Eastlife December 2017

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Living life in the East

December 2017

Your guide to Christmas in the East • Santa’s grottos • Christmas events • gifts and more

The GLC. Power and finesse combined.

Introducing Mercedes-Benz first ever mid-sized SUV for the UK market. A remarkable vehicle, it boasts the muscular looks and capabilities of a 4x4, yet it handles with finesse and agility. Standard features include 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive while options include the Off-Road Package and AIR BODY CONTROL suspension to further enhance the car’s off-road credentials.

Producing 170 hp and 400 Nm of torque, the GLC 220 d 4MATIC clocks 0 to 62 mph in 8.3 seconds. Yet it returns up to 56.5 mpg combined with CO2 emissions as low as 129 g/km.

Representative example GLC 220 d 4MATIC Sport

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

£349 £34,802 £6,899 £1,463.85 £19,200 £27,903 £38,673 £10.00 5.6% 5.41%

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

offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance on behalf of other finance companies as well. GLC 220 d 4MATIC Sport at £34,802 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Specification imagery may show optional features.

Content relating to finance is promoted by Mercedes-Benz Finance. Your Retailer may offer finance on behalf of other companies. *Finance offers based on selected GLC models on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement, on 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and Retailer deposit contribution. Orders/credit approvals on selected models between 1 October and 31 December 2018, registered by 31 March 2018. Guarantees may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Finance, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of print 11/17.

The best or nothing.

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

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

07/11/2017 15:57

eastlife would like to thank its

CONTRIBUTORS RUBY REED Lifestyle writer GERLA DE BOER Globetrotter foodie

DOLLY OSBORNE Mummy, blogger and frustrated novelist SUE COOKE Motoring journalist TRACEY DEAN Writer and photographer WENDY HOWES Garden columnist KATRINA OTTER Wedding planner extraordinaire COLLETTE HOEFKENS Artist & proprietor at Norton Way Gallery

PUBLISHER Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696 EDITOR Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904 PRODUCTION MANAGER Paul Balaam paul@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142 SOCIAL MEDIA Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539 ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129 SALES ENQUIRIES Darren Marshall - 07826 628680 Stewart Hedges - 07595 894557 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635 HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth Cambridge, CB23 4EY 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.

A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR Dear Reader, It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! As well as being completely acceptable to eat mince pies, drink mulled wine and binge watch Christmas films, December brings with it plenty of festive fun. From Santa’s Grottos and Christmas markets to carols and crafts, make sure you take the time in between shopping and prepping to enjoy the wonderful events our region has to offer.

If like me, you haven’t finished the Christmas shopping, let alone thought about festive food, take a look at our last minute gift ideas and read our guide to the best shopping destinations in the East.

We also have tips from the region’s best chefs to help plan Christmas dinner!

Wherever you may be in East Anglia this Christmas, there’s something for you to enjoy!

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Emma Kemsley

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DECEMBER 11-15 NEWS FLASH A round-up of monthly news and events

CONTENTS

19-23 FESTIVE FUN 12 great Christmas events 27-29 PARTY VENUES The best NYE offers 35-37 GIFT GUIDE Find the perfect present 39-41 DOG-FRIENDLY Tails About Town & gifts for pets & owners 43-47 LITTLE EAST Mum’s the Word & the best Santa’s Grottos 51-59 FOOD & DRINK News, the Cambridge Foodie and top tips for cooking Christmas dinner 61-63 HEALTH Christmas party prep and foot care

59

65-67 FASHION Fast fashion and party looks 68-69 WEDDINGS Decor and details for a Christmas wedding 77-85 INTERIORS Festive decor, lighting & property 89 ARTS Arts news 91-103 SUFFOLK Ipswich and Christmas on the Suffolk Coast 107-115 NORFOLK Secret Norfolk & Wells-next-the-Sea 117-127 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Festivities in Bedford, St Albans & Newport Pagnell 129-137 CAMBRIDGESHIRE Christmas shopping in Cambridge plus the best events in Cambs 140-145 ESSEX 10 Essex gift ideas

32 71

75 140

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13/11/2017 11:30

NEWS FLASH

THE PETERBOROUGH BISCUIT IS BACK BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER. The Peterborough Biscuit is back with a bang on 7 February 2018 at the East of England Arena & Events Centre, and is shaping up to be a colossal event.

The Peterborough Biscuit is the ground breaking business event that has taken the area by storm.

Having launched in February of this year, it experienced a phenomenal 130 exhibitors and over 1,000 visitors attending the event, with impeccable reviews from both visitors and exhibitors.

No longer a business event but a business festival, with up to 370 business in attendance and a forecast of 3000+ visitors, 2018 sees the introduction of a retail area, ‘The Biscuit Marketplace,’ which is featuring independent retailers from the Peterborough and Stamford area. Here you can buy clothing, accessories, food and groceries.

There will be entertainment in the form of reaction tests, driving simulators and a new mystery game.

Live singers will be at the event providing some soft music in order to conduct your business in style and elegance.

NEWS FLASH

Advertorial

The team at Peterborough Biscuit are dedicated in growing local business connections of the Peterborough community, which they have successfully done through the event and additional events that they run in conjunction with various businesses like Peterborough Does Business, Metrobank, The Peterborough Greyhound Stadium & many others.

With the help of these organisations and more they have provided the business community with great connections on a large and small scale.

The main focus for 2018 is to be seen as “the” professional staple in the Peterborough business calendar.

The event isn’t just for businesses in Peterborough, likeminded people from all over East Anglia are encouraged to visit as well to have an experience like none before.

If you want to get involved and be an exhibitor or come along and visit for the day please go to the website at www.peterboroughbiscuit.co.uk or give the biscuit team a call on 01733 669405.

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Late night shopping event at Clacton Factory Outlet 21st December 4pm – 8pm Staying open late for those last minute bits...

All stores and restaurants open until 8pm Spin the wheel for your chance to win!

Festive socks, chocs or a voucher for one of our stores... what will you land on!* Be enchanted by our fabulous live, illuminated Christmas fairies – The Glitter Belles Mince pies, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts to keep you toasty warm *proof of purchase required to take part

Clacton Factory Outlet, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4TL Contact us or visit us online to get more news on events, store offers and much more!

01255 479595 www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk

FASHION OUTLETS | LEISURE STORES | CAFES FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES | FREE PARKING

ALL STORES & RESTAURANTS WILL BE OPEN UNTIL 8PM!

SKATE INTO A WINTER WONDERLAND AT RIVERSIDE ICE AND LEISURE CENTRE This Christmas, Chelmsford’s Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre will again be transformed into a magical winter wonderland.

Each weekend in December, starting on Saturday 2nd until Christmas Eve, the 56m by 26m ice rink will be adorned with Christmas decorations and snow machines to create an extra special wintry feel for skaters. The wonderland includes a Santa’s Grotto, his elves and special appearances by Pop the Penguin.

The winter wonderland will also be open for non-skaters to soak up the seasonal atmosphere and enjoy a mince pie and glass of mulled wine.

To find out more visit: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/winterwonderland

TAKE PART IN SOUTHEND BID’S FESTIVE ART TRAIL AND YOU COULD WIN £1,000!

Southend BID has has partnered with artists from the Estuary Fringe Festival to create a Festive Art Trail from 18 November to 20 December.

Allowing parents to finish their Christmas shopping while keeping the children entertained, pick up a map from outside TK Maxx inside The Royals Shopping Centre and then follow the trail along Southend’s High Street looking at the artworks on display in selected locations. Hidden in each piece is a cheeky elf and all you have to do is make a note of the colour of each one on your map.

There are eight elves in total and once you’ve found them all, simply visit Lemon Witch Kitchen, in Queens Road near the top of the High Street, and pop your completed map into the special post box before 5pm on Wednesday 20 December.

Created especially by artists – including graffiti legends STER, Nik Vaughn AKA Mr Frisbee and Scotty Brave - for the competition, the artworks take the form of street art, sculptures, model villages and movie shorts. The winning entry will be drawn at random and announced on Visit Southend’s Facebook page at midday on Friday 22 December. For more information visit www.visitsouthend.co.uk/christmas

Image: Robert Hubbard

CROMER’S NEW YEAR’S DAY FIREWORK DISPLAY 2018 Start the New Year with a bang with a visit to the Cromer Pier New Year’s Day Firework Display on 1 January at 5pm.

Organisers have once again teamed up with Titanium Fireworks to create the display, and prior to the fireworks there will be a one-mile fun run along Cromer Promenade at 3pm organized by North Norfolk Beach Runners. Registration will take place from 2.30pm for a fee of £1. The event is free to attend but donations towards the 2019 display are welcome. Visit www.cromer-tc.gov.uk or the event’s Facebook page ‘New Year’s Day Fireworks, Cromer’ for updates.

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Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS AT HINCHINGBROOKE HOUSE We are now taking reservations for our party nights December 1st and December 16th Our Fantastic party nights start with our close up magician, followed by 3 course meal with coffee then party the night away with our resident DJ

£41 PER PERSON To book please call Lynn 01480 375678 or Craig 07808 262462 The Hospitality Office – HinchingbrookE House Brampton, Cambridgeshire, PE29 3BN

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SWAN AT LAVENHAM LAUNCHES 2018 VINTAGE 1940s CALENDAR The Swan at Lavenham Hotel & Spa has launched a 2018 vintage calendar featuring photographs from the village’s first 1940s commemorative weekend, which was held last May to mark the ‘Friendly Invasion’ of East Anglia by US forces in support of World War II. In 2018 the hotel will again be joining with ‘Friends of Lavenham Airfield’ and vintage events group, The Baker Boy Collective, to celebrate all things 1940s between 18 and 21 May. An ideal Christmas gift, the calendars are priced at £11.99 each, including P&P to a UK address. They are now on sale at The Swan Hotel and Weavers’ House Spa or call 01787 247 477 to have a calendar sent to you.

EVIE & LOLA, POPS UP IN BEDFORD In the lead up to Christmas, the arts and craft workshop brand Evie & Lola, will be hosting a Christmas Pop Up in Bedford to help support local producers.

Taking over the currently empty shop space at 14-16 The Arcade, formerly Hanworth Interiors, from 21 November until Christmas Eve, the community run pop up will become a café, gift shop and workshop venue.

Visitors will be able to browse and buy arts and crafts from local producers, work on an ad-hoc craft whilst enjoying time in the café, or take part in a workshop, hosted by local creative people.

Everything available to purchase in the shop will be produced by Bedfordshire artisans and crafters – right down to the milk and coffee!

Full details can be found at www.facebook.com/EvieAndLola

have the answer with its vetted, licensed and insured home boarding service.

Allowing your dog to enjoy the comfort of a family home while you’re away, meaning peace of mind for you as your dog can continue with their usual routines. Petstay carers are mad about dogs and keen to welcome your pampered pooch into their homes, some carers will even send you photographs while you’re away!

PET CARE AT CHRISTMAS Christmas is a time to spend with family and loved ones, but for dog-owners it can often raise a few problems. Travelling and overnight stays often means that the family dog can’t take part in the festivities, thankfully, local company PetStay Norfolk

Petstay Norfolk owner Sophia Guymer, a former vet, said: “At Petstay Norfolk, each carer has been inspected by me and the local authority to ensure that they meet the high standards required to become a PetStay dog carer and to become a licensed dog carer.”

To find out more about Petstay Norfolk, visit www.petstay.net

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A Tudor festival on the anniversary of Katharine of Aragon’s burial at Peterborough Cathedral, 29th January 1536.

Alison Weir • Pottage & Ale Supper • Tours • Family Events • Lauren Mackay

FIND OUT MORE

01733 355 315

peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/katharine2018.aspx Peterborough Cathedral, Minster Precincts, Peterborough PE1 1XS

All events take place at Peterborough Cathedral unless otherwise specified.

Enjoy our

FAMILY BUFFET EVERY SUNDAY 12 - 5PM £9.95 Adult £4.95 Children under 10

Book your

Christmas Celebrations

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for a memorable experience To celebrate the festive season we are offering readers a 20% discount from the total bill to enjoy a sumptuous feast until 31st December when you mention this advert.

T&C’s Apply: Advanced booking required.

Maximum 6 people per booking.

For Bookings Contact... 01908 216426 - 614115 reservations@kakori.co.uk | www.kakori.co.uk

97-101 High Steet,Newport Pagnell, MK16 8EN Open 7 days from 21st November - 19th December

Forest for Peterborough, run by the environmental charity PECT, is an exciting project to plant over 180,000 trees by 2030.

The aim is to plant one tree for every person in Peterborough.

We want to increase tree coverage, form a vital network of wildlife corridors and green spaces, and improve our local environment for future generations of city residents.

How you can get involved Volunteer at planting days Provide land for trees Donate online

Call 01733 568408 or visit www.pect.org.uk/forest

LIFESTYLE

Christmas is Coming...

Written by Abby Knight

Whether it’s a jolly Christmas singalong, sparkling festive lights or the last chance to pick up a present or two from a festive market, we’ve rounded up 12 of the very best things to do this December!

1. A CHRISTMAS CAROL GOES TO THE CIRCUS The Oak House Centre in central Norwich will be presenting three family friendly performances of their Dickens themed cabaret version of ‘A Christmas Carol’ from 15-17 December. Inspired by the ever popular Dickens novel, this circus flavoured performance gives the audience the opportunity to join in the fun and see some heart-stopping aerial and floor acrobatics. For details visit the www.theoakcircuscentre.org or call 01603 568 634.

Annabel by Mark Robson, Inept Gravity

The glitter team at The Reindeer

2.RUDOLPH FLIES INTO CAMBRIDGE The Cambridge Union in the centre of the city will be transformed into a twinkling, festive wonderland, with the famous Debating space becoming a Winter Chamber where Jay Scrimshaw from the award-winning Guerrilla Kitchen will be serving up a 4-course winter feast on banqueting tables. Taking place 19-20 December, The Reindeer event features entertainment including a Winter Wonderland photo booth and Santa Surprises and ticket price includes dinner, welcome drink and half bottle of wine per guest. Tickets are £65 with late December dates available, visit mylittlefestival.uk for details.

3.GET READY FOR SOME FESTIVE GIN Get all wrapped up and head for the roof top of The Varsity Hotel & Spa in Cambridge where there will be the chance to try over 30 types of delicious gin at a pop-up bar on 6 December complete with cosy cushions and blankets. As well as gin cocktails you’ll be treated to warm mince pies while enjoying the sight of the beautiful East Anglia sky line. Open to non-residents as well as hotel guests each hot gin cocktail is priced at £8.50. For further information visit thevarsityhotel.co.uk

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4. STRIKE UP THE BAND The perfect way to get in the festive spirit, one of the county’s most popular bands Prime Brass presents a special brand of music in a one hour concert for all the family featuring some of your favourite Christmas songs on 10 December. Prime Brass will be joined by Junior Prime Bass and local school choirs to perform at a Christmas concert you won’t forget. Concerts take place in the University of Cambridge Music Facility price from £7.50, visit adcticketing.com for details or call 01223 300085.

5. ENJOY THE MAGIC OF THE BORROWERS Take in the magical tradition of the Borrowers in a stunning dance performance version by DanceEast from 13 -17 December. The Borrowers capture the imagination of children and families of all ages and this much loved book by Mary Norton is brought to live by the contemporary dance company in Ipswich’s Jerwood DanceHouse with beautiful handpainted animation that makes it a festive treat for all the family. Ticket prices from £7, visit danceeast.co.uk or call 01473 295230.

6. MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERY BODY The creators of one of the best loved Christmas songs ever, ‘Merry Christmas Everybody’, Slade is coming to the Norwich Waterfront on 10 December.

With a popularity that’s lasted over 30 years, the

original glam rock band is still prominent on the festival scene and one of the most exciting bands on the road. Come and see them perform some of their very best roll and rock at this scenic venue. For details call 0114 222 8777 or visit thewaterfront.ticketabc.com.

7. STEAM AHEAD TO SANTA Each year the Bure Valley Railway welcomes it highly popular steam trains to Santa. The enchanting train ride starts in Wroxham and makes it way to Aylsham with the station dressed beautifully in twinkling lights to get everyone into the Christmas spirit as

The Borrowers at DanceEast

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father christmas will be with us throughout december so buy your ticket today!

GROTTO OPEN Date

Grotto Open Times

Saturday 2nd December Sunday 3rd December

11:00am – 5:00pm 10:00am – 4:00pm

Tuesday 5th December Wednesday 6th December Thursday 7th December Friday 8th December Saturday 9th December Sunday 10th December

12:00pm – 5:00pm 12:00pm – 5:00pm 12:00pm – 5:00pm 12:00pm – 4:00pm 5:00pm – 8:00pm 11:00am – 15:00pm 10:00am – 4:00pm

Tuesday 12th December Wednesday 13th December Thursday 14th December Friday 15th December Saturday 16th December Sunday 17th December

12:00pm – 5:00pm 12:00pm – 5:00pm 12:00pm – 5:00pm 12:00pm – 5:00pm 11:00am – 5:00pm 10:00am – 4:00pm

Tuesday 19th December Wednesday 20th December THURSday 21st December Friday 22nd December Saturday 23RD December Sunday 24th December

12:00pm – 5:00pm 12:00pm – 5:00pm 12:00pm – 5:00pm 12:00pm – 5:00pm 11:00am – 5:00pm 10:00am – 2:00pm

father christmas is on his way! home furnishings

come and see santa along with our professionally trimmed christmas trees and festive joys to behold in store! as well as our departments of sofas and Chairs, dining and bedroom furniture, fires and stoves, blinds, curtains, carpets a tearoom and more, Kerry’s has everything you’ll ever need for a truly magical Christmas. visit our showroom at: 3 -23 Suffolk Road, Lowestoft NR32 1DZ

or call us on: 01502 528599 www.kerrys.uk.com

Santa waits to greet everyone in his railway sleigh!

There is entertainment and festive refreshments for all the family before you climb aboard. Available on selected December dates, price £15, visit bvrw.co.uk for details and to book.

8.STOCK UP ON CHRISTMAS GIFTS Visit the picturesque village of Stock in Essex on the 2 December for the first annual Christmas Market.

Sponsored by award-winning local hotel Greenwoods Hotel and Spa, highlights include Christmas carols with the Salvation Army around the festive tree in the historic square, a mulled wine and prosecco van, local food, drink and gift stalls with wrapping service available on the day and festive theatre performances. Free entry from 4pm to 8pm.

9. LIGHT UP FOR CHRISTMAS A magical opportunity to see the magnificent state rooms of Holkham Hall dressed up with opulent Christmas decorations and beautiful flickering candlelight on selected dates throughout December.

Join one of the knowledgeable guides and enjoy a tour to see how the decorations were created and the history of the hall. Your ticket price includes a glass of mulled wine, soft drink or prosecco with dates throughout December. Prices from £12, visit holkham.co.uk for details and to book.

10.RUN SANTA RUN Help raise money for charity and burn off some calories before the festive feast in the annual fundraising event for Essex based charity Little Havens Hospice on 3 December. The event take place at the Wat Tyler Park nature reserve, near Pitsea and includes a 2.5km Reindeer run, live music choirs, festive food and so much more. Prices start from £8 with family ticket at £25 which includes a Santa suit for adults and festive headgear for children.

For further visit www.havenshospices.org.uk 11. HAVE A WILD TIME THIS CHRISTMAS See Santa Clause and enjoy some outdoors festive fun at Banham Zoo in Banham, Norfolk. A brilliant day out for all the family whatever time of year with over 2,000 animals to see including tropical birds, the rare two-toed sloth and lemurs, during selected dates during December you can also join in animalthemed Christmas crafts and face painting, tuck in

Visit Santa at the Bure Valley Railway

some tasty seasonal food and more. Sit back and enjoy one of the Amazing Animals presentations and pick up a gift or two in time for Christmas. For details of dates available and ticket prices, visit banhamzoo.co.uk.

12. GET CRAFTY Learn how to make a stunning Christmas wreath for you to take home to decorate your door at the popular wreath making workshop at The Suffolk Punch Trust, Woodbridge on 9 December. The Suffolk Punch trust which supports the pretty local horse breed with a series of events each year is open year round, tickets for the workshop are £50 and booking is essential, call 01394 411327 for details. suffolkpunchtrust.org

Discover more festive events at www.eastlife.co.uk Share your images with us using #eastlifexmas eastlife.co.uk

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Saturday - North Pole event Featuring

Giant Snow Globe Santa Express Land Train Reindeer procession with Father Christmas at 12.30, Santas Grotto

Sunday - Independents Christmas shopping event Featuring

Giant Snow Globe Santa’s Grotto Santa Express Land Train Special appearance by the Snow Lion

SAT t SUN 9 h DEC 10 th E MBE R

10am to 4pm www.hitchinherts.com

Welcome to High Lodge, Darsham

A Unique Venue

NU MAS ME CHRIST E DVANC A IN K – BOO

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

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

Make your own recycled Christmas decorations, meet the Holly King, join in with our festive quiz and ceilidh.

