Ipswich24 Magzine April 2017

APRIL 2017

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

FRE E mag azin e

INSIDE THIS MONTH:

GUIDE TO EASTER LOCAL THEATRE EVENTS | MUSIC PRIZE COMPETITIONS PLUS – THE CIRCUS IS COMING – See page 10

The Luxury Travel Specialist

Visit us online at www.ipswich24.co.uk for more information and events 0417_ips24_April.indd 1

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The Iconic Location of John Constable’s Masterpiece Flatford Mill - the inspiration behind one of Britain’s greatest paintings.

The Hay Wain depicts a rural scene on the River Stour between the English counties of Suffolk and Essex.

It is considered to be John Constable’s most famous image and one of the greatest and most popular English paintings. Owned by the Constable family from 1743 - 1846, Flatford Mill and its picturesque scenery were the source of inspiration for much of Constable’s art. Another in the series, The Lock, became one of the most expensive British paintings ever sold when it fetched £22.4 million at auction in 2012.

Flatford Mill has three historically

significant (grade 1 listed) buildings; The Mill, Valley Farm and Willy Lott’s House. Since 1946 the National Trust has leased the buildings to environmental education charity Field Studies Council, who use them to provide a range of arts and natural history courses throughout the year.

Located across the millstream from Flatford Mill is Willy Lott’s House, famously known for being depicted in The Hay-Wain. Willy Lott, a local farmer and good friend of the Constable family bought the house in 1824 and lived there until his death in 1849. It is believed that Willy only ever spent four nights

out of his long 84-year life away from his home. Willy Lott’s Cottage has survived to this day practically unaltered and currently provides bedrooms for Field Studies Council (FSC) residential courses.

If you would like discover the Hay

Wain view and feel as if you are actually wandering through one of John Constable’s paintings, Flatford Mill Field Centre has a variety of arts and natural history courses, including photography and guided walks.

Flatford Mill Field Centre, Flatford Road, East Bergholt, Suffolk, CO7 6UL 01206 297 110 enquiries.fm@field-studies-council.org www.field-studies-council.org/flatfordmill

Be Inspired by

Nature & the Arts Flatford Mill Field Centre An 18th century watermill surrounded by the picturesque Suffolk countryside, only 12 miles from Ipswich. Flatford Mill offers over 90 arts and crafts courses with expert tuition for all abilities - both day and short residential courses are available.

“The location is absolutely delightful & the staff can’t do enough for you & make you feel very welcome” Bookbinding course participant, February 2017

“Excellent course in every respect. Accommodation and catering were first class, and the course itself was engaging and inspiring.”

Stained Glass course participant, February 2017

Flatford Mill is just one of a network of field centres run by environmental education charity Field Studies Council (FSC) that provides arts courses in stunning natural locations.

For more information, please visit www.field-studies-council.org/arts

Please call 01206 297 110

Or visit: www.field-studies-council.org/flatfordmill Flatford Mill Field Centre, Flatford Road, East Bergholt, Suffolk, CO7 6UL 2

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INSIDE THIS MONTH APRIL On Stage:

There’s something for everyone this month - country-rock with Talon, Shakespeare, old time musical memories, dance, a 70s boy band make a return, folk, Monty Python, classical, dance and even news of a panto (oh yes there is!).

24-29 Local Traders:

Looking for a local tradesman? our Local Services section is the place to look for when you need someone to sort that job.

42-43

Holiday Destination:

Lee Hunt of Deben Travel visits Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam.

6 Easter:

Lots of activities over the Easter period from baby lambs to steam trains, Easter Egg Hunts to owls and much much more.

Looking for something to do? We have something for everyone in our day-by-day guide to April. From music events to places to go and things to do.

22-23

11-14 15-17

Stonham Barns:

Want a break from the bustle of the town? Why not head out to the Suffolk countryside for some retail therapy?

Ipswich24 is published on the last Thursday of every month by Fizzwig Designs.

Available Free from numerous outlets across Ipswich, Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Hadleigh and surrounding villages, including leading supermarkets, libraries etc.

If you wish to stock copies please contact us.

Enquiries, Editorial and Advertising Contributions can be sent:

By Email to info@ipswich24.co.uk Mail to: Suite 9, 85 Dales Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 4JR Contributions by 5th of month preceeding publication.

Every effort has been made to present all information accurately, however no liability is accepted for any inclusions or advice given or for omissions from the publication. Views of contributors are those of the contributor and not necessarily those held by Ipswich24 magazine. Please note that unauthorised reproduction in part or whole of any artwork or content in Ipswich24 or from the Ipswich24 website without prior written consent can and will result in a minimum ÂŁ150 royalty charge.

Tel: 01473 351270

www.ipswich24.co.uk

Events Diary:

Saturday 15th April

Come along to

The White Horse

and help Karen & Billy celebrate their 1st Birthday LIVE Entertainment & Buffet Customers past, present & new all welcome.

The White Horse 33 Church Road, Felixstowe, IP11 9NF

Telephone: 01394 277496 Email: bookings@thewhitehorse-felixstowe.co.uk 3

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Put a spring in your step with Ipswich Oddfellows Keeping active is important, especially as we get older. With many adults over 65 spending an average of 10 hours or more a day sitting or lying down every day, inactivity is having a real impact on our physical and mental health.

This spring, your local branch of the Oddfellows friendly society is inviting the community to come out of hibernation and ‘Ditch the Slippers’ with their weekly gentle exercise activity session. With regular games of indoor Kurling and Boccia (similar to bowls), there’s also the opportunity to meet new people and keep active in good company.

do the trick, along with lowering the chances of stroke, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, depression and dementia.

‘Ditch the Slippers’ light exercise group meet every Thursday morning at 10.15am at Ipswich Oddfellows’ regular meeting place at 37 High Street, IP1 3QH. Entry costs just £2.50.

“We’re a friendly bunch,” added Lynne, “and welcome all abilities to come along and join in the fun.”

Also this month, Ipswich Oddfellows will be taking a gentle ramble around the Orwell Country Park on Tuesday 25th April at 10.30am followed by a pub lunch at the Swallow Pub, 3 Augusta Close, IP3 9SS. For more details of these and other Oddfellows events, please contact Wendy or Lynne 01473 251 867 or email ipswichevents@oddfellows.co.uk.

You can also search for local events online at www.oddfellows.co.uk.

Things hotting-up for Suffolk’s Biggest Event of the Year Lynne Wyatt, Ipswich Oddfellows Secretary said, “It’s so easy to fall into the trap of thinking that there’s no point in exercising as you get older, but regular physical activity is proven to help you feel younger and stay independent longer.”

NHS guidelines recommend older adults should take at least two and half hours of moderate activity every week, and the results are potentially lifechanging. Want to reduce your risk of heart disease? Regular exercise could

With just a couple more months to go until the Suffolk Show opens its gates to visitors, organisers are gearing up for another spectacular year at the most hotly-anticipated event in the county’s calendar.

This year’s show takes place on Wednesday 31st May and Thursday 1st June at Trinity Park in Ipswich. As Suffolk’s largest twoday visitor experience, the Show is a unique celebration of everything that makes the county great and showcases the best of Suffolk’s food and drink and agricultural heritage, coupled with being a great day out for families.

Show organisers, the Suffolk Agricultural Association (SAA), a registered charity, have some exciting new features in the pipeline for 2017 which will be part of an action-packed programme across the two-day event. Highlights include dog agility, a new horse and country ring, a new sculpture garden and an exciting performance from the Atkinsons Action Horses, the equine stars of the BBC’s Poldark.

Show Director, Bee Kemball, said, “There are thousands of things to see and do at the Suffolk Show and each year we make sure that there’s something new for visitors to enjoy. We are all looking forward to this year’s show and we are excited to welcome visitors from across Suffolk and further afield for the county’s biggest day out.”

For more information and to book tickets visit www.suffolkshow.co.uk or call the ticket hotline on 01473 707117.

TEMPORARY EMERGENCY CUSTOMER SERVICE ADVISOR £30 AN HOUR FOR ACTIVATIONS This position can fit around your current work or family commitments.

There are no set hours, it is an ‘as and when’/’on call’ basis.

You will receive a text message and ideally get into the office within an hour.

You will be taking calls from customers as an emergency during storms and loss of power. Full training will be provided.

Please call 01473 321 800 and ask for Vicki or email vicki.studd@ansaback.co.uk for more info.

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Win a night out with friends to see Islands in the Stream This month Ipswich24 has teamed up with the Spa Pavilion Theatre in Felixstowe to offer you a fabulous prize of two pairs of tickets to see Islands in the Stream, a show that celebrates the Queen and King of country music – Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers.

and Kenny’s legendary live shows. So leave your 9 to 5 worries at the door of the Spa Theatre and sail away to another world with this all-new thighslapping stage show.

Islands in the Stream is on Saturday 13th May at 7.30pm is stacked with country music’s greatest hits; Jolene, Ruby, 9 to 5, Lucille, Here You Come Again, The Gambler, I Will Always Love You, Coward of the County, plus Love is Like a Butterfly and Lady, just to name but a few of the numerous popular hits this duo have enjoyed throughout their country career. Enjoy the awesome vocals and gentle humour of Dolly

“Sounds just like the real thing!”

PRI Z COM E P

Some recent reviews of this touring show have said …

“The show had the audience on its feet, blown away by the quality of the performances.”

Those who came along to the recent Johnny Cash Revisited show at the Spa will know what a fabulous evening was had by all, celebrating another of Country Music’s heroes. Johnny Cash was in fact Dolly Parton’s first crush. For more details about Islands in the Stream or to book your tickets call the Spa Pavilion Box Office on 01394 284962. Why not sign up to the Spa’s newsletter and be the first to hear of new shows as they go on sale? The Spa Pavilion’s Lounge and Terrace Café/Restaurants are open every

day from 9.30am – 5pm and two hours before shows. Go to www.felixstowespa.co.uk or follow @SpaPavilion on Facebook and Twitter

— COMPETITION —

Ipswich 24 magazine has got four tickets to see Islands in the Stream at the Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe on Saturday 13th May to give away to one lucky winner. To be in with a chance of winning this great prize just send you answer to the following question, along with your name, address and a daytime telephone number to: Islands in the Stream Competition, Ipswich24, Suite 9, 85 Dales Road, Ipswich, IP1 4JR or you can enter online at www.ipswich.co.uk. The closing date for entries is Friday 28th April 2017.

Q. Dolly Parton’s first crush was? (a) Johnny Cash; (b) Kenny Rogers; (c) George Jones

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Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh City & The Mekong Lee from Deben Travel has just returned from a fascinating tour of Southern Vietnam, spellbinding scenery, incredible heritage, tantalising cuisine and genuinely warm friendly people, here he tells us about his experience of this amazing destination.

“Flying from Birmingham International Airport with Emirates I had a short connection in Dubai before flying onto Ho Chi Minh City, formally Saigon. An exciting city which should form part of any Vietnam itinerary.

with Lee Hunt of Deben Travel

From Ho Chi Minh I soaked up the local cultures by taking part in a night-time Vespa tour (which was an experience!) and a cookery course, both I would highly recommend along with the floating market, all of which can be pre-booked ahead of your arrival.

A highlight of my trip was a cruise on the Mekong Delta, it is possible to spend a night or two on a traditional ‘junk boat’ but with limited time a day navigation the tree lined canals whilst taking in the incredible scenery and wildlife was a memory to be treasured. Whilst visiting

the Mekong I also visited the Cu Chi Tunnels where the Vietnamese guerrillas built a labyrinth of narrow tunnels as hideouts during the war.

I was lucky enough to stay in three lovely hotels, The Riverside Saigon, TTC Hotel Can Tho and the Caravelle Saigon. These are larger more luxurious hotels but smaller boutique style hotels are also available.”

Whether combined with an idyllic beach or as part of an all-encompassing multicentre tour. Fast-paced, skyscrapers and modern shopping malls sit alongside ancient buildings, palaces, temples, bustling markets and the original French Quarter.

Hola!

!

Spanish Language Tuition

GCSE & A Level Revision Courses Children Out of School Club Adult Day/Evening Courses

www.spanishexpress.co.uk T: +44 (0) 1473 902 436 M: +44 (0) 7903 867 894

If you like the sound of Vietnam Deben Travel can tailor-make your ideal holiday, simply send us an email with your requirements on team@debentravel.co.uk or telephone 01394 615620 or call in to Deben Travel, 25 The Thoroughfare, Woodbridge.

Memories of Aldeburgh?

The Annual General Meeting of the Alde Valley Suffolk Family History Group will be held on Monday 24th April at 7.30pm at Leiston United Church, High Street, Leiston, IP16 4EL.

Following the short formal meeting, Charlotte Newson will give a presentation of a project she will be working on this summer with the Red House, Aldeburgh.

The project will involve two elements - one: audio about local people’s knowledge, stories and memories of Aldeburgh; the other part would involve getting people to come to workshops to make a costume/headdress/ something to enter the carnival.

The meeting will be open to all, free of charge, although only paid up members may vote. So, if you have memories of Aldeburgh in days gone by, or want to get involved in the carnival, why don’t you come along?

Entrance is not at the front of the church, but on the left hand side as you face the building. Parking is free in the Co-op/Solar car park that adjoins it, but you must sign your vehicle in at the tills in the supermarket or face a charge of £100.

— MENDLESHAM COMMUNITY COUNCIL –

STREET FAYRE MONDAY 1st MAY 2017 OLD MARKET STREET, MENDLESHAM 12-5pm • Gates Open 10.30am

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You are invited to a party!

2017 marks The Suffolk Walking Festivals tenth Birthday and the organisers would love it if you joined them to help celebrate this wonderful event.

The Suffolk Walking Festival is an annual event that celebrates the wonderful and diverse Suffolk Countryside. With such a wide array of walks available throughout our fine county, there is something for everyone to enjoy during this year’s Walking Festival. There are different types of walks, each with its own theme and feel, designed to reflect different tastes and abilities.

These walks give you the opportunity to really experience the unique Suffolk countryside as you use the rights of way and networks of established pathways that stretch from Newmarket to Lowestoft and down as far as the Stour Valley; some walks will have you keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife as you take the coastline trail around RSPB Minsmere, whilst others will give you a great deal of insight into the history of our towns and villages as you tread the streets of Bury St Edmunds.

The festival, boasts over 100 walks covering every distance from one mile to 60, giving both veteran walkers and those new to walking an opportunity to celebrate with us. Join ambles around market towns, strolls in local parks to jaunts through the countryside. There really is something for everyone!

If you fancy a particularly fun challenge then consider the Classic and the Mega Challenge Walks, 60 miles exploring the beautiful Stour Valley Path, in either 30 hours, or spread over four days, both including refreshments at an array of Suffolk hotspots.

Need somewhere to stay? The Suffolk Walking Festival are proud and excited to share that Suffolk Secrets have come aboard as their ‘Official

Tourism Partner’. This will give visitors and residents in Suffolk, the opportunity to stretch the fun even further with a range of accommodation and walk offers.

Save the date and come and celebrate as you make friends, have fun, and perhaps enjoy a slice of cake or two!

For more information and to book your tickets, please visit www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk .

Take on a challenge for your local hospice St Elizabeth Hospice has a range of different events and challenges taking place to raise vital funds this summer.

There is something for everyone in 2017, whether you want to be part of the fun-filled, family-friendly Bubble Rush on Sunday 13th August at Christchurch Park, Ipswich or the hospice’s flagship event, the Midnight Walk on Saturday 20th May.

This year the hospice is also offering a range of adrenaline-fuelled challenges, from braving a 10,000ft jump with fellow hospice supporters at a Parachute Party at Beccles Airfield on Saturday 15th July, to taking on the UK’s highest freefall abseil off the ArcelorMittal Orbit in the world famous Olympic Park.

Joanne Rodger, events and challenges manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, said, “We are really

excited to be able to offer a wide range of events and challenges to all our supporters in 2017; from getting covered in brightly coloured bubbles to braving jumping out of a plane - there really is something for everyone!

“Taking part in one of the hospice’s events or challenges is a great way to do something fun whilst also raising money for a good cause, as the money raised from

these exhilarating experiences will go towards providing care and support to patients and their families wherever it is need, whether at home, in the community or at the hospice.”

Find out more about the range of events and challenges you can be part of in 2017 at www. stelizabethhospice.org.uk/events, call 01473 723600 or email fundraising@stelizabethhospice.org.uk

As we walked through the bluebell woods, I thought he’d like this It’s the little things that make a funeral special Here for you every hour of every day

01473 851731

for your nearest funeral director visit www.eastofengland.coop/funerals 7

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WIN: Broadchurch series on DVD The hugely anticipated final series of the TV phenomenon Broadchurch arrives on DVD and Blu-ray following its run on ITV. Broadchurch Complete Series 1-3 Box Set will also be released in both formats courtesy of RLJ Entertainment’s Acorn label on 24th April 2017.

Penned by acclaimed writer Chris Chibnall (Torchwood), the third and final series of Broadchurch, ITV’s multi award-winning drama sees David Tennant (Doctor Who) and Olivia Colman (The Night Manager) reprise their roles as the dynamic duo DI Alec Hardy and DS Ellie Miller, as they are called in to investigate a new case – the brutal sexual assault of a local woman, Trish Winterman (Julie Hesmondhalgh – Coronation Street).

A touch of Winter in MAY

With the British weather as it is, it wouldn’t be unheard of to see snow in May! Local charity Home-Start can (unlike most weather reporters) guarantee it. Home-Start will be hosting their second annual “Snowflake” Ball at Kesgrave Hall, Milsoms on Friday 19th May. Attendees will once again be dancing along to the band Soul Kitchen and after an arrival drink, will enjoy a sumptuous three-course dinner and a variety of entertainment.

During the evening there will be the chance to win some amazing prizes and to bid on a silent auction. There is also the opportunity to be involved with a variety of sponsorship packages available to local businesses and prizes needed for the evening’s activities.

So why a Snowflake Ball? - The Snowflake represents the unique, fragile and vulnerable nature of the children and families that Home-Start supports.”

Home-Start helps families for whom the pressures of family life have become too great to cope with alone; this can be for many differing reasons such as bereavement, physical and mental health problems. Families are matched with a trained volunteer who supports them on a weekly basis enabling them to grow in confidence, strengthen their relationships with their children, improve their health and wellbeing and widen their links locally.

Should you like to find out more, or to purchase tickets priced at £55pp you can contact Home-Start, office@homestartcoastal.co.uk or 01473 621104 or visit the website at www.homestarteastsuffolk.org.uk

$

$

PRIZE COMP

Three years have passed in a town that will never forget; but times change. The local newspaper, once the backbone of Broadchurch, is facing closure, and DI Alec Hardy with DS Ellie Miller are about to take on a case that reopens old wounds and divides the town in ways they could never have predicted.

What dark secrets still lie buried in a town that has been so closely examined? And how will unresolved issues around the death of young Danny Latimer finally be settled? The answers lie in Broadchurch: The Final Chapter.

