Eastlife November 2015

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November 2015

NOVEMBER 2015

Living life in the East

Make the most of where you live

Come And See

SLEEPING BEAUTY At The Gordon Craig Theatre Stevenage

Seasonal Special -Christmas Lights Festive Markets -Ice rinks -Pantomimes And lots more...

Issue 126

IT S THE PANTO ISSUE... OH NO IT ISN T... OH YES IT IS PLUS: Christmas town focus - shopping, markets and events in the region's historic market towns & cities

The New Generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class Representative example A 180 SE with manual transmission

36 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement) On-the-road price Customer deposit Retailer deposit contribution Optional purchase payment† Total amount of credit Total amount payable†† Purchase activation fee† Representative APR Fixed interest rate

£279.00 £21,065.00 £2,999.00 £0.00 £10,725.00 £18,066.00 £23,778.00 £10.00 6.4% 6.16%

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

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 769 676 www.mercedes-benzofburystedmunds.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401 100 www.mercedes-benzofcambridge.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777 307 www.mercedes-benzofkingslynn.co.uk

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the A-Class range: urban 30.7(9.2)-

Official EU regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Whilst this offer is at £21,635.00 on-the-road including optional metallic paint at £570.00. *Finance offer based on a new A 180 SE on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement, on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess credit approvals on selected A-Class models between 1 October and 31 December 2015, registered by 31 January 2016. ^Free servicing based on 3 services over 36 months or 30,000 miles on contact your retailer for availability. Terms and conditions apply. Credit approval subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA.

East Life DPS Aclass Ad.indd 1

Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751 000 www.mercedes-benzofnorwich.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294 900 www.mercedes-benzofpeterborough.co.uk

72.4(3.9), extra urban 50.4(5.8)-88.3(3.2), combined 40.9(6.9)-80.7(3.7). CO2 emissions 171-89 g/km.

only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance on behalf of other finance companies as well. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz A 180 SE with manual transmission mileage charges may apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and retailer deposit contribution. Orders/ A-Class models. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/ options may not be available. Please

12/10/2015 11:33

The SUV Season. Make the best of every terrain.

Join Robinsons Mercedes-Benz on 7 – 8 November to get behind the wheel of many of our striking new SUV models.

As the stunning all-new GLC arrives in our showrooms across the East, be one of the first to view the youngest member of the SUV family.

What’s more, you’ll have the opportunity to take advantage of our event only offer of three years’ free servicing^ on all SUVs purchased and be entered into our exclusive competition.

Places at this event are extremely limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure your place, contact your nearest Robinsons Mercedes-Benz retailer today.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 769676 Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751000 Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401100

Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900

Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307

www.robinsons.mercedes-benz.co.uk

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the Mercedes-Benz range: urban 15.2 (18.6) - 72.4 (3.9), extra urban 23 (11.8) - 88.3 (3.2), combined 20.5 (13.8) - 134.5 (2.1). CO2 emissions 322 - 48 g/km. Official

EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Models featured for illustration purposes. ^3 years’ free servicing is based on 3 services over 36 months on new GLA, GLC, GLE, GLE Coupe, GL and G-Class models. Excludes Mercedes-AMG models.

Ordered placed between 2- 8 November 2015 and registered by 31 December 2015. Servicing provided by a Mercedes-Benz Service Care Plan. No cash alternative. Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd. is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 2448457 and has its registered office address at Tongwell, Milton Keynes, MK15 8BA.

East Life SUV Ad.indd 1

12/10/2015 11:50

WELCOME TO EASTLIFE Dear Reader, As I write this, I keep stopping to look at the beautiful autumnal trees outside my office window. If, like me, you love the colours of this wonderful season and the cool, crisp air has left you with that longing feeling for hearty food, a glass of red and the anticipation of Christmas, then you will simply love this issue.

Publisher Sean Thompson

01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com

The last four weeks have been awash of Christmas gifts and pantos for the Eastlife team. We’ve been busy searching the region for the very best of the festive season. From pantomimes to gift guides and Christmas markets to ice rinks, we have it covered.

Editor Emma Kemsley

01954 267904 emma@eastmag.com Production Manager Craig Lewis

01954 268142 craig@eastmag.com Digital Media Manager Ben Attenborough

01954 777070 ben@eastmag.com Social Media Manager Nicole Ranaweera 07921 235539 nicole@eastmag.com Sales Manager (South Norfolk, Suffolk & Essex)

We don’t stop there, we’ve also listed dates for Christmas light switch-ons, dining, party venues and décor. As always we will be adding even more events to our new and improved website throughout the forth coming weeks so keep a look out at www.eastlife.co.uk

Emma Kemsley

Darren Marshall 07826 628680 darren@eastmag.com

OUR APP IS PACKED WITH ADDITIONAL CONTENT

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

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.

ACCOUNTS/ENQUIRIES

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eastlife.co.uk | 5

A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS Sat 28 – Sun 29 November & Sat 5 – Sun 6 December 10am – 4pm Step back in time to the 1800s and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian Christmas.

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

E330 Audley Victorian Xmas 240x168mm Portrait ADVERT.indd 1

14/10/2015 16:53

CONTENTS NOVEMBER FEATURES

NEWS 9

AROUND THE REGION - news & events

LIFESTYLE 19

FLICK THE SWITCH - xmas lights

36

PARTY PARTY - the best venues

45

GIFT GUIDES - ideas for the whole family

LITTLE EAST 58

FESTIVE FUN - events for kids

FOOD & DRINK

25

PANTOMIME PICK OF THE PANTOS

65

APPETISER - news & events

68

XMAS DAY DINING - enjoy a festive feast

FASHION 73

BEAUTY - party season essentials

WEDDINGS 75

VENUES - cosy winter weddings

MOTORING 79

REVIEW - the Kia Cee’d undergoes a facelift

HOME & GARDEN

31

CHRISTMAS MARKETS

87

INTERIORS - xmas decor trends

93

GARDEN - winter blooms

ARTS 95

ARTS COLUMN - Collette Hoefkins

97

ARTS NEWS - gallery updates

HEALTH

-

99

UNDER PRESSURE

101

NATURAL HEALTH - stay healthy this xmas

how to de-stress

AREA FOCUS

41

GET YOUR SKATES ON FESTIVE ICE RINKS

103

NORFOLK - events and xmas in Norwich

111

CAMBS - Christmas in the county

117

ESSEX - Chelmsford & Saffron Walden

131

BEDS, BUCKS, HERTS - xmas in market

towns Olney, Hitchin & Ampthill

147

SUFFOLK - events, Bury St Edmunds &

Woodbridge 162

SOCIAL SCENE - your comments eastlife.co.uk | 7

save

£10 on entry

when booking online use code

AURORA10

Visit Santa and baby Reindeer Aurora Visit Santa in his NEW Grotto this Christmas and meet his NEW little helper, our baby Reindeer Aurora!

Starting every weekend from the 28th November and everyday once the schools break up.

*Terms & Conditions: Use code AURORA10 and save £10 on entry when booking online. Minimum spend of £40 required. Only valid for online purchases.

Code not valid at the gate. Valid until 01.01.2016. No cash value. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

AROUND THE REGION

Around the Region Latest News from

Nigrum Luminaries Woburnensis

Woburn Abbey Gardens is to host a spectacular evening of light, fire and ice on Saturday 28 November, from 5pm to 10pm.

The beautiful estate is asking visitors to wrap up warm. bring a torch and experience Woburn Abbey Gardens in a completely new light - Luminaries Woburnensis.

Be entertained by award-winning ice sculptures, see the Chinese Dairy, Rockery and Hornbeam maze aglow, watch animated fire sculptures and explore the black light trail and other art installations for one night only.

Highlights this year include an adventure black light trail and artwork, Glacial Art, commissioned especially for the evening by Her Grace the Duchess of Bedford, will be creating futuristic ice sculptures and an interactive ice wall, where you can have a go at ice carving yourself.

There will be opportunities to launch a lotus flower lantern, decorate your own hanging lantern and hang your message on the shimmering Tree of Dreams.

Throughout the evening fire performances and live music will keep crowds entertained and there will also be over 30 boutique stall to browse.

Adult £10.50 / Seniors £9.00 / Child (3-15 years) £4.50 Pre-booking is advised. www.woburnabbey.co.uk/events Winter Wonderland CRAFT FAIR

The Suffolk Punch Trust will be hosting its Winter Wonderland Craft Fair, 5-6 December.

The perfect opportunity to escape the madding Christmas crowds, visit the peaceful surroundings, enjoy the fresh air and indulge in a little Christmas shopping.

Browse local crafts and festive food and let the kids finish with a ride on the tinsel tractor.

Alternatively, the Trust will be holding Christmas Wreath Making workshops on 4 and 11 December. Each class is £50, includes lunch and you’ll be able to take home your finished product. Booking is essential. www.suffolkpunchtrust.org

eastlife.co.uk | 9

AROUND THE REGION

Sandringham Christmas Craft Food and Gift Fair

Beauty and the Beast, a children’s pantomime is just one of the new attractions at this popular Christmas Fair, taking place 20-22 November.

Returning to Sandringham after their popular appearances at the Country Fair are chefs Aidy and Andy from the Crabstock Festival who will be putting their fishing flavour into their Christmas preparations. The event combines crafts, food and gifts with thousands of Christmas present ideas and a little show time fun with the special Christmas attractions.

Craft demonstrations are a popular highlight of the show while food and drink play a major part in the Christmas celebrations. Browse, taste and take home a wide range of food from both national and regional food producers.

One of the new show attractions this year is a children’s pantomime, Beauty & the Beast. This heart warming and highly entertaining show is twice daily on Saturday & Sunday. The show is open from 10am – 6pm daily.

Admission £6.50 adults, £6 over 65’s & £2 children. www.livingheritagecraftshow.com The White Horse in Brancaster Staithe listed in Good Hotel Guide 2016

The White Horse in Brancaster Staithe, North Norfolk has been named Editor’s Choice Seaside Hotel for the second year running in the Good Hotel Guide 2016.

The Good Hotel Guide is renowned as being the leading independent guide to hotels in Great Britain and Ireland, entry into the guide is based on visits by ‘anonymous’ inspectors and guests experiences. The White Horse is a family run establishment and part of the ACInns group (www.acinns.co.uk) which has five other hospitality establishments in the eastern region.

Dazzling ice dance from renowned Russian Ice Stars

Taking audiences back to the dawn of time and the creation of the world, the Russian Ice Stars are all set to thrill when Cirque de Glace arrives at Norwich Theatre Royal from 19-23 January. The show combines ice and fire with music, colour, incredible costumes, jaw-dropping acrobatics and awesome skating talent, presenting dazzling ice dance from the internationally renowned professional Russian Ice Stars infused with the world of Cirque, made famous by Cirque du Soleil.

Tickets £8-£32.50. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 11

A Musical Tribute to the Battle of Britain as we honour those brave and courageous heroes of the day and celebrate their legacy with the men and women of today’s Royal Air Force who ‘Secure our Skies’

25 November - Cliffs Pavilion, Southend* southendtheatres.org.uk 01702 351 135

4 December - Ipswich Regent** ipswichregent.com 01473 433 100

6 December - Theatre Royal, Norwich* theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 01603 630 000

Featuring: The Bands of the Royal Air Force Conductor: Compère: Vocalists:

Wing Commander Duncan Stubbs Alan Dedicoat* or Lynn Bowles** Emer McParland and Squadron Leader Matthew Little

THE

For more information please go to: rafinconcert.com

SWISS GARDEN IN LIGHTS

SAT 5 - THU 10 DECEMBER 2015

SANTA’S CHRISTMAS FLY IN SATURDAY 5 DECEMBER 2015

© Richard Kenworthy

Experience the amazing Swiss Garden lit up as never before.

Discover the magic of colour, light and interactive installations within the beautiful surroundings of our gardens.

Santa is flying into Shuttleworth at 11.00am, come and watch him arrive!* To visit Santa in the Swiss Cottage please book your place. For further information call 01767 627924 or visit:

www.shuttleworth.org/gardeninlights

www.shuttleworth.org/santa-fly-in *Fly-in is weather dependant

®

Registered Charity No. 307534

12 | Download Our App Today!

Your health - or that of your unborn child, is invaluable, so why wait to get the results you need?

We offer a swift and responsive ultrasound service, run by fully qualified sonographers.

We use the latest, state of the art equipment, capable of ‘4D’ imaging.

AVAILABLE SERVICES INCLUDE: • Early Pregnancy Scan • Down’s Syndrome Screening (Harmony Test, First Trimester combined screening and QUAD) • Anomaly Scan • 2D/3D/4D Growth, Gender, Presentation Scans

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CALL OR GO ONLINE TO BOOK YOUR SCAN Landline: 01223 360 707 / Mobile 07502 431 214 Email: info@eastangliaultrasound.co.uk | www.eastangliaultrasound.co.uk 25-27 High Street, Chesterton, Cambridge, CB4 1NQ

RE G RE YO IST ST U R E R TO D A Y TE IN

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ELM TREE COURT High Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3HR 1 & 2 bedroom age exclusive apartments Launching December 2015 Exclusively designed for the over 60s, Elm Tree Court will offer high quality retirement apartments in a convenient location.

Additional benefits include:

Roof top terrace Private car parking Homeowners’ lounge

Secure camera entry system Close proximity to the high street Balconies to select apartments

Call 0800 8821 495 to register your interest mccarthyandstone.co.uk/elmtreecourt LP-MI-ELM-RL-3177-ZZ

AROUND THE REGION

OPEN will be the official home of Norwich Fashion Week 2016

OPEN will be the new, official home for Norwich Fashion Week 2016, as the multipurpose venue, run by OPEN Youth Trust Charity, has confirmed its partnership support for the city’s largest annual fashion event.

Norwich Fashion Week (NFW) was originally launched in 2010 and is designed to celebrate, promote and develop the diversity of fashion and style in the city.

The 2016 event will take place between 10 and 17 March. www.norwichfashion.co.uk Down the rabbit hole!

To celebrate the 150th birthday of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company has turned Carroll’s flight of imagination into a Christmas Spectacular featuring a cast of over 100 young performers and a host of stage magic and illusions - all in a major new musical production at Snape Maltings Concert Hall in Suffolk from 4-13 December.

Alice, The Mad Hatter, The Queen of Hearts, The White Rabbit and Cheshire Cat all appear in this new song and dance epic with soaring musical numbers and a generous sprinkling of eye-popping special effects.

Who would have thought that a dance performance ‘May Contain Food’?

From Thursday 19 – Saturday 21 November, award-winning Protein returns to DanceEast at the Jerwood DanceHouse with its most playful collaboration to date as four vocalists and four dancers all sing for their supper in a dining setting that may contain food.

May Contain Food at DanceEast

Murston Bapchild’s 1950’s Radio Show

Be part of the live studio audience for a 1950s style American Radio Show performed by Murston Bapchild and The Braxton Hicks on 1 November at 8pm at The Fisher Theatre, Bungay.

The event is a 1950s style American Radio Show, where the theatre audience become part of the audience for the ‘live’ broadcast, but set in a small town in America, in the 1950s. Guest performers are a local trio, The Delta Beltas. Tickets: £10

May Contain Food is a witty piece of dance and music theatre, curated by choreographer Luca Silvestrini and renowned composer Orlando Gough, and is inspired by social occasions and life at mealtimes. The performers will invite you to sit at a table, offer a tasting menu and then serve you a show that explores our relationship with food: the pop of a cherry tomato, or the way we just can’t help devouring another person’s leftovers.

All sound is performed a cappella as movement is composed and music is choreographed, creating a unique, visceral experience of indulgence, nostalgia and mischief.

These immersive and intimate previews will be performed at the DanceHouse for three nights and really shouldn’t be missed!

Tel: 01473 295230 | www.danceeast.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 15

Order today FOR

Christmas

DELIVERY

FURNITURE | SOFAS | BEDS | SOFT FURNISHINGS | LINENS | CARPETS | GIFTS | COOKSHOP | LIGHTING | RESTAURANT | FREE PARKING

Bury St. Edmunds | Ipswich | Online

GW0512 East Life Magazine Nov issue.indd 1

20/10/2015 10:50

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

Featuring: Gifts from Santa Claus Nursery Railway Train Ride Gallopers Rides Sweet Shop Dads Army at Christmas Childrens Entertainment 29th Nov | Dec 5th & 6th,12th & 13th,19th,20th,22nd,23rd & 24th

Check bressingham.co.uk for entry times

Search Bressingham Steam

Book online at bressingham.co.uk or call 01379 686900

LIFESTYLE

SWITCH IT ON!

This month sees our favourite towns have an instant festive makeover as the Christmas lights twinkle into action

There’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by enjoying the sparkle and hype of the Christmas lights. To ensure you don’t miss out, read our dates for festive fun…

Beds, Bucks & Herts

St Albans, 15 November The Christmas light switch-on will see an afternoon and early evening spectacular of pantomime stars, street entertainers and fun for all the family. The city centre will be alive with music and entertainment, warm up with a mulled wine and festive food, browse the gift stalls and let the kids let their hair down at the fun fair.

Bedford, 26 November Enjoy a Christmas light switch-on with all the trimmings including a spectacular firework display, Bedford’s very first Christmas Emporium which kickstarts the launch of late night shopping, Santa and his reindeer, bands, choristers and live entertainment.

Completing the merriments is the ice rink at Bedford Swan Hotel, which will open on 26 November.

Milton Keynes, 22 November This year Christmas begins at intu Milton Keynes as it hosts a day of festive fun in the lead up to the Christmas light switch-on at 5pm. There will be children’s activities from Gulliver’s Theme Park, a Christmas parade, music and much more. After the switch-on you can pick up a goody bag that includes a free pass to Gulliver’s Land and its Splashzone.

Hertford, 28 November As part of the Hertford Christmas Gala the lights will be switched on at 6.30pm. The evening includes plenty of festive family fun including a festive food market, fun fair, carols and Santa’s grotto at Hertford Museum and Mudlarks Garden Café. Read more Herts & Beds Christmas light switch-on from page 135.

Cambs

Cambridge, 15 November The fun begins at the Market Square at midday, where an afternoon of fun, live music and entertainment will create a festive atmosphere for the switch-on by X-factor stars PYT at 5pm.

Peterborough, 14 November Once again crowds are expected to pack the Cathedral Square as the city is turned into a winter wonderland at 5pm. Live entertainment will add to the atmosphere.

St Neots, 29 November The hugely successful event returns with another spectacular selection of performances and entertainment in the Market Square. Midday to 6pm, with the switch-on at 5pm.

Ely, 27 November Now in its 11th year, the Ely Christmas light switch-on is one of the city’s biggest events of the year packed with live entertainment, stalls and festive food and drink. Lights will be turned on at 4pm.

eastlife.co.uk | 19

CATEGORY

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LIFESTYLE

Essex

Suffolk

Colchester, 29 November Thousands are expected to enjoy the switching-on of Colchester’s Christmas lights following a day of family entertainment.

Bury St Edmunds, 19 November Ahead of the infamous Christmas Fayre, the lights will be switched on 19 November with an afternoon of festive activities from 2pm to 8.30pm.

Brentwood, 28 November Soak up the festive atmosphere as the town’s high street turns into a winter wonderland of live entertainment, food and drink from midday to 6pm.

Felixstowe, 28 November Hamilton Road and The Canopy will be filled with lots of festive food and craft stalls, carol singing and live entertainment throughout the afternoon. A candlelight parade starts at 4.40pm, which leads up to the Christmas light switch-on at 5pm.

Saffron Walden, 29 November Combined with a Christmas Fayre in the heart of the town, the festive fun starts at 10am with live entertainment until 5pm. The lights will be switched on at 4.15pm.

Southend-on-Sea, 14 November Wrap up warm and enjoy the festive fun in the town centre and watch lights dazzle into action.

Norfolk

Norwich, 19 November The city will be getting into the festive spirit all day in the lead up to the switch-on which will begin with a candlelit procession with Father Christmas and friends turning on the lights. For more details visit page 107.

Burnham Market, 21 November Carol singers, mulled wine and a visit from Santa, the town’s light switch-on will include everything great about Christmas from 4pm to 6pm.

Holt, 25 November Holt is beautiful at any time of year, but when the gables, gutters and roofs of the historic buildings throughout the town are draped in twinkling fairy lights it really does look spectacular. Entertainment and festive fun will accompany the switch-on.

Beccles, 27 November For the past 10 years, the Beccles Christmas light switch-on has not disappointed. This year expect the same lively atmosphere filled with festive cheer and treats, plus two real reindeers. The lights will be turned on at 6pm.

Ipswich, 19 November Taking place at the Cornhill, Ipswich will begin its Christmas celebrations with the switch-on between 5pm and 7pm.

Aldeburgh Christmas Lights Switch On, 12 December Enjoy an evening of festivities for Aldeburgh Christmas lights switch-on. The evening will be sure to get you into the festive spirit with shops staying open late, mulled wine, live music, mince pies and so much more!

The event ends with fireworks on the beach. It’s one of the most popular switch-ons in the county.

Southwold Christmas Lights Switch On, 28 November Southwold lights switch-on is always a lovely evening for all the family with Father Christmas switching on the lights and plenty of festive entertainment.

eastlife.co.uk | 21

107x71 LINCOLN_Layout 1 08/10/2015 16:56 Page 1

Open 10-5 every day

Hitchin

Located near St Albans, just off J21a of the M25

ChristmasTree

Phone: 01727 869203

e: info@butterflyworldproject.com

Lights Switch On

w: www.butterflyworldproject.com

Friday 20th November On Stage 5.00pm Choir on Fire 5.30pm Hitchin Allstars 6.00pm Covenant Praise Gospel 6.30pm Lights Switch On & evening entertainment with Alex Bay Festive food with • Over 600 tropical butterflies Hitchin Street Food Monthly

Leafcutter Ant Exhibition • Insect Study Centre with regular handling sessions • Natural Play Area •

18 Designer Gardens

• Cafeteria, Gift Shop & Plant Sales • Children’s Holiday Activity Programme • Brand New Music Meadow Check Out our October Lecture Series at www.butterflyworldproject.com Don’t Miss Our Firework Display November 8th 2015 www.hitchinherts.com

22 | Download Our App Today!

Stevenage Leisure Limited in association with Jordan Productions present

Starring

Wendi Peters (Coronation Street’s Cilla) as Carabosse

Stevenage’s favourite Dame

Paul Laidlaw

as Nellie Night Nurse

Back by popular demand

Aidan O’Neill as Chester the Jester

Daniella Piper as Belle

David O’Mahony as Prince Valliant

Written and Directed by Chris Jordan Musical Direction by James Cleeve

27 November 2015-24 January 2016

Box Office: 01438 363200 The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ www.gordon-craig.co.uk

LIFESTYLE

PICK OF THE PANTOS It wouldn’t be Christmas without a pantomime. Oh no it wouldn’t…

We’ve rounded-up the biggest and brightest pantomimes coming to the region this Christmas – take your pick of celebrities, slap stick comedy and childish fun

The Adventures of Robin Hood at King’s Lynn Corn Exchange

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange’s magical pantomime extravaganza this year is The Adventures of Robin Hood. Catch Robin and his Merry Men in action from 10 December to 3 January.

This brand new adventure has all the ingredients for a classic pantomime, with stunning costumes, live music and the usual comedy mayhem.

Robin Hood stars Shaun Williamson, best known for his role as ‘Barry’ in EastEnders, who will play the Sheriff of Nottingham.

Will Scarlett will be played by CBeebies’ Robert The Robot Steven Kynman and returning by popular demand is King’s Lynn’s favourite Dame, the hilarious Ian Marr who this year will be playing Dame Double Top! Tickets: £13 - £19.

Tel: 01553 764864 | www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 25

Snow White at Norwich Theatre Royal

This year the theatre will be asking who is the fairest of them all with its take on Snow White from 15 December to 17 January. Ex-Brookside beauty Jennifer Ellison stars as Queen Evilynne, while West End star Bruce Graham takes on the role of Igor the Henchman.

You can expect all the usual traditional ingredients for a fabulous family pantomime - the Dame, songsheets, comedy routines, spectacular sets and special effects, beautiful costumes, unexpected surprises and, of course, lots of opportunities for you to hiss and boo!

Tickets: £7 - £19.50.

Tel: 01603 630000 | www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk The Sword and the Stone at The New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

To start its 15th year celebrations, the theatre will be showing a brand new rock and roll pantomime from 26 November to 30 January.

The panto takes on the legendary tale of King Arthur, mixes music and magic, swordplay and slapstick into a wicked festive brew with a classic rock n roll kick. It’s guaranteed to have you singing in the aisles!

Tel: 01473 295900 | www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

26| Download Our App Today!

Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds

This year the theatre will be hosting the pantomime classic from 27 November to 10 January. The story of Jack, a handful of beans, a cow and a giant will be full of magic, music and fun. Get ready for some Fe-Fi-Fo-FUN! Tickets: £8.50 - £26.50 Tel: 01284 769505 | www.theatreroyal.org Aladdin at Mercury Theatre, Colchester

Hop on your magic carpet and join in the adventure of a lifetime this Christmas as the theatre’s panto favourites Ignatius Anthony, Laura Curnick, Tim Freeman, Sarah Moss, Simon Pontin and Dale Superville return for another year of fun and frocks! This year’s panto is the magical Aladdin. Get ready to boo Abanazer and cheer for Widow Twanky. This year the pantomime will have an extra week of performances running from 28 November to 10 January.

