www.eastlife.co.uk
Living life in the East
PICK UP YOUR
FREE COPY
SEPTEMBER 2014
Wedding Special
Save the date for this month’s fairs On trend accessories Plan the perfect wedding Interview with leading bridal designer
Education Special Back to School
Who’s taking centre stage at the theatre? Relax with a bargain break Fashion must haves
PLUS: Bishop’s Stortford, Newmarket, Great Yarmouth and more
The new C-Class Saloon.
It offers more than outstanding performance. Imposing looks. Cutting-edge technology. Extraordinary comfort. The new C-Class Saloon combines all these to give you an exceptional driving experience. And right now it offers even more. It can be yours from only £329 a month. Experience it for yourself. We’re sure that once you get behind the wheel, you’ll want to stay there.
Robinsons Group 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 new C-Class CO2 emissions 138-94 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road
Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz new C 220 BlueTEC Sport Saloon with automatic transmission at £32,860.00 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ may apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and retailer deposit contribution. Quotations September 2014 and registered by 31 December 2014, excluding C-Class MY804 Saloon. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Some combinations of features/options may XX |Prices eastlife.co.uk apply. correct at time of going to press (08/14). Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA.
ran
cond Road avai not b
Representative example C 200 SE Saloon with metallic paint 36 monthly payments of (Term of agreement)
£329.00*
On-the-road price
£27,500.00
Customer deposit
£3,999.00
Retailer deposit contribution
£1,176.06
Optional purchase payment
£13,075.00
Total amount of credit
£22,324.94
Total amount payable
£30,369.06
†
††
Acceptance fee
£180.00
Purchase activation fee
†
Representative Fixed interest rate
£95.00 5.5% APR 4.82%
ere.
Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751 000 www.mercedes-benzofnorwich.co.uk Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294 900 www.mercedes-benzofpeterborough.co.uk
ss
range: urban 40.4(7.0)-72.4(3.9), extra urban 61.4(4.6)-83.1(3.4), combined 51.4(5.5)-78.5(3.6).
road nths’ ions may
conditions and other non-technical factors. Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance on behalf of other finance companies as well. Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Based on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement. Example based on 10,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges available on request for alternative contract lengths and mileages. This finance campaign is available on new C-Class Saloon models ordered/credit approved between 1 July and 30 not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other published offer from the retailer. Terms and conditions
eastlife.co.uk | XX
Offering a unique setting on the edge of the stunning Ormesby Broad
orrmesb by bro oad
www.theboathouseormesbybroad.co.uk XX | eastlife.co.uk Boathouse East Life Ad.indd 1
Quite simply one of the most idyllic and romantic venues you will ever discover for your wedding celebration.
Tel: 01493 730342 eastlife.co.uk | XX 18/08/2014 10:33
CATEGORY
LOVE BEDFORD LOVE FOOD Since the 1990’s we have had a real culinary revolution meaning we are ‘Eating out’ more as it has become a modern growth phenomenon. Bedford Town with its diverse range of restaurants, cafes and bars have seen a massive increase in the range of food styles available. Aside from the obvious British, these include Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Italian, Lebanese, Turkish, Polish, Hungarian, Mongolian, Thai, Singaporean and Vietnamese. Coupled with this, Bedford is proud of the number of independent restaurant owners who take a pride in offering great customer service and ‘out of the norm, run of the mill’ restaurant dishes and are keen to welcome you to their establishments. Menu innovation is now rife in an increasingly competitive and mature marketplace with current food fashions designed to entice customers to spend on eating out. Many restaurants are also looking to appeal to those diners who seek to indulge their craving for flavour innovation through side dishes rather than main meals. The restaurants are ideally situated, some with great views of our wonderful river. They are also within easy reach of evening parking, either FREE on street after 6pm or in the 24/7 facilities now at Lurke Street and River Street Car Parks. Whether it be a meal out with friends, family or that very special occasion, Bedford has it all.
XX | eastlife.co.uk
15210 East Life 240x168 Advert_Layout 1 10/07/2014 17:05 Page 1
> EXACTLY WHAT YOU BUDGETED FOR.
> THINKING ABOUT A NEW MERCEDES-BENZ? HAVE A BUDGET IN MIND? Then just go to our yourmercedes microsite. Simply select the monthly figure that suits your budget and choose the Mercedes-Benz for you. You’ll also find our very latest offers on selected models too.
Just go to www.yourmercedes.co.uk to find the right Mercedes-Benz, at the right price.
Robinsons Group Mercedes-Benz of Bury St. Edmunds 01284 769 676
Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401 100
Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751 000
Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294 900
Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777 307
Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the E-Class range: urban 20.3(13.9)65.7(4.3), extra urban 36.2(7.8)-67.3(4.2), combined 28.3(10.0)-65.7(4.3). CO2 emissions 234-109 g/km. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz new E 220 CDI AMG Sport Saloon with manual transmission at £39,955.00 on-the-road including optional 18" AMG alloy wheels at £365.00, 360 camera at £715.00, Driving Assistance Package at £2,345.00 and LED Intelligent Light System at £1,280.00. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Terms and conditions apply. Prices correct at time of going to press (07/14).
XX | eastlife.co.uk
WELCOME TO EASTLIFE
SEPTEMBER 2014
Editor’s Letter Dear Reader,
editor @ eastlife Publisher Sean Thompson 01954 267696 sean@eastmag.com Publishing Consultant Paul Gibson 01954 268129 paul@eastmag.com Editor Emma Morgan emma@eastmag.com Production Manager Craig Lewis 01954 268142 craig@eastmag.com Sales Manager (South Norfolk, Suffolk & Essex) Darren Marshall 07826 628680 darren@eastmag.com Area Manager (Herts, Beds & North Norfolk) Stewart Hedges 07595 894557 stewart@eastmag.com Area Manager (Cambridgeshire & West Norfolk) Jim Leishman 01954 267635 jim@eastmag.com ACCOUNTS/ENQUIRIES 01954 268129 accounts@eastmag.com ADVERTISING ads@eastmag.com HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge CB23 4EY.
Wedding hysteria has been sweeping the Eastlife office this month. Not only have we been putting together our fabulous ‘wedding special’ with tips for planning the perfect day, the region’s must-visit fairs and beautiful bridal accessories, I’ve also been putting the final touches to my own wedding taking place at the beginning of this month. As well as wedding mania, it’s also the start of a new school year and we’ve put together a very handy guide for choosing the right school for your child. Get your diary ready for school open days and read our exclusive interview with a leading education principle. There are also bargain breaks to snap up, a look at the new season’s theatre productions and some tasty recipes from the region’s top chefs to try at home. Remember you can also read exclusive online content at www.eastlife.co.uk For the last time as Miss Morgan, have a great month everyone!
Emma Morgan
Like us on Facebook
/eastlifemag
Follow us on Twitter
@eastmagazines
Follow us on Instagram
@eastlifemag
EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.
eastlife.co.uk | 9
cambridge city
art fair Buy high-quality modern & contemporary art & sculpture from £75 to £10,000+
Meet the Artists
Programme of FREE talks & presentations
10th to 12th October Food lovers Café & a chic Wine Bar
at The Guildhall, Cambridge
30+ respected art galleries & dealers showing the work of 100’s of UK & international Artists For more info & to purchase tickets email us at enquiries@cambridgeartfair.com or visit our website at:
www.CambridgeArtFair.com
XX | eastlife.co.uk EastLife fullpage .indd 1
14/8/14 16:45:21
CONTENTS SEPTEMBER FEATURES
NEWS 13
AROUND THE REGION - the latest news
20 26 28 32
THEATRE - who’s centre stage this season?
45
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW - your questions
LIFEST YLE FOOD & DRINK - mouth-watering recipes BARGAIN BREAKS - adult only getaways MOTORING REVIEW - Mercedes C-Class
EDUCATION answered by leading Essex principle
51
35
EDUCATION SPECIAL School open days
BACK TO SCHOOL - stationary special
FASHION 58
A/W 14 - this season’s must-have trends
67 72
SAVE THE DATE - wedding fayres & exhibitions
WEDDINGS SPECIAL PROFESSIONAL PLANNING - advice from one of the the region’s leading planners
HOME & GARDEN 93 99
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW - Sarah Beeny reveals all FIREPLACES - warm up your home
HEALTH
77
111 113
BEAT THE BUG - health tips for fighting flu NEWS - beauty launches & health events
WEDDINGS
ARTS
How to find your dream dress
119 120
ARTS COLUMN - Collette Hoefkens
125
NORFOLK - listings, King’s Lynn focus & Great
NEWS - the latest news and exhibitions
AREA FOCUS Yarmouth events
135 145
CAMBRIDGESHIRE - events and Newmarket ESSEX - what’s on and Bishop’s Stortford & its nearby towns
151 157
83
WEDDINGS
BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS - shows and Harpenden SUFFOLK - out and about and Stowmarket focus
Beautiful bridal accessories
eastlife.co.uk | 11
our comfortable coach service to
Cambridge, St Neots, Bedford, Milton Keynes & Oxford Cambridge St Neots
Bedford
Wyboston Roxton Great Barford
Milton Keynes Buckingham Bicester Oxford
up to every 30 mins daily
01234 220 030
stagecoachx5.com XX | eastlife.co.uk X5_March 2014 - 168x240.indd 1
10/02/2014 11:33:22
AROUND THE REGION
Around the Region Latest News from
Ely Apple Festival
New openings at Centre:mk
H
ermes Real Estate has announced global lifestyle brand, Cath Kidston, will be joining the retail line up at centre:mk.
The 2,570 sq ft store is due to open on Silbury Arcade this autumn. The news follows Cath Kidston’s pop-up kiosk at Centre:mk, which traded successfully last Christmas. The permanent store is adjacent to House of Fraser, Kurt Geiger and the recently announced White Company flagship. A MuradSpace counter will also launch at John Lewis, at Centre:mk on 9 September. Murad skincare was founded 25 years ago by world-renowned dermatologist Dr. Murad. MuradSpace will not only offer all his high-performance skin solutions, it also offers visitors the opportunity to experience a free Skin Health Assessment, which replicates a visit with him. Visitors can enjoy an express facial at the counter or a full length facial in the treatment room and try a complimentary YouthCam skin analysis. Turn to page 113 for an exclusive review of the latest MuradSpace at John Lewis, Cambridge.
E
ly will hold its annual Apple Festival in celebration of the great British Apple on 18 October.
The event has developed into one of the best festivals in the area and provides interest and intrigue for all sorts of people whether you are interested in the educational, environmental or simply the fun angle of the day. Experts from East of England Apples and Orchard Project will once again be in attendance to identity any apples that you care to bring along - if you have been mystified as to what kind of apples were growing in your garden all these years, bring a sample along. There will be several competitions, storytelling and activities running throughout the day including the ever-popular longest apple peeling competition, apple and spoon races, and an apple shy. The day will also include wood burning and cooking demonstrations. Apple delights can be tasted at the Watergull Orchards marquee where a whole range of apples and juices are on offer. There will also be refreshments available. For further information contact Ely Tourist Information Centre. 29 St Mary’s Street, Ely, Cambs, CB7 4HF. Tel: 01353 662062 or visit www.visitely.org.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 13
A whole day of non-stop family fun & adventure in the forest!
T: 0845 094 9741 www.goape.co.uk
T: 01842 810090 www.bikeartthetford.co.uk
Directions: High Lodge is situated in Thetford Forest on the B1107. Sat Nav: IP27 0AF. Open every day (excluding Christmas Day). Discovery Pass available. All cars and minibuses must pay a site entry fee. Additional charges for Go Ape & bike hire. For more info call 01842 815434.
XX | eastlife.co.uk
1152 HL advert_East Life March Ed.indd 1
T: 01842 813949 www.highlodge-catering.co.uk
East Life/1152 HL/Jan2014©Crown copyright
• Play areas for all ages • Walking and cycling trails • Go Ape & Tree Top Junior • Bike shop & hire from BikeArt • Forest Segway • Cafe
forestry.gov.uk/highlodge 20/01/2014 12:02
AROUND THE REGION The Gonville Hotel has been recognised as a Green Leader
Yesterday’s World is on a mission
B Y
esterday’s World in Great Yarmouth is on a mission to make its museum even more fun for children in 2015 by adding new and interactive activities and displays. To help them come up with ideas and inspiration they’re looking for a new member of its team. No one knows what kids like better than kids themselves therefore it is looking for a Chief (Child) Ambassador to help it decide on activities and displays to be added to the collection ready for 2015. The role means that the successful candidate will get to see their own ideas come to life and have a very real say in what new things there are to see and do at the museum next year. The role will be perfect for someone who loves history and learning about how history helped shaped the world today. The ideal candidate will have at least 3 years’ experience in knowing how to have fun and an imagination that knows no bounds! To be considered for the role of Yesterday’s World Chief (Child) Ambassador applicants must be aged eight or under on 1 March 2015 and have a really cheeky smile as they’ll be the face of the museum starring in a new promotional video. In return for all their hard work (well fun work!) the successful candidate will receive an annual pass to Yesterday’s World plus plenty of goodies. To apply for the position of Yesterday’s World Chief (Child) Ambassador candidates should write a covering letter of no more than 100 words explaining why they think they are perfect for the role and send it to hello@yesterdaysworld.co.uk Applications close on September 30th 2014. Terms and conditions can be found at www.yesterdaysworld.co.uk.
est Western PLUS The Gonville Hotel, Cambridge has been awarded the first Green Leader in Cambridge from Trip advisor. The programme identifies establishments that are committed to green practices like recycling, water efficiency and alternative energy. Overlooking Parker’s Piece, the hotel has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment of its Atruim Restaurant and reception. The Atrium now steps out of the shadow and has become a destination in its own right with a menu that combines traditional British fare with contemporary re-imaginings. The Trip Advisor Green Leader award has been followed by Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence 2014, AA’s Four Star upgrade, recognising the hotel’s commitment to customer service and its professional and welcoming staff. The management at the Gonville continues to make significant changes to the property. The Norfolk Food & Drink Festival
T
he Norfolk Food & Drink Festival 2014 now in its 10th year promises another six weeks of fabulous foodie events all over the county from Saturday 30 August to Sunday 12 October. The festival is a celebration of the thriving food and drink industry in Norfolk and has become the largest event of its kind in the UK, with producers and retailers from all over the county taking part in the many delicious food experiences, lively debates and fun foodie activities over the festival’s six weeks. Highlights include Norwich Restaurant Week. Taking place 1 - 7 Sept, the city’s eateries will feature all kinds of special menus, dishes, offers, activities and events. Porkstock will be held on 27 Sept and will celebrate local produce and of course, pork. The free event will include regular cooking demos, foodies workshops and fun piggy based activites for children of all ages. By night Porkstock becomes a celebration of live music, great beer and of course some tasty food. eastlife.co.uk | 15
Celebrating the Red Arrows’ 50th Display Season From The Beatles to Bolero, Queen to Sir Andrew Lloyd-Webber, Big Band to Puccini, the programme of music spans the past five decades and reflects the colour, flamboyance and entertainment provided by ‘Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines’
Sunday 23 November Cliffs Pavilion, Southend 01702 351 135 www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk
Saturday 6 December Ipwich Regent 01473 433 100 www.ipswichregent.com
Sunday 7 December Theatre Royal, Norwich 01603 630 000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk Featuring:
The Bands of The Royal Air Force
Conductor: Wing Commander Duncan Stubbs Compered by either: Alan Dedicoat or Lynn Bowles Ticket prices:
£23.00 £20.00 £17.00
Transaction fees may apply
For more information please go to:
rafinconcert.com XX | eastlife.co.uk
AROUND THE REGION 70 years of Lady Florence
The Cambridge Film Festival
T T
he renowned Lady Florence, which offers leisurely viewing of Orford Ness from the river while dining aboard, will celebrate its 70th birthday this year. Having commenced cruising the calm waters of the Rivers Alde and Ore thirty years ago, Lady Florence has a fantastic history and is registered with the National Historic Ships’ Register. It was one of over eleven hundred motor fishing vessels (MFVs) built by the Admiralty during World War II and serviced battleships from Plymouth, then moved to Portsmouth with the Royal Marines’ Cliff Assault Wing Commando. At over 50 feet long, Lady Florence offers an enjoyable way of seeing the River Alde or Ore. It carries twelve passengers in spacious comfort with dining available. Tel: 01473 558 712
The Ark is back in town
A
fter a few years off the radar The Ark, in Bishop Stortford’s town centre is coming back with a bang. Under new ownership, the quirky little bar located just off the High Street, will be serving a revised menu of classic aperitifs, craft beers, dazzling cocktails and delicious hot and cold bar food all day. There has been an amend to opening hours and The Ark will now be open from 12pm everyday until 12am Sunday to Wednesday and 2am on Thursday to Saturday. 3 Church St, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23 2LY. Tel: 01279 651489
he Cambridge Film Festival, the UK’s third longestrunning film festival returns for its 34th edition, 28 August – 7 September at the Arts Picturehouse and other venues across Cambridge. One of the UK’s most prestigious and well-respected film festivals, with a growing international reputation, the Cambridge Film Festival is operated by the charitable Cambridge Film Trust and funded by BFI Film Forever. Known for its diverse programme of films and special events, the festival opens with ‘The Kidnapping of the Michel Houellebecq’, presented by director Guillaume Nicloux. The festival will feature a number of special guests including writer/director Rowan Joffe and novelist SJ Watson who will present ‘Before I Go To Sleep’, an amnesiac thriller starring Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth and Mark Strong. Skip Kite will present his timely tribute to a true national treasure,’Tony Benn: Will and Testament’, which won the Audience Award at Edinburgh. The festival will include a much-loved mixture of favourite film and television characters old and new, presented in a family-friendly environment, at an affordable price. Broad themes include ‘Superheroes’ with screenings of ‘Superman’, ‘Superman 2’, ‘Monster’s University’ and sing-a-long ‘Frozen’. In addition there is a special School of Slapstick filmmaking workshops, encouraging young audiences to come along and create, shoot and star in their own short silent comedy film, working with a professional theatre tutor and cameraman. The festival will supply the props and costumes – with participants supplying the comic genius. The popular ‘Not So Silent Movies’ show of classic silent comedy shorts presented by Neil Brand returns for a third installment. The programme also features a special screening of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)’ to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the publication of the Roald Dahl classic. There will also be a showcase of cinematic experiences, documentaries and exciting emerging talent to name a few. If you’re a film buff, simply love the arts or just love watching films this is an event not to be missed. eastlife.co.uk | 17
18 | eastlife.co.uk
GAINSBOROUGH’S HOUSE
GAINSBOROUGH’S HOUSE SHOWCASES THE LIFE AND WORK OF THE ARTIST THOMAS GAINSBOROUGH (1727-1788), ONE OF THE GREATEST PAINTERS IN THE HISTORY OF BRITISH ART.
Autumn exhibitions include: Rembrandt the Printmaker, Karl Friedrich Abel (1723-1787) Composer and Concert Impresario and William Woollett’s Engraving of the The Death of General Wolfe. Forthcoming exhibitions will include the theme of satire. The work on permanent display allows you to explore Gainsborough’s whole career, from early portraits and landscapes to later works from his London period.
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 10am - 5pm Sunday 11am - 5pm Closed: Good Friday and between Christmas and New Year Gainsborough’s House, 46 Gainsborough Street, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2EU Telephone: 01787 372958 Email: mail@gainsborough.org www.gainsborough.org
Gainsborough’s House Society no 214046
© The British Museum
eastlife.co.uk | 19
LIFESTYLE
Centre Stage New theatre season line up announced
I
t’s that exciting time of year when our favourite theatres and venues announce their autumn/ winter productions. What will you be singing along to this season? Which celebs will be gracing their presence at this year’s pantos? Keep reading to find out…
Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk There’s a busy season ahead at Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds. The autumn season kicks off with ‘Three Men in a Boat’, 4 - 12 September. Following a sell-out hit tour in 2012, Craig Gilbert’s ingenious, acclaimed adaption of Jerome K Jerome’s classic tale of boating misadventure returns. Jerome’s ripping yarn of youthful friendship, mischief and folly celebrates the very essence of Britishness. The following months see the likes of ‘You’re Never Too Old’, ‘Private Peaceful’ and ‘Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice’ come to the stage, while this year’s panto will be Cinderella. Showing from 28 November to 11 January the traditional, fun-filled, family panto will once again serve up a sparkling festive treat filled with catchy songs, silly jokes, and a sprinkling of magic. Packed with dastardly villains, miraculous mice, swirling dresses and some stupendous slapstick, you’re sure to have a ball! Box office: 01284 769505
Mercury Theatre, Colchester, Essex This festive season Cinderella will also be gracing the stage at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester. In Stoneybroke Hall the wicked Baroness Evilla is forcing poor Cinderella to live an awful life as a cleaner, cook, maid and all-round slave. When the Prince of Colchester Castle proclaims his plan to pick a princess at a posho party, Cinders’ ugly step-sisters set out to take his hand in marriage…by force if necessary! Cinderella’s happiness depends on her best friend Buttons. Find out if the Baroness Evilla will be defeated and if Cinderella’s slipper will size up? The season also sees the Shakespearean classic ‘Macbeth’ come to the stage in October and plenty of family friendly entertainment such as ‘Friend and Foe’ until 13 September, ‘Hare and Tortoise’ from 30 October to 1 November and the comical ‘Dracula’, 30 October to 16 November. Box office: 01206 573948
20 | eastlife.co.uk
LIFESTYLE
Gordon Craig Theatre, Stevenage, Herts For a magical theatre experience this winter head to Gordon Craig for a colourful production of Aladdin, starring the multi-talented Shaun Williams! Famous for his role as Barry Evans from Eastenders, Shaun will be showing his evil side as Abanazaar – the man determined to spoil the hero of the show’s plans. Taking place 28 November to 25 January, the pantomime also sees the return of Stevenage’s favourite Dame, Paul Laidlaw, as Widow Twankey. With two fantastic performers at the helm, this is one show not to be missed! Box Office: 01438 363200
The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk This month The Apex will be hosting two fantastic nights, not to be missed! Saturday 13 September sees the return of ‘Saturday Night Fights’. Boxing in Bury will show U.S. Servicemen versus the UK’s best in 10 classic bouts, including USA star James Beck in the EBL East of England Middleweight Championship rematch, and the UK’s up & coming Rusty Brown competing for the EBL Middleweight Championship of Great Britain. There will also be a charity auction of exclusive sports memorabilia, celebrity guest appearances and a live DJ and MC. Staying true to its reputation as the home of live music in East Anglia, The Apex will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of Nik Kershaw’s first chart success, with songs such as ‘Wouldn’t it Be Good’, ‘I Won’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me’ and ‘The Riddle’. Nik will perform songs and stories from his career and take (potentially) awkward questions from the audience. This is a rare opportunity to experience an intimate evening with the man, famously described by Elton John as “the best song writer of a generation”. Box office: 01284 758000
eastlife.co.uk | 21
Thu 13 Nov
‘White Christmas’ the Musical
£60.00
Sat 22 Nov
The Shard & Festive Afternoon Tea
£65.00
THURSFORD CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Tue 01 Dec
£51.00
Wed 03 Dec
£51.00
Brick Lane Music Hall & Festive Lunch £65.00
Tue 09 Dec
£48.00
Tue 02 Dec
Mystery Tour & Festive Afternoon Tea £25.00
Thu 04 Dec
Bure Valley Railway & Festive Lunch £42.50
Sat 13 Dec
£53.00
Sun 07 Dec
London Eye & Christmas Lunch Cruise £65.00
Sun 14 Dec
£53.00
Sun 14 Dec
Gt Yarmouth Circus & Water Show
Tue 16 Dec
£51.00
Sun 14 Dec
Santa’s Magical Journey at Thursford
Wed 17 Dec
£51.00
Thu 18 Dec
£51.00
Fri 19 Dec
£48.00
Sat 20 Dec
£50.00
Sat 29 Nov
Portsmouth Christmas Market
Sun 30 Nov
Birmingham International Tattoo
Mon 01 Dec
From £37.00 £45.00
£30.00
Child £26.00 Adult £20.00 CO-OP JUNIORS CHRISTMAS SHOW Fri 12 Dec
£25.00
Sat 13 Dec
Fri 19 Dec
£25.00
Sat 20 Dec £29.00
All shows commence at 4pm
£27.00
All dates stop at Swaffham so you can wander off to get some lunch (not included) and are matinees.
