Ipswich24 Magazine - February 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

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Available in and around Ipswich, Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Stowmarket and Hadleigh – Every Month

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OCEAN CRUISES RIVER CRUISES The Luxury Travel Specialist

www.cruiseready.co.uk

Tel: 01394 799179

2 New Street, Woodbridge

Visit us online at www.ipswich24.co.uk for more information and events

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HH H Ipswich Regent Theatre launches Hnew season of live streamed events H Ipswich Regent Theatre has launched a new season of live streamed events with online production company Fane Online for audiences to enjoy in their own homes. The season kicked off recently with A Night in with Richard Flanagan and there are a variety of other authors and personalities including presenter Stacey Dooley, broadcaster Nicky Campbell, Mel Giedroyc and many more.

Celebrating the publications of their new books, these authors will be live in conversation, discussing their inspiration for their book and the themes throughout. Previous authors in 2020 included Graham Norton, Ian Rankin, Nadiya Hussain as well as personalities from Ipswich Regent’s previous seasons such as Dick & Angel Strawbridge and the Hairy Bikers.

Audiences have the option to buy a standard ticket or a ticket that includes the book associated with the event. All events will be filmed to the highest quality, delivering an at-home cinema-style experience that goes beyond the standard live stream. Ticket holders can watch the event live, or for up to 48 hours after the original stream.

Cllr Sarah Barber, Portfolio Holder for the Town Centre has said: “It’s a pleasure to be able to offer even more live streamed events from Fane into 2021, just as the country enters into its 3rd lockdown. This impressive selection of live events should have something for everyone to enjoy – especially if you have received any of these books as gifts”

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Tickets for the live streamed events are now available to book online at: https://ipswichtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/?performanceTypes=live-stream A Night in with Nikesh Shukla

Wednesday 3rd February

A Night in with Marian Keyes

Thursday 4th February

A Night in with Priyanka Chopra Jonas

Thursday 11th February

A Night in with Stacey Dooley

Friday 12th February

A Night in with Raven Smith

Wednesday 17th February

A Night in with Nicky Campbell

Thursday 18th February

A Night in with Sarah J Maas

Saturday 20th February

Emma Barnett: Periods, Power and Politics

Sunday 21st February

A Night in with Louise Pentland

Tuesday 23rd February

A Night in with Kiley Reid

Friday 26th February

A Night in with Anna Jones

Friday 5th March

A Night in with Mel Giedroyc

Tuesday 30th & Wednesday 31st March

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Follow the rules and keep each other safe Find out more at www.ipswich.gov.uk/coronavirus

#IpswichNeedsYou

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INSIDE THIS MONTH FEBRUARY A Royal Connection:

In Later Life:

Our regular section aimed at our older readers and their families. Helping you live and enjoy your life in retirement.

A new book on King Henry VIII includes information on Ipswich’s royal links. Find out more including a preview of the book.

12-17 At Home:

19 Brexit and Travel:

We speak to local travel agent Lee Hunt of Deben Travel about how Brexit may affect holiday travel.

In this month’s lifestyle section we discover “the” colours for 2021, we ask “are you stuck in a mealtime rut?”, plus there’s a great competition and plans for getting your garden ready for the year ahead.

Motors:

What do UK motorists moan about most? We have the results of a survey to find out.

If you’ve had a ding on a car park you are not alone! Plus how many people can afford an electric car.

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New Year, New You:

Ipswich24 is published on the last Thursday of every month by Fizzwig Designs Ltd. Available Free from numerous outlets across Ipswich, Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Hadleigh, Stowmarket and surrounding villages, including leading supermarkets, libraries etc.

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Enquiries, Editorial and Advertising Contributions can be sent by: Email to: info@ipswich24.co.uk Mail to: Ipswich24, Fizzwig Designs Ltd, 12A Britannia Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 4PE Contributions by 5th of month preceding publication.

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Tel: 01473 351270

www.ipswich24.co.uk

New Year’s see new starts, fresh hopes and resolutions. We have some inspirational ideas for hobbies, health changes or maybe even a new look.

Anglia Bulb Company Specialise in mail order flower bulbs.

We have a huge range of summer flowering bulbs for spring planting that will brighten up your garden.

Visit our website at: www.angliabulbs.com Anglia Bulb Company, 62a Straight Road, Boxted, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5QY

Contact us for a catalogue on 01206 272728

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A nice gift for choral society Stowmarket Chorale, a 65-member choral society with a 120year history of putting on concerts in Stowmarket and beyond, received a nice present just before Christmas. Stowmarket Town Council approved a grant of £500 towards helping the choir get through this difficult time when in-person concerts, and even rehearsals, have been impossible to provide.

The choir is still meeting on Wednesday nights at 7.30pm, but instead of being at Combs Ford Primary School the rehearsal is held online, on the Zoom platform. The choir has had to adapt it’s choice of rehearsal music since the Covid crisis struck, and has now offered so far a wide assortment of material to keep members interested – from the soaring harmonies of sacred favourites such as Mozart’s Ave Verum Corpus, to the evergreen tunefulness of A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square.

In the run up to this most peculiar Christmas, participants were invited to put in requests for favourite carols to sing. It was decided to make the sessions open to the public - guest singers are allowed to participate without charge and without commitment, and are warmly welcomed. It is always hoped that guests will enjoy the experience and become full members.

• For further information, email info@stowmarketchorale.org.uk or visit the website at www.stowmarketchorale.org.uk

Find a firmer footing The first few months of the year are generally cold, wet and a bit miserable, with a higher chance of ice and snow on the ground and on pavements.

It is precisely these kinds of weather conditions that tend to give rise at this time of year to more people

slipping, tripping or falling when out and about, often in a public place or even in the workplace.

These types of accident also, unfortunately, often result in people sustaining more serious injuries, such as broken bones and spinal and head injuries, that, in the worst cases, can prove fatal.

However, bringing a claim for personal injury as a result of a slip, trip or fall can be tricky. Pinpointing the correct person to bring a claim against can be difficult, if, for example, there are a number of potential owners of the accident site.

Gathering the evidence needed to prove such a claim against whoever is responsible can then sometimes seem to be a mammoth task.

Depending upon where you fall on publicly or privately owned land - also makes a difference to the chances of successfully bringing a claim for compensation for personal injury and loss because the courts apply different tests to determine whether responsibility can be attached.

For example, while you may not be able to claim compensation if you tripped or slipped on a public highway or pavement, if the same accident occurred on privately owned land, you may be more successful.

So, what should you do, if you have an accident as a result of a slip, trip or fall either out and about or at work?

- Seek medical attention / get help.

- Report the accident to whoever is responsible for the site of the accident, whether that is the local council or a privately owned individual or company – ensure that the accident is logged in the accident book.

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- If the incident takes place at work, notify your workplace health and safety representative.

- Take photographs of the scene of the accident on the day - or as near to the day of the accident as possible.

- Take details of exactly where you fell, what caused you to fall and what your direction of travel was.

- If you are aware that remedial action is taken after the accident has occurred to rectify any defect that caused you to slip, trip or fall, or any steps are taken after the event (such as putting up warning signs), if possible, get pictures of them and record the dates on which the remedial steps were taken.

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If available, get witness evidence from anyone who saw the accident or who can provide information as to how long the defect that caused you to fall was present before the incident took place.

- Keep records of your injuries and details of any out of pocket expenses you may have incurred as a result of your injuries, such as loss of earnings, medications, travel expenses and details of any care that you may have received.

Bringing these types of claim for compensation for personal injury can be a minefield. So, if you require assistance or advice on whether you can claim following an accident where you have slipped, tripped or fallen, please contact Louise Plant on 01473 298293 or by email at lplant@prettys.co.uk.

Singers are searching for a conductor Geoff Lavery, the current musical director at Gippeswyk Singers, will be stepping down in June 2021 after a tenure of 10 years.

The Gippeswyk Singers is a chamber choir of approximately 40 singers which was originally founded by Geoff in 1972 with the aim of raising money for local charities with the profits from their concerts. (He left after the initial 10 years to pursue his musical career and then returned to Suffolk upon retirement.) Geoff has taken the choir from strength to strength with tireless energy and enthusiasm and was to finish with a flourish - a final concert in May 2021 at Snape Maltings Concert Hall. Sadly, the Covid 19 virus has prevented this from going ahead next year. The choir has continued to keep in touch with zoom meetings and emails, and hope to be able to start rehearsals again (with safety measures in place) in 2021.

The Gippeswyk Singers enjoy singing a wide

range of music from classical to modern, both a cappella and accompanied, and occasionally larger choral works with professional soloists and orchestral accompaniment.

The choir performs several local concerts each year and the occasional wedding as well as touring every second summer with successful

The choir tours have been hugely popular with the Singers. Travelling, sharing meals, and sightseeing as well as the joy of singing together has created warmth and lasting friendships amongst the group and helped form a wonderfully friendly and cohesive choir. Performances just get better and better!

Gippeswyk Singers has also performed to sellout audiences at Snape Maltings Concert Hall where they joined forces with two other Suffolk choirs (Beccles Choral Society and Phoenix Singers) and Lambeth Orchestra from London for Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius (2017) and Verdi’s Requiem (2019), both conducted by Geoff Lavery.

concert tours to Holland (2014), Yorkshire (2016), The West Country (2018) with a further tour planned to Elgar Country in Gloucestershire in the future.

The Gippeswyk Singers are hoping to attract an experienced and enthusiastic new conductor to lead them into the future and many more years of successful singing. Applications can be downloaded from their website – www.gippeswyksingers.co.uk

Added support offered to those looking to become Freelance As 2021 continues amid fears of job security in the wake of the Coronavirus tier system, MENTA has increased their range of new business and sole trader support for those looking to become their own boss.

The package of support includes business planning templates, advice, marketing support and training as well as insights and training to bookkeeping, taxation and business grants and loans. The series of training is delivered free of charge across live video workshops and funded by the European Regional Development Fund to residents of both Norfolk and Suffolk. The funded programme ends in August this year and over the past few months, MENTA has experienced an increased uptake of interest from those choosing to go freelance.