Tickets: £10 - £26.50 Tel: 01206 573948 | www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Aladdin at the Princes Theatre, Clacton

Aladdin is in demand in Essex this Christmas! It’s also the pantomime of choice for the Princes Theatre from 12 December to 3 January. There will be dazzling costumes, spellbinding special effects and lots of audience participation that will keep the whole family entertained and amused. Scott Robinson from 90s boy band Five, will also star.

Tickets: £14.20 -£15.20 www.essex-live.co.uk/clacton/princes-theatre

LIFESTYLE

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz at The Cresset, Peterborough

Sleeping Beauty at The Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage

Expect to see some familiar faces take to the stage as you follow the yellow brick to the magical city of Oz and join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion in their adventures.

Set to be one of the longest running pantos in the UK, the theatre will host the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty from 27 November to 24 January.

Steven Arnold, famed for his role as Ashley Peacock in Coronation Street will be playing the Scarecrow. This pantomime is family fun at its best and will be available on selected dates from 12 to 30 December.

Tickets: from £12 Tel: 01733 265705 | www.cresset.co.uk Cinderella at Cambridge Arts Theatre

The creative team behind last year’s Aladdin, return with a fresh new production of the classic rag-to-riches fairy tale. Featuring the Arts Theatre’s trademark blend of songs, laughter, joy and magic this is a festive night out for all the family to enjoy.

Buttons is in love, the Ugly Sisters are fighting over a husband and poor Cinderella is dreaming of a better life. But wishes only exist in fairy tales…don’t they?

With a wave of a magic wand, Cinderella is whisked away into a world of charming Princes, glittering ball gowns and dream weddings. Your glass carriage awaits from 3 December to 17 January.

Tickets: £13.50 - £21 Tel: 01223 503333 | www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

Wendi Peters, known for her role as Cilla Battersby in Coronation Street has been cast for the part of baddie Carabosse. Sleeping Beauty is a traditional family pantomime where a princess is searching for happiness, Evil Carabosse is searching for revenge, Chester the Jester is searching for someone to laugh at his jokes and Dame Nellie Night Nurse is searching for a man in the front two rows! Tickets: £13.50 - £23 Tel: 01438 363 200 | www.gordon-craig.co.uk Cinderella at The Grove Theatre, Dunstable

Will Cinderella meet the man of her dreams? Will Prince Charming win our heroine’s heart? And will the Ugly Sisters stop Cinders from going to the ball? All will be revealed in the Christmas pantomime from 11 December to 3 January.

Blue’s Antony Costa stars as Prince Charming. Antony will be joined on stage by CBBC presenter, YouTube sensation and comedian Mawaan Rizwan, who will be playing Buttons. With a fabulous five piece band, stunning sets and costumes, and all the laughs and traditions that panto entails, you won’t want to miss out!

Tickets: £16 - £24.50 Tel: 01582 60 20 80 | www.grovetheatre.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 27

Hal Cruttenden On Tour Sat 14th Nov 8.00pm Tickets: £17 Hal takes to the stage for a night of comedy!

Waterloo – The Best of ABBA Tribute Show Fri 27th Nov 8.00pm Tickets: £18, £17 concs, £16 grps 10+ Live music and all the hits!

Call the Box Office for further information or download our film and entertainment brochure.

WYLLYOTTS BOX OFFICE 01707 645005 Wyllyotts Theatre, Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, HERTS EN6 2HN

www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

New International Encounter in association with The Stables PANTOMIME

“an exceptionally witty adventure” The Guardian ****

A Traditional Family Pantomime written by Chris Hannon, directed by Karen Simpson

Friday 27 November 2015 – Sunday 10 January 2016 Box Office 01284 769505 Online at www.theatreroyal.org #BeanstalkBSE

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Tickets £11- £20

Box Office: 01908 280800 www.stables.org

AUGUST Fri 19 June

When You’re Smiling – Sat 11 July 2.00pm Fri 7th of Rock –Dancing The Queen the Concert The CarpentersChampions Story Sat 11 July Fri 19th The Fri 19 June Supreme Queen ConcertCarpenters Story – Dancing Queen the Concert The Carpenters Story 7.30pm Show That’s Rocking the Fri 21 Aug Sat 29 Aug 20th Dance House Presents NationSat – 7.30pm Soul Legends Bublè Fever – Catch A Rising Star – Sun 9th You Are Invited to 2.30pm Marty & 7.30pm MacDonald’s Farm – Sat 27th The World’s Most Popular Pongo’s Party – 2.00pm Musicals with The – Starring the voices of Westenders – 7.30pm Cbeebies Justin Fletcher and Nicole Davis Sun 9 Aug Mon 27 July JULY Jethro Pongo’s Party Thurs 13th LDN Wrestling Summer Sat 11th – Friday Dancing Queen The Mon 27 July Sun 9 Aug 6th November - 7.30pm Showdown - 7.30pm Jethro Pongo’s Party Concert 7.30pm SALLY–MORGAN FriTuesday 14th NovemberChas & Dave – 7.30pm Princes Theatre proudly supports Derek Acorah – 10th Fri 17th Friday November 6th Festival Tuesday November The Clacton Sea & Beach &15th Wednesday 11th The10th Psychic Ether- 4.30pm Tour Sat Freddie Starr – 7.30pm SALLY MORGAN on 4th & 5th July 2015.

DINOSAUR ZOO DINOSAUR ZOO 2015 – 7.30 pm Fri 21st Soul Legends – 7.30pm Mon 27th Jethro – 7.30pm Fri 28th The Dreamboys –Wednesday 7.30pm 11th November 10.30am & 4.30pm Bublè AUGUST Fever – StarringDINOSAUR ZOO Box Office: 01255 686633 Book Online: www.essex-live.co.uk Sat 29th RickieFri Arthur 7th – 7.30pm Champions of Rock – The www.tendringdc.gov.uk Fri 21 Aug Sat 29 AugNovember Saturday 21st - 7.30pm Supreme Queen Concert Soul Legends BublèFRANK Fever Show That’sSINATRA Rocking the THE Fri 21 Aug Sat 29 Aug Nation – 7.30pm CENTENNIAL CONCERT Soul Legends Bublè Fever Sun 9th You Are Invited to Marty Friday 27th November - 7.30pm MacDonald’s Farm – THE SHERRY BABY’S Saturday November 21st Pongo’s Party – 2.00pm Saturday November 28th Friday November 27th THE FRANK SINATRA – Starring the voices of THE CIRCUS OF HORRORS THE SHERRY BABY’S Saturday 28th November - 7.30pm CENTENIAL CONCERT Cbeebies Fletcher THE CIRCUSJustin OF HORRORS and Nicole Davis SCOTT ROBINSON from Box Office Thurs 13th LDN Wrestling – Summer Princes Theatre proudly supports 01255 686633 Showdown - 7.30pm as The Clacton Sea & Beach Festival Fri 14th Chas on & Dave – 7.30pm Princes Theatre proudly supports 4th & 5th July 2015.

Book Online The Clacton Seawww.essex-live.co.uk & Beach Festival Tuesday 1stStarr December - 2pm Sat 15th Freddie – 7.30pm on 4th & 5th July 2015.

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES Fri 21st Soul Legends – 7.30pm www.tendringdc.gov.uk Box Office: 01255Fri 686633 Book Saturday 12thwww.essex-live.co.uk December 28th TheOnline: Dreamboys – 7.30pm - Bublè 3rd January Vary) Sat 29th Fever(Times – Starring Box Office: 01255 686633 Book Online: www.essex-live.co.uk www.tendringdc.gov.uk Tuesday December 1st Saturday December 12th - January 3rd RickieALADDIN Arthur – 7.30pm Tues 16th

Fri 19th Sat 20th Sat 27th

SHOWS

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES

www.tendringdc.gov.uk ALADDIN

PRINCES THEATRE, STATION ROAD, CLACTON ON SEA CO15 1SE

12th December 2015 – 3rd January 2016 NTR Nov listing (Eastlife Magazine) 148.5x107 copy #36 #35.qxp_norfolk journal Feb v5 08/10/2015 07:40 Page 1 Box Office: 01255 686633 Book online: www.essex-live.co.uk

NOVEMBER SPONSORED BY

BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00

Sun 8 Nov STEWART LEE Thought-provoking, satirical stand-up £8 - £21

Tues 10 - Sat 14 Nov HANDBAGGED Olivier award-winning comedy starring Susie Blake £7 - £24 Sun 15 Nov BRIT FLOYD Sonically perfect and visually awesome Pink Floyd show £8 - £32.50

Tues 17 - Sat 21 Nov GLYNDEBOURNE OPERA World class opera: Donizetti, Mozart and Handel £8 - £53 Tues 24 - Sat 28 Nov THE NUTCRACKER Northern Ballet's production of magical Christmas ballet £8 - £37.50

The Last Tango

Mon 2 - Sat 7 Nov THE LAST TANGO Strictly superstars Vincent and Flavia in their ultimate farewell stage show £8 - £37.50

Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk T H E AT R E ST R E E T, N O RW I C H N R 2 1 R L

eastlife.co.uk | 29

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LIFESTYLE

MAGICAL CHRISTMAS

MARKETS You don’t have to travel to France or Germany for a Christmas market, wherever you are in the region, we’ve selected the best markets for a festive day out...

Colchester Christmas Fair, 6 Dec, 11am – 5pm

Taking place on the High Street, this festive one day annual event has been making headlines for years.

There is food and drink, presents galore, traditional and exotic hot food and traditional ‘cake hurling’ by the Mayor from the Town Hall Gallery. Last year the market attracted over 12,000 visitors. www.christmasincolchester.co.uk

St Albans Christmas Market, 26 Nov – 20 Dec

Set in the picturesque Vintry Garden, in the grounds of the Cathedral, this Christmas market seems to get more popular every year. Twinkling fairy lights, the smell of roasting chestnuts and mulled wine, Christmas music in the background, plus the majestic backdrop of the illuminated Cathedral make this a must to kick-start your festive season.

There will be in the region of 60 chalets, selling gifts for everyone on your list. Festive goodies, homewares, decorations and gifts as well as tasty hot food. After a browse stop off at the festive bar and warm up with a mulled wine or cider.

The market is open from 11am to 6pm on weekdays with late night opening til 8pm on Thursdays and 10am to 6pm on weekends. www.enjoystalbans.com eastlife.co.uk | 31

Deepdale Christmas Market, Burnham, 4-6 Dec

Now in its 7th year, Deepdale Christmas Market has been developing year on year. The biggest change for 2015 is the addition of Friday afternoon and evening, with the market opening its doors at 2pm on Friday, with late night shopping until 8pm. The market will then be open from 10am to 4pm on both Saturday and Sunday. This year there is a new layout for the Walkway Tent, relieving the pressure along the walkway by The Hare & The Hen and offering more undercover stalls for visitors to enjoy.

The market welcomes over 100 local producers and artisans in large marquees around the Dalegate Market site and in St Mary’s Church. The market is free to attend and also has the bonus of free parking. www.dalegatemarket.co.uk Mill Road Winter Fair, Cambridge, 5 December

Mill Road Winter Fair takes place from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Mill Road is closed from East Road to Coleridge Road, meaning that everyone can enjoy the day in a safe and comfortable atmosphere. The sight of thousands of people calmly flowing up and down the road has a great festive atmosphere. The Fair is known for its special charm with over 10,000 people participating in different ways and enjoying all that the Mill Road area has to offer. www.millroadwinterfair.org Lavenham Christmas Fair, 4-6 Dec

Begin your Christmas with a visit to this three-day magical event set in the lovely Market Place and historic Guildhall. The Dickensian-themed fair starts on the evening of Friday 4 December with the lighting of the village Christmas tree in the Market Place and the arrival of Father Christmas who will be visiting the village throughout the whole weekend.

Among the attractions are late-night shopping, around 80 stalls selling a selection of gifts, clothes and stocking fillers. The big wheel, offering bird’s eyes views over the historic village and surrounding countryside, will be returning while entertainment is planned all weekend including the Lavenham Upbeat Contemporary. There’s a huge emphasis on food and drink, with plenty of sweet treats, mince pies, hog roast and mulled drinks to warm you up. The market opens Saturday and Sunday at 10.30am. www.discoverlavenham.co.uk

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LIFESTYLE

Blackthorpe Barn Christmas Shop

It’s celebrations all round with a spectacular Christmas festival at historic Blackthorpe Barn this winter as it opens its doors for the 25th year running. Each year Christmas begins deep in the rustic woods of Rougham Estate as the medieval Blackthorpe Barn throws open its huge wooden doors to deliver the most amazing Christmas spectacular.

The Country Christmas shop is bursting with festivity; stock piled with decorations, lighting, wrapping and gifts, it’s a Christmas haven. You’ll find plenty of décor themes including Woodland Twilight, Vintage Xmas, Nordic Heartland and Home Sweet Home. The shop is open from 30 Oct – 27 Nov, 9am – 5pm and from 28 Nov to 22 Dec, 9am – 5.30pm.

Elsewhere at the barn the Best of British Crafts, which features over 60 exhibitors will be held every weekend from 14 Nov until 12 Dec. There’s also various Christmas workshops including wreath making and a Santa’s grotto. Christmas trees will be available from 28 November. The colours, shapes and gorgeous scents of these fantastic and luxurious trees are available pot grown, for those prefer small yet beautifully formed trees, or freshly cut for a more strikingly and extravagant feel. www.blackthorpebarn.com

Hatfield House Frost Fair, 26 – 29 Nov

Held in Marquees on Palace Green, Old Palace, Riding School & Stable Yard the fair will be filled with the delicious smells and sights of Christmas. Guests can browse 200 stalls offering plenty of present ideas and fresh food from local producers. There will also be drop in workshops including Christmas decorating using flowers. www.frostfair.co.uk Sandringham Christmas Craft, Food and Gift Fair, 20-22 Nov

Taking place at Sandringham Park, the popular fair covers everything from crafts, presents, Christmas shows and food and drink. Browse the many stalls in the large heated marquees, sample local produce and warm up with a glass of seasonal punch! There will be various working demonstrations including artists, blacksmiths and chainsaw carving, plus children’s pantomime Beauty and the Beast. www.livingheritagecraftshows.com

eastlife.co.uk | 33

Shopping, Food & Fun for the whole family

Christmas Inspiration!

Enjoy a traditional Christmas Shopping atmosphere with exclusive shops for all your gifts and treats.

Late Night Extravaganza Monday 30th Nov 6pm - 10pm

A Festive Treat!

Santa’s Grotto • Postbox Craft Marquee • Hog Roast Firework Finale at 9.30pm Blake End, Nr Braintree, Essex, CM77 6RA

www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk

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CATEGORY

CHRISTMAS CHEER!

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LIFESTYLE

Whether you’re a booze-guzzling star of the dance floor or prefer a more sophisticated Champagne-sipping affair, we’ve selected the best Christmas party ideas to suit all budgets and buddies

Bites at the bar

If you and your friends are more of the less food and more drink types, then meeting friends at your specially reserved place at the bar could be just for you. Forget the formality of a festive dinner and opt for a Venetian concept of Cicchetti at The White Hart in Ampthill. Feast on delicious snacksized dishes from just £18 per person. The ‘Bites at the Bar’ offer is also available at the canal side Navigation at Thrupp Wharf near Cosgrove, if you fancy a change of scenery.

The menus have been created by new Chef Director, Ross Pike, former co-owner of the multi award-winning British Larder in Suffolk.

Selected Oakman Inns’ locations will also be hosting a ‘Bottomless Boxing Day Brunch’ served between 9am – 2pm. With limitless Bloody Marys and glasses of Prosecco served alongside Eggs Royale with Smoked Salmon or a French Toast Stack covered in Maple Syrup and Crispy Bacon, sip away to your heart’s content – a perfect occasion to wear that Christmas jumper or get over your Christmas day hangover! Price from £20 per head. www.christmasoakmaninns.co.uk Winter wonderland

For a stylish gathering, think great food, bubbles and winter wonderland décor, choose Ufford Park in Woodbridge for your celebrations. The hotel’s Deben Suite will be transformed into the magical world of Narnia for the evening with shimmering white drapes and scenic backdrops to take you into the depths of the forest.

Both shared and private dining options are available and feature a three-course meal and disco from £35 per person. The hotel offers plenty of accommodation for overnight guests and a luxurious spa for those looking to ease their hangover the next day. www.uffordpark.co.uk

Pinching the pennies

Christmas can be an expensive time of year, especially if you’re a small or start-up business. However, you’re hard working employees don’t need to miss out on all the festive fun as Stoke By Nayland Hotel is offering a ‘Shoestring Christmas Party Night’ for just £27 per person. A stripped back version of its ‘Classic Party Night’ but still as much fun, the evening is available 28 November and 9 January and will offer a two-course dinner and DJ to dance the night away.

What’s more the hotel is also offering the chance to win a Christmas dinner for two at its Lakes Restaurant, which includes a three-course meal, bottle of Prosecco and mince pies to finish. For details on how to enter and full terms and conditions visit www.stokebynayland.com/hotel/competitions A night to remember

Ultimately the goal of an amazing Christmas party is one that colleagues will be talking about all year long. For an unforgettable office party location look no further than IWM Duxford. The museum will be transformed into an alpine inspired wonderland this Christmas with private hire and shared parties available.

Spectacular lighting will enhance the atmosphere and guests can enjoy the Airspace exhibition before drinking at the alpine cabin bar, while soaking up the party atmosphere and live music. Tuck into a three-course meal before dancing the night away. Snow globe ski games and casino tables will keep lively guests entertained while those looking to chill post-dinner can settle down in front of the fireplace whilst watching old movies.

Prices from £36.95. www.iwmduxfordevents.com

eastlife.co.uk | 37

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LIFESTYLE

COOL AS ICE Read our guide to the best seasonal ice rinks this winter...

One of the best things about the approach of Christmas is the ice rinks that pop up in some of the region’s towns and cities. Shining bright white and dazzled in fairy lights among historic backdrops and parkland, ice skating is the perfect activity to get into the festive spirit. They’re only open for a short time so get your skates on…

THE NORTH POLE CAMBRIDGE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

Parker’s Piece, Parkside, Cambridge, CB2 1AA 20 November – 4 January 2016 The North Pole Cambridge Christmas Festival, fun festive entertainment for everyone is back, giving you the opportunity to get into the spirit of Christmas.

Featuring an icy extravaganza in the heart of the city, this annual festival is centred around the stunning 600m-ice rink. Young visitors can visit Santa’s Throne Room where children will be greeted by Santa and one of his Elves, who will be ready with a gift, while adults can browse the Ye Olde Traditional English Market full of wonderful gift ideas, homemade crafts and festive decorations. A classic fairground compliments the atmosphere and visitors can warm up at undercover Alpine Cabin Bar with a mulled wine or hot chocolate.

There is also a mouth-watering array of festive food to enjoy - authentic German Swing Grill, traditional German sausage and bratwurst, speciality beef burgers, festive turkey & chicken stuffing rolls, crepes and donuts, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

There’s a 20% early bird discount to visitors who book ice skating before 19 November.

Book tickets at www.thenorthpolecambridge.co.uk ‘Like’ our Facebook page for your chance to win a pair of tickets to the ice rink in our ‘12 Days of Christmas’ giveaway.

eastlife.co.uk | 41

LIFESTYLE

Colchester Winter Wonderland & Ice Rink

Colchester Castle, Castle Park, Colchester CO1 1TJ 27 November – 3 January 2016 The historic grounds of Colchester Castle will be transformed into a winter wonderland this Christmas.

With a 25m by 17.5m real ice, ice rink you’ll be able to skate or slide around in the historical setting of Colchester Castle only a few meters away. Young or old – everyone is catered for with skate hire and penguin aids available for the little ones. When you’ve finished skating you’ll be able to enjoy one of the many food and drink stalls on offer or head over to the fairground rides or perhaps take on a bit of Christmas shopping.

On selected dates Santa will be visiting and choirs and music groups will take to the stage a stage to get you in the festive spirit.

Tickets are already going quickly so make sure that you pre-book at www.colchestericerink.co.uk today to avoid disappointment.

Skate Van Hages, Great Amwell

Great Amwell, Pepper Hill, Hertfordshire, SG12 9RP 12 November – 4 January 2016 The garden centre is renowned in Hertfordshire for its fantastic Christmas displays and outdoor ice rink. Now in its eighth year, the ice rink returns for another year of festive fun. The rink is surrounded by a heated marquee so you can watch in comfort or warm up after a whizz around the ice. This year combine your trip with a visit from the reindeers on 5 December between 11am – 3pm. www.vanhage.co.uk

Throughout November we’ll be offering the chance to win a family skating ticket – visit our Facebook page for more details.

Ice Rink at Bedford Swan

The Embankment, Bedford, MK40 1RW 26 November – 4 January 2016 The ice rink, located in the grounds of the charming Bedford Swan Hotel, will coincide its opening with switching-on of the town’s Christmas lights. Throughout December visitors can combine a whirl around the ice with a three-course festive lunch for just £35.

Individual skates cost £6.50. www.bedfordswanhotel.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 43

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LIFESTYLE

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

1.

FOR HER 2.

3.

5.

4.

Whoever you’re looking to please this Christmas, we’ve got it covered with our ultimate gift guide.

If you find yourself asking the question ‘what do women want?’ our list of perfect presents will make life a little easier…

1. Start the New Year in style with a Paperblanks 2016 diary complete with a ribbon marker. Price: £11.99, Talents, 13 King Street, Saffron Walden 2. Orelia has launched a beautiful collection of gift cards ready for the winter season. Each card is emblazoned with a different message including ‘Merry Christmas,’ and ‘Love You To The Moon & Back.’ Price: £15, Snape Maltings, Suffolk & www.orelia.co.uk fashionistas. Price: £55 Norfolk Boutique, Norwich

3. This Wolf & Whistle jumpsuit is the ideal gift for

4. Everyday stress and the harsh winter can take its toll; boost your loved ones skin with the help of Murad’s

Beautiful Bright Skin set featuring three skincare solutions. Price: £75, John Lewis, Cambridge

5. Handmade in Bath, Choc on Choc treats are the perfect stocking

fillers. Price: Snowman, £3.99 Christmas pudding, £8, www.choconchoc.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 45

LIFESTYLE

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

FOR HER 1.

2.

3.

5.

4.

1. Buying for a British Bake Off fan? Help them perfect their bake with a KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer. Price: £429, House of Fraser, nationwide 2. Compact and stylish, this bag from M&S will see you through the party season to spring. Price: £29.50, M&S, The Galleria, Hatfield accessory; dazzle with a beaded clutch! Price: £65, Accessorize, nationwide on the go. Price: £69.99, Argos and Boots nationwide

3. The perfect party

4. Cordless and handbag sized, the Glamoriser Freestyler is the perfect gift for women

5. The summer may be long gone, but the pineapple motif is a must-have interior décor this season. Make a

statement with this candleholder from M&S. Price: £17.50, M&S, nationwide

eastlife.co.uk | 47

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

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

Gifts & Home Lavenham

• Christmas Gifts • Stunning Jewellery • Stylish Accessories • Gifts for the Home • Indulgent Toiletries • Gifts for Children 16B High Street, Lavenham, Suffolk Tel: 01787 247487 anne@cuckooflower.co.uk www.cuckooflower.co.uk 48 | Download Our App Today!

A. 36-38 Station Road, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2SS (Adjacent to Waitrose carpark) T. 01787 312126 E. linda.lowen@hotmail.com W. www.aglifestyle.co.uk Open Monday to Saturday 9.30 AM - 5.00 PM

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17/10/2011 09:30

LIFESTYLE

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

FOR HIM

1.

2.

4.

3.

1. A wonderful gift for cheese lovers – the Godminster hamper includes three award-winning cheeses, rosemary water biscuits and a bottle of red wine. Price: £50 Willow Tree Farm Shop, Sudbury www.godminster.com

2. The Perfect Bodywork, Wheels and Interiors Collection, containing nine products to keep

vehicles in shape is the perfect gift for your car-loving friends and family. Price: £63, Halfords, nationwide ceramic cups are great for a latte on the go! Price: £7.99 Costa, nationwide

3. A fun stocking filler for coffee lovers, Costa’s Christmas

4. Enjoy a tipple with this limited edition gin made from asparagus from Aveling’s

Farm, in March, Cambs. Price: 70cl bottle £39 www.portobelloroad.com & selected independent stores

eastlife.co.uk | 51

BIG BRANDS, SMALL PRICES Clacton Factory Outlet, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4TL For more information on our stores, offers and general opening times please contact us or visit us online.

FA S HIO N O U T L E T S • L E I S U R E S T O R E S • C A F E S F U R NI T U R E A N D H O M E WA R E S • F R E E PA R K IN G Opening times • Monday to Saturday 10am – 6pm • Sunday 11am – 5pm • Bank Holidays 10am – 5pm

CLAC FACTOR TON Y OUTLE DISC T

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

LIFESTYLE

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

1.