JOIN US FOR CHRISTMAS

AT THE GREEN BRITAIN CENTRE 12-2.30pm every Sunday

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visit the website www.highlodge.co.uk email info@highlodge.co.uk tel 01986 784347 find us just off the A12 near Darsham Suffolk IP17 3QT

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The Dorrington 2 great venues for your event!

The Trinity Suite

The Trinity Function Suite is on the first floor with its Hire the Trinity Night Club forand private nightclub appearance is an ideal venue for wedding parties and functions only £275 for 4 parties. With an eye on the purse strings there are some hoursoffers including DJ. Holdsof.230 guests amazing to be taken advantage The Trinity Suite is available to hire for 4 hours in a timeslot to suit your requirements for just £275 which includes a DJ for OR the full 4 hours and door security attendance.

However, should you prefer an all day and evening celebration we can offer the -whole with its mainup The River Lounge freehotel hire holds bar and River Lounge included up until the time that the to 50 guests evening celebrations begin in the Trinity Suite.

The cost to hire out the whole establishment including the Main Bar, The River Lounge the Nightclub open every Fridayand 10pm ‘til Courtyard Garden is only £750.00 – this is inclusive of entry All !!! the nightclub2.30pm for 4 hoursfree in the evening.

14 hotel rooms are required to be booked for this option.

The Dorrington has limited parking spaces but car Christmas events - ALL FREE ENTRY parking is not a problem because there is a public Car Saturday Xmas Park located at 16th the rearDecember of the hotel and- is80’s free after 3pm and all day on Sundays. party night Buffets can be arranged from only £3.50 per head Friday 22nd December - Xmas club or employ your own caterers and enjoy FREE USE of night our kitchen.

Th e D orrin gton H alstead - Essex C O 9 1 J D Tel : 0 1 7 8 7 4 7 7 7 5 4 www.thedorrington.com

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enquiries to: thedorrington@gmail.com

Countdown to

2018!

Written by Ruby Reed @rubyslifetsyle

It’s that time of year again…the end! And we all want to end on a high. Well there are definitely some classy locations to help us do that.

Combining sassy dining with glamorous settings and a big atmosphere, you can say good bye to 2017 in style at one of these fantastic venues…

Dunston Hall Ipswich Road, Norwich NR14 8PQ Start your celebrations off in style with afternoon tea before enjoying a festive cocktail in the Terrace Bar. A sumptuous Black Tie seven-course Gala Dinner with half a bottle of wine per person will be served to you in style whilst you are entertained by the band and disco. At midnight the piper will herald in the New Year whilst you enjoy a glass of Champagne and a bacon roll leaving you to dance into the wee hours. Price: £65 per person. www.qhotels.co.uk/our-locations/dunston-hall Sea Spice on Aldeburgh’s seafront 18 Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh IP15 5BJ Welcome in 2018 at Sea Spice with an indulgent evening centred around exotic food, delightful drinks, fantastic entertainment and good company.

Celebrations start at 7pm, after dinner take to the dance floor and boogie the night away to some of the greatest hits played by the resident DJ. Places are £90 per adult and £45 for children up to 12 years. The New Year’s Eve feast begins with papadums, while the first course includes a lamb kebab and hydrabadi lamb chops, marinated prawns, fish tikka and a vegetarian dish. Three spicy main course curries follow plus various vegetables and breads; for afters there’s carrot pudding with vanilla ice cream. seaspice.co.uk

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Call Fencabs of Ely 01353 669966 Email: fencabs@gmail.com Visit our website www.fencabs.co Need a taxi but don’t have cash? Download our App! Order a Taxi Track the Vehicle Pay Online All in one simple app!

Tuddenham Mill, Newmarket High St, Tuddenham, Newmarket IP28 6SQ Join the party at the Mill this New Year’s Eve and celebrate in style. Perfect for foodies or those looking to indulge at one of the best restaurants in Suffolk, the celebration is priced at £109 per person, and includes New Year’s Eve menu, a glass of Prosecco plus live music and dancing - count us in! www.tuddenhammill.co.uk Quy Mill Hotel Church Rd, Stow cum Quy, Cambridge CB25 9AF Make the most of the New Year Celebrations and book a city break! Make the Quy Mill Hotel and Spa in Cambridge your base for a two-night getaway. Enjoy one of the stylish bedrooms and a Full English Breakfast both mornings. Join them for the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and live entertainment. The second night will see you dine with a three-course dinner in the 2-rosette restaurant. Price: £250 per person. For further information visit www.cambridgequymill.co.uk The Cambridge Belfry, Cambourne Cambourne, Cambridge CB23 6BW Dress to impress for this Gala Dinner! Enjoy a glass of fizz on arrival and sample some exquisite canapes. Sit down to an enticing four-course meal with a 1/2 bottle of wine per guest and then dance the night away to the live band and disco. New Year’s Eve is for everybody, so they have arranged a great party for all the family. Enjoy a delicious three-course buffet and dance the New Year in with style with the whole family. www.qhotels.co.uk/Cambridge/CambridgeBelfry Christmas Eve Dinner & Dance at Sopwell House, St Albans Sopwell House, Cottonmill Lane, St Albans, AL1 2HQ Sopwell House’s Christmas Eve Dinner & Dance will ensure there is not a scrooge in sight. Located in the St Alban Suite, guests will be welcomed by a sparkling reception and canapés, whilst listening to carol singers. A spectacular dinner will follow

so that diners can indulge in plates piled high with seasonal delights. With the help of a DJ playing everyone’s favourite Christmas classics, guests can dance through to Christmas Day. Priced at £69 per person. www.sopwellhouse.co.uk Redcoats Farmhouse Stevenage Rd, Little Wymondley, Hitchin SG4 7JR The Farmhouse at Redcoats, situated in the hamlet of Redcoats Green, dates back to the 15th century and boasts four acres with stunning views across the rolling countryside. Choose from two overnight packages, each including prosecco, New Year’s Eve dinner and New Year’s Day breakfast. Prices from £520. farmhouseatredcoats.co.uk Black Tie Ball at Down Hall Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Essex, CM22 7AS If you want to feel like a lord and lady for the evening, then head to Down Hall in the Essex countryside for a night of sophisticated glamour.

The country house will be throwing the ultimate NYE experience starting with a Champagne and canapé reception followed by a four-course dinner in the Prior and Harley Suites. It’s then onto the dance floor with music from a live singer and resident DJ or if you’re feeling lucky try your hand at a game of Roulette or Black Jack at the casino tables.

Champagne will be served at midnight to welcome the New Year. There’s also the opportunity to stay in one of Down Hall’s beautiful rooms.

Prices from £125 downhall.co.uk The Sculpture Gallery, Woburn Milton Keynes, Woburn MK17 9WA Set in stunning landscaped grounds, The Sculpture Gallery is perfect for an elegant evening of fine dining with your loved one, friends or family. This New Year’s Eve, the grand venue is hosting a black tie event with a Champagne and canapé reception, four-course dinner and music from five-piece band Blue Rinse to see in 2018 with style. Price: £120 per person. www.sculpturegallerywoburn.co.uk

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IT’S TIME TO

Braintree Freeport

ONE STOP SHOP! Written by Jasmin Rusted jasminrusted.wordpress.com

Love it or hate it Christmas has arrived, bringing with it a long list of friends and family to shop for.

But if you are the type who likes to get something a little bit different for your loved ones then maybe it’s time to stay away from those big shopping malls and try something new and independent, where you can pick up something a little bit more quirky.

Historic finds If you’re the shopper who likes to support local retailers, then the Stable Yard in Hertfordshire is definitely for you. Self-described as an “eclectic” mix of independent businesses you are sure to find something a little bit different for your loved ones this Christmas. Take a different approach this year and fill the children’s stockings with Tudor style gifts from the traditional Toy Shop, or some stunning jewellery at ‘Fiona Rae Goldsmith and Enameller’ for a loved one.

With the Stable Yard Coffee shop offering a wide variety of beverages to keep you warm as you shop, the cosy feel of Stable Yard provides an alternative shopping experience to get you into the Christmas spirit and pick up those last minute gifts for the family.

32

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City treasures Looking for a wider range of little independent shops to look around? Then it is definitely worth heading to the Norwich Lanes. Draped in Christmas lights, the lanes offer the ultimate Christmas shopping experience, with atmospheric lighting, cafes galore and a wide variety of shops that are unique to Norwich.

Pick up a beautifully crafted gift from Lisa Angel, a small boutique on Lower Goat Lane, selling a variety of gifts from delicate jewellery to little touches for the home – whether it’s stocking fillers or a larger gift, Lisa Angel has a wide selection to choose from.

Wander through the light filled streets down to The Book Hive and find yourself surrounded by titles fit for any reader, something that can easily be gifted to anyone in the family. These are just a couple of examples out of the many different stores found on the less mainstream side of the city, and just a walk through these streets will give anyone a boost of inspiration for their Christmas shopping.

Save the pennies Out of the 12 months of the year, December is the month that is going to drain the pennies from your purse. For a more traditional shopping centre feel,

take a look around the extensive sales that can be found at Freeport Braintree in Essex. With 85 shops and amazing deals, save some money this Christmas and get your shop done smoothly.

Alternatively, Clacton Factory Outlet, also in Essex, advertises 60 percent off of high street stores with a wide variety of shops making gift shopping a breeze. Both Freeport and Clacton Factory Outlet, offer some bargain buys for the season.

Shopping in Suffolk Snape Maltings, near the beautiful coastal town of Aldeburgh, offers an extensive range of music, art galleries and restaurants and also contains their own shopping sector with a few unique finds that your loved ones are bound to enjoy opening come the 25th.

With craft shops, interior design finds, boutiques, antiques and more, a shopping trip here is a one of a kind experience. It will open your eyes to some new favourite shops and offer gifting inspiration from the beautiful art and rustic architecture surroundings.

Christmas in the countryside Burwash Manor surrounded by the Cambridgeshire countryside, offers Christmas shoppers a completely different experience than your typical shopping centre. Tucked in cottages on the estate, the shops, cosy in appearance, offer items that are only to be found at the Manor.

With their own Christmas shop, experience a little dip into cultures around the world and pick up some decorations for your home to bring a unique touch of Burwash to your tree.

So don’t get bogged down in the stress of Christmas shopping this year, and enjoy the experience with some new, quirky and very original shops across East Anglia - bound to get you in the Christmas spirit and help check off the ever growing list of gifts this season.

Eastlife Magazine - Nov 17.pdf 1 11/10/2017 4:20:36 PM

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Christmas gifts for her ‘Tis the season of pretty things! From dazzling diamonds to festive fashion, put a smile on any woman’s face with these gorgeous gifts….

Who doesn’t love new shoes? Step into Christmas in style…

Price: £59 Stockist: www.missselfridge.com

Sparkly stocking fillers are the best kind.

Price: £5.99 Stockist: www.newlook.com

Ignite your senses with L’Occitane’s refreshing Verbena collection. Price: £30 Stockist: Bakers & Larners of Holt, 8 Market Place, NR25 6BW www.bakersandlarners.co.uk

A girl can never have too many bags Price: £16.99 Stockist: TK Maxx

Travel in style with Matalan’s luggage set; ideal for those who just can’t keep their feet on the ground!

Price: £8 Stockist: www.matalan.co.uk

La Prairie White Caviar Illuminating Pearl Infusion is a skin miracle in a bottle. Trust us, it’s worth every penny!

Price: £366 Stockist: www.houseoffraser.co.uk

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2017 11 East Life Gift Vouchers QP.qxp_107mm h x 71mm w 13/11/2017 15:56 Page 1

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At Alford Brothers we have been established for over 50 years, covering Felixstowe and the Surrounding areas.

We sell new and used cycles , motorbikes and scooters as well as offering servicing and repairs.

Our monetary gift vouchers can be redeemed against an overnight stay, a round of golf, pamper time in our spa, or food and drink from The Park Bar. Offer them the freedom to enjoy Ufford Park the way they want. t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road|Woodbridge|Suffolk|IP12 1QW

Reserve your bike now ready for Christmas for only ÂŁ10 and receive a FREE set of Lights with this voucher

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There’s nothing quite like a new coat at Christmas Price: £149 Stockist: uk.monsoon.co.uk

Warm up this winter with the Viktor and Rolf Flowerbomb Candle.

Price: £40 Stockist: Debenhams

Unwrap a little piece of Italy with Carluccio’s festive hampers.

Price: £25 Stockist: Carluccio’s, Chapelfield Plain, Chapelfield, Norwich, NR2 1SZ www.carluccios.com

The classic YSL Touche Eclat has had a festive makeover.

Price: £25 Stockist: John Lewis, Grand Arcade, Cambridge

Full of seasonal recipes and stunning photography, Marte Marie Forsberg’s debut book is the perfect present for foodies.

Price: £25 Stockist: Available at Waterstones, Amazon and all good book retailers

eastlife.co.uk 37

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Tails About Town Written by Emma Kemsley

THE COTSWOLDS Big skies, sandy shores and stunning scenery, East Anglia takes some beating on the beauty front, but this month The Cotswolds came close. Cobbled cottages, trickling streams and miles of farmland, I felt as though I was on the set of the Christmas film ‘The Holiday’.

A few weeks ago, Fletcher, my husband and our friends, along with their dog Juno (yes, the canine horse that makes a regular appearance in this column), had the ultimate winter weekend. Cosy pubs, mulled wine, cheese and plenty of long, lovely walks. And I mean, long!!! I walk Fletcher for at least two to three miles every afternoon, but I have never walked 11 miles in one go, in my wellies and up and down muddy hills. Oh how I longed for the flatness of Cambridgeshire…my little legs just aren’t cut out for rambling.

Fletcher’s on the other hand, well, he didn’t stop for almost five hours. Is it even possible to tire out a Spaniel? Just imagine how quickly you could get the Christmas shopping done with that kind of energy! Even Juno with her long legs had to have a pause now and then.

The walk was wonderful, and Juno (a staffy cross) tried her best to figure out her breed. She tried pheasant chasing with Fletcher. Though it was more of a case of Fletcher finding the birds, sending them flying into the air, while she bounded confused through the corn. While kept on a lead, it was clear both of them wasn’t going to become a sheep dog anytime soon, those balls of fluff were far too scary!

Evenings were filled with good food in our cosy cottage while the dogs snoozed. Correction, while Juno snoozed. Fletcher ran around playing, trying desperately to wake her up with his endless energy. If you’re visiting The Cotswolds, I’d highly recommend dinner at Wild & Thyme; a fabulous, homely restaurant in Chipping Norton and a day trip to Stow-on-the-Wold.

More walks followed, including a stunning sunset stroll. And then it happened. Something so humiliating, I can’t even bring myself to put the words in writing. Let’s just say I think you can now call Fletcher and Juno canine criminals…

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39

Pet Presents C

hristmas really is for the whole family. Make sure no one is left out including furry friends with our pick of presents for dogs and their owners…

Keep the house clean with this stylish bone shaped toy tidy.

Price: £15 www.sainsburys.co.uk

Dogs will love snuggling down on this House of Paws rustic tweed matress bed!

Price: £19.79 www.petspyjamas.com

You’ll be owners and dogs’ favourite person with this cute personalised tin of dog treats Price: £15 | www.notonthehighstreet.com

Christmas Day is the perfect excuse to get dressed up. Let your dog steal the show with this cute bow tie from Accessorize.

Price: £5 | uk.accessorize.com

For dog inspired Christmas decorations head to Matalan.

Decorations priced from £2 Matalan.co.uk

Make sure cheeky dogs never get lost again with this cute ID tag Price: £10.50 | www.daisypark.co.uk It’s fun for the whole family with this doggy treat set Price: £6.95 www.dotcomgiftshop.com

eastlife.co.uk

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With permission of EDP - credit Simon Finley

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eastlife

LITTLE EAST

MUM’s

THE WORD A CHILD FREE CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE This year my husband and I find ourselves in a position that many parents could only dream of: a child free Christmas. Given that we have three children between us the odds on it happening were short but sure enough my son will be with his father & the teenagers will be in a field somewhere with their mum. It was the latter that got me thinking: maybe *we* could go somewhere for Christmas? A little childfree adventure?

I hit the Internet at once; asking friends for advice, looking at hotels we’d been to and loved. I was a one-woman travel agent. I thought I’d hit the jackpot as the hotel we had stayed for my husband’s 40th birthday had a great festive package: mulled wine & afternoon tea on Christmas Eve, traditional Christmas dinner, even a little gift from Santa for each guest. I emailed at once to be greeted with this response: “We have rooms available but I’m afraid Christmas lunch is all booked up”. Well that was no

use. I didn’t want to prepare for the Queen’s Speech with macadamia nuts from the mini bar. That plan was thwarted.

After my initial disappointment I told myself I’d dodged a bullet. It cost way too much money anyway & I didn’t want to pull a cracker with a stranger or risk someone’s gross table manners putting me off my pigs in blankets. No, there would be better options: I turned to my friends for advice.

“Escape Christmas”, “Ignore the fuss & go to a spa!”, and other exotic (and affordable) options were put to me but none of them sat right. I didn’t want to escape Christmas, I adore Christmas. What I wanted to escape was empty nest syndrome. Christmas to me is about family, it’s about squeezing round a table and sharing a feast, it’s about bad cracker jokes, traditions, childhood anecdotes. Then it struck me: if we couldn’t be with our children then perhaps we could just *be* the children, all of the joy of Christmas with less packaging & no batteries required.

So it was decided, a Christmas Day with the folks, everything warm, familiar and touched by love!

Read more from Dolly at www.raggydollywrites. wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus

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EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

VISIT SANTA

Santa trains at the Leighton Buzzard Railway in December

ON HIS SPECIAL TRAIN

FESTIVE

FUN

DECEMBE

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2 3 9 17 21 22 10 16 23 24

2017

Our buses collect you from right outside Epping Underground Station making it super easy for people living close to the Central Line.

OUR CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE IS NOW AVAILABLE 2017

Santa and his fantastic team are coming back to the Epping Ongar Railway for the 2017 Santa Specials! We’ll have the Redbridge Brass Band, Christmas-themed market and of course Santa on his special train. You must ensure that a ride on the Epping Ongar Railway is part of your family Christmas.

Santa’s steam specials - run on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays from December 2nd - 24th For details of exact times and fares see our website. Take a 25-minute steam-train ride, and meet Santa in his grotto, where children up to 12 will receive an early present.

Fares are £17.50/£20 per person (depending on day) and include a free gift for all children delivered at their seat by Santa himself.

Santa After Dark - New for this year. Come and meet Santa after sunset. Children will receive their presents on the train.

This service will operate on December 16th and 23rd only with departures at 16.30, 17.20 and 18.10.

Compartments for 6 or 8 people for the exclusive use of your family are also available.

Mince Pie specials - Santa will be on his holidays, but our popular mince pie specials will run on December 28th and 29th with departures at 11.00, 11.40, 12.20, 13.20 and 14.00.

eorailway.co.uk 01277 365200

Leighton Buzzard Railway, Page’s Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 4TG. More details and to book tickets on our website www.buzzrail.co.uk

Happy Christmas to all readers and advertisers from everyone at

eastlife

10 of the best

SANTA’S GROTTOS Written by Liz Mattock

Give your children something to smile about this Christmas and start your season’s greeting at one of the best Santa’s Grotto’s in town Santa’s Grotto at Blackthorpe Barn, Saturdays and Sundays from 25 November to 17 December, plus 19-22 December Rougham Estate, Bury St Edmunds, IP30 9HZ Visit the stunning nativity scenes at Blackthorpe Barn who are hosting their own Santa’s grotto in their traditional festive barn. Now in its 27th year, the ma jestic wooden doors are being pulled back to reveal another spectacular sight this Christmas.

Aimed at children aged up to nine, the miniature grotto is not to be missed. Get online and book at www.blackthorpebarn.com/christmas/santas-grotto Santa Tours Felixstowe, weekdays at beginning of December from 6-8.30pm Santa and Rudolph are getting out and about this month, as they make a tour of the town’s streets and homes in their sleigh. Arranged by the local branch of Save the Children and the Felixstowe Rotary Club, it aims to give all families, particularly children, a great Christmas experience as well as raise as much money as possible for the chairty and Rotary supported charities. You can also catch Santa at the Felixstowe Christmas market on 2 December for festive fun, carol singing and a children’s candle lit parade. More details at www.felixstowe.gov.uk Santa’s Magical Journey at Thursford, 25 & 26 November, 2, 3, 9, 10 and 16-23 December Thursford Collection, Norfolk, NR21 0AS Join Santa and his little helpers in Thursford this Christmas. Set in the fantasia of the North Pole, big kids and little kids can experience a magical journey past penguins and polar bears to the busy little elves at work in the toy factory making sure no little girls

46

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Visit the el ves at Blackthorpe Barns

or boys are forgotten this Christmas. Finally, you’ll reach Santa’s House where he is busy preparing for Christmas Eve. Watch snowmen and other cheeky characters come to life in world where children see their dreams come true. Visit www.thursford.com/ santas-magical-journey.aspx for details.

