Eastlife January 2019 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

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Two bedroom bungalows built exclusively for the over 55s with prices from ÂŁ247,995 Live in a real community of like minded neighbours The Croft at Baston,

Mayfield Gardens (off Chesham Drive), Baston, Lincolnshire PE6 9QW Telephone 07917 761020 Sales office open: Saturday to Tuesday 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm Email: thecroftatbaston@larkfleethomes.co.uk

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www.larkfleethomes.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

Empty nest – but full life

suppose we are still ‘empty nesters’. The kids have grown up and now have homes of their own, so there’s just the two of us.

But it doesn’t feel as though we’re living in an empty nest any longer. We’ve moved to The Croft at Baston where our new home is ideal for our new circumstances – and our new lifestyle. The old family home was far too big for our needs once the last of the children moved out. And looking after the garden was becoming a real chore. The kids never did much around the house, but at least they mowed the lawn! Moving to The Croft at Baston – a tranquil village between Bourne in Lincolnshire and the city of Peterborough – has allowed us to bank quite a bit of cash. We sold the old house at a very good price and spent much less than that on our new one. Now we’ve started spending the money we made as a result. We’ve bought a new car and next week we’re off on a winter cruise – the first of three holidays we have planned for this year. Not that we feel any need to get away from here. There is a real sense of community at The Croft and, although we’ve only been here a few weeks, we’ve made some good friends. We’ll feel much more relaxed on holiday knowing they’ll keep an eye on the house while we’re away.

The whole development is designed to provide over55s – like us (whether retired or still working) – with the independence of owning our own homes, combined with the benefits of being part of a community of people with a similar outlook on life. The properties are mostly one and two-bedroom bungalows located around attractive walkways and gardens, creating a pleasant residential environment. All of them have been designed to need minimal ongoing maintenance – and our garden is a lot smaller than the one we left behind, so there’s less mowing and weeding! The village itself has a number of shops and excellent pubs with restaurants. We bought one of the larger bungalows so that we have somewhere for the children to stay when they visit. They have already been down a couple of times because it is so easy to get to.

And by the time we get back we may have some new neighbours. The second phase of The Croft has just opened, offering a small number of new homes alongside the completed first phase. It is extending the community but keeping it at a modest scale.

Of course, they expect to be picked up from the station in Peterborough – which is only a few minutes away – but if we want to go into the city ourselves, the frequent bus service provides an easy alternative to using our brandnew car. It does mean we can both have a couple of glasses of wine with lunch without having to worry about driving. We really don’t think of this as an empty nest. It’s a full life at The Croft in Baston, and we’re enjoying it to the full!

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14/12/2018 09:02

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the C-Class Saloon range: urban 22.4(12.6)-54.3(5.2), extra urban 38.2(7.4)-74.3(3.8), combined 30.4(9.3)-65.7(4.3). emissions 213-108 Offi cial government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the C-ClassCO Saloon range: urban 2 g/km. CO2 emissionsextra 132-104 Official EU-regulated test 30.4(9.3)-65.7(4.3). data are provided forCO comparison purposes 22.4(12.6)-54.3(5.2), urbang/km. 38.2(7.4)-74.3(3.8), combined emissions 213-108 2 and actual will depend onOffi driving style, road conditions non-technical factors. g/km. CO2 performance emissions 132-104 g/km. cial EU-regulated test dataand are other provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors.

The new new C-Class C-Class Saloon. Saloon. The Innovation in in every every generation. generation. Innovation

The new C-Class Saloon is ready to take you into the future with a The new Saloon is ready to now take one you of into future with a variety ofC-Class innovations. PARKTRONIC thethe many standard variety ofmakes innovations. PARKTRONIC now onedrivers of the to many standard features it easier for Mercedes-Benz locate, pull into features it easierspaces. for Mercedes-Benz drivers to locate, pull into and pull makes out of parking and pull out of parking spaces. The Mirror Package which offers electrically folding door mirrors The Mirror auto-dimming Package whichrear-view offers electrically folding door mirrors alongside mirror is now standard across the alongside auto-dimming rear-view mirror is new now C-Class standardSaloon, across Keyless the range. Beyond the new refinements to the range. Beyond thea new refinements to thetouch new C-Class Saloon, Keyless Start sits beside 3-spoke multifunction control steering wheel Start sits be beside touch steeringtowheel that can usedato3-spoke controlmultifunction the new 10.25 inchcontrol media screen display that can be usedNavigation to control the new 10.25 inch media With screen to display Mercedes-Benz or the optional COMAND. more highMercedes-Benz the ever optional COMAND. more high-on end technology Navigation as standardorthan before; whetherWith in rush hour, end standard ever routes, before; your whether rush hour, on longtechnology journeys atasnight or on than unknown newinMercedes-Benz long journeys at will night or ondriving unknown routes, your new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon make significantly easier. C-Class Saloon will make driving significantly easier.

The best or nothing. The best or nothing.

Mercedes-Benz St Edmunds of Norwich Mercedes-Benz of of Bury Norwich, Barker Street, Mercedes-Benz Norwich NR2 4TN 01284 759676 01603 980800 01603 980800 ofwww.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz Mercedes-Benz Norwich, Barker Street, Norwich NR2 4TN Mercedes-Benz Cambridge Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01603 980800 of www.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz 01223 401100 01553 777307

Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01603 980800 www.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz

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 - Craig Lewis craig@eastlife.co.uk

ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129

SALES ENQUIRIES Darren Marshall - 01954 267088 Stewart Hedges - 01954 267164 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635

HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge, CB23 4EY

Special thanks to our contributors Gerla De Boer, Dolly Osborne, Sue Cooke, Katrina Otter, Collette Hoefkens, Wendy Howes, Ruth Essex, Mike Garside, Kate Garside, Victoria Magnall, Ruby Reed, Abby Knight, Karen Rhodes, Tessa Beecroft, Suzanne Archer, The Suffolk Spy

editor

From the

Dear Reader, There are no January blues here, just pages of inspiration to help you get out and about and make a few good changes; be it within your life, health or home. With a New Year, comes new beginnings and we have you covered. Start your New Year by giving your home a little TLC. From renovations and refurbishments to kitchen overhauls and interior trends, there’s no room we’ve left untouched. A promise to get fit and healthier is a great way to start the year, but if you’re beginning to struggle, then read our guide to maintaining the health kick on page 58. Perhaps this year you’re one of the thousands of people who are trying ‘Veganuary’ for the first time, if so, we’ve made eating out a little easier with our pick of the best vegan food trucks, plus there’s a whole community of support with our Vegetarian & Vegan Facebook group. Join the chat at www.facebook.com/groups/ Veggieandvegan. If you need something to look forward to read our guide to the biggest 2019 events on page 19. Wishing you a Happy New Year!

Emma Kemsley

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.

On the

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Find us on online: /eastlifemag @eastlifemag

@eastmagazines www.eastlife.co.uk

Snowy Prentice Street Amie was born in Suffolk in 1991. She has lived and worked there all her life, with the exception of studying Fine Art at Aberystwyth University in Wales. Her work is inspired by places of personal meaning. She is both a painter and printmaker and is represented by galleries in Suffolk, Norfolk and Hertfordshire.

DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR EASTLIFE ON THE GO Available on the Google Play and Apple App Stores. Just search “eastlife”

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eastlife.co.uk

On all orders placed before 31st December 2018

9-11 AROUND THE REGION

A round-up of monthly news and events

15-17 SPAS

The best spas for a detox

19-21 2019 EVENTS

A guide to this year’s biggest events

24-25 FREE THINGS TO DO Budget-friendly days out

30-37 EDUCATION Spring open days

43-45 DOG-FRIENDLY

Tails About Town and how to get fit with your pet

47 LITTLE EAST Mum’s the Word

49-55 FOOD & DRINK

News, the Cambridge Foodie, vegan food trucks & cosy pubs 58-67 HEALTH How to maintain the health kick

69-71 FASHION

Get ahead with a hat and savvy sale shopping

74-75 WEDDINGS 2019 trends

Contents

January 2019

81-105 INTERIORS

Top tips & expert advice for giving your home a stylish makeover

107-109 ARTS

125-129 NORFOLK

110-115 ESSEX

132-137 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS

Monthly column and the latest news

141

10 of the best Essex villages to visit in 2019

117-123 SUFFOLK

A guide to Stowmarket and Saxmundham

Secret Norfolk; vegan hotspots

Why we love Hertford & Ware

139-145 CAMBRIDGESHIRE

The Cambridge Scene and what’s on in Peterborough

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N NG E N TI OP LDE KE A AR OW W M N ON E IT FR SU SAF IN

Private retirement living at its finest

DEBDEN GRANGE

Cottages ready Summer 2019 Apartments ready Summer 2020 Buy off plan now to secure your plot 01799 243888 | www.debdengrange.co.uk debdengrange@retirementvillages.co.uk VISIT US at our Marketing Suite: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm. OPEN 27th - 29th December CLOSED - 24th - 26th December, 30th December - 1st January Debden Grange Marketing Suite, 6 Rose & Crown Walk, Saffron Walden, CB10 1JH

Eastlife Diary

Around

the region

The Neutrinos 20th anniversary concert + special guests Graceland Saturday 26 January 8pm Norwich Arts Centre, St Benedicts Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG Fronted by the charismatic Karen Reilly, The Neutrinos are very much more than a just a rock band, they constantly experiment with the concept of what a live gig can (and should) be to break down both real and imagined barriers between the band and the audience. Tickets £9.50 advance, £11.50 on the door. www.norwichartscentre.co.uk

Respect to Aretha 18 January The Alive Corn Exchange, Kings Lynn, Norfolk A brand-new UK tour starring Letitia George. A heartfelt and uplifting dedication to the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Life-long Aretha Franklin fan and power-house vocalist, Letitia George, rose to the spotlight after featuring on series 4 of BBC 1’s The Voice UK, where she became a member of Team Ricky and soared her way through to the knockout rounds. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk/ whats-on

The English Concert Saturday 26 January, Saffron Hall, Saffron Walden CB11 4UH The high baroque era was an age of limitless musical possibilities – of brilliant innovations, virtuoso reworks, and music of electrifying theatricality and grandeur. The English Concert, led from the harpsichord by Harry Bicket, celebrate all that splendour in a concert of Vivaldi, Purcell, Locatelli & Bach. Tickets priced from £14-£32. www. saffronhall.com

Open Mic night @ Hitchin Starbucks with Hazel Askew Special Guest Sunday 20 January, from 5pm FREE ENTRY If you play an instrument, sing or perform, this is for you! This is an Open Mic night with a twist! Perform live and get feedback on your performance from celebrated musician Hazel Askew. You’ll get tips on how to improve your technique, your stage presence, or anything else you want! This is a special collaboration between Queensway and Benslow Music. To take part call 01462 459446 to reserve a spot or visit www.benslowmusic.org/concerts

Sing Out Saturdays – sing yourself free in 2019! Have you always wanted to sing, but never got around to it? Do you love to sing but want to do more? Do you want to sing yourself free and have fun? Help is at hand! Singing leader Chris Rowbury runs regular singing get-togethers in Hadleigh. These fun and friendly mornings of song are open to anyone who wants to sing. They take place every third Saturday of the month. Sing Out Saturdays run from 10.30am to 1pm. They are held at the Ansell Community Centre, Market Place, Hadleigh, IP7 5DL. The first session of 2019 is on Saturday 19 January. Simply turn up on the day – no commitment needed and you don’t have to come every month. Sessions cost only £9 per person including refreshments. www.singoutsaturdays.co.uk

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Around region the

The Grafton Centre, Cambridge gets a make over If you’re a regular visitor to Cambridge, you will have noticed the works taking place at The Grafton Centre for some time, but finally (just in time for Christmas), its grand refurbishment was revealed. The centre has undergone a £28.5 million refurbishment and reconfiguration to create bright and open spaces, adding to its shopping, leisure and dining facilities, bringing everything together under one roof at the Fitzroy Street mall. Shoppers can now benefit from improved stores and new openings, including River Island’s anchor store in a prominent position at the front of the mall, which has consolidated its existing, smaller River Island Boutique. The new store will feature the brand’s newest look-andfeel concept and will showcase a wider selection of the latest women’s, men’s and children’s clothing and accessories.

The Debenhams store has also undergone a significant refurbishment to create the addition of its new ‘beauty hall of the future’. It was one of only five Debenhams stores to receive investment in the country and to roll out the new concept. The beauty hall merges an online and instore shopping experience with digital screens streaming social media content and videos. It now stocks brands such as Murad skin care and Kat Von D make up, which is vegan and cruelty free, as well as emerging make up brands such as Laura Gellar. Shoppers can enjoy the Benefit Brow Bar and the addition of a ‘pick and mix’ make up section. The reconfiguration of the former BHS store has created new opportunities within the centre, with the first floor opened up and connected to the former food court area to create the new Food Social dining quarter. It is home to the independent, family-owned Amélie, which opened last year. Food Social will be home to eight casual dining restaurants and will be integrated with the centre’s leisure offer, including a revamped, eight-screen Vue Cinema, and a new Pure Gym health club. John O’Shea, Centre Manager at The Grafton said: “The end result is a new identity for the centre, a significantly improved customer experience and an enhanced retailer, restaurant and leisure offering. “Both River Island and Debenhams have invested to increase and improve their presence at the centre. This has not only further strengthened the fashion offer at the centre but also introduced a host of exciting beauty brands that cannot be found elsewhere in Cambridge.”

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New Term of Leisure Learning at Ipswich Institute Enrolments are now being taken for the Spring Term of Adult, Leisure Learning evening courses at the Ipswich Institute. A range of over 20 evening courses are on offer at the historic town centre premises in Tavern Street and the Admiral’s House in Tower Street. On-going favourites include languages (including various levels of French, Italian, Spanish, Latin and Japanese), Guitar, Ukulele and Photography, plus a variety of arts and crafts (including Sketchbooking, Printmaking, Textiles, and Life Drawing). New for the Spring Term are Computer Programming using Java; an introduction to the programming language which will enable you to create and run your own programs on your own PC, Moving On; an informal and friendly course to help you increase your confidence in life’s changes – be it employment, domestic, or in

social situations and Public Speaking, which enables you be confident about speech making – whether in business, education or for social functions. Enrolment is available now and the spring term takes place Monday – Thursday evenings from Week Commencing 14 January. You may book in person at the Institute or reserve your place by calling 01473 253992. www.ipswichinstitute.org.uk

A new lease of life is given to Woodland Manor Hotel, Bedfordshire Peterborough Telegraph’s Young Entrepreneur of the year, Raj Regmi, has renovated Woodland Manor Hotel, in Clapham, Bedfordshire. The renovation which include updates and transformation, while retaining its grandeur, has taken eight months. The changes to the manor house include structural work in the Autographs room, replacement carpets and furnishings, redecoration and removal of years and years of overgrowth of ivy to the façade of the manor.

The boutique-style hotel is now open and features 34 bedrooms. The venue will be available for weddings, events, afternoon tea, business and leisure. It will also feature on Channel 4s series ‘Escape to the Manor’. www.woodlandmanorhotel.co.uk

Warm up this winter with Orion Heating Winter is truly here and if you’re feeling the chill, Orion Heating, the fireplace and stove business in Takeley, Essex, can provide lots of ideas for adding character to a modern room. Without a focal point, the living room in a new build property can need something extra. Improvements in gas fire technology have created new types of fireplace with a large window, lots of natural flames and visual impact. A modern gas fire can provide a traditional focal point to a previously bare wall or create a stunning modern feature fireplace. Just like a central heating boiler, Balanced Flue stoves or fireplaces can flue straight through the wall, with no need for chimneys or exterior pipe runs. Plus the fire is entirely room-sealed, making it safe and very economical to run. Being warm and stylish has never been so easy! Find out how Orion Heating can help improve your home at www.orionheating.co.uk

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visit our website

highlodge.co.uk do see what else we

01986 784347 | www.highlodge.co.uk

Ickworth Indulge your new love for winter walks and watch as our historic displays of snowdrops light up the pathways. Book one of our guided tours or take it at your own pace. When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone.

nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth

OPEN NORWICH ALEXANDER ANATOLE ENTERTAINMENT presents

THE SIXTIES INVASION

TAKING YOU BACK TO THE MOST EXCITING MUSICAL TIME IN HISTORY, WHEN POP MUSIC WAS AT ITS BEST!

TICKETS

£22.50 Plus booking fee

#nationaltrust

20 BANK PLAIN, NORWICH, NR2 4SF

22ND MARCH 2019 - 19:30 FEATURING THESE WORLD FAMOUS BANDS

DOZY, BEAKY, MICK AND TICH

60’s Hitmakers Dozy, Beaky, Mick and Tich Hits include: Hold Tight, The Legend of Xanadu, Zabadak, Hideaway, Bend It and Save Me

In a special one off appearance, They carry the legend forward playing the worldwide number one record TELSTAR, they create a beat stomping show that does not disappoint.

Hits include: Build Me Up Buttercup, Now that I’ve found you.

SEATED EVENT, TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT PLEASE BOOK IN ADVANCE

TO BOOK PLEASE CALL: 01603 763111 OR VISIT www.seetickets.com I www.thesixtiesinvasion.com

Lifestyle

Revitalise at the

Region’s Best Spas! Written by Ruby Reed Instagram @rubymayree Ruby is the author of ‘Loyal Liar’ available on Amazon

ew Year is always about a New You. But sometimes the task or promise we make ourselves can take its toll. Well how about something that’s not going to get old - a pledge to look after ourselves a little better. Liking the sound of this? Me too…

I don’t know about you, but I can probably count on one hand my spa experiences. Is that normal? But when I think about it, why not have a time out more often? There is nothing I like more than a gentle swim, sauna and steam room. Don’t forget to throw in a treatment, you deserve it! It’s so important to de-stress occasionally so here are few of the best places around to do this…

Ufford Park in Woodbridge, Suffolk

Bedford Lodge in Newmarket, Suffolk Now how about this, bring the spa to you! You may need the boss’ permission but hey I know what I’m raising in the next office meeting. The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel have launched its ‘Wellbeing in the Workplace’ Initiative for the local community. The visiting therapists provide a choice of treatments that are bespoke to the client’s needs. Designed for workers across all industries, the pop-up spa offers a mini menu of treatments to provide an immediate improvement in staff productivity and mood. Choose from an Indian head massage to reduce tension in pressure points, a hand and arm massage to relax computer finger and hand aches and mini-foot treatments for those that are on their feet. To find out more get the boss to call 01638 676130. www.bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk

A day (or half day) of relaxation here is very flexible. Consisting of two, three and six-hour time-slots, you can choose the amount of time to spend at Ufford Parks Thermal Suite alongside that spent experiencing your treatment. Just book your time slot with the therapists – even when booking you don’t have to commit to a treatment as you can choose on the day of your visit, which is ideal if you can’t decide just yet or are prone to changing your mind! The ‘Thermal Suite’ experience is based on the ancient ritual of bathing, where the body is treated using a series of hot and cooling experiences, guiding your body through a sensory journey. Facilities include a hydro pool, aroma steam room and ice fountain. Oooh sign me up! To find out more contact the spa team directly on 01394 386871. www.uffordpark.co.uk

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Varsity Hotel in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire I’m really excited about this one - how have I never been? This restored bonded warehouse has a Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and state-ofthe-art gym overlooking the river - the ultimate place to relax, rejuvenate and de-stress. You can create your own bespoke spa day or half day which can include afternoon tea or lunch in the SIX Panoramic Brasserie (one of my favourite restaurants and one of the best views in Cambridge might I add). A wide range of massages, facials, body treatments including waxing, nails, eyes and hair care are available for couples, gents and mums-to-be. A lovely way to remember a special occasion. They are refurbing in January, so be one of the first to experience! To find out more and book early to avoid disappointment contact 01223 306030. www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk

Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa in King’s Lynn, Norfolk The aim is to leave your stresses at the door when you book yourself into the brand new spa at Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa. This must experience is in a location surrounded by gorgeous woodland and countryside which only adds to the calming ambience on offer. Bookings are available as an individual, couple or group, with each person being able to select the spa treatments or beauty therapies they want. Don’t worry about following the crowd – it’s whatever your heart desires, Norfolk Woods provides. Oh and the food on offer here is up to just as high a standard as the spa treatments. This month they launch their brand new cosy lodges perfect for a weekend break, some even include a private hot tub! If you’re reluctant to leave you may be interested to know they also sell holiday lodges located onsite! For further information on Norfolk Woods call 01760 751370. www.darwinescapes.co.uk/parks/norfolk-woods-resort-spa

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Greenwoods Hotel & Spa, Essex Just voted Essex Wedding Award’s Venue of the Year, this stunning spa is based in a grade II listed building that has nine treatment rooms. It offers a range of professional treatments alongside a 20 metre pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam and relaxation rooms. During your stay you have the chance to use the newly refurbished gym and join in a fun class including HITT and yoga. A ‘Winter Warmer’ package is available Monday to Friday which includes full use of spa facilities, a delicious two-course lunch in Ellis’ restaurant, a deep tissue back massage and blissful foot and leg massage with hot mitts, both for 20 minutes. Ideal for a little New Year pampering, especially after a hectic festive season! Ahhhh. Call the reservations team on 01277 829990. With all these treats waiting to be enjoyed, I think 2019’s New Year’s resolution of taking better care of ourselves might not be too hard after all!

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Reg. Charity No 307534

W W W. S H U T T L E W O R T H . O R G

SHUTTLEWORTH, OLD WARDEN AERODROME, SG18 9EP - 01767 627927 Shuttleworth is a visitor attraction with lots to offer for all ages. The Collection is a treasure trove of airworthy vintage aircraft, agricultural exhibits, classic cars, motorcycles, bicycles and vintage buses. Our adjacent Swiss Garden has 13 listed structures, woodland sculpture walk and a resident peacock. Flying displays take place May-October, events and children’s activities run throughout the year. We have a children’s play area, on-site restaurant, free wifi, Visitor Centre with gift shop and free parking!

DAILY ADMISSION: www.shuttleworth.org/book-a-ticket 2018 12 Woodbridge Talk Jan Disco.qxp_135mm h x 89mm w 06/12/201

Ufford Park Woodbridge

and

80’s 90’s 90’s 80’s DISCO DISCO

SOMETHING R O F K C U T S WEEK? TO DO THIS Visit us www.eastlife.co.uk for the latest events in your area.

Friday 18th January 7:30pm to midnight Walk this way & get into the groove as we celebrate the good times.

DON’T FORGOT TO ENTER OUR COMPETITIONS! www.eastlife.co.uk/lifestyle/competitions/

£9.50 per person

Due to popular demand tickets must be purchased in advance. Nachos with melted cheese and salsa (£3.50) and chunky chips (£3.00) will be available Limited seating

Fancy dress optional

t 01394 383555 ext. 325 w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW

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2019 Diary Dates T

he festive fun is over and the month ahead may look dreary but don’t let the January blues get you down. The region’s biggest and most exciting events have started to announce 2019 dates, so give yourself something to look forward to and book your ticket to one of the most highly anticipated events of the year…but hurry, tickets won’t be around for long!