FOR HIM 3.

2.

4.

5.

1. Watch his face light up as he unwraps this stylish Briston Clubmaster Chronograph watch. Price: £240 www.hervia.com

2. Let him put his best foot forward

with stylish footwear by Loake. Price: POA Romba Footwear, Ironside Way, Hingham, Norwich www.rombafootwear.com trend everyday essentials to his wardrobe. Price: Jumper, £25, Jeans, £25, Trainers, £25, Burton Menswear, nationwide

3. Add some on

4. Just chuck your life in it and go – a

backpack is the answer to most of life’s luggage-based problems. Price: £95 Dr. Martens Norwich, 23-25 Castle Street 5. Let your husband or dad put his feet up and relax in style with the ultimate luxury lounger by Natuzzi Italia. Price: £1,790 House of Fraser, Norwich

eastlife.co.uk | 53

CHRISTMAS IS COMING ...

DON’T LEAVE IT TOO LATE TO GET YOUR PORTRAITS DONE!

38, MARKET STREET, ELY, CAMBS. CB7 4LS 01353 776267 WWW.IANSTACEYPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK 54 | Download Our App Today!

www.cambridgetoyshop.co.uk

LIFESTYLE

1. Hours of creativity is guaranteed with a Magformers car. Suitable from 18 months. Price: Sets from £15, 15-16 Sussex St, City Centre, Cambridge CB1 1PA www.cambridgetoyshop.co.uk

2. smarTrike’s, one of a kind

extreme SkiScooter is the perfect to get little ones out & about.Reducing body weight on the knees, the intuitive SkiScooter activates leg muscles and also helps to develop

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

FOR KIDS

balance abilities, motor skills and self-confidence. Price: from £89.99, Exclusive to Smyths Toys Superstore

3. Fun for ages 3 years and upwards.

Set of Wooden Stacking Robots, Price: £12, Jollys Toys, 28a High St, Thrapston www.JollysToys.co.uk

4. Skribble Head by Paul Lamond

1.

Games, will guarantee giggles this Christmas. All players have to do is guess what is that is being drawn. It sounds simple but maybe not so when the masterpiece is being sketched blind in just 15 seconds by the player wearing the drawing board on their forehead! Price: £14.95 Amazon, Waterstones and all good Independent Toy and Gift stores 5. GEE WHIZZ is jam-packed with a fantastic array of basic tricks and magical activities that are perfect for little ones to master.

Age 5+. Price: £19.99 www.drumondpark.com

3.

2.

4.

5.

eastlife.co.uk | 55

HOLT LAPTOP CENTRE • Sell & Repair Laptops • PCs • Apple Products • Apple Macbook • iPhones • Accessories & Print Cartridges

t: 01263 711622 e: info@holtlaptops.co.uk w: www.holtlaptops.co.uk 16 Chapel Yard, Albert Street, Holt NR25 6HG

www.angliacomputersolutions.co.uk

Swaffham - (Head Office) - t: 01760 336122 53 Market Place, Swaffham, PE37 7LE Downham Market - t: 01366 387970 9 Market Place, Downham Market, PE38 9DG Wymondham - t: 01953 859753 7 Market Street, Wymondham, NR18 OAJ

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Dear Santa mewhere e to spend it so This year I’d lik can have a great day out we , something special. Where fun things to do me so d fin g, pin shop d the night. t and then spen different to ea my sprouts on Christmas Day! t all I promise to ea (age 5½) lly Po om fr ve Lo

Festive Fun, come for the shopping, stay for the experience!

We have a large range of PC’s, Custom built PC’s, Laptops, Netbooks & Tablet’s Tablets from £99

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Win a family night stay in Colchester at The George + VIP shopping trip with Williams and Griffin + much more! www.visitcolchester.com to enter Don’t miss our Christmas light switch-on Sunday 29 November, 2.30 – 4.30pm

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LIFESTYLE

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

FOR TECHIES 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Impress your tech-loving friends and family members with these latest gadgets 1. Know someone whose phone always runs out of battery? The Seyvr chargeable wallet is here to rescue you! Seyvr is a sleek, slim and stylish leather wallet for men with a build in phone charger. The battery in the wallet can be recharged in 2.5hrs using the supplied USB cable. Price: £59.95, Cuckooland.com

2. Go back in time and

play your way back to the future with the Retro TV Games Controller which plugs straight into your TV - a fabulous and affordable gadget gift for all ages, it comes with no less than 200 games. Price: £14, www.thegreatgiftcompany.co.uk www.camerajungle.co.uk www.ibeani.co.uk

3. Take photography to a whole new level with the DJI Phantom 3 Standard. Price: £649,

4. This stylish bean bag will hold iPads, tablets and e-readers at the perfect angle on any surface. 20 designs available. Price: £24.99,

5. Ever since Back to The future 2 we have yearned for a life when popping down to the local shops meant jumping on a hover board. Sadly we’re still

not quite there, however the awesome Airwheel Airboard is the closest thing we seen yet! These transportation devices allow you to effortlessly travel from A to B with minimum effort. The top speed is an impressive 8 MPH and the distance this marvel of technology will travel is between 7-9 miles. Price: £599.95, www.red5.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 57

58| Download Our App Today!

LITTLE EAST

FESTIVE

FUN! If the kids are already hyped up for Christmas, here’s a few ideas to keep them entertained before you can take them to see the big man himself…

Camel Rides

No, we’re not suggesting you take the family to Dubai but instead to Braintree! For one day only on 14 November the George Yard will be offering the opportunity to ride a one-hump camel in the shopping centre. Half hour slots can be booked on the website or by picking up a form in the centre. The centre is asking for donations in exchange of a ride to local charities; Farleigh Hospice, Essex Wildlife Trust, PARC and the Essex Air Ambulance. www.georgeyard.co.uk The Wizard of Oz – A magical ice show

Tickets for this year’s much-loved panto on ice, ‘The Wizard of Oz – A magical ice show’, at Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre, Chelmsford, Essex, are now on sale.

The ice adaptation will follow Dorothy and friends along the yellow brick road from 16 to 20 December.

This year’s show is a must for anyone with a love of panto, ice dance and theatre. You will be entertained with fabulously colourful costumes and catchy songs.

The performance showcases the superb skating skills of a talented local cast as this classic tale is brought to life.

Tickets start from just £5. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/iceshow Santa Specials at Bure Valley Railway

The Santa Train departs from Wroxham Station and travels to Aylsham Station where Santa and his railway sleigh are there to welcome everybody. A visit to Santa in his Grotto with a personalised present for each

child provides a memorable experience. Entertainment and festive refreshments for all the family add to the Christmas magic, before climbing aboard the Santa Train for the return journey to Wroxham.

The complete Steam Trains to Santa experience takes approximately three hours, including a named present for each child 12 and under and only costs £15 per person (adults and children). The Santa Specials this year are running weekends from 29th November and daily from 18th December, up to and including Christmas Eve. Booking is essential. www.bvrw.cco.uk Christmas Market at Jimmy’s Farm

It may be getting a little chilly but that’s no excuse to not enjoy the great outdoors. Wrap up warm and combine a day at the farm with festive fun. On 5 and 6 December, 10am-4pm, the farm will host its Christmas market. The farm and its attractions will be open as usual, plus they’ll be plenty of stalls, live music and mulled wine and cider for the adults. Santa’s grotto will be open but must be pre-booked. www.jimmysfarm.com A Victorian Christmas at Audley End

The beautiful English Heritage site will once again host a Victorian Christmas on 28 - 29 November and 5-6 December. Step back in time to the 1800s and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian Christmas. It’s a great day of fun and learning for all ages and plenty to see and do. Adult £15.75, child £9.81 Early bird discount of 10% if you book before 16 November. www.english-heritage.org.uk For more festive events for the little ones visit www.eastlife.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 59

Other winter events

2013

WINNER HERITAGE RAILWAY OF THE YEAR

Halloween Scream Express Saturday 31 October It’s dark...it’s spooky... it must be our special trip through a cold and dark wasteland. Be prepared for surprises during the journey!

Christmas Carol Train Saturday 5 and Saturday 12 December Join us for a festive ride ride through the Norfolk countryside to Thuxton where it’s just a short walk to the village church for a traditional evening of carols.

Christmas Jazz Train Saturday 19 December The winter version of our popular music train. The band plays on the platform before departure from Dereham and then joins us on the train with stop-offs en route.

Winter Diesel Enthusiasts Gala Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 January The big day may have come and gone but blow away the winter cobwebs with two days of big diesel engines including visiting locomotives

How to find us Dereham Station, Station Road, Dereham, Norfolk, NR19 1DF Wymondham Abbey Station, Cavick Road, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 9PH (Please note Wymondham Abbey Station is approximately 1 mile from the National Rail station)

Telephone 01362 851723

Website www.mnr.org.uk

Facebook midnorfolkrailway

Twitter @midnorfolkrly

www.mnr.org.uk 01362 851723

Find us on

Registered Charity 1046931 – Dereham Station, Station Road, Dereham, Norfolk NR19 1DF

Visit us at www.mnr.org.uk

Father Christmas and his Reindeer

Fairhaven Garden

l©

tai

De

Da

vid

t

ile

ub

Do

Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th December

12 DECEMBER 2015 TO 14 FEBRUARY 2016 Adults £4, children 16 and under £2.50, family (2 adults and 2 children) £12, tickets available on door Oaklands Park, Moulsham Street, Chelmsford CM2 9AQ Contact 01245 605700 Email museums@chelmsford.gov.uk web chelmsford.gov.uk/museums

Generously supported by

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London.

60 | Download Our App Today!

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Presentation of this voucher entitles you to: UP TO

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10.00am

THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH

NR29 3DR

% 01493 369477 www.thrigbyhall.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 61

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Nothing beats the smell of a real fir at Christmas.

If you’re thinking of picking your own pine, take a look at our favourite farms...

Christmas in the Easters, Dunmow, Essex

If you want to make the most of choosing a tree, visit this 900-acre farm. The trees are cut fresh for you and there is plenty of choice in size and shape. You can also visit the Christmas Wrapped Up Tree and Wreath Shop, which is full of festive décor. www.christmaswrappedup.co.uk Elvedon Farm, Suffolk

Due to popular demand the farm is open 9am to 7.30pm everyday in the lead up to Christmas. There is a display of over 200 trees to choose from including Norway Spruce and the non-drop Nordman Fir. It also offers mid-week discount. www.christmastree-farm.co.uk

The farm has been over 40 years experience growing Christmas trees and is renowned for its quality. It offers plenty of festive fun including a Santa grotto every weekend throughout December, singing elves, reindeers and Newfoundland dogs which will tow trees to your car for a small donation to charity. www.elveden.com

Mill Field Orchard, Ely

Norfolk Christmas Trees

A traditional working farm selling apples and Christmas trees, set on a hill with lovely views across Cambridgeshire. Open the three weekends before Christmas, Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Rooted trees are Norway Spruce.

Located at The Great Melton Estate, situated between Norwich and Wymondham, trees such as Norway Spruce and Nordmann Fir are cut fresh daily. There’s also plenty of pot grown tress, mistletoe, holly, and decorations. www.norfolk-christmastrees.co.uk

Dane End Christmas Tree Farm, Ware, Herts

eastlife.co.uk | 63

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Deben carpets and Flooring, Unit N, Bristol Court, Betts Avenue, 28 Wingfield Street, Bungay, 1EZ Martlesham Heath, Ipswich.Suffolk, Suffolk IP5NR35 3RY

www. debencarpetsandf looring. co. uk Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

An

APPETISER

Cambridge’s Varsity Hotel partners with Chocolat Chocolat for masterclass

If you love chocolate then this is for you! On Tuesday 17 November, The Varsity Hotel & Spa will hold a delicious chocolate and wine pairing master class with Chocolat Chocolat, voted Cambridge’s favourite chocolatier.

The master class will provide attendees with the knowledge to taste and identify the distinctive flavours of the highest quality single origin and blended chocolate, showcasing how wine pairings can provide an exciting culinary combination that enhances the taste experience of both.

Tickets £25 per person.

Tel: 01223 306030 | www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk

AA Silver Star Award for Brudenell Hotel, Aldeburgh

The privately owned Brudenell Hotel on Aldeburgh’s seafront has been selected to receive a coveted AA Silver Star Award for 2015 for its high standards of hotel keeping, superior level of quality, hospitality, service and cleanliness. Placing the hotel nearer the top of its four star grading, the award follows a recent visit by an AA inspector.

In order to meet the AA’s criteria for this award, hotels must also have at least one current rosette for culinary excellence; the Brudenell’s Seafood & Grill has held two rosettes for several years. Focusing on ethically-sourced local produce from land and sea, it is fast becoming recognised as East Anglia’s premier seafood destination thanks to Head Chef, Tyler Torrance and his kitchen brigade. www.brudenellhotel.co.uk.

Suffolk farmer wins Farmers Weekly Award

Sally Bendall of Hollow Trees Farm, Ipswich, was crowned Local Food Farmer of the Year, sponsored by FARMA, the recent Farmers Weekly Awards.

Sally is as impressive as her business. By embracing learning and other people, she has grown her farming enterprise into a highly professional outfit with 60 staff and a turnover in the region of £2m/year.

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa recognised for outstanding break-feast

The Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa has been awarded the prestigious Visit England Breakfast Award, which recognises the sumptuous spread of delicious breakfast treats on offer, served to each customer’s individual desires. The Bedford Lodge hotel is currently the only 4-star hotel in Newmarket, situated opposite the famous Newmarket racecourse paddocks and training stables.

From the ashes of near bankruptcy, Sally and her husband Robert have turned their business from a roadside cart into a thriving farm shop, café and education destination and the farm now pulls in 235,000 visitors a year.

The awards were held at the prestigious Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane London on Thursday 1 October 2015.

eastlife.co.uk | 65

Albatros Bar, Restaurant, B&B

Traditional DUTCH CUISINE incl. our famous BACON, BRIE & CRANBERRY PANCAKES

Speciality Lodging/B&B Live Music Every Weekend Private & Corporate Parties Dine BELOW DECK in our cosy restaurant and bar area Christmas SPECIALS MENU Available Open every day from 12 noon except closed on Christmas Day

CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

VISIT www.albatroswells.co.uk for more details

LIVE MUSIC on Boxing Day from 8.45pm

On board historic sailing ship ALBATROS, The Quay, Wells-next-to-sea.

For Enquiries

07979 087228

NEW! to Godmanchester.

The classy upmarket Grand Piano CafĂŠ offering A unique experience in family dining always ensuring a warm welcome.

Opening soon for evening meals from 6.30pm to 9.30pm (Thursday, Friday & Saturday Only).

Book ahead or drop in.

New exciting full range menu.

CATERING FOR PRIVATE FUNCTIONS, PARTIES & EVENTS ALCOHOLIC DRINK LICENCE PENDING Winter Opening Hours: 9am to 4pm from 24th October to 30th March 2016.

01480437080

|

www.thegrandpianocafe.co.uk

43 Cambridge Street, Godmanchester, Huntingdon, Cambridge, PE29 2AY

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1502Q_BRU&WL_EastLifeMag_Ad_Layout 1 07/09/2015 12:05 Page 1

3

3

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We love festivities here at The White Lion and once again are looking forward to celebrating this special time of year with you.

From live music nights and seven-course banquets, to Santa Sundays and afternoon teas by the sea there is plenty for everyone in this magical part of Suffolk.

3

3

If you fancy a longer stay and a real vacation this Christmas, we have some fantastic overnight packages, too!

3

3

S PA R K L E THIS CHRISTMAS Christmas is coming and we think it’s a great time to do nothing much more than let us look after you.

When you stay for a few days or even just pop into the Seafood & Grill Restaurant, we’ll keep delicious locally-sourced food and lovely festive drinks coming. And tidy up at the same time, of course!

Then the fizz really starts to flow in the run-up to New Year…

Enjoy sparkling seasonal stays from £ 355 per person

Aldeburgh

www.brudenellhotel.co.uk Brudenell Hotel, The Parade, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BU Telephone: 01728 452071 info@brudenellhotel.co.uk

CHRISTMAS WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS

Not cooking this Christmas? We pick the region’s best places to dine out

Let’s face it cooking a Christmas dinner can be a bit of a faff. If you don’t feel like spending the majority of December 25 in the kitchen, then why not leave the stress to the professionals? With crackers and champers at the ready, you can guarantee a merry Christmas at one of these festive feasts…

Beds

Herts

Christmas doesn’t get more magical than the celebrations at Woburn Hotel. Surrounded by stunning parkland with reindeers grazing and spectacular décor the hotel will be serving a truly luxurious three-course menu with main options such a roasted Turkey with all the trimmings and a loin of venison. The menu offers something suitable for tastes and caters well for vegetarians too!

Price: £105 per person Tel: 01525 290 441 | www.thewoburnhotel.co.uk

A frosty golf course, soothing spa and grand in every sense of the word, Hanbury Manor offers a stunning setting for Christmas Day dining. Embodying a vintage essence, with its high ceilings, large fireplaces, twinkling tree and traditional décor, guests can enjoy a glass of bubbly and delicious carvery lunch in the Manor House.

There’s also a buffet lunch ideal for families, offering an informal fun yet elegant setting and a visit from Santa.

Rooms are available for overnight stays too.

Tel: 01920 487722 | www.marriott.com

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FOOD & DRINK

Essex

Norfolk

If it’s a countryside setting you’re looking for then throughout the county there are plenty of quaint and cosy pubs perfect for a Christmas celebration. Try the Cricketers Arms, in Rickling Green, a mere 10 minutes drive from Saffron Walden. The modern pub offers up big armchairs to snuggle into in front of the fire with a pre or post dinner drink, a tasty three-course dinner and overnight accommodation.

Price: £75 per person, rooms available from £60.

Tel: 01799 543210 www.thecricketersarmsricklinggreen.co.uk

Dine in a little winter wonderland at Barnham Broom’s atmospheric Christmas marquee. Situated 10 minutes outside of Norwich, the hotel and restaurant is going all out this Christmas. Guests can choose from either a four or five course menu, featuring hearty festive food such as butternut squash, pheasant and of course a succulent turkey. The dessert options are simply divine including the choice of mulled wine parfait with hazelnut, chocolate tart or local cheeses.

Price from £65 per person Tel: 01603 759393 | www.barnham-broom.co.uk

Cambridgeshire

Suffolk

Cambridge is beautiful throughout the entire Christmas period, and year round for that matter, but what better way to soak up the festive cheer than by taking a stroll around the city on Christmas Day. The crowds will have disappeared and you’ll be able to take in the festive charm. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, visit Hotel Felix for a traditional Christmas lunch. Served in its Graffiti Restaurant overlooking the spacious grounds and gardens, canapés will be offered on arrival, followed by a delicious three course lunch, coffee and truffles.

Price: £87 per person Tel: 01223 277977 | www.hotelfelix.co.uk

There’s nothing quite like a pre-Christmas dinner stroll, and where better to enjoy the crisp winter air than the Suffolk coastline? Overlooking Aldeburgh beach, the White Lion Hotel is offering a cosy Christmas with its festive décor, roaring fires and food aplenty. A great option whether you live in the area or fancy getting away this Christmas, the hotel will be serving a delicious six-course feast and offers a three-night full board break.

Price: Christmas Day £70 per person, three-night stay £535 per person Tel: 01728 452720 | www.whitelion.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 69

Christmas at the King’s Head Ivinghoe ROASTS 12 - 6 EVERY SUNDAY! 100% LOCALLY SOURCED FRESH PRODUCE DAILY SPECIALS

Festive Menu £35.00 from Monday 7th December

FAMILY FRIENDLY

LIVE MUSIC

Beautiful Banqueting Suite for that extra special occasion FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

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1 BROCKLEY ROAD, ELSWORTH CB23 4JS

01954 268167

www.kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk

The Imperial Wine Company

7 Trinity Street, Bungay, Suffolk, NR35 1EH www.imperialwine.co.uk sales@imperialwine.co.uk

Wedding Breakfasts - Private Parties - Meetings & for all Your sPecial occassions

01986 892911

We work our socks off to bring you THE most fabulous and affordable wines, the majority of which are sourced from small, independent-­‐minded vineyards.

We believe that better and far more interesting products come from the smaller, often family-­‐run vineyards, where painstaking care is taken over every step of the wine making process.

ENJOY CHRISTMAS at MoreteYne Manor

DECEMbER 2015 MENu £32.50 per head* - inc of VaT Woburn Road, Marston Moreteyne, Beds, MK43 0NG www.moreteynemanor.co.uk

E: dining@moreteynemanor.co.uk

Open Tues to Sat for lunch and dinner (Functions only on Sunday)

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They are available to order over the phone, via email or else you can visit our excellent little Georgian-­‐fronted shop in Bungay, Suffolk.

We ship and deliver our wine around the Waveney area, the UK and internationally using our meticulous and brilliant local courier partners.

The shop is open to visit Monday to Friday 0930/1730 and on Saturdays 0930/1600.

Mention ‘Eastlife’ for an extra 5% off your first order.

FOOD & DRINK

The Autumn Wine Guide Jane Mohan of West Street Vineyard, in Coggeshall, Essex, tells us how to choose the perfect autumn wine for a cosy night in

The air has begun to sharpen and summer seems to be long gone as we have experienced what, at times, seems like unrelenting torrential downpours. Choosing a wine is as much about emotion as it is about taste. With a little bit of luck, we might get an Indian summer, but you can’t ignore the fact that it is dark by 8pm. For me, the changing season marks a change in the wines that I like to drink. Somehow those crisp fruity whites and pale rosés - with their hint of strawberry and cream - don’t seem quite right for the season of mellow fruitfulness.

What I look for this time of year is a richer wine that works with my mood - which can be lifted at once by one glorious autumn day full of wonderful glowing colours and sparkling sun shine. Chardonnay is perhaps one of the most flexible grape varieties. In cooler climes it has the crisp crunch of green apples, yet just with a little more heat from the sun and a touch of oak you get Chardonnay with honey sweetened Jasmine tea flavours.

Chardonnays from Burgundy can be amazing, but have price tags to match, so look for Chardonnay from South Africa, cooler climate Australia (from the Mornington Peninsular in Victoria), or New Zealand. Sometimes it is easy to think, because all we see in the supermarket is Sauvignon Blanc, that New Zealand is a one trick pony, but that is not the case; Kiwi Chardonnay at its best is elegant and fruit driven. Perfect for a Halloween supper of pumpkin pie or a roast pork Sunday roast with autumnal butternut squash on the side. If the bottle is not finished at lunch, then the Chardonnay can be brought into the living room after lunch to watch the Sunday movie curled up on the sofa.

The swimming costume has gone into the cupboard for another year so there is no need to force myself to eat endless salads - so that I won’t feel so bad lying on the beach – now I can eat the food that autumn provides.

Game pie, pheasant casserole or perhaps a rabbit stew and, what is more, enjoy the wines that work best with this type of food; one that delivers both on flavour and comfort.

A lovely aged Rioja would work well with a rabbit stew while a peppery spicy Shiraz from the New World would deliver on all levels with game. There is something lovely about shutting the door on a rainy day, lighting the wood burner and enjoying a glass of a rich fruity red which reminds us with every mouthful of sunnier, warmer days. Whichever wine you choose this autumn, enjoy! eastlife.co.uk | 71

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FASHION

Seasonal

Beauty Trends Party season is among us, which means we’ll be layering on the make-up ready for some fun snaps and ashamedly a few selfies.

To ensure you look party perfect Eastlife’s Emma reviews the best products for achieving this seasons beauty looks.

Brilliant brows What is it? Bare Minerals Brow Powder to style, shape and define.

Perfect coverage

Price: £14, www.bareminerals.co.uk

What is it? Magic Mineral from JML all-in-one foundation covers, conceals and corrects in seconds. It erases fine lines, dark circles and blemishes in one sweep. The four coloured pigments contained within the light and creamy mineral powder work with and adapt to your skin tone.

Verdict: I am huge fan of Bare Minerals make-up and this Brow Powder doesn’t disappoint. Great for filling in those gaps and giving eyebrows definition the powder covers eyebrows without excess and lasts the whole day. I recommend applying with the Bare Minerals Brow Master Brush, priced £15.

Price: £9.99, JML stockists

Smokey eyes What is it? BD Trade Secrets Eyeshadow Bon Bon in Night Glamour

Verdict: This product really does do what it says on the tin. Easy to use, full coverage and an affordable price, this foundation ticks all the boxes.

Price: £8.99, www.tesco.com/beauty Verdict: Messy graphic eyes and deep dark lips were among the key beauty trends on the catwalk this season. This compact palette offers four shades perfect for achieving a dramatic eye effect.

There’s very little excess, which makes applying easy.

Skin prep

Classic contouring

What is it? OSKIA Renaissance Mask. A brightening and resurfacing mask that leaves skin smoother, more refined and illuminated.

What is is? Smashbox step-by-step contour kit.

Price: £48, Space.NK

Price: £35, Boots & Smashbox counters nationwide

Verdict: I must admit I’m not a fan of face masks, I often find they don’t do anything at all, however the OSKIA Renaissance Mask has proved me wrong. Easy to apply and 20 minutes later my skin instantly looked brighter and felt fresh. This is a great product to use once a week to keep skin in its best shape through the party season.