The game-changing British TV series, had the nation on the edge of its seat for some two years and now it returns for its final gripping, unmissable finale. The debut series of Broadchurch was ITV’s highest rated new drama of 2013 winning a peak audience of some 10.5 million viewers and the second series was ITV’s highest rated drama of 2015, with its premiere delivering viewing figures of more than 10.9 million. The programme remains as ITV’s most tweeted drama since records began.

— COMPETITION — Ipswich24 has got three copies of the DVD Broadchurch Series Three to give away to lucky readers. To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize just send your answer to the following question, along with your name, address and a contact telephone number to: Broadchurch Competition, Ipswich24, Suite 9, 85 Dales Road, Ipswich, IP1 4JR or you can enter online at www.ipswich24.co.uk. The closing date for entries is Friday 28th April 2017.

Q. Can you name the actors that play the parts of DI Alec Hardy and DS Ellie Miller in the hit British TV series Broadchurch?

Quizzing, reading and a fun evening

Reading for pleasure is a globally recognised indicator in a huge range of social issues from poverty to mental health.

That’s one of the reasons why Woodbridge Library works so hard to inspire more and more people - from the youngest children upwards - to read. At any one time about 10,000 books are out on loan from our library, in the homes and hands of many of the area’s 25,000 library users.

World Book Night is an international event to encourage people to share their love of reading and celebrate the difference that reading makes to people’s lives. It takes place in April each year. It’s similar to the very successful World Book Day for children that happens in March when many children dress up in the costume of their favourite book character.

This year Woodbridge Library is celebrating with a World Book Night Quiz on Wednesday 26th April. It’s a quiz with a difference, testing your knowledge of things like sport, food, film and television but with a bookish slant. The librarians have got together to create the questions; members of the Friends of Woodbridge Library will be running the evening. (The librarians are not allowed to enter a team!) Proceeds will go towards the work of the Friends. Their current aim is to equip the library with mobile shelving.

The quiz will start at 7.30pm, with the library doors opening half an hour beforehand to enable teams to get together, have a snack or a drink and prepare themselves for Kesgrave Mobile Cycle Repairs the evening ahead. Teams should • Fully equipped mobile workshop be no more than six people and • Repairs & Servicing the cost of entry is £3 per person • Parts & Accessories and teams should bring their own • On-site or Collect and Return • Buyers & Sellers of refreshments. To book a table New & Used Bikes please phone the library on 01394 Ip • Ipswich, Kesgrave, Woodbridge 446510 or call in person. You will & Surrounding Areas be asked to provide a team name • Full Service from £35.00 (make it as memorable as possible!) and some contact details.

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Set sail for a voyage aboard sailing barge Sailing Barge Victor is a perfect marriage of a majestic and traditionally rigged 19th century sailing vessel with comfortable, modern facilities for guests. A sailing trip on Sailing Barge Victor offers a truly memorable and affordable opportunity to experience living history.

There are a number of cruises available on board Sailing Barge Victor, so there is something to suit everyone. From public sailings that are specially designed for individuals, families and friendship groups to enjoy a relaxing sail on this historic Sailing Barge, to Suffolk Supper Cruises that include a delicious, freshly cooked hot supper with side salad and bread roll.

Back again this year are the very popular Suffolk Cream Tea Cruises. Enjoy freshly baked fruit and plain scones with jam and clotted cream served with tea or coffee, whilst you take in the spectacular views of the beautiful River Orwell.

Victor also offer private cruises and parties for larger family occasions, social groups and corporate events. Enjoy exclusive sailing cruises for up to 40 guests. There is a licensed bar on board with a range of fine Adnams beers, cider and soft drinks. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy informal commentaries from the skipper and crew on the maritime history of the area.

Why not take the helm, pull some ropes, enjoy the peace, watch the birds or simply relax… the choice is yours. There are also opportunities to cruise with friends in the afternoon and then to extend the evening with on board entertainment whilst at quayside outside the Old Custom House at Ipswich Waterfront. Departures are from Ipswich or Harwich. Or, why not host your own quayside party on board Sailing Barge Victor located outside the Old Customs House at Ipswich Waterfront.

Sailing Barge Victor Departs from the Old Custom’s House at Ipswich Dock, passing through the lock gates and sailing down the beautiful and historic River Orwell and under the Orwell Bridge.

Visit website www.sbvictor.co.uk for other exciting events including Open Days at Ipswich Waterfront celebration and regular Folk Nights.

• Tickets for cruises can also be booked online at www.sbvictor.co.uk or with Ipswich Tourist Information Centre 01473 258070 or email tourist@ipswich.gov.uk

Spring Steam-Up The Long Shop Museum in Leiston will reopen in style by launching the 2017 season on Saturday 1st April with a fantastic steam and activity day from 10am until 4pm.

This will be heralded by live music from the Leiston Royal British Legion Band who will be serenading the town as part of a grand parade from the Co-op car park departing at 9.45am en route to the museum where a host of attractions are in store.

Once the world’s first purpose built workshop for assembly line production, the museum contains a magnificent array of machines and many of these will be demonstrated in all their working glory at our Spring Steam Up event, with rides aplenty!

There will be large and small engines in steam, including the Museum’s very own ‘Sirapite’ shunting engine and Consuelo Allen. The museum are also rather excited that their unique ‘Suffolk Punch’ steam tractor is being renovated 100 years on from when she was built in 1917! The last one of her kind, the ‘Joker’ will make a special appearance, hopefully in steam.

A hog-roast will be on site, with tea, coffee and scrumptious home made cakes available throughout the day! Sights to behold include displays from local model engineering societies and classic cars in the post office square, dancing from the East Suffolk Morris Men, and a blacksmithing demonstration. There will be hands-on activities for children and more so do keep an eye on our website for further details.

• No need to book – just come along! For more information visit www.longshopmuseum.co.uk.

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Chinese State Circus comes to Ipswich The internationally acclaimed Chinese State Circus is to return to the UK in 2017 after a break of three years returning to its roots in an innovatively spectacular new production – “DYNASTY”.

Breathtaking in its simplicity, “DYNASTY” projects into a contemporary setting an art form that has thrilled audiences for more than 2,000 years where low-tech everyday objects are transformed into hi-tech acrobatic equipment. Hurtling porcelain jars... dynamically spinning plates... balancing upon gigantic pyramids of tables and chairs framed by the delicate strands of silk supporting cascading aerialists.

“Never has such excitement been generated in a theatre. The whole audience hangs breathless” Manchester Evening News

have the world class artistes capable of performing the excellence required. In “DYNASTY” we have created a show with: no gimmicks...no fakes...no retakes...quite simply...the incomparable Chinese State Circus.”

The Chinese State Circus will be performing at Chantry Park in Ipswich from Tuesday 4th until Sunday 9th April. To book tickets contact the Booking Line on 0844 4155 228 or visit www.chinesestatecircus.com

Vintage and Makers Market returns to Snape Maltings

TONY HOPKINS EVENTS LTD UNDER LICENCE FROM THE GANDEY ORGANISATION PRESENTS

T H E

Stunning world-class Chinese acrobats, aerial artistes and jugglers interact with the superhuman physical skills and dexterity of the masters of martial arts – the legendary Shaolin Warriors.

The nonstop action from start to awesome finale as thrill follows thrill is set to a soaring musical score accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Chinese percussion. Its outstanding acrobatic achievement that could until now could only be created video through special effects – yet performed live in front of an audience what seems impossible becomes a reality. It is what has earned the Chinese State Circus the accolade “incomparable”.

The history of the Chinese State Circus spans 25 years when it was conceived by Creative Director Phillip Gandey who became the first Circus Director in Europe to obtain permission from the Chinese Cultural authorities to be allowed to tour a Big Top production of his own creation performed entirely by Chinese acrobats.

Phillip has spent a considerable time travelling extensively throughout China to select the very best circus artistes who will not only be worthy of continuing the proud and unequalled tradition of acrobatic excellence in the Chinese State Circus but also be capable of raising the “incomparable” standards to even higher contemporary heights.

“In our latest production we have returned to the pure and honest perfection in acrobatics upon which our reputation is based,” said Phillip. “We

I N C O M PA R A B L E

The Snape Malting Vintage & Makers Market returns for its first outing of 2017 to Snape Maltings on Sunday 9th April from 10am to 4pm.

TM

T H E L I V E A C T I O N S P E C TA C U L A R

IPSWICH

CHANTRY PARK IP2 0LB TUESDAY 4 TO SUNDAY 9 APRIL

TICKET & INFORMATION LINE

0844 4155 228

WWW.CHINESESTATECIRCUS.COM

Organiser Deben Events has hand-picked a choice selection of the region’s leading vintage traders, local artisans, makers and craftspeople to kick off their year’s calendar.

The market will feature everything from one-off vintage furniture, fashion, and homewares, to locally made products, artworks, fabrics and jewellery.

Tim Clover of Deben Events, says, “It’s great to kick-start the year at Snape as it’s such a fantastic setting and always hugely popular for a very enjoyable Sunday out to snap up something one-off or locally handmade.”

For more information visit www.debenevents.com

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Giant Easter Egg Hunt On Saturday 15th April Home-Start Suffolk: East Ipswich & Coastal will be holding its annual Easter Egg Hunt.

Come along at 11am to The Square at Martlesham where you can register.

Every child will then have the chance to find a bean, which they can exchange for an Easter goody there will be one lucky gold bean which will earn them an extra surprise. Also available will be a toy tombola and

Spring has sprung at Baylham April is nearly upon us and life at Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm is getting quite hectic. If you haven’t had a chance to come and meet the lambs and piglets you have another fantastic opportunity throughout the Easter holidays.

For those who want even more then, over the Easter weekend, the Speggtacular returns on the 14th to the 17th of April.

The new lambs love to sit on your lap and if you are very lucky you may even see more being born. You can also meet the bunnies in the bunny barn, and see all the other animals that always look forward to meeting someone who’ll feed them. The bar will be stocked as usual with local beers and wines from around the world, and the Baylham BBQ will be all fired up cooking their very own farm produce. Normal admission charged apply over the weekend, however anyone in an egg related costume on Easter Sunday will be given free admission. The kids’ play area means they can keep busy, while you can relax with a cup of coffee and a delicious cake.

Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm is six miles north west of Ipswich, off the B1113 between Great Blakenham and Needham Market. It opens Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays 10am until 5pm. With entry prices at £7 for adults, £6 for concessions, £3 for children (aged 4-16) and free entry for under fours, it would be difficult to find a more diverting and better value attraction in Suffolk. A family ticket (2 Adults and 2 children) is also available at £18.

• For more information just visit the farm website at www.baylham-house-farm.co.uk or call 01473 830264.

refreshments. There is no charge for the event. Places will be limited to the first 150 registered.

This event is for the local community for more information please telephone 01473 621104 or email office@homestartcoastal.co.uk Home-Start Suffolk: East Ipswich & Coastal supports families in the East of Ipswich and Suffolk Coastal areas. These families receive one to one or group support from trained volunteers because for them the pressures of family life have become too much to cope with alone, this can be for a variety of reasons such as illness, disability, mental health problems, bereavement, isolation and multiple births.

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Hop in and get creative!

Krispy Kreme spreading the joy in Ipswich PRIZE COM P

With the Easter holidays just around the corner are you looking for something different to do with the kids, then why not give Pennikkity Pots Ceramics Café a visit?

Open seven days a week (except for Easter Sunday) and ideally located in the centre of Ipswich, it is a fun place to relax and get creative.

Don’t worry if you haven’t painted pottery before everyone can enjoy this great activity from tiny tots to tricky teens and create something truly unique but it’s not just for the kids the studio is also packed with the latest home décor items as well so you will be spoilt for choice plus yummy cake and coffee.

There is no time limit to your stay and no need to book. If you arrive on a busy day your mobile number will be taken and you will be guaranteed the next available table. The friendly staff will guide you through the process all you have to do is sit back, relax and get creative. Prices start from £5 plus a £3 studio fee per painter to cover your time in the studio, paints and glazing, cut out and keep the advert below for a £2.00 discount. Items are fired on the premises and ready for collection a week later, a postal service is also available. Check out the Pennikkity Pots Facebook page or call in the cafe for all the latest news including the Easter Bunny painting event and competition this holiday.

£2 off

– COMPETITION —

To get your hands on a coveted Krispy Kreme Red Card, simply send your answer the question below, along with your name, address and a contact telephone number to: Kirspy Kreme Competition, Suite 9, 85 Dales Road, Ipswich, IP1 4JR or you can enter online at www.ipswich24.co.uk. The closing date for entries Friday 28th April 2017.

What is Krispy Kreme’s signature doughnut?

1) Cruller 2) Original Glazed 3) Chocolate Iced

APRIL17

A mobile service is also available if you can’t get to the studio it can come to you. Plus launching this month ‘Take Me Home Kits’, packaged in funky little carry out boxes.

You get to choose ceramic, from a special take me home range, selection of paints and brush. Priced at £9.00 they make ideal presents or something to do on a dull day at home. With all the paint being water based any mess will simply wash away. Return your completed masterpiece in its box and Pennikkity Pots will glaze and fire it for you, at no extra cost.

Krispy Kreme has come to town and we want to celebrate its arrival with you. Ipswich24 have teamed up with the world-famous doughnut maker to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a dozen melt-in-themouth Krispy Kreme doughnuts every month for a year!

The new store in the Buttermarket, Ipswich offers a whole host of delicious doughnuts for you to try. Whether you opt for the signature Original Glazed or prefer something a little more decadent, like the delicious Lotus Caramelised Biscoff, there is something for everyone.

When you present this advertisement Ipswich IP1 3DJ Telephone 01473 216865 info@pennikkitypots.co.uk Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm Sun 11.00 till 4.00pm

www.pennikkitypotsceramicscafe.co.uk 12

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Easter Family Fun at the Spa

A fantastic Holiday panto for all the family is planned this April as one of two Easter family shows at the Spa Pavilion in Felixstowe. A talented cast of singers and dancers have been brought together to perform in the Easter Family Panto Humpty Dumpty’s Eggstravaganza!

One of our best loved stories is being brought to life by the Dennis Lowe Theatre Company making some Easter entertainment for all the family. Whether you believe that Humpty was a huge cannon which defended Colchester in the Siege of 1648, or was Richard the 3rd, or was just a figment of someone’s imagination won’t matter as Humpty and his friends sing and dance their way through the most eggselent of tales, with the audience being encouraged to come out of their shells and sing along! The Panto Pixies are back too, causing mischief and helping Humpty as he goes on a magical adventure with some unexpected twists.

The cast are also organising a meet and greet with the eggciting Panto characters plus the Spa’s own mascot Suki the Spa Panda and there will be some Easter Eggs

hidden around the theatre too for children to hunt for. There will be two performances on Saturday 15th April at 10.30am and also 2.30pm which are suitable for ages two to 102, particularly suitable for children four to14. Suzie Lowe, Director and Producer says “You can expect typical pantomime capers and audience participation. I think the Easter Egg Hunt will also add another exciting dimension for our little visitors.” Tickets start from just £14.

For the slightly younger audience don’t miss the Easter Bunny’s Eggsellent Adventure on Friday 21st April 2017 at 1.30pm.

Join in the fun as you find out who is behind the mysterious Easter Egg trail? Why are strange noises coming from the hills? What is the truth behind the Easter Bunny tale?

There’s also a hunt for the hidden

for two to seven year olds and lasts for 40 minutes, followed by a meet, greet and treat with the Easter Bunny himself!

Produced by Honalee Media who have a successful track record in popular children’s productions, including three national tours of Marty MacDonald’s Farm featuring the voices of CBeebies’ Justin Fletcher (AKA Mr. Tumble) and Nicole Davis (Topsy and Tim) and their Christmas production, Santa Saves Christmas, both of which appeared recently at the Spa Pavilion. All Tickets are £12 Children’s Ticket price also includes an Easter Treat. chocolate factory in Easter Bunny’s Eggs-ellent Adventure and little ones can meet him afterwards to get a special Easter present! This show includes well known songs including; ‘Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes’, ’Wheels on the Bus’, ‘The Hokey Cokey’, ‘One Finger, One Thumb’, ‘If You’re Happy And You Know It’, plus many more. This is a family show particularly suitable

The Easter Family Panto Humpty Dumpty’s Eggstravaganza! is on Saturday 15th April at the Spa Pavilion at 10.30am and again at 2.30pm. Easter Bunny’s Egg-sellent Adventure is on Friday 21st April 2017 at 1.30pm.

• Tickets for both are now on sale via www.felixstowespa.co.uk or by calling the Box Office on 01394 284962.

Easter Egg Hunt at Felixstowe Museum The Great Felixstowe Museum Easter Egg Hunt takes place on Wednesday 12th April.

Come and join the giant Landguard Bunny for a fun Easter Egg Hunt.

Search the Museum for the coloured eggs, then exchange them for a yummy reward! There will also be the chance to make fun bunny ears to make too.

This event is suitable for children aged three to 10 years, however older and younger children may attend, but please allow the recommended age group to enjoy the hunt. There is a maximum of 30 children per session. Children £3, adults £2, entry cost includes admission to the Museum.

You must pre-book in advance for this event by calling 01394 67435.

Visit www.felixstowemuseum.org for more information.

There will also be an Easter Trail at Landguard Fort, Felixstowe from Saturday 1st April until Monday 17th April.

Normal admission charges for the fort apply, plus £1.50 for this fun quiz trail, which includes your trail sheet and a Landguard Fort pencil.

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Eggs Galore at Owl Sanctuary Once the chilly winter weather is well and truly behind them, staff at the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary look forward to their busiest time of year - Spring, the season of eggs and babies!

Every year, a selection of the sanctuary’s resident birds will produce progeny. Nobody can predict which birds will breed or how many of them, so it is always exciting to watch and wait to see who will sit on eggs!

Some owls, like Bug and Beak the Tawny Owls are old hands at raising young and their years of experience dictate that their breeding will have a successful outcome.

Other birds may be breeding for the first time, or may just be less diligent about egg care! In both those cases, the falconry team may well have to step in to assist with egg incubation or hand rearing chicks.

Owls generally reach maturity at four or five years old, so young first time parents are watched carefully to ensure that eggs are not pushed out of nests or trampled and that newly hatched owlets receive enough food and nurturing. This all makes for a very exciting but very busy period in the work calendar.

As Ipswich24 goes to print there are several birds sitting on eggs at the sanctuary: the Great Horned Owls, Ural Owls, Spectacled Owls, Tawny Owls and Malaysian Wood Owls. Most of these birds have bred before, so can be left to raise their owlets safely on their own.