Bressingham Grotto, Sat 2 to Sun 24 December Bressingham Steam & Gardens, Low Road, IP22 2AA Santa will be joined this year at Bressingham Grotto by none other than his lady wife, Mrs Claus. This year Santa is giving all well-behaved children (and he’ll know if you have been naughty or nice) a ride on his Polar Express train. They will get to meet him in person and make Christmas wishes come true. If you are looking for a quieter venue for your child to visit Santa this is the perfect place for you. Your child gets one to one time with Santa, no time slots and no rush. To book visit: www.bressingham.co.uk/events/christmas

Santa Specials at Nene Valley Railway, 25 November - 24 December Wansford Station, Stibbington, Peterborough Christmas at Nene Valley Railway is not one to be missed but be quick as places to travel with Santa on his magical train are filling up faster than a fruit filled mince pie! Proud to have been making Christmas special for children for over 40 years, organisers have had to expand this year to meet demand and add an extra carriage. Mr Claus is dropping by on his special festive train, while the elves make sure his sleigh is in top condition for Christmas Eve. The experience begins in Santa’s grotto, followed by a trip on the magnificent train. There are three packages available to book online to suit all budgets. To book visit www.nvr.org.uk to book online.

Frost Garden Centre, 2-24 December Buckden Road, Brampton, Huntingdon PE28 4NF Point your sleigh in the direction of Brampton and visit the aptly named Frosts Garden Centre for an experience like no other. Kids get to sing with Santa’s elves, meet Santa himself and make reindeer food ready to leave out for Rudolph and his friends on Christmas night. We have it on good authority, Santa keeps them on a very strict diet. Before you leave you will be asked to join Santa in his living room while he reads an enchanted story and wishes all a Merry Christmas.

Capture your magical family memories by having your photo taken and purchasing it on the day. To book visit frostsgroup.digitickets.co.uk/branches.

Breakfast with Santa at Colchester Zoo, 26 November – 22 December Maldon Road, Stanway, Colchester CO3 0SL Get your Christmas rocking with Rudolph at Colchester Zoo. Children meet Mr and Mrs Claus and watch the elves tending to the reindeer to make sure they are ready to make the journey to every little girl and boy on the eve of Christmas. Can you spot Rudolph?

Take breakfast with Santa and see what he likes to eat before he takes to skies to deliver all those presents - rumour has it he has a very sweet tooth.

Special packages must be booked in advance. Visit www.colchester-zoo.com/experiences/christmas-experiences Father Christmas and Festive Fun at Hatfield Forest, Wednesdays and Thursdays through December Takeley, CM22 6NE The whole family can jingle all the way down to Hatfield Forest, just outside Bishop’s Stortford on selected dates throughout December. Not only will little ones get to meet Santa in person but they can

also take part in craft workshops making some very special tree decorations. Hidden in the forest, roars a magical campfire where families are invited to join in, singing carols and sipping hot chocolate under the stars. Tickets can be booked at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatfield-forest Santa Spectacular at Willows Activity Farm, 22 November – 24 December Coursers Road, St Albans AL4 0PF Take a sleigh ride down to Willows Activity Farm and spend some time at Santa Spectacular. Children meet Santa and receive a golden key which unlocks a special present just for them. Visit the elf academy where youngsters can learn just what it takes to be an elf, starting with the elf-a-bet. Glide around the ice rink, meet a real reindeer and find out all about the North Pole in Santa’s 3D film. For tickets visit www.willowsactivityfarm.com Christmas Kingdom at Mead Open Farm, 1-24 December Stanbridge Rd, Billington, Stanbridge, Leighton Buzzard LU7 9JH Mead Open Farm is the place to be merry in Billington, Bedfordshire this Christmas. Visit the Christmas village, meet Santa, take a tour around Santa’s workshop, make reindeer food and find out what the very special magical ingredient is. Plus, there is so much more to see and do for kids of all ages and adults too. For more visit www.meadopenfarm.co.uk.

It’s set to be magical, so join in and make Christmas memories to treasure.

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Masquerade

Saturday 24th February 2018 Chelmsford City Racecourse Tickets £50 per person, Black Tie We invite you to join us for a magical evening of: sparkling reception drinks, a sumptuous 3 course meal, table entertainment, live music, casino, diamond raffle, live auction & grand raffle 7pm arrival for 7.30pm, Carriages at 12.30am To book a table contact events@farleighhospice.org or call 01245 457355 Kindly sponsored by

Registered charity no 284670

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Stick Man © 2008 Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Published by Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic Childrens Books

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The Stables | Wavendon | Milton Keynes

Stick Man © 2008 Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Published by Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic Children’s Books.

Monday 18 – Saturday 24 December

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a real alternative to residential care

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During the holiday period it may be that you or a loved one suddenly realises the need for some extra help for day to day living. The coming together over the festive period can highlight the need for care for those around us that we may not see too often throughout the rest of the year.

To make the right decision for anyone needing care, you need information, so you can learn and compare the services which are available.

Able Community Care has been providing Live-in care packages, a true alternative to moving into a care home, since 1980.

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Very spacious, able to accommodate large groups, wheel chair access. Function room available for hire: meetings, parties, receptions etc. Capacity for 60 seated dining or 100 party reception.

Open from 9am till 10pm weekdays, 11pm Friday, 1am with DJ most Saturdays Soul DJ evenings as well as Spanish themed nights with live flamenco guitar and dancing, and a bespoke artists space.

TAKING BOOKINGS FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES, SPECIAL MENU AVAILABLE. Keep updated with our offers and events via facebook

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@olivierskitchen

Phone us direct: 01553 775248 http://soulcafeandrestaurant.co.uk

Christmas Menu Starters

Zuppa di Zucca e Dolcelatte - Cream of butternut squash and dolcelatte cheese soup, served with toasted croutons.

Gamberoni in Tempura - Sicilian king prawns in a light tempura batter accompanied by an aiolì dip.

Bruschetta ai Funghi - Toasted ciabatta bread topped with sautéed mixed mushrooms and soft taleggio cheese.

Scottata d’Anatra - Seared duck breast served with a winter berry dressing.

Main course

Tacchino all’Inglese - Roasted turkey breast with sage and onions stuffing, served with chipolata sausage and gravy.

Agnello alla Mediterraneo - Slow cooked lamb, in a sauce of cumin, tumeric, white wine, and tomato, garnished with wild mushrooms and slow cooked peppers.

Salmone - Roasted fillet of salmon in a prosecco, dill and baby prawns sauce.

Norma al Forno - Paccheri pasta oven baked in a tomato sauce and diced aubergines topped with smoked mozzarella.

Dessert

Pannacotta - Christmas pudding panna cotta with a wild Berries coulis.

Bread & Butter Pudding - Italian style bread and butter pudding made with panettone, served with custard.

Mousse di Cioccolato e Arancia - Orange infused chocolate mousse.

Tiramisù - Traditional homemade tiramisù made with a mascarpone, marsala and zabaglione cream with a dash of rum.

Filter coffee or Tea - £27.95 per person

The Christmas menu will be available upon pre-order only. We will require a deposit of £10 per person upon reservation. The Christmas menu will be available for parties of minimum 6 people. 10% service charge will be added to the final bill.

Are you looking for an unrivalled Italian fine dining experience in Bedfordshire? The Green Man is a family-run restaurant at the heart of Bedfordshire, dedicated to delivering authentic Italian fine dining using the freshest ingredients.

Authentic Italian Cuisine Our seasonal a la carte menu includes a wide range of Italian delights, combining classic rustic tastes with contemporary cooking methods and presentation techniques to bring you an exquisite dining experience.

You can also perfectly complement your meal with one of our specially-selected wines from some of the finest vineyard regions in Italy.

01525 860 352 thegreenmanclophill@ yahoo.co.uk The Green Man, The Green, Clophill, Bedford, MK45 4AD

FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINKNews ‘SLATE’, THE NEW NAME FOR LAWSON’S DELICATESSEN, OPENS IN SOUTHWOLD Who doesn’t love cheese at Christmas? Opening just in time for the festive season is ‘Slate’, the new name for Lawson’s Delicatessen, which has opened its second shop in Southwold.

‘Slate’ is now open in Southwold

Lawson’s Delicatessen has been a much-loved institution on Aldeburgh High Street for years and came under the ownership of Clare Jackson and her father, John Ormerod, in January 2017. The new Southwold shop, close to Adnam’s Cellar and Kitchen, opened at the end of last month and The Aldeburgh shop also reopened after a short closure for full refurbishment. Sure to be a hit with any foodie is both shops’ magnificent ‘wall of cheese’.

Both shops will also offer a range of soups, salads, sausage rolls and frozen meals prepared by its chefs, alongside other delicious delicatessen products. www.slatecheese.co.uk

Find gifts for foodies at Castang’s Kitchen

Warren’s Bakery

CORNISH BAKERY, WARRENS, OPENS IN SOUTHEND-ON-SEA, ESSEX Swapping the Cornish coast for Essex shores, Warren Bakery, Cornwall’s oldest bakery, opened its latest franchise in Southend-on-Sea at the end of last month. To celebrate the opening, the first 20 people to post a photo with their pasty on Southend Pier with #pastyonthepier will win a free lunch! warrensbakery.co.uk

FIND THE PERFECT FESTIVE GIFT FOR FOODIES IN BURY ST EDMUNDS The latest addition to Bury’s independent retail scene is Castang’s Kitchen, which opened at the end of October. Located on St John’s Street and owned by husband and wife team Jacob and Megan Castang, the store features artisan tableware and handmade kitchen products from around the world and local to Suffolk, suitable for home entertaining, serious foodies and professionals. www.castangskitchen.com FANCY A CARIBBEAN CHRISTMAS? Forget the turkey, Turtle Bay is putting a Caribbean twist on Christmas with its first ever festive menu.

Known for its relaxed dining and soul food, the new set menu features festive platters from £9 per head, a three-course Caribbean inspired Christmas lunch and a four course all-day Christmas menu. Visit www.turtlebay.co.uk for your nearest restaurant.

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Visit The Dyke’s End at Reach HRH The Prince of Wales did – and described it as “a splendid pub”

The Dyke’s End at Reach offer their guests an exceptional dining experience.

Our menus change as different produce and game come into season but they always include favourites, such as local sausage and mash, outstanding fish and chips and Parisian steak-fries and we will gladly cater for vegetarians and those with food intolerances.

Our Lunch and Dinner Menus are very popular and our customers tell us they love the food. However, every day we have an extensive ‘Special Menu’ which changes regularly. If there is something special you’d like our chefs to prepare, just give us a call and we’ll do our best to make it happen (give reasonable notice).

Our Sunday Lunches are very popular too so you are advised to reserve a table.

Our upstairs dining room complements the main bar areas and, after a complete refurbishment has an ‘olde country pub’ feel about it offering the atmosphere of an Edwardian grandeur with a contemporary feel. Importantly, it not only offers a beautiful alternative to eating downstairs, but also doubles as a private dining room for parties of up to 20 guests.

Service charge is discretionary.

Christmas Menu Starters Winter root vegetable, pearl barley broth with homemade bread and horseradish cream.

Coarse pork paté with smoked bacon, apple cider chutney, pork scratchings and granary toast Beetroot, orange and dill cured salmon with cucumber crème fraîche, grilled lemon and crispbreads

Main Courses Traditional roasted breast of turkey with pigs in blankets, cranberry sauce, duck fat roast potatoes, bread sauce and turkey gravy served with a selection of seasonal vegetables Roast supreme of pheasant with chestnuts, cabbage, bacon, fondant potato and a redcurrant, honey and thyme jus Pan fried cod fillet with sauté potatoes, curly kale, curried mussel stew and crispy capers Winter vegetable crumble with cheddar cheese, beer, mustard sauce, baby gem salad and a garlic peppercorn dressing Puddings Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy butter and brandy sauce Mulled wine spiced poached pears with chantilly cream and shortbread biscuits Chocolate and chestnut torte on a biscuit base with passionfruit sorbet and honeycomb A selection of cheeses with biscuits, celery, grapes and chutney This menu is available from Dec 1st on weekdays only The cost per person is £29.50 and there will be a non-refundable deposit of £10 per person upon booking.

The Dyke’s End

8 Fair Green, Reach, Cambridge Tel: 01638 743816 e: info@dykesend.co.uk www.dykesend.co.uk

THE

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

A QUIET CHRISTMAS AT HOME This year will be a very different Christmas. A quiet one. The children are growing up and will spend time elsewhere and some live abroad. Not months of planning ahead, but thinking on a smaller scale for a change.

Unlike the English and the Americans, the Dutch don’t have a traditional meal for Christmas. Anything is possible from simple pancakes to fondue or a tasting menu. A quiet Christmas doesn’t mean not pushing the boundaries to create delicious food. I am a foodie so any excuse to dive into the kitchen and my huge selection of ever-growing cookery books! On my travels, I do pick up new ideas too. My latest project is to recreate the fluffy Truffle Gnocchi I had at Hotel Imperial in Prague in October.

Pre-Christmas festivities start with a Wine and Que Rico Tapas evening at the Cambridge Wine Merchants on 20 December. The Christmas tree from Radmore Farm Shop is all dressed up by then. Only three days to go to prep the food and dress up the house with stunning flowers from the Cambridge market and new Christmas decorations from one of the local art galleries.

What does my food heaven look like this year? On Christmas eve we’ll kick off with homemade Truffle Gnocchi, followed by Venison casserole and to finish a refreshing sorbet. The next day a light brunch of Panettone, Smoked Salmon and duck egg so there is enough room for what’s to come.

Apple and Almond Sponge at Dulcedo Cambridge

Christmas Day lunchtime is for presents, sparkling wine and lots of homemade nibbles. This year our festive dinner will be Goose for mains, chocolate heaven for dessert and the Oyster and cucumber dish as seen on Masterchef Australia 2017 for starters. After all that hard work, it’s time to curl up on the sofa with a glass of dessert wine and cheese.

Have a great time over Christmas, enjoy the food and company!

STOCKISTS Radmore Farm shop for local food and Christmas trees (online store - www.radmorefarmshop.co.uk) Cambridge Deli’s - Culinaris, Cambridge Cheese Company, Limoncello Beyond - Gog Magog, Country Kitchen, Burwash Manor Favourite Game supplier - Radmore Farm Shop Chocolate and Desserts - Dulcedo Cambridge Decoration - Cambridge Art Galleries Local produce and flowers - Cambridge Market Wine - Thirsty, Bacchanalia, Cambridge Wine Merchant

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Spend Christmas With Us This Year www.thewhitehartampthill.co.uk |

01525 305200

We’ve been making some exciting changes to The White Hart just in time for for the festive season. So why not let us take the reins this year and deliver Christmas to you all wrapped up.

@CraftingCurries

A FESTIVE

FEAST David Ellams, chef at The Tamburlaine, one of Cambridge’s most stylish hotels, takes a break from the kitchen and tells us how he prepares for Christmas: What’s your top tip for cooking Christmas dinner?

At Christmas people fall into the trap of cooking what they think they should cook and not what they want to cook. Cook what you love, it’s Christmas! If you don’t like sprouts or turkey, replace them with your family’s favourite. Don’t be swayed by the newest fad.

Christmas Day isn’t the time to experiment. Make sure your dishes and recipes are fool proof. One of the most important elements of any roast dinner meal is the roast potatoes. My top tip for this is to use Marish piper potatoes. Steam them for 15 to 20 minutes before you roast them. Fluff them up and roast in hot duck fat or a good quality rapeseed.

What’s your favourite festive dessert?

It’s worth making your own Christmas pudding in early October and feeding it up until you want to use it. You will taste the difference and can adjust the recipe to your personal tastes. Recently I have made my Christmas puddings at home alcohol free, so my little girl can enjoy it with us. I use a cherry syrup to feed instead of brandy.

How will you be spending Christmas?

I will be at home with my family. It will be the most enjoyable meal I cook all year.

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“

Cook what you love, it’s Christmas!

“

It takes weeks of planning, a lot of money and far too much stress, but when you sit down to tuck into the turkey surrounded by the smiles from family and friends, it makes everything worth it. If you’ve taken on the task of Christmas dinner and want to create a festive feast to remember we’ve asked some of the region’s best head chefs to share their seasonal secrets…

- David Ellams, The Tambulaine

Following the success of Andi Walker’s pop-up restaurant upstairs at the Riverside Inn in Chelmsford, the chef is now set to take over the entirety of the restaurant from January 2018, with a brand-new, bistro-inspired approach.

Here, he shares his Christmas tips: What’s your top tip for cooking Christmas dinner?

My top tip for cooking Christmas dinner has to be to get as much of the prep done the day before as you can. There’s nothing worse than running about and being stressed on the big day, you want to be able to enjoy it just as much as everyone else.

What’s your favourite festive food?

My favorite festive food has to be a glazed ham without a doubt, I could eat it every day of the week. You also have the bonus of the leftovers the day after. Even talking about this now has my mouth watering at the thought of it!

It’s great to buy local produce, especially at Christmas. Who is your preferred regional supplier?

My favorite local supplier at Christmas is Great Garnetts of Dunmow, Essex, they do the best bacon and hams you’ll ever try. Plus, every year they raise turkeys for the festive period and you can really taste the love they put into raising their stock. It helps that Julie and Jonathan are just the most amazing people too!

Ahead of a busy December as the head chef at The Varsity Hotel & Spa, Cambridge, Angus Martin, tells us about his favourite festive food: What’s your top tip for cooking Christmas dinner?

I like to plan nice and early, with a lot of thought going into planning the big day! It is important to prepare as much as you can the day before, for example, I like to make the braised red cabbage and stuffing the day or two before as this will help improve its flavour over time.

What’s your favourite festive food?

Mince pies - I enjoy making them and eating them all year round!

What’s your favourite Christmas dessert?

Christmas pudding with proper brandy sauce - I used to sneakily have it when I was a child!

It’s great to buy local produce, who is your go-to supplier?

Burtons Butcher’s from Saffron Walden! We buy all our steaks and meat from them each week. As an independent business, we always like to support local suppliers when we can.

What is your favourite farm shop in East Anglia?

Rattlesdon Farm in Bury St. Edmunds!

How will you be spending Christmas?

Cooking for over 100 guests that will be enjoying a Christmas lunch overlooking the spires of Cambridge from our SIX Panoramic Bar and Restaurant.

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Café Rouge Cambridge, 24-26 Bridge St, Cambridge, South East, CB2 1UJ

Café Rouge Norwich, Intu Chapelfield, Merchant’s Hall, Norwich, NR2 1SQ

Café Rouge St Edmunds, 59 Abbeygate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1LB

Tel 012 2 3 364961

Tel 01603 7 764 32

Tel 01284 76447 7

*excludes Christmas Day

Put some cheer in your

CHEESE

R e a d o u r g u i d e o n h ow t o pi c k t h e p er f e c t c h e e s e a nd wi n e f or C h r i s t m a s

monger this month, we’ll be taking Richard’s advice on board. “Ask questions, and listen to the answers of your cheese monger and wine merchant,” is his first rule of thumb.

There’s always the tendency to go overboard at Christmas, but Richard suggests keeping cheese buying to a minimum: “Less is often considerably more. Always go for quality over quantity when it comes to what should always be viewed as simple pleasures. Try before you buy. All cheese mongers and many wine retailers will have product to taste.”

For interest and structure, he suggests choosing a seasonal cheese, and if available local cheese and local wine will work well together – thankfully our fair region is not short of either supplier!

Let’s face it, it wouldn’t be Christmas without eating your body weight in cheese. It’s almost a right of passage during December to overindulge in creamy and gooey brie, dunk bread into camembert, spread more than a necessary amount of blue cheese over a fancy cracker and let’s not forget the cheddar and chutney!

Finally, if come Christmas Day you tuck in and find a cheese isn’t quite what you expected, just remember Richard’s wise words: “Enjoy the wrong ‘uns. The man who makes no mistakes learns nothing!”

It’s the time of year that has us hovering around the cheese counter for longer than anticipated while trying to choose the perfect selection for the big day – then there’s the wine to consider! To help make the decision a little easier, we’ve picked the brains of Café Rouge’s resident wine expert Richard Pryor.

With over 20 year’s experience in the wine industry, he knows his stuff. “Wine and cheese are two of life’s greatest pleasures, like a hand-made suit, but they are simple ones,” he says. We couldn’t agree more, so while we’re at our favourite farm shop or cheese

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www.all-hallows.org.uk | 01986 892728

Convalescence

Supported by regular visits from a local doctor our caring and dedicated professional team made up of Nurses, Nursing Assistants, Physiotherapists and Therapy Assistants provide high quality care.

Activity Programmes, Therapy Rooms & Gym

En-suite Accommodation & Freshly Prepared Food

Providing peace of mind in a friendly and supportive environment.

“Recovery is such a small word for such a huge subject.

Without you it just wouldn’t have been possible for me!

I'm eternally grateful”.

