Iceni Magazine Norfolk Issue 68 by Iceni Magazine

I C E N I N O R F O L K

ISSUE 68

Tim Tests It Mega Car Review

Christmas Gift Ideas For The Whole Family

A Norfolk Christmas

What Better Place To Spend It?

Ho Ho Ho! Santa Fun Runs Returning To Norfolk

A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL

Welcome To Iceni Magazine,

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Can you believe that we are in the final month of 2018 already? How quickly has the year flown by? Speaking of flying, we hope that you're all prepared for Santa and his reindeer to visit.

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In this month's issue, find inspiration for gifts with our gift guides on pages 37 - 45, with perfect present suggestions for everyone. If you're a fan of Masterchef or the ilk, you'll certainly have heard of the sous-vide technique. Gadget Man, Matt Porter, steps out of his comfort zone on pages 34 and 35 testing 'Joule', the ChefSteps sous-vide machine. This would be a fantastic gift for a foodie too! Christmas can be a lonely time, especially if you are without a significant other. Susan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist, offers sage advice on how to avoid feeling unloved and alone on pages 16 and 17. From all of us at team Iceni, we'd like to wish you all a wonderful Christmas however you choose to spend it. Enjoy Issue 68 and we will see you again in 2019!

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CONTRIBUTORS Becca Hamling, Cheryl Cade, Keri Beevis, Mark King, Matt Porter, Paul Kirk, Patrick Arundell, Stuart Webb, Susan Leigh, Thomas Hamling, Tim Barnes-Clay.

Page 3 Image Benjamen Terry - www.definedetail.com

Disclaimer

Copyright ÂŠ Iceni Magazine Limited. All rights reserved. No articles, adverts, content or design in this magazine may be used or reproduced either in whole or part, online or in print. The views and advice from contributors are not necessarily those of Iceni Magazine Limited. Every effort is made to ensure the contents are accurate, however Iceni Magazine Limited can not assume responsibility for errors, omissions or incorrect information. Iceni Magazine Limited accepts no liability for loss, damage or difficulties resulting from contracts between The Client and their customer. Inclusion within the magazine does not imply a recommendation.

Contents 56

pages

Full of absolute dynamic

creative content!

“You Reap What You Sow”

HOW YOUR BUSINESS CAN

A NORFOLK CHRISTMAS

Benefit From Pinterest Boards

What Better Place To Spend The Yuletide Season...

49 37

ALEXANDER O’NEAL Plays Norwich Waterfront

06 09 10 13 16 18 19 20 22

The Benjamin Foundation Monthly Update Ho Ho Ho! Santa Fun Runs Returning To Norfolk King’s Lynn Corn Exchange Spring Preview 2019 A Norfolk Christmas What Better Place To Spend... Feeling Alone & Unloved? There Are Certain Times... Iceni Columnist Mark King Iceni Columnist Keri Beevis How Your Business Can Benefit From... Motoring Review Tim Tests It

30 31 32 34 36 37 38 39 40

Norfolk Mums On A Mission Running December At Nova Silver It's Action Stations Nibbles & Tipples December The Gadget Man The ‘Joule’ Reviewed Christmas - Is Less More? Like Many Parents... Christmas Gift Ideas For The Whole Family Christmas Gift Ideas Gifts By My 1st Years Christmas Gift Ideas Orchard Toys Top Picks Christmas Gift Ideas Baby Toy Wish List

NIBBLES & TIPPLES December

42 44 45 46 47 49 51 53 54

Christmas Gift Ideas Stocking Filler Wish List Christmas Gift Ideas For Him Wish List Christmas Gift Ideas For Her Wish List Just For Fun Guess The Year! What's On... Across Norfolk This Month What's On... Alexander O’Neal Plays... What's On... Pensthorpe Natural Park What's On... Upcoming Events Iceni Horoscopes What Do Your Stars Hold?

THE BENJAMIN FOUNDATION

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Issue 68 2018

The Benjamin Foundation The Benjamin Foundation is a local charity. Since 1994, we have been helping children, young people and families to deal with challenges in their lives. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the prevention of youth homelessness, helping families to build stronger relationships, or providing positive activities to young people who have limited opportunities in life, our work brings hope, opportunity, stability and independence to the people we support.

Tackling Youth Homelessness

We provide a home and support to over 100 vulnerable young adults every night. We give them a stable home and the skills and support they need so they can leave us and forge an independent life. Robert* has been living in one of our supported accommodation centres for around 18 months and has made excellent progress in tackling some of the issues, which he was previously struggling with. He is much more optimistic about the future and, with the festive season approaching, he is looking forward to taking the next step as he reflects on how much his life has changed since last Christmas: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had all the necessary support from The Benjamin Foundation to feel motivated and confident to take on work. Now that I have found employment, I feel liberated,â&#x20AC;? he explains. *name has been changed.

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THE BENJAMIN FOUNDATION

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Issue 68 2018

Tackling Youth Homelessness On Thursday 15th November, a record-breaking 146 people congregated at Norwich City Football Club to make this year’s annual Norwich Sleep Out the biggest yet! Through a combination of participation fees and sponsorship, the event has raised over £30,000 with more funds still expected in the coming weeks. Norwich Sleep Out is part of a national initiative, which sees similar events take place throughout November right across the country. Funds raised at the Norwich Sleep Out will go towards the work The Benjamin Foundation does in this region.

Chris Elliott, Marketing and Fundraising Manager, explained: “The Sleep Out events are a great way to increase awareness of the issue of homelessness, whilst raising much-needed funds which we use to deliver the work we do in tackling youth homelessness in Norfolk and Suffolk.” Chris continues: “Our sincere thanks to all those who took part and have raised so much money to help us continue our work with vulnerable young adults. We are also hugely grateful to all the businesses who provided food and drinks and helped in other ways plus the volunteers who make this event possible.”

25th Anniversary Year

Next year is our 25th anniversary year and we’re hoping to raise even more money to support local people. There will be lots of events and activities taking place throughout the year which you can be involved with. If you would like to support us in 2019, please contact us on 01603 615670 or email: events@benjaminfoundation.co.uk Learn more about The Benjamin Foundation at https://benjaminfoundation.co.uk/ Twitter: @icenimagazine

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ICENI - NEWS

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Issue 68 2018

Ho Ho Ho! Santa Fun Runs Returning To Norfolk

Norwich and Poringland are to be transformed into a sea of red jackets and white beards once again when East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) hosts its popular Santa runs. The Norwich run will be over two kilometres (1.2 miles) at Eaton Park on Sunday, 9 December, whilst the Poringland one will be over five kilometres (3.1 miles), starting and finishing at Framingham Earl High School, on Sunday, 16 December. Both will get under way at 11am. Emma Benstead, EACH Norfolk Fundraising Assistant, said: “We’re delighted, as always, to be helping people get in the Christmas spirit. Please come along and join in the fun! “Money raised at the Santa run in Norwich will help us continue caring for the 129 children and young people with life-threatening conditions in Norfolk, who are currently offered our service, as well as the 160 family members.

“Money raised at the Santa run in Poringland will go towards the Nook appeal, the aim of which is to raise £10 million for the construction of our new Norfolk hospice.” For both events, tickets are £15 for anyone aged over 13, £8 for children, £40 for a family of four, or groups of six or more can enter for £14 per person. There are also exclusive discounts and benefits for corporates. Those aged over 13 will get a Santa suit whilst children will get a Santa or elf hat. Medals will be given to everyone and children will also receive a festive goody bag. For more information on the Norwich run, being sponsored by insurance specialist A-Plan, and on the Poringland run, being sponsored by estate agent Winkworth, and to sign up go to www.each.org.uk. For more on fundraising and volunteering for EACH in Norfolk, contact Emma on 01953 666770 or at: emma.benstead@each.org.uk. PAGE

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SPRING PREVIEW 2019

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Issue 68 2018

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange Spring Preview 2019 2019 is just around the corner and here at the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, we have some fabulous shows coming from comedy, family-friendly shows, dance, live music, new shows, and much more. Introducing some new shows to the Corn Exchange, including Respect to Aretha (FRI 18 JAN), Chicago Blues Brothers (THU 24 JAN) 80’s Mania (SUN 3 FEB), the hilarious Nish Kumar (WED 13 FEB), Forever in Blue Jeans superb singers, dancers and musicians playing the best in Country Music and Roll ‘n’ Roll (SAT 16 FEB), Pop Diva’s Live! The perfect pop concert for the little diva’s in your life (FRI 22 FEB), Get On The Floor! Strictly Star AJ Pritchard brings a fabulous fusion of worldwide dancefloor flavours (THU 7 MAR). The Take That Experience come to the Corn Exchange for their debut appearance (FRI 8 MAR), as well as Lee Mead’s 10 Year Anniversary Tour (SUN 10 MAR), Collabro (MON 11 MAR), Beach Boys Smile (SAT 16 MAR), Brian Blessed (SUN 24 MAR), Britain’s Got Talents Finalist - Robert White (THU 28