Cecil and Phyllis the Spectacled Owls are novice

Suffolk Owl Sanctuary

T VISI THE

at

STONHAM BARNS on the A1120

Open Daily 10 - 5 Great Family Fun! Reg. Charity 1086565

FLYING DISPLAYS DAILY WITH SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL OWLS & BIRDS OF PREY (from April 1st) plus RED SQUIRRELS MEERKATS • SOS SAFARI • MINI-MAZE

JENNY’S ARK PET ZOO on Easter & Spring Bank Holiday Mondays including

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parents, however, so will be watched carefully in case any intervention is deemed necessary for the safety of their young.

Most owls incubate their eggs for around 30 days and as they do not lay the whole clutch at the same time, young will hatch over several days. When baby owls are born, they are blind and fluffy… and VERY hungry!! There is no gentle weaning in the owl world - babies want meat immediately!

Due to their high protein diet, fed at frequent intervals throughout the day, owls grow incredibly quickly - by eight or nine weeks Barn Owlets will have attained adult weight and feathering!

Owl admissions into the sanctuary’s raptor hospital also reflect the busy breeding season of the wild owl population.

Many young owlets will be found, cold and wet, by members of the public having fallen from trees whilst learning to fly - they “branch out” from the roost before they are fully competent and often tumble to the ground.

The best course of action in these circumstances depends on what kind of owlet is found.

A Barn Owl chick - distinguishable by it’s iconic facial disc - will need to be helped back into it’s nest as the parents will only feed the young within the roost and will ignore tumblers!

Tawny Owl parents, however, will feed their grounded young and assist them back into the nest using beaks and talons, so the best course of action in that case is to leave well alone.

The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary hope that visitors will have the opportunity to meet some of their new, captive bred owlets within the next few weeks.

Flying displays featuring our experienced owls and other birds of prey will recommence for the season on 1st. April - three shows daily will feature different birds at each outing.

Over Easter weekend, the annual Easter Egg Hunt will also take place children can hunt for an egg around the site and reception staff will swap it for a chocolate one! (Non dairy alternative available).

On Easter Monday (only) Jenny’s Ark Petting Zoo will be back by popular demand - pop in to meet her friendly animals and hug a bunny, groom a guinea or handle a snake!

The sanctuary is open from 10am until 5pm, five days a week and also features a pretty Woodland Walk with red squirrel colony, relaxing sensory garden, children’s play area with wheelchair accessible equipment and tumble safe surface, Meerkat Kastle and a unique owlie gift shop.

There is free parking and restaurant on site. For further details telephone 0345 680 7897 or www.owl-help.org.uk

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119-121 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 7BL Tel: 01394 284 719 www.alfordbrothers.co.uk The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary Stonham Aspal IP14 6AT Tel: 03456 807 897 www.owl-help.org.uk

Email: Enquiries David_Alford@hotmail.co.uk

We also stock a range of Motorbikes and Scooters

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Stonham Barns Leisure & Retail Village is a bustling family complex filled with an abundance of attractions and activities to suit all, providing a wonderful family day out in the Suffolk Countryside. Conveniently situated on the A1120 tourist route.

Offering facilities to suit all ages, some of the onsite attractions on offer are a nine hole golf course; vibrant shopping village filled with a

plethora of shops to fulfil all shopping needs, fishing lakes, Children’s play area, plus so much more. The site is also home to the Stonham

Mid & West Suffolk Show

This Spring Stonham Barns plays host once more to the Mid & West Suffolk Show which is being held on Sunday 30th April and Monday 1st May.

Barns Showground, offering visitors numerous events throughout the year, including classic car events, annual dog show, fireworks fun, Christmas spectacular as well as much more.

The retail village has an abundance of shopping opportunities, services and facilities for all ages of the public in a beautiful Suffolk countryside setting. Here you will find a wonderful boutique shopping village with a large selection of small unique shops and large commercial business, allowing a shopping trip to Stonham Barns to always be a personal experience, with an extremely well stocked and varied range of products on offer. All of the businesses provide a fantastic customer service experience and will go the extra mile for their customers.

A weekly car boot adds to the facilities bringing in a great trade for the site with a friendly range of sellers providing goods and products on a select one-day basis only. Every Sunday the popular car boot is situated on the front overflow field, offering buyers and sellers

the opportunity to attend for a few hours.

Stonham Barns is also home to the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary. Here you can enjoy the company of owls and other birds of prey. The Sanctuary has daily flying displays so you can see these beautiful birds in flight.

There is also the popular Meerkat Kastle, red squirrels and chipmunks all waiting to meet you. Plus, you can visit the Owl Barn Gift Shop for your souvenirs.

With an array of exciting facilities and events for the whole family, admission to Stonham Barns Village is free and there is ample free parking too. The majority of facilities are open seven days, though some offer limited opening hours at certain times of year. You can be sure there is always something to do and new things to try for all ages when visiting. Stonham Barns Leisure & Retail Complex really is a great family day out in Suffolk!

To find out more about Stonham Barns Leisure & Retail Complex and to plan your visit take a look at their website at www.stonhambarns.co.uk

This exciting fun packed two-day show has something to keep the family entertained with many people coming back every year to enjoy the spectacular events.

This year the Xtreme Stunt Team, they will be wowing the crowd with their motorcycle and cycle stunts and displays. The Xtreme Stunt team is one of the most unique and exciting motorcycle stunt show’s and cycle bike display’s on the planet, with riders boasting more accumulated championship titles and accomplishments than any other team.

Alongside this spectacular act is a range of additional arena demonstrations and displays; including the Lowestoft dog agility display team, Falconry display, Traction Engines, Classic Cars, Motorcycles and Farm Machinery.

Other attractions include children’s activities, face painting, trade stalls, craft stalls and refreshments, so there will be lots to enjoy at this fantastic show!

The Mid & West Suffolk Show is open from 10am until 4pm both days, parking is free and tickets will be available on the gate.

Why not visit the additional onsite attractions as well and turn it into a real jam packed family fun day out, with a range of wonderful boutique shops, fishing lakes, crazy golf, owl sanctuary, and the children’s funfair situated alongside our jumping pillow in the children’s area!

Visit the website www.stonhambarns.co.uk for more information and details on all upcoming events and the general site.

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Gift ideas for everyone or something special for you Owned by Jacqueline McNally, Pretty Gorgeous Things is based at, Unit 4, Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Suffolk, IP14 6AT. After a long career as a lawyer, including ten years living and working in Luxembourg, Jacqueline happily left behind her corporate life to combine her dream of running her own business with her lifelong passion for interiors by founding Pretty Gorgeous Things.

Jacqueline’s right-hand woman at Pretty Gorgeous Things is her Mum, Shirley Alexander, who has a lifetime’s experience working in retail and antiques and brings invaluable ideas and expertise to the business.

Looking and feeling great The Beauty Barn is something special, set in the beautiful village of Stonham Aspal in Suffolk within the Stonham Barns Retail and Leisure Complex.

Close to Ipswich, Stowmarket, Coddenham, and surrounding villages, the salon is friendly and warm with a high standard of professionalism. As well as a wide range of Hair services including colours, perms and cutting services, it also credits itself on offering first class Beauty treatments and a wide range of holistic services.

All of the hair technicians and Beauty and Holistic therapists are trained to high standards ensuring that your experience is above and beyond your expectations.

Beautiful product ranges are used in the salon including Philip Kingsley hair products, Jessica Nails, and the paraben free award winning Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic is used throughout their range of facials.

Pretty Gorgeous Things stocks a wide range of individual and limited pieces. They source stock from the UK and Europe and ensure the shop carries an ever-changing range of home decoration pieces, small items of furniture, costume jewellery and scarves with the aim of providing customers with eclectic, beautiful and quirky items which are different from anything you will see elsewhere.

For something extra special they also offer the amazing anti-ageing Environ facial system and also the Jane Iredale mineral make up range which sets them apart from most salons in the area. Unique in their approach they treat everyone who visits the salon in an holistic way, making sure that they feel special, relaxed and beautiful.

Customer satisfaction is the priority at Pretty Gorgeous Things and they will do all they can to help you find your own perfect piece or special gift. Orders can be taken and thwy also have a website from which you can purchase – with free delivery on most items.

The stylists and therapists look forward to welcoming you to The Beauty Barn soon.

CLOCKS & WALL ART GIFTS & TREASURES • LIGHTING JEWELLERY & SCARVES

Unit 4, Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Suffolk, IP14 6AT Contact us: 07809 512361 www.prettygorgeousthings.co.uk Please Like and Share us on Facebook

Come-Camping for camping accessories and more

Stockists of the BioLite Stove which turns fire into electricity, as well as Victorinox and Leatherman Multi Tools, space saving collapsible items, and a comprehensive range of products for camping and bushcraft.

Unit 21A, Stonham Barns Leisure and Retail Park,

Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 6AT

Tel 01449 711888

Open in winter months 10am - 4.30pm Mon-Sat 10am - 4.00pm Sunday

And summer months open 10 am - 5pm Mon - Sat 10am - 4pm Sunday

Email come-camping@hotmail.com

• Hair Design & Colouring • Jessica Manicures, Pedicures • Environ Anti-Ageing Facials • Neal's Yard Remedies Organic Facials • Massage • Holistic Therapies • Bridal Packages, Pamper Days & Parties Unit 10, Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Suffolk, IP14 6AT Tel: 01449 711190 Email:- info@beautybarnsuffolk.co.uk Website:- www.beautybarnsuffolk.co.uk

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A true treasure trove Shows and events at the for young and old alike showground all year round Stone Rose Crystals at Stonham Barns near Ipswich and Stowmarket in Suffolk is a haven for crystal collectors and enthusiasts of all ages.

A delight for young collectors there are plenty of bright tumblestones, ‘crack your own’ geodes, colourful mineral specimens, sparkly clusters, and a good selection of fossils.

For holistic healing and meditation there are wands, pendulums, skulls, palm stones, and a massive range of stones both polished and rough to suit your preference.

Plus they also stock CDs, incense and candles.

There’s a vast array of hard to find, rare and mega-rare stones, specimens and clusters as well as eggs, spheres and large display pieces.

For gift hunters a super display of carved animals, angels, agate slices and bookends, pendants, bracelets, tea light holders and Himalayan salt lamps.

With suppliers both in the UK, USA and even further afield Stone Rose Crystals have been lucky enough to track down some beautiful and unusual pieces and the stock is being constantly added to.

This is truly an Aladdin’s cave of a shop, full to the brim with all sorts of crystal goodies so if you love crystals this is the place to come!

Stone Rose Crystals is open seven days a week and can be found at Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, IP14 6AT.

Stonham Barns Leisure & Retail Village is home to the fantastic Stonham Barns Showground, a 25-acre showground set in the Suffolk countryside, hosting an array of family-friendly shows throughout the year.

At Stonham Barns they have events on a weekly basis, so they are confident there is something for everyone to enjoy. All shows are individually priced and most shows offer special discounted family tickets and concession prices. Also, look out for those early bird tickets!

The site offers ample FREE parking for all shows and there is an onsite facility for cash withdrawals.

Some of the lovely events to look out for are the Mid & West Suffolk Show, an agricultural country show filled with thrilling arena displays along with a host of children’s activities including games, rides, inflatable fun, donkey rides, face painting and much more.

The Annual Stonham Dog Extravaganza, a show aimed at our favourite furry friends, where children and adults can enter their prize pooches to competitions, whilst enjoying the stands and activities on offer throughout the day.

Brand new open air theatre shows, an exciting theatre performance with audience participation with the added special feature of being able to sit outside with a picnic whilst enjoying the show, a first for many!

The fantastic Halloween & Fireworks night, a firm favourite with many, offering a traditional evening of excitement filled with surprises!

• For more information visit www.stonhambarns.co.uk

Stone Rose Crystals

Crystals Rocks Minerals

Open 7 days a week

Gemstone Gifts & Jewellery stonerosecrystals@gmail.com Find us on Facebook

Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Suffolk IP14 6AT 17

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Marathon challenge for Ipswich ladies Kay and Kelly of Kay Fletcher Fitness, along with 12 of their members are taking on the challenge of the London Moonwalk in May this year.

“We are always looking for a challenge and this year we decided to take on our biggest yet.” Kay told Ipswich24.

“We choose this event because it is about raising funds for Breast Cancer which is very close to our hearts as we have all know someone who has had this disease.”

Continued Kay, “It is also a great opportunity to not only help our members taking part to get even fitter, but to really push themselves and step out of their comfort zone. The benefits or taking part and raising funds will not only help cancer patients today, but with research that the event funds, the future health of us all.”

Walk the Walk came into being 1996 when just 13 women Power Walked the New York City Marathon in their bras to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. What started out as a one-off fundraising event, has blossomed into a thriving multi-million pound charity, raising to date in excess of £100 million for vital breast cancer causes. This is the 20th MoonWalk London and this year’s theme is roaring 20’s so the Kay’s Fit Girl team are very much looking forward to dressing up their Bra’s ready to wear on the big night.

Training is well underway with the team walking twice a week gradually building up to the 26.2 miles they will have to do on the night in their Bras!!

• Some of the Kay’s Fit Girls team ahead of their challenge.

“We are all very excited but also nervous as only two within the team have completed a walk of this distance before, but we are determined to do it” concluded Kay. The Kay’s Fit Girls team have a target of £2,000 to raise and if anyone would like to donate please visit their fundraising page: www.moonwalklondon2017.everydayhero.com/uk/kays-fit-girls/members

Ford’s Focus

with Daniel Ford

Sporting Bucket List As an avid sports fan there are certain things you simply have to do during your life. One of them is to go to Twickenham and watch England play rugby. Luckily enough I was given the opportunity to do this when my parents bought our family tickets to watch this year’s England vs Italy game (now that’s what I call a Christmas present!)

Having never watched a live rugby union match I went into the game with no idea of what to expect, it’s fair to say the day delivered a few surprises…

We arrived in London well before kick-off, and after paying £15 to park on some strangers driveway (clearly they weren’t stupid) made our way to the stadium. To be totally honest I was slightly distracted, the East Anglian derby was taking place simultaneously during our walk to the stadium, meaning I was checking my phone every two minutes. After trying and failing to find a pub to watch the game in, we set about solving the small problem of what to have for lunch. For the first time ever my sister came up with a good

suggestion! I know miracles are possible! Her recommendation of a hog roast proved inspired and I would have gone home happy then without having seen any rugby. However, this was never an option and I was filled with excitement as we reached the ground The stadium itself is multifaceted, the hideous ageing stone outside juxtaposes dramatically with the wonderful view inside. Having taken in this view and absorbed the atmosphere I was ready for the game to begin…

It was weird. That’s the best way I can describe the whole experience of the match. For starters, in the first half especially the Italians caused the whole stadium confusion via their tactics, which I am not even going to attempt to explain.

Furthermore, the whole concept of a continuous flow of people in and out of their seats was a new experience for me, the crowd seemed to enjoy when players were injured as it allowed them to refill their respective alcoholic beverages.

Perhaps most peculiar of all was the fact that we only sang one song, ‘Swing low sweet chariot’

echoed round the stadium multiple times, yet I was waiting for songs to be struck up about individual players, these never materialised though.

However, I’d be doing the occasion an injustice to say there weren’t some things I enjoyed.

The crescendo of noise slowly building up until it reached a raucous cacophony, every time England scored a try, was really something to behold. Also, the fact that the Italians mingled in with the English fans was another factor I enjoyed.

Overall, perhaps my education as a football fan slightly affected this experience, yet it says a lot that I would bite your hand off if anyone offered me the chance to go again. Maybe the beer goggles that were seemingly being worn by most of the crowd are the key accessory needed for maximum enjoyment, although I wouldn’t like to wear one’s as strong as the man who though I was Italian! I will always love rugby but even after this experience I’m still a football man through and through.

You can write to Dan c/o Ipswich24, Suite 9, 85 Dales Road, Ipswich IP1 4JR or email daniel@ipswich24.co.uk 18

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Rushmere Golf Club Women’s Get into Golf Get into golf coaching is the national campaign to get people golfing and is currently taking place across several clubs in Suffolk.

Get into golf focuses on group coaching that takes place in a fun and social environment and gives those taking part a taste for the sport, at an affordable price. The sessions are ideal for those who are looking to start playing golf or want to return to the sport. The majority of the coaching courses take place for one hour a week over a four-week period. At all clubs this then leads into the opportunity for further improvers coaching or to go out on the golf course and play. Equipment is provided at all sessions so all you need to do is book online and get ready to have lots of fun whilst learning a new skill! This has certainly been the case at recent Get into golf sessions at Rushmere Golf Club.

Women’s Get Into Golf proves a big hit at Rushmere Golf Club!

Rushmere Golf Club are one of the clubs in Suffolk who run Get into golf coaching. They have had a very successful women’s session running from September last year and this has continued right through the winter months. “We have had a really good group of eight carry on

right through winter. The improvement has been massive from those taking part and we’ve had a lot of fun along the way. It’s great to see all of the group now looking to play and practice outside of the coaching too. Our aim is to give those taking

part the confidence to go out on the course and give golf a go.” (Kelvin Vince – PGA Professional at Rushmere Golf Club).

This has certainly been the case for Joan Gosden and her daughter Sarah, who have been regulars at the coaching sessions since October 2016.

“I’ve lived near to Rushmere for a number of years and regularly walk across the course, but I’d never really considered taking up golf.” said Joan. “My husband is a member at Rushmere and I was extremely surprised when he came home from the club one day and said he had

booked me and my daughter onto a Get into golf course. At first I was a little apprehensive as I had never played before, but I thought it would be something we could go to together and see if we enjoyed it. Having now taken part in the Get into golf coaching for six months, I’m delighted that we gave it a go! Kelvin has been extremely patient with us and is always enthusiastic and helpful throughout the coaching sessions. We initially started hitting some shots on the practice ground and using the putting green, but now we are out on the golf course most weeks and playing some of the different holes together. I feel more confident after each session and now feel comfortable going out on the golf course outside of our Get into golf lessons.

“Sarah and I have recently joined the club as members and can’t wait to play the course regularly. We both love being outdoors and although golf is challenging, we are eager to keep going and to see if we can improve further.

“I would recommend Get into golf to anyone who is looking to take up a new sport or learn a new skill. The lessons have been enjoyable right from the word go and Rushmere is a really friendly environment to learn to play golf in.”

Visit www.getintogolf.org/suffolk to view the Get into golf sessions starting soon at Rushmere and other golf clubs across Suffolk.

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Pet Fans of the UK Unite National Pet Month, now in its 28th year, is a nationwide celebration that promotes responsible pet ownership and helps people raise much-needed funds for UK pet charities. It’s easy for anyone to get involved, from social media chats using the hashtag #NationalPetMonth to organising or attending events.

Pets play a valuable role in our lives and National Pet Month’s main theme this year is ‘There’s a pet out there for you’, highlighting that there is a pet out there for everyone, whatever walk of life you’re from, but it’s important to choose the best fit for your lifestyle.

Michael Bellingham, Chairman of National Pet Month, said, “National Pet Month is an umbrella charity, offering a fantastic opportunity to join together to celebrate our country’s great love of pets, to remind us of the importance of taking good care of our pets and to help people raise funds for the UK’s incredible pet charities who help so many pets in need.

