Eastlife November 2018 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

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The design of The Croft at Baston means that residents can enjoy a sense of property security within a close community of neighbours. Free up money tied up in your house and start living the life you want.

So, buy price

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hop that now

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The Croft at Baston is a stylish development of one and two bedroom bungalows designed to need minimal ongoing maintenance and exclusively for the over 55s. SHOWHOME NOW OPEN

Mayfield Gardens (off Chesham Drive), Baston, Lincolnshire PE6 9QW Sales office open Saturday to Tuesday 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm

Come and find your new home. Look at www.larkfleethomes.co.uk for more information, email baston@larkfleethomes.co.uk or call 07917 761020

3228 1018

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ADVERTORIAL ADVERTORIAL

New lifestyle Newhomes homes for for aa new new lifestyle

hey call us ‘empty nesters’ - the kids have grown up and left home (at last!) so we’re rattling around call ustwice ‘empty nesters’ kids have upbig and left home last!) so when we’rethe rattling around inhey a house as big as we- the need. And wegrown have a garden that(at was ideal children in a house twice as big as we need. And we have a big garden that was ideal when the children wanted to bring all their friends round to play football but is now just a chore to maintain. wanted to bring all their friends round to play football but is now just a chore to maintain.

Then there’s the financial aspect. The house is apparently Thena there’s the financial aspect. Thehave housejust is apparently worth small fortune (the neighbours sold worth fortune (the neighbours have justnot sold theirs fora asmall frankly ridiculous amount) but we’re theirs any for avalue frankly ridiculous butbricks we’reand not getting from moneyamount) tied up in getting any value from money tied up in bricks and mortar. mortar. I am still working so we’re not exactly struggling for cash. I am still working so we’re not exactly struggling for cash. But with more money in the bank we could do some of But with more money in the bank we could do some of the things that we can’t quite afford at the moment – that the things that we can’t quite afford at the moment – that long-promised world cruise, for a start. long-promised world cruise, for a start.

The second phase of development at The Croft at Baston Thejust second phaseIt of at of The Croft at Baston has opened. is development a small number new homes in has tranquil just opened. It isjust a small number of new homes in It this village outside Bourne in Lincolnshire. this alongside tranquil village just outside Bourne in Lincolnshire. It sits the highly successful fully-sold first phase, sits alongside highly successful fully-sold phase, extending the the community but keeping it at afirst modest extending the community but keeping it at a modest scale. scale. The properties are mostly one and two-bedroom The properties are mostly one and two-bedroom bungalows. Maybe we’ll take one of the larger ones so bungalows. Maybe we’ll take one of the larger ones so that we have somewhere for the children to stay when that we have somewhere for the children to stay when they visit – and perhaps grandchildren too, one day – they visit – and perhaps grandchildren too, one day – who knows? who knows? All have been been designed designedto toneed needminimal minimal All the the homes homes have ongoing maintenance. It means that we can benefitfrom from ongoing maintenance. It means that we can benefit the and security securityof ofproperty propertyownership ownership the independence independence and without concerns of of property propertyupkeep upkeep––the thegarden gardenisis without the the concerns aa lot so there’s there’s less less mowing mowingand andweeding! weeding! lot smaller smaller so The are located located around aroundattractive attractivewalkways walkways The bungalows bungalows are and creating aa pleasant pleasantresidential residentialenvironment. environment. and gardens, gardens, creating The itself has has aa number numberof ofshops shopsand andtwo two The village village itself excellent with restaurants. restaurants. excellent pubs with

ItIt is too, close close to tothe theA15 A15for foreasy easyaccess access is well located, too, to Peterborough and andLincoln, Lincoln,as aswell wellasas to the the cities of Peterborough So,So, we’re looking we’re lookingatat‘down-sizing’. ‘down-sizing’.Sell Sellthis thisbig bighouse house and and nearby and the the historic historictown townof ofStamford. Stamford.And And nearby Bourne and buy somewhere buy somewheresmaller smaller– –and andpocket pocketthe thedifference differencein in we don’t want to use ifif we use the the car, car,the thefrequent frequentbus busservice service prices. prices. provides an easy alternative. provides alternative. We’re planningahead, ahead,too. too.We’re We’reiningood goodhealth healthand and We’re planning hope it will staythat thatway wayfor foryears yearstotocome. come.But Butwe weknow know hope it will stay that eventuallywe’re we’renot notgoing goingtotobe beas asactive activeas aswe weare are that eventually now. now. That’s why we’vebeen beenlooking lookingatatdevelopments developmentsfrom from That’s why we’ve Larkfleet Homesunder underThe TheCroft Croftbrand. brand.They Theyare are Larkfleet Homes designed providethe theover-55s over-55s(whether (whetherretired retiredor orstill still designed toto provide working) with theindependence independenceofofowning owningtheir theirown own working) with the homes combinedwith withthe thebenefits benefitsofofbeing beingpart partof ofaa homes combined community. community.

Maybe it is time to fly Maybe fly our our empty emptynest nestand andhead headfor for The Croft at Baston. The Baston.

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new A-Class range: urban 41.5(6.8)- 62.8(4.5), extra urb 51.4(5)-68.9(4.1). CO2 emissions from 108-141 g/km. CO2 emissions 132-104 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors.

The all-new A-Class. Just like you. The all-new Mercedes-Benz A-Class features an interior that redeﬁnes the concept of modern luxury in the compact class. Demonstrated by MBUX (MercedesBenz User Experience) the touch-screen control, an innovative voice control system and augmented reality navigation revolutionises the way drivers can interact

with the A-Class as your car learns who you are and intuitively updates your preferences. As standard, the 7.0-inch dual wide-screen cockpit displays driver related information to the instrument cluster along with navigation and entertainment information to the touch-screen to allow for a more immersive driving experience.

The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method. These are the “NEDC CO2 values” according to Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). For more information on these values and how they have been calculated please see www. mercedesbenz.co.uk/WLTP. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions, chosen optional extras and other non-technical factors. Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance behalf of other finance companies as well. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz A 180 d SE at £24,200 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, fist registration fee and fuel). Specification imagery may show optional features. Content relating to finance is promoted by Mercedes- Benz Finance. Your Retailer may offer finance on behalf of other companies. *Finance offer based on an A 180 d SE on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement, on 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and Retailer deposit contribution. Orders/credit approvals on selected A-Class models, between 1 October and 31 December 2018, registered by 31 March 2019. Guarantees may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Finance, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.

The best or nothing.

Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 769676 Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401100

Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307 Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 980800

(4.5), extra urban 60.1(4.7)-72.4(3.9), combined re provided for comparison purposes and actual

Representative example A 180d SE

48 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement)

£269

On-the-road price

£24,200

Customer deposit

£4,788.89

Retailer deposit contribution

£0

Optional ﬁnal payment

£10,075

Total amount of credit

£19,411.11

Total amount payable††

£27,785.89

Option to purchase fee†

£10

†

Representative APR Fixed interest rate

Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900 www.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz

6.1% 5.95%

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

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

editor

From the

PRODUCTION MANAGER/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Paul Balaam

Dear Reader,

paul@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142

The countdown to Christmas has begun! This year our favourite cities and market towns are going all out to delight and dazzle in the lead up to the big day. With so much action, let us be your guide to the festive fun. From the best Christmas markets and pantomimes to light switch-ons and family events, we have the essential dates covered.

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 - 07826 628680 Stewart Hedges - 07595 894557 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635

The latest trend to be sweeping the region is wreath making workshops. Popping up in florists and historic houses, it’s a great opportunity to get creative. Find our top picks on page 38. If you’ve still not booked your Christmas party, we’ve got plenty of inspiration on page 28.

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

If you’re struggling to find the perfect present for loved ones, take a peek at our ultimate gift guide full of great ideas from local independent retailers.

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

There were so many Christmas events that we couldn’t fit them all in this issue, so keep checking www.eastlife.co.uk for more updates.

Emma Kemsley

Find us on online: /eastlifemag @eastlifemag

eastlife November 2018

eastlife ife FR

www.eastlife.co.uk

Living life in the East

front cover:

Make the most of where you live

Artist Robert Nelmes, ‘Sasha Eating His Chips’, Pottergate, Norwich, Oil, 41x30cm. Photo © Katy Jon Went

100

Unmissable

www.eastlife.co.uk

On the

November 2018

Over

@eastmagazines

Artist bio and link: www.paintout.org/robert-nelmes

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

Christmas Events Festive markets, pantomime, wreath workshops, gift ideas and more Issue 162

eastlife.co.uk

On all orders placed before 31st December 2018

11-15 AROUND THE REGION

A round-up of monthly news and events

19-21 XMAS MARKETS

A guide to the best festive markets across the region

25 LET THERE BE LIGHT

Watch your town sparkle for xmas

41-49 GIFT GUIDE

Present ideas for men and women

50-53 DOG-FRIENDLY

Tails About Town and boarding

55-59 LITTLE EAST

Mumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Word and festive family events 61 EDUCATION School Open days

65-71 FOOD & DRINK

News, the Cambridge Foodie & festive feasts 74-75 HEALTH Winter workouts

77 FASHION

Stylish sleepwear

78-79 WEDDINGS

Why you should hire a wedding planner

Contents

November 2018

86-97 INTERIORS

Kitchens, an interview with Bella Art, gardens and Cambridge property

99-101 ARTS

Monthly column and the latest news

103-111 NORFOLK

Secret Norfolk & a stylish city break in Norwich

113-127 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Christmas in Olney & Ampthill

148 130-135 CAMBRIDGESHIRE Must visit events in Cambridge

137-141 ESSEX

Christmas in Chelmsford

143-153 SUFFOLK

Get festive in Woodbridge and Bury St Emunds

eastlife.co.uk

Peterborough. Just a ‘new town’? There’s more beneath the surface. Treasures. The new exhibition at Peterborough Museum 25 Aug 2018 - 6 Jan 2019

Download your free guide at vivacity.org/treasures or visit Peterborough Museum

Eastlife Diary

Around

the region

The KT Bush Band 9 November The Cut Art Centre, Halesworth, Suffolk Two of the original members have reformed to perform hit songs and classic album tracks of Kate Bush. Tickets available from the box office. www.thektbushband.com

Presents Galore 23-25 November The Millennium Stand, Rowley Mile Racecourse, Newmarket, CB8 0TF The festive fair is back for another year of shopping to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. All entrance fees and 10% of sales will go to the charity. It’s a great opportunity to pick up gifts and shop from local businesses while raising money for a good cause. Tickets priced £7. www.presentsgalore.org

Image: Hitchcock Law

Cambridge International Jazz Festival 13 November The fourth annual Brewin Dolphin Cambridge International Jazz Festival kicks off on 13 November with two weeks of live music at a staggering array of over 30 city centre venues. With music from a wealth of legendary national and international stars, a variety of emerging artists, and a wide choice of mainstream and cutting-edge music, the Festival is expected to attract thousands of people to over 60 events at venues across the city. www.cambridgejazzfestival.info

TV Chef Gregg Wallace on stage The Quarry Theatre, Bedford, 10 November The star of BBC’s MasterChef, takes to the stage for this brand new live show mixing hilarious behind the scenes tales with demonstrations and audience fun and games. Complete with a Q&A, this really is a must-see event for any foodie and Gregg fan! www.quarrytheatre.org.uk

Southwold Literature Festival, 8-12 November Ways With Words returns for another year with a host of great speakers at St Edmund’s Arts Centre. This year’s highlights include tales of high adventures on the seas from Robin KnowJohnston, a political sketch from John Crace and talks from Baroness Kennedy QC about the ongoing #Metoo debacle and Dr Irving Finkel on history, to name a few. This year will also see additional evening events. Book tickets at www.wayswithwords.co.uk/ festivals/southwold-19

Cambridge Music Festival 14-26 November Over 10 days, the festival will bring big names in classical and contemporary music to the city’s most loved venues. Audiences will be able to immerse themselves in a programme featuring pieces written to reflect epoch-changing moments, passionate personal stories, and the peaks and troughs that define what it means to be alive. Visit www.cambridgemusicfestival.co.uk for the full programme and tickets. Image: Aurora Percussion Duo

eastlife.co.uk

We are introducing Brig-ayd’s 40-kilo boot hoist.

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We are introducing Brig-ayd’s 40-kilo boot hoist. We are introducing Brig-ayd’s 40-kilo boot hoist. This hoist is reliable and compact; it can be used to lift small motorised scooters and manual wheelchairs Weof up to 40 kilograms. are introducing Brig-ayd’s 40-kilo boot hoist. .tsioh to This hoist is reliable and compact; it can be used to lift small motorised scooters and manual wheelchairs

The hoist can be neatly installed to either the nearside or offside rear corner of the vehicles boot area. It’s of up to 40 kilograms.

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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 5040 or visit ClayburnCourt.co.uk Rated March 2018

Good

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18/10/2018 11:04:55

Around region the

Shop local with ‘Small Business Saturday’ The annual ‘Small Business Saturday’ campaign returns on 1 December encouraging small businesses to demonstrate what their business is all about and reach out to customers. Local businesses will be coming together across the region to support the campaign, but there’s one in particular which is going all out; Pavilion at the Park in Bedford. It has been chosen as one of the ‘Small Business Saturday’ #SmallBiz100 which highlights 100 small businesses across the country, one a day for the 100 days leading up to the event itself. On Thursday 8 November, Pavilion at the Park will be all over Small Business Saturday’s social media platforms, and from 8am-10am it will host a business breakfast which is free if you post about The Pavilion to your followers on Instagram, Twitter and/or Facebook using #smallbiz100.

There will be a #smallbiz100 selfie frame too, which encourages companies to bring its company literature, and help to champion Bedford’s incredible array of small businesses and meet, network and share. The #SmallBizSatUK Twitter account has over 43.6K followers, so this is the chance, for one day only for Bedford’s small businesses to go viral and take over the feed! From 10am - 4pm, all freelancers are invited to work from the Pavilion at the Park all day with free Wifi and free teas and coffees for you and anyone you invite for a business meeting. Plus there’s a free prize draw for in which businesses can take part. There will be further celebrations on 1 December with Explore Bedford, with offers and events throughout the town. Further details at pavilion.attheparkbedford.co.uk and smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com

Shops, eateries, places to stay, attractions, and other businesses will be able to display the #dogfriendlybse paw print logo sticker in their window and put out a dog water bowl to show they are dog friendly. The initiative, funded by Bury St Edmunds Town Council, aims to help visitors and residents easily identify businesses that are dog friendly in and around Bury St Edmunds. ‘Dog-Friendly Bury St Edmunds’ was launched at Really Rather Good, a café in Abbeygate Street and just one of the many dog friendly businesses in the town.

Image by Jon Kay

Is Bury St Edmunds the most dog friendly town in Suffolk? A new initiative to give dogs a warm welcome in Bury St Edmunds has been launched by Bury St Edmunds Town Council, Bury St Edmunds Canine Creche, Bury St Edmunds and Beyond and OurBuryStEdmundsBID.

Download Our App Today!

You can find a list of dog friendly places in and around Bury St Edmunds who have signed up to the initiative and who display the Dog Friendly Bury St Edmunds paw print sticker in their window on the Bury St Edmunds Town Council website at www.burystedmunds-tc.gov.uk/home/dogfriendly If you are a business that would like to join, contact the Town Council Offices on 01284 725111 or email info@burystedmunds-tc.gov.uk. Follow Dog Friendly Bury St Edmunds on twitter: twitter.com/Dogfriendlybse and Instagram: www.instagram.com/dogfriendlybse/ #dogfriendlybse.

New Ely ‘Borrow Bag’ Scheme targets a Plastic Bag Free City We’ve all done it. There’s nothing worse than getting to the checkout only to realise you’ve forgotten your bag for life and have the guilt of buying another plastic bag. However, in a bid to become a plastic bag free city, Visit Ely and Sew Much To Do have joined forces to launch ‘Ely Borrow Bags’. Ely Borrow Bags comes from the nationwide Morsbags initiative and aims to encourage local shops and businesses to offer customers strong reusable, original, recycled and washable bags that will last for years, thus reducing the use of plastic bags. This is a community-based scheme and volunteers are invited to join in whether by making and distributing the bags, donating fabric or helping to spread the word. Want to get involved? Ely Morsbaggers is co-ordinated by Sew Much To Do which will also be running regular

bag making ‘sewcials’. Full bag making instructions and how to get more involved are also on the Visit Ely website at www.visitely.org.uk. Follow the ‘Morsbags’ pattern or let your creativity flow and design your own. Each bag must carry the Ely Borrow Bag logo, a Morsbag tag. Once complete you must let Ely Mosbaggers know so they can update the tally. The target is 500 by Christmas! Labels are available from either Ely Tourist Information Centre or Sew Much To Do, High Street Passage.

Regional intu shopping malls to open new stores There are new stores opening at selected Intu shopping malls across the East of England just in time for Christmas. Last month intu Lakeside, in Thurrock, Essex, opened its doors to long established beauty brand, Molton Brown. This is part of the malls expansion which see an additional 175,000 sq ft of extra space for leisure brands like Nickelodeon and Hollywood Bowl as well as a selection of new restaurants. Other luxury brands to have signed up to the centres retail mix include G Star and Watchfinder.

H&M opened the doors to its latest store at intu Watford last month, while Oliver Bonas has signed up to intu Chapelfield in Norwich as part of the independent retailers expansion to new areas. The 2,000 sq ft store will offer a range of homeware, gifts and fashion collections, designed in-house by the Oliver Bonas team.

The Varsity Hotel & Spa, Cambridge, gets started on refurbishment The Varsity Hotel & Spa on Thompson’s Lane is investing £2 million to undertake a full refurbishment of its 44 guest rooms. The scheme will be completed by January and will help the hotel increase trade, which is projected to add 22 jobs to the local economy. Each of the newly designed rooms will feature herringbone wood flooring, handmade rugs from artisan weavers and delicately patterned wallpaper from luxury British high end Designers Guild and Colefax and Fowler. Each bedroom will be completed by a sandstone bathroom, boasting underfloor heating, a monsoon shower or Victorian free-standing bath-tub and exclusive Elemis products, some will have mini TVs in the bathrooms. The guest experience is at the heart of the new refurbishment. The Varsity has incorporated the latest technology with a smart television in each room, and in-room tablets to allow guests to order room service, make concierge requests and access a full-service directory at the press of a button. www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk

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ft l e s Gi X m a Av a i l ab h e rs Vouc

Festivals, markets games, oh, my! W

ith 2,000 years of history within easy reach, St Albans is the perfect place for a festive shopping trip.

Christmas-themed tours and the wonderful Carols on the Hour on Saturday 15th December www. stalbanscathedral.org

The main shopping street in St Albans St Peter’s Street, is transformed for the festive season. Trees wrapped in thousands of fairy lights provide a magical ambience to showcase some gorgeous shop window displays. Do look out for the special displays in shops participating in the daily advent calendar reveal. You can find out more and take a tour of the Advent trail at www.enjoystalbans/christmas

From the sublime to the side-splitting, don’t miss the hilarious, fun-packed family pantomime, Cinderella, at The Alban Arena. Starring Rachel Stevens (S Club 7), children’s favourite, Ben Faulks (Cbeebies’ Mr Bloom) and local legend, Bob Golding. http://www.alban-arena. co.uk/events/cinderella/

On Wednesdays and Saturdays the centre of St Albans is alive with the bustle and calls of up to 150 traders in the venerable old Market. With a history that reaches back even further than the granting of its Charter in 1553, it has long defined this charming and characterful city. Nowadays you’ll find stalls selling everything from fish to fruit, foam to fascinators. A special extension of the Market is in place for the week leading to Christmas, so you can find gifts for everybody on your list on the Market every day from Sunday 16 December right up to Christmas Eve. St Albans Cathedral – dedicated to Britain’s first saint, Alban – is a wonderful place to take some time for reflection. Enjoy special

For more fantastic family fun, visit the Meraki Christmas Festival on the Events Meadow in Verulamium Park. For the first time this year, the St Albans Christmas Market is being hosted within a spectacular festival. So not only will you be able to shop for unique hand-made goods from picturesque wooden chalets, you’ll also be able to enjoy all the fun of the fair. This part of Verulamium Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland with rides, a spectacular virtual reality Santa’s grotto experience, Christmas movies, skating, an ice bar and much, much more. Check out www.merakifestival. com for more information.

Resplendent at the heart of the City in its newly restored glory is the St Albans Museum + Gallery. Its festive exhibition references a popular family pursuit for Christmas get-togethers. Game Plan: Board Games Rediscovered celebrates the joy, excitement and occasional frustration of playing board games. This exhibition, originally displayed at the V&A’s Museum of Childhood, includes some of the most iconic, enthralling and visually striking games from the V&A’s outstanding national collection of board games. Alongside current family favourites such as Cluedo and Trivial Pursuit, and traditional games like chess, the exhibition will look at historical board games including The Game of the Goose and other beautifully designed games from the 18th and 19th centuries. Displayed at St Albans Museum + Gallery from November 2018 to March 2019. https://www. stalbansmuseums.org.uk/visit/stalbans-museum-gallery. For more information on what’s going on in St Albans at Christmas, go to www.enjoystalbans.com/Christmas

Lifestyle

Cosy up at a Christmas Market

Written by Amanda French (www.fab-pr.co.uk)

othing gets you in the Christmas spirit like a potter around a beautifully lit Christmas market one evening. Enjoy a glass of mulled wine, a mince pie or Bratwurst and pick up some presents for family and friends. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve pulled together a round-up of our favourite markets across the region this year to make it even easier to find your local one.