John Neild leads the MENTA training programmes and says, "We are seeing highly experienced individuals with many years of business expertise choosing our package of support as they move or consider the move from being an employee to being their own boss and our support is designed to prepare the individual for the inevitable changes, not just in the processes of running your own business but the mindset and the disciplines, as well as the benefits" If you live in either Norfolk of Suffolk, you can sign up to three fully funded training sessions from the link below and be assured that you will be receiving amongst the very best of business support and coaching available.

MENTA records a customer satisfaction net promoter score that has it as listed second across the UK in positive customer feedback and satisfaction.

Choose your new business training package dates from this link: https://www.menta.org.uk/start-up-training you can also discuss your requirements or ask questions of the team by emailing bookings@menta.org.uk • All training and support is free of charge

an email from John attaching information and templates discussed during the morning. It gave me plenty to work on whilst waiting for the next two workshops to cover marketing and bookkeeping"

UP T R TA NING S O E RAI D I V E ESS T V I L # USIN B NEW remote live learning sessions for those looking to start a new business You’ll find out about legal structures, business plans, successful marketing, bookkeeping and tax.

Visit www.menta.org.uk or email bookings@menta.org.uk to enjoy your live training at home.

Latest client reviews

"I recently completed their start-up course, the third part completed via zoom which was much appreciated! I found the whole course has given me more confidence in my new business plans. There is so much to consider and the course has really helped focus my time and energy" "I was looking for new business start-up advice so contacted MENTA who recommended their three free orkshops offering advice for new start-ups.

The first MENTA LIVE session - Business Planning - was provided through video conferencing. Maggie and Emma in the admin team gave me clear instructions so that I could complete the enrolment forms and access the video conferencing. John Clarke and Shaun Lowthorpe hosted the session and it covered everything promised and allowed time for questions specific to each separate business idea. The course was following up quickly by

A laptop or tablet is required.

Funded by

ADVICE

TRAINING

EVENTS

NETWORKING

SPACE

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Gigabit-speed broadband is coming to Ipswich We’re transforming Ipswich into one of the best digitally connected places on the planet.

Access gigabit-speed internet services, that’s 1000Mbps!

Work from home with seamless file sharing and reliable cloud access

Say goodbye to the dreaded buffer symbol

Stream Ultra HD and 4K TV in multiple rooms at the same time

Enjoy crystal-clear video calling

Fully benefit from smart home technologies

Find out more cityfibre.com/ipswich24

— Advertorial —

“We need you to help us build Gigabit Britain” Charles Kitchin, City Manager, CityFibre The Government’s pledge to get fibre done, as outlined by the Prime Minister, will have been music to the ears of communities that have struggled to leave the digital age’s starting blocks.

It is fair to say that the benefits of increased full fibre availability go far beyond providing just faster, more reliable internet, especially when we consider how important connectivity has proved throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

So, with plans for a nationwide investment in digital infrastructure now gathering pace at the highest levels of government, there is cause to look optimistically towards the opportunity ahead. Telecoms players and network providers, like CityFibre, are mobilising, but they need the civils community’s support. The reward? Secure, long term, high-value projects at local, regional and nationwide levels.

In telecoms circles, we’ve been talking about the transformative potential of full fibre connectivity for close to a decade. Now, with the backing of the Government, it’s widely accepted that these full fibre networks, which take fibre, not copper, all the way to the premises, are the only technology capable of delivering the high speed, high capacity, resilient connectivity required to support successful servicebased economies today and into the future.

This is where the local construction industry comes in and where new opportunities lie, waiting to be seized by firms in Ipswich. Extending full fibre network coverage to the remaining 90 per cent of the country will be a huge feat for civil engineering. It will require, at-scale, simultaneous deployment in hundreds of locations across the country, including Ipswich, if the 100% full fibre coverage target is to be reached.

For civils providers in Suffolk and Norfolk and the East in general, this presents a massive and sustained opportunity for new contracts, job creation and regional expansion. Even the size of the prize itself is impressive - up to £30 billion to achieve total national coverage.

At CityFibre, we have already committed over £1 billion in the design, mobilisation and build of town and city-wide networks in 26 cities, which will address 2 million homes and businesses. This is just the first part of our larger £4 billion Gigabit City investment programme to reach up to 8 million homes and businesses, which we estimate will create around 7,000 construction jobs.

With the construction industry experiencing its second fastest activity drop since April 2009, organisations that are nimble and agile enough to work with network builders have the opportunity to create real value and grow their businesses with guaranteed work for the next decade. Those up to the task will be called upon to manage and build our networks, bringing full fibre to every front door efficiently and with the requisite care and quality – ultimately ensuring residents and businesses, and the town or city, can enjoy next generation internet access as soon, and as seamlessly, as possible.

We are currently building gigabit networks in Ipswich, Lowestoft and Bury St Edmunds and have plans to add more locations in the East. So, for those that are ready and willing, the door is open to work with us directly or as part of our supply chain as we build Gigabit Britain.

Whether you are an individual or a company you can learn more about the opportunities available at www.cityfibre.com/careers

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New lifesaving defibrillator available The 11th Ipswich Scout Group are pleased to announce a new lifesaving defibrillator is now available for community use at its Headquarters on Chesterfield Drive in the Castle Hill area of Ipswich.

The device, which delivers an electric current to restart the heart when someone is in cardiac arrest, has been placed in a prominent position by the main entrance and is available for the public to use.

The device is designed to be used by someone with no medical training, with an in-built speaker giving simple step-by-step instructions to operate.

Easily spotted from the road, the fully automatic defibrillator is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Registration of the machine with the East of England Ambulance Service means members of the public will be notified of the location and code to unlock the defibrillator cabinet when making a 999 call.

Gifts from Suffolk From Suffolk With Love sells planet conscious, plastic free gift boxes of carefully selected hand-picked items from some of the best small producers in Suffolk.

Vicki, who started the independent online business in June last year, believes that kindness is the key to making someone’s day. With this in mind, she has put together some thoughtful, planet conscious, plastic free gifts for you to send to the special people in your life. These have been carefully selected from some of the best small producers local to us in our beautiful corner of the world, Suffolk.

Whether for a thank you, a message of support, a birthday gift or even a ‘just because’ From Suffolk with Love believe that these boxes of goodness will help share your well wishes and love and are sure to be just the thing to make someone’s day.

From Suffolk With Love is passionate about taking care of our planet. The products and all packaging are plastic free and suppliers are chosen because they care for the world as much as they do.

The packaging is deliberately simple for minimal waste, with a single sheet of (acid free) tissue paper for that beautiful presentation, in a simple box that can be used and reused. Even their bubble wrap is paper, so if you can't find a use for it you can pop it in the compost.

So if you’re struggling to find a gift for someone special in your life, you just want to spread a little joy or maybe even a little treat for yourself, then From Suffolk with Love can help.

• To see their full range of gift boxes and to place your order visit www.fromsuffolkwithlove.co.uk and you can follow them on Instagram @from.suffolkwithlove

The defibrillator, cabinet and consumables cost in the region of £2,000.00 and was made possible by Scout Group fundraising activity and generous donations from Suffolk County Councillor David Goldsmith’s Locality Budget, Ashcroft Christian Fellowship, East of England Coop, Highfield Nursery School Children’s Centre & Daycare and The Chesterfield Drive Practice.

Ollie Arthur, Executive Committee Member of the charity, said, “Defibrillators save lives, so we’re delighted to give back to our community by providing this lifesaving equipment.

“We’re now letting the community know it’s here; so that if it’s ever needed, people know where to access it. At Scouts, we prepare young people with skills for life, with first aid training featuring as part of the fun and adventurous activities we offer our members”.

How will Brexit affect European Travel.....

January and February are usually our busiest time of the year for making new holiday bookings but of course this year is very different. The covid pandemic has ground the travel industry to a halt but we are confident that as more of us are vaccinated we will be keen to get away but will travelling within the EU be different since Brexit?

We expect to see very few changes but here are a few points to be aware of: - The UK’s reciprocal health agreement with the EU will continue. If you have an EHIC card this will still be valid until the card expires, at that stage you can apply for by Lee Hunt the new GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) which Deben Travel will provide medical cover across the EU. It is important to mention that the GHIC in no way replaces your own personal travel insurance which covers so much more than just your health whilst travelling.

- Check your passport is valid for 10 years and 6 months from date of issue.

- On entering the EU country you may be asked to show a return or onward flight ticket and will not be able to use the EU or EEA lane when in a queue for passport control.

- Be prepared for extra customs checks, what you are permitted to take in to the EU may have changed. You will not be able to take milk or meat products, there are also restrictions on plants and seeds.

- If you are driving within the EU you can continue to use your UK driving licence although alterations may need to be made to your vehicle.

- You can not use the existing pet passport scheme. You will require an AHC (animal health certificate) for your pet.

- Mobile phone roaming charges will change, please check with your phone provider to avoid high charges.

Please check Gov.uk/visit-europe for full details of the changes.

If you would like a holiday to look forward to contact Deben Travel or Cruise Ready. The majority of holidays are now on sale for 2022 with some cruise and touring holidays also on sale for 2023. Do not put your dreams on hold!

Deben Travel, 01394 615620, 25 The Thoroughfare, Woodbridge Cruise Ready, 01394 799179, 2 New Street, Woodbridge www.debentravel.co.uk – www.cruiseready.co.uk

A family run business based in the beautiful market town of Woodbridge, we are retailers of quality Sterling Silver, precious and semi precious Jewellery. gemstone Jeweller 53A The Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1AH www.silversunjewellery.co.uk Telephone: 01394 382114 Email: Silversunjewellery@gmail.com Open: Monday - Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm Sundays – Please phone in advance

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newyear newyou AT HOME

What’s your power animal?

For thousands of years, there’s been a deep relationship between humans and the animal kingdom.

Cultures worldwide have relied on the guidance, wisdom and symbolism of power animals – a teacher or messenger that comes to each of us in the form of an animal to offer guidance, protection, power and wisdom. Sadly in today’s high-speed, stressful world most of us have lost this valuable connection, but now you can rekindle it with this insightful new book, Discover Your Power Animal: Learn How to Work With Your Animal Guides by Naz Ahsun from Naz Ahsun.