“Check out our five simple ways to get involved during National Pet Month, whether it’s to raise awareness or raise funds. We can promote what you do through our social media channels and the events map on our website – www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk” National Pet Month launches on Saturday 1st April with a Twitter virtual launch party between 4pm and 6pm, where pet fans can join in the fun online, talk all things pet and enter our competitions where there’ll be some awesome prizes up for grabs.

Look out for your Twitter party ‘invite’ on the social media channels in the coming weeks and search for #NPMLaunch and #NationalPetMonth to be part of the launch on April 1st.

Ryder-Davies & Partners Veterinary Surgeons

Taking care of all your animals 24 hour care provided by our own vets & nurses Experienced team of caring vets and nurses. Well equipped practice with full surgical facilities, in-house laboratory, ultra-sound, x-ray, dental facilities, nurses clinics, micro-chipping, puppy socialisation classes.

Health Plans available for dogs, cats, rabbits & horses to help you spread the cost of preventative health care.

To find out more call us on

Woodbridge 01394 380083, Rendlesham 01394 420964 Felixstowe 01394 284554 or Ipswich 01473 274040 www.ryder-daviesvets.co.uk

Established for over 40 years

Five simple ways pet fans can join in National Pet Month 2017: 1. Register as an NPM supporter on at www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk/_ members/ It’s free and only takes a minute.

2. Follow on social media and let’s talk pets www.fb.com/NationalPetMonth, www.fb.com/JoinScratchingPost (cat fans), www.fb.com/JoinParkBench (dog fans) and on Twitter @NatPetMonthUK Look out for regular blogs, competitions, fun facts and news.

3. Tell your friends about National Pet Month and get your local vet practices, pet shops, businesses and pet charities involved by staging a fundraising event for a favourite UK pet charity - sponsored dog walks, pet themed fairs and fetes, a take your dog to work day or a pet friendly church service are all great fundraisers. Check out the website for ideas and tips on how to promote your event too.

4. Get your kids’ school involved.

With valuable input from TV vet Marc Abraham, there are great pet themed lesson plans which can be downloaded from http://www. nationalpetmonth.org.uk/schools 5. Have an inspiring rescue pet story to share? Tell them about it and you could feature on the NPM blog. Email stories@ turquoisetiger.co.uk • For more information on National Pet Month 2017 go to www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk

April 1st - May 1st

How eDogAdvisor can make your dog as happy as Larry We all love our dogs and want the best for them. But do we really know what makes them happy and healthy? Find out in a short video ‘As Happy as Larry’ produced by eDogAdvisor – the UK’s Dog Review Website.

There has never been so much choice for dog owners. Every year we spend over £10 billion on our furry friends. But that money’s not always well spent and our dogs can’t tell us when they’re unhappy. In this new video, our canine hero Larry and his devoted owner Sally discover how eDogAdvisor can make him as happy as Larry. eDogAdvisor is the UK’s leading dog review website, bringing thousands of independent reviews from dog owners together in a single place, from food, to vets, insurance, walkers and minders and places to go with your dog.

Richard Jaques, Co-founder of eDogAdvisor says “At eDogAdvisor we’re passionate about helping dog owners get the best for their dog, but there’s a real lack of independent information out there to help people make informed choices. Our new video ‘As Happy as Larry, shows how eDogAdvisor can change this. Every dog has the right to be as Happy as Larry”.

About eDogAdvisor - eDogAdvisor is a unique, fast growing, independent, ‘petworking’ review website where UK dog owners can review, rate and find all the services and products they need in one place. It enables them to make informed choices and is fast becoming the ‘go-to’ website for UK dog owners keen to get the best for their dogs.

For more information on eDogAdvisor, visit edogadvisor.co.uk

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Hydrotherapy suite awarded official canine accreditation Happi days is proud to announce that their hydrotherapy suite has proven to be of such a high standard that they have been awarded accreditation as a member of the Canine Hydrotherapy Association.

Helen Brown (owner) has taken time out from the busy dog crèche and boarding business to take the hydrotherapy qualification and spends her time helping heal dogs that have undergone operations or need help healing after injuries. She also enjoys taking dogs into the Happi pool for leisure and for fitness. So if your dog has a health or healing requirement, or just wants to come and swim, then Happi days is your first port of call.

Dogs can suffer from serious health conditions, mobility issues, musculoskeletal conditions, and long-term chronic conditions. These are often difficult to spot as dogs are incredibly loyal and will often not show signs of pain until it really is too much to bare due to their love and desire to please! We are very lucky to have such wonderful animals in our life, by utilising physiotherapy and hydrotherapy Happi days’ rehabilitation suite can help animals be pain free during their daily lives and/or increase performance in working and sporting dogs.

Lisa Warrington specialises in veterinary physiotherapy for dogs and has recently joined Happi days Dog Day Care Centre. Lisa’s involvement with Happidays brings physiotherapy and hydrotherapy under one roof as part of a complete rehabilitation plan. All animals benefit from physiotherapy whether a domestic pet or a top performance athlete.

Lisa’s training has involved two years at Masters’ level (level 7) training in veterinary physiotherapy at Writtle College in conjunction with NAVP (National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists).

“I currently have a working cocker spaniel who takes part in agility and is a fully-fledged member of the physio team, and gets regular sessions to ensure she is at the peak of her fitness and to reduce the chance of injury later in her life.”

The treatments target pain and weakness throughout the entire body.

Increase comfort by improving strength and stability of weakened muscles. Increase mobility and flexibility enhancing your dog’s wellbeing and overall comfort, reducing risk of re-injury. Maintains movement and function of older animals and manages and improves chronic conditions.

Additionally, for performance animals, ensures they are in peak condition for competitions.

The most exciting thing about this clinic is that you are always welcome to come and join in at the poolside for moral support for your dog and if you wish even accompany them in the large hydrotherapy pool.

Lisa, Helen and all the team at Happi days look forward to meeting you.

• For more information contact Happi days Dog Day Care on 01394 420 468 or 01473 623 661 or visit www.happidayscentre.co.uk

Signs of needing treatment include: • Any accident or injury

• Change in behavior/temperament • Slowing down on walks or stiffness • Lack of interest in playing or going for a walk • Always sitting to one side • Lying down excessively • Difficulty getting up, getting into car or managing stairs • An appearance of skipping • An impression of waddling • Reduction of performance, knocking poles or running out 21

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Every Monday

Carpet Bowls, Tuddenham St Martin Village Hall, 6.30pm, New members welcome - come and try to see if you like it, only £1 per session. For more details contact Ray 01473 610067 Ballroom and Latin American Dance Classes, Kesgrave High School, Main Road, Kesgrave, Suffolk, Beginners welcome, 7pm, for further details www.danceasy.co.uk. £5 per person, Telephone Sharon 07946 347167 or Graham 07790 230651 Free Creative Workshops, The Avenue Theatre, Gippeswyk Hall, Gippeswyk Avenue, Ipswich, 2pm - 4.30pm, Inside Out Community, an Ipswich based mental health charity provides free creative workshops including ‘Making Your Mark’-for young people aged 18 - 25, giving them the opportunity to explore their creativity in a friendly and supportive environment, info@insideoutcommunity.com or 07947 565711 for more information.

Body Moves & Dance Class, with Linda, St James Catholic Church Hall, 482 Landseer Rd, Ipswich, 7.45pm - 9.15pm, A Fun & Friendly class, try a free taster session for more info Call Linda 01394 273033 Al-Anon Family Groups support for families and friends of alcoholics, Museum Street Methodist Church Hall, 17 Black Horse Lane, Ipswich, The meeting is located in the hall behind the Museum St Methodist Church, accessed from Black Horse Lane, 02074 030888, www.al-anonuk.org.uk for other groups in the Ipswich area, (not held on bank holidays.)

Badminton, Sidegate Lane Community Centre Ipswich 7.30pm -10pm £2.50 per session new members welcome for info contact Ann 01473 726423 Pilates, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 1.45pm - 2.45pm, £5 per class, New members welcome. For further details contact 07763 456078.

Badminton, Handford Hall School, Gatacre Rd, Ipswich, 7.15pm - 9.30pm, experienced players and beginners always very welcome, for a free taster session or more information please contact Adrian 07773 456078 Ballroom and Latin Class, Goals Centre, Suffolk New College, Grimwade Street, Ipswich, IP4 1LT, 6.30pm - 7.30pm, 01473 251323, 07736 306519 Yoga, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 10am - 11am, £3.50 per session, New members welcome. For further information contact: 07773 456078 Suffolk Promenaders Square Dance Club Rushmere Village Hall, Humber Doucy Lane, Ipswich, 7.30pm - 10pm, Only £3.00, tea and coffee provided, Contact 01473 415785 or 01473 422663 for details.

Badminton, Suffolk New Academy Sports Centre, Birkfield Drive, Ipswich, 6pm - 7pm, Beginners and experienced players welcome, Come along for your free first session or call/text Gill 07706 044861 or Peter 07802 173041 for more information.

Every Tuesday

Tea Dances with Teresa, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, IP4 4HZ, 2pm - 4 pm, £3 with refreshments, Details 01473 422427, www.sidegatelanecommunitycentre.org.uk Carpet Bowls, Nacton Village Hall, IP10 0EU, 7.30pm, Come and have a go. First three visits free, then £2 per evening if you like us and want to stay, A sociable and fun evening, just turn up!

Do you have one hour for Fun? Music?

Dance? Join Jane of Suffolk Keep Fit Association at Woodbridge Community Centre Woodbridge. 9.45am 10.45am, Contact Jane 07860 824747

Craft Club, The Salvation Army Priory Centre, Queens Way, Ipswich, 10am – 12pm, A relaxed friendly group for all abilities. Sewing, knitting, crochet and other crafts, £1 per session, Refreshments and lunch available, For more info 01473 710721, Ipswich. priory@salvationarmy.org.uk Carpet Bowls, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 7.30pm – 10pm, £2.50 per session, New members welcome. For more details contact Tony Crane 01473 410740.

Table Tennis. All standards and ages 7.30pm to 9pm, Lindsey Village Hall (next to the church), Lindsey (near Hadleigh), IP7 6PP, £2, further information 07768 828362 Art Group, Castle Hill Community Centre, Highfield Road, Ipswich, 1.30pm – 3.30pm, all welcome, for details phone 07443 630072 Co-op Ladies Choir meet at The Co-op Education Centre from 2.15pm to 3.30pm, Come and join this busy choir, performing on average 15 times a year, A friendly group, who enjoy singing to a high standard, If you would like to join us please contact Lynn Scannell 01473 710820 Senior Singers, Co-op Education Centre, Fore Street, Ipswich, 10.30am – 12pm, Male & Female singers, 55 plus, join in this long established & friendly group of singers, No auditions, Call Vera Manning 01473 462795, Martlesham Heath Country Market, The Pavilion, The Square, Martlesham Heath, 9am, homemade, home-grown, and home-crafted items for sale. For further information Tel 01473 623849 or www.martleshammarket.co.uk

Every Wednesday

Orwell Panthers Athletic Club for athletes with disabilities, aged 10+, Northgate Sports Centre between 6.15pm - 7.30pm, See website “orwellpanthers.co.uk” for more information Ballroom and Latin Dance Classes, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, IP4 4HZ, 7pm - 8pm Refreshers, 8-10pm Improvers, £3pp, Contact 01473 723070 Creative Writing Group, Arlington’s Brasserie, 13 Museum St, Ipswich IP1 1HE, 7.30pm - 9.30pm, First session free, for further information ring Mai on 01473 711639 or go to suffolkwritersgroup.com Tea Dance, Hintlesham Community Hall, Timperleys, Hintlesham, 2pm - 4pm at £4 per person, coffee/tea and biscuits/cakes provided, Sequence/ballroom/latin dancing, contact Teresa 01473 422427 Co-op Singers meet every Wednesday in term time from 7.30pm to 9pm, Co-op Education Centre Fore Street Ipswich. Car parking is available - entrance from Waterworks St. New members welcome, no auditions, For further information telephone Margie 01473 727829 or Julie 07986261503.

Art & Craft Group, Body and MindSports Centre, Birkfield Drive, Ipswich, 7.30pm – 9.30pm, all welcome, for details phone 07443 630072 The Phoenix Women’s Group Meeting, The Quakers Friends Meeting House, 39 Fonnereau Road, Ipswich, 10am -12pm, For more info telephone 07976 768763 or email:Ip.Phoenix@Virginmedia.com

Every Thursday

Body Moves & Dance Class with Linda, Girl Guiding Building, Garrison Lane Felixstowe, 7.30pm - 9pm, A Fun & Friendly Class, try A Free Taster Session for more info call Linda 01394 273033

EVENTS

guide

Cafechat, The Salvation Army Priory Centre, Queens Way, Ipswich, 10.30am -12pm, A free drop in group for the elderly with a mixture of activities including armchair exercises, table top games and discussion, Refreshments and pre-booked lunches available, For more info 01473 710721, ipswich.priory@salvationarmy.org.uk Woodbridge Tap Dance Classes, St John’s Church Hall, 10am -11am, Friendly, informal tap class for Adult Improvers, More info: woodbridgetapdance.weebly.com or Call/Text Jill Streatfeild on 07778 746315 Yoga, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 10am - 11am, £3.30 per class, New members welcome, For more details contact 01473 727796 Art Group, Harkstead Village Hall, Harkstead, 10am – 12pm, all welcolme, 01473 787633 Badminton, Handford Hall School, Gatacre Rd, Ipswich, 7.15pm - 9.30pm, experienced players and beginners always very welcome, for a free taster session or more information contact Adrian 01473 464920 Carpet Bowls, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 2pm – 4.15pm, £2.80 includes tea & Biscuits, for further information telephone 01473 725274, Woodbridge Country Market, Woodbridge Community Hall, next to Deben Pool, 10am - 11.15am, Local Home Produced Food, Plants, Vegetables and Hand made crafts for sale, Comfortable tea room to meet your friends, Open to all Free Entry.

Ipswich Country Market, Rushmere Village Hall, Humber Douncy Lane, Ipswich, 10.15am - 11.30am, Lots of home baked and handcrafted items available as well as Gluten free produces and local honey. Seasonal fruit and vegetables hand-picked the day before. Free parking and tea and coffee refreshments available, great meeting place for new and old friends.

Coffee and Chat: informal coffee morning with activities, 10am – 12pm, All Saints Church Hall Blenheim Road, Ipswich

Every Friday

Felixstowe Country Market, Trades & Labour Club, High Road West, Felixstowe, 10am – 11am, www.country-markets.co.uk Art Group, The Salvation Army Priory Centre, Queens Way, Ipswich, 10am – 12pm, £2 per session, An informal group of mixed abilities with lots of chatter, Refreshments and lunch available, For more info 01473 710721, ipswich.priory@salvationarmy.org.uk

*Submissions listed subject to space availability.

Have your Event or Gig Listed Free!!* Email: info@ipswich24.co.uk Post: Suite 9, 85 Dales Rd, Ipswich IP1 4JR

Carpet Bowls, Sidegate Lane Community Centre Ipswich, 2pm - 5pm, £2.50, per session, New Members very welcome, for more details contact Tony Crane on 01473 410740

Every Saturday

The Lion’s Club of Felixstowe Car Boot Sale, Sunday Market site, Sea Road, Felixstowe, 8am – 1pm, Free entry to the public, Car boot pitches £6 for up to 3 tables (No traders allowed).

Volleyball with Ipswich Ravens, St Alban’s School, Ipswich, 2pm - 4pm, Beginners or experienced, adults (£6) and juniors age 13 upwards (£3), Call or text Steve 07584 636669

Every Sunday

Frog Squad Sunday Kids Club, Salvation Army Bramford Road, 11.30am to 12.15pm, all children from 3 to 12 very welcome for stories singing and games

Ipswich24 cannot be held responsible for cancellation of events, if in doubt contact the venue before travelling. More events can be found at www.ipswich24.co.uk 22

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Wed 27th Mar

Ipswich Transport Society Meeting, Bridge Ward Club, 68 Austin Street, Ipswich, IP2 8DF, 7.30pm, £2, Speaker: Chris Gosling on Shipping TV – Shipping Around the Haven Ports.

Thu 30th Mar

Chair Based Exercise (Qi gong) and Mediation Session, Woodbridge Library, New Street, Woodbridge, 2pm – 3pm, Aimed at older people, session of gentle relaxed movement and meditation with Roy Wadland, certified instructor for the Tai Chi Union for Great Britain.

Sat 1st Apr

Trinity Church Spring Fayre, Hamilton Road, Felixstowe, 10am – 3.30pm, Good quality bric a brac, jewellery, books, cd’s/dvd’s, toys, games, fun stalls, cakes, quality adult and children’s clothing, Lunches and refreshments. Free admission.

Sun 2nd Apr

Copdock Antiques & Collectors Fair, The Ipswich Hotel, Old London Road, Copdock, Ipswich, IP8 3JD, 9am – 3.30pm, Admission £2, Seniors & Students £1.50, 01702 410171

Tue 4th Apr

Ipswich Folk Dance, St John’s Church, Cowper Street, 8pm-10pm, First time free, then afterwards £2.50 for dance and refreshments. No experience necessary.

All welcome. For more information call 01473 710406 Hunt for Meadow Mini-beasts and become animal detectives, Foxburrow Farm, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Melton near Woodbridge IP12 1NA, 10.30am – 12.30am, Children £4, adults £2, Book online: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/, Telephone 01473 890089 Suffolk Youth Orchestra to perform Laura Rossi’s soundtrack to the IWM 1916 film The Battle of the Somme as part of Somme100 FILM’s international Centenary Tour. The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, www.suffolkmusichub.co.uk/events

Wed 5th Apr

Orwell Decorative and Fine Arts Society Monthly Meeting, Tower Hall, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU, 2.15pm, Illustrated Talk: ‘Hidden Canvasses: Street Art and the City’ by Doug Gillen, Non-members welcome for lecture, if space allows, £6 donation asked Wild Art, family morning, Foxburrow Farm, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Melton near Woodbridge IP12 1NA, 10.30am-12.30pm, Make a journal and nature crafts, Child £4 Adult £2, Telephone 01473 890089 or Book online: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org

Fri 7th Apr

Wild in the Garden, activity day, Foxburrow Farm, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Melton near Woodbridge IP12 1NA, Build bug homes, sow seeds and find animals hiding in the shrubbery, Child £7, Book online: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/, Telephone 01473 890089 Martlesham Heath Aviation Society Meeting, Main Hall, Martlesham Heath Community Centre, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Heath IP12 4PB, 7.30pm, Tim Brett, of Parham Airfield Museum, tells the fascinating and touching story of Parham based 390th Bomb Group B17 “Flying Fortress” aircraft - “Pistol Packing Momma” and its crew, This talk is staged with, and supports, The MH100 (Martlesham Heath) Centenary Celebrations, Members £3, non-members welcomed at £4. Pay at the door on arrival, For more information see: www.mhas.org.uk or call Howard on 01473 274300

Sat 8th Apr

Ipswich RSPB Local Group Field Meeting, A walk at RSPB Boyton and Hollesley Marsh Reserves.