Rooms are tastefully furnished and fully wheelchair accessible, have wonderful views across the large garden and fitted with an emergency call system, TV and radio, telephone and have free Wi-Fi. There is also a chapel and sensory room on site too.

All Hallows Hospital Ditchingham NR35 2QL

Community Hospital | Daycare | Homecare | Neurological Services| Nursing Home | Therapy Services

modernapothecarystore.com 3 Market Row, Saffron Walden CB10 1HA

The festive season is upon us, which means it’s time to prep and preen for the big Christmas party. To ensure your beauty look is as dazzling as your dress, we’ve rounded up some of the best salons in the region for a pamper.

Festive facials at Waterlilies, Cambridge The cold weather can play havoc with our complexion, so start your Christmas party look by giving your skin a little TLC. Avoid the traffic of Cambridge and head out of the city to start your beauty makeover stress free at Waterlilies, in Stapleford. To celebrate its recent refurbishment and new website, the salon is offering a ‘Love Your Beauty’ experience, which includes a skin consultation followed by an Elemis facial, express manicure and complimentary Prosecco or coffee for the bargain price of £30!

Owner Helen Jones is an experienced and knowledgeable skincare specialist, and will choose the right for facial for your needs. Using Elemis products, we left with our skin rehydrated and glowing ready for the party season!

Waterlilies, 2d Dolphin Way, Off London Road, Stapleford, Cambridge, CB22 5DW Tel: 01223 844700 | www.waterlilies.org.uk Instagram: @waterliliesbeauty

HEALTH

Beauty Prep Party

Beautiful Brows at Sweat Room, Saffron Walden Eyebrows are big business! Gone are the days when a simple wax or pluck will do, it’s time for your eyebrows to be noticed. Specialising in HD brows (plus skincare and eyelashes), the team at the Sweat Room in Saffron Walden, Essex, will create the perfect shape for your face. The stylish salon features a Champagne bar so you can get the party started early and also sells Onzie sportswear, and jewellery and accessories from independent brands ideal for last minute Christmas gifts! 23 High Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1A Tel: 01799 510732 | www.facebook.com/sweatroombeauty Instagram: @sweatroom_beauty Blow out at Boho Blow Dry Bar, Cambridge The Christmas party is a chance to go all out, and once beauty needs are taken care of, it’s time for hair and make up. There’s nothing better than big bouncy hair to make a party look complete, and it’s now easier than ever with the arrival of Cambridge’s first blow dry bar; Boho, located on King’s Street. There’s no cuts or colouring, the salon focuses purely on styling. Stop by for a wash and blow dry, braiding, up-do or full make up. 27 Kings Street, Cambridge, CB1 1LH Tel: 01233 464614 | www.bohoblowdry.com Instagram: @bohoblowdrybar

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07973 230293

Are you interested in taking part in a clinical trial?

Are you healthy and aged between 18-65 years?

Are you a non-smoker?

Are you available for a 17 night residential stay in our clinical unit in Cambridge (plus two short visits)?

We are currently recruiting for a Clinical Trial with dates running from December 2017 to April 2018. If this could be you and you are interested in taking part in a clinical trial, please call 0800 32 84195.

In return for participating in the study you will be compensated for your time and inconvenience, along with any reasonable travel expenses.

Clinical.trials@gsk.com www.volunteers.gsk.co.uk 01223 296001

GSK, Clinical Unit Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Centre for Clinical Investigation Box 128, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0GG 24JUL2017V1

Best foot FORWARD Our feet go through a lot, especially at this time of year…running, dancing, squeezing into pretty high heels – yes, we’ve all done it ladies. We can often neglect our poor soles. If your feet are in need of some attention, The Foot Care Centre at King’s Lynn have explained how to overcome some unwelcomed problems.

resin, the reconstructed nail may lift and therefore need to be reapplied however the nail is able to grow naturally healthier and stronger under the protection of the resin. Keryflex may be applied in adjunct with pharmaceutical agents to treat fungal infections as well as protect damaged nails as they regrow.

For a variety of reasons, some people are much more likely to develop toenail fungus and other conditions that cause the nail to lose its natural appearance. While medication is available to treat the underlying issue, it may be some time to be effective and before the nail looks like its better self again, if it does at all. Keryflex is a cosmetic reconstruction system that can give your nail a natural and healthy look.

Keryflex resin is a single phase synthetic gel which can be applied to suit any toe on any foot. It has strong adhesive properties which ensure good results on thick or thin nails. Keryflex allows for a gentle and durable way to seal the nail’s surface, smooth out ridges and deformations, cover discolouration and lengthen toe nails. Keryflex can be used to treat the cosmetic problems caused by mycotic infections, ligneous nails, psoriatic nails, and other nail dystrophies.

Keryflex uses polymer resins and special activators to create a durable, yet still flexible artificial nail when it is exposed to a specific frequency of ultraviolet light.

This nail restoration system is an effective way to treat a damaged or diseased nail with an aesthetically pleasing finish. As the nail grows under the

To summarise, Keryflex is an agent made of hydrophilic monomers that binds to the natural collagen of the nail and can be applied effectively to even extremely problematic nails. It has high tolerance to impact and is very durable, and comes in several shades of colours for the customers preference and choice. www.thefootcarecentrekingslynn.co.uk

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www.belleloveclothing.co.uk

Stylish

FASHION

Staying

on the Run!

Written by Ruth Essex

December is a frenetic month for many of us, and there is usually very little ‘me time’ left to look and feel fabulous. So this month I am sharing four top tips for adding immediate style to your outfit.

1. Wear lipstick. As simple as that. It makes you look like you have made an effort, even if that effort is quite minimal. Therefore for a quick fix, a dash of lipstick makes such a difference, especially if you go for a bit of colour such as pink, coral, orange or red. I would urge you to add mascara too, to frame your eyes, as that will only take another couple of minutes.

2. Get a great handbag. Again, a colour will have the most impact, however if you are more of a neutral person, then go for a good quality leather bag. It needn’t cost a fortune either as you could buy second hand from eBay, or ask your nearest and dearest to treat you to something special for Christmas? A good quality bag should last you for years, so try to choose one that won’t go out of date too soon.

Topshop’s Christmas beauty colletcion is perfect for a quick fix. Lip Bullet Trio, £12.50

Image: Next

3. Add a third piece to your outfit. Extra style points if you can add a fourth or fifth piece, which would usually be an accessory or two. An outfit of a top and trousers can be rather unexciting, but if you were to add a jacket or a coloured cardigan the style barometer moves up. A scarf and a hat are great extra pieces in winter time too.

4. Include an unexpected element to your outfit.

This could be an unusual colour combination such as burgundy and orange, which sounds like it shouldn’t work, but in practice, looks rather striking.

This is where you can show your creative side and dare to be different.

In the meantime, have a Super Stylish Christmas and a Fabulous New Year and I shall be back in 2018 with more articles on how to be stylish the whole year through!

Ruth Essex is an image consultant based in Great Dunmow, Essex. ruthcrofts@btinternet.com | Tel: 07900 910 666

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

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

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

Winter Wedding Styles

NOW IN STOCK!

Mother of the Bride, Special Occasion Wear, Evening Wear, Fuller Figures, Prom Dresses.

01480 461187

www.cream-rose.co.uk 7 HIGH STREET, FENSTANTON, CAMBS PE28 9LQ

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

Party time!

T

here’s always the dilemma of what to wear, but add the word ‘Christmas’ into the mix, and well, it quite frankly becomes a whole lot worse. It’s the time of year where parties are aplenty, and a day at work can quite often be followed by an invite to a night on the town – it’s Christmas after all! If your December wardrobe is in need of an update, make sure you add these items to your shopping basket to take you from day to night in a flash…

All that glitters Designers sent a dazzling array of crystals, sparkles and sequins down the catwalk, reviving dressing up in time for the party season.

Jacket £99 by Biba, Top £45, Skirt £39, both Label Lab at House of Fraser

Dress £39.99, clutch £19.99, available from New Look

Suits you Tailoring has been the hit of the season, but for a luxe festive look and understated opulence choose a touch of velvet.

available at Dorothy Perkins

Jacket £99 at Monsoon

Quick fix Not brave enough for a full look? Add these simple accessories and you’ll be good to go! £45, Marks & Spencer

£29.99 New Look

£12, Accessorize

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Weddings

Details & Decor Written by Katrina Otter

www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk

HOW TO CREATE A ROMANTIC CHRISTMAS THEMED WEDDING Christmas really is a special time of year and for lots of couples, it’s also the perfect time for a wedding. I absolutely adore festive weddings – love is always in the air and everyone is certainly in the mood for a fabulous party. But, when you’re planning your Christmas themed wedding, what do you do about details and décor? How festive is too festive and how can you include seasonal touches without your big day becoming more of a Christmas party than a Christmas wedding? Don’t worry, I’ve got all the answers for you right here.

The first and most important thing to keep in mind is that a Christmas wedding doesn’t have to be all out festive. In fact, all you really need are a few well-chosen and tasteful seasonal touches. I know it can be tempting to try to find ways to just keep adding additional details but sometimes, less is more.

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I’m also a big fan of taking traditional Christmas or winter ideas and giving them a little twist. This is definitely the best way to put your own stamp on your wedding and to keep things seasonal without letting them become too over-powering. You want your day to feel like a wedding, not Christmas Day mark 2!

So, with that in mind, here are some of my favourite ideas for décor and details: • Start setting the scene for your big day early. Stationery with a festive touch will let guests know what to expect. Think berry motifs or touches of gold.

• On cold days, warming drinks are an absolute must. Mulled wine and winter Pimms are always popular or how about adding a stylish hot cocoa bar?

• Add a pop of festivity to the look of your day by incorporating extra winter tones and textures to floral centerpieces.

Pinecones, velvet and silver leaves all look amazing.

• Wreaths aren’t just for your front door, they’re brilliant for weddings too! These classic Christmas decorations are also a symbol of everlasting love and you’ll find lots of great examples of wedding wreaths online.

• Let’s be honest, we all dream of a white Christmas so creating this feel on your wedding day will certainly impress your guests. Candles, soft lighting and white flowers will give the illusion of a snowy winters night and will create a really magical atmosphere.

• Whether you’ve chosen a religious ceremony or not, there’s something so joyous about singing Christmas carols with friends and family. Get everyone together around a roaring log fire or pretty Christmas tree and create your own seasonal entertainment.

• Why not give guests bells to ring instead of traditional confetti? This is particularly great if your venue doesn’t allow confetti.

Alternatively, bells are a brilliant way for your guests to welcome you into dinner!

• Festive favours are an absolute must and whatever you choose, make sure they’re wrapped prettily to really give guests that wonderful Christmas present feeling. Set all your favours under a tree for added seasonal joy.

• Finally, embrace the season and get outside if you can. Wrap up warm with a snuggly bridal bolero, shrug or stole and pose for your couple photos outside. For your guests, light a fire, provide baskets of blankets for them to use and serve warming canapés – mini comfort food favourites are always a top choice and who could turn down a hot mince pie with clotted cream?

As you can see, Christmas really is a most wonderful time of the year for a wedding.

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Sale

Dress Code Nine Prom, Ladies formal wear, Ball gowns and Party dresses all available to hire or purchase

NOW ON

Our Prom Promise: We will not hire or sell the same dress (colour or style) to someone else at the same school.

Book an appointment with us now!

We are appointment only so call or message us now to secure your perfect dress T 01376 587949 dress code nine dresscodenine

carla@dresscodenine.co.uk Unit 21 Allshots Enterprises, 52 High Street, Earls Colne, Woodhouse Lane, Kelvedon, Essex, Essex, CO6 2PB Colchester, CO5 9DFwww.boulevardbridal.co.uk

www.dresscodenine.co.uk01787 222235

Dress Code Nine Prom, Ladies formal wear, Ball gowns and Party dresses all available to hire or purchase

Our Prom Promise: We will not hire or sell the same dress (colour or style) to someone else at the same school.

We are appointment only so call or message us now to secure your perfect dress T 01376 587949 dress code nine dresscodenine

carla@dresscodenine.co.uk Unit 21 Allshots Enterprises, Woodhouse Lane, Kelvedon, Essex, CO5 9DF

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ENERGY MYTHS

CONSUMER

Martin Lewis Talks...

The clocks have gone back, the temperature is plummeting and leaves are losing their green.

Which, to channel Game of Thrones can only mean one thing - WINTER IS COMING. And that means energy bills will be bursting.

So I want to play a little game of True or False with you over a series of popular energy myths. See how many you get right, and give yourself a warm pat on the back if you do well, and a cold slap across your fiscal face if you get most wrong.

TRUE OR FALSE. The cheapest way to pay energy bills is by direct debit?

True (but specifically it needs to be monthly direct debit). Then suppliers offer discounts of around 7%. Yet while you pay less in total, as it’s estimating your usage, if it overestimates it could ask you for more cash – leaving you in-credit - or worse, leaving you underpaying, and in debt with it. So ensure you always give regular meter readings to get accurate bills. And if you think its estimate is wrong, you’ve a right to challenge.

TRUE OR FALSE. It’s cheaper to leave the heating on low all day rather than have it turned off and on?

False(ish). Just pay to pump energy in as and when is needed, as to keep pumping it in constantly isn’t efficient. Using a timer’s best, because your thermostat is designed to turn your heating on and off to keep your home at the temperature you set it.

This is the view of both the Energy Saving Trust and British Gas, so in general I’d stick with that.

sure you select ‘all tariffs’ as some comparison sites now default to only show you the ones that will pay them (my cheap energy club doesn’t do this).

If the landlord says it’s written into your contract that you can’t switch, challenge it. Preventing a tenant from changing energy suppliers may be viewed as an unfair term in a tenancy agreement.

Talk to www.citizensadvice.org.uk to see if it can help.

TRUE OR FALSE. If you’re in credit when you switch energy provider they must give you the money back?

True (now anyway). If you pay by direct debit and when you leave an energy firm you’re in credit, then since 2014 you should automatically get this back.

But track it and if the supplier doesn’t, call it and ask for the cash.

TRUE OR FALSE. Renters can’t switch energy provider without their landlords’ permission?

False. You have a right to switch energy provider in your home even if you only pay the rent. There are two exceptions to this 1) If you don’t pay for energy yourself, it’s all included in your rent 2) If you’re looking to switch meter, eg from prepayment to a credit meter, as that’s a physical change to the property that needs permission.

TRUE OR FALSE. When you change energy supplier someone will need to visit your home?

False. Nobody usually visits your home. Your pipes don’t change and your gas and electricity won’t get cut off. You don’t even need to contact your old energy supplier to tell it you’re switching. The only thing that changes is the price and service. It’s so easy to switch. It isn’t a big deal.

So feel free to do a comparison. Just plug your details into my www.cheapenergyclub.com or any other www.ofgem.co.uk - approved comparison site and it’ll tell you the best deal for you. Just make

Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySavingExpert.com. To join the 12 million people who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip

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including the UK’s largest classic car event, the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show.

FACT FILE: NAME: Andrew Evanson COMPANY: Lancaster Insurance START DATE: 2002 LOCATION: St Ives, Cambridgeshire

TELL US ABOUT LANCASTER INSURANCE: Lancaster Insurance currently employs 110 people in the local area and has been based in St Ives, Cambridgeshire for over 30 years. It specialises in arranging insurance for classic cars, in addition to a range of other niche insurance products including 4x4s, American vehicles, Equine insurance, Kit cars and much more.

WHAT ROLE DO YOU PLAY IN THE COMPANY? I am the Senior Operations Manager and I am in charge of the day to day running of the business looking after marketing, sales and operations management. I am also responsible for the strategic planning required to take the company forward.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR LINE OF WORK? Classic cars are people’s pride and joy; our customers have a real connection to them and genuinely see them as an extension of their family.

The niche products we provide aim to protect them and it’s a pleasure to be able to help such enthusiastic people.

WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS’ BIGGEST CHALLENGE? Keeping up with the fast moving market and identifying new trends before they happen. For instance, popularity for a certain marque may increase between seasons and there are new and modern classics emerging all the time. We have to ensure that we innovate and grow to provide customers with the best cover we can at our best price.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WORKING IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND? It’s where I grew up and so it’s nice to give something back to the community.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO VISIT IN EAST ANGLIA? It would have to be Cambridge. I love the history, the mix of cultures and its pure beauty takes my breath away every time I go there.

WHAT AREAS DO YOU COVER IN EAST OF ENGLAND? Our customers are nationwide but the head office is based in St Ives. We also have deep rooted connections to car clubs within the local area, including the MG Owners’ Club who are based in Swavesey.

WHAT EVENTS ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND IN 2018?

From a personal level, I look forward to the Latitude festival, set in the beautiful Suffolk countryside. From Lancaster’s point of view, we will be at a range of shows including Kimbolton Country Fair, Knebworth House and LRO Show in Peterborough.

WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT FROM OTHER BUSINESSES IN YOUR INDUSTRY? Lancaster Insurance lives and breathes classics and all employees are taken to the MG Owners’ Club, as part of their induction, so they can see classics up close and personal and help to get them excited about their job. We are committed to supporting the industry and sponsor a range of events

WHAT CAN EASTLIFE READERS LOOK FORWARD TO FROM LANCASTER INSURANCE? We will be attending and sponsoring multiple car shows of all sizes and varieties. Sign up to our newsletter by visiting www.lancasterinsurance.co.uk and filling in the form at the bottom of the page, so we can keep you up to date with our latest deals and movement within the community.

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

Just £14,500 deposit* is all you need to buy your 2-bedroom apartment at Duchess Court, with Help to Buy.

We are delighted to present Duchess Court, a collection of 2-bedroom apartments, situated within the popular Bellway at QEII development.

All homes feature contemporary fitted Symphony kitchens, spacious open-plan living areas and come with allocated parking.

2-bedroom apartments priced from £289,995

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

Typical interior

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

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

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MODEL: Mercedes-Benz GLC PRICE: From £34,802 ENGINE: 250 d 4MATIC Sport PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 138mph CO2 EMISSIONS: 129g/km COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 56.5MPG Written by Sue Cooke Twitter @cookecars Can’t you tell we are in the coldest season of the year? One of the aspects of December I really hate is the shorter daylight hours and longer nights accompanied by unsettled weather conditions. Usually I come out of work feeling cold and shivery and dreading the congested drive home. Except that this week I have looked forward to leaving the office.

I have been road testing the Mercedes-Benz mid-sized SUV. The GLC has greeted me with head-turning exterior design and as I enter the exceptionally spacious cabin the interior is bathed in a gorgeous warming light. The optional LEDs provide ambient lighting around the centre console, footwells and overhead panel, in a choice of amber, ice blue (which I really like) or white.

As I click the seat belt into place a familiar Mercedes pull from behind, ensures my security. The company’s traditional hallmarks of luxurious accommodation and peerless safety combine to give a deep sense of being cosseted. It’s wonderful at the end of a long day.

The C in the GLC name refers to its link with the award-winning C-class and the SUV has an exceptionally spacious cabin and generous luggage capacity from 550 litres with rear seats in place to 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded flat. The road test car uses the Keyless-Go comfort package which I would definitely add to my options list. The package includes automatic powered boot closing, keyless start and hands-free access which meant the key

remained somewhere at the bottom of my bag all week. And when I did my weekly shop and returned to the car hands full, it was so cool to make a kicking movement under the rear bumper, which caused the tailgate to glide open.

The other feature I appreciated this week is the technology. A computer mouse shaped instrument sits centre console. Audio 20 CD includes touchpad with integrated Media Interface and Bluetooth interface with hands free telephone and audio streaming for music transmission. There is a DAB digital radio tuner and a Garmin Map Pilot navigation system with Live Traffic information.

I drove the 250d diesel engine which is mated to a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. There are five driving programmes to choose from - Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual. For those living in rural areas and frequenting slippery grass parking sites for agricultural exhibitions or car boots, the GLC can be specified with the intelligent Off-Road Engineering package. Off-road driving modes include Slippery, Incline, Rocking Assist, Off-Road and Trailer.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC is available at your local Robinsons Motor Group: Mercedes-Benz of Norwich: 01603 751000 Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge: 01223 401100 Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds: 01638 769676 On-the-road-price at Robinsons Mercedes-Benz: £34,802

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5 Christmas trends you need to know about A

re you ready for the festive season? This Christmas decorations are taking over the whole home. No longer refined to the tree, we’ve listed this year’s glamorous trends for turning your home into a winter wonderland…

REAL FIR This year real firs are making a comeback. Forget dusting off the branches of your faux tree, wrap up warm and head out to one of the region’s Christmas tree farms and pick your very own tree. It’s an exciting event for the kids, plus your home will be filled with the gorgeous scent of fresh pine right through December!

A WINTER GARDEN If you’re not brave enough for bright shades, and prefer the traditional colours of Christmas, make a style statement by going all out with green.