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BEDFORDSHIRE The 24 November sees the Red Cross Bedfordshire Christmas Fayre take over the Great Hall at Bedford School as over 60 stalls of gifts, homewares and festive food set up shop. Get into the festive spirit and get that Christmas shopping sorted early. Open from 10am-4pm. £4 entry, children under 10 go free. www.redcross.org. uk/get-involved/fundraising-and-events/bedfordshirechristmas-market The Made in Bedford Artisan Christmas Fair will once again be heading to the Bedford Corn Exchange on Sunday 2 December from 10am – 4pm. Local artists, craftspeople and producers will be showcasing their festive wares. Pick up gifts, decorations, cards and more while also sampling local homemade treats. There’ll also be the chance to take part in craft workshops and enjoy demonstrations. Enjoy a cup of mulled wine as you head around the fair and enjoy carol singing. Admission is free. riversidebedford.co.uk/event/made-in-bedfords-christmasartisan-fair-2018 ESSEX Market Square in Saffron Walden will be turning into a winter wonderland for one day for the Christmas Street Market on Sunday 25 November, the same day as the Christmas lights switch on. From 11am until 5pm there’ll be food, drink, music and of course entertainment including a screening of Frozen at the Town Hall. Find out more at www.saffronwalden.gov.uk Channels, the beautiful estate in Little Waltham near Chelmsford is hosting a Christmas Market on the 23 November. Stalls offering original handmade gifts, vintage offerings and festive decorations will be on offer on the Friday from 12pm – 3pm and again from 4pm until 9pm. Santa will be popping by on his sleigh at 5pm and will be

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manning his grotto from 6pm until 9pm. It’s not just for the kids though as there’ll be plenty of live music, festive food, mulled wine and more. It might sound barking, but due to last year’s success, the Doggie’s Christmas Party returns on Saturday 24 November at 10am – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm. The party includes festive stalls with doggy gifts, a pet photographer, dog display team and a professional dog groomer. Find out more here: www.channelsestate.co.uk Braxted Park launches its inaugural Christmas Market on the 1 and 2 December to showcase outstanding local businesses and artisan producers. The park is usually closed to the public, so this event also offers a rare opportunity to see the house and 500 acres of parklands, woodland and gardens hidden behind the wall. There will be local food and drink available to enjoy at the market, as well as wine and spirit tastings provided by the team behind Maldon District Council’s Grape & Grain Trail. Younger visitors to the market will be able to visit Mrs Christmas’s Kitchen to decorate an edible treat to take home, and some of Father Christmas’ reindeer will be paying the estate a visit throughout the two days. Over the weekend The Cookery School at Braxted Park will be opening its doors for exclusive hands-on cookery workshops with celebrated chef Tim Maddams (River Cottage). Tickets for these workshops are £10 and are available from www.christmasatbraxtedpark.com. The Braxted Park Christmas Market is free to attend. CAMBRIDGESHIRE From the 15 – 17 November the Ely Cathedral Christmas Gift & Craft Fair will be taking place. This massive event sees over 120 stalls located in the Cathedral’s magnificent

Ely Cathedral (left), Christmas Market at Burnham Deepdale (above)

magical festive atmosphere with over 100 stalls, free children’s entertainment, real reindeer and Santa and his elves in their winter workshop. For more details, visit www.burystedmundschristmasfayre.co.uk

nave, the Lady Chapel and even a heated marquee in the grounds. As well as the chance to pick up gifts, homemade treats and more, the fair also features live demonstrations, a festive food hall, a vintage carousel, reindeer and children’s entertainment (Sunday only). Find out more and purchase tickets in advance here: www.elycathedral.org or call 01353 660349 HERTFORDSHIRE St Albans Christmas Market will once again be taking over the city from 30 November until 22 December. This year will be the first year it is being hosted within the Meraki Christmas Festival which means not only will it be packed with stalls offering local and handcrafted gifts, but there’ll also be the chance to enjoy rides, a spectacular virtual reality Santa’s Grotto experience, Christmas movies, skating, an ice bar and much, much more. Visit www.merakichristmas.com for more information. SUFFOLK The Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre this year runs from 22 until 25 November and will be showcasing a huge selection of arts, crafts and gifts, as well as a variety food and drink from the region. With over 300 stalls set out along the town’s medieval streets and gardens, you’ll find a gift for even the hardest relative or friend to buy for. The Abbey Gardens provides a

Christmas arrives at Blackthorpe Barn every weekend from 10 November with the arrival of the Christmas British Crafts events. Visitors can meander through the barn and enjoy hand-crafted goods from a variety of artists and skilled crafts makers. Packed with 100% British made items, there’ll be the chance to buy gifts including wooden creations, knitwear, artworks, ceramics, leather goods and much, much more. Find out more here: www.blackthorpebarn.com/Christmas Lavenham’s Market Square is completely transformed for three days from 7-9 December as the Christmas Fair arrives. With a funfair, big wheel and over 50 stalls, it’s truly a family affair. There’ll also be carol singers to get you in the mood and village shops will also be open for late night shopping during the event. Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events NORFOLK The 30 November until 2 December sees the return of Deepdale’s famous Christmas Market at Burnham Deepdale on the North Norfolk coast. More than 130 artisans and producers join the permanent shops and cafe to create one of the best festive markets in the region. With free entry and plenty of food, drink and entertainment to enjoy, this one is a great day out for the whole family. The market runs from 10am until 5pm each day. For more information visit www.deepdalechristmasmarket.co.uk

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Thursday 29th Nov – Sun 2nd Dec 2018 Thursday : 12.00noon – 7.30pm Friday : 9.00am – 7.30pm Saturday: 9.00am – 7.30pm Sunday: 9:00am – 5.00pm Market Square & Town Hall

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON Thurs 29th Nov at 6.30pm d Fun for all the family d Meet Father Christmas d Children’s entertainment d Festive food and drinks d Live music stage d Christmas gifts & stocking fillers To find out more, visit:

Facebook: Huntingdon Christmas Market 2018 Website: www.huntingdonchristmasmarket.co.uk Email: natasha.pierson@huntingdontown.gov.uk

HUNTINGDON

TOWN COUNCIL

TRANSPORT & ENGINEERING HERITAGE IN OUR COUNTY TOWN

Over 100 major exhibits - all made or used in Ipswich!

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY and BANK HOLIDAY 11am - 4pm until 2nd DECEMBER

Plus MONDAY to FRIDAY 1pm - 4pm during SUMMER & AUTUMN School Holidays

See website for details and special events

We’re on Facebook & Google Streetview! Old Trolleybus Depot, Cobham Road, Ipswich IP3 9JD

GIFT SHOP - TEA ROOM - WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE enquiries@ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk

The BIG Switch-On O

ne of the most exciting things in the lead up to Christmas is watching your home town twinkle into action with festive lights. Get ready to be dazzled with seasonal cheer, food and fun at one of these Christmas light switch-ons in the East.

NORFOLK Norwich, 15 November 6pm-10pm www.visitnorwich.co.uk

St Neots, 30 November, 5pm-9pm www.heart.co.uk/cambridge/events/st-neots-christmaslights-switch/ ESSEX Chelmsford, 18 November, 2pm-6pm www.chelmsford.gov.uk/christmas Braintree, 17 November, from 4pm

Holt, 14 November, 6.30pm www.holtchristmaslights.org

Saffron Walden, 25 November, 5-6pm www.visitsaﬀronwalden.gov.uk

Burnham Market, 17 November, 10am-6pm www.burnhammarket.co.uk

Brentwood, 24 November, 12.30pm-6pm Halstead, 1 December, 4.30pm

Great Yarmouth, 30 November, Maldon, 29 November, 6pm-9pm Gorleston-on-Sea, 25 November North Walsham, 24 November, 2.30pm-7pm

Southend on Sea, 17 November, 7.30pm www.visitsouthend.co.uk

Wells-next-the-Sea, 24 November www.wellschristmastide.org.uk

Great Dunmow, 1 December www.visitgreatdunmow.co.uk/events.html

SUFFOLK Lowestoft, 1 December www.lowestoftvision.co.uk

HERTS & BEDS Hertford, 23 November, 3.30pm-8pm www.hertford.gov.uk/events/hertford-christmas-gala-432/

Beccles, 30 November, 5.30pm-9pm www.beccleschristmaslights.co.uk

Ware, 7 December, 6pm-10pm www.dickensian.org.uk

Southwold, 24 November, 2pm-7pm

St Albans, 18 November, 12noon – 6pm www.enjoystalbans.com

Felixstowe, 1 December, 5pm www.felixstowe.gov.uk/events-attractions/christmas-infelixstowe/

Harpenden, 28 November, 12noon – 5pm www.harpenden.gov.uk/events-list

Ipswich, 22 November, 4.30pm-7pm www.ipswichentertains.co.uk

Watford, 10 November, 4.30pm-6pm www.watfordbid.co.uk

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Cambridge, 18 November www.cambridgebid.co.uk

Bedford, 22 November www.lovebedford.co.uk/christmas.php Olney, 9 December, 10am-4pm

Peterborough, 16 November, 4pm Sawbridgeworth, 24 November, 4.30pm Huntingdon, 29 November, 6pm

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THE kings arms

KINGS ARMS LANE • POLEBROOK PETERBOROUGH • PE8 5LW

CHRISTMAS

we are now takings bookings for your Christmas party throughout December, £25 per head for 3 courses, menu and booking information is available on www.kingsarmspolebrook.co.uk Christmas Day Bookings are also being taken, £65.00 per head for 3 courses, bookings 12-2pm, please email info@kingsarmspolebrook.co.uk for booking and menu information

PARTY BOOKINGS

we now have extensive choice from Dinner party menus to afternoon tea party menus in order to host your group function or celebration, Function menus are available to view on www.kingsarmspolebrook.co.uk

STEAK AND GRILL NIGHT

Every Tuesday Evening 2 courses £16, menu available to view on www.kingsarmspolebrook.co.uk

PUB OPENING TIMES & FOOD SERVICE MONDAY; Bar Only; 6-10pm

Happy Hours; 6-8pm

TUESDAY (from 4th Sept onwards); Bar; 12-3pm & 6-10pm Food; 12-2pm & 6-9pm WEDNESDAY; Bar; 12-3pm & 6-10pm Food; 12-2pm & 6-9pm THURSDAY; Bar; 12-3pm & 6-10pm Food; 12-2pm & 6-9pm FRIDAY; Bar; 12-2pm & 5-11pm Food; 12-2pm & 6-9:30pm SATURDAY; Bar:12-11pm

Food: 12-2:30pm & 6-9:30pm

SUNDAY; Bar; 12-10pm

Food; 12-7pm

Tel: 01832 272363 info@kingsarmspolebrook.co.uk www.kingsarmspolebrook.co.uk

Now ta k ing book i n g s fo r Christma s P a r t i es From the lovely open fires to the ample beer garden, which has been recently refurbishment. This is the perfect place to while away those long summer afternoons and enjoy a spot of al fresco dining. We have sought to highlight diversity in the menus. You will find modern British cuisine elegantly presented alongside an offering of traditional pub meals such as the homemade beef burgers and fresh fish and chips.

While the food served is certainly of restaurant standard, The Red Lion has not forgotten its status as a pub - we have a wonderful premium gin menu, craft ales and an extensive wine menu. This is what the Red Lion is all about.

Don’t forget to bring your furry friend along with you as they are very welcome in our bar areas and our garden.

Mon - Friday 12 - 3, 6 -11pm Sat - 12-11pm | Sun - 12-7pm

01525 210 044

www.miltonbryanpub.co.uk

The Black Horse, 1 Bedford Street, Woburn, MK17 9QB 01525 290210 blackhorse@peachpubs.com

Join us for a proper Christmas feast this year. Our turkeys are bronze, free-range birds from Worcester, our beef is British and our fish is always responsibly sourced. We want to make sure your party is magical from the moment you step into the pub. The fires will be lit, mulled wine will be gently simmering on the bar, buttery mince pies stacked up in the kitchen and Santa hats are on the table for every guest (wearing them is obligatory). There’s a list of award-winning wines and bubbles to choose from too, all you need to do is gather your friends, family or work mates. OUR CHRISTMAS PRESENT TO YOU Book a table for lunch or dinner between Wednesday 28th November and Sunday 9th December and enjoy three courses from our Christmas menu for the price of two. For parties booked between 5.30pm-6.30pm and dining from our Christmas menu, any day right up to Christmas Eve, enjoy a glass of Prosecco each on us.

Served from 28th November until Christmas Eve £23.50 for 2 courses or £28 for 3 courses

Butternut Squash Soup, Toasted Seeds & Croutons Venison & Pheasant Terrine, Plum & Ginger Chutney, Toasts Smoked Mackerel Pâté, Pickled Cucumber & Fennel, Grilled Bloomer Deli Plate for One - Tomato Houmous & Toasted Pitta, Soy & Chilli Marinated Aubergine, Spiced Cauliflower Salad (also suitable for vegans)

Free-range Worcester Bronze Turkey, Chipolatas, Sage & Onion Stuffing Fillet of Salmon, Sautéed Leeks & Crushed Potatoes, Chardonnay Cream Sauce Moroccan-spiced Vegetable & Chickpea Tagine, Beetroot Barley & Toasted Hazelnuts (also suitable for vegans) Slow-cooked Blade of Beef Bourgignon, Parsnip Purée All served with seasonal vegetables & roast potatoes

St Clement’s Cheesecake Christmas Pudding Tart & Chantilly Cream Dark Chocolate Pot, Candied Fruit, Almonds & Honeycomb (also suitable for vegans) Individual Smidgen of Winterdale Cheese, Apple & Crackers

PARTY TIME!

he Christmas get-together with colleagues or friends is always something to look forward to in the lead up to the big day itself. If you’ve taken on the task of finding the perfect location and event to keep everyone smiling, then read our guide to the best festive party packages across the East of England. Ufford Park, Hotel, Golf & Spa Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW Tel: 01394 383555 | www.uffordpark.co.uk/en/events/christmas This year the hotel will be adding a touch of Parisian glamour to its festivities. Christmas party nights will take place on Fridays and Saturdays between 30 November and 5 January, excluding Christmas and New Year. Guests can indulge in a tasty three course meal and dance the night away under twinkling lights for a touch of Moulin Rouge. If you can’t make a party evening, there’s also the opportunity for a festive lunch or afternoon tea throughout December. Party nights priced from £37.50 per person. The Northgate Northgate Street, Bury St. Edmunds IP33 1HP Tel: 01284 339604 | www.thenorthgate.com For a more subdued Christmas gathering with the team book a table at The Northgate, a stylish boutique hotel

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Photo credit: Aqua Parks Group, Rutland

and restaurant in Bury St Edmunds. Its Christmas party package includes a three course menu which showcases some of Suffolk’s best produce. Guests can dine in the restaurant or in the private Club Room which seats up to 24 people. The menu starts from £28 per person from the 19 November. The Bull Hotel Westgate, Peterborough PE1 1RB Tel: 01733 561364 | www.peelhotels.co.uk/bull-hotel It’s all fun and games at The Bull Hotel with its huge offering of festive events. Choose from a winter wonderland themed party night or keep it traditional, get involved with a Murder Mystery dinner, create a bespoke party night for your needs or enjoy a festive lunch or afternoon tea. With prices starting from £18.95 you will certainly find something to suit all tastes and budgets.

Knebworth House Knebworth SG1 2AX Tel: 01438 812661 | www.knebworthhouse.com Partygoers can add a dash of intrigue to their festive fun this year, with a masquerade ball at Knebworth House. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 30 November until 12 January, the venue is holding lavish parties in a star-clothed marquee within its grounds, which includes a three-course meal, a late bar and dancing until 1am. For those looking for a spicier celebration, this Christmas will also see the return of Knebworth’s much loved Christmas Curry Nights, with a special Indian-themed hot buffet, available on Wednesday 5, 12 and 19 December. The party will then last into the night with dancing, a DJ and a late bar. During December, the Cobbold Barn will also play host to traditional Christmas parties for corporate and social guests, featuring the same three course menu served at the Masquerade balls.

Paris House Woburn Park, Woburn, Bedford MK17 9QP Tel: 01525 290692 | www.parishouse.co.uk If fine food is more your style book a table at Paris House where award-winning chef and owner Phil Fanning will be serving up a six, eight and ten course lunch and dinner menu using seasonal ingredients taking inspiration from around the world with a particular focus on Asia. Prices start from £54 per person. Revolución de Cuba 7-9 Queen St, Norwich NR2 4TL Tel: 01603 857565 | revoluciondecuba.com Forget turkey with all the trimmings and add some heat to your Christmas party! Reserve a table or booth for your group, start with cocktails before indulging in a Caribbean themed three course dinner and dance the night away. Orsett Hall Prince Charles Ave, Orsett, Grays RM16 3HS Tel: 01375 891402 | www.orsetthall.co.uk Orsett Hall is one of the most popular party venues in Essex, and this Christmas it is bringing pure festive fun to the county. Book a table and join other groups and enjoy a three course meal followed by dancing with music from a live DJ. If you fancy something a bit more traditional, choose the ‘Merry Swingmas Evening’ which includes a live band. There’s also an all-inclusive option which has both food and drinks covered. Prices start from £38 per person.

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Westgate • Peterborough • PE1 1RB

New Year’s Eve

Masquerade Ball Monday 31th December £170 per adult Check into your room from 2pm followed by Afternoon Tea served between 2:30pm & 4pm. Join us for a pre-dinner reception with cocktails and canapes from 7pm and then sit down to our chefs mouth-watering 4-course menu for all of your party to enjoy! (black tie optional, smart attire) Enjoy live entertainment throughout dinner, then dance the night away courtesy of our resident DJ. Includes overnight accommodation and a Full English breakfast served on New Years Day from 9am-12 noon.

To make a reservation or for more information, please take a brochure or contact our events team on 01733 561 364. events@bull-hotel-peterborough.com • www.peelhotels.co.uk

2018 10 East Life Festive Shopping QP.qxp_107mm h x 71mm

• Spacious Riverfront Garden • Traditional Homemade Pub Classics • Quality Cask Ales & Fine Wines • Free Mooring for Patrons • Electric Boat Hook-Up • Mooring Assistance Available • Children’s Amusements • Large Covered Heated Decking Area • Free Pub Wi-Fi

The New Inn, 54 Lower Street, Horning, NR12 8PF 01692 631223 Booking Advisable

www.newinn-horning.co.uk

Festive Shopping

Get wrapped up this Christmas at Ufford Park Woodbridge

Night

In aid of local charity

an evening for the whole family

Thursday 29th November

6:30pm - 9:00pm

£6 per person

Make it a jolly holiday with a meal at the

King’s Head at Ivinghoe

(includes a drink and canapés) Tickets must be booked and pre-paid

Some stall holders do not have card machines, bring plenty of cash so you don’t miss out!

t 01394 383555 ext. 325 w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW Suffolk Age UK Registered charity number 1085900

Festive Menu @ £29.95 reservations@kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk Tel: 01296 668388 www.kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk Sugar and spice make Christmas nice!

Christmas Party Menu throughout December Works Christmas Parties Family Get Together

Celebrate in style this festive season

Real Reindeer 2nd & 9th December

Discover Hotel Felix where fabulous food, first class service and chic contemporary interiors combine to create the perfect setting for a truly festive celebration.

The Flight of Wines Menu 13th December

Real Trees & Wreaths in Store Breakfast with Santa - Book online Tea with Santa - Book online

Elton, Peterborough, PE8 6SH

Tel: 01832 343104 www.bosworthsgc.co.uk for ite us ebs Men w See stmas i Chr

TO BOOK CALL US ON O 1223 277977 WHITEHOUSE LANE HUNTINGDON RD CAMBRIDGE CB3 OLX

E: help@hotelfelix.co.uk

www.hotelfelix.co.uk

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BOURN GOLF & LEISURE OFFERS YOU A WARM FESTIVE WELCOME

Christmas Party Lunches and Dinners 2 Courses £22.50 & 3 Courses £26.95 Only 7 miles from Cambridge, with easy access and ample free parking, making the perfect venue to celebrate Christmas

www.bourngolfandleisure.co.uk To discuss your needs please email

daniel@bourngolfandleisure.co.uk or call 01954 718057 Bourn Golf and Leisure Club, Toft Road, Bourn, Cambridge CB23 2TT

in association with Jordan Productions present

Frankie Jones as Jack

Nicholas Pound as King Clarence

ONE FROM THE HEART in association with CHELMSFORD CITY THEATRES present

Jon De Ville as Fleshcreep

Tom Lowe as Dame Trott

Written by Chris Jordan Directed and Choreographed by Julia Cave

15 December 2018 - 6 January 2019

Box Office: 01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

Wyllyotts Theatre, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, Herts EN6 2HN

Written and directed by Guy Unsworth Musical Supervision and Arrangements by Ben Kennedy Choreographed by Anthony Whiteman

You shall go to the panto! Written by Amanda French (www.fab-pr.co.uk)

here’s nothing as uniquely British as a trip to the panto at Christmas. Why not enjoy some light-hearted festive escapism with a trip to one of the region’s many fine pantomimes taking place this year? We’ve rounded up some of the best to make choosing even easier.

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BEDFORDSHIRE The 7 to 31 December will see Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs arrive at The Grove Theatre in Dunstable. With Charlie Brooks from EastEnders in the starring role and some familiar faces in the form of Joseph Elliott and Richard David-Caine from CBeebies and Brian Wheeler from Star Wars, there’ll be plenty of famous faces to spot in this classic panto tale. Visit www.grovetheatre.co.uk for more information. Aladdin is coming to the Bedford Corn Exchange from the 22 December until 1 January thanks to the not-forprofit Bedford Pantomime Company. There’ll be a live band along with plenty of mayhem and magic for the whole family. For more information visit www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk CAMBRIDGESHIRE Vivacity Theatre in Peterborough has this year chosen Peter Pan as its panto. Follow the story of the boy who never grew up with an original script filled with magic for the whole family. Running from 6 December until 6 January, there’s plenty of opportunities to enjoy this fabulous show for the whole family. Visit www.vivacity.org/panto to find out more. ESSEX Panto favourite, Peter Pan will also be arriving at the Princes Theatre Clacton from 8 December until 1 January featuring plenty of fun, frolics and festive cheer. There’ll be some stunning special effects, flying and of course, a good sprinkle of fairy dust. Visit www.princestheatre.co.uk to find out more.

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Cinderella at Chelmsford Civic Theatre

Cinderella will be coming to Chelmsford Civic Theatre from 30 November until 6 January. The classic tale will feature the fantastic Ugly Sisters as well as a special appearance from Shetland ponies pulling Cinderella’s carriage. There’ll be plenty of laughs, live music and dance routines in addition to the wonderful cast. For more information visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres. HERTFORDSHIRE The Hawthorne Theatre in Welwyn Garden City will also be staging the classic panto, Aladdin from 15 December until 6 January. There’ll be silliness galore, plenty of local jokes and oodles of fun in this performance which will see the return of local dame, Michael Totton. For more information visit www.cwentertainment.co.uk/shows/ pantomime Wyllots Theatre in Potter’s Bar will be the home of Jack and the Beanstalk this Christmas from 15 December until 6 January. There’ll be spectacular music, stunning sets, sensational costumes and of course, plenty of laughs at this year’s panto. Visit www.tickets.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk for more information and to book tickets.

We’v e Norw teamed u p wit ich Th h offer e one l atre Roya ucky chanc reade l to e r the to its to win a fa dazzl ing p mily ticke antom t ime. Follo w us on Tw @eas itt tm www agazines er .eastl or vis if for m it ore d e.co.uk etails !

Grantchester (left), Dedham Vale (above)

Above; Peter Pan at Vivacity Theatre. Right; Sleeping Beauty at Beccles Theatre

NORFOLK Alive’s Corn Exchange in King’s Lynn will be staging the classic panto, Sleeping Beauty from the 7 until 31 December. Sure to be packed full of plenty of fun, frolics and fabulousness, the panto will also be featuring local children www.kingslynncornexchange. co.uk/whats-on/childrens/sleeping-beauty Norwich Theatre Royal will be hosting the much-loved Aladdin this year starring Rik Makarem, who played Nikhil in Emmerdale. Running from 12 December until 13 January, the panto will also star Hollyoaks favourite Steven Roberts and Milkshake star, Kiera-Nicole Brennan, who plays the genie. Local star Richard Gauntlett will also be back, wearing some outrageous outfits as Widow Twankey. He has also written and directed the whole event. For more information visit www.ntr.org.uk/Aladdin SUFFOLK Beccles Theatre will be falling under the spell of Sleeping Beauty this Christmas as it takes over from 21 until 31 December. Enjoy slapstick comedy, popular

songs and a huge sprinkling of fairy dust, with the return of the much-loved Dame Victoria Sponge. More information can be found at www.becclespublichall.com Pleasurewood Hills in Corton, Lowestoft, will host its first ever pantomime this Christmas with the arrival of Cinderella. Running from 12 to 27 December, the show will feature fantastic special effects, comedy routines and of course, plenty of family fun. Visit www.pleasurewoodhills.com for more information. The enchanting tale of Sleeping Beauty also hits the stage at Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds from 30 November to 13 January. The kingdom will bring magic and mayhem in this classic family friendly pantomime full of goodness, love and laughter. Peak dates are selling quickly so hurry to book your ticket! www.theatreroyal.org/shows/sleeping-beauty

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UPCOMING SHOWS NOVEMBER Fri 9th Sat 10th Sat 17th Tues 20th Friday 23rd Sat 24th Sun 25th

The Greatest Love of All – The Whitney Houston Show Chicago Blues Brothers Victorian Christmas Market Christmas Memories – Matinee You Win Again – Celebrating the Music of the Bee Gees Musical Comedy – The Crooners The Stylistics – 50th Anniversary Tour.