Meet at 9.30am at Banters Barn Farm, Boyton. Map ref TM387475, Approx 3-4 hours. 4-5 miles, Contact 01473 258791, All welcome, Woolverstone Market, St Michael and All Angels, Woolverstone, 9am - 12.30pm, Locally grown and reared produce and hand crafted items, including cheese, meat, pies, pastries, bread, jewellery, hand spun wool, exclusive gifts for all occasions, Refreshments available and free parking, New stallholder welcome, Contact Jane Gould 01473 780777

Mon 10th Apr

The Ross Burkitt Family, Sorrel Horse Shottisham, 8.30pm, Local favourites, Ross Burkitt, Alison Ward, Eliza and Sam promise an exciting evening playing a beguiling mix of contemporary and traditional music.

This acoustic family band sing and play using guitars, cello, flute and violin, featuring tight harmonies and beautifully played arrangements of well chosen songs.

Tue 11th Apr

Easter Eggstavaganza, Foxburrow Farm, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Melton near Woodbridge, 1.30pm – 3.30pm, Easter trails, crafts and activities, Child £4, adult £2, Book online: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/, Telephone 01473 890089

Wed 12th Apr

Tea Dance, will take place at Christ Church, Tacket Street, Ipswich at 2pm, £2 including refreshments, All proceeds to Ipswich Deaf Social Club, All welcome.

Easter Eggstavaganza, Foxburrow Farm, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Melton near Woodbridge, 10.30am – 12.30pm, Easter trails, crafts and activities, Child £4, adult £2, Book online: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/, Telephone 01473 890089 Suffolk Industrial Archaeology Society Meeting, Ipswich Transport Museum, Cobham Road, Ipswich, 7.30pm, Speaker – Ray Whitehand, Topic – Caring for Suffolk’s Poor – Suffolk Workhouses, Further information – 01473 405116

EVENTS

guide

Thu 20th Apr

Ipswich RSPB Group Indoor Meeting, AGM followed by ‘80°N. Our Polar Voyage - Wildlife of the High Arctic’, an illustrated talk by Pat and Barry Hall, Ipswich Group Members, Rushmere St Andrew Church Hall, The Street, Rushmere, Ipswich, IP5 1DH, 7.30pm.

Admission: Local Group members £2.20 (concessions apply), Non-Members £4.00, Juniors £1.00, All welcome.

Sat 22nd Apr

Jumble Sale, Loraine Victory Hall, Ship Lane, Bramford, 12pm - 3pm, Clothes, linen, bric-a-brac and refreshments.

Trianon At St John’s, St John the Baptist Church, Cauldwell Hall Road, Ipswich IP4 4QE, 7.30pm, Tickets - from £9.50, cons from £8.50, students & U16 £6.50 (inc £1.50 booking fee) www.ipswichregent.com Ipswich Regent Box Office 01473 433100, Ipswich Tourist Information Centre, Or save the booking fee and book via the Trianon ticket line on 01394 283170 or 07876 787029. See www.tmg.org.uk for more information

Mon 24th Apr

Ipswich Transport Society Meeting, Bridge Ward Club, 68 Austin Street, Ipswich, 7.30pm, The Mid Norfolk Railway, presentation by a member of the Mid Norfolk Railway, Admittance £2, Further information on 01473 405116

Tue 25th Apr

East Suffolk National Trust Association, Ropes Hall Kesgrave, IP5 1JF, 7.15pm, Talk by Horry Parsons on the construction of the Millennium Tower at St Edmundsbury Cathedral. Free parking, entry fee for non ESNTA members £3, Website www.membershipesnta.btck.co.uk

Wed 26th Apr

Jumble Sale, 24th Ipswich Scout HQ330a, Bramford Road (next to railway bridge), Ipswich, 1pm - 3pm Silbury Hill in Concert, White Horse Pub, Sweffling, near, Saxmundham, 8pm, Entry Free

IDHTS Meeting, Salvation Army Citadel 558 Woodbridge Road Ipswich IP4 4PH, 7pm, The History & Success of Sanders Coaches illustrated by Charles Sanders. Visitors welcome via rear door, Admission £3.50 including refreshments, Details 01473 422145/01473 414746.

Shopping Day in aid of Cancer Research UK, Chamberlin Hall, Chamberlin Close, Wattisham Road, Bildeston, IP7 7EZ, 10am - 2pm, Hot Footed ladies quality shoes & sandals, ladies clothes, jewellery, accessories for all and more... £3 Entrance (£2 after 1pm), Refreshments & light lunches available available.

World Book Night Quiz, Woodbridge Library, Doors open at 7pm, quiz starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are £3.00 per person, maximum 4 per team, pre-register team name in advance, All proceeds go to Friends of Woodbridge Library. Prizes, raffle, bring your own drink, To book your team’s place, please email Woodbridge Library at woodbridge.library@suffolklibraries.co.uk or phone 01394 446510.

Tue 18th Apr

Mon 1st May

Fri 14th Apr – Mon 17th Apr

43rd East Anglian Art Exhibition and Sale, Community Centre, School Road, Needham Market, IP6 8BB, 10am – 5pm, Over 700 paintings under one roof, raising funds for local projects, Admission £2, children free, Preview Cheese and Wine evening, your best opportunity to purchase on Thursday 13th April, tickets £8 in advance, Contact: 01449 720845 / nmccartexhibition@btinternet.com

Sat 15th Apr

Ipswich RSPB Local Group Midweek Walk round Bridge Wood Ipswich. Meet at 10am at Orwell Country Park car park, Approx 2 hrs, Map ref TM188408, Contact 01473 714839, All welcome.

Ipswich Folk Dance, St John’s Church, Cowper Street, 8pm-10pm, First time free, then afterwards £2.50 for dance and refreshments. No experience necessary, as all dances are called. All welcome, come and have fun. For more information call 01473 710406

Mendlesham Street Fayre, Old Market Street, Mendlesham, 10.30am - 5pm, Stalls, Marching band, Samba Band, The Tricky Twister, Morris Men, Belly Dancers, Stacks of Sax Band, Hog Roast, Bygone vehicles, Birds of Prey, Refreshments, Free Car Park, Look out for: Bridie the Tea Lady on Stilts (Britain’s Got Talent!), Admission £3 Adults, Children free, For stall bookings phone 01449 766483 or 01449 766006.

Deadline for May submissions Friday 7th April - email listings@ipswich24.co.uk

*Submissions listed subject to space availability.

Have your Event or Gig Listed Free!!* Email: info@ipswich24.co.uk Post: Suite 9, 85 Dales Rd, Ipswich IP1 4JR

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Dark Comedy from the Bard

• Eastern Edge in rehearsal

Eastern Edge brings a contemporised retelling of Shakespeare’s dark comedy, The Two Gentlemen of Verona to Red Rose Chain’s The Avenue Theatre this spring.

Eastern Edge Theatre Company is a youth led theatre company for young people aged from 15 years. The purpose of the group is to provide young people in the Ipswich and Felixstowe areas with opportunities in all aspects of making theatre. They are the only youth led theatre group in Suffolk engaging young people in performing, directing, choreography, music and all aspects of theatre production.

• The Two Gentlemen of Verona will be performed Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd April. Tickets, costing just £10 can be purchased at www.ticketsource.co.uk/eastern-edge-theatre-company

A Spectacular Trip Back Down Memory Lane Neil Sands invites you to join him and his wonderful West End cast at The Ipswich Corn Exchange on Wednesday 14th June at 2pm, as part of their 40 date nationwide tour of his brand new matinee production Music & Memories.

Over the past eleven years Neil Sands productions have become widely recognised as the leading matinee nostalgia producers in the UK, with 9 totally unique and individual productions, filled with spectacular costumes, brilliant vocals and tons of good old fashioned fun.

“For this our newest production we really have pulled out all the stops to make it our best and biggest yet.” said Neil. “There is no doubt that music really does play such an important part in our lives, from nursery rhymes, to the first pop record we bought, from you and your loved ones ‘Our song’ to music that brings back happy and even bitter sweet memories and music that stirs your emotions and fills you with patriotic pride. Music stimulates the brain and is a truly beneficial tool in helping those with severe memory loss”.

Music & Memories is a sentimental journey full of happy memories from times gone bye with old time sing alongs, Forties favourites,

rocking through the Fifties and Swinging through the Sixties, ever popular show favourites, and a heartwarming flag waving finale paying tribute to the veterans of the Armed Forces.

Joining Neil for this production are Gemma Turner – whose captivating voice has drawn comparisons with that of Katherine Jenkins – and Stars In Their Eyes winner Angie Diggens, two supremely talented singers who are no strangers to the West End stage. A highlight of the show is their breathtaking duet of the legendary classical aria Nessun Dorma.

Neil enthused about the forthcoming visit to The Corn Exchange, “With a tour like this that takes us all around the country it’s a joy to play your home town. The Corn Exchange has always held a huge place in my heart, and after the brilliant afternoon we had there with our Christmas production I am really looking forward to meeting many old and new friends for an afternoon that is guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face, a song on your lips and a head full of precious memories”.

• To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 433100.

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Jumping shows from the get go!

This month at the Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe kicks off with the Upbeat Beatles on Saturday 1st April. As the name suggests you’ll be jumping from the get go with this band! Eight bars of ‘Twist and Shout’ and you’ll see why!

Thursday 6th sees the return of The Good Old Music Hall Days at 2.30pm with very special guests Andrew Van Buren and Andrew Robley. If you overlooked them last time around you missed an enormously popular show – if you saw it you’ll know this show, presented by Leo Shavers, brings you the cream of variety and takes you back in time.

The Bay City Rollers roll into town Friday 7th April so have your tartan scarves at the ready to rock with Les McKeown and his band and enjoy all the original hits including ‘Bye, bye baby’ and ‘Shang-a-lang’ plus songs from their new album. The

magic doesn’t stop there as direct from London’s West End comes not one but five world class illusionists for one incredible show on Saturday 8th April at 7.30pm – Champions of Magic.

With Easter just around the corner The Spa has two family shows; firstly Humpty Dumpty’s Easter Eggstravaganza Panto performed by the Dennis Lowe Theatre Company on Saturday 15th April at 10.30am and also 2.30pm and then for the younger audience there’s Easter Bunny’s Eggs-elent Adventure on Friday 21st April at 1.30pm.

Just to give you a flavour of what’s to follow in May; Islands in the Stream and in this month’s Ipswich24 Magazine we are also featuring a competition to win tickets for this show stacked with country music’s greatest hits on Saturday 13th May (see page 5).

Before Dolly and Kenny, The Blues Brothers are on stage on the 6th May and later in the month it’s The Bryan Adams Experience and Avenue Q on the Spa’s stage so

Jose Agudo – Silk Road

there’s plenty to check out via their website www.felixstowespa.co.uk where you can also sign up for their newsletter to hear of new shows as soon as they come on sale.

Tickets for all shows can also be booked by calling the Box Office on 01394 284962, open Tuesday to

Sunday from 11am until 4pm. Have you visited their two restaurants yet? Open every day until 5pm (plus two hours before each show) and enjoy a roast, sandwiches and tapas, breakfast or simply a cool beer or warming hot chocolate whilst enjoying the unrivalled waterside vista.

Saints Beer & Folk Festival

Ipswich is launching the first ‘Saints Beer & Folk Fest’ this April with headline acts that would grace the most established of UK folk festivals.

BBC Folk Award Winner Sam Carter will be performing on a Saturday Night bill alongside renowned International Acoustic Music Awards Winner Charlie Dore, and her long-time collaborator Julian Littman from Steeleye Span. While the Friday Night Folk line-up is loaded with the region’s folk talent, including Suffolk-based artists Honey & The Bear and Holly Johnston.

Saints Beer & Folk Fest will take place on 28th and 29th April at St. Peters By The Waterfront and promises something different for music and beer enthusiasts alike, “We really wanted to create something new and unique for Ipswich, and so in addition to the fantastic Folk Night line-ups, a special selection of real ales, ciders and summer wines fitting of the occasion will be available.” says event coordinator Greg Cooper of Beer&Co “We also have two days of live open-mic, a pop-up music shop and locally sourced Suffolk street food for festival visitors.

“This has been made possible by the collaborative efforts of a few brilliant partners including Stephen Foster, GrapevineLIVE, West End Music and Silbury Hill, who will also be playing Saturday Folk Night.

So, we are sure everyone will have a fantastic experience when they visit this stunning venue, and I’m sure this festival will become a regular folk fixture.”

Daytime entry (12-7pm) only £3 on the door, tickets for the evening Folk Nights are available from www.beerandco.uk

JOSÉ AGUDO

A celebration of diverse cultures and dances as strong, yet as delicate, as silk itself. Silk Road is a fascinating and vibrant exploration through dance, of rituals that took place along this ancient trade route across Asia, revealing the lesser-known connection between classical Indian dance and Flamenco.

SILK ROAD

Images of pilgrims, monks, traders and urban dwellers create a universal, yet personal story of East meets West in the 21st century. Collaborating with classical Indian dancer Mavin Khoo, José Agudo weaves his Flamenco routes with a unique, contemporary style.

A celebration of diverse cultures combining classical Indian dance and Flamenco

José has performed with, among others, Shobana Jeyasingh Dance and Ballet de Marseille, and has collaborated with Akram Khan Company since 2011 on DESH, the 2012 London Olympic Games opening ceremony, iTMOI, TOROBAKA and Chotto Desh (at DanceEast in 2015).

FRIDAY 28 APRIL | 7.30PM

Tickets from £12, £9 concessions

Don’t miss this preview performance at DanceEast in Ipswich prior to the world premiere in London on 4th May. Agudo Dance Company is producing Silk Road in collaboration with internationally renowned Bharata Natyam and contemporary dancer Mavin Khoo as part of his associate artist with ZfinMalta.

José Agudo – Silk Road will be at the DanceEast, Jerwood DanceHouse, Foundry Lane, Ipswich on Friday 28th April. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 295230 or visit www.danceeast.co.uk 25

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The Best of BE Festival Travel across Europe in one exhilarating night with three of BE FESTIVAL’s favourite stage performances from across the continent.

Late spring marks • Picture Alex Brenner the annual tour of Birmingham’s BE FESTIVAL as they pack their bags and journey up and down the country with three of their favourite European shows from last year’s summer festival.

Taking place over three weeks between 21st of April and 8th May, the tour will visit eight English cities.

With the impending political separation of the UK from Europe, never has there been a better time to remind ourselves of the wealth and diversity of European culture and celebrate cross continental creativity.

The directors of Birmingham’s BE FESTIVAL are Spaniards, Miguel Oyarzun and Isla Aguilar who came across the idea of building a pan-European festival community in Birmingham back in 2009. In those eight years, the festival’s resolve to showcase a range of new and emerging performers from across Europe has grown ever stronger. Each year the festival invites performers and companies to a weeklong summer festival of performing arts with a whole range of genrebending and border-crossing theatre, dance, circus,

visual arts, comedy, food and music shows with activities, debates and workshops joining the dots and adding a narrative to the proceedings.

Third brandnew panto

The New Wolsey Theatre have announced another brand new rock’n’roll pantomime for 20172018… Red Riding Hood will run from Thursday 23rd November 2017 until Saturday 27th January 2018.

Written by Peter Rowe, and performed in the New Wolsey Theatre’s iconic actor-musician style, this brand new adaptation of the classic tale is brimming with fun, frolics… and flour!

Every year BE FESTIVAL sends three of their favourite performances from the previous year’s festival on the road – giving theatres and audiences around the country a sense of the ethos of the festival where creative disciplines are blurred and the relationships between audience and artist, stage and auditorium are reconfigured.

Every date of the tour includes three separate shows, each lasting 30 minutes, with companies from Italy, Switzerland and Germany on stage. At the end of the night, there will be an opportunity for audience members to pose questions to the performers with a Q & A and discussion.

Find out more and book tickets at wolseytheatre.co.uk

Red Riding Hood owns the best bakery in Soggy-Bottom-In-TheMarsh but when the village party is scattered by the return of the legendary lone Wolf, the wicked Sir Jasper de Ville demands more rent to pay for the added security.

So it’s all hands to the pudding bowl as everyone lends a hand at the bakers, even her grandmother, Dame Millicent Merry, famous for her firm buns and magnificent dumplings! Meanwhile, a handsome woodcutter has arrived in town, who isn’t all he seems to be…

Book now for a howling good time!

• Tickets are on sale no and can be booked through the Tickets Sales Team by calling 01473 295900 or by booking online at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

10 DAYS OF INSPIRING NEW THEATRE 10 SHOWS ON SALE NOW! THU 1 - SAT 10 JUNE PULSEIPSWICH.CO.UK 01473 295900 #PULSE17 26

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Elgar’s choral masterpiece Gippeswyk Singers and Beccles Choral Society proudly present Elgar’s choral masterpiece to delight music lovers in Suffolk this Spring.

Prepare to have your heart strings tugged by the sheer beauty and emotion of what is considered to be Elgar’s finest choral work.

This exciting musical event brings together 200 musicians including two choirs from the north and south of Suffolk, joined by the Lambeth Orchestra at Snape Maltings Concert Hall on Saturday 13th May at 7.30pm.

Geoff Lavery brings his formidable talent and experience as a musical director and conductor to the production which features soloists Claire Weston (former principal soprano with ENO), Richard Edgar-Wilson (internationally acclaimed tenor) and Philip Tebb (outstanding oratorio bass soloist).

Elgar wrote the “The Dream of Gerontius” in 1900. The work is set to a poem by John Henry Newman that describes a soul’s journey through death to find enlightenment and the glory of God, guided by an Angel. Elgar himself said,

“This is the best of me. I have written my heart’s blood into the score.”

Be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment and to experience what promises to be a unique and memorable performance of Elgar’s “Dream” in Suffolk’s stunning world class concert hall.

Tickets are now on sale (£10 - £22) from Sarah Bush on 01508 480462 or Snape Maltings Box Office on 01728 687110.

• For further information please visit websites: www.gippeswyksingers.co.uk and www.beccleschoralsociety.co.uk

A Dog, a Brass Band An evening with an author and Snow, plus superb operatic performances

The author Hamish Macgibbon will be talking about his forthcoming book Stalin’s Maverick Spy which tells the story of his parents, their interaction with the Communist party and their flirtation with wartime espionage.

Hamish MacGibbon will be appearing at the Ipswich Institute Reading Room (15 Tavern Street, IP1 3AA) on Thursday 13th April as part of the Suffolk Book League’s 2017 programme of events.

This particular event is free for members as it is also the League’s AGM. Doors will be open for members only at 6.30pm. AGM starts at 7pm (Members Only). General admission is £8 with students free. To book tickets email tickets@sbl.org.uk The talk, which starts at 7.30pm, will be followed by an audience Q&A session with the author.