Verdict: The contoured look has become hugely popular in recent months. A tricky beauty trend to master, Smashbox cosmetics has made it a little easier with its step-by-step contour kit. It comes with three shades that mimic perfect lighting: The three ultra blendable creamy sticks glide onto skin for targeted contouring.

eastlife.co.uk | 73

12 Dec East Life Wedding QP 2015_Layout 1 13/10/2015 09:28

The Wedding of a lifetime, remembered forever

Let us share our wealth of knowledge and passion for weddings with you, making sure your dream day runs smoothly from your initial enquiry through to the big day.

Wedding Specials; November to April 2016 from only £1800* incl VAT

· Civil ceremonies and wedding receptions · Set in 120 acres of historic parkland · Spacious air-conditioned event rooms with spectacular views · Perfect for intimate or larger weddings · Warm and friendly service · Thermal suite spa - ideal for pre-wedding celebrations · On-site hair, beauty & treatment salons * Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply.

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

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The Perfect Venue Wedding or private venue party

At Back to the Garden, a magnificent vaulted 18th century threshing barn your guests can enjoy a true taste of local quality - from a simple buffet to a formal 4-course meal. Back to the Garden offers everything that a successful wedding day should have.

Tel: 01263 715996

christopher@back-to-the-garden.co.uk www.back-to-the-garden.co.uk

Fakenham Road, Lethingsett, Nr Holt, NR25 7JJ

WEDDINGS

WINTER WEDDING WONDERLAND Autumn and winter weddings are becoming more and more popular. On a crisp, sunny day there is nothing more impressionable than walking or driving through parkland covered in snow or being surrounded by horse chestnut trees to eventually arrive at a cosy and welcoming reception.

There are several ways to make a winter wedding truly romantic, firstly, choose a venue that will instantly make your guests forget the cold due to its elegant architecture and warmly decorated rooms. The banqueting room at Hylands for instance is sumptuously decorated with red silk lined walls and hand-painted gold wall motifs to create an instantly inviting effect.

Ensure your menu has a wintry theme with roasts, sausage and mash, pies etc. Try a sponge pudding for dessert.

Select a venue that has space and beautiful backdrops for photography both inside and out. Pick one that has lovely garden vistas and rooms that look stunning on their own, even without a theme.

Arrive in style. Try a carriage drawn by rare-breed heavy horses for the grandest and most romantic of entrances. It can be good to have a theme – go decadent and design your own Moroccan Riad with lots of deep blues, orange and red colour hues. Drape jewel-tone fabrics over tables, and cushions and have vibrant lanterns giving out a soft warm glow. Or try a Russian take, with fake fur covered cushions, and embroidered tablecloths.

Lastly, although rooms can look cosy if they are decorated with colours such as reds, make sure that they really are warm and can be heated properly with no nasty drafts. Winter weddings can be the most romantic of all, with soft snow on the ground or trees with leaves turning red and bronze giving a picture-perfect scene.

And added gestures such as being driven to a venue by a horse-drawn carriage in the winter to a place where a warm welcome awaits, makes for a truly memorable wedding.

Light can be important on a dull day so it is good to have a venue with large windows that let any sun stream through.

Article by Tamsin Beeson, Hirings Co-ordinator, Hylands House, Essex | www.hylandsestateweddings.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 75

A schOOL dEsIgnEd fOr

LITTLE PEOPLE

OPEN DAY

Saturday 7th November 10am - 12 noon For further details please visit our website or call 01234 369555

Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School Brickhill Drive, Bedford MK41 7QZ

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

Bold Imaginative Reflective Three words to define your daughter’s future.

Add three more:

Open Morning Friday 20th November, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 | www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

We are the Stephen Perse

ST

ALBANS

SCHOOL

HMC Day School 840 pupils Headmaster: Jonathan Gillespie MA

ENTRY FOR BOYS at 11 and 13 ENTRY FOR BOYS and GIRLS at 16+

the first School in Hertfordshire

Independent School of the Year 2014/15 ‘The achievement of pupils across all ages is exceptional’

Visit us to discover why www.stephenperse.com

ISI Inspection Report 2014

• 91%A*-B at A Level; 86% A*-A at GCSE • Coach services at 4pm and 6pm • Finest games facilities in the county • Extensive extra-curricular activities • Bursaries and Scholarships (up to 100%) awarded at each entry level • Easy reach by Thameslink train Registrar, St Albans School, Abbey Gateway, St Albans, Herts AL3 4HB Telephone : 01727 515182 email: admissions@st-albans.herts.sch.uk www.st-albans.herts.sch.uk

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CONSUMER

IN THE

SPOTLIGHT Where is your favourite place to dine in the region?

The Packhorse, Moulton, only three miles away – the food, décor and atmosphere cannot be beaten.

What events will you be attending to this year in the area?

Looking forward to all the race meetings here at Newmarket.

What do you do in your spare time?

As another school year begins, Fairstead House School in Newmarket, welcomes its new head teacher. We caught up with Dr Lynda Brereton to hear her plans for the school…

Tell us about Fairstead House School

It’s an independent school for boys and girls aged from 2 to 11.

I enjoy entertaining and going racing when I can.

What can Eastlife readers look forward to from Fairstead House this year?

I would invite Eastlife readers in to school so they can see for themselves all the wonderful things that are happening! www.fairsteadhouseschool.co.uk

What areas do you cover in East of England?

Children come to Fairstead from Newmarket and surrounding villages towards Cambridge, Clare, Bury St Edmunds and Ely. What makes the school special?

We are the only independent school in the area and offer a bespoke package for each child to provide an exciting and stimulating curriculum allowing each child to reach their potential.

What is your favourite place to visit in East Anglia?

Cambridge – we are spoilt with such beautiful architecture on our doorstep.

eastlife.co.uk | 77

Whoever you are...

Wherever you are going...

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

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

£14

*

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

www.intalink.org.uk |

@intalink

MOTORING

THE Kia Cee’d UNDERGOES A FACELIGHT FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: Kia Cee’d SR7 5 door hatchback 6 speed

manual Price: £15,750 otr Engine: 1.4 litre 98bhp Performance: 0-62 in 12.3 seconds and on to a top

speed of 114 mph

CO2 emissions: 138 g/km Combined fuel consumption: 47.1 mpg

Reviewed by Sue Cooke I admit to being a bit of a gadget lover and so I loved the jingle, which announced that the driver has turned off the ignition on the facelifted Kia Cee’d. The revised 3- door, called Pro_Cee’d, and the five-door, named the Cee’d and the Sportwagon all went on sale on 1 October.

The Cee’d which has a raft of improvements and enhancements in just about every area, has the usual Kia guarantee of top specification without ‘extras’ which bump up the price. So with a choice of four trims, the basic trim 1, will include a proper spare wheel and air conditioning in the quality cabin, as well as a long list of safety equipment.

The five-door is a core product for Kia and is designed and engineered for Europe with more than one million sold. The new model has improved refinement, comfort, economy, quality and durability. In fact it’s difficult to ‘improve’ upon as the previous model was recognised in the J.D.Power quality survey where it was deemed by current owners to be ‘the most dependable compact car’.

At the launch I drove three models, although there are 19 versions of the five-door Cee’d. The three-door Pro_Cee’d of which there are nine versions, has a lower chassis by 40mm and for those who like a sporty look without necessarily the power, there is a new GT Line.

For drivers who want performance, the 2016 GT model has power of 201bhp and reaches 60mph in 7.3 seconds. Another appealing gadget is the electric sound generator which delivers an even more rich and exciting engine note into the cabin.

I drove the Pro_Cee’d GT Line powered by a new 1 litre 3 cylinder turbo-charged engine which has fantastic

immediate acceleration. The engine is developed inhouse at Kia’s Namyang research and development facility in Korea and there are no economy or emission penalties that usually come with speed.

I also drove the new 1.6 litre diesel engine which Luke Ayres, the Cee’d Product Specialist says will be the best-selling version among company car buyers, thanks to its combination of improved power and torque with lower fuel consumption and emissions. The greatest gains will be when this CRDi engine is paired with the 7-DCT gearbox. Compared with the previous model with a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, emissions tumble by almost 25 per cent, from 145g/km to 109, with fuel economy of 67.3mpg.

Luke said: “The retail favourite is likely to be the petrol 1.4 SR7 special edition.” And if you buy this model in November Kia is offering the Care-3 service plan, providing the first three services at a competitive price of £99.

Kia expects to sell 13,500 versions of the upgraded Cee’d family in its first full year, with 9,100 going to fleet and business customers and 4,400 going to retail customers.

You can follow Sue Cooke on Twitter - @cookecars eastlife.co.uk | 79

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FLOORING AND GRANITE WORK SURFACES INCLUDED* Situated in an enviable location in the Waveney Valley, Waterside Place benefits from an open aspect with private gardens and far reaching views over the wildlife corridor.

This prime position is only 25 minutes from Norwich city centre.

• Beautiful bright and spacious 3 bedroom executive mews home.

• Generous open plan lounge / dining room with bi fold doors leading out onto a private garden.

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01986 894608 * Offer valid during October / November 2015 only. Terms and conditions apply, - please ask our sales negotiators for further details. **Terms and conditions apply - please ask our sales negotiators for further details. Images are indicative of properties at the Waterside and other similar PJ Livesey developments. No assumptions should be made as each property is individually designed, please contact the sales team for full details.

CONSUMER

Martin Lewis BANK ACCOUNTS

Fancy some free cash in time for Christmas? Well, those generous bowler hatted ladies and gents at your bank are giving it away. Quite literally, they will pay you up to £150 to switch bank account and, as it can also improve the service and features, grab it.

The bank account switching market is red hot, with many banks willing to pay for your custom – and you should get the money in time to boost your Christmas kitty.

Here are the need-to-knows.

Q. You’re talking about switching, but I’ve heard all types of horror stories?

Much of that is a legacy opinion from a few years ago.

We’ve just celebrated the second birthday of what’s called ‘seven-day switching’, and that’s made the process easier. I did a poll of 100s of people on my Facebook page who’d tried it and 82% said they found it ‘easy and hassle-free’, while only 4% experienced problems.

In practice, when you apply for a new bank account, assuming you’re accepted, three things happen within seven working days: 1. All standing orders and direct debits are moved for you.

2. Your old account is closed.

3. All payments to your old account are auto-forwarded for three years.

FOR MORE ADVICE ON HOW TO SWITCH BANK ACCOUNTS DOWNLOAD THE EASTLIFE APP!

Q. OK, so it’s easy, but what’s this about free money?

Many of the challenger banks (those who want to break the dominance of the old ones) want you to switch to them so much they’re willing to pay you to do it.

There’s a full rundown and eligibility criteria at mse.me/ bankaccounts. But, in brief, here are the current top picks: • The Clydesdale Bank (Cbonline.co.uk) Current Account Direct gives a free £150 – the cash comes within 70 days of switching and paying in £1,000.

Other benefits: pays 2% AER interest on the first £3,000.

• FirstDirect.co.uk gives switchers a free £125 (or more via some websites) – cash comes within 28 days of switching and paying in £1,000. Other benefits: It’s won every customer service poll I’ve ever run, 92% rate it great, it has a linked 6% regular saver, 0% overdraft up to £250.

• Halifax.co.uk/Reward gives a free £125 within three working days of switching. Other benefits: Pays £5 each month as long as you’re in credit.

• The marksandspencer.com current account gives a free £100 M&S gift card within a month of switching. Other benefits: Unlike other accounts, you don’t have to pay in a set monthly amount, it has a linked 6% regular saver, 0% overdraft up to £100. eastlife.co.uk | 81

HOME & GARDEN

Why it pays to be a landlord Article by Aaron Pooley Rising house prices, buy-to-let mortgages and longer tenancies all mean that now is the perfect time to be or become a landlord.

With the age of the average first-time buyer increasing, the private rented sector continues to grow and pay dividends to those savvy landlords in the know. So what should landlords in Norfolk and Suffolk consider when buying a property?

The long-term goal of buying any property to let is for capital growth. If you are able to find a property that has a good rental return with capital growth potential, you are on to a winning formula. With interest rates set to stay low for at least the next year, if not longer, landlords will see good returns on their investments in the long run. Possible locations you may wish to consider would include Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and Thetford as these areas are incredibly popular because of their great transport links, wealth of local amenities, varied nightlife and their proximity to London.

It is a landlord’s personal preference whether they invest in houses or flats. Some landlords like to invest in apartments as they believe that there is less maintenance and upkeep. However, some apartments carry service and maintenance charges in excess of £1,000 per annum plus ground rent so you need to seriously consider this before buying as it can significantly cut into your yield.

Either way, whether you choose a flat or a house, you need to keep your prospective renter in mind. With the

average tenancy now between 18-36 months, tenants are looking for high quality rental properties to call home.

Rather than thinking about what property you would like, put yourself in the shoes of your potential tenants.

If they are students, the property needs to be easy to clean and not too luxurious but if it is a family they may prefer more of a blank canvas to make their own.

Once you have bought your property you need to consider how to let it. Will you rent it out yourself or employ a local agent? If you choose a letting agent make sure that they have an Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA) qualification. This qualification means that the letting agent understands all the processes, including clauses and contracts, surrounding lettings and is not just a glorified salesperson.

In my opinion, property is the safest investment around and gives landlords increased income security. To those would be landlords who are yet to take the leap, all I can say is “do it!” I would recommend becoming a landlord over keeping a ‘nest egg’ in the bank any day.

Aaron Pooley is the Norfolk & Suffolk Local Property Expert for Purplebricks.com, @purplebricks @APooleyPB eastlife.co.uk | 83

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HOME & GARDEN

All that GLITTERS It’s almost that time of year again, but before you wrestle with the Christmas lights, we reveal this year’s festive trends For those that love to decorate, Christmas is the perfect chance to go all out and add some festive touches to living spaces. Decorations and glitter have been appearing in stores since midOctober but now we’re finally ready to embrace this year’s styles…

Winter wonderland

We’re so pleased to see that 2015 trends are reverting back to the traditional colours of Christmas.

Gone are hideous pink trees and fluorescent baubles, instead pretty whites and snow-dusted pieces are gracing the stands. White décor is perfect for teaming with fairy lights to create the ultimate winter wonderland in your home.

Cool copper

There’s no stopping this colour.

After popping up at weddings and events throughout the summer the metallic tone has now made its way into our homes in time for Christmas. A shade that exudes warmth and elegance, its best introduced through the use of candles, ribbons and wreaths.

Black magic

Probably this year’s most extreme colour choice, black is slowly finding its way into festive decorations. If you’re not brave enough for a black tree, opt for a candelabra as a centre piece, table décor and vases. However a black tree paired with either a few colour ornaments or the copper trend will make a fantastic magical statement.

Feathers and furs

It’s not just about colour this Christmas, material is also making an impact. Feathers, fur and velvet are a great way of creating a warm and welcoming environment.

Snuggly covers, cushions and throws add a little extra comfort, while Christmassy accessories such as woodland motifs are adding feather and fur as finishing touches.

Homemade

There’s nothing better than getting crafty at Christmas, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by making your own decorations. Paper chains, button snowmen and sweet treats make perfect tree décor. It’s a great way to get the kids involved too.

Alternatively, the shops are full of traditional crafted decorations if you feel like cheating!

eastlife.co.uk | 87

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HOME & GARDEN

The Secret to Hosting a

DINNER PARTY

With the latest research showing that a communal meal with friends and family can make us healthier and happier, what could be more fun than inviting a group of friends over for good food and conversation?

Article by Danielle Harris, founder of Oak Furniture Superstore www.oakfurnituresuperstore.co.uk

It would be wonderful if we could all have the natural ease of Nigella Lawson or Jamie Oliver, but for the majority of us, the reality of cooking and socialising at the same time is rather daunting.

Preparation is key

Fear not, we have pulled some top tips together to help you host a successful dinner party.

Reduce the time you spend in the kitchen during your party by preparing as much as you can beforehand.

Setting the table, chopping vegetables, and making your dessert the day before, will mean that you have much less to do on the night of your dinner party. This will give you more valuable time to spend with your guests.

Choose your menu

Setting the atmosphere

We all know that great company and conversation is the key to a memorable dinner party, but the food that you serve is important too.

When creating your menu, ensure that you know what your guests like and keep in mind any special dietary requirements they may have. Doing a bit of research up front will ensure that there are no surprises on the night.

Stick with what you know and choose dishes that you have practised at least once, or cook a tried and tested favourite. It is more likely to be successful and cause less stress in the process.

A relaxed and inviting ambience is important when hosting a formal dinner party. Choose suitable background music, light unscented candles to create a soft light, and provide delicious nibbles and a well-stocked drinks table for when your guests arrive.

Ensure that your table is attractively dressed and that there is enough room to comfortably seat your guests.

An extending table is the perfect option if you entertain a lot, as it can accommodate extra people as and when you need it to. The most important thing to remember is that your guests want to spend time with you, so ensure that you take every opportunity to mingle, and have an enjoyable night.

eastlife.co.uk | 89

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www.hypnosbeds.com Hypnos is proud to be Carbon Neutral.

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HOME & GARDEN

WINTER BLOOMS

Kate Gould tells us how to brighten up the garden this season...

Winter is often seen as a dull season when there is not much to look at. Conversely, winter is a time to see those plants that chose to shine at this time of year in much greater detail without the buzz of the summer garden surrounding them. Winter plants are not as showy as a summer herbaceous border but they make up for it with interesting foliage and often scent.

Mahonia are stalwart, back of the border plants where in summer they provide an architectural green backdrop. In winter their racemes of yellow flowers shine in the cool light and their lily of the valley scent can be appreciated from several meters away. Mahonia are large plants and Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ is one of the best, combining well with other plants that will add interest to your winter garden it will be in flower from November to March attracting winter insects and adding to the diversity of your garden.

Other plants to try

Edgeworthia chrysantha is a much smaller shrub than the Mahonia, growing to about 1.5m in height and spread. Flowering from February to April its pretty cream and yellow flowers are also highly scented. It would work well with a lower storey of Helleborus x hybridus or an under-planting of spring flowering Crocus.

No winter garden should be complete without a Sarcococca. There are several different varieties to try all of which prefer some shade and a moist but well drained soil. Their glossy leaves act as a simple foil to summer colour but in the winter from December to March it is their tiny white flowers that you appreciate, perhaps

not for their look as they are quite tiny but for the spicy scent that they produce.

For something a little showier then Camellia sasanqua varieties are well worth growing. Although fully hardy a sheltered spot is preferred to keep the blooms looking perfect. Harsh east winds and frosts will damage the soft edge of the petals. As with all Camellia, acidic soil and a site in partial shade is required. They aren’t the fastest growers in the world but their blooms from October to December are always well worth the wait. Autumn flowering Cyclamen would be a lovely under-planting.

If flowers aren’t your thing, then there are a multitude of plants with fabulous winter stems and bark, all of which look beautiful backlit on a crisp sunny day: Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’ – as its name suggests a fiery copper set of stems.

Prunus serrula – one of the less blousy Cherries when in bloom this tree makes up for it with shiny dark burgundy bark.

Acer griseum – one of the loveliest of trees with fantastic autumn coloured leaves but also cinnamon coloured peeling bark.

Kate Gould is an award-winning garden designer with more than a decade’s hands-on experience transforming gardens of all sizes. www.kategouldgardens.com eastlife.co.uk | 93

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ARTS

THE

ARTS COLUMN Written by Collette Hoefkens

Shadows Way by Phil Greenwood RE

As the autumn evenings begin to lengthen and the daylight becomes more precious and rare, it is time to nourish your soul in preparation for the colder months ahead. With many visual feasts on offer within the region’s wonderful galleries and museums the task is a joyous one. The difficulty is fitting them all in. This month I am focusing on Norton Way Gallery, Letchworth, in Hertfordshire.

This November I will be hosting the start of Norton Way Gallery’s autumn and winter collection. Autumn’s fruitful and mellow beauty may be short lived but it is the muse of many an artist and this is greatly reflected and immortalized by the works on display this season.

From delicate pastels to bold exciting linocuts, there is a wealth of newly inspired and commanding art.

We are particularly excited with the latest works of Phil Greenwood RE. These beautiful new etchings capture the different moods of the colder months and seem to consolidate the many approaches that we have seen from Phil throughout a career spanning over 40 years. Evident is the trademark attention to detail and design alongside his ability to capture the character of the landscape and its components. ‘Shadows Way’ is particularly reminiscent of some of his older pieces and yet has a freshness and clarity that radiates from his more recent studies.

Matching Phil for clarity and radiance is the newest addition to the gallery, the highly esteemed painter, Sian Hopkinson. Already a familiar sight in London we are

Two Garlic by Sian Hopkinson

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

Sian’s first representation in the Home Counties. Like her mother, Hertfordshire favourite Anne Songhurst, Sian specialises in the still life genre. Hauntingly realist studies of lilies, garlic, porcelain and many other everyday objects are juxtaposed within a stillness that compels the viewer to stop, observe, question and admire.

Pop along on 21-22 November for the special weekend opening and enjoy a relaxing browse and glass of wine.

If you would like to attend the private views beforehand, please contact the gallery for more information.

Earlier in the month, the Letchworth Art Society will be holding its annual autumn exhibition at 14 Leys Avenue. From 1-14 November you can catch a selection of members’ work including pieces from Philip Mann, Joyce Webb and Anne Parker. The Society was founded in 1945 and is still very popular and active today. New members are always welcomed to join this enthusiastic and seriously committed group of artists. eastlife.co.uk | 95

Christmas Is Coming!

Let PhotoART GB help you to take the stress out of preparing for Christmas and the New Year!

We can help you with Christmas Card design & printing, 2016 Calendar design and printing and of course there’s our ever popular canvas wrap and framing services for those extra special christmas gifts.

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Angel gallery 17 Market Place Lavenham, CO10 9QZ Telephone: 01787 248417 www.angelgallerylavenham.co.uk philipandwendy@angelgallery.co.uk A 15th century wool merchant’s residence housing exhibitions by local and national artists, including collections of the works of Leslie Gibson,filler_Layout Mary Wild and pottery by 15:05 Page 1 events 1 21/02/2012 John Leach.

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ARTS

ARTS NEWS

Ways With Words Literature Festival in Southwold

Ways With Words Literature Festival runs from 5-9 November and has the usual eclectic mix of fantastic speakers. Topics such as writing fiction, trees, reality television and the Holocaust will be covered.

Tickets for all events (except the literary dinner) are £12. Most events take place in St Edmund’s Church Hall in Southwold except for Monday 9 November when Shirley Williams will close the festival in St Edmund’s Church, Southwold at 10.30am. Baroness Williams sits as a Liberal Democrat in the House of Lords and will talk about the Liberal Democrats severe defeat in the General Election in May and the political scene today.

Tel: 01803 867 373 | www.wayswithwords.co.uk

World War 1 love story heads to Norwich

A controversial play from the Edinburgh Fringe is coming to Norwich Arts Centre on 10 November as part of an extensive national tour.

The Flood by Badac Theatre Company was originally created in 2014 to mark the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War, described at the time as ‘the war to end all wars’. This confrontational, intense yet deeply moving drama highlights the devastating effects of the insanity of war on an intimate relationship. Performed by writer/director Steve Lambert and Austrian actor Susanne Gschwendtner it’s an uncompromising portrayal of the unspeakable horror wrought on humanity by wars past, present and, God forbid, future. www.badactheatre.com

Trio by Ann Miles

Mixed Voice to bring a new kind of Christmas magic to Norwich!

Mixed Voice will be presenting a brand new Christmas spectacle at OPEN, Norwich from 21 – 22 December.

Inspired by the classic Christmas family movie, ‘Home Alone’, Mixed Voice will take you on a musical journey through the Christmas songbook.

Tickets £18, use voucher code ‘Rudolph’ before 10 December for 15% off.

Tel: 01603 628319 | www.mixedvoice.co.uk

Return of Foxton’s Art Exhibition

The award-winning Foxton’s Art Exhibition returns 13 - 15 November with exhibits from a variety of talented, local artists. This year’s exhibtiion work is presented in a variety of medias including ceramics, wood, glass and textiles, plus oils, pastels, watercolour, ink, photography and jewellery. There is something to suit all tastes and pockets and all proceeds from the event support Foxton Primary School. www.foxtonart.org

eastlife.co.uk | 97

CROMWELL HOUSE NURSING HOME 'Stunning Cromwell House Nursing Home, birthplace of Lord Protector, Oliver Cromwell is set within lovely grounds within the town of Huntingdon, right on the High Street with free parking available and great transport links.

With a personalised approach to Care, the Home offers EAST ANGLIA’S PREMIUM CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR

both Nursing and Residential Dementia settings for those looking for a high quality placement.

Every bedroom has full en suite facilities and five spacious lounges are available.

With first class care, excellent food and a full range of activities Cromwell House may well be your 'Home of Choice'.

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FRIDAY 27TH NOVEMBER 5.30 - 8.30PM SATURDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 10.00AM - 5.00PM SUNDAY 29TH NOVEMBER 10.00AM - 4.00PM ADMISSION TICKET £5 WWW.PRESENTSGALORE.ORG Wendy Milbank: wendy.milbank@gmail.com Macmillan Cancer Support receives all entrance money and benefits from everything you buy with 10% of takings.