Discover Your Power Animal opens an amazing and empowering doorway to a world where you can experience your own connection with power animals and access their wisdom and support. In this easy-to-use book, Naz shows you how to open yourself up to these truly amazing animal messengers, plus details the ways you can work with them alongside your chakras to enhance your wellbeing.

The book includes: - The four main ways our power animals manifest: a guide animal, messenger animal, journey animal and shadow animal - A guide to 21 power animals that you can use to support your day-to-day life - Guided meditations on how to find your power animal and using them to meditate with your chakras - Further ways to work with your power animals, including dancing, automatic writing and dream invocation Power animals include: Ant, Antelope, Bat, Butterfly, Crow, Deer, Dolphin, Eagle, Frog, Gorilla, Hawk, Horse, Panther, Peacock, Salmon, Snake, Spider, Swan, Tiger, Tortoise, Wolf.

Naz Ahsun is an author, podcaster and radio presenter. After a magical encounter with a robin in 2012, Naz found a new direction guided by her power animals, which led to a string of amazing synchronicities and new possibilities.

She lives in Hertfordshire. Find more at www.naseemahsun.com.

• Discover Your Power Animal: Learn How to Work With Your Animal Guides by Naz Ahsun is available at all good book shops.

— COMPETITION — Ipswich24 has got two copies of Discover Your Power Animal to give away to lucky readers. To be in with a chance of winning this great prize just send your answer to the following question, along with your name, address and a daytime contact telephone number to: Discover Your Power Animal Competition, Ipswich24, 12A Britannia Road, Ipswich, IP4 4PE or you can enter online at www.ipswich24.co.uk. The closing date for entries is Monday 1st March 2021.

Q. What bird is author Naz Ahsun have a magical encounter with in 2012?

PRIZE COMP

A most suitable sport for any Covid tier Club croquet is permitted in tiers 1, 2 and 3 and is a great way to exercise, enjoy the open air and socialise while remaining 2 meters apart and complying with the ‘Rule of 6’. It is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of any age, gender or background on equal terms because in croquet tactics can outwit physical strength and fitness.

Joining the Ipswich Croquet Club as a Full Winter member entitles you to play seven days a week during daylight hours for as little as £1.73 a week.

It’s skilful, it’s challenging and above all it’s fun.

At the Club they offer free and friendly introductory sessions to anyone who would like to have a go. For more information go to www.ipswichcroquetclub.com, email croquetclub.ipswich@gmail.com or phone/text the club secretary Ria Hunt on 07944 205 065.

Find some lockdown motivation

As we go into yet another lockdown, you probably wouldn’t think that triathlon is the ideal sport to take up when you can only get out to exercise once a day.

Ipswich Triathlon Club is inviting you to join for 2021 and they want to help you get fit as a fiddle ready for your first race in the summer.

While all of their group club activities are suspended, Ipswich Triathlon Club will be running a series of online sessions for newbie and novice triathletes.

You’ll learn all about the different types of races you can take part in, what to expect, how to train and how to do it on a budget. They can also help you put together a training plan.

Some people are put off the idea of triathlon because they think it will be very expensive, this is not true especially if you are just starting out. Ipswich Triathlon Club can show you where to find the best second hand equipment and how to get round your first race.

Ipswich Triathlon Club will tell you about the different distances you can race over and explain some of the technical jargon used in triathlon. They will look at some of the rules of the sport as well as its history and we'll share some truly inspiring stories.

Triathlon training done properly is one of the best ways to gain all round fitness while avoiding hurting yourself, and you can start at absolutely any age. You don’t need to do it with other people so it suits training by yourself.

Ipswich Triathlon Club will help you to develop a full training plan and will be available to give guidance on how to adapt it over the coming months as you discover what you enjoy the most and what you are best at.

The club costs £20 to join for the year and amongst other things gives you membership of England Athletics and reduced entry fees to running races.

Being a club member also gives you access to cycling time trials during the summer and cross-country running races in the winter.

If you would like to join visit the club website www.entrycentral.com/ ipswich-tri

Happy (belated) New Year to you all!

Craftability is still a wonderful source of inspiration and materials for all things crafting. Although at present the shop is closed because of the lockdown their staff are busy at home planning for the future. Kits are being put together and workshops being decided for you to enjoy when it is safe to do so. Hopefully, next month they will be able to showcase these new kits and arrange for them to be posted or delivered to you.

In the meantime, they would like to thank all of you for supporting them during these very difficult times and look forward to welcoming all new and old customers back to the shop!

for all your crafting needs Crafts, Gifts, Dolls Houses and Accessories 4 St. Lawrence Street, Ipswich IP1 1DN Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5.00pm

Tel: 01473 257550

www.craftability-ipswich.co.uk Email: sales@craftability-ipswich.co.uk 9

NEW YEAR NEW YOU

— Advertorial —

Ambulance Clinician loses over 6 stone! n Then

2020 was an interesting year for all of us and for Scott it was no exception.

Whilst working as an Emergency Medical Technician in an area of East London with the highest infection and death rate in the UK, he contracted COVID-19 last April. Scott explained how it was an extremely scary experience at the time as they were losing a lot of NHS workers to the virus and he was petrified he was going to become one of those that lost their lives.

“I knew that I had to do something about my weight, especially after reading in the news how COVID can be life threatening to people who are obese. I was feeling exhausted just walking from one room in my flat to another.” said Scott.

Once fully recovered, Scott decided that he needed to do something about his weight. In September 2020 he embarked on his 1:1 journey and

by Christmas had lost over six and a half stone*. Scott’s transformation is amazing and his consultant and family are so proud of him.

“I was really surprised how tasty the products were and how easy the results are continuing to come.”

Scott continues, “With these results it makes it easy to follow.

The continued daily support from Rebecca is a massive help too. I have tried many diets previously but The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan has by far had the best results.”

Scott has now moved back to Suffolk and is currently working for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust. He needed a new uniform because his old one was way too big.

He would like to lose a further two stone. Alongside the diet he has

Unlike other diets, The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan is unique in providing one-to-one consultant-led support. They help to create the right plan for you, then inspire and support you throughout your entire journey.

Each Step has been tailored to help you reach your target. You will work with your consultant to adapt the plan so it fits in with your lifestyle. Your consultant will set individual goals and make it personalised to suit you, using a wide range of nutritionally balanced meal replacements alongside conventional food.

Rebecca Thomas is a weight loss consultant based in Kesgrave, however she is currently offering virtual support country wide due to the pandemic. Rebecca is able to offer her support to you via social media, telephone, text or email and if you cannot collect your products, she offers a delivery service or postal option too.

How fantastic! You can have your products delivered directly to your door, along with a huge dollop of support.

Rebecca previously lost three stone in just two months doing The 1:1 Diet herself!

She has maintained her weight loss for six years and has been a consultant for almost four years, helping others to achieve their weight loss goals.

To celebrate Scott’s fantastic achievement, Rebecca is offering this special offer. – £10 off your weekly order for the first four weeks!

In addition you’ll receive a further 10% off collection from Kesgrave or FREE delivery on orders over £35 to Ipswich and the surrounding villages*.

* Terms & Conditions apply. Starting the plan would be subject to a free consultation and medical assessment.

n Now

now begun doing home workouts and the Couch to 5k programme.

Scott cannot believe the energy and new lease of life it has given him. *The weight lost and timeframes are particular to this slimmer, everyone’s weight loss journey is unique to them.

Perhaps this last year has made you reevaluate your career path?

Maybe you’re in need of some additional income? Why not consider becoming a consultant and help other people improve their health and mental wellbeing.

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU

Sailing, Yachting & Rowing at Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club Happy New Year, we hope 2021 will be a fantastic year for you and your family. Are you looking to take up a new sport in 2021? Well Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club may have just the answer for you, when it gets warmer!

Sailing at Felixstowe Ferry on the River Deben and the North Sea has been going on since the 1920’s and it continues to thrive.

Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club (FFSC) was established in 1931. They are “The” premier sailing venue on the East coast. The membership for FFSC has grown over the years and continues to increase due to more and more people and families wanting to sail and enjoy getting out on the water.

Youth Sailing at Felixstowe Ferry (YSFF) is a registered charity (no.

1088678) and is based at FFSC. Their aim is to teach 10 to 18 year olds to sail dinghies in an enjoyable and safe environment. There are over 60 junior members of FFSC and over 30 of them sail regularly throughout the year. This is a great and affordable chance for any family in the area to have their children sailing in the best waters on the east coast.

FFSC are offering many facilities that are available to beginners, skilled dinghy and multihull sailors, yacht, powerboat cruisers and rowers or for those that just enjoy a drink and something to eat looking at the best views of the river Deben and the North Sea from the clubhouse.

FFSC offers many facilities that help you to get involved, they include (subject to Government guidelines): - Dinghy sailing with club racing on a Wednesday night throughout the summer months (starting just after Easter) and many Sunday morning trophy races. Great for all the family.

- Youth Sailing at Felixstowe Ferry for 10-18 year olds. Training and fun days arranged throughout the year.

- “Sailing in Company” where club members can sail with other members for fun. Great family day out. It’s designed for the more leisurely sailor and families. Sailing the beautiful river Deben, sometimes out along the coast and sometimes we have a BBQ or visit a public house along the Deben. We have full safety cover with trained powerboat drivers.

- “Hire a Dinghy” FFSC own a number of sailing dinghies that members can hire out on a case by case basis. Rates are affordable and you can use the dinghies for race or social sailing.

- Yacht sailing A lively and sociable cruising section for yacht owners and motor cruisers. Regular cruises organised both on local waters and further afield for longer adventures.

- RYA Sailing training, FFSC’s training centre is affiliated with the RYA and offers many sailing courses.

- RYA Power boat training which includes RYA levels 1&2 and safety boat courses.

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- RYA First Aid courses All training is available to both members and non-members.

- National championships & Open meetings FFSC hosts mono-hull and multi-hull sailing regattas regularly. FFSC invite sailors from all over the UK to participate.

- Lively Social calendar of themed dinner nights and regular events for club members and their friends and family throughout the year.

- Felixstowe Ferry Rowing Group (FFRG) Coastal rowing in a pilot gig (fixed seat rowing, 1 x cox and 6 x rowers) - “Art at the Ferry” where we have 25 local artists and crafts people that exhibitor their artwork. This year 2nd & 3rd April 2021 10am til 4pm.