MAR), The Sun Records Concert Show, from the label which bought you Elvis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and many more! (SAT 13 APR), Kevin Clifton in Burn The Floor (TUE 23 APR), I Talk Too Much - Francis Rossi (MON 20 MAY), The Summer Of Love journey back to the legendary summer of 1967, (WED 22 MAY) and the fantastic science show for the family Brainiac Live! (TUE 28 MAY). Returning by popular demand is Spirit of the Dance with their 20th Anniversary Tour (WED 30 JAN), Steve Steinman’s Vampires Rock featuring Sam Bailey (FRI 8 FEB), we have tales from the wilderness with Ben Fogle (WED 27 FEB). Join four-time Brit Classical Award Winner Russell Watson (SAT 23 MAR), celebrating Hollywood’s dances will be Ajaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara in Remembering The Movies (TUE 26 MAR), Sing-a-Long-a are back for you to be the Star of the show with The Greatest Showman (SUN 14 APR). Live music this season includes The Classic Rock Show (THU 14 FEB),

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SPRING PREVIEW 2019

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Issue 68 2018

Impro Chums (SUN 26 MAY). More comedy comes from the controversial Jim Davidson with The People Fight Back (WED 16 JAN) and if you fancy a ladies night of being a fabulous 21st century woman then come along to The Hormonal Housewives (SUN 7 APR), to another funny and warm comedienne An Evening with Pam Ayres (FRI 10 MAY). If you want to see future stars of comedy, the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange Comedy Clubs (THU 10 JAN, THU 7 FEB, THU 14 MAR, WED 3 APR & THU 23 MAY) showcase four rising stars from the touring circuit in a relaxed cabaret setting. The ELO Experience (FRI 15 FEB) The Searchers Farewell UK Tour (SAT 23 FEB), Let’s Hang On the longest running tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons (THU 28 FEB), and Arrival - The Hits of Abba (SAT 2 MAR). Also returning The Greatest Hits of Motown (SAT 9 MAR), The Elvis Years (FRI 22 MAR) Killer Queen recreate the high energy, powerful phenomenon that was Freddie Mercury - (FRI 29 MAR) and Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 50th Anniversary Tour (FRI 12 APR). Bringing Back The Sixties return with a trip down memory lane (THU 25 APR) The Illegal Eagles (FRI 26 APR), Wannabe come to swing it, shake it, move it and make it as the world’s biggest girl band The Spice Girls (SUN 28 APR), Walk Right Back- The Everly Brothers Story (WED 1 MAY) and to finish the live music section for the Spring brochure are The Drifters (FRI 24 MAY).

Other shows for this season include Neil Sands - Semimental Journey through the 40’s, 50’s and swinging 60’s (WED 27 MAR), Peter Pan - Easter Panto with comedy legend Bobby Davro as Smee! (THU 11 APR), and from the producers that bring you the Corn Exchange Christmas pantomimes, Jordan Productions in association with Wicked Productions present a brand new hilarious family production of The Jungle Book (THU 30 & FRI 31 MAY). For the full programme of what’s in store at the Corn Exchange, pick up a copy of our new brochure or visit: www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk Tickets for all shows are available from Box Office on 01553 764864 or book online: www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

Other music shows include the ever popular That’ll Be The Day (SAT 30 MAR), Seven Drunken Nights - with The Story of the Dubliners (WED 10 APR), with musical show medleys - Masters Of The House (SAT 11 MAY), We have a packed stand-up comedy season including Russell Kane with The Fast and The Curious (THU 21 FEB), Julian Clary - Born to Mince (FRI 15 MAR), Stewart Francis - Into The Punset (WED 24 APR) and Paul Merton’s PAGE

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A NORFOLK CHRISTMAS

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Issue 68 2018

Credit: Jill Watkinson

A Norfolk Christmas Article By Stuart Webb

With the fine city of Norwich now awash with Christmas lights and a solid rotation of festive adverts starting to build momentum, it is very much starting to look a lot like that time of year again. After a turbulent eleven months that even included a summer, Christmas gives us all a chance to sign-off the year with friends and family and plenty of festive fun. What better place to spend the Yuletide season than Nelson’s own fair county? However you wish to spend it, in this beautiful part of the world, you can. Here are just a few ideas about how to make the most of your very own Norfolk Christmas. THE BIRD Norfolk has a long-running and successful heritage of breeding turkeys and these freerange beauties are two of the most desirable to have as the centre piece of your festive feast.

Norfolk Black The famous Norfolk Black is one of the best known of all turkey breeds. Renowned for its highly flavoursome taste and prominent breast bone, this bird is easily recognised by its black legs. A classic choice for Christmas dinner and held to be the eldest breed in the UK, its heritage is as rich as its taste. First brought to England in the 1500’s by Spanish explorers this prized breed developed from the Aztec turkeys of Mexico. Traditionally considered to be a premiere breed in Norfolk where discarded grain from deep harvests provided an excellent food source, the Norfolk Black has always been popular. In the 17th Century flocks of the birds were driven all the way to London for market with their feet clothed and tarred for protection. Furthermore, Norfolk Blacks were sent back across the Atlantic and it is likely that the very first

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A NORFOLK CHRISTMAS

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Issue 68 2018

Thursford Christmas Spectacular

Credit: Jill Watkinson

Thanksgiving meal may have been from European birds; possibly even from stock bred in Norfolk! Norfolk Bronze With a sweeter, less gamey taste than the Black, the Bronze is ideal for the table come the big day. A larger breed with plenty of white and brown meat to offer, it is an excellent choice for a traditional Christmas dinner. A quality bird which isn’t quite as dear as the Black, the Norfolk Bronze is a fantastic option for a delicious and satisfying meal for every size of family. THE BUILD UP Norwich Cathedral The magnificent Norwich Cathedral was completed in 1145 and is home to the second largest cloisters in England. A truly aweinspiring building with a large and active community. There is a rich programme of events running throughout December which cater to all tastes. For the full schedule check out the website but a few highlights include; Christingle, (08/12/18) - A traditional service and in support of The Children’s Society. Full of candles and oranges and Christmas warmth. 15:30-16:30 Messiah by Candlelight, (22/12/18) The spine-tingling annual performance of Handel’s celebrated or oratorio. This is a ticket only event but well worth it.

Established by local man, George Thomas Henry Cushing in the 1970s, the Thursford Collection is home to the world’s largest collection of steam engines and organs. The Christmas Spectacular is a truly unique experience. Boasting a cast of 130 singers, dancers and musicians, the three-hour long shows are a treat for all ages. Running until the 23rd of December and highly popular, The Thursford Christmas Spectacular will blow you away. Cromer Pier Christmas Show Back for its 14th run and now established as a mainstay in the Norfolk festive calendar and a definite family favourite. Held annually on the famous Cromer pier, this Christmas extravaganza is a guaranteed joy for the. Featuring Norfolk’s very own Olly Day and a whole host of singers, dancers, magicians and comics, this treat runs until the 30th of December. Pantomimes For many of us, Christmas just isn’t the same without a trip to the panto. It seems to be a perfect distillation of the season; the kids joining in with fizzy enthusiasm and the elder generations with perhaps something more akin to stoicism. But regardless of age, we all enjoy a good dame, oh yes, we do! There are many to choose from around Norfolk at this time of year, included here are a few from various areas. Aladdin at Norwich Theatre Royal December 12th to January 13th Snow White at Hunstanton Princess Theatre - December 1st to January 1st Sleeping Beauty at Kings Lynn Corn Exchange - December 7th to December 31st Beauty & the Beast at Sheringham Little Theatre - December 8th to January 1st

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A NORFOLK CHRISTMAS

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THE QUEEN Of course, it is well known that the Queen herself loves a Norfolk Christmas and traditionally spends the period with her family at the beautiful country retreat of Sandringham House. Built between 1870 and 1892 and drawing its inspiration from the not too far away Blickling Hall, Sandringham is a stunning example of Jacobethan architecture. Although not open to the public when the Queen is in residence, those full of festive cheer and of a monarchist persuasion can catch a glimpse of the Royal Family as Prince Phillip leads them to their traditional Christmas day morning service at the nearby Church of Saint Mary Magdalene. THE STROLL After too much turkey and too many trimmings, a walk can be just what is needed to gain a second wind. Those familiar with this beautiful county will know what a wide range of opportunities there are to enjoy nature in all its various glories. A stroll along the beach may seem to be more of a warm weather pursuit, but along the perforations of the North Sea coast the beauty is all year round. Visitors new to the area can pretty much find whatever type of walk they want. From pub-to-pub sections of coastal

Issue 68 2018

path to ancient woodland rambles, it really is a case of whatever you fancy. Some old favourites include: Blakeney National Nature Reserve Where dramatic sea views meet painterly skies. Blakeney is an area of outstanding natural beauty and is home to some of Norfolk’s most picturesque views. The Blickling Estate - A walk through the great wood and surrounding parkland is a great choice should the North Sea breeze prove a little too bracing. With wonderful views of the grand and stately Blickling Hall it is a treat for everybody’s inner aristocrat. Sheringham Park - The perfect place to try out those new Christmas bicycles! With an array of pathed and signposted routes of varying lengths and difficulties, you will be able to find the perfect one for you. BOXING DAY A part of what makes Christmas such a special time is the rich tapestry of traditions that are gathered up and draped across the whole month. A Boxing Day swim may not appeal to everyone, but all around the edges of the country people will be diving in for charity. Here in Norfolk, the Cromer Boxing Day Dip has become quite the local tradition. Taking place on the promenade next to the pier at 10:00 and organised by the North Norfolk Beach Runners, this year’s dip is raising funds for the Stroke Association. If you don’t fancy taking part, or you ‘accidentally’ forget your costume, it is still an event well worth watching and a cause worth supporting. These are just a few of the great things going on around this beautiful and varied county over the festive period. I hope that whether you are lucky enough to live here permanently, or visiting on a special holiday, that you can find something truly special to fuel your cheer and to help you enjoy your very own Norfolk Christmas. ■ PAGE

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FEELING ALONE...