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Box Office: 01255 686633 www.princestheatre.co.uk

Wreath Workshops Written by Ruby Reed Instagram @rubymayree Ruby is the author of ‘Loyal Liar’ available on Amazon

Get creative with a festive floral workshop!

his year is my first Christmas in my new home and of course I am currently deep in thought when it comes to how to decorate. My concerns are currently ranging from serious doubts on whether an adequate tree will fit in that corner…to where can I order some festive cushions from in time? I’m having fun! As I’m thinking what could make the final touches it hits me, I need a wreath. Well we are in luck. It’s a growing trend to get creative by designing and making your very own. There are workshops available locally guaranteeing a great activity experience which is bound to get you in the Christmas spirit. Here are some of our favourites…

Audley End House & Gardens, Saffron Walden, Essex Wreath making at the lovely 17th century house is taking place Thursday 13 & Friday 14 December this year. Included in the adult price of £60 per head is creation of your wreath using the estates resources and a lunch. Sessions run from 10am-2pm. Make sure you book your tickets for this event as places are limited. Tickets are available to purchase by calling 0370 333 1181 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/audley-wreath-making

St Nicholas Chapel, King’s Lynn, Norfolk Back by popular demand! Staff from Deb’s Florist will be there to show you how to foliage and decorate your very own wreath using fresh pine, ivy, holly and traditional

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Christmas flourishes. The very friendly classes are paced to individual needs with endless guidance. Workshops are delivered with the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund. Enjoy the high quality classes at a very low price of just £10 per person, which includes festive refreshments. Again, booking is essential as places are limited. Oh and bring some secateurs with you! Running Friday 30 November & Tuesday 4 December. Contact 01553 774471 to book your place.

The Wallflower & Wallace, Heydon, Norfolk The Wallflower & Wallace are set to be running a series of festive workshops this year. Wreath workshops are taking place on 10 & 11 December where you can join Karen Wheeler for the festive mayhem or try the rustic wreath workshop on the 18 December! No previous floristry experience is needed and you’ll be walking away with your handmade masterpiece, consisting of seasonal foliage and a variety of other materials. Workshops are from 2pm5pm, priced £45pp including festive treats! Other festive workshops include Christmas decorations and table centrepieces. For details visit www.thewallﬂowerandwallace.com

Feather & Ferns, Bourn, Cambridgeshire The ladies are back! After a successful floral crown workshop earlier this year, Feather & Ferns return this time with festive opportunities. There are two sessions on Saturday 1 December and a Christmas table centre workshop on the 16 December, taking place at the beautiful wilderness surroundings of PAUS in Bourn. At £50 per person Feather & Ferns are doing what they do best. Find them at www.pauscambridge.com/workshops

The Baldock Flower Farm, Hertfordshire For ÂŁ45 per head including materials and refreshments, here you can create a special piece in a relaxed and informal workshop. You will be guided through the process of making your own fresh foliage wreath, adding fabulous embellishments to ensure a completely unique finish. Places are selling out fast but are scheduled throughout November and December including evening classes! To book visit www.thebaldockďŹ&#x201A;owerfarm.co.uk

Images: Feather & Ferns, photos by Hannah Duffy www.hannahduffy.com

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The Ultimate Gift Guide for Women I

t’s the most wonderful time of the year, but finding the perfect present can be tricky. If you’re in need of a little inspiration, we’ve pulled together a selection of gorgeous gifts to suit all budgets…

Bee Happy! This 925 sterling silver set, plated with gold, makes the perfect gift this Christmas. Prices: Pendant £42,

Bracelet £53,

Earrings £36

Available from Cloud Nine Gems, St Ives www.cloudninegems.com

Perfect for any beauty fans! Get party ready with the Elizabeth Arden eight hour cream beauty set. Price: £42 www.very.co.uk

Stuck for a gift idea for the artist in your life? PhotoART GB’s vouchers, ranging from £10 to £100 are redeemable against any of their services, from Fine Art Giclée Printing to Picture Framing. These are also ideal for anyone who is getting married next year and will want their treasured wedding photographs framed! Available from www.facebook.com/photoartgb/shop or by calling 01223 834411

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She asked us to tell you, it’s a Pebble Gift Voucher she wants this Christmas www.pebble-sanctuary.com 01462 458885 17-18 Bucklersbury, Hitchin, SG5 1BB Cambridgeshire (2, 3, 4, 5)_Cambridgeshire 25/08/2015 16:38 Page 1

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Whether you’re after the perfect piece for an exclusive event, the holiday of a lifetime or simply because you deserve a treat, Elouise Lingerie has a stunning collection that is hard to match. The Cambridgeshire-based designer boutique stocks sophisticated lingerie from international brands, along with glamorous swimwear, luxury nightwear and fine hosiery - everything you need to feel extra special. Gift-wrapping available.

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

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With a new name and new stores, your favourite shopping destination just got even better. For the latest news and information visit ClactonShoppingVillage.com or ďŹ nd us across social media.

There’s always one gift you can rely on at Christmas…lingerie! Impress with this luxury Italian set from Elouise. Price: Jaguar by Ambra Bra £99 brief £49 Available from Elouise Lingerie, Buckden www.elouiselingerie.co.uk

G&T time! Perfect party cocktails with this handcrafted bar board with personalisation included, made from Holder & Hook’s home grown Norfolk oak. Price: £36

www.holderandhook.co.uk

Up, up & away! A stylish gift for jet setters. Keep jewellery organised with this pretty personalised square travel jewellery box, available in lavender or grey Price: £28 Buy online at www.lisaangel.co.uk or order in-store at Lisa Angel on Lower Goat Lane or Chapelfield stores.

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Price: Passport holder £28, travel wallet £25 www.debenhams.com

Add a festive touch to the home with these beautiful handmade glass reindeers. Price: £20 - £34 Available from Seahorse Studio, Holt www.facebook.com/seahorsestudioholt

Pick up the perfect present at VK Gallery Tall Bottle Vase £60 Corked Bottle £28 Knitted Purse £18 Flower Sculpture £19 Ceramic Wren Dish £28 Ceramic Houses £13-£20 Lavender Bundle £12 Available from VK Gallery, St Ives www.vkgallery.co.uk

If you know someone in need of a little R&R, give them the gift of revitalisation with the Elemis Peptide 24/7 Amethyst Face Roller Collection – guaranteed to give skin a refresh! Price: £94 www.elemis.com/ peptide-amethyst-roller-collection

Add a touch of romance to that special someone’s life. This beautiful curve candle will make a luxurious gift. Designed and made in England Price: £45 Available from Dedham Art & Craft, Dedham www.dedhamartandcraftcentre.co.uk

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ian stacey photography

Ian Stacey Photography 01353 776267

Earsham Home Furnishings

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

Open –daily - Bank holiday opening–times 10am to 5pm Monday - Saturday 9.00am 5.00pm • Sunday 10.00pm 4.00pm • Bank Holidays 9.00am – 5.00pm Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: enquiries@earshamhomefurnishings.co.uk Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: earshamhomefurnishings.co.uk- -Web: Web:www.earshamhomefurnishing.co.uk www.earshamhall.co.uk

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The Ultimate Gift Guide for Men Are you ready to face the challenge of Ely’s Escape Room? Price: £90.00 per Escape Room for up to 8 people Booking at www.olivercromwellshouse.co.uk

The perfect stocking filler for any keen golfer. Price: £8

Wall mounted magnetic bottle opener, handcrafted from Norfolk oak. Price: £36 www.holderadnhook.co.uk

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Discover hordes of practical gifts at affordable prices in a tranquil setting! Available from: Sutton Pottery, Norfolk www.suttonpottery.com

A comprehensive range of childhood favourites and new. Try the handmade chocolates! Available from: Arcadia Sweetshop 11 The Arcade, Bedford www.arcadiasweetshop.com

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The perfect gift for Christmas from the awardwinning brewery The Norfolk Brewhouse; 10 hand picked beers including the Michelin star chef Galton Blackiston’s No.1’s, and a Moon Gazer Glass. Price: £29.99 Available from: Beers of Europe, Norfolk www.beersofeurope.co.uk/catalog/product/view/ id/20681/s/norfolk-brewhouse-gift-pack

Christmas calls for a post-dinner tipple Price: £14.99 www.johnlewis.com

Find out your family history with Living DNA, a simple home DNA test which uncovers your ancestry stretching back 10 generations and gives an in-depth overview covering 80 regions worldwide including 21 in the UK. The perfect present for family members! Price: £99 www.livingdna.com

The ultimate gift for those with a sweet tooth! Price: £80 www.hotelchocolat.com/uk

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Dog friendly

Tails about town Written by Emma Kemsley

A Weekend in Woodbridge It’s easy to fall in love with Suffolk; wonderful walks by the water, cute cottages and friendly faces – the list goes on, but last month myself (and Fletcher) fell so deeply in love that I’ve spent the last few weeks searching Right Move for houses. Our new found crush is all thanks to Suffolk Holiday Cottage’s newest holiday home, The Old Warehouse; a stunning three bed holiday let in the delightful town of Woodbridge. When a holiday home ticks all the boxes and oozes style, describing it as a ‘home away from home’ seems the obvious choice, but this is not the case. The Old Warehouse goes beyond that, as quite frankly, it is so much better than my own home in every aspect. Putting a traditional stamp on a contemporary mezzanine design, interiors resemble a New York loft – who would have thought a property this quirky could be hiding down a small back street in Woodbridge? The home is fully equipped, full of high tech features and offers everything you need for a dog friendly or family break, and I mean everything – we were tempted to use the picnic basket but I knew a muddy Fletcher would ruin the autumnal scene I was imagining. The property welcomes two dogs to stay, a plus for us as our friends and their dog Juno were joining my husband and I. A welcome pack was laid out for us on arrival which included a guide to the area, the usual essentials and eggs from the owner’s rescue hens! However, it was the informative guide for canine visitors that offered something extra. As well as doggy treats, which instantly got the approval from Fletcher, there was a whole folder dedicated to local dog walks and recommendations for dog friendly dining – this became our bible for the weekend. Friday was spent enjoying a lovely walk along the River Deben in the glorious late afternoon sunshine,

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FACT FILE

The Old Warehouse Sleeps 6 in 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 2 dogs allowed Price from £544 for a 3-night short break or £725 per week (low season) to £908 for a 3-night short break to £1,210 high season. How to book: Suffolk Cottage Holidays Tel: 01394 389 189 www.suﬀolkcottageholidays.com

and Fletcher and Juno wasted no time heading straight for the silky mud and splashing in the low tide. Both sporting mud socks, they ran up and down the banks until we were sure they were worn out. Not wanting to cover the house in stinky silt, we found a tap near the boatyard to wash them down, however I later discovered The Old Warehouse has a handy outdoor tap for muddy paws. Fletcher naughtily finished the walk with a leap and splash into the model boating pond at The Tea Hut. That evening we visited the King’s Head on the Market Hill for dinner, browsing the windows of the independent boutiques on the short five minute walk from the property. Both dogs were welcomed with a treat on arrival, given fresh water, and while we ate dinner they dined on pigs ears from the pubs ‘Mutts Menu’. There’s even a wall of photos dedicated to doggy visitors. The next morning I carefully chose a dog walk from the guide. I picked a walk which had minimal water as Juno isn’t very good at swimming, no cars as Fletcher has no road sense and a limited amount of foot traffic as nobody wants a two hyper dogs bounding up to them. I thought I had

has no killer instinct and just enjoys the chase. So be warned, this walk is great but not one for gun dogs. Correction…not one for badly behaved spaniels. I’d like to say we learnt our lesson but unfortunately not. This happened twice. I have Juno to thank for coming back pretty quickly the second time around as Fletcher followed. She doesn’t like being out of sight of her owners unlike Fletcher who goes voluntarily deaf and is quite happy to have his own adventure.

found the perfect one hour walk; timed well for lunch and to avoid the rainy forecast. Starting and ending at The Ramsholt Arms it was a great walk to explore this area’s countryside and finish with a pub lunch, however I forgot one minor detail…it’s gaming season!

When the rain fell later that day, we spent the afternoon warming up in front of the fire at The Old Warehouse, playing board games and enjoying a home cooked meal. The bad weather didn’t faze us as it meant we got to make the most of this fabulous rental.

Five minutes in and pheasants were flying and squawking in every direction, chased by a determined Fletcher and his spaniel instincts, followed by a confused Juno who didn’t really know what was going on but wasn’t going to miss out on the fun. The corn wavered around, the birds took flight, Fletcher popped up here and there, but refused to come back. It was carnage!

When the sun returned the next day, we visited Orford, where I lost my heart to this part of Suffolk. Watching Fletcher run up and down the banks, splashing in the water and leaping with pure joy through the air, was wonderful. Add to that a stroll admiring the pretty cottages covered in autumn leaves, a wander around the castle, oysters at The Butley Orford Oysterage and sweet treats from the Pump Street Bakery, and I can honestly say a stay at The Old Warehouse offers a wonderful slice of Suffolk!

After a hair raising 10 minutes, we managed to get both panting dogs back on the lead, and no pheasants were harmed. It amazes me that despite not being a working spaniel or having any gun training, that those breed traits are strong, and Fletcher just can’t help himself around a pheasant or deer. Thankfully he

With attractions such as the Suffolk Punch Trust, Rendlesham Forest and Sutton Heath, all of which are dog friendly, and gastro pubs such as The Crown, The Oyster Inn and the Unruly Pig close by, it’s the perfect location to enjoy a weekend break at any time of the year!

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Written by

Karen Rhodes

Pawsitively W too early for the...

ork parties, Christmas markets and pantomimes, it has to be the busiest time of the year. It’s never too early to get organised, so when you’re planning your events, plan for your dog at the same time. Did you know that a lot of savvy dog owners book their dog care before they make their own arrangements? Don’t leave it to the last minute or you’ll find all the best dog carers will be booked up.

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Here’s a run down of some of the options available for your dog’s care and questions you should ask before booking.

1. Boarding kennels Often set in the countryside with lots of land, boarding kennels are probably the best option if you’re on a budget. Dogs are kept in separate heated kennels and should have access to indoor and outdoor runs and will have a minimum of one walk per day.

2. House sitters House sitters will come to your home and look after your dog as well as your property. This is a great option if you want your house to appear lived in for security reasons. If you think your dog would be more settled in their own home, a house sitter will be able to keep pretty much to their usual routine.

3. Home boarding Home boarders will take your dog into their own home and look after them as if they were their own. They’ll be living as part of the family and with your permission, will have other dogs staying too. They’ll have a fun filled break with lots of love and cuddles.

Questions to ask before booking: • Are they licensed? Kennels and home boarders are required to be licensed by the council and should display their license in a prominent position or have available for you to view.

• Are they insured? Whatever option you chose, they must be insured for public liability and be willing to show you their certificate.

• Are they qualified? The safety and security of your pet is important so they must have a minimum of an emergency first aid certificate, preferably having qualifications in animal care too.

• Are they DBS checked? For house sitters it’s advisable for them to be DBS (disclosure and barring service) checked, after all they’ll have access to your home and contents! A good house sitter will have this and be willing to show you.

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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In the darkest and most painful of times, EACH has been

Rob Dodsworth Photography

our lifeline.

Your legacy can help EACH be there for future generations, helping every child make the most of life – no matter how short. To receive your information pack call 01223 800807 or email supportercare@each.org.uk www.each.org.uk • Registered charity number:1069284 a1135 EACH Legacy Ad 107mmH x 148mmW.indd 1

EAST ANGLIA’S PREMIER CHRISTMAS FAIR

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free parking* Cambridge Park & Ride – Taking you into the heart of Cambridge Open seven days a week Buses depart every 10 minutes (Mon-Sat) until 6.30pm and every 20 minutes after Every 15 minutes (9am – 6pm) Sundays and public holidays

Invites you to attend The Millennium Stand Rowley Mile Racecourse Newmarket CB8 0TF

FRIDAY 23TH NOVEMBER 5.30 - 8.30PM SATURDAY 24TH NOVEMBER 10.00AM - 5.00PM SUNDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 10.00AM - 4.00PM ADMISSION TICKET £7 WWW.PRESENTSGALORE.ORG Wendy Milbank: wendy.milbank@gmail.com Macmillan Cancer Support receives all entrance money and benefits from everything you buy with 10% of the takings.

FREE PARKING & RESTAURANT Registered Charity No. 261017

Tickets: Park & Ride Return, £3 and with this ticket up to three children travel for free Park & Ride Group Ticket, £8.50 (purchased from driver), allows a group of up to 5 people to travel together. Park & Ride Weekly Ticket, £14 and valid for 7 days Contactless payments are now accepted on all Park & Ride services Concessionary pass holders travel for free with their passes after 9.30am Monday to Friday, and all day at the weekend and on bank holidays. *Parking is free for up to 18 hours. Charges apply for longer stays, see www.cambridgeparkandride.info for more

Further information: www.cambridgeparkandride.info

MUM’s The Word

Little East

Written by Dolly Osborne

Public Service Announcements R

emember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot. I see no reason why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot.

Except it is really, isn’t it? You don’t look forward to Bonfire Night and think: “Ooh yay! A time to reflect on a foiled assassination on King James the first of England, the sixth of Scotland. What a joyous event!”. Instead, if you are like me, you think: “Ooh I should bake some potatoes, and eat tiffin, and maybe buy some sparklers.” And, if you are like the many, many people I see across social media, you will be thinking: “Why does bonfire night seem to last a month? Why are people letting off fireworks when it’s still light?! Why can’t they just ban fireworks because it’s utterly unbearable?” And ultimately: “… it wasn’t like this in my day!!!” And you know what? As much as I love Bonfire Night and the crisp, evening air being heavy with sulphur, I begrudgingly admit they are right; the incessant banging that fills every November evening wasn’t as bad when I was younger. And I have a theory as to why… Public Service Announcements. See, in the 70s and 80s a Public Service Announcement wasn’t something you wrote on Facebook before ranting about your bugbear of the day. Instead they were unnecessarily terrifying adverts that warned the public of the dangers of railway lines or river swimming, of grain

pits or flying kites near pylons, and at this time of year, of fireworks. Those things were brutal. Whole generations of children who thought you needed full body armour to go near the government standard biscuit tin containing the rockets that were to be lit AT ARMS LENGTH down your grandad’s allotment. Fireworks were seen as serious business; on par with electrocution and suffocation by grain. We wouldn’t have dreamed of letting them off down the park for fun (I’ll admit that some children did but they were the ones destined for borstal). The Public Service Announcements may well have caused a nightmare epidemic that stretched over two decades, but at least then the bumps in the night were in the kid’s bedrooms rather than hitting their windows. So, if you want an end to the scourge of November bangs and flashes maybe you should campaign for their return? Though you will have to be prepared for the flashbacks of a sad child with a preposterously bandaged hand every time you see a sparkler. But for a bit of peace is that not a small price to pay?

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

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Advertorial

CHRISTMAS VISITS CHRISTMAS at Bressingham VISITS at Bressingham

Father Christmas is coming to Bressingham on selected days in December

Father Christmas is coming to Bressingham Sat 3 Dec 2016 to Sat 24 Dec 2016 on selected days in December. Rudolph is away on his holidays so Santa decided

Sat 1sthisDecember to Car for the journey to to use old faithful Steam Monday Norfolk. 24th December Rudolph away hiselves, holidays decided toon use his He and is his wifeon and will so beSanta at Bressingham old faithful Steam Car for the journey to Norfolk. the 3/4, 10/11, 17,18 and 21,22,23,24 December 2016. Entry times vary depending on the day.

He and his wife and elves, will be at Bressingham on the 1/2, 8/9, 15/16, and 21, 22, 23, 24 December 2018. Thistimes year vary Santa is including: Entry depending on the day. A ride onthe the24th Steam the 2pm Nursery Lineclose for All• days but haveTrain entryonfrom to 5pm noeveryone. earlier than 6pm. 9, 15, 16 have an additional 12pm to 2pm entry slot, 24th has an 11am to 2pm entry slot and • For those up to the age of 12 a visit to Father we will close earlier. Why not stay all afternoon and visit Christmas and a present from him. Walmington on Sea at Christmas. • Rides on the Gallopers are included too.

This year Santa is including:

• The Dads Army Exhibition will be decorated for

andSteam a Childrens entertainer will be in the • Christmas A ride on the Train on the Village Hall. for everyone Fen Railway •There will be food available at Wyevale if you arrive

• For those up to the age of 12 a visit to Father before Santa is ready and at The Steam Museum too Christmas and a present from him. Rides on the during your visit. Gallopers are included too. is Army advisable and can by telephone • Booking The Dads Exhibition willbe bemade decorated for on 01379 686900, online orentertainer in person at the Christmas and a Children’s will beticket in the office. can also will choose to pay on theatday VillageYou Hall. There be food available Wyevale if you arrive Santa is ready and at The Steam (if tickets arebefore still available), Ticket numbers are Museum limited sotoo it’s during best toyour bookvisit. online.

Adult (advance) tickets are £11.55 Advanced tickets are offered at discounted rates: Children (advance) 3-12 £14.85 Adult tickets are £11.55 under 3’s (advance) requiring a present are £7.15

Children aged 3-12 are £14.85 under 3’s requiring and a present £7.15 Booking is advisable can beare made by telephone on

01379 686900 or in person at the ticket office. Tickets on the day to willpay be on £1 per person more are still You can also choose the day (if tickets than in advance. All prices Aid to book available), Ticket numbers areinclude limited£1 soGift it’s best online. donation. All offer types (including Tesco Deals) are excluded from use at this event.

Tickets on the day will be £1 per person more than in advance.

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There’s plenty to see and do on Mersea Island all year round. Our owners enjoy endless days out with the family, from exploring country parks to going crabbing. Autumn is great for getting wrapped up and taking a leisurely walk along the stunning coastline, taking in views of the Blackwater Estuary whilst looking out for migrating birds. Coopers Beach Holiday Park has direct beach access from park, with a boat launching facility perfect for those who want to explore the south east coast. Our fabulous new Boathouse Bar & Restaurant has stunning views over the estuary and is the perfect setting to enjoy a new pace of life.

Give us a call today on 01206 586465 to book your Owner Experience Day and enjoy: Free use of our amazing park facilities for the day+

Tour our stunning park settings

Browse inside a great range of caravans and lodges for sale

Enjoy lunch on us< (subject to availability)

For further information visit parkdeanresorts.co.uk/own-coo Coopers Beach Holiday Park, Church Lane, East Mersea, Mersea Island, Colchester, Essex, CO5 8TN *Prices vary between models and Parkdean Resorts parks. Subject to availability. All prices include VAT. Images are for illustration purposes. +Facilities and entertainment will be available from time to time at the discretion of Parkdean Resorts and is usually indicated in the current Parkdean Resorts holiday brochure. <Free lunch is for a maximum 4 people, applies to food only maximum value of £40. Subject to availability, please confirm with the park at the time of booking. ^On selected models and pitches.