Horror-On-Sea Film Festival,

11- 13 and 18-20 January Park Inn by Radisson Palace Hotel, Southend, Essex Since its inception in 2012, Horror-On-Sea has grown to become the UK’s largest independent festival devoted to the genre and for the first time, will now be spread across two weekends. From vampires to hookers with hacksaws, murderous hillbillies selling strange ‘beef’ to hellacious cats named ‘Angel’, Horror-on-Sea promises full-length features and shorts from across the whole horror spectrum - including killer donuts. Unlike the fate of many characters in the films, tickets won’t cost moviegoers an arm and a leg. Prices start at just £6 per film, from £25 for a Day Pass and, for serious fans, a Mega Festival Pass - that gets you into everything – offers unbeatable value deal at £100 for the entire festival. www.horror-on-sea.com

David Austrin 40 years of the Winter Garden Saturday 9 February, 10am to 1pm Cambridge University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge CB2 1JE Price: £35

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour February – March

The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is celebrating its 10th year of touring the UK and Ireland, bringing over 100 adrenaline-packed shows to almost 60 venues from January to May. It features two different collections of brand-new films from the world’s most intrepid film-makers, starring pioneers and explorers tackling extraordinary expeditions in the wildest corners of the planet. The tour will be visiting the Cambridge Corn Exchange from 15-16 February, St Albans Alban Arena on 19 March and Norwich Theatre Royal on 20 March. www.banff-uk.com

To celebrate 40 years of Cambridge University Botanic’s Winter Garden, join horticulturist David Austrin, from the team who cares for the garden, and discover his top 10 winter plants to making your garden sparkle right through the season. David will take you on a tour of the oldest winter garden in the country to find out which plants make it so special. With tips and time for questions, you’ll leave inspired to create your own winter garden plantings at home. Booking required. www.botanic.cam.ac.uk Photo credit Ben Tibbetts

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The Solid Silver 60s Show

March to April Southend, St Albans & Milton Keynes Celebrating the original package shows of the 1960s, where fans would see a raft of artists performing their hits on one incredible bill, the show has been performed to over a million people since its first tour in 1985. You can catch a performance at Southend Cliffs Pavilion on 15 March, St Albans Alban Arena on 10 April and Milton Keynes Theatre on 14 April.

Essex’s Big Weekend 6-7 April

2019 will see Visit Essex’s third Big Weekend, when hundreds of residents will be able to visit some of the county’s finest tourist attractions for free. The event is designed to encourage residents to rediscover the amazing things to see and do in their home county. Attractions will be donating free tickets for residents to bid on from 21 February, and two tickets per household will be allocated by ballot to the lucky winners (some family tickets will be available as well). www.essexbigweekend.co.uk

Forest Live, 21-23 June

Norfolk & Norwich Festival

Thetford Forest, near Brandon, Suffolk

10-26 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. ‘A Simple Space’ by Gravity & Other Myths will headline the Adnams Spiegeltent, where seven acrobats push their physical limits without reserve. Norwich Theatre Royal will host enchanting dance performances from the likes of ‘Bells and Spells’ and ‘Blak Whyte Gray’. The full line up can be found at www.nnfestival.org.uk

Bury St Edmunds Festival 17 – 26 May

Now in its 34th year, enjoy 10 packed days of great music, theatre, comedy, film and other art forms with top performances by artists of international renown alongside home-grown talent. Venues range from The Apex and Theatre Royal to St Edmundsbury Cathedral, the Abbey Gardens and Moyse’s Hall Museum. The full programme will be available from February at www.buryfestival.co.uk

If you haven’t been to a Forest Live gig, make sure it’s on your to do list this year! Taking place in Thetford Forest, the gigs host some of the biggest names in music and are a great opportunity to make the most of the light evenings and enjoy fantastic live music with the backdrop of the woodlands. This year Paul Weller takes to the stage on 21 June, followed by Jess Glynne on 22 June. Tickets are priced from £44.50, and money raised from ticket sales will help to look after the nation’s forests sustainably, for people to enjoy and wildlife to thrive. Tickets are now on sale. www.forestryengland.uk/music

TASTE Bedford

13 July, 11am - 6pm, Mill Meadows, Bedford Bedford’s annual food and music festival returns to Mill Meadows with more street food, food demos, local producers, live music and kid’s activities than ever before. This hugely popular event is a great day out for all the family. It’s free to attend - just make sure you go hungry! www.bedpop.co.uk

Red Rooster

30 May – 1 June, Euston Hall, Suffolk The RnB, Americana, Blues, Soul, Roots and Country music festival is back for another year with a stellar line-up of artists including headliners Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets, rock’n’rollers Low Cut Connie, country music maverick Dale Watson & His Lone Stars, Jesse Dayton and Errol Linton to name a few! It’s not just the music that makes this festival a sell-out, its laid back vibe, soul food, location and fantastic camping facilities makes it a popular choice with families of all ages. Don’t think twice about booking! Weekend tickets priced from £69.50. www.redrooster.org.uk

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Classic Ibiza 31 August Hatfield House, Hertfordshire Classic Ibiza is bringing its heady blend of Balearic beats back to Hatfield House this year, following the resounding success of last summer’s concert. Classic Ibiza starts with a chill-out set where people can enjoy their picnics and a drink, or dance along as the sun fades. Then DJ Goldierocks will turn things up in the interval, getting the crowd into the mood before the Urban Soul Orchestra and vocalists return to the stage to bring a vibrant atmosphere to the summer evening. One classic dance track will follow another, as the delightful grounds of Hatfield House turn into a magical, alfresco celebration, with accompanying lasers. Tickets from £39.50. www.classicibiza.co.uk

Thriller Live at Newmarket Nights 19 July, Newmarket Racecourse, Suffolk

If you’re a Michael Jackson fan this is one not to be missed! For the first time Newmarket Nights will host Thriller Live on its stage – a spectacular concert created to celebrate the career of the world’s greatest entertainer, Michael Jackson. Now in its 10th year, the two hour West End production will take you on an electrifying visual and audio journey through the magic of Michael’s 45-year musical history, playing his greatest hits and paying homage to Jackson’s legendary innovative dance moves executed with flair. This show is guaranteed to have you dancing! Tickets priced from £25. www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk

SpectaculArts Carnival

7 September, Bedford Park, Bedford Bedford is known for its wonderfully diverse population and the SpectaculArts Carnival will bring the town’s communities together for a town-wide carnival celebration. The parade throughout the town centre will be a moving show, featuring actors, musicians, storytellers, audience participation, street performers and spoken word, culminating in a festival in Bedford Park. Absolutely unmissable! @SpectaculArts

HighTide Festival

10-15 September, Aldeburgh, Suffolk

Cool Britannia Festival

30 August - 1 September Knebworth House, Hertfordshire Back by popular demand, Cool Britannia will continue to tend to the needs of rock and dance music fans in 2019 with camping, glamping, street food, themed bars, street entertainers, funfairs, kid-zone, fireworks, trade stands, karaoke and much more! TV and radio presenter Jo Whiley will curate the Main Stage on Saturday 31 August. The full line up will be announced later this month. www.coolbritanniafest.com.

Returning to the coastal town for another year, the festival brings together political, contemporary and provocative work, created by new and diverse artists. At the centre of the Aldeburgh event will be ‘LIT’; a coproduction between HighTide and Nottingham Playhouse Theatre Company. It explores the turbulent teenage years of a girl looking for love in all the wrong places. The performance joins ‘Rust’ as the headline productions for HighTide Festivals Aldeburgh and Walthamstow. The full festival programme will be announced in May when tickets go on sale. www.hightide.org.uk

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Advertorial

2019 EVENTS Bressingham Steam Museum

Heritage Steam Gala

Saturday 4 May 2019 to Monday 6 May 2019

A celebration of steam at Bressingham Steam Museum. The highlight of Bressingham’s events calendar where there will be over 20 engines in steam each day over this special Bank Holiday Weekend! The Gala will officially welcome vertical boiler 2ft locomotive ‘Fernilee’ to Bressingham. This engine has joined the Bressingham Collection on loan and will be seen throughout the weekend performing a number of duties on the Fen Railway. The museum will be joined by a number of visiting traction engines and steam rollers over weekend. Please visit www.bressingham.co.uk for full listings of the engines

1940s Day

Sunday 12 May 2019

A Celebration of Croft and Perry. Bressingham will once again be supported by the Dad’s Army Appreciation Society as they celebrate 50 years of Dad’s Army. We are pleased to announce that Bressingham will be joined by some of the cast and crew from Croft and Perry sitcoms. Our special guests will be making appearances throughout the day. We are expecting the following actors to attend our 1940s event: Michael Knowles , John Clegg, Frank Williams, Harold Snoad, Ronnie Grainge, Dave Webb, Charles Garland, Felicity Montagu, Jon Pertwee (Son of Bill Pertwee), Nicholas Ridley (Son of Arnold Ridley) & more Bressingham will be full of displays, entertainment and stalls which includes music from Sounds from the era performed by Timescape, Swing & jive from Texas Tommy and the Jitterbug dancers. Living history/ re-enactment groups which include Allied Star Re-enactment group, The Royal Norfolk’s Living History Group. The Ethan Reuban History boys and Airbourne Assault 44 Vehicles: A variety of period vehicles will be on display throughout the museum grounds with support from the Norfolk Military Vehicle Group.

Steampunk Weekend Sat 6 Jul 2019 to Sun 7 Jul 2019

Stalls: There will be a variety of trade stalls including Robert Taylor Military Collectables, vintage hand knits & 1940s Style for You

A fabulous weekend of Norfolk punkery at BresSteam BresSteam. A celebration of all things Steampunk. A festival of the future as Victorians may have imagined it. Splendid costume, creativity, imagination and invention. Amongst Bressingham’s magnificent collection of functioning Steam Engines. Steampunk Market Where you will be able to purchase all manner of exciting Steampunk artefacts, we currently have thirteen traders booked.. Tea Duelling and Umbrella Fencing and more provided by Steampunk Shenanigans.

Nothing up our sleeves An informal collective of highly skilled and sumptuously attired Magicians, Jugglers, Comedians and Comperes.

For more info and more events go to www.bressingham.co.uk

Steam Heritage|Gardens|Garden Centre

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

2019 Season Opens Friday 29 March 2019 check www.bressingham.co.uk or call 01379 686900 for further details Find us on Facebook & Twitter just search for Bressingham Steam

8 Things to do on a Budget in January S

o Christmas is over, you’re partied out and that credit card bill is weighing heavily on your mind. There’s no need to succumb to the January blues though as luckily the best things in life are free (or almost)! So, wrap up warm, grab a flask of hot tea and get out and about…

1. See the Seals in Norfolk A fun day out for friends, family or just by yourself. Take your camera and/or binoculars and walk the Norfolk coastline this January. You’ll find a whole host of seals and their babies whilst they hang on the beaches waiting for the baby pups to be old enough to swim. Best beaches for seal spotting: Horsey, Waxham, Blakeney Point and Brancaster

2. Culture in Cambridge Entry to the Fitzwilliam Museum (www.ﬁtzmuseum.cam. ac.uk) and the Sedgwick Museum (www.sedgwickmuseum.org) is free, although donations are welcomed. From lunchtime talks to exhibitions and displays you can get out of the cold and happily while away a few hours. You can also pop along to Kings College Chapel for Evensong, 5.30pm Mon – Sat and 10.30 or 3.30pm on Sunday (www.kings.cam.ac.uk/events/chapel-services).

3. Explore Essex and walk in Constable’s footsteps There is nothing nicer than warming up in front of the fire with a hot chocolate and the Essex countryside is perfect to enjoy a brisk winter walk! Dedham Vale and Stour Valley combine picturesque villages, farmland, rivers and woodlands for unspoilt views across the countryside. This is Constable Country, an area of outstanding beauty, so take a stroll through the scenes from some of his most famous landscapes.

4. Free Family friendly fun in Bedfordshire There’s a whole world of free, family friendly fun to be discovered in Bedford! Pop into the Cecil Higgin’s art

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gallery for free children events or to take a look at their collections, explore the Stockwood Discovery Centre in Luton, educate the kids about conservation at the Forest Centre in the Millennium Country Park in Marston Vale or take a guided tour of Stotwold Watermill and Nature Reserve.

5. Healthy walking in the Cambridgeshire countryside Every Thursday walkers meet at Wandlebury Country Park for a stroll around the beautiful park. All abilities are welcome and there’s a choice of either a long walk starting at 10am or short route at 10.30am. Meet at the Stable Rooms, enjoy a lovely walk and finish at around 11am for tea and coffee. It’s a great opportunity to get out and about, become healthier and meet new people. The event is free to attend but donations towards the up keep of the park are welcome. There’s no need to book, just arrive 10 minutes early to register. www.cambridgeppf.org/whats-on

6. Join a local reading group Not an outdoors person? Luckily our region’s libraries have a huge choice of reading groups to enable you to connect with like-minded people and make new friends this January. Ask for details in your local library or take a look online. Suffolk: www.suﬀolklibraries.co.uk Norfolk: www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries-local-history-and-ar chives/libraries Cambridge: www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/librar ies-leisure-&-culture/libraries Essex: www.libraries.essex.gov.uk Bedford: www.bedford.gov.uk/leisure_and_culture/ libraries.aspx

7. Treasure seeking at antique stores

8. Vintage vocation

Hidden throughout the countryside of Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex you’ll find antique stores selling gorgeous furnishings and wares of a time gone by. Great for browsing or buying items such as mirrors, kitchenalia or a statement piece of furniture for your home, it’s easy to spend hours hunting for a bargain! A few favourites include Holt Antiques & Interiors Centre, Suffolk Heritage Antiques & Reclaim Centre in Copdock and Reed & Son in Saffron Walden, Essex. Don’t forget to take a look at our website for hundreds of antique fairs taking place throughout the year, most are free to attend or cost as little as £1 entry.

All aboard! Steam trains and vintage railways are one of the highlights of the East of England. Hop aboard the Colne Valley Railway in Essex, Bure Valley Railway, the North Norfolk Railway or the Wells & Walsingham Light Railway in Norfolk for a budget-friendly day of fun. Bressingham Gardens and Museum is well worth a visit too. Ride its locomotives or steam gallopers into the woodlands, wander around the gardens and discover the Dad’s Army exhibition.

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Where your children make big discoveries

Our Forest School lets them grow and explore in a woodland wonderland. Come and see ďŹ rst hand what Duncombe has to offer, contact Lucy.Evans@duncombe-school.co.uk

duncombe-school.co.uk

facebook.com/duncombeschool

FORTHCOMING OPEN MORNINGS Saturday 9 February

General Open Morning

Saturday 27 April

General Open Morning

“A lovely place to study” GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE 2016

CAMBRIDGE’S ONLY BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AND BOYS AGED 11 - 18 TO AT TEND AN OPEN MORNING OR ARRANGE A VISIT CONTACT admissions@theleys.net

LOVELY PLACE_OPEN MORNING_168x240mm_AUG 2018.indd 1

www.theleys.net

01223 508904

31/07/2018 16:32

Open Morning

Thursday, 14 March 2019 10.00am to 12.00pm

Headmaster’s introduction at 10.15am

Full tour of the School

3+ 7+ 11+

For further information please contact the Admissions Registrar.

registrar@staubyns.com 020 8504 1577 Bunces Lane, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 9DU

co-educational

independent

age 3 to 13

www.staubyns.com

central line woodford

So much to discover

Registered Charity No: 270143

nt” “Excelle gory te a c y r In eve pection -ISI Ins

They might need all day... We are now introducing 7.30am-6pm wraparound

Book a tour today

01277 243 291 www.brentwoodschool.co.uk

Established in 1862, Haileybury is a top co-educational boarding and day school for 11â&#x20AC;&#x201C;18 year olds on a historic 500 acre campus in Hertfordshire, just 20 miles north of London. 11+ & 13+ Open Morning Saturday 16 March 2019 11+ Open Morning Wednesday 15 May 2019 16+ Open Evening Thursday 20 June 2019 Booking and additional dates: haileybury.com Individual visits: admissions@haileybury.com 01992 706 353

HaileyburyUK

Creating a New Life at any Age

Written by Cindy Galvin

ore people than ever are delaying retirement by leveraging the skills, wisdom and experience they’ve gained from decades of working to create new businesses or job opportunities. You can be one of them.

There’s never been a better time for people aged 50 and older who feel drawn to doing something different for the rest of their working career to be successful in achieving this. The traditional retirement age of 65 is giving way as an increasingly large number of us are working well into our 60s, 70s and 80s. People still retire in their 60s, and even earlier if they feel financially secure, and opt to do things like travel or spend more time with family. But for those who want, or need, to retain an income, the ability to continue working later in life is important. The employment rate for people aged 50 to 75 has grown significantly, according to the UK’s Department of Works and Pensions. Between 1985 and 2015 it rose over 14% for people aged 50 to 64 and doubled for those aged 65 and over.

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A key factor in this phenomenon is the millions of baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 who are either in retirement age or nearing it. Another is the freedom and flexibility we have because of the internet and an explosion of software innovation that allows us to connect globally, issue invoices, take payments and work nearly anywhere we want. We are better educated and more focused on health than any preceding generation, which means we are living longer and are simply not ready to stop.There are five steps I believe are crucial to achieving success later in life. These form the basis of the Platform for Success programme I developed after realising the lack of clear direction available for people going through later in life career transitions. The first is clarity. You’re unlikely to achieve your goal without having a clear vision. It’s like taking a road trip without having a map. You’ll eventually get where you want to go, but it will take longer than if you’d planned. The second is confidence. As Henry Ford said: “If you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.” You can have the best intentions in the world for what you want to do, but you won’t achieve it if you’re hesitant. Another is commitment. You need a system that ensures you move forward toward your goal every day, however minutely.

The fourth step is companions, by which I mean network. This is about identifying what skills you don’t have and need, and developing a bespoke plan for adding to your network those who do. Finally, there’s contribution. We feel more fulfilled and happier when giving back, so I always ask clients what expertise, experience or time they can share with others who need help. Studies in the fields of neuroplasticity and neurogeneis show that our brain continually rewires itself and creates new neurons and neural connections throughout our life. There’s no reason to slow down, if you don’t want to. Focus on your health and mind and both will take care of you as you move into the next chapter of your life.

Cindy Galvin is the author of ‘More to Give-Stepping into your new life at any age’, published by Panoma Press in September 2018. The lessons she learned while changing her career, and the success she’s had working with other high achievers to do the same, are highlighted in her book. Cindy is an executive coach, advisor to private equity firms, public speaker, hypnotherapist and licensed Neuro-Linguistic Progamming™ Trainer. www.cindygalvin.com

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South Lee School #allhavetalent

OPEN MORNING Saturday 9th February 2019 BOOK YOUR 10am-12noon PLACE NOW

T: 01284 754654 E: office@southlee.co.uk | W: www.southlee.co.uk



We provide all children with a broad and balanced curriculum which focuses on the development of the whole child as an inquirer and learner.

Visit St. Michael’s on our open mornings: Friday, March 10.30am Friday, 2nd1stMarch 10.30am –– 12 12noon noon

&&Saturday, Saturday,3rd 2ndMarch March10.30a.m 10.30a.m––12.30 12.30p.m p.m 198 Hadleigh Road Leigh-on-Sea Essex SS9 2LP 01702 478719 admissions@stmichaelsschool.com www.stmichaelsschool.com

I N SP I R E n

A CHIEV E n

G R OW

Because children learn best where theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re happy Prep School & Nursery gosfieldschool.org.uk

Senior School & Sixth Form

registrar @ gosfieldschool.org.uk

Discover who

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

Come and visit us Thursday 7 March 2019, 4.30pm to 6.30pm Friday 8 March 2019, 9.30am to 12noon Or contact us to arrange a personal tour on a date to suit you.

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

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING (for pupils aged 3-18)

Saturday 23 March 2019 10:00 - 12.30 With dedicated bus routes across Norfolk, Cambs and Lincs, we’re closer than you think! Contact us: 01945 586750 admissions@wisbechgrammar.com

wisbechgrammar.com

ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL HARPENDEN

A non-denominational Christian day and boarding school

11-18 coeducational boarding at one of the UK's top performing non-selective schools for £4070 per term Only 30 minutes from St Pancras International Less than an hour by road from Heathrow, Stansted and Luton Herts AL5 4TD | boarding@stgeorges.herts.sch.uk | 01582 716284

www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk

School OPEN DAYS

Education

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 St Aubyn’s School Bunces Lane, Woodford, Woodford Green, IG8 9DU Tel: 020 8504 1577 Open days: 14 March,10am. The Headmaster will talk at 10.15am A co-educational, independent, preparatory school, with around 500 pupils aged between 3-13. www.staubyns.com St Mary’s School for Girls 91 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3RB Tel: 01206 572544 Open days: Kindergarten and Lower School, 7 February, 9 & 27 March, 25 April and 5 June, 9.30-11am; Senior School, 26 February, 10.30-12pm and 27 April, 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: Call to find out upcoming dates An independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3-18. www.brentwoodschool.co.uk Gosfield School Cut Hedge Park, Halstead Road, Gosfield, CO9 1PF Tel: 01787 474040 Open day: 9 March An independent, co-educational through school, delivering a consistent and supportive learning environment for children from 2-18 years old. www.gosfieldschool.org.uk St.Michael’s Church of England Preparatory School 198 Hadleigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 2LP Tel: 01702 478719 Open days: 1 March 10.30am – 12 noon & 2 March 10.30am – 12.30pm A a non-selective school for children aged 3-11 years. www.stmichaelsschool.com

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE Cambridge International School Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge, CB1 8DW Tel: 01223 416938 Open days: Spring dates to be announced soon The school provides an inspiring and exciting education for children aged 3-18. www.cambridgeinternationalschool.co.uk The Leys School Fen Causeway, Cambridge, CB2 7AD Tel: 01223 508900 Open days: 9 February and 27 April. A co-educational independent day and boarding school for children aged 11-18. www.theleys.net

NORFOLK Wymondham College Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 9SZ Tel: 01953 609000 Open days: Boarder taster evenings, 22 March & 14 June, 5.45-8.30pm; Main School open mornings, 23 March & 15 June, 9-11am; Sixth Form mini open mornings, 9 February and 29 June. 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: Information Evening 5 March, 5-7pm. 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: Contact the Registrar to arrange a viewing.

Cambridge Regional College Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge, CB4 2QT Tel: 01223 418200 Open days: Huntingdon Campus; 7 February, 2 May and 15 June. Cambridge Campus; 9 February, 3 April and 13 June. Highly-rated further education college with excellent fulltime and part-time courses, apprenticeships and Higher Education, and professional training for businesses. www.camre.ac.uk

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 278141 Open days: 2019 dates to be announced soon. Prep School open days are usually held on Friday mornings, and Senior School and Sixth Form events on Saturday mornings. An independent day and boarding school with a focus on strong academic progress, providing a breadth of experience and opportunity to develop character and help each child to discern their future. www.stokecollege.co.uk South Lee School Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 2BT Tel: 01284 754654 Open day: Call directly to meet the head and take a tour. Independent Day School & Nursery for boys and girls aged 2-13, offering a stimulating and caring environment for your child. www.southlee.co.uk

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HERTFORDSHIRE St Francis College Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3PJ Tel: 01462 670511 Open days: Call to book a tour of the school An all-girls school that provides an excellent education, focusing on nurturing the individual talents of its pupils, aged between 3-18 years old. www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk Kingshott School Stevenage Road, St Ippolyts, Hitchin, SG4 7JX Tel: 01462 432009 Open day: 3 May A co-education day prep school for children aged 3-13, providing tradition and innovation in teaching and learning. www.kingshottschool.com

Haileybury and Imperial Service College Hertford, SG13 7NU Tel: 01992 706200 Open days: 11+ & 13+ 16 March, 9.30am, 11+ 15 May, 9.30am and 16+ 20 June, 6pm A co-educational boarding and day school for ages 11-18. www.haileybury.com St Christopher School, Letchworth Barrington Road, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3JZ Tel: 01462 650850 Open day: 11 May, 9.30am-1pm. An independent school for girls and boys aged 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;18. www.stchris.co.uk

Duncombe School 4 Warren Park Road, Hertford, SG14 3JA Tel: 01992 414100 Open days: 31 January, 7 March and 2 May, 9.45am-11am. A private school with co-educational Preparatory and Pre-Preparatory Schools, for pupils aged 2-11 years. www.duncombe-school.co.uk

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WELCOME TO Camlet Way, Hadley Wood, Barnet, EN4 0NJ

A co-educational school for 11 to 18 year olds

where academic success is achieved along with excellent pastoral care

visit www.mounthouse.org.uk to book a place at our

Open Morning on 27 April 2019. Mount House School | Independent Boys & Girls Secondary School located in Monken Hadley

www.mounthouse.org.uk Tel: 020 8449 6889

INSPIRED TODAY, PREPARED FOR TOMORROW

OPEN MORNINGS: 1st February 2019 11th May 2019

CO-EDUCATIONAL BOARDING AND DAY 2Â½ TO 13 TO FIND OUT MORE PLEASE CONTACT OUR ADMISSIONS TEAM ON

admissions@orwellpark.org www.orwellpark.co.uk T: 01473 653224

Health & Safety Training Courses in Chelmsford Essex Train to be safe are a specialist training provider, offering excellent service at competitive prices. We are an accredited training centre, based in Chelmsford Essex. Our training instructors are experts in their subject matter offering a wealth of experience, bringing out the best in everyone.