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Feeling Alone & Unloved? There are certain times of the year when being alone, perhaps without your children, can feel especially raw. Christmas, Mother's or Father's Day, long Bank Holiday weekends, holidays and key social events can be a real struggle if we are by ourselves, separated from our children, watching everyone else enjoying couples or family time. Tips for when you're feeling alone and unloved: • Remind yourself that it's just one day. If you miss out on a Christmas or Mother's/ Father's Day, it can be all too easy to run with the emotion and get caught up in a cycle of gloom and despondency. Try to detach from the feelings and make sure the next time you see them you have a lovely time together. Focus on making your together times special. • Revise your perspective. Yes, by all means, acknowledge that some of your alone time can be a great opportunity to get chores done and catch up on jobs, but also determine to dedicate some time for yourself to enjoy

a few treats. Have a leisurely bath, light those lovely scented candles you've been saving for a special occasion, read a book, watch a film, listen to some good music, prepare your favourite food. Relish having the place to yourself. Relax, de-stress and use it as a chance to treat yourself well. • Avoid guilt-tripping your children or regaling them with details of your situation. Children are not stupid; they're good at sensing how you're feeling and will usually be far more aware of what's going on than you credit. Yes, they may well allow one parent to bribe them with holidays and expensive gifts - why wouldn't they? But they'll also appreciate your daily efforts to feed and care for them, the things you suspect go largely unnoticed. • Maintain an involvement in other areas of life. Keep your identity and establish some interests away from the home. Keep up to date with the news, popular TV, what's happening in your locale, so you're confident enough to participate in conversations, build new social connections and attract new friends.

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FEELING ALONE...

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• Would you be interested in accepting an offer from friends or colleagues to meet someone they know? Might it be time to meet someone new and do something different? Mixing and talking to new people, particularly potential dates, is a great way to improve your confidence and self-esteem, motivate you to dress up, look after yourself and remind yourself that you're more than 'just' an ex or a parent! Plus, conversing with new people is an important skill, quickly lost if we're out of practice and haven't socialised independently in a while. • Are you ready to consider dipping a tentative toe into the official dating scene again? Online dating sites are an increasingly popular way to meet new people and offer great practical advice. For example, be careful how much personal information you disclose, limit a first meeting to an hour and in a public place, and trust your gut instincts if you start to feel uneasy. But they're an efficient way of getting out there again. • Manage your expectations and don't invest everything in a new friendship/relationship from the outset. Enjoy meeting someone new, practising your conversational skills, maybe flirting a little and making a new friend even if it doesn't result in them becoming a lover. • Make invitations. Take charge of the parts of your life you have some control over, like your social life. Be proactive and join mailing lists. Source free exhibitions, two for the

Issue 68 2018

price of one offers and early doors specials on meals. Become the go-to guy for fun and also accept when others reciprocate and invite you along. Keep in touch with what's happening around you. • Provide reasonable options. Your friends and inner circle may wish to socialise, but may need to be careful about their expenditure. A pamper evening, supper party where everyone contributes a dish and/or bottle, or a games evening might be fun. Several people start games evenings over the winter months and find they became a regular part of their calendar. Or sporting options can be a great way to socialise and exercise at the same time. • Also, make time for some of the things that interest you, if you are able. Volunteer, join a class, walking group or activity you enjoy. Maybe alternate child care with other parents and dedicate some free time to mixing and meeting people with similar interests to yourself. Enjoy sharing conversations, becoming friends and, who knows, maybe meeting someone new too. Remind yourself that each situation has pros and cons. Being single isn't the end of the world! Alone doesn't have to mean lonely. In fact, many people in unhappy relationships will envy you your freedom and the fact that you're now starting out afresh. Have a great Christmas and New Year!

Article By Susan Leigh Susan Leigh, Altrincham Counsellor and Hypnotherapist, has published her third book, 101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday (ISBN 9781910275160) based on her social media series. A glossy, pocket-sized book, it's full of inspirational quotes & pictures, a treat to give or simply keep for yourself. For more information visit: www.lifestyletherapy.net PAGE

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ICENI - COLUMNISTS

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The Diary of a Norfolk Family By Mark King I have written both my award-winning, bestselling books FRENZY a Daniel Jones Story, and its sequel Daniel Jones DOOM, since moving into my present home. Although it was built only twenty-five years ago, several of the wooden windows have, over these years, warped to the point that during the windier days of winter you do get half a draft sometimes. Although I have used various different places to write these manuscripts, like the Forum, I still write a lot while at home. Over the years, I kept threatening to get these windows replaced, but for one reason or another I never got around to it. Above: Mark King

Then after the most glorious of summers this year, it was reported from various media outlets that we could be expecting the devil of all cold winters. The thought of sitting at my desk writing Daniel Jones Revenge, the third book in the series, while freezing did not appeal to me, and I finally acted. And what an experience that was!

I decided to call in half-a-dozen companies to get quotes and work each against one another. I started with two well-known national companies, one of which was locally based and what a shock I got with this local quote. Well, it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a quote; it was a blatant fraud. We couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get rid of their rep even after five hours, and after I stated they were at least 700% more expensive then I was prepared to pay for, and even after they used every hard sales tactic in the book to claim they could reduce the price, but only if we signed up there and then, it was still 400% more then I was prepared to pay. In the end, we went for a local sole trader called Ray who runs a company called Razor Windows. He gave us the price that was spot on, his workmanship was top quality and he worked hard always with a smile, and an integrity, that once again restored my faith in the great British tradesman. So, this Christmas, I will enjoy a draft-free home and I wish you and your family a happy, and draft-free, Christmas and New Year. www.always-hanging-around.blogspot.com Follow on twitter: @author_king

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ICENI - COLUMNISTS

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I’m Not Sure How It’s Been For The Rest Of You This Year...

I’m not sure how it’s been for the rest of you this year, but for me I felt I time travelled from August straight into November. One moment, I was celebrating my birthday and still wearing maxi dresses and sandals, then suddenly, I was plunged into dark evenings and getting a face full of tinsel every time Above: Keri Beevis I visited the supermarket. Of course, winter brings with it bugs and I succumbed a couple of weeks ago to one of those nasty colds that’s been doing the rounds. Here are a few things I learnt while I was in my sick bed. 1/ From now on I intend to keep a special ‘sick box’ supply, as I was stuck at home with a dwindling amount of painkillers and tissues, running low on coffee, and completely out of bread, soup and other cold essentials. With Mama Beev unable to drive following her road trip (and by road trip I don’t mean a nice jaunt around the countryside, I’m referring to when she literally tripped and face planted the road) I had to do without. Luckily, I had wine because my paranoia about getting trapped in the house during a snowstorm/nuclear war/zombie apocalypse and not being able to drink means I am fully stocked at all times, so it’s okay, I did my five a day.

2/ Ellie does not accept tardiness when you are sick. She has a schedule and everyone is expected to stick to it. Lola on the other hand is the world’s best nursemaid - well, if nursemaids just want to snuggle and purr and sit on you all day. Rather disturbingly though, she is becoming a snorer in her senior years and I am reminded of staying at my nan’s house as a child and listening to the walls vibrate like a family of overexcited hogs were partying next door. 3/ The end of an illness bout requires clean bed linen, regardless of how recently you changed it. I put fresh sheets on the bed the day before I became ill, but after three days of coughing, spluttering and generally rolling around in Beev filth, clean sheets were a necessity. 4/ With all the sneezing fits I had, I really need to work on my clenching. 5/ The saying is ‘feed a cold, starve a fever’, well, diets really need to account for this and I feared I may have a Winnie the Pooh moment when I went back to work. Remember when he tried to leave the house after eating all the honey? It nearly happened to me. Honest. I am now fully recovered and looking forward to celebrating the festive season. Whatever you are all up to, I wish you happiness and good health, and hope you all have a very merry Christmas and New Year. PAGE

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SOCIAL MEDIA

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Issue 68 2018

How Your Business Can Benefit From Pinterest Boards

Pinterest Boards are the digital equivalent of a pin-board or scrapbook. Visitors to Pinterest usually visit to get information, ideas or inspiration from other members or brands. Boards can be public or private, but for the purposes of this article I’m focusing on public boards. As a business, Pinterest is about building brand & product awareness, market authority, insight and ultimately sales. You need your products to be found by your audience so that means creating boards, pins and keywords specifically targeted towards them meaning that when they search for inspiration you appear in their feed.

inspirational boards and content that your followers find interesting it’s less likely that they’ll need to go elsewhere, and you become their authority on everything related to your market! Agent Shave, an online traditional wet shaving supplies company based in Norfolk, is a good example of mixing product, insights and inspirational boards. They’ve got specific product content boards like ’Shaving Soap’, informational boards like ’Shaving Help & Advice’ and ‘Undercover Shaving Reports’ and then more general inspirational boards like ’Soldier’s Shaving’ and ‘Funny Shaving’.