Abacus House, 5 Station Yard, Needham Market, Ipswich IP6 8AS 01449 721141 / 01473 744442
22 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 23
24 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 25
LIFESTYLE
Seasonal Cooking Inspiration Tuck into a brilliant collection of recipes created by some of the regions top chefs
A
utumn is a time of year when fantastic ingredients come into season. September brings a harvest of juicy plums, apples and wild blackberries and though pumpkins tend to hog the limelight during October, the game season comes into play as the weather cools with pheasant and guinea fowl offering rich autumnal flavours. It’s a fabulous time of year where you can try your hand at seasonal dishes such as risottos, chutneys and soups. As the nights draw in, try these filling and satisfying recipes suggested by some of the regions talented head chefs…
Pork Ends, Braised Lentils, Shallot, Hazelnut & Tarragon Dressing by Benny Peverelli, co-owners and head chef of Pint Shop, Cambridge Benny has offered the secret to this delicious dish, which was on Pint Shop’s first menu when it opened last year. It proved to be so popular that it had to be left on for another menu. There are a few steps to this dish but it is well worth the effort. Feeds six hungry folks (start 3 days before you want to eat) Pork Ends Brine (the ribs can be cooked without the brine, but the dish is all the better for it) Pork Ribs (Cut Length way) 1kg Demera Sugar 100g Table Salt 100g Pork End Braise Pork Ribs (Washed with water) Dijon 1 tbsp Orange Marmalade 100g Worcestershire sauce 1tbsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground) 1 pinch Fennel seeds (toasted & crushed) 2tsp Caster Sugar 1 tbsp Braised Lentils Rapeseed oil 2tbsp Smoked Streaky Bacon (chopped) 4 rashes Celery (finely diced) 1 stick Onions (finely diced) 1 small one Carrots (finely diced) 1 small one Bouquet garni (Bay, thyme, parsley stalks – tied) 1Garlic (crushed) 1 clove Chicken stock 500ml & Puy Lentils 150g 26 | eastlife.co.uk
LIFESTYLE
Shallot, Hazelnut & Tarragon Dressing Dijon Mustard 1 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar (Modena) ½ tbsp Walnut oil 4 tbsp Shallots (finely diced) 1 Tarragon (picked & roughly chopped) 2 sprigs Method – Brining and braising the ribs 1.Dry cure the ribs in the salt & sugar mix for three days, turning every day to ensure an even cure. 2. Day 3 - rinse the ribs in running water for 20mins to remove the excess salt 3. Combine the ‘Pork end Braise’ mix and rub all over the pork ribs and place into oven dish and tightly wrap with foil, slow cook in 100°c oven for six hours 4. Cool these down then cut into riblets by cutting between the ribs, set aside for grilling/BBQ and add back to the sticky pan juices Method – Braising the lentils and knocking up the dressing 1.In a heavy based saucepan, heat the oil to a medium heat and add the bacon and fry until crispy, then remove the bacon leaving oil behind, set aside for later 2. Add the vegetables and bouquet garni and sweat the veg until soft and slightly caramelised 3. Add the garlic and cook out for five minutes without colouring 4. Add the lentils and then increase the heat to high and add the sherry vinegar and reduce until evaporated 5. Now add the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Cover with Cartouche. 6. Place in the oven on 140°c and cook for 40-60 mins until the lentils are tender but not mushy, they should retain a light bite. 7. Once cooked season with salt and pepper, add the crispy bacon and place onto tray to cool 8. For the dressing, lightly mix all the ingredients together 9. Add ½ of the dressing to the cooled lentils, the rest leave until the end Method – Finishing and serving 1. Fire up the grill on high or the BBQ (if you’re going to follow with a serious steak?) 2. Rub the Riblets with the pan juices and grill until crisp and hot 3. Pile the Lentils on a serving plate, place the riblets on top and scatter with the remaining dressing over & tuck in.
Roast Leg Partridge with Celeriac Puree, Game Chips & Red Currant Jelly by Justin Kett, head chef of The Swan at Lavenham, Suffolk Serves 4 4 x Whole Red Leg Partridge 50g Cream and Butter 1x Celeriac 1 x Potato 1 x Clove Garlic 1 x Shallot 1 x Small Cabbage 4 x Heads Purple Sprouting Broccoli 2 x Courgettes Salt and Pepper Vegetable Oil, Red Wine, Chicken Stock 250ml Method 1.Peel and dice celeriac into 3cm dice along with the potato, shallot and garlic, then cover with water and milk (half and half) and cook 2. Once it has cooked thoroughly pass off the milk and water and keep to one side. Now put the celeriac and potato mix in a food processor and blitz adding the butter, salt, pepper and cream, then get to puree consistency by adding the cooking liquor a little at a time, pass through a fine sieve and set aside. 3. Prepare all the vegetables as you would normally and have a pan of boiling salted water ready. Remove any excess feathers from the partridges and the wish bone (it will make it easier to carve) 4. Have a heavy body frying pan getting hot on the stove, then add a splash of vegetable oil and seal the partridges all over then place in the oven for 8-12 minutes at 180°c (8 for pink, 12 for more well done). While they are roasting start cooking your vegetables and heating up the celeriac puree, adjusting the seasoning where necessary. 5. Remove partridges from oven and rest for 4 minutes. Place a good splash of red wine in the pan you cooked the birds in and reduce by half, then add the chicken stock. 6. On your four plates arrange the vegetables and the celeriac puree then de-bone the partridges and place on top of the greens and spoon over some of the pan juices.
eastlife.co.uk | 27
LIFESTYLE
Bargain Breaks With the kids back at school, now is the time to snap up a great (and cheap) getaway
E
veryone knows that when school’s out finding a short break or weekend getaway at a great price is a tough job. This summer as temperatures soared so did the prices, but now the kids are back in the classroom there’s some amazing deals for us adults to enjoy. With romantic trips, foodie festivals and spa packages available at prices that won’t break the bank it’s time to pack your bags and enjoy a relaxing holiday. Aldeburgh food fest If you love your food then at the end of this month head to Aldeburgh for the town’s Food and Drink Festival and Fringe. Throughout the festival both the sea-facing White Lion Hotel and its seafront sister hotel, the Brudenell in Aldeburgh will host a variety of events from 27th September until 9th October including gourmet wine dinners, meet the chef demonstrations, workshops, battle of the chefs and a progressive dinner with each course at a different restaurant. Prices per night from £105. Image: The Brudenell in Aldeburgh
If you can’t wait until then and want to get away at this very moment then take advantage of the Brudenell Hotel’s last minute seaside escape available until the 30th September. The hotel has just opened an AA two rosette Seafood & Grill restaurant and sea-facing terrace, and is offering a one night dinner, B&B stay from £110 per person including a cream tea with a glass of Prosecco on arrival. White Lion Hotel, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh, Suffolk, IP15 5BJ. Tel: 01728 452720 Brudenell Hotel, The Parade, Aldeburgh, Suffolk, IP15 5BU. Tel: 01728 452071 Romantic escape For a weekend of romance whisk your partner away to The Parisian. An exquisitely designed luxury selfcatering cottage in Stamford, the home is a dreamy abode for lovebirds looking for a romantic break. Stamford´s famous water meadows are an idyllic place for a romantic stroll, take some bread to feed the ducks and enjoy the late afternoon sun sparkling on the river. This month The Parisian is the perfect place to stay during the popular Burghley Horse Trails taking place 4 to 7 September. The Burghley Horse Trials offers exclusive entertaining facilities at its prime location against the backdrop of the magnificent Elizabethan Burghley House. The three disciplines of the 3-day event are designed to be a complete test of horsemanship. Surprisingly this fabulous property is still available during the weekend of the event, but with this secret now out of the bag, you’ll need to be super fast to snap it up! For a three-night stay The Parisian is priced at £630 and is available to book at Unique Home Stays. www.theparisian.uniquehomestays.com
28| eastlife.co.uk
LIFESTYLE
Clarice House The Parisian
The Lifehouse
Pamper package There’s nothing better than a day or weekend of pampering. If you’re feeling exhausted after the six weeks holiday or just fancy giving yourself a little treat, take a trip to The Lifehouse Spa in Frinton-onSea. Set in beautifully landscaped grounds and just a short distance from the sandy shores of Frinton, The Lifehouse Spa offers fabulous leisure and spa facilities and a great restaurant and café serving delicious healthy cuisine. There’s a whole range of money saving packages available. Try the Love Life Break from £112pp, which includes a one night stay, two-course dinner, breakfast, 25 minute treatment from a selected menu and full use of the spa and grounds. There’s also a Pamper & Presecco break from £149 and a two-night stay for just £149.50. The Lifehouse Spa, Frinton Road, Thorpe-le-Soken, Essex, CO16 0JD. Tel: 01255 860050
Spa savings For great savings on spa breaks head to SpaSeekers.com where you’ll find a super saving of 62 per cent at Clarice House Health Spa, Bury St Edmunds. Clarice House has all the key ingredients for a great spa experience. The luxurious venue features state-of-the-art spa facilities and great treatments delivered by experienced, enthusiastic therapists and delicious meals served in the award-winning restaurant. The two for one Supreme Pamper Day offers the opportunity to relax with a friend or relative with prices from £170 per package. The package focuses on pure, unbridled indulgence and is inclusive of a range of relaxing treatments, full use of the facilities and lunch. Clarice House, Horringer Road, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP29 5PH. Tel: 024 7671 6192 www.spaseekers.com eastlife.co.uk | 29
XX | eastlife.co.uk
LIFESTYLE
ADVERTORIAL
Discover the new Honda Civic Black Edition
I
ntroducing the new Black Edition with low monthly payments starting at £249, with 0 per cent APR over three years and a £500 deposit contribution. As part of the summer campaign which runs until September 30th, Honda (UK) is also continuing to bring down the cost of motoring with very special offers on the entire Civic range. The Civic hatchback is now available from £239 per month for the 1.8 SE Plus, from £249 per month for the 1.6 i-DTEC, and the recently introduced and highly acclaimed Civic Tourer from just £249 per month. All models also benefit from three year’s 0 per cent APR and up to £500 deposit contribution. What’s more, all customers ordering a new retail Honda throughout the campaign have the option of a comprehensive care plan for the fixed price of just £555. Offering five years servicing, warranty and roadside assistance, the plan gives potential savings of up to £1,290 and complete peace of mind that most of the major running costs are covered for the next five years. The new Civic Black Edition available with either
the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel or 1.8 i-VTEC petrol engines, combines a number of gloss black elements to give a bold look with attitude. Black front and side skirts and rear bumper garnish work together to create a dynamic profile that captures the attention and creates a lasting impression from all angles. An aluminium badge features the Black Edition logo, while the gloss black roof spoiler accentuates the car’s dynamic shape. This bold look is completed by perfectly integrated covers for the side mirrors and a gloss black fuel lid cover. - New Civic Black Edition, with fixed price 5 year care package and low monthly payments across the range - New Civic Black Edition from just £249 per month with three year’s 0 per cent APR and £500 deposit contribution - Comprehensive care plan offering FIVE years servicing, warranty and roadside assistance for a fixed price of just £555 For more details contact www.ipswich-honda.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 31
LIFESTYLE
The Mercedes C-Class at its Best The all-new C-Class heralds a new chapter in the MercedesBenz success story and sets new standards in the premium mid-range class
T
he C-Class is the biggest-selling model series from Mercedes-Benz. Sales of the preceding model, which was launched in 2007, total over 2.4 million (165,194 units in the UK). The new C-Class offers sensuous and clear design and a host of technical innovations as well as a comprehensive scope of standard equipment and exemplary emission and fuel consumption values. Thanks to an intelligent lightweight design concept boasting weight savings of up to 100 kilograms, excellent aerodynamics and new, economical engines, the C-Class establishes new benchmarks in its class. A host of new assistance systems offer safety of the highest standard, while a new suspension, optionally air-sprung, provides for exemplary ride and driving comfort as well as nimble and agile handling. Appearance In terms of appearance, the new C-Class adopts a progressive approach with its clear yet emotional design and its high-class interior. Many other innovations and interior touches underscore the Saloon’s comfort and refined sportiness. In all, the perceived quality of the new C-Class feels like an “upgrade to a higher class of travel”. On a visual level, the new C-Class represents a bold departure from its predecessor. Its striking, dynamic design exudes sensuous clarity and arouses emo32 | eastlife.co.uk
tions. Nature was a source of inspiration for the new Saloon’s aesthetically sensuous lines and surfaces, whose harmony and dynamism create an immediate effect. The designers have created minimalist, purist forms for the C-Class, which emphasize its intelligent technology and engineering. The clearly defined surfaces deliberately display a degree of tension, lending them a muscular and sensuous character. Precise lines and sculptural surfaces create lively light and shade effects. Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design Daimler AG, notes: “The new C-Class showcases automotive passion by way of a contemporary design idiom. Progressive and emotional highlights underscore the ground breaking design style. It interprets modern luxury on a new level.” Finer details The Mercedes-Benz designers have styled the interior on a level which is rarely encountered even in higher vehicle categories. This applies to the carefully chosen high-class materials and their pleasant touch and feel as well as the precision of the finely crafted details. The interior also embodies a new design idiom, which combines sensuousness and clarity perfectly with dynamic sportiness and contributes to the quality feel of the interior. The interior design demonstrates a bold new approach by Mercedes-Benz. Here the designers
LIFESTYLE
combine in accomplished style the architecture of Mercedes-Benz sports cars with an all new centre console featuring flowing lines. A centrally positioned free-standing central display is the main eye-catching feature across the centre console, while five round air vents lend the dashboard a sporty touch. The body-in-white provides an innovative basis for reduced weight, outstanding rigidity for excellent handling, combined with optimum noise and vibration characteristics and a high level of crash safety. A completely new multimedia generation offers intuitive operation featuring elaborate animations and visual effects, which present all the functions in a clear and highly attractive manner. It’s also equipped with the Frontbass system. This avantgarde acoustic system uses the space within the cross-member and side member in the body structure as a resonance chamber for the bass speakers to conjure up a listening experience almost on a par with a concert hall. The navigation system presents its contents in interactive mode. Its features include an animated compass, a “Drive Show” with information for passengers similar to the on-screen presentations on board aeroplanes and Google Maps displayed on the head unit. The navigation system is also able to provide more accurate real-time information about the situation on the roads when it receives its traffic data via internet by means of the “Live Traffic Information” service. Efficiency Low drag is crucial to achieving outstanding efficiency. From a speed of just under 43 mph, aerodynamic drag exceeds the sum total of all other driving resistance factors. As such, drag constitutes a major parameter in efforts to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. With a Cd value of 0.24 for the C 220 BlueTEC ECO, the new C-Class Saloon
sets a new benchmark in the mid-range segment. The wind noise level, which was already very low in the preceding generation of the C-Class, has been lowered still further. Powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines, all equipped with the ECO start/stop function and complying with the Euro 6 emissions standard, provide for lively performance and great driving enjoyment. They also cut fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent compared with the preceding model. Suspension – sporty yet comfortable The suspension on the new C-Class is an all-new development. It provides for nimble and agile handling that makes driving a great pleasure on winding roads while also offering the highest standard of ride comfort in the segment. A newly designed 4-link front axle plays a major part in the agile handling characteristics. Thanks to the 4-link principle, the front independent suspension is fully decoupled from the spring strut. Axle kinematics allow more grip and higher lateral stability. As a result, the suspension responds more sensitively to steering movements and allows a sporty, agile driving style. An optimised multi-link independent rear suspension with 5-link concept ensures unsurpassed wheel location qualities and supreme straight-line stability. “Mercedes at its best - that’s the new C-Class, which sets new standards for the mid-range segment on many fronts,” says Prof. Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “It is characterised by an emotional yet clear design which is continued in the high-quality and modern interior. Its efficient and high-performance engineering provides the basis for a high standard of driving enjoyment.” For more details visit www.yourmercedes.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 33
34 | eastlife.co.uk
EDUCATION
School Open Days Your guide to this year’s open days
A
recent survey by Action for Children revealed that more than a third of parents in the East of England (35 per cent) worry their children won’t make friends when they start school. With so many concerns and options available choosing the right school can be a difficult task. To make life a little easier we’ve put together a handy guide of forthcoming open days to suit all ages and abilities…
CAMBRIDGESHIRE Cambridge Regional College A highly-rated further education college with excellent full-time and part-time courses, the next open days will take place Fri 7 – Sat 8 November. Science Park Campus, Kings Hedges Rd, Cambridge, CB4 2QT Tel: 01223 418200 Huntingdonshire Regional College Offering a wide range of training programmes from full-time and part-time courses to apprenticeships and work place learning, the next open day will take place Wednesday 22 October. California Rd, Huntingdon, PE29 1BL Tel: 01480 379100 Peterborough Regional College A further education college based in the heart of Peterborough, the next open day will take place Monday 13th October. Park Crescent, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE1 4DZ Tel: 0845 872 8722 The Peterborough School The Peterborough School’s next open day will be held on Saturday 11th October from 10.30am to 3.30pm. The Nursery will also be open during these times and will welcome visitors without appointment. The Sixth Form Open Evening will take place on Tuesday 21st October from 6.30pm. Thorpe Road, Peterborough, PE3 6AP Tel: 01733 343357
eastlife.co.uk | 35
XX | eastlife.co.uk
EDUCATION CAMBRIDGESHIRE continued... Stamford High School The Stamford School (Boys 11-18) and Stamford High School (Girls 11-18) open day will take place Saturday 1 October, while Stamford Junior School and Earlybird Nursery (Girls and Boys 2-11) will be on Saturday 8th October, followed by Sixth Form (Girls and Boys 16-18) on Tuesday 11th October. Southfields House, St Paul’s St, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2BQ Tel: 01780 750300 Kimbolton School An independent co-educational day and boarding School, autumn open days commence Saturday 4 October: Prep School: 9.30am to 11.30am, Senior School: 10am to 12pm, Sixth Form: presentation starts at 10.30am. Kimbolton, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, PE28 0EA Tel: 01480 860505
BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Bedford Girls’ School The school boasts excellent facilities alongside outstanding results in GCSE, A level and the rarely available, globally renowned, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Bedford Girls’ School welcomes families to their next open morning on Saturday 11 October at 10am, as well as offering personal visits by prior arrangement. Cardington Road, Bedford, MK42 0BX Tel: 01234 361900
Queenswood Queenswood is a progressive Boarding and Day School for around 400 girls, aged between 11 and 18, where boarders make up more than half of the School. An allround education focuses on equipping the girls with all the life skills required of women in the 21st century. Open days will take place Wednesday 1 October, Saturday 11 October and Saturday 19 November. Shepherds Way, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 6NS Tel: 01707 602500 St Albans School St Albans is an independent academic day school offering a first rate education in an environment rich in opportunities. The School’s curriculum is under constant review in order to respond to the changes and challenges of education. Autumn open days take place 11 October, 9 November and 6 December. Abbey Mill Lane, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4HB Tel: 01727 855521 Howe Green House School Bishop’s Stortford Howe Green House School has created a family orientated environment where effective communication is key to its on-going success. The school will welcome new Headmistress Mrs Debbie Mills, who takes over at the start of the new academic year. Great Hallingbury, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM22 7UF Tel: 01279657706
St Francis’ College A girls school offering an excellent, modern education based on traditional values, an autumn open day will be held Saturday 4 October. Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, SG6 3PJ Tel: 01462 670511 Northampton High School An independent day school for girls aged from 3 - 18 years, an open day will be held Saturday 11 October. Newport Pagnell Road, Hardingstone, Northamptonshire, NN4 6UU Tel: 01604 765765 Kingshott School At Kingshott emphasis is placed on making the learning experience as enriching as possible and provides an outstanding co-educational learning experience for children aged 3 to 13. The next open day will take place Saturday 15 November, 10am to 12.30pm. Stevenage Road, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG4 7JX Tel: 01462 432009 Bedford Girl’s School
eastlife.co.uk | 37
At Maltings Academy we believe that meeting the needs of each individual learner and helping them to realise their potential is central to effective learning and teaching. Our students enjoy opportunities to work as a part of groups as well as developing their own independent learning skills. We are able to provide this individualised approach through our effective assessment of our students’ capabilities. Demanding targets are set which challenge our students and encourage them to strive to achieve their best and more. Beyond the classroom, our students are provided with an extensive range of opportunities and we encourage everyone to participate in extra curricular activities according to their talents and interests. From chess to trampolining, dance to IT there is an activity to inspire every child. We aim to develop our students morally, spiritually, physically and socially as part of the all-round high quality educational experience we are delivering to all students who attend the Academy. Much of our success depends upon appropriate curricula, informed by current knowledge and best practice. We aim to meet the needs of every student through our provision of vocational through to highly academic courses, from our gifted and talented programme to our learning support provision. Our specialisms of sport and science provide opportunities for every student to develop their potential. I believe wholeheartedly that our Academy status, in partnership with New Rickstones Academy, gives us a real opportunity to transform the provision of education in Witham, and provide our young people with the skills and aspirations they need to lead happy, successful lives. Our results for the last three years have shown rapid progress and staff, carers,westudents thethe local canlearner be proud of them At parents, Maltings Academy believe thatand meeting needscommunity of each individual and helping their achievements. to realise their potential is central to effective learning and teaching. Our students enjoy opportunities to work as a part of groups as well as developing their own independent learning skills. We are able is to harness momentum and buildofon expanding to Our providejob thisnow individualised approachthis through our effective assessment ourit, students' capabilities. this success into every area of our students’ lives. Demanding targets are set which challenge our students and encourage them to strive to achieve Our their bestunderlying and more. vision is an Academy based on a culture of high expectation and achievement within a caring community, with a focus Beyond the classroom, our students areimproved provided withfacilities, an extensivewhich range ofinclude opportunities and on Sport and Science. Our a state weofencourage to participate extra curricular activitieswill according to theirthis talents and the arteveryone new campus, andin tailored curricula, support vision, interests. From us chesstotodeliver trampolining, dance to IT there is an activity to inspire child. We aim to enabling personalised learning in a way thatevery encourages develop our studentsand morally, spiritually, physically and socially part ofindividual the all-roundstudent’s high quality participation achievement, tailored to suitaseach educational experience are delivering to all students who attend the Academy. particular talentsweand interests.
Much of our success depends upon appropriate curricula, informed by current knowledge and best I lookWeforward to the welcoming you to the Maltings Academy community practice. aim to meet needs of every student through our provision of vocational through to highly academic courses, from our gifted and talented programme to our learning support J Szynal provision. Our specialisms of sport and science provide opportunities for every student to develop Principal. their potential.
Our aim is to equip them for the demands of the 21st century, by creating happy, confident young people. www.maltingscademy.org Spinks, Witham, Essex, CM8 1EP Telephone: 01376 512 911 XX | eastlife.co.uk
I believe wholeheartedly that our Academy status, in partnership with Greensward and New Rickstones Academies, gives us a real opportunity to transform the provision of education in Witham, and provide our young people with the skills and aspirations they need to lead happy, successful lives. Our results for the last three years have shown rapid progress and staff, parents, carers, students and the local community can be proud of their achievements. Our job now is to harness this momentum and build on it, expanding this success into every area of our students' lives. Our underlying vision is an Academy based on a culture of high expectation and achievement within a caring community, with a focus on Sport and Science. Our improved facilities, which include a state of the art new campus, and tailored curricula, will support this vision, enabling us to deliver personalised learning in a way that encourages participation and achievement, tailored to suit each individual student's particular talents and interests. I look forward to welcoming you to the Maltings Academy community
EDUCATION
Friends’ School Saffron Walden Friends’ is a co-education, Quaker day and independent school in Saffron Walden for pupils aged between 3 and 18 with a boarding school available. Pupils learn in vibrant and diverse environment. An open day will be held Saturday 11 October. Mt Pleasant Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 3EB Tel: 01799 525351 St Mary’s School for Girls For girls aged 2 to 16, open days will be available Monday 13, Thursday 16 and Saturday 18 October. 91 Lexden Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3RB Tel: 01206 572544
Dame Bradbury’s School and Kindergarten
ESSEX Dame Bradbury’s School and Kindergarten Dame Bradbury’s School and Kindergarten aims to find the best in every child, develop their confidence and prepare them for the future. There’s an exciting year ahead with brand new facilities including a fabulous library. An open morning will take place Saturday 18 October, 9.30am to 12noon. Ashdon Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 2AL Tel: 01799 522348 Colchester High School Colchester High School is Colchester’s only independent school for girls and boys from 2½ to 18 years. The school provides a caring, friendly and happy environment with small class sizes, experienced and professional teachers and an individualised learning program to ensure that each child achieves their full potential. Colchester High School Nursery is now open all year and gives their children an extremely safe and happy start to their education, laying the foundations for future success and ultimately leading to outstanding A-Level results. Open days will be held Sat 11, Tues 21 and Thurs 23 October. Wellesley Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3HD Tel: 01206 573389
Maltings Academy The academy provides the opportunity for all young learners to fulfil their real potential, broaden their horizons and become active, prosperous and successful citizens in the world around them. Contact the school directly for open days. Spinks Lane, Witham, Essex, CM8 1EP Tel: 01376 512911 Gosfield School An excellent learning environment and experienced teaching staff ensure a broad and balanced education for all pupils, while recognising that each child is an individual with particular strengths, needs and interests. Contact the school directly for open days. Cut Hedge Park, Halstead Road, Gosfield, Halstead, Essex, CO9 1PF Tel: 01787 474040 Maldon Court Prep School The school provides the highest quality education for children aged 3 to 11 years and in 2013 achieved the highest possible school inspection rating of ‘excellent’ in every area. The next open day will be 27 September. Silver Street, Maldon, Essex, CM9 4QE Tel: 01621 853529
Colchester High School
eastlife.co.uk | 39
Meet David. He wants to be on the stage. We’re going to help him get there.