Fire Marshal Training Courses

First Aid Training Courses

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Manual Handling Training Courses

This course is for people who want to learn about basic fire awareness for their role as a fire marshal in the workplace. It helps learners to understand how a fire may start and spread, and how to assess and manage these risks in their workplace

Whether you need first aid and health and safety training for work or want to learn first aid for your everyday life, Train to be Safe has a course for you. It helps delegates to learn first aid safety training for the workplace to protect colleagues, family, friends, and members of the community.

This course is designed for people who care for babies and children in any professional setting, including nannies, child-minders, nursery workers and au pairs.

Manual Handling training courses provide an effective means of ensuring that the student is aware of their responsibilities and understand the principles of the safe moving and load lifting. Manual handling accidents account for more than one third of all accidents reported each year.

TRAINING COURSE OPTIONS

Standalone Courses - Courses can be booked on an individual booking which will be accredited and contain practical, written assessments and certificate of completion. Bulk Courses - We can offer a bulk booking of courses over a period of time specified to you and tailor made to courses you require to offer. Bespoke Courses - We will work with you to identify the best approach to training delivery taking into consideration the outcomes you wish to receive. We will happily review the style of delivery and content to accommodate this. Workshops - If you do not require accreditation within training and wish to enhance skill set or provide update training we can tailor make our course delivery into workshop styles at a discounted price.

Telephone: 01245 206320 Email: info@traintobesafe.co.uk

www.traintobesafe.co.uk

56%

N O RW I C H H I G H SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

A*-A / 9-7

OPEN

GCSEs 2018

52%

WEEK

A*-A

A Levels 2018

M O N D AY 4 T H T O F R I D AY 8 T H MARCH 2019

Flexible mini-bus service now available across Norfolk

Limited places for girls aged 3 to 16 to join our outstanding Pre-Prep and Prep School, Senior School or Sixth Form in September 2019 Visit www.norwichhigh.gdst.net, email admissions@nor.gdst.net or call 01603 453 265 to book your personalised tour

@NorwichHigh

Passions don’t retire.

It’s time to throw yourself into the things you love - at Park House in quintessential Harpenden. Set around a leafy courtyard, the development offers a friendly, sociable collection of homes bordering popular Rothamsted Park. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the bustling kitchen-style restaurant on site, then catch up with friends at the Club House or dive into a book in one of the four lounges. Your retirement, your lifestyle.

PRICES start from £560,000

Exclusively for the over 60s

To experience Park House call Michael or Diana on 01582 228 118 PegasusLife.co.uk/ParkHouse 23a Leyton Road, Harpenden, St Albans, AL5 2LW Destinations Nationwide: London: Hampstead, Purley, Westminster North: Wilmslow East: Harpenden, Sevenoaks West: Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham, Portishead, Tetbury South: Brockenhurst, Falmouth, Poole, Seaford, Woking Prices published correct at time of print.

Properties of character

COMING SOON - Doglife 2019 Your essential guide to the dog friendly services of the East of England.

• Dog friendly hotels, cottages, campsites • Where to eat and drink • Shopping for and with your pooch • Dog friendly events/ dog shows • Dog friendly walks/ beaches Email enquiries@eastlife.co.uk to advertise or to pre-order your copy!

DogLife

eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly/

Tails about town

Dog friendly

Written by Emma Kemsley

Doggy First Aid I

t’s official, I’m a crazy dog lady. Last month my friend and I attended a day course at the Royal Veterinary College in Camden to learn the skills to help save our pups lives. After last winter’s cut paw dramas I wasn’t taking any chances so I spent my Saturday being taught how to wrap bandages, treat traumas and look for signs that Fletcher may be feeling under the weather.

We also learnt which foods are highly toxic and what we should do if they are consumed. My friend’s dog, Juno, had pretty much eaten everything on the list so she was well equipped to know it ends in a pretty big vet bill! We also practiced giving CPR on a toy dog - close the mouth and breathe into the dog’s nose. I would have covered the mouth so at least that’s saved me a gross encounter. The first aid training got me thinking, it’s all well and good that I’m spending my time and money to help Fletcher but what about me? Over the years I have sustained countless injuries caused by Fletcher. There was the time he got over excited about seeing another dog, wrapped the extender lead cord around my legs and pulled hard. It resulted in a bleeding rope burn across the back of my left leg – I have a permanent scar! I have grazed my entire hand because he was too impatient for me to put on my wellies and dragged me across the stony driveway. I’ve bruised my coccyx on multiple occasions after slipping over on icy walks. I’ve twisted ankles in many rabbit holes. I get muddy sticks bashed into my legs at lightning speed on a daily basis. I’ve caught fingers in doors and lead catches. I’ve had splinters trying to get sticks from him. I’ve trod on endless sharp bones. And have you ever accidently butted heads with a dog? Trust me, their skulls are hard enough to make you see stars! There was also the occasion he went on a deer chase, causing my husband to trip over in a forest and badly sprain an ankle – it was an ice pack and foot up kind of scenario. While he hobbled through the forest in the pouring rain, I frantically ran around crying thinking we’d lost Fletcher forever.

Add to all this the general embarrassment and stress he causes unknowingly thanks to his cheeky cocker character and I’m starting to think it’s me that needs saving! However, would I have it any other way? Absolutely not! Read more Tails About Town at

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Fitness with Fido Written by

Karen Rhodes

tart the New Year with a new regime that will benefit you and your dog.

If like many of us, your New Year’s resolution is to get fit, what better way to work off the excesses from Christmas with the help of your furry four-legged friend?

Increase your walking time Most of us own a fitness tracker or have an app that tracks our steps. The easiest way to get fit with Fido is to simply walk further. Set yourself a challenge and increase the distance you walk each day and smash your targets.

Agility This fun fast paced activity will not only exercise your dog physically but mentally too. Learning the obstacles and the techniques is a great way to spend an hour on a weekend; you’ll get a great workout too running around with your dog as you both take part.

You’ll get amazing abs and arm workout and your dog will enjoy something different. Make sure you both wear life jackets though.

Heelwork to music Why not try something slightly less energetic for the owner but still super fun. Teach your dog to dance and do heelwork to music at one of the many classes on offer in the region. Not only will you be working out your mind learning the choreography but your dog’s mind too.

Obstacle course challenge For the super competitive, sign up for an obstacle course challenge. Designed specifically for dogs and their owners, challenge your abilities and teamwork as you take on various obstacles at each station. More activities that you can do with your dog can be found on the Kennel Club website at www.thekennelclub.org.uk/activities

Running Running is a fantastic way to exercise your dog and it’s free! You can build up from walking to running short distances, and gradually increasing the length of time you can run for. You’ll soon be fit enough to run all the way with your dog.

Kayaking or stand up paddle boarding Let your dog relax while you do all the work. Take your dog kayaking or for a ride on a stand up paddle board.

As chosen by Dragons Den Star and entrepreneur Theo Paphitis, Karen Rhodes is the owner of awardwinning Suffolk Dog Services. She provides rural adventure walks specialising in high energy working dog breeds. Taking them away from their usual surroundings and treating them to amazing experiences. www.suffolkdogservices.co.uk | Facebook: /suffolkdogservices

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Little East

Written by Dolly Osborne

A Hopeful New Year

’m not usually a fan of New Year, as any readers of my column might know, but I will be seeing 2019 in with an unusual amount of gusto.

You see, 2018 has been the Osborne family’s annus horribilis; we’ve had to deal with a lot this year, the crux of which has been having to watch my 10-year-old boy suffer and in the most part being unable to fix it. I thought I’d been through everything that motherhood had to throw at me, with two teenage stepdaughters and a boisterous 10-year-old, I kind of thought by now I had a gentle run-in to the years of grandparenthood in 15 or 20 years’ time. I felt entirely unequipped when faced with my boy having a pain that I couldn’t just take away. I’m an ex nurse, an intolerable empath, a Taurean and so am programmed to need to fix things, to fix people, to take problems away. I think many of us as parents see that as our role: to keep our child safe from harm and to fix any harm that does befall them. To be faced with something that we can’t take away, that we can’t fix makes us feel redundant. I’ve spent lots of the last 12 months battling with that frustration, feeling that I had failed at motherhood by

allowing something I couldn’t control to hurt my child but then I realised I was wasting energy by obsessing over what I couldn’t do when I could spend time thinking about the ways I could help. As parents we do want to keep our children safe but we also need to accept that if we can’t do that then it falls to us to take on a different role; we need to build our children up, give them tools to cope with the big bad world. We have a responsibility to teach our children how to recognise anxieties, how to process pain and sadness, how important it is to talk to the people we love about fears and feelings and how even if a battle is theirs to endure that they must never feel that they have to fight it alone. I am welcoming in the New Year as it brings me hope, not only that our current crisis will pass but also that I still have many new things to learn about motherhood, that I will continue to learn these lessons and to help future generations to be equipped to deal with whatever the years to come may bring. Read more from Dolly at www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus

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Food Drink news

Shake, Sprinkle and Snack Your Way to Good Health If you’re on a health kick this month, it’s now easier than ever to pep up your soups, salads or breakfast with a sprinkle of Munchy Seeds. Created in Leiston, Suffolk, the seeds are 100% natural, gluten free and bursting with protein and fibre, making Munchy Seeds a fantastic source of energy, nutrients

Food & Drink

and vitamins to help keep you fighting fit throughout the winter. Munchy Seeds are available in three flavours; spicy Chilli Bites, savoury Omega Sprinkles or sweet Honey Seeds, all available at Tesco and Sainsbury’s stores nationwide, priced £2.50.

Atalian Servest opens its ﬁrst pub in Lavenham Last month, Atalian Servest opened the doors to the Cock Horse, on Church Street in Lavenham, its first pub in the area. The company, whose head office is in Bury St Edmunds, has established a global reputation across a number of sectors including catering and has bought its experience to the Cock Horse following a renovation and new guest chefs supporting head chef Chris Ince. Daniel Dickson, CEO of Atalian Servest, said: “We want the Cock Horse to become known for good homemade food, with new healthy alternatives, combining both quality and affordability.” www.thecockhorseinn.co.uk

Oakman Inns nominated for Four National Awards Independent pub group, Oakman Inns, the owners of five popular family-friendly pubs in Hertfordshire (Kings Arms, Berkhamsted, Banyers House, Royston, Beech House, St Albans, Red Lion, Water End and The Akeman, Tring) has been nominated for four awards at the Publican Awards, the largest celebration of the UK pub industry’s work. Oakman Inns has been nominated for: The Best Managed Pub Company (2-50 sites), The Pub Employer (501+ employees), The Best Sustainable Pub Company Award and The Best New Pub/Bar category for The Royal Foresters in Ascot, Berkshire. Oakman Inns was the first multiple site pub group to ban plastic straws over two years ago, and last year committed to cutting Single Use Plastics throughout its business by 2019. The ceremony will take place in March 2019 at Battersea Evolution in London. www.oakmaninns.co.uk

Gin Tasting in Cambridge If the idea of a dry January is a distant memory, book yourself a place at Cambridgeshire Wine School’s first gin tasting of the year. Taking place on 24 January, 7-9pm, you’ll try six different gins with Fever Tree tonic and learn all about the best garnishes to choose. It’s a fun evening for any gin lover! Tickets are priced £30. www.cambridgeshirewineschool.com

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

From Gin to muscle food - bugs are the new hot thing!

ne of the most fun parts of my work is finding new and exciting food and drink and sampling it. This not only involves looking out for new places opening in Cambridge but food trends too as I am keen to share the latest food and drink with our guests on our food tours. One of these ‘new’ foods has now finally arrived in Cambridge. This superfood is tasty, nutritious, sustainable and packed with protein. I have been talking about these creepy crawlies on our food walking tours for quite a few years. And the reason for this is? The Anty Gin, a joint venture between the experimental Copenhagen-based Nordic Food Lab and the Cambridge Distillery. One of the essential ingredients of the Anty Gin is Formica rufa, a redwood ant found in forests around the Northern Hemisphere and also in Kent. Supported by other botanicals this Gin has a lemony flavour. Apparently, depending on which part of the world you are in, the formic acid of woodland ants taste has a lemon or orange flavour. No, I haven’t been going around the globe trying out all these ants! You’ll be amazed how many of our guests have eaten insects. Either part of their military training, culture or out of curiosity. Many people are horrified by the thought of eating edible bugs. We all can agree, that quite a few of them

look pretty scary. But what about prawns? They are very popular and look just as creepy as edible bugs. Did you know that the pink prawns from Asia were only introduced into our Western society in the 70s so that is not that long ago and these are considered to be a delicacy? In some countries in South America it is more common to eat insects than meat and they consider us to be odd. To be fair, it is just what you are used to. I have always wondered how long it would take before edible bugs were going to be sold in Cambridge. The time has arrived! The other day I attended a Japanese insect and wine tasting at the Cambridge Wine Merchants. Everybody thought that they were very tasty, but the silk moth did not get the best votes. It certainly has an acquired flavour, a bit musty. Like Marmite; you either love it or hate it. At the time of writing this article, Sainsbury’s announced they will start selling edible bugs in their stores. I wonder how many more will follow. Many people are looking at alternatives for meat and fish so will the choice be plant-based or this protein-packed alternative instead? Anty Gin - Cambridge Distillery www.cambridgedistillery.co.uk Cambridge Wine Merchants www.cambridgewine.com Grub Kitchen (not local – this one is in Pembrokeshire) www.grubkitchen.co.uk

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horter days, cold temperatures and the hectic festive season can sometimes feel overwhelming, stressful and less than cheery! Located in Ampthill, akarmalife studios’ resident Counsellor, Julie Anne Game, shares her top 5 tips to stay on top of the season.

1. Make some ‘Me-Time’ We find ourselves saying, ‘I would love to do that.... but I just don’t have time’. The key to lowering your stress levels, is to make time. And that might mean saying no and prioritising your commitments. Taking time out to do something you enjoy can lead to a greater sense of wellbeing. If you feel good, you spend less time resenting the feeling of ‘you don’t have time’ and spend more time enjoying the moment! Increased wellbeing can improve our productivity too, making the ‘me-time’ more achievable.

2. Mindfulness and Meditation Have you tried mindfulness meditation? I could never imagine myself meditating... until I tried it. I found that just practising for 10 minutes a day significantly improved my mood, stress levels and ability to live in the moment. With a lot of backing research, mindfulness and meditation are now even recognised by the NHS as being an effective way of improving your mental wellbeing.

3. Walking in the woods

4. The power of touch We humans are a social bunch, dependant on each other for survival. It’s no wonder then that we’ve developed to respond positively to the physical touch of people we are close to. Hugging a friend or family member releases oxytocin, the ‘feel-good’ hormone that lowers heart rate and cortisol. It’s also the hormone that bonds a new baby and mother. And you can benefit from this by having a massage too, which is shown in research to increase oxytocin and lower stress levels.

Top 5 Tips for De-Stressing this Season

The benefits of walking in the woods are worth braving the cold. Research found that being out in the woods has a powerful effect on our wellbeing. It is particularly beneficial for reducing stress as it lowers the stress hormone, cortisol. The Japanese practice of ‘forestbathing’, spending time in the forest being mindful of your surroundings, is gaining popularity in the UK. It’s an activity you can enjoy with the kids, friends or your canine companion. Ampthill has several woods close by that I regularly visit for my dose of serenity when life gets hectic.

5. Counselling I am a massive advocate for counselling and the impact it can have on reducing stress. Counselling helps identify the main triggers for stress and helps you find a way of rebalancing your life, in a way that brings fulfilment, instead of feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Instead of reverting to potentially harmful coping mechanisms like excessive alcohol consumption or over-eating, counselling helps identify positive coping mechanisms that fit with your life. Julie offers one on one counselling at akarmalife studios in Ampthill. To find out more about how counselling could work for you visit www.julieannegamecounselling.com.

Vegan Food on the GO! W

hether you’re a committed vegan, taking part in Veganuary or perhaps fancy trying something new, it’s never been easier to enjoy vegan food on the go. When hunger calls make a pit stop at one of these vegan food trucks which are parking up in a town near you…

Namaste Hut Where: Enterprise Centre, Norwich, NR4 7TL A little piece of India has landed in Norwich! Last year Namaste Hut opened at the Enterprise Centre on the University of East Anglia (UEA) campus. Stop by and try delicious vegetarian, vegan and gluten free curries and other Indian dishes. Trust us, you’ll never eat a meat curry again once you’ve sampled this! www.namastehutcafe.com

TFI Vegan

The Wandering Yak Where: Cambridge foodPark; Uni West Cam, Science Park and Rail Station A favourite on Cambridge’s street food scene, taking inspiration and flavours from the Middle East, here vegan food has never tasted so good! Try their famous mix & match Mezze Box, MiddleEastern pittas or Yak Salad Box. www.wanderingyak.co.uk

Where: Colchester, Ipswich & Leiston – plus other locations throughout the year From the owners of vegan café, The Den at 23 in Colchester, comes TFI Vegan. Using ‘old rusty’ the burger van, the company pops up at Essex and Suffolk markets to serve mouth-watering vegan burgers. You won’t find a burger better than this! www.facebook.com/tﬁvegan

Vette’s Veggie Van Where: Norwich The family run business specialises in vegan, veggie and gluten free food, serving up tasty burgers, patties, curries and brownies at Norfolk events throughout the year. www.vettesveggievan.co.uk

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Time to get Cosy I

s there anything better than wrapping up warm and going for a long walk before snuggling up in front of the fire at a cosy pub? Throw in some tasty food and it sounds like a perfect Sunday afternoon to us. If you find yourself out and about this month and in need of somewhere to escape the cold, put one of these pubs on your list to visit…

Suffolk

Norfolk

The Unruly Pig Orford Road, Bromeswell, Woodbridge, IP12 2PU If refuelling after a long walk is what you require, book a table at this stylish country pub just outside Woodbridge. The 16th century inn features log burners, oak beams and an impressive menu! There’s certainly no shortage of nearby walks, the pub is located a short distance from the River Deben in Woodbridge, Rendlesham Forest and Sutton Hoo. www.theunrulypig.co.uk

The Gunton Arms Cromer Road, Thorpe Market, Norwich, NR11 8TZ Take a brisk walk along Cromer beach then hop in the car and make your way down the winding country roads to The Gunton Arms. Perhaps one of Norfolk’s most famous establishments, its deer park location, quirky art, roaring fires and locally sourced food cooked on an open fire in the Elk Room, makes this a popular choice for residents and tourists alike. www.theguntonarms.co.uk The Wiveton Bell Blakeney Road, Holt, NR25 7TL The pub boasts several awards for its food including the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs awards, so you are sure to enjoy a fantastic meal. Pop in after a bracing walk along the salt marshes of North Norfolk, which has been listed as a site of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Bring along your four-legged friends too to warm up in this cosy traditional style pub. Have a little too much wine? Don’t worry, this pub also comes with stunning accommodation, making an overnight stay a real delight. www.wivetonbell.co.uk

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The Ferry Boat Inn The Ferry, Felixstowe, IP11 9RZ Following a walk along the coast or through the local countryside, warm up at the cosy bar, relax by the roaring fire and enjoy food and drink in this beautiful old fashioned pub. www.ferryboatinn.org.uk

Cambridgeshire The Crown Inn 8 Duck Street, Elton, Peterborough, PE8 6RQ Set in a beautiful idyllic Wolds village, settle into ‘the snug’ by the big log fire on a wintery night and tuck into delicious homemade food. It’s a dog friendly bar, so your four-legged friends are welcome to join you to warm up after a walk in the countryside. www.thecrowninn.org

The Boot 1 High Street, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9LG Last year the pub was taken over by celebrity chef Raymond Blanc’s, The White Brasserie Company, and given a new lease of life with country style décor. It’s perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds and traffic of the city. Here you can get comfy in one of the many cosy corners with a drink or tuck into a delicious meal – you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the creativity of the menu. www.boothiston.com

Essex The Crown & Thistle High Street, Great Chesterford, Saffron Walden, CB10 1PL A favourite with locals and visitors, The Crown & Thistle is a traditional country pub with a stylish touch. Gather around the bar for a drink, where dogs are also welcome, or book yourself a table in the restaurant for a tasty Thai feast. www.thecrownandthistle.pub The Square and Compasses Fuller Street, Fairstead, Chelmsford, CM3 2BB Enjoy a taste of the 17th century in this traditional country pub. With a rustic interior, enjoy a lovely locally sourced meal in an old-worldly setting. www.thesquareandcompasses.co.uk

The Boot, Histon

Hertfordshire The Cowper Arms 57 Cole Green Lane, Hertford, SG14 2NL The pub has recently undergone a makeover. Surrounded by beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, spend the morning walking along the nearby footpaths, before returning for lunch. The bar area is cosy, there’s seating near the open fire place and the food is delicious. They welcome dogs too, and even have their own doggy biscuit bar! www.thecowperarmscolegreen.co.uk The Alford Arms Frithsden, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3DD The pub is nestled in the wooded valley of the Ashridge Forest Estate, so a perfect stop after a long fresh winter walk…especially with their policy of dogs, children and muddy boots welcome. Antique artwork, wooden tables and chairs decorate the pub and an open fire warms the cockles on a cold day. www.alfordarmsfrithsden.co.uk

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Movement and Mind for Modern Living

A dedicated practice and therapy space in the heart of historic Ampthill. Open seven days a week.

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NEW YEAR New You:

HOW TO MAINTAIN THAT HEALTH KICK

Written by Tessa Beecroft

he New Year is a particularly busy time for the fitness industry. People feel inspired to make some healthier changes and what better time to start, than when you’re making those New Year resolutions. However, how many of you have made that resolution this year, but also the year before and the year before that….? Although the intention may be there, the motivation to make those changes may fade quickly. So how do you maintain the health kick? Be prepared for the long-ride The first and most important thing to do is to set aside the notion that you will become a healthier person overnight. The media will be filled with crash diets, 12-week, 6-week or even 4-week exercise plans and no end of herbs, supplements or potions that claim to help you lose weight and get healthier. Don’t get caught up in the hype. The first key step towards success, is understanding that you will be committing to a journey. You will need to be prepared to invest time (and perhaps also money in some circumstances), to make truly sustainable changes to your lifestyle. I sometimes ask my clients who want to make a change: “how long have you felt that way?” or “how long have you wanted to make those changes for?” The answer is usually months or years. If it has taken that long to create those unhealthy lifestyle habits, why do we expect it will only take weeks to create new ones? If you want to make your resolution stick, then don’t buy into short-term fixes.