The Suffolk Book League, established in 1982, is a quite unique organisation which hosts a rolling literary festival. Further information about the League, including the benefits of membership, can be found at www.sbl.org.uk/

Opera & Ballet International presents an Ellen Kent production with international soloists, a highly-praised chorus and full orchestra Opera & Ballet International proudly presents an Ellen Kent production with international soloists, highly praised chorus and full orchestra.

PUCCINI LA BOHEME Introducing the international soprano Alyona Kistenyova as Mimi and starring Olga Perrier, the international French Soprano as Musetta Award-winning opera producer Ellen Kent brings one of the most romantic operas ever written to the stage in her new tour, traditionally staged featuring beautiful sets and costumes. The set reflects the Bohemian art of the period and will include a brass band, snow effects and Musetta’s dog will also make an entrance.

“Ellen Kent always includes extra touches and here we had a colourful carnival scene with street entertainers, a brass band, snow effects and a dog (very well behaved on the night).”

Bristol Post, 2013 Puccini’s masterpiece, La Boheme, is based on Henri Murger’s novel Scenes de la vie de boheme. Set in Paris, it focuses on the love between seamstress Mimi and poet Rodolfo.

The powerful and emotional La Boheme is the tragic tale of hopeless romance between the doomed, consumptive Mimi and penniless writer Rodolfo. After falling in love instantly, Rodolfo later leaves Mimi due to her flirtatious behaviour, although he wracked by guilt since their life together has probably worsened Mimi’s delicate constitution. In true tragic opera fashion, the pair reunite briefly at the end before Mimi dies.

Ellen said, “The scene when Mimi and Rodolfo meet and she sings They Call Me Mimi always makes me cry. It’s a lovely piece of music. I try to do opera that the audience can emotionally connect with, not just on a musical level but with the personal drama happening on the stage.”

This classic tale of Parisian love and loss features many famous arias including ‘Your Tiny Hand is Frozen’, ‘They Call Me Mimi’ and ‘Musetta’s Waltz’.

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

‘The best La Bohème I have ever seen’ JEREMY BRIEN, THE STAGE

Starring Alyona Kistenyova† as Mimi and Olga Perrier †, as Musetta.

Featuring Musetta’s dog, a brass band and snow effects.

Both operas sung in Italian with English surtitles.

Wed 26 April, 7.30pm Box Office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com 27

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TALON — The Best of Eagles Look on the Bright Side 20th Anniversary Tour with “Spamalot” Over the last two decades Talon have risen from humble beginnings to one of the most successful theatre touring shows in the UK and the ‘20th Anniversary Tour’ will once again feature all those classic ‘Eagles Greatest Hits’ from their timeless back catalogue including ‘Hotel California’, ‘Take It Easy’, ‘One Of These Nights’, Take It To The Limit, ‘Desperado’, ‘Lyin’ Eyes’, ‘Life In The Fast Lane’ and many more.

The Mercury Theatre Colchester are thrilled to announce the casting line-up for their first musical of the season, Eric Idle’s hysterical Monty Python masterpiece, Spamalot.

Lovingly ripped off from the hugely successful 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot is a riotous comedy full of misfit knights, killer rabbits, dancing nuns and ferocious Frenchmen.

We join King Arthur as he travels around the land gathering his Knights of the Round Table. This band of hapless adventurers are then tasked with a divine mission to locate the elusive Holy Grail – with uproarious consequences. With comic tunes including Brave Sir Robin, We’re Knights of the Round Table and perennial favourite Always Look on the Bright Side of Life, Spamalot audiences are sure to be dancing in the aisles.

This world-class seven-piece band are a phenomenon and have truly transcended the tag of ‘tribute’. They have become a brand name in their own right who are not only revered by their peers, respected by the music industry but dearly loved by their massive and expanding fan base that together have become a ‘family’.

In the summer of 2016 Talon were nominated in seven different categories by the ‘Agents Association of Great Britain’ at the ‘National Tribute Music Awards’ and winning ‘Official UK No. 1’ (Eagles tribute show), ‘Marketing & Pr’, ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ and the big one… ‘Best Band’ (in all categories). The ability of Talon to evolve and go from strength to strength in delivering bigger and better shows year on year continues once again with what promises to be an Event…

Talon will be performing at the Ipswich Regent Theatre on Saturday 6th May. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 433100 or visit www.ipswichregent.com

This show will have you singing along

Playing the irrepressible monarch of Camelot, King Arthur, is Bob Harms.

Bob has held roles in a number of West End musicals including Chicago, Footloose, Dirty Dancing and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Assisting him on his quest is Lady of the Lake, Sarah Harlington. Sarah is an old-hand in musical theatre, her roles include Kate Monster/Lucy in Avenue Q (UK Tour), Serena Katz in Fame (UK Tour) and Sally in Girlfriends (Union Theatre).

Panto favourite Dale Superville will be starring as the King’s loyal steed, Patsy, Dale has starred in numerous Made in Colchester productions and his credits at the Mercury include Idle Jack in Dick Whittington, Toad in Wind in the Willows, Wishee Washee in Aladdin and Centipede in James and the Giant Peach. Simon Shorten will also be returning following his Mercury Theatre debut last year as Pirelli in Sweeney Todd. Simon will be playing the brave knight Sir Lancelot, and his previous West End credits include first cover Val Jean in Les Miserables (Queen’s Theatre) and Artillery Man in War of the Worlds (Dominion Theatre).

Joining them on the hunt for the Holy Grail will be Marc Akinfolarin (The Color Purple, Jesus Christ Superstar and Assassins); John Brannoch (Cabaret, Chicago, Mamma Mia!, Matilda the Musical), Daniel Cane (Spamalot and Merrie England); Sally Frith (Mamma Mia! and Spend, Spend, Spend); Norton James (Love Story and Parade); Matthew Pennington (State Fair and Victor Victoria) and Gleanne Purcell-Brown (Bare and Sleeping Beauty).

Saturday 6th May

IPSWICH REGENT THEATRE Box Office 01473 433100

Spamalot will be directed by Daniel Buckroyd, Artistic Director of the Mercury Theatre Colchester.

Daniel said, “Spamalot is an incredible show, and we’re looking forward to giving it the Made in Colchester treatment. Selladoor will tour the production across the UK, a reflection of our ever-closer partnership. We’ve assembled a brilliantly talented cast of 11 performers, including some Mercury favourites.

Around half of the Colchester cast will tour, with casting currently under way for the remainder of the touring roles. Bring on the rehearsals!”

• Spamalot will play at the Mercury Theatre Colchester from Friday 21st April until Saturday 13th May. For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit www.mercurytheatre.co.uk or call 01206 573948.

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Another band announced More inventive drama for summer Forest Gig from Eastern Angles Clean Bandit have announced a special woodland gig as part of Forest Live, the summer concert series organised by the Forestry Commission.

Exciting theatre, combined with live music, all served up in the buzzy bar-room atmosphere of Isaac’s on the Quay – that’s what Ipswich-based theatre company Eastern Angles have got in store this Spring.

Eastern Angles are known for creating inventive theatre and their next show ‘The Strange Undoing of Prudencia Hart’ is no different. “Creating theatre with a ‘sense of place’ is what we do,” explains Artistic Director Ivan Cutting.

“Every now and again a script pops up that really tickles our fancy, one that it fun and exciting but set in another part of the country - Prudencia Hart was one of those scripts.”

Written by acclaimed writer David Greig, the play focuses on Pru, a young academic with a passion for folk music. As she travels to a conference in the Scottish Borders, the snow starts to fall, and she finds herself locked into a rowdy, remote pub. In this immersive, musical production the audience at each venue will share Prudencia’s story, seated among the action and swept along on magical adventure. This new production will tour to forty-five different locations across East Anglia including Isaacs pub on Ipswich Waterfont and the Sir John Mills Theatre.

Formed in Cambridge in 2008, Clean Bandit’s debut album ‘New Eyes’ included ‘Extraordinary’ (feat. Sharna Bass) and the No 1 smash hit ‘Rather Be’ (feat. Jess Glynne) a track that took the band into the international mainstream and gave them industry recognition with a Grammy Award for ‘Best Dance’ recording. Following on from this success, 2016 saw the release of two massive hit singles, ‘Tears’ (feat. Louisa Johnson) and ‘Rockabye’ (feat. Sean Paul & Anne-Marie). The latter’s popularity is reflected in playlist dominance and the formidable status of being No. 1 on the UK official singles chart for 9 consecutive weeks, the longest reign by a UK artist since 1994. It has been No. 1 in thirty countries around the world.

Forest Live is an independent programme organised by the Forestry Commission to bring forests to new audiences. Income generated from ticket sales is spent on protecting, improving and expanding England’s forests and woodlands and increasing their value to people and wildlife.

Over Forest Live’s 16 year history, money raised has contributed to a wide range of projects, from wildlife conservation to making improvements for visitors. With everything required for a great night out, including full catering and bar facilities, the gigs are renowned for their relaxed atmosphere.

Clean Bandit plus guests will be at Thetford Forest, near Brandon, Suffolk on Sunday 2nd July. Tickets £33 (plus £3.80 booking fee) are on sale now from the Forestry Commission Box Office on 03000 680400, or buy online at www.forestry.gov.uk/music

Director Hal Chambers says, “Having directed Eastern Angles’ production of Ragnarok at the Hush House in 2014, I will once again be bringing a few visual surprises to the good people of Suffolk. It’s going to be a night of spine-tingling shocks and tantalising thrills. I want people to grab themselves a drink, pull up a seat and enjoy an unforgettable experience.”

• The Strange Undoing of Prudencia Hart will tour from March 15th until May 27th. For more details of venues and tour dates visit: www.easternangles.co.uk or ring the Eastern Angles Box Office on 01473 211498.

They had a sound that had never been heard before. The Radio just could not get enough of them and neither can we. Join Big Girls Don’t Cry as we celebrate the music of four ordinary guys from New Jersey who changed the musical world as we knew it.

The show revives the beauty of harmonies that built and made the hits that flew through the charts in the 60s and 70s such as Sherry, December 1963 (Oh What a Night), Walk Like a Man, Rag Doll and Big Girls Don’t Cry. This super group sold over 100 million records worldwide - there’s a Four Seasons song that has a place in everyone’s heart.

Isaacs on the Quay/Sir John Mills Theatre, Ipswich

Join the boys in an all new show for 2017, for a musical night stacked with hits that will have you dancing in the aisles.

Box Office: 01473 211498

Big Girls Don’t Cry will be at the Ipswich Regent Theatre on Friday 5th May. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 433100 or visit www.ipswichregent.com

May 8th - 13th

www.easternangles.co.uk

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PRIZE COMP

Win a Dinner To Dine for Selection Box and really make your Special Night in Special!

2017 is witnessing a continuing change in entertainment habits as the hub of our social life becomes much more home based with people starting to wise up to the cost of going out.

Whether it’s harking back to days gone by, a change in work/life balance, simply due to finances or just spending some quality time at home, making the effort to cook and enjoying a night in is becoming the on-trend way to go.

Aware of this, Dinner To Dine For is back for a fourth year to inspire those Big Nights In! This is set to save you a whole pile of money, meaning athome treats can be enjoyed more often.

What better way to inspire a Big Night In than to win one of the Dinner To Dine For Selection Boxes. This year’s goodies are sponsored by some brilliant brands; · Kumala Reserve Wines- “Making the most of your Kumala time” · Pilgrims Choice Cheese- “Well Chosen” · L’OR Coffee- “Why Pursue anything less than Gold” · Bahlsen Choco Leibniz- “It’s not just a biscuit. It’s a Bahlsen”

The Dinner To Dine For RoadShow will be visiting over 40 Tesco Extra stores plus London Victoria and Waterloo mainline stations. Meeting people all over the country who are looking to treat themselves without having to go out or spend a fortune. Follow the fun of the RoadShow and get inspired on @dinner2dinefor #DinnerToDineFor for RoadShow and campaign updates or check out www.dinnertodinefor.co.uk

— COMPETITION —

Ipswich24 has got three Dinner To Dine For Selection Boxes to give away to three lucky winners to be in with a chance of winning this amazining prize just send your answer to the following question, along with your name, address and a daytime telephone number to: Dinner To Dine For Competition, Suite 9, 85 Dales Road, Ipswich, IP1 4JR or you can enter online at www.ipswich24.co.uk. The closing date for entries is Friday 28th April 2017.

Q. Can you name two of the brands that are sponsoring this years Dinner To Dine For Campaign?

Connells www.connellsipswich.co.uk info@connellsipswich.com 45 WOODBRIDGE ROAD EAST, IPSWICH IP4 5QN

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#LovingApril #PrimroseDay #TuesdayChild Reflections of Spring with Sue Hall It is one of my most favourite months of the year and I think it is because it is my birthday month! I was born on Primrose Day, 19th April.

Understandably you may be someone who has never heard of Primrose Day but it is the anniversary of the death of British statesman and Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, 1st Earl of Beaconsfield, on 19th April 1881. It sprang from a friendship between Disraeli and Queen Victoria and they were brought together through their patriotic love for their country.

Queen Victoria used to send him primroses regularly from Windsor or Osborne House.

People paid tribute to the statesman by wearing primroses. The bronze statue of Lord Beaconsfield in Parliament Square is decorated with primroses every year on the anniversary of his death and also his grave in Buckinghamshire.

What a lovely way to be remembered and I feel so lucky my birthday is on this day. I put flowers in vases much more at this time of year and that always makes me smile.

As does this old rhyme: Monday’s child is fair of face Tuesday’s child is full of grace, Wednesday’s child is full of woe, Thursday’s child has far to go, Friday’s child is loving and giving, Saturday’s child works hard for a living, But the child who is born on the Sabbath Day Is bonny and blithe and good and gay.

I always thought I should have been a Saturday child as I have been working hard all my life since the age of 16 but turns out I was born on a Tuesday - although anyone who has seen me cavorting round a dance floor might question I was full of grace!

No matter what day you were born or when, this is the month for Spring cleaning! If you don’t want to do that, we can of course provide vetted and insured cleaners to do your housework. All new clients that sign up for our regular weekly service can elect to receive a voucher for a studio or home photo shoot with the multiple award-winning Alex

Kilbee of www.museportraits.co.uk. The voucher includes a 7” framed print of your choice and the whole package is valued at £200. Promotion ends 7th July 2017. Terms and conditions apply.

If you have always wanted to have your loved ones professionally photographed, now you can do that AND get your housework done! Make 2017 a memorable year.

Book your cleaner on our website www. maid2clean.co.uk/suffolk - we will take it from there. Maid2Clean – here to help with your housework and to provide regular part-time work for local people Call free 0800 878 6388.

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This year’s National Gardening Week, running from 10th until 16th April 2017, will focus on ways to inspire home gardeners to gain new green skills as well as gain the many health benefits of growing plants and being active outdoors.

The four RHS Gardens are also joining in the National Gardening Week fun and will host a range of activities and projects from simple kitchen windowsill growing to container gardening, so that there is something to interest everyone.

The RHS is also encouraging organisations across Britain to get involved and hold their own events, from spring walks to gardening workshops.

Activities planned at the four RHS Gardens include: • Workshops and Q&A sessions with gardening experts will take place at all RHS Gardens throughout Easter • Sunday 9th April: across the four RHS Gardens, families will

be given plant cuttings to grow at home and there will also be demonstrations on how to grow a money plant from a single leaf • Thursday 13th April: visitors will be encouraged to bring along their house plants to a ‘Houseplant Hospital’ at RHS Gardens, where specialists will advise on the best remedies and solutions for treating poorly plants The aim of National Gardening Week is to raise awareness of the diversity, richness and cultural value of the UK’s gardens, and to inspire new visitors to experience and enjoy them.

• For more information visit www.nationalgardeningweek.org.uk

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Sell your home fast!

Aphela Enterprise Ltd are specialists in quick property selling/ purchasing solutions.

Enett from Aphela Enterprise Ltd is a specialist in this field, here she talks to Ipswich24 about herself and the service her company offers.

“I am a local property investor whose main aim is to provide a solution to your problem of releasing you of your property, so you can move on in the event you are struggling to sell your house.

As well as my acquired knowledge in property, I deal with people who need help every day in my medical profession. Helping people to get well and live a healthier lifestyle is my priority. Listening carefully to people’s problems helps me to work out the best solution for them. Likewise, in property investment, a listening ear, compassion and empathy, coupled with my expert knowledge and working with a team of experts, always produces great results and very satisfied clients.

You may ask, “Why would I want you to help me sell my property as opposed to using the local estate agent?” The answer – because I will be, to you, your solution company.

Often, circumstances in life change and upset the home comforts. People get so distressed when they are left with no other choice but to part with their homes. At such times when you find yourself under such pressure, not knowing what the best direction to take is, I, with my team of experts, can help you solve your property problems. We can work with you to find the best solution for whatever situation you might find yourself in, with the end of selling your house. We can find the best outcome for you and your family so you can move on and start afresh.

I am driven by a desire to help you out of your particular home-sale predicament by using my knowledge. The solution may be something I can provide directly, or perhaps I can offer recommendations and advice to lead you to alternative and better solution.”

• For more information about how Enett and her team at Aphela Enterprise Ltd can help you telephone 01473 675781 or visit www.ipswichhomebuyers.weebly.com

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Celebrity chefs bake up a storm Rick Stein, Tom Kitchin and Deliciously Ella are amongst the celebrity chefs to come together to encourage the nation to bake their favourite cake for Bowel Cancer UK’s fundraising campaign Be a Star, Bake a Cake.

This year Bowel Cancer UK, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary, is hoping more people than ever will hold a bake sale during Bowel Cancer Awareness Month in April and raise as much money as possible to help fund vital research and lifesaving work to stop bowel cancer. More than 44 people die from bowel cancer every day in the UK, it’s the nation’s second biggest cancer killer. However, it shouldn’t be. It’s treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.

Brian Turner, Eric Lanlard, Tom Aikens, the Hairy Bikers, Gennaro Contaldo, Deliciously Ella, Mark Greenaway, Tom Kitchin and Rick Stein have all whipped up their favourite recipes for the campaign.

Steph Mills, Community Fundraising Manager at Bowel Cancer UK says, “Whether you’re a whiz in the kitchen or if baking sends you into a tiz, our celebrity chef supporters have a recipe for you. Test your soufflé skills with a delicious Chocolate Orange Soufflé by the Hairy Bikers, make your chocolate brownies less devilish with Deliciously Ella’s sweet potato brownies or if you’re after indulgence, Tom Aikens chocolate cake will satisfy your sweet tooth. Then hold a cake stall, coffee morning or afternoon tea and invite your friends, family and colleagues to make a donation and sample the delicious treats”.