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22/10/2018 16:15

Christmas Magic for Kids Written by Amanda French (Instagram @fabpublicrelations)

e’ve rounded up the very best Christmas activities in the region to help keep your little ones entertained and full of the Christmas spirit throughout the season. Cambridgeshire Take the kids to the Cambridge Corn Exchange to enjoy the classic Christmas ballet, ‘The Nutcracker’. Saint Petersburg Classic Ballet returns to Cambridge Corn Exchange from 29-31 December with two Tchaikovsky favourites, The Nutcracker and Swan Lake. Under the expert direction of Marina Medvetskaya, this acclaimed company combines classical training and technique with the best-loved Russian ballets, accompanied by a full orchestra, to entertain audiences in breath-taking style. The remake might be available at the cinema, but nothing beats the beauty of ballet for this festive tale. Book your tickets at www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk/cornex/events/ nutcracker-saint-petersburg-classic-ballet There’s no need to pay thousands to jet to the northern hemisphere for a North Pole experience, it’s right here in Cambridge. Returning for another year of frozen frolics, is the North Pole Festival at Parkers Piece in Cambridge. From 17 November to 8 January, visitors to the city can have the ultimate Christmas experience with ice skating, fun fair rides and winter warmers at the Alpine lodge. Tickets are on sale now, head to www.thenorthpolecambridge.co.uk

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Essex Hop aboard the Santa Express at Audley End Miniature Railway and travel into the woodland to discover the magic of Christmas on selected dates between 24 November and 24 December. Cheeky elves will keep your little ones entertained as they arrive at Father Christmas’s Winter Wonderland. Once back from the journey, children can enjoy writing a letter to Santa, crafts, storytelling and a dance tent. Prices between £11 to £15. This is a hugely popular event so book your tickets quick at www.audleyend-railway.co.uk/events/christmas-special-2018

Suffolk There will be another sprinkling of Christmas magic in Ipswich this year at the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) lantern walk. The walk on Saturday, 24 November starts and finishes at DanceEast in Foundry Lane, taking in just over two kilometres of the waterfront in between. Proceedings will be drawn to a close with some festive entertainment and refreshments. Tickets for the lantern walk cost £10. Registration for the lantern walk is from 5.30pm, with the event to have ended by 9pm. For more information visit www.each.org.uk

Norfolk The Thursford Christmas Spectacular is bringing festive fun to Norfolk once again at the Thursford Collection from 6 November to 23 December. One of Europe’s biggest and most anticipated festive events, and now in its 41st year, this staple of the Christmas season boasts 65 musical numbers, glittering

costumes, a troupe of dancers from across the West End and Broadway and is set to entertain over 110,000 people from up and down the country. The extravaganza is a dazzling festive celebration of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety, featuring a wealth of acts from outstanding performers, many of whom have frequented the nation’s most coveted stages. It might only be October, but tickets to this seasonal showcase sell out fast! Prices from £37 – £47. Book at www.thursford.com/christmasspectacular

Hertfordshire Lee Valley White Water Centre’s Christmas attraction is back for 2018. For the third year running the venue will host an array of seasonal activities and entertainment for families and friends to enjoy throughout the festive period. The Christmas destination will run for just over five weeks from Saturday 1 December to Sunday 6 January 2019 and will feature an ice rink, curling lanes, a Santa’s grotto and fun fair. Visitors can get into the Christmas spirit with a skate on the venue’s real ice rink. Available from Friday to Sunday, ticket prices for ice skating start from £5pp and include a 45 minute session on the ice. New for

2018, the venues ice rink will also feature four real ice curling lanes, for visitors to experience a taste of the winter Olympic sport. For those wanting to pick up some last minute stocking fillers, a Christmas market will be open on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 December. With quirky gifts to dazzling decorations, the free entry market offers an opportunity to discover a host of presents for Christmas. No festive day out would be complete without a visit to Santa’s grotto. Here, children can enjoy an enchanting experience meeting with the big man himself. Father Christmas is available to visit on weekends between 10:30am – 6pm and on Christmas Eve. Pre book tickets at gowhitewater.co.uk

Bedfordshire It’s never too early to plan in advance, head on over to Bedford’s Corn Exchange for Santa’s Christmas Party on 20 December. Jack Frost has been causing mischief up at the North Pole and needs your help to fix it. Enjoy a show packed with festive fun and party games, with a present from Father Christmas for every child. Aimed at 2 to 7 year olds, this is a perfect adventure for the little ones. Find out more at www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk/events/ whats-on The Dunstable Downs is once again running their Christmas Trail, this year based on the 12 days of Christmas. Pick up your leaflet at reception and follow the clues, singing as you go. Looking to have some time with the big man himself? Then head over to The View Café for breakfast with Father Christmas who’ll be there to chat with children at various dates in December. To find out more about the trail and the breakfast visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

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Education

pen days are coming to end, but there’s still time to make a decision about the right school for your child with a visit to one of these independent schools across the region… St Faith’s School Trumpington Road, Cambridge CB2 8AG Tel: 01223 352073 | www.stfaiths.co.uk Open day: Call directly to arrange a personal tour of the school. An independent school for girls and boys aged 4-13 years, with a distinctively future-focused curriculum, outstanding facilities and inspiring teachers.

Bedford Girls’ School Cardington Road, Bedford, MK42 0BX Tel: 01234 361900 | www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Open day: 14 November A vibrant independent day school for girls aged 7-18. Northampton High School Newport Pagnell Road, Hardingstone, Northampton NN4 6UU Tel: 01604 765765 | www.northamptonhigh.co.uk Open days: Early Years Family Fun morning 17 November and Junior School STEM taster day 17 November. An independent day school for girls aged from 3 – 18 years.

The Leys School Fen Causeway, Cambridge CB2 7AD Tel: 01223 508900 | www.theleys.net Open days: General opening morning 9 February and 27 April 2019. A co-educational independent day and boarding school for children aged 11 to 18. Colchester County High School for Girls Norman Way, Colchester CO3 3US Tel: 01206 576973 | www.cchsg.com Open day: Sixth Form Open Evening 1 November The school provides education for girls to help prepare and inspire them for the next stages in life. The school promotes high aspiration and ambition within individuals. Oxford House School 2-4 Lexden Road, Colchester, Essex CO3 3NE Tel: 01206 576686 | www.oxfordhouseschool.net Open day: 8 November Located in a beautiful Victorian building the Nursery & Preparatory School provides education for girls and boys aged 2 1/2 to 11 years.

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Let them be curious. Let them be inspired. Let them learn.

I believe in the spirit of inquiry Open Morning Wednesday 14th November, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; School is part of The Harpur Trust

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Saturday 17th November 10am to 12 noon For further details please visit our website or call 01234 369555 Pilgrims Pre Preparatory School Brickhill Drive, Bedford MK41 7QZ

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The Preparatory Division at New Hall School is expanding to 3 form entry in Years 3, 4 & 5 in September 2019 Registration is now open Please contact the Admissions Department on 01245 236 098 or via registrar@newhallschool.co.uk for more information New Hall School, The Avenue, Boreham, Essex. CM3 3HS www.newhallschool.co.uk

ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL HARPENDEN

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I believe in living a balanced life Open Morning Wednesday 14th November, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

A warm welcome awaits you in this popular local Cafe in the centre of the historic Town of Clare We serve a full breakfast menu and light lunches with seasonal daily specials. A selection of teas and locally roasted coffee, ground to order make this cafe a welcome rest after a days shopping!

Christmas hampers made to order with no minimum spend 1 High Street, Clare CO10 8NY 01787 278932 - kent.palmer@btinternet.com Opening Times : Monday to Saturday – 9am-5pm

Why not try our sister cafe, Platform One? Situated in Clare’s beautiful country park 16 Priors Park, Milton Keynes MK4 2bt

Phone: 07910 944 826

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Using as much locally sourced produce as possible, the aim of the team at the Picnic is to provide customers with a relaxed dining experience; Our Table service offers advice when making choices from our daily changing Picnic counter. Or why not opt for the more traditional Brunch style dishes which are cooked to order, inc gluten free & vegetarian options. Coffee & cake are a real must when visiting the Picnic, our daily cake selection reflects our team. Never dull, fun & unusual, you never quite know what the flavour’s will be today.

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Food&Drink news

Food & Drink

Sourcing local produce is now easier than ever

Novi dra cocktail

There’s no better time to shop local than at Christmas, but many of us are unaware of just how many farm shops, butchers and grocers are located on our doorstep. If you fancy a taste of home this festive season, log on to BigBarn, a handy website which allows you to search by postcode retailers, producers and suppliers in your local area. There’s even a dedicated turkey map! Not only will you get fresh tasty produce but you’re more likely to reduce excess plastic packaging and you’ll be supporting the local community and economy. Visit www.bigbarn.co.uk

Pop Open the Fizz at Slug & Lettuce Bedford With sales of the notorious Pornstar Martini hitting 1.3 million across its bars last year, Slug & Lettuce Bedford has your fizzy fix sorted this autumn with its new ‘Giant Pornstar Martini’. A concoction of smashed Smirnoff vanilla vodka, passion fruit liqueur, caramel syrup, lemon juice, pineapple juice and passion fruit puree, plus a bottle of Prosecco on the side, and giant sparkler, it’s guaranteed to be a hit this party season! In addition, the Pornstar Martini Tree will feature nine cocktails and is the perfect antidote for a girl’s night out- definitely worthy of an Insta snap! www.slugandlettuce.co.uk

Accolades keep coming for West Suffolk Restaurant Tuddenham Mill, the three-rosette restaurant and boutique hotel between Bury St Edmunds and Newmarket, has recently been named as one of only a handful of hotels to win the coveted Editor’s Choice Award in the 2019 edition of the Good Hotel Guide as well as the ‘Notable Wine List’ award from the AA for the third year running. Tuddenham Mill’s Chef Patron, Lee Bye said: “Editor’s Choice in the Good Hotel Guide is an amazing honour. We’ve built up a wine list that’s a real mix of traditional flavours, and we’re not afraid to throw in some modern flourishes. It’s a reflection on how we run the hotel and restaurant really, so it’s great that we’re being recognised for it.” Tuddenham Mill has also received awards from the AA and others for accommodation, food and wine. www.tuddenhammill.co.uk

Suffolk’s newest destination café opens this November Located at Fornham Business Court, just five minutes outside Bury St Edmunds, Folk Café is the latest addition to the Suffolk food scene. Set within a timber framed converted barn, the café will be serving up a simple but tasty menu of artisan coffee and bread from local suppliers, plus hearty homemade breakfasts, lunches and snacks. The café is the perfect pit stop for cyclists, dog walkers or those want to a break from the hustle and bustle of the town. www.folk.cafe

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

Foodie

Holiday memories of a globetrotter foodie Travel and food have always been in my blood. From the early teens, I was the person in the family who would map out the journeys and wouldn’t hesitate to add a twist whilst en route. These off the beaten track detours became known as ‘Gerla’s shortcuts’, which would take us most of the time miles away from where we were heading for. Nothing has changed over the years. Google map is a great tool, but there is nothing better than a proper map as you can’t always rely on a mobile connection. One thing maps don’t do is surprise you by the surroundings so I always follow my eyes and it has taken us to some quite unusual finds! Including nice places to eat and drink. Food is always on top of my agenda when I travel or visit a place. My eyes always get drawn to food, even when I am out shopping. I used to be a buyer so I always scan shops for new products and trends, especially in the food and drink section. So it might not surprise you, that my holiday memories are often based around the food I have had or restaurants with amazing views. I can remember every single place where I have eaten with the most stunning sceneries. It is a very important part of enjoying a meal in my opinion. Of course, I snap away to record the delicious food, but I take notes too so I can either find the recipe online or try to figure out myself how to reproduce it.

Image: Alimentum

So what are my latest holiday foodie memories and where to go in Cambridge to get something similar? Split - Bruschetta drowned in red wine and topped with chunky tomato sauce Comfort food - The Petersfield and the Punter Verona - Ricotta Gnocchi and truffle and Spaghetti with raw creamed oyster Good Italian food - Gattuso’s Bray - Heston Blumenthal’s breakfast starter Mind-blowing creations - Midsummer House Cartmel - Truffle bread and butter pudding at L’Enclume Pushing the boundaries - Restaurant 22 and Alimentum Paternoster - Foraged succulents Foraged food - the Cambridge Cheese Company London - Masala chickpeas and curry leaves at Scully Restaurant Excellent Indian food - Prana lounge and Navadhanya Hanoi - Beatle leaves and Pho Asian comfort food - Zhonghua and Noodles +

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On the Table I

f there’s one time of year to go all out with the food shop and indulge, it’s Christmas! The festive season has us wanting to serve up only the very best to our friends and family. If you’re hosting this year, we’ve picked our favourite festive foods to put on your table…

Say Cheese It wouldn’t be Christmas without a cheese board. From brie and camembert to stilton and smoked, choosing cheese is a big decision. It’s a wise choice to visit your local deli counter for some expert advice. The Gog, Cambridge’s award winning farm shop, deli and café, know a thing or two about cheese, and shop and deli manager Lydia, their resident expert when it comes to all things cheese, suggests opting for their ‘Traditional Cheese Selection’ priced £38. The package comes with Coston Bassett, Montgomery’s cheddar and Baron Bigod. “You’ve got all you need; a blue, a soft and a hard,” says Lydia. “Baron is locally made in Bungay, Suffolk by John and Dolce Crickmore. The Gog team have been to visit their farm and experienced hands on the cheese making process. Baron is a fantastic cheese, one of the most popular in our counter, the flavours are clean and milky with mushroomy, vegetal notes! “Montgomery’s cheddar is made in Somerset, in the village of Cadbury, by our good friend Jamie Montgomery. We have also been to his farm on a quick whistle stop tour to see how it’s made. Montgomery’s is a firm favourite, buttery texture with bold earthy tones and used in our 2 star Great Taste award winning Gog cheese scones.

“Colston Basset is the best of the blues! Home of the traditional Stilton in Northamptonshire. It’s hard to beat with its fabulous creamy smooth texture, and fruity floral flavours.” The Gog also offer an award-winning butchery, and if you haven’t yet found the perfect present for someone, one of their hampers, stocking fillers or masterclasses could be your answer! The farm shop will be hosting a Christmas Showcase on 3 and 24 November, and will be launching a competition to win your Christmas order for free if placed before 18 November. www.thegog.com A block of Montgomery’s cheddar

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Proof is in the pudding Festive food is indulgent and hearty, and can often leave vegans feeling a little left out. However, this year things have finally changed and producers are adding more animal free options to their Christmas collections. It doesn’t just stop with huge retailers like M&S either, local producers are expanding their range too. LilyPuds, an Essex artisan Christmas pud maker, have launched a vegan Christmas pudding meaning no one misses out on dessert. The pudding is light and delicious, and it would be difficult to tell the difference between the traditional and vegan versions. Using vine fruits, Chockwork orange beer, ginger, almonds, apple and spices, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. It’s also gluten free! www.lillypuds.co.uk

Tasty tipple Think fresh juniper aromas and herbal scents, balanced with a touch of spice, hints of sweetness and fragrant citrus: that’s the essence of Norfolk Gin. Handmade in Norwich with real botanicals. One of the original new breed of artisan gins in the UK, Norfolk Gin was first created in 2014 by Jonathan and Alison Redding in their kitchen, located in the city of Norwich. Now available across the East of England and beyond, every batch of Norfolk Gin is still made by hand, and with love, in their Norwich gin studio. Whether in a classic gin and tonic or a superstylish Singapore Sling, Norfolk Gin is great for seasonal soirees and the perfect present for any gin-lover this Christmas. Norfolk Gin is available in a 70cl (RRP £42 £45) bottle. www.norfolkgin.co.uk/buy-now

Christmas canapes If you’re hosting a festive gathering and fancy polishing your cookery skills, book a place onto the ‘Christmas Canape Masterclass’ at Paris House, in Woburn on 11, 23 or 25 November. Priced £169 per person, you’ll be taught by award-winning chef Phil Fanning in an interactive, hands-on course which will give provide the skills needed to produce bite-sized treats worthy of the finest drinks party. The Masterclass will be hosted in the Paris House kitchen and will last approximately two hours. This will be followed by a glass of bubbles & canapés and a 5 course lunch at the Chef’s Table. Additional lunch guests are welcome to join at a cost of £99 per head. www.parishouse.co.uk

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Winter Workouts Written by Tessa Beecroft

s a personal trainer, you spend quite some time trying to figure out what your speciality is (or if you even have one!). I knew my speciality was within mental health and fitness, having gone through my own journey of severe anxiety and depression for several years. Winter is a difficult time of year to get motivated to do any type of exercise. It’s cold, the nights are drawing in and all you want to do is curl up on the sofa with comfy socks on and a hot chocolate.

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It’s even more difficult for those who experience SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). SAD is a form of depression that people experience at a particular time of year or during a particular season and is a recognised mental health disorder. Most of us are affected by the change in seasons – it is normal to feel more cheerful and energetic when the sun is shining and the days are longer, or to find that you eat more or sleep longer in winter. However, if you experience SAD, the change in seasons will have a much greater affect on your mood and energy levels, and lead to symptoms of depression that may have a significant impact on your day-to-day life.

Health

Exercising during the winter can help protect your wellbeing over the season. Physical activity will help reduce stress, improve sleep and energy levels, boost self-esteem and ultimately ward off those feelings of depression and anxiety.

So here are my tips on how to get more active during winter: 1. Work out during the day. As the nights draw in, some of us may not even see daylight before work and getting home. This can lower your mood and motivation so it’s important to enjoy the day and try to work out in daylight hours. But what about if you work 9am-5pm? Try working out or going for a walk during your lunch hour. If you know you’re not going to get some time to do that during the week, factor some time in over the weekends if you can. We are lucky to have some beautiful walks around Norfolk including some amazing National Trust parks. 2. Find something you really love doing! There is no point signing up to the gym if you hate it. If it’s not going to inspire you to even get through the door, then don’t do it. You need to find out what it is that really motivates you. If you are a runner, join the free Parkruns on a Saturday morning. If you like sports, there are some amazing clubs to be part of. Walking, yoga, swimming, trampolining, rock climbing, cycling, dancing, fitness classes….there are so many things for you to try. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking exercise = gym. 3. Work out with a friend. Having someone to support you and encourage you to keep going can be so important. So if there is a new fitness class or club you want to join, take your bestie with you! If you don’t have anyone to train with, find a local group or club. Having that sense of community and relating to people who are there for the same reasons as you, will keep you motivated to continue and you’ll make new friends at the same time!

4. Eat a balanced diet. If you are really struggling to find the motivation to do any sort of activity, then make sure you are eating a balanced diet rather than comfort food. 5. Don’t feel guilty. If you are just not able to get yourself motivated and can’t bring yourself to do anything else but bunker down for the winter, don’t feel guilty. Putting that extra pressure on yourself is only going to make you feel less motivated. Be kind to yourself, recognise how you are feeling and if you need to talk to someone, please reach out.

Help and advice: www.mind.org.uk www.mentalhealth.org.uk

Tessa is personal trainer based in North Norfolk, and specialises in weight management and helps clients who need support with their mental wellbeing through exercise. Follow Tessa on Instagram @tessafitpro or facebook.com/tessaFitPro

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And so to bed

Fashion

Written by Ruth Essex, Stylist & Image Consultant | ruthcrofts@btinternet.com Tel: 07900 910 666

nce the clocks have changed, many of us change into night wear much earlier and wear it in the evening, and even if we’re just watching TV or reading, we deserve to look and feel good. Does yours make you feel attractive? Please don’t make do with a boyfriend’s cast off old T-shirt. You are worth more. It may be comfortable, but it is possible to feel comfortable and stylish at the same time. First of all, you could try the back of your lingerie drawer and actually wear the lovely stuff you have had since last Christmas. If you need new, there are lots of gorgeous options to choose from; crisp cotton pyjamas, soft modal wide legs trousers and matching top, or a silky night dress. Texture should play a big part in your choice of nightwear. What feels good against your skin? Silk feels beautiful, but I would recommend machine washable silk; most of our lives are far too busy to be hand washing anything.

Satin is an alternative choice; it has a similar feel but is easy to care for. A ¾ ballerina length chemise is an elegant option. A bias cut will flatter curves and a strappy top encompasses femininity, and shows off the flattering décolletage area. You can even find nightdresses with hidden support if you prefer more structure. If your legs are your best feature then choose a shorter version or a shorts pyjama set, with more coverage at the top. It is always best to leave a little something to the imagination… A pretty dressing gown in a coordinating colour or fabric will add warmth and cosiness. It is an often neglected area of even the most stylish women’s wardrobe, but, with wonderful nightwear you won’t be able to wait to slip off your coat and shoes and change into something comfortable, and a little bit glamourous when the nights draw in, or for those precious Sunday mornings in bed with a breakfast tray and the papers. Images: Left; B by Ted Baker, £89.50 www.debenhams.com Above; M&S Collection Cardigan £39.50, Collection Flexifit Bra £16, Collection Trouser £16 www.marksandspencer.com

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Why Hire A Wedding Planner?

Written by Katrina Otter

t wasn’t all that long ago that wedding planners were only popular with the rich and famous. Now, there are planners out there to suit every style of wedding and every budget too. But why do couples choose to hire a wedding planner? Isn’t it just an indulgent luxury? What are the benefits of letting someone else plan your big day? Read on and I’ll explain everything…

Let me start by explaining why couples hire a wedding planner because there are lots of reasons you might not have thought about. It might be that the couple work long hours and just don’t feel that they have the time to commit to planning their own wedding (on average it takes at least 250 hours to plan a wedding!). Some couples work with a planner because they’re getting married in an area that they don’t know or aren’t local to. There are then those couples that live overseas and are ‘coming home’ to get married or have chosen the UK as the location for their destination wedding. Some couples know that planning just isn’t where their skills lie, whilst others don’t know what they want or where to start. Alternatively, there are also couples that have a clear vision for their day but aren’t sure how to bring it to life and others who just want someone by their side throughout the planning process.

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So, as you can see, there are many reasons why couples choose to work with a professional to plan their wedding. But, whatever the reasons, what do you actually get for your money and why have wedding planners become so popular? Well, for starters, the wedding world has changed considerably in the last decade. Modern celebrations don’t follow the formula of weddings of the past. Couples have a huge choice of venues, suppliers, styles and details available to them and this can make planning much more complicated and considerably more time consuming. Asking a couple who already have busy lives and no knowledge of planning a large event to step in and just take control is a big ask and there’s no shame in saying ‘I want to get married but I don’t want to plan the wedding.’ A wedding planner knows how to make a wedding look amazing and run smoothly. They have links with the best suppliers, they know what works well and what needs more management, they can deal with all the wedding admin and they’ll be there on the day to coordinate everything for you. A planner will check over quotes and contracts, they’ll make sure that you don’t miss any deadlines and they’ll come up with lots of fantastic ideas that will help you put your own stamp on your big day.

Planners are also great if you’ve chosen a nontraditional wedding venue. Whether you’ve opted for a giant tipi, a blank canvas industrial space or a private estate, there will be a lot to do. You’ll need to bring in so many suppliers, think about logistics and deal with the set up and breakdown of your event. A planner can manage all of this for you so that you get the wedding you want without taking on more work. If you choose to work with a wedding planner, you’re also much more likely to come in on budget. Your planner will allocate your cash, keep tabs on how much has been spent and they’ll also factor a contingency fund into your budget too. Of course, if time is money then you’ll also be saving because your planner will handle so much for you. Your planner will also give you a huge amount of support and freedom. If there’s ever anything you’re not sure about or something you’d like help with, your planner will be there to support you. You’ll also be free to enjoy the build-up to your wedding. When you know that someone else has everything under control for you, you can just relax and look forward to the big day. One thing that your planner won’t do however is make decisions for you. Yes, they’ll shortlist venues, suppliers and ideas but ultimately, all of the decisions and choices are yours. They won’t push you to one style or another or make you choose one supplier above another. A planner will share their knowledge, their expertise, their honest advice and they’ll work tirelessly on your behalf. Every wedding planner wants just one thing for their clients – fabulous, memorable and wonderful weddings.