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Health

Goal-setting So, you’ve made your New Year’s resolution, you’re prepared to start the journey but now what? What’s the next step? Get some clear goals in your mind around what it is you want to achieve and make it specific. It’s not enough just to say you want to be healthier. If you don’t know what you want to achieve, how can you work towards it? Do you want to lose weight, if so, how much? Do you want to improve your fitness, then in what sense – cardio, strength or stamina? Maybe you’ll even stop smoking. Do you want to improve your diet? Will you do that by reducing your alcohol or sugar consumption? Be clear on what it is you want to achieve, so it will give you focus and something measurable to work towards.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and think outside the box Now your goal is set, consider your options for achieving that. Are you confident that you will achieve those goals on your own or do you need professional advice and guidance? This is where some people will fail to maintain their resolution. You may be motivated at the start of the year but as that motivation starts to fade, do you have the drive to keep going or will you need someone to give you that extra push? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. That might be in the form of a personal trainer, dietician, therapist or health professional. Don’t feel pressured into thinking you have to do things on your own. It’s our job to provide advice and guidance, so why not take advantage of that? Additionally, joining the gym isn’t your only option to get fit and healthy. There are freelance personal trainers, fitness classes, community groups, parkruns, sports clubs, workshops and more...think outside the box!

Be prepared for challenges Working towards a healthy lifestyle is not going to be easy. If you really want to make those healthy habits long-term, it requires effort and more often than not there will be hiccups along the way. I haven’t worked with a client yet, who hasn’t encountered an occasional speed bump. So don’t be harsh on yourself if you do reach a challenge. The worst thing you can do is self-criticise. Take the opportunity to reflect. Once you’ve given some time to understand what may have caused that hiccup, think about what you will do to keep working towards your goal. Don’t give up at that first hurdle.

Wellbeing Finally, bear in mind that being healthy doesn’t just mean being physically fit, eating well, drinking less or stopping smoking. It also includes healthy mental wellbeing. Losing weight may help you with your self-confidence or improve your self-esteem but don’t ignore other reasons which may be causing you to feel that way. It’s important to take time to work on our mental wellbeing, just as much as our physical health. You may work extremely hard to achieve a physical target but if you are still experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression at the end of it, have you really achieved your overall goal? If you would like further advice or want to learn more about the healthy lifestyle coaching and personal training services I offer, please contact me at tbeecroft.fitpro@hotmail.com www.personaltrainer-norfolk.co.uk Facebook @tessafitpro Instagram @tessa_fitpro

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Your Holiday, Your Way. A trip to Malta, a cruise to the Northern Lights, a lifelong wish to visit Rome, wanting to feel the sun in the Canary Islands and a trip to Las Vegas with friends. Typical holiday destinations for many people but for five people these were holidays that once upon a time, they felt they would be unable to give thought to as the practical restraints would prevent them travelling to such faraway places. A young person with a disability, a gentleman in midlife with a health problem and three older people were supported, enabling them to take these desired trips because they had with them one of our Holiday Care Companions. Supported from the time they left their home and returned safely after their chosen holiday had ended.

Taking the opportunity to be accompanied on a holiday means that other places can be accessed, other dreams fulfilled. As a result, second and third holidays have been booked for later this year and in 2019. Other people have chosen other destinations both in the UK and internationally.

Able Community Care Supporting people at home and away since 1980

www.ablecommunitycare.com info@ablecommunitycare.com

A new you, a new life! Let’s talk weight loss surgery. Losing weight is an individual challenge different for every person. Because no two bodies are alike, no two people receive the same treatment from our team of experts. Instead, they work closely with you to develop a plan tailored to your health and weight loss needs. We are here to answer any questions you have about weight loss surgery. We listen to you and guide you through every part of the treatment.

Thursday 17th January, 6.30pm With Mr Sanjay Agrawal, Consultant General Surgeon, (specialising in Bariatric Surgery). Considering an operation is a big decision. It often seems like a giant step. However, one step could lead to a better quality of life for you and your family. Come and meet our expert at this FREE event. You will have the opportunity to get your questions answered.

It is together that we will help you lose weight. Book online today at www.nufﬁeldhealth.com/hospitals/brentwood/events or call 01277 886 706

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07/12/2018 11:16

DIY Doctor Written by Mike Garside

truggling to get an appointment with your GP? Why not try a home test? Mike Garside, medical director at Valuemed, a medical supply company, shares his knowledge of self test kits…

to ask what year, these home test kits may offer an affordable, and convenient first screening option, that will either put your mind at ease, or arm you with the “yes it is an emergency” ammunition to get you past the dragon’s school of doctor’s receptionist blocking tactics.

It’s amazing what you can buy on the internet these days, but despite Google’s, Amazon’s and Ebay’s best efforts to provide a myriad of shopping opportunities and options to all and everyone looking, if you don’t ask the right questions, chances are you won’t know most of the possibilities on offer to you in the UK.

Now doctors have traditionally been terribly defensive about patients testing themselves. This is partly protective and partly pompous. Most also hate you Googling your own symptoms and would gladly see the internet go down for long periods, that is when they are not, “just nipping out to consult a colleague”, which is code for Googling your symptoms on their mobile out of sight. I’m old enough to remember the professional concern about the first home pregnancy tests. Could ladies withstand the emotional stress and excitement of peeing on the right end of the test kit, and then interpreting the

Now before you all get uppity, no one is suggesting these replace the good old NHS services we all love and cherish, just that when you’re told the next routine appointment is sometime past Easter, and you have

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inflammatory bowel conditions such as Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease. Healthy guts should not leak blood, so a positive result is always an indication for further investigation. This simple test on a stool sample is used widely where colonoscopy is not available or offered. Priced £4.75.

H Pylori Antigen Screening result? Would they trust the result? Would their heads simply explode from the immense responsibility? It was all complete rubbish of course (unless you’re French, they’re still not trusted to buy one without counselling from a pharmacist). So let’s talk specifically about the recent developments in what is officially called “point of care” biotechnology. To you and me that’s posh for self-test kits and it’s amazing what is on offer to do in your own home these days. Oh, and before you go “but they’re not as accurate as the proper tests”, here’s the rub, we’re selling an awful lot of them in big packs to NHS labs where they put your samples in for you, and generate a result, print it or ping it, back to your doctor…(sometime after Easter if you’ve manoeuvred that receptionist!).

Cholesterol Screening Increasingly total cholesterol is used for assessing risk for coronary artery disease (include here heart attack, stroke and vascular disease). There’s a meter for this. It’s just like a diabetic glucose meter, in fact it also has this function, and takes 3 types of blood test strips including total cholesterol. The meter costs around £40 and comes with a few sample test strips. You have to perform finger pricks to get small blood samples for each test strip, but it allows you to monitor the fasting total cholesterol over a period of time for a cost of around £1.60 per test.

Uric Acid Screening (Gout) The same meter takes uric acid test strips and allows screening for uric acid levels associated with gout. £0.75 per test. Find out more about cholesterol, and gout meters at www.valuemed.co.uk/collections/cholesterolhaemoglobin-uric-acid-meters

Chronic indigestion, reflux and upper GI symptoms may be treated better if H Pylori infection is identified. This one’s a little controversial as H Pylori exists in a lot of apparently healthy stomachs, but it’s also found in an awful lot of ulcers, so currently the thinking is to screen and eradicate if symptomatic. This test works on stool samples and only identifies cell wall protein excreted from currently active bugs (older tests detect antibodies, which linger for years after eradication). Priced £6.99.

Thyroid TSH Screening Underactive thyroid leads to a range of insidious onset symptoms, none of which are diagnostic, so screening for elevated TSH which is pumped out by the pituitary glad to get the thyroid working can help exclude or direct physicians and patients concerned about thyroid function. Finger prick home test priced £4.99.

Ferritin Iron Screening Ferritin is an indicator of Iron levels in the body, low ferritin levels are associated with anaemia, chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, hair loss, brittle nails. A finger prick home test is £4.96. And that’s just a few currently on the market and available now. By the time this goes to print we will have the latest HbA1C instant test for elevated glycosated haemoglobin. If you’re diabetic you will know all about this one. If you’re one of the millions predicted to be at risk of diabetes in the UK it offers an instant screening test for diabetes and pre-diabetes for the first time without the laboratory delay or hospital visits for glucose tolerance tests.

FOB Faecal Occult Blood Screening (FOB for short)

By Easter 2019 who knows what else will be included in the ranges available. If you’re lucky enough to get that last appointment with your GP, perhaps you could Google it together?

Microscopic blood loss into the gut is used as a market for a range of bowel diseases, notably polyps and tumours, but the marker is non-specific and also occurs on

Visit www.valuemed.co.uk to see the full range of home test kits available.

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When Muriel became forgetful her daughter arranged live-in care with Purely Care. A 24 hour carer has allowed Muriel to retain her independence and remain safe. Muriel can still decide where she goes and when, the carer helps her choose an outfit and makes sure she gets to her appointments on time and finds her way back home safely. Muriel loves having someone to chat to and remind her when to put the TV on to watch her favourite programmes.

Tel 01603 407707 www.purelycare.co.uk

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Everyone is inspired At Clayburn Court care home, we embrace wellness. We support each of our residents as individuals, with their own rich history, skills and abilities and likes and dislikes. Our home is our community and it is your life-story, combined with our unique expertise in caring for older people, that ensure our residents can express themselves, maintain their identity and dignity and live a full and meaningful life. Pr�u�� -f��-�r�ﬁ�. Clayburn Court care home Clayburn Road, Peterborough, PE7 8LB If you’d like to ﬁnd out more about the choices Anchor care homes offer our residents call 0808 102 5205 or visit ClayburnCourt.co.uk Rated Sept 2017

Good

Loving Care T

he New Year is the perfect time for change. If a relative or loved one is having difficulty caring for themselves independently, why not make 2019 the year you help them? The East of England is home to a huge range of quality care and retirement homes. Some offer full time medical care and every day assistance, while others can offer the peace of mind that a relative is living in a like-minded community with safety measures in place in case of emergencies. Most come with a superb chef, hairdressers and an impressive social scene. The search for the right option can take some time but research is key in finding the correct care or retirement home for your needs.

Care homes

Chef of the Year competition, which was judged by Michelin star chef Tom Shepherd. Clayburn Court takes pride in the range of high quality, seasonally focused and nutritionally balanced meals available to residents on a daily basis. The catering team make an effort to get out of the kitchen and speak to the people they cook for every day, finding out about personal preferences and dishes that they particularly enjoy.

In Hertfordshire, the purpose built Bentley House run by Signature Senior Lifestyle offers exceptional accommodation at an affordable price. While Snowdrop House in Ware prides itself on its round the clock care and five star facilities including entertainment.

Anchor was named ‘Residential Care Provider of the Year’ at the prestigious Health Investor Awards and celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2018. It is England’s largest not-forprofit provider of care and housing for older people, which enables reinvestment in its properties and homes.

In Cambridgeshire, Clayburn Court care home is purpose-built and designed to provide the highest standards of residential and residential dementia care. It is operated by Anchor and set in the heart of the community. The residents have recently enjoyed a range of celebrations throughout the festive period and the home welcomes any local older people to join the activities offering the opportunity to enjoy some company and conversation when the weather is cold and days are shorter.

Retirement Villages

Doors are also open to anyone who wishes to volunteer or any local organisations who would like to work with the residents and staff. The home includes a number of facilities, such as a hair salon, coffee shop area and a number of quiet lounges. Residents can expect top quality food from Head Chef, Rob Devonshire, who recently won Anchor’s prestigious

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Due to the demand of affordable housing, retirement villages are popping up in towns and villages across the region, providing stylish and safe accommodation for over 55s. Generally offering one or two bed homes and on-site facilities such as a restaurant and communal area, it’s the perfect option for those looking to downsize or perhaps those who need extra security and support. Debden Grange in Newport, near Saffron Walden is one of the latest developments to open in Essex. Part of Retirement Villages portfolio, the initial phase of building will deliver seven, two-bedroom cottages accessed from Whiteditch Lane, which will be completed by late spring 2019. Each of the brick-built Beaufort cottages in the initial build phase comprises a spacious hallway with open plan sitting/dining area. There is a modern fitted kitchen with integrated appliances and double bedroom with fitted

Rob Devonshire, chef at Clayburn Court

wardrobe. Upstairs, the dormer landing leads through to the master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and two built-in wardrobes, as well as ground floor shower room. A further 10 cottages will follow in the next phase, alongside 64 one and two bedroom apartments, offering a wide range of styles and layouts to choose from. Residents will be able to enjoy a clubhouse incorporating a relaxing lounge, restaurant, bar, library, meeting rooms, hairdresser, shop, and a large external terraced area. A care home will also be built on site and a range of care services will be available should they be required. For those interested a marketing suite with a 3D village model is now open on Rose and Crown Walk in Saffron Walden. Later this year, Bedford in Bedfordshire will welcome Wixams Retirement Village, which will offer 230 one and two bedroom apartments for sale, shared ownership or rental for over 55s. Conveniently located near the town centre, the development will boast a host health and leisure facilities including up to 50 activities on offer

Above; Debden Grange in Newport

per week including art classes, Tai-chi, yoga, computer classes and gardening, some sessions run by residents through a range of enriching volunteer opportunities. Run by ExtraCare, it aims to care for residents but help them stay independent. A well-being and specialist dementia service will also be located within the village centre. As new retirement developments come to market and homes across the region continue to offer excellent levels of care, research and visits will help you make the right decision. Keep an eye out for National Care Home Open Day on 28 June.

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Get ahead with a

Hat

Fashion

Written by Ruth Essex

accessorize | uk.accessorize.com

rosty mornings mean it is time to consider adding a hat to your list of stylish essentials, but how do you begin choosing one? I get clients to quickly glance at themselves in the mirror. Look up, then look away, then tell me what they notice is most dominant. Bright eyes? Soft muted features? Hair colour? Skin tone? Your dominant feature is a great guide to choosing the best hat to flatter yourself. Select a hat that echoes something about your features; be that your hair colour, skin or eyes. If you have very dark hair, a black felt hat will mirror this, and by adding dark glasses, it amplifies the effect. Furry hats tend to work well on those who have soft muted colouring, where the distinction between the hair, skin and eyes is soft rather than sharp. Smokey greys and soft camels are good choices. Look at the colour of your eyes too. Brown eyes are amplified by choosing a hat of the same depth of brown, be that a deep rich chocolate or a mid-range chestnut. Hazel eyes and green eyes are complimented by green hats. If your eyes are blue, choose a corresponding blue shade and notice how prominent it makes your eyes. Those with blonde or white hair look good with paler Hat, Primark, ÂŁ3

colours such as the pastels. Hair would be your dominant feature if it is long; as it is the first thing you are likely to notice about someone. An animal print hat is a pattern that works very well for those with multi-tonal hair, particularly in the light brown to caramel tones. Chose a warm tone to compliment your skin if you have golden highlights. If your hair is more ash blonde or grey, with silver highlights, go for a cool animal print instead. You can amp up your head turning ability with a red lipstick or tone it down by choosing a neutral colour hat. The choice is yours. A hat can add style to any winter outfit so spend a little time choosing the right one so you can be confident knowing it looks and feels great on you. Ruth Essex, - Stylist & Image Consultant ruthcrofts@btinternet.com - Tel: 07900 910 666

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Even more to explore. East Terrace Now Open. With big brand fashion and delicious lakeside dining, all in the great outdoors, Rushden Lakes now has even more to offer.

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20/12/2018 11:32

SHOP W

ho can resist the lure of a January sale? Everything you’ve had your eye on in the run up to Christmas is suddenly a fraction of the price. With social media now influencing consumerism more than ever before, it feels as though sales and discount codes are available everywhere, but how can you tell if you’re really bagging a bargain? With this in mind, we’ve put together five simple tips to help you become the smartest of sale shoppers:

How to be savvy sale shopper

Where to start Before you head into the crowds it’s vital to have a clear idea of what you need. It can be tempting to indulge, but neither your wardrobe or your bank balance will thank you for it. Though the glitzy party dress you wanted is now only £20, will you really wear it next December? Pre-sale online research and making a list of key items will stop you wasting your pennies.

Quality over quantity Towards the end of last year, thanks to Stacey Dooley’s BBC documentary ‘Fashion’s Dirty Secrets’, there was a shift in buying habits. The programme showed the shocking environmental impact caused by fashion, and as a result influencers and bloggers started to share the importance of sustainability in fashion with their followers. However, sustainable fabrics come with a higher price tag for obvious reasons, but the sales are a great time to snap up a bargain. When shopping, check the fabric of the items of clothing. Organic cotton, hemp, linen, wool and cashmere usually cost more so are worth buying in the sale – you’ll be helping the environment and buying pieces with longevity saving you money in the long run!

Be prepared Changing rooms are hell on earth during the sale season. Long queues and tropical temperature cubicles are enough to make you throw in the towel. Avoid having to try clothes on by wearing a thin outfit under your coat so you can simply slip items over the top and make use of the store full-length mirrors. It will save you buying an item that doesn’t fit, that you’ll never get around to taking back.

Think bigger Yes the sales are great for picking up clothing and home furnishings, but those who save the most are those that think bigger than material items. We all know January is rather depressing, so why not escape your blues with a holiday. Flights from the UK are far less packed with holidaymakers and business travellers in the first weeks of January. Depending on the destination and whether it’s low or peak season, with some time, effort and research you may be able to find some cheap flights to put a smile on your face.

Bargains on Bargains If you’re in need of a wardrobe update head to one of the region’s outlet shopping destinations. Dotted throughout the East are the likes of The Galleria in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, and Braintree Freeport and Clacton Factory Outlet in Essex. These outlet destinations offer up to 60% savings on RRP prices on designer and well-known brands. Add to that sale discounts and you’ll pick up clothing, accessories and homeware items at a fraction of the original price.

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Photographer: Sanshine Photography, Planner: Katrina Otter Weddings, Florist: Amie Bone Flowers

Wedding Trends of

2019

ast year I shared my top trend predictions for 2018 including transparent details, circular floral backdrops, velvet and my personal favourite… suspended flowers and foliage! And some of these predictions are set to be even bigger news in 2019 – step forward the hotly anticipated trend of intense / bright colours. The good news…2019 promises to be just as inspirational and packed full of trend predictions that can easily be incorporated into the design and/or style of your day. So here it is, my guide to the wedding trends to look out for and be inspired by in 2019:

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Written by Katrina Otter Instagram @katrinaotterwed

The Meghan Effect The wedding of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry has understandably imprinted itself on the wedding industry and will affect wedding trends for years to come and this will be especially discernible in 2019. From the dresses to the natural bridal beauty, the statement yet foam free floral and foliage installations to the Swiss meringue buttercream…to name but a few. It’s therefore no surprise that ‘The Meghan Effect’ has made it to the top of the trends feature for 2019.

Dried flowers and foliage Instagram is suddenly awash with a plethora of images of dried flowers and foliage being used for weddings and styled shoots, from the smaller details (dried confetti) to larger statement pieces (think suspended installations) and even as far as bouquets, buttonholes and floral crowns. The appeal…the nostalgia, the longevity, the flexibility, the uniqueness and of course the impact that they create.

Vibe over palette Every year we, as an industry, make a BIG deal about colour trends and colour palettes and this year is no exception. However, in 2019 I’m also predicting that there will be a significant shift away from defining colour schemes, with couples focusing more on planning weddings that permeate around the notion of a vibe or mood rather than a specific and potentially restrictive theme, colour or colour palette.

Mindful and sustainable weddings This is a BIG trend for 2019 and BIG news for the wedding industry. It’s also one that I’m going to revisit several times in my features throughout the year. The areas that are particularly prominent when it comes to the notion of sustainability and weddings are: • Foam/oasis free florals (it’s actually made from a form of non-biodegradable plastic) • Buying British, local and seasonal • Sustainable bridal fashion • Plastic free weddings (something that has received quite a bit of coverage recently thanks to Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank and their plastic-free Royal wedding)

Outdoor, personalised and celebrant-led ceremonies In 2017, 20% of my couples had celebrant-led ceremonies. This year the figure jumped to 40% and next year…100%. Yes, that’s right – ALL of my couples next year are forgoing legal and religious ceremonies (on the day) in favour of celebrant-led ceremonies. So why this rapid growth in popularity? Well, celebrantled ceremonies can take place in any location, at any time and they can be any format or style you want. Couples can include the traditional elements that suit whilst adding their own individuality, creativity and personality. For such a long time, there’s also been huge restrictions on outdoor weddings and whilst it looks like these regulations might eventually change, outdoor weddings (wherever you want) are already possible when you opt for a personalised, celebrant-led ceremony… another reason for their rapid growth in popularity.

Burgundy, Red and Plum A trend feature wouldn’t be complete without a colour palette prediction… step forward my personal favourite – richly elegant, dramatic and intensely autumnal tones from just-bitten berry to dark and dramatic plum tones. I especially love this palette as it clearly invites you to be adventurous and potentially incorporate tumbling fruit displays into your floral centrepieces and tablescapes.

Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based wedding planner and event organiser with over 10 years experience. Find out how she could help you plan your wedding day at www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk

In a nutshell, celebrant-led ceremonies give couples the freedom to say what’s in their heart and what’s important to them in a setting of their choosing and this is ultimately why we’re seeing such a significant change in the way couples now say ‘I do’.

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Martin Lewis Talks...

Consumer

Stop letting home insurers (price) walk all over you

rice walking is a clever technique many home insurance providers use to make loyal customers pay more. Each year if you stick with them they ‘walk’ up the price of cover – never too quickly to cause alarm, but step, step, step, until they reach their goal. After five years or so you can easily be paying more than 50% over the odds. So ask yourself, when did you last change your home insurance provider? If the answer is more than a year ago, you’re most likely paying a ‘loyalty penalty’ – far more than you’d pay the same company as a new customer. Yet you can easily stop this, and put more money in your pocket without sacrificing quality of cover. The key five steps to getting the right deal on your home insurance are… Step 1: Turn your house upside down to define the right cover There are two elements to home insurance - buildings and contents. An easy way to work out what’s covered is to imagine turning your home upside down: everything that stays put comes under buildings. If it falls out, it’s contents. A joint policy is often easier as it means no jurisdictional disputes between firms. Buildings insurance is only usually needed by freeholders, not renters or leaseholders. You only need to insure the rebuild cost – so how much it would cost to rebuild your home should it get knocked down – rather than the market value, which is the amount it might sell for. To find your rebuild value, there’s a free calculator at abi.bcis.co.uk. Contents cover is for everyone. Make sure that you don’t under insure - to cut costs - thinking you’ll never claim the full amount. If you do, it could mean you’re then paid less if and when you do make a claim. And you often have much more value in your home than you think. Many insurers have useful calculators online to help calculate the amount. You should also go through all the details of things that can make your house safer. Remember insurance pricing is based on a risk assessment. There’s a huge variety of things can impact on the premium you pay. There’s full help on this and other steps in my detailed guide at www.moneysavingexpert.com/homeinsurance

Step 2: Don’t just use one comparison site – combine them Comparison sites are a quick and easy way to find cheap quotes if you’ve relatively straightforward circumstances. Yet in truth they’re not actually comparison sites, they are marketplaces, as they can have special deals and prices with different insurers (but should never be more expensive than going direct). So the best thing to do is to combine a few of them to get a spread of insurers and prices. You can simply open a few windows at a time and put the same information in different ones. Step 3: Check insurers that comparison sites miss Two of the big insurers, www.aviva.co.uk and www.directline.com are not included on comparison sites, so check them separately, especially when they have discounts (Aviva is currently offering a discount of 20% for policies bought online). Also there can be a range of special promo deals that aren’t included on comparison sites. When they’re live they’re listed on www. moneysavingexpert.com/ homeinsurance, so keep an eye out. Step 4: If you want to stay put, haggle Once you’ve found a cheaper policy – you can always try taking the price to your existing provider and ask them to see if they will match it – they often will. Step 5: If you’re switching, once you know what you’re getting, check for cashback Once you know your cheapest policy and crucially you’ve checked IT’S RIGHT FOR YOU, then check if you can earn cashback using a cashback site such as Topcashback.co.uk or www.Quidco.com. These sites pay you if you click through them to other companies and purchase something - such as home insurance. This usually works, but there can be tracking issues, so see this as the icing on the cake rather than a core way to choose. If you’ve got time and your top three policies are all much of a muchness, it can be worth seeing the cashback on offer for all three. Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySavingExpert.com. To join the 13million people who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip.