French pâtissier Eric Lanlard says, “I’m supporting Bowel Cancer UK’s Be a Star, Bake a Cake campaign as I’d like to raise awareness to stop bowel cancer – every 15 minutes in the UK someone is diagnosed with bowel cancer – let’s get baking and help spread the word!”

British chef, Brian Turner CBE, says, “Cook up a storm this April for Bowel Cancer Awareness Month! Treat your friends, family and work colleagues to your favourite homemade cake and raise awareness of bowel cancer.

Go for it!”

Full list of celebrity chefs and their recipes: • Brian Turner – Be a Star, Bake a Cake Cupcakes • Eric Lanlard – Lemon Meringue Cupcakes • Tom Aikens – Chocolate Cake • Hairy Bikers – Chocolate Orange Soufflé • Gennaro Contaldo – Pear & Chocolate Cake • Deliciously Ella – Sweet Potato Brownies • Mark Greenaway – Chocolate Marmalade Fondant • Mark Geenaway – Sticky Toffee Pudding Cupcakes • Brian Turner – Chocolate & Hazelnut Cake • Tom Kitchin – Carrot Cake Cupcakes • Rick Stein – Sunken Chocolate Cake • Wendi Peters – Lettuce, Raisin & Walnut Cake Your bake will make a real difference – sign-up here: bowelcanceruk.org.uk/ be-a-star,-bake-a-cake

New hospice retail centre open St Elizabeth Hospice officially opened its brand new retail centre in Martlesham Heath on Friday 24th March.

The new retail centre features a large shop, stocked with a range of men’s, women’s and children’s clothes and accessories, toys, entertainment and homeware. There is also a large warehouse for sorting donations made to the local charity.

If you have good quality items that you no longer use and would like to donate them to the hospice, the new retail centre can be found on Gloster Road, Martlesham Heath, IP5 3RD. If you would like to donate furniture, please don’t drop it off, just call 0845 259 0319 and the hospice will come and collect it from you.

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RSPB Wildlife Garden, Flatford

A delightful excursion for Spring Leave the car behind, wander down Tunnel Lane with the trees just coming into leaf overhead, become aware of the birdsong all around…

There is the glint of sunlight on water through the trees, and the curve of an old wooden bridge. An ancient thatched cottage peeps out from beneath its eaves, and suddenly the modern world recedes and you find yourself transported back 200 years. Walk down the hill and as you cross the old humpbacked wooden bridge, views which have not changed since Constable’s time open out in front of you. Wide flood meadows stretch westwards towards the spires of Dedham Church, punctuated by knarled willow pollards which bend over their reflection in the silvery Stour River. Thus begins your morning at Flatford, a tiny hamlet tucked into a corner of the Stour Valley, frozen in time…

There’s more than just history here, though. The RSPB runs a wildlife garden in Flatford as well – a place designed to show people how they can help with wildlife conservation within their own gardens, big or small. The garden aims to teach people how their choice of plants and management of their outdoor space can genuinely benefit wildlife such as bees, hedgehogs, butterflies, frogs and even struggling birds such as house sparrows and songthrushes. The RSPB owns over 300 000 acres of nature reserve in Britain, but gardens cover much more than this area, meaning there is huge potential for ordinary householders to really help our struggling wildlife.

The garden opens for the year on 1st April, when primroses and cowslips will be peeping in the apple orchard and the wildflower meadow,

daffodils will be turning their faces to the sun, and the blue tits will

even if it all they have space for is a window box full of thyme and chives for the bees!

The RSPB’s garden is open daily from 1st April between 10.30am and 4.30pm, and is free to enter.

Park in the National Trust car park at Flatford, (£4 all day), and save some space for cake at the Tea Room!

What’s on in the Easter Holidays:

be hatching their chicks in the nestboxes. Another main aim of the wildlife garden is to show children the magic that is nature – those first wonderful experiences are the ones that stay with us for a lifetime, enriching our lives and opening our eyes to the beauty that is around us. My love of nature began in the garden, where as a small child I would run barefoot in the morning dew, just exulting in the sunshine and the smell of damp earth and green grass… As a mother now myself, I am determined that my child will also have the opportunity to develop a love of nature and a joy in the outdoors. Who knows who is nurturing the next David Attenborough?!

So Flatford, although it may feel like it belongs to the past, also offers hope for the future – children growing up with a sense of wonder about the natural world around them, and people who are inspired by- and care for- the natural world,

There’s a free children’s nature trail round the garden daily, as well as other activities such as planting wildlife-friendly seeds to take home and grow, and hands-on activities for even the smallest children (donations gratefully received.) For the grown-ups, there are plenty of ideas to take home to your own gardens, as well as free plant lists, and seeds and inexpensive wildlife friendly plants to buy.

Shirley Sampson, Head Gardener Flatford Wildlife Garden

Plant Sale

A Plant Sale will be held at Seaton Road Methodist Church on Saturday 29th April from 10am until 12pm.

The plants, which will include perennials, some bedding plants if the weather has been suitable for them, alpines and maybe some tomato plants, will be supplied by Katie’s Garden Centre, so you can be assured of both quality and value for money. The proceeds will be for the Church and for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

There will be a book stall and a cake stall and refreshments will also be available.

The Plant Sale has now become an annual event and although it seems earlier this year it is still the Saturday of the Mayday Bank Holiday.

Those who came to the sale last year went away with lots of bargains, so why not come along this year and see what bargains you can find.

Toby’s Landscape Designs Wire / Metal Fencing & Gates, Wooden Fencing & Gates Garden Design and more Based in Barham

07476 797229 01473 832042

Tobyslandscapesanddesigns@outlook.com

A & A Groundworks Block Paving,Tarmac and Shingle Driveways and Patios.

Fencing and Garden Clearance, Shed Bases and Tree Work.

• Digger Hire available with driver Call Patrick Aldridge on 07985 303721 33

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wellbeing

Is your body ready for summer?

Spring is here and before long we will be enjoying warmer weather but are you and your body ready for it?

and Exercise classes could be just what you are looking for.

“You don’t have to be fit to come along to our classes and don’t worry if your co-ordination is not quite there.” Says Kay from Kay Fletcher Fitness. “We are very relaxed and have fun while working out and we will work with you so you can gradually build up your fitness as you lose the weight and before long you will wish you had have started sooner!

“We offer a confidential weigh-in, short nutritional talk and 45 minutes of group cardio exercise at our classes Monday to Thursday. We never discuss your weight with anyone other than you and when you have a slip up we are there to help you get back on it and would never judge you for it as we know how hard it can be.”

At Kay Fletcher Fitness you will not only get support and a great workout but also the chance to work out with like-minded people who have been in your shoes when they first started.

In fact, Kay is so sure you will like her classes that Kay Fletcher Fitness are happy to offer you your first class absolutely Free of Charge.

“Come and see what we can offer for yourself and you will be under no obligation to continue, although once you have seen what we offer we are pretty confident you will want to continue.” concludes Kay. To book your FREE place at one of Kay Fletcher Fitness classes please contact Kay on 01473 613397 or email kay@KayfletcherFitness.com and quote Ipswich24 - offer expires 27th April 2017

• Do your clothes feel too tight • Do you feel fat and frumpy • Do you want to lose weight and get fit but dread the thought of the gym • Do you like the idea of being in a support group of like-minded people If you answered Yes to any of the above then why not give Kay Fletcher Fitness a try?

FIRST CLASS FREE!!

Whether you have a few stubborn pounds to lose or several stone – Kay Fletcher Fitness can help you.

They offer weight support and nutritional advice along with a fun filled exercise class and they don’t do lycra and perfection they do Fitness Friendship and Fun! If you are looking for support on your weight loss journey where you will not get judged but offered real sound advice then Kay Fletcher Fitness Weigh-in

Book your FREE place now – Contact Kay Fletcher Fitness on 01473 613397 or email kay@kayfletcherfitness.com Quote Ipswich24 – Offer expires 27th April 2017

Class Timetable: MONDAY Greshams Sports & Social Club Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, IP4 3QJ 6:15 – 7:30 pm (Cardio Workout) TUESDAY Greshams Sports & Social Club Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, IP4 3QJ 9:30 – 10:45 am (Cardio Workout) Kesgrave High School Main Road, Kesgrave, Ipswich, IP5 2PB 5:45 – 7:15 pm (Cardio Workout)

TUESDAY - continued Chantry Academy Community Use Facilities (formerly Chantry High School) Mallard Way, Ipswich, Sufolk 7:00 - 8:15pm (Cardio Workout) WEDNESDAY Tower Hall, 5 Broadlands Way, Rushmere St Andrew, Ipswich, IP4 5SU 09:15 – 10:30 am (Cardio Workout) 10:30 – 11:45 am (Zumba®) Greshams Sports & Social Club Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, IP4 3QJ 5:45 – 7:15 pm (Cardio Workout) 7:15 – 8:30 pm (Cardio Workout)

THURSDAY Kesgrave Community Centre Twelve Acre Approach, Bell Lane, Kesgrave, Ipswich, IP5 1JF 9:30 – 10:45 am (Cardio Workout) Kesgrave High School Main Road, Kesgrave, Ipswich, IP5 2PB 6:30 – 7:45 pm (Zumba®) St. Albans Catholic High School Digby Rd, Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 3NJ 6:45 – 8:00 pm (Cardio Workout)

Exercise Only Option Available at All Classes

Courses Fitness Pilates: Mondays at Foxhall Community Hall, (ex St. Clements Social Club) 9.45 am - 10.30 am and at

St. Alban’s School, 8.00 - 8.45 pm

HIIT

(High Intensity Interval Training) Wednesdays at Kesgrave High School (Sports Hall), 6.45 - 7.15 pm (registration at 6.30)

For details of up and coming Courses see the website

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Club open to those with Put your feet out in front physical disabilities Ipswich St Raphael Club was started in 1967. The brain-child of Mr and Mrs Tillott, many friends help raise funds to start the Club.

The original Club was help at Ipswich High School, and after many years of fundraising and generous bequests, the Club was able to procure the premises, with the wonderful facilities, that they have today.

The idea behind the Club is to help people with physical disabilities to both meet and enjoy activities with other like-minded people and to spend times with friends.

The St Raphael Club has a programme on Tuesdays and Thursdays, on alternate weeks, where Club members can meet and participate in various activities, such as carpet bowls, darts, board games, flower arranging, bingo and crafts of various kinds. There are also computers with games installed and the Club has a very willing computer man to assist and help those who would like to get organised in this new digital age.

The St Raphael Club also arranges trips to various beauty spots and, have an annual Barbecue in July at the club, with entertainment, which all seem to enjoy! Other trips have included a visit to Waldringfield and a visit to ‘The Hut’ in Felixstowe, where members enjoyed a fish and chip lunch. The trips are run by the Club, where they arrange transport at a reduced cost.

The St Raphael Club is looking for new members to join in the fun and friendship. They would like to invite disabled Ex-service men and women to join them, to share their experiences of life, and where new ideas may spring from the needs of this group of people.

The St Raphael Club is staffed by volunteers and so the Club are also always on the look out for new people to volunteer their time and join them and sahre their new ideas.

• For more information about the St Raphael Club you can contact David Tilott on 01473 677054.

26% of British Primary School Children are Sexting Shocking new research suggests that over 1.8 million of primary school kids, ages six to 11, have sent sexually explicit messages on apps such as Facebook and Snapchat.

The same study found a further fifth have received rude or risky messages or even sexually explicit photographs.

Beautiful Bare Feet is a local, award winning business that services the foot health needs of the community.

The qualified Foot Health Practitioners at Beautiful Bare Feet can treat many diverse facets of foot problem including skin and nail disorders, corns, calluses, hammertoe, hard skin, verrucae, ingrown toe nails and infections.

Treatments start from just £18.50 and are personalised to the individual needs of every client.

Direct consultations with Beautiful Bare Feet’s Foot Health Practitioners involve a clinical history, physical examination and the preparation of a treatment plan. In addition, they offer foot health education regarding self-care techniques. Their specialist clinicians can recommend appropriate footwear and, if required, orthotic devices to fit into the shoe and alleviate discomfort.

Beautiful Bare Feet is proud to play an important role in maintaining the mobility of many elderly and disabled members of the community. They offer a regular home visit service to those less mobile and this guarantees the promotion of foot health to those with circulation problems and diabetes. As trained Foot Health Practitioners, they contribute to the health of the populace through the referral of specific conditions to other practitioners and enhanced clinical care is also facilitated through collaborative relationships with other care providers including local residential care homes.

Although Beautiful Bare Feet’s primary focus is the ongoing foot care of the community, the ancillary services that they offer have also proved extremely popular. In particular the massage therapies and nail treatments and polishing offered by their resident beauty therapist are always highly in demand.

As a relative novice to the business arena, Beautiful Bare Feet was humbled to receive the highly regarded accolade of “Newcomer of the Year” for 2016 from the “All About Ipswich” Association. The proprietor of Beautiful Bare Feet, Evette Laidlow believes that personalised service, attention to detail and competitive rates have ensured the initial success of the business.

Beautiful Bare Feet

Despite these alarming stats, two thirds of parents are not worried about what their children could be exposed to on their smart devices. Almost a fifth of parents do not monitor what their children do online at all.

Data revealed girls were more likely to be caught sexting, with one in six sending rude messages, compared to just one in twenty boys.

Mobile phone insurance firm Row. co.uk commissioned the research, which revealed that almost half of six to eleven-year-olds have been exposed to foul language online. On average, parents said they planned to speak with their kids about online security when they were nine. But the fresh findings suggest that one in six children had already been exposed to harmful materials by the time they reached that age.

When asked about what apps parents were most concerned about their child using, Facebook was listed as the most worrying with 42 per cent expressing concern. Facebook was followed by Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook Messenger and YouTube as the most worrisome apps.

Meanwhile online platforms such as Xbox, PlayStation and Minecraft were amongst the least concerning. The survey also found that the average parent planned to speak with their child about sex at age ten.

10-12 Orwell Place, Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 1BB Phone: 01473 805180

Email: EvettesBareFeet@gmail.com Website: www.BeautifulBareFeet.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/BareFeet1

Worryingly, seven per cent of parents admitted they aren’t planning on speaking to them about sex at all, that number jumped to ten per cent when just asking dads.

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Who can resist chocolate and sweet treats at Easter?

The Easter bunny is on his way laden with chocolate, sweets, hot cross buns and other sweet treats and at this time of the year it’s hard to resist.

But Malcolm Harbour, the principal dentist at Harbour Dental Care in Ipswich, reminds us that sugar is not just bad for our waistlines.

Instead of saying don’t eat anything sugary, Malcolm has provided some helpful facts and tips to help protect our teeth over the Easter festivities.

means our teeth are exposed to sugar more frequently. Of course, we don’t suggest eating them all in one go! Treat yourself after a meal and then give your teeth a long break to help them recover from an acid attack.

• Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly to check for decay and to make sure you are cleaning your teeth properly.

Facts • It’s not how much sugar we eat, it’s how long it’s on our teeth that counts.

• Sugar + plaque germs = TOOTH DECAY. • It takes our teeth at least 45 minutes to recover from every sugar attack.

Malcolm also advises us to brush our teeth twice a day for a minimum of two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. We should brush our teeth before we go to bed and at one other time during the day.

Tips • Keep sweet treats to mealtimes.

• Eat them up - don’t hoard! Having one or two chocolates throughout the day

When to start brushing Our advice is start early! As soon as your baby’s first tooth appears introduce them to a toothbrush and toothpaste. Children up

to three years old should use a toothpaste with a fluoride level of at least 1,000ppm (parts per million), after that we should all use toothpaste that contains 1,350ppm 1,500ppm. Children should use a pea-sized amount on their toothbrush and babies just a smear.

Our teeth are precious The best teeth we will ever have are our own, which is why we promote a preventive approach through regular examinations and hygiene treatments.

Our door is always open to new patients.

Please give our friendly team a ring for more information. We look forward to hearing from you.

Harbour Dental Care 27 High Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 3QH 01473 253599 www.harbourdentalcare.co.uk

Regular visits are vital Reduce the risks of over-indulgence this Easter...

Book a combined dental and hygiene appointment today. Now £83!* Gentle dental care

Preventive approach

Welcoming team

Thorough hygiene therapy *Quote ‘Ips24’ when booking. Offer ends 31.06.17. Full price is £108.

01473 253599

27 High Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 3QH

www.harbourdentalcare.co.uk

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Think you have IBS?

Spring into Spring with Martin Wilks, C.Psychol.

I am writing this piece just a couple of days after our spring mindfulness day retreat at Otley Hall. It was an interesting gathering made up of people from the two current eight-week training groups that are coming to an end, and people who have worked with me before using the mindfulness approach one person from back in 2003!

Find Out For Sure Before Starting a Treatment (IBS), you might be tempted to try treating your symptoms on your own. But, self-treatment can delay effective treatment.

Talking to your doctor can put you on the right track and avoid needless suffering.

The most important first step in treating IBS is a confident diagnosis of the condition. A physician can generally make the diagnosis of IBS based on its symptoms along with a history, physical exam, and limited tests.

The main symptom of IBS is chronic abdominal pain or discomfort, typically experienced along with a change in stool frequency and/or form – diarrhea and/or constipation. The pain is often relieved by having a bowel movement and can at times be worsened after eating.

Complicating this, symptoms can flare-up unexpectedly and can change over time or from day to day. Other symptoms may also occur, such as bloating, gas, or urgency. The symptoms, coupled with the uncertainty and fluctuation, can significantly impair quality of life for those that are affected.

“A health provider who understands IBS will work with patients to address individual needs,” said Nancy J. Norton, president of the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD). “That means not only reducing individual symptoms, but also arming patients with education and self-management tools that will improve their daily living.”

While there is no cure for IBS, once diagnosed, the most effective treatment choices to reduce symptoms can begin. Working closely with physicians helps individuals to learn as much as possible about IBS, find out what triggers their symptoms and what may work to alleviate them.

Treatment or management choices, often used in combination, will depend on severity of the symptoms and the impact on quality of life. Examples include lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, gut-directed hypnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medications.

April is IBS Awareness Month. If you think you may have IBS, see your doctor and get an accurate diagnosis. Then work together on a treatment plan that best fits your needs.

About IFFGD The International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) is a nonprofit education and research organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people affected by chronic digestive conditions. Founded in 1991, IFFGD helps improve care by enhancing awareness, educating individuals, and supporting research into treatments and cures for GI disorders. Learn how you can help at www.iffgd.org or by contacting IFFGD.

To advertise in the WELLBEING section call Abi on 01473 351270

Mind Body and Spirit Fayre 8th April 10am-4pm

At the Martlesham Community Centre Suffolk IP1 24PB

We were blessed with good weather and were able to take advantage of the beautiful natural surroundings. The first half of the day is in silence and this really contributes by helping us get deeper into continuous mindfulness meditation practice. After lunch however I like to make opportunities for the group to explore topics of importance. We explored “how human beings treat each other”.