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

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Consumer

Martin Lewis Talks... How do you earn big interest on ickle savings?

he world of children’s savings is actually far more competitive than those for grown-ups. Done right, interest rates are far higher - though the amounts allowed are smaller. So with the long run-up to Christmas soon to start, and the market all shook up with a change of best-buys, let me run through how to play it to perfection. And don’t do this alone. If your kids or grandkids are old enough, sit down with them and talk them through each savings pick and let them choose - turn it into a fun financial game. This is crucial financial education – teaching them not just to save, but importantly where to save to get the most from their money. Earn 4.5% interest if you save each month If you’re looking for somewhere to put children’s savings, pick the account paying the highest rate. On interest, the easy winner is the Halifax Kids’ Regular Saver (www.Halifax.co.uk), for up to age 15, which pays 4.5% AER fixed for a year. You can pay in £10 to £100 per month, and you are allowed to miss a month, but you can’t withdraw any money until the year’s up. After a year, the rate drops, so get your child to set a diary reminder and move their money to a better account when it does. If you’ve more to save then Saffron Building Society (www.saffronbs.co.uk) is similar at 4% AER, though with this one you can make withdrawals. If you’re not near a branch, then it can be opened by post. Earn 3.5% on lump sums Nationwide (www.nationwide.co.uk) has just launched its new Future Saver account for under 15s. It pays 3.5% AER, but only if the parent or guardian holds a Nationwide current account (not flex basic). Up to £5,000 can be saved in it each year, but only one penalty-free withdrawal is allowed from it. If you don’t have the Nationwide current account, it pays 2.5%, in which case the HSBC MySavings account (www.hsbc.co.uk) pays 3% on up to £3,000 and it allows you to withdraw money as often as you like. In the unlikely event that your little one has really big money to save, Skipton Building Society’s Children’s Saver easy access account (www.skipton.co.uk) pays 2.25% on up to £50,000. The Top Children’s Accounts with debit cards Some older children want accounts where they can spend on a card or online. If they’re aged 11-18, the Santander 123 Mini account (www.santander.co.uk) pays 3% on £300£2,000 and gives a debit card to use in shops – though if

they’re under 13, you need to have a Santander account for them to open it. Alternatively, the TSB Under-19s’ Account (www.tsb.co.uk) can be opened by 11 to 18-year-olds and pays interest of 2.5% on balances between £1 and £2,500. It offers the choice of a cash withdrawal only card, or a Visa debit card to use for cash, online and in store. Can grandparents open these accounts? For children under roughly age 18, an adult will need to open the account (with the child’s ID) and be a trustee or signatory on the account. Most accounts including Santander and Nationwide require the adult to be a person with parental responsibility, though grandparents and other family members can pay in. With Halifax, grandparents are allowed to manage the account. The top paying Junior ISA pays 3.6% Junior ISAs (JISAs) are savings (or investment) accounts. You can save up to a set amount each tax year - £4,260 in this tax year - and the money is then locked away until the child’s 18th birthday (after that it’s theirs to do what they want with – regardless of why you saved it). The big sell is that the interest is tax-free, but these days that’s irrelevant for most as: - Children pay tax just like adults, meaning they can earn £11,850 each year without paying tax on it. - There is a rule that says kids can only earn £100 interest a year (so that’s about £3,000 saved in the top easy-access account) from money given by each parent. Above that it’s counted as the parents’ income and taxed at their rate. Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySavingExpert.com. To join the 13 million people who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip

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HONDA

CIVIC

Four Door Saloon Written by Sue Cooke Twitter @cookecars

adly, the manual handbrake is becoming a creature on the edge of extinction. I have fond memories of grabbing this automotive saviour while learning how to perform a hill start. And I have rather more scarier memories of boyfriends, now banished to the times I would rather forget, who demonstrated rather flamboyant handbrake turns. Alas, the manual handbrake is passing, as only 37% of new cars on sale in the UK come equipped with the traditional mechanical lever, according to research by CarGurus.

The new Honda Civic four door saloon follows the automotive crowd and has an electronic parking brake switch, but depending whether you choose an automatic transmission or a manual transmission, will depend on its exact location on the centre console.

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FACTS AT A G L A N C E MODEL: Honda Civic four door saloon SE PRICE: ÂŁ20,745 otr ENGINE: 1.6 I-DTEC 120 PS PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds CO2 EMISSIONS: 83.1mpg COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 91 G/KM

The new saloon is a dynamic and sophisticated four-door compact model and represents a significant step forward for Honda in this segment. For many customers, the Civic is synonymous with the Honda brand. This 10th generation model sets new benchmarks for the compact class in terms of dynamic performance, fuel efficiency, spaciousness, safety and interior quality. The exterior design is sporty with a short front overhang, a sharp and aggressive face and pronounced wheel arches. The interior is spacious as it is built on a wider and longer platform. The cabin is simple and uncluttered with a long list of new technologies and high-grade materials. The Entry level grade, SE, comes with Honda SENSING suite of safety features which the company says ensures the car is among the very safest in its class. The road test car arrived with a 1.6iDTEC diesel engine which Honda says it is continuing to build where there is a demand for diesel engines. There is also a VTEC TURBO petrol. I can understand why the diesel engine is popular with CO2 emissions from just 91g/km, which means very low road tax. The petrol version is equally clean with 107g/ km CO2 for the CVT gearbox, while the petrol engine with manual gearbox emits just 110g/km CO2, making the Civic four door one of the cleanest saloons in its class.

Motoring

a month on a three year, 10,000 mile contract on 5.9% APR for a 1.6 i-DTEC SR manual. Unfortunately, the traditional handbrake is likely to decline further, only to be found on a select number of niche models. But there are many benefits to the electronic parking brake, which is regarded as a luxury feature. To engage the brake requires less physical effort, it holds the car more securely and doesn’t need adjusting like the traditional lever. Most electronic handbrakes disengage automatically when you pull away plus they often offer an automatic hill-hold assist function. The Honda Civic four door is a good-looking saloon, with features both in and out which make it a pleasure to drive.

Starting from £19,395 otr, the PCP pricing has also been confirmed for the new car with monthly payments of £259

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How to maximise your

Kitchen Space

The kitchen is the heart of the home. Read our top three tips for making the most your space this Christmas

or many of us, Christmas is the highlight of our year, particularly because it gives us the perfect opportunity to tuck into a grand roast. But, when you’re the one in charge of preparing and cooking the meal, you can feel less enthusiastic about the day.

Christmas dinner is famous for coming with all the trimmings, whether that’s a pile of roast potatoes or a tower of stuffing. And, if you have a small kitchen, preparing everything can cause cluttered work surfaces and a stack of washing up by the end of it. So, if you’re looking to maximise the space in your kitchen this Christmas, we’ve got some solutions for you. Create a cooking plan The classic Christmas dinner is made up of many components that need to be cooked in the oven. But, as it’s not usually possible to cook these all at once, your kitchen can find itself laden with food-filled baking trays waiting to be cooked. To combat this issue, Jane Rylands from the kitchen appliance manufacturer Belling recommends creating a cooking plan to ensure everything is made as efficiently as possible: “Before you cook anything, you should consider which foods will take priority and which ones can be cooked in different ways. For example, the meat is bound to be the most important thing to go in the oven, while your vegetables can be steamed or boiled on the hob to ensure everything gets served up at the same time. “You should also be thinking about which components can be cooked at the same temperature, or even on the same baking tray. There’s nothing wrong with throwing some

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pre-bought Yorkshire puddings onto the same tray as your parsnips or putting your vegetables around the meat. “Using a fan oven will also help as it’ll equally distribute the heat inside of your oven, meaning less cooking time and a more evenly cooked roast.” Organise your fridge Preparing elements of your Christmas dinner before the big day will give you a great head start, but it can also lead to your fridge being crammed full. To avoid this, it’s important that you learn how to organise your fridge well, so everything is safely stored and nothing spoils before the big day. However, if your roast bird is taking up too much space in your fridge, find a spot in your home that’ll keep your bulky drinks cartons and bottles chilled. A cold utility room or even your garage are good options to keep that festive fizz crisp. For more information, BBC Good Food has a great guide on what to keep where at Christmas (www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/what-keep-wherechristmas)

Home & Garden

Make a ‘help yourself’ station Once your Christmas dinner is ready to serve, you might struggle to fit everything on your dining table. So, why not try something different this year? Instead of having all of the food crammed onto the table, you can set up a self-service buffet spot to ensure your table isn’t overcrowded, and that everybody can enjoy their dinners without being asked to pass the gravy again. If you don’t have enough surface space to set up your self-serve station, a hostess trolley is more compact so can be a better option for kitchens with limited space. You can even get ones with heated shelves and compartments that’ll keep your food warm. Hostess have a good selection at www.hostess.co.uk. Plus, the removable oven-proof dish holders minimise the potential for spills and accidents. With so many different dishes to prepare, and limited space do so, Christmas dinner can get quite stressful. But, with our top three tips and some forward planning, you’ll be on your way to having a stress-free Christmas this year.

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Art on Trend Written by Emma Kemsley

We take a sneak peek in the studio of Lucy Dawson, owner and creator of Bella Art in Suffolk

hen we purchase homewares, gifts or fashions, the story of how these items came to be is a rare thought, but here among the reels of fabric propped up against the wall, the canvases standing tall and the sketches that lay across the table, it is clear to see the hours of talent, creativity and passion that goes into making Bella Art products. I am in the studio of Lucy Dawson, the artist and business brain behind Bella Art based in Suffolk. Known for her country style animal prints, she designs and sells beautiful prints and textiles for the home including lampshades, cushions, make up bags, aprons, bunting and table runners. I’m immediately drawn to her newly launched notebooks, which are sure to be a hit for Christmas. Bella Art is stocked in Wow Vintage in Southwold, Neptune Interiors in Bury St Edmunds and an outlet at Jimmy’s Farm. Regular pop ups include Ivy Joan in Bury St Edmunds and Dalegate Market, and a number of Christmas markets are scheduled for the festive season. Her studio and showroom, which can be booked to view by appointment, is located at Finbows Yard in Bacton, near Stowmarket, set among other flourishing independent businesses such as gift and home store and café EmZo and others.

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Where to find Bella Art: Showroom open every Wednesday and Saturday in the run up to Xmas, 10am-4pm Jimmy’s Farm Outlet, Ipswich Wow Vintage, Southwold Neptune Interiors Christmas Fair, 15 November Sandringham Christmas Market, 16-18 November Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fair, 22-25 November Jimmy’s Christmas Fayre, 1-2 December www.bellaart.co.uk

“It’s important to support local businesses,” says Lucy. A choice which is evident in her own work. Bella Art lampshades, coasters and notebooks are all made in her studio, while other textile items are made in a historical mill in Lancashire. The UK craftsmanship is reflected in the high quality of each individual product. Bella Art draws on inspiration from Suffolk’s countryside, woodlands and wildlife. Designs include stags, hares, horses, bees, birds and wild flora, created using earthy tones and a neutral palette, perfect for fitting into any home. Hares are one of the most popular designs with customers and a favourite of Lucy’s too: “My favourite to paint are the hares,” she says. “It’s amazing to watch them in the fields. They are intelligent with their own character. One hare was particularly inquisitive and came close enough for me to take photos including one sticking his tongue out! I think it’s the sense of folklore which makes them a popular choice.”

Pick the perfect present Bella Art items make fantastic gifts for friends and family, here’s some of our top picks: Fox Cushion £45

Hamish Highland Cow Apron £21.95

Photographing the animals is just the beginning of creating one of Bella Art’s lovely pieces. From a photo Lucy begins painting the image by hand, followed by editing and printing. In all, each print takes up to three weeks to complete. Angus Stag Mug £12.50

Pheasant Coaster Bee, Hare, Fox and Stag designs also available Set of x4 is £24

Lucy started drawing from an early age and graduated from university with a degree in graphic design, but it was her passion for traditional methods of art and the need of a creative outlet that encouraged her to start her own business. “I’ve always been a keen artist and always liked portraits and life drawing. My love of fabrics came from my gran and mum, they give me a nostalgic feel,” she explains. The beauty of living and working in Suffolk has inspired many of Lucy’s works, and she has been commissioned to create murals in homes across the county. This is an area of the business she will be expanding next year with local projects, nursery murals and portraits. With more launches, stockists and pop ups planned for 2019, this home-grown talented artist is definitely one to watch!

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

s the weeks seem to skip past I am amazed to find myself writing the November column. Yet another year has whizzed by and as the secret garden slows for winter, it is a great time to take stock of what we have achieved and the projects that lie ahead.

As I mentioned last month, our final ‘big’ job of the season was to plant a few bulbs. Four hundred to be precise. My husband has just about forgiven me for what must be one of the most hateful tasks if for even one second you lose sight of the rewards come spring. Even worse, the ‘heavy duty’ bulb planter I treated him to broke a mere twenty minutes into the task! We persevered and within just a few months each Betula utilis jaquemontii will have a ring of Galanthus nivalis followed by Narcissus ‘Tete a Tete’ whilst the stream bank will glow with a variety of daffodils including the naturalizing Narcissus pseudonarcissus. Sadly another year has swept by without us creating some sort of permanent composting area. Given the amount of leaves that are now gently falling to the ground this is a great shame, but the great thing about gardening is the whole process will be repeated again next year.

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

With the exception of removing two flower beds and the path, this year has been more about consolidating and enhancing what we have. Adding two pallets of manure to the remaining flower beds and rose garden has given me a welcome temporary break from weeding. It has also freed up my time to tie in and tidy the climbing roses and give each shrub and perennial a good inspection. Having rehomed over 50 plants before turning the two borders over to lawn was rather unforgiving in the heat of August, and I am somewhat amazed that our only casualty was a Pestemon ‘Garnet’, usually one of the more sturdy perennials. Our new glade of Betula utilis jaquemontii have settled in nicely and the grass seed, which sprouted within a week, now offers a vibrant green avenue where once was Percy’s path.

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Property Hunting in

Cambridge Why now is the time to buy a new home

uring the summer, UK mortgage approvals hit a nine-month high, coupled with interest rates remaining abnormally low. Potential home buyers in Cambridge now have a great opportunity to land their dream new home. Annette Cole, Sales and Marketing Director at Crest Nicholson Eastern (www.CrestNicholson.com) said: “In spite of the recent increase, interest rates in 2018 have continued to be at an all-time low, allowing more and more buyers in Cambridge to get onto property ladder. New build homes are an attractive option to many buyers – offering benefits, such as subsidies like the government’s much lauded Help to Buy scheme, energy efficiency and cheaper running costs.” And what about renters and first-time buyers looking to get a foot on the ladder? Recent research by Santander Mortgages in 2018 has found Cambridge residents would save an average of more than £2,268 a year if they bought a property rather than renting something very similar. So why buy new? Annette Cole, shares the five key advantages of choosing a new build home for your next move: 1. No chain According to a survey by Which? in 2017, around three out of ten property purchases in the UK collapse, at an average cost of nearly £3,000 to each buyer. And with one failing link in the chain risking the collapse of the whole property chain, it’s a major consideration. Downward chains can be one of the most frustrating experiences when buying a house, with one in three sales falling through after the offer price has been accepted. New build homes come with the added benefit of having no upward chain to consider. This means the whole process is much less stressful and often quicker than a second-hand purchase. 2. Peace of mind All new-homes are independently assessed during construction and covered by a 10-year warranty. Home security and low-level maintenance are built in from the

design stage and every home undergoes a stringent ‘fit for purpose’ inspection prior to occupancy. 3. Value for money New homes are built to a much higher specification than the majority of older homes, so you often get more for your money. They have central heating, double-glazing, floor and wall insulation as standard. Other features also including fitted kitchens with integrated appliances and stylish bathrooms. 4. Tailored to your lifestyle New homes are built to make use of every inch of space. Often in older properties, with dated layouts, living space goes unused. New homes on the other hand provide large flexible living spaces than can be tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re single, a couple, a growing family or retired, you will find the right layout for your needs. 5. A sustainable choice The average new home is up to four times more energy efficient than a traditional second-hand home. New homes have excellent insulation and the latest energy saving appliances. This means they have lower running costs compared to traditional homes.

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T H E E D M ON DSON H ALL SOLICITOR S

WINTER L ADIES DAY AT H U N T I N G D O N R A C E C O U R S E

SATU RDAY 24TH NOVEMBER G I N & J A Z Z F E S T I VA L | L I V E M U S I C | S T Y L E AWA R D S

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Arts

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

s November brings the colder weather and the longer nights, it is time to take a nourishing fill of the Eastern region’s artistic offers. Search and you will find a wealth of group and solo shows throughout the counties. Each will be presenting an inspirational display of art in all its varied forms. From original etchings to beautiful glass and ceramics, there is no shortage of creativity to enjoy.

This month my own Norton Way Gallery, (Letchworth, Hertfordshire) will be celebrating the season with a special weekend opening of our ‘Autumn and Winter Collection 2018’. We will be exhibiting many of our wonderful regular artists such as Anne Songhurst and will be introducing a beautiful new talent from Ireland, Stephen Lawlor and Suffolk favourite Chrissie Norman. Anne has been exhibiting with the gallery for over 11 years and has never failed to both stun and delight appreciators with her beautiful still life paintings. Warm and intense, her richly conveyed pieces of oil on linen capture the essence of nature and the manmade. Jewelllike fruits are exquisitely juxtaposed with lusciously tactile cotton, lace or wood. Silver and bronze gleam under the expert delivery of her eye and brush. With all her heart she transforms humble items of the everyday into objects of sheer beauty.

Clementines and Silverware by Anne Songhurst

With a darker and more mysterious eye, Stephen Lawlor invites us to glimpse a world of enigma and secrecy. Quietly thrilling etchings and monotypes weave in and out of focus, teasing and displacing us but also compelling us to take a closer look. Shadowy figures, familiar but unknown, tempt us to engage, whilst beautiful brooding landscapes beckon with subtle warning to tread carefully. It is also with great pleasure that we show, for the first time, the highly revered Suffolk printmaker, Chrissie Norman. Regionally famous for her commanding, rural landscapes, Chrissie’s beautiful etchings exude a sense of home. Trees, fields, tracks and trails forever promise to lead us to remembered and imagined havens of personal sanctuary. Haunting yet peaceful paths and avenues transport us to a world of timeless beauty. The stillness of quiet or the gentle rustles of an autumn day reach out for us from her skilful lines, hues and tones. Come and join us on from 17-18 November for the special weekend opening and enjoy a relaxing browse of these and many more superb artists. If you would like to attend the private views beforehand, please contact the gallery for information.

After the Rain by Chrissie Norman

Autumn and Winter Collection 2018 Opening Weekend 17-18 November Norton Way Gallery, 51 Norton Way North, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, SG6 1BH Tel: 01462 685139 | www.nortonwaygallery.com

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Eastlife 11/10/2018 11:06 Page 1

ANGLIAN

POTTERS

CHRISTMAS

EX HIBI T IO N

THE GIG CARTEL PRESENTS

STEVE HARLEY & COCKNEY REBEL CHRISTMAS SHOW THURS 20 DEC

Unique gifts and an outstanding collection of handmade ceramics from over 70 local potters Saturday 10 November-Sunday 9 December 2018 Open every day 10am–4pm • Free Entry

THE MOST FAMOUS BAGPIPE BAND ON THE PLANET FRI 24 MAY

All Saints’ Church, Jesus Lane, Cambridge www.anglianpotters.org.uk follow us@AnglianPotters on

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Located in the historic Townsford Mill, Halstead Antiques Centre is home to over 80 antiques dealers, specialising in a wide range of antique, vintage and collectable items, including paintings and pictures, ceramics, silver, jewellery, vintage fashion, kitchenalia, militaria and much, much more. With two floors of antiques to explore, the Centre is a delight for collectors of every kind.

Why not combine your visit with a walk around our award-winning loral town. Come and be inspired! Open daily: Mon – Sat 10am to 5pm Sundays 11am – 5pm (May to Oct) 10 am to 4pm (Nov - Mar)

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Arts News

for November East Anglia’s Most Wanted: Championing a Dynamic Hub for British Art Sworders Fine Art Auctioneers are holding an East Anglian themed valuation day at their Stansted Mountfitchet Auction Rooms on Friday 9 November. The auctioneers have a strong track record selling a plethora of works by local artists and artisans and are hopeful of meeting members of the public with similar pieces for valuation for sale.

Elisabeth Frink: Humans and Other Animals at the Sainsbury Centre, Norwich This autumn, the Sainsbury Centre will present a major new exhibition of work by Elisabeth Frink (1930-1993), until 24 February 2019. Featuring over 130 works by the artist, it will be the largest showing of Frink’s work in 25 years. The exhibition will provide new perspectives and examine her radical and bohemian beginnings in 1950s London, reappraising one of the most important British sculptors of the 20th century. Frink’s work will be placed alongside that of other modern masters, most notably Pablo Picasso, Alberto Giacometti, Auguste Rodin, Francis Bacon, Germaine Richier and Louise Bourgeois.

Specialists in other disciplines such as silver, furniture, ceramics, books, maps and works of art are also hopeful of seeing pieces by some of the region’s most talented artisans and craftsmen. Tudor and Stuart silver made in Norwich (an assay office closed in 1701), porcelain from the Lowestoft factory (active from 1757 to 1802), Nelson memorabilia and glass and creamware decorated by William Absolon (1751-1815) of Great Yarmouth have all been well-received at auction in recent years. To make an appointment to meet with one of our specialists, please contact call 01279 817778. www.sworder.co.uk

‘Elisabeth Frink: Humans and Other Animals’ will trace the evolution of Frink’s work over four decades, presenting the major themes in her practice and paying significant attention to her early work in the context of artists such as Rodin, Giacometti and Richier who inspired her. scva.ac.uk

Anglian Potters Christmas Ceramics Exhibition returns to All Saints’ Cambridge Anglian Potters Christmas Exhibition returns from 10 November to 9 December at All Saints’ Church, Cambridge where more than 70 potters will be showing their latest work. This exhibition features a wide range of ceramics from cutting-edge contemporary art to handcrafted functional domestic ware, decorative forms, cards and sculpture.

A vast range of handmade ceramic Christmas decorations are also available with all proceeds going to charity. Entrance is free and visitors are invited to meet the potters, browse and perhaps purchase a Christmas gift or two from the wide variety of handmade items on display. Open every day from 10am to 4pm. www.anglianpotters.org.uk

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We would like to wish you all Merry Christmas! Open all year from 10am

For more information please visit

www.thrigbyhall.com - 01493 369477 Thrigby Hall, Filby, Great Yarmouth NR29 3DR

SECRET

Norfolk

Life in a Fine County

Written by Nicole Ranaweera

A festive day out in Norfolk

ith November comes the start of Christmas cheer – with light switch-ons to Christmas markets and pantos, Norfolk fully welcomes festive fun with open arms. I’m personally a believer that Christmas shouldn’t start until December, but there are some great events happening this year that may tempt me to embrace the festivities just that little bit earlier. If however, you’ve been on a Christmas countdown since January, then Norwich really is the place to visit! Take a look below for a few suggestions for a festive day out this November…

NORWICH Norwich for the last few years has really enjoyed lighting up its streets and this year is no different. The Tunnel of Light will be returning for a third year on 15 November when the city officially switches on its lights. If you love a good Christmas Market then you won’t want to miss the four day Festive Fair at The Forum on the 2225 November or the Global Village Christmas Market, 29 November – 1 December (www.theforumnorwich.co.uk). Make a day of it by starting on that Christmas shopping, squeeze in a lunch at one of the city’s cosy pubs (the Sir Garnet on the market offer both light lunches or a Sunday roast) and top it off with a gander and obligatory Instagram photo in the Tunnel of Light as daylight starts to fade.

Or, if you’d prefer to avoid the bustle of the markets why not take in a show at one of the city’s Theatres? For all you parents out there, the Scummy Mummies Christmas Show returns to Norwich Playhouse for guaranteed laughs on 29 November (www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk). Or, enjoy the magical winter wonderland of The Nutcracker on 21-24 November at Norwich Theatre Royal (www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk). NORTH AND WEST NORFOLK For a truly festive evening, Diva Opera, Britain’s foremost chamber opera company will be returning to Holkham Hall again this year on 30 November – 1 December with Christmas stories and songs (www.holkham.co.uk/events/ christmas-at-holkham/christmas-music). For a great day out, enjoy a beach walk from Holkham to Wells, a spot of lunch at one of Wells’ restaurants on the Quay and return to Holkham via the pinewoods – take a look at Holkham’s website for detailed directions: www.holkham.co.uk/ nature-reserve-beach/the-beach/beach-walk For all you Christmas Market lovers, you can easily while away the day at either Pensthorpe Christmas Market on 25 November (www.pensthorpe.com) or the Christmas Fair at Sandringham, 16-18 November (www.livingheritagecraftshows.com). With unusual gifts to buy and mulled wine and mince pies galore you’ll be in the Christmas spirit in no time! For more events in Norfolk visit www.eastlife.co.uk or join our Facebook group: What’s On in Norfolk with Eastlife: www.facebook.com/groups/whatsonnorfolk

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Christmas

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Written by Visit Norwich | visitnorwich.co.uk

Wonderful value breaks in luxurious and stylish settings in the city centre

f you’re looking for the picture-perfect Christmastime city, then Norwich is it. Dressed head to toe in twinkling lights and festive decorations, this is a city that wears the season particularly well, and is a must-see if you’ve never visited before.