- “Club open days” supported by the RYA, FFSC take novices out sailing & power boat rides. Dates to be arranged.

- Club Hire where the clubhouse is a fantastic venue for your wedding or party. An ideal setting with the best view of the River Deben and the North Sea. - Bar is well stocked with many other soft and alcoholic drinks.

- Galley offers tasty food at reasonable prices.

Want to be part of this great club?

Please email FFSC on enquiries@ffsc.co.uk or visit www.ffsc.co.uk for more information on how you can get involved.

Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club look forward to welcoming you all, when all this is over.

Stay safe and well.

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IN LATER LIFE

Worrying rise in anxiety and loss of motivation among older people A third of older people aged 60 and over are feeling more anxious and less motivated to do the things they enjoy since the start of the pandemic, according to a recent poll by Age UK. Age UK asked over 1,300 older people across the UK, how their health and mental wellbeing had changed in the last six months. The results revealed that large numbers of older people aged 60 and over are feeling more anxious: • 27% of older men and 40% of older women said they felt more anxious.

• 45% of older people with health conditions said they felt more anxious and 45% of older people advised to shield said they felt this way.

• 37% of people from lower social grades reported feeling more anxious, compared to 30% of those from higher social grades. When asked whether they were feeling a lack of motivation to do the things they would ordinarily enjoy, a similar trend emerged - with nearly half of those with health conditions reporting they lacked their usual motivation as well as 41% of people from lower social grades.

Age UK has also been hearing from older people who are struggling to get out of bed and dressed in the morning and say that they feel like every day is the same. Recent data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) is showing similarly worrying findings. They found that in Great Britain:

people know they do not have to cope alone and that the NHS is still there to support them with their mental health.”

While one in four older people were already living with a common mental health condition before the pandemic, Age UK studies show that many older people don’t seek professional help as they don’t want to worry people or think ‘they should just get on with it’ They may also think that depression is inevitable in later life and that there isn’t anything which can be done. This couldn’t be further from the truth, with older people actually more likely to recover from a mental health problem after accessing talking therapies than younger people.

Caroline continued, “Depression shouldn’t be seen as a normal part of ageing and we need to challenge the assumption that older people should just put up with it. It’s never too early or too late to seek professional help, and during this time it is vital that we all take steps to look after emotional wellbeing.”

These steps include: • Stay in touch and stay connected. If you are online then keep in touch with friends and family via Skype, or Whats App or by phone or digital messaging.

• 33% of people aged 60 and over are reporting high levels of anxiety

• Try to do something you enjoy every day and find things that make you laugh, such as humorous movies, books, or online videos. Keep going with hobbies and interests.

• 44% of people aged 60 and over are either uncomfortable or very uncomfortable leaving the house because of covid.

• Staying active can help to improve your mood – light exercise or even moving just a little bit more within your own capabilities can help.

• 43% of people aged 60 and over say that their well-being is being affected by the pandemic.

• Sign up to Age UK Befriending and Call in Time Services or Silverline services. They offer a friendship, a reassuring voice and clear information from trained staff on the support available to older people.

To help tackle these worrying findings, Age UK is working with NHS England to encourage older people to reach out for help if they are struggling to cope with their mental health as part of the Help Us Help You campaign which is launching soon. Not all those people who are feeling more anxious through the pandemic will go on to need professional support. The Every Mind Matters website provides useful self-help resources for mental health.

Talk about how you are feeling and if you are struggling to cope with your mental health speak to your GP. Visit nhs.uk/talk

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For those who would like professional help, NHS services are still open to support people with mental health concerns and it is important not to delay getting help. NHS talking therapy treatments (IAPT) have high success rates in treating older people experiencing anxiety and depression. Even though the pandemic has meant that face to face appointments may not always be possible- talking therapy treatments have adapted to continue digitally or over the phone with just as good a success rate. Older people can either get help by speaking to their GP or referring themselves directly to their local IAPT service.

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Caroline Abrahams, Age UK Charity Director, said, “The pandemic brought sudden changes to all of our lives and that has naturally affected our feelings and mood leaving many of us feeling low, panicky, frightened or having problems sleeping - and it doesn’t look like the virus is going away any time soon with numbers of infections increasing, and restrictions tightening again.

For some older people the next six months, coupled with the challenges that winter brings will be a terrifying prospect.

“Older people with depression and anxiety may not recognise the symptoms or they may not know what support is available. It is important that all older

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IN LATER LIFE

n Stowmarket care home team member wins prestigious national award A team member at a Stowmarket care home has received a Royal Humane Society Award after saving a member of the public’s life using skills she learnt at work.

Sophy Cobbold, part of the housekeeping team at Care UK’s

Cedrus House, on Bittern Crescent, was nominated for the resuscitation certificate after she successfully resuscitated a 30-year-old male who had collapsed in the street.

Using skills from basic life support training undertaken at Cedrus House, Sophy was able to help the man who then received hospital treatment and subsequently made a full recovery.

PC Will Thornett, an officer at the scene, was overwhelmed by Sophy’s quick, calm and effective response, and nominated her for the award.

He said, “I was very pleased to hear that Sophy would be receiving the award. She found herself in a serious and potentially traumatic situation, but stayed calm and

reacted by starting CPR and telling others to call for an ambulance. Her actions may well have saved the gentleman’s life and from speaking to him afterwards, I know he is immensely grateful.”

Sophy added, “I couldn’t believe it when I found out I would be receiving a resuscitation certificate from the Royal Humane Society. I went into action mode, like anyone would, and I’m thankful that I knew what to do in that situation. It just shows how important basic life support training can be.”

Michelle Webster, Home Manager at Cedrus House, commented, “We are incredibly proud of Sophy’s brave response, and her ability to think clearly in such a challenging and unprecedented situation.

“Being trained in basic life support is an invaluable skill, both in and outside of work, which is why each member of the team at Cedrus House has the opportunity to be trained, no matter their job role.

Sophy is not only an asset to us, but to the whole community, and we couldn’t be prouder to have her as part of the Cedrus House family.”

Cedrus House is a modern care home which provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable its residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema and hair salon, and there is plenty of space both in and outdoors for relaxation and recreation.

To find out more about Cedrus House, please contact customer relations manager, Julie Dennis, on 01449 797350 or email julie.dennis@careuk.com For general information please visit, careuk.com/care-homes/ cedrus-house

“Different” is the new normal for Oddfellows

Yes, 2021 has arrived, perhaps not with all guns blazing but certainly there were quite a few fireworks around!

We are familiar with the phrase "it's not the same" but actually life would be pretty boring if it was the same! Let's embrace the "different" in our lives and continue to share

friendship in whichever way we can.

The Ipswich Oddfellows has turned the “different” into positives with their continued online programme of social get-togethers. Whether you enjoy an informal chat, quizzes, word games, exercise or talks; there’s something for all tastes.

We may be in lockdown but you don’t have to be locked-out.

There are national events too, so you can connect with members and friends from across the country.

EVERY WEDNESDAY at 11am. An ideal opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new ones.

EVERY THURSDAY at 2pm Every week will feature a different fun activity led by one of our experienced social organisers.

For all our non-Oddfellows readers, you’re probably thinking “How I can I get some of this?”

The Oddfellows have a “Open Doors” event organised for everyone who’d like to have more information about this friendly-society.

14

You can register your interest at www.oddfellows.co.uk/news/ourvirtual-doors-are-open. The next event is on Thursday 25th February at 7pm. Otherwise you can email ipswich.branch@oddfellows.co.uk for more information. Or call the national enquiry line on 0800 028 1810.

Membership starts from £25 pa.

Maybe 2020 didn't live up to our expectations but if we take the positives from it, and add the hopes of 2021, we can build a bright and friendly future.

Let’s pull together, positive and keep safe.

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Hearing is essential.

Improve yours in 2021. n If these past months have taught us anything, it’s the importance of staying connected, safe and informed — and hearing is key to all three!

Hearing well makes it easier to stay in touch with friends and family, it helps you feel safe, healthy and in control of your life and hearing helps ensure you stay up to date on ever-hanging news and information. Sometimes however it can be hard to tell if you're losing your hearing and other people may notice it before you do.

Hearing loss is sometimes sudden, but more often it happens gradually and you may not notice it at first. Early signs can include difficulty in hearing other people clearly and misunderstanding what they say, especially in noisy places. Do you find yourself asking people to repeat themselves or listening to music or watching TV with the volume higher than other people need? Difficulty hearing on the phone, finding it hard to keep up with a conversation, or feeling tired or stressed from having to concentrate while listening can all be other indicators.

Recent research has also shown that not addressing hearing loss can also have wider health risks with untreated hearing loss in middle age leading to increased risk of cognitive decline and early onset dementia. One study, published in The Lancet, highlighted a new diagnosis in people aged 45 to 65 more than doubled their chances of developing the condition. This rises

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n Simon Myhill RHAD FdSc FSHAA, Audiologist & Clinical Lead, The Hearing Care Centre.

to three times if the hearing loss is considered to be ‘moderate’, and five times as great if it is severe.

While society seems to accept that hearing loss is part of getting older, 4 in 10 people over 50 and 7 in 10 over the age of 70* have some form of loss, it doesn’t mean we have to live with its consequences or that nothing can be done to help. In fact, by addressing hearing needs, it could be argued that you are actively keeping yourself younger.

If you suspect that you may have a hearing loss making an appointment with a qualified audiologist can quickly get you on a new path to improved hearing. A one hour investment of your time may be the best thing you do this year to improve the quality of your life.

With 28 centres across Suffolk and Norfolk arranging a hearing test with the award winning Hearing Care Centre is easy so book your appointment today.

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Caring is at the heart of everything we do...

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IN LATER LIFE

The rise of dipping into pension pots

n Due to COVID-19, many people’s incomes have been significantly reduced and for those 55 or over, taking money out of their pension pot seemed like a quick cashflow solution.

But there are complex tax rules around pension withdrawals, not to mention the risks of depleting a pot that was intended to provide an income throughout their retirement too quickly, and so we would urge anyone doing so to ensure they are aware of the potential consequences.

TOP 5 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE WITHDRAWING MONEY FROM YOUR PENSION 1.

