fairstead House is proud of its friendly, caring and happy community with a family system and ethos. Fordham Road, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7AA Tel :01638 662318 www.fairsteadhouseschool.co.uk

ESSEX St Mary’s School From Wed 4 March St. Mary’s School is an independent day school for girls in Colchester. The school is renowned for its caring atmosphere and dynamic, girl-friendly academic curriculum balanced with exciting sport, drama, music, art and extra-curricular activities to encourage happy girls to get the most out of their education and to achieve the best GCSE results in North Essex. 91 Lexden Road, Colchester, Essex CO3 3RB Tel: 01206 572544 www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk Felsted School Sat 9 May A leading co-educational, independent, boarding and day school for boys and girls. In this ‘home from home’ every boy and girl is exposed to a wealth of opportunities. Their talents are nourished and every individual’s personal growth is encouraged to flourish in an atmosphere of diversity and excellence, intellectual curiosity and challenge. Felsted, Dunmow, Essex CM6 3LL Tel: 01371 822600 www.felsted.org

eastlife.co.uk | 41

first for training & skills

New Year New Opportunities!

m/cambrid .co g ok

onalcolleg e egi er

e us @ faceb lik o

• LEISURE CLASSES • APPRENTICESHIPS • FREE ENGLISH & MATHS • PROFESSIONAL & WORK RELATED • HIGHER EDUCATION & ACCESS TO HE • TRAINING FOR THE UNEMPLOYED • SERVICES FOR BUSINESS • FULL-TIME LEARNING

KINGS HEDGES ROAD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 2QT TEL: 01223 418200 ENQUIRY@CAMRE.AC.UK

42| eastlife.co.uk

www.camre.ac.uk

Inspired Learning

Colchester Royal Grammar School Colchester Royal Grammar School Give us a call

01604 765765

CRGS is an 11-18 selective grammar school which admits boys from Year 7 and had a co-educational Sixth Form. CRGS has been top of the government’s official performance tables for A level results for the last 8 years. In 2014 CRGS received 40 Oxbridge offers and over 20 medical offers! Colchester Royal Grammar School,

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

CRGS provides a richRoad, education for its students and 3ND promotes their 6Colchester Lexden Colchester, CO3 Royal Grammar School, personal development through pastoral care, extracurricular 6 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3ND activities509100 and leadership opportunities. Tel: 01206 - www.crgs.co.uk Admission 11+ is through selection tests and at 16+ is based on Tel:at01206 509100 - www.crgs.co.uk performance at GCSE. CRGS is situated in a pleasant location close to the town centre and has extensive playing fields close by.

6 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3ND Tel: 01206 509100 www.crgs.co.uk

Independent School of the Year*

*Stephen Perse Foundation, Independent School Awards 2014

Come for a tour of Dame B’s and experience the different aspects of life at the School. Contact admissions@damebradburys.com

Dame Bradbury’s School A Stephen Perse Foundation School

01799 522348 | www.damebradburys.com eastlife.co.uk | 43 EastLifeJan15quarter.indd 1

03/12/2014 14:16:06

FASHION

Shop til you drop W

ho can resist the lure of the January sales? Everything you need at fabulously low prices. If you run the risk of breaking the bank, read our guide of how to grab a bargain… I’ll openly admit it I’m a massive shopaholic especially when it comes to the January sales. I’m one of those crazy people that get up at 5am of the Next Boxing Day sale (depending on the severity of a Christmas hangover of course) but it really is a great opportunity to grab some bargains. In today’s money tight climate it can’t hurt to be frugal once in a while and it would appear the nation agrees with me. Last year online sales rose by

44| eastlife.co.uk

8.9 per cent in January, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Retail Sales, January 2014 report found. In the January sales prices are slashed on everything from clothing to electronics and home furnishings to holidays. Armed with a sensible pair of shoes and determined attitude you can bag a bargain. Many High Street stores start their sales immediately after Christmas. This year department store favourites John Lewis will launch its sale from 27 December and House of Fraser even earlier on the 26 December. However, don’t worry if you weren’t the first through the door, January shoppers can still snap up sale items as most sales will last until the end of January with even further reductions taking place on the last few days.

FASHION

Where to start Before you head into the crowds it’s vital to have a clear idea what you need. Though it’s tempting to buy lots of this season’s must-have clothing or accessories, will you really wear it this time next year? Pre-sale online research and making a list of key items will stop you wasting your pennies. Generally department stores are ideal for savvy buyers as it has everything under one roof. Choose your company If you’re not brave enough to go it alone, choose a shopping companion that is honest and will tell you the truth about the clothes you are thinking of buying. Partners are generally a no go, they will sulk their way around the store making you miss the good stuff and mothers are dangerous territory too as they will claim you look good in everything. Choose your coshopper wisely. Be prepared Changing rooms are hell on earth during the sale season. Long queues and tropical temperature cubicles are enough to make you throw in the towel. Avoid having to try clothes on by wearing a thin outfit under your coat so you can simply slip items over the top and make use of the store full-length mirrors. Think bigger Yes the sales are great for picking up clothing and home furnishings, but those who save the most are those that think bigger than material items. Planning a wedding? Official statistics show there are usually about a sixth of the number of weddings in January that there are in August, meaning it’s the perfect time to haggle for good deals. We all know January is rather depressing, so why not escape your blues with a holiday. Flights from the UK are far less packed with holidaymakers and business travellers in the first weeks of January and the time is referred to in the industry as the “dead zone”. Depending on the destination and whether it’s at its low or peak season, with some time, effort and research you may be able to find some cheap flights to put a smile on your face.

Shopping hotspots intu Chapelfield, Norwich Most retailers at intu Chapelfield will be holding sales including Zara, Boots and House of Fraser. Discounts of around 50% can usually be expected. Shoppers can visit the intu Chapelfield website for discount highlights and to keep up-to-date with the latest sales information as it happens, shoppers can visit the intu Chapelfield facebook page or follow on twitter@intuchapelfield. The Galleria, Hatfield, Herts To help you turn over a new style leaf in 2015, the experts at Hertfordshire’s leading outlet shopping centre The Galleria gave their insider tips on how to bag a bargain. From 18 December until 19 January they will be holding an exclusive clearance event, with further discounts on outlet prices. Invest in the classics Brands like Jaeger, Ghost and French Connection are perfect for finding investment pieces like chic coats, soft leather bags and classic evening dresses that will be future wardrobe staples. In the sales, you can get discounts of up to 60% off regular retail prices, so it’s the time to buy those big ticket items. Design your day Admit it; we all have those bad sales decisions hiding at the back of the cupboard. To avoid this pitfall, make a wish list of pieces you’d like to find that will complement your wardrobe and bring it right up to date. Look at what stores are on offer so you don’t miss out on any of your favourite brands and, if you can, make a day of it. Get in early, when stock has been refreshed so you’ve got plenty of time to mull over your purchases at lunch in one of the many restaurants.

eastlife.co.uk | 45

Sizes 8 - 20 stocked We are open… Tuesday - Friday, 10am - 5pm and Saturday, 9.30am - 4.30pm

MBU105857•1122•D•PW (1)

Quality pre-owned ladies fashion and designer labels at an affordable price. Visit us at 8 Sun Lane, Newmarket to see our wide selection of clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories.

“Style “Style doesn’t doesn’t have have to to come come at at aa price price as as we we can can prove prove at at the the dressing dressing Room” Room”

8 Sun Lane,ladies Newmarket, CB8 8EW Quality pre-owned fashion and designer Telephone: 01638 667778 labels at an affordable www.thedressingroomnewmarket.co.uk price. Visit us at 8 Sun Lane, Newmarket to see our wide selection of clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories.

Dressing Room qtr.indd 1

Sizes 8 - 20 stocked Independent distributor of Forever Living Aloe Vera products. GIFT VOUCHERS ARE AVAILABLE

8 Sun Lane, Newmarket, CB8 8EW Telephone: 01638 667778 www.thedressingroomnewmarket.co.uk

46| eastlife.co.uk

02/04/2012 12:43

N aut

Tele Aberdeen N

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

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

eastlife.co.uk | 47

Recently divorced or separated from a signiﬁcant relationship?

Suffering from feelings of shock, disbelief, rejection, guilt, anger or bitterness? Alone with these issues or receiving misguided advice?

Divorced or separated for some time?

Feel you’ve got it together – what about bitterness or resentment? New relationships – are the same familiar problems recurring?

WEDDING SPECTACULARS SUNDAY 11 JANUARY 2015 ST. ANDREW’S & BLACKFRIARS’ HALLS, ST. ANDREW’S PLAIN, NORWICH More information and Pre-register online at www.theweddingguide.info/standrews

SUNDAY 25 JANUARY 2015 BEDFORD SCHOOL, DE PARYS AVENUE, BEDFORD

Whatever stage you’re at

The workshop will help you gain a better understanding of what you are going through

You can go through it or grow through it

Call 07000 781889 info@drw.org.uk

www.drw.org.uk

More information and Pre-register online at www.theweddingguide.info/bedfordschool

SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 KNEBWORTH BARNS CONFERENCE & BANQUETING CENTRE, KNEBWORTH, HERTS.

More information and Pre-Register online at www.theweddingguide.info/knebworth NEW E SUNDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2015 VENU PENDLEY MANOR,

COW LANE TRING, HERTS.

More information and Pre-Register online at www.theweddingguide.info/pendley

SUNDAY 8 MARCH 2015 THE ATHENAEUM, ANGEL HILL, BURY ST EDMUNDS

More information and Pre-register online at www.theweddingguide.info/athen

Open Tuesday –Saturday

Veils

Please ring for an appointment

Tiaras & jewellery Bridesmaids dresses Bridal gowns Prom dresses

More information and Pre-register online at www.theweddingguide.info/hi-norwich

TBC MARCH/APRIL 2015 CRIPPS COURT, MAGDALENE COLLEGE, CHESTERTON ROAD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 3AD More information and Pre-register online at www.theweddingguide.info/magdalene

Comfortable surroundings Private appointments available

52 High Street, March, Cambridgeshire PE15 9JR 01354 650444 info@theweddingmarch.co.uk www.theweddingmarch.co.uk 48 | eastlife.co.uk

SUNDAY 22 MARCH 2015 THE HOLIDAY INN NORWICH – NORTH, (BY THE AIRPORT), CROMER ROAD, NORWICH

All shows 11am to 4pm with Fabulous Fashion Shows at 12.30 & 2.30pm Each show with up to 50 exhibition stands

Go to www.theweddingguide.info

Free admission & Charity Raffles Organiser : Stephanie Callister-Jarrold 01787 460593 Details correct at time of going to press – please check website/local press before travelling

WEDDINGS

Plan the Perfect Wedding Planning a wedding needn’t be stressful, take a look at our top tips for organising your big day

f you were given the ultimate present this Christmas and are now sporting a dazzling engagement ring, chances are you already have an unhealthy obsession with Pinterest and have spent a small fortune on the latest magazines. Planning a wedding is all part of the fun of being engaged. From budget planning to traditions and wedding symbols to the rings, choosing the perfect venue, finding your dream dress and where you may like to consider for your honeymoon, take a read of our top tips for planning your special day without a hitch. As wedding season approaches Eastlife will be your monthly guide for everything you need to know to kick-start your wedding plans. From venue open days and the biggest wedding fairs to exclusive advice from the some of the regions most respected wedding industry professionals and gorgeous bridal accessories, we have it covered.

Wedding planning checklist 1. Set a date and make arrangements to see either the vicar or the registrar. Ask about giving notice dates. 2. Book the reception venue and caterers. 3. Draw up a guest list with the help of both families and send save the dates for up to a year in advance. 4. Choose your bridesmaids, best man and ushers. 5. Send out your wedding invitations. 6. Book your honeymoon. 7. Shop until you drop for that wedding dress, bridesmaids’dresses, accessories and the wedding rings. A wedding dress should be purchased at least eight months in advance so you don’t have to rush last minute alterations. 8. Book all the transport required, the photographer, hairdresser, make up artist and order the cake. 9. Prepare your wedding present list. 10. Organise floral arrangements, bouquets etc. 11. Keep track of who accepts/declines invitations etc. 12. Finalise numbers for the reception, notify caterers, hold a wedding dress rehearsal and finally, re-check all details from the cars to the cake and from the flowers to the photography. Remember: It’s important to book early if you’re planning to get married at the height of the summer season. eastlife.co.uk | 49

061857 23/09/2014 10:32 Page 1

Situated in the breathtaking beauty of the Hertfordshire / Essex countryside, Down Hall Country House Hotel provides an exquisite backdrop to your special day.

Wedding Showcase

Where your dreams are turned into perfect reality

Sunday 18th January 11am until 4pm

No Appointment Necessary

Down Hall Country House Hotel Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Nr Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stortford, Hertfordshire CM22 7AS Tel: +44 (0) 1279 731 441 Fax: +44 (0) 1279 730 416 Email: weddings@downhall.co.uk

Please see our website for more special offers www.downhall.co.uk

50 | eastlife.co.uk

Weddings at Wherstead Park

...Simply better

Call Lesley on 01473 786001

www.whersteadpark.co.uk

52| eastlife.co.uk

Image credit: weddig catwalk, Shutterstock.com

WEDDINGS

Wedding Diary Dates Your guide to this year’s regional wedding fairs, open days and bridal events

anuary and February see the arrival of a brand new wedding season as the region’s bridal designers and wedding suppliers get ready for another busy year ahead.

If you’re newly engaged or are planning saying “I do” in 2015, a wedding exhibition is the perfect place to get a little inspiration and make contact with reputable suppliers - you may even find the dress of your dreams. Take a look at our handy guide to this year’s biggest events… NORFOLK 11 Jan Wedding Spectacular 11am – 4pm St Andrews Hall, Norwich, NR3 1AU With some 50 leading suppliers in the Halls, brides-to-be have the opportunity to view some of the very best businesses in Norfolk plus the chance to see the Fabulous Fashion Shows with outfits for all of the wedding party. This event is a must for all brides-to-be and their families.

1 Feb Norfolk Brides Wedding Fair 11am – 3pm Great Yarmouth Town Hall, Hall Plain, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2QF With over 40 finest wedding exhibitors offering their services, including bridal gown stores, wedding cakes suppliers, photographers, florists and many others the wedding fair looks set to repeat last year’s enormous success. 21-22 Feb EDP Wedding Show 10am – 4pm Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, Norwich, NR5 0TT One of the biggest fairs in Norfolk, the show offers everything you need for planning your big day. Brides-to-be can watch four professional catwalk shows and explore over 150 exhibitors. 1 March The Stunning Spring Wedding Fair 10am – 4pm The Forum, Norwich, NR2 1TF A brand new wedding fair in the heart of the city, bringing together specialists from across the region to help bring wedding dreams to life.

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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.

Heritage Brides at Hatfield House Couture. Quirky. Classic. Exclusive stockist of Terry Fox and Maria Senvo in Hertfordshire.

01707 707842 www.heritagebrides.co.uk 54 | eastlife.co.uk

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

Tattersalls Events

WEDDINGS

SUFFOLK 18 Jan The Apex Wedding Fair 11am-3pm The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD Chat with wedding suppliers, enter a fab competition, grab some lunch at the café, listen to live music and browse around 60 exhibitors. There will be goody bags on arrival with extra gifts and samples for the first 50 brides. 15 Feb The Spring Wedding Show 10.30am – 3pm Kesgrave Hall, Hall Road, Ipswich, IP5 2PU Up to 40 wedding suppliers will be on hand offering their expertise on everything you could possibly need to make your wedding day perfect and just how you want it to be. 22 Feb The Suffolk Wedding Show 11am – 3pm Wherstead Park, The Street, Wherstead, Ipswich, IP9 2BJ The Suffolk Wedding Show is your chance to meet the best local businesses who work to make your wedding spectacular, from chair covers and balloons to the venue itself. 8 March Wedding Spectacular at The Athenaeum 11am – 4pm The Athenaeum, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1LU With up to 40 leading suppliers, brides-to-be have the opportunity to view some of the very best businesses in Suffolk so this is the ideal event to help with the planning of your wedding and an opportunity to view this stunning venue. CAMBRIDGESHIRE 17-18 Jan Posh Events Wedding Fair 11am – 4pm (starts noon on 18 Jan) Peterborough United Football Club, London Road, Peterborough, PE2 8AL The event will showcase a range of local exhibitors such as florists, bridal wear, bakers, djs and more. 25 Jan The Newmarket Wedding Show 11am – 4pm The Millennium Grandstand, Rowley Mile Racecourse, Newmarket, CB8 0TG The best suppliers from the surrounding areas of Suffolk and Cambridgeshire will be available on the day. With around 145 exhibitors, the show is a day out in itself. There will also be a bridal fashion show, demonstrations, entertainment as well as tips and ideas from all the wedding show suppliers going on throughout the day.

22 Feb St Ives East meet West Wedding Show 11am – 3pm The Burgess Hall, 1 Leisure St Ives, St. Ives, PE27 6WU There will be up to 50 exhibitors including cakes, photographers, discos, stationery, Indian jewellery, hair and beauty, bridal wear, staging and so much more. Free goody bags for the first 100 brides. 22 March A Truly Scrumptious Wedding Show 11am – 3pm Menzies Cambridge Hotel & Golf Club, Bar Hill, CB23 8EU Up to 32 local exhibitors will be delighted to showcase and help you plan your special day. With a catwalk show, musicians, ideas and inspiration, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

eastlife.co.uk | 55

eastlife.co.uk | 57

THE PERFECT VENUE FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY AT THE GARDEN OF THE ROSE

Royal National Rose Society, The Gardens of the Rose, Chiswell Green, St Albans, AL2 3NR Contact our event coordinator Tel: 0845 8334344 | www.rnrs.org.uk | ceremonies@rnrs.org.uk

58 | eastlife.co.uk

WEDDINGS BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS 25 Jan Hanbury Manor Wedding Show 11am – 3pm Hanbury Manor, Ware, SG12 0SD Elegant period spaces, open fireplaces and lovely outdoor venues lend a special air to this event. The wedding fashion show will take place at 12pm and 2pm. 8 Feb The Stevenage Wedding Fair 11am – 4pm Holiday Inn Stevenage, St. George’s Way, Stevenage, SG1 1HS See the latest trends in weddings and meet with local suppliers and specialists. Free goody bag for all brides.