In places, the peaceful cobbled streets are the romantic picture of Christmas that we all imagine when we think of that Dickensian, snow covered yuletide. In others, Norwich is a city that buzzes with shoppers, music in the streets, and the promise of hot food al-fresco in Norwich Market. It’s a wonderful time to visit, and an even better time to stay for the weekend. Enjoy a luxurious city-centre stay, or make your base a bit further out in the gorgeous, rugged Norfolk countryside – there’s nowhere better to spend a stylish winter weekend.

STAY Gothic House King’s Head Yard, Norwich, NR3 1JE Tel: 01603 631879 | www.gothic-house-norwich.com Gothic House is in a great location, just on the edge of the Cathedral Quarter. It’s the perfect base for wandering around Magdalen Street & Wensum Street, which is famed for collectables, antiques, second-hand books, objets d’art, independent lifestyle shops and coffee houses. The B&B is less than 10-minute walk from Elm Hill, Norwich Lanes, great shopping, eating out, and all the main attractions. It’s the perfect retreat for couples, or for best friends on a Christmas shopping break.Prices from £95 per night minimum 2-night weekend stay (Fri-Sun) B&B Mon – Thurs, 1-night stays from £105, B&B.

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The Norfolk Mead Church Loke, Coltishall, Norwich NR12 7DN Tel: 01603 737 531 | www.norfolkmead.co.uk The Norfolk Mead is about a 15 minute drive just north of Norwich, so you’re perfectly in between the fun of the city and the quiet of rural Norfolk. Coltishall is a picturesque location, and the Mead is nestled in its own grounds perfect for winter walks and easy riverside strolls. In addition to the individually appointed rooms, there are summerhouses and a cottage available to book – each one cleanly and stylishly decorated. From £135 per night. The Assembly House Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RQ Tel: 01603 626402 | www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk The Assembly House is simply one of the finest hotels in Norwich. It has 11 spacious and stylish rooms: six with their own secret gardens, four with their own lounges, a bridal suite with its own garden and two opulent top-floor suites. It is pure luxury, and hospitality at its very best, all within the city centre. While you’re there, treat yourself to one of the hotel’s famous afternoon teas. Prices from £140 per night B&B, and a splendid cooked breakfast.

EAT Roger Hickman’s Restaurant This classic, elegant restaurant has recently expanded, and is owned by former Michelin-starred chef Roger Hickman. There are three menus – a Tasting Menu, a Lunch Menu and a multi-course Table d’Hôte Dinner Menu, and the restaurant holds a prestigious 3-AA Rosette Award to its name. Very sophisticated, and laid-back with it. The Ivy Norwich Brasserie Newly opened, the Ivy Norwich Brasserie is one of the

most chic places to dine in Norwich right now. With a

Images: The Tunnel of Light, Visit Norwich; The Assembly House; The Ivy

Norfolk-inspired interior by the Martin Brudnizki design studio, the décor is as fabulous as the food on offer. On one of Norwich’s busiest shopping streets – London Street – The Ivy is ideal for drinks any time, or dining late into the evening. Benedict’s Norwich A jewel in the crown of the Norwich Lanes, this 3 AARosette restaurant is very special indeed. Chef proprietor Richard Bainbridge is a Great British Menu winner and judge, and is the beating heart of Benedicts. The focus is on using fresh, local ingredients, and using small suppliers to deliver the very best. This is a truly special, unique dining experience that you won’t forget. Bishop’s An intimate fine dining restaurant, located in a beautifully historic area of Norwich. This small-but-perfectly-formed restaurant offers a range of enticing seasonal menus to choose from, to give you a taste of the real Norfolk! With a focus on wine and food, this is very romantic, and perfect for an atmospheric, candlelit dinner of real charm and quality.

or Father Christmas only £8, both include quality gift & photo. Adults usual museum entry cost £5.20. Prebooking advised | Norfolk-museums.arttickets.org.uk Strangers’ Hall is a delightful museum to celebrate Christmas and this year for the first time the perfect setting as they present Victorian Father Christmas visits themed with the famous poem ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, creating an authentic and exciting immersive experience for children and adults alike.

WHAT’S ON Tunnel of Light Hay Hill, Norwich, NR2 1QX 15 November 2018 – 5 January 2019, FREE www.visitnorwich.co.uk Returning for its third year with glittering new sequences, Norwich’s Tunnel of Light will once again thrill the senses with its 45-meters long, 4 meters high and 6 meters wide tunnel made from 50,000 pulsating LEDs. As well as all the usual colours and thrills, new for 2018 visitors can experience a James Bondesque sequence with speeding colours firing through the tunnel as well as a sequence giving the illusion of splashing, cascading water with waves rolling high above your head. Share your tunnel photos on Instagram #MyTunnelOfLight | @mytunneloflight ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Strangers’ Hall, Charing Cross, Norwich, NR2 4AL Saturday’s 1, 8, 15, 22 December, 10am – 4pm, Father Christmas visit & museum admission child £10

Christmas Markets Christmas shopping wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a Christmas Market, and Norwich has several. Until the 15 December, pick up some ‘Cards for Good Causes’ outside the Forum, and on the 22 to 25 November, Millennium Plain will also host the hugely popular ‘Festive Fair at the Forum’. At the beginning of December, the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association are hosting a magnificent, Victorian-inspired Christmas Market at Norwich Cathedral. Launching on the 30 November at the Blessing of the Crib service, on Saturday 1 December a Farmers’ Market will be taking place in the Cloisters with a range of delicious food and drink produce as well as providing some great gift ideas. With fairground rides and decorations, this is the nostalgic Christmas experience you’re looking for. Further out the city and into Norfolk, Pensthorpe Natural Park, and Holkham Hall have their own unique take on Christmas shopping events.

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OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from

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THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH

N R 29 3DR 01493 369477 www.thrigbyhall.co.uk

What’s on: Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 6-8 Nov A Christmas Story The multi-award winning LHMTC are back once again with their festive family variety show, full of original and familiar songs, sketches and lots of laughter to put you in the festive mood. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 8-10 Nov Awful Auntie David Walliams’ amazing tale of frights, fights and friendship, featuring a very old car, a very large owl and a very small ghost! Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 10-Nov Haunted Discoveries With tales of screams being heard from the waves of the North Sea and stories of locals witnessing former lifeboat men walking the planks of the pier and into the Theatre; this will be a ghost-hunt to remember. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier, Cromer, NR27 9HE. 01263 512495 www.cromerpier.co.uk/whats-on 10-Nov Sara Pascoe: LadsLadsLads Full of jokes, hope and white wine ‘LadsLadsLads’ is the thinking person’s stag do. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 11-Nov Voices of War On the centenary of the Armistice for an evening of poetry, prose, drama and song composed during the First World War and by writers inspired by the events of 1914-18. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 14 & 17 Nov Glyndebourne Cinderella (Cendrillon) A glittering comic opera celebrating the power of fantasy, Cendrillon is Jules Massenet’s musical fairytale. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street,

New York Times bestselling author Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 and TV presenter who has travelled www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk to more than 120 countries making multiple award-winning TV series for 15-17 Nov Legally Blonde: the BBC. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, The Musical Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Based on the novel and the hit-movie PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 of the same name, ‘Legally Blonde: www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk the Musical’ chronicles the journey of the famously perky Elle Woods, a 21-24 Nov The Nutcracker fashion savvy UCLA sorority girl who Share in Clara’s adventures as she finds her life turned upside down is swept away by her Nutcracker when she is dumped by her boyfriend Prince into an enchanting winter Warren. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, wonderland. Norwich Theatre Royal, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL Great Yarmouth, NR31 6PP. 01603 630000 01493 662832 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk gorlestonpavilion.ticketsolve.com 24 Nov - 30 Dec Cromer Pier 16-24 Nov The Diary of a Nobody Christmas Show A frenetic and frequently daft ad‘The Cromer Pier Christmas Show’ aptation of this Victorian comedy of returns for its 14th year and is now manners. Maddermarket Theatre, considered to be one of the best St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR family Christmas shows in Norfolk, 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk strengthening the county’s fantastic festive entertainment offering. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier, 16-Nov Allelujah! Cromer, NR27 9HE. 01263 512495 Filmed live at London’s Bridge www.cromerpier.co.uk/whats-on Theatre during its limited run, don’t miss this ‘rousing chorus line for the NHS’ (Observer) in your local cinema. 24-25 Nov Autumn Reflections A celebration of the season of mists Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station and mellow fruitfulness in words, Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. music, images and food! Westacre 01263 822347 Theatre, River Road, Westacre, www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 18-Nov My Mountain Life This illustrated lecture features spectac26 Nov - 1 Dec The Full Monty ular images and film of the most remote This production about six out-ofand rarely explored mountain ranges of work, impoverished steelworkers the world from the Arctic to the Antarcfrom Sheffield with nothing to lose, tic and Alaska to Central Asia. Norwich took the world by storm and has beArts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, come one of Britain’s most successNorwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk ful shows. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 19-Nov Christmas Memories www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk Be transported back on a yuletide sleigh ride filled with of 60 all-time 30 Nov - 1 Dec Remote favourite Christmas songs and carols. Over the course of one autumnal King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW evening, seven teenagers’ lives intertwine as they make their way through 01553 764864 the park. And everything that seemed www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk normal becomes extraordinary. Mad dermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, 20-Nov An Audience With Simon NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 Reeve www.maddermarket.co.uk Simon Reeve is an adventurer and

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

Featuring: Gifts from Santa Claus Nursery Railway Train Ride Gallopers Rides Sweet Shop Dads Army at Christmas Childrens Entertainment th 2018 Dec tothMon Dec 29th Nov Sat | Dec1st 5th & 6th,12 & 13th24th ,19th,20 ,22nd,23rd & 24th

Check bressingham.co.uk for entry times

Search Bressingham Steam

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

1 Dec - 1 Jan 19 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Stunning costumes, creative choreography, scenery straight from an enchanting fairy tale and a fast paced story line which will ensure this year’s production of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ is a truly magical experience. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk MUSIC 10-Nov Totally Tina The show brings the spectacle and energy of Tina’s live concerts to her fans, courtesy of talented Justine Riddoch and a superb cast of vocalists, musicians and dancers. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 11-Nov Sixties Gold An evening to be remembered and a must for all fans of the Swinging Sixties. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 15-Nov One Night of Queen ‘One Night of Queen’ is a spectacular live concert, recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of arguably the greatest rock band of all time. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 16-Nov Derek Ryan Derek Ryan has become one of country music’s leading entertainers and makes his highly anticipated return to Hunstanton for a performance of his self-penned hits along with a sprinkling of country classics. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 24-Nov Holly At Christmas – Buddy Holly & The Cricketers Guaranteed to have everyone singing along to the music and dancing in the aisles. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk

29-Nov Stick in the Wheel Known for their fierce, raw delivery, this is culturally and politically switched on music, with the group being widely commended for their timely appraisal of English Folk. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 13 Oct - 16 Dec Theories of the Earth ‘Theories of the Earth’ brings together three artists whose work is defined by shared interests in elemental aspects of the environment, the deep histories of the earth and its geological formation. Groundwork Gallery, 17 Purfleet Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1ER. 01553 34071 1-13 Nov Norfolk in the First World War: Somme to Armistice Exhibition Explore the legacies of Armistice and how the campaigns on the Somme and in Gaza impacted the lives of Norfolk men. Learn about Norfolk women whose lives were transformed as they stepped into new roles and how these pioneers lost much of their new found liberty at wars end. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 3-28 Nov Christmas Exhibition: Part 1 The first of two great collections for Christmas from selected artists. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312. www.birchamgallery.co.uk/exhibitions 17 Nov - 23 Apr Ken Kiff This exhibition of selected works from the modernist figurative artist features ‘The Sequence’, a series of vivid paintings that form a chain, repeating and developing imagery and colour.’ Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, UEA Norwich, NR4 7TJ. scva.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 11 Oct - 15 Dec Cards for Good Causes ‘Cards for Good Causes’ offer a wide range of Christmas cards, wrapping paper, gift tags ans advent calendars representing over 40 national and local charities. The Forum,

Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF 01603 727950. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 7-18 Nov Norwich Film Festival The festival will screen over 100 films including regional premieres of incredible Feature Films, short films and talks, panels and networking events with the chance to see the odd celebrity or two who will discuss their work in film. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF 01603 727950. www.norwichfilmfestival.co.uk 15-17 Nov Modern Country Crafts Christmas Fair A craft and gift fair with an eclectic mix of stalls selling quality bespoke products, sourced and made locally. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950. moderncountrycrafts.co.uk 29 Nov - 17 Dec - Selected dates Candle Tours A magical opportunity to see the magnificent state rooms adorned with opulent Christmas decorations and beautiful flickering candlelight. Holkham Estate, Wells-next- the-Sea, NR23 1AB. www.holkham.co.uk Weekends from 30 Nov - 23 Dec Great Yarmouth Winter Festival A mixture of wooden chalets and gazebos will take shape in the Market Square, creating a perfect festive atmosphere with unique gifts, handmade crafts and treats for everyone on offer. Market Square, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2AX AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 11 & 25 Nov Blakeney Antique & Collectors Fair Maximum 24 tables. Well attended throughout the year. Free parking. Open 10am-4pm. Admission £1. Blakeney Village Hall, Blakeney, NR25 7NQ. 01263 713120 13-Nov Antiques & Collectors Fair Community Hall Dealers in glass, porcelain, ceramics, books, coins, bank notes, medals, jewellery, retro accessories, shabby chic and small furniture and much more. Free entry. Community Hall Garden Street, Cromer, NR27 9HH 07501 782821

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Nearly 30 burgers to choose from (inc. vegetarian) or you can build your own

Also available:

Marinated Grilled Meats, Pizzas, Pastas, Salads and a great kids’ menu! Restaurant & Bar Open 11am to 11pm 7 days a week Live Jazz on Monday nights

Try our ‘no bun burger’. Low carb, Paleo friendly and Keto friendly.

01234 717 000 www.olneykitchen.co.uk

Olney-Kitchens-restaurant Olneys Kitchens

36A Market Place, Olney, Buckinghamshire MK46 4AJ

A traditional Christmas in Olney

Beds, Bucks & Herts

ometimes you just can’t beat a historic market town and there’s no better time to visit than at Christmas. Known for its independent retail and food scene, Olney knows how to celebrate the festive season in style.

Olney Town Council hosts perhaps one of the biggest and most renowned Christmas events in the region each year, ‘A Dickens of a Christmas’. Bringing a piece of Victorian England to the town and attracting thousands of visitors, it’s a must for anyone who loves Christmas or who wants to experience traditional festive fun – trust us, even Scrooge would find it difficult not to get into the Christmas spirit here! This year’s annual ‘Dickens of a Christmas’ market will be held on Sunday 9 December, 10am to 4pm. Traders dressed in Victorian clothes will occupy Olney’s Market Place and High Street with stalls selling gifts and festive food. The Farmers market will be held on the same day, offering delicious local produce. It’s the ideal opportunity to get some tasty ingredients if you’re planning a Christmas party. As the smell of roasting chestnut and mulled wine fill the air, visitors can browse everything from an array of gifts, holly wreaths and wrapping to handmade crafts. Delicious mulled wine, hot chocolate and turkey rolls, among other tempting festive treats, offer the perfect excuse to warm up.

The Cowper and Newton Museum, which celebrates the literary history of two men who lived in the town and the story of their friendship, will be putting on extra festive events as well as selling warming drinks – perfect if you need a break from the cold and want to get to know more about this beautiful town. Decorated trees will line the high street, lights will sparkle and the town’s main tree will all add to the festive atmosphere. There will be an opportunity for children to visit Father Christmas and his elves in the grotto, pet the reindeers and enjoy fairground rides. There are brass bands, street entertainers and not to mention three indoor craft fayres. Even visitors are encouraged to dress up in Dickensian theme but be warned the Dickens Day is renowned as being the coldest day of the year, so wrap up well. If the cold becomes too much, most of the town’s pubs and restaurants will be open where you can warm up with a nice hot beverage. Almost everyone gets that expectant tingle at Christmastime as the holiday season jingles into view and nowhere will that be truer than at Olney’s newest pub – The Cherry Tree. Exquisitely rebuilt in a Listed mansion, this will be

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Come to us for bespoke furniture and kitchens and ideas / gifts for the home. We also have a fantastic display of Christmas decorations following on from the tradition of previous years.

10 Market Place, Olney MK46 4EA 01234 711065

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Best and largest collection of evening wear/party wear in Beds, Bucks, Northants... With your very own in house stylist... To find that perfect dress

We are passionate about wood and since our launch ten years ago, our suite of products has lead the market in their breadth of application, uniqueness of design, quality of construction and performance in use. The installation of well-made, well-specified timber windows and doors can really enhance the beauty and value of your home and we look forward to working with you on your exciting project!

0845 652 7300

1st Floor Dagnall House, Stanley Court, Olney, Buckinghamshire, MK46 5NH

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01234 712200

11a Market Place, Olney, MK46 4EA, 01234 930080 36 Beech Road St Albans, AL3 5AS, 01727 809944

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OPEN: mON - SAT : 9.30 - 5

7 Market Place, Olney, Bucks, MK46 4EA Fresh FOOD Feeling hungry? We have a range of sandwiches, bagels and salads freshly made to order featuring ingredients from a number of local suppliers. We also have home made waffles with savoury or sweet topping. Don’t miss out on our ever changing cakes and traybakes either!

Delicious DRINKS For traditional tea lovers, we serve loose leaf tea in vintage tea cups... maybe coffee is your thing? Try our Hand-Roasted coffee or for a truly indulgent chocolate experience, try our velvety smooth Marimba hot chocolate. We offer a wide choice of milk shakes inc. snickers as well as the classics.

Kids PICK N MIX

Old CLASSICS

The sweet (no pun intended) aroma of our kid's pick ‘n’ mix will awaken your senses when you walk into our sweet shop.

With over 50 varieties to choose from, our jars of old-fashioned retro sweets will have you taking a trip down memory lane.

FACILITIES We also offer Free WI-FI, High-chairs and Baby changing facilities with 3 hours free parking in town centre*

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Based in the lovely market town of Olney, providing quality antiques since 2003 Stocking a varied selection of goods, including over 100 paintings from the 18th century through to modern art, mirrors of all shapes and sizes, a healthy selection of glassware including all the best names at a fraction of the price in high street. Costume jewellery and a strong silverware offering alongside porcelain

Leo Antiques & Interiors 19 Market Place, Olney Tel no 01234 240003 - 11am to 4pm

(Closed Monday apart from Bank Holidays)

Images by Jeremy Rawlings

The Cherry Tree’s first Christmas and Stevie Watts, the General Manager, described her key hopes for her first Christmas in charge of the town’s popular bar and restaurant. “Traditional, magical, and relaxed – that’s what I want our guests to say about us the next day. We want them to feel as though they’re in a cosy “home-from-home” atmosphere – where just on this one day of the year – we’re going to be doing all the work. I want all our Christmas guests to simply relax and unwind, whilst they have a proper catch-up with all their friends, and nearest and dearest.”

visit. The charming Buckinghamshire town will be switching on its Christmas lights on 24 November, accompanied by a Christmas Fair at St Peter & St Paul’s Parish Church. The atmosphere will be buzzing as local craftsmen come together to sell homemade gifts, arts and cakes. There will be mulled wine and carol singing inside the church after the town’s Christmas Lights have been switched on. The festive fun continues into December with a Christmas Tree Festival from 14-16 December at St Peter & St Paul’s Parish Church, 10am-4pm. Marvel at the extravaganza; a host of different trees designed and decorated by children’s groups, schools, organisations and businesses in the town. To ensure you’re prepared for the big day, another Christmas Fair will take place at Castlemead Court Garden on 16 December, 11am to 4pm.

Whether you’re thinking of a decadent Christmas day lunch with loved ones, catching up with special friends over a festive cocktail and yuletide nibbles or celebrating the joy of Christmas with work colleagues over a gourmet buffet, The Cherry Tree’s team of talented elves have everything wrapped up to keep the festive cheer flowing. Within the streets of Olney and hidden down alleyways and courtyards, you’ll find everything you need create a perfect Christmas. Interior and gift stores such as The Nest at no.9 and Afterglow will be stacked with gifts for loved ones and cute Christmas décor, while fashion retailers such Noa Noa, Dusk til Dawn and Valeria C, will have you looking your best throughout the festive season. Nearby in Newport Pagnell If that isn’t enough to put you in the seasonal spirit then nearby Newport Pagnell should also be on your list to

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Specialising in floral designs for every occasion, traditional or contemporary. Weddings, Funerals & special occasions, unique gifts, balloons, chocolates, fruit, hampers and plants Created and presented by our friendly, expert team of florists

43 High Street, Newport Pagnell

01908 611082 www.bluebellflowers.co.uk

Winter Scenes in Newport Pagnell Images courtesy of Newport Pagnell Town Council

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Providing fine Turkish dining in wonderful surroundings in the centre of the town of Newport Pagnell

Authentic Turkish food, friendly environment and most importantly the best customer service possible. Sunday Lunch 12-5pm ÂŁ14.95 per person inc Coffee & Desserts

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All Day lunch menu Mon-Sat 12-5pm ÂŁ8.95 per person inc soft or hot drink

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53 High Street, Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, MK16 8AU

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Christmas lights Christmas begins with the light switch on taking place Sunday 28 November from 2.30pm. Crowds will gather in the Market Square for fun festive entertainment in the lead up to the switch on.

Festive feast Whether you’ve visited one of the festive events or spent hours shopping at Ampthill’s independent boutiques, take a moment to warm up and refuel at one of the town’s restaurants or cafes. Ampthill Deli & Kitchen is perfect for grabbing a coffee or quick bite, while Eileens Restaurant or Fratelli offer a more leisurely dining experience.

he historic market town of Ampthill hosts a magical Christmas scene every year, and this month is no exception. If you’re heading to this Bedfordshire gem, prepared to be dazzled by twinkling lights and festive spirit.

Festive market It’s never too late, or early for that matter, to start your Christmas shopping and if you’re looking to give someone a one-off or thoughtful gift this Christmas, why not take a browse at the Christmas Fair at Parkside Hall on Woburn Street on Saturday 17 November. There will be a variety of stalls featuring handmade jewellery, cushions, bunting, Scandinavian Christmas décor, a classic tombola and much more. Plus Father Christmas will be stopping by to entertain little visitors!

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and where better to celebrate the magic of Christmas than at The White Hart in the heart of Ampthill. Their buzzing venue will be filled to the brim with festive cheer and a yuletide atmosphere, from office parties to family celebrations. Steeped in history as an 18th century coaching inn, the building has been lovingly restored with the original Prince of Wales feathers residing above the open fireplace.