Pensions

freedoms:

Familiarise yourself with the pensions freedoms so you are aware of your options. You can now do a lot more with your pension pot than previously. Everyone is different and it is important to find the right solution for your circumstances.

2.

Saving

requirements:

Consider the amount of money you will need each month to maintain your lifestyle. Ask yourself: How

pension before retirement age.

Try asking yourself the following questions: How long will I need my money to last? How long do I want to keep working? How much tax might I pay? How much do I want to leave behind?

GUIDANCE TO ENABLE YOU TO MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION much might I need? Do I still have a mortgage to pay off? What other sources of income do I have, and do I need my pension to keep up with inflation? Could I consider working for longer? Do I want to have annual holidays?

3. Costs later in retirement:

Think about costs later in your retirement. What will your future living costs be? Care needs are not a subject we are comfortable thinking about but it is important to have conversations with your family,

as well as Powers of Attorney, Wills and inheritance.

4. Life expectancy: We often vastly underestimate this, but evidence shows we are living longer, with a growing variation in healthy life expectancy. If you have a partner, do you need to provide for them financially after you die?

5. Time to talk to us? Few of us may expect to give up work altogether in our 50s. But a growing number of us are dipping into our

Whether you have plans to retire completely or want to scale down your work hours there are now more options than ever when thinking about making your savings work for you. If you are considering accessing your pension it is essential that you receive professional financial guidance to enable you to make an informed decision. If you get it wrong you could end up with a large unexpected tax bill. To discuss your situation — we’re here to help you.

• Article supplied by Woodward Markwell.

Would you like to enjoy your retirement without having to worry about your finances?

To claim your free financial health check with one of our expert independent financial advisers contact us today.

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AT HOME

Hospice Christmas campaign a success thanks to community St Elizabeth Hospice is thanking the local community for helping its Christmas campaign, Be a Star, raise £77,000.

From Felixstowe and Ipswich through to Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft, supporters rallied round the independent Suffolk charity by supporting its Be a Star appeal.

Given the current restrictions, the appeal encouraged the communities of Norfolk and Suffolk to support the hospice over the festive period by hosting their own socially distanced fundraising activities or through donating directly to the hospice.

Of the total raised, £13,000 was donated by businesses, across the region, as part of a Matched Giving scheme. A week long fundraiser which saw businesses, including Energy Power Resources, Escape Ipswich and George Baker Shipping, match every £1 donated by the community to the Be a Star appeal.

Pauline Donkin, Head of Individual Giving and Supporter Care at St Elizabeth Hospice, said, “We are so grateful for the fantastic response we have received for Be a Star.

“With the ongoing pandemic putting a halt to our usual fundraising streams, including our retail shops and events such as the Christmas Day Dip, the generosity of the public and local businesses has been so important in helping us to continue our care and services.

“Christmas is a special time for everyone but especially for the families and patients we care for. Illness doesn’t stop during the festive season and via our Ipswich inpatient unit, our nurses in the community and six specialist palliative care beds in Beccles we supported hundreds of patients and their families this Christmas. A service we would not be able to provide without

the continued support we receive from local communities.”

Every Christmas, St Elizabeth Hospice provides vital care for people living with progressive and life-limiting illnesses and their families across East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney, for many of whom it is their last Christmas spent together.

This year’s fantastic total surpassed the hospice’s 2019 Care at Christmas campaign and helped St Elizabeth Hospice care for more than 850 patients and their families across Suffolk.

Ian Mundford, Financial Director at Bauder, who were one of a number of local companies supporting the Be a Star appeal, said, “As a long term supporter of the hospice, which means so much to many of our Ipswich based employees, we had no hesitation in stepping forward and supporting this brilliant campaign at the end of such a challenging year in terms of fundraising and increased demands upon the invaluable Pic: Mike Kwasniak services it provides in our community.

“Everyone at Bauder was delighted to be able to play a part in the success of the campaign!”

St Elizabeth Hospice is an independent Suffolk charity providing free services to improve life for people living with a progressive or life limiting illness throughout East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.

Centered on an individual’s needs, the hospice provides specialist support, whenever and wherever it is needed, whether at home, in the community or at the hospice.

To find out more about St Elizabeth Hospice call 01473 727776 or visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk.

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New book features Ipswich’s connection with King Henry VIII A new book by Paul Kendall entitled Henry VIII in 100 Objects has been recently published by Frontline Books / Pen & Sword Books.

Henry VIII had several connections with Suffolk and our county town of Ipswich and many of these are featured in the book along with some beautiful images.

Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey was born in Ipswich between 1470 and 1473.

A statue commemorates Wolsey in St Peter’s Street, Ipswich, close to the site of the house where he was born.

Wolsey rose to prominence from humble origins to become a reliable political advisor to Henry VIII. He excelled as a scholar at Oxford University and after graduation he took holy orders. Rising through the Church he became Chaplain to Henry VII in 1507 and soon later became the King’s Almoner, responsible for distributing food and money to the poor on behalf of the King. During the early years of his reign, Henry VIII became aware of Wolsey’s abilities and potential in 1511, when he was appointed to the Privy Council, performing the role of Royal Secretary. Wolsey was conscientious, charismatic, witty and intelligent which enamoured him to the King, but he was also ambitious, avaricious and was enthusiastic to advance further.

Once Henry VIII recognised his value, Wolsey’s rise within the court was the most expedient of any subject during his reign, for during 1514 he was appointed Bishop of Lincoln and Tournai, as well as Archbishop of York. In 1515, Pope Leo X made Wolsey a Cardinal and Henry VIII appointed him as Lord Chancellor. Wolsey continued to work hard for his king.

However, there were members of the court, from noble birth who resented Wolsey’s rapid rise. The King was allowing a person of humble origins to play a role in state decisions and the governing of the country.

Wolsey enjoyed a life of affluence that surpassed the King. He acquired a 99-year lease from the Knights Hospitallers on the manor house at Hampton during the spring 1515, which was demolished and rebuilt into a large double-courtyard house which is now known as Hampton Court Palace. It was here that Wolsey established a home that would rival the King’s.

Wolsey received unprecedented power over the Church of England, and also held an ambition that one

day he would become Pope, but that ambition was never fulfilled.

As work on Wolsey’s Hampton Court Palace was completed, Henry realised that it was more magnificent than his own palaces and after hints, Wolsey presented it to the King in June 1525. During that same year, Wolsey founded Cardinals College in Oxford, financed from income generated from dissolved monasteries. He also established a college in his hometown at Ipswich.

On 26th May 1528, Henry VIII empowered Cardinal Wolsey to ‘supress the priory of St Peter’s in Ipswich, which was positioned in the street where Wolsey was born, and to convert the priory into a college’. The gate and the worn arms of Wolsey’s Coat of Arms is all that remains of Wolsey’s College in College Street, Ipswich. It was known as the Water Gate and was built to serve as an entrance for visitors arriving at the college from the River Orwell, which in Tudor times it was much wider and passed close to the college and the adjacent St Peter-by-theWaterfront Church. Construction of the school ceased when Wolsey fell from the King’s favour and in 1532, building material, including lead, masonry and timber were relocated to London where it was used to expand Wolsey’s London residence, York House, which would later be known as Whitehall when Henry VIII took possession.

During 1527, Henry was resided to the fact that he could never conceive a son, a male heir with Katherine. Exploring ways of breaking his marriage with his first wife, he therefore confided to

Wolsey about his manifested doubts about the validity of his marriage to Katherine, believing that by marrying his brother’s widow, that he had committed a sin and that his inability to produce a male heir was evidence of God’s disapproval. Wolsey played a prominent role in this issue. Seeking an annulment from the Pope would prove futile, because he was being held a prisoner by Emperor Charles V and while in this situation, the Pope would not grant Henry an annulment, because the Emperor was Katherine’s nephew. Wolsey failed to obtain Henry’s annulment.

Wolsey was not welcomed at court and went to Cawood Castle where in November 1530, he was arrested for high treason, accused of enlisting support from foreign powers to further his own personal advantage and for engaging in secret correspondence with the Vatican. As he was being escorted to London for his eventual execution,

AT HOME

the ill Wolsey died at Leicester Abbey on 29th November 1530. Wolsey was buried in Leicester Abbey without ceremony at midnight on the day that he died. It was only after his death, Henry realised that Wolsey had carried the burdens of state, and appreciated his abilities as an administrator and organiser.

Henry VIII in 100 Objects gives the reader a fascinating insight of the life of Henry VIII and the amazing amount of traces from Tudor times that can still be seen today.

• Henry VIII in 100 Objects by Paul Kendall is available at all good book shops

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AT HOME

n How Lockdown has changed us

Millions of families are now sharing the household chores following a change in domestic life under lockdown, research has revealed.

A survey of 2,000 UK adults revealed 27 per cent have made positive changes since the beginning of the pandemic that they want to keep up long-term.

For one in 10, the lockdown has seen the laborious task of housework become more of a joint effort - with vacuuming, cooking and tidying the most popular shared chores. And 15 per cent said the changes at home have led to them being more creative in the kitchen.

The report revealed almost six in 10

adults are spending an average of more than seven-and-a-half hours extra at home each day compared to a year ago - equating to more than two extra days per week.

This has created positive shifts in dynamics in households - which experts predict could remain for the long-term.

The research was commissioned by home appliance manufacturer Whirlpool Corporation, which teamed up with Meik Wiking, CEO of The Happiness Research Institute, to examine the findings.

Meik said, “When the world feels chaotic, we often look for shelter and comfort in our homes as somewhere we can control. That’s

never been more true than over the last few months.

“Looking ahead to 2021, we might not be able to keep up all the good hobbies we’ve picked up, but I think the understanding that happiness is homemade is here to stay.”

The study also found that more than a fifth of respondents felt the past 10 months had left them feeling closer to friends and family.

The most popular reason for this is because people now value their time together more, while 18 per cent put it down to exercising or learning skills together.

Whirlpool Corporation is launching ‘Improving Life At Home’ an online hub, which brings expert advice

together with tips from happiness expert Meik Wiking.