ESSEX 18 Jan Down Hall Wedding Open Day 11am – 4pm Down Hall Country House Hotel, Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, CM22 7AS Get a glimpse of this stunning venue and find out what your wedding day could be like plus meet a selection of hand-picked recommended suppliers. 1 Feb The Gazette Ultimate Essex Wedding Show 10.30am – 3.30pm Charter Hall, Leisure World, Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, CO1 1YH With over 90 wedding professionals and a huge array or wedding goods and services, from photobooths to mobile bars and cakes to cars, you are sure to find everything you need to make your special day perfect. Catwalk shows take place throughout the day showing the latest in bridal fashion, formal wear and menswear. 21-22 Feb The Heart Essex Wedding Show 10am – 4pm The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN One of the most popular wedding shows in Essex, which offers the opportunity to browse a huge range of suppliers and watch a number of fashion shows throughout the day. This year’s event will be hosted by TOWIE star Lydia Bright.

1 March The Watford Wedding Show 11am – 4pm Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN The Watford Wedding Show is the largest wedding fair to take place annually in Watford. The show itself will be show casing over 70 amazing exhibitors for you to browse throughout the day, there will also be fashion shows taking place on the day at 12pm and 2:30pm. 4 – 5 April The Grande Weddings Showcase 11am to 5pm Arena MK, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK1 1ST A new and eagerly anticipated national wedding show, guests can sample modern fusion cuisine in the Grande Dining Experience, English tea and sandwiches at the High Tea Café, indulge in the Champagne Bar or reserve a seat in the Style It Yourself hub and learn top secrets tips by the leaders in the wedding industry. For the quirky and individual, The Vintage Boutique is a must for the bride in love with everything vintage. One of the key features of the show is the glamorous upper floor, the Bridal Boudoir. The luxurious setting is the ultimate in pure indulgence where the bride-to-be will be waited on hand and foot. Don’t forget to look out for our East Weddings Guide 2015 available at a range of exhibitions across the region or get a little pinspiration by visiting our Pinterest page at www.pinterest.com/eastlifemag

22 March Stoke by Nayland Hotel: Wedding Fayre 11am – 4pm Keepers Lane, Leavenheath, Nr Colchester CO5 4PZ An opportunity to view this stunning venue, browse 45 quality exhibitors and watch two fashion shows. There will be a goody bag for brides and the chance to win some fabulous prizes.

eastlife.co.uk | 59

Priory Hall www.prioryhall.com Exclusively Yours

01473 823185

07711 321907

We provide the wow factor... you bring your dreams. Together weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the perfect match!

A venue as individual as you.

www.johnharrisphotography.co.uk

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

www.manningtongardens.co.uk

60 | eastlife.co.uk

...2015..the year to feel delicious... x 8 High Street, Olney, Buckinghamshire MK46 4BY 01234 714814 www.atrubys.com

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

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 service to each Hogyour roastsspecial and exclusivity Our venue. attention to detail detailand andpersonalised personalized service to individual each indi-couple is wedding breakfast in our library.and Make day to this beautiful second to none, and nothing is too much trouble to ensure vidual couple is second to none. personalized to your requirements, as much or as little 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 siveorofinformal venue hire, drinkswith reception and towedding breakfast. Each wedding is bespoke to our each couple on in their special day, 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: As a team we have extensive experience of wedding planning, aboutmost of your life. 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

£500

wedding photography From

www.pzazzphotography.com Mobile: 07917 190258 Tel: 01525 792942 Email: info@pzazzphotography.com

eastlife.co.uk | 61

MANTLE BUSINESS CENTRES GROUP CELEBRATES ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR Mantle Business Centres group offers prestigious offices and meeting space in strategic locations throughout the East of England. Currently operating centres in Cambridge, Chelmsford and Stansted, the group has plans for further centres, including at Duxford (The Old Officer’s Mess) which will open in Autumn 2015. All of the group’s centres offer very high quality working environments, with carefully considered interior design throughout, and – above all – top class customer service. In a recent survey, 100% of clients said they would recommend the group’s services to a colleague or friend. All of the office space is fully serviced, meaning that clients do not have to worry about buying furniture, setting up their own broadband line or telephone system – or even buying tea bags! It’s all provided within the monthly Licence Fee. The group also offers virtual office services, which are great for people who work from home or are out on the road a lot. These clients can use the group’s professional mail handling and call answering services, for a fraction of the cost of taking on a physical office. The group is now looking forward to a busy 2015, for themselves and for their many clients! 62 70 | eastlife.co.uk

CONSUMER

Martin Lewis savvy Shopping

he common myth is that online is cheaper, and in general it is, yet the web isn’t just a homogenous gloop of similarity, different stores have different prices and using the right tactics and techniques can massively cut your costs. You have MORE rights buying online. Buy goods in-store and you don’t have a right to change your mind. While some stores do allow you to return goods, by law you can only take them back if they’re faulty. However if you buy goods online you have an absolute no fault right of return, as long as you send them back within 14 days. And you should get the cost of postage to you back as well – although you may have to pay for the cost of sending it back. This disparity of rights is causing a nightmare for high streets, as many people are starting to realise that if they browse in-store but order online, they’re better protected. Use shopbots to find the cheapest online prices. A shopbot or shopping robot is a comparison site that searches a range of e-tailers to find the cheapest price including delivery in the same time it takes to search at just one e-store. Different sites are good for different things, but I’d suggest www.kelkoo.co.uk, www.foundem.co.uk and www.megashopbot.com for general purposes and then specific sites like www.bookbrain.co.uk for books. Check out web outlets for up to 80% off deals, including Argos, M&S & Tesco. It used to be if you wanted to buy last season’s goods or seconds cheaply you needed to head to a big out of town

outlet shopping centre. Those days are gone as many stores now operate web outlets, where the same goods are sold online at huge reductions – some via their own stores such as M&S Outlet, Asos and Kurt Geiger (called Shoeaholics), others via special eBay sites including Argos, House of Fraser and Office. Of course stock and sizes are limited, yet it can be a real boon. My Outlet Discount Finder tool has a full list and search tool of over 50 outlets – www.mse.me/Outlets. Be aware of gift cards – unless you’re clever. Be wary of gift vouchers or cards as presents because a) if the firm goes bust, they’re worthless and b) some run out of date. But there’s a clever trick which makes them useful, more for you than as a gift though. If you’re planning a big spend at any one of 50+ retailers (including Halfords, Homebase, Debenhams, PC World), buy the gift card in Morrisons and you get 1p/litre off fuel per £10 spend. So £100 gets 10p off, £1,250 gets a free tank. So here the real trick isn’t to use them as gifts, but that if you’re planning a big purchase in that store anyway, first pop into Morrisons, buy the gift card, then a few days later once its active go and use it to buy your planned purchase, giving you a potentially whopping petrol discount. Martin Lewis is the Founder & Editor in Chief of Money Saving Expert. To join the 10 million people who get his Martin’s Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip or watch The Martin Lewis Money Show on ITV, Fridays at 8pm. eastlife.co.uk | 63

GREAT DENHAM PARK BEDFORDSHIRE

HOMES NOW RELEASED FOR SALE. Be one of the first to register your interest online! Discover your dream home at Great Denham Park. The first phase of this flagship development presents a collection of two and three bedroom homes and five wonderful show homes. Great Denham Park will offer the best of town and rural living, bordering the country park yet close to both Bedford and Milton Keynes. It has so much to offer with great transport links, reputable schools and an idyllic setting. Register your interest online to receive regular updates and an invitation to the exciting launch event.

Greenkeepers Road, Great Denham MK40 4FF

See the Difference at dwh.co.uk or call 01234 343017 Details correct at time of going to press. Images typical of David Wilson homes.

HOME & GARDEN

A New Year, a New Home B

eing at home over Christmas, you’ve probably had time to think about all the little things you’d like to do around the house. The New Year is the perfect time to give your home a new look. Whether it’s a lick of paint or a grand extension, the UK’s leading interior experts have given us their advice on how to transform your house into your dream home…

eastlife.co.uk | 65

Hampton

CARPETS & FLOORING Ltd

Quality carpets & flooring

to suit you

CHECK OUT OUR JANUARY SALE NOW Hampton Carpets & Flooring Ltd 6 Phorpes Close, Vision Park, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8FZ Tel: 01733 566 533 www.hamptoncarpets.co.uk

SuSSex BArn BURNHAM MARKET • NORFOLK

JANUARY SALE stabrick rts and Sussex Barn is an eighteenth century 3rd flint barn situated on Sussex Farm, J just anoutside u a ry the attractive village of Burnham Market. It has been carefully restored to make an ideal location for truly individual Receptions, BOOK NOW Wedding FOR YOUR Civil Weddings, Dances, CHRISTMAS PARTY OR WEDDING Parties, Conferences and Exhibitions The barn Sussex is a fully licensed venue and still retains Barn is an eighteenth century much brick of itsand old flint character – including a 120ft deep barn situated on Sussex Farm, well inoutside the barthe area. just attractive village of Burnham Market.

Contact:restored Jane Thompson It has been carefully to make an ideal location for truly individual01485 Wedding210000 Receptions, Civil Weddings, Dances, Parties, Conferences and Exhibitions e-mail: info@sussexbarn.co.uk

The barn is a fully licensed venue www.sussexbarn.co.uk and still retains much of its old character – including a 120ft deep well in the bar area. Jane Thompson 01485 210000 info@sussexbarn.co.uk

www.sussexbarn.co.uk 66 | eastlife.co.uk 53 50

SuSSex BArn BURNHAM MARKET • NORFOLK

Thompson Brancaster Farms Holiday Cottages are the ideal base from which to explore all that North West Norfolk has to offer. Alternatively you can just wind down on the beach or by the barbecue in summer or relax by the fireside in your cottage in the • Walk-In Baths winter. • Walk-In Showers Scenic NorthBarn WestisNorfolk offers beautiful Sussex eighteenth century unspoilt brick and (low level & levelan access) countryside, sandy famous flint barnlong situated onbeaches, Sussex Farm, justnature outside the • Wet Rooms reserves, big wide skies and above all, a real chance attractive village of Burnham Market. • Product & Installation Guarantee to get fromcarefully it all andrestored relax. to make an ideal It away has been • Waterproof Wall Panelling location for truly individual Wedding Receptions, • Slip Resistant Safety Flooring Civil Weddings, Dances, • Grab Rails, Shower Seats and Exhibitions Parties, Conferences & Raised The barn Toilets is a fully licensed venue and still retains • Local of Family Business much its old character – including a 120ft deep • Discounts OAPs, well in thefor bar area.

For your comfort & independence

Thompson B the ideal bas West Norfolk wind down o summer or re winter. Scenic North countryside, reserves, big to get away f

Ex Service Personnel and SSAFA

Contact: Jane Thompson

Call now to arrange a 01485 210000 FREE survey & Quote For more information on all our cottages e-mail: info@sussexbarn.co.uk please contact Jane Norwich 01603 605518

Thompson on

www.sussexbarn.co.uk 210000

For mo plea

Suffolk 0147301485 206918

info@ahminstallations.co.uk or e-mail: info@tbfholidayhomes.co.uk www.ahminstallations.co.uk or visit us at

or e-m

www.tbfholidayhomes.co.uk

www

eastlife.co.uk | 97

East Life - Jan15_Layout 1 17/12/2014 13:45 Page 1

big winter

Save up to

% 0 6off previou*s prices

now on! including...

Beds • Furniture • Linens • Gifts Cookshop • Curtains • Flooring Fashions • Menswear • Lingerie Childrenswear • Nursery • Toys

Plus... up to an

and more!

oafvfe’on ehxentyroau ‘S5pe% nd & S w & flooring beds, furniture

*Up to 50% off Beds & Furniture. Gifts, Childrenswear, Nursery & Toys - Braintree only. Menswear - Chelmsford only. Excludes selected departments. Images shown are used for illustration purposes only. Sale offers end 14.02.2015

01245 490101 01376 321303

220 Moulsham Street, Chelmsford CM2 0LS George Yard, Braintree CM7 2QA

/chelmsfordstarcoop

@CStarCoop

www.chelmsfordstar.coop

n i p u g . n . i . o G World e h t From simple loft conversions to extravagant roof extensions, it seems we are a nation that loves to extend our homes

verywhere I look it appears homeowners are jumping on the bandwagon and giving their home an overhaul. As I stroll along the street of my hometown it has become apparent that more and more homeowners are choosing to shun the hassle of estate agents and hefty solicitor fees and extend the home they love. In my local town there has almost been a domino effect of home after home being dressed in scaffolding for months to reveal a shiny, freshly painted and larger residence. With TV programmes such as ‘Double Your House for Half the Money’ and ‘Grand Designs’ as inspiration and rising property prices, improving rather than moving can be an attractive option. Recent research from Nationwide Building Society suggests that a loft conversion can increase the value of your property by up to 20 per cent. If you have a growing family or are in need of extra space maybe it’s time to take the plunge.

68| eastlife.co.uk

Planning A loft conversion can be a tricky and time-consuming job but if carried out correctly by an experienced contractor, the results can be amazing. Not all loft spaces can be converted so before you get started on the planning consider the following: Is there enough space for the required height? In terms of height you are going to want to stand up in it and bear in mind that the new floor could be as much as 150–200 mm higher than your existing joists. Does it have potential as a comfortable and viable living space? Is the roof sound? Make sure you can see the felt under the tiles. Raise the roof The roof structure is designed to keep all weathers at bay and to contain light loads of storage. Once it has been converted it will be able to withstand far greater loads because of alterations to the structure and flooring put in place.

LIFESTYLE

Commonly there are two types of roof: trussed rafter and traditional. Trussed roofs have been around since the late 1960s, early 1970s. These are not so good if you want to convert a loft and should never be altered without first getting the opinion of a structural engineer to do all the calculations. However, it’s not impossible, just a little more difficult. For example, a series of supporting beams would have to be installed to provide extra strength for the floor and to reinforce the rafters. This enables the bracing sections of the trusses to be cut out to create a more open floor plan. Traditional style roofs are generally made up of items called purlins and rafters, which span across each load-bearing wall. These are nowhere near as complex as the trussed design. The structure will still need to be strengthened with extra joists though to support the new floor and give the space an extra load-bearing capacity. Once again a structural engineer’s report will be required. You will need to access your new living space with a staircase. If you have the available space leading off the original stairwell this could save space and could be more cost effective. If not, you may well have to section off space in an existing bedroom with a studded wall partition. There are figures and parameters to bear in mind with the inclusion of a new staircase. The maximum pitch must not exceed 42 degrees, the riser of each tread on a domestic staircase should not exceed 220mm, and the going (the flat bit) should be a minimum of 220 mm. You will also require a clear headroom space of 2m, although for some conversions the regulations allow a reduction to 1.9m at the centre of the stairs and 1.8m at the edges. Regardless of whichever room you choose, en-suite bathrooms will add hundreds or even thousands to your property. Try to fit one into your loft to make it a master bedroom. However if your bedroom loft is going to be on the smaller size, leave it out. Remember if you are planning to sell your property in the near future, larger spaces always have a bigger impact than small, cluttered spaces.

Interior design Once you’ve got the thumbs up to go ahead with your new loft conversion, it’s time to think about the interior. Without a doubt, a bedroom loft will always have a slanted ceiling, which restricts the size of your room. To solve this problem, think of fresh, light colours to give the illusion of a larger room. Neutral shades are best in these circumstances where white is usually the popular choice. Skylights are a fantastic way to take advantage of slanted ceilings as it adds depth to your room by bringing in natural light. Slanted ceilings also have a habit of creating awkward spaces with not enough headroom. Think about clever storage solutions for these difficult areas to maximise space, that way you won’t have to bring in additional furniture like cupboards or a chest of drawers that will take up extra space (something you want to avoid in bedroom lofts). You can always add a punch of colour to your room through soft furnishings or statement furniture. For example, ornate mirrors or a colourful duvet set will work wonders to bring a quirky edge. Put up feature wallpaper on a single wall or focus on colonial details like a range of harmonious textures and finishes for a layered, luxurious look. Or, opt for sleek minimalism. Keep colours and details to a minimum and play with bedside lights for a simplistic look that still screams style.

eastlife.co.uk | 69

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

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

QUALITY FIREPLACES DESIGNED AND FITTED TO ENHANCE YOUR HOME Two floors of showrooms with over 30 fireplace displays. Gas fires, Powerflues (No chimney - no problem) Stoves, Wood, Multi fuel or gas, Firebaskets. Made to measure fireplaces available in Solid Woods, Marble & Stone. Relaxed friendly atmosphere, free delivery, installation by our own in-house fitting service.

Largest selection of ornate plasterware in Bedfordshire Ample Free Parking Open: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm info@charactercoving.co.uk www.charactercoving.co.uk Unit 4/5 Hockliffe Business Park, Watling Street, Hockliffe, Bedfordshire Tel/fax: 01525 211155 70 | eastlife.co.uk

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New Year, New Kitchen?

Give the heart of the home a new lease of life Sanother year, the Christmas tree is languish-

o, you’ve packed away the decorations for

ing outside the back door and with the glitter, berries and snowflakes off the scene, there’s no doubt that homes can look just a little dreary.

What to do then? Well, come away from the sales, stop berating yourself on the scales and instead think about how you can give some of your home’s key rooms a makeover. The kitchen is a great place to start, and the chances are that if you cooked Christmas lunch this year you’ll have already identified a few things you’d like to change. Bryan Turner, owner and managing director of Bryan Turner Kitchen Furniture in Wymondham, Norfolk, says: “There’s nothing like cooking for a crowd to show up a kitchen’s inadequacies. Suddenly, you’re wondering why you didn’t go for the double oven, why there’s not enough space in the fridge and what on earth you – or your designer – was thinking when you decided to put the dishwasher at the opposite end of the kitchen to the sink.” Sounds familiar? Well, now couldn’t be a better 72 | eastlife.co.uk

time to have a kitchen rethink. Bryan, who’s been designing and hand building his distinctive kitchens for over 25 years, suggests that to really instigate a change for the better, you should sketch your kitchen’s existing layout and then take a long look at how you and your family move in and around it. For example, when you’re cooking, work out what areas you’re moving between; typically it will be around a food prep area, cooking appliances and perhaps, a refrigerator. Consider too, your own comfort. It’s essential you feel at ease and are unhindered; avoid having a door immediately behind your main working area. Then, think about entry and access points into the kitchen, there will probably be one from outside, but it’s likely you’ll have a ‘flow’ from a dining room, a breakfast room, a utility room and so on. How do other people move around your kitchen and how does it accommodate them? Do you have teenagers descending in a ravenous huddle, friends popping in for a coffee or children doing their homework? Bryan adds: “Although it’s tempting to think ‘new year, new kitchen, it’s really important not to act too impulsively. It’s only by understanding how your kitchen works for you that you’ll be able to see

HOME & GARDEN

Bryan’s Top Tips 1

. Flow. Traffic. Movement. Call it what you will – but it’s how people move around a kitchen that matters. It’s especially important when you’re creating a multipurpose kitchen e.g. one that integrates a dining area or homeworking zone.