I was reminded of a book I read in the mid-90s as I was completing my training charter ship with the British psychological Society. Its title “100 years of therapy and the world is still getting worse”; it was written by two eminent analysts/therapists. But a bit of a disturbing title for somebody preparing to commit his working life to this very 20th-century phenomenon ” therapy”! It turned out that it was as much a critique of contemporary society as it was a criticism of therapy. But in it they described the behavioural attitudes of the San Francisco bus driver - his relentlessly cheerful, warm, and inclusive banter to his passengers as they came and went.

They suggest that this kind of activity is potentially as helpful as therapy in a world of loneliness and loss of genuine person to person connection. Now I know that this is working at the lighter end of human needs – and I’ve just finished a supervision session with a colleague this morning recognising that she has been working heroically with profound issues of life and death, trauma, loss of hope and meaning – in the way of a high priestess or a sage of previous ages. But this, more accessible, lighter touch all adds up – and what goes around, comes around.

We can all work to develop an attitude of ‘loving kindness’ – indeed we do just that on a mindfulness course. By learning some formal practices - to touch in to on a daily basis – we then become more likely to reach for those attitudes when a chance presents itself in daily life.

It costs us nothing to share a smile, or to offer a kind word towards a young Mum who’s close to losing her patience with her toddler – in fact it gives us a buzz when our efforts seem to hit the spot. Moreover, the initiative accumulates – it tends to be passed on own the line of human connections.

Something of a counterbalance to the all too contagious feelings of fear, alienation, otherness that impact us from every screen we put before our eyes countless times a day.

May all beings be happy.

Flexible Phsychological Solutions Mindfulness & Values based: Psychotherapy, CBT, Coaching & Mediation

Individuals, Couples & Groups

Martin Wilks, C.Psychol.

Live life as it is; make it how you will Have a meal, and a cuppa, chat with Friends Catering to your needs All Day

Tel: 07950 802613

martin@martinwilks.com | www.martinwilks.com 37

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Prostate Cancer Tests Do you want to risk being one of 11,000 men who die every year in this country from prostate cancer that is detected too late? Do you want your husband, brother or father to be one of them?

Many men with prostate cancer have no symptoms in the early stages and the only way to detect it is to be tested. If it is detected early the prostate cancer can be very successfully treated.

Many men diagnosed with prostate cancer will have a slow-growing cancer that will not develop enough to become a problem during their lifetimes so that they will not require any further treatment. The best course of action for them will be just to have it monitored at regular intervals.

There are arguments both for and against testing for prostate cancer but the above facts are undeniable.

The East Suffolk Prostate Cancer Support Group recommends that every man between the ages of 45 (40 for men with a close relative who has had prostate or breast cancer) and 75 to either ask their GP for a test or to come along to their next testing session where a NHS Urologist will answer any questions you may have before you are tested. (Note: GPs will generally test men over 50 but the East Suffolk Prostate Cancer Support Group will test men over 45. Some GPs may not agree to test men without symptoms.)

The test consists of a small blood sample that is taken from your arm by a trained phlebotomist. The sample is then analysed in a NHS laboratory and the Urologist will write to you to explain your result and advise whether you should take any further action.

FREE PROSTATE CANCER TEST FOR MEN AGED 45-75 cancer is the most common cancer • Prostate in men

cancer can be successfully treated if • Prostate detected in time but many men have no symptoms in the early stages men die every year in the UK because • 11,000 their prostate cancer was detected too late

THE EAST SUFFOLK PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

Invite you to come along for a Blood Test Thursday 27th April, 6.30pm to 8.30pm

at The Gresham Sports Club, 312 Tuddenham Road, Ipswich IP4 3QJ

Bring a Friend!

All tests are carried out by medically qualified staff and overseen by a doctor.

A small blood sample is taken from your arm.

Sleep Walking Britain: are we a nation of zombies?

6 steps to a good night’s sleep Are you tossing and turning through the night and feel like a zombie in the morning, when your alarm goes off? This is an on-going trend for us Brits, according to new research suggesting that more than one in three of us don’t get enough sleep.

To encourage more shuteye, Ipswich24 has spoken with our experts for their top tips to help us eat and drink our way to a better night’s sleep.

1. Choose coconut water Try drinking a glass of pure coconut water in the evening to encourage a restful night’s sleep. “Coconut water is an excellent source of ‘electrolyte’ minerals: potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and sodium.

Balanced levels of these minerals are necessary to maintain normal muscle action, nerve function and hydration in our body. Deficiencies or imbalances may cause cramping and restless legs at night, and therefore disturbed sleep,” says Shona Wilkinson, Nutritionist at Superfooduk.com.

2. Change your sleep cycle with cherries “Cherries have been found to contain small amounts of melatonin, the hormone that regulates our sleep cycles. Although all cherries may contain some melatonin, tart ‘Montmorency’ cherries in particular have been found in a clinical trial to increase the body’s melatonin levels and increase sleep time,” says Cassandra Barns, Nutritionist.

3. Try Turkey for a better sleep “Turkey is often said to be a sleep-promoter, as it contains good levels of tryptophan, the amino acid that converts into serotonin and then melatonin in our body. However, tryptophan is not the only constituent that makes turkey worth mentioning: it is also a good source of zinc and vitamin B6 – ‘cofactors’ that help the body to produce melatonin from tryptophan. However, have your turkey earlier in the day, as a large serving of meat or other highprotein food late in the evening may stop you falling asleep,” says Shona.

4. Opt for oatcakes “If you regularly wake in the middle of the night, especially if it’s suddenly and your head is racing, have a small snack of complex carbohydrates, such as an oatcake about an hour before bed. This will prevent your blood sugar levels from dropping during the night,” explains Dr. Marilyn Glenville, author of Natural Alternatives to Sugar, www.marilynglenville.com.

5. Boost your sleep with brown rice “You may not think you need much energy while you’re asleep, but your brain and body still need glucose to keep working. If levels fall too low, this can cause the release of the hormones adrenaline and cortisol, which can wake you up. To avoid this, make sure you have some slow-releasing carbohydrates in the evening, such as a serving of brown rice with your evening meal,” advises Shona.

6. Prep your body for sleep with porridge “If you have your last meal a long time before going to bed, try eating a half-size bowl of porridge later in the evening. Again, this will help keep the levels of sugar (glucose) in your blood stable, and so provide your body with sustained energy,” says Shona.

£5 from every repair donated to charity

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Local Clinical Dental Technician providing a full Denture Service in Ipswich and surrounding areas.

We can offer you a number of services including:-

● Same day denture repairs while you wait ● New Dentures by appointment ● Full denture service ● And much more

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DENTURE REPAIRS WH ILE YOU WAIT!

Call us now on 01473 716226 or 07789 071536 Open 7 days a week including evenings and weekend

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Calls on all drivers to Be Phone Smart as mobile law gets tougher With new, tougher penalties for illegal handheld phone use that came in to force at the beginning of March, the RAC is encouraging drivers to make a personal commitment to stick within the law and keep the roads safer for everyone with the launch of BePhoneSmart.uk.

BePhoneSmart.uk has the backing of a wide range of organisations and initiatives including the National Police Chiefs’ Council, the Government’s THINK! campaign, IAM RoadSmart, the Road Haulage Association, Road Safety GB, Transport Scotland, RED Driving School and a number of UK police forces. Drivers can quickly and easily make an online pledge including, if they choose, creating a photo of themselves that they can then share on social media.

In pledging to Be Phone Smart, drivers make a promise to: • Never use a handheld phone when driving or while stopped in traffic • Commit to keeping their focus firmly on the road ahead, for everyone’s safety • Tell their friends, their family and other people they know they have made the promise – and ask them to do the same The pledge website is central to a campaign to encourage every driver to Be Phone Smart in order to end the epidemic of handheld phone use that currently afflicts the country. The RAC hopes that organisations will get behind the initiative that aims to put personal responsibility at the heart of changing driver behaviour.

Recent figures revealed that a startling 26% of drivers admitted to checking texts, emails and social media while driving, rising to 47% while stopped but with the engine still running. A fifth (19%) said they text or post messages while driving, and 14% said they take photo and video. 31% admit to using a handheld phone for phone calls while driving, which goes up to 48% when stopped.

RAC road safety spokesman Pete Williams said, “We recognise that tackling a problem as complex as the UK’s mobile phone one was going to require a huge amount of effort. Tougher laws, as introduced today, combined with targeted enforcement by police forces and a sustained package of education telling drivers about the risks of driving distracted are all crucial.

“At the same time, encouraging motorists to take personal responsibility for their actions – and to really think about the relationship they have with their smart phone when they get in the driver’s seat – needs to be at the heart of a campaign to change their behaviour.

“We created BePhoneSmart.uk so that drivers can take a positive step by committing to not using a handheld phone – quite simply, to make an online promise to keep within the law, to keep their focus on the road ahead, and to share the message on to other people that they know.

“Choosing to use a handheld phone at the wheel is a personal decision, and so is choosing to give up the habit. The more individual drivers, businesses and other organisations we can get making the promise, the greater motivation others will have to change their behaviour – and together the roads can be made a safer place.”

Sarah Sillars, IAM RoadSmart chief executive officer, said, “With over 86% of UK motorists telling us that distraction caused by mobile phones has become worse in the last three years, the RAC’s Be Phone Smart campaign

is a welcome solution that every driver should sign up to. It is important that the Government, road safety bodies and car makers work together to allay the fear caused by distracted drivers.

“Recent tragic high profile cases underline the need for a combination of education, safer design and enforcement to make sure that our constantly connected society does not prove to be a threat to the safety of all road users.”

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Roads Policing, Chief Constable Suzette Davenport said, “Across this week officers will continue to use innovative and intelligence-led tactics to catch and penalise people who are driving while distracted by a mobile phone. However, this is an attitudinal problem that we cannot simply enforce away by putting more officers on the roads.

“This issue has to begin with personal responsibility by drivers. We know that people are more likely to report other drivers using a phone than to view themselves as guilty of it. That has to change.

“Tougher penalties are a step in the right direction, but police forces and partners are working this week to make it socially unacceptable to use a mobile phone at the wheel. It’s about more than what you might have to pay as a penalty – you could hurt or kill an innocent person on the roads by checking a text or taking a call.

“Don’t do it – and don’t let others take the risk either.”

Drivers can make a promise today to Be Phone Smart by visiting www.bephonesmart.uk

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519 London Road Ipswich Suffolk IP2 0ST 39

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Mental block ahead: motorists stumped by road signs and rules of the road

Everyone’s experienced a back-seat driver and there’s been many an in-car argument over who’s right when it comes to which lane the driver should be in, whether they’re going too fast or too slow, how close they are to the vehicle in front and whether they obeyed ‘that’ road sign or not.

To put an end to the arguments DrivingTestSuccess.com, the UK’s No. 1 brand of learner driver revision software and Apps, tasked drivers with a series of mock multiple choice Theory Test questions.

They asked new drivers with up to three years’ experience, seasoned drivers with three to 13 years’ on the road and drivers with over 14 years’ experience under their tyres.

Over half (52%) of all respondents mistakenly identified a sign for ‘No Motor Vehicles’ to mean the exact opposite, selecting ‘Cars & Motorcycles Only’.

Drivers with three to 13 years’ experience performed the worse on this question with only three out of 10 (28%) getting the answer right.

It seems similarity between signs causes confusion. Almost half (48%) of new drivers and four out of ten (43%) seasoned drivers mistook the sign for a ‘Concealed Level Crossing’ to mean ‘End of Motorway’ or ‘End of Dual Carriageway’ instead. Experienced drivers performed the best with six out of ten (64%) getting the answer right.

Seven out of ten (70%) drivers across all levels of experience failed to recognise the sign for ‘End of Restricted Parking Area’, with 40% of drivers with three to 13 years’ and over 14 years’ experience mistaking it to mean ‘End of Restricted Speed Area’ instead.

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A. C. AUTOPARTS

Two out of ten (20%) drivers across all levels of experience failed to recognise the sign for ‘No Overtaking’. Four out of ten drivers (36%) with less than three years’ and more than 14 years’ on the road didn’t know that a warning sign would be found in a red triangle, mistaking it to be an ‘order’ instead.

The question that stumped all drivers the most was ‘Where can you find reflective amber studs on a motorway?’ Three quarters (75%) of respondents didn’t know it’s ‘On the Right Hand Edge of the Carriageway’.

All drivers should know to leave a safe gap between them and the vehicle in front, yet one in ten (10%) seasoned and experienced drivers are probably driving too close as they thought that 34 metres / 112 feet was the stopping distance for a car travelling at 50mph, when in fact it’s 54% further at 53 metres / 175 feet. The safest drivers are those who’ve been driving for over 14 years’ as six in 10 (64%) thought that 63metres / 207 feet was the correct stopping distance.

Results also showed that newer drivers are more cautious on the roads with just 2% admitting to receiving penalty points or going to a speed awareness course, in comparison to 30% of those with 3 – 13 years’ and over 14 years’ experience who had been caught speeding.

Twice as many men had been caught speeding compared to women (30% versus 16%) and of all those that had been found speeding, almost half (44%) admitted they knew they were breaking the law but just didn’t spot the speed camera! While 37% said they didn’t know what the speed limit for the road was.

A

B

C

D

In questions around car maintenance and safety results found that almost half (48%) of those with 6-13 years’ experience, and one third (33%) of those with over 13 years’ experience, said they wouldn’t know how to check if they had a safe level of hydraulic brake fluid – compared to eight out of ten (84%) new drivers who said they would know. Almost half (47%) of drivers with over 14 years’ experience didn’t know the correct tread depth for road-worthy tyres is 1.6mm, compared to 21% of new drivers.

The results showed that drivers with less than three years’ experience got the highest proportion of correct answers (54%) on the multiple choice questions, followed by drivers with three to 13 years’ (30%). Drivers with over 14 years’ on the road collectively scored the worse answering just 16% of the multiple choice questions correctly.

When it came down to gender, males got the highest amount of correct answers on 85% of the questions compared to just 15% for females.

Emma Bagnall, brand manager for DrivingTestSuccess.com, said: “Unfortunately too many of us are on auto-pilot when we drive. We don’t take notice of the signs that we pass on a daily basis and we seem to ‘forget’ the rules of the road that we learnt to keep us safe”

WOODBRIDGE 01394 388341 18 OLD BARRACK ROAD, WOODBRIDGE

www.drivingtestsuccess.com ANSWERS: A: No Stopping; B: No motor vehicles; C: Minimum Speed Limit; D: T-Junction with priority over vehicles from the right

FREE PARKING • OPEN MON-SAT 9-6; SUN 10-1

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Used car of the month BMW 520d M Sport (2010-)

Head of Valuation Services at My Car Check, Gavin Amos, said, “The BMW 5 Series sometimes gets overlooked by used buyers who presume they’re out of reach in terms of both purchase price and running costs.

However, the 520d is surprisingly frugal and servicing costs aren’t as scary as many think. There are always plenty of good examples available and it’s worth seeking out those with full BMW main dealer service history, as this helps with desirability and value come resale time. In true BMW style, the chassis is great, particularly in its sporty M Sport guise, and if it’s boot space you’re after, consider the Touring estate versions. Of all the 520d M Sport models we checked last year, 24.97% had been previously written-off, 10.81% were still on finance and none were listed as stolen.”

‘Not indicating’ voted the most inconsiderate driving behaviour Nearly six in 10 (58%) of drivers surveyed said not signalling clearly, or failing to indicate at all, was their top inconsiderate action at the wheel, ahead of hogging the middle lane of a motorway (56%) and driving too close to the car in front, which was voted for by more than half (51%).

The next most popular answers in the top five driving behaviours that cause other motorists the greatest angst were: getting angry with other drivers (46%) and selfish parking (45%).

Almost all drivers surveyed described themselves as being a courteous and considerate driver – only 1% didn’t – but they believe that poor driving is an all-too-common sight on the nation’s roads with only 4% saying they were unlikely to see any thoughtless behaviour on a typical half-hour drive.

While every driver polled by RAC Insurance thought it was important to show consideration for other road users nearly half (46%) didn’t know that ‘being considerate’ is actually mentioned in the Highway Code.

On learning that the Highway Code states: ‘Be considerate. Be careful of and considerate towards all types of road users, especially those requiring extra care’, nearly two-thirds (64%) said in that case ‘most drivers need to re-read it’.

Interestingly though, when motorists were asked to say what makes a courteous and considerate driver the greatest proportion – seven in 10 (69%) – cited ‘always saying thank you to drivers that let them out of a junction giving way to them’. Six in 10 (59%) felt it was slowing down when passing horses and half (49%) said giving cyclists plenty of space. Indicating clearly was the fourth most popular response (48%), but quite a long way ahead of ‘leave plenty of distance behind the car in front’ which was named by 40% of respondents.

Used bike of the month Kawasaki ZX6R (2005-2006)

On the motorbike, scooter and moped sector, My Car Check’s Mark Field said, “Equally at home on the road or the track, the 2005 Kawasaki ZX6R was the first Ninja to switch to Showa suspension. It came with petal discs, a slipper clutch and lap timer as standard, and had a great engine making 115bhp at the rear wheel. The extra 36cc made a big difference to the midrange performance but do your homework as many carry battle scars. Of all the Kawasaki Zx6 models we checked last year, 19.58% had been previously written-off.”

As to market trends, Field said, “With spring just around the corner, the new plate in March and some fantastic PCP finance offers, dealers tell us that footfall and enquiry levels are starting to increase. As such, we expect both new and used bike sales to really pick up over the next few weeks.”

With information from the police, DVLA, insurers and finance houses, My Car Check holds comprehensive data on every vehicle on UK roads – things that buyers should be aware of before making an offer.

For further details, download the free Making Better Used Car Choices report, including profiles of the top five most-searched makes - Ford, Vauxhall, VW, BMW and Audi at www.mycarcheck.com

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200 Ranelagh Road, Ipswich, IP2 0AQ 01473 257401 41

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All jobs undertaken, Domestic Commercial Industrial For a no fee, no obligation quote call: 01449 672389 or 0790 9878332 or email us at dgfgroundworks@hotmail.com

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IPSWICH24 COMPETITION RULES & CONDITIONS: The editor’s decision will always be final. No competition entry will be entered into. Ipswich24 cannot be held responsible for cancellation of events (in the event of cancellation no transfer will be offered or cash alternative). We cannot be held responsible for failure of entries not arriving by deadline. There is no cash alternative to any prize. If you send entries for several competitions in one envelope, each competition must be on a separate postcard with the answer and your details, including a contact telephone number (failure to do this will result in your entry not being included).

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e n u er J n w h o t r 4 u o y y a & d lead n u S your

b a r G

CHARITY

MUTT STRUT

A fantastic day out for dogs and their owners.

NO DOG? No problem, just come along for the walk.

Organised by the Lions Club of Ipswich – www.lionsclubofipswich.org.uk

Part of the SUFFOLK WALKING FESTIVAL 0417_ips24_April.indd 44

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