Friends’ School Saffron Walden “Calm, caring place for individuals who benefit from bespoke push, stretch and support”
-The Good Schools Guide 2014
See this in action on Open Morning - Sat 11th October at 10am
www.friends.org.uk admissions@friends.org.uk 01799 525351 XX | eastlife.co.uk
EDUCATION
St Joseph’s College
SUFFOLK St Joseph’s College St Joseph’s College is renowned for the support, focus and all-round education it brings to each individual student. Head Boy for 2014-2015, Tommy Newbigging, at the College Prize Giving in July described the school as: “a family who supports any student with any problem, challenge, or achievement they have, with grace, dignity and a good heart.” With high praises from its students, it’s no surprise that achievements come in many forms at the College. Alongside its traditionally strong rugby standing with five of this year’s leavers receiving contracts at professional clubs in England and France, St Joseph’s is able to point to numerous other sporting, arts, cultural and academic successes. In recognition of its excellence in arts and cultural provision, the Arts Council England has awarded St Joseph’s Artsmark Gold status. Students regularly take on new challenges in disciplines such as music, dance, art, photography and drama again reflecting the all-round nature of the College. Autumn open days are as follows: Prep and Senior School Saturday 20 September, Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 6 November and Senior School Entrance Examination Saturday 22 November. St Joseph’s College, Belstead Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 9DR. Tel: 01473 690281
Thomas Mills High School A flourishing 11-18 high school, Thomas Mills is consistently one of the county’s highest performing schools, graded Outstanding by OFSTED. An open day will be held in October. Saxtead Road, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9HE Tel: 01728 723493 Ipswich High School for Girls The school is widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading independent schools. A whole school open day will take place Saturday 4 October, 9.30am-1pm. Woolverstone, Suffolk, IP9 1AZ, Tel: 01473 780201
eastlife.co.uk |41
42 | eastlife.co.uk
EDUCATION
NORFOLK Hethersett Old Hall School The school is one of the leading independent schools in Norfolk for boys aged 3-11 and girls aged 3-18. Its population of just 180 pupils helps maximise the potential of each individual. School open days will be held 29 September for Sixth Form and 4 October for all pupils. Norwich Road, Hethersett, Norwich, Norfolk, NR9 3DW Tel: 01603 810390 Riddlesworth Hall School Riddlesworth Hall School is an IAPS school catering for day girls and boys from 2 to 13. Boarding, whether full, part-time or ‘occasional’, is available for girls and boys from the age of 7 to 13. Taster days can be arranged by contacting the school directly. Hall Lane, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 2TA Tel: 01953 681246 Thetford Grammar School This leading independent private school’s open morning will take place Saturday 18 October. 24 Bridge Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 3AF Tel: 01842 752840
eastlife.co.uk | 43
44 | eastlife.co.uk
EDUCATION
Education Explained Choosing a school for your child can be a difficult task; we put your questions to Michael McKeaveney, a senior leader of education
A
s Harlow College Campus, Essex, prepares to launch its Sir Charles Kao University Technical College (UTC), a multi-million pound learning centre for 14 -19 year olds, Eastlife spoke to its principle Michael McKeaveney for a lowdown on the educational challenges we are sometimes faced with. What advice can you offer parents when choosing a school? You obviously need to visit schools that you are interested in, and you need to ask yourself: 1.Does the school share your beliefs and values? 2.Have you got confidence in the Headteacher/ Principal? 3.Do you believe that your child will be engaged and safe? 4.Will this school help your child get to where they want to be, whether that’s university, a job or perhaps start their own company? 5.What is the school’s track record? What research you do before choosing? For established schools, your first port of call should be the Ofsted website; read recent reports that have been published about the schools you’re interested in. Look at the schools’ results over time, are they improving? Talk to parents at the school gates, what do they think? If it’s a new school about to open, find out who is behind the school? What are their values and beliefs? Can you relate to the school’s vision? What’s the track record of the head teacher? With the Harlow UTC being brand new, we had a few canny parents who went to the parents’ evening of my last school to see what they thought of me!
How many schools on average should you view? As many as you can in your catchment area, this will help you make an informed choice. Ask yourself, which school will provide the best opportunities? How can you tell if a school is right for your child? When you visit the school, try to go in the daytime to see the working school. Open Evenings are really showcases. If you can, ask to be taken around by a senior member of staff and see lessons being taught. A good school won’t have anything to hide. My daughter’s school is changing to become an Academy - what does that mean? An academy is free from Local Authority control. The school has total control over its leadership, and its budget. It is free to buy in the best provision, and offer different pay scales to attract the best teachers. It also has control over its curriculum, I think that’s the biggest advantage, to really make learning and education bespoke. eastlife.co.uk | 45
46 | eastlife.co.uk
An all-round education, A nurturing and supportive environment, Achievements at all levels, all of the time.
St Joseph’s College
Discover what makes St Joseph’s different Prep and Senior School Open Morning Saturday 20 September, 9.30am to 12.30pm Register today by calling 01473 690281 or email Admissions@stjos.co.uk www.stjos.co.uk The independent day and boarding school for girls and boys aged 3 to 18.
be your best
eastlife.co.uk | 23
48 | eastlife.co.uk
EDUCATION
A Free School is setting up nearby - what is the difference between that school and a regular primary school? Similar answer to the above, however parents do need to investigate who is behind the school and whether that organisation sits with their own belief and values.
My son wants to go to university but I don’t think we can afford it - what should we do? Don’t worry about affording the fees, they are still means-tested and your son will pay back the fees when he is earning, and can afford it. The money is deducted at source and is only paid when your son is earning a certain amount of money.
Free Schools can be set up by parents, teachers and other chains – so do your homework.
Also, investigate bursaries and scholarships and companies who might sponsor your son’s degree.
Why are grammar schools disappearing? Education, like other public services is political. And, like other services it has trends. The current trend has moved away from selective grammar schools (which can be seen as divisive) to inclusive free schools and academies, so that all children can receive a high quality education.
Try to think of this as an investment in your son’s future, rather than a cost, and don’t forget that, generally, over a lifetime graduates earn substantially more than non-graduates.
My son’s school doesn’t offer a 6th form, I am worried about him going to college? You shouldn’t worry about this. College is very good preparation for university and employment. A college can offer opportunities that a school 6th form can’t, and it will help your child to become more self-reliant. Employers and universities will expect young people to have self-direction, they don’t spoon-feed. Colleges generally have better facilities, and in the case of Harlow College, better outcomes. They are larger organisations and your child will meet lots of new people from all walks of life, they will develop skills essential for successful higher study and the world of work.
My child doesn’t want to do A-levels and is looking at apprenticeships - is this a good path to take? It is if she/he is intent on getting straight into work. Apprenticeships are highly regarded, and young people get to earn and learn. Big companies like GlaxoSmithKline run apprenticeship schemes, and BT has more applicants wanting to do their apprenticeships than Oxbridge. Be aware that not all apprenticeships are the same, you do need to do your research and check what doors will be open to your daughter at the end of the apprenticeship, and where this particular apprentice ship can take your daughter. If you’re interested in joining Sir Charles Kao UTC in September 2015, visit the open evening on Thursday 25th September 2014. Tel: 01279 444374 . www.sircharleskaoutc.com
eastlife.co.uk | 49
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @eastlifemag LIKE US ON FACEBOOK /eastlifemag FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @eastmagazines
50 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 97
EDUCATION
BACK TO SCHOOL BASICS As a kid it’s an exciting moment when you get to pick your shiny new pencil case and stationary for the start of the school year. Check out our money saving options...
1
2
3 4
5
6
1. Eggnogg’s Colour in Kit Bag £14.99 Bells and Whistles Kids, Thornham, Norfolk 2. Bramblewood Cool Satchel £14.99 WHSmith nationwide 3. Popstar Microphone Wooden Ruler £4.95 Dotcomgiftshop 4. Tumtum Bug Lunchset £10 John Lewis, Grand Arcade, Cambridge 5. Mini Highlighters £1 Claire’s, Freeport Braintree, Essex 6. Tea & Roses Collection £5 Add a stylish touch to the school day with this girly pencil case and notebook. Available from Hallmark
eastlife.co.uk | 51
Hethersett Old Hall School
Independent day school for girls 3 -18 and boys 3 -11 with boarding for girls from 9
Preparatory and Senior School
OPEN MORNING
ST ALBANS SCHOOL HMC Day School 830 pupils Headmaster: Jonathan Gillespie MA
ENTRY FOR BOYS at 11 and 13 ENTRY FOR BOYS and GIRLS at 16+
the first School in Hertfordshire
• 93% A* to B at A level • 80% A* and 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
Open Mornings: 20 September, 11 October, 8 November, 6 December; 16+ evening 16 October
Saturday 4th October, 10 am - 12 noon www.hohs.co.uk | enquiries@hohs.co.uk | 01603 810390 Hethersett Old Hall School | Norwich Road | Hethersett | Norwich | NR9 3DW
52 | eastlife.co.uk
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
LIVE ON STAGE!
Saturday 22 November, 3pm Sunday 23 November, 11am, 2pm The Weston Auditorium, Hatfield
124 | eastlife.co.uk
Box Office: 01707 281127 www.herts.ac.uk/artsandgalleries
Gosfield School Independent co-educational day and boarding school for ages 4-18.
EstablishEd 1929
HIGH QualIty, affordable Independent educatIon
OPEN MORNINGS
Friday 3rd October, 2014, 9am-12noon Saturday 11th October, 2014, 10am-1pm
SIxth FORM INFORMatION EVENING thursday 16th October, 2014, 6pm-8pm
88% 5+ a*-c
IncludInG MatHS and enGlISH
a level
Prep School fees lowest in the area
100% paSS at a2
• new prep and pre-prep building for 2015
• reception class to 6th form • Small class sizes
Admissions available for Autumn 2014
• Superb facilities • family based boarding houses • acre Wood pre-School in the
grounds ofsted “outstanding”
Call: 01787 474040 Visit: www.gosfieldschool.org.uk Gosfield School, cut Hedge park, Halstead road, Gosfield, essex co9 1pf
54 | eastlife.co.uk
EASTON AND OTLEY COLLEGE
The winning team of the 2014 Cereals Challenge Easton & Otley College. From left to right Kyran List, Helen Robinson, Lewis Fyans and Owen Smith
A
t the time when the college officially became one, the college principal, David Lawrence, said, “We are making history and now is the time to look forward. By coming together, we have gone from being two small local colleges to a large regional college – the fifth largest landbased college in the UK.” Four months after making that speech, Mr Lawrence was awarded an OBE from Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace for his services to education and agriculture and the mission to support land-based industries across Norfolk, Suffolk and beyond. As part of the overall mission of merging, Easton and Otley has invested heavily in new facilities at both campuses to ensure that first class facilities are available for all those who study at both campuses. The Easton campus (based near Norwich) has built classroom facilities for predominantly landbased courses including an animal centre, an equine centre and residential accommodation for students. The Otley campus (based near Ipswich) has invested by creating a new animal centre, landbased classroom facilities, new greenhouses and agricultural facilities. The courses on offer at Easton and Otley range from a schools programme all the way up to degrees options, with leisure and commercial courses also available. Student successes include Bailey Fleming who played football for the England under 20 Cerebral Palsy team in a tournament in Brazil and Paralympic gold medal winning swimmer Katie Piper, who won a national BTEC award for her efforts in supporting fellow students as an ambassador. Students also scooped top honours at a national farming competition earlier this year (see above). Visit www.eastonotley.ac.uk for more details or call 08000 224556. eastlife.co.uk | 55
Why choose to study at University Centre Peterborough? The University Centre offers 30 degree courses
covering a range of subject areas from Archaeology to Accounting, Bioscience to Business, Computing to Criminology, English to Journalism and Performing Arts to Public Services. The fees are £7000 per year and there are also various attractive bursaries available. Employability is just one area we have successfully
“Having done a vast amount of work experience in
developed and we have excellent links with local
Journalism alongside my degree, I have managed to build
businesses for placements, paid internships and
up a number of good contacts for the future. When it comes
post-graduation employment (BGL/Compare the
to employability, having tutors and lecturers who have
Market and city schools to name just a few).
worked or continue to work in the field of your choice is
We also have effective engagement with the third
essential. One of my lecturers is a free lance journalist
sector, with five of our Criminology students engaging
alongside teaching and he has been a great help in offering
in initiatives for Crimestoppers, and others working
advice when it comes to job applications and providing
through the Heritage Lottery Fund to promote heritage
contacts in the field.
and its accessibility for young people. One such HLF partnership has resulted in us working closely with Peterborough Cathedral for the next three years. Our progression rates into employment or higher
Making yourself employable is the most important aspect you can focus on. So do everything you can to make yourself stand out!” Rachel Pishhorn, recent graduate, BA (Hons) Journalism
study are high (75% of Computing students found employment within six months of graduating), with many students working in their chosen fields and developing their CV’s alongside their studies. Our National Student Survey (NSS) results are impressive with BA (Hons) Journalism and BSc (Hons) Computing and Information Systems achieving a 92% satisfaction rate in 2014. Overall degree classifications remain high with 82% of the most recent Archaeology graduates achieving a 1st or a 2:1.
At UCP You matter! ucpenquiries@anglia.ac.uk XX | eastlife.co.uk 01223 69 5750
“The teaching was of the highest level with tutors being totally dedicated and supportive in helping their students achieve. The tutors posess a wealth of knowledge in their chosen fields and are passionate about their subjects. Studying Sociology at UCP gave me the confidence and knowledge I needed to move forward in my career path. The diverse range of subjects studied not only broadened my field of knowledge but also presented me with new areas of interest that I was unaware Sociology played a role in.” Jacqui Gooch, recent graduate, BA(Hons) Sociology
www.peterborough.ac.uk/ucp
ucp
?
p
It’s not too late to study with us this September! Part-time and full-time degrees including Archaeology and Landscape History, Bioscience, Criminology, Construction Management, Media Studies, Performing Arts and many more! • Excellent progression into employment • 92% satisfaction rate* • 4/5 students achieve a 1st or 2:1** • Lowest fees in the region at £7,000
At UCP, your future matters to us!
ucpenquiries@anglia.ac.uk
01223 69 5750
www.peterborough.ac.uk/ucp
*According to the National Student Survey (for BSc (Hons) Computing and Information systems and BA(Hons) Journalism) eastlife.co.uk | XX ** Based on BA(Hons) Archaeology and Landscape History Graduates in 2014
FASHION
2.
1.
3.
4.
Back to the Future 5.
This autumn/winter our favourite stores will be a shimmer of metallic and futuristic prints. Not just for the party season, metallics can be worn for the office and day-to-day too! 1.Worn together or separate this Miss Selfridge top and pencil skirt combo is perfect for the office or a night out. Top £35, Skirt £45 Miss Selfridge, Lion Yard, Cambridge 2.Adding a little sparkle to the every day jumper, Biba nails the look in one. £69 House of Fraser, Intu Lakeside, Thurrock 3.Dazzle and delight this autumn in a purple beaded cami. £45 Miss Selfridge, Lion Yard, Cambridge 4.The metallic loafer is a wardrobe must-have for next season. £28 Next, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough
5. Not brave enough to go all out metallic? Start with some simple accessories. £99 STORM Watches www.stormwatches.com 58 | eastlife.co.uk
FASHION
Best Foot Forward
1.
Good news gentlemen, autumn/winter footwear collections have just dropped. Snap us these must-haves immediately to see you through the months ahead! 1. Office, price: £120 Intu Chapelfield, Norwich 2.Office, £84.99 Intu Chapelfield, Norwich
2.
3.J Shoe’s Charlie Brogues £115 CUCKOO, 4 St Marys Passage, Cambridge 4.Hammond & Co. by Patrick Grant £110 Debenhams, Grafton Centre, Cambridge 5.Next, price: £60 www.next.co.uk
3. 5.
4.
eastlife.co.uk | 59
60 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 61
SUNDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER 2014 SUNDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER SUNDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER 20142014 SUNDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER 2014
E RWEDDING NG FAYRE SMUEMRM W W E D D I FAYRE EDDING F AYRE S U MSUMMER SUMMER WEDDING FAYRE Fanhams Hall has got everything covered to alleviate any Fanhams Hall has got everything covered to alleviate any Fanhams Hall has got your everything covered to alleviate any thoughts of stress from wedding day. To assist you in finding thoughts of stress from your wedding day. To assist you Fanhams has got everything covered toselection alleviate any allthoughts the inspiration you need, handpicked of exhibiofHall stress from yourtheir wedding day. To assist you in of finding allfrom the inspiration you need, their handpicked thoughts stress your wedding day. To assist you tors will offer advice helping to create your perfect opportunity in finding all the inspiration you need, their handpicked selection of exhibitors willneed, offer advice helping to create to selection view Fanhams for future wedding or in finding allexhibitors the Hall inspiration you their handpicked of willyour offer advice helping to simply create to show your perfect opportunity to venue. viewhelping Fanhams Hall for your your family and friends around the selection of exhibitors will offer advice to create your perfect opportunity to view Fanhams Hall for your futureopportunity wedding ortosimply to show your family and friends your perfect Hall forfriends your future wedding or simply to view showFanhams your family and Admission is £5 per coupletowhich a glass of fizz and around the venue. future wedding or simply showincludes your family and friends around the venue. canapés on arrival. around the venue. Admission is £5 per couple which includes a glass of fizz Admission is £5 perentertainment couple which includes a glassonofthe fizzday A fashion show with will be hosted and is canapés on arrival. Admission £5 couple which includes a glass of fizz and canapés on per arrival. A fashion show with entertainment will be hosted on the and canapés onwith arrival. A fashion show entertainment will be hosted on the dayshow with entertainment will be hosted on the A fashion day day
P ERSONAL & BESPOKE P E RPERSONAL S O N A L & &BBESPOKE ESPOKE P E R S O NWEDDINGS AL & SG PO E DBDEI N SKE W E DW DINGS WEDDINGS A gorgeous in theromantic most romantic setting. A gorgeous countrycountry house, house, in the most setting. Situated A gorgeous country house, the most romantic setting. Situated in 27 acresin of picturesque gardens, Fanhams in acres ofcountry picturesque gardens, Fanhams Hall is a Grade II A27 gorgeous in the most romantic setting. Situated in 27 acres ofhouse, picturesque gardens, Fanhams Hall is a Grade II listed Jacobean manor house offering a listed house offering ahouse rareFanhams balance of relaxed Situated in 27 acres picturesque gardens, Hall isJacobean a Grade II manor listedofJacobean manor offering a rare balance of relaxed comfort, informal surroundings comfort, informal surroundings and impeccable service. The Hall is a Grade II listed Jacobean manor house offering a rare balance of relaxed comfort, informal surroundings and impeccable service. The house boasts stunning house boasts stunning features, lakeside rareimpeccable balance of relaxed original comfort, informal and service. The house boastssurroundings stunningviews, open original features, lakeside views, open fireplaces and fireplaces and tumbling waterfalls. and impeccable service. The house boasts stunning original features, lakeside views, open fireplaces and waterfalls. originaltumbling features, tumbling waterfalls.lakeside views, open fireplaces and At Fanhams Hall a dedicated team of professionals pull out all tumbling waterfalls. Hall deliver a dedicated teamand of professionals pull the stopsAttoFanhams ensure they theofbest fulfill pull all your wedAt Fanhams Hall a dedicated team professionals out all Hall the stops to ensure they deliver the and fulfillhost At all Fanhams a dedicated team ofthe professionals pull ding day stunning country house in best Ware plays out thedreams. stops to The ensure they deliver best and fulfill all your wedding day dreams. The out all and the stops to ensure they deliver thestunning best andcountry fulfill to civil religious wedding celebrations, offering indoor and all your wedding day dreams. The stunning country house in Ware plays host tostunning civil andcountry religious wedding all your day dreams. The outdoor ceremonies and partnerships. house inwedding Ware plays host to civil andcivil religious wedding celebrations, offering indoor and outdoor wedding house in Ware host toand civil and in religious wedding celebrations, outdoor wedding Fanhams Halloffering isplays trulyindoor a match made heaven. ceremonies and civil partnerships. celebrations, offering indoor and outdoor wedding ceremonies and civil partnerships. Fanhams Hall is truly a match made in heaven. ceremonies civil apartnerships. Fanhams Halland is truly match made in heaven. Fanhams Hall is truly a match made in heaven.
EMAIL CALLCALL NOWNOW EMAIL US US CALL01920 NOW885245 EMAIL US enquiries@fanhamshall.co.uk 01920 885245 enquiries@fanhamshall.co.uk 01920 885245 enquiries@fanhamshall.co.uk XX | eastlife.co.uk
MORE FINDFIND OUT OUT MORE FINDwww.exclusive.co.uk OUT MORE www.exclusive.co.uk www.exclusive.co.uk
WEDDINGS
Wedding Special Planning a wedding needn’t be stressful, read our top tips for organising your big day...
eastlife.co.uk |63
64 | eastlife.co.uk
HIREWEAR COLLECTION
FREE WEDDING SUIT HIRE* Free Groom suit hire when your party hires four or more adult suits from our Hirewear Collection. *Offer excludes fancy waistcoats, shirts, shoes and accessories. Buckingham Collection and Highland Wear are also excluded.