2. Light. Make the most of natural light and com-

pensate with energy-efficient LED lighting elsewhere. Adding roof lights might be an option in a single storey kitchen and can be really effective.

3. Ventilation. Dull but oh so necessary. Choose the

best you can afford – particularly over your cooking area. No one wants lovely new kitchen cabinetry and fittings to be damaged by grease, condensation and mould.

4. Clean-up zone. Make it great and make it as

accessible and user-friendly as possible. By all means hide away a secondary sink and perhaps a dishwasher in a utility room, but making sure you can easily clear away clutter and dispose of mess will ensure your kitchen stays clean and a pleasure to inhabit.

5. Island life. Kitchen islands are great and they’re not where things aren’t so great and what you can do to improve them.” Plus, whilst it’s easy to get carried away with Pinterest (check out Eastlife’s House and Home Pinterest board at www.pinterest.com/eastlifemag), fabric swatches and moodboards a la The Interior Design Challenge, they won’t mean a thing if you can’t communicate to a designer what the fundamental things are that you would like to change. Bryan advises: “The most important thing is not to get dragged down by the detail. By all means, have your heart set on some incredible appliances but do your best to ensure the kitchen they’re destined for works as hard as possible for you. After all, a new kitchen is a significant investment and it’s one that should give you and your family a good return for many years. In a nutshell, the secret is to keep some basic principles in mind at all times. If you can do that, regardless of budget, you should be able to look forward to cooking next year’s Christmas lunch in a much-improved kitchen.”

just for large kitchens. The secret is to ensure they are perfectly in proportion with your kitchen’s shape and again work with, rather than against the movement in the room. Factor in as much storage as you can and choose an eye-catching, durable surface.

6. Statement appliances. Even if you can’t quite justify a walk-in American fridge-freezer, adding just one or two ‘wow-factor’ appliances can make a kitchen really special. Think slimline wine coolers, integrated coffee machines and hot water boiling taps. They’re a little bit of luxe that goes a long way. 7. Take it easy. Clinical, sterile kitchens with an overkill of stainless steel are over. The majority of people genuinely want their kitchen to be the hub of their home for friends and family alike. So take the time to find a few individual pieces that will make everyone want to linger. An old Chesterfield, original artwork, quirky light fittings, a 1950s jukebox. These items needn’t be expensive but they work brilliantly. For further information visit www.bryanturnerkitchens.com or call 01953 601567

eastlife.co.uk | 73

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*Photographs used are typical of the specification at Waterside Maltings, carpets, flooring, lighting blinds & all free standing furniture are not included unless otherwise stated. Please refer to a sales negotiator for further information.

HOME & GARDEN

Are you ready to downsize your home?

New figures reveal 40 per cent of homeowners aged over 55 are gearing up to downsize

ew figures from Prudential show that 40 per cent of homeowners aged over 55 are planning to sell their homes and a significant 75 per cent of those are aiming to downsize. Having too much space appears to be the main driver for downsizing, according to 61 per cent of homeowners over the age of 55. The convenience of running a smaller home (58%), accessing equity (34%), reducing the day-to-day running costs of living in a large home (22%) and changes in personal circumstances, including divorce and separation (21%), complete the top five reasons for downsizing. Stephanie McMahon, head of research at Strutt & Parker said: “Our own analysis following our Housing Futures survey shows that 21 per cent of people who move are doing so to downsize to a smaller home and with on average 47 per cent of privately held homes across UK local authorities under-occupied this comes as no great surprise.” Cameron Ewer of Strutt & Parker’s Cambridge office said: “People’s homes are usually their most

valuable asset and the financial benefit of downsizing can be very appealing. By selling a larger property and moving to somewhere smaller and more manageable, you can cost save on home maintenance and release equity at the same time. Both represent good ways to help boost your retirement fund for later life.” The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Housing and Care for Older People has recently called for a ‘Help to Move’ scheme for the elderly. Research from think tank Demos found that a third of homeowners over 60 would consider downsizing but up to half cannot afford to move to a retirement property locally. A ‘Help to Move’ equity loan for over 60s wanting to downsize would help older homeowners with lower value properties (up to £250,000) bridge the gap between the value of their home and the purchase price of a new retirement property. APPG also called for stamp duty to be abolished for over 60s wishing to downsize to homes priced at £250,000 or less.

eastlife.co.uk | 75

ADVERTORIAL

Heating UP The Region If you’re looking to add a fireplace to your home take a trip to one of Zigis showroom. Established in 1982, Zigis has certified itself as the regions leading fireplace specialists. A small family business, Zigis has five fireplace and woodburner showrooms throughout the East of England including; Chelmsford, Colchester, Halstead, Ipswich and Norwich. Each showroom has an extensive display of beautiful woodburners and fireplaces in many materials including wood, stone, marble and cast iron. Whether you’re looking for a traditional stone fireplace or contemporary hole in the wall fire, you’ll be able to find something to suit your taste and needs. A member of the experience team will be on hand to help. Zigis offer a complete range of products and varying level of service from full installations to the supply of individual items. There is also a wide range of gas ( LPG & NG) and electric fires, accessories, grates, fronts, tiles, sundries, tools and firebacks. Zigis can install and commission any of the range of stoves or fireplaces in your home. It can undertake all building work and installation whether it is a gas installation or of necessary flue components including stainless steel twin wall insulated flue for homes with no class 1 chimney and flexible liners in existing aged chimneys. By choosing Zigis engineers to install and commission your appliance you’ll be certain to get the most qualified engineers to carry out the job. On completion you will be issued with a copy of the HETAS certification notifying the local planning office of the new installation. All gas installations will be registered with GAS SAFE REGISTER (previously undertaken by CORGI). All solid fuel work is carried out in accordance with Document J of the building regulations and HETAS. With winter in full swing there has never been a better time to make your home warm, cosy and stylish with the latest fireplace design.

76 74 | eastlife.co.uk

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2015 interior trend alert Retro, romance and rustic woods are the trends defining our interiors for 2015. Luxury bespoke furniture designer Barbara Genda explains how you can incorporate next season’s hottest look into your home

hree defining trends shaping the interiors scene lately that are likely to continue into 2015 are ‘retro’, ‘romance’ and the resurgence of ‘rustic, character woods’.

longer the result of poor taste and a bad eye for design; it is an emerging aesthetic that sees the fusions of very different styles clashing into a visual harmony that simply just works, as if entirely by accident.

Where modern and contemporary interiors are shaped by a clean, unfussy and perfunctory aesthetic, retro furniture engenders emotion and a fondness for the design quirks of a bygone era. From kitsch to whimsical, bold to art deco – the myriad looks that define the trend of ‘retro’ furniture are being rejuvenated with a fresh, modern and industrial edge, with subtle adjustments to shape and texture bringing the nostalgic look into the millennia.

Sleek and slender sideboards, leather bound furniture, low-standing coffee tables, accents of chrome and colour against a backdrop of loudly patterned walls and typography artwork have all been rehashed and reinterpreted for the modern house.

Retro Roomsets with 70s-style mismatched furniture are no 78 | eastlife.co.uk

The great thing with ‘retro’ is that it’s readily accessible. If you’re crafty, you can easily pick up pre-owned pieces from the flea market or antique store and freshen up its style using paints or funky print decoupage to give it a modern edge.

HOME & GARDEN

pristine brilliance. It gives furniture a character and charm to pieces that can never be exactly replicated. Even adventurous shades of blue, red, yellow and fuschia work beautifully with this look. Woods with character imperfections, rustic wood and salvaged wood are also increasingly becoming the material of choice for furniture. From sidetables to cupboards, mirror frames to desks – the individual randomness of the grain pattern and its textured, tactile surfaces form an essential part of the overall look, which seems to pay homage to nature and the material’s roots itself.

There are also many new readymade pieces inspired by this ‘yesteryear’ design aesthetic. If you’re opting for bespoke furniture, consider something that will complement the constant flux in trends so you can readily update your interior’s look without having to undergo major refurbishment. Something that gives a nod to retro roots but is still classic and elegant will ensure these pieces remain to your taste even as the years and fashion trends go by. Finally, remember to temper bold colours with muted shades and loud patterns with simple block colour designs so that the overall look is striking without being over-the-top. Grey shades both in flooring and furniture can really enhance this look.

Blond woods remain popular because the light golden hues seem to complement a myriad of interior looks, although the demand for exotic timber such as Macassar Ebony is also growing because of its dramatic ‘tiger-striped’ style appearance, which adds depth, warmth and character to the design. Complement this visually tactile look with a light and neutral colour palette that allows to you experiment with textures. Think deep pile fluffy rugs, chunky cable knit throws and pouffes, sleek white and billowing muslin drapes offset by accents of sooty slate, stone and marble for a truly earthy look. Barbara Genda is founder and principle designer of Barbara Genda Bespoke Furniture. www.barbara-genda.com

Shabby Chic The tattered grandeur of ‘shabby chic’ shows no signs of abating in 2015. Interest in distressed antiquated looking furniture that still retains an aesthetic of old world opulence remains strong. Married with splashes of colour, we see the worn-andweathered working beautifully with the vibrancy of ‘new’. Embellishments of garlands, swag and cherubs lend further character to the trend, which, despite these intricacies, is really underscored by elegance in its simplest and plainest form. Classy yet ‘rough around the edges’, you could update particular pieces using a simple white wash paint; with parts of the grain peeking out from the

eastlife.co.uk | 79

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From initial design to final installation and completion, our kitchens are specifically and individually created to your needs from the finest materials and finished by hand too. We specialise in hardwood and granite worktops. Call us now for further details and a guide to prices. Traditionally-designed and Timelessly-beautiful Kitchens Handmade Traditional Old Pine & Painted Kitchen Unit 3, Hall Farm, Station Road, Pulham Market, Diss Telephone/Fax: 01379 608873 www.beamendskitchens.co.uk

Coastal Stoves and Fires of Holt, Norfolk

SALE

We are a family-run business and offer a wide and varied selection of Woodburning, MultiFuel and Gas Stoves. In our showroom in Holt we have several on display and below are just a small selection of those on offer…

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(Opposite Morrisons) (Opposite Morrisons) 01733 575867 TelTel 01733 575867 Real Savings Tel 01733 575867 Tel 575867 Visit store or online at01733 www.therealwoodfurniturestore.net Visit thethe store or online at www.therealwoodfurniturestore.net Visit the store or online www.therealwoodfurniturestore.net Visit the store or online atatwww.therealwoodfurniturestore.net Oak, Ash, Pine, Sheesham, Mango, Acacia, Walnut, Painted Oak, Ash, Pine, Sheesham, Mango, Acacia, Walnut, Painted 963 965 Lincoln Road, Walton. Peterborough. PE4 6AF 963 toto 965 Lincoln Road, Walton. Peterborough. PE4 6AF Oak, Ash, Pine, Sheesham, Mango, Acacia, Walnut, Painted Oak, Ash, Pine, Sheesham, Mango, Acacia, Walnut, Painted and more. All beautiful Real Wood furniture for around and more. All beautiful Real Wood furniture for all all around (Opposite Morrisons) (Opposite Morrisons) 2 Benedict Square, Werrington, Peterborough PE4 6GD andmore. more. All beautiful Real Wood furniture forall allaround around and All beautiful Wood furniture the home atin affordable Prices.for the home atReal affordable Prices. Now in Store (Opposite Porcelanosa) Tel 01733 575867 Tel 01733 575867 Now Store theShopping homeat ataffordable affordable Prices. PE7 8BE the home Prices. Visit the store online www.therealwoodfurniturestore.net Serpentine Green Centre, Hampton, Peterborough it the store oror online atat www.therealwoodfurniturestore.net

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eastlife.co.uk | 81

ST YT LS IS SY HT S H S T Y L I S H S T STYLISH OV SE LSYTI OS LVH IE S S TSOTVOEVS STOVES T O I N S P I R E Y O U R H OTO ME TO INSPIRE YO TINSPIRE O UTRO I NHISN O PSM IR PEIE RY E OYUORU R H YOUR HOME

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1 Penfold Drive, Wymondham 1 Penfold 1 Penfold Drive, Drive, Wymondham Wymond We have a fine showroom, with over 60 exquisite Norfolk, NR18fires0WZ Norfolk, NR18 NR18 0WZ0WZ to view, many set inNorfolk, live displays. Our diverse collection includes the impressive Clearview woodburning stoves, Harrie Leenders ceiling mounted and rotatable stoves, Piazzetta double and triple sided stoves and the elegant Rais stoves range. We also have Gazco gas fires and a fine selection of wood and stone surrounds to comliment..

We have a real passion and expertise for quality and have carefully selected these fine products to give our clients great choice, service and satisfaction. We offer a complete package from initial consultation, demonstration, design, and installation and our Hetas accredited and registered for wood burning, solid fuel, stoves, fireplace and chimney work. We are based in the historic market town of Wymondham in Norfolk. Our Showroom is just off the A11 and we have a large free car park.

O.I.E.O ÂŁ550,000 Large 4 bed detached, fantastic location, large plot, double garage, walk in dressing room, and en-suite, all double bedrooms, 140' frontage, priced to sell! 147 Connaught Avenue, Frinton-on-Sea, Essex, CO13 9AH Telephone: 01255 676565, Fax: 01255 851462 E-mail: leeparsons@trowbridgesales.com www.trowbridgeestates.co.uk 82 | eastlife.co.uk

01953 602482 www.alcosa.co.uk 1 Penfold Drive, Wymondham Norfolk, NR18 0WZ

HOME & GARDEN

Wrap up your home I

t’s obvious why it’s vital to insulate our homes, after all no one likes a huge energy bill, but with loft, roof, door, cavity walls and external options available, do you know which could be the most beneficial to your home? In recent years, there has been more pressure from the Government and media for homeowners to insulate their home but with new schemes and options popping up, it’s sometimes difficult to fully grasp the concept of what we actually need. Phil Lamb, National Sales Director of Zenith Home, energy saving experts, put the confusion aside and explained just what you need to know: There are a few things to look out for which will indicate that your home needs insulating: - If you are experiencing draughts inside your home - If your energy bills are above average - If the comfort levels in your home are compromised It is recommended that you carry out checks in your own home, such as checking the insulation in your loft. The recommended depth for mineral wool insulation is 270mm but other materials will need different depths. The type of insulation you have will depend on how often it needs updating. Loft insulation will occasionally need topping up and external wall insulation does not need updating. Many of the products available from Zenith Home carry 10 or 25 year guarantees so after this time they may need

updating. There are always industry developments and improvements in technology ensuring that products are always improving. The cost of insulating your home will depend on the measures you are undertaking, for simple draught proofing it could be just a few pounds whereas replacing your windows and doors with ‘A’ rated energy saving products can be up to thousands of pounds. There are significant cost benefits to insulating your home as it will become more energy efficient which will have an impact on and reduce your energy bills. Insulating your home will also improve the EPC rating of your property, which can add value to your home. The Government regularly have schemes such as the ‘green deal’ and the GDHIF but these are usually heavily oversubscribed. By draught proofing your doors and insulating your windows your home will be insulated better and this will keep your energy bills down. Overall there are many benefits to insulating your home. It will significantly reduce heat loss making it warmer and more comfortable inside and in turn will help to reduce your energy bills. Certain home insulation methods such as External Wall Insulation will also improve the aesthetic look of your property however this is only available on solid wall properties. Adding insulation to your home will also reduce exterior noise and create a quieter environment for your family. www.zenithhome.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 83

New Woodburner Showroom Open days New Woodburner Our new woodburner showroom, located We are hostingdays our Showroom Open in the same building as our Aga showroom oﬃcial Open Days on

at Martlesham, is now near completion. Friday 5th and Saturday Our new woodburner showroom, located 10.00am We are–hosting our 6th September We have on display from OER, as our Aga instoves the same building showroom official 4.00pm and you are mostOpen Days on Aga, Stanley, Woodwarm & High isFlame at Martlesham, now near completion. welcome to attend.Friday 5th and Saturday and a rangelocated of accessories. are able 6th September Our new woodburner showroom, in theWe same building as our Aga showroom at 10.00am – display stoves from OER, to supply only or ifWe youhave wishonour 4.00pm and you are most Special open Martlesham, is now open. experienced engineers Aga, can Stanley, Woodwarm & High Flame complete offers welcome to attend. andworks. a range of accessories. Weday are able the entire installation to supply onlyWoodwarm or if you wish our We have on display stoves from OER, Aga, Stanley, & High Flame and a range of Special open engineers can complete engineers accessories. We are able toSuffOlk supply onlyWOOdburNerS orexperienced if you wish our experienced can complete the day offers the entire Unit 6, Bridge Business Parkinstallation works.

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WOOdburNerS E: martin@martinmelville.com SUFFOLK WOODBURNERS T: 01394 384175 SuffOlk Unit 6, Bridge Business Park www.suﬀolkwoodburners.co.uk Unit 6, Bridge Business Park, Top Street, Martlesham IP12 4RB Top Street, Martlesham IP12 4RB T: 01394 384175 E: martin@martinmelville.com www.suffolkwoodburners.co.uk Suﬀolk Woodburners are part of the long

T: 01394 384175 E: martin@martinmelville.com

established Martin Melville company

Suffolk Woodburners are part of the long establishedwww.suﬀolkwoodburners.co.uk Martin Melville company

Suﬀolk Woodburners are part of the long established Martin Melville company

Time to change your old boiler? The Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive will pay you 12.2p per kilowatt when you change to a biomass boiler.

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

84 | eastlife.co.uk

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Bring the benefits of a real fire into your home Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary wood burning stoves in East Anglia today. We have created a display of exceptional wood burning stoves and fires in a showroom to match them. A place where you can step back and take in their full visual impact. A place to see cutting edge design from leading manufacturers. A place where you can be inspired by the possibilities of a real fire.

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HOME & GARDEN

Brighten up your bedroom With the New Year comes a new season of interior trends bedroom is one of the most sacred rooms A of the home and one of the rooms in which we devote most of our time, even if it’s to

New West If your taste is sharp and modern in the bedroom, then 2015 is full of delights. New West is one such paying homage to the rugged beauty of the wild west. Layered with dusty desert hues from ochre to clay and rugged textures of wood, hewn metal and chunky, recycled glass, this look is easy, contemporary and decidedly unfussy.