Your boards could be a mixture of products, how to’s, or general curated inspirational / informative content (from other Pinners) that your followers might find interesting. The idea is that if you have a good balance of product/ PAGE

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SOCIAL MEDIA Issue 68 2018

To reinforce the difference between your product-based boards and general curated boards, you might consider starting the board with your name. An example of someone who does this is Next, who start all their boards with ‘Next |…’. Just remember some board titles will be initially truncated when viewing your profile, so ensure your Pins also convey a visual idea of what the board is about if your title does get truncated. This option obviously works if you’ve a short brand name or can abbreviate it. Alternatively, consider prefixing the general curated content boards with something appropriate instead.

To optimise your board for SEO, add keywords to your board description and pick a category to help the Pinterest better understand your board content and importance to your intended audience. When your board is viewed, it displays your pins in vertical columns, so consider creating some vertically longer pins as these have more visual impact in a feed. These are perfect for step-bystep's, how-to’s or even a product launch! Finally, don’t forget if you’re creating boards to promote your own products or service, consider having a consistent image style to all your photos as this can help create brand cohesion and recall with your followers. I hope these ideas on how to create or tweak Pinterest boards for your business have been helpful. If you need help managing your Pinterest Boards please get in touch with me at https://paulkirkdesign.co.uk or at @PKirk_designer PAGE

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MOTORING REVIEW

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Issue 68 2018

Mega w Revie

Tim Tests It

Two thousand eighteen was a packed year for car launches and our motoring editor, Tim Barnes-Clay, will be kept just as busy in 2019. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and see what he’s been driving since the last issue. better, there’s 1700-litres of space when you fold the rear bench, and a powered tailgate is fitted as standard. As well as a large boot, the athletically-styled XF estate has enough room to carry four people in limousine-like luxury. Soft-touch materials and leather are everywhere inside, along with in-car WiFi, ambient lighting and touchscreen infotainment.

Jaguar XF Sportbrake Jaguar’s XF Sportbrake is a big and beautiful estate, with bags of practicality and a pleasant drive. The car is an executive blend of refinement and room. At 565-litres, the boot size is respectable, and the flat floor makes loading easy. Even

The XF Sportbrake is a delight to drive, with sharp steering that allows you to test the limits of the car with confidence. What’s more, with a towing capacity of 2000kg, the Jaguar will lug a caravan effortlessly. Most buyers will select a diesel, and I was handed the keys to the all-wheel-drive 2.0d 240ps R-Sport Auto Sportbrake. The £42,435 car returns up to 48.7mpg and will do 0-62mph in 6.7s. Top speed is 150mph. It’s also very

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Issue 68 2018

grippy, so will make light work of driving on wintry roads. The Sportbrake feels almost identical to the XF saloon in most ways. It is composed on all surfaces and at all speeds. Furthermore, it’s relatively efficient and very comfortable. Okay, the car’s sat-nav may not be quite as on-theball as some German executive estates, but the Jaguar is a good all-round package. Indeed, it’s an excellent alternative to the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

Skoda Octavia vRS 245 Hatch The spacious, reliable, Skoda Octavia has always been the most unrelentingly sensible of family cars. But add a ‘vRS' badge to the rear, and it undergoes a metamorphosis. The standard Octavia isn’t unappealing, but it’s bland enough to merge into the background. The extended bumpers, black trim and boot spoiler on the vRS hike it just far enough beyond anonymity to let you know it’s something a bit sexy. It’s gritty without being boy-racer ‘chav’.

produces 245ps. This car, equipped with a seven-speed DSG transmission, achieves 0-62mph in 6.6s and has a top speed of 155mph. So, as any good hot-hatch should be, the Octavia vRS is talented at covering tarmac quickly. Add in solid stability, and its calm manner gives you confidence. What’s more, rear seat space betters many motors from the class above, and the hatchback has a truly mammoth 590-litre boot. It will also do 44.1mpg, though if that’s not decent enough for you, you could always get the diesel. And if you need an even bigger boot, get the estate. The vRS comes with Bluetooth, DAB radio, dual-zone air-con and rear parking sensors as standard. There are plenty of good family cars that are rapid and fulfilling to drive. If you want those merits in a car that costs £29,490, then the Skoda Octavia vRS unifies them better than any other motor.

The cabin is largely benchmark Skoda fare, so it's hardly electrifying in there. But everything falls readily to hand, and it's well made. It is made livelier, though, by some tremendously supportive sports seats. The 2.0 TSi turboengined Octavia vRS, under review here,

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efficiency, as well as practicality, are what the estate is all about. With only a 1.7 oil-burner under the hood, it's not a performance vehicle, but 0-62 mph in 11.0s is not outrageous, and the car cruises happily, returning up to 56.5mpg on the combined cycle. In the countryside, the suspension soaks up our pothole-ridden British ‘B' roads, and the i40 has decent body control with light and precise steering.

Hyundai i40 Tourer This stylish and sporty motor is an uncompromised addition to the medium family estate car market. It offers low running costs as well as an intuitive and contemporary interior package.

The car is exceptionally airy in the front and the rear, and there’s enough head and leg-room for even the tallest of passengers. Additionally, the 553-litre load area (1719-litres with the rear seats down) is low, wide and long - and gobbles up pretty much anything you throw in there.

Sitting behind the wheel of the leather-clad i40 Tourer Premium 1.7 CRDi 141ps DCT, on test here, is a pleasant place to be. Refinement and

Indeed, at £29,630 this i40 Tourer is good value for money and is an estate car worth considering for business or family motoring.

with just a load of hard plastics raining on the parade. You get a lot of kit and loads of room. The £34,995 2.2 ELX Ssangyong Rexton I tested came with seven seats. That means, there’s space for five adults – then two kids will fit in the third row of seats. The boot is vast, too, at 820-litres or 1977-litres with the rear seats down.

SsangYong Rexton This is an SUV that does everything you need. It goes off-road, and it'll tow up to 3500kg. This means it’s as good as a Land Rover Discovery. Its high-tech four-wheel-drive system will drag you out the muddiest of places, and the hilldescent control makes it stress-free to crawl down rugged slopes. The Rexton doesn’t feel overwhelmingly large to drive off or on the road, though - and despite it being not as plush inside as the Disco, it’s good enough. The cabin is swathed in leather,

The Rexton’s steering is light, meaning the car is undemanding to manoeuvre in town, and the lofty driving position gives you an excellent view forward. Parking is also easy, thanks to a reversing camera. The consequence of the Rexton’s robust ability is that it’s weighty and the only engine available (a 181ps 2.2-litre oil-burner) has a fuel efficiency figure of 34.9mpg. It’s also not a fast car, with 0-60mph taking 11.9s. Top speed is 115mph. However, if you’re after an easy-to-drive SUV that’ll lug a horsebox or caravan over a boggy field and transport your family everywhere, then you could do a lot worse.

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couple of adults and the boot is larger than in the withdrawing Fiesta. At 292-litres it’ll just about take a week’s worth of supermarket shopping. The £21,995 ST-3 gets athletic 18inch alloys with red brake callipers and comes stacked with kit including, a heated steering wheel and heated leather Recaro seats. There’s also loads of tech to make the Fiesta a joy to live with, including automatic air conditioning, rear parking sensors and keyless entry.

New Fiesta ST Ford's Fiesta ST is a gutsy hot hatch with a 200ps lump under the bonnet. It also wears an assertive body kit and has a snazzy interior with a flat-bottomed steering wheel. The seats are supportive, the view out is excellent, and the eight-inch touchscreen is easy to use. The ST-3 three-door model, on test here, has enough room in the rear for a

The car shoots from zero to 62mph in just 6.5s and has a top speed of 144mph. What’s more, selectable driving modes allow you to pick sportier or relaxing settings for the accelerator, steering and exhaust. The new Ford Fiesta ST is a brilliant little motor that represents great value performance for weekend fun. Only its sensitive steering and jarring suspension might put you off using it as your daily car. chassis and advanced technology help optimise driving dynamics to deliver the kind of sporty event you’d expect to have behind the wheel of a Mustang.

New Ford Mustang GT Another Ford that offers good value is the latest Mustang. It wouldn’t be complete without a roaring V8, so you’ll be pleased to hear Ford offers a colossal 5.0-litre one with 450ps. Together with its active sports exhaust, there are few lovelier tunes in the automotive world, and in convertible 10-speed auto guise, as reviewed here, it’ll race from 0-62mph in 4.5s. Top speed is 155mph. Expect it to use lots of petrol though, as although 22.49mpg is possible, that’ll quickly turn to less than that when you’re in a rush. The Ford isn’t just rapid in a straight line; the ride and handling are a revelation. A decent

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What's more, you can enhance the Mustang's performance to suit your frame of mind using selectable drive modes. And, away from the public highway, you can use Track Apps to keep an eye on driving performance. These can be operated via the steering wheel and seen in the instrument panel. The view you get over the long bonnet is very much retro-Mustang; and, from the roomy front seats, you get a good view of the road. Alas, if you're expecting decent rear-seat space, you'll be frustrated: adults will find it cramped, and even kids will feel constrained. On the plus side, while the boot's elevated lip makes it difficult to load, the £47,645 convertible has a 332-litre storage capacity, so you’ll get a suitcase plus other bits and pieces in there no worries. I’ve already starting to save up. I need one - and it has to be the 5.0 litre V8.