For a brochure and price list please call 01553 772382, or download at www.goddardsonline.co.uk
Wellesley Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1QD T 01553 772382 goddardsonline.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | XX
Making your dream wedding a reality. Welcome to our world. Wedding Fayre Sunday 7th Sept 11am - 4pm
Wedding Open Day Sunday 28th Sept 12pm - 4pm
• All-inclusive or bespoke wedding packages – the choice is yours • Air-conditioned banqueting suites with private terraces • 4-star hotel with 80 bedrooms and luxurious Country Lodges! Lodges Request a Wedding Brochure by calling 0120 6 2658 265818 or emailing debbie.hynard@stokebynayland.com
www.stokebynayland.com XX | eastlife.co.uk
Keepers Lane, Leavenheath, Colchester CO6 4PZ Tel: 01206 262836
WEDDINGS
Save the Date A must visit for any bride getting married locally; wedding fairs are a great opportunity to meet with local suppliers and grab a bargain. NORFOLK 7 Sept: Wedding Fair at St Andrews and Blackfriars Hall With some 50 leading suppliers in the Halls, brides to be have the opportunity to view some of the very best businesses in Norfolk plus the chance to see the fabulous fashion show with outfits for all of the wedding party. The Halls, St Andrews St, Norwich, NR3 1AU 28 Sept: EDP Wedding Show at Dunston Hall The popular show returns with an opportunity to view this stunning venue & meet with suppliers. Dunston Hall, Ipswich Road, Norwich, NR14 8PQ 5 Oct: Wedding Fair at Drayton Old Lodge Back for its fifth year the show looks set to be bigger and better than ever before. 146 Drayton High Road, Norwich, NR8 6AN 5 Oct: The Oxnead Wedding Show The show features over 80 suppliers and a fantastic fashion show. Oxnead Hall, Oxnead, Norwich, NR10 5HP 26 Oct: Wedding Spectacular at the Holiday Inn Norwich With up to 50 leading suppliers in the newly refurbished Lancaster Suite this is a wonderful opportunity to select everything from your wedding dress and formal hire through to your car and flowers. Holiday Inn Norwich, Cromer Road, Norwich, NR6 6JA
SUFFOLK 4 Sept: The Hotel Victoria Wedding View this great venue and a variety of trade stands. The Hotel Victoria,
Kirkley Cliff, Lowestoft, NR33 0BZ 7 Sept: Haverhill Wedding Fayre The grade II listed venue will host a number of exhibitors and demonstrations throughout the day. Haverhill Arts Centre, High St, Haverhill, Suffolk, CB9 8AR 14 Sept: Priory Hall Wedding Show Set in 22 acres of formal and informal grounds including orchards, a knot garden with fountain, Priory Hall is a stunning location to say I do. Priory Hall, Benton St, Hadleigh, Ipswich, IP7 5AZ 14 Sept: THE Wedding Fayre at Trinity Park Now in its 10th year, the fayre is one of the best quality and established in Suffolk. Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 8UH 21 Sept: The Suffolk Wedding Show The biggest and best wedding show in Ipswich, one not to be missed with over 65 exhibitors. Wherstead Park, The St, Wherstead, Ipswich, IP9 2BJ
2 Nov: Lenwade House Hotel Wedding Show A chance to view this stunning venue overlooking the river Wensum and meet local suppliers. Lenwade House Hotel, Fakenham Road, Lenwade, NR9 5QP
21 Sept: The Apex Wedding Fair The fair will feature 50 local exhibitors, two fashion shows and acoustic music. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD
16 Nov: Grand Bridal Fayre at The Boathouse An opportunity to view this stylish new wedding venue. The Boathouse, Eels Foot Roadd, Ormesby St Margaret, Great Yarmouth, NR29 3LP
28 Sept: Bury Free Press Wedding Show A great wedding show located at the beautiful West Wing, Ickworth Park. Ickworth Park, Bury St Edmunds, IP29 5QE
1st Feb: The Norwich Wedding Show Rooms will be dressed ready to view and there will be over 40 exhibitors across 40 categories. Holiday Inn Norwich, Cromer Road, Norwich, NR6 6JA
2 Oct: Waveney House Hotel Grand Bridal Fayre A fabulous opportunity to view this stunning venue. Waveney House Hotel, Puddingmoor, Beccles, NR34 9PL eastlife.co.uk | 67
TIMELESS GLAMOUR, EXCLUSIVE TO YOU TELEPHONE 01245 605500
EMAIL hylands@chelmsford.gov.uk
www.hylandsestateweddings.co.uk
XX | eastlife.co.uk
WEDDINGS CAMBRIDGESHIRE 7 Sept: Truly Scrumptious Wedding Extravaganza The only wedding show where every exhibitor offers discounts! Holiday Inn Peterborough, Thorpe Wood, Peterborough, PE3 6SG 28 Sept: The Vintage & Retro Autumn Wedding Show With 150 years of history The Great Northern Hotel oozes vintage appeal and with up to 30 exhibitors and musicians you’re sure to find everything you need for your vintage or retro style wedding. Great Northern Hotel, Station Approach, Peterborough, PE1 1QL 28 Sept: Quy Mill Hotel & Spa Wedding Fair An open day with displays from exhibitors. Church Road, Stow-Cum-Quy, Cambridge, CB25 9AF 21 Sept: Paddocks House Wedding Fayre Paddocks House invites you to view this stunning property with period features yet a contemporary interior. Paddocks House, London Roadd, Six Mile Bottom, Newmarket, CB8 0UE 19 Oct: Weddings Cambridge Enjoy a range of exhibitors and bridal dress fashion show. The Holiday Inn, Lakeview, Bridge Road, Impington, Cambridge, CB24 9PH ESSEX
BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS 7 Sept: Bushey Arena Wedding Show An opportunity to see the newly refurbished venue and a range of exhibitors. London Road, Bushey, Herts, WD23 3AA 14 Sept: Novotel Wedding Exhibition Fashion show, exhibitors and great offers for brides and grooms. Novotel Stevenage, Knebworth Park, Stevenage, Herts, SG1 2AX 28 Sept: Hertford Castle Wedding Show A chance to view this stunning historic venue. Hertford Castle, Hertford, Herts SG14 1HR 3 – 5 Oct: The Milton Keynes Wedding Show A huge wedding show with over 130 exhibitors and everything you need to plan your day. Middleton Hall, next to John Lewis, Centre:mk, Milton Keynes, MK9 3ES 12 October: Ware Priory Wedding Fayre A great selection of exhibitors plus the team will be available to discuss your big day. Ware Priory, High Street, Ware, Herts, SG12 9AL
7 Sept: Essex Vintage Wedding Fayre Fabulous inspiration for vintage brides and themes. Minories Galleries, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1UE 13 – 14 Sept: The Heart Essex Wedding Show The biggest wedding fair in Essex returns. The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 9NN 14 Sept: Ivy Hill Wedding Fair A great chance to view this beautiful Essex venue. The Ivy Hill Hotel, Writtle Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM4 0EH 14 Sept: The Rivenhall Hotel Wedding Fayre With plenty of local suppliers you will find everything you need for your wedding. The Rivenhall Hotel and Health Spa, Rivenhall End, Witham, CM8 3HB 28 Sept: Stoke By Nayland Wedding Open Day An opportunity to visit this beautiful venue, which will have suites dressed. Stoke By Nayland Hotel, Keepers Lane, Leavenheath, Colchester, Essex, CO6 4PZ 26 Oct: Hylands Estate Wedding Preview Day View the House and the Grand Pavilion dressed ready for a wedding. Hylands House, Hylands Park, London Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8WQ eastlife.co.uk | 69
70 | eastlife.co.uk
Please see us at the ECN Wedding Fair, Charter Hall, Colchester , Essex on Sunday 5th October 2014.
To have a wedding day unlike any other
East Mersea Hall is the place to visit
East Mersea Hall is steeped in Elizabethan elegance and history with stunning mature gardens and woodland offset against the breathtaking lake. It is fully licensed for all types of Civil Ceremonies, alternatively there is the Church of St Edmunds which adjoins the grounds of the Hall and is accessed via private pathways. The picturesque gardens and lake makes East Mersea Hall the perfect wedding reception venue.
East Mersea Hall, Church Lane, East Mersea, Colchester, Essex CO5 8TJ Contact: Sarah Baldwin Phone: (01206) 383499 Mobile: (07842) 195221 Email: eastmerseahall@aol.co.uk www.eastmerseahall.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | XX
A wedding planner; something else you might consider saying “I do” to I
nviting a wedding planner to become involved in one of the most precious and private times of your life can be hard to imagine. But as any husband or wife will tell you, the complexities of organising your big day can and often do overwhelm the most organised of people. From knowing which supplier to choose, to selecting specific blooms of flower, planning an entire wedding is no mean feat and while a planner is there to guide your journey and loan their expertise, they would never expect you to surrender complete control of your wedding. East of England’s finest independent wedding planner, Caroline Gould, discusses the benefits of hiring a professional to manage all, or some of the organisation of your wedding. With practice, comes perfection It might be that you can visualise exactly how your wedding should be, but just need assistance in executing your perfect day. A wedding planner can be as involved as you need them to be, whether it’s advice you’re looking for, or just reassurance to know you are on the right track. Whether you require their involvement from the moment you say ‘yes’, a few months before your wedding to bring all of your planning together, or simply to coordinate on the day. Whatever your purpose, 72 | eastlife.co.uk
wedding planners can tailor a bespoke level of service entirely to your requirements and budget. Protect your sanity The average bride spends the equivalent of six full time working weeks, equating to around 250 hours, planning her wedding. Although many brides (and grooms) enjoy every element of the planning process, some simply do not have the time, patience, experience (or sanity!) to contemplate each and every detail. Hiring a wedding planner not only makes life easier by alleviating this time, but it means you have one dedicated contact and consultant, for every element of your wedding. This will fundamentally save you from hunting through different suppliers, allowing you both to concentrate on making the final decisions. Money saver A wedding planner can help you and your partner set a realistic, affordable budget. In fact a good wedding planner will actually save you money often enough money to cover their fee! Your planner will have spent years crafting relationships and negotiating rates with venues and suppliers so will know how much things should (and shouldn’t!) cost. They will help you to manage your budget and advise what percentage of your
WEDDINGS
budget should be allocated where, to ensure your budget goes as far as possible. Wedding etiquette Wedding etiquette can be extremely important on your wedding day. Your wedding planner is constantly gaining creative inspiration and will know all the latest trends set by the USA and other wedding industry professionals, so can take your ideas to the next level. Your wedding planner will have the experience to advise you and your family on wedding traditions, what to expect on the day, and can discuss the aspects that will be most important to you both on the day. This will help to visualise what will best represent you and your partner’s dreams, refining the style and atmosphere you wish to create on your wedding day. The ‘Big Day’ The last thing you want to hear on your wedding day is a supplier who’s running late, or can’t make it (this actually happened recently!). Leave these crises to your wedding planner who is a professional at calmly solving last minute problems – she’ll most certainly have a back-up plan at-the-ready. Your wedding planner will either be with you on the morning of your wedding, preparing you for the most exciting and important day of your life, or will
already be at the venue making sure all of your plans become a reality. A wedding day timeline will have been created to ensure that your guests are seated on the perfectly positioned chairs, the cake has arrived in one piece, the florist has worked their magic with the table decorations and the caterers and venue are fully prepared, leaving you both to relax and enjoy your wedding day. Established in 2009 and based in the heart of Suffolk, Caroline Gould Weddings has an established reputation as a highly experienced and passionate wedding and party planner. www.carolinegouldweddings.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | 73
74 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | XX
XX | eastlife.co.uk
WEDDINGS
Finding your Dream Dress You’ve found the one, now it’s time to find the
^ Above: Bridal designer Charlotte Balbier. > Right: A dress from ‘The Iscoyd Park’ collection.
I
t’s the most important dress you will ever wear and one that you’ll remember forever but just how will you decide? With so much choice available, shopping for your wedding dress can sometimes be a little trickier than you might think. To help relieve the stress, we caught up with UK bridal designer Charlotte Balbier to find out the dos and don’ts of finding your special dress. A third generation bridal designer, Charlotte has been designing gowns for over 11 years. Available in over 40 stockist in the UK including Jennie Cross in Norwich and Mili Mili in Colchester, Charlotte offers fresh and fashion forward designs, which will make brides-to-be go weak at the knees. What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a wedding gown? Keep an open mind, take guidance from the stylists in the boutiques and try on gowns they suggest.
Remember to have fun too! How much of your budget should you allocate to your wedding dress? I’d set a budget in mind of what you can afford but have a little extra tucked away as your dream dress may come in over budget so always good to have an “emergency” fund. Then research designers within this budget. When should a bride purchase her dress? A year is a good amount of time so there is not a last minute rush to finish off the dress. It means you can fit in two to three fittings before the big day to make sure everything is perfect. Many brides leave finding the perfect shoes and accessories to the last minute but I advise doing this early on. The dress length needs to be cut according to the shoe heel height so no alterations can be done without your shoes.
eastlife.co.uk | 77
78 | eastlife.co.uk
WEDDINGS
What do you predict for next year’s trends? Brides are loving both the fitted gowns and the full ball gowns, both very different but equally as gorgeous. Gold is very popular and is set to be even more popular in 2015. Bringing gold shades into both the brides style and also the wedding day style. Sequin linens for the tables and gold shaded glassware all styled to create a stunning backdrop for any wedding day. What are your tips for accessorizing a wedding dress? I am a big accessories fan so I love everything from jewellery, handbags and shoes! I love shoes and there are so many great choices out there from Aruna Seth, Freya Rose and Jimmy Choo. You can really have fun with adding accessories to your theme of the wedding. You can be daring and go for a bright coloured handbag and shoes, perhaps a blue shade to satisfy the ‘something blue’ part of a wedding. Are there any additional costs you should take into consideration after you’ve purchased your dress? Each of our bridal stockist’s operate differently so you need to check with them what their policy is on various things including alterations. You do need to budget for alterations. There’s such a huge choice available to brides, how do you whittle down the choice? Keep an open mind, it’s good to use magazines and look online for inspiration but when you go for bridal appointments at the boutiques listen to what the sales advisors suggest as they are experts, 9 times out of 10 they will suggest a dress that turns out to be ‘the one’. How many dresses should you try before making a decision? It completely depends on the bride. Figuring out your body shape and the best styles that will suit it is a great way to eliminate dresses to try on. If you try on a dress and absolutely fall in love with it at first sight then it’s the one!
What are your top tips for an Eastlife bride? The vows really should be the most important part of a wedding day but my three golden rules are; a good photographer, amazing dress and fantastic food and drink. What can we expect from your latest collection? ‘The Iscoyd Park’ collection is made up of over twenty new gorgeous gowns in an array of styles to suit the modern day bride, your wedding and style. It’s based on my own wedding. The collection includes two dresses I actually wore on the big day called ‘The Charlotte’ and ‘Iscoyd Park.’ The ‘Iscoyd Park’ collection was designed with love and our wedding in mind. Do you have any plans to expand stockist within the East of England? Yes we hope to take on two more stockists in the area. We are currently looking for two boutiques to become brand partners and stockists of the Charlotte Balbier collection. For more details about Charlottes Balbier and stockists visit www.charlottebalbier.com
eastlife.co.uk | 79
AFTERNOON TEA DELIGHTS
Enjoy an afternoon of pure indulgence. The Felix Tea is served in our light and airy Orangery or al fresco on the Garden Terrace. £17.50 per person.
~ Stylishly Different ~ WHITEHOUSE LANE, HUNTINGDON ROAD, CAMBRIDGE, CB3 0LX
01223 277977 | help@hotelfelix.co.uk | www.hotelfelix.co.uk
80 | eastlife.co.uk
Come to us with your idea and we will create a design Offering stylish designs and a delicious choice of flavours, our cakes will add that extra ‘wow’ factor to your celebrations. Based nr Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire. 01480 435756 | 07861 790915 | heather@keenforcakes.co.uk
www.keenforcakes.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 81
82 | eastlife.co.uk
WEDDINGS
BRIDAL ACCESSORIES Glam up your bridal look with some super-sparkling accessories You have the dream dress now it’s time to add the finishing touches with some drop-dead gorgeous accessories. Take a look at our top picks for looking head to toe glam. 1. Vermeil Chandelier Earrings, £225 For a touch of sophistication and glamour check out JCM London’s new Eternity Collection. JCM London, House of Fraser, Intu Lakeside, Essex 2. Bouquet Crystal & Sterling Silver Necklace £99.00 This art deco inspired necklace from Tresor Paris is the perfect finishing touch for a vintage bride. Winsor Bishop, 41-43 London Road, Norwich
2
1
3
3. Maison Lejaby £70 and £30 Using the finest fabrics native to France, Maison Lejaby offer a range of stunning bridal lingerie. Available at Jarrolds and Pollard & Reed, Norwich www.maisonlejaby.com 4. Dusk Till Dawn Forehead Band £165.00 Whispering Breeze Forehead Band £135.00 Offering a five-star service and a beautiful array of handmade headpieces, accessories and one-off vintage items, Flo and Percy is a must for anyone looking for something extra special. Flo & Percy, Billericay, Essex. Tel: 01277 637143 5. Antique Rose Bridal Garter £42.99 Add a little floral essence to the traditional garter with this antique style from The Great British Wedding. www.thegbwedding.com
4
5 eastlife.co.uk | 83
84 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 85
86 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 87
88 | eastlife.co.uk
CONSUMER
Consumer News CB1 Business Centre expands as demand increases
Cambridge University Botanic Gardens
Eastlife introduces monthly columnist Martin Lewis
E
astlife are excited to announce that Martin Lewis, creator of moneysavingexpert.com and financial journalist will be a monthly consumer contributor at www.eastlife.co.uk.
F
ollowing its success the CB1 Business Centre has opened 30 new office spaces as demand for flexible workspace continues to grow in Cambridge. Brookgate, which created the business centre as part of the CB1 masterplan, is converting 5,800 sq ft into small offices, which will be suitable for between one and four people, with many of the offices already let. The conversion took just one month with the first companies moving in at the beginning of July. The CB1 Business Centre, which is operated by Stansted-based business centre expert Mantle, provides independently-run, fully inclusive serviced offices for companies looking for flexible, professional space. Occupiers can additionally enjoy access to meeting rooms and kitchen facilities, along with a range of secretarial and administrative services. The centre also offers ‘virtual offices’, allowing use of the address and call answering services without having to take on physical office space – which opens up the prestigious Station Road area to smaller companies that previously were unable to be part of the development. For more information visit: www.cb1businesscentre.co.uk
Martin will be offering readers expert advice and tips on savings, mortgages, debt, financial issues and more on a monthly basis. To read Martin’s latest column visit www.eastlife.co.uk
Family mediation by CB4 Law
D
ivorce can be difficult for everyone involved but there are some simple and effective methods of resolving the issues. CB4 Law Solicitors, Cambridge, highly recommend mediation as a way of trying to work things out after separating. Mediation is a process to help couples who have decided to separate or divorce to talk things through – for example the arrangements for the children or issues about the finances. Mediation can ease the pain of a family breakdown by; reducing tension and hostility, helping you make informed decisions that are right for your circumstances, keeping communication channels open and saving the cost of expensive court battles. CB4 Law advise that mediation will help you reach practical solutions which feel fair for both you, and your family. For further information regarding Family Mediation contact Helen Casey at CB4 Law solicitors on 01223 316666. eastlife.co.uk | 89
90 | eastlife.co.uk
138|eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | XX
XX | eastlife.co.uk
HOME & GARDEN
At Home with Sarah Beeny A
ccording to the July RICS Residential Market Survey, demand for new homes in the East of England picked up in July, the first monthly increase since April, while the supply of new properties coming onto the market remains slow. Yet as a result of the rebalancing in demand and supply, house price growth in the East remains strong, with a net balance of 45 per cent more respondents reporting an increase in prices in July (from 38 per cent in June and 45 per cent in May). With a confusing market it’s no wonder that TV channels offer so many programmes dedicated to helping us sell our homes. Gracing our screens since 2007 is property expert Sarah Beeny. She has been helping the nation get to grips with their home with shows such as ‘Property Ladder’ and ‘Double Your House for Half the Money’. Still a regular on our screens Sarah is now shaking up the estate agency market and runs an online estate agent called Tepilo.com, which sells property for its vendors for less than £500 – amazing! In between this and her fun new series called ‘Clicks and Mortar’, the property developer took the time to provide us with some top tips for selling a home. The housing market has been a hot topic for sometime, what are your thoughts on the current state of the market? The housing market is improving - perhaps more in cities such as London but there is a general positive feeling around, borrowing is getting easier and interest rates remain low. For those thinking of selling their home, what would
you suggest are the most important factors? Firstly, be sure you’re ready to move on, selling a house is a large step to make. When you’re ready, make sure you find the right estate agent online or traditional - don’t just go with the estate agents that values your home the highest. It’s also wise to decorate walls in a neutral colour, remove the clutter and emphasise natural light. What advice can you offer for finding an estate agent? You have three options when you want to sell your house: 1) You can do it privately: private house sales, or for sale by owner, 2) you can use an online estate agent, such as Tepilo.com or 3) you can use a traditional estate agent. Your decision depends on how much control you want over the process and how much you really don’t want to pay estate agents fees. The bottom line, however, is that both clicks and mortar and eastlife.co.uk | 93
XX | eastlife.co.uk
HOME & GARDEN
What advice can you offer for homeowners conducting viewings to potential buyers? Cleaning your home from top to bottom would be the best thing you could possibly do! It might sound obvious, but a good dust, hoover and sweep of all surfaces and your home will look instantly better. What are the key points buyers look for when choosing a new home? First impressions are everything, so make sure your home looks inviting: mow the lawn and get the windows cleaned for example. I also think reducing the cost of energy is becoming more and more important and is a great selling point, so make prospective buyers aware of any energy-saving improvements you have made, such as loft insulation.
bricks and mortar estate agents make the house selling process so much easier than if you go it alone. What are the common mistakes that homeowners make when selling? Not seeing their home as a product that needs to look as good as it possibly can. You wouldn’t put a photo of yourself with no make-up on, or unshaven on an online dating site, so smarten your home before taking pictures of it, or inviting prospective buyers round. Cleaning up thoroughly before you let a buyer near your home is a must, yet you’d be amazed how many people forget. What are your top tips for making a home look presentable for photos & viewings? Try looking at your home with a dispassionate eye; making sure it doesn’t look too ‘busy’. Many of us love a homely look with an array of trinkets on view, but to the buyer this can simply look like clutter, make rooms seem smaller and distract them from the main star of the show: your property. What you want to achieve is clean, clear lines and a sense of space - experiment by taking photos in different positions.
In the current market, how long do you think it should take to sell a house? That’s a tough one, as you have to tailor your expectations to where you are, and the strength of the house you’re trying to sell, however, a property priced correctly will always sell. For those that have had their home on the market for over a year, what advice can you offer? Selling your home isn’t simple. It’s important to remember that buyers form their impressions within seconds of seeing the property. Price is another large factor - you need to be realistic. Research properties in your area and get quotes from several estate agents who have previously sold houses similar to your own. What is the best time of year to sell a home? I truly believe that people shouldn’t panic sell or buy. You should move home when the time is right for you, not in reaction to what the market is doing. What are your predictions for the property market in 2015? A lot of it will depend on the results of the 2015 election. For example, Labour seem to have misgivings about the Help to Buy scheme, so we might see that wound down, and a left-leaning government may have more inclination to address the inequalities in the market. But the recovery appears to be going well, so I’d be surprised if we saw a crash any time soon.
eastlife.co.uk | 95
96 | eastlife.co.uk
Beautiful Beautiful
E L A SOW ON
BRAND NEW SUPERSTORE OPEN NOW
CAMBRIDGE FIREPLACE & WOODBURNERS
fireplaces and woodburners
N
16 Sawston Trade Park, London Road, Pampisford, Cambridge, CB22 3EE
50E
p to ucambridge@zigis.co.uk
% OFF
apply *T&C’s
SOAWLON N
fireplaces and woodburners
up to
50
% OFF
apply *T&C’s
Our family business has been established 35 years offering you our vast experience when selecting the correct fire Electric, Gas & Open Fires Our family business has• been established 35 years offering • Woodburers you our vast experience when selecting the correct • Fireplaces
l Fireplaces • Gas & Hetas Registered Electric, Gas & Open Fires Woodburners OurlSafe family business has been • Logs & Kindling ORDER NOW l Gas Safe & Hetas Registered established 35 years offering • Chimney Sweep Service BOOK NOW l Logs & Kindling ORDERyou NOW our vast experience • Gas Fire & Boiler Service when BOOK NOW selecting the correct fire l Chimney Sweep Service BOOK NOW • 6 Months Interest Free Credit l Gas Fire & Boiler Service BOOK NOW • Electric, Gas & Open Fires • Woodburers l 6 Months Interest Free Credit l
• Fireplaces • Gas Safe & Hetas Registered • Logs & Kindling ORDER NOW • Chimney Sweep Service BOOK NOW • Gas Fire & Boiler Service BOOK NOW • 6 Months Interest Free Credit
www.zigis.co.uk
*T&C’s on ex showroom models
COLCHESTER IPSWICH 11 Peartree Business Centre Bypass Nurseries, London Road, Colchester, Capel St Mary, Ipswich, Essex CO3 0JN Suffolk IP9 2JR Call 01206 546111 Call 01473 312008 colchester@zigis.co.uk ipswich@zigis.co.uk
www.zigis.co.uk
HALSTEAD Bentalls Farm, Sudbury Road, Halstead, Essex CO9 2RR Call 01787 479944 halstead@zigis.co.uk
CHELMSFORD Aston Lodge, Chatham Green Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3LE Call 01245 360772 chelmsford@zigis.co.uk
NORWICH 121 Woodside Road, Thorpe, Norwich, Norfolk NR7 9HA Call 01603 436944 norwich@zigis.co.uk
www.zigis.co.uk
*T&C’s on ex showroom models *T&C’s on ex showroom models
COLCHESTER IPSWICH 11 Peartree Business Centre Bypass Nurseries, London Road, Colchester, Capel St Mary, Ipswich, Essex CO3 0JN Suffolk IP9 2JR Call 01206 546111 Call 01473 312008 colchester@zigis.co.uk ipswich@zigis.co.uk
HALSTEAD Bentalls Farm, Sudbury Road, Halstead, Essex CO9 2RR Call 01787 479944 halstead@zigis.co.uk
CHELMSFORD NORWICH Aston Lodge, Chatham Green 121 Woodside Road, Little Waltham, Chelmsford Thorpe, Norwich, CM3 3LE Norfolk NR7 9HA Call 01245 360772 Call 01603 436944 eastlife.co.uk | XX chelmsford@zigis.co.uk norwich@zigis.co.uk
Control Cosy Real Fire
Homely
Warmth Style
Relax
Bring the benefits of a real fire into your home Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary wood burning stoves in East Anglia today. We have created a display of exceptional wood burning stoves and fires in a showroom to match them. A place where you can step back and take in their full visual impact. A place to see cutting edge design from leading manufacturers. A place where you can be inspired by the possibilities of a real fire.
