Eastlife January 2018 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

eastlife FR

www.eastlife.co.uk

Living life in the East

January 2018

Take a bite of the biscuit.. at The Peterborough Biscuit

the largest business event of the eastern region 7th February

The GLC. Power and finesse combined. Showcasing 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.

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. Model featured is GLC 220 d 4MATIC Sport at £38,820 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. 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 12/17.

The best or nothing.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 769676

East Life DPS GLC .indd 1

Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401100

Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307

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 to 56.5 mpg combined with CO2 emissions as low as 129 g/km. And, with an on-the-road price starting at ÂŁ38,820, experience it for yourself at your nearest Robinsons Mercedes-Benz retailer.

Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751000

Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900

www.yourmercedes.co.uk

12/12/2017 12:58

PUBLISHER - Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696

EDITOR - Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904

PRODUCTION MANAGER/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Paul Balaam paul@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142

SOCIAL MEDIA - Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539

WEB DEVELOPER - Ben Attenborough ben@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 777070

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

Special thanks to our contributors Abby Knight, Gerla De Boer, Nicola Osborne, Sue Cooke, Tracey Dean, Collette Hoefkens, Ruby Reed, Liz Mattock, Georgie Gilding, Amanda French, Ruth Essex 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.

editor

From the

Dear Reader, Happy New Year! January is a time to start fresh, which is why we’ve given our pages a little makeover – we hope you like it! If you’ve decided to give yourself an overhaul in the New Year, be it your health, home or style then we have plenty of ideas to keep you on track. From new hobbies and sporting activities to updating the home on a budget, we have it covered. If like me, and many others, you’ve pledged to join the vegan bandwagon in 2018, read our guide to the best restaurants on page 50. After the Christmas hype, January can make us feel rather down so get away from it all with our guide to North Norfolk and the best spas for a detox. There’s also plenty of events and days out to keep you busy – no January blues here! Here’s to a fabulous 2018!

Emma Kemsley

Find us on online: /eastlifemag

@eastmagazines

@eastlifemag

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11-15 NEWS FLASH

A round-up of monthly news and events

17-21 THE GREAT ESCAPE A guide to travelling the North Norfolk coast

23-25 WINTER SPAS

Beat the January blues with a spa break

35 DOG-FRIENDLY Tails About Town

37 LITTLE EAST Mum’s the Word

41-45 EDUCATION School open days

49-55 FOOD & DRINK

News, the Cambridge Foodie, cosy pubs and veganism 57-63 HEALTH Hobbies, five-star gyms and how to choose a care home

67-69 FASHION

Winter whites and 2018 trends

71 WEDDINGS

Save the date - the region’s best wedding exhibitions

Contents

January 2018

81-99 INTERIORS

2018 interior trends, gardens and how to sell your property

103-105 ARTS

Monthly column and the latest news

107-111 ESSEX

Events in Colchester & listings

113-119 SUFFOLK

Saxmundham, Stowmarket & events

137 121-127 NORFOLK

Secret Norfolk - what’s on in 2018?

129-135 BEDS, BUCK & HERTS

Milton Keynes, Hertford & Ware

137-145 CAMBRIDGESHIRE Cambridge Scene, Peterborough celebrations and theatre listings eastlife.co.uk

FLAME Inspired by the freedom of light, Winsor Bishop’s expert craftsman have captured the delicate beauty of the gentle flame. From concept to creation, this stunning design has been nurtured to reflect Winsor Bishop’s passion for style, elegance and everlasting dedication to excellence. Necklace £3,750 Earrings £2,500 Ring £2,500

39-43 London Street, Norwich NR2 1HU 01603 620638 enquiries@winsorbishop.co.uk

winsorbishop.co.uk

29-30 Trinity Street, Cambridge CB2 1TB 01223 675400 cambridge@winsorbishop.co.uk

HB.Eastlife.240x168.indd 1

12/12/2017 11:47

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Around the region

Eastlife Diary £10m Revamp of historic Colchester hotel Harwich-based developer Flying Trade Group, behind the Surya Hotels brand, has got the green light for a £10m refurbishment and expansion of the George Hotel site in Colchester, including a complete refurbishment of the 47 bedroom existing hotel and plans to convert nearby St Nicholas House into a 44 bedroom hotel.

7th January SAVE THE DATE

Enjoy a guided two-mile walk with or without a dog around Hinchingbrooke Country Park, Huntingdon. The event is organised by BRoW4 in aid of dog charities. Registration is £10 and includes hot refreshments.

Live Well! Get your head in a better place in 2018, with a visit to The Royals Shopping Centre, Southend, on Saturday 27 January. Between 11am and 4pm, you’ll find a wealth of inspiration to help you set out on a new path to wellness. Throughout the day there are interactive yoga sessions, opportunities to discuss your fitness goals with personal trainers and try a range of therapies, including Reflexology and Reiki.

The Enormous Room ‘The Enormous Room’ from Stopgap Dance Company returns next February with a stop at DanceEast, Ipswich on 23 February at 7.30pm. Featuring David Toole, whose achievements and skills as a disabled performer have been widely influential, plus newcomer Hannah Sampson as a father and daughter living through their own, very different experiences of grief. www.danceeast.co.uk

The Best of WHAM! A brand new concert show is coming to the Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich on 27 January 2018. Featuring the best of George, Andrew, Pepsi and Shirlie, with sensational vocals, choreography, costumes and a live band. The best of WHAM! includes all the hits, a few B side favourites and a couple of early George Michael bonus songs.

NEW! The Great British Beer Festival Winter CAMRA will launch the first Great British Beer Festival Winter at the Friary Halls in Norwich from 20-24 February. Pubs across the city will be taking part in the celebration, hosting Fringe events from the 1-24 February which include everything from stand-up comedy to music nights and pub quizzes.

Download the new Visit Cambridge app and discover the latest information about attractions, shopping, dining options and events. It’s available for free on iPhone and Android smartphones.

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Bury St. Edmunds t: 01284 752804 | Ipswich t: 01473 253164 | glasswells.co.uk NEW LOOK STORES. NEW LOOK PRODUCTS. NEW LOOK DISPLAYS. NEW LOOK YOU!

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Around the region Horror-on-Sea returns to Southend, Essex Taking place at the Park Inn by Radisson Palace Hotel on Southend’s seafront, Horror-on-Sea returns to the seaside town for its sixth year, from 19-18 January.

Still from The Mountain King

The event celebrates the horror genre and gives up-and-coming writers, directors, producers and actors an opportunity to showcase their work to a knowledgeable and enthusiastic audience.

Spawned by local film aficionado and movie industry insider, Paul Cotgrove, the festival now receives submissions from across the world, with America, Europe, India and Brazil represented amongst the 30 feature films and around 40 shorts. Unlike the fate of many characters in the films, tickets for Horror-on-Sea won’t cost moviegoers an arm and a leg. Prices start at just £6 per film, from £20 for a Day Pass and, for serious fans, a Weekend Pass - that gets you into everything for just £60 for the first weekend (19-21 January) and £40 for the second (26-28 January). For a full list of all the films and booking details check out www.horror-on-sea.com.

Celebrate Burns Night on the Suffolk Coast Burns Night celebrations at the White Lion Hotel on Aldeburgh’s seafront are legendary – so good, that this year they will be held twice! The traditional evening, which takes place on the poet’s birthday 25 January, will be repeated over Sunday lunch on 28 January, for those who couldn’t make the weekday event. Expect an evening of traditional Scottish entertainment with a piper leading in the haggis and a Scottish toastmaster giving a dramatic rendition of Burns’ ‘Address to a Haggis’, followed by toasts involving generous amounts of whisky and Gaelic entertainment. The event will be finished with a three-course meal. The Burns Night dinner and lunch are £32 per person including the three-course meal, entertainment and a tot of whisky. Reserve a table at www.whitelion.co.uk.

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Learn to create the magic of Indian Cookery Was it your New Year’s resolution to learn something new or improve your cooking skills? Or perhaps you just want to have some fun while learning a new skill, if so then book a course at Crafting Curries in Peterborough. A hands-on cooking experience, for beginners and experienced cooks, owner Cathy George aims to teach you how to use spices to create authentic Indian food. There’s a range of classes to choose from including South Indian vegetarian on 27 January, Flavours of Kerala on 10 February, Indian street food on 17 February, Indian vegan on 10 March and currying through India on 24 March. Further 2018 dates will be available soon. To book visit www.craftingcurries.co.uk

The Script announce Forest Live dates The Script, have announced dates for 2018 as part of Forest Live, the summer concert series organised by the Forestry Commission. The chart toppers will be taking to the stage at Thetford Forest on Thursday 7 June. Tickets priced from £42.50 are now on sale at www.forestry.gov.uk/music Income generated from ticket sales helps look after the nation’s forests for people to enjoy and wildlife to thrive.

Red Rooster announces first acts One of Suffolk’s favourite music festivals, Red Rooster, has announced its first line up of artists, including the Friday night headliner, Pokey LaFarge; an American roots, blues and swing artist. Now in its fourth year, the festival returns to Euston Hall from 31 May – 2 June. Visitors can experience the Deep South with a weekend of RnB, Americana, Blues, Soul, Roots and Country music, food and culture. Alabama 3 acoustic will be headlining the Thursday night, Red Rooster favourites Daddy Long Legs return, and there will be performances by Jonathan Toubin and his New York Night Train Soul Clap & Dance Off, plus a debut from Texas-based songwriters Brennen Leigh and Noel McKay, to name a few.

©ThomasBaltes

There will also be an array of fun activities for kids including crafts and traditional country-style. Tickets are on sale priced from £59.50. www.redrooster.org.uk

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THE CONTROL TOWER

- a unique vegetarian Bed and Breakfast with a generous helping of history The Control Tower on the former RAF North Creake Airfield was built in WWII for Bomber Command secret operations. Today it has been lovingly renovated with art deco furniture, from beds to bathtubs. Four comfortable double rooms with period en suite bathrooms, DAB radios, and treats like tea grown in Cornwall, fresh coffee and delicious biscuits. The guest lounge is available in the evenings to relax in with games to enjoy and glasses if you want to avail of the free corkage. A delicious fully cooked vegetarian breakfast awaits you each morning full of local goodies – from Whin Hill single variety apple juice to Bonallack granola. All just 10 minutes from Wells-next-the-Sea.

We are offering Eastlife Magazine readers the opportunity to book a 2 night stay with us from 1 January to 23 March 2018 with 25% off the normal room price. Quote ELCTHQ18 when booking. Subject to availability and must be taken as two consecutive nights.

Bunkers Hill, Egmere, Walsingham, Norfolk NR22 6AZ

01328 821 574

mail@controltowerstays.com www.controltowerstays.com Proud to be listed as a Special Place to Stay in Alastair Sawday’s

Sheringham Cottages

NorTh NorFoLk CoAST

 Local family run business  Six delightful 4 star / families welcome graded holiday properties sleeping from 2 to 15 in Sheringham  Foresters, Augusta & Madge are all rated suitable for wheelchair users by Visit England, as well as being great for families  Superb quiet location. Blue flag beach, shops, family pubs, theatre and 18-hole golf course all within 200 metres  Free use of local leisure centre, inc. swim and gym, Sky TV, sports and movies, Wi-fi, gardens and off road parking  Free pick up from Sheringham train & bus station

Trevor Claydon 01263 577560 www.sheringhamcottages.com

A Great British Break Written by Emma Kemsley

arning! You’re going to want to book a trip to Norfolk by the end of this article. Discover the very best of this fine county…

As the end of year tourism stats filled my inbox last month, something became clear, Norfolk is no longer a well kept secret. Everybody wants a part of this little corner of the UK, and why not? It’s bold, beautiful and offers everything you could want from a short break. A study by Virgin Holidays recently revealed that it takes us until the age of 31 to really get the most from a holiday, with foodie experiences, whale watching, museums and art galleries and wine tasting being the top five things we most want to do on holiday. Swap whales for seals (though you may spot one if you’re lucky), and Norfolk ticks all of the boxes. No longer considered a destination for retirees and families with their buckets and spades, Norfolk is having a moment; its tourism economy is now estimated at more than £3billion. With its Instagram worthy locations, farm to fork initiatives and luxury accommodation, it’s clear to see why it’s fast becoming the go-to destination for thirty-something couples, city dwelling families and millennials. Thanks to this new flourish of tourism, Norfolk’s property market has gone from strength to strength with a demand for second homes and holiday rentals. No stranger to Norfolk’s charm, I wanted to see what was captivating the rest of the UK so I packed my bags and headed to the North Norfolk coast to explore with my tourist hat firmly on – a woolly hat at that, it was freezing!

A place to stay There’s no shortage of accommodation in Norfolk, perhaps that’s one of its main appeals. Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, family or group of friends, there’s something to suit all requirements and budgets. For my base on the coast I chose David’s Barn, a luxury two bed barn in Langham, a short distance from Blakeney. Full of character and charm, the spacious home was ideal for my husband and I and our two friends who joined us, plus our dogs who needless to say enjoyed the lovely beach walks. The open plan kitchen and living area made cooking and socialising enjoyable, cold evenings were spent sipping wine in front of the fire and laughing with friends. The added bonus of a log burner and underfloor

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heating was just what we needed after exploring the nearby coastal towns of Blakeney and Cley-next-the-Sea. A good local welcoming pub was just two minutes walk away. With its cobbled exterior, high ceiling, beams and modern features, the property delivered everything I wanted for the idyllic Norfolk getaway I had envisioned – I really didn’t want to leave! This is just one of the many properties available at one the country’s newest luxury holiday rental agencies; SALT, which specialises in boutique retreats along the coast and up to five miles inland. However, it’s not just beautiful converted barns which makes Norfolk top of the accommodation list. Dotted along the coastline you can find yourself living like a Lord or Lady with a night in a manor house or detoxing at a yoga retreat. There’s plenty of quirky rentals with a story to tell such as the Hippisely Hut in Old Hunstanton, the birthplace of wireless interception during World War I or The Control Tower; a former RAF tower but now a quirky art deco inspired vegetarian bed and breakfast just three miles from Wells-next-the-Sea.

Road trip Make the most of a weekend in North Norfolk with a dual stay along the coast. After a two night stay in Langham, I swapped my luxury barn for the heights of Cley Windmill. A non-profit organisation, the windmill features eight bed and breakfast rooms, six inside the mill and two outside. I stayed in the cosy dog-friendly self-catering Dovecote Cottage, opposite the mill. For something a little different choose the Wheel Room which has a ladder entrance – warning though, it gets booked up fast! Cley Windmill is the perfect base for those looking to enjoy long walks along the water’s edge or experience the classic charms of a true Norfolk coastal village. From the windmill wander through the cobbled alleyways to the village centre where you’ll find an antique store, bookshop, the Pinkfoot Gallery, pottery shop Made in Cley and of course the famous Cley Smokehouse.

David’s Barn Above and right

FACT FILE

David’s Barn, sleeps 4 people in 2 bedrooms and allows up to two dogs. Price: From £775 per week or £581 for a 3 night short break. SALT, www.saltnorfolk.co.uk | T. 01328 887600 Cley Windmill, Cley-next-the-Sea, Holt, Norfolk NR25 7RP Price: From £159 per night www.cleywindmill.co.uk | T: 01263 740209

Cley windmill interior

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It was quite easy to eat and drink my way along the coastline. I sampled local gins (Black Shuck Gin being my favourite) at a number of pub stops. Make sure a visit to the King’s Head in Letheringsett is on your list. Cosy corners, soft buttery leather arm chairs and an impressive selection of local alcohol made it the perfect pub! The Vogue covered wallpaper in the toilets was a nice touch too! Kings Head, Holt

When hunger strikes head back to the windmill for a feast at its restaurant. The evening set menu (priced £32.50) changes daily using the best of local produce where possible. Highlights this month include a Cley Smokehouse peppered mackerel salad and Norfolk venison. Reservations are also open to non-guests.

Tuck in It’s Norfolk’s fine produce that makes the county a foodie’s paradise. In a time where we are becoming more inquisitive about where our food comes from we praise restaurants that focus on using fresh local ingredients. And it comes no fresher than in Norfolk. The coastal and country location means you won’t have to travel far to find seasonal seafood or produce. During our visit we tucked into oysters, mussels and a seafood platter at Season’s in Wells-next-the-Sea; a rustic style sea front restaurant.

Burnham Market served up tea and cake and I spied the new opening of No. Twenty 9 Bar and Restaurant, on the main green. New to the village’s food scene this spring, opening at the end of February is Socius. The restaurant will open its doors at one of the Foundry Place retail units. Co-owners Dan Lawrence and Natalie Stuhler have taken their years of catering experience to create a restaurant which will be a culinary delight. The open kitchen will allow diners to watch preparation, before tucking into locally sourced produce which will change with the seasons. Socius will offer both main meals as well as a modern version of British tapas allowing diners to be able to sample the very best of Norfolk’s specialities. Operations director Natalie said: “People are happy to travel for food. Norfolk has become a foodie hub.” I couldn’t agree more. Norfolk has something to suit all tastes. From Sunday lunches at a country pub and Cromer’s crab (try cooking your own on a hot stone at Hot Rocks) to fancy coffee at stylish bistros and fine dining options – what’s not to love! For those self-catering or looking to take a piece of Norfolk home, stop by Gurneys Fish Shop in Burnham Market or Back to the Garden in Holt.

Left: Food at Socius

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South American Animal Adventure

American Animal UnderAdventure 4’s

Explore the Amazona in Cromer

go FREE

Braziliant value: Admission still at 2014 prices!!

Amazona Zoo Rainforest Springs logo

amazonazoo.co.uk stay with us at cromercamping.com check website for opening times

South American Animal Adventure

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. Visit our website to download a 10% off voucher today

WWW.PLATTENSFISHANDCHIPS.CO.UK FIND US

Platten’s Fish & Chips, Quayside, Wells-Next-The-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AH

Plattensfishandchips

01328 711 249

@Plattens_Wells

Terms & conditions apply.

Plattensfishchips

Socius

We Love Norfolk It’s not just the five-star accommodation and some of the best food in the UK that makes this part of East Anglia a tourist hotspot. Throw into the mix the option of water sports such as paddle boarding and surfing, wildlife tours, art galleries and wine tasting and you can see why there’s no need to jet off to European shores. That’s the beauty of this fine county, it appeals to all. Whether you’re seeking adventure, have a family to entertain or want to enjoy a Champagne and oyster lifestyle, it’s waiting in Norfolk! “North Norfolk is a stunning area of the UK, and it’s easy to see why the region is fast becoming one of the most sought-after holiday destinations,” says Victoria Schofield, area manager for Norfolk at cottages.com. “Over the past couple of years, the region has seen a constant growth in tourism, with average bookings per property increasing by over 25 per cent in Fakenham, Horning and Dereham, between 2015 and 2017.” With the possibility of bumping into famous faces and maybe even royalty (I celeb spotted a very well-known radio and television presenter), there’s never been a better time for a spontaneous trip! Share your images with us using the hashtag #welovenorfolk

Seasons in Wells

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2017 12 East Life Health club Spa FP.qxp_240mm h x 168mm w 15/12/2017 10:05 Page 1

Relax, Revitalise, Restore Ufford Park Woodbridge

Spa breaks from only ÂŁ98* per person

includes dinner, full English breakfast, and complimentary access to our Health Club, with its gym & deck-level swimming pool.

A warm welcome and fantastic views await you at Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa. Whether you are looking for total relaxation, time out and pampering, or to kick-start a healthier lifestyle, Ufford Park is the place to be. Set in the heart of Suffolk, our family-owned and run hotel is the perfect location in which to truly relax and devote time to yourself. Spoil yourself with time out in the Thermal Suite Spa, choose from treatments such as wraps and massages, to detoxing and facials, swim in our 15 metre pool, work out in the gym or sit back and enjoy the fantastic parkland views with a cup of Paddy & Scottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coffee. A friendly, relaxed environment with a wide choice of fitness classes in a bespoke dance studio and, a 2 mile walking/running track round the beautiful 120 acres of historic parkland. We would love to see you. CELEBRATING

0844 477 1835 (Local rate)

w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW

YEARS 1

*Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply.

1992-2

Hit Refresh this NEW YEAR

Written by Georgie Gilding

hen the Christmas baubles have been put away and the festive season is well and truly over, it is time to hit the refresh button. Resolutions have been made and it is time to kick start the New Year the right way after the indulgences of the festive season. With so many desirable spa locations to choose from we have selected the best wellness spas to suit your various needs and to ensure you can stop, revive and thrive in 2018…

Wyboston Lakes, Beds Great N Rd, Wyboston MK44 3AL Tel: 0333 700 7667 | www.yspa.co.uk If like us, you have the January blues and are in need of a little pick me up then keep reading as we’ve found the perfect spa day escape at a bargain price. Located between Cambridge and Bedford, the Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes has an impressive array of facilities to help you completely relax. A steam room, salty steam room, two saunas offering a moderate or high heat, frost wall, experience showers and heated outdoor hydrotherapy pool with deck chairs and cosy sofas dotted around the edge – it was easy to spend hours blissfully relaxing before an afternoon treatment. After your treatment head for the relaxation area which includes a room of pod-like chairs perfect for curling up with a book, and the ‘Big Sleep’; a room of loungers with warm blankets and a fireplace. Most spa days include lunch at the spas restaurant which offers stunning views of the lake. Spa day packages start from £69 per person.

Down Hall, Herts Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Essex, CM22 7AS Tel: 01279 731 441 | downhall.co.uk Down Hall is the perfect place to relax your mind, body and soul and is conveniently located in Hatfield Heath, near Bishop’s Stortford on the Hertfordshire and Essex border. Down Hall Hotel is beautiful inside and out. High ceilings and grand portraits of previous home owners line the corridors and outside the gardens are immaculate. Enjoy a lovely winters walk around the 110 acres of garden and woodland, before popping on your robe and heading to the Eden Spa. The spa features a sauna, steam and hydro pool and relaxation room. There are a range of specialist treatments from ESPA as well as nail care. Whether you are looking to rest, rejuvenate, or relax, Eden Spa is the place for you.

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Ufford Park Woodbridge, Suffolk Yarmouth Road, Woodbridge IP12 1QW Tel: 01394 383555 | www.uffordpark.co.uk The health club, gym and spa is located in 120 acres of picturesque parkland and a 18-hole golf course. The spa includes swimming pool, fully equipped gym, sauna and steam. The Fire and Ice Experience is a great way to enjoy the Thermal Suite, which uses a series of hot and cooling experiences, guiding your body through a sensory journey with the ultimate aim of inducing deep relaxation. Choose from full or half day options, both of which include a delicious lunch and 30-minute treatment. There are packages to suit all budgets with experiences starting from just £39 per person. Check out the residential Suffolk Spa Breaks at Ufford Park that all include a 3-course dinner at the Park Restaurant, breakfast, full use of spa and gym, plus treatments.

The Pigs, Edgefield Norwich Rd, Edgefield NR24 2RL Tel: 01263 587 634 | thepigs.org.uk Fancy spending hours soaking in a wood fire heated outdoor spa in the privacy of your own room, while catching up on the latest episode of Corrie? Then look no further than The Pigs and book into one of their new seven spa rooms that feature a host of facilities including drench showers, private gardens, massage benches and saunas. Yes, please! If you manage to book in an overnight stay (which we highly recommend), you will also be treated to The Pig’s famous 15 mile breakfast. Using the freshest local produce, this Norfolk hotel and spa gets our vote for food, relaxation and ambiance – and, being dog-friendly, you can also pack the pooch!

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Greenwoods Hotel & Spa, Essex Stock Rd, Stock, Ingatestone CM4 9BE Tel: 01277 829990 | www.greenwoodshotel.com Greenwoods Hotel & Spa is a breathtaking blend of 17th century architecture set in a stunning English garden which is the perfect backdrop for a winter spa break this New Year. Recently refurbished, the spa has a 20 metre pool, nine luxurious treatment rooms, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room plus a manicure and pedicure bar. To really help give yourself a New Year body boost, we highly recommend The Himalayan Body Brilliance treatment. This uses pink Himalayan sea salt to exfoliate the body leaving it silky soft and delicately fragranced. A blend of 84 trace minerals helps to detoxify the body and encourages nutrient absorption to the skin. And if all that relaxing has left you hungry, the hotel and spa offers one of the yummiest sparkling English Afternoon Teas to truly round off the perfect spa day!

The Ickworth Hotel, Suffolk Horringer, Bury Saint Edmunds IP29 5QE Tel: 01284735350 | www.ickworthhotel.co.uk Not only is this one of the UK’s most family-friendly luxury hotels, but it also boasts new treatments this New Year. Situated in 1,800 acres of National Trust Gardens in the Suffolk countryside, it is oneof the ultimate destinations to enjoy some relaxing family time away. And if you are here with your clan don’t worry about not getting ample ‘me time’ - what puts this spa into its own child-friendly league is that it has its very own OFSTED regulated crèche. You can relax knowing your little ones are in safe hands as you enjoy a facial, massage or body scrubs and make use of the stunning indoor pool. We recommend the Hot Mineral Body Boost, as this treatment stimulates every cell in the body, helping alleviate muscular pain and remove toxins. After all of that relaxing, you can then enjoy some of the freshest seasonal produce in the region from their restaurant, picked from their walled garden. Or if you want to dine with the little ones, why not have the children’s high tea served in the cinema room for the perfect relaxing combo!

Champeneys, Hertfordshire Chesham Rd, Wigginton, Tring HP23 6HX Tel: 01442 291000 | www.champneys.com

If you find yourself in the area, then a visit to this former Rothschild family-owned estate, complete with Downton Abbey-esque driveway, set in 170 acres of idyllic Hertfordshire countryside, is an absolute must. This hotel and spa has a reputation for sheer relaxation and you will be able to completely rewind, rejuvenate and reset here - in one of their many treatment rooms. The spa here offers treatments that are all based around the concept of seawater therapy, using Thalgo products, the French Marine spa beauty company. They offer four personalised spa packages; the Wellbeing and Rejuvenation, De-stress and Revive, Detox and Cleanse and Slim and Tone. With so much to see and do in addition to treatments, a visit to Britain’s original health Spa in Tring, should be at the top of your New Year’s resolution list. But the luxury of Champeneys does not stop there. When you book a spa day or stay, delicious and healthy meals from the restaurant is included.

eastlife.co.uk

THE PETERBOROUGH BISCUIT THE LARGEST BUSINESS AND RETAIL EVENT 7th February 2018

at the East of England Arena and Events Centre

ome and Experience The Peterborough Biscuit!

The Peterborough Biscuit is the ground breaking business event that has taken our area by storm, only starting in February of this year we experienced a phenomenal 130 exhibitors and over 1000 visitors attending the event, with impeccable reviews from both visitors and exhibitors. The Biscuit is back with a bang and is shaping up to be a colossal event it is 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, which you can buy an outfit or your dinner for that night. 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. We have been dedicated to grow the local business connections of the Peterborough community which we have successfully done through our event but also our additional events we 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 we have provided the business community with great connections on a large and small scale. Our main focus for 2018 is to be seen as THE professional staple in the Peterborough Business Calendar. We have something brand new for 2018 which is The Biscuit Marketplace which is featuring independent retailers from the Peterborough and Stamford

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.

2 3

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.

area, where you can buy a head to toe outfit, your grocery shopping, shoes, jewellery and even your take away for the night. This isn’t just for Peterborough this is for the people of East Anglia as well, so come along and have an experience like none before it’s all happening on the 7th Feb 2018 at The East of England Arena & Events Centre. Whether you have a business or not The Peterborough Biscuit is for all, come along and experience a magnificent day of excitement & joy.

Visitor’s FAQs ggood reasons why you should attend:

1. Find out how to get more clients. 2. Improve your business knowledge. 3. Meet up with a local contact. 4. Discuss ways to make your business more profitable. 5. Find out how to keep clients.

This isn’t just for Peterborough this is for the people of East Anglia as well, so come along and have an experience like none before.

Where can I park? The Arena has car parking for over 2,000 spaces onsite, all within easy walking distance of the venue. How near is the train station? The Arena is just over 2 miles from the railway station. Local taxis and buses are available from the station. Are there catering facilities at the event? There will be hot and cold refreshments available within the venue. Is the event free? Yes, but we encourage all visitors to give a £2 donation to our local charities. The proceeds of which will be given out on the day. Can I just turn up on the day? Yes you can but you will need to register at the registration desk prior to accessing the event. Are there cashpoint facilities? Yes.

Tel: 01733 669405 Email: info@peterboroughbiscuit.co.uk

www.peterboroughbiscuit.co.uk /Pborobiscuit

@pborobiscuit

2018 Diary Dates T

he buzz of Christmas may be a distant memory but there’s no excuse to give in to the January blues. Give yourself something to look forward to and book your ticket to one of these events in 2018…be quick though, tickets won’t be around for long!

City Roots Festival, Cambridge, 22 February – 6 March The spirit of the world-famous Cambridge Folk Festival will inject the city with winter cheer in February and March, when Cambridge’s second city-wide winter folk and roots festival opens for two weeks of exceptional music and events. The Corn Exchange, Cambridge Junction and The Portland Arms will host a number of musicians and artists throughout the event. There will also be drop-in music sessions around the city; a special City Roots Family Day with free attractions including craft workshops, face-painting, storytelling, ‘Come and Try’ ukulele workshop and fun walkabout characters; plus what promises to be a sell-out City Roots highlight - a fascinating live interview, in association with the Cambridge Union Society, with charismatic Canvey Island rocker Wilko Johnson - and it’s safe to say City Roots will be one of the most anticipated events in Cambridge in 2018! www.cambridgefolkfestival.co.uk/cityroots

The Banff Mountain Film Festival,

1 March, Corn Exchange, Cambridge The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is returning to the UK in 2018, with thrilling evenings of adventure films coming to the Corn Exchange, Cambridge, on 28 February and 20 April, the Alban Arena on 1 March and to the UEA, Norwich on 21 April. The tour features two different collections of brand new adventure films, starring the world’s top explorers on mind-blowing journeys in wild and remote parts of the globe. www.banff-uk.com

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The East Anglian Game & Country Fair,

28-29 April, Euston Estate, Thetford

The annual two-day family event welcomes world class displays and attractions to the show each year. There are lots of fun and educational activities for children of all ages, equestrian and dog events, shopping opportunities, food and drink, sporting pursuits, live music and much more. www.ukgamefair.co.uk

Norfolk & Norwich Festival, 11-27 May

The largest arts festival in the East of England returns for another year of entertainment from some of the UK’s leading artists and performers. The programme will be the first presented under the new festival directorship, as Daniel Brine takes over from predecessor William Galinsky this month. Internationally acclaimed UK circus company, Barely Methodical Troupe will headline the Adnams Spiegeltent with the world premiere of Shift. The festival will present further world premiers as well as returning favourites. The full line up will be announced in February. www.nnfestival.org.uk.

Forest Live 2018, 7-10 June This is a line up you don’t want to miss! Gary Barlow, The Script, Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott and Kasabian have been announced as gigs as part of Forest Live; the summer concert series organised by the Forestry Commission. Taking place in Thetford Forest, the gigs are a great opportunity to make the most of the light evenings and enjoy fantastic live music with the backdrop of the woodlands. Gary Barlow on 8 June is already sold out but you can join the waiting list, however tickets are still available for the other artists! More information at www.forestry.gov.uk

Craig David at Newmarket Nights, 20 July Internationally acclaimed and multi-award winning artist Craig David will be taking to the stage at Newmarket Racecourse on 20 July 2018. Visitors can expect classic hits as well as material from his new album ‘The Time Is Now’. The announcement of Craig David follows The Vamps having been announced for the family-friendly Summer Saturday Live, headlining on 25 August 2018. Tickets for Craig David are now on sale via www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk, priced from £29.

Nene Park Trust, Ferry Meadows Celebrates Culture Ferry Meadows Country Park 30 June and 1 July Peterborough’s beloved greenspace, Ferry Meadows Country Park, officially opened on 1 July 1978. To mark its 40th year Nene Park Trust will host a festival of food, fun and culture at Ferry Meadows. Celebrations include a teddy bears picnic on the meadow, a farmers market, live music, a cinema experience and much more.

Essex Festival of Food and Drink, 14-15 July One of the biggest foodie events in the region is back! Taking place at Cressing Temple Barns, this year has an impressive line up of appearances including chef Tom Kerridge and Fred Sirieix from Channel 4’s First Dates and his boss Chris Galvin. Further details are available at www.essexfoodfestival.co.uk. If you can’t wait until July to get your foodie fix, the Essex Fine Food featuring chefs James Martin and John Torode returns to Chelmsford City Racecourse on 12 and 13 May.

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INGATESTONE HALL Hall Lane, Ingatestone, Essex CM4 9NR

(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.) 16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Sunday, Wednesday and Bank Holiday afternoons (Noon – 5 p.m.) from Easter until the end of September 2017

Adults - £7 Concessions £6 Children (over 5) - £3 Ingatestone Hall is available for hire throughout the year for fairs & exhibitions, concerts & plays, weddings & family celebrations etc.

Working from home, whether employed or selfemployed, can often feel isolating. But it doesn’t have to as there is a solution… Try co-working for a day at Cambridge Business Lounge for FREE and see why: • 71% report a boost in creativity • 80% report expanding their business network • 92% report increasing their social circle * Source: Deskmag’s global coworking survey

Email info@cambridgebusinesslounge.com, call 01223 324040 or tweet @CamBizLounge to book your free day.

OPENS EASTER UNTIL END OF SEPTEMBER 2018 Guided tours available for groups at other times by prior appointment - Ring 01277 353010

For more information, see our website:

Tel. 01277 353010 Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk Website: www.ingatestonehall.com

To learn what co-working is, visit: cambridgebusinesslounge.com

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.

Advertorial feature

Mantle Business Centres â&#x20AC;&#x201C; helping businesses realise their goals

antle Business Centres provide quality flexible office space as a service. We understand the needs of our SME and corporate clients and have the ability to deliver the flexible terms, connectivity, technology and highly supportive staff they need to support their growth.

Our centres in Stansted, Cambridge, Duxford, Stevenage and Chelmsford each have their own unique identity, all share the same high standards of facilities and make customer experience a priority. At the heart of operations at each centre is a dedicated Centre Manager, on-site 5 days a week. Our friendly reception staff act as an extension of your company, providing an efficient first point of contact for clients or investors. Our Business Development team work to bring the community together regularly by providing opportunities to collaborate and do business through a programme of networking events. Our strong management and finance teams provide a professional, timely and seamless service behind the scenes.

We have the facilities and technology you need to run a successful business, with smart, stylish interiors that help you to promote the right image. You can benefit from immediate availability of our fully furnished ready to use office space, with the flexibility to grow and contract, a pay-as-you-use system for services, and our user friendly licences. Whatever your business goals, we provide the services and the environment to help you to achieve them.

www.mantlebusinesscentres.co.uk

Better Together The rise of the co-working office

he way we work is changing. More than ever before many of us are choosing to swap the nine-to-five and 40-hour work weeks for a life of self-employment or freelance. With it comes flexible hours and holiday, and the opportunity to work wherever you wish. The past decade has seen the era of bloggers and Instagramers make the coffee shop the millennial office, but as more employers let staff work from home and others become self-employed, there has been a new trend emerging; the co-working office. The concept allows individuals to rent desk space on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Working remotely can be isolating over time, and a co-working office allows the interaction, ideas and creativity that is sometimes needed within business. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also an attractive option for landlords and estate agents looking to fill property.

The co-working office is by no means a new concept, the model is widespread in cities across the world with companies such as We Work offering a global network of office space; 269 office locations in 59 cities to be exact, and growing! Finally, co-working offices have gone beyond city lines and are starting to emerge in market towns and villages, and the East of England is no exception. From small and intimate spaces such as The Common Room in the village of Newport, near Saffron Walden to Mantle Business Centres in Stansted, Cambridge, Duxford, Chelmsford and Stevenage, which offers hot desks from just ÂŁ10 per day, the way we work is changing. With the option of home offices and co-working space, we can now have the best of both worlds!

eastlife.co.uk

Glamour Glamping

“The best place we’ve ever stayed”

“Every little detail has been thought of ”

THE PERFECT HIDEAWAY FROM THE WORLD

“The bed is like sleeping on a cloud”

“Would recommend to everyone”

Don’t just take our word for it, for reviews, pictures and offers: follow like and tweet us!

A complex of luxurious shepherd’s huts hidden amongst the most tranquil and beautiful countryside Norfolk has to offer. Located deep in the heart of King Edward VIII Wood, our adult only site offers everything you need for a relaxing getaway; from Luxury retreat boxes (for all dietary requirements) to bringing your favourite four legged friends. Relax however you wish at Thompson Hall Retreat.

With the key features for everyone’s perfect getaway Living Area / Kitchen Luxury King Size Bed Microwave Wood Burner Fridge Gas Hob

Bathroom Large Shower Flushing Toilet Illuminated Mirror Electric Hand Rail Wash Basin

Veranda Double Ended Bath Fully Equipped Kitchen Combi Oven Gas Fire Pit Al Fresco Dining

Thompson Hall Retreat, Hall Lane, Thompson, Thetford IP24 1QA

www.thompsonhallretreat.co.uk T: 01953 488731 E: info@thompsonhallretreat.co.uk

Dog friendly

Tails

about town Doggy drama Written by Emma Kemsley

h what a month we’ve had. There’s been non-stop doggy drama, and the story went something a little like this… On a cold, but beautiful Monday, I wasn’t quite feeling myself. Encouraged by my husband to get some fresh air, I accompanied him and Fletcher on the afternoon walk around the field by our home. A walk we’ve done almost twice a day for the last three years. Fletcher enjoys jumping through the brambles and forest and chasing sticks at super speed across the muddy fields, finished with a mucky wash in the stream. It was a day like no other. Half way through the walk, Fletcher some distance ahead, I noticed drops of blood on the leaves. My husband assumed it was an injured animal, as we walked it got thicker, and then we saw Fletcher drop to the floor, frantically pulling at his leg. By the time we reached him he was in a pool of blood, which was pouring from his left paw. I’m squeamish, I’ve never seen so much blood and it’s an image I will never be able to remove from my mind. By the time I had flapped and screamed, my quick thinking husband had whipped my scarf off and used it to try and stop the bleeding. I dashed across the muddy fields to fetch the car from home. I’m not a runner, but somehow that I afternoon I forgot that I was unwell and became an Olympic athlete. At one point I threw my coat to the ground, and by the time I got to our drive I was shoeless – my wellies were slowing me down! Dramatic maybe, but my puppy needed me, I really did think he was going to bleed to death. And yes, I looked like a lunatic when I rocked up in the vets with no shoes, looking like an extra from the cast of the Walking Dead! Thankfully Fletcher was fine. He had slit the skin between his paw pad on some flint. After being put to sleep to be stitched up, he had to sport a bandage and plastic cover for the next two and a half weeks. The vet told me Fletcher would probably be sleepy after the anaesthesia, ha, fine chance of that. He returned home bouncing around as normal. There’s no stopping this cocker! I was clearly far more traumatised than him.

Unfortunately, the injury did put a dampener on our weekend in Norfolk as the paw wasn’t allowed to get wet. It meant no beach runs which led to several Spaniel strops. Well, that was until he escaped from the car in Blakeney and jumped straight into the algae filled Quay. My friend said it was like watching a slow motion film as my husband and I screamed “Noooooooooooo” with our hands in the air chasing after him. That phrase could be Fletcher’s anthem! The whole experience has made me rather thankful. Thankful to have Fletcher, thankful that I wasn’t alone on that walk, thankful for the lovely lady at Wells Pet Store who changed his wet dressing and finally, very thankful for pet insurance! Read more Tails About Town at

www.eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly

eastlife.co.uk

THE

DOG

HOUSE

Quiet relaxed salon in Stansted Mountfitchet With a 1 in 1 out basis with 25 years experience.

The Bubbles Are Back! Booking by appointment All breeds welcome Nails trimmed Clipping

Bathing Scissoring

Call Nina on 07535 709511 23-25 Lower Street Stansted Mountfitchet CM24 8LN

5km Fun Run Maldon Promenade Park Sunday 8th August 2018 Central Park Chelmsford Sunday 5th August 2018 www.farleighhospice.org/bubbles It is because you care that we can www.farleighhospice.org Registered charity no 284670

The

Judith Fox

Ballet School

The Judith Fox Ballet School likes to introduce a love of ballet to as many children as possible. The emphasis being on enjoyment, but with a serious side for those who would like to go on to vocational school and a possible career in the dance world. Students have been accepted in top schools and gone on to a professional career. Classes take place throughout the week, with the youngest on Saturday mornings when full of beans.

Visit www.eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly/

Adult classes (good excercise) in ballet, tap, street. The Foxes, Tuttles Lane East, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 0EW

Tel: 01953 607235 Judith Fox 1/4.indd 1

15/2/12 10:15:11

eastlife

Little East

MUM’s

The Word

Family Traditions Written by Dolly Osborne

he coming of a New Year is heavily laden with tradition: the fireworks, the midnight kisses, the singing of Auld Lang Syne without actually understanding what you are singing, the hangovers… It’s got me thinking about the traditions I grew up with and what I want my children to inherit. New Year brought two big traditions to the child Dolly. I had my grandparents annual laying out of coal, bread and money, and then I had New Year’s resolutions. The annual procession of my grandmother with her collection of objects never grasped my interest but resolutions did. The New Year’s resolutions brought the promise of change. I could and would better myself in the New Year I would say, I could look at all of the bad habits I had and I could smite them with one list. The New Year would be the year of the new me. Though it hardly ever worked. Diets would fail, journals would lay empty, exercise equipment frantically bought in the January sales would gather dust and come December I would deride myself for being a failure, for not being good enough, for not changing as I had resolved to do. And so it goes on, year after year, generation after generation; a strange annual group masochism.

And that is the philosophy I want my children to receive: time naturally brings change, we can’t force it with resolutions and impractical deadlines. We should just hope for enough resources to see us through the next 12 months and hope that is enough to get us past the inevitable curveballs that are served. So no more setting up for failure, let’s just prepare ourselves for life. Happy New Year. Read more from Dolly at www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus

So when I sat down this year to think of the New Year and what rituals I will undertake, I thought past the resolution habit I had inherited & back to the odd New Year that I spent with my Nanny and Grandad. My Nanny was so beloved to me and on reflection I see this great gift she gave me that I had never unwrapped: each New Year she left outside a lump of coal, a slice of bread and a 10 pence piece to ask for another year of enough warmth, enough food and enough money to live. Not more, not asking for a miraculous transformation but simply asking for enough.

eastlife.co.uk

Colchester Royal Grammar School 11+ Open Evening Tuesday 26th June, 6.30pm - 9.00pm

CRGS is an 11-18 state selective grammar school which admits boys from Year 7 and has a co-educational Sixth Form. It is one of the top-performing schools in the country and is one of very few state boarding schools, with accommodation for 30 Sixth Form students. The family atmosphere, culture of academic excellence and care for the wellbeing of students are key features of the school.

No appointments necessary - limited parking at rear of school 6 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3ND Tel: 01206 509100 - www.crgs.co.uk

T S APIENTIA

WYMONDHAM COLLEGE

BOARDER TASTER EVENING Friday 16 March 2018 17:45-20:30

MAIN SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Saturday 17 March 2018 09:00 - 11:00

Registration required for both events You can register on our website at www.wymondhamcollege.org

Open Events 19 January Junior School Taster Day 22 January - 26 January Junior School Open Week 8 February Junior STEM Day

We believe in our girls. And they believe in themselves.

World Class School Accreditation Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ in both education and boarding Great value Boarding fees at just over £10,000 per year with free education for all

Contact admissions for applications for both Main School and Sixth Form admissions@wymondhamcollege.org | 01953 609014 www.wymondhamcollege.org

Visit us to see what we mean northamptonhigh.gdst.net 01604 765765

TP_Junior_NEW_148mmx107mm_2018.qxp_Layout 1 08/12/2017 13:03 Page 1

For A unique performing arts and academic education For young people with outstanding talent in Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre or Commercial Music Co-educational boarding & day school from ages 8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 19 Outstanding academic education offering 23 A Level options

OPEN DAYS 2018

1 February - Preps Taster Morning 16 March - Open Day

Apply online at www.tringpark.com/opendays

www.tringpark.com info@tringpark.com or tel. 01442 824255 Photo: www.gentlevisions.co.uk Registered charity no. 1040330

St Mary's ad Eastlife Jan 2018 107mm h x 148mm w_Layout 1 12/12/2017 12:32 Page 1

Happy girls are high achievers.

Come along to our 2018 Spring Open Days: Kindergarten and Lower School Saturday 17 March, 9.30-11.00; Senior School Tuesday 27 February, 10.30-12.00 & Saturday 3 March, 10.00-12.00

St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Colchester

For more information, please contact our Registrar, 01206 216420 registrar@stmaryscolchester.org.uk www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk

Their route to an outstanding future with...

The Extend Programme

As a gifted & talented student - EN really is the best place for students to study. At East Norfolk, we are proud of seeing our students progress to some of the best universities in the country. Every year, over 50% of our students go on to higher education including Oxford, Cambridge and the top Russell Group Universities.

We stretch and challenge our students. The range of opportunities at EN are unrivalled. In addition to the structured two year Extend Programme, we offer activities and support for students across all curriculum areas to ensure that everyone has the chance to stand out from the crowd.

Rose McNelly

UK Young Scientist Winner 2017

Come to EN and find out moreâ&#x20AC;Ś

Prize winning chemists

Top mathematicians

Cambridge Chemistry Challenge 2017

UKMT Senior Maths Challenge

Church Lane, Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 9RE

as s

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in the whole of

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Best State School/SFC

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UK Maths Trust Kangaroo

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Top performance in East Anglia Further Maths, Maths, Physics & Law (ALPS)

Norfolk HE Scheme

School

Education

OPEN DAYS

new year is a chance to view the region’s finest schools. Make the right choice for your child and stop by one of the upcoming open days…

ESSEX Colchester Royal Grammar School 6 Lexden Rd, Colchester CO3 3ND Tel: 01206 509100 Open day: 11+ open evening, 26 June, 6.20pm-9pm CRGS is an 11-18 state selective grammar school which admits boys from Year 7 and has a co-educational Sixth Form. www.crgs.co.uk St Mary’s School for Girls 91 Lexden Road, Colchester CO3 3RB Tel: 01206 572544 Open days: Kindergarten and Lower School, 17 March, 9.30-11am; Senior School, 27 February, 10.30-12pm and 3 March, 10am-12pm. A high achieving independent school for girls aged 3-16 with a focus on building confidence and academic achievement. www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk Brentwood School Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood CM15 8EE Tel: 01277 243243 Open day: 9 June, arrival times: 9.30am or 10.30am, Talk times: 10.30am & 11.30am. An independent day and boarding school in Essex for boys and girls aged 3 to 18. www.brentwoodschool.co.uk Oxford House 2 - 4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE Tel: 01206 576686 Open day: 22 March 6pm – 8.30pm An independent co-educational school for children aged 2 and half-11 years. www.oxfordhouseschool.net

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Cambridge International School, Cherry Hinton Hall Lodge, Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge CB1 8DW Tel: 01223 416938 Open days: 27 January, 10 February and 3 March The school provides an inspiring and exciting education for children aged 3-18. www.cambridgeinternationalschool.co.uk Wisbech Grammar School 47 North Brink, Wisbech PE13 1JX Tel: 01945 583631 Open days: Prep School Open Morning, 27 Jan 2018, 10am - 12:30pm; Prep School taster session week, w/c 5 February; Whole School Open Morning, 17 March, 9.30am-12.30pm; Prep 5 (Year 5) Taster Day, 28 April, 9.30am-3pm. Wisbech Grammar School is a community populated by individuals instilled with a sense of purpose and passion. For pupils aged 4-18, it continues to perform at the highest level with consistently very high pass rates and similar percentages of pupils going on to study at their first choice university. www.wisbechgrammar.com Northampton High School Hardingstone, Northampton NN4 6UU Tel: 01604 765765 Open days: Year 3 taster, 19 January; Junior School open week, 22-26 January; Junior STEM Day, 8 February. An independent day school for girls aged from 3 - 18 years. www.northamptonhigh.co.uk

eastlife.co.uk

Discover who you are... Bus routes across Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire to Wisbech Grammar At Wisbech Grammar School, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just focus on academic success but on developing and nurturing young people to reach their full potential. We believe educational development is not simply confined to the classroom or laboratory, but can be found in the art rooms, dance and performing studios, music rooms and sports fields.

Prep School Open Morning Saturday 27 January 10:00 - 12:30 Come and see how we nurture young minds in an individualised environment of play and learning.

Whole School Open Morning Saturday 17 March 2018 10:00- 12:30 (for children aged 4-18) Tour our whole school from Reception class to 6th Form and speak to current pupils and teachers.

Prep 5 (Year 5) Taster Day Saturday 28 April 2018 9:30 - 15:00 Experience what it is like to be a pupil at Wisbech Grammar School, aimed at children looking for Senior School entry in September 2019.

Book your place now, or contact us for a personalised tour at your convenience 01945 586750

admissions@wisbechgrammar.com

wisbechgrammar.com

“Give a girl the right shoes and she will conquer the world.” Marilyn Monroe

Open Days 2018: Friday 9th March • Saturday 21st April • Friday 27th April

Excellent independent boarding and day

01462 670 511

school located in Letchworth Garden City

admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

for girls aged 3 - 18 years

www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

A diverse and enriching educational experience The Nursery and Primary School are pleased to be back in Cherry Hinton Hall this January, following its major refurbishment. We are welcoming visitors to view the redeveloped buildings on the following days. Saturday 27th January 2018 Saturday 10th February 2018 Saturday 3rd March 2018

For further information, please contact the registrar: admissions@cischool.co.uk and 01223 778290.

INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL For children aged 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 16 years old

10459-ISP Cambridge International School- Three publication adverts V4.indd 1

13/12/2017 11:26

NURSERY

Discover our outstanding school for girls aged 3 to 18 at our next

PREP SCHOOL SENIOR SCHOOL

Monday 12th to Friday 16th March 2018

SIXTH FORM

To book your place email admissions@nor.gdst.net or call 01603 453 265. NORWICH HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

NORFOLK Wymondham College Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 9SZ Tel: 01953 609000 Open days: Boarder taster evening, 16 March, 5.45-8.30pm; Main School open morning, 17 March, 9-11am; Sixth Form mini open mornings, 3 and 24 February and 28 April A school for students aged 11-18, boarders and day pupils. www.wymondhamcollege.org East Norfolk Sixth Form Church Lane, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth,  NR31 7BQ Tel: 01493 662234 Open days: Careers Fair, 1 March, 10am-12.30pm; Information evening, 7 March, 4-7pm The sixth form college welcomes 1,700 students to study a curriculum with over 80 A Level and BTEC subjects at Level 3 and Level 2. www.eastnorfolk.ac.uk Norwich High School for Girls 95 Newmarket Road, Norwich NR2 2HU Tel: 01603 453265 Open day: Open Week from 12 -16 March. Tours and visits can also be arranged by appointment. The school offers an education which is about more than exams, with sport, music, art, performance and innovative enrichment opportunities, for girls aged 3-18. www.norwichhigh.gdst.net

SUFFOLK Stoke College Stoke by Clare, Sudbury, CO10 8JE Tel: 01787 278 141 Open days: Prep, 23 February, 9.30am-12pm; Senior, 24 February, 9.30am-12pm An independent day and boarding school with a focus on strong academic progress, providing too a breadth of experience and opportunity to develop character and help each child to discern their future. www.stokecollege.co.uk

HERTFORDSHIRE Tring Park School Tring, HP23 5LX Tel: 01442 824255 Open days: Preps taster morning, 1 February; Open day, 16 March An outstanding performing arts school for talented young individuals, that also focuses on an academic education. www.tringpark.com St Francis College Broadway, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3PJ Tel: 01462 670511 Open days: 21 April, 10am-12.30pm and 27 April, 9am-12.30pm An all-girls school that provides an excellent education, focusing on nurturing the individual talents of its pupils, aged between three and 18 years old. www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk Howe Green House School Great Hallingbury, Bishop’s Stortford CM22 7UF Tel: 01279 657706 Open day: Dates to be announced The school offers education for children with the opportunities to achieve their academic potential within a family environment. www.howegreenhouse.essex.sch.uk St George’s School Sun Lane, Harpenden AL5 4TD Tel: 01582 765477 Open days: Contact directly for further details An academy, all-ability, Christian Foundation but nondenominational school for boys and girls. www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk St Christopher School, Letchworth Barrington Road, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3JZ Tel: 01462 650850 Open day: 28 April An independent school for girls and boys aged 3–18. www.stchris.co.uk

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

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

ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL HARPENDEN

A non-denominational Christian day and boarding school

OUTSTANDING SCHOOL 2015/16

SIS

11-18 boarding at one of the UK's top performing non-selective coeducational schools for £3950 per term Only 30 minutes from St Pancras International Less than an hour by road from Heathrow, Stansted and Luton

Herts AL5 4TD | boardingadmissions@stgeorges.herts.sch.uk | 01582 716284

www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk

• Montessori teaching methods • Emphasis on academic achievement • Strong traditional values • Music, dance and drama enrich the curriculum

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

Please join us for our next Open Evening on Thursday 22nd March 6.00pm – 8.30pm Please contact our Admissions Registrar, Mrs Harding on 01206 576686. 2 - 4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE

www.oxfordhouseschool.net

Truly Independent

Day and boarding for girls and boys aged 3 to 18 Forward-thinking, creative and supportive environment where children are treated as individuals Green and spacious 25 acre campus on the edge of Letchworth with top class facilities for sport, music, art and design Extensive school bus network to surrounding towns and villages and shuttle bus to Letchworth train station

OPEN MORNING Saturday 28 April 2018 To find out more call 01462 650 947 or email admissions@stchris.co.uk

 @StChris_School

www.stchris.co.uk

 stchris_school

B8291 StC 107x148mmL 2.indd 1

18/12/2017 14:09

Stoke COLLEGE

Stoke by Clare, Sudbury CO10 8JE

Tel: 01787 278141

Independent School for Children 4-18 Stoke by Clare, Sudbury

www.stokecollege.co.uk

Open Morning

Thursday, 2nd February 9.30 – Midday

An Independent School where children love to learn

A caring and inspiring environment, children love to learn. Towhere find out more about Newour Sixthschool Form Opening 2017 and theSeptember new Flexi,developments, Weekly and Full Boarding Contact: registrar@stokecollege.co.uk or Prep: Friday 23rd February 9.30 – Midday please come to our Open Morning. Senior: Saturday 24th February 9.30 – Midday Tel: 01787 278141

Open Mornings

Please contact registrar@stokecollege.co.uk or telephone 01787 278141 to register your interest. Prep

Senior

Sixth Form

Boarding

Picnic themed cafe serving local homemade food to eat in or takeaway. VISIT OUR SHOP

For an eclectic shopping experience

Breakfast. Lunches. Light Snacks

Opening times: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm | Sun 10am - 4pm

Brick Yard Barn, Norwich Road, Hedenham, Bungay NR35 2DE

01508 483947

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Food Drink news

Food & Drink

New deli opens at Tamburlaine, Cambridge

Tamburlaine has opened the doors to Steam Deli, which will offer locals and commuters tea, coffee and hearty Americanstyle sandwiches. The deli will provide the opportunity for commuters to grab food on the go. Healthy breakfast options include Vanilla Bean Porridge with a choice of toppings, amongst other dishes. Lunches will consist of sandwiches, salads and freshly baked cakes. Steam Deli, located a stone’s throw away from Cambridge Train Station, is open Monday – Friday from 6.30am to 6.30pm, Saturday 8am to 6pm and Sunday 9am to 5pm. www.thetamburlaine.co.uk

The Akeman, Tring celebrates a decade with unusual wall art Last month, The Akeman, Tring celebrated its 10th birthday, with a refurbishment and unusual wall sculpture of a giant Green Man. The Akeman recently underwent a major refurbishment and an extension into the shop next door providing a new wood-fired pizza oven in the extended open kitchen, more seating in the enlarged restaurant and two cosy ‘parlour rooms’ with a dedicated server. One change has been the display of a large and unusual wall sculpture of a giant Green Man, commissioned by Oakman’s CEO, Peter Borg-Neal, which is made from tens of thousands of plastic straws.

Bartlow pub reopens following extensive refurbishment The Three Hills Pub in Bartlow, Cambridgeshire has reopened its doors after a two-year closure. The Grade II listed 17th century timber framed building has been extensively renovated and refurbished, with newly designed and extended eating facilities, a new bar area, six stylish bedrooms, car parking and a garden at the rear. The pub is both child and dog-friendly. www.thethreehills.co.uk

A Green Man is a sculpture or other representation of a face surrounded by leaves, branches or vines. The commission was prompted by seeing evidence of the appalling and direct impact of discarded straws on so many sea creatures, and Peter Borg-Neal decided to ban single-use plastic drinking straws from all 20 of Oakman’s pubs to mark Earth Day 2017 on 22 April. However, this meant he had a stockpile of over 60,000 unwanted plastic straws, which became use for the project. Peter said: “We take sustainability seriously in our business, and having seen a tragic video of a turtle with a straw embedded deep in its nose, we became the first pub group to #BanTheStraw in the UK, which has inspired other pub groups to follow suit.” Ipswich sculptor, Lois Cordelia, was commissioned to design and create a wall-mounted sculpture which incorporates several tens of thousands of the unwanted plastic straws, threaded, woven and bunched together on a sturdy frame of steel wire.

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The Rise of the Vegan B

eing vegan is easier than ever now, thanks to the host of events, shops, pop ups and restaurants across the region which celebrate the very best in vegan food. We’ve pulled together a selection of our favourites to help you hunt down some tasty treats.

Written by Amanda French www.anoseforfood.com

www.facebook.com/CambridgeVeganMarket

Events & Pop-ups Saturday 3 March sees Colchester Hall in Essex taken over by the Essex Vegan Festival. Highlights include over 100 stalls featuring cakes, sandwiches, salads, candles, cheeses, crafts, healthy treats and much more. Enjoy free samples, nutritional advice and cookery demos alongside inspirational talks and workshops. Tickets are only £3 and under 16s get in free…so bring along the whole family. The Cambridge Vegan Market returns on Sunday 11 March. There’ll be plenty for everyone, vegan or not, to enjoy with stalls selling a huge variety of vegan products from food and luxury cosmetics to ethical clothing. There is also rumour of a vegan beer festival taking place in a local pub on the same day. The first 100 people to arrive at the market receive some free vegan goodies and if you bring your own mug, there is a free mug of tea or coffee. Visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/cambridgeveganmarket to find out more.

May might seem like a long way away, but if you are in Bedford, then head on over to the town centre on Sunday 5 May from 9am – 4.30pm to experience Bedford’s Vegan market. With plenty of stalls full of vegan food, cake and products to buy, there’ll be something for everyone. If you want to learn more about becoming vegan, this is the perfect opportunity, as there’ll be information stalls and plenty of people on hand to give advice. On the last Saturday of every month the Quakers Building on Upper Goat Lane in Norwich becomes a vegan pop-up event from 11am – 2pm…perfect timing for lunch! Enjoy a variety of vegan treats including pizza, sausage rolls, cheesy garlic bread, fresh juice and more. The stalls change every month, so keep an eye on their Facebook page to find out more at www.facebook.com/norwichveganpopupshop

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www.facebook.com/vegredlion

Restaurants

www.facebook.com/stemandglory

The Vegetarian Red Lion (vegredlion.co.uk) in Great Bricett in Ipswich is one of the only pubs in the area serving a solely vegetarian and vegan menu. Vegan dishes include asparagus, minted pear and caramelised red onion tart and sweet potato, squash and peanut curry among other dishes. Many of the vegetarian dishes can be altered to offer vegan alternatives too. Stem & Glory (www.stemandglory.co.uk) in Cambridge has two locations to enjoy their plant based dishes. Enjoy 100% plant-based dishes at either location and their selection of vegan wines. Make sure you check out their vegan brunch which launched last month.

You won’t find mung bean stew at The Den at 23 in Colchester (www.thedenattwentythree.co.uk) as their goal is to cater to those vegans who want to replicate the flavours of favourite dishes using 100% plant-based ingredients. Expect juicy quarter pounder burgers, oozing melted cheese toasties and ‘chicken-less’ tang tower burgers. You’ll also be able to tuck into cupcakes with creamy frosting, warm brownie sundaes and frothy coffees, safe in the knowledge they are all vegan friendly. Worth a mention…the only 100% vegan shop in the region Little Shop of Vegans is a small, independent vegan shop in Norwich, Norfolk, selling 100% vegan products including chilled food, frozen pizza, savoury rolls, confectionery, clothing, gifts and more. (www.littleshopofvegans.com)

www.facebook.com/thedenattwentythree

For more veggie news, restaurant suggestions, recipes and more join our Vegetarian and Vegan Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/Veggieandvegan

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The

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

Foodie

Seven ways to create a better world Resolutions - It’s that time of the year again. We have overindulged and the early dark evenings make us reflect on life. The 1st of January is always the key date to start new resolutions, eat healthier and go sober for the whole month. It’s not just you, but everybody is always struggling to get that balance back in their life after the party season. The big question is actually, should we review our lives only in January or take a different approach throughout the year? Life is a balance, cutting back is good, but cutting out things completely might not be the solution. What is life if you cut out the joy and cannot enjoy yourself? There is so much fun to be had. Just go for it, but in moderation. Get involved - I will be revisiting my beloved Cape Town this January and many people tell me, that they find it very difficult to cope with the differences in society here. My way of giving back is being involved in The Dreamcatcher Foundation SA and UK (thedreamcatcherfoundation.org). I am very excited, that the founder, Anthea Rossouw, will be talking at Anglia Ruskin about responsible travel in March. We have combined this with a food walking tour that day. Indeed, it’s a hard life out there in the communities, but a lot of progress has been made too. When we look around us in Cambridge, there is a lot of hardship too. Organisations like the Food Cycle are always looking for volunteers to cook up meals for people who cannot afford to buy food, You’ll also will come across singles who don’t want to eat alone and young families. Give a donation to support the good cause. This will help Food Cycle again to cook even more meals! More details can be found at www.foodcycle.org.uk/location/cambridge. Reduce rubbish - The big debate is out there how to reduce waste and especially plastic. Supermarkets in France are not allowed to use plastic anymore. I think it will be a while before it will be introduced here too. The Cambridge Food Tour decided not to hand out plastic bottles anymore, but to donate to WaterAid instead. Even Pret-a-Manger has started with free water at the shops to reduce waste. Planning might be the answer to go forward?

Jump on your bike - Fed up with the the traffic in Cambridge? Have you considered getting on your bike? The Cambridge Cycling campaign is working hard to improve the cycleways in Cambridge. The advantage of shopping on your bike is that you can use all those lovely independents as you can park up as you cycle along. Mill Road and the local market are two of my favourite streets to shop and there is enough space to park your bike. Don’t have a bike? Check out OFO, perfect if you need a bike for just a few hours. More details at www.camcycle.org.uk Food waste - Have you bought too much food and don’t know what to do with it? Check out the Love Food Hate Waste Facebook page, they have quite a few tips how to use your surplus of vegetables. Did you know, that there is a community fridge in Mill Road in Cambridge? Drop off the food here, which still can be used but is nearing the expiry date. Find out more at www.facebook.com/LoveFoodHateWasteCommunity Grow your own - Did you know that having your own allotment is great fun, rewarding and good for your mental health? There are quite a few organisations such as the Sirenians, who use it as therapy. Check out Whitehall Allotments as they still have quite a few plots available. www.whitehill.info Time to relax - Take a walk along the river. It’s free and there is always something to see! Have a great 2018!

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Where to Roast Remember to call ahead and book these fine locations to avoid disappointment. After all a good roast makes for a busy place!

Written by Ruby Reed

o we ended the year with a fantastic festive roast. Now we’re all thinking where can I go that will come anywhere close?! Well, here are a few places that might just make the grade… The Fleur De Lys, Widdington, Essex Tel: 01799 543280 | thefleurdelys.co.uk Price: £££ Good to know: Very dog-friendly with plenty of water bowls available A country pub of old style interiors including beams of character, but they are by no means out dated when it comes to their range of Sunday roasts. Choose from beef, turkey or BBQ pulled pork with crackling, all of which are served with roast potatoes, mixed vegetables and a rich gravy. Roasts here are personally recommended by our editor Emma! And for all the beer lovers out there the Fleur specialises in guest ales and local micro-breweries.

The Rupert Brooke, Grantchester, Cambridgeshire Tel: 01223 841875 | www.therupertbrooke.com Price: £££ Good to know: Great date night location This tasteful establishment is a fantastic venue for a special occasion roast. Elegant décor creates a memorable setting to choose from their sirloin of beef or loin of pork. Each served with all the traditional trimmings plus red cabbage and cauliflower cheese.

The White Hart, Fulbourn, Cambridgeshire Tel: 01223 880264 | www.whitehartfulbourn.co.uk Price: ££ Good to know: Rooms available, ideal for those looking to stay outside the city centre I recently visited here and experienced the cosy atmosphere. My partner is a hard one to please when it comes to Sunday lunch but I cannot wait to go back for more of the highquality meat, fluffy Yorkshire’s and fresh ingredients.

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The Green Man, Trumpington, Cambridgeshire Tel: 01223 844903 | www.thegreenmantrumpington.com Price: ££ Good to know: Good vegetarian options available I went here for a festive roast but know for a fact this hearty pub serves good quality Sunday lunch all year round. Their wide range includes; beef, chicken, pork and lamb, but the real jewel in their crown is the trio roast; beef, chicken & pork. Fear not vegetarians, the Green Man’s nut roast is highly recommended. There are comfy sofas and arm chairs for relaxation in the bar area, a perfect spot to continue the Sunday afternoon after leaving your table.

The Edwardstone White Horse Inn, Sudbury, Suffolk Tel: 01787 211211 | www.edwardstonewhitehorse.co.uk Price: ££ Good to know: Get a seat by the open fire

A lovely Suffolk pub with locally sourced meat, nestled in pretty lanes and fields so is perfect for a post-roast walk. Roasts include lamb and pork belly. With an open fire, play area opposite and public footpaths in all directions, the Edwardstone ticks a lot of boxes.

The Crown, Woodbridge, Suffolk Tel: 01394 384242 | www.thecrownatwoodbridge.co.uk Price: £££ Good to know: Accommodation is available Local produce is a must. Examples of their special roasts include loin and confit leg of local rabbit with black pudding, and guinea fowl with rosti potato. For the added wow factor a bustling cocktail bar serves everything from local ales, beers and ciders to the latest trend gins and cocktails. There is also an extensive wine list that appeals to all tastes and preferences. Do traditional with a twist at The Crown!

The Reindeer Pub & Kitchen, Norwich, Norfolk Tel: 01603 612995 | www.thereindeerpub.co.uk Price: ££ Good to know: Ask for the wine of the month With a bar that boasts over 22 craft beers and an emphasis on good British produce, The Reindeer is a fantastic spot for any food and beer lover. This gastropub’s Sunday menu favourites include the topside of Hevingham beef, the Norfolk chicken supreme and the Norfolk Dingley Dell Pork leg all with roast trimmings and gravy. Along with the Sunday menu comes a carefully selected wine of the month to complement your food.

The Wildebeest, Norwich, Norfolk Tel: 01508 492497 | thewildebeest.co.uk Price: £££ Good to know: AA rosette!

The Barns Hotel, Bedford, Bedfordshire Tel: 01234 270044 | barnshotelbedford.co.uk Price: ££

Finalists in the Norfolk food and drink awards 2017 offer exquisite smoked venison, cornfed chicken and English beef in a red wine jus. Presentation is key at the Wildebeest and not a dish goes out that doesn’t look as good as it tastes. Interiors are as high standard as the plates.

Good to know: Little ones under 2 years old go free Spend a well-earned Sunday in the comfort of the beautiful river facing restaurant. Created with the finest, seasonal produce, it is argued that the Barns offers the best Sunday banquet in Bedford. Enjoy a selection of fresh salads, artisan breads, cured meats and seafood which will be followed by a choice of traditional roasts or indulgent sharing platter. All roasts are accompanied by duck fat roast potatoes, cheddar cauliflower cheese, wine braised red cabbage, honey roasted root vegetables and a saucière of gravy. For those who enjoy a glass of wine, they have an extensive wine list for you to choose from, so finding the perfect match will be easy!

The Bricklayers Arms, Flaunden, Hertfordshire Tel: 01442 833322 | www.bricklayersarms.com Price: £££ Good to know: AA Rosette! The freshest organic produce from local suppliers is used where possible to make up the award winning menu. It’s listed in The Good Pub Guide 2018 as “County Dining Pub of The Year” (a five time winner). You really are spoilt for choice on the meat front; chicken, beef, pork, lamb or duck. With beautiful surrounding countryside and nearby country walks over the rolling hills of the Chess Valley. You will enjoy the cosy atmosphere when you step inside the rustic low oak beam interior full of character with its brick bar and real log fire. It even has a celebrity fanbase including Mark Wahlberg!

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Hospital treatment without the wait. By paying for the hospital treatment you need, you can avoid the wait and go straight to feeling better faster. Nuffield Health. Specialists in you. Join us for one of our FREE open events at Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital Worried about your Hernia? Thursday 1st February 2018 · 7.00pm Considering Vision Correction or Cataract Surgery? Tuesday 6th February 2018 · 6.30pm Thinking about Cosmetic Surgery? Thursday 22nd February 2018 · 6.30pm Considering Ear Pinning or Nose Reshaping? Thursday 22nd February 2018 · 6.30pm Places are limited and booking is essential. Book online at nuffieldhealth.com/book or call 01277 886 706 Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital Shenfield Road Brentwood Essex CM15 8EH

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Health

NEW YEAR NEW YOU

s we welcome in 2018 it’s out with the old and in with the new for many of us, pledging to get fit, eat healthy, live less stressful lives or take up a new hobby and stick with it. We’re here to help with ideas for people wanting to start the New Year off on the right foot with our ideas for new hobbies and health kicks across the East…

Push the pedals in Bedford

Written by Liz Jane Mattock

Bag a decent road bike and cycle the New Year in and burn off some of those Christmas calories at the same time. Join a cycling club. Bedford has quite a few clubs, including Bedfordshire Road Cycling Club located in Cardington. There are events for kids, adults, beginners and pro and with membership starting from just £5, it’s a cheap and fun way to get active and meet new people in 2018. For more information visit https://www.bedsroad.org/index.php or contact the club via the online email form.

Tee off in St Ives, Cambridgeshire Tee off in style at St Ives Golf Club in 2018. Did you retire in 2017 or perhaps you are just looking for a new hobby in the New Year – make golf your thing! Membership fees are charged depending on age and experience. Starting from £30 for a cadet membership and £765 for a full membership, which entitles the member to 18 holes, practice facilities, tournaments, well supported ladies and senior sections, in club matches and a professional shop for all your golfing needs. Visit www.stivesgolfclub.co.uk, call 01480 499920 or email the club manager at manager@stivesgolfclub.co.uk. Application forms are also available online.

Cook in Cambridge So, you have finished off the fourth tub of chocolates, you’re cheesed off with cheese and your blood sugar has hit the ceiling thanks to all those candied fruits and sweets - you have now vowed to eat healthy. Why not sign up to a healthy eating cookery course? With different courses, most days of the week from, ‘food for wellbeing’ to ‘gloriously gluten free’, enrolling in a course which lets you get hands on could keep you on the right track. Check out cambridgecookery.com/ cook/classes and see if anything tickles your taste buds. All the dates and courses can be found on the online calendar.

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07973 230293

Independent Diabetes Trust HBK Leisure Get your New Year’s Resolution in early.

ASK FOR YOUR FREE COPY TODAY Telephone:

01604 622837 Email:

martin@iddtinternational.org Charity Number: 1058284 Registered Number: 3148360

For a limited time only we have a ‘Buy One, Get One Free’* on our Annual Membership Join with a friend before 8th January, 2018 and only pay £250 (£125 each) for a whole years membership! *Offer is limited to the first 50 people, so don’t delay, join today

Hinchingbrooke School’s Community Sports Facilities Phone: 01480 420531 Email: HBKLeisure@hinchbk.cambs.sch.uk www.hinchingbrookeschool.net/hbkleisure

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Our customers say our jewellery and accessories help with headaches/migraines, menopause/night sweats, sleeping/tiredness, arthritis/aches pains, and many other health challenges too! Please contact me to discuss your needs, and I would be delighted to hear from you.

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Chill in Chelmsford, Essex Looking for peace of mind, body and soul? Look no further than Yoga at the Mill. Classes are designed for everyone of all ages. Become a ‘yogi’ over a six week course which will help you strengthen your core muscles, relax your mind and improve your overall mental and physical health. If you are a gym-goer or runner already, yoga could benefit you too, as research shows that people who practice yoga are less likely to develop a sports related injury. In addition, the Mill offers yoga for anxiety, sleep and relaxation. Classes are even tailored to young people who might be experiencing exam stress. For more information visit www.yogaatthemill.co.uk

Get walking in Norfolk Join a walking club - it’s as easy as putting one foot in front of the other! Visit Ramblers online at www.ramblers.org.uk/norfolk for a full list of walking groups that anyone of any age or ability can join. Why not join more than one? There are groups that cover Fakenham, Great Yarmouth, Kings Lynn, Norwich and Sheringham; so whether you fancy a coastal stroll or a rural ramble there is something to suit everyone.

Become mindful in Peterborough Remember mental health is just as important as physical health and one of the most popular relaxation techniques people are turning to is mindfulness or tuning into the now. According to Dr Andrea Woods and Jennifer Cramb, the creators behind a new eight-week programme in Peterborough, say: “learning mindfulness practices and principles will not make the everyday challenges disappear, but it can help us to step off the treadmill out of the daily flow of demands to create a fresh perspective.” The next programme will start 16 January at West Town Primary Academy, Peterborough. The course will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6.30pm – 8.00pm. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/breathingspacepeterborough

Battle it out in a military class, various locations British Military Fitness may sound like something not for the faint hearted, however you couldn’t be more wrong. With weekday and weekend one hour sessions taking place at hundreds of parks across England, Scotland and Wales all led by ex-military men and women to get the most out of your fitness abilities, it’s a fantastic place to make new friends and improve your fitness level without the restraint of the gym. All the answers to your questions can be found at www.britmilﬁt.com, and at the moment you can even take advantage of a free session. Using a mixture of running, HIIT and military style training it really is serious fun without even having to say ‘Sir, yes sir!’ – we can’t promise there won’t be a few press ups though!

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Work

it out

Written by Liz Mattock

kip, hop and jump into a healthier lifestyle in 2018 with our pick of the region’s best gyms

The chocolates are finished, the drinks cabinet is empty and you have finally finished off the last box of candied fruits that no one likes anyway but you have to have them because it’s Christmas. So, what next? You have decided to get fit in 2018 and sign up for a gym membership, however you don’t know your dumbbell from your treadmill, how to get the best offer or whether to opt for a personal trainer, group classes or find your own way? We are here to make sure you sign up to the right package for you.

Core Fitness, Norwich | Rose Lane, NR1 1BY The gym describes itself as a ‘feel-good’ gym and offers smaller fitness classes with big tunes and big moves. Created by celebrity personal trainer Sam Bird, the gym has a night club feel to boost members energy as well as their mood before cooling down and fuelling up with a vast choice of post-workout protein shakes and smoothies. Complimentary coffee and chilled towels are also available and included in the membership. New for 2018 are yoga classes and social nights such as a ladies’ fitness wear catwalk show. Membership starts from £27 per month or you can pay as you go from as little as £5 per session. Find out more www.trainwithcore.co.uk

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énergie Fitness Ipswich | Rosehill Retail Park, Felixstowe Road, IP3 9BG At the end of last year, énergie Fitness expanded its franchise and opened the doors to its high-tec gym in Ipswich. énergie Fitness hosts a full range of cardio, resistance and free-weights equipment catering for experienced gym users, those who are new to exercise and everyone in-between. The new gym will be only the second site in the UK to introduce thé Yard, énergie’s new high intensity training ‘playground’. thé Yard brings a series of all-inclusive classes to transform the way members train and significantly diversify the gym experience. Designed as group sessions, thé Yard classes combine a high intensity, fun and challenging routine. More details at www.energiefitness.com/ipswich

Kiss Gym, Milton Keynes | Roebuck Way, MK5 8HL

Livia Club, Colchester | Moorside, CO1 2TJ

Kitted out with the latest high-tech equipment in modern surroundings, the gym offers memberships with no lengthy contract from just £15.99 per month. All classes are also included in the price, including Zumba, Spin, Yoga, Pilates and the latest trends including Thai boxing, Pump FX and Stomp FX – all aimed at getting you fit, fast. Highly qualified personal trainers will be on hand to support you through every step of your fitness journey. Find out more at www.kissgyms.com

An ideal place to start if you are female, haven’t been to a gym before and are a little nervous about being confronted with men and their abs of steel. Livia offers women a sophisticated women-only setting to reach their fitness goals, with an air resistance workout area, cardio suite, functional training area as well as a member’s lounge with free hot drinks and air conditioning throughout.

NRG Fitness, Stowmarket | Creeting Road West, IP14 5AT Energising the local area in 2018, the gym is offering its members an impressive kitted out cardio and freeweight area as well as the latest fitness classes thrown in. Fightklub, Metafit and Clubbercise are to name but a few of the latest classes in town. Fitness blogger and creator of Grenade J Carbkilla protein bars, Jamie Alderton, just can’t get enough of this style of fitness. No contract memberships at affordable prices are on offer and can be tailored to your needs. It is time to get kitted up and get yourself down there to have a tour of the facilities with no obligation to join. Visit www.nrg-fitness.co.uk

Kelsey Kerridge, Cambridge | Queen Anne Terrace, CB1 1NA The gym is offering its customers a whole suite of indoor sports, gym and fitness activities. From Insanity workouts to Thighs, Bums and Tums, there is something for everyone; beginners, intermediates and hard core gym addicts alike. It’s not just the great view of Parker’s Piece that make this gym extra special, the centre also brings outdoor pursuits in, offering archery, climbing, cricket and martial arts to name but a few. Leave the kids at a Saturday morning class while you hit the gym and your partner hits some classes. Memberships start from £30 per month for a bronze package, £25 for students and £20 for concessions. With so much choice you’ll never get bored of the ‘usual’ gym routine. www.kelseykerridge.co.uk

Twelve month memberships start at £32.50 with rolling memberships starting from £40 per month, some of which include free personal training sessions, especially for the 2018 so you get the most out of your training time. Visit www.liviaclub.co.uk for full details. After all the hard work you could always book into the onsite beauty salon for some well-earned relaxation and pampering.

Average Joe’s Gym, Hertfordshire | Broxbourne, EN10 6SU We have found it, the ideal place for the ‘average Joe’ at Average Joe’s Gym. Decorated out in neon colours to give users a feel-good vibe, this place offers members a full cardio suite, weights area, classes, sun beds and health supplement suite to complement health and vitality. This gym also specialises in TRX suspension training. Born in the Navy SEALs, this exercise technique develops strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. It requires the use of the TRX Suspension Trainer, a highly portable performance training tool that leverages gravity and the user’s body weight to complete 100s of exercises. Current offers include an opportunity for couples to sign up together for just £45 per month and special packages for those over 50 which will be running into 2018. Visit www.averagejoesgymnasium.com to find out more.

Vivacity Gym, Peterborough | Calyburn Road, PE7 8GL A gym, spa and wellness centre with a twist. It is a not-for-profit charity which means it also supports the local community with its local lido and community sports activities as well as its loyal members. So, not only do you get all the modern equipment, classes and training associated with a normal gym but by signing up, you can become part of a community as well as part of an organisation that supports disabled sports in the community, swimming, including dementia-friendly swimming and classes for all abilities including a sensory pool. There are also discounts for gym members in the health and wellbeing spa ‘Radiance’. Memberships start from just £28 a month with no lengthy contracts. Visit www.vivacity-peterborough.com/sport

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Quantum-Directory-advert.pdf 1 30/10/2017 11:45:21

Providing high quality care in comfortable homely surroundings. All homes are committed to preserving family values in a safe, friendly environment; Quantum Care understand the importance of the little things in life and our staﬀ will always go that extra mile to make life as enjoyable and fulﬁlling as possible for all our residents and day centre members.

Our Care Homes oﬀer: Dedicated and well trained staﬀ, providing person-centred care. Comfortable surroundings with both indoor and outdoor facilities. A variety of events and activities to participate in as well as planned outings and live entertainment. C

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of a good care home

e ask the experts: “What makes a good care home?”

With so many options across East Anglia, choosing the right care home for a loved one can be a daunting task. However, there should be key factors that stand out. To help you get a better understanding of what to look for we spoke to some of the region’s leading care providers. Quality of care and engagement In November last year, Quantum care opened the doors to its latest care home, Anson Court in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. A 75-bed home offering residential, dementia, respite and day care for older people in the community. Its focus is on providing a high quality of care, which is demonstrated by staff, the services and facilities available – rooms are fully furnished with en-suite shower, flatscreen TV, wifi and there’s even a café and hairdressing salon! Maria Ball, Quantum Care chief executive said: “Our residents are at the heart of all we do. We work closely with families, friends and our staff to ensure that we are always providing the best possible standard of care, which is tailored to the individual needs of each person. From our staff training and development programme, to investing in dementia-specialist virtual reality technology, we strive to ensure that Hertfordshire benefits from the most professional carers and the finest services in the UK.” Ensure information is clear and concise There’s a lot of information that comes with choosing a care home, and it can be quite overwhelming. However, Andrew Long, CEO of Oakdale Care Group, which opens Layston Grove, in Buntingford in March 2018, suggests that a sign of a good care home is “clear and easy access to information about the home – in particular ratings from other residents and their families specifically via the UK’s

most recognised care sector rating site – Carehome.co.uk. If the care home you are looking at is favourably and consistently rated well, then that is a good early indication of quality.” He believes price structures and what is included should be crystal clear. “If dialogue around fees is opaque then you should be wary. The chances are the operator is trying to assess how much they can push you on price. Good operators publish their fee structure up front and will provide you with a clear resident’s guide as to the home’s services and what is included. The best care homes today are often not charging extras,” explained Andrew. The team The staff play a vital role in the running of a good care home. Angela Hodge, who works for Care UK and spends a lot of her time talking to people looking for a care home place, says: “Walking into a care home, take note of your first impressions: is it warm, inviting and welcoming? Look at all the facilities available. Look at the team. Are they compassionate, do they engage with the residents, do they support relatives, are they trained, experienced and able to cope? Our teams are fully-trained and have regular appraisals to ensure their skills match the developing and changing needs of the residents they support.” With the help and advice from East Anglia’s leading care professionals, research and visits, you will find the right care home for your requirements.

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Winter White

Fashion

Written by Ruth Essex

hen there is a sprinkling of frost in the morning, my sartorial thoughts turn to white; beautiful, soft, winter white. So many dark clothes abound in winter that if you do want to stand out from the crowd all you need to do is lighten up.

The exact shade of white that is most flattering on you depends predominately on your skin tone. Whites range from the brilliant, icy whites with a bluish tinge to the warmer, yellow based, oyster creams. The warmer your skin, the more creamy you can go, and for cooler skins, a clear, bright white tends to be more flattering. The joy of winter white is that it is white softened by a hint of ivory so flatters nearly all skin tones: it is neither cool nor warm, but somewhere in the middle.

Duvet Puffa, priced ÂŁ75, www.missselfridge.com

Those silver foxes, platinum blondes, cool brunettes and raven haired beauties out there look brilliant in crisp and cool brilliant whites, sharp and icy, contrasted with deep navies and black or soft dove greys. However, if you have warmth in your hair, eyes or skin, then ivory and cream is the way to go to enhance your natural beauty. Your whites will be creamier, and you will look fabulous complimenting your winter white with camels, toffee and chocolate. Winter white is a neutral colour, so you need to think about texture to maximise the impact. Think of chunky Aran jumpers that are full of interesting patterns, twists and turns in the wool. What about angora with its slightly fluffy, hazy texture? You can add an ivory camisole for the added luxury of a satin feel against your skin. Or cream lace blouse? Or a silk night gown in oyster? You can play with furry collars with a hint of silver for cools or honeyed white for warmer tones. This adds softness around your face and lighter colours tend to be more lifting; rather like the soft glow of candle light.

Oliver Bonas scarf, priced ÂŁ28

Winter is a time for snuggling up with loved ones and wearing softer touchable textures makes you more approachable too. There is no better time than winter to reward ourselves by wearing something decadent, so why not just indulge and enjoy? Ruth Essex is an image consultant based in Great Dunmow, Essex. Tel: 07900 910 666 | ruthcrofts@btinternet.com

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Seventies chic “Seventies chic was never out, with that classic flared trouser shape, now cropped to allow a decent flash of boot with a chunky heel,” she says. “The biggest surprise comeback however has been the resurgence of corduroy. Geography teacher cord, with its corn row weave and dressing-for-comfort connotations is this season’s biggest hitter. Vintage cord is über cool of course, but there are plenty of new styles to choose from including ultra-flared trousers and the classic A-line maxi, both in finest needle cord. Fashion can always be said to be a reinvention, a restyle of an old favourite, but who would have guessed that allotment chic would get serious? “In my opinion the look to go for is a battered corduroy jacket, one that has been lived in, the pile having soaked up a mixture of cigarette smoke and diesel fumes.”

Have fun with fringing

Step into

2018

in style

esigner Tina Malhame looks at what to wear this winter and suggests dressing for the tropics. Multi-award winning designer Tina Malhamé was branded ‘The best designer on the high street’ by the fashion king George Davis, whom she worked alongside for years. Principal designer for favourite UK brands including Per Una, Monsoon, Next and Laura Ashley, she launched her own label NoLogo Chic in 2011. With plenty of experience in the fashion industry we could think of no one better to give us a heads up on this year’s trends.

“For the super brave- there is a fringing thing going on. A fringe, as an embellishment was seen on handbags last season, from beach totes to cross body purses as well as on the arms of classic suede jackets. This season, they are on everything. The catwalks featured slinky dresses with hem fringing down to the floor, kicking up as the model walked. We are also seeing elaborately fringed coat hems and accessories. Retailers will be likely to moderate this exuberant flourish and so look out for items with a more subtle display of fringing, perhaps on the pockets.”

“Who would have guessed that allotment chic would get serious?” Back to nature “Florals will remain popular for spring summer 2018. I have added to my patterns with huge wild and wonderful zebras and cheetahs which peep from behind banana leaves! Monkeys and leopards hide within vivid green foliage. Often this madness is a base for further decoration with beads and ethnic embroidery laid on top. Whacky? You bet. There is also an essence of Florida in the 1960’s. “Simple lines, simple shapes. There are maxi lengths evoking glam leisure, shorter hems to show off lucky sun kissed legs, but possibly the favourite is a length somewhere in-between. Useful for just about every situation, cocktails, sightseeing, lunch by the beach or just because you love it.”

If you’re lucky enough to be getting some winter sun check out NoloGo’s brand new Resort 2018 Collection at nologo-chic.co.uk eastlife.co.uk

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Weddings

Picture by Dominic Whiten

lanning a 2018 wedding or getting ahead of the game for 2019? Get started here with our top wedding fayres and events in your local area...

Bride: The Wedding Show at Knebworth Barns, 6-7 January Knebworth House, Old Knebworth Lane, Knebworth SG1 2AX Meet a large variety of local wedding businesses in person, enjoy the catwalk show in the designated barn taking place three times daily at 11.30am, 1.15pm and 3pm displaying the finest gowns, menswear and guest-wear, and get lost in the abundance of inspiration and ideas on offer. www.knebworthhouse.com The Apex Wedding Fair, 6 January The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD Over 50 exhibitors and goodie bags on arrival. Plus, extra gifts and samples to the first 50 brides. www.theapex.co.uk

Woburn Wedding Fair, 18 January Sculpture Gallery, Woburn Abbey and Gardens, Woburn, MK17 9WA An opportunity to view the venue, meet with the team and discuss ideas with local suppliers including flowers, cakes, cars, photography and more. www.woburnweddings.co.uk

King’s Lynn Wedding Festival, 14 January King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, PE30 1JW Over 40 top wedding suppliers who will have everything you need to help plan your special day. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

Picture by Dominic Whiten | Bruisyard Hall

Hylands House

Hylands House, 21 January, 10am-4pm London Road, Writtle, Chelmsford CM2 8WQ The Georgian Garde II* listed mansion will be opening its doors for a Wedding Preview Day. You’ll be able to view the venue and talk with the wedding team. www.hylandsestateweddings.co.uk

The Newmarket Wedding Show, 21 January, 11am-4pm Rowley Mile Racecourse, Newmarket, CB8 0TF Around 130 suppliers from the surrounding areas of Suffolk and Cambridgeshire will be available to browse. There will be a bridal fashion show, demonstrations, entertainment as well as tips and ideas throughout the day. www.TheNewmarketWeddingShow.co.uk Bruisyard Hall, 28 January, 10am-2pm Bruisyard IP17 2EJ A chance to view the venue and accommodation, meet the team and browse suppliers. Canapés and free Prosecco for the first 50 guests. Everyone will receive a goodie bag to take away. www.bruisyardhall.com

eastlife.co.uk

Grab your

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Wedding Fayre

WOBURN BRIDAL For the modern bride

Thursday 15th February 2018 SAVE THE DATE

A Unique Venue Set amongst 120 acres of Suffolk Countryside close the Suffolk Coast, we pride ourselves in offering a unique venue which gives exclusive use to you and your guests. PERFECT FOR WEDDINGS | CIVIL CEREMONIES STAG & HEN EVENTS | LODGE ACCOMMODATION Feel free to visit the website for more information, alternatively pop down to see us. We’re located just off the A12 near Blythburgh, not far from Southwold, Suffolk IP17 3QT.

Photo courtesy of Sarah Brookes Photography

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THE SCULPTURE GALLERY WOBURN ABBEY

Set in the beautiful grounds of Woburn Abbey, The Sculpture Gallery, constructed during 1789 and 1790 for the fifth Duke of Bedford with its own private rose garden and lake is one of the most majestic and elegant settings imaginable for wedding ceremonies and receptions up to 250 guests with exclusive use of the venue. The Sculpture Gallery provides the perfect backdrop to create those all important special memories

Woburn Wedding Fair - Sunday 18th Feb 10.30am -3.30pm For further information please call 01525 292172 or visit www.woburnweddings.co.uk Woburn Abbey, Woburn, Bedfordshire MK17 9WA

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Consumer

Martin Lewis Talks...

Are you missing out on a council tax discount?

p to 100,000 of the most vulnerable people in society are missing out on a council tax discount worth £100s or £1,000s – as little is known about it, and some councils are giving out misinformation. It’s time to change that.

If you have, or know someone living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s or other similar conditions – it’s important you take five minutes now to read about the Severely Mentally Impaired (SMI) council tax discount.

This discount typically saves people £400/year Like students, those who qualify for the SMI discount are disregarded for council tax purpose. That means those living alone don’t pay any council tax at all, while those living with another - often their carer - qualify for a 25% reduction. This is worth an average of £400/year. In some cases, it’s also possible to get the discount backdated. Though it’s up to individual councils whether they allow this – so it’s a postcode lottery. Personally, due to the range of misinformation that’s given out on this (as I run through below), I think the rules need changing so that all councils backdate it.

Who’s eligible? For someone to qualify for a SMI council tax discount, both of the following must apply: 1) They must be medically certified as having a severe mental impairment. This is not specific to any particular medical condition – it is officially defined as someone who has “a severe impairment of intelligence and social functioning (however caused) which appears to be permanent.” So it’s not a question of someone having dementia or Parkinson’s automatically qualifying. Some will, some won’t. It’s up to a GP to decide and they will have to sign the form (which they should not charge you to do).

2) They must be eligible for one of a range of benefits. These include; incapacity benefit, disability living allowance, personal independence payments, severe disablement allowance, income support, constant attendance allowance, disability working allowance, some forms of universal credit and others. Just to be clear, some councils wrongly tell people they need to be receiving these benefits. That’s not correct – the law simply says you need to be eligible for them – this may well act as a prompt to claim them too.

Tool up before you apply to the council, misinformation is rife It is quite likely the person who has the SMI will not be able to claim themselves, in which case their carer can do it for them. You’ll need to fill out a claim form from your council to register for the discount. Find contact details at www.gov.uk/apply-council-tax-reduction. More help and guidance is available if you’re struggling with this at charities including www. citizensadvice.org.uk, www.dementiauk.org www.carersuk.org or www.alzheimers.org.uk. Do let me know via twitter @martinslewis how you do on this. 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.

eastlife.co.uk

Motoring

CITROEN C3 Aircross

Written by Sue Cooke - Twitter @cookecars

find January a really depressing time of year. My mood takes a big dip after the celebrations of Christmas. Going out in wintry weather is discouraging, as is the 4% rise in train travel from this month! But there is a shining light of radiant youth and glorious colour sitting on my drive. The new Citroen C3 Aircross. Lucky buyers of this compact SUV can choose 85 exterior colour combinations and three roof colours for the contemporary looking two-tone model. The body styling is underscored by strong graphic features such as touches of colour on the roof bars, and the ‘Venetian Blind’ rear quarter-lights. Apart from lifting the senses, my kids said the colours made the car easy to spot at the crowded pick-up point at school. I also appreciated the ‘in your face’ styling when as per usual, I forgot where I’d parked it in the supermarket. Also a capable off roader, the C3 Aircross has raised ground clearance, elevated driving position, front and rear skid plates, large wheels and wheel arch extensions. Ready for adventures on the steepest of slopes, this SUV has Hill Descent Assist and Grip Control which will provide safety during any escapade which life throws at us - snow, mud or sand. January sales are easily catered for with a massive boot which holds 410 litres that increases to a huge 1,289 litres with seats laid flat. Rear seats are split and will slide and fold individually in the very airy and spacious cabin. A continuous 360-degree glazed area and an opening panoramic sunroof which fills the cabin with light help with great visibility all round. I found the C3 Aircross has lots of leg space and storage space in the interior and a huge amount of technology like Wireless Smart phone charging, used for the first time in a Citroen model. The 12 different technologies which all help to ease congestion infested journeys, include voice controlled 3D navigation, a colour Head-up Display, Speed Sign Recognition and Recommendation, keyless entry and

FACTS AT A G L A N C E

MODEL: Citroen C3 Aircross Compact SUV Flair PRICE: £19,200 otr ENGINE: Pure Tech 110 auto transmission PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 11.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 114mph CO2 EMISSIONS: 126g/km COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 50.4 mpg

start, a reversing camera, Intelligent Beam Headlights and best of all, a system that helps you to park! The C3 Aircross has three trim levels Touch, Feel and Flair, the latter of which will be the best seller and buyers can choose five different interior colours and trim. There are also efficient, high-performance PureTech petrol and BlueHDi diesel engines, as well as the latest generation EAT6 fully automatic gearbox. Seventy-five per cent of buyers will choose petrol. No surprise there then as the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders latest figures show that sales are falling as confusion over diesel impacts the market. Citroen has sold 15,000 C3 cars in the UK and design has been a strong and powerful choice with 95% of buyers choosing the two-tone paintwork. So the brand expects that the wealth of colour options offered with the C3 Aircross will deliver 13,200 registrations for the new model this year (2018). Pricing starts from £13,995 OTR.

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THE ANNEX

THE ANNEX: HANDMADE KITCHENS IN NORWICH The Annex originated 20 years ago. As interest grew and the company expanded, The Annex began to focus on bespoke kitchen design and manufacture. Voted Best Home Ware Shop recently by an independent body. 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.

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

Home & Garden

New Year NEW LOOK I

t’s a new year, a time of out with the old and in with the new, so it comes as no surprise that January is the most popular month of the year for home improvements. Whether you’re putting your house on the market or are looking for some budgetfriendly interior updates we have ideas on how to breathe new life into your home…

eastlife.co.uk

We are professional and high quality builders based in Washbrook just outside Ipswich. Some of the areas we tend to cover outside of Ipswich are Woodbridge, Sudbury, Dedham, Hadheigh, Southwald and Bury St Edmunds. Please give us a call even if you think you’re too far away as you might be pleasantly surprised. As a well established builder in Ipswich, John Cowling Carpenter & Builder offers all aspects of building work including extensions, loft conversions, renovations, roofing, joinery and much more. As period property restoration specialists we have a lot of experience in working with listed buildings and properties located in conservation areas. All our workers are fully qualified and we have many satisfied customer testimonials. As professional and reliable builders in Ipswich we offer a very professional service and all our estimates are competitive and we will always do our best to match your exact requirements. We specialise in most building work including loft conversions, garage conversions, extensions, renovations, the design and installation of kitchens and bathrooms, plumbing, electrics, basically everything to do with improving your home!

Brook View, Pigeons Lane, Washbrook, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP8 3HQ.

07970 259723 www.builderipswich.com j.cowling10@hotmail.co.uk

IS YOUR CONSERVATORY ROOF LEAKING? Is it freezing in the winter & roasting in the summer? Noisy when it rains?

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From floor lamps to chandeliers we're find something to help you cosy At Witchford Lighting Centre we can turnsure you'll We cater for every home, from the ultraup on these dark Winter your dreams into realityevenings. with our bespoke modern new build home to the traditional We also Lighting supply and fit outdoor something Design Service. lights, so if you're periodlooking propertyfor and everythingdecorative in between. orFrom evenconception security lighting for that extra peace of mind during the winter months to installation, all our So if you want cutting edge design orwhy a not come and visit our extensive showroom. work is carried out by a fully qualified Napit traditionally styled centre piece we can create We also offer a bespoke design service, and the undertake all electrical work. registered electrician and lighting designer. exact ambience you are looking for.

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We are sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the perfect lighting for your home. We also offer the following services: Fitting service Bespoke lighting design service All electrical work undertaken

Unit 2J Merlin Court, Lancaster Way Business Park, Witchford. CB6 3GN

www.witchfordlighting.co.uk For more information or to book your bespoke lighting design consultation,

Tel: 01353 664108

Emergency call-out: 07776 254853

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If you’ve pledged to focus on yourself as your New Year’s resolution, then creating a home you love can be a good place to start. Recent research by furniture123.co.uk found that one in four Brits admit their home is in a constant state of re-decoration, with 55 per cent saying they have a room in their house that currently needs decorating. If this sounds like you then the New Year is the perfect opportunity to make a start as there are bargains galore as prices on furnishings and fittings are slashed in the sales. Redecorating the whole home can be expensive, but thankfully there are some quick fixes which can make all the difference. Read our guide to the latest décor trends room by room…

Make an entrance First impressions are everything, and this is certainly true of your home. The exterior of your home is the first impression guests and potential homebuyers will have of your style so make it count! A new front door can dramatically change the appearance of your home. Security and insulation are the key factors to consider, but colour and style will largely depend on the architecture of your home. Door prices can vary depending on the supplier but most start from around £1,000. Photo by Richard Burbidge www.richardburbidge.co.uk

FACT BOX

How often do you decorate the following rooms on average?* • Lounge/living room – every 25 months • Bedroom – every 29 months • Bathroom – every 33 months • 4 Dining room – every 37 months • Hallways – every 45 months *figures according to furniture123.co.uk survey of 1,000 homeowners

A lovely lounge Colour is making a comeback! Last year living interiors hinted at the use of vibrant colours, playing with a mix of textures and materials. Jewel colours were reserved for only the brave but we predict (with the help of some expert advice), that 2018 will be the year we turn our back on muted natural tones and embrace bold and vibrant shades to create a warm and cosy atmosphere in the home. Kathryn Lloyd, Crown Decorating Centres colour expert says: “The days of selecting a single colour for a room are gone – and now the discerning home designer expects a palette of complementary colours to express their personality and flair. ‘Intrigue’ is a story waiting to unfold...think midnight, mystery and suspense. These dark, intense jewel-like colours create an atmospheric feel complemented by the hints of yellow ochre and dappled candlelight.”

Stylish stairs Staircases may be a permanent fixture in our homes, but updating their look and feel is much easier than might you think. A stylish hallway can make a real style statement in any home, however, more often than not, this part of the home is neglected, used as a dumping ground by the kids and the bottom of the priority list when it comes to redecorating. There are few simple home improvements which can transform this part of the home, according to Richard Burbidge, which offers renovation tools for updating your stairway. They suggest upgrading the handrail and spindle designs on your staircase, a quick and easy process that can make a real difference to your home. In many cases, it can be completed as a DIY project in less than a weekend.

Photo by DFS and Joules collection

eastlife.co.uk

Classic Fireplaces

1986

EST | MANUFACTURE | INSTALLATION

Classic Fireplaces Stove and Gas Fire Installation Specialist

FIREPLACE DESIGN

1986

| MANUFACTURE FIREPLACE DESIGN Complete Flue Systems and Chimney Lining Service | INSTALLATION Stove and Gas Fire Installation Specialist Complete Flue Systems and Chimney Lining Service

See an extensive range of solid wood, natural stone and marble fireplaces with working gas and See electric fires in our showrooms. Wenatural offer an extensive range of solid wood, a large range of multi-fuel and log-burning stone and marble fireplaces with working gas andalso electric in our We offer stoves, on fires display in showrooms. our showrooms. a large range of multi-fuel and log-burning  Allstoves, our fireplaces are manufactured in our own also on display in our showrooms. factories by trained craftsmen

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 No standard all fireplaces factories sizes, by trained craftsmen made to measure  survey No standard sizes, allprior fireplaces made to measure  Full completed to installation  Full survey completed installation  Removal/disposal of yourprior old to fireplace and appliance available of your old fireplace and  Removal/disposal appliance available

 No chimney? No problem with the Balance flue,  No chimney? No problem Balance flue, Powerflue and Flue-less Gaswith Firethe range Powerflue and Flue-less Gas Fire range

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Visitour ourshowroom showroom or 347267 Visit orcall call01778 01778 347267

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One of the biggest trends of 2018 will be a bold sofa. A great way to make a style statement, sofas have had a makeover with bright colours, rich velvets and floral but subtle patterns popping up in stylish homes across the nation. Defining the trend is DFS’ latest sofa collaboration with premium British lifestyle brand, Joules. The first of its kind, this collection puts colourful twists on the classics with a range of country, coastal and colour-inspired sofas, armchairs and footstools. Each piece has been designed to embody the quality, Britishness, colour and humour that makes Joules stand out from the crowd.

“Feature walls actually work really well in bathrooms and are also a really simple, time-efficient way to inject modern designs into the room – popular looks for feature walls include industrial looking wallpapers including whitewashed wood panels and bare brick, as well as metallic finishes to complement chrome hardware.” If you have the cash to splash, intricate basin pedestals and high level cisterns are ideal for a period style makeover. Luxurious and stylish, freestanding baths are having a moment. To complete the characterful look, finish with traditional taps.

The collection provides a contemporary update on timeless coastal and country looks. For a stylish refresh, choose the elegance of the Windsor chesterfield or the subtle stripes of the Burnham coastal inspired corner sofa. Whilst the quirky partridge print Ilkley and the floral print Cambridge are perfect for a bold injection of print and colour.

Make a splash A survey by www.mybuilder.com revealed that two of thirds of people are unhappy with their bathroom. Low shower pressure, separate hot and cold taps and a flush that doesn’t work properly were among the top pet peeves. A costly project, a bathroom refurb can often be pushed to the bottom of the priority list, but why should it? It’s a room you use every day, and done well, it can become a place of serenity. If you don’t have a huge budget, try a few quick fixes such as adding a splash of colour. Like in living spaces, bathrooms will also be embracing a colourful palette. Dark sanitary ware combined with bright walls and accessories will create a dramatic look. If you’re not brave enough for colour, change fixtures and fittings to brass or copper for an on-trend look. Not the obvious choice for a bathroom, wallpaper is great for an instant update. Head of design at I Want Wallpaper, Alex Whitecroft offers his advice: “Wallpaper can breathe new life into a bathroom with the added bonus that it’s easier to replace than more permanent wall decoration (like tiles) when it’s time for a refresh and there are some fabulous designs – from faux brick to tropical fish.

Love your kitchen The heart of most homes is the kitchen. With our busy lives, it’s important to create a space that works with our family needs. Functionality is key. If you feel your kitchen is need of a little TLC, update your appliances for a relatively cheap overhaul – brass kettles and toasters are on-trend this season. If there’s no budget available, tidying and organising cupboards can really help restore order in the kitchen. Organise shelving, clean inside the cupboards and donate unused but in date food to local food banks. If you have a big budget to blow, extending the home to create a large kitchen and family space is worth the investment. On a smaller scale, change worktops for an on-trend marble look or add an island for extra storage.

Sweet dreams A personal space to relax and unwind, bedroom interiors offer the opportunity to express personality. From bold and bright colour schemes to soft and subtle greys, the bedroom is your chance to create the atmosphere you feel most relaxed, which will be different for all of us. British bedding brand Appletree, recently revealed that people’s bedroom style shows common personality characteristics. The survey revealed that those who chose floral and paisley patterns were sensitive and had strong values while those who opted for clean, white, minimalist styles were organised, open minded and easily distracted. The bedroom is perhaps one of the easiest rooms to update. New bedding will give it a fresh new look (choose a high thread Egyptian cotton for a little indulgence), while a new colour scheme can be created through the use of cushions and throws.

Photo by www.iwantwallpaper.co.uk

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Manufacturing Stunning Windows & Conservatories since 1985 • WINDOWS • CONSERVATORIES • COMPOSITE DOORS • TIMBER DOORS • ROLLER SHUTTER GARAGE DOORS • CANOPIES Let us help you keep the cold out this winter!

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Bespoke and Made to Measure Shutters and Blinds Competitive prices Home measuring and fitting service Quality materials Expert friendly advice

free no obligation quotes family run business Suffolk Blinds Company, Stowmarket Road, Rattlesden, Suffolk IP30 0RR Tel: 01449 736 909 | Mob: 07979 550 204 www.suffolkblinds.com

Design - Paving - Driveways Decking - Fencing - Turfing Planting - and Much More FREE Quotations and Fully Insured 30 mile radius of Cambridge

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Let there be light Lighting trends in 2018 will continue to mirror the emerging interior style trends, with a focus on contemporary classics and the fusion of styles, such as Scandinavian and Japanese. Matthew Lincoln, co-founder & chief brand evangelist at Escapology says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;For most, using light fixtures based on traditional designs updated with a modern twist, are a sensible choice. They are more flexible in how you use them throughout your home; they will work with existing pieces of furniture, and they will not look outdated in a few years. If you want to make a statement and wish to embrace the latest interior style trend, then following the fusion of geographic styles can create a beautifully distinctive look.â&#x20AC;? Wishing you a stylish 2018!

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EXTENSIVE RANGE OF BEDROOMS & KITCHENS SUPPLIED & FITTED BESPOKE & HANDMADE FURNITURE

• From Design to Completion • Everything supplied & fitted • Top brand white goods

Interior Architecture & Design Furniture & lighting supply Showroom opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 6pm, Sat 10am - 5:30pm www.evewaldron.com info@evewaldron.com Please call us on 01223 470370

• Several storage solution ideas SHOWROOM OPENING HOURS: 7am to 5.30pm Mon - Fri 9.30am - 4.30pm Sat

• Contemporary, Traditional & Classic. We can supply & fit or supply only for any style • FrEE Design Service

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Tel: 01353 725380 Fax: 01353 725384 Out of hours phone: Tony on 07738559569

www.langtryfurniture.co.uk

Don’t make excuses. Make over. You can give your kitchen a brand new look without having to go through all of the pain and disruption of ripping out the old one. Our beautiful quartz, granite, recycled glass and porcelain worktops fit straight on top of your existing surfaces to give you the luxurious finish you’ve always wanted. Add a splashback, replacement doors and drawer fronts and hey presto, you’ve transformed your kitchen in days, not weeks. We can even update your sink, taps and appliances to match. Visit our showroom to find out more or call for a free home consultation.

Ipswich: Unit 3, Alstons Court, Leslie Road, IP3 9PL www.gt-ipswich.co.uk 01473 851 360

www.granitetransformations.co.uk

Stanway: Hatfields Home Furnishers, Peartree Rd, CO3 0LA www.gt-stanway.co.uk

01206 807 347

AVENEY WINDOWS EST 1977

The Next of TheGeneration Next Generation of Window WindowHas HasArrived Arrived

EST 1977

AVENEY INDOWS

The new Storm 2 timber-alternative range has been designed to emulate the beautiful aesthetics and proportions of traditional The newtimber StormThe 2 timber-alternative range windows. new Storm 2 has been designed to emulate range the beautiful timber-alternative has There’s no expensive of traditional aesthetics andbeen proportions designed to emulate the maintenance and no timber windows. beautiful and laborious sandingaesthetics and proportions of traditional There’s no expensive maintenance and no painting. timber windows. laborious sanding and painting. This highly energy efficient This highly energy efficient comes There’s no window comes withexpensive a window WER with a WER A+13 rating asand standard. And maintenance no A+13 rating as standard. the excellent security features your And the excellent securityensure laborious sanding and home is features always safe and ensure yoursecure. home painting. is always safe and secure.

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This highly energy efficient window comes with a WER AVENEY A+13 rating as standard. Exclusively Available at INDOWS And the excellent security AVENEY INDOWS features ensure your home TRADE COUNTER is always safe and secure. NOW Unit 6 Halesworth Business Park, Norwich Road, Halesworth, Suffolk IP19 8QJOPEN

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The Military Wives Collection at M&Co

Price: £9 Wilko www.wilko.com

Price: £32.99

Heart of House Egyptian cotton 4 piece towel bale at Argos

Purple Reigns as colour of the year 2018 I

nteriors are about to get a whole lot more vibrant as PANTONE have announced the colour of the year is…Ultra Violet! Jewel colours have been slowly creeping their way into interiors since autumn but this rich, majestic shade is about to up the style game. Here’s how to get the look in your home: Price: £4.50 Sainsbury’s www.sainsburys.co.uk

Price: £50 A by Amara www.amara.com

eastlife.co.uk

Earsham Home Furnishings

Our extensive showrooms house a large range of pine, oak & hand painted furniture in East Anglia, traditional fireplaces, surrounds and accessories, solid brass lighting, mirrors, prints, giftware and decorative accessories.

Monday - Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm • Sunday 10.00pm – 4.00pm • Bank Holidays 9.00am – 5.00pm Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: enquiries@earshamhall.co.uk - Web: www.earshamhall.co.uk

EARSHAM HALL, BUNGAY, SUFFOLK, NR35 2AN FURNITURE LIGHTING FIREPLACES GIFTS TEAROOM KITCHENS EVENTS

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A. T. W.

at Unit 1, Lawrence Way Industrial Estate, Brewers Hill Road, Dunstable Beds, LU6 1BD

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Open Monday to Saturday 9.30 AM - 5.00 PM

Visit our Dunstable showroom Open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 10am - 2pm

Website: tidybedrooms.co.uk / Call: 01582 471847 INTEREST FREE CREDIT available,T&C’s apply

19 Oak Industrial Park Chelmsford Road Great Dunmow Essex CM6 1XN Tel: 01371 874006 dunmow@georgebrowns.co.uk www.georgebrowns.co.uk

Littleport Timber Buildings SALES

SERVICE

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OPEN: Mon - Fri 8:00-17:00

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Suppliers of all leading makes of agricultural, domestic & professional groundcare equipment. Visit our Dunmow showroom to see our full range of petrol mowers & grass machinery to suit all gardens & needs.

Free delivery & erection • Free quotes Free survey • Free consultations Fully customised • Built for you See our website for testimonials

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Full after sales service back up with spares and repairs. HIRE We have a fleet of Groundcare & Woodchippers Short Term Hire 1 day to 1 year Or Contract Hire 1 - 5 years www.georgebrownshire.co.uk

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Austin Fields, King’s Lynn, PE30 1PH tel: 01553 772564 www.krfireplaces.co.uk

The

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

espite the short days and chilly temperatures, January has so much to offer. With the gluttony of Christmas behind us we leap into the New Year with a list of resolutions to break and the reassurance that spring is just around the corner. Over the next few weeks we will be further jollied by the sight of snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) peeking through the grass, reassuring us that longer, warmer days are not too far away. We finally took delivery of our long awaited Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata) plants last month. All 900 of them! Within three days our gardener had transported every single one of them from their pot into their new homes edging the squares within Percy’s rose garden. Time was working against us with the temperature starting to drop in what is promising to be one of the coldest winters for a few years. Since then mother nature has very kindly ensured they’ve had a good watering in and we now await delivery of the custom made steel rose arbours to take us a little closer to our remastered designs for the garden.

Over the course of the next few weeks we will be working to clear the lawn and borders of the debris of winter, pruning shrubs and reducing an old and gnarled apple tree that still delivers a bounty of fruit. If you’re looking for quality over quantity, don’t let an apple tree grow too big. Prune to allow enough space between branches for airflow, which in turn minimizes the risk of disease and allows the fruit to ripen. A clematis to disguise the apple tree’s tired and weathered bark seems an obvious next step. I can visualize Clematis tangutica ‘Bill Mackenzie’ snaking up the trunk but I worry that the excessive ‘beards’ in this particular variety of Old Man’s Beard may be a little too much given the apple tree’s very apparent state of ageing! The remaining dark evenings will give me the perfect opportunity for a little more clematis research and to make a start on a Spring shopping list for Percy’s garden.

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

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

Get a great deal more at QEII

on D S al uty tam la P p pa a rt id ** m en ts

With Help to Buy* and your Stamp Duty Paid** there’s never been a more perfect time 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 and interior image is indicative only 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. **Stamp Duty Paid available on selected plots and not available on second or additional homes, buy-to-let or let-to buy properties.

Property

Written by Annette Cole, sales and marketing director at Crest Nicholson Eastern

New Year NEW HOME A

s we head into 2018, many of us will be looking to make New Year’s resolutions, be it taking up a new hobby, joining the gym or starting out on a new career path. The start of the year is also a fantastic time to buy a house, whether you’re a first-time buyer, a second stepper looking to make that jump to a larger home or indeed if you’re looking to downsize.

Here are my top tips for buying a home in 2018: • C hat with local agents and look on web portals, such as Zoopla and RightMove, to get a feel for what is on offer in your local area, and what is available to you within your budget. • I t is essential to thoroughly research the area you’re looking to move to, and check whether your home is near all the amenities you’re looking for. For example, if you have young children, it is important to research schooling in the local area, particularly if you’re hoping to be within specific catchment areas. We find many buyers at Halo, Cambridge are attracted to the development due to the fantastic range of schooling on offer in very close proximity.

• W ould you like a pre-owned home or a new build? It’s worth carefully considering the costs involved with both options. New homes are generally more energy efficient than second hand properties, keeping utility bills to a minimum. • L ook into the costs involved. Moving home involves a range of fees, from solicitors’ costs, to legal fees and disbursements and mortgage survey fees. • F or prospective first-time buyers, and those moving up to their next home, why not look into the government launched Help To Buy scheme, which enables you to buy a property with a deposit as low as 5%? This is a fantastic way to get your foot on the property ladder or work your way up to the next rung. First time buyers can also take advantage of the recent removal of stamp duty charges on homes under £300,000 – which provides another opportunity to save!

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3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes n 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.

3, 4 & 5 bedroom show homes available to view Sanderson Manor

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Irises in Small Brown Pot by Lucy McKie ROI

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Classes at the following venues: Orton Waterville Village Hall, 1st Tuesday of each month: 10 - 12, 2 - 4pm. Wansford, The Christie Hall, 1st Wednesday 10 - 12, 3rd Tuesday 2 - 4pm of each month. Stilton, The Church meeting room, 2nd Monday of each month 10 - 12. Maximum of 10 per class, booking essential. Class cost ÂŁ10 per person and includes all materials and equipment required.

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Arts

The Arts Column Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right.

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

ne of the things that I love about January is that I have the time to visit some of my own favourite regional galleries. So my New Year’s treat to myself will be a journey to Suffolk’s Long Melford, to catch the end of the wonderful, Lime Tree Gallery’s Christmas Exhibition.

Packed with some of the country’s finest contemporary art, this gallery never fails to curate exceptional collections. Included this season will be work from Peter King, Elizabeth Linstedt and Lucy McKie ROI. From oil on canvas to acrylic and collage, this show promises to be a delightful and enriching start to the year! Having taught art for over thirty years, Peter King retired in 2010 to develop his career as a professional fine art painter. He has become acclaimed and recognised for his bold and dynamic oils that capture the essence and raw spirit of landscape. Stark shapes and planes of colour interact within his canvas to compose and create spaces of excitement, serenity and perhaps, danger. With an economy of mark making and a very selective palette, King is able to conjure space and enormous presence, placing the viewer very much inside his world.

Autumn Light, Schiehallion by Peter King

Swedish painter Elizabeth Lindstedt, lives and works on the beautiful island of Öland, off the east coast of Sweden. Her seemingly simple landscapes capture a sense of quiet harmony and intrigue that appear to reflect the landscape she lives in. Quietly woven brushstrokes weave textured horizons to large vistas and foregrounds. Elizabeth draws the viewer, almost beckons us, to enter the picture with which she presents us. As with Peter, her paintings exude a sense of space that is larger than the canvas on which she paints. Soft, earthy reds, umbers and yellows are delicately entwined, portraying a distant warmth and welcome beyond natures beautiful and powerful domain. Coming in from the cold, we can relax in the splendour of the still life of Lucy McKie ROI. Lucy’s paintings are pure and beautiful. Exquisitely handled strokes of oil combine to depict gentle and commanding objects of nature and man-made beauty. ‘Irises in Small Brown Pot’ captivates and stills the viewer, transfixed by the artist’s technical excellence and sensitive observation. The Lime Tree Gallery have venues in Long Melford and Bristol. They are known for their commitment to high quality and superb, honest original art. This latest show is a perfect representation of their ethos.

Snow by Elizabeth Lindstedt

Lime Tree Gallery, Lime Tree House, Hall St, Long Melford CO10 9JF Tel: 01787 319046 | www.limetreegallery.com

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Arts News for January

Travels in Light The Voice Project Choir In the often dark post-festive weeks, The Voice Project Choir offer to take us on an uplifting multi venue journey in Norwich that will inspire with the promise of spring to come. The 150 voices of the choir, plus soloists and guest musicians will perform ‘Travels in Light’, the final part of a trilogy of pieces about sleep, dreaming and waking and the bits in between, on 20 January with three separate performances at 5pm, 7pm and 9pm.

Discover the Katherine of Aragon Festival This month, visitors to Peterborough Cathedral and Peterborough Museum will be able to enjoy a series of events from 26-28 January as part of the Katherine of Aragon Festival.

The show is a multi-venue secular performance piece that will be staged in the three very different churches on the city’s medieval Princes Street - St George’s Tombland, St Peter Hungate and the United Reformed Church with the choir leading the audience between them.

The festival will include commemorative services, events, tours and exhibitions. Friday 26 January sees a ‘Talk by Alison Weir’, bestselling historian and novelist, entitled ‘Anne Boleyn: A King’s Obsession’, at Peterborough Cathedral. On Saturday 27 January, historian and author of ‘In the shadow of the throne: the rise and fall of the Boleyn men Thomas and George Boleyn’, Lauren Mackay will present a talk at Peterborough Museum.

“Each of these buildings has its own sound and atmospheric qualities that we will use to highlight the themes of the music,” said co-director Jon Baker. www.voiceproject.co.uk

Saturday and Sunday 28 January, will feature family activities ‘At Home with the Tudors’ at Peterborough Museum.

Mark Thomas takes to the stage in Colchester Mark Thomas is once again on tour, with another thought-provoking and political minded performance, ‘Showtime on the Frontline’. Photo Credit: Lesley Martin

He will be taking to the stage at Colchester Arts Theatre on 31 January, followed by the Norwich Playhouse on 8 February, and then later in the spring at the Cambridge Junction on 7 April. Dodging cultural and literal bullets, Israeli incursions and religion, Mark Thomas and his team set out to run a comedy club for two nights in the Palestinian city of Jenin. Only to find it’s not so simple to celebrate freedom of speech in a place with so little freedom. Jenin refugee camp, home to Jenin Freedom Theatre and to people with a wealth of stories to tell. Mark tells this story alongside two of its actors and aspiring comics, Faisal Abualheja and Alaa Shehada. A story about being yourself in a place that wants to put you in a box. It’s one not to be missed!

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What’s on in

Colchester Written by Amanda French www.anoseforfood.com

here’s plenty going on in Colchester to ring in 2018, so head out and enjoy some of the great entertainment and events on offer. I’ve picked a few of my favourites: Make a theatre trip extra special and enjoy the classic, Macbeth, in the surrounds of Colchester Castle on 19 January as the Priory players perform Shakespeare’s play. Tickets are priced £16.52 per person. (www.colchestercastlepark.co.uk) Enjoy an evening in the company of Michael Parkinson at the Mercury Theatre on 28 January. Michael and his son will discuss highlights from across his career. The night will follow his remarkable journey from a pit village in Yorkshire to becoming one of the most famous men in Britain. (www.mercurytheatre.co.uk) Laugh your way into the new year with funny woman Katherine Ryan, who will be heading to the Charter Hall in Colchester on 26 January, performing her stand up show, ‘Glitter Room’. Tickets are £22 each. (www.colchester-events.co.uk) Wivenhoe House (www.wivenhoehouse.co.uk) will be celebrating Burns Night on the 27 January. Enjoy a piper, traditional ceremonies and a four-course meal celebrating the best of traditional Scottish fare such as Haggis, neeps & tatties. Scottish or not, everyone should join in these celebrations. Tickets priced £42.50 per person. With plenty to keep you occupied in Colchester, there’s no need to go anywhere else for entertainment!

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Before

What’s on in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 9-13 Jan I’ll Be Back Before Midnight Jan is recovering from a nervous disorder. She and her husband rent a remote cabin from an odd farmer who delights in telling gruesome ghost stories. Then the husband’s sister arrives, and all manner of frightening events occur. What happens to fragile Jan as bodies appear and disappear give this classic thriller its tremendously frightening impact. The Old Court Theatre, Springfield Road, Chelmsford. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 10-Jan Fastlove - A tribute to George Michael The show is packed with crowd pleasing anthems. From the Wham classics of the new pop revival to the chart-topping success of the eighties album Faith. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-13 Jan Come The End On the evening of old man Craster’s death, he has summoned his family for a hearing of his will and to witness his passing. However, between Craster’s alcoholic daughter, oafish son in law, they’re pretentiously poetic son Isaac and Craster’s own sin-obsessed son, there is little peace to be found. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 13-Jan Complete Madness A sensational extravaganza featuring all your Madness favourites. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 15-Jan Film: Detroit ‘Detroit’ tells a gripping story of one of the darkest moments during the civil unrest, focusing on the Algiers Motel incident, summer of 69’, during the racially charged 12th Street Riot. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505

www.chelmsford.gov.uk 16-20 Jan ST: Son Of A Preacher Man Welcome to the Preacher Man, the swinging 1960s Soho joint where the kids danced the night away to the latest crazes and dared to dream of love, while the legendary owner, The Preacher Man himself, dispensed advice to cure the loneliest of hearts. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road. Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 18-Jan Canaletto & the Art of Venice Exhibition on Screen open its fifth season with Canaletto & the Art of Venice, an immersive journey into the life and art of Venice’s famous view-painter. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 20-Jan The Boys from Jersey Stars of London’s West End celebrate the iconic music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Outstanding vocals, tight harmonies, and slick routines. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 21-Jan Romeo and Juliet Alexei Ratmansky, former artistic director of the Bolshoi Ballet, stages the company’s premiere of his production with dramatic urgency and a fresh re-telling of Shakespeare’s beloved classic. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 23-24 Jan That’ll Be The Day Highly acclaimed for its stunning live entertainment value, ‘That’ll Be The Day’ is an outstanding celebration for all true fans of the golden era of popular music. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 23-27 Jan Mindgame When Mark Styler, a writer of glossy ‘true crime’ paperbacks, tries to

get an interview with Easterman, a notorious serial killer, he has no idea what he’s walking into. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliffon-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 24 Jan - 3 Feb Hairspray In 1960s Baltimore, dance-loving teen Tracy Turnblad auditions for a spot on “The Corny Collins Show” and wins. She becomes an overnight celebrity, a trendsetter in dance, fun and fashion. Perhaps her new status as a teen sensation is enough to topple Corny’s reigning dance queen and bring racial integration to the show. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 25-28 Jan Puss in Boots ‘Puss in Boots’ is packed with fun and laughter for all the family, and will have you singing along to all your favourite songs from Olly Murrs and Queen to The Lion King and Moana! West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 26-Jan Whitney: Queen of the Night A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 27-Jan Thank Abba for the Music ‘Thank ABBA For The Music’ is a two-hour theatre spectacular that captures all of the magic and excitement of one of pop history’s most successful and entertaining live bands. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com 29 Jan - 3 Feb Sunset Boulevard One of the all-time great musicals, ‘Sunset Boulevard’ is a compelling story of romance and obsession, based on Billy Wilder’s legendary film, with Don Black and Christopher Hampton’s wonderful book and lyrics. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road,

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Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk MUSIC 6 Jan Whole Lotta DC: Tribute To AC/DC The outfit plays rock covers including Highway To Hell. Towngate Theatre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, SS14 1DL. 01268 465465. www.wholelottadc.com 7 Jan Paul Lewis Pianist Paul Lewis is always a popular visitor to Saffron Hall. This beautifully-devised programme will demonstrate every facet of his artistry. Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4UH 0845 548 7650. saffronhall.com 12 Jan Keni Burke Keni Burke is best known for his string of hits in the 1980s including ‘Let Somebody Love You’, ‘You’re The Best’ and the massively influential and much-sampled ‘Risin’ To The Top’. Chinnery’s, Marine Parade, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2EJ 01702 467305. bandonthewall.org

electric and acoustic guitars, keyboards and piano, drums and bass guitar. PalaceTheatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19 Jan Emerson String Quartet For their Saffron Hall debut they’re playing the visionary First Quartet by American maverick Charles Ives. Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4UH. 0845 548 7650. saffronhall.com

19-Jan Message in a Bottle A Tribute to The Police. Relive the iconic sound of The Police and front man Sting with this unmissable pitch-perfect production. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 20 Jan London Calling: The Clash Tribute Punk legends The Clash have their best-know tunes performed live. Chinnery’s, Marine Parade, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2EJ. 01702 467305 www.en-gb.facebook.com/clashtribute 12-Jan Let The Music Play 21-Jan The Bob Dylan Story A Celebration Of Barry White. The Bob Dylan Story is the stunning Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southand definitive live concert celebraend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135. tion of rock music’s greatest icon. www.southendtheatres.org.uk PalaceTheatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 14 Jan Timothy Ridout & Frank 01702 351135 Dupree www.southendtheatres.org.uk Brahms’s Sonata Op.120 No.1 combines profound beauty with 21-Jan Vivaldi by Candlelight some of the most impassioned The internationally renowned music he ever wrote Saffron Hall, Locrian Ensemble present a musical Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, tribute to the great Venetian CB11 4UH. 0845 548 7650 saffronhall.com composer, Antonio Vivaldi. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 18-Jan Dr Feelgood www.queens-theatre.co.uk Formed on Canvey Island in Essex in the early 1970s, Dr. Feelgood 31-Jan Moon River and Me - Jimmy remains one of the most popular Osmond and exciting live rhythm and blues This brand new show full of acts in the world. PalaceTheatre , award-winning music, nostalgic 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea footage and special memories of SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 Andy Williams will touch your heart. www.southendtheatres.org.uk Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 19-Jan Abba - Forever 2017 01708 443333. The Abba sound is replicated with www.queens-theatre.co.uk an incredible attention to detail, using a six-piece band featuring

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 26-Jan Grayson Perry: The Life Of Julie Cope Curator’s Tour An opportunity to join exhibition curator Harriet Cooper for an insight into the ideas and inspirations behind the show. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1JH 01206 713 700. www.firstsite.uk 25 Jan - 7 April Harlow Open 2018 This year the Gibberd Gallery’s Open can be entered by any artist who was born, studied, currently resides or is working in Harlow, Uttlesford, East Herts, Epping and Broxborne. Gibberd Gallery, The Water Gardens, Harlow, CM20 1WG 01279 446404. www.gibberdgallery.co.uk 26-Jan Lecture by Andrew Wilson: David Hockney - 60 Years of Work Andrew Wilson, Senior Curator Modern and Contemporary British Art and Archives Tate Gallery, will talk about Hockney’s innovative work in different media, following the major retrospective held at Tate Britain earlier this year. The Fry Art Gallery, Castle Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1BD. 01799 513779 www.fryartgallery.org SPECIAL EVENTS 9 Dec - 7 Jan Curious About Colchester Take a self-guided walk with a treasure hunt theme – looping around the better-known sights, as well as some of the more unusual and quirky ones. Town Centre, Colchester. 011595 0215. www.curiousabout.co.uk/colchester.html 21-Jan Stargazing at Abberton Reservoir Join Essex Wildlife Trust and North Essex Astronomical Society to look at the night sky through large telescopes at Abberton Reservoir. Booking essential. Church Road, Layer-de-la-Haye, Colchester, CO2 0EU. www.essexwt.org.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 21-Jan Coggeshall Vintage, Antique & Collectors Fair Vintage, antique & collectables fair. Open 10am- 4 pm £1 entry pp. Coggeshall Village Hall, Stoneham Street, CO6 1UH

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While away a day in

Suffolk

Saxmundham

Written by Abby Knight

ne of the most picturesque Suffolk market towns situated in the heart of the coastal region, Saxmundham has more than enough to offer for a great day out. Winter or summer, Dunwich Heath beach is the perfect place to start your day. The beautiful natural beach and coastal reserve offers acres of soft sand to explore and is the home to many species of wildlife including the tiny Dartford Warbler and the Lion Ant. Take in some fresh sea air and the delicious aroma of the coconut-scented yellow gorse. Dogs are welcome at certain parts of the beach and you can have a mid-morning coffee in the pretty Coastguard Cottages Tea Rooms. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk

Finish the day with a delicious meal at the popular Bell at Sax. This lovely laid back restaurant located in the small boutique-style hotel has become a must-go-to venue for fabulous food with regular live music in really comfortable surroundings. Check out steak night on Thursday for something extra special. For details of opening times, visit thebellatsax.co.uk.

While you’re on the trail of wildlife why not go on to RSPB Minsmere, a real haven of some of the UK’s most popular birdlife. There’s a fun Wild Zone to explore with den buildings, you can take a virtual coastal tour or enjoy some great countryside walks. There are activities taking place all year round including the Magic of Minsmere Weekend Walks. Visit rspb.org.uk. Continuing the sea theme, the discovery of the Sutton Hoo Burial Ship in 1939 was one of the most important in Anglo Saxon history. The 27-metre ship dragged up from the River Deben just along from Saxmundham, contained a massive haul from the times including gilded helmets and swords which told the story of the Anglo Saxon kings of the time. A must-see for all the family. Visit nationaltrust.org.uk for details of tours and how to get the most from your visit. Fancy a shop? Take a look around the pretty market town of Saxmundham for some interesting finds including the Cotton Tree for interior design and homeware and The Store for men and women’s fashions.

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Stowmarket

The Jewel in Suffolk’s Crown

Written by Abby Knight

ooking for a mellow day out this New year? We have four reasons why you should put Stowmarket on the top of your list: Stowmarket takes its name from the word ‘stow’ meaning principal and in medieval times this bustling town became popular for its busy market and was granted a market charter in 1347 by Edward III. Located on the pretty river Gipping, it makes for the perfect day out or overnight visit.

1. MEET THE ANIMALS AT THE MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE Discover the history and natural world of East Anglia including fascinating crafts and traditional gypsy culture and meet the friendly animals such as Major, the diminutive Suffolk Punch horse, as well as rare breeds of cattle and sheep. There are some great riverside trails to follow and a café serving delicious local food and drink. www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

2. MARVEL AT THE MOAT The gardens at Helmingham Hall are one of the most visited in East Anglia. It attracts people from all over the world to see the amazing variety of flowers in the gardens that surround the impressive Tudor moated Hall, set in a 400-year-old ancient deer park. The lovely relaxed feel makes it suitable for all ages and you can round off your day with a tasty cream tea in the Coach House. For prices and opening times visit helmingham.com

3 TAKE IN A MOVIE The only purpose built cinema in mid-Suffolk, the Regal, has been lovingly refurbished after fire damage 10 years ago to make it a go-to venue to enjoy the latest film releases or live show. As well as regular comedy nights, it also has summer and winter festival events and the comfortable lounge bar is the perfect place to enjoy a drink before or after the show. For more information visit regalstowmarket.co.uk

4. MAKE TIME FOR THE MARKETS Stowmarket hosts a popular street market in the Town Centre every Thursday and Saturday featuring a wide range of local and more widely sourced food, drink, home and giftware. From its origins over 400 years ago it’s a lively and vibrant place to go, and on the last Friday of each month it becomes the popular Farmers Market. For more info go to Stowmarket.org.

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What’s on: 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 9-10 Jan Film: Paddington 2 Paddington 2 continues the adventures of the little bear from darkest Peru, now that he’s a permanent member of the Brown family and a popular member of the local community. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 11-13 Jan Ali Baba and the Forty Theives A traditional pantomime for all ages to enjoy. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211 newcut.org 13-Jan Blood Brothers Set in the heart of Liverpool, twin brothers Mickey and Edward, are separated at birth as their mother cannot afford to keep them both. Raised only streets apart, the boys’ lives take two very different paths. Following a chance meeting, the pair form an unlikely friendship. What will happen if they ever find out the secret of their shared history? Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 16-Jan David Lindo Covers his visit of over 270 cities worldwide in search of urban birds. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 16-Jan The Transports The Transports’ tells the incredible tale of families destroyed by poverty and crime, but resurrected by exile to Australia in the 1780s. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk

20-Jan Showstopper! The Improvised Musical The Showstoppers have delighted audiences across the globe with their ingenious blend of comedy, musical theatre and spontaneity. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 20-28 Jan Cinderella This fast moving comedy pantomime with toe-tapping music, stunning scenery and costumes, special effects, hilarious slapstick comedy and plenty of audience participation will entertain and enchant everyone. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 20-Jan Jack and the Beanstalk Centre Stage’s panto is now its 18th year! Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 20-Jan Off The Cut – Tosh Ewins This year Tosh chats about, and performs some of his favourite songs from Theatre TV and Film. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH . 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 21-Jan Bolshoi - Romeo & Juliet In Verona, Romeo and Juliet fall madly in love while their respective families, the Montagues and the Capulets, are caught in a bitter rivalry ending in heart-wrenching tragedy. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 21-Jan Jim Davidson The people’s favourite comedian takes to ‘The Road Again’ with a brand-new show which promises to be the antidote to this ‘PC’ world we now live in. Guaranteed to be outrageous and as truthful as ever. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE 23-25 Jan John Bishop - Winging It Comedy superstar John Bishop is

extending his sell out UK tour and bringing his brand-new show to more venues across the UK. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE 01473 433100 23-27 Jan The Good Person of Szechwan A jolly tale set in south-western China. The gods come to earth in search of a truly good person. They find only Shen Te, a goodhearted but penniless prostitute, and make her a gift of money to set up her own business. But her goodness brings ruin and she must disguise herself as a man, Shui Ta, in order to muster sufficient ruthlessness to survive. What will become of her? Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 25-Jan Burns Night Poetry Open Mic Come along, sit back and listen to the readings of favourite poems, newly penned creations by local poets and enjoy the company of creative minds celebrating the written word. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 27-Jan Josh Pickering presents – Live At The Seagull Local magician Joshua Pickering returns from his travels on the high seas. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 28-Jan New Words, Fresh Voices Described as ‘a place of truth-telling which is the basis of all good poetry’, contributors explore what is good, bad and fascinating about being human – all told with refreshing honesty and good humour. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 26-Jan Gregg Wallace - Gregg on Food Join Gregg for an entertaining evening of anecdotes, culinary

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expertise and behind the scenes tales. Complete with an audience Q&A, this really is a must see event for any foodie! Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, King Street, Ipswich IP1 1DH. apps.ipswich.gov.uk 31 Jan - 3 Feb Birdsong Marking the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War, Birdsong is the hit, critically acclaimed stage show based on the world famous novel by Sebastian Faulks. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org MUSIC 11-Jan Ronnie Scott’s All Stars This is an evening celebrating the music and history of Ronnie Scott’s and is a must for any music fan. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 18-Jan The Chicago Blues Brothers The show is a high-octane, adrenaline-pumping musical mash-up that presents the best material from the original Blues Brothers movies, and is jam-packed full of songs by legends. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 19-Jan Folk on the Boat: Holly Johnston with Sarah Wil Set in the barge’s warm and cosy wooden saloon, experience some of the best folk musicians from East Anglian in an intimate music venue. Sailing Barge Victor, Outside Old Custom House, Common Quay, Ipswich, IP4 1BY

21 Jan The Johnny Cash Roadshow: Johnny Cash Tribute The group pays tribute to the Man In Black, known for country hits including Ring Of Fire, Walk The Line, Folsom Prison Blues, Boy Named Sue and Hurt. The Apex, Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.johnnycashroadshow.com

in Paris before travelling to London and Washington. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org SPECIAL EVENTS 6-Jan The Apex Wedding Fair Over 50 exhibitors. Goodie bags on arrival – extra gifts and samples to the first 50 brides. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

26 Jan Mettis Quartet For more than 25 years young string quartets and chamber ensembles 18-Jan The Newmarket Wedding have come to Aldeburgh for a Show series of winter and spring residenAround 130 exhibitors from the cies. Jubilee Hall, Crabbe Street, surrounding areas of Suffolk and Aldeburgh, IP15 5BW. 01728 687110. Cambridgeshire. There will be bridal snapemaltings.co.uk fashion, demonstrations and enter tainment. Newmarket Racecourses, 27-Jan The Ultimate Commitments Rowley Mile Racecourse, Newmarket, & Blues Brothers CB8 0TF. www.TheNewmarketWedIn a show suitable for all ages, this dingShow.co.uk live 12-piece showband will perform some of the greatest Soul songs 26-Jan Aldeburgh Festival Preview from the two films. Fisher Theatre, A mid-winter look ahead to high Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org summer as Roger Wright and Dan Whitfield present a preview of the 2018 Aldeburgh Festival. Snape 28-Jan A History of Swing Maltings, Aldeburgh, IP17 1SP Re-live the glorious golden years of 01728 687110. Swing and make new memories. snapemaltings. co.uk Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 7-Jan Suffolk The Famous Copdock Antiques & Collectors Fair ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Dealers from Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex 6-Jan David Hockney RAA and beyond will be selling a wide David Hockney is a global sensation range of fascinating items. Open 9am with exhibitions in London, New - 3.30pm. Admission £2.50. The Best York and Paris. Now entering his 9th Wesern Ipswich Hotel, IP8 3JD decade, Hockney shows absolutely no evidence of slowing down or losing his trademark boldness. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org

20-Jan ELO Encounter Not only flawlessly recreating the 21-Jan Film and Digital Studio wonderful music of ELO, it’s a specPortrait Workshop with Nick tacular live show from start to finish. Ilott Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, This course is designed for anyone Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 interested in taking portraits, whether www.fishertheatre.org of friends and family members or when working with professional 20 Jan Make A Difference - Encore! models. Price: £80. Old Jet, BentwaSuffolk Singers’ fifth fundraising ters Business Parks, Rendlesham, concert in aid of teenage cancer trust IP12 2TW. 07880 80014 Woodbridge Community Hall, Station Road, Woodbridge IP12 4AU 1-Feb Cézanne - Portraits of a Life www.suffolksingers.co.uk Dedicated to the portrait work of Paul Cézanne, the exhibition opens

27-28 Jan Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair A monthly two-day Antiques and vintage fair featuring 50 tables selling antiques, jewellery, ceramics and more. £1 entry. Open 9.30am-4pm The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX 28-Jan Suffolk Showground Antiques & Collectors Fair This showground fair is now a one day only event and has now moved permanently into the carpeted Event Centre. Trinity Park (Suffolk Showground), Felixstowe Road, IP3 8UH

For full listings visit: www.eastlife.co.uk

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Secret Norfolk Written by Nicole Ranaweera

Life in a Fine County

And Now Photographic by Nick Read

Photo by Chris Nash

New Year and a New You is the most typical way to start January, but perhaps this year you might want take on the old Norfolk adage and ‘Do Different’ for 2018?

Book yourself tickets to this year’s Norfolk & Norwich Festival, 11 – 27 May 2018 nnfestival.org.uk With 17 days of unmissable performance, music, literature, art and free events, the largest international arts festival in the East of England is not one to miss!

With new and exciting experiences waiting right here on your doorstep, take a look at my top five picks for 2018 that are just that little bit different:

Annually the Festival includes world premières and shows that open here in Norwich before anywhere else. Tickets to some events are available now, but the full programme will be announced shortly.

Pop along to manipulate at Norwich Puppet Theatre

www.puppettheatre.co.uk/whats-on/manipulate Running from 27 January – 9 February, this annual festival, hosted in conjunction with Puppet Animation Scotland, is one for the adults only! Renowned puppeteer Steve Motram will be putting on a show and there will be a puppet making workshop from John Roberts. Delve into a captivating world of beauty, the surreal and the unexpected inside a converted medieval church…this is certainly not something you’ll see every day!

Enjoy a Lotus Driving Experience at Hethel Headquarters www.lotusdrivingacademy.com/product/scareyourself-sensible Unleash your inner speed demon and drive in the slipstream of champions with the Scare Yourself Sensible course. Unique to Norfolk, you will not only enjoy a comprehensive tour of the Lotus production facility, including a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look, but will also discover just why the driving public become smitten once they venture behind the wheel of a pure-bred Lotus sports car.

Learn to cook with the Richard Hughes Cookery School www.richardhughescookeryschool.co.uk This year, the Richard Hughes Cookery School will be welcoming guest chefs to join Richard in the kitchen. Along others, you could be taught by: pastry supremo Mark Mitson, Kate Barmby from the 2016 Great British Bake Off or master chocolatier Julia Hetherton. There’s sure to be something that will tickle your tastebuds so take a look at their calendar of events today!

Explore Norwich with the GoGo Hares sculpture trail, 24 June to 8 September 2018 www.gogohares.co.uk Norwich loves its outdoor art and for 2018 there will be 50 sculptures dotted around the city to find. Plus, for the first time, you can also enjoy the moongazer trail across the county taking in the beautiful Norfolk countryside and coast line. Explore parts of Norwich and Norfolk you’ve never seen whilst supporting this fantastic charity art trail. Keep up to date with events in Norfolk this winter, and join our Facebook group: What’s On in Norfolk with Eastlife: / www.facebook.com/groups/805222059608791

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Steam Heritage|Gardens|Garden Centre

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

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Bressingham Steam Museum

2018 EVENTS

Full Steam-Up Weekend: A celebration of steam at Bressingham Steam Museum. Sat 5 May 2018 to Mon 7 May 2018

February Half Term Opening Dads Army Halls, One Railway and Gallopers operating. Sat 10 Feb 2018 to Sun 18 Feb 2018

Bressingham Steam Museum will be hosting its annual Heritage Steam Gala over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend celebrating the return to steam of 2 historic engines.

Bressingham repeats its February Half Term opening again in 2018.. Daily during half term between 11am and 4pm. (last rides 4pm). One of our Railways (Nursery - Diesel hauled and Gallopers will be in operation and the Dads Army Exhibition Hall will be open for this period. The locomotive sheds will be closed. Walk up Entry prices are £4.25 Adults, £3.25 Children (online £4 and £2.75). Rides on the railway and Gallopers can be paid for as used. £1 each for the train or the Gallopers. Garden Entry (if open) is not included (we do not hold the licence from the Bloom Family for the Gardens in the Winter). Check the News section of the website for any current alterations during this cold/windy period!

OTHER EVENTS Rover Car Rally Sun 27 May 2018

Bressingham is proud to be able to launch two of the oldest locomotives in England back into steam service for 2017. We are excited to present Port class quarry Hunslet 316 “Gwynedd” of 1883 in original later Penrhyn Railway livery for the first time in preservation. We are equally pleased to present A1X class standard gauge locomotive number B662 “Martello” built in 1875 in Southern Railways livery for the first time since 1948. This special weekend will see guest 2ft narrow gauge locomotives visiting Bressingham. Quarry Hunslet ‘Hugh Napier’ (built in 1904) will be visiting Bressingham for the whole weekend. Hugh Napier is based at the Ffestiniog Railway but is part of the National Trust Collection. Also visiting Bressingham for the weekend is Quarry Hunslet ‘Maid Maid’ (built in 1903) from the Bala Lake Railway in Wales. Interestingly Maid Marion has been at Bressingham before as she was one of the early fleet of 2ft engines at the museum running from 1967 – 1971. A recently restored Clayton and Shuttleworth logburning portable engine based in Malaysia. Restored by Wheeler Steam. (Probably its only public steaming before returning to Malaysia)! Garrett Traction engine ‘Felsted Belle’: No7 single, works No. 32936, built in 1916. Aveling & Porter steam tractor ‘Margaret’ built in 1913 No 7898 (Attending Saturday and Sunday only).

Large display of veteran cars by the Norfolk and Norwich owners club

Narrow Gauge East (New Event for 2018) A celebration of narrow gauge modelling. Sat 2 Jun 2018 A celebration of narrow gauge modelling. There will be a variety of narrow gauge railway layouts, trade stalls and society stands at the exhibition . The museum will steam all of it’s narrow gauge fleet for this event. Providing passenger services and demonstration freight trains. There will be opportunites for driver experience and footplate rides too! If you are interested in exhibiting a narrow gauge railway layout, would like a stall or have a relevant society stand please contact the museum.

For more info and more events got to www.bressingham.co.uk eastlife.co.uk

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What’s on: Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 13 Dec - 14 Jan Sleeping Beauty The magical tale of Sleeping Beauty, a princess cursed by a very bad-tempered guest - the evil wicked witch. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 13-Jan Theatre Crafts and Tales An opportunity for families to explore the world of emotions through theatre crafts and storytelling. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 15-Jan Dance to the Music The audience will experience the evolution of dance through musical eras, starting from the roaring twenties, with tap and Charleston, going through every decade of dance crazes up to modern day Ballroom and Latin! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 16-20 Jan Around The World In 80 Days The mysterious and fabulously wealthy Phileas Fogg wagers his life’s fortune that he can circumnavigate the globe in just 80 days. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 16-Jan The Promise Set during the last days of the Ottoman Empire, The Promise follows a love triangle between Michael, a brilliant medical student, the beautiful and sophisticated Ana, and Chris - a renowned American journalist based in Paris. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 17-Jan FILM: A Beautiful Mind The true story of mathematical genius John Nash, as told by director Ron Howard. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

18-Jan I Had A Black Dog Boy meets girl and they fall in love. But the boy doesn’t come alone! There is a third party in the form of a black dog who is always by Joe’s side, sometimes hiding in the corner, sometimes sleeping in their bed. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 19-Jan Katherine Ryan What does Canada’s first woman to have a worldwide Netflix special have in common with Britain’s first woman to have a worldwide Netflix special? They are both single mothers with too many pets. And they are both Katherine Ryan. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 19-20 Jan Confusions Alan Ayckbourn’s ‘Confusions’ is a series of five, short, interlinked oneact plays: Mother Figure, Drinking Companion, Between Mouthfuls, Gosforth’s Fête, and A Talk in the Park. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 21-Jan ROH: Rigoletto Rigoletto, court jester to the libertine Duke of Mantua, is cursed by the father of one of the Duke’s victims for his irreverent laughter. When the Duke seduces Rigoletto’s daughter Gilda, it seems the curse is taking effect Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 23-Jan Film: The Beguiled The unexpected arrival of a wounded Union soldier at a girls’ school in Virginia during the American Civil War leads to jealousy and betrayal. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 24-Jan A Tale of Exile and Migration The Transports tells the incredible

tale of a family destroyed by poverty and crime, but resurrected by exile to the new colony in Australia. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 25-Jan Young Marx - NTL Rory Kinnear is Marx and Oliver Chris is Engels, in this new comedy written by Richard Bean and Clive Coleman. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 26-Jan Meet Karl Minns An intimate evening created especially for Creative Matters, Karl will both entertain with some of his award-winning writing and songs but also share, in conversation with Chief Executive Stephen Crocker, some of his experience as a man battling with anxiety. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 28-Jan Brendan Cole Live music, stunning special effects and Brendan’s own dazzling choreography and charm make this an unforgettable night. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 30-Jan An Evening With Sir Michael Parkinson In conversation with his son Mike, with highlights from the Parkinson archive, this is an opportunity to get an intimate, entertaining and informative look at his remarkable journey. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 31-Jan Frankenstein Workshop & Open Rehearsal Part installation, part performance, this project will promote dialogue, engagement and understanding of mental health issues affecting young men. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

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1RL. 01603 630000 MUSIC www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 6-Jan The Prettiest Starman Please don’t come along expecting ARTS & EXHIBITIONS to see a looky-likey band – The PrettiUntil 11 Feb Radical Russia est Starman is just a group of friends Radical Russia will show how in a few and massive fans of David Bowie, joyshort years a new approach to art ously performing some of his greatest emerged. The exhibition includes songs with love and passion. Norwich pre-revolution works, showing the Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, way in which Russian abstraction Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 included specific Russian themes norwichartscentre.co.uk – especially relating to the Russian peasantry. Sainsbury Centre for Visual 19-Jan The Wolf Number Arts, UEA, Norwich, NR4 7TJ Expect floaty guitar sounds, effects, scva.ac.uk samples and fast energetic drums. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 25-Jan Don’t Spook The Horse A journey through Neil Young’s long and varied career. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 25-Jan Motown - How Sweet Is It The stunning 100% live show combines first class music together with slick choreography and an amazing band. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 27-Jan The Best of WHAM! Sensational vocals, choreography, costumes and a live band. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 27-Jan Lets Twist Again They’re back by very popular demand, this full company of critically acclaimed artistes and musicians returns by to deliver the 2018 show that combines great music, fun and laughter with the greatest of hits. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 29-Jan Classic Rock Show The Classic Rock Show returns to Norwich to bring us Guitar Greats World Tour 2018, an amazing new live production, celebrating the world’s greatest guitarists. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2

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/exhibitions 10-31 Jan The Road of Ypres: The War Photograghy of Olive Edis Olive Edis was one of the most important photographers of the early 20th century. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 11-Jan Will Teather: The Doors of Perception The show includes recent works that see the artist exploring abstraction for the first time. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 6-7 Jan The Fitness, Health and Wellbeing Show The show features a range of exhibitors, activities and seminars aimed at helping youngsters, adults and senior citizens learn how to improve their fitness, health and overall wellbeing. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950.

www.theforumnorwich.co.uk/whatson 12-13 Jan Modern Country Crafts Modern Country Crafts gathers 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/whatson 14-Jan King’s Lynn Wedding Festival Over 40 top wedding suppliers who will have everything you need to help plan your special day all in the historic venue. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 20-Jan Mind Festival of Culture Meet people from all over the world, learn about their countries and their work in Norwich. Drop-in to workshops and everything from traditional singing and dancing, to henna tattoos or learning to write your name in another language. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF 01603 727950. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk/whatson AUCTION & ANTIQUES 13-Jan King’s Lynn Fleamarket Offering a wide and varied range of collectables, there are also traditional small antiques and for the intrepid bargain hunter there is always plenty of bric-a brac to enjoy. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 764864. 14-Jan Militaria Fair Thetford A fantastic and diverse range of quality militaria from some of the countries. Entry £3. Open from 10am to 2pm.Thetford Leisure Centre Croxton Rd, Thetford, IP24 1JD 28-Jan Hingham Antiques Fair 50+ stands. Last Sunday in every month great for trade and public. Open: 9.30am-3.30pm, Entry £2. The Sports Hall, Springfield Way Hingham, NR9 4HB

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Beds, Bucks, Herts

Milton Keynes Written by Amanda French www.anoseforfood.com

orget about hibernating during January. It might be cold outside, everyone might be on a budget and dry January is in full swing, but that’s no excuse to hide indoors. Get out and enjoy the very best of Milton Keynes. Just 20 minutes outside of Milton Keynes is the beautiful forest of Marston Vale which is holding a whole host of events during January. If you are feeling the effects of an overindulgent Christmas, then why not join in their free health walks on Wednesdays at 10.30am. No need to book, just head to reception to join in. There’s the opportunity to try one of their learning lunchtime talks held on Mondays throughout January, on topics ranging from 20th century firefighting to the heritage of the Bedford River Valley Park. There’s plenty of free events to get involved with during the month, so take a look at www.marstonvale.org for more info. As usual, the Milton Keynes Theatre (www.atgtickets.com) has a packed schedule for January including ‘The Snowman’ and ‘Jersey Boys’ and February also looks set to be a great month with Matthew Bourne’s ‘Cinderella’ and ‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’ just a couple of shows on the line up. Photo credit Tristram Kenton

The Stables (www.stables.org) may have sold out of Michael McIntyre tickets but there are plenty of other events coming up, including ‘Wolf Hall Live’ on Sunday 28 January (£25 a ticket) which sees a concert celebrating the best music from the BBC’s interpretation of Hilary Mantel’s books. There’ll also be extracts read from ‘Wolf Hall’ and ‘Bringing Up the Bodies’ to accompany the performance. A must for any Wolf Hall fan. Are you a Milton Keynes resident? Then head over to Bletchley Park (www.bletchleypark.org.uk) on Mondays to enjoy 50% off the admission price. Current exhibitions include ‘Safety & Security – Keeping Safe Online’ and ‘The Road to Bletchley Park’. There’s always plenty going on in and around Milton Keynes at all times of the year and January is no exception. So leave the house and enjoy what the city and the surrounding area has to offer in 2018.

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Hertford & Ware Written by Amanda French www.anoseforfood.com

Five great events you won’t want to miss!

t might seem bleak in January, but luckily there are some great events taking place in Hertford and Ware during the next month or so, which will bring a smile to your face.

The Corn Exchange is being taken over by the official number one tribute act to Led Zeppelin, Letz Zep, on 20 January. Enjoy hits taken from Led Zepplin’s back catalogue and a great night of live music. £13 per person. (www.hertfordcornexchange.co.uk)

Towards the end of the month on 28 January the Hertford Symphony Orchestra present ‘All At Sea’, the Robert Kiln Concerts for Children at the Hertford Theatre. Come along in sea-themed fancy dress and enjoy audience participation at this short but enchanting concert devised to appeal to children aged 3 plus and their families. (www.hertfordtheatre.com) £8 for adults and £5 for children. Fancy yourself as the next big thing in music, comedy and more? Then why not sign up for Ware’s annual community talent show taking place at Chauncy School on Saturday 17 February. For more information and to sign up, visit www.lovewareliveware.org With plenty of things going on in both Hertford and Ware in 2018, there’s no need for the post Christmas blues to kick in.

Hertford Theatre is playing host to ‘Cirque Enchantment’ on 27 January. This concert style cirque performance features stunning performances intersperced with live vocals and of course, amazing circus performers. A treat for adults and children from seven years old. £23 for adults and £18 concessions. (www.hertfordtheatre.com) If you are one of the many couples who got engaged over the festive period, then you’ll be pleased to hear that the Ware Priory Wedding Fayre will be taking place on Sunday 28 January. Head over to the priory to check out the venue and meet suppliers of everything from dresses, to cakes and photography. A one stop wedding shop. (www.warepriory.co.uk)

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What’s on: Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE & SHOWS 11-13 Jan Bugsy Malone Set in Prohibition era New York, the show charts the story ex-boxer Bugsy Malone who falls for aspiring singer Blousey Brown, whilst rival gangsters Fat Sam and Dandy Dan, wreak havoc with the help of custard pies and destructive splurge guns! Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 16-Jan Rigoletto David McVicar’s production highlights the cruelty at the heart of the court of Mantua. Richly dressed courtiers engage in orgies and revelries to Verdi’s heady, spirited dances. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 17-20 Jan The Snowman When a young boy’s snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve, the two set off on a night-time quest for adventure. They meet Father Christmas, dancing penguins, reindeer and crowds of the Snowman’s friends, but will they escape evil Jack Frost and get back home for Christmas morning? Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 18-Jan Dance To The Music ‘Dance to the Music’ will present to the audience the one and only dance show in theatrical history, which will feature all styles of dancing. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 19-Jan Old Herbaceous An acute and sometimes hilarious observation of relationships between the classes in a simpler age. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 20-Jan Who Framed Roger Rabbit A toon-hating detective is a cartoon rabbit’s only hope to prove his innocence when he is accused of murder. 30 years since its original

release in the UK, the Quarry Theatre and Bedford Film Festival bring one of the most ground breaking films of our time back to Bedford! Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 21-Jan Romeo & Juliet In Verona, Romeo and Juliet fall madly in love while their respective families, the Montagues and the Capulets, are caught in a bitter rivalry ending in heart-wrenching tragedy…Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1J. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 21-Jan Sing-a-Long-a Beauty and the Beast Celebrate a screening of Disney’s brand new adaptation of the iconic fairy tale, with on-screen lyrics so everyone can join in! Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 23 Jan - 3 Feb Jersey Boys ‘Jersey Boys’ tells the true life story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks who wrote their own songs, invented their own sound, and sold 100 million records worldwide. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 23-25 Jan The Wedding Combining movement, imagery and provocative narratives in the company’s trademark style, Gecko’s seventh touring production brings these contracts into question with an emotionally charged and spectacular performance. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 23-26 Jan Dr Faustus Faustus is a successful but bored academic. In a bid for excitement, a better understanding of life and fame he conjures Mephistopheles, a servant of Lucifer, the devil. Making a deal, Faustus then embarks on a hedonistic life of fame and power but the world around him begins to fall apart and the

time to pay fast approaches. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY www.courttheatre.co.uk 24-Jan Ashes To Ashes Two men arrive at Birkenau from different parts of Europe. They are separated from their families upon arrival. We watch as they form a friendship that cannot be broken, firstly by the brutality of the guards and ultimately by entrance to the gas chamber. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337. www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 25-Jan Comedy Night @ Rhodes An evening of comedy with some of the hottest acts on the comedy circuit hosted by Kieran Boyd. Headlining the evening is Matt Richardson supported by Tania Edwards. Rhodes Theatre 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 25-26 Jan Looking For William Humorously exploring the historical and political conflicts between Scotland and England, ‘Looking for William’ combines bold writing, soundscape and projection to underscore the human need for real understanding in a post-truth world. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 26-Jan Andy Zaltzman Andy Zaltzman is a stand-up comedian, broadcaster and author, who has firmly established himself in the vanguard of British comedy with his unique brand of political satire. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU 01908 280800. www.stables.org 26-Jan Jenny Eclair Eclair puts middle age under the microscope and decides whether to laugh, cry or buy a dachshund! You are most welcome to join her, just button your cardi up properly and wipe that lipstick off your teeth. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 27-Jan Superslam Wrestling Superslam Wrestling returns with a

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huge 2017 explosion of top talent from all Worldwide Wrestling Federations competing in a truly international Royal Rumble over the top rope action. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 30 Jan - 3 Feb George’s Marvellous Medicine An imaginative and entertaining stage adaptation, bursting with growing grannies, feathery farm animals and bags of frothbuggling family fun. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 31 Jan - 3 Feb The Sorcerer The story is set in the village of Ploverleigh and a young man, Alexis, is obsessed with idea of love levelling all ranks and social distinctions. To promote his beliefs, he invites the proprietor of J.W. Wells & Co., Family Sorcerers, to brew a love potion. This causes everyone in the village to fall in love with the first person they see and results in the pairing of comically mismatched couples! But how can the spell be broken? Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk MUSIC 7-Jan Ultimate Bublé Critically acclaimed tribute artist Mark Daniels performs the biggest hits of Michael Bublé in this stunning tribute show. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 13-Jan Signed, Sealed, Delivered Live on stage, the cast speed through a rendition of Motor City soul classics. Backed by a powerhouse band including brass section, our cast of boy and girl singers truly do justice to the Phenomenon that is Soul! The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 19-Jan A New Flame: The Songs of Simply Red The exceptional nine-piece band recreates every slick groove and perfect melody from Mick Hucknall’s remarkable global career in an unparalleled display of authenticity

and style. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 19-Jan The Rocket Man A musical journey, charting the rise to fame of one of the biggest selling artiste of all time. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 20-Jan Crocodile Mock - The Elton John Tribute Expect a fabulously entertaining and energetic evening, watching this master tribute to Sir Elton John. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 20 Jan Joe Brown: Just Joe The legendary rock’n’roll musician performs a solo show. Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 01727 844488. www.joebrown.co.uk 21-Jan Back to Bacharach ‘Back to Bacharach’ celebrates the magical music of Burt Bacharach, one of the most accomplished popular composers of the 20th century, who together with Hal David penned some of the most memorable and iconic hits of all time. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 25 Jan Icons Of The 80s: Go West, Nik Kershaw & Cutting Crew The three legendary stars join forces for a truly incredible concert experience, featuring all their hit songs. The Spotlight, High Street, Hoddesdon, EN11 8BE. 01992 441946. www.entertainers.co.uk/show/icons-ofthe-80s ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Until 20 Jan Slow Violence Slow Violence’ is a group exhibition that reconsiders the prevalent threat of climate change. UHArts, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, AL10 9AB www.herts.ac.uk/uhbow/whats-on 3-28 Jan Photography Hertford Regional College HND Year 2 Photography students showcase their individual project work Hertford Theatre Gallery, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS

6 Jan - 3 Feb Members’ Show First general show for 2018. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 13-14 Jan CMRA Model Railway Exhibition At least 30 exceptional layouts in many scales, gauges and prototypes will feature at this disability friendly venue, just across the road from the railway station. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 5-Jan The Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night Come & Support the Mayor’s Charity with a night of fun quizzing. £10 per person - tables of 8. Simon Balle School, Hertford. 01992 552885 6-7 Jan Bride: The Wedding Show at Knebworth Barns Meet a large variety of local wedding businesses in person, enjoy the spectacular catwalk show in the designated barn taking place three times daily at 11.30am, 1.15pm and 3pm. Knebworth House, Old Knebworth Lane, Knebworth SG1 2AX www.knebworthhouse.com 10-Jan Tots Tales at Verulamium Museum A story, craft activity and a museum hunt inspired by Kipper’s Snowy Day by Mick Inkpen. Verulamium Museum, St Michael’s Street, St Albans 14-Jan Murder Mystery Evening Join Benslow for their first murder mystery event. Meet the suspects, witness the murder, be a detective and find the killer! £35 per person includes 3-course set menu. Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin. 01462 459446 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 21-Jan Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair Over 45 stalls offering a wide range of antiques and vintage items from costume and jewellery, china, glass, small furniture and more. Open 9.30am4pm. Admission £2. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH

For more listings visit: www.eastlife.co.uk eastlife.co.uk

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he start of the New Year is the perfect time to begin a course or activity and Cambridge is packed full of opportunities to hone or learn a brand new skill. Here are my top five things to try for 2018 in Cambridge:

Relax at CamYoga

If your New Year’s resolution is to feel more relaxed yoga could be what you’re looking for. CamYoga have a number of yoga studios located in Cambridge offering over 100 classes a week including hot yoga and classes especially for beginners. www.camyoga.co.uk

Write your own novel!

Inspired to be the next J.K Rowling or Stephen King? This 12-week novel writing class starting on 9 January can help you pen the book you’ve always wanted to write with advice on how to structure it, fine tune the plot and pitch your novel! www.pennyhancock.com/main-blog/breakthrough-2018-12-weekswrite-novel

Learn a musical instrument

The start of the year is the perfect time to learn the musical instrument you’ve always wanted to know how to play. Pick up the perfect one for you at Millers Music based in Sussex Street. They sell a range of musical instruments including orchestral, pianos and acoustic and electric guitars. www.millersmusic.co.uk

Sing in a choir

Warm up those vocal chords and join a contemporary choir based in Cambridge. Vocal Remix are a current and up-to-date choir where no auditioning is required. It’s all about having fun so why not attend a free taster session and see if it’s for you! www.vocalremix.co.uk

Learn a new language at La Dante

Kickstart the New Year by learning a new language at La Dante based in Hawthorn Way, Cambridge. It’s a fantastic not-for-profit cultural association with Italian and Spanish courses for all ages and abilities. It’s also a great place to meet new people with their fun-packed social events such as cinema screenings and cooking classes! www.ladante-in-cambridge.org

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LEARN TO SING FOR FREE WITH HEREWARD HARMONY

There are many men who would love to sing. Most never get around to it, don’t have the opportunity, or may be too self-conscious to give it a go. The simple fact is that just about everyone can sing, so what could be better than a free course that will help you discover your voice? Hereward Harmony is a well-established male Barbershop Close Harmony Chorus. To celebrate our 30th Anniversary we are running a ‘Learn to Sing’ Course at the Orton Wistow Community Centre, PE2 6XN. The course will be each Thursday from 7.30pm to 10.00pm on the 8th February to the 15th March 2018. You do not have to read music and will sing a part alongside at least one of our experienced singers. You will receive sheet music and teach tracks that will allow you to practice during the week. We are a friendly and sociable chorus and can promise that you will enjoy the experience. It doesn’t matter whether you are new to singing or can already sing but are looking for a different style of music. Progress will be rapid and you may be surprised at how sweet the sound of a four-part harmony is.

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Peterborough

he festive season may be over but 2018 sees a big celebration in Peterborough….

For some towns and cities things slow down in January as preparations are made for spring, but that’s certainly not the case for Peterborough, which is gearing up for a whole year of celebrations with over 100 events already scheduled. This year is the 900th anniversary of Peterborough Cathedral. In honour of the momentous event the ‘Peterborough Celebrates Campaign’ has been launched

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across the city. The aim of the campaign is to increase the footfall in the city, boost tourism on a regional and national level and increase pride in the local area. The celebrations kick off this month with a host of exciting events. There’s just too many events to list here (all details can be found at www.peterboroughcelebrates.org.uk), but here are a couple of dates that you should definitely be adding to your diary:

Burns Night Supper, Friday 19 January Dig out your kilt (or tartan) and get ready to join in the ceilidh for Burns Night. Taking place at Peterborough Cathedral, the celebration will be complete with a Scottish piper, Scottish dancers, a live ceilidh band and caller. Tuck into a delicious meal in the surroundings of the cathedral before getting involved in some traditional Scottish dancing. Tickets priced £100 per person. More details at www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/143/section.aspx/142/burns-night

The Katharine of Aragon Festival, 25-28 January

Katharine of Aragon Festival

The annual festival which commemorates the city’s connection with Katharine of Aragon (the Spanish princess who became Henry VIII’s first queen), returns for 2018. However, this year things are getting a Spanish twist! A special performance on 25 January will use Spanish music, dance and literature to create a bridge between English and Spanish cultures. Katharine of Aragon was buried at Peterborough Abbey in January 1536, following her death in exile at Kimbolton Castle, and there will be a commemoration service at the Cathedral at 10.30am on Friday 26 January, when dignitaries will lay wreaths on Katharine’s tomb. During the festival visitors will be able to learn more about the era with talks by novelist and historian, Alison Weir and historian, Lauren Mackay. Families can get involved with the new familyfriendly Tudor tours of the city and cathedral. All in all, the Katharine of Aragon Festival is a must for Tudor history enthusiasts and anyone with an interest in the UK’s Spanish connections. It is the first major ‘Peterborough Celebrates’ event, marking the Cathedral’s 900th anniversary year.

900 Voices of the River Nene – Nenescape Landscape Partnership Scheme, January and throughout the year

This is something art lovers or those with an interest in the local area will definitely want to be part of. In partnership with an artist, 900 voices will be documented in any form of media of people who live near the River Nene between Northampton and Peterborough. A series of engagement activities will take place and will run throughout the year. A celebratory piece will be created towards the end of the year and throughout 2019 will be taken on tour back up the River Nene and used for engagement for the Nenescape five-year project.

These events are just a taster of what’s on this month and what’s to come in 2018. eastlife.co.uk

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What’s on: Cambridgeshire THEATRE & SHOWS 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! His adventures are only just beginning! Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 12-Jan The Scummy Mummies Show Comedians Helen Thorn and Ellie Gibson cover a wide range of parenting topics, from pelvic floors and play-dates to farting and fish fingers. Expect songs, sketches, stand-up and very scummy stories! The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 12-13 Jan Bring It On Bitingly relevant, sprinkled with sass, and inspired by the hit film, Bring It On The Musical takes audiences on a high-flying journey filled with the complexities of friendship, jealousy, betrayal, and forgiveness. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 16-Jan Rigoletto David McVicar’s production highlights the cruelty at the heart of the court of Mantua. Richly dressed courtiers engage in orgies and revelries to Verdi’s heady, spirited dances. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 16-Jan Greg Davies You Magnificent Beast Following the phenomenal success of his sold out 2017 tour, Greg Davies is taking his critically acclaimed show You Magnificent Beast on tour for the very last time. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 17-20 Jan Sweeney Todd With music and lyrics by Stephen

Sondheim and book by Hugh Wheeler, Sweeney Todd is a tasty theatrical treat that has shocked, awed and thrilled audiences around the world. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 19-Jan In Conversation with Standard Issue Join a line-up of brilliant women, including actress and activist Liz Carr, poet and playwright Hollie McNish, and Standard Issue’s Mickey Noonan and Hannah Dunleavy chatting about funnies, feminism and more. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 19-20 Jan Mr Burns, A Post-Electric Play Anne Washburn’s imaginative dark comedy propels us forward nearly a century, following a new civilization stumbling into its future. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 20-Jan Team Viking: James Rowland This is the remarkable, hilarious, heart-lifting and outlandish story of how James actually gave his best mate the send-off he wanted. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 23-27 Jan The Lady Killers of Orton Brimbles This year the energetic company are turning their attention to the famous 1950s Ealing comedy, ‘The Ladykillers’. Expect the usual fast-paced, anarchic musical mayhem, this time with a Peterborough setting! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 23-27 Jan The Prion King The Addenbrooke’s Charity Pantomime; join heroes, Simba and his friends, as they embark on a journey to become doctors. Standing in their way lies Scarcoma, Simba’s evil uncle,

who with his nefarious team aim to overthrow Simba’s mother Liona Wood, and take control of Savannahbrooke’s. With the threat of the prion disease hanging over them, will our heroes be able to stop Scarcoma’s plans? Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 24-27 Jan Romeo & Juliet The worlds of Carmen and Lorca collide in this vibrant reinvention of Shakespeare’s most passionate drama, performed by a large ensemble cast of actors and musicians. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 25-Jan The Snow Queen This spectacular production follows the story of Gerda and her quest to find her friend Kay, whom the Snow Queen has placed under an evil spell. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 26-Jan Ahir Shah: Control In an age of global socio-political turmoil, Shah presents a show about freedom, fascism, history, hope, resistance, and milk. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 27-Jan Tosca Rivaling the splendor of Franco Zeffirelli’s set and costumes of the Napoleonic era, Sir David McVicar’s ravishing new production offers a splendid backdrop for two extraordinary sopranos sharing the title role of the jealous prima donna: Kristine Opolais and Anna Netrebko. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 27-28 Jan Rainbow Rhythms Encore Dance Academy Rainbow Rhythms - Pupils will be performing dances to; Somewhere Over The Rainbow, True Colours, The Red Shoes Ballet, The Black Swan, Fields of Gold and The Pink Panther. The

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Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 27-Jan Stephen Bailey: Can’t Think Straight Stephen Bailey’s friendly, open brand of gossipy humour has made him one of the most enjoyable acts on the UK comedy circuit today. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 29-Jan The Circus of Horrors The spectacular features an amazing amalgamation of bizarre & fantastic circus acts act’s all woven into a sensational shock horror story and the darkest of magic. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 30-Jan Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde A thrilling adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s dark psychological fantasy, ‘The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll And Mr Hyde’ immerses you in the myth and mystery of 19th century London’s fog-bound streets where love, betrayal and murder lurk at every chilling twist and turn. Gripping, stylish and thought-provoking, this is unmissable theatre. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com MUSIC 13-Jan Cambridge Philharmonic With works by Mozart, Wagner, John Williams (and lots more besides) you can look forward to an action-packed hour of musical entertainment. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 20-Jan Martyn Joseph He’s a jaw dropping guitar player who has developed a unique percussive style, teamed up with a powerful show stopping voice. The Junction, Clifton Way , Cambridge CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 24-Jan The Classic Rock Show Performing the greatest songs from right across the Alphabet of Rock, The Classic Rock Show’s world class

band powers through Classic Rock’s finest moments, from AC/DC and Aerosmith to Eric Clapton. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 25-Jan The Stylistics The Stylistics remain the real deal, fabulously entertaining and musically breathtaking, plying everyone with the hits that made them a household name. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 26-Jan This Is The Kit This Is The Kit - the musical project which holds exceptional Paris-via-Bristol songwriter Kate Stables close to its heart - have earned the adoration of peers including Guy Garvey, The National and Sharon van Etten. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 27 Jan Isaac Gracie Folk singer-songwriter from Ealing Portland Arms, Mitcham’s Corner, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 3BA. 01223 357268 www.isaacgraciemusic.com 30-Jan Martin Carr Formerly songwriter, guitarist, and creative force behind The Boo Radleys and bravecaptain. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 31-Jan Fairport Convention Credited with originating British folk-rock music, the band has been through many changes but the current members retain a passion for live performance. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Until 14 Jan Degas: a passion for perfection Last chance to see this exhibition. The Fitzwilliam Museum will mark the centenary of Degas’s death with an exhibition that will exhibit its holdings of works by the artist – the most extensive and representative

in the UK. The Fitzwilliam Museu, Trumpington Street, Cambridge , CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 2-14 Jan Mixed exhibition featuring Vicky Oldfield Cambirdge Contemporary Gallery, 6 trinity street, cambridge, CB2 1SU. www.cambridgegallery.co.uk 20 Jan - 18 Feb MUGSHOT : Painting the least wanted An exhibition inspired by vintage American Police mugshots from the 1940s, 50s and 60s that focuses on petty criminals from all walks of life. Babylon Gallery, Waterside, Ely, CB7 4AU. 01353 616991. www.babylonarts.org.uk 25 Jan - 2 Feb Mixed Exhibition Sculpture, Craftwork, Hand made original print, Picture and Jewellery. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 17-18 Jan 22nd Cambridge Winter Ale Festival The festival aims to have an emphasis on the darker, richer beers associated with winter, but there’s a wide range of beers of all styles from the UK and around the world, as well as cider and perry. University Social Club, Mill Lane, Cambridge. www.cambridgebeerfestival.com 26-27 Jan 9th Elysian Beer Festival The 9th Elysian Winter Beer Festival is back at the Maltings. Try some of the different beers available! The Maltings, Ely, CB7 4BB. 01353 662633. www.themaltingsely.org.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 13-14 Jan Wood Green Antiques, Collectors & Vintage Weekend With up to 150 stalls, there will be the usual mix of Field Dog Fairs quality stallholders selling a wide and eclectic range of items to suit all tastes and pockets. Open 9.30am - 4.00pm each day, £3 Entry. Wood Green Animal Shelter, Kings Bush Farm, London Road, Godmanchester, PE29 2NH. www.fielddogfairs.com

For full listings visit: www.eastlife.co.uk eastlife.co.uk

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READER PHOTOS of the

MONTH... Veganuary If you’re going Vegan this January then you must join our ‘Vegetarian & Vegan in East Anglia with Eastlife’ Facebook group dedicated to sharing the best places to eat, events and local news across East Anglia!

Shawn Pearce, Abbey Gardens in Bury St Edmunds

Paul Stearman, The Royal Arcade, Norwich

Did you know that one person going vegan for a month could: • spare the suffering of up to 30 animals • save water consumption equivalent to 825 baths • cut carbon emissions equivalent to driving 1500km in a car • prevent deforestation equivalent to 15 football pitches (Stats from TheVeganCalculator com and Cowspiracy.com)

What’s on near you… This month, share your images of Norfolk with us using the hashtag #welovenorfolk

Beat the post-festive blues this January with one of the fantastic events taking place across the region. From exhibitions to gigs, shows and fairs there’s bound to be something that can put a smile on your face during these dull winter months. Take a look at our full listings online or join one of our Facebook events groups – just pop over to www.facebook.com/eastlifemag and click on ‘Groups’.

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