To help give your bedroom a little TLC that’s on trend, Steven Rowe, Head of Design at Tesco gave us an insight into what we can expect to be hitting the stores this season:

Whatever the weather this summer, you can invite warmth into your bedroom with the warm marsala tones of Tesco’s Geometric striped duvet set, the perfect backdrop for a cluster of photographic cushions in dreamy sepia tones.

simply sleep and dream. It’s the space where you can design, lay out and decorate to meet you and your partner’s particular tastes - no matter what anyone else thinks, as they won’t be seeing it.

Modern Romance Florals continue as one of the most popular and enduring bedroom themes for 2015. Pastels are here to stay for 2015, but now the floral palette is bolder, vibrant and more impactful for a refreshed romantic vibe with an edgy twist. Team the hotel chic of Tesco Direct’s buttoned Henley headboard with the soft and seductive Sienna duvet for a touch of romance at its most sophisticated. Gutsy floral cushions add a pop of drama, while typographical wall art provides an uplifting start to the day.

Mid Century A whole host of fun and inspiration arrives in the bedroom this spring with the graphic, retro inspired Mid Century collection. This clear colour palette, with its splashes of zesty lemon, duck egg blue and lipstick red will make your space stand out for all the right reasons. The stark modernity of the classic Stockholm upholstered bedframe is beautifully complemented by the symmetry of the Hexagonal Ditsy duvet set. The sulphur yellow Dorset desk lamp gives the room some serious utilitarian chic. eastlife.co.uk | 87

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How to create a Beautiful bathroom

Reviving a tired bathroom needn’t require a total overhaul. Saffet Kalender, managing director at Aeon, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of designer radiators in the UK, gave us his tips for refreshing your bathroom in a weekend or less

he bathroom can be a place of calm and tranquility or a manic rush of tiny people. Above all, it needs to be practical, be built to last and functional, but this no longer means you have to compromise on style. Modern bathrooms can incorporate both stylish and functional elements. Functional towel rails not only provide heat but can also be used to store and dry wet towels. Some are now even made from aluminium making them lightweight, recyclable and still aesthetically pleasing. A quick and easy way to update your bathroom is with accessories. Be that a new soap dispenser and toothbrush holder to a sleek and stylish radiator or new taps. Little touches can completely transform the same bathroom suite, which is why, when choosing your suite in the first place, it’s vital to go for quality and style. There’s no point choosing the cheapest suite on the market only to find you’ll be replacing it within a few years. You use your bathroom every day at least twice a day.

90 | eastlife.co.uk

HOME & GARDEN

Invest in the basics and play around with accessories to brighten and change the décor. Colour is another way to easily update and transform the bathroom. Simply painting one wall in a bold colour or adding large stencil patterns to white walls can create a bold impact. And don’t be afraid of shower curtains. The once staple of the 1980s is now transformed with washes of colour, stunning hooks and feature poles. If a wall is too much, why not consider changing the towels to a bright fuchsia or even a stark black? Taps are another way to transform your bathroom. Change to a mixer tap or go retro with vintage inspired Victorian fittings. Either way, changing your taps can add a touch of elegance and a subtle tone to your bathroom. Every bathroom needs heat. This no longer means a standard radiator thanks to bespoke stainless steel designs. Now you can transform a room with a radiator that looks more like a piece of art than something to keep you warm and toasty.

2015 Simplicity is set to be big. We’re moving away from the comforting rustic looks we’ve been favouring to cleaner more sleek lines and spaces. But this doesn’t mean luxury is out; 2015 is set to see the return of the tub with floor standing deep baths playing a key part in 2015’s bathroom trends. Grey is set to be a big colour for walls replacing the stark whites. Warmer tones mixed with white units are set to be big. As will footed sinks as opposed to wall mounted or the bowl basins we have been seeing. For heating, the towel rail will still be key but moving away from traditional lines to more directional and angled pieces. Cubist shapes, tubes and flat panels will all become big throughout 2015. Aeon Radiators have stockists available in St Albans, Herts. www.aeon.uk.com

eastlife.co.uk | 91

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HOME & GARDEN

Give your home a new lease of life on a budget T

his 2015 make it your new year’s resolution to give your home a stylish new look inspired by the biggest interior trends. Robin Auld, head of marketing at Topps Tiles, tells Eastlife readers how to achieve these looks and give your home a new lease of life in the process.

The Bathroom Bright and bold patterned tiles can completely transform dated bathrooms proving that bathroom tiles don’t just have to be functional and hard wearing, they can also be used to create a real style statement.

Hundreds of people pledge to improve themselves in the New Year but improving your home shouldn’t be overlooked either. Give your house a fresh feel using some simple, but clever tiling tricks. For a start, focus on the two rooms in your home that can really add value to your house – the kitchen and the bathroom. By implementing a few simple, but effective touches you can give these rooms a real lift without breaking the bank.

Intricate patterns inspired by the Mediterranean are set to be a big hit this year along with beautiful botanical inspired patterns. Inject a burst of style into your bathroom by incorporating patterned or patchwork tiles alongside a plain tile to create chic feature panels that run from the floor to the ceiling.

The Kitchen If you want to refresh your kitchen and inject instant impact, consider installing a stylish tiled splash back which can add character and individuality to the room. Soft pastel coloured tiles, such as peony pink and moss green or rich jewel tones such as deep aubergine and Victorian blue are bang on trend for 2015 and can give your interiors a stylish and modern look. Match them with contemporary coloured kitchen accessories and appliances to give your kitchen a fresh look on a small budget. Large format polished porcelain tiles are great for creating a contemporary feel as the finish on the tile reflects light making the room look brighter and more spacious.

If patterns aren’t your style then consider investing in some chic geometric tiles instead and place them around your shower or sink to give your bathroom a fresh contemporary look, bringing it into 2015. Mosaics are also expected to be popular again this year due to their flexibility. They can be used to tile a whole area or used to create a border or feature in varying thicknesses meaning they are cost effective but still look great. And let’s not forget the floor. Replacing old floor tiles or carpet can give your bathroom an injection of freshness that can make it look brand new while helping to add value to your home. Large format floor tiles can give your room a streamlined appearance, making it look bigger, especially if you use the same tile for both the floor and walls. For more information visit www.toppstiles.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 93

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

                 

                  

 Registered Nurses – Full-time

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

HEALTH

Choosing a Care Home With so much choice, how do you decide which care home is right for you or your family member?

he New Year is the perfect time for change. If a relative or loved one is having difficulty caring for themselves independently, why not make 2015 the year you help them? Across the region you’ll find residential, nursing and dementia care homes available. Nicola Rands, manager of Highfield Care Home, a private residential care home located in Saffron Walden, Essex explained how to find the right home and the research to undertake. “The sooner you start your research the more informed your decision will be. Visit as many care homes as possible within the location that is most suitable for you, your family and friends. Ask to speak to relatives of the residents in the care homes that you’ve shortlisted as they will provide an insight into the daily life and care quality practiced. “Find out about the activities programme as activities and outings are very important. Dine at the care homes to make sure the quality and menu is to your relative’s taste. Try and speak with carers and nurses as well as the manager as they will be the staff who will be caring for your relative on a daily basis.

“Do all the rooms have ensuite facilities? This is important for elderly people to maintain comfort and dignity. Consider respite care to assess whether the home you’ve selected is the right home for your relative. Check the CQC report as this will provide vital and impartial view of how the home or homes you’ve selected are performing.” It’s vital that everyone involved in the move to a care home is happy. Highfield Care Home suggest it’s important to find a home that ticks all the boxes as moving a relative in the first place away from their existing residence can be tiring and very emotional. If your loved one is having extra difficulties ensure the home you choose can cater for such needs. Nicola added: “Some of our residents who are unable to leave their rooms are supported to ensure they maintain healthy and happy lifestyles. This would include personal sessions with our activities coordinator and care team.” Though the idea of leaving your relative at a care home may be daunting, the many facilities and activities that the regions are homes have to offer enable your loved one to lead a happier life. eastlife.co.uk | 95

If you’ve raised children, why not use the experience you’ve gained. Contact FCA for a chat to find out more.

0800 169 8388 www.fosterwithfca.co.uk

Keep well this winter with Bushey House Beaumont Care Home With the winter months upon us, there’s no better time to think about care options.

To discuss our care options and the short-term stays available call:

0208 421 8844

High Street, Bushey, WD23 1QN www.barchester.com

Bookings now being taken, call to book your Respite Break now 96 | eastlife.co.uk

HEALTH

A Day at a Care Home Highfield Care Home in Saffron Walden, gave us an insight into the daily life living at a care home Morning

Residents get up when they are ready, there is no rush and no regime to adhere to. This is the residents home and they decide what they would like to do from day to day with help from our staff if and when required. Living with dementia Reaching the decision to find a care home for a person living with a dementia is not only a difficult choice to make, but it can also be an overwhelming experience. You can often find yourself asking: “how do we identify a care home with the right expertise in caring for people who live with dementia?” These are natural questions that B&M Care are helping to answer in its latest publication ‘A Guide to Selecting a Dementia Care Home.’ Co-written by B&M Care’s Dementia Care Practitioner, Caroline Inch (BSc Dementia Studies), and Business Development Manager, Angela Hunt, the booklet offers a guide to help you understand what to look for in dementia care. It highlights how B&M Care homes have been consistently delivering high standards of quality dementia care for forty years and details what you should look for when selecting a care home. “A home that can explain its dementia care philosophy and how it delivers person centred care will easily be able to demonstrate how it makes every moment count for a person living with a dementia,” said Angela Hunt, Business Development Manager.

Breakfast is served and cooked to order and ranges from cereal to bacon and eggs. Dining is a very important social and well being aspect to our residents and we take the time and effort to ensure all their dietary requirements are respected. Some mornings many of the residents join in with poetry reading or flick through the newspapers with the activities coordinator. Some residents like to watch morning TV in their room. Lunch is served at 12:30 and is always three courses prepared fresh every day by the superb Chef Nic.

Afternoon

In the afternoon there is often a visit from one of the regular entertainers. They will sing songs that the residents can sing along to and reminisce. Alternatively, for those who prefer a quieter afternoon with a bit of a challenge then games such as bridge and scrabble can be enjoyed. Many residents will also continue with hobbies and pastimes that they enjoyed before moving to Highfield. One of the residents can often be seen riding his mobility scooter round and about the town while another resident with artistic talent enjoys watercolor painting.

The guide includes a helpful checklist that can be used when visiting care homes with recommended questions to ask. If you’re considering visiting a care home this year, you’ll find loving, safe and experienced care homes available to take care of your loved ones across the region. eastlife.co.uk | 97

The Paddocks Care Home ●

●

Lincoln House Care Home

Residential Care

●

Nursing Care

●

Dementia Care

●

Respite Care and short breaks

The Mayfields Care Home

Residential Care

●

Nursing Care

●

Respite Care and short breaks

●

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.

Lincoln House Care Home Dereham Road. Swanton Morley. Dereham. NR20 4LT.

The Mayfields Care Home Swan Lane, Long Stratton, Norfolk, NR15 2UY

www.castlemeadowcare.co.uk

Harwood Park

The perfect setting to commemorate the life of your loved one

www.crematorium.co.uk

01438 815555 98austins_HarwoodPk_HBI_LandHPC_129x186_artwork.indd | eastlife.co.uk

Crematorium and memorial gardens created and managed by the Austin family in the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside.

Keeping memories alive 13/9/12 17:20:07

FULL PAGE.indd 1

18/02/2014 14:51

ARTS

The Arts Scene

Sun on Burnaham Over Creek by Paul Gunn

Ritola by Chris Kendrick

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

ome the New Year amidst the lure of crisp winter mornings and cosy fire lit afternoons, don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll and visit some of our wonderful regional, fine art galleries. 2015 kicks off with an abundance of new emerging talent and fresh masterpieces from the already loved and established. In the picturesque, medieval town of Saffron Walden you will find The Saffron Walden Gallery. Dedicated to original art, this oasis of fine and contemporary work has been growing in reputation and popularity since it was established just two years ago. Showcasing many up and coming artists, it also regularly welcomes the internationally renowned to its inspiring and tranquil space. January sees the start of a new group exhibition featuring many of the galleries resident artists. Amongst these you will find superb new pieces from gallery favourites Paul Gunn and Chris Kendrick. Both artists’ highly skilled draughtsmanship and painting skills are immediately appreciated but the depth and sincerity of their work ensures that their images stay with you, drawing you back for another view. Paul’s beautiful coastal studies calm the heart and provide that window of escape that one often seeks within the power of the arts. Warm and grounded

earthy umbers sit pensively with faraway hues of blue, creating dreamy havens of holiday memories and a longing to be by the sea. The movement of light through his acrylic on canvas paintings compliments beautifully the stilled dramatic chiaroscuro of Chris’ oil on canvas panel still life works. Multi-layers of glazing and stippling techniques breathe life into Chris’ carefully observed and detailed studies of bottles, lemons, limes and other simple items. Flashes of copper and glass mingle with the textured surface area of citrus and exotic fruits. Everyday objects become jewels and riches at the grace of his brushwork. Having spent years analysing the palette and compositions of the seventeenth century Dutch “Stilleven” painters, Chris succeeds in bringing the luxuriance and gravity of these old masters to his own expertly portrayed, modern observations. So don those hats and scarves and make time to visit this rural market town and its superb original art gallery. Surrounded by stunning countryside, you may also be able to keep at least one of those New Year Resolutions and enjoy the fresh air and a brisk country walk. 2 January 2015. The Saffron Walden Gallery, New Year Group Exhibition, 77a High Street, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1DZ. Tel: 01799 524700 eastlife.co.uk | 101

Please visit

Gallery 1066

Housing an exciting portfolio of international artists and an eclectic range of original works of art. Please visit us and our sister gallery â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;London Rowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in this historic coaching town of Baldock.

A warm welcome awaits you!

open tuesday - saturday 10am - 6pm sunday & evenings by appointment

Willow Mews, 6a Hitchin Street, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 6AE www.gallery1066fineart.com 102 | eastlife.co.uk

info@gallery1066fineart.com

tel : 01462 622233

ets

ARTS

ARTS from

Around the Region Exclusive collection by Fabian Perez available to view at Gallery 1066

ever before has acclaimed award-winning artist Fabian Perez felt quite as impelled as he did earlier in the year to produce this exquisite collection ‘English Rose’ for the UK market place. 1066 was proud to host an International VIP event for Fabian in May of this year which turned out to be far more than any of us could imagine. Quoted as ‘the world’s greatest living figurative artist of our times,’ adored worldwide with an army of collectors, Fabian, for the first time in his career chose an English beauty who was quite different to his usual style of muse. This amazing accolade was given to Sally who helps to manage Gallery 1066, it is the first time Fabian has requested an English beauty, a beauty who will be adored worldwide yet lives and works locally here in Baldock. Sally was flown out to Los Angeles where she modelled for the first time in the company of professional models. Fabian loves to work with people he meets and connects with and the results show just that, each piece creates a story on canvas and draws the viewer in by the beauty of his work, a total master at one with his paintings.

Homage to Manet

he major loan exhibition Homage to Manet at Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, which opens at the end of January 2015, explores the legacy of one of the most important and controversial artists of modern times, the French artist Edouard Manet (1832-1883). As an exhibition, Homage to Manet presents an opportunity to look at the Portrait of Mademoiselle Claus within the context of related representations of women. Manet relished painting women. By exploring the connections between Manet and Monet, as well as the next generation of artists working in Britain, notably Sargent, Sickert and Steer, the exhibition invites engaging comparisons to be made through their respective depictions of female subjects. Moreover, the exhibition then looks at how Manet paved the way for professional female artists of the early 20th century, such as Gwen John, Laura Knight and Vanessa Bell, to be able to represent themselves as thoroughly modern women in the lead up to WWI. Exclusve to Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Homage to Manet is an intelligent, thoughtprovoking, as well as visually stunning exhibition. It succeeds in succinctly summarising Manet’s legacy and reputation as one of the most important artists of modern times. The exhibition will be available Saturday 31 January to Sunday 19 April. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Norwich NR1 3JU Tel: 01603 495897

Best-selling author at Peterborough Cathedral

he UK’s best-selling female historian, Alison Weir, is to give an illustrated talk on “The Exile of Katharine of Aragon” at Peterborough Cathedral, on Friday 30 January at 7.30pm.

This is such an exclusive collection the images are not to be published on the website and are only to be sold directly to clients, there will only be an edition of 95 pieces per painting.

Alison Weir’s talk forms part of the Katharine of Aragon Festival, which takes place in Peterborough over the weekend of 30 January to 1 February 2015.

For a private viewing and the chance to meet Sally, Fabian’s English Rose please call the Gallery on 01462 622233/896164

Katharine of Aragon was buried at Peterborough Abbey in January 1536 (the Abbey became a Cathedral a few years later). Alison will tell the vivid and tragic story of Katharine’s last years.

6A Hitchin St, Baldock, Hertfordshire SG7 6AE

Tickets are on sale at £11.00. Available at the Peterborough Cathedral Shop or online via www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/134390. 103| eastlife.co.uk

NTR January listing (Eastlife Magazine) 148.5x107 copy.qxp_norfolk journal Feb v5 02/12/2014 15:07 Page 1

JANUARY BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00

Tues 20 - Sat 24 January DEAD SIMPLE Tina Hobley, Jamie Lomas, Gray O'Brien star in stage adaptation of Peter James' gripping detective tale £6.50 - £25.50 Mon 26 - Sat 31 January SISTER ACT Norfolk & Norwich Operatic Society with amateur production of feel-good musical comedy £5.50 - £21.50

Mon 12 January BEYOND THE BARRICADE Songs from the best musicals £5.50 - £20.50

BOX OFFICE

MON 12th JANUARY 8pm - 10.30pm

NORWICH JAZZ CLUB Open Mic/Jazz Jam See Page 3 FREE to participants £5 to non-participants

01603 620917

BOX OFFICE

MON 12th JANUARY 8pm - 10.30pm See Page 3 FREE to participants £5 to non-participants

MONDAY 12th JANUARY 7pm

MADDERMARKET THEATRE -

TECHNICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP

See Page 3

FREE ENTRY - PLEASE BOOK

www.maddermarket.co.uk THE MADDERMARKET FUNDRAISING St. John’s Alley GALA AUCTION Box Office 01603 620917 Norwich NR2 1DR SATURDAY 17th JANUARY

In association with TW Gaze. 5pm preview. 7pm champagne reception, 8pm auction. Come and see the array of unique items for sale. Take this opportunity to purchase parts of the Theatre’s history. From furniture (modern & antique) props, costumes (including vintage), bespoke hand-made items, curiosities, including a past Artistic Director’s bathtub! It’s all being auctioned by Mike Sarsons, from TW Gaze, live on stage at the Maddermarket Theatre. All proceeds will go towards the Maddermarket Refurbishment Appeal and our new Go Go Dragon, being specially painted by theatre designer John Stokes. TICKETS £12 CONCESSIONS £10

SATURDAY 17th JANUARY

THE MADDERMARKET FUNDRAISING GALA AUCTION In association with TW Gaze. 5pm preview. 7pm champagne reception, 8pm auction. Come and see the array of unique items for sale. Take this opportunity to purchase parts of the Theatre’s history. From furniture (modern & antique) props, costumes (including vintage), bespoke hand-made items, curiosities, including a past Artistic Director’s bathtub! It’s all being auctioned by Mike Sarsons, from TW Gaze, live on stage at the Maddermarket Theatre. All proceeds will go towards the Maddermarket Refurbishment Appeal and our new Go Go Dragon, being specially painted by theatre designer John Stokes.