COLNESTOVES LTD | BROOKHILL PARK | 42 HALSTEAD ROAD | EARLS COLNE | COLCHESTER | ESSEX | CO6 2NL
TEL 01787 222608 | INFO@COLNESTOVES.COM | COLNESTOVES.COM XX | eastlife.co.uk WE OFFER A COMPLETE DESIGN, BUILD AND INSTALLATION SERVICE
HOME & GARDEN
Feel the HEAT! Discover why a fireplace is next season’s hottest trend
B
efore we know it the evenings will be drawing in and summer will be a distant memory, which is why there has never been a better time to add a fireplace to your home. Warm and cosy, a fireplace can really bring a home to life during the winter months, not to mention it’s the perfect accessory to any traditional Christmas – just imagine the family together opening presents, the warm glow and the sound of crackling logs in the background. There was a time when fireplaces were only associated with historic or country homes but now this fabulous feature can add thousands to your property value with many buyers adding a fireplace to their checklist and estate agents listing it as an attractive feature. Sleek and chic It’s not all chimney sweeping and logs though, even new build or modern homes are opting for a fireplace to make a style statement. Whether placed on a wall or free standing, modern fireplaces are aesthetically pleasing and can be customized to suit the look of your contemporary home. There is range of electric and gas options, sizes and styles available. Though some may act purely as a stylish feature, many contemporary fireplaces feature mod-cons which emit heat, can be controlled by remote and even produce a smoke like effect. Cutting costs Whether electric, gas, wood or oil, contemporary fires are suited for any room you choose. Keeping your home heated with fireplaces can combat the soaring costs of energy bills in the winter months. When considering installation, make sure to speak
to your contractor about ways to make your fireplace the most efficient. If you’ve recently moved into a house with a working fireplace don’t be scared about the maintenance and potential running costs. A fireplace can be a great decorative piece and talking point without ever being used. Use your fireplace as a focal point of the room. It’s the perfect place to position furniture around and can easily be accessorised with mirrors, flowers, vases and items such as log holders to give an authentic look. The warm glow of a fireplace is a beautiful feature to add to any home. No matter your personal style or design of your home you’ll be able to find a fireplace to suit.
eastlife.co.uk | 99
100 | eastlife.co.uk
TROWMANS TROWMANS RANGE COOKERS - STOVES - FIRES
RANGE COOKERS - STOVES - FIRES
TROWMANS TROWMANS RANGE COOKERS - STOVES - FIRES RANGE COOKERS - STOVES - FIRES RANGE COOKERS - STOVES - FIRES
Free site surveys and quotations
Fully qualified HETAS and OFTEC
Free site surveys and quotations installation engineers Fully qualified HETAS and OFTEC Wood multi fuel stoves • Freeand site surveys installation engineers Oiland gas and solid fuel range cookers quotations Wood and multi fuel stoves • Fully qualified HETAS Oil gas and solid fuel range and cookers
OFTEC installation Engineers
Full central heating installations and servicing Full central heating installations Over 40 stoves on display in and servicing our showroom • Full central heating Over 40 stoves on display in Fireplace and chimney renovations installations and servicing our showroom Fireplace and chimney renovations • Over 40 stoves on display in
our showroom
www.trowmans.co.uk • Wood and multi fuel stoves • Wood and multi fuel stoves
Full central heating installations Free site surveys and quotations Full central heating installations Free site surveys and quotations andLong servicing • Oilsite gas and solid fuelHouse, range Unit 2, Foundry Hall Street, Melford, Free Fully qualified HETAS and OFTEC www.trowmans.co.uk Full central heatingSuffolk installations surveys and quotations and servicing Fully qualified HETAS and OFTEC Over 40 stoves on display in installation engineers cookers Tel: 01787313699 Email: info@trowmans.co.uk and Overservicing 40 stoves on display in installation Fully qualified HETAS and OFTEC engineers Unit 2, fuel Foundry Melford, Suffolk our Long showroom Wood and multi stovesHouse, Hall Street, our Overshowroom 40 stoves on display in installation engineers Wood andTel: multi01787313699 fuel stoves Fireplace and chimney renovations Email: info@trowmans.co.uk showroom gasand and solidfuel fuel range cookers our Fireplace and chimney renovations Oil Wood Oil gas andmulti solid fuelstoves range cookers Fireplace and chimney renovations Oil gas and solid fuel range cookers
www.trowmans.co.uk www.trowmans.co.uk www.trowmans.co.uk Unit 2, Foundry House, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk Unit 2, Foundry House, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk Tel: info@trowmans.co.uk Unit Foundry House,Email: Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk Tel:2,01787313699 01787313699 Email: info@trowmans.co.uk
Tel: 01787313699 Email: info@trowmans.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | XX
Summer is still just with us, but Autumn is round the corner and now is the best time to prepare for the colder weather by servicing your stove. There are a few important things worth checking - take a good look at the door seals and make sure they are not frayed or broken. The glass should be intact and tight in its fixings and any firebricks which are broken or split should be replaced. Finally, check your carbon monoxide meter to make sure it’s working properly. Having your flue swept regularly by a professional sweep is key to keeping your wood or multifuel burner working safely and well. When it comes to performance, it’s worth burning your stove to its capacity and part of this is organising a good supply of fuel. Dry, well-seasoned hardwood is best and if you use it, selecting a good quality smokeless coal is important. You can supplement your fuel by using kiln dried logs or briquettes and a stove thermometer can tell you if the stove is running at the right temperature. Please visit our website www.classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk or call us on 01449 678 659 if you want more advice or like us to carry out a service for you.
SEPTEMBER
SALE NOW ON
and electric fires and much more. There are
PLUS SPECIAL OFFERS ON NEW & EX-DISPLAY STOVES!
ex-display models.
Call us on 01449 678659 or email on sales@classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk www.classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk
So get ready for Winter and visit us this September at Unit 16. Charles Industrial Estate. Stowmarket. Suffolk. IP14 5AH
XX | eastlife.co.uk
HOME & GARDEN
Find your style If you’ve already decided on a theme for your room, look for a fireplace with complimentary accents like stone, brick, tile and woodworking. If you choose a mantle, it’s a great way to match it to your room’s décor. Here’s a few ideas to get you started…
<
The Burlington fireplace is a timeless design carved from limestone. With its simple geometric lines and classical proportions, it will give architectural interest and a sense of scale to both modern and traditional interiors. Price: £1,595 (ex. VAT) www.bentleyfireshop.co.uk
>
Traditional or contemporary, the new 5KW multi-fuel stoves look as harmonious in a farmhouse inglenook as they will in a newly built house. The stove is freestanding with either a curved or square door, and large flame picture. For people living in a smoke controlled area, these fireline stoves are DEFRA exempt for wood burning, which means they meet the latest UK Clean Air Act, giving a greener source of heat. Balmoral Limestone complete fireplace with Chamber and FP5 stove £1518 inc vat Available from Fireline
<
The Thor is a compact wood-burning stove perfect for high-energy efficiency homes. Its stylish stove with sealed structure is ideal for passive houses. Its optional ducting with comfort air system allows it to heat several rooms concurrently up to eight metres away. Price on request. Available at MCZ.
eastlife.co.uk | 103
WHERE QUALITY AND SERVICE IS NOT A MYTH
l F RO N T D O O R S l B AC K D O O R S l FRENCH DOORS l l l l l
DOOR AND SIDE SCEENS I N - L I N E PAT I O D O O R S T I LT / S L I D E PAT I O D O O R S B I - F O L D I N G / M U LT I - F O L D I N G D O O R S C O N S E RVATO R I E S
l R E P L A C E M E N T C O N S E RVATO RY RO O F S
unicorn windows Unit 3, Youngs Industrual Estate, Stanbridge Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4QB Telephone: 01525 854272 www.unicornwindows.co.uk Unicorn Windows Full Page.indd 1
104 | eastlife.co.uk
31/01/2014 11:57
eastlife.co.uk | XX
106 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 107
108 | eastlife.co.uk
Cherry Blossom Care Home Opening Late September 2014 Peterbotough’s new, luxury care home. First-Class residential, nursing and dementia care Cherry Blossom Care Home, Warwick Road, Walton, Peterborough PE46DE
“Alysia Caring prides itself in offering outstanding care in a luxorious setting. With state-of-the-art facilities and caring staff, we provide residents a number of care pathways to meet their individual needs. At Alysia Caring it’s all about our residents.”
Dr Walter Greaves, Board Member Quality Monitoring and Governance
A Level of Comfort and Care That Surpasses Expectations for Care Homes With an expert team covering residential, nursing and specialist dementia care, plus individualised care plans tailored for each resident, Cherry Blossom Care Home in Peterborough will have on-site care that few other care homes can rival. Cherry Blossom Care Home has been designed to create a luxurious, comfortable living environment, including the following exceptional facilities:
• Large, luxorious bedroom suites (en-suite) • Spacious lounges furnished to a high standard • Chauffeur-driven limousine • Cinema room • Barnay’s Bistro & Bar • The Dove Beauty Salon • Concierge Service • Events Manager • Sensory Gardens • Day care centre
Opening Late September 2014 Email: info@alysiacaring.co.uk Website: www.alysiacaring.co.uk eastlife.co.uk | XX Tel: 01733 711234
XX | eastlife.co.uk
HEALTH
Healthy Living BEAT THE BUG DISCOVER HOW TO FIGHT THE WINTER FLU
H
ealth is a year round concern but as the seasons change and the colder months draw in many of us will unfortunately face the task of fighting the flu or some sort of winter bug. Few of us escape the common cold, which is exactly why it is called that. In fact adults suffer two to five colds each year while school children can suffer seven to ten colds.* However there are some simple and effective methods that can prevent us from being struck down and bound to our beds with a hot water bottle and lemsip. To prepare yourself for the germ infested office or school that is likely to happen this winter, it’s useful to give your body a healthy head start through the simple use of vitamins. Dr Carrie Ruxton from the Health Supplements Information Service advised how vitamins can be an asset in fighting the flu: “The immune system and gut are our natural defence systems against winter bugs. Several vitamins and minerals are proven to support normal immune function, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, iron, selenium and zinc. Yet many people have low intakes of some of these, particularly vitamin D, iron and selenium. “The 2014 National Diet and Nutrition Survey reveals that up to 4 in 10 women and girls don’t get enough iron in their diet, while half fail to reach the minimal selenium recommendation. Around 1 in 5 adults and teens are clinically deficient in vitamin D. Taking a daily multivitamin/multimineral is a simple way to make sure you are getting the right amount of immune nutrients. A higher dose vitamin C preparation, 500-1000mg per day, is also useful if you feel a cold coming on”. It’s not just vitamins that are lending a helping hand, herb and roots can also help obtain premium protection from colds and flu. It’s not quite as easy as digging around the garden but an optimum formulation of Enchinacea herb and root this winter can help prevent a cold. Echinaforce was developed by natural health pioneer, Alfred Vogel, who experimented over his lifetime to find the most effective Echinacea formula to make his patients stronger and healthier.
Researchers are now gathering more evidence and getting closer to finding the scientific basis for his tried and tested herb and root formula, with new knowledge about how the plant works. While many Echinacea products on the market are formulated using just the root of the plant, Echinaforce combines the root and herb together: the root for its anti-inflammatory action, which helps to reduce symptoms, and the herb for its anti-viral properties. The aerial part of the Echinacea plant is now known to have a direct anti-viral action, interfering with the way cold and flu viruses enter human cells to minimise the chance of infection. It also reduces infectiousness and the transmission of viruses to other people, making it less likely that you will spread the misery to those around you. Meanwhile the antiinflammatory mode of action reduces cold and flu symptoms in those infected and limits the amount of mucus produced by respiratory cells. Who knew it could be that easy? We’ll definitely be reaching for the vitamins this autumn. *www.cardiff.ac.uk/biosi/subsites/cold/commoncold.html
eastlife.co.uk | 111
Are you in interested in working as part of a team?
Registered Nurses full-time
and part-time
We have for Registered Nurses our Surgical on Ward, vacancies Short Stay Suite/Endoscopy Unit and Outpatient Department. The successful will form an already established part of candidates small friendly team, and will be expected to provide and maintain a high quality service. We can offer a strong management team, the opportunity to work alongside expert clinicians, access to professional and personal development and experience within a dynamic working environment.
Administration Positions
We also have administration vacancies available in our Bookings
Department, Reception and Health & Wellbeing Centre, where you will be responsible providing an efficient administrative service, for
while liaising withtheclinical, secretarial administrative and teams and both consultants and patients to ensure the smooth running of the clinics at all times.
we Bonus In offer Insurance, Pension, return Private Medical scheme, Life Assurance and 25 days paid holiday.
To find out more and apply for these positions click on jobs at www.spirehealthcare.com or for more information please contact the HR department on 01223 266960
XX | eastlife.co.uk
Trinity.indd 1
Trinity.indd 1
23/01/2014 14:45
23/01/2014 14:45
HEALTH
MURADSPACE AT JOHN LEWIS, CAMBRIDGE Reviewed by Emma Morgan
J
ohn Lewis in the Grand Arcade, Cambridge has just got a whole lot better. The department store has recently launched its new MuradSpace counter, which offers express facials and full treatments in one of the store’s relaxing treatment rooms. Shopping & facials in one place – I may never actually leave. Ask any girl and there’s definitely nothing better than shopping and pampering all under one roof.
the-art skin analysis system measures five key skin areas; fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, redness, inflammation and pores. The end result then enables product recommendation based on this and the customer’s concerns. Following my YouthCam results, I can safely say I will be reaching for the sunscreen on my next holiday – lesson learned! MuradSpace will also be available at John Lewis, Milton Keynes from 11 September.
MuradSpace offers consumers the opportunity to experience a skin health assessment inspired by the consultations world-renowned dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad gives his patients. Inspired by Dr. Murad’s research confirming that a whole person approach offers the ultimate path to restoring health and beauty from the cellular level up, Murad products are clinically-proven to rapidly resolve common skin concerns. As hard as that may be to believe I did in fact actually feel and see a real difference to my skin after my facial – my skin looked alive for days. As a self-confessed sun worshipper I opted for the Murad Vitamin C Infusion Facial, price £55, which helps to reverse the signs of environmental ageing (through sun damage, pollution, stress, smoking or alcohol), which can appear as pigmentation, dehydration and signs of premature ageing. Though I already knew this would be my preferred choice, the Murad expert evaluated my skin and took time to ask questions to ensure I was getting the right treatment before we began. The facial was absolutely wonderful and my skin felt a whole lot better for it. As well as facials the MuradSpace also offers the complimentary use of a YouthCam. The state-ofeastlife.co.uk | 113
Help throw light on Medical problems We need healthy men to take part in research studies. If you are aged between 18-60 please call. You will be paid for your time and commitment if you participate in a study.
Freephone 0800 328 4195
Addenbrookes Centre for Clinical Investigation www.volunteers.gsk.co.uk clinical.trials@gsk.com V01 05JUN2014
XX | eastlife.co.uk
HEALTH
NEW IPSWICH PARKRUN TO KEEP KIDS FIT
A
new initiative to help motivate, get and keep young people fit has been unveiled.
A free Ipswich junior parkrun will take place in Ipswich’s Christchurch Park every Sunday from 14th September. The junior run follows the phenomenal success of the Saturday 5k Ipswich parkrun. Looking at national trends and a handful of junior parkruns around the country, Ipswich parkrun Event Director Rory Marriott is keen to ensure that younger members of the community could enjoy the benefits of a weekly run with friends and family in an Ipswich park. While there is no cost to attend and it is organised by volunteers, the event’s start-up costs have been met jointly by Ipswich Borough Council and Suffolk County Council.
A DEDICATED TEAM MATTERS
A
t the beginning of last month Sir Alan Haselhurst, Member of Parliament for Saffron Walden, visited Highfield Private Care Home to present seven members of staff with awards for dedicated service. Some of those awarded have worked at Highfield for over 20 years in total and the group have over 140 years combined experience in caring for the elderly.
Rory Marriott said: “The junior parkrun events are set to become the largest running series for 4 – 14 year olds anywhere in the world and I am absolutely delighted that Ipswich will be among the first to benefit from this initiative.”
Manager, Angie Silva said: “We were delighted that Sir Alan presented the awards. His service to Saffron Walden since 1977 indicates his commitment to our community. Our staff have shown the same commitment to those who trust us to take care of their loved ones.” Highfield Private Care Home, Mandeville Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4AQ Tel. 01799 524 936
eastlife.co.uk | 115
116 | eastlife.co.uk
STEP FORWARD with confidence...
Do your legs let you down because of varicose veins or thread veins? Now is the perfect time to do something about them so that you can look forward to 2015 with confidence.
Book a mini-consultation today If you would like to find out more about your treatment options for varicose veins or thread veins please call 01223 305858 or visit www.michaelgaunt.com for more information
Mr Michael Gaunt Consultant Vascular Surgeon Varicose and Thread Veins
Consultant vascular surgeon Michael Gaunt specialises in varicose veins and thread veins in Harley Street. He is a leading venous expert, experienced in treating varicose veins with both the Endovenous Laser and ClariVein techniques. Varicose veins are often considered a cosmetic condition but if neglected can result in complications. Minimally invasive local anesthetic procedures can be used to treat varicose veins on a walk in, walk out basis.
half.indd 1
15/08/2014 13:40
eastlife.co.uk | 117
118 | eastlife.co.uk
ARTS
The Arts Scene
“Hellebore” by Jill Winch SBA in Shillington
Written by Collette Hoefkens 51 Norton Way, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 1BH. Tel: 01462 685139
I
think that autumn has to be the most magical season. With its rich bounty of transient colour and texture, nature begins her bejewelled finale of the year. The hedgerows are studded with blackberry, sloe and rose hip whilst field and verge lay glittered with diamond drops of dew. As a mystical veil of mist and leaf slowly paints a new landscape, so too, the artist is newly inspired. September celebrates this changing canvas with a wealth of new and wonderful art to discover. All across Hertfordshire artists will be opening their doors to invite you to come and see their work on their home ground. It is time for Hertfordshire’s Open Studios event. With a wide diversity of venues to choose from, you can visit galleries, public halls, colleges and workshops. Homes too will be open to you where you can browse, buy or simply discuss the work with the artists themselves. Both professional and amateur artists will be displaying and demonstrating their skills. In the beautiful town of Hertford, Paul Fennell, Gillian Mackenna and Ruta Bartkeviciute will be displaying a colourful and comprehensive collection of works at Courtyard Arts. Paul’s intricate and superbly detailed botanical paintings and drawings provide a varied and interesting contrast to the rich mixed media and ceramics of Gillian and Ruta.
Over to the west of the county there are many more venues to discover and explore. Nestled amidst the hubble-bubble of the Southdown industrial estate, Artscape Arts will be hosting their offering of a visual feast. Photography, printmaking, glass and jewellery will all combine to create a positive bonanza of imagination and intrigue. Here you’ll find the magical paintings of dreamscape and symbolism by local artist and painter Sue Wookey. Textiles, bronzes, precious metals, oils and watercolours can all be found within the 2014 brochure. Search through the catalogue of names and images to see what captures your eye. Most artists do advise that you make an appointment before visiting them. I personally recommend this as not only does it ensure that you get the correct dates and times but it also gives you the opportunity to ask specific questions. For more details pick up a catalogue in art and tourist outlets throughout the county or visit the Herts Visual Art Forum website. Hertfordshire Open Studios 2014, 6th September till 28th September Herts Visual Art Forum, www.hvaf.org.uk eastlife.co.uk | 119
Arts from Around the Region ‘A Brush with the Broads’
Cambridge City Art Fair
A
whole host of wonderful galleries, dealers, agents and arts organisations are exhibiting at the second edition of the Cambridge City Art Fair 2014 in October. This exciting event takes place at The Guildhall, Cambridge, at the very heart of the eastern region. You no longer need to go to London art fairs to see the best galleries - they’re coming to our region. There will be high-quality traditional art from the 18th and 19th centuries alongside modern art from the 20th century and challenging, contemporary work by some of today’s leading international artists, all at a range of prices, starting from just £75 and going all the way up to £10,000+! Many of the exhibitors offer leasing packages for businesses and many more participate in the Arts Council ‘Own Art’ scheme so you can pay for the art you love by installments. This year sees the launch of a programme of free talks and presentations that will take place during the art fair. These talks, delivered by respected members of the art community will offer visitors to the art fair an opportunity to learn about many different aspects of art, including acquisition, conservation and even inspiration. The event launches on 9 October at 6pm with a Private View (tickets available at £20 each) and opens to the public on 10 to 12 October. www.CambridgeArtFair.com
‘A
Brush with the Broads’, the UK’s first four day plein air painting festival, will take place 25 to 29 September at Clippesby Hall, Great Yarmouth. A Brush with the Broads started with one artist, Linda Matthews, looking for a convenient plein air (outdoor) painting festival to take part in, and has finished with her organising her very own. Artist Linda Matthews’ dream in June 2013 was 200 artists painting for four days at their chosen locations around the Broads of Norfolk and Suffolk, and this September her dream will come true as artists from all over the country have registered to take part in the event. With the support of award-winning Clippesby Hall for accommodation, demonstration and social facilities and the fantastic Boathouse on Ormesby Broad for the exhibition and sale of work, the event will show off some of the Broads best facilities. Linda has now managed to involve top artists for demonstrations and prize sponsors who will attract high caliber competing artists. Courses and workshops will also be available at Broad Skies Gallery, Ludham Bridge. www.abrushwiththebroads.co.uk
120 | eastlife.co.uk
ARTS Autumn Season at Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds
S
eptember sees the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds’ Autumn season open with a splash as Jerome K Jerome’s ever-popular tale of freshwater folly and youthful derring-do – Three Men in a Boat hits the stage 4 – 12 September. The Theatre Royal has been working with the Whepstead-based Original Theatre Company (who recently brought Birdsong to the stage) on this hilarious production which is sure to be an oarslapping, blazer-wearing, boater-tipping evening of fun. The theatre will also be host to some exciting onenight shows, with the exquisite Suffolk Stories by Elizabeth Kuti, a duo of plays (The Broken Token, and Fishskin Trousers) about the curious county of Suffolk. Spanning the centuries, these tales capture love, war, betrayal and fishing (17 Sept). Following hard on its heels comes the roller-coaster tale of actor, singer and activist Paul Robeson and his downfall. Featuring such songs as Ol’ Man River, Call Mr Robeson (18 Sept) will be a moving and fascinating evening to remember. Meanwhile Ian Lavender and Ruth Madoc will be returning from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with their bittersweet, heart-warming comedy, You’re Never Too Old, (23 – 27 Sept) about an unlikely duo who discover unexpected similarities when they get to talking on a park bench. For those looking forward to the snowy weather, the hilarious On the Piste (30 Sept – 4 Oct) from John
New exhibition at Bircham Gallery
B
ircham Gallery, Holt, will be showing a fabulous new body of work from established artist Mary Sumner from 13 September to 8 October. Her paintings capture the countryside with fresh fluidity and intensely beautiful contrasting colours. Mary works in acrylics, on canvas and board, and gardens, birds and wildlife are all recurring themes. Complimenting Mary’s paintings will be ceramic animal and bird sculpture by Susan O’Byrne, an Irish born artist who lives and works in Glasgow. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. Tel: 01263 713312
Godber will allow audiences to swoop into Chamonix, and enjoy an avalanche of laughs in this sidesplitting comedy of champagne, skis and saunas! And don’t forget to dig out your favourite P.D. James novel this October in preparation for the woman herself, who will be giving a very special lunchtime talk, complete with some bubbly and canapés (2 Oct). Book early to avoid disappointment – this will undoubtedly be a very popular event! www.theatreroyal.org Box Office: 01284 769505
“A Fistful of Ukuleles”
T
he Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain will be performing at The Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 19 September with more songs, more tunes, and with yet more added bonus ukuleles, including the tiny sopranino, the contrabass, and the fuzzdistorted, portable “non-mainselectricity” Judas Ukulele.
previews of previously unheard new tracks from the forthcoming 2014 album, the Ukes bring portraits and caricatures of well known songs, sketches and impressions of the whole range of sonic arts.
This timeless group brings a lively immediacy to its material in a hilarious, entertaining, witty shopping trolley dash through all genres of music, from pompous classical to trivial pop, and vice versa.