Using rich green and emerald tones, combined with opulent fabrics such as velvet and faux fur, soft candlelight and fresh pine branches, you can create the perfect setting for a festive gathering with friends and family. image: HM

STYLISH SOIREES If you’re planning a festive party, get ahead of the style game with a choice of fancy glassware. From pretty Prosecco flutes and glitzy cocktail shakers to your very own mini bar – there’s no excuse for boring glassware this season! Taking the lead on fine dining is Marks and Spencer’s – check out their Christmas collection for all your party needs!

A SPLASH OF COLOUR It may be cold outside but this year Christmas is heating up with a touch of the tropics. Bright and playful colours, sequins and feathers are giving the festive season an exotic makeover. John Lewis’ ‘Tales of the Mahara ja’ collection invites the myths and tales told through classical Indian dance into your home. Showcasing a beautiful use of colour, this collection features opulent glass baubles adorned with beads and exotic paisley prints.

A WHITE CHRISTMAS What could be more romantic than a white Christmas? From white and neutral furnishings and sparkly décor to whimsical florals and glittery tree ornaments, the look is easily achievable. Now if only we could guarantee snow fall…

Image above: All from the Silent Night range available at Wyevale Garden Centres. www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk image left: Manhattan Mirror Tray £39.50, Bellagio 2 Pack Champagne Saucers £19.50, Bellagio 2 Pack Wine Glasses £19.50, Alphabet Glass £8 Gold Banded Medium Lantern £15, Paper Star Fortunes £5, Gold Beaded Place Mat £12.50, Mini Cocktail Shaker £10, all from Marks and Spencer’s

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Let LIGHT THERE BE

It’s easy to feel warm and cozy during December as the home is adorned with twinkling fairy lights, but once the decorations are packed away for another year, creating a snug, relaxing atmosphere becomes a little trickier. To keep you from succumbing to the effects of SAD this January, play around with the lighting in your home.

A simple and effective way of beating those dark winter nights, lighting can have a huge impact on the way we feel. Matthew Lincoln, co-founder and chief brand evangelist at Escapology says: “If you want to create a stunning atmosphere through the dark winter months, firstly, use more lights – the energy efficiency of LED bulbs means that you can introduce extra lighting without incurring a big electricity bill. Floor lamps and table lamps create a far better atmosphere than relying just on overhead lighting. Just think about how top hotels and restaurants go about creating that relaxed and sophisticated feeling.”

If you don’t have the budget for new lamps, Matthew suggests the use of vintage bulb LEDs. “They recreate the feel of old-style Edison filament bulbs. Many bulbs come with gold tinted glass and a deep orange glow from the LED filaments and many are dimmable. They are perfect for creating a relaxed atmosphere. Finally, combine the use of candles with subdued lighting.”

Image: Cuckooland

If you want to feel cozy but on trend, Neil Watton, creative director at Besselink & Jones says: “Trends for 2018 are looking towards a dramatic centre piece light, whether table or hanging combined with sumptuous hand painted lampshades.”

This style can easily be adapted for creating a snug atmosphere. He adds: “Lighting on a winter’s evening is all about being comfortable, so opt for using brass and bronzed lamps with deep red and ecru lampshades for a rich and ultra-luxe look.”

Now there’s no excuse to go into hibernation...

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

It is hard to believe that a year has passed since we moved to Frinton and started our journey to restore one of Percy Cane’s gardens. It has been an incredible year with fun and laughter along with a generous dose of blood, sweat and at times, tears. It is quite miraculous what we have managed to achieve with limited time and budget.

Where once stood an imposing 30-foot high yew hedge, which we chainsawed to the ground in January, we now have what is starting too look like the first hint of a hedge. Each York stone slab has been carefully restored by hand to remove layers of moss and reveal the beautiful stone beneath.

Metre after metre of border has been double dug by our gardener, and dressed with leaf mulch and organic manure in an attempt to start to break down the legendary Frinton clay that curses every bed. And whilst at one point we doubted we would be able to do any planting this side of spring, we can now gaze down the garden to see freshly planted hydrangeas, a fig tree, magnolias, ceanothus, philadelphus and herbaceous favourites such as crocosmia,

agapanthus, alliums and echinacea.

What was originally the kitchen garden and amounts to about a third of an acre, has been cleared of brambles which spiraled 30 feet up into the oak trees, trees hit by lightening have been reduced and the stream which was hidden by yet more brambles has been cleared and dredged. New fencing has tidied up boundaries and offered us a little protection from the local muntjac who are rather partial to the freshly shooting grass that has transformed this dark and dreary corner of the garden into an emerald coloured oasis.

We are a long, long way from the end of restoring this amazing garden, but we are finishing the year feeling satisfied and fulfilled by our achievements so far. And, with a little break over the festive season, we will feel energized and ready to carry on the journey into 2018 and beyond.

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas and all the best for the new year ahead.

Read more on Wendy’s blog at www.wendyswholeworld.com

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PROPERTY

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Long term demand for properties in fast growing East Anglia Is it a buyers or sellers market? Knowing when to buy or sell your home can be a difficult decision, however, regional estate agent Fenn Wright have predicted “good buying opportunities” as the market shifts.

It’s been a successful year for regional estate agent Fenn Wright, which recorded a strong summer for sales across its eight residential branches, but are now advising sellers to be realistic in their pricing strategy as the market is seeing a transition to more of a ‘buyers’ market’.

Alan Williams, managing partner at Fenn Wright, said: “We are seeing a lot of activity and better availability of properties coming onto the market creating some good buying opportunities.

“However, it’s now a much more price sensitive market. Some properties are taking longer to sell so sellers need to be properly advised on a pricing strategy at the outset because a modest reduction from an over ambitious asking price can sometimes do more harm than good.”

According to the latest Halifax house price survey it has been predicted that a squeeze on spending and rising prices could stifle future demand. However, it is believed that the housing market is unlikely to be badly affected by a future interest rate rise.

Alan Williams continued: “In this market, a lot of care and attention is needed by experienced agents to steer a sale effectively through to exchange of contracts and completion and we have noticed an increased ‘fall-through’ rate across the region, which can be frustrating for all concerned.

“Stretched affordability is now impacting the market and indications are that prices will stabilise for the time being but against that we all know that there is enormous long term demand for housing in our fast growing region.”

As expected for the lettings sector demand from tenants over the summer months has remained strong and the market overall has performed well for investors. However, it isn’t all roses as Fenn Wright’s partner, Joseph Hall explains: “Available stock remains an issue for all types of property and this continues to fuel tenant demand and rents as the lack of supply continues to fall short of tenant demand.

“We are yet to feel the full effect of the abolition of mortgage interest relief, and we believe with the hardening of the residential sales market that investors will now take the opportunity to purchase properties at a reduced rate in a more static market.”

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

4 & 5 bedroom show homes available to view Sanderson Manor

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

s now available in Hauxton

With over a decade of supplying the highest quality giclée print and framing services around, Bob & Gary really are the only people to visit in 2017 for your fine art print & framing.

UNDER 200 UNDER 200 EXHIBITION CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION Saturday 2nd December - Saturday 23rd December 2017

Saturday 2nd December - Saturday 23rd 2017 Thursday - Sunday 10.00am -16.00pm orDecember by appointment Thursday - Sunday 10.00am -16.00pm or by appointment FLOAT gallery 1 Hawthorn Way FLOAT gallery Cambridge 1 Hawthorn Way CB4 1AT Cambridge 07751120061 CB4 1AT www.floatgallery.co.uk 07751120061 www.floatgallery.co.uk

Call us on 01223 904032 E-mail us at info@photoartgb.com Visit us at www.photoartgb.com Rectory Farm 1 Brewery Road Pampisford Cambridge CB22 3EN

DECEMBER ARTS NEWS GAINSBOROUGH’S HOUSE PLANS REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT Gainsborough’s House is planning a £8.5m redevelopment project on an empty local authority building, situated at the rear of the museum.

Alpaca Felted Pot by Claire Kiely

Iris by Judith Clover

CHELMSFORD MUSEUM OPENS DOORS FOR ART SOCIETY’S WINTER EXHIBITION Art lovers could stumble upon the next Grayson Perry or Billie Bond as talented and well respected local artists’ work goes on display at Chelmsford Museum, Oaklands Park, as part of the Chelmsford Art Society’s Winter Exhibition, from 9 December to 14 January.

The Chelmsford Art Society will be showcasing 100 works of art that utilise acrylics, water colours, pastels, screen printing and oils, by both professional artists and skilled amateurs. The displayed art work will be for sale and the exhibition is a fantastic opportunity to buy original pieces of art for affordable prices.

Entry to the Winter Exhibition and the Foaming Seas - the Coast Line of Orkney is free. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums

The new building will feature; new exhibition spaces for loans of international renown, a Gainsborough Gallery showing the best of the artist’s full-length portraits, a community gallery for printmakers, contemporary artists and schools, and a landscape studio with the view of the countryside replicated in Gainsborough’s famous portrait, “Mr and Mrs Andrews.”

By transforming the existing museum and creating a further four galleries, the aim of the project is to ensure the continued recognition of Thomas Gainsborough’s life and art. As a result of the project, the museum will be able to share their insights to the artist’s personal and family life, as well as his art.

The new building will also create up to five on-going apprenticeship opportunities, offering community members the chance to learn valuable skills. www.gainsborough.org

NEW EXHIBITION AT RIVERSIDE ART & GLASS Seven Sudbury artists will be taking part in their first group exhibition at The Annexe at Riverside Art & Glass Gallery in Wroxham from 7 to 20 December.

The exhibition will showcase a display of contemporary glass art, ceramics, paintings, original prints, textiles and sculpture.

Show highlights will include the gossamer softness of Clare Kiely’s textiles, all spun, woven or felted by hand with fleece gathered from Norman, Clement and Fergus, her own home-reared alpacas. There are soft pastels and delicate florals by Judith Glover, sensitive, abstract oil paintings and organic ceramics

by Marnie Deakins and Rebecca Mansbridge’s skilfully crafted, fused glass artworks in bright, jewel-like colours. www.riversideartandglass.co.uk

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sailmakersshopping.co.uk

IPSWICH Written by Natalie at at stumpygumbo.com

Fancy discovering somewhere new? Or perhaps you need a little inspiration. This month, explore Ipswich, East Anglia’s waterfront town. Check out five fun events taking place this December…

G & T and Lunch, Friday 1 December The Station Hotel, 2 Burrell Road, Ipswich, IP2 8AJ Love gin? Or fancy trying something new? This is a tasting of three gins with a spot of lunch. www.thestationhotelipswich.co.uk Inflatable 5K Santa Run, Saturday 2 December, 8.30am - 3.30pm Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, IP3 8UH Forget your ordinary 5k run, get ready for the UK’s only inflatable 5k Santa Run! Grab your hats for quite possibly the most mental 5k Santa run you’ll ever see! www.ukrunningevents.co.uk/5k-running-events/inflatable-5k-santa-run-Ipswich

SUFFOLK

5 reasons to visit

Henley Christmas Fayre, Saturday 9 December, 10am to 3.30pm Henley Community Centre, Ashbocking rd Church Meadows, Henley, Nr Ipswich, IP6 0RP Henley Christmas Fayre will be full of lovely stalls and Christmas crafts, refreshments, hot food and a bar. All profits will go to a local charity. Free admission Otley House Christmas Tour, Thursday 14 December, 6.30pm Otley Hall, Hall Lane, Otley, IP6 9PA A Christmas tour to start the festive celebrations, followed by mulled wine and nibbles in the Great Hall, lit by candle light and roaring log fires. www.otleyhall.co.uk Turkey Buster Guided Walk, Thursday 28 December, 10.30am Ipswich Tourist Guides Association, St Stephens Church, St Stephens Lane, Ipswich, IP1 1DP Ipswich Tourist Guides provide a fascinating range of guided walks for the public around the town. Why not join the popular ‘Turkey Buster’ walk to work off some of those extra calories?

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STEP INTO CHRISTMAS AT THE WHITE LION, ALDEBURGH There is plenty to enjoy this festive season...

Festive Christmas Lunches - 1-23 December Festivi-tea - daily from 3pm - 5pm in December Lunch with Santa - Sunday 3 December Ladies Lunch - Monday 4 December Christmas Party Nights - 8/9 December Boxing Day Lunch - £35 per person Settle in for Christmas – 3 night break from £550 per person Two night new year break from £330 per person

If we can help to entertain you. please call 01728 452720 or visit whitelion.co.uk White Lion Hotel, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh IP15 5BJ

CHRISTMAS ON THE

Suffolk Coast

Written by Siobhan Foskett @ siobhanfoskett

Christmas is a magical time of year that means different things to different people. For some it is about celebrating the religious festival and to others it is about having the family come together and spending some quality time with the ones you love. A part of the area we live in that really does get into the Christmas spirit is on the Suffolk Coast. Here, we will walk you through the month with what you can see and do throughout December in Suffolk: In the build up to Christmas If you are not quite in the Christmas spirit yet and you need something to really kick start the festive mood within you, the perfect place to visit would be the Aldeburgh Celebration of Christmas. It takes place on Saturday 2 December starting at 11am and will be held along Aldeburgh High Street.

There will be plenty for the whole family to enjoy including a funfair set up near Moot Hall, stalls selling

gifts made by local traders, a school choir singing Christmas carols and refreshment stalls serving mince pies and mulled wine. Plus Santa will be paying a visit! It all ends with the grand finale at 4pm with the Christmas light switch on and carol singing.

By now you should be in the festive mood and ready to get some last minute Christmas shopping done, and one of the best places to do so on the Suffolk Coast is Southwold. Nestled among the mix of high street and independent stores you can find in Southwold, you will find Denny of Southwold on the Market Place; a clothing boutique stocking both men’s and women’s clothing. Stock includes brands varying from Lulu Guinness to Barbour and Vivienne Westwood, ideal for special gifts. They currently have a new autumn collection too, certainly worth a browse to find something for that special person in your life.

Brave the cold and join in Southwold’s Christmas Day swim - image by Cathy Ryan

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Find Perfect The Perfect ChristmasGift Gift Find The Christmas Find The Perfect Christmas Gift Stockists Of Stockists OfOf Stockists

Find The Perfect Christmas Gift

Find The Perfect Stockists OfChristmas Gift Stockists Of

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

Open 7 Days | 01502 722372 | info@dennyofsouthwold.co.uk

11 Market Place, Southwold, Suffolk

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

Winter sunrise in Southwold

Christmas Eve Before you know it, along comes Christmas Eve. If you’re looking to getaway from home and take a break from the pressure of entertaining, how better to do it than by booking a cosy cottage to stay in?

In Southwold, there are a large variety of cottages available to choose from (including a very aptly named ‘Christmas Cottage’ at www.suffolk-secrets. co.uk). A lot of the cottages are just a short walk from the local restaurants and pubs and also from the beach, perfect for enjoying a nice Christmas tipple in one of the local Adnams pubs, followed by a brisk walk along the shore to blow away the cobwebs before heading back and settling down in front of the fire.

Enjoy Christmas at the White Lion Hotel

Christmas Day If you fancy a real treat this Christmas Day, the White Lion Hotel in Aldeburgh are offering a tree-night package which covers Christmas Day, Boxing Day and 27 December. The offer includes breakfasts, lunches, evening meals, a festive quiz and even a magician. It would be the perfect place to celebrate the Christmas period without having the stress of doing the cooking yourself. Christmas Day itself will be started with a full Suffolk breakfast and the Christmas lunch will be a seven-course magnificent feast! For more information or to book a room visit: www.whitelion.co.uk/christmas If, between all of the Christmas food, you are looking for something fun and outdoorsy to do, why not pop to Southwold for the traditional Christmas Day swim?

You can either register to take part or, if you aren’t feeling quite brave enough, you can go along to spectate and cheer on all of the other swimmers. If you are looking to take part, you can register to swim at www.southwoldrotary.co.uk/swim If you’re planning on joinng this year’s Christmas Day swim, share your photos with us by using the hashtag #eastlifexmas

Wrap up and enjoy a walk along Aldeburgh beach

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The Dolphin

& Village Store

www.thorpenessdolphin.com 01728 454994 dolphininn@hotmail.co.uk

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY NOW Christmas Parties available 28th Nov - 22nd Dec 2 course - £15 3 course - £18 Christmas Quiz - 20th Dec Christmas Day - Open for drinks 12-3pm New Years Eve - Live music and Street food www.aldringhamparrot.com 01728 830221 parrotandpunchbowl@hotmail.com

A real country pub with a big heart for food

We supply a large range of high quality outdoor apparel and footwear, as well as a full range of branded hunting, fishing and shooting equipment and accessories.

3a & 3b Wilfred Bridge Rd, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1RB

Tel: 01394 385567 Fax: 01394 387757

www.stuartsoutdoor.com

Christmas in Thorpeness Christmas Parties 22nd Nov - 22nd Dec 2 course 14.95 3 course 17.95 14th - Christmas Pub Quiz 15th - Christmas Party Night 24th - Christmas Eve Bash New Years Eve - Celebrating Broadway

**BOOK NOW**

Ickworth House

When you start new traditions, it helps us keep our past alive.

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone.

nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth

© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images.

#nationaltrust

3 0 Y EA R S O F EX PER I E NCE AT Y O U R F E ET

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What’s on in Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 1 Dec - 14 Jan Dick Whittington A traditional family pantomime for the ride of a lifetime as young Dick Whittington sets off to London to make his fame and fortune! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

dawns. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org

Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk

4-Dec Christmas Memories An afternoon of festive nostalgia mixed with over 40 stunning costumes. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, King Street, Ipswich IP1 1DH. apps.ipswich.gov.uk

11-Dec It’s a Wonderful Life 70 years on from its original release, you have an opportunity to enjoy this perennial favourite on the big screen, complete with a 20-minute introduction from the star himself - Oscar-winning actor and War veteran James Stewart (as portrayed on stage

by Greg Powles). Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org

16 Dec - 2 Jan Jack and The Beanstalk Welcome to the world of fairytales, where poor hero Jack and his dotty mum Dame Trott are tricked into selling their beloved cow Daisy for a useless bag of beans. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100

5-Dec The Nutcracker A young girl’s enchanted present leads her on a wonderful Christmas adventure in this beautiful classical ballet, danced to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk

12-Dec The Royal Ballet presents The Nutcracker (Encore) With its festive period setting, dancing snowflakes and enchanting stage magic, Lev Ivanov’s 1892 ballet has become the perfect Christmas entertainment. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130www.fishertheatre.org

7-8 Dec Lets Have A Party – Lowrider Christmas Show Packed with Christmas songs and fun, its been said its more Christmassy than a Panto. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk

13-Dec Panto at Haughley Park An original Panto in the beautiful setting of Haughley Park.

Haughley, Stowmarket, IP14 3JY 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org

8-9 Dec The Witches This adaptation of Roald Dahl’s frightening story will have you laughing and gasping as you follow a young boy and his grandma on a summer holiday they’ll never forget! The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 9-Dec A Christmas Spectacular This year’s show is sure to dazzle audiences with its fast paced numbers and colourful costumes.

With lots of Christmas classics, this show is suitable for all the family. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton, Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 10-Dec Cinema and Create ‘Arthur Christmas’ The loveable story of Arthur (James McAvoy), Santa’s youngest son, who has to deliver a present to the forgotten child before Christmas morning finally

13 Dec - 1 Jan Aladdin This year’s pantomime will star former high-profile politician Ann Widdecombe, A1 boyband member Mark Read and resident funny man Terry Gleed. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft NR32 1HH 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 14-24 Dec Ebenezer A truly wonderful musical play based on Dickens’ ‘A Chrismas Carol’. As the snow falls outside, and distant carollers sing, join in watching the aging Ebenezer as he learns the hard way the true meaning of Christmas.

The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Roa, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 16-23 Dec Bah Bumhug!

The Adult Panto team returns!

This time transporting you to a Traditional Victorian London.

Filled with rats, endemic poverty, child labour and cholera. Merry Christmas plebs! This show contains adult content. The

17-Dec Lets Have A Christmas Party Capture the spirit of Christmas with Lowrider’s Christmas show full of music and laughter. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 17-Dec Paul Chowdhry: Live Innit Paul Chowdhry, brings his highly anticipated new stand-up show to venues nationwide. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 20-Dec Santa and the Lazy Pirate This show is ideal for ages six and under and is a perfect introduction to the magic of pantomime. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 20-Dec Aladdin and his Amazing Magic Lamp This most magical of pantomimes will feature even more dazzling costumes, brilliant scenery, amazing illusions, and fantastic live music. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 20 Dec - 2 Jan Dick Whittington & his Cat It’s panto time again (oh yes it is!) - the classic Dick Whittington and His Cat in another brilliant script by Ben Crocker! Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org MUSIC

5-Dec Carols From Cambridge The ever-popular annual carol

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

Now in store the New Brother Innov-IS VR machine Plus Much More...

Jill & Ian are looking forward to meeting you in our lovely Tea Room, come and sample their home baked goodies.... baked daily at The SHED We now offer a full Upholstery Service alongside our French Polishing and Restoration, free quotes given.