BOX OFFICE

01603 620917

LUB Open Mic/Jazz Jam

ts £5 to non-participants

MONDAY 12th JANUARY 7pm MADDERMARKET THEATRE -

TECHNICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP See Page 3

TUES 20th JAN - WED 21st JAN 7.30pm

January 20th & 21st Jean Cocteau Double Bill Being performed in the new Emmerson Studio Theatre.

DOUBLE BILL PRESENTATION

In this rare opportunity to see a Jean Cocteau double bill, actress Susan Seddon and opera singer Lisa Cassidy star in two tour de force performances, in English & French. The simple conceit of a woman’s call to her partner, on the night before a life changing event, is the perfect platform for the compelling exploration of human frailty. Totally arresting and not to be missed, this is your chance Totally arresting and not to be missed, this is your chance to see the story portrayed in the intimate surroundings of to see the story portrayed in the intimate surroundings of the studio space at the Maddermarket Theatre. the studio space at the Maddermarket Theatre. Running time approximately 80 minutes. Running time approximately 80 minutes. Jean Cocteau’s Matinee Performance Francis Poulenc’s opera of THE HUMAN VOICE only, THE HUMAN Matinee Performance of THE HUMAN VOICE only, VOICE Wednesday 21st January, 1.10pm LA VOIX HUMAINE Starring Wednesday 21st January, 1.10pm CASSIDY SUSAN SEDDON Starring LISA TICKETS £7 CONCESSIONS £6 MATINEE £5 Accompanied by William Fergusson TICKETS £7 CONCESSIONS £6 MATINEE £5

January 12th Jean Cocteau’s THE HUMAN VOICE Norwich Jazz Night Special Starring SEDDON Open Mic Night,SUSAN Featuring Simon Brown & Guests on our new Yamaha grand piano, sponsered by Sonkai Jewellers.

January 22nd to Francis 31stPoulenc’s - opera LA VOIX HUMAINE Boeing Boeing by Marc Camoletti Starring LISA CASSIDY The first of Main House production Press nights sponsored by Anglia Print Ltd.

January 17th Our Maddermarket Gala Auction In association with TW Gaze auctioneers. An event where we sell off some unique items from our theatre, in aid of our Go Go Dragon & Refurbishment Appeal. 70 items sold live on stage by Mike Sarsons. Includes glass of champagne on arrival.

Y 17th JANUARY

Gaze. pagne reception, 8pm auction. of unique items for sale. Take hase parts of the Theatre’s modern & antique) props, age), bespoke hand-made items, ast Artistic Director’s bathtub! It’s ike Sarsons, from TW Gaze, live market Theatre. rds the Maddermarket nd our new Go Go Dragon, being tre designer John Stokes.

CONCESSIONS £10

TUES 20th JAN - WED 21st JAN 7.30pm

DOUBLE BILL PRESENTATION

104 | eastlife.co.uk

Accompanied by William Fergusson

February 19th to 28th The Crucible Press Night Directed by Chris Bealey, Sponsored by The Maddermarket Friends.

FREE ENTRY - PLEASE BOOK

RKET LA AUCTION

Coming Soon...

TICKETS £12 CONCESSIONS £10

TUES 20th JAN - WED 21st JAN 7.30pm January 8th DOUBLE BILL PRESENTATION Jacqui Dankworth in Concert In this rare opportunity to see a Jean Cocteau double bill, actress Susan Seddon and opera singer Lisa Cassidy star New Years Eve Music Hall gala. in two tour de force performances, in English & French. The simple conceit of a woman’s call to her partner, on the night before a life changing event, is the perfect Dinner Jacket & evening dress. platform for the compelling exploration of human frailty.

UARY 8pm - 10.30pm

NORWICH JAZZ CLUB Open Mic/Jazz Jam

Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

THEATRE STREET, NORWICH NR2 1RL

01603 620917

Sister Act

Thur 18 Dec 14 - Sun 18 Jan 15 PETER PAN Kevin Kennedy (Coronation Street), Sid Sloane (CBeebies), Richard Gauntlett star in traditional family panto £5.50 - £21

Directed by STASH KIRKBRIDE

March 19th to 28th Press Night for the Ghost Train Directed by Stash Kirkbride, sponsored by Hansell’s Solicitors.

ARTS A New Year, a New Maddermarket Theatre

n 1 May 2014 Stash Kirkbride and Peter Beck were appointed as the new Joint Creative Directors of Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich. A shared position designed especially to fit their talents and experience, it was the beginning of enabling them to reinvigorate and energize new life into one of the true gems of theatre in Norfolk. Fast forward to January 2015 and visitors will be pleasantly surprised with the transformation of this 100 year old theatre. “It’s one of the city’s most iconic buildings and deserves the time, energy and investment,” said a proud Stash. However, the theatres new look has been so much more than a lick of paint. What makes the re-launch special is the community spirit and support of volunteers that have contributed to the theatre’s revamp. Over the past eight months over 20 direct volunteers and 10 additional staff have helped save money. “We couldn’t have done it without them,” explained Stash. Phase one of the project has seen a newly refurbished and rebuilt theatre bar and art gallery. Partnering with Redwell Brewery of Trowse, the theatre has collectively shared the costs of transforming the actual bar into something to be proud of. “We wanted to work with a company that was happening,” said Stash. “Redwell Brewery was the perfect fit.” Features include bespoke wine rack shelving and real oak bar tops and back walls. Modernisation of all the work areas behind the bar, copper lighting and timeless herring bone style black and white tiling on the front of the bar. Through the help of Wensum Point Carpets, new carpet has been laid throughout the public areas of the theatre, including the newly refurbished Corporate Members Balcony. This rather tired area of the theatre has at last been lifted up to its full potential, and is about to play host to new 12 Production Sponsors, another first for the theatre. A history with the theatre enabled Wensum Point

Carpets to give generously offering a quote £6,000 less than anyone else. Visitors will be unable to pull their eyes away from the striking vast picture montage, which is hung on the main feature wall in the bar/gallery featuring production photos from the last 100 years of the Norwich Players productions at the Maddermarket Theatre. This would have cost over £3,500 and has been sponsored by two of the 12 sponsors, GGS Photography and Anglia Print Ltd. Stash said: “The beautiful 20ft by 20ft montage was created in kind as I like to say. There are lots of people that offer, what we call “adventure capital” in Norfolk. They give kindly. We received an anonymous cheque of £1,000. It’s not about giving money; it’s about receiving and putting back into the community.” The kind generosity of the local community and businesses is what makes this revamp so wonderful. Stash continued: “Importantly, as with any good plan, we knew we had to spend, save and bring in money, all at the same time. And to this end we have reached out and secured a completely new partnership with no less than 12 new businesses and individuals, all of whom, like us, share a long term passion of this beautifully situated theatre space in the centre of Norwich.” The 12 new sponsors include Hansells Solicitors, Redwell Brewery, GGS Photography & Anglia Print Ltd, Sonkai Jewellers, Newmakers PR, Head In The Clouds, Wensum Point Carpets, Thorns, Arnolds Keys, Maddermaket Theatre Friends and RD Guest Plumbing. Each of which will sponsor a production throughout the year. The next step is to continue with the refurbishment of the back stage. “For the first time there will be new showers, we want to make it more user friendly for visiting companies,” said Stash. “It’s an on-going project. The theatre will be given a lot of TLC over the next two years. We hope it will look shiny and new ready for the next 50 years by 2017.” eastlife.co.uk | 105

LIFESTYLE

Thorpeness – The Living Neverland

Peter Pan was a firm favourite for the region’s pantos this year, but did you know Thorpeness was at the heart of its inspiration? “All children, except one, grow up.” So wrote author JM Barrie – and that one exception was his best loved children’s character, Peter Pan.

granny would have happily enjoyed as a child and an atmosphere of old-fashioned charm where time, if not standing still, seems to run at a slower pace

The tale of Peter’s adventures in Neverland still has an enduring appeal today. Perhaps adults enjoy panto as much as children do for the very notion it conjures up of carefree childhood – especially when the frenetic demands of modern-day adulthood leave many feeling slightly beleaguered.

This quintessentially English village, which recently celebrated its centenary, is straight out of a 1930s children’s storybook. You really wouldn’t be surprised to encounter the Famous Five roaring round the corner on their bikes.

Thorpeness was a destination often visited by JM Barrie, a friend of the Ogilvie family, and his tale of Peter Pan inspired the naming of islands and play areas on the Meare, turning it into a children’s paradise.

In addition to the stunning lake, there’s a country club with tennis courts, a golf course laid out in 1922 by famous course designer James Braid, a boathouse and tearoom that must have one of the best vistas anywhere, plus a wide expanse of unspoiled shingle beach and miles of stunning coastal walks through an area of outstanding natural beauty.

As the Christmas panto at Norwich Theatre Royal heads into its last few weeks, communications officer Judy Foster visited the village to check out its historic Peter Pan connection and to see if its reputation as the ‘living Neverland’ for the young and the young-at-heart still holds good.

If you want to press the pause button on the modern world for a while, and fresh air and the big outdoors is your thing, then Thorpeness has it in spades, whether you’re on a day trip or a longer break.

Thorpeness is quite unlike any other holiday destination I’ve ever been to. It has unusual buildings that make your eyes pop in disbelief, activities your 106 | eastlife.co.uk

The clubhouse stands above the village and boasts a superb view of the Meare. Its beautiful woodpanelled bar, adjoining patio bar and terrace serves a good range of meals, while its restaurant overlooks

ARTS

the beautifully manicured 3rd tee. The approach on the 18th as you head for the clubhouse must be one of the most picturesque of any fairway with its view of two of the village’s most iconic buildings – the windmill, which was moved from nearby Aldringham in 1923, and one of the country’s most famous follies, the House in the Clouds. Available for private holiday lets (www. houseintheclouds.co.uk), this was originally a water tower ingeniously disguised as a cottage, floating above the trees and overlooking the golf course and the Meare. The pulsing heart at the centre of Thorpeness is undoubtedly the Meare. A shallow 40-acre lake, it was dug by hand over one winter between 1912-1913 and, with child safety uppermost in mind, is no more than three-feet deep anywhere.

Crocodile Island Circa 1930 Regatta Race

As a family friend of the Ogilivies, JM Barrie visited Thorpeness on many occasions and the Meare drew inspiration from his Peter Pan story with its islands and inlets given names such as Pirates’ Lair, Wendy’s House, Crocodile Island, Peter Pan’s Island and the Fort (other place names come from Treasure Island and the Water Babies). The Meare is open every day from 8.30am until 5.30pm from the start of the Easter holidays through to the end of the October half term - details at www.thorpenessmeare.co.uk. The Meare is drained during the winter months and cleaned out. We spent a calming hour boating making our way round the pretty inlets and channels. The views from the water are stunning and for one used to motorboats on the Norfolk Broads, it was particularly peaceful just the occasionally whoop of joy from other boat users. With the theatre’s up-coming Peter Pan panto in mind, we hunted out Crocodile Island, Wendy’s House and other related place names. I could easily imagine what fun it is for children to dip into this make-believe world. After our adventure, we stopped off at the Meare Shop and Tea Room for a well-earned cream tea and scrumptious cakes. Part of the village’s great charm is it has barely changed much since its original conception, partly due to its remaining under the tight control of successive generations of Olgivies. When the grandson of its founder died on the golf course in 1972, parts of the estate had to be sold to pay death duties – and it could have meant the end of the ‘living Neverland’ dream. Thankfully it didn’t. It might not be to everyone’s taste but if you are brave enough to leave the laptop and mobile phone at home, then this is a place to come to

Wendy’s House stop the world for a while and recharge your batteries. Not only will your youngsters experience the kind of old-fashioned freedom to play and roam in safety that is increasingly difficult to find anywhere these days, but you’ll also reconnect with your own inner child. Thorpeness still retains its air of other-worldliness – it is a very special place - a true Neverland. Peter Pan at Norwich Theatre Royal is available until 18 January Box Office: 01603 630000

eastlife.co.uk | 107

press advert 15th open arts 71x107_Layout 1 27/11/2014 14:22 Page

Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts An inspirational public art museum in a beautiful campus setting

sponsored by:

Artists across the East Midlands region are invited to submit entries to be considered for the

Current Special Exhibition:

15th South Holland

REALITY: Modern and Contemporary British Painting Until 1st March 2015*

Coming Soon:

open rts Exhibition

Francis Bacon and the Masters Opening 18th April 2015*

Free admission to permanent collections *Temporary exhibition, charges apply

@sainsburycentre

Opening Times Tuesday - Friday 10am-6pm

/sainsburycentre

Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, 01603 593199, www.scva.ac.uk

Photo: Pete Huggins

Saturday - Sunday, 10am-5pm

For more information and an application form contact the Community Development team on 01775 761161, visit the South Holland Centre, Spalding, or go to www.sholland.gov.uk

Deadline for applications is 30th January 2015 Exhibition will run from 5th - 12th March 2015

A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Production

From the writer of Calendar Girls

SPRING | SUMMER 2015

PERFORMANCES 2FACED DANCE

INUA ELLAMS, BENJI REID

WAYNE MCGREGOR | RANDOM DANCE

NEW ART CLUB

6 FEBRUARY

20 & 21 FEBRUARY

U.DANCE EAST 22 FEBRUARY

29 & 30 MAY

MOVE | BE MOVED FESTIVAL 21 JUNE – 1 JULY

AAKASH ODEDRA COMPANY

NEVSKI PROSPEKT in association with MOKO DANCE

UNIT

GANDINI JUGGLING

JAMES WILTON DANCE

NATIONAL YOUTH DANCE COMPANY | SIDI LARBI CHERKAOUI

6 MARCH

14 MARCH 20 MARCH

WILKIE BRANSON & SALLY COOKSON

by Tim Firth

directed by Karen Simpson

17 JUNE

‘excellent... splendidly funny and touching’

22 JUNE

Daily Telegraph

26 JUNE

Thurs 22 – Sat 31 January 2015

21 JULY

Box Office 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

17 & 18 APRIL

ROBERT CLARK 1 MAY

THEO CLINKARD 15 MAY

On TOur • Rose TheaTRe KingsTon • new wolsey TheaTRe iPswiCh Supported by

The Leche Trust The Williams Charitable Foundation Media Sponsors

108 | eastlife.co.uk

-n-thin l o

Come in and see us for all your knitting, crochet, cross stitch, tapestry, haberdashery needs. Or 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 at one of our workshops. Please phone or email for further details OPENING TIMES Monday - 9.30 - 5.00 Tuesday 9.30 - 5.00 Wednesday 9.30 - 5.00 Thursday 9.30 - 3.00 Friday 9.30 - 5.00 Saturday 9.30 - 5.00

3-5 Hitchin Street, Baldock, Herts SG7 6AL

01462 612889

Email: info@wool-n-things.co.uk

www.wool-n-things.co.uk

Sales Diary 2015 Fine Antiques with Clocks & Watches th

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

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

Books & Ephemera

13th March (pm) 27th November

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

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

Country Sale

Ornithology

Every Monday (Tuesday after a Bank Holiday)

Picture & Prints

Commercial & Deadstock Sale

4th September

6th February 10th April 8th May 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

Palmers Lane, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6JA 01263 733195 salerooms@keysauctions.co.uk

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eastlife.co.uk | 109

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NORFOLK

What’s on in

THEATRE & SHOWS 8-Jan John Internationally renowned DV8 Physical Theatre bring their powerful new production to the National Theatre. Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss, IP22 4LB. 01379 652241 12-Jan Beyond the Barricade This show re-creates original West End/Broadway musical hit songs with amazing authenticity and features a cast of past principal performers from the West End production of Les Miserables. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 14-17 Jan Mark Watson: Flaws TV regular and star of cult Radio 4 series ‘Mark Watson Makes The World Substantially Better’ returns to the road. This is his darkest, most personal show yet.Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 17-Jan The Gingerbread Man A storytelling with magic, music and audience participation of David’s world-famous play, book, TV series featuring Herr Von Cuckoo, Mr Salt, Miss Pepper, the Old Tea Bag, the ever-hungry Sleek the Mouse and, of course, The Gingerbread Man. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 17-Jan Sing-a-Long-a-FROZEN All the usual suspects of lyrics on screen to sing along with together with a live host and a magic moments fun pack so that you can interact with the movie. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 17-Jan Arts Award Explore Day Explorers start the day by seeing a performance of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and afterwards meet the performers to ask them questions. Then a peek into the world behind-the-scenes, where they can meet the team and have a look backstage. Norwich Puppet Theatre, Whitefriars, Norwich, NR3 1TN. 01603 629921

Norfolk EDITOR’S CHOICE

and winning the heart of the nation all over again. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 22-Jan Treasure Island A thrilling new adaptation by Bryony Lavery. Westacre Theatre, River Road, King’s Lynn, PE32 1UD. 01760 755 800

Knights Hill Hotel Norfolk Two Day Antiques Fair 3-4 January quality antiques fairs is Twillhis under new management and host around 35 exhibitors

offering a wide selection of items to include silver, fine jewellery, ceramics, glass, clocks, militaria, oriental art, portrait miniatures, art deco, small furniture and more. Set in the stunning 18th Century (heated and carpeted) Barns, the fairs location adds to the atmopshere. Admission is £3 (accommpanied unders 16’s are free) and the fair will be open from 10.30am until 4pm both days. Knights Hill Hotel, South Wootton, King’s Lynn, PE30 3HQ Tel: 07596 436260 www.norfolkfairs.com