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HEALTH

UNDER

PRESSURE! De-stress yourself on National Stress Awareness Day, 4 November We are stressed more than ever. Balancing work, social and home lives is making 54% of Brits increasingly anxious and stressed, according to a survey*. With so much to handle in every day life, we look at ways to help you stop, breathe and de-stress…

Keep your sugar levels steady

“Maintaining steady blood sugar levels is key to stabilizing mood. Ensure you have a small meal every 2-3 hours that contains protein (eat breakfast, lunch and dinner plus a snack mid morning and one mid afternoon). As the blood sugar steadies, so will the mood swings – reduced adrenaline levels will automatically make you feel happier and calmer inside,” says Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading nutritionist, an author of The Nutritional Health Handbook for Women (www.marilynglenville.com).

“Chose your snacks wisely – soybeans, dark chocolate, bananas and avocado are a good source of magnesium, which helps with efficient energy production while also helping to calm the nervous system. Whole-grain carbs, such as rye crisp breads, help regulate levels of serotonin, the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter that helps us remain calm,” adds Shona Wilkinson, Head Nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com.

Pop a ‘chill pill’

Certain nutrients can be very helpful in reducing stress levels. “Go for the B vitamins, especially B5 for stress relief and energy, magnesium (nature’s tranquiliser) for relaxation and sleep, chromium for blood sugar balance, L-theanine for reducing anxiety and finally Siberian Ginseng, which acts as a tonic to the adrenal glands,” adds Dr Glenville.

Ditch your coffee

“Caffeine is a stimulant, which increases adrenaline levels in our body – the same hormone you are looking to reduce, when stressed. So drinking coffee is like adding fuel to the fire, it accelerates our body’s response

to stress and prepares it to action, even though, you might only be sitting at your desk,” explains Shona.

LOL

Having a laugh is one of the best remedies for stress – it triggers healthy changes in our body.

Runners High

Have you ever experienced a state of euphoria after a long run or a workout session? Again, it’s all about endorphins. “A workout places stress on your body, which activates your sympathetic nervous system by increasing levels of certain hormones such as epinephrine, norepinephrine and cortisol. These hormones increase heart rate and blood pressure, stimulate energy breakdown and inhibit immune function. To protect our body, our brain releases endorphins to fight that stress, giving us that good feeling,” explains Cassandra Barns, a nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com. *home.bt.com/lifestyle/familyhome/wellbeing/half-of-adults-see-stresslevels-up

DOWNLOAD THE APP TO read why stress affects us more than ever!

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Rose Cottage provides a quality care service for people who want an attractive residential setting offering round the clock support.

Our resident Doctor uses Juvéderm fillers & wrinkle relaxing injections to treat the following:

Set in a rural location in the picturesque village of Broughton, with its beautiful gardens and spacious accommodation, Rose Cottage provides a tranquil home for anyone looking for care in their later years.

• Wrinkles around eyes & forehead

Enjoy the home cooked food, the events and activities, or just the quiet of your own room.

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Respite Care is bookable throughout the year for people who need short- term care.

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HEALTH

HERE’S TO A healthy Christmas Janey Lee Grace, one of the UK’s leading spokesperson for the Organic and Natural Health world, shares her tips for staying healthy during the festive season So is it possible that the words healthy and Christmas can go together? Yes it’s all about preparation! It’s obvious that over the festive season we are all going to want to indulge but here’s a few easy tweaks you can make to ensure that at least part of your festive preparations are ‘imperfectly natural’.

For starters – think about getting ‘party season ready’ save money and time with a natural home spa, it can be as easy as bringing in natural soy wax candles and the gorgeous aromatherapy bath oils – see the gorgeous range from Zephorum (www.zephorium.com).

Hair removal isn’t the most glamourous of topics but it can be the most toxic! Sort it out ahead of donning your party wear with SugarStrip ease (www.sugarstripease. com) works brilliantly (not painful!) and totally natural – seriously - none of that nightmare smell!

When it comes to makeup you can keep it one hundred per cent natural – check out the amazing makeup from Natorigin – great eye makeup fine for sensitive eyes (if you know you are prone to a weep at the office party!) and great lippys. www.natorigin.co.uk I highly recommend the Nail Enchantment law of attraction range of polishes which each have a kooky name and each contains a tiny Herkimer diamond – magic at your fingertips. www.authenticmermaid.com Your party season won’t feel complete without great hair and I highly recommend the gorgeous organic products from TabithaJamesKraan. I love the scented hair oil and the organic hair perfume doubles as a great fragrance (www.tabithajameskraan.com).

Janey Lee Grace is the author of Look Great Naturally without ditching the lipstick ( Hay House). www.imperfectlynatural.com

Want to go DIY ?

Here are just a few of my Top DIY Recipes’ to get you started: Refresh your skin before a party with a Toner or Skin Spritzer Toners will remove any make-up traces, refresh the skin and work as an astringent to balance the skin’s own pH level. For normal or combination skin, try fresh cucumber juice. Peel half a cucumber, juice and immediately apply to your skin.

To revitalise after a late night…

Christmas Anti-ageing Oil with Frankincense – 50 ml Rosehip oil mixed with 50 ml Sweet Almond oil – 2 drops Lavender oil – 2 drops Rose oil – 1 drop Frankincense oil Apply a fine layer to clean skin, works great as a night time moisturiser.

If you’ve been doing lots of kissing under the mistletoe – 1 tablespoon Shea Butter – 1 teaspoon Honey Melt the Shea butter in a bowl over hot water. Stir in a tiny amount of honey or wax.

Put it into a clean 15-ml pot, leave it to cool and put in the fridge to set. You can also add pure essential oils to lip balms. 1 drop of peppermint or spearmint tastes great and has antiseptic properties. eastlife.co.uk | 101

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To book your Festive One Night Special and to claim your exclusive East Life Magazine discount call 0333 3207 405 and quote ‘eAsT liFe’ Potters Resort, Coast Road, Hopton-on-Sea, Norfolk, NR31 9BX *Drinks inclusive from 6pm until close of bars. Exclusions apply. ‘EAST LIFE’ must be quoted at time of booking. Applicable One Night Specials between 29th November and 22nd December 2015 only. +Break does not include our christmas show. Full booking terms and conditions apply. Prices based on Standard Bungalow accommodation, supplements apply. New bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to promotional rate availability. Calls are charged at national rate and in many cases count towards inclusive minutes on landline and mobile contracts.

NORFOLK

What’s on in

Norfolk

THEATRE & SHOWS 2-Nov Adam Long’s Dickens Abridged An absurdly talented cast of four bring hundreds of the great author’s best-loved characters to life in a show crammed full of madcap Dickensian mayhem. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 4-7 Nov Into the Woods A tale about fairytale characters and their particular desires - Cinderella wants to go to the festival, the Sisters want to marry a prince, the Prince wants to find his love, Jack wants to be rich, the Baker’s wife wants a son, the Wolf wants Little Red Riding Hood - and the Witch she wants her youth. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk

7-Nov The Rockabellas ‘The Rockabellas’ combine stunning close harmony vocals with bespoke big band arrangements, cute choreography and top to toe pin up couture. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 10-Nov One Man Breaking Bad Sixty Awesome Episodes. One Awesome Show.

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market, Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 10-14 Nov Handbagged Two enduring icons born in the same year. One destined to rule, the other elected to lead. But when the stiff upper lip softened and the gloves came off, which one had the upper hand?

Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 12-Nov One Man Breaking Bad A rip roaring ride through the greatest television show ever made. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 17-Nov Searching For Santa A Christmas show for all ages, from the multi award-winning ‘Lavender Hill Mob Theatre Company’, an inclusive organisation based in King’s Lynn. Join them on a magical journey to find Santa - filled with laughs and a few tears along the way. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 19-28 Nov Star Quality In his wickedly funny final play, Noel Coward takes us behind the scenes of a new West End production. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns

EDITOR’S CHOICE

and hilarious parody of the disco scene.

The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193. www.granarytheatre.co.uk 21-Nov Josh Widdicombe: What Do I Do Now Josh Widdicombe, that guy from the TV comedy shows with the curly hair, is back on the road with a brand new tour. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

So much choice In the Arts Lounge Gallery The Christmas Show commences on the 27 October – 24 November.

Original paintings, glass art, ceramics, bronze/resin sculptures, fused glass, silver jewellery and other gifts ideal for Christmas and beyond – all by local artisans.The Gallery is pleased to host Jonathan Deer who is holding silver jewellery workshops in the studio above the gallery. There will also be Mosaic workshops on the 20 and 30 January.

Oil/acrylic art lessons take place every week, acrylic mixed media workshoptakes place on the 14 November and watercolour workshops in 2016.

Come and be inspired, visit this stunning gallery in the centre of this busy market town.

Market Place, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 7AB. Tel: 01760 723624 www.theartslounge.co.uk email: theartsloungeuk@gmail.com Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR . 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 19-21 Nov And Evermore Shall Be This humorous murder mystery explores the events surrounding a murder that took place four years previously. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 19-21 Nov The Wizard Of Oz Dusmagrik Younfs Peoples Theatre Company are very pleased to return to this theatre to present the very popular Wizard of Oz. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 www.gorlestonpavilion.co.uk 20-Nov Bouncers Bursting with imagination and wit and presented by just four actors, Bouncers is an outrageous

24-28 Nov The Nutcracker Share in Clara’s adventures as she is swept away by her Nutcracker Prince into a magical winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes and the famous Sugar Plum Fairy. Norwich Theatre Royal Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 24 Nov - 6 Dec What the Ladybird Heard Based on the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson & Lydia Monks. Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 26-Nov Branagh Theatre Live!: The Winter’s Tale Kenneth Branagh gathers together a remarkable company of actors including Judi Dench for this, the first in a season of plays. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800. www.westacretheatre.com 28-Nov Spread a Little Happiness An inimitable performer of rarely heard British theatre songs, Adrian Wright celebrates the work of Vivian Ellis, one of the greatest British composers of light music such as Bless the Bride, “Coronation Scot” and a host of theatrical delights. The Granary Theatre, Staithe Street Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193 www.granarytheatre.co.uk 28-Nov A Walk in the Woods Travel writer Bill Bryson (Robert Redford) takes a long-lost old friend (Nick Nolte) for a hike along the Appalachian Trail. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com MUSIC 6-Nov The Proclaimers They have carved a niche for themselves where pop, folk, new wave and punk collide as the emotional honesty, political fire, wit and singalong raucousness of their songs and their extensive touring has enlightened and entertained fans new and old. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange,

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NORFOLK Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW .

01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 6-7 Nov Heros The production is to a tribute to the men and women who served their King and Country in the Great War and World War Two. The programme will be a mixture of song and dance - with a sprinkling of poetry - readings and comedy. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens , Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832. www.gorlestonpavilion.co.uk 11-Nov The Good Old Days The multi award winning star makes a special return to the UK, and will sing live onstage many of her million selling chart hit songs, including All Kinds Of Everything, Please Tell Him and Its’s Gonna Be A Cold Cold Christmas. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn , PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 13-Nov That’ll Be The Day The UK’s most popular Rock ‘n’ Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s and 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy!

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 14-Nov 100 Years of Jazz in 99 Minutes The only history of jazz from its birth to the present day - in 99 hilarious, musically brilliant, historically fascinating minutes. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 14-Nov New Jersey Jukebox Discover how four New Jersey boys from the wrong side of the tracks invented their own sound - were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and sold 100 million records worldwide. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832. www.gorlestonpavilion.co.uk 18-28 Nov Noel Coward John Knowles brings the music and magic of Sir Noel Coward to the Maddermarket Theatre’s Redwell Bar with his show featuring the songs and writings of ‘the Master’.Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 19-Nov Elkie Brooks - Live In Concert Elkie Brooks will be celebrating her 70th birthday with a UK tour. Quite simply one of the most successful and popular singers the UK has ever produced. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 20-Nov KLFM Ultimate Christmas Party With live music and the KL.FM DJ’s playing all your favourite party and Christmas classics, get ready to celebrate Christmas in style. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place,

King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 21-Nov A Salute to the 1970s Christmas Special A fantastic show guaranteed to bring back the memories of those glam, 70’s disco dancing nights. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 21-Nov T*Rextasy T.Rextasy have now been performing around the world for over 20 years, a career that ironically out lives Marc’s very own T.Rex. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 21-Nov The Sounds of Simon - a tribute to Simon and Garfunkel Lose yourself in nostalgia and enjoy all the hits that established Paul Simon as one of the most successful songwriters of all time. Garboldisham Village Hall, Church Rd, Garboldisham IP22 2SE. 07810 312628. www.soundsofsimon.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 3 Oct - 3 Jan Build Your Own: Tools for Sharing This Crafts Council and FACT exhibition, in association with Norfolk Museums Service, will explore how digital technologies come together with traditional processes of production to create new ways of working, sharing and collaborating. Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, CastleHill, Norwich, NR1 3JU. 01603 493649. www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk 1-2 Nov Beastly Machines An exhibition of humorous and interactive kinetic sculptures by Johnny White. Influenced by current affairs, media stories and plays on words, his sculptures portray a host of animals and mythical creatures. Time & Tide, Blackfriars’ Rd, Great Yarmouth, NR30 3BX. 01493 743930. www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk 4-6 Nov Paul Foot – A Retrospective Accompanying Paul Foot’s three night run at Norwich Arts Centre he will be presenting an exhibition of paintings and limited edition stills.

Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 7 Nov - 2 Dec Christmas Exhibition Part One A wonderful selection of artworks with Christmas in mind, featuring wooden figure sculpture

by Lynn Muir. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 www.birchamgallery.co.uk 10-Nov Spinning Ancient House Museum & Diss Guild of Spinners, Dyers & Weavers demonstration. Come and see the spinning wheels in action, find out how wool was traditionally turned into yarn and have a go using our woolly winders. Ancient House, White Hart Street Thetford, IP24 1AA. 01842 752599. www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk

27-Nov Exhibiton Tour with Viktor Wynd Join artist and collector Viktor Wynd, proprietor of The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, for a tour and discover the wonderful world of collecting! The Sainsbury Centre, for Visual Arts, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 593199. www.scva.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 4-Nov Christmas Card Making Workshop As well as coming away with two finished designs, you’ll learn the basics of making greetings cards and get inspiration to go on and create all the cards you’ll need for Christmas.£15 including materials Upstairs Studio, Designermakers@21, 21 St. Nicholas Street, Diss 5-6 Nov Feast on the Street Experience some new taste sensations. The traders change regularly so there’s always something new to try. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. www.feastonthestreet.co.uk 14-Nov Fleamarket With an uninterrupted run of over 35 years the Fleamarket attracts buyers and browsers of all ages. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

20-Nov Vintage & Retro Sale Rail A chance to purchase vintage and retro items with all prices under £50. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 28-Nov St Nicholas Winter Fayre Cobbs and Norfolk House yards will host stallholders, musicians, food and of course all of the enticing independent shops in the Heritage Triangle will be open. From 3pm there will be stalls, hot food and live entertainment in the Market Square including Purple Jimi (Hendrix Tribute) and Busking for Breakfast for the Christmas Lights ‘Switch On’ celebrations. The Lights will be switched on at 6pm. Diss Heritage Triangle, Diss . www.heritagetriangle.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 8-Nov Blakeney Antique Fair Maximum 24 Tables. Well attended throughout the year. Free parking, Refreshments. Blakeney Village Hall, Blakeney, NR25 7NQ. 01263 713120 17-Nov Antiques & Collectors Fair Dealers in glass, porcelain, ceramics, books, furniture and much more. Community Hall Garden Street, Cromer, NR27 9HH. 07501 782821 25-Nov Dunston Hall Antiques Fair Around 55 tables of good quality antiques.

Items offered for sale pre date 1940 ensuring a quality event. Dunston Hall Hotel.Road, Norwich, NR14 8PQ. 07596 436260 29-Nov Hingham Antique & Collectors Fair 50 stands offering a wide range furniture, books, jewellery and collectables. Open 10am-4pm.

Admission £1. The Sports Centre, Watton Road, Hingham, NR9 4HB. 0777 618 5515

eastlife.co.uk | 105

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AREA FOCUS

CHRISTMAS IN

NORWICH

The beautiful city of Norwich is a spectacular place to be in the lead up to Christmas. With its array of independent boutiques along the Lanes, galleries, markets and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to soak up the festive spirit.

This season there’s plenty to be enjoyed in the city and beyond. Get your diaries ready as we list our top picks from concerts and carols to festive food and puppets!

Thursford Christmas Spectacular

Thursford, Fakenham, NR21 0AS 11 November - 23 December 2pm & 7pm Experience the popular blend of Christmas entertainment, with dazzling dancers, beautiful costumes, Christmas songs, carols, including outstanding music and singing from a cast of over one hundred in this spectacular show.

01328 878477 | www.thursford.com Magical Christmas Market

The Great Hospital, 14 November, 10am-3pm A celebration of all things Norfolk – from chutney to chopping boards, craft beer to cordial! It’s free entry for a most wonderful Christmas Market, featuring local food and artisan craft stands in St Helen’s Square.

There will be a Norfolk drink keller organised by beer

sommerlier Cheryl Cade in the Refectory, as well as workshops and stands in the Birkbeck Hall with gluten-free demonstrations by Master Chef, Steve Thorpe, Sara’s Kitchen and Norfolk Gluten Free. www.visitnorwich.co.uk/whats-happening/event/ magical-christmas-marketCountdown to Christmas

The Forum, City Hall, Jarrolds, 19 November, from 6pm The Norwich Christmas Lights Switch-On is one of the biggest nights on the city’s calendar. Wrap up warm and come out for some music, entertainment, fireworks and a sparkling light show. The event is organised by Norwich City Council who, this year, have lined up some great acts and performances on the streets and outside City Hall and The Forum. Father Christmas will be travelling around on his sleigh followed by a parade of twinkling lanterns. There will be gospel singers, acrobats, a buxom pair of traditional pantomime dames and dancers. All the fun starts at 6pm and the lights go on across the city at 7pm, accompanied by some spectacular pyrotechnics from City Hall and Jarrold Store.

Outside The Forum there will be hot food and entertainment, with craft markets inside open until late. Also, don’t miss a new show in The Forum’s Gallery, The History of Panto. eastlife.co.uk | 107

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The Assembly House Christmas Fair

The Assembly House, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RQ 28 - 29 November, 10am to 5pm on Saturday, and 11am to 4pm on Sunday The Assembly House Christmas Fair is a great place for Christmas presents and stocking fillers. This popular annual event features around 75 stalls, with everything from jewellery, woodcraft, glassware and textiles to Christmas decorations and edible treats. Free entry.

01603 626402 | www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk Norwich Christmas Tree Festival

St Peter Mancroft Church, Chantry Road, NR2 1QZ 3 – 7 December, free entry - charitable donations welcome Festival Viewing Times: Thu 10pm – 8pm; Fri, Sat and Mon 10pm – 6pm; Sun – to be advised St Peter Mancroft celebrates Christmas with a number of festive events and musical concerts. This year following the success of the first Christmas Tree Festival in December 2014 at St Peter Mancroft Church the Rotary Club of Norwich St Edmund will be organizing the second Christmas Tree Festival.

Norwich Global Village Christmas Market

The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF 4 - 5 December, 10am-5.30pm This market offers crafts and gifts from different corners of the globe, warming world cuisine, and mulled wine! Father Christmas, performers from Hocus Pocus Theatre and the Norwich Community Choir will be visiting on Saturday. This is a free event, although tickets will be needed for the two storytelling sessions.

There is no charge for the storytelling tickets. www.visitnorwich.co.uk

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A Weekend of ‘Festive Cheer’ at Woodforde’s

Woodforde’s Brewery, Woodbastwick, NR13 6SW 5 - 6 December (Saturday 9-5pm, Sunday 10-4pm) In preparation for the festive period, Woodforde’s Norfolk Ales will be offering the opportunity for members of the public to look behind-the-scenes as it opens its brewery doors for a weekend of beer tastings, brewery tours and Christmas gift inspiration from local food and drink producers. A marquee set in the brewery’s yard will be packed with Christmas market stalls showcasing some of the region’s finest produce from wines and cheeses, to chutneys and breads. Free to attend.

The Locrian Ensemble: Carols By Candlelight

7 December 2015, 7.30pm, Norwich Playhouse In lavish period costume, and in front of an evocative candlelit setting, these charismatic performers perform favourites including carols, string medleys of familiar Christmas tunes and seasonal surprises. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk It’s Beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Norwich Playhouse, 8 - 9 December 2015, 7.30pm Following on from their sell-out success The Michael Bublé Christmas Songbook, popular vocalist Joe Ringer and his orchestra return to the Norwich Playhouse with their brand new show, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 109

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE

What’s on in

Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 2-7 Nov Bad Jews A Manhattan apartment becomes the setting for a viciously hilarious brawl over family, faith and legacy as the contenders set at each other’s throats on the night after the funeral.

Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE

10-14 Nov Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street This delightfully macabre tale descends into a cut-throat world of cannibalism, caged birds, meat pies, mad beggars and deceit as Todd restarts his career as a barber, declaring war on all mankind. ADC Theatre, Park Street Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com

3-Nov Swan Lake The world-renowned Moscow Ballet La Classique demonstrate their continued quality of dance and performances in a dramatic production of this timeless favourite set to Tchaikovsky’s superb score. The Cresset Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 3-4 Nov Tartuffe Theatrical Niche’s hysterical new adaptation of Moliere’s famous work puts physical comedy centre stage in this dynamic production.

Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 4-7 Nov One flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest A charming rogue who contrives to serve a short sentence in an airy mental institution.

Quickly, he takes over the yard and accomplishes what the medical profession has been unable to do for twelve years; he makes a presumed deaf and dumb Indian talk. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 4-7 Nov Living Quarters Four twenty-somethings wake up after a night out with killer hangovers and no memory of what happened the night before. They wake up, make breakfast and try to put the previous night behind them, only to have a rude reminder of it fall in front of them. ADC Theatre, Park Street Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 5-Nov Patrick Kielty: Help Patrick Kielty returns to his stand up roots with a brand new show. But he can’t do it on his own - he needs your help. The Junction, Clifton Way Cambridge, CB1 7GX, 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 5-7 Nov One Man,Two Guvnors The style of the play reflects the tradition of Georgian theatre. This will be a treat and opportunity to enjoy a style of theatre in a theatre from the period! Angels Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 474447. www.anglestheatre.co.uk

adaptation of the award winning picture book, The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

HANDEL’S MESSIAH THE PETERBOROUGH CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT Friday 18 December at 7.30pm Handel’s much-loved oratorio will be performed by Peterborough Cathedral Choir, Youth Choir and Festival Chorus with the period instrument ensemble, Saraband Consort, directed by Steven Grahl.

Tickets £25, £20, £15 & £10 (half-price for U18s) Tel: 01832 274734 www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

7-Nov Alfie Moore: The Naked Stun ‘The Naked Stun’ is based on the true story of his dogged determination to track down a ‘serial flasher’. A fast-paced show that twists and turns, exposing the seedier side of crime investigation, before reaching a shocking conclusion. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 8-Nov Mike Harding Mike Harding is back on the road for a short theatre tour to mark the publication of his autobiography, The Adventures of the Crumpsall Kid. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF, 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 10-15 Nov The Gruffalo Don’t miss Tall Stories’ hit musical stage

11-Nov Disco Pigs ‘Disco Pigs’ is a furious, funny and violent dash through a lifelong friendship at the moment of its savage destruction. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 13-14 Nov Around the World in a 1000 Years A musical journey through the last ten centuries which showcases different periods of history.

Angels Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 474447. www.anglestheatre.co.uk 14-Nov The Snow Queen This spectacular production follows the story of Gerda and her quest to find her friend Kay, whom the Snow Queen has placed under an evil spell. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 14-Nov Secret Affair Call them Mod Revival, New Wave, Soul, Pop, Secret Affair are each of these and all of these!

The Junction , Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 15-Nov The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness!

Hear the story of the first Christmas Tree and even explore some festive science. Key Theatre Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 15-Nov A Christmas Carol Renowned actor Clive Francis brings one of Britain’s favourite Christmas tales to life, for one night only. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 17-21 Nov Black Coffee The only play ever to feature Hercule Poirot, it

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE is guaranteed to appeal to audiences with the usual Christie mix of mystery, suspense, foul play and red herrings. Angels Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 474447. www.anglestheatre.co.uk 21-Nov A Christmas Carol Hobgoblin Comedy Award finalists and stand up veterans the Three Half Pints bring you an anarchic evening of barely controlled comedy chaos, packed with all the gags, songs, pratfalls and audience interaction that Dickens always meant to put in. Mumford Theatre, East Road Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 22-Nov Sarah Millican: Outsider In the past when you put Sarah Millican outside, she asked things like: ‘Why? Where is the taxi? Do I need a cardie?’ and said things like: ‘There’ll be wasps. I’ve nothing to sit on.

Is that poo? Can we go home?’ But things have changed. Now she has outside slippers. She can tell a chaffinch from a tit (hey). But she still can’t tell if it’s an owl or her husband’s asthma.