We stock new and preloved country clothing and footwear from top brands e.g. Joules, Dubarry, Aigle, Barbour and more Huge stock of Stripped Pine antique furniture, dressers, chests, cabinets etc

15A Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB

The Shed, 1a High Street, Sproughton, Suffolk IP8 3AF www.theshedsuffolk.co.uk | 01473 748519

Telephone 01502 714234

We are a family run business established in 2004, giving advice on:

eve st clair of Long Melford

Equity Release

Autumn Winter collections now in!

Call Kathy Forsdike on 01473 784939 to discuss your requirements.

Fantastic collections from Marble Emreco Robell Barbara Lebek Pomodoro Tulchan and more.

Initial consultation will be free of charge with no obligation.

This is a lifetime mortgage.

To understand the features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration.

Check that this mortgage will meet your needs if you want to move or sell your home or you want your family to inherit it. If you are in any doubt, seek independent advice.

There will be a fee for Equity Release advice.

The precise amount will depend on your circumstances but we estimate that it will be ÂŁ995 on completion of the mortgage.

Mortgage innovations is an Appointed Representative of Pink Homes Loans.

Pink Home Loans is a trading name of Advance Mortgage Funding Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Kathy Forsdike CeMAP CeRER t: 01473 784939 m: 07901 761690 e: m.innovations@btinternet.com Lindos, Main Road, Witnesham, Ipswich, Suffolk IP6 9EW

Find your perfect Christmas gift from our exciting selection of scarves, hats and jewellery.

Gift vouchers and gift wrapping available.

The Old Pharmacy, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk CO10 9JQ Opening hours: Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm

01787 312182 info@evestclair.com

concert set in the beautiful surroundings of St Mary’s Church, Honey Hill. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 5-Dec Raymond Froggatt Christmas Matinee Show Raymond Froggatt writes and sings his own songs mesmerising his audience. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 7-Dec Let’s Hang On This award-winning production, endorsed by Frankie Valli himself, celebrates the music of one of popular music’s most successful bands of all time.

The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 7-Dec Christmas Memories with Neil Sands It is a truly spectacular mix of over 60 of your favourite Christmas songs and carols, 40 stunning costume changes, lots of good old fashioned festive fun.

Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 10-Dec 60s Hits & Laughter Christmas Matinee Special The show opens with The Tornados, followed by The Foundations and Dozy, Beaky, Mick and Tich close the show!

The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 14-Dec The Rat Pack presents - Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Join the fantastic cast of singers and dancers and the live show band including brass section as they perform the very best Christmas songs and traditional festive favourites. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 14-Dec Let’s Twist Again 2017 Fun and laughter with the greatest hits of Elvis, Dusty, Lulu, The Beatles, Sandie Shaw, The Drifters, Frankie Valli, Cilla and more. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 16-Dec The Kate Bush Story This award-winning show will transport you to the world of Kate Bush - a transcript in music of the career of one of the most iconic female performers of the twentieth century. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay,

NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 18-Dec Jazz at the Movies With a reputation for vivid music, deep repertoire and droll presentation, Jazz at the Movies and their Swinging Christmas show is the perfect way to begin the festivities. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 21-Dec Eliza Carthy and the Wayward Band: Big Machine Tour The album is undoubtedly one of Eliza’s most adventurous and accomplished works to date, and their live show, which features a who’s who of names in the folk world, is equally as impressive, ambitious and exhilarating. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD.01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk

18 Nov - 2 Jan 2018 Christmas Exhibition Southwold Gallery 64a High Street, Southwold, IP18 6DN 01502 723888. www.southwoldgallery.co.uk/exhibitions SPECIAL EVENTS 16-Dec Crafts & Gifts at The Apex Local exhibitors offer a great selection of handmade crafts & unique gifts. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 16-Dec Father Christmas sails into Snape Maltings Bring the whole family for this wonderful festive spectacle as Father Christmas arrives by historic Thames sailing barge.

Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110. snapemaltings.co.uk

22-Dec Murphy’s Lore Murphy’s Lore are one of the UK’s most established independent folk rock bands and have played extensively across the UK and Europe over the last decade.

The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org

23-Dec Christmas Farmers’ Market The market has a wonderful bustling atmosphere and provides easy access for people to buy high quality, local foods and treats for Christmas direct from Suffolk’s artisan producers.

Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110 snapemaltings.co.uk

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 13-Dec Rembrandt Noir In this talk, Fiona will investigate how Rembrandt uses black line and dark depth to create a profundity of feeling. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk

9-Dec Christmas Wreath Making Workshop Learn how to make a beautiful Christmas wreath for you to take home. Suffolk Punch Trust, Woodbridge Walk, Hollesley, Woodbridge, IP12 3JR suffolkpunchtrust.org

5 Dec - 28 Jan The Guildhall Portraits An exhibition reflecting the renovation of the Guildhall including a selected number of paintings from the 15th to 18th Century previously on display.

The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 1-7 Dec Made to Make You Smile!

Sculptor Sally Dunham, whose work is displayed nationwide, will be visiting Snape with her latest collection of ‘A moment with Mister Herbert’ sculptures.

The Quay Gallery, Aldeburgh. snapemaltings.co.uk 14-Dec Floral Art Workshop: Christmas Table Piece Using a beautiful combination of seasonal materials Helen will advise you on selecting the best foliage and natural decoration to last throughout the festive season. Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110 snapemaltings.co.uk

8-10 & 15-17 Dec Dickensian Christmas Celebrate the start of the Festive season with a great family day out with a range of traditional family activities including; Long Shop Museum, Main Street, Leiston, IP16 4ES. 01787 310207 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 2-Dec Halesworth Brocante Antique & Vintage Market Held on the first Saturday of each month, there will be 30 plus brocanteurs selling a wide range of goods including vintage tools, jewellery, ceramics, vintage clothes and more. Entry is free, open 9am-3pm. The Old Print Works, Halesworth, IP19 8AP

6-Dec Suffolk’s Graham Turner Antiques Fairs 40 Professional dealers. No reproduction or modern items.

Open 9.30am-3.30pm. Long Melford Village Memorial Hall, Chemists Lane, Long Melford CO10 9LQ

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OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from

10.00am

The place to visit Group bookings call: 01493 369477 or email: mail@thrigbyhall.co.uk

THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH

N R29 3DR 01493 369477 www.thrigbyhall.co.uk

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From initial design to final installation and completion, our kitchens are specifically and individually created to your needs from the finest materials and finished by hand too.

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We specialise in hardwood and granite worktops.

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Handmade Traditional Old Pine & Painted Kitchen Unit 3, Hall Farm, Station Road, Pulham Market, Diss Telephone/Fax: 01379 608873 www.beamendskitchens.co.uk

Stoves, Fireplaces, Mirrors, Pictures & Accessories

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The Annex is expanding to sell online through Kitchen Fixtures, a forward looking brand to allow people all across the country to purchase the high quality products from The Annex.

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

The Annex – 113 Unthank Road, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 2PE 01603 628 080 – www.handmadekitchensnorfolk.co.uk

38 ST GILES IS A BOUTIQUE B&B LOCATED IN THE HEART OF NORWICH Awarded 5* by the AA, our exceptional breakfasts have also received consecutive awards for excellence.

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NORFOLK

SECRET NORFOLK Life in a Fine County Written by Nicole Ranaweera

Make sure you take a break from the Christmas shopping to enjoy a feast at Norwich Market this December!

There’s been a recent food revolution on the Market, upping the foodie game with new feast stalls appearing all the time. And, with a selection of cuisines that range from European to Asian it really is no surprise that Norwich Market has recently won the EDP Best Independent Food & Drink Award and was named one of Culture Trip’s 10 best markets in England.

Finding foodie treats from most corners of the globe is quite frankly the best way to explore the hidden treasures of the market, and I promise you won’t be disappointed!

LOOK OUT FOR: Bia’s Kitchen, Stall 54-55 These guys will revolutionise your thinking when it comes to Vegan food! Delicious vegan street food that is soooo tasty! Their pulled jack bap is a personal favourite! www.biakitchen.co.uk Churros & Chorizo, Stall 20 This Spanish street food and deli stall will really help bring the sunshine to your shopping trip. Perfect for grabbing a bite on the run or for picking up hard-tofind Spanish items from their fabulous deli. www.facebook.com/churrosandchorizo Cocina Mia, Stall 152-153 If Chilean Street food intrigues you then this is the place to go! From empanada to steak sandwiches and Chilean salads this feast stall is taking Norwich by storm. twitter.com/CocinaMiaNR Sicily Market, Stall 34 Everyone loves pizza, and Sicily do not disappoint with their authentic wood fired treats! Of course pizza is not all you can get here – why not try one of their delicious arancinis too? www.sicilyvan.co.uk

Pulled jack bag at Bia’s Kitchen

Jakey the Bakey, Stall 32-33 From Nigella Lawson approved madeleines to Poutine, this stall serves beautifully crafted French cuisine. The baked goods really are superb! www.facebook.com/jakeythebakey27 Bun Box, Stall 23 From steamed bao buns to sticky sweet buns, the Bun Box, run by a local chef who swapped a London Michelin-starred restaurant for Norwich market, has recently joined this foodie hub with a unique take on Asian street food. www.instagram.com/bun_box_ Indian Feast, Stall 23 Indian cuisine is a staple in our household, and so this street food stall is a personal favourite of mine, offering some fantastic vegetarian & vegan options.

Top tip – definitely try the coriander chutney!

Fig Bar, Stall 50 Serving some of the best cakes in all of Norwich, The Fig Bar has a beautiful selection of various treats that are perfect for an afternoon pick me up or as a gift for a friend. It all looks and tastes amazingly decadent and indulgent so you’ll definitely be back for more! www.figbarnorwich.com

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Our new look takeaway at Platten’s

10% OFF YOUR NEXT VISIT* Overlooking the stunning coastal views of the harbour, our takeaway provides both takeaway and eat in options, where you can sit in the spacious 60 seat Fisherman’s Yard.

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Albatros Bar, Restaurant, B&B

On board historic sailing ship Albatros, The Quay, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AT Traditional DUTCH CUISINE including our famous DUTCH PANCAKES, PEA SOUP and APPLE CAKE Chef’s DAILY SPECIALS MENU with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Fully LICENSED BAR serving the best choice of local REAL ALES from cask Listed in The CAMRA GOOD BEER GUIDE since 2010 Speciality LODGING/B&B in the former CREW CABINS LIVE MUSIC every weekend OPEN daily for LUNCH and DINNER from 12 noon CLOSED on CHRISTMAS DAY

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN For more details visit www.albatroswells.co.uk

For Enquiries

07979 087228

Santa Sails into

Wells-next-the-Sea Forget Lapland, Wells-next-the-Sea is hopping aboard the Christmas festivities this month, as Santa sails into the Quayside as part of the annual Wells Christmas Tide Festival.

Last year’s festival was the biggest to date, attracting thousands of visitors to the Norfolk town. This year’s organisers, the Wells Lighting Committee alongside the Wells Harbour Team, have been hard at work to exceed expectations, and have a day of fun festivities planned, which will surely cement the event as one of the most popular Christmas events in the county.

Taking place on 2 December, festivities begin at 10am as craft and gift stalls unveil their goodies in Staithe Street, The Quayside and the town’s health centre car park. From 10.30am, the town will come alive with Christmas cheer as street entertainment and family activities keep everyone occupied and smiling in the cold weather. This year’s entertainers include The Norwich Samba Band, The Ukelele Elves, the Blakeney Old Wild Rovers and many more.

Image credit: Twitter @Scullridge

As the sun slips below the horizon, the town’s Christmas lights will be switched on by David Whiteley of BBC Look East at 4.15pm, followed by the Grand Illuminated Lantern Parade through the town led by Dave he Piper and the Norwich Samba Band – make sure you stop by the lantern workshop with children during the day, where they can make their own lantern to take part!

It’s then time to grab something warm and line the Quayside at 5.30pm for carol singing and the arrival of Santa by boat. Once Father Christmas has stepped foot on dry land he will meet and greet all the children before heading to his grotto at the Adventure Playland. But not before he lights the fuse for another great Wells Christmas Tide Festival tradition – the fantastic festive fireworks display from across the marshes!

We couldn’t think of anything more Christmassy if we tried! Just remember to wrap up warm!

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SUPPLIERS OF THE

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•

BURNHAM MARKET

What’s on in Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 25 Nov - 30 Dec The Cromer Pier Christmas Show The show will warm your hearts and get you ready for the Christmas season with a whole heap of festive fun. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier, Cromer NR27 9HE. 01263 512495 www.cromerpier.co.uk/whats-on 27 Nov - 2 Dec How the Other Half Loves As Bob and Fiona clumsily try to cover up their affair, their spouses’ intervention only adds to the confusion. William and Mary Featherstone become hopelessly stuck in the middle, falsely accused of adultery and with no idea as to how they’ve become involved. The plot culminates in two disastrous dinner parties on successive nights, shown at the same time, after which the future of all three couples seems in jeopardy…

Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 1 Dec - 1 Jan Cinderella ‘Cinderella’, the most popular Panto of all time comes to the original home of pantomime with the longest run within West Norfolk. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 4-Dec Nathan Caton Following the success of last year’s Straight Outta Middlesex tour, the prolific Nathan Caton is back! He’s keeping it real and keeping it funny, dissecting all things from the personal to the political in this hilarious show. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 7-9 Dec A Midsummer Night’s Dream Over the course of one Midsummer’s Night, the whole world is turned upside down.

By turns hilarious, poetic and magical, this is one of Shakespeare’s best-loved plays.

Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Harleston’s Christmas Festivities Saturday 2nd December Combine stress-free Christmas shopping with family fun in Harleston, between Diss and Bungay! The town has an impressive array of independent shops and there will also be a street market with scrumptious food and drink, crafts and gifts, festive wreaths and Christmas trees.

The Lost Elves, the Grinch and Too Many Cooks will provide pop-up entertainment whilst Santa will welcome children to his grotto at Harleston Information Plus. St John’s Church will host a Christmas Fair. The Christmas lights switch-on at 5.30pm will be preceded by Loddon Brass Band, a parade of lanterns, and a fire show from The Thudermentals. And, to top it all, parking is free in Harleston. www.visitharleston.org.uk 8-31 Dec Jack and the Beanstalk Join intrepid Jack on the adventure of a lifetime as he scampers boldly up the beanstalk to do battle with Giant Blunderbore. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www. kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 13 Dec - 14 Jan Sleeping Beauty A princess cursed by a very badtempered guest - the evil wicked witch. One day the Princess pricks her finger and falls asleep

for a hundred years! But will a handsome young prince be able to save the princess? Oh no he won’t…..Oh yes, he will! Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 14-16 Dec Lords and Ladies A hilarious yet perceptive comedy, which takes Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and passes it through the mangle, the late Sir Terry Pratchett’s brilliant novel is brought to life. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 7-Dec NT Live: Young Marx Broadcast live from The Bridge Theatre, London, the production is directed by Nicholas Hytner and reunites the creative team behind Broadway and West End hit comedy ‘One Man, Two Guvnors’.

Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www. sheringhamlittletheatre.com 8-Dec The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band Saved my Life In this gem of a play, we meet two wonderfully realised characters - two pop wannabees. They may be going nowhere but, in a hugely enjoyable play, laced with some great 60s songs, loads of humour and painful candour, it’s a trip well worth taking...

Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 9 Dec - 1 Jan The Wizard of Oz This Christmas follow the Yellow Brick Road for a pantomime version of the classic story ‘The Wizard of Oz’. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www. sheringhamlittletheatre. com 13-Dec Sh!t Theatre: Muppets Xmas Carol Come sing-a-long to the classic Christmas film! Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk

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

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Check bressingham.co.uk for entry times

Search Bressingham Steam

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

ADVERTORIAL

CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS VISITS VISITS at Bressingham at Bressingham

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P R E S E N T S

American Legends

An evening of fabulous music performed by the Royal Air Force’s finest musicians Marking the 70th Anniversary of the United States Air Force, the Bands of the Royal Air Force present a Stars & Stripes flavoured musical tribute performing pieces that have become the soundtrack to our lives over the last seven decades.

From Sinatra to Streisand, Basie to Bernstein and featuring the best of Big Band, Swing, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Motown, prepare to be entertained! The programme includes Send in the Clowns, Hoe Down, Stars & Stripes March and I Left My Heart in San Francisco.

Cliffs Pavillion, Southend Theatre Royal, Norwich 7.30pm Friday 1 December 7.00pm Sunday 3 December Call 01702 351135 or Call 01603 630000 or visit thecliffspavilion.co.uk visit theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk For more information visit rafinconcert.com

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15/08/2017 09:39

16-31 Dec The Wolves of Willoughby Chase A thrilling adventure of snowy wastelands and ferocious wolves. Expect steampunk costume, gripping storytelling and plenty of snarling wolves.

Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 16-30 Dec The Selfish Giant While the giant’s away the children play in his garden. But when he returns he wants his garden back! Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800. www.westacretheatre.com MUSIC 11-Dec The Young’uns The popular Teesside trio don their festive jumpers for a lighthearted romp through Christmas past, from carols rooted deep in the soil of Britain’s ancient wassail traditions to original songs of seasonal cheer and heartbreak. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 13-Dec The Christmas Singalong in the Hub Join in for some fun as we all sing some festive songs including Christmas classics, Christmas carols and Christmas hits. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE . 01263 822347. www. sheringhamlittletheatre.com 16-Dec Flatlands Festival Crimbo Party After the roaring success of its first festival, its bringing the party to Norwich Arts Centre for a special crimbo show featuring bands and djs spanning the genres until late. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 18-Dec A Vision of Elvis Transporting you on a musical journey from Sun Studios, the movie years, 1968 comeback and a stunning concert years finale.

Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 17-Dec Swing into Christmas The Jonathan Wyatt Big Band returns with their popular ‘Swing Into Christmas’ show. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 22-Dec The Blockheads 40th Anniversary Year Starting out as the band behind

Ian Dury, the Blockheads are a legendary outfit that has grown in stature from the early days of the Stiff tour in 1977, right up to the present day. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk

see the wonderful decorations, learn about how they were created and listen to the intriguing stories of Holkham’s history and of its residents past and present. Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AB. www.holkham.co.uk

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 18 Nov - 3 Apr 2018 Roger Law: From Satire to Ceramics The exhibition explores the full range of Law’s extraordinary career, in an exhibition that looks at his artistic and intellectual formation, and the successive environments he worked in.

Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, UEA, Norwich, NR4 7TJ scva.ac.uk

7-9 Dec UNIK Design Local, hand-made, creative and straight from the designers, these crafts for sale make the perfect gift for you or a loved one. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk

1 Dec - 21 Jan Brick Wonders This awesome family-friendly exhibition, curated by artist Warren Elsmore, features 500,000 LEGO® bricks to take you on a journey of discovery of amazing sites from around the world. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 2 Dec - 10 Jan Christmas Exhibition - Part 2 The second of two great collections of work for Christmas from selected artists. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt NR25 6BW. 01263 713312 www.birchamgallery.co.uk 8-9 Dec Inside the Box A solo exhibition by a local interior architect, designer and artist who works with ethical, sustainable products and promotes upcycling. See sample interiors displaying the artist’s work. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. ecoagadesign.com 15-16 Dec Art Exhibition by Sophia Flowers Sophia’s artwork is inspired by a colourful and vibrant palette awash with a rainbow of colours from nature. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 30 Nov - 2 Dec Norwich Global Village Market Explore the indoor stalls with traders selling beautiful gifts from around the world. Free entry.

The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. norwichglobalvillagemarket.co.uk Sundays 3-10 Dec Candle Lit Tours at Holkham Join one of the knowledgeable guides for a tour where you will

8-17 Dec Christmas Tree and Crib Festival at Great Yarmouth Minster The 7th Annual Christmas Tree & Crib Festival is a spectacular display of Christmas trees and cribs in the Minster, created by local community groups, businesses and schools. Church Plain, Great Yarmouth, NR30 1NE. 01493 853263 9-Dec Santa’s Grotto For Dogs If your dog is part of your family, you are going to love Santa’s Grotto for Dogs. Bring your dog along to The Forum to meet Santa Woof-Woof. Canine fancy dress and social media sharing encouraged! The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 14-15 Dec Modern Country Crafts An exciting selection of local craft traders and artists under one roof. Browse the very best of East Anglia’s thriving handmade craft and gift stalls. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 19-Dec Buy Local Expo Local businesses showcase their products and services with a distinct Christmas feel! The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk ANTIQUES & AUCTIONS 16-Dec Antique and Vintage Fair Browse the collections and see if you can find the one-off piece you’ve been looking for or grab a unique Christmas gift. Expect ceramics, glass, silver, jewellery and more. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 31-Dec Blakeney Antique & Collectors Fair Maximum 24 Tables. Free Parking. Open 10am-4pm.