Christmas Tree Festival Ampthill’s biggest and most popular festive event is the Christmas Tree Festival. This year the festival will take place 1 to 2 December at St Andrew’s Church. From 10am-4.30pm. Across the two days there will be a jampacked schedule of activities including live music, stalls with Christmas crafts and seasonal refreshments. The festival is an exciting and merry event, which will display a range of decorated Christmas trees that have been submitted by local businesses, organisations and schools. Pantomime It wouldn’t be Christmas without slapstick humour from a pantomime classic. On 15 and 16 December, Maurice Kachuk will put on the traditional family pantomime of ‘Aladdin and his wonderful lamp’ at The Connolly Hall at Redborne School. Tickets are priced £13 for adults, and

Image: The White Hart

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photo credit: rawpixel.com

Movement and Mind for Modern Living

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

Classes, workshops and introduction courses: Yoga, Pilates, Meditation, Tai Chi, Functional Movement & Rehab

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Christmas in Ampthill Images courtesy of Ampthill Town Council

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What’s on: Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 8-Nov Joe Lycett Pop in and see Joe Lycett on his brand new stand-up tour, where he’ll be sharing jokes, paintings and some of the pathetic internet trolling he’s been up to recently. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 9-Nov Stephen K Amos As Brexit looms on, Trump reigns rampant and everyone seems pushed to extremes, Stephen’s main aim is to cheer us up. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY www.courttheatre.co.uk 10-Nov Gregg Wallace: Doesn’t Get Tougher Than This Join Gregg as he answers the questions you’ve always wanted to ask, shares classic anecdotes and dishes up a sumptuous serving of MasterChef’s juiciest bits. Complete with a Q&A, this really is a must-see event for any foodie and Gregg fan! Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 10-Nov Joanna Lumley; It’s All About Me Joanna will take audiences through her hilarious and interesting adventures from her incredible career spanning more than four decades, recounting some never heard before stories. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 11-Nov That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show The UK’s most popular rock ‘n’ roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy! Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 12-17 Nov Oklahoma! Set in a Western Indian territory just after the turn of the century, the

high-spirited rivalry between the local farmers and cowboys provides the colourful background against which Curly, a handsome cowboy, and Laurey, a winsome farm girl, play out their love story. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www. rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 13-17 Nov Guys and Dolls With a live band on stage playing the dynamic score, action-packed staging, romance and plenty of laughs, this colourful musical has everything needed to create the perfect theatre experience. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 14-Nov Sara Pascoe: LadsLadsLads Always honest, always regretting it later, Sara opens her heart and mouth again to share the adventures of the last year. Full of jokes, hope and white wine ‘LadsLadsLads’ is the thinking person’s stag do. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 14-17 Nov The Vicar of Dibley An hilarious and not to be missed evening for all the family, adapted from the popular television series of the same name. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 14-18 Nov Nativity The Musical Featuring all of your favourite sing-a-long hits from the movies including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, She’s the Brightest Star and a whole host of new songs filled with the spirit of Christmas, Nativity! Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 20-24 Nov The Comedy About A Bank Robbery A priceless diamond has been entrusted to the city bank, an institu-

tion so corrupt that even the security guards are on the take. Can it be safely stored or will it all go horribly wrong? Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 20-23 Nov Vote! ‘Vote!’ is a new play entirely devised and performed by Certain Age. Using material from a wide variety of sources the piece explore how women gained the vote and takes a, sometimes light-hearted, look at how attitudes have changed (or not .!) over the last century.The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org 20-21 Nov Private Peaceful Commemorating the 100th year anniversary of the end of World War One, ‘Private Peaceful’ relives the life of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. Broadway Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3DD 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com 22-Nov Ruby Wax, the monk and the neuroscientist; How to be Human ‘How to be Human’ is the show you need to help you upgrade your mind as much as you’ve upgraded your iPhone. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 26 Nov - 1 Dec Fame the Musical Based on the 1980 phenomenal pop culture film, ‘Fame The Musical’ is the international smash hit sensation following the lives of students at New York’s High School For The Performing Arts as they navigate their way through the highs and lows, the romances and the heartbreaks and the ultimate elation of life. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 29 Nov - 1 Dec The 39 Steps Actors play over 100 different

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characters in this brilliant staging of ’39 Steps’ set in London,1935. The actors’ multi-role episodes and comedic use of props will be sure to have its audience laughing out of their seats! Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 29-Nov Joanna Eden: Jazz at the Movies, A Swinging Christmas! ‘Jazz At The Movies: A Swinging Christmas’ gathers jazzy festive favourites as made famous by Ella, Eartha, Frank, Doris, Dean, Bing and a whole gang of cool celluloid cats and hip Hollywood chicks. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 30 Nov - 26 Jan Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs A magical adventure to meet a Wicked Queen with a jealous streak, a handsome prince who’s searching for love and the fairest of all damsels in distress. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk MUSIC 9-Nov The Counterfeit Stones: Street Fighting Sham Why pay a fortune to see ants in a stadium when for a fraction of the price you can get up close and smell the faking brilliance of the Counterfeit Stones - described as Rolling Stones’ hooky masterpiece? Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 11-Nov The High Kings The new live show will showcase fan favourites from The High Kings extensive catalogue from the past 10 years and will feature some new additions too. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 23-24 Nov The Best of Wham! A show featuring the best of George, Andrew, Pepsi and Shirlie with sensational vocals, choreography, costumes and an awesome live band. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www. rhodesbishopsstortford.org. uk

24-Nov Best of Queen ‘The Best of Queen’ show features a selection of the most loved and iconic classics from across Queen’s entire back catalogue creating a live stage show which catches the essence of this most incredible British band. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 28-Nov The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain The Ukes provide pure entertainment, dead-pan British humour and irresistible foot-tapping music. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 16 Oct - 10 Nov Gryphaea and Friends Textiles, prints and paintings by artist Melanie Ewer. Courtyards Gallery, Port Vale, Hertford, SG14 3AA. 01992 509596. www.courtyardarts.org.uk

23-24 Nov Hertford Christmas Gala The annual Christmas Gala event will take place on Friday with Christmas markets, street entertainment, performance stage, petting reindeer and stalls, Christmas grotto and Christmas tree light switch on. 3.30pm-8pm. The event is followed by the Think Hertford, Think Christmas event on 24 November, which will fetaure craft workshops and seasonal offers. Hertford Town Centre 24-Nov British Red Cross Christmas Fair The programme will include demonstrations, tastings & activities. Live performances by local school choirs. Stalls selling superb, quality items & many handmade gifts & products. Homemade cakes, refreshments, raffle, tombola & much more. The Great Hall, Bedford Boys School, DeParys Avenue, Bedford 28-Nov Christmas wreath-making and shopping event A festive evening to decorate a Christmas wreath and browse the shop without the crowds. Design and decorate your own wreath with the expert help of florists from Edesborough flowers. Dunstable Downs, Chiltern Gateway Centre AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 11-Nov Sarratt Village Hall Antique & Collectables Fair Antique, collectables and glass. 30 stalls. Open: 9am - 4pm. Admission: £1. Sarratt Village Hall, The Green, WD3 6AS

17-24 Nov Janet Cook, Sue Melville and Anja Penger-Onyett One Week Show An exciting display of artwork from this trio of Eagle artists. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 24 Nov - 3 Feb Imprinted Working from studios in Hertfordshire, artists Jane Glynn and Suman Gujral present solo exhibitions in neighbouring galleries. Each with 17-Nov Stables Antique & a particular style exploring the Collectables Market experience of time and memory, this Pick up unusual curiosities including exhibition shares personal autobifurniture, mirrors, hats and ographical subjects through sensitive ornaments! 10am – 5pm. paintings, prints and associated Hatfield House, Hatfield Park, ephemera. St Albans Museum + Hatfield AL9 5NB. 01707 287010 Gallery, Market Place, St Peter’s www.hatfield-house.co.uk Street, St Albans, AL3 5DJ www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk 18-Nov Big St Albans Antique & Vintage & Fair SPECIAL EVENTS 9-11 Nov Knebworth Winter Festival This huge indoor venue will be packed full of stalls selling all manner Featuring 200 craft, gifts, food & of weird and wonderful items. From drink stalls, a themed outdoor food quality antiques, to vintage fashion, and drink village, programmed furniture to jewellery, collectables, feature stage and an enchanting curios or art. 10am - 4pm. Entry £3 Santa’s grotto. Knebworth House, Oaklands College, St Albans Campus, Knebworth, SG3 6PY. 01438 812661 Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL4 0JA www.knebworthhouse.com

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Finding a good gift fair can be difficult. Mass-produced, imported goods just don’t have the care, attention and quality. Orange Tree Fairs allows us to showcase the fact that not only are we local, independent traders but that everything you see is our own work. Join us for the annual Christmas Fair at Over Community and Conference Centre (CB24 5NW) FREE ENTRY.

Sunday 11th November from 11:05am to 4pm We would love to see you there, you’ll finds gifts for all the family, including pets and cakes!

A FAMILY CHRISTMAS SHOW AT

Please follow us social media: /orangetreefairs /orangetreefairs Support local & handmade!

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TICKETS JUST £15.50 (£10 CON) FOR AGES 5+

JUNCTION.CO.UK BOX OFFICE 01223 511511 CAMBRIDGE JUNCTION CLIFTON WAY CAMBRIDGE CB1 7GX

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Christmas Gift & Craft Fair Sunday 18th November £2 Admission, u16s FREE

Christmas Parties Celebrate with friends and colleagues Saturday 1st & 8th December Tickets from £38.50

See in 2019 in style New Year’s Eve Party

Saturday 1st December & Saturday 8th December Doors & drinks reception 7 Dinner at 7.45pm / Carriages at 1am

Monday 31st December Tickets £25

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1 November Forbidden Nights 3 November Boogie Nite 9 November Jim Davidson 10 November Big Band Concert 11 November Indoor Car Boot 16 November How to Hide a Lion 18 November Christmas Gift & Craft Fair 23 November 80s Mania 24 & 25 November St Ives Antiques Fair 26 November Tea Dance 28 November Burgess Bingo 30 November Forever Jackson 1 December Merry & Bright Christmas Party 8 December Jingle Bell Ball 10 December Tea Dance 19 December Christmas Bingo 20 December Santa’s Christmas Party

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Christmas in Cambridge C

ambridge is beautiful at any time of year but during the festive season the city has an electric atmosphere that just can’t be beaten. The lights sparkle throughout the historic streets, the market square comes alive with festive smells and carol singers gather to entertain shoppers. The switch on There’s plenty to see and do with The Big Switch On being the first of one of many festive events. Taking place on 18 November Cambridge BID invites you to join them in the fun and festivities. This year sees twinkling new lights and schemes across the city centre. Instead of a traditional Christmas tree, the centrepiece for the display will be a dazzling walkthrough illuminated tree in Market Square. The new LED illuminations will additionally include enhanced schemes on Green Street, Bridge Street and Magdalene Bridge – while The Guildhall and many of the trees around the city will also be picked out with glittering strands and

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golden uplighters for the very first time. The superfestive event - which takes place in Market Square on Sunday 18 November promises a fun-packed day for all the family. There will be a lively line-up of Christmas entertainment from local schools, performing arts groups, choirs and singers such as busker Tom Korni, Rock Choir, Razzamatazz, Tom Splitz, Sing! and the Fulbourn primary school choir. Performances start at noon and carry on until Santa arrives at 4.30pm, followed by the main Switch-On event by the mayor and a top-secret celebrity at 5pm. The Grand Arcade will also be hosting individual activities on the same day, with a switch on of its lights by BBC Radio Cambridgeshire presenter Jez Sallis at 4pm. There will be entertainment from choirs and musicians from 12pm to help get shoppers into the seasonal spirit. The Cambridge Theatre Group will be showing extracts from their new show Peter Pan as well as a performance from the Stagecoach Choir & Dance Group, with the everpopular Rock Choir doing the final build up to 4pm. Stores will be open and stocked with Christmas gifts, with many serving mince pies and festive drinks. The Grand

Cambridgeshire

Arcade’s confetti canons have been given some extra pizazz this year, throwing glitter up to 12 metres into the air, covering the mall in stars.

Christmas Shopping With a huge range of big brand names and independent stores, Cambridge is the perfect place to tick off presents on your Christmas list. With three shopping centres within the city centre, boutiques, crafts and a market to explore, you’ll find no shortage of gift ideas.

Events and panto In the lead up to Christmas, Cambridge theatres and attractions will be a hub for entertainment. Following on from the city’s Christmas market, The Botanic Garden is holding a Wreath Making Workshop on 3 December. Guided by award-winning florist Sam Cotterell, you’ll be able to create your own festive wreath using a selection of foliage, fresh fruit and decorations. The event must be pre-booked and tickets cost £50 (www.botanic.cam.ac.uk).

The popular Mill Road Winter Fair returns on Saturday 1 December from 10.30am-4.30pm with a range of festive stalls, food and music guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit. Last year the event attracted over 10,000 visitors so expect a busy and buzzing atmosphere. If you can’t make the Fair, stop by Market Square in the lead up to the big day which will be busier than ever offering local produce, festive treats and crafts. One of the great things about Cambridge is that it’s full of independent stores, great for purchasing one-off gifts and supporting local trade. From fashions and homewares to art and food, the city’s independent scene is booming. You’ll find quirky, one off and meaningful gifts which are not available from high street stores, plus benefit from shorter queues and a personal service. You can find out more about Cambridge’s independent retailers at www.independent-cambridge.co.uk Cambridge’s theatres have a jam-packed schedule. The Junction will be showing ‘Snow White’ from 5-31 December, Cambridge Arts Theatre will be hosting ‘Aladdin’ from 29 November to 6 January, The Mumford Theatre will entertain with silly puppetry filled ‘Nativity’ on 2 December, a heart-warming version of ‘A Christmas Carol’ on 10 December and a laugh out loud panto of ‘Cinderella’ on 15 and 16 December. With so much going on, you’ll be thankful to put your feet up on Christmas Day!

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Tofind findout outabout aboutour our upcoming upcoming events, events, please our website To pleasevisit visit our website www.raptorfoundation.org.uk www.raptorfoundation.org.uk www.facebook.com/rapfound/ PHONE: 01487 741140 • EMAIL: info@raptorfoundation.org.uk PHONE: 01487 741140 • EMAIL: info@raptorfoundation.org.uk The Heath, St. Ives Road, Woodhurst, Cambridgeshire, PE28 3BT The heath, St. Ives Road, Woodhurst, Cambridgeshire, PE28 3BT

What’s on: Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 9 Oct - 21 Nov Footlights ‘Footlights’ bring you the funniest songs, sketches, monologues and stand-up in an hour of non-stop, back-to-back fun-filled hilarity. ADC Theatre, Park St, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. www.corpusplayroom.com

some top tipples and start you on the road to vinous pleasure. You grab a glass and move from table to table to taste from the hundreds of wines on offer. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

forgiveness and hope. Expect show girls and Shakespeare, sex and scandal, mischief and mistaken identity - and butterflies by the thousand. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

7-Nov Sing-along-Grease This is your chance to don those pink jackets, grease up those quiffs and let your inhibitions go for an evening where you are the stars. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 7-10 Nov High School Musical Troy is a star basketball player. Gabriella is a shy science geek new to East High School. Together they form an unlikely couple with their shared passion for music that they need to keep hidden from their friends and families while being faced with the challenges of growing up: schoolwork, identity, and first love. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge CB5 8AS www.corpusplayroom.com

10-Nov Figurines An exercise in transformation and perpetual movement, ‘Figurines’ is inspired by whirling dervish dance. A dancer sets off on a spinning journey of becoming by shaping and re-shaping herself continuously. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk

25-Nov Festive Frolics Mixing songs, readings and an unexpected tune or three, all proceeds will go towards charities providing for both patient and staff benefits, so push the puddings and stuffing to one side, dig deep in your pockets for a valiant cause, and enjoy a truly unique evening of fun! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com

7-Nov The Knot You’re invited to a completely different wedding celebration where the bride, groom, best man and bridesmaids are all world-class dancers and audience members are the wedding guests. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT . 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 9-10 Nov Bullish ‘Bullish’ pits ancient mythology against modern gender navigation to furiously disrupt, traverse and rewrite the rulebook. Stepping into the ring with a gender fierce ensemble of hopers and renegades, ‘Bullish’ is a story about packing, passing, and gambling your way out of the labyrinth. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 10-Nov Three Wine Men Oz, Tim and Olly will be on hand and ready to point you in the direction of

14-17 Nov The Full Monty Six mill workers, out of work, luck, cash and hope, chase a dream to make money to hold their lives together by becoming the next Chippendales! More than that, they vow to overcome their personal inhibitions and go ‘The Full Monty’. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 17-Nov Notflix ‘Notflix’ combines the taste profiles of a room full of theatre go-ers to create a brilliantly hilarious and completely improvised viewing experience – a full musical. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 18-Nov Snow Queen Mike Kenny has taken Hans Christian Andersen’s most highly acclaimed story and simplified it into a tale for the young. Ivan Stott returns to tutti frutti (Underneath a Magical Moon) to create memorable music and songs accompanied by a typically beautiful tutti frutti design. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 20-24 Nov Wise Children A big, bawdy tangle of theatrical joy and pain, ‘Wise Children’ is a celebration of show business, family,

26-27 Nov Sherlock Holmes: The Sign of Four Crammed full of adventure, romance, comedy and of course one or two rather brilliant deductions, ‘The Sign of Four’ is Arthur Conan Doyle’s epic second Sherlock Holmes tale, a breath-taking yarn brought to life in this spectacular new stage adaptation. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT . 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 26-Nov Neural Notwerks Half improvised, half sketch show, ‘Neural Notwerks’ returns in a blaze of computer-generated glory to spit out the most uncannily apt yet nonsensical comments about today’s current social and political climate. Probably. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. www.corpusplayroom.com 29 Nov - 6 Jan Aladdin The most thrilling pantomime adventure of them all returns to Cambridge this Christmas, as Aladdin flies into the Arts Theatre to make all your wishes come true! Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

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MUSIC 9-Nov West Road Remembers An evening of music marking the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Armistice in 1918. Music from World War 1 to the present day, to remember and uplift the spirits. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 0845 196 2320 www.anglia.ac.uk 13-Nov Gogo Penguin Manchester-based leftfield piano trio GoGo Penguin are pianist Chris Illingworth, bassist Nick Blacka and drummer Rob Turner. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 15-Nov Reef Return of the West Country rockers fronted by Gary Stringer who first found fame in the mid 90s thanks to their song ‘Naked’ being used in a Sony Minidisc commercial. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 18-Nov Think Floyd - The 2018 Tour This extraordinary band, dubbed the “Definitive Pink Floyd Experience”, are renowned for their stunning celebration of the music of one of the world’s greatest bands. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 23-Nov YolanDa Brown Known for her unique fusion of Reggae, Jazz and Soul, this tour features music from her critically acclaimed albums, plus many crowd favourites. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 24-Nov Russell Watson Captivating to watch and enchanting to listen to, Russell Watson continues to wow audiences with his enigmatic and entertaining live performances. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 25-Nov Blues & Roots Ensemble: The Music of Charles Mingus Presented by Cambridge International Jazz Festival. Mumford Thea-

tre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 27-Nov Blake Christmas Classics Back by popular demand, BritAward-winning vocalists BLAKE celebrate Christmas in style, with a show featuring over 20 festive anthems, top class musicians, hand-picked choirs and guaranteed snow-storms every night! The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 29-Nov That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show The UK’s most popular Rock ‘n’ Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy! The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 29-Nov All Saints All Saints have to date sold over 12million records, had five No.1 singles, 4 hit albums and won two BRIT awards. After a 10 year hiatus they returned in 2016 with the hugely successful album ‘Red Flag’, which reached No.3 in the Official UK Albums Chart. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 2 Oct - 28 Jan Jerusalem: Coinage and empire from antiquity to the 19th century This special display explores the history of Jerusalem through the coins minted and used in the city from the earliest coinage to that of the Ottoman Empire. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 10 Nov - 24 Dec Christmas Cracker 2018 Picture, sculpture, craftwork, hand made original print and jewellery. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk 17 Nov - 22 Dec Taken by Storm, the art of Storm Thorgerson and

StormStudios A stunning Christmas exhibition featuring the art of Storm Thorgerson and StormStudios. Babylon Gallery, Waterside, Ely, CB7 4AU. 01353 616991. www.babylonarts.org.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 5-Nov Cambridge Fireworks & Bonfire Night Cambridge’s Bonfire Night is one of the most popular events in the city’s calendar and Cambridge City Council are proud to have provided this free event for over 20 years. Midsummer Common, Cambridge. 10-Nov Ely Fireworks 2018 The Guy Fawkes competition will be judged by the Mayor of Ely at 6pm and the bonfire lit at 6.30pm. Fireworks spectacular starts at 7pm. In addition there is a fun fair and food stalls. Cherry Hill Park, Ely 14-17 Nov Ely Cathedral Christmas Gift & Food Fair Over 120 bespoke trade stalls, plus live demonstrations, musical entertainment, cafe & food vendors, a festive food hall, vintage carousel plus reindeer and children’s entertainment (Saturday Only). Ely Cathedral. 01353 660349 www.elycathedral.org 29-Nov Gin Tasting Try six different gins with Fever Tree tonic and learn all about the best garnishes to choose. Cambridgeshire Wine School, The Royal Cambridge Hotel (hired venue), Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1PY. 01223 655391. www. cambridgeshirewineschool.com AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 4-Nov Great Chishill Antiques & Vintage Fair Approx. 20 stalls packed full of antiques, collectables and vintage items. 10am - 4pm. Entry £1. Great Chishill Village Hall, SG8 8SH 24-25 Nov Hinchingbrooke House Antiques Fair 40 + dealers in fine antique furniture, pictures, silver, jewellery, clocks, ceramics and much more. open 10am - 4pm. Entry £3. Brampton Road, Huntingdon, PE29 3BN 01379 586134

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hether you love the idea of browsing a traditional Christmas market, taking in a pantomime or just looking for a great place to have some festive food, Chelmsford has it all! Visit the continental street market Bond Street, Chelmsford’s stylish shopping area, which hosts a Continental Market for one special day on 25 November. They’ll be stalls selling homeware and art, Italian nibbles and gluhwein, with entertainment, Santa and more. Opening at 9am until 6pm with official opening by the Mayor of Chelmsford at 10am, the event is being run by Chelmsford City Council with Mencap, supporting local charities. You shall go to the Chelmsford Civic Theatre’s Panto Grab your glass slippers and ball gown, Cinderella, the fairy godmother of pantomimes, is coming to Chelmsford’s Civic Theatre from Friday 30 November 2018 to Sunday 6 January 2019.

Cinderella will be played by new star, Caitlin Rutter and they’ll be a special appearance from two Shetland ponies harnessed to Cinderella’s sparkling coach. You’ll be guaranteed a show filled with fun, songs and magic! For more information and to book tickets call the Box Office on 01245 606505 or book online at www. chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres. Tickets are £23 (full-price) and £20 (concession) with special rates for groups, families and schools. Feel fantastic at Hylands Estate Christmas Frost Fair This wonderful new Christmas fair has over 120 exhibitors showing original crafts and gifts, plus fine foods direct from local suppliers. Dressed as a traditional frost fair, local entertainers will perform through the day, plus Father Christmas is on hand to collect the all-important lists! The event runs from 10am to 5pm with festive food available, price £6 for adults, concessions, £5 and children under 16, free. To book visit battenburgevents.co.uk or call 01487 814800. Come see the Chelmsford Lights Much more than a light switch on, on Sunday 18 November there’ll be a whole afternoon of entertainment taking place in the high street with music on the main stage, walkabout acts, festive face painting and, after the switch on at 5pm, a fireworks finale. The shops will be open for you to browse and refreshments available.