Eleanor Reece, senior director of global campaigns at Whirlpool Corporation, said, “Amidst the hardships, challenges and uncertainty that have come in 2020, it’s been heartening to see some silver linings as new dynamics and habits emerge in homes everywhere.

“We want to play our part in helping people keep those up, which is why we’ve launched this online hub, which brings together the best of our company’s advice-led content to help people make the most of life at home.”

Your windows could save you money Wouldn’t it be great if you could save some of your hard earned cash by reducing your energy bills?

If your home is loosing heat through both the windows and your roof, then this wasted energy could be costing you pounds, plus it also isn’t that great for the environment either.

The British Fenestration Rating Council states: 'If you live in a single glazed house and install Energy Efficient Windows, you could reduce the energy you use by 0.30 tonnes or 18% - almost reaching the Government target of 20% reduction per household.’

So, what can you do?

It does not cost the earth to be energy efficient at Eastern Counties Home improvements Ltd. As they do not produce dramatic television campaigns, they can supply energy efficient windows for a much lower cost than many of the national double-glazing companies and are the perfect place for roofing solutions. And, they have a wide selection of styles on offer enabling you to

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choose a style that is perfect for your home. Whatever your requirements are, Eastern Counties Home improvements Ltd have the double glazing window solutions to solve them.

Single glazed windows, or those installed before April 2002, could be losing heat and therefore money. Switching to energy efficient windows can save energy and reduce your heating bills by up to £461.00 per year A staggering 25%-30% of heat lost from houses is through the windows, from the homeowners point of view lost heat equates to lost money and to the environment it means more carbon is released as a result of higher fuel use.

Replacing wooden windows with energy efficient A rated PVC-u windows could save you a small fortune on your heating costs as well as reducing noise, draughts and condensation Windows are now rated in the same way as electrical appliances with an A, B, C etc rating to indicate energy usage. The energy rating is determined the 'U' Value which is a measure of how well heat passes through a material.

The lower the 'U' Value the greater the resistance to heat flows and therefore the better the insulating qualities.

Eastern Counties Home improvements Ltd’s well engineered A rated windows achieve a U Value of 1.4W/m²K and will reduce energy consumption while looking good for years to come. They provide A rated energy efficient windows for no additional cost so you can minimise your impact on the environment while both saving money and enhancing the appearance of your home.

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AT HOME

The colours of 2021 Warming and optimistic but also practical and comforting, the Pantone Colour of the Year 2021 highlights two colours that demonstrate strength and positivity. Rebecca Snowden, Interior Style Advisor at Furniture And Choice (FurnitureChoice.co.uk), shares five interior style ideas on how to use this aspirational combination in the home.

1.Mid-century inspired living space

Design a thoughtful and stylish mid-century inspired living space by pairing Ultimate Gray and Illuminating to get a timeless and uplifting palette.

“Start with a grey sofa as a grounding base. Look for a structured profile with gentle curves and raised, tapered feet that are hallmarks of the style,” advises Rebecca.

Introduce accents of Illuminating through accessories like pillows and artwork. Fun, thematic pieces like a sunburst rattan mirror can also help to visually brighten the space. “Grey is reassuring and perennial, and when paired with Illuminating in a mid-century style space, it results in a warm and inviting palette full of charisma,” Rebecca says.

2.Sunny coastal vibes in the bedroom

Cheerful and vivacious, Illuminating is a warm yellow imbued with sunny goodness for a positive boost in the bedroom. Pair with the soothing tones of Ultimate Gray to get a breezy and relaxing, sunny coastal style.

“An oak wood bed, especially one with a slatted headboard, instantly channels a coastal vibe. Stick to a light palette with white, Ultimate Gray and Illuminating for a simple and sweet scheme to keep warm weather feels going long after summer,” she advises.

Accessorise with natural materials like jute or rattan, linen, wool and fresh flowers. And to play up the coastal look, consider having beach-themed art or pillowcases with a striped pattern.

3.Bright & creative home office

When used in a home office, the Pantone Colour of the Year 2021 combination of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating is practical and thoughtful, but also optimistic and inviting.

“The bright hue of Illuminating is energising and brings clarity - a helpful quality in a space where you need to focus,” explains Rebecca. Meanwhile, Ultimate Gray acts as a calming counterpart, grounding one in the moment and encouraging feelings of composure, steadiness and resilience.

“If it’s a bit challenging to find a bright yellow chair, one idea is to get a white wooden one and paint it yourself as a fun DIY,” suggests Rebecca.

Ensure sufficient lighting and decorate with live plants to freshen up the space; greenery can also help to soothe tired eyes.

5.Calm & serene open plan kitchen

The aspirational and hopeful qualities of the colour combination is enhanced when bountiful natural daylight is available. Even when used in smaller doses, the two tones create a calm and serene space.

“Both the Pantone colours work amazingly well with an oak dining set too. Their warm undertones resonate with the wood’s warmth to create a soothing and inviting feeling,” Rebecca says.

Maintain the airy palette with small touches of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating while playing up texture - the contrast between fresh flowers, natural oak and velvet chairs bring a sensual richness and add depth to the space.

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4.Fresh & modern industrial style dining space

For a fresh take on a modern dining room, introduce Ultimate Gray in the form of an industrial dining set. Then, accent the space with Illuminating for a zing of energy and brightness.

“A concrete dining set is a stylish way to bring the colour to life, while also highlighting its sturdy quality of quiet assurance,” says Rebecca.

“Keep decorations to a minimum, as is characteristic of the style, and focus instead on bringing in thoughtful pops of Illuminating. Fresh flowers in a minimal vase or displaying lemons in a bowl are some ideas.”

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AT HOME

At gardencourses.com they’ve been catching up with their members and experts to see what’s happening in the garden world right now. How will people use their gardens in 2021?

Time out gardens

Many of us are working from home and will pop into the garden for some time out during lunch and quick breaks away from our screens. Going outside can top up our Vitamin D levels which doctors are concerned we may be low on following lockdowns and increased amounts of time at home. Gardens can play an important role in keeping us healthy.

Gardens of fascination

Gardens that are high in biodiversity can offer more opportunities for ‘soft fascination’. Soft fascination is the term psychologists use to describe the process of switching off and becoming engrossed in our surroundings, which can lower stress. Experts recommend planting a wide range of plants, thus creating more opportunities to engage with the garden and with the visiting wildlife.

Gardens to produce basic, staple food crops

Sometimes we grow our own food in case of disruption to the supply of our favourite fruit and veg or to cut down on our food bills. Growing basic staples even in small gardens, such as herb and salad leaf crops and quick and easy crops like spring onions, tomatoes and leafy greens can help reduce food costs. But more of us are growing our own crops because we know where our food is coming from, we can have these basics on hand without

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having to go shopping and it cuts down on packaging and food miles. It’s good fun too!

Growing a garden from scratch

With more people turning to gardening for the first time with limited budgets this could be the year we create a garden from seeds and cuttings. The satisfaction of growing our own trees, shrubs and perennials from scratch and watching our plants develop and mature is coming back, in a big way.

Slow gardening

The movement to grow our own garden from simple beginnings, whether it’s for food or flowers, ties in with a connection to nature that engages us with the seasons. We’re slowing down and observing the rhythm of the seasons as we watch our gardens grow.

Gardens for fun

Our gardens are our own canvas where we can express our individuality; through the use of striking colour themes, creating home-made pieces of art, craft and DIY construction projects, garden areas for children, pet play areas etc. Every season brings a new opportunity and whatever we choose to do it benefits our health and humour as well as that of our families and wildlife.

Front gardening

Not everyone has a garden but everyone can benefit from each other’s front gardens. Gardeners are finding new uses for their front gardens to raise everyone’s spirits with wildlife meadows, new tree planting, plant swaps at the gate and growing veg together. Whatever we decide to do in our front gardens we can all share this with our families and our neighbourhood.

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Proof greener front gardens reduce stress

Including a few plants in a bare front garden could reduce your stress levels as much as eight weekly mindfulness sessions, new research by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and a collaboration of Universities (Sheffield, Westminster and Virginia) has shown.

Researchers have found that a greener front garden can also make you feel happier, more relaxed and closer to nature.

The four year scientific research project added ornamental plants to previously bare front gardens in economically deprived streets of Salford (Greater Manchester). Forty two residents received: one tree (juniper or snowy mespilus), one shrub (azalea), one climber (clematis), sub-shrubs (lavender, rosemary), bulbs (daffodils, crocuses, snowdrops) and bedding plants (petunia, viola) to fill two containers. The experimental design included a control group who received the plants one year later.

By measuring the residents’ concentrations of cortisol hormone before and after the plants were added, the research team were able to see if the greenery had any impact on stress levels. Cortisol levels change across the day. In healthy diurnal patterns, levels peak in the early morning shortly after awakening and drop to the lowest concentration at night. Steeper daily declines indicate more effective regulation of circadian and hormonal mechanisms, which is a likely consequence of reduced stress.

Before the experiment, only 24% of residents had healthy cortisol patterns.

Over the course of the year following the plantings, this increased to 53% of residents having healthy cortisol patterns.

Perceived stress levels decreased by 6% after the introduction of the plants.

Over half (52%) of the residents said their front garden helped them be happier, 40% said it helped them be more relaxed and over one in four (26%) said it helped them be closer to nature.

Dr Lauriane Suyin Chalmin-Pui, who conducted the research as part of her PhD and who is now an RHS Wellbeing Fellow, said, “We can now further evidence the vital need to incorporate plants into our front gardens and domestic spaces. This will require a change in the way we strategise, design, plan and build our living spaces.

“The stress reduction data is startling, in that we found such a significant response with just a relatively small number of plants. Now we know that access to even a tiny patch of nature has beneficial effects for our health.

“Re-greening our neighbourhoods is really important. This data supplements other studies where we know garden plants help mitigate flooding, encourage biodiversity, reduce air pollution, as well as improve our health and wellbeing. We must reverse the trend to pave over our front gardens entirely, as it is possible to combine attractive, beneficial plantings with car parking space.

“Since I started this research, it’s been fascinating to see how adding plants to front gardens really did have a transformative effect on residents’ lives.

Residents suffering from loneliness and other mental health issues found it especially uplifting and motivational.

AT HOME

One resident said that greening up the front gardens gave him pride not just of his house, but of the whole area. Another said that just looking at the colours of the plants made her feel brighter in herself.”