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MOTORING REVIEW

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flawlessly. It is also a down-to-earth motor, with 660 litres of load capacity in the boot, swelling to 1,775 litres with the rear seats folded. On the move, the 308 SW is like a pig in clover sitting at motorway speeds hour after hour. It is just as efficient on twisty country roads, due to wholesome suspension.

Peugeot 308 SW Peugeot’s stylish 308 SW is comfy and spacious; standard kit is excellent, too, especially on the £25,214 Tech Edition, as driven here. It includes a colour reversing camera, dual-zone air-con, and a ‘Driver Assistance Pack’ with adaptive cruise control.

The car’s 0-62mph run is achieved in 10.2s, so it’s not mega-quick - but it has enough grunt to ensure you can join fast flowing motorway traffic from slip roads easily. What's more, there is ample grip and the car corners ably, with minimal body roll. There is a good amount of feedback submitted through the steering wheel as well.

The French-made estate compares with models such as the Skoda Octavia and the Ford Focus. Housed under the bonnet is a 1.2 turbo petrol engine, hitched up to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which changes up and down the cogs

The Peugeot is also resourceful, especially when you consider it offers a combined fuel economy of over 52.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 124g/km. This makes it an efficient estate car and, taking into account its comfort levels, it's a pleasurable motor to drive - or sit in - when you're stuck in rush hour traffic.

Peugeot 3008 SUV

There’s a hearty medley of engines on offer, and I drove the 1.5 Blue HDi diesel in Allure spec with 131ps, fitted with a manual gearbox. Behind the wheel of the £27,200 car, things feel dynamic, and the weighting of the steering is spot on. It grips bitumen like a cat's claws cling to flesh, and mid-range pulling power is good, so you can pick up the pace easily. The six-speed transmission is slick shifting, and the car delivers a hushed ride. Tyre roar and wind whistle are kept out of the cabin, too. All this adds to the 3008's sense of refinement.

Sometimes it can be challenging to separate SUVs out on the road because most of them drive alike. Many are set up for comfort, and that's what the all-new 3008 is tuned for. The small steering wheel and light handling gives a feeling of sprightliness, even if that's not the case, as it's a tall, heavy car. However, that's not a complaint; the designers and engineers have done a good job covering the traditional flaws of an SUV's dynamics.

The Peugeot offers a composed ride with seats that provide the sort of comfort and support required for long distance motoring. Furthermore, the car’s suspension sops up potholes without complaining. Significantly, the all-new 3008 doesn’t tip into bends. Indeed, body roll is very well contained. This surprised me, as smaller SUVs aren’t always the type of vehicle to stay so unflustered on twisty tarmac.

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Factory fitted safety kit includes automatic emergency braking and rear parking sensors, and it has a top five-star Euro NCAP safety score. A car can look great and have all the equipment in the world crammed into it – but it’s no good if it isn’t economical and it doesn’t drive decently.

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There are no concerns to be had in this area with the 3008 SUV. The 1.5 Blue HDi 130’s average fuel consumption of 67.3mpg and 109g/km of CO2 means low running costs, combined with effective performance. 0-62mph is achieved in 10.8s and the Pug's maximum speed is 119mph. its capacity and therefore using less fuel. All these modifications have been ushered in to make sure the Outlander does well on the more realistic, WLTP fuel economy and emissions test, which is intended to reflect real-world motoring properly.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Mitsubishi’s Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is a no-nonsense family motor that doesn’t cost a bomb and possesses a valuable electric-only resource. Being able to charge it up from your home wall-outlet means trips to the petrol station should be few and far between, as long as your excursions are short ones. The main alterations for the 2019 Outlander PHEV incorporate its 300V Lithium-ion battery capacity being boosted by 15 per cent to 13.8kWh, the electric generator output being enlarged by 10 per cent, the battery output being enhanced by 10 per cent, the rear electric motor output being heightened by 10 per cent to 95ps and a bigger 2.4-litre Atkinson cycle petrol lump (compared with the former 2.0-litre engine), which remains hooked up to an automatic gearbox.

As well as being more resourceful, the greater capacity petrol unit means more power. This means better performance; with the 0-62mph time now 10.5s rather than 11.0s. The top speed is 106mph. Because the £39,500 PHEV 4h 2.4 Auto, on test here, has an electric motor for every axle, it can give 4×4 capability all the time - even in pure EV mode. The ‘Super-All Wheel Control’ (S-AWC) technology also has sport and snow drive settings. What’s more, the suspension has been adjusted to enhance low-speed ride, and the steering has been tweaked to offer better feel and response. On the outside, the general body shape is unchanged, but new, more sparkly, 18inch alloys freshen the car up. The cabin offers the same amount of room, meaning that there’s lots of space for you and your passengers, as well as a considerable 463-litre boot, and a 35-litre compartment under the boot for the electric charging cable.

The petrol unit also manages to be more economical than before because it can change from the Otto to the Atkinson cycle - shrinking

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MOTORING REVIEW

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tough terrain with gusto - going where many other SUVs wouldn’t dare to tread. The Jimny’s off-the-beaten-track’s talents are due to good ground clearance and the excellent traction provided by its four-wheel-drive arrangement. Plainly, the Suzuki Jimny is made to be a slogger - not a luxury vehicle. And that shows in the car's ride back on the blacktop. Take a road trip, and the Jimny bounces everywhere, making it a pretty uncomfortable ride behind the wheel and for your passengers.

New Suzuki Jimny Suzuki’s latest Jimny has a certain brutishness and strength that contradicts its tiny frame. In many ways, it's like a featherweight boxer. Off-road, rather than in the boxing ring, is where the Jimny comes into its own. Indeed, it's the only place where this diminutive SUV can show off the 1.5-litre petrol engine the Japanese automaker has given it. Modernised over the decades, (the Jimny has been around since 1970) the power unit produces 101ps. This means the SUV will do 0-60mph in around 13.0s, and its top speed is just 90mph. What's more, the five-speed manual gearbox is clunky, and it's easy to think there's a sixth gear there, resulting in a sharp protestation from the cogs. Getting any kind of velocity out of the SUV means a lot of right foot action is required. Stamping on the accelerator and keeping your boot there is the only way to shift the Suzuki. Forget overtaking, though – the car is just not set up for any quick manoeuvres like that on busy roads. When the Suzuki Jimny does start producing a good turn of speed, the engine sounds strained and raucous. Add wind roar and tyre rumble to this, and you soon find yourself shouting, rather than having a conversation with your fellow passengers.

Speaking of occupants, the car will hold four-up - maximum - and space is tight in the back. Indeed, it’s far more suited to kids than adults. The boot is minuscule, too at 85-litres, but this does balloon to 830-litres with the rear seats folded. The Jimny’s tall driving position means you get a great view of the road - and the car’s small, square, shape and big windows means visibility is top-notch on tight turns and at junctions. Parking is simple, too, because the SUV’s small size means you can see exactly where to direct it. Overall, £18,000 for a top of the range Suzuki Jimny SZ5, as driven here, is inexpensive, considering it’s an out-and-out 4x4. However, day-to-day running costs aren’t cheap. 41.5mpg is what you’ll get on average - if you drive carefully, and emissions are pretty high at 154g/km. But there’s always a balance, and the Suzuki Jimny addresses its shortcomings by being inexpensive to service and insure. What’s more, no comparably priced vehicle will travel further off the tarmac. The new Jimny goes on sale in the UK in January 2019.

However, the Jimny name is older than me by one year, which means the SUV’s been doing something right all this time. Off the black stuff, the Suzuki’s low-range gearing means you’re not going to get stuck in the wild. It attacks PAGE

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Abarth 124 GT The Abarth 124 is cast from the same die as the Fiat 124, and to improve it Abarth has used the same tactic as it did to change the Fiat 500 into the Abarth 595. In other words, it has added lithe looks, noise and, most importantly, muscle.

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in the Abarth it produces 170PS, compared with the Fiat 124's 140PS. The power unit spins with the proper Italian sports car vigour you'd hope for. It feels wayward and entertaining at high revs - and you're aware of the turbocharger when you push on. The sports car is quick to respond, and the gear change is rapid and exact. The best thing about the 124, though, is the noise it makes. Popping burbles emit from the quad tailpipes when doing the 0-62mph gallop, with the two-seater car reaching the magical figure in 6.8s on its way to 144mph. For an added dose of pleasure, the Abarth 124 has a Sport setting. Hit the button, and things become louder, tighter and faster.