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What’s on in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 7-10 Nov Peter Pan - A Musical Adventure JM Barrie’s timeless tale of the boy who refuses to grow up is reborn in this spectacular musical, with a beautiful score by Stiles and Drewe. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 7-Nov Rich Hall’s Hoedown The Hoedown begins as a withering dissection of Trump’s America, but ends up being a celebration of Americana. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 9-Nov The Whitney Houston Show A critically acclaimed live concert honouring the talent, music and memory of Whitney Houston. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-onSea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 10-Nov For the Fallen ‘For the Fallen’ brings together 10 of the nation’s most powerful poems about war and remembrance, and combines them with specially chosen pieces of music performed by Matthew Trusler, violin, and Ashley Wass, piano. Mercury Theatre. Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 10-Nov Henning Wehn You couldn’t make it up; surely the German Comedy Ambassador Henning Wehn hasn’t bosched out yet another new show? And what’s he still doing here anyway? Well, his lack of transferable skills is what keeps him here and his belief that practise makes perfect is what keeps him going. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 11-Nov Last Night of the Autumn Proms

Uplifting classics crowned with a Great British Proms finale. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA . 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 13-17 Nov Going Postal Moist von Lipwig is a liar, scoundrel, conman and Ankh Morpork’s last hope for a decent postal service. All that stands in his way is is clay golem parole officer, an elderly junior postman, a pin collector and the murderous board of the Grand Trunk and their chairman Reacher Gilt. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 16-17 Nov Some Kind Of Wonderful This is a brand new musical that takes us on a fantasy filled journey back in time, and to the world inside a very magical toy shop. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 17-Nov Robin Windsor This autumn sees one of BBC Strictly Come Dancing’s favourite professionals, Robin Windsor, heads out on tour for the very last time! Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354 www.braintreeartstheatre.com 18-Nov Elf The Musical JNR Based on the cherished New Line Cinema hit. ‘Elf JR’ features songs by Tony Award-nominees, Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, with a book by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 20-24 Nov Henry IV Part One Henry IV is a king exhausted from fighting to save his throne. To make things worse his son is happier drinking and carousing with the loveable rogue, Sir John Falstaff, in the taverns and brothels of East London. This adds up to an evening

packed full of comedy and drama. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 24 Nov - 20 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ promises to be a glittering Christmas treat for the whole family to enjoy. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 28 Nov - 1 Dec Wizard Of Oz The award-winning musical based on the 1939 classic movie, features all the enchanting characters and timeless musical numbers you know and love. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 28 Nov - 6 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk Join Jack and dotty mum Dame Trott as they scale the Beanstalk, outwit the Giant and are reunited with Jill, the girl Jack loves. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 30-Nov Felicity Ward - Busting A Nut Felicity Ward is back and ready to bust a nutful of jokes. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 30 Nov - 6 Jan Aladdin Featuring an exciting blend of live music, quality professional performers, stunning sets, lavish costumes and jaw dropping effects, The Harlow Playhouse is the home of family pantomime in Essex this Christmas. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com MUSIC 9-Nov Hooray for Hollywood Step back in time to 1920s London

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and discover the most unforgettable show songs that made their way across the Atlantic as “Hooray for Hollywood” unveils the influential music that helped shape a legacy of opulence still much admired today. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 16-Nov Phil Crosby Jnr - The Great American Songbook The grandson of the legendary entertainer, Bing Crosby. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 16-Nov Johnny Cash Roadshow JCR are now recognised and loved as a band in their own right, unrivalled by any other that truly celebrates the career of a music legend, Johnny Cash. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 18-Nov The Best Of John Williams Enjoy this concert packed full of the Hollywood heavyweight’s most celebrated and iconic music. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 18-Nov Bye Bye Baby A tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 20-Nov Christmas Memories It is a truly spectacular mix of over 60 of your favourite Christmas songs and carols, 40 stunning costume changes, lots of good old fashioned festive fun, taking you back to a time when Christmas really was the most wonderful time of the year. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 28-Nov That’ll Be The Day Topped with lashings of Christmas spirit get ready to party as ‘That’ll Be The Day’ returns with its brand new 2018 Christmas Show! Cliffs

Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 30-Nov Totally Tina The show re-creates the spectacle and energy of her live shows with a six-piece live band, four stunning dancers and Justine’s incredible impersonation of the Queen of Rock and Soul. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY 01376 556 354 www.braintreeartstheatre.com ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Until 6 Jan Colchester In The First World War Find out about Colchester during the First World War in this temporary exhibition to commemorate 100 years since its end. Colchester Castle Museum, Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1TJ 22 Sep - 31 Dec flyingleaps: Art on the Streets A collaboration with flyingleaps, an organisation that commissions artists to create posters in response to contemporary politics, events and ideas. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1JH. 01206 713 700. firstsite.uk 10-11 Nov Annual Exhibition & Sale The Fry Gallery’s ever-popular ‘Annual Exhibition and Sale’ takes place in the Gallery. The Fry Art Gallery, Castle Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1BD. 01799 513779 www.fryartgallery.org SPECIAL EVENTS 3-Nov Maldon Fireworks Show Organised by the Maldon Rotary Club, the Maldon Fireworks is a massive event every year which sees thousands of spectators. Along with the fireworks displays, there will also be music and entertainment. Promenade Park, Park Drive, Maldon. www.maldonfireworks.co.uk 3-4 Nov Essex Festive Gift & Food Show Packed with Christmas gifts, presents for all the family and delicious festive food & drink. Brentwood Centre, Doddinghust Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN

8 Nov - 23 Dec German Christmas Market at Battlesbridge This year there’s German beer, Gluhwein and traditional German market stalls, manned by teams in traditional German costumes. Plus fetsive food, gifts and decorations. Battlesbridge, SS11 7RE 10-Nov Essex Christmas Jewellery Fair Browse and purchase from a wide variety of excellent quality jewellery from antique to vintage, beads and pearls, modern, preloved and costume. Great Chesterford Community Centre, Newmarket Road, Great Chesterford, CB10 1NS 01223 894292. ruralmagpie.co.uk 24-Nov Bradfield Christmas Market Craft and food stalls, refreshments, raffle, tombola, plus Father Christmas. 10am-4pm. Bradfield Community Centre, The Street, Bradfield, CO11 2UU 24-25 Nov Christmas Special Event at Audley End Miniature Railway Take the Santa Express train to meet Father Christmas and his Elves at his winter wonderland in the woods. Each child receives a present from Father Christmas! Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JB www.Audley-End-Railway.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 4-Nov Essex Mountnessing Antiques & Collectors Fair A great choice of items ranging from stamps, ephemera, glass, china, jewellery and lots more. Entry £1. Mountnessing Village Hall, Roman Road, CM15 0UG 24-Nov Essex The Curiosity Fair Antiques and Collectables 25 stalls of vintage, antiques, crafts and collectables on market day in this lovely town. 10am - 4pm £1 entry. Saffron Walden Friends meeting house, High street, CB10 1AA 25-Nov Brentwood Centre Antiques & Collectors Fair The fair features indoor and outdoor stalls with dealers from all overthe UK selling a huge variety of affordable items. Entry £4.50. The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, CM15 9NN

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Winter in Woodbridge Discover festive events and Christmas shopping in this delightful Suffolk town

Written by Suzanne Archer

oodbridge is a beautiful place to visit over the festive period. This idyllic market town has great shopping and events in the lead up to Christmas. There is a local tradition of Christmas trees with lights mounted to buildings as well as a large tree on Market Hill, usually switched on during the last week of November. Celebrated with Christmas themed stalls, this is a fun event to attend to get into the festive spirit.

Shopping The best shopping event of the year is the Mammoth Christmas Street Fair, taking place on 2 December. This fair is packed with stalls full of gift ideas from local craftsmen and independent stores.

To keep you going while searching for the perfect present, there are plenty of food stalls and cafes so you can shop until you drop! If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make the Street Fair, Woodbridge still has lots of shopping opportunities. Full of independent retailers, a few of my favourites are Vanilli on the Market Hill with its Swedish style, and The Happiness Store on the Thoroughfare, which is full of great gift ideas and possibly has the best window display on the High Street. The Woodbridge Emporium sells books and tea - the best combination in my opinion, and Silver Sun Jewellery has some beautiful pieces for that special person in your life. There are also several independent coffee shops where you can refuel after a day of busy shopping. Carol Singing If you enjoy a good sing-along there are several carol services. St Johns Church offers a carol service in aid of EACH on 13 December. If you can brave the cold, there is a carol service on the Market Hill on 20 December run by the Rotary Club in aid of Macmillan. If you are going to this service I would suggest wrapping up warm as it can be very cold! Festive fun For something fun with the kids, there is the Christmas Special at Easton Farm Park. Visit the elf workshop, meet Santa as well as the animals and much more. Running from 1 to 24 December, this is one not to miss! Ufford Park, just outside Woodbridge, is hosting a Faulty Towers evening on 6 December with good food and plenty of comedy. This will be a great night out so be sure to book as tickets are selling fast.

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For the crafters among you, the Suffolk Punch Trust is running a wreath making workshop on 4 and 11 December with tea and cake provided. Fiona’s Fabrics in Woodbridge is offering a class to make an appliqued Christmas table runner and mat on 7 December, great for those looking to make something special for the Christmas period. Snape Maltings, located a short drive from Woodbridge, not only has lots of great shopping but Father Christmas will be sailing in on 21 December, and this year from 7-16 December, there will be a performance of ‘The Nutcracker’ for all theatre lovers. The Seckford Theatre is offering lots of seasonal entertainment with ‘Tinsel Town’ by the Theatre Emporium on 8 December and the Company of Four presenting a ‘Christmas Tale’ from 4 to 7 December. With all this going on in the coming months, Woodbridge is well worth a visit this Christmas. Make a weekend of it and book a stay at one of Woodbridge’s most stylish holiday lets. Read our review on page 50. ................................................................................... Suzanne is Woodbridge born and bred. She owns a cafe in Woodbridge called Christine’s named in her mother’s memory where she sells delicious homemade cakes. www.christinescakeshop.com

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Blackthorpe Barn christmas Festival 2018

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www.blackthorpebarn.com/christmas J45 A14. Rougham, 3 miles from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 9HZ

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Enjoy a special Christmas at the Cathedral this year Our November to December, Events & Services leaflet is available in hard copy from the Cathedral and Tourist Information Points in the town. You can also view and book online through our website. New for this year is our special Candlelit Cathedral tour, on Friday 30 November from 7 pm. Explore the Cathedral with our Guides, by candlelight. Warm drink and mince pie included in ticket. Limited spaces, booking now available through our website.

www.stedscathedral.org

BuryST

Edmunds

Christmas Shopping and Festive Events Written by The Suffolk Spy | Instagram @thesuﬀolkspy

hristmas is a favourite time of the year for many people; a wonderful occasion for spending invaluable time with friends and family and, of course, the perfect time to treat those we love the most. As Christmas approaches, Bury St Edmunds has a number of festive events for you to enjoy.

Christmas Fairs Bury St Edmunds’ Christmas Fayre is the largest event to take place in the town every year. This seasonal sparkle runs from 22 – 25 November and is a fantastic place to pick up some wonderful Christmas gifts from over 300 stalls all over Bury St Edmunds. There will be fine arts, jewellery and local craft stalls as well as free children’s activities, street entertainment and live music!

Christmas Lights Switch On To get you in the mood for Christmas, visit the town’s well-known Christmas Lights Switch On event on 15 November. This will be The Snow Queen’s fourth year attending and there will be plenty of fantastic street and stage entertainment for everyone to enjoy from 3pm. The beautiful lights will be switched on at 7pm. On the same day, also pop into Neptune Bury St Edmunds which will be holding its spectacular Christmas Charity Event in conjunction with number of local businesses including Javelin Fashion and Stanley & Maud jewellery.

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Lavenham’s Market Square is transformed into a beautiful Christmas Fair back dropped by stunning medieval timber-framed buildings. This year the Fair takes place during the first weekend of December and there will be craft and food stalls as well as carol singing and plenty of mulled wine. It will certainly fill you with Christmas spirit! Below & right; Blackthorpe Barn

Food and Drink If you’re really looking to impress your guests, make Christmas and New Year entertaining simple by learning from the very best, two Masterchefs of Great Britain at Ice Cook School, Rougham. The chefs offer twists on traditions, give hints and tips on the essentials and help you create the most beautiful canapes for your guests. Ice Cook School has availability on both 6 and 20 November.

Christmas Crafts events or join the cooks in the kitchen and get a head start on some of your own Christmas preparations by making a Christmas pudding to take home.

Christmas Entertainment Take the children along to enjoy Theatre Royal’s classic Christmas Pantomime, Sleeping Beauty. Cheer the goodies, boo the baddies and have a great time singing along and enjoying the show. Sleeping Beauty runs from 30 November to 13 January.

Christmas Crafts Give your party guests an entrance to remember and take part in one of the many Christmas wreath making workshops around Bury St Edmunds. Blackthorpe Barn and The Crafty Foxes have a number of workshops on throughout December. Forage for your own greenery, mix with Christmas embellishments and ribbon and create your own stunning Christmas wreath to give your front door some Christmas cheer. At the weekend Blackthorpe Barn is a haven for Christmas cheer; you can pick up some special Christmas gifts from the British Crafts area, collect your Christmas tree and also take your children in to visit Santa at his magical Grotto! Ickworth House has a number of Christmas events on throughout November and December. Entertain your overly excited children by taking them to one of the

If you are looking for something a bit different, Kentwell Hall is hosting a traditional Dickensian Christmas. Experience a Victorian style Christmas; meet a Victorian family (including upstairs and downstairs) and see how the house is set up for Christmas. Visit the Victorian Tavern and the Music Hall and see Mr Dickens himself narrating ‘A Christmas Carol’, complete with Victorian illusions. Book tickets via the website! For more entertainment, visit The Apex which also has festive entertainment on during December including “The Lock In ‘Christmas Carol’” described by the Telegraph as “guaranteed to raise weary spirits and send an audience home smiling” as well as an adaptation of Charles’ Dickens most well-known story, ‘A Christmas Carol’. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas!

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What’s on: Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 6-10 Nov ‘Allo ‘Allo Based on the hugely successful British television series that ran for seven seasons. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 8-Nov Rebellious Sisterhood - Votes for Women This exciting play takes a rare glimpse behind the scenes at the private lives and the personal cost paid by the leaders of the Suffragettes. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth , IP19 8BY 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 10-Nov Flawless This fantastically high energy, acrobat-fused, family show follows the journey of 10 Big Dreamers, seeking the opportunity to live their ultimate dance fantasy on board the”Intergalactic Dream Ship”. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 11-Nov War - Some Women and Bits of Boys Inspired by letters from a Gunnery Officer to his wife and enriched by poetry and song, this powerful and touching performance celebrates the extraordinary endurance of the human spirit. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211 newcut.org 13-Nov Dr Phil Hammond Nye Bevan’s beautiful baby is 70 this year, but will she make a tonne? A decade of austerity with a Brexit cherry on top has brought her to her knees. Do we just keep doing what we’re doing, or is it time for a radical rethink? Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 14-15 Nov Dad’s Army Radio Hour Two actors play 25 characters in this brilliant staging of classic radio scripts based on favourite episodes from the original TV series. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

15-17 Nov Darknet Welcome to Octopus In., the internet giant that allows users to exchange personal data for currency. But not everyone is prepared to sacrifice their privacy for an easier life. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

22-Nov The Pizza and the Pastor Once more the Rector Eoin Buchanan and Desmond return for an evening of fun and reflection. The nights proceeds will go towards feeding the homeless on Christmas Day. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk

15-Nov Meet Tommy Atkins This brand new play details, through the eyes of a simple ‘Tommy’ the reality of war for those who actually fought it. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk

24-Nov The Magic of Motown Prepare yourself for 40 back-toback classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship in this explosive concert experience. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 28 Nov - 1 Dec Zombie Prom Is prejudice born of society? Will true love really conquer all? Can the recently deceased still graduate high school? Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 30 Nov - 13 Jan 19 Sleeping Beauty A traditional family pantomime in the medieval kingdom of Burytonia for magic, mayhem and more. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 30-Nov That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show 2018 The UK’s most popular Rock ‘n’ Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy! Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 30-Nov Film: Pandora’s Box A great silent classic made in 1929, starring the truly iconic actress Louise Brooks as Lulu. A heartless seducer, she causes havoc amongst her many admirers before meeting the well-deserved fate awaiting her. It’s a tale of lust, greed and violence. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY 0300 3033 211. newcut.org

18-Nov Coppelia Dance – A Magical Christmas This dazzling Christmas production follows an enchanting story of a young girl’s magical journey to save her sister from the icy clutches of the Snow Queen. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 19-21 Nov Beauty & the Beast Will they confess their love for one another before it is too late? Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR, 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 20-Nov The Whitney Houston Show The two-hour production will fill you with joy, nostalgia and wonderment as you are taken on a heartfelt musical journey through Houston’s greatest hits. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street , Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100 22-Nov Christmas Memories with Neil Sands Neil Sands and his wonderful West End cast are back with the 2018 production of their hit show, bringing an unforgettable afternoon of festive nostalgia, taking us all back to a time when Christmas really was the most wonderful time of the year. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH . 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk

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MUSIC 11-Nov MJ HIStory From the Jackson 5 to the King of Pop - Michael Jackson’s greatest hits performed LIVE! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 11-Nov Songs of Remembrance ‘Songs of Remembrance’ is a nostalgic and humorous commemoration to music, singers and comedians that helped win the war. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 14-Nov Arrested Development Arrested Development are true trailblazers within hip-hop music. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 16-Nov Purple Zeppelin A tribute show to two iconic bands, Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk

has quite managed to capture the excitement, passion and sensitivity of Scottish music all at once. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 30-Nov Billy Ocean Billy Ocean is the biggest selling black recording star Britain has ever produced and has sold over 30million records in his lifetime to date. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE 01473 433100 30-Nov The Red Hot Chilli Pipers The past 15 years has seen The Red Hot Chilli Pipers become the most famous bagpipe band on the planet! Bagpipes with attitude, drums with a Scottish accent and a show that carries its own health warning. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 22 Sep - 12 Nov Autumn Exhibition An exciting mixed show featuring some of the gallery’s favourite local artists who have been very busy 17-Nov The Searchers & Hollies painting this summer around Suffolk. Experience The Hunter Gallery, 31 Angel Hill, The best of both worlds performed Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1LS/ 01284 by the FOD Band brings to the stage 752283. www.thehuntergallery.com the magical hits of these two led gendary harmony bands. The Seagull, 1-7 Nov ‘Cape to Snape’ by Brain 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, Coetzee NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 Brian’s evocative mixed media www.theseagull.co.uk paintings use a hand pressed technique, and are inspired by his 17-Nov The Rolling Stones Story walks along the river Alde from ‘The Rolling Stones Story’; a high Snape to Iken. The Quay Gallery, energy concert celebrating the music Next to the River Alde, Snape of the world’s greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Maltings, Snape, IP17 1SP band. Marina Theatre, The Marina, snapemaltings.co.uk Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 8 Nov - 25 Dec Christmas in the Maltings Gallery 23-Nov Megson A curated selection of works from The husband & wife duo bring an local artist and makers – reflecting infectious mix of heavenly vocals, the winter season in paintings, lush harmonies and driving rhythmic ceramics, glass, wood and jewellery – guitars. Haverhill Arts Centre, and all eminently giftable. The Quay High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. Gallery, Next to the River Alde, 01440 714140. Snape Maltings, Snape, IP17 1SP www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk snapemaltings.co.uk 27-Nov Blazin’ Fiddles 15-Nov Girl Power - A History of With the recent release of their ninth Women Artists album, ‘The Key’, no other band Looking at the rise of subjectivity in

the avant-garde – the use of strong, wild colour and expressive line and brushwork in artists such as Gabriele Munter and Marianna Von Werefkin. Also the powerful political graphic work of Kathe Kollwitz. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY 0300 3033 211. newcut.org SPECIAL EVENTS 17-Nov We Are Mademade Christmas Craft Fair This event will offer shoppers a wonderful choice of beautifully designed and handcrafted gifts for Christmas. Makers will be showcasing the latest in contemporary and vintage inspired handmade items. The Old School, Long Melford, CO10 9AA www.wearehandmade.co.uk 24-Nov Making Glass Stars for Christmas On this one day course you will learn to make hanging copper foiled glass stars. You will have time to make three stars, varying in size from 11 19cm. Flatford Mill, East Bergholt, CO7 6UL.. 01206 297110 www.field-studies-council.org 30 Nov - 1 Dec Clare Christmas Fair With over 60 exhibitors selling festive food, drinks and a great selection of gifts this is the Christmas event in Clare and not to be missed! Town Centre, Clare, CO10 8PE. 01787 277100. www.clarechristmasfair.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 18-Nov Newmarket Racecourse Antique and 20th Century Fair Over 200+ inside stands plus outside stands of antiques, art deco and collectables. Free valuations and appraisals. Antique Restoration workshop. Specialist Collectors Room. Newmarket Racecourse (Rowley Mile), The Heath, Newmarket, CB8 0TF 24-25 Nov Long Melford Antiques and Vintage Fair A monthly two-day antiques and vintage fair featuring 50 tables selling: antiques, jewellery, collectables, militaria, vintage clothing and accessories, vinyl records, etc. Free parking. Dog friendly. Entry £1. Open 9.30am - 4pm. The Old School, Hall Street, Long Melford, CO10 9DX

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COMPETITION Godmanchester Nature Reserve by Brian Sibley

Ho, Ho, Ho! It’s almost that time of year again when we get festive and give away amazing prizes to our readers for 12 whole days in the lead up to Christmas. Make sure you like and follow our Facebook page for further announcements!

Languard Fort by Becky Love

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Did you enter our amateur photographer competition? Check out our Facebook & Twitter Pages from the 1 November to see the winning photo!

Join our Facebook events groups and you’ll never be bored again! Be the first to know about the latest autumn, bonfire night and Christmas events across Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire! www.facebook.com/groups/whatsonnorfolk www.facebook.com/groups/whatsonsuﬀolk www.facebook.com/groups/whatsoncambs

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Whether you’re looking for a warming Christmas scented candle for yourself, or a gorgeous gift for a friend, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for at The Home Fragrance Company. If you are buying a present, there’s also a great selection of cards and wrapping paper to ensure that everything you need to achieve the perfect gift is catered for. They will even wrap your purchases for you at no extra cost!

BRING AN OLD CONSERVATORY Back to Life Here Chris Whitehall of ‘Projects 4 Roofing’ speaks about the possibilities of transforming your old conservatory to an all year round living space. Chris Whitehall of Projects 4 Roofing talks about the possibilities for changing a conservatory into an all year round living space. These days a conservatory can become much more than a room to relax in occasionally and enjoy views over the garden. There are new ways to make a conservatory an all year round living space which keeps the benefits of a conservatory whilst making it a usable office area, dining space, playroom or even a cosy evening snug. Traditional conservatories are normally at least 75 per cent glass and so can be

insulation of the room. Conservatory roof conversion: A conservatory roof conversion is the replacement of a glass or uPVC roof with a solid structure. The whole roof is removed and is followed by the construction of a lightweight aluminium frame retaining the original doors, windows, walls and frame. A new high performance insulated roof is installed in a matter of a few days. The finished room has an insulated plastered ceiling, into which can be installed spotlights. It’s also possible to have roof light windows. The exterior roof

“There are new ways to make a conservatory an all year round living space...” very cold at some times of year, whilst being too hot in the summer months. Some people experiment with blinds or special coatings on the windows to try to minimise the temperature changes, and these do help. However, a better option is available which significantly improves the

is covered in lightweight synthetic slates or tiles that come in a wide range of colours and finishes. What are the benefits? The main benefit is thermal efficiency, which means there will no longer be

large fluctuations in temperature in the conservatory. It will be comfortable on hot days and easy to heat in winter. A solid roof also cuts down significantly on sun glare and furniture fading, removing the need for blinds. The new roof also creates new design options: you can create an open plan look by removing the interior conservatory doors. That’s great for making a bigger entertaining or dining space and improving the flow of the house. For more information about a conservatory roof conversion, call 01638 507730 or visit www.projects4roofing.co.uk Questions to ask before buying a conservatory conversion: � Is my conservatory structure sound? � How will I know if the finished roof meets building regulations? (Insist on a pass certificate from the local authority for the whole new room). � What guarantees are offered on the new roof? � How will the new roof be ventilated to prevent condensation?