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MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER

PHEV

Written by Sue Cooke Twitter @cookecars

anuary for me means a New Year, new resolutions and new decisions. And one of those decisions is to make the most of the March number plate changes and buy a new car. With the increasing wintry weather, SUV sales are rising, but I am really spoilt for choice.

I’m tempted to follow in my son’s footsteps and look at the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, one of the UK’s best-selling plug in hybrids. Benefits like low VED and low Benefit in Kind rates, make it a popular company car but the spacious Outlander PHEV which is so economical to run and has all wheel drive to help with slippery road conditions is great for families too. And for long distance driving this month, to see relatives who live further away, the seats are very comfortable. The 2019 Outlander PHEV is the most technically advanced SUV ever produced by MMC and was first

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FACTS AT A G L A N C E

MODEL: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV 4hs PRICE: £41,600 otr ENGINE: 2.4 LITRE AUTO PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 10.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 106 mph CO2 EMISSIONS: 46 g/km (WLTP) COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 139MPG (WLTP)

Motoring launched in the UK in 2014. For 2019, changes to the exterior include a new front grille, bumper and fog lamp bezels and a new LED headlamp system. I’m so glad designers kept the quirky ‘transformer like’ projections which emerge from the bumper and squirt water up at the headlamps. I could have watched them for ages. There is a new rear bumper and spoiler and a new 18” alloy wheel design. In the interior, there is a stylish new front seat design and a reduction in cabin noise and there is an enhanced level of equipment. My son was interested to check out the new “Sport” button, which he doesn’t have on his older PHEV. Press the button and there is a sharper throttle responsiveness, sportier power steering and more grip via the Super All-Wheel Control system. There is also a new SNOW mode to improve low-grip and cornering abilities on slippery surfaces. The traction control system has been revised to improve hill-climbing performance. There is a long list of safety equipment such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure warning and forward collision mitigation. There is also a 360-degree camera which displays a bird’s eye view of the perimeter of the vehicle, which is now one of my ‘must haves’.

where legally permitted. The new powertrain is also more efficient, burning less fuel particularly under light load conditions such as when motorway cruising. Extreme quiet on start-up and in EV mode is one of the features I like the most about the Outlander PHEV. It is so calming and encourages smooth, jerk free driving. I like the automatic tailgate which opens to an absolutely huge boot that will carry 463 litres and there is an underfloor cargo box which copes with 35 litres. There are useful deep pockets either side of the boot space which are ideal for holding the odd carrier bag when you don’t want the contents to spill onto the floor. The battery is housed under the boot area but certainly doesn’t detract from capacity. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a great family car even without the attraction of the Plug in Car Grant, which the Government has decided to stop and which is totally at odds with its Road to Zero Strategy! New Year, New Decision?

A new 2.4 litre petrol engine which I road tested produces more power and more torque. Owners will notice the difference on inclines and when attempting rapid acceleration which is some 0.5 seconds faster than before. Top speed in EV mode moves up from 78mph to 84mph,

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Home & Garden

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Things to think about before you decorate Written by Cindy Fuller, Founder of Designs Direct (www.designsdirect.co.uk)

ecorating your home can be super exciting, but so many of us start the process without really giving it much thought and often buy items because we like them, while not really thinking about whether or not they will actually work in the room. Have you ever heard the expression: ‘If you think hiring an interior designer is expensive...Try decorating without one!’? However, it’s not all doom and gloom. Here are 10 things to think about before you start. You will find tips to help you make the process fun and give you the confidence to kick off your project in the right direction.

3. LIGHTING When designing for clients, one of the first things on the list is where the light is going to be placed, and yet sadly, when putting a scheme together without professional help, it is often forgotten and however is one of the most critical factors. It changes the whole mood of a room. We now have what is called layered lighting, which is basically multiple sources of light which are used to balance a room. Just remember, light can make or break your design giving it a completely different atmosphere, so use wisely!

DESIGNER TIP: Never let the source of the light be seen.

1. TAKE YOUR TIME Live in the space for a while before you even think about decorating. I know how thrilling it can be to move and have new beginnings but think carefully about how you are going to use your space. Does the room have to work double duty or maybe triple-duty? If you are a family and have young children, there may be areas in the rooms that you’ll want to designate just for them so you can keep an eye on them while you are doing other things, especially if they are toddlers. Or do you work from home and need to incorporate a home office into your living room? Once you have decided, then you can start planning.

2. GREY IS THE NEW MAGNOLIA Grey has now replaced magnolia. You can’t go wrong with grey. We are no longer in the days where magnolia was the colour of choice, and it was everyone’s go-to colour. Grey is a much better choice as a base colour as it goes with anything and everything. Although, just a tip, all colours have hues and undertones, yes, even grey, white and black. There have been times in the past I couldn’t work out why a particular grey wasn’t working with another colour until I realised it had a slight green undertone. Think black, now think inky black, if you look at matt black or a glossy black and then an inky black, you will see the beautiful, luxurious blue hue mixed within, giving you a beautiful defining indigo colour.

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5. MEASURE, MEASURE AND THEN MEASURE AGAIN This sounds so simple, but it may surprise you to learn that some of us, (yes, you know who you are), buy large, expensive pieces of furniture without actually checking whether it will even fit in the room, or worse, through the front door! Size matters! And nowhere is it more valid than when decorating. The easiest way I have found is to measure your space and draw it to scale (you will need a scale ruler for this), on a piece of coloured card. Use different coloured cards to cut out the size (to scale) and shape of your furniture and effortlessly manoeuvre it around your card. It’s so much easier shifting around paper than it is furniture and the kids can join in!

a painting or in a garden. Or of course my all-time favourite, Pinterest. Or Instagram, but don’t say I didn’t warn you, it can become very addictive! Look for colours you love and you feel you could live with. If you don’t like bright colours, opt for colours in a muted tone. And remember, less is definitely more.

9 COLOURS 6. YOU DO THE MATHS Now I’m no Einstein, if fact, I once asked my maths teacher if he thought I would ever really use algebra, he apparently thought he knew me well by replying: “No, you won’t, but one of the smart kids might!” I did finally get over this. However, it pays to brush up on it as decorating is all about proportion and balance and it comes in very useful.

7. USE WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE This may sound like a simple idea, but when decorating a new room, our instincts are to rush out and buy all new stuff. That’s great if you have a healthy budget but what if you don’t? Make a list and even take photographs and attach them to a mood board. A mood board is merely a piece of paper or card with images, clippings, colour ideas and anything that inspires you. You could even make a Pinterest board for it and ask your friends what they think! Take photos of what you already have and add them to the board, that way when you are out you are not tempted to buy a replacement for an item you already own.

DESIGNER TIP: If you already have an Ikea kitchen, leave the carcass and purchase just the doors. 8. INSPIRATION

As far as colours go, if you have a reasonably good sized room, pretty much anything goes. That’s great I hear you say but what if my room is small or it has to do double or triple duty? This really does not have to be an issue. If you do have to divide the space, then it helps to designate each area before you start. That way you’ll know exactly how much space you have to work with in each section. This can be done by using different colours, finishes or flooring or all of the above. It may help to use masking tape to plot the area first and then measure. While we are talking about colour, get yourself a compass, I will let you into a little secret, light reflects differently on where it falls. So, for instance, ever wondered why that beautiful hue of cerise pink doesn’t look the same in your back garden as it did in that fabulous riad in Morocco?

10. THE 60/30/10 RULE This is definitely one rule you should apply. The 60/30/10 rule applies to the relationship between three elements. Using colour components, for example, one colour should cover 60%, another 30% and another 10%. Decorating is all about balance. This can be used for example by either three colours in different shades or 60% as wall colour, 30% as covered furniture and 10% as accessories.

When you are faced with a blank canvas of a room, it can be pretty daunting of just where to start. So if you’re looking for inspiration, there are countless places to find it. I recently was helping a friend who found a piece of art she liked at Ikea. We formed the whole room around this, matching the colours and finishes and she absolutely adores it. Inspiration can be found in a beautiful scarf, a museum,

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Written by Cindy Fuller, Founder of Designs Direct (www.designsdirect.co.uk)

f your kitchen is looking tired and the thought of a new kitchen is making you anxious, rather than purchasing an entirely new kitchen, update the kitchen you already have. There are many ways to do this on a budget. With so many products out there to choose from it’s sometimes hard to decide which area to give ‘a new look’. Here’s seven tips to help you through the maze of information. It’s actually a lot easier and less expensive than you would think.

them first. You can purchase a good range of chalk paint colours and again these are available from places such as Homebase and B&Q. Remember to wax them after the paint has dried to keep them protected from everyday wear and looking good. It’s also fun to do paint effects with chalk paint such as sponging, dragging or you could try a stippling effect. The finish would depend on the brush you use.

Replacing handles Without a doubt this is by far the most cost-effective way to update your kitchen. All you need is a screwdriver, places such as Homebase and B&Q offer chrome door handles for as little as a £1, so there really is no excuse.

Painting the doors and drawers It’s incredible what a tin of paint can do, if I have a client that wants a change of colour and they are not used to painting furniture, I suggest they use chalk paint. The great thing about chalk paint is there is absolutely no prep work involved at all. All you have to do is paint straight on top of what you have. Unless of course, you are painting over high gloss in which case you would have to sand

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Opt for a different splashback This is a great way to add some colour if you have a black and white kitchen. You can find inexpensive tiles if you shop around, try places like Topps Tiles. If you give them your measurements, they will tell you how many tiles you will need. Don’t forget the grouting, I often suggest adding a contrast colour for the grouting, so for example, white subway tiles with a dark grey grouting, it’s a lovely effect. If you want to really save, you could cover your tiles with removable tiles or peel and stick as they are known. These can be purchased from companies such as Wayfair and depending on which ones you chose, range from £14.99 for a panel of 15 cm x 15 cm. They offer a beautiful Sea Glass peel and stick panel which is 25.4 cm square for £18.99. This is a great way to update your kitchen without having to get a tiler in.

Replacing doors and drawers If your kitchen doors and drawers have had their day, there is no need to throw out the existing carcass. It’s possible to save around 50% when you do this. I always suggest this to my clients as it’s a terrific way to keep the costs down. You can buy these online at companies such as Kitchen and Bedroom Doors or Dream Doors UK. These companies also sell worktops and handles. Some companies offer to send a sample of the door to ensure you are completely happy. The majority of these companies provide doors and drawers to fit most standard kitchens, but you could also get them made. Either way, it’s going to bring down the cost considerably.

Change the window dressing It helps to remember when purchasing curtains or blinds for kitchens, that there is a lot of humidity, so only buy fabrics that are made from vinyl or PVC or with a protective coating, as these will be mould resistant and waterproof. Companies such as Blinds 2 Go offer a 30 cm x 30 cm blind for under £30 making it a great option. They also offer you samples and are delivered within 7-10 working days. At Designs Direct, we offer a Window Treatment Package which is perfect for this. We have designers trained just in soft furnishings, and they source your blind or curtain fabric for you at a discount.

Adding an island If you are fortunate enough to have space, add a kitchen island. This will not only give you more counter space, but it will also give you a lot more storage. It doesn’t even have to be the same finish as the rest of the kitchen, it can be something entirely different as long as it blends, by this I mean; if you have chrome handles, don’t opt for gold fittings on the island. Kitchen islands don’t even need to be fitted. Clients have occasionally opted to go for one on casters. This makes it that much easier to push aside if you have guests eating in your kitchen.

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BATHROOMS Written by Kate Garside

he bathroom is one of the most used rooms in the house and yet often the one that we give the least thought to when buying or renovating a property. So many home commercial developers simply put the same bland boring bathroom suite in; their choice usually dictated by budget rather than aesthetics or quality. This month we are going to look at some of the current key trends in bathrooms and how you can update this small but essential room in your home, without breaking the bank, and turn it into your own personal sanctuary. Monochrome is all the rage Luckily most bathroom suites are white which means this is a very easy trend to follow and update. If you are refitting your bathroom, white suites in either contemporary or traditional styles are still very much on trend. Black and grey on the walls are still big this year in interiors. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re feeling adventurous you could go for black wall tiles or paint. If you are doing it on a budget simply add black accessories. If you have a freestanding metal bath you can easily change the colour by painting the outside black or grey.

Textured wall tiles are another key trend Go for neutral or monochrome colours such as white, champagne, grey and black. For floors encaustic geometric patterned tiles are likely to be popular in 2019 and look fantastic in grey and black. Check out a company called OTTO tiles (www.ottotiles.co.uk), who have a lovely selection to choose from and to inspire you. Make sure when you are choosing your tiles you match your grout to the tiles. Grout is now

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available in a wide range of colours. Grey grout will always be lower maintenance than white so this might be something to consider when choosing your tile colour.

Matt metallic gold, champagne and bronze If you are changing your taps or shower a key trend is to deviate from shiny chrome and opt for warmer matt gold and bronze metallic. Bathroom accessories with the same metallic work well with this look.

Tropical oasis This is a fun trend and one that I love. Add a tropical pot plant such as an orchid, palm, rubber plants or a spider plant in a beautiful pots to your bathroom to create a holiday vibe. Choose a planter that works with your chosen scheme. Maybe a black or white pot for a monochrome scheme or a matt metallic. If you don’t want to add plants then a simple vase and some cut flowers can look very effective and bring a feeling of luxury to your bathroom.

Who would not love to have their own personal day spa? You can achieve the look and feel easily with the addition of carefully folded matching white towels, scented candles in neutral colours, white bath robes and beautifully displayed bath products, also in neutral colours. Tidy all the everyday clutter away into the bathroom cupboards, get out the scented candles and products that you have been saving, and you have created your very own spa.

Freestanding furniture is big Another stylish trend if you have a large bathroom is to add some freestanding furniture

to your design. For example, an antique glass fronted bookcase can be repurposed as towel storage. A chest of drawers is great for storing all those things you don’t necessarily want on view. You can paint it to fit in with your colour scheme. Go for neutrals if you want to stay on trend or leave it as natural wood. Try a cocktail table next to the bath to put your drinks and toiletries on. You can have a lot of fun finding suitable pieces if you visit your local auction house or antiques centre.

Easy bathroom updates A very easy and effective way to refresh your bathroom and another trend for 2019, is to add a feature mirror or a piece of artwork. A matt gold or black frame can work very well or a monochrome piece of art but really just go with what you love. A good way to create some texture and a pop of colour is to add a cosy rug!

Treat yourself to some new towels Changing your towels is a quick and inexpensive way to refresh your bathroom on a budget. Think of it in a similar way to getting some new cushions for your sofa. If you want to be on trend this winter go for dark grey or black towels, and maybe swap them for light grey or white in the spring to create a fresher look. Soft fluffy white towels are always classy and will go with any colour scheme.

Finishing touches Turning your bathroom into a sanctuary does not have to cost a fortune. It’s all in the detail. Luxury bath items and accessories can be purchased inexpensively at TK Maxx at a fraction of their normal cost and will give your bathroom the day spa or five star hotel feel. Light the candles, turn down the lights, pour yourself a glass of something lovely and slip into a warm fragrant bubble bath and relax. It’s just what the doctor ordered! Kate lives in North Norfolk and is an owner of a holiday cottage in Blakeney that she has renovated with her husband and now rents as a holiday let. She is passionate about vintage and antique furniture & china, upcycling, gardening and Norfolk.www.blakeney-cottage.co.uk

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Lauren Harris, Senior Designer at DFS takes a moment out of her day designing sofas in DFS’ design studio, to let us in on the trends we can expect to see in 2019...

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STYLE DFS Zania Sofa; Dulux colour of the year

Down to earth

Bold florals

When it comes to colour, we’re seeing a move towards warm hues such as rust, burnt orange and terracotta, and earth tones are predicted to be a big trend for 2019. We recently worked with Dulux to create a limited edition of our popular Zania modular sofa, centred around the Dulux 2019 Colour of the Year, Spiced Honey, and colours from Dulux’s ‘Think’ palette, new for 2019. Work this look by dressing the sofa with a range of tactile cushions in complementary shades to create a soothing, inviting place to relax.

Botanical and floral prints remained popular throughout 2018 and this trend is set to continue in 2019, in particular bright, busy flower head motifs. Our Joules Cambridge sofa, part of the Joules collection available exclusively at DFS, offers a classic form and exquisite detailing which will be a hit with those who like a traditional look, while its bold floral print and bright shades keep it on trend. Use the sofa as your colour palette for a fun and colourful look, or keep the walls and floors neutral to make the sofa the star of the show.

Tactile textures

Mixing it up

Velvet will remain huge for 2019 but boucle will take the top spot this year - at DFS, we’re working on ranges that will use boucle fabrics to offer a tactile and contemporary edge. Textured fabrics were everywhere at last year’s Salone Del Mobile international design show, and at our design studio, we’re working up designs that will mix and layer different textured fabrics within single pieces, to reflect this trend.

We’re seeing more and more people mix and match their furniture to create a personalised, eclectic look. At DFS, our research has shown that around one in five customers have ditched the matching three-piece suite in favour of a mix and match approach. Our Peace chair is a great option for this trend, as it comes in a choice of five fabrics and 31 shades, along with a choice of four feet colours, so you can select the perfect combination for your look.

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We list the hottest interior trends sweeping the nation in 2019

s we enter the New Year, it’s exciting to look forward to the interior trends of 2019; where we can begin anew and explore new ways to reinvent our homes. It’s for this reason property specialists, Sellhousefast.uk have explored the interior trends favoured by different regions across the UK (in 2017), in addition to discovering what interior trends have been most popular in 2018, and what we can swap them for in 2019. To achieve this, Sell House Fast analysed a report by Homewings titled: ‘The Homewings Interiors Trend Report 2018.’ The report reviewed over 13,000 style quiz surveys across the UK. For residents in the middle of England, a traditional take on ‘Scandi’ was a personal favourite; minimalism and muted hues is key. Similar interior trends can be mapped in the South West and East Anglia. While ‘modern tradition’ suits residents in the South West; the ultimate balance between style and comfort, East Anglian residents take it one step further with ‘country chic’; a shabby-yet-stylish look, enhanced with delicate colour schemes. SellHouseFast selected the biggest trends with inspiration from Livingetc and Elle Décor in 2018 and sourced alternatives to swap them for in 2019.

Brass With copper fading fast in 2017, brass became the metal finish to experiment with in 2018. In 2019, swap it for: Concrete. All things industrial will be a big trend in 2019. Tough yet practical, concrete is a great addition to the home,

especially in the bathroom. If you’re worried it will look too utilitarian, don’t forget it can be polished down for a sleek, smooth finish.

Velvet Luscious velvet has been seen everywhere in 2018, most notably in sofas and soft furnishings. In 2019, swap it for: Passementerie. Passementerie is the art of making elaborate trimmings or edges; think fringing and tassels. Sumptuously retro, this trend will be seen in vibrant colour combinations and unusual shapes. It’s the perfect way to accessorise a plain background and adds a fabulous, flirty feel and texture too.

Terracotta and Rust Bold and non-conformist, tones of terracotta and rust featured in many homes this year. In 2019, swap it for: Honey and nude. 2019 will call for a far more elegant palette of warm, autumnal shades that will melt into the New Year. Utterly warming shades of classic cashmere, sand and oatmeal are the perfect place to start.

Terrazzo Floors With its many colour combinations, alternative flooring made an impact in 2018. In 2019, swap it for: Scallops and scales. In 2019, interiors will dive into the ocean (thank Sir David Attenborough for this trend!) Curved, scalloped furniture will be a big trend in living spaces and bedrooms. While mermaid and fish scale tiles will breathe life into every bathroom or kitchen surface.

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

oday has been one of those interesting winter days where no matter how hard it tries, it just never seems to get light. It is also bitterly cold. Lamps have been left on all day, as has the heating and thoughts of pottering around the garden seem like a distant dream. Percy Cane at Imperial Gardens

often wondered what happened to Percy’s original plans, drawn up in 1935. We considered ourselves lucky to even have a rather poor photocopy of them. So to find out they are literally just up the road from us is fabulous news. Liz has kindly promised to show us them in the New Year. It would be wonderful if we were able to obtain a high quality copy, which could be framed and hung on one of our walls overlooking the garden. By the time you read this I am hoping we will have our first glimpse of the snowdrops we planted in the autumn. For me they are always the turning point, hinting at longer days to come and new beginnings. It seems particularly poignant right now, living in a world where we are surrounded by so much change and unpredictability, that mother nature at least can be relied on to provide us with some certainty and routine. Wishing you a very prosperous and happy 2019.

Read more on Wendy’s blog at www.wendyswholeworld.com So it was rather lovely to have the distraction of a trip to the Frinton & Walton Heritage Trust to look forward to. I found myself there with a completely different hat on; a quest to unearth some of Frinton’s Summer Theatre history. However, whilst chatting to one of the Trust’s archivists, Liz, I had the most wonderful surprise. Having not met Liz before, one thing becomes instantly apparent; there isn’t much this lady doesn’t know about Frintonon-Sea and its history. As soon as Liz became aware of exactly where in the town I lived, she gleefully told me that the trust is the proud owner of the original plans for the Percy Cane garden we have inherited! Suddenly this dull and dreary winter’s day had been turned into a joyous celebration. My husband and I have

Percy Cane at Dartington

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n today’s world consumers go online to look for information to support their buying decisions, but it can be tough, you often find yourself falling into a Right Move hole and the task becomes tedious. Richard Carpenter from Fine & Country St Neots (www.fineandcountry.com) discusses how to maximise property viewings online and through other opportunities.

Shopping is no longer about showing up at a store to make a purchase. Consumers often do their research on the go, using smartphones and tablets to find information. Given this phenomenon, it’s not surprising that the real estate marketplace has also become increasingly digitalised. Approximately 90% of home buyers begin their search for a new home online; consequently an online presence is a vital component of any marketing strategy. For today’s buyers, it’s also about getting accurate information quickly and conveniently. Agents bridge the gap between internet research and viewing a property, which ultimately leads to buying a home. More traditional marketing methods still play a role. Consider your own buying habits – a shop window display can still be the trigger that leads to a sale. While in the main, agents are dealing with customers who have done research online first, a well-presented property in print media may still be the motivation for a website search.