The Abarth 124 uses the same platform as Mazda's MX-5 and Fiat's 124. However, while the Fiat has been constructed to be more of a cruising vehicle, the Abarth is more hardcore - and the most performance-driven of the three brands. The new flagship version of the Abarth 124 is the GT - and only 50 of them are available in Britain. The most obvious thing that differentiates itself from the standard 124 is its removable hard-top lid. The carbon fibre roof weighs in at 16kg, and it adds a bit of rigidity to the open-top frame - and, consequently, better body control. It incorporates a heated rear screen too which, being broader than the screen you get with the usual fabric hood, makes the 124 GT undemanding to see out of.

The throttle feels more insistent, and weight is also added to the steering, making you feel even more united with the road. On the whole, the Abarth 124 GT is a grin-maker, although your beam might falter for a moment when you see the price-tag - £33,635. Yes, it’s a large lump of cash, but once you’ve heard the melodious tailpipes, felt the performance and experienced the handling for yourself, you’ll appreciate that this car is worth every single bank note.

While the extra bulk might seem like a negative thing in a motor that weighs just over a tonne, it’s wholly compensated by the GT’s next most attention-grabbing feature - 17-inch OZ Ultraleggera wheels. They’re lighter than the 124’s regular rims and, united with the roof, give the 124 GT the look of a racing machine. The Abarth uses the same 1.4-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine as Fiat's 124 - except PAGE

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NORFOLK MUMS

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Issue 68 2018

Norfolk Mums On A Mission

Running

All three of us have had running-related encounters this year and, while one of us is still on the injury bench, we decided that sharing our experiences would be a good idea. The hardest part of running is getting started: plucking up the courage to lace up your running shoes (I’m not sure why I refer to them as shoes rather than trainers when it comes to running!) and getting outside. Whether you use a Couch 2 5k app (or similar) or you go out on your own and begin at your own pace, it can be really difficult to get it right first time. Most people think that running is something we are born to be able to do, but getting the breathing right can be really challenging. Additionally, it can take time to build up endurance and stamina. I’ve been doing (up until my injury!) cardio on a regular basis for years now, but running was always much harder to get into. It isn’t all about your body, but your mind too. Telling yourself not to stop when you hit ‘the wall’ and that your legs don’t really hurt that much are challenging things to do, especially if you’re running on your own. I started my running journey many years ago (and have restarted it on several occasions) following a serious illness. In my hospital bed, I said to family members that my aim was to run a 10k the following year to raise money for Cancer Research UK. Just eleven months after learning how to walk again, I completed my very

first 10k race; I achieved my goal although I was determined that my next one, I would run the entire thing - no walking breaks for me! Since then, I have gone on to take part in several 10k races and one half marathon (the amazingly atmospheric Great North Run). I don’t look like a typical runner - I have a tummy and am slightly overweight, BUT I AM A RUNNER! I can run and I do run. So, whatever your size, ability, gender, age… if you’re considering getting out there, just go for it! What’s stopping you?

Got any suggestions for future exercise/sporting activities we should try? Let us know! Facebook: Norfolk Mums on a Mission | Twitter: @norfolkMOAM Instagram: Norfolkmoam PAGE

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NOVA SILVER

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Issue 68 2018

December At Nova Silver It's action stations this December at Nova Silver for our busiest time of year! Customers have been flocking in and online orders are flying out; our team are definitely busy being Santa’s little helpers. Gift vouchers are being sold as an alternative to an item of jewellery, with the luxury of the receiver knowing they have plenty of time to choose exactly what is right for them. We offer a free gift wrapping service; we just ask kindly for a small donation to our charity box and you can have a lovely bag to put your presents in; we will take care of all your needs. We are also using our special Christmas stamp, so you have longer to exchange your gifts, but we are confident you won’t need to! We have such a large selection of jewellery, so look no further for your presents this year. We have recently updated all of our silver stock, so have plenty of items to choose. We have simple, elegant, timeless deigns, often with matching items available, you’re sure to make an impression with your gifts. Our Amber, Bemine and Kitten collection have so many variations and can have quite personal meanings behind so you really would be choosing something special. Our stud earrings, whether they are just simple stars or feature a semi-precious stone, would make a great stocking filler gift. We have seasonal pieces, such as snowflakes and deer as well as elegant pearls which would be great for a party outfit. You can treat yourself with our affordable jewellery as well as buy for others. If you’re looking for a really special, unique, original item then our Bespoke collection would be ideal. We have one-of-a-kind pendants, rings and earrings as well as brooches, bracelets and bangles. Again, in plain silver or featuring amber or semi-precious stones! And it’s not just Christmas, we have Turquoise as our Birthstone for December, so plenty of options for all. We imagine that some of you didn’t realise such a small, local, independent business did so much. We are a close team, who constantly learn new things and thrive on doing the best we can for all of our customers, all of the time. So we hope you choose us this Christmas and that hope you all enjoy the festive season. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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NIBBLES & TIPPLES

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Issue 68 2018

Nibbles &Tipples December Article By Cheryl Cade Autumn sunshine comes as peace descends after a stressful few weeks, seeing the fruition of your and a lot of volunteers' work at Norwich beer festival come to a successful end (until next February). It is also helpful to be sitting in a brewery sampling well-crafted, barrel-aged beers while your husband and the brewers are bringing forth a new beer. A Belgian tripel with quince. I am reminded of the tour I recently made to the Czech Republic where I sampled beer tea. What is beer tea? This is the warm wort as it leaves the mash tun at a perfect 65 degrees. A sweet ruddy brown liquid, which once yeast is

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added to the malty goodness, will make a beer that is about 8%.

I have visited Allday brewing in the past, but this was their last weekend of their ‘summer’ tap openings. Since my last visit, they have brought more wooden barrels for their beers to age in. I love Christmas and to see a barrel that says ‘Do not open until Xmas 2019’ gets me excited. Each barrel will impart something different to the beer; if it is made of fresh oak, you will find a beer that has fresh nut notes and a slight sweet back bone. If the barrel has been used for wine, there should be a marriage of grape, wood and tartness.

My personal favourite is Bourbon barrels. These are harder to get nowadays. In the past due, to

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the US governments ruling that a Bourbon barrel can only be used once (a way to keep the cooper industry going in the US), they were cheap. Then everyone found the magic held within. Strong beers that sit in the barrels for any length of time get a level of rich dark fruits, blended with smooth Bourbon yet topped with a slight oxidised sourness. Think top quality Balsamic vinegar matched with the best Jerez sherry and you're getting it. Add this to an English Stilton, Game pie or rich Mince pie and you have the prefect Christmas beer! What Allday have also added is a traditional Pizza Oven, the pyromaniac in me was in heaven and soon I had created a scene from Danteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inferno. Flames, smoke and heat, aiming for a steady 450 degrees in the centre of the oven. I was grateful for a pond next to me as I set fire to the scraper used to move the charred wood to the back!

Then it was time to learn how to place the pizzas into the oven and turn them every 30 seconds for an even brown, as the base puffs in little hills.

I realise I have not felt so relaxed or looked forward to eating a pizza so much. The crisp base (with their own wild yeast) balanced beautifully with the fresh tomatoes, cheese and herbs. I am now trying to work out how to build a pizza oven in my garden with a small shelter for when it snows, because I am not sure I can wait until next spring, plus could I cook my turkey in it? Cheers to you all Cheryl

For more information

Email: Cheryl@thirstconsultants.com Follow: @ThirstBeers Visit: www.thirstconsultants.com

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THE GADGET MAN

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Issue 68 2018

'Joule'

Now You Can Sous-Vide Like a Professional I’ve been very fortunate to have the opportunity to review a number of ‘lifestyle’ gadgets over the last 5 years, so when a cooking gadget arrived a few weeks ago, I was eager to see what culinary wonders I could concoct. The gadget was the ‘Joule’ from ChefSteps, a Seattle-based food and technology company. Joule helps you cook a variety of food using a method called ‘Sous-vide’, where food is placed in a sealed plastic pouch and then heated in a water bath. Sous-vide cooking normally takes a much longer period than traditional cooking. However, the water temperature is very accurately regulated which means that food is

evenly cooked throughout and retains moisture. Food is usually seared or finished in a griddle prior to serving. Joule is a slim 11” tall mains-powered, fully waterproof device. It heats water using a 1100watt element and attaches to any magnetic steel pot or using the attached clip. Joule is Internet -enabled and connects to its companion cooking app running on either IOS or Android using either Bluetooth or WiFi. It’s also possible to connect to your Amazon Alexa device, which allows control and feedback using voice controls. Food doesn’t come in contact with the device or water, so to get things moving along more

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THE GADGET MAN

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Issue 68 2018

quickly I filled a cooking pot with hot water from the tap. There is no need to place the pot on a hob, but if you don’t ChefSteps recommend placing it on a heatproof mat. I then placed the Joule upright in the pot and it attached itself to the base and plugged it in. After downloading the Joule app to my Android device and pairing it with Joule via WiFi, I was good to go. There are hundreds of recipes, tips and guides available via the app, all integrating with the Joule. I searched for ‘Steak’ and selected ‘Basic Steak’ from the results. I was then asked how I wanted my steak cooked using the VisualDoneness feature which showed how it would look when cooked, I was then asked to enter the thickness of my steak, the app then told me that my ½ inch steaks would need to cook for 30 minutes at 54°C. Joule then begins heating the water to the desired temperature and once achieved, you are ready to start cooking. The food can either be placed in a freezer bag or vacuum sealed bag. Water must not enter the bag, so make sure the open end is secured above the water line. I clicked ‘Start’ and the cooking began. After 30 minutes, the food was ready, I switched off Joule and removed the steak from the water pot. The last thing to do was a quick sear on a griddle and our meal was ready.