The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough PE3 8DX. 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 24-28 Nov Sister Act This fabulous, family-friendly, feel-good show is packed with songs inspired by motown, funk, soul and disco. Cambridge Arts Theatre , St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 25 Nov - 5 Dec Robin Hood This year’s glitziest, jazziest, sparkliest, socialist-est show of all, starring the cream of Cambridge’s comedy and musical worlds in the all-singing, all-dancing, CUADC/Footlights Pantomime: Robin Hood! ADC Theatre Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 30-Nov The Great Gatsby Immersing you in the decadence of America’s ‘Jazz Age’, The Great Gatsby is brought to life in this sizzling new stage adaptation from nationally acclaimed Blackeyed Theatre. Mumford Theatre, East Road , Cambridge, CB1 1PT 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk

Together in Concert Together in Concert 2015 sees two of Ireland’s finest and best loved entertainers take to the stage together. The Cresset, Bretton Centre Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 12-Nov East Angles Brass Band Featuring members of popular local bands including Soft Tone Needles, Groove Cartel, Vex and Tallawah, East Angles play a mixture of original compositions, traditional ‘NOLA’ tunes and a select few pop songs given a brassy twist. Angels Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 474447 www.anglestheatre.co.uk 13-Nov Dreaming of Kate A rare opportunity for the audience to see Kate Bush’s songs brought to life in a show with the attention to detail her music so deserves.

Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 13-Nov Opera Gala This evening of contrasting opera excerpts, comic and tragic, uses minimal props and costume – focusing on the soloists including well-known local singers, professional and semiprofessional. Key Theatre, Embankment Road Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 14-Nov The Falcon Ensemble The Falcon Ensemble under the baton of conductor Alan Bowman will be joined by the supremely talented young pianist Naomi Woo, to present a double bill of romantic masterpieces. West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 01223 335184 www.westroad.org 19-21 Nov St Swithuns The story concerns the girls and boys of ST Swithuns, a school populated by very unruly young people. The Cresset, Bretton Centre Peterborough. PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk

23-Nov Beyond The Barricade Recreating original West End/Broadway musiMUSIC cal hit songs with amazing authenticity, Beyond 6-Nov Toyah Wilcox - Up Close and the Barricade features a cast of past principal Personal performers from the West End production of Lively unplugged/storytellers style gig, it will Les Miserables. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, include Toyah performing an acoustic set of Peterborough, PE3 8DX.. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk her loved hit singles and classic songs, alongside recalling stories from her colourful, thirty-five year career. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, 26-Nov Scouting For Girls Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 Scouting For Girls return with new album Still www.cresset.co.uk Thinking About You. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 8-Nov Andy McKee www.junction.co.uk Andy McKee is among the world’s finest acoustic guitarists, and his crossover success to over ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 150 million YouTube viewers underscores his 1-29 Nov Power and Resistance in pre and emergence as one of today’s most unique and early Roman Italy influential artists. The Junction, Clifton Way, A display exploring how Greek colonies Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 changed the life and languages of the native www.junction.co.uk peoples of ancient Italy. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street , CB2 1RB. 01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 12-Nov Dominic Kirwan & Mary Duff:

8-Nov The Uncanny Valley A group exhibition exploring the phenomenon of the uncanny valley through computer generated imagery, video, photography and sculpture. Wysing Arts Centre, Fox Road Cambridge, CB23 2TX. 01954 718881 www.wysingartscentre.org 29 Nov - 31 Dec Christmas Cracker 2015 Byard Art’s Christmas Cracker exhibition offers a constantly changing display of contemporary art work, with pieces ranging from original paintings and jewellery to ceramics, sculpture and glass. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646. www.byardart.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 5-Nov Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival A Revival of Tradition A description of the history of the Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival, from humble beginnings in 1980 to an internationally acclaimed event.

Engage in the Afternoon is a club for people aged over 50. Huntingdon Library, Princes Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3PA

6-Nov Floristry workshop by Dutch floral designer Alice Calcasola-van An opportunity for people to create a their own beautiful winter floral design under Alice’s expert eye. All materials are provided and the ticket price includes a delicious cream tea.

Hotel Felix, Whitehouse Lane, Cambridge CB3 OLX. 01223 277977. www.hotelfelix.co.uk 7-Nov Skylark Fireworks Spectacular Skylark Garden Centre is proud to present a Fireworks to Music Spectacular featuring East Anglia’s Biggest bonfire. Watch a dazzling display of fireworks light up the night sky by the UK’s leading firework display company, Kimbolton Fireworks. Skylark Garden Centre, Manea Road, March, PE15 0PE 13-14 Nov Ely Cathedral Food and Gift Fair This festive annual event is a great event to start to get you into the Christmas spirit. Taking place at the beautiful Ely Cathedral it is great for all the family. Come along and begin your Christmas shopping in style. Ely Cathedral, The College, Ely. CB7 4DL. 01223 205192 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES

7-8 Nov Holmewood Hall (Peterborough) Antiques, Collectors & Vintage Weekend An imposing country house with a myriad of rooms. Stallholders will fill the many rooms and hallway with a wide & exciting variety of items to suit most tastes & budgets. Holmewood Hall, Church Street, Peterborough, PE7 3BZ. 07772 349431 21-22 Nov Cambridgeshire’s Hinchingbrooke House Antiques Fair Quality antiques fair set in this beautiful Tudor manor house. 40 + dealers in fine antique furniture, pictures, silver, jewellery, clocks, ceramics and much more. open 10am - 4pm. Admission £3. Hinchingbrooke House, Brampton Rd, Huntingdon, PE29 3BN. 01379 586134

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CHRISTMAS CHEER IN

CAMBS Read our guide to Christmas in the county Home to beautiful cities such as Cambridge, Ely and Peterborough, plus market towns and villages, Cambridgeshire offers plenty to see and do during the Christmas period. To ensure you don’t miss out, we’ve listed our top things to do, places to visit and events to attend…

Ely Set to be bigger and better than previous years, Ely will flick the switch on its Christmas lights on 27 November at 6.45pm in the Market Square. The fun begins at 4pm as crowds gather to watch live entertainment, browse craft and gift stalls and sample treats from new food vendors.

Christmas Lights

Cambridge The switching on of the Christmas lights is a great way to begin your Christmas and where better to watch the big tree light up than in the beautiful historic city of Cambridge? Not content with just one day, the Big Switch On takes place over the weekend of 14-15 November.

This year Cambridge will be host to a weekend of activities starting at The Grafton where the fun begins Saturday 14 November from 2pm with a special appearance from everyone’s favourite, Peppa Pig. Heart FM will be there to entertain the crowds until the lights are switched on at 4pm.

The fun continues on Sunday where you will find an array of circus performers throughout the city, activities at Lion Yard, Grand Arcade and the main event taking place in the Market Square. With entertainment from midday the Market Square will include choirs, dance troupes, hula hoop demonstration and a special performance from the Corn Exchanges Christmas Show, Horrible Christmas.

Heart FM take over the stage to welcome this year’s special guests to flick that all important switch, which will be X Factor hopefuls and local girl band PYT. For more information visit www.cambridgebid.co.uk or twitter @cambridgebid

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During the evening Snow White, prince charming the seven dwarfs and a witch will be coming through Ely in a parade headed by a black horse drawn carriage – its an event not to be missed!

Shopping

Christmas is a time to splurge. Whether you’re looking for a special outfit for yourself or still have lots of gifts to buy, Cambridgeshire’s cities offer plenty of inspiration.

As well as high street and designer brands, Cambridge is renowned for its delightful mix of independent boutiques and market – a great place to buy one off gifts, vintage treasure and foodie treats. Start your shopping trip with a stroll down Rose Crescent and Trinity Street, Magdalene Street, Bridge Street and King Street to discover some excellent independent shops and chic cafes.

If you’re taking in the sights of Peterborough this Christmas, stop by the Rivergate Shopping Centre.

Probably the least known shopping centre in Peterborough, located on Bridge Street next to the River Nene it boasts 25 retail stores. On foot it’s five minutes from Cathedral Square and Queensgate in the city centre.

The Rivergate Centre has an eclectic collection of clothes, furniture and discount stores plus a selection of places to eat. It is a small, vibrant shopping centre, which offers a lot to visitors all undercover on one level.

AREA FOCUS

Adjacent to Asda and George it has something to offer everyone no matter what you are looking for. Check out where you plan to shop beforehand by visiting www.rivergate-centre.co.uk Things to do

Christmas is a magical time of year, and hours can be spent simply wandering the streets taking in the sights of the historic cities. If Cambridge is your chosen city of choice, there’s no better way to see its architecture than by a punt along the River Cam. Although the weather may be a little chilly, a punt is the perfect excuse to wrap up warm, snuggle under a blanket and listen to the stories of Cambridge perhaps even with a glass of something mulled!

If a punt takes your fancy this Christmas, try Camboats, one of Cambridge’s premier narrowboat operators, which offers public and private tours. Sit back and relax as you soak up the history, spot local wildlife and enjoy the river. Camboat tours are recommended for both local and tourists and suitable for all ages. www.camboats.co.uk

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The Crown House Hotel Christmas Fayre

3 course meal £29.95 per adult, £19.95 per child To include tea, coffee, crackers & mince pies

Christmas Day Menu

3 course meal £68.75 per adult, children £35.00 Available 12.30-3.00PM

For further information email: reservations@crownhousehotel.com Crown House • Great Chesterfield • Saffron Walden • Essex • CB10 1NY

Tel: 01799 530515

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ESSEX

What’s on in

Essex

THEATRE & SHOWS 2-Nov The Nutcracker A magical festive tale of The Nutcracker.

Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk

EDITOR’S CHOICE

3-7 Nov 13 – A New Musical A grown-up story about growing up! Brentwood Theatre, 15 Shenfield Road, Brenwtood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305. www.brentwood-theatre.co.uk 3-Nov Busybody Tidying up one evening Mrs Piper comes across a dead body. She calls the police and this sets off a chain of events that becomes more and more bizarre. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 4-Nov The Only Way Is Downton This is Downton Abbey as you’ve never seen it before! Direct from a West End run and American tour, Luke Kempner’s tour-de-force impressions comedy returns to the UK, in an updated version featuring new material. This is essential viewing ahead of the final series of the beloved TV drama. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 5-21 Nov Bully Boy Private Edward Clark is every inch the hero to his mates in the Bully Boys, but he’s shattered inside – haunted by one particular battle on which his whole life has turned. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 5-Nov The Hollywood Special Effects Show Get closer to the action than ever before as this interactive and explosive family show takes you behind the scenes of your favourite films to discover the secrets of movie magic. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 8-Nov Snow Play What would you do if one year Winter decided to stay and moved into your house? Well that’s what happens in our snowy spectacular show where you are guaranteed a white Christmas, no matter what the weather or the time of year! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 10-14 Nov Hairspray ‘Hairspray’ is all about removing prejudices and standing up for what you believe in and is full of fast moving, catchy songs with a colourful iconic 60s theme. Civic Theatre, Duke Street,

Weber Grill Academy on Tour - Live Christmas Barbecue Event

3 November, 6.30pm - 8.30pm A two-hour live cooking show with fantastic barbecue recipe demos and tasters. Join the Weber team in store where you’ll see first hand how to grill, roast and bake the Weber way, and learn all the skills you need to recreate these delicious recipes on your own barbecue! Drinks and nibbles on arrival and delicious cooked tasters handed out by the chefs throughout the evening. Price: £20 per person Perrywood Garden Centre, Kelvedon Road, Inworth, Tiptree, CO5 9SX. Tel: 01376 570777 Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 10-11 Nov Dinosaur Zoo From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, marvel and interact with extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE, 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre

15-Nov Jenny Eclair: How to be a Middle Aged Woman (Without Going Insane) Professional grumpy old woman, Splash survivor, amateur soup maker, and novice knitter, Jenny Eclair is younger than Madonna but eats crisps and likes wine. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19-21 Nov The Thrill of Love The Thrill of Love dramatises the true story of Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be hanged in Britain, and takes a fresh look at the woman behind the headlines. Brentwood Theatre, 15 Shenfield Road, Brenwtood, CM15 8AG 01277 200305. www.brentwood-theatre.co.uk 18-Nov The Forest Trapped in lives filled with daydreams, Thea and Robin both crave an escape from their everyday routines. One day they are drawn into the dark and mysterious forest and find themselves on an unexpected journey of self-discovery that changes their lives forever. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 20-Nov A Christmas Carol Get the Festive Season off to a fabulously funny start with the wonderful slapstick world of the Three Half Pints. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 24-Nov Harry Enfield & Paul Whitehouse A UK tour that promises to revive and revitalise a quarter of a century of classic comedy characters. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 28-Nov Christmas Sing-a-long Lunch Hugely popular Sing-a-long lunches are a must for that festive feeling! Cliffs Pavilion,Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk

12-Nov Disco Pigs Join Pig and Runt on their 17th Birthday binge as reality violently collides with their fantasy and their world begins to crumble. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk

28 Nov - 10 Jan Aladdin Hop on your magic carpet and join us for the adventure of a lifetime at this year’s pantomime.

Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester CO1 1PT. 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

14-Nov Andy Fairweather Low and The Low Riders Andy Fairweather Low’s story looks like the perfect example of how to become a legend.

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

28-Nov The Circus of Horrors The story twists and turns with grisly murders and sensational shock’s – all interwoven with some of the greatest and most bizarre circus acts on earth, performed by an almighty cast with a forked tongue firmly in each cheek and

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ESSEX the devil driven rock n’ roll of Dr Haze & The Interceptors from Hell. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre

Bee Gees This incredible musical features the story of one of the greatest bands of our time, from their early triumphs to their devastating decline and on to their meteoric climb back to the top.

Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch MUSIC RM11 1QT. 01708 443333.

3-Nov Ella Henderson www.queens-theatre.co.uk Since the release of her debut, million-selling single ‘Ghost’, Ella has received two BRITs 21-Nov Sinatra nominations for Best British Female and Best Celebrating One hundred years since the icon British Single, seen her debut album ‘Chapter was born in Hoboken, New Jersey, this show is One’ hit #1 in the UK and reach platinum far more than a Tribute to Frank Sinatra. The status. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southendmagic of Sinatra live in concert is captured on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. perfectly by the award winning David Alacey. www.southendtheatres.org.uk Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1SE. 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.

6-Nov 70’s Rewind! Dare to Flare! uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre Dance yourself back in time with 70s specialist 21-Nov The UB40 Experience: Live!

DJ John Watson – bringing the Glam Rock era back in all its glory with a mirror-ball or two Each member of the band has studied the thrown in! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, playing techniques, style and sounds of the members of UB40 which they represent so that Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk the real UB40 sound and feel is captured in the overall performance. Cliffs Pavilion, Station 7-Nov The Ultimate Beatles Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk Touring for over ten years, The Ultimate Beatles look the part as well as sounding great. Mercury 22-Nov Country Legends Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Back by popular demand Marshall King, Steve Cherelle and Lucy Leigh sing songs of the 14-Nov Songs that Won the War Legends Of Country. Brentwood Theatre, In this Remembrance Week, join vocalists ‘G.I. 15 Shenfield Road, Brenwtood, CM15 8AG Jeff & Sweetheart Sue’ for an afternoon of nos01277 200305. www.brentwood-theatre.co.uk talgia as they take you back to the 40’s to feature 27-Nov The Sherry Babys present the the great songs and melodies of the Ultimate Tribute to The Jersey Boys war-time years on this the 70th anniversary of Discover how four New Jersey boys from the the end of WW 2. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 wrong side of the tracks invented their own www.queens-theatre.co.uk unique sound, were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and sold 100 million records 14-Nov The Counterfeit Sixties worldwide. Princes Theatre, Station Road, A night of pure sixties magic comes to The Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633 West Cliff as The Counterfeit Sixties make a www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes welcome return. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Theatre Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 28-Nov Glitz, Blitz & 70s Hitz 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk Three of the greatest, most exuberant, live bands of the seventies team up for Glitz, Blitz 15-Nov Let’s Twist Again Starring Strictly Come Dancing lead singer Chris & 70s Hitz! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Madin and the hugely versatile Suzi Madin, they Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk lead a full company of critically acclaimed artistes and musicians, combining fun and laugh29-Nov That’ll Be The Day ter with some of the greatest hits of the 50s and The UK’s most popular Rock ‘N’ Roll variety 60s. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, show celebrates the festive season with all your Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s www.playhouseharlow.com & 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea 18-Nov The Big Band Christmas SS0 7RA, 01702 351135.

Show Enjoy all your favourite Christmas songs from www.southendtheatres.org.uk the likes of Glenn Miller, Sinatra and Nat King Cole. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945.

5 Nov - 23 Dec Present Arts www.playhouseharlow.com Maintaining The Gallery’s high standard, the emphasis is on works of art which are 18-Nov Lunchtime Concert affordable. The Gallery, Harlow, CM20 A toe tapping interlude to lunchtimes at the 2HP. 01279 426042. www.parndonmill.co.uk Cramphorn Theatre, where music is high on the

menu. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, 7-8 Nov Annual Exhibition and Sale at Fry CM1 1JG. 01245 606505.

Art Gallery www.chelmsford.gov.uk The gallery’s major fund-raising event, with more than 70 invited artists, including Royal 19-Nov You Win Again - The Story of the Academicians, exhibiting over 400 items at com-

petitive prices. Includes oils, watercolours, prints and three dimensional work. Fry Art Gallery, Castle Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1BD 01799 513779. www.fryartgallery.org 12-Nov Drawing and Painting the Scene Working with locally based professional based artists you will try out new techniques in drawing and painting using a range of interesting materials. Frontsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester CO1 1JH. 01206 577067. www.firstsite.uk.net 14-Nov The Finds Roadshow 2015 Short talks will run throughout the day, along with some children’s archaeology activities and the chance to see some other metal-detector discoveries. Beecroft Art Gallery, Victoria Avenue Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6. 01702 434449 www.southendmuseums.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 7-Nov Firework Display at Saffron Walden Common Fireworks organised by Saffron Walden Round Table. Common Hill, Saffron Walden, CB10 1JH. 01799 524002 7-8 Nov Guy Fawkes Festival & Fireworks at Royal Gunpowder Mills The spectacular event features the gunpowder plot story with re-enactors from the period, engaging craft activities and the hugely popular ‘Ghost of Guy Fawkes’ children’s play all culminating in a fabulous 15 minute fireworks display.

Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JY 01992 707370. www.royalgunpowdermills.com 7-Nov Seafront Fireworks at Southend A free fireworks extravaganza on the seafront.

Seafront, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2EJ. 01702 618747 8-Nov Steampunk Essextraordinaire at Museum of Power Celebrate Guy Fawkes with an exhibition of Steampunk art, Music, Craft market, Theatre, Burlesque and family entertainment. Steam Pumping Station, Hatfield Road, Langford CM9 6QA. 01621 843183. www.museumofpower.org.uk 9-Nov A Celebration of Christmas A floral extravaganza for the Christmas season, Nigel Whyles will enthral you. Brentwood Theatre, 15 Shenfield Road, Brenwtood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305. www.brentwood-theatre.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 22-Nov Essex Mountnessing Antiques & Collectors Fair A great choice of items ranging from stamps, ephemera, glass, china, postcards, figurines and much more. Mountnessing Village Hall , Roman Road, Mountnessing, CM15 0UA. 07780 971214 19-Nov The Brentwood Centre Antiques & Collectors Fair Established more than 20 years, the fair features indoor and outdoor stalls with dealers from all over the UK. The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN. 01702 410171

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AREA FOCUS

CHRISTMAS IN

CHELMSFORD Home to two shopping centres, theatres, historic attractions and bars and restaurants, it’s no surprise that during the festive season Chelmsford is buzzing with Christmas celebrations.

The City is the perfect place for picking up all your Christmas gifts with high street names located inside warm and festively decorated shopping centres and a popular retail market, which has over 50 stalls and kiosks, all under cover.

Chelmsford bars and restaurants offer something for everyone. You’ll find the usual chains scattered through the city centre as well as independent cafes, bistros and pubs, whatever you’re in the mood for whether it be a coffee to warm up or something festive and mulled you’ll be able to find it.

Here’s to what look forward to this Christmas: Christmas light switch-on, 22 November

The festive season starts with the switching-on of the centre’s Christmas lights. Popular radio presenters Martin and Su from Heart Radio will host the event this year. On stage outside Shire Hall they will showcase a sparkling host of local and professional talent. Cheer the entertainers who will light up the stage from 3pm until the event finishes with a bang at 4.45pm, when the fireworks finale launches near the Meadows Shopping Centre and the Town Sign.

When you aren’t watching the fun, this is the perfect opportunity for those who wish to do a bit of Christmas shopping. Keep an eye out for any special offers and deals from the shops! The following week, Late Night Shopping begins in Chelmsford City Centre on Thursday nights.

Christmas shopping at Hylands, 25 November

The Stables Visitor Centre will be open for festive shopping from 6pm to 9pm. There will be plenty on offer with local crafts and food stalls, resident artists, brass band and carol singers, plus a special appearance from Father Christmas. The second hand bookshop and gift shop will also be open, as well as the café, which will be serving mulled wine and mince pies.

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Ken Hayes, Seven Sisters, Watercolour

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AREA FOCUS

Seasonal

SAFFRON WALDEN Whether you’re local or are looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere of a historic market town, Saffron Walden has plenty to offer this season. We round-up everything to look forward to in the lead up to Christmas…

Christmas Fayre and Market, 29 Nov

The fayre kick starts the town’s festive celebrations with a day of stalls and entertainment from 10am to 5pm.

Acts such as Capoeira, Hyperfusion and the Wimbish Military Wives to name a few will entertain the crowds before the switch-on of the Christmas lights at 4.15pm.

At around 4pm Father Christmas will appear in the Market Place accompanied by the Mayor, Cllr Heather Asker. www.visitsaffronwalden.gov.uk

Father Christmas at Audley End Railway, 28-29 Nov

The Santa specials at Audley End Railway draw visitors from far and wide. Renowned in the region as one of the best festive activities for children expect a morning or afternoon of smiling faces from the little ones.

Take the Santa Express into the woods to visit Father Christmas and his Elves at his woodland Grotto.!

The event will take place until every weekend in December and everyday from 16 – 24 December.

01799 542134 | www.audley-end-railway.co.uk

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Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday 10th November - 6.30pm

Friends’ School Saffron Walden

Students enjoy the advantages of studying within a vibrant school, yet retain the independence and identity of being in a unique sixth form centre.

To find out more call Alison Stanbury on 01799 525351 admissions@friends.org.uk www.friends.org.uk 01799 525351

AREA FOCUS

Radwinter Christmas Festival, 28-29 Nov

Up to 20 trees will be beautifully decorated by local and groups and on show at the St Mary Virgin Church in Radwinter. Music and refreshments will be available.

Victorian Christmas at Audley End House & Gardens, 28-29 Nov & 5-6 Dec

Where better to celebrate the spirit of Christmas than in the grand house at Audley End. Help celebrate the festive season the Victorian way. Step back in time to the 1800s and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian Christmas. www.english-heritage.org.uk Christmas Market, 4 Dec

The Market Square will be alive with Christmas cheer as the crowds gather to browse and buy an array of festive gifts, crafts and local produce from 9am to 8.30pm.

Late Night Shopping, 4 Dec

An annual evening of fun, with shops remaining open until 8.30pm, market and charity stalls lining the central streets, entertainers, Father Christmas and his sleigh, and a Christmas Gift Fair in the Town Hall.

Tel: 01799 524002 4-6 Dec CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR IN SAFFRON WALDEN TOWN HALL

Great gifts on sale, in aid of the Mayor’s Appeal for Muscular Dystrophy. The fair will be open until 9pm on Friday to coincide with late night shopping and 10am – 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.

DECORATE SAFFRON WALDEN MUSEUM’S CHRISTMAS TREE, 5 Dec Photo: Gordon Ridgewell

Create decorations for the tree, and one to take home.

Drop in from 11am – 1pm or from 2pm to 4pm.

Normal entry fees apply – children must be accompanied by an adult.

01799 510333 | www.saffronwaldenmuseum.org BBC Singers at Christmas, 19 Dec

A special evening of choral music celebrates Christmas in style. The main focus of the evening is a semi-staged performance of Dylan Thomas’s popular prose poem “A Child’s Christmas in Wales”. This nostalgic and humorous account of Christmases long ago follows a sparkling first half performance of favourite carols and seasonal music, including Ding Dong Merrily, The Twelve days of Christmas, Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire The evening begins at 7.30pm at Saffron Hall, Saffron Walden. To book visit the Saffron Walden Tourist Information Centre.