Don’t take their celebrity fans’ word for it, whether Michael Palin, Timothy West, Bette Midler, David Bowie, Brian Eno, Michael Gambon or Jeremy Paxman. See and hear for yourself why superlative word-of-mouth recommendations have led to sold out shows and standing ovations all over the world.
With favourite tunes and songs from their “Live at Sydney Opera House” DVD and bringing
For more information or to book call 01473 433100 or visit www.ipswichregent.com eastlife.co.uk | 121
122 | eastlife.co.uk
ARTS Art on the Prom
REALITY exhibition at Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
T
he ‘REALITY – Modern and Contemporary British Painting’ exhibition is being held at the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts (SCVA), University of East Anglia (UEA), Norwich, Norfolk, from 27 September 2014 to 1 March 2015. REALITY presents a survey of the strength of painting practice in the UK and comprises a selection of mainly large-scale works from the 1950s to the present day, featuring 32 major artists such as David Hockey, Francis Bacon and Lucian Freud, alongside contemporary painters including David Hepher, Chantal Joffe, George Shaw and Caroline Walker.
A
rt on the Prom, one of Suffolk’s annual calendar highlights, is expected to once again attract thousands to Felixstowe’s historic seafront. The contemporary art exhibition is free to the public and this year will be held on Sunday 7 September between 10am and 4pm. Visitors will be able to peruse and purchase some of Felixstowe and Suffolk’s finest artwork at Art on the Prom. The seaside art exhibition, which is in its eleventh year, will have over eighty stalls and is expected to attract in excess of 20,000 people to Felixstowe’s promenade.
The work of each artist represented retains a strong reference to the real world, ‘the stuff of life’. Uncompromising and direct, the works reference the body, relationships, history, politics, war, the urban environment and social issues. Entry fees: £8 standard and £6 concessions (senior citizens and students).
FEMALES (in life & with death) at Hanse House
A broad range of art will be available at the event, including paintings, ceramics, photography, glass, jewellery and textiles. The public will also be able to watch conceptual artist, Margaret Wyllie create an art installation with recycled materials on the beach. Adults and children alike can embrace their artistic side in the free activity workshops planned and led by qualified artists. Activities including willow weaving, painting and clay modelling will be available in the activity workshops located in tents on the greens by the Town Hall and Bent Hill. The event will take place in Felixstowe between the Town Hall, Undercliff Road West and the bottom of Bath Hill (for sat nav use postcode IP11 2DX). www.artontheprom.org.
Artist Phil Barrington, born in King’s Lynn, returns to East Anglia with his latest series of pictures for a month-long public exhibition in a new gallery at King’s Lynn’s Hanse House, 30 August to 26 September. The bold new series of creative life studies on exhibition titled “FEMALES (in life & with death)” explores themes such as grief, mortality, acceptance of loss and loneliness. These primarily photographic images with mixed media elements feature a wide range of female models from the local area against a backdrop of local settings and scenery. www.barringtonarts.com eastlife.co.uk | 123
124 | eastlife.co.uk
NORFOLK
What’s on in
Norfolk?
THEATRE & SHOWS 2-13 Sep West Side Story With ground breaking choreography by the legendary Jerome Robbins, book by Arthur Laurents, an unforgettable score by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stehen Sondheim, Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 2-9 Sep The Cromer Pier Show The Cromer Pier Show presents live variety from the Seaside Special Dancers and an all new cast for 2014. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier, Cromer, NR27 9HE. 01263 512495 2-30 Sep Summer Laughter Show Gypsy Productions are pleased to bring you the ‘Summer Laughter Show’, an all new show for the summer season of 2014. Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 2-6 Sep The Mystery of Irma Vep With menacing mysteries and vampire strikes, this comedy will have you gripped! Sheringham Little Theatre, Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 3-6 Sep Godspell Drawing from various theatrical traditions, such as clowning, pantomime, charades, acrobatics and vaudeville, Godspell is a groundbreaking reflection on the life of Jesus, with a message of kindness, tolerance and love. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 6-Sep Everly Brothers And Friends The only show of its kind dedicated to the music of one of the greatest harmony duos, the Everly Brothers. Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 6-Sep Le Theatre de Decadence This stylish variety show brings you some of the most well-known and talented performers from today’s burlesque and cabaret scene. Maddermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 10-Sep There’ll Always be England A wonderful feel good afternoon filled with patriotic music, nostalgia and fun, celebrating the very best of English entertainment. King’s Lynn Corn Ex-
EDITOR’S CHOICE
A
merican novelist Harper Lee’s classic book To Kill A Mockingbird comes to Norwich Theatre Royal from September 22 to 27 with an experienced cast who will bring its pages to life on stage. Adapted by Christopher Sergel from Harper Lee’s novel, this innovative staging of a story of racial inequality and lost innocence in America’s Deep South during the Great Depression has gathered plaudits from critics and audiences alike. Box office: 01603 630000 Book online at www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. change, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 10-13 Sep Oh What a Lovely War In this World War 1 centenary year we remember and honour all those involved by performing this epic musical; a satirical take on The Great War which will have you laughing, singing and deeply moved. Sheringham Little Theatre, Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 12-Sep An Evening with Val McDermid An evening of deadly discussion and ruthless readings as the bestselling author launches her new novel - ‘The Skeleton Road’. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 612580
13-Sep Sita’s Trial In a story that is filled with epic battles, royal drama and moral dilemmas, the Natyapriya Dance Company tell this wonderful story with their trademark magical mix of beautiful dancing, haunting music, humour, great story-telling and vibrant costumes. Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 612580 13-Sep Big Girls Don’t Cry The internationally acclaimed tribute celebrating the music of Frankie Valli And The Four Seasons. This totally live show is guaranteed to have you dancing in the aisles. Princess Theatre, The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 14-Sep Abba Mania If you’re looking for an excuse to party, reminisce or simply be entertained by the best music ever, then this is for you. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 15-20 Sep Daytona Gripping, funny, poignant and full of mystery, Daytona is a play with not one but two love stories at its heart. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 22-27 Sep To Kill a Mockingbird This utterly enchanting and enthralling award-winning production captures the warmth and poignancy of this best-loved classic with genuine heart and emotional depth. A story as moving and magical as you could ever hope to find. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 25-26 Sep Henning When Expect an evening-long crash course in personal accountability and have a right old laugh at the same time! Norwich Playhouse, St Georges Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598 29 Sep - 4 Oct Puttin’ on the Ritz It’s the all singing, all dancing movie musical Puttin’ on the Ritz – featuring the most famous song and dance moments of the last 50 years of movie history recreated live on stage. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 27-Sep 60s Music and Laughter The New Honeycombs have teamed up with Tank Sherman, a very talented
eastlife.co.uk | 125
126 | eastlife.co.uk
NORFOLK and hilariously funny comedian. Princess Theatre, The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01487 532252
community spirit with this sing-a-long of wartime classics. Sheringham Little Theatre, Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 MUSIC 19-Sep Bootleg Swing Flamboyant 20s dress a must for the 2-Sep Toyah Willcox – Up Close and Cat’s Meow of vintage club nights. Personal Bootleg Swing features hot jazz, This is a chance to experience Toyah electro-swing and the seductive, up close and personal. A lively, brassy sounds of the “Moonshine unplugged/storytellers style gig, it will Swing Seven”. Norwich Arts Centre, include Toyah performing an acoustic St Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG set of her loved hit singles and classic 01603 660352 songs. Maddermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 20-Sep Opera To Broadway 620917 ‘Opera to Broadway’ showcases some of opera’s finest moments and the 3-Sep Raymond Froggatt musical showstoppers that have stood Raymond is a stalwart of the music the test of time. Pavilion Theatre, industry, Froggie has spent 50 years Pier Gardens, Gorleston, NR31 6PP. treading the boards, writing and sing01493 662832 ing songs that have been covered by so many other artists. Maddermarket 20-Sep The Dolly Parton Story Theatre, St John’s Alley, Norwich, This two hour journey through the NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 sensational career of one of country music’s mos Diss Corn Hall, St Nicholas 14-Sep Rat Pack Live Street, Diss, IP22 4LB. 01379 652241 Featuring all the patter and razzamatazz of the Rat Pack’s infamous live 21-Sep The Magic of Motown stage show, join the UK’s number one Motown classics with all the dazzling Dean, Sammy and Frank live concert dance moves, glittering costume extravaganza. Prepare to experience changes and superb musicianship the definition of cool. Pavilion Theatre, synonymous with the label. Pavilion Cromer Pier, Cromer, NR27 9HE. Theatre, Cromer Pier, Cromer, NR27 01263 512495 9HE. 01263 512495 7-Sep Unforgettable 22-Sep The Horrors Enjoy the memories of the greatest hits Incendiary synth-pop and majestic of Nat King Cole, The Drifters, Frankie psych grooves; London trailblazers The Valli, Dionne Warwick, The Beach Boys, Horrors return! The Waterfront, King Frank Sinatra, The Carpenters, Elvis PreStreet, Norwich, NR1 1QH. sley and many more. Pavilion Theatre, 01603 508050 Cromer Pier, Cromer, NR27 9HE. 01263 512495 27-Sep Aladdinsane This spellbinding tribute to David Bowie 10-Sep Spice of Life - Musical Fest recreates the studio and live recorded An evening of fun, laughter and versions from Bowie’s vast musical fantastic music, including stalwarts of repertoire, starting at the height of the the theatre Judi Daykin, John Hare Glam rock period with Ziggy Starand other supporting guests. Maddust. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier, dermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley, Cromer, NR27 9HE. 01266 512495 Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 17-Sep Flopsical The perfect antidote to all those mega-musical hits, all those ‘Best of Broadway’ shows, and bringing a smile to the face of that sourpuss Mr Les Miserables. Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-the-Sea. NR23 1AU. 01328 710193
27-Sep The Day the Music Died The Buddy Holly 50th Anniversary Tour. This show proves that the music did not indeed die but lives on and is as vibrant and relevant as ever. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864
19-Sep Jack Morell Band With a heady infusion of soaring vocals set against a backdrop of expressive, lively music, folk-pop extraordinaire Jack Morrell and his quartet have a sound that brings new meaning to the words singer-songwriter. Granary Theatre, Staithe Street, Wells-next-theSea, NR23 1AU. 01328 710193
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS
19-20 Sep 1940s Wartime Sing-a-long Join in for an evening of great fun and
1 Sep-14 Dec Sense and Sensuality Sense and Sensuality presents some
1 Sep-31 Oct Duty Calls: Holkham 1914 to 1918 The exhibition will tell a small part of the story of the war’s impact on the Coke family and Holkham village. Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AB. 01328 710227
65 works drawn from the Arwas Collection, the Anderson Collection of Art Nouveau and from various other private collections. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 593199 1-10 Sep Summer Exhibition A vibrant annual summer exhibition. Paintings, original prints, ceramics, sculpture, designer jewellery, studio glass and more from a mix of the gallery’s favourite artists.Bircham Gallery, Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 13 Sep - 8 Oct Mary Sumner / Susan O’Byrne Exhibition Mary Sumner’s paintings capture the countryside with fresh fluidity and intensely beautiful contrasting colours. She works in acrylics; gardens, birds and wildlife are all recurring themes. Ceramic animal and bird sculpture by Susan O’Byrne, an Irish born artist who lives and works in Glasgow. Bircham Gallery, Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 6-14 Sep Small Works Exhibition The West Norfolk Artists Association proudly presents their Annual Small Works Exhibition in the Shakespeare Barn. The King’s Lynn Art Centre, 29 King Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1HA. 01553 779095
SPECIAL EVENTS
4-30 Sep Dalegate Market Pop Up Shops Taking place every Thursday to Tuesday throughout the month, Dalegate Market offers pop up shop space for independent retailers, so customers can find something different to the usual High Street offering. Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale, North Norfolk Coast, PE31 8FB. 01485 210256 4-6 Sep Reload Festival East Anglia’s largest retro festival. Enjoy three days of 80s music from the likes of Kool & The Gang, Soul II Soul, Human League and more.Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, NR5 0TT. 6-Sep Fleamarket Offering a wide and varied range of collectables and traditional small antiques. There is always plenty of brica brac to enjoy sifting through. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 13-14 Sep Sandringham Game and Country Fair The Sandringham fair has three entertaining arenas with all day displays, competitons and top country demonstrations to enjoy. A fab family day out. Sandringham, King’s Lynn, E35 6EN.
eastlife.co.uk | 127
128 | eastlife.co.uk
AREA FOCUS
EXPLORE KING’S LYNN
K
ing’s Lynn is at the heart of West Norfolk, an area renowned for its beautiful countryside and stunning coastline. Head to the centre and you will discover a town full of maritime and trading history. King’s Lynn was one of England’s most important ports from as early as the 12th century and this maritime past is still very much in evidence today. Fine old merchants’ houses stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House overlooks the original medieval harbour. Attractions At the heart of the medieval old town, magnificent King’s Lynn Minster dominates the Saturday Market Place around which is some fine architecture including the distinctive Trinity Guildhall and historic Town Hall complex. Take a short walk past the grand buildings and merchants’ houses on King Street and Queen Street, towards the magnificent Tuesday Market Place, home to the Corn Exchange, now a thriving concert hall. A great way to explore the town is to follow the King’s Lynn Maritime Trail. Discover the town’s history as a premier English seaport, the stories of its merchants, ship builders, sailors, fishermen and pubs which have played key roles in this history. Venture further afield and discover more attractions on King’s Lynn’s doorstep such as Sandringham House, Castle Rising Castle, Houghton Hall, Oxburgh Hall and great family attractions such as Snettisham Farm Park, Church Farm – Stow Bardolph and The Welney Wildfowl & Wetlands Centre.
Places to eat Explore South Quay, with its pontoons for visiting boats and its great choice of bars and restaurants. You’ll find riverside dining, kid friendly restaurants and a cuisine to suit all taste buds. Places to stay With so much to see and do you’ll be thankful for a good nights sleep. If you want to keep with the history of the town stay at Stuart House. The original building dates back to Victorian times when it was the private residence of a prominent King’s Lynn Businessman. Numerous additions have been made since this time and the hotel now offers 18 bedrooms across two floors. Congham Hall is a popular choice. The hotel is set within 30 acres of gracious parkland and extensive gardens blends elegance and luxury with modern amenities and a focus on traditional hospitality. The spa and swimming pool offers the perfect antidote to the stress of daily life. What’s on? 7 & 14 Sept Music in the Bandstand at The Walks 6 – 14 Sept Small Works Exhibition at King’s Lynn Arts Centre 13 – 14 Sept Sandringham Game & Country Fair at Sandringham 13 – 15 Sept Shouldham Beer Festival at The King’s Arms, Shouldham 26 – 28 Sept King’s Lynn Poetry Festival at King’s Lynn Town Hall
eastlife.co.uk | 129
caley hall ONLY hotel £199 FOr 2
MURDER MYSTERY EVENING SaTURDaY 18 OcTObER, 7pM Double rooms only £199 including a sumptuous 3 course dinner and an evening of great fun and suspense. To book your place call 01485 533486. Free upgrade when quoting ‘Eastlife magazine’ subject to availability
For further information visit the website:
www.caleyhallhotel.co.uk old hunstanton road, old hunstanton, norfolk pe36 6hh 130 | eastlife.co.uk
Sandringham houSe muSeum & gardenS Sandringham houSe The Country retreat of h.m. The Queen muSeum & gardenS The Country retreat of h.m. The Queen
open daily easter totomid-July october(closed (closedgood goodFriday) Friday) open daily easter mid-Julyand andearly earlyaugust august to to october www.sandringhamestate.co.uk 01485545408 545408 www.sandringhamestate.co.uk or 01485
eastlife.co.uk | 131
ADVERTORIAL
Step Back in Time
with Yesterdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World
At these points actors shall interact with them, divulging in information they may or may not know. The event will crescendo with a final scene acted out and reveal the answer. The event holds up to 90 people per evening. For those who want to make the very most of the experience Victorian fancy dress is welcome. Tickets can be purchased at Yesterday's World on booked in advance (payment on arrival) by calling 01493 331148.
Experience a brand new entertainment offering, right on Great Yarmouth's Golden Mile. Yesterday's World presents 'Two Hearts', where passion leads to murder! Enjoy an immersive theatrical experience set amongst 20,000 square feet, across two floors of historical displays, interact with live actors, discover hidden clues and solve the crime! Taking place every Wednesday and Saturday evening, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, throughout the summer, guests will start in the Victorian Tearoom, mingling with actors whilst enjoying a Victorian buffet and complimentary drink. Teams of 10 shall be given an action plan, map and props suggesting places to visit within the attraction.
132 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 93
AREA FOCUS
GOLDEN GREAT YARMOUTH
S
ummer may becoming to end but Great Yarmouth is still in full bloom. One of the UK’s best-loved seaside towns, Great Yarmouth has been attracting the crowds for decades.
a sea view and an electrically operated retractable roof and side panels for those sunny days and balmy evenings – try its speciality luxury breakfasts and afternoon tea.
Its 15 miles of golden sandy beaches stretch out into the horizon along an ever-changing coastline, from seaside amusements to rugged cliffs, from the serenity of Scroby Sands windfarm and seal colony, to the fast paced action of Marine Parade.
The Courtyard on Howard Street is an intimate place to dine. Tucked away in one of Great Yarmouth’s historic row houses, this delightful Italian restaurant will set your taste buds in motion.
Attractions The Golden Mile - Marine Parade - is the vibrant focal point of Great Yarmouth’s seafront, where hustle and bustle mixes with razzmatazz, where ice-cream cones and candy floss combine with sea and sand for the perfect seaside holiday. A stroll along this beachside promenade passes Hollywood Cinema and Britannia Pier at the top, via crazy golf and the Marina Centre and past Amazonia and the Sea Life Centre to Wellington Pier in the middle, before arriving at the Merrrivale Model Village and The Pleasure Beach at the southern end. The strip buzzes with activity, from crazy golf to bingo, diners, attractions, cafés, shops, amusements, bars, tearooms, restaurants and gardens are all here to entertain you. There’s plenty of attractions to visit for an adrenaline rush! Pleasure Beach is full of thrill seeking rides from the log flume and pirate ship to Evolution, which carries riders 20 metres into the sky on its giant arm – as the cars revolve 90 degrees on their axis. If you don’t fancy being hurled into the air, visit the historic Hippodrome Circus. The venue hosts top entertainment all year, but is best known for its Summer Spectacular Circus & Water Show, which features daredevil stunts and breath taking performances. Places to eat It’s not all just fish and chips, Great Yarmouth has something to suit every taste bud and every pocket. The Terrace at The Imperial Hotel offers dining with
Places to stay Seaside holidays, bed & breakfast, hotels, campsites, holiday parks – Great Yarmouth has accommodation for short breaks and holidays. For a seaside residence try The Southern which has sea facing rooms or The Nelson Hotel which is located adjacent to the Wellington Pier. Alternatively you’ll find further countryside accommodation in the nearby Norfolk Broads. What’s on? Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival 2014, 6-7 Sept The Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival 2014 will take place along the length of South Quay, and will be packed with exhibitions, demonstrations, stalls and ships for visitors to explore for the whole weekend. More than 30,000 visitors are expected to Great Yarmouth’s most prestigious annual event, where the town’s maritime past, present and future is celebrated. Out There Festival Great Yarmouth, 17–21 Sept Great Yarmouth really comes alive for the annual Out There Festival, again becoming the meeting point for the world of circus and street theatre. The Festival hub is St Georges Park in the town centre. Now in its 7th year, organisers Seachange Arts have put together their largest programme to date with around 50 acts and 150 performances. The festival will spill out across town, taking in the seafront, Regent Road, Market Place and heading inside to St. George’s Theatre, Great Yarmouth Library, Stars Showbar and the Hippodrome.
eastlife.co.uk | 133
Explore historic Cambridge by bus Departures throughout the year Why not make the most of your visit to Cambridge by booking a City Sightseeing tour on our open-top buses. Tickets are available online, or buy your ticket on the bus.Tours include a free map, and pre-recorded audio is available in multiple languages.
Stops include: n n n
For more information
Cambridge University Botanic Garden 01223 433250 American Military Cemetery Silver Street - The Backs (inc Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College)
www.citysightseeing-cambridge.com XX | eastlife.co.uk CSS_April 2014 - 168x240.indd 1
23/01/2014 15:16:14
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
What’s on in
Cambridgeshire? THEATRE & SHOWS
EDITOR’S CHOICE
2-Sep Jimmy Carr - Funny Business A brand new stand up show. Come for the witty and incisive musings on the human condition; stay for the knob gags. The Cresset, Brenton centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 2-6 Sep Blood Brothers Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 3 Sep Two Gentlemen of Verona Simon Godwin makes his RSC debut to direct Shakespeare’s exuberant romantic comedy. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 4 Sep Medea Helen McCrory returns to take the title role in Euripides’ powerful tragedy, in a new version by Ben Power, directed by Carrie Cracknell. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 7-Sep Tall Stories: Emily Brown and the Thing Tall Stories are proud to present their brand new show, based on the muchloved book by Cressida Cowell and Neal Layton. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 9-13 Sep Not I/Footfall/Rockaby A trilogy of Samuel Beckett plays, starring Lisa Dwan, comes to Cambridge Arts Theatre on a limited national tour following a sold out run at the Royal Court. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 12-Sep Colin Hoult: Characthorse The master of character comedy returns with a sublimely original hour of comic shape-shifting and supreme silliness. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 13-Sep Danny Bhoy: Please Untick This Box
medium. The Cresset, Brenton centre,Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 19-Sep John Newton - Amazing Grace This is a powerfully moving story of slavery, freedom and the remarkable power of love and grace to transform a life. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320
B
yard Art is delighted to be hosting a solo exhibition of over 30 sculptures by artist Carol Peace. It is a poignant exhibition that sees Carol reignite her connection to Cambridge after 27 years. Open Times: Mon – Sat 9.30am-5.30pm Sun 11.00am-5.00pm T: @byardart Tel: 01223 464646 Email: info@byardart.co.uk Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ www.byardart.co.uk A natural gift for storytelling combined with a razor-sharp wit makes Bhoy one of the most exciting stand ups to emerge in recent years. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 18-21 Sep Lola & Charlie This magical mix of puppets, live action and music is based on the much-loved books by Lauren Child and the ever popular BBC TV Series. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 19-Sep Colin Fry Voices from Heaven Show This year’s tour will once again see Colin Fry bring his own form of comfort and upliftment to ordinary people living ordinary lives, proving once again he is very much the people’s
22-27 Sep Daytona Starring Maureen Lipman and Harry Shearer, Daytona is a hauntingly beautiful story about moral dilemma, personal identity and the relationships that bind us all. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 25-Sep John Bishop Join John up close and personal as he tries out new material in advance of his autumn UK Arena shows. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 26-Sep Comedy Club Razor sharp wit from American headliner Dave Fulton who’s supported both Michael McIntyre and Jack Dee. The Cresset, Brenton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 27-Sep Tim Key: Single White Slut Now charming, Key will recollect simple tales of love, gaze dead-eyed at the ladies, recite verse and do basic talking. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 29 Sep - 4 Oct Hay Fever Felicity Kendal stars in Noël Coward’s hilarious comedy Hay Fever, a play first performed in the West End in 1925. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333
MUSIC 5-Sep Mitch Benn: Mitch Benn is The 37th Beatle Mitch’s new show combines his Scouse upbringing, his love of music and a lifelong obsession with Liverpool’s most famous sons. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511
eastlife.co.uk | 135
136 | eastlife.co.uk
CAMBRIDGESHIRE 5-Sep After Hours Live - Open-Mic Night An open mic night offering 10 minute slots to singers, musicians, comedians, poets, juggler, magicians and more. Octavia View, 10a-14 South Brink Wisbech, PE13 1JQ. 01945 587863
01223 357851
10-Sep Toot: Be Here Now Pumping nineties beats, suspect dance routines and angsty shoegazing combine to celebrate the irresistible power of pop and examine how that song will forever ignite heady feelings of love lost and won. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511
26-Sep The Dead Swingers on Broadway Ivan and Joe lead a quintet of top jazz musicians through a selection of famous Broadway show hits and jazz standards. Angles Theatre, Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 585 587
10-Sep Jasper Carrot’s Stand Up & Rock Jasper is back to his very best. Mic in hand regaling the audience with his “new” stand up routines before introducing his musical compatriots The Cresset, Brenton centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 11-Sep Roy Orbison and Friends with Barry Steele If you love good music, then this is the show for you as Barry Steele presents his all live spectacular multi media tribute to The Big O, featuring classic Orbison hits from the 60s right through to the late 80s. The Cresset, Brenton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 12-Sep The West End Experience This all-singing, all-dancing production features over 140 dazzling costumes, beautiful vocal performances & thrilling choreography as it showcases West End musicals past & present. The Cresset, Brenton centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 15-Sep The Queen Extravagaza A spectacular touring concert show designed to take the glorious music and live experience of legendary rock band Queen and bring it to generations of fans. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 16-Sep Frank Turner After his acclaimed performance on the main stage at Sonisphere festival in Knebworth Park earlier this year, Frank Turner has announced his latest UK tour with The Sleeping Souls. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851 24-Sep Chas & Dave The show celebrates their 50th Anniversary by recording their first original album in 27 years which is a mixture of vintage rock & roll songs and new renditions of their own Rockney classics. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB.