20-24 Jan Peter James’ Dead Simple This year, the best-selling work of the No.1 novelist returns to the stage in 2015 with the adaptation of his most famous and popular book to date, and the first book that featured James’ now famous character of Detective Roy Grace – Dead Simple. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL, 01603 630000. 22-Jan Jim Davidson Live ‘No Further Action’ will see Jim tell the story of his arrest and the nightmare 12 months that followed, the clearing of his name

24-Jan The Reduced Shakespeare Company From cavemen telling Rock Rock jokes to Chris Rock and everything in-between, the bad boys of abridgment leave no joke untold as they deconstruct the entire history of comedy. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 24-Jan The Supper Club This outrageous and absurd cabaret comedy parodies our obsession with celebrity chefs, etiquette and explores what it takes to satisfy a group of hungry guests as Minnie’s plans of a perfect evening are dashed. Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 26-31 Jan Sister Act Nightclub singer Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a crime. Sit back and see the hilarious exploits as she takes refuge in the last place anyone would look for her – a convent. Under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 29-Jan Comedy Club Nothing beats the buzz of live comedy and the comedians lined up tonight will do their best to make you laugh out loud. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 MUSIC 9-Jan The Pasadena Roof Orchestra The orchestras’ treasure trove of original arrangements has been augmented by brand-new eastlife.co.uk |111

NORFOLK orchestrations and transcriptions from the great British dance bands such as Ray Noble or Roy Fox. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 12-Jan Tobias Ben Jacob and Lukas Drinkwater Tobias ben Jacob is a Devon based alternative singer/ songwriter hailing originally from Preston. The Bicycle Shop, 17 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, NR2 4PE. 01603 625777 14-Jan Hattie Briggs Hattie’s impressive and unorthodox journey through the folk and acoustic music scene began with her decision in January to drop out of a Russian degree at Oxford University and return to her Gloucestershire home to focus on songwriting. The Bicycle Shop, 17 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, NR2 4PE. 01603 625777 17-Jan True Gold: Spandau Ballet Tribute The UK’s No1 Spandau Ballet Tribute band, ‘True Gold’, knows how to interact with their audience and will take you straight back to the 80s. OPEN, 20 Bank Plain, Norwich, NR2 4SF. 01603 763111 18-Jan Hayseed Dixie The band performs a mixture of cover versions of hard rock songs and original compositions in a style that is a fusion of bluegrass and rock music and they are acknowledged as the creators of the musical genre Rockgrass. The Waterfront, 139-141 King Street, Norwich, NR1 1QH. 01603 632717 20-Jan Fish and Bird Hot Canadian five-piece ‘Fish and Bird’ have received praise on both sides of the Atlantic for their refreshingly unclichéd writing. The Bicycle Shop, 17 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, NR2 4PE. 01603 625777 20-Jan James Veck-Gilodi ‘Deaf Havana’ frontman James Veck-Gilodi has teamed up with bandmate Max Britton to debut their new project. Norwich Arts Centre, 51 St Benedicts Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 21-Jan Luke Wright + The Tiger’s Bride Luke Wright presents a scratch performance of ‘What I Learned From Johnny Bevan’; a breathtaking spoken story about friendship, the class divide, and a really bad idea for a festival. Norwich Arts Centre, 51 St Benedicts

Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 21-Jan Honey and The Bear Suffolk songwriters Jon Hart and Lucy Sampson have recently been collaborating on a new set of original songs that echo new shoots on old roots. The Bicycle Shop, 17 St Benedicts Street , Norwich, NR2 4PE. 01603 625777 21-Jan Britten Sinfonia: Sarah Connolly in America American music is something of a giant melting pot, an exhilarating blend of wide open spaces, dance rhythms, traditional hymn tunes and jazz, with composers often taking something of what was happening across the pond in Europe and carving out an identity of their own. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 24-Jan Paul Jones & Dave Kelly Founder members of The Blues Band, Paul Jones and Dave Kelly’s roots go way back into the true undergrowth of the tradition. As well as playing their own original material, they not only perform the work of the greats, ranging from Howling’ Wolf, John Lee Hooker through to Sonny Boy Williamson - they actually played alongside them, and enjoyed their friendship. Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas Street, Diss, IP22 4LB. 01379 652241 31-Jan The Elvis Years An outstanding concert production of the West End musical ‘Jailhouse Rock’ featuring original star Mario Kombou and his incredible band led by legendary producer, musical director and Ivor Novello award-winner David Mackay, in the UK’s number one Elvis show. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1 Jan-1 Feb Crossroads of Empires The exhibition shares the experience of pursuing research into the African past, both to communicate the rich history of Africa and to provide a window into the modern landscape and culture of Africa, as well as giving a sense of what it is like to work there. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 593199 1 Jan-1 Feb Photography of African Migration Looking at the transatlantic slave trade and contemporary migration, photographers Hélène Amouzou, Mamadou Gomis and

Judith Quax examine migration from West Africa. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 593199 17 Jan-11 Feb Chris Harrison and Jane Wheeler Photography by Chris Harrison inspired by the harbours, quays and staithes of Norfolk & Suffolk. Handbuilt ceramics by Jane Wheeler. Bircham Gallery, Market Place, Holt. NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 31 Jan-19 Apr Homage to Manet at Norwich Castle The major loan exhibition Homage to Manet at Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, which opens at the end of January, 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 SPECIAL EVENTS 4-Jan Blakeney Book Fair Second-hand and Antiquarian books for the collector, dealer or casual reader. The Church Rooms, On the Quay, Blakeney NR25 7AL. 01263 741690 11-Jan Militaria Fair Up to 70 indoor stalls selling a diverse range of quality militaria from some of the countries leading Militaria Specialists to include Deacts, swords, bayonets, uniforms and more. Breckland Leisure Centre, Croxton Road, Thetford, IP24 1JD. 07596 43626 17-18 Jan The British Carp and Angling Show East Anglia’s biggest & best Carp and Angling event will return in 2015 with even more bait, tackle, big names and deals on all of the latest fishing gear. Royal Norfolk Showground, New Costessey, Norwich, NR5 0TT. 01702 549623 24-Jan Flea Market Offering a wide and varied range of collectables including old favourites such as postcards, ephemera, coins, badges and more. There are also traditional small antiques and for the intrepid bargain hunter there is always plenty of bric-a brac to enjoy sifting through. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 eastlife.co.uk | 113

AREA FOCUS

VISIT

Fakenham & Dereham

ying side by side between Kings Lynn and Norwich, these two towns make for an interesting visit Fakenham A historic and attractive market town Fakenham is positioned half way between Norwich and Kings Lynn. It is situated on the River Wensum and often said to be the ‘Gateway to the North Norfolk coast’. Plenty of history lies within Fakenham, it was originally granted its Market Charter in 1250. Stalls occupied space around the 14th Century Parish Church of St.Peter and St. Paul, an imposing building, which still provides the focal point of the town today. Things to do The town has been voted the seventh best place to live in the UK by Country Life magazine and with something for every to enjoy it’s no surprise it’s topping the ranks when it comes to country living. The town’s most famous attraction is of course Fakenham

Racecourse. The course has a history dating back to the early 1900s and unlike most courses it has no formal dress code and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an exciting day out for people of all ages. Fakenham gasworks is the only surviving type of its kind in England and Wales. It ceased production in 1965 and reopened in 1987 as the Fakenham Museum of Gas and Local History. It retains original equipment as well as a section of the museum dedicated to local history and is worth a visit. The museum is open open 26th May to 26th September and Thursday mornings during spring and autumn. The town’s busy Thursday market starts early in the morning until mid-afternoon with a range of great bargains to be had from local traders. Those looking to

find a hidden treasure should check out the section devoted to collectors’ items and bric-a-brac. Fakenham also boasts a popular Farmers’ Market, which takes place on the fourth Saturday of every month. Fresh local produce, organic food and drink and a wide range of homemade delicacies are on offer right in the centre of town. You’re spoilt for choice if you want to have a meal or fancy a swift pint. There are eight pubs within walking distance of the centre and a host of takeaway and restaurants. Dereham Dereham is at the heart of Norfolk. The town has historically been linked with agriculture but today is a gateway to open countryside, warm cosy pubs and friendly accommodation. eastlife.co.uk | 115

AREA FOCUS

Within the area you’ll discover stately homes, theatres, wildlife parks, the Broads and charming harbours. At the same time Dereham has its own attractions and an expanding shopping scene. Free parking allows time to seek out restaurants and tearooms and visit hostelries where the poet William Cowper or the author George Borrow may have downed a glass or two. For sporting enthusiasts there’s tennis, golf and bowls and nature lovers can stroll the Neatherd Moor and the Vicarage Meadow or relax in the walled Queen Mother’s Garden. Things to do Nearby Bishop Bonner’s Cottage is a delightful early 16th century timber framed thatched building, which was once three cottages and is now the town museum. The Tourist Information Centre is located along side the building. One of the town’s most focal buildings is home to Hollywood Cinema, which has a great film table, hosts special events and bargain seats on a Tuesday. It’s a great place to escape the cold this January. In the centre of Dereham directly opposite the Council Assembly Rooms, is the War Memorial. This monument was erected in1922 to honour all of the East Dereham heroes who died in the Great War. Residents are also particularly proud of Dereham’s windmill, which was restored in 2013 and is open to the public as a community exhibition centre. A must for visitors is a trip to the close by Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse. Here visit the history of a time past and see the recreations of craftsman’s workshops, a bakery, shop and cottage. The museum is a great day out whether you want to learn about the lives of Norfolk people in the past or relax and have a good time with your friends and family. You’ll need a whole day to begin to discover all of its wonders. Gressenhall Farm is closed during the winter but will be open for February Half Term from Monday 16 to Friday 20 February 2015, 10am to 4pm.

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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 453159.

www.thebusway.info East168x240_TBW_Feb 2014.indd 1

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE

What’s on in

Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 4-Jan Moscow City Ballet: Romeo & Juliet ‘Romeo and Juliet’ is probably the world’s most famous love story, following the fate of the star-crossed lovers from their first meeting to their tragic deaths. Set to Prokofiev’s dramatic score, all the vibrancy of Renaissance Verona is brought to life in this powerful production. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 5-Jan JOHN The company’s new production, ‘JOHN’, authentically depicts real-life stories, combining movement and spoken word to create an intense and moving theatrical experience. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 9-10 Jan Here Be Dragons A new musical inspired by maps and journeys and the paths that they create through the imagination, storytelling and song. The journey will pass through the streets of Cambridge, the mountains of the Himalayas and the worlds of myth and fantasy. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 13-17 Jan The Authentic Life of Billy the Kid In a run-down New Mexico ranch house in 1908, the ageing Pat Garrett lives alone with his memories. Ash Upson, ghostwriter of Garrett’s book about the 1881 shooting of Billy the Kid at Fort Sumner, finds Pat in bad financial straits, having squandered his chances for fame, wealth and glory in his later years. Corpus Playroom, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 300085 16-17 Jan Roberto Zucco/ Baal Double Bill In a series of poetic, fast-moving scenes, Koltès takes his hero, based on a real life serial killer, on a mythical journey through a

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Alison Weir tells the story of Katharine of Aragon’s exile Friday 30 January 7.30pm at Peterborough Cathedral Tudor history fans will love this! Best-selling historian and novelist, Alison Weir will speak at the 2015 Katharine of Aragon Festival. Katharine, the first wife of Henry VIII was buried at Peterborough Cathedral in January 1536, having died at Kimbolton Castle. Alison will tell the vivid and tragic story of Katharine’s last years in exile. The talk will be followed by Q&A, bookstall and book signing. Tickets: £11 (£5.50 under 18s) from via www.peterboroughcathedral.org.uk or on the door. landscape of strange and violent beauty. Baal is a drunk, a singer, a murderer, a poet, and a womaniser. In Brecht’s words an ‘antisocial in an antisocial society’, his story is told as in this wild, expressionist masterpiece. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320

21-24 Jan Three Men in a Boat Craig Gilbert’s ingenious, acclaimed adaption of Jerome K Jerome’s classic tale of boating misadventure returns to the UK stage this Spring armed with more singing, wilder adventures and sporting even brighter blazers. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333

22-Jan 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. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 23-Jan Sara Pascoe vs History With a comedy brain that leaps from stimulating arguments onto abstract confabulation with lumpy doses of openness, honesty and earnestness, Sara shares her romantic history, existential theory and cultural insights. The Junction Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 28-Jan An Evening of Mediumship with Psychic Tony Stockwell It’s Psychic Medium Tony Stockwell demonstrating his belief that those who have passed can communicate with their loved ones. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 30-Jan Cambridge Storytellers: The Grateful and the Dead, by Ben Haggarty Dark, beautiful and startling by turn, this is a story of dreams, initiations and the repayment of debts – a journey from innocence to experience, which delves into a disconcertingly familiar narrative world. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 30-Jan Omid Djalili A firm favourite with his legendary performances, Omid’s stand-up awards include; Time Out Award and EMMA Award for Best Stand Up. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 31-Jan The Johnny Cash Story Tribute to Johnny Cash with all the classics. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239

eastlife.co.uk | 119

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE 31-Jan Mark Watson: Flaws He may not have all the answers to life’s most serious questions, but ‘Flaws’ is sure to both humour and touch every generation of comedy fan. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851

per year every year in dozens of countries. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511

18-Jan Britten Sinfonia: Sarah Connolly A journey across the American musical landscape with works by MUSIC Aaron Copland, Eliot Carter, Ruth Crawford Seeger and Richard 9-Jan Nils Lofgren Rodney Bennett. West Road Known for his world-class guitar Concert Hall, 11 West Road, playing and his on-stage acroCambridge, CB3 9DP. batics, Nils Lofgren is a true Rock 01223 335184 legend in his own right. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler 22-Jan An Evening with Tommy Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. Emmanuel 01223 357851 Tommy Emmanuel is one of Australia’s most respected and 11-Jan Epiphanytide best-loved musicians, his awardProcession winning career now spans five This Procession holds together decades and multiple genres these three ‘strands’ of the including jazz, rock, blues and Epiphany in an attempt to reflect country. Cambridge Corn Exnot only on the Biblical accounts change. Wheeler Street, Camand their meanings, but also on bridge. CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 the consequences for the Church of Christ’s coming among us. 23-Jan Royal Northern Sinfonia Ely Cathedral, Chapter House, Northern Sinfonia became Royal Ely, CB7 4DL. 01353 667735 Northern Sinfonia in June 2013 after the title was bestowed on 13-Jan Britten Sinfonia At Lunch 2 the orchestra by HM The Queen. Featuring music for piano, cello Cambridge Corn Exchange, and violin by Debussy, Faure and Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 a new work by Kaija Saariaho. 3QB. 01223 357851 West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 28-Jan Classic Rock Show 2015 01223 335184 This critically acclaimed show celebrates its fifth birthday in 2015, 14-Jan Damien Barber and Mike and will toast the occasion in the Wilson best possible fashion with some Raised in Norfolk and heavily of the greatest moments in rock influenced by such earlier Norfolk guitar history. Cambridge Corn singers as Walter Pardon and Exchange, Wheeler Street, CamPeter Bellamy, Damien is a stylbridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 ish and distinctive singer, either unaccompanied or using guitar ARTS & EXHIBITIONS or concertina. Ely Folk Club, 13 St 1 Dec-8 Feb Fatal ConsequencMary’s Street, Ely, CB7 4ER. es: The Chapman Brothers and 01353 740999 Goya’s Disasters of War The exhibition takes Goya’s print 15-Jan Laura Jurd’s Human Spirit series of the same title and reinThe songs enter the realms of rock vents and extends the imagery and folk music whilst providing and horrors with a cornucopia of a platform for improvisation and ideas from later wars and modern creative dialogue between the culture. The Fitzwilliam Museum, musicians. Think electric-Miles Trumpington Street, Cambridge, meets street band with a folkloric CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 twist. Hidden Rooms, Jesus Lane, Cambridge, CB5 8BA. 01223 1-25 Jan 1914: War and Money 514777 This display of coins, medals, banknotes and government 16-Jan Ken Nicol bonds provides an insight into the Ken Nicol is a highly acclaimed desperate measures that had to musician, singer, songwriter, probe used to maintain a supply of ducer, playwright and composer. money. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Huntingdon Commemoration Trumpington Street, Cambridge, Hall, 39 High Street, Huntingdon, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 PE29 3AQ. 01480 411883 17-Jan Hayseed Dixie Since 2000, ‘Hayseed Dixie’ has continued to perform a live touring schedule of around 100 shows

2 Dec-22 Feb Fenscapes and Foreign Lands Showing in Squires Coffeehouse at the Museum will be a selec-

tion of watercolours by local artist David Swinton. Evidences of man in the landscape are the sort of subjects that encourage him to paint, especially ancient barns, abandoned farm machinery, derelict mines and old boats. Peterborough Museum, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LF. 01733 864663

6 Dec-1 Mar Beauty and Revolution: The Poetry and Art of Ian Hamilton Finlay The exhibition traces Ian Hamilton Finlay’s artistic development from the poems that made him Britain’s most internationally acclaimed concrete poet to the images and texts that marked his engagement with the ideas of the French Revolution. Kettle’s Yard, Castle Street, Cambridge, CB3 0AQ. 01223 748100 SPECIAL EVENTS 3-4 Jan St Ives Antiques and Art Deco Fair With more than 45 dealers, all of whom are experts in their field, offering a wide array of pictures and paintings, militaria, fine glass, porcelain and more, plus a lovely selection of vintage accessories. Burgess Hall, Westwood Road, St Ives, PE27 6WU. 01480 896866 10-Jan Exotic Cat Society Cat Show This is a championship cat show held every year with usually have around 80 cats in competition, which are Persians, Exotic Shorthairs and Household Pets. Community Centre, Broad Drove, East Wisbech, PE13 5LN. 01945 780027 15-16 Jan Willow Weaving Workshop Learn the techniques of willow weaving by creating and taking home your own obelisk. Ticket includes all materials, tea/coffee provided. Please bring your own lunch. Tickets £50. Peckover House and Garden, N Brink, Wisbech, PE13 1JR. 01945 583463 16-Jan Italian Speaking and Cooking workshop All levels are catered for from beginners upwards. Food is prepared and eaten together in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. L’Italiano in bocca. 122 Tenison Road, Cambridge, CB4 1DH. 01223 312099 20-Jan Curiosity in Cambridge An illustrated talk by Brian Woods. St Andrew’s Hall, St Andrew’s Road, Cambridge. 01223 368 279

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122 | eastlife.co.uk

AREA FOCUS

DISCOVER THE HISTORY OF

ELY

t may be small but Ely is jam-packed with exciting things to do and places to visit