Admission £1. Blakeney Village Hall, Blakeney, NR25 7NQ

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BEDROOMS & KITCHENS

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5

REASONS TO VISIT THIS CHRISTMAS

Written by Erica Roffe

Christmas in Bedford officially began on Thursday 23 November when Santa visited to switch on the lights, followed by the annual jaw-dropping fireworks display on the Embankment. This kicked off a month of festivities, showcasing the very best that Bedfordshire’s county town has to offer. Here’s our pick of the Christmas crackers: A Very BedPop Christmas will see a feast of festive activities over the weekend of 2 and 3 December in the Cultural Quarter. The BedPop Christmas Shop will bring together over 30 of Bedford’s best designers, artists, makers and crafters in the Higgins, with entertainment and festive food & drink. Santa will be in residence on Saturday and there are family arts activities and bookable workshops taking place. Don’t tell anyone, but it might even snow…

Castle Lane, Bedford MK40 3XD | bedpop.co.uk On 6 – 10 December, St Paul’s Church hosts one of the most eagerly-anticipated events of the season – its annual Christmas Tree Festival. Schools, business, charities and community groups all decorate their trees inspired by this year’s theme ‘Stories

Sparkly Bedford by Emma Mundall

for Children’. All proceeds are donated to Bedford Hospitals Charity.

On Saturday 16 December, Bedford Choral Society will perform a selection of Christmas Carols at Bedford Corn Exchange. Conductor: Ian Smith. www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk Bedford Messiah Choir’s annual performance of Handel’s Messiah will take place on the eve of Advent Sunday on Saturday 2 December at Bunyan Meeting.

The performance by the choir of 60 -70 local singers has been conducted by Janet Welsh since 2002 and features invited trumpet and vocal soloists, plus regular organist Richard Heyes. bedfordmessiahchoir.org.uk From 27 December – 1 January the award-winning Bedford Pantomime Company will be delighting audiences at the Corn Exchange with their production of Dick Whittington. The show will be a traditional, family panto at its best, with a live band, dazzling lighting, fabulous costumes and terrible jokes. There’ll be slapstick and mayhem on stage and loads of opportunity for the audience to join in the fun with every child in the audience invited on stage to join the cast in a song, Oh no there won’t. Oh yes there will! bedfordpanto.com

Christmas Tree Festival

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RE C RE OM C M O E M N M D EN ED D ED

Pin-Petch Pin-Petch ThaiThai Restaurant Restaurant is inisthe in the Grade Grade 2 listed 2 listed building building on the on the High High Street, Street, Newport Newport Pagnell, Pagnell, formally formally Odells Odells Ironmongers Ironmongers

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Christmas in NEWPORT PAGNELL There’s something quite special about Christmas shopping. Mooching around a beautiful market town, browsing the window displays and warming up with a bite to eat in a little café. If that has you feeling warm and cosy, then make sure you put a trip to Newport Pagnell on your to do list this December.

Christmas shopping This Buckinghamshire town is home to some wonderful independent businesses. There’s nothing better than supporting local retailers, especially at Christmas, and with stores offering fashion, homewares and gifts you’re bound to find something special. For one off gifts stop by No.38 Vintage Emporium on the High Street. Here you will find over 38 different traders under one roof selling a mix of vintage, antique, collectable and handmade items.

From cushions and candles and fashion and furnishings, you definitely won’t leave empty handed.

For a break from the cold, visit the Tickford Arcade, home to a number of boutiques and beauty salons.

If you’re still looking for the perfect party dress visit Boutique Cholpon which specialises in beautiful dresses and jewellery.

Festive food No Christmas shopping trip would be complete without stopping for a bite to eat. In Newport Pagnell

you are spoilt for choice as the town features cuisine from around the world. If you’re saving the turkey for Christmas Day book a table at Kakori; the town’s newest Indian restaurant. Aiming to redefine Indian cookery, the restaurant serves up modern Indian flavours fused with western techniques – you’re in for a treat!

Coffee lovers should head straight to Out of Office Coffee House on the High Street. Good coffee is hard to find, but this café pours a great cup of the hot stuff. A stylish and friendly environment, it’s the perfect place to warm up and indulge in a sweet treat. There’s pastries and brownies on offer including gluten-free and vegan options, plus free wifi! There’s the opportunity to stock up on festive food from local producers at the Farmer’s Market on 15 December.

The Christmas Tree Festival For some festive fun visit the Christmas Tree Festival at the Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul Newport Pagnell from 15-17 December. Local businesses and members of the community will be coming together to host a display of over 30 Christmas trees. The event is free entry but donations are welcome, and is perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit!

Out of Office Coffee House | facebook.com/outofofficecoffee

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St Albans Christmas market runs up to Saturday 23 December, to allow shoppers longer to soak up the festive atmosphere Pictures from St Albans City & District Council

Christmas in

ST ALBANS St Albans is one-stop shop for all Christmas needs this December with Christmas markets galore. Here’s everything you need to know…

Christmas Market St Albans has been home to a market for 1,000 years, so it comes as no surprise that the city knows how to celebrate Christmas in style. Back, bigger and better than before is the return of the European-inspired Christmas Market. It has become one of the highlights of the festive calendar, attracting visitors from near and far. For its fifth year, in 2017 the market will be longer than ever – operating almost up until Christmas itself. It will open on Saturday 25 November and run right up to Saturday 23 December, offering shoppers even more opportunity to soak up the festive atmosphere.

Taking place, in and around the walled Vintry Garden adjacent to the 11th-century St Albans Cathedral, it will feature 40 stalls selling gifts and goodies, including decorations, jewellery, clothing and homewares.

There will also be festive food including German-style bratwurst and warming hot chocolate. This year stallholders are vying with each other for the title of best-dressed chalet. You can vote for the one that you think is the most beautiful via the St Albans Facebook page.

A packed programme of festive fun within the Christmas Market, including music, dance, magic and circus skills will entertain the crowds. Visit the Tinseltown Tent for a fun-filled festive extravaganza with local bands, musicians, entertainers, community groups, youth groups and schools.

The Nutcracker Trail For families and visitors looking to explore the City’s charms in more sedate style, a Nutcracker Trail promises to delight the eye. The trail features 15 six-foot tall Nutcracker soldiers dotted throughout the city from the end of November (maps and entry forms are available from City Centre shops). Followers of the trail will be in with a chance of winning an iPad

Browse over 40 stalls at the Christmas market

Mini –be sure to post your entries and meet the Nutcracker King at the Christmas Market.

Extra markets If you time your visit right, you’ll get two markets for the price of one! St Albans Charter Market operates on St Peters Street in the City Centre throughout the year on Wednesdays and Saturdays, selling everything from fabric to fruit. From Sunday 17 December this vibrant market – one of the biggest weekday markets in the region – is on every day until Christmas Eve. Dates for your diary: Christmas Market: Saturday 25 November – Saturday 23 December. Mon-Wed & Fri 11am-6pm. Thu 11am-8pm. Sat & Sun 10am-6pm Charter Market: Every Wednesday and Saturday, then daily from 17-24 December.

Farmers’ Market: Sunday 10 December.

Redbourn Christmas Market: Sunday 3 December, 11am – 5pm redbournchristmasmarket.com.

Abbey Flyer Santa Special: Saturday 9 December.

Bring the children down for a special visit. www.abbeyline.org.uk For more details visit enjoystalbans.com/Christmas

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What’s on in Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 1-30 Dec Aladdin Aladdin dreams of fame. Will he fall into the clutches of the evil Norwegian pop mogul Sven Gali?

Or will he find true love? Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 1-24 Dec Santa Claus And The Christmas Adventure 2017 A truly unforgettable experience which includes the magical moment when snowflakes fall over the audience – a guaranteed white Christmas at every show. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 1 Dec - 28 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk A pantomime that scales new heights, with a spectacular stomping giant and all the magic and mayhem of a truly traditional Christmas extravaganza. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 2 Dec - 1 Jan Rapunzel Rapunzel longs to untangle herself from the hair-curling clutches of the cruel witch, Mother Gothel. But she is trapped in the tower of towers and hasn’t had a haircut in ages! Will Rapunzel escape? Where have all those mice come from?

And who will pull the enormous purple parsnip?! Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 4-Dec Ed Byrne: Spoiler Alert Come and watch as Byrne takes this question, turns it upside down and shakes it until the funny falls out. Go on, spoil yourself. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 6-Dec The Fitzrovia Radio Hour; A Christmas Carol The Dickens classic is reimagined as a live 1940s-style studio recording, which broadcasts live across the mighty British Empire.

Broadway Theatre, Eastcheap,

Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DD. 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com 7, 15 & 16 Dec Enchanted Christmas Gather a group of family, friends or work colleagues and get ready to dance the night away at an amazing festive party night! Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 7-8 Dec West End at Christmas ‘West End in Concert’ is back again this year with their hugely popular annual show, singing songs from the musicals. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org

7-Dec Young Marx 1850, and Europe’s most feared terrorist is hiding in Dean Street, Soho. Broke, restless and horny, the thirty-two-yearold revolutionary is a frothing combination of intellectual brilliance, invective, satiric wit, and child-like emotional illiteracy.

Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 8-31 Dec Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs This year’s extravaganza is set to be the fairest of them all with dynamic dance, sparkling costumes, sensational songs and barrels of audience participation.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 9 Dec - 6 Jan Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs The Rhodes Pantomime returns with a magical performance of ‘Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs’ in association with Phoenix Theatre Arts. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk

9 Dec - 14 Jan Cinderella King of comedy and pantomime legend Brian Conley is joined by celebrity fashion-guru Gok

Wan, who will work his wardrobe wonders as the Fairy Gokmother in the greatest pantomime of them all! Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 10-19 Dec The Nutcracker With its festive period setting, dancing snowfl akes and enchanting stage magic, Lev Ivanov’s 1892 ballet has become the perfect Christmas entertainment. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk

10-Dec Santa in Love A magical fun-filled Christmas show with sing-along songs and lots of interaction followed by a meet and greet with Santa that includes free presents for the children and photo opportunities!

Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 11-12 Dec A Christmas Carol 174 years after it was initially published, Dickens Christmas classic surprisingly remains as relevant as it has ever been, whilst keeping us entertained at this very special time of the year.

The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org

11-13 Dec Dear Santa Santa is determined to deliver the most fantastic Christmas present to our little hero Sarah.

But he doesn’t get it right straight away! With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally settles on something ‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve. Broadway Theatre Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DD. 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com 13-14 Dec Jason Byrne This year’s Xmas Comedy features the return of the brilliant Jason Byrne. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk 13-Dec Grandma Claus With a plan up her sleeve, a

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bit of help from her silly friend Twinkle Toes and a touch of magic, you never know what might happen around Grandma’s house...Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com

her Nutcracker, an army of mice attack her toys and the Nutcracker. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk

28 Dec - 7 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk 15-16 Dec Peter Pan Jack & the Beanstalk features The Darling familys life is all your favourite characters and changed forever when Peter Pan, plenty of well-known songs. The the boy who wouldn’t grow up, Court Theatre, Station Road, appears at their window one Tring, HP23 5QY night. Wendy, John and Michael www.courttheatre.co.uk follow Peter to Neverland,

meeting Lost Boys, mermaids MUSIC and crocodiles along the way!

6-Dec Palace Community Choir: The Place Theatre, Bradgate Songs from Oliver! at Christmas Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE The Palace Community Choir 01234 354321. invite you to join them as they www.theplacebedford.org sing a medley of songs from Lionel Bart’s ‘Oliver!’ the musical.

17-Dec Christmas Gothic Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Christmas: a time to remember Clarendon Road, Watford, the past, celebrate the present, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455, and look to the future. A time www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk of feasts and festivities, of holly

and mistletoe and a time of visits 9-Dec No Jacket Required and visitations. A time of ghosts.

Don’t miss this spectacular show Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s featuring a 12-piece band led Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. by frontman Dave Whitehouse, 01234 362337 who celebrates 20 years as the www.quarrytheatre.org.uk country’s leading Phil Collins

tribute vocalist. The Stables, 17-Dec Rudolph Rave Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, With a DJ on the decks playing MK17 8LU . 01908 280800 classic Christmas and party www.stables.org tunes, glow sticks, gallons of glitter, giant balloons, a spec11-Dec The Pictish Trail: Winter tacular laser-light display and a Rewind Acid Reflux Tour licensed bar for the big kids, this His extraordinary vocals reveal family-friendly party afternoon hidden depths and have been will make Christmas 2017 truly accompanied by everything from unforgettable for everyone. acoustic guitar to a full-on fourWatford Colosseum, Rickmanpiece metal band to throbbing sworth Road, Watford dance beats and samples – often WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102 during the course of the same www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk gig. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 18-Dec Little Red Riding Hood 280800. www.stables.org Packed full of silliness, a sassy heroine and sparkles, this is the 13-Dec Watford Philharmonic perfect introduction to panto Society for children aged 3+ and their Conductor Michael Cayton and families. The Place Theatre, Watford Philharmonic Society Bradgate Road, Bedford invite you to join in their annual MK40 3DE. 01234 354321 family celebration of Christmas, www.theplacebedford.org with music to get the festive season going with a bang!

18-24 Dec Stick Man Watford Colosseum, RickmanWhat starts off as a morning sworth Road, Watford jog becomes quite the misadWD17 3JN. 01923 571 102 venture for Stick Man: a dog www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk wants to play fetch with him, a

swan builds a nest with him, and 18-Dec Bootleg Blondie Christmas he even ends up on a fire! How Show will Stick Man ever get back to From the world-famous CBGB’s the family tree? The Stables, in New York to the Isle of Wight Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, festival, Bootleg Blondie have MK17 8LU . 01908 280800. earned their credentials on an www.stables.org international level. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, 22-24 Dec The Nutcracker MK17 8LU . 01908 280800 The Nutcracker ballet recounts www.stables.org the adventures of a young girl Clara the night before Christmas.

When Clara falls asleep with

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 21 Nov - 24 Dec ‘The Elegant Universe’ by Kim Major-George & Steve Thorp A collection of hand pulled prints by the established artist printmaker Kim Ma jor-George and connecting poetry by Steve Thorp. Hertford Theatre Gallery, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 27 Nov - 24 Dec Christmas Show All the Eagle Artists put on a show to remember - this time with added tinsel. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk

SPECIAL EVENTS 8-Dec Carols at the Castle Join the Mayor for ‘Carols at the Castle’. Mince pies and mulled wine will be served at the performance. Hertford Castle, The Castle, Hertford SG14 1HR 14-15 Dec French Market France at Home returns to put on a French Market in St Albans. The traders mostly come from different ‘departments’ in Normandy and offer a wide range of top quality products.

These are generally local and regional cheeses, bread freshly baked every day, patisserie products, olives and dried fruits, handbags, jewellery, Provençal soaps, and much more.

St Peter’s Street, St Albans www.franceathome.com

16-23 Dec St Saviour’s Church Christmas Tree Festival A beautiful Christmas event!

Come and see the church transformed into a winter wonderland by 90 sparkling Christmas trees.

The trees are all decorated on the theme of ‘Community at Christmas’ by local individuals and groups. 25 Sandpit Lane, St Albans. www.ssaviours.org

AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 16-Dec Hatfield House Antiques & Collectors’ Market Free admission and parking.

Superb atmosphere, very friendly. Full restaurant facility on site. A variety of quality stalls.

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17-Dec Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair Over 45 stalls offering a wide range of antiques from silver, quality jewellery, vintage, pictures, books, china, postcards and small furniture. Open 9.30am-4.00pm. Admission £1.50. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH. 01480 382432

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CAMBRIDGE

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

THE CHRISTMAS SCENE IN

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

SHOP AND SUPPORT! There’s lots of reasons to love Cambridge at Christmas, but it is the selection of independent businesses that keep us stomping the cobbled streets for hours come the festive season. This month, support the Cambridge independent scene by shopping for your last minute gifts at the many boutiques and stores that are situated in the heart of the city. Here’s my top pick of the must visit shops to purchase amazing presents for this festive season: Winsor Bishop 29-30 Trinity Street, City Centre, CB2 1TB For a beautiful gift to delight your loved one this Christmas head to Winsor Bishop; an independent jewellers based in Trinity Street. It stocks a large range of watches including well known luxury brands such as Tag Heuer and Rolex alongside stylish high end diamond, precious stone and pearl jewellery. www.winsorbishop.co.uk

Pick up gorgeous gifts in Cambridge.

Above; earrings from Cuckoo Clothing.

Right; Podarok on Bene’t Street

Lilac Rose 71 Bridge Street, Cambridge, CB2 1UR A women’s clothes, jewellery and accessories shop with a difference, offering quirky and must have gifts. With an eclectic collection of items in-store ranging from delightful unicorn snow globes to porcelain pug necklaces that make the perfect gifts for Christmas stockings. www.lilacrose.co.uk

Podarok 12 Bene’t Street, Cambridge, CB2 3PT This independent store is packed to the brim with Christmas present ideas with many of the products handmade by designers in Britain favouring alternative and special designs. Gifts include homeware items such as handmade table lamps, a wide selection of prints and beautiful handbags plus much more. www.podarok.co.uk

Bellina 8 Bridge Street, Cambridge, CB2 1UA Bellina is the perfect shop to pick up a tasty treat for all your friends and family. It was Cambridge’s first ever Belgium chocolate shop and has been open for over 30 years selling over 150 different varieties of delicious chocolate from mourish caramels to handmade truffles as well as the much loved chocolate Santa! www.chocolatehouse.co.uk

Cuckoo Clothing 4 St Mary’s Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PQ This award-winning boutique is the place to shop for gifts and clothes such as cosy jumpers that will make a great gift for your family members or yourself! You can also pick up some indulgent bath oil for a loved one who needs some pampering or gold jewellery to bring a smile to someone special’s face. www.cuckooclothing.co.uk

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Cambridge

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Fun festive events in CAMBRIDGESHIRE Written by Tracey Dean | www.traceydean.co.uk Have a merry Christmas with our guide to the best Christmas events in Cambridgeshire this December: Meet Father Christmas at Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, from 3 December Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, Lode Lane, Wicken, Ely, CB7 5XP Follow the trail at this charming National Trust nature reserve in search of Father Christmas! This memorable experience includes making crafts in the elves busy workshop and a magical meeting with the man in red himself! Price: Child ticket £9 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Cambridgeshire Christmas Crafts and Food Fair, 9-10 December The Arena Wood Green, London Road, Godmanchester, PE29 2NH The perfect place for Christmas shopping, this twoday fair has a wide selection of beautiful homemade cards and presents for your loved ones. Gifts include delicious Christmas treats, striking art and relaxing aromatherapy and candles plus much more. Tickets: Adults £3, accompanied children 16 and under free. www.oakleighfairs.co.uk/cambridgeshire-christmascrafts-food-fair-event-2017 Jingle Bell Christmas , Friday 15 December Cambridge Corn Exchange, 2 Wheeler St, Cambridge CB2 3QB Watch a host of West End stars belt out your favourite songs alongside the superb London Concert Orchestra. This Christmas music concert is guaranteed to have you feeling the festive cheer with all the classics. Tickets from £26.75. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, Sunday 24 December King College, King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1ST

This world famous Christmas Eve service takes place in the candle lit chapel at the prestigious Kings College. Tickets for this popular event are available by queuing, but be quick, the queue forms a day or so before the service. Those lucky enough to attend will hear the angelic voices of the choir as they sing traditional Christmas carols alongside readings from the bible. www.kings.cam.ac.uk Enchanted Cinema presents: A Christmas Film, Saturday 16 December The Robinson Theatre, Hills Road, Cambridge It wouldn’t be Christmas without watching a festive film or two, however this year you can make the experience extra magical with Enchanted Cinema’s Christmas Film Festival in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). Creating a cosy and festive atmosphere alongside a Christmas pop up café serving festive food such as mulled wine and mince pies, families can enjoy the likes of Frozen at 10am, an autism friendly screening of The Polar Express at 1pm, followed by Bridget Jones’ Diary at 4pm and Love Actually at 7pm. All profits will go to EACH. www.enchantedcinema.co.uk Peterborough Christmas Market Village, 18-23 December Surrounded by historic buildings and dazzling lights, the festive market rivals those found in Europe.

Made up of 14 pretty Christmas chalets and 30 traders in their German style huts, visitors can shop, eat and be merry! www.peterborough-christmas-market.co.uk Hark! The Herald – Carol Concert, 22 December Ely Cathedral, Ely As the big day draws closer, get into the spirit with a memorable evening of traditional Christmas carols and seasonal music in the magical setting of Ely Cathedral. The magnificent 30ft Christmas Tree and soaring voices of the Cathedral Choir creates a very special Christmas event for family and friends.

Price: Tickets £20, £16, and £10. Under 16s £10, £8, £5.tickets.elycathedral.org

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REGISTER NOW AND SHOP ’TILL YOU DROP! 7th February 2018 at the East of England Arena and Events Centre

2

018’s Peterborough Biscuit is setting up to be larger and the most inclusive Business Event in the region.

The Peterborough Biscuit is definitely breaking boundaries by the inclusion of local retailers into their 2018 event.

The retailers section will be called The Peterborough Biscuit Marketplace and will include the finest independent retailers in local area, the retailers vary from leather goods, to shoes, to dresses, to makeup, to takeaway.