0845 548 7650 | www.saffronhall.com eastlife.co.uk | 127

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Autumn 2015 Saffron Walden Sat 14 Nov 7.30pm

James Farm

Joshua Redman saxophone Aaron Parks piano Matt Penman bass Eric Harland drums The stellar US quartet, direct from the EFG London Jazz Festival

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Eddie Gomez & Britten Sinfonia Kristjan Järvi conductor Steven Osborne piano Eddie Gomez double bass

The legendary bassist walks the infinitely fascinating line between classical and jazz

Fri 4 Dec 7.30pm

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A special one-off performance from the unmistakably original catalysts of Spanish music

Book tickets at: www.saffronhall.com 0845 548 7650

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BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS

What’s on in

Beds, Bucks & Herts

THEATRE & SHOWS 5-Nov Lee Nelson - Suited and Booted It’s time to see Lee Nelson at his absolute best live and unleashed. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 6-Nov Adam Long’s Dickens Abridged A singing, dancing love-letter to the life and works of the great man, Dickens Abridged is unlike any Dickens-based show you’ve ever seen before. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com

7-Nov Snow Play What would you do if one year Winter decided to stay and moved into your house? Well that’s what happens in our snowy spectacular show where you are guaranteed a white Christmas, no matter what the weather or the time of year!

Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 7-8 Nov Peppa Pig’s Surprise Enjoy fun, games and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show with new songs and new life size puppets, Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers! Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 8-Nov That’ll Be the Day Featuring a fantastic new line up of knock-out hits from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus more sidesplitting comedy! Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 9-14 Nov Copenhagen In 1941 the German physicist Werner Heisenberg travelled to Copenhagen to meet his Danish counterpart, Niels Bohr. Old friends and colleagues, they now found themselves on opposite sides in a world war. Queen Mother Theatre, Walsworth Road, Hitchin, SG4 9SP. 01462 455166. www.queenmothertheatre.org.uk 10-14 Nov Singin’ In The Rain Singin’ in the Rain is a show packed packed full of the charm, romance, comedy and tinseltown glamour of one the world’s best loved movies.

Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455

EDITOR’S CHOICE

favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 8717607. www.atgtickets.com 15-Nov Sing-a-Long-a Frozen A full screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on screen to help you sing along during the film.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com

Charmian Hayes – Fur, Flesh and Fripperies 4-27 November, 10.30am - 4.30pm The exhibition covers three aspects of work – animal portraits, paintings of people and still life. All the paintings in the exhibition have been produced during the past three years. Charmian has been a member of Milton Keynes Society of Artists since 2010 and is currently its Chair. She has exhibited with the Society many times, but this is her first solo exhibition.

Orchard Side, Market Place. Olney MK46 4AJ. Tel: 01234 711516 www.cowperandnewtonmuseum. org.uk www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 11-Nov Emma Emma Woodhouse is handsome, clever and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition. She’s also a bit of a meddler. But what does she truly know of her own heart? The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 13-Nov Psychic Sally On The Road An ordinary woman with an extraordinary gift, she believes that she has been able to communicate with people beyond the grave.

The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 14-Nov That’ll Be the Day Christmas Show The UK’s most popular Rock ‘N’ Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your

16-Nov Ruby Wax: Sane New World ‘Sane New World’ shows us how to rewire our thinking to find calm in a frenetic world and how to become the master, not the slave, of our own minds. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 16-21 Nov The Shawshank Redemption Celebrating the 21st anniversary of the nation’s favourite movie. Fear will hold you prisoner hope can set you free. Bill Kenwright presents a new stage production inspired by the classic film The Shawshank Redemption. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 18-21 Nov Guys and Dolls A great musical with a large cast, great songs and a very entertaining story make this a musical for all the family. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117. www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk 18-21 Nov Carousel Carousel barker Billy Bigelow falls in love with mill worker Julie Jordan. Although they lose their jobs because of this, they still get married.

Unable to provide for his wife and unborn child, Billy takes part in a robbery and dies. Years later he’s allowed to return to earth for one day to help his daughter, Louise. The Court Theatre Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk 19-Nov Jethro Armed with nothing more than a microphone and delivered to you in a warm Cornish accent, Jethro has the rare ability to paint hilarious pictures in the mind of his audience. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333. www.grovetheatre.co.uk 22-Nov It’s A Wonderful Life Relive the iconic story of idealist George Bailey

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THE ANTIQUES CENTRE at OLNEY

The ANTIQUES CENTRE at OLNEY

Osborns Court, Olney, Bucks MK46 4LA

(off High Street South, opposite Aston Martin Dealership)

Tel: 01234 710942

01234 710942

The Antiques Centre at Olney offers a constantly changing selection of top quality antiques, curios and collectables in warm and elegant surroundings.

sales@olney-antiques.co.uk

www.olney-antiques.co.uk

More than 100 dealers in a mixture of open floor spaces and bright showcases display a wide selection of:

More than 100 dealers in a mixture of open floor spaces and bright showcases display a wide selection of: • • • •

antique and vintage furniture fine and costume jewellery metalware carpentry & garden implements

• • • •

high quality silver glassware and ceramics carpentry tools pictures and prints

There is easy parking in the car park behind the centre Opening times: Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 11am - 4pm

www.olney-antiques.co.uk

FURNITURE

JEWELLERY

MODELS

HOBBIES

GUNS

SILVER

TOYS

PORCELIN

TOOLS

GLASS

LEATHER

ORIENTAL

The Antiques Centre at Olney offers a constantly changing selection of top quality antiques, curios and collectables in warm and elegant surroundings.

Osbourns Court, Olney, Bucks, MK46 4LA (off the High Street South, opposite Aston Martin Dealership) OPEN: Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday 11am - 4pm There is easy parking in the car park behind the centre.

AT GRE RS E F OF LL AS WE EAS S A T ID GIF OR F AS ISTM R H C

MA HOME DE EVE TREA TS RY EAT DAY, I N OR TA AW KE AY

Matt Philcox and Cathy Dale after years of experience in the retailing world, came up with a concept for every foodie.

The high quality Cookware to prepare it, the great local companies to supply it and the Home-made recipes to enjoy it!

Blending the three elements together we have created a complete shopping experience centred around our love of food.

Cathy has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to all things Cookshop, working for a number of high class retailers over the past 20 years. Matt has worked with food his whole life, growing, selling and being creative using his much loved local and artisan produce.

"Prepare with Style, Cook with Confidence and Serve with a Smile"

9 Stanley Ct, Olney, Milton Keynes MK46 5NH | 01234 714006 | www.wildleaf.co.uk 132 | Download Our App Today!

BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS whose dreams look set to be dashed by smalltown scandal and big business. The Stables Stockwell Lane, Wavendon , MK17 8LU 01908 280800.

23-Nov Hamlet – Encore Screening As a country arms itself for war, a family tears itself apart. Forced to avenge his father’s death but paralysed by the task ahead, Hamlet rages against the impossibility of his predicament, threatening both his sanity and the security of the state. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 26-28 Nov Bugsy Malone This is a massively popular show with young casts everywhere, and a show for audiences of all ages to enjoy. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117. www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk 27 Nov - 24 Jan Sleeping Beauty – A Dream of a Pantomime! join the theatre for another spectacular pantomime full of music, laughter, amazing special effects and plenty of surprises. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 27-Nov Whitney - Queen of the Night A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 . www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 27 Nov - 24 Dec Santa Claus and the Magical Christmas Journey This new magical adventure filled with songs, nursery rhymes and stories promises to be the Christmas treat you won’t want to miss.

Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 27-Nov So This is Christmas Performed by a talented cast and fully live band, So This is Christmas features two hours of seasonal classics Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488. www.alban-arena.co.uk 28-Nov The Nutcracker Returning by popular demand, Vienna Festival Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker promises to delight audiences of all ages with its festive setting and captivating story. Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488. www.alban-arena.co.uk MUSIC 8-Nov The Phantom of the Opera Beneath the sewers of the Paris Opera House dwells a masked figure. He is the Phantom, a hideously disfigured composer whose dream it is to turn chorus singer Christine into a diva.

The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800.

13-Nov A Christmas Cracker A special selection of seasoned professionals from such shows as Wicked, Les Miserables,

Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, Billy Elliot and the Lion King come together to perform everybody’s favourite Christmas songs.

The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk

13-Nov The Simon and Garfunkle Story – 50th Anniversary Tour Using huge projection, photos and original film footage, this 50th Anniversary Celebration also features a full live band performing all the hits.

Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 www.grovetheatre.co.uk 16-21 Nov The Pirates of Penzance Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular show, The Pirates of Penzance, is a rollicking, delightfully funny musical tale of a band of soft-tempered pirates. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 18-Nov That’ll Be The Day: Christmas Show Trevor and the gang celebrate the festive season by bringing back the good times with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus more hilarious comedy! Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 19-Nov The Sensational 60s Experience Step back in time and relive the past during an evening true to the 60s when pop music was at it’s very best. Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk 21-Nov Mercury: The Ultimate Queen Tribute Winners of the National Tribute Awards 2013, Mercury have firmly established themselves as one of the world’s most authentic tributes to Queen. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 24-Nov Glitz, Blitz & 70’s Hitz Three of the greatest, most exuberant, live bands of the seventies team up for Glitz, Blitz & 70s Hitz! Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1-21 Nov The Art of Mitochondria; it’s in my DNA A sculptural exploration of matrilineal inheritance referencing both contemporary genetics and the celebration of female lineage in traditional human society. Courtyard Arts, Port Vale, Hertford, SG14 3AA. 01992 509596 www.courtyardarts.org.uk 7-Nov tiata delights - Artist Day A festival bringing together artists and audiences for a jam-packed day of events. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 14 Nov - 31 Dec Winter Fairy Tales

A magical exhibition inspired by Fairy Tales.

Obsidian Art , Old Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville, HP22 5XJ. 01296 612150 www.obsidianart.co.uk 14-15 Nov Roman Soldier After 25 years 1st officer Gaius Allius of Legion XIIII is going to retire. This will be his final weekend at Verulamium so don’t miss out on this last chance to see this Roman soldier.

Museum of St Albans, St Albans, AL1 3RR 01707 281127. www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 7-Nov Verulamium Firework Spectacular The 25 minute Firework display is as popular as ever and attracts over 20,000 people into Verulamium Park each year. Verulamium Park, St Michael’s St, St Albans, AL3 4SW. 01727 751810. www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk 8-Nov The Three Lakes Restaurant Wedding Fayre Come and see over 20 exhibitors full of wedding inspiration and ideas. From dresses to photographers to full venue decor. Westmill Farm, Ware, SG12 0ES 9-Nov Flower Arranging with Neil Guerney A night of fun, flowers, laughter and entertainment is guaranteed. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com

13-15 Nov Knebworth Christmas Fair One of the most popular seasonal events at Knebworth. Browse and buy from a wide range of arts, craft and gift stalls. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX 14-Nov Ashridge Christmas Trail Take a stroll through the woodland discovering more about Winter and Christmas time at Ashridge. Ashridge Estate, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, HP4 1LX. 01442 851227 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 1-Nov Barkway Antiques & Vintage Fair In it’s fifth year, this antiques fair is set in the picturesque village of Barkway in North Hertfordshire. Featuring a range of fabulous stalls with a wide variety of stock from, jewellery to ceramics, curios to clothing. Barkway Village, Hall, Cambridge Road, Barkway, SG8 8BS

14-Nov The Grand Vintage Fair The Grand Vintage Fair, St Albans, full to the rafters with retro relics and kitsch collectibles!

The Jubilee Centre, Catherine Street, St Albans AL3 5BU 21-Nov Hatfield House Antiques & Collectors’ Market Antiques and Collectors Fair at Hatfield House.

Free Admission and Parking. Stable Yard, Hatfield House, Hatfield, AL9 5NQ. 07751 296625 29-Nov Berkhamsted Antique Fair Antiques and Collectors Fair. Over 110 stands doors open 9.30am close 4pm. Berkhamsted Sports Centre, Lagley Meadow, HP4 3QQ.

eastlife.co.uk | 133

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AREA FOCUS

Image: Jeremy Rawlings

Image: Jeremy Rawlings

Olney Town Council hosts perhaps one of the biggest and most renowned Christmas events around each year, A Dickens of a Christmas.

Bringing a piece of Victorian England to the town and attracting thousands of visitors, it’s a must for anyone who loves Christmas or who wants to experience traditional festive fun – trust us, even Scrooge would find it difficult not to get into the Christmas spirit here!

This year’s annual Dickens of a Christmas market will be held on Sunday 6 December, 10am to 4pm. Traders dressed in Victorian clothes will occupy Olney’s Market Place and High Street with stalls offering festive treats.

As the smell of roasting chestnut and mulled wine fill the air, visitors can browse everything from an array of gifts, holly wreaths and wrapping to handmade crafts.

Delicious mulled wine, hot chocolate and turkey rolls, among other tempting festive treats, offer the perfect excuse to warm up. The Farmers Market offers delicious local produce and is the ideal opportunity to get some tasty ingredients if you’re planning a Christmas party.

Decorated trees will line the high street, lights will sparkle and the town’s main tree will all add to the

festive atmosphere. There will be an opportunity for children to visit Father Christmas and his elves in the grotto, meet birds of prey, pet the reindeers and enjoy fairground rides. There will also be brass bands, street entertainers not to mention three indoor craft fayres.

Even visitors are encouraged to dress up in Dickensian theme but be warned the Dickens Day is renowned as being the coldest day of the year, so wrap up well. If the cold becomes too much, most of the town’s pubs and restaurants will be open where you can warm up with a nice hot beverage.

Due to its growing popularity, this year the organisers have arranged a park and ride system to avoid queues and frustration. This is Olney’s busiest day of the year and one not to be missed!

If you fancy missing the hustle and bustle and have some serious Christmas shopping to do be sure to visit Olney’s Christmas Late Night Shopping event on 26 November. Olney is a little hotspot for shopping with a range of antique stores, toy shops and the latest fashions. The town’s lovely boutiques, independent stores and galleries will open until 8pm.

eastlife.co.uk | 137

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Remembering every girl’s tastes, our range (over 400) spans from traditional full length prom gowns fit for a fairy-tale princess, through to something vivacious, short and sparkly. There’s no doubt that these dresses will have you captivating your audience and looking every bit the Prom Queen the moment you step out!

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OLD SHANGHAI RESTAURANT Specialists in Cantonese, Peking & Szechuan cuisine Warm and friendly service guaranteed Good food and exclusive wines Small or large parties catered for | Takeaway available

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Open every day in december until Christmas, our experienced staff will offer help in choosing just the right gift for your loved one or friend. With gift ideas from £5 and so much to choose from – Ceramics, Glassware, Jewellry, Silverware,And don’t forget our large range of drinking glasses, cutlery and dinnerware to enhance your christmas table.

We also have period furniture ,Mirrors, Fine art, watercolours, prints,and lots more to look at.

Come in for a look, according to most of our customers you won,t be disappointed. You will find us overlooking the market place in olney where you can park for free all days except market day Thursday.

19 market place, olney bucks | 01234 240003

WWW.LEOANTIQUES.CO.UK We look forward to welcoming you.

Bookings now being taken for Christmas!

17a High Street, Olney (The Old Law Chambers) Bucks, MK46 4ED Tel: 01234 240260 / 240195 138 | Download Our App Today!

NOW OPEN

New country clothing and saddlery store Open Evening – Olney Store Friday 30th October, 17:30 – 22:00. Glass of bubbly www.royalequestrian.co.uk and nibbles plus 10% off first purchase in store or first Incorporating Olney Saddlery online order.

NOW OPEN NOW OPEN

Opening Hours Monday closed Tuesday 10–6pm Wednesday 10–6pm Thursday 10–8pm Friday 10–6pm Saturday 10–5:30pm Sunday 10–2pm

NEW COUNTRY CLOTHING AND SADDLERY STORE

New country clothing and saddlery store

Olney: 61 High Street, Olney Bucks, MK46 4EF T: 01234 240799 Free Parking outside shop

Lines Stocked

Equiline, Pikeur, Iris Bayer, Chriwen, Esparado, KEP hats, Samshield Hats, Petrie Boots and De Niro Boots – both include made to measure service, Bombers Bits, Passier Bridles and Saddlery, Roeckl Gloves, Sealskinz, Stubben, Dobert, Fairfax and Favor boots and bags, Annabelle Brocks, Anky, English Utopia, Really Wild, Anna Lascata, Creenstone and many more…

Knowledgeable and experienced equestrian staff.

additionally available by arrangement at Olney.

Open EveningPrivate – opening Olney Store

Huntingdon: Houghton Hall Equestrian Centre, Sawtry Way, Wyton Huntingdon Cambs PE28 2DY T: 01480 462795 Open on competition days only please check web www.hheqc.co.uk

Friday 30th October, 17:30 – 22:00. Glass of bubbly and nibbles plus 10% off first purchase in store or first online order.

info@royalequestrian.co.uk Opening Hours | 0800 246 1328 | 01234 240 799 | 07788913449

www.royalequestrian.co.uk info@royalequestrian.co.uk Monday closed 0800 246 1328 / 01234 240799 / 07788 913449

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Olney: 61 High Street, Olney Bucks, MK46 4EF T: 01234 240799 Free Parking outside shop Huntingdon: Houghton Hall Equestrian Centre, Sawtry Way, Wyton Huntingdon Cambs PE28 2DY T: 01480 462795 High Street, Olney, MK46 4BB Open on competition days only please check web www.hheqc.co.uk

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21/10/2015 14:46

eastlife.co.uk | 139

Book Before 30th November to Recieve a

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ANTIPASTO ALLA SICILIANA Mortadella, pancetta coppata, a selection of Sicilian cheeses, kalamata & nocellara olives, aubergine caponata & grissini

STARTERS

A SICILIANA INSALATA DI MARE salad of Squid, Octopus, Mussels & Prawns in extra virgin olive oil, ttaSeafood coppata, a selection of Sicilian cheeses, kalamata lemon juice, grated carrots & celery served with Italian grissini aubergine caponata & grissini

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REBRUSCHETTA CON CAPONATA Slow cooked Sicilian aubergine caponata served on toasted Italian bread Squid, Octopus, Mussels & Prawns in extra virgin olive oil, & topped with ricotta salata d carrots & celery served with Italian grissini

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MAINS ON CAPONATA 111 Dunstable Bedfordshire MK45 2NG G D V ian aubergine caponata served on Street, toastedAmpthill, Italian bread The Gazebo, Katherine’s Gardens TACCHINO otta salata ALLA SALTIMBOCCA www.fratelli-itallian.co.uk Pan fried Turkey escalope wrapped in Parma ham, served with dauphinoise potatoes, GD Ampthill, Beds MK45 2JP

Opening Hours 10am–1pm & 2pm–5pm Thursday & Friday Tel: 01525 402086 10am–1pm Saturday email: heathergoldthorpe@googlemail.com Or by Appointment D

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roasted root vegetables & finished with a Marsala wine sauce

EGLEFINO AL ASPARACI info@fratelli-italian.co.uk Oven baked smoked Haddock fillet in a bechamel & asparagus sauce served on a bed of herb crushed new potatoes SALTIMBOCCA

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TRIO OF CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

ORRO FUNGHI Dark,Emilk & white Chocolate mousse set on a sponge base a tossed with leeks, chestnut mushrooms, garlic, onions SALTED CARAMEL CHEESECAKE eamy white wine sauce

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Crunchy biscuit base with a rich vanilla cheesecake & a thick layer of salted caramel & flaked almonds

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COPPA DI MACEDONIA Fresh winter fruit salad (free from gluten & nuts)

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CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN info@fratelli-italian.co.uk www.fratelli-italian.co.uk

DONIA Fresh winter fruit salad (free from gluten & nuts)

91 Dunstable St. 204a High St. North Ampthill Dunstable ntains Gluten (G) ContainsTel: Dairy(01525) (D) Suitable for Vegetarians (V) Contains (N) Tel: Nuts (01582) T & C’s apply. Minimum table of 6 people. Offer only applies with our Christmas Menu 2015 404666 475797 *

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www.donatellospizzeria.co.uk info@fratelli-italian.co.uk 140 | Download Our App Today!

AREA FOCUS

FESTIVE

AMPTHILL Sometimes you just can’t beat a historic market town and there’s no better time to visit than at Christmas. Best known for its regular market, which has taken place for centuries, the town knows how to celebrate Christmas in style.

Home to several cosy pubs, a wide variety of restaurants and a selection of small independent stores, the town embraces its community spirit at Christmas with many businesses joining together for a festive fun in the lead up to the big day.

Christmas lights

Christmas begins with the light switch-on taking place Sunday 22 November from 2.30pm to 6pm. Crowds will gather in the Market Square for fun festive entertainment in the lead up to the switch on at 4.30pm.

It’s never too late or early for that matter to start your Christmas shopping and if you’re looking to give someone a one-off or thoughtful gift this Christmas, why not take a browse at the Ampthill Methodist Church Christmas Fair on Saturday 28 November.

There will be a variety of stalls featuring toys, bric-abrac, food goodies and a classic tombola, plus a visit from Father Christmas.

Christmas Tree Festival

Ampthill’s biggest and most popular festive event is the Christmas Tree Festival. This year the festival will take place 5 to 6 December at St Andrew’s Church. Across the two days there will be a jam-packed schedule of activities from storytelling, live music, stalls with Christmas crafts, a raffle and seasonal refreshments. The festival is an exciting and merry event, which will display a range of decorated Christmas trees that have been submitted by local businesses, organisations and schools.

Christmas carols

It’s a given that most of us will be extremely busy in the lead up to Christmas, but if you are a resident or live locally to Ampthill an hour singing carols could be just what you need to relax before the big day. On 21 December everyone is invited to come together and sing carols around the sparkling Christmas tree in the Market Square, between 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

What a wonderful way to start the Christmas week!

eastlife.co.uk | 141

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Stockists of Debbie Bliss, Sirdar & Yorkshire Spinners British Wool Scarves and Handmade Jewellery.

Knitting and Crochet Courses Available for All Levels.

Knitting & Crochet Pattern Books & Single Patterns Buttons and Ribbons.

11 Bridge Street, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 2DE T : 01462 422000 W: www.knitknacksyarn.co.uk E : knitknacksyarn@hotmail.com

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Open for lunch and dinner, inside or outside overlooking our glorious views Music by arrangement Celebrate that special occasion with us Live and Let Live Country inn Pegsdon Way, Pegsdon, HitcHin, HertfordsHire, sg5 3JX 01582 881739

5 Arcade Walk, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1EE 01462 433453 venuslingerie@unicombox.co.uk 142 | Download Our App Today!

www.liveand letlive.co

AREA FOCUS

HITCHIN During the festive season the region’s historic market towns really do come to life and Hitchin is no exception.

As one of the oldest towns in Hertfordshire and home to the elegant St Mary’s Church, Hitchin is a wonderfully picturesque town for festive fun.

This year, Christmas celebrations begin with the switch-on of the town’s lights on Friday 20 November.

The evening will be a great gathering offering seasonal cheer with Choir on Fire performing at 5pm, Hitchin Allstars at 5.30pm and Covenant Praise Gospel at 6pm before the switch on at 6.30pm.

From there on it’s full steam ahead with festive celebrations. A giant Snow Globe experience will be in the Market Place all weekend from 12 December, where kids can enjoy climbing inside and throwing snowballs for photo opportunities. The Santa Express Land Train will depart from the Market Place once again taking passengers on a ride around the town.

Nothing signifies Christmas like a festive market. For fabulous food and drink, shopping and all-round fun pop along to the Festive Food & Funday on Sunday 13 December. The Market Place will be packed with delicious food and drink, live music, choirs and street entertainers.

On 16 December Hitchin’s oldest Rotary Club hosts the open air carol concert in the Market Place at 8pm with a bucket shake for good causes. Don’t worry if the weather takes a turn for the worse, as the concert will move inside at St Mary’s if it rains.

For a final spot of shopping before the big day, a chance to buy the very best local produce for Christmas dinner and a range of festive treats visit Hitchin’s Three Day Christmas Market from 8.30am to 4pm, 22 to 24 December. There will be plenty of festive stalls, live music and mulled wine!

After all that festive fun, we think you might just about be ready for Christmas!

eastlife.co.uk | 143

Full range of Xmas activities and Santa grotto'. Details coming soon on our website and Facebook The Secret Garden is an indoor play area where babies and children under five can have fun while their parents relax. We have brought the ‘outdoors in’, and created a space where there are trees, grass and playhouses for little ones to play to their hearts’ content. As well as a clean, stimulating toddler play area, there is a baby sensory room with lights and textures and toys to stimulate the senses. We have a café that provides a range of delicious food, drinks & snacks, and various classes daily such as baby massage and signing. We also do party hire for all ages too!

For parents & carers we have: Creche – where you can leave your children for a couple of hours, in the care of qualified staff, to give you free time to do errands, finish work projects, or to get last minute Christmas shopping done.

Well Being Room - offering a variety of treatments ranging form craniosacral therapy, osteopathy, massage and reflexology upstairs in our relaxing treatment room.

Pamper Treatments – from luxury manicures and pedicures to facials and massages. Perfect for the up coming party season.

10 Sun Street, Hitchin, SG5 1AE t: 01462 454908 w: secretgardenhitchin.co.uk e: secretgardenpopup@gmail.com f: secretgardenpop/facebook t: SGardenHitchin/twitter

The ArT NesT

ArTworks, workshops & GifTs 4-5 West Alley, Hitchin, Herts, SG5 1EG Tel: 01462 454019 www.theartnest.com

A wide range of artwork, workshops and gifts.

A short stroll from Market Square, through the charming Arcade will bring you to us.