Professor Alistair Griffiths (RHS) added, “With so many millions more people gardening after discovering a passion to grow during lockdown, the RHS hopes this research inspires more people to plant a few plants, from containers and window boxes to hedges and trees, in their street-side outside spaces.

“When we started this research four years ago and I first started thinking about it, the world was a very different place. Today life is even more stressful for so many, meaning the results of this experiment are more important than ever. This research highlights the essential role of private gardens and the horticulture and landscape industry in delivering natural capital that improves the health of our nation. Together we should all try to make a positive difference one plant at a time.”

Dr Ross Cameron (University of Sheffield) finished, “This is an instrumental piece of research in that it ties in the very positive emotions people have with plants and gardens, with physiological health measures. It strengthens the evidence that gardening and ready access to green space are vital components in relieving stress and promoting positive mental health in our urban communities.”

• Visit www.rhs.org.uk/garden-inspiration/garden-types/front-gardens for ideas for parking and plants in front gardens.

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AT HOME

Stuck in a rut over meals

More than half of Brits are ‘stuck in a rut’ when it comes to mealtimes – eating just six different meals on a loop.

A study of 2,000 adults found 59 per cent tend to cook the same dishes and rotate them throughout the week.

And 46 per cent even stick to the repetitive foods on specific days. The most common teatime treats include spaghetti Bolognese, fish and chips and curry.

More than a quarter admitted they’d like to reshape their mealtime habits in 2021, but barriers include a lack of time, budget and low cooking skills.

Simon Langley at KitchenAid UK & Ireland, which commissioned the

24

research, said, “It’s easy to get stuck into a simple routine when it comes to food and it can be difficult to find inspiration or motivation to mix things up.

“It’s encouraging to see people want to reshape their habits and what better time than in a new year?

Eating more creative, healthy and flavoursome dishes doesn’t have to be complex or time consuming. A little determination, some basic tips and the right appliances can help develop better eating habits and create nutritious and delicious meals.”

The study also found a roast dinner, pizza and stir fry are popular go-to dishes. On average, an evening meal takes 40 minutes to cook and 59 per cent said what they choose to eat is often dictated by how much time they have.

Brits typically describe their current diet as repetitive (30 per cent), basic (28 per cent) and unimaginative (13 per cent) But instead, they would prefer it to be healthier (43 per cent), flavoursome (31 per cent) and exciting (25 per cent).

More than two thirds also admitted their typical food shop consists of the same ingredients week in week out, with 17 per cent

TOP 30 MEALS BRITS COOK ON ROTATION:

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5. Fish and chips finding it difficult to change their mealtime habits. Despite this, a 6. Curry quarter would like their mealtimes 7. Jacket potato to be more rewarding and 30 per 8.

Stir fry cent are also keen to improve their cooking skills in order to reshape 9. Sausage and mash their diet.

10. Shepherd’s pie And a tenth of those polled via 11. Lasagne OnePoll are more likely to stick to a new eating plan if it is ‘easy’. Of 12. Soup those who have tried a new year’s 13. Chili con carne diet in the past, more than half were 14. Chicken and rice unsuccessful and put this down to struggling to know what to cook 15. Burgers / veggie burgers (32 per cent), not having the time 16. Casserole to fully commit (29 per cent) and 17. Omelette simply finding it ‘boring’ (34 per cent).

18. Stew KitchenAid teamed up with chef 19. Steak and food writer, John Gregory 20. Salmon Smith, to create some exciting spins on two of the top 10 meals 21. Meatballs Brits cook on rotation - a roast 22. Pork chops dinner and fish and chips.

John said, “It’s so easy to get 23. Breaded chicken stuck in a rut when cooking and if 24. Beans on toast you want to get something on the 25.

Pasta bake table quickly you’re just going to do what you know. Time is one of 26. Pie the key constraints when it comes 27. Salad to cooking, we all lead busy lives 28.

Fajitas and sometimes food can be bottom of the pile – but you can 29. Fishcakes always make something amazing 30. Macaroni cheese in minutes.”

AT HOME

Great Reader Offer + Prize Competition Colouring isn’t just for children, it’s a great and relaxing activity for anyone of any age, including adults.

The Eggnogg Colour-in giant poster / tablecloths are a fun-filled colouring-in craft activity for all ages and all occasions. It’s ideal for children’s parties, as well as weddings and other celebrations, holidays, rainy days and playtime anytime, and the perfect antidote to all that screen time. Let Eggnogg Colour-in bring a little calm into the day - and if the kids are kept busy, the grown-ups can have some down time and enjoy colouring-in therapy too!

The Countryside Poster Tablecloth is the latest in a range of options on offer from Eggnogg and sells for just £10. Full of fabulous flora and fauna from the British countryside, this Eggnogg poster / tablecloth has animals, birds, insects, flowers and plants, as well as country cottages, castles and landmarks.

Unlike most ‘giant’ colouring-in posters on the market this really is a Giant coming in at 1270mm x 950mm, it folds into a small (250mm x 150mm), lightweight and beautifully presented in a carton that’s easy to carry or pop in the post – the perfect present.

Suitable for coloured pencils, crayons, pastels, chalks, paints and felt tips. It works equally well as a tablecloth, poster and playmat, and even as wrapping paper.

Eggnogg are offering Ipswich24 readers 10% off all products via their website www.eggnogg.co.uk , just enter discount code 2021OFF at the checkout.

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To be in with a chance of winning this amazing prize just send your answer to the following question, along with your name, address and a daytime contact telephone number to: Eggnogg Competition, Ipswich24, 12A Britannia Road, Ipswich, IP4 4PE or you can enter online at www.ipswich24.co.uk.

The closing date for entries is Friday 26th February 2021.

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Earlier this year Ipswich Borough Council pledged to plant trees in public spaces across Ipswich as a way to encourage residents to opt for online council tax bills.

Since the campaign launched over 6,000 residents have signed up for paperless billing. As a result 60 trees will be planted across four Ipswich parks – Castle Hill, Stonelodge, Dumbarton Road and Orwell Country Park.

The first 30 trees were planted in Castle Hill park just before Christmas by the Borough's rangers, who were joined by councillors Sophie Meudec and Christine Shaw. Ten of the trees were a combination of Suffolk and Essex apple trees which will in the future produce fruits.

The initiative aims to support Ipswich Borough Council’s pledge to be carbon neutral by 2030 and to promote the benefits which planting trees brings to communities improving the local area.

Cllr Sophie Meudec, Portfolio Holder for Communities, said, “This initiative was a way for all of our residents to reduce their paper footprint and improve their local communities. The benefits of planting trees and their impact on our wellbeing and the environment are well known and this initiative is just one of many that supports our ambition to become carbon neutral by 2030.”

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AT HOME

n New farmyard themed play area for Ipswich park Ipswich Borough Council has started work on building a new play area at Ipswich’s Alexandra Park.

The inclusive play area, for children aged two to 12 years old, will have a ‘farmyard’ theme complete with a tractor and haybarn.

The new play area will be relocated near the central path that cuts through the park – opposite the African garden – to help improve access and visibility, meaning the existing play area can remain open while work is carried out. Work will begin next week, with the Council stressing all workers will follow strict social distancing guidelines.

Councillor Phil Smart, Portfolio Holder for Parks at Ipswich Borough Council, said, “This new play area will bring a new lease of life

to the park and we look forward to revealing the final result in the spring. It will include fun farm themed elements and inclusive play equipment so all children can enjoy it.

“Outdoor play is extremely beneficial to the physical health and wellbeing of children and we are pleased that we are able to keep the existing play area open while work is carried out. I would however like to stress that users of the play area need to follow social distancing guidelines, sanitise their hands regularly and come back later if it’s too busy to help people keep their distance from each other.”

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It will also feature graphics to encourage imaginative play, swings, seesaws and springers, as well as a sensory and quiet play section.

It is expected the project will be completed in spring 2021. However, the timescale could change depending on the weather and any alterations to lockdown and social distancing guidelines.

Local BBC radio has been the friend, agony aunt and shoulder to lean on for many listeners throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. And now as schools are back to online learning, it’s time to be there again by relaunching the Make a Difference: Give a Laptop campaign to help provide access to laptops and devices for youngsters in need.

With many receiving new laptops and tablets as Christmas gifts, old devices are likely to be discarded or thrown away. But instead of them going to waste or gathering dust in households up and down the country, local BBC radio is once again asking the public to donate their unwanted items to help pupils still in need of a digital device.

All local radio stations have launched the campaign by providing details of specialist charities across the country that will safely wipe donated devices before distributing them to local schools. Listeners can search for a charity nearby via the BBC Make a Difference website to ensure that their donated devices reach the young people that need them the most in their local area.

Chris Burns, Head of BBC Local Radio comments, “Community is at the heart of everything we do across local BBC radio and I am so proud that our teams are once again uniting communities through this fantastic initiative.

“Everyone has a right to education and it has never been more important for all children to have access to the same opportunities. Throughout the pandemic our listeners have shown time and again just how big an impact we can all make, and by coming together once more to donate unwanted laptops, tablets and devices we will be able to help many more schools and families in need.”

• For more information on how you can get involved in the BBC’s Make A Difference: Give a Laptop project, visit the Make A Difference website and click on the Give a Laptop tab. https://bbc.in/3qv9jsj

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Car park prangs costing motorists £1.5bn a year n A study revealed 11 per cent, or 3.74 million, of drivers have seriously damaged their own car while looking for a space to park over the past 12 months.

On average they have been left with a whopping £396 repair bill to fix their mishap.

The research by ŠKODA UK revealed 40 per cent of drivers have hit a lamppost, tree or space divider in a car park. Four in 10 of the 2,000 UK motorists polled also admitted they had accidentally hit another car with their door when they were getting out of their vehicle. And over the past year the average driver has heard the painful sound of their wheels scraping against a kerb on two occasions – causing irritating scuffs and scratches on their alloys.

But despite the number of red-faced motorists admitting to errors, 73 per cent regard themselves as good parkers. However, just 53 per cent are confident they’d be good enough at parking to satisfy an instructor if they re-took their driving test.