24-Sep Sophie Ellis-Bextor Sophie Ellis-Bextorperforms material from her latest album. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511
27-Sep Steve Hewlett & Friends Steve Hewlett, fresh from his stunning appearance on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, now embarks on a major theatre tour with his hilarious friends. Angles Theatre Alexandra Road, Wisbech, PE13 1HQ. 01945 585 587
6-7 Sept A Space to Connect and Grow A programme of craft and environmental workshops, kitchen garden demonstrations and films and performances by local bands. Chauffeurs Cottage, St Peter’s Road, Peterborough, PE1 1YX. 01733 207239
SPECIAL EVENTS 6-7 Sep Silent Movies and Music Hall Join in sing-a-longs of popular wartime songs, watch silent films from the period or listen to readings of works from the War Poets. Try your hand at wartime craft activities and sample recipes from the period. Peterborough Museum, Priestgate, Peterborough PE1 1LF. 01733 864 663
6-Sep St Neots Short Guided Bike Ride Join the friendly St Neots Sustrans cycling group for an hour long gentle ARTS & EXHIBITIONS ride on cycle tracks and quiet roads. Riders of all ages are welcome, 1-28 Sept Art, Revolution and War: though children must be accompaFrance, 1789-1914 nied by an adult. The pace is easy so Medals, coins and banknotes illustrate no-one is left behind. St Neots Riverside key moments in the political and Park, St Neots, PE19 7BD. 01480 889171 artistic history of France. This display focuses on the 1789 revolution, Na6-Sep Big Autumn Booksale Bag a bargain at Huntingdon Library’s poleon, the 1848 revolution, and the artistic triumphs of Art Nouveau. biggest booksale of the year. Glaisher Gallery, Trumpington Street Huntingdon Library, Archives and Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 Learning Centre, Princes Street, Huntingdon, PE29 3PA. 0345 045 5225 1 Sep-11 Oct Literature of the Liberation: The French Experience in Print 6-7 Sept Behind the Scenes Tour This exhibition celebrates the 70th Explore parts of the property not norAnniversary of the liberation of Paris mally open to visitors. Peckover House and shows some of books published and Garden, N Brink, Wisbech, PE13 after August 1944 and before the end 1JR. 01945 583463 of 1946. Cambridge University Library, West Road, Cambridge, 20-24 Sep Flower Festival CB3 9DR. 01223 333000 The return of our ever popular flower festival. ‘Peckovers - Reflections of the 4-Sep Art Demonstration Family’ is the theme. Peckover House and Garden, N Brink, Wisbech. Hunts Art Group demonstration by David James, line and wash. Queen PE13 1JR. 01945 583463 Elizabeth School, 1 Poet Street, Godmanchester, PE29 2NB. 12-13 Sep Cambridge University – Open Cambridge 5-28 Sep Exhibition from Nicola Hart & Take a tour of the historical buildings of the University of Cambridge, including Nicola Cooke Texture plays an important part in College buildings, libraries and garCooke’s paintings, giving them an dens, as part of the Cambridge Univeradded dimension with an organic and sity National Heritage Open Days. St John Church Hall, Cambridge earthy feel, while Hart works primarHills Road, Cambridge, CB2 8RN. ily in acrylics with layers of collage. 01223 244901 Cambridge Contemporary Art, 6 Trinity Street, Cambridge, CB2 1SU. 28-Sep Plough and Country Fayre Day 01223 324 222 There will be; tractor ploughing competitions, heavy horse ploughing 6-Sep Beginner crochet class competitions, vintage vehicles, staLearn the basic crochet stitches: chain, doubles, half trebles and tionery engines, craft and trade stalls, food stalls, miniature steam traction trebles. Materials to bring: One ball of DK weight yarn with a 4-5mm hook. engine and much more. Ramsey Rural Yarn and hook can be provided for Museum, Wood Lane , Huntingdon, PE26 2XD. 01487 815715. £4.00 supplement. The Sheep Shop 72 Beche Road, Cambridge, CB5 8HU. With thanks to Cambridgeshire.net for contributing to 01223 311268 our September listings.
eastlife.co.uk | 137
138 | eastlife.co.uk
enjoy a day out
Information correct at time of print.
Mondays to Saturdays, visit Peterborough by bus for route, times and fares, please visit the busway website, or call us on 01480 453159.
www.thebusway.info eastlife.co.uk | XX East168x240_TBW_Feb 2014.indd 1
10/02/2014 13:28:07
140 | eastlife.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk | 141
GALLOP AROUND NEWMARKET
R
egarded as one of the flattest areas in the UK, Newmarket sits in all its green glory on the border of Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. Suffolk it may technically be but speak to many a resident, business owner or visitor and you’ll soon find it is often regarded as a town within the county of Cambridgeshire. With its location established, what is it that makes Newmarket a popular place to live and visit? Considered the birthplace of British horseracing, home to the largest racehorse training centre and racehorse breeding centre in the country, and major British horseracing institutions, it’s clear to see why the town attracts tourists far and wide. However, look further than horse racing and you’ll find a town that is booming. Attractions Along the High Street clusters of businesses range from big brand names and chain restaurants to boutiques and independent cafes and eateries. A market is held year-round on Tuesdays and Saturdays, joined by a Farmers’ Market every Saturday from May to October, while the The Guineas Shopping Centre houses a selection of well-known and independent stores. A trip to Newmarket wouldn’t be complete without a day at the races. Two classic races, and an additional three British Champions Series races are held at Newmarket every year. The town has over fifty horse-training stables, two
142| eastlife.co.uk
large racetracks, The Rowley Mile and The July Course which host a number of day and night events throughout the year, and one of the most extensive and prestigious horse training grounds in the world. You’ll also find the National Horseracing Museum, the Home of Horseracing project, Tattersalls, the racehorse auctioneers and two of the world’s foremost equine hospitals. The National Stud is the showcase for British Thoroughbred breeding. Set in 500-acres close to Newmarket, it opened its gates to the public for the first time in the mid-1970s. It remains the only working stud farm in the UK welcoming individuals and parties who want to go behind the scenes of the industry. A tour will take you to the Foaling Unit and nursery paddocks where in the early spring you may see a newborn. Tour content varies throughout the year and is dictated by seasonal activities on the stud when you visit. Places to eat Tuck into the celebrated Newmarket sausages at The Pantry, or opt for other traditionally British dishes at highly rated local pubs such as The Wagon and Horses and The Three Tuns. Don’t miss the range of delicious, authentic international cuisine on offer in Newmarket either, from Thai food to Indian fare and Turkish delights.
AREA FOCUS
Places to stay Overnight stays are popular with those visiting the races so it’s no surprise that you’ll find a number of chain hotels in the town, however if you’re looking for something a little different try Bedford Lodge Hotel. The hotel retains the charm and character of a country house yet offers the very best in modern comfort and luxury, providing a perfect blend of old and new. The hotel offers fabulous spa facilities and has a number of packages available. Just a few miles from the racecourse is Paddocks House, a beautiful recently refurbished 15 bedroom boutique hotel. Spend the night in pure luxury at one of its spacious suites, in which restful views of the surrounding grounds blend seamlessly with the latest technology such as an elegant free-standing copper bath. The hotel also has a superb restaurant. What’s on? Students go free on £1m day, 17 October Students are to get free admission on Dubai Future Champions Day when Newmarket Racecourses launch the first ‘Weekend of Champions’ in British racing.
Now in its fourth year, the £1 million+ fixture on Friday October 17 is the best day’s racing in the world for two-year-old colts and fillies, with three Group 1s and three other Group races. Students can access the offer at www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk, using the promotional code STUDENT14. They can register for four tickets, but visitors will only be granted admission with valid student photo identification. Autumn at The Rowley Mile Cesarewitch Trial day - Saturday September 20 – two Tattersalls Millions races Tattersalls Millions day - Saturday October 4 – Kingdom Of Bahrain Sun Chariot Stakes, plus two Tattersalls Millions races Cesarewitch Saturday - October 11 – Autumn Stakes, Betfred Cesarewitch Dubai Future Champions Day - Friday October 17 – Dubai Fillies’ Mile, Dubai Dewhurst Stakes, Vision.ae Middle Park Stakes, Dubai Challenge Stakes, Darley Stakes, Dubai Cornwallis Stakes Two-Year-Old day - Wednesday October 22
eastlife.co.uk | 143
CITY
diversions F E S T I VA L
City Events
XX | eastlife.co.uk
ESSEX
What’s on in
Essex?
THEATRE & SHOWS
EDITOR’S CHOICE
1-13 Sep Friend or Foe A thrilling tale of extraordinary friendship from master storyteller Michael Morpurgo. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948
2-7 Sep Riverdance This 20th Anniversary UK Tour, gives Riverdance fans old and new, the opportunity to celebrate an incredible milestone for an incredible show. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southendon-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 3-6 Sep The Secret Garden Newly-orphaned Mary Lennox arrives from India to live in gloomy Yorkshire and finds a house full of memories, sadness and spirits. Can the finding of the secret garden and the power of nature provide the healing required by all the family, both living and ghostly? Brentwood Theatre, Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305 5-6 Sep The Wedding Singer Based on the 1998 hit movie starring Adam Sandler, this vibrant, moving and energetic musical returns after playing to rave reviews and standing ovations in 2010, this time for charity! Palace Theatre, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 7-Sep I Believe In Unicorns This intimate show is set in Parndon Wood Nature Reserve. It is a tale of the power of books, and the bravery of a young boy called Tomas. An enchanting and interactive production. Parndon Wood Nature Reserve, Harlow, CM19 4SF. 01279 430005 8-13 Sep The Perfect Murder The new stage hit from the No.1 best selling author Peter James. This highly entertaining dark comedy thriller has been acclaimed by audiences and critics around the country. Palace Theatre, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 8-9 Sep Stones In His Pockets Don’t miss this hilarious and moving tale of a quiet Irish community turned upside down by the arrival of a Hollywood movie shoot. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505
T
he incredible Essex Heats of the British Lawnmower Racing Association Championships, are to be held at Blake House Craft Centre, 20th-21st September, 10am - 5pm, with proceeds going to the Essex Air Ambulance. While most people use their lawnmowers to cut grass, a small band of adrenalin junkies are preparing their machines for something far more exciting – lawnmower racing! How fast can a lawnmower go? Come and find out more about this fantastic sport, as the drivers race around the track at top speed. There’s plenty for the kids, plus side stalls and a barbecue, and peacock maize maze challenge! Adult £2, Child £1.Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Nr Braintree, Essex CM77 6RA. Tel: 01376 344123.
11-12 Sep Merry It Was To Laugh There There is a newly devised, poignant evocation of World War 1 through poetry, music and imagery. Merry It Was… follows the course of the war and the changing nature of the words from the Front and the impact of the war at home. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 12-Sep One Week Stand A brand new saucy comedy from Purple Dreams Productions. Brentwood Theatre, Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305 13-Sep Live at The Playhouse Live At The Playhouse returns with another line-up of top TV comedi-
ans including: Andrew Lawrence, Star of ‘Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow’ and ‘Live At The Apollo’. Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 14-Sep The Ken Dodd Diamond Anniversary Show Experience the genius of a true comedy legend, icon and national treasure as he celebrates 60 years of entertaining audiences during a lifetime of happiness and laughter. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633 16-19 Sep Plain English A hilarious and moving one-man show about a newly qualified teacher‘s first year in an inner-city school. Brentwood Theatre, Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305 16-20 Sep The Ladykillers Based on the classic 1955 film and adapted to stage by Graham Linehan (IT Crowd, Father Ted) this is one hilarious crime caper you’d be mad to miss. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 17-Sep That’ll Be the Day This year’s hugely entertaining new production features a fresh line up of classic gold hits from the 1950s, 60s and 70s, plus more hilarious comedy. Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 18-Sep The Comedy Club The show comes with three great comedians from the very circuit that launched today’s stars such as Michael McIntyre & Jimmy Carr. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556354 21-Sep Private Peaceful Commemorating the 100th year anniversary of World War One, the show relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01710 443333 23-27 Sep Jesus Christ Superstar A rock opera that tells the story of the final seven days of the life of Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus Christ Superstar is guaranteed to captivate every audience. Civic Theatre, Duke Street,
eastlife.co.uk | 145
HylandsAd220x71:Test
21/8/14
17:28
Page 1
UK Events Proudly presents in association with The Agency Group
The
Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra Conducted by Timothy Redmond Presented by
Aled Jones with Special Guests
Laura Wright and
Only Men Aloud
Firework Finale
Sunday 7th September 2014
The Line-Up Summer 2014
BILLY OCEAN HEATHER SMALL MARC ALMOND
ORD ELMSF USE, CH ber 2014 em DS HO HYLAN ay 13th Sept Saturd
ABC HUE AND CRY GO WEST FROM THE JAM Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;PAU
DOCTOR & THE MEDICS Saturday 13th September 2014
UK EVENTS by arrangement with SOLO and No Half Measures
IN
LIVE CONCERT
www.wetwetwet.co.uk Sunday 14th September 2014
146 | eastlife.co.uk
ESSEX 18-Sep Think Floyd This extraordinary show is renowned MUSIC for its stunning celebration of one of the world’s greatest musical phe nomena. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, 3-24 Sep Lunchtime Concert Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 Tantalise your musical tastebuds with a Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505
varied programme brought to you by talented local artists and professional musicians. Every Wednesday throughout September. Cramphorn Theatre, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 5-Sep Q the Music A totally live performance of the very best Bond themes with amazing vocals accompanied by an outstanding band of musicians plucked from leading orchestras. West Cliff Theatre, Town Road, Clacton-on Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 7-Sep The Dolly Parton Story Dolly Parton stampedes into the Queen’s Theatre featuring the stunning vocals of Andrea Pattison, backed by the 4-piece Partoners band. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 8-Sep Ray Davies: You Really Got Me Tour Expect to hear a number of Kinks classics as well as some of Ray’s more recent hits on what is sure to be a great night of music. Palace Theatre, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 9-Sep Martha Reeves and the Vandellas Motown legends Martha Reeves and the Vandellas perform their soul and Motown classics. A must see show for any vintage soul and Motown fan. West Cliff Theatre, Town Road, Clacton-on Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 10-Sep One Night of Queen One Night of Queen is a spectacular live concert, recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of arguably the greatest rock band of all time. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 13-Sep Nathan Carter in Concert A superb show of Country, Irish and Popular music that is suitable for all ages. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 15-Sep The Simon and Garfunkel Story Direct from London’s West End, awardwinning actor Dean Elliott and a full cast of performers tell The Simon and Garfunkel Story using huge projection photos, original film footage and a live band performing hits. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333
19-Sep Licence to Thrill The music of James Bond. With a cast of top London singers and a star studded Orchestra, this dynamite show will conjure up dreamy visions of a suave charismatic Bond and dangerously thrilling baddies. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 19-Sep Totally Tina The show goes all out to recreate the spectacle and energy of Ms Turner’s live shows with her live band and stunning dancers, combined with hand-made replica costumes and authentic dance routines. West Cliff Theatre, Town Road, Clacton-on Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 20-Sep Nights On Broadway- The Bee Gees Story The show gives the audience the experience of being at a Bee Gees concert, with a blend of classic hits, acoustic medleys and dance floor favourites. Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 25-Sep The Magic Of The Beatles Join the authoritative Beatles live concert show, celebrating the Golden Anniversary of ‘A Hard Day’s Night’. Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 30-Sep Brentwood Country Music An evening of entertainment from top acts on the Country Music scene. Brentwood Theatre, Shenfield Road, Brentwood, CM15 8AG. 01277 200305
1 Sep-19 Dec Georgian Style Exhibition A temporary display of Georgian costumes. Holytrees Museum, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1UG. 01206 282940 6-Sep Fashion Illustration Workshop From 2pm - 4pm learn the techniques of creative figure drawing for fashion design to form the basis of your own fashion illustration style. Beecroft Art Gallery, Station Road, Westcliff, SS0 7RA. 01702 347418 12 Sep-25 Oct Simon Carter: in Wivenhoe Park A new commission of Simon Carter’s artworks inspired by Constable’s painting ‘Wivenhoe Park’ 1816, will be on display. Art Exchange, Wivenhoe Park Colchester, CO4 3SQ. 01206 873184 21 Sep-26 Oct Ecclesiastical Delights A selection from our reserve collection on ecclesiastical themes. Fry Art Gallery, Castle Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1BD 01799 513779
SPECIAL EVENTS
4-Sep Barnards Farm - Open Garden for NGS A garden for all seasons, tastes and ages: 60 sculptures from the grand to the quirky carefully placed in the 17 hectares of garden and woodland bring surprise and delight. Barnards Farm, West Horndon, Brentwood, CM13 3LX. 01277 811262 7-Sep Dolls Houses & Miniatures Fair Now in its 5th year, this event features all items in 1/12th & 1/24th scale and features exhibitors from all over the UK. The Rivenhall Hotel, Rivenhall End Witham, CM8 3HB. 01945 870160
13-14 Sep Essex Country Show The large scale entertainment show ARTS & EXHIBITIONS returns with a mix of crafts, vintage vehicles, demonstratons and more. 1-14 Sep Exhibition: Textiles in the Barleylands, Billericay , CM11 2UD Garden 01268 290228 An exciting and colourful exhibition of textile art by ‘Chelmsford ’93’, using a 14-Sep Brentwood Autumn Art & Craft wide range of traditional and contemFayre porary textile techniques. There will be Are you looking ahead to Christmas a range of items for sale. RHS Garden or just searching for that something Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Chelmspersonal and a bit special for the dinford, CM3 8ET. 0845 2658071 ing room wall? Then take a visit to this great fayre. Brentwood Theatre, 1-21 Sep Bruce McLean Shenfield Road, Brentwood, Exhibition CM15 8AG. 01277 200305 The exhibition will feature work from 1965 to the present including 27-28 Sep Chilli Pepper Weekend sculpture, painting, photography, This event will be a true feast for your drawings, ceramics and film, and will senses with cooking demos and talks be presented across seven galleries by Saira Hamilton, who will be serving occupying 855 square metres. Firstsite, up fine Bengali food. There will also Lewis Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1JH. be plant displays, food stalls, growing 01206 577067 advice and a tasting table. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Chelmsford, CM3 8ET. 0845 2658071
eastlife.co.uk | 147
BEAUTIFUL BISHOP’S STORTFORD
S
ome say it’s in Hertfordshire, while others claim Bishop’s Stortford belongs in Essex, truth is depending on where you live or visit, the town falls into both counties. With a direct rail link to London and easy access to Stansted Airport the town is popular with commuters and families alike. A great place to work, live or visit Bishop’s Stortford continues to grow in popularity with many new businesses and housing developments appearing in the area. The nearby smaller towns and villages of Stansted, Sawbridgeworth, Great Hallingbury and Hatfield Heath are also well worth a trip for anyone visiting the town. Attractions Bishop’s Stortford is a great place for a spot of shopping and has a market every Thursday and Saturday. Jackson Square shopping centre has a wide range of brands all under one roof with something to inspire everyone while the busy High Street offers a mix of well known retailers, boutiques, restaurants and salons. For a premier men’s haircut head to The Kemsley Barber Co on Church Street, which offers a qual-
148 | eastlife.co.uk
ity service, great price and boasts its own range of products. The Rhodes Arts Complex is at the heart of the town’s entertainment scene. Popular with residents and visitors the venue includes a 300-seat theatre, studio and the town museum. Rhodes has a full programme of theatre, film and the arts. For details of forthcoming events visit www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk For those who love to be outdoors, take a stroll along the River Stort or visit Pishiobury Park at Sawbridgeworth which features ancient parkland and includes a Neolithic enclosure with a causeway, contrasting with a new ceramic sculpture. As many as nineteen species of butterflies have been recorded at the park. Places to eat Bishop’s Stortford has a great range of cuisine. Choose from a host of chain eateries or independent bars and restaurants such as The Lemon Tree and The Terrace Café, which has a courtyard garden ideal for a drink on a sunny day.
AREA FOCUS
The Ark in the town centre is a great place for a bite to eat or drink with friends. Recently under new management the bar serves classic aperitifs, craft beers, cocktails and mouth-watering homemade hot and cold food. Places to stay With so much glorious countryside in the surrounding areas, staying a little further out of town is most certainly worth it. Just 10 minutes from the town you’ll find Great Hallingbury Manor; a Tudor style country manor hotel. Surrounded by lush gardens and a beautiful lake, it offers the perfect setting for accommodation, celebrations and stylish dining. All 31 bedrooms are exceptionally spacious with a contemporary decor, walk-in wet rooms and flat screen TVs. The Lakeside Restaurant and Garden Lounge Bar offer delicious menus made with seasonal and local produce where possible. A little further afield in Hatfield Heath is the grand Down Hall Country House Hotel. Dating back to 1322, this impressive Italianate mansion in a historic setting offers 99 luxurious bedrooms. You’ll find an ar-
ray of delicious dishes available at the hotel restaurants; The Terrace is great for al fresco dining while a leisurely dinner can be enjoyed at The Grill Room. What’s on? Small Aubergine - Pop-up restaurant & live music night, 11th September 2014 One of the many events taking place at the Rhodes Centre this month, 2013 MasterChef semi-finalist, Saira Hamilton will host a pop-up dining experience. For £33 per head you can enjoy a set 3-course menu of delicious, freshly prepared dishes in a friendly atmosphere. Later, as desserts are served you can kick back and relax whilst being entertained by live music. A History of Pubs and Beer in Bishop’s Stortford, 18 September Taking place at the Rhodes Centre, museum curator Sarah Turner will provide you with an amazing insight into the history of some of the pubs and beer houses and the brewing and malting industry of the town. She will also regale you with some salacious stories about the landlords and their clientele.
eastlife.co.uk | 149
Kelvedon Hatch
Secret Nuclear Bunker Come and witness the three lives of the bunker starting with its role as an RAF ROTOR Station, then a brief period as a civil defence centre through to its most recent life as a Regional Government HQ. Designed for up to 600 military and civilian personnel, possibly even the Prime Minister, their collective task being to organise the survival of the population in the awful aftermath of a nuclear war.
events filler_Layout 1 21/02/2012 15:05 Page 1 Tel: 01277 364883 Email: mike@japarrish.com www.secretnuclearbunker.com
Not only will you find over 3000 events on our website - you can add your own, too!
www.eastlife.co.uk
150 | eastlife.co.uk
BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS
What’s on in
Beds, Bucks & Herts? THEATRE & SHOWS 3-Sep Dominic Kirwan Celebrating 25 Years 2014 sees one of the most dynamic and best loved entertainers that Ireland has ever produced take to the road for his much anticipated 25th Anniversary Tour. Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 4-Sep An Evening with Richard Digance Many people sing, play guitar and tell stories, but not many have supported Steve Martin, Robin Williams or played a guitar duet with Brian May of Queen. Richard Digance has. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 4-Sep Beyond the Barricade Hit songs with amazing authenticity, with a cast of past principal performers from the West End production of Les Miserables. Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 5-Sep The Comedy Cow at Wonderworld An evening of live stand-up comedy from Milton Keynes’ only Friday night comedy provider. Wonderworld, 602 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3XS. 07790 86 4217 8-Sep RSC: The Two Gentlemen of Verona A perfomance of the Shakespeare classic. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117 10-14 Sep Midsummer’s Night Dream Shakespeare put some of his most dazzling dramatic poetry at the service of this teasing, glittering, hilarious and amazingly inventive play. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 8717607 12-Sep The Illeagal Eagles Extremely tight harmonies and an acute attention to detail are now synonymous with The Illegal Eagles. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough
EDITOR’S CHOICE
J
ason Manford is back at Watford Colosseum on Friday 19 September as his sell out First World Problems tour extends into the autumn. Renowned for his hilarious observations and loveable, friendly delivery, Jason has been a firm favourite with comedy fans of all ages, and First World Problems features a wealth of comedy anecdotes, comic misunderstandings and audience banter delivered with his trademark likeable charm and teasingly intelligent wit. Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN Tel: 0845 075 3993
Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0846 8717652 13-Sep Halfway to Paradise: The Billy Fury Story A shy young boy from Liverpool is re-christened ‘Billy Fury’ and becomes one of Britain’s best loved rock stars. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0847 8717652 15-Sep Psychic Sally: On The Road International psychic and star of hit TV show Psychic Sally: On The Road, Sally Morgan returns with her phenomenal interactive stage show. Bedford Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SJ. 01234 269519
16-Sep Ha Ha Hood The Ha Ha! team are back with a brand new and all-out outrageous comic romp. The funniest farce in the forest! Check out our exclusive interview with Ha Ha star Su Pollard online at www.eastlife.co.uk. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 871 7652 17-19 Sep Dawn French Dawn French, the Queen of British comedy, performs her first ever solo tour. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 871 7652 19-28 Sep Westside Story The tragic story of a love that crosses boundaries on the gang infested streets of New York features some of the most popular songs in musical theatre history. Rhodes Theatre, South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 651746 21-Sep Sing-a-long Grease The evening begins with your host leading a vocal warm-up before they show you how to use your free fun pack. You’ll even get a chance to learn how to hand jive. Then just sit back and watch Danny & Sandy and the gang. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 871 7652 22-27 Sep The Mousetrap The scene is set when a group of people gathered in a country house cut off by the snow discover, to their horror, that there is a murderer in their midst. Who can it be? Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 871 7652 22-27 Sep Absurd Person Singular Full of great gags and seasoned with truthful tragedy, you are guaranteed an evening of laugh-out loud fun! Queen Mother Theatre, Walsworth Road, Hitchin, SG4 9SP. 01462 455166 27-Sep Panto Factor Grand Final After the huge success of last year’s talent show and Dunstable’s love for Ben Irish, Panto Factor returns. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive,
eastlife.co.uk | 151
STEVENAGE GOLF & C ON F E R E N CE CENTRE
With an 18 hole Championship Course and a 9 hole Course perfect for beginners, Stevenage Golf and Conference Centre provide a great day of Golf for all. Stevenage Golf Course has seen significant development in the last 24 months following the appointment of a specialist Golf Course maintenance company. This upgrade, coupled with our excellent and friendly bar, well stock Pro Shop and relaxed countryside surroundings, places Stevenage Golf and Conference Centre amongst the best municipal Golf Courses in the county. The John Jacobs room is perfect for Golf Societies, Weddings, Celebration Parties and Funeral Wakes. There are superb conference facilities, so you can work and play in the same day. Excellent cuisine is available for all tastes all day, all year round. For more information, please call our Events Team on 01438 880223. We look forward to welcoming you to our Centre.