The statistics of people that browse portals such as Zoopla or Rightmove are staggering. An estimated 2.6 million people log on at least once a day. Research also shows that a viewer’s eye is naturally drawn to items that stand out. Ensuring the first impression is right is important, as this will entice buyers to a home viewing. It is still a home inspection that will ultimately convince the buyer the home is the right one for them. There is a move to digital viewings, but this is more likely to be for an investment property, which is a less emotive purchase. The rules about presenting a property for digital viewing are still the same; de-cluttering, presentation and letting plenty of light in still apply. Agents have become skilled in using internet marketing tools and can advise you on the best media options for a particular property. They have also developed expertise in using e-mail marketing tools effectively. With potential buyers able to browse through hundreds of properties at the click of a button, providing the essential information that will move them to the viewing stage has become a highly valuable skill. Social media platforms, such as Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, also have a part to play. Utilising different types of media can give unique insight into your home for sale. While it’s still important to maintain an appropriate marketing mix, the statistics are increasingly pointing towards digital marketing as the most important element of a property sale.

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Arts

The Arts Column Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right. Tel: 01462 685139 | www.nortonwaygallery.com

nce again the New Year is upon us and it is time to start marking the diaries and calendars with appointments and events. Be sure to include as many visual treats as possible. Why not pencil in a visit to one of our wonderful, regional fine art galleries. There you will be able to inspire your soul, warm your heart and face the colder days with creative resolve. Many galleries will be displaying superb collections over the next few weeks and longer. I have chosen the Bircham Gallery for January. Dedicated to original and meaningful art they will be holding an excellent exhibition of work from artist printmakers. Printmaking is one of the oldest and truly creative image-making processes. It is not for the faint-hearted artist and takes much experience, skill, nerve and dedication. The works produced are all original pieces and should not be confused with reproductions or giclee prints, embellished or not. The specific printing method the artist adopts will have its special characteristics and is usually chosen for this reason. Due to the, sometimes, unpredictable outcomes, printmakers often describe the process as being managed rather than controlled. Although there has to be a strong forethought of how the finished pieces should turn out, the nature of the different processes ensures that serendipity will be at play.

Mother and Daughters with Bird by Anita Klein

With each different process it is usually possible to produce more than one finished image. This is because the artist uses a block or a plate to apply the medium to the paper, rather than a brush or pencil. The plate is usually created in a solid form. With etching and drypoints, a copper plate is often used. With woodcuts and wood engravings, it will be no surprise that the plate is made from wood. By cutting, gouging or scratching, using different kinds of sharp instruments, the artist is able to mark the plate creating an initial crude, reverse template. Once a plate has been created the artist can apply their chosen material such as ink or watercolour and sometimes oil paint. The plate is then pressed to the paper or other material, producing an impression. This process can be repeated many times and with each repetition the result will be subtly different. Unless using a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Monoâ&#x20AC;? type of printing method, there will usually be more than one original made and kept. The artist will only chose the individual pieces that they deem to be successful, discarding many of the previously attempted impressions. The collective of these pieces is called an edition and should be numbered and signed by the artist. The Bircham Gallery has a particularly strong contingent of printmakers. This latest collection will include etchings, drypoints, linocuts, mono prints and many more different examples. Brightly uplifting portraits from world famous Anita Klein PPRE, will entice you into her world of family, friends and relationships. Whilst beautifully composed depictions of wildfowl and landscapes from master wood engraver Colin See Paynton, will leave you full of wonder and awe at his incredibly intricate and breathtakingly beautiful work. Printmakers, 12 January - 6 February 2019 Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, Norfolk, NR25 6BW. Tel: 01263 713312 | www.birchamgallery.co.uk

Cormorants & Eels by Colin See Paynton

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24 November 2018 - 28 April 2019 CHRISTCHURCH MANSION, IPSWICH

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Arts News for January

Holt Festival Announces 2019 Dates The award-winning Holt Festival will be returning to the North Norfolk town on from 21-27 July 2019, under the new permanent artistic directorship of Anwen Hurt. Anwen promises to retain all the popular mix of styles that have made the festival such a hit for the past 10 years while introducing new strands that she is sure will prove popular with locals and visitors alike. Previous festivals have seen the likes of Michael Palin, Jasper Carrott, Melvyn Bragg, The Stranglers, Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel, Suzy Quatro, ,Michael Buerke, Dr John Cooper Clarke, Joanna Trollope, Kate Adie and Julie Christie. The first highlights will be announced in late February with the full programme going on sale at the end of April and there’s sure to be another dazzling international array of music, drama, visual art, film, literature, dance, comedy, kids shows and more. There’s also the Holt Festival – Sir John Hurt Art Prize, named in honour of the much missed screen legend (and Anwen’s husband) who was such a great supporter of the Festival. The Prize attracts entries from all over the country with the shortlisted entries being exhibited throughout the Festival week and a cheque for £1,700 and a showing at Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts for the winner. Full details at www.holtfestival.org

‘Art, obsession and maturity’ at The Crypt Gallery, Norwich According to art critics, it’s the era of mature, women artists and now, a new exhibition ‘Obsession, Art and Maturity’ at The Crypt Gallery at the Norwich School, will celebrate this trend for the rise of older women artists by showcasing the work of three leading, Norwich-based artists from 21 March to 5 April. Photographer Julia Cameron, painter Mary Mellor and sculptor Vanessa Pooley all have decades of experience, a notable back catalogue of work – and a lifelong creative obsession that has led them to create their most inspired work later in life. A new phenomenon in the art world now sees critics overlook the young and up-and-coming in favour of veteran creatives – and particularly more mature women artists. All three artists in the Norwich exhibition are united by a lifelong creative obsession with a theme. Photographer Julia Cameron, 64, repeatedly visits the same sparse landscapes around the salt marshes and the South Beach of Great Yarmouth, while painter Mary Mellor, 68, has returned to the theme of composition in paintings over many decades producing tens of works that revisit this. Sculptor Vanessa Pooley, 60, has been obsessed with the female figure since she began working as an artist 40 years ago. www.cryptgallery.space

The Affordable Art Show at The Corn Hall, Diss The Corn Hall will be exhibiting work from more than 20 local artists as part of the Affordable Art Show, until 12 January. Visitors can view and buy sdiverse and affordable artworks, ranging from prints and paintings to ceramics and multi-media pieces. All art will be available to purchase for a maximum price of £250, with many available for less. The gallery spaces are open Monday – Saturday, 10am-4pm. All exhibitions are free entry. www.thecornhall.co.uk Photographer Julia Cameron

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10 of the Best

Essex Villages to Visit in 2019

Written by Abby Knight

hether you already live in the county and just want a little inspiration of where to visit or are thinking of taking a day trip or longer – Essex has some of the prettiest villages and coastal towns in the UK, here we’ve picked our top 10:

1.Battlesbridge – boats, antiques and more The small village of Battlesbridge has a distinctly vintage feel holding regular classic car and motorbike shows, and the converted riverside lofts are the hub for a number of antiques and collectible shops. Located on the River Crouch, it’s been a base for the river industry for over 100 years and boats and barges still sail by regularly making it a good place to sit and while away an hour or two. Must try: The Barge Inn is one of two pubs in Battlesbridge that serves traditional gastro-style pub food in a cosy rustic setting and is dog-friendly. Check out the garden in summer too! Visit bargebattlesbridge.co.uk for details.

2. Thaxted – A historical gem It’s the striking combination of historical architecture and rolling countryside that makes Thaxted a real jewel to visit and explore. You’ll love the brightly coloured houses with their traditional thatched rooves and there’s lots of pretty walks to enjoy including one to the church that has wonderful views of the Chelmer valley. Must try: John Webb’s Windmill is one of the finest examples of an Essex mill lovingly restored by a local family, it’s free admission and great to visit in early spring.

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3. Stock – as pretty as a picture As well as being one of the most affluent villages in Essex, Stock is one of the most picturesque too. With a history that stretches back, there is a thriving heritage society who can give you a real insight into the village’s history. Stock’s All Saints Church dates back to the early 13th century and there’s a windmill to visit too, plus Stock woods is the perfect place to take a doggy companion – especially during the snowdrop and bluebell seasons. Must try: Voted one of the best places to take afternoon tea, Greenwoods Hotel & Spa is situated in a grade II listed 17th century manor house. Afternoon tea is served every day in the cosy manor lounge, from £23.50, call 01277 829990 or visit greenwoodshotel.co.uk for details.

4. Tillingham – step back in time Located in the Maldon district with a population of just 1,000, this tiny village has a real community feel and the village green overlooking the church is the perfect place to sip a pint in the warmer weather. Must try: The Cap & Feathers pub dates back to the 15th century and has lots of atmosphere. Book for one of the tasty curry night events or look out for the BBQs that take place most weeks during the summer. Visit capandfeathers.co.uk for details.

5. Dedham – a jewel on the river Most well-known as being Constable Country, famous 19th century artist John Constable used the pretty riverside village of Dedham with its dramatic lowland landscapes and water meadows along the River Stour as the subject for many of his paintings. There is also lots of impressive architecture to see too and some pretty walks to take on a good day. Make sure you hire a row boat

Essex

and make the most of this splendid location. Must do: The Sun Inn is an original medieval coaching inn dating back to the 15th century which is now a stylish restaurant with seven 5-star individual rooms to stay each with en-suite facilities. The restaurant serves modern European food as well as popular Sunday roast or why not try an early spring afternoon tea? It also has a ‘Sunday Sleepover’ offer which includes Sunday lunch, dinner, accommodation and complimentary breakfast at £200, conditions apply. Visit suninndedham.com for menu and details.

6. Stansted Mountfitchet – the castle on the hill Dating back to Saxon times with a good amount of 16th and 17th century history attached to it too, visiting this impressive village is like stepping back in time. The windmill built in 1787 dominates the skyline and there’s a wide range of wonderful pubs and restaurants to choose from once you’ve strolled the winding streets to Mountfitchet Castle. Must try: The House On the Hill Toy Museum situated next to the castle is reportedly the largest toy museum in the world with over 80,000 exhibits dating back. Find out more by visiting stanstedtoymuseum.com for details.

7. Wivenhoe – a seaside treat Steeped in maritime history, this bustling town has long been a hub for the artistic community in Essex as well as being the home of the award-winning University of Essex and its students. Visit the quay and take a trip on the ferry along the river to view the wildlife then stop for lunch in one of the many pubs and restaurant, including the Tudor Tea Rooms and the Black Buoy that serves a variety of real ales. Must try: The Nottage Maritime Institute is a registered charity dating back to 1896 that not only provides RYA shore-based courses but can also teach you how to build a boat! With a great collection of photographs Thaxted

Dedham

and pictures, it makes a great morning or afternoon visit. Open seasonally. Visit nottage.org.uk for details.

8. Writtle – the village on the green This gem of a village located just a mile from Chelmsford was once described as the loveliest in England most likely due to its traditional green, duck pond, the ancient church and cottages. It’s also home to Hylands House & Park, a grade II, Neo-classical villa that is well known for hosting V Festival, now Rize music festival each summer. Must try: The Bridge Street Lounge & Grill is a family restaurant that serves a fantastic a la carte menu and has a smart outside eating area for warmer days – and nights. Visit bridgestreetlounge-grill.com for details.

9. Frinton-on-Sea – an elegant beach resort This seasonal town in Essex’s Tendring District has been visited by many notable people including the current Prince of Wales and Winston Churchill, who even rented a house there one summer. As well as the many boutiques, shops and bars along the smart seafront there is the Frinton Golf Club where you can enjoy a coffee as a nonresident too. Must try: There’s nothing better than Frinton beach – even on a winter’s day. Totally unspoilt but safe for paddling and swimming, pack a picnic and breathe in the fresh air!

10. Ashdon – nestling on the river Sitting just on the border of Essex and Cambridgeshire along the River Bourn, Ashdon has one of the few remaining post mills in Essex, Bragg’s Mill, which was fully restored and reopened in 2006. It is a grade II listed building and makes for some great pictures on a sunny day. Take a stroll along to the 13th century All Saints Church before stopping for a coffee or drink in one of the pretty pubs. Must try: The Rose & Crown pub is a popular eatery serving home-cooked food including the now-famous sticky toffee pudding dessert and some great ales. Call 01799 584337 for details and opening times.

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Sir Alfred Munnings forged much of his early reputation from time spent as a war artist in France during 1918. In 2019, for the first time in 100 years, 41 paintings by Munnings are returning together from the Canadian War Museum, Ottawa. In this once-in-a-lifetime display the finished paintings will be shown side by side with the surviving sketchbooks, from the museum’s own collection, that inspired them. An additional 150 of Munnings life’s works will be hung chronologically throughout the museum to give a sense of the man and his art. 3031 MAM-Advert_Eastlife_148x107.indd 1

The Dorrington

23 March - 3 November 2019 2pm-5pm, Wednesday to Friday and Bank Holiday Mondays Adults £8 (inc seniors) Children £1 Concessions for students and National Art Pass holders • Group bookings welcome Car and coach parking • Cafe and shop The Munnings Art Museum Castle Hill, Dedham, CO7 6AZ www.munningsmuseum.org.uk enquiries@munningsmuseum.org.uk 01206 322127 Reg. charity no. 310671 12/11/2018 13:49

The Dorrington for your celebratory parties, both large and small.

2 great venues for your event!

The Trinity Nightclub

The Trinity Nightclub on the first floor has a capacity of 230 guests and is available to hire FOR ONLY £275 for a four hour slot to include DJ. Alternatively you can have The River Lounge FREE OF CHARGE for smaller parties. It can hold 60 guests and is ideal for Birthday Parties, Baby Showers, anniversaries etc. Email your enquiry to thedorrington@gmail.com The Dorrington Halstead - Essex CO9 1JD Tel: 07790955805 www.thedorrington.co.uk enquiries to: thedorrington@gmail.com

What’s on in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 4-5 Jan Hansel and Gretel Go Down in the Woods With a minimum of set, props and costume the fearless company of 3 actors will take on the traditional and the not so traditional pantomime characters to keep you entertained and prolong the all too short seasonal spirit! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 6-Jan The King and I: From the London Palladium An encore screening of the multiaward-winning and critically acclaimed Lincoln Center Theater’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s ‘The King And I’, recorded live from London’s iconic Palladium. Saffron Screen, Saffron Walden County High School, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4UH. 01799 500238. saffronscreen.com 7-12 Jan Benidorm Live Litten has now written an all new set of Alicante escapades for the much-loved cast members as they swap sangria for the stage - after a quick spruce up at the Blow ‘n’ Go! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA . 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 11-12 Jan Sam Avery – The Learner Parent Stand-up comedian, viral blogger and bestselling author Sam Avery (aka the Learner Parent) started his award-winning blog when his twin boys were born. A million nappies, Peppa Pig episodes and a head-full of hair loss later, he shares all the lows, highs and hilarious in-betweens of his experiences of first-time parenthood. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-Jan Bugsy Malone Be transported back to the roaring 1920s as we follow Bugsy, Fat Sam and a full supporting cast in a high octane mix of song and

dance. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633. www.tendringdc. gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 12-Jan The Bodyguard A magical rollercoaster ride through three decades of classic hits. This award-winning production features a sensational line-up of musicians and artists, creating a powerhouse breathtaking performance in the spirit of Whitney. Queens Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 15-Jan Sandi Toksvig Live! National Trevor Expect tall stories, fascinatingly funny facts, really silly jokes, a quick fire Q&A and a quiz. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19-Jan Andrew Lawrence - Clean Andrew Lawrence, star of Live at The Apollo and Michael McIntyre’s Roadshow and UK comedy’s foremost controversialist takes a break from all the outrage to present an all new hour of good, clean fun. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19 Jan - 28 Sep Afternoon Glee Harlow’s very own drag queen Fanny will be your host, and you might even get to enjoy some lip-syncing from the Queen herself. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 19-Jan Ministry of Science Keep your head firmly on your shoulders, arms, legs and feet inside the ride at all timess - ‘Ministry of Science Live’ is about to explode onto the stage. Queens Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 21-26 Jan The Lady Vanishes A new adaptation of the much-loved film - directed by Alfred Hitchcocka-

nd starring Margaret Lockwood and Michael Redgrave. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 22 Jan - 2 Feb The Bodyguard Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge – what they don’t expect is to fall in love. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 30 Jan - 9 Feb Annie Join Annie, a plucky, charming orphan girl, and her loveable adopted mutt named Sandy, as they take you on a musical adventure in 1930’s New York. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 31-Jan That’ll Be The Day! This latest production features a fantastic new-line-up of smash hits spanning the 50s, 60s, 70s & 80s, plus more side-splitting comic sketches, all performed live on-stage! Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 31 Jan - 3 Feb Rapunzel ‘Clacton Musical Theatre Society’ present a tangled tale of a tiny baby stolen away in the night, and locked in a tower by the evil Witch Gothel. Will she ever be rescued and escape the tower she so longs to leave? West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clactonon-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk MUSIC 16-17 Jan Fastlove 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. Plus the awesome tunes of the nineties and noughties, including the irresistible Flawless.

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Real Diamond

Friday 18 January 7.45pm Friday 15 February 7.30pm Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG Box Office: 01245 606505 Chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres

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 Adults - £7 Concessions - £6 Children (over 5) - £3 Guided tours for groups or schools also available at any time outside normal opening hours by prior arrangement. The House and/or Gardens are also available for hire for public or private events such as weddings, concerts, exhibitions or corporate events

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

session is the perfect place to take experience with his stunning five to read a newspaper or grab rendition of all his favourite songs. a book - they will even keep the Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, children entertained. The Vintage Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354 Rose, 32 Quest Place, Maldon, www.braintreeartstheatre.com CM9 5AG. 07804 406561 ARTS & CULTURE 12-Jan Photography Workshops Until 17 Jan Paloma Proudfoot | An in-depth look at exposure and Metropolitan Wares how light affects your images, Proudfoot works in sculpture, manual mode - how and when to ceramics, site specific installation, use it, how changing perspective performance and clothes-makcan dramatically change your shots ing. Alongside this exhibition, and how to take good photographs the Hideaway Gallery will exhibit 18-Jan Back To Bacharach in low light and other difficult condiwork produced by school The production features four of the tions. Hylands House, Hylands Park, students in artist-run education finest West End Vocalists accomLondon Road, Chelmsford, CM2 workshops. Gibberd Gallery, panied by The Magic Moments 8WQ. 07900 926187. www. Civic Centre, The Water Gardens, Orchestra (100% live) recreating Burt goingdigital.co.uk/photograHarlow, CM20 1WG. 01279 446404. Bacharach’s timeless hits. Palace phy-courses-in/east-anglia www.gibberdgallery.co.uk Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. 12 & 22 Jan Farm Open Day at Until 3 Feb Collections Recrafted www.southendtheatres.org.uk Lauriston Farm at Saffron Walden Museum This is a great opportunity to learn A display by the Eastern Region 18-Jan Real Diamond more about biodynamic farming, Textile Forum, of creative textiles Diamond fans undoubtedly all have the work the farm does and how inspired by the Museum’s coltheir favourite songs...and these becoming a shareholder can help lections. Museum Street, Saffron will also be in this performance expand the farm’s amazing work Walden, CB10 1JL. 01799 510333 starring John Hylton, but the creating a sustainable future. www.saffronwaldenmuseum.org principal content is the complete Goldhanger, CM9 8AH Jazz Singer album. Civic Theatre, www.lauristonfarm.co.uk 14-27 Jan Terry Whittle Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG Terry has been painting for about 20 01245 606505. 26-Jan Burns’ Night Supper at years. He is largely self-taught and www.chelmsford.gov.uk Wivenhoe House Hotel works mainly with watercolours, with A warm welcome from the piper occasional excursions into acrylics 24-Jan Nathan Carter: Born For awaits you in the main house. Before & gouache. Queens Theatre, Billet The Road enjoying a four course feast of traLane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT. Nathan performs an array of original ditional Scottish fare and traditional www.queens-theatre.co.uk songs and covers which show the ceremonies. £44.50 per person. tone and range of his vocal ability Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, 19-Jan Theory Opera | Sharing which, on occasion emotes clearly CO4 3SQ. 01206 863666 Stories: with author Shrabani his own passion for the songs and www.wivenhoehouse.co.uk/burnsBasu what being Irish means to him. night-supper This closing event that sets out to The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse discover the personal stories of Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES soldiers and others during the First 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 13-Jan Essex Antiques & World War. Presented by Shrabani Collectables Fair Basu – author of ‘Victoria & Abdul: 25-Jan Wilson & Wakeman Items such as stamps, ephemera, The True Story Of The Queen’s They’ll play songs from their individmilitaria, china, glass, figurines, Closest Confidant’, the inspiration ual back catalogues and artists they pottery, coins, and lots more. Open: behind the movie starring Dame have worked with, along with tracks 9.30am - 3.30pm. Admission £1. Judi Dench and Bollywood star Ali from their joint albums, intertwined Ingatestone Community Centre, 7 Fazal. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, High with stories and memories from their High Street, Ingatestone, CM4 9ED Street, Colchester, CO1 1JH extensive touring careers in a show www.firstsite.uk not to be missed. Cramphorn Studio 27-Jan Chigwell Antiques & Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG Vintage & Collectors Fair SPECIAL EVENTS 01245 606505. There will be a huge selection of www.chelmsford.gov.uk Every Tuesday until 19 Feb items for sale covering antiques, Tuesday Tea & Toast vintage, retro and collectables. Everyone is back to the school 26-Jan Jackson Live in Concert Open: 9am - 4pm. early entry £3.50. run rush and work, so once you’ve ‘Jackson Live in Concert’ now Chigwell Hall, High Road dashed out of the door why not take features the hugely talented ‘CJ’ Chigwell, IG7 6BD five? The ‘Tuesday Tea and Toast’ recreating the Michael Jackson

Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 17-Jan The Classic Rock Show ‘The Classic Rock Show’ brings the original recordings back to life on stage; with a huge sound and light show to match. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk

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New for 2019

Opening in April 2019, the Heritage Farm will include a purpose-built barn, to provide an under-cover space for activities and displays for families, schools, adults and groups, as well as protection for a number of large objects in the museum collection. Additionally, the planting of an orchard, improvements to pathways and the expansion of the animal area to care for more heritage breeds make this a must-see for 2019.

StowBlues Saturday 8 June

23rd Festival of Beer & Brewing

Events at the

museum 2019

Thursday 4 - Sunday 7 July

Outdoor Cinema Friday 23 and Saturday 24 August

Cider and Song Friday 18 and Saturday 19 October

Bonfire Night Celebrations Saturday 2 November

Santa at Home

s Date

iary the d

Weekends 23 November - 22 December For details, plus more activities visit www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

for

Suffolk

Stowmarket 5 Reasons to Visit

Written by The Suffolk Spy Instagram @thesuffolkspy

lthough the largest town in mid-Suffolk, Stowmarket is often overlooked as an area to visit in the county. The Suffolk Spy shares her five reasons to visit the market town: Bella Art

1. The Regal Built in 1936, this cinema and theatre has been at the heart of Stowmarket for many years and is known for its relaxed atmosphere. Sit back and relax with your favourite tipple from the bar and enjoy one of the latest blockbusters or a wonderful theatre production in this charming institution.

2. Fitness EnsoFit, based in Stowupland, is a brand new personal training studio offering personal training and small group classes. The classes offered are slightly niche but currently very popular in the fitness industry including Animal Flow and MyZone HIIT. Classes can be booked on a pay as you go basis at www.ensoﬁt.co.uk. Taught from a converted garage in the heart of Stowmarket, Yoga with Imelda offers a variety of small group yoga classes within a private studio. Classes are £5 each and can be booked via www.yogawithimelda.com.

3. Mid Suffolk Light Railway Restored by enthusiasts, the museum and railway at Brockford Station has recreated a slice of Edwardian railway travel. Check the events programme, hop on board one of the steam trains and ride along Suffolk’s only standard gauge preserved railway. Entry is £10 for an adult or £4 for a child.