The gallery was established in 2011 by Hitchin artist Emmeline Webb. It’s a showcase for local and regional arts and crafts.

The gallery houses a lovely collection of paintings, hand pulled prints, ceramics and glass, along with its own range of greetings cards and bone china products.

MENS & LADIES FOOTWEAR, CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

Hitchin’s premier clothing and footwear store for men and women are offering

15% OFF WITH THIS ADVERT (offer ends 31st December)

FIND US AT 7 The Arcade, Hitchin, SG5 1ED TELEPHONE 01462 458523 FACEBOOK.COM/twistedfabric.hitchin WWW.twistedfabric.co.uk

144 | Download Our App Today!

Relax! decoration gifts textiles jewellery accessories

1 Churchgate, Hitchin Hertfordshire, SG5 1DN 01462 434946

home fashion

w etceterahomefashion.co.uk e info@etceterahomefashion.co.uk

Join The Radcliffe this

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eastlife.co.uk | 145

Gracewell of Kentford A care home as individual as you are

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

Interested and want to find out more?

Call 01638 555 090 or email: haa.kentford@gracewell.co.uk

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

A New Way to Live Well

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SUFFOLK

What’s on in

Suffolk

THEATRE & SHOWS 3-7 Nov West Side Story This timeless retelling of Romeo and Juliet features some of theatre’s most memorable songs Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

EDITOR’S CHOICE

5-Nov Jonathan Dimbleby Jonathan Dimbleby’s next book The Battle of the Atlantic will tell the story of the longest campaign of the Second World War. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 7-Nov Gino D’Acampo ‘Gino’s Italian Escape’ Chef, TV personality and best-selling author Gino D’Acampo is to tour the UK with a live stage show which will blend his love of Italy, some delicious signature dishes and audience participation, in a typically lively theatre show this autumn. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 7-Nov The Victorian Conjuror – A Night of Mystery Victorian England was a time of change. Fear and superstition gave way to a sense of wonder and amusement. And magic? Magic became a reflection of this brave new world. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 8-Nov Hamlet As a country arms itself for war, a family tears itself apart. Forced to avenge his father’s death but paralysed by the task ahead, Hamlet rages against the impossibility of his predicament, threatening both his sanity and the security of the state. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk

Discover Doggerland Saturday 7 November The drowned world under the North Sea explored through science, myth, art and stories.

We may think of ourselves as being an island race but only 8000 years ago our ancestors could walk to Holland. Britain was a corner of Europe, and what is now the North Sea was a vast, low-lying plain that archaeologists call Doggerland.

For thousands of years it contained sophisticated, settled populations, until they were forced out by the relentlessly rising sea. In this one day event (10am – 3.30pm) Waveney & Blyth Arts brings together leading archaeologists to present latest research, and a group of artists who reflect on this time through exciting new work.

Price: £15 The Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth IP19 8BY. Tel: 0845 673 2123 www.newcut.org

8-Nov Patrick Kielty – Help!

Patrick Kielty returns to his stand up roots with a brand new show. But he can’t do it on his own – he needs your help. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org

12-14 Nov The Winter’s Tale A play that intertwines tragedy, comedy, fantasy and romance in one spell binding piece of theatre. A world where statues come to life, and tyrant kings are forgiven. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH .

01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk

12-Nov The Good Old Days of Variety Mark Andrews award-winning Productions return with a wonderful show for all ages, taking you back to the great days of Variety entertainment, including a selection of Xmas music.

Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

12-14 Nov A Letter from Father Jenny Cooper directs this comedy of interesting personalities and very funny situations. Death has not stopped Father playing a posthumous joke on his children. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE . 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org

13-Nov Christmas Memories From the producers of Remember When At Christmas comes a brand new Christmas matinee nostalgia show. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 13-Nov John Higgs – Lavenham Literary Festival With John Higgs as a guide, step off the main path and wander through some of the more curious backwaters of the twentieth century, exploring familiar and unfamiliar territory alike, finding fresh insight on a journey to the present day. Lavenham Guildhall, Market Lane, Lavenham, CO10 9QZ. 01787 247646 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lavenham-guildhall 13-Nov On The Edge!

Falling in love, leaving home, getting a job, bungee jumping, you name it, this show explores it! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 14-Nov A Christmas Carol An one man adaptation of Dickens’ classic novel, adapted and devised by Clive Francis.

Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 14-Nov Harry Enfield & Paul Whitehouse Harry Enfield and Paul Whitehouse have been working together for 25 years. Now, for the first time ever, they will all appear live in a UK tour that promises to revive and revitalise a quarter of a century of classic comedy characters. The tour starts in October this year. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 15-Nov New Words, Fresh Voices This is the Seagull’s bi-monthly performance platform for local poets and songwriters. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 16-18 Nov The Snow Queen Join Ballet Theatre UK in their beautiful re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale ballet, The Snow Queen. Theatre Royal Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 23-Nov Hairspray It’s Baltimore, 1962 where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her

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

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

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30 Oct-27 Nov, 14-15, 21-22, plus natural 21 Nov-22 Dec 30 Oct-22 Dec 10am-5pm 28-29 Nov, decorations 11am-4pm 10am-4pm, 28 Nov-22 Dec, 5-6, 12-13 Dec 28 Nov-22 Dec Tickets available 10am-5pm at 9am-5.30pm 10am-5pm 9am-5.30pm online only Crafts weekends

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

See website for wreath/garland/mobile/collage workshops and Kids’ Christmas Festival

www.blackthorpebarn.com

J45 A14. Rougham, 3 miles from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 9HZ

Insidesuffolk.com is an independent marketing company based in the beautiful village of Long Melford in Suffolk.

Insidesuffolk.com does not work with business associations, put simply there is no committee to argue with ! Just me and my cameraman producing quality digital media that works.

Take at look on our facebook page to see the latest Suffolk village video which has received 200,000 views before we went to print in this copy of EastLife.

We are currently working on www.suffolkartgalleries.co.uk , for more information contact Paul Moreton at Paul@chevingtongroup.co.uk or call 07867 330993.

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SUFFOLK way onto national TV. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

work to date. The Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. www. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

24-Nov Cutting Edge Medical Science Can the latest research help save lives and money? Find out what’s happening on our doorstep and what we can do to help ourselves.

The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY 0845 6732123. www.newcut.org

21-Nov The Billy Joel Songbook Following on from his highly-acclaimed New York and Philadelphia, Billy Joel ‘Original Touring Band’ concerts, Elio Pace delivers this sensational tour celebrating the phenomenal music of Billy Joel. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100. www.apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO

25-26 Nov Peppa Pig Peppa Pig, George and friends are back at The Marina in their brand new stage show. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoftm NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 27 Nov - 10 Jan Jack & The Beanstalk Traditional family pantomime. The story of Jack, a handful of beans, a cow and a giant will be full of magic, music and fun. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 27-Nov Uncle Vanya Disharmony is provoked when an elderly professor leaves the city and brings his beautiful young wife to live on his family’s rural estate.

Desire, jealousy, unrequited love and thwarted ambition are revealed in Chekhov’s classic story of country life. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk

MUSIC 5-Nov John McNicholl & His Band John McNicholl back once again with his band to perform a selection from his latest albums.

Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 6-Nov Absolution Blues Trio Absolution formed in May 2010 with the sole intention of fulfilling an obligation for a 40 minute support slot. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 11-Nov Cara Dillon The extraordinary Irish singer makes music that transcends genres and crosses barriers. The Apex , 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 13-Nov One Night of Elvis Featuring large screen projection, this spectacular show begins with an authentic recreation of the legendary ’68 Comeback Special, progressing through to a rousing expo of Elvis’s years performing in Vegas. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 16-Nov Moricosta String Trio A love of the string trio repertoire. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 17-Nov Will Young ‘85% Proof ’ is the sixth album from the multimillion selling Brit Award winning singer-songwriter and represents his most accomplished

21-Nov Dancing Queen An action packed party show featuring the greatest hits from Abba, Grease and the 70’s.

This is the ultimate nostalgia night that guarantees to get you dancing in the aisles! Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 21-Nov Suffolk Sinfonia Concert Stories of sadness underlie the lively music of the Suffolk Sinfonia’s Autumn outing. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 22-Nov Catfish Keith Catfish’s innovative style of foot-stomping, deep delta blues and American roots music has spellbound audiences the world over. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft , NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 26-Nov Girl Power The evening pays tribute to icons such as Madonna, Joni Mitchell, Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Dolly Parton and Annie Lennox. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 28-Nov The Chicago Blues Brothers Celebrating over 30 years of the Blues Brothers phenomenon, this non-stop revue is packed with the very best Blues, Motown & Soul music. Marina Theatre, The Marina Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 28-Nov A Touch of Holly at Christmas Marc Robinson returns with his uplifting show that is sure to deck the halls with Holly, a Rock N Roll Christmas show full of Buddy Holly’s classics. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 29-Nov Simon And Garfunkal A powerful live performance and multimedia show, taking a chronological journey through the friendship and career of Simon & Garfunkel. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 1-5 Nov Mighty Fine Art by Peter Williams 2015 sees Peter Williams returning to The Quay Gallery for his fifth and sixth exhibitions to display his highly detailed and intricate pencil drawings, pastels and dramatic watercolour paintings as well as a selection of giclée prints.

Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR. 01728 688 303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk 5-9 Nov Ways With Words Literature Festival The festival has the usual eclectic mix of fantastic speakers. St Edmunds Hall, Cumberland Rd Southwold, IP18 6JP. 01502 722572. www.wayswithwords.co.uk 6-12 Nov Jason Avery Exhibition Jason Avery is a Suffolk based photographer working in various photographic mediums.

Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR. 01728 688 303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk 14-28 Nov Bob Banks and Carol Banks Exhibition Bob Banks produces work in pastels, acrylic and charcoal, while Carol Banks designs and hand makes silver clay jewellery inspired by nature and art. The Upstairs Gallery, Exchange Square Beccles, NR34 9HH. 01502 717191. www.theupstairsgallery.co.uk 21-Nov Cut Loose Poets Release your inner creativity with the help of two of the most enthusiastic experienced workshop leaders and poets, Michael Laskey & Dean Parkin. The Cut, New Cut , Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123. www.newcut.org

SPECIAL EVENTS 7-Nov November Farmers Market A wonderful array of fresh produce and delicious artisan products all under one roof. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR. 01728 688 303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk 27-Nov Winter Wonderland Dinner Dance Start the festive season in style at the White Lion’s annual dinner dance in the James Cable room. Tickets £33 per person including fourcourse dinner and live entertainment. White Lion Hotel, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh, IP15 5BJ. 01728 452720. www.whitelion.co.uk 27-28 Nov Presents Galore There are 120 stands selling everything from stocking fillers to cashmere and they are so inspirational you hardly need a shopping list.

Entrance £5. Rowley Mile Racecourse, Newmarket, CB8 OTF. www.presentsgalore.org.

28-29 Nov The Cut Grand Bizaar Art, craft, music, food and drink. A chance to do your Christmas shopping and more. Santa Claus will be visiting on Sunday. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 www.newcut.org

AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 15-Nov Ixworth Antiques and Collectors Fair Indoors, 40 tables includes specialist art glass stall, furniture, pottery, porcelain, time pieces, beswick, plus lots more. Ixworth Village Hall, Ixworth, IP31 2HH. 07535 503864 28-29 Nov Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair An antiques and vintage fair with approx 30 dealers, held on the last weekend (Sat & Sun) of every month. The Old School, CO10 9DX.

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W&M SMITH

The Pightle Barn is bursting at the seams with lots of goodies for Christmas.

Come along and you will be surprised what you will find amongst the laden shelves. Not only do we have cards, wrapping paper and tags, but something just that bit different from the norm.

We have tried to find some different decorations and the theme which has been apparent all year, the rustic look, has continued into the Christmas range.

Driftwood and birch is in abundance in all shapes and forms, like reindeer, trees, hearts, stars etc. The old favourites are included in our vast range, like berries, silk holly and poinsettias, robins, artificial and dried fruits, garlands from the cheap and cheerful to the luxurious with some having wreaths to match.

A large selection of cake decorations in plastic, clay dough as well as edible ones, along with Christmas cake boards, boxes, muffin cases, bun cases, cake frills, icing and marzipan, are now all in.

A new line this year are chocolate boxes in a range of sizes from ones to fit just two chocolates to ones to hold 375g. Not forgetting napkins, crackers, candles, baskets, ribbons, cellophane, the list is endless!!

A visit to this quiet corner of Middlewood Green is highly recommended.

You will not be disappointed!!

For all those special occasions in your life...

Visit our showroom for your floral artistry and craft needs.

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

Wickerware

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Open Monday & Thursday 10am - 7pm; Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10am - 5pm.

Also selected Saturdays and Sundays 10 - 4 (please call to check)

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

The “Fayre” will be all around town with over 300 stalls, including fabulous food, entertainment and great shopping which is not to be missed!

Welcome to the

NOVEMBER 26-29, 2015

A great festive timemily! awaits all the fa

Highlights include:

e Provisions markets e EACH schools carol concert e Shoppers’ cathedral carol service e Farmers Market e St Nicholas Hospice Duck Race e St Mary’s Church Organ Juke Box e Street entertainers all weekend e Closing service on Angel Hill

Opening night

FIREWORK DISPLAY

FREE ENTERTAINMENT

Thursday 4pm-8pm Friday and Saturday 10am-8pm Sunday 10am-5pm

Info Line 01284 764667 www.burystedmundschristmasfayre.co.uk kCHRISTMAS FAYRE SPONSORS

AREA FOCUS

A BURY

CHRISTMAS If there’s one town that knows how to celebrate Christmas in style it’s Bury St Edmunds.

Attracting visitors from across the region, Bury St Edmunds has firmly established itself as a town of Christmas cheer Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre

Filling the streets and parkland with festive fun, the famous Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre returns from 26 to 29 November.

Whether you’re looking for extra special gifts, want to feast on festive food or simply want to get into the Christmas spirit, the fayre is one not to be missed.

This year there will be more than 300 stalls selling a variety of gift ideas and tasty treats from across nine different town centre locations including the award-winning Abbey Gardens, traditional European stalls on the historic Angel Hill, as well as a fascinating museum, a rich array of independent traders, and a 21st century shopping centre.

In 12 years Bury St Edmunds has built a reputation for putting on one of the best Christmas fayres in the country. The four-day event continues to charm with a festive flair that attracts thousands of visitors from across the UK. It’s easy to spend hours browsing crafts and gifts or soaking up the rich festive atmosphere complete with mulled wine and fine foods – the Bury St Edmunds Christmas fayre has it all. eastlife.co.uk | 153

Visit The REAL Ice Skating Rink

IN THE Arc Shopping Centre Bury St Edmunds 5th December 2015 - 3rd January 2016 For more information please EMAIL jackie.regan@ourburystedmunds.com or CALL 01284 766258

For further information visit

www.ourburystedmunds.com/icerink

AREA FOCUS

New to this year’s fayre is the homemade in East Anglia section featuring a selection of a dozen regional businesses selling everything from wine and cakes to soaps and much more, all from the pleasant setting of the Cathedral court yard. Children can enjoy a traditional funfair alongside other games and rides, while returning is a fantastic mix of street entertainers and the ever-popular traditional town crier.

Meet real life reindeer in the idyllic Abbey Gardens, enjoy carols and other musical entertainment from two stages and join intraditional carol services in the beautiful setting of St Edmundsbury Cathedral on the Friday and Saturday afternoons.

The Christmas fayre opens from 4pm on Thursday 26 November with a children’s parade and firework finale.

Park and ride services will be running from off of the A14 from Friday to Sunday. So, if you want all the charm of a traditional Christmas Fayre in historic settings with a strong mix of independent retailers and a 21st century shopping centre – then there is nowhere better than Bury St Edmunds. For more visit: www.burystedmundschristmasfayre.co.uk

Christmas Light Switch-on

Bury St Edmund’s town centre will be lit up in a Christmas glow on 19 November, from 2pm – 3.30pm.

The day will feature an afternoon of festive treats and activities.

Christmas at The Apex

The Apex is the town’s hub for entertainment year around, and Christmas is no exception. On selected dates throughout November and December it will host the Christmas Craft & Gift Fair. Local exhibitors will offer great selection of handmade crafts and gifts for a warm and friendly shopping experience.

On Monday 14 December you can get into the festive spirit with music from Roy Wood’s legendary rock & roll band, while ‘Carols by Candlelight’ with The Locrian Ensemble will take place on 15 December.

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s u o l u b a F e v i t s e F t a s t f Gi

Georgian Coffee House The Georgian Coffee House is situated on the Thoroughfare in the heart of Woodbridge.

A traditional tea room, coffee house, café and restaurant serving breakfast, morning coffee, light lunches, afternoon tea and homemade cakes.

Good quality ingrediants, waitress service, good value and comfortable surroundings make for a perfect visit.

t: 01394 387292 e: info@georgiancoffeehouse.co.uk

www.georgiancoffeehouse.co.uk 47a Thououghfare, Woodbridge, IP12 1AH

6A Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1AG Tel: 01394 548815 Mobile: 07775 623188

CELEBRATING

15 YEARS OF BUSINESS As a well-established business Gold Leisure offers all treatments you would expect to see from a professional beauty salon.

The salon holds a highly experienced and dedicated professional team, to help you with all your beauty needs.

Nestled in Gobbitts Yard, the salon is surprisingly spacious and has four treatment rooms woth two state of the art vertical UV tanning units.

As well as providing traditional beauty treatments, Gold Leisure also offers new and innovative techniques.

They are renowned for hand designed airbrush nails which can be designed for any occasion.

Beauty Treatments • Massage • UV Tanning St. Tropez Spray Tanning • Ear Piercing • Gel Colour Nails • Airbrush Nail Design • HD Brows • Facial Treatments • Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion • Gift Vouchers

We will ensure you can relax in the most calming, comfortable environment that allows you to unwind and enjoy every moment of your chosen treatment.

Our experienced and friendly team will cater for your every need and ensure you receive the highest quality treatments at affordable prices.

Telephone:

01394 389384 Email: goldleisure@hotmail.co.uk Open Mon to Thurs 8am - 5pm, Fri 8am - 5pm & Sat 8am - 4pm 4a Gobbits Yard, Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, IP12 1DD

eastlife.co.uk | 157

VO BA UC TH HE SH RS EB AV A G AI IFT LA BL E

REN luxury treatments, full product range and Xmas Gift boxes available at BATHSHEBA SPA. Call or visit our website for full details 01394 388813 | www.bathshebaspa.co.uk 24 Church Street, Woodbridge IP12 1DH Get pampered this Christmas A modern, boutique day spa. An oasis of calm, self spoiling and femininity in a warm, welcoming environment.

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For All Your Natural Stone & Ceramic Tiling Needs

with ranges to suit all budgets.

Stuart Clay Traps Ltd Stuarts Outdoor is part of Stuart Claytraps Ltd and has an enviable reputation for supplying top quality outdoor products at great prices.

With a real-world shop located in Melton, Woodbridge, you can be sure of the same excellent customer service online as you have come to expect from our shop.

What ever your outdoor pursuit you’ll find an item of clothing to suit your needs from leading manufacturers such as Aigle, Beretta, Gamebird, Laksen and Le Chameau. Offering jackets, jumpers, vests, sweaters, trousers, footwear and scarves and gloves, you’ll also find a number of tools, field accessories and air rifles available. The website shop is easy to use and navigate and currently features some great savings.

Stuarts Outdoor is constantly increasing its online product range so be sure to check out for the latest great deals and offers on outdoor clothing and countrywear.

MARBLE BASINS ALSO AVAILABLE FROM £200

TEL:

01394 610528

www.meltontilestudio.co.uk | meltontilestudio@talktalk.net The Tile Studio, Spur End, Wilford Bridge Rd, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1RB

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Tel: 01394 385567 Fax: 01394 387757

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AREA FOCUS

WINTER IN WOODBRIDGE Father Christmas, carols and festive markets – Woodbridge is serving up the very best of Christmas The Woodbridge festive season starts with the return on the popular market. The Mammoth Christmas Street Fair is back on Sunday 6 December between 10am-4pm. More than 140 stalls take over the Thoroughfare and Cumberland Street in Woodbridge to give shoppers inspiration, a vast range of items to browse and some great bargains!

Tim Fincham, owner of Woodbridge Sandwich Shop and organiser of the Christmas Market said: “This market has been going for over 15 years and each year it seems to attract more stalls and shoppers both local and from farther afield. It is a lovely way to begin the build up to Christmas and pick up some fabulous deals, gifts and decorations.”

Shoppers can buy Christmas gifts from handmade goods such as pottery, soap and wooden garden furniture to seasonal food, clothing, crafts and plants.

The market is always very popular and is growing every year with new stallholders bringing an even wider selection of goods. The smell of festive food and the sound of Christmas carols fill the air as shoppers enjoy a festive and fruitful day out.

Chris Harrold from Choose Woodbridge added: “It’s

a great market with a superb atmosphere and it brings a lot of people into Woodbridge. Plus - it really does signal the start of the Christmas period!”

Special events

The Woodbridge Rotary Club have secured dates for visits from Father Christmas. On Sunday 22 November, Father Christmas will arrive in style at Notcutts at 11.30am and be settled in his grotto until 4pm. He will then put in an appearance every Saturday and Sunday between 11 am to 1.30 pm and 1.45pm to 4pm.

His last appearance will on Tuesday 22 December between 11am and 4pm.

The money raised by Father Christmas for charity will be shared between Riding for the Disabled Hollesley Branch, East Anglia Childrens Hospice and other Charities suported by Rotary. Father Christmas will be touring the Woodbridge Area in his Sleigh prior to Christmas collecting for his listed Charities.

On Monday 21 December a Christmas carol service will take place on Market Hill starting at 6.30pm. Father Christmas will arrive and distribute sweets to all the children. eastlife.co.uk | 159

11 Nov East Life Ladies Shopping QP 2015_Layout 1 07/10/2015 15:27 Page 1

Lightfoot.indd 1

Ladies

In aid of20/06/2012 16:10

Shopping Night at Ufford Park Woodbridge

£6

per person (proceeds going to Marie Curie) Tickets must be booked and pre-paid

Thursday 26th November 7:00pm - 9:30pm

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

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Deben carpets and Flooring, Unit N, Bristol Court, Betts Avenue, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich. Suffolk IP5 3RY

www. debencarpetsandf looring. co. uk

Registered charity No.1100596

www.suffolkpunchtrust.org

4th & 11th December CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING Full day course - booking essential - £50 5th & 6th December WINTER WONDERLAND FAIR Enjoy some relaxed Christmas shopping.

With local crafts and festive food, enjoy a seasonal stroll then cath a ride on our tinsel tractor.

The Suffolk Punch Trust, Hollesley, IP12 3JR -

just 15 minutes from Woodbridge !

DreamMaker Bathrooms 01728 685958

WE REPAIR OR RENOVATE - NO NEED TO REPLACE

Chips/cracks/scratches/impact damage in any colour on any material.

Repair and re-surfacing to all sanitary ware items in any colour.

Anti slip surface treatment. Cistern lids restored.

Work carried out in situ on any material and in any colour and is ready for use the same day.

FREE ESTIMATES. Save £’s over a replacement.

DreamMaker Bathrooms Ivy Farm, The Green, Saxtead (Nr Woodbridge) Suffolk IP13 9QG sales@dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk www.dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk

THE AGA REPAIR AND RESURFACING COMPANY 01728 685958

Before Resurfacing

Cleaned & Primed

Resurfaced in Classic Coating

After Resurfacing

Anything from full restoration/makeover to isolated chips and repairs in any colour. Any cooking range, cosmetic surface repairs and resurfacing all carried out in situ.

We also makeover kitchen cupboards and worktops.

The Aga Repair and Resurfacing Company Ivy Farm, The Green, Saxtead (Nr Woodbridge) Suffolk IP13 9QG sara@theagarepairandresurfacingcompany.co.uk www.theagarepairandresurfacingcompany.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk | 161

SOCIAL SCENE

Thank you to everyone who entered our Halloween competition!

Here are some our favourite entries...

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!

‘Like’ our Facebook page /eastlifemag Follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines Follow our Instagram @eastlifemag

Attending a festive market or event? Share your pics on our Facebook page for a chance be featured in the next issue of Eastlife!

Christmas is almost here and to celebrate we’re giving away lots of exciting prizes. This month you could win a family pass to the region’s biggest pantomimes and ice skating rinks.

‘Like’ our Facebook for more details!

Follow us on Instagram for exclusive images of the latest exhibitions, launches and events across the region!

Tweet us @eastmagazines

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Launching Saturday 7th Nov at 10am Oliver’s Grove, Stanway CO3 0JT

A development of luxurious 2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes within the charming village of Stanway.

Welcome to Oliver’s Grove, a superb collection of homes from award-winning house builder Hopkins Homes. Ideally located and offering easy access to Colchester and the A12, as well as great rail connections to London, at Oliver’s Grove you won’t have to compromise.

After the launch, Marketing Suite open Thursday - Monday, 10am - 5pm For further information please call: 01394 446860 or e-mail: sales@hopkinshomes.co.uk

hopkinshomes.co.uk Computer generated images of Oliver’s Grove.

Prices correct at time of going to press.