We both thought the steaks were cooked to perfection. Home-made burgers were also tasty and juicy. Cooking sous-vide gave excellent results. It was fun and my wife was pleased to see me so eager to help cook a meal! The ChefSteps Joule is not cheap at £189, but if you are interested in a new and alternative way of cooking food, you will find the device both easy to use and produces delicious results. Matt Porter The Gadget Man www.thegadgetman.org.uk PAGE

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SEEWHATMUMMYSAYS

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Issue 68 2018

Christmas: Is Less More? Like many parents at this time of year, we have spent weeks looking at what to get our little ones for Christmas. I have always been a bit of a bargain hunter (who doesn’t like a good bargain?!) and tend to get items throughout the year as I see them if I know they will still be a current interest (e.g Lego sets are always a guaranteed success in our house!). I would always think that this was saving money, but some years our little girl would end up with a mountain of presents because we had spent the usual budget, but as things were cheaper, there was lots more of them! There is also a danger of buying things too early, and the little ones not being interested in them by the time they receive them! Over the years, and with the addition of our little boy, we have begun to set a budget and have been sticking to it (relatively well), but still purchased presents in the sales or second hand to be able to give them more… but do they really need more in quantity?! Or are we better off still purchasing the items in the sale or second hand but stopping at a sensible level and then using the money we have saved on family days out, a trip away, money towards a family holiday etc? Is it worth

spending all that money on one day when they will have so much else? I remember a conversation with my dad about how Christmas is budgeted…do you spend £150 for example or do you purchase presents which have a value of £150 that maybe only cost you £100? Which is fairer to the children? If one child's toys were in the sale and the other childs wasn’t, then it would be fair to assume the child that had less full priced items would be disappointed. There is no right or wrong and it is obviously up to each individual or set of individuals to work out what they feel, but with all the gifts from other family members, gifts from Santa and limited space, we have decided that for us we will continue to bargain hunt and potentially save some money along the way having reduced the budget. Hopefully, our children will value what they have and if it means we have more money to enjoy complete family days with them all year round, then we feel that less is definitely more! We hope you have a fantastic Christmas! Tom & Becca www.seewhatmummysays.com @whatmummysaysuk

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CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS

Christmas Gift Ideas Gorgeous Gifts My 1st Years Orchard Toys Top Picks Baby Toy Wish List Stocking Filler Wish List For Him Wish List For Her Wish List

GORGEOUS GIFTS Issue 68 2018

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Gorgeous Gifts By My 1st Years

Above: (L-R) My 1st Years: Unicorn Bauble (£14), Presents Christmas Eve Box (£50), Santa Please Stop Here Hessian Sack (£20), Mermaid Stocking (£26) at www.my1styears.com

Above: (L-R) My 1st Years: London Bus (£45), Letter To Santa Stocking, Green (£16), Santa Robe (£30), Ceramic Star Bauble (£14) at www.my1styears.com

My 1st Years Reindeer Booties (£22) at www.my1styears.com

My 1st Years Reindeer Stocking (£22) at www.my1styears.com

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ORCHARD TOYS

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Issue 68 2018

Orchard Toys Top Picks What a Performance: Age 5-adult, £16.50 An all-action family board game. In this fun and fast-paced game, perform silly actions and sounds for other players to guess…if you can’t, use the magic decoder to reveal your hidden forfeit!

Superhero Lotto: Age 3-7, £7.75 A superpowered matching and memory game! Use your memory skills to match the items and help your superhero find their special power! Includes fun superhero fact files on the back of the boards.

Giraffes in Scarves: Age 4-7, £7.75 Race to collect the most scarves in this fun counting and colour matching game. The exciting gameplay and quirky giraffe characters are sure to provide lots of laughs!

World Map: Age 5-10, £14.50 Explore the countries and continents of the world, including their animals and landmarks, with this challenging 150-piece jigsaw! Includes a giant poster to extend learning and discussion.

Available from Orchard Toys: www.orchardtoys.com Twitter: @icenimagazine

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BABY TOY WISH LIST

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Issue 68 2018

Baby Toy Wish List 1 2 d go toy!

t grab an The perfec

y o T

by WISH LIST a B 4

5 1. Little Plane, £7.99 from Amazon. / 2. Portable Baby Gym, £92.27 from Amazon. / 3. Bell Rattle, £8.54 from Amazon. / 4. Penguin Musical Wobbler, £9.99 from SmythsToys. / 5. Grow-With-Me Rocking Horse, £51.45 from Amazon. PAGE

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BABY TOY WISH LIST

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Issue 68 2018

Baby Toy Wish List 6 7 music box in t il u b e th Check out , playing a little s that rotate hyme tune! nursery r

Explore music and rhythm

8 9

6. Rotating Music Box, £11.99 from SmythsToys. / 7. Sweet Dreams Baby Mobile, £34.74 from Amazon. / 8. Baby’s Bug Book, £6.99 from Amazon. / 9. Rolling Roadster, £7.99 from Amazon. PAGE

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STOCKING FILLERS

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Issue 68 2018

Stocking Filler Wish List Llama lovers are going to love this heat-changing mug.

2 s tar War S t c e f The per cold-tootsied any gift for opera fan space

The ultimate compact travel mug with flat pack design.

5 1. Pusheen Earphones, £10.27 from Amazon. / 2. No Probllama Mug, £7.99 from Studio / 3. Unicorn Stress Ball, £3.00 from TheWorks. / 4. Stance X Star Wars Socks, £15.99 from TheFowndry. / 5. Stojo Collapsible Cup, £12.99 from TheFowndry. PAGE

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STOCKING FILLERS

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Issue 68 2018

Stocking Filler Wish List 6

charge f o r ou f 1h hours o 3 ou y gives s light fabulou

Think it’s time to level up your tea game? No probllama. The Llama Teapot is a cheerful piece of crockery that will bring character to your table. 6. Mini Animal Speaker, £12.99 from TheFowndry. / 7. Multi Colour USB Rechargeable Bottle Light, £12.99 from TheFowndry. / 8. Llama Teapot, £12.99 from UrbanGifts. / 9. Star Wars Lightsaber Toothbrush,£4.99 from TheFowndry. PAGE

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FOR HIM WISH LIST

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Issue 68 2018

For Him Wish List 1

3 2

Great d rin him or a king gift for ny o raider i ther Norse n your l ife

al adition tr a on Styled nese sword Japa

Made from a solid block of high grade aluminium!

1. Star Wars Stormtrooper Bluetooth Speaker, £39.99 from TheFowndry. / 2. Pocket Knife Sharpener, £12 from Amazon. / 3. Geo Glasses 2pk Blk, £24 From Root 7. / 4. SLIM Wallet, £19.99 from TheFowndry. / 5. Cocktail Bag & Tools, £80 from Root 7 / 6. Ninja Scissors, £21.99 from TheFowndry. / 7. Das Horn Drinking Vessel, £21.99 from TheFowndry. PAGE

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FOR HER WISH LIST

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Issue 68 2018

For Her Wish List 3 USB Powered

2 5

At the touch of a petal watch the LED lights shine and the song notes play.

1. Plant Pot Speaker, £14.99 from IWantOneOfThose. / 2. Make Your Own Fairy Light Sign, £14.99 from TheFowndry. / 3. The Art Of Sleeping Eye Mask, £15.99 from TheFowndry. / 4. Real Wine Gums, £7.49 from TheFowndry. / 5. Rock On Headphone Display Stand, £13.99 from TheFowndry. / 6. Pongsecco-The Prosecco Drinking Game, £9.99 from TheFowndry. / 7. Death Star Teapot & Mug, £22.99 from TheFowndry. PAGE

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GUESS THE YEAR

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Issue 68 2018

Just For Fun

GUESS THE YEAR! On August 7 of this year, Buckingham Palace opened its doors for the very first time, welcoming 4,314 visitors on its tour.

15 different songs reached the number one spot this year, with Meat Loaf’s I would do anything for love (but I won’t do that) spending six weeks there.

? ?

This famous sporting event was declared ‘void’ forcing bookmakers to pay back £75 million in bets.

In April of this year, the very last Going Live was broadcast on BBC One after 179 episodes.

Graham Taylor resigned as England manager after three years in charge.

Last month's solution: 2000

The year is...

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Carry on reading to find out

What's On Across Norfolk this month.

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WHAT'S ON...

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Issue 68 2018

ALEXANDER O’NEAL plays NORWICH Waterfront on Wednesday 19th December!

Securing his name in the R&B history books, Alexander O'Neal is one of the genres most iconic names. With chart smash 'Criticize' lighting up dance floors across the world thirty years after its release, his sound has transcended generations. Working with Prince back in the early days as part of 'The Time' his journey in and out of various band formations propelled him to be the solo artist that we best know him for today. American born, Alexander O'Neal has created a cult appreciation across the globe. His back catalogue transporting his singles in to the UK and Billboard top ten’s as well as a triple platinum selling album and ever expanding discography.