So we have you covered for whatever you might want to buy, however if you are a retailer and want to join their lively marketplace then please inquire.

THE PETERBOROUGH BISCUIT BUSINESS EVENT HAS THREE MAIN AIMS: • To get as many different types of business from East Anglia in one place for one day so that they can showcase their high standards and diversity.

• To raise awareness and promote local business products and services • To improve local business knowledge by providing seminars from local Peterborough Business Champions who are leading, growing and innovating in real time and doing it now.

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What’s on in Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 30 Nov-3 Dec Oliver Twist Join local community group CAT Theatre company in a tale of a poor orphan named Oliver Twist!

The Maltings, Ely, CB7 4BB. 01353 662633. www.themaltingsely.org.uk 30 Nov - 7 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk The Trott family are down on their luck and need to make money...and fast! When Jack takes their beloved cow Daisy to market, all he gets for her are three measly beans. But these are no ordinary beans!

Jack wakes to find an enormous beanstalk slap-bang in the middle of his mum’s beloved vegetable patch. But his adventures are only just beginning!

Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 5-6 Dec This Evil Thing ‘This Evil Thing’, acclaimed at last years’ Edinburgh Festival, is the compelling, shocking and inspiring story of the men who said no to war, told by award-winning actor Michael Mears in a breath-taking display of vocal and physical dexterity.

Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ 01223 300085. www.corpusplayroom.com 5-31 Dec Rapunzel Expect a brush with danger, delight and dreadlocks as the much loved (pony) tale by the Brothers Grimm is given a fresh twist this Christmas. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 5-9 Dec Emma Pledging never to marry or fall in love, the mischievous Emma Woodhouse considers herself the ‘matchmaker of Highbury’. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com 7 Dec - 7 Jan Sleeping Beauty With everything you expect from a Key Theatre Pantomime, we return with an all singing, all

dancing month of music, madness! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 7-Dec Young Marx 1850, and Europe’s most feared terrorist is hiding in Dean Street, Soho. Broke, restless and horny, the thirty-two-year-old revolutionary is a frothing combination of intellectual brilliance, invective, satiric wit, and child-like emotional illiteracy. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 8-9 Dec The Magical Christmas Santa Show Combined with spectacular magical tricks, and sing-a-long Christmas songs for all the family, this show is the perfect Christmas treat! Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 300085. www.corpusplayroom.com 9-30 Dec Snow White The Cresset presents a truly magical production filled with joy, laughter, singing, dancing and festive fun. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough , PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 11-Dec The Nutcracker With its festive period setting, dancing snowflakes and enchanting stage magic, Lev Ivanov’s 1892 ballet has become the perfect Christmas entertainment, with Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous, sugar-spun music the most recognisable of all ballet scores. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 12-Dec A Christmas Carol Actor John O’Connor faithfully recreates Dickens’s famous performance of his best-loved ghost story. Come and enjoy a seasonal treat in the spirit of Christmas past, present and future. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk

13-Dec Boo Hewerdine Christmas Show Just for one evening let old family grudges and bugaboos subside and relax as this year’s cast of available entertainers delight you and then later send you out into the crisp Winter air, your heart as warm as a roasted chestnut. The Maltings, Ely, CB7 4BB. 01353 662633 www.themaltingsely.org.uk 13-Dec Boo Hewerdine Christmas Show Just for one evening let old family grudges and bugaboos subside and relax as this year’s cast of available entertainers delight you and then later send you out into the crisp Winter air, your heart as warm as a roasted chestnut. The Maltings, Ely, CB7 4BB. 01353 662633 www.themaltingsely.org.uk 15-Dec Carols By Candlelight In lavish period costume, and in front of an evocative candlelit setting, these charismatic performers perform favourites including carols, string medleys of familiar Xmas tunes, and seasonal surprises. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 15-Dec Sh!t Theatre: Muppets Xmas Carol Come sing-a-long to the best Christmas film ever! The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 16-17 Dec Aladdin Packed solid with comedy, excitement and adventure, the children will love to cheer their hero Aladdin and boo the Evil Abanazar. They will roar with laughter at the antics of Wishee Washee and Widow Twanky and gasp with amazement when the Genie appears. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 17-Dec The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom This live music, played by Britten Sinfonia, will accompany screenings of these two films. Together,

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they will form one hour-long event. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 22 Dec-14 Jan Beauty and the Beast ‘Beauty and the Beast’ is brought to you this Christmas by the spectacular KD theatre productions! The Maltings, Ely, CB7 4BB 01353 662633. www.themaltingsely.org.uk 30-31 Dec The Nutcracker St Petersburg Classical Ballet The timeless story of Clara, who is whisked away on a fairy tale adventure by her Nutcracker Prince, is set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious score. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk MUSIC 4-Dec Nelly Diamond Selling, multi-platinum, Grammy award-winning rap superstar, Nelly, returns to the U.K. for a massive 15-date nationwide tour. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 5-Dec Christmas Rat Pack Drift back in time to the glamorous, glitzy nights of Vegas in the company of three of the world’s most popular entertainers and experience Frank, Sammy and Dean performing at the famous Sands hotel with the fabulous Burrelli Sisters and The Rat Pack Big Band. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 6-Dec Bad Manners Bad Manners with support from punk legend Max Splodge on their Christmas tour + Big 10 (+ DJ Jesse James). The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 7-Dec Christmas with The Overtones The Overtones Christmas tour has become a staple fixture in everyone’s Christmas party season and 2017 will be no different.

Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 7-Dec Dr Feelgood Dr. Feelgood are one of the most popular and exciting live rhythm and blues acts in the world, thrilling crowds with their uncompromising sound and vitality. The Junction, Clifton Way Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511

www.junction.co.uk 15-Dec The Fiver A longstanding Cambridge Junction event offering emerging bands the opportunity to play on the J1 stage. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 15-Dec Jingle Bell Christmas It’s high-kicks for Christmas as The Jingle Belles® join the London Concert Orchestra, Capital Voices and West End stars for all your favourite Christmas hits.

Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 16-Dec Ezio Deep, honest, emotional songs that hit a raw nerve. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 16-Dec White Christmas May your celebrations be magical, merry and bright with this nostalgic show of all-time favourite Christmas songs and carols. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 22-Dec The Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club With a primetime slot on BBC 6 Music for over 10 years now and performing at a range of festivals and events over the UK, there really is nothing stopping him spreading his love for Funk & Soul! The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 14 Nov - 14 Jan Hugo Dalton: the revival lightdrawings The artist Hugo Dalton will be projecting his dramatic lightdrawings onto sculptures in the Greece and Rome Gallery. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB 01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 8-23 Dec Christmas Cracker 2017 Picture, sculpture, handmade original print, jewellery and craftwork. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk 16-Dec Life Drawing See the special exhibition Degas: a passion for perfection, then draw a real dancer in the studio with artist Lauren Clemmet.

For ages 5-7. £8 per child. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB

01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 17-Dec Matisse Selling Exhibition: Original Lithographs The Christmas exhibition will feature over 40 original lithographs from Henri Matisse.

Babylon Gallery, Waterside, Ely, CB7 4AU. 01353 616991 www.babylonarts.org.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 2, 9, 16 & 23 Dec Wimpole Christmas Wreath Making Workshop Using materials from Wimpole Estate, get stuck in this Christmas and make your own Wreath, guided by the expertise of the Gardens team - all materials included. Booking essential.

Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston, SG8 0BW. 0344 2491895. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 5-7 & 12-14 Dec A Wimpole Christmas Follow the Christmas explorer path through the gardens and see if you can jingle a bell or two; book onto one of the short tours of the Hall or Farm. Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston, Cambridgeshire SG8 0BW. 0344 2491895. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 9-10 Dec Cambridgeshire Christmas Crafts & Food Fair A wide range of Christmas and seasonal goodies including art, craft, design, food and drink.

10am-4pm. Wood Green, Godmanchester, PE29 2NH. 01206 263088. www.oakleighfairs.co.uk 16-Dec Tree Planting Day Don’t miss joining in special Forest for Peterborough tree planting days this season! Calling is advised on the day, as events may be cancelled due to poor weather conditions or finish early due to all trees being planted.

Nene Valley Community Centre, Candy Street, Peterborough, PE2 9RE. 07715 372432 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 3-Dec Great Chishill Antiques & Vintage Fair Approximately 20 stalls packed full of antiques, collectables and vintage items to entice dealers, collectors and the general public.

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10-Dec The Ely Antiques and Collectables Fair New to Ely, antiques and collectors fair with a good mixture of items from a range of eras.

About 16 stalls Opens 10am.

Entrance £1. Centre E, 24 Barton Road, Ely CB7 4DE 07583 809222

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The Essex Gift Guide

10 Gift Ideas for Christmas Presents from Essex!

Article courtesy of Visit Essex

Christmas seems to come around more quickly each year, no sooner have you put away the Christmas tree and decorations, and you have to get them out again!

But Christmas in Essex is a wonderful time of year, with many events to attend, and Santa’s Grottos all over the county.

Choosing gifts for your loved ones can be difficult, so Visit Essex to the rescue! From gift vouchers to wine, knitted socks to hampers, we have that perfect gift for everyone.

1. Talking of wine – Essex has around 15 vineyards

throughout the county, and three of them produce the most amazing wine and have wine shops open weekdays and weekends (check times), for the general public to choose from. Newhall Vineyard in Purleigh for example, does wonderful ‘bubbles’ champagne in all but name - Newhall Sparkling Brut.

They have a Wine Sale over the weekend of 1 and 2 December too, opening up a wonderful Christmas themed barn (complete with Santa’s Grotto), and

offering mulled wine and mince pies to all for free!

West Street Vineyard and Dedham Vale Vineyard, also offer great wines from their Cellar shops.

2.

There’s a bit of a craze on Gin at the moment, and it’s certainly having its heyday, so you can’t have Christmas without a Gin produced in the county.

Wilkins of Tiptree have teamed up with local gin producer Hayman’s, to produce wonderful fruit Gin liquers - Little Scarlet, Damson, Raspberry and their newest addition, Rhubarb. All taste great, and can be sipped, shaken or stirred! Orders can be taken online as well as being available throughout the county in their Tearooms, and in the newest addition to their portfolio, the Tiptree Café, Patisserie and Shop, in Bond Street shopping complex, Chelmsford.

3. Looking for something a bit different that will suit all ages? How about being a ‘Keeper for the Day’ at Colchester Zoo? Feed the meerkats, elephants, penguins and more, on an exciting day out at one of Europe’s largest zoos. You can grab a voucher online or from the zoo shop.

ESSEX to keyrings, jute bags to t-shirts – their friends will be ‘well jel’! You can even book a ‘TOWIE’ tour – a Virgin ‘experience’ day for two.

9.

Vouchers are always great, especially for children, where they get to choose the perfect gift after the festivities have died down. Vouchers can be brought from a variety of shops in the malls across Essex, including Intu Lakeside, The Victoria Shopping Centre Southend, Clacton Factory Shopping Outlet, High Chelmer Chelmsford and Freeport Braintree.

4. Need something for the man in your life?

They could be a ‘Brewer for the Day’ at Brentwood Brewing Company or Billericay Brewery - sampling the many fabulous ales, pouring a pint and even producing their own beer - this really would be a fabulous present!

5. And for the Ladies….a voucher for one of the

county’s wonderful Spas – how about Lifehouse at Thorpe-le-Soken, Greenwoods in Stock or Stoke-byNayland Hotel & Spa – all offer relaxation and provide luxurious treatments, in beautiful surroundings. Go on, they deserve a treat!

6. A treat for Mum and Dad – book a stay at one

10. Don’t forget to delve into some of the Craft

Centres throughout the county too. Barleylands, which is home to more than 60 studios where you can see Crafters in action and join classes, and Blake House which is a pretty centre with individual shops, set in listed and restored farm buildings, to name a couple. Many sell hand-made gifts such as pottery, clothing, glass and other unique pieces.

Shopping in Essex for Christmas is easy, peasey – so no excuses for not buying that perfect gift!

Check out the Visit Essex website www.visitessex.com for lots more inspiration.

of the Milsom Group’s hotels – choose from Maison Talbooth (which includes use of their all year round heated outdoor pool) and looks out on to the wonderful Dedham Vale and Constable Country, or Milsoms – a Bar and Brasserie with rooms, just down the road from Le Talbooth, a fine-dining restaurant where they can enjoy exquisitely designed, award-winning food.

7. Next up, membership of the Essex Wildlife Trust – their mantra – ‘if you love it, protect it’ – and you can for as little as £1.50 per week (suggested contribution). There are 87 reserves throughout the county, and 11 visitor centres. The visitor centres hold many events and provide inspiring days out, plus information about our wonderful wildlife. Go wild in Essex!

8. For that TOWIE fan there is no end of merchandise you can purchase – yes really! From suitcases

Santa at Colchester Zoo

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What’s on in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 25 Nov - 14 Jan Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Starring panto favourites Dale Superville and Antony Stuart-Hicks, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs promises to be a treat for the whole family – a memory to last all year! Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 29 Nov - 7 Jan Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Expect a sensational cast, energetic dance routines, top class live music, plenty of cringe-worthy gags and a heap of audience participation.

Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 30 Nov - 7 Jan Beauty and the Beast Beauty and the Beast has it all – sparkling sets, colourful costumes, tunes that you all know, lots of laughter and most importantly plenty of audience participation. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 1-31 Dec Peter Pan: The Magical Pantomime Adventure!

Join Wendy, Michael and John as they take off to Neverland with the boy who never grows up- Peter Pan. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 3-Dec Christmas with Katherine Jenkins Start your Christmas celebration in style with singing sensation Katherine Jenkins, as she performs a magnificent concert of seasonal music and songs. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 3-Dec Jason Byrne Jason has three brains which kick into action when he hits the stage. His left brain scans the audience and room, looking for improv moments. His right brain collates stand-up material

and stunts, poised to dish out the funnies at speed. His centre brain is Jason’s coach, pushing him to the limit. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-onSea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 5-Dec The Nutcracker A young girl’s enchanted present leads her on a wonderful Christmas adventure in beautiful classical ballet, danced to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score.

Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 6-Dec Jethro - The Bull and Bonkers Tour A memorable evening of hysterical nonsense, as we take a peek into the circus lurking deep within the mind of, probably the greatest, comic storyteller ever to grace the stage.

Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 6-23 Dec ‘Twas the night before Christmas Leave your shoes and slippers by the fireplace and settle down to hear one child’s story about the night they met a certain twinkly eyed, round-bellied chap! This unique experience will get everyone, young and old, peering a little further into the sky this Christmas Eve. Rainham Hall, The Broadway, Rainham, RM13 9YN www.queens-theatre.co.uk

Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 9 Dec - 1 Jan Beauty & The Beast This year’s festive treat will include plenty of audience participation, modernsongs to sing along to, huge amounts of laughter and a great story to ensure that everyone leaves with a smile on their face.

Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 13-16 Dec Oh Yes It Is With made up special effects, inventive costumes and spontaneous musical dance routines, the theatre takes you on a wild ride into pantoland!

Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 15-24 Dec Santa’s Polka Dot Pirate The show is a fun packed festive experience for children aged 2-6 which will make them laugh, encourage them to get involved and sing their favourite songs as well as meeting Santa and receiving a gift from him. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com

6-9 Dec Habeas Corpus This has all the ingredients of a classic farce, spiced with the warmth and humanity of Alan Bennett’s razor-sharp wit.

Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk

15-Dec A Christmas Carol Actor John O’Connor faithfully recreates Dickens’ famous performance of his best-loved ghost story. Come and enjoy a seasonal treat in the spirit of Christmas past, present and future. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk

7-Dec Paul Chowdhry Live Innit Following his 2015 sell-out tour, comedy powerhouse and star of Taskmaster, Live at The Apollo and Stand Up for the Week, Paul Chowdhry brings his highly anticipated new stand-up show to venues nationwide. Palace

16 Dec - 7 Jan Jack and The Beanstalk With a spectacular 3D sequence transporting audiences to the Giant’s magical kingdom, larger-than-life special effects, huge laughs, magnificent musical numbers and lashings

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of audience participation, Essex’s own Lee Mead and Stacey Solomon, together with comedian Bobby Davro and actor Robin Askwith will deliver another spectacular Southend pantomime of giant proportions.

Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 20-23 Dec The Christmas Show A variety of spectacular.

West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 21-30 Dec Snow Play What would you do if one year Winter decided to stay and moved into your house? Well that’s what happens in the snowy spectacular show where you are guaranteed a white Christmas, no matter what the weather or the time of year!

Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 23-Dec Santa’s Christmas Wish Join a fun, festive, musical adventure to give Santa the very best Christmas, then meet him at his home in the North Pole!

Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY 01376 556 354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com 30 Dec - 1 Jan Aladdin Packed with all of the traditional ingredients family audiences expect, this all singing and dancing youth production of Aladdin features laugh out loud comedy, magical special effects, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and cheers! West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clactonon-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk MUSIC 8-Dec Christmas with the Overtones Celebrating the most wonderful time of the year, with a stocking rammed full of Christmas crackers, in the shape of good ol’ classics such as ‘White Christmas’, ‘Santa Claus Is Coming To Town’ and ‘Let It Snow’, Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 11-Dec Christmas Classics With Blake Join Brit-Award winning vocalists BLAKE for their celebrated Christmas show, featuring festive songs in

beautiful trio harmony, video projections & the group’s famous fast-paced comedy banter.

Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 13-Dec Christmas Variety Show Join singers Jeff and Sue Short, their musicians and guests for a relaxing afternoon of festive fun featuring all your favourite Christmas songs and more!

Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 15-Dec Frankie’s Guys – Oh What a Night!

A celebration of ‘Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, is a fast paced, energetic production with an authentic live concert feel. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 21-23 Dec Larry Berkovitz and Zak Barrett Xmas Jazz Night As played to wildly enthusiastic audiences, the hugely popular ‘Xmas Jazz Night’ returns with another special programme packed with great antics and fun Jazz guaranteed to land you in a festive mood. Cramphorn Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 18 Nov - 24 Dec Angela Harding Original Prints alongside a variety of ceramics and more.

Hayletts Gallery, 2 High Street, Maldon, CM9 5PJ. 01621 851669 www.haylettsgallery.com 25 Nov-22 Dec If It Starts To Fall, Move Out Of The Way An exhibition by artist Finn Thompson (STAIR). Gibberd Gallery, The Water Gardens, Harlow, CM20 1WG. 01279 446404 www.gibberdgallery.co.uk 2 Dec - 25 Mar When Barfield Moved to Saffron Walden The inaugural exhibition at The Fry’s new second home, Fry Gallery Too. Artists in Saffron Walden from the 1960s to 1980s.

The Fry Art Gallery, Castle Street, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1BD. 01799 513779 www.fryartgallery.org SPECIAL EVENTS 6 Nov - 24 Dec The German Christmas Market Enjoy German beer, Gluhwein and to soak-up the festive

atmosphere & enjoy the traditional German market stalls.

Meadows Croft Garden Centre, Woodham Road, Battlesbridge, Wickford, SS11 7QU. 01245 320314 23 Nov - 6 Jan Christmas Tree Display at RHS Garden Hyde Hall Local Women’s Institute members return to RHS Hyde Hall to adorn Christmas trees with hand-crafted decorations.

Hyde Hall, Creephedge Lane, Rettendon, Chelmsford, CM3 8ET 01245 400256. www.rhs.org.uk/ gardens/hyde-hall 2-24 Dec Winter Wonderland at Riverside Ice and Leisure The sparkling ice rink will be decked in festive cheer and young visitors will have the very special chance to meet Father Christmas in his grotto.

Riverside Ice & Leisure Centre, Victoria Road, Chelmsford, CM1 1FG. 01245 615050 7-8 Dec Wreath Making Workshop at Audley End House and Gardens Get into the festive spirit at the wreath making workshop at Audley End House and Gardens.

Create a wreath from a range of materials sourced from the estate. Lunch and all materials are included. Audley End, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JF 0370 333 1181. www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley 9-Dec Burnham Christmas Street Fayre Enjoy a variety of festive stalls, entertainment and food and drink. Town Centre, Burnham-on-Crouch, CM0 8 www.visitmaldondistrict.co.uk 9-10, 16-17 & 23 Dec Festive Day Out With Thomas at East Anglian Railway Museum Thomas and Friends pay a festive visit to the East Anglian Railway Museum. Chappel Station, Colchester, CO6 2DS www.earm.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 3-Dec Essex Antiques & Collectables Fair Items such as stamps, barometers, ephemera, militaria and more.. Open 9.30am - 3.30pm.

Entry £1. Ingatestone Community Centre, 7 High Street, CM4 9ED. 07780 971214 1-Jan Essex Absofab Vintage, Collectors and Antiques Fabulous stalls offering you a wide range of Vintage, curios, Retro, collectables from over 25 stands. 11am to 4pm. Entry £1.

St. John’s Church Hall, High Road, Buckhurst Hill

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