4. Finbows Yard, Bacton Full of independent local Suffolk businesses, it is easy to spend time meandering around Finbows Yard. Book an appointment and appreciate the wonderful artwork and home accessories by Suffolk artist, Lucy Dawson, at Bella Art’s Studio. If you’re feeling thirsty, call in at Heart of Suffolk Distillery and purchase some locally distilled premium gin or alternatively, join the team for one of their gin tasting evenings which can be booked online at www.heartofsuﬀolkdistillery.co.uk. Finish your visit by popping over the road to EmZo Café and then peruse the crafts, jewellery and furniture in the attached shop.

5. Eating out Food wise there is a great variety of options for eating out. Slightly hidden off the High Street but well worth the visit is Cabbages and Kings at the Mix, which serves up reasonably priced breakfasts with 100% of their profits being invested in delivering youth work. For a special occasion, head to The Buxhall Crown for a fantastic meal using fresh seasonal ingredients.

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Book your Perfect Suﬀolk Escape “Ideally located to explore Suﬀolk’s heritage coast”

4 Star Luxury Cottages and Studios & Caravan and Motorhome Club CL We supply a large range of high quality outdoor apparel and footwear, as well as a full range of branded hunting, ﬁshing and shooting equipment and accessories.

Mollett’s Farm, Main Road, Benhall, Saxmundham, Suﬀolk IP17 1JY Tel: +44 1728 604547 www.molletts.com bookings@molletts.com

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

Tel: 01394 385567 Fax: 01394 387757

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Minsmere It’s naturally fun for everyone!

Start exploring rspb.org.uk/discoverminsmere /RSPBSuffolk /RSPBMinsmere RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, Suffolk coast.

Nick Cunard (rspb-images.com). The RSPB is a registered charity in England & Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654 851-1392-15-16

A Pocket Guide to

Saxmundham

Written by Suzanne Archer

axmundham is a beautiful market town located in the heart of Suffolk. A bustling town with access via road and railway, it is a great place to visit, be it for a day trip or weekend getaway. It’s the perfect location for exploring rural Suffolk. Having once hosted the Suffolk Show, it is also the place to find out about times gone by in the county with its local museum. The museum works to record and preserve the history of the town and the IP17 area. Discover its past with an interactive media display featuring photos, videos and recordings. The town has a market every Wednesday so is a great place to stock up on the essentials and fresh local produce. The high street is full of independent stores so you can shop until you drop then refuel at a café such as Trinity’s at No.14. If you are looking for something more

substantial why not try The Bell Inn at Sax or have some of the best fish and chips around at Trawler’s Catch. Saxmundham is also close to RSPB Minsmere if you want to get out into the countryside and see some local wildlife. For fresh air, this is the place to go! If gardens are more your thing visit The Walled Garden just outside the town. This garden has been around since the 1800s and is beautifully laid out, full of sculptures and a lovely lily pond. It is definitely worth a visit, especially as it is combined with a nursery meaning that you can buy the plants that have inspired you. If you are looking for excitement and a bit of a challenge why not visit the Suffolk Escape Room? This Area 51 inspired space will have the intrepid UFO hunter in you breaking into the infamous area, where you will have one hour to crack it before the security override kicks in. You have to work as a team to figure out the clues. This is a great group activity as well as a challenge to the brain. With all this to do in Saxmundham, it is a must visit this year.

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Looking for quality care?

All Hallows has a 145 year history of providing the best possible care to the local community and offers a wide range of services, including:

Registered Charity No. 1124717

Nursing Home

Community Hospital

• 24 Hour Nursing Care

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OUR CORE SERVICES

• Personal Care • Befriending

• Meals on Wheels

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• Physiotherapy

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Daycare

Neurological Services • Neuro-rehabilitation

• Reduces Isolation & Loneliness

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To enquire about our services:

There are few parts of East Anglia where such an integrated service is available

• Long & Short Term Care

Call 01986 892728 Email info@all-hallows.org.uk Website www.all-hallows.org.uk

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

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Offering a warm welcome, with a menu which has a focus on local produce. Barista style coffee now available. We also cater for functions and events.

15A Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB Telephone 01502 714234

01284 748732 www.stedscathedral.org

What’s on: Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 7-10 Jan Film: Fantastic Beasts The Crimes of Grindelwald ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald’ sees the powerful dark wizard having escaped custody, and in the process of gathering his followers. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 15-Jan The Tragedy of King Richard the Second This visceral new production about the limits of power will be directed by Joe Hill Gibbins, whose previous plays include ‘Little Revolution at the Almeida’ and ‘Absolute Hell at the National Theatre’. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 17-Jan An Evening with Ipswich Town Football Club Legends The Ipswich Town legends return to Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds for another lively and unmissable evening of stories and anecdotes about the club and their careers. It welcomes ITFC’s Matt Holland to the theatre for the very first time. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 19-27 Jan The Lowestoft Players – Robin Hood 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 19-Jan The Empty Stage Rising star Carina Harris was murdered during an unscheduled rehearsal for an upcoming play. Now it’s up to the director of the show to determine which of his temperamental cast members is dramatic enough to be a killer! The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk

22-23 Jan Film: The Children Act ‘The Children Act’ tells the story of a judge who is asked to rule on the case of a young boy, suffering from cancer, whose parents won’t allow a blood transfusion. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 24-Jan Sick ‘Sick’ is a bittersweet, bizarre and highly entertaining hour-long one-woman show about the impact of four years of cuts to the National Health Service. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 25-Jan Lowestoft 1944 – The Turning of the Tide Local historians Chris Brooks and Bob Collis have again joined forces to deliver a fascinating insight into how the penultimate year of the war affected Lowestoft. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 19-26 Jan Aladdin An evil emperor rules over the people of China with a firm but outrageously silly rule and so a young lad must help the people of Xi’an dethrone him. Watch as Aladdin, a simple working boy, joins forces with the emperor’s most trusted advisor and a couple of wish granting marvels to take down the emperor. A magical night of intrigue, laughter and love is guaranteed for all. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 22-Jan The Queen of Spades Tchaikovsky’s most ambitious opera receives star treatment in Stefan Herheim’s staging, with a cast including Eva-Maria Westbroek, Felicity Palmer and Aleksandrs Antonenko. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill , CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 26-Jan Nish Kumar - It’s in Your

Nature To Destroy Yourselves There will be jokes about politics, mankind’s capacity for self-destruction, and if this will lead to the end of days. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 30 Jan - 6 Feb The Wisdom Club When Susanna tells her Mother she no longer wants her to look after the children, Megan can’t help but feel out of a job. If she’s not being a mother or a grandmother, then who and what is she? If retired brewery worker, Lenny knew his retirement was going to be so long he would have started another career. Ex hospital worker Rani is on a mission; the friends need to protest and step out of the shadows. They’re old but they’re not dead yet! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 31-Jan I’m Not Running Pauline Gibson has spent her life as a doctor, the inspiring leader of a local health campaign. When she crosses paths with her old boyfriend, a stalwart loyalist in Labour Party politics, she’s faced with an agonising decision. Live broadcast. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 31-Jan It’s a Knockout Learn about two vital areas of medical science: anaesthesia; past, present & future, together with oxygen therapy or hyperbaric medicine. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org MUSIC 11-Jan Los Pacaminos feat. Paul Young This is a tequila fuelled tex mex party night, as The Apex becomes the perfect cantina setting for a great night’s rocking with the cactus sharp, tequila filled, stetson wearing magnificent 7, Los Pacaminos! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

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New Year, New Sport

Situated in 120 acres of woodland and delightful countryside High Lodge offers a range of leisure activities, try a new sport this year. Something for all the family to enjoy, a perfect place to escape, relax and unwind.

Luxury Self-catering Accommodation in eight Converted Barns on a working Arable and Dairy Farm. We are situated in the beautiful peaceful rural Waveney Valley adjoining the southern tip of the Norfolk Broads. Many fantastic sandy beaches and attractions can be found a short distance from Wheatacre Hall Barns making this a great place to base your visit in your discovery of Norfolk and Suffolk. Facilities include, Games Barn, Fitness Barn, Soft Play Barn and Hot Tub and plenty of outdoor space for fun and games.

Clay Shooting | Footgolf | Archery | Golf Find out more

01986 784347 | www.highlodge.co.uk High Lodge Leisure Ltd

HighLodgeSS

High_Lodge_Leisure_Ltd

Contact Joanna Burroughs on 01502 677208 Wheatacre Hall Barns, Wheatacre, Beccles, NR34 0AS www.wheatacrehallbarns.co.uk

12-Jan Trianon - Diamonds are Forever A sparkling programme to start the New Year, with music from film and television and including two premieres to celebrate the beginning of Trianon’s Diamond Jubilee year. Grand Hall, The Corn Exchange, King St, Ipswich IP1 1DH. apps.ipswich.gov.uk 18-Jan Yesterday Once More – A Tribute to the Carpenters If you are an avid Carpenters fan, this is a show not to be missed! The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 18-Jan The Chicago Blues Brothers The show is a high-octane, adrenaline-pumping, musical mash-up which has jump-started the legacy of Jake and Elwood for a new generation with its modern twist on this cult classic and an energy and spirit that is impossible to resist. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 19-Jan The Searchers There is no doubt that the swinging 60s was a very special time and will go down in history as being the most imaginative period of music creativity and expression. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 24-Jan The Simon & Garfunkel Story Using huge projection photos and original film footage, this show features a full live band. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 26-Jan An Evening with Dolly Parton & Glen Campbell This foot stomping, clap-along, interactive show is guaranteed to enthrall the audience from start to finish. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 26-Jan Alden Patterson & Dashwood Norwich based folk trio Alden Patterson and Dashwood weave rich vocal harmonies, fiddle, dobro and

guitar around beautifully written original songs and melodies. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 29 Jan Ramin Karimloo: From Now On Ramin’s unique style of revisiting celebrated songs from musical theatre in a sublime folk style has won him an army of fans around the world. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk ARTS & CULTURE 7-11 Jan Exploring and Painting Winter Gardens A fantastic opportunity to explore some of the best public gardens around Suffolk and Essex through drawing and painting en plein air and back at the Flatford studio. FSC Flatford Mill, East Bergholt, CO7 6UL. 01206 297110 9-Jan Curator’s Introduction to Women 100 To mark the 100-year anniversary of the Representation of the People Act, which first gave women of property over 30 the right to vote, the gallery are showing 100 artworks by women from the Ipswich collections. Ipswich Art Gallery, 1 Upper High Street, Ipswich, IP1 3NE. 01473 433681. 15 Jan - 24 Feb Royal Photographic Society The RPS’s Nature Group will present a variety of subjects that represent members’ interests, including animals, flowers and landscapes. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 16-Jan Art Classes in Bury St Edmunds During this afternoon demonstration artist/tutor Eddie Goodridge, will give you an insight into how to approach oil painting. Town Centre, Bury St. Edmunds. 07824637174. lilaccottagestudio.com 17-Jan Surrealism Looking at the huge importance of the female psyche in the Surrealist movement and a great number of high-achieving women artists who

were both muses and highly imaginative innovators, such as Leonora Carrington, Remedios Varo, Dora Maar and Frida Kahlo. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 18-Jan 2019 Festival Preview Roger Wright and Dan Whitfield present a preview of the 72nd Aldeburgh Festival this summer (7–23 June). The Quay Gallery, Next to the River Alde, Snape Maltings, Snape, IP17 1SP. snapemaltings.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 6-Jan The Apex Wedding Fair A spacious and modern setting in which you can chat with wedding experts about your plans for the day, grab some lunch at the cafe, listen to live music, see demonstrations, enter exclusive competitions and get inspired! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 8, 15, 22 & 29 Jan Tuesday Winter Wildlife Wander Discover what makes Minsmere such a special place to visit in winter as the guides show you some of the wildlife and historical highlights. RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve, Westleton, Saxmundham, IP17 3BY. 01728 648301 ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 6-Jan Suffolk The Famous Copdock Antiques & Collectors Fair Dealers from Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and beyond will be selling a wide range of fascinating items. Admission £2. Seniors & Students £1.50. Accompanied Children under 14 admitted free. The Best Wesern Ipswich Hotel (Formerly the Cameo), Old Ipswich Road, Copdock, IP8 3JD 26-27 Jan Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair A monthly two-day antiques and vintage fair featuring 50 tables selling antiques, jewellery, ceramics, collectables, militaria, vintage clothing etc. Entry £1. Open 9.3oam - 4pm. The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX

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OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from

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nother New Year, another New Year’s resolution. But maybe this year you can make your resolution one that helps our planet and your health? As Veganuary gets underway, why not give a plant-based diet a try this January with a little help from your eastlife friends… January 2019 marks my one year veganniversary (yes that is a word!), and what a year its been. Yes, I miss cheese and yes, eating out can be tricky. Despite this though, I can honestly say this was one of the best choices I’ve ever made. Once you’ve got your head around the ins and outs, the dos and don’ts and the what’s and what nots, it becomes an eye opening experience. You quickly learn to find the accidentally vegan treats (like hobnobs and oreos), good places to eat and where to avoid. To help get you started, I’ve put together just a few of my favourite places for Vegan food in Norwich… 1) Timberhill Bakery – Great for breakfast, lunch or just a coffee with friends. Plus all their cakes are vegan! www.timberhillbakery.com 2) River Green Café – Great for Sunday roasts or a special meal out. www.rivergreencafe.co.uk 3) The Tipsy Vegan – Great for comfort vegan food and cocktails! www.thetipsyvegan.co.uk

4) Ancestors – Great for coffee and cake, breakfast and lunch. www.instagram.com/ancestorscoffee 5) Tofeuri – Great to grab lunch or cake on the go! www.tofurei.co.uk Finally, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Little Shop of Vegans (www.littleshopofvegans.com) on Magdalen Street, Norwich. Stocking only vegan products this is a great place to go to stock up on vegan replacements for foods you might miss – think chocolate, cheese, cream, meat alternatives and even marshmallows! Join our Vegetarian and Vegan Facebook Group… When it comes to making big dietary changes, support from others goes a long way. From understanding your choices to sharing recipes and recommending the best places to eat, these pointers go a long way in helping you succeed. Come join our Facebook group today and help spread the plant-based love across East Anglia: www.facebook.com/groups/Veggieandvegan

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What’s on: Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 12 Dec - 13 Jan Aladdin The show is set in the Far East and promises dazzling costumes, a stunning set, mischievous fun, and entertainment for all the family. Book now. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 10-13 Jan Cinderella This classic panto is sure to delight audiences young and old with all the traditional ingredients of song, dance and comedy, mixed together with the age old story of rags to riches known the world over. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-onSea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832 gorlestonpavilion.ticketsolve.com

much confusion! Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 22-26 Jan Guys & Dolls With some of the best show tunes ever, including Luck Be a Lady Tonight, Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat and I’ve Never Been In Love Before, it’s a sure bet that you will leave the theatre with a smile on your face and a song in your heart. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

22-Jan ROH Live Screening – The Queen Of Spades The penniless soldier Gherman has fallen in love with Liza, even though she is engaged to his friend Yeletsky. 10-Jan Comedy Club Gherman learns that Liza’s guardian The winning format of four comedithe Countess knows a winning threeans in a relaxed cabaret setting, and card formula. Gherman determines to value for money ticket price mean wrest the secret from the Countess, that the comedy clubs regularly sell gain a fortune through gambling and out. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, marry Liza. Sheringham Little Theatre, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 16-Jan Sick 24-Jan Antony & Cleopatra - NTL ‘Sick’ is a bittersweet, bizarre Broadcast live from the National and highly entertaining hour-long Theatre, Ralph Fiennes and Sophie one-woman show about the impact Okonedo play Shakespeare’s famous of four years of cuts to the National fated couple in his great tragedy of Health Service. Norwich Arts Centre, politics, passion and power. Princess St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 norwichartscentre.co.uk www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 16-Jan Jim Davidson 24-Jan The Chicago Blues The people’s favourite and one of Brothers Britain’s greatest ever comedians, The show is a high-octane, adrenJim Davidson OBE telling it ‘like it is’. aline-pumping musical mash-up King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday which has jump started the legaMarket Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW cy of Jake and Elwood for a new 01553 764864 generation with its modern twist on www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk this cult classic and an energy and spirit that is impossible to resist. 17-18 Jan Jason Manford: Muddle King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Class Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 ‘Muddle Class’ promises to feature a 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingswealth of new material about Jason lynncornexchange.co.uk growing up ‘working class’ then find ing, over the years, that part of him 26-Jan OMG has become ‘middle class’ - causing Be prepared to have your mind

truly blown. An evening that you will never forget. Magic performed live - no camera tricks, no stooges just mind-melting magic of the highest order from Magic Circle Magician, Sean Goodman. Norwich Puppet Theatre, St James, Whitefriars, Norwich, NR3 1TN. 01603 629921 www.puppettheatre.co.uk 26-Jan Intellectual Hooligans The show will consist of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” style games based entirely on audience suggestions. Anything goes (and we mean anything!) Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 29 Jan - 2 Feb RSC Romeo & Juliet Ripped apart by the bitter divisions of their parents, two young people will risk everything to be together. The most famous story of love at first sight explodes with intense passion and an irresistible desire for change. Will this spark a revolution, or will division continue to tear through generations? Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 30-Jan ROH Live Screening – La Traviata Richard Eyre’s stunning production of Verdi’s best-loved opera returns with star sopranos Ermonela Jaho and Angel Blue as Violetta; the casts also include Plácido Domingo and Charles Castronovo. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 31-Jan NT Live: I’m Not Running When doctor Pauline Gibson crosses paths with her old boyfriend, a stalwart loyalist in Labour Party politics, she’s faced with an agonising decision. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 31-Jan Edit your life with Anna Newton and Erica Davies

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live with Shazad Ismaily and Julian Sartorius making the trio. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk ARTS & CULTURE 1 Dec - 27 Jan Mechanical Circus This entertaining exhibition marks the end of our Circus 250 celebrations. Featuring beautiful mechanical sculp MUSIC ture, physics games and puzzles there 8-Jan A Vision of Elvis will never be a dull moment! The On the very day that would have Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, been The King’s 84th birthday, join NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 Rob Kingsley in this outstanding tribwww.theforumnorwich.co.uk ute to Elvis Presley. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street , Norwich, Until 21 April Ken Kiff: NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 The Sequence www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk This show focuses on selected works from the artist’s seminal series ‘The 12-Jan A Band Called Malice Sequence’. Begun in the 1970s Rapidly becoming the UK’s most and regarded by Kiff as a single popular tribute to The Jam, you are work, ‘The Sequence’ was an ongoguaranteed to be taken right back ing series of vivid paintings on paper to the late 70s/early 80s as the band that explored a consistent set of recreates hit after hit of The Jam, themes and images. Sainsbury Centre one of the most influential and iconic for Visual Arts, UEA, Norwich, bands in music history. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich NR4 7TJ. scva.ac.uk NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 12 Jan - 6 Feb Printmakers norwichartscentre.co.uk A selection of works in print from the gallery’s many exceptional printmak18-Jan Gameplan ers. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, A five-piece indie rock band from Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312. Norwich. Gameplan have recently www.birchamgallery.co.uk/exhibitions been enjoying playing the London circuit, headlining venues such as the 28-31 Jan The Palka Diaries O2 Academy, as well as supporting The installation centres on a wooden Toploader at the Islington Assembly shed which could be a sentry box, a Hall. Now they’re looking to make a shelter or a shrine. The shed contains statement on the Norwich scene with a refugee’s suitcase filled with bark their own material, bringing that live collected by the Norfolk Polish Hermusic buzz to the fine city. Norwich itage Group in Siberia and a video of Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, the butterflies they collected there. Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 The Forum, Millennium Plain, norwichartscentre.co.uk Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. palkadiaries.com 25-Jan Voodoo Room This show is beyond any tribute, its a SPECIAL EVENTS celebration of pure power trio class!! 12-Jan Macrame Workshop So don’t miss the opportunity to exIn this two hour workshop you’ll learn perience the thrill of this musical ride two basic knots before picking your as it was back then. Maddermarket favourite to make your own hanging Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, Macrame pot holder. There will be NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 a range of coloured cord, as well as www.maddermarket.co.uk tradition neutrals for you to choose from. Your Macrame will be com29-Jan Gyða Valtýsdottir pletely personalised and unique to Jan/Feb 2019 dates throughout the you. Urban Jungle, Ringland Lane, UK will finally give Gyda the opportuOld Costessey, Norwich, NR8 5BG nity to more widely expose her 2018 www.urbanjungle.uk.com figureight release Epicycle project Come to Jarrolds on Thursday 31st Jan at 7pm, enjoy a Norfolk Gin cocktail and hear from Anna and Erica how you can live your best life. There will be Q&A and you’ll have your book signed by Anna and meet Erica. Benji’s Restaurant, floor 1, Jarrolds, Norwich. 01603 660661. www.jarrold.co.uk

13-Jan King’s Lynn Wedding Fair Over 40 top wedding suppliers who have everything a couple needs to help plan their special day, all in the historic venue. Free entry and free goody bag for the first 150 Brides! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 19-Jan Riverford Organic Produce Day A seasonal, 100% organic Riverford veg box, fresh from the farm, will inspire you in the kitchen and make you feel good. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF 01603 727950. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 19-20 Jan Festival of swans at WWT Welney Wetland Centre Enjoy a weekend of swan related activities including walks, talks and trails. Hundred Foot Bank, Welney, Wisbech, PE14 9TN. 01353 860711 27-Jan Norfolk Holiday & Cruise Show Come and meet top holiday and cruise companies, find out about special offers and join the prize draw for your chance to win exciting prizes including a London theatre break, holiday vouchers and much more! The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk ANTIQUES & AUCTIONS 12-Jan The Fleamarket Offering a wide and varied range of collectables including old favourites such as postcards, ephemera, coins, badges, books, records and classic toys. There are also traditional small antiques and for the intrepid bargain hunter there is always plenty of bric-a brac to enjoy sifting through. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 26-Jan Antiques, Books & Vintage Browse the collections and see if you can find the one-off piece you’ve been looking for. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk

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Celebrations Magazine (May 2017).qxd

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y day you’ll find these two Hertfordshire towns busy with residents, workers and parents with young children, strolling the cobbled streets while shopping and relaxing at one of the many coffee shops; a quaint market town scene. By night the bars, pubs and restaurants are an attraction for locals and residents of surrounding towns, providing a lively and sophisticated social scene, not too dissimilar to a city location. Add to this fantastic transport links and good schools and it’s no wonder house prices continue to soar in this part of Hertfordshire.

Whether you’re planning a visit or perhaps thinking of relocating, here’s everything you need to know:

Hertford The river, rustic listed buildings steeped in heritage, shops and cafes, make the town a popular place to live and visit. Hertford’s weekly market takes place every Saturday, while the farmers’ market is held on the second Saturday of every month. Visitors should stop by Hertford Castle, which host regular exhibitions and events. Art lovers will adore Hertford’s choice of galleries. Courtyard Arts is a small but lively community arts centre on Port Vale. It offers term time art and clay classes for adults and children alongside a vibrant programme of changing exhibitions. It also has artists’ studios, a small

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cafe and a gift shop show-casing work by local artists. In addition to the gallery at the Centre, Courtyard also curates the gallery at Hertford Theatre. If you fancy an evening of entertainment check out the theatre’s website for a full programme of productions which include drama, musicals, comedy, dance and more throughout the year.