Nestled in the beautiful Fen countryside, Ely is an inspiring and invigorating city. Home to one of the most outstanding cathedrals in England, Ely offers character and charm and is a great base for exploring the nearby small towns and villages. Attractions The city has a rich history and is home to Oliver Cromwell’s House where he lived with his family for 10 years. Located on St Mary’s Street, the tourist information centre is based here and a number of informative tours are available from this point. The house is thought to be haunted by Oliver Cromwell with several ghostly sightings having been reported over the years. With its rich history the whole city lends itself as the perfect place for a tale or two. If you are feeling brave, you may want

to venture on one of the ghost tours of Ely, led by the author of Haunted Ely, Margaret Haynes. With a little help and imagination, sometimes Black Shuck can even be seen as you are taken through the haunted sights of the City and the Benedictine Monks occasionally can be seen crossing the grass outside the Cathedral. Food & Drink Whether you’re on a day trip or looking to spend the weekend in this stunning city, you’ll be spoilt for restaurant and hotel recommendations. Most visitors to Ely fall for the charms of the Peacock Tearoom located on the waterfront. Embodying the true essence of a quintessentially English tearoom, the Peacock Tearoom offers a fabulous selection of teas and delicious homemade cakes and

sandwiches. The establishment now also offers two delightful B&B suites. Another firm favourite is The Old Fire Engine House, which is both a restaurant and art gallery in one. Situated just west of the cathedral in an attractive Georgian house with a large walled garden stocked with many old English fruit trees, herbs and flowers, the restaurant offers traditional farmhouse food relying on locally sourced ingredients and fenland recipes. What’s on Forget dry January, this month experience the finest local ale at the Elysian Winter Beer Festival taking place at the Maltings in Ely from 30 to 31 January. eastlife.co.uk | 123

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ESSEX

What’s on in

Essex

THEATRE & SHOWS 5-10 Jan The Woman in Black Unanimously acclaimed by critics, ‘The Woman in Black’ combines the power and intensity of live theatre with a cinematic quality inspired by the world of film noir. The formula delivers an evening of unremitting drama, transporting the audience into a terrifying and ghostly world. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 14-18 Jan The Pied Piper of Hamelin The Wednesday Players present ‘The Pied Piper of Hamelin’. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 15-Jan Jimmy Tarbuck Top television comedian Jimmy Tarbuck swaps the London Palladium for the Queen’s Theatre. He will be demonstrating his quickfire wit and enetertaining the audience in a show which promises comedy for grownups rather than adult comedy. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 16-Jan Circus of Horrors The story twists and turns with grisly murders and sensational shock’s – all interwoven with some of the greatest and most bizarre circus acts on earth, sword swallowers, knife throwers, daredevil balancing acts, astounding aerialists & much more. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southendon-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Ben Portsmouth: The King is Back 22 Jan, 8pm, Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-Sea en Portsmouth captures, with remarkable accuracy, each stage of Elvis’s career whilst maintaining a style and presence of his own. Experience the essence and spirit of what it must have been like to see the young King perform. With stunning costumes and superb musicianship, this is one of the best Elvis tributes performing today. Ben made history when he won the Elvis Presley Enterprises “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest’”, the only artist from outside the USA to ever win this prestigious title. Tickets priced from £18. Tel: 01702 351135

bizarre world of burlesque and cutting-edge variety. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948

17-24 Jan Puss in Boots Based on a traditional story of a penniless Miller’s Son who inherits a magical talking cat and sets of on a wonderful adventure, the tale is given a modern twist and lots of surprises. Braintree Arts Centre, Notley Road, Braintree CM7 1WY. 01376 556354

20-24 Jan No Sex Please, We’re British Peter and Frances could reasonably expect to look forward to a calm, happy start to their married life together. Owing to an unfortunate mistake, however, they find themselves inundated with pornographic material from the “Scandinavian Import Company”. Old Court Theatre, 233 Springfield Road, Chelmsford CM2 6JT. 01245 606505

17-Jan An Evening of Burlesque Arriving direct from London’s West End, a fresh cast of burlesque allstars are unveiled for 2015. Enjoy an all-new riotous romp into the

21-31 Jan 42nd Street Set during the height of The Great Depression on the Great White Way, the show follows a Broadway producer who puts on what

may be his last show, however at the last moment a chorus girl has to replace the star. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 23-Jan Beyond the Barricade This production will include many of the musicals that have made it the UK’s leading concert of its kind, including Miss Saigon, The Lion King and many more hit musical productions. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 24-Jan Heaven is for Real Sony Pictures Publicity claims ‘Heaven is for Real’ brings to the screen the true story of a smalltown father who must find the courage and conviction to share his son’s extraordinary, life-changing experience with the world. Brentwood Theatre, Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305 24-Jan Roy Chubby Brown He’s still rude, he’s still crude and this time he’s turning headlines into punch lines as his rip-roaring brand of banter continues to burst bellies across the country. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 24-Jan Sing-a-long-a Sound of Music A screening of the classic 1965 Julie Andrews film in glorious, full screen technicolour, complete with subtitles so the whole audience can sing along. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 26-31 Jan The History Boys Set in the 1980s, ‘The History Boys’ is the story of a group of bright, funnyand unruly sixth-formers in pursuit of sex, sport and a place at university. Their maverick English teacher is at odds with the young and shrewd supply teacher, whilst their headmaster is obsessed with results and league tables. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 eastlife.co.uk | 127

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ESSEX 28-Jan Brendan Cole A Night To Remember Brendan, one of Strictly Come Dancing’s most charismatic choreographers and performers, will host throughout as he leads his cast on a journey of music and dance in a spectacular night of theatrical entertainment. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southendon-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 30-Jan Ross Noble As one of the most successful cult comedians of our time, Ross has established himself as a household name. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 30-Jan Jethro - The Legend at large Cornish comedy legend Jethro is back, as large as life and on tour with his very own brand of irresistible West Country tales for a fun-filled night of adult comedy. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505

Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 16-Jan Johnny Cash Roadshow This year prepare for a musical adventure unrivalled by any other that truly celebrates the career of a music legend, Johnny Cash. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT.01206 573948 17-Jan Houghton Weavers ‘Houghton Weavers’ entertain their audiences with humorous jokes and antidotes and sing popular folk songs from raucous traditional songs to beautiful ballads done in their own inimitable style. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 24-Jan Waterloo - A Tribute to Abba The Abba sound is replicated with an incredible attention to detail by a full live cast and band with stunning costumes and breathtaking choreography. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG . 01245 606505

30 Jan-21 Feb Deadly Murder Full of twists and turns, bluffs and double bluffs, this brilliantly intricate thriller will be one step ahead of you all the way. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane , Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333

25-Jan The Sensational 60s Show For one night only six legendary names take to the stage and deliver to you a night never to be forgotten and never to be seen again. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135

31-Jan Vampires Rock Steve Steinman plays the supremely evil Baron Von Rockula owner of the Live and Let Die club. In search of a new bride the Baron must convince the unsuspecting Pandora who auditions for the new singing position, to cross over to the dark side and live for ever in Rock’n’Roll hell. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135

27-Jan Sound Scenes With a line that includes two dancers, vocal, percussion and one of the most talented Spanish guitarists you’ll ever see, they recreate the passion and desire of the downtown clubs you’d find in the Andalusian home of flamenco, Seville. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333

MUSIC 9-Jan Joan Armatrading For her last major tour Joan has decided this is the perfect time to perform her first ever full scale solo concerts. Her performances will include songs that span her entire career so far. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clactonon-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44

31-Jan The Blues Brothers Experience This live ten-piece band produces music that will thrill you, and a performance so much like Dan Ackroyd and John Belushi that you will long remember the evening you decided to immerse yourself in ‘The Blues Brothers Experience.’ Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505

11-Jan Black Dyke Band Their concerts cover a huge variety of music as befits an ensemble who have collaborated with Sir Paul McCartney, Peter Gabreil, Tori Amos, The Beautiful South, Elton John and The Beatles among many others. Queen’s

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 15 Nov-11Jan Writtle Art Group The Group allows each member to paint and develop in whatever art medium they choose and this is illustrated by the variety and range of work on display. Over 70 works will be displayed in a

range of mediums and styles. Chelmsford Museum, Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, CM2 9AQ. 01245 605700 16 Dec-10 Jan Butterfly Effect Essex based artists Tim Skinner and Em Milner have collaborated with a local SEN Primary School to produce an installation, bringing together a cacophony of colour, movement, light, touch, sound and play. Fistsite, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1JH. 01206 577 067 15 Jan-22 Feb Anthony Cleyndert Exhibition 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 24 Jan-22 Mar On Show ‘On show’ is an exhibtion of works by The Hive Artist Studios, a not for profit, shared studio space run by a dedicated group of established artists. Each Hive Artist has been selected for their talent, originality, the standard of their artwork and the desire to forward their artistic practice. Chelmsford Museum, Moulsham Street, Chelmsford, CM2 9AQ. 01245 605700 SPECIAL EVENTS 10-11 Jan Let it Snow ‘Let it Snow’ at Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park, with live interactive performances including ‘Frozen’ sing-a-longs, story telling, face painting and photo opportunities with the ‘Snow Sisters’ and ‘Snowman’. Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park, Marsh Farm Road, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5WP. 01245 321552 13-14 Jan Birds by Barge Join local RSPB staff and volunteers on board the 118-year old Thames Sailing Barge Victor for a first-class wildlife spectacle along the Stour Estuary. RSPB Stour Estuary Nature Reserve, Harwich Road, Wrabness, CO12 5ND . 01266 391153 19-Jan The Witch Craze in Essex 1560-1660 A fascinating topic and one that is the subject of this lecture by Christopher Thompson, local Essex historian. Lion Walk United Reformed Church, Colchester CO1 1LX. 01206 574573 eastlife.co.uk | 129

DISCOVER THE

COLNE VALLEY Q

uaint villages with colourful pastel cottages, timbered tearooms and an award-winning period country railway, the Colne Valley is like stepping into a time gone by

Described as “Constable country without the hordes of tourists and with better transport links,” by The Guardian, the Colne Valley is a stunning region tucked away in the glorious countryside of North Essex. Named after the River Colne which flows through the valley, the area is home to a number of historic houses built in the 17th and 18th century. The valley sits on the border of Essex and Suffolk and provides a scenic route through stunning countryside that runs from Colchester to Great Yeldham, making this quite possibly the most beautiful part of Essex. The Colne Valley Path, a 22.5 mile route, allows walkers to enjoy the delights of the Colne Valley from the rivers edge to high on the valley side that opens up long views of this wonderful valley. 130| eastlife.co.uk

The area is rich in history and attractive villages; Earls Colne, Chappel, Great Yeldham, Castle Hedingham, Great Tey, Coggeshall, Colne Engaine, and others - with plenty of interesting shops and restaurants. The magnificent viaduct at Chappel is 1066ft long, has 32 arches of 30ft span and its maximum height is 75ft. Incredibly, it is still in use with trains running from Marks Tey via Wakes Colne and Bures to Sudbury. It truly is a train journey to savour and one that needs protecting. Whether you’re thinking of visiting or moving to the area Eastlife headed to the valley to find out everything you need to know… Great Yeldham is a quiet, attractive village with a shop and a couple of pubs. At the junction of the A1017 and Yeldham’s main road stands what remains

of the Great Oak, a rich history, which spans centuries. The beautiful village of Castle Hedingham is almost like a model village complete with its own castle. Dominated by the magnificent Norman keep of Hedingham Castle, it is one of the finest and best preserved in England. There are four floors to explore, including a magnificent Banqueting Hall spanned by a remarkable 28ft arch, one of the largest Norman arches in England. A good view of this splendid room can be obtained from the Minstrels’ Gallery, built within the thickness of the 12ft walls. Look out for some great events here throughout the year. While children love the medieval re-enactments, grown-ups may prefer to visit the West Street Vineyard in nearby Coggleshall. At Castle Hedingham you’ll find The Colne Valley Railway.

AREA FOCUS

Here you can take a take a ride on an award-winning period country railway. It’s around one mile long with relocated station buildings, signal boxes and bridges all lovingly restored and rebuilt. Halstead is an attractive, traditional market town with a wealth of shops, restaurants and interesting walks. The town developed from prehistoric origins and a Roman settlement that included a villa complex. Wool and weaving provided the mainstay of business and the surviving Townsford Mill, which straddles the River Colne, was built in 1788. The mill is a picturesque reminder of the town’s industrial past and now holds one of the largest Antique Centres in the Essex/Suffolk area. Halstead has a wide variety of independent shops, and a small market, held on Fridays and Saturdays all set on a steep High Street. St Andrew’s Church in Colne Engaine has provided a prominent landmark for the Colne Valley for over 900 years, stand-

ing proud in this pretty hilltop village. Often referred to as Little Colne down the years, it had just 32 residents in 1066; today there are over 900. The village has two greens and some wonderful surrounding countryside and footpaths. Stop by the Five Bells for a drink or bite to eat. Earls Colne is an attractive village named after the Earls of Oxford and the river that flows through the valley. The village was inhabited prehistory and flint arrowheads have been found in the area, showing that Stone Age people lived in the valley long before anyone else. The village has its own Heritage Museum and many footpaths to enjoy the surrounding countryside including Chalkney Wood, 73 hectares of coppiced wood, worth visiting in spring for its wonderful display of bluebells. Within this ancient wood there are the remnants of a medieval woodbank and a Roman trackway.

Earls Colne has two excellent golf courses, local pub The Lion that has been given a modern twist, two good Indian restaurants and a small selection of shops and a recommended deli. Taking the road to Colchester from Earls Colne, you pass through the small village of White Colne with its pretty, sloped green and quaint terraced cottages. The river hugs the road again at Chappel where you’ll find the Valley’s defining feature, the stunning Victorian viaduct. Chappel’s Millennium Green is a wonderful space tucked underneath the Viaduct with a wildlife boardwalk. Chappel and Wakes Colne station is one of the area’s top attractions. The East Anglian Railway Museum has a comprehensive collection of period railway architecture, engineering and memorabilia in beautifully restored station buildings. There is also a delightful miniature railway, special steam days and other events. eastlife.co.uk | 131

The Woburn Hotel

Weddings at Woburn Three unique venues set in the heart of the historic Woburn Abbey Estate The Woburn Estate provides a stunning backdrop for weddings and offers three very different venues. From the splendour of The Sculpture Gallery at Woburn Abbey, or The Woburn Hotel for classic country weddings, to the fun and unusual Safari Lodge at Woburn Safari Park, weddings held on the Woburn Estate are truly unique. Weddings can be arranged for just 25 up to 250 guests and a dedicated wedding planner will ensure that every wedding is a day to remember.

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

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08/08/2014 15:24

BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS

What’s on in

Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE & SHOWS 13-Jan Mark Watson: Flaws He may not have all the answers to life’s most serious questions, but ‘Flaws’ is sure to both humour and touch every generation of comedy fan. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU . 01908 280800 13-Jan Circus of Horrors The story twists and turns with grisly murders and sensational shocks – all interwoven with some of the greatest and most bizarre circus acts on earth, sword swallowers, knife throwers, daredevil balancing acts, astounding aerialists & much more. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 14-Jan Dara O’Briain: Crowd Tickler Catch one of the most charismatic, intelligent, fast-talking and downright funny live performers working today. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 15-17 Jan Grease A production of everyones favourite musical. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 15-Jan Dara O Briain: Crowd Tickler Catch one of the most charismatic, intelligent, fast-talking and downright funny live performers working today. The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 17-Jan Abba Mania Featuring a special concert presentation, which celebrates the music of ABBA in a respectful and enjoyable way, reviving special memories of when ABBA ruled the airwaves. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652

EDITOR’S CHOICE

The Astor Big Band presents Songs That Won the War Watford Colosseum Sun 18 January, 7.30pm celebration of the moral boosting hits of World War II as performed by the star singers and big bands of the 1939 to 45 period, many of which have become the classics of today. Performed by a full 17 piece Astor Big Band and four fabulous singers, the performance features over 30 memorable songs including including; We’ll Meet Again, I’ll Be Seeing You, Moonlight Serenade, Well Did You Evah! April In Paris, Marie and Strike up the Band. Fifty percent of the Astor Big Band’s profit plus a collection at this performance will be donated to the Royal British Legion. Tickets priced £19.50 Tel: 0845 075 3993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

17-Jan Arthur’s Dream Boat This brand new show is brought to you by Long Nose Puppets, makers of ‘Shoe Baby’ and ‘Penguin’. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 19-24 Jan Full Monty Simon Beaufoy, the Oscar winning writer of the film, has gone all the way with this hilarious and heartfelt adaptation that’s getting standing ovations every night. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 21-24 Jan The Pirates of Penzance On the sandy shores of a Cornish

cove a gang of Pirates party and play. Apprentice Pirate, Frederic, stumbles across young maiden Mabel, and they fall head over heels in love. Fun and frivolity follows. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 22-Jan Treasure Island It’s a dark, stormy night. The stars are out. Jim, the inn-keeper’s granddaughter opens the door to a terrifying stranger. At the old sailor’s feet sits a huge sea-chest, full of secrets. Jim invites him in and her dangerous voyage begins. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 23-28 Jan The Imitation Game English mathematician and logician, Alan Turing, helps crack the Enigma code during World War II. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 25-Jan That’ll be the Day This hugely entertaining new production features a fresh line up of classic gold hits from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, plus more hilarious comedy. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 25-Jan Excerpts From: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ‘Excerpts from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ from On Pointe Dance Academy. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 29-31 Jan Bugsy Malone New York 1929: a war rages between two rival gangsters; Fat Sam and Dandy Dan. Dan is in possession of a new and deadly weapon, the dreaded splurge gun. As the custard pies fly, Bugsy Malone, an all-round nice guy, falls for Blousey Brown. The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 eastlife.co.uk | 133

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BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS 29-Jan Noel Fielding Expect a magical mix of Noel’s unique brand of stand up comedy, live animation, music and some of Fielding’s best known TV characters. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 29-Jan Obsessions and Compulsions David Adam, OCD sufferer and best-selling author of ‘The Man Who Couldn’t Stop’, talks to BBC Radio Four’s Inside Science presenter Dr Adam Rutherford about strange thoughts and weird behaviour. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 30-31 Jan Let’s Dance Hitchin’s longest established dance school perform a variety of traditional and contemporary ballet, tap, modern and jazz numbers. Queen Mother Theatre, Hitchin, SG4 9YA. 01462 455166 30-Jan The Rodgers & Hammerstein Songbooks The show features leading performers from the West End along with a live band of the highly talented musicians. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford,WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 31-Jan Stephen K. Amos Welcome to my World The maestro of feel-good comedy is back on tour with his new show. Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 MUSIC 9-Jan The Simon and Garfunkel Story Direct from London’s West End, a full cast of performers tell the compelling story of the greatest music duo of all time. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 9-Jan Signed, Sealed, Delivered Possibly the best soul revue of its kind in Europe. Backed by a powerhouse band that includes a mighty brass section, the cast of boy and girl singers truly do justice to the phenomenon that is soul. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 10-Jan Red Shoes ‘Red Shoes’ engage the audience with stories woven around chiming acoustic guitars, mes-

merising lead vocals and melodic harmonies. You will find yourself drawn into a world where their song writing skills are beautifully revealed. Live performances that are both passionate and inspiring, leaving the audience in no doubt that they are witnessing something very special. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 11-Jan Right Hand Drive Female-fronted 4-piece rocky covers act from Hertfordshire covering artists including Whitesnake, QOTSA, Rainbow, Republica, Speedway, Foo Fighters and more. Bedford Esquires, 60A Bromham Road, Bedford, MK40 2QG. 01234 340120 11-Jan Sally Barker Singer-songwriter Sally Barker is back, fresh from her flawless performances on BBC One’s The Voice. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU . 01908 280800 14-Jan The Classic Rock Show From the extraordinary opening sounds of Led Zeppelin’s Whole Lotta Love to Queen’s powerhouse anthem One Vision via AC/ DCs Back in Black and everything in between, this show will rock you to your core. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 20-Jan Philharmonia Orchestra: All - Russian Fireworks An evening of all-Russian fire and fantasy from Mussorgsky’s Night on the Bare Mountain to RimskyKorsakov’s tale of one thousand and one nights. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SJ. 01234 269519 23-Jan Royal Marines Band Concert A spectacular concert featuring classical, popular and military music. The Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 25-Jan T.Rextasy Truly a rock’n’roll concert for all ages. If you would like to know exactly what a Marc Bolan concert was like in the 1970s, this show is for you. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 27-Jan Sam Bailey She stole the hearts of a nation in the X-Factor and her debut album ‘The Power of Love’ is the triumphant soundtrack of a woman who dares to keep on dreaming.

Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford,WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 30-Jan The Chicago Blues Brothers Backed by the hottest 10 piece band around, the stars of the show not only entertain us with Jake and Elwood, but also classics from Aretha Franklin, James Brown and Cab Calloway. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1 Jan-29 Mar Mermaids, Roses, Camels & Cows: Wallpaper by Edward Bawden Spanning a 40-year period, ‘Mermaids, Roses, Camels & Cows’ is a celebration of the pattern-making genius of Edward Bawden. ‘Enchantingly personal and offbeat’, his wallpaper designs are still very much in demand today. The Higgins, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD. 01234 718618 5-22 Jan Royal Navy Photography See the very best of Royal Navy photography in this exhibition of images from the Peregrine Trophy 2014 competition. Letchworth Arts Centre, 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3EW. 01462 670788 5 Jan-7 Feb Member’s Exhibition In the first members show of the year, members exhibit a variety of painting, sculptures, ceramics and more. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 17 Jan-8 Feb Introducing The gallery is inviting entries from artists & makers who have never shown at Obsidian Art before. All 2D and 3D mediums. Obsidian Art, Old Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville, HP22 5XJ. 01296 612150 SPECIAL EVENTS 10-11 Jan Bride: The Wedding Show at Knebworth House Plan your perfect day at Hertfordshire’s premier bridal exhibition which will bring together over 80 of the region’s finest wedding suppliers under one roof. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX. 014388 66125 24-Jan Wedding Show A fantastic showcase of the very best local wedding products and services. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 eastlife.co.uk | 135

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136 | eastlife.co.uk Quarter.indd 1

15/10/2013 09:36

AREA FOCUS

A TRIP TO

ROYSTON

ositioned on the North Hertfordshire border Royston is a small market town that ticks all the boxes Royston has much to attract visitors including a range of popular shops and some stunning historical buildings. Located in the north of the district close to the Cambridgeshire border, Royston is a busy market town. Royston has grown up at the intersection of the Ickenield Way and the Roman Ermine Street, which was built almost 2,000 years ago. With a rail link to London and the city of Cambridge just 30 minutes away, Royston has become a desirable residential town. Attractions Among its historic buildings you’ll discover an unusual man-made cave with medieval carvings. A popular visitor attraction, the fascinating cave, which lies beneath the bustling town centre offers the opportunity to climb down to unearth an amazing cavern, intricately

carved with religious and pagan symbols. It was rediscovered after a workman stumbled on the opening in 1742 but its origin and purpose remains keenly disputed. Recent interest in the Knights Templar and the success of the Da Vinci Code book and film has made the cave even more popular. The cave is currently closed for the winter period but will reopen 4 April to 27 September weekend afternoons from 2.30pm to 5pm. The town’s museum features changing exhibitions and memorabilia relating to the town’s history and is home to the Royston Tapestry, which depicts scenes of interest from the town’s past. A small market selling locally sourced produce is held on Saturdays and Wednesdays between 8am and 2pm held at the Market Place.

If you’re looking to escape the cold this month, head to the Royston Picture Palace; a community asset run by volunteers from the town and surrounding villages. Set in a beautiful Victorian building, the Picture Palace shows a great range of films. This January you can enjoy a viewing of Mr Turner (12a), showing from 2nd to 3rd. When the weather warms up, Therfield Heath, a stunning open space on the edge of Royston is the last flourish of the Chiltern Hills and is a great place for a walk or to let the children run around. The annual Kite festival takes place on the heath in August. Food & drink Royston’s location in the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside means there’s no shortage of country pubs. For a traditional Sunday lunch or hearty pub grub, try The Pheasant in nearby Great Chishill, The Fox and Duck located on the village green of Therfield or the Woodman Inn which dates back to the 17th century and also offers cosy accommodation for the night. eastlife.co.uk | 137

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For further information please contact us: 01986 892728 info@all-hallows.org.uk : www.all-hallows.org.uk 138| eastlife.co.uk

SUFFOLK

What’s on in

Suffolk

THEATRE & SHOWS 3-Jan Theatre Tour The New Wolsey Theatre is opening its stage door to offer a brilliant and rare opportunity to go behind the scenes. The engaging and knowledgeable tour guides will lead you through the theatre to the dressing rooms, the green room, the lighting box, the trap doors, onto the stage and beyond. The New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900 6-Jan The Tinder Box The tale of a poor soldier back from the war, who dreams of marrying the princess with the help of an incompetent witch, three magical, saucer-eyed dogs and a little tinderbox is retold with Common Ground’s blend of joyful theatricality, song, dance and physical comedy. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 6-8 Jan Get on Up Based on the incredible life story of the ‘Godfather of Soul’, the film will give a fearless look inside the music, moves and moods of James Brown. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 8-Jan Canine Partners Malcolm and his four-legged friends from ‘Canine Partners’ come to the aid of hundreds of disabled people every year, restoring independence and dignity. The specially trained dogs can perform hundreds of actions from helping with the washing to assisting their owners to get up and dressed. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 9-Jan Mr Turner This study of Britain’s great landscape artist, J.M.W. Turner is Mike Lee’s first biopic since his 1999 scrutiny of Gilbert and Sullivan. The close relationship with his ailing father and the more complex ones involving the women in his life are beautifully realised along with Turner’s run-ins with the Royal

EDITOR’S CHOICE

classics as well as some recent film scores and a specially created new medley of tunes from the Great War, which featured in ‘Oh! What a Lovely War’. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Kings Street, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100 16-Jan Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music A screening of the Julie Andrews film musical in glorious, full-screen technicolor with a host of subtitles so that everyone can sing along and a free fun pack. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds , IP33 1QR. 01284 769505

Down to Earth - An Evening with Monty Don Fri 23 Jan, 7.30pm onty Don is a renowned gardening writer and BBC television presenter and the nation’s favourite and most respected gardener. Hear him speak about his life and travels visiting gardens all over the world, what really happens behind the scenes when filming, about how he made his own organic garden from a bare field and how understanding and working with nature enriches and empowers us all. Tickets £18 The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. Tel: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

Academy. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140

17-Jan Showstopper! The Improvised Musical A brand new musical comedy is created at every performance transforming audience suggestions into an all-singing, all-dancing production with unpredictable and hilarious results. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds , IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 22-31 Jan A Sign of the Times Frank is the Head of Installation at Forshaws, a commercial lettering factory and an aspiring novelist. Teenager Alan is his reluctant trainee more interested in his band ‘Lizard’ and his iPod than the complexities of bracketing systems and electrical isolators. However, this pair of Yorkshiremen have a lot more in common than they both think, and as their roles are reversed, they realise that they hold the key to each other’s salvation. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505

9-15 Jan Unbroken Academy award-winner Angelina Jolie directs and produces Unbroken, an epic drama that follows the incredible life of Olympian and war hero Louis Zamperini. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200

22-Jan Treasure Island It’s a dark, stormy night. The stars are out. Jim, the inn-keeper’s granddaughter opens the door to a terrifying stranger. At the old sailor’s feet sits a huge sea-chest, full of secrets. Jim invites him in and her dangerous voyage begins. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123

10-Jan Trianon at the Movies Enjoy a brilliant start to the New Year with a typical Trianon film programme featuring popular

24 Jan-2 Feb Jack and the Beanstalk As a New Year treat Jack, Simple eastlife.co.uk | 139

SUFFOLK Simon, Dame Trott and Daisy the Cow, along with a host of other crazy characters will all be waiting to take you on a roller coaster ride of mayhem and madcap merriment as they battle with the evil Giant. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 24-Jan Mike McClean Just Plain Funny If you’ve enjoyed Mike playing Buttons in Cinderella and fancy lots more laughs in January, then come see Mike at his very own stand-up show. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Kings Street, Ipswich IP1 1DH. 01473 433100 25-Jan Swan Lake At the palace, the royal family and their guests are gathered for Prince Siegfried’s birthday celebrations. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 29-Jan Andrea Chénier David McVicar directs a new production of Umberto Giordano’s passionate drama of liberty and love in the French Revolution. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 30-Jan Peter Pan With pirates, a fairy with attitude, a crocodile with even more and loads of song and dance from Never Never Land. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 MUSIC 10-Jan Philip Marino A night of Americana music with Philip Marino; an American expat singer and songwriter. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 10-Jan Elkie Brooks Live in Concert With numerous hit singles, million selling albums and awards, her annual tours are treat for fans old and new. Performing some of her classic hits, blues and jazz, an electric evening with Elkie is guaranteed to leave you begging for more. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 11-Jan One for Sargy with The Bobby Wellins All Star Quartet Coming back to perform in East Anglia at The Fisher for a one off evening; Sargy Mann: local supporter, resident and well respected gentlemen of the town. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130

15-Jan Gin City ‘Gin City’ is a good-time fivepiece blues/jazz band driven by boogie woogie piano, harmonica and guitar. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 17-Jan The Metropolitan Opera LIVE presents: The Merry Widow The great Renée Fleming stars as the beguiling femme fatale who captivates all Paris in Lehár’s enchanting operetta. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 17-Jan The Cabaret Pin Up Girls Step back into the ‘speakeasy’ of the roaring 20s, where the evening will come to life with live music, great company and a cheeky Charleston to bop along to. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 23-Jan Bury Unplugged BurySound presents ‘Unplugged’; a free event showcasing the best emerging musical talent from artists aged under 23 that West Suffolk has to offer. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 24-Jan Voodoo Room Paying tribute to both Hendrix & Cream, ‘Voodoo Room’ are a stunning high energy power trio featuring some of the UK’s finest musicians. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 26-Jan Lunchtime Concert – R.Welham & C.Johnson As a tribute to the great 20th C. British cellist and teacher, Jacqueline du Pré (b. 26 January 1945), Rebecca and Catherine will play impressive but rarely publicly performed duets by Bach and some of the best known 18th-20th C. cellist-teachers, Dotzauer, Popper and Klengel. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 28-Jan The Commodores ‘The Commodores’ bring their Motown sound and Greatest Hits to The Apex and will perform hits like Brick House, Easy, Nightshift, Three Times a Lady and more. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 30-Jan Roy Orbison and Friends Using original film footage from the era and backed by his fabulous five-piece band, Barry Steele will bring the life and character of Roy Orbison back to the centre stage, where it truly belongs as

he puts the rock back into The Big O, with his trademark dark rimmed glasses, soaring vocals and Orbison style. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 31-Jan The Royal Marines Training Band A performance featuring all the elements of a traditional Royal Marines Band concert including the Corps of Drums. The Royal Hospital School, Holbrook, Ipswich, IP9 2RX. 01473 326200 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1-5Jan Winter Prints & Etchings The selection includes works from Clare Curtis, Richard Kimmerling, Celia Hart and Joan Hodgkiss, amongst many others. The wintery setting of the Maltings is echoed in crisp, icy colours of Sue Eaton’s trees, as well as warm and vibrant works which reflect the spirit of the season. Snape Gallery, Snape Maltings Concert Hall, Snape, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110 1 Jan-15 Feb Satirest: Caricatures from the Reform Club Samuel William Fores was a printseller and publisher of satire and caricature who flourished from the late eighteenth through to the early nineteenth century, when revolt in France led to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. London was the centre of production of singly-issued satirical prints which were disseminated around the globe. Gainsborough’s House, 46 Gainsborough Street, Sudbury, CO10 2EU. 01787 372958 SPECIAL EVENTS 18-Jan Wedding Fair With around 60 exhibitors, whatever you’re looking for as part of your wedding is sure to be here. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 21-Jan The Barn Owl in Suffolk & South Norfolk There is no better sight than the ghostly shape of barn owls silently hunting our meadows at dawn. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 25-Jan Pie Making with The Farmers Wife Upstairs at the Market offers workshops, demonstrations and forages that are small in number, high in content, rich in quality and packed full of originality. Lavenham Village Hall, Church Street, CO10 9QT. 0770 462 7973

eastlife.co.uk | 141

AREA FOCUS

EXPLORE

Long Melford & Lavenham

ith their historic buildings, cosy pubs, galleries and boutiques, these two Suffolk towns are certainly worth a visit Just a short 15-minute drive apart both Long Melford and Lavenham offer history and beauty at every turn. The towns became wealthy during the height of the wool trade and today many of the fine buildings that were built during this time still remain. The buildings are now home to country pubs, art galleries, hotels and fashion boutiques making the towns a popular destination for shoppers. Eastlife took to the road to discover the towns’ hidden gems… Long Melford An ideal place to begin a stroll through the village is at the Holy Trinity Church, which like many in the area is a wool church from the 15th century, a product of prosperity among local cloth merchants of the time. Containing several noteworthy

memorials and brasses, also outside is the brick hospital founded in 1573 as an almhouse for twelve poor men and two poor women. A visit to Long melford wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Melford Hall. Run by the National Trust it is one of two Tudor mansions in close proximity. A large Elizabethan house, it is built of red brick around a quadrangle and ornamented with mitretopped turrets. Then there is Kentwell Hall a romantic, completely moated, redbrick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting. There are lots of events at the Hall, look out for the award-winning twodimensional maze, extraordinary sculpted tree and make sure you catch one of the renowned Tudor re-enactments.

Shopping is a favourite pastime in Long Melford. There are a great variety of places to buy quality goods of all sorts, including clothes, home furnishings, works of art and food to name a few, as well as the antiques for which the village is famous. Most shops offer one-off pieces you won’t find on the high street. One of the town’s highlights is the Woolpatch Gallery located on Hall Street. The store sells a range of quality wools and fabrics. It is the perfect place to stop by if you’re thinking of creating something individual and special be it a sweater or a patchwork quilt, or if you wish to learn how to knit or sew. The expert team will be on hand to help you achieve your goal. Art lovers should head to the Lime Gallery, also located on Hall Street. Here you’ll discover contemporary fine art and glass and regular exhibitions throughout the year. Besides this there are many more charming restaurants and eastlife.co.uk | 143

AREA FOCUS

typical Suffolk inns to be found such as The Black Lion and Long Melford Swan, while an indoor farmers’ market is held at the Village Memorial Hall on the third Saturday of every month. Lavenham Offering a wealth of historical interest, delightful shops, galleries and a wide choice of places to eat and drink, Lavenham is the ideal choice for a relaxing day out in the country. A visit to Merchants Row, located where Church Street meets Water Street, visitors can marvel at the architecture and soak up the history; there is nowhere better to relish the oak structures, traditional construction techniques, mullion windows and quirky features. These beautiful buildings are home to a collection of small independent boutiques, shops, a delightful tearoom and restaurant. Take time to enjoy these lovely treasure troves and all they have to offer. Most of the shops have ground floor and first floor showrooms making them collectively the largest retail space in the village. You’ll find a number of galleries in the town including The Wildlife Art Gallery and Angel Gallery as well as a range of delightful stores such as The Cuckoo Flower, a lovely gift and home interiors shop full of unusual and appealing products, and Elizabeth Gash, which specialises in beautiful knitwear and other garments. For an overnight stay or indulgent meal, head to Lavenham’s renowned Swan Hotel. With its picture perfect exterior, luxurious surroundings, oak beamed interiors, open fires and cosy nooks the hotel brings together a deep sense of history and occasion with the very best in contemporary styling. Big changes are taking place at The Swan this year with the launch of its exclusive Weavers’ House Spa in February. Changes are also taking place at The Angel located on the Market Place. The pub formerly run by the chef-entrepreneur Marco Pierre White has been taken over by Cozy Pubs, who already have three successful pubs in Essex. The pub has undergone the Cozy Pub treatment and has been refurbished to reveal a country pub with a modern twist. The establishment will be serving a range of delicious food, quality drinks and a high standard of accommodation. With so much on offer a trip to this beautiful town is a must this season.

144 | eastlife.co.uk

Long Melford Hall

The Swan, Lavenham

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eastlife.co.uk | 145

SOCIAL SCENE

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SOCIAL SCENE

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’ve captured some beautiful images on our trave ls throughout the region.. We’d love to see your seasonal shots too. Share them with us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/eastlifemag

“TWEET TWEET” A Selection of our favourite tweets from the last month: @CUB_UK Dec We now have the most popular post on @eastmagazines Go check it out @WaveneyRiver Dec Thanks @Eastmagazines for the mention on page 49 & 50 of your December issue

ffron Walden from

Another stunning pic of Sa Scott Hughes

Photogra phe shared th r Ian Hul is fab pic

Thank you to all those that entered our ‘Christmas Competition’ - it was our most successful to date with over 2,000 entries! Keep a look out for more #fab #prizes in 2015.

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

146 | eastlife.co.uk

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