2018 will see the release of Alexander’s first original studio album for 15 years, and fans are in for a treat when they hear how one of the greatest voices of all time has matured into a sensational soul and blues sound. With the release of his hard hitting, blockbuster autobiography in early 2017, a 50 date UK tour to celebrate 30 years of the iconic Hearsay album, it’s safe to say that fans still can’t get enough of the man from Minneapolis!

With his heart firmly in the music industry and a loyalty to the thousands that still buy his records, O'Neal's passion to keep his sound alive is ever present.

Wednesday 19th December NORWICH - Waterfront Box Office No: 01603 508050 / Website: https://thewaterfront.ticketabc. com/events/alexander-oneal-3/ PAGE

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WHAT'S ON...

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Issue 68 2018

Enjoy An Enchanting Christmas At Pensthorpe Natural Park Christmas is an enchanting affair at Pensthorpe Natural Park near Fakenham, as twinkling festive lights adorn parts of the 700-acre nature reserve and special winter events draw visitors in from the cold. From the warmth of the viewing gallery, join Pensthorpe’s resident experts for their magical daily Floodlit Feeds, which take place at 4pm from 1 to 31 December 2018, and 3pm from 1 to 31 January 2019. Watch the birds gather for their afternoon feed as the sun sets over Mill Pond and the surrounding Wensum Valley countryside. Lasts 30 minutes. Included in admission price or available to non-visitors for £3 p/adult and £2 p/child. For those who prefer to do their Christmas shopping ‘after-hours’, Pensthorpe’s late night shopping event on 13 December 2018 provides an opportunity for evening browsing. Peruse the Pensthorpe shop, which is a treasure trove packed with gifts, local food and drink, toys, jewellery, homewares and nature books, plus items for bird-care and wildlife watching. There will be special discounts for members plus supplier demonstrations enabling shoppers to try before they buy. Those keen to brave winter’s icy chill and learn about the wonders of the natural world during the colder months will love A Winter’s Tail, running from 19 December 2018 to 2 January 2019. This fun family event encourages visitors to explore the beauty of Pensthorpe’s natural habitats. Learn enchanting stories about the

animals that tuck themselves up for a long winter’s sleep, the incredible creatures who adapt to handle cold conditions, and those who take the long and adventurous migratory journey to warmer climes. There will also be some cool craft-making activities and a winter-inspired self-guided trail weaving through the reserve. Included in admission price. Situated 11 miles inland from the north Norfolk coast and with the beautiful River Wensum winding through it, Pensthorpe Natural Park encourages visitors to explore its diverse habitats and get acquainted with the thousands of bird, plant and wildlife species that call it home. Muddy wellies are encouraged and a sense of adventure is a must! For more information about Pensthorpe visit pensthorpe.com or call 01328 851465. PAGE

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WHAT'S ON...

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Issue 68 2018

Upcoming Events From The UEA Music Centre Christmas Old and New Sunday 9 December 2018 6.30-7.30pm (doors open 6.00pm) UEA Chamber Choir, under the direction of UEA Choirmaster Tom Primrose, will perform their autumn concert ‘Christmas Old and New’, on Sunday 9 December at 6.30pm at St George’s Church, Tombland (Norwich). The programme will include secular and sacred Christmas music spanning five centuries, from mediaeval carols to modern songs, from the well-known to the undiscovered. Highlights from the programme include Judith Weir’s delightful Illuminare Jerusalem, Pierre de la Rue’s evocative Gaude virgo and Tomás Luis de Victoria’s powerful and intense O magnum mysterium.

UEA Choir and Chamber Choir: Christmas Carol Concert The University of East Anglia’s Choir and Chamber Choir will perform their ever-popular Christmas Carol concert on Wednesday 12 December, at 7.30pm, at St John the Baptist Roman Catholic Cathedral, Norwich. Under the direction of UEA Choirmaster Tom Primrose, the 170-strong choir, and 35-strong chamber choir, will perform music by Rutter, Vaughan Williams, Holst, and Dove, as well as a host of well-loved Christmas carols for the audience to join in. The concert will also feature performances from UEA Community Choir and a solo by organist William Falconer.

The concert is free to attend and all are welcome.

If you would like to celebrate the festive season, with many of your favourite carols, in one of Norwich’s grandest historic buildings, come and join us on Wednesday 12 December.

For further information about the concert, please visit: www.uea.ac.uk/music-centre/events, email: musicevents@uea.ac.uk; phone: 01603 593948; or follow @UEAConcerts on Twitter or UEA Music Centre on Facebook.

Tickets for the ‘UEA Choir Christmas Carol Concert’ cost £9 (full price) or £6 (UEA staff, students, and seniors) and are available to purchase: by phone or in person from St George's Music Shop (01603 626414); or online from the UEA Music Centre website (www.uea.ac.uk/music-centre/events/tickets).

Please note: Doors open at 6.00pm and close at 6.30pm (latecomers will not be admitted) Please take your seats 10 minutes before the advertised time. Seating is unreserved.

For more information about the concert, please visit: www.uea.ac.uk/music-centre/events, email: musicevents@uea.ac.uk or follow @UEAConcerts on Twitter or UEA Music Centre on Facebook. PAGE

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ICENI - HOROSCOPES

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Issue 68 2018

Horoscopes For December Aries 21 March - 20 April You can find yourself

Libra 24 September - 23 October Your finances can pick

particularly nostalgic this December, and this can see you reuniting with old friends and colleagues. A change of location is very possible for Christmas itself, and whether you choose a sun-kissed beach or snowy slopes, this can really invigorate you. The big day itself can also be jolly, with someone very different catching your imagination.

up from the 4th, and money that you've been waiting on over the last couple of months, can finally emerge. Mercury merges with Jupiter in the run-up to Christmas, and a card or message you receive can really lift your spirits. If you are intent on any home changes or moving, things can really take shape as the year 2019 dawns.

Taurus 21 April - 21 May A relationship which has

Scorpio 24 October - 22 November You can have the

stumbled can be re-ignited, as your ruler Venus, sweeps back into your sector of relating from the 3rd. In fact, by the 17th, far more harmonious vibes will be flowing. In week three as Mars co-operates with Pluto, anything that you put your mind to has a fantastic chance of success. Your determination can be absolutely tremendous.

happy knack of attracting good things to you this month Scorpio. With your two guide planets of Mars and Pluto linking superbly, you can inspire anyone you encounter to follow your lead. However, on Christmas Day itself, you may prefer to enjoy a quiet, cosy day, spent with the people that really count. Tech gadgets can appeal in the sales.

Gemini 22 May - 21 June The New Moon of the 7th,

Sagittarius 23 November - 21 December With your

along with your ruler Mercury gliding into your sector of relating on the 13th, gives you a great opportunity to promote your ideas to others, but also to tune in effectively to key people. If you are an ambitious Gemini, despite the Christmas excitement, the chance to push for a big goal presents itself perfectly in week three of December.

guide planet back in your sign for the first time in twelve years, and combining with the buzzy vibe of Mercury from the 17th to Christmas Eve, your self-confidence is given a huge boost, and this can see you really strutting your stuff. With Venus back in your sector of memories, you can feel particularly sentimental for those people from your past.

Cancer 22 June - 23 July The Full Moon in your sign on

Capricorn 22 December - 20 January Good causes can

the 22nd, can see you catching up with some last-minute tasks, but also reaching out to anyone who is having a less easy time of it. Your caring thoughtfulness can be greatly appreciated. Your relationships will take on greater meaningfulness as New Year approaches, and one tie can become that much more committed.

benefit from your time, energy or even donations. You can have a particular appreciation this year, of the more spiritual dimension of the festivities, but also can enter into a more playful side of the celebrations once the Sun moves into your sign on the 22nd. You can be particularly single minded about any key plans for the New Year.

Leo 24 July - 23 August If you're hosting this Christmas,

Aquarius 21 January - 19 February You can find yourself

there's every chance you're going to be busy with last-minute changes to ensure that your guests will enjoy the most comfortable experience possible. You can be one of the most generous of hosts and can be super organised, but create an upbeat and vibrant atmosphere. Any New Year's resolutions will be solemnly made this year.

more outgoing, and in the mood to network and socialize. A friend or group of people can prove to be particularly fortunate in the run-up to Christmas, and a reunion lead to a happy celebration. The time between Yule and New Year, could be more reflective, and a fine period to recharge and prepare for the opportunities 2019 will bring.

Virgo 24 August - 23 September Venus gives you a great

Pisces 20 February - 20 March This can be a very busy

chance to interact well with people this Christmas. And whether it's at any festive gathering or at a more personal level, you can really sparkle. If romance is on your mind, you could make a bold move in week three, and your daring may just pay off. Creative plans for the New Year can take on a tangible solidness as 2018 winds down.

December for you, with a chance to make tangible progress in your professional or worldly hopes and goals. Although Christmas planning can also see you busy, an interview, presentation or discussion between the 17th and the 22nd, can have important and positive ramifications for many Moons to come. Sincere friendships can be a comfort.

Astrologer Patrick Arundell provides a unique take on Horoscopes and Astrology. Join him daily for your Daily Horoscope and his penetrating insight into this fascinating subject. Also FREE Horoscope Videos. PAGE

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