Find us online www.stevenage-leisure.co.uk/stevenagegolfcentre 50 | eastlife.co.uk
/StevenageGolfConferenceCentre
BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Dunstable, LU5 4GP. 01582 290333 27 Sept - 18 Oct Love Me Do A funny, touching love story, set in an England where you can’t get a decent cup of coffee and everyone thinks the world will end on Sunday. Watford Palace Theatre, Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 225671 30-Sep Lee Nelson It’s time for Lee to return to ‘Get Stuffed’ in Tring with a night of qwaliteeee jokes, games and banter. Everyone’s welcome. The Court Theatre @ Pendley, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. 07545 560478
Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01439 363200 9-Sep London Red This talented young jazz band has a string of prestigious gigs under their belts and red braces. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 10-Sep Mid-week Music A guitar duo that interprets tunes from the 1920s to the 60s in a jazzy style reminiscent of Django Reinhardt. Duo D’or are Ron Wilson and Olly Dowlen. Entry is free. Rhodes Theatre, South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 651746
MUSIC 11-Sep The Hair Rock Experience 3-Sep Moments in Wax Share your favourite records and vote for your favourite album! The Buzsy, 401 Eldergate, Milton Keynes, MK9 1LR. 07545 528 919 4-Sep Forever in Blue Jeans Join in one of the greatest parties in town, with music from the rock‘n’roll 1950s, the swinging 60s, the Motown 70s and the Abba 80s. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 5-Sep Pink Punters Live Live bands performing live every Friday night in the Cellar Bar. 2 Watling Street, Fenny Stratford, Milton Keynes MK2 2BS. 01908 377444 5-Sep Let’s Hang On This award-winning production is a musical journey through the prolific career of one of the most successful bands of all time - Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 6-Sep Unforgettable The music of some of the biggest artists provides a night of world class entertainment and nostalgia that you will never forget! Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 6-Sep Shakatak Shakatak have enjoyed a level of success and career longevity rarely achieved in contemporary music. The band enjoys both cult status and popular recognition due to their many hits. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 7-Sep Q The Music Q The Music is a totally live performance of the very best Bond themes with amazing vocals accompanied by an outstanding band of musicians plucked from leading orchestras.
Whether you missed it the first time round, or simply long for it to return, this is an opportunity to enjoy classics from the likes of Bon Jovi, Poison, White Snake, Aerosmith, Motley Crue and many more. Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01440 363200 12-14 Sept Herts Jazz Festival A jam packed schedule of musical performances from talented artists. Hawthorn Theatre, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX. 01707 357117 14-Sep James Rhodes This concert tour celebrates the release of his memoir, ‘Instrumental’, a tribute to the therapeutic powers of music, as well as a fascinating insight into the lives of some of the great composers. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 19-Sep The Willows The Willows are a folk roots family band from Cambridge. Fronted by the breathtaking voice of Jade Rhiannon, supported by rich vocal harmonies and sensitive acoustic musicianship, the band draw inspiration from the British folk and Americana traditions in equal quantity. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800
07543 560478 29-Sep Jackson Live in Concert Jackson Live in Concert sees long-time fan and hugely talented Ben recreate the Michael Jackson experience with his stunning rendition of all his favourite songs. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 2-25 Sep Hitchin Art Club Exhibition The annual exhibition from one of the first art clubs to be founded in Hertfordshire. Letchworth Arts Centre, The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3EW. 01462 670788 5 Sep-5 Oct Bucks, Beds & Herts Print Society An exciting printmaking exhibition from the BBH print society. Hand pulled prints of all techniques that include linocut, screenprint, collagraph, solarprint, etching and drypoint. Obsidian Art, The Bucks Goat Centre, Old Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville, HP22 5XJ. 01296 612150 13-20 Sep Les Miller New Horizons + Get swept away by the work of Les Miller. Les takes over the gallery with his magical textures and colours. One show not to miss. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 22 Sep-16 Oct Members’ Show A new display of the latest creations from our collective of 45 artists. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995
SPECIAL EVENTS 4-Sep Love to Dance Community Dance sessions for 50+. Rhodes Theatre, South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 651746
19-Sep Showaddywaddy The live show is dynamic and uplifting featuring all of their biggest hits, many of which reached number one in the pop charts of Europe. Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable LU5 4GP. 01582 290333
11-Sep Small Aubergine - Pop-up restaurant & live music night Run by Saira Hamilton, the 2013 Master Chef semi-finalist with music from the Stacey McCarthy Acoustic Trio. Popup dining is a new way for Saira to reach out to more diners who are eager to try the “small aubergine” style of food: Bengali-inspired dishes using the best of British produce. £33 per person. Rhodes Theatre, South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 651746
20-Sep The Ghosts of Pripyat Guitarist and founder member of the multi-million-album-selling rock band Marillion, Steve Rothery launches his long-awaited solo album ‘The Ghosts of Pripyat’. The Court Theatre at Pendley, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY.
20-Sep Gamlingay Show Lots of activities for the whole family to include classic car show, arena events, refreshments, funfair and other rides, craft marquee and lots more. Gamlingay Village College, Station Road, Sandy, SG19 3HD. 01767 650124
eastlife.co.uk | 153
ate! Save the d
CAMRA Beer Festival l Harpenden Street Festival l Charity Gourmet Night l St Albans Street Festival l Food and Drink Awards l Offers and Discounts l Tasting events l Workshops l
& HARPENDEN
And more...
www.enjoystalbans.com/foodanddrinkfestival www.twitter.com/stalbansfdf 24 SEPT TO 6 OCTOBER
2014
XX | eastlife.co.uk SAFDF-Advert-240hx168w.indd 1
17/07/2014 09:33
AREA FOCUS
HEAD TO HARPENDEN
W
alking down Harpenden’s wide tree-lined High Street towards the open Common, it is easy to see why residents say they live in a village. In fact they don’t, they are part of a thriving town with a fast rail link from London and easy access from the M1. But despite the many shops, cafes and bars, the impression is of a rural retreat. Its atmosphere, location and facilities have made it one of the country’s most-sought after towns with a growing population of 30,000 residents. With London only a 30 minute train ride away and Luton airport less than five miles away, it’s clear to see why this flourishing town is a favourite among commuters. Attractions A long list of famous former residents includes much loved comedian Eric Morcambe and, a little further south at Childwickbury, the film director Stanley Kubrick. The Victorian actress Ellen Terry also lived in the town from 1868 until 1874. However attractive the town streets are and however long you linger in the shops or one of the many cafes or pubs, don’t miss the chance to look around the green spaces that flank the town. The 238-acre Common on the road out to St Albans, has Green Flag status and boasts a wide range of wide life. It is a wonderful venue for walks and is also used by many sportsmen including golfers and cricket players. The Common was once home to an annual horse race meeting. Today’s visitors to Rothamsted Park in the town are in for an even more spectacular treat when the
annual Highland Gathering is held in July. The town’s stores include High Street chains and individual stores selling everything from gifts to clothes, books and delicatessen treats. Visitors come especially for the monthly farmers’ market, on the fourth Sunday of the month from 10am until 2pm, to buy delicious cheese, plants, preserves, cakes and crafts. Places to eat On the High Street you’ll find a restaurant to suit all tastes and budgets. For Italian head to Zaza, which serves authentic dishes and hosts a popular wine tasting evening on the last Sunday of each month, which is a real hit with its many regular food and wine lovers. If you’re staying overnight or enjoy a scrumptious meal to start the day, visit Okka on the high street for breakfast or brunch. The restaurant is an all day eatery with a Mediterranean influence. Places to stay Harpenden House Hotel is a firm favourite with visitors but if you’re looking for something a little more homely try The Old Cock Inn, which has six stylish boutique bedrooms. What’s on? St Albans and Harpenden Food and Drink Festival, 24 Sept to 6 Oct This wonderful festival showcases the fantastic range of food, drink and produce available throughout St Albans District. With so many excellent eateries providing fabulous food and delightful drinking holes, the festival is a great time to try something new or different.
eastlife.co.uk |155
156 | eastlife.co.uk
SUFFOLK
What’s on in
Suffolk?
THEATRE & SHOWS 1-13 Sep The Late Edwina Black A classic psychological thriller. The recent death of his domineering invalid wife means that Gregory is now free to marry her erstwhile companion. But then, a police inspector arrives... Southwold Theatre, Cumberland Road Southwold , IP18 6JP. 01502 722572 3-Sep The Two Gentlemen of Verona RSC This is the first time in 45 years ‘The Two Gentlemen of Verona’ has been performed in full production on the Royal Shakespeare Theatre stage. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 4-Sep Medea Helen McCrory stars in the title role of the powerful Greek tragedy ‘Medea’ by Euripides, in a new version by Ben Power. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 4-12 Sep Three Men in a Boat Craig Gilbert’s ingenious, acclaimed adaption of Jerome K Jerome’s classic tale of boating misadventure returns to the UK stage this Autumn armed with more singing & wilder adventures. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 9-14 Sep Riverdance: 20 Years Tour This 20th Anniversary UK Tour, gives Riverdance fans old and new, the opportunity to celebrate an incredible milestone for an incredible show. Ipswich Corn Exchange, King Street, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100 13-Sep Saturday Night Boxing United States Servicemen battle the Best in all of England. The Apex, Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 13-Sep Last Night of the Proms Bury St Edmunds Concert Band return with their sell-out concert evening to celebrate the finale of the terrific summer season of The Proms. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 14-Sep Fat Cat Comedy Club Multi-award winning comedian, actor and writer Ricky Grover performs as
EDITOR’S CHOICE
17-Sep Suffolk Stories An evening of two stories; ‘The Broken Token and Fishskin Trousers’. Lubkinfinds Theatre, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 17-Sep Paul Chowdhry The host of Channel 4’s Stand Up For ‘The Wee’k and Star of BBC1’s ‘Live at the Apollo’ is back with his biggest tour to date. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200
L
eiston’s Long Shop Museum ‘in the Great War’ exhibition continues until 1 November, with the Museum open 7 days a week through September. On most Thursday evenings through September and October, there are talks at the Museum on WW1 themes – from WW1 poets, to Zeppelins, to Conscientious Objectors – and on Friday 12 September, a concert of music of the period played by the Leiston Royal British Legion Band. All of these events start at 7.30pm and tickets for the talks cost £5 – and £6 for the band concert. ‘Harvest Past’ is also being celebrated at Peakhill Farm, Theberton, on 28th September, in support of the Museum. Further details – www.longshopmuseum.co.uk or tel: 01728 832189
well s newcomer Sophie Hagen and Charlie Baker, who is a popular face on TV panel shows. The Apex, Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 16-Sep La Traviata The story of Violetta, a so-called ‘fallen woman’ who sacrifices her own happiness for the sake of her lover’s family and future, La Traviata has been thrilling audiences for generations. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505
18-19 Sep Stowaway The wheels of a Boeing 777 unfold out of the belly of a plane as it begins its descent towards Heathrow. The frozen body of a stowaway is tipped out. The premiere of a brand new show by Analogue. New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900 19-Sep Silent Movie Experience the real magical nostalgia of cinema; moving pictures and live music - nothing else! The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0845 6732123 22-23 Sep Dawn French 30 Million Minutes The show will consist of various delights and riches, with the odd irksome tribulation thrown in, as Dawn takes audiences through the various lessons life has taught her. Ipswich Corn Exchange, King Street, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100 23-27 Sep You’re Never Too Old This enchanting gem of a one-act play comes direct to the Theatre Royal from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, prior to a UK tour. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 26-Sep An Evening of Burlesque Enjoy an all-new riotous romp into the bizarre world of burlesque and cutting-edge variety. Sashaying Royal Academy-trained beauties slip into exotic character as smoothly as they slip out of gloriously exotic couture costumes. The Apex, Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 29-Sep Happy Days Wit, irony and surrealism are used to pose fundamental questions about
eastlife.co.uk | 157
158 | eastlife.co.uk
SUFFOLK the human condition in this universal comic-tragic production. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 29-Sep For the Sake of Example The Trial of Benjamin Hart; a talk presented by Dr John Greenacre, First World War Centenary Project Coordinator from University Campus Suffolk. New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. 01473 295900
intimate evening. The Apex, Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 18-Sep Call Mr. Robeson A rollercoaster journey through African-American actor and singer Paul Robeson’s life, highlighting how his activism led to his downfall. Theatre Royal,Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505
5 Sep - 13 Oct Any Port In A Storm An exhibition of paintings and prints featuring harbours. Sea Pictures Gallery, Well Lane, Clare, CO10 8NH. 01787 279024 6-24 Sep Open Exhibition An exhibition of amateur or professional works including photographs, textiles and sculptures. Halesworth Gallery, Steeple End, Halesworth IP19 8LL. 01986 873064
19-Sep BurySOUND Unplugged 12-18 Sep Mita Higton Exhibition, The Local young musicians performing Workshop in the bar. Free entry. The Apex, Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, Mita Higton lives in Suffolk with her 4-27 Sep Midsummer Songs IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 artist husband, Steve Higton. Snape This brand new musical is a celebraMaltings, Bridge Road, Snape, IP17 tion of friendship, survival and the 20-Sep Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise 1SR. 01728 688303 power of song. New Wolsey Theatre, Rock ‘n’ Roll Paradise is a brilliant rock Civic Drive, Ipswich, IP1 2AS. ‘n’ roll show where the music plays 13-Sep Photographic Paradise - Walk 01473 295900 and Workshop the leading role! Marina Theatre, The This is an event for people interested Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 5-Sep Abi Moore presents: Songwriters in walking through forest, heath and 01502 533200 of the 70s reed-beds in the Blyth Valley and creJoin singer/songwriter Abi Moore on ating powerful images for an instant 24-Sep Albert Lee & Hogan’s Heroes a journey celebrating the best of the Albert Lee, by common consent one photographic exhibition on the theme great 70s songwriters. Fisher Theatre, of the world’s finest guitar-players, of ‘Paradise’ for display. The Cut, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. needs no introduction to Country New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 01986 897130 Music & Rock fans. The Apex, Charter 0845 6732123 Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 6-Sep Jade Mayjean Peters 01284 758000 19-25 Sep Roy Rodgers Show, The Suffolk’s latest singing star Jade Workshop Mayjean Peters will be starring in her 28-Sep The Back to Basie Orchestra This is a show of the dramatic paintings own concert. Ipswich Corn Exchange, Great Britain’s Count Basie tribute of Suffolk’s wonderful landscapes, seaKing Street, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. orchestra. Directed by trumpeter Paul scapes and skies by noted artist Roy 01473 433100 Rodgers. Snape Maltings, Bridge Road, Lacey, the Orchestra features top Snape, IP17 1SR. 01728 688303 London session musicians and jazz 13-Sep The Pure Floyd Show soloists. The Apex, Charter Square, Bury A treat for all Pink Floyd fans. The St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 Pure Floyd Show returns to the Fisher SPECIAL EVENTS Theatre with their high energy tribute ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 6-Sep Medieval Banquet to the music of the legendary Pink Medieval food, drink and entertainFloyd. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 1 Sep - 26 Oct Rembrandt the ment. Costumes welcome. The Best Printmaker Western Brome Grange Hotel, Norwich 13-Sep Marcus Collins and His Band The works, on loan from the outstandRoad, Eye, IP23 8AP. 01379 870456 The XFactor runner up will be taking to ing Rembrandt prints collections of the stage alongside his 7 piece band The British Museum and The Fitzwilliam 7-Sep Beccles Duck Race with a collection of Motown clasMuseum, are brought together to exThis is the 10th Anniversary of the Becsics and brand new material from his plore the Dutch master’s remarkable cles Duck Race! Buy a rubber duck, second album. Marina Theatre, achievements in the medium that dress it up and race it down the river The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. have inspired generations. Gainsborfor your chance to win first price! There ough’s House, Gainsborough Street, 01502 533200 will be stalls, attractions and entertainSudbury, CO10 2EU. 01787 372958 ment on the day for a fun family-day 15-Sep Bury St Edmunds Concert out. The Quay, Beccles, NR34 9BB. Series 4-Sep Books in the Spotlight 07786 486035 The quartet have performed widely An opportunity to see some of the rare and interesting books in the collection 14-Sep Living History - Harvest Festival throughout the UK. Churchgate Meetwhich are not normally on display. Dr Experience Ickworth Lives Living Hising House, Westgate Street, Bury St Maggie Exon, retired lecturer on the tory days which tells the real stories of Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 history of books and her team, talk the people who lived and worked at about the Hervey family and their lives Ickworth in the thirties. Ickworth House, 17-Sep Georgie Fame in Concert Georgie, with his much loved blend of through the books that they collected Bury St Edmunds, IP29 5QE. and read. Ickworth Estate, Bury St Jazz and Rhythm & Blues, is an icon of 01284 735270 the British music scene, with more than Edmunds, IP29 5QE. 01284 735270 twenty albums and fourteen hit singles. 26-Sep Sudbury Farmer’s Market 5-11 Sep Peter Williams Exhibition The Apex, Charter Square, Bury St Whether it has been brewed, baked, Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 Peter will be displaying his highly debutchered or harvested nothing will tailed pencil drawings and dramatic have travelled further than 50 miles 18-Sep Nik Kershaw watercolour paintings as well as a to be at the market with many of the Nik will perform songs and stories from selection of giclée prints. Snape Malttraders coming from Hadleigh, Boxford ings, Bridge Road, Snape, IP17 1SR. his career and take (potentially) awkand Long Melford. St Peter’s Church 01728 688303 Market Hill, Sudbury, CO10 2EA. ward questions from the audience. This 0770 462 7973 is a rare opportunity to experience an
MUSIC
eastlife.co.uk | 159
Bridge Farm Barns
Discover something unique...
Traditional Toys & Games
Breakfasts, Lunches & Cream Teas
Pottery Painting & Decopatch Crafting
Beautiful Flowers & Plants
Large Selection of Gifts & Cards Vintage Collectables and Furniture
Falconry Displays
& Experiences
HOP S Y TO NOW E IN ONL XX | eastlife.co.uk
Monks Eleigh, Nr Lavenham, Suffolk IP7 7AY T: 01449 740456 www.bridgefarmbarns.co.uk
AREA FOCUS
STOWMARKET in the SPOTLIGHT
W
hether you’re living or working in Stowmarket, or just visiting the town, this is your guide to everything you need to know. Set in the heart of rural Suffolk on the River Gipping, Stowmarket was originally an agricultural market town, however industry developed upon the canalization of the River Gipping in 1793 bringing new prosperity to the town. Fast-forward to the present day and you’ll now find the old towpaths form an enjoyable footpath through the Gipping Valley from Stowmarket railway station to the docks at Ipswich. Attractions Even though it is growing in size and population, Stowmarket hasn’t lost its charm. It boasts a variety of listed buildings, typical of Suffolk’s towns and villages, notably St Peter & St Mary’s Church. Not to be missed is the Museum of East Anglian Life, one of the UK’s leading open-air museums. Here you can discover the history and natural world of East Anglia on a beautiful 75 acre site, learn about fascinating East Anglian crafts and traditional Gypsy culture, get steamed up with powerful engines and meet friendly animals including rare breeds of cattle and sheep. Visitors can explore 15 splendidly restored historic buildings including the renowned Abbot’s Hall. Places to eat From independent restaurants and cafes to cosy country pubs, you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy
a bite to eat. Just outside Stowmarket alongside the wheat fields of Forward Green is The Dog & Shepherd. The pub has been part of the community for many years and has always been somewhere special for both locals and passers-by alike. Its most recent transformation has seen it develop into a country bar, contemporary lounge and a modern eatery. Proud to be Stowmarket’s first wine bar, Winchester’s Wine Bar & Bistro situated on the High Street is perfect for lunch, light bites or a casual drink. The bistro offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere and plays host to evening events such as themed nights, quizzes, tastings and music sessions. Places to stay Stowmarket is home to an array of charming and peaceful bed and breakfasts. For a real sense of country life, Bays Farm, a beautifully restored farmhouse nestled in the countryside of Forward Green is the perfect place to stay. Guests can enjoy five-star luxury, tranquil gardens and a relaxed experience. Verandah House is a wonderful guesthouse in a historic grade II listed building, which offers a fine example of a Georgian gentleman’s residence. The accommodation offers just seven rooms in total and a delicious breakfast. What’s on? This month don’t miss the Stowmarket Beach Party taking place Saturday 6 September. The popular event returns for more fun and frolics. Enjoy live music and family activities.
eastlife.co.uk | 161
SOCIAL SCENE
GET INVOLVED with the
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!
Our lucky competition winner Susan had a fab time at ‘The Last Night of the Proms’ concert at Audley End. House
Reader Brett Wraight sent us sone stunning images of Mersea Island, Essex via Facebook
WIN, WIN, WIN! “TWEET TWEET” A Selection of our favourite tweets from the last month: From @poppystearoomuk Aug 8 “Bookings for #afternoontea as a result of coverage in latest @Eastmagazines & the #WaldenLocal. Thank you! #Essex” From @Lauren_Baker_1 Aug 2 “Just arrived at #AudleyEnd ready for #80snight @ AudleyConcerts thank you @Eastmagazines for our tickets we won! So excited! :)”
This month Eastlife are offering the opportunity to WIN a Christmas party with Best Parties Ever! By Liking our Facebook Page and/or following us on Twitter & Instagram you could win a table for 10 people worth £500 on any night of your choice (subject to availability) at a ‘Premiere...Red Carpet in the Riviera’ themed Christmas party hosted by Best Parties Ever at Aldenham Country Park, near Elstree, Hertfordshire. The prize includes a four-course meal, live music and a professional cast of aerialists, acrobats and West End singers and dancers. Competition ends 19 September. What are you waiting for? Enter NOW!
‘Like’ our Facebook page /eastlifemag Follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines
Follow our Instagram @eastlifemag
162 | eastlife.co.uk
S
hare your photos of East Anglia with us on our Facebook wall and be featured in the next edition of Eastlife!
eastlife.co.uk | XX
eastlife.co.uk | XX