A spokesperson for ŠKODA, said, “While many people feel confident in their parking capabilities the numbers show motorists have forked out significant sums in the last 12 months repairing their cars from parking mishaps.

“The advanced technology on our cars means they no longer have to do the parking themselves.

“Driver aids, such as the Park Assist function on our Kodiaq family SUV, help reduce stress around parking and should see the number of parking prangs decrease so Brits won’t be hurt where it hurts most - in the pocket.” ŠKODA conducted the research to highlight a number of clever features on its large family SUV, Kodiaq, which will help to bring an end to frustrating car park bloopers.

Notable features include Park Assist, where the car will park itself, and door edge protection – a protector that slides out automatically as the door is opened ensuring damage doesn’t occur to the driver’s car or cars in close proximity.

The survey also revealed the tension caused by parking - with 19 per cent confessing to having an argument with another motorist or bystander because of a parking disagreement. And 14 per cent have even temporarily stopped talking to their other half after having an argument because of a parking issue.

For the rowing couples this has happened six times on average over the past 12 months, with the silent treatment typically lasting for six-and-a-half hours.

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One in five parents also said they’re frequently distracted by their children when they’re trying to park.

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POTHOLES: Still a gripe with drivers Despite a dramatic fall in car use seen during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, the poor state of local roads is officially the UK’s most widespread motoring concern in 2020, according to research carried out for the RAC’s annual Report on Motoring.

Some 38% of 3,068 drivers surveyed – representing the equivalent of 15.2m people – listed the condition and maintenance of local roads as a concern, up from 33% in 2019, putting it ahead of other issues such as drivers using handheld phones, the poor standard of other motorists’ driving and the aggressive behaviour of other drivers.

This year’s research highlighted a noticeable increase in the number of drivers who say local roads have deteriorated with 52% saying conditions are worse than 12 months ago. Only 6% of drivers think the state of local roads has improved.

These national findings correlate with the RAC’s own data which shows that the third quarter of 2020 – July, August and September – saw 1,871 call-outs for damaged shock absorbers, broken suspension springs or distorted wheels – breakdowns that are most likely to have been caused by poor road surfaces. This is the highest third-quarter percentage of all RAC breakdowns seen since 2015.

The Pothole Index, which is the RAC’s most

28

accurate long-term indicator of the health of the UK’s roads, now stands at 1.57. This means drivers are nearly 1.6 times as likely to suffer a pothole-related breakdown as they would have been in 2006 when the data was first analysed in this way. While this is the lowest figure seen since Q1 2008 – the point at which a marked decline in the quality of the UK’s began – it unfortunately ends a steady reduction in the index which started to fall from 2.67 in Q2 2018. The index’s all-time high figure was 3.5 in Q1 2010 following a very cold early winter.

Those based in rural areas are more likely to say local roads have worsened (59%), as are older drivers.

For the overwhelming majority who say conditions have deteriorated, problems with road surfaces, such as potholes, remains the numberone gripe for 97% of drivers. But in the past 12 months there has also been a sharp increase in complaints related to other factors such as the visibility of signage (cited by 46% of drivers in 2020, compared with just 17% a year ago), the amount of roadside litter (35%, up from 23%) and a lack of grass and/or foliage maintenance (34% up from 22%).

RAC head of roads policy Nicholas Lyes said, “These findings are a big concern given that last year’s relatively mild winter should not, in normal circumstances, have led to a further decline in

road surface quality. Usually, RAC patrols see the fewest number of pothole-related breakdowns in the third quarter which coincides with the summer, with volumes having dropped steadily from the high point recorded in the first three months of the year. This normally correlates with councils carrying out work to repair potholes in early spring that have appeared over the winter.

“But, faced with the early stages of the pandemic, local authorities might not have been able to keep up their planned maintenance programmes, possibly due to staffing issues, and local roads suffered as a consequence. This also calls into question just how much progress has actually been made in fixing the 11 million ‘nuisance’ potholes cited by transport secretary Grant Shapps in May. On the flipside, with less traffic, there was perhaps a far better opportunity for councils to fix the roads than in previous years, so we were pleased to see that several local authorities did just that “It’s also important to point out that our Report on Motoring research was conducted before the reopening of schools in September – a development that has led to a rise in vehicle use and possibly to further degradation of unrepaired road surfaces.”

• To report a pothole, or to find out if you can claim for compensation, visit the RAC’s pothole online guide at www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/road-safety/ report-a-pothole/

Two-in-five motorists will never afford an electric car With recent SMMT figures stating that just eight per cent of car sales are electric, new research from car finance broker CarFinance 247 has identified that two-in-five (37%) non-EV drivers don’t think their budget will ever stretch to an electric car. This was particularly felt by those whose current car was purchased used (43%), as opposed to new (28%).

As part of the study, 2,002 UK adult drivers were shown a typical price of good-quality, used electric or hybrid cars, and asked when they thought they might be able to afford them, allowing time for saving or their monthly income to grow.

Nearly two-in-five (37%) said that, right now, they could afford a used, small EV like a Nissan Leaf (priced around 5,000 pounds sterling), while one-infive (18%) could stretch to a mid-range car, such as a second-hand Golf EV (priced around 18,000 pounds sterling). Top-end cars, unsurprisingly, remain out of reach for many, with a quarter (24%) saying they could never afford even a used Tesla 3 (priced around 42,000 pounds sterling) – nearly one-in-three (29%) went so far as to say that they could only afford one if they won the lottery.

Louis Rix co-CEO of CarFinance 247, commented on the findings, “I would encourage anyone looking to buy a new or used car in the future to consider an electric one. But it’s clear from our research that there are still many of drivers who feel uncertain about EVs, in particular when it comes to their perceived costs. However, electric cars are not always as expensive as people think. You can pick up a good quality, used EV now for a very good price, and they retain their value too. With 2030 not far away, consumers can’t wait much longer to start exploring the options.”

A surprising finding, considering the seemingly high cost, was that the lower the annual household income, the more positive the participant was about electric cars. Of those with an income of less than 15,000 pounds sterling per year – minimum wage in the UK – more than half (54%) of the participants said that they either have or want an electric car. This was despite CarFinance 247 figures showing that, in 2019, the average cost of a used electric car (bought with finance) was 18,320 pounds sterling.

Those with a larger household income were less positive. Of all of the UK adults surveyed, one in five (21%) said they don’t like electric cars. Within this group, three-in-five (59%) respondents with an income of income of 75,000 pounds sterling or more per annum said that their dislike of EVs was due to cost, compared with just half (48%) of those who earn less than 15,000 pounds sterling a year.

Similarly, millennials were the age group who appeared to embrace electric cars the most, with 70 per cent of 18-34 years olds saying they have or want

one. This declined the older the participant was, with those aged 65+ backing them the least, with just 3 per cent owning an EV. Surprisingly, however, a quarter of those aged 65+ said that they would actually like an EV (22%) but couldn’t afford one (24%).

Louis Rix said, “Our research shows young people are quite idealistic about electric cars, even though they might not yet be in a position to buy one. As a nation, it seems we become more reluctant to own an EV when we’re in a position when we could, in theory, cover the expense of one.”

“We weren’t expecting the older generation to embrace the prospect of EVs as much as they did, however, what’s concerning is that people who are at retirement age have the desire for an electric car but can’t afford one.”

CarFinance 247 provides car finance options to suit individual needs, approving loan amounts before you make a car purchase, to ensure you don’t get tempted into buying a car you can’t afford.

When asked if drivers knew and practised the other ways of driving more sustainably, 15 per cent still claim they weren’t aware of the negative impact of diesel petrol and 14 per cent didn’t realise driving slower or in a lower gear was a way to be more sustainable.

Louis Rix continued, “We were astonished that with all the noise in the media about diesel cars, some people are still unaware of the harm they are doing to our planet. If an electric car isn’t something you can afford in the near future, I would encourage everyone to do what they can to drive more sustainably in their current car, such as checking your tyre pressure, maintaining a steady speed, and exploring flexible working options to reduce your commute.”

To help everyone do their bit for our planet, CarFinance 247 has compiled a guide on how to drive in a more environmentally friendly way, even if you haven’t got an electric car.

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n FORD'S FOCUS with Daniel Ford

How do you solve a problem like Ipswich Town? Despite once again being tipped for promotion the Super Blues are floundering in their attempts to reach the Championship, their form over the last few months would have Town hovering just outside the drop zone. So what on earth has gone wrong? And is Paul Lambert still the man for the job?

Last season the word on every supporters lips was ‘rotation’, Lambert was frequently criticised for rotating not only his players but also his formations, ultimately this lack of consistency led to a lack of fluency which cost Town as the season wore on. Fast forward to this season and Lambert’s approach has changed dramatically, now he is insistent on playing a 4-3-3 (or some variation of it) regardless of whether the players fit the system or not. I find this utterly baffling, surely if Lambert wanted to implement a specific formation and style of football then this is what he should have done in his first season, I guarantee that most fans would have accepted it if at the start of last season he came out and said that it would be a season to establish an identity. Instead quite astonishingly mid pre-season last year he abandoned his 4-3-3 to play 4-4-2 having stumbled upon it in a friendly.

This season though it is his insistence on playing 4-3-3 that has catalysed Ipswich’s downfall! Despite the club having a plethora of injuries leaving them totally bereft of central midfielders, he refused to switch to a formation that would only require two players in the middle of the park, somehow he has managed to go from one extreme to the other. Furthermore, this season (under instructions from the owner) Ipswich are trying to play ‘attractive’ football, however, Lambert seems to think that as long as the players are passing the ball rather than playing it long then that qualifies as entertaining football. Hence, Town have spent the majority of this season laboriously passing the ball around the back with about as much dynamism as a slab of concrete, look at Leicester when they won the league they played entertaining football by getting the ball up the pitch quickly!

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The bigger issue though has arisen off the pitch; Paul Lambert who was previously a favourite with the fans has now succeeded in alienating a large majority of them. Some of his press conferences have been quite frankly bizarre, the combination of his insistence that the team are playing well as well as his frequent criticism of the youth players has created what may well be an unbreakable divide between him and the fan base.

These are tough times for Town and with Lambert’s job seemingly safe it may well be a while until we see Championship football at Portman Road again.

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