Ware Ware combines a delightful mix of heritage and modernisation with its busy high street full of old world charm. Some of the timber framed buildings that stand along Crib Street have been restored since the 1970s as part of an ongoing project to keep the town true to its history. You’ll find a number of independent boutiques and high street stores. Ware’s main attraction is Ware Museum, which takes visitors back in time to the ghostly goings on in the town, and it’s lido, park and river during summer months. Surrounded by gorgeous countryside, it’s no surprise that Ware is home to a number of wedding venues. Ware Priory is a highly sought after wedding destination. Situated within seven acres of picturesque riverside gardens, this Grade I listed building is a monument of historical interest, carefully restored to be a beautiful event venue, perfect for weddings and celebrations. Both towns are ideal places for a day trip, located off the A10 and close to the M11. There are beautiful spots by

Beds, Bucks, Herts

the River Lea, which passes through the towns, to sit, eat a picnic and take in the peaceful scenery, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget your flask and blanket for those sunny days.

Dates for your diary Hertford and Ware both have a great community spirit and host regular events for residents and beyond. Here are 2019 dates to look forward to:

Open air cinema, 23-24 August It may be a little way off but we highly advise you book tickets as soon as possible as this is bound to be a sell-out. This summer Hertford Castle will be showing screenings of Mamma Mia (23 Aug) and Grease (24 Aug). With the castle as backdrop, pack your picnic, blanket and enjoy a movie under the stars. Tickets will be on sale from March.

Hertford Arts Trail, 6 April â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 May The centre piece of the annual Hertford Arts Festival, the trail is a great opportunity to view work from local talent. For one month there will be pop up exhibitions at a number of venues across Hertford including retailers, bars and cafes. www.courtyardarts.org.uk/news/hertford-art-trail-2019

Hertford Castle Craft Market & Open Day Part of the Hertford Arts Festival Sunday 5 May, 12pm-4pm To mark the end of the Hertford Arts Festival, Hertford Castle will open its doors to the public. Visitors are welcome to explore the Castle Gatehouse and grounds free of charge. Up to 70 craft stands will exhibit an array of handmade assortments from jewellery to homeware, homemade produce to vintage clothing. There will be live music throughout the day.

Cars at the Castle, 23 June, 12pm-4pm One for all motoring enthusiasts! The castle lawn will be displaying a fantastic collection of up to 100 classic and modern cars.

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What’s on: Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 5 Dec - 5 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk A lavish spectacle with live musicians on stage, stunning sets and costumes, song, dance and slapstick, performed straight from the heart by a talented company of new faces and Palace favourites. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 16-20 Jan Aladdin The traditonal panto presents the classic rags to riches tale of Aladdin and his magic lamp. Join a cast of colourful characters in this family friendly show. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 17-Jan Lee Nelson: Serious Joker You’ve seen him sneaking into places he shouldn’t be, now come and see him where he most definitely should be: live on stage for a special performance of his sensational Serious Joker stand-up show. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 19-Jan Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest Showman Cheer on Hugh Jackman, lust after Zac Efron and hiss Rebecca Ferguson as you experience ‘The Greatest Showman’ in the greatest way possible - with lyrics on the screen so you can join in as loud as you want. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 21-Jan Blue Monday A combination of post – Christmas blues, cold dark nights and the arrival of unpaid credit card bills … yes, it’s the third Monday of the year! Bedford Poetry Company present their own original poems to share the gloom and lift the spirits! Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk

22-25 Jan Market Boy “It’s 1985 and anything is possible.” ‘Market Boy’ is a lively coming of age comedy. The weird and wonderful characters burst onto stage to an 80s soundtrack, Margaret Thatcher drops in to buy a pair of shoes, and The Boys meets The Girl. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk 23-26 Jan Girl on the Train Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ novel – an international phenomenon selling over twenty million copies worldwide – and starring Samantha Womack and Oliver Farnworth, this gripping new play will keep you guessing until the final moment. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 24-Jan Spirit of the Dance - 20th Anniversary Tour Irish in origin and bursting with raw energy, this explosive and powerful show combines heart-pounding Irish Dance with the sensual Latino rhythms of Flamenco and Red Hot Salsa in a thrilling production of strength and passion. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 25-Jan La Bayadère ‘La Bayadère’ is one of the greatest works classical ballet history – a story of love, death and vengeful judgement set in India. A must-see! Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 25-Jan Pound for Pound: The Live Show 2019 Join award-winning actor star Jake Wood and his best mate, ex European Super Bantamweight Champion Spencer Oliver as they come live to a stage near you with ‘Pound For Pound: The Live Show’, developed from their hit chart-topping podcast. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500

www.hertfordtheatre.com 26-Jan Morgan & West: Parlour Tricks The dashing chaps offer up a plateful of illusion and impossibility, all served with wit, charm and no small amount of panache. Be sure to wear a hat – Morgan & West might just blow your mind! Broadway Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3DD. 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com 27-Jan Dan Snow - An Evening With The History Guy ‘Dan Snow - An Evening With The History Guy’ will feature the wellknown historian and TV presenter recount anecdotes of memorable experiences from his very successful career as a historian and broadcaster. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 29 Jan - 2 Feb Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake Thrilling, audacious, witty and emotive, this Swan Lake is perhaps still best known for replacing the female corps-de-ballet with a menacing male ensemble, which shattered conventions, turned tradition upside down and took the dance world by storm. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 30-Jan Andrew Doyle: Friendly Fire Andrew Doyle is one of the UK’s foremost political satirists. ‘Friendly Fire’ is his seventh solo stand-up show. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 31 Jan - 2 Feb Good Dog ‘Good Dog’– set during the early noughties – tells the story of growing up in a multicultural community, and the everyday injustices that drive people to take back control. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455

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20-Jan Ultimate Buble www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Mark’s mesmerising likeness to the modern day Canadian crooner will 31-Jan I’m Not Running have fans of Michael Bublé and big ‘I’m Not Running’ is an explosive new band music dancing at the tables play by David Hare, premiering at after enjoying their Sunday lunch! the National Theatre and broadcast Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth live to cinemas. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN 571102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 20-Jan Someone Like You - The Adele Songbook 31-Jan Carl Hutchinson: I Know I A stunning live concert performance, Shouldn’t Behave Like This... Geordie comedian Carl Hutchinson is celebrating the music of one of our generations finest singer-songwritback with a brand new show. From ers. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, buying a house to having kids, Carl takes his unique adolescent approach Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 to grown up issues. The Stables, www.atgtickets.com Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 30-Jan Hello Again…The Story of Neil Diamond MUSIC Evocative imagery, video and 13-Jan The Little Mix Experience narration enhance the magic, as the Four hugely talented girls pay tribute show takes you on a musical journey to the UK’s finest girl-band with through Neil Diamond’s glittering 50 breath-taking dance moves, replica year career. Watford Colosseum, costumes and some of the finest Rickmansworth Road, Watford, vocals in the UK. Aylesbury Waterside WD17 3JN. 01923 571102. Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 31-Jan Money For Nothing A tribute to the Dire Straits like no 16-Jan Some Guys Have All the Luck other before. Prepare to be captivat- The Rod Stewart Story ed by the authentic sounds of one Frontman Paul Metcalfe is incredible of the most successful rock bands of as Rod and captures all the exciteall time. The Gordon Craig Theatre, ment, energy and charisma of the Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. legendary performer. Milton Keynes 01438 363200. Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton www.gordon-craig.co.uk Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com ARTS & CULTURE 1 Dec - 3 Mar Game Plan 17-Jan The Rolling Stones Story Come and see some of the most A high energy concert celebrating iconic, enthralling and visually striking the music of the world’s greatest rock games from the V&A’s outstanding ‘n’ roll band. Milton Keynes Theatre, national collection of board games. Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, Alongside current family favourites MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 the exhibition will look at historical www.atgtickets.com board games including The Game of the Goose and other beautifully 18-Jan Simply reRed: Holding Back designed games from the 18th and The Years 19th centuries. St Albans Museum The exceptional nine-piece band + Gallery, Market Place, St Peter’s recreates every slick groove and Street, St Albans, AL3 5DJ perfect melody from Mick Huckwww.stalbansmuseums.org.uk nall’s remarkable global career in an unparalleled display of authenticity 3 Jan - 8 Feb Colour Snap and style, guaranteed to keep the This group exhibition showcases audience dancing and singing all moving image and installation work night. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, by artists such as Jacob Dahlgren and Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 Rhys Coren. Art and Design Gallery, 280800. www.stables.org

University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield. 01707 281127 7 Jan - 2 Feb Members’ Show First show of the new year highlights the talents of the gallery’s artists. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS Until 13 Jan The Big Skate Get your skates on this Christmas at Watford’s very own real ice rink! The Parade, Watford www.watfordbigevents.co.uk 1-Jan Historic Hertford Guided Walk Join this guided walk in Salisbury Square looking back at the history of Hertford. Starts at 11am, priced £6. Hertford Town Centre 10-Jan Puddingstone Distillery Tour Evenings Join Distillery Founders, Ben & Kate Marston, who will present an insight into the history of gin, Puddingstone Distillery and how Campfire Gin is made. The tour begins at 8pm and ends at 10pm. Unit 1, Artisan Workshops, P E Mead & Sons Farm Shop, Lower Icknield Way, Wilstone, Tring, HP23 4NT. 01442 502 033 www.puddingstonedistillery.com ANTIQUES & AUCTIONS 13-Jan Woburn Antiques and Collectors Fair The fair welcomes new sellers to join its regulars who offer a wide range of quality items. Woburn Village Hall, Crawley Road, Woburn, MK17 9QD 20-Jan Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair Over 45 stalls of just about every type of antique you can think of. Open: 9.30am - 4pm. Admission £2. Entry is free for children under 16. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH 27-Jan Ampthill Antiques and Vintage Fair 32 stalls selling china, books, furniture, clothing, etc. Entry £1. Open: 9am3.30pm. Parkside Hall, Woburn Street, Ampthill, MK45 2HX. 01234 345082

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Cambridgeshire

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Written by Victoria Magnall Twitter: @victoriamagnall Instagram: @victorias_social_scene Blog: victoriamagnall.wordpress.com

ow that the last of the mince pies have been eaten and the country is on an annual detox, you may be looking for something to spice up your new year. Thankfully, there is just SO much on our Cambridge doorstep that there is no excuse to hibernate this January!

As Oscar season is approaching, why not visit some of our famed cinematic locations? Great Court at Trinity College can be seen in the Academy Award winning film, ‘Chariots of Fire’. Scenes of Nigel Havers speeding across the Great Court cobbles have inspired many a re-enactment! To add to the occasion, you may wish to watch the British masterpiece again before visiting. We host one of the world’s most beautiful libraries and the best bit is that it is open to the public. Wren Library, designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1676, has some of the most important works of literature and rare manuscripts on its shelves. Why not write some pages of your inner novel within the walls of this magnificent building, or failing that, savour a quiet read in this stunning sanctuary. The cloisters at St John’s College is often referred to as a Harry Potter walkway, flooding with light and with terrific acoustics. It was recently seen on screen in ‘A Theory of Everything’ with Eddie Redmayne, playing the leading role of Professor Stephen Hawking. St John’s College also played the backdrop to the film’s beautiful May Ball. Visit @stjohnscam on Instagram for some truly lovely images of the college, grounds and students. The Bridge of Sighs and Kitchen Bridge are also seen in the Oscar winning film when the lead actors are spinning

and dancing on the banks on the River Cam. A still now captured on postcards sold around the city shows the two historical landmarks which make up a collection of 25 bridges, each with their own story and charm. The imposing Fitzwilliam Museum is the place to ensure a cultural fix and this January you can indulge in the works of Rosseti, Ruskin and Orpen. If that isn’t enough you can also take in an exhibition by James McNeill Whistler. What a place to while away a January afternoon... and all you have spent is your time!

Victoria’s Top Tip 102 Things To Do In Winter by Alex Quick With a young family, reference books that I can dip in to are still firm favourites and this is a gem of a find! Packed full of cosy ideas to enjoy as a family will ensure that your New Year is joyous. Flicking through the pages, what to plan first? Attend a pantomime, fry an ice cream or go snow tubing?! Alex Quick’s ‘102 Things To Do In Winter’ has captured the essence of winter in this easy read, one to buy now and enjoy throughout the winter months!

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Tracy Borman â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Old Scarlettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Tours A Merrie Tudor Evening Commemoration Service At Home with the Tudors

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hristmas may be over but Peterborough shows no sign of slowing down its social calendar. This year the city has many great reasons to visit. Its shopping centres, dining scene and magnificent cathedral may be top of visitors’ lists, but a special event can be a great excuse for planning a weekend away - or an added bonus to an existing break. Peterborough has events taking place throughout the year so there’s never a dull moment. Get your diary ready and plan your next trip with one of these fun-filled days out: Katharine of Aragon Festival, 25-27 January The year begins with Peterborough Cathedral and Vivacity Peterborough Tudor theme festival, which marks the date in January 1536 when King Henry VIII’s first wife was buried at Peterborough Abbey, following her death in exile at Kimbolton Castle. She rests at the Cathedral to this day! The festival features a busy line up of interesting talks, tours, services, crafts and period entertainment. For more details visit www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or www.vivacity-peterborough.com

Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night at Peterborough Cathedral, 13-15 February One of Shakespeare’s best loved comedies, Twelfth Night, is to be staged at Peterborough Cathedral by Gearbox Theatre Company. This talented new theatre company is combining the Cathedral’s stunning Norman architecture, a sixties skiffle band and Shakespeare’s poetic language, to bring this colourful production to life. Tickets, from £11 - £25, are now on sale via www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/twelfthnight

Peterborough Fake Festival, 25 May Calling all wannabe rock stars! Enjoy a day of live music with spine-tingling performances performed by the festivals ‘fake bands’. This year’s line-up includes talented artists performing tributes to Pink, Oasis, Kings of Leon, Gun & Roses and more. It’s not to be missed! Adult ticket from £25, child aged 10-17 from £17.50. www.fakefestivals.co.uk/2019/Peterborough.html

Peterborough Dragon Boat Race, 8 June One of the most popular annual events in Peterborough, join the crowds on the river banks and cheer on the crews as they challenge each other in a 200m race. It’s a great family day out with additional entertainment. Why not enter yourself and get into the team spirit? You’ll need up to 10 team members. www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk

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What’s on: Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 8-12 Jan Little Women A timeless and captivating story, is brought to life in this glorious musical. ADC Theatre, Park St, Cambridge CB5 8AS. www.corpusplayroom.com 8-12 Jan Crimes Against Christmas ‘Crimes Against Christmas’ is a good old-fashioned, grown-up antidote to the traditional family pantomime. ADC Theatre, Park St, Cambridge CB5 8AS. www.corpusplayroom.com 11-12 Jan X Billions of miles from home, the lone research base on Pluto has lost contact with Earth. Unable to leave or send for help, the skeleton crew sit waiting…waiting…waiting long enough for time to start eating away at them. To lose all sense of it. To start seeing things in the dark outside. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT . 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 15-Jan The Tragedy of King Richard the Second Richard II, King of England, is irresponsible, foolish and vain. His weak leadership sends his kingdom into disarray and his court into uproar. Seeing no other option but to seize power, the ambitious Bolingbroke challenges the throne and the king’s divine right to rule. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 16-19 Jan My Fair Lady Fall in love all over again with England’s favourite flower girl in this fresh, memorable production of the classic musical ‘My Fair Lady’, by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 18-Jan Sam Avery: the Learner Parent Stand-up comedian, viral blogger and bestselling author Sam Avery (aka the Learner Parent) started his award-winning blog when his twin boys were

born. A million nappies, Peppa Pig episodes and a head-full of hair loss later, he shares all the lows, highs and hilarious in-betweens of his experiences of first-time parenthood. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 18-19 Jan A Clockwork Orange A study in free will, behavioural conditioning and the state, it follows the fortunes of young Alex and his droogs, with a bit of the Ultraviolence and the old in-out in-out. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 22-Jan The Queen of Spades In Tchaikovsky’s intense opera of obsession and the supernatural, Gherman is caught between the woman he loves and a destructive fixation. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 22-26 Jan The Fenland Screamers & Other Boggy Tales They were invited to see out the Old Year – but would they ever see in the New? Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 27-Jan Nish Kumar: It’s In Your Nature to Destroy Yourselves There will be jokes about politics, mankind’s capacity for self-destruction and whether it will lead to the end of days. Good fun stuff. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 28-Jan Dirty Dusting A chance wrong number, gives three cleaning ladies, a great idea ‘Why not run a sex chat line?’ after all, their age and appearance won’t matter on the phone and providing they can keep this a secret from their boss, they could be on to a winner. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239

www.vivacity-peterborough.com 28-Jan Sir Ranulph Fiennes: Living Dangerously Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ many endeavours have pushed his endurance levels to the very limits, inspiring generations and making him a pioneer of exploration with an unparalleled story to tell. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 29-Jan Circus of Horrors: Psycho Asylum The Circus of Horrors is back with a bang & a brand new show, ‘Psycho Asylum’ which includes an amazing amalgamation of acts, driven by a rock’n’roll sound scape. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 29-Jan Stephen K Amos: Bouquet and Brickbats Forget everything that’s going on in the world and immerse yourself in the warmth of “one of the most likable figures in British Comedy“ - Radio Times. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 30-Jan La Traviata From the thrill of unexpected romance to a heartbreaking reconciliation that comes too late – Verdi’s La traviata is one of the most popular of all operas. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 30-Jan Ken Cheng: Best Dad Ever Dave Joke of the Fringe Winner, Cambridge mathematics dropout and professional poker player Ken Cheng embarks on his UK-wide tour following a sold-out, award nominated run at the Edinburgh Festival. The Junction, Clifton Way , Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 31-Jan I’m Not Running Pauline Gibson has spent her life as a doctor, the inspiring leader of a local

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It’s PANTO time! at the Burgess Hall 9th - 13th January Tickets from £8

Anthem: Ultimate Queen Friday 22nd February Tickets from £21

An enchanting evening Carpenters Gold Friday 29th March Tickets £22

9 - 13 January 30 January 2 February 8 & 9 February 17 February 22 February 25 February 27 February 9 March 22 March 24 March 25 March 27 March 28 March 29 March

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Burgess Bingo Boogie Nite 1940s Weekend Indoor Car Boot Anthem: Ultimate Queen Tea Dance Burgess Bingo Boogie Nite Reggae Party feat. Aswad Indoor Car Boot Tea Dance Burgess Bingo The Dreamboys Carpenters Gold

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the ultimate tribute to Neil Diamond health campaign. When she crosses featuring Gary Ryan, as seen paths with her old boyfriend, a on Stars in Their Eyes. Cambridge stalwart loyalist in Labour Party polCorn Exchange, Wheeler Street, itics, she’s faced with an agonising Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 decision. Key Theatre, Embankment 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. 27-Jan East Anglia Chamber www.vivacity-peterborough.com Orchestra MUSIC The region’s premier chamber orchestra returns to Cambridge with 11-Jan The Fiver a delightful programme, under the A longstanding Cambridge Junction direction of conductor Jacques Coevent offering emerging bands the hen. David Cohen joins them to play opportunity to play on the J1 stage. the wonderful 1st cello concerto by The Junction, Clifton Way, CamShostakovich. West Road Concert bridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 0845 196 www.junction.co.uk 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 19-Jan Megson 28-Jan The East Pointers The husband & wife duo bring an There’s a reason, beyond their infectious mix of heavenly vocals, dazzling musicianship and wildly lush harmonies and driving rhythmic entertaining live shows, that The guitars. The Junction, Clifton Way, East Pointers have connected with Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 audiences right across the globe, 511511. www.junction.co.uk making new, original roots music the hippest, most vibrant thing going. 20-Jan New Europe Society Chopin The Junction, Clifton Way, CamSeries bridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 Gülsin Onay’s truly international cawww.junction.co.uk reer has spanned over 55 countries across all continents. She has re31-Jan Creedence Clearwater corded 20 albums that illustrate the Reimagined breadth of her repertoire as well as ‘Creedence Clearwater Reimaher interpretive power. West Road gined’ is celebration of the music Concert Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. of this hugely influential band. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk Using original vintage gear and authentic costumes, this high 21-Jan The Classic Rock Show energy show faithfully recreates the Anthem after anthem, riff after riff, true sound and feel of CCR in the solo after solo, ‘The Classic Rock height of their fame. Key Theatre, Show’ brings the original recordings Embankment Road, Peterborough, back to life on stage; with a huge PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 sound and light show to match. www.vivacity-peterborough.com Culminating in a show-stopping gui tar duel that is definitely not to be ARTS & CULTURE missed. Cambridge Corn Exchange, 5-13 Jan East Cambridgeshire Wheeler Street, Cambridge, Schools Art Competition 2019 CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 Five categories for young people www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk aged 4—18yrs. Prizes are sponsored by Tindalls and other local shops 24-Jan Luther - A Celebration and businesses. Babylon Gallery, Fronted by international Luther Waterside, Ely, CB7 4AU. 01353 Vandross tribute Harry Cambridge 616991. www.babylonarts.org.uk and his 10 piece band. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, 8 Jan - 17 Mar Whistler & Nature Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 Whistler & Nature casts a new light 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk on the work of the great late-Victo rian master, James McNeill Whistler; 25-Jan Sweet Caroline: The Ultian artist with a bold personality and mate Tribute to Neil Diamond a revolutionary attitude towards The good times never seemed so the natural world. The Fitzwilliam good…introducing Sweet Caroline,

Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 22 Jan - 5 May Enriching Collections: Recent acquisitions of prints and drawings 20092019 This exhibition is the first of two successive selections of works on paper to celebrate the outstanding generosity of benefactors and donors who have helped to enrich the collections. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge , CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 22 Jan - 24 Mar Artist Rooms: Louise Bourgeois The selection of work at Kettle’s Yard includes sculptures, prints and drawings, reflecting different periods in Bourgeois’ life, and is drawn from the Artist Rooms collection. Kettle’s Yard, University of Cambridge, Castle Street, Cambridge, CB3 0AQ. 01223 748 100. www.kettlesyard.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 12-Jan Winter Wildlife Safari A walk around the reserve with a Ranger, finishing the walk at the Visitor Centre to (hopefully) watch the Hen Harriers coming into roost over the Sedge Fen at sunset. Includes hot drink. Tickets £8. Wicken Fen Nature Reserve. www.nationaltrust. org.uk/wicken-fen-nature-reserve 17-Jan Wine & Cheese Tasting Cheese is often considered the perfect partner to wine, but it’s not always that easy. Often white wine works just as well as red and you can find out why and taste seven wines matching them with seven top quality cheeses from around the world! Cambridgeshire Wine School The Royal Cambridge Hotel (hired venue), Trumpington Street, Cambridge CB2 1PY. 01223 655391 25-Jan Campfire Cooking Come and cook up some tasty treats with a festive flavour. Participants will be have a go at cooking and eating some simple campfire recipes whilst ensuring the fire doesn’t go out. Ferry Meadows, Ham Lane, Peterborough, PE2 5UU

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The Social Scene Keep up with every Like, Tweet, Snap and Website competition /eastlifemag

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READER PHOTOS of the

MONTH...

Holme, Cambs by Christine Mitchell @chris_alpacas

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Winter Photography COMPETITION

Would you like your photo to be our Facebook and Twitter banner image throughout the whole of February? To enter, all you need to do is share a wintry photo youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve taken whilst out and about in East Anglia (think snow, frost etc). DM us on Facebook or Twitter or email your entry through to nicole@eastlife.co.uk

Cambridgeshire sunrise by Gareth @IrishPixel

Veganuary

Happily Ever After Got engaged this Xmas? Come join us over on Facebook at www.facebook.com/eastlifeweddings to keep up to date with all the latest wedding fairs, tips and trends for 2019!

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Have you taken the pledge to go Vegan this January? Our Vegetarian & Vegan Facebook group will be busy sharing the plant-based love across East Anglia this month with recommendations of where to eat, the best recipes and much more! Come join our community today: www.facebook.com/groups/